If you’re looking for a crash course in Filipino flavors, the ongoing National Food Fair is your spot to go this weekend, thanks to over 250 food entrepreneurs showing off their homegrown products from across the country.

Within SM Megamall B’s Megatrade Halls 1 to 3, visitors can walk through the aisles of the Fresh Produce Grand Marketplace. The makeshift marketplace features local produce from eggs to fresh greens and gigantic gourds, giving off a farmers’ market vibe.

For those looking for a caffeine fix, the KAPEtirya Philippine Coffee Pavilion has a range of local brews. There’s also a spot for those who would actually like to sit down and snack at the KAINAN Dining Area.

Kitchen witchery — Kitchen Witchery features a range of spicy local vinegars

Local corniks from Vigan-based Jat Food Products

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Presented by the Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Market Development and OTOP, the initiative, which is part of the Tatak Pinoy program, aims to boost local food businesses through improved market access, product innovation, and sustainable practices. Through its regional offices, the DTI worked closely with MSMEs across the country with the goal of supporting their growth and development, especially with increased access and exposure to those in Manila.

The National Food Fair also marks the launch of a new B2B e-commerce platform called DTI Bagong Pilipinas Marketplace, which aims to increase exports of local sellers abroad.

What’s cooking?

At the National Food Fair, sellers traveled from CAR, MIMAROPA, NCR, and Regions 1 to 12 to bring over their local specialties.

For those hunting local snacks, I picked up my favorites—ube halaya, pili nuts, and cornicks. Visitors will find plenty of free samples from the friendly sellers. Health-conscious food seems to be trending this year with multiple sellers promoting collagen and heart-healthy mixes, with plenty of turmeric, ginger, and honey-based drinks.

You’ll spot some familiar names like Malagos Chocolate and Sonya’s Garden alongside newcomers. There’s also a surprising number of local breweries, including Palaweño Brewery.

Locally distilled spirit Lolo Art MaGinoo Gin

From Butuan, check out the Bidlisiw Foundation Of The Missionary Sisters Of Mary, Inc. with their healthy black rice brew. The coffee has a touch of sweetness with a distinct suman-like taste.

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Ilocos represents hard at the National Food Fair this year, with those sizzling bright orange Ilocos empanadas that’ll tempt you from across the hall. These Ilocos empanadas sit alongside hulking pieces of bagnet and mini mountains of chicharon (all the best stuff).

The MIMAROPA region (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan) feature many banana-based products. The range of banana chip sellers are great gifts for balikbayans, serving at home, or just for munching in front of the TV.

wood made in ph — Wooden handicrafts from Four H in Nueva Vizcaya

cavite weave — Weaves made in Carmona, Cavite

The National Food Fair doesn’t just feature all edible goods, either. For example, from Abra, F. Barcena’s Bamboo Craft features handmade bamboo items from tissue boxes to placemats, which are great for Christmas shopping or adding an earthy Filipino flair to your home.

Whether you’re a foodie hunting for new flavors, looking to support local businesses, or just someone who likes to eat well, the National Food Fair is worth the trip. And for a spot in the very center of Manila, it’s an efficient way to taste the flavors of the Philippines, all in one place.

The National Food Fair runs from April 9 to 13 at the Megatrade Halls, Level 5, Mega B, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City