A grand celebration of Pinoy culture and couture this Christmas

MANILA, Philippines — It was a festive, star-studded evening in celebration of Filipino heritage and fashion at the very first Paskong TernoCon 2023 at SM Aura.

A joint project of SM Supermalls, Bench/Lifestyle + Clothing, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the inaugural Paskong TernoCon marked a milestone in Philippine fashion with visionary designers Joey Samson and Lesley Mobo taking center stage in TernoCon’s first fashion show in a mall.

Set against the backdrop of SM Aura’s exquisite Filipiniana-themed Christmas centerpiece, the runway showcased the impeccable technique and artistry of Samson and Mobo, as well as the range and versatility of the Philippine terno.

Samson’s collection showcased masterful minimalism and tailored, architectural forms, while Mobo’s was a celebration of draping, unabated maximalism, color and folk aesthetics.

But more than a fashion spectacle, Paskong TernoCon served as a platform for inclusivity, making the best of Philippine design more accessible to a wider audience.

“The event epitomizes SM Supermalls’ commitment to championing Filipino culture and artistry, and provides a platform to bring this closer to more people through our malls,” SM Supermalls president Steven Tan said.

“The exquisite designs by Lesley Mobo and Joey Samson beautifully represent our rich cultural traditions and Filipino creativity, and SM is honored to have been part of this trailblazing project.”

Paskong TernoCon’s glittering front rows comprised some of the biggest names from Philippine fashion, film, culture, business and society—who all came out to support and celebrate Pinoy culture and fashion.

Also gracing the occasion were First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, SM Investments vice chairperson Tessie Sy-Coson, Bench founder Ben Chan, CCP vice chairperson Margie Moran-Floirendo. 

Likewise, the runway featured actors Janine Gutierrez and David Licauco, Miss Universe Philippines 2013 Ara Arida, model-photographer Jo Ann Bitagcol, and Michelle Dee in her first public appearance after the Miss Universe pageant.

Paskong TernoCon 2023 is a celebration of the Filipino spirit, artistry and creativity that define