Rembrandt Flores on why he founded ‘Filipino Forces’ and his dream for it

Rembrandt Flores

What does it mean to be Filipino in Hollywood? Does it mean one has to assimilate to be accepted? Or does it mean being proud of one’s culture and heritage, and allowing that identity to flourish?

Filipino American Rembrandt Flores, a brand amplification architect known for transforming companies into culture-shaping, in-demand brands, has long wanted to bring Filipino talents, creatives and innovators together in one space. That vision gave rise to Filipino Forces.

In an exclusive email interview, Flores spoke about the personal realization that led him to create the platform.

Why did you found Filipino Forces?

“I founded Filipino Forces from a very personal realization: despite the depth of Filipino talent shaping culture across industries, our stories were often fragmented, under-amplified or celebrated in isolation rather than collectively. I wanted to change that.”

“Filipino Forces was born out of a desire to create a space where excellence isn’t just acknowledged, it’s experienced. A space where Filipino leaders, creators and innovators across entertainment, fashion, business, technology and beyond could come together not only to celebrate one another but also to see themselves reflected in a larger, unified narrative of impact.”

“At its core, Filipino Forces is about cultural amplification. It’s about shifting perception, from representation as an afterthought to recognition as a driving force in global culture. It’s also about responsibility: ensuring that the next generation doesn’t have to search for proof of what’s possible, because they can see it clearly, powerfully and in one room.”

Flores has driven marketing, public relations and experiential strategies for global companies including Nike, Tinder, Electronic Arts, Oakley, Diageo, LG Mobile, Cameo, Away, Ubisoft, Pro Padel League Narwal and, most recently, Flip.shop. He partners with founders and high-growth companies to elevate brand influence, unlock premium collaborations and build cultural relevance.

Together with Raissa Gerona, Lena Salatinjants, Marissa Pizarro, Melissa Magsaysay and Shay Mitchell, Flores will host the 4th Annual Filipino Forces Feast & Fiesta, powered by Nike, Revolve and Jewelmer, on Thursday, May 28, at a private residence in West Hollywood.

The invitation-only event, held in honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, will begin with Feast, a curated Filipino-forward culinary experience by Sampa. The dinner will bring together leading figures across entertainment, business, technology, philanthropy, fashion, sports and culture for an intimate celebration of Filipino excellence.

The celebration will continue with Fiesta, an elevated soirée uniting Filipino tastemakers, influential voices, creatives and allies for a night of connection, culture and community.

This year’s invited celebrities include Olivia Rodrigo, Jo Koy, Liza Soberano, H.E.R., Isa Briones, Kelsey Merritt, Bretman Rock, Kristin Villanueva, Amielynn Abellera, R’Bonney Nola, Tracey Cunningham, Brandon Perea, Brandon Finn and Rocky.

How do you see Filipino Forces five years from now?

“Five years from now, I see Filipino Forces evolving from a singular cultural moment into a global platform for Filipino excellence and influence.”

“The Feast & Fiesta will remain the heart of it, but the vision extends far beyond one night.”

“I see Filipino Forces becoming a year-round ecosystem, spanning content, partnerships, talent development and brand collaborations that consistently spotlight Filipino voices at the highest level.”

“I envision chapters in key global cities. Strategic partnerships with major brands, studios and platforms. A pipeline that not only celebrates established icons but also actively discovers and elevates the next wave of Filipino leaders across industries.”

“Most importantly, I see Filipino Forces helping redefine how Filipino identity shows up in culture, not as niche or emerging, but as essential, influential and undeniable. The long-term ambition is simple: when people think about cultural impact at a global level, Filipino Forces isn’t part of the conversation; it helps lead it.”