Iloilo: Over 200 local and international exhibitors are joining this year's Iloilo Annual Trio Show at the Iloilo Convention Center (ICON) from July 17-20.

According to Philippines News Agency, the four-day event organized by Worldbex Services International (WSI) will be led by the Philippine Building and Construction Exposition (PHILBEX). It will also include participants from the Travel and Leisure and Food Exposition (TLEX) and the Manila Food and Beverage Exposition (MAFBEX).

In a press conference on Monday afternoon, WSI marketing manager Leo Salonga stated the goal is to bring together local and international companies in the building and construction sector, food and beverage, and travel. He noted the uniqueness of the exhibition in bringing several industries together under one show, with international exhibitors coming from China, Japan, and Korea.

Aside from being a substantial business-to-business platform, MAFBEX and TLEX will also offer services from hotels, travel agencies, and available food and beverages. The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP)-Iloilo chapter and the Philippine Institute of Interior Design - Panay chapter will provide free consultations on architectural and interior design.

Exhibitors from the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will also be present. The event will feature local artists and crafts, including the weaving and 'budbud' sea salt from the town of Miagao in Iloilo.

As part of the program, seven schools will compete in food and beverage exhibitions, showcasing skills such as table setting, food carving, and cake decorating. Last year, the event attracted over 18,000 visitors, and organizers aim to increase foot traffic to between 19,000 and 20,000 this year.