A Cultural Fashion Exhibit in Honor of the 128th Philippine Independence Anniversary

The Manila Hotel once again opens it Grand Lobby to a celebration of heritage, artistry, and national pride with Draped in Valor, Fashioned in Freedom: 2026 Philippine Independence Showcase, presented in partnership with Designers Circle Philippines.

In celebration of the 128th Philippine Independence Anniversary, this year’s exhibit is anchored on the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan.” The showcase brings together a striking collection of Filipiniana gowns and locally woven textiles that reflect the country’s rich cultural identity and evolving creative spirit.

Guests stepping into the Grand Lobby are welcomed into a visual journey through iconic Filipino silhouettes and contemporary design, from the elegance of the terno, to the graceful Maria Clara and the intricately crafted indigenous weaves from across the archipelago. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to embody the colors of the Philippine flag: red for patriotism and courage, blue for justice, peace, and truth, white for equality and fraternity, and yellow for the sun and stars, symbolizing democracy, freedom, and unity.

 

 

 

 

  

Set against the historic backdrop of The Manila Hotel, the exhibit transforms the Grand Lobby into a gallery of Filipino pride, where fashion becomes both expression and tribute. Admission is free, inviting guests to experience this celebration of culture and creativity.

“This exhibit is our way of honoring Filipino artistry while giving it a space where it can be seen, appreciated, and celebrated. The Grand Lobby has always been a witness to our nation’s history, and through this showcase, we continue to tell stories of national pride, identity, and freedom," says Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

Draped in Valor, Fashioned in Freedom runs until July 10, 2026, at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel.

For more information, call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

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The Manila Hotel Blooms with “Flores de Primavera Y Filipiniana” Exhibit

In celebration of National Heritage Month and Flores de Mayo, The Manila Hotel, in partnership with Designers Circle Philippines, unveils “Flores de Primavera Y Filipiniana,” a captivating fashion exhibit at the Grand Dame of the Philippines.

Inspired by the idyllic beauty of the Filipiniana, the exhibit highlights the vibrant intersection of culture and creativity. The collection presents an exquisite blend of Terno and Maria Clara designs, influenced by the radiant hues and festive spirit of Flores de Mayo, rightly regarded as the “Queen of Philippine Festivals.”

Selected members of Designers Circle Philippines have transformed the storied Grand Lobby and Art Gallery into what the organization describes as an “effervescent Eden of floral Filipiniana,” where heritage fashion takes center stage amid the grandeur of the historic hotel.

The participating designers are Edwin Uy, Rafael Gonzalez, Alfonso Emmanuel, Jasper Adorador, Precious Jewel, Rhael Garcia, Alistair Balane, Gus Villa, Adonis Ara Samson, Ganda Anore, Bepz Torres, Joy Aaliwin, Gian Abrigo, Maila Alog, Jayme Yap Bravo, Medel Batingal, Will Salvador, Brad Shilver Agarano, Pencil Diestra, and Jennica Castro, with special pieces from the late founding chairman Johnny Abad.

Edwin Uy, Chairman of Designers Circle Philippines

Alistair Balane

Johnny Abad, Founding Chairman of Designers Circle Philippines

Pencil Diestra and Bepz Torres

Brad Shilver Agarano

Jasper Adorador

Joy Aaliwin

Madel Batingal

Rafael Gonzales, President of Designers Circle Philippines

“Flores de Primavera y Filipiniana is more than a fashion exhibit. Showcases like this serve as a bridge between our country’s past and present. We are committed to ensuring that Filipino traditions are not only honored today but preserved for generations to come,” said Edwin Uy, chairman of Designers Circle Philippines.

“Through initiatives such as this, we are pleased to partner with Designers Circle Philippines as The Manila Hotel continues to champion Filipino culture and craftsmanship by providing a platform where tradition and contemporary creativity flourish together,” says Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel’s vice president for sales and marketing.

Flores de Primavera y Filipiniana is on display at the Grand Lobby and Art Gallery of The Manila Hotel until June 11, 2026. Admission is free.

For more information, call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

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