Cover Kandama’s CEO and creative director Victor Baguilat Jr proudly stands with the women weavers of Ifugao, who work with him in integrating heritage weaves into contemporary fashion to reach the local and international market (Photo: Kandama Collective)
Kandama’s CEO and creative director Victor Baguilat Jr proudly stands with the women weavers of Ifugao, who work with him in integrating heritage weaves into contemporary fashion to reach the local and international market (Photo: Kandama Collective)
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Kandama, an Indigenous fashion brand grounded in social impact, invites everyone to its benefit fashion show on July 27 in support of the construction of the Julongan Weaving Center in Kiangan, Ifugao
Fashion, culture and social impact will be woven together at Kandama Collective’s highly anticipated benefit fashion show on July 27 at the Manila Hotel as the acclaimed Indigenous fashion and social enterprise brand sets its eyes on finally building its weaving centre in Kiangan, Ifugao.
Having its former site formally closed down with the land properly returned to its rightful owner, Kandama seeks to purchase its own property in the area where a permanent hub, which will be called Julongan Weaving Center, will provide a conducive space for the Indigenous women weavers to preserve traditional Ifugao weaving techniques for generations to come.
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Above TOYM awardee Victor Baguilat Jr
TOYM awardee Victor Baguilat Jr
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The benefit fashion show, titled “Weave It to Life”, will feature Kandama’s newest collection, “Executive Outlaws”, which merges urban tailoring with ancestral textile traditions. It promises a vibrant evening of runway presentations, cultural storytelling, and community solidarity.
“Our goal is not only to showcase the beauty of Indigenous craftsmanship but to build a future where Indigenous women have access to safe, sustainable livelihoods,” says TOYM awardee Victor Baguilat Jr, who founded Kandama with the objective of championing cultural sustainability. “The weaving centre is more than a structure—it’s a home for cultural resilience and economic dignity.”
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Some of the pieces by Kandama, presented during the press preview of “Weave It to Life” at Centro de Turismo Intramuros
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In partnership with JCI Manila and the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) Andrew L Tan Center for Tourism, Kandama’s latest endeavour is inviting leaders in fashion, philanthropy, government, and media who can support its altruistic mission.
“The weaving centre will serve as a livelihood space, training ground, and heritage site, ensuring that the artistry of handloom weaving continues to thrive in its rightful birthplace,” Baguilat continues.
Prior to the benefit fashion show, AIM Center for Tourism is hosting a pre-event mixer on July 4.
Kandama Collective’s “Executive Outlaws” collection, to be presented at the “Weave It to Life” benefit fashion show
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To reach an even higher goal, Kandama’s pieces previously worn by the P-pop sensation SB19 will be up for a silent auction on the day of the benefit fashion show.
Kandama’s mission is rooted in empowering Indigenous women, preserving the centuries-old tradition of handloom weaving, and protecting the natural environment that sustains the rice terraces—particularly in Julongan village, Kiangan, Ifugao. As a social enterprise, Kandama applies commercial strategies to ensure long-term impact. It co-creates artisanal garments with the weavers, merging traditional handwoven textiles with bold, contemporary designs that resonate with global audiences.
To connect Indigenous artistry with the world, Kandama actively participates in international trade fairs and showcases its collections on runways in New York, Paris, Melbourne, Cannes, Seoul, Hong Kong, and beyond.
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About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
