An iconic night to remember

Jose “Pitoy” Moreno, the iconic figure of Philippine fashion, has been celebrated via months-long exhibition entitled “Timeless: J. Moreno” at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila (The M Museum) in Global City. On 28 June, the museum’s first Annual Fundraising Gala entitled “Remembering Pitoy” marked the closing of this landmark exhibition, which showcased some of the astute designer’s most iconic creations.

The exhibition brought together beloved muses, models, brides and patronesses — women who helped immortalize Pitoy’s place in fashion history. These personal recollections, shared through treasured photographs and stories, became the heart of the gala and the inspiration behind its theme.

“Pitoy often said that true beauty lives not only in design, but in how we connect with one another. Tonight, through your presence, your support and your stories, you’ve proven that true,” said Doris Masaysay-Ho, co-chairman of the Remembering Pitoy Organizing Committee.

This masterpiece event was spearheaded by a dedicated committee chaired by Tina Colayco, president of The M; Doris Masaysay-Ho, vice chairman of the Board of Trustees; and Fe Rodriguez, Trustee, and supported by the brilliant creative team of Tina Ocampo and Maricris Floirendo Brias, who transformed one of The M’s galleries using layers of floating paper panels that served as screens upon which a video presentation was projected.

The concept and installation were envisioned by acclaimed designer-artist Tony Gonzales, with seamless video production by Enzo Razon, Dinesh Mohnani and Gio Panlilio of Tarzeer Pictures. A four-course dinner by celebrated chef Gilbert Panilinan of Kai. Chic tables were covered with striking table runners that had a detail of Pitoy’s original sketches silkscreened onto banana paper. A masterpiece idea by Ocampo made possible through the generosity of Brias, who supplied the paper.

Proceeds from the event will help support The M’s exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural preservation efforts — initiatives the museum has proudly championed for nearly 50 years.

Colayco, president of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, co-chairman of the Remembering Pitoy Organizing Committee, ended: “To all of you who made this evening possible — your presence, your generosity and your continued support — thank you. You honor us by standing with Pitoy and The M tonight, and by helping ensure that our exhibitions and educational programs continue to reach students, teachers, and communities across the country.”

Photos by Bea Ledesma, JJ Acuña and Jo Ann Bitagcol