DTI to Mount 2026 National Food Fair, Expanding Market Opportunities for Filipino MSMEs

 

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will mount the 2026 DTI–Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair (NFF) from April 8 to 12 at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall. The event will feature over 320 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the country engaged in food manufacturing, processing, and related enterprises.

As the country’s premier platform for Filipino food products, the NFF will showcase a wide range of regional flavors and culinary innovations from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. It continues to serve as a strategic venue for enterprise development and market expansion.

Among the highlights are food concepts developed by former Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have transitioned into entrepreneurship. These enterprises demonstrate the potential of business development to generate sustainable livelihood opportunities in the Philippines.

This year’s Fair will highlight the coconut industry, one of the country’s priority agricultural sectors. In line with the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), participating enterprises will showcase the sector’s versatility and export potential.

A dedicated Halal segment will feature certified and Halal-ready products. This initiative supports DTI’s efforts to expand the Philippines’ participation in the global Halal market through improved certification, standards compliance, and product development.

The DTI Business Connect Lounge will facilitate business matching between MSMEs and institutional buyers, including distributors and retailers. It aims to translate business discussions into supply agreements and long-term partnerships.

The Fair is open to the public, with free admission. Visitors may access product sampling, live demonstrations, and interactive activities. Buyers will have access to a curated pool of market- ready enterprises. MSMEs will benefit from expanded market linkages and business opportunities.

In line with the Bagong Pilipinas agenda, the National Food Fair underscores the resilience, innovation, and global competitiveness of Filipino MSMEs.

Araneta City brings a video game-inspired Easter adventure to life

 

The City of Firsts brings a video game–inspired Easter adventure to life on April 5 as Araneta City transforms into a playful, interactive world filled with egg-citing surprises and egg-stra special activities for the "Level Hop in Araneta City" celebration. Families can explore game- themed play areas and larger-than-life attractions, where kids become the heroes of their own Easter quests.

“Araneta City is celebrating Easter by putting kids and their families at the heart of our city-wide celebration," said Marjorie Go, VP for Marketing of Araneta City. “The City of Firsts is embracing the spirit of renewal and togetherness through activities that bring people together, which we aim to create joyful moments and strengthen family bonds.”

Easter goodies at malls and World Kitchens

On April 5, the Easter celebration takes centerstage at the activity areas of Gateway Malls 1 and 2, Ali Mall, and Farmers Plaza, and also at World Kitchens through free loot bags filled with Easter treats. Participants simply need to present a single receipt worth PHP 1,500 from any store or restaurant (purchased within the day) to enjoy the giveaway.

Jump into Fun Show Your Style at Gateway Mall 2

At Gateway Mall 2, kids will conquer the runway through an Easter Costume Competition, where they can dress their best — from adorable bunnies to colorful egg costumes— and show off their best catwalk.

In addition to the cutesy fashion show, a coloring activity will be held around the runway. The activity is designed to unleash the kiddos’ creative juices and stir their imaginations. They can also participate in a tote design-making activity, where they can personalize these versatile bags to their liking.

Madison Events will provide additional entertainment to the audience. There will also be a 360- degree photo booth that allows patrons to capture memories in style.

Hoppy Easter Fun Fest at Gateway Mall 1

The fun continues at Gateway Mall 1, where little ones can showcase their best bunny impression in Easter-themed giant inflatables. They can freely jump and hop over obstacles and immerse themselves in an adventure that feels straight out of a video game.

Gashapon, the iconic Japanese capsule toys dispensed from vending machines, will be given out for free in Gateway Mall 1 throughout the campaign. A wide selection of toys will be up for grabs, from childhood favorites to present-day characters.

Beyond these Easter-rific activities, the mall will come alive with the soothing harmonies of the Kids Chorale from Jesus Flocks, filling the space with warm melodies that capture the spirit of Easter.

Easter Bouncy Party at Farmers Plaza

Easter Sunday festivities continue at Farmers Plaza, where more inflatables await keen adventurers. A face-painting activity will delight kids as they transform into their favorite Easter characters or faces straight from their imaginations!

