Introduction

“My prom collection is not just a mere style statement. It is a pathway to social consciousness, an awareness thing. It is not only teaching the youth how to dress up but also believing in conservation, in going back to the basics and to the environment.” The exact words of Ms. Dita Sandico Ong, the fairy godmother of Tulay sa Pag-Unlad ng Baras Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Inc. (TUPA ng Baras MPCI).

Dita Sandico Ong, one of the Philippines’ top fashion designers, is known for her remarkable transformation of the ordinary natural and traditional abaca fabric into awesome international fashion designs. Her 2003 collection paraded in Copenhagen, Denmark, not only highlighted the occasion, but more important, it impressed the Danes and other international guests. Her collection of exquisitely woven and designed abaca gowns showcased the versatility of the Filipino fabric and the craftsmanship of the women weavers of TUPA ng Baras Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Inc.

What has gone right? What made the show a success?

For sure it is the abaca material.  But definitely it is not only the quality and the color.  Most important, it is handwoven -- made out of love, perseverance, determination; it is out of passion and a result of a vision to make Baras known not as a calamity-prone area but as an emerging industrial capital of Catanduanes.