When I put out the call for designers months ago as the National Director for the Philippines, I expected talent. What I didn’t expect was to find six visionaries from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao — each carrying the textures, stories, and soul of the Philippines in their work. Their participation in events like the Precious of Malaysia Cultural fashion week further highlights their incredible artistry.
On August 17, 2025, we will take the stage at the Precious of Malaysia Cultural fashion week in Kuala Lumpur’s TRX Menara. For each of us, it will be more than a runway moment. It will be a chance to raise our flag high and show Asia exactly what Filipino design can do.
The Road to Kuala Lumpur
As National Director, my role began long before the lights and cameras. The process started with a nationwide call for entries. Portfolios arrived from across the country — sketches, fabric swatches, and concepts rooted in tradition but looking to the future. Choosing just six wasn’t easy.
Once selected, these designers joined me for a three-day workshop on collection building. Over tables covered in textiles and pinned patterns, we refined concepts, adjusted silhouettes, and talked about the responsibility of carrying our culture into a global space. The room hummed with sewing machines, the air carrying the faint scent of freshly pressed fabric. Conversations moved easily between technical adjustments and personal stories of heritage.
From there, they had two months to bring their vision to life: six looks each — four womenswear and two menswear — grounded in Philippine tradition.
Why This Stage Matters
The Precious of Malaysia Cultural fashion week is one of Asia’s most respected cultural fashion platforms. Designers from across the region gather here to celebrate heritage while pushing creative boundaries. Each nation fields its best, with collections judged on craftsmanship, creativity, and the ability to honor and reinterpret tradition.
The Philippines has a proud record in this arena. Just last year, our contingent won Cultural Designer of the Year with a Mindanao-inspired collection that drew admiration from both judges and the audience. That victory didn’t just bring home a trophy — it opened doors for collaborations, media features, and international recognition. This year, the expectations are higher, and as National Director, it’s my responsibility to ensure we rise to meet them.
The Six to Watch
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Treshe Verne Asis – Misamis Oriental
Formal silhouettes enriched with Mindanao weaves. Her handmade beaded accessories reflect the region’s artistry, adding texture and light to every movement. -
Russ Cuevas – Pasig City
Paz and Igme, inspired by the legend of the Pasig River, pairs clean, structured lines with the luminous quality of piña fabric. -
Jeremiah Gazo – Bago City, Negros Occidental
Hablon fabric meets antique-inspired embellishments, blending the nostalgia of old streets with modern design. -
Steve Genzola – Silay City, Negros Occidental
Pescadores, a tribute to fisherfolk, uses intricate fabric folds that move with the ease and rhythm of the sea. -
Gil Macaibay – Cagayan de Oro City
The malong reimagined — contemporary in silhouette, yet faithful to its cultural roots. -
Ushi Sato – North Cotabato
Cutawatu, drawn from memories of Moro and Tiruray women, draped in silks and malongs with regal precision.
Behind the Scenes
We’re bringing a full Filipino team. CDO’s own Anne Marie Roscas will walk exclusively for each designer. Hair and makeup will be led by Marinasheila Canque of Butuan City, while Roger Lactao of CDO will document our journey as the official photographer.
As National Director, I’ve been there for every fitting, every adjustment, and every late-night decision. Watching these designers shape their vision into garments has been a reminder of why we do this — to tell our story in a way that speaks across borders.
When the lights come up in Kuala Lumpur, they will do more than present fashion. They will carry our history, our craft, and our pride in every step.
The flag will be raised. The Filipino is bound to rise! We are taking with us your well wishes…
Bisou Bisou.
About the Author
Dong Omaga-Diaz is a multi-awarded Filipino fashion designer, creative director, and mentor whose career spans over three decades. Known for his artistry rooted in cultural heritage, he has dressed prominent figures, staged acclaimed runway shows, and nurtured new design talent across the country. As the National Director for the Philippines at international fashion platforms, Dong leads with a sharp eye for excellence and a deep commitment to showcasing Filipino creativity to the world.
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