How fashion can continue to champion women—beyond National Women’s Month

What women want

BY JOHN LEGASPI

Mar 24, 2025 08:27 AM 

When I think about the different kinds of female beauty, the 2005 flick The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants often comes to mind. It centers on four friends, each unique yet beautiful in her own way. Apart from their friendship, what makes the story stand out is how an article of clothing becomes a witness to their coming-of-age moments. That piece is a pair of magical jeans that somehow fit each of them perfectly, despite their different body types.

A Scene from 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' movie (Photo from Warner Bros. Pictures)

That scene alone reflects what fashion should be for women—a tool that inspires bravery, instills confidence, and unites rather than divides. As the Philippines celebrates March as National Women’s Month, fashion brands went all out to make Filipinas everywhere feel heard, valued, and empowered. Through a series of forums, activities, and gatherings, these brands gained insights into the diverse lives Filipinas lead every day and how the pieces they produce can become dependable partners in their journeys.

As the fashion industry’s primary consumers, women deserve clothing that captures their diverse styles, unique identities, and evolving needs. Below are some key takeaways.

Women deserve support
Gone are the days when “beauty is pain” was the norm. In today’s world, creating beautiful clothes isn’t enough—they must also support women, whether at work or on a casual day. Take Uniqlo’s latest bra top, for example. Designed with molded cups and an elastic underband that centers the bust, it offers a flattering silhouette that seamlessly transitions between work and play.

Uniqlo crepe jersey bra camisole (P990)

Women deserve duality
Romantic yet edgy. Classic yet modern. Kind yet fearless. There are countless layers to being a woman, and true beauty lies in how these contrasts make each one unique. A perfect example of this is how Zara and Mango reimagine the perennial floral look—transforming it into something edgy and moody while maintaining its striking femininity.

Mango long floral-print dress (P5,995)

Zara open-back linen top (P2,395)

Women deserve clothes that empower
Clothing is more than just a means to cover the body—it should serve as everyday armor, empowering its wearer to embrace individuality and take bolder steps. Love, Bonito embodies this through its “Trailblazer” collection, featuring wardrobe essentials designed for power dressing. Meanwhile, ForMe’s “True to Me” collection celebrates individuality and self-expression through apparel crafted to uplift and inspire. In partnership with Girls Got Game Philippines, ForMe is also allocating a portion of the collection’s proceeds to support the organization’s initiatives.

Love, Bonito RuchedReady Aika lightweight classic shoulder-padded blazer (P4,609)

ForMe Fearless pullover (P1,098)

Women deserve fashion that enhances their innate beauty
Clothes should enhance beauty—and beauty, in itself, is a broad and inclusive concept. The push for inclusivity in fashion has been an ongoing movement, encouraging brands to create clothing that promotes body confidence. One of the latest to champion this cause is TikTok Shop Philippines, which has introduced a new subcategory curating a selection of quality and authentic plus-size items. The initiative also extends opportunities to female sellers and women-led businesses on the platform, such as GZL Plusize Girly, a brand dedicated to providing fashion solutions for plus-size women. 

GZL skort (price available upon request)

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Miss Universe PH 2025 candidates share the celebs they want to meet

BY CARISSA ALCANTARA

Mar 25, 2025 09:52 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Hosted at Las Casas Acuzar in Quezon City, the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 candidates responded to questions from the press about their preparations, advocacies, and more. 

The candidates of Miss Universe Philippines 2025 

The 69 official candidates representing various regions in the Philippines had the chance to showcase themselves as they competed for the prestigious crown during the two-day media event hosted by BingoPlus recently.

Hosted at Las Casas Acuzar in Quezon City, the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 candidates responded to questions from the press about their preparations, advocacies, and more.

To make the event enjoyable for the ladies, they were asked which celebrities they would like to meet. 

Jeanne Nicole Perez Lipa (Miss Universe PH Ilocos Sur): ''I've always wanted to meet Rihanna because of how great she is, and ever since she dropped her 'Anti' album, I've been waiting for her to release another album."

Valerie Claire West (Miss Universe PH Ifugao): "As a musician, I've always dreamt of meeting John Mayer and telling him what a great artist he is."

Jazzle Taga Iba (Miss Universe PH Dipolog City): "For me, it's Pia Wurtzbach because I want to know the secret of being a beauty queen and a winner is." 

Angeleyh Pasco (Miss Universe PH Davao): '" For me, I would choose Damien Chazelle. He is not very familiar with other people. He is the director of Lalaland, which is one of my favorite films, and he inspires me as a director because of his creativity. I would like to dig into his mind and learn from him."

Chella Farconer (Miss Universe PH Cebu Province): ''I've watched a lot of Netflix during the pandemic. I was like up until 7 a.m. by let me just say that I would love to meet Ian Somerhalder from Vampire Diaries he is amazing and If ever I would to him in person, I'd kiss him."

