ILLUSTRADO JAN 2012

Photo by Eros Goze Hair & make up by Frankie Melendez Bespoke necklace by Garimon Raferos Wrap by Dita Sandico-Ong

EDITOR’S NOTE

Evolving old Resolutions

So, you want a new body, a new car, the latest “it” bag or tablet? Perhaps a new career, a fatter bank account, and maybe even a house back home? At the same time, you tell yourself that you’re going to try and exercise, eat healthier, save some money, probably even learn a new trick or two.

The beginning of the year always calls to mind all that we’re wishing for and what we want to do, as we turn a new leaf. That’s the great thing about new years – it gives us a chance to start all over again with a clean slate and go about improving and enriching our lives.

But while, we’re obsessing about our ‘To Do’ and ‘To Acquire’ lists for the year, it pays to understand that although these things will undoubtedly add some improvement and a few exciting highlights in your own 2012, a lot of them are quite fleeting and superficial, and only serve to feed the never-to-be-sated human hunger.

Will new stuff make you happy? Will a new body change your life? Will a house, a new job and a fat bank account make you content?

This year, why don’t we try and evolve our wants, hopes and wishes from the stuff that we think would finally make us happy, but instead, fall short in filling whatever void we have inside, into something more substantial and ultimately useful?

Instead of the usual, why not acquire the ‘must-have’ of ‘must-haves’ this 2012 – worthy enough to be on top of anybody’s New Year’s resolution?

Gratitude.

Regardless of what faith you practice (or don’t), and before being able to develop positivity, spirituality and abundance, it is good old fashioned thankfulness that will help you change and get you ready to receive goodness into your life.

Being thankful allows you to see and appreciate the blessings, beauty and opportunities which surround you – the things we normally take for granted because we are not conditioned to acknowledge them. And this certainly gives you a “glass half-full” mentality and facilitates a deeper spirituality and trust in a higher being as you come to realize that there is “someone” out there looking out for you – and it doesn’t matter whether you call him Allah or God, the universe, or the Tao. Gratitude will certainly work wonders in your life as it works full circle. The more you are thankful, the more you are attuned to receive and attract goodness and happiness into your life.

Evolve the way you think by acquiring gratefulness this year, and that new body, car, paycheck and all the material acquisitions in your list won’t even matter as much.

It is often said that happiness is a choice, and that couldn’t be more true. Because in reality, inasmuch as you might want to move mountains to change the things around you, the only thing that you can truly change is yourself.

Choose to be thankful, and happiness will come right on its heels.

I should know.

Taas Noo, Filipino!

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

CONTRIBUTORS Alfred “Krip” A. Yuson Evolutionary Trait: Never one to be cryptic, his deliciously wicked wit is so bitingly entertaining that it has earned him the title of The Illuminati.

The fact that he has authored more than 20 literary titles - from poetry, short stories, children’s stories, biographies, and translation - will make it difficult not to see KripYuson’s by-line in the Filipinana section or in a national broadsheet. Add the title of Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature Hall-of-Famer and the UMPIL orWriters’Union of the Philippines’Gawad Balagtas for lifetime achievement, plus a host of other titles and you’ll know that Krip is part of the elite circle of literary royalty.

Bo Sanchez

Evolutionary trait: Has made spirituality something everyone can relate to.

Chances are you know Bo Sanchez through any of the following: reading his best-selling books, attending one of his seminars, or even seen him on TV or online. Bo Sanchez – or Bro. Bo, doesn’t really need any introduction.

Margarita Go Singco Holmes & Jeremy Baer Evolutionary Trait: When it comes to relationships, this husband and wife team can give advice that is both straight up and compassionately gentle.

If there were such a things as the best of both worlds point of view on relationships, it would be the combination of the Dr. Margie Holmes and her husband, Jeremy Baer in their monthly column. Answering honest questions they get from readers, the duo each present their take on the situation: the men’s point of view from the women’s; from the Westerner’s point of view to the Filipina, sometimes the only difference in their advice is the manner by which they deliver it.

Endzo Mondejar

A Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) awardee, best-selling author and respected speaker, Bo relates spirituality to just about every aspect of life: love, financial well-being and just plain old-fashioned happiness with this carefully crafted words of wisdom that have thousands of his fans hanging on his every word.

Bernadette Reyes Evolutionary Trait: Spreading the Taas Noo, Filipino mantra by discovering start up Filipino entrepreneurs and celebrating their ingenuity.

Most people dream of owning their own business and being their own boss.

Senior business reporter for GMA Network News, Bernadette Reyes uncovers these fortunate individuals and gives Illustrado readers a realistic picture of what it takes to run your own business. Bernadette herself is an entrepreneur, an artist, a traveler and a dog lover. During her free time she attends to Braddell, her golden retriever; Bono a beagle and Bernard a shih tzu.

Evolutionary Trait: Captures fashion with both a conceptual mind and a sensual sophistication.

It must have been Enzo Mondejar’s training and education in Fine Arts at the University of Santo Tomas that gave him the audacity to envision and conceptualize on his terms and in his own style. Now, Enzo works as a freelance conceptual photographer, who also takes styling assignmentsforPhilippinetelevisionandfashionshows,while at the same time developing several projects on print and other media. In each medium, his visual artistry has become his unique signature putting him in a roguish league of his own.

Rome Jorge Evolutionary Trait: Spreading the good news about being Pinoy through words and song.

When he isn’t writing about Pinoy pride, Rome is helping musicians sing about it as the proprietor of Strawberry Jams Music Studio for recordings and rehearsals.

When he isn’t jamming, Rome puts on his hat as veteran journalist having worked as a reporter, columnist and lifestyle editor for The Manila Times as well as cover story writer for Mega, Manual and Lifestyle Asia magazines. A Fine Arts graduate from the University of the Philippines, he is also veteran web and graphic designer.

Eric Poliquit

Evolutionary Trait: Creating styles that run that gamut of eclectic to simply stunning and thus paving the way for a wide-spectrum definition of beauty.

Manila based fashion stylist and TV Host, Eric has styled them all in his native Philippines. But this artist doesn’t stop there, he has also styled in Asia and was the head designer for a boutique in the Middle East. Eric’s work shows his ability to feminize the masculine and play on the duality of human sexuality through his visionary style.

4 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Send your letters to: editor@illustrado.net or join the discussion at IIlustrado Magazine’s Facebook page Your face is my face to the world…

A Liza Julao Sweet & Innocent December Fashion Feature The purity of crystals and childhood’s innocence in fairytale frames! Bravo!

Dragana Mitrovic I love the soft lens shots... Bravo les enfants...

Tout est belle... Quelle courage!

Evelyn Vargas-Knaebel Bambino Couture!!! Haute indeed!

Bandoix Flores Nebria Beautiful... to the max... ang galing!

Derick Alli Inspiring Filipino Professionals WOW so enchanting! The age of innocence, congrats to the designers for the lovely Thank you for always giving us Filipinos creations! Salute Eros! The photos are so reasons to be proud of. I love your articles, remarkable and remind me of the great especially your column “It’s What I Do” portraits by the masters. with success stories from different Pinoy professionals. It’s great to see that our It’s become a habit of mine to look at these kababayans are doing well in various jobs photos every moment possible to “refresh” my here in the UAE. It makes even a Dubai stressed being! “newbie” like me hopeful that I will make it Ralph Cruz Ramirez big in my chosen profession someday – as long as I put in hardwork and dedication. Oh cupcakes!!!! So sweet and lovely!

Kudos, Illustrado!

Jewel Rovera Mike Bigornia

From “It’s What I Do” – December 2011 Issue:

So ethereal… the angelic faces gracing your cover.

Joel Villanueva

“Always proactively shake your comfort zone” Super fab this is it ! Love it!

– Rosemarie Tacorda-Ramos.

Jules Quirante My addendum – In doing so, will you be able to grow… So, get out of your comfort zone.

I love this cover... I love the models...very couture...beautiful clothes......

“I am definitely proud to be a Filipino” – Maria Michael Cinco Teresa Molina Talinga My addendum – When you are ashamed of who Love it ...It’s so heavenly you are, you will be fair game for everyone. Patrick Roxas They will use you and abuse you since you are no good anyway. Always be proud.

Iyan ang couture, yan si Joel Villanueva!

Congratulations idol!!

“Know what you want, and when you do, have Adel Zach Francisco the courage to pursue it” – Sherry Tenorio My addendum – Without guts, you will never Very adorable, lil’ supermodels! have the glory. Go for it and enjoy the benefits Czarenel Modelesque of your success or be willing to try again.

Don’t give up.

A Thankful Mom Thank you all for sharing your recipe for success…

To the ‘ilustradas’ and ‘ilustrados’ of Illustrado More power to Filipinos…

Magazine - grazie mille a tutti!

Let’s help one another…

Everyone knows for a fact that I am an incurable Stage Mom, and that applies not only to my biological children, but also to all my extended non-biological children.

Michelle is indeed a singer, a dancer, a Toastmaster, with more A’s in one semester that I could possibly achieve in my entire student life.... and now a model!

If she becomes what I aspired to be, but couldn’t, I would indeed be the happiest Mom; if she becomes a rocking and rolling lawyer as she is indeed blessed with a memory like an elephant and she’s an indefatigable chatterbox that can make any one ‘confess’ to any crime just to hush her up.

And with that ... we all thank you!!

Tinette Samala Pudda

A Cold Christmas – Not! Hi Illustrado! Nice to read your article “Pasko na Sinta Ko (Wala Ka Pa).” I’ll have you know that “I’m single with a smile.” People, especially those who are “old school,” always assume that being single is not a good thing. When in fact, we single ladies enjoy freedom and privileges which our married counterparts cannot have anymore. I’m able to do my shopping and spend my time as I please without feeling guilty. I have also started last year on spending short holidays abroad with my girlfriends – it was fun!

I wouldn’t trade this part of my life for anything else right now. True, eventually, I would also like to have my own family. But while I’m not yet there, I will enjoy being “single with a smile” to the max.

Rina Ambon

On Illustrado’s Call for Sendong Aid Thanks for initiating this humbling act of compassion! I’m from Cagayan de Oro City and my family and relatives were victims too! This would really help the people of Cagayan de Oro and I salute you, and with all of my heart so grateful for this! Thanks Illustrado!

Jugger Onate Hello, Jugger Onate! It’s very difficult not to be affected by what happened back home ... Tao lang tayong lahat. We help in whatever way we can. Thank you for your kind words.

Editor

Publisher & Editor-in Chief Lalaine Chu-Benitez Associate Editor Ana Santos CONTRIBUTING WRITERS UAE, Philippines, USA Aby Yap Anna Lorraine Balita JR Bustamante Bernadette Reyes Jude Cartalaba Bo Sanchez Karen Galarpe Carlito Viriña KC Abalos David Poarch Krip Yuson Excel Dyquiangco Nikka Sathou Flordeliz Samonte Nina Terol- Zialcita Francisco Colayco Rache Hernandez Isabelo Samonte Rome Jorge Ivan Henares Toni Loyola Jack Catarata Sonny Guzman Jesse Edep Vic Lactaoen ART DIRECTORS Tom Bolivar Paula Lorenzo Ron Perez CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS UAE Eros Goze Mariyah Gaspacho Christina Linaza Illuminado Ong Donald Rosales CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS PHILIPPINES Enzo Mondejar Dr. Marlon Pecjo Alan Desiderio CONTRIBUTING STYLISTS & FASHION TEAM UAE Jessie Tabla Ginno Alducente Jojo Padua Frankie Melendez PUBLISHER - UAE Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2nd Floor, Building 2, P.O. Box 72280 Office 20C Dubai Media City, UAE Tel: +9714 365 4543, 365 4547 Fax:+9714 360 4771 E-mail: admin@illustrado.net, info@illustrado.net Web: www.illustrado.net, www.illustradolife.com PRINTERS PRINTWELL PRINTING LLC P.O. Box 18828 Dubai, UAE Copyright Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2006-2011. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC.

CONTENTS

42 JAN 2012 Models Kate Bautista and Alvin Aguilar are featured in this issue’s radical take on an art and fashion collaboration shot by photographer Enzo Mondejar

68

FEATURES

Virtual Philippines 8 Transformation in the New Year 14 You are What You Dream 18 Nanny ng Tahanan: More than Just the Help 20

REGULAR COLUMNS

Editor’s Note 1 Contributors 2 Letters 4 Illuminati: Must We Tweak? 12 KabuhayanMoney:ConvertingPassionintoBusiness24 Kabuhayan Entrepreneurship: Chicken Charlie 26 Pinoy PRO 28 It’s What I Do 30 Style & Image: New Year, New Look 32 Spirituality: Change Your Life in 30 Days 36 Relationships: Torn 38 IllustradoScrapbook:GlennDulay&RozenAntonio41 Five Things to Do 66 Bayanihan Corner 84 Community 86 Onli in da Pilipins: Cross My Heart, Hope to Die 88

ART & FASHION

Fashion: New Species 42 Leeroy New – Art & Fashion Convergence 62

PEOPLE & PLACES

Illustrado Profile: Samantha Sotto 64 Bakasyon Grande: Bohol – Choose your Own Adventure 68 Global Barrio: My Pinoy Life in Papua New Guinea 74 Trippin’: Dreaming Kinabalu 82

74

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10 FEATURE

Virtual Philippines

By Bernadette Reyes

For many of us, not a day passes by without signing on to Facebook, Twitter or our email account. The use of technology has become habitual if not indispensible whether for work or play.

These forms of technology, however, influence our lives at varying degrees depending on how consumed we are by its expediency.

Records from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) revealed some two billion text messages are transmitted everyday which is why to this day, the Philippines continues to reign as the SMS Capital of the World. Call volumes have likewise peaked with the unlimited talk time offered by telecommunication companies.

Many business transactions are facilitated thanks to technology. This explains why more and more people opt to work at the comforts of their virtual office.

Rica Dalmacion operates the novelty shop business Pretty Useful Stationery, Novelties, Gifts and Giveaways from home. She also enjoys the mobility of working from a coffee shop or shopping mall with the right gadget on hand. “The biggest components of the business are product development and maintaining the online shop.

All I need are my computer, iPad, Internet access, and my mobile phone. The work-from-anywhere set-up really works for me because it allows me to be as productive as I can possibly be and run my business as efficiently as I can,” said Dalmacion.

Illustrado Magazine

Not only does a virtual office save you time, it also minimizes expenses. With the rising cost of petrol coupled with high rental rates, telecommuting is becoming a trend. As a telecommuter, Dalmacion saves quite a sum.

“If I actually had to rent a small office, I would easily spend PH10,000 a month and gas would probably be about the same.”

Yet more than the monetary savings, a virtual office gives you the gift of time. The flexibility allows business owners to better manage their time. “No need to factor in travel time going to and from the office in the day’s schedule.

Armed with just an iPad, I can work while running errands that involve waiting time, or while on the way to a meeting on the other side of town.”

FEATURE 11

From virtual offices to virtual assistants Where there are virtual offices, there are also virtual assistants (VA) who work just like any regular assistant - only they usually command higher pay and enjoy more flexible working hours.

Most virtual assistants are single parents who need to take care of their children.

“Because there is such a demand for their skills and talents, they have the luxury to stipulate a very competitive salary rate.

Clients are still willing to pay for them because this rate is still considerably lower than what US-based employees would charge for the same work done,” says Virtual CEO Chris Ducker, founder of Philippine-based Virtual Staff Finder.

The more in-demand posts says Ducker include highly skilled and specialized roles like web developers, web designers and SEO specialists. The most common type of VA work these days however may involve general administrative support and content writing.

Clients are usually small to medium sized business owners based in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia who are

willing to pay the price in exchange of more time to themselves. “VAs do most of the work that keep their clients from doing the more important things in life and their business; whether it is meeting up with potential clients, brainstorming marketing strategies or simply having more time for themselves, family and friends,” says Ducker.

With technology readily available to almost anyone, there are no boundaries to what VAs can accomplish. According to Ducker, “Given the right training and support, they can definitely free up more time for their clients and help them run their business more efficiently.”

Changing the way we work and shop Technology has not only changed the ways Filipinos do business, it has also altered the way we live.

Take for instance our shopping habits. Filipinos are getting more comfortable with buying online. Testament is the success of websites such as Ensogo, Cash Cash Pinoy, and Sulit. Even social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter have become portals for online sales.

