Filipino designers exhibit creativity in 'Malikhaing Pinoy, The Grant 2025'

Several Filipino designers showcased their creative talent in making clothing, accessories, bags, and furniture during the “Malikhaing Pinoy, The Grant 2025” competition in Intramuros, Manila.

According to Vonne Aquino’s Monday report on “Balitanghali,” the “Malikhaing Pinoy, The Grant 2025” competition was formed by Fashion Aid Philippines and the Department of Trade and Industry.

Among the entries were the Dioleta accent chair by Dea China, which was made from hand-woven abaca rope in collaboration with basket makers from Antequera, Bohol, and the "Igurotak" dress by Ira Longshab, which was sewn using fabric from Benguet.

The "Gugma" baby doll dress by Gil Salazar, which was made from fabric scraps, and the Naya bag by Kiko Quintanar, which was crafted from wood and designed with shell inlay, were also displayed.

The competition was organized through the Malikhaing Pinoy Program, which aims to aid Filipino designers.

“So it's a platform wherein if you're a young designer and if you want to join, put your work out there... It's really honoring the creativity of Filipinos,” said fashion designer Francis Libiran, who is also a member of Fashion Aid Philippines.

The criteria for judging include creativity, global appeal, execution and technical skill, originality, and marketability.

Out of the 200 applicants nationwide, 20 became the finalists of the program.

“Part doon is mentorship program. You know, gina-guide sila, to mold them. Siyempre, 'pag nag-apply sila, they're raw talent. So binibigyan namin sila ng advice on what to do, 'yung design directives, on how to do it,” Libiran said.

(Part of it is a mentorship program to guide and mold them. Of course, when they apply, they’re still raw talent. So we give them advice on what to do in the design directives, and how to do it.)

First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos was present at the awarding ceremony, who, according to Fashion Aid Philippines, showed support and help with the accessibility of local fabrics to the designers.

GMA Network Senior Vice President Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, fashion designers Inno Sotto and Micahel Leyva,and members of the diplomatic corps were also at the event.

China, who was the grand winner, said her inspiration in making the chair was her grandmother and mother.

“It's based sa story namin na (on our story that) I was raised by a single mom. So 'yung inspiration ko is them (they’re my inspiration),” China said.

“I think that I want to challenge myself. It's hard to make a chair,” she added.

China received P1 million and a study grant from the Australian Embassy.

The Australian, Malaysian, and Japanese embassies also gave grants to some finalists. –Mariel Celine Serquiña/NB/KG, GMA Integrated News