Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, in collaboration with JMG Infinity Events, proudly celebrated the strength, style, and stories of women at “Her Story: Celebrating Every Woman’s Milestones,” a fashion gala that transformed the runway into a powerful canvas of empowerment.
The gala reimagined fashion as a tribute to the diverse milestones of a woman’s journey—from
childhood dreams and motherhood to career breakthroughs and community leadership. The evening
brought together powerful personal narratives and exquisite couture in one unforgettable showcase of
resilience and grace.
Leading the visual storytelling was designer Rhon Balagtas, a rising name in Philippine fashion and a
passionate advocate of heritage and sustainability. Her debut solo gala featured original creations
reflecting timeless elegance and the enduring courage of the modern Filipina. Each piece paid homage
to local artisans, indigenous weaves, and the cultural richness of the Philippines.
Gracing the runway were some of the country’s most beloved beauty queens—including the
Philippines’ first Miss Universe, Gloria Diaz, along with Bea Santiago, and Nina Ricci Alagao—who walked alongside esteemed women leaders, philanthropists, and advocates. Notably, Angela Sison
of Mama Lou’s Italian Kitchen, Cecile Bravo of Intele, and Cluster General Manager Patria Puyat
of Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria also took to the runway, symbolizing
leadership and purpose in motion.
One of the evening’s most inspiring moments came when Teacher Celine Cornejo, a cancer survivor,
walked the runway with grace and strength, embodying the very heart of Her Story—resilience,
triumph, and transformation.
Adding youthful inspiration to the program, 10-year-old gymnast Maren Luxe Reyes delivered a
stunning performance, showcasing grace, discipline, and the promise of future generations.
Musical icon Ima Castro elevated the atmosphere with a powerful performance under the direction of
Jason Donato, enriching the emotional resonance of the evening.
As host of the gala, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria also highlighted its commitment to sustainability
and community impact—values deeply woven into the event’s fabric. “At Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, we believe that true hospitality goes beyond service—it’s about creating meaningful experiences and supporting purposeful causes,” said Patria Puyat, Cluster General Manager.
Adding to the celebration of milestones, the 2-bedroom penthouse suite at Holiday Inn & Suites
Manila Galleria was recently transformed into a versatile event space—perfect for hosting intimate
milestone gatherings such as bridal showers, gender reveals, anniversaries, and more. This luxurious setting offers guests a private and stylish venue that can be customized to create unforgettable memories for any occasion.
The event was produced in collaboration with JMG Infinity Events, a premier events company with over
30 years of experience in delivering high-impact corporate and social events. Proceeds from the gala
benefited Project PEARLS, a non-profit organization supporting underprivileged Filipino communities through its values of Peace, Education, Aspiration, Respect, Love, and Smiles.
“As the lights dimmed and the first model walked the runway, the message was clear: fashion is more
than beauty—it is a powerful voice for women, echoing strength, freedom, and the countless milestones
that shape their story,” said Patria Puyat, Founder and CEO of JMG Infinity Events.
Earlier in the day, at 3 PM, as part of the #HerStory Milestone Event, emerging designers from the
Fashion Institute of the Philippines presented a matinee fashion show titled “Threads of the World: A Global Heritage.” The segment celebrated global traditions through modern design, featuring traditional garments from Asia, Africa, the Americas, Europe, and Oceania—highlighting exquisite craftsmanship and rich cultural narratives in a spirit of global unity. Among the featured personalities were Beauty Queen Wynwyn Marquez and actor and entrepreneur Will Devaughn and his wife, who walked the runway to represent multicultural harmony and family legacy.
The event was proudly sponsored by San Miguel Corporation, Twinings, Roger Acierda, Cake
Concepts, Leggo, GExtreme, Galaxy, Angelo’s, Culture Salon & Style Lounge, Lambanog Bahala
Brandy, Intele, Jo Bragais, Love Rocks Jewelry, Fashion Institute of the Philippines – Makati, Mama
Lou’s Italian Kitchen, and House of Arogya.
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