ILLUSTRADO GO> ISSUE 13 > 13-01-17

13 U E 17 S S • I 01 15

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, n o a t g n o g Ba ong bu hay! g a B The New Year Issue #BagongBuhay2017

T ravel G oals NOW’S THE TIME. #SORRYNOTSORRY

Keep You r Res olutions

GANITO KASI YAN EH…

Resolve THIS!!!

ABA, ANONG PETSA NA??

A GLOBAL NE W YEAR HOW THE WORLD CELEBRATES THE NEW YEAR

illustradolife.com

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EDITOR’S NOTE/ CONTENTS

ISSUE 13

13th • Jan • 2017

#BagongBuhay2017

Let’s face it, mga friends: 2016 was a weird – if not downright rough – year for most of us.

It was a year of unpredictability and strange twists and turns, not to mention the tough global economy. But as always, every new day is a chance for us to make things better. Eh ano pa kaya yung New Year? Kaya huwag kayong mag-alala. Babawi tayo! As the song goes…

“Bagong taon ay magbagong buhay/ng lumigaya ang ating araw.”

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Editor-in-Chief

PINOY PROGRESSIVE

ILLUMINATI: THE GOD OF BEGINNINGS > 8 POWER TO THE PINOY: FIRING UP YOUR PASSIONS > 9 KEEPING UP WITH THE CONGEN: NEW ROUTES AHEAD > 10 FEATURE: NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS AROUND THE WORLD > 12 FEATURE: A NEW HOPE > 14 FEATURE: THE 5 NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS YOU SHOULD MAKE INSTEAD > 16 USAPANG ILLUSTRADO: WHAT’S THE ONE NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION YOU ALWAYS BREAK > 18 FEATURE: 9 PLACES TO VISIT THIS 2017 > 20 PINOY BYAHE GUIDE: SOUTH AFRICA > 24 COMMUNITY: #ILLUSTRADOSQUADGOALS > 37

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: WE LEFT AS HUMANS > 42 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: MELON QUINZON PEREZ > 44 ILLUSTRAGRAMMERS > 46

FASHION & BEAUTY

EDITORIAL: THEY CALL HER JANA > 28 BEAUTY: NEW YEAR, NEW BEAUTY HACKS > 38 CURATED FASHION > 48 WEARING IT WELL: CASEY ESGUERRA > 49

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JUST BECAUSE

IT’S WHAT I DO: JESSIE QUINTINILLA & JEIMAR PORE> 22 LA-LA-LA-LIFESTYLE: HOW TO KEEP UP WITH RESOLUTIONS > 39 ANGAS PINAS: IVY GRACE “AYEGEE” PAREDES > 34 ILLUSTRADO STUFF > 36 PINOY ENTREPRENEUR: FOURTE >40 MONEY: INVEST IN THE NEW YEAR > 50 SENSE & SPIRITUALITY: SPIRITUAL RESOLUTIONS > 51 ILLUSTRADO NOMNOMS: A WORLD OF GOOD EATS: SHORES JBR REVIEW > 52 ILLUSTRADO NOMNOMS: MOLECULAR GASTRONO-BURP: SPICEKLUB REVIEW > 53 LAW: ANO NA LAAANG, ATTORNEY > 54 PROXY PINOY: SOHINI DATTA > 55 COMMUNITY: BAYANIHAN 2016 > 56

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Contributors

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Editor-in-Chief “almost superwoman” Lalaine has been driving Illustrado’s mission to uplift Filipinos in the region for almost a decade now. A former corporate dynamo living in Dubai for over 20 years, her natural knack for marketing and mass communications makes her a formidable authority in any dialogue regarding the rebranding of the Filipino image on a global scale.

NICHOLO JALLORES

Associate Editor Nicholo is a generalist, realist, and cultural reprobate. He does not have a lifestyle – he has a life, and he will not choreograph it around a blog post, an Instagram account, or a contributor’s profile. #GetIntoIt

KRIP YUSON Esteemed writer Krip Yuson has earned distinctions as a literary author of over 20 books – from poetry, short stories, children’s stories, biographies, and translation. A Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature Hall-of-Famer, Krip regales us with his musings on the Filipino condition via his column, “Illuminati.”

CONSUL GENERAL PAUL RAYMUND CORTES When not performing his duties as the head of the Filipino community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, or the obligations of a dutiful dad, passionate patriot Paul Raymund Cortes mulls over how to further enrich the local Filipino community by promoting a more progressive mindset.

FRANCISCO COLAYCO

KRISTINE ABANTE

LOUISE MONIQUE

ROSAN KATLEA REODICA

Rosan is a Desert Mermaid who always wants to stay wet wherever she goes. She tells impatient people that she is a Practicing Misis – a woman of hits and misses. Being told she won’t be able to get married without learning how to cook Adobo, she has now learned how to make her own pesto, guacamole, and her own flavored taho. She has a cookbook, but she still doesn’t have her own kitchen.

Louise Monique is an allaround female version of a hustler. She is a make-up artist by profession, brand ambassador for the make-up brand, Giella Custom Blend Cosmetics and a beauty & make-up content creator.

Coming from an Advertising & Communications background, she is working towards developing her brand The Louise Monique. She has a certain je ne sais quoi that gives a personal touch to her chef d’œuvre. Get in touch with her via her website: www.thelouisemonique.com.

ANTONINO BENITEZ

A straight-A student whose hair often gets him into trouble, Antonino is a quirky character, well-versed in both the academics and the arts. He never strays away from his individuality. As he (not so)secretly fulfills his dream of becoming an astronaut, Antonino continues to walk through life hungry for new knowledge and in search of all things epic.

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Francisco Colayco is an entrepreneur, venture developer and financial adviser who has written many books that advocate Filipinos to financially prosper. He is Illustrado’s resident money columnist and personal finance guru.

Backed with over 10 years of entertainment industry know-how, Kristine Abante heads the Sales and Marketing Department of Rhythm Records, a major distributor of music in the Middle East. And when she’s not busy marketing records, she works as a Freelance PR and contributing writer to various publications, including Illustrado and Illustrado Go.

KENNETH SURAT

Ain’t nobody got wanderlust like the energetic and charming travel blogger Kenneth Surat.

One of Illustrado’s 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf, Kenneth is also the owner of Surat Journals, and the “imaginator” of #TheTravelingJournalProject. Follow his adventures at www.kennethsurat.com.

From The Publishers of Illustrado Magazine

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ CREATIVE DIRECTOR MON BENITEZ ASSOCIATE EDITOR NICHOLO JALLORES COLUMNISTS ABY YAP ALFRED “KRIP” YUSON ANNA DE LEON BARNEY ALMAZAR EXCEL DYQUIANCO FRANCISCO COLAYCO SPECIAL QUARTERLY EDITION KRISTINE ABANTE CONSUL GENERAL PAUL RAYMUND CORTES TRACY LEY ORENCIO CONTRIBUTING WRITERS – UAE, PHILIPPINES, CANADA AJ MARASIGAN ALWEE VILLAROSA ANTONINO BENITEZ DANABELLE GUTIERREZ JOSEPH ALCANTARA KENNETH EPHRAIM SURAT MAI BAUTISTA NINA PEÑALOSA-CARPIO RACHE HERNANDEZ REX VENARD BACARRA ROMAN GUEVARA ROSAN KATLEA REODICA CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS –UAE, PHILIPPINES & USA EROS GOZE RAEN BADUA IRVIN RIVERA JEF ANOG ALEX CALUENG ROZEN ANTONIO HERSON NEBAYA CONTRIBUTING FASHION CREW - UAE, HONGKONG, PHILIPPINES GINNO ALDUCENTE JESSIE TABLA VALENTINO MONTUERTO JASMIN

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BI-WEEKLY

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PINOY PRIDE Is RONY AQUINO aka “Barangay Kapitana” wearing her fierce Caviteña heritage like a badge of honor and inspiring everyone around her to celebrate their own Filipino identity with the same level of style and gusto.

CREATIVITY Is MON BENITEZ Still finding ways to prove that Pinoy artistry is at par with the best in the region, whilst running and curating an Instagram page for his pet labrador, Pepper.

AUDACITY Is LALAINE CHU BENITEZ Daring to do what others find un-doable and ludicrous... like putting up a fashion and lifestyle publication dedicated exclusively to the Filipinos in the Gulf and then running it with undiminished enthusiasm for over 10 years.

CURIOSITY Is NICHOLO JALLORES Perpetually asking “Won’t it be cool if...?” and believing that because the universe naturally always tends towards order, things will work until they don’t – so people might as well be brave and try everything.

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INCLUSIVENESS Is ALWEE VILLAROSA Gathering and galvanizing a community of creative, empowered, civic-minded Filipinos and giving them the platform with which to promote their own passion and at the same time, tell a story of their love for the motherland.

WE ARE TEAM ILLUSTRADO.

Audacity. Creativity. Curiosity. Inclusiveness. Pinoy Pride.

We are Illustrado.

That means “You” and “I.” If you have even the slightest morsel of ambition in your body, that undeniable desire to just do better, you are Illustrado. You are a part of a tribe of dreamers and achievers, visionaries and action stars, nerds, warriors, leaders, and community heroes. We are not the minority. We are the majority. And as different as we are from each other as individuals, we are one.

For a whole decade now, Illustrado has had one battle cry: “Champion the image of the Filipino.” That voice has not gone softer nor quiter through the years. Quite the contrary: that voice has been emboldened by trials and tribulations. From the outside it looks as though we are all about the glitz and swankiness, but trust and believe, kabayan - #thestruggleisreal. This is not as much an enterprise as it is an authentic advocacy and an advocacy is not an advocacy if it does not demand sacrifice. We are in it for the love of it, and we are in it for the long run.

But as audacious, outrageous, and courageous as we can be, we cannot sustain this fight by ourselves. We need your energy, skills, and good ol’ Pinoy pride to aid us in the noble mission to give the Filipino identity the respect and admiration it deserves. We need you to keep this movement in perpetual motion. Wherever in the world you are, we need you to remember and enact your allegiance to our dear nation.

WE NEED YOU. JOIN US. Sincerely,

Team Illustrado #GalingNgPinoy #TaasNooFilipino

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ILLUMINATI

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Deconstructing the Filipino zeitgeist. In short, dibdibang pagmumuni-muni.

T HE G OD O F BEG I NNI N GS B y > K r i p Yu s o n

Things change. But as the French say, the more things change, the more they stay the same. Or do they?

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like the French word for the first month of the year: Janvier.

Sounds poetic. But if you’re to Google it further, dismaying is the knowledge that Janvier Labs “are an international and independent company, specialis(ing) in rodent research models and associated services.” Thankfully, it is also “a London-based premium accessories house with an emphasis on luxurious statement pieces.”

Of course it’s a variation of the Latin for January as the first month of the year in both the Julian and Gregorian calendars: Ianuarius, named after Janus, the god of beginnings and transitions in Roman mythology. It also comes from the Latin word for door (ianua) since “January is the door to the year.”

Originally, March was the first month in the old Roman calendar, when traditionally it consisted of only ten months, with winter deemed as a month-less period. But either around 713 BC or 450 BC, depending on the Roman historian, the months of January and February were added to stretch the calendar and make it nearly equal to a standard lunar year of 354 days. By 153 BC, the practice of naming two consuls who entered office on May 1 and March 15 was changed, to have them enter office on January 1.

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By the 16th century, European countries “began officially making January 1 the start of the New Year once again — sometimes called Circumcision Style because this was the date of the Feast of the Circumcision, being the seventh day after December 25.”

I still recall January 1 being celebrated as the Feast of the Circumcision, way back as a grader in San Beda College in Manila. Five days later it was the Feast of the Epiphany, or Three Kings, on January 6, no matter what day that holiday fell on, until the practice gave way to having it on the first Sunday of the first month, thus becoming a movable feast.

Things change. But as the French say, the more things change, the more they stay the same. Or do they? I recall having our kids line up their shoes by a window on the eve of the Feast of Three Kings. And we’d fill them with chocolates and candies, and leave some dirt around the shoes, as evidence of camels’ dirty toes.

In recent years, January has become our balikbayans’ favored month for a homecoming. Not only are airfares low.

Also avoided is the crush of the Christmas season, the terrible traffic, the pellmell nature of malling, caroling, daily feasting.

And yet the season remains balmy, for golf back in the homeland, for clan reunions, why, even as late as Valentine’s Day.

Indeed, the god of beginnings can stretch the door for all practical purposes.

We can also imagine how, in the 16th century whence began our colonization, the word “Enero” was introduced to our shores. Not only was a calendar concept of time brought to bear on our forebears’ consciousness, making distinct each arrival of a new moon, but how it detailed the passage of the seasons more than agricultural phases of the year.

Decades later, a Waray folk song would celebrate the Spanish months in a distinct way, marrying their recitation as verse to something totally unrelated. Thus, the “Lubi-lubi” song that has since been claimed even by non-Warays, and said to be “taught in elementary schools elsewhere in the Philippines because the last lines serve as a useful mnemonic for the months of the year.”

Thus, “Enero, Pebrero,/ Marso, Abril, Mayo,/ Hunyo, Hulyo, Agosto,/ Setyembre, Oktubre,/ Nobyembre, Desyembre,/ Lubilubi.”

