On January 15, 2026, the Likhang Filipino Exhibition Halls opened its doors to take a bold step towards showcasing Filipino creative excellence. On that day, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., joined by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and former First Lady Imelda Marcos, led the official opening ceremony.
Situated along Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, its 8,000-square-meter facility represents more than just an exhibition space. This launch carries special significance as it coincides with the Philippines’ chairship of the 2026 ASEAN summit. As such, it is a statement of national pride and a strategic platform that elevates Filipino products to the global market.
The Office of the President, through the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), spearheaded the project. Bringing together over 2,000 products from nearly 200 enterprises, this exhibition is designed as a “concept store” where Filipinos can access Filipino ingenuity across multiple industries.
Standing on the grounds of the former PhilTrade Center, this exhibition marks the rebirth of a facility that has deep historical roots. Inaugurated in 1979, the original PhilTrade Center served as the country’s premier export showcase during a transformative period for Philippine manufacturing. Its construction was completed in 12 days using prefabricated components. The former structure was designed to reflect Filipino architectural sensibilities through a vernacular design language, with its pavilions being reminiscent of the traditional bahay kubo.
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos pushed for the restoration initiative, envisioning a facility that would recreate the PhilTrade Center’s impact while also addressing contemporary export challenges. The reopening fulfills Executive Order No. 75, signed by President Marcos, to strengthen the country’s export promotion efforts. It seeks to position the country as a premier sourcing destination for quality products and services.
The exhibition halls are organized into six distinct galleries, each curated to highlight specific sectors. Gallery 1 serves as the Special Exhibits and Design Library, functioning as an experimental “Black Box” space that traces 50 years of Philippine design history. For its inaugural showcase, the gallery features innovative art chair pieces inspired by Design Center of the Philippines Founding Director Arturo Luz’s “New Buri.”
Gallery 2 celebrates Traditional Arts and Crafts. It showcases the artistry of indigenous communities and master artisans through handwoven looms, musical instruments, baskets, wood carvings, and accessories. Gallery 3 focuses on Fashion, Textile, and Accessories. It presents both ready-to-wear collections and bespoke creations from design ateliers.
Furthermore, Gallery 4 is the Furniture and Lighting gallery. It highlights sculptural forms and refined Asian contemporary designs. Meanwhile, Gallery 5 presents Home Decor, Gifts, and Holiday Decor. It features award-winning products from brands such as OBRA and Nature’s Legacy. Lastly, Gallery 6 rounds out the experience with Food, Health, and Wellness, from artisanal chocolates and coffee to organic skincare.
The curation of these galleries involved collaborating with some of the Philippines’ most respected design consultants. Multi-awarded designer Tony Gonzales transformed Gallery 1 using traditional handwoven fabrics and natural materials. Meanwhile, Ito Kish brought his editorial approach to Galleries 4 and 5, drawing inspiration from resort living and contemporary Asian aesthetics.
Al Caronan, a member of the influential Movement 8 design collective, created a sensorial experience in Gallery 6 that reimagines the traditional Filipino tablescape. The Designer Center of the Philippines oversaw Gallery 3, using the symbolic element of the saranggola (kite) as a unifying theme. Created by Batangas-based artisan groups, the 71 handcrafted kites pay homage to Filipino cultural heritage.
Likhang Filipino functions as a multi-purpose facility that serves as a year-round sourcing and retail destination for local and international buyers. This also includes tourists and delegations attending Philippine-hosted global events.
As CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo noted, the facility represents the fulfillment of months of dedicated work. The exhibition opens to the public for free starting January 20, 2026. The halls operate from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. While the products are only available within the exhibition itself, Likhang Filipino is also working on opening a website that allows people to purchase products online, positioning itself at the forefront of e-commerce.
Overall, Likhang Filipino invites visitors to discover the breadth and depth of Filipino creativity in one vibrant, accessible space.
Photographed by Ed Simon
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