Patis Tesoro, a name synonymous with Filipino fashion, continues to defy expectations well into her seventies. Her recent benefit show, “Filipiniana is Forever,” wasn’t a nostalgic look back at past glories, but a vibrant declaration of ongoing creativity. The Grand Hyatt Manila’s ballroom showcased a stunning 86-piece collection – each garment meticulously crafted and entirely new.
The evening wasn’t simply a fashion spectacle; it was an act of profound generosity. Every ticket purchased directly supported the Zonta Club of Alabang’s vital programs focused on women’s health, education, and empowerment. Furthermore, a significant portion of the collection’s sales – around 30% – flowed directly to the organization, amplifying the impact.
The show opened with a striking image: men confidently adorned in malongs, each boasting unique checkered patterns and intricate gold embroidery. This bold statement was followed by women showcasing modern interpretations of traditional Filipiniana, like pink pants paired with exquisitely embroidered baros. Tesoro’s signature artistry was immediately apparent – a masterful blend of native textiles and dazzling embellishments.
Tesoro’s designs weren’t confined to the expected traje de mestizas and ternos, though her versions were breathtaking. Imagine dresses painted with vibrant pink roses, contrasted by delicate blackwork embroidery, or a green lattice pattern woven directly into the fabric. Magnificent dragons, shimmering in green and gold, graced a stunning traje de mestiza, showcasing her boundless imagination.
Beyond the traditional, Tesoro presented unexpected pieces: coats crafted from reptilian green Chinese silk, barongs embroidered with gold, and richly adorned robe de styles. Each garment was a testament to her skill, a celebration of texture, color, and the enduring beauty of Filipino craftsmanship.
When asked about her seemingly inexhaustible energy, Tesoro responded with a playful laugh: “I’m not dead yet!” But beneath the humor lies a deep-seated purpose. Her driving force is a passionate commitment to preserving and promoting Filipino culture, ensuring it thrives for generations to come.
Tesoro’s vision extends far beyond the runway. She’s actively planning an artists’ enclave with painter Romulo Galicano, and a uniquely Filipino-style home for the elderly. A particular passion project is the creation of a dedicated piña museum – a vital resource currently missing from the cultural landscape.
This year has been remarkably productive, marked by a documentary accompanying her book, “Filipiniana is Forever,” a collaboration with rising designer Jor-el Espina, and a retrospective at the Iloilo Museum of Modern Art. Radiant and full of life, she playfully admitted, “People think I’m old and I’m going to die. Maybe that’s why they want all of these to happen.”
But Tesoro has other plans. With a mischievous glint in her eye, she declared, “But I’ll surprise them and live for another 50 years!” Her spirit is indomitable, her creativity boundless, and her dedication to Filipino culture unwavering – a true grande dame who continues to inspire and captivate.
