The Manila Foods and Beverages Expo (MAFBEX), the country’s premier food and beverage exposition, officially opened its doors for its landmark 20th edition on June 10, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, with an expanded footprint extending to the Philippine Trade Training Center. Marking two decades of bringing together industry leaders, culinary innovators, entrepreneurs, and food enthusiasts, MAFBEX 2026 continues its mission of uniting the nation through food while fostering local and international connections that drive the industry forward.
The celebration commenced with a vibrant welcome from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Drummers, energizing the venue as distinguished guests, partners, exhibitors, media representatives, and buyers arrived at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. The opening ceremony was hosted by Ms. Charlotte Ferguson, who welcomed attendees and set the tone for five exciting days of meaningful connections. The program featured messages from esteemed industry leaders and partners, highlighting MAFBEX’s role as a platform for growth, innovation, and community-building such as Hon. Mayor Imelda Calixto – Rubiano Represented By Ms. Angelica Roa Yu; Hon. Secretary Dita Agnara- Mathay Represented By Hon. Undersecretary Maria Victoria Jasmin; Hon Atty. Genevieve E. Velicaria- Guevarra Represented By Hon Director Junibert De Sagun; Hon. House Speaker Borjie Dy Represented By Hon. Congressman Tsuyoshi Anthony “Hori” G. Horibata and Worldbex Event’s Managing Director – Ms. Jill Aithnie Ang with her opening remarks.
This year’s event also supports its beneficiary, the ABS-CBN Foundation, transforming every visit into a meaningful contribution toward its various programs and initiatives. Further strengthening this shared commitment to social impact, honored to be joined by Ms. Tracy Hizon of ABS-CBN Foundation Inc., whose presence underscores the Foundation’s continued partnership and support for this worthy cause.
The event officially opened with a unique take on the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony. Instead of a ribbon, guests gathered around a specially made milestone cake, where the letters spelling “M-A-F-B-E-X” were revealed one by one, symbolizing the expo’s 20 years of bringing together the food and beverage industry. The cake served as a celebration of MAFBEX’s growth, achievements, and the many partnerships built throughout the years.
Following the ceremony, distinguished guests and industry leaders raised their glasses for a ceremonial wine toast, symbolizing unity, gratitude, and a shared commitment to the continued growth of the industry. Together, these meaningful moments marked the official opening of MAFBEX 2026 and the start of five exciting days filled with culinary experiences, business opportunities, innovation, and industry connections.
Experience five days of exciting exhibits, culinary showcases, competitions, and business networking at MAFBEX 2026, happening from June 10 to 14, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and the Philippine Trade Training Center. Organized by Worldbex Services International, MAFBEX continues to bring together industry leaders, food entrepreneurs, and culinary enthusiasts in the country’s biggest food and beverage expo. Secure your tickets now at mafbex.com and be part of this landmark 20th anniversary celebration.
