Category: Press

1. The Largest Collaboration of Filipino Weavers – Over 200 handwoven panels created by master artisans from all over the country. A wide range of indigenous textiles—from T’nalak to Piña. Each piece tells a story of culture, identity, and generational knowledge.
2. The First-Ever Live Performance Façade at a World Expo for the Philippines – Woven panels form part of a dynamic façade that opens throughout the day to reveal live performances. The architecture becomes a living stage, where design and dance are seamlessly integrated.
3. A Multisensory Experience – The Philippine Pavilion off ers an immersive experience where technology, tradition, and storytelling seamlessly come together. It begins with an anime-inspired façade fi lm honoring Japan, setting the stage for guests to be drawn and woven into the evolving narrative of the Filipino spirit.Inside, guests will encounter 18 handwoven art pieces, each one representing a region of the Philippines. Crafted over six months using sustainable and upcycled materials, these pieces come alive through synchronized light projections, sound, and video—transporting visitors to different parts of the archipelago and offering a glimpse into the soul of each community.At the heart of the Pavilion is “Dancing with Nature,” an interactive installation where guests are digitally reimagined on screen as part of the Philippines’ lush ecosystem. Their movements become dancing flowers, fluttering leaves, or schools of fish, creating a powerful metaphor of connection between humanity and the natural world. It’s a communal celebration of life, tradition, and the environment—brought to life through both innovation and soul.To enrich the experience, live performers from the Cultural Center of the Philippines perform five times a day, sharing traditional music, dance, and stories. These performances infuse the Pavilion with warmth, rhythm, and celebration, ensuring that every visit is uniquely and unmistakably Filipino.

Designing the Philippine Pavilion was about capturing the spirit of the Filipino—adaptable, expressive, and deeply connected to nature and community,” said the Pavilion’s head designer Carlo Calma. “Every detail was considered, from the façade that breathes with performance to the woven stories inside. It’s architecture blended with an immersive portrait of who we are and who we aspire to be.”

A Cultural Invitation to the World

“What makes this Pavilion truly special is that aside from being seen—it’s also meant to be felt,” COO Nograles emphasized at the briefing. “We want every visitor to walk away carrying a piece of the Philippines with them: in their hearts, in their memory, and perhaps even in their hands.”

To complement the experience, visitors can enjoy curated spaces like the Habi Gift Shop featuring handwoven products visitors can purchase, bringing a piece of the Philippines with them, the Hilot Wellness Space offering traditional Filipino healing massages and teas, and the Hain Takeout Counter serving favorites such as Adobong Manok sa Gata, Lumpiang Binondo, Ube Soft Serve, and the iconic Halo-Halo.

Also making its debut is Kokoro-chan, the Pavilion mascot inspired by the Philippine tarsier—an emblem of the country’s rich biodiversity and love for storytelling. A collaboration with the Tarsier Foundation, Kokoro-chan embodies the warmth and curiosity the Philippines brings to the world stage.

“Expo 2025 Osaka comes at a meaningful time as we enter 70 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan in 2026,” said Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia-Albano. “The Pavilion is a showcase of our culture and a heartfelt expression of friendship, respect, and shared aspirations with our Japanese partners. We are proud to stand with Japan in advancing the goals of sustainability and innovation. Through this plattorm, we invite the world to witness how our bilateral ties continue to grow stronger through art, dialogue, and collaboration.”

A Legacy Beyond the Expo

True to its commitment to sustainability and heritage preservation, the Philippines Pavilion has been designed with a “second life” in mind. After the Expo, the woven panels and key elements will be transferred to the National Museum of the Philippines, ensuring their stories live on.

“The Philippine Pavilion is our invitation for the world to connect with the heart and soul of the Filipino people and to discover the many reasons to Love the Philippines,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “We hope to inspire travelers to explore our 7,641 islands, experience the depth of our culture, marvel at the excellence of Filipino creativity, and be moved by the stories of triumph and resilience of our communities. By blending the use of traditional weaving methods with innovation and technology in highlighting the diversity of our Regions and the identity of our peoples, we are bringing our message of sustainable tourism development to the fore, where tourists are introduced to meaningful experiences while our local communities benefit with sustained livelihood and employment.”

With its thoughtful design, emotional resonance, and commitment to sustainability, the Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is a must-visit destination for those seeking a meaningful, moving, and truly unforgettable nod to the story of Filipinos.

THE TEAMS BEHIND THE PAVILION

The Philippine Organizing Committee—led by the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines—commissioned a visionary design team, with Carlo Calma Consultancy, Inc. as Lead Architectural Firm and Designer; Chochay Garcia as Creative Producer; Architect Yuki Kanou as Executive Architect and Lead Project Manager; and Tellart as Guest Experience Designer.

ABOUT THE TPB

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines aims to market and promote the Philippines domestically and internationally as a world-class tourism and MICE destination. As an attached agency of the Philippine Department of Tourism, TPB develops strategic partnerships with private and public stakeholders to deliver unique high-value experiences for visitors, significantly contributing to increased arrivals, receipts, and investments in the country. For more information, please visit www.tpb.gov.ph.

PRESS CONTACT
Carol RH Malasig
carol@almostdiplomatic.com | +81 70 8991 1975

From L-R: Tourism Promotions Board Acting Deputy COO for Marketing and Promotions Teresita Dandan, Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia-Albano, ASEAN Secretary General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer and Secretary General of the Philippine Organizing Committee, World Expo 2025 Margarita Nograles, and Philippine Consul General to Osaka Voltair Mauricio

The Philippine Pavilion at the Expo 2025 Osaka

Photo credit: Carlo Calma Consultancy and Masaki Komatsu

Just days before World Expo 2025 Osaka opens its doors to the public, the Philippines gave the world a preview of its cultural showcase at the global stage. On 09 April 2025, the Philippine Organizing Committee (POC), through the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), hosted an exclusive media preview of the much-anticipated “Woven” Pavilion that earned glowing feedback among international press and the Japanese public.

Themed “Nature, Culture, and Community: Woven Together for a Better Future,” the Philippine Pavilion is a multisensory experience that blends heritage and innovation. This fusion of elements has earned early reviews describing it as one of the most inspired, soulful, and innovative exhibits at the Expo.

TPB COO Nograles led a media briefing in Osaka, Kansai, Japan, to provide an overview of the Philippine Pavilion for Expo 2025 Osaka

“The response from the international media has been overwhelmingly positive,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer and POC Secretary General Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. “It is deeply encouraging to see how warmly the world is receiving our Pavilion. Every woven panel, every performance, and every flavor is part of the continuing narrative of the Filipino people. In a world driven by innovation, we’re here to show that tradition still matters—that human connection and cultural memory can shape a more inclusive, meaningful future.”

The spirit of the Filipino on the world stage

Photo credit: Carlo Calma Consultancy and Masaki Komatsu

The Philippine Pavilion goes beyond architecture—it is a living, breathing expression of Filipino identity. With over 200 woven panels created by artisans from across the archipelago, a first-ever live performance façade, and immersive digital installations, “Woven” highlights the country’s artistic excellence and creative resilience.

From a film-inspired anime façade honoring Japan to a groundbreaking AI-powered installation called “Dancing with Nature,” every part of the Pavilion draws guests into a celebration of Filipino culture and environmental consciousness. Daily performances by the Cultural Center of the Philippines and handwoven artworks representing the country’s 18 regions offer visitors an engaging cultural encounter.

Bringing Filipino warmth to the world

The Pavilion also showcases Filipino creativity and hospitality through distinct experiential zones. Guests can shop for artisanal crafts at the Habi Gift Shop, enjoy traditional wellness practices at the Hilot Wellness Space, or savor Filipino flavors at the Hain Takeout Counter with dishes like Adobong Manok sa Gata and Halo-Halo.

