Front & Female Awards 2025: 3 female mavericks innovating the worlds of fashion, food and finance in the Philippines

With over three decades in the fashion industry, Anna brings expertise in design, manufacturing and strategic planning to three prominent fashion brands: Bayo, Unica Hija and Viseversa. 

In 2017, marking the 25th anniversary, she realigned the company’s vision and focused the roadmap on becoming a sustainable entity. Pioneering local mainstream fashion brands, they transitioned from a linear to a circular business model, gaining momentum when they became a participant-member of the UN Global Compact in 2020.

Since then, her company has been committed to adhering to the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact, shaping the progress of sustainability initiatives. The collective approach through the Journey to Zero initiatives recently highlighted the company’s role as a gender-responsive marketplace. Bayo Manila Inc received the 2021 Champion award for both the Nationals and the Asia-Pacific Regional awards in this category. Altogether, Lagon’s extensive leadership experience in strategic management of manufacturing, trading and retail enables her to provide deliberate business directions while fostering overall growth.

What is the greatest challenge you have overcome? 

The greatest challenge we face is the constant sense of standing alone. Championing sustainability and community development in an industry too often marked by profit-driven decisions and a lack of empathy. Yet we remain steadfast in proving that meaningful, lasting change is possible when fashion becomes a force for both environmental responsibility and human empowerment.

I believe we all have the responsibility to create meaningful change, to not just stand by as negativity unfolds around us. It’s easy to blame others, even institutions, but the real challenge is recognising the ways we can still make a positive impact. 

What advice would you share with the next generation of women and girls? 

Start with knowing and staying true to your purpose. This will help ground you when the path gets bumpy. While at it, ensure that you live a life with integrity, be reminded that success is measured not just by what you achieve but how you achieve it. Progress is built one step at a time. Have the courage and be patient. Empowering others magnifies your light–there’s room for everyone to shine.

Miko Calo is a highly regarded Filipino chef known for her technical expertise, creative use of Filipino ingredients and leadership in Manila’s culinary scene. Originally from Butuan City in Agusan del Norte, Calo’s early exposure to home cooking and the flavours of Mindanao deeply influenced her culinary style. She trained in classic French cuisine, including a significant seven-year tenure under the legendary chef Joël Robuchon, working in Paris, London and Singapore.

Calo first gained widespread recognition as the executive chef and co-owner of Metronome, a celebrated restaurant in Manila known for its sophisticated menus and French-inspired fare. Her leadership at Metronome was marked by her meticulous attention to technique, flavour and produce, earning her a reputation as a chef who dives deep into her craft. After five years, she resigned from Metronome in April 2024 to pursue new creative ventures.

Following her departure, Calo launched several projects, including Taquería Franco and a pop-up residency at Makati Shangri-La, where she presented a Franco-Filipino menu that reflects her personal and professional journey. She is also the culinary creative director of the AVEC restaurant group and has been recognised for her advocacy for women in the culinary industry, often leading all-women teams in her projects.

What impact do you want to make in the next five years? 

I would like to be able to represent the modern Filipina woman by being bold, proud and gracious.

What is your greatest strength? 

My femininity is my greatest strength: it enables me to listen to my gut and honour my ambition. It might be difficult at times because of societal expectations, but it's essential to move forward and always claim the space that we women deserve.

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