14 local manufacturers and exporters under the DESIGNPhilippines banner successfully secured $3.7 million in initial orders and ongoing business negotiations.
HIGH POINT, NORTH CAROLINA — Inside the massive 11.5-million-square-foot venues
of the High Point Market—often considered the “Fashion Week” of the
home furnishings industry—the Philippine delegation made a memorable impression
this spring. Returning to the premier global trade show, 14 local manufacturers
and exporters under the DESIGNPhilippines banner successfully secured $3.7
million in initial orders and ongoing business negotiations.
The Philippine pavilion stood out
by showcasing innovative home products made from sustainable, native materials
such as raffia, abaca, and piña fiber. The display signaled a strong comeback
for the country, positioning Filipino makers not just as traditional
craftspeople but as modern leaders in design innovation.
For the Center for International
Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the strategic timing of the mission was
essential to tapping into High Point’s massive economic reach, which generates
an estimated $6.7 billion annually. CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo
emphasized the impact of the showcase, noting, “This comeback proves the
world-class artistry and craftsmanship that continues to see high global
demand.”
International buyers and guests at the Philippine Pavilion
The international design community
quickly took notice, with several Philippine products earning major industry
accolades. The Turtle Love Seat by Fifty One All Weather was
selected by industry veteran Rhobin Dela Cruz for the market’s influential
Style Spotters Program, which identifies the event’s top trendsetting products.
Concurrently, the FolioLux Collection by That One Piece was named
an Editor’s Pick by the leading trade publication Home Accents Today.
Prominent design media also
featured the delegation’s work. Business of Home highlighted A.
Garcia Crafts’ Pamela Wire Chair and Southsea Veneer’s Frente side
table in its Spring 2026 Designer’s Guide to High Point Market.
Meanwhile, industry authority Furniture Today singled out
Aerostone’s Estrella Dining Table, alongside the Turtle and Pamela chairs,
as standout pieces to watch.
Beyond finished furniture, the
pavilion’s display of raw Philippine components, material coverings, and custom
fittings drew heavy foot traffic. Global buyers and designers spent time
examining the material quality and technical execution, validating the
country’s competitive edge in manufacturing. This high engagement attracted
prominent international brands and retailers, including Clive Daniel Home, Made
Goods, Palecek, The Phillips Collection, and Urban Outfitters.
The 14-strong Philippine delegation at High Point Market 2026
For those unable to attend the
North Carolina event, a curated selection of these award-winning pieces is
currently on display at the Likhang Filipino Window Display at The
Philippine Center (556 5th Ave, New York), running through September 2026.
To experience the full breadth of
Philippine design firsthand, CITEM is also organizing Manila FAME, the
country’s premier home, fashion, and lifestyle trade show. The event is
scheduled to take place at the World Trade Center Metro Manila from October
15–17, 2026.