From the boardroom to the catwalk
MANILA, Philippines - Franchisors as fashion models? Why not, if it’s for a cause. Trading the boardroom for the catwalk are franchising’s leading personalities who will channel their inner fashionista in support of the prodigious women piña cloth weavers of Aklan.
“Franchise Power Fashion Show” celebrates the centuries-old artistry and craftsmanship of Kalibo weavers and the timeless designs of couturier Michelle Varela-Lim. It occasions the donning by officials and members of the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) of barong Tagalog distinctly made from beautifully hand-woven pineapple fiber cloth.
Franchise 2010 Expo visitors will be treated to this 45-minute collaboration between the PFA and retail boutique Okasyon on July 16 at SMX Convention Center. Today’s undisputed top franchise show in Southeast Asia, the three-day Franchise 2010 Expo will run from July 16 to 18 and will feature franchise opportunities at all investment levels, from micro to large, both local and international.
Those who have accepted the invite to don Lim’s intricate creations are franchisors and top executives which include Bing Sibal-Limjoco (Francorp Philippines); Robert F. Trota (Max’s Restaurant); Yvette Pardo-Orbeta (Wendy’s Philippines); Pinky Yee (Goldilocks Bakeshop); Froilan Manotok (Red Ribbon Bakeshop); Dr. Alan Escalona (Fruit Magic); Francis Glenn Yu (Seaoil Philippines); Kat Luna and Gabby Cui (PLDT PLDT SME Nation); Jay Lagdameo (PLDT Business Solutions); Karen Christia Gaviola and Patricia Ysabel Bucad (K2 Drug); Les Reyes (Reyes Haircutters); Siu Ping Par (PR Gaz Haus), Chris Simnick (Institute of Certified Franchise Executives — USA) and Damien Watteau (U-franchise — Europe).
Apart from drawing attention to the proud weaving tradition of Kalibo women, the show spotlights the town’s piña weaving industry, which could further boost the country’s export trade with full public-private sector support. PFA vice chairman Bing Sibal-Limjoco says, “Promoting the Filipino entrepreneurial spirit as well as our first-rate services and products such as the piña cloth has been part of our advocacy. This special undertaking is our way of helping this prized fiber gain more prominence and appreciation from our sector and the public.”
The use of indigenous Philippine fabrics, piña cloth in particular, is matched by Lim’s classic design and elegant cut. Lim says, “This event with the PFA is part of Okasyon’s efforts to help Kalibo’s weaving industry penetrate all the major fashion markets in the world. It’s my foremost wish to make the piña cloth become a fabric of choice by both high fashion and ready-to-wear designers.”
Okasyon, which features ready-to-wear semi-formal and formal wear for all occasions, is at Greenhills Shopping Center, Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Place, Manila, Festival Supermall in Alabang, SM North EDSA, SM Southmall, SM Fairview and SM Sta. Rosa.
