Raising Hope: Artists and
Designers Driving Change through
Creative Brilliance

M1ss Jade So, Nominated by James Carl Calizo

Because of her courage, So has inspired others, including James Carl Calizo, who nominated her. Calizo writes, “Being the goddess herself, she may not have won the crown of Drag Race Philippines season 2, but she still proved to the world that she was something else, that there is something special within her. For that, she is an inspiration to the community. She is not afraid to experiment and explore things.”

ARCHIVES by jamescarl

Ken Batino: The Ultimate Upcycle Fashion Master

Ever wonder how Yllana Marie Aduana, Miss Philippines Earth 2023 got these stunning wardrobes in their pre-pageant activities while still showing the true epitome of being an Earth Eco-Warrior?Behind all of that is the mastermind, Ken Batino, a Filipino fashion designer-stylist, and a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Nursing that saw a potential in making pieces in fashion.In 2016, He started his own line, MY FREN, together with his co-designer, Jervin Salaysay. Their recent major accomplishment is being the first fashion designer to ever receive a back-to-back Best in Evening Gown Award in the history of Binibining Pilipinas: The Pageant for two consecutive years in 2021 and 2022.Here are 6 times Ken showed that he is the ultimate upcycle fashion master during Yllana’s Miss Philippines Earth Journey:

Sterling 25: Celebrating Libiran's 25 Years in Fashion

The avant-garde Phoenix Collection of Francis Libiran was showcased last night, November 24, 2023 at the City of Dreams Manila in commemoration of his 25 years in the industry. It was indeed a celebration of his career and the Philippine Fashion.The gold-to-ashy-red silhouettes mimic the journey of him rising like a phoenix in the industry, as described by Libiran himself. From his humble beginnings, Libiran proved himself multiple times to the Philippine fashion scene.Back in 2019, Francis Libiran designed the official Barong Tagalog Uniform “Araw” for the Filipino athletes during the Southeast Asian Games. To now, Libiran has showcased versatility and craftsmanship over the years.At the said show, Libiran muses were also in attendance, specifically Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa, Miss Universe 2010 4th Runner-up Venus Raj, and Miss World 2014 Megan Young. TV presenters like Gretchen Fullido and KaladKaren were also present last night.