Dreams rooted in passion and culture can flourish beyond borders; this is what the talented Sukarno Gabriel has proven to himself and his community. Despite earning a degree in Accountancy from Masters Technological Institute of Mindanao (MTIM) in Iligan City and working as a Provincial Senior Bookkeeper for the Ministry of Social Services and Development – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MSSD-BARMM), Sukarno never let go of his dream to make a mark in the fashion industry.

What began as a college hobby—creating designs for a friend who became his first paying client—has grown into Gab Couture, a self-titled brand that blends minimalist aesthetics with Meranao cultural elements. With a vision to modernize traditional attire while honoring its heritage, Sukarno is determined to bring Bangsamoro fashion to the national and global stage, inspiring others to pursue their passions no matter the obstacles.

Let’s dive in into his story in this interview.

1. Please give us a brief intro about yourself. Who is the person behind Gab Couture?

I am Sukarno Gabriel, 35 years old, was born in and hails from the simple municipality of Malabang, Lanao del Sur. Currently, I am a freelance designer based in the province of Lanao Del Sur. It has always been my dream to be fashion icon ever since I started way back in college and today I am determined to chasing my way to the endless street of the fashion industry. With regards to my education, I took up Bachelor of Science and Accountancy in Masters Technological Institute of Mindanao (MTIM) Iligan City, a program that is far different from my passion. Currently, I am connected with the Ministry of Social Services Department – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MSSD – BARMM) under Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) MSSD-BARMM. I am working as Provincial Senior Bookkeeper and serving my fellow Meranaws in the Lanao Sur 2-B.

2. How did you start as a fashion designer?

Way back in college, there was this one time when I was asked to make a creation for one client who is my friend up until today. I was still a student then when I had my first ever client who paid me for my creation. This ignited my passion after realizing that this job could help me sustain my needs while I am pursuing my college degree, hence, I took the job so seriously. As a freelance, the number of my clients grew which led me to establish my self-titled brand, Gab Couture. Gab is derived from my surname which my friends in college fondly call me. Then, the rest is history.

3. If you were not in this profession, what would Sukarno Gabriel be? And if you can choose an alternative profession what would it be and why?

I think I would probably be in a corporate world, an accountant or working as a finance manager. I am a graduate of accountancy and still not have taken the licensure examination. I still have the plans to pursue one of my goals which is to become a Certified Public Accountant and snatched that CPA title after my name. In Sha Allah!

4. What is your design identity?

What is a Sukarno Gabriel piece signature?
My design is a combination of aesthetic and minimalist themes.

5. Please tell us about the fashion scene of your region and what are the elements of Moro fashion that the Philippines and the world should know about?

Growing up in a very conservative environment, the fashion and design did not exist way back then. Especially those designs that usually flaunts statements. It was until the advent and rise of young Meranao fashion designers who revolutionalized the Meranao fashion from semi-formal, formal, and corporate including practical occasions. Our culture is rich in terms of lifestyle, dress, which usually incorporates our traditional emblems including textiles, okirs, weddings, and the Darangen, a written and chanted folk tales that depicts our history and modern traditions. I love the fact that we can incorporate our culture into our designs and create a look that represents us. We modernize it in a way that we can still wear our traditional attire accentuated with both fads and classic textiles. How wonderful a design can be when fashion meets culture.

6. How do you see your brand in the next 5 years? What are your aspirations?

With regards to what I wanted to achieve more, I am thinking of transcending beyond what my Bangsamoro region can offer. To represent the Bangsamoro in the national fashion stage, would always be on top of my list. I hope that my brand can be recognized not just in my region and in the country but also across the globe.

7. If you could choose a celebrity endorser for your brand who would it be?

The Meranao women in my community are the epitome of my brand. My clients are my endorsers. I let them testify on both the quality of my service and the experience they feel when they wear my creations.

8. Who is your favorite designer? And why?

I am a huge fan of our local designers including Rajo Laurel, Francis Libiran, Cary Santiago, and Michael Cinco. They are genius!

9. Do you get involve in the production process? What is your favorite part in making the dress/outfit?

Yes of course, I am very hands on to my work, making sure that the whole process is fully monitored up until they are finished.

10. What is your favorite piece of advice from someone or you can give to someone?

Always follow your heart and do what makes you happy. Never let anyone stop you in pursuing your ultimate dream. It may be hard in the beginning but just trust the process. It is always worth the risk.

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