The Philippines boasts a rich tapestry of ethnic groups, contributing to a diverse array of cultures within the nation. However, this diversity often remains overlooked in mainstream media, the fashion scene, and the entertainment industry. These negative representations of darker-skinned Filipinos are deeply rooted in the Philippines’ struggle with colorism and the perpetuation of rigid beauty standards, a legacy of centuries of Western colonization.
However, there are signs of progress towards more inclusive representation in the country. Vogue Philippines recently engaged in conversations with four emerging Afro-Filipino models, shedding light on their experiences as individuals of mixed heritage and dark complexion in the fashion industry. Athlete and model Chumason Njigha didn’t imagine he would end up pursuing modeling.
As he grew up self-conscious of his looks due to his features and mixed-race background. “Growing up, I always knew that I stood out from all of my peers,” shares the 24-year-old. “I was tall, and I had dark skin and curly hair.
I honestly felt like a walking exhibit during my childhood.” The half-Nigerian and Filipino model explains that the media’s tendency to only show representation of lighter-skinned people, initially made him weary of tapping into the fashion industry. “Something very prominent in Philippine media is how they favor lighter-skinned people,” he says.
“All the main characters in TV shows and the models in magazines.
