More than a fashion statement

Showcasing the best of Filipino culture and heritage through fashion was successfully presented at “Lahi,” Rajo Laurel’s couture collection that was mounted in Thailand. Last week, the Lumpini Room and Lawn of Dusit Thani Hotel in Bangkok was transformed into a sanctuary of Filipino artistry, as the Department of Trade and Industry’s Malikhaing Pinoy initiative, together with the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council, presented Rajo’s masterpieces.

More than a fashion showcase, the evening stood as a powerful exercise in cultural diplomacy, reinforcing the Philippines’ creative voice on the global stage.

After the presscon last month in which some of the designs were presented to the media, I knew not to miss this event. After all, my outrageous fashion ideas come to life, thanks to the brilliance of Rajo’s creativity. His love of texture and fabric manipulation has translated to the most amazing silhouettes.

Originally planned for November 2025, the fashion show was moved to Jan. 30, 2026 to also mark the country’s participation in Bangkok Design Week. This is a significant milestone for Philippine fashion as it strengthens creative diplomacy between the Philippines and Thailand.

The celebration began a day earlier with an intimate welcome dinner at Nara Thai Cuisine Siam Paragon, hosted for international media and select guests of Rajo. Set against refined Thai cuisine, the gathering offered a warm prelude to the showcase—fostering cultural exchange and setting the tone for the days that followed. Special thanks to Jen Yalung of My Closet Manager for the Rajo gown from her rental shop.

At the heart of the Bangkok presentation was a 33-piece couture collection by the visionary designer. Titled Lahi, the collection sought to answer the evolving question of Filipino identity through a visual journey that bridged history, geography, and community. Rajo’s contemporary lens reinterpreted tradition through the core value of bayanihan, brought to life in collaboration with Filipino creatives—Arnel Papa, Celestina Maristela Ocampo, Cholo Ayuyao, Monchét Diokno Olives, and MX Studios by Maxine Santos Tuaño—whose artisanal accessories completed each high-fashion narrative.

Several notable figures attended the Lahi show, including Thailand Creative Economy Agency executive director Chakrit Pichyangkul , Ambassador of the Philippines to Thailand H.E. Millicent Cruz Paredes, Department of Trade & Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque and Asec. Nylah Rizza Bautista, and former Senator Grace Poe.

The runway became a showcase of regional craftsmanship, drawing from indigenous materials across the Philippine archipelago. While these pieces headlined the evening, they represented only a glimpse of Rajo’s broader vision: one that underscored the depth, resilience, and global relevance of Philippine creativity under the banner of Malikhaing Pinoy.

After the most impressive fashion show at the most spectacular venue with the Bangkok skyline as its background, I congratulated show director Robbie Carmona and the rest of the team who made this event possible. As I always find a shopping opportunity, I headed to the jewelry display of Arnel Papa and got several pieces.

Kudos to Ginggay Joven Dela Merced and Visions PR team who made everything flawless and seamless for all. I could not get enough of Thai food so I ate at Nara Thai Cuisine when I returned home.

A Thai feast

Nara Thai Cuisine is a highly regarded Thai restaurant concept that originated in Bangkok. Founded in 2003 by entrepreneurs Yuki Srikarnchana and Sirisopa Chulasewok, the brand was built on sharing traditional family recipes and authentic Thai flavors with the world.

Sheila Romero brought Nara Thai Cuisine to the Philippines in 2018 to fill a gap in the local dining scene for quality Thai cuisine outside hotel fine dining settings. Its first Manila outlet opened at SM Megamall’s Mega Fashion Hall, quickly establishing itself as a destination for authentic Thai dishes.

Today, Nara Thai Philippines continues to grow and evolve as one of Metro Manila’s go-to spots for authentic Thai dining. The brand has expanded to multiple strategic locations, including Alabang and Makati, and it has diversified its offerings with catering services. Its commitment to quality has been recognized with multiple Thai Select certifications—a prestigious endorsement from the Ministry of Commerce of the Royal Thai Government awarded to its SM Megamall and Molito branches from 2019 to 2025 for consistently delivering exemplary Thai cuisine and hospitality.

Art belongs to the people

Art Fair Philippines 2026 is happening this weekend at Circuit Corporate Center One in Circuit Makati! This year’s theme is “A New Beginning,” and it is epic. You’ll get to experience 50 immersive exhibits, featuring 65 percent local artists and collectives, and leading galleries from France, Spain, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries.

Highlights include ArtFairPH/Projects, showcasing 10 visionary artists, including Imelda Cajipe Endaya, Ambie Abaño, and Max Balatbat; and ArtFairPH/Digital that features interactive digital art, animation, and virtual reality experiences and many more.

Tickets are available online and at the door. If you have Globe Platinum, you can avail of free admission for limited slots. Don’t miss out on this amazing celebration of Philippine art and culture!