Adding a playful touch is Kokoro-chan, the Pavilion’s official mascot inspired by the Philippine tarsier. Designed in collaboration with the Tarsier Foundation, Kokoro-chan is emblematic of the country’s appreciation for biodiversity and storytelling.

Celebrating friendship and shared futures

As Expo 2025 Osaka sets the stage for the upcoming 70th anniversary of Philippines-Japan diplomatic relations in 2026, the Pavilion also serves as a heartfelt tribute to the enduring friendship between the two nations.

“The Pavilion is a showcase of our culture and a heartfelt expression of friendship, respect, and shared aspirations with our Japanese partners. We are proud to stand with Japan in advancing the goals of sustainability and innovation,” said Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia-Albano. “Through this platform, we invite the world to witness how our bilateral ties continue to grow stronger through art, dialogue, and collaboration.”

From Osaka to the Philippines—and beyond

To ensure that the stories shared in Osaka continue to inspire future generations, the Pavilion’s woven artworks and select components will find a new home in the National Museum after the Expo.

“The Philippine Pavilion is our invitation for the world to connect with the heart and soul of the Filipino people and to discover the many reasons to Love the Philippines,” said Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “We hope to inspire travelers to explore our 7,641 islands, experience the depth of our culture, marvel at the excellence of Filipino creativity, and be moved by the stories of triumph and resilience of our communities. By blending the use of traditional weaving methods with innovation and technology in highlighting the diversity of our Regions and the identity of our peoples, we are bringing our message of sustainable tourism development to the fore, where tourists are introduced to meaningful experiences while our local communities benefit with sustained livelihood and employment.”

With its thoughtful design, emotional resonance, and commitment to sustainability, the Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is a must-visit destination for those seeking a meaningful, moving, and truly unforgettable nod to the story of Filipinos.

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ABOUT TPB
The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines aims to market and promote the Philippines domestically and internationally as a world-class tourism and MICE destination. As an attached agency of the Philippine Department of Tourism, TPB develops strategic partnerships with private and public stakeholders to deliver unique high-value experiences for visitors, significantly contributing to increased arrivals, receipts, and investments in the country. For more information, please visit www.tpb.gov.ph.

Reference:
Maria Nedalin L. Miranda
Acting Division Chief
Media Relations and Communications Division
neng_miranda@tpb.gov.ph

The construction of the Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is progressing smoothly and remains ahead of its target schedule, reflecting the country’s commitment to excellence and innovation. To date, 86% of the building construction has been completed, with the remaining work projected to reach 98% by the end of December 2024. Final touches, including façade and exhibition installations, will be finished by the end of March 2025, ensuring readiness for the April opening. A major milestone is on track with the completion certificate inspection scheduled for December 24, 2024.

The façade, crafted from modular rattan panels by Filipino artisans, showcases sustainable design and meticulous talent. Extensive testing of materials ensures both durability and aesthetic appeal, while the inclusion of interactive storytelling textiles and AI-powered features promises an engaging journey through the Philippines’ 18 regions. Visitors will also be treated to traditional performances and vibrant displays of regional dances, providing a deeper appreciation of the country’s cultural diversity.

Global Significance and Visitor Experience
For foreign and Japanese visitors, the Philippine Pavilion offers a seamless blend of heritage and innovation. Its theme, “Nature, Culture & Community, Woven Together for a Better Future,” highlights the nation’s commitment to sustainable development and creativity. These elements create a lasting impression, positioning the Philippines as a hub for both tradition and modernity.

The Pavilion also celebrates Filipino ingenuity, inviting global audiences to explore investment and tourism opportunities. By spotlighting artisanal crafts, eco-friendly practices, and technological advancements, it showcases the Philippines as a progressive and dynamic destination.

