Gina Alexanders bags it for HOPE worldwide

Famous bag designer has been grateful for her successful designer photo handbags and accessories that feature photos of customers and celebrities on her bags, purses and wallets. In turn for her success, she has created her own philanthropic organization called GAPP (Gina Alexander Philanthropy Project) to benefit the HOPE worldwide Philippines foundation.


Mark Dacascos of "Iron Chef America."

This past June 1, 2008, Gina hosted a celebrity filled event at the Twin Palms Restaurant in Pasadena, CA. Part of the proceeds to the event will benefit the Hope Center Orphanage and Grief Recovery Plan for under-served children in the Philippines. She is a strong believer in protecting the children all over the world especially those living in the areas of the world that is affected by the AIDS epidemic. According to her company this benefit will be specifically held to raise money for Filipino children who are victims of child prostitution and sexual abuse.


Gina Alexander with her daughter.

The event started with the opening of the red carpet with various celebrities and performers coming through to make their presence known. Celebrity guests included Chilli from TLC, Kelly Hu, Mark Dacascos (Iron Chef Chairman), Camile Velasco, Rodel Gonzalez of Philippine music group Side A, singer Lara Avengoza, the cast of Disneyland's "High School Musical - Evan Saucedo, Jenny Schoone and Eddie Kaulukukui, the Basco Brothers, and Soapnet.com host Jelynn Rodriguez.


Gina Alexander with Chilli and her photo bag.



Kelly Hu knows how to do an over the shoulder pose.

Keeping the event flowing were the masters of ceremony KTLA News' Cher Calvin and actor Michael Copon (best known for his Power Rangers role and one of the Boys in Motion featured in Disney Channel's "That's So Raven.")


KTLA's Cher Calvin.

Along with raising money for children of the Philippines, Gina Alexander also honored individuals and organizations that have served our global community. The 2008 Honorees were APL.De.Ap of the Black Eyed Peas, Pat Gempel of HOPE worldwide, Search to Involve Pilipino Americans, and hosts Cher Calvin and Michael Copon.


Michael Copon showing off Gina Alexander's bags.


The cast of Disneyland's version of "High School Musical" perform at the event.


The Basco Brothers make their presence known on the carpet.

The event went without a hitch except for the fact that Ms. Sheila E. had to cancel her performance at the event due to some unexpected travel problems.


Camile Velasco makes her guitar playing debut.

Overall, I'd have to say the event producer Ted Benito definitely had made good on this event to the press for the unexpected problems he encountered at the Filipino Visionary Awards he worked on previously. This man was definitely working hard walking back and forth to ensure that the guests and press were treated well. Also, ensuring that event moved smoothly throughout the night. Also big thanks to Crystal of Gina Alexander.


Rodel Gonzalez shows his guitar and vocal skills.