Crafty Jumpers at Ali Mall

Over at Ali Mall, the little ones can express themselves through an Easter Bunny ear painting activity. Kids can create their own version of the beloved icon using their favorite color combinations. They can also decorate Easter eggs with patterns or motifs of their choice. 

In addition, there will be a photobooth to allow participants to crystallize memories, and free loot bags up for grabs. And of course, there will be more inflatables where kids can hop and jump like the Easter Bunny. Before we forget, there will also be a special musical show by the kids from the Center for Pop to elevate the Easter celebration at Ali Mall!

Easter Level Hop Run at aRUNeta Run Club

What’s an Easter Holiday without an egg hunt? The City of Firsts brings a fun twist to the scavenger hunt by partnering with the aRUNeta Run Club! Runners can expect bunny-themed stations and other Easter delights as they run and hunt for that elusive Easter egg. As an added treat, participants will get a free yummy pretzel from Auntie Anne’s!

Easter Sweet Treats at Dairy Queen

Adding a delicious twist to the Easter celebration, Dairy Queen joins the festivities with limited-time Easter offerings that combine sweetness and playful surprises.

 From March 27 to April 6, families can enjoy the Blueberry Popping Candy Tin Cake, featuring smooth blueberry flavors and crackling pops hidden within every bite. Guests can also add an extra dose of fun by topping their Blizzards, parfaits, or sundaes with popping candy for just PHP 20. Dairy Queen’s Easter treats offer a lighthearted, sensory-filled experience that delights kids and kids at heart.

Easter Sweetopia at Novotel Manila

Families can enjoy a special Easter stay at Novotel Manila Araneta City, which has curated a holiday lineup centered on food, fun, and family bonding.

On April 5, guests can join the Sweetopia Family Adventure, a fun feast featuring Easter- themed activities such as face painting, a kiddie salon, balloon twisting, a photo booth, plenty of games, and snacks and drinks. At just Php 1,600 per person, kids 10 years old and below can get access to all the fun, plus admission into the Eggventure Maze and a free loot bag. Meanwhile, kids 11 years old and above, including adults, can join for just Php 1,200 with access to select activities.

Staycationers can spend Easter at Novotel Manila for just Php 7,988 per night, inclusive of two Sweetopia Family Adventure tickets. And to complete the holiday jamboree, Food Exchange Manila has prepared an Easter lunch and dinner buffet for everyone to feast on.

Digital Easter Egg Hunt

Even those celebrating from home can join the fun. Araneta City-zens are invited to join the digital egg hunt by finding the 10 hidden eggs in a photo. Digital scavengers must comment their answer, capture a screenshot, and include the hashtags #LevelHopInAranetaCity #EasterInAranetaCity #CityOfFirsts #AranetaCity, to win very special prizes! "The City of Firsts looks forward to celebrating Easter Sunday with your families and kids,” said Go. “We hope these hope these shared moments bring joy, laughter, and a renewed sense of togetherness

this Easter.”

The Vienna Boys Choir Returns to Manila After a Decade. Celebrating 80 Years of Austria-Philippines Friendship!

 

Vienna Boys Choir in Manila

After ten years, the world-renowned Vienna Boys Choir (Wiener Sängerknaben) will return to Manila for a special concert on April 26 and 27, 2026, at 8:00 PM, in the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Celebrating the strong cultural ties between Austria and the Philippines, the concert will be held in anticipation of the 80th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between the two countries in 2026.

With a history spanning more than five centuries, the Vienna Boys Choir is regarded as one of the most distinguished choirs in the world. Known for their remarkable musicality, purity of tone, and rich tradition, the young singers perform a wide-ranging repertoire that includes classical masterpieces, sacred music, traditional Austrian works, and international favorites.

The upcoming Manila concert will mark the choir’s long-awaited return to the Philippines since their last performance in the country a decade ago. The event promises an evening of exceptional music and cultural exchange, highlighting the shared appreciation for the arts that has long connected Austria and the Philippines.

