The highly anticipated Likhang Habi Market Fair is poised for its biggest celebration yet. It will mark its 15th anniversary with a move to a spacious new venue. There will also be a renewed focus on conscious consumerism. From October 10 to 12, 2025, the premier showcase of Philippine textiles will occur. The event will be held at the SPACE Events Hall, located at One Ayala, Makati. This event brings together heritage and artistry. It also initiates a prompt conversation on sustainable fashion, its on-stage talks. Get a chance to join their discussion through a pre-registration form.
For years, the Habi Fair has been a cornerstone event for culture enthusiasts and supporters of local crafts. This year, organizer HABI: The Philippine Textile Council is expanding its footprint. The goal is to accommodate a growing community of nearly one hundred artisan groups from across the archipelago. The move to One Ayala signifies more than just a larger space. It shows the fair’s evolution into a more immersive cultural experience. “We are in a new venue. We want our visitors to have a richer experience this year,” said Habi President Mia Villanueva. Guests can expect a vibrant marketplace filled with unique handwoven textiles and contemporary garments. Visitors will find intricate accessories and artisanal homeware. All these celebrate the 2025 theme, “Sining ng Tela – The Art and Legacy of Philippine Textiles.”
This year’s Habi Fair has a significant new addition. It includes a dedicated series of workshops focused on slow and sustainable fashion. In a landmark collaboration with Fashion Revolution Philippines, the fair will host interactive sessions. These sessions are designed to educate consumers and designers on ethical practices. They will highlight the importance of material longevity and the stories behind our clothes. This initiative directly addresses the growing global demand for transparency and sustainability in the fashion industry. It positions the Habi Fair not just as a marketplace. The fair serves as a vital educational platform for responsible and mindful consumption.
Beyond shopping and the new sustainability workshops, the three-day event is packed with engaging activities. The popular Habi Lectures return with talks and panel discussions on design innovation, brand building, and creative entrepreneurship. The fair will also serve as the stage for the 8th Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving Competition. Additionally, it will host the 4th Eloisa Hizon Gomez Abaca Weaving Competition. These competitions highlight the incredible skill and artistry involved in these traditional crafts. “We want to give voice and value to the hands behind every woven creation,” stated Habi Chairman Emeritus Maribel Ongpin. “The artistry of Filipino weavers deserves a national stage.”
At its core, the Habi Fair continues to champion its foundational advocacies. A major focus is the empowerment of women weavers. These women are often the cultural bearers in their communities. Habi President Emeritus Adelaida Lim emphasized this mission, noting its alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. “The empowerment of women is an important advocacy of the Habi Council,” she said. “This is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations which we are actively pursuing.” The fair gives these artisans a platform to connect directly with buyers. This connection fosters relationships leading to sustainable livelihoods. It also leads to the preservation of their cultural heritage.
For those attending the Habi Fair for the first time, navigating to the new venue is convenient. Located at the former site of the Hotel Intercontinental Manila, One Ayala is a central transport hub in Makati. The venue is directly connected to the MRT-3 Ayala Station, making it easily accessible via public train. For commuters taking the bus, the One Ayala terminal, situated beneath the mall, serves several city and provincial routes. Those arriving in private vehicles can access the complex via EDSA or Ayala Avenue, with ample parking available. The SPACE Events Hall is located within the One Ayala complex, ensuring a seamless and accessible experience for all visitors.
The 15th Likhang Habi Market Fair promises to be an unforgettable event, weaving together commerce, culture, and community. Attendees will discover rare textiles. They will learn about sustainable fashion. Additionally, they can savor regional delicacies from culinary partners like Chef Sau Del Rosario. The fair is a celebration of Filipino identity in every thread.
