On June 12, 2023, MEGA is celebrating 13 years of iconic Filipino fashion, artistic expression, and Pinoy pride. But how did it all come about?
In the bustling world of Philippine fashion, one event has stood the test of time, captivating the industry’s imagination and igniting sparks of creativity. The MEGA Ball, an annual extravaganza that blends fashion, culture, and innovation, has become an emblem of artistic expression and national pride. This extraordinary event continues to evolve into an unparalleled celebration that honors the boundless creativity of the Filipino people. Below, we find ourselves immersed in a captivating narrative that traces the intriguing history of the MEGA Ball.
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The birth of an iconic event
The MEGA Ball was the brainchild of founding editor Sari Yap and eventologist Tim Yap, and the vision was to create a signature event that celebrated Independence Day, showcasing Filipino culture and heritage through the lens of fashion. In addition to its homage to tradition, the MEGA Ball also embraces the ever-evolving contemporary cultural scene. It recognizes that art, fashion, and Filipino expression are in a constant state of flux, influenced by the changing dynamics of society yet always static by pride. By documenting and appreciating these cultural shifts, the MEGA Ball becomes a time capsule that sums up the zeitgeist of its era, capturing the spirit of the present moment and preserving it for future generations.
Setting the tone for subsequent events
In its nascent years, the MEGA Ball unveiled its grandeur through the Terno Ball. The event found its home within the enchanting walls of the Champagne Room in Manila Hotel, a venue steeped in history and elegance. It was here that luminaries from the world of fashion, society, and the arts gathered, embracing the unique opportunity to pay homage to the elegance and grace of the traditional Filipino attire—the terno.
MEGA celebrated Independence Day by looking into our culture and heritage, which is why the attire was consistently terno for the next few years. Every year, designers, society, creatives, and celebrities would mark June 12 on their calendars and express their nationalism by donning artfully designed ternos from Filipino designers.
The terno, with its distinctive butterfly sleeves and intricate embroidery, represented a fusion of indigenous traditions and Spanish influence, dating back to the colonial era. By adopting the terno as the central theme, the ball not only celebrated the beauty of the attire, but also acknowledged its historical significance and its role in shaping the identity of Filipino fashion.
The very first of its kind set the stage for a saga that would unfold in the years to come as the MEGA Ball that not only honored the past, but also paved the way for the future. It laid the foundation for the MEGA Ball’s commitment to showcasing the richness of Philippine culture and its impact on the world of fashion and art.
Themes that define
As the MEGA Ball journeyed through the corridors of time, each year bore witness to a new chapter, heralded by a unique and captivating theme. It has taken attendees on a sartorial journey through themes and concepts, from the Terno Ball, the MEGA Pinoy Pride Ball, the MEGA Millennial Ball, to the MEGA Equality Ball—each one showcasing the diverse creativity and cultural celebration of Filipino passion. The event became a mesmerizing canvas where Filipino creativity took center stage. The themes not only recognized successes in numerous fields, but also highlighted the nation’s varied kaleidoscope of talent.
The very first theme highlighting the terno celebrated the Philippines’ rich heritage through fashion before eventually putting a spotlight on Filipino creatives who were making a mark in their own fields and contributing to society through the Pinoy Pride Ball.
The annual event has embraced the rich diversity of Filipino culture, encapsulating the multifaceted nature of the nation’s creative landscape. Whether it was paying homage to traditional craftsmanship, showcasing contemporary art forms, or celebrating the fusion of local and global influences, each theme shone a spotlight on the unique tapestry of talent that defines the Philippines.
A nexus of creativity and talent
Within the heart of the MEGA Ball, fashion emerged as a transformative force, transcending mere garments to become a language that bridged worlds and redefined boundaries. The event became a captivating showcase for the ingenious craftsmanship of Filipino designers who wielded their talent to weave magic with their creations. Throughout the years, the MEGA Ball has featured various fashion shows, showcasing the talent and creativity of Filipino designers such as Puey Quiñones, Furne One, and Michael Cinco. The MEGA Ball elevated fashion to new heights, transforming it into an art form that transcended aesthetics and embraced a profound sense of purpose.
The celebration of Filipino talent at the MEGA Ball is a profound homage to the rich identity of the Philippines as this vibrant event goes beyond recognizing the achievements of awardees and artists. It also acknowledges the collective effort of numerous individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the event to life. It extends its recognition to all those involved, from suppliers to collaborators and performers, and even all the way to the local ingredients used in the menu.
One of the highlights of the MEGA Ball is the recognition and celebration of exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields and brought pride to the Philippines. The Pinoy Pride awardees are individuals who have achieved excellence in their chosen fields while embodying the values and spirit of being Filipino. They are role models who inspire others with their achievements and serve as ambassadors of Philippine talent and culture. Past Pinoy Pride awardees have included renowned figures such as Francis Libiran, Catriona Gray, and Pia Wurtzbach.
The Global Pinoys awardees are Filipinos who have achieved success and recognition abroad, becoming influential figures and representing the best of Filipino talent on the international stage. These individuals have excelled in various fields, including arts, music, film, fashion, and business. Their accomplishments not only bring pride to the Philippines, but also inspire and motivate others to pursue their dreams globally. Previous Global Pinoys awardees have included internationally acclaimed designers, artists, and corporations like Cary Santiago, Lesley Mobo, Lea Salonga, and Jollibee as the first-ever Global Pinoy Brand awardee.
The New PH awardees represent a new generation of game-changers and innovators who are making a significant impact in their respective fields within the Philippines. These individuals are driving change, pushing boundaries, and shaping the future of their industries. From technology disruptors to social entrepreneurs and designers, the New PH awardees showcase the dynamic and forward-thinking spirit of the country. Previous New PH awardees have included notable personalities such as Michael Cinco, Len Cabili, and Gabbie Sarenas.
The event embodies evolution, capturing the contemporary cultural scene and emphasizing the importance of documenting and appreciating its dynamic nature. It serves as a platform to showcase the diverse creativity within the country, fostering unity and collective pride.
Memorable moments and transformations
Collaborations between designers, artists, and artisans gave rise to extraordinary pieces that pushed the boundaries of what could be worn. From intricately handcrafted gowns adorned with delicate embroidery to avant-garde ensembles incorporating unconventional materials, wearable art became a testament to the limitless imagination and technical skill of Filipino designers. These creations were not merely garments, but rather expressions of individuality, identity, and social commentary.
The MEGA Ball serves as a stage where fashion’s expressive power soars, igniting conversations and amplifying messages of social change. It will continue to evolve, innovate, and remain true to its DNA, which highlights and celebrates the Filipino talent, whether they are young or old, based locally or making waves internationally.
The future of the MEGA Ball
The MEGA Ball’s trajectory continues to evolve, propelled by an unwavering commitment to celebrate Filipino talent and embrace the spirit of the times. With each passing year, the event reinvents itself, staying attuned to the dynamic landscape of fashion and society. As it expands into new territory, the MEGA Ball continues to be a source of inspiration and a monument to the eternal power of creative expression.
Photos: MEGA Archives
