This year’s State of the Nation Address (SoNA) ditched its red carpet flair for a toned-down affair, following the nation’s struggles with widespread flooding. A memo from the House of Representatives called for modest fashion and skipped the usual parade route, silencing the so-called “Met Gala of Philippine politics.”

But Instagram buzzed while the hallways remained silent. Social media became a makeshift runway for fashion, with “lowkey” outfits and purposeful minimalism emerging as the newest trends. Though more subdued, contemporary and purpose-driven this year, Filipiniana is still very much in the spotlight. 

As in previous SoNAs, actress Heart Evangelista led the digital catwalk in an ensemble by Michael Leyva that encapsulated “perfection in simplicity.” She wore a woven Filipiniana skirt with an elongated modern Barong Tagalog, which was sophisticated yet resonant in support of husband Senate President Chiz Escudero for the inaugural session.

One of the most daring fashion statements was created by Kabataan Representative Renee “Gigil Girl” Co, who combined art and activism. In collaboration with artist-activist Gaia Mauricio, the “protest couture” was designed by Albert Raqueño. The focal point was a hand-painted picture of a Filipina emerging from floodwaters, signifying youth-led opposition to structural problems.

First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos was simple and elegant in a Michael Leyva red Filipiniana.

Tootsy Echauz-Angara, wife of senator Sonny Angara, combined minimalism with sculptured drapes in a cream Terno by Rajo Laurel, channeling understated elegance.

Margarita Gutierrez, Department of Justice Undersecretary, was featured in designer Mark Bumgarner’s butter-yellow design, which had gentle flowing folds. She had a kind, refined and carefree appearance.

Mylene Gonzales, wife of Congressman Roy Gonzales, wore a pristine white Terno by Jhobes Estrella, leaning into effortless elegance and timeless appeal.

Congresswoman Queenie Gonzales turned heads in vibrant fuchsia, delivering a modern Terno silhouette that was as bold as it was refined — a quiet flex that still honored heritage.

Senator Risa Hontiveros attracted attention with an all-white serpentina gown and a Michael Leyva-designed lace Filipiniana bolero, which was elegantly tightened with a ribbon accent and a belted Terno jacket.

Meanwhile, Congresswoman Linabelle Ruth R. Villarica of Bulacan donned a modern Maria Clara inspired by the timeless elegance of the Traje de Mestiza. This ensemble beautifully captures the interplay of luxurious silk and indigenous piña fabrics, delicately accentuated with intricate Filipino floral embroidery.

Dina Tantoco, Deputy Social Secretary, wore a black-and-white Filipiniana by Michael Leyva for a touch of elegance in contrast.

Soft, stunning and effortlessly royal, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach looked like a rose on the runway while wearing white Filipiniana.

Gladys Villanueva, wife of Senator Joel Villanueva, came dressed in a black Michael Leyva design.

Ma. Anna Kathryna Pimentel, the President’s Special Envoy to the United Arab Emirates for Trade & Investments, stepped out in a sleek Terno by Avel Bacudio — diplomacy meets Filipino finesse. photograph courtesy of renee co/IG