EVERYONE knows Pepito Albert is one of the top and most gifted designers in the country. So when he set out to do his own jewelry and accessory line to be launched internationally, no one was surprised, rather all said, ?Finally!?

The line, called XVIA3 (pronounced 16-A-3), will have its major launch Spring/Summer 2010. The luxury line of women?s accessories is made out of sterling silver, pure gold and semiprecious stones.

Pepito also mixes selected accessories with crocodile, python or lizard skins. The inspiration behind his designs is from old ethnic or tribal jewelry and costumes. This is truly something to watch out for and for sure, we will see Pepito?s creations in major international publications soon.

Philippine pride

One of the top names in Philippine design is Kenneth Cobonpue. He is acclaimed in New York, Paris, Hong Kong and now, Australia, for his modern design using indigenous materials.

I recently picked up a copy of Belle Magazine, an Australian design/interior magazine and found an ad with his photo on it. The copy says, ?His striking handcrafted pieces have been recognized internationally with awards for design excellence. His work is showcased in world-renowned Nobu restaurants, in the movie ?Oceans 13? and hotels from Beverly Hills to London and Dubai.?

Since the subject of expensive dining has been hogging the news lately, this one promises not to cost $20,000.

Hottest dinner in town

On September 13, some of the top chefs in Manila will get together to create a gastronomic ?feast for a cause?: The Chefs for Education fundraising dinner.

The dinner is part of the Philippine Business for Education (PBED) campaign for education reform. It aims to raise funds for its 1,000 Teachers Program.

The chefs participating are Colin Mckay, Vicky Pacheco, Jessie Sincioco, Myrna Segismundo and Margarita Fores.

Heading the auspicious project are Bart Guingona and PBED?s Chito Salazar.

Top creative minds are also involved, such as Chito Vijandre and Ricky Toledo, who are in charge of overall design; B&C Design and EON for publicity; Monique Villongco for White Space and Bench.

The event is also a denim ball. Guests are expected to come in their best jeans attire.

So if you are in a charitable mode (and you should be) and want to have a gastronomical feast, courtesy of esteemed chefs, then it?s simply a must to be there.

Holiday collection

Meanwhile, Bench will present its Holiday collection soon. It will surely be a feast for the senses. There are only 100 seats left, so please call Caroline Castro (0917-6275167) or Tanya Antonio (8700227 or 0927-7337797); or visit www.pbed.com.