When Mak Tumang creates, he doesn’t just design. He conjures brilliance that feels almost celestial. And for Miss Universe Philippines Ahtisa Manalo, he reached back to the light that shaped him. He returned to Pampanga, to its people, and to the Giant Lantern Festival that has defined
Kapampangan artistry for generations.
During the Miss Universe preliminaries, the world witnessed the reveal of Festejada, a national costume rooted in heritage and fueled by the radiance of hometown craftsmanship.
Tumang was quick to honor the community that helped bring his vision to life, expressing gratitude to Fernandinos whose artistry and references guided his process.
“To Eric Quiwa and Gerald Gloton, thank you for your generosity in sharing the research materials that helped me conceptualize the national costume,” Tumang said.
THE GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL AS THE SOUL OF THE DESIGN
Every December, Pampanga becomes a kingdom of yuletide lights. Giant parols whirl and shimmer, scattering patterns across the night sky like swirling constellations. From this breathtaking spectacle came the foundation of Ahtisa’s skirt.
More than 65,000 hand-cut petals were meticulously crafted and sewn into three glowing tiers inspired by signature elements of the Kapampangan lantern. These represent the Tambur, the Siku Siku, and the Palimbun. Together they form a shimmering tribute to the precision, beauty, and genius of the Giant Lantern Festival.
AHTISA MANALO AS THE LIVING FESTIVAL
When Ahtisa steps onto the Miss Universe stage, she carries far more than a costume. She brings with her the splendor of a nation that celebrates life with devotion and joy. Every step channels the glow of a thousand lanterns. Every turn radiates the warmth of Filipino hospitality. Every gesture echoes the grace of María Clara. She becomes the festival itself.
With this fashionable brilliance stands Mak Tumang, the Kapampangan visionary whose genius continues to shape how the world sees Filipino artistry. Through his hands, the Giant Lantern Festival leapt from Pampanga’s night sky and illuminated the universe — a beacon of culture, pride, and the boundless imagination of Filipinos.