The god of beginnings, or transitions, could not have had it any other way. The more things are begun, the more they stay the confusing same?

POWER TO THE PINOY

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Towards empowering Filipinos.

“T here is no passion to be found playing small - in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” Nelson Mandela

F i r in g Up Yo u r Pass io ns By> Lalaine Chu- Benitez

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grew up seeing an older generation of Filipinos conditioned to settle for the cookie-cutter idea of life. You grow into adulthood, you settle down young, make yourself a family, and then devote all your energies to bringing up the kids. And finally, before you know it, you’ve hit your retirement years, and sink into the proverbial “rocking chair” waiting for the twilight of your life.

It’s a common formula. Still, it is not a way of life that is exclusive to the generation of our parents and the ones before them. At times, you could see the same symptoms with folks who are (supposedly) currently at the prime of their life.

Are you a zombie? One of those who goes through the motions of life with a blank stare, drifting from routine-to-routine, allowing yourself to be swallowed by the banality of the day-to-day. It’s the widespread lethargia of contemporary life – a lot of us inevitably get overwhelmed by work, responsibilities, commitments,

and sometimes self-imposed cultural limitations.

Sometimes, it’s because we’re tired (or most likely, “sick and tired”), or plain lazy, or perhaps we’ve simply resigned ourselves that this is how life is. We feel empty and unexcited, but just can’t be bothered to make an effort or don’t know how to shake off that gnawing feeling inside.

Wouldn’t it be nice to get up in the morning all pumped-up and enthusiastic to meet the new day’s promise? Wouldn’t it be good to feel that you are truly living instead of just merely existing?

Find your passion.

Discover what makes you feel alive, that which deserves your time, effort and commitment; that special something worth taking a big leap for, that keeps you going even through life’s seemingly boring routines, as well as the tough times.

Passion is not just the exclusive domain of couples and lovers. It is when you see

yourself intensely driven and energized in the name of worthy pursuits, or the things and causes you feel strongly about, and give you immense joy. Being passionate means doing something greater than yourself, giving the world your very own contribution.

Whether that may be big or small, or you, young or old, able-bodied or not, is immaterial. The most important thing is that you poured yourself into something worthy of your God-given gifts, redeeming yourself from a life that is lived without a purpose, revolving solely on routine and the obvious.

Do not settle. Demand for more in life.

Because a life without passion is a life not lived at all.

“There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” - Nelson Mandela

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KEEPING UP WITH THE CONGEN > Tales from your friendly neighbourhood Philippine Consul-General.

NEW RO U TES A HEAD By > Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes

2016 was an exciting year for the country — the campaign, the elections, President Duterte’s first few months in office, the newfound confidence of our people in government and in our leadership, and the euphoria of a people who finally have a leader they truly liked and were mesmerized with – one whom they were willing to follow to wherever he deemed it worthy. The year also witnessed a Filipino nation so embroiled in the political arena, voters both young and old took it upon themselves to promote the qualifications of those they supported, sharing FB posts that boost the image of those they rooted for whilst making fun of the others, commenting in support of or deliberately antagonizing friends, work mates, and family for their opposing views. The national leadership, on the other hand, showed the Filipino people what alternatives meant — new directions for the country, new forks to choose, 180-degree policy and paradigm shifts, and what real political will entailed. The year flew by so fast, the new year seems to have just snuck right in: a new one that

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made it so obvious how important it was to define for ourselves where exactly we hoped to go.

Like it or not, the rise of Facebook and other social media networks as avenues for the speedy interchange of views and opinions of both important and trivial issues augurs a more engaged citizenry, never mind if some, if not most, feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts in the anonymity of cyberspace, a stark departure from the face-to-face argumentation we were used to. And with an emboldened cacophony of perceptions of what society must be and who ought to be on the forefront of it all comes a more engaged stakeholder network, all eager to be part of the process, though veiled.

I was raised at a time where the environment for political discourse favored the more intellectual types and those of sterling academic credentials, while those who were not very blessed with the expertise in combing through the fine details of these subjects opted play the rules of the game of Philippine politics in

the sidelines, content with the foregone conclusions that its victors were chosen from a list of a very select few. Thus in the midst of a 21st-century national chorus of opinion, right or wrong, logical or ridiculous, brilliant or moronic, it is liberating to think of a society that has finally chosen to be silent no more and instead eager to be individually heard, counted, and listened to.

As far as the Consulate’s year was concerned, 2016 was a milestone — a year of the firsts in this Post’s 12-year history.

We held monthly town hall meetings, which gathered leaders and members of the Filipino community to learn and dissect issues and concerns that were of interest to the Pinoys in Dubai. We organized cultural events at the Consulate, opening its doors to rabid supporters of Filipino art — from painting to photography to the performing arts — as testament to the Filipino’s global repute as excellent and sought-after artists. We engaged our Filipino youth —with interschool debates and photography and film making,

KEEPING UP WITH THE CONGEN > Tales from your friendly neighbourhood Philippine Consul-General.

We cannot afford to be blasé about society, domestic and foreign policy, health issues, culture and the arts, and all other public concerns. There can be no room for those detached and indifferent to the path our society takes.

manifesting the new found confidence of the Filipino in fields hitherto dominated by other ethnicities. We produced a show that featured the song writing skills of our people. We reached out to other sectors of the Filipino diaspora in the emirates — the academe, musicians, performers, journalists, and entrepreneurs, welcoming them with open arms as we stand ready to expand to horizons we never thought of conquering. Clearly, our programs for 2016 serve only as precursors of how much more the Consulate and the Filipino community could achieve by holding hands and

embarking on a journey that would define the Filipino soul in this part of the world.

Much more is up for grabs and more is to be embraced. Juxtaposing all of 2016’s memories, events, happenings, activities, and projects, one thing can be easily gleaned -- that inevitably we can reach the fullest, even surpass our perceived potential, if all members of our society were to involve themselves in everything that goes on in our community. We cannot afford to be blasé about society, domestic and foreign policy, health issues, culture

and the arts, and all other public concerns.

There can be no room for those detached and indifferent to the path our society takes. Everyone must trust that speaking up will allow them to be a part of the solution. Nothing less than full action must be demanded of each one. In parallel, government must continually devise ways to engage its stakeholders, providing them new bridges to reach out to the people. When this synergy is played to the maximum, surely, the new routes available to us will lead us to brighter and rosier tomorrows.

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FEATURE

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New Year Celebrations Around the World By> Antonino Benitez

And there goes 2016, just like that!

The time for happily ditching those “could have done” moments, questionable habits, and regrettable decisions has finally come again. New Year ultimately signifies another chance in tackling life and all its daunting adventures, calling for one’s excitement, awaiting all the positive opportunities that lay ahead. With celebrations of the new year no less valued than that of the festive season, it is the specific annual customs that are perhaps more prevalent – these traditions being synonymous with setting the tone and determining the prosperity of the forthcoming year. Aware of how countries honor a concept of the same nature in differing manners, this is how new year is celebrated around the world:

United States: New Year’s Eve celebrations across America are nowhere as prominent than those taking place in New York city. Broadcasted nationwide, the bustling Times Square is brimming to its capacity every year on the night of the 31st being the venue of the highly anticipated countdown ball drop. Friendly kisses and sentiments are exchanged between neighboring people as they make the transition into the new year.

Greece: New Year’s eve for the Greeks, or St. Basil’s day as they call it, necessitates the ritual where a special bread is prepared and specifically distributed. In the yeasty delicacy that is Vasilopita, a coin is buried within the dough before being baked. As the bread is about to be served, the first slice is graciously offered to God, the second slice is given to the breadwinner of the house, and the third slice is cut with the intention of blessing the home – the rest is eaten by guests. The recipient of the coin is gifted and is ensured good luck in the coming months.

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Brazil: A country famed for its vibrant all-year-round celebrations, Brazilians are especially active during the welcoming of the New Year. Accompanied by traditions such as the serving of staples within the Brazilian cuisine, like lentils, their most notable means of ringing in the new year entails the appeasing of the Goddess Lemanja. Recognized as an entity who has power over water, Brazilians gift the goddess with flowers by throwing them toward a sea lit with floating candles.

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Spain: Immediately as clocks strike twelve, the first twelve seconds of the new year in Spain are rather intense and spent quietly. In the act commonly known as the Doce de Uvas for the Spaniards, individuals eat a single grape for each of the dozen strokes that follow midnight. Supposedly representative of the prosperity and happiness to come in following months, Spaniards annually abide to this superstition never risking the poisoning of their own fates.

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China: Recognized as one of the world’s most superstitious nations, there’s no surprise that the Chinese go to lengths concerning the start of the new year. Associated with traditions that include ecstatically setting off fireworks past twelve o’clock, and cleaning homes extensively, the Chinese commit further through their decorations. Whether adorning their homes in paper lanterns, or painting their front doors, the color red is majorly implemented as to them, it signifies good fortune and the warding off of evil.

Japan: New year in itself in Japan represents another festival with its own practices that takes place annually – this celebration being Oshogatsu. Considering that the values demonstrated in Buddhism frequently resonate with the Japanese, the main ritual carried out during this time of year is the ringing of the Bonshō. Taking place in all temples found across the nation, Buddhist bells are rung 108 times before the new year – a single echo denoting the cleansing of each of the Human sins in the Buddhist belief.

Regardless of where you stand in terms of what is believed to be auspicious, referencing the traditions nations follow in guaranteeing one’s prosperity, the ultimate factor that majorly contributes to your success are your actions and the decisions made throughout the year. So, approach every day with a positive outlook, and seize every interesting opportunity that has the potential of taking you places.

Consciously live everyday with substance, and be grateful for one another. Happy New Year!

Philippines: The Filipinos are possibly the loudest during the new year – intentionally, that is. Along with surrounding ourselves with round objects accounting for the food served, to the polka dots on the clothes we wear, we also like to happily jump around with coins. We believe that by doing so – and at the same making noise in the rejoicing of the new year – we are attracting a sense of wealth and good fortune.

Singapore : Done in the intention of lighting one’s determination in fulfilling their goals, the people of Singapore every year launch thousands of wishing spheres down the Singapore river – listing down their hopes and dreams on these spherical objects. With a record of over 25,000 spheres launched out into the river, the event was originally established solely to generate a more communal atmosphere. However, it has grown to become an international occurrence cherished by many. illustrado go>15

FEATURE >

By> Kristine Abante

2016 has been a tumultuous year in Philippine politics, yet in essence, it also has been a triumphant year, if you will consider the effective gains of the current administration in just over six months and how the disruptive, controversial style of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has turned things around.

“Change” was the banner cry of Duterte campaign, and six months in, we are getting a taste of those real changes. Now whether you believe those changes are something to celebrate or something to fear, we have to admit that the biggest change this new era of Philippine politics has brought on was the fact that it got us all up on our toes again after a long period of apathy.

“All rebellions are built on hope” says Star Wars Rogue One, and right now despite the naysayers, the general consensus is that the Philippines has a fighting chance if we play our cards right.

It is, indeed, only the beginning and for things to move we should not lose the momentum. Now that we have found

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our voice again, 2017 is the time to make demands and put our duly elected government to task.

Here are 7 things we’d like to see from PRRD and his troopers this 2017 : 1. Better communications We are all witness to the power of media, particularly social media last year, and how it can make or break a campaign.

From Duterte to Trump, we know that communication plays a vital role in engaging and mobilizing audiences.

What we ask of PRRD and his communications team is to be more effective in conveying the message of change by practicing responsibility in words and in actions.

Though the president and his supporters will argue that it would be difficult for the 71-year old to change his habits, Digong and his colleagues can certainly try to practice restraint, or quite simply just only stick to what is necessary and try harder at avoiding words that leave a lot of room for misinterpretation – unless of course,

that is the strategy. A lot of times, shallow controversies just arise of words usually taken out of context. So why not just make an effort to avoid them? Put the spotlight back on the real issues.

Also it would help if the communications team would stop trying to sell the “Rockstar” soundbyte too much. Real rockstars don’t need to declare themselves as such. Always, the work will speak for itself.

2. A long term plan on the “War on Drugs” We have seen the bloody first phase - a campaign promise delivered that left us all reeling with reality of humongous drug problem facing the Philippines. Over a million surrenderees and 2,000 deaths later, there is no clear end in sight.

Digong has always stressed the lack of funds to build Rehab centers coming to this mid-term, but now that its 2017 and the ball is in his full control, we expect to see the second phase of the plan which should focus more on rehabilitation and reintegration.

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What do we do with the surrenderees? How do we integrate these addicts back and and transform them into productive members of society again? What about the police operations? Where is the plan to avoid more collateral damage?

We understand that going against an armed and well established network of drug cartels is a complicated, dangerous task that requires a pragmatic, heavy-handed approach, but it does come at a cost – one that we can no longer brush aside as the death toll looms. Forget politics, and the yellow agenda, PRRD, General Bato, the Department of Justice, our lawmakers; they all need to stop being defensive and start providing better solutions.

3. More Incentive and Protection for our OFW’s In a few short months, we have seen a quite an improvement in OFW affairs: from the promised one-stop shop, to the elimination of laglag-bala threat, the quick action on stranded OFW’s in Saudi, the fairer treatment for Hong Kong maids and more recently the OFW bank.

