MANILA, Philippines — Bench has the biggest stable of local stars as endorsers. But the screen idols did not strut on the runways at the first Bench Fashion Week; they just admired the clothes on display perched on the front rows at The Playground of the Bench Tower at Bonifacio Global City.
The three-day fashion parade was not without high-wattage presence, however. The beautiful Binibining Pilipinas girls served glamor with full force at the nine-show spectacle. Leading the pack was Miss Universe Philippines 2016, and Miss Universe top 6, Maxine Medina, who opened the first show, Kashieca, on the first day.
At Kashieca’s show, Maxine was joined by Miss Universe Philippines 2013, and Miss Universe 2013 third runner-up, Ariella Arida, together with brand ambassador Kelsey Merritt.
Marie Ann Umali, Bb. Pilipinas-World 2009, Alaiza Malinao, top 15 at Bb. Pilipinas 2015, and Ana Fernandina Buquid, Bb Pilipinas 2013 candidate, also sashayed for the brand fronted by Bea Alonzo and Liza Soberano.
Bb. Pilipinas Supranational, and top 20 at the world finals, Joanna Eden, walked for Vero Moda, as did Gwendoline Ruais, Miss World 2011 First Princess (and Bb. Pilipinas 2010 top 10).
Maxine once again opened for young designer Sassa Jimenez to close the first day of Bench Fashion Week.
Yvethe Santiago, Miss Supranational 2014 top 20, hawked for Human on the second day.
Miss Grand International 2016 first runner-up Nicole Cordoves soared high for American Eagle Outfitters on the third day.
Yvethe, Ariella, Ana Fernandina and Maxine sauntered like spicy Latinas in the Havana-themed Bench finale show.
Maxine was cheered on from the front row by fellow Philippine Models Association of the Philippines member, and Bb. Pilipinas Maja 1992 Marina Benipayo, as well as her proud aunt, Bb. Pilipinas Universe 1990 Gem Padilla.
Photos by Bruce Casanova