The iconic façade of the Cebu Provincial Capitol became a fitting backdrop for a Furne One Amato fashion show, as Cebu welcomes over 500 foreign delegates of the first United Nations (UN) Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific.
The event, a collaboration between the Capitol and the Department of Tourism (DOT), trains the spotlight on the collection of Amato, the Dubai-based Cebuano fashion designer who is the force behind the fashion empire Amato Couture.
It was one of the highlight events on the sidelines of Cebu’s hosting of the 36th UN Tourism Joint Commission Meeting for East Asia and the Pacific and Commission for South Asia.
The fashion show marked Amato’s foray in designing exclusively with Filipino fabrics, using materials endemic to the Philippines such as piña, piña jusi, pearls, hablon, abaca, and local beads.
Some of her models included Miss Universe Philippines 2019 Gazini Ganados, Miss Universe Cebu 2024 Kris Tiffany Janson, Miss Universe Taguig 2024 Christi Mcgarry, Miss Fitness Supermodel World 2024 Kirsten Dawn Delerio, Miss Cebu 2022 Gabbi Carballo, Miss International Queen 2016 Stacy Biano, Queen Universe 2011 Bee Urgello, and Mr. Pilipinas Global 2023 John Tanting.
His collection showcased a visual and sartorial journey through the Philippines, showcasing the archipelago’s beauty from dawn till dusk.
The fashion show opened with a depiction of the serene beauty of a Visayas morning, with models gracing the runway in garments crafted from renowned indigenous fabrics such as hablon sa Argao, crochet, and macrame.
Inspired by the mornings by the beach and the serene resorts that the Visayan region is famous for, the designs incorporated a heartwarming pastel palette. Jackets made from hablon and delicate crochet dresses evoked the tranquil beauty of the regional sunrise, reflecting the gentle waves of the sea.
His Golden Hour Collection captivated the audience with the wonders of Luzon. The designs showcased shades of beige, earth tones, and natural colors, mirroring the romantic sunset. Fabrics of piña and piña jusi adorned with intricate Luzon embroidery and pearls paid homage to the rich traditions of Luzon, highlighting the warmth and beauty of the setting sun.
The grand finale brought the audience to the vibrant and enigmatic evening of Mindanao. Amato presented the signature colors of the T’boli, the indigenous people of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. The runway was adorned in black and red, showcasing the intricate and modern designs made from T’boli fabrics, accented with crystals and brass. This final segment celebrated the craftsmanship and mystique of Mindanao.
Gov. Gwen Garcia and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco gave Amato bouquets of flowers at the end of the show. They were joined by United Nations Tourism Organization (UNTO) Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco.
Earlier in the day, the Capitol organized technical tours for UNTO delegates: one group went on an island tour in Camotes, another went to Dalaguete and Argao for culinary and historical tour, and the last group went to experience Bojo River Cruise in Aloguinsan.
Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ahong Chan and Cebu City Acting Mayor Raymond Garcia also graced the evening, alongside various Cebu mayors and local and national legislators.