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Tela Mindanao Fashion Show

Weaving Mindanao’s Heritage into Modern Fashion at SM CDO Downtown

DT · Sep 6, 2026, 1:17 AM

MODELS showcase handwoven Mindanao textiles transformed into contemporary designs during the Tela Mindanao Fashion Show at SM CDO Downtown in Cagayan de Oro City. — PHOTOGRAPHS courtesy of sm

A MODERN take on the classic Baro’t Saya gets a distinctly Mindanaoan treatment, blending traditional weave and contemporary silhouette on the Tela Mindanao runway.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Culture, fashion, and community took center stage at SM CDO Downtown as Tela Mindanao showcased the rich weaving heritage of Mindanao through a vibrant fashion show, one of the highlights of the Higalaay Festival 2026.

The showcase featured 72 pieces across six sets of collections, transforming handwoven textiles into contemporary fashion. Renowned Mindanao-based designer Gil Macaibay III led the collections, featuring Mindanao silk, Hinabol, Malong, Landap and Balud. Emerging designer Martha Rodriguez also brought a fresh perspective to Mindanaoan fashion, highlighting the versatility of indigenous textiles through modern design.

SVELTE rendition of the South’s figure-hugging traditional dresses turns indigenous fabric into a graceful contemporary statement.

The collections demonstrated how traditional craftsmanship can move beyond cultural displays and become part of the modern Filipino wardrobe, from statement pieces for special occasions to designs suited for everyday wear.

More than a fashion showcase, Tela Mindanao highlighted the resilience of Mindanao’s weaving communities, who continue to navigate limited market opportunities, rising production costs, and competition from machine-made imitations. By bringing authentic handwoven textiles to the runway, the event gave greater visibility to local artisans and encouraged audiences to appreciate and support their craftsmanship.

At SM CDO Downtown, Tela Mindanao became a platform where culture, fashion, creativity and community came together. The showcase connected indigenous weaving traditions with contemporary design while opening opportunities for local artisans to reach wider audiences and markets.

FIVE ramp models present an eclectic mix of contemporary looks inspired by Mindanao’s rich weaving traditions, from flowing silhouettes to playful modern interpretations.

As part of Higalaay Festival 2026, Tela Mindanao delivered a message that goes beyond fashion. At SM CDO Downtown, the most-loved mall destination, every thread brought culture, creativity, and community together, showing how heritage, when worn, celebrated, and valued, can help preserve traditions, strengthen communities, and weave a brighter future for Mindanao. Here, maxed-out experiences bring culture, creativity and community closer to everyone.