A showcase of Cebuano creativity

CEBU, Philippines - The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the export marketing arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry, once again presented  their flagship design and lifestyle event, popularly known as Manila FAME at SMX Convention Center.

FAME,  considered one of the longest running trade shows in  the Asia-Pacific,  unceasingly nurtures  and promotes Philippine creative manufacturers and producers in the global market by  featuring the latest Philippine-made creations from  artisans, creative entrepreneurs and manufacturers.

 Rosvi Gaetos, the driven Executive Director of CITEM, reiterated their commitment to position the country as the top- of-mind sourcing destination, as well as the regions's creative hub. Now on its third decade, Manila FAME continues to offer high-quality export products in furniture and furnishings, housewares, holiday gifts, décor and fashion, all designed, developed and manufactured in the Philippines.

 Cebu, being the furniture and fashion accessories capital of the Philippines, was well-represented in majority of the product categories. A total of 35 exhibitors proudly showcased their merchandises in stalls that were artistic and novel in their designs.

Kenneth Cobonpue is a multi-awarded furniture designer and manufacturer from Cebu. He graduated in Industrial Design from Pratt Institute in  New York with highest honors and subsequently worked in Germany and Italy before returning to Cebu. Incorporating local materials  such as rattan, buri, bamboo and abaca, with innovative handmade production procceses, Cobonpue's brand is known in the world for its unique designs.

Each year,   Kenneth reveals new design works for shows in Paris and New York. Awards to his credit include five Japan Good Design Awards, the grand prize at the Singapore International Design Competition, the Design for Asia Award of Hong Kong, the American Society of Interior Design Top Pick selection, and the French Coup de Coeur award. 

 Ferimar Inc. was established and founded by Iris Arcenas with a mission to be the leading manufacturer of handmade costume jewelry and handbags in Asia. The company located in Cebu is known for creating both basic and avant-garde designs that are admired worldwide. It remains true to its promise by  providing customers with unique products that are made from natural and recycled materials such as coconut shells, baca, pandan, banana fibers and many more. By utilizing organic and recycled materials Ferimar advances to green production and environmental responsibility.

Avatar  Accessories  is  the new incarnation of one of the pioneering fashion accessories firms in the Philippines. It continuous to  produce traditional Philippine wood and shell jewelry and has expanded their range into more design intensive fashion accessories. It has garnered numerous awards and press recognition for design excellence. Another accolade is its  inclusion in the Swarovski "Trendsetter" List, making Avatar  the only Philippine manufacturer to be part of the elite group that counts some of the world's best known designers and brands as members.

Mia Arcenas graduated summa cum Laude from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, California. After completing a degree in Apparel Manufacturing Management, she moved back to Cebu to start her own clothing line that specializes in silk kaftans and fashion accessories. She now distributes them to resort boutiques and retail shops all over the Philippines and recently to Australia, Maldives, Japan and Thailand.

With three decades of experience, Manila, FAME has successfully established itself as a brand synonymous with  exceptional design, excellent quality and innovation. (FREEMAN)