A borderless world

Prompted by the Manila Bulletin’s 125th anniversary celebration, one of Cebu’s top designers Cary Santiago recalls the uphill climb he needed to do in pursuit of his dreams

Life is definitely better now

Growing up, I always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. 

With my sheer talent, grit and determination, I had to make do with whatever little resources I had. I needed to make the most out of my meager resources, considering that I was from the province of Cebu where the supplies were often short back then. There was no social media and I remember buying back issues of magazines, often months or even a year late, so I could be updated with the latest in fashion. 

There was no social media and I remember buying back issues of magazines, often months or even a year late, so I could be updated with the latest in fashion.

As a fashion designer, I believe life is way better now. 

The world has become borderless and universal. Orders from abroad are easier now because they can reach out directly through voice calls or video calls. You can deal with clients, even from other parts of the globe, as if they were just in front of you, making it very convenient for both parties. Measurements can be taken right there and then. You can sketch and send updates easily. Fabrics can be delivered right at your doorstep days after you order them. 

So yes, with the latest technology and all the convenience we are currently enjoying, I can say that, indeed, life is better!