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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider First Lady touts Filipino food, MSMEs at IFEX Philippines 2026

First Lady touts Filipino food, MSMEs at IFEX Philippines 2026

Published May 24, 2026 08:18 am

At A Glance

  • First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos highlighted the role of Filipino farmers, MSMEs, and communities during IFEX Philippines 2026.
  • The First Lady said the trade show creates opportunities for jobs, livelihood, and global partnerships.
  • This year's IFEX gathered more than 500 exhibitors and 100 international brands in Pasay City.
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos browses the different local food products at the IFEX Philippines 2026 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City, on May 21, 2026. (Liza Marcos/Facebook)
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos browses the different local food products at the IFEX Philippines 2026 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City, on May 21, 2026. (Liza Marcos/Facebook)

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos highlighted the role of Filipino farmers, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and local communities in promoting Philippine food products on the global stage during the opening of IFEX Philippines 2026 in Pasay City.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, May 23, the First Lady said Filipino food represents more than just flavors, stressing that it also reflects the hard work and creativity behind local products.

“Filipino food is more than just our flavors. It’s about the hard work of our farmers, the creativity of our MSMEs, and the pride that our communities pour into every product,” she said.

Marcos said this year’s IFEX Philippines theme, “Tropical Flavors for the World,” reflects efforts to expand opportunities for Filipino businesses internationally.

The First Lady also underscored the importance of partnerships and product exposure generated during the annual trade event.

“Every new partnership and every product discovered here opens doors for more jobs, more livelihoods, and bigger opportunities for Filipino businesses to proudly compete on the global stage,” she said.

IFEX Philippines 2026 was held from May 21 to 23 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City.

The 19th edition of the country’s largest export-oriented food and beverage trade show featured more than 500 exhibitors and 100 international brands.

The three-day exhibition brought together global trade buyers, local MSMEs, and industry leaders, with focus areas including private label opportunities, food innovation, and sustainability.

Related Tags

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos Liza Araneta-Marcos Filipino food MSME IFEX 2026
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