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The Philippines secures a Silver Award for Exhibition Design at the World Expo in Osaka, Japan.
OSAKA, JAPAN — At Expo 2025 Osaka, the Philippine Pavilion earned the Silver Award for Exhibition Design, celebrated for its creativity, craftsmanship, and visitor engagement.
This recognition, granted by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE)—the governing body of World Expos—honors self-built pavilions on sites under 1,500 square meters for outstanding design and storytelling.
On that same day, the Philippines hosted the official closing ceremony of its Pavilion, celebrating six months of cultural exchange and partnership. Held at the heart of the Yumeshima site, the event brought together dignitaries, partners, artists, and visitors for a vibrant celebration of gratitude, unity, and vision—aptly concluding a Pavilion that made a lasting mark on the international stage.
Since its grand opening in April, the Philippine Pavilion has welcomed over 1.1 million visitors, establishing itself as a vibrant showcase of the country’s creativity, expert craftsmanship, and dedication to sustainability and community. Centered on the theme “Nature, Culture & Community — Woven Together for a Better Future,” the Pavilion became a must-visit destination that offered a rich multisensory experience. Guests explored exhibitions featuring innovative AI-powered installations alongside intricate traditional weaves, indulged in delectable Filipino cuisine at culinary showcases, and enjoyed an array of live performances that brought to life the nation’s diverse culture and traditions.
The closing ceremony, led by Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines Chief Operating Officer and Philippine Organizing Committee Secretary-General Margarita Montemayor Nograles, was a fitting tribute to the Pavilion’s success. The occasion was further elevated by the presence of Ambassador Mylene Garcia-Albano from the Philippine Embassy in Japan, with Tourism Undersecretary Myra Abbubakar delivering a heartfelt keynote address on behalf of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.
“From the very beginning, when this was just an idea drawn on paper, we knew that the Philippine Pavilion was going to be more than just a physical structure. It was going to be our nation’s heartbeat at Expo 2025 — a living expression of who we are: strong, creative, and bound by community. And now, as the curtains close, I stand before you knowing — with all certainty — that we did not just build a Pavilion.
We built pride. We built hope. We built a home for the Filipino spirit — here in Japan, and in the eyes of the world.”
Congratulations, to the Philippine Organizing Committee headed by the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines.
A Legacy That Lives On
As the Philippines’ first-ever live performance façade at a World Expo, the Pavilion made a stunning impression with its display of over 200 finely crafted handwoven panels. Each panel reflected the skill and heritage of Filipino weaving communities from all 18 regions, forming the largest collaborative textile project in the country’s history. Inside, visitors encountered 18 impressive large-scale handwoven art pieces, each telling a story of tradition and creativity. The “Dancing with Nature” experience used generative algorithms to create a dynamic visual spectacle inspired by the beauty of the Philippine environment. AI-infused photobooths allowed for interactive mementos while the Habi Shop promoted authentic artisanal crafts. At the Hilot wellness corner, guests could learn about therapeutic practices rooted in Philippine healing traditions. Altogether, the Pavilion offered an immersive exploration of the nation’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and enduring customs.
As part of the Pavilion’s second life, its key elements—including its distinctive architectural features, curated exhibits, and art installations—will be carefully repatriated to the National Museum of the Philippines, as well as select regional sites across the country. In addition, organizers are making plans to incorporate some of these significant components into the upcoming ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) and its associated Travel Exchange (Travex) event, both of which will be hosted in Cebu in January 2026. This thoughtful redistribution will ensure that the Pavilion’s legacy and influence continue to be felt long after Expo, reaching a broader audience and inspiring communities throughout the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
“What we created here was both a space and a feeling — of warmth, of welcome, of wonder. And we carry that spirit home with us,” added Nograles. “Through the Pavilion, we invited the world to rediscover the Philippines — and we thank every visitor who answered that invitation. We look forward to welcoming more of you to our country very soon.”
A Platform for People, Partnerships, and Possibility
During Expo 2025, the Philippine Pavilion acted as a focal point for cultural diplomacy, trade networking, and tourism promotion. Key activities such as the Philippine National Day, MICE roadshow, and investor meetings sparked partnerships across different sectors that will persist beyond the Expo.
The Pavilion also played a crucial role in enhancing ties with Japan—one of the Philippines’ major tourism and trade partners—by encouraging new collaborations with Japanese prefectures, travel agencies, media, and cultural organizations.
Looking Ahead
As the Philippines concludes this remarkable chapter in Osaka, one message stands out: the journey continues. Through community-based tourism, heritage-driven storytelling, and strategic partnerships, the country remains dedicated to showcasing the Philippines as a destination and a nation abundant in heart, history, and hope.
THE TEAMS BEHIND THE PAVILION
The Philippine Organizing Committee, headed by the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, assembled a visionary design team. This team included 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.
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The Philippines secures a Silver Award for Exhibition Design at the World Expo in Osaka, Japan.
Melo Villareal
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