Tri-expo positions Iloilo as key innovation, tourism hub

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Iloilo’s premier multi-industry expo has officially opened, offering Ilonggo spectators and visitors an immersive look into the latest innovations, business prospects, and the vibrant culture of the city and province.

The four-day event, organized by Worldbex Services International, opened July 17 and runs until July 20 at the Iloilo Convention Center.

The expo features three flagship events: the Philippine Building and Construction Expo (Philbex), the Manila Food and Beverage Expo (Mafbex), and the Travel and Leisure Expo (Tlex).

WSI founding chairman Joseph Ang said the expo promotes economic growth in Iloilo and Western Visayas while positioning the city as a top meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) and tourism destination in the country.

“We bring you the three signifying visions we have. Philbex, beyond sustaining innovation, promotes stability and advancement in the building and construction industry,” Ang said.

“Tlex invites visitors to discover the wonders of local and international travel. Mafbex celebrates culinary excellence and showcases the best of our homegrown food and beverage products,” he added.

Philbex highlights the region’s advancements in sustainable architecture, engineering and design.

Key features include the World of Interior Design, World of Architecture, Philbex Lab and Projeto: Ideas and Design Competition – Iloilo Edition, bringing together local architects, designers and industry leaders to collaborate and connect.

Mafbex gives food lovers a chance to explore the city’s rich culinary landscape, featuring dishes crafted from top-quality local ingredients.

The event includes competitions such as the Cake Decorating Contest, the Mafbex Iloilo Flair Cup and the Iloilo Coffee Fest, offering a platform for aspiring chefs and local entrepreneurs to showcase their skills.

Tlex shines a spotlight on the region’s tourism and hospitality sector, offering exclusive deals from leading travel agencies, hotels and resorts—perfect for those planning their next getaway.

Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas said the event reflects the city’s growing momentum as a regional economic center.

“It strengthens our local economy, showcases Iloilo’s growing potential as a development hub, and opens doors for knowledge exchange and strategic development,” she said.

Department of Tourism Western Visayas Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez described the expo as more than a marketplace—it’s a celebration of Iloilo’s culture, creativity and adaptability.

“Events like this serve as a powerful platform to bring together tourism stakeholders, local entrepreneurs and travelers, all working together to shape the future of tourism in Iloilo and Western Visayas,” she said.

She added that the expo enhances the region’s visibility in the national and global tourism landscape.

“This expo also significantly contributes to our goal of increasing tourist arrivals, not just in Iloilo City, but across the region,” Rodriguez said.