The 2019 National Arts and Crafts Fair, themed as the Philippine Artisans Show, is scheduled for October 24 to 27, at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store at the four-day event:
Nationwide Representation. Two hundred seventy-seven exhibitors from all over the country will showcase the indigenous materials and heritage crafts of Filipino artisans from the country’s 17 regions.
Hibla’t Habi. The Philippines is home to superior quality natural fibers and tropical fabrics which are locally produced and continuously sustained for our local producers and entrepreneurs. This special setting by the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) will feature the country’s natural fivers and fabrics, as well as technology developments in their production, processing and utilization, including demonstrations on abaca and bamboo fiber extraction.
Natural Textile Pavilion. Discover the latest material developments and innovations on Philippine tropical fabrics geared towards sustainable mainstream fashion. Bamboo textiles using eco-friendly processes, and ready-to-buy cotton/pineapple spun yarns and fabrics will be among the features of this exhibit by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI).
Philippine Forest Honey Showcase. Explore the varieties of Philippine forest honey harvested by indigenous communities. The Philippine Forest Honey Network sustainably harvests honey from different parts of the Philippines while maintaining traditional ways of honey hunting and gathering.
Katahum Kang Antique (The Beautiful Province of Antique). Weaving the threads of its vibrant heritage, the Province of Antique in Panay Island has a thriving artisan community producing their traditional patadyong, hablon weaves, bariw handicrafts, and others. Antique’s 18 municipalities are well-represented by 30 exhibitors.
Bangon Marawi. Be mesmerized by the finest collection of authentic and intricately designed brassware, gongs and bells, woodcraft, and textle products decorated with the okir motif representing the enduring history, vibrant culture, and exquisite artistry of the Meranao people.
Schools of Living Traditions (SLT). As part of the daily progam, there will be cultural presentations and live demonstrations of the arts, crafts and practices that are being transmitted by cultural masters to the next generation through community- managed learning programs.
KAPEtirya. The Coffee Pavilion will offer choice coffee and local blends from all over the country, as well as native delicacies that pair well with coffee.
Balat Kayo Dyan! A DIY Leathercrafts Workshop. Design and create your own leather products with the help of differently-abled workers from Handcrafted by Harl’s, a social enterprise that provides gainful employment to persons with disabilities.
Sulat, Ukit at Burda. Be part of the current revival of Baybayin, the pre-Hispanic script of the Tagalogs. Let the experts of Sanghabi render your name in Baybayin on pendants, earrings, and even on your clothes.
Crafter’s Nook. Unleash your imagination in this artistic space created by Avin Doodles and The Erudite Artist. Learn brush calligraphy and explore ways of expressing your inner self through the art of journaling and mixed media crafting.
Shared Service Facilties (SSF). Selected beneficiaries of the DTI’s SSF program will be among the exhibitors.
Following the formal opening on Thursday, October 24, there will be a daily program of activities focusing on business talks on Friday, October 25; arts and crafts activities on Saturday, October 26; and the performing arts on Sunday, October 27. These are open to the public, free of charge.
The 2019 National Arts and Crafts Fair is organized by the Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (DTI-BDTP) in cooperation with the Regional Operations Group, and with support from the Office of Deputy Speaker and Antique Congresswoman Loren Legarda.
It is open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM on October 24 to 27. Admission is free.
For more information, contact numbers are (02) 7751-3223 and (02) 7791-3102, or email bdtp@ dti.gov.ph. You may also follow DTI-BDTP on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.