Manila FAME 2025 Showcases the Innovation and Continuity of Filipino Craftsmanship

Manila FAME 2025 spotlights mentorship, innovation, and the next wave of Filipino design talent.

Over the past weekend, buyers, artisans, designers, and creatives filled the expansive halls of the World Trade Center for the 73rd edition of Manila FAME. This year, Manila FAME brought together a mix of returning exhibitors, new collaborations, and design initiatives that reflect the current landscape of local creative industries and Philippine craftsmanship.

Industrial designer Kenneth Cobonpue presented a booth divided into indoor and outdoor sections, featuring both new collections and classic pieces from his brand, as well as a section for his online shop, K-Curated. Cobonpue noted that increased participation by returning exhibitors signals renewed momentum in the design community. “There’s a lot more exhibitors this year,” he says. “Many who had left have come back. I think it’s a good time for Filipino design.” He added that while local makers continue to show innovation, there remains an opportunity to refine ideas into more sophisticated, fully realized products.

At Design Commune, Tony Gonzales collaborated with four emerging designers on a mentorship-driven project centered around the theme of natural elements: earth, air, and water. The collaboration emphasized practical design processes and professional development within the industry. “We’re not designing for Instagram,” Gonzales says. “We’re designing for companies.” He noted that while experienced designers have long defined the local scene, continued growth depends on supporting new talent. “If after twenty years it’s still the same names, then we failed,” he says. “We have to nurture young designers and make the industry more progressive.”

Meanwhile, FAME at Home, led by Milo Naval, brought together 10 local companies under one cohesive design direction. The initiative highlighted the evolving dynamics of family-run craft enterprises, with many now led by second-generation designers and entrepreneurs. Naval also observed a stronger local turnout at this year’s fair. “It’s interesting that Manila FAME is attracting more local buyers, he says. “That’s a good direction to promote the show locally and build a stronger domestic market.”

Across its exhibitions and programs, Manila FAME 2025 reflected an industry focused on continuity and collaboration. With its latest edition, the event reaffirms its position as a meeting point for dialogue among designers, producers, and buyers shaping the future of Filipino design.