More recently, Shopinas.com was created to address the need of the Philippine market for a service that would enable businesses to easily set up an online store, with minimal capital.

12 FEATURE

Shopinas.com is tied up with courier service provider Air21 to link online buyers and sellers.

“We made a strategic decision to help these businesses that want to sell online by building a platform and a mall that would integrate an online storefront, payment system and logistics in one easy to use interface,” said Sheila Lina, President and CEO of Shopinas.com.

While shopping malls remain to be a favored hangout among Filipinos, online shopping is catching up on its game.

Says Lina, “Sites like Shopinas. com give Filipinos more options to make better decisions on what and when to buy. They now have access to brands and businesses that may only be available during bazaars or tiangges or have no immediate retail location near them.”

Indeed, you can browse and shop any time of day even when traditional retail locations are closed. You avoid waiting in line and dealing with crowds. You can carefully weigh your options by comparing prices online and you are not limited by the stocks available in stores.

For the tech savvy entrepreneur, the creation of an online store opens its market to the world allowing anyone with an Internet connection to buy from you.

Fast-forward to tomorrow, reputable online sell sites such as Amazon.com and ebay.com will continue to innovate and provide new services to improve the shopping experience.

In the Philippines, the future of online shopping looks just as promising. Said Lina, “More established brands will be setting up their online stores within the year and more young entrepreneurs will start their businesses online before they even establish themselves offline.”

Relating in a tech-savvy manner The advent of new technology has also changed the way people relate to one another. It is not uncommon to hear stories of love from a Facebook rendezvous or long distance relationships that last thanks to online chats, free online calls among other promos from mobile service providers.

Illustrado Magazine

Countless applications are downloadable for free whether for the phone or computer. Blackberry has BBM, iPhone users have Viber and Facetime while any other smart phone is capable of online chats.

According to Facebook, the site has some 800 million active users.

More than half of this number log-in on any given day. Just imagine how one website can connect as much people around the world regardless of time zone or nationality.

The only downside perhaps to technology, is its crippling effect on personal inter-relationships with society.

But while technology may have to a great extent lessened face-to-face interaction, it has allowed each person with some degree of access to technology to learn more, communicate more and ultimately live more.

14 ILLUMINATI

Must we

TWEAK at all?

Per my trusted movie critics among mature friends, the movie “Transformers: The Dark Side of the Moon” was something that gave one a headache if he or she were past pre-pubescence.

Cited as demerits were the intensity of sound effects, that is, of metal clashing against metal, and the visual ambiguity involving the robotic protagonists, which one couldn’t tell apart.

By Krip Yuson

Illustrado Magazine

ILLUMINATI 15 It wasn’t much the idea of having quick-change artists transforming themselves at will to become even more terrible as purveyors of violence, but the technical aspects of production that had many a father and mother wish they had escorted their kids to a movie of lower decibels.

Why, Clark Kent conducted his own office-garb strip to flash into an intimidating costume in the quiet and privacy of a phone booth. And Bruce Banner suffered his usual wardrobe malfunction to turn into the Incredible Hulk with mere gnashing of teeth plus snarling grunts.

Closer to home, when Narda called out to her brother, “Ding, ang bato!”, she became Darna, a flying whiz in sexy garb, if a ThirdWorld imitation of Wonder Woman.

Of more recent Western-fantasy fascination have been the shape shifters, which dreamers among our own teens and 20-somethings envy. They’re certainly a league above the remarkable chameleon, which can only assume the color of its backdrop for protective camouflage.

Now, my own beef with change for change’s sake has something to do with already being long in the tooth. Can’t teach an old dog new tricks, it is said. Or should that also be: Let sleeping dogs lie, and wake first, before you even nudge it into any modification of position.

I refer to change for change’s sake with much head-shaking, since all too often nowadays, we see increasing signs of this new, or is it novel, phenomenology.

I once served as a board member in a Homeowner’s Association, and found myself protesting against all notions and ideas for community development — especially in terms of physical infrastructure. I said we didn’t have to strive too hard to make a mark in the annals of our gated village just because we were a new board, one that would only serve a year, anyway.

I said the swimming pool we had was okay and need not be upgraded to Olympic length; hardly anyone used it, anyway, except for myself and some kids on Sundays. I argued that the covered basketball court we had was enough; the other, roofless one could stay as is, for the sake of jocks who appreciate a tan.

It wasn’t just frugality with villagers’ money that fueled my resolve to stand fast and preserve the status quo. It was the old abiding principle: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! And to prove my point, I pointed out the sidewalk edges and humps that needed restoration, and our need for a bigger budget for more personnel to sweep up the park on a more regular basis.

It really has to do with discernment, with careful eyes connecting with what really ought to be fixed, or improved, or enhanced — and not

just to find ways of throwing our budget to the wind by imposing CCTV cameras on every block when we already had a security force guarding two points of egress, plus a roving patrol.

I’m reminded of this tic that seems to bedevil staff techies, especially of the cyberspace species. Designs and formats are always modified just so everyone knows they exist — the designers and format supervisors — much like how security guards rationalize their presence by asking venue guests what their purpose of entry might be.

“Well, to get somewhere inside, of course! Why? To visit a friend inside your friendly village. You expect me to say I intend to bomb or burn down a house because its occupants haven’t paid what they owe me!?”

Back to IT geniuses, why is it that G-mail has to introduce format changes ever so often, the way Facebook also does, all too frequently.

Here you are enjoying familiarity with a system in place, and before you can fully settle into a comfort zone of applicability, you are told that you have to relearn the ropes because they’ve deemed it wise to change the look.

Now, I won’t end this piece by proving I’m a hipster and invoking that classic French adage: “Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose.

(The more things change, the more they remain the same.)” That ain’t hip at all, but already a much-abused cliché — like “thinking out of the box” and “even as we speak” and “at the end of the day.”

What we need are fresh, ingenious, truly transformative words of wisdom, maybe something like “Don’t do unto others what you can do for today.”

And I’m not basically against change or transformation per se; am only batting for more discernment before we rename an old street in favor of some politician, two-bit or whatever. Surely there are many other elements and features in any environment that need modification or tweaking.

But to tweak for tweak’s sake? Unless someone comes up with a really efficacious model for a better mousetrap or a cure for the common cold, I say better than a new trick is a good old treat.

16 FEATURE

Transformation in the

NEW YEAR

By Excel V. Dyquiangco

Are New Year Resolutions made to be broken? Excel Dyquiangco finds out how changing our way of thinking is actually the key element in changing our way of doing and in sticking to our resolve, any time of the year.

Illustrado Magazine

FEATURE 17

Every New Year comes with promises of transformation, mighty resolutions and pledges, vows and oaths. Sadly no sooner have we uttered our promises do we find ourselves unmotivated to fulfill them.

Would it surprise you to find out that starting and keeping a resolution and seeing it through can be done by simply changing your thought patterns?

People like Leila Nicasio can attest to it. “I was a blind follower of old thought patterns and beliefs that came from religion, culture, traditions, and superstitions that were mostly negative,” the retired bank officer said.

“I grew up with a sense of lack and limitation that pervaded many aspects of my life. I had the “poor me, why me?” attitude. I easily gave in to guilt, resentment, and criticism, and found it hard to forgive myself and others. Because of my way of thinking, I attracted negative people, things, and situations into my life.”

Her life changed dramatically when she became open to transformation principles. “Generally I became more positive because I recognized that God is within me and I have the power to change my thoughts and feelings from negative to positive and make good things happen to me.”

Recording artist and album producer John Alejandro had a similar experience. “I’ve had less stress and I’m beginning to appreciate life and understand people more. Life is indeed beautiful and peaceful.”

Self-Discovery and Peace The 360 degree turn Leila and John experienced in their lives started with what are known as transformational principles.

“We aim to change your life for the better no matter how good it already is,” said George Sison, founder of Temple of Prayer, Peace and Prosperity (TOPP), a transformational organization based in Makati City.

Sison’s transformation principle is hinged on embracing a belief that a higher power pervades all existence, and that individuals can create their own reality through affirmations, meditation and prayer. This supports a thrust to expand everyone’s awareness that there is only one God. “Prayer is how we usually establish a connection with God,” he

says. “Although God is everywhere, most importantly we believe that God is within each one of us. It is our connection with God that brings about peace and as a natural consequence, our prosperity.”

Sison also shares, “You can attract unexpected blessings and opportunities through the discovery of your calling and overcoming crises and storms in life.” He adds that by mastering these principles, you can also manifest a world of abundance, love and happiness.

Tato Malay founder of Kamalayan Library in Baguio City - a place where people can learn about how to transform into a better person and create a whole new level of consciousness, agrees and shares similar principles as Sison. Malay, who is a veteran radio/TV broadcaster and recording executive for more than 30 years, and also the author of 7 Universal Principles on How to Become an Entertainment Celebrity and Transformative Communication, says, “I have been transformed into a better person without my realizing it. When low moments came into my life, I motivated and talked myself out of those situations and came out a winner. I created a new level of consciousness in me. I discovered new principles and ways of thinking that were very powerful. Had I learned these principles when I was still a student, I could have radically changed the course of my life much earlier.”

“I discovered that I could train my right brain which dealt with creativity, emotions and the unknown, eventually learning to use also my neglected left brain, which dealt with logic, mathematics and facts, exactly what I needed when I was in school,” Malay added.

18 FEATURE

Transforming Your Mind

empowered to change their belief system to embrace a new reality.

So how do you exactly put all of these principles into action? TOPP employs various techniques. One is through substitution and redirection. “Our minds create our individual destinies through our thoughts and feelings,” said Sison. “Replacing negative thoughts with the things you desire is ideal so that our feelings also shift to that which is positive.”

Another is through relaxing and being still. “The moment there is tension, the mind stops working creatively,” he said. “On the physical plane, the harder you push, the greater the chances of moving an object. In the mental plane, the greater the effort, the less you are able to achieve.”

“It is about time to free ourselves from erroneous thinking and false ideas, and transform our destructive beliefs into a true philosophy of life and happiness.” Malay said saying that this principle is the basis for ushering opportunities and potentials towards a new consciousness.

He also stressed that there is a difference between resolutions and transformations. “Resolution is an intention to change while transformation is the actual change. Both are important. We have seen how New Year Resolutions fail,” said Malay. “It takes really a tough decision to muster enough courage to willfully undergo a process of change. We have to get out of our comfort zone.”

Another is through acceptance and the subconscious mind. “Once your subconscious mind accepts an idea, it uses every bit of knowledge it has collected - including everything you have consciously forgotten - and brings it to fruition, whether positive or negative. Your mind manifests on the physical level all that you have given consent to, and accepted to be true for you.” he explained.

Other beliefs include practicing the presence of God or realizing that goodness is a discipline that needs to be practiced consistently whenever you are fearful, worried or anxious.

“Forgive and release as well,” said Sison. “Your grievances and resentments keep you stuck to your problems, even if they don’t seem to be connected. Forgiving and releasing them all sets you free to receive new blessings.”

Another principle Sison shared: Your thoughts are also equivalent to male energy, while your feelings are equivalent to female energy.

When they are one, they give birth to the idea that causes them to get together, positive or negative.

The more you think about an idea, good or bad, the more it increases and multiplies in your life. So anticipate and expect the good, move towards the direction of your desires by acting on what is needed to achieve it. When that happens, thank God for all the blessings you have already received, as well as for what you desire to receive still.

“An act of kindness is an act of gratitude; any gesture of thanksgiving is an act of grace,” Sison emphasized.

To complete the cycle of giving and gratitude, Sison suggested giving, 10% of the income voluntarily to an organization/institution that is the source of the spiritual inspiration.

Transformation Communication Malay, on the other hand, has identified transformation communication as the primary essence of his teaching. This is based on a communication process where people are challenged, inspired and

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Three steps on the road to resolve and transform according to George Sison.

Affirmation: Keep on saying positive things about yourself over and over again.

“If you can’t say it, write it down at least ten times – and then burn the paper,” Sison said..

Visualization. Visualize every positive change you want in your life.

If you want to slim down, visualize your waist losing twenty pounds!

Meditation: See how you are going to do it and focus on it.

For more information about transforming your mind, you can log on to their Facebook accounts: Temple of Prayer, Peace and Prosperity at topppofficial@ groups.facebook.com; or you can just add Kamalayan

20 FEATURE

YOU ARE WHAT YOU DREAM.

Where is the line that separates fate and fatalism? When does visioning and dreaming actually becoming doing? When do you start living the life you want, instead of just letting life happen to you? Ana Santos envisions a future cut and pasted on a dream board.

Self-fulfilling prophecy. Chicken before the egg.

making a dream board will show what kind of house, what’s in it and what it looks like.”

Tear. Cut. Paste.

Put everything together and…you see the future? Your life will flash right before your very eyes?

To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect from dream boarding.

Oh sure, I’ve hard about it. Just about everyone from Oprah to the everyday planner has something about a dream board, but I had never really done one.

I wasn’t much of a dreamer. I thought of myself as more of a doer. Let me again use my corporate background as an excuse. All my years in the corporate world trained me to be a do-er. It was ingrained in me to think of goals, then identify strategies and ways by which to reach those goals. It was think, write, do.

And in my personal life, I started employing that same three-step process. Listing down the goals that I wanted for myself, stated mostly in outline form with strategies listed as sub-topics, neatly written down in my planner so I would have a constant every day reminder.

At the end of 2011, I looked back on my to-do’s and was surprised that I had crossed out a good number of them—not withstanding being fluent in French and pole dancing (does one trial class count?).

But I thought I should forgive myself for those lapses.

How was I supposed to plan an entire year of my life on a dream board? How do you make everything fit?

The power of envisioning “It’s more powerful than writing it down,” insisted my friend Nina about dream boarding. “You can write down you want a house, but

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Nina has been making dream boards since she was in college. Her mother attested to how walls and walls of her room would be filled with various dream boards.

“Okay,” I said, getting my laptop out, ready to access my dreams with one Google search.

“Nope,” said Nina firmly. “No can do. That would be premeditated.

You need to look through magazines and find the words and the visuals that will speak to you and the things that somehow catch your attention. You need to let your subconscious out.”

Oh wow. That was a little bit daunting for me. What if I didn’t find what I wanted in the magazine? Did that mean I wasn’t meant to have it?

But pushing those thoughts aside, my other friend, Nikka and my 10-year old daughter started looking through magazines and tearing and cutting.

Nina stopped me whenever I caught myself stopping to read things before tearing. “Be spontaneous! That’s what dreaming is about” Spontaneity. Seemed a long time since I had a bit of that, but it was when I let go that the words came. And in much more eloquent a form and more arresting a structure than I could have made them: Dividends are a girl’s best friend Recession Proof Famous Rouges And I did see my dreams and what I hoped for my future. And I saw something else, too. An overwhelming sense of gratitude.

FEATURE 21

It somehow appeared right before me while I was cutting, tearing and pasting.

This way of dreaming didn’t leave me a sense of being incomplete and longing for the things which I still do not have. It made me step back and appreciate what I had been gifted with, and yes - this is a word I use sparingly — blessed with.

I’m not going to stop listing my to-do’s, day by day, month and month and year on year. Old habits die hard and it’s hard to teach an old (female) dog like me new tricks.

But I’m going to go right on dreaming. There might be a lot of magazines in salons and coffee shops with missing pages in my wake, but I’m going to go right on tearing, cutting and pasting my dreams on a board.

I know now that my dreams are nothing without my gratitude.

Just as I have always known my wishes and goals are nothing without my words and actions.

YOU ARE WHAT YOU SAY.

me, they will never be mga jeepney driver lang.

When I was 17 and commuting to and from UP Diliman, I met a number of jeepney drivers who would pass time and Manila’s mind (and butt) numbing traffic by striking a conversation.

Over the years, I have made up my own list of words to strike out of my vocabulary. Whenever I catch myself saying these things, I stop and change it to its opposite phrase.

They would ask me where I went to school and when I told them UP, they would immediately conclude that I was as smart as Ferdinand Marcos, Loren Legarda, Ninoy Aquino and all the other illustrious graduates of the State University.

From Why to Why Not? No to the martyr syndrome and no to trying to get off easy.

Such comparisons made me cringe.

My grades not exactly something to catch the dean’s attention, much less make it to his list, I would explain, almost apologetically, “Hindi naman po. Sinuwerte lang po.”

One lightly admonished me asking me why I insisted on putting myself down. He told me that there was a difference between being boastful and being honest. And that I should simply say thank you and be grateful for the opportunity to study in a good school.

