The Philippines’ creative economy grew by 8.7 percent in 2024 to P1.94 trillion, a figure equivalent to about 7.3 percent of the gross domestic product, the Philippine Statistics Authority said.
The growth highlights the role of design in economic development and aligns with the nation’s plan to promote creative industries as a major regional priority during its 2026 ASEAN Chairmanship.
Leading the national thrust is the Design Center of the Philippines, an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The agency is positioning design as a catalyst for economic transformation, moving beyond its traditional role as mere aesthetic enhancement.
“Design is our soft power. It draws from our cultural depth, our resourcefulness, and our capacity to imagine. When we embed design into enterprise, we don’t just improve products, we unlock new forms of value, dignity, and global relevance for Filipino creators,” said Design Center executive director Rhea Matute.
The vision is reinforced by the first National Design Policy, a strategic roadmap that uses design to drive inclusive growth, social innovation, and national progress, grounded in distinct Filipino values.
The Manila FAME 2025 event, held on Oct. 17 to 19 at the World Trade Center, showcased this vision as the Design Center co-created two major exhibits with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs): The Renaissance of the Real and Artisans Village.
The Renaissance of the Real was guided by design provocateur Tony Gonzales and co-created by the Design Center’s emerging designers alongside 18 MSMEs specializing in materials like bamboo, abaca, nito, pottery, metal, glass and wood.
“We’re bringing traditional shapes and putting fun into it. It’s a statement that the Philippines is not just the traditional kind of craft, but we’re going forward to something much higher,” said Catalina Embroideries Inc. president Joan Wang.
That One Piece Enterprise founder Rowen De Jesus emphasized the impact of these collaborations. “What makes collaborations like this truly special is how they bring all that support to life. It’s not just about improving products—it’s about honoring our culture and making sure our traditions continue in a way that feels relevant and market-ready,” said De Jesus.
For the Artisans Village, the Design Center teamed up with 30 MSMEs from Ilocos Sur, Quirino and Bohol to create collections that bridge heritage techniques with contemporary market sensibilities and global opportunities.
This elevates Philippine craftsmanship and strengthens MSME competitiveness in global markets. Through both showcases, the Design Center affirmed that Filipino craftsmanship is dynamic, adaptive and globally relevant.
