CITY OF MALOLOS – Highlighting local entrepreneurs, delicacies, and vibrant culture, the Bulacan Food Fair and Exposition (BUFFEX) 2026 officially opened today at The Pavilion, Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center for a five-day run from August 31 to September 4, 2026, as part of the annual Singkaban Festival organized by the Bulacan Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with the Provincial Government of Bulacan to connect home-grown enterprises with new market opportunities beyond borders.
Now on its 14th year, BUFFEX 2026 carries the theme “Flavors Without Borders: Empowering Bulacan MSMEs,” highlighting the continuing efforts to provide Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with opportunities for market access, innovation, business development, and the promotion of Bulacan’s culinary heritage.
More than 69 MSME booths from across the province participated in this year’s exposition along with 11 booths from local government units, featuring products from the municipalities of Balagtas, Bustos, Guiguinto, Paombong, Pulilan, Marilao, Hagonoy, and Calumpit, as well as the Cities of Malolos, San Jose Del Monte and Meycauayan, showcasing their respective local products.
Also joining BUFFEX 2026 are booths from sponsors and partners, including Big Ben Ecoenergy, Smart Communications, San Miguel Corporation, Kikkoman Philippines / Ynalaia Marketing, JL Leasing and Development Corporation, Freeway Motor Sales of Baliuag Corporation, Northwein Global City, The First Analytical and Technical Cooperative, Ligas Kooperatiba ng Bayan sa Pagpapaunlad, Filinvest Land, Inc., Grab Bulacan, Crown Asia Chemicals Corp., and Bulacan Bloggers.
During the opening program, BCCI President Corina Tengco-Bautista noted that BUFFEX has grown into an institution in Bulacan and has continued to serve as a platform for MSME development, market access, innovation, and the promotion of the province’s culinary heritage.
“We want Bulacan flavors to travel. We want Bulacan brands to grow. We want Bulacan entrepreneurs to reach new markets,” emphasizing that the goal of BUFFEX goes beyond making Bulacan products known within the province.
Meanwhile, keynote speaker Ma. Lourdes C. Mediran, Deputy Executive Director of CITEM, commended Bulakenyo MSMEs for their resilience and urged them to take their local products to the global stage by participating in IFEX Philippines 2027.
“CITEM is the premier export promotions arm of the Philippines. Kapag ready na po mag-export, punta na po sa amin through the help of the Provincial and Regional DTI. Mahalagang-mahalaga po ang tulong ng local government,” Mediran said.
In his message, Governor Daniel R. Fernando underscored the importance of making Bulacan products not only delectable but also competitive in the market, emphasizing the need for proper packaging, competitive pricing, consistency in quality, food safety, legal marketing, and access to more markets.
“Ang gusto natin makita sa BUFFEX ay hindi lamang exposition kundi maging education. Hindi lamang display, kundi pati ang development. Hindi lamang negosyo, kundi pati oportunidad. Kaya huwag nating maliitin ang mga maliliit na negosyo, dahil maraming malalaking negosyo ang nagsimula lamang sa maliit na pasilidad,” the governor said.
Since 2013, BUFFEX has established itself as the biggest annual food event in Bulacan, actively driving the promotion and development of local MSMEs while generating valuable business opportunities and significant economic gains for its exhibitors over the years.
The opening program was graced by Vice Gov. Alexis C. members of the BCCI Board of Trustees, VIP guests and dignitaries, as well as heads and employees of the Provincial Government of Bulacan.
