The Best of Filipino Artistry, Textile and Fashion Showcased in Paul Cabral Fashion Show at Historic Philippine Ambassador’s Residence
(L-F) Ambassador Mylene J. Garcia-Albano, Madame Yuko Hayashi, Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, Mr. Paul Cabral, DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, and Madame Yoshiko Ishiba at the “Filipino Elegance: Paul Cabral Fashion Show” held on 19 May 2025 at the Ambassador’s residence.
TOKYO, 19 May 2025 – In celebration of National Heritage Month, the gardens of the Philippine Ambassador’s historic residence in Kudan transformed into a stunning runway for Filipino Elegance: Paul Cabral Fashion Show.
“It is both my great honor and pleasure to welcome you to official residence for this special event which I am truly proud of, as it showcases not only remarkable great talent and artistry of one of the Philippines’ premier designers – Mr. Paul Cabral, but also highlights the cultural diplomacy we continue to promote in Japan, where fashion serves as a meaningful platform for connection, understanding, and pride,” said Ambassador Mylene J. Garcia-Albano during her welcome remarks.
The event was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of the Philippines, in partnership with the Philippine Embassy in Japan. DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque highlighted the significance of fashion and the broader creative industries as key drivers of sustainable economic growth and innovation in the Philippines.
Mr. Cabral’s 30-piece collection, specially curated for the occasion, paid tribute to the rich heritage of Filipino fashion. The collection featured meticulously hand-embroidered garments reimagined through contemporary tailoring, with a special focus on piña fabric—a traditional Philippine textile handwoven from pineapple fibers, renowned for its elegance and cultural value.
Guests and the members of the diplomatic corps observed and admired each Paul Cabral piece.
Over 100 distinguished guests attended the event, including Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado; Madame Yoshiko Ishiba, spouse of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba; Madame Yuko Hayashi, spouse of Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi; and members of the diplomatic corps.
The show was brought to life by an acclaimed production team led by Mr. Robby Carmona, one of the Philippines’ most sought-after creative directors, and internationally renowned makeup artist Mr. Patrick Rosas. The presentation also paid homage to the Official Residence itself—an architectural gem and the first property outside the Philippines to be designated a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
Filipino Elegance: Paul Cabral Fashion Show is one of DTI’s major events abroad for 2025 and was held under the auspices of the agency’s Malikhaing Pinoy Program or Creative Philippines Program.
