The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 7 Central Visayas won the Katha Award for Best Regional Booth Presentation at the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines 2026. The three-day trade event took place at the World Trade Center Metro Manila from May 21 to 23, 2026.
Booth Design Inspired by Cebu's Street Dining Culture
The Central Visayas pavilion drew inspiration from Cebu's 'pungko-pungko' street dining culture. It featured native design elements, warm textures, and curated displays aimed at promoting the region's culinary heritage and local identity. The booth was developed in partnership with the DTI Design Center of the Philippines.
Showcasing Export-Ready Products from MSMEs
The pavilion highlighted premium delicacies, innovative food products, and specialty items from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Cebu, Bohol, and Negros Oriental. According to DTI Region 7, the award recognized the creativity and presentation of the regional booth. Organizers noted that the pavilion successfully transformed a familiar local food experience into an immersive presentation of Central Visayas culture and entrepreneurship.
IFEX Philippines as a Global Platform
IFEX Philippines is one of the country's largest international food and beverage trade exhibitions. It serves as a platform for local producers to connect with global buyers and promote Philippine-made products in export markets. The Central Visayas delegation included 21 participating MSMEs: 10 exhibitors from Cebu, three from Bohol, and eight from Negros Oriental.
