In a recent Business Matters forum held at Ayala Malls Abreeza, Floirendo-Ugarte said this year’s fair will bring together exceptional local brands and artisans from Davao City and other parts of the Philippines.
“Mahayag Fair 2025 aims to promote local artisans and designers, not just from Davao but from across the country. With the Holiday season coming up, we want to encourage customers to support small businesses and artisan creators,” she said.
She emphasized the importance of shifting mindsets that equate imported goods with prestige.
“Why spend so much on European or American products when we can promote and uplift the creativity of our own people?” Floirendo-Ugarte added.
Now in its fifth year, Mahayag Fair has grown to become one of the largest gatherings of local designers and entrepreneurs in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. This edition is expected to be the biggest yet, with participants from Davao City as well as other regions such as Luzon.
Floirendo-Ugarte also expressed gratitude to the event’s partners, including Ayala Malls Abreeza, Seda Hotel for providing accommodations to traders, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as co-presenter.
Last year, the fair drew about 20 professional designers and entrepreneurs from Davao and beyond. Floirendo-Ugarte said this year’s expansion reflects the growing support for homegrown brands.
“For the past four years, we’ve highlighted local brands annually, but so far, this is the biggest Mahayag Fair we’ve had,” she said.
MIM Events founder and organizer of Mahayag Fair 2025, Monica Floirendo-Ugarte details the Mahayag Fair event during the Business Matters forum at Ayala Malls Abreeza. Sitting next to her is DTI Davao City acting assistant regional director Lucky Siegfred M. Balleque.
Monica proudly wears a pretty local fashion brand.
Photo: Mahayag Fair 2025 Facebook
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