The Design Center of the Philippines is bringing Filipino craftsmanship into the contemporary design spotlight with “Enchanted,” an exhibition featuring 15 craft and materials producers from across the country at Manila FAME 2026, running from October 15 to 17 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

The showcase explores how the Philippines’ rich craft traditions continue to evolve through contemporary design, transforming indigenous materials and cultural heritage into new forms of creative expression.

As an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Design Center supports local enterprises through design-driven value creation, product development, and promotion. Since its establishment in 1973, the institution has worked to improve the quality and global competitiveness of Filipino products while connecting local makers with emerging market opportunities.

Reimagining Filipino Materials Through Design

Led by guest creative director Jude Tiotuico, Enchanted reinterprets indigenous materials through sculptural forms, layered environments, and distinctive spatial compositions. Curved lines and softened edges contrast with bold, monolithic structures, creating an immersive setting that highlights the versatility of Filipino craftsmanship.

Rattan, abaca, paper, coconut shells, and locally made textiles feature prominently throughout the exhibition, demonstrating how traditional materials can inspire fresh design possibilities while retaining their cultural significance.

The showcase comes at a time when local craft industries face changing consumer preferences, economic pressures, growing environmental awareness, and intensifying global competition. Despite these challenges, the Philippine creative economy recorded encouraging growth in 2025, reaching ₱2.12 trillion, up 6.9% from ₱1.98 trillion in 2024, and accounting for 7.6% of the country’s gross domestic product at current prices.

Against this backdrop, design serves as an important tool for translating the country’s cultural resources and creative expertise into products that appeal to contemporary consumers.

Keeping Filipino Craft Alive And Evolving

More than a display of finished products, Enchanted reflects the continuing evolution of Filipino craft and identity. Rooted in inherited knowledge and cultural memory, these practices remain dynamic, adapting to new influences and changing ways of making and living.

While global design trends inform the exhibition’s creative direction, the presentation also celebrates the distinctive Filipino character—expressive, exuberant, and bold. The result highlights how local makers can embrace innovation while preserving the cultural elements that set their work apart.

Through initiatives such as Enchanted, the Design Center aims to foster a culture of innovation, strengthen the country’s craft industries, and help Filipino makers find new opportunities in the global marketplace.

Visitors can experience Enchanted at Manila FAME 2026 from October 15 to 17 at the World Trade Center, Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard corner Buendia Avenue, Pasay City.

For updates, follow @DTI.DesignCenterPH on Facebook and @dti.designcenterph on Instagram. For inquiries, email [email protected].