T’boli tribe fabric makers alongside Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office -Taytay,Rizal Focal Person Cristina ‘Chin’ Gonzales, Meme Borja.
Newport Resorts World, Manila, Philippines — August 1, 2025
In a dazzling celebration of Filipino identity and artistry, the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines (FDAP) lit up the Newport Performing Arts Theater with TelaHISTORIA: The Runway Story of Filipino Fabrics on August 1. More than a fashion event, the showcase was a heartfelt tribute to the country’s rich textile traditions and the vibrant stories woven into every piece of cloth.
Photo courtesy of Mayor Allan De Leon via Facebook
Mayor Allan De Leon, Councilor/Actress Cai Cortez, and key sponsors of TelaHistoria.
Drawing from the Spanish words tela (fabric) and historia (history), TelaHISTORIA brought together some of the Philippines’ most creative designers to honor indigenous weaving traditions while giving them a fresh, modern twist. Each piece on the runway told a story — of heritage, innovation, and the enduring Filipino spirit.
Photo courtesy of Mayor Allan De Leon via Facebook
Mayor Allan De Leon, Councilor/Actress Cai Cortez, and key sponsors of TelaHistoria.
A standout moment featured the Tinnenun fabric, a traditional weave of the Yakan tribe from Basilan, Mindanao. Known for its bold geometric designs and vivid colors, Tinnenun holds deep cultural meaning and is often worn during significant ceremonies. This time, it was reimagined in a striking ensemble that paired it with opulent Mikado and breezy Jusi fabrics — a perfect balance of time-honored craftsmanship and modern elegance.
The result? A show-stopping look that paid homage to the Yakan weavers’ mastery while showcasing the boundless potential of Filipino textiles in contemporary fashion.
Cristina “Chin” Gonzales, Madam Renee Salud, Meme Borja.
The star-studded audience added to the evening’s sparkle. Among those in attendance were celebrated designer Renee Salud, actor Cris Villanueva, actress Cai Cortez, TIEZA COO Mark Lapid, and Taytay, Rizal Mayor Allan De Leon — all passionate advocates of local fashion and cultural heritage.
Mayor De Leon proudly represented the town of Taytay, long recognized as the “Garments Capital of the Philippines.” His message was one of optimism and support:
Photo courtesy of Mayor Allan De Leon via Facebook
Mayor Allan De Leon – Taytay Rizal
“It’s an honor to represent Taytay on this vibrant stage. Our garment industry has always been the pride of our people, and events like TelaHISTORIA help shine a national spotlight on our local talent. We’re excited for what’s ahead.” – Mayor Allan De Leon
Photo courtesy of Mayor Allan De Leon via Facebook
Mayor Allan De Leon, Municipality Officials and Textile and Garmets Industry in Taytay, Rizal
Taytay’s presence underscored its evolution from a garments production hub to a rising creative powerhouse, with local designers and artisans poised to make their mark on the national and global stage.
As the final model graced the runway and the lights dimmed, one message lingered: the Filipino spirit lives on — bold, colorful, and beautifully woven into every thread of fabric.
Photo courtesy of Mayor Allan De Leon via Facebook
Councilor Cai Cortez and Mayor Allan De Leon
#TelaHISTORIA2025 #FDAP #FilipinoFashion #ProudlyPinoy #ModernFilipiniana #YakanWeaving #Tinnenun #SupportLocal #PhilippineTextiles #TaytayGarments #WearYourHeritage #CultureOnTheRunway #CelebrateFilipinoCraftsmanship
By: Meme Borja
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