Gabriella Carbalo (Miss Universe PH Cebu City): ''I know everyone here has seen 'Wicked.' I want to meet Ariana Grande because I look up to her. Since she was a kid she dreamed of playing either Elphaba or Glinda, and she really got it, so every time I watch videos of her singing, even all the phases of her career, you could see that she manifested it and never let go of that dream. I look up to people who never gave up on something."

Jezreal De Ocampo (Miss Universe PH Cavite): '' It would be Anne Curtis. You know she is a powerful woman, and I think she can do anything. She's also a philanthropist, and I believe that I can learn a lot from her.

Bianca Ysabella Ylanan (Miss Universe PH Quirino): ''Not a celebrity but a fellow beauty queen, Dia Mate who recently won the Reina Hispanoamericana crown and I want to meet her mainly because being in this journey is tough and her being one of my inspirations is what keeps me going." 

Ahtisa Manalo (Miss Universe PH Quezon Province): ''I would like to meet Jameela Jamil because she's an activist, and she is someone who is very outspoken and I think that I kinda need that skill being able to say what's on my mind and what I feel. I hope to meet her one day."

Millien Joy Cabigas (Miss Universe PH Siargao): "I really look up to Catriona Gray, because she is the epitome of beauty, grace, and brains."

BingoPlus has been a key sponsor of the MUPH organization for the past two years. Last year, the brand supported Chelsea Manalo on her journey from the national to the global stage. Nevertheless, BingoPlus remained at the forefront of supporting the dream-making pageantry.

The ladies also demonstrated sisterhood and what female empowerment looks like. Emphasizing that although they are competing with each other, they value the bond they have created. In this manner, the queens are engaged in healthy competition, aiming for one goal: the crown.

Supporting the Miss Universe PH 2025, the candidates were also asked what makes them #SobrangFilipina as part of BingoPlus official hashtags. 

Sasha Lacuna (Miss Universe PH Tarlac): ''I guess one thing that really represents a Filipina for me is the cuisine. Personally, my favorite dish is sinigang because it has all the nutrients that keeps us energized throughout this journey that's why I believe that Filipino cuisine makes us sobrang Filipina."

Yllana Marie Aduana (Miss Universe PH Siniloan, Laguna): "I think what makes us 'Sobrang Filipina' is because we are the representation of women who are really committed, passionate, and purposeful."

Chelsea Fernandez (Miss Universe PH Sultan Kudarat): "I would say, we are not afraid of embracing changes and I could also say that Filipinas are like butterflies that even though we fly so low, we can still soar forward."

Angela Cabel (Miss Universe PH Tacloban): "I believe what makes us 'Sobrang Filipina' is having the capability of balancing responsibilities. I'm a mother and a teacher, and now a beauty queen. I can balance these responsibilities."

Ma. Katrina Llegado (Miss Universe PH Taguig): "Filipinas are powerful representations across the universe, we have business women here, we have women in science, and we have people in the entertainment industry. It just shows the power of women that anything is possible, anything that we dreamed of with the power of hard work is very achievable."

Danelle Ann Catalan (Miss Universe PH Tandag City, Surigao Del Sur): "What makes us 'Sobrang Filipina' is the bravery. Because when you get to see a Filipina they always stand out, they are never afraid of taking and facing the challenge, and through that bravery, we are also able to showcase our beauty, talent, and the rich qualities of a Filipina."

The MUPH 2025 grand coronation will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on May 2, where one winner will be crowned to represent the Philippines on the global stage in Thailand on Nov. 21.

A German Expat in the Philippines (XXV): Movie Shooting, parties and new dishes

 

 

LOOK: Mariah Carey brings 'The Celebration of Mimi' world tour to Manila

BY CARISSA ALCANTARA

Mar 24, 2025 12:21 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• InadditiontoManila,MariahwillgotoKobeandYokohama in Japan, Bangkok in Thailand, and Shanghai, China. 

Mariah Carey (Facebook) 

It's time!!!

Grammy award-winning singer Mariah Carey is returning to the Philippine stage for a one-night concert on Oct. 14 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. 

The global superstar announced via social media Monday morning (Manila time) as she shared the venues for "The Celebration of Mimi" world tour.

"We’re taking The Celebration of Mimi worldwide! I can’t wait to see you all during this special anniversary year of the Mimi album," Mariah wrote in her post.

"More dates to be announced soon!" she added. 

In addition to Manila, Mariah will go to Kobe and Yokohama in Japan, Bangkok in Thailand, and Shanghai, China. The upcoming concert is presented by Willbros Live.

Mariah last performed for her Filipino fans in 2018, during her "Mariah Carey: Live in Concert" tour. 

Mariah is known for her hits "Emotions", "One Sweet Day," "Without You," "We Belong Together," and more, making her one of the most successful female performers of all time.

