Twenty global Pinoys were honored at the “Mega Pinoy Pride Ball” held last June 12, the 114th anniversary of Philippine Independence, at Makati Shangri-La Hotel. The glitzy affair was a fitting tribute to Filipinos who not only make us proud but bring honor to the country with their outstanding achievements: Manny Pacquiao, Lea Salonga, Kenneth Cobonpue, Rico Hizon, Manny Pangilinan, Ben Chan, Brillante Mendoza, Chit Juan, Leslie Mobo, Pepe Diokno, Mike Carandang, Nikki Luna, Olivia D’Aboville, Lori Baltazar, Bryanboy, Robbie Antonio, Reese Ruiz and Toni Leviste.
The highlight of the event was the dramatic collection created especially for Mega by Dubai-based international Filipino designer and co-awardee Furne One. It was an evening that heralded the best of the Filipino, proving we can achieve whatever we dream.
I particularly enjoyed watching the female guests clad in their Filipiniana numbers — the embellished butterfly sleeves and open neckline reveal the neck and shoulder structure; one of the most flattering part of a woman’s body no matter what her body size is. The graceful and elegant ternos and Maria Claras give us so much pride.