The passion of nationalist fashionistas

MANILA, Philippines - Nationalism is fashionable,” stated women’s rights activist and senatorial candidate Liza Maza, actress Angel Locsin and triathlete Sandra Araullo when they modeled for MazaLine, a collection of “statement gowns” that was launched in a photo-shoot by Xander Angeles dubbed as “Passion of a Nationalist Fashionista” at the Edge of Light Studios in Quezon City.

Modern Filipinas Liza, Angel and Sandra donned gowns symbolizing patriotism designed by Dennis Cabalinan. 

They believe that fashion can be used to effectively send a message. Liza explained, “Fashion is an important tool of advocacy, most especially in the pursuit of change in our fellow Filipinos, most especially the women’s lives.”

Liza Maza: The Modern Gabriela

Liza Maza is considered the face of women’s rights and empowerment in the Philippines. Her name symbolizes the modern Filipinas’ struggle against discrimination and inequality. She is the epitome of a modern Filipina: intelligent, confident and strong-willed.

Aside from her bold assertions of women’s rights, Liza Maza is known for her “fashionable statements,” whether in the streets or in the halls of Congress. At the height of allegations of corruption against former President Joseph Estrada, Liza called for his resignation by mounting the much-acclaimed “Women’s Passion Show.”

When former United States President George W. Bush addressed the Philippine Congress in 2003, she donned a Filipiniana ensemble with a hand-painted panuelo to express her opposition to US military intervention and war on terror.

During President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s last State of the Nation address in July 2009, she stole the red carpet with her katsa gown bearing a hand-painted image of the President and other proponents of Constituent Assembly, to show her opposition to what she believed was an unconstitutional way of amending the Philippine Charter.

Even after more than 30 fearless years of fighting for the interest of the masses, most especially of the Filipino women, Liza Maza remains unwavering in her dedication to serve the people. In fact, she is taking the fight to a whole new level by running in the Senate.

Angel Locsin: Advocate For Rural Women Empowerment

Angel Locsin may be one of the brightest stars to ever shine in Philippine television and cinema, but when asked which among her accomplishments she was most proud of, she proudly shares it was the opportunity to influence people on issues that affect their daily lives, such as issues on poverty and concerns on the environment.

Angel’s performances are widely applauded for the depth and intensity she exhibits in them. Her realistic portrayals, however, are not only the result of rigid workshops, but are drawn from her deep and broad understanding of the realities of life which she herself once upon a time bore witness to.

Her strong affinity for the causes of women, most especially those living in poor rural areas, and her advocacy for the protection of the environment are among the many reasons Angel participated in several of the organization’s activities and campaigns and even endorsed Gabriela in the past elections.

Sandra Araullo: Women’s Rights Advocate

Sandra Araullo excels in three sports — namely swimming, cycling and running — and has won several international awards such as a silver medal in the 2008 Southeast Asian Games.

The young triathlete most especially sympathizes with the women-survivors of domestic violence and has a soft spot for children.

“Women have the right to engage in activities where they feel empowered. They should not be subjected to abuse and violence,” Sandra said.