Ross Butler and Timothy Granaderos reunited at the fourth annual Filipino Forces event in Hollywood, a dinner that gathered prominent Filipinos working across fashion, entertainment, and technology. The guest list included “Chief of War” actor Brandon Finn, DreamWorks Animation writer and director Januel Mercado, “The Pitt” star Kristin Villanueva, and “Project Runway” season 21 winner Veejay Floresca.
The evening included a get-to-know-you moment in which Villanueva, who plays Princess on the HBO series, spoke about expanding her career beyond acting. She said she has worked as an actress for nearly 20 years and has long wanted to learn how to produce.
R’Bonney Gabriel, the model, fashion designer, and Miss Universe winner, also drew attention after announcing her appearance on the next season of “Project Runway.” Gabriel said she had spent 16 years sewing and had long admired the series, calling the opportunity a dream come true. She also shared that she recently moved to Los Angeles and is focused on growing her fashion brand, which she described as still small.
The event was hosted by Filipino Forces Feast and Fiesta, with Sampa curating a Filipino-forward culinary experience for attendees. The host committee included Filipino Forces founder Rembrandt Flores, Raissa Gerona of REVOLVE Group, Lena Salatinjants of Nike Celebrity + Entertainment Marketing, Marisa Pizarro of MWA Music and Beatclub, and journalist Melissa Magsaysay, host of the Los Angeles Times’ “Live + Well” podcast.
Founded by Flores in 2023, Filipino Forces is an annual celebration of Filipino excellence held during AANHPI Heritage Month in May. The organization aims to highlight the next generation of Filipino leaders, strengthen meaningful connections, and provide a lasting platform for representation, pride, and cultural visibility.
