BACOLOD City – Bacolod City showcased its cultural heritage, local products, creative enterprises, culinary offerings, and iconic MassKara spirit during the Bacolod Day celebration at the 40th Negros Trade Fair (NTF) at SM Aura in Taguig City on September 26, 2026.
The city’s booth, themed “Smiles,” featured locally made products, handicrafts, culinary specialties, and creative enterprises, highlighting Bacolod’s identity and cultural heritage to visitors from Metro Manila and other areas.
Mayor Greg Gasataya, who led the Bacolod Day celebration, reaffirmed the city government’s support for initiatives that promote local businesses, create livelihood opportunities, and contribute to economic growth.
Gasataya described this year’s celebration as simple but meaningful, noting that Bacolod has consistently supported the annual trade fair.
“The food and products being sold here show the importance of supporting this activity,” Gasataya said, emphasizing the trade fair’s role in helping local producers and entrepreneurs reach new markets and generate additional income.
He also highlighted Bacolod’s upcoming major events, including the MassKara Festival in October, Batang Pinoy 2026 in December, and the first-ever simultaneous Parade of Stars of the Metro Manila Film Festival.
“This will be a very busy quarter for the City of Bacolod, and this will redound to the benefit of the people of Bacolod and, as much as possible, every business in Bacolod and Negros Occidental,” Gasataya said.
Bacolod City Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, who attended the celebration, also expressed support for the trade fair, describing it as one of the longest-running trade events participated in by Negros producers.
Benitez said he had received positive feedback on the event’s growing success and suggested exploring ways to hold similar activities more regularly to provide additional opportunities for local producers and business owners.
Meanwhile, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Jose Patrick “Pato” Gregorio encouraged visitors to travel to Bacolod for Batang Pinoy 2026, which the city will host in December.
Gregorio also urged the city government to ensure an adequate supply of Bacolod’s popular chicken inasal during the sporting event, which is expected to attract around 50,000 people, including approximately 20,000 young athletes.
The PSC is coordinating with the Bacolod City Government in preparation for the event.
Organized in coordination with the Association of Negros Producers, the 40th Negros Trade Fair runs until September 27.
The annual event brings together producers, entrepreneurs, and creative enterprises from across Negros, giving local businesses an opportunity to reach consumers outside the province while promoting the region’s culture, craftsmanship, creativity, and culinary heritage./PN
