2nd from left: Supermodel Ria Bolivar; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Written and photographed
By Jude Thaddeus Bautista
For decades The Peninsula Manila has been a paragon of style and sophistication. Everyone from world leaders to people of fame and the international elite stay at ‘The Pen’ when in Manila. So there could have been no other hallowed place that would host such a momentous occasion. Randy Ortiz’ penultimate 30th anniversary show last November 26th, 2018 was the very definition of timeless elegance. [For Part 1 of this 2 part series click here]
The Ortiz show can easily be described as old Hollywood Glam albeit with the Filipino’s flair for color and flights of fancy. With the pulled up hair of the models one can easily visualize Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly wearing Ortiz’ stylish gowns. An all black tuxedo-like number (and another piece similarly in all white) pays homage to Marlene Dietrich herself.
Fine jewelry by DIA GOLD and accessories by KIT SILVER; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
LIFESTYLE ASIA’s December 2018 / January 2019 issue had a very revealing tribute to Randy Ortiz’ family history and career written by Chino R. Hernandez for a cover story photographed by MJ Suayan. It is a must read for anyone curious about one of the most influential names in fashion.
from left: Juliana Gomez, Randy Ortiz, Congresswoman Lucy Torres Gomez and LIFESTYLE ASIA EIC Anna Sobrepeña. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
The issue also features Gianni Versace, artworks of jewelry designer Hans Brumann and the recent masterpieces of Jaime Zobel De Ayala. Lifestyle Asia EIC Anna Sobrepeña was honored as Editor of the Year in the Asia Leaders Award 2018 along with the magazine earning a Philippine Quill award.
from left: Randy Ortiz and fashion show director Jackie Aquino; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
To quote the LIFESTYLE ASIA cover story, “Thirty years later Randy has remained one of the country’s top designers. Manila’s fashion lovers continue to beat a path to his door for the timeless, wearable and romantic designs. ‘I’m classic but with an edge,’ he smiles.”
That edge can be seen in his masterful choice of fabric and color. The native Philippine material Piña lends a unique and feminine feel for the long flowing dresses and skirts. The elaborate embroidery called burda adds whimsy. They become a contemporary translation of materials that are traditionally Filipino and breathe new life into them. Men’s coats and jackets become canvases for elaborate prints and textures while at the same time maintaining their classic feel.
Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
PMAP& The Next Generation
The title of the show Homage, however, is not just about timelessness of Ortiz’ fashion. It also has the freshness and exhilaration of youth. Ortiz throughout his career has worked with the most revered supermodels, having nurtured their careers along the way: Apples Aberin, Tweetie De Leon, Wilma Doesnt, Grace Molina, Marina Benipayo, Richard Gomez, John Estrada and many more. These names happen to be the same core group of models that formed the Professional Models Association of the Philippines almost at the same time Randy was making a reputation for himself in the late eighties, early nineties.
Nicolas Gonzales; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
For this show Ortiz debuts the next generation of models that were born from the genes of their beloved and admired parents: Nicolas, Lorenzo and Sabina Gonzales get their looks from mom Tweetie De Leon.
Josh Benipayo; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Modelling skills of Marina Benipayo rubbed off on son Josh. Blogger and online influencer Kaila Estrada is daughter of John Estrada. Aya Abesamis is the daughter of Bb. Pilipinas Universe 1984 Desiree Verdadero Abesamis.
Aya Abesamis; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (10)
Kaila Estrada; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Emilia Asiana Doesnt; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Emilia Asiana Doesnt got her beautiful smile from mom Wilma Doesnt who is not only a model but a TV actress and host.
from left: Wilma Doesnt and Congresswoman Lucy Torres Gomez. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Juliana has acquired super genes from both of her gorgeous parents Richard Gomez and Congresswoman Lucy Torres Gomez.
Juliana Gomez; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Tweetie
Prominent in the article written by Noel Sales Barcelona, Randy Ortiz 30th: An Artistic Journey Part 1 is the collaboration between artists, painters and sculptors that resulted in a simultaneous exhibit during the fashion show.
Randy Homage: Artist: MonnarBaldemor, Title: Homage to Randy Ortiz, Acrylic on Canvas, 36 x 48 inches | 2018
Curated by The Artologist Gallery, there were ten exhibiting fine artists: Judeo Razon Herrera, Julmard Vicente, Hiro Kawabata, Adam Nacianceno, Monnar Baldemor, Fernando Antimano, Eman Santos, Doltz Pilar, Valen Valero and Carlo Saavedra. ‘All of them converged to honor Ortiz as an artist and as a person of beauty,’ wrote Barcelona.
from left: LIFESTYLE ASIA EIC Anna Sobrepeña, Don De Castro and Tweetie De Leon-Gonzales. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Although Ortiz was not the only inspiration; one of the works was inspired by model Tweetie De Leon, simply entitled ‘Tweetie’. The painting is a striking abstract portrait in black and white that nevertheless captures the ageless beauty. It’s no surprise that she inspires artists just as much today as when she first started modeling. Some might argue she’s even more ravishing now than her days of modeling for Randy.
Artist: Adam Nacianceno, Title: Tweetie, Acrylic on Canvas, 48×36 inches | 2018 (17)
Ria Bolivar & Jasmine Maierhofer
Tweetie represents that ideal Filipina look especially with her complexion. Today’s current supermodels like Ria Bolivar also has that undeniable Filipina charm, those same high cheekbones. As a photographer I believe Ria has to be the best model today hands down. I love her versatility from dress to dress and show to show. Here in RandyO she’s ultra feminine, demure, virtuous, everything can be gleaned on her face and how she walks.
