5 Things You Should Know About Ternocon 2025

Step into the world of Ternocon 2025, where Filipino heritage and high fashion collide in a dazzling celebration of art, culture, and innovation

Words Mika Reyes
Photos courtesy of Ternocon
Janaury 23, 2025

If there’s one event that can make Filipinos—and fashion enthusiasts everywhere—stop mid-scroll, it’s Ternocon. This year, the beloved celebration of the Filipino Terno is back, bringing a seamless blend of artistry, heritage, and innovation to the runway. As we prepare to witness this iconic showcase on January 26, 2025, at the Philippine International Convention Center, here are five things you absolutely need to know—because nothing screams “Gram-worthy” like being ahead of the cultural curve.

The Legacy Lives On (With a Modern Twist)

Ternocon is a love letter to the Filipino Terno. This year’s competition reimagines traditional designs, like the classic Balintawak and its elegant alampay and tapis, while also giving the understated yet versatile Kimona its much-deserved moment in the spotlight. Expect to see a marriage of tradition and modernity as designers bring new life to these iconic pieces. Think embroidered fabrics, dramatic silhouettes, and a celebration of Filipino culture in every stitch.

The Who’s Who of Philippine Fashion

Twelve finalists, each a rising star or an established talent in their own right, are set to showcase their creations. Names like Bryan Peralta, Windell Madis, and Peach Garde are just the beginning. Under the mentorship of industry legends like Inno Sotto and Rhett Eala, these designers have poured their hearts (and possibly countless sleepless nights) into creating collections inspired by Filipino visual artists. Each capsule tells a story that’s as much about art as it is about clothing.

High Art Meets High Fashion

The 2025 theme bridges the worlds of fashion and fine art. National Artists like Jose Joya, BenCab, and Hernando R. Ocampo serve as muses for this year’s collections, with their iconic works inspiring the vibrant colors, bold shapes, and intricate details seen on the runway. Whether it’s the geometric abstraction of Nena Saguil or the countryside charm of Fernando Amorsolo, expect each piece to be a walking masterpiece.

The Coveted Pacita Longos Award

Ah, the drama of competition! Ternocon’s highlight is the awarding of the prestigious Pacita Longos Award. This honor not only recognizes impeccable craftsmanship but also celebrates a designer’s ability to elevate the Terno into something transcendent. Let’s just say the stakes are high, and the competition is fierce. Who will claim the crown? Fashion tea will be spilled.

It’s Not Just a Show

Since its inception in 2018, Ternocon has grown into an advocacy to preserve, promote, and popularize the Terno as a living cultural icon. Thanks to the partnership between the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and Bench, Ternocon is ensuring that this timeless garment isn’t just a museum relic but a vibrant, evolving part of Filipino identity.

So, mark your calendars and prepare to be dazzled. Whether you’re there for the fashion, the art, or the sheer grandeur of it all, Ternocon 2025 promises to be nothing short of spectacular. As they say, the Terno is history, culture, and pride—tailored to perfection.