A deep dive into Ashley Subijano Montenegro’s ‘Tubbataha Reef’ Eco Dress
With the pressure of securing a back-to-back win at Miss Eco International, Ashley Subijano Montenegro is definitely in full-game mode. Putting her best foot forward in every aspect of the competition, this is clearly evident during the pageant’s preliminaries.
Held last March 1, this crucial event will aid in selecting the Top 20 semifinalists for the finals. As one of its criteria, the Eco Dress preliminary judging incorporates sustainability and cultural beauty.
Looking like an absolute vision, Ashley came out majestic in her eco dress designed by Ehrran Montoya. Taking inspiration from one of our country’s treasured national wonders, the dress also pays tribute to the Tubbataha Reefs.
A deep dive into Ashely Subijano’s ‘Tubbataha Reef’ Eco Dress
In a social media post, Montoya explains the meaning behind the creation. Made entirely out of recycled materials, the dress also features a variety of raw materials and fabric scraps.
Citing that: “We use castoff papers from our electric pleated fabrics as the base and paint with vibrant hues to create combinations to go along with the textures of leftover textiles are also attached with draped plastics adorned with 3D printed stems to do an impression of a coral reef. It is embellished with ceramic pearls around it for a total under-the-sea visual.“
Known as the Tubbataha Natural Park, this marine and bird sanctuary is located off the coast of Palawan. Due to overfishing and disruption brought by local fishers, the reefs have been facing a great deal of mistreatment over the years. This includes atolls being destroyed as a result of unlawful fishing methods like cyanide and dynamite fishing.
Declaring it a protected area in 1988, the preservation of the area has resulted in active and healthy aquatic life.
A dress that isn’t only beautiful but also teaches us an important lesson. By reducing our waste through practices like recycling, then we can contribute to the growth and prosperity of our environment.
Miss Eco International 2023 will stage its coronation night on March 3 at the Triumph Luxury Hotel in Cairo. 41 eco-goddesses are vying for the crown, hoping to succeed outgoing titleholder, Kathleen Paton of the Philippines.
Best of luck to you, Ashley! May you achieve the impossible and bring the crown home!
