Grand Opening Highlights a New Era for Negros Heritage
The Negros heritage community marked a milestone as Himbon — the 39th Negros Trade Fair — officially opened at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura. The event, hosted by the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) in partnership with SM Supermalls, signals a bold new chapter for Negros craftsmanship, enterprise, and cultural identity. Rebranded under the banner Himbon, a term that means “to gather,” this edition emphasizes unity, collaboration, and a shared vision for Negros products to reach broader audiences while staying true to their roots.
As the country’s longest-running provincial trade fair, the Negros Trade Fair has history on its side. Attendees were reminded of its mid-1990s roots at the Megatrade Hall of SM Megamall, when a modest but spirited display of Negrense artistry first captured public imagination. That enduring spirit now travels through generations, expanding in scope yet preserving the meticulous handiwork and culinary traditions unique to Negros Occidental and Oriental Mindoro. Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, described the fair as more than an exhibition—it is a gathering that celebrates the best of Negros, underscoring SM’s commitment to championing Filipino MSMEs and keeping heritage alive in a modern marketplace.
The grand opening drew a dynamic mix of media personalities, influencers, and Manila society figures, amplifying the fair’s buzz both on-site and online. The inaugural day underscored how traditional Negrense craftsmanship sits beside contemporary design, entrepreneurship, and sustainable practices.
A Vibrant Six-Category Showcase
Visitors are treated to a comprehensive, six-category celebration of Negros’ multifaceted creativity and resilience. Each category offers a window into both heritage and modern sensibilities, inviting guests to taste, touch, and experience Negros in meaningful ways.
Food — Authentic Negrense Delicacies
Showcasing heirloom recipes and artisanal flavors, the food category invites guests to sample preserved family favorites, contemporary twists on traditional dishes, and small-batch creations that reflect the region’s culinary diversity. The offerings highlight the careful craft and pride embedded in Negros cuisine, from sweet treats to savory staples rooted in family traditions.
Fashion — Handwoven Textiles and Sustainable Wear
Weaving, dyeing, and sustainable materials take center stage here. Expect garments and accessories that honor local textile traditions while embracing contemporary silhouettes. The category demonstrates how Negrense artisans blend age-old techniques with modern design to create apparel that travels well beyond Negros’ shores.
Gifts, Décor, and Homestyle
Elegant, handcrafted pieces populate this space, ranging from home accents to keepsakes that reflect the region’s artistic vocabulary. Each piece speaks of patient artistry, regional motifs, and the warmth of Negrense hospitality, inviting visitors to bring home a tangible memory of Negros heritage.
Natural and Organic — Skincare and Wellness
Natural beauty and wellness products showcase sustainable sourcing and small-batch production. The category highlights Negros’ commitment to eco-friendly practices and skin- and wellness-conscious formulations, aligning with a global movement toward greener living.
Tourism — Destinations and Cultural Experiences
Travel and experiential packages spotlight Negros’ scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and authentic experiences. The tourism showcase reminds attendees that heritage is as much about people and places as it is about products, inviting visitors to plan future journeys across Negros’ inviting towns and beaches.
Furniture and Furnishings — Export-Quality Designs
Ranging from rustic to refined, this category features furniture and furnishings inspired by Negros’ landscape and craft traditions. The designs emphasize durability, functionality, and aesthetics, proving that Negrense artistry has a compelling place on the global stage.
A Platform for Progress and Global Reach
What began in 1985 with just 30 vendors has evolved into a national institution that nurtures MSMEs and elevates Negrense creativity to international audiences. This year’s fair is the biggest yet—139 exhibitors occupying 2,500 square meters—making it the largest showcasing in the event’s history. The fair runs until September 28, 2025 at the SMX Aura Convention Center, SM Aura, inviting visitors to taste, shop, and experience the vibrant stories of Negros—all in one place.
Why It Matters
Himbon represents more than commerce: it is a celebration of a people’s resilience and a commitment to preserving a regional aesthetic while encouraging innovation. For Negros producers, the fair is a crucial platform for scaling products, forging partnerships, and connecting with national and global markets. For visitors, it offers an immersive journey into the heart of Negros—where heritage, craft, and enterprise intersect to shape a brighter, more sustainable future.
