Manila Fame 2017

Held on October 20-22, 2017, Manila FAME, in cooperation with the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and by the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), is the Philippine's premier trade show for buyers and sellers showcasing both renowned and up-and-coming world-class Filipino designers. This biannual lifestyle event has proven to be the country's sourcing mecca that presents the very best in Philippine products in the fashion, home, architectural and interior design industries. This show highlights small and medium enterprises as they set the stage for the global export trade market.  For its 66th run at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and the Philippine International Trade Center Exhibit Hall, Manila FAME goes back to its roots as each exhibitor is tasked to display their own unique interpretation of the Philippine's rich and colorful heritage through the years.

These are the beautiful creations of Davao Fashion Design Council making use of images that are distinctly and proudly Filipino.

I was first introduced to this event during my BluPrint days. We would always have a booth set up with copies of the magazine being sold, and for the duration of the exhibit, we would write a feature about it for the publication.  Young and naïve as I was back then, I hardly knew the extent of Philippine virtuosity, and how every artisan had a unique love affair with his or her chosen material. I call it a love affair because it is one – how both artist and subject give and take from each other, with every line and curvature being made. You can see this feeling everywhere in the exhibit. The designers have a clear understanding of how a specific material works, how it bends, what are its strengths and its weaknesses. What I love about attending these exhibits is the sheer outburst of creative talent that emanates from the Filipinos. The Filipino design is distinctly unique from the rest of Asia. The feeling is raw and yet familiar. This familiarity stems from the many influences we've had throughout our history – Spanish, American, Japanese, etc. Somewhere embedded in every piece lies the blueprint of the past and how it's transported to the future. 

A dining room setting filled with an eclectic mix of textures and natural materials that are abundant in the Philippines. 

Even if it's been years since my last attendance, I've never felt like a stranger. I guess once you've dabbled in the world of architecture and design, one never really strays away from it for very long. This time around I enter the gates even more excited since I'll be seeing old friends who've landed a spot as one of the many exhibitors. Before heading on to meet them, I walk through the booths to linger and soak up all that Filipino design had to offer ... and I wasn't disappointed. With Christmas just around the corner, the exhibitors also added sparkle to the affair with their rendition of yuletide spirit through ornaments and colorful home décor. 

The designs from Azcor Lighting never fails to inspire. They derive their creations from nature and the elements that surround us. 

Ethnic designs carved on wooden materials are in abundance throughout the exhibit. 

The Philippines is known for its basket weaves. Every province prides itself with their own distinct style. 

These aren't your usual run-of-the-mill Christmas ornaments. These unique Christmas tree decors are a modern take on the traditional evergreens that fill our homes during the holiday season. 

After admiring all the effects of Filipino handiwork, I head on to see my friends. The first person I visited was Tina Campos-Magistrado. She and I met while we were both working for the One Mega Group. I was on the editorial team, and if I recall correctly, she was a part of the marketing department. Since leaving Mega, she went into Jewelry design, and I've seen how she's been making a name for herself. Based in Cebu, Tina Campos Creations Jewelry are handcrafted stand-out designs and has been featured in local Philippine fashion magazines. She explains,  "All [my] pieces are designed and passionately handcrafted by my husband and me. Everything is made to order based on the availability of the materials and time. My Creations are limited to [a] few pieces, and some are even one-of-a-kind. I [make] custom pieces often for my clients, for weddings, special occasions, personalized gifts or family pieces." Tina is fast creating waves as she has been booked for clients here and abroad. When I glanced at her booth, I could see that she has faired very well – hardly anything is on display! Almost all her pieces have been sold on the exhibit's second day! I am so happy for her! Tina is definitely on to her way to success. 

Tina Campos-Magistrado and I surrounded by her handmade jewelry. How can I not indulge in purchasing a piece for myself? Undoubtedly, her pieces suit any outfit ensemble, and I donned a long necklace of her creation.  

This necklace and earring set possesses a color that can smoothly transition your look from day to night. 

This piece gives a modern twist to wearing your grandmother's pearls. 

The creative husband and wife team of  Joey and Mylene Casimiro, are the people behind Patika: Beads and Wireworks.  Patika Marketing started in 2006 and began with ladies accessories using semi-precious stones wrapped with wireworks. Later on, they developed the line using glass beads, wooden beads and other materials such as alum wire, even leather. Mylene adds, "After some time, we launched our houseware line. Thus the beaded serving spoons were born. Stainless utensils embellished  with glass beads and aluminum wire."

Mylene and I go way back, I was once a merchandising officer for a home store and continued our friendship from there. 

Mylene says, "It [our products] became a hit with the foreigners first because they are dishwasher safe and later on with the local upper class because it's an aspiring item. No discoloration or rusting." We also developed the chimes using hangers, old bottles, forks and spoons to widen the design line.

In addition to their utensils, they also have a line of home decors such as chimes made from hangers, old bottles, forks and spoons to widen the design line.

As of the moment, Patika supply to 3 lokal stores, and are already exporting their items. Their production work never stops as the hardworking couple can be seen during weekdays at the Sabado Mercado (Saturday Market) located in San Juan and Legaspi Market ( Sunday Market) in Makati, as well as AWCP ( American Women's Club of the Phils), SMX Mall of Asia every month. All the very best for you, Joey and Mylene!