A community fashion show featuring around 60 children modeling local handloom textiles and heritage products added vibrancy to the 2023 Panubli-on (heritage) trade fair in Western Visayas. The event, organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), was designed to foster awareness, education, and support for the region's local textiles, fashion accessories, and crafts among the younger generation. Creative Director PJ Arañador, in an interview on Wednesday, emphasized the importance of nurturing an appreciation for local products from a young age.
According to Philippines News Agency, the fashion show, which marked its return after a hiatus since 2019 due to the pandemic, witnessed a significant increase in participation, with the number of young models rising from 20 to about 60. The participants, ranging from preschoolers to teenagers, showcased an array of regional textiles and accessories, including patadyong textiles from Iloilo and Antique, smocked dresses from Negros Occidental, and handcrafted bags and fashion accessories from Aklan, Guimaras, Antique, Capiz, and Iloilo.
Arañador highlighted the need to balance the global fashion influence brought by the Internet with a strong sense of local identity and culture. The fashion show, lasting over an hour, not only boosted the children's confidence but also aimed to create a ripple effect benefiting producers and micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs in the region. The event underscored the importance of promoting and appreciating the local textile and crafts industry, even though small accents in everyday apparel.