2021 Manila Up Magazine - June

MONACO MALAYSIA UNITED KINGDOM PHILIPPINES UNITED STATES OF AMERICA THAILAND GERMANY CANADA

VOL. 6 #2

INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE

GOWN & OUT: TRAVEL IN ROME

CALIFORNIA’S ATTORNEY GENERAL

ROB BONTA OSCAR’S Red Carpet Scene

CONSUL GENERAL OF LA,

EDGAR BADAJOS

METROPOLITAN FASHION WEEK:

Lunar

Mina Grasso

NOW IN DOWNTOWN UPLAND

Allure Image, founded by Philippines-born,

Mina Sabino-Grasso, is a minimally-invasive, medical aesthetics practice.

Mina is one of the original pioneers of medical spas & her practice Allure Image has proudly served tens of thousands in the Inland Empire since 1997.

After 15 + years in its last location, Allure just opened its doors at the beginning of the year to a newly constructed, state-of-the-art facility in Downtown Upland.

LIPS

Allure offers a range of fillers to be used in the lips. For anyone who wants a subtle plumping to a dramatic increase in lip volume, Allure Image has got you covered.

BOOTY

2021 has been a majorly exciting year in the world of aesthetics. Just released & FDA-approved, QWO is a treatment for moderate to severe cellulite in the buttocks of adult women. Now, we can finally say that we actually have a cure for cellulite. Call us to book a complimentary consultation today. Step out in that bikini without an ounce of self consciousness!

SKIN

A long-standing staple in the world of facial skin resurfacing, CO2 laser has been the gold standard for decades. Up until today, in order to be treated with CO2 laser to get rid of fine lines & wrinkles or sun damage, you would have to be able to take 1-2 weeks of time off for recovery. Not anymore. Allure Image now proudly offers CoolPeel which can be done once a month with no downtime after. After just 3-4 treatments you will start seeing comparable results to traditional CO2 laser but with little to no downtime.

188 N EUCLID AVE, STE 100, UPLAND, CA 91786 (909) 982-1074 • ALLUREIMAGE.COM allureimage

INSIDE

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MINA GRASSO – by Naiia Lajoie

Mina Grasso, founding Allure Image Enhancement, Inc. – the first medical spa in California’s Inland Empire – was an unlikely outcome when she began her foray into the medical field. Having obtained a nursing degree from Loma Linda University in 1983, she then went on to the Nurse Practitioner Program at UCLA, graduating with her Masters in 1988. She spent 12 years in family practice and was the first nurse practitioner chosen to work in the emergency room at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

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“It’s a Roman Holiday!”

– by Pol Atteeu

It was so amazing to get out of the USA and start traveling again. This time we were off to the capital city of Italy, Rome. With its unique blend of culture, architecture, and history, it’s no wonder why this city is often referred to as the Eternal City or the ‘Navel’ of the World.

Rome, Italy is home to the Coliseum, the Forum, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps overlooking Via Veneto, the infamous Quattro Fontane (four magnificent Baroque fountains at four corners), and the Vatican.

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California’s First Filipino-American Attorney General Rob Bonta

Making available the position of Attorney General of California, Governor Newsom tapped the first FilipinoAmerican to hold the title: Rob Bonta.

Even with a western upbringing accompanied by an illustrious academic career at some of the nation’s most prestigious schools – graduating valedictorian at Bella Vista High School; graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in history from Yale University; studying politics, philosophy, and economics at University of Oxford; and returning to graduate with a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School – Bonta retains and represents his family’s Filipino heritage.

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Nguyen Coffee Supply Brings Vietnamese Coffee to Hollywood

Sahra Nguyen – Founder of Nguyen Coffee Supply, and featured guest on “The Drew Barrymore Show”.

A little history on Sahra Nguyen is necessary prior to getting into the interview with her. For those reading, you will come to realize what motivates a person coming from a refugee home, and what they have to endure in order to gain their own identity and brand. Also, the reader will appreciate the person as a filmmaker, activist, writer, and entrepreneur.

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At the Oscars Red Carpet Scene – by Janet Nepales

Los Angeles – We all miss red carpet events, so when the Oscars had a pandemic-inspired mini red carpet complete with social distancing at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles, we just had to check out the scene.

New Consul General of LA, Edgar Badajos – by Melody Garcia

Meet Consul General Edgar Barrairo Badajos, who assumed his post as Consul General of the Philippines Consulate in Los Angeles as of April 2021. We talked about life and service.

We talked about the Bayanihan Spirit, and we talked about what matters.

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MONACO MALAYSIA UNITED KINGDOM PHILIPPINES UNITED STATES OF AMERICA THAILAND GERMANY CANADA

INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE SONIA DIONELA BERMEJO Publisher/Executive Editor

ADVERTISING SERVICES

EDITOR NAIIA LAJOIE

SENIOR EDITOR EDITH Y. PENDLETON

Philippines

SUSAN SAN PASCUAL

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MONTE CARLO Monaco: Fashion, Style & Travel ANGELINA KALI AUSTRALIA Sugar Queen SAMANTHA GOH GERMANY Secrets of Success SILVIJA POPOVIC

Green is the New Sexy LUISSA BURTON THAILAND Siam Living MARICEL DIAZ UNITED STATES: NEW YORK Street Photography SYLVIA ZAMORA On Call ROMULO AROMIN, JR. MD

PHILIPPINES In Other Worlds BECKY GARCIA

Street Photography SYLVIA ZAMORA

Walk my Way MAYENNE CARMONA Metro Scene JOY FONG Proverbs 31 Woman JHOANNA DE GUZMAN

Pulsong Gotham GKN CASTELLANES FLORIDA Life’s Unscripted MELODY GARCIA Mental Wellness JANIE LACY

Party People AGILE ZAMORA UNITED KINGDOM Kingdom Adventures GILDA PINEDA DIONELA

Kingscript MARK ANTHONY KING LOS ANGELES In and Out of Red Carpet JANET NEPALES

MANILA UP! MAGAZINE

3756 W. Avenue 40 #160, Los Angeles, CA 90065 USA (323) 316-7716 Email: manilaup@gmail.com Website: www.manilaupmagazine.com Follow us: FB, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, Issuu

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Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.

ISSN 2768-3176

Gown and Out in BH Travel Adventure POL ATTEU & PATRIK SIMPSON

GRAPHIC ARTIST

Glass Half Fil NAIIA LAJOIE

Production/Marketing Assistant

Bryan Arevalo

Lindsley Favis

H20graphy JUSTIN LUTSKY

TV Host/Correspondent

Grand Adventure ANNA MARIE MATEESCU

GRACE AGUILAR PHOTOGRAPHERS

From Hollywood to Asia ROBERT D. WOMACK

Social Media: CELIA ABUEL

Soaring High with Fides MARIE ANTOINETTE CENIZA

Fashion Shows: JAMES GIOVANNI PAN JOPHEL HUFFMAN JOE GARCIA KEN HUGH

Immigration Professor’s Corner ROBERT PERKINS, ESQ Dine Travel & Style GRACE AGUILAR Beautiful Life MONET LU HAWAII Maui Mania EDITH PENDLETON

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Never stop believing, never stop dreaming!

California is open! Yes, June 15 was officially the date that establishments, restaurants, and businesses finally opened. It comes as a great relief that after 15 months of restrictions and mask mandates, we are finally able to move forward. And as we do so – resume our lives, venture outside, leave the comfort of our home – it is liberating. We are going back slowly to normalcy. Engaging in outdoor activities, seeing friends, family, and attending parties is just such a joy that was sorely missed.

Along with things opening back up, so too is our business prepping for new opportunities. Taking-into consideration the changes that are sure to come as we do return to “normalcy” in the coming months, Manila Up! greatly anticipates better opportunities for news coverage with actual boots on the ground, and reporting on how the new norms will affect everything from glamorous nighttime events to day-to-day life.

Truth be told, we as a publication barely survived the pandemic – much like many of the other beloved businesses out there. But we continued to serve and update our readers throughout, and now we are excited to bring you juicy news from the 2nd quarter of the year-onward. We welcome our new Consul General of the Philippine Consulate of Los Angeles, Edgar Badajos. He shared his wonderful and interesting experiences with our writer, Melody Garcia.

Showcasing our pride for successful Filipinos, our editor Naiia Lajoie also interviewed the first Filipino-American ever appointed as California’s Attorney General by Governor Gavin Newsom. In the aftermath of so much divisiveness and uncertainty, we are proud to not only still be around, but also bring you some much-needed uplifting news. Stay tuned as we share the stories of the Film-Am community, Filipino communities around the world and back in the Philippines, as well as Hollywood’s latest and greatest trends from new columnists who we just know you will love.

Thank you for continuously supporting us through the hard times, and as look forward to reuniting in the better times ahead.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

NAIIA LAJOIE Editor It has been some time since the release of our last Manila Up! issue. This summer edition comes on the heels of so much change; inoculation efforts for one, as nearly 150 million Americans are fully vaccinated. May was Asian Pacific American Heritage Month here in the US, and special attention was given to share & uplift AAPI stories as Asian-American communities are still under attack. June was not only Pride Month, but Juneteenth was acknowledged as an American federal holiday, seeking to make amends and further unify a divided nation.

While Filipinos celebrated their Independence Day on June 12th, it was only twelve days later they found themselves mourning the loss of Former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. Despite having been rocked by numerous ups and downs as of late, there is an overall sense of hope as nations gradually open up their borders to encourage tourism, welcome travellers, and stimulate economic growth once more (while remaining vigilant as the Delta variant remains prominent).

On a personal level, in April I was nominated twice for the Los Angeles Press Club’s National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards. It was my first time being a finalist, and I was humbled to represent the publication once again.

Additional wins came in the form of interviewing California’s first ever Filipino-American Attorney General, Rob Bonta. Having just obtained my American citizenship (dual; originally from Canada) in May, his inspiring story as a foreign-born half-Filipino resonated deeply, and I was honored to have the opportunity to speak with him.

Manila Up! Magazine would not have its entertainment access or press opportunities if it were not for your support.

We thank our readers for standing by us through tougher times, allowing us to continue bringing you awardnominated and winning journalism. As we embark on the latter half of the year, we ask that you maintain hope, spread kindness, and ease back into society mindfully. Celebrate the upcoming 4th of July holiday weekend responsibly.

Despite now being American, I must close-out paying homage to my Montreal-born roots. So for those fellow NHL fans following the Stanley Cup Finals, I say: Go Habs, Go!

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John Tomines is an established Filipino-American Realtor based in California. He serves the Inland Empire, Los Angeles, and Orange County areas.

Growing up, Real Estate was integrated into John’s life from early on. His parents were Top Real Estate Brokers in the Philippines, and eventually immigrated to the United State to realize their American dream. Witnessing the realty empire his parents had developed in the Philippines as a child, John too realized that this could be done not only in the Philippines, but in the States as well.

John is passionate about helping people obtain their Dream Homes. John is a Cal Poly Pomona graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance.

With John’s service, clients can count on A+ service, dedication, and most importantly, results.

“When there’s no good homes in the market, I help my clients find homes/sell their homes to the nonmarket (finding homes that are perfect, but are not for sale) or ultimately get the best deals for you with my representation.” John is also coached by the Top Real Estate Coaches and Investment trainers, which is why most clients benefit not only in being a realtor, but also an investor as well.

John also speaks Tagalog, Bisaya, Spanish, and English.

John Louis Tomines EXP Real Estate Group Real Estate Sales Agent 909-570-7647 https://johnlouistomines.exprealty.com john@johntomines.com

COVER STORY

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Mina Grasso INVESTING IN ONE’S SELF TO RESHAPE OTHERS By: Naiia Lajoie Photos by: Ken Hugh Hair and Makeup by: Michelle Molina

For family nurse practitioner Mina Grasso, founding Allure Image Enhancement, Inc. – the first medical spa in California’s Inland Empire – was an unlikely outcome when she began her foray into the medical field. Having obtained a nursing degree from Loma Linda University in 1983, she then went on to the Nurse Practitioner Program at UCLA, graduating with her Masters in 1988. She spent 12 years in family practice and was the first nurse practitioner chosen to work in the emergency room at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

Even having accomplished such accolades, her path was not apparent; she was filled with self-doubt. Mina had a Filipina auntie who sat her down, asking if this was truly the life she wanted. After all, she had voiced that she wanted a family, and with her then husband being in dentistry, pursuing nursing fully would not facilitate a life at home.

While the well-meaning aunt figure was only warning Mina not to fall into the Filipino nurse stereotype, she interpreted it as her mentor having a lack of faith in her.

Mina received a brochure in the mail advertising permanent makeup. Intrigued, she decided to take a course on it. Despite her second husband doubting her – not wanting her to resort to mere tattooing after years of education – she loved her new skillset, and took it on as a side hobby. While she never anticipated working in aesthetics, throughout her years spent nursing she was always drawn to assisting those with facial disfigurement. She wanted to help those with scars due to traumatic injuries, birth defects, or reconstruct post-cancer surgery survivors and burn victims.

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COVER STORY

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She began adding treatments to her repertoire, and in 1997 her entry into aesthetic medicine was solidified through her providing services such as permanent makeup, scar camouflage, and areolar tattooing for breast cancer survivors (still offered complimentarily).

At the time, her 13-year-old son helped with the marketing and business aspects, until he pursued his own career and the torch was passed along to her younger son. By 1999, Allure Image Enhancement, Inc. had become a family-run practice. Her husband John Grasso became the medical director, gaining interest after accompanying her to conferences.

More challenges were on the horizon for Mina however, as Allure did not fall under any particular header like “dermatology” or “plastic surgery”. As such, malpractice insurance costs were higher given medical spas were deemed riskier. “Since we keep up with the latest tech,” explains Mina, “It’s like the equivalent of collecting expensive cars. It takes a lot to run the practice.” The Grassos have had their fair share expensive lessons learned along the way; keeping up with the changing health trends, investing into the property despite others warning them not to put too much money into location. A lot of what they make goes right back into the practice. manilaupmagazine.com

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COVER STORY

So what is the “allure” of medical spas? The experience: they provide a relaxing day-spa resort atmosphere for customers. Clients can expect to be pampered. There is ambient music, refreshments are offered – the practice does not have a clinical feel, but does benefit from the same level of cleanliness. There are massage chairs present, no two rooms are alike, as the furniture is individually selected, setting the scene. Intentionally designed with a modern feel and vibrant energy, the 5000 sq. ft. space makes the overall experience more personal rather than sterile – and even accommodates yoga classes as well as dance lessons.

Like everyone else, 2020’s pandemic took its toll on Mina’s business. In the midst of relocating to their current facility after having signed a five year lease, they had to close for several months. John works as an anesthesiologist at an eye clinic, so while there was still income, the duo had to pull money from life insurance and tried to get loans in order to keep Allure afloat. But rather than get bogged down by the negativity Mina works so hard to cure her clients of, they instead chose to celebrate life.

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Common complaints of the med spa’s customers are stress, limited energy, hair loss, low sex drive, depression, mood swings, sleeplessness, poor concentration, memory loss, and fatigue. Rather than resort to taking anti- depressants, anti-anxiety or sleep medications on a regular basis, Allure suggests aesthetic procedures and treatments to counteract acne, scars, veins, and offers hair removal, tattoo removal, laser rejuvenation, and body shaping technologies like Coolsculpting. Micro-invasive skin tightening and noninvasive feminine rejuvenation are among Mina’s favorite offerings on the menu, as women’s health is a primary concern of hers.

In order to practice what they preach – encouraging raising one’s quality of life, which is essential since life is short – they put more effort into strengthening their relationship. They spent more time together, watched comedies, went to dinner and for walks. The R&R in the face of adversity paid off, as in the 24 years since its inception, the med spa is actually busier than ever.

She attributes this upon opening back-up to the fact that wearing a mask actually covers up the swelling and bruising caused by her procedures. The new location also sees a lot of drive-by traffic, being near the entrance of Downtown Upland. As far as continued Covid concerns go, employees remain masked to ensure patient comfort, while customers are not required to be.

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COVER STORY

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Ultimately the key to Mina’s success is her steadfast passion. While physicians were skeptical and standoffish at the start of her business, she is elated at the progress made: in 2022, nurse practitioners will be able to own their own practice. Eager to have her family eventually take over her practice, her next hurdle is convincing her sons – who are both involved in IT and design – to do so. After all, Allure is a concerted group effort, as her team feels more like family than staff. Love and laughter fill the air to create an ideal work environment.

In spite of dealing with difficult patients, navigating through communication issues, and having to mitigate their pickiness since they are clearly spending a lot of money, Mina offers this bit of advice for anyone thinking of following a similar career path: “Prepare for ups and downs. Pay particular attention to what they want and set realistic expectations.” She continues, “Our medical spa offers non surgical approaches to aesthetics, it’s never one and done it’s a maintenance game.” Mina is a perfect example of counting on one’s self above all else for support, and in doing so, is able to help others on their journeys to physical satisfaction. n

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HOLYWOOD

Photos courtesy of JRN

LOOKING BACK AT THE OSCARS

Red Carpet Scene

Los Angeles – We all miss red carpet events, so when the Oscars had a pandemic-inspired mini red carpet complete with social distancing at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles, we just had to check out the scene.

We have some favorites, and here they are in no particular order:

H.E.R.

by Janet Susan R. Nepales

On and Off the Red Carpet 16

The 23-year-old Filipina-American, who broke barriers by winning the Oscar for Best Original Song and being the first Filipina to do so in that category, wore a royal purple beaded hooded ensemble inspired by her legendary idol, Prince. He wore a similar sparkling hooded outfit when he won the Oscar in 1985 for “Purple Rain.” H.E.R., whose mom Agnes Wilson from Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, accompanied her to the Oscars, wore a custom made number by Peter Dundas. The outfit had a cape that was embellished with the lyrics from her award-winning song, “Fight For You,” from the film Judas and the Black Messiah. We also love H.E.R.’s total look as well – the hair, the make-up, and the signature round sunglasses in purple, of course. Bravo for the debutant on the Oscar red carpet! manilaupmagazine.com

ON AND OFF THE RED CARPET Amanda Seyfried

Mank star Amanda Seyfried looked stunning in a fiery red strapless Armani Prive ball gown complete with a revealing V-shaped neckline that split the dress down the middle, accompanied by short ruffles across the top, and a tulle fringe. To complete the sexy look, Amanda had her hair brushed away from her lovely face and used Forevermark yellow diamond earrings which totaled over $1 million each, and lastly red lipstick to complete the “it” look.

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HOLYWOOD

Zendaya

Leave it to the unpredictable talented 24-year-old actress Zendaya, star of Malcolm & Marie, to don a bold neon yellow chiffon gown on the Oscars red carpet. With her waist-long tresses blowing in the wind and her upwards of $6 million diamond necklace around her lovely neck, how can you miss in this Cherinspired Valentino peek-a-boo cut-out detailed gown designed by the label’s creative director, Pierpaolo Piccioli? She definitely turned heads and became one of the favorites of the photographers on the red carpet.

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ON AND OFF THE RED CARPET

Angela Bassett

Timeless beauty and Oscar presenter Angela Bassett, 62, was breathtaking in a red custom Alberta Ferretti gown with dramatic puffed sleeves, making her an easy head-turner on the Oscars red carpet. Simply an amazing ageless beauty!

Andra Day

Fiery Andra Day, who gave an outstanding performance as Billie Holiday in the film The United States vs. Billie Holiday, showed up and made her presence known at the Oscars red carpet with a sexy custom metallic Vera Wang gold gown that featured a large cutout and high side slit, displaying those well-toned legs. The gown, according to the 36-year-old actress, was a tribute to Billie Holiday. To complete the sexy killer look, she had matching gold stilettos, a gold clutch, and Tiffany & Co. dangling earrings.

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HOLYWOOD

Carey Mulligan

Shining brightly on the red carpet, and deservingly so, was Carey Mulligan of Promising Young Woman, who wore a gold sequin crop top and billowing skirt from Valentino that commanded full attention. With her hair pulled back and her lovely face highlighted, Carey wore dazzling gold earrings the accent her already very golden presence.

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ON AND OFF THE RED CARPET

Vanessa Kirby

Glamorous in a light blushing pink satin backless Gucci gown was Best Actress nominee Vanessa Kirby of Pieces of a Woman. Looking simply elegant, the 33-year-old actress looked incredible in a strapless gown with a dramatic train, sweetheart neckline, and a cutout design. Making the look more outstanding is her swept back look and deep red lipstick.

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HOLYWOOD

Maria Bakalova

Making her Oscars red carpet debut is upcoming 24-year-old Bulgarian actress, Maria Bakalova, who was fearless in her performance in the comedy Borat Subsequent Moviefilm. Looking like a princess attending her first ball, Bakalova was radiant in her custom Louis Vuitton white plunging neckline ballgown. Definitely a very feminine, romantic, soft and timeless ensemble – a far cry from her rough and rugged Tutar Sagdiyev character! n

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TRAVEL

THE QUAINT CITY OF LUXEMBOURG & AUSTRIA

By ANNA MARIE MATEESCU

GRAND ADVENTURE 24

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GRAND ADVENTURE Also known as Luxembourg City (Luxembourgish: Lëtzebuerg, French: Luxembourg, German: Luxemburg), it is the capital city of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and the country’s most populous commune.

Luxembourg is a small European country standing at the confluence of the Alzette and Pétrusse Rivers in southern Luxembourg. The city lies at the heart of Western Europe, situated by a road from Brussels from Paris, and 209 km (130mi) from Cologne. The city contains Luxembourg Castle, established by the Franks in the Early Middle Ages, around which a settlement developed; a fortified medieval old town perched on sheer cliffs. Being situated in the heart of Europe, it is also bordered by Belgium, France and Germany. Luxembourg is connected to the far corners of Europe by an excellent network of highways. Notable destinations near Luxembourg are France, Germany, Belgium and Switzerland. According to a 2018 study of the Ministry of National Education, 98% of the Luxembourg population speaks French, 80% speaks English, and 78% speaks German. Luxembourgish is used by 77% of the population. French is the main communication language, followed by Luxembourgish, German, English and Portuguese.

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is a landlocked country in Western Europe. The Grand Duchy has a population of 626.000 people (as of 2020), and its capital as well as largest city is Luxembourg-City. The economy

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of Luxembourg is largely dependent on the banking, steel, and industrial sectors. Luxembourgers enjoy the highest per capita gross domestic product in the world (CIA 2018 est.). Although Luxembourg in tourist literature is aptly called the “Green Heart of Europe”, its pastoral land coexists with a highly industrialized and export-intensive area. Luxembourg’s economy is quite similar to Germany’s. Luxembourg enjoys a degree of economic prosperity very rare among industrialized democracies.

As of February 2021, Luxembourg City has a population of 125,000 inhabitants, which is more than three times the population of the country’s second most populous commune (Esch-sur-Alzette). The city’s population consists of 160 nationalities. Foreigners represent 70% of the city’s population, while Luxembourgers represent 30% of the population, and the number of foreign-born residents in the city rises steadily each year.

City of Luxembourg: Its Old Quarters and Fortifications Because of its location and natural geography, throughout history the city has been a place of strategic military significance. The first fortifications were built as early as the 10th century. By the end of the 12th century, as the city expanded westward around the new St. Nicholas Church (today the Cathedral of Notre Dame) new walls were built that included an area of 5 hectares (12 acres).

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TRAVEL

Despite many assaults between the 15th to 18th century and the systematic dismantling in the late 19th century, the old quarters and fortifications of the City of Luxembourg retain its historical significance as a fortress and historic city. Bastions and other fortifications still characterize the site of the city, even if they have lost all military significance. Inside the ramparts, the narrow streets recall the minimal housing conditions of the medieval urban fabric. The city also contains the layout of its streets and many public buildings; important testimony of its origins and its development since the 10th century. Inside and at the foot of the ramparts, quarters where people lived and engaged in trades or crafts developed. They also kept places of worship, such as the Church of St. Michael, now a veritable museum of sacred art, or the Church of St. Nicolas, subsequently transferred to the sanctuary of the Jesuits, the present cathedral.

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GRAND ADVENTURE

The ancient Abbey of Neumünster is a landmark in the borough of Grund. Inside the Upper Town, in the shadow of the walls, aristocratic families and the major religious communities built their mansions called “shelters” to be close to the administrations and official institutions.

The old quarters still bear the imprint of their former inhabitants and their activities. Despite the dismantling of the fortress, the fortifications, and the old quarters, today the city is a historical ensemble of prime importance. It is an outstanding example of a fortified European city and host to an exceptional variety of military vestiges illustrating a long period of Western history.

In the heart of the old town, on the eastern side of its fish market, is the Church of St. Michael. Since 1682 its onion-shaped baroque tower has been a distinctive feature of the thousand-year-old town’s characteristic skyline. To this day, the former Dominican church along with its architecture and church furnishings, displays some important aspects of the city’s religious and cultural life. St. Michael’s is situated at a short distance from the remains of the fortified castle that belonged to the counts of the House of Luxembourg on the Bock Rock.

The City of Luxembourg played a significant role in European history for several centuries. It preserves major remains of its impressive fortifications and its old quarters, in an exceptional natural setting.

Neuschwanstein Castle lies in the Bavarian Alps in Germany. Neuschwanstein is known for being a castle of paradox. It was built in a time when castles were no longer necessary as strongholds, and, despite its romanticized medieval design, Louis also required it to have all of the newest technological comforts.

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BAVARIAN ALPS

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TRAVEL The palace was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Bavaria was a retreat in honor of Richard Wagner. Ludwig chose to pay for the palace out of his personal fortune and by means of extensive borrowing, rather than Bavarian public funds. Construction began in 1869, but was never fully completed.

The castle was originally intended as a private residence for the King, until he died in 1886. It was open to the public shortly after his death. Since then, more than 61 million people have visited Neuschwanstein Castle. More than 1.3 million people visit annually, with as many as 6,000 per day in the summer.

AUSTRIA

Austria is a landlocked East Alpine country in the southern part of Central Europe. It is composed of nine federated States; one of which is Vienna, Austria’s capital and largest city. It is bordered by Germany to the northwest, the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia to the northeast, Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland to the west. While German is the country’s official language, many Austrians communicate informally in a variety of Bavarian dialects.

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Austria initially developed into a duchy and archduchy.

In the 16th century, Austria started serving as the heart of the Habsburg Monarchy, one of the most influential royal dynasties in history. As an archduchy, it was a major component and administrative centre of the Holy Roman Empire. Early in the 19th century, Austria established its own empire, which became a great power and the leading force of the German Confederation, but pursued its own course independently of the other German states.

Although Croatian, Hungarian, Slovenian, Turkish, and other languages are spoken by the various minority groups, nearly all people in Austria spoke German. The German language is spoken widely across Austria except in the west, where the more common tongue is Bavarian, sometimes called Austro-Bavarian. The economy of Austria is a well-developed social market economy, with the country being one of the fourteen richest in the world in terms of GDP (gross domestic product) per capita. Next to a highly developed industry, international tourism is the most important part of the national economy.

It is a very clean, safe country in which to live. There is little crime in country areas. The hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions are invariably spotless while the lakes and rivers are maintained at “drinking water” quality.

A must-see destination to visit. n

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Gown and Out in Beverly Hills

WOOF-WOOF! THAT’S THE SOUND OF THE FASHION POLICE: NEW CELEBRITY COLUMNISTS POL’ ATTEU & PATRIK SIMPSON Pol’ Atteu is a Celebrity Fashion Designer. Having been a high fashion haute couture designer for over 25 years, his worldfamous flagship boutique is located at Rodeo Drive in the Golden Triangle of Beverly Hills. His impressive celebrity client list includes: Bella Thorne, Ariel Winter, AnnaLynne McCord, “The Bravo Housewives” including: Kyle Richards, Adrienne Maloof, Emily Simpson, Braunwyn Windham-Burke, Sutton Stracke, Joyce Giraud, Elizabeth Vargas, Claudia Jordan, and more. Also included are hundreds of actresses, such as Laverne Cox, Bai Ling, Mackenzie Hancsicsak, Allisyn Snyder, Gabrielle Walsh, Kym Whitley, along with Music Sensations: Kelly Price, Cece Peniston, Kat Graham, Soap Stars: Courtney Hope, Leann Hunley, Patrika Darbo, Kate Linder, and icons: Betty White, Dyan Cannon, Vanna White, to name a few! His gowns have been to Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, SAG Awards, and every Hollywood red-carpet you can think of. His latest venture is a celebrity collaboration; with Disney Star Ava Kolker, it is for a line of 3D Designer T-shirts and masks, under the brand Ava by Pol’ Atteu, just launched on Walmart.com.

He and Patrik Simpson star on the hit reality show “Gown and Out in Beverly Hills”, streaming worldwide on Amazon Prime Video. They just won the award for Outstanding Digital Reality Series from the American Reality Television Awards.

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Speaking of Patrik Simpson, he has over 25 years of extensive experience in the industry both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. This spans all areas of production; as a creator, writer, and producer. His most recent credits include: “The Flying 7’s”, “Bitches of Bel Air”, “Raising Fame”, and “Hollywood Mini Movie”. He is the Co-creator and Executive Producer – as well as star – of two television shows: “Gown and Out in Beverly Hills” and “America’s Rising Stars”.

He began in the industry as a part of casting for television and film. These productions included “Cheers”, “Thirty Something”, “Wonder Years”, “The Days and Nights of Molly Dodd”, “Moonlighting”, and Michael Jackson’s music video “Moon Walker”. An Accomplished photographer, his work has been published in Star Magazine, National Enquirer, Us Weekly, In Touch, Los Angeles Times, and People Magazine covers.

He has been interviewed on “Entertainment Tonight”, “Extra”, “Good Morning Lala land”, “E! News Daily”, “The Insider”, “Access Hollywood”, “Showbiz Tonight”, “Greta Van Susteren”, and “Larry King Live”, not to mention so many others.

And we cannot forget about the biggest TV PAWSONALITY, SnowWhite90210. This furry familiar has been on numerous magazine covers, and also stars in “Gown and Out in Beverly Hills” alongside them. She actually STEALS the show!

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TRAVEL

“IT’S A ROMAN HOLIDAY!” It was so amazing to get out of the USA and start traveling again. This time we were off to the capital city of Italy, Rome. With its unique blend of culture, architecture, and history, it’s no wonder why this city is often referred to as the Eternal City or the ‘Navel’ of the World.

Rome, Italy is home to the Coliseum, the Forum, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps overlooking Via Veneto, the infamous Quattro Fontane (four magnificent Baroque fountains at four corners), and the Vatican. We recommend that you book a hotel near Via Veneto or the Coliseum, which will put you in the center and within walking distance to all the sights and sounds this beautiful city has to offer.

Pol’ Atteu & Patrik Simpson

GOWN & OUT IN Beverly Hills 30

Our time in Rome began with a rooftop breakfast on top of our hotel, the Mecente Palace, which gave us spectacular views of the ancient city and views of Basilica Square. After our authentic Italian breakfast, we took a short walk to the Coliseum. Of course, no visit to Rome, Italy could be complete without a tour of the Coliseum and Forum. The Roman Coliseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was commissioned in 72 AD, as a place where spectators, who were seated according to rank, gathered to watch deadly combats of gladiators and wild animals fight to the death. The gladiators were usually slaves, prisoners of war or condemned criminals.

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Gown and Out in Beverly Hills

Walking through the Royal Entrance, and once we were inside the Coliseum, it was as if we were brought back in time to the day of the gladiator games; you could hear the roar of the spectators and the rumble of their hungry appetite as the gates opened for the lions to enter and the prisoners to defend their lives. Standing inside the mighty Coliseum leaves you in awe of who designed this and how this was built in ancient times.

After we spent the morning exploring the Coliseum, we continued our adventure on to the great Forum, directly across the street.

This was once the center of political, commercial, and judicial life in ancient Rome. We spent the rest of the afternoon touring this incredible sight.

Inside the Forum, was a Mecca of ancient ruins, cobblestone stairs lined with massive marble statues, meticulous gardens, fruit trees, and the remains of what was once a thriving city. At the very end of the Forum, you will find the grand mansion, once called home by

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Mussolini, filled with ornate paintings and excavated artifacts, has now been turned into a museum for all to enjoy.

While on the walk to the museum, at the top of the hill, overlooking years of excavation below, we came across a group of orange trees filled with fruit. Our guide explained to us that it was often told that if you can reach the fruit, it would be yours for the taking. Of course, Pol’ always up for a challenge, had to have a bite of the ‘forbidden fruit’ and used every means possible to get it. His reward was a delicious afternoon snack of a very juicy orange, from a tree that had been there for over 300 years!

Our time in Rome finished with a quick visit to the Quattro Fontane. These four fountains are a group of four Late Renaissance fountains located at the intersection of Via delle Quattro Fontane and Via del Quirinale in Rome. The figures of the four fountains represent the River Tiber (the symbol of Rome); the River Arno (the symbol of Florence); the Goddess Diana (the symbol of Chastity); and the Goddess Juno (the symbol of Strength).

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Gown and Out in Beverly Hills

Our last two stops were the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps.

The Trevi Fountain is arguably one of the most beautiful fountains we have ever seen. It is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world. It stands 85.3 feet high and 65.6 feet wide, and people from all over the world come here to throw a coin into the fountain to make a wish. Legend has it that if visitors throw a coin into the fountain, they are ensured a return to Rome. Another is that it is lucky to throw three coins with one’s right hand over one’s left shoulder into the fountain, and of course we did as well and we sealed our time with a kiss.

We ended the evening passing through Via Veneto, commonly referred to as the ‘Rodeo Drive’ of Italy, with a walk up the Spanish Steps. Pol’ recalled when he was invited to the famous fashion designer, Valentino’s fashion show, many years ago. Rich in history, the Spanish Steps were designed in 1723 and are 138 steps joining the Piazza di Spanga and the Trinita dei Monti church. Once we got to the top of the steps we took in the final breathtaking views of the city. It was from here that we were able to walk back to our hotel all the while taking in the sights, sounds and smells of this marvelous and unique city that has withstood the sands of time. Our days in Rome, Italy took us back to moment of history where we lived through the eyes of the Romans, and we reminisced about what it would have been like to live in such a modern city in such ancient times. Since, we both tossed coins into the Trevi Fountain, we hope our wish comes true and we will return to this romantic city called Rome.

An Italian adventure would not be complete without a stop here! n

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History

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS (BLACKPOOL ILLUMINATIONS- LANCASHIRE, ENGLAND)

by GILDA PINEDA DIONELA

KINGDOM ADVENTURE 34

Enjoyment and Celebrations are part of God’s design of His creation. It was the beginning of autumn in the midst of the month of September, I was sitting in front of the table watching my friends screaming out loud and enjoying themselves while the roller coaster called the Big One, made of 65 meters steel, with enormous speed dropped from its highest point. It was the official switch on and promenade of “Blackpool Illuminations” in Lancashire, England.

We were waiting at the actual time when the whole town will be lit with different colours and design. The Blackpool Illuminations is considered “Greatest Free Show on Earth”. The street we were on was just next to a beach. If you want you can simply gaze at the sea, enjoy the cool breeze and listen to the gentle sound of the waves.

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KINGDOM ADVENTURE And then the lights were switched on, hanging on the whole six miles stretch of the streets were about one million lamps of various types and designs with dazzling colours. There was a big lighted wheel and, on another side, the iconic Blackpool Tower. Since the first Blackpool Illuminations in 1879, when the first electric street lights in England (Blackpool) came into view, it shone for 66 nights a year. However, for the first time in history the lights were shining for 122 days from 4 September 2020 all the way through to 3 January 2021 due to Covid-19. Today, the illuminations include all imaginable forms of lights such as floodlights, spotlights, searchlights, picturesque designs, lighted tableaux, fibre optics, lasers and neon. While the artificial lights were on your sight, people had artificial happiness and when the lights were out, then that happiness faded away with it.

scan, Satellites and many more beneficial equipment, gadgets, tools that lengthen man’s lifespan among many others. We should be grateful to the scientists God used for the advancement of technology specially to a strong Christian James Clerk Maxwell, the Scottish mathematician and physicist who discovered the Theory of Electromagnetism, the combination of light, magnets and electricity. On the other hand, the Sun is the utmost source of natural light on earth. It is a gigantic ball of fire that produces massive energy in the forms of light and heat. There are other sources of natural lights such as volcanoes, stars and meteorological lightnings but those are nothing compared to the sunlight. Light from the Sun is responsible for global weather patterns, sustaining life through photosynthesis, and generally speaking it shaped the structure of the universe. There are other bigger stars discovered in our modern times but still, it is the Sun that gives the earth light and sustains life.

The Lights of the World

Light in itself is complex. There are mathematical computations of speed of light, electricity, magnetism, energy, wavelength, electromagnetic spectrum but it is just too much for the average mind like us to comprehend. Light simply cannot be defined in a single context. Presently, the available knowledge and discoveries about light is like a grain of sand on seashores compared to the actual characteristics, benefits and functions of natural light brought by the Sun on earth and the universe.

Light is an electromagnetic radiation or form of energy that the human eye can see. The sources of lights can be natural or artificial. The highly celebrated Blackpool Illuminations are made up of man-made artificial lights. The benefits of principles behind artificial lights other than seeing from the dark and in the field of entertainment, includes lifesaving Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan, X-rays, CT

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History

The Glory of God And yet, Isaiah 60:19 declared, “The sun shall be no more your light by day, nor for brightness shall the moon give you light; but the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory”. If scientific computations of factors related to light are extremely difficult, this mind-blowing proclamation only needs a simple “faith” to grasp it. If you believe, it doesn’t mean you lack grey matter (processing information on the brain). It only means you allow the Holy Spirit to move into your heart. After believing, studying the Bible is the next move to discover that the God of the Bible is the One Living God who created not only the Sun but the whole universe. The Creator offered Himself to be the eternal source of Light and Life to those who believe.

No word is enough to describe how wonderful it is, an endless celebration.

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The term “Glory of God”, whatever little that I know is not enough to portray for the reader to realize how majestic God is. Seraphim with 6 wings had to cover their face and feet with their wings while worshipping and they were calling to one another; “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory”. The whole earth is full of God’s glory and yet not all people seem to see or appreciate it the same way the angels do because of unbelief. Unbelief makes people blind for the things around them which is so bright and clear for those who read and study their Bible. Not only you will see the glory of God but you will experience His goodness even in times of trouble.

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KINGDOM ADVENTURE

The word “Glory” belongs to God. If light is defined as the electromagnetic radiation visible to the human eye, the Glory of God is the visible and tangible presence of God. The power seen by people and principalities on earth and beyond. After the fall, sacrifice is necessary for man to see the Glory of God while on earth. It was God who first sacrificed animals when Adam and Eve sinned. He clothed their nakedness with skin garments. The explicit sacrifice required of God from man during the Old Testament time was the Passover. After that, the Glory of God in many forms were witnessed by the Israelites. On the other hand, from the New Testament times up to the present day, the grandiose Glory of God revealed through His Begotten Son Jesus Christ. His death on the cross as the ultimate sacrifice for man to see the Light and have eternal Life. The glorification of Jesus is the beginning of the believers’ glory. Knowing that the Lord of Lords dwells on His people and their gathering called the “church”. Glory is not the clap of hands of man or the colourful spotlight focused on anyone.

Glory is to God and from God alone. n

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Photography

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H2OGRAPHY

QUEEN OF THE

CORALITION We have lost half of our coral reefs in the last 30 years due to climate change, pollution, overfishing, and coastal development. Every year on June 8, the United Nations celebrates World Oceans Day to inform the public of the impact of human actions on the ocean and develop a worldwide movement of citizens for the ocean. This year, to bring attention to the importance of the coral reef ecosystem, I collaborated with acclaimed ocean artivist Hannah Mermaid and eco-friendly designer Inoe Vargas to create a special series of animated, digital art pieces. These one-of-a-kind works will be minted and auctioned as NFTs with a portion of the proceeds going to support our friends at Global Coralition who have been tirelessly working to regenerate coral reefs around the world, combining art and science to empower local communities.

Justin Lutsky

H20GRAPHY

Inoe Vargas is a talented costume designer who often uses repurposed, recycled, and eco-conceptual materials to create his incredible pieces. On a crazy deadline to meet World Oceans Day, he created this masterpiece of a coral reef gown in only 4 days. The process began with a basic sketch. He then hand-crafted the shape of the gown using semi-rigid wire which served as the underlying structure on which to apply spray foam. Each bead of foam was also applied by hand over every inch of the gown. Once the physical gown was complete, the final step was for Inoe to apply a paint finish which truly brought the coral to life.

Photos by: Justin Lutsky | photo.justinlutsky.com | @jlutskyphoto Model: Designer: Hannah Mermaid Inoe Vargas @hannahmermaid @iaminoe

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H2OGRAPHY

While quite spectacular on land, this design was a beast to sink in the water. The foam material he used was so buoyant we had to use over 120 pounds of various sized lead weights attached strategically to sink the coral gown to the bottom of the pool. Luckily, Inoe designed the gown in pieces so that we could assemble the largest section on the bottom of the pool without Hannah inside.

Wearing a fragile coral headpiece, a huge shoulder collar, and a tight-fitting decorated bodice, Hannah swam down into the dress to complete the underwater art piece, becoming the ‘Queen of the Coralition.’

Normally Hannah and I work on breath hold for our photo shoots, but in this situation, we used a hookah system. A SCUBA tank next to the pool with a long hose and a regulator allowed Hannah to spend extra time getting into the gown without wasting precious oxygen.

When ready, she’d drop the regulator and go to work,

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transitioning from one pose to another while I captured the images. Because she wasn’t physically attached to the gown, it was easy and safe for her to ascend at any point and reconvene on the surface to review and discuss next steps. n Featured here are a selection of finished still images from the series. However, the final NFTs were animated to create purely digital works of art, and will soon be released for auction on the the Foundation platform: https://foundation.app/@jlutsky “When science and innovation meet cultural significance and local empowerment, we can create a communitydriven movement to rehabilitate our coral reef ecosystem.” ~ https://www.globalcoralition.org

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H2OGRAPHY

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Community

THE APP MAKING WAVES IN SENDING MONEY:

For any Filipino living abroad, the expectation of “sending help back home” is a familiar one. Whether in the form of hand-me-downs via balikbayan boxes as Christmas pasalubong, or literal cold hard cash as utang na loob, it is a cultural custom that has integrated itself into modern technology. As the latter is easier (and perhaps even preferred), there are numerous methods in which one can transfer funds between nations; physical brick and mortar banks, mall stands, wire transfers, and now phone apps.

by Naiia Lajoie

GLASS HALF FIL

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The process of sending money back to the motherland is an industry that has grown beyond Western Union. Tech startups are now entering game, and one such application is Sendwave. Founded in 2014, it has become a leading provider for money transfers to Africa and Asia. The app is the brainchild of Ivy League founders Drew Durbin and Lincoln Quick who graduated from Brown.

While Drew ran a non-governmental organization in Tanzania, he witnessed firsthand how difficult it could be sending money quickly and affordably. Wanting to facilitate the process for immigrants everywhere, Sendwave was developed.

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GLASS HALF FIL The app allows users to quickly and securely transfer funds from North America and Europe to numerous countries across Africa and Asia; tackling anything from family emergencies to simply buying a friend a beer. Most of the sending countries are fee-free, while the remainder has very competitive exchange rates.

“Our process is as easy as sending a text,” says Fil-Am Dan Santos, Market Launcher at Sendwave. “Mabilis at madali!”

Sendwave