The mindset at the 12th Mindanao Fashion Summit was to make the so-called "Land of Promise" a current, relevant and prime mover in the creative marketplace.

Organized by the Oro Fashion Designers Guild, led by its president Mark Christopher Yaranon, the three-day fashion presentation was held at the Ayala Malls Centrio as a highlight of the city's Higalaay Festival. The shows were directed by Robbie Fortich Pamisa, with hair and makeup by John Steinmann and the Beautifully Beautified Team.

On Day 2, 24 August, was the showcase for the especially invited guest designers from all over the South. Their participation made the MFS a truly Mindanao affair, as the talented designers displayed the exuberant vibe that non-visitors should know of.

Here, the proud Mindanaoans share some insights into their exquisite collections.

BONIE ADAZA (DAVAO CITY)

"'Ampik,' the title of my five-piece collection, is a Maguindanaoan term for the checkered pattern of an inaul. My inspiration is the baro't saya with a Mindanaoan vibe.

"I used non-commercialized inaul fabric from Maguindanao, custom-woven by their weavers, which can't be found in the market. I also added callado embroidery as accents; and piña cocoon for the inner barongs Tagalog that I put anchor threads on, forming a checkered pattern to add texture. I sprayed the traditional farmers' hats to make them more stylish. The colors of my clothes are green, pink, magenta and light green, all to represent Kadayawan, our city's festivity of harvest. The cuts are boxy and oversized to make it modern.

"I joined the MFS because of the great opportunity to showcase my talent in creating fashionably Mindanaoan outfits. There are lots of great talents in Mindanao. All I can say is that the MFS is a good platform for us!"