Woven in style as Filipino creativity takes the spotlight in Osaka

A celebration of diplomacy turned into a showcase of Filipino creativity as the Philippine Organizing Committee for Expo 2025 Osaka hosted Woven: Philippine Diplomatic Night of Fashion and Music in Conrad Osaka.

Marking 69 years of diplomatic ties with Japan, the event brought together high-level officials, cultural advocates, and members of the diplomatic corps for an evening that blended artistic performance with tradition and purpose.

The event’s centerpiece was a fashion presentation by internationally recognized Filipino designer Furne Amato. His collection, admired for its intricate craftsmanship, reflected the Philippines' rich heritage and contemporary vision. Guests also experienced curated Filipino music, regional cuisine, and handcrafted products that echoed the spirit of the Philippine Pavilion.

The night took inspiration from the theme Woven, which also defines the concept behind the Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka. With 212 indigenous fabrics adorning its façade and 18 large-scale woven installations inside, the Pavilion presents a bold narrative of “Nature, Culture, and Community Woven Together for a Better Future.”

Speaking on behalf of Department of Tourism Secretary and Philippine Organizing Committee Commissioner General Christina Garcia Frasco, Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer and POC Secretary General Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles emphasized the unifying power of culture.

“In a world often marked by uncertainty, we are reminded that culture, creativity, and connection are some of our most powerful tools for understanding one another,” said Nograles. “The Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is a living expression of this spirit, welcoming over half a million visitors, each encounter a small thread that ties us to the global community.”

Philippine Consul General to Osaka Voltaire Mauricio described the event as both commemorative and forward-looking. “The event that we have today is a milestone of our past, a celebration of our present relations, and if we learn from each other, a forecast of what tomorrow will bring.”

Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition Ambassador Koji Haneda also recognized the depth of commitment from the Philippines. “The presence of Secretary Frasco during the Philippines’ National Day, followed by the visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, underscores the Philippines’ commitment to Expo 2025 Osaka and the enduring strength of Japan–Philippines relations.”