SOCIAL SET

A match made in artistry: DTI wedding fair draws massive crowds at SMX Aura

In her keynote speech, Secretary Roque emphasized the government’s dedicated focus on expanding international opportunities for homegrown creators.

Luis Espiritu · Jun 29, 2026, 12:41 AM

FRONT: DTI Assistant Secretary Dominic Tolentino Jr., DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque and DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI

The DTI Wedding Fair officially opened with a spectacular turnout yesterday at the SMX Convention Center Aura Premier, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of couples, wedding planners and industry professionals.

The highly anticipated bridal exposition buzzed with immense energy as hundreds of eager attendees explored a beautifully curated showcase of premier homegrown brands, bespoke bridal gowns, exquisite jewelry, and innovative event styling. This massive opening-day crowd highlighted a soaring consumer interest in the local wedding sector and underscored the vibrant resurgence of the community.

Central to the opening day’s triumph was the inspiring address by Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina “Cris” Roque, who championed the world-class talent and artistry of Filipino entrepreneurs. In her keynote speech, Secretary Roque emphasized the government’s dedicated focus on expanding international opportunities for homegrown creators and lauded the over 100 featured micro, small and medium enterprises driving the local creative economy. Her powerful words set an empowering tone for the weekend, sparking a record volume of direct bookings and robust partnerships that look to elevate Filipino craftsmanship on the global stage.

HOST Isabelle Daza Semblat. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI

LULU Tan Gan — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI

MALAYSIAN Embassy Trade Attache Azlina Che Dir. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI

HAPPY Ongpauco and DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI

MARY Ann Cuenca and Maritel Nievera. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI

ZENAS Pineda and DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Bautista. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI

PENNY Lopez Katigbak and Chloe de la Merced. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI

DENNIS Lustico, Timtam Ong and Avel Bacudio. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI

JOR-EL Espina, Ginggay Joven-dela Merced, Spruce Design’s Pat Pastelero and Malaysian Ambassador Abdul Castelino. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI

ELTON Tan with fiancee Janice Manto, Mia Borromeo and Carolyn Lee Tan. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of DTI