Tag Media Group presents 'Principalia' featuring Kenny Ladaga

The Principalia was the noble or ruling class in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period (16th to 19th century). This elite social class was composed of local chieftains (datus), gobernadorcillos (municipal mayors), cabezas de barangay (barangay heads), and their families. They were granted privileges such as exemption from forced labor (polo y servicio), the right to be addressed as Don or Doña, and a significant role in local governance.

Over time, many members of the Principalia became influential landowners, traders, and eventually political leaders in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Some of their descendants played key roles in the Philippine Revolution and in shaping the modern Filipino political and economic elite.

Today, we recognize a new Principalia — people who are shaping the nation and making a difference in society. These modern leaders were honored at "Principalia: The Women of Power and Purpose," a celebration held at the Makati Shangri-La, featuring the couture creations of emerging fashion designer Kenny Ladaga. The event, which also celebrated women's empowerment, showcased powerful muses who are making an impact in various sectors.

The muses who wore Kenny Ladaga's designs include: Maria Barbie Anne Arcache, LGBT Pilipinas Taguig City national leader and beauty queen; Gabrielle Hahn Lopez, daughter of former congressman Manny Lopez and member of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines (ICCPI); Andria Terese Nicolas, vice president of TAG Media Group and publisher of Rising Tigers Magazine, InCharge Magazine, and Top News Asia; Glenda Hufano, past district governor of Kiwanis International Philippine Luzon District and successful entrepreneur; Glenda Dela Cruz, young CEO of Beauty Empire under Brilliant Skin Essentials; and Grace Bondad Nicolas, president of TAG Media Group.

Kenny Ladaga is a distinguished fashion designer based in Davao City, renowned for his elegant and innovative creations. His work has received both local and international acclaim, with showcases in fashion capitals such as New York and Canada.

Ladaga's breakthrough came in 2012 during the Sagala Gown Competition at SM City Davao, marking the start of his rise in the fashion industry. Inspired by the beauty of nature, his design philosophy merges local fabrics from Mindanao with contemporary aesthetics, honoring his roots while producing distinctive, original pieces.

In 2024, one of his gowns was worn by Lana Collantes when she was crowned Teen Universe Petite. That same year, he was recognized as one of the "People to Watch 2024" by Rising Tigers Magazine, acknowledging his growing influence in the Asian fashion scene.

TAG Media Group, the producer of Principalia, also invited 10 professional models to walk the runway in Ladaga's couture creations from Davao.

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Meanwhile, the Supremes celebrated this month's birthday lunch with celebrants Che Alday and Hazel Riguera. The duo arrived in red outfits with matching hair fascinators.

We always look forward to these gatherings — a time to share thoughts on politics, beauty products, health tips and more.

Aside from our regular once-a-month birthday lunch, they often request a second lunch every month. As they say, going out is already a form of exercise, and talking to friends is important for the brain.