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Avel Bacudio has never claimed to be a volleyball fan—at least, not until now. “I’m not a fan of volleyball,” he admits, laughing. “But now, bumukas yung utak ko. Every sport that represents the Philippines, especially when we win gold or get recognized, deserves attention.” The shift in perspective has led to a striking collection for Spike for a Cause, a fundraiser for the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship happening in Manila this September.
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Held at the historic Foro de Intramuros, was a series of womenswear looks modeled by none other than members of the Alas Pilipinas women’s national volleyball team. Off the court and onto the runway, the athletes wore their pride with poise.
The collection continues Bacudio’s commitment to championing Filipino craft, this time spotlighting textiles from Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Maranao, and Zamboanga. “Pagnakita mo yung pattern ng mga tela, it represents them,” he says. “And of course, with the Philippine flag colors.”
Bacudio’s partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) plays a key role in reimagining native fabrics. “Not only am I helping the sports community, I’m also helping the weavers,” he says. The collaboration ensures innovation doesn’t outpace tradition—only extends its reach.
His last show, Gintong Sinag, made use of weaving techniques from Luzon and the Visayas. This time, the emphasis falls on the technical intricacy of Mindanaon fabrics, translated into sharp silhouettes and motion-ready tailoring. cropped blazers and sports jackets paneled with prideful weaves. Sheer barongs peek from underneath as undershirts, stitched with subtle references to volleyball’s fluid, high-impact movements.
“May konting sportsluxe,” Bacudio nods, “but more tailored. It’s for their parade.” This identification showcased athleticism made formal, with garments walking the line between ceremony and performance.
Scarves, both solid and patterned, bring movement and softness to the structure as it adds levity without losing edge. It’s this balance that makes Bacudio’s designs resonate, particularly in the context of Filipino sport and spectacle.
Recommended by First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, Bacudio came onboard not just to design, but to amplify a mission: raise the funds needed to support a landmark event on Philippine soil. “They need funds and financial support,” he says. “Hosting the country for that event is big.”
So is the gesture. Through “Spike for a Cause”, Avel Bacudio shows what happens when national pride, grassroots craft, and global ambition serve the same goal. Fashion, here, doesn’t just play dress-up—it joins the game.
Photographed by EXCEL PANLAQUE of KLIQ INC.
