Philippine Food Expo 2026 opens: A grand showcase of Filipino flavors, innovation, and global trade opportunities
The 18th Philippine Food Expo (PFE) 2026 officially opens from 17–19 April 2026 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, running daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, bringing together the country’s leading food, beverage, agriculture, and export industry stakeholders in one landmark trade event.
Organized by PHILFOODEX Inc., PFE 2026 continues its legacy as the Philippines’ premier all-Filipino food trade exhibition—now expanding further with a stronger international presence and broader industry participation.
The Opening Ceremonies began with the Department of Agriculture Ribbon Cutting Ceremony leading up to the official opening program of the 18th edition of The Philippine Food Expo led by distinguished government and industry leaders, namely:
- 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, Executive Assistant for Social Services, representative of Hon. Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, City Mayor of Pasay;
- Mr. Junibert E. De Sagun, Director of Department of Agriculture, Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Services
- Rev. Fr. Ferdinand L. Bautista, Regent of the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management, 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;
- Mr. Fernando R. Esguerra, Mr. Anton L. Sayo, Ms. Mayose Gozon-Bautista, and Mr. Roberto Angelo O. Amores II, Directors of PHILFOODEX.
The ceremony was further supported by foreign ambassadors, consuls, PHILEXPORT trustees, and industry association partners, reflecting the event’s growing international and institutional significance.
Following the formal program, PFE 2026 featured remarks from PHILFOODEX officials and keynote messages emphasizing the continued growth of the Philippine food industry and its expanding role in global trade.
A key highlight of this year’s expo is the Culinary Challenge, where aspiring chefs and culinary students compete in a dynamic showcase of skill, creativity, and innovation. The competition celebrates Filipino culinary excellence while highlighting regional flavors and emerging talent within the industry.
PFE 2026 also introduces a broadened exhibition floor, featuring the traditional strengths of Philippine food manufacturing alongside a newly expanded International Pavilion with partners from Malaysia and India, strengthening cross-border trade opportunities and export development.
The event further features dedicated Exporter, Retailer, and Equipment Zones, designed to enhance sourcing opportunities, facilitate trade discussions, and support business expansion across multiple sectors.
Adding to the experience are live culinary demonstrations and stage showcases led by renowned chefs including Chef Gerick Manalo, Chef Emily Peralta, Chef JM Sunglao, Chef Chris Carangian, and other respected culinary figures who will present innovation and craftsmanship throughout the three-day event.
More than an exhibition, PFE 2026 serves as a strategic platform for business growth, international collaboration, and culinary excellence—continuing its mission of elevating Filipino flavors to the global stage under the theme “Feast of Philippine Flavors to the World.”
For more updates and event details, find them on the official social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok @philfoodexpo.
This article is brought to you by Philippine Food Expo
