Council honors Kagay-anon designer for New York exhibition feat

The 21st City Council congratulated Kagay-anon product designer Chris Gomez for his successful participation in Fashion Philippines, held in New York, USA, on September 16–18, 2026.

Initiated by Councilor Jonjon Rodriguez, in his special report during the 55th Regular Session of the City Council, the Council recognized Gomez’s achievement in bringing Filipino creativity and craftsmanship to the international stage.

Gomez was among the 12 emerging brands selected to showcase Filipino creativity and talent through clothing and accessories.

He shared that he successfully passed the screening process of the US Accessories Council, which opened doors for him to participate in the exhibition.

According to Gomez, he personally crafted fashion accessories which highlighted the artistry, ingenuity, and craftsmanship of Kagay-anons.

Beyond his work as a designer, Gomez also advocates for the local arts scene and serves as a member of the Kagay-an Misamis (KAMI) Creative Council, a local organization that connects artists, designers, filmmakers, and cultural workers across Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental.

The KAMI Creative Council works to promote, unite, and advance regional creative industries and homegrown talents across nine creative domains: audiovisual media, digital interactive media, creative services, design, publishing and printed media, performing arts, visual arts, traditional and cultural expressions, and cultural sites.

Gomez’s international exhibition in New York underscores the growing opportunities for local creatives to showcase their work beyond the region and contribute to the recognition of Filipino design in the global arena.

The initiative was spearheaded by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), in partnership with the US Accessories Council, as part of efforts to expand opportunities for Filipino designers and promote Philippine-made products in the global market. (JDO/SP)