QUEEN MAKER
With an endless passion for couture and its high sensibilities, Mak Tumang creates pieces that would make anyone feel like royalty
The whole country was on the edge of their seats last December 17, 2018, not because of a Pacquiao fight but with an equally nerve-wrecking event where beauty, wit and wisdom substitute jabs and knockouts. Our country’s bet, Miss Philippines-Universe, Catriona Gray was the epitomy of beauty and brains and her team was composed of the best of the best, especially her dedicated designer, Mak Tumang. From her “Sinag” dress to her fiery “Mayon” gown that helped her win the Miss Universe 2018 title, Catriona Gray understands well the brilliance of Mak Tumang.
He had always been into the arts and had a flare for the drama. His maximalist inclination is also innate and can be seen, not just in his elegant gowns, but also in his creations for religious statues in his hometown of Pampanga. This eye for beauty and the most minute details elevated his creations. He soon found his signature aesthetic—creating gowns of ultimate romance and elegance that are distinctly Filipino.
Mak Tumang’s process has always been a proof of his dedication to his craft. For his creations for Catriona, he even flew to London to study in Central Saint Martins in order to perfect his skills in couture embroidery. In many of his interviews right after the win, he would mention how he created three prototypes for Catriona, as the fit and form were top priority for him. With all his dresses, he makes sure that every curve is highlighted and every beautiful part is given the spotlight. For Mak, the basis of every creation is to make the wearer look and feel beautiful. Upon donning it, the woman who wears a Mak Tumang exceeds to goddess-like beauty.