The 2024 National Arts & Crafts (NACF) kicked off at SM Megatrade Hall on October 23, organized by the DTI-Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO) in collaboration with the Office of Senator Loren Legarda.

With over 250 exhibitors nationwide the NACF showcases products and services from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), local artisans, and traditional communities, which will run until October 27.

“MSMEs are the heart of everything that we do, they make up 99.9% of the business establishments and 60% of the labor force,” DTI Sec. Cristina Roque said during her keynote message.

“They are not just the backbone of our economy, they are the heartbeat of the community,” she added.

NCAF also advocates a diverse range of traditional Filipino craftsmanship with a touch of modern innovation.

DTI ROG Underscretary Blesila Lantayona led this year’s fair opening ceremony. “The National Arts and Crafts Fair reflects our shared vision of not only preserving but also innovating and advancing our country’s creative industry,” she said.

Additionally, Secretary Roque delivered her speech on behalf of Sen. Loren Legarda, highlighting the significant role of NACF as a platform for mainstreaming Indigenous arts, crafts, fashion, culture, and heritage.

As part of promoting local products and artistry, the five Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan Awardees were also present at the event wherein they partcipated in the ribbon-cutting acitvity that signals the opening of the fair.

Furthermore, GAMABA booths which represents the cultural centers of the 16 Manlilikha ng Bayan, are also the center of the fair.

Several notable officials such as NCCA Executive Director Eric B. Zerrudo, Department of Tourism Sec. Christina Frasco, Climate Change Commission Vice Chairman Robert Borje, and Representatives from the embassies of Korea, Singapore, Greece, Malaysia, and Thailand were also present at the opening event.

For details on this press release, contact Mr. Rene S. Napeñas, Head, Public Affairs and Information Office, through pais@ncca.gov.ph or 0945 788 5698. Visit www.ncca.gov.ph and the Facebook page @NCCAOfficial.