DAVAO CITY – Some 50 indigenous youth scholars under the Iskolar ng Tribu program are set to receive school supplies and cash assistance following the successful launching of Icon Elites Artist Management’s “Sculptura 2025 Fashion Show” in a hotel here on Sunday night, April 13.

THE Icon Elites Artist Management conducts a fashion show for the benefit of the indigenous youth scholars under the Iskolar ng Tribu program in Davao City on April 13. (Ivy Tejano)
Dubbed “Ang Sining ng Pananamit,” Paul Austin Garcia, founder and president of the Icon Elites Artist Management, said the event aims to enhance educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth, strongly focusing on inclusivity and empowerment while showcasing fashion designs.
“It’s been my honor and privilege to stand before you as we complete another round of fashion shows—more than just fashion—it is an advocacy in motion,” Garcia said.
Garcia said he is using this platform to give back to the community and inspire others, especially those in need of support. He added that the organization also hopes to bring about positive changes to the IP community.
The event highlighted the organization’s newest signature piece by Garcia and apparel inspired from the classical Roman sculptures by fashion designer Jessalyn Yui Bundaon – emphasizing Roman art style known for its realism and grandeur –also marked the IEAM’s 6th anniversary.
Gelli Sabas, representative for the Iskolar ng Tribu, thanked the Icon Elites for choosing them as the beneficiary of their fashion show-for-a-cause. She said the Iskolar ng Tribu remains a space that empowers young IP scholars to become leaders and guardians of their cultural heritage.
Iskolar ng Tribu was started in June 2022 by former IP Mandatory Rep. Datu Rodolfo Mande. It became an official program here in Davao City following the passage of an ordinance by the Sangguniang Panlungsod that supported its creation.
According to the City Government of Davao, the IPMR does not offer direct financial aid to IP students but refers them to higher education institutions through formal agreements with partner schools. These institutions provide tuition fee discounts depending on the availability of slots.