Then there is MAC

At the mere mention of Cebu, what comes to mind right away? There are a lot of things. These include white sand beaches, hospitable people, and historical landmarks, the Sinulog mardigras, the Miraculous Sto. Nino, music gems and more. Recently though, another description has been added to describe the Queen City of the South and that is none other than being a haven of beautiful women who have achieved greatness in the modeling and pageant circuits. This was all after the birth of the Models Association of Cebu, 10 years ago. What was started by respected designer Protacio as a means to fill in the need of models who are at par with Manila walking mannequins has become a jumping board for men and women who aspire to find their niche in the prestigious Bb. Pilipinas Beauty Pageant and also in top model searches. They have not only made great impression and bold impact, but they have also triumphed and conquered.

The economic turmoil that hit Asia in the late 90's bolstered the formation of MAC because it was more economical than to fly in models from the capital to wear the creations of Cebu's top caliber designers. This gave way to the development of homegrown models who undeniably have what it takes to make it big. At the same time, an excellent partnership between designers and models was established. Later on, Protacio was very occupied with his career as designer so he eventually handed the responsibility of guiding MAC to greater heights to Valeriano "Chicoy" Tomol III. But Protacio did not totally turn his back. He remains in the background as adviser.

From 1996 up to now, MAC has been very visible not only locally and nationally but internationally, as well, where its models are greatly in demand. Among its in-house models who have made a name for themselves include 1997 Elite Model Philippines Charity Lagahid, 2001 Supermodel of the World-Philippines Marjay Ramirez, 2003 Miss Cebu, 2004 Bb. Pilipinas-World and 2004 Queen of Asia Oceania Karla Bautista, 2002 Miss Cebu, 2005 Bb. Pilipinas 2nd runner up Melanie Ediza, 2003 Miss Mandaue and reigning Miss Cebu Stephanie Señires and Bb. Pilipinas Anna Maris Igpit who is now competing for the Miss World crown in Warsaw Poland.

MAC is definitely at the top of its game. Being the only DTI and City Hall registered modeling agency in Cebu, it is poised to discover the faces that would be tomorrow's billboard and magazine subjects. Thus, as its way of sharing its blessings, MAC teamed up with Norkis Yamaha for the staging of its 10th year anniversary photo exhibit and fashion show happening at the Ayala Entertainment Center on September 29 at 5:30 pm. Creations of Cebu's top designers Protacio, Marichu Tan, Edwin Ao, Jude Elardo, Rey Kuan, Ren Manabat, Wendell Quisido and Dubai based Fern Oné will be given life by MAC's very own catwalk princes and princess who would be joined by its kings and queens. Be there or you will not see MAC!