Designers’ Holiday Bazaar 2025: Where Filipino Craft Meets Real Impact

If you think you’ve experienced all that a holiday bazaar can offer, think again

The Designers’ Holiday Bazaar (DHB), intentionally curated by the visionary duo of founder Beatriz Zobel Jr. and co-founder Sofia Zobel Elizalde, is back. And this year, on it’s 12th installment, it’s not only raising the bar, it’s obliterating it.

I got a sneak peek at the press preview, and trust me, this isn’t just a bazaar—it’s a game-changer. Then again, I expected nothing less from the country’s first-ever, groundbreaking nonprofit initiative bazaar.

Two locations, twice as dynamic

For the first time ever, DHB is going BIG—twice over. You’ll find it at Greenbelt 5 (The Gallery & Amphitheatre) AND Glorietta (Main Activity Center & Palm Drive Activity Center), marking the largest DHB in 12 years, with over 110 vendors. This is way more than retail therapy; it’s a dynamic setting in which Filipino craftsmanship and social impact collide. It’s a platform for social change, really.

The scale of this year’s event makes it the ultimate destination for conscious shoppers looking to make a real difference. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a first-time visitor, you’ll walk away with more than just a gift—you’ll walk away knowing you’ve helped empower local talent, uplift communities, and promote sustainable practices across the country.

_{From L to R: Paul Vincent Mercado, Ayala Foundation Inc Senior Director for Marketing and External Relations; Jorelle Balitbit, Ayala Malls Senior Marketing Manager; Bea Zobel Jr., Designers’ Holiday Bazaar Curator and Co-founder; Sofia Zobel Elizalde, Designers’ Holiday Bazaar Curator and Co-founder; Roche Vandenberghe, Globe Telecom Chief Marketing Officer and Neil Trinidad, GCash Chief Marketing Officer}

Where every purchase makes a difference

Here’s the deal: When you shop at DHB, you’re not just buying products—you’re supporting Filipino craftsmanship. By shopping here, you’re doing so much more than just picking out beautiful things and mouthwatering treats for yourself or to give as holiday gifts—you’re supporting the local artisans, small businesses, and community-driven initiatives that are helping to create better opportunities for those who need it the most.

Every single purchase goes toward empowering local artisans, MSMEs, and 27 Ayala Foundation scholars whose futures are being transformed through this event. Plus, don’t forget about the STEPS Foundation dancers—two of whom are already performing with the American Ballet Theatre in New York. This is about giving people the opportunity to elevate their lives through creativity and hard work.

As Sofia Zobel-Elizalde puts it: “More than a marketplace, the Designers’ Holiday Bazaar is a platform that makes dreams come true, potentials realized, and goals achieved.”

Shopping with impact is the name of the game this year. It’s quality over quantity, and purposeful provenance over haphazard products. It’s about uplifting communities and breaking the cycle of poverty—a DHB credo— one thoughtfully crafted and curated piece at a time.

“We are always on a mission to give back to the Filipino community, and one of the ways we are able to achieve this year after year is the Designers’ Holiday Bazaar,” shares Bea Zobel Jr. “It’s always heartwarming to see both consumers and beneficiaries benefit from DHB. Families take home beautifully crafted products from different regions of the Philippines, while artisans gain greater visibility and scholars receive vital support. It’s quite inspiring, even for us, and it moves us to do better and aim higher every time.”

_{Some items featured at the launch event, available at DHB. Clockwise from top left: T’nalak Home Christmas Tree, bitagcol by Jo Ann Bitagcol, Kanya by Bea Roxas, Casa Mercedes by Monchet Olives, Etniko Pilipino by Ding Perez, Mabolo by Antonio and Gema Garcia, Osmundo Furniture Gallery by Edwin Esguerra, Mabolo by Antonio and Gema Garcia}

Premium retail + purpose

In a nutshell: DHB is where premium retail meets purpose. This isn’t about filling your cart with random goods—it’s about shopping for items that carry real value and contribute to a much larger cause. Beyond shopping, this is real impact, real change

Every purchase you make at DHB is an investment in something meaningful: products that not only embody high quality and craftsmanship but also carry with them the rich culture, traditions, and artistry of the Philippines. From fashion to food, and nearly everything in between, each item represents a piece of Filipino heritage and tells a story of creativity and skill passed down through generations.

You’re purchasing products that reflect the soul of the Philippines, while simultaneously lifting up the very people who make this incredible work possible AND contributing to the education of the current generation.

“We always believed that passion can take many local talents to great heights when given the right support,” Sofia Zobel Elizalde points out.

A cashless revolution

As if all that wasn’t inspiring and mind-blowing enough, DHB is also big on innovating and embracing the future. This year, they’ve partnered with GCash and Globe to bring cutting-edge technology into the mix. Here’s how:

GCash PocketPay: Turn your phone into a POS terminal for easy, cashless transactions.
GCash SoundPay: Payments are seamlessly confirmed with a voice notification, ensuring a smoother and more efficient transaction experience.
Globe 5G: Enjoy super fast connectivity across both venues for a smoother purchasing experience.

And it isn’t solely about gadgets, either. It’s about leveling the playing field and empowering MSMEs to thrive in the digital economy. It’s also about creating a space in which shopping is as seamless as it can be. Now that’s surely a win-win.

Curated categories to watch out for

Fashion & Accessories: Think brands like PIOPIO, Earl Gariando, R. Filart, KitSilver Jewelry, and J. Makitalo. These brands reinterpret tradition with a modern twist.
Holiday Décor: Adorn your space with festive items from Alriver, Mallows Collection, and Natureline Enterprise. Expect wreaths, parols, and even Nativity sets.
Local Flavors: Cakes, pastries, chocolates, and artisanal treats from Heny Sison Desserterie, Flour Pot, Auro Chocolate Café, and more. Foodies, this is your moment. Think Negrense treats, local snacks, and artisanal alcohol that you may not readily find elsewhere.
Home & Lifestyle Finds: Bespoke furniture and artifacts from T’nalak, Mabolo Flower Shop, Osmundo Furniture Gallery, and Sarimanok Antiques.
Wellness & Beauty: Handcrafted candles, perfumes, and beauty products from Cathy + Bee, Lumi Candles Philippines, Esscentials Manila, and For Keeps Clean Beauty.

Mark your calendars

The Designers’ Holiday Bazaar is happening from November 29 to December 7, and you don’t want to miss this. Whether you’re on the hunt for special gifts, holiday décor, snacks with local flair, or a stylish treat for yourself, DHB has it all. Get ready for a shopping experience that’s going to make you feel good about every item you take home.

Shopping with meaning? Yeah, that’s the vibe. And that’s what makes it extra worth it.

#DHB2025
#AyalaFoundation
#ShopWithPurpose
#SupportFilipinoArtisans
#ImpactShopping
#BeyondTheBazaar
#HolidayShopping
#ExpatPH
#ExpatPhilippines
#ExpatRecommends