‘Model our woven clothing and designs… Let’s wear and be proud we have them’ – DTI Kalinga Calls on Youth to Champion Local Weaves in RAMPA Kalinga Fashion Showcase

Tabuk City, Kalinga – The Department of Trade and Industry–Kalinga is set to host the second RAMPA Kalinga at the Kalinga Treasures’ Fair on February 8, 2026, to promote local weaves in the province.

RAMPA Kalinga is part of the Kalinga Treasures’ Fair component that aims to showcase the vibrant and unique Kalinga weaving design patterns through a fashion parade. Local trade fair exhibitors, particularly those in the wearables and fashion accessories sector, will feature their new and innovative designs.

In an interview with GURU Press, DTI-Kalinga Trade Promotion Officer Benedicta “Benny” B. Mangadap shared that weavers and designers will be the main highlight of RAMPA Kalinga, as the event seeks to promote local weaving.

“This fashion show ket kasla nga fashion show ng masa, usually dagitoy ti exhibitors tayo metlang, lalo dagitoy weavers and designers tayo. Isuda ti main actors ditoy nga RAMPA Kalinga,” said Mangadap.

She added that the event was named RAMPA Kalinga, inspired by RAMPA Cordillera.

“Dakami ti nangnagan tapno addaan met ti kasla nga nagan na, adda gamin RAMPA Cordillera. So we want to have a province scope, isu nga RAMPA Kalinga naman,” she added.

Mangadap also clarified that RAMPA Kalinga differs from the Laga Fashion Show in terms of concept and purpose.

Designers participating in the event must be members of CTCKAPI with registered businesses, and the show will focus on generating economic gains for local MSMEs. The event aims to promote local brands, increase exhibitors’ sales, and promote inclusivity by featuring models of various categories, including kids and plus-size models.

She also shared a message for aspiring models joining the fashion show, emphasizing the importance of encouraging the youth to wear local weaves in casual settings—not only during formal or special occasions.

“Of course dagitoy kabataan, we should encourage them nga ag-model iti weaves tayo. Ipangalandakan dagitoy napipintas nga weaves tayo. Kin nu mabalin ket aramiden tayo nga pang-casual, agbalin nga daily wear tayo. Wag tayo mahiyang magsuot because it will only show nga you are helping our local weavers,” Mangadap said.

Meanwhile, looking back at last year’s event, Mangadap shared that designers and weavers generated more than ₱600,000 in sales, highlighting the strong economic potential of local weaving.