Philippine Artisan Trade: A Mixed-Use Retail Space for Local Artisans and Communities

Grounded on the concept of being a pro-Philippines social enterprise, Philippine Artisan Trade aims to help local artisans and communities have the venue and platform for market access. Through this, various indigenous communities are given the opportunity to sell their products in a downtown location—at the heart of Makati’s Central Business District—giving them a source of livelihood and at the same time elevating Philippine craftsmanship to locals and foreigners alike.

Sustainability Anchored on Three Pillars

At the organization’s core is the drive for sustainability anchored on three pillars: people, planet, and progress. Philippine Artisan Trade puts emphasis on fair trade, ensuring that their suppliers and artisans have their say and are well taken care of. They also aim to work on renewable resources and do their part on lessening their carbon footprint.

• People: Giving an indigenous community the opportunity to sell their products to a wider audience and providing them fair wages for the work that they do are very important.
• Planet: Their in-store furniture are made out of engineered bamboo or reclaimed wood, and they use a solar energy system to power their operations throughout most of the day.
• Progress: The goal is to drive greater demand for the products so that the artisans from local communities will continue to produce and be able to participate in the modern economy.

LIKHA: A Showcase of Filipino Arts and Craftsmanship

The undeniable genius of Filipino craftspeople and artisans has found a proud home in the Metro in LIKHA – a gathering of sorts that brings together teachers of tradition in one grand showcase of Filipino arts. LIKHA has put together a magnificent display at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), inviting approximately 87 community artisans, local craftspeople, and folk artists – all revered in their respective communities.

A natural consequence of being a 7,641-island archipelago is being blessed by many multifaceted cultures, made unique by each region’s equally multifaceted cultural affordances and limitations. The resources that are naturally abundant within each region also become its people’s go-to ingredient when making art.

Regional Artisans and Materials

The following table provides an overview of the artisans and materials featured in the local trade:

Stories of Heritage and Creativity

Individual artisans dedicate their lives to perfecting these traditions. Eugenio Uyagon Bayninan, 74, is an Ifugao wood carver from the breathtaking town of Banaue, Ifugao who’s been perfecting his craft since he was 18. Meanwhile, 29-year-old Tausug weaver Ruhina Muhaimer dedicates more than eight hours a day to making Pis Siyabit, a laboriously hand-woven tapestry by the Tausug tribe of Sulu. In Bukidnon, Mugna’s humble workshop has provided livelihood to over 30 leather crafters and designers.

The Timeless Art of Philippine Handicrafts

Basket weaving in the Philippines dates back to pre-colonial times. Indigenous communities across the country developed their own distinct styles and techniques using materials readily found in their surroundings—rattan, nito vine, pandan leaves, abaca fibers, and bamboo. Creating a basket by hand is purely artistry; it requires patience, precision, and creativity. While rooted in tradition, Philippine made baskets continue to evolve, reminding us of the value of handmade work in an increasingly industrialized world. Each product tells a story of culture, creativity, and care, encapsulating the desire to earn with a purpose for people, the planet, and progress.