Last June, an invitation went out across our archipelago to find creators ready to step onto the world stage. Soon, applications poured in from every corner of the country. As National Director, my role was not merely to select candidates. Instead, I sought to awaken, shape, and draw out the essence of each designer’s talent.
Forging the Vision
Ultimately, eight visionaries emerged from hundreds of applicants. From September 13–16, 2026, they will represent our nation at the Precious of Malaysia Fashion Festival at Titiwangsa Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur.
However, reaching this point required dedication. Over three days, we held intensive three-hour mentoring sessions across the distance. First, we stripped away superficial elements. Next, we refined each core concept. Above all, we taught them how to tell a story through design rather than simply making clothes. As a result, every collection gained power, meaning, and heart.
Meet the Eight Visionaries
Now, the curtain rises for the world to see our designers and their creations.
🌊 MAR APPAO | SULU
Precision meets heritage in every stitch. He pairs tailored silhouettes with the Pis Syabit, the sacred weave of his homeland. Consequently, each thread shares an ancient truth.
🌾 JOHN STEVEN BERNARDO | ISABELA
He brings northern winds directly to the runway. Through his craft, he highlights the quiet majesty, grace, and culture of the Gaddang people.
✨ JEAN PAUL CABIGON | CEBU
He merges indigenous soul with modern style. By pairing native materials with contemporary cloth, his intricate embroidery tells a timeless story.
☀️ GLADEMIR ECHAVARRE | PANGASINAN
Tradition is reborn in his work. Furthermore, his collection speaks a global language while keeping an unmistakably Filipino spirit.
🌙 AKMAD KARI Jr. | COTABATO CITY
He elevates modesty into grandeur. Muslim traditions flow through modern lines, creating a dignified and luminous look.
🌿 DANTE MANA | SOUTH COTABATO
He brings the land to life through fashion. Inspired by the earth beneath his feet, his designs are youthful, vibrant, and poetic.
❤️ JERMAINE NABONG | ILIGAN CITY
He brings pure drama and luxury to the stage. His red-carpet masterpieces are crafted to capture attention and stop time.
👑 ISRAEL UNGKAKAY | BARMM
He presents transformation through motion. He unfurls the legendary Inaul fabric in full regal splendor, showcasing rich heritage from our heartland.
A Legacy of Purpose and Pride
Last year, six designers took this stage, and every single one was honored with top awards, including the Grand Prize and First Runner-Up. Because of this past triumph, expectations are higher than ever.
Therefore, I shared a simple message with our team: “To win again would be glorious, but that is not why we go. Instead, we go to represent our country, honor our culture, and raise the Philippine flag with dignity. That is our true purpose.”
The stage is set, and the journey begins. See you in Kuala Lumpur, where our story will be seen and our voice will be heard! 🇵🇭✨
Dong Omaga-Diaz is an internationally-acclaimed designer, mentor, and creative force whose thoughtful eye and quiet elegance have guided countless young creatives. Whether in the atelier or the audience, he brings clarity, care, and just the right amount of drama to everything he touches.
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