CAGAYAN de Oro City — How can a traditional dress stay relevant to a new generation? Designer Melvin Maverick Uyao offered his take, winning the Mascota de Zamboanga 2026 competition with a modern interpretation of the city’s iconic attire.
Uyao took first place on Oct. 6, besting 11 other local designers in the fashion showcase held during the annual Zamboanga Hermosa Festival.
Jonard Bazan placed second, followed by Hamza Panghulu in third. Ardamin Hashim and Erich Miñoza finished fourth and fifth, respectively.
Organized by the city government in partnership with the Fashion Designers Association of Zamboanga, the competition featured traditional and contemporary interpretations of the Mascota, the formal gown historically worn by Zamboangueña women.
The annual showcase highlights how local designers can preserve the craftsmanship and cultural identity associated with the garment while adapting it to modern fashion.
Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso congratulated the participating designers, saying the Mascota represents Zamboanga City’s heritage and creative talent.
The program also featured a special collection by designer Mir Tawasil. Olaso and his family joined the runway wearing creations by designer Federico Navarro.
Among those who attended were Vice Mayor Beng Climaco, Tourism Undersecretary Myra Paz Abubakar and members of the city council.
The competition is a regular feature of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival, held annually in honor of the city’s patron saint, Nuestra Señora La Virgen del Pilar.
