Jaehwa Bernardo

A Filipino community in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia find a sense of belonging through the fashion-driven movement Runway Middle East

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In Runway Middle East, Filipinos find sense of belonging through fashion

ABS-CBN News

<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17815143833721000069377.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/>A Filipino community in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia find a sense of belonging through the fashion-driven movement Runway Middle East.</div>RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — In a world where fashion is often associated with specific standards, ideal body types, and conventional definitions of beauty, one Filipino community organization in Riyadh is proving that confidence, self-expression and individuality are what truly make a person shine.Established in 2022, Runway Middle East (RME) was founded on a simple yet powerful belief: fashion is for everybody.While the fashion industry has long been known for its emphasis on certain looks, heights, and physical attributes, the passionate individuals behind RME envisioned something different — a platform where every Filipino, regardless of age, size, background, or experience, can confidently step into the spotlight and celebrate who they are.What began as a shared dream among a group of Filipino designers, makeup artists, event coordinators, creatives, and fashion enthusiasts has now evolved into one of the most inspiring community-driven fashion movements in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.For RME, the runway is more than a stage. It is a space where stories are told, confidence is built, and dreams are realized.Many participants who once doubted themselves have found the courage to step forward and walk proudly before an audience. Others discovered hidden talents, forged lifelong friendships, and gained a renewed appreciation for their uniqueness.The organization&#x27;s mission goes beyond showcasing fashion. It seeks to remind people that beauty comes in many forms and that everyone deserves an opportunity to feel celebrated and valued.<div>OPEN TO ALL</div>One of the things that makes RME truly unique is its commitment to inclusivity. Unlike traditional fashion platforms that often focus on a specific demographic, RME has opened its doors to people of all ages, backgrounds, and professions.Over the years, the runway has welcomed participants as young as 14 years old and as seasoned as 63 years old, proving that confidence has no age limit. Whether young or young at heart, every individual who steps onto the runway is given the same opportunity to shine, inspire, and be celebrated.RME has also become a platform where professions and social status take a back seat to passion and self-expression.Participants have come from all walks of life — from domestic helpers, tea boys, electricians, bellboys, beauticians, and administrative assistants to law students, nurses, dentists, entrepreneurs, and professionals from various fields.This message is best reflected in the voices of the participants themselves.Nacel Pragas, a Season 4 contestant and a bellboy working in one of the hotels in Riyadh, said: “Masarap po sa feeling na na-appreciate kami ng mga tao. Dito po pantay-pantay kami sa tingin ng lahat.”Meanwhile, Vilma Fayligna,the oldest contestant of Season 3 at 63, shared her heartfelt experience: “Sinong mag-aakala na sa age kong 63 eh makakasali pa ako sa mga ganitong contest. Ang sarap lang sa feeling.”Adding to this inspiring narrative is Dr. Mary Grace Vigilla, a dental research specialist who weighed 93 kilos when she joined Season 2. She proudly shared her journey of self-acceptance and empowerment: “I want to break the chubby stereotype, at saka naisip ko na all shapes can own the ramp and I wanna inspire others din to embrace their curves.”<div>CHALLENGES</div>Despite its inspiring mission, RME and its participants have not been immune to challenges. Over time, they have also faced online criticism and bashing, particularly regarding appearances and body image.However, for them, such experiences only strengthened their resolve. They believe that fashion should be celebrated by everybody, regardless of how society defines beauty.They also recognize that criticism and bashing will always be part of the journey, especially when challenging long-standing norms.Instead of being discouraged, they continue to rise above negativity, using it as fuel to further promote inclusivity, confidence, and self-expression.Now with its fourth season, RME stands as a testament to what passion and community spirit can achieve.

In a world where fashion is often associated with specific standards, ideal body types, and conventional definitions of beauty, one Filipino community organization in Riyadh is proving that confidence, self-expression and individuality are what truly make a person shine.

In a world where fashion is often associated with specific standards, ideal body types, and conventional definitions of beauty, one Filipino community organization in Riyadh is proving that confidence, self-expression and individuality are what truly make a person shine.

In Runway Middle East, Filipinos find sense of belonging through fashion

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In Runway Middle East, Filipinos find sense of belonging through fashion

ABS-CBN News,

JP Aleta

Published June 15, 2026 06:38 PM PHT

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overseas Filipino

Runway Middle East

Saudi Arabia

Riyadh

fashion

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