Taytay Takes the Spotlight: A Visionary Alliance for the Fashion Capital of the Philippines

February 27, 2026 - Taytay, Rizal, Philippines

In a dazzling convergence of brilliance, culture, and ambition, Atty. Elaine Antonio Bordeaux and Reynold Centillo Tenerife—fondly known in the fashion world as Nhoy Tenerife—met in the thriving garments hub of Taytay to ignite a bold national vision: the rise of the Fashion Capital of the Philippines.

Facilitated by the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (LEDIPO) headed by Cristina "Chin" Gonzales Focal Person, and strongly supported by Mayor Allan De Leon and LEDIPO OIC Dustin Regalado, the high-level meeting was nothing short of historic. It was a celebration of Filipino excellence—where global artistry met grassroots mastery.

A Meeting of Icons

Atty. Elaine Bordeaux is a force of nature—Filipino American author, celebrated sculptor, humanitarian advocate, and U.S. immigration lawyer. Her monumental tributes to Filipino heroes, including the iconic Dr. Jose Rizal Legacy Sculpture in Colorado Springs, have elevated Filipino heritage onto the world stage. She embodies transformation, leadership, and the power of culture as a catalyst for global recognition.

Across the table sat Nhoy Tenerife, Taytay’s pride and one of Rizal’s most sought-after fashion designers. From humble beginnings as a dressmaker and pattern maker in 2005 to becoming an internationally recognized couturier, Nhoy’s creations have graced pageants, fashion runways, and global platforms. His gowns are not merely garments—they are statements of elegance, identity, and Filipino craftsmanship.

Together, they represent a seamless fusion of art, advocacy, and industry.

From Garments Capital to Fashion Capital

For decades, Taytay has proudly carried the title Garments Capital of the Philippines—a powerhouse of local manufacturing, entrepreneurship, and textile production. But this meeting signals something bigger.

The proposed Fashion Capital of the Philippines project envisions:

 Elevating local designers to national and international platforms
 Strengthening the garment industry through innovation and branding
 Creating fashion tourism events, exhibitions, and global showcases
 Providing mentorship and leadership training for aspiring creatives
 Attracting investors and strategic partnerships

With LEDIPO steering economic strategy and the unwavering support of Mayor Allan De Leon, the initiative aligns creativity with economic growth—turning fashion into a pillar of sustainable development.

Leadership that Inspires

Under the dynamic leadership of Mayor Allan De Leon and the proactive coordination of LEDIPO OIC Dustin Regalado, Taytay continues to position itself as a municipality that values innovation, culture, and opportunity. Their support underscores a powerful truth: fashion is not only art—it is livelihood, legacy, and leadership.

A Movement Begins

This was not just a meeting. It was a moment. A spark. A declaration that Filipino creativity deserves the global spotlight.

With Atty. Elaine Bordeaux’s international reach and advocacy, combined with Nhoy Tenerife’s mastery of couture and deep roots in the local industry, the dream of transforming Taytay into the Fashion Capital of the Philippines feels not only possible—but inevitable.

The future of Philippine fashion may very well rise from the sewing tables, ateliers, and visionary conversations that began right here in Taytay.

And when history looks back, it may say:
This was where the renaissance began. 

By: Meme Borja