Most OFW’s have been very vocal of their support of the president. This is evident in all his trips to meet the Filipino community abroad where there is always a huge gathering of excited fans welcoming Digong and his entourage.

In return, we expect that this government further provide assistance and incentives to our modern day heroes and not just simply lip service. For instance, it would be great to have better quality operations of Consulate services and Labor offices especially in critical territories like the Middle east. It would be great if our Consulate starts providing free legal assistance or a 24- hotline for distressed OFWs. Furthermore, the government can make better use of social media to better reach out to Filipinos abroad.

Government should also try to look into improving processes with better online connectivity and using less paper. If we can eliminate long lines and excess fees by online forms it would be big help especially for those with very little free time. They really should look into issues like the necessity of the OEC. Surely there can be a better way tracking registered

OFW’s without having to go through so much hassle every time we want to go on vacation.

4. Food Security The Department of Agriculture has so far done an excellent job in terms of providing support for our farmers and fishermen.

One only needs to follow Secretary Manny Piñol’s Facebook page to know the many positive changes brought on by this admin in a short span of time, including land distribution, the modernization of facilities and the move towards being independent producers.

There is a great opportunity in our agriculture sector and we ask this government to harness it to its full potential, thereby providing food security.

Taking inspiration from the UAE, Food banks can be also be established nationwide to eliminate wastage and provide for the less fortunate. For instance, Duterte’s Kitchen is a great idea that needs to be made official and replicated in many more places.

5. Better, Faster Affordable Internet Down with the monopoly of a few telco players! We have had enough of their crappy service and expensive rates. If we are ever going to be globally competitive, we need high-speed internet that could support our businesses, our education facilities, and all kinds of transactions. With the traffic in EDSA, the least you can do is get us all mobile.

Let us Skype and Facetime properly with our associates and our families abroad.

Let us have access to streaming services that can better facilitate cultural and information exchange. Improve the internet services and you will see how we can work faster, better, and more efficient. We are the social media capital of the world for crying out loud, so please get us up to speed!

6. Tourism beyond Miss Universe The Tourism slide in the current Admin’s list of achievements is quite dull, and frankly, disappointing. There has got to be something more than just bringing the Miss Universe beauty pageant to the Philippines next year. The Philippines is the new Thailand – the current toast of the town of International backpack community. We need a solid plan.

Let’s keep up with the roadshows, let’s get aggressive with marketing our tourism properties while at the same time finding means to protect our natural environment.

Maybe we can get presidential son Baste to endorse our Surf spots and put a spotlight in taking care of our beaches and our coral reefs.

What about harnessing voluntourism some more? Get our foreign friends to help out in poor communities.

What about professional training and certification for our local tour guides? So much can be done for tourism beyond Miss Universe.

7.Concrete Traffic Solutions We have seen the DPWH and DOTC present their plans for the next 6 years through a presentation dubbed as Build, Build, Build, and quite frankly it is an ambitious plan.

If done right, it can really change our travel time in the long term, but while we wait for these to be completed, we would be needing more grounded policies and regulations, along with efficient enforcement of traffic laws that encourage discipline in the streets for both motorists and pedestrians. Tama na ang pasaway! If we want to solve the traffic problem, let us first learn to follow the rules. Let us start acting like the world-class citizens that we are. **** So there you go, that’s just a few of the changes that we hold PRRD and his government accountable this 2017. We do not ask for the moon. We simply ask for practical solutions that will pave the way for greater progress.

Dear PRRD and team: the Filipinos you serve are awake and, and they are keeping a score card. That being said, we do recognize that we are all in this together for the love of the country. A new dawn is rising and we are more than ready.

Let’s keep at it.

Sincerely, your partners for change.

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FEATURE

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The 5 new year’s resolutions you should make instead By> Anna Oposa Photos By> Debbie Fortes

@debbiefortes

A

h, it’s January 2017! ‘Tis the time we make promises to ourselves to leave the “old me” in 2016 and usher in the “new and improved me” at midnight.

We list a number of things we will do differently. We will stop hitting the snooze button. We will exercise more. We will stop smoking and will drink less. The list goes on.

But after all the fireworks have been lit, the parties attended, and the fruitcake and ham eaten, we go back to the daily grind.

And, more often than not, we slip back into our old habits—those we swore we would never do again.

This is not to say that keeping New Year’s resolutions is impossible. The end of December and beginning of January always bring clarity, optimism, and a contemplative mood that we should take advantage of. Instead of making broad,

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general resolutions, let’s make 2017 really count by making sustainable, realistic, and attainable resolutions.

Here are some ways: Instead of saying “I will lose 10 pounds,” commit to being healthy.

To jump-start this resolution, keep a food diary for at least a week to observe your eating habits. Do you eat fast food when you’re on the go, or binge on junk food when stressed?

By discovering these patterns, you will be able to change them. Bring food from home instead of ordering take-out (saving you money andcalories!), or snack on a fruit instead of potato chips.

Part of being healthy means having some kind of physical activity. To make this less

painful (literally and figuratively), choose an exercise you actually enjoy. The gym isn’t the only answer. Explore your options: Zumba, kickboxing, yoga, and swimming are just some of the many workouts available.

Give yourself a rational timeline based on your lifestyle, body type, genes, and current weight. It’s also a good idea to observe your body’s “loss” in inches instead of pounds, too. Weight loss doesn’t always equate to fitness, especially because muscle weighs more than fat.

Instead of saying “I will save money”, be specific about what you’re saving for and by when you want it.

The amount you’ll need for an iPad by mid-2015 will be exponentially different for an apartment in 2016. By laying these out, you can figure out the most

FEATURE

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@debbiefortes

appropriate financing schemes for each.

For instance, there are credit cards that offer 6-24 months to pay without interest for certain gadgets. For real estate, you can learn about which banks have the most reasonable loans and which developers have the best terms for what you are capable of.

A mistake that people often make is to save whatever is left from expenses and income.

Financial experts advise a reversal: income – savings = expenses. With this strategy, it’s easier to set milestones and budget accordingly.

Instead of saying, “I will get promoted”, be outstanding in your work.

Go to meetings prepared and armed with your own ideas, submit all requirements on time or earlier, and maintain good working relationships with your colleagues.

Pakikisama is something valuable that they didn’t teach in college.

Promotions and increased pay grades are not always in our control. There may be no position to move into at the moment, or you don’t meet the position’s required skills set.

By being a step (or five) ahead, you will be able to gain your boss’s trust and get more responsibilities. When there’s finally an opening for a position that suits you, you just might be first in line.

Instead of saying, “I will travel”, note down where you want to go, when, and with whom.

These three factors influence how you will get there and how much you need to save.

It will also be easier to plan the itinerary and pack based on the seasons.

A solo trip to Brazil for the upcoming World Cup will cost much more than going there

on any other month with a group of friends to split expenses with. In such cases, you’ll just have to be more resourceful, like renting a room on AirBnB instead of staying at a swanky hotel, or taking the bus more often than a cab. The plus side is you get to make a schedule that’s completely yours.

Instead of saying, “I will be in a relationship”, focus on the first four resolutions.

Making this a goal puts you at the risk of settling for someone who doesn’t necessarily meet your standards. It’s much better to stay single and work on your health, finances, career, and travel bucket list than commit to a mediocre relationship.

Who knows, you might even meet your future partner while working on those—in the gym, at your dream destination, or at the workplace!

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USAPANG

ILLUSTRADO >

Say no to usapang barbero. Dapat, Illustrado!

Puro pangako, lagi namang napapako. Pramis ng pramis, ayaw namang magpapawis. Eh ano na lang? We’ve made a grand habit out of listing down our New Year’s resolutions – and then breaking them one by one throughout the year. But there’s always that ONE promise that you just can’t seem to keep, year in, your out.

So we had to ask...

What’s the one New Year’s resolution that you ALWAYS break?

JcBrigoli Filmmaker, UAE

I stopped believing in New Year’s resolutions a long time ago. I used to list down things that I would do, but following through was difficult. I realized that if I wanted to change or start something, waiting for a New Year is like saying, “I’ll wash the dishes tomorrow.” Eventually the dirty dishes pile up and you dread why you promised to do it in the first place. Jefferson said, “Don’t put off till tomorrow what you can do today”. So why wait another year if you can just do it now.

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KrizziaNavarroza Financial Services Representative, Canada

I constantly tell myself that I’ll save money for the future but I always fail. Having savings is very important and I am not getting any younger.

So this year, I’ll strive harder, focus on my goals and use my money wisely.

Tessa Antonio Social Media Specialist, UAE

I’ve been meaning to prioritize my savings every year and aiming to put 1/4 of my salary into savings account but impulsiveness and short-term mindset always gets in the way.

I’ve been struggling to take control of my finances due to a lot of temptation (credit card, online shopping, brunches and random buys) but hopefully this year, I’ll stick to my budget plan.

Seeking a Financial advisor helps a lot too.

Bettina Someros Media Buyer, Philippines

That my motivation to eat healthier and exercise more often will last longer than January 1. I usually just go back to my couch potato lifestyle after the first day of the year. I haven’t done any of the two by then, but my drive is burried under all the junk food I am eating and the movies and series I have to see.

USAPANG

ILLUSTRADO >

Say no to usapang barbero. Dapat, Illustrado!

MJ Saidoreg Body Combat Instructor, UAE

All or nothing goals: “I want to eliminate sugar from my diet.” At some point during the year, I may break my New Year’s resolution.

But on the contrary If you view your resolution in black or white light, you may feel one mistake means failure and be tempted to give up entirely. It doesn’t have to be that way. This isn’t just about dashing through the first couple of weeks of January. This is for the long haul - its about persistence’.

Wendy Rozon Concierge in La Verda Dubai Marina Suites & Villas, UAE

To socialize more. My being so private is a hard habit to break, no matter how I drag myself to mingle with people I see myself on-my-own world in the middle of each year writing blogs and going places to photo shoot. To solve this, I made a commitment to participate & contribute to Dubai Concierge Group (association of UAE concierges) and happy village called BOL Dubai (life coaching community).

Through these, with my fingers cross (and toes), I knew I can accomplish my New Year 2017 resolution.

Arlene Abe Pulido Learning and Development Manager, UAE

It is always a resolution for me to be with my 3 beautiful children studying in the Philippines on their special events either in their school, recitals, competitions, girls scout camping, volleyball events and many more but unfortunately I just can’t. I know from the beginning that it would impossible but it is always the top item in my list. I’ve tried as much as I can use technology like Skype, FB live, Snapshot etc. I’m just so lucky and blessed that my kids understand our situation and appreciated all of our hard work

Lilian Soriano Bautista Senior Engineer - Design and Applications, UAE

Losing weight and getting fit. Geez, if it’s just as easy as a snap to do, then I must be happy 365 days a year!

But alas, I need a lot of courage and discipline to beat temptations on foods! Why? Because I have dear friends who always say “minsan lang ‘yan” or “ngayon lang ‘yan” when all of us surround an enticing, delicious meal. Just imagine each of them say these words everyday or every meal we are together..? It’s like, asking myself, how could I beat temptations when I can’t even beat a fraction of my friends..?! I know, too, that exercise is good. but the usual no-time-for-exercise is also another downside for me since I could only go for the start and quit after the first or second try! Too bad, isn’t it?

Dea Fortea Paderes Baker – Shansweets Connection, UAE

New Year’s resolutions are not always sustained for the whole year and having this in mind the one that I ALWAYS manage to break is looking after my Physical self. I would always set goals on eating healthier and do some exercise to get fit. It’s easier said than done especially when your daily schedule is as hectic as mine. Looking after 2 boys and being a chef’s wife, homemaker, baker and everything else in between. I always just end up sustaining my emotional and spiritual being so the body is energized to cope daily. But of course, it is even better if you also keep fit. To achieve this goal, it must be intentional and I look forward that I would be able to do this 2017.

Ingrid Aureada Division Manager (model division), UAE I’m a foodie and food junkie. My favorite junk food combo is potato chips and a bar of chocolate: my lazy after work dinner combo. Every year I tell myself I need to start eating healthier, I’m no longer in my 20’s, I’m not getting younger and I would like to look like Halle Berry when I’m in my 50’s . Unfortunately the taste of potato chips and chocolate combo is hard to ditch. So my “eat healthier” New Year’s resolution always never happens.

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FEATURE >

Places to Visit this 2017 as Suggested by Travel Bloggers If you are like my friends for sure part of your new year’s resolutions is to TRAVEL MORE. Yheap, traveling for us Filipinos is not a taboo anymore. We are looking forward for that vacation trip as early as January. Either you go on a solo trip, pang barkada or

By> Kenneth Surat

pang pamilya.

So, as my first article for the 2017, I asked some of my travel blogger friends on their recommended destinations for this year. Here are our suggestions.

1

Marrakech to Tanger in Morocco

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Suggested by: Dana of www. elevaete.com @lifeof_dana

Whether you rent a motorcycle or car, get on the road in Morocco. Hit the road from Marrakech, head West and up North through the Atlas Mountains. The landscape is ever changing; you can expect a different jaw-dropping view around every turn, of which there are plenty due to the winding mountain roads. The primetime weather-wise to go for a trip like this is end of summer. This is the route that left me craving more and offers a range in accommodation (think from rags to riches).

