I attended the closing ceremony of Indonesia Fashion Week 2025 upon the invitation of the PH Embassy. Koko Gonzales, a Filipino fashion designer, took center stage. He proudly showcased modern Filipiniana during the Closing Ceremony where he was the only foreign designer along with Indonesia’s well-respected designers. The event was held at the Jakarta Convention Center drawing a diverse crowd. It included members of the diplomatic corps, fashion industry leaders, and fashion enthusiasts. There were also members of the Filipino community who came out to support one of our own.
Gonzales’ collection celebrated Philippine heritage through contemporary design. His showcase included Filipiniana in ready-to-wear items and a few bridal pieces. The participation was made possible through the strong support of the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC).
“It’s a representation of our heritage, Philippine culture, and of course, our highlight is the terno – different shapes of the terno,” Gonzales says of his collection. He was grateful for the support given to him by the Philippine Embassy and the PTIC.
Indonesia Fashion Week is one of Southeast Asia’s premier fashion events, and this year’s edition marked the comeback of a Filipino designer. The last one I attended was in 2023 featuring Mac Taug. He showcased his pieces using Inaul from Maguindanao and Langkit of the Maranao people.
Indonesia Fashion Week 2025 also had a trade exhibition where a Filipino brand “Anmari & Co.” was able to participate. Bobby Lim brought his handcrafted bags and accessories to the trade exhibit where it was well-received by the attendees.
The 2 Filipino talents at last weekend’s Indonesia Fashion Week brought pride, connection, and inspiration to the Filipinos who attended IFW2025.
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