7 Reasons to Discover the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair

Behind every booth is a woman, a story, and a Filipino brand waiting to be discovered. Women entrepreneurs proudly showcase their creations at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair at SM Megamall, where WomenBizPH and SM Supermalls, through SM for MSMEs, create opportunities for homegrown businesses to gain visibility, connect with more customers, and take their next step toward growth.

The next great Filipino brand may be closer than you think. Behind every handcrafted accessory, woven textile, artisanal delicacy, sustainable fashion piece, and proudly Filipino product is a woman who dared to turn an idea into a business. Some are preserving generations of Filipino craftsmanship. Others are creating livelihoods for their communities. And some are already making the leap from trade fair booths to wider retail distribution.

These stories came together at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair 2026, which opened at SM Megamall on August 10, bringing women entrepreneurs, government leaders, industry partners, and shoppers together for three days of business, learning, and meaningful connections.

 

Organized by WomenBizPH in partnership with SM Supermalls through SM for MSMEs, the trade fair celebrates more than what's being sold. It puts the spotlight on the remarkable women behind the brands and creates opportunities for more Filipino businesses to be seen, supported, and discovered.

 

Here are seven reasons why this year's trade fair is more than just a marketplace.

1. Every booth has a story waiting to be discovered. Walk through the trade fair and you'll discover more than beautiful products. You'll meet master weavers preserving generations of Filipino craftsmanship, entrepreneurs transforming family recipes into businesses, and women turning local materials and creative ideas into products that can compete in a much bigger marketplace.

For Ma. Cecilia Mina of Tinguian Ethnic Art Handloom Woven Products from Apayao, trade fairs have changed the way they reach customers. “Dati, naglalako lang kami para makabenta. Napakalaking ginhawa na nakakasali kami sa mga ganitong trade fair. Pang-limang taon na po namin dito.” Her experience captures something easily overlooked when shopping: behind every booth may be an entrepreneur who once had to go from place to place looking for customers—and who now has a marketplace where customers can discover her.

As Rosemarie Bosch Ong, President of WomenBizPH, shared during the opening, the Women Strong Network is about building not only businesses, but a community where women can learn, grow, and inspire one another, with platforms such as SM helping their stories and products reach more people.

 

2. You might discover your next favorite Filipino brand. From handcrafted fashion and woven home décor to artisanal food, wellness products, accessories, personal care, and sustainable lifestyle brands, the trade fair brings together a diverse collection of women-led Filipino enterprises. But the best discoveries often begin with a conversation.

Here, shoppers can meet the entrepreneurs themselves, ask about how products are made, hear the inspiration behind a brand, and understand the work that goes into something they might otherwise simply pick up from a shelf. Every purchase supports a local entrepreneur. Every new customer expands a brand's reach. And every discovery can bring a small business one step closer to its next opportunity.

Filipino creativity, craftsmanship, and culture in every creation. From contemporary Filipiniana and handwoven bags to intricate artworks and locally crafted jewelry, women-led MSMEs bring tradition to life through products that celebrate Filipino heritage while reimagining it for today’s market at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair.

3. Great entrepreneurs never stop learning. Building a successful business takes more than having a great product. The opening program reinforced the importance of continuously learning, adapting, innovating, and building the right partnerships. Government agencies, private-sector organizations, and industry leaders came together to reaffirm their support for helping women entrepreneurs become more competitive through market access, capability-building, innovation, and collaboration.

Women MSMEs connect directly with shoppers and guests at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair, creating meaningful moments to share their products, tell the stories behind their brands, and build relationships that can open doors to new customers and future growth.

 

Women MSMEs connect directly with shoppers and guests at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair, creating meaningful moments to share their products, tell the stories behind their brands, and build relationships that can open doors to new customers and future growth.

Department of Trade and Industry Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista underscored the role of women entrepreneurs in driving economic growth and the importance of collaboration among government, the private sector, WomenBizPH, and SM for MSMEs in providing knowledge, support, and market opportunities. Day 2 continues with business talks, mentoring, and discussions on innovation and transformation to help entrepreneurs prepare for their next stage of growth.

