Seamlessly weaving then and now

CEBU, Philippines — The traditional Filipiniana underscored the recent fashion showcase dubbed “Panlantaw: Seamlessly Weaving Then and Now,” the first-anniversary gala of Seda Ayala Center Cebu, on August 20.

The event proved the transformative power of tradition, its ability to spur new tweaks to old, customary concepts. Filipino culture is distinct, a quality is owes mainly to its traditions. It does not stop there, though; it continually adjusts to the novelties of the present as well as to hints of the future.

The anniversary celebration was distinctly Filipino. It was not just about traditional Filipino fiesta fare or about performances by local award-winning acts. It also trained the spotlight on clothes that are considered to be the country’s national costume – the barong and the terno.

Cebu’s fashion czar Philip Rodriguez crafted the pieces showcased in the event. The lineup was a testimony to Rodriguez’s unwavering tenacity to innovate – how his designs embody the Filipino’s passionate heart, superb craftsmanship, and creative center.

The designs exude versatility, blending long-running conventions from the past with present stylistic quirks. Everything was masterfully executed.  The featured pieces were enriched by yesterday, tailored by today, and made to cross to tomorrow.

The first anniversary show of Seda Ayala Center Cebu was effectively an argument against the notion that what is old only belongs to the past. Rodriguez’s designs were in line with the hotel’s vision to seamlessly weave then and now for the yet-to-be… the future.