Freeway presents: Levi Celerio

This post couldn't have come at a better time. Happy Independence Day to all Filipinos from all over the world!

I had the chance to witness a magical fusion of art, fashion and music at the launch of Freeway x Levi Celerio National Artist Collector's Series held at The Row last Monday evening, and it was all kinds of amazing.

Known for being a good lyricist, Mr. Levi Celerio's (April 30, 1910 - April 2, 2002) songs cherish life, convey nationalistic sentiments and utter grand philosophies. He wrote more than 4,000 songs, but I am most familiar with Saan Ka Man Naroroon, Kahit Konting Pagtingin, and Sa Ugoy ng Duyan, which never fails to move me whenever I hear it. The song is just so beautiful and enchanting. For my non-Filipino friends and readers, Sa Ugoy ng Duyan is about a child reminiscing his mother's love. I suggest that you look it up and have a listen.

Celerio  is also recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the only man who could play music with a leaf. On October 9, 1997, he was proclaimed National Artist for Music and Literature.  His citation read that his music "was a perfect embodiment of the heartfelt sentiments and valued traditions of the Filipino.” And now, Freeway is honoring him as the first National Artist for Music in the Series this Fall 2012. In the past years, the series featured National Artists Nick Joaquin (Literature), Ang Kiukok (Visual Arts), Jose Garcia Villa (Literature), Ramon Valera (Fashion Design), F. Sionil José (Literature) and Vicente Manansala (Visual Arts). 

During the launch, Asia's Queen of Songs Ms. Pilita Corrales serenaded the audience with songs written by Mr. Levi Celerio.

There was also a quick question and answer portion with Cultural Historian and Music Critic Dr. Antonio Hila, with the event host and Freeway's first ever brand endorser, Giselle Toengi.

Now let's take a peek at the Freeway x Levi Celerio National Artist Collectors’ Series Fall 2012. The stellar collection includes beautiful modern tailored dresses, sublimation print graphic tees, woven tops in chiffons and poplins, sexy printed knit mini dresses and accessories printed with words and lyrics from some of the most famous works of Mr. Celerio. There are also lots of choices for that impressive workwear that lets you stand out from a sea of beiges, blacks, and navy blues.

Off-shoulder sublimation knit top with galaxy print and Ang Daigdig Ko'y Ikaw lyrics (P1,095)

MY FAVORITE. I wish I can buy one before the stocks run out.
Tailored knit jersey printed long sleeved dress with Sa Ugoy ng Duyan lyrics (P1,095)

Long sleeved loose boyfriend shirt in two-tone color chiffon with Ang Pipit lyrics (P1,395)

Sleeveless knit top with pussy bow, print detail and Ang Daigdig Ko'y Ikaw lyrics

ANOTHER FAVORITE.
Sleeveless woven double-breasted tailored dress with Ikaw ang Mahal Ko lyrics

Short sleeved color blocked tailored woven dress with O Maliwanag na Buwan lyrics

Music piece butterfly sleeved top with Sa Ugoy ng Duyan lyrics (P795)

I am currently [eagerly] waiting for payday so I can get a piece or two heehee. The collection has been out since the 5th of the month so I suggest going to the Freeway branch nearest you so you can check these out in person. I am telling you, each piece is a work of art on its own. I would reeeally love to own one.

We were given this harmonica necklace as token for attending the event. The harmonica really works! What a cool and apt gift! Thanks, Freeway!

It was such an honor to have been able to attend the event and bear witness to immense Filipino talent and creativity. Going to the launch renewed my Filipino pride, but it also made me feel a bit sad to see how the quality of song lyrics have dwindled through the years. No one can replace the great Levi Celerio, but I do hope the OPM industry will be blessed with another Filipino with a unique gift and talent for song-writing. Kudos to Freeway for paving the way for the younger generation to know more about our country's rich and colorful heritage by introducing the National Artist Collectors' Series, and thank you for inviting me!

To know more about the collection, visit Freeway's official website. You can also get the freshest updates at their Facebook page and Twitter account.