On Independence Day, celebrating culture has never been more delectable with the 14th MEGA Ball’s degustation of Filipino fashion and food
When it comes to celebrating Filipino culture, there’s nothing quite like mixing the flavors of tradition with the spice of innovation. As the MEGA Ball marks its 14th year on June 12, 2024, the theme of “Fashion + Food” brings a fresh and tantalizing twist to Independence Day festivities. Led by Editor-in-Chief Peewee Reyes-Isidro and co-chair Ana Lorenzana de Ocampo, CEO of Wildflour Hospitality Group, this year’s event captures the evolution of Filipino culture by way of culinary artistry.
RELATED: A Journey Through the Evolution of the MEGA Ball
Taste of Tradition
The MEGA Ball has grown as a dynamic platform that mirrors the shifting landscapes of Filipino identity. The event serves as a active time capsule, preserving the zeitgeist of contemporary Filipino life through its diverse and ingenious expressions.
Every Independence Day, MEGA celebrates the best and most beautiful of Filipino culture by recognizing both local and global individuals who have made a mark in the country’s fashion, the arts, and culture.
Epicurean Elegance
From food that nourishes the body to sartorial pieces that reflect a deeper and forward fashion perspective, we feature the stories of nine Pinoy Pride awardees who have displayed brilliance in the food and beverage industry in the Philippines.
For this year’s celebration, a culinary journey becomes the main course of Filipino cultural celebrations. It is curated by a stellar lineup of chefs, including Walter Manzke, Margie Lorenzana Manzke, Chele Gonzalez, Margarita Forés, Miko Calo, Joris Rycken, Josh Boutwood, Stephen Duhesme, and barman Lee Watson. These honorees will present their own course, each dish and drink is a peek at their unique culinary personalities and their fresh takes on Filipino cuisine and libation.
Food, Fashion, and Future
“This year’s theme is all about Food and Fashion,” explains Reyes-Isidro. “At first glance, they don’t seem connected, but they are both cultural manifestations of a people’s creativity and lifestyle. They are disciplines that both require inspiration, creativity, craftsmanship, collaboration, and passion.” Just as a chef draws inspiration from a pantry full of spices, fruits, and vegetables, designers look to the rich palette of culinary ingredients to craft their collections.
The MEGA Ball continues to marinate in the essence of Filipino talent, translated from runway to kitchen. As we savor the moments of this grand feast, the Independence Day event preserves the flavors of today for future generations to relish. It’s a celebration that blends flavors and fashions, fostering unity and stirring up collective pride. And what unifies Filipinos if not food?
Photos: MEGA ARCHIVES; MARGARITA FORÉS, CHELE GONZALEZ, and MIKO CALO (via Instagram)
Featured Image: Photographed by EXCEL PANLAQUE of KLIQ INC. Food Art by ANDRE MANGUBAT. Post-Editing by GRANT BABIA. Jewelry by TIFFANY & CO., Special thanks to NIKKI MARTEL
