Cebu's top designer helps beautify CICC

Furniture collections of Kenneth Cobonpue, one of Cebu's top designers, are going to be showcased at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) for the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit.

Cobonpue, who was with Governor Gwendolyn Garcia during an inspection at the CICC yesterday, reportedly committed to help in the final touches of the building through his world-class furniture.

Garcia said having a touch of Cobonpue at the CICC is something the Cebuanos can be proud of. "So we will be showcasing the best of the Cebuano talent, competence and determination in that CICC."

When it asked whether it would not come with a fee, the governor simply replied, "I hope so for the love of the native land."

Cobonpue is a "Garbo sa Sugbu" awardee in 2005 for his achievements here and abroad.

The multi-awarded designer shot to fame after attracting the attention of the British Council's creative industries unit last year as the youngest member of "Movement 8," the elite furnishings and houseware design group in the Philippines formed by Citem's Eli Pinto and Budji Layug. The movement has gained clientele worldwide.

Cobonpue's most prominent client is famous Hollywood actor Brad Pitt, who purchased his furniture design called "Voyage Bed." Pitt has been Cobonpue's client for the past three years.

In addition, executives of Warner Brothers have asked Cobonpue to design a casino set for the upcoming movie "Ocean's Thirteen", which stars Brad Pitt, George Clooney and Matt Damon. The movie will be released next year.

Cobonpue's other famous design is "Lolah Chair", which won him the 2005 Design for Asia Award, the most prestigious award given in this part of the world.

Cobonpue is known for his sexy, curvaceous designs.

Meanwhile, amidst the allegation of Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña that the food and services offered for one event handled by the Lapu-Lapu City government under the spouses' program are overpriced, Garcia only said: "I'm not a spouse and I have no spouse."

"That so far has been the biggest problem and most difficult challenge presented to me for the entire summit activities - no representation in the spouses' committee," she added.

To see to it that workers will be able to beat the extended November 30 deadline for the CICC's completion, the governor started conducting onsite inspection four times a daily since last Wednesday. - Cristina C. Birondo/LPM