Fashion and art are powerful platforms for expressing national pride and heritage. Inspired by the elegance and purity of Filipino heritage — featuring all-white looks crafted from local textiles like piña, callado, and inabel for his collection, fashion designer Michael Leyva shines with “Perlas ng Silanganan” recently presented last 20 June at the Philippine Pavilion, World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.

Modern tradition

When design takes history on a new spin, the beauty of change happens. Michael says, “ I wanted to adapt to modernization and at the same time give tribute to the classic.” The 10-piece breathtaking immaculate collection updates the barong and terno, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary design. A favorite look was the oversized cropped barong paired with a hand beaded inabel skirt — an homage to tribute to the fusion of both history and innovation. The special momentous presentation was made possible through the support of the Office of the President and the First Lady, who advocates Philippine craftsmanship and weaving communities. Like the Pearl, Filipino talent standouts out with its distinct beauty in form (cut), design (clarity) and message (carat) — through designer Michael Leyva. Mabuhay!