MANILA, PHILIPPINES — As the 72nd edition of the Manila FAME draws near, the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) currently accepts nominations for one of its main features: the KATHA Awards 2024.
Now in its 41st year, the Manila FAME 2024 will be held from October 17 to 19 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City, Philippines.
The Philippines’ premier trade show for quality home, fashion, and lifestyle (HFL) products, Manila FAME 2024, carries the theme “Reimagination,” centering on the transformation of abundant raw materials into functional and aesthetic pieces powered by Filipino design. “Reimagination” is explored in different subthemes, demonstrated at the creative settings: Design Commune Home, Design Commune Fashion, Artisans Village, and two new settings: Nostalgia and Philippine Components.
Manila FAME has been home to many of the country’s top designers and furniture makers, bearing witness to the rise of some of today’s global household names in the field, such as Budji Layug, Kenneth Cobonpue, Ann Pamintuan, and National Artist Arturo Luz, who also designed the KATHA Awards Logo. Some of their works will also take center stage in this year’s special showcase entitled “Nostalgia: The Manila FAME Design Retrospective.”
The KATHA Awards is CITEM’s way of celebrating Philippine export products from Manila FAME exhibitors that embody craftsmanship, excellence, and innovation in design and function, including aspects that embody responsible sustainability efforts. From the materials used to the processes employed and the translation of ideas into impressive pieces, the KATHA Awards’ various categories validate Filipino creatives’ dedication and hard work behind each winning piece produced for the various sectors.
Aside from the Special Citation for Best Booth Design and Best Sustainable Design for Booths Awards, nominations and the deliberation for this year’s KATHA Awards will be done prior to the show. One winner will be selected for each Best in Design category: Furniture; Home Décor and Houseware; Lamps and Lighting; Fashion; and Holiday Décor and Gifts. There will also be an Eco-Design Award for products made with sustainability in mind.
The winners will be announced as part of Manila FAME’s opening day activities at the WTC Lobby on October 17. They will receive a KATHA Awards Trophy, a free spot at Manila FAME 2025, an opportunity for a Product Showcase and market Sensing, and a Round-trip Ticket to an Overseas Trade Fair.
Interested parties must provide the necessary requirements, such as the self-nomination form, product photos, product information/narrative, and other conditions relevant to the submission to the CITEM Katha Awards Secretariat on or before September 30.
