By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY – Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson expressed optimism that this year’s sales at the 38th Negros Trade Fair (NTF) will exceed last year’s figures.
Lacson led the blessing of various booths and the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, marking the official opening of the 38th NTF, which runs until September 22, 2024, at Glorietta 2 Activity Center, Makati City.
The governor noted that the number of exhibitors had increased to 115 this year, compared to 80 last year, comprising various companies and local government units (LGUs).
Exhibitors from Negros Oriental also grew in number, doubling from four to eight, including the provincial government of Negros Oriental.
“We are excited because we have more exhibitors this year, and we are hopeful that they will achieve higher sales than last year,” Lacson said.
Last year’s sales reached ₱40 million.
Lacson also highlighted the success of the “Arima” event during the Governor’s Night on Tuesday.
“Arima” is a traditional gathering of sugarcane workers before planting and harvesting.
The evening started with a tribute to the late Governor Daniel Lacson Jr., known as the “father of the Negros Trade Fair.”
Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Makati Mayor Abby Binay, Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Association of Negros Producers (ANP) officials led by Michael Edward Claparols, and Negros Island representatives Mercedes Alvarez (6th district), Alfredo Marañon III (2nd district), and Jocelyn Limkaichong (1st district, Negros Oriental), as well as several mayors from Negros Occidental, were also in attendance.
Governor Lacson emphasized that the 38th Negros Trade Fair continues to promote products from former New People’s Army rebels through the Balik Salig Program, a partnership between the provincial government of Negros Occidental, the Association of Negros Producers, and the Philippine Army.
He added that the participation of former rebels, now on their third year managing the Provincial Peace and Order Council booth, not only showcases their entrepreneurial skills but also symbolizes their successful reintegration into the community.
The ANP, along with the 94th Infantry Battalion and the provincial government of Negros Occidental, has been assisting former rebels from Sitio Madaja, Barangay Buenavista in Himamaylan City, a former NPA stronghold, in their transition back into mainstream society.
“This collaboration underscores our commitment to supporting all members of our society and celebrating their achievements,” said Lacson, who chairs the Regional Peace and Order Council of Western Visayas.
“Through these efforts, we continue to drive economic growth, celebrate our local heritage, and ensure that Negros Island’s agricultural and aquaculture products reach their fullest potential,” he added.
Lacson highlighted that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and exhibitors are not only showcasing their products but also sharing their stories of perseverance, creativity, and success as entrepreneurs thriving despite current challenges.
“I hope trade fairs like this inspire Filipinos to shift their purchasing habits towards locally made products. By doing so, we support homegrown industries and domestic travel, boosting Filipino-owned businesses and services,” Lacson said.
He praised the ANP for its continued proactive initiatives, with the NTF now recognized as the longest-running provincial trade fair held in Manila.
“Your efforts have created opportunities for local SMEs to thrive both domestically and internationally,” he said.
However, Lacson noted that the NTF will need to find a new venue for next year’s event, as Ayala Malls plans to renovate the current space.
