The second DTI-Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair concluded with a total of P141 million in combined cash, booked, and under-negotiation sales, underscoring the robust demand for Filipino wedding products and services. The three-day event, organized by the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) Competitiveness and Innovation Group, took place at the SMX Convention Center in SM Aura Premier and featured 107 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Expansion from Inaugural Run
This year's fair marked a significant expansion from its inaugural edition, which hosted 80 MSMEs and recorded P113 million in sales. The event welcomed 27 first-time exhibitors, providing more local businesses with opportunities to reach new customers. The initiative was driven by the shared vision of DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque and Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza D. Bautista to help MSMEs scale into larger markets.
Diverse Wedding Offerings
Visitors explored a wide array of wedding products and services, including bridal gowns, jewelry, catering, photography, and modern attractions like interactive "glambot" video booths. Secretary Roque emphasized that the fair gives small businesses a platform to grow, connect with major buyers, and showcase Filipino craftsmanship in the country's thriving wedding industry.
Entrepreneur Success Stories
Entrepreneur Maw Maridul, founder of home décor and fashion brand Malingkat Weaves, noted that the fair provided valuable exposure for her business, which features handwoven Mindanao fabrics. According to Maridul, DTI trade fairs not only attract retail customers but also create opportunities to connect with corporate and institutional clients.
Celebrity and Couple Attendance
The event also drew actress Thea Tolentino, who is preparing for her own wedding. She appreciated the fair's focus on locally made products and discovered several Filipino suppliers she had not encountered before, particularly for bridal party gifts. Soon-to-be-married couple Marvein Manucum and Blanca Duadua visited the fair in search of personalized wedding details, including a traditional Filipiniana gown and customized wooden souvenirs.
E-commerce and Digital Support
To help local businesses strengthen their online presence, the fair featured e-commerce pavilions where exhibitors learned about free digital platforms and DTI programs designed to connect MSMEs with wholesale buyers and expand their market reach. The Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP organized the event in partnership with the Export Marketing Bureau and DTI regional and provincial offices.