 

4. Sometimes the biggest opportunity begins with a conversation. Not every measure of success happens at the checkout counter. Throughout the trade fair, entrepreneurs connect directly with shoppers, fellow founders, mentors, government representatives, and potential business partners. A conversation can become a new customer. An introduction can lead to a collaboration. A trade fair appearance can open the door to a bigger market. For MSMEs, these connections matter because growing a business isn't simply about selling more—it is also about meeting the people and finding the opportunities that can help take the business forward.

Creating connections that help businesses grow. Guests and partners engage with women entrepreneurs at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair, opening opportunities for greater visibility, new customers, and meaningful connections.

Creating connections that help businesses grow. Guests and partners engage with women entrepreneurs at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair, opening opportunities for greater visibility, new customers, and meaningful connections.

5. Behind every product is a community and culture worth supporting. For many women entrepreneurs, their businesses represent something bigger than themselves. Sitti Go Se of Mindanao Pearl International, a third-generation business owner, works with people from her own community in Sulu who harvest the pearls and create the jewelry sold by the company.

“Ang mga empleyado po sa amin ay mismong mga kababayan namin sa Sulu. Sila po ang umaani ng pearls at gumagawa ng jewelry. Proud Filipino po tayo—ang designs namin ay sariling atin. These events help promote our products and culture, and we get a lot of inquiries and sales through them.” Her story shows the ripple effect behind supporting a Filipino MSME: one purchase can help sustain a business, create livelihood, preserve craftsmanship, and bring a community's culture to a wider audience.

 

6. Success deserves to be celebrated—and shared. The Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair also creates opportunities to recognize women who continue to push their businesses forward. The celebration continues with entrepreneur learning sessions, networking opportunities, exhibitor testimonials, the Amazing Weaves Distinction Awards, and the Capstone Awards, recognizing excellence across areas such as creativity, craftsmanship, innovation, sales performance, and booth presentation. But recognition is about more than receiving an award. When the journey of one woman entrepreneur is celebrated, it can show another aspiring entrepreneur what is possible. And sometimes, seeing someone else's success is the encouragement another woman needs to finally take her own first step.

Proudly Filipino fashion takes center stage. House of Musa showcases its distinctive take on contemporary Filipino design at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair, bringing local craftsmanship and cultural influences to life through bold, modern pieces that celebrate Filipino creativity and identity.

7. A trade fair can be the beginning of something much bigger. For SM Supermalls, a trade fair is more than a place to sell—it can be a pathway to growth. Through SM for MSMEs, entrepreneurs gain opportunities to be discovered, reach new customers, and take their businesses further.

For Gloria Pantaleon, owner of Gloria’s Delicacies, that opportunity has already opened new doors. “We started by joining trade fairs, and today some of our popular products are already being distributed through SM Hypermarket. Our dream is to reach even more customers through other SM retail channels. That’s what opportunities like these can do—give a small local business like ours a pathway to become something bigger.”

 

Corrs Valenton, CEO of Corrsy’s Kitchen, shares a similar journey from a small start to a growing retail presence. “I started with just a small booth at SM in 2022. Today, we have grown into kiosks at SM City Fairview and SM City Bicutan. SM gave us the opportunity to be discovered, reach more customers, and turn a small beginning into a growing business.”

Their journeys reflect what Royston Cabunag, Assistant Vice President and Head of SM Communities at SM Supermalls, shared during the opening: “At SM Supermalls, we believe our role goes beyond providing places where people shop. Through SM for MSMEs, we create platforms where entrepreneurs can be discovered, local brands can flourish, and communities can thrive. Behind every great Filipino brand is an entrepreneur whose story deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated.”

Because the journey from market to mainstream can begin with one opportunity to be discovered—and the right platform to grow.

Discover the Women Behind Today's Inspiring Filipino Brands

Whether you're looking for handcrafted gifts, sustainable fashion, homegrown delicacies, or simply a story that inspires, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair offers more than a shopping experience. It is an invitation to meet the makers, discover proudly Filipino brands, and support the women building businesses that strengthen families, preserve communities, and create new possibilities.

