Alexia Núñez (center) has launched her own clothing line. Josh Mercado

Alexia Núñez, a Brazilian actress and model who was part of the hit teleserye "Batang Quiapo" last year, recently launched her own clothing line.

Her first collection under Alexia Núñez Designs is made completely of recycled materials. 

In an event attended by entertainment press and fashion bloggers, Núñez displayed her creations, including streetwear made of reused denim and summer ensembles in breathable fabric, as worn by models from diverse backgrounds.

According to the Brazilian artist, who fell in love with Filipino culture years ago, each piece represents freedom, love, and environmental responsibility.

A look at Núñez's first collection. Josh Mercado

"Before coming to the Philippines, everything I heard was about conflict, corruption, and poverty. But once I sat down, I saw culture, beautiful people with beautiful smiles, and resilience. Even now, despite language barriers, the Philippines motivates me to be a better human being," she said. 

"While safeguarding Mother Earth, this brand seeks to motivate the future generation to support local brands instead of fast fashion brands," Núñez added. "I want the clothing to be wearable. I want people to enjoy wearing the pieces while also knowing that they are helping the environment. If we continue to embrace fast fashion, our local brands will become hopeless."

The Brazilian model also emphasized the value of ethical craftsmanship and sustainability, as well as engaging with indigenous communities and adopting eco-conscious design.

During the fashion brand launch, members of the T'boli people performed their traditional dance and music in support of Núñez. 

The T'boli perform during the launch of Núñez's clothing line. Josh Mercado

"Sobrang thankful kami kay Ms. Alexia na pumunta pa talaga sa lugar namin. Isang pribilehiyo na pumunta sila sa lugar namin. Ang programang ito ay magbibigay ng liwanag sa pag-asa na hinahangad namin. Mabilis man ang technology, sana kasama pa rin kaming mga indigenous people, at sana ipakita natin na minamahal pa rin natin ang katutubong Pilipino," their leader said. 

Núñez, for her part, believes that communities such as the T'boli should be acknowledged. 

"They must be acknowledged. They must be respected. I am doing something for them, especially women, by doing these pieces that talk so much about them. Without the participation of the T'boli group, who taught me the fundamentals of culture and life, it would not have been possible," she said. 

"I understand that despite our differences, we are all united as human beings. Our love serves as our compass, and I hope that when things go tough, we stick together. My goal is to support vulnerable groups like the T'boli, and this extends beyond my fashion brand," she ended.

WIth her brand, Núñez hopes to promote Filipino workmanship to the global market and lift the local fashion industry. 

All of the items in her debut collection will soon be sold in stores.