In the Visayas Region, I have only been to the following provinces - Aklan (for Boracay), Iloilo, Guimaras, Bohol and Cebu. Although there were plans to visit Negros Island and explore Bacolod and Dumaguete, I never had the chance to do so.
So when I learned that there was going to be a Negros Trade Fair in Rockwell, I made sure to be there atleast on the last day of the Fair to get myself acquainted with this charming island. It's the easiest and closest way to be in Negros by not actually flying there.
So when I learned that there was going to be a Negros Trade Fair in Rockwell, I made sure to be there atleast on the last day of the Fair to get myself acquainted with this charming island. It's the easiest and closest way to be in Negros by not actually flying there.
Entrance Fee of Pho 40.00
This is the longest running provincial trade fair in the country. Negros, known as the "Sugarbowl of the Philippines" produces more than half of the country's sugar. I overheard at the reception that during the early 1900's, the Philippines was one of the top exporters of sugar to the US until world sugar prices hit rock bottom in the 70's till mid 80's.
That explains why when you probably meet an old rich from Bacolod and ask how many hectares of land they own, it won't be surprising to get an answer of hundred or more hectares or something like "as far as your eyes can see".
My Passport to Negros Island says:
"The Association of Negros Producers had a dream: to give jobs to many displaced sugar workers at a time when the province was undergoing an economic crisis.
Today, twenty years later we are not just a group of manufacturers but we are ambassadors of what our province can offer."
That explains why when you probably meet an old rich from Bacolod and ask how many hectares of land they own, it won't be surprising to get an answer of hundred or more hectares or something like "as far as your eyes can see".
My Passport to Negros Island says:
"The Association of Negros Producers had a dream: to give jobs to many displaced sugar workers at a time when the province was undergoing an economic crisis.
Today, twenty years later we are not just a group of manufacturers but we are ambassadors of what our province can offer."
Victorias Milling Company in Negros
Negros is not only known to produce sugar. Thanks to Filipino ingenuity and craftmanship. They have diversified to export quality products such as these fine furniture and housewares using local, indigineous materials.
 Made in Negros |  Distinctive lighting from Hacienda Crafts |  Filipino Made |
 Housewares  Vases |  Pieces of conversation. Colorful candle holders |  Made of sinamay and abaca  Made of capiz shells |
Fresh Start products
There is also a wide range of natural personal care products available at the trade fair such as hand sanitizer, mosquito repellant, room spray, home cleaner, soaps and massage oils. These products are organic meaning chemicals were not used in production. I bought a hand sanitizer for Php 93.00.
Ilonggo delicacies
And of course, there were Ilonggo delicacies. From chorizo pudpud to chicken inasal pate to La Paz batchoy. You'll never get enough of Ilonggo specialties at the trade fair. I tasted quite a number of delicacies while going around.
In general, the whole event was exciting. Even if I haven't been to Negros Island in person, I was able to experience what the province has to offer right here in Manila. That gives me more reason to visit the Negros, maybe during Masskara Festival?
In general, the whole event was exciting. Even if I haven't been to Negros Island in person, I was able to experience what the province has to offer right here in Manila. That gives me more reason to visit the Negros, maybe during Masskara Festival?
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