From glitz and glam to bold statements: Fashion in Sona 2019’s red carpet

MANILA, Philippines — Some opted for simplicity, while some used the opportunity to show off their style or push forward their advocacies.

What lawmakers and their guests wear has always been the talk of the town during the State of the Nation Address (Sona) and President Rodrigo Duterte’s fourth one surely is no exception.

Senators glam up

Lawmakers from the upper and lower chamber together with their families and guests walked the red carpet rolled out at Batasan Complex in style.

One of the newly elected senators surely did not miss the chance to turn heads just like Sen. Imee Marcos’ yellow and red gradient gown designed by no less than Mak Tumang.

Photo by Tristan Tamayo

Tumang is the designer behind Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray’s iconic gowns.

Senator Pia Cayetano’s magenta fuchsia pink ensemble simply could not go unnoticeable especially with the local prints weaved on the top part of her gown.

Photo by Tristan Tamayo

But Senator Grace Poe, just like previous years, opted once again to wear her signature white knee-length dress.

Photo by Tristan Tamayo

Is black and white the trend?

Celebrities also did not disappoint in serving looks with their colorful ensembles proudly made by local designers.

Actress Dina Bonnevie was clad in black and white terno to match her husband Ilocos Sur Rep. Deogracias Victor “DV” Savellano as they walked down the red carpet.

Photo by Christia Ramos

White was also the choice of actress Aiko Melendez and Ciara Sotto who showed off their curves in their classic Filipiniana gowns.

Photo by Tristan Tamayo

Photo by Tristan Tamayo

Mother of 1Pacman Party-list Rep. Mikee Romero and partner of late veteran actor likewise was clad in black and white partnered with a pearl necklace.

Photo by Tristan Tamayo

Bold statement

Since fashion is also an art, some lawmakers used this to make a statement to push for their advocacies.

Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate wore a barong hand-painted with a Chinese and a Filipino fisherman to protest the protection of our sovereignty.

Photo by Tristan Tamayo

Kabataan party-list Rep. Sarah Elago also pushed for the same cause while her guests called for the end of killings in the drug war and the protection of fishermen.

Photo by Tristan Tamayo

Gabriela party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas carried a black fan which protested against water privatization.

Photo by Tristan Tamayo

ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro, on the other hand, also carried a fan but with the call to raise the salaries of public school teachers and government employees.