Tip: don’t rely on Google Maps to guide you as it will lay out the route but the guiding option is not available in Morocco.

Bagan in Myanmar

Suggested by Vins of www. thepoortraveler.net @ thepoortraveler 2

Wadi Rum in Jordan

Suggested by Trisha of www. psimonmyway.com @psimonmyway

Did you watch The Martian? Yep, it was filmed in the Wadi Rum. Not to mention Transformers also. Nope, not a green screen. It’s a real place and I’ve never seen anything like it. Translated to “The Valley of the Moon,” the Wadi Rum is all natural, inhabited by many human cultures since prehistoric times, with many cultures like the Nabateans who left their mark through rock paintings, graffiti and temples. Aside from the sunset camel ride where you will not find anyone in the deserted place but you, glamourous camping overlooking the stars is one of my favourites in this trip.

4

We were able to set foot in Bagan and marvel at the sight of 2000+ temples and pagodas sprawling across the vast landscape, and it was one of our most memorable experiences so far.

Unfortunately, the August 2016 quake damaged around 400 of these structures.

Still, tourism continues to enjoy steady growth in the region. While renovations are ongoing, authorities have restricted access to some temples. By late 2017, they will be fully restored, which puts Bagan on top of the list of destinations we will surely return to next year. (That and its people and their infectious smiles and warm hospitality.)

While some gave a specific destination, others thought, why not visit the whole country?

Bolivia

Suggested by Aleah of www.solitarywanderer.com @aleahphils

Its most popular attraction is the Salar de Uyuni -- a surreal crystalline landscape spanning over 12,100 sq km of pure white salt. However, Bolivia is more than just the salar; there’s the quiet charm of its small historic towns, the stark beauty of its mountains, and the hundred and one things you can do there that will challenge your mind, body, and spirit. Bolivia is not as popular with tourists as Brazil and Peru, but stay just a little bit longer there and you will learn that there’s more to this landlocked country than meets the eye. illustrado go>22

FEATURE >

5

Kyrgyzstan

Suggested by Hannah of www.hannahmagsayo.info @ hannahmagsayo

Kyrgyzstan is the smallest country in Central Asia. It has untouched landscape, rich culture, and friendly locals. Kyrgyzstan’s lack of popularity makes the country in a unique position of offering adventures and attractions without crowds of tourist. It is also a budget-friendly destination. If you are more adventurous and have enough time, then head over to the country side to experience the Kyrgyzstan in a local way. CBT Kyrgyzstan (Community Based Tourism Kyrgyzstan) helps you to experience Kyrgyz culture through food, music, arts and tradition. They will arrange for you an authentic yurt stay with a nomadic family, go horse trekking to song kol, attend a cultural festival or hire a driver to drive you across the country.

7

Myanmar

Suggested by Keith of www. travelinspiration360.com @ travelinspiration360

While Vins encourages us to explore Bagan, Kieth tells us to try to visit the whole country.

For decades, the country was cut off from the rest of the world and shrouded itself in mystery.

When visiting Myanmar, it felt like taking a time machine back to the 30s where you get to experience a nostalgic glimpse of how our parents or grandparents lived in the past. They basically “preserved” the living standard or some say they remain stagnant. In my opinion, that’s the true beauty of Myanmar. The human nature and cultures are also well-preserved. The best place where you can make that level of genuine human connection with people. You can’t find scammers, touters, or petty crime in this considerably a poor nation in the South East Asia.

As for me, I am suggesting two destinations that I just recently visited.

9

8

6

Chile

Suggested by Elif of www. cizenbayan.com @cizenbayan It’s a far, isolated country West of South American with a lot to offer.

Chile offers visitors snowy mountains in regions close to the Antarctica. Up north you will find the Easter Island and the famous Chilean Poet Pablo Neruda’s hometown, the historical city of Valparaiso. Traveling around the country you’ll find yourself in one of the best surfing spots in the world or in the world’s driest desert, San Pedro Atacama

Bandung in Indonesia

Suggested by Kenneth of www.kennethsurat.com @kennethsurat

We always associate Indonesia with Bali (or sometimes, Jakarta) but this country is more than its beautiful beaches and busy cities. Bandung is the art hub of Indonesia. If you are a hipster or pretending/dreaming to one, Bandung is definitely a place for you. Its street is full of artsy cafes and funky shops filled with patrons in skinny jeans and nerdy glasses. Aside from that, Bandung’s temperature is colder than the rest of Indonesia, so if you drive a few miles from the city proper, you’ll find yourself lost in pine trees and clay roofed houses.

Norway

Suggested by Kenneth of www.kennethsurat.com @kennethsurat

Norway has always been in my list but I still feel that a lot of people are not convinced to put this country in their ultimate places to visit bucket list. Bergen is my favorite city which is the second largest city next to Oslo. A city surrounded by 7 mountains which you can easily climb to watch the sunset at 11 pm. Home of 8 Unesco World Heritage, Norway can offer its visitors an array of activities ranging from cultural to extreme adventures. If you visit during winter, you’ll have a chance to dance along the magical northern lights while summer can give you a glimpse of the midnight sun.

Do you have any travel bucket list this 2017? Whether it is in this list or not, I wish you a very travelful New Year! illustrado go>23

Filipino Progress & Diversity

JESSIE QUINTILLA

Head of HR Services for Multinational Financial Services Dubai, UAE

JEIMAR PORE

Engineer Project Manager – Dubai, UAE My Job I am a Project Manager working on a international environment in a management position which includes

illustrado go>24

My Job I am the Head of HR Services for a multinational Financial Services company based in DIFC. I help our employees help our clients understand the importance of protecting their future and provide financial security for their families and businesses.

My main role is committed to addressing the needs of our function and the business, ensuring that we have the right manpower capability who will provide world-class customer and claims services so we can deliver what we promised to our clients when they need it the most. With my role, I was given opportunities to travel abroad, meet new people with different culture and be able to help employees realise their full potential.

My Typical Working Day My day usually revolves around managing the day to day operations of our HR services and deliver group-wide initiatives.

I oversee the recruitment process,

constant development possibilities and a challenging working environment.

As a Project Manager I am involved in the development and execution of the operations project with multiple project managers and directors, including engineering procurement, EPCM, owner’s team, and external construction management consultant. To ensure target plans and schedule are achieved on time and to budget; ensuring remedial strategies are developed when shortfalls are identified. I am also In charge of power plant system design such as efficient fuel system, engineering thermodynamics, power generation and effectively carrying out the complex implementations and solely handling extensive contracts with stakeholders, pulling everything together with other department such as civil, electrical, financial and business department.

My Typical Working Day My typical working day starts with a big cup of black coffee and a toast with peanut

at the work place >

onboarding, off-boarding, payroll and benefits to name a few. A challenging day will be when I manage employee relations issues (performance management, disciplinary, grievance, ethics investigation, etc). I always end up my day online, catching up with beautiful people around me whom I called my 2nd family (my Fil-HR friends).

Message for my fellow expats As what Steve Jobs said “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life, don’t be trapped by dogma”.

Always strive to be the best, spend time in refining your craft and never lost the opportunity to help others in the Filipino Community. Build your personal brand as someone credible by doing what you say you’ll do, and has integrity by having strong moral values.

butter while watching the newscast. Most of my day is occupied by e-mails, conference brainstorming and over-the-phone dialogue. And from time to time I also go on business trips to visit our contractors and clients for technical and commercial consultations.

Although my schedule is full throughout the week, i still manage to have quality time with my parents and siblings, enjoy my ME time and most of all, travel to different parts of the globe.

Message for my fellow expats Stay strong, humble and invest in your dream. Grind now, shine later.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

PINOY RESOLUTIONS BE LIKE! ARTWORK BY CHOLO JUAN

Resolution, o konsumisyon? Why do we even bother making resolutions, when we break them all the time anyway? How about this: before making any new promises, perhaps we can work on the things that we intended to accomplish in 2016 but couldn’t – or wouldn’t. Maybe 2017 is a time for being honest with ourselves and a bit more self-aware. Realistic lang, kumbaga. Hindi naman natin kayang gawin lahat sabay-sabay, kaya kabayan: hinay hinay lang!

Don’t just make resolutions. Make action PLANS! Map out your journey towards your goals, and make good on your promises. Kaya yan! Kapit lang!

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PINOY BYAHE GUIDE > See the world, kabayan! Here’s how.

Guide to

South Africa

By > PHILIP STO. DOMINGO

DESTINATION: South Africa TRAVEL DATES: Dec 11 to Dec 18, 2016 (7 days) AIRFARE COST: 2,500 AED via Ethiopian Air (1 stop in Addis Ababa) TRAVEL BUDGET: Approx 7,000 AED, inclusive of airfare WHY I WANTED TO VISIT THIS PLACE I started my 2016 traveling to Asian countries and discovering different cultures and religion.

Before the year ends, I wanted to do something different that will push my limits and stamina so I decided to visit South Africa, which is one of the top choices for adrenaline junkies. The country does not only have rich history but the food and the people are fantastic. There are tons of things and activities to do which will surely satisfy your cravings for adventure.

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PINOY BYAHE GUIDE > See the world, kabayan! Here’s how.

Top 5 things to do Cage Shark Diving at Gansbaai (2 hours drive from Cape Town) Imagine meeting great white sharks just inches away from you. This is the ultimate underwater adventure – safe, fun and truly unforgettable. No diving experience is needed and diving suits are provided by the tour operator complete with hoodies, boots, mask and weigh belts to help you stay underwater. You will start your day by having breakfast (which is provided) then a short briefing on the Do’s and Don’ts before heading to the ocean.

Our cage can accommodate 6 people. My tip is to volunteer on the first wave of divers as the sharks are still active and craving for the bait (called Chum). Then go again on the final batch as they always save the best show for the last.

< Bungee Jumping at Bloukrans Bridge, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape (5 hours drive from Gansbaai) This is the ultimate adrenaline rush experience! Bloukrans Bridge in Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape is recognized as the world’s highest bungy bridge which is about 216 meters high. Whilst you won’t go down all the way, your fall will depend on your weight and the cord you jump on. I would suggest that you book online prior to the jump to save about AED14 and secure the date and time slot.

The initial payment is only for the jump but videos are also available to purchase if you wish to have a copy of this rare experience.

< Abseiling at Table Mountain, Cape Town Just a few minutes from Cape Town City Center is Table Mountain. It is one of the most iconic mountains in South Africa and a very significant tourist attraction in the city. You need to either hike or use a cable car to reach the top (I suggest the latter and book online to avoid the queue). Cable car fee is AED76 per person.

Don’t look at this as an easy-breezy job.

Descending down the sides of Table Mountain can be hair-raising, especially if you have the fear of heights. The mountain itself is about 1,085 meters above sea level so if you want to feel the ‘rush’ then just look down! Once halfway, it will give you a spectacular 180 degrees view of the city.

Upon completion, you need to hike up to go back to registration point. illustrado go>27

PINOY BYAHE GUIDE > See the world, kabayan! Here’s how.

Paragliding at Signal Hill, Cape Town Don’t be fooled by the ‘relaxed’ look of this adventure sport. Before you go down for landing, the pilot paraglider will give you a ride of a lifetime. Having the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, you will foot-launch the glider aircraft by running off the cliff of Signal Hill. In no time, you will be having a bird’s eye-view, flying and gliding calmly over the city. This will last for about 10 minutes so

TOP TIPS FOR VISITING THIS PLACE • As Filipino passport holder, we need a visitor’s visa to enter the country. The SA Consulate General (Dubai) is located at Bur Dubai, Khaleed Bin al Walleed Street (also called Bank Street) New Sharaf Building on the 3rd Floor. Visa applications are from Sunday to Thursday from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM while passport collections are from Sunday to Thursday from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Visa processing takes 5 working days. There are no visa fee for Philippine passport holders.Yellow Fever Vaccine card is required for visa application if your flight have stop-over in any African countries.

• Bring lots of sunscreen since most of the activities are outdoors. Make sure to have super comfy shoes and always bring water

illustrado go>28

my tip for you is to just seize and enjoy the moment. Let the pilot do all the video and photo capture. Note that this activity can only be done if the weather/ wind condition is good. Otherwise the operator will ask you to come back on another time or they will refund the payment.

Lion’s Head Hike Another spot that provide a bird’s eye view of Cape Town is at the top of Lion’s Head which is still part of Table Mountain

specially when hiking.

• Purchase Tourist SIM Card for navigation purposes. This is very useful and helped us a lot going from one place to another. There is a kiosk where you can purchase inside Cape Town International Airport. You can use this as well to post your photos and activities on your Facebook and Instagram in real time. :-) • Cook food instead of eating out. If you are staying for at least a week, eating out is not very practical so I would suggest that you rent a place with a kitchen so you can prepare and cook before heading out to your adventures.

