From the artistry of our native artisans to the success of Filipino brands internationally, Filipinos have shown what it takes to make a unique imprint not only here but across the globe as well. However, for a long while, finding quality Filipino-made crafts products had been a challenge.
One factor is that these goods could not be produced at a massive scale, as these were made by small to medium businesses which do not have the manufacturing capability of larger businesses. Secondly, some of these products are considered “niche”, so they do not command the customer demand that would make them easily available.
Fortunately, Filipino crafts and products have become more accessible as of late, partly thanks to the rise of Philippine e-commerce with businesses able to reach more customers online. But nothing beats the actual retail experience where customers can see their products up close and experience their quality and, until recently, the only opportunities to see these products up close is during trade fairs or exhibits of Philippine products, usually held at places like Megatrade Hall, SMX Convention Center, or World Trade Center Manila.
Credit to the government for recognizing this “missing link” to make Filipino crafts and products more accessible. This would lead to the opening of what is envisioned to be the country’s premier creative hub and marketplace for Filipino products, the Likhang Filipino Exhibition Halls.
Located along Roxas Boulevard, just a few meters from the Philippine Trade Training Center and near the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Likhang Filipino is actually a successor of the Philtrade Center, a venue which opened on the same spot in 1979 to showcase top Filipino products to the international market.
For this current endeavor, this was possible by the efforts of the Department of Trade and Industry, its export arm the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), as well as the support of the Office of the President, particularly that of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.
Likhang Filipino is massive complex consisting of six galleries, each showcasing one facet of Filipino enterprise and creativity. Gallery 1 is the main hall for exhibits, as well as where the library and some meeting places are located.
Gallery 2 is where one can find traditional arts and crafts from across the country being showcased and sold.
Gallery 3 is the fashion gallery where one can find various textiles, clothing (both traditional and contemporary Filipino), and fashion accessories.
Gallery 4 is dedicated to furniture and lighting fixtures.
Gallery 5 is where one can find various home decorations and keepsakes. There are even Christmas decorations on display, even if you’re visiting outside the holiday season.
Lastly, Gallery 6 is for the foodies and the health-conscious as it is where food and health products are showcased.
Each gallery is quite spacious and there are so many things you can see and appreciate about Filipino creativity and entrepreneurship. Even if you won’t be buying anything, seeing these different items and feeling a sense of awe and pride is a treat in itself.
Likhang Filipino is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. If you are at least curious to know what quality products the Philippines has to offer, beyond what is available in the more mainstream outlets, this place is a must-visit.
Acknowledgements as well to Likhang Filipino and the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions
