Fashion designer Alson Asuncion of North Cotabato is convinced that Binibining Pilipinas 2021 semi-finalist Patrizia Garcia is his lucky charm!
Since he dressed up Patrizia, many people got interested in his creations.
"When they found out that I made dresses for Patrizia, I received a lot of inquiries about my designs. So thankful for Patrizia for the wonderful opportunity to dress her up during her stint in Bb. Pilipinas," said Alson, during an interview in Quezon City recently.
Patrizia finished in the top 13 of the prestigious national pageant last July 11. She also won Miss Blackwater and Miss Photogenic special awards.
It was national pageant director Josephus Ople Canabuan who introduced Alson to Patrizia. Then one good thing led to another. Alson became the official swimsuit designer for the Mrs. Queen of Hearts beauty pageant led by its national director Mitzie Go Gil.
He is also set to create gowns for some Filipino beauty queens who are set to compete abroad later this year.
Alson, a Maguindanaoan who is half Christian, said fashion is really his passion.
"I was inspired by some of our popular designers like Michael Cinco. I just saw them on TV. Since then, I want to be a great designer," Alson recalled, when asked about his beginnings as a designer.
Alson admitted it's never easy to pursue fashion, especially during the pandemic.
"I am the breadwinner of my family. Being the eldest among the nine children, I have a big responsibility," he added.
The young fashion designer said he tried to make both ends meet when he worked abroad, but he only achieved minor success.
Also, 38, said that he's a person who wears many hats. Aside from being a designer, he is also into make-up and dancing. "With the help of God, I was able to sustain our needs during hard times."
He graduated hotel and restaurant management at the University of Southern Mindanao, but fashion remains a priority for Alson.
He has already established a small dress shop in his hometown in PIkit, where his siblings help him in the business.
"I thought my small business would fold-up because of the pandemic. But here I am, still surviving in the world of fashion. I just prayed and stay focused," he said.
Alson declared: "Nothing beats passion. In the fashion industry, you need to be patient and creative in order to survive. If there’s a slump along the way, stand up and never give up on your dreams."