In partnership with the local government of Negros Occidental and the Department of Trade and Industry, the 36th Negros Trade Fair opened this year with the theme, "Hidlaw," the Hiligaynon term for "yearning."

During the opening on 20 September, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said the Negros Trade Fair is "one of resilience, ingenuity, hope, and courage of the Negrense spirit."

"Here we are together to once again ring the bell to start this year's historic trade fair. No people in recent history have been called upon to overcome the obstacles that tested our resolve as human beings," he added.

Lacson encouraged everyone to visit the trade fair "to remember and give gratitude to the Negrense women who faced seemingly insurmountable odds to provide an alternative source of income to the Negrense farmers who were badly hit by the global sugar crisis."

The trade fair showcases the sweet delicacies of Western Visayas including piaya, danggit, guaple, and buko pie, as well as fashion and home products imbued with Negrense flair.

The Negros Trade Fair is happening at Glorietta Mall, Makati City, featuring the diverse and rich delicacies, culture, and arts of Negros Occidental. The fair is open to public until Sunday, 25 September.