Future Weaving

I've never felt Pinoy-Pride being celebrated as much as the past month.  With so many events revolving on encouraging proudly-made Pinoy crafts, let me start with this design competition hosted by the Fashion & Design Council of the Philippines (FDCP).

I was invited to an intimate lunch at Mandarin Oriental Hotel with media friends and FDCP where this renowned fashion group announced this year's theme for their yearly Philippine Fashion Design Competition (PFDC)—"Weaving the Future: A Social Design Competition."

 

Rajo Laurel acts as the host:

With JC Buendia, the FDCP President, opening the launch with a short speech:

He shared that at the time when P-Noy was being inaugurated, a lot of designers were busy creating outfits for the attendees.  All of them shared one big problem: we have a shortage on materials and fabrics that are of Philippine origin.  Hence, the Philippine theme was born.  Buendia shares: "This competition aims to provide sustainable livelihood for regional communities through design and development of products made from indigenous weaves, materials and crafts.  We wish to raise awareness on the various rich indigenous materials that the Philippines can offer, placing the country on the fashion map all over the world."

A representative from Rags2Riches (R2R) was also present.  Known for helping small communities in becoming independent and self-sustaining, she proudly shows off the giveaways that Smart Communications commissioned them to produce for their holiday giveaway.  This is truly inspiring, and I do hope that FDCP's competition shall boost sales for both the designer and those that produce the indigenous materials.

After the talks, the FDCP members showed off their works made of our very own organic materials.  Here are some of my favorites:

Here's a group shot of the models and the designers.

Celebrity ambassadors include Amina Aranaz-Alunan, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzales, and Mons Romulo—all wearing tops designed by Dennis Lustico.  Kris Aquino, Lucy Torres-Gomez and Dingdong Dantes are also part of this esteemed group.

FDCP was so generous to give away some of their works.  Accessory designer Gerry Sunga's amazing necklace and earrings set is to-die-for! 

Mega's Angela Alarcon was the lucky gal to own this set ;)

Media and blogger guests that joined me:

Liza Ilarde of Style Weekend

 

Mega team

Nina Estacio of Tatler

Myrza Sison and Queen Melo Esguerra

Daryl Chang

I can't wait to find out who the winners will be at the Finals Night at PAGCOR Grand Theater this November 22, 2001.  For interested applicants may send their complete and filled-out PFDC Application Form with a scanned copy of all required materials to weavingthefuture@gmail.com on or before August 1, 2011.  Application forms and guidelines are available at PLDT watch pad website and may be requested through mobile number +639496885230.  Good Luck! :D