She also recorded "All I Want For Christmas Is You," one of the celebrated holiday songs in history.

 

Sunshine Cruz reveals autoimmune diagnosis

BY NEIL RAMOS

Mar 24, 2025 12:37 PM 

Sunshine Cruz took to social media recently to open up about her being diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disease that causes certain muscle groups to weaken and fatigue quickly.

In Instagram, the actress shared, "It's been a real roller coaster these past months. I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called myasthenia gravis, which has made building muscle a real struggle."

Despite the diagnosis, Sunshine bravely appeared in a recently held fashion show, stunning fans in a red two-piece bikini.

She maintained, "Walking for Bench was a powerful reminder of what's possible even when things are tough."

"To all my fellow moms and Gen Xers, never give up on your dreams," she added.

Friends and family, including her daughters Angelina, Sam, and Angel Francheska, lauded Sunshine in the comments section. 

Vina Morales, Rufa Mae Quinto, and Donita Rose cheered her as well.

„Ich danke Gott jeden Morgen, wenn ich aufwache“

 Heute gibt’s 65 Luftballons für die Pop-Ikone

:„Ich danke Gott jeden Morgen, wenn ich aufwache“

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Rolf Schimpf ist gestorben

 

Am Samstagmorgen schloss Rolf Schimpf für immer seine Augen, die TV-Legende verabschiedete sich nach einem bewegten Leben friedlich im Alter von 100 Jahren.

Kurz vor seinem Tod musste der Star aus „Der Alte“ noch einmal ins Krankenhaus!

Die letzten Tage im Leben des großen Schauspielers und wann er bewusst entschied, zu sterben – alle tragischen Details lesen Sie mit BILDplus!

A German Expat in the Philippines (XXIV): Different audiences, different cultures

 

Marilou Diaz-Abaya, Laurice Guillen films to watch this Women's Month

 

Kristofer Purnell - Philstar.com

March 22, 2025 | 10:23am

LIST: Marilou Diaz-Abaya, Laurice Guillen films to watch this Women's Month

Clockwise: Stills from 'Moral,' 'Karnal,' 'Sunday Beauty Queen,' and 'Babae at Baril'

ABS-CBN Sagip Pelikula, Voyage Studios, Cignal Entertainment and Epicmedia Productions via CCP

MANILA, Philippines — The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) listed a number of must-watch movies directed by women, all of them found in its Encyclopedia of Philippine Arts (EPA).

The CCP EPA, touted as the Philippines' most authoritative and comprehensive source of arts and knowledge, includes movies that serve as catalysts for inclusivity and change for society as a whole.

This is on top of more than 5,000 articles and video excerpts from dances and musical performances straight from the the corporation's archives, both printed and digitally preserved.

These are the must-watch classic films on women, for women, by women listed by the CCP:

"Brutal" (1980)

Directed by Mairlou Diaz-Abaya (National Artist)

The first of Diaz-Abaya's trilogy of films about women with screenwriter and fellow National Artist Ricky Lee, "Brutal" was the first Filipino movie to address gender-based violence as a feminist issue within the patriarchial Philippine society.

Synopsis: Monica Real became a suspect of the murder of her own husband, Tato, and two other men. While in jail, she refuses to speak and withdraws herself from the world until Clara, a bold journalist, dives deeper into her case and discovers a grotesque truth.

"Moral" (1982)

Directed by Mairlou Diaz-Abaya (National Artist)

The second movie in Diaz-Abaya's trilogy of films about women with Lee.

Synopsis: Joey, Maritess, Slyvia, and Kathy are best friends who are exploring their lives hand in hand until the resistant demands of their own individual lives get ahead of them. As they struggle and realize the risks that they need to take, the four women go their separate ways, each indulging in their newfound individuality.

"Karnal" (1983)

Directed by Mairlou Diaz-Abaya (National Artist)

The third and final movie in Diaz-Abaya's trilogy of films about women with Lee.

Synopsis: A couple, Puring and Narcing, settle in the latter's hometown, where the former meets Gusting, Narcing’s father. Gusting immediately takes interest in Puring after finding similarity to his then dead wife, which eventually leads to family tension and tragedy.

"Salome" (1981)

Directed by Laurice Guillen

A film also written by Lee but this time for actress-filmmaker Laurice Guillen. Lee has lamanted that "Salome" may not be restored like his other films.

Synopsis: Salome, a married woman, is fatally stabbed by her persistent suitor, and three conflicting versions of the crime unfold. 

"Milagros" (1987)

Directed by Mairlou Diaz-Abaya (National Artist)

Another movie by Diaz-Abaya, but with a screenplay by Rolando S. Tinio

Synopsis: A bar dancer is hungry for her father’s love, but things take a turn after learning he died and left her and her overbearing mother in debt. She ends up as a maid of her father's creditor with his three sons.

