For four decades, the island of Negros has brought its rich culture, mouthwatering culinary heritage, and world-class craftsmanship to Metro Manila. What started as a modest effort by courageous Negrense women to rebuild local livelihoods during the sugar crisis of the 1980s has grown into the country’s longest-running provincial trade fair.
This year marks a major milestone. From September 22 to 27, 2026, BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair returns to the SMX Convention Center Aura in Bonifacio Global City.
Derived from the Hiligaynon word for "sunrise" or "the bursting forth of light," BÚTLAK symbolizes a bright, vibrant legacy moving forward. Organized by the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) in partnership with SM Supermalls through its SM for MSMEs program, this 40th-anniversary showcase connects over 115 homegrown entrepreneurs with thousands of shoppers, foodies, and design enthusiasts.
Whether you're a long-time patron or a first-time visitor, here are 7 compelling reasons why this milestone edition deserves a top spot on your calendar:
1. The Big 4-0 is Going Bigger Than Ever
Forty years of creative excellence is no small feat. To celebrate, more than 115 Negrense entrepreneurs are filling 178 curated booths with the absolute best of the island—spanning artisanal food, contemporary fashion, handcrafted home decor, and fine art. It’s an island-wide homecoming brought right to the heart of Taguig.
2. A Culinary Feast for the Negrense Foodie
Ask any Negros Trade Fair regular, and they’ll tell you: come hungry.
Fresh Piaya: Nothing beats watching iconic, crisp flatbreads stuffed with gooey muscovado heated right before your eyes.
21 Restaurant: Bringing Bacolod’s legendary staples, including their Signature Batchoy, Spanish-style Boquerones, and Lola Nitang’s bibingka.
Quan Delicacies: The ultimate comfort-food haul featuring napoleones, Cansi (savory sour beef soup), Puto Sorbetes, and Batuan Focaccia.
Sir and Ma’am Restaurant: Serving their heirloom Morcon—a cherished family recipe dating back to 1962.
Casa Carmela: Stock your pantry with small-batch delicacies, crispy garlic chips, and savory spreads.
3. Fashion That Wears Heritage Differently
Forget museum pieces—Negrense artisans transform traditional weaves into effortlessly chic, modern wardrobes.
Tia Lacson The Label: Highlights resort-wear crafted from fine piña, linen, and recycled fabrics, empowering mother-embroiderers in Silay, Bacolod, and Talisay.
Ellege Handcrafted Fashion: Preserves the delicate, intricate art of hand-smocking in modern silhouettes.
Arête: Offers handcrafted island accessories made from indigenous Philippine materials.
4. Sustainable, Purpose-Driven Home Decor
Bringing a piece of Negros home means supporting local farming communities during tiempo muerto (the off-crop season in sugar farms).
Hacienda Crafts: Turns abaca, rattan, and coconut twigs into export-quality lighting and furniture, providing home-weaving livelihoods for local mothers.
Tumandok Crafts Industries: Transforms carefully harvested capiz shells into sleek, contemporary houseware.
Artisana Island Crafts: Pairs sustainable ceramics with wild pandan harvested from the foothills of Mt. Kanlaon for eco-luxury table settings.
5. Exclusive First Looks at Next-Gen Philippine Design
This year’s edition isn't just looking back; it’s designing what comes next. Product specialists from the Design Center of the Philippines collaborated directly with local ANP makers to blend raw island materials with modern aesthetics. Visitors will get an exclusive first look at these fresh, market-ready collections alongside the prestigious 2026 Bulawan Awards entries.
6. Quirky, Unexpected Finds with Heart
The joy of the trade fair lies in surprising discoveries:
Rensel’s Sarisa Chips: Born out of resourcefulness when a typhoon stripped local Sarisa trees of their fruit, turning the remaining leaves into a crispy, delicious snack.
Lutak Art Sculptures: Artist Ramon De los Santos makes his official debut using raw earth and clay to craft nostalgic sculptures inspired by traditional Larong Pinoy.
NVC Foundation: Turns discarded tile fragments and used coffee capsules into intricate mosaic art—where every purchase directly funds nutrition and education programs for Negrense children.
7. Empowering MSMEs Through Strategic Partnerships
Beyond shopping, the fair demonstrates the power of public-private collaboration. Through SM for MSMEs, SM Supermalls and SMX Convention Center Aura provide micro, small, and medium enterprises with high-visibility, high-traffic commercial platforms. By bridging the gap between provincial artisans and mainstream markets, homegrown Filipino businesses get the space and momentum they need to scale nationwide.
Event Details
Event: BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair
Dates: September 22 – 27, 2026
Venue: SMX Convention Center Aura, 3rd Level, SM Aura Premier, BGC, Taguig City
Admission: Open to the public
Taste the flavors, wear the heritage, and take home the artistry of Negros. Come hungry, come curious, and don't forget an extra tote bag!
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