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.”
Laurel’s iconoclastic vision as a Filipino to take Philippine fashion forward was never the I, me and myself —but always US. Never singular, but with a selfless wholistic sense of togetherness. Thus formed a community collective with some of the country’s most celebrated creatives such as Arnel Papa, Celestina Maristela Ocampo, Cholo Ayuyao, Monchét Diokno Olives and MX Studios by Maxine Santos Tuaño.
Together, they solidify the design narrative with complete looks that materialize the vision. Laurel emphasizes, “Lahi” is a storyboard of Philippine fashion developed through collaboration. Bayanihan is a core Filipino value. There is strength in creating a point of view together with other Filipino creatives. This dialogue opens up, deepens the conversation and allows us to experiment, direct and define new ideas and voices. The process was truly exciting and enriching.”
For decades, the seasoned Laurel has become an institution in the industry and has successfully woven his trademark into local fashion history. With all the modest accolades, strong media presence and attention in the design and style world, the master fashion entrepreneur leads the Philippine delegation to Thailand with much hope, drive and optimism.
Taking the leap forward, they present to the world brilliant Filipino artistry, outstanding artisanal craftsmanship, and noble heritage made in contemporary design. With the current government support, Laurel has remained steadfast and mindful of the business of fashion. “At the end of the day, negosyo pa rin ito!”