Over 200 MSMEs showcase indigenous products in DTI art fair
By MB Business
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has curated more than 200 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to feature various indigenous handcrafted and handwoven products in this year’s National Arts and Crafts Fair (NACF).
After a three-year hiatus, the DTI will again stage its flagship platform that showcases the rich cultural heritage of indigenous crafts, arts, and traditions on Oct. 4 to 8 at the Megatrade Halls 1-3 in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

The selected 200 MSME participants coming across from 17 regions will feature traditional products such as Philippine fabrics, handwoven items, and handicrafts, as well as contemporary interpretations in the form of handmade ornaments, handcrafted jewelry, woven apparel, and home décor.
Beyond the economic empowerment of indigenous communities and local artisans, NACF will also organize educational events for the visitors, giving them the chance to delve further into the cultural value of our artistic traditions through workshops, demonstrations, and interactive exhibitions.
Dedicated talks and sessions will provide vital tools and business insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Above all, the daily program will include talks from the numerous Schools of Living Traditions from throughout the world, giving viewers a comprehensive look at the rich and varied cultural treasures of our people.
From 2016 to 2019, the five NACFs successfully generated revenues of P114 million for their exhibitors during pre-pandemic.
The NACF, initiated by Senator Legarda in 2016, is a national fair showcasing the unique creative industries of the Philippines, preserving cultural heritage and promoting economic viability.
The five-day event is organized by the DTI – Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP) and the DTI Regional and Provincial Offices, in collaboration with the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), together with the Office of Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda. (Ma. Joselie C. Garcia)