Cultural Triumphs Mark Filipino American History Month In New York

NEW YORK—The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in New York officially launched the “Likha at Kultura: Filipino-American Fashion Creatives Gallery” on 27 October 2025, a key highlight of its Filipino American History Month initiatives. The launch, held in the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center, celebrated the profound artistry and innovative spirit of the diaspora's creative talent.

Consul General Senen T. Mangalile (second to the right) with fashion designers Rafe Totengco (rightmost), Veejay Floresca (second from left), and Bessie Besana (leftmost) at the vernissage of Likha at Kultura: Fashion Creatives Gallery. (Photo by Nikka Arenal)

Featured Designers and Exhibition Goals

The exhibition, which will be on view until 31 December 2025, showcases a diverse range of creations that masterfully blend traditional Filipino heritage with modern design. This collection aims to reinforce the Philippines’ reputation for world-class talent while achieving three core goals: celebrating artistic talent, acknowledging the economic contributions of Filipino-American creatives, and telling compelling stories of the Filipino-American experience through fashion.

The gallery features several prominent New York-based Filipino-American designers, including:

Josie Natori: Founder of The Natori Company, known for blending Eastern artistry with Western sophistication.

Rafe Totengco: Founder of RAFE New York, whose accessories incorporate elements inspired by Filipino heritage.

Bessie Besana: Co-founder of Filipinxt New York, recognized for combining structured silhouettes with fluid movement.

Featured Filipino-American designers, Josie Natori, Rafe Totengco, Bessie Besana, and Veejay Floresca delivering their inspirational messages during the program. (Photos by Nikka Arenal)

Special Recognition for a Historic Victory

The launch event, which drew a diverse audience of community members and local fashion professionals, served as a platform for more than just the exhibition. Consul General Senen T. Mangalile emphasized the exhibit’s strategic value in strengthening the influence of Filipino-American designers in the international fashion industry.

Adding to the celebratory mood, the Consulate extended special congratulations to designer Veejay Floresca for her recent, high-profile victory. Floresca, celebrated for blending traditional Filipino craftsmanship with modern design, was hailed as the first Filipino transgender woman to win Project Runway, with the Consulate citing her success as a victory for the entire Filipino creative community.

Photo courtesy: Nikka Arenal via Ph Consulate General, New York, USA