Rapidly after the virus spread across the country, many hospitals faced dwindling supplies of PPEs due to the rising number of COVID-19 patients. While the government scrambled to look for PPE sources, local fashion designers took initiative in creating alternative PPEs with their personal twists.

TELETUBBIES INSPIRE VIBRANT PPEs

Last April, fashion designer and nurse Adrian Pe from Iloilo City trended with his vibrant PPEs. Inspired from famous shows such as Teletubbies, Power Rangers, and Star Wars for his fellow nurses, he combined his skills in apparel design and his knowledge on infection control. Adrian hopes that his PPEs “can help lessen the weariness and dread that is filling our hospitals nowadays.”

Also hailing from Iloilo City, designer Ram Silva drew inspiration from the hit Netflix series, Money Heist in making his version of alternative PPEs. “I love watching Money Heist. The characters there are brave and courageous, just like our doctors and nurses,” Ram says. 

MANILA PROTECTIVE GEAR SEWING CLUB

In response to voluminous requests for PPEs, the Office of the Vice President called on local designers to take part in their mission. Designer Mich Dulce was among the first ones to answer the call and after tapping some of her fellow designers, the Manila Protective Gear Sewing Club commenced.

In just a day, the team was able to create a pattern for the project, all medically reviewed and approved. The first suit approved was made by Joey Socco and her team. The Club is now working with other famous designers such as Mark Bumgarner, Charina Sarte and pageant beauty queens.

PHILIPPINE AIRLINES’ PPEs FOR CABIN CREW

Filipino fashion designer Erwin Tan, known for his made-to-order works, teamed up with flag carrier Philippine Airlines. His finished PPE was made of an all-white fabric with adjusted proportions and cinched waist for added comfort and form. The design also included a clear-cut shoulder accent featuring the colors of the Philippine flag.

Erwin Tan explains, “It was a conscious effort on my part to add that detail because I wanted to give them a sense of pride—which was for them, the logo of PAL. I wanted to incorporate it in a subtle way not for branding, but just to feel good. So that was my contribution.”

In response to COVID-19, we have seen various sectors brought together for a common cause. Significantly during this year’s Pride Month, we applaud and honor our LGBTQ+ kababayans, our local fashion designers, who answered the call in the face of a global crisis. As a country working towards healing as one, may we also mend the divide and inequality in society amid this pandemic.

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Author
Alec Templonuevo
Managing editor for Online Media