The 18th Philippine Food Expo (PFE) 2026 has officially commenced, running from April 17 to 19 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. This premier trade event brings together key players from the food, beverage, agriculture, and export sectors, operating daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Organized by PHILFOODEX Inc., the expo continues its tradition as the Philippines' leading all-Filipino food exhibition, now with enhanced international participation and broader industry engagement.
The opening ceremonies featured a ribbon-cutting led by the Department of Agriculture, followed by an official program attended by prominent government and industry figures. Notable attendees included:
- Hon. Ma. Cristina A. Roque, Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry
- Usec. Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero, Undersecretary of the Department of Agriculture – High Value Crops Development Program
- Usec. Verna C. Buensuceso, Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Tourism
- Ms. Angelica Roa-Yu, representing Pasay City Mayor Hon. Imelda Calixto-Rubiano
- Mr. Junibert E. De Sagun, Director of the Department of Agriculture's Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Services
- Rev. Fr. Ferdinand L. Bautista, Regent of the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University of Santo Tomas
- Dr. William S. Co, Chairman of PHILEXPORT
- Mr. Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis, Jr., President of PHILEXPORT
- Mr. Ruben L. See, President of PHILFOODEX
- Mr. William Tiu Lim, Chairman of PHILFOODEX
- Directors of PHILFOODEX: Mr. Fernando R. Esguerra, Mr. Anton L. Sayo, Ms. Mayose Gozon-Bautista, and Mr. Roberto Angelo O. Amores II
The event also drew support from foreign ambassadors, consuls, PHILEXPORT trustees, and industry association partners, underscoring its growing global and institutional relevance.
Following the formal proceedings, PHILFOODEX officials delivered remarks highlighting the Philippine food industry's sustained growth and its increasing impact on international trade.
A standout feature of this year's expo is the Culinary Challenge, which pits aspiring chefs and culinary students against each other in a vibrant display of skill, creativity, and innovation. This competition not only celebrates Filipino culinary prowess but also spotlights regional flavors and emerging talent within the field.
PFE 2026 boasts an expanded exhibition floor, showcasing the traditional strengths of Philippine food manufacturing alongside a newly enlarged International Pavilion with partners from Malaysia and India. This addition aims to bolster cross-border trade opportunities and export development.
The event further includes dedicated Exporter, Retailer, and Equipment Zones, designed to improve sourcing options, foster trade discussions, and support business expansion initiatives.