Pitoy takes his collection to the south

The indefatigable Pitoy Moreno, Asia’s Fashion Czar, once again showed his artistry in the Filipiniana Collection that he presented to Iloilo’s high society recently. The event was a collaboration between producers Jane Javellana and Amigo Terrace Hotel for the benefit of the Dominican Sisters Orphanage. Ilioilo’s distinguished families came out in full force to give their wholehearted support for the good sisters.

“I am so proud of our Filipino heritage and my fashion shows always show it,” Pitoy said of the Filipiniana theme. “Why should I compete with European and American couturiers when our Filipino dresses are so exquisite? Five years ago, the curator of the Mijo Museum in Osaka insisted on putting my Filipiniana costumes on an exclusive exhibition. During my stints in the different cities of Europe, I only showed Filipino-inspired dresses so the whole world would take notice of the beauty of our heritage. My collection always includes the tapis from the T-boli weaves, the Maria Clara, kimona, terno, and for ethnicity purposes, the Muslim costumes that I do very elaborately. My finale is always a bridal gown in piña. Whether it is a Maria Clara, a Muslim design, kimona or terno, the bridal gown has to be in piña because it truly is a Filipino fabric. These costumes draw raves from the audience and fashion critics.”

Pitoy’s expertise in Filipino costumes did not occur overnight. It was a meticulous process of 20 years of research on the evolution of the different Filipino costumes. When he finally felt he was ready for it, he compiled his research materials in a coffeetable book aptly titled Philippine Costume. In this book, he also features the different Filipiniana creations that he has designed for his clients in the past 20 years.

Last week in Iloilo, he wowed the crowd with another impressive collection that was modeled by some of Iloilo’s favorite citizens: Dr. Pacita Gonzalez, wife of Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez, former Guimaras Governor Emily Lopez, Maricar Chua, Marirose Cache, Ortha Lumanlan, Melanie Culminares, Marie Jean Cordero, Sheila Marie Chanco, Susan Florete, Cynthia Gulmatico, Tess Braza, Susan Abordo and show producer Jane Javellana.

When all of them came out in Pitoy’s ternos, the crowd applauded. It is not often that such an event happens in Iloilo City. Pitoy Moreno could not help but feel elated over the warm welcome and hospitality of the Ilonggos. They showered him with attention and made sure he had his fill of the delicacies that Iloilo is noted for.

This is the Ilonggo way of showing their appreciation to the man who shared with them the genius of his designs.