The government is aiming to turn the Philippines into one of the big players in the global creative industry scene, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Thursday.

Speaking at the opening of the Manila FAME at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has instructed the DTI to provide support to the creative industry and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in bringing their products and brand to the global market.

“The creative industry of the Philippines is very strong internationally so we must continue this, and the Department of Trade and Industry will really help as best as we can,” Roque said.

Manila FAME

Organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the Manila FAME is the Philippines’ premier home, fashion, and lifestyle trade show.

Close to 400 original designs will be exclusively launched across different pavilions of the World Trade Center from Oct. 17 to 19.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos joined the opening ceremony to show support to local artisans and businesses.

Roque said Manila FAME is in recognition of those “who push the boundaries of creativity, who dare to innovate, and who constantly elevate the standards of Philippine design to the global stage.“

“Let this day be a reminder that at the heart of everything, we do are our goals to create more opportunities for Filipino foster economic growth and elevate the Philippines as a creative powerhouse in the international market,” she said.

KATHA Awards

During the MANILA Fame opening, the DTI also awarded the winners of KATHA Awards for home, fashion, and lifestyle.

KATHA Awards is an emblem of Philippine product design excellence and innovation, challenging exporters, designers, and producers to take their creations to the next level and cultivate design innovations for furniture, home décor and houseware, lamps and lighting, holiday and gifts, and fashion.

The winners are Finali Furniture and Home Accessories (Best Product Design-Furniture); Bon Ace (Best Product Design – Home Decor and Houseware & Fashion); Azcor Lighting Systems (Best Product Design – Lamps and Lighting); P&B Valise et Companies (Holiday Decor and Gifts & Best Booth Design); PAEA by Button n’ Things Arts and Crafts (Eco Design Award); and Zarate Manila (Best Sustainable Booth Design).

The winners were given trophies and cash prizes. (PNA)