FREEDOM is not doing as we please, but having the opportunity to do what is right. As Bob Marley once quoted Marcus Garvey, we have to emancipate ourselves from mental slavery because none but ourselves can free our minds. Liberation is indeed the deliverance from imprisonment, slavery and oppression. We must celebrate our freedom in many facets of our lives, especially in the expression of our collective & respective personalities. In doing so, we must fight to overcome the bondage, hindrances and the repressive apprehensions we may have for us to attain such remarkable feat.
On July 21, 2019, the Blackout Models Bacolod made a mark with Denim Independence fashion event at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central. In line with the Blackout Models’ 10th Anniversary, two hundred thirty (230) models strut away on the runway, donning their respective denim creations to express their individuality and creativity.
This hearty expression of exuberance was pumped up with the beats of Blackout’s very own alumni, DJ Michelle Murphy. This sultry vixen performed live on stage in a VH1-style segment. Furthermore, this ostentatious event was also graced by Ms. Cindy Valencia, a Fashion Week Prima Modelo. She went striding on the runway for inspiration and support to her young protegés.
A surprise AV presentation of a “video greetings” collage was flashed on the LED screen backdrop. These greetings were from Blackout Models’ celebrity friends like the sensational rock band IV OF SPADES; DJ/Supermodel Mia Ayesa of ThoseDamnNerds; Ms. Earth International Stephanie Stefanowitz; Manhunt International June Macasaet; actors Mark Herras, Bella Padilla, Prince Steffan, Yna Asistio & Rochelle Pangilinan; R&B singers Kris Lawrence & Jay R; & Bacolod’s own rap superstar AERO.(aero-with-a-dot)! The said video also included heartfelt messages from actresses/beauty queens Chanel Morales & Vickie Rushton. These two celebrities have always been a huge part of the Blackout Models’ history.
Another series of video greetings was shown on the big screen. This time it’s a heartfelt collection of video messages from Blackout Models Alumni such as Jolly Jiao, Miguel Lim, Ino Zijlema, Keith Gloriani, Elvy Castro, John Patrimonio & Elijah Chavez, Kenneth & Kevin delCruz and Ms. Camille Ambrocio.
In line with the theme, freedom of expression, a photo exhibit was also mounted at the event site to exhibit passion and emotions.
This highly memorable event was staged in cooperation with Ayala Malls Capitol Central, Psalms Audio, Silverrock Construction, Red House Shabu Shabu, Alavarez Bayad Center, NDC Marketing, Red Ming Facebooth Bacolod, EVENTO Weddings + Events, Golden Table Restaurant and Catering Services, Metro Ayala, IDesigns Printing Solution, Motorpro, RJ Cube Ads, 91.9 Love Radio Bacolod, and 105.5 EasyRock Bacolod.
Denim Independence will be reprised in Dumaguete, Iloilo & Antique. These individual reruns will feature local models of these respective places. To culminate celebration of Blackout’s first decade, a BLACKOUT BALL will be in order this December.