Here's what the special accessory is about
As expected, the final State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Rodrigo Duterte on July 26, 2021 didn't disappoint when it comes to Filipino style, even during a pandemic. Country leaders wore their best barong and Filipinianas, making the occasion a true celebration of our traditional dressing. Among the afternoon's best dressed attendees was Vice President Leni Robredo, who was wearing a blue Filipiniana with local weaves lining its flounced sleeves.
"The terno is designed to represent the classic Filipina and tribute to the nation's heritage," explained Michael Leyva, the designer of Vice President Leni Robredo's SONA 2021 outfit. " my interpretation of a classic Filipina who is simple yet classy, someone who can represent the image of our nation to the world with grace and pride in being a Filipino."
Apart from styling the look with an elegant pair of pearl earrings, the VP also adorned her dress with a special piece of accessory that supports the fashion and artisanal workers of the country.
Dubbed as the Araw brooch, the accessory is hailed from last year's statement-making piece worn by female politicians during the SONA 2020. A product made in partnership with organization Philippine Fashion Coalition (PFC) and jewelry brand Alchemista, the new Araw brooch also holds the same message, which is about supporting local creative industries especially this time of pandemic.
"Redesigned for 2021, the PFC Brooch symbolizes the rising sun in our 7,641 islands as the fashion industry moves forward," says the PFC.
Made of gold-toned brass with a blue enamel accent, the brooch will be used as a fundraising tool to finance the research and development initiatives and other projects of the PFC for the local fashion and textile industries. The brooch is sold as part of Dama Ko Lahi Ko x PFC Tampipi box, and includes unique finds from Cagayan de Oro, Caraga, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Manila, and Pampanga. Apart from the Araw brooch, expect to see a designer bayong, a bandana, face mask with pouch, face shield pouch or face shield or Hardin room and linen spray, and a mystery item inside the box.
"Each 'tampipi' is priced at P10,000 and proceeds go directly to helping fashion practitioners in the respective region and to funding the current project of the PFC this 2021," the organization says.
Click here to order your Dama Ko Lahi Ko x PFC Tampipi box.