5 Reasons Shoppers are Obsessed with the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM Bacolod

The Bulawan Trade Fair is officially in full swing at SM City Bacolod, drawing shoppers, creatives, and supporters of local craftsmanship into a vibrant showcase of Negrense artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Following a successful opening day turnout, the three-day fair continues to spotlight proudly local products and meaningful stories from MSMEs across Negros Occidental — proving why this event deserves a spot on everyone’s weekend plans.

SM Supermalls and the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) formally open the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod, celebrating Negrense creativity, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship while creating greater opportunities for local MSMEs to thrive. L-R: Brigadier General Ted Dumosmog Commanding Officer 303rd Brigade; Gov. Eugenio “Bong” Lacson; Mary Ann Colmenares, 40th Negros Trade Fair Chairperson; May Castro, Public Relations Manager of SM City Bacolod; and Lynna Joy B. Cardinal, DTI Negros Occidental Provincial Director.

Organized in partnership with the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), the same organization behind the highly successful Negros Trade Fair at SM Aura last year, the Bulawan Trade Fair serves as both a celebration of creativity and a gateway for MSMEs to connect with wider national opportunities through SM Supermalls’ expansive retail network.

Here are five reasons why shoppers are loving the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM Bacolod:

1. It’s where Negrense craftsmanship meets modern innovation

Proudly Negrense delicacies, artisanal creations, and handcrafted products take center stage at the Bulawan Trade Fair, showcasing the innovation and creativity of local MSMEs.

Shoppers are especially flocking to the fair for highly sought-after Negrense delicacies, handcrafted home décor, artisanal fashion accessories, woven products, natural crafts, and locally made food favorites that showcase the distinct creativity and craftsmanship of Negros Occidental.

Visitors can also discover original and never-before-seen product concepts featured in SIBOL: The 33rd Bulawan Awards, 4th Pilak Awards, and 3rd ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition—a prestigious platform where new 

products and creative concepts are introduced, judged, and recognized for excellence and innovation. 

The Bulawan Trade fair serves as a platform for Negrense artisans and entrepreneurs to champion their culture  and  distinct creative palates to a wider market of customers through SM Supermalls

The Bulawan Trade fair serves as a platform for Negrense artisans and entrepreneurs to champion their culture  and  distinct creative palates to a wider market of customers through SM Supermalls

The Bulawan Trade fair serves as a platform for Negrense artisans and entrepreneurs to champion their culture  and  distinct creative palates to a wider market of customers through SM Supermalls

The Bulawan Trade fair serves as a platform for Negrense artisans and entrepreneurs to champion their culture  and  distinct creative palates to a wider market of customers through SM Supermalls

“People now appreciate products with authentic stories and craftsmanship. The Bulawan Trade Fair allows us to proudly showcase Negrense creativity to more customers and new markets.” ~Eva Si of ChiEvs Stones and Crystals

Products and creative concepts are introduced, judged, and recognized for excellence and innovation. 

2. It’s a major boost for local and next generation Filipino MSMEs

As part of SM Supermalls’ continuing SM for MSMEs advocacy, the event provides entrepreneurs with greater visibility, stronger customer engagement, and opportunities to scale beyond their local communities. 

“SM Supermalls continues to open meaningful opportunities for MSMEs across the country. Through events like the Bulawan Trade Fair, we help local businesses connect with more customers, strengthen their brands, and become part of a larger movement that champions Filipino entrepreneurship.” ~Joaquin San Agustinv

Local artisans proudly showcase their latest creations as guests flock to the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod.

Local artisans proudly showcase their latest creations as guests flock to the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod.

Local artisans proudly showcase their latest creations as guests flock to the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod.

3. It’s where future Negrense brands are discovered

Negrense entrepreneurs connect with wider audiences through SM Supermalls’ MSME platform, transforming local craftsmanship into growing business opportunities.

SIBOL: The 33rd Bulawan Awards, 4th Pilak Awards, and 3rd ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition serves as a preview leading toward the milestone 40th Negros Trade Fair happening later this year in Manila. The competitions introduce new products and concepts to the market, where entries are judged based on innovation, craftsmanship, and design excellence before potentially being launched commercially after the judging on May 29.