• While the road conditions in South Africa are good, all vehicles are right hand drive

National Park and just a few miles from the city center. If you like hiking, this one should not be missed. The hike will take about 2 -3 hours (two-way) and one must be physically fit as it requires climbing boulders, stairs, and chains to reach the top. This is very popular for hikers during full moon as it gives breath taking views of the city. If you’re doing this at night, make sure to bring flashlights or head torch and warm clothing.

so be careful and attentive when navigating the roads because it’s very easy to be confused if you are used to left hand driving.

ESTABLISHMENTS/BUSINESS THAT HELPED MAKE MY VISIT SUPER ENJOYABLE Hertz Car Rental - Hertz office is just a few walks away from Cape Town International Airport. We rented a car for 8 days for only 1,168 AED. Renting a car is a must specially if you are a budget traveler/ backpacker.

AirBnB - We rented a place in Cape Town hosted by Ellie for 1,208 AED (8 days). I highly recommend this place as the host is very accommodating. Place is secured and

PINOY BYAHE GUIDE > See the world, kabayan! Here’s how.

safe and there is a mall and grocery shop at the ground level of the building. Also you will wake up with an amazing view of table mountain. Place is good for 3-4 pax.

Great White Shark Tours This is the number 1 TripAdvisor tour in Gansbaai. Book your great white shark cage diving experience here at 443 AED / pax. They provide breakfast and diving gears.

Face Adrenaline - Your bungee jump experience at Bloukrans Bridge can only be booked here @ 242 AED/ pax Book online to save and secure the date and time at https://www.faceadrenalin.com Abseil Africa - Table Mountain abseiling can be book through their website at http://abseilafrica.co.za or you may visit their office at Long Street in Cape Town City Center. This activity is 255 AED/ pax.

Fly Cape Town Paragliding - You may book your paragliding adventures

online @ https://flycapetown.co.za. Cost is 375 AED/ pax which includes videos and photographs. Meeting place is at Signal Hill which is part of Table Mountain National Park.

THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR • The trip would not be complete without your stroll to the famous Long’s Street where all the bars and restaurants are located.

• Few beggars can be observed but they are not aggressive. Most are asking for jobs and food.

• News on theft stealing inside cars can be heard so if you rented a car, make sure to secure all your valuables. On some parking areas, there are people voluntarily assist and look after your vehicle, just make sure you give a few coins before you leave. Also check and see if you have to pay parking fees.

EXPERIENCE I HAD IN THIS PLACE South Africa is a melting pot of cultures and extreme adventures. I have done so much in a span of 8 days whether it be in the open waters of the pacific to jumping off a plane at 13,000 feet. But the best one that definitely leaves a mark in my heart is the bungy jump that I did in Blourkans Bridge. Nothing compares to the feeling of having the courage to conquer your fear of heights and jumping off the bridge (alone) with just a cord as your lifeline.

The feel of adrenaline rushing through your head is indescribable and the sense of accomplishment fills you once you have completed the jump. By far, South Africa is number one on my list as the best adrenaline getaway for adventure seekers.

YOU should put all these in your bucket list!

CONNECT WITH ME! Follow my travel adventures on Instagram: @philipdomingo, #FollowIpe

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FASHION

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Cropped top by Vianca Corcuera; Wide Hem Pants by Yako Reyes; Studded Cuffs by Christopher Muna

They call her

The Roman goddess of new beginnings. Lady January, shining the light of intuition and awareness, moving in the key of clarity and insight.

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FASHION

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Embellished One piece swimsuit and oversized cover up by Arnold Galang; Neckpiece by Christopher Munar; Metallic Gold Shoes with plastic details by Nereku

PHOTOGRAPHER HERSON NEBAYA STYLIST ARGIE SALANGO MAKE-UP ARTIST LEI PONCE OF MAKE UP STORE PHILIPPINES HAIRSTYLIST ROCHELLE LACUNA MODEL OLIVIA MEDINA OF IM AGENCY MANILA ASSOCIATE STYLIST ALFY ALMONTE PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANTS ALBERT HOMO, MARK OCAPAN & EARL NADAYAO SHOT ON LOCATION METEORA TAGAYTAY illustrado go>31

FASHION

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Metallic Jersey Gown by Lizanne Cua Earrings by Christopher Munar

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FASHION

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Panelled Sequined Cropped Top and Pants

by Winzel Chua; Spiky Cuffs by Jun Jun Ablaza; Metallic Strap; Heels by Nereku

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Panelled Sequined Cropped Top and Pants

by Winzel Chua; Spiky Cuffs by Jun Jun Ablaza; Metallic Strap Heels by Nereku

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FASHION

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FASHION

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Metallic Jersey Gown by Lizanne Cua Earrings by Christopher Munar

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ANGAS PINAS

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Pinoy Pride. Kabayan Yabang. Ganyan tayo eh!

X-FACTOR’S GOLDEN VOICE: IVY GRACE “AYEGEE” PAREDES

B y > E x c e l V. D y q u i a n g c o

Music has always been an integral part of her life - more so that when her family fell on hard times, Ivy Grace Paredes resorted to using her golden voice to bring food to the table.

“When we were very young we had a neighbour who would often loan us some of the food that she sold,” the passionate songstress who hails from Davao City says.

“At times we would just eat sweet potato and nothing more. We weren’t eating enough and we weren’t eating right.”

At a tender age of fourteen, Ayegee, as she is often called, decided to discontinue her education to give way to her siblings’ studies. She embarked on another journey and together with her father, crossed to Metro Manila to help augment the family income. With auditions left and right, she joined local and televised competitions: Birit Queen of the noontime TV show Eat Bulaga where she was crowned the first winner, the Metropop Young Singers competition, Starquest of Magandang Tanghali Bayan (MTB), Awitanghalan and Talentadong Pinoy of ABC 5 where she became a Hall of Famer in 2012.

“Let me just say that it was nerve-wracking each time I had to be onstage because of the fact that it was being televised,” she recalls. “I guess that experience helped me manage my nerves once it came to joining the X-Factor UK.” At 25 years old, Ayegee then went back to school, taking up her Midwifery Course because aside from music, medicine was also close to her heart. This time, though, it was her siblings who helped her with

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her education but because they weren’t earning enough, she became a working student. After graduation, she went to Dubai to work as a singer in a comedy bar.

Last November 2015, she triumphantly passed the board exams.

Her X in X-Factor Initially she never had any plans in joining X-Factor UK but when she met Mr. Bhansali, an Indian friend, who encouraged her to join the worldwide singing competition, she reluctantly agreed.

“He believed in me from the get go,” she says. “He has always been confident about my talent and my potential in joining international competition. He handled all of my finances. I have worked really hard and did everything that I can do to arrive in the UK. When the competition started, I thought of nothing but winning. Every time I was on that stage, every time I held that microphone, I sung, I performed my heart out and gave everything that I had as if it was my last performance. Just the

experience alone was so priceless and wonderful. It has taught me to be patient and to make new friends but to never forget that it is still a competition and that I arrived there to win.”

She considers hugging the ruthless judge Simon Cowell as one of her memorable moments because she had always been a fan girl. As for the lessons she has learned during this competition, she says, “One of which is that the world is filled with so many, wonderful and talented individuals. I, therefore, learned that to be successful in what I do, I must never stop learning and I should keep honing my singing skills.”

Her advice to those who want to follow in her footsteps: “Be original. If you want to standout, make sure that you are not copying any artist, no matter how famous they are. Also, although it is a competition, focus more on your own strengths and compete with yourself. And lastly, have fun!

Not everyone gets the chance to be in your shoes, so savour the moment!”

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ILLUSTRADO STUFF >

NIKON D500

In terms of performance and processing power, nothing beats a DSLR. And when a DSLR is compact, portable, and social-media ready – well, that’s pretty much unbeatable!

The new Nikon D500 is at the very top of Nikon’s DX line of cameras.

It’s packed with the Nikon trademark standards of imaging perfection, in a streamlined camera body that’s perfect for travelers and street photographers. Plus, it comes equipped with the Snapbridge app which makes transferring photos to your smart device and posting them on social media a breeze!

Money can’t buy happiness, but admit it - sometimes you just gotta have your stuff! Get a load of these interesting, very Illustrado sundry.

Can’t live without ‘em!

GLOW KIT BY ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS

ZPIZZA

It’s not enough to look made-up. Chiiild, you have to glow! And nothing gives you that ethereal, fresh-off-a-diamond-peel luminosity like the Glow Kit by Anastasia Beverly Hills. It’s 6 metallic, super pigmented highlighting powders in varying shades of fabulous! Use ‘em to accentuate your cheekbones, brow bones, Cupid’s bow and the bridge of your nose. Available at www.sephora.ae.

We at Team Illustrado pride ourselves in being pizza connoisseurs. If there is good pizza to be found, we will find it. We will sniff it out wherever it’s hiding. And what a joy it was to have found ZPizza. Not only do they offer some of the best-tasting pizza in the market, they also use 100% organic tomato sauce, offers gluten-free options, and even has vegan cheese available for the plant-based eaters!

Check them out at www.zpizza.ae.

NUTRIBULLET

Every once in a while, we like to feel virtuous about what we eat in the office.

That’s when we forego the usual fastfood deliveries and take-outs and opt for our trusty Nutribullet. What makes it better than the usual blender? For one, it’s more compact, so it doesn’t occupy a lot of space. But more importantly, the blitzing power is simply superb! It pulverizes fruits and veggies in about half the time it takes for a regular blender. And on top of all of that, you can use the same blending vessel as your own personal cup. Winner!

SURAT JOURNALS

If you are a bibliophile, you are going to fall in love with these beautiful, leather-bound journals handmade by renowned travel blogger Kenneth Surat! It bears repeating: these are handmade. How Kenneth finds the time work on these lovely tomes himself, we may never know, but the result is truly exquisite. Made from finely crafted recycled paper. Check out Kenneth’s website to learn more: www. kennethsurat.com. illustrado go>38

COMMUNITY >

#ILLUSTRADOSQUADGOALS I l l u st r a d o ’ s F i r st Eve r I n sta meet

H

ailed as the selfiest people in the world, Filipinos are among the most – if not THE most – social media savvy people in the world.

Naturally, we are good at curating our content, whether it’s about fashion, food, lifestyle, street photography, portrait, or even the simplest of things. We can turn “ordinary” into “double tap-worthy!”

Knowing this, it comes as no surprise that some of the UAE’s best, most prolific and creative content creators just happen to be Filipinos.

Recently, we gathered some of the best Instagrammers and bloggers we know for our first ever Instameet – an event that we judiciously called #IllustradoSquadGoals.

The brief was simple: come join us for a casual dinner at the fabulous Fumé Neighborhood Eatery in Pier 7 at the Dubai Marina. What started out as a relaxed gettogether of writers, visual artists, and style

savants turned into a dynamic exchange of ideas, networking, and of course – a boatload of picture-taking and vlogging!

“At Illustrado, we’re all about empowering communities and super-charging creative minds,” says Lalaine Chu-Benitez, EditorIn-Chief of Illustrado Magazine. “As Filipinos, we need to be responsible for nurturing each other’s growth, because we’re all in this together. Our platform has always been about openness and inclusiveness. Hindi na uso yung kami-kami, kanya-kanya, sila-sila. What happens to one happens to all of us, so we might as well make good things happen.”

Thank you to Fumé for the wonderful eats!

Check ‘em out at www.fume-eatery.com, or call +9714 421 5669.

All photos taken by Mark Maniego.

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BEAUTY > Kagandahan 101

New Y ear, New B eauty Hacks!

By> Louise Monique

When it comes to make-up and beauty, there are timeless tricks that never go out of style, but there are some that should just go away but wouldn’t. Let’s ditch the old tricks that doesn’t work, shall we? It’s time to unlearn them and learn some beauty updated beauty hacks!

1.Over plucking or shaving your brows Unless your peg is Clara Bow and you’re living in the 1920s…stop! Just stop. Please do yourself a favor and never over pluck or shave your eyebrows to draw a new one.

Ever heard of threading? Or if that sounds too daunting, then consider microblading.

2. Outlining your lips with a dark lip liner and using a light lipstick

Overdrawing the lips for a fuller effect is in but that trend from the 80’s where you use a brown lip liner and nude lipstick is not.

3. Tattoo eyeliner

I never understood why anyone would want tattoo eyeliner. For one, it’s painful as hell.

Yes, it stays forever but also fades and why would you want something that permanent on your face?

4.Curling your eyelashes after putting mascara

Just stop! Doing this makes your lashes fall out! Curl first, mascara next.

5. Not washing your face because you want to look made up when you wake up

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I know doing make-up could be such a hassle sometimes but that’s not an excuse to not completely remove and wash off your make-up EVERY SINGLE DAY. That’s just plain disgusting and a surefire way to speed up the ageing process of your skin. If you want to look 50 when you’re 30, by all means…stop washing your face and keep the piling that make-up on your face!

6. Matching your eye shadow with the color of your outfit

Erm, matchy-matchy much? Color coordination is a thing to consider but don’t take it literally. If you’re wearing a blue top, your eyeshadow or your lipstick doesn’t have to be blue, you know?

7. Pricking your pimples

This is the worst thing you could do on your face. I know it’s oddly satisfying to prick that spot on your face but please don’t.

