LONDON - The Philippines joined dozens of countries at an international fund-raising event in West London, organized by non-profit group Children and Families Across Borders (CFAB).

The 51st World Spring Fair, held at Kensington Town Hall, attracted hundreds of buyers and sellers of global arts and crafts in support of the charity.

The Philippine stall had a large selection of Filipino goods, including beaded jewelries, straw hats, wooden bags, and garments produced with local materials.

"It's great for us to be involved because it's for a good cause and all proceeds go to charity," said Tere Enerio, wife of Tourism Attache Domingo Enerio III from the Philippine embassy in London.

She added: "The Philippines is represented here every year, and we have a bigger stall this time. There are also more countries involved."

Mrs. Enerio helped organize the stall with private sellers, in association with the Philippine embassy's cultural office. Each stall was facilitated by various diplomatic missions in cooperation with CFAB.

Countries from all over the world exhibited and sold products that are relevant to their heritage, including rugs from Iran, oil from Spain, paintings from Mongolia, precious gems from Peru, coffee from Kenya, and glassware from Belarus.

Other nations who showcased their local goods included Fiji, Thailand, El Salvador, Egypt, China, Czech Republic, Malawi, Myanmar, Ecuador, Armenia, Bahrain, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, Gambia, Brazil, and Indonesia, among others.

There was also a raffle draw and a silent auction, as well as a cultural program presenting native performance arts from different countries.

Formerly known as International Social Service UK, CFAB is part of a global network which helps children and families suffering due to complications of international borders. Founded in 1955, their core concerns involve child welfare and protection in issues like trafficking, abduction, asylum, and fostering.

The World Market Fair was launched in 1959 as a fundraising event for CFAB. It has continuously grown over the years, allowing more countries to support its cause whilst promoting their own heritage.