On October 30, 2022, Nike hosted a special "Filipino Force" event that brought together Fil-Am creatives, advocates, and entrepreneurs within the fashion, art, food, music, and entertainment industries in celebration of Filipino American History Month and the 40th Anniversary of the Nike Air Force 1.
Notable guests wore traditional Filipino attire which many took a uniquely modern approach to styling. DJ Noodles, Rappers P-Lo and Guapdad 4000, Kim Saira (Digital Creator + Movement Healer), Christine Delostrinos (Public Policy Advocate), and Marisa Pizarro (Def Jam Recordings SVP A&R) all wore custom pieces by Toronto-based brand Vinta Gallery.
Other key guests included Aleali May (Model / Designer / Stylist), Kiana Vee + Jules Aurora (Singer / Songwriters), Carlyle Nuera (Lead Designer for Barbie at Mattel Inc.), Marielle Sales + Mal Tayag (Sari Sari Studio Founders), Ann Buenaobra (Model + Beauty Marketer), Alyssa Rara Luna (Director of Influencer Marketing Savage x Fenty), Aaron Carmack (Producer + DJ), Lesha + Massiah (Careless Music / Artist) and Brian Puspos (Dancer + Choreographer)
Award-winning chef Phillip Esteban, hospitality group Open Gym SD, and Samahan Dance Troup curated a multi course, multi-sensory dinner experience taking guests through the dynamic history and future of Filipino culture. Each course was served separately and paired with a traditional dance representing different regions of the Philippines.
In true Filipino fashion, the night ended with dancing and karaoke. For the after party, Fil-Am owned Wanderlust Creamery provided ice cream with Filipino-inspired flavors including Halo Halo, Turon, and Coconut Sampaguita. Kasama Rum, which was created by Alexandra Dorda, the daughter of Belvedere’s co-founder, provided specialty cocktails that were inspired by three points in Fil-Am history, aptly named Morro Bay, St. Malo, and The Bird Boys.
Check out the photos from the event below (portrait photos by Ja Tecson / event photos by Raymond Eugenio).
