The fashion industry mourns today the passing of noted Filipino designer Pepito Albert. News of his demise was confirmed through tribute posts shared online.
Pepito Albert
A highly respected designer in the industry, Pepito honed his talents by attending Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. Soon enough his works were featured in fashion magazines such as Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and Elle. Often described as a media-shy, the designer always let his creations tell his story. In the Philippines, he was known for being the go-to designer of fashion elites, celebrities, politicians, and other notable personalities.
Among them was Filipino broadcaster Korina Sanchez who wore Pepito’s hand-embroidered piña fabric bridal creation during her wedding with former senator and Interior secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas III. Recently, she wore another creation of the designer, a black piña top with chantily lace and callado design during fashion designer Puey Quinones’ “Filipino” runway show at the Goldenberg Mansion.
One of his muses, philanthropist Kaye Tinga, has donned many for his works, whether it is for social events or magazine features.
"Pepito was one of the most creative and dynamic forces I’ve ever known. He was a designer who was truly more concerned that the dress he designed made the wearer stand out, and not the dress itself," Kaye said to Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. "His attention to detail and fit was legendary. He was renowned for his taste and aesthetic, and he really elevated fashion. I’ve been very fortunate to work so closely with him for over 25 years, and more importantly, so lucky to call him a friend."
Pepito was also known as a favorite designer of the Marcos family. Last June 2022, his works made the headlines again as he designed barongs for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his inauguration, a rayadillo-inspired one for the ceremony and an embroidered piece for the evening events.
One of the final moments the fashion circle as wable to see a Pepito Albert creation walk down the runway was during the “Algodon” fashion show at the Pintô Art Museum in February 2023. Closing the show was Filipino supermodel and fashion creative Jo Ann Bitagcol donning a two-piece ensemble by Pepito Albert. The look was all about a classic silhouette courtesy of a gray bolero with oversized sleeves paired with a black ball skirt with a tulle overlay.
While many viewed him as a "mataray" designer, with his signature ponytail and a fan on his hand, to his fellow designers, he was a loving friend and a true fashion genius with a big heart.
"My dear Pepito, my mentor, my teacher, my boss, my friend. Thank you for everything," fashion designer Rajo Laurel posted. "The world is truly less brighter now. I will see you in my dreams."
"Pepito Albert has a funny name for people he's fond of, and we lovingly call him Señora." fashion designer JC Buendia shared. "Under his 'mataray' tone [was] a big heart and funny bone. A brilliant designer and arbiter of good taste, he [was] opinionated yet very objective. He was one of the most prayerful persons I know and his faith even grew stronger when he got sick."
Rest in peace, Pepito Albert.