Discover proudly Filipino flavors. From artisanal chocolates and local delicacies to bottled specialties and innovative food products, women-led MSMEs showcase the creativity and diversity of Filipino entrepreneurship at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair—giving shoppers more homegrown brands to discover, taste, and support.

Visit the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair 2026:

• SM Megamall | August 10–12
• SM City Cebu | August 14–16

Because behind every booth is more than a business. It's a woman with a dream—and perhaps, the next great Filipino brand waiting to be discovered.

5 Reasons Shoppers are Obsessed with the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM Bacolod

The Bulawan Trade Fair is officially in full swing at SM City Bacolod, drawing shoppers, creatives, and supporters of local craftsmanship into a vibrant showcase of Negrense artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Following a successful opening day turnout, the three-day fair continues to spotlight proudly local products and meaningful stories from MSMEs across Negros Occidental — proving why this event deserves a spot on everyone’s weekend plans.

SM Supermalls and the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) formally open the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod, celebrating Negrense creativity, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship while creating greater opportunities for local MSMEs to thrive. L-R: Brigadier General Ted Dumosmog Commanding Officer 303rd Brigade; Gov. Eugenio “Bong” Lacson; Mary Ann Colmenares, 40th Negros Trade Fair Chairperson; May Castro, Public Relations Manager of SM City Bacolod; and Lynna Joy B. Cardinal, DTI Negros Occidental Provincial Director.

Organized in partnership with the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), the same organization behind the highly successful Negros Trade Fair at SM Aura last year, the Bulawan Trade Fair serves as both a celebration of creativity and a gateway for MSMEs to connect with wider national opportunities through SM Supermalls’ expansive retail network.

Here are five reasons why shoppers are loving the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM Bacolod:

1. It’s where Negrense craftsmanship meets modern innovation

Shoppers are especially flocking to the fair for highly sought-after Negrense delicacies, handcrafted home décor, artisanal fashion accessories, woven products, natural crafts, and locally made food favorites that showcase the distinct creativity and craftsmanship of Negros Occidental.

Proudly Negrense delicacies, artisanal creations, and handcrafted products take center stage at the Bulawan Trade Fair, showcasing the innovation and creativity of local MSMEs.

Visitors can also discover original and never-before-seen product concepts featured in SIBOL: The 33rd Bulawan Awards, 4th Pilak Awards, and 3rd ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition—a prestigious platform where new products and creative concepts are introduced, judged, and recognized for excellence and innovation.

The Bulawan Trade fair serves as a platform for Negrense artisans and entrepreneurs to champion their culture and distinct creative palates to a wider market of customers through SM Supermalls

“People now appreciate products with authentic stories and craftsmanship,” shared Eva Si of ChiEvs Stones and Crystals. “The Bulawan Trade Fair allows us to proudly showcase Negrense creativity to more customers and new markets.”products and creative concepts are introduced, judged, and recognized for excellence and innovation.

2. It’s a major boost for local and next generation Filipino MSMEs

As part of SM Supermalls’ continuing SM for MSMEs advocacy, the event provides entrepreneurs with greater visibility, stronger customer engagement, and opportunities to scale beyond their local communities. “SM Supermalls continues to open meaningful opportunities for MSMEs across the country,” said Joaquin San Agustin. “Through events like the Bulawan Trade Fair, we help local businesses connect with more customers, strengthen their brands, and become part of a larger movement that champions Filipino entrepreneurship.”

Local artisans proudly showcase their latest creations as guests flock to the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod.

3. It’s where future Negrense brands are discovered

SIBOL: The 33rd Bulawan Awards, 4th Pilak Awards, and 3rd ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition serves as a preview leading toward the milestone 40th Negros Trade Fair happening later this year in Manila. The competitions introduce new products and concepts to the market, where entries are judged based on innovation, craftsmanship, and design excellence before potentially being launched commercially after the judging on May 29.

