At DTI's 2026 National Food Fair, delicious regional food finds shine

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has officially opened the 2026 Philippine National Food Fair at the SM Megamall Megatrade Hall, highlighting the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines by showcasing some of the finest and most delicious food products from across the country.

Running from April 8 to April 12, the event brings together over 300 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), transforming the venue into a sprawling culinary map of the nation, with each exhibitor presenting distinct regional flavors that reflect the diversity and rich traditions of Filipino cuisine.

Here's a regional breakdown of the tastes and specialties featured at this year’s fair:

Northern Luzon: Smoky Heights and Garlicky Lowlands

From the highlands to the lowlands, Northern Luzon tempts visitors with a variety of bold flavors. The Cordillera region features smoked meats such as kiniing and etag. Of course, their signature strawberry jams are ever present.

Meanwhile, Ilocandia showcases savory pork specialties including bagnet, empanadas, garlicky longganisa, and the tangy punch of sukang Iloko (basi).

The trending Ilocos Empanada at Gems Empanada from La Union. (L-R: Jade Veronique Yap/Gems Empanada/Facebook) 

Central & Southern Luzon: Sweet Traditions and Coconut Staples

Central Luzon (Region 3) satisfies sweet cravings with Bulacan’s pastillas and Bataan’s cashew delicacies, while also offering fermented staples like burong isda. 

Further south, CALABARZON and MIMAROPA highlight the versatility of coconut, from virgin coconut oil and coco-based condiments to lambanog and the famed Lucban Longganisa.

Lambanog or coconut liquor. (L-R: Jade Veronique Yap/ GMA News, Mang Larry/Instagram)

The Heart of the Islands: Bicol Heat and Visayan Sweets

Bicolandia remains true to its fiery reputation with bottled laing, Bicol Express, and a variety of pili nut confections. 

Across the sea, the Visayas region is represented by Guimaras’ sweet mangoes, heritage baked goods from Bacolod and Iloilo, as well as ginger and turmeric tea powders and sugarcane treats from Negros.

Products from Bicol include delicious bottled laing and the famous Guimaras mangoes representing Visayas. Photo: Jade Veronique Yap/GMA News

Mindanao & Beyond: Cacao, Interesting Fruits, and Modern Twists

As the Davao region solidifies its reputation as the cacao capital of the Philippines with premium chocolates, it also upheld its might at coconuts showcasing products like coconut vinegar and other flavorful blends.

At the same time, CARAGA delights visitors with healthful juices made from mangosteen and miracle fruit.

Products derived from coconuts of Davao. Photo: Jade Veronique Yap/GMA News

National Capital Region (NCR): Gourmet Innovation

NCR offers a modern twist on Filipino flavors, featuring innovations such as mango pizza, smoked vinegar, and other gourmet creations that reimagine traditional ingredients.

Aside from food and delicacies, the DTI National Food Fair also features local craftsmanship, such as bamboo crafts from Bohol and abacca bags from Bicolandia.

With its vast array of flavors and specialties, the 2026 DTI National Food Fair is not just a feast for the stomach—it’s a celebration of the Philippines’ diverse culinary culture, giving visitors a chance to experience the nation’s rich gastronomic heritage all under one roof. — LA, GMA News