Barcelona-Based Filipino Designer bags Spotlight in Consulate Exhibit
“Ang Bag ni Bong” Exhibit.
BARCELONA, 09 December 2022 – The Philippine Consulate General in Barcelona in celebration of the Month of Overseas Filipinos and as part of its thrust to promote Barcelona-based Filipino talents organized the first exhibit of Filipino chef and designer Bernie “Bong” Velasco. The opening ceremony was held at the Consulate with more than a hundred people in attendance including Barcelona Ciutat Vella District Councilor Jordi Callejo Moya.
The title of the exhibit, “Ang Bag ni Bong” has a deeper meaning attached to it as it relates the story from his childhood days when he used bags from improvised materials to his current status where he now designs and produces his own line of bags with the brand name “Bonga”.
Philippine Consul General to Barcelona Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro in her opening message encouraged everyone to go out of their comfort zones and diversify to other fields that will uplift not just their economic status but also their self-worth.
Mr. Velasco in response, expressed his appreciation for giving him the opportunity to hold his exhibit at the Consulate. He added, “I hope that my bags will have a connection with everyone as it tells a story of how we as Filipinos have become resilient because of the support of fellow overseas Filipinos”.
Wennielyn “Lenlen” Martinez-Mendoza, a long-time friend of the designer, when asked how she feels that one of the bags on display was named after her intimated, “I am honored and at the same time elated that Mr. Velasco finally realized his dream and that true to his Filipino values, did not fail to recognize those who have supported him through the years”. Colombians Juan Sevilla and Aroa Sanchez expressed admiration for the designer and the lively colors and designs of his bags. They both said, “We wish Mr. Velasco well and hopes that this exhibit is just the beginning of the growth of his career in the field of bag design and production”. END
Mr. Bong Velasco with his Bonga bags. (Some photos courtesy of Cecil Luna)
Ribbon cutting ceremony with Consul General Maria Theresa S.M. Lazara, Mr. Bernie “Bong” Velasco and Filipino community member Marlon Sison. (Barcelona PCG photo)
Unveiling of “Bonga” brand logo (Photo courtesy of Cecil Luna)
Mr. Bong Velasco with Ms. Wennielyn “Lenlen” Martinez posing with the bag named after her. (Barcelona PCG photo)
Guests from Spain, France, Austria, and Colombia viewing the exhibit. (Some photos courtesy of Cecil Luna)
For more information, visit https://barcelonapcg.dfa.gov.ph/ or https://www.facebook.com/PHinBarcelona/.