Winning products often gain wider exposure through the Negros Trade Fair, including previous standouts such as Chorizo Hamonado and Recado in Chili Oil, which eventually became part of the Manila showcase. 

The Bulawan Awards recognize products from ANP members and, this year, also welcome non-ANP participants under an Open Category—expanding opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs and creators across Negros Occidental.

Meanwhile, the Pilak Awards highlight products developed by MSMEs supported by the Negros Occidental Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) under the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental, which empowers MSMEs, farmers, and marginalized communities through livelihood development, skills training, and enterprise support.

The ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition shines a spotlight on former conflict area communities, using creativity and weaving as tools for empowerment, peace-building, and sustainable livelihood generation. Through handcrafted products and cultural storytelling, participating communities showcase resilience, heritage, and hope.

For over four decades, ANP has championed Negrense entrepreneurship, design innovation, and craftsmanship by creating platforms that help local businesses grow and thrive. 

“The overwhelming support during opening day reflects the growing appreciation for proudly local products and Negrense talent. Through our partnership with SM Supermalls, we are able to give our artisans and MSMEs a stronger platform to reach wider audiences.” ~Mary Ann Colmenares, 40th Negros Trade Fair Chairperson

4. Visitors can experience more than just shopping

The Bulawan Trade Fair transforms SM City Bacolod into a vibrant marketplace showcasing the best of Negrense artistry and innovation.

Beyond the exhibits, guests can immerse themselves in a dynamic lineup of creative workshops, industry meetups, talks, runway presentations, and live product judging sessions that celebrate the intersection of culture, creativity, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

Among the activities happening throughout the fair are macrame workshops, women-led art sessions, design talks, and fashion presentations featuring local arts and crafts. 

“It’s inspiring to see people not just buying products but also wanting to learn the stories and processes behind them. That connection makes events like this very meaningful for makers like us.” ~CJ Jimenez of Vaca Japonesa

5. Every purchase supports local communities

Products developed by MSMEs supported by the Negros Occidental Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) highlight the power of livelihood development, creativity, and local enterprise.

Products developed by MSMEs supported by the Negros Occidental Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) highlight the power of livelihood development, creativity, and local enterprise.

Every handcrafted product purchased at the fair directly supports local artisans, community-based enterprises, and livelihood programs across Negros Occidental. The event also features products from communities supported through the Balik Salig Awards, a collaborative initiative that empowers former conflict-affected communities through weaving, craftsmanship, and sustainable livelihoods. 

By supporting local makers, shoppers become part of a larger movement that helps preserve culture, uplift communities, and strengthen Filipino entrepreneurship. The Bulawan Trade Fair and SIBOL Design Competition at SM City Bacolod continue to celebrate Negrense creativity, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment—while opening doors for local MSMEs to grow from regional artisans into nationally recognized brands.

About SM Supermalls – MSMEs

SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 90 malls nationwide—creates business opportunities through its SM for MSMEs advocacy program, by providing market access, visibility, mentorship, and a marketplace where enterprises can grow and thrive. By connecting entrepreneurs to communities and customers, SM enables businesses to scale and succeed. Because when MSMEs thrive, communities grow stronger—reflecting SM’s commitment to building a future designed All For You. To learn more, visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com.

Chooks Diner Expands in BGC with Opening of Two New Branches at Inoza Tower and Sundry

Chooks Diner has opened two new restaurants in Bonifacio Global City, Chooks Diner Inoza Tower BGC and Chooks Diner Sundry Food Hall BGC, bringing its unique Filipino comfort food to even more customers.

The expansion is another milestone for the burgeoning dine-in brand, bolstering its presence in one of Metro Manila's busiest lifestyle and business zones. Both outlets, which are strategically located to serve office workers, families, and food enthusiasts, offer a convenient and inviting dining environment where guests can enjoy flavorful and economical Filipino dishes.

