text EMMELYN CINDY MAH^43DESIGN SENSIBILITY
It is clear to see on the design floor that the up
and comers of the furnishings industry here
have taken their cues from the international
market. Says Pauline: “While Filipino designers
are becoming more acquainted with global
design trends, there still exists an inclination to
give great value to fine craftsmanship, which is
the heart of Filipino design sensibility.”
And this is certainly true. If there’s one
thing that immediately draws the eye about
the designs on the floor, it’s that they are
rich in cultural nuances, and yet wanting for
no restraint. If it is the goal of Philippines’s
designers to step into an age of modern
aesthetics, they’ve more than proven their
mettle with success on their heels. To this end,
Manila FAME serves to push the industry along.
“We launch hundreds of new collections every
edition,” Pauline adds. “These are produced
through the collaboration between leading
and emerging Philippine manufacturers and
acclaimed local and international product
designers.”HELPING THE
COMMUNITY
The web of production and design stretches
out across the vast expanse of the Philippines’
many islands. There is a real sense of
community here. “Our creative director Mr.
Angelo Cadungog plots and navigates his
unique ideas and exposures through the local
scenery, as well as his travels all around the
world,” Bong Salazar tells us. “He also does this
through his interactions with end users and his
peers, as well as with skilled artisans.”
In an industry where the artisan hand is one
most treasured, it makes sense that furniture
designers and producers tie up their businesses
with skilled craftspeople and artisans. Indeed,
such is the model adopted by many among
Manila FAME’s exhibitors. “Cebu Homecraft
values craftsmanship and works closely with
craftsmen and artisans. The in-house sample
makers that we work with are artists in their
own right, and they work with artisans off-site,
taking part in the development process, and
at the same time, facilitating skill sharing,”
says Apiong Bagares. “Being a medium-scale
operation, we outsource to communities in
different parts of the island. This allows us to
help communities affected by slow economic
opportunities, or provides a seasonal source of
income.”RIGHT
Mocha
tubchair
from Cebu
Home Craft.