The Canvas of Now: Creative rethinking with Hiblatech

Hiblatech is a contemporary platform for emerging designers in the Philippines. Locally made, founded by Filipinas, the brand greatly supports artisans, both agricultural and creative industries and improve the supply chain from source to products.

The brand recently had a design exhibition curated by Yodel Pe at Vestido Manila in Poblacion, Makati City last 23 to 25 January, showcasing forward creations by talented artists from different artistic and creative fields. It is redefining the narrative of Philippine textiles, moving beyond the delicate lace of the traditional barong to a more rugged, industrial sophistication.

By repurposing pineapple leaf waste into Hiblafelt — a versatile nonwoven textile — this Filipino venture is pushing designers and engineers into a “generative space” where friction with raw materials sparks true innovation. It is a deliberate shift from the familiar, urging the creative industry to rethink the very DNA of the objects we live with.

Outstanding contemporary works of Chini Lichangco (designer), Edward Sibunga (furniture designer), Jasser Aguila (industrial designer), Razel Mari (object-based artist), Selena Placino (industrial designer), Jema Gamer (fashion designer), Krete Manila (design studio), Dee Javier (fashion designer), Marc Carcillar (fashion designer) and Yodel Pe (Hiblatech creative director) display the brilliance and potential of the contemporary material.

From Hiblatech’s origin story of convergence and local pride to its visionary progression, it is positioning Philippine material intelligence as a formidable contender on the global stage. A successful and inspiring glimpse of a promising future ahead, Hiblatech is the canvas for creativity for the now.