Contemporary Crusades

CEBU, Philippines – The Crusades searched for the Holy Cross, headed by Queen Helena and her son Constantine. After generations, this long search for the Holy Cross is being commemorated and integrated into Philippine culture during the merry month of May through the Santacruzan. Local flavor is added by incorporating the Blessed Virgin Mary’s virtues and titles relegated to fair maidens dressed in the traditional terno.

Thus, Hotel, Resort, Restaurant Association of Cebu (HRRAC) with Clothes for Life Foundation staged an annual modern crusade. Under the tutelage of HRRAC President Marco Protacio, the main progenitor of uplifting age old traditions, like the Santacruzan. With him are Cebu’s recognizable designers whose modern crusade also is for the Philippine terno to be recognized as integral part in the local setting of formal affairs.

This year it gets better. The symbolism is more emphasized as each reina and zagala carries with her the representation of the virtue or title of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The designers also were inspired to create the elegant terno with the theme – red carpet, showcasing their creativity and craftsmanship. Featured here are some of the reinas and zagalas in full regalia headed by this year’s Reina Emperatriz, Marguerite Lhuillier, and Reina Elena, Tricia Gullas.

Bravisimo!