Obra Design Masterclass sharpens scholars’ skills
THE results of the Obra Design Masterclass of the Department of Trade and Industry’s Philippine Trade Training Center-Global MSME Academy (PTTC-GMEA) were revealed at the 32nd Philippine International Furniture Show (PIFS) recently held at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Pasay City.
The Obra Design Masterclass honed the skills of its 57 scholars, culminating in a commencement ceremony that recognized exceptional talents with awards in three categories: Furniture, Lighting, and Home Accessories. The scholars learned not only design and craftsmanship but also vital business and communication skills necessary for transforming their creative concepts into tangible reality.
Their seasoned mentors from the furniture design industry included Ronald Rommel Viloria, Josef Crisanto, Eric Paras, Stanley Ruiz, Rey Soliven, Dem Bitantes, Vito Selma, Estela Ocampo-Fernandez and Christine Manguerra.
The industry veterans taught the scholars essential key concepts such as “mindset development, design thinking, material selection, and assembly techniques,” said PTTC-GMEA Executive Director Nelly Nita Dillera. The program’s emphasis on vital skills such as communication, collaboration, and business acumen equipped the scholars to “effectively articulate their design ideas to manufacturers and realize their creative visions.”
Also supportive were industry partners such as the Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines (CFIP), Cebu Furniture Industries Foundation Inc. (CFIF), and Pampanga Furniture Industries Foundation Inc. (PFIF).
Launched in December 2023, the Obra Design Masterclass was conducted in Manila, Pampanga and Cebu, addressing key industry challenges such as the emigration of skilled professionals, market competitiveness, and the rising costs of materials.
Dillera emphasized the program’s role in enriching the Philippine furniture industry with skilled designers and crafters capable of making a significant impact on the global stage.
The event welcomed furniture designers, manufacturers, exporters, and enthusiasts to explore an expansive collection of Filipino-made designs that demonstrate unparalleled craftsmanship and innovation.
The PIFS was organized by Next One Now, in collaboration with CFIP, CFIF, PFIF and Global-Link MP Events International Inc. In a synergy with the Philippine design community, it ran alongside Interior & Design Manila, organized by Global-Link MP Events International Inc., with the support of the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers, the Philippine Institute of Architects, and the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc.
The PTTC-GMEA is a government agency under the DTI that provides training and capacitybuilding programs to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines. It aims to enhance the competitiveness and productivity of MSMEs through skills development, knowledge sharing and networking opportunities.