Filipino ingenuity was on display at the recently concluded fashion event Rampa Manila, with powerhouse names in the industry as well as up and coming designers coming together to lead the re-introduction of the modern Filipiniana.
Rampa Manila was not only a showcase of creations; it was also a celebration of Manila as a fashion capital.
On June 20, Bulwagang Eulogio Rodriguez of the Manila City Hall was transformed into a runway creatively put together by fabrics all sourced from the city’s go-to market hub, Divisoria.
Designers’ vault
Five of the biggest names in the local fashion industry introduced their individual takes on the modern Filipiniana, terno and barong Tagalog: Michael Leyva, Puey Quinones, Jo Rubio, Marlon Tuazon, and Albert Andrada.
Leyva’s concept was an all-white new bridal collection designed intricately. Quinones showcased not only the Filipiniana but also the creativity of the Filipino designer through a collection of black and white classics.
Rubio is known to be an enthusiast of the classic Filipiniana, but for Rampa Manila, he infused trendy elements into the traditional.
For his collection, Andrada paid homage to the beauty of the Philippines.
Tuazon channeled his love for ‘50s Old Hollywood fashion. For Rampa Manila, he made his own interpretations of the terno, which he mixed with loud colors.
The local government, headed by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan and Vice Mayor Yul Servo, recognized the five fashion designers as adopted sons of the City of Manila. Host Bianca Valerio read the citation and handed out the plaques of recognition as well as their keys to the City of Manila.
Up and coming
Three young and emerging fashion designers also proved that age is just a number in the style scene, as they too kept up with the seasoned ones on the runway.
Corven Uy, a 22-year-old fresh graduate from De La Salle College St. Benilde, aims to bring “sexy” into the fashion consciousness of Filipinos. His concept for Rampa Manila is to channel the vibe of public displays of affection and his take on physical intimacy through clothes.
Gabriel Buenabajo, a fresh graduate from the De La Salle College of St. Benilde, wants to incorporate Philippine pukpuk art, or the hammering process of thin metal sheets of brass, silver, and gold, into his creations. He believes local style should be sexy but still conservative.
John Jade Monteclavo, who is still a student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, defined ingenuity at its finest. He used basahan in his creations, drawing inspiration from his mother, who makes rugs. He also hopes to promote basahan style as a form of sustainable fashion.
Their designs were modeled by Miss Manila 2023 candidates.
Yorme, Lacuna as fashion icons
Lacuna and former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso were among the show-stoppers at Rampa Manila.
The city’s chief executive wore a stunning modern Filipiniana gown by Rubio. Domagoso, meanwhile, earned loud applause as he hit the runway in his modern barong Tagalog by Leyva.
Rampa Manila is part of the celebration of the city’s 452nd founding anniversary.
Kapamilya comedian Vice Ganda was also recognized for his contributions as a leading personality in the LGBTQIA+ community.
