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PHILIPPINE PAVILION OPENS WITH WARMTH, WONDER, AND WORLDWIDE CURIOSITY AT EXPO 2025 OSAKA
OSAKA, JAPAN – April 13, 2025 – The Philippine Pavilion officially opened its doors today at Expo 2025 Osaka, drawing enthusiastic crowds eager to experience one of the Expo’s most anticipated national pavilions. Built around the theme “Nature, Culture, and Community: Woven Together for a Better Future,” the Pavilion captivated guests with the largest collaboration of Filipino weavers ever assembled and a multisensory journey that blends traditional craftsmanship with tech-powered storytelling.
From the striking woven façade to the emotional resonance of its immersive installations, the Pavilion delivered on its promise to be both visually stunning and deeply meaningful—inviting visitors to connect with the Philippines in a wholly new way.
A Living Showcase of Filipino Ingenuity
Guests were welcomed by the Pavilion’s intricate façade, showcasing 212 indigenous fabrics from across the Philippines. While the live performance element is set to debut later this month, the handwoven panels already drew admiration for their scale, detail, and symbolism.
“This façade is a statement,” said Carlo Calma, lead designer of the Pavilion. “We wanted the structure itself to breathe and move with the stories it holds. It reflects who we are as Filipinos—always in motion, always evolving, always expressive.”
Inside, visitors explored a curated space anchored by 18 handwoven art pieces, each representing a region of the country. Created over six months by master artisans using both traditional and unconventional materials—abaca, cotton, candy wrappers, even chicken feathers—these works are enhanced with light, sound, and projections that transport guests to each region’s story.
Another feature is “Dancing with Nature,” an interactive installation that weaves guests into the Filipino narrative. Using generative algorithms, it transforms visitors into fluttering leaves, blooming flowers, or swimming fish—symbolizing how we are all threads in the fabric of nature. Developed in collaboration with design studio Tellart, the experience reinforces the Pavilion’s core message: that harmony, like weaving, begins with connection.
Daily live performances by artists from the Cultural Center of the Philippines bring warmth and authenticity to the Pavilion, happening five times a day and blending tradition with movement.
“We are overwhelmed and honored by the reception on Day 1,” said Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Promotions Board and Secretary General of the Philippine Organizing Committee. “Seeing so many visitors moved by our stories, our traditions, and our people—it’s the strongest reminder of why we are here: to connect through culture and to showcase the heart of the Filipino spirit to the world.”
A Diplomatic and Cultural Bridge
The Pavilion welcomed dignitaries, VIPs, and guests throughout the day, with many calling it a must-see experience.
“Expo 2025 Osaka comes at a meaningful time as we mark 70 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan,” said Ambassador Mylene Garcia-Albano. “The Pavilion goes beyond being a cultural showcase—it’s a heartfelt expression of friendship, respect, and shared aspirations with our Japanese partners.”
“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.”
A Pavilion With a Purpose
Designed with a second life in mind, the Pavilion’s key elements—including its woven façade—will be repurposed and displayed at the National Museum of the Philippines after the Expo, ensuring their legacy continues.
Soon to open are additional Pavilion experiences such as the Habi Gift Shop, Hilot Wellness Space, and Hain Takeout Counter, along with the debut of Pavilion mascot Kokoro-chan, representing the warmth and curiosity of the Filipino spirit.
“We invite the world to not only see the Philippines, but to feel it,” added COO Nograles. “From every thread on our façade to every story told inside, this Pavilion is our invitation to connect—heart to heart, culture to culture.”
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The Philippine Pavilion, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said, 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. “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.”
Published:April 13, 2025
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