Saturday, November 16, 2024

A Culinary Journey: Announcing the 2024 National Food Fair

A Culinary Journey: Announcing the 2024 National Food Fair

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The 5-day National Food Fair, billed as the Philippine Cuisine and Ingredients Show, will be held at Megatrade Halls 1-3, 5th Level, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. With its loyal foodie following, the fair presents an opportunity to embark on a delicious adventure and discover the rich tapestry of Filipino flavors.

A Decade of Celebrating Filipino Food

Now in its 10th year, the National Food Fair is organized by the DTI Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO) — formerly the Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP) — in collaboration with the DTI Regional and Provincial Offices. It serves as a premier platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the food and beverage industry, a sector that forms nearly half of all MSMEs in the Philippines.

Witnessing a triumphant comeback after a pandemic-induced hiatus in 2020, last year’s event generated over Php 28-million in sales for almost 300 participating MSMEs, showcasing the resilience of Filipino food businesses.

A Bounty of Flavors Awaits

Food enthusiasts can expect a diverse selection of products from all regions of the Philippines, highlighting the country’s rich culinary heritage. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll find:

  • Fresh produce: From vibrant fruits to crisp vegetables, discover the best of Filipino agriculture.
  • Processed and frozen delights: Stock your pantry with delicious and convenient food options.
  • Regional specialties: Embark on a flavor trip across the Philippines with unique cooked and organic dishes.
  • Snack time favorites: Explore an array of delectable snacks and native delicacies.
  • Culinary building blocks: Find unique ingredients and condiments to elevate your home cooking.
  • Beverages galore: Quench your thirst with Philippine coffee, refreshing fruit wines, and other beverages.
  • Health and wellness products: Discover food options that promote a healthy lifestyle.

A Feast for the Senses with Daily Doses of Inspiration

Beyond the culinary creations that await food enthusiasts at the physical fair, there will be special settings to showcase priority industry clusters or sectors, such as:

  • The Coconut Industry Pavilion and Coconut-Based MSME Cluster
  • RAPID Growth Project Pavilion
  • Fresh Produce Pavilion
  • KAPEtirya or Philippine Coffee Pavilion
  • Philippine Island Wine, Beer, and Juice Bar
  • Kusinang Filipino (Filipino Kitchen)

The event will also feature booths by various government agencies and private sector partners who support the growth of MSMEs.

A daily program of activities has been lined up to provide inspiration and upskilling for food-preneurs and home cooks alike. Following the opening ceremonies on July 3rd, a program of exciting activities will be open to the public throughout the fair. These include:

  • Cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, offering valuable culinary insights.
  • Business talks and workshops designed to equip MSMEs with valuable skills and knowledge.

Participation is free, both on-site and via livestream on the National Food Fair’s social media channels. More details will be announced shortly.

Join the DTI-BMDPO Events

Aspiring entrepreneurs can join future DTI-BMDPO fairs through their local DTI Office. They may also reach out to the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions & OTOP by sending an email to Director Marievic Bonoan at BDTP@dti.gov.ph. Stay updated by following them on Facebook (@BDTP), Twitter (@DTI_BDTP), Instagram (@dti.bdtp), YouTube (@DTI.BDTP), and TikTok (@dti.bdtp).

Get ready for a delightful food adventure at the 2024 National Food Fair!