Unveiling Filipino brilliance at inaugural FILIPINXT fashion event

From left: Bessie Besana, Rob Mallari-D’Auria, New York Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, Deputy Consul Adrian Cruz and Vice Consul Cathe Aguilar. Photo by Selwyn Tungol

NEW YORK – A groundbreaking event has carved a niche for Filipino talent in the international fashion arena. The inaugural fashion show, dubbed “FILIPINXT,” was held in New York on Sunday to celebrate the heritage, creativity and indomitable spirit of the Filipino community.

The lead-up to the fashion show featured vibrant discussions and inspirational speeches at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center in New York.

During the press conference hosted by Miss Earth 2015 Angelia Ong, New York Consul General Senen T. Mangalile poignantly captured the essence of their partnership, saying, “Our collaboration with Manila to Manhattan underscores our collective ambition to not only spotlight Filipino artistry and craftsmanship but also to support and nurture it, ensuring it finds its rightful place on the global stage.”

His words resonated deeply with the vision of elevating Filipino creativity. The event shone the spotlight on the exquisite artistry and authenticity of designers Bessie Besana, Wilson Limon of NiñoFranco, Veejay Floresca and Michael Leyva, while Kalye NYC, a Filipino culinary gem from the Lower East Side, tantalized taste buds with their authentic flavors, adding a culinary highlight to the evening.

FILIPINXT Co-founders Rob Mallari-D’Auria and Bessie Bessana answering journalists’ questions. Photo by Jervy Santiago

The inspiration behind FILIPINXT is a blend of the gender-neutral suffix ‘-x’, representing inclusivity, and ‘next,’ signifying the forward-thinking approach of the Filipino talent poised to take the international fashion landscape to the next level.

The four pioneering Filipino designers transcended borders and redefined Filipino fashion.

Bessie Besana brings ethereal designs that celebrate the beauty of the human form, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion landscape.

Veejay Floresca, a Manila-born, Los Angeles-based designer, is known for minimalist yet strikingly contemporary creations.

Wilson Limon of NiñoFranco, from the vibrant city of Davao, captivates with innovative reinterpretation of traditional tapestries into modern masterpieces.

Michael Leyva‘s timeless and luxurious pieces have adorned renowned runways worldwide.

FILIPINXT aims to cultivate a meaningful recognition of Filipino creativity in the global fashion narrative. It emerges at a pivotal time when cultural diversity and representation are increasingly acknowledged as keystones of the fashion industry.

FILIPINXT Co-founder and COO Bessie Besana. Photo by Selwyn Tungol

FILIPINXT was both a spectacular showcase of fashion and a heartfelt narrative of Filipino designers, whose recognition on the global stage was well-deserved and long overdue.

The event supported the community’s aspirations to be recognized as influential contributors to the global fashion industry. It celebrated the unique blend of traditional Filipino craftsmanship with contemporary design.

The audience witnessed the rise of Filipino designers on the world stage, championing Filipino heritage while innovating for the future. It was a historical moment, where fashion served as a vibrant expression of culture and identity, paving the way for a new era of Philippine fashion.

For more information about FILIPINXT, please contact [email protected].