𝗜𝗟𝗢𝗜𝗟𝗢 𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗬 – The joy was indescribable for alumnus and part-time teacher of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), Peter Gagula, after he was crowned the grand prize winner at the prestigious TernoCon 2025.
Known in the fashion world as ‘Peach Garde,’ Gagula hails from Tapaz, Capiz. In an interview with Bombo Radyo, Garde shared that he first joined a seminar workshop in 2017, and by 2018, TernoCon, a nationwide competition showcasing the traditional Filipino “terno” designed by various local fashion designers, began.
Garde recounted his attempts to join TernoCon in 2020 and 2023 but was not accepted. However, in 2024, the competition opened again, and he was thrilled to finally be accepted.
The grand celebration took place during the culminating cultural show on January 26, 2025, where Garde clinched the coveted Pacita Longos Award, marking his triumph over 12 other finalists. Despite coming from a province, Garde proved that he could stand out and excel in the competition.
His winning collection featured three distinct pieces that highlighted 20th-century Philippine visual arts: a formal terno with pañuelo, a formal Balintawak with alampay and tapis, and a formal Kimona featuring butterfly sleeves with alampay and patadyong.
Garde dedicated his victory to his late mother, partner, mentors, and the students at ISAT U, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support.
This remarkable achievement is a testament to Garde’s dedication and passion for preserving and promoting Filipino heritage through fashion.
