Manila FAME 2025 Blooms with Filipino Design Excellence
Manila FAME 2025 celebrates the finest of nature-inspired Filipino artistry and sustainable creativity.
Words Mikaelah Bianca Panopio
Photos courtesy of Manila FAME
October 31, 2025
Manila FAME officially opened at the World Trade Center Manila in Pasay City with the theme “Objects of Nature.” This year’s edition is a tribute to the country’s lush landscapes, rich resources, and spirited wildlife—the very elements that inspire Filipino artistry and craftsmanship.
The event has been opening doors for Filipino artisans and designers since its inception in 1983. Now, on its 73rd run, it goes back to its roots: nature.
Organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the export promotion arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Manila FAME continues to be the country’s premier home, fashion, and lifestyle products trade show.
With the theme “Objects of Nature,” Manila FAME 2025 goes to the heart of what Filipino artistry and craftsmanship do best.
The event was formally unveiled with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by distinguished guests and VIPs, marking the start of this year’s vibrant three-day showcase.
With more than 300 local and international exhibitors and over 2,000 curated pieces, ranging from handmade furniture and captivating art installations to intricate jewelry and authentically crafted artisanal products, the venue was transformed into a vast living gallery of design and innovation.
Rooted in Nature
Triboa Bay
This year’s Manila FAME highlights five standout settings. Design Commune: Elements of Nature centers on the myriad works of renowned designer Tony Gonzales and his mentees as they transform home and holiday decor into an extension of nature.
Meanwhile, Design Commune: Home at FAME spotlights the creations of award-winning designer Milo Naval, along with 10 manufacturers, showcasing furniture and lighting that blend the beauty of nature with modern design and cultural storytelling.
A remarkable collection of never-before-seen pieces developed by 11 Filipino designers through the first-ever FASHIONPhilippines in Milan, an international mentorship and exhibition program by CITEM, is also featured.
Artisans Village
Artisans Village celebrates the artistry of regional artisans from across the country, including those from Bohol, Ilocos Sur, Quirino, and Tarlac. Each of the offerings is skillfully made using provinces’ indigenous materials such as natural fibers, fossilized leaves, and woods.
Lastly, the Philippine Components showcase inventive architectural and interior elements, such as coverings, brackets, and fittings, made with natural materials—parts that transform spaces and help create a beautiful whole.
A Legacy of Excellence
Beyond the fascinating exhibitions, the winners of the prestigious KATHA Awards, which recognize and take to the center stage the best of Filipino brilliance in product design and innovation, were presented.
Photo courtesy of Manila FAME’s website
Among the winners were Kenneth Cobonque for Best Booth Design and Best Product Design - Furniture, Lamps & Lighting, Arnel Papa for Best Product Design - Fashion, and Hacienda Crafts for Special Citation: Eco-Design and Best Product Design - Home Decor.
The Manila FAME 2025 ran from October 16 to 19, marking three days of celebration of nature-inspired Filipino creativity. Its decades-long presence is a testament to CITEM’s steadfast mission to bring homegrown products to the international stage.
