KARILAGAN MARRIES INDIGENOUS WEAVES AND AVANT-GARDE DESIGN AT THE MET

Manila, Philippines – Traditional weaving meets avant-garde design in the latest exhibition, “Karilagan: Mga Tradisyunal na Habi at Kasuotan sa Makabagong Panahon,” which opened at the Metropolitan Theater on November 9, 2026. Theater actor and fashion storyteller Norman P. Peñaflorida reimagines classic Filipino allure for a new generation.

This special exhibition showcases the masterworks of Kasuotan, Kultura, Kasaysayan by acclaimed designer Norman P. Peñaflorida of The Closet Couture. Known for his traditional yet stylish pieces, Peñaflorida presented a runway and gallery that integrated different cultural identities into the garments and wardrobes of modern Filipinos.

Karilagan Couture exhibit at Gallery 1 and 2 of MET /Photo by Obra Mismo.

The gallery was officially opened by the fashion storyteller himself, alongside NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Operations Bernan Joseph R. Corpuz, NCCA-MET Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Christian John Serrano, and Mr. Rene S. Napeñas, Chief Administrative Officer of the Administrative and Finance Division (AFD).

Penaflorida with NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Operations Bernan Corpuz and MET Chief Administrative Officer CJ Serrano during the ribbon-cutting of Karilagan /Photo by Obra Mismo.

Following the opening, the theater came alive with a series of phenomenal performances. The program featured musical numbers by guest artists Nazer Salcedo, Myramae Meneses, Anthony Castillo, and the iconic Bayang Barrios. These vocal performances were paired with choreography from Tanghalang Pilipino, underscored by selections from the Pinay-pop musical Lakambini .

Tanghalang Filipino’s Pinay pop musical Lakambini during their dance performance /Photo by Obra Mismo.

With the diverse cultural artistic expressions known in the Philippines, this fashion show is one way to retain its relevance and symbolism by highlighting textiles and fabrics as featured in distinct designs. Penaflorida’s crafts are unique in the ways it weaves into contemporary fashion, its own way of extending appreciation to Philippine culture.

Worn and modeled by Asia’s first and longest-running improv comedy theater group, SPIT Manila, its masterpieces blended traditional-inspired and modern Filipino attractions.

The ensemble demonstrates the versatility and timeless aesthetic of indigenous craftsmanship when integrated into contemporary theater and fashion.

SPIT Manila wearing the works of Penaflorida/Photo by Obra Mismo.

The NCCA maintains its commitment to continuously encourage Filipinos to wear the heritage with pride and keep the local artistry alive. Visit Gallery 1 and 2 of MET to witness the stunning fashion couture that elevates the authenticity of Filipino culture.

For details on this press release, contact Mr. Rene S. Napeñas, Chief Administrative Officer and Head, Public Affairs and Information Office, through paio@ncca.gov.ph or 0945 788 5698. Visit www.ncca.gov.ph and the Facebook page @NCCAOfficial.

The Filipino word karilagan in English translates to beauty, magnificence, splendor, or gorgeousness.

Pressenza Philippines