Filipino Creatives Bridge Tradition and Innovation in New York Runway Showcase

New York — The Spring/Summer 2026 season of New York Fashion Week (NYFW) closed with a vibrant display of cultural heritage, innovation, and global collaboration, highlighted by the contributions of Filipino organizers and designers who continue to leave their mark on the international stage.

Filipino Powerhouses at the Helm

Two major Filipino-led groups played pivotal roles in this year’s showcase: EC Entertainment + Media and Kubo Productions.

• EC Entertainment + Media, led by Ethel Leach and Gener Zafra, has become known for seamless event production and digital marketing strategies that elevate fashion events to international standards.

• Kubo Productions, founded by Leach, Hazel Alpuerto, and Mary Catherine Yap, first gained attention co-producing Michael Cinco’s Milan show in 2022. Since then, they have staged shows in Las Vegas and Cebu, amplifying Filipino talent on a global scale.

  
  

Celebrating Heritage with SoCSKSargen

This season, NYFW featured a cultural highlight in partnership with SoCSKSargen USA Inc., spotlighting indigenous Philippine fabrics tnalak and inaol. Emerging designers Tonet Dacillo and Karl Malana presented collections under this initiative, with a portion of proceeds supporting their craft. The collaboration underscored the ongoing mission of Filipino organizers to preserve cultural heritage while nurturing fresh talent.

A Global Stage of Designers

The runway reflected true international diversity:

• Team Japan, under Shima Shyna of My Runway Project, brought bold designs that added to the global exchange of styles.

• Filipino designers Chona Bacaoco (Milan), Carl Andrada (California), Simoun Andres (Philippines), and Alexendria (debut) enriched the lineup with their unique visions.

• The finale was headlined by Angelo Estera of Dubai, closing the week with a grand showcase that merged Eastern and Western influences.

  
  

Shyna, a proud Tondo, Manila native, also launched her collection Caira at NYFW, dedicating proceeds to her Hope Foundation, which aids underprivileged communities in her hometown.

Beyond the Runway

NYFW SS26 also highlighted Filipino innovation across industries:

• Skinthetics by ABeauty MD, founded by Mary Catherine Linbrando-Yap, expanded its presence with clinics in New York and Cebu.

• Core Assist Inc. introduced its mission of providing healthcare support to low-income families.

• Eve Mobile App, led by Leach and Zafra Jr., announced an upcoming digital platform for event ticketing, broadening accessibility for fashion audiences worldwide.

  
  

Production Excellence

The SEPT NYFW production was directed by Uno Rodriguez with technical execution by Gener Zafra Jr.. Special recognition went to Arlene Obero Pagán for her unwavering support of young talents such as Joselito Cabungcal and the SoCSKSargen initiative.

A Milestone for Filipino Creativity

NYFW SS26 was not just another fashion week; it was a celebration of Filipino cultural pride, innovation, and global collaboration. From indigenous textiles to high-fashion glamour, Filipino creatives proved they belong on one of the world’s most prestigious fashion platforms.