Local style and craftsmanship have been at the forefront of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s first year of leadership. In many events and functions, we saw many of the country’s leaders put their best foot forward when it comes to fashion. And this year’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) was no exception.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (Photo by Noel Pabalate)
On July 24, the Batasan Complex in Quezon City became the hotspot of Filipino fashion as politicians graced the SONA 2023’s red carpet wearing looks that celebrate the nation’s heritage. Some donned reimagined versions of the classic terno, others chose to wear traditional garbs. While many see SONA’s fashion element as a spectacle, it is a tool for some politicians to express themselves and their way of leadership, and, in some ways, a reflection of the country’s current governance.
According to the organizers at the House of Representatives, the theme of SONA 2023 played with the idea of “native,” which Filipino fashion creatives interpreted in many ways. But there were certain motifs that stood out during the occasion.
Vice President and Department of Education Secretary Sara Duterte, Senator Risa Hontiveros, and Senator Imee Marcos (Photos by Arnold Quizol and Noel Pabalate)
Spotlight on local tapestries
First was a more literal approach, spotlighting indigenous silhouettes and textiles. Think of Vice President and Department of Education Secretary Sara Duterte’s look, which was a tribute to the Moro tribe of South Central Mindanao. The piece, created by Cotabato City-based designer Israel Ellah Ungkakay, was a traditional Maguindanaon look featuring a gilded Bangala and an inaul malong. Inspired by Filipino weaving traditions was Senator Risa Hontiveros’ look, a hand-embroidered piña calado piece by Filipino designer Joel Acebuche. Another example was Senator Imee Marcos’ pick, which paid homage to the people of Cordillera.
Tourism Promotional Board COO Marga Nograles (Photo from Instagram), Senator Alan Peter Cayetano with Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano (Photo by Arnold Quizol), and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos (Photo by Noel Pabalate)
Florals in full bloom
Floral designs were also in full bloom at this year’s SONA. The motif was presented in many ways by local designers. Some went all out like fashion designer Puey Quiñones, who made terno in bold floral prints for Tourism Promotional Board COO Marga Nograles and Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman. Fashion designer Michael Leyva made 3D floral appliques for his piña terno dress for Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano. Working with florals in a more subtle manner was fashion designer Lesley Mobo with his creation for the First Lady of the Philippines, Liza Araneta Marcos, which was a yellow piña dress with hand-embroidered florals.
Senator Nancy Binay (Photo by Arnold Quizol), Congresswoman Len Alonte (Photo from Instagram), and Heart Evangelista with Senator Francis Escudero (Photo by Arnold Quizol)
White and textures
While the SONA 2023’s red carpet was graced by dresses in many hues, many opted to wear pieces in white, especially Leyva’s muses. But to make them stand out, the designer played with the elegant tone by adding textures. Senator Nancy Binay donned a Filipiniana gown with sheer organza details. Congresswoman Len Alonte wore his tasseled gown made with French lace. While Senator Francis Escudero’s wife Heart Evangelista graced the red carpet wearing the designer’s cut-out column dress accented with pearls and crystal embellishments.
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