Ternocon returns to showcase the creations of emerging Filipino designers. It is now on its third run since its 2018 and 2020 conventions.

A collaboration between Bench/Suyen Corporation and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, through its Cultural Exchange Department, the fashion event aims to continue, preserve, and promote the traditions of terno-making.

This year's theme highlights the balintawak, a version of the terno that features a camisa with butterfly sleeves and a saya. It is often worn with an alampay and a tapis wrapped around the waist.

Ternocon III artistic director Gino Gonzales said that in the 1920s and 1930s, this piece was worn during town fiestas, pilgrimages to Antipolo, and during studio settings for portraits with painted scenery of farms, seascapes, and gardens. The dress was intended to be an informal attire but evolved as a formal dress in the next decades.

"We have an outfit that's inspired by a rural setting. It's not too formal, not too expensive, and it's more practical," he said.

This month, select designers will interpret the balintawak both in its traditional form and modern version.

"Judging from what I saw during the workshop, most of them have special skills in surface decoration, and skills not too many of the senior designers have," Gonzales said.

Designers will present live fittings on models, styling discussions with chief stylists, and production lectures.

The organizers will host a series of lectures via Zoom for all interested applicants.

Gonzales acknowledged the generosity and continued support of Ternocon's chairman, Ben Chan.

The 2018 Ternocon, which displayed the "rebirth" of the terno, was followed by 2020's focus on the wearability of the terno.

The final round of the competition, along with a much-awaited cultural show, is slated on 28 January 2023.