I was surprised to see the national costume of 2018 Miss Universe Catriona Gray Catriona Gray being showcased at the Museum of Presidential Cars in Quezon City. It was displayed there as part of the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations in the Philippines.

Catriona, along with her trainor, Arch. Carlos Buendia, Jr., creatively envisioned the “LuzViMinda” national costume, skillfully combining elements from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, showcasing the rich diversity of the Philippines’ heritage.

Jearson Demavivas from Koronodal City, South Cotabato, designed the main body suit, drawing inspiration from the batik motifs of 16th-century Visayan warriors featured in the Boxer Codex (ca. 1590). He also crafted the T’boli-inspired brass belt called hilet lemimet while a knee-high boots adorned with Mindanaoan textile patterms was made by Jojo Bragais and Ardel Presentacion. Demavivas also designed the parul sampernandu (Pampanga lantern), mirroring the hues of the Philippine National Flag, and it was skillfully crafted by lantern maker Eric B. Quiwa from the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. The LED features, thanks to Rhyann Andrade, enhance its vibrancy. This vibrant creation symbolizes Luzon in Catriona’s ensemble.

Catriona’s ensemble further celebrates the diversity of Philippine cultural and natural heritage. The floret border, crafted from pukpok (brass metal), is a creation by folk artist Tomas Ramirez of Betis, Guagua, Pampanga. Inspired by Philippine Baroque churches and introduced by noted fashion designer Mak Tumang, it adds a unique touch. The Botong Francisco-style mural, portraying select vignettes from Philippine History, is a collaborative work by artists Kim Christine Fababair, Marina Ceriola, and Renee Avila. The baybayin text, extracted from the National Anthem “Lupang Hinirang,” was consulted from baybayin expert Dante Enage, completing the ensemble with historical significance. Justine Aliman curated the overall style of Catriona’s national costume, bringing together the diverse elements into a cohesive and visually stunning ensemble.