Filipino Fashion Showcased at Thailand’s Prestigious Silk Celebration

Philippine Ambassador to Thailand Millicent Cruz Paredez walks the runway at the Opening Ceremony of the 14th Celebration of Silk: Thai Silk Road to the World 2025, showcasing the Philippine traditional costume, “Maria Clara” blended with the elegance of Thai silk. (Bangkok PE photo)

BANGKOK 26 June 2025 — Filipino fashion was proudly displayed at the opening of the “14th Celebration of Silk: Thai Silk Road to the World 2025” on 21 June 2025 at the Royal Thai Navy Auditorium, Bangkok, Thailand.

Philippine Ambassador to Thailand Millicent Cruz Paredes joined fellow ambassadors, representatives of the Royal Thai Government, and members of the diplomatic corps in Bangkok in displaying on the catwalk the silk ensembles designed and tailored by university students across Thailand. For two years running, she has played a significant role as a member of the organizing committee and a featured participant in the Grand Fashion Show.

Ambassador Paredes’ dress combined the iconic Philippine costume, the “Maria Clara” or “traje de mestiza,” with the elegance of Thai silk, which resulted in a stunning blend of Filipino sartorial tradition and Thai artistry. This unique ensemble reflected distinct elements of the Filipiniana attire, including blouse called “baro” with puffy sleeves, the long skirt called “saya,” and the delicate scarf worn over the shoulders called “pañuelo.”  An exquisite lace overlay completed the elaborate and elegant silhouette. 

The fusion of design not only honored both nations’ cultural heritage but also reflected the deep ties between the Philippines and Thailand, and their growing partnership in arts, culture, and creative industries.

The event was held in honor of the 47th birth anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshan. It also served to strengthen the enduring friendship among participating countries through the universal language of fashion and culture, as it promoted the beauty of Thai silk. As the most senior Ambassador on the organizing committee, Ambassador Paredes delivered a recorded message on what the fashion show was about, then a live speech at the program’s conclusion to greet Her Majesty the Queen on the occasion of her 47th birth anniversary, on behalf of the organizing committee and the entire diplomatic corps. 

The Thai Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Thai Silk and Thai Culture Promotion Association, the Ministry of Education, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, among others, are the organizers of the “14th Celebration of Silk: Thai Silk Road to the World 2025.” An exhibition featuring the attires of 89  participating countries followed the fashion show and will run until 29 June 2025. END

Ambassador Millicent Cruz Paredes greets Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana on the occasion of her 47th birth anniversary. (Photo courtesy of NBT TV)

For more information, visit https://www.bangkokpe.dfa.gov.ph, or https://www.facebook.com/PHinThailand/.