The Cebu Young Designers Competition (CYDC) 2025 marked a significant revival of an esteemed platform dedicated to nurturing young Cebuano fashion designers. Led by its president, Philipp Tampus, Clothes for Life is a non-profit organization of Cebuano fashion designers, approached Cebu’s homegrown luxury jewelry brand, Oro China Jewelry, to help bring CYDC back to life.
With its long-standing commitment to supporting the local fashion industry, Oro China Jewelry eagerly came on board to co-produce the highly anticipated competition, making CYDC 2025 its fifth edition and celebrating Clothes for Life’s 20th anniversary.
CYDC was originally created to provide emerging designers with a platform to launch their careers and to ensure the sustainable growth of Cebu’s fashion community. Over the years, Oro China Jewelry has worked alongside iconic Filipino designers such as Cary Santiago, Jun Escario, Philip Rodriguez, Rajo Laurel, Randy Ortiz, Michael Leyva, and Francis Libiran, among many others. Given its dedication to the Philippines' creative scene, it was only natural for the brand to support CYDC in its mission to elevate young talents.
The competition officially kicked off in September 2024 with a grand launch at SM Seaside City. From then, a series of activities took place, starting with the registration period from September to October, followed by a panel interview in November, where 37 applicants were narrowed down to the top eight finalists:
● John Ivan Galochino
● Johara Mina Ara
● Caesy Coronel
● Cris Escobido
● King Rosales
● Sarah Tutor
● Steven Agripo
● Joshua Chiong
These aspiring designers were then paired with accomplished mentors to guide them throughout their journey:
● Pinky Magalona
● Mel Maria
● Rei Escario
● Bree Esplanada
● Hanz Coquilla
● Mike Yapching
● Valerie Alvez
● Lory Mer Villareal
The competition was designed to provide not just a showcase for talent, but a holistic learning experience. The first challenge, the Oro China Jewelry Design Challenge, encouraged contestants to design wearable and saleable jewelry that aligned with the brand’s aesthetic and target market. In December, they had a photo and video shoot with their mentors, a marketing session led by Oro China Jewelry’s Senior Marketing Manager, Jewel Jalandoni-Camomot, and a Q&A discussion with industry veterans Protacio and Cary Santiago.
In January, contestants took part in a two-day learning experience. The first day featured a Spiritual Discussion and Business 101 session led by Oro China Jewelry’s President, Harry Ty. On the second day, a Group Styling Challenge took place, with Cebu’s top stylist, Josei Cuizon, in collaboration with Miss Universe Philippines-Cebu 2024 winner, Gabbi Carballo. Contestants formed teams and styled Carballo for her photoshoot submission for Miss Universe Philippines.
Throughout the competition, contestants met twice a month with their mentors to refine their eight-piece finale collections. Regular progress meetings with event coordinator, ACG Events, led by Rod and Renee Ngilangil, ensured that each contestant remained on track for the grand finale.
CYDC is not just a design competition—it’s a comprehensive program designed to equip young designers with the tools to build their own brands. Contestants left the competition with knowledge in branding, business management, client relations, and more, making them well-prepared for the realities of the fashion industry.
The CYDC 2025 Grand Finale took place on March 22 at the Atrium of SM JMall, where guests were treated to cocktails and an enthralling fashion show competition. The grand winner was awarded over P200,000 worth of cash prizes, gift certificates, and essential sewing equipment to help jumpstart their careers. Additional cash and gift certificate prizes were given to minor challenge winners:
List of Winners:
● Oro China Jewelry Design Challenge: Joshua Chiong
● Oro China Group Styling Challenge: Johara Ara, King Rosales, Sarah Tutor, and John Ivan Galochino
● Best in Creative Direction: Caesy Coronel
● 2nd Place Winner: Caesy Coronel
● 1st Place Winner: King Rosales
● Best Mentor: Bree Esplanada
● CYDC Grand Prize Winner: Sarah Tutor
Panel of Judges:
● Cary Santiago - Chairman of the Board of Judges, Fashion Designer
● Hope Ty - Creative Director, Love and Diamonds
● Vern Enciso - Entrepreneur and Content Creator
● Jan Gonzales - Conceptual Photographer and Fujifilm Brand Ambassador
● Junjet Primor - Cebu’s Premier Fashion Show Director
The event was expertly coordinated by ACG Events, directed by Josei Cuizon, with graphics by Matt Pinkian.
CYDC 2025 was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of Cebuano talent, mentorship, and the enduring legacy of fashion in Cebu. Thanks to Oro China Jewelry and Clothes for Life, the future of Cebu’s fashion industry looks brighter than ever. (PR)