The Filipino Chinese Bakery Association, Inc. (FCBAI) is gearing up for Bakery Fair 2025 happening from March 6 to March 8 at the World Trade Center Manila.
Leading the event is FCBAI president Chris Ah, a third-generation baker who grew up in the family business.
“I started at seven, right in our busy kitchen,” he said.
His early years at Liberty Bakery—established in Tondo in 1912 and now part of the 102-year-old Liberty Foodmart—are deeply connected to Manila’s culinary heritage.
Speaking about this year’s theme, “Rice and Shine,” Chris explained that the fair is designed not only for seasoned professionals and café owners but also for aspiring entrepreneurs and home bakers who long to bring a fresh twist to classic recipes.
“It’s about ‘generation’—urging the next wave of talent to step up and get creative in the kitchen. Old-school techniques meet contemporary trends, turning every recipe into an opportunity for reinvention,” Chris stated.
Bakery Fair 2025 has transformed into an exciting center for the baking community, attracting important groups from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Participating groups include the Davao Bakers Club, Ilonggo Bakers Association, Bacolod Negros Occidental Bakery Association, Cebu Bakery Association, and Visayan Baking Society. International exhibitors from Asia, North America, and Europe will also showcase the latest tools, techniques, and ingredients in the baking industry.
“Bakery Fair’s reach extends from bustling cities to remote provinces,” Chris noted, highlighting the event’s broad appeal.
The fair offers an exciting array of live culinary competitions and demonstrations. Highlights include the Baker’s Cup, featuring the “Flour Masters: Bread Baking Competition” and “The Cake Illusion: Hyper-Realistic Cake Art Competition.” One marquee event is the “Grand Regal Tiers Wedding Cake Display Competition,” where bakers—from passionate home cooks to top hotel chefs—will vie for a P150,000 grand prize and exclusive training opportunities at renowned institutes like the Korea Baking School.
Despite today’s digital distractions, Chris remains passionate about the hands-on joy of baking.
“Turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary teaches you patience and precision,” he continued.
For him, baking is more than a profession—it’s a blend of science and art that grounds creativity in tradition.
“Baking is fun, and it’s both science and art,” he added, emphasizing the enduring value of a craft that has been passed down through generations.
Bakery Fair 2025 is not just an exhibition; it’s a hub for industry leaders, suppliers, and baking enthusiasts to connect and exchange ideas. From the thrilling “Donut Dash” contest to the stunning creations at “Cake My Day,” every moment aims to inspire and build community.
The event welcomes everyone to explore the art of baking, bringing together creativity and skill. Whether a seasoned baker or just starting, there’s a place for everyone.
Best of all, registration is free, making it accessible to everyone looking to indulge their love for baking.