The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC), announced early this December 2025 at Manila House the artistic presentation “Malikhaing Pinoy: Lahi.”

The 30-piece couture collection by renowned Filipino designer Rajo Laurel is a celebration of Philippine heritage inspired by the country’s identity, history, community and geography, and the harmony that unifies these.

Set to be staged on 30 January 2026, in Bangkok, Thailand, the showcase is part of the landmark partnership PCIDC established with Thailand’s Creative Economy Agency (CEA), a milestone alliance that not only serves to enhance cross-border collaboration and platform for trade. 

“Lahi” is a collective testament of identity and soul. The narrative goes beyond the topical understanding of things such as textiles, textures, surfaces and the like, but runs deeply through his patriotic blood and veins.

His work echoes a deep, strong, firm voice — the voice of the land — who has transcended centuries of evolution reflective of a nation and its people.

Laurel says, “Fashion has been my medium to understand heritage, identity and culture — not only through materials, but through how our people interact, the values that guide us, and how these stories can remain relevant for today and for future generations.”

He adds, “Being Filipino can mean many things. There is no single definition of our culture. With ‘Lahi,’ my perspective bridges who we are and who we can become. Understanding our roots empowers the future.”