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Paul Cabral brings Filipino heritage to Japan

Published Jun 04, 2025 5:00 am

Designer Paul Cabral, one of today’s leading lights in the Philippine couture industry, showcased his barongs and ternos in Japan last May 18 with Her Imperial Highness, Princess Takamodo as guest of honor.

The fashion show was held at The Kudan, the official embassy residence in Tokyo which is the only Philippine National Historic Landmark outside the country.

Classic barongs and Filipiniana attires are reimagined by Paul Cabral in modern versions at the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo. 

“Through fashion, we tell a story of heritage, hope and heart. We are showing that the Filipino identity is timeless, relevant and worthy of the global stage,” said Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque.

The event was presented under the leadership of Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia- Albano assisted by DTI-Tokyo led by Dita Angara-Mathay. It fostered a deeper friendship with Japan, a country that understands the value of craftsmamship and cultural preservation. Among the guests were Ishiba Yoshiko, spouse of the Prime Minister, and Yuko Hayashi, spouse of the Chief of Cabinet Secretary.

Ambassador Mylene Albano, Yuko Hayashi (spouse of Chief Cabinet Secretary), Princess Takamado, Paul Cabral, DTI Sec. Cristina Roque, Ishiba Yoshiko (spouse of the Prime Minister)

Ambassador Mylene Albano, Yuko Hayashi (spouse of Chief Cabinet Secretary), Princess Takamado, Paul Cabral, DTI Sec. Cristina Roque, Ishiba Yoshiko (spouse of the Prime Minister)

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The 30-piece collection by Cabral was presented in a show with Robby Carmona as creative director and Patrick Rosas as visual artist. It reimagined the classic barong and terno with elements of contemporary design using the iconic piña fabric.