When news meet Fashion and Art

What began as a modest, tightly-timed collaboration in 2024 between DAILY TRIBUNE and Salcedo Auctions turned out to be the spark that redefined how fashion, art and media could come together. It created such a buzz that guests and friends of DAILY TRIBUNE were already asking for a second round before the lights went out that evening.

That first event was personal and produced on a compressed timeline. But even with its limitations, it was a success. Among those in attendance was First Lady Liza Marcos Araneta, whose presence added gravitas to the intimate affair.

This year, DAILY TRIBUNE celebrates its 25th anniversary. Salcedo Auctions, meanwhile, is marking 15 years. It was only fitting to make the sequel bigger and more meaningful. The result was “The Vanguards,” a three-part celebration of art, fashion and journalistic excellence held on 20 July 2025 at NEX Tower in Ayala Avenue, Makati City.

At the heart of the collaboration was the desire to spotlight culture and sustainability not just as advocacy, but as action. As DAILY TRIBUNE executive vice president Chingbee Fernandez shared in an earlier feature, “Willie is an art enthusiast. In this time and age… people could be bitter with regards to their beliefs and politics. Very violent. For our 25th year, we thought, ‘Why not focus on something that will unite us, that for some people, will bring joy?’.”

To help bring the vision to life, DAILY TRIBUNE brought in two creative forces: Filipino couture designer Jor-el Espina and award-winning filmmaker Gabriel Malvar.

Espina, whose “Heirloom Collection” recently paid tribute to his roots with guidance from fashion legend Patis Tesoro, anchored the fashion showcase.

Malvar, known for documenting lesser-known cultural workers and remote communities, was featured for his distinct lens. As Fernandez explained, “Gabby is the poster boy of the immense talent that we have but is less spotlighted.”

Sustainability anchored the 2025 campaign. For DAILY TRIBUNE, that meant not only care for the planet but also commitment to sustainability in journalism.

“DAILY TRIBUNE will be here 25 to 50 years from now as long as we stay true to our motto, we write the news as we see it. And of course, without bias,” Fernandez said.

The event was carefully curated to ensure that every partner contributed meaningfully to the experience. As all of our brand partners over the years know, we are able to pursue news, thankfully too, with their help.

Diageo brought in Singleton for a whisky tasting experience, while Philippine Wine Merchants offered a curated selection of reds, whites and rosés. Guests enjoyed the best pairings and cocktails throughout the day. Meanwhile, food support for the hardworking staff, models, and production crew was generously provided by Bistro Group, Guevarra’s and Ayala Corporation.

Dessert came in the form of a creamy, generous scoop of Sweet Halika gelato, which quickly became a crowd favorite. It was the kind of feel-good sweetness that capped off the celebration just right.

And then came the raffles and giveaways. Me-time essentials from Marie France, Svenson and Facial Care Centre gave lucky attendees pamper-ready perks. Singleton bottles were up for grabs for the gentlemen, while Aeropostale and Hurley gave away shopping vouchers for the ladies. Megaworld Hotels’ Choose Your Stay campaign also delighted guests with staycations at their preferred properties.

As the fashion took center stage, Carolina Herrera made a stylish statement by auctioning a one-of-a-kind Insignia bag, a special edition created for their recent brand milestone. And it did not go unnoticed that DAILY TRIBUNE managing and lifestyle editor Dinah Ventura arrived styled in Carolina Herrera herself. The dress was stylish and comfortable. Even better, “It has pockets.”

On the art front, Salcedo Auctions opened its gallery with a rare exhibition titled “Constancio Bernardo: Color & Clarity,” featuring 19 works by the Filipino pioneer of abstraction. The exhibit runs until 2 August.

Salcedo Auctions Chairman Richie Lerma said in his address, “Fifteen years ago, Salcedo Auctions began with a singular vision to create a world-class platform for Philippine art, antiques and collectibles.” His wife and Salcedo CFO Karen Lerma introduced the featured artist as “the true vanguard of Philippine modernism.”

The event also highlighted DAILY TRIBUNE’s evolution over the past two and a half decades. “Its transformation into a multimedia platform… to be an integrated media,” Fernandez said. “We have digital, which is already making waves. The public is taking notice.”

The seamless program was made possible through the support of DAILY TRIBUNE’s long-time production and media allies. Newport World Hotels, Mango, EON Group, Philippine Development Foundation, Brandplay, MECO and Potato Corner helped ensure that the day ran smoothly while also backing the publication’s broader vision of sustainable journalism.

“The Vanguards” was not just a celebration. It was a statement that art, journalism and fashion can coexist and inspire. Through vision, partnerships and a bit of flair, DAILY TRIBUNE showed how legacy and innovation can live side by side.