CEBU — MAFBEX Cebu 2026 concluded its four-day run on September 13 at the IEC Convention Center Cebu, drawing more than 36,800 visitors and over 66 exhibitors. The food and beverage showcase marked its 15th year in Cebu, reinforcing the city's role as a strategic gateway for the industry across the Visayas.
A Premier Showcase of Food and Hospitality
Organized by Worldbex Services International, the event formerly known as CEFBEX featured a 2,500-square-meter exhibit area with 96 booths. Leading brands, industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and consumers gathered from September 10 to 13. Admission was free to the public.
The exhibition connected businesses with potential buyers, distributors, and partners. It highlighted products, ingredients, equipment, and innovations reflecting Cebu's thriving culinary community. The scale of participation underscored the province's growing food and hospitality sector.
Part of the Cebu Trio 2026
MAFBEX Cebu ran alongside the Philippine Building and Construction Expo Cebu and the Cebu Auto Show. Together, they formed the Cebu Trio 2026, a three-in-one exhibition spanning food, construction, and automotive sectors.
WSI Managing Director Jill Aithnie Ang described the collaboration as more than product display. She said the Cebu Trio connects people, inspires possibilities, and builds partnerships that move industries forward. Her message set the tone for four days of networking and discovery.
Government Support for Local Industries
The opening ceremony drew representatives from government and industry. Department of Agriculture Region VII Director Angel C. Enriquez encouraged participants to invest in the agriculture sector, citing abundant opportunities. BFAR Region VII Director Mario N. Ruinata and tourism officials also delivered messages of support.
Board Member Lakambini Reluya represented Vice Governor Glenn Anthony Soco. She emphasized the importance of strengthening local industries and fostering innovation. These statements reaffirmed the role of businesses and creative communities in positioning Cebu as a thriving trade hub.
Culinary Champions Take the Spotlight
The event celebrated talented chefs, students, and aspiring professionals through a series of competitions. The University of the Visayas–Toledo Campus won the Fruit and Vegetable Carving Competition. Cebu Institute of Technology–University topped Market Basket Batch 1, while Lapu-Lapu City College claimed Batch 2.
The University of San Jose-Recoletos dominated multiple categories. Its teams won Cake Decorating, MAFBEX Pasta Live Cookery, and Tour Guiding: Food Edition. The University of Cebu–Main Campus secured the MAFBEX Flair Cup championship, capping a showcase of skill and creativity.
A Platform for Growth and Collaboration
The exhibition floor featured product demonstrations, interactive displays, and business conversations. Guests toured construction solutions, food products, automotive innovations, and emerging technologies. Each hall offered opportunities for learning and partnership.
Organizers expressed gratitude to exhibitors, sponsors, and participants who made the event possible. Plans are already underway for next year's edition. The success of MAFBEX Cebu 2026 cements its place as a premier platform for industry growth in Central Visayas.