Experience Fashion and Culture at Repurposed This November: A Fashion Concert Featuring Filipino Excellence

Repurposed: A Fashion Concert by Mr. Gino-o is an exciting fashion event curated by the visionary Albert Prias, the founder and driving force behind Mr. Gino-o. Scheduled for 10 November 2024, from 4 to 8 PM, this highly anticipated show will take place at the prestigious Sir Stamford Plaza in Mascot. With an impressive lineup of designers and collections, it promises to be an unforgettable celebration of fashion, culture, and diversity. Tickets are priced at $110, and the event includes a buffet dinner starting at 6 PM, available exclusively through pre-booking until 30 October. Those interested can contact Albert Prias at 0402 533 587 for ticket reservations.

Mr. Gino-o: Celebrating Filipino Heritage Through Fashion

At the heart of the event is Mr. Gino-o, an innovative fashion label that reimagines traditional Filipino garments for the modern era. One of their standout offerings is their contemporary take on the Barong Tagalog, which redefines this classic piece while preserving its cultural and aesthetic integrity. Mr. Gino-o recreates the Barong to look trendy and contemporary without losing the essence of its traditional elegance, ensuring it remains a symbol of Filipino pride.

Mr. Gino-o; Made For Men was established to promote Philippine products and materials, including abaca, jusi, piña, banana fiber, inaul, inabel, and tinalak hand-woven cloths. Designed and crafted by Filipinos, these garments are tailored to appeal to the international market. The label seeks to elevate Filipino craftsmanship, showcasing the beauty and versatility of locally sourced materials.

Each collection is meticulously curated based on Albert Prias’ creative concept, which infuses traditional elements with contemporary flair. Mr. Gino-o aims to spotlight Filipino-designed men’s garments, offering an elevated fashion experience that seamlessly blends heritage and modernity.

An Extravaganza of Fashion and Artistry

Repurposed: A Fashion Concert brings together some of the most distinguished and talented designers from the Philippines and Australia, each showcasing their unique vision and creativity. The event features an eclectic mix of haute couture, traditional Filipino attire, and elegant suits, celebrating the artistry of fashion while highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

Ruel Rivera Haute Couture: Pioneering Elegance

One of the event’s highlights is the collection from Ruel Rivera Haute Couture, an esteemed name in the Philippine fashion industry. Known for his extraordinary talent and impeccable craftsmanship, Ruel Rivera consistently pushes the boundaries of style and elegance. His creations blend sophistication with contemporary trends, establishing new benchmarks in fashion. With a reputation for being one of the most reliable and sought-after designers, Rivera’s collection promises to captivate audiences, offering a glimpse into a world of stylish and trendy masterpieces.

Rommel Plazo Concept: Minimalism Meets Sensual Refinement

Another designer featured at Repurposed is Rommel Plazo Concept, spearheaded by Rommel Plazo Catap. Making a significant impact in the Philippine fashion scene, Catap’s portfolio is renowned for its clean-cut designs that embody sensual refinement. His pieces are elegantly structured, showcasing a timeless aesthetic emphasizing form and simplicity. Audiences can expect a collection that captures the essence of sophistication, making a powerful statement in the world of contemporary fashion.

Ambisioza: Traditional Filipiniana with a Modern Twist

Ambisioza, founded by Kate Ederadad and Joy Ventura, will present a breathtaking Filipiniana collection for those who appreciate traditional Filipino attire. The Filipiniana, a traditional and national dress of the Philippines, symbolizes elegance and cultural pride. Ambisioza’s designs not only honour the heritage of this classic attire but also infuse modern elements that appeal to a contemporary audience. The collection will also include a wide variety of Barong Tagalog for men and Filipiniana gowns for women, offering attendees a chance to experience the beauty and diversity of Filipino fashion.

