Silk butterfly sleeves fluttered under string lights, Tagalog melodies drifted through the air. J. Rey, Guapdad 4000, girl group H3Rizon, and Filipino leaders gathered at West Hollywood's Wheelhouse for the 4th annual Filipino Forces Feast and Fiesta.
The lineup brought together J. Rey (who's been touring as the Black Eyed Peas' lead singer since 2018), Bay Area rapper Guapdad 4000, girl group H3Rizon, rapper-producer P-Lo, actress Kristin Villanueva from The Pitt, and Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Nola. Guests wore reimagined Barong Tagalogs and terno silhouettes that announced high-fashion Filipino pride.
Chef Josh Espinosa from Sampa delivered a four-course feast featuring calamansi ricotta and key-lime pie adorned with 24-karat gold leaf.
Founder Rembrandt Flores, wearing a custom barong pinned with a Jewelmer brooch shaped like the Philippines, explained the event's purpose: "What began as a dinner to bring together Filipinos I admire has evolved into a platform that celebrates the extraordinary impact in our community." He told Rolling Stone that Filipino Forces is about "honoring those who have opened doors, amplifying those creating the future, and reminding the world that Filipino culture is one of the most influential and dynamic forces shaping global conversation today."
For J. Rey, the night held particular weight. After years touring the globe with will.i.am, Apl.de.ap, and Taboo, she returned to celebrate her San Pedro roots.