The best thing to do is get a facial wash with salicylic acid to dry that red spot but until then…leave it alone! Pricking your pimples could cause skin irritation and worse, infection. At all cost, avoid pricking a pimple on the danger triangle of your face – from the bridge of your nose to the sides of your mouth.

8. Shaving/waxing your face

Ladies, raise your hands if you shave or wax your full face. Okay, now lower that raised hand promise to never do it again.

I understand that we all want our skin to be soft and silky like but shaving your full face could lead to different skin problems like ingrown hair, blackheads, pimples, skin irritation etc.

9. Bleaching facial/body hair

This one is worse than shaving or waxing your facial hair. Bleaching doesn’t actually remove hair; it just lightens the hair above the follicle and nothing more. It can also cause skin pigmentation and discoloration.

So stop doing this!

10. Applying a streak of blusher

Ever heard of the term ‘blending’? You would look more blushing rather than scary a clown if you blend that streak of blusher.

This applies to everything you put on your face may it be foundation, eyeshadow, contour, blush – blend it! Blending would never ever go out of style, I can guarantee you that.

LA-LA-LA-LIFESTYLE

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Live your life…style!

HOW TO KEEP UP WITH THE INFAMOUS NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS By > Joseph Alcantara | @flywithjoseph

E

veryone’s great at making resolutions, but only a handful can successfully pull them off.

Commitment and consistency are the usual suspects why we fail, yet there are ways to overcome these challenges. Simply apply these practical tips and half of the job’s done.

1. WRITE THEM DOWN A tangible reference serves as a perpetual reminder. Either on paper or on your e-gadget, what’s key is the physical list of ‘must do’s’ that you’ve written.

Authoring such piece is a self-awareness exercise that’s meant to inspire and ignite self-improvement actions. Keep your list simple, but aspirational – the items shouldn’t be over the top, but hard enough to challenge you to be better.

2. MAKE IT ACCESSIBLE Keep your list handy. This way, you won’t have much of an excuse about forgetting what you’re supposed to be accomplishing.

When you’re tempted to drop the ball or procrastinate, access your list for enlightenment. Remember, you’re doing this for yourself not for anyone else, so make it an arm’s reach away – doing so will help to sustain your motivation when the New Year fever’s finally over.

3. REVIEW REGULARLY It’s not an exaggeration if I’d suggest that you revisit your list daily. Not only will it

allow you to keep your focus, but will also push your limits on resolutions involving change in behaviour. If you failed on certain items today, you’re reminded to do better tomorrow. Bottomline, familiarity brings comfort, acceptance and habit – use it to your advantage.

4. CONSIDER MILESTONES You wouldn’t want to feel overwhelmed and burdened by your self-imposed intentions.

Turn the pressure off by cutting your resolutions to bite-size pieces in terms of timing and results. Recognize your progression and give yourself a pat on the back for each milestone. If aiming for weight loss, smile for every pound gone. If quitting smoking, high five for every craving resisted. You are your own cheerleader – make sure you deliver your cheers and stunts well.

5. KEEP IT REAL ‘A sound financial state via substantial savings and investments’ is a resolution.

‘Hoping to win the lottery’ is pure luck.

See the difference? If the desired result is achievable with your own efforts, then you’re safe. It’s great to aim for the stars, but understand what’s realistic and attainable. Having this sense check in place is vital to avoid unnecessary frustrations and disappointments.

about the idea. You didn’t waste your energy to just fail in the end. Embrace the ‘never say die’ thinking especially when the odds aren’t on your favour.

Interestingly, implementing resolutions may be considered a mind game – you’ll be clouded by counterproductive thoughts but you’d have to keep the faith and your emotions managed. Every waking morning, get up to win and you’ll be conditioned for success.

7. SHARE WITH OTHERS Make those resolutions public. A bunch will be skeptical and will wait til you give up, but the majority will be great supporters, encouraging you to make it to the finish line. Sharing will also add confidence and a positive pressure to yourself (and your ego) that you won’t let failure be an option.

And if you end up with flying colours, your experience may even inspire others to follow suit.

8. CELEBRATE AND REWARD YOURSELF If you’ve managed to tick the boxes come yearend, raise a glass and celebrate your success. Wear the ‘success story’ badge and be proud of your achievement. Get yourself a tangible reward as an icing on top, but you’ll feel the real reward from within – a profound sense of fulfilment and self-actualisation that’s truly liberating.

6. ACE THE WINNING MINDSET You started this because you’re pragmatic

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PINOY ENTREPRENEUR

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There’s no business like Pinoy business!

Fourté was created with two equally strong core activities of events management and style consultancy. The team specializes in an overall service experience for destination weddings and all the surrounding preparation and organization of the event, including the styling of the entire outfit of the entourage, location setup, photo shoot, among others.

fourté Events Management and Style Consultancy www.teamfourte.com

The Business Fourté’s mission objective: create lasting memories through beautiful, thoughtfully executed events.

The idea for the company came about over a casual dinner of adobo, pansit, and puto.

The members of the team were very good, like-minded friends to begin with, which made the leap into the entrepreneurial venture feel organic. Khel Recuenco has over a decade of luxury travel expertise and has also numerous experiences in arranging weddings in the Philippines.

Abbey Ramos is a fashion stylist and a certified nurse, Ivan Lester is the overall IT and production master, while Joana Bacallo has always had a keen business acumen, and a starong advocacy for water and sanitation.

Their Process Since the nature of the business entails an extraordinary amount of direct consultation and planning with clients, the team frequently works in creative shared spaces and even cafés around the city.

This gives them the operational mobility to address clients’ concerns, coordinate with suppliers, and set up and attend meetings quickly. “As much as we would love to just sit in the office all day, that’s not the kind of business that we have,” Khel testifies.

“Client servicing occupies more than half of our operations, so we ensure that we are able to attend to our stakeholders’ needs

Photo by Joeam Aldea

anytime, anywhere.” As wedding planning relies heavily on efficient vendor relations, Fourté has developed a unique database of suppliers that are unfailingly aligned with the company’s superlative standards of excellence.

Coming from a strong background in fashion, with Khel and Ivan Lester having completed courses on Styling at the University of Arts in London, fourté works very closely with designers to make sure that the clients’ needs for visual impact

are met without fail nor compromise. Ivan Lester elaborates: “I’m proud to say that one of our team’s greatest strengths is aesthetics. We like big, memorable visuals – from the design of the wedding gown, to the venue styling, right down to the photos and video coverage. And we’re very happy that we’ve had the chance to work with clients who put their faith on our taste and ability to make ideas happen.”

Despite being a relative newcomer in the wedding industry, Fourté has already secured an impressive portfolio of wellexecuted events in Dubai, as well outside of the UAE. They are building a reputation as destination wedding specialists, having organized a full-scale wedding recently in Seychelles. The team emphasizes a “No Wedding Package Policy,” as they believe that no two weddings are the same, hence each wedding must be met using a personalized, bespoke approach.

Get in touch : Fourté Events Management and Style Consultancy | Info@teamfoute. com | +97150 6293723

Photo by Sam Coran

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Photo by Metro Photo. Michael Cinco gown sourced by fourte

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

WE LEFT AS HUMANS Band

Our Art Music has always been a huge part of our lives. We can’t really see ourselves not doing anything musically. For us, music is the purest form of connection you can make with other people. It is the language of the soul. It inspires us to be better human beings. It is also the medium that we use to inspire others. We all started playing music at an early age. Listening to our parents’ records and being inspired by playing live music. Watching a lot of our favorite band concerts on VHS tapes to playing on a band with your high school friends.

Our Process It is very special with this band. Mikkoy, David and I, Cromwell - we are the main song writers of this band and it’s really all just about who comes up with a melody first. Once the melody has been finalized it sort of automatically drives us to a direction were we already know where to play our parts in that song. It’s something magical, as we don’t even need to spend a lot of time to create a song. We just let our instincts and emotions drive us. That’s why you’ll get a different vibe with track.

I think that what makes our music original.

We try to bend the emotion of each song.

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It’s like telling a story. Once the melody parts of the guitar are done, we will then go to our bassist James and drummer Axell to create the back bone of the song. This is where we decide the tempo and how heavy we want the parts to be.

Our Identity As to how we identify ourselves as a group of musicians, Cholo Juan, an artist friend of ours, really said it best:

“From reality to the innermost of our consciousness. We traveled through time and space. Just like an exploding nebula, the sounds shooting, twirling, forming into words. Sounds become words, words become neurons. Pulsating, transmitted in different parts of our brains and all throughout the body. Leaving an ultimate sensation track after track. We are a vessel traveling into the vastness of universe, hearing every heartbeat of the stars. We left reality, realizing our existence. We left time and space, staying in our consciousness, We Left As Humans.”

I guess it’s the emotional connection we make with people that makes this band special. “Transforming the venue into a drive of ethereal nostalgia,” as what our

friend Viztoni from the band Verdad said.

We play post rock, math rock, ambient music, but we have lots of influences, as we’ve been exposed to different type of musical genres while growing up. We’ve only played 4 gigs including our most recent album launch at Zephyr Sports Bar. That’s probably one of the most fun gigs that we’ve ever had, as we had all our friends supporting the show. We also sold out our album and we are really grateful for the feedback we’ve been getting.

Moving forward…

We’re currently writing new songs for the next album. We have so many music on the pipeline that we can’t wait to share with everyone. I’m also on the process of writing the script for the comic book were releasing. The 6 songs on the album represents 6 chapters of a comic book series. We are also working with a local based film director on shooting the series of the music videos.

Our advice to our fellow artists Just keep on playing and don’t be afraid to experiment. Be honest with yourself, and most of all, have fun while doing it.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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We are a vessel traveling into the vastness of universe, hearing every heartbeat of the stars. We left reality, realizing our existence.

We left time and space, staying in our consciousness, We Left As Humans.

Photo by Francis John Contreras

> We Left As Humans

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

>

Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

Melon Quinzon Perez Filmmaker

same year one of our images received an award with the Artistic Guild in Wedding Photojournalist Association (AGWPJA).

We started shooting wedding videos in 2010 and we apply the same story-telling style. And this year, we tried our luck by joining the 48hr Film Project. With God’s grace, we won 2nd place, Best in Writing and Most Promising Film Maker, for a film we entitled, “Aurora.” Our main actor, Danabelle Gutierrez, won Best Actress.

My Craft Wedding and events photography is my current profession, though I am a graduate of Bachelor in Interior Design from UP Diliman. I always had a passion for art since I was a kid. I must have gotten it from my parents who both loved to draw and paint. I also watched a lot of movies and I especially loved those that tell a good story.

I first came to Dubai in 2003 and worked as Visual Merchandiser in to big furniture companies and a cosmetic brand. My husband and I founded The MelRish Studio back in 2009 after we received our own wedding photos and videos and we were not happy with them. They lacked the story-telling aspect. Our first wedding coverage was our friend’s wedding and we decided it to shoot in a way that tells their story. After that, we received bookings and on our first year we traveled to India for two destination weddings and the

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I think the best part of what I do is when we get appreciation from our clients because we have told their story that touched their hearts. For me, when the stories we tell touch hearts or inspire people, we feel happy and that inspires us to work harder and do better.

My Process For weddings and events, we look for the one thing that makes it special. We look at the whole picture and we try our best to capture real emotions. We put together these aspects and add the music that will complement the story we want to tell.

Witnessing beautiful stories like these keeps my creative juice flowing and inspires me everyday. My family and friends inspire me too to strive to improve our craft.

For Aurora, from the time we picked the genre, we only had 48hrs to produce the film. This time, we had full control of what story we wanted to tell. This was an opportunity for me to share something inspiring…something that will impart a lesson to its viewers. I thought about the

people who got bullied for their looks.

Since the genre that we picked was Film De Femme, I thought that the movie should be about empowering women and encouraging them to have confidence.

Since we started photography in 2009, our clients loved how our images and video tell the story and how unobtrusive we are when we shoot their weddings. I think that is what differentiates our work. We continually evolve our style but we still keep our foundations on story-telling. Our images have won several quarterly contests with AGWPJA and our first ever film won awards at the 48Hr Film Project. Client praises and appreciation are also awards for us.

My Journey, Moving Forward We would want to produce and write 2 or 3 more films this year if time permits. Our company is also currently undergoing a rebranding. We are planning big changes to improve the company.

When I first watched Toy Story, I told myself that I would someday want to work for Pixar. I want to write and conceptualize stories like that. It is still a far-off dream and I am still a million steps away with a lot of other things in between me and that dream. But I already took the biggest step which is the first step.

My advice to everyone is to never stop dreaming and do not be afraid to take the first step. People will discourage you, but you only have to listen to your own heart and have faith in God and faith in yourself.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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I think the best part of what I do is when we get appreciation from our clients because we have told their story that touched their hearts. For me, when the stories we tell touch hearts or inspire people, we feel happy -and that inspires us to work harder and do better.

> Melrish Photography > MelRish Photos and Films > www.melrish.com

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ILLUSTRAGRAMMERS

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A roundup of the Instagrammers we love

It’s 2017, and as we put last year’s negativities to bed, we say hello to the Instagram residents we just discovered. They are so good, we could literally spend our entire day just looking at their feeds!