Chooks Diner, Chooks-to-Go's restaurant brand, offers the brand's popular tastes and iconic comfort food favorites in a complete dine-in setting. The restaurant is well-known for its comforting comfort food choices, including popular favorites like Chili Garlic Chicken, hearty Silog dinners, luscious desserts, and the famous Chooks-to-Go Roasted Chicken. Guests can also receive free limitless rice and soup, making every meal more satisfying and delightful.

Chooks Diner's newest sites in BGC aspire to become a go-to dining destination for busy professionals, residents, and visitors looking for great meals that fit into their daily lives. The company continues committed to providing quality food, value for money dining, and the warm, familiar flavors that Filipino customers like.

Play, Move, and Chill at SM Supermalls this Summer

Cool down and recharge with refreshing treats, from milk tea to halo-halo favorites, perfect for a well-earned break in your maxed-out summer.

The SM Active Hub brings the community together, where every step, sprint, and shared moment lets you Gala To The Max with a maxed-out experience at SM Supermalls.

Gather your crew for pickleball, runs, and refreshing coolers to beat the heat.

This summer, your most-loved SM Supermalls turn up the energy with experiences designed for every kind of barkada. At the heart of it all is the SM Active Hub—a growing community of movers, players, and fitness enthusiasts—bringing together activities that let you truly Gala To The Max.

Dive into Summer Play with the SM Active Hub

The SM Active Hub sets the tone for a season filled with movement, connection, and fun. Fresh from celebrating its first anniversary with a series of activities across select SM malls last April 11 to 12, the community continues to build momentum with even more ways to stay active all summer long.

Whether you're picking up a new sport or leveling up your routine, the SM Active Hub brings together experiences that make every visit more dynamic and engaging—giving you more ways to Gala To The Max this summer.

Join the Pickleball Mania

Rally, compete, and connect at the SM Active Hub’s pickleball courts, where every match is a chance to Gala To The Max.

Pickleball takes center stage with a lineup of activities at SM Supermalls, from beginner-friendly clinics to regular tournaments and free-play sessions. Step onto the court, rally with fellow players, and enjoy the fast-growing sport in a lively and welcoming environment.

With guidance from experienced coaches, even first-timers can quickly get into the game, making every match an exciting way to connect and compete.

Dash into Summer Runs

From first-timers to seasoned runners, SM Supermalls’ summer runs offer something for everyone. With categories for all ages and skill levels, each event is a chance to stay active, celebrate milestones, and be part of a vibrant running community.

Finish strong and look forward to exciting rewards waiting at the finish line.

Play it your way this summer

Glide, ride, and train your way through summer. Make every moment count and Gala To The Max at SM Supermalls.

From courts to open spaces, SM Supermalls brings even more ways to stay active and in the moment. Jump into games of basketball, volleyball, badminton, or table tennis, or take your skills further with karate, taekwondo, arnis, and gymnastics sessions happening across select malls.Glide, ride, and train your way through summer. Make every moment count and Gala To The Max at SM Supermalls.

For those looking for something different, you can hit strikes at the bowling lanes, glide into skating sessions, or sharpen your aim with archery and billiards. Cycling enthusiasts can take on biking activities, while football and soccer matches keep the energy going across the field. Even e-sports fans can get in on the action with competitive gaming experiences.

Whether you're trying something new or sticking to your sport, it’s all part of a summer where you can move freely, play fully, and Gala To The Max.

Level up the fun at SM Game Park

From shooting hoops to bowling strikes and trying your hand at archery, every corner of SM Game Park brings a new way to bond, compete, and have fun with your barkada.

Step into a world of non-stop action at SM Game Park, where friendly competition meets feel-good moments. From bowling and billiards to arcade favorites, it is the perfect spot to challenge your barkada or take a break in between activities. Whether you are aiming for a strike or chasing a new high score, every visit brings a reason to celebrate small wins together.

Rock your best Summer Fits

From workouts to weekend galas, find activewear that keeps up with your pace so you can move in style all season long at SM Supermalls.

From workouts to weekend galas, SM Supermalls makes it easy to stay stylish and comfortable all season long. Discover activewear and essentials from Sports Central, Wilson, and Decathlon, perfect for keeping up with your summer plans.