Rene Rivas: A Multicultural Icon and Fashion Maestro

The event will also feature the iconic works of Rene Rivas, a multi-awarded fashion designer and artist extraordinaire. With a career spanning over three decades, Rivas is a celebrated figure in film, theatre, opera, television, and magazines. His most notable contributions include the costume designs for the 2000 Sydney Olympics and various international pageants, exhibitions, and the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Rene Rivas is recognised not only for his artistic achievements but also for his commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community and multiculturalism in Australia. In 1986, he founded the Latin American LGBTQA community and friends group to promote multiculturalism, diversity, human rights, inclusion, and social equality. He continues to be a dedicated advocate for transgender youth and survivors of discrimination, abuse, and religious persecution.

His extensive contributions have earned him numerous accolades, such as the SGLMG Lifetime Achievement Award (2016) and the Ron Amuncaster Costume Award (2002). His costumes, now showcased at the Powerhouse Museum’s “Absolutely Queer” exhibition, will also be exhibited at the National Gallery of Australia, Museum of Contemporary Art, and other prominent galleries across Australia, solidifying his legacy as a leading multicultural designer.

A Celebration of Fashion, Culture, and Philanthropy

Repurposed: A Fashion Concert is more than just a fashion show; it’s a celebration of cultural diversity and a platform for showcasing the artistic talents of both emerging and established designers. The event will highlight the intersection of tradition and modernity, allowing audiences to appreciate the intricate craftsmanship and design philosophies of some of the finest fashion talents from the Philippines and Australia.

With the event’s emphasis on elegance, culture, and inclusivity, Albert Prias and his team aim to create a night that not only showcases stunning designs but also fosters a sense of unity and pride among Australia’s multicultural communities.

Event Details

  • Date: 10 November 2024
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Venue: Sir Stamford Plaza, Mascot
  • Ticket Price: $110 (Includes buffet dinner at 6 PM)
  • Ticket Reservations: Contact Albert Prias at 0402 533 587 (Pre-booking only until 30 October)

Mark your calendars for an evening of fashion, art, and cultural celebration. Repurposed: A Fashion Concert by Mr. Gino-o is set to be a spectacular event that honours the timeless elegance of traditional attire while embracing the innovation and creativity of modern haute couture.

Filoz Entertainment Collective (FEC) Set to Launch: A New Era for Filipino-Australian Creativity

The spotlight will shine brightly on Filipino-Australian talent this Sunday, 26 October at 6 PM, as the Filipino Entertainment Collective (FEC) officially launches at ACI, Shop 4, 3–9 Warby Street, Campbelltown.

This much-anticipated event marks the beginning of a vibrant new movement designed to empower the Filipino-Australian entertainment industry through platforms that celebrate creativity, artistry, and cultural pride.

FEC’s mission is to elevate Filipino talent in Australia by creating opportunities that blend traditional Filipino heritage with contemporary influences. The organisation aims to bridge generations — embracing Baby Boomers and Gen X while inspiring Filipino-Australian youth and inviting multicultural communities to join in celebrating Filipino identity as part of Australia’s richly diverse cultural landscape.

“FEC is more than just an organisation — it’s a creative community,” says the founding team. “We’re here to give Filipino-Australians a voice in entertainment, to tell our stories, and to showcase the brilliance of Filipino culture in a modern, relatable way.”

The launch event will feature an exciting mix of performances, guest appearances, and networking opportunities, bringing together artists, community leaders, and entertainment industry professionals. It will also highlight FEC’s vision to establish itself as a recognised brand for Filipino-Australian youth culture and entertainment, uniting the community under one banner of pride, passion, and purpose.

As the Filipino Entertainment Council steps into the spotlight, it promises to nurture a new generation of creators — fostering collaboration, confidence, and cultural connection across Australia’s growing entertainment scene.

🎟️ Event Details:
Date: Sunday, 26 October 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: ACI, Shop 4, 3–9 Warby Street, Campbelltown, NSW

Join the movement. Celebrate the launch of FEC — where Filipino creativity meets Australian opportunity.

GMA Network triumphs at the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting+ Awards 2024

As it takes bold steps to embrace the industry’s rapid digital advancements, media giant GMA Network was among the broadcasting companies in Asia-Pacific recognized at the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting+ Awards 2024, held last May 30 in Singapore.