“The Vienna Boys Choir is one of Austria’s most treasured cultural ambassadors,” said H.E. Johann Brieger, Austrian Ambassador to the Philippines. “Their return to Manila after ten years is a wonderful opportunity to share Austria’s rich musical heritage with Filipino audiences and to celebrate the longstanding friendship between our two countries, especially as we look ahead to the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Austria and the Philippines in 2026.”

The concert is presented by Ovation Productions through a collaboration with the Austrian Embassy in Manila and the support of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Tickets are available via smtickets.com and SM Tickets outlets.

Audiences can look forward to a captivating program featuring classical European choral works, traditional Austrian pieces, and beloved international selections. More than a concert, the Vienna Boys Choir’s return to Manila represents a celebration of shared history, artistic excellence, and the lasting friendship between Austria and the Philippines.

About the Vienna Boys Choir

Founded in 1498, the Vienna Boys Choir is among the most famous choirs in the world. Based in Vienna, Austria, the choir consists of around 100 choristers between the ages of 9 and 14, divided into touring groups that perform regularly in leading concert halls and festivals worldwide. The choir maintains a tradition closely linked to Vienna’s rich musical heritage, once associated with composers such as Mozart, Schubert, and Bruckner.

Don’t miss this extraordinary musical event!

Golden Easter Celebrations and Holy Week Traditions Await at The Manila Hotel

 

Families and travelers can look forward to a meaningful and festive Holy Week at The Manila Hotel as the Grand Dame of the Philippines unveils a lineup of seasonal experiences that blend Easter fun with cherished Filipino traditions.

A Golden Easter Celebration for Families

On April 5, 2026, The Manila Hotel will host the Golden Easter Egg Hunters at Fiesta Pavilion from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The event promises an exciting afternoon for children and families, highlighted by a lively Easter egg hunt. The celebration also features musical performances, magic show, arts and crafts, face painting, inflatable play areas, balloon twisting, games, and more. Designed as a vibrant family gathering, the event offers children a fun and safe way to celebrate Easter.

Tickets are priced at Php 1,999 nett, inclusive of entry for one child (12 years old and below) and one adult (13 years old and above). For ticket inquiries and purchase, email banquetsales@themanilahotel.com, or call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500.

Stay and Celebrate with the Golden Easter Room Promo

Guests who wish to extend the celebration can book the Golden Easter Room Promo, a limited-time offer priced at Php 10,000 nett. The package includes an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room, breakfast buffet for two at Café Ilang-Ilang, and one complimentary ticket to the Golden Easter Egg Hunters event. Booking is open until April 4, 2026, with the stay date on April 5, 2026. For reservations, email resvn@themanilahotel.com, or call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500.

A Meaningful Holy Week Through Visita Iglesia

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In the spirit of Lenten reflection, The Manila Hotel invites guests to join a meaningful Visita Iglesia on Maundy Thursday, April 2, 2026. Following the success of last year’s tour, the hotel once again partners with John Paul Hernandez, also known as The Traveling Salakot, a social science educator known for his engaging heritage walks that highlight Filipino history and culture. The tour includes visits to Manila Cathedral, Santa Rita Chapel, San Agustin Church, Saint Vincent de Paul Parish Church, Pope Pius XII, Our Lady of Remedies Church, and Archdiocesan Shrine of Nuestra Senora de Guia.

The tour is priced at Php 1,800 nett per adult and Php 900 nett per child (12 years old and below), inclusive of roundtrip shuttle service from the hotel and snacks. Two schedules are available: 7:00 am to 12:00 noon and 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Reservations are recommended through concierge@themanilahotel.com, +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500.

Visita Iglesia Room Package

To complement the tour, the hotel offers a Visita Iglesia Room Package for guests who wish to spend Holy Week in comfort at the historic hotel. The package is priced at Php 10,500 nett for an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room, while Php 12,500 nett for a Suite.

