For Roquin-Jon, art isn’t just stitched into fabric, it’s woven into identity. They share how weaving was introduced to them by their third grade teacher at Upi Elementary School Senora Flores. 

“She taught me how to weave a little grasshopper and from that moment I remember looking around the classroom and seeing all the hats and baskets and all the intricately woven things and I was like, what? What do you mean to tell me these are just leaves that you fold? It blew my little mind. Ever since then, it's been a pursuit of joy and happiness,” said Siongco. 

When they were about 13-years old, they moved to Washington state, with no coconut trees, Roquin-Jon had to be creative and improvise.

“I was weaving with paper, weaving on the loom with some yarn and I also got connected to other native weavers and they taught me some of the intricacies of their weaving and learning what a universal language it is,” added Siongco. 

And their creativity blossomed into some incredible designs and craftmanship. 

Where do they draw inspiration?

“What's the feeling I wanna have? When I wear it and when I have people see it. I kind of work backward from there. From fun and whimsical, and campy, or whether it's sensual, feel good in our own skin, that's a kind of energy and design....I have a lot of fun chasing it,” added Siongco. 

Roquin-Jon is preparing to showcase their handmade fashion pieces at the prestigious creative Pacific fashion weekend in Salt Lake City later this month. 

But before they take the stage, they are turning their childhood home into a space of celebration, culture and community support

On Saturday, July 12 from 4 to 10 p.m., friends and fashion lovers alike can stop by Chalan Josen Tan Ana in Yigo to experience the textures of his work in person, create accessories of their own, and maybe even take home a one-of-a-kind piece.

Funds raised will go toward Roquin-Jon’s travel and presentation in Utah, where they say they hope to uplift the beauty of CHamoru craftsmanship, resilience, and expression on an international platform.

Admission is by donation, no one turned away for lack of funds and with a selfie booth, local chesa, groovy cha-cha beats and raffle prizes, it’s more than just fashion. 

It's a fiesta for a purpose.

“I just want to say thank you so much because honestly like any other artist we are just trying to figure it out, there is no playbook on how to be a successful weaver. I appreciate the support of family, friends, loved ones, and community, I wouldn't be where I am without them,” he said. 

From loom to runway, Roquin-Jon is weaving together tradition and ambition and reminding us that Guam’s stories deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated everywhere.

“So this coming Saturday, check my out at my childhood home along Chalan Josen Tan Ana up in Gayinero from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.,” he added. “This fashion fundraiser, that is at my childhood home....help me get to Salt Lake Citty, Utah! I appreciate you guys!”