The annual International Bazaar 2024 (IBF) opened its doors yesterday at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, drawing hundreds of visitors eager to experience a vibrant showcase of global cultures, local artistry, and culinary delights.
Hosted by the International Bazaar Foundation (IBF), the one-day event, with the theme “Shop Global, Help Local,” featured 180 booths from 39 countries with 56 kiosks coming from the Philippines.
During her opening speech, IBF chairperson Pamela Louise Manalo emphasized that the trade fair aimed to promote cultural awareness while providing help to the local community.
“The International Bazaar is more than just a fundraising event. It is a bridge connecting the diplomatic and consular community with the general public as it fosters the promotion of cultural awareness and appreciation through an assortment of high-quality food and merchandise from various countries offered in this unique multi-sensory shopping experience,” said Manalo.
In an exclusive interview, the chairwoman shared that the trade show was held annually with the focus on extending help by providing its proceeds to the local community through its programs.
“Every year it’s a fundraising event, and the funds support projects of the International Bazaar Foundation. We have a flagship program, which is the scholarship program. Then we also have assistance to disadvantaged communities, and people who have been affected by natural disasters,” she said.
‘We also have medical assistance, the livelihood project. Those are our four main areas and the focus of why we hold the bazaar every year,” Manalo told the Manila Standard.
Talking about the impact and takeaway that the foundation wanted to impart to shoppers, the chairwoman noted how they could help people in need.
“Well, this is a collaborative effort between the diplomatic community and the foundation, so what we want to do is to bring everybody. It’s a cultural exchange. We have merchandise, we have food, we have performances. So it’s an opportunity for all the countries to come together in friendship for a good cause,” she added.
On the other hand, Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano echoed Manalo’s statement, sharing that the one-day event was not just a display of the rich tapestry of cultural exhibits but also opportunities to help the underserved.
“We share with you the genuine desire to be of help to our people. It is also heartwarming to see effective collaboration in action, from different areas and different perspectives. We are brought together by purpose and passion, a purpose to serve the underserved, and compassion to make a difference,” the mayor said.
