𝗠.𝗔. 𝗪𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗡 𝗗𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡𝗦 𝗠𝗔𝗞𝗘𝗦 𝗛𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 𝗔𝗧 𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗪𝗕𝗘𝗥𝗥𝗬 𝗙𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗔𝗟 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

Photos: MOMENTO

La Trinidad, Benguet — A milestone moment unfolded on March 13, 2026, as M.A. Woven Designs joined fellow creatives in what is recognized as the very first fashion show held during the Strawberry Festival, staged at the La Trinidad Trading Post Open Grounds.

Organized by Mr. Argie Tilap, the event brought together a collective of designers and creatives who transformed the festival into a platform for fashion, culture, and community pride. Alongside M.A. Woven Designs, featured designers included Ayra Longsiab and Andrew Visaya Jr., with contributions from stylist Dane Lacanaria and accessories designer Sahrens Albuera—each adding depth and diversity to the showcase.

In tribute to La Trinidad’s identity as the Strawberry Capital of the Philippines, M.A. Woven Designs presented a special collection inspired by the richness of its land and agricultural heritage. Strawberry-toned hues of red, blush pink, and earthy green reflected the season of harvest and abundance.

At the heart of the collection is the Ibaloy eten pattern, highlighted through tapestry materials that elevated each piece into a cultural narrative. Reinterpreted into contemporary silhouettes, the designs bridged Indigenous identity with modern expression—honoring tradition while moving it forward.

More than a runway presentation, the show marked a cultural shift—where fashion became part of the Strawberry Festival’s evolving story. It opened new space for local designers to celebrate not only creativity, but also the communities and industries that shape their work.

Grounded in advocacy, the collection paid homage to the farmers, the land, and the enduring spirit of Benguet. As each piece graced the runway, it carried stories of origin, labor, and pride—threads woven into both garment and identity.