Now in its 14th year, Design Week Philippines (DWP) 2025 has evolved into a national movement that celebrates Filipino creativity, makes design accessible to all, and nurtures
Organized by the Design Center of the Philippines under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), this year’s theme, “Towards Ginhawa,” reflected a shift from design as a specialized craft to a collective force for inclusive growth and sustainable innovation.
Held from October 11 to 18, the nationwide celebration opened at Ayala Malls Circuit, Makati, and concluded at Ayala Triangle Gardens, featuring talks, workshops, tours, and the popular Design Sari-Sari—each highlighting design’s power to connect, uplift, and transform.
DWP’s reach was unprecedented, with 136 events, 145 partners, and 45 cities and municipalities across 17 regions. From Bontoc to Tawi-Tawi, regional design weeks proved that creativity thrives not only in urban centers but in communities across the country.
“Design is a force of good. It builds communities, strengthens industries, and uplifts lives. It’s not only about solving problems but about creating conditions where people and the planet can flourish together,” said Trade secretary Cristina Roque, noting that the creative industries generated P1.94 trillion in 2024.
At the weeklong festivities, experts discussed how design fuels innovation and local industry growth, with Design Center deputy executive director Lucky Lopez noting that with digital tools, creative work can now be produced and monetized anywhere in the country—allowing designers to thrive without moving to Manila and driving regional economic growth.
Design’s role in sustainability also took center stage as Spanish designer Héctor Serrano presented the TIERRA pendant light, a 3D-printed lamp made from PLA bioplastic and cellulose, shaped like a beehive to symbolize biodiversity.
Sustainability discussion “Greenhawa Futures” echoed a vision of design that restores rather than consumes.
