The city government of San Carlos, through its Negosyo Center, wrapped up the Sustainable Urban Smartwear Workshop with a showcase of the participants’ creations Aug. 31 at the Annex Building.
At least 11 local designers showcased various sustainable fashion pieces, including costumes, accessories, and bags, with six models presenting the creations.
The pieces were made from locally-sourced and sustainable materials, such as abaca fibers, shells, Hablon, a traditional handwoven textile particularly associated with Iloilo, and other eco-friendly materials.
The creations will be displayed at the 40th Negros Trade Fair from Sept. 22-27 at SMX Convention Center Aura in Taguig.
Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) special operations officer III Ma. Novah Sollesta said the showcased outputs are more than just garments, they tell the story of the city and reflect San Carlos’ identity as a hub for innovation and eco-design.
She shared that, through the support of executive assistant IV Airene Rose Gustilo-Gonzales and SCCHCAC coordinator Enrique Katalbas, the initiative was pursued with the goal of developing it into a sustainable community livelihood in the future.
Sollesta also said the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has identified the wearables sector as one of the highest-potential growth areas in the Philippine economy, noting that San Carlos City’s rich tradition, local artistry, sustainable practices, and community-driven craftsmanship provide a strong foundation for developing modern smartwear and positioning the city as a hub for sustainable fashion.
She congratulated the participants for their creativity and efforts in completing their outputs and thanked Mayor Renato Gustilo for supporting the initiative, the city said in a press release.
Meanwhile, Gustilo discussed the purpose and history of the Negros Trade Fair, noting that it serves as a venue to showcase products from Negros Occidental and highlight the province’s capabilities and offerings.
Gustilo also gave feedback on the showcased pieces, commending the participants for their creativity and artistry while pointing out the need to consider production capacity, particularly if demand for the wearables, accessories, and bags increases.
He congratulated the organizers and participants for the successful completion of the workshop.
San Carlos City Council for Youth Affairs youth development officer Renzie Mae Tambasen-Antonio was also present during the event. ||
