Poetry in RED
Fashion and philanthropy unite in a moving tribute to love at the 14th Red Charity Gala.
Fashion, artistry and philanthropy converged at the 14th Red Charity Gala, held at The Peninsula Manila, where designer JC Buendía unveiled a breathtaking collection inspired by the beauty and poetry of Asian silhouettes. Framed by a dramatic installation of red lanterns masterfully conceived by Ariel Lozada, the collection unfolded in a succession of exquisite creations. Each look was marked by understated elegance, fluidity and effortless sophistication.
The evening reached its crescendo with an emotional Buendía escorting Bea Milan-Windorski down the runway as a bride a splendid piña creation. The poignant finale brought the glittering audience to its feet in a resounding standing ovation.
“JC Buendía’s collection was just breathtaking and reminded Tessa and me why we continue to do this year after year,” said an elated gala co-chair Kaye Tinga.
For Buendía, the collection carried a significance that transcended fashion. He dedicated his body of work to the woman whose grace, presence, and enduring memory continue to inspire him most: his beloved mother. This deeply personal tribute lent an added layer of emotion to an already memorable evening, transforming the runway into an expression of love, remembrance and the enduring power of a mother’s influence.
MELBA Solidum, Small Laude, Anton San Diego, Carol Garcia, Alice Eduardo, Tina Ocampo and Ching Cruz.
ALICE Eduardo and daughter Jacqueline.
MARGA, Karlo and Nikka Nograles.
MARIFE Zamora, Marites Fernando, Nikki Coseteng and Eisa Mercado.
DETTE Tan and Rep. Audrey Zubiri (seated), Michelle Tiangco, Kathy Huang and Mackenzie Huang (standing).
WENDY Puyat, Bea Ledesma, Pie Alvarez (seated), Claire Mercado and Sandra Soriano (standing).
TESSA Prieto and Kaye Tinga.
LULU Tan Gan Chito Vijandre, Ricky Toledo (seated), Joey Samson and Jojie Lloren (standing).
Beyond the glamour of the fashion show, Tinga and fellow gala co-chair Tessa Prieto had another reason to celebrate: the remarkable success of the charity auction. The coveted lots included artworks by Katrina Cuenca, Bridget Co, Doktor Karayom, Moumen Aldaker and Art Rojas; exquisite jewelry from DIAGOLD and Jewelmer; trips to exciting destinations via Emirates and Philippine Airlines; and luxurious stays at The Peninsula properties in Beijing, Chicago, and Istanbul.
Among the generous winning bidders were Joy Rustia, Erica Reyes, Myda Prieto, Bridget Ngo, Sheila Romero, Pie Alvarez, Aivee Teo, and Steven Ticzon, whose contributions helped make the evening’s philanthropic mission a resounding success.
“The results of the auction were phenomenal, and we are so happy we can continue to support the Philippine Red Cross, Assumption HS ’81 Foundation, Hope for Lupus Foundation, and the Little Sisters of the Abandoned Elderly,” Prieto said.
A much-anticipated fixture on Manila’s social calendar, the Red Charity Gala has, for 14 years, brought together fashion and philanthropy in support of meaningful causes. Drawing more than 500 guests each October, the annual event harnesses the influence of the fashion and social communities to raise funds for its charitable beneficiaries.
Over the years, the gala has showcased collections by an impressive roster of Filipino designers including Dennis Lustico, Furne One, Michael Cinco, Cary Santiago, Ezra Santos, Jojie Lloren, Lesley Mobo, Chito Vijandre, Joey Samson, Rajo Laurel, Ivarluski Aseron, Lulu Tan-Gan and Rhett Eala. In celebrating established names while inspiring the next generation of design talent, the Red Charity Gala continues to affirm the creative excellence of Filipino fashion and its capacity to make a meaningful difference.
Ultimately, the evening was about more than just beautiful clothes, coveted auction pieces, or a glamorous gathering of Manila’s society. It was a celebration of generosity and shared purpose—a reminder that when fashion finds its heart in philanthropy, it can become a force for good.