President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27, 2026, was marked by the absence of the traditional red carpet, reflecting calls for greater simplicity and restraint.
Even so, the occasion remained a showcase of Filipino creativity, with guests wearing thoughtfully designed pieces that highlighted local craftsmanship.
Here are some of the standout creations by Filipino designers at this year's SONA.
MARK BUMGARNER
Mark Bumgarner designed the archival gown worn by Department of Justice Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez at the 2026 SONA.
The powder-blue piece featured clean lines, sculpted butterfly sleeves, and fine hand embellishments incorporating a palay pattern.
MICHAEL LEYVA
Michael Leyva created several looks for this year's SONA, including the ensemble worn by GMA Network Senior Vice President Annette Gozon-Valdes.
Her deep blue Filipiniana featured a structured wrap-style skirt with diagonal pleated draping.
Michael also designed the cream-colored modern Filipiniana worn by Bukidnon 3rd District Representative Audrey Tan Zubiri.
The ensemble featured voluminous sheer sleeves and delicate layered lace detailing.
Xandra Rocha-Araneta, wife of presidential nephew Luis Marcos Araneta, wore a pink creation by Michael Leyva, which the designer describes as a "subtle statement in modern Filipiniana."
The modern white Filipiniana terno worn by Emmeline Yan Aglipay-Villar was designed by Michael Leyva.
The gown featured statement butterfly sleeves and tiered lace detailing, with styling by Cath Sobrevega.
For Palace Social Secretary Bianca Zobel, Michael designed a look composed of structured butterfly sleeves, a vibrant gold floral brocade bodice, and flowing olive chartreuse trousers.
Pampanga 3rd District Representative Mica Gonzales donned a light-blue Filipiniana gown, also created by Michael Leyva.
It featured traditional butterfly sleeves, an overlaid sheer net material, and scattered pearl embellishments.
JO RUBIO
Senator Risa Hontiveros's ivory silk terno at the 2026 SONA was designed by Jo Rubio.
She was styled by Maita Baello, Melville Sy, and their team at Studio24C.
The creation featured sculptural silk draping, accented with Sampaguita-inspired Baroque pearls and luminous Nákar shells.
Jo also created the nude ruched terno worn by Sinta Hontiveros, daughter of Senator Risa Hontiveros. Like her mother, Sinta was styled by the Studio24C team.
RAM SILVA
Ram Silva designed the custom Filipiniana worn by Congresswoman Dr. Kathy Gorriceta at this year's SONA.
The creation's applique took inspiration from golden rice fields, incorporating elements that reflect abundance, prosperity, and the heritage of the Ilonggo people.
On one hand, some netizens looked past the creativity and criticized the wearers, saying such displays of luxury feel excessive or disconnected from the realities many Filipinos face.
But whether their concerns are valid or shaped by political views, these gowns embody both simplicity and elegance, and their craftsmanship deserves recognition and celebration.