The La Consolacion College Bacolod Auditorium buzzed with creativity and anticipation on the evening of May 2, 2025, as the School of Architecture, Fine Arts, and Interior Design (SARFAID) proudly presented the BFA Fashion Design Thesis Gala Night 2025. The event showcased the innovative and meticulously crafted collections of four graduating Bachelor of Fine Arts major in Fashion Design students, marking a significant milestone in their artistic journeys.
The program was gracefully hosted by Ms. Jinky Cantancio, who set a vibrant and celebratory tone for the evening. The event commenced with a solemn opening prayer led by Ms. Reen Mañalac, followed by a heartfelt rendition of the Philippine National Anthem.
Ar. Vincent Raymund Y. Alovera, PhD-TM, the esteemed Dean of the SARFAID, delivered his welcome remarks, expressing his immense pride in the students and the program. He highlighted LCCB’s unique position as the only institution in Negros Occidental offering a full Bachelor of Fine Arts program, emphasizing the Fashion Design program’s role in nurturing “visual storytellers and creative changemakers.”
Ar. Alovera eloquently quoted Coco Chanel, stating, “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening,” 1 underscoring the program’s philosophy of treating fashion design not merely as a trend but as an art form that reflects culture and meaning. He proudly acknowledged the four graduating students as TESDA NC II holders and active participants in the Negros Fashion Fest, emphasizing their real-world exposure and evolving artistry.
He also lauded Mr. John Catubigan, a Bacolod-based fashion designer known for his Modern Classic collections and a faculty member of the fine arts program, for his invaluable mentorship. Ar. Alovera recognized Mr. Catubigan’s role in inspiring and elevating the students’ work through his guidance, artistry, and commitment. He concluded by thanking the mentors, supporters, and attendees for believing in creative education and celebrating the future of Filipino fashion.
Dr. Penny V. Sanchez, LPT, the Associate Dean of the Academic Affairs office, echoed these sentiments in her inspirational message. She celebrated the courage and perseverance of the student designers, acknowledging the “hurdles overcome, the late nights spent sewing, sketching, and perfecting each detail.” Dr. Sanchez emphasized that the fashion show was not just a display of skill but a “beacon of hope” and a symbol of the vibrant artistic energy within the institution and the community. She urged everyone to support these emerging talents as they shape the future of Philippine artistry.
Following this, Ms. Larissa D. Pacheco, MFA, MBA, the Program Head of the Bachelor of Fine Arts, provided a comprehensive rationale for the Thesis Exhibition. She explained that the gala night serves as a crucial public presentation of the students’ visual output, allowing them to gather feedback, assess the acceptability of their work, and contribute to the development of arts and culture. Ms. Pacheco highlighted that presenting their work beyond the studio offers the student-artists critical distance and opportunities for growth.
Mr. John R. Catubigan then took the stage to introduce each of the graduating fashion design students. The audience eagerly awaited the unveiling of their thesis collections, which were described as designs for specific end-users, crafted from carefully chosen materials and inspired by a diverse range of sources, including Philippine indigenous flora, mythological creatures, cultural heritage, local festivals, and landscapes. The collections also reflected influences from the country’s geography, economic resources, and the everyday lives of the working class.
The rationale further elaborated on the students’ comprehensive design process, which involved creative, strategic, and technical skills such as pattern making, sewing, embroidery, and embellishments. It also highlighted their consideration of various issues within the fashion industry, including mass market production, fast fashion, reliance on imported materials, thrift shopping, and the need for quality improvement in the local textile industry.
The highly anticipated presentation of collections then commenced, showcasing the unique visions and talents of Rochelle Anne Almoete, Kate Billones, April Joy Demafiles, and Joemar Lacson Jr. Each collection undoubtedly reflected months of dedication, research, and artistic exploration.
The program concluded with an upstage photo opportunity, capturing the joyous moment with the graduating designers, faculty members from SARFAID, proud parents, supportive guests, and fellow students.
Finally, Mr. John R. Catubigan returned to the stage to deliver his acknowledgment and closing remarks. He expressed his sincere gratitude to everyone present for their support and extended heartfelt congratulations to the thesis proponents. He concluded with optimistic hopes for the future triumphs of LCCB’s Bachelor of Fine Arts major in Fashion Design program and the broader Philippine Fashion Industry, leaving the audience with a sense of pride and anticipation for the next generation of Filipino designers.
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