Meet the Next Generation of Filipino Designers at FIP's 2026 Grad Show

On October 10, the Fashion Institute of the Philippines (FIP) held its annual graduation showcase at Bigger Pictures studio in Mandaluyong City. The event brought together graduating students from the institution’s five campuses nationwide, located in Ortigas, Makati, Subic, Cebu, and Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

Now in its 23rd year, FIP remains committed to founder Shanon Pamaong’s mission of making fashion education more accessible while nurturing the next generation of Filipino designers. This year, 17 graduates presented four-piece collections, each interpreting an assigned theme through their own creative lens. Together, their work offered a glimpse into the future of Philippine fashion—one shaped by emerging talents with distinct perspectives informed by their personal experiences.

Ahead, we take a closer look at the collections and the highlights of the evening.

The showcase unfolded across five chapters, each centered on a theme assigned to the graduating designers. Through their individual sartorial approaches, they interpreted these concepts in collections informed by their personal experiences and creative perspectives.

Craftsmanship and artistry took center stage throughout the presentation. Larger-than-life silhouettes made a statement, innovative fabric manipulation introduced intriguing textures, and intricate construction pushed the boundaries of wearable art. Each designer brought a distinct creative vision to the runway, offering audiences a glimpse into the ideas and perspectives shaping their emerging labels' identities.

Browse the image galleries ahead for a closer look at each designer’s collection.

Abstract/Representation

Form/Function

Natural/Artificial

Reality/Fantasy

Past/Future

Following the student showcase, finalists of the Shanon Pamaong Menswear Challenge presented their designs on the runway. The competition brings together student designers from FIP’s various campuses, giving them an opportunity to showcase their menswear creations.

This year, Georjé, helmed by George Pudadera, emerged as the winner of the challenge.

Each year, FIP concludes its graduation showcase with an awards ceremony that recognizes the coveted Designer of the Year, along with recipients of special awards.

Among the special awardees, RD Ilagan received Best in Fabric Manipulation, while Vinz Madrid earned Best in Construction.

From an initial pool of 17 designers, the competition was narrowed down to 10 finalists before the top three were announced. Following the judges’ deliberations, Vinz Madrid was named second runner-up, while Ryan Bello secured first runner-up.

RD Ilagan took home the coveted Designer of the Year award, marking the third consecutive year that a menswear designer has received the distinction. He follows Chuck Mores, who won in 2025, and Teng Surisantos, who won in 2024.

This year’s judging panel brought together professionals from across the fashion industry, including designers Daryl Maat and Bryan Peralta, celebrity stylist Myrrh Lao To, FIP president Renee Salud, photographer Borgy Angeles, Preview associate creative director Jana Jodloman, and Preview managing editor Reg Rodriguez.

Ahead of the graduation showcase, the judges met on September 30 for a pre-judging session, where they evaluated each collection’s concept and execution and gave feedback to the designers.