Ibaloy Designer Maila Alog opens Nature & Fashion with Compassion

November 12, 2023

Fashion met advocacy in a deeply meaningful opening as Nature & Fashion with Compassion unfolded on November 12, 2023, at Dusit Thani Manila. More than a showcase of design, the evening was conceived as a Dinner-for-a-Cause, uniting creativity and compassion in support of women and children who are victims of abuse and human trafficking.

The event was a collaborative initiative of Caritas Manila and the Makati Garden Club, with proceeds and support formally intended for the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) of the Philippine National Police (PNP)—strengthening protection, intervention, and survivor-care programs.

An Opening Defined by Purpose

The Opening Runway Show was led by Igorot designer Maila Alog, whose work consistently centers culture, ethics, and social responsibility. Serving as Associate Designer, Genia Peleo helped shape a collection that balanced elegance with intention—ensuring every silhouette aligned with the cause it represented.

Beauty with Intention

Completing the presentation were HMUAs Stella Jezebelle Velasco and Janice Magbanua, whose styling emphasized natural strength and quiet grace. The runway flow was guided with precision and sensitivity by Runway Director Jessie Jeng Panelo, ensuring a cohesive opening that honored both artistry and advocacy.

The Faces of the Opening Runway

Carrying the collection with dignity and purpose were:

• Jaymor Chanao

• Mercedes Moguil

• Xyza Nicole

• Cedryck Elan Ulep

• Basel Akram

• Ivee Taruc

• Carla Stephanie Tilap

• Nicole Antonette Bendaen Tilap

• Kurt Russ

• John Ephraim

Each step symbolized solidarity—standing with survivors and amplifying the call to protect the most vulnerable.

Fashion as Advocacy in Action

As a Dinner-for-a-Cause, Nature & Fashion with Compassion transformed the runway into a platform for social action. By directing support to the PNP Women and Children Protection Desk, the event underscored the power of collaboration among creatives, civic groups, and institutions to confront abuse, exploitation, and trafficking.

Set within the refined halls of Dusit Thani Manila, the opening runway affirmed a simple truth: when fashion is guided by compassion, it becomes a force for protection, healing, and hope.