A Tribute to Don Ramon Valera

On October 13, 2005 Cebuanos will honor the life and work of Don Ramon Valera, an icon of Philippine fashion at the Arctic Ballroom of the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.

A true Filipino designer, the name Valera, even after his untimely demise three decades ago, still evokes unforgettable memories of an era of patrician refinement, where high fashion was the driving force of a cultural renaisance.

Valera's creations almost always focused on Filipino tradition making use of local colorful weaves and fabrics that has left an indelible mark in the archives of Filipino heritage.

During the National Heritage month celebration in May this year, a coffee table book entitled "Valera - Cada Traje Es Una Obra Maestra"was launched at the Museum of the Filipino People in Manila with Lulu Valera Zulueta, head of the Valera clan, in attendance.

The overwhelming success of the Retrospective, convinced Ms. Nedy Tantoco of the need to preserve the work and memory of Don Ramon Valera for future generations. She likewise wanted the book to be both educational and a social record of what is regarded as a golden era in Filipino haute couture.

The three hundred page collectors item book is divided into five parts: Part one recounts the life of Valera, Dean of Filipino Designers; Part two showcases his fabulous ternos; Part three features his elegant Evening Gowns beyond compare; Part four highlights Wedding Gowns that dreams are made of, and Part Five outlines his sketches.

The laudable project was financially and organizationally supported by the Tantoco-Rustia Foundation which was put up by the family of Rustan's and dedicated to Rustan's founders Ambassador Bienvenido Rufino Tantoco and his wife the late Gliceria Dimaano Rustia.

The Foundation received the nod to publish the book after consultations with members of the Valera family. Ms. Tantoco, in her capacity as president, formed a committee to plan and prepare the book. Danny Dolor and Criselda Lontok curated the gowns, Ben Farrales organized the 30 designers who were more than willing to participate in the tribute with Noli Hans and Bambi Harpers-founding member of the Filipino Heritage Festival Inc., Cora Alvina-Director of the National Museum acted as adviser and Abe Florendo was requested to edit the book.

Ms. Tantoco also asked the help of co-chairperson and Philippine Tatler Publisher Irene Martel Francisco to sponsor the book in memory of her beloved mother Luz Puyat Martel, who was a close friend and favorite client of Don Ramon Valera. After the book launch, a fashion show will unfold. Cebuano designers such as Philip Rodriguez, Arcy Gayatin, Oj Hofer, Protacio Empaces, Jude Elardo and Marichu Tan will interpret the Valera touch in their own creation.

Co-sponsors for the once in a lifetime project in Cebu are the Watefront Cebu City Hotel and Casino, the glossy magazine Zee , the national carrier Philippine Airlines and Ralph's Wines and Spirits.

Don Ramon Valera is nominated for next year's National Artist Award in the field of fashion design.