Architect turned designer JJ Aquino gives us a narrative of war

Architect turned fashion designer JJ Aquino creates a powerful collection honoring the lives of Marawi survivors

Not too long ago, blood was shed in a province Philippines. The violent conflict took away the lives and homes of the innocent. It was known as the Siege of Marawi, a long armed clash between the government and militants rebel groups, lasted five months. But how do you survive after a war? What does life offer you after everything else is taken away? This is the journey that designer JJ Aquino chose to embark on. An architect bred from UP Diliman, he always knew he wanted to explore fashion despite 14 years of being rooted in the trade. JJ recently learned that fashion has been ingrained in his DNA, discovering that his great grandmother was a highly regarded weaver from Abra who could trace her lineage to two tribal groups belonging to the Itneg. “I wanted the collection to have a purpose so I partnered with the non-profit foundation Sinagtala. ph, to create custom made and exclusive handwoven textiles made by the weavers from Marawi, who despite experiencing the horrors of the war, were still able to create such magnificent textiles, which are works of art on their own,” he shares. The process was emotional and molded his vision as designer. “I aptly entitled the collection ‘Boloto Ko Bel,’ which means ‘Bahaghari sa Usok’ or ‘Rainbow amidst the Smoke’ in Maranao dialect,” JJ reveals. The debut collection may be four pieces, but its story knows no bounds. The looks start with dark colors, with some geometric details mimicking a protective ensemble and end with a whimsical, colorful outfit, symbolizing hope in chaos.