Last July 30, a fashion show was held at the West Edmonton Mall Centre Stage, presented by Harlijk Productions, Bathala Creatives, MJ Productions and #miltStylesPH. This was MaKaPinoy, a celebration of Philippine culture through fashion and costumes, directed by Milton Salinas, with Rey Caparino as host and technical director.
The show featured a collection of about 180 pieces, featuring the designs of Edwin Uy, Milton Salinas, Riyadh-based Allen Evangelista, Kenneth Nabua, Jose Roberto Madrigal, Khandie Segovia, Mark Cezar Ola, and Dianne Joie Alcantara, for the accessories. The highlights of the show were the segments on: the award-winning costumes and elaborate headdresses by Edwin Uy in international pageants; Filipiniana designs by Edwin Uy; Bado Ystilo on Philippine-weave fabrics by Milton Salinas; and modern barongs by Allen Evangelista.
The collections, that balanced couture and wearability, were modelled not just by professional and aspiring models, but community members of diverse culture, ages, sizes and gender. The segments were backed up with popular Filipino music evoking the mood and sentimentality of the designs. The show was opened by a martial arts demonstration by the Philippine Warrior Arts Society, and had special musical performances by Koro Filipino and Hannah Adamson. It also featured Filipino enterprises and creatives like LexaArtWorld, April Angeles Art, Philippine Warrior Arts Society, World Financial Group, Allstate Insurance with Rei Vincent Magtarayo and Chan International. The show was also supported by the Philippine Arts Council, and the Edmonton Philippine International Centre (EPIC).
The show at the West Edmonton Mall had an estimated 400+ audience according to mall management, and the biggest number they've had for the year. The show was not only entertaining, but made people aware and proud of the stunning creativity and craftsmanship of Filipino artists. It was indeed a beautiful sight. The same collections were also presented in Calgary.
For parties interested in acquiring one of the designs, or having one custom-made, contact Harlijk Productions and/or Bathala Creatives through their FB pages.
Photo credits: Pam Photoshots
* This article was published in the August 2022 issue of the Alberta Filipino Journal.
Do you know of a Filipino, or of Filipino-descent, artist/creative or an art and culture event that should be featured? Send a message to PhilippineArtsCouncil@gmail.com.
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