MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. acknowledged First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and former First Lady Imelda Marcos for their dedicated efforts in promoting local designers, artisans, and traditional Filipino craftsmanship during a cultural event in Taguig City.
Following the “Filipiniana: A Celebration of Filipino Fashion Heritage and Craftsmanship” gathering at Bonifacio Global City on Wednesday evening, November 4, the President expressed pride in celebrating the nation’s heritage alongside them.
“Their shared appreciation for Filipino fashion and tradition has helped bring greater recognition to the talent, creativity, and craftsmanship of our Filipino designers and artisans,” Marcos stated on social media, describing the event as a tribute to national identity and the richness of Philippine culture.
“May we continue to take pride in the traditions that make us uniquely Filipino and in the remarkable talent of those who preserve and carry them forward.”
The event united prominent fashion designers, industry figures, and weaving communities to highlight indigenous textiles and traditional attire. In related posts by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), industry leaders credited the First Lady’s active support for reviving the local textile sector.
Fashion designer Paul Cabral emphasized the critical need to mentor younger generations to keep heritage weaving alive.
“Yung mga Filipino, yung mga artisans natin, nako-continue mo kasi yung tradition. Kasi siyempre kung nakakaedad na yung dating mga gumagawa, dapat maipasa nila para magtuloy-tuloy. Kasi syempre it represents our country,” Cabral noted.
“Mula nang umupo siya (First Lady Araneta-Marcos), parang yung weaving industry, parang nabuhay ulit,” he added.
Creative director Patrick Rosas shared a similar sentiment regarding documentation and legacy.
“I want to show this here to preserve the history, to archive it, and for future generations,” Rosas said.
Meanwhile, designer Michael Leyva expressed gratitude for the platform provided to local creators, praising the First Lady’s steadfast backing of weaving communities nationwide.