Complete your look at the Summer Bazaar, where sweat-friendly gear, bucket hats, and must-have accessories come with exciting deals and promos.

The Groove Dance Showdown

For those who love to move, SM Supermalls transforms into a vibrant dance space filled with rhythm and energy. Join workshops, learn new routines, and take the spotlight as you bring your best moves to the floor.

Refresh your senses with Summer Coolers

After a full day of activities, cool down with refreshing treats that hit just right. Indulge in creamy gelato from Caramia or rich chocolate creations from Venchi, perfect for a well-earned break.

For something lighter, enjoy freshly brewed milk tea from Chi Cha San Chen or delicate Japanese treats from Warabi Mochi Kamakura. You can also go for a Filipino favorite with a twist at Bebang’s Halo-Halo or recharge with handcrafted drinks from Super Matcha.

The summer experience gets even better with the SM Coolers Fest 2026, happening from May 15 to 31 across participating SM malls. From halo-halo and fruit shakes to iced coffee and specialty beverages, the festival brings together a wide selection of refreshing treats from mall tenants and MSMEs.

Customers can also explore these favorites through SM Malls Online, making it easy to enjoy coolers anytime, anywhere. In select malls, Coolers Fest Market booths offer an expanded and vibrant on-ground experience.

From active moments at the SM Active Hub to refreshing breaks and everyday discoveries, everything comes together for a maxed-out experience made for kids, families, and barkadas.

Make it a summer to play, move, and chill—only at your most-loved SM Supermalls.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

YOUR NEXT CRAVING WINS! Discover Award-Worthy Meals in the Metro at SM Supermalls

Drum rolls, please–because your every craving just won!

The votes are in, the winners are clear, and honestly, it’s all hands down, no competition. These are the dishes that carried, stole the show, and left no crumbs, giving bites worth every bit of applause.

So whatever it is you’re up for, know that there’s a grand-winning craving just waiting for you in the Metro at SM Supermalls, where more spots are coming in with more exciting experiences and award-worthy eats that's All For You.

Most Iconic Meal Award

And the main plates that stole the show go to the ones that came in strong, who delivered unforgettable flavors with an impact you can never forget. No words left to say other than these eats definitely understood the assignment. 

• Azela by Balay Dako

The best Pinoy heritage award goes to the soon to open Azalea by Balay Dako at the The Block, Level 2 of SM North EDSA with its beloved traditional staples like Kare-Kare and Kansi! 

• Jiang Nan Hotpot

Offering unlimited premium meats and seafood with next-level dipping sauces, the all out eats award goes to the soon to open Jiang Nan Hotpot at the Upper Ground Level of SM Southmall.

• Top-Tier Sips Award

This award goes to the sips that always hit every single time! Taking the stage is Candid Coffee at the City Center, Upper Ground Level of SM North EDSA–soon to serve a lineup of crafted drinks like its creamy Toasted Horchata that balances bold flavors with an easy, everyday kind of comfort.

Let your cravings win and grab a bite from these worth the hype picks. Each one a standout and worth coming back for, bringing together flavors that truly deserve the spotlight only here at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls–All For You.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

UP FOR A PLOT TWIST? Explore Unexpected Finds in Visayas at SM Supermalls

• A Tasty Surprise 

Right when you think you’ve seen it all, something new slips in and changes the lineup. Mesa will soon return to Bacolod at the newly built block of SM City Bacolod–bringing its signature take on Filipino favorites with its crisp and flavorful Crispy Pork Belly or its fresh, savory Tinapa Roll.

Not everything goes according to script, but honestly, that’s where the best parts can happen.

It’s all twist after twist, one minute you’re in a regular run, the next you’ve stumbled on something you didn’t expect, and suddenly it’s the highlight of your day. The kind you didn’t plan for, but made the detour oh-so-worth-it.

So if you’re up for a little scene switch, there’s always something waiting to surprise you at SM Supermalls in Visayas, where new and upcoming spots bring unexpected finds, exciting firsts, and moments that are all for you.

