New York PCG Showcases Filipino-American Creativity in Likha at Kultura Fashion Gallery

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)
NEW YORK, 27 October 2025 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York officially launched the exhibition, “Likha at Kultura: Filipino-American Fashion Creatives Gallery,” on 27 October 2025. The gallery launch, held in the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center, celebrates the profound artistry, cultural pride, and innovative spirit of Filipino designers and creatives. 

The exhibition, which will be on view until 31 December 2025, highlights a diverse range of creations that blend traditional Filipino heritage with modern design, reinforcing the Philippines’ reputation for world-class talent in the creative sector. 

Among the designers whose works were featured during the launch include the following New York-based Filipino-American designers: Josie Natori, founder of The Natori Company, known for blending Eastern artistry with Western sophistication; Rafe Totengco, founder of RAFE New York, whose handbags and accessories incorporate elements inspired by his Filipino heritage; Bessie Besana, co-founder of Filipinxt New York, recognized for contemporary designs that combine structured silhouettes with fluid movement; and Veejay Floresca, the first Filipino transgender woman to win Project Runway, celebrated for blending traditional Filipino craftsmanship with modern design.
A glimpse of the creations featured in Likha at Kultura: Filipino-American Fashion Creatives Gallery, showcasing the rich narratives of identity, migration, and cultural heritage by Filipino-American fashion designers Josie Natori, Rafe Totengco, Bessie Besana, and Veejay Flores. (Photo by Nikka Arenal)
In his welcome remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile highlighted the exhibition’s strategic value in promoting Filipino talent and strengthening the influence of Filipino-American designers in the international fashion industry.
Featured Filipino-American designers, Josie Natori, Rafe Totengco, Bessie Besana, and Veejay Floresca delivering their inspirational messages during the program. (Photos by Nikka Arenal)
The launch, a key component of the Consulate’s initiatives for Filipino American History Month, was attended by a diverse audience of community members and local fashion professionals.  The exhibition aims to celebrate the artistic talent and economic contributions of Filipino-American creatives, amplify the community’s visibility, and tell compelling stories of the Filipino-American experience through fashion.

The Consulate also extended congratulations to Veejay Floresca for her recent victory on Project Runway, citing her success as a victory for the entire Filipino creative community. END