"Madrasta" (1996)

Directed Olivia M. Lamasan

Lamasan not only directed this movie but co-wrote the screenplay with the previously mentioned Lee.

Synopsis: Mariel finds herself adapting to her new life as a wife when she married a single father with three children.

"K'na the Dreamweaver" (2014)

Directed by Ina Anita del Mundo

Del Mundo not only directed but also wrote the screenplay for this film.

Synopsis: Set in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, T'boli princess K'na inherits the power of dreamweaving from her grandmother. In the community, dreams are visions bestowed by the abaca goddess to select T'boli women to interlace the fibers into the most exquisite patterns of T'nalak, a sacred fabric.

"Sunday Beauty Queen" (2016)

Directed by Baby Ruth Villarama

This film became the first documentary to win Best Picture at the Metro Manila Film Festival.

Synopsis: A modern-day Cinderella story following the everyday life of five female migrant wokers in Hong Kong, wherein one day each week, they are granted a moment of beauty, joy, and dignity in a local pageant. 

"Babae at Baril" (2019)

Directed by Rae Red

This film by Rae Red, which she also wrote, was just her second directorial outing after "Si Chedeng at si Apple" from 2017.

Synopsis: A saleslady realizes the gravity of owning a gun when she finds one left on the street after seeing a man flee from a shooting near her house.

"A Thousand Cuts" (2020)

Directed by Ramona Diaz

The most recent of the films included in the CCP's list, directed and written by Ramona Diaz.

Synopsis: The documentary follows Rappler co-founder Maria Ressa in her experience as a journalist who becomes a target of the administration while reporting on the war on drugs, extrajudicial killings, and the elections.

Earth Hour: Uniting for a sustainable future

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Mar 22, 2025 00:25 AM

  

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Give an hour for Earth today. Turn off non-essential electric lights for one hour from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., to raise awareness on environmental issues and promote energy conservation.
Every year in late March, millions of people across the globe unite to show that they care about the future of our planet by switching off for one hour. 

Earth Hour, on March 22, is an annual event which started in 2007. It has become a global movement with millions of participants in more than 190 countries and territories. Initiated by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in 2007, Earth Hour began as a symbolic lights-off event in Sydney, Australia, to draw attention to climate change.  In 2008, just a year after it started, more than 50 million people across 35 countries took part, with iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, USA, and Rome’s Colosseum in Italy going dark in solidarity.  The movement has continued to grow, inspiring millions worldwide to take action for the planet. 

The WWF leads Earth Hour globally with the  WWF-Philippines spearheading the movement in  collaboration with various sectors to promote environmental awareness and action.
The Department of Energy (DOE), which leads government initiatives to support Earth Hour, has urged the public to adopt responsible energy and water conservation practices in line with the theme – “Switch off and secure water for all.”

Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla stressed the interdependence of energy and water; that every kilowatt-hour of electricity consumed requires water – whether for cooling processes in thermal power plants, hydropower systems, or the energy needed to pump and distribute water.  

Various organizations and businesses actively support Earth Hour. For instance, the Jollibee Group announced that over 4,300 of its stores across 16 markets will turn off their lights on March 22 at 8:30 p.m. local time, demonstrating their commitment to the cause.  Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, in collaboration with WWF, will lead Earth Hour 2025 with a series of sustainability-focused events, one of them the Bike Parade, a community ride in partnership with Firefly Brigade and Greenpeace PH.  

SM Supermalls and Robinsons Malls will also be switching off lights for Earth Hour and will hold various events on Sustainability.

Moreover, local government units are organizing activities to engage communities. For example, the City Government of San Fernando, La Union, is hosting an Earth Hour 2025 Poster Making Contest, encouraging residents to showcase their love for the environment through art. 

In many schools across the country, activities and programs are held to strengthen awareness on environmental issues, and nurture a love for nature.

Switching off the lights on Earth Hour has expanded to other actions to protect the planet. In 2023, the “Biggest Hour for Earth” movement asked everyone to switch off and give an hour for the planet to the “Hour Bank.” In just the first year of the campaign, WWF reached more than 410,000 hours pledged in the “Hour Bank.” In 2024, supporters from more than 180 countries collectively contributed over 1.4 million hours through the “Hour Bank,” which collects initiatives from individuals who do something positive for the planet for 60 minutes.  

Supporting Earth Hour goes beyond the symbolic act of turning off lights; it represents a commitment to sustainable living and environmental stewardship. By participating, individuals and organizations demonstrate their dedication to reducing energy consumption, mitigating climate change, and preserving natural resources for future generations.
Collective actions, even as simple as switching off lights for an hour, can lead to significant positive environmental impacts when adopted globally.

By turning off our lights for one hour tonight, we not only conserve energy but also signal our commitment to a sustainable future.