That taught me never to use that word “lang” when pertaining to myself. It is a lifelong lesson I carry with me till today.

I no longer have to commute, but I always give way to the jeepney drivers and wave to them when we pass each other on the road. To

From Lang to Hindi Lang No to demeaning myself, downplaying my achievements.

From Pwede na to Pwede pa No to mediocrity. Strive to do more and be better.

From Ganyan talaga to Bakit ganyan? Bakit hindi ganito?

No to fatalism. Life is what we make it. It is a product of the choices we freely make.

From Hindi Ko Kaya to Kakayanin Ko Life’s little bumps along the road can make you or break you. The choice to do either is yours.

From Sana Ako Din to Balang araw, ako din No to crab mentality. Instead of envying someone for what they have, make your own dreams and fuel them with hard work.

22 FEATURE

ANG NANNY NG TAHANAN: More than Just the Help

The wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton was touted as the most watched event of 2011 with about 1 billion people watching on their TV sets, laptops, and tablets. One Filipina did not have to jostle for a view. Aracelli Piccio, Prince William and Prince Henry’s nanny, was personally invited by the Royal Couple. Rache Hernandez takes a look at the Filipina nannies around the world who are raising other people’s children as their own and being loved and appreciated as second moms.

Royal nanny Lillie Piccio

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FEATURE 23

Nourah also lovingly recalls the precious moments she shared with Hilde. “I remember how she put me to sleep as a child by humming a song. When I got older, we would read bedtime stories, with Nannay using different voices for each character,” Nourah related.

Rise of the Filipina Nannies Prince William and Kate Middleton’s exchange of vows was witnessed by royalty, heads of states and pop culture icons like David and Victoria Beckham and Elton John. Amidst these glamorous people sat Filipina Aracelli “Lillie” Piccio, who was once nanny to Princes William and Harry, and who, with the love she gave her wards, secured a place in William’s heart long before she secured an invitation to his wedding.

The kind of love that nannies give, very much akin to that from mothers, is something the children they raise remember and cherish — royalty and commoner alike.

Nourah Al Ammary, a 27-year old Art Director from Saudi Arabia, was raised by a Filipina nanny, Hilde Capanang, whom she affectionately called “Nannay.” The fact that Nourah called Hilde by a pet name similar to ‘mother’ in Filipino is a symbol of the kind of relationship they shared. “I call her Nannay because she was like a mother to me,” Nourah shared.

“I cannot deny the bond we shared,” Nourah said. “I was lucky because she didn’t just take care of me. She raised me the way she would her own child and never held back emotionally. She always reminded me how loved I was,” she continued.

Hilde is one of the thousands of nannies who live and work overseas. In 2010, the Philippines deployed a total of 96,583 household service workers, including nannies, to different countries in the world. An estimated 13,184 of these workers were deployed to the UAE, as figures from the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) show.

One of these nannies in the UAE is Melody Gambon, 27, from Ilocos Sur who now works as an Executive Assistant in a company based in Jumeirah Lakes Towers. “I worked as a nanny for an Arab family for two years,” stated Melody, who took care of the family’s baby boy.

Like Hilde and Nourah, Melody also shared a deep bond with her ward, as she took care of him from infancy until he was two years old.

“He was a very adorable boy. He used to hug and kiss me when I told him that I was hurting or in pain. It wasn’t hard for me to fall in love with him,” she reminisced.

Her emotional attachment evident, Melody shared, “I watched him grow from an infant to a little boy. I loved him like my own son,” she explained. Melody also believes that, though it could have been very easy for her to hate her job because of the hard work involved, she had one philosophy that helped her get through: “If you can’t love your job, at least love your ward.”

Passing on values True to their roles as co-parents, nannies also carry the responsibility of instilling good values in their wards, a task that can be daunting, but something that, for Nourah, seemed easy for Hilde. “Hilde always had the best work ethic. She worked from the heart and is very trustworthy. I learned my work ethic from her,” Nourah said.

Aside from these, Nourah also stated that she learned “appreciation, patience, trust, honesty, ambition and devotion, as well as keeping

24 FEATURE things tidy” from Hilde. “She used to go around my room with a large garbage bag, picking up my toys and telling me that she was going to throw them all away. I am a neat freak today because of that and learned to appreciate my things and take care of them,” Nourah revealed.

A study by Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) notes that the ages of 0 to 3 years are important for brain development. These ages form the foundation stage, meaning much of the lessons learned are carried into adulthood, influencing wellbeing, physical and mental health.

Nourah also considered Hilde “a role model because she is smart, strong, independent, caring and outspoken.” Nourah credits her Nannay for the person that she is today. “She always pushed and supported me,” she revealed.

“You are loved”

Everybody is equal A unique facet of Nourah and Hilde’s relationship was how Hilde taught Nourah an important lesson. Hilde is a devout Catholic, while Nourah’s entire family is Muslim.

Nourah Al Ammary and her “Hilde insisted that not “Nanay” Hilde only should I understand Islam but I should practice it, too,” Nourah recalls. She tells a story about getting into an argument with a housekeeper where she ended up calling the housekeeper an infidel. Hilde heard her and didn’t speak to Nourah for days, until Nourah apologized. “Hilde explained that everybody is equal, and that only God has the right to judge,” Nourah stated. “That was what I love most about her – she never let go of her values and culture and yet taught me to value my own culture, family and religion,” she added.

Whether co-parents or secondary parents, it is undeniable that nannies play a significant role particularly in the lives of their wards, especially when they start taking care of them at a young age. This is largely because of the children’s impressionable ages.

Most of the time, the hand that rocks the cradle is a Filipina In Dubai, a recent study released by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) revealed that 94% of the Emirati families surveyed hired nannies or housemaids to help in the rearing of their children, while 90% of the expat families surveyed send their children to nurseries. A total of 5% employ nannies.

According to Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA) figures, the Philippines deployed 13,184 household service workers, including nannies, to the UAE in 2010, compared to 10,558 in 2009. The UAE is the third largest employer of Filipina nannies, next to Hong Kong and Kuwait.

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Since the better part of the day is spent taking care of the children, nannies soon learn a lot about their wards. Joyce Echavia, who works for a family with four children in Al Ain, can perfectly tell the 3-year old twin girls apart. “One is fair, sweet and treats me like a big sister, while the other is dark, moody at times, sickly, but jolly and nice,” Joyce revealed.

It’s easy for nannies like Joyce to become completely attached to the children they care for. “It didn’t take long until I became close to all of them,” Joyce recalled.

Although often grouped with other household workers, nannies often carry responsibilities that are heavier and more significant. While we parents pursue careers and work to make life better for our families, nannies man the fort, ensuring that the children are safe, healthy and happy. They love our children, they keep our homes in shape. Nannies are more than just the help. They are our allies and sometimes, our co-parents.

26 KABUHAYAN MONEY

Converting your

PASSION into a Business

By Francisco J Colayco

You might recall my advice about choosing a business that is best suited for you. One main factor is the need for “passion” for the kind of business you choose. As time passes, I begin to see more and more how the word “passion” can be misinterpreted or misunderstood. Let’s look at this further by understanding some ways you can determine your passion. can ask yourself the following questions. You will surely have a Remember that you are You long list and you will not know everything in one sitting. It will take even weeks and months. Keep a diary. Take notes and review looking for a passion that days, what you have written each time you add an entry. Maybe, you will can also be your business. cross out some items as you come to know yourself more each time.

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KABUHAHAN MONEY 27

What is it that you really love to do and are you any good at it?

Let’s take the example of cooking. Let’s say you love to cook and are happy doing it. People say the food you cook really looks and tastes good. Let’s assume that cooking is your passion.

If you succeed in doing it, will you be proud of yourself?

In the case of cooking, each time you are able to make a special dish you are particularly proud of yourself. You practice so often so as not to make any mistakes. Your self-pride increases as you continue your love for cooking. Here, we can assume that cooking is your passion.

How about if you do something which is the complete opposite? Will your chosen activity destroy your self-pride and cause you extreme embarrassment?

Still in the case of cooking, when you prepare a dish that is really bad, do you say it is because you are not practicing enough? Or does it really cause you extreme embarrassment because your level of expertise clearly is far too low from where it should be?

If your standard for excellence is low and you thus allow yourself to accept major lapses in your skill, then perhaps, cooking is not your passion.

What is it that motivates you to do something over and over again and not be tired of doing it?

In the case of cooking, will you be tired of doing the same dish over and over again? If you will become tired of repetitiously doing what you love, perhaps, it is not a passion but just a hobby. A hobby is an activity you like doing in leisure; only when it suits you.

Let us continue with the questions you can ask yourself to determine what your real passion is, as a basis for putting up a business. Now, time to think about the other things that relate to what you think your “passion” is -

1. Look at the things that you actually hate to do - your “anti-passion” For example, you don’t really like to go to the market because you don’t like the smell of raw meat and the chaos. Or you don’t have much patience to wait and you want results quickly. In such case, can you really make cooking your business? Surely, finding the best ingredients at the right price is crucial in any cooking business.

Preparing these ingredients before actual cooking is even more important and more often, requires a lot of time. Patience is a must in becoming a culinary expert. You have to accept that some dishes are best cooked on a very low fire and very very slowly.

2. Is what you call your passion actually just your hobby?

In the cooking example, to make it a business, you need to continuously do the same things over and over again. Passion is an intense desire and enthusiasm for something. It is almost like you will “die” if you don’t do it.

On the other hand, a hobby is just something you love to do when you want to do it. I know of people who love to cook and who feel empty if they are not able to cook a dish, even for the day. They practically want to live in their kitchen. They have every right to label cooking as their passion.

3. How much time and effort did you invest on your passion?

As an aspiring chef, do you analyze cook books and practice what you learned? Did you go out of your way to find a mentor to teach you?

Are you constantly talking to people about it to learn more? You feel that as long as you are trying, even if you fail at times, you still feel a sense of pride because you did it and learned from it.

When you find the right niche in a business, you could establish a real name for yourself. Sometimes, finding the right business is a combination of several “passions.” You have to be more specific in defining exactly what you are good in.

A passion for excellence and creativity may seem to be mutually exclusive. Excellence demands precision and discipline while creativity thrives on throwing out rules and thinking out of the box.

And yet the most successful chefs are the best examples of precise cooking techniques applied in creating new recipes with previously unheard of combinations of meat, fruit, herbs and vegetables.

The challenge then is really for you to discover your passions and find a way to combine them in developing a product or service.

28 KABUHAYAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Chicken

CHARLIE

By Bernadette Reyes

In a little over a year, twenty-seven-year-old Ifore Yu did something many young entrepreneurs could only dream of – he opened four branches of Chicken Charlie and four more stores are set to open before year end.

The concept of twice-fried chicken came from the US and Korea but Chicken Charlie is proudly 100% Pinoy. Made from only local ingredients, dishes are choice cuts of wings and drumstick from local chicken breeds.

The chicken follows a special two-step frying technique before serving. Chicken Charlie owner Ifore Yu says the cooking technique also uses less oil which makes their chicken a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken. “It’s very crispy, very country fried chicken, only it is less oily,” said Yu. The dish is served hot and crispy not with gravy but with its special soy garlic or hot sweet sauce not found elsewhere.

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The recipe was such a big hit in the neighborhood that when Chicken Charlie opened to business in April 2010 customers queued for hours to bring home a box of their twice-cooked chicken. Regular customers include families, barkadas, couples and students. “Filipinos love chicken and our product quality is very good,” said Yu. After Chicken Charlie was featured in a national broadsheet, the customer base expanded further. Today, Chicken Charlie has branches in San Juan, Banaue, Adriatico and Paranaque.

Soon Chicken Charlie will open its stores in Davao and Cagayan de Oro.

KABUHAHAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP 29

An initial capital of approximately PHP800,000 was earmarked for the business. “I used up all of my saving to open the business,” said Yu. “The money wasn’t given to me by my parents. It was money I saved from my part-time work during college so I really wanted the business to succeed,” he added.

The first store was a cramped 10-seater store in Retiro, Manila with only one cashier, one kitchen assistant and Yu to do all the work. Yu was in charge of purchasing and monitoring of stock, waited tables and taught staff orientation. He also assumed the role of master chef in the kitchen. “I cooked all the chicken that came from the kitchen,” he said.

Today, some of the responsibilities have been delegated to managers and staff but Yu is still hands-on. “I have already adjusted but as the business grows, problems also grow. The responsibilities and challenges become bigger too,” he said.

A bigger franchisor with a similar concept in the US has expanded in the Philippines. With competition just around the corner, Yu is stepping up his game. At first he felt threatened but he is confident the quality product of Chicken Charlie will keep the business on solid grounds.

Chicken Charlie Wings and Drumsticks are the most popular items on the menu selling at PHP99 for four pieces of chicken wings and PHP379 for eight pieces of drumstick but Charlie’s bowl is tops at only PHP59 per serving.

This year Chicken Charlie is also expanding its menu to include salad, pastas and sandwiches. “We will also be launching our signature drink to strengthen the brand,” he said.

Yu said that he did not learn in school a lot of the things about managing the business. “My everyday experience in running the business is my handbook. I also ask ideas from friends and people who run their own business.”

To share their success, Chicken Charlie has opened its doors to franchisees. Most of the inquiries came from interested young entrepreneurs but Yu exercises caution when screening applicants.

“Many young people are interested to open their own business but they should have a vision and they should put in a lot of hardwork and discipline. I didn’t have any background in the restaurant industry but I have a vision – I know how I want the store to look like, which market to target,” he said.

Friends and family often tease Yu as the next big thing after Mang Inasal but he would like to take things in stride. “Many have tried to compete with Jollibee and Mc Donalds but nothing came close to them. Mang inasal is one in a million. I do not dream to be one but I want to expand,” said Yu. Yu hopes to see the day when he can also cater to the Philippine market in the Middle East and Guam.

For now, Yu takes delight in the fact that Chicken Charlie is a strong Pinoy brand. “I’m proud to say Chicken Charlie is a proudly Pinoy brand because not only do we serve food for the Filipino palate, we also create more jobs for Filipinos,” he said.

Chickenjoy and Mc Chicken will always have their steady followings but the evolving Filipino palate is now ready to taste more adventurous flavors and exciting twist like Chicken Charlile.

30 PINOY PRO Celebrating the Professional Pinoy

Perla Dulay Alver Warehouse Manager DANZAS AEI Dubai, UAE At one point in her life, Perla Dulay Alver’s job involved working around machines much bigger than her and being surrounded by men.

“I was a full time Marine Machinery Mechanic Apprentice at the Subic Naval Base. I was trying to learn how to do a man’s work around several US warships, and at times inside the submarines.”

Simultaneously, she was working on her Accounting degree, which was a good thing because as she explains it, “When the US bases were closed down, apprentices were the first to be laid off.”

Her Accounting degree served her better when she first came to Dubai in 1992, as a 21 year old newlywed where she first worked as Receptionist then eventually grew to Customer Service Manager in Smith & Nephew FZE, a global leader in medical devices for healthcare.

After 15 years in the company, Alver moved into the Life Science Division of Danzas AEI in 2007 as a Warehouse Manager.

“I manage day to day operations within the distribution centre which handles the warehousing needs of our healthcare customers. What we do in distribution is a very important part of the chain.

We ensure that healthcare and medical devices/ products reach the users in a timely manner and in good condition. There is no margin for error when it comes to serving an industry on which people’s lives depend on.”

Aldo Aguilar Production & Logistics Manager Red Middle East Dubai, UAE Architecture graduate Aldo Aguilar wasn’t expecting to fall in love with Dubai.

In fact, he was expecting quite the opposite.

“I was working as a freelance artist in the Philippines when my mother asked me to join her in Dubai. I hesitated because I did not want to live in an even hotter place, but then I decided to give in to my mom. I came to Dubai in the summer of 1993 and

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I immediately fell in love with the place. It was such a beautiful place without much pollution and traffic. And the desert is fun, too!” shared Aguilar.

Aguilar has been living and working in Dubai since and has spent most of his years as a Production Manager at Leo Burnett, handling the production of point of sale materials. Recently, he has transferred to Red Middle East to take on the post of Production & Logistics Manager.

