Ternocon has been an event I have looked forward to attending ever since its inception in 2018. Spearheaded by Suyen Corporation and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the initiative to reintroduce our Philippine dress to a wider audience has proven to be a truly worthwhile cause—one that I am proud to support and be a part of.
I find the terno to embody the essence of the Filipina—strong and radiant, like its iconic butterfly sleeves, yet graceful and feminine, like its elegant long skirts. This was reaffirmed once again at Ternocon 2025, held on January 26 at the Reception Hall of the Philippine International Convention Center, CCP Complex in Pasay City.
The show opened with Suyen Corporation Chairman and CEO Ben Chan taking the podium, saying, “This event is close to our hearts as it honors our parents, Chan Lib and See Ying, whose legacy is etched in the drawing of a Filipina wearing a terno on the packaging of the humble gawgaw used to preserve the terno. This is a business they established in 1946, emerging from the ruins of war. They named it Liwayway, meaning ‘dawn,’ to symbolize the start of a new day and a new hope for the country.” Ternocon is their panata (vow) to the nation.
Liza Araneta Marcos, Peach Garde, Ben Chan, Ram Silva, and Windell Madis
This fourth edition of Ternocon proved to be more challenging, as the 12 finalists were tasked with creating a collection inspired by Filipino artists assigned to them.
Peach Garde from Tapaz, Capiz, emerged as the winner of this year’s Ternocon, drawing inspiration from the designs of National Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsin. He was awarded the Pacita Longos Medal (Gold Award) for his impressive tailoring and striking color combination of grays and greens, which quickly became a crowd favorite.
Bryan Peralta from Makati City took home the Silver Award, receiving the Pura Escurdia Medal. His collection showcased the dynamic brushstrokes and signature hues of reds, blues, and yellows by National Artist Jose Joya, all brought to life in his relaxed, flowing pieces.
Third-place winner Ram Silva from Iloilo was awarded the Ramon Valera Medal. Inspired by the works of National Artist Fernando Amorsolo, he presented pieces that beautifully captured the essence of rural life in the countryside.
A special award, the Joe Salazar Award (Chief Mentor's Award), was also given to Windell Madis of Batac City, Ilocos Norte, for his innovative use of white fabric in his collection. He looked to the works of National Artist for Visual Arts Hernando Ocampo, using them as a starting point for his designs.
Guests were also treated to four special collections, starting with ethereal-inspired pieces by last year’s winner, Yssa Inumerable, who referenced the Women with Baskets and Fruits (1958) painting by Anita Magsaysay Ho. Patrick Lazol (Tarlac), Jared Servano (South Cotabato), Geom Hernandez (Batangas), Jema Gamer (La Union), Irene Subang (Negros Occidental), Nina Gatan (Quezon City), Koko Gonzales (Mandaluyong City), and Lexter Badana (Capiz) rounded out this year’s roster of finalists.
Next up were the three mentors of the Ternocon finalists. The first was Rhett Eala, whose design inspirations spanned decades—from the ’50s to the late ’90s—captured in regal black-and-white shades. Lulu Tan Gan showcased what she does best with effortless, breezy pieces that primarily champion the piña fabric. Last, but certainly not least, was Ezra Santos, whose enchanting creations in rose gold, mocha, gold, cream, and lime punch hues were nothing short of breathtaking.
“Your creativity and dedication breathe new life into the terno, ensuring it transcends our past, present, and future as Filipinos,” said CCP President Kaye C. Tinga, who continues to collaborate with Suyen Corporation. “Your work today stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of the terno and fashion as part of our cultural identity.”
There is something truly romantic about wearing a garment—modernized, thanks to these young designers and Ternocon—that carries our nation’s history. Every time I slip into a terno, a deep sense of nationalism fills my heart. I wear it with pride, sharing the unique details that make each piece a personal and beautiful representation of our cultural heritage.