Now on its 15th year, the Likhang HABI Market Fair returns with a grander celebration of Filipino craftsmanship and community spirit. Organized by HABI: The Philippine Textile Council, the event runs from October 10 to 12, 2025, bringing together nearly a hundred weavers, artisans, and designers from all over the country at SPACE at One Ayala in Makati City.
Known as one of the most anticipated events for buyers and collectors of artisanal products, this year’s fair goes beyond shopping—it’s a cultural gathering where stories, techniques, and traditions are shared and celebrated.
“The Likhang Habi Market Fair is that one weekend each year when the weaving communities bring out the best products they have created using the latest technique they have developed – methods that will become part of our weaving culture and history, and our identity as a nation,” said HABI president Mia Villanueva.
The move to its new, expansive venue at One Ayala marks a milestone for HABI. With multiple function rooms and easy access to MRT and bus terminals, the fair is expected to welcome more guests while offering a comfortable and immersive experience.
Adding to the excitement are Kwentong Kultura: The HABI Lectures, a three-day series of talks featuring some of the country’s most inspiring figures in the weaving and design industries. Among the speakers are Len Cabili of Filip + Inna, Lulu Tan-Gan, Stephanie Diputado of Namnama Clothing, Rita Nazareno of ZACARIAS1925, and ASEAN Handicraft Promotion and Development Association president Edric Ong, with sessions moderated by Jane Kingsu Cheng, Niña Corpuz, and Wilma Huang. The lectures, open to the public for a minimal fee, will explore topics such as the role of young advocates, entrepreneurship in handwoven textiles, and applications of weaves beyond fashion.
Guests can also look forward to cultural presentations, weaving demonstrations, and workshops—all designed to reinforce HABI’s mission to preserve and promote Philippine textiles through education and collaboration.
True to its vision of elevating craftsmanship, HABI continues to recognize excellence through two major competitions: the 8th Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving Competition and the 4th Eloisa Hizon Gomez Abaca Weaving Competition. The awarding ceremonies will be graced by the families of the late Dra. Lourdes Montinola and Eloisa Hizon Gomez, honoring the country’s most skilled artisans and innovators.
This year’s fair also introduces an expanded food and lifestyle section, curated by Chef Sau Del Rosario, a passionate advocate of Filipino cuisine and heritage. Known for his acclaimed restaurants such as 25 Seeds, Café Fleur, Joop Joop, and Sawsaw, Chef Sau will present his own Café Fleur creations inspired by Kapampangan flavors and culture.
“Our shared passion and commitment to champion Filipino artistry brought this collaboration to life,” said Chef Sau.
More than a marketplace, the Likhang HABI Market Fair is a place for connection—where weavers meet buyers, stories meet curiosity, and tradition meets innovation.
“The vendors get to meet their customers, see what the market values, and improve their craft accordingly,” shared HABI President Emeritus Adelaida Lim. “Every weave has meaning and purpose,” added HABI Secretary Rambie Lim, emphasizing the importance of understanding the culture behind every thread.
Behind these beautiful creations lies a deeper story of sustainability and care for nature. HABI’s partnership with the Mahalina Foundation, co-founded by Mercedes Zobel and Dr. Patricia Araneta, supports the propagation of Philippine cotton and the development of community-based weaving projects in Batangas and Calatagan. These initiatives not only preserve the environment but also sustain the livelihood of local weavers.
As HABI continues to champion the Filipino weave, it reminds everyone that each textile is a living story—of the land, the hands that made it, and the culture it represents. To wear local is to wear history, pride, and the promise of a future woven with care.
The 15th Likhang HABI Market Fair is made possible with the support of SM Investments, PAGCOR, Okada Manila, AY Foundation, Marubeni, 7-Eleven, SGV Foundation, Far Eastern University, STI Education System, and Space at One Ayala.
For more information, visit www.habiphilippinetextilecouncil.com.
