Designer Tadashi Shoji gives back to the country that loves him
When Nedy Tantoco sent an invitation to the preview of Tadashi Shoji’s holiday 2013 collection, I readily agreed because I was eager to see what was in store for the festive season with dresses made of lace, velvet and flowing fabrics interspersed with sequins, paillettes and sparkling crystals. And I remember fondly when this creative genius came over to my house for an intimate dinner last year. He was such a genuinely endearing person — approachable, kind, intelligent and thoughtful.
During the pre-show cocktails at the Rizal Ballroom of Makati Shangri-La Hotel, Tadashi was visible to everyone and would readily chat or accede to have his photo taken. Marivic Rufino, Charisse Chuidian, Jean Saburit, Malyn Santos, Nicole Gaw and several others were wearing his dresses and you could see his eyes lighting up and his face breaking into a smile every time he would spot his creations from afar. 
The beneficiary of the fashion event was the Assumption Transformative School in Passi, Iloilo, which imparts religious, social and moral values to students so that they become assets in their respective communities. The famed designer contributed US$5,000 to add to the donations that were collected during the event.
“I am honored to return to the Philippines. Philanthropy is important to both myself and Rustan’s and to be active within the community is fundamental. I am humbled to be a part of the school’s aid,†Tadashi said.
It is noteworthy that in Nedy’s Assumption Class of 1963, there were three classmates — Fidelis Estrada, Bernadette Casas and Stella Sanz, who is in the Assumption mother house in France — who joined the religious order. Sisters Fidelis and Bernadette, who are based in the Philippines, accepted Tadashi’s generous contribution at the show’s finale.
What a wonderful batting average for religious life coming from just one class that grew up during the mod ‘60s. No wonder they feel so blessed.
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The Tadashi Shoji collection is available in Rustan’s Makati and Shangri-La Plaza.
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