CASAn freshies slay the Haraya runway

Photo by Ruzzen Babadilla
Last May 27, 2025, the dimmed Medicine Auditorium was filled with vibrant colors as Communication freshmen graced the Haraya runway in grace and advocacy. The CASAn freshies were tasked to produce national costumes that align with the theme ‘Weaving Hope for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)’. The runway was adorned with creative pieces wrapped with meanings that sent a statement. 


When asked what she was looking forward to seeing on the runway, Faculty-in-charge Ms. Vea Estrada shared that she expects to see artistry and how such visions are brought to life. She added that the fashion show goes beyond the runway; it is an embodiment of how communication theories provide meaning to real-world scenarios and move individuals to take action. She also believed in every student’s potential, encouraging them that they have a space for the diverse communication field.


Each group may have one or two representatives that will model the national costume. The costume must adhere to the theme by incorporating Philippine symbolical elements into the SDG of the group’s choice. It should be made out of recycled, reused, or repurposed materials. The judges evaluated the costume based on the criteria below:


  • Concept and SDG application: 40%

  • Creativity and craftsmanship (materials used): 30%

  • Presentation and delivery: 30%

TOTAL: 100%


Among the judges were Communication faculty members Inst. Dionar Acosta, MA, Mr. Francis Quilantang, MA, Asst. Prof. Beyan Hagos, PHD, and Literature Research Coordinator Inst. Kimberly Quilantang, MA.


The observable common themes of national costumes were connected to SDGs 14: Life below Water, and 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Three renditions of the Scales of Justice walked the runway, each cementing a mark in every stride. Politically inspired costumes commanded the stage, leaning on darker hues. Several costumes with iridescent, aquatic elements in various colors illuminated the stage in connection with SDG 14. Some groups explored the natural path, integrating SDGs 10, 13, and 15 altogether, donning the wildlife appearance. In a remarkable display of collaborative individuality, all groups showcased their interpretations through varied and imaginative symbolism. They skillfully wove their own narrative, successfully distinguishing themselves to stand out while standing together. Beyond modeling the costumes, each group orchestrated dynamic presentations that added depth and brought their designs to life. Supplemented by compelling narrations, it intertwined layers of context and insights to convey deeper stories behind each costume.


Photo by Ruzzen Babadilla


After all the strutting, Shierrah Sumacot of MusiCASA performed an intermission number to the tunes of ‘Never Enough’. It drew enthusiastic cheers from the audience who are also eager to determine the winners.


The judges, alongside Ms. Vea Estrada, were called onstage to announce the awardees of the fashion show. The awardees were as follows:


  • Most Entertaining Presentation: Ralf Martin Escio and Khaylie Rozaldo (1COM4)

  • Most Creative Presentation: Ralf Martin Escio and Khaylie Rozaldo, Jelo Blanco and Sean Vellarde (1COM4)

  • Best SDG 2nd runner-up: Ashnelle Azshara (1COM1)

  • Best SDG 1st runner-up: Jelo Blanco and Sean Vellarde (1COM4)

  • Best SDG Winner: Hanna Perez (1COM1)

  • Best in National Costume 5th runners-up: Angela Maghanoy (1COM3), Nathan Cuya (1COM3), and Juliana Mikaela Corrales (1COMP)

  • Best in National Costume 4th runners-up: Shielou Gumapac (1COM2), Ralf Martin Escio and Khaylie Rozaldo (1COM4)

  • Best in National Costume 3rd runner-up: Angel Tapang (1COM2), Fender Bungubung (1COM3), Patricia Testigo (1COMP)

  • Best in National Costume 2nd runner-up: Aleeya Sundiam (1COM2)

  • Best in National Costume 1st runners-up: Trinity Jean Briones (1COM1), Kenneth Aguila (1COM4)

  • Best in National Costume Winner: Emery Jenelle Tabuan (1COMP)


Awards for the Freshie Film Fest were presented to freshmen class recipients. The list below are the awards per block:


  • Best Board Design Award: 1COM1

  • People’s Choice Award and Socially Transformative Award: 1COM2

  • Best and Brightest Award: 1COM3

  • Redefined, Creativity, and Versatility Award, and Best Props Award: 1COM4


The fashion show closed with celebrations as Ms. Vea Estrada delivered good news that sounded music to the freshmen’s ears. It was an event that embodied the characteristics of the communication field—offering fresh perspectives from creative expressions. The event concluded on a high note, only fitting for the program that is home to the best and the brightest set of students.



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