Living blueprints: Philippine fashion’s OGs
Kindness is your most fundamental artistic and human attribute, and it is inspiring that you consistently pay it forward.
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Kindness is your most fundamental artistic and human attribute, and it is inspiring that you consistently pay it forward.
PHILIPPINE Fashion Coalition founding member Jackie Aquino.
Photographs courtesy of Jackie Aquino
(FRONT ROW) Eric Quizon, Robert David and Jack de Mesa. (Standing) JB Abesamis, Desiree Verdadero-Abesamis, Anna Lingad, Jan Garcia, Jackie Aquino, Tetta Ortiz-Matera, Maribel Lastimosa-Steinmann and Ricky Davao. (Third row) Jimmy Simbulan and Lito Gruet.
ONE of Jackie Aquino’s most recent shows.
OPTIONA show by Katrina Ponce Enrile that made Jackie Aquino known in the fashion industry. Boyet Santa Maria, Tonichi Nocom, Teofy Quintas, Techie Infantado, Randy Ortiz, Katrina Ponce Enrile, Bong Gacho and Jackie Aquino.
ONE of Jackie Aquino’s most recent shows.
EARLY industry days photo of Jojie Lloren.
Photographs by Luis Espiritu for DAILY TRIBUNE
AT his notable CCP solo exhibition in 2015 entitled ‘Musings with Muses’ with artist Impy Pilapi.
JOJIE Lloren as one of the hosts of ‘Project Runway Philippines.’
MASTERPIECE creation.
ROBBIE Carmona.
ROBBIE Carmona.
SHOW direction behind the scenes.
Events Producer/Director since 1984
Beginnings
I actually began in theater in 1983, but by accident, with the prodding of a late dear friend, Tonichi Nocom, I stumbled in fashion and events in 1984 and my lifelong passion was born.
Challenges
Maintaining sobriety and authenticity can be a formidable challenge, even after achieving a sense of success. Every moment presents a critical juncture where the decision to act in accordance with one’s values and principles is paramount.
Where I am now
After 42 years, I find myself giving back to an industry that gave me so much through Philippine Fashion Coalition as we navigate the roadmap that we hope will be supported by both public and private sectors with the aim to position Philippine fashion for global competitiveness by 2035.
Wisdom
Kindness is your most fundamental artistic and human attribute, and it is inspiring that you consistently pay it forward.
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Fashion designer, educator
Beginnings
I established my fashion business in August 1988 after gaining valuable experience working with Twenty-two B.C. and Christian Espiritu. Those early years provided me with a strong foundation in design, craftsmanship and the realities of the fashion industry, which eventually gave me the confidence to build my own brand.
Challenges
As a newcomer to the industry, one of the biggest challenges was attracting clients and establishing credibility. Running a business for the first time also meant learning how to manage operations, finances and people, while simultaneously solving technical and production-related issues. The learning process was gradual and often demanding, but those challenges became some of my greatest teachers.
Not everything you create will be successful, and recognizing weaknesses is often the first step toward improvement.
Where I am now
Today, I continue to design made-to-measure formalwear and bridalwear, which remain my primary creative focus. At the same time, I serve as a mentor and administrator at FAB Creatives, where I help nurture the next generation of fashion professionals and creative entrepreneurs.
Wisdom
Always approach your work with professionalism and integrity. Strive to be someone who is reliable, collaborative and easy to work with. Avoid procrastination — it often creates unnecessary stress and compromises quality.
Remember that your greatest competition is not other people, but your previous self. Continually challenge yourself to improve, learn and grow. Develop the discipline to save and invest for the future. Stay curious and never stop learning.
Be honest with yourself as a designer. Not everything you create will be successful, and recognizing weaknesses is often the first step toward improvement. Practice restraint in design; sometimes less is more. Finally, understand the business side of creativity — do your math, know your costs, and make informed decisions. Talent is important, but sustainability comes from combining creativity with sound judgment.
Events and fashion show producer/ director Founder, Saga Events Inc.
Beginnings
I started my career as a model in high school. When I was 22, I founded Saga Events from a small apartment on Boni Avenue with just a typewriter, a fax machine and three CDs. There was no social media then, so I relied on the Yellow Pages to find potential clients, making cold calls and sending proposals by fax. Those early years taught me resilience, resourcefulness and the importance of building relationships — values that continue to guide me today.
Challenges
The biggest challenge in my career was building Saga Events despite having no business or corporate background. After my experience in modeling and working as an OFW in Japan, I decided to pursue my dream of creating meaningful runway presentations.
Starting from scratch meant learning everything on my own — from event production and logistics to managing people, budgets and client expectations. There were times when resources were limited, obstacles seemed overwhelming and I questioned whether I was capable of bringing my vision to life. What helped me overcome those challenges was my determination to keep learning and my faith in God’s guidance. Every setback became an opportunity to grow, and every successful event strengthened my confidence and commitment to my craft.
Even today, despite directing numerous fashion shows and events, I still feel nervous before every production. But I see that as a positive sign — it reminds me that I care deeply about my work and that I never take the responsibility of creating a memorable experience for my audience for granted.
I always end my prayer during company call with my life verse, Mark 11:24 — ‘Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.’
Where I am now
I am currently the founder of Saga Events, where I continue to do what I love most — collaborating with brands and designers to bring their visions to life through immersive fashion presentations.
I am passionate about bringing Filipino talent to the international runway and showcasing the very best of Filipino creativity to the world. At the same time, I dedicate myself to mentoring and sharing my knowledge with young creatives who dream of succeeding in the industry, just as I did when I was starting out.
Wisdom
I always end my prayer during company call with my life verse, Mark 11:24 — “Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” In Jesus’ name. Amen.
