FAME fashion show promotes Filipino culture, raises funds for charity

Miss Philippines USA 2023 winner Mary Jae Felizarta wears a Mel Lagera gown. Photo by Phillip Ner

LOS ANGELES – The Miss Philippines USA Foundation ended the first month of the Year of the Dragon with its Filipino-American Empowerment (FAME) fashion show, advancing its mission to promote Filipino culture and raise funds for charity.

Led by Miss Philippines USA founder Lou Razon and Foundation Project Director Dr. Leo Abelita, the show will benefit schools and underprivileged children in Masbate, Philippines.

This well-attended fashion event, held on Jan. 28 at the Legacy Venue in Glendale, featured former candidates of the Miss Philippines USA pageant, supporters of local fashion and pageants, and Fil-Am business and community leaders.

“We’re proud of our tradition of bringing together the community to honor our Filipino heritage through fashion, and shine the spotlight on the multidimensional beauty of a Filipina,” said Razon, founder of LA-based fashion house Lou Razon Designs. “We’re also grateful to those who supported our charitable cause, helping disadvantaged children in Masbate.”

The FAME benefit fashion show was hosted by (from left) King of Talk Jules Graeser, Miss Ramonne, Emmy-winning KTLA news anchor Cher Calvin and beauty expert Monet Lu. Photo by Romelle Gavin

Event hosts, Fil-Am King of Talk Jules Graeser and singer Miss Ramonne, along with beauty expert Monet Lu and Emmy-winning KTLA news anchor Cher Calvin – who hosted Miss Philippines USA – welcomed the event participants.

Philippine fashion designer and philanthropist Mel Lagera, in collaboration with the nonprofit institution Wisdom Organization, opened the show and presented their vibrant collection of men and women’s apparel crafted with Philippine indigenous fabrics.

Top fashion designer Carmelo “Carl” Andrada, who has dressed many celebrities, showcased his colorful signature designs for men and women using Joy Soo’s Musa fabric, made of banana fiber handwoven by Davao del Norte Correctional Facility inmates.

Celeste Friedman of Bontika unveiled her new collection of women’s apparel –The Black and White Party Edition – for the beach, clubbing, vacationing or staycationing.

Lucky Brides, a bridal shop founded by entrepreneur Angel Bonilla, made its debut showcasing an elegant wedding gown worn by Miss Philippines USA 2023 winner Mary Jae Felizarta.

Razon designed traditional barong Tagalog and evening gowns for notable members of the community who were honored at the benefit fashion show.

Top designer Carl Andrada (center) showcased his signature colorful designs on the runway. Photo by Romelle Gavin

These distinguished men and women, who donned elegant black-and-white garments by Lou Razon, included Dr. Abelita; Carson City Councilmember Arleen Bocatija Rojas; healthcare and pharmaceutical professionals Malou Sanggalang, Janet Blandino, Kris Dolores, Daryle Boyd, Lauren Santiago, Janet Aguilar, Lally Lee and Melanie Barr; real estate executives Jovi Boyd, Norie Rosen and Rizzy Lo; Skincare and Med Spa experts Maria Kristina Enriquez, Aldhea Intia and Geraldine Baker; and fine jewelry authority Carlotta Sarenas.

Chef Johnny Itliong, son of iconic Fil-Am labor and civic rights leader Larry Itliong, and Moises “Jun” Aglipay, Jr. presented the honorees with certificates of recognition from the office of California Assemblymember Mike Gipson.

Among those who walked the runway were 2023 Miss Little Philippines USA Angelina Aguilar, Miss Little Philippines USA Most Photogenic Hazel Sison and Miss Little Top Model Amanda Basco. Angelina and Hazel are part of the lovable Synergy Girl Group.

Among those who walked the runway was 2023 Miss Little Philippines USA Angelina Aguilar. Photo by Romelle Gavin

Attendees of the benefit fashion show also witnessed the launch of Mister Philippines. Singer Savannah Blandino, who performed before the enthusiastic crowd, made her debut as a runway model.

The organizers hope to continue their efforts to help the children and schools of Masbate through benefit fashion events.