The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) welcomed a delegation from the State University of New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) on January 10. The FIT visit underscored the country’s expanding influence in the fashion and textile sectors, particularly in the fusion of cultural heritage and contemporary innovation.
Hosted by the Competitiveness and Innovation Group-Creative Industries Development Office (CIG-CIDO), the FIT delegation was led by Assistant Professor Dr. Preeti Arya, and Office of International Programs Coordinator Jesse Saba. The group also included students specializing in International Trade & Marketing, Fabric Styling, Fashion Design, Entrepreneurship, and Fashion Business Management.
On the DTI side, Supervising Head of the DTI Competitiveness and Innovation Group and Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista welcomed the delegation. Also present were Bureau of Competitive Development (BCD) Director Lilian G. Salonga and BCD Assistant Director Jo-Dann N. Darong.
During the discussions, the DTI officials emphasized the critical role of international partnerships in strengthening the global competitiveness of the Philippines’ creative industries.
“The Philippines is not only a hub of creativity but also a beacon of sustainability and cultural resilience,” said Assistant Secretary Bautista. “This meeting is not just a courtesy call—it is a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and shared aspirations. Together, we can address challenges, unlock opportunities, and build a thriving, globally competitive fashion and textile industry.”
Reinforcing this, Director Salonga provided the delegation with an overview of the Philippine creative industries. She showcased the craftsmanship of Filipino textiles as a reflection of the nation’s rich cultural heritage.
The DTI-BCD director further noted the need for collaborations with institutions like FIT to navigate challenges such as global competition, supply chain disruptions, and increasing sustainability demands while simultaneously capitalizing on emerging opportunities.
These discussions laid the groundwork for a deeper conversation on the vital role of government support in driving innovation, promoting sustainability, and enhancing global market access.
The FIT’s visit reinforces a shared commitment to fostering creativity, sustainability, and cultural exchange. It sets the stage for stronger collaborations between the Philippines and global institutions to secure long-term growth and global competitiveness in the fashion and textile industries.
Apart from the discussions, the delegation embarked on site visits to key industry hubs, including the Design Center of the Philippines, the Philippine Textile Research Institute, Philippine Economic Zone Authority-accredited zones, and Cebu City.
Organized in collaboration with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center New York and led by Trade Commissioner Benedict M. Uy, these site visits provided a firsthand look at the country’s dynamic fashion and textile ecosystem. The delegation witnessed the entire spectrum—from natural fiber farming and traditional weaving communities to artisans and multinational manufacturers producing for leading global brands.
Ultimately, the site visits underscored the Philippines’ rising influence in sustainable textiles, indigenous weaving, apparel manufacturing, and the global fashion market.
Under the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (RA 11904), the Philippines has been actively bolstering its creative economy, with the fashion and textile sectors at the forefront. These industries blend indigenous traditions like piña, abaca, and Inabel weaving with modern apparel manufacturing techniques.
In 2022, textile manufacturing generated a gross value added of PHP 44.6 billion, reflecting its significant contribution to the economy. Alongside this growth, Filipino consumers have demonstrated a strong preference for sustainable fashion, with a 2022 Statista survey revealing that 68% have purchased eco-friendly fashion products—surpassing other Southeast Asian nations, including Singapore at 42%.
Part of the State University of New York, the FIT is a leader in career-focused education in art, design, business, and technology. It serves over 8,000 students, offering a practical mix of hands-on experience, theoretical knowledge, and a liberal arts foundation. FIT’s affordable programs are designed for today’s creative economy, covering areas like computer animation, toy design, production management, film and media, and cosmetics and fragrance marketing.
Notable alumni include fashion icons like Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, and Norma Kamali, as well as Leslie Blodgett, creator of bareMinerals; Tony Chi, a top restaurant designer; and Nina Garcia, editor-in-chief of Elle.
For the latest information, visit fitnyc.edu.
