Francis Libiran highlights Filipino textiles in ASEAN Summit designs for Marcos, First Lady Liza

Francis Libiran is the designer tapped to work on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ attire for the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Cebu.

Libiran unveiled sketches of several formalwear designs that highlight Filipino craftsmanship and indigenous textiles.

For the President, Libiran presented three barong designs.

One sketch featured a barong crafted from intricate callado fabric, with embroidery on the front panel, collar, and cuffs. Libiran described the piece as blending “traditional Filipino craftsmanship with a sophisticated modern silhouette.”

Another design was made from piña fabric with refined vertical woven patterns, incorporating traditional Filipino textile details for what the designer called a “timeless and understated elegance.”

The third barong, also crafted from piña fabric, showcased classic embroidered patterns while maintaining a refined and traditional look.

Meanwhile, Libiran also revealed three Filipiniana gown concepts exclusively designed for the First Lady.

One gown was made from authentic Yakan fabric handwoven by artisans from Basilan.

According to Libiran, the piece highlights the rich cultural heritage of the southern Philippines, with the textile known for its bold geometric patterns inspired by nature and indigenous traditions.

Another Filipiniana concept featured callado fabric with hand-embroidered architectural patterns on the bodice and butterfly sleeves, evoking classic Filipino craftsmanship.

The designer also shared a gown concept in a rich orchid hue, adorned with cascading hand embroidery along the neckline. Its statement butterfly sleeves were crafted from authentic Yakan woven fabric from Basilan.

The Philippines is hosting the ASEAN summit for the fifth time, with leaders from 11 member nations convening in Lapu-Lapu City for the summit and related meetings. —Carby Rose Basina/CDC, GMA News