A garbage-and-plastic costume with an alligator figure, symbolizing corruption and political issues, won the Eco-Fashion Contest at Calape National High School’s Math and Science Month culmination on October 3, 2025.
The winning piece was crafted by Grade 11 students Jun Lee Degamo, Francheska Mag-usara, Victoria Juson, Adrea Masas, and Alyssa Lupera, who joined at the last minute and completed it in two days after being encouraged by a teacher.
“We unexpectedly joined the competition at the last minute after a teacher insisted, despite our hectic schedules. 2 days of work, we we’re unsure, unconfident, and down. Despite everything, we serve to create awareness of the issues our country continues to face,” the designers said in a statement.
The group explained that the gown’s recycled materials symbolized “trashy governance,” while the alligator represented the corrupt traits often associated with some leaders.
“Sa akong pag rampa kanina nabati nako nga dili lang gown ang akong gi dala kundi simbolo sa pag antus sa mga taw tungod sa corruption ug proud ko nga bisan simple nga paagi mapakita nako ang tinuod nga sitwasyon sa atung nasod,” said Princess Ashley Ponla, the model who carried the winning piece.
(When I walked on the runway earlier, I felt that I wasn’t just carrying a gown but a symbol of the people’s suffering because of corruption. I am proud that, even in a simple way, I was able to show the true situation of our country.)
Spectators praised the entry for its strong message, with one remarking, “The winning piece showed how student creativity can highlight national issues, proving that fashion can also serve as a statement for awareness and accountability.
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