John Randolph Manucom

Michael Leyva Expo 2025 Osaka Filipiniana Looks

Article (news)

<p>Filipino design is truly world class. <strong>Michael Leyva</strong> debuted a dazzling all-white collection of modern <em>Filipiniana</em> and ‘<em>ternos</em>’ at <strong>Expo 2025 Osaka</strong>, placing Filipino fashion center stage at one of the world’s most prestigious cultural gatherings. Titled<strong> </strong>“<strong>Perlas ng Silanganan,</strong>” the collection reimagines traditional silhouettes like the <em>terno</em> and <em>barong</em> with refined, contemporary flair—delivering both visual impact and a heartfelt narrative.</p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17506892930546.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner">Michael Leyva poses in front of the Philippine Pavilion at the Expo 2025 Osaka with his new collection &quot;Perlas ng Silangan&quot;</span></span></span></div><p>“For us, this collection is our love letter to Filipino heritage,” Michael said. “To be part of something this big and meaningful is truly an honor. We felt a deep sense of pride and responsibility to represent the Philippines on a global stage.”</p><p>Set entirely in white, the looks emphasized purity, quiet strength, and the intricate artistry of Filipino craftsmanship. Every ensemble was created using native fabrics and techniques—from piña and inabel to callado embroidery—highlighting the designer’s reverence for local artisanship. “We wanted the collection to be proudly Filipino,” Michael explained. “The idea was to honor our roots while embracing modernity.”</p><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17506893448928.png" style="width:1000px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/></div><p>One standout ensemble featured a cropped, oversized barong paired with a hand-beaded inabel skirt, a look that perfectly captured the designer’s goal of blending cultural tradition with present-day sophistication. “It’s a great mix of heritage and contemporary design which we enjoyed creating,” he said.</p><p>The presentation was made even more significant by its setting: the <strong>Philippine Pavilion</strong> at <strong>Expo 2025</strong>, a structure inspired by the act of weaving—a metaphor for the Filipino identity. Aptly named “<strong>WOVEN</strong>,” the pavilion was constructed using 212 handwoven panels and over 1,000 rattan rods, all created by regional communities across the Philippines. Designed to showcase not just architecture but culture and innovation, the pavilion offered a symbolic and immersive stage for the collection’s debut.</p><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17506893640357.png" style="width:1000px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/></div><p>“The <strong>First Lady Liza Marcos</strong> has long been a supporter of our local weaving communities and Filipino textiles,” Michael shared. “Her passion inspired us to go beyond aesthetics and highlight innovation in traditional craftsmanship.” The event also marked a milestone for Philippine fashion diplomacy, as <strong>President Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos Jr</strong>. attended the show—the very first fashion show graced by a sitting Philippine president.</p><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1750689524994IMG_8116.JPEG" style="width:1000px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/></div><p>In many ways, the synergy between the WOVEN Pavilion and Michael&#x27;s designs was seamless. Both celebrated the richness of Filipino culture, the enduring beauty of handmade craft, and the strength found in preserving tradition while looking forward. </p><div><br/></div><div><em>Photos courtesy of Michael Leyva</em></div>

Meet “Perlas ng Silanganan”: Michael Leyva’s Glorious Ode to the Modern Filipina at the Expo 2025 Osaka

Meet “Perlas ng Silanganan”: Michael Leyva’s Glorious Take on the Modern 'Filipiniana' at the Expo 2025 Osaka

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Meet “Perlas ng Silanganan”: Michael Leyva’s Glorious Take on the Modern 'Filipiniana' at the Expo 2025 Osaka

Randz Manucom

Published June 24, 2025 08:00 AM PHT

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Updated June 24, 2025 01:37 PM PHT

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Michael Levya

Perlas ng Silangan

Philippine Pavilion

Expo 2025 Osaka

World Expo 2025

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