In 2024, I took on the mission of finding exceptional Filipino fashion designers to represent our nation at the inaugural Precious of Malaysia International Fashion Festival. To achieve this, the festival champions cultural fashion by transforming traditional national wear into modern apparel.
Specifically, it elevates these pieces from mere “costumes” into wearable garments. This beautifully reflect our cultural identity within today’s style landscape. Ultimately, rising to this challenge, Ryan Salazar Lopez of Aklan and Klevin Bartolaba of Agusan del Norte both brought home well-deserved awards for their creations.
A Legacy of Triumph: The 2025 Winning Streak
Building on that momentum, I led a delegation of six Filipino designers to the 2025 edition. Achieving a total sweep as every single designer took home an award. For instance, Tresh Asis from Misamis Oriental, Gil Macaibay from Cagayan de Oro City, Ushi Sato of North Cotabato, and Steve Genzola from Silay City all earned special distinctions. In addition, Jeremiah Gazo of Bago City placed as First Runner-Up. While Russ Cuevas of Pasig City claimed the prestigious Grand Prize. Consequently, this triumphant year handed us a generous victory. And a truly tough act to follow.
Presenting the Class of 2026: The New Delegation
Early this June, I invited interested Filipino designers to apply for the 2026 edition. Slated for this September in Kuala Lumpur. Soon after, applications poured in from every corner of the archipelago, and as a result, I have officially finalized the stellar team that will represent our country. Therefore, as National Director for the Philippines, I am thrilled to announce the official Philippine delegation for the Precious of Malaysia International Fashion Festival 2026.
From Luzon:
- John Steven Bernardo from the province of Isabela
- Glademir Echavarre from Pangasinan
From the Visayas:
- Jean Paul Cabigon from Cebu
From Mindanao:
- Muammar Appao from Sulu
- Akmad Kari Jr. From Cotobato city
- Dante Mana Jr from South Cotobato
- Jermaine Nabong from Iligan
- Maverick Francisco Oyao from Basilan
The Mission: Uniting the Archipelago Through Fashion
My role as National Director goes far beyond selection. Indeed, I am now fully committed to mentoring and refining each designer. Helping them unlock their absolute best. By doing so, we will show the world the magnificence of their heritage. Woven into garments destined to captivate the Asian stage this September 2026. Ultimately, these fashion dreammakers hail from every corner of our nation, carrying not just their own ambitions, but the pride of everyone who believes in Filipino creativity. Thus, in the name of fashion, we stand united as one.
Bisou Bisou.
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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