Hear The Voices of Mindanao Ring At This Month’s Vogue Dinner

Inside the Goldenberg Mansion, a celebration of Mindanaoan fashion, art, and culture unfolded as Vogue Philippines launched its “Voices of Mindanao” May 2024 issue.

For the May 2024 issue, Vogue Philippines continues its sojourn to the south with the theme “Voices of Mindanao.” A dinner was held at the Glass House of the Goldenberg Mansion to commemorate the two-issue special, with guest list that included several Mindanaoan artists and creatives as well as a National Living Treasure.

“‘To be seen and heard.’ This phrase flooded our inboxes after we launched our April issue,” editor-in-chief Bea Valdes says during her speech. “In these pages, we offer a small slice of the complexities and a glimpse into the culture that we encountered in Mindanao.”

As guests step into the grand interior of Goldenberg Mansion with event styling by Jos Curates, they were welcomed by the sound of kulintang and agong being played by three instrumentalists from the Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild. The music fills the space as the evening begins with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Clad in the colorful weaves from the diverse regions of Mindanao, attendees swapped stories of heritage, culture, and art, sharing insights and strengthening their bond with one another. 

Inside the Goldenberg Mansion’s Glass House, a five-course Mindanaoan dinner by Chef Miguel Cabel Moreno of Cabel Filipino Heritage Restaurant awaits. On the tables, illuminated by limited edition Evian x Coperni bottles, Cabel’s iterations of Mindanaoan dishes were served, such as Tiyula Itum, Beef Kurma in Baked Wonton Crisps, Pianggang with Kyunin, and Locon in Coconut Reduction.

Before dessert was served, fashion director Pam Quiñones introduced the “Voices of Mindanao” issue. “During the inception of Vogue Philippines, one of our missions was to put forth Filipino stories from all parts of the country, from places rich in culture to diverse backgrounds, redefining beauty and fashion,” Quiñones says. “Now in volume two, the culture issue, the current issue, we honor Mindanao voices from all corners of the southern region.”

Guests were also honored with a performance by National Living Treasure Rosie Sula, who graced the May’s cover. “This is not just for Mindanao, but for the entire country and the world,” Sula says at the end of her performance. “I have more stories to share. This is not the end.” The performance was followed by a fashion film featuring young models from diverse areas of Mindanao, who were featured in an editorial paying homage to Bukidnon.

The May 2024 issue of Vogue Philippines may be purchased through shop.vogue.ph.