BEAUTY AND LIFESTYLE BLOGGER FROM MANILA, CHESSICA IS A TOTAL CHICSPIRATION, MEANING, SHE IS THE KIND OF CHICK THAT MOST GIRLS WANT TO BE LIKE. IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR AN INSPIRATION FOR YOUR NEXT OOTD OR A NEW SHADE OF LIPSTICK YOU SHOULD TRY, CHECK THIS GIRL’S FEED! CHESSY MIRASOL @chesymirasol

A BLOGGER, DANCER AND A SOON TO BE ARCHITECT, THIS GUY’S INSTAGRAM FEED IS TOTALLY WORTH CHECKING OUT! FEAST ON THE URBAN AND STYLISH FEED MIKO CREATES. MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT HIS TRAVEL PHOTOS! MIKO CARREON @mikocarreon

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ILLUSTRAGRAMMERS

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A roundup of the Instagrammers we love

IT TOOK US A WHILE TO GATHER THESE PHOTOS BECAUSE HIS PROFILE IS TRULY A TOTAL HOTSPOT FOR ARTSY AND MINIMALIST PHOTOS. GET SOME IDEAS ON HOW TO GET THE FEEL OF HIS FEED BY GOING VISITING TO HIS ACCOUNT. ANJO MERCADO @talesandwaves

ABEER IS A CERTIFIED BOOK GEEK BUT FASHION AND STYLE ARE TWO THINGS SHE IS NOT DEFINITELY MISSING OUT ON! THE BOOKS ON HER FEED ARE NOT JUST INSTAGRAM PROPS, SHE ACTUALLY READS THEM ALL SO IF YOU’RE SCOUTING FOR A NEW BOOK TO READ, CHECK OUT HER PROFILE. ABEER @lookingforabura

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CURATED FASHION

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Tips and tricks from the Internet’s best Pinoy style savants!

DANAH GUTIERREZ E D I T O R - I N - C H I E F, P L U M P. P H

When I asked my mentor how she’d describe my style, she said, “fancy madam!” I’d like to think I lean towards glamour and young elegance, my influence has always been the 60s and the classy, vintage fashion the era showcased. I can be laid back when I want, but on most days, I really like looking womanly with tasteful accessories. I cannot leave the house without my earrings and Mom’s hand-me-down Rolex watch.

1

I love my aviator shades from Lily + Olivia. It was sunny day but the winds were cold so I wore my Debenhams trench coat with a striped turtle neck for a classy, polished look.

I’m wearing a black bell-sleeved dress I designed for our collab with Nariz Ong! I love the chic silhouette it creates. I made it a deep V, empire-cut dress because it flatters my body that way. It opens up the neck and it drapes my tummy beautifully.

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My nude on nude combo when I watched Cinderella the ballet show at Aliw Theater!

I designed my light coat and had it made by Nariz Ong. I love that I can wear it in the tropics because the fabric is very breathable. Its length elongates me and I think it looks effortlessly elegant.

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2 4

I love this custom dress by Tina Lirag. Its structure and simplicity really brings out my shape, and the way caped sleeves add drama to the whole look. I wore it for our Christmas dinner with my fur vest from Marks and Spencer.

WEARING IT WELL

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How to work it when you wear it coz you’re worth it.

CASEY ESGUERRA M A R K E T I N G R E P R E S E N TAT I V E , M O D E L

What role does fashion play in your daily life?

I really think the way I present myself plays a major role in my career. I currently work 6 times a week as a marketer and I do part-time modelling in Dubai 2-3 times a month. It is quite overwhelming how many people I encounter every single day.

Do you consider the “regular you” a fashionable person?

To be honest, I am a type of person who prefers to be in a comfy pair of pyjamas at all times. However, my fashion sense changes constantly

depending on what I do. I’ve always enjoyed dressing up, since I was little.

So, I think it is an 80% yes.

What do you typically wear daily? What’s your favorite thing to wear?

Majority of my closet contains corporate outfits but I have this skirt that I wish I could wear every day at work. It’s below the knee length, comfy, black pencil skirt that matches all types of top and shoes and I think I’m obsessed with it.

What can’t you live without?

Can’t really function well without my

watch. I even have a wristwatch tan line (Thanks, Desert Sun).

What is your fashion philosophy?

No matter what you wear, it’s always about how you carry it.

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MONEY

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Make money. Maintain that money. Money pa more!

INVEST IN THE NEW YEAR By> Francisco Colayco

Unfortunately, more people prefer to get rich the easy way and as fast as possible. They want to enjoy the money they believe they will be getting very quickly. This is why scams continue to proliferate and fool so many people.

Let me greet you all a Joyful, Peaceful, Healthy and Prosperous 2017!

It is time to take stock and change or reform ourselves for the better. Nobody is perfect and spiritual and inspirational articles abound to lift up our lives. What I noticed though is that we tend to compartmentalize our lives. In particular, our financial lives are considered by most as separate from their spiritual and intellectual activities. The fact is that all of these are intertwined. Since I have focused my advocacy on teaching personal financial management, I frequently interpret these inspirational principles in the light of our financial lives.

In his book, “The Nature of Success”, he talks about a lesson he learned from a friend’s grandmother. Mac was having such a rough week and his friend shared with him what his grandmother told him to always remember: ‘Inch by inch, life’s a cinch. Yard by yard, life is hard.’

Mac took the line to heart and took out a piece of paper and listed all the things he had to do in the next three days. As he

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finished each task, he crossed it out from the list. Three days later, he crossed out the last task left on the list. He felt great!

As Mac explains, “…Success doesn’t come cascading like Niagara Falls; it comes one drop at a time through short-term, realistic goals. If you believe you can do something (the goals are realistic), you’re likely to be highly motivated. If, however, you think you can’t (because the goals are unrealistic) your motivation level falls greatly…”

THE QUICKEST WAY TO GET RICH QUICK IS TO GET RICH SLOW.

Unfortunately, more people prefer to get rich the easy way and as fast as possible.

They want to enjoy the money they believe they will be getting very quickly. This is why scams continue to proliferate and fool so many people.

Scams give promises of bigger than normal income every month or even everyday, in some cases. It is so easy to want to believe when the first thought that should come to mind is if the promise is even realistic.

If it is not, then why even be motivated to

believe in it. This is when the next part of the scam comes in. They give the names of people who have already invested and are already receiving the returns. When you check with these people if the claim is true and they so confirm, the inevitable follows. You end up investing and sad to say, the “Get Rich Quick” becomes “Lose Everything”.

In some cases, at the start, the money does come in as expected. As the money comes in though, it is almost automatic that the money is spent in frivolous WANTS. After all, more money is expected to come in regularly so why not enjoy. Some scams last for years and at the end of it all, the scammer tells the investor that the investor got his money back anyway through the regular interest paid. That is true but it has all been spent. At the end, the Investment is all gone and even the WANTS purchased are no longer important.

In a real investment with realistic longterm goals, the returns come in, reinvested (compounding principle) and kept intact. At the end of the period, both the investment and the earnings are kept safe.

SENSE AND SPIRITUALITY

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Finding your true self as you make sense of the world

SPIRITUAL RESOLUTIONS By>

Roman Guevara

@harold.evangelista

I

t’s not just your lifestyle that needs resolving, or your job, or your relationships. If you really desire a fuller, better 2017, then you must resolve the one thing that you can only truly change – yourself. Here are some advice on how you can begin on a sweeter, spiritual note.

Decide to move on from the past Whether it’s a good thing or a bad thing, if it’s in the past, get over it. It’s time to move on. The new year can be a better year for you, but you have to let go. Let go of the hurts, failures, and disappointments.

Don’t allow these things that ruined your previous year to ruin your next.

Let go even of your past achievements.

You can be grateful for them, but always remind yourself that they are finished. Their glory days are behind you now. It’s no use basking on them any longer. They may even hinder you from moving forward in life.

What has passed is past.

Pray This sounds so simple, but it’s not. Not everyone prays. Not everyone knows how, even if they really want to. But prayer works. If you don’t know how to pray, ask

someone who does to pray for you.

This became even more clearer to me when a couple visited me at my office in Al Barsha. We talked about a lot of stuff, like family, relationships, work, business, disappointments in life. And through our conversation, it was not hard to figure out that they were not very religious – but neither were they unbelieving of God. So I asked them at the end of our conversation if they would permit me to pray for them.

And they said yes. I prayed like I always do.

I prayed for them to receive strength and guidance. I prayed that they may receive more blessings in life. And unexpectedly, both of them began to tear up. And after the prayer time was over, the guy came up to me and said he was touched by the experience, as he had not prayed for almost 30 years! He had his reasons. He shared a little more about it to me. But one thing is for sure, he got spiritually renewed.

You may not know how to pray, but you can always find someone who does to pray for you. It could be a relative, a friend, an officemate, a flatmate, a minister in church.

Who knows, it could even be your husband or wife.

What’s even more productive is when you learn how to pray yourself. Mind you, your prayer doesn’t have to be award-winning! It does not have to be colorful words. It does not have to be long. But what is for sure, and this I always say, that when you pray, you pray from your heart. Don’t edit what is on your mind. Just say it. Say what comes.

Pour it out.

You may stumble at the start. But believe me, it gets better.

Declare positive things Every now and then we get to read inspirational quotes posted on social media. Some of them from google, some of them from celebrities, some of them from authors, and quite many of them from the Bible.

Find yours – or even better, write yours.

And when you’ve found your quote, declare it every day. If possible, declare it as soon as you wake up, and repeat it at times when you feel most challenged. When you are feeling down. Practice making positive declarations. I believe this; there is power in the spoken word.

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ILLUSTRADO NOM NOMS > Because we. Love. FOOD.

A Wor ld Of Good Eats at Shores JBR By> Rosan Katlea Reodica

If you want to travel the world by taste, go to Shores Brunch.

Shores is a nondescript hotel restaurant in Ramada Plaza, JBR. Thick heavy tables and chairs filled the space, with a couple of cool grannies on one side, fresh from the beach ladies on the other, a sprinkle of couples both young and old on opposite ends and the teasing buffet spread on the far corner. We came on a normal Friday and was seated window side – of course for proper food shots in natural lighting. It was still a tad dark for me given it was a cheery afternoon outside, everything was slightly gilded in gold or leather, a bit too oldie style for me and I was ready to bolt out for a breather but the chef was cooking fresh pasta and the scent was very tempting. And so of course, we stayed.

The food selection looked as how a buffet should like. Starters of a variety of fresh bread, soup, gazpachos and salads were artistically styled to confuse you and whet your appetite. It was all so colorful that my eyes hurt and I salivated at the same time.

I started with cold mussels, watermelon gazpacho that had the right hint of spiciness, fully stuffed vine leaves, sushi, pastrami, blue cheese and a Greek salad. I took my time savoring each and every bite as their selection was literally a trip around the world. Asian, Mediterranean, English, Arabic, whaaat? All these? No wonder it won the prestigious and go-to reference of foodies What’s On ‘Best International

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Brunch Under 300’. We had to keep coming back to the spread as we didn’t want to miss out on anything and we were rewarded with the best beef and pumpkin cold salad plus a stir fry section where you pick your veggies and meat and the chef magically makes it a savory, hunger busting dish. These were just the starters.

And there is no better way to describe everything so far than the word F-R-E-S-H. This brunch doesn’t need any gimmicks to have full bookings. It’s just fresh food, LOTS OF IT. Our mains were freshly cooked pasta, Mediterranean chicken that kind of reminded me of chicken afritada x menudo, breakfast staples of chicken sausages, smoked turkey, beans and hashbrowns, grilled vegetables and roast beef. I wonder why I wasn’t feeling umay - not one bit.

I surmise that it is because the flavors of the food did not one-up each other, meat was all tender, flavors not too strong and the curation was properly thought of. Not a mish-mash of everything. Not one taste to be wasted. Dessert however was one way to up the amp for the international flavors, but we were limited to fruits, cheesecakes and cheesecakes and mousse cups and mousse cups but the Dutch origin malva pudding spoke to me in all the languages it can, the best being, “GRABE ANG SARAAAAAP ANONG MAGIC ITO?!”

The wait staff gave us the space to pig out, no judgement, “We’ll be here on the side if you need refills of your juice but please please have some more”. The chefs were

ready to create the best stir-fry and pastas you’d conjure with ingredients you pick, and tables were cleared swiftly for the next batch of yum.

Why haven’t you been to Shores yet?

- Great selection for under 300 dhs - Bring your parents here. They would love you a million times more.

- The cheapest and freshest way to tour the world by taste - Malva pudding. Yes. Shores, please do:

- Reconsider your music selection - Upgrade the interiors, it’s very hotel lobby-ish! I know it’s a hotel but the design doesn’t match your contemporary flair!

Make it more Instagrammable! Kidding, but not really.

Overall rating: 4/5

SHORES RESTAURANT | Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach, Dubai UAE | +9714-4398888 | info@ramadaplazajbr.com | www. ramadaplazajbr.com/

ILLUSTRADO NOM NOMS > Because we. Love. FOOD.

SpiceKlu b’s Molecu l ar Gastrono-burp By> Rosan Katlea Reodica

Nestled quietly in Bur Dubai, SpiceKlub is a new player in the Indian cuisine foodie scene. For someone who’s a fan of the soul food of South Asia, all I have experienced of the food from this region are two extremes – thali eateries where you must line up, and proper fine dining on spiced grills paired with gourmet curries.

