Joselito Malig

Article (news)

Mon Rodelas

ABS-CBN News

MANILA — The Department of Trade and Industry has teamed up with celebrated Filipino fashion designer Rajo Laurel to unveil his Couture Collection 2026, which is set to debut on January 30, 2026, in Bangkok, Thailand.This collaboration is part of DTI’s ongoing mission to promote Philippine design, craftsmanship, and the creative industries on a global scale.Laurel said the collection is inspired by a variety of materials sourced from all over the Philippines, thanks to his partnership with HABI, the Philippine Textile Weaving Community.He highlighted the significance of showcasing Filipino identity through local products, weaves, culture, and heritage—a philosophy he has embraced since his early days in design.“I always believe that the only way to showcase your work is to tell the story of where you come from. So, it’s important for me to showcase who we are as a Filipino by showcasing our products, our weaves, our culture, and our heritage,” Laurel said.As he gears up for the international showcase, Laurel expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the robust support he has received from the government, especially from DTI.He noted that the agency has opened its doors, resources, and networks to help bring this project to fruition, allowing him to concentrate entirely on the creative process.“I really felt so supported by DTI. You can feel that we can rely on them and just concentrate and being creative,” he expressed.Laurel described this initiative as part of a larger movement called “collective Malikhaing Pinoy,” which represents not just his work but the broader Filipino creative community.Despite having spent decades in the industry, Laurel admitted that creativity still comes with its share of “struggles and insecurities.” However, with the help of DTI and the Filipino people, he feels more empowered to step onto the global stage, viewing the Bangkok premiere as a chance to showcase the incredible talent of Filipino creatives.“We’re opening our doors creatively to the world to showcase how incredibly talented the Filipino creative is. And this is just a start. Sana tuloy-tuloy na,” he said.The Couture Collection 2026 will feature 30 unique pieces, each with its own story and deeply rooted in the collective history of the Philippines.He shared that “this particular collection was a quest to define who we are as a Filipino,” adding that throughout the process he found himself defining and reflecting who he really is.As advice to young designers, Laurel stressed the importance of mastering the fundamentals: “Learn the craft, study, and always be proud of who you are.”

The Department of Trade and Industry has teamed up with celebrated Filipino fashion designer Rajo Laurel to unveil his Couture Collection 2026, which is set to debut on January 30, 2026, in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Department of Trade and Industry has teamed up with celebrated Filipino fashion designer Rajo Laurel to unveil his Couture Collection 2026, which is set to debut on January 30, 2026, in Bangkok, Thailand.

DTI, Rajo Laurel unveil Couture Collection 2026 to champion Filipino craftsmanship

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DTI, Rajo Laurel unveil Couture Collection 2026 to champion Filipino craftsmanship

Mon Rodelas,

ABS-CBN News

Published Dec 03, 2025 01:08 AM PHT

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Rajo Laurel

DTI

fashion

craftsmanship

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