Supermodel Ria Bolivar; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
During Rajo Laurel’s show, wearing a black-feathered cape, almost looking like a superhero or super villain whichever you may choose, her facial expression was fierce.
Supermodel Jasmine Maierhofer; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
The definition of Filipina beauty has certainly grown. Supermodel and photographer Jo Ann Bitagcol for example is Filipina but can also pass for Japanese or Chinese. Especially now with names like Pia Wurtzbach and our latest Miss Universe Catriona Gray, that perception, that definition has widened. Jasmine Maierhofer who has made her own reputation in international fashion has Austrian roots. Her features can both be Caucasian and Asian.
Supermodel Jasmine Maierhofer; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (20)
2 Runways
The sheer size of RandyO’s 30th anniversary show was an enormous challenge to create, curate and then execute. There were 2 separate runways in order to fully display all the magnificent pieces. Models had to work their way through the Peninsula Manila’s storied landing, go down (& up) marble steps and meander to the second runway inside a huge hallway/ function room. And then go back to the landing by the marble staircase.
Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
If you can imagine 70+ people were moving through the walkways in two separate ‘ramps’. Then climbing marble steps up and down in high heels flowing skirts and dresses and projecting at the same time, it’s all an accident waiting to happen. This is with a live audience seated just an arm’s length away. That’s why most fashion shows build their ramps and stages to accommodate their choreography not the other way around.
All models should be congratulated for the accident free show. But when you look at Ria and Jasmine in particular they are able to make it look easy. They give you so many expressions, that you are able to shoot more pictures. How they walk and project is something aspiring models should emulate. Knowing when to speed up, slow down and work the cameras is an art in itself that they have conquered.
Supermodel Ria Bolivar; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (24)
center: Randy Ortiz & Juliana Gomez; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Love for Randy
After the show, countless designers, models, showbiz personalities, well-heeled clients and fans were all present to congratulate and express their love for Randy. The celebration lasted hours after the fashion show. It became a reunion of sorts for present and past members of PMAP (Professional Models Association of the Philippines) and Fashion & Design Council. The huge crowd was a testament to how beloved Randy Ortiz is as a designer and human being.
from left: Irene Marcos-Araneta, Sen Sanchez, Ito Curata and Bob Miller. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
from left: John Estrada, Marilen Nuñez, Randy Ortiz and Ogie Alcasid. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (26)
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Artist: Eman Santos, Title: Tres Estilo, Acrylic On Canvas, 36×48 inches | 2018 (27)
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Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (29)
Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (30)
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Harrison Hay; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (31)
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(left) Artist: Monnar Baldemor, Title: Le Modele Series 5, Acrylic on Sculpted Ceramic, H: 29 W: 11 T: 11inches | 2018, (right) Artist: Monnar Baldemor, Title: Le Modele Series 2, Acrylic on Sculpted Ceramic H: 30 W: 12 T: 9 inches | 2018
Art exhibit opening from left: Peninsula Manila GM Li Mark Choon, Ramon Orlina, Iza Agano, Don De Castro, Randy Ortiz, Suyen Chi-Sia, Hans Brumann and PDI Lifestyle Editor Thelma Sioson-San Juan. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (35)
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Artist: Fernando Antimano, Title: Blossom, Oil on Canvas, 48 x 36 inches | 2018 (36)
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from left: Ronald Mabanag, Henry Calayag, Vic Barba, Izza Agana, Jojie Lloren and Tonichi Nocom. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
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from left: PDI Lifestyle Editor Thelma Sioson-San Juan, Ramon and Lay Orlina. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
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John Estrada; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (44)
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Artist: Carlo Saavedra, Title: In Search of Eden 1, Mixed Media, 48×36 inches | 2018 (47)
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from left: Izza Agana, Suyen Chi-Sia, Maribel Lastimosa and Pretty Coronel. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (48)
From left: Toots Tolentino, PDI Lifestyle Editor Thelma Sioson-San Juan and Dr. John Ray Galamay. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (49)
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from left: Tweetie De Leon, Marga Nograles-Kaayo, Randy Ortiz and Yanee Alvarez. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (52)
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2nd from left Jasmine Maierhofer; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
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Artist: Judeo Herrera, Title: Beauty Unfolds, Acrylic on Canvas, 48×36 inches | 2018 (56)
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from left: Marco Protacio, Vic Barba, Tonichi Nocom, Randy Ortiz, Henry Calayag, Ronald Mabanag and Jackie Aquino. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
from left: Grace and daughter Isabella Molina, Jane Molina, Kim w model mom Phem Baranda. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
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Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
center: Emilia Asiana Doesnt; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
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Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Artist: Doltz Pillar, Title: Madame Dowager, Acrylic on Canvas, 36×48 inches | 2018
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from left: Artist / Jewelry designer Hans Brumann, Maria Brumann and Randy Ortiz. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
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Juliana Gomez; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
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from left: Toots Tolentino, Marlon Garcia, Carl David, Morick Gutierrez, Jack Garcia and Dotlz Pilar. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
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Fine jewelry by DIA GOLD and accessories by KIT SILVER; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista (72)
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Aya Abesamis; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
from left: Wilma Doesnt, Juliana Gomez and Congresswoman Lucy Torres Gomez. Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
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Fine jewelry by DIA GOLD and accessories by KIT SILVER; Randy Ortiz’ 30th anniversary gala ‘Homage’ was held at THE PENINSULA MANILA, November 26, 2018. Photo by Jude Bautista
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Text and Photos by Jude Bautista