MERKADO KULTURA, FILIPINO MAKERS’ MARKET, OPENS FOR A WEEKEND-ONLY RUN AT PH CONSULATE IN SAN FRANCISCO
SAN FRANCISCO, USA – Merkado Kultura (Culture Market), a curated market of about 20 Filipino makers from the Philippines and the United States, officially opened at the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco on 14 October 2022 in a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Philippine Consul General in San Francisco Neil Ferrer, Trade Commissioner Celynne Layug of the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Silicon Valley, France Malvar of Lu France Interiors, and Mel Nava of ShipIt and 1Export.
In his remarks, Consul General Ferrer welcomed the Filipino and Filipino American brands that are participating in the first-ever Merkado Kultura in San Francisco, showcasing handcrafted, artisanal, and sustainably made pieces from Filipino and Filipino American small and medium enterprises.
“There is no better way to host Merkado Kultura than to celebrate our history and heritage, culture and traditions, artists and artisans this October, recognized across the U.S. as Filipino American History Month,” Consul General Ferrer said.
Consul General Ferrer expressed his gratitude to Lu France Interiors, ShipIt, 1Export, PTIC Silicon Valley, and all the participating vendors for spearheading a unique Filipino shopping and cultural experience in San Francisco.
“Thank you for everything that you do to create sustainable livelihood for our producers, farmers, artisans and designers back home in the Philippines, and to promote Philippine-made and -inspired products in the U.S. and around the world,” Consul General Ferrer said.
“I urge everyone to spread the word around, and invite your families, co-workers and friends to visit and shop at the Merkado Kultura until Sunday, October 16,” the Philippine Consul General said.
The following Philippines-based enterprises are participating in the Merkado Kultura at the Consulate: Angkan World; Anthill Fabrics; Malingkat Weaves; Saint C Condiments; Style Ana Fabrics; and Sewn Sandals.
Filipino visual artist and 2022 National Commission for Culture and the Arts grant recipient Taipan Lucero, is also taking part in the cultural fair to promote his CalligraFilipino, inspired by the Philippine indigenous script of baybayin.
From the United States, the following enterprises are joining Merkado Kultura: Ava, Lani and Co.; Barbara Lee Pearl Jewelry; Carie Jewelry; FiliFlavors; House of Hara Handicrafts; Kapwa Baking; Kubo California; Lacson Ravello Fashion; Lola Severina Handicrafts; Oodaalolly Chocolates; Sarap Now Online Market; and Ube Galore Breads and More.
Shop artisanal and sustainable Filipino products, explore uniquely Filipino food, and connect with a community of makers and small business owners at the Merkado Kultura, which closes at the Consulate’s Kalayaan Hall on Sunday, 16 October 2022. END
