On October 3, 2024, acclaimed Filipino fashion designer Dennis Lustico unveiled his latest collection, “Pamana,” in a grand celebration of his 25th year in the fashion industry. The event was held at the historic Goldenberg Mansion in Manila, which served as the perfect backdrop for this cultural showcase; for this special occasion, he paid homage to his roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary Filipino design.

The collection’s title, “Pamana,” a Filipino word meaning inheritance or heritage, reflects Lustico’s deep commitment to preserving and reimagining traditional craftsmanship. In doing so, he crafted a 50-piece collection that surpassed all others; it was a masterclass blending the past and the present. 

The series featured exquisite hand-crafted, youthful, timeless designs showcasing Indigenous Philippine fabrics like piña and abaca. These materials, sourced from regions across the main islands of the Philippines, were given new life through Lustico’s modern vision, resulting in garments deeply rooted in Filipino culture yet undeniably global.

The show opened with a striking presentation of 10 ambassadors to the Philippines, such as the United Kingdom’s Laure Beaufils, US Ambassador Mary Kay Carlson, Singapore’s Ms. Constance See, and others walking the runway in custom Dennis Lustico pieces, a powerful testament to the brand’s international reach.

 Following this, the “Pamana” collection took center stage, featuring 40 womenswear and ten menswear designs. From flowing gowns adorned with delicate native patterns to sharply tailored menswear pieces, each item was a tribute to the rich textile traditions of the Philippines.

For Lustico, this collection was a celebration of his personal journey and a statement about the future of Filipino fashion. “I wanted to do something that hadn’t been done before,” he explains. Something contemporary that would resonate globally and remain wearable for the years to come.” His dedication to precision and detail was evident in every piece, with hand-sewn patches of Indigenous flora strategically placed on cocktail dresses and carefully draping delicate muslin over mannequins to achieve the perfect fit.

The creative process behind “Pamana” began in February 2024, and Lustico approached the collection with a calm and clarity that reflected the significance of this milestone in his career. “I took my time with this,” he says. I wanted to do everything right.” In the workroom, his small team worked diligently, cutting and hand-painting tiny cubes of wood to create intricate accents while others painstakingly attached needlework embellishments, all to craft a collection that felt both timeless and innovative.

Lustico’s collaboration with artisans from the islands of  Aklan, Lumban, and northern Luzon emphasized his dedication to showcasing local talent, while the event supported a more significant cause. The event was produced by Patrick Rosas and Co-chaired by Consul Agnes Huibonhoa of Fashion Aid Philippines, a non-profit organization devoted to nurturing emerging designers and craftsmen. By choosing Fashion Aid as the event’s beneficiary, Lustico further solidified his role as a mentor and advocate for the next generation of Filipino designers, helping them hone their skills and find platforms to bring their visions to life.

With “Pamana,” Dennis Lustico celebrates 25 years of personal achievement and champions a collective vision of Filipino artistry and heritage. His ability to bridge tradition and innovation ensures that his legacy, much like the name of his collection, will be an inheritance for future generations of Filipino fashion talent.

PAMANA: A Silver Year Salon Show by Dennis Lustico happened on October 3, 2024 at the Goldenberg Mansion in Manila. Special thanks to Cong. Robert Nazal and Cong. Bernadette Herrera, Kultura, Pagcor, Diagold, Sec. Katrina Ponce-Enrile, Aivee Clinic, San Miguel Corporation, Aqua Boracay, Lepanto Mining and PiliAni