Cordillera Designers Fashion Handwoven Textiles Into Everyday Wear at The Walk

Filipino creativity took center stage at this year’s Biyaya Sustainable Living Festival. The three day expo, held from July 17 to 19 at the SM Megamall Mega Trade Hall, gathered farmers, weavers, crafters, artisans, and entrepreneurs from all over the country to showcase the best of what Pinoy culture can offer.

Originally known as the Manila Coffee Festival, the event has since expanded its horizons to include various sustainable products, including the intricate, handcrafted creations of indigenous weavers and rising designers.

Part of the festival is The Walk, its sustainable living fashion showcase, named after the intentional step one takes towards the conscious practice of sustainability.

In her opening remarks, Biyaya’s co-founder Tati Miranda-Fortuna introduced the sartorial demonstration as a celebration of Filipino heritage and tradition “by supporting weavers from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.”

This year, the spotlight was on 10 designers and brands from the Cordillera region, each exhibiting their own distinct artistry. The lineup: Tati Miranda’s BAHAY TAHI and its more colorful counterpart CheChe Bureche, Tedd Mabitazan, Eros Goze, Tish Tayaban-Acupan, Aruga Handwoven, ABIKMA, Rose Ann Banglo-Wangdali, Narda’s by Lucia Capuyan-Catanes, and Harvic Dominguez.

Together, their works championed the ingenious beauty of Filipino handwoven textiles reimagined into modern garments for everyday wear. Think collared jackets, barong-inspired tops, vibrant button downs, asymmetrical dresses, bold blazers and suits, and even woven tote bags.

Peek the fashion show and check out everything that happened during day 2 of Biyaya Sustainable Living Festival below: