An Immersive Experience into Our Cultural Heritage

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The National Arts and Crafts Fair (NACF), a flagship platform that showcases the rich cultural heritage of indigenous crafts, arts, and traditions. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP) and the DTI Regional and Provincial Offices, in collaboration with the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), together with the Office of Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda. Said event will be staged from October 4-8 at the Megatrade Halls 1-3 in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

The NACF is a national fair dedicated exclusively to our homegrown creative industries. A significant initiative conceptualized by Senator Legarda in 2016 aimed at preserving the country’s cultural heritage. Likewise, it promotes the economic viability of indigenous arts and crafts.

Pre-pandemic, the five NACFs held from 2016 to 2019 were able to generate revenues of Php 114 million for its exhibitors.

Now back in the spotlight after a three-year hiatus, more than 200 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the country’s 17 regions have been carefully curated for the 2023 NACF. The said event will feature traditional products such as Philippine fabrics, handwoven items and handicrafts, as well as contemporary interpretations in the form of handmade ornaments, handcrafted jewelry, woven apparel, and home décor.

Beyond the economic empowerment of indigenous communities and local artisans, NACF will also stage educational activities for the attendees – an opportunity to delve deeper into the cultural significance of our artistic traditions through workshops, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits. Aspiring entrepreneurs will find valuable resources and business insights during dedicated talks and sessions.

Most significantly, the daily program will feature presentations from the various Schools of Living Traditions from all over the regions, providing an immersive experience into the rich and diverse cultural resources of our people. END