“I think I have already achieved my goal in life but I am still working on spending my quality time with my family.” Thinking of his family, Aguilar reminisces about how another summer proved to be a new beginning for him. Aguilar recalled, “It was also summer here in Dubai when I met a beautiful girl in a church gathering. That girl gave me the honor of being her husband. We are blessed with two amazing children, Ego, 14 and Angel, 4.”

Despite having both children born and raised in Dubai, Aguilar and his wife make sure that they the value of being a Filipino. “They have to embrace it because here in Dubai we are all surrounded by all kind of beliefs and religions. My parents’ legacy to me was my strong identity as a Filipino and I want to pass that on to my children.”

Maria Cristina Rosales-Zuniga Business Development Manager – Middle East & Africa Terumo Corporation Dubai, UAE

dedication and commitment. There is no substitute for patience and hard work,” she stressed.

“I never gave up despite of uncertainties, job pressures, challenges and trials but instead, I remained loyal, honest, trustworthy and most all, firm in my commitment to even work harder and do the best I can. I did all these for the love my work, inspired by family and friends, and most of all, faith in God,” Rosales – Zuniga said.

The mother of four children between the ages of 11 and one, says she sets aside her leisure time for her kids and husband who works as an Emergency Medical Technician for the Abu Dhabi Ambulance Police, Ministry of Interior. Specifically, she loves to cook and bake for them.

“Those are some of the simple pleasures of life, right? To go for a stroll at the park, watch TV with your family and dine in our favorite restaurants on special occasions and when I don’t cook for them,” laughed Rosales-Zuniga who ended by sharing that when she does watch TV, it’s mostly to get culinary tips and recipes.

Mo Purple C. Juachon Philippines Corridor-inCharge – Dubai UAE Exchange Center LLC UAE

Maria Cristina Rosales-Zuniga was working as a senior staff nurse in Neuroscience Unit of the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Manila before she moved to Dubai.

Mo Purple Juachon had worked in Business Process Outsourcing and events management before. When he moved to Dubai, he combined those two areas of expertise. “I was an e-Rep for People Support and before that, I was an events management staff for Couples for Christ before moving to Dubai,” said Juachon.

It was both a geographical and a career shift for Rosales-Zuniga who now works as a Business Development Manager for the Middle East and African Region for the Terumo Corporation Dubai Branch.

Now, working as the Philippine Coordinator in charge of Dubai for the UAE Exchange Center LLC, Juachon described his responsibilities to include all marketing activities in relation to the Philippine business of UAE Exchange.

Her days remain to be hectic, though for different reason. “I have to sort through hundreds of emails of all sorts: product inquiries, customer complaints, shipment-related matters, new product development,” Rosales-Zuniga enumerated.

“Then there are phone calls and internal/external meetings to attend to.”

“The thing that I really like most about my job is that it’s a mix of a lot of things. It’s never routine work except for a couple of reports. Being in the Marketing Department, the job calls for a bit of creativity, being on the move to see places, meet people and even attend events and concerts.”

Nonetheless, Rosales-Zuniga finds immense joy in her work. “My greatest achievement is having reached where I am now through good oldfashioned hard work, perseverance, self-reliance,

In keeping with what kept him busy before moving to Dubai, Juachon still regularly attends activities of the CFC, and every now and then finds the time to play his guitar and immerse himself in writing poetry and articles.

30 PINOY TALENT-ON THE-JOB

It’s What I Do

PINOY TALENT

ON-THE- JOB

Daze Tan

Assistant Fashion Designer to Head Designer W-Haute Couture, Dubai

My Job I have been working as an assistant fashion designer to our head designer Bandoix Flores at local fashion house W-Haute Couture since January 2010. I’m proud to say that in my job I started from the bottom and have gained invaluable knowledge and exposure in the local fashion industry for the last two years. I’m just lucky to have the all out support from my mentor, Bandoix Flores.

Even if it meant passing through a needle’s hole, it was all worth it.

As a mentor, hereally wanted me to learn what real “haute couture” means.

A typical working day for me We work in split shift schedule from 9am to 1pm and then 4pm to 9pm. My mornings are spent doing clerical jobs like computer work, calling client for fitting appointments and making requests for the needed materials for production to our purchaser. It’s my responsibility to manage our shop’s working schedule.

During my second shift, I take care of client fittings in coordination with our master cutter. I also design for certain clients. My daily work

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requires closely coordinating with my head designer and the workers to meet clients’ orders on time.

My message to Filipinos out there Never lose hope with the things that you really want to achieve in life. Always keep your feet on the ground and value people who will contribute to your learning. God is just there to grant what you are aiming for. Always look up because the moment you look at your sides it will hinder you from moving up.

PINOY TALENT-ON THE-JOB 33

Jes Sabado Crisolo Senior Visual Merchandiser Luxury Group Middle East, Dubai

My Job I conceive, execute and supervise window displays for brands Diesel, Fred Perry, Custo Barcelona and Bimba and Lola. I also supervise the in-store merchandise presentation and branding for these designer brands. My job also entails training the staff and the in-store visual merchandiser in the UAE Middle East region about the principles of merchandising, developing creative concepts as well as company brand procedures.

Awhile back, I got the chance to travel to several European countries

Ken Madronero Business Development Executive Vice Versa International, Dubai

My Job I am a Business Development Executive by day and a casual clothing designer by night - if I can put it that way.

My job is to encourage companies to be a part of our consumer program. I handle the accounts of companies such as GGI Retail, Asia in Wok, Dreamland Aquapark and others. My goal is to convince top executives in various businesses that our programs will ultimately benefit their company and promote customer engagement and loyalty. This kind of job could be intimidating. But if you focus on the job and create a rapport with clients, it could be rewarding. I have gotten several job offers from the people I’ve meet on the job. I just refer people I know instead so I can help my friends get a job and help the company fill their vacancies. It’s a win-win situation.

But what I am most proud of is my passion for casual clothing design which allows me to explore my artistic and entrepreneurial side. I design and sell my creations online through Ethan Ash Wear. www. facebook.com/ethanashwear. I have been in Dubai for six years and every time I had a “look” I wanted to wear, I just can’t seem to find it here for lack of choices. So that’s why I decided to create my own line.

to represent the UAE. My work was used as an example for the visual guidelines of window installations and in-store displays. Being recognized internationally was very rewarding.

Now that I have moved to a luxury brand - Gucci, I am very excited and inspired to share what I’ve learned from my 7 years of experience in fashion with others. At the same time, I am looking forward to learning more things and enjoying doing what I am passionate about.

My message to Filipinos out there

I hope my experience will show other Filipinos that it doesn’t matter where you come from - family and educational background - as long as you do your job with passion and sincerity, you’ll go along way and you’ll succeed in whatever you pursue.

Lastly, no matter what you achieve in life, you have to keep your feet on the ground. One always has to remember that whatever we achieve, it would not have been possible without the help and support of your family, friends and colleagues.

A typical working day for me My day job involves lots of meetings and doing product presentations with company decisionmakers. Basically the idea is to sell them the concept of our rewards program so they are able to establish stronger customer relations and loyalty.

Then as soon as I get home, I do research and brainstorm with my folks on cool design ideas.

Other times, I concentrate on growing my social media network by focusing on Twitter and Facebook. This way, I am able to reach a wider network to showcase my designs. On weekends, I meet-up with people who ordered from me online and try to meet as many people as I can, to show them my designs. It’s pretty hectic, I know, but I recognize that I have to throw my brand out there to as many people as I can.

My message to Filipinos out there The one message that I would like to share is: Be Proud. Filipinos have the talent to stand out and compete with the best that Dubai and the rest of the world has to offer. Regardless of skin color and accent, we should be proud of ourselves as Filipinos and at the same time we should be humble enough to acknowledge that all this is possible because of one almighty God.

34 STYLE AND IMAGE

New Year,

NEW LOOK

Professional Image Consultant Agnes Aquino-Briggs shares that appearance is not just about vanity. Improving your looks can actually improve your life. Besides, a new look is a great way to celebrate a new year.

Changing the way you look can ultimately boost your self-confidence, empower you, motivate and energize you. When you know you look great, your self-esteem and self-confidence will increase dramatically.

You will walk, talk and think differently.

Others will recognize and respond to you in a positive way. Confidence in yourself and your appearance will cause doors to magically open and attract new and exciting opportunities your way. Business and social relationships will blossom and your chances of career advancement will be significantly improved.

Change your look, change your life The key to a successful image make-over starts with looking at who you truly are, and not being afraid of change. With professional help, you could find balance between your own personal style, how you want to change your appearance, and what you need to achieve with your new look.

Most women I know have their own styles and ideas but it pays to have experts on hand to help them define their personal style to achieve the image that they want to project, and at the same time be comfortable with it. Once you have found your signature style, you will find it a challenge to stick to it and be consistent. But with motivation from the experts you will eventually make it a way of life.

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What does it take to change instantly with an impact?

Let us first define image. According to Diana Pemberton Sikes author of “Wardrobe Magic,” image is the way you care for and carry yourself, the clothes you wear, your personal style, your poise and presence. It is very much a part of who you are, as it reflects the way you think, feel, act and live.

Why does image matter? For the simple reason that first impressions last. I have read a hundred books on how short or long you can make an impression and the answers vary from 3 to 30 seconds. I would say, you only have one chance to make an impression and this is based solely on your appearance.

According to experts, clothing covers over 90% of the body in most business situations.

Clothing is one of the elements of visual image with the biggest impact to project or reflect messages about the wearer. Simply put, there is nothing you can choose to wear that does not make a statement. Most first impressions are mostly based on your clothing. To get it right, your clothing and fashion style should reflect the image that you are trying to project.

According to the Harvard Business Review, dressing professionally and conservatively can advance careers: “Women, in particular, believed that dressing the part was a vital factor in attaining success: 53% of them felt aspiring female execs needed to toe a very conservative line,

STYLE AND IMAGE 35

A well-groomed polished look does not only add to your self esteem, it even improves your career and earning potential

avoiding flashy make-up, plunging necklines, too-short or too-tight skirts, and long fingernails. Indeed, half the women surveyed and 37% of the men considered appearance and earning potential (EP) to be intrinsically linked; they understood that if you don’t look the part of a leader, you’re not likely to be given the role.”

The Art of Wearing Colors that are Right for You

Color is a wonderful tool for giving your look an instant boost.

Wearing colors that complement your coloring can make you look healthier and younger. Wearing unflattering colors can make you look older, ill, exhausted or dull.

Invest in colors of clothing and makeup that are in harmony with your skin color, eye color, and hair color. When you get it right, it transforms your look.

A personal stylist can show you the individual styles that will bring out the new and the best in you whether you want to look dramatic, sporty, elegant, chic, traditional or creative. Everything you wear will look wonderful when you know the scale, proportion and details on the clothing that is right for you and will build up your personal branding.

Make- Up Yale’s Daniel Hamermesh conducted a study, “Beauty in the Labor Market.” He found out that attractive men earn 9% more than unattractive men, and attractive women earn 4% more than unattractive women.

If you are a woman, learn to accentuate what you have with make-up.

Make up in appropriate colors, and in the right amount according to the occasion is like putting icing on a cake. Enhancing your face with makeup can raise your fashion status, as well as your self-esteem.

Furthermore, according to a recent study, women who wear make-up are perceived positively by their co-workers and this increases their worthiness.TheGlassHammer, a website designed for women executives reveals that “there is strong statistical evidence to show that women who wear make-up in business get better jobs and are promoted more quickly.”

Wearing makeup shows you care about yourself and make an effort to look good. It can appropriately build your confidence and highlight your features and hide your imperfections. Create a natural day time look, make evenings dramatic with darker shades and feel free to experiment and create your own distinctive style.

All the numbers and numerous studies show that your best investment is yourself and that investing in yourself truly pays off.

Agnes Aquino-Briggs is a personal stylist and founder of Global Image Institute.

36 ADVERTORIAL Commenting on this festival season, Vishal Mahajan, director of Dubai Outlet Mall said: “Dubai Outlet Mall provides a happy shopping experience for tourists to Dubai as well as residents. We invite everyone to take advantage of big bargains and savings and indulge in festive fun and entertainment lined up for them.”

Splash Unveils 2012 ‘A New Beginning’ At an evening of futuristic glamour, set against the backdrop of ‘A New Beginning’ the 2012 Splash Limited Edition Calendar was presented to a select gathering of media and VIPs from the region.

Drawing influences from Mayan predictions and imbibing B-movie sci-fi traits the second edition of the Splash Calendar was unveiled

by Micky and Renuka Jagtiani, Chairman and Vice-Chairman, Landmark Group along with Raza Beig, CEO, Splash and ICONIC at his residence, where DJ Paul Hamilton got people grooving into wee hours of the night.

Touted at being the World’s very first 13 image calendar, it explores the prophecy when the World will come to an end on December 21, 2012. The Splash Calendar ends on this date only to start again on December 22, 2012 of what we term as ‘A New Beginning’.

Renowned fashion photographer Tejal Patni returns as the brainchild behind this thought-provoking and unique concept for the Splash Calendar and explores not the end but what ‘end’ actually means.

An art connoisseurs’ piece bound to tickle the creative urge, this fascinating combination of art, vision and fashion has sets created in studios by a team of technicians specially flown in, and every prop used made from various recycled items, including the custom-made outfits worn by the model. “ A numbered 500 piece limited edition calendar; it will be gifted to the region’s movers and shakers which include media, opinion makers, partners and VIPs. Also with a vision to make the calendar a part of every consumer’s living space, the calendar will be available in a desktop version, across all Splash Stores in the region from January 1, 2012 at a minimum purchase of AED 100.

Dubai Outlet Mall Festive DSF Offers Dubai Outlet Mall, the region’s Ultimate ‘Value’ Shopping Destination, announced its festive promotion, entertainment and activities for the Dubai Shopping Festival 2012.

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From January 5 to February 5, 2012, shoppers who spend AED 250 at any retailer outlet at Dubai Outlet Mall could enter into a draw to win a Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited. Over and above this major promotion, bargain hunters will be in for a treat as individual retailers will also conduct individual promotions, in addition to the everyday discounts of between 30 - 90% markdown on their products.

As support sponsor of the festival, Dubai Outlet Mall will be alive with a well rounded selection of exciting entertainment and fun activities for the whole family - Kite Festival, Star Hunt 2012, stage shows and in-mall entertainment which includes several international folk dances, Magician and Jugglers shows, stage acts, Meet and Greet with Chuck E from Chuck E Cheese’s and Ronald McDonald Show and many more.

Baby Shop Set to Launch S/S 2012 Collection Babyshop, the region’s leading children’s retail concept and a onestop shop for kids’ products, is set to launch its chic Spring/Summer Collection 2012 (SS/12) on 9 February.

Babyshop’s signature brand ‘Juniors’ leads the trend pack, channeling themes for little girls with bright floral patterns in vibrant yellows, pretty pinks and fresh whites. The ensemble also rings in an exciting season for boys with hooded shirts, V-necks and sporty polo t-shirts dominating the line. Conveying a trendy and practical look, Babyshop’s collection features the essential nautical theme with traditional checks, prints and stripes in the classical hues of red, white and navy.

Lee Cooper and Maui and Sons are the other two brands that retail exclusive lines at Babyshop. Lee Cooper offers an edgy twist to its graphic tees, plaid and combination shirts, hoodies, as well as patterned shorts and denims in different washes. Maui and Sons’ collection includes board shorts, chequered shorts, dip-dye tops, skirts and summer dresses that are inspired by the sun and the sea.

The luxurious Barbie™ line-up has power pinks, iconic graphics, sparkles and shine. Other characters to look for are Hello Kitty™, Strawberry Shortcake™ and Disney favourites such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Winnie the Pooh and Disney Princess. Also available are the Amazing Spiderman, Batman: The Dark Knight Rises, Lion Kind in 3D and Marvel Avengers. Babyshop also aims to launch new characters such as Cars, Ben 10, Ultimate Alien, and Generator Rex.

38 SUCCESSFUL PINOY SPIRITUALITY

Change Your Life

in 30 Days

It’s January 2012! If you haven’t done it yet, write your New Year’s resolution now.

Many have given up making New Year’s resolutions because they fail to fulfill them. I have a formula for fulfilling a New Year resolution. Note, I said resolution — not resolutions. Yes, just one.

Easy.

Choose one habit that you’d like to develop for the next 30 days.

Dream big but start small. Think of doing this new behavior for 30 days only. That way, it seems more doable.

If you miss doing it in one day, here’s the rule: go back to Day 1 —

Illustrado Magazine

By BO SANCHEZ

and start all over again. You don’t want to do that, right? That will be enough reason to keep the habit going every day.

I repeat: you have to do it daily. Not three or four times a week.

This is crucial. If it’s an activity that can’t be done daily, then try to choose an “alternate” activity that you can do at the same time.

If you hit the gym every 5PM to 6PM on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays — why not read a book, or take a walk, or swim a few laps at that same time on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday? That way, it will still be a daily experience.

SPIRITUALITY SUCCESSFUL PINOY 39 If you do, you’ll get discouraged and some people don’t try again after that.

They get depressed and give up.

Here’s the key: To catch small fish, you need humility.

Never Stop Growing Life is always changing.

There’s not a point when life is static.

Last recommendation: don’t just say, “I’m going to walk daily.” It’ll be more powerful to say, “I’m going to walk at 6AM daily.” Set a specific time. Or if you’ve decided to make 20 sales calls a day, peg it at a particular hour of the day.

Making this small tweak will quadruple your chances of sticking to the habit and making a lifestyle-change in your life.

Overhaul Your Life There are four steps to overhaul your life: 1.) Purpose: Identify Your Why of Success 2.) Plan: Success Is Not an Act But a Habit 3.) Practice: Catch Small Fish Before Big Fish 4.) Produce: Never Stop Growing I will be talking about these four steps in the Feast, the Sunday prayer gathering that I lead at the Philippine International Convention Center. As my New Year gift to Illustrado readers, here are advance glimpses of the talks.

Success Is Not an Act But a Habit Haven’t you noticed? Some people are always broke. Some people are always late. Some people are always making money. Some people are always on time. Some people always create happiness wherever they go.

Some people always create trouble wherever they go. Some people always achieve their dreams. Some people never achieve their dreams.

Why? Habits. Life is really all about habits. Ask yourself what kind of habits do you have?

Catch Small Fish Before Big Fish Do you want to succeed in life? Then take the journey of success. This journey follows two phases. In phase one, you catch small fish. In phase two, you catch big fish. It’s really very simple.

You don’t try to catch big fish if you still haven’t perfected the skill of catching small fish. Some people try to move to phase two without perfecting phase one. That’s a recipe for disaster.

So here’s the deal that’s being presented to you every day of your life: If you stop growing, you start dying.

There’s no such thing as being stagnant in life. In my mind, stagnant means going backward. Because life is moving forward and you’re being left behind.

Here’s another illustration. If you’re not climbing up the mountain of self-growth, then you’re sliding down that mountain. You can’t stay put. Why? Because this mountain keeps on growing bigger with or without you.

Each day, you’re presented with a choice. Will you climb or will you slide?

I’ve got good news for you: God has given you the power to grow.

Use that power. Commit to never-ending growth.

Are You Successful?

Success is a constant balancing act.

There are days when I’m so stressed because I’ve put too much stuff on my plate. So I pull back. When I feel stressed, I close my eyes and inhale God’s Love. And in that inner silence, I remind myself, “God is with me. Why rush?” Instantly, I feel peace flooding my soul.

But there are days when I feel the total opposite: I’m too comfortable.

And I need to be nudged by life to stretch more in a particular area in my life.

For example, when I’m too comfortable in my family life, coasting along because my family is “Ok,” God whispers to my heart, “Be more deliberate in re-connecting with your wife and kids…” So I call and invite someone for a date.

It happens in my businesses or ministries, too. When everything is doing well, I tend to coast. And that’s dangerous.

Where are you today in this balancing act of success?

Know yourself. Know where you are.

And achieve balance.

40 SUCCESSFUL PINOY RELATIONSHIPS

TORN

married. I do not plan to be a homewrecker. But every time he talks to me and every time I see him, he makes me smile. He knows about my current status with my partner and he knows that I’m going through a difficult time. He always gives advises me to hold on to my relationship with

Dear Dr. Holmes and Mr Baer,

my current partner.

I have been living in with my partner for over four years now, along with our three year old daughter. Over time, my partner has become very cold and distant. He never holds my hands, or says “I love you” unless I ask him. His behavior has made me feel insecure about my looks. I developed an inferiority complex and since then have always thought of myself as not being good enough. I’ve tried talking to him about this several times, but he always gets mad and tells me I’m thinking of crazy stuff.

One day, I gathered the courage to confess to him about how I feel towards him, not because I’m asking for something in return, but simply because I could no longer contain it.

He was so kind, saying he appreciates how I admire him, but insisted that my feelings are just a result of my situation.

A lot of people in our office tell me I’m good looking and wonder why I settled for my partner. I always shrug off these comments off because of my low self-esteem.

Until I met this someone at work. He is very attractive and has been extra sweet to me. He always asks me how I’m doing and I feel that he also likes me. The problem is he’s

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He said there’s nothing to not like about me and he even said that if he is not married, it would be very easy for him to just give in as well. I have accepted this and have chosen to see him being a nice guy - he’s not opportunist — as the reason for his behavior.

I feel that he’s just holding back because of his marital status and because we both have kids of our own. I like him so, Doc. I’m so torn right now.

Julia

RELATIONSHIPS SUCCESSFUL PINOY 41 Dear Julia, Many thanks for your letter. I agree with Mr Baer’s analysis, although perhaps not with his Western-in-your-face way of relaying it to you.

There is just one more thing I’d like to say, and that is your inconsistency about what you say and what you admit you’ve done.

You said that you don’t plan to be a home-wrecker and yet you confessed your feelings to him. He was kind when he declined, but was also very clear and firm about there being no hope for anything between you.

Most men make passes at women who confide in them, mistaking this friendship as a come-on. Hells bells, most men make passes even if the woman doesn’t confide in - but merely smiles at - them.

Dear Julia, The tone of your story seems designed to encourage us to feel sorry for the dreadful predicament in which you find yourself in for no reason of your own. Here you are, unappreciated at home by a man who doesn’t deserve you, yet thwarted in love by the man of your dreams.

You, however, see yourself as the heroine of this tale, unwilling to break up another woman’s marriage merely for your own purposes, hence, cue for the abundant use of handkerchiefs and tissues by your heart-rent audience.

There is an alternative analysis of your situation which dries the eyes of any would-be sympathizer.

Here is a woman who is unappreciated by her partner. He is cold and distant, and when challenged, he is in denial. She says that this makes her feel inferior, lacking in self-esteem and unattractive. Faced with this home situation, what does she do to remedy matters? Absolutely nothing. Admittedly, she tried to talk to him about it but a mere chat is not going to achieve anything, and anyway she gave up at the first hint of resistance.

Meanwhile at work, she meets her Adonis, who unfortunately has already met and married his Aphrodite. He is kind and understanding, and offers her advice to improve her situation with her partner and to bolster her fragile ego. Our ‘heroine,’ who says she does not plan to be a home-breaker, is heartened by all this attention and declares her love for Adonis, only to be rejected because as she well knew, he has already plighted his troth to Aphrodite and been blessed by a number of beautiful, intelligent and caring children.

Our ‘heroine,’ facing a dire situation both at work and at home, decides to beat her breast and tries to resolve her inadequate relationship with her partner by bewailing her lot and fixating on an entirely imaginary and unattainable relationship with Adonis.

Julia, the help you should be looking for requires you to resolve the situation with your partner. Analyze your contribution to the unsatisfactory relationship, resolve it and then tell him he should shape up or ship out - and stop trying to create something out of nothing with Adonis.

All the best JAF Baer

This guy has done nothing of the sort. And while he was very kind in his refusal, he was also very firm that there was nothing to cling to or hope for.

And yet you still keep hoping, adding that “I feel that he’s just holding back because of his marital status and our both having kids of our own.”

Julia, Julia, Julia, you make it sound like his being married and having kids are not sufficient reasons for holding back. If they aren’t, what then would be? And what, to you, is the definition of a home-wrecker but someone who willfully puts herself between a man and his family?

You continue with words that would chill any wife’s heart: “I like him so, Doc. I’m just torn right now.” With all due respect, I don’t understand what you are torn about.

Being torn means you have a choice between one course of action or another. You have told him of your feelings so it isn’t about that.

He has told you it’s a no-go so, if you truly don’t want to be a homewrecker, you “dead ma” any future conversations or situations which may bring this up.

Short of respecting his feelings and saying nothing more, or splaying yourself naked on his desk, I don’t know what other course of action you can be torn about.

And I so hope the more pragmatic side of you forces you to make a decision regarding the best course of action to take: repairing your current/actual relationship with your partner or moving on… not to someone else, but primarily to yourself. Your self esteem will need to realize that you deserve a relationship where you aren’t always doing all the running — asking your current partner to say he loves you, confessing your feelings to someone who doesn’t return them. I have no doubt that, in time, you will find someone else who deserves you and whom you deserve.

All the best, MG Holmes

42 ILLUSTRADO SCRAPBOOK A platform for budding Filipino creative talent

Glenn Wesley Dulay

Glenn Wesley Dulay works as a Workshop Supervisor, as well as a Web and Graphic Designer. Like most other enthusiasts, he got into photography as a hobby, initially joining friends for fun shoots until he got really engrossed and joined GPN (Gulf Photographers Network) and then MESS (Middle East Shutter Squad). Glenn says that the experience and support he has gained from both groups were crucial in his becoming the photographer that he is today. This enthusiast prefers portrait and fashion photography, and also gets the opportunity to cover prestigious events in the country, such as shop openings and product launches with the likes of DeBeers and Chopard, to name a few.

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A platform for budding Filipino creative talent

Rozen Antonio

Caviteño Rozen Antonio is a graduate of BS Computer Science at De La Salle University Dasmarinas and currently works as a Sr. Marketing Executive in a cargo airline company in UAE. Rozen’s start in photography two years ago was better than the average hobbyist as one of his first images made it among the 30 finalists at Illustrado’s “The Filipina” photo competition in 2010. Thereafter, his engagement with the

ILLUSTRADO SCRAPBOOK 43

art deepened. He says he fell in love with fashion and beauty photography and that keeps him continuously practicing and learning from the more seasoned photographers in the local community. In 2011, two of his pictures made it to Illustrado’s Women of Substance photo competition – two in a group of 30 finalists chosen from hundred of entries, providing him even more motivation and inspiration to aim higher in his chosen field of creativity.

44 FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER - ENZO MONDEJAR STYLIST - ERIC POLIQUIT HAIR AND MAKE-UP ARTIST: EUNICE ENDAYA-FLORES MODELS: KATE BAUTISTA OF YEOH MODELS AND ALVIN AGUILAR

Aesthetic mutation A radical take on the evolving boundaries of fashion Style’s eccentric art impregnation

NEW SPECIES Illustrado Magazine

FASHION 45 Black silicone Caraface dress

by Leeroy New

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46 FASHION

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FASHION 47

Urchin armpiece by Leeroy New

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48 FASHION Chainmail headgear by Chris Diaz; Ed cuff from Automaton Accessories Collection by Gold Dot; Drei wedges

by Gold Dot

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FASHION 49 Ed cuff and Thysz neckpiece from Automaton Accessories

by Gold Dot; Carton dress by Jing Mondejar

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50 FASHION Urchin accessory by Leeroy New; silver lamé carrot pants by Christine- Caspe Lam

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FASHION 51

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52 FASHION

Dax Booties by Gold Dot; gauntlets by Chris Diaz

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FASHION 53

Vertebrae necklace by Os Accessories; metallic straps from Dax Booties

by Gold Dot; elf ears by Jing Mondejar

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54 FASHION Stallion helmet by Leeroy New

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FASHION 55

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56 FASHION Vertebrae Necklace by Os Accessories

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FASHION 57

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58 FASHION

Halo Tin Repousse Accessory by Leeroy New; Invertebrae Necklace by Os Accessories; gauntlet by Chris Diaz

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FASHION 59 On Kate: Urchin top by Leeroy New and gauntlets by Chris Diaz; On Alvin: Caraface mask

by Leeroy New

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60 FASHION Chainmail headgear by Chris Diaz; Ed cuff from Automaton Accessories Collection by Gold Dot

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FASHION 61

Urchin top by Leeroy New

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62 FASHION

Caraface silicone leg piece

by Leeroy New; spiked wedge by God Dot

STOCKISTS: LEEROY NEW www.leeroynew.com strycatcher@yahoo.com delirium.com.ph GOLD DOT http://golddot.multiply.com/ http://golddot.tumblr.com/ gold_dot_shop@yahoo.com Unit 4 Goldkey Mansion Pluto St. Brgy. Bahay Toro, Project 8, Quezon City, NCR, Ph, 1106 (+632) 455 4520

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OS ACCESSORIES http://os-accessories.com/ os.accesory@gmail.com AC+632 2/F, Greenbelt 5, Legazpi St., Ayala Center, Makati City, Philippines (+632) 758 2564 CHRISTINE CASPE-LAM caspe_tin@yahoo.com (+63) 908 879 5642 CHRIS DIAZ (+63) 917 740 1097 JING MONDEJAR (+63) 915 393 6819

FASHION 63 Black silicone Carapace dress by Leeroy New

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64 ART & FASHION

Photos by Everywhere We Shoot

Art & Fashion Convergence

LEEROY NEW Photo by Roy Macam

Despite his quick rise to commercial fame on the heels of his muscle dress’ debut in Lady Gaga’s “Marry the Night” album cover ensemble, the young avant-garde artist Leeroy New is, well, not new to spotlight.

Art enthusiasts from around the world have already experience his sci-fi/mythology inclined artworks that have been exhibited at the Singapore Biennale in 2008, Fukuoka Asian Art Triennale in 2009 and Philippine Fashion Week in 2010.

First of all, we are curious as to how and where it all began. Can you tell us how you got into the world of arts?

Leeroy’s pieces are unique, his talent is genius, and his creativity is original. Clearly an artistic icon in the making, this UP Fine Arts graduate and Ateneo Arts Awardee is the fresh talent to watch under the international arts radar. In an exclusive chat to Illustrado, Leeroy New shares his views on fashion, sculpting and, of course, Lady Gaga.

I guess it’s safe to say I started early simply because my formal arts training began when I entered the Philippine High School for the Arts. Upon entering college I was already set on practicing art ‘professionally’ via exhibits, doing street art, accepting commissions and design projects, etc. Along the way people and organizations have recognized my work and that has only encouraged me to continually pursue and evolve my practice accordingly. I get influenced by so

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ART & FASHION 65 Photo by Kevin Cajuca

That particular piece was done by employing sculpting and casting techniques. I initially sculpted the entire piece from clay which I made a mold of afterwards. From the mold I used a high-grade silicone to make the final product.

Seems like sculpting and fashion are quite distant disciplines, what made you decide to accept the project?

For me it’s only logical that my artistic practice intersect with the concerns of fashion among other things like industrial design, architecture, etc. The idea and techniques of sculpture or art for that matter is utilitarian for me and can be applied to and overlapped with other industries and contexts. With fashion, I look at it simply as my artistic practice incorporating if not emulating the human element, the physical body. I employ sculptural techniques and my sensibilities for form in dealing with the design problems posed by fashion since I am not trained in its traditional methods. I am influenced by many things from sci-fi, animation, fantasy RPGs, contemporary industrial design, mythology, other artists’ work as well as pioneering fashion designers who transcend traditional fashion language like Hussein Chalayan, Eiko Ishioka, Alexander Mcqueen and Iris Van Herpen.

You recently had Psychopomp’s Reef installation at Bonifacio Global City (BGC).

Can you briefly tell us the story behind this project, and are we going to see more of your works in the near future?

many things not isolated to the fine arts, paving the way to involve myself in film making, product design, theater design, performance works and fashion. Right now I’m working on a new set of sculptures for upcoming exhibits, a line of designer objects and a new collection of art-fashion inventions.

It is a huge thing to be hand-picked by the House of Gaga. How was your experience working on the Muscle Dress you specially created for her album cover?

During the latter part of 2010, I learned that a few of my works from Fashion Week 2010 have been requested for and sent (by a designer I’ve worked with) to Lady Gaga’s styling team. It had already been sent when I learned about it and I was just cool with it since nothing’s really happened yet, even though the idea was a bit exciting. The pieces were returned after a few weeks and were probably not used for anything. A little past mid of 2011 that same designer contacted me and told me that Lady Gaga’s styling team had requested for one of the pieces previously borrowed, a sculpted silicone top, and they wanted me to do a skirt to go with it, which I also did after being sent her measurements. The two piece ensemble was sent and the final modified look can be seen in the music video.

