The 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair (NACF) celebrates Filipino artistry and creativity, by bringing together more than 300 exhibitors from all over the country. NACF is organized by the Department of Trade and Industry through its Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO) in partnership with the Office of Senator Loren Legarda.
Highlights include Kalinga weavers, t'nalak cloth by the T'boli of South Cotabato, brassware and torogan-inspired designs from Maranaw artisans, patadyong weaves from Antique, and much, much more.
At the heart of the fair are the Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) awardees- the National Living Treasures whose mastery preserves the Philippines' intangible cultural heritage. Their presence lends the event both prestige and purpose.
There will also be demonstrations of traditional crafts passed down through generations via the Schools of Living Traditions (SLTs). These cultural presentation remind everyone that heritage is not frozen in the past but continues to grow, adapt and thrive.
It also shine's a spotlight on innovation. Curated by the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP), several exhibits explore how traditional materials can take on new life through design collaboration. Modern furniture made from rattan, bamboo and wood stand beside minimalist lighting fixtures crafted by artisans from Pampanga. Jewelry and fashion accessories reinvent indigenous motifs for the contemporary market.
Aside from NACF's daily schedule, the 2025 National Arts & Crafts Fair also includes workshops, live performances and business talks. Resource persons from partner agencies share insights on branding, product innovation and intellectual property. Potters, weavers and woodcarvers hold live demonstrations that captivate visitors and inspire future artisans.
The success of the NACF lies in the strong collaboration between government agencies and creative communities. The DTI-BMDPO continues to play a key role in helping artisans reach new markets through trade promotion and product development support. NCCA ensures that traditional knowledge is preserved, while the DCP bridges heritage and innovation through design thinking.
"Every artisan who joins the fair brings with them the story of a community. Through their hands, we see how creativity can transform lives and how culture remains our strongest foundation for progress," said Senator Legarda.
The 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair runs from October 23-29, 2025 at the Megatrade Halls 1-3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. Admission if FREE.
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