Stepping into SpiceKlub, I was waiting for that strong aromatic waft of scent from the bustling kitchen. There was none. We didn’t know yet if that was a good sign.

The olfactory experience was so subtle (yet lingering) that each table we passed leading to ours, I had to crane my neck and do a guessing game on each dish. If one can say classy quirky kitsch, this resto has got it in spades. Kites, swings, tires, mismatched neon pillows and kaleidoscope colors add desi punch to the exposed brick and ceiling industrial feel. This was a good introduction to the flavors we were about to enjoy that night. Ambience: check!

It was our first time to try “molecular gastronomy cuisine” and oh boy, going beyond it being a fad, mas napamahal ako sa science! Wonderfully putting chemistry processes and natural food ingredients together, this type of cuisine delivers a feast on texture, food art, and flavor. We were expecting food to be served in laboratory styled equipment but thank goodness SpiceKlub didn’t have to go all nerdy on us.

We were first served our drinks, a masala mojito spiced just right and my favorite – the “chewable” drink, Mango on the Rocks.

Here’s where the start of playing with food appealed to me. We had to pour warm mango juice on cold mango pulp infused with liquid nitrogen to form a mushy pulpy drink that needed to be scooped out. I made sure not to eat/drink it all up as I saw the plethora of dips and chutneys that needed to be washed down. Complimentary dips are my weaknesses and I enjoyed the red cabbage with walnuts, mango, black olives with chilies and tamarind chutneys.

Then we were served with a dish of green foam and it was heavenly! Called Papdi Chaat, it was crispy spherical breads topped with yogurt and chili foam. Unusual and very delicious! Next came some thin crispy papad smothered with melty cheese and topped with coriander and chilies. I will call this my dream “pizza” from now on. Crumbs and all, we stuffed our face with this North Indian blessing. As if the cheesiness wasn’t enough, in comes the fondue(!!!). Pav Bhaji is apparently a street food masala served with pav or bread fried in butter. But SpiceKlubs version is class mga teh! Creamy decadent buttery fondue with a heaping of sweet red onions to be dipped with chopped up buttery bread.

Are you salivating now?! I think this was cheese wonderland as the next dish that angels sang for was a grilled cottage cheese kebab or palak with ginger foam.

Sadly we were too full and wanted to make room for dessert as we just nibbled on a few spoonfuls of their roti wrapped soya beans in a bed of spicy cheesy masala sauce. We had to spend a good 15 minutes taking videos and pictures of the desserts

served as were entertained with their minttopped chocolate flower pot, which one has to break open in pistachio “soil.”And then came the falooda to end our night at SpiceKlub on a high note. It came in pulpy, popcorn-like texture on which one has to pour ice cream with rose syrup. Each spoonful was a surprise of basil seeds and pieces of jelly, I wanted a second tummy that night!

You will not get overwhelmed as the waiters were all very knowledgeable and stutter free from the “complicated” fusion their food is. While the resto was busy, each filled table had full attention and an enjoyable playful meal.

Bookmark SpiceKlub ASAP. - Unique food experience - Everything is entertainment in itself - Fairly priced You might want to reconsider if you’re a boring “All I want is curry” foodie. Live!

Eat SpiceKlub now, pretty please, with chili foam on top ☺

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

SPICEKLUB | Shop 2, Al Rafaa C Building, , Mankhool, Bur Dubai UAE |04 4371668 | www.spiceklub.com illustrado go>55

LAW > Get right with the rules. Here’s how.

Legal advice from The People’s Lawyer, Barney Almazar,Esq.

petition to declare your marriage null and void – annulment in the Philippines; or (d) file for divorce in the UAE. 3 months na ako sa kumpanya, wala pa rin akong visa! Ano na laaang???

If you entered the UAE on a tourist or visit visa, keep in mind that working without a valid employment contract or visa is illegal. Even if this is the popular practice, palaging tatandaan na basta naka tourist or visit visa hindi ka pwede mag-trabaho.

If the immigration finds out na nagtrabaho ka while on visit visa, then you can be held liable for a fine of at least AED 5,000 and risk being blacklisted from entering the country. May penalty din ang employer mo.

Tanong: Iniwan ako ng mister ko para sa ibang babae! Ano na laaang???

Una sa lahat, nasaan ang mister mo at saan siya nambabae?

If your husband is in the UAE and you have sufficient evidence to prove that he and his mistress or kabit engaged in illicit sexual activities, you can file a case for consensual sex under Article 356 of the UAE Penal Code. The penalty for both of them will be a minimum jail term of one year followed by deportation.

On the other hand, if the act was committed in the Philippines, you can file a concubinage case against them.

Remember na hindi sapat na nambabae lang ang asawa mo. He should also commit the following:

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• kept his mistress in the conjugal dwelling; • had sexual intercourse under scandalous circumstances o alam ng buong barangay ang kanilang relasyon; or • cohabited with the mistress in another place.

Kung mapapatunayan na guilty ang iyong mister, he will suffer imprisonment ranging from at least 6 months and 1 day and up to 6 years. Pero para sa kabit, the penalty imposable is destierro – o banishment sa inyong lugar. Take note na hindi pwede na yung kabit lang ang sampahan mo ng kaso.

Dapat kasuhan mo sila pareho.

Your other options are (a) file a petition for legal separation, if your husband has abandoned you for more than one year; (b) file a criminal case under Republic Act 9262 (Violence against Women and Children); (c)

The most prudent step to take under your circumstance is to immediately followup with your employer the status of your employment visa. If they cannot secure your employment visa before the expiration of your visit or tourist visa, you should exit UAE to avoid paying penalties and overstay fines.

Furthermore, the travel agency which issued your tourist visa can also file an absconding case against you if you overstay in the UAE. Even if you are willing to pay the overstay fine, the travel agency can still file an absconding case against you. You will not be able to exit or change your visa status unless the absconding case has been withdrawn. Kung hindi ka talaga ikuha ng employment visa, mag exit ka bago mag-expire ang iyong visit visa at bumalik na lang muli sa UAE under a new visit or employment visa.

PROXY PINOY > Almost Filipino, All Awesome!

Sohini Datta

From Kol kata, India. Al most P inay!

HOW ARE YOU RELATED TO FILIPINOS? The first time I ever met a Filipino was when I started living with one. Danabelle is her name and all things creative is her game. She has been a very strong force in my life, from helping me build Ctrl.Alt. Dxb from scratch to feeding me Filipino sausages during a breakup. A lot of me wouldn’t function without her. Through her, I met a ton of other really cool Filipino kids.

Yay to that!

HOW ARE YOU “ALMOST” FILIPINO, IN TERMS OF CHARACTER, PERSONALITY & PREFERENCES? I come from a very creative community.

India is a country of countries and my hometown, Calcutta (or Kolkata now) is the land of Nobel laureates in Literature, poets, writers, musicians and artists. I think that’s why it is easy to connect to Filipinos, they have the same intellectual and cultural bent of mind that I was brought up in.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE FILIPINOS’ MOST OUTSTANDING TRAITS? THE GOOD AND THE BAD! I think the Filipino community is much underrated, in this region and in the world. They are all very creative. It must run in their blood. You can hand a guitar to a Filipino who has never played one before, and he will start strumming like Eric Clapton under five minutes. I wish the world gave them the acclaim they deserve.

Maybe creativity has something to do with sweets, because just like the Filipino cuisine, my state boasts to be the sweet maker of India. This is why I love a lot of the Filipino snacks. Not so much the cuisine because I am not really into seafood. (I am more a see-food kinda girl!)

Besides that, I think they have impeccable hygiene standards which is again something not everyone knows.

Here’s the funny bit. Every single taxi driver in Dubai insists I am a Filipino. I do not know why. It must be the hair I am guessing. But clearly the resemblance is uncanny.

WHAT IS YOUR MESSAGE TO ALL THE FILIPINOS OUT THERE? Push through, your talent will let you shine. In my opinion, most of the Filipinos I know are happy being famous within the community. Because, sure, it isn’t easy to fight the stereotyping and typecasting that the world loves to do.

I come from a community where everyone hates each other. This is the reason why each one of us managed to push ourselves beyond the walls, into the world.

You guys have a lot of love to give and take, but it also what makes you complacent.

Think beyond. Think world. It will be tough, it will be double the work, triple the failure.

But it will be worth it. It’s time the world found out how talented you guys really are.

Be the next Enrique, the next Caterina Fake (Co-founder of Flickr.) The world is yours to conquer.

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COMMUNITY

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BAYANIHAN 2016: A RESOUNDING TRIUMPH! Bayanihan’ or the spirit of working together was indeed manifested last December 16, 2016 at Dubai World Trade Center as the Filipino Community celebrated The Bayanihan Festival 2016 in the leadership of Chairman Wafa Qasimieh and Vice Chairman Engr. Tata Dayot in partnership with Philippine Consulate General Dubai under the guidance of Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes.

Ambassador Constancio Vingno Jr arrived just in time for the Dakilang Bayani Awarding which he was the presentor.

We also welcomed the new Vice Consul Marianne Bringas, who commenced office at the Philippine Consulate General Dubai on November 2016. Labor Attache Ofelia Domingo also gave a piece of advice to all Filipino Expats who are living in Dubai and Northern Emirates.

The On The Spot Painting contest started simultaneously with the program and the two categories were participated with really talented contestants which resulted with the following winners: Winners NON Professionals: Grand Champion: Charlie Villagracia Runners up: Jason Obelidor and Ma. Rabel Ceprado Student’s Category: Grand Champion: Yvette Margot Runners Up: Eran De Leon and Tyron Aragones The Christmas Lantern and Tree Contest were participated by various organizations and only one emerged as the champion in both contest – The Barangay PunongKahoy group.

The morning session will never be a complete success without the awarding of the first ever search for Dakilang Bayani Awards which was headed by Mr. Rico Cardoniga who also hosted the segment together with Ms. Donnabel Cantila and fully supported by Chairman Wafa Qasimieh. The following are the winners in their respective field: CATEGORIES OF AWARD: (with nomination)

1. AUPAIR ( Helpers and maids) Emelda Ortiz Gutay aka Ameena 2. ENTERTAINMENT - Alvin Pancito

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3. CUSTOMER SERVICE - Jovielyn Castor 4. DRIVER - Nora Manliguis 5. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Jethroel Ramboyong 6. SKILLED WORKER Nina Marie Pureza Juan 7. SALES &amp; MARKETING ( sales ) Genesis Lontoc 8. HOSPITALITY (Hotel, Restaurant, Events) - Salvador Belosillo Jr. 9. SALES &amp; ADVERTISING (advertising, PR) - Kristine Abante 10. HUMAN RESOURCE Sugar Termoso Espadera 11. EDUCATOR - Dr. Nino Decenorio 12. HEALTH CARE ( Nurses, Doctors,Medtech…) - Amy Miranda 13. ACCOUNTANT - Benigno Lebig Jr. 14. HEALTH &amp; SAFETY ( Safety Officer, HSE Engineer) - Joel Nedamo 15. ARCHITECT - Anthony Tario Austria 16. ELECTRICAL ENGINEER Christine Casero Nucas 17. MECHANICAL ENGINEER Rizzabelle C. Mendoza 18. CIVIL ENGINEER Danilo Bartolome Aquino Special Recognition Award by Congen Paul Raymund Cortes : 19. COMMUNITY SERVICE – Mr. Abdulla Pancho Aldea 20. COMMUNITY SERVICE - Engr. Albert Suerte 21. LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE - Dr. Marilyn “Wafa” Qasimieh PhD

Another segment in the afternoon that blew the minds away of the audience because the participants showed impeccable talent was the Voice Kids, participated by 12 children ages 9-12 years old. The grand champion was Zahra Ross Shariff,

together with her runners up: Maika Cheniz Sarmiento and John Jhuriel Barreto.

OSN conducted their Choral Competition and the Grand Winner amongst the 5 participants was The Philippine School who rendered a beautiful medley of Christmas songs.

The night ended with the glamorous search for the 2016 Bayanihan Festival Queen – also a first in this category for Bayanihan festival. The pageant was headed by the 2016 Chairman Dr. Wafa Qasimieh with her Vice Chair Engr. Tata Dayot and supported

by Ms. Josie Conlu-Romulo who served as the Communications and Bayanihan Festival Queen Committee Head and Mr Tom Lladoc as the Program Committee Head.

The grand winners are: Bayanihan Festival Queen 2016: Paula Franchesca Ramirez First Runner Up: Marlyn Armamento Second Runner Up: Kathleen Lausingco Special Awards: Best in Talent: Marlyn Armamento Best in Casual Wear: Kathleen Mae Lausingco Miss Friendship: Paula Franchesca Ramirez Most Facebook Likes: Marlyn Armamento Best in Evening Gown: Maryjane Gama Best in Festival Costume: Marlyn Armamento Miss Photogenic: Maryjane Gama

Bayanihan 2016’s roster of sponsors include Fiesta Pinoy Restaurant the FILCLUB home, OSN, LBC, Travel Wings, Illustrado, and a lot more.

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