DUMAGUETE CITY — At 94, Emma Zamora Demerre of Dumaguete City proves that passion knows no age. She is the oldest artisan at the 40th Negros Trade Fair, captivating visitors with her handcrafted jewelry and native crafts at SMX Convention Center Aura until September 27, 2026.
A Lifetime of Craftsmanship on Display
Demerre’s booth has become a pilgrimage site for fairgoers seeking authentic Negros Oriental artistry. Her original designs, ranging from delicate fashion accessories to traditional native crafts, reflect decades of dedication to her trade. Each piece carries the unmistakable mark of hands that have been creating for a lifetime.
Her presence at the milestone edition of the country’s longest‑running provincial trade fair sends a powerful message. Creativity is not confined by age, and the stories embedded in handmade goods cannot be replicated by machines. Visitors who stop by her display leave with more than a purchase; they carry a piece of living heritage.
Negros Oriental’s Creative Spirit Takes Center Stage
Demerre is not alone in representing the province. Seventeen homegrown brands from Negros Oriental are participating under the “Butlak” theme, which means “to bloom” or “daybreak.” The lineup includes Adorno, Negros Coffee House, Art in Motion, PINIKO.ph, StyleLoft Caftans, Etcetera by Donessa, Tadhana Finds, Stitches and Tales, and Solamie Parfums.
Food producers like Antonio’s Køkken, Tablea ni Lola Beta, Nico Cacao, and Coco Cella bring the flavors of Dumaguete and beyond to Manila. Ethnika, Kabtangan, and Sans Rival complete the diverse roster. Together, they showcase the province’s entrepreneurial spirit and the breadth of its creative output.
A Fair That Celebrates Generations
The Negros Trade Fair, organized by the Association of Negros Producers, features 178 exhibitors from Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, and Bacolod City. The theme “Butlak” captures the fair’s 40‑year journey of nurturing small businesses into thriving enterprises. It is a story of courage, creativity, and the enduring spirit of the Negros Island Region.
Fair chairperson Mary Ann Colmenares noted that the event cuts across all ages, with Demerre representing the eldest participant and entrepreneurs as young as 21 joining the roster. This intergenerational mix is precisely what gives the fair its vitality. Traditions are passed down, reinterpreted, and kept alive by each new cohort of makers.
Supporting Local Producers and MSMEs
For Negros Oriental’s artisans and food creators, the fair offers a rare opportunity to connect directly with Manila’s discerning shoppers. It brings their products closer to a high‑traffic marketplace, opening doors to new customers and potential business partners. The exposure can transform a small home‑based operation into a recognized brand.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the Negros Oriental booth, meet the producers, and bring home a piece of the province. Every purchase supports a local family and sustains a tradition of craftsmanship. The fair runs until September 27, with free admission, making it accessible to everyone.
