Pasay City, Philippines—The Manila FAME 2024, the Philippines’ premier trade show for export-ready home, fashion, and lifestyle (HFL) industries, concluded a successful run that showcased the strength and innovation of Filipino design.

Held at World Trade Center Metro Manila from October 17 to 19, the event welcomed over 10,000 visitors, including local and international buyers, retailers, wholesalers, industry influencers, media organizations, and hotel and related services providers.

Triboa Bay Living’s booth at Manila FAME 2024

Organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the Manila FAME significantly contribute to the country’s export industry growth and development. Beyond its economic contributions, the fair seeks to position Filipino talent and skills within the global export value chain.

This year, under the theme “Reimagination,” around 350 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) came together to present their artistic creations, reinforcing the country’s position in the global export landscape. 

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. visited the vibrant exhibitions on the second day of the fair. He noted the contribution of the design industry to the country’s economy.

“There is a very quantifiable aspect to the design industry. It contributes 7.1% of our gross domestic product. When you translate it into pesos, that’s trillions,” said the President.

Recognizing the importance of sustained creativity, the President pledged the government’s full support. “We will do everything that we can so that the world will know better how good Filipinos are.”

Sharing the administration’s aspiration for a robust creative sector, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque said, “President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for a thriving creative industry and empowered MSMEs is at the heart of our efforts. We at the DTI-Bagong Pilipinas are committed to supporting Filipino entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth, positioning the Philippines as a global creative powerhouse.”

The President commended the DTI for its role in empowering these businesses in the local and global markets.

Recognizing Philippine design excellence

As a key highlight of the Manila FAME, the 2024 KATHA Awards recognized participating MSMEs for their outstanding design and innovative products. First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos graced the event and personally awarded the winners, reaffirming the Marcos administration’s commitment to supporting local talent.

Third from top left: CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido-Ocampo standing beside First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, DTI Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, and DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco with the KATHA Awards winners

Six exhibitors received a KATHA trophy and a PHP 500,000 cash price in the following categories:

  • Best Product Design in Furniture: Zulu Bench by Finali;
  • Lamps & Lighting: Fauna by Azcor Lighting Systems;
  • Home Décor & Houseware: Achite Chess Board Set by Bon Ace;
  • Fashion: PISA Handbag by Bon Ace;
  • Holiday Décor & Gifts: Nutcracker Ornaments by P&B Valises et Compagnie; and
  • Eco-Design Award: PAEA Table Runner by Buttons ‘N Things.

In addition to the major awards, two exhibitors were honored with special citations, P&B Valises et Compagnie was awarded Best Booth Display, while Zarate Manila was given the Best Sustainable Booth Design. Each of these awards included a trophy and a PHP 250,000.00 cash prize.

The KATHA Awards serve as a tangible validation of the exceptional craftsmanship and ingenuity of Filipino exporters. The support from the Office of the President amplifies the significance of these awards.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, DTI Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, and CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido-Ocampo

DTI Secretary Roque, Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, and CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido-Ocampo joined First Lady Araneta-Marcos during the presentation of awards.

Empowering Filipino brands

Another highlight of the three-day show was the launch of “Taglay Pinoy,” a new content creation program under fameplus.com designed to boost the global reach of Filipino MSMEs in the HFL sectors.

This initiative was made possible through the support of: 4th District of Pangasinan Cong. Christopher “Toff” de Venecia; 2nd District of Cavite Cong. Lani Mercado-Revilla; the Congressional Districts of, Ilocos Norte, Pangasinan, Leyte, and Cavite; and the DTI Competitiveness and Innovation Group and Regional Operations Group.

Cong. Lani Mercado-Revilla, DTI-ROG Usec. Blesila A. Lantayona, DTI-CIG Asec. Leonila T. Baluyut, and CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido-Ocampo during the Taglay Pinoy digital platform launch

Assistant Secretary Leonila T. Baluyut emphasized the impact of the Philippine creative industries, which contributed PHP 1.72 trillion to the GDP in 2023 and employed over 17.26 million Filipinos.

“These figures highlight creativity’s vital role in our economy, driving innovation and fostering economic resilience,” said Assistant Secretary Baluyut.

Manila FAME partnered with the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. and the Tourism Promotions Board Love the Philippines in its 2024 edition. The next Manila FAME will be from 16 to 18 October 2025. Visit fameplus.com for more information. ♦

Date of release: 30 October 2024

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