Tourism Secretary and Philippine Pavilion Commissioner General Christina Garcia Frasco has been actively involved in the Expo Osaka preparations. Recently, Secretary Frasco personally conducted a site inspection of the woven scrims in Cebu—essential components of the pavilion’s interactive design. These scrims highlight Filipino ingenuity while meeting the aesthetic and functional demands of the pavilion’s interior.

“The Philippine Pavilion is a testament to the unparalleled creativity and resilience of the Filipino people,” said Secretary Frasco. “Through its innovative design and immersive experiences, we aim to inspire millions of visitors at Expo 2025 Osaka to discover the beauty, culture, and ingenuity of the Philippines.”

Sustainability and Legacy
The Philippines, while one of the smallest emitters of greenhouse gases, bears a heavy burden in the fight against climate change. As a nation often hit hardest by natural disasters, from devastating typhoons to rising sea levels, the Philippines is an example of the disproportionate impact felt by vulnerable countries.

The Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka stands as a testament to the country’s dedication to sustainability and resilience. Designed with a focus on minimizing waste and environmental impact, the pavilion ensures that all materials can be repurposed. This approach reflects the Philippines’ ongoing commitment to adapting to the challenges posed by climate change, using innovation and creativity to promote environmental consciousness while highlighting the nation’s rich cultural heritage. The pavilion’s sustainable design symbolizes the country’s ongoing efforts to create a lasting positive impact both locally and globally.

After the Expo, components of the pavilion will be transferred to the National Museum of the Philippines, contributing to long-lasting cultural and environmental preservation. This approach highlights the country’s commitment to global collaboration and responsible stewardship of the planet, aligning with the world’s collective efforts to mitigate climate change and promote sustainability. Through this design, the Philippines emphasizes the importance of sustainable innovation as a solution to the challenges of climate change, showcasing a harmonious blend of cultural pride and environmental consciousness.

For more information about the Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, contact the Philippine Pavilion Expo Secretariat at expo2025phsecretariat@tpb.gov.ph or visit https://phworldexpo.tpb.gov.ph.

We were invited to the pavilion unveiling ceremony hosted by the Consulate General of the Republic of the Philippines, held in Osaka City on Wednesday, July 24, 2024.

The theme of the Republic of the Philippines pavilion is “Nature, Culture and Community: Weaving Together for a Better Future,” and it expresses diversity and human connections through traditional textiles.

The building’s exterior has a design inspired by rattan craftsmanship, and the exterior walls will display approximately 200 pieces of handwoven textiles from all over the Philippines. There will also be a stage for live traditional dance performances.

Construction of the building has already begun and is scheduled to be completed in March of next year. We can’t wait for the Osaka-Kansai Expo to begin!

Source: Sennan City Government

The Republic of the Philippines will exhibit a self-constructed “Type A” pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo (184 days from April 13 to October 13, 2025). The details were announced this summer.

The theme is “Woven.” Using traditional Philippine textiles as a motif, the exhibition conveys the meaning of weaving a better future. The concept is “Nature, Culture, and Community: Women Together for a Better Future.” The Philippines is a multi-ethnic nation made up of approximately 7,000 islands. Many ethnic minorities have inherited diverse lifestyles and cultures, but their crafts are little known overseas

The facade design is handled by Carlo Calma, a young architect from the Philippines.

The design aims to emphasize the connection between people in a diverse society and harmony with nature. “It is also an expression of my theme, the fusion of art and architecture,” he said.

The façade is made of woven rattan produced in Cebu. The exterior walls will display 212 panels of hand-woven textiles from all over the Philippines, and there will also be a stage for live performances such as traditional dance. Inside the building, visitors can also experience a walk through the “Forest of Art,” which features textiles from 18 regions.

Philippine Government Representative Cristina Garcia Frasco said, “Our participation in the Expo will help us showcase the Philippines’ natural beauty, history, heritage and culture. The pavilion will give people plenty to fall in love with the Philippines.”