Psychopomp’s Reef is part of my Balete installation series (Balete or strangler figs because the original forms resembled those sinewy looking trees) using flexible conduits and cable ties to create otherworldly and alien forms. The very first version of this installation was formed during a residency in Australia where I had to come up with an exhibit on a budget so I had to scour the local recycling centers and encountered piles of discarded flexible hoses.

I played with the materials ‘weaving’ them with cable ties and what resulted were, for me, balete-looking forms. I have even extended this work into fashion and have created costumes for a local performance group.

I have no other plans but to keep on continuing and evolving what I do. So, yes, you will see more of my works in the form of fashion, sculptures, designer objects and architectural design. You can check out updates on my website www.leeroynew.com and Facebook page.

Lastly, artists are known to have ideals and advocacies. We would really want to know yours. What is your philosophy in life, and how do you manage to voice it out in your artworks?

I simply want to actively and effectively participate in the transformation of my immediate environment and sphere of influence via the various and multiple means of creative production I have chosen.

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THE CHICKEN AND THE EGG:

Samantha Sotto on Before Ever After

By Ana P. Santos

It might seem odd to start off a story with an appendix — a ruptured one at that —but that’s exactly how best-selling Filipina author Samantha Sotto starts off hers.

Well, it wasn’t my appendix that ruptured,” Sotto admitted, laughing. “It was my brother’s.”

Sotto’s first novel “Before Ever After” which debuted in August 2011 as the National Bookstore number one bestseller in the Philippines, and among the top 50 bestsellers on Amazon Books on the first few weeks of its international release, has created a buzz and interest in Sotto’s own story which is just as interesting as the plot of her book, Happy Even After.

Like why she was actually even speaking about her brother’s appendix to a group of 20 or so aspiring writers, journalists and fans about how she got her novel published.

Here she was speaking as a Filipino author published by New York publishing giant, Random House. And they were all excited to hear her story and were hanging on every word.

This was not exactly something that Sotto thought she would find herself doing. After quitting her corporate job, Sotto set up a business and then when that was humming along, moved on to another adventure of being a full-time mom.

But as it turns out, life had a different plan for her and her brother’s ruptured appendix was just the beginning.

“My brother is fine, now,” Sotto quickly added reassuring her audience before expounding on her journey to Before Ever After, which like the characters in her book was also filled with joyous and life-altering detours.

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Book Ideas It was while her brother was recovering from the appendix that Sam spent a lot of time in the hospital at his bedside. “I had time to kill so I read a book called “The Time Traveler’s Wife.”

The book left a lasting impression on Sotto who found herself thinking, “If I were to write a book, it wouldn’t end sadly.”

So persistent was this thought that in between reading a book and bringing her own kids to school, Sotto found herself doing just that — stringing words together and writing her own book.

“We live in Paranaque and my kids go to Ateneo. If I went home [after dropping them off], I would literally just arrive at our driveway at the exact time that I would have to go back and pick them up.”

So Sotto waited in Starbucks and made productive use of the three hours she had everyday by writing the story of Max and Shelley, a couple who met, fell in love and married in Europe. Actually, if you ask Sotto, these were characters that seemed to have been waiting for her to sit down at her computer and start typing. As her hands came in contact with her keyboard, Max and Shelley moved from being random ideas in her head to lead characters in a story.

“I was also inspired to re-live the time when I traveled to Europe when I was younger,” said Sotto who recalled that in her 20s, she sold her car just so she could travel to Europe with her best friend on a shoe string budget.

ILLUSTRADO PROFILE 67 “I think it was less than a shoe string budget. Our travel book was Europe on USD50 a day — that’s not a lot of Euros nowadays. We slept in tents and in all sorts of places. We would scrimp on food and budget one baguette to last us the whole day. Sometimes, we would cheer if we found that someone had left unopened packets of jam and butter on their table.” Sotto candidly shared.

Sotto’s own experience of Europe served as the backdrop for Max, the quirky tour guide who had a thing for chickens and baked eggs and cheese.

think about this as being a business of selling a book,” Sotto advise about handling rejection.

“I would get comments like ‘I’m sorry. This is not polished enough.’”

So Sotto — as she puts it - gutted the novel, trimmed it down to size and started the process of querying again.

Then she got a reply from an agent named Stephanie Kip Rostan.

This was another sign. “’Kip’ meant chicken in Dutch!” said Sotto.

Europe was the escape for Shelley, the woman who was always running from something in her life found herself on Max’s tour, discovering Europe in a van with a disco ball hanging in the middle.

A Sign: Publishing for Idiots “I had no intention of publishing the story, really,” said Sotto who says that before this book she had never really written anything before.

“I would just write and when I finished a chapter, I would send it off to my mom and my husband. They were my first editors and critics.”

Then Sotto received a sign.

While on holiday in Baguio, she came across a copy of “An Idiot’s Guide to Publishing” in Bookstore, a favorite go-to for previously loved and owned books.

Flashing a cover of the book on her PowerPoint presentation, Sotto clarified: “That’s not how the copy I bought looked. It was actually a much older copy.”

“It was literally just lying on a pile of books like someone wanted to get it, but just left it there. Maybe they thought that PHP50 was too expensive?!?”.

That became Sotto’s Bible and her guide on making her way into the publishing world.

Her first lesson was that you need to get an agent. The second lesson was that agents chose the authors they represent and not the other way around. The third lesson — which Sotto says was the hardest — was querying.

“You have to start writing to agents and telling them about your book. This querying process was harder than writing the book itself,” Sotto, who was not used to having to sell herself, wait for feedback, sometimes not getting any or getting rejected, bemoaned.

“You need to take away the sensitive writer’s side of you. You need to

And Sotto found herself an agent.

Not the end, just the beginning But if you think that was the end of the story that was actually the beginning. The story went through some editing between Sotto and her agent who then went on to pitch it to some publishers in New York.

It was another couple of months before Sotto’s agent told her that Random House wanted to buy the rights to her book.

It again went through another round of editing; it was almost another year before the book was printed.

“Before Ever After” was finally launched in New York in August 2011. On the heels of the launch were promotional tours, book signings, and other things all authors do.

“It’s been surreal and totally unbelievable. I never at all expected it to turn out this way. I never really thought about publishing the book, but at some point, it came to the point that we (my husband and I) just wanted to teach our sons to follow your dream no matter how crazy it may sound. Or at the very least try your best and try and try again.”

But Sotto insists that the accolades, topping the best selling list and the fame has not changed her at all. She still brings her kids to school, she still enjoys quiet wine and cheese TV marathons with her husband; she’s still writing, working on her second novel.

As an afterthought, she added - “Except well, now when I pick up my kids from, I come from the gym. More parents recognize me and say, ‘You! You’re the one’ and then will say, “Pa-picture tayo!’”, shared Sotto, referring to the Filipino custom of expressing pleasantries.

“My hair is still damp from my workout. That’s the only thing that has changed. I now need to dry my hair and bring another pair of clothes.”

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things To Do This

The past month may have come in a blur due to many festive parties that you’ve attended.

But that’s no reason to begin 2012 with a lax mood. Start the year with good vibes, and get excited twith events and experiences that will keep you active and moving all throughout the month. With Dubai celebrating its major shopping extravaganza, you may find a number of things that will fill your social calendar this January. Read on as Illustrado gives you a list of must-do to kick off your adrenaline this month.

Shop till you drop

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Need we say more? The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is back in its 17th edition, and we hope that you’ve saved up some cash or balance in your cards for this annual event that made Dubai into the shopping capital in the region. Over 6,000 retail outlets are expected to offer discounts, up to 70% off, throughout the course of the event, which has seen around AED1.4 billion worth of prizes being given away since its first edition in 1996. In addition to bargain sales promotions, shoppers with a minimum spend of AED200 get the chance to win luxury cars, cash and gold. A huge attraction every year, the draws add to the excitement of every DSF. This year will see major raffle draws – The Infiniti Mega Raffle, the Nissan Grand Raffle and the Gold Raffle where a total of 19 kilos of gold are to be given away to shoppers. So, ready yourself for the ultimate retail therapy, head on to your favorite mall, and be swept away by the amazing promotions of DSF till February 5.

Visit Dubai’s Street Entertainment

Aside from the activities offered in Dubai’s shopping malls, the main streets of the city transform as well during the 32-day DSF. Themed as the “Cultural Destination,” Al Seef Street – the avenue along Dubai Creek in Bur Dubai – comes to life at night with street performances, parades, and carnivals every evening during this festive month. The street is buzzing with Bazaars such as candle bazaars, sweets bazaar, honey bazaars and the likes. In addition to the bazaars there are many kiosks from yummy eatables to attractive merchandises. Meanwhile, Al Riqqa Street also becomes a main destination reflecting a ‘Fun and Entertainment Theme.’ In this vibrant street, visitors of all age groups are invited to witness circus shows, theatrical dances and fun fair activities. Al Riqqa Street will also host its popular ‘Night Souq’ offering unique finds at bargain prices. Last but not least Emaar Boulevard, the posh and well-known thoroughfare in Downtown Dubai, welcomes Dubai Carnival – a spectacular parade of eye-catching costumes, festive drumbeats, enchanting characters and lively performances generated by performers, who have flown into Dubai from all over the world to put on some astonishing acts whether they be jugglers, stilt-walkers, unicyclists, acrobats, dancers or musicians.

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Take your family to a Desert Camp

An outdoor event that will surely attract families, the Desert Camp is a getaway from the city and a return to nature.

Organized throughout January 5 to February 5, families and visitors have the options of renting tents for days or choosing from the endless number of activities designed for adventure enthusiasts. Attractions include quad bikes, in addition to barbecue facilities and an exclusive food court that will serve local cuisine amongst many others. Those who would like to indulge in a bit of shopping will even find a souk selling traditional clothes, handicrafts, and other traditional products. Children can look forward to a kiddy rides zone and an inflatable zone. The camp is open to public who can either book the tents or come in for a day. Desert Camp is located at Al Warqa 4. For more information, call +971600545555 or visit www.dubaievents.ae.

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Laze around the beach

Well, if the December holidays really exhausted your energy, then we suggest you do not lock yourself up at home in pyjamas. Get up, prepare your beachwear, and despite the chilly weather opt to go for a swim or simply bum by the beach. Well, there is nothing more heavenly for a tired body than to lie on the sand, listening to the sound of the waves, looking up at the blue sky, feeling the chills from the cold wind, and simply letting the time pass you by. We know that travelling for the holidays back home is fun, but also pretty stressful so you surely will come out of the beach rejuvenated and utterly relaxed. Without need of assurance, the beach is the ultimate way of detoxifying one’s mind from the infinite concerns and issues you have in life. So, do not waste a moment and simply head straight to the beach for some fun and lazy time. If your hotel only offers swimming pools (which of course are good alternatives to beaches), and you still need to feel nature in the desert, then the Jumeirah Beach Park and Mamzar Beach Park are some good affordable alternatives. Or, if you want to check out the beach resorts in Dubai, they offer day passes to non-guests. It entitles you to use their beach facilities including water sports such as kayaking, banana boat ride, jet skiing, surfing and a lot more. Le Meridien Mina Seyahi, Westin Dubai, Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab are some of the hotels that you can check out for the best beach views and amenities in the city.

Follow through your resolutions

Time and time again, we welcome the year with promises to change and improve. It is a must to remember that these are better done not just wished for. Most common of these resolutions include incorporating a healthy lifestyle.

If that’s the case then better start doing so. Choose to eat right, and stay away from the salty, the sweet and the oily.

Forget the junk and opt for the greens. Also, prepare for some active physical exercise. It is high time to hit the gym or run or pose for yoga or even dance – whatever suits your body, lifestyle, budget and time, make sure that you’ll be consistent. No amount of sacrifice will go unnoticed when you exercise regularly and eat right. Nonetheless, whatever your resolutions may be, keep on doing them, attract positive vibes, ditch your negative baggage and start the year right.

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Hugo Maes@Dreamstime.com

Illustrado Magazine

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BOHOL

Choose Your Own Philippine Adventure

By Niña Terol-Zialcita

Whether you’re off for some quiet time with a loved one or are looking for an earthy connection to Mother Nature, Bohol will satisfy your every vacation craving and give you an experience that’s truly yours.

72 BAKASYON GRANDE Photos by Nña Terol Zialcita and Nikka Sarthou

Maybe one reason why it’s difficult to pin this province down to a single slogan or marketing proposition is that it is one of those rare destinations that can truly cater to practically everyone.

In the age of package tours and one-size-fits-all holidays, it’s often challenging to find a destination that will have everything you’re looking for in one compact space. Beach holidays are often distinguished from food trips, and historical “photo walks” won’t always be available where outdoor adventures are the selling point.

Bohol stands out from other Philippine island groups because, even without the niche marketing tourism hype employed by other Philippine destinations, it naturally has everything that a traveler will need for a custom-fit good time.

Want to recharge your body and soul with some quiet time and healthy food? Bohol has just the place for you. How about breathtaking views and adrenaline inducing thrill rides? You’ll find it here, too. How about history and architecture, or eco-tourism hotspots, or affordable beachside accommodations? Bohol has all that, and more.

Maybe one reason why it’s difficult to pin this province down to a single slogan or marketing proposition is that it is one of those rare destinations that can truly cater to practically everyone.

Bohol has accommodations with character When in Bohol, resist the temptation to go for run-of-the-mill accommodations and treat yourself to a place that fulfills your need to be pampered. If you’re after days of peace and serenity, Bluewater Panglao’s luxe accommodations are your best bet. Located some 30 to 45 minutes away from Tagbilaran Airport, the resort encourages days of lounging by the pool or walking along the resort’s sprawling, manicured garden, and nights of intimate wine-drinking (again by

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the pool). If you’re after a more quaint, countryside feel, try out the Bohol Bee Farm, a bee farm-cum-bed and breakfast located in Dauis, Panglao Island. Aside from enjoying front-row seats to the fascinating culture of bees, Bohol Bee Farm also offers some of the best and healthiest treats you will encounter on the island. (See the next item on our list.) For some upscale beachside fun with friends, the Bohol Beach Club is a good option, as are some of the accommodations that you will find along Alona Beach, Panglao Island.

A general tip: To truly savor the luxury of time and space in Bohol, book your stay in any of the accommodations in Panglao Island. It will be pricier, but definitely worth the extra bucks.

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Have your fill of countryside thrills Different people get a kick out of different things, and you should be able to have your choice of icing on the proverbial cake. If you’re a history and culture buff who likes to take photos of colonial architecture and centuriesold churches, be sure to see the Baclayon Church in Baclayon (which is the second-oldest church in the Philippines), the Dauis Church in Dauis, Panglao, Café Lawis (just behind Dauis Church), and the Punta Cruz Watch Tower in Maribojoc. Also don’t miss the Blood Compact Monument in Tagbilaran City, a symbol of the “brotherhood” between the Boholano Datu Sikatuna and the Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legaspi.

If you haven’t yet heard of the Loboc Children’s Choir take the opportunity to see them perform in their hometown. A group of preadolescent singers renowned worldwide for their stirring, haunting renditions of some popular choral songs, Filipino folk favorites, and even political anthems such as Bayan Ko and Handog, their latest album, “River of Songs” pays tribute to the Loboc River and is available at the river terminal, just before you board the boat for the cruise.

And if you’ve had enough of the peace and quiet that seem to be the norm in Bohol, opt for a death-defying ride via the “Sui-slide,” a 480-meter ZipLine with an altitude of 200 meters. Located in Danao, it is both the longest and the highest ZipLine in the Philippines, and is sure to get your blood pumping after days of relaxation. To be sure, it will take more than a few days to fully experience everything that Bohol can offer the intrepid traveler, which also means that you’ll have plenty of reasons to keep coming back. However you decide to design your Bohol adventure, one thing is for sure: you won’t have to compromise on your idea of “fun” just to have your fill of the Philippines’ best open secret.

Photos by Nña Terol Zialcita and Nikka Sarthou

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Hugo Maes@Dreamstime.com.

