Threads of pride: First Lady’s LIKHA 5 empowers grassroots artisans

The fifth edition of LIKHA, themed “Likha Ko, Lahi Ko,” successfully concluded its vibrant three-day run 4 October 2026 at its new permanent home, the LIKHA Tent within the Likhang Filipino Exhibition Halls along Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City.

Born out of the visionary advocacy of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, this landmark initiative stands as one of her most important passion projects, designed to preserve Philippine cultural legacy and elevate it to the global stage. The exposition brought together more than 100 master weavers, carvers and crafters from across the archipelago, bridging ancestral heritage with contemporary design to ensure the continuity of traditional knowledge.

More than a mere cultural display, this signature project of the First Lady serves as a robust economic engine dedicated to championing the country’s micro, small and medium enterprises. By creating a direct pipeline between regional creative entrepreneurs and global design markets, LIKHA ensures 100 percent of sales proceeds go directly to the artisans.

While the physical fair has ended, the First Lady’s mission continues year-round through permanent showrooms aimed at solidifying a sustainable local creative economy.