Marking Independence Day 2023, luminaries from different societies gathered to celebrate Filipino artistry at The Peninsula Manila. The Mega Ball 2023: Art+Fashion recognized the prominent names and powerful figures in the world of fashion and art, who represent the finest in the Philippines' creative industry.
“The Mega ball continues its purpose to celebrate Independence Day and put the spotlight on Filipino talent, even beyond fashion," Mega Magazine Editor-in-chief Peewee Reyes Isidro commenced the event with her opening remarks.
Mega Ball co-chair Sheila Romero
Marking the first time in the event’s 13-year history, I Want To Share Foundation, Chairwoman
Sheila Romero co-chaired the ball. “The Mega Ball stands as a testament to the captivating fusion of art and fashion,” she said. She stressed the importance of supporting young artists by providing them with resources, platforms and opportunities to showcase their talents. Furthermore, she highlighted the importance of making art inclusive, encouraging everyone to make art accessible to all.
Recognizing his outstanding achievements and his impact in the world of artistry, the Father of Philippine Glass Sculpture, Mr. Ramon Orlina, received the first-ever Mega Icon Award. Orlina pioneered the transfiguration of glass into art. Throughout his decades long career, he has broken boundaries locally and internationally. Guests had the opportunity to marvel at the renowned artist’s sculptures that were on display.
Emerging Artists Awardees (L-R): Marc Aran Reyes, Chelsea Theodosis, Mega Ball co-chair Sheila Romero, Ayka Go, Jinggoy Buensuceso, Yeo Kaa, Demi Padua
10 contemporary emerging artists were recognized for their exceptional contributions: Jinggoy Buensuceso, Ayka Go, Yeo Kaa, Nice Buenaventura, Marc Aran Reyes, Winna Go, Demi Padua, Chelsea Theodossis, Jude Macasinag and Lilianna Manahan. They were the first awardees of the Mega Emerging Artist Awards. The awardees of the night received trophies made by Filipino-American artist Jefre.
Contemporary Art Masters (L-R) Manny Garibay, Mark Justiniani, 1st MEGA Icon Awardee Ramon Orlina, Mega EIC Peewee Isidro, Mega Ball co-chair Sheila Romero, Daniel dela Cruz, Mega Publisher Janine Recto, One Mega Chairman Archie Carrasco
The art patron gave recognition to art masters Daniel Dela Cruz, Elmer Borlongan, Geraldine Javier, John Santos, Manny Garibay, Mark Justiniani, and Rodel Tapaya, whose masterpieces were well curated by Romero at the Conservatory.
The Manila Symphony Orchestra serenaded the guests, while the cast of "Ang Huling El Bimbo"
brought the timeless music of iconic Filipino band Eraserheads to life.
Esteemed attendees included AGC Power Holdings Corp. CEO Archie Carrasco, Mega Magazine EIC Peewee Reyes-Isidro, and Mega Publisher Janine Recto. The political sphere was represented by National Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, Senators Chiz Escudero and Mark Villar, with spouses Em Villar and Mega cover girl Heart Evangelista, Congressmen Mikee Romero, Toff De Venecia, Tourism Promotions Board Chief Marga Nograles with husband former cabinet secretary Karlo Nograles, Quezon City and San Juan Mayors Joy Belmonte and Francis Zamora, and Interior and Local Government undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez.
The Mega Ball 2023: Art + Fashion marked the beginning of an exciting era for the company, setting a new standard for artistic expression, cultural fusion, and innovation. Mega remains dedicated to pushing creative boundaries, celebrating Filipino talent, and promoting a diverse and inclusive creative industry.