Fashioning Heritage Through Piña Likha Season 3

By Maria Solita Zaldivar-Guzman

KALIBO, Aklan- Piña Likha is a collaboration project between the Local Government Unit of Kalibo and the Aklan Fashion Designers Association (AFDA), spearheaded by the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Division.

Its first season was launched in 2023, during which young Aklanon designers underwent a rigorous selection process, and the chosen participants were challenged to design and sew a dress for their assigned models in just three days. Inspired by the globally known show Project Runway, Piña Likha highlights the use of piña as its base fabric—Aklan’s pride and a symbol of world-class craftsmanship.

Participating designers are mentored by AFDA members, receiving professional guidance throughout the creative process. In its inaugural year, models were selected, and the project concluded with a fashion show and awards night on the third and final day at Kalibo Pastrana Park.

In 2024, Piña Likha introduced a refreshing approach by selecting real-life models, specifically government employees from the LGU Kalibo, from department heads to division chiefs. Since municipal officials and employees often attend formal gatherings, ceremonies, and events where Filipiniana attire is required, the theme focused on designs featuring Filipiniana sleeves. The fashion show took place at the historic Museo it Akean. For Season 3, with the theme “Piña Front and Forward,” real-life models from the municipal government were once again chosen but with a twist.

Aside from the dress-making competition, Piña Likha opened new categories for accessory and bag designers, welcoming artisans who specialize in handcrafted pieces. Participants were grouped into teams composed of one dress designer, one accessory designer, and one bag designer. Each team worked collaboratively to produce a cohesive collection: a dress, a bag, and accessories such as necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, tiaras, or shoe embellishments—primarily using piña and other local materials. As always, the designers were given three days to complete their pieces.

The final showcase was held at the Kalibo Ati-atihan Museum, with an improvised U-shaped runway surrounded by mannequins adorned in Ati-atihan costumes, miniature dolls wearing piña garments, and vibrant Ati-atihan-themed paintings—an atmosphere that echoed Aklan’s culture and artistry.

The event became a splendid night where government employees, each with unique body shapes and stories, walked the runway with confidence, feeling every bit like fashion models. Local TV stations aired the show live, bringing the celebration of Aklanon talent to an even wider audience. Competitions like these mark significant milestones and moments when young Aklanon creatives feel validated in their craft, guided by seasoned mentors, and celebrated by top-tier designers recognized internationally.

It was not just about winning grand prizes but about having an avenue to discover their voice, honor their heritage, strengthen their craftsmanship, and proudly carry forward Aklan’s weaving and design traditions.

OFFICIAL WINNERS: Accessory Designers: Grand Winner: Glazel Adam First Place: Edcel Pestano Second Place: Ederic Sastre Bag Designers: Grand Winner: Renzel Jude Melanio First Place: Jonry Franuelas Second Place: Jay-Ann Bautista Fashion Designers: Grand Winner: Jemery Reontoy First Place: Rex Ortega Jr. Second Place: Jovilley Ann Guadalupe People’s Choice Award: (Group 4) Jezethel Faith Bandiola, Aivan James Pumatong, and Jian De Jesus AFDA’s Teamwork Choice Award: (Group 5) Renzel Jude Melanio, Glazel Adam, and Jovilley Ann Guadalupe