Reaping the rewards of the seeds we planted

Filipino designer to the stars, Oliver Tolentino, raises his glass to Manila Bulletin’s 125th anniversary and to the Filipinos who have proudly raised the Philippine flag on the international stage.

Technology has been a major force in improving my life as a fashion designer. I would not have been able to expand to the U.S. from the Philippines without it. Thanks to relatively recent advances in free internet phone and video calls, I can operate boutiques in both countries. I now have boutique operations in Makati, Beverly Hills, and San Francisco, all made possible by modern technology, which the Philippines embraced early on.

The Philippine fashion industry has also improved overall because some of us designers have gone abroad, proudly planting the Philippine flag and opening doors for others to follow. Personally, I take pride in introducing our Filipino fabrics to new audiences at fashion shows around the world, including in L.A., New York, San Francisco, Palm Springs, Vienna, Hong Kong, Barbados, the Bahamas, Geneva, and more. I have also had the honor of dressing nearly 100 Hollywood celebrities, some of whom have even worn our native fabrics to red carpet-events. This exposure has helped pave the way for more Filipino designers to dress international celebrities.

I take pride in introducing our Filipino fabrics to new audiences at fashion shows around the world.

In Manila, a booming economy over the past twenty years has created a demand for fashionable clothing as people attend more events. I hope Filipinos will continue to support local designers rather than being drawn to fast fashion.

Beyond my career, my personal life in the Philippines has also improved due to thriving tourism, which has given Filipinos greater access to beautiful destinations with world-class accommodations, dining, and infrastructure. The country is more welcoming to foreigners, and I feel proud whenever I meet Americans who tell me they love the Philippines or want to visit.

In my home province of Bataan, new resorts and restaurants have made my visits much more enjoyable. In the past, there were few amenities, but now the province boasts malls, as well as numerous dining and grocery options. Across the country, life is undeniably better for everyone today.

(Photo) Oliver Tolentino (Image by Hydee Pichai)