Now in its eighth year, Tahum: A Pop-Up Festival returns to the Iloilo Convention Center from January 30 to February 1, 2026, bolder and more ambitious than ever. This year’s edition brings together over 100 carefully curated exhibitors from Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and selected cultural creatives from Luzon.

Spanning three days, Tahum offers a thoughtfully curated journey through the Philippines’ most refined creative minds, inviting visitors to experience design as an art form and craftsmanship as a way of life. Its three-tiered layout promises a discovery of the ABCs that make Filipino creations timeless—artisanal, bespoke, and connoisseurship—where heritage craftsmanship meets contemporary sophistication.

Handcrafted with Artisanal Flavors

The festival brings together 58 Main Exhibitors, presenting delicately handwoven textiles, clothing and footwear, adornments and accents, curated home pieces, smart appliances, and lifestyle essentials designed for both everyday living and special occasions. Complementing this is a rich gustatory experience, as 21 Namit Exhibitors set the table with the best of Filipino gastronomy—reimagined traditional recipes, endemic ingredients, and visually sumptuous presentations.

Local brands such as Good Luck, Humans; El Cielo by Erik Castelo; EMGEE by Get Spotted; Gira Leather +; and Marie the Modern Maria will co-mingle with the works of renowned ‘Father of Hablon’ Nono Palmos, alongside the avant-garde designs of Peach Garde, the prestigious Pacita Longos Awardee at BENCH TernoCon 2025.

On one end, handmade pieces invite closer inspection; on the other, thoughtfully crafted beverages like Lemon Sinta refresh the palate. The aroma of Soul Coffee drifts through the space, mingling with the comforting broth of La Paz Batchoy by Netong’s, filling the air with a sense of familiarity and warmth.

True to its spirit, Tahum celebrates craft, culture, and creativity on the plate. Baking Studios by Theo’s, La Maison du Legañes, Gourmet by El Toro Tapas & Bar, and Healthy Kitchen of Myka Perlas come together alongside beloved homemade offerings from Bacolod’s Virgie’s, Cavite’s Yndan’s Otap, and the iconic Empanada of Vigan, Ilocos Norte.

Assumptionistas and visitors alike can take home a beloved Assumption tart—a thoughtfully made keepsake that captures shared memories, enduring tradition, and the warmth of community.

The event also promises a warm and inclusive space for everyone, and well-socialized furry companions are welcome to enjoy the lively creative vibe.

Tahum Art Market

Tahum Pop-Up Festival’s art market spotlights recent works of 45 Ilonggo artists whose pieces capture the history, identity, and aspirations of the Visayan people.

Last year, 34 Ilonggo artists participated in the art market, which also showcased personal art collections from Assumption alumnae, including works by Levi Yu, Manuel Baldemor, and Roel Obemio, among others.

In addition, the annual Dagyaw Art Exhibition of the Adoro Gallery-Museum, organized by the Valencia Family Foundation, continues to support the Assumption Iloilo Educational Foundation, Inc. (AIEF).

Echoes of Hope

Beyond celebration and commerce, Tahum is a fundraising movement of the Assumption Iloilo Educational Foundation, Inc, which marks its 50th year of service under the theme “Harnessing Opportunities and Promises through Education” or Echoes of H.O.P.E.

“Every mindful purchase and every show of support goes to a higher purpose,” shared AIEF President Marjorie Florete in a message posted on the event’s official page.

One hundred percent of the festival’s proceeds support AIEF’s scholarship program, funding the education of approximately 740 scholars across Assumption communities, including Sta. Rita Academy in Sibalom, Antique; Assumption Passi; Assumption Iloilo; and the Assumption Socio-Educational Center (ASEC).

Through Tahum, dreams of a better future are made possible. One such beneficiary is Allysa Jane Sarcepuedes, who began her Assumption journey as an ASEC scholar in Barrio Obrero. She later became an AIEF scholar in Grade 7 and is now pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English Language at the Iloilo Science and Technology University. The scholarship eased her family’s financial burden, allowing them not only to sustain her education but also to attend to everyday needs.

Tahum 2026 celebrates the diversity and ingenuity of Filipino design and entrepreneurship. Visitors can expect impeccably crafted pieces that elevate everyday experiences while fostering pride in locally made products and inspiring the next generation of young Filipinos.

Meaning “beautiful” in Hiligaynon, Tahum embodies the festival’s enduring celebration of artistry, elegance, and the refined creativity of Filipino makers.

*Photos were lifted from Tahum Pop-up Festival Facebook album.