Iloilo City has been recognized as one of the Outstanding Local Government Unit (LGU) Partners by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) during Manila FAME 2026: Bloom, held from October 15 to 17 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City.
Mayor Raisa S. Treñas received the certificate of recognition from CITEM, acknowledging the city’s efforts and partnerships in supporting local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and promoting Ilonggo craftsmanship in national and international markets.
The recognition coincided with the participation of eight Ilonggo MSMEs in Manila FAME, one of the country’s premier international trade exhibitions for home, fashion, and lifestyle products.
Carrying the theme “Bloom,” this year’s exhibition brought together Filipino designers, manufacturers, and artisans to showcase innovative products, contemporary designs, and traditional craftsmanship to domestic and international buyers.
Eight Ilonggo MSMEs Showcase Local Products
Eight MSMEs represented Iloilo City at the three-day exhibition, highlighting locally crafted products that reflect the city’s rich heritage, creativity, and growing design industry.
The participating enterprises were:
- Wuthle Association
- Salngan Livelihood MP
- Indag-an Primary Multi-Purpose Cooperative
- Lampirong Collection
- Iloilo Capiz Shell, Flowers and Antiques
- Owlkemy Curious
- Rattanology
- Cuaycong Native Products
Their participation provided opportunities to introduce Ilonggo-made products to potential buyers, establish business connections, and explore new markets beyond Western Visayas.
The exhibition also highlighted how traditional materials, local artistry, and contemporary design can come together to create products with broader commercial appeal.
Ilonggo Designer Earns KATHA Awards Recognition
Adding to Iloilo’s achievements at Manila FAME 2026, Erik Castelo Philippines (EJC Fashion House) earned recognition at the prestigious KATHA Awards for its creation, Panaynon Silak Grove Obelisks, under the Best Product Design for Home/Holiday Décor, Houseware, Gifts & Toys category.
The KATHA Awards celebrate outstanding product designs showcased at Manila FAME, recognizing creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship among Filipino designers and manufacturers.
The recognition highlighted the creative vision of Ilonggo designers and artisans, whose works draw inspiration from local culture while embracing contemporary design.
It also demonstrated the potential of Iloilo’s creative industries to gain recognition in the competitive national design market.
Mayor Treñas Visits Iloilo Booth
On October 15, Mayor Treñas visited the Iloilo exhibition booth during the opening day of Manila FAME 2026 to personally show her support for the participating entrepreneurs and artisans.
Together with CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo, the mayor highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration in helping local enterprises reach wider markets and promote Filipino craftsmanship.
The city government’s participation reflects its continuing efforts to support MSME development, strengthen the local creative economy, and provide opportunities for Ilonggo entrepreneurs to expand their businesses.
Public-Private Partnerships Support Ilonggo Enterprises
Iloilo City’s participation in Manila FAME 2026 was made possible through the collaboration of government agencies, business organizations, and private-sector partners.
These included the Iloilo City Government, Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council, MORE Power, Iloilo City Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Office, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 6, DTI Iloilo, and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) – Iloilo Chapter, Inc.
The partnerships helped provide a platform for local enterprises to showcase their craftsmanship, strengthen industry connections, and explore opportunities in the home, fashion, and lifestyle sectors.
By supporting participation in major trade exhibitions, the city and its partners aim to help MSMEs improve market access, gain greater visibility, and become more competitive in the creative economy.
Bringing Ilonggo Creativity to the Global Stage
Iloilo City’s recognition as an Outstanding LGU Partner, alongside the KATHA Awards achievement of EJC Fashion House and the participation of eight local MSMEs, marked another milestone in the city’s efforts to promote its creative industries.
Beyond showcasing products, Manila FAME 2026 served as an opportunity to present Iloilo’s cultural identity, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial talent to a broader audience.
The exhibition demonstrated how local traditions and innovative design can create new business opportunities while preserving the artistry and heritage of Ilonggo communities.
With continued support from government and private-sector partners, Iloilo City seeks to help more local enterprises enter larger markets and bring Ilonggo-made products to customers across the Philippines and abroad.
Rooted in heritage and driven by innovation, Ilonggo creativity continues to bloom from Iloilo to the world.
