The Quintessential Valera

He was an innovative fashion designer. He revised the Maria Clara, a four-piece ensemble consisting of a blouse, skirt, overskirt and scarf. He highlighted the bell sleeves, which were copied by many. He transformed the terno into a one-piece silhouette that was fastened with a zipper, and did away with hooks.

He shocked the alta sociedad of Manila when he intentionally omitted the panuelo from the terno. He ventured into bold colors and combinations unheard of. He created the "close open" technique, which was usually a full-length coat that revealed an elegant beaded dress underneath. He was all these and a lot more. A gentleman, a perfectionist, an artist.

What better way to preserve the work and memory of this Filipino designer than with a coffee table book that will serve as a teaching tool and inspiration to our young fashion practitioners?

His name was Don Ramon Valera.

Ms. Nedy Tantoco, president of the Tantoco Rustia Foundation immediately solicited assistance from friends who were just as eager and willing to put the task to work. The committee consisted of the following: Irene Martel Francisco, publisher of the Philippine Tatler who generously sponsored the book in memory of her beloved mother Luz Puyat Martel who was a good friend and client of Don Ramon; Criselda Lontok and Danny Dolor curated the gowns; Glenn Gale and Marge Enriquez chronicled the artists' life; and Abe Florendo was requested to edit the book.

In Cebu, the successful book launch entitled: Valera, Cada Traje es Una Obra Maestra, was made possible with the unconditional help of the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel headed by its president Rexlon Gatchalian, and hands-on General Manager Marco Protacio. Jing Ramos, editor of the glossy magazine Zee, the flag carrier Philippine Airlines, and florist Pinky Chang ably assisted them.

Cebu's alta sociedad and firm believers of style and perfection were in attendance. They included the city's First Lady Margot Osmeña, interior designer Rosebud Sala, party planner Teresin Mendezona, philanthropists Annie Aboitiz and Amparito Lhuillier, socialites Marguerite Lhuillier and Joy Onglatco, enterprising ladies Iris Arcenas, Rose Hennessey, Valerie Lim and Rona Barba.

Manila personalities were there, as well. Tourism Assistant Secretary Edu Jarque, Goya Reynoso - a niece of Ramon Valera, Rustan's designer Criselda Lontok, writers Abe Florendo and Glen Gale and Michael Huang who represented the Tantoco Rustia Foundation.

After the launch, a fashion show unfolded. Selected Cebuano designers such as Philip Rodriguez, Arcy Gayatin, Oj Hofer, Protacio Empaces, Jude Elardo and Marichu Tan created their own Valera inspired gowns that were received with much admiration and applause.