T’boli tribe fabric makers alongside Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office -Taytay,Rizal Focal Person Cristina ‘Chin’ Gonzales, Meme Borja
Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila | August 1, 2025
On the evening of August 1, the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines (FDAP) brought to life a celebration of culture, craft, and creativity with TelaHISTORIA: The Runway Story of Filipino Fabrics. Held at the iconic Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila, the event unfolded as more than just a fashion show — it was a moving tribute to the heritage embedded in indigenous Philippine textiles and the stories they continue to tell.
Photo courtesy of Mayor Allan De Leon via Facebook
Mayor Allan De Leon, Councilor/Actress Cai Cortez, and key sponsors of TelaHistoria.
From the Spanish words “tela” (fabric) and “historia” (history), TelaHISTORIA spotlighted the beauty and significance of Filipino fabrics through the visionary interpretations of some of the country’s most talented designers. Each piece that graced the runway was more than a garment — it was a narrative woven through generations, reflecting resilience, identity, and innovation.
Photo courtesy of Mayor Allan De Leon via Facebook
Mayor Allan De Leon, Councilor/Actress Cai Cortez, and key sponsors of TelaHistoria.
One of the evening’s most compelling designs featured Tinnenun, the traditional handwoven textile of the Yakan tribe of Basilan, Mindanao. Renowned for its vivid color palette and bold geometric patterns, Tinnenun has long been an expression of Yakan culture, worn in sacred ceremonies and special rituals. On this runway, the textile was reimagined with modern sophistication — paired seamlessly with Mikado and Jusi fabrics. The result was a powerful fusion of indigenous craftsmanship and contemporary elegance, embodying the essence of modern Filipiniana.
Cristina “Chin” Gonzales, Madam Renee Salud , Meme Borja
The audience, composed of cultural advocates, fashion luminaries, and public figures, included prominent personalities such as celebrated designer Renee Salud, actor Cris Villanueva, actress / Taytay Councilor Cai Cortez, TIEZA COO Mark Lapid, and Taytay Mayor Allan De Leon. Their presence underscored the collective commitment to preserving and promoting Filipino cultural heritage.
Photo courtesy of Mayor Allan De Leon via Facebook
Councilor Cai Cortez and Mayor Allan De Leon
A notable highlight of the evening was the participation of the Municipality of Taytay, Rizal, widely recognized as the Garments Capital of the Philippines. Represented at TelaHISTORIA, Taytay’s involvement symbolized a shift — from being a hub of mass garment production to becoming a creative force in Philippine fashion.
Photo courtesy of Mayor Allan De Leon via Facebook
Mayor Allan De Leon – Taytay Rizal
“It’s an honor to represent Taytay in such a meaningful platform,” shared Mayor Allan De Leon. “This is a step forward for our town and a reminder that our rich garment heritage deserves national recognition. We will continue to find new ways to uplift our industries and support our artisans.”
Photo courtesy of Mayor Allan De Leon via Facebook
Mayor Allan De Leon, Municipality Officials and Textile and Garmets Industry in Taytay, Rizal
As the final model exited the runway and the theater lights dimmed, one sentiment remained: Filipino identity is alive in every thread, every weave, and every design. Through platforms like TelaHISTORIA, the narrative of Philippine fashion continues — bold, proud, and beautifully told.
#TelaHistoria #FDAP #FilipinoFashion #ModernFilipiniana #SupportLocal #YakanWeaving #Tinnenun #TaytayGarments #PhilippineTextiles #ProudlyPinoy
By: Meme Borja
Leave a comment