A FASHION runway snaked across the SM Event Centre last Sunday, as participants to the Moda Mindanaw showcased their unique creations.
One of the highlights during the week-long Kadayawan Festival, Moda Mindanaw has opened the doors of opportunities not only for Davao-based designers but to budding artists from its nearby provinces as well.
The competition among local designers has gained much following after two years of running.
"Moda" (Italian, to mean fashion) and "Mindanaw" therefore, best describes the extravaganza.
In 2009, 12 florists competed for the best floral head dress and bouquet while another 12 designers battled for the best numbers for street wear and formal wear. The said event also highlighted materials crafted by Katakus and community-based women's groups and cooperative members of Magnegosyo ta 'Day.
This year, nine talented artists vied for the best fast forward street wear: Uni Sam Apat, June Rodino Artajo, Nicky de Asis, Miku Betsuki, Harold Andy Cabrera, John Glenn Rañon, Joanna Cong, Mandy Velasco, Wilson Limon and another set of nine for the evening gown: Jhon Marilao, John Ryan Ayala, Frida Cabilles, Jhayar Magdaleno, Marco Laurencio, Jayson Glarino, Jones Joseph Buladaco, Vincent Medel and Mharo Lao.
Bagging the first place in the Streetwear category was Cabrera while Betsuki placed second. Artajo got the third place. For the Evening Wear category, Laurencio bagged the first place with Clarino and Nacua in the second and third places, respectively. First place winners went home with P10,000 while second placers got P8,000 and P5,000 for the third place.
Prior to the presentation of the entries on Moda Mindanaw night, the participants underwent "critiquing" session with personalities in the fashion industry. During this time, the designers presented their sketches and were then evaluated by professional designers. This was done to further improve their creations and ultimately, their crafts.
While Moda Mindanaw 2009 paid tribute to the Avante Garde creations of the world-class designer Garrimon Roferos, this year, gracing the catwalk were striking numbers from seasoned Davao fashion designer Don Mascariñas. Mascariñas has won various design competitions including SM's Sagala Gown Design Competition and the Urog Etnika.
Donning Mascariñas creations were Councilors Myrna Ortiz, Rachel Zozobrado, April Marie Dayap, Al Ryan Alejandre, Tomas Monteverde and print/commercial model Vince Canizares.
The SM Moda Mindanaw 2010 is also supported by Greenwich, SM Department Store, Coco Cabaña and Gibi Shoes.