(Photo courtesy : PCO fbpage)
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Filipino designers, artisans, and entrepreneurs as he led the reopening of the Likhang Filipino Exhibition Halls in Pasay City, positioning the revitalized venue as a global showcase for Philippine creativity and craftsmanship.
Speaking during the reopening ceremony, Marcos said the newly refreshed exhibition halls—formerly known as the PhilTrade Center—are designed to serve as a dedicated space where local talent can present their best work to both domestic and international audiences. The venue features a wide range of Filipino-made products, including furniture and lighting, fashion and textiles, home décor, gifts, food items, and other artisanal crafts.
The President encouraged designers, exporters, and entrepreneurs to fully embrace the space as their own, assuring them of continued government support as they work to bring Filipino products to the global stage.
“I can assure you that this government will support you in your endeavors as you show the world the meaning of Filipino ingenuity through our products,” Marcos said, describing the exhibition halls as a world-class platform that reflects the excellence of Philippine design and artistry.
The renovated complex now houses several galleries that function year-round as a showroom, marketplace, and incubation space. Beyond product display, the venue is intended to help businesses refine product development, packaging, and presentation, enabling them to compete more effectively in regional and global markets.
The original PhilTrade Center was first conceived and inaugurated in 1979 under the stewardship of former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, whom the President acknowledged as the driving force behind the early vision of showcasing Filipino craftsmanship to the world. Marcos also credited First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos for playing a key role in the rehabilitation and reopening of the venue.
He said the Likhang Filipino Exhibition Halls are expected to function as a launchpad for local manufacturers and exporters, particularly as the Philippines hosts major international meetings and events. The venue will provide exposure to foreign buyers, tourists, and official delegations, while also strengthening export promotion efforts.
Marcos noted that the timing of the reopening is especially significant as the Philippines prepares for its chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, an opportunity he said could further elevate Filipino products on the international stage.
Through Executive Order No. 75, the President empowered the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions to lead the development of Likhang Filipino as a national brand, promoting Philippine goods and services globally.
Drawing from his recent working visit to the United Arab Emirates, Marcos said Filipino-made products no longer need lengthy explanations when presented abroad, as their quality and craftsmanship speak for themselves.
“There is immense pride in recognizing our own—materials shaped by Filipino hands, ideas rooted in our culture, and designs that feel both familiar and exceptional,” the President said, expressing confidence that Likhang Filipino will continue to elevate Philippine creativity on the world stage.