TernoCon 2025 - Part 2
MENTORS
The
27 July 2025
Besides being the mentor to Ternocon winners Peach Garde and Windell Madis, and finalists Koko Gonzales, Jema Gamer and Noel Marin, Eala also showcased a Filipiniana collection. He shares his thoughts and creative process:
“I have not actually thought of a name for my pieces, but it's an ode to Lao Lianben. We used a lot of silks and tulle and piña from Aklan.
“There were really no challenges in procuring the materials because I have been collecting the fabrics in my travels.
“I think I was assigned Lao Lianben because the Ternocon organizers knew that I knew about his work and I know him personally. In fact, before I started on the collection, I ran into him in the mall. It was serendipity.
RHETT EALA
Photos: Courtesy of Bench Ad & Promo
“I've always wanted to do this project. It's a commitment to nurture these young talents. It was very fulfilling. It's like passing on your knowledge to the next generation of designers but we had to push them beyond their comfort zone.
“We gave suggestions but ultimately it was them who made the decision. We also as mentors had to push ourselves to produce something beautiful and significant in bringing Philippine fashion forward.
“I am very proud of my mentees. I’m like a proud parent. This was one of the most challenging Ternocons because there were parameters and the inspirations of their chosen artists. They really pushed the themes to produce beautiful collections.”
The Dubai-based, world-class couturier was the mentor to finalists Lester Bandana, Jared Servano, Geom Hernandez and Irene Subang. He called his collection “AiSia.”
“The materials I used were crepe georgette, chiffon crepe, and piña and capiz in nude tones; copper silk taffetas and beadwork and copper metals accessories inspired by the artist’s sculptures of sarimanok oppir and fishes since I was assigned to National Artist Abdulmari Asia Imao, a Tausog, the first Moro to receive the recognition.
“I had difficulty interpreting the artist in the garments because of the Muslim background to create a terno, balintawak and kimona that will not look like a Spanish mestiza but more towards the softness of a Filipina Muslim.
EZRA SANTOS
Photos: Courtesy of Bench Ad & Promo
“Even Imao’s paintings are so colorful but when I saw his sculptures and drawing sent by his family, that's where I got my inspiration to create accessories and sculptural pieces for the show.
“I couldn’t say no to participating in Ternocon. It's a privilege to share my experience to my mentees. It was a wonderful experience and, honestly, I gained more knowledge about our national dress.
“My mentees are all wonderful. For me, they are all winners because by being part of Ternocon, they gained knowledge, experience and great exposure. I'm so proud of them. They did their very best and the outcome is just fantastic!”
The Knit Queen who has transitioned to doing contemporary Filipiniana was the mentor to Bryan Peralta, who won the second place; Ram Silva, who won the third place; Patrick Lazol and Nina Gatan.
For her collection called “Breeze over Canvas,” Tan Gan, who used mostly piña, silk and abaca, shares her design process:
“Waiting for piña fabrics to be hand-woven is like embarking on a pilgrimage—it requires patience. While the making of any garment or a collection requires dedication, and a deep appreciation for the journey as much as the final creation.
“I chose Ang Kiukok because I am very attracted to his works that convey deep emotional resonance, making them both visually striking and thought-provoking. His use of sharp lines, strong colors, and geometric abstraction gives his art a raw, almost primal energy. I aspire to own one of his artworks.
“I believe in the Filipino talent. I will participate not only to share my knowledge but also to take the opportunity to learn from the next generation of designers. It’s important to understand their thoughts, aspirations, and creative vision.
LULU TAN GAN
Photos: Courtesy of Bench Ad & Promo
“As mentors, our role is to guide them through the design process with a clear framework; Drawing inspiration from an artist to shape their creative vision, designing a Terno, Balintawak, or Kimona with accuracy, ensuring all essential traditional components—are correctly incorporated and upholding artisanal craftsmanship, emphasizing skill, tradition, and thoughtful execution.
“Therefore, being accepted into Ternocon is a significant opportunity. It offers not just a platform, but also the chance to be guided, to refine our skills by practicing the process of designing with a strong creative inspiration. This experience can elevate their career (and sustaining mine) as designers, shaping their approach and artistic identity for the long term.
“My mentees are all incredibly talented, each possessing a distinct sense of aesthetics from the outset. They are adaptable, spontaneous, and open to exploration in their creative approach.”