Winning products often gain wider exposure through the Negros Trade Fair, including previous standouts such as Chorizo Hamonado and Recado in Chili Oil, which eventually became part of the Manila showcase.

The Bulawan Awards recognize products from ANP members and, this year, also welcome non-ANP participants under an Open Category—expanding opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs and creators across Negros Occidental.

Negrense entrepreneurs connect with wider audiences through SM Supermalls’ MSME platform, transforming local craftsmanship into growing business opportunities.

Meanwhile, the Pilak Awards highlight products developed by MSMEs supported by the Negros Occidental Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) under the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental, which empowers MSMEs, farmers, and marginalized communities through livelihood development, skills training, and enterprise support.

The ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition shines a spotlight on former conflict area communities, using creativity and weaving as tools for empowerment, peace-building, and sustainable livelihood generation. Through handcrafted products and cultural storytelling, participating communities showcase resilience, heritage, and hope.

For over four decades, ANP has championed Negrense entrepreneurship, design innovation, and craftsmanship by creating platforms that help local businesses grow and thrive. “The overwhelming support during opening day reflects the growing appreciation for proudly local products and Negrense talent,” shared Mary Ann Colmenares, 40th Negros Trade Fair Chairperson. “Through our partnership with SM Supermalls, we are able to give our artisans and MSMEs a stronger platform to reach wider audiences.”

4. Visitors can experience more than just shopping

Beyond the exhibits, guests can immerse themselves in a dynamic lineup of creative workshops, industry meetups, talks, runway presentations, and live product judging sessions that celebrate the intersection of culture, creativity, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

Among the activities happening throughout the fair are macrame workshops, women-led art sessions, design talks, and fashion presentations featuring local arts and crafts. “It’s inspiring to see people not just buying products but also wanting to learn the stories and processes behind them,” shared CJ Jimenez of Vaca Japonesa. “That connection makes events like this very meaningful for makers like us.”

The Bulawan Trade Fair transforms SM City Bacolod into a vibrant marketplace showcasing the best of Negrense artistry and innovation.

5. Every purchase supports local communities

Every handcrafted product purchased at the fair directly supports local artisans, community-based enterprises, and livelihood programs across Negros Occidental. The event also features products from communities supported through the Balik Salig Awards, a collaborative initiative that empowers former conflict-affected communities through weaving, craftsmanship, and sustainable livelihoods.

Products developed by MSMEs supported by the Negros Occidental Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) highlight the power of livelihood development, creativity, and local enterprise.

By supporting local makers, shoppers become part of a larger movement that helps preserve culture, uplift communities, and strengthen Filipino entrepreneurship. The Bulawan Trade Fair and SIBOL Design Competition at SM City Bacolod continue to celebrate Negrense creativity, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment—while opening doors for local MSMEs to grow from regional artisans into nationally recognized brands.

DTI and SM Supermalls Highlight Philippine Coconut Industry Trade

MSMEs take the spotlight | Local entrepreneurs showcase coconut-based products proudly crafted by Filipino hands

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), together with the Philippine Coconut Authority, proudly launched the 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair from August 28 to September 2 at SM Megamall, shining the spotlight on one of the country’s most iconic and powerful agricultural assets—the coconut.

Organized under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) mandated by Republic Act No. 11524, the fair went beyond showcasing products—it became a coconut-powered movement celebrating sustainability, innovation, and farmer empowerment.

Visitors discovered a diverse lineup of food, wellness, and lifestyle products crafted by Filipino coconut farmers and MSMEs, proving how the humble coconut continues to create opportunities and transform communities nationwide.

Sustainability Meets Innovation

From organic health supplements to biodegradable household items, the fair highlighted eco-friendly innovations that show how coconuts are shaping a more sustainable future.

 Innovation with purpose | Eco-friendly coconut products highlight sustainability and green living.

“With support from DTI and SM, we’re able to reach more Filipino consumers and let more people discover our products. Kimes Foods today holds patents in 11 countries and distributes abroad.” – Dr. Priscilla Kimes, Kimes Foods (Cebu)

“Simula pa 2011, kasali na kami rito at full support talaga ang DTI sa amin. At kapag sa SM po ang trade fair, malakas talaga ang benta,” said Randy Pineda, President of the Association of Bamboo and Coco Crafts of Tiwi (Albay).

