National Arts and Crafts Fair 2024 (October 23-27, 2024)

This event is close to my heart because it goes beyond celebrating the ingenuity of Filipinos—it is a tribute to the hardworking artisans, Indigenous communities, community-based MSMEs, Schools of Living Traditions, and our Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan awardees who bring our rich Filipino heritage to life. Each handcrafted item and handwoven fabric you will find in the fair tells a story of passion, dedication, and love for our culture and traditions.

Since we launched this fair in 2016, I have been committed to supporting these talented individuals—helping them access new markets, sustain their livelihoods, and preserve the traditions that define who we are as a nation. Their success is our success.

By supporting their work, we’re not just buying products; we’re helping uplift lives, nurture Filipino craftsmanship, and keep our culture alive for generations to come.

My heartfelt thanks to the distinguished guests who graced the opening of the NACF, including DOT Secretary Christina Frasco, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, NCCA Executive Director Eric Zerrudo, CCC Secretary Robert Borje, Malaysian Ambassador Melvin Castelino, Singaporean Ambassador Constance See, Greek Ambassador Ioannis Pediotis, Thai Ambassador Tull Traisorat, and National Artist Alice Reyes. I am also proud to acknowledge the presence of the mayors from my home province of Antique.

The NACF will run from October 23 to 27, 2024, at the Megatrade Halls 1-3, 5th Level, Mega B, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. This is a project I conceptualized and supported in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).