• A Sudden Drip Addition

Just when everything’s right on track, a new name enters the mix to change the scene. Here comes the first-ever Salomon in Cebu, now open at the 2nd Level of SM J Mall–bringing in performance-driven design that moves seamlessly between function and everyday wear, adding a fresh, unexpected edge to your usual lineup. 

This is your cue to go off script and explore, because the best things usually show themselves when you didn’t make plans to find it. Discover more firsts and experiences only here at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls–All For You.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

You’re Romanticizing Life with All These FIRSTS IN ZAMBOANGA at SM Supermalls

Career, hobbies, social life, relationships—with so many things vying for our attention, sometimes it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters: living in the moment and finding joy in the mundane.

Now, picture this: a Saturday afternoon stroll, slow weekends, a cup of tea in hand. Honestly, when’s the last time you allowed yourself to pause for a while and breathe in times like these? To idealize each and every waking moment, making them seem grander than they are—have you ever wondered what it’s like to fall in love with life again?

Well, wander no more, because here at your most-loved SM Supermalls, we’ll show you what it’s like to live with intention and make your happiness the central plot of your own story. From fresh new eats to new finds and experiences to discover, SM City Zamboanga is here to help you imagine what it’s like to experience the best from your point of view.

Moments Become Worth Savoring

All of a sudden, the food tastes better. You get to enjoy each meal as if you’re savoring it for the first time—each soft bite, each aromatic note—details you previously didn’t notice now bring a smile to your face with every spoonful.

• JCO Reserve

Located at the Upper Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, a sweeter kind of pause in your day awaits. Here at the first-in-Mindanao JCO Reserve, coffee and treats feel elevated into little rituals—smooth sips and soft bites that make everything feel just a bit more special than usual.

• BOTEJYU

Featuring the  first-in-Zamboanga Botejyu, a true celebration of Japanese comfort food unfolds at the Lower Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, where every dish feels warm, familiar, and deeply satisfying. From hearty okonomiyaki to freshly cooked noodles, rice bowls, and sizzling teppan-style favorites, it’s a table filled with flavors meant to be savored and remembered.

• The Matcha Tokyo

Located on the Third Level of the mall, The Matcha Tokyo arrives in Zamboanga for the first time ever to serve the authentic, high-quality Japanese matcha it’s famous for, offering a variety of premium desserts crafted for those who truly savor the flavor.

• Brique Modern Kitchen

With a menu centered on well-crafted dishes, BRIQUE, opening soon at the upper ground level, brings its dining concept to Zamboanga for the first time in a stylish, comforting setting where good food and atmosphere turn simple meals into memorable experiences.Ch

Suddenly, Life’s More Fun

In a heartbeat, life feels more exciting. You are filled with the rush of adventure, ready to set your life into motion and indulge yourself in life’s small surprises.

• FantasyWorld

Fun, you say? Located on the Third Level of the mall, Fantasy World brings a playful escape to Zamboanga for the first time. Step into a space bursting with color and imagination, where every visit turns into a mini adventure full of memories worth returning for.

• Gashapon Bandai

Finally, here on the Third Level, the first-in-Zamboanga Gashapon Bandai brings the thrill of capsule toy surprises straight from Japan. With every turn, you get a chance at collectible figures and quirky finds—perfect for those spontaneous, joy-filled moments.

Settle in Your Own Kind of Comfort

Finally, you get to understand what it’s like to put yourself first. To make your world revolve around what brings you comfort. To declutter, feel refreshed, and find happiness in whatever life blows in your direction.

Step into a world where innovation meets elegance at the first-ever Dyson in Zamboanga at the Upper Ground Level. Touch, test, and fall in love with their sleek technology—from vacuums to hair care tools and air purifiers—that makes everyday life effortless and beautiful.

Here at SM Supermalls, we understand what matters to you. To the tune of the famous French song La Vie En Rose, sometimes you just have to see the world through rose-colored glasses—through the POV of love and your own happiness. Romanticize your life! See what it’s like to experience the world from your own point of view, all for you.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.