Source: Radio Kansai Topics

OSAKA – The Philippines has unveiled its plans for a collaborative, innovative, and sustainable pavilion at the 2025 World Exposition, set to take place on Yumeshima Island in Osaka from April 13 to Oct. 13 next year.

The Philippine Pavilion will feature the first-ever interactive live performance façade, showcasing traditional dance and crafts that embody the Filipino spirit of creativity and connection. To celebrate diversity, the façade will also display 212 handwoven textiles, marking the largest collaboration of weavers in a single project. Each piece presents a unique narrative, reflecting the rich heritage, traditions, and art of each community. The pavilion will also convey the story of sustainability, with plans for an upcycled “second life” at the National Museum in the Philippines after the Expo.

“All of these features were lovingly put together by our design team. We cannot wait for you to see the full glory of our pavilion very soon,” said Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles at a press conference following the international press launch and concept presentation at The Garden Oriental Osaka on July 24.

Architect Carlo Calma, who leads the design team, echoed the sentiment of anticipation.

“I think the beauty of the woven is really these thousand of pieces of units of rattan that’s weaving and twisting and it’s kind of the labor of love of handicraft of the Philippines,” he said.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who also serves as Commissioner-General of the Philippine Organizing Committee (POC) for the Expo, emphasized the pavilion’s dual focus on economy and sustainability.

“The Philippine Pavilion seeks to be as economical as it is sustainable, recognizing that the Philippines and all nations must invest if it is to expect returns in terms of trade, investment, and tourism,” she said.

Frasco noted the pavilion’s potential to boost tourism.

“We expect that the presence of the Philippines at the Expo will further grow the visits of the Japanese to the Philippines, which was pegged at over 300,000 in 2023, and which we project to exceed half a million by 2025. That, of course, will translate to visitor receipts that will contribute hundreds of millions to our economy,” she added.

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia-Albano praised the collaborative efforts between Japan and the Philippines.

“I think it was really the invitation of the Japanese government for us to participate and the hard work of our Department of Tourism and our Tourism Promotions Board that was able to make this happen. It’s been a while, a lot of talks have been going on, but there have been constant interactions, so through their [Frasco and Nograles] personal attention to this, we finally see the concept and the actual model of the pavilion,” she told the Filipino-Japanese Journal.

With the theme, “Nature, Culture & Community, Woven Together for a Better Future,” or simply “Woven,” visitors of the 600-square-meter pavilion can enjoy an immersive experience celebrating Filipino creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage.

A topping out ceremony for the Philippine Pavilion was held on July 25. The building is scheduled to be completed by March 2025.

Source: Filipino-Japanese Journal

On Wednesday, July 24, the Philippines held a concept presentation for their pavilion in Osaka City, following the presentation held in the Philippines last week. The pavilion expresses the diversity of the Filipino people and their connections with each other, using traditional woven textiles. The exterior of the pavilion is designed to resemble rattan work. Over 200 hand-woven textiles are displayed on the exterior walls.

Source: Banpaku Kizuna Tsushin (Osaka Kansai Expo newsletter)

The Philippines, which will exhibit a “Type A” pavilion that it will design and build itself at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo, held a presentation in Osaka to outline the exhibit.

The theme is “Woven.” Using traditional textiles as a motif, it conveys the meaning of weaving a better future.

The exterior design was done by Carlo Calma, a popular Filipino architect, who expressed the woven fabric look with materials that incorporate actual textiles.

There is also a stage on the exterior wall. Live performances such as dance are considered part of the building. Karma said, “It is also an expression of my theme, which is the fusion of art and architecture.”

Source: japan today.

On July 25, the Philippine government held a ceremony to raise the roof for the pavilion that will be exhibited at the Osaka Kansai Expo at Yumeshima, the site of the expo. A concept presentation was also held in Osaka on the 24th, where the outline of the pavilion was announced.

Source: Kentsu Shimbun