PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES - The vibrant culture, rich flavors, and world-class craftsmanship of Pampanga have officially taken over the metro. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 3 has successfully launched the highly anticipated 28th Likha ng Central Luzon (LCL) Trade Fair, turning the busy Megatrade Hall 2 at SM Megamall into a bustling showcase of local innovation. Running from September 23 to 27, 2026, this year's installment centers around the prestigious theme: "Products Reimagined, Made for the World." In a spectacular opening highlight, former President and current Pampanga 2nd District Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo led the ceremonial lighting of a traditional Pampanga parol (lantern), symbolizing the brilliant creativity and resilience of the province's creative industries.
Pampanga Takes Center Stage
A massive group of approximately 151 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—including specialized agrarian reform beneficiaries—have traveled to Metro Manila to market their distinct products. Among the standout exhibitors are Pampanga's own homegrown brands, showcasing the province's celebrated native delicacies, world-renowned Christmas lanterns, intricate jewelry, and complex home furnishings. The ceremonial lighting of the traditional Pampanga parol by former President Arroyo served as a powerful symbol of the province's enduring legacy of craftsmanship and creativity. With an aggressive target of PHP 38 million in sales across its five-day run, the event is specifically designed to help Kapampangan entrepreneurs scale their businesses and expand their customer footprints outside their home borders.
A Launchpad for Kapampangan MSMEs
More than just a seasonal retail marketplace, the LCL acts as a vital B2B (business-to-business) platform. It offers Pampanga's homegrown brands a rare venue to forge profitable long-term partnerships with major institutional buyers, distributors, and exporters looking for stable, quality supply chains. The continuous success of the long-running trade campaign is made possible through unified public-private synergy. This year's fair is organized in a tight, cross-sector partnership with PhilExport 3, the Regional Development Council 3, and the Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation Inc. These collaborations ensure that Kapampangan MSMEs receive the support and exposure they need to thrive in competitive markets.
Elevating the Kapampangan Footprint
By actively guiding micro-entrepreneurs through advanced product labeling, modern digital marketing techniques, and major presentation opportunities, the DTI continues to turn local visions into competitive retail realities. The fair gives city dwellers a direct chance to skip the travel time and experience the finest Kapampangan artisan creations—from the iconic parol to the province's legendary culinary delights—without leaving Metro Manila. Admission to the venue on the 5th floor of Building B is completely free to the public. Grab your favorite shopping companion and explore the incredible Kapampangan finds waiting for you at SM Megamall this week—every purchase directly empowers a Kapampangan community, artisan, and farmer!