The Network took home three awards in the following categories: “Series Production –  Philippines,”  “Technology Animation – Philippines,” and “Set Design Enabling Special Effects – Philippines.”

GMA Integrated News’ (GMAIN) flagship newscast “24 Oras” won the “Series Production – Philippines” award for “Banta ng Nagbabagong Klima.” The latter was a series of special reports that investigated the effects of climate change. It shed light on the impact of extreme weather conditions, deforestation, and the displacement of communities and at the same time showcased tales of resilience and innovation in adapting to the threat of climate change.

Earning the award for “Technology Animation – Philippines” was the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Sports Series Project of GMAIN’s Social Media Team and GMA New Media Inc. The winning entry featured the country’s first-ever AI presenters, Maia and Marco, who bring the biggest news on NCAA Season 99 as well as updates on local and international sports featuring Filipino athletes on the social media platforms of GMAIN, GMA Sports, and GMA Synergy.

Meanwhile, the Philippines’ longest-running morning show Unang Hirit (UH) won the “Set Design Enabling Special Effects – Philippines” for its world-class studio that combines aesthetics and function with innovative elements. Unveiled in October last year, the winning studio set was designed by the U.S.-based company FX Design Group, which is known for its use of cutting-edge technology in projects for some of the world’s top broadcasters. It was constructed with the help of Script2010, the in-house construction arm of GMA Network, and GMA’s Engineering Department, which has been responsible for the creation of GMA’s studios over the years.

“This win from Asia Pacific Broadcasting Awards 2024 cements GMAIN’s foothold as the news authority of Filipinos, bringing timely and relevant stories including the defining issue of our time, effects of climate change, to a much larger audience across the Philippines and overseas while fearlessly trailblazing the use of technology,” says Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso.

“We are very proud of our ‘Unang Hirit’ team as they continue to find ways to delight audiences and innovate on the show after 25 years on the air; this newest set is our most beautiful ever and we are very grateful for the recognition from the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Awards,” shares First Vice President for GMA Public Affairs Nessa S. Valdellon.

The Asia-Pacific Broadcasting+ Awards seeks to recognize innovation and excellence in projects across the Asia-Pacific region that advance the field of broadcasting in the areas of technology, digitalization, and engineering.

Sparkle is bringing its world-class concerts to Japan this October!

Buckle up, Global Pinoys! Sparkle GMA Artist Center, the leading talent management agency in the Philippines, is finally bringing the Sparkle World Tour to the so-called Land of the Rising Sun, Japan!

After the massive success of California, San Francisco, Calgary, and Toronto shows last April and August, Sparkle GMA Artist Center is leveling it up once more as it brings world-class performances closer to home, specifically in Asia.

As one of Sparkle’s biggest offerings this 2024, the Sparkle World Tour is meant to capture the hearts of international fans with electrifying performances from the management’s best of the best.

Sparkle and its lineup of artists for Japan are making sure they give their fans a taste of Manila with electrifying group production numbers, nakakakilig collaborations from the love teams, impeccable solo performances, and many more!

“Sparkle Goes to Japan” will showcase two shows: one on October 19 and another on October 20, both held at Igusamori Park in Suginami City.

Both shows will headline Philippine TV’s New Action Hero Ruru Madrid, Sparkle’s Prime Gem Bianca Umali, Star of the New Gen Jillian Ward, Asia’s Limitless Couple: Kapuso Total Heartthrob Rayver Cruz, and Asia’s Limitless Star Julie Anne San Jose along with Sparkle stars Betong Sumaya, Mark Oliveros, and Yasser Marta.

In addition to the impressive lineup, the best part of these shows is that admission is free! So, everyone is encouraged to come and help spread the word.

Sparkle Goes to Japan is brought to you by Sparkle GMA Artist Center, GMA Pinoy TV, One Network, Star Studio Japan, and OWWA and powered by event partners Avignon, Luxe, Magical Holidays, Klook, Niceprint Photography, and Mirrage Enterprises.

Make sure to follow Sparkle GMA Artist Center (@sparklegmaartistcenter) to get the latest updates on the upcoming international tour.