Cebu designers one-stop-shop mulled

CEBU, Philippines — To capitalize Cebu’s position as a UNESCO designated “Creative City” for design, a one-stop-shop showcasing Cebuano designer products is now being eyed.

“We need a home to feature our designs, from furnishing, finishing, fashion, paintings, and jewelry all in one place to showcase Cebuano creativity, featuring internationally known designers,” suggested leasing broker for commercial spaces Eppie Acusar.

Acusar, whose company iBuild Management Services Inc., had been instrumental for the leasing success of retail and office developments in Cebu, said there has to be a facility that will showcase a glimpse of Cebu’s world-class creations.

Internationally acclaimed brands like Kenneth Cobonpue, Nature’s Legacy, award-winning fashion accessories’ brand, among others should be featured prominently in a “designers’ home” in Cebu.

Being a UNESCO designated city for design and creativity, Cebu should take serious stance on taking advantage of this recognition, Acusar said.

Creating a one-stop-shop for Cebuano designer goods (including services) is a good start, she added.

Additionally, the proposed designers’ home facility, is also seen to boost sales and market reach.

Cebu City joined 66 cities designated as UNESCO Creative Cities by the Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay.

Last October 30, 2019, Cebu City officially joined the UNESCO Creative Cities International Network under the design category.

UNESCO Creative Cities are laboratories of ideas and innovative practices that bring a tangible contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through innovative thinking and action.

Through their commitment, Creative cities from all continents and regions with different income levels and populations are championing sustainable development actions that directly benefit communities at urban level.

With 66 new creative cities as of October 2019, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network now counts to a total of 246 cities all over the world.

UNESCO Creative Cities Network members work together towards a common mission: placing creativity and the creative economy at the core of their urban development plans to make cities safe, resilient, inclusive and sustainable, in line with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.