SM’s Strong Commitment to MSMEs

As a partner, SM Supermalls reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MSMEs by providing platforms that elevate local industries, create economic opportunities, and champion proudly Filipino-made products.

“By bringing together coconut farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs under one roof, the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair not only strengthens the coconut industry but also empowers the communities behind it. SM Supermalls is proud to be part of this mission,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

With over 220 exhibitors nationwide, the 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair stands as a powerful testament to how government and private partnerships can drive inclusive growth, uplift Filipino farmers, and build a stronger future for MSMEs.

 

Crafted with care | Artisans present creative coconut handicrafts that blend tradition and modern design.

Top 3 Things You Can’t Miss at HIMBON: The 39th Negros Trade Fair

 

Culinary Creations by Rising Negrense Chefs - Two Negrense talents wowed the crowd and stole the spotlight during the media launch of Himbon: The 39th Negros Trade Fair last Aug 26, 2025—and their names are worth remembering. Their gastronomic menu was just a taste of what’s possible: innovative, world-class, and proudly Negrense!

Chef Cara Davis (Halong, Makati) – trained in Michelin-starred kitchens from New York to San Sebastián, she now fuses bold Asian flavors with her Mexican culinary background.

Think uni toast with foie gras and crab aligue pave — just some of the inventive dishes she crafted, alongside many other culinary creations.

 

Chef Luis Locsin (private dining star) – CIA-trained, with global stints from Jean Georges NYC to Bali, he now curates private dining. His charcuterie spread at the launch featured Negros blue cheese, Don Papa rum pâté. Proudly Negrense, globally trained.

 

Pâté en croute, and Casa del Formaggio Stracciatella, olive oil, and confit tomatoes

This year, the Negros Trade Fair makes its historic debut at SM Aura—and it’s bringing with it the flavors, fashion, and flair of Negrense heritage. Here are the main reasons of must-experiences for foodies, fashionistas, and lifestyle lovers you don’t want to miss:

 

#1 Heritage Weaves, Modern Fashion & Accessories

Handwoven Hablon, hand-smocked dresses, and chic tropical fibers reimagined for today’s wardrobe. Paired with striking local jewelry and artisanal accessories, these pieces prove heritage and modernity can walk the runway together.

 

#2 Handcrafted Home Finds

From pandan to bamboo to buri—Negrense artisans transform natural fibers into elegant accents for your home. Discover design-forward décor and furnishings that bring timeless Negros craftsmanship into modern living spaces.

 

#3 Artisan Sweet & Savory & Pasalubong

Stock up on flavors that define Negros: – From Mumshies’ delicacies to Virgie’s home-made mango tarts and pastries, plus savory favorites like the Ereneta-Manaloto’s bottled Chorizo de Bacolod and a lot more— Sweet or savory, these iconic bites are made for gifting—or for keeping all to yourself.

 

Experience More at HIMBON

Beyond shopping, HIMBON is a celebration of Negrense culture. Sip on Don Papa rum and locally crafted wines as live acoustic music fills the air, bringing the warmth of Negros hospitality right to the city. Let the fair inspire your next adventure with showcases of pristine beaches, heritage haciendas, and food tours—each one an invitation to experience Negros firsthand. And of course, every artisan booth and styled corner is a story waiting for your feed, so don’t forget to capture your #HimbonMoments along the way.

 

At its core, HIMBON means “to gather.” And this fair is exactly that—a gathering of food, fashion, and heritage that celebrates both tradition and modern creativity.

● Save the Date: Sept 23–28 | SMX Convention Center, SM Aura
● Taste. Shop. Celebrate. Experience Negros like never before.

About SM Supermalls MSMEs

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. MSMEs are everywhere in SM Supermalls. From pop-ups to trade fairs, they transform our malls into launchpads of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship—fueling energy, ideas, and everyday experiences. Be part of this success story—visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today!