(Photo courtesy of PCO)
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos highlighted the importance of preserving Filipino fashion traditions while reaffirming their support for local designers, artisans, and weaving communities.
Joined by former First Lady Imelda Marcos, the First Couple attended “Filipiniana: A Celebration of Filipino Fashion Heritage and Craftsmanship” in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, on Wednesday.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the event celebrated the artistry behind traditional Filipino attire and recognized the designers and craftspeople whose work continues to preserve the country’s cultural identity.
Marcos expressed pride in the country’s fashion heritage and acknowledged the contributions of Filipino creatives in keeping traditional craftsmanship alive.
He also recognized the First Lady’s efforts to promote Filipino fashion and encouraged the public to support local designers and artisans whose creations showcase Philippine culture internationally.
The event also featured a publication highlighting the craftsmanship behind Filipiniana ensembles, bringing together traditional techniques and contemporary designs.
“Beyond fashion, every Filipiniana ensemble carries stories of Filipino creativity and the rich heritage that the country can proudly share with the world,” the PCO said.
The agency noted that the initiative also underscores the role of cultural heritage in diplomacy as the Philippines prepares to host regional leaders for the 2026 ASEAN Summit.
Creative director Patrick Rosas emphasized the importance of documenting Filipino fashion traditions to preserve their history for future generations.
“I want to show this here to preserve the history, to archive it, and for future generations,” Rosas said.
Fashion designer Paul Cabral, meanwhile, stressed the need to pass traditional weaving techniques to younger artisans to prevent the country’s textile-making traditions from disappearing.
“Kasi syempre kung nakakaedad na yung dating mga gumagawa, dapat maipasa nila para magtuloy-tuloy. Kasi syempre, it represents our country,” Cabral said.
He also credited the First Lady’s initiatives for helping renew public interest in the local weaving industry.
Designer Michael Leyva likewise welcomed the support extended to Filipino fashion designers and weaving communities, saying it provides opportunities to showcase the country’s textile heritage.
Leyva described the opportunity to dress the First Lady as a dream for a young designer, praising her simplicity and elegance.
He emphasized that continued support for local weaving communities is essential to sustaining traditional craftsmanship and strengthening Filipino cultural identity.
The celebration brought attention to the generations of Filipino artisans whose creativity and skills continue to shape the country’s fashion industry while keeping its cultural traditions alive.
