When we talk about Filipino fashion, what often comes to mind are visions of the terno and barong. In many cases, contemporary iterations of these traditional garments also surface. But the thing is, Filipino design is an ever-evolving medium—it often reflects the style dialogue of the present while also celebrating the materials, hands, and craftsmanship that bring these creations to life.

That’s exactly what the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC), is presenting early this year with “Malikhaing Pinoy: Lahi.” Crafted by noted Filipino fashion designer Rajo Laurel, the 30-piece couture collection explores every facet of Philippine identity, history, community, and geography, culminating in a grand display imbued with cultural pride.

“‘Who is the Filipino?’ This is the question I explore in this collection, ‘Lahi,’” Rajo reflects. “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.”

Set to be staged on Jan. 30, 2026, in Bangkok, Thailand, this grand Philippine fashion showcase is part of the landmark partnership PCIDC established with Thailand’s Creative Economy Agency (CEA)—a milestone alliance that not only enhances cross-border collaboration but also provides a platform for strategic trade.

Rajo is not alone in taking on the herculean task of presenting Filipino fashion on the international stage. Joining him are 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 complete the design narrative with head-to-toe looks that crystallize the collection’s vision.

Manila Bulletin Lifestyle got a chance to preview the initial looks of the collection before it heads overseas. During an event last December, the creatives spotlighted several key ensembles. First is the “Mestiza,” a reinterpretation of the traditional palma and camisa/blusa ensemble using woven and dyed jusi from Iloilo, paired with a skirt in raw silk and abaca from Abra. The look is accentuated by black silk royal blooms with coq feathers crafted in Pampanga by Cholo Ayuyao.

Inspired by Mindanao’s festive celebrations, the “Kadayawan” highlights the country’s regional weaving heritage. Its bodice is made of handwoven straw from Sorsogon, paired with cropped culottes using a “jut”-inspired technique crafted from rayon and silk woven in Ilocos.

An ode to the T’boli tribe, the “Datu” ensemble combines paper silk with ramie linen trousers and the traditional malong, accented with a tampipi from Benguet and a giant bead tassel from Dumaguete—a true celebration of indigenous craftsmanship.

“Manileña” and “Bagong Barong” offer fresh takes on the barong tagalog, crafted in jusi and styled with farmer-inspired silhouettes and jute bibs. The ensembles are completed with handmade stampitas by Cholo Ayuyao and lanyard abaniko by Monchét Diokno Olives of Casa de la Mercedes, emphasizing the collaborative spirit and regional craftsmanship of Filipino artisans.

Inspired by world-renowned Baguio weaver Nada Capunan, “Ugnayan” brings together the earthy hues of the Mountain Province and storytelling through weaving techniques. It is paired with a crocodile bag by Masbate-born Celestina Maristela Ocampo, creating a multidimensional visual showcase of texture, color, and Filipino creativity.

Lastly, “Paradiso,” developed in collaboration with Arnel Papa, pays homage to the natural beauty of Palawan. The gown incorporates the province’s world-class pearls with capiz shells from Bacolod and is paired with an oversized raffia straw clutch, creating a striking, ethereal effect.

“‘Lahi’ is a storyboard of Philippine fashion developed through collaboration,” Rajo muses. “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.”

See the collection in motion: