ILLUSTRADO Magazine_Nov 2010

NOV 15 - OCT 15 2010

46

Weird & Wonderful

STRANGELY PINOY BEYOND THE GRAVESTONES FASHION: LOST IN LIMBO SPIRITUALITY: PINOY BREAKTHROUGH MY PINOY LIFE IN SLOVENIA VERONICA PEDROSA: IN THE RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME HAUNTED HOLIDAY ANNIE B. CHRONICLES

EDITOR’S NOTE

Photo by Eros Goze

Collectively eclectic, homogeneously

odd

We live in such a rich world bursting at the seams with joyful variety everywhere you turn. Living in the Gulf, which is a melting pot of hundreds of different races highlights this fact to even greater effect. All of us here have gotten so used to so many different cultures, the myriad sights, the sounds of diverse tongues, to different mindsets and lifestyles, that this has become the norm for us by and large.

But the world around us is not the only one that is filled with diversity. A close look at the lives of Filipinos around the world will confirm that in our own ‘smaller’ scale, we have such an eclectic community filled with interesting extremes.

You could even daresay that Filipinos have one of the most diversified cultures in the world, owing to foreign influences in our history and our continued evolution as a people in diaspora.

Those of the opinion that Filipinos are brown skinned, of medium built and live life by tradition, should think again.

Consider the way how are race has become mixed with other races all these years giving rise to a curious ethnic group of kayumanggis, mestizas, Asian hybrids, Filipino-Americans, Filipino-Europeans, Filipino-Arabs and even FilipinoSubcontinental.

Lifestyle-wise, it is not anymore, a “one size fits all” scenario for Pinoys across the globe. True, there will always be the traditional and conservative, but there are those who are ultra modern and even those who live a completely deviant lifestyle. It has been a norm for us to live with both eastern and western influence. The more we become exposed to the world, the more we become different as individuals. What used to be touted as abnormal, unusual or unexpected within traditional Filipino context have now become new additions to the richly diversified life we live, as a highly eclectic race.

Still, there will always be the ties that bind. Beyond the sense of belongingness to our country, our collective nostalgia, and the very blood that flows in our veins, we are connected together, strangely enough, by our oddities as a people.

Whether they are as mundane as our body language and physical nuances, our sometimes peculiar take on food, our bordering on ridiculous observance of superstitious beliefs, or more serious like Filipinisms that define our actions and practices, even our strange take on nationalism that feeds on sentimentality, forgetfulness and celebrity worship, they are all characteristics that weirdly but definitely define the Pinoy.

So in this month of the “Weird and Wonderful,” Illustrado takes a look at some of the bizarre, things which makes our lives as Filipinos truly interesting, on top of our monthly mix of informative and engaging offerings. We hope you enjoy reading through the pages of our magazine.

Have a great November!

Taas Noo, Filipino!

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Send your letters to: editor@illustrado.net or join the discussion at Ilustrado magazine’s page on facebook Very educational and very inspiring! I always enjoy reading your magazine, but especially your Entrepreneurs issue, as I’ve been dreaming of having a business to call my own for the longest time. In fact, my friend and I have already been selling accessories and dresses on the side, for the last six months, and are enjoying the extra earning. Sipag lang and resourcefulness talaga! But I’m hoping to do this full time someday, when I’m financially stronger to go on my own.

Barcy Tengco Happy and proud! Taas noo kahit kanino!

Angat tayong mga Filipino. Good luck and more power Illustrado Magazine!

Ralph Laurenciana Dela Cruz

Illustrado’s Entrepreneurship Issue

Catholic Mass Media Awards Nomination Thank you for a very enlightening October issue! You gave me a lot of interesting information to read, and lots to think about – particularly my ultimate goals and my family’s future. Since I have lived in the emirates only for a short time (three years this year) I never had the chance to ask about setting up a business venture.

Back in the Philippines, my brother and his wife have their small business (garments) and they are able to live a decent life, and send their kids to a good school. So I have always wondered if I could be successful without working as a regular employee.

Now Illustrado magazine has given me a hard push to start saving money so that I can have some capital to have my own business – hopefully someday.

Amparito Robles

Appreciate very much your article “Going Solo” in your October 2010 issue. I am an aspiring photographer dreaming of setting up my own photography business someday.

It’s good to know that I can get a freelance license from free zones like the Dubai Media City. This has really inspired me to put my plans together, and makes my boring and stressful job, a bit more bearable. Looking forward to the future! Thanks, Illustrado!

Shutteraddict 888

I will pray for you no matter what happens. I salute you. Here in Malta, you are a model for all Filipinos. All the best!! Mabuhay ka at ang buong Illustrado team!

Manuel Rollan – Malta

Photography Talents in Focus Being featured in Illustrado Magazine is such an honor. For me it is precious...

Congratulations to all Filipino talents! More power to the Illustrado Magazine team!!!

Mario Cardenas Once again, you have proven that Illustrado is really a good platform to showcase and recognize Filipino talent. This has inspired me more to strive harder. Thank you so much for this opportunity! Mabuhay!

Harry Cruz Napakahusay ng mga featured Pinoy fotogs!

Award-winning pa ang iba! Their work is inspiring to other Pinoy photo hobbyists like me. Kudos to Illustrado for providing an opportunity to Pinoy photographers to showcase their work.

Boyet Damot

Super Good news! And a well deserved one!

Yes, the nomination alone is already an award in itself. Congratulations to the whole Illustrado team. FYI my sister, Corazon, was a Catholic Mass Media Awardee for Feature Writing. She wrote an article on then Mother Teresa.

Thank you very much to all the people behind Illustrado.

She won and the award ceremony was held Randy Ramos Recio at the Cardinal’s Palace in Mandaluyong with Cardinal Sin awarding the winners.

Thank you Illustrado for continuously giving It is a very prestigious award. us inspiration to do better. Arian Marcos Lucille A. Ong

Hey, congrats Illustrado! Big win here! Can’t Empowered Filipinas unite wait for the final good news. But whatever the outcome, para sa akin, panalo na ang Thank you! I love the magazine, and love the Empowered Filipinas video! Let’s connect Illustrado. as all geographically separated Pinoys do.

Al P. Manlangit, Kuwait Mabuhay! Life, light, love to you and all you You got their attention! All for the best, do.

Illustrado! As for me, you guys are always Perla Paredes Daly - USA my winner.

Truly, I am quite interested in what you Agnes Pedrosa Mårelid just initiated. Good on you all empowered We are proud of you and the Illustrado Filipinas. I believe I have something to share. team! Congratulations! As they say here... I have been here in Australia for a good 23 years. I am proud of our Philippines and I SUCCESS! You will be in our prayers. know for a fact that my preparation was 100% Chi Torrato Servigon – Indonesia Philippines. LUZVISMINDA WAS MADE IN THE Wow! That is an amazing award, Lalaine! PHILIPPINES. Congratulations in advance! You know what? Luzvisminda Balsamo Reyes Treccase You deserve it and the entire Illustrado team. Australia

CONTRIBUTORS Bo Sanchez

Preacher in Blue Jeans, Bro. Bo explains to us in this issue the importance of “planting” and planting some more, in order to attain breakthrough that would lead to the “harvest season” of our lives. Read his column ‘Spirituality’ for some relevant and timely life changing insights.

Krip Yuson

Illustrado’s “Illuminati” regular, legendary author Krip Yuson observes the “wired and wonderful” goings on in the Philippines, noting the growing Pinoy fondness for trivia and chica courtesy of the online revolution.

JR Bustamante

Freelance writer and PR professional JR Bustamante alerts us that there are things probably scarier than your typical ‘garden variety’ Halloween characters like vampires and witches, and they lurk inconspicuously behind the most unsuspected places in – The Spirit of the Trees.

Aby Yap

Illustrado contributor Aby Yap of “Onli in da Philippines” infamy, takes a break from her funny girl writer role, to interview probably the most prominent Filipino in the international news circuit – ex-CNN and now Al Jazeera International’s lead anchor Veronica Pedrosa in Illustrado Profile.

Eros Goze

Known for his darkly dramatic photography style, photographer and fashion designer Eros Goze captures the distinctly surreal mood of the month in this issue’s fashion editorial – Lost in Limbo.

Excel Dyquianco

Travel and sports junkie, freelance writer Excel Dyquianco takes a detour from the usual Philippine holiday itinerary to visit some of the metro’s ‘quietest’ places, reserved only for the dead, to marvel at the art and historical markers beyond the gravestones.

Sherry Tenorio

Weird or normal? Writer and editor Sherry Tenorio sifts through some fairly bizarre Pinoy nuances nonFilipinos will never understand in this month’s feature – Strangely Pinoy

Publisher & Editor-in Chief Lalaine Chu-Benitez Associate Editor Vic Lactaoen CONTRIBUTING WRITERS UAE, Philippines, USA Aby Yap JR Bustamante Anna Lorraine Balita Jude Cartalaba Bernadette Reyes Karen Galarpe Bo Sanchez KC Abalos Carlito Viriña Krip Yuson Chayie Maligalig Lawrence Diche David Poarch Shar Matingka Excel Dyquiangco Sherry Tenorio Flordeliz Samonte Sonny Guzman Francisco Colayco Vic Lactaoen Isabel Warren Victor Sollorano Isabelo Samonte Ivan Henares Jack Catarata Jesse Edep ART DIRECTORS Tom Bolivar Paula Lorenzo Ron Perez CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS UAE Illuminado Ong Pot Ph Ik Lumberio Melandro Sanggalang Mac Antonio Jit Sanggalang Eros Goze CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS PHILIPPINES Dr. Marlon Pecjo Glenn Peter-Perez Filbert Kung CONTRIBUTING STYLISTS & FASHION TEAM UAE Zekundo Chu Basil Yunting Jessie Tabla Gene 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.illustrado.agilaglobal.net PRINTERS PRINTWELL PRINTING LLC P.O. Box 18828 Dubai, UAE Copyright Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2006-2010. 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.

36 CONTENTS

NOV 2010

Models Filipina-British Angelia Jade Benjamin and Filipina-Austrian Zoe Pflieger are “Lost in Limbo” in this month’s otherworldly fashion editorial.

FEATURES

Strangely Pinoy 10 Spirit of the Trees 14 Ballet Lovers at the Center Stage 54

60

REGULAR COLUMNS

Editor’s Note 1 Letters 2 Contributors 4 Contents 5 Illuminati: Wired and Wonderful 8 Pinoy Pro 16 Pinoy Entrepreneur 18 Kabuhayan: Franchising a Salon Business 20 Kabuhayan Money: Saving Through Christmas and Beyond - 22 Spirituality: Pinoy Breakthrough 24 Global Barrio News 28 Illustrado Profile: Veronica Pedrosa 30 Illustrado Scrapbook 32 Community 70 Bayanihan Corner 71 Onli in da Pilipins: Que Horror! 72 Annie B Chronicles: Nang Maghalo ang Balat sa Tinalupan 74 Faces 78 Classifieds Listing: Filipino & Filipino-Oriented Establishments 80

PLACES

Trippin’: Five Things to Do this Month 56 Globetrotter’s Blog: Sydney, Australia – Boyet Damot 60 My Pinoy Life in: Izol, Slovenia – Gia Rama 62 Trippin’: Beyond the Gravestones 64 Trippin’: Haunted Holiday 68

FASHION

Lost in Limbo 36

64

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8 ILLUMINATI

Wired and Wonderful No, I didn't misread the injunction on this month's theme for this here our wonderful magazine.

But weird as weird goes, just as I was about to join the textual trans-continental party, I got an e-mail from a guy in Virginia, USA. And it was showbiz tsismis about how 37-year-old Ruffa Gutierrez was complaining on a TV program over how 28-year-old matinee idol John Lloyd Cruz couldn't quite make up his mind about their relationship, if they had one at all, to begin with. It seems the young actor had said goodbye, especially now that he's linked with a younger showbiz co-star, but that every now and then he'd still ring up Ruffa — who now felt slighted about that sort of treatment, and demanded that Dear John start getting a backbone.

illustrado Magazine

By Krip Yuson

Hmm. It all extends beyond trivia curiosa, of course. For some reason, I immediately forwarded the entertainment item to a lady friend. She emailed right back: "Hey, why send me this?

Though honestly I did go through it and enjoyed it."

Mwaha! Her alacrity was due to concern that I was losing my macho marbles, perhaps, since previous sends had been on the level of Stephen Hawking's utterly scientific view on the impossibility of a "God" or how the first Japanese man had undertaken a genome test.

illuminati 9

simply a business proposition that could possibly alleviate legal woes, including the matter of lawyers' fees?

Of course everyone has a right to pick up whatever pieces have been shattered by way of public dissemination of fascinating images — thanks to the wired world. But all this still strikes many as being weird, if not exactly wonderful.

So why had I passed on this chica chuva entry — as it's said in showbiz? It was instinctive, I explained. No, nothing to do with the apparent tiff over "commitment" — that big C word.

The wonder of it, I said further, was that I got the item from a thoroughly male friend abroad. As in real guy, not gay.

So why had he sent it — to a batch of males with whom he'd shared elementary and high school years decades ago at a Catholic boys' school? Ah, but that's the wonder of being wired, I guess.

Every day or night many of us trawl the Internet and pick up sundry items of interest on a wide gamut of subjects. And it's become so easy to pass these on, in an effort to keep connected and humming with the rest of the universe.

Then again, many weird, or at least curious, chitchat emerges from the world of showbiz — which often makes us wonder about the pace of evolution in this world.

For instance, the same lady who appreciated the Ruffa-John item also subsequently raised an eyebrow over how the "protagonists" in the Hayden Kho video scandal had all seemed to re-emerge in the public eye, with nary a hint of embarrassment. We got into this topic after I had remarked on how I saw the formidable Vicky Belo being interviewed on latenight cable TV, and she was announcing, rather breathlessly, her clinic's latest treatments and machines — with a radiant smile and her cleavage rather impressively exposed.

Now, I'm no moralist; on the full scale of liberalism, I'd say I'm close to being a libertine. But my remark occasioned a thread where we, or rather she, my correspondent, raised questions on how Maricar can still go full tilt in showbiz, as if nothing had ever happened, and that even Hayden had just released a perfume called ... no, not MariVick or VickMariKat or Hiding or Hidden, but simply "Hayden." Was it a case of cashing in on notoriety, or

Many other lessons do we learn when wired: how Sarah Palin can seem to revive her once dismal image by way of "tea parties" — albeit there are commentators who express disgust, and go on to aver that maybe Paris Hilton can handle image make-overs better, or more interestingly.

But it's not all about entertainers. Everyone may get his/her 15 minutes of fame by being featured in the Net — other than being part of the increasingly growing army of chica consumerists availing themselves of Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and the like. To stay wired certainly appears to open portals to a wide, wonderful world — much of it kinda weird, if in a heartwarming or wholesome fashion. Or anything from the ridiculous to the ludicrous.

Checking out the GMANews.tv site recently, I came upon the following items: "Tuna drags scuba diver 300 feet underwater;" "Man nabbed after pot text to Texas police officer;" "Cops: woman drove around with body for months;" and "1,810-pound pumpkin named world's heaviest."

Any of these tidbits can convey the range of man-bites-dog stories that we have grown so amused with. Many are trivial, but for a moment there they hold our fascination — as against the elements of gravitas that make the world work towards better times.

It's like our country's seeming obsession with breaking into the Guinness Book of Records — whether it be for the number of couples gathered at a park on the eve of Valentine's Day for a ‘simul smoochfest;’ the longest roadside stretch of grilling stands lighting up to broil bangus, this in Dagupan city; the longest longganiza or sausage strung up, on the sidewalks of Baguio City; the largest flag unfurled; the most number of runners in a mass marathon; etc.

I guess the dam broke when we landed a page of ignominy in that Book of Records, with the biggest kleptocrat of all time — although that certainly wasn't wonderful. Why, it wasn't even weird. Or was it?

10 FEATURE

Strangely

Pinoy

By Sherry Tenorio

With over 7,000 islands in the Philippine archipelago, it is no surprise that Filipinos have different regional and provincial customs and traditions. Yet, there are characteristics which have transcended into the general way of life, giving rise to certain familiar traits which are recognizable as distinctly Filipino. In other words, we have signature imprints in various forms which making us stand out – and some of them, although considered as ordinary behavior within our norms, are by other accounts, deemed as bizarre.

Read on as we recount a few of odd Pinoy antics, and try to assess if such things really makes us peculiar.

On food and dining Filipinos eat rice all the time. Foreigners are often amazed that despite this, you hardly ever see obese Pinoys. Well, they would probably be more surprised had they known that Pinoys actually need to eat three meals a day, plus snacks; otherwise, we would feel poor and malnourished.

Speaking of the weirdest delicacies on planet earth, apart from crickets, chicken feet and innards, Pinoys also eat under-developed duck eggs. The infamous “balut” would make any foreigner cringe and brand us as cannibals. Nevertheless, this delicacy has been used for many years as a high-energy snack, to help people with their intimacy problems.

We drink from plastic bags. Filipinos who would buy Pepsi or Coke from sari-sari stores, normally get their softdrink wonderfully packed in a small clear bag teamed with a plastic straw. Well, this is all for the sake of frugality as the softdrink bottle would cost a “deposit,” so it is better to just take the drink in a plastic bag to go. Given our practicality, we also have been accustomed to having everything in sachets and tetra paks. It’s not surprising to see dishwashing soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, and etc. in these light packs. But wait, even mayonnaise, ketchup, sauces, corned beef, and dinuguan come nicely vacuum packed in these sensible handy packages. Talk about product innovation!

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On moles and hygiene Filipinos are so finicky when it comes to hygiene so bathing once, even twice a day, even during the cold season is a must. But we have been told not to sleep with our hair wet, as it would make us blind, if not crazy.

When it comes to our homes, we have been trained not to sweep floors at night – even if it place is in a mess – because that will supposedly drive out all our fortunes and luck away.

Onto body parts, Pinoys put so much importance on moles.

When someone has a mole on his foot, the person is said to be an adventurer. If the mole is on the face, he/she will be successful in business. When there is mole on the palm of one’s hand, the person

FEATURE 11

is lucky in money. Wherever they are, moles are deemed to signify some kind of essential marks in our beings.

On weddings and special occasions Weddings are probably the most significant occasions when Pinoy eccentricities are in full force. It is at this time when we observe so many strange practices and beliefs. To start with, despite foreign influences and fashion constraints, Pinay brides are not allowed to try on their wedding gowns before the wedding day, otherwise the wedding will not push through.

Pinoys also avoid having siblings marry within the same year, as it is feared to bring misfortune to the whole family. If it happens, there will always be competition between the two couples for life.

Filipinos cannot turn down any offer to sponsor a baptismal, confirmation or wedding. It is supposed to be considered as a blessing, even though there would be twenty others who are also sponsoring. Gift-wise, giving an arinola (chamberpot) as is believed to bring good luck to newlyweds. But, knives and other sharp and pointed objects are said to be a bad choice as these will lead to a broken marriage.

On death Pinoys have thousands of superstitions, quite different from every province, but one thing is for sure, when a dog is howling at night, it means that death is coming to someone close in the family. Filipinos also believe that taking pictures of three people is ominous. The middle person in the photo would be the first one to die.

When visiting a funeral, tears must not be allowed to fall on the dead’s coffin; this will make the dead person’s journey to the next world a difficult one. And after the coffin has been lowered to the grave, all family members should take a handful of soil, spit on it and throw it in the grave. Doing so will not only bury any evil left behind by the deceased, but also lessen the burden of grief on the family as well.

On pregnancy We believe that taking pictures of a pregnant woman will cause an abortion or a difficult delivery. So forget about capturing the moment and sharing it in Facebook, because apparently it is a big no-no for Pinoy traditions. Pregnant women are also not allowed in Filipino funerals. Those who are traditional and religious in the family would go all the way to stop pregnant women from attending funeral.

Filipinos believe in creatures that eat the unborn baby from the pregnant woman’s womb. So, in order to fight them away, we put a rosary and bunch of garlic next to the pregnant woman while she sleeps at night.

Other habits and beliefs When we go out into the forest or a deserted area, we always have to say “tabi-tabi po” to excuse ourselves from supernatural creatures who we believe live in the wilderness. Though we do not see these beings, we still say these words out of politeness and fear.

Pinoys believe in the power of quack doctors in curing the sick.

There are a number of people in the provinces who specialize as faith healers. We see people visiting them in droves, hoping that they really had the power to heal terminally-ill people.

We also believe that when a child has an unexplainable sickness then it must be “usog”, meaning there was someone who had extra interest on the kid. This can be cured by a faith healer using hot water and candles plus some incantations to drive away the bad spirits.

We also come to fortune tellers in order to get a glimpse of our future or of the things that are presently confusing us. We believe that these people are gifted to tell us what lies ahead, and to show us the answers to the questions that are bothering us.

A M M 010 C t a ds 2 t s i al war n i s F edia A a en e M s o Ch ippin l i h P

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46

14 FEATURE

Spirit of the

Trees

By JR Bustamante

Boo! It is that time of year again when the young and old don their scariest costumes to the surprise and delight of friends and onlookers as they walk the streets in the spirit of Halloween.

Witches, vampires, zombies, and ghosts mingle with the cute fairies, superheroes, little bugs and pumpkins . . . just a few of the characters and creatures that come a-knocking for their treats.

In every village, you still have your grumpies and scrooges who turn off their lights, hide behind the curtains, and put up “do not disturb” signs infront of their doors to keep these happy souls away.

So these revellers just look out for spookily-decorated houses they can approach as this signals a welcoming home.

At the end of their journey, a feast of sweets await these trick or treaters who have made the effort to plan and create unique, imaginative garbs that elicit smiles and giggles from homeowners. This once-ayear day of horror attempts to scare the pants off people, who end in a scream of laughter, is a much-awaited event. But behind this fun-filled season is a story that will give you the shivers. Did you ever wonder about the trees that stand as silent witness and what lurks behind them while everybody else is having fun?

Quiet Witness No one has given much thought about trees because they have always been around. Sometimes they cast fearsome shadows at dusk or on a moonlit night which catches people’s attention, but otherwise they are almost invisible. No one really cares. But keep in mind, they are alive and are silent witnesses to everything that happens in the dark

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or when no one is looking. Maybe they are speaking but we just aren’t listening hard enough.

It is said that they are homes not only to birds and crawly creatures but also to ‘beings’ that we can’t see. These entities awaken and come out at night when all the humans are fast asleep.

If this was indeed a fact, can you imagine how many trees exist and how many of these supernatural beings they shelter? And if there was such a population, just like humans, there would be peaceful entities as well as evil entities. The mere thought that they could be silently watching our every move, thus knowing our habits and vulnerabilities is just outright frightening.

Stories of young beautiful children being abducted by strange creatures who live in the trees are rampant in provinces and are also alive in some parts of the Metro. Could there be some truth to these stories?

Anitos, Diwatas and Kapre What do we really know about these gentle, harmless trees? They are God’s creation therefore they live, die and also need nourishment to survive. It also makes sense that they would have spirits that guard them and who get upset when they are destroyed unnecessarily. Are these spirits from heaven or the underworld?

FEATURE 15

Anitos Anitos is a general term for spirits of deceased ancestors and naturespirits which existed in the Philippine’s pre-Hispanic belief system.

Though this belief has not entirely vanished when majority of Filipinos became Christians, it is still part of the belief of indigenous groups and as well as part of folk Catholicism. Native Filipinos still fear and seek guidance and magical protection from these spirits.

Diwatas Diwatas are the guardian spirits of nature, casting blessings on those who show concern for nature or curses upon those who bring harm to the forests and mountains. They are gods and goddesses who resided in large trees such as the acacia or balete and are the object of rituals for crop growth, fortune and health. If not given proper respect, they could also cause illness and misfortune.

Kapre The kapre is a Philippine mythical tree demon described as a tall, hairy, brown male with a beard who smokes tobacco to attract human attention. They dwell in big trees like acacias, mangoes, bamboo, and balete and play pranks on travellers by confusing them and making them lose their way. If you see tree branches rustling even if the wind is not strong or hear loud laughter while witnessing smoke from the top of the tree with no one around, or see big fiery eyes at night in a tree then a kapre is watching you. Abundant fireflies also warn of the existence of a kapre as they are believed to come from the creature’s lit tobacco pipe.

Trees of Horror So be very careful and think twice before you decide to harm or chop a tree down, you never know whose home you are destroying.

These spirits may not be very forgiving. They may be behind the natural calamities that befall us like killer typhoon, floods, drought, landslides, earthquakes and global warming. Even though this can’t be confirmed, the fact remains that destruction of trees are the indirect and direct causes of these natural disasters.

Deforestation is caused by farmers who need to clear land to plant their crops, ranchers who need grazing land for their cattle, and loggers who need to extract timber. Whether it is wood gathering for domestic fuel or bigger development projects such as mines, highways, and dams, the result is the same - the loss of trees in the forests. If deforestation is the way to economic development or a speedy solution to pay back foreign debt, then we are headed to a shrunken and vulnerable resource base - a diminished biodiversity that could lead to loss of food, industrial products and medicines that we need for our own survival. We need to protect our trees for the sake of all life on earth.

with much-needed food, rare medicinal cures, and other products still to be explored and developed. The abundance of life in a forest with all its biodiversity is the greatest resource where all life in the planet depends on for survival.

But forests are vanishing acre by acre day by day and in the process losing valuable resources for us. It will take hundreds of years just to rebuild a forest.

A Ghost of a Future Let’s keep the scarefest only during the Halloween season instead of making it a lifetime experience. When we protect and care for our trees, we protect our source of nourishment, shelter and medical needs. Tree is life, no tree, no life.

Trees are Treats!

Spread the word, be an environmental consumer, support products that sustain the rainforests recycle, donate, teach your children to be energy efficient, join a rainforest protection group. . . are some of the proactive things you can do.

A tree is a treasure for its beauty and what it gives to mankind. It is nature’s celebration of life with its diverse community of flora and fauna that resides and depends on it. With the loss of a forest, there is loss in certain animal and plant species which benefit humankind

Not scared of ghost stories? Well this horror story is real so be very afraid as the earth is headed to being a ghost town filled with rotting corpses sometime in the future if nothing will be done soon.

So Booooo!

16 PINOY PRO Celebrating the Professional Pinoy

Engr. Orandantes ‘Dante’ Delizo Project Manager/Senior Discipline Engineer Tebondin Middle East Ltd. Dubai Engr. Dante Delizo, Project Manager/Senior Discipline Engineer at Tebondin Middle East is the only Filipino Invigilator and British Qualified Chartered Engineer in the UAE. He has a degree in Civil Engineering and graduated Magna Cum Laude at the Holy Angel University, Pampanga. He also attended Master of Structural Engineering at the Asian Institute of Technology in Bangkok Thailand. He holds an unlimited license with the Dubai Municipality, JAFZA and TECOM and is a member of professional organizations Institution of Structural Engineers (UK), UAE Society of Engineers, PICE, ASEP and PCE UAE. As a Professional Structural Engineer and Overseas Filipino (OF) since 1985, he was involved with several prestigious structures in Dubai and other Gulf countries including the Burj Khalifa, Burj al Arab, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, The Twin Towers of Dubai, City Tower Two, New Grand Hyatt Hotel, Jumeirah Beach Residences, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai Tower in Qatar among others.

An active community leader, Engr. Delizo is also the founder of CADD Group UAE, a non-profit organization that helps Filipinos in the country by enhancing their computer skills to further their careers.

He was also the former overall chairman of the Filipino Community (FILCOM) from 2008 to 2009. He and his wife Tess have two daughters – a doctor and an architect.

Arch. Dexter Dionisio Technical Designer Creneau International Middle East Dubai Dexter Jose S. Dionisio is a licensed Architect with more than three years experience in architectural design back in the Philippines and over six years in interior design and fit-out work in the emirates. Based in Dubai, Dexter is currently working at Creneau International, an interior design company known for its reputable projects worldwide, and is involved in restaurants, café and hotel design projects not only in the country, but throughout the Middle East region and Europe. His most recent projects include the Belgian Beer Café in Dubai Intercontinental Hotel at Dubai Festival City and Abu Dhabi, Ibis Hotel in Barsha, Dubai, the Grand Palm Resort and Spa at the Palm Jumeirah, Al Manzil Coffee Shop in Old town, Dubai, as well as the Park Inn Hotel in Brussels and Leuven, Belgium, among many others.

Dexter is an active affiliate member of the United Architects of the Philippines - Dubai Chapter and is a graduate of the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) in Manila. He is also passionate about photography, an avid member of LightForm International Photographers Guild – Dubai since 2008, and now occasionally shoots as a freelance photographer. Dexter and his wife Jenny also take part in church community projects as active constituents of CFF.

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Vincent Subeldia Concept Visual Merchandising Manager Home Center – Landmark Group Dubai Born and raised in Iloilo to entrepreneur parents, Vincent Subeldia earned a degree in Business Management from the University of the Philippines and worked for the Bank of America and UCPB doing personal banking and auto loans, but quit from what was then a progressive career in banking to pursue his passion for creativity. He then joined the Philippine School of Interior Design (PSID) and earned his certificate in Basic and Advanced Interior Design to launch himself into the field that he was meant for. From then, he worked in various freelance commercial projects – including retail stores, restaurants and salons, with notable projects including the Centennial Museum in Clark, Duty Free Philippines, Sportmart and Toy Castle. He then became a Visual Merchandising consultant for Duty Free Philippines’ Fashion Walk handling major international brands like Burberry, Cartier, Salvatore Ferragamo among others.

Vincent moved to Dubai seven years ago and landed a job as Visual Merchandiser for high profile furniture retailer Home Center. He was promoted to UAE Visual Merchandising Manager within a year of joining the company and was instrumental in establishing, organizing and managing the company’s Visual Merchandising Department, as well as creating and delivering training workshops for both management and general staff, essentially elevating the Visual Merchandising function as an integral part of the organization.

He is currently holding the post of Concept Visual Merchandising Manager for Home Center and is handling all territories spanning from the Middle East region to India.

Emerson Delatina Senior Administration Officer IFA Hotels and Resorts Dubai ‘Butch’ to his friends, Emerson Delatina, a Dubai resident for a decade now, has experienced a diverse career path that has given him expertise in various fields. From managing JW Marriott Hotel’s Recreation Center to working as Programs Manager for the United Service Organizations (USO) that serves the United States service members, he has displayed the ability to successfully deliver quality projects and events – which garnered him commendations from USO Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Butch is currently handling Corporate Administration for IFA Hotels and Resorts, a global developer of premium mixed-use hotel and residential resort projects, where his major role involves the development and implementation of the company’s database, document management and workflow system. He is also affiliated with Keenfit Middle East, particularly in content management for its social media sites.

Outside the corporate world, Butch is also active in photography and does portraits, events, corporate, fashion, landscape and architectural images. He has taken images for the American Business Council, American School of Dubai and Terrapinn.

18 PINOY ENTREPRENEUR

Esmeraldo “Esmi” and Emily “Loi” Pangilinan Mindmill Ideation Co. Abu Dhabi - UAE Please describe your business.

Mindmill Ideation Co. is a creative boutique studio. We are a graphic design and photography company providing visual communications and other related services for marketing and advertising use.

and fittings for start up hotels. One unique product we did and still do is styrofoam and paper sculpture for some event. Our photo services incorporate events, press conferences in addition to one-onone shoots.

Why did you establish your own business? Can you tell us when and how you started?

What was your start-up capital and your basic operations set-up?

I think everyone would want to have his own business. The other reason is that I think creativity can flourish more if one has more control in the creative process.

We started in May 2004 as a simple arts and craft shop with photography services. Our initial operation included activities involving workshops for kids, servicing small clientele like some fine dining restaurants and mini-mart chains. We also did mural paintings in the beginning and some art deco concepts for wall decorations

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My start-up capital was AED 150,000 and an additional AED 50,000 operational capital on the first year, working by myself with one assistant. Later on my wife resigned from her work and joined me as the operations manager .We got two more creative artist and three regular freelancers. English and Arabic Copywriting were sourced-out from industry contacts. The other staff were - one multitasking executive assistant, one account executive, one driver cum production coordinator and a photographer trainee.

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In the beginning, we were located adjacent to an artsy concept restaurant in Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi. We moved twice. Now we’re in Ziyani area near the Russian embassy and a branch office is being developed for the new partnership, focusing on large format printing, outdoor and indoor signages.

What obstacles did you encounter?

Our obstacle is the slow process of getting collections. Also companies will tend to reward projects based on ethnic connections.

Unfortunately, there are very few Filipino owned businesses in Abu Dhabi, so sometimes we lose by default because some works were not judged on merit.

Where are you now? How far have you gone? What are the landmarks in your business so far?

We recently signed a partnership with outdoor to establish CONNECT. While the papers are being processed, we started some projects already with a new mall being built in Reem Island and six more projects on the pipeline.

If not for the recession we could have expanded dramatically. At the end of 2007 after three years in operation we recovered our investment. Our billings were a little more than AED1million for that year. We established a wide client base for the past years of sheer hard work. At the start of 2008 we infused more capital, bought new machines and cameras, updated all our software, bought a company car and hired a driver to speed up operations. We were gearing up for substantial growth for the following year, our aim was to double, and if lucky triple, our sales but the economic downturn hit and hampered the plan in a big way.

Through hard work we gained regular clients. Our strategy was to target small and medium size companies that bigger agencies were trying to ignore. Now we are servicing three hotels, a bar and restaurant, high end beauty salon, spa, real estate office, oil and gas companies and one cosmetic clinic. We’re also regularly doing seasonal materials for some government agencies such as ADEC and Abu Dhabi Executive Council along with tactical and special projects for oil companies.

We also have a medium size contracting and cleaning company as a regular client. I’m also a regular consultant to an in-house marketing company of one of the biggest group of companies in Abu Dhabi.

Some embassies and business councils are also giving us special projects. The positive thing is that were still standing without any external help, we didn’t downsize we’re venturing in new avenues. I am very optimistic about the future.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of being an entrepreneur?

The advantage is also the disadvantage of being an entrepreneur the risk is bigger as compared to being a safe salaried employee but the financial reward is also bigger if you succeed. The satisfaction of being able to provide jobs to others and train people who are eager to succeed, is very rewarding.

Would you encourage other Pinoys to go into business? What is your advice to budding Pinoy entrepreneurs?

Definitely I would recommend, the Filipinos can only have a real economic improvement if some, or all of us are thinking about business more than just being employed.

Kasi halos lahat ng Pilipino ang iniisip magkaroon ng magandang sweldo sa Pilipinas o makapag trabaho sa abroad. This mentality will not get us out of our situation. Dapat para tayong intsik puro negosyo ang nasa isip kahit saan mapunta.

Marami sa Pilipino ang dahilan kung bakit di sila nag iisip ng negosyo ay wala daw capital, di totoo yan. The capital that we have is time, creativity flexibility and hardwork. I was an ordinary employee myself but I used my time wisely and managed my finances, enabling me to accumulate a certain amount for my starting capital.

Also, another way is working together with other business minded individuals for joint business activities with combined resources, but in order to do this Filipinos need to mature a lot. They should act as genuine business people rather than a greedy scam artist wanting to get money quickly by cheating a partner or creating a misleading shady deal. Patience is the key to get profit from real business activities even if it is slow in the beginning.

In a service oriented business, patience, perseverance, understanding cultural barriers and communication skills are very important especially here in the UAE. Lastly, never take a loan. If you’re starting a business here in the UAE avoid starting it with a loan, start it with your time and talent.

For more info mindmill.auh@gmail.com or call 050-1243582.

20 kabuhayan EnTREPREnEuRShIP

Franchising a salon business

By Bernadette Reyes

Celestino “Les” Reyes had waited tables, filled up gas tanks, peddled vegetables and sold water filters, insurance and real estate. Today, Les is still in the business of selling, only this time, he is selling the Reyes Haircutters brand, mentoring successful entrepreneurs and providing livelihood to Filipinos.

Les Reyes is the man behind the successful Reyes Haircutters chain of salons in the Philippines. His first exposure to the salon business was through his Mama Ada’s Ada Beauty Salon in the 1960s. In 2000 Les decided to open his own salon. He hired 20 people, and with only PHP10,000 managed to put up Xristian Reyes Salon. Its concept was to establish a “Filipino Family Salon” which aims to provide quality salon services to each member of the household at the most affordable price. In January 2001, Les renamed the salon to Reyes Haircutters which reinforced the concept of a “Filipino Family Salon.” The business turned out to be a huge success that shortly after a few years of successful operations he decided to open Reyes Haircutters for franchise.

minimized because we already know how to address them. A salon business which started from scratch often closes shop after six months because they lack the necessary skills and experience in running the business,” says Les, Chairman and CEO of Reyes Hair Company International, Inc.

Why franchise

Depending on how well the franchisee adopts the existing business model of the franchisor and his ability to run the business, investment may be recovered in one to two years. “If you put PHP1 million in the bank that will only earn around five percent per year but if you invest that amount in a salon, you can earn up to as much as half of that investment every month,” says Les.

Franchising is defined as the practice of replicating the successful business model of an existing business. The franchisor shares his expertise in running the business including marketing, advertising, management and accounting and even reveals trade secrets that are not readily accessible to start-up companies. “The errors are

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A franchise business has higher chances of success if the business that is being franchised has a solid track record of profitability and runs on a model that is easy to duplicate such as salon business. “This is not a fad business rather it is a need business. Everybody gets a haircut once in a while regardless of age, sex or social status that is why this has the potential to become a good business,” says Les.

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Why choose this particular franchise Reyes Haircutters has been in the business for more than a decade.

It has become an establish brand name in the country which has created a solid followings owing to its quality services and high value for money. A Reyes Haircutters branch in Tomas Morato, Quezon City for example is located in a vicinity where 20 other salons operate within a 500 meter radius yet it thrives not just because a salon is a lucrative business, but also because of its high-end quality service at very affordable prices which bring customers at its doorsteps.

“Where else can you get a haircut for PHP49.99 while enjoying all the amenities as you would in a high-end salon?” says Les.

How to franchise A Reyes Haircutters Salon franchise will require an investment of PHP1.5 to PHP2 million depending on the size of operation and location of the business. This amount covers the expenses for site construction, equipment and fixtures, one month of supplies and already includes the franchise fee good for five years.

The franchise fee entitles the franchisee to use the brand, access to tried-and-tested system of operations including salon management and customer service, use of salon design and free staff training and re-training for five years at the Reyes International School of Cosmetology. RHC Supply Center will provide all the equipment and supplies to facilitate procurement.

Interested franchisees must submit a letter of intent to RHC Office.

It should mention the address and contact details of the applicant together with a vicinity map of the proposed location for the salon.

Testament to its success is how Reyes Haircutters from a single salon a decade ago has expanded to 200 branches nationwide. RHC is also open to franchise Reyes Haircutters overseas. Today Reyes Haircutters has presence in London and will soon open in Doha Qatar and the United States.

Reyes Haircutters is a business that takes care not only of its customers but looks after its staff as well. RHC houses it own training center, Reyes International School of Cosmetology (RISC) which provides the highest possible quality education to hairdressers and beauticians through local and international training. “At RHC, we ask our staff to undergo quarterly training. Some are even sent abroad to attend seminars. You need to invest in training your people because at the end of the day the money you spend will come back ten-folds because they learn new skills and techniques which they bring back to the salon,” says Les. As a way of giving back to his devoted staff, Les treats them to dinners and organizeS monthly raffles.

Les openly shares his poignant childhood – abandoned by his father at four, destitute, he had to stop attending school – yet he managed to rise to the top. Even at the zenith of success, he never forgets to pay forward whatever grace he has received. “If you know of anyone who is destitute and jobless yet driven to earn a decent living, they can come to us, train under RISC and upon completion of the training they automatically get a job,” he says.

While the salon business may be as ubiquitous as the balot is in the Philippines, there will always be a perfect new location for another salon and a lot of job opportunities waiting to be filled. “There are more than 90 million Filipinos. That’s a lot of hair to be cut,” says Les.

22 kabuhayan money

Saving through

Christmas and beyond

By Francisco J. Colayco

I find it difficult not to be a “kill-Joy” in terms of spending for Christmas. There are many ways of sharing which should be the whole concept of Christmas cheer. It does not have to mean spending more than normal. Just because you have a 13th month pay does not give you license to spend it. In other countries, there is no such thing as a 13th month pay. Perhaps, if there was no 13th month pay, your employer would give you a higher regular month pay.

Therefore, consider your 13th month pay as just part of your regular salary that is given to you at the end of the year.

Don’t we really want to share all throughout the year? I do not think we should spend extraordinary amounts at any time of the year unless we have fulfilled our obligation to save. Yes, it is an obligation to save just as it is an obligation to share. But how can you share what you do not have? You can give everything away as sharing but after that, you can no longer share because you have nothing to share. If you have the capability to earn and to grow your wealth, isn’t it better for you to do that so that your sharing will not end?

You ask me if the obligation to save will ever end? Just like in the obligation to share, the answer is NO; it will never end. Learn from Arkad, the “Richest man in Babylon.” Centuries ago, he lived his life according to the fundamental law of personal finance…. “Part of all you earn, is yours to keep.”

Remember savings does not mean deprivation. It only means putting aside a certain amount regularly for future use. Each person has a different requirement for savings. Even the very rich automatically save by properly investing the earnings of their existing investments.

In fact, the sad fact is that the very rich who do not save and properly invest eventually lose much of their riches.

There are also other parameters to consider when saving. This is why I always insist that you have your Personal Statement of Assets and Liabilities (SAL) and your Personal Financial Plan. This will include your Personal Income and Expense Statement (PIES). With your plan, you will know exactly how much you need to save for each of your goals. Your goals could be short term or long term. What is important is that you know what your goal is, how much you need and how you will get there. Put all of these in writing. This is most

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important for your success.

If you insist on spending anyway to buy and live your luxuries, be sure you do so, only if you use money earned from your savings and investment. Remember that you have to make up for that amount to reach the goals that you have set up in your Personal Financial Plan.

This could happen if you will save more than usual in the coming months or earn a higher rate of return in your investment.

You may also want to explore earning additional income from sidelines specifically for the purpose of Christmas spending. Many do this and this is why there is a proliferation of bazaars during the season.

Without investment and/or additional income, you could use the money budgeted for your regular expenses. No cheating here…it entails sacrifice and makes your gift even more valuable. Ideally, you should have already included Christmas gifts in your monthly budget throughout the year. Thus, you could have done your Christmas shopping all year round, taking advantage of the bigger and special sales for the purpose. Note, however, that come Christmas time, the goods presented by merchants are usually new and sometimes, the things you bought on sale no longer look as nice as they did when you thought of the recipient.

Whatever your decision, act decisively with determination and discipline. Think everything through carefully while reviewing your written plans. If you did not write it, how can you review it?

Join our seminars in Manila.

Check out www.colaycofoundation.com.

24 SUCCESSFUL PINOY SPIRITUALITY

A Pinoy

Breakthrough

By Bo Sanchez

We Filipinos have weird dreams – like dreaming the American Dream – you know, a life of abundance in the land of milk and honey. But there’s a more wonderful dream and it happened to me. I call it a breakthrough.

Have you ever been denied a visa? If not, believe me, you don’t want to experience it. I’ve been denied a visa. Twice. From the United States Embassy no less. Look into my heart and you’ll find two ugly scars.

I remember my first attempt. I was still in my teens. When I woke up, I was already wet with nervous sweat. It didn’t help that when I arrived in the U.S. Embassy, I saw a humongous crowd of hopeful Pinoys outside the gates of American Heaven. They were standing in long lines, all of them begging for a visa. I felt their collective fear. It was nerve-wracking.

Am I human?

Each step closer to the interviewer made my stomach churn. I could actually hear the loud beating of my chest and wondered if everyone else heard it. Dub-dub. Dub-dub. Dub-dub. Finally, it was my turn. The consul, a thirtyish guy with square spectacles, was all business. He looked at my passport. I bet he already made up his mind right there, but the interview had to go on. He asked, “So why do you want to go to the U.S.?”I said, “I’m a preacher and a Catholic convention is inviting me to give a talk.”

That was when I realized— my gosh! Who in the world would

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believe me? A pimple-faced, scarecrow-looking teenager being invited to speak in a religious convention?

The man abruptly left his cubicle. I imagined he was laughing out loud and rolling on the floor. When he came back, he said matterof-factly, “I’m sorry, Mr. Sanchez, I can’t possibly give you a visa.”

Again, I imagined him say instead, “I’m sorry, Mr. Sanchez, you’re so totally unworthy of stepping on the beautiful shores of America because we only accept human beings.”

Another rejection The second time I applied, the interviewer was an American lady.

She was very kind to me. Instead of saying, “I’m sorry, I can’t possibly give you a visa,” she said, “I’m so very sorry, I can’t possibly give you a visa.” But it still broke my heart.

By the third time I applied, I thought I was already an expert in the body language of diplomats. I got ready for another denial. Here were the signs I was looking for: If the consul has an emotionless zombie look on his face, I’d get denied. If he shakes his head… Denied. If he raises an eyebrow… Denied. If he yawns… Denied. If he looks at his watch… Denied. If he inhales oxygen… Denied. If he exists in front of me… Denied.

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I’m a Human Being After All So I was so shocked when he approved my visa. Just like that.

Without asking me a question, the guy said, “Have a nice trip.”

“Excuse me?” I asked. He smiled and repeated himself, “Have a nice trip.” “Where am I going?” I asked. But I finally got it. I almost ran out of the embassy jumping up and down.Hey, I’m a human being after all!

Life with a Visa When I still didn’t have a visa, I remember visiting my neighbor who had a potted plant from the U.S. I put my foot in it and announced, “Hey guys, I’ve finally stepped on U.S. soil!” When I didn’t have a visa, I couldn’t step on an inch of U.S. territory. But because I got the visa, I’ve now preached in 34 cities in North America.

Friends, there’s something better than a U.S. visa. There’s a visa to the land of abundance and love and victory that God wants you to have. I should know. I’m experiencing it right now.

It’s Harvest Time for Me People ask me, “Bo, how can you be so blessed?” They point to my loving family. They point to my fantastic job that blesses the world. They point to my financial blessings from my small businesses. They point to my incredible circle of friends. They point to my irresistible good looks. (Note:“They” consist of my mother and my wife.) Yes, I’m living a dream life. Sometimes, I have to pinch myself. Is this really happening?

Let me tell you a curious thing that started happening when I hit 40. In 2006, I was named Ten Outstanding Young Men, awarded by the President in Malacañang Palace no less. In 2007, I was given the Serviam Award, the highest award of the Catholic Mass Media Awards by none other than Cardinal Rosales himself. Also in 2007, another fantastic recognition: The Golden Gavel Award from Toastmasters International—the highest award given to non-Toastmasters-- for public speaking.

Do you know why I’m so blessed? Here’s my theory: there are two seasons in this universe - the Planting Season and the Harvest Season. For 40 years, I was in the Planting Season. Today, I’m in the Harvest Season of my life.

It’s that simple. For years, I’ve planted and planted…and planted! Crossing the line between planting and harvesting was like receiving a visa to a land of abundance and ease. This is what happened: I’ve experienced a breakthrough.

Let me describe these two seasons as simply as I can. I cannot think of a clearer explanation as this: In the Planting Season, I chased after blessings. In the Harvest Season, blessings are chasing after me.

How to get to Harvest There really are only two Powerful Steps.

Step 1 - Even if you see no results, keep planting Many are getting tired of doing good, of doing the right thing.

Why? Because you don’t see the results. So you want to give up.

Don’t! Or there will be no Harvest.

Perhaps you’ve been applying for a job, but the right job has not been coming. Never mind. Keep applying anyway.

Perhaps you’ve been reaching out to your son, but he’s still distant as ever. Never mind. Keep reaching out to your son anyway.

Perhaps you’ve been working on your finances, but you’re still buried in debt. Never mind. Keep working on your finances anyway.

Perhaps you’ve been working on your marriage but the relationship is still strained. Never mind. Keep working on your marriage anyway. A wife said to her husband, “I’m so tired of our fighting. I can’t take it anymore. I’m leaving the house!” And the husband said, “Me too! I can’t take it anymore as well. I don’t want to stay in this house either. I’m coming with you.” That husband wasn’t about to give up!

(Note: I’m not talking about abuse in marriage. These are the exceptions where it may be better for a husband and wife to live apart. In this article, I’m talking about the regular problems that slowly destroy marriages if we don’t work at our relationship.)

Some of us think if we plant, we’ll harvest. That’s not how this universe works. You’ll need to plant and plant and plant…and then you’ll harvest. My friend, don’t give up. Believe that harvest is coming! Keep Showing Up! Friend, if you want to succeed in life, you need to show up.

In the U.S. embassy, I needed to show up for my interview. And when I got denied, I just applied again. When life denies you of what you dream for, here’s the key: show up again. What if I got so depressed and I never tried again? I would never have been able to preach in 34 cities in North America.

Remember that in the Planting Season, not all your seeds will grow. Many of your seeds won’t reach the Harvest Season. Some of your seeds will die.

I remember one area of my life where I had to plant again and again, almost giving up because it seemed as though nothing was happening…

Planting Seeds of Love in my Emotions For almost 30 years, I was run by my fears. Each morning, I would wake up with a profound sense of sadness. For many years, I didn’t know why I felt so sickeningly sad. Many years later, I was able to define it: it was shame. I had a shame-based personality, rooted in my molestation as a child and teen years. (I talk about this painful part of my life in my two books, Your Past Does Not Define Your Future and 7 Secrets to Real Freedom.) I was totally ashamed of who I was. I was ashamed that I existed in the world.

For years, I tried to please everyone. Because if someone didn’t like me, I would panic. I would die within. I was desperate for people to love me. But daily, I planted seeds of love in my heart. I received God’s love. I loved myself aggressively. I allowed others to love me. There were days when I was okay. But there were more days when my old fears would grip me again. There were days when I

26 SUCCESSFUL PINOY SPIRITUALITY

wanted to give up. I felt it was all a waste—that I would never get healed.

And then one day—I just noticed it—my fears were lessening; their intensity weakening. My shame reared its ugly head less frequently. I knew a miracle was happening. I knew love was conquering my soul, edging fear out of my life. Today, as I write this piece, my life has totally changed. Harvest has come!

I now profoundly love myself. I’m no longer ashamed of myself. I cannot begin to describe to you the change in my inner life. It’s like night changed to day—and I’m a brand new person inside.

But there’s a second step to Harvest Season…

Step 2 - Plant in the right environment The Law of the Harvest says, what you plant, you harvest. But hidden in this Law is the need to plant your seeds in the right environmental conditions: good sunlight and abundant water. If I plant the right seeds in the wrong environment, there’ll still be no harvest. What is the right environment? Faith.

You need to plant your seeds with blessing mindset. Faith is the water and sunlight of your seeds. What is a blessing mindset? That no matter what happens, you expect to be blessed. That you expect good things to happen to you. I know people who work on their finances—but don’t expect to be truly rich. I know people who work on their family relationships—but don’t expect that they’ll ever get better. I know people who work on their health—but don’t expect healing. If you want to be blessed you have to expect to be blessed. You have to expect the harvest. Let me give you an example.

Develop Your Wealth Mindset In one of my blogs, I said that if you want to harvest more money, you have to plant value. Why? Because money is simply a symbol of value. But why was it that for the first 30 years of my life, I was poor, even when I was planting the right seeds? When I started serving God at age 13, preaching almost daily and leading nonprofit organizations, I was already planting value into my life and enormous value in others—by helping countless of people. I planted what I believe are the three seeds of wealth—character (integrity), competence (gifting), and connections (relationships).

So why no harvest? I didn’t have the right blessing mindset to make the seeds grow. In this case, I lacked a wealth mindset to make the seeds of money grow. I didn’t want to become rich. I didn’t expect to be blessed. It took years to get rid of my scarcity mentality. It came from - wrong beliefs about myself (I identified myself with poverty), wrong beliefs about God (I thought He wanted me to be poor) and wrong beliefs about money (I believed it was the tool of the devil). I remained poor because I didn’t want the harvest.

I was already giving so much value to people, all I had to do was ask and I’d get paid handsomely. But I didn’t want to be paid. So I remained poor. When I hit 30 years old, I began to open myself to

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harvest. I began to grow a wealth mindset. And I began to grow my wealth too.

I remember reading all the books I could get on money and searching for all the mentors I could find. I kept learning until everything made sense. I also got into eight small businesses—and failed in every single one of them. I lost tons of money. (I didn’t have much money then, so “tons” is a relative term.) It was devastating. Depressing! But I never gave up.

And then breakthrough came. Today, money flows to me like a river. (Compared to my multimillionaire mentors, my river is more like a trickle from a leaking faucet. But it sure looks good to me!) I don’t look for business opportunities; business opportunities come to me. And the right people, the right resources, and the right wisdom just come to me.

Yes, harvest has come. And greater harvests are coming because I keep planting.

Even at Harvest, Keep Planting Some of you are enjoying your Harvest Season in various areas of your life. Don’t stop planting. Don’t forget to take some of the seeds that you harvest and plant them. If you do this, greater Harvest Seasons will come.

28 GLOBAL BARRIO

Wall Street Journal names The Farm as one of region’s best If you have read our last month’s review of The Farm, then it would not surprise you that The Wall Street Journal has recently ranked this premier health and wellness resort as one of the region’s finest destination for its detox retreats and living foods cuisine.

This acclaimed leading business news publication in Asia cites The Farm as a pioneer in raw and vegan cuisine in Asia and its organic plantation that produces much its vegan food and spa ingredients. It also commended The Farm for its detoxification programs and cleansing therapies.

Having won 17 international awards since 2004, The Farm has served as an inspiration to the Philippine tourism industry and benchmark for local spas in the country. Recent awards include AsiaSpa Award for Best Cuisine of the Year in 2009. That same year, CNN Traveller showcased the resort as one of the world’s best green places to stay in CNN Traveller’s list of Six Best Environmentally Friendly Hotels in the world.

Pinoy fashion designer bags major prizes at prestigious competition in Japan In the recently concluded 48th Japan Fashion Design Contest in Tokyo, three major prizes were won by Jerome Allen Lorico. The Filipino fashion designers’s victory marked the first time that a foreigner won in the prestigious competition after 47 years.

Lorico won the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award (Grand Prize) for his all-black entry, titled “Ink and Water.” He also won two special corporate awards from the Japan Cotton Industry Association and Onward, one of the biggest apparel companies in Japan.

Lorico’s entry used a unique textile he helped conceptualize which was made from conventional and

Philippine fabrics such as cotton and piña. His entry took inspiration from the theme of this year’s contest, “Steer for the Future 2020 Autumn/Winter.”

He was among the 50 finalists chosen from a field of around 2,500 entries from around the world, after a rigorous and stringent screening process. Lorico was joined by two other finalists from the Philippines, Nicole Michael P. Mori and Marian V. Andrada.

Organized by the Dressmaker Fashion Educational Promotion Committee and Sugino Gakuen (Sugino Fashion College), the contest’s board of judges for this year was headed by noted Japanese fashion maven Hanae Mori, SOMARTA fashion designer Tamae Hirokawa, Boutique-sha CEO Akira Naito, Senken Chief Editor Kosuke Nagamatsu, and INFAS Publication, WWD Japan Chief Editor Kazuyuki Yamamuro.

Filipino actor and soap opera are handpicked for International Emmy’s

Lucero’s performance for “Dahil May Isang Ikaw” as Alfred “Red” Ramirez merited a nomination under the Best Performance by an Actor category. On the other hand, the TV series, top billed by Jericho Rosales and Kristine Hermosa, was nominated under the Telenovela category.

Sid Lucero and ABS-CBN’s television series, “Dahil May Isang Ikaw,” were named official nominees at the 38th International Emmy Awards. The list of nominees were recently released by the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (IATAS). The winners will be announced at a black-tie ceremony on November 22 at the Hilton Hotel, New York.

Lucero, now one of the lead stars of ABS-CBN’s afternoon series “Alyna,” is joined in the category by Bob Hoskins (United Kingdom), Sebastian Koch (Germany), and Leonardo Sbaraglia (Argentina).

Other nominees under the Telenovela category are “Ciega a Citas (Argentina)” and “My Love (Portugal).”

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Fil-Am pitches the team’s win in US Baseball World Series San Francisco ace Tim Lincecum pitched the Giants to victory in Game 1 of the World Series of America’s pastime, Major League Baseball, against the Texas Rangers 11-7. Lincecum, in his fourth year with the Giants made history, as the first pitcher of Filipino heritage to play and win in America’s biggest baseball league.

Lincecum is also one of America’s top baseball pitchers having won the National League Cy Young Award for two consecutive years, to become the first repeat winner since Randy Johnson.

The Filipino-American wiry right-hander nicknamed “The Freak” for his giant stride, needed only 15 victories to earn the award—the fewest for a Cy Young starter over a non-shortened season.

In 2009, Lincecum led the NL with 261 strikeouts and tied for the league lead with four complete games and two shutouts. In four regular seasons, Lincecum has posted a 56-27 record with 907 strikeouts, a 3.04 ERA and five shutouts.

He has led the National League in strikeouts the last three years.

Palawan resort receives Sustainable Hotel Award in Hong Kong At the recent 21st Annual Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) in Hong Kong, El Nido Resorts won the Sustainable Hotel Award in the Sustainable Destination category.

El Nido Resorts was awarded for its various programs covering marine and terrestrial ecosystem preservation and protection. Projects include marine turtle conservation, coastal and underwater cleanups, installation and maintenance of and mooring buoys. El Nido Resorts was hailed for embracing nature-based guest activities and sustainable

menus, and for providing environment education programs for staff and guests and employment opportunities for the local community.

The HICAP, attended by leading industry professionals, is Asia’s biggest and longest running hotel investment conference. The Sustainable Hotel Awards were launched in 2007 to recognize hotels in the Asia Pacific region demonstrating exemplary sustainable practices and to inspire industry wide commitment to sustainable development and operations.

The HICAP Sustainable Hotel Award adds to the global recognition of El Nido Resorts’ green practices and commitment to responsible tourism.

Dutch-Pinoy kid becomes Holland’s rising singing star Dutch-Pinoy kid Kim Regasa continues to shine despite not making it as the top choice for Holland’s Got Talent. Regasa was among the 9 finalists from the 4,000 who auditioned in the British reality talent-search franchise owned by Simon Cowell. During his whole stay in the said show, Regasa had easily become a crowd favorite.

At the audition, the very popular Dutch judge Gordon praised Regasa and suggested he sounded like the young Michael Jackson. And, after the semi-finals when he sang “Who’s Loving You” by the Jackson Five, Regasa was earned the moniker “mini Michael Jackson” of Holland.

Even if he did not win, Regasa is very happy with what he has achieved, and also because he was able to showcase his Pinoy talent to the Dutch viewers.

30 ILLUSTRADO PROFILE

Veronica Pedrosa

In the Right Place at the Right Time

By Aby Yap

She has always been where the news is. So, it comes as a surprise that being a broadcast journalist was not the be-all and end-all of dreams for Veronica Pedrosa, Al Jazeera International’s lead anchor in their Kuala Lumpur news broadcast center.

She whose résumé is an enviable listing of the most reputable broadcast networks around the globe: CNN International, BBC World Television, BBC World Service Radio, and ABS-CBN. She whose typical day at work includes interviewing the world’s movers and shakers — Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, Australian Prime Minister John Howard, New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark, Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, East Timor Foreign Minister Jose Ramos Horta and President Xanana Gusmao, Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf, and Philippine Presidents Corazon Aquino and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo — as well as covering events that shape the world’s socio-political landscape, from the Bali bombings and the infamous SARS to the Beijing Olympics and Barack Obama’s celebrated win.

But Veronica discloses that at one point, she considered the thought of becoming a social worker. And though her mother, print journalist Carmen Navarro-Pedrosa, did inspire her about “the power of telling a story,” it was only when she came back to the Philippines that she began writing her own story as a broadcast journalist.

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The Reluctant Reporter “I was lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time,” Veronica narrates of how she embarked on this career. “I was really only going to spend a year in Manila when I first moved there in 1990 and didn’t have any plans to start a career in journalism that’s now in its 20th year!”

Initially, she was a writer at ABS-CBN. Then, she became a writerproducer. The trouble, however, arose when she was asked to do a live report.

Since her family moved to the United Kingdom when she was five, Veronica naturally developed a thick British accent, which has actually become her trademark to this day. For many Filipinos, she is the Pinay broadcaster with the lovely British accent.

Back then, though, it was entirely different. “Everyone laughed at my accent and wondered what on earth the management was thinking to put someone with my ridiculous (for the Philippines) accent on air,” recalls Veronica. “To be honest, I tried to get out of it! I double-

ILLUSTRADO PROFILE 31

But how is it for an Asian, and a woman at that, to keep up with such a fast-paced and challenging realm such as global broadcast journalism?

“Being an Asian woman has definitely made a difference, both positive and negative. CNN, BBC, and Al Jazeera English strive for diversity in their on-air staff and it’s important that they do,” Veronica answers readily. “But I’ve had moments off camera when I wonder whether I’d get quite the same treatment if I looked different and people approached me with a different set of expectations.”

Hence, a need for Asian women to be “in the public eye, doing highprofile serious work and succeeding to break down any stereotypes that might be out there,” she emphasizes.

-checked with the news director at the time and complained about it.”

Nothing came out of her objection. But Veronica says it was ABSCBN that gave her “a fantastic grounding in journalism” and “the chance to visit CNN Atlanta on a programme for international professionals,” eventually leading her to explore opportunities at both CNN and BBC. In 2004, she was named as Best News Anchor by the Asian Television Awards.

A Different Perspective Of course, the job entails much more than glamour or glory, as evidenced by what Veronica considers her most unforgettable coverage that occurred in beautiful Myanmar. It was a year after the Nargis Cyclone disaster and they were supposed to do a story on the recovery effort.

“We met a family in the middle of a tragedy. Their two-month old baby had just died and nobody knew what to do, so I did CPR to try to save her. I chose not to put that part in our report, but it was personally a difficult moment,” she recounts. “The authorities were very angry that I put the baby in the report at all and tried to stop us from leaving the country. But anyone would agree with the point of the report; that the people need more help from their own government and through foreign aid.”

With Al Jazeera, Veronica is all excited about the way they deliver the news — “a 360-degree view of the world, with a specifically developing world agenda” — mainly because she can relate. She is, after all, a Filipina brought up in the United Kingdom.

Sharing her P.I.E. That is not to say, though, that everything would be easy — even if she thinks that Filipinos in general are already globally competitive.

“I’ve put a lot of effort and time into making sure that I build on my knowledge and understanding of international news and learn from my mistakes,” Veronica describes how she has persistently improved on her craft.

To anyone who is out to follow her footsteps, she has a slice of P.I.E. to share: Performance, Image, and Exposure. She explains, “It’s not just about how well you do your job, but what people think of you and making the most of when people see you.”

And while she also has husband award-winning CNN cameraman Mark Phillips and their two children to attend to, she is quick to disprove that cliché question about balancing work and family.

“The stark truth is that if you work full-time and you’re ambitious, it comes first,” she admits. “I’m in a demanding profession and you really can’t take your eye off the ball and still keep up.”

But that does not mean that she is not there for the family. It is rather a case, Veronica argues, of arranging matters if they need her as well as raising very self-motivated and independent children. “My work has been challenging and fulfilling enough that I’ve wanted to continue with it being a big priority,” she underscores.

Indeed, her story is far from over. For as long as there is news, there is Veronica Pedrosa.

32 ILLUSTRADO SCRAPBOOK A platform for budding Filipino creative talent

Joe Chua Agdeppa Originally from Palawan, Philippines, Joe Chua Agdeppa works as an IT Manager in Dubai. Photography is his passion and one true love. In his pursuit to capture the colorful hues and touching emotions of people and places, he’s visited different cities from Asia, Africa, Middle East and Europe. Each step he makes is a revelation of the innate talent and meticulous eye for detail of a great travel photographer. He joined DubaiSuperstar on 2005 and finished Basic Photography class from Lightform in 2007. This year, he attended Joe Macnally’s workshop to enhance his skills in using light techniques. Joe became a pro bono lecturer during the “Introduction to Photography” workshop held in Dubai in May 2010. His works have been exhibited in Gulf Images Show 2009, and published in several magazines and newspapers in the Philippines, UAE as well as the United Kingdom.

He has also received praises from National Geographic Photographer Peter K. Burian. Currently, he has an impressive client portfolio which includes individuals and corporate companies of different nationalities.

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A platform for budding Filipino creative talent

ILLUSTRADO SCRAPBOOK 33

Gil Purcil

Miami-based Gil Purcil was born and raised in Pampanga by Bicolano parents. He used to teach Computer Programming and Business Systems at Systems Technology Institute (STI) for almost 10 years, and also worked as a Network Systems Administrator and Software Developer at Axios Group Inc., a software and network Integration firm based in Dallas Texas.

Photography is a serious hobby for Gil who loves shooting beautiful subjects - from objects, to landscapes, to still life to people. Reading online books, attending photography seminars and learning from seasoned professionals like Lito Sy, as well endless support from his fiancé and family, have inspired Gil to excel in this art. His works have been published on the cover and featured in the premiere edition of Discovering Arts and Heritage, a magazine for Filipinos in the state of Florida.

Some of his works have also been published in other print and online magazines like Nutek Speed, Curve House and South Florida Party Planner Magazine, to name a few.

34 ADVERTORIAL

Giordano’s 2010 Winter Collection

Pure Gold’s New Diamond Ring

Giordano’s 2010 Winter Collection, now available in stores across the country, features stylish urban outfits that bring a touch of warmth and comfort to every wardrobe as the cooler season approaches.

Pure Gold Jewellers, the award winning jewelry retailer, has launched two new designs of diamond ring under the Solitaire collection. Crafted in yellow and white gold, the rings are accented with 25 cents diamond solitaire as center stone and 25 cents diamond side stones, for a total weight of 50 cents diamonds. The rings come in two different designs, a prong setting and channel setting and can be purchased for AED1,799 only.

The leading retailer’s new winter set includes tees, long-sleeved tees, zipup hoodies, sweaters, jackets, blazers, unisex cardigans, and long and short-sleeved polos. Designed with mix-and-match flexibility in mind, the new collection boasts a contemporary, edgy look and is available in a palette of seasonal shades and classic neutrals.

Ishwar Chugani, Executive Director, Giordano ME, comments: “Giordano is a brand known for transforming wardrobe basics into fashion statements. Our 2010 Winter Collection really delivers when it comes to our core values of creating clothes of the highest quality at attractive and affordable prices.”

The highlight of this season’s collection is Giordano’s four-in-one jacket.

Made of cotton and flannel, with inner and outer jackets that can be worn together or alone, it provides ease of movement and wearability in a no-nonsense style. With multi-layered options, it is flexible enough to take on whatever weather the season throws at it – from the warmest autumn day through to the coolest winter evening.

Winter 2010 at Splash Winter 2010 sees Splash deliver on its ‘Eye on Design’ philosophy through five distinctive themes. Women’s themes are Military/Biker and Country Club Ski while the Men’s themes are Urban Gangster, Men at Arms and Nu-Ski. The ‘Military/Biker’ collection is all about historical references and traditional military garb from different eras. Aviator jackets and military inspired coats contrasted with layered lace skirts, georgette dresses with sturdy tweed blazers and coats with fur detailing, matched with biker jackets, give the line an edgy yet feminine look. ‘Country Club Ski’ has several diverse looks from equestrian to the 60’s preppy schoolgirl.

Trouser shapes are redefined, with high-waisted leg-elongating flared silhouettes. The sheath dress, the trench, skinny fit-and-flare pea coats with shirt dresses, tailored shorts, bow-tied blouses are key highlights.

The ‘Urban Gangster’ line for men draws inspiration from the ‘The Godfather’ with heavy sweaters in cable knits and long trench coats with fastenings making the ultimate statements. ‘Nu Ski’ on the other hand, displays an adventurous spirit with influences from expeditions and mountaineering. Denim shirts, long-structured trench coats, khaki chinos and aviator bomber jackets are key pieces from the ‘Men at Arms’ line with air-force graphics and army inspired details.

“In our effort to continuously cater to the exquisite taste of our diamond jewelry customers, we are introducing two new elegant yet classic ring designs in our solitaire collection. The rings are interpreted in contemporary style and setting,” said Karim F. Merchant, CEO and Managing Director of Pure Gold Jewellers.

Pure Gold Jewellers’ Solitaire collection is known for its brilliance and reflects power, personality and individuality. All pieces are certified by the International Diamond Laboratories (IDL) which provides the diamond trade and jewelry retailers with quality reports of polished diamonds.

36 FASHION

FASHION 37

LOST in LIMBO Lose yourself in the wispy apparition of softly colored translucent silk, chiffons and soft tulle, drifting and floating, suspended in time…

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EROS GOZE POST PROCESSING BY TOM BOLIVAR HAIR AND MAKE-UP BY JOJO PADUA MODELS: ANGELIA JADE BENJAMIN AND ZOE PFLIEGER

ON ANGELIA: HIGH NECK POWDER BLUE FLOWY DRESS MADE OF ENDLESS CUT SHREDDED EDGE CHIFFON, ACCENTUATED WITH COVERED PEARLS AND PETITE CHIFFON TULIPS EMBELLISHED WITH HANDMADE PAINTED SEQUINED FLOWERS BY JHOE LINA

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ON ZOE: GREEN COCKTAIL PUFF SIDE LAYERED DRESS WITH DEEP V NECK, TEAMED WITH TRADITIONAL-INSPIRED LOIN SHAWL, ACCENTUATED WITH DANGLING CLEAR CRYSTALS, BY JHOE LINA

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ON ANGELIA: ULTRA FEMININE GOWN OF LAYERS OF PINK TULLE BLENDED WITH THICK LASER-CUT FABRIC BY ELMER CARBALLO

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ON ZOE: A TOUCH OF TURQUOISE ON A DRAMATIC FLAWING WHITE TULLE GOWN FOR THE YOUNG, ACCENTUATED BY LASER CUTTINGS AND SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS, BY ELMER CARBALLO

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ON ANGELIA - LILAC HIGH NECK EVENING DRESS WITH A FLOWY SILK TAIL, EMBELLISHED WITH EMBOSSED EMBROIDERY FLOATING ON NUDE TULLE WITH A SUBTLE TOUCH OF SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS, BY MANNY CAJOLES

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ON ZOE – DRESS OF SOFT GREEN CHIFFON IN A CLASSIC DESIGN WITH INTRICATE DRAPPING, EMBELLISHED WITH FEATHER PATTERNED EMBROIDERY, AND SUBTLY ACCENTUATED WITH SWAROVSKIS, BY MANNY CAJOLES

44 FASHION

ON ANGELIA: FLORAL-PRINT SILK DRESS WITH FLOWING CUT-OUT SKIRT, ACCENTED WITH FABRIC FLOWERS AND SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS ON ZOE: EMPIRE-CUT SILK DRESS WITH TURQUOISE TOP AND FLORAL SILK SKIRT, EMBELLISHED WITH MULTI-COLORED SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS

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ON ZOE: VICTORIAN-INSPIRED SOFT BLUE GREEN EMPIRE-WAIST DRESS ACCENTED BY PINK SILK LACE RIBBONS AND BROOCH, INCLUDING EMBROIDERY, CRYSTALS AND BEADS BY ANGEL DE JESUS

FASHION 47

ON ANGELIA: WHITE CORSET TOP, PAINTED WITH ANGEL WINGS CRYSTALLIZED BY SWAROVSKI HOTFIX, ACCENTUATED WITH ROYAL BLUE SILK RIBBON. HOOD AND SOCKS DECORATED WITH SYNTHETIC POLAR BEAR FUR STRIPS FOR A YOUTHFUL AND FUNKY EFFECT – ALL BY ANGEL DE JESUS

48 FASHION

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50 FASHION

DESIGNER’s GUIDE

JHOE LINA

Chic Lady P.O. Box 9667 Doha, Qatar Tel. No: (+974) 4444 7544

JOEY BALUYOT

Al Maraya Fashion Behind Ramada Continental Hotel, Deira, Dubai Tel. No: (+971) 4 269 2600

ELMER CARBALLO Shams Luxurious Fashion Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel. No: 02 673 4686

ANGEL DE JESUS MANNY CAJOLES

Manny Couture Fashion 304 Rolex Blg., New Central Market, Airport Road, Abu Dhabi Tel. No: (+971) 2 622 2203

1001 Nights 122 Mezzanine Floor, Al Hana Center, Jaffliya, Bur Dubai, Tel. No: (+971) 4 358 0202

54 ARTS

By Shar Matingka

Love at the

CENTER

STAGE Dark chocolate: a taste of decadence, a dance of inner bliss, a memory of clandestine moments, a faint trace of bitterness overpowered by sweet triumph and love. It is the most fitting simile to performing arts couple, Jojo Mamangun and Kris-Belle Paclibar - young and exuding radiant passion for expressing the complexity of life, and the stories of epic fantasy, as well as abstract sensuality of desire through dance. Jojo and Kris-Belle have the uncanny ability to nourish our daydreams where we place ourselves on a stage fairly lit and only dance make up for words unspoken.

Humble Beginnings Jojo spent his early school days in Baguio where he discovered his interest in indigenous musical instruments and gradually acquired a keen sense for visual arts. When it was time for him to leave the cool mountain air set against the colorful ethnic backdrop that is Baguio, he carried with him the promising visage of a charming Filipino meant to become an artist. From North he went South to pursue a future in visual arts, an advocate of indigenous music at the prominent Philippine High School for the Arts. However, destiny had written something else for the young Jojo. With no courses available in the craft he had hoped to study, he landed in Folk Dance and unexpectedly did quite well. Years later, he earned a scholarship in Performing Arts majoring in Dance at the College of St. Benilde

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and simultaneously, an apprenticeship in Ballet Philippines. With the support and encouragement from his family, Jojo was on the verge of conquering his future in dance.

In Davao, four-year-old Kris-Belle constantly followed dance shows on television, her eyes beaming with innocent fervor. Soon enough, her lifetime dream was born. Somehow, she knew that she would grow up to be a ballerina. Decisive even at a very young age, she nagged her parents to send her to dance school. By the time KrisBelle was nine, she was enrolled at the Locsin Dance Workshop, a revered dance school in Davao administered by the illustrious Carmen D. Locsin. Fast-forward to 1994, Kris-Belle took on a serious perspective at ballet being a crucial element that would determine

ARTS 55 her future as a performing artist. With unbridled determination and perseverance, she surpassed many challenges, including some of her own limitations. Unbeknownst to many who knew her, she slowly emerged as an exceptionally talented dance artist.

Written in the stars 1998 was the year when Jojo and Kris-Belle, then strangers, saw their budding stage identities metamorphose. Then, Kris-Belle was in Manila with Ballet Philippines. Interestingly, a year later, Jojo - also under the apprenticeship of the same ballet company - was sent to Davao for an Intensive Dance Training with Agnes Locsin.

Not before long, Jojo and Kris-Belle’s paths crossed when batches within Ballet Philippines merged to work together in Manila.

Kris-Belle - petite, sinewy and smart - was already popular for her extraordinary fluid movements and as a brilliant alumna from Davao’s famed ballet school. Jojo candidly recalled, that he was indifferent the first time he saw Kris-Belle. And to the Davaoeña beauty, Jojo’s seemd like a typical snob who usually responded with two words, at most, whenever she tried to strike a conversation.

But the impersonal masks fell when the dance troupe started to fill the social gap with night outs after strenuous rehearsals. Jojo and Kris-Belle became good friends and the more they worked together in rehearsals and saw each other in classes at St. Benilde, the sooner they ‘found’ each other. Kris-Belle found Jojo’s honesty and being straightforward captivating, while Jojo found admiration in her sense of independence. Like the unexplained randomness that makes art in any form an unrestrained expression that can exist marvelously without verbal affirmation, the young dance artists fell in-love with one another unmindful of when or how their relationship from friends blossomed into a love affair.

Dance: The Lifelong Endeavor A well-maintained professional approach to their work makes Jojo and Kris-Belle an exemplary performing arts couple. With the physical demands and emotional rides always present in rendering a great performance onstage, the couple, in time and after many trials, learned to balance a harmonious personal relationship and dance career. Both have an extensive repertoire and an incredible stage presence and theatrical prowess, enough for an audience to think they could be rivals in success – yet success never came between them.

Jojo’s instinctive internalization of all his roles creates a spectacular sight of gravity defying feats that transport the audience to an uncharted world of expressive body movements. And for KrisBelle, like fine steel, her signature elegance and commanding poise sharpened throughout the years never fail to seize the hearts of audience.

The first and most memorable dance piece they both performed in a principal role was Cinderella. Their relationship, both personal and professional, was tested with constant pressure from expectations and disagreements. Nevertheless, they beat the odds.

The couple moved to Hong Kong in 2005 when they landed a contract with Disney. Jojo also began to concentrate more on his ‘other love’ – photography. In 2008, Kris-Belle joined Cirque du Soleil production in Macau, the frequently talked-about Zaia.

Earlier this year, Jojo and Kris-Belle flew home to the Philippines and got married. The wedding was attended by close friends and family and the reception was held in a Bohemian-style set up by the beach.

Kris-Belle shares her wisdom on empowerment: You just need to stay focused and give it your best shot. Do not let anything or anyone stop you from achieving your goal. Jojo relays his message to global Filipinos: Keep on learning and relearning now that you are in a different land.

Keep your feet on the ground but learn how to fly.

There are power couples in the business sector. There is that couple who crossed continents to reach a world record. We have Jojo and Kris-Belle, one of the most promising young couples in performing arts society whom we look forward to having as the faces of national pride today and tomorrow.

5 Month 56 LIFESTYLE

things To Do This

After celebrating play time at Halloween, we now embrace the countdown to Christmas. Since most of Pinoys abroad are planning to be home for the holidays, we know that November is the month when many of us start loading

By Sherry Tenorio up balikbayan boxes with pasalubong goodies. Here in Dubai, Pinoys scour the city for the best possible gifts at the most practical prices. That’s why this November, Illustrado suggests a number of things that can help us fill those empty boxes without further hurting our pockets.

1

Pay a visit to Dubai Outlet Mall

It’s way out of town but visiting the Dubai Outlet Mall is quite satisfying especially for the Pinoys who prefer to buy branded products. And, since Pinoys are admittedly brand junkies, the Dubai Outlet Mall, which has around 800 brands from clothes, accessories, jewelry, electronics, furniture, promises to be an exciting shopper’s paradise. Dedicated to be the ‘factory outlet’ shopping center, huge discounts await shopaholics on brands like Nine West, Mango, Massimo Dutti, Diesel, Lacoste and many more.

Aside from the big savings and the big brands, the mall houses the famous family entertainment center Chuck E Cheese where kids can play while parents scour the mall for good finds. So, may it be bargain hunting, bowling, ice skating or games, Dubai Outlet Mall is definitely worth the drive all the way to Al Ain Road.

2

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Walk by the Covent Garden If you were at The Walk in Jumeirah Beach Residences for an easy, breezy Thursday dinner, Friday brunch or Saturday dip in the beach, do not forget to come by the small square in Al Rimmal. This space is dedicated to Covent Garden where you’d find a number of quaint shopping stalls. From the regular maxi dresses to gypsy-inspired Mediterranean apparel, shiny shoes and sparkly accessories, and even some indie art, Rimmal square is full of special merchandise.

So, walk around and you just might find interesting gifts to buy. Do remember, though, to always haggle for the price. Covent Garden is now officially open from Wednesday to Thursday for their night market, while Friday and Saturday are for whole day shopping.

LIFESTYLE 57 Step in to the Gold Souk It is general knowledge that when it comes to buying jewelry, one must pay a good visit to the Deira Gold Souk (Deira Gold Market).

More popularly known as the Gold Souk, this area is not only recognized in Dubai, but is also considered as ‘the’ place for the finest and biggest collection of gold in the world. The souk has lovely arrays of jewelry shops offering gold at reasonable prices - one of the lowest in the world actually. Street after street, the souk is crammed with gold, precious stones and even diamonds, all perfectly enveloped in the wooden lattice welcoming arch, beautiful Arabesque designed dome ceilings, sturdy coral brick walls and wooden floorings. That’s why if you are looking for some precious gems for your family back home, you’ll surely enjoy your visit at the Gold Souk. Again, as a rule in bargain hunting, always ask for huge discounts – you’ll never know the sellers might surprise you by giving in to your desired amount.

4

Swing by the Karama market If you have tons of family members to give homecoming gifts to, then you just have to come by the Karama market. Just like a version of our own Divisoria, the market in Karama is chock-ablock full of shops offering souvenirs, clothes and accessories at low prices. There are numerous stores that offer discounted perfumes, shishas, miniature Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa ashtrays, key chains, and other Dubai memorabilia. Going around the Karama market will take some time, so if you become hungry from shopping, take a pit stop at the Filipino restaurant Tagpuan that is located just around the corner. A little note of advice though, be wary of those shop attendants who offer you fake watches, bags and wallets – yes, you need bargain buys but you do not need fake buys. So, stick to the goods that can give your family joy, it may not sound as fancy as Rolex or Louis Vuitton but at least you know that what you give them is real and not a copy.

3

Tour around Global Village

Year after year, residents in the UAE eagerly wait for the opening of the largest outdoor entertainment in Dubai. This month, Global Village is opening its 15th edition, and is promising amazing activities for its guests. Aside from the cultural and children’s entertainment, Global Village is also popular for being the largest outdoor souk thus with items from all over the world. Since the main idea of Global Village is to allow its visitors the ability to travel the world by touring the park, it has divided the area into pavilions wherein each participating country can offer authentic goods and souvenir items.

This is a wonderful opportunity for Pinoys to buy masks from Nepal, handicrafts from Africa, spices from Yemen, sweets from Egypt, lamps from Turkey, scarves from Morocco, to name just a few of the many items waiting for the park goers. There is an entrance fee to the park, and the drive to Emirates Road can take up around thirty minutes from town center, but if you want authentic items to show off back home, then it is a must to go to Global Village. Take note that traffic can be a bit of a hassle so try to come as early as possible – the park opens at 4pm to 12am every day, and until 1am during weekends.

5

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Marina Mall

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Lamcy Plaza

Despite the difficult economic times the company is positioned to continue its policy of future expansion. By the end of 2010, Lifestyle is scheduled to have 30 outlets.

Abu Dhabi Mall

60 GLOBETROTTERS

City: Sydney,

Australia

Globetrotter: Boyet Damot Photos also courtesy of Boyet Damot

Dubai-based Boyet Damot, whose family, will be among the thousands of Pinoys who chose Australia as their migration destination of choice, shares travel notes from his recent trip to the ‘Land Down Under.’

What is the city known for?

While Canberra is the seat of government and Melbourne is the country’s commercial or business center, Sydney is considered Australia’s capital of culture and the arts, where the Sydney Opera House is its definitive “visual signature.”

Sydney is a melting pot of people of a diverse cultural and demographic background, as the city remains as one of the top choices where immigrants choose to live and work. Hence, it was not surprising to see Pinoys and other Asians around the city.

Getting there Emirates and Etihad both fly direct to Sydney’s Kingsford Smith International Airport. But our trip was actually a sort of “extended stop-over” from our Manila holiday (Dubai-Manila-SydneyManila-Dubai). Initial booking enquiries showed a cost of around AED23,000 via Emirates Airlines, but we later found PAL code sharing flights with Emirates that were only for AED13,000. Had

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we booked earlier than three months, we were told we could have gotten even better rates.

Where to stay Australia-based friends suggested to check www.wotif.com and www. hostelbookers.com for budget accommodations. Hostel rates (per person per night) start from AUD 25 to AUD 70; around AED245 – 685 for our group of two adults and one child. Although cheaply priced, it should be noted that majority of hostels are more suited to young travelers or backpackers versus families with children.

Instead, for this trip, we stayed at the five-star Intercontinental Hotel Sydney at Macquarie Street near the edge of the Sydney Harbor, with a view of Sydney Harbor, the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Opera House. We booked through the hotel website and paid AUD 278 per night (approximately AED912) for two adults and one child roomsharing inclusive of buffet breakfast.

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Must do/must see From our hotel, Sydney Harbour, and more specifically the Circular Quay, is just minutes away by foot and most of the must-see places are just around the area. From Circular Quay, you can take the Metro, the public bus and any of the world-famous Sydney Ferries to destinations farther away from the Sydney Central Business District.

Highly recommended places to visit are: Custom House which has a miniature model of the entire city which provided in great detail all the key locations and landmarks of the city. The Sydney Opera House - an iconic structure with its unique architecture. Here you can watch world-class plays, musicals, art exhibits and other cultural shows. The Rocks - at western side of the Circular Quay, is the site of the early settlements in the 1700s, transformed in the 1970s into a tourist area where Sydney’s cosmopolitan crowd as well as tourists fill up the various restaurants and bars. Darling Harbour - about 20 minutes by ferry from the Circular Quay wharf, featuring the world’s largest IMAX Theater, the Australia National Maritime Museum, the Sydney Aquarium, the Sydney Wildlife World and the Chinese Garden. Sydney Harbour Bridge - for around AUD188 (AED 615), you can join a group of other adventurous people on a supervised climb all the way to the apex of the bridge, some 134 meters above the harbour.

The city’s best kept secret If you are in Sydney on a Sunday, be sure to take advantage of the “Family Fun Day” where groups (two adults and at least one child) can avail of an all-day ride-all-you-can pass for just AU$ 2.50 a piece.

This applies to all public transport – the Metro, the buses and the ferries. This is a unique government incentive to get the Sydney residents up and about on Sundays to see the sights and probably stimulate the local city economy.

What to wear We visited Sydney in the middle of the Australian winter in June 2010 – a pleasant escape from the Dubai summer. Layered clothing helps during the day with the temperature at 16 degrees Celsius, but a good jacket, scarf and bonnet will do even better.

What to bring Aside from proper clothing depending on the time of year you intend to visit, any self-respecting traveler should bring a dependable camera.

It doesn’t have to be a DSLR, a handy point and shoot compact will do. If you are a serious photohobbyist, it would be a sin not to bring your camera tripod too, or else you would be missing out on some excellent night photography opportunities.

Sydney is a cosmopolitan city and if you have enough cash, a credit card and can speak English, you should be fine.

What to avoid Australia has strict border controls and screening procedures at the customs gate. Be extra safe and make sure you don’t have pirated copies of DVDs and other “illegal” materials in your luggage.

How much money do I need for this trip I brought only around AUD 700 in cash as I felt more secured to use a credit card for all transactions as much as possible. We had a daily budget of AUD100 for meals and small purchases. Shopping was at a minimum – mostly for small tokens for friends back home and the usual souvenir shirts.

62 GLOBAL BARRIO

My Pinoy Life In…

Izola, SlovenIa Can you recount briefly how you moved there?

I am Gia Rama, a mother of one and the wife of a Slovenian engineer.

I remember meeting my husband in Cebu, Philippines. He was there on a project working as a commissioning engineer for one of the TransCo substations in Mandaue City where I was previously working as a secretary to the District 2 Department. That’s where it all started - the meeting of two hearts, and of two different worlds.

My husband won my heart in so many ways. But moving with him in after we got married, to a country which I never heard about was not an easy thing to do. I heard about ex-Yugoslavia and the neighboring countries but Slovenia? I never knew it existed.

Tell us something about your host country and your life there.

Slovenia is famous for their limestone caves, rivers, castles, and they have the biggest ski jump in the world. Other than this, the country is also famous for their wine. They make homemade wine which I enjoy so much. Wine is always present in every house and in every celebration. The locals love get-together parties. Even sharing a cup of coffee with the family is important to them. They have close family ties like we do. Well, that's what I see with my husband's family. They love being together. Slovenians, however, don’t show their emotions too much. They themselves admit that they are quite cold. Some of them give you a certain reaction or look that makes you feel bad and small. But then again, it's cultural and it’s just a matter of getting used to.

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Gia Rama

As for me, I have somehow accepted their ways, and now I love it here. Although first, it was very hard. I arrived at the worst season winter! For a tropical girl like me, arriving in winter was terrible. It was gloomy and cold. The worst thing was, I was home sick. I wanted to go back to the airport and get the first flight back to the Philippines.

But of course, I did not. I took a risk and gave it a try. The first few months were not easy. People were looking at me strangely. I did not have friends, no work and no social life - nothing! I remember crying because I felt so alienated. I met some Filipinas after a while and it got a bit better. But then I still felt sad. My husband was not around so much. He was travelling and working around the world something I had to accept.

But it was not all tears for us. It was interesting for me too. Winter meant snow! Yes! Snow! The first time I saw and felt snow, I was so amazed how it came down slowly from up there and it seemed like the world was so silent. But then again, this silence just made me lonely again. I was missing my family in the Philippines so much. I still do. So ok, the seasons changed and with the season, my feelings and emotions changed too. As I slowly felt the warmth of summer, I felt lighter. I started to go out and meet more people.

What do you there do for a living and how do you keep busy?

In May 2008 I got employed as a secretary in an engineering firm called CCE, d.o.o. From that time, my life got busier, and of course, I was very happy about the fact that I was also earning. In the same

GLOBAL BARRIO 63

year my son Grant, started elementary school. So I had to do double time working in the office, taking care of the house and helping my child with his studies. I am also into dancing lessons, and had the opportunity to perform for an audience. I was also in a multi-cultural fashion show which was held in Izola.

It was composed of women and children of different races. We had to present our national costumes and display our dishes which were offered for free tasting.

I also joined the 10 kilometer marathon just last year. I am quite sure that I am not the only Filipina enjoying these opportunities.

Is there a Filipino community there?

This year, I was elected as President of the Filipino community here in Slovenia, another responsibility which I gladly accepted. There are about 80 Filipinos here. We gather once or twice a year for the Independence Day celebration and Christmas party. We have no major projects yet, but I feel that we will get there someday. Last year, our community here has done our part in helping the victims of the typhoon Ondoy. We have sent used items or clothing. Unfortunately, acknowledgement never reached us. I do not mean to make it sound like we lack attention or we need the world to know that we have helped. But my aim was for Slovenia, especially the Filipino community here, to be made known to the whole world. Slovenia exists… we exist here.

Filipinos are far more vibrant and warm than the people here. Naturally, we are the open and friendly ones. People like us here. But of course, racism can't ever be denied. But then again, generally, we are well-accepted and respected. Most of all, they love our beauty; they love the tropical and exotic look that we have, our color. This is the very reason why I like getting a tan even if I am already dark. In the summer, we go out and take advantage of the sun. We go to the beach almost every weekend. There are even times when we make use of the little time we have after work. But Slovenia is not famous for their beaches. We cross the border and go to Croatia to enjoy clean and clear waters.

Your message/greeting to Filipinos across the globe Greetings to all Filipinos all over the world! Here’s wishing you good health and happines with your loved ones. Like all others, the Filipinos here are also working to make their lives better and, of course, with the intention to help those they have left back home. Let us all work together and make this happen without stepping on someone else's rights. Let us respect each other, no matter what differences we have. We are all brothers and sisters in the eyes of God. Let us act this way.

64 TRIPPIN’

Beyond the

Gravestones

By Excel V. Dyquiangco

Since November is all about the dead – one might as well take a visit to the interesting graveyards of Manila, which not only provide fascinating architectural talking points, but a peek into history, including the past lives of some of the country’s most influential figures. Before you shy away from the idea though, consider that the sprawling landscapes, the majestic and intricate monuments actually do speak volumes, providing one a distinctly weird, but wonderful appreciation of how those who have passed are paid homage long before they are gone.

Manila Chinese Cemetery There is no question why this is called the Manila Chinese Cemetery – the structures that abound remind visitors of a Jackie Chan movie with its historic and exotic molds depicted in any one of his scenes. Chinese halls, memorials and temples with its unique designs all adorn the gateway to the second oldest cemetery in Manila.

Guests are treated to one of the grandest Chinese temples in Manila at the entrance, the Chong Hock Tong Temple, which is different from other temples since this was built in the 1800s. Its architecture is similar to the ones located in the Fujian province in the southeast coast of China, and the elaborate structures of temples in Singapore and Malaysia with their upturned eaves and colorful wall paintings.

The Martyrs Hall (Liat See Tong) was constructed to give honor and recognition to the Chinese community leaders who were put to death by the Japanese during World War II. Not as grandiose as some of the other temples, but still worthwhile seeing in lieu of the portraits of the martyrs and the bit history (in Chinese, though) in its four walls.

Other notable places within the Chinese Cemetery are the Carlos Palanca Memorial, or the Tan Quien Sien in gratitude to the efforts of the famed Chinese businessman and leader for giving the Chinese proper burial sites during the Spanish regime, and the Ruby Tower Memorial where hero Apolinario Mabini used to be buried. The mausoleums are also a sight to behold. Much like the houses in pre-modern China, they emulate a rich man’s house – usually a two-storey structure with a terrace or a patio, and no windows.

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Manila American Cemetery Administered by the American Battle Monuments Commission, the Manila American Cemetery is the largest in terms of the number of graves. The cemetery covers 152 acres of gently rising grounds which ends at the memorial. The entrance to the cemetery is at the far north side of the grassy circle just beyond the military sentinel’s post at the junction of the Nichols Field Roads and McKinley. Upon entrance, visitors are greeted with the circular fountain of the plaza and at right is the visitors’ building.

Stretching from the plaza to the memorial is the central mall lined with mahogany trees; roads going eastward and westward leading to the graves and some wells and deep reservoirs, which provide potable water within the cemetery.

The area for the graves is divided into eleven curved lettered plots of varying sizes forming concentric bands around the high ground on which the memorial stands. The 17,097 headstones within the plots

form segments of concentric circles and mark the graves of the US Military and some Philippine nationals who were serving in the US army. Most of these headstones were quarried in Laza or Carrara, Italy, as well as in the island of Romblon.

The memorial is clad in Travertine limestone quarried near Tivoli east of Rome. It consists of the tower containing the small devotional chapel, and the two extensive hemicycles to its front which embraces the Memorial Court. The chapel stands between the south ends of the hemicycles – with the great seal of the United States carved in Travertine paving. The façade of the tower is decorated with scriptures, the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer, and the altar set against the rear wall.

Other features are the maps made of tinted concretes with brightly colored fine aggregates; the Southwest Room which has seven maps and their descriptive texts; and the Northeast Room which has six maps and the Northwest Room with five maps.

66 TRIPPIN’

Libingan ng mga Bayani This memorial cemetery is a tribute to the gallant men and women who brought honor to the country and died for the sake of democracy and freedom. Not only are presidents and statesmen buried here but national artists, scientists and various personalities who brought recognition to their different fields. This is a shrine, a memorial and a cemetery, and a reminder of extreme reverence to the country’s fallen heroes – all in one.

Upon entrance, an imposing structure shaped in the form of a large concrete tripod known as the Heroes Memorial Gate greets the visitors. This has a stairway which leads to an upper view deck and a metal sculpture (which looks like a disco ball) at the center. Erected at the sides near this structure are two stone brick walls which bear the quotations by General Douglas McArthur: “I do not know the dignity of his birth but I do know the glory of his death.”

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is constructed at the center of the cemetery where an inscription shouts out on the tomb: “Here lies a Filipino soldier whose name is known only to God.” Behind the tomb are three marble pillars representing the three main groups of islands in the country – Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Similar structures which also depict Filipino bravery and courage are enshrined in three monuments. Those who have dedicated their lives during the Bataan and Corregidor siege are epitomized in the Bataan and Corregidor Defenders Pylon while Filipinos during the Vietnam War are honored in the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Pylon, a striking structure set with the form of an eagle perched on top.

Other prominent monuments are the Korean Memorial Pylon, a towering structure resting on a triangle with the names of the 112 Filipino officers and men who perished during the Korean War; the Philippine World War II Guerilla Pylon, a black-walled tower in honor of those who fought during World War II.

Manila North and South Cemeteries The Manila North Cemetery (aka Cementerio del Norte) is a community in itself, thriving with vendors, small grocery stores, sarisari stores, carinderias, tricycles, small restaurants in the backyard, and even a basketball court - and home to about 10,000 residents.

One of the oldest cemeteries in Metro Manila, this encompasses 54 hectares – not only occupied by the mausoleums, the crematorium, or the tombs but by houses and shanties as well. The streets inside are lined up with a couple of apartment-type tombs, which some have been painted with a bright color so it would stand out from the rest.

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The designs and styles of the tombs and mausoleums are of no real architectural value, except for some heavenly structures such as angels, and statues of saints.

What’s so interesting about the square-shaped Manila South Cemetery, however, is that it is set with the Makati business district as its backdrop. The 25-hectare cemetery (about the same shape and size as the campus of the University of Santo Tomas) has former President Elpidio Quirino as one of its “residents.”

68 TRIPPIN’

Haunted Holiday

By Mike Martin

I had been haggling with both my boss for a sanity break. Boy, did I need a vacation! I got my green light, and was prepared to fly off in an instant. The catch was that I do team building as well, which means ‘baby sitting’ my cronies while I recharge. So I whisk everyone off to a secluded, yet highly recommended resort in Bataan, which is just two hours away from Manila: Raven Resort.

Why not? Bataan is such a beautiful province, urban and rural in the same breath. Rolling green hills and mountains, breathtaking beaches, and scenic highways abound. Plus the clincher: mild mannered and friendly locals. For those who need refreshers in the country’s history, Bataan was the last bastion of freedom during World War II, site of the Death March, and the Shrine at Mt. Samat. Yes it is a poignant place, beautiful and tragic all at the same time.

While everyone went to their bunks, I ran off to my room with the ‘hot tub,’ eager to start my much-needed respite. I opened the door and she was in the bed - an overstaying guest. Yes you guessed it right, a ghost! Now I am not the kind who minds female company, but I prefer them not to be so transparent. I had two options – I can either ignore her, or I can go to the next room and crash with my team. I chose option two.

It was off peak season, so we had the entire resort to ourselves; five pools with slides, a basketball and tennis court, fully furnished rooms and two function halls. Whoopee! We arrive ten-thirty in the morning and revel in the crisp and fresh provincial air. The place was every bit as the recommendation had said, which made me a very happy camper. They even had a mini zoo!

Feeling refreshed after a short nap, I herded my hungry colleagues to a sumptuous lunch. The food was to die for, and for average people, a bit off the normal mix. We had palabok, spaghetti, regadillo (tastes like lechon paksiw), grilled milkfish and tilapia, grilled pork and rice.

Everyone was in high spirits, laughing as we ate. Maybe I’d be able to forget the little incident in my room. Then I saw Mike, one of my

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TRIPPIN’ 69

agents, who also happens to have his third eye open. We exchanged meaningful looks. Oh brother, he saw her too!

As we were cleaning up, he approached me with a weird smile on his face. “I knew it would be bad if we were both at the same place, a secluded place at that. So you saw them too?”

My alarm bells went off. “Them? You saw more than one? Wait, did you bump into the beautiful one with Chinese features?”

“So that’s why you took a nap. I counted five roaming around. And they’re really not like, white ladies, right? They seem to be, well, I’m not sure if they know they’re dead. They’re the talkative kind too.

And they are aware as well, like they’re alive.”

Apparently, there was a whole village of them. Of all the places to go to, I had to pick a haunted resort for a vacation spot! That the ghosts weren’t just drifting phantoms was beginning to frighten me.

The gang went swimming soon after, and I went back to the bunk.

There she was again, huddled on the lower bed in the far side of the room. Her eyes! She was looking at me directly. She knew I could see her! Mike was right, they were aware! Just then I felt the hairs on my nape rise, and my heart began to race. Sweet mother, there was someone behind me! I forced myself to move to where my bag was, my limbs feeling like they were made of lead. I finally reached my bed and opened my bag with shaking fingers, trying desperately to ignore them. My curiosity got the best of me despite my fear and I glanced at the door. Yes there she was right beside the door, and until now I swear I saw her smile; a smile that chilled me to the bones. Ghosts don’t do that! They float around, oblivious to the living world! I grab my things and ran, surprised that I didn’t even scream. The truth? I was so scared to scream, because they might laugh at me. I always dreamt of being a ladies man, but not this way. Hell no!

The afternoon passed by without further incident. I tried to compose myself before rejoining the group and eventually fooled myself into being comfortable. We had dinner at around seven, and proceeded to start the booze and karaoke binge near one of the pools. The gang was having a blast enjoying their vacation. People were diving in the pool, drinking, and singing. The night went on perfectly.

Then chinky was there, on the far left end of the pool. The guys were with me and were trying to see who could stay underwater the longest. Mike was on the opposite side of the pool and caught my eye. He knew. His eyes veered to my left and I knew there was one more - the plain looking woman in the bunk. I look at the women singing their hearts out on the Karaoke – there was the door lady.

I swing my eyes, number four and number five! Four females and a male! Then it struck me as my hairs stood on end – they were all so young! They looked like they were on vacation too! Dear me, what have we gotten into!

Time froze as Mike and I stood there watching. Ace decided to rinse and change, and I went with him. I was still in the shower when I heard screams and everyone came barging into the room. Mike

was shouting expletives and cursing. “They touched me, they freaking touched me!” he kept saying over and over, and everyone else was wide eyed. Saldy took a peek outside, and announced, “They’re there all right!” I took a peek and there they were, spread across the lawn in front of our door. There was no mistaking the malevolence this time, they reeked of it, the way you smell an open manhole from one hundred yards away.

I closed the door and faced my troops with dread. Some sobbing hysterically and some were panicking. We were calming everyone down when Mike fell into a seizure and things went crazy. His fingers and arms were twisted in angles and his head was twisted so far I was waiting for it to snap. We decide to make a break for it to try and get Mike to a hospital, but as we carried him, the seizures stopped and he breathed normally. We look outside and they’re not there anymore.

“I knew it would be bad if we were both at the same place, a secluded place at that. So you saw them too?”

We stayed indoor for the rest of the night and left early the next morning. It’s been months, but to this day Mike would not tell me what happened to him, or if he knew why they stopped haunting us.

I’m just glad we got out in one piece.

I did find out who they were. The locals relented when I gave accurate descriptions of the ghosts. They were friends who got hit by a tanker truck as their vehicle was leaving the resort, and chinky was a suicide case. I was going when one of them said: “You didn’t ask about the kids.” I whirled around.

“Excuse me?”

“I thought you saw all of them, including the two kids always seen dragging a coffin. Some even say there’s a spirit haunting the pools, drowning guests who are swimming at night.”

I shrugged my shoulders and walked away, wondering why all their pools are just five feet deep.

70 COMMUNITY

The Filipino Community 2010-2011

On the 15th September 2010, 40 Filipino organizations casted their votes at the Philippine Consulate General Office for the FILCOMs 2010-2011 leadership. Anna Liza Concepcion of FORAC won chairmanship through a unanimous vote, and members of the Executive Committee were appointed as follows: Matilyn Bagunu (SMFCC) – Communications, Winston Gonzaga (PICPA) – Finance, Jamalodin Dilawangun (ATO) – Health and Safety, Ollie Pineda (FACE) – Logistics, Randy Lopena (SRB UAE Council) – Mini Bazaar, Engr. Cherry Pye Zablan-Torres (FCC) – Programme, Amor Dagdag (Tunog Pinoy) – Promotions and Marketing, Gina Salazar (FDSC) – Protocol, Engr. Milo Torres (OPPPS) – Souvenir Programme, and Engr. Dante Delizo (CADD Group) – Sponsorship.

Under Concepcion’s leadership, the FILCOM aims to build a Filipino Social Club in the country, on top of initiating and continuing other community endeavors. To achieve these, numerous fundraising projects need to be implemented. The first fund-raising event, “Gabi ng Lagim sa Disyerto” held on the 4th November 2010 was attended by 454 Filipino Community members and guests. The highlight of the evening was the Best Halloween Costume Competition wherein major prizes included a 32-inch LCD TV, one-way ticket to the Philippines, laptop, karaoke home theater and many more

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consolation prizes. The proceeds of the event were used to purchase the Queue System, a numbering device, which is now temporarily installed at the Philippine Consulate General Office.

Another major event slated to take place this year is the Bayanihan Festival scheduled for the 10th of December 2010. The event traditionally held as a Christmas celebration for the community aims to promote the spirit of the holidays among Filipinos. The venue of this year’s celebration is The Philippine School (TPS) in Rashidiya, Dubai. The Bayanihan Festival’s programme will include presentations from the different clubs as well as the following competitions - Painting Contest, Lantern Making and Little Miss Bayanihan 2010. This specific project is currently being spearheaded

by Programme Director Engr. Cherry Pye Torres. Big sponsors have already confirmed to support the event with GMA Network committing to send two popular artists to grace the occasion.

Beyond the Bayanihan Festival, FILCOM plans to greet the year with a bang with a Thanksgiving Party for the community, while a charity road-trip is slated for February 2011. The most-awaited community event, the Philippine Independence Day will be scheduled as usual sometime in June 2011.

BAYANIHAN CORNER 71

Of Crab or “Talangka” Mentality

By Ambassador Grace Relucio-Princesa

As some of you readers may know, as of 14 May 2010, Bayanihan was established. Encouraged by the Philippine Embassy, Filipino Community leaders signed a resolution agreeing to the way forward for them as concerned and dedicated men and women. It is envisioned to be a mechanism that will govern the voluntary work of accredited Filipino organizations and individuals in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region. The spirit of Bayanihan is to bring out the collective heroism of every Filipino, with the interest and benefit of the Filipino people in the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of the Philippines in mind. As such, we all become “bayanis” or heroes to each other.

As the painting in the Ambassador’s room shown during my opening spiel for the Bayanihan Hour with the Ambassador at the PATV show, this old and valuable volunteer spirit of the Filipinos has always been a source of camaraderie and fun. The work of art depicts how fellow villagers or “kabarangays” literally help each other to move a house from one place to another. The men are shown carrying the heavy dwelling while the women took care of the food and possibly, the food sharing and fun afterwards. It cemented good neighborly practices and broke down barriers. Everyone was part of each other’s lives in an open and transparent manner.

In my dialogue with the members of the Filipino communities since I came and as information campaign about Bayanihan, I would often discuss what is not a part of it - i.e. the “manana habit,” being “ningas-kugon” and having crab or “talangka” mentality. I always emphasize that nowadays, it is very seldom that we practice the old representation of the value. Instead of real houses or bahay kubos, we now carry the ‘House of the Philippines.” Thus, the importance of

unity and camaraderie is never more relevant than the present, as we endeavor to be “taas noo” Filipinos.

When we then snipe and pick at each other and try to bring down “kababayans,” for whatever reason or means, the talangka (small crab) in us surfaces. Watch these small creatures when they try to get out of the container basket that they are kept in. Once a crab almost reaches the top, others pull them down. Thus, instead of one being able to climb out, they all come crashing down. Similar to us, sometimes. If some members of the Filipino community manage to achieve either fame or fortune, there will always be someone who will manage to criticize the achievement. Instead of rooting and clapping our hands, we would rather bring down a fellow-Filipino who manages to rise to greater heights.

I am trying to study this phenomenon –why it happens so – especially related to when organizations quarrel and then disintegrate. I have recently read the book “Tipping Point” by Malcolm Gladwell which tries to explain it. He mentions there the magic number of 150 people that are still able know each other properly and care for each other. Beyond that, the human touch dissipates. I conclude than that perhaps we can try to keep our groups within this supposed number in order to keep our connections genuine.

While we try to find ways to lessen if not eliminate this negative aspect in our culture, it might be good to be reminded by a simple nugget of wisdom. It goes - “as we walk the path of life towards our God-given purpose, we cannot stop for all the dogs that bark on the street.”

72 FILIPINISM

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.

By Aby Yap

Que Horror!

It’s November. Ready to be scared out of your wits?

Come on, people, this month won’t be complete without remembering our dearly departed — God bless their souls — and without remembering that which gave us endless goosebumps, made us scream to the wrath of our neighbors, and drove us to do sabayang pagsi-C.R. OMG, help us through our sleepless nights.

But then, what would be November for the average Pinoy if not for the fright—and the fun — of it all? Mwahahaha!

Of Plants, Zombies, and Whatnot You know it’s that time of the year again when you suddenly miss MGB or “Magandang Gabi, Bayan” and its true-to-life narratives of Sto. Niño possessions, floating coffins, obsessed engkantos, and vengeful white/ black/red ladies. Hah! If not for this show’s annual Halloween special, we’d go on with our pitiable lives believing that the White Lady monopolized those female-starred tales of terror. For this enlightenment alone, we’re grateful to Kabayan Noli. (We promise to be more grateful if MGB stages a comeback, even if it’s only during November.)

And since it’s the 11th month, let’s not forget Shake, Rattle & Roll’s 11 installments (and still counting, for as long as there’s Metro Manila

illustrado Magazine

Film Festival), some of which brought out our paranoia about the least intimidating objects. A Christmas tree, for one, because it might turn out to be a human-eating-tree. And we don’t want to be served as Noche Buena. Another is the “pridyeder.” (Please, not refrigerator. Show respect to the late great Ishmael Bernal, who directed this episode.) See, it’s not just a killer fridge, which churns out bloody fingers if you want longganisa for breakfast; it’s also rather promiscuous, seducing a younger — and slimmer — Janice de Belen. Mwahahahaha!

You have to admit, too, that the creatures Undin and Witawit kept you from going near the lake and the trees for awhile back then, since you didn’t want to be kidnapped or be covered with all that yucky slime. But it must have been the long white-haired Yaya and the little creepy Lotus Feet whom you’ve prayed hard to this day to not see in the dark or even just in your mind. Because you’re definitely

FILIPINISM 73 no Kris Aquino, you can’t shriek like there’s no tomorrow. Besides, you don’t want to be reminded of that doomed — and deadly — bagua again. Or, that haunted doll (not Chaka doll, who’s just plain chaka, i.e. ugly), the one possessed by ruthless Ruth’s spirit to terrify Barbara to death.

Aha, you’re getting confused now just trying to recall your horror movie icons! And you haven’t even come across Matet’s halimaw inhabiting a huge antique jar, which so horrified her that she simply uttered… the cute and timeless line “Takot ako.” Or, Alma Moreno as a tiktik whose long tongue searches through the tummies of preggy women, stripping her of all loveliness. Then, there’s the Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes macabre master duo’s festive but not so friendly barrio of aswangs; sexy-by-day, starving-by-night manananggal; and baby-byday, monster-by-night tiyanak, more popularly known as “Ang anak ni Janice!”— not by the ‘pridyeder,’ though. It’s an altogether different story.

Shake, Rattle, and Roll in Laughter Okay, most of us don’t really mean to burst into a full blown guffaw — at least not in the quiet of the theatre — and annoy our seatmates too eager to be terrorized. But when we see on the screen (not necessarily Shake, Rattle & Roll) staggering prosthetics instead of monsters, ogling espasols instead of ghosts, and banana ketchup instead of blood, what else can we do? (Plus, they say it’ll be bad for the air sooner or later if we keep this amusement all to ourselves!)

Now, throw in a one-act performance, meaning a petrified look very much like a perky look and botox isn’t even the culprit, or the bad-boy act adopted from Robin Padilla’s defunct School of Acting and no one is exempted from massive fits. (No, we’re not referring to presidential sister Krissy who’s got too many titles anyway, being Queens of All Media, Game Shows, and Massacre Movies. Or, former and still gwaping Mark Anthony Fernandez, who’s now known as an aswang and demon siga, er, slayer.)

Sosyal screaming that must have torn the actors’ lungs as much as it painfully tears our ears. Watching a spirit gets beaten up — to which the trick question is, is it invisible or is it invisible? Love teams making pa-kilig while we hope that they get brutally killed in the process. All these and more, we can easily laugh off. But please, no pop quiz, “Can you name

which movie inspired this scene?” that we have to rummage through our mental database of past Hollywood, Korean, Japanese, Thai, Hong Kong, etc. horror films.

True, we usually pass with flying colors, figuring out the various ingredients of the Pinoy chopsuey horror flick and sometimes even correctly foretelling the ending though we’re no Madam Auring. But still, a little surprise — not in the form of a test — would be most welcome. Otherwise, we’d rather go to the perya. There, we could see “ghouls” snickering and sharing a tsismis or two as they wait for “stray victims” walking into the Haunted House. There, too, a signboard at the Horror Train says, almost pleadingly: “Don’t hurt the aswangs.” At least, it’s funny-funny.

74 FILIPINISM

The Annie B (Batobalani) Chronicles

The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmpolitan city of Dubai.

Chronicle

45

Nang Maghalo ang

Balat saTinalupan I miss my friends. Yung mga naiwan ko sa Pilipinas. Yung mga nakakasama kong mag-shopping sa Greenhills at Divisoria, lalo na kapag may Midnight Madness Sale sa mga mall. Yung palagi kong nakakaladkad sa parlor, sa sinehan, sa peryahan, pati sa cutting classes. Yung mga nakaka-telebabad at ka-text ko miski anong oras.

Yung kinikilig kapag kinukwentuhan ko ng mga crush ko, mga naiiyakan ko kapag sawi ako sa lovelife ko. It’s a pity that we had to part ways. Some got married na and are raising kids now. Yung iba naman busy sa kanilang mga lovelife at careers. Ako naman eto, dakilang bagong bayani ng bayan – nagsasakripisyo para sa pamilya at kinabukasan kaya’t malayo sa piling nila.

It’s hard to find true friends nowadays. Mahirap makahanap ng mga taong makakaintindi sa yo and who will accept you for who you are. Syempre dapat pareho kayo ng taste – sa damit, sa sapatos, sa music, sa pelikula, sa lalake, pati sa paboritong artista. Kapag makaKimerald ka natural hindi kayo magkakasundo ng mga DongYan fans. Tamo mga Vilmanians, hindi pwedeng makipag-bonding sa mga Noranians. A Kapamilya will never like a Kapuso. Gets mo?

Si Manny Pacman lang yata ang pwedeng mag-unite sa ating mga Pinoy eh. Teka, I degrees.

Hindi kasi ako madaling magkaroon ng friends. Ewan ko ba, pero mas madaming may ayaw sa akin kesa sa may gusto – feeling ko ha? Eh kasi kakaiba daw ako – weirdo, loud at eccentric. Yan ang madalas na first impression sa akin. Eh di ba first impression is last?

Kaya siguro kokonti lang ang lumalapit sa akin – hindi man lang nila ako binibigyan ng benefit of the daw. Kasalanan ko ba na istariray ako? Pinalaki kasi ako ng mga magulang ko na huwag magpapaapi. Dapat daw sa classroom, sa harapan ako lagi uupo. Kapag may gusto akong sabihin dapat daw isigaw ko para siguradong maririnig ako. At hindi raw dapat lahat ng uso eh sundin ko, dapat daw eh magkaroon ako ng self identity. Yan ang mga pabilin sa akin nina Nanay at Tatay. Kaya siguro ganito ako ka-confidence. I believe in self expression, individualism and originality. Ayoko maging back up singer lang, dapat ako ang laging bida - parang si Beyonce, si Nicole Scherzinger… si Kuh Ledesma! Wala naman sigurong masama to aspire to be the best, di ba? Well kanya-kanya yan - whatever rocks your vote, makes no difference who you are. Yun na!

Kaya naman blessing in the sky for me when I met my BFF Sheila.

First time ko pa lang sya nakilala sa office magaan na loob ko sa kanya. Pareho kasi ng costume sa Halloween Party namin noon.

Habang lahat eh naka-witch at vampire outfits eh namukod-tangi kaming dalawa sa suot naming Lady Gaga costumes. Biruin mo, sino ang mag-aakala na merong ibang kayang maglakas-loob magsuot ng ganun bukod sa akin? Sabi ko, “Ay, chica tong gurlash na itich!

Winner!” Nang sumuot ako sa isang gusot, sya lang ang nagtanggol sa akin. Mula noon, sabay na kami mag-lunch, magsimba sa St. Mary’s, mag-marathon sa panonood ng “Glee” at “Magkaribal”, mag-window shopping sa Louis Vuitton, mag-panic buying sa Outlet Mall, gumimik sa Chika Grill at kumain ng okoy sa Delmon. I also introduced her to my suking parlor, my flatmates, my carlift and to my significant other… si Adam my love.

Sarap ng feeling nang muli akong magkaroon ng confidante, alliance at partner in crime. Para akong nagkaroon ng instant kakambal – kasi pati sa pananamit madalas eh pareho kami ng outfits. Pati mga expression ko bukambibig na rin nya all of a suddenly. Finally, someone that understands me and accepts me for what I am – my new BFF! Kaya magmula noon I shared na my life with her, lalo na kapag dumarating at lumalabas kami ni Adam, sya ang third wheel all of the time. Pero just like in the movies, I soon discovered na Three is a Crowd pala.

Kamakailan lang ay nakigamit ng laptop si BFF. Nang matapos mag-internet ay nagpaalam sya at umuwi na. Nang gamitin ko ang laptop, naiwan nyang naka-log in ito sa Fezbook account nya. Bago ako mag-log out, nabasa ko ang info sa kanyang account. Name: Sheila May Smith??? Relationship Status: Married??? At eto na: In a Relationship with Adam Smith???!!! Teka, pangalan ng jowa ko yun ah! Anu itu??? Hindi naman ito yung Fezbook account ni BFF Sheila ah? So right there and them, nadiskubre kong may secret second account ang hitad. Binasa ko yung ibang info… Activities: shopping, eating, shopping, eating… Interests: fashion, movies, boys… Music: Madonna, Lady Gaga, Sharon Cuneta… Books: Macbook… Movies: Titanic, The Notebook, Temptation Island…Television: Sex & The City, Glee, Magkaribal… Hmmmm. Teka, bakit pareho lahat ng sa akin toh? Click sa Photos… Natulala ako sa mga nakita ko. Aba, puro mga pictures ni BFF Sheila at Adam – actually kilala ko yung mga pictures na yun eh – kasama talaga ako dun sa mga pictures pero na-crop na bigla sa Photoshop!!! Tapos yung mga solo shots nya puro mga damit ko ang suot nya… aba pati yung profile pic nya, kapareho ng hairstyle ko tsaka damit ko…Oh-Em-Gee, ginagaya nya ako! Stroker!!!

Tapos binuksan ko yung mga messages nya. Sa Sent Messages, puro kay Adam lahat! Binasa ko ang isa: “ Hi honey, how r u? Wen r u going 2 b bak hir in Dubai? Miss u much. I-T-A-L-Y. =) Mwuah!”

P*^%$#@%#*&^!!! Ang kapal ng fez! Nanginig ako… nanigas ang mga daliri ko. Hindi ko na itinuloy ang pag-su-surf sa Fezbook nya dahil ayaw nang gumalaw ng mga kamay ko sa tindi ng nerbiyos.

Akala ko aatakihin ako sa puso sa mga nakita ko at nabasa ko.

FILIPINISM 75

Grrrrrrrr!!! How can she do this to meeeeh???!!! I trusted her like my sister – she’s my BFF, for dying out loud!!!! Anu ito? “Single, White, Female” the movie???

Nang biglang may nag-text. “ Hi Bebeh! Juz came from Annie’s flat.

Can’t stop thinking of u. J-A-P-A-N. =) Mwuah!” from BFF Sheila.

Tamo nga naman ang pagkakataon, matindi kung magbiro. Wrong send, bruha! Buking ka na ngayon, ahas ka. P*&^%$#@%^* ka!!!

Humanda ka.

Sinagot ko ang text nya,”I’m sorry, who u? Is dis Valentina, ang babaeng ahas???” I’m sure naloka sya ngayong buking ko na sya sa mga drama nya.

Maya-maya eto na, may nag-door bell. Si Anaconda, wala nang iba.

“Excuse me pets are not allowed here!” sigaw ko sa pintuan.

“BFF….let me explain…” sabi ng bruha.

“Tell that to the marines!” pagtataray ko sa kanya.

“Pleaseeee… hear me out…” pagmamakaawa nya.

“Talk to the hands!” bira ko nga.

“It’s not what you think that you think it is…” pangungulit pa nya.

“Shut up your face!” hirit ko pa.

Naisip ko na hindi ko dapat palampasin ang pagkakataong ito.

Hindi biro ang nadiskubre ko sa kanya. Kaya minabuti kong harapin ang impakta. Bigla akong nag-transform into Cherie Gil…handang sumalakay at makipag-sabunutan sa kaaway. Ready to face this second-rate, trying hard, copycat demonya!

Binuksan ko ang pinto sabay takbo sa sofa at pumameywang. Itsura ni Angel Aquino as Vera Cruz sa set ng Magkaribal. Pero take note, ako ang bida dito ha, ako ang biktima. Dahan-dahan pumasok ng flat ang walanghiya. Ambagal lumapit sa akin. Nainip ako.

“Ang kapal naman ng pagmumukha mo para magpakita pa sa akin.

Akala mo siguro hindi kita mabubuking ano?” wala nang paligoyligoy kong sumbat sa kanya.

“Friend, panahon na para malaman mo na ako ang mahal ni Adam at hindi ikaw. Anong akala mo, ikaw lang ang maganda? Ikaw lang ang pinagpala? Ikaw lang ang anak ng Diyos? Pwes, it’s time to face the truth and nothing but the truth,” sabi ba naman ng hudas???

“The nerves of you to say that to my face! Matapos kitang ituring na kaibigan? Isa kang makamandag na ahas! Ulupong!!!” pagtataray ko.

“Oo, inaamin ko, ginamit kita. Pasensya ka, uto-uto ka eh. Bakit akala mo ikaw lang ang may karapatan maka-jackpot ng porenjer?

Di hamak naman na mas maganda, mas bata at mas sariwa ako sa yo noh?” walang kakurap-kurap nyang sinambulat sa akin. Nagpantig ang tenga ko.

“At sinong me sabi sa yong mas maganda ka sa akin? Uminom ka nga ng kape para kilabutan ka! Baka bumuka ang lupa at biglang lamunin ka. Napaka-kapal ng mukha mo! You’re fired!!!” talak ko sa kanya.

76 FILIPINISM

“Well tingnan ko na lang kung sino sa atin ang pipiliin ni Adam. Ako na mas bata o ang tulad mong dinosaur…”

Paaaakkkk!!! Bago pa nya matapos ang sasabihin nya eh isang pangBella Flores na sampal ang pinatikim ko sa kanya. Natutunan ko yun sa kakapanood ng mga teleserye eh…dapat mauna kang manampal para mas may impact. “Leche ka! Lumayas ka! Get out of my life!!!

Madapaka!!!” segwey ko sa sampal ko sa kanya.

Mabilis na kumaripas ng takbo papalabas ng flat ang bruha. Bago pa man din sumara ang pinto ay humirit pa sya ng, “Hindi pa tayo tapos, Annie….may the best woman win!!!” sabi pa nya.

“Goto hell!!!” pagtatapos ko sabay tulak ng pintuan.

Umikot ang mundo ko, nagdilim ang paningin ko. Galit na galit ako….gusto kong habulin ng itak at i-massacre ang walanghiyang babaeng yun. Kaya lang naisip ko bigla si Flor Contemplacion. Ay, ayoko ngang madungisan ng dugo ang mga kamay ko para lang sa hayup na yon. Baka mamaya nyan, hindi ko pa type ang artistang gaganap sa role ng character ko kapag isina-pelikula ang buhay ko.

Pwe! Napaka-demonya nya!!! Imbes na mag-sorry eh nakuha pa nyang pagsalitaan ako ng ganun. The nerves!!!

Never kong na-imagine na kaya pala nyang gawin sa akin ito. Then, bigla kong naalala lahat ng mga nangyari sa akin since nakilala ko sya. Kaya pala lagi syang nagtatanong noon tungkol kay Adam. Kaya pala lahat ng information ni Adam eh hiningi nya sa akin. Kaya pala tuwing darating si Adam eh lagi syang sumasama. Kaya pala lagi nyang sinisiraan si Adam sa akin. Kaya pala lagi nya akong pinipilit makipag-date sa iba kapag wala si Adam. Kaya pala sinabutahe nya ang audition ko noon para maging model sa Camera Club. It’s all coming back to me now.

Kinilabutan ako. Biruin mo ganito pala ang feeling kapag may taong gustong agawin ang buhay mo? Lahat ng bagay pinilit nyang gayahin at kopyahin at angkinin? Ang pananamit ko, ang hairstyle ko, ang pananalita ko, ang career ko, ang ambisyon ko, ang lalaki sa buhay ko??? Ohmygas, she wants to be meeee!!! Ganda ko eh.

Nanggagalaiti pa rin ako. Hindi ko matanggap at masikmura ang mga

sinabi at ginawa nya sa akin. Kailangang isumbong ko kay Adam ang mga katarantaduhang ito. Buti na lang kaka-load ko lang kanina.

Matawagan nga si Adam.

“Hello bebeh, it’s me!”

“Hey honey, wassup?”

“I have bad news. You will never believe what just happened to me.

I’m so angry!”

“Oh my… what happened? Tell me…”

“That woman…that Sheila…she’s not anymore my BFF anymore. I discover that she’s copying me. She wants to be me. Did you know that she has a Fezbook with her name as Sheila Smith? There she put you as her husband and all our pictures she crop me in Photoshop so it’s just you and her. And she sent you messages like you are her husband…and then she copy all my information also… she wants to steal you from meeeeeeeee!!!”

“Oh honey I’m sorry to hear that. Actually she’s been messaging me, emailing me and texting me weird stuff since we’ve met months ago.

She’s been coming on to me but I just always ignore her. I wanted to tell you but I knew you won’t believe me… knowing how you care for her. I’m sorry you had to find out this way…”

“Hu-waaaaaatttt???!!! You mean to tell me you know this already but you did not tell me????!!! How come??? I can’t bilibit…maybe you also like her that’s why!!! I hate you…I hate both of you!!!”

Sabay hang up ng celfone. Ibabato ko sana sa pader yung Blackberry ko kaya lang Made in China lang yun siguradong mawawasak eh hindi ko pa naman tapos hulugan sa credit card ko yun. Lalong umikot ang mundo ko, lalong dumilim ang paningin ko… pakiramdam ko nasagasaan ako ng pison dahil sa unti-unting sakit na nararamdaman ko. Nasaktan ako sa sinabi ni Adam – alam na pala nya dati pero itinago pa nya sa akin. He betrayed me! Bakit hindi man lang nya ako winarningan tungkol sa mga ginagawa ni BFF Sheila??? Siguro gusto nya yung nilalandi sya ng bruhang yun noh? Pwes, magsama kayo sa impyerno!!! Mga lapastangan! Mga hinayupak! Mga walanghiyaaaaa!!! Mga p*&^%$#@%*!!!!!

Goodbye BFF Sheila! Goodbye Adam my love!!! Teka…teka….pano na ako ngayon? Huhuhuhuhu…..=(

78 ILLUSTRADO FACES Celebrating innate Pinoy charm

Christine Abendan Photography by Eros Goze

ILLUSTRADO FACES 79 Celebrating innate Pinoy charm

Kristvi Francisco Photography by Eros Goze

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