BAGUIO CITY, BENGUET - The vibrant spirit of the Panagbenga Festival 2025 illuminated SM City Baguio with "Blooming Weaves: Panagbenga Fashion Show & Exhibit 2025." At 4 PM on February 21st, the Sunset Terrace's Exhibit Area transformed into a runway, a celebration of Cordilleran heritage and contemporary design, orchestrated by Jonard Don Bactad Jardenil of DE STIJL IMAGE REINVENTED.
The evening showcased the creations of local designers: Eros Goze, Andrew Demot Visaya Jr. of Andrew Visaya JR Couture, Julienne Paran of Julienne Paran Design Studio, Lhee Wel Tokia, Muquiat Padong, Ayra Longsiab of EDOS by Ayra Longsiab, RadLey B. Calderon, Genesis Gonzales of Tribo Estilo by G&G, Avelyn Calag of The Cordilleran Inabel Baguio, and Mariz Gumangan Mabalot Bomogao of @MBCOLLECTIONS TUPI EN DOPOT.
The collaborative spirit of the event shone brightly, with Carl Taawan, Grettalous Apolinar, Rommel Marcelo, and Janzelle Fermin lending their creative expertise. The Gawis Culture and Arts Ensemble/Company also participated, adding a layer of cultural richness to the event.
The runway itself was a dynamic stage, brought to life by a diverse array of models. Crista Palaly and Charlie Quilaman graced the runway for Ayra Longsiab, while Rizza Raymundo and Gwen Valencia modeled for Genesis Gonzales. Roxan Pilo and Jericho Pasaoa showcased Julienne Paran's designs, and Shayne Fidchao and Brynne Bayang modeled Avelyn Calag's intricate pieces. Xyza Aguilar and Nathaniel Ananey presented Andrew Visaya Jr.'s work, and Shannine Dizon and Dwight Bardaje brought Radley Calderon's designs to life. Granville Raymundo and Ariel Caranto modeled for Lheewel Tokia, while Athena Jade Mariano and Therese Balajadia showcased Eros Goze's collection. Glitz Ciano and Esther Barino modeled Mariz Bomogao's pieces, and Shammah Dagson and Sandara Yatar presented Muquiat Padong's designs.
The evening was a testament to the resilience and innovation of the Cordilleran fashion scene, a fitting celebration within the Panagbenga Festival 2025. CM
Video credit: Glomark Pahignalo @ 2025 (facebook.com/lolovaaan)
This article was written with the assistance of Al.