Both packages include breakfast buffet for two at Café Ilang-Ilang and slots to the Visita Iglesia tour for two adults and two kids. Booking is available until April 1, 2026, with stay dates from April 1 to 2, 2026 inclusive. For reservations, email resvn@themanilahotel.com, or call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500.

Celebrating Faith, Family, and Tradition

Through these offerings, The Manila Hotel continues its tradition of creating experiences that honor faith, family, and meaningful moments during the Holy Week.

Terms and conditions apply.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit Nos. FTEB-251800, 251992, 251993, 251994 Series of 2026.

Erceflora Strengthens Its Commitment to Gut Health Education This Batang Matatag Day 2026

 

Persistent gaps in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools continue to put Filipino children at risk of preventable infections. In the Philippines, diarrhea remains one of the leading causes of illness and hospitalization nationwide, with studies linking around 80% of diarrhea-related deaths to poor access to safe water and sanitation. This recent health concern shows how unsafe water and poor hygiene continue to expose children to avoidable infections.

Enter Batang Matatag, Erceflora’s flagship advocacy, tackling child mortality from diarrhea by flipping the script—from treatment to prevention. The initiative champions gut health awareness, hygiene education, and improved sanitation, reaching over 200,000 children across different regions in the Philippines since its launch in 2022.

“Batang Matatag reflects our commitment to protecting children not just through treatment, but through prevention—empowering communities with the knowledge, habits, and support to build strong foundations for lifelong health and resilience. Real change begins with the small things families do every day, it starts at home, in schools, and in everyday choices,” said Rica Mateo, Erceflora ASEA Zone Brand Lead.

The Batang Matatag initiative by Erceflora has built WASH facilities and donated refrigerated drinking fountains to over 104 schools across BARMM, Luzon, and Rizal, helping drive measurable health gains and improving everyday environments where children learn and grow. 20% decline in diarrhea cases in partner Rizal schools and a 50% reduction in BARMM schools have been observed during School Year 2024–2025.

Looking ahead, Erceflora aims to reach 150,000 students and healthcare providers in 2026 as the program expands across Rizal and Metro Manila, strengthening its mission to build more resilient children through better gut health and hygiene practices.

“Being Batang Matatag starts with taking care of one’s body, but this mission goes far beyond any single product or organization. We call on parents, educators, and partners to work with us—because building stronger, healthier children is a shared responsibility we cannot achieve alone,” Opella Healthcare Philippines Country Head, Emma Valette emphasized.

Batang Matatag Day 2026: Growing the Mission, Strengthening More Young Lives

Five years in, Batang Matatag isn’t slowing down—it’s scaling up. Batang Matatag Day 2026 marks a renewed push to expand the program’s reach, highlighted by a visit from Opella Healthcare’s executive leaders—CEO Julie Van-Ongevalle, Chief Growth Officer Alberto Hernandez, and Chief Strategy and Corporate Affairs Officer Matthieu Brucker—and partnerships with seven new schools, including Maharlika Integrated School in Taguig.

There, 200 Grade 2 and 3 learners joined interactive activities—including the Batang Matatag Bus sessions on proper handwashing—to promote healthy habits early and strengthen well-being at its foundation. "For the past five years, in partnership with Manila Water Foundation, schools, and communities across BARMM and Luzon, we’ve been helping children look after their health—especially their gut health, which supports 70% of immunity. We want more kids across the Philippines to know this and be truly Batang Matatag. We’re committed to reaching even more this year," Carol-Ann Stewart, Opella Healthcare AMEA President, noted.

For partner schools, the impact is already tangible—and points to what sustained investment can achieve. “Batang Matatag’s services and contributions came at a crucial time, enabling us to provide improved drinking and washing facilities that will have a lasting impact on our school community. We are honored to be among the program’s beneficiaries. More than the resources, your commitment has brought joy to our learners and strengthened an environment where they can thrive, grow, and build healthier habits for the future,” said Dr. Romeo O. Olalo, Principal of Maharlika Integrated School.