Bohol lets you experience the most of Mother Nature’s abundance When Mother Nature decided to imbue her children with gifts, Bohol seemed to have been ahead of the pack, getting an abundance of conical karst formations now known as the Chocolate Hills, in Carmen; over a thousand caves, including the famous Francisco Dagohoy Cave in Danao (said to have been the headquarters of the revolutionary Francisco Dagohoy as he hatched his rebellion against Spain in 1744) and the spectacular Hinagdanan Caves in Panglao; a large number of breathtaking waterfalls, including the Pahangog Twin Falls in Dimiao; dolphins and whales swimming and jumping the Bohol Sea; and birds that may be viewed along bird-watching trails in the Rajah Sikatuna Park in Bilar. Bohol is also home to the Philippine Tarsier, a shy, nocturnal animal endemic to Bohol and known as the world’s smallest primate. For any avid environmentalist, the 16-hectare Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc and the 167-hectare Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary in Corella will be good places to see how man exercises stewardship over Nature.

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Philippine Tarsier

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Hugo Maes@Dreamstime.com

Getting there Getting to Bohol is fairly easy, with the province being accessible via air or sea from either Manila or Cebu.

From Manila, you can take a 75-minute plane ride aboard Philippine Airlines or Cebu Pacific, which fly daily to the Boholano capital of Tagbilaran.

From Cebu, you can take a 50-minute plane ride via Phillippine Airlines or Cebu Pacific or, for more cost-efficient travel, try the 90-minute fast boat such as that of Superferry.

There are numerous daily flights from Manila to Tagbilaran and Manila to Cebu.

To get around the island, it is best to hire a van that can take you around for day tours.

Nikolay Okhitin@Dreamstime.com

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My Pinoy Life in

Lae,PAPUA

NEW GUINEA Tess Guese

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Port Moresby, PNG’s capital

Since when have you been staying there? Can you recount briefly why you moved there?

PNG, on the other hand, flies domestic routes, as well as to Australia (Cairns and Brisbane).

I moved to Papua New Guinea (PNG) in August 1998 to work as a Chief Accountant with a biscuit manufacturing company.

PNG’s capital city is Port Moresby.

I worked and built my career in the banking industry in the Philippines for seven years but, unfortunately, I found that only the stress and pressure grew – not my bank account. A colleague asked me if I was interested to work overseas, and I said why not give it a try. So I signed a three year contract in 1998 and have been renewing it for the last 13 years.

Tell us something about your place Papua New Guinea is popularly known as “The Land of the Unexpected,” or the Island Paradise. PNG is very diverse in culture and has very rich natural resources. If you love nature this is the place to be. You will be surrounded by verdant surroundings. There are heaps of untapped rainforests and rich marine flora and fauna.

I live in Lae City in the Morobe Province, the second largest city in PNG. Lae is also the industrial city of PNG where most manufacturers set up their businesses. Lae City is the gateway to the highlands and the islands with easy access to the highlands highway.

It also has the largest shipping facility in the country. Also called the garden city, Lae has an amazingly verdant environment due to frequent rainfall.

In October, the Morobe Province celebrates the Morobe Province Agricultural Show which showcases the agricultural and industrial produce the provice has to offer. This is also the time when various villages’ put their culture and tradition on parade and display.

Is there a Filipino community there?

The people of PNG are quite unique. PNG has around 20 provinces, and the people in each province have their distinct physical features, culture and language.

There is a filipino community here in Lae and around Papua New Guinea. In fact, I think you can find Filipinos anywhere in the world. In Lae, I believe we already have over a thousand Filipinos living and working here including their dependents.

PNG is located above Australia and has two major local airlines - Air Niugini, which is the national carrier that flies to domestic routes and international routes such as Australia (Cairns, Brisbane and Sydney), Singapore, Honiara, Fiji, Tokyo, Manila and Hongkong. Airline’s

We have a Filipino association which helps fellow kababayans in times of need, though we also have our civic obligations to the community we live in. Our Filipino association holds fund raising activities to assist not only Filipinos who are in need, but also extend assistance

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Port Moresby parliament building

PNG natives

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Mt Tavurvur an active volcano in PNG

to our adoptive communities here. We give donations to the public hospitals, schools and churches.

We also have Filipino sports associations - basketball, badminton, tennis and golf, which keep camaraderie alive in our community.

The Filipino golfers of PNG normally hold their annual golfing competition in conjunction with the Queen’s birthday which normally falls on the second weekend of June. This tradition revolves around five key cities - Port Moresby, Lae, Madang, Goroka and Rabaul - which take turns in hosting the event annually. This event is another medium to get to know more of our kababayans around the country.

Tell us about your life there Life in PNG, especially in Lae is so simple but can be boring to some, since there are no malls and no movie houses. Supermarkets, including just a handful of restaurants, open at 8am and close at 6pm.

But 13 years of living here has allowed me to adapt to the slowpaced life PNG has offered me. On the plus side, you still breath fresh air, wake-up to the chirping of the birds, get your eyes refreshed time and time again with the lush green environment. Besides, there is also no traffic congestion, though you have to be careful and avoid potholes when driving around town.

During the weekends my life revolves around golf. I also assist in some community services like organising fund raising events for churches, public schools and some non-governmental associations.

What I have learned in this country is to be more vigilant and aware about your surroundings. This country also taught me how to be patient, because you will not get anywhere if you’re not.

Your greetings to Filipinos around the globe To our kababayans out there - hello and mabuhay from the land of the unexpected Papua New Guinea!

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Dreaming

KINABALU

The air was thin past 4,000 meters above sea level — enough to turn breaths into gasps, strides into crawls, and fervor and vigor into nausea and migraine. It didn’t help that it was a relentless race. Rome Jorge takes us on the Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon in Sabah, Malaysia - reputed to be the toughest in the world.

Exhaustion, the competition’s maddening pace and altitude sickness all conspired to turn this most arduous quest into a hallucinogenic trip to the dark side.

where many racers saw their dreams die. This place of desolate beauty has been a graveyard of ambition, where many competitors become a ghost of themselves.

The summit of Mount Kinabalu was stark and surreal. From a steep and narrow earthen path punctuated by seemingly endless stairs that snaked through a lush rainforest, runners emerged onto an unearthly lunarscape of bare gray volcanic rock that curved into whimsical spires. Outer space was a bit closer there; it seemed one could reach out to the void. The sky, a shade of azure fading into dark cobalt, pulsated in its unreal vibrancy and clarity. It was here, in clear sight of their goal — just some 500 meters from the mountain’s peak —

Only some 30 percent of runners finish the Mount Kinabalu Climbathon yearly. Those who failed to reach the checkpoint just below the peak by the cut-off time — two hours and 30 minutes for men below forty years of age and three and a half hours for women and men forty and above — were turned back and denied a rightful climax to their quest. Too many runners saw their hopes dashed.

And yet even here, the Filipino persisted and overcame.

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Slippery stairs are part of the trail

cook sets and stoves, skyrunners only have speed to protect them from the elements. It is necessary that they make it back promptly as they have no means to comfortably survive the wilderness beyond a few hours.

Besides long stretches of wooden steps that can be widely and unevenly spaced and are often slippery in the rain, rope climbs also punctuated the bare rock face part of the trail. Installed to make climbing humanly possible on the steepest parts of the trail, these nonetheless pose a challenge even for the fittest of runners.

Team Philippines

Staking the Philippine flag The Philippine Skyrunning Association (PSA) has been representing the country at this prestigious international event for four years running. The PSA formed after Filipino athletes participating in the Kinabalu Climbathon of 2007 found themselves to be the largest foreign contingent. Every year since, PSA has come back to Kinabalu for the challenge.

Nina Dacanay, president of PSA and veteran of the Kinabalu climbathon, explained the appeal of the skyrunning: “One looks to change routines and turn them up a notch. And of course, we long for progress. After track running or running on tartan and pavement, trail running provided a very welcome respite from the hard and sometimes monotonous road routes. Skyrunning is the next step after mountain running.”

Skyrunning is running conducted at mountain trails 2,000 meters above sea level (masl) or higher and with inclines as steep as 40 percent. Unlike road runs on predictable pavement that allow for a contemplative approach, running on mountain trails requires constant concentration with the runner having to consider the wisest footholds and routes over unpredictable terrain. Trail runners are also self sufficient, bringing with them their own water, trail food, headlamps, lightweight waterproof jackets and the bare minimum of emergency outdoor equipment in lightweight hydration packs.

But unlike conventional mountaineers who lumber with towering backpacks filled with multiday provisions such as tents, sleeping bags,

Dacanay revealed the appeal of Mount Kinabalu in particular and why it led to the formation of the PSA: “The Kinabalu Climbathon offered a challenge like no other I’ve encountered before and it introduced me to the growing niche sport of skyrunning. I wanted to share the experience with others… to allow them to experience a natural high with nature at its best in the background.”

What was intended as a test for those applying for the rapid rescue squad in 1987 has since become a prestigious race — part of the International Skyrunning Federation’s World Cup Series — that attracts the world’s best. These have included such luminaries as highly acclaimed Salomon athlete and product endorser Kílian Jornet and Mount Kinabalu record holder and 2010 champion Marco De Gasperi. Racers run up and down the mountain for a total of 21 kilometers, rising from 1,563.8 masl elevation to 4,095 masl and back, tackling continuously steep terrain and fickle weather.

For its part, the PSA has sponsored a professional Filipino athlete to compete with them every year. For 2011, it was Merlita Dunkin, highly acclaimed trail runner.

There is simply nothing like Mount Kinabalu, at least within the Philippines. The country’s highest peak, Mount Apo, rises only up to 2,954 masl. Besides Mount Kinabalu, other international skyraces that the PSA guns for include Mount Fuji in Japan and Mont Blanc in France. But it is Kinabalu, so accessible to Filipinos given its proximity, where they come in force to make their mark.

Dacanay revealed, “The mountain has given me so much inspiration and challenge that it never grows old. I keep on coming back also because of the unique company each year.”

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A bare rock face poses the ultimate challenge

and the deafening thud of your heartbeats as normal and necessary for the next four to six hours. Prepare physically, mentally and emotionally — not necessarily in this order. I found I lacked in one aspect in previous attempts.” Dacanay, herself a seasoned triathlete for the highly acclaimed Team David’s Salon, has finished the race once in her five attempts.

Besides the necessary training and mental fortitude, specialized equipment such as lightweight trail running shoes and hydration packs were a great advantage, hence the sponsorship of the PSA by Salomon, the acclaimed French outdoor gear brand. Still, there was no substitute for hard work.

Writer Rome Jorge

Making the cut Finishing the Kinabalu Climbathon has been no easy task. It took months of training and a high tolerance for pain. Dacanay advised, “Do not stop or rest and keep on moving and breathing. Learn to accept, embrace and welcome the burning sensation in your lungs

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To train, the PSA organized mountain runs months in advanced, gradually gaining altitude with each climb, culminating in Mount Pulag, Luzon’s highest peak at 2,922 masl, and at Mount Ugo, which has a 33-kilometer trail. Yet for all their training, nothing could truly have fully prepared them for the supremely arduous Kinabalu Climbathon.

TRIPPIN’ 83

The race was a two-day event. The first was for the women and veteran men’s (40 years of age and above) category and second was for the men’s open (39 years of age and below). But regardless of gender or age, the entire team came out in support.

Ecstasy and agony Booked in cottages just outside the Kinabalu Park, the Philippine delegation woke at 2AM on race day to the whirling sound of blenders and coffee makers. In contrast to many conventional mountaineers who often bring gin and marijuana to climbs, the skyrunners are geeks of the outdoors who prefer fruit and vegetable smoothies with their Herbalife nutrition supplements and whey protein mixes.

They packed energy bars and sports gels and had their training and equipment down to a science. They saw themselves as performance athletes, not tie-dyed easy-going hippies.

Braving the dark and chilling mountain breeze, they headed to the starting line Timpohon Gate to await the gun start with the world’s best. It was a festive atmosphere with the Malaysians psyched by gamelan percussionists and the Japanese goaded by a one-man cheering squad waving paper fans emblazoned with the rising sun and shouting banzai to everyone’s amusement. Not to be outdone, the Philippine team was resplendent in their widely admired uniforms — one of the few delegations to be garbed in such. But despite jovial smiles and rampant picture taking, the tension was palpable as racers steeled themselves for the mountain run.

The race began with a charge as the trail quickly narrowed as it wound its way through the forest. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kinabalu Park boasts first-rate facilities and well-maintained trails.

But to the racers, it was all blur as they scrambled up the steep steps and jostled to get ahead of one another.

Yet even in the midst of such fierce competitiveness, there were respites of warm camaraderie. Jornet and other members of the Salomon Team competing in the Men’s Open race the next day

84 TRIPPIN’

positioned themselves on the trail itself to offer cheers and a helping hand to those participating in the women’s and men’s veteran race.

After every kilometer, there were tin-roofed shacks with benches and rest rooms. The running water sourced from mountain springs was potable. Each toilet even has a bidet. There were always trail signs and wooden rails where they need to be. There were also aid stations that dispensed water bottles as well as muscle ache sprays.

After six kilometers of hard packed dirt trails, large boulders began to crowd the trail. Competitors then arrive at Laban Rata, a high altitude resort facility with tin huts, bunk beds, hot showers, mess halls and a delicious buffet. Considered Spartan anywhere else, these facilities and amenities are a luxury at this elevation.

Getting there From Manila Cebu Pacific flies directly from Manila to Kota Kinabalu on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Air Asia flies directly from the Macapagal Airport in Clark.

Past Laban Rata, the terrain transformed into a dreamscape of bare volcanic rock. Gloves were a necessity as runners pulled themselves up on steeped portions of the trail with the aid of huge ropes. It was here that many began to feel the debilitating effects of altitude sickness.

The surreal beauty of being within sight of the peak contrasted with wretched feeling within. For many, they struggled with what seemed a personal nightmare. And yet they persevered.

From Dubai

Doing the Philippines proud, PSA-sponsored athlete Merlita Dunkin ranked 21st in the women’s category. In the Men’s Open race the next day, Jemarvin Septimo Cabilan and Leo Sarabosing Colonia garnered 11th and 12th place respectively.

The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu is during June to August when the weather is most conducive to strolling and exploring the country. Weather during the months of March to May is ideal for visiting the country’s beaches.

Even in the dreamscape that is Mount Kinabalu, the Philippines has made its mark.

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There are a number of airlines that offer connecting flights from choice hubs around the world to Kota Kinabalu. Etihad Airlines flies from Dubai to Kota Kinabalu with a stop in Kuala Lumpur. Singapore Airlines flies from Dubai to Kota Kinabalu via Singapore.

ADVERTORIAL 85

Nakpil’s “Myself, Elsewhere” Now Worldwide on Amazon Kindle

hopes to nurture and encourage the budding talents in the region.

Carmen Guerrero Nakpil’s “Myself, Elsewhere,” the first volume of the best-selling memoir of a lost Manila and a forgotten Ermita, is now available worldwide on Amazon’s Kindle Store.

Highlighting some very young and promising talent from the UAE, Art Nation has over 50 artists participating. To introduce a few - Naif Taha, created the Mona Lisa out of hundreds of Rubik cubes; Tilika D’Souza transforms walls in to works of art and will be working on a live mural; Malini Karani will be producing chalk art (Rangoli) live; Sara El Tayeib will be showing off her skills to turn anything in to art; Ashwin Pillai will be showcasing 3D art; Noopur Ahuja will be showcasing Sculptures and 3D Art; Sumaiya Ebrahim will be displaying her photographs; Sarita Kolhatkar showing animation and comic art; Biji Divakaran will be exhibiting her paintings; Purvi Verma Saini will be exhibiting ceramic art which uses a dab of coffee.

Plus, ABRA Visual Merchandise and Store Design will be launching its Home Collection conceptualized by K Govindan and produced

by ABRA VMSD.

The first of Carmen Guerrero Nakpil’s autobiographical trilogy has now broken into the digital age and is accessible to her fans to download anywhere on the planet with an internet connection.

Art Nation will be opening its doors from the 25th of January till the 28th of January at the Global Village. There will be live performances daily which will be free for the public.

Nakpil Publishing stated that it “wished to connect Carmen Guerrero Nakpil’s invaluable memories and insights of a Philippines that was (and might have been) to a whole new generation of readers.” The book may be downloaded on Kindles, Ipads, Android tablets, and mobile phones. “Myself, Elsewhere” with companion piece, “A Christmas Memoir.” “A Christmas Memoir” is a recollection of the holidays in 1930’s Ermita.

Art Nation, conceptualized and organized by Woman2Woman, is supported by the Global Village, ABRA VMSD, MUSE, Palmers, AVON, Dubai in a Frame, Illustrado, and Radio Spice 105.4 FM.

Writing about “Myself, Elsewhere”, Ambassador Virgilo Reyes, Jr, says it is “as many-layered and as rich as a millefeuille pastry or a slice of sans rival. Not only is it autobiography and memoir but also history, social commentary and a priceless snapshot of a lifestyle and an era in the district of la Ermita, whose tiny size belied its stellar role in antebellum Manila. Indeed, the book is not simply a compilation of previously published essays, but a riveting, totally original and candid revelation, (in her own words, she has “opened a vein”) of a privileged youth but also of painful memories involving the destruction not only of a way of life but also of lives unnecessarily wasted and traumatized in a horrific war.”

“Crisp, clear and compelling prose teleports the reader to the optimistic era of Manila from the 1920s to the ’40s. This dexterous bit of time-travel enriches the book’s narrative, making it both fond and yet reflective, a gambit of symphony,” says reviewer Ruel S. de Vera.

“Myself, Elsewhere” won the Philippine National Book Award, for Best Autobiography, in 2006.

Art Nation: Art that is street smart!

Opening minds with unconventional art forms, Art Nation is a show that is conceptualised to offer opportunities to artists to express their creativity without any boundaries or restrictions. It’s a show that

UAE Exchange New Year Fest: Zip away in a NISSAN XTERRA Lucky customers are set to get a real New Year treat with one million in cash, two Nissan Sunny cars and one Nissan XTerra to be won at UAE Exchange New Year Fest from the 1st December 2011 to the 3rd February 2012. Plus, 100 lucky customers will get their transaction amount back.

In the four fortnightly draws, a total of 100 customers will win their transaction amount back in their respective payout currencies, up to a maximum of 10,000 for each winner. Two monthly draws will have a Nissan Sunny car each, as the prize. The mega draw will see the lucky customer driving home a Nissan Xterra. All individual transactions, made during the promotion period of 65 days, will qualify for the draws.

While announcing the launch of the promotion, Mr. Y. Sudhir Kumar Shetty, COO – Global Operations, UAE Exchange, said, “We have recently completed 31 years of eventful service and each year has been a milestone in the success of UAE Exchange. This promotion is our way of saying “thank you” to our customers, who are the reason for our success.”

UAE Exchange, which has over 555 direct offices in 29 countries across five continents, is one of the largest networks among remittance brands.

86 BAYANIHAN CORNER

New Year’s Resolutions:

MgaPangakong di Mapapako

By Ambassador Grace Relucio-Princesa

The past year saw the Philippine Embassy Country Team partner with the NGO Atikha and Bayanihan Council of Abu Dhabi in launching the OFWs (Overseas Filipinos Worldwide) PINOY W.I.S.E (Worldwide Initiative for Investment, Savings and Entrepreneurship) Project. Before 2011 ended, we were able to connect Bayanihan with its counterpart federation of Filipino organization heads in Dubai, the FILCOM, to undertake the Financial Literacy Training of Trainors (FIN LIT-TOT) project, slated to assist Filipinos in a future reintegration or circular migration phase.

Rolling-out financial literacy This then, is the first resolution we should undertake in the Bayanihan ng mga Bayani spirit: that the seven batches so far trained in 2011 (estimated at 250 people), should now be able to train more trainers in order to fast-track this much needed skill to maximize the gains of migration and mitigate its pains.

Resolution number one has already been launched and has gained the support of the FILCOM. As I write this, I have just received an invitation to speak at the opening of FIN LIT TOT on the 13th and 20th January 2012, to be held in Abu Dhabi. Many more such trainings are in line throughout the year.

Undoubtedly, it is a financial disaster for anyone to live without the knowledge of budgeting and planning how to spend one’s hard earned income. This bitter truth has been experienced by OFs not just here in the UAE but in also other parts of the world. Thankfully, our kababayans have seen the need for the sustainability of this initiative and have gone out of their way to volunteer their time and sometimes, resources, to keep this worthwhile project going.

Gaining knowledge on sustainable development The second resolution I propose is for the FILCOM to undertake the first baby steps towards gaining knowledge on sustainable development issues - i.e climate change, renewable energy and etc., by re-activating the STAC (Science and Techology Advisory Council) to help us in the aforementioned issues in cooperation with relevant

Illustrado Magazine

It’s that time of year when we open ourselves to new beginnings. It is the season to look back on lessons learned from the past 12 months to improve and build on good practices and minimize, or if possible eliminate, negative experiences. And finally, make resolutions that we are dead set on achieving. agencies in the Philippines and with our host government.

The presence of the inter-governmental organization IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency) headquartered in Abu Dhabi is a blessing. According to former President Bill Clinton, whom I had the privilege of meeting last December during his participation in the Eye on the Earth Summit, we have done well in using renewable energy as 25 percent of our energy source. This is better than the scenario in the USA, according to our Department of Energy. Likewise, Masdar in Abu Dhabi, the first carbon–free city in the world, is another potential partner that the Philippines and Filipinos can have in its journey towards sustainability.

I have said in my advocacy speeches that aside from us being in the top four source of labor supply and recipient of remittances in the world, unfortunately, we are also one of the top destinations of natural disasters. Ondoy in 2009, Pedring, Quiel and Sendong last year are sad reminders of our seeming lack of realization that it will be a vicious cycle for our beloved country if we close our eyes to what we can do to alleviate the effects of nature’s wrath that we contribute to bring about. The latter we do through our lack of respect for the environment - mindless deforestation that results in floods; unmindful disposal of garbage clogging rivers that overflow in seasonal rains; and over use of energy with maximum reliance on fuel consumption.

We, Filipinos, should harness all our knowledge and resources, both public and private, to promote disaster preparedness, mitigation and adaptation.

This second resolution will have to wait twelve months to be reviewed for its success and sustainability. Still, I am positive that the Bayanihan ng mga Bayani will deliver as it has delivered these last years. And with this sense of optimism I can proudly say that we will have a prosperous and happy New Year.

God bless us all! Mabuhay po tayong lahat!

88 COMMUNITY

Juman, and Giordano outlets in Karama, Reef Mall and Al Ghurair, to accommodate those who missed the event, as well as corporate fund raising from corporate donors. The final turnover of total donations collected will be at the end of January 2012.

PHILIPPINES

Bikers bring 11,178 solar bottle bulbs to underprivileged homes

UAE

Hakbang Buhay for Sendong Victims Filipinos came in droves to Safa Park on the 6th January 2012, braving the cold early morning air, to participate in Hakbang Buhay - a charity walk organized for the benefit of the victims of typhoon Sendong (washi). The project, spearheaded by the Philippine Business Council of Dubai, led by Lucille A. Ong, supported by the Philippine Consulate General – Dubai and the Northern Emirates, as well as FILCOM Dubai and Northern Emirates saw Filipinos from all walks of life contributing to the relief endeavor. The event was held under the auspices of the UAE Red Crescent and the Islamic Affairs for Charitable Activities Department.

The upbeat morning affair featured warm up exercises from Fitness First trainers, The Philippine School Drum and Bugle band leading the walk, a Giordano apparel charity sale, as well as booths from various other sponsors such as Western Union, Saucony, and The Filipino Channel, facilitated the collection of over AED60,000 worth of personal donations. Participants’ mood was further boosted by the announcement of a US$100,000 donation from the UAE Red Crescent’s head Mohammed Al Zarooni to the Philippine National Red Cross.

Proceeds from the charity drive were immediately turned over to the UAE Red Crescent. The charity fund drive, however, will continue with Red Crescent boxes placed The Original Barrio Fiesta in Bur

Illustrado Magazine

On the 30th November 2011, a day that traditionally commemorates the revolutionary leader Andres Bonifacio, a modern-day movement brought light to thousands of homes in 30 communities in 17 cities throughout the National Capital Region.

MyShelter Foundation’s latest venture, Isang Litrong Liwanag (A Liter of Light), is a nation-wide sustainable lighting campaign which aims to bring the solar bottle bulb to underprivileged communities nationwide. The vision is to brighten up a million homes by 2012.

The event rallied a diverse group of volunteers. Over a thousand

COMMUNITY 89

bikers participated in delivering the validated 11,178 eco-friendly solar bottle bulbs. Certified accountants were present to authenticate this world record attempt as the largest grassroots green-lighting program. Social and environmental advocates, including Miss Earth 2010 Nicole Faria, were present to show their solid support. Rotary Club members to the Armed of Forces of the Philippines helped with the fabrication and installation of the units.

Starting in Camp Aguinaldo, the bikers bearing solar bottle bulbs led the group to the Pinaglabanan Shrine in San Juan, where a symbolic turnover of the bottle bulbs was made to local communities, as represented by San Juan City Mayor Guia G. Gomez. The event culminated with the actual installation of bottle lights in several San Juan communities. Meanwhile, simultaneous programs were taking place in the 16 other cities around the metro.

Isang Litrong Liwanag has already garnered international attention and support. Illac Diaz, executive director of MyShelter Foundation, was invited to speak in front of 152 world leaders at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) secretariat special event “Momentum” which took place at the COP 17 conference in December 6 in Durban, South Africa.

“In a post-disaster situation, only volunteerism can de-commercialize the solutions; only volunteerism can de-politicize the situation; only heroism can bring concrete hope,” stated Gawad Kalinga (GK) leader Luis Oquinena during the briefing of multi-sectoral partners in Iligan on the 4th January 2012. Led by Mayor Lawrence Cruz, the City of Iligan is now on full reconstruction mode and has asked GK to be the lead implementer to ensure that the new communities to be built for Sendong victims are safe and peaceful, and become a haven where they can slowly begin to rebuild their lives again.

This ushers in the next phase in GK’s journey with Sendong victims

The Solar Bottle Bulb is a device based on the principles of Appropriate Technologies – a concept that provides simple and easily replicable technologies that address basic needs in developing communities.

This solar light can be created with just a plastic bottle, water, bleach, rubber-based sealant and a metal sheet–a testament to MyShelter Foundation’s capacity-building and employment generating projects.

“We strive for sustainable development and empowerment,” reveals Diaz. “Therefore we use materials easily found in even the poorest communities and manufacturable by simple tools, then spread it through grassroots entrepreneurship.”

Walang Iwanan: Team GK Leads Reconstruction Efforts in Iligan

that started as early as two days after flash floods ravaged through Cagayan de Oro, Iligan and Dumaguete, bringing massive devastation and loss of lives. The NGO activated project GK Walang Iwanan for Typhoon Sendong victims. Throughout the holiday season, Team GK was hard at work mobilizing resources and volunteers to bring relief goods to hard-to-reach areas and conduct psychosocial trauma support to victims especially the children.

To welcome 2012, GK embraces the greater challenge of rehabilitation and reconstruction to get families out of evacuation centers and help them rebuild their lives again. According to the NGO, more than homes, the victims need a sense of community and a committed team to hand-hold them until they are able to get back on their feet and start the process of recovery, giving them a sense of security in the knowledge that they have someone to lean on – that there are people out there who will not leave them behind.

The next three months will see tremendous work from all sectors involved in the project of relocating the Sendong victims. In Iligan alone, GK hopes to build 3,000 homes in the next few months.

90 ONLI IN DA PILIPINS

Onli In Da Pilipins - 1. n. a phrase used to define anything or anyone that only exists anywhere in the 7,107 islands of the Philippines || 2. adj. a phrase used to describe a Pinas episode or a Pinoy persona so rare one would never find anywhere else in the WWW (whole, wide world). It merits a documentation of some sort.

Cross my Heart,

HOPE TO DIE

By Aby Yap

It’s another New Year, and you know you can’t escape that milliondollar question again: “What’s your New Year’s resolution?” (Clichés never die.)

Blame it on talk and radio shows, colleagues attempting small talk, friends who are running out of things to put on their FB status update, or on New Year itself, but it’s bound to stay among the trending topics this month.

The Most Promising

Any honest politician (the last two words don’t look like they belong together) will tell you that promises are made to be broken. That goes for New Year’s resolutions too.

So, does that mean that Pinoys are an undisciplined and undetermined lot who can’t seem to fulfill our own personal vows even just for the whole year?! Oops.

Don’t launch a revolution yet. Note the operative phrase this month, meaning you get haunted by the question only during January (because there will be a different, tougher question in February — “Who’s your Valentines date?” — (ha ha!). Anyway, does anyone really expect you to stick to these New Year’s resolutions? As in, promise?

Well, we have our share of weaknesses (showbiz!), on top of that is the fact that some of us aren’t even sure what a resolution is. Do spreading peace on Earth, winning the lotto, and having a Coca-Cola shaped body (not the canned or 1.5-liter bottle, of course) constitute a resolution?

Now, that’s another million-dollar question.

Don’t laugh. This is based on a true story. [Note to self: check FB comments to “What’s your New Year’s resolution?” status update later.]

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ONLI IN DA PHILIPPINES 91

Remember how many hearts were wounded, crushed, and/or pulverized in the 80s when Sharon Cuneta and Gabby Concepcion ended their marriage after that grand Manila Cathedral wedding of the decade? Not even Ninong Macoy could restore their broken vows.

There’s Janice de Belen and her failed love affairs with three of the best-looking guys ever in showbiz (lucky girl!) — Gabby Concepcion, Aga Muhlach, and John Estrada — who turned out to be not so good at keeping their promises. To her, at least…

Huwatt?! Yes, dear folks, a wish list is totally different from a resolutions list. Surprise! Aside from being impossible dreams, it’s a number of things that you WANT to happen and sometimes send to Vicky Morales so they can come true. However, you have to perfect your singe-tear mode of acting before the camera starts rolling.

A resolution list, on the other hand, is shorter because it’s harder; it includes things that you MAKE happen. (Maybe that explains why we deliberately mistake a wish list for a resolution list.) It’s a case of “I will <insert action word here>,” so you now have: • I will stop fighting with my Videoke buddies over who will sing Basang-basa sa Ulan.

• I will finally invest PHP20 to bet on my Lola’s special numbers • I will go on a hunger strike until Kris Aquino learns to shut up or act, whichever comes first.

BUT, and this is why countless resolutions don’t make it past January 31, “I will” isn’t just a chant; it also requires willpower, which unfortunately can’t be bought from the nearest sari-sari store.

Otherwise, many of us will have executed the One-Legged King Pigeon Yoga Pose by now. Plus, it’s much more fun hoarding all the Aegis songs, playing DOTA than saving for a lottery ticket, or eating lechon while watching The Biggest Loser. Carpe diem!

Besides, didn’t the Mayan calendar predict that the world would end on December 21, 2012?

Huwatt?! No more annual New Year’s resolutions to create and break?!

The Mayan people were way too KJ! Let’s see what Nostradamus has to say about that.

Pangako sa ‘Yo Who can show better than anyone else that promises, unlike diamond rings, aren’t forever, but our favorite movie stars?

Lucky in love (the one that gives you goose bumps), Kris Aquino is definitely not. Philip Salvador, Joey Marquez, James Yap, Ted Failon, Junjun Binay, et al, obviously dared break their declaration of undying affection for the Queen of All Media. But perhaps Kris didn’t honor her word to be mum once and for all about private life? Just a super wild guess based on her interview with Boy Abunda where she said she would answer all questions about her and James once and for all — and we quote — “para maka-move on na ang bayan.”

For Andi Eigenmann, her last TV series titled Minsan Lang Kitang Iibigin might as well be her farewell dialog to Albie Casiňo for walking out on their pledge of love and their baby. Well, that’s according to rumors.

Rumors have it, too, that Claudine Barreto and Raymart Santiago are now living separate lives. (Here’s the perfect moment to take that Phil Collins CD out of your baul and play it to set the mood.) And since she even went to the bank with a lawyer and made a scene — not for reel but for real—is it another case of forgotten wedding vows?

Not to be outdone, KC Concepcion also had her own emotional outburst — for reel and/or real with co-star Tito Boy — destroying Piolo’s heartthrob reputation, er, the promise of a fairy tale love story with Prince Charming. Tsk, Papa P shouldn’t have gifted her with a 5-year supply of Frederic Malle parfum.

And for a fitting finale, we have Mo Twister and Rhian Ramos.

(How on earth he won her is beyond the understanding of many, so we’d rather not go there.) Break-up over Twitter, redefinition of The Scarlet Letter, violation of privacy, his relocation to US (rejoice!), her filing of harassment lawsuits, their making-out video on the net — these are exactly the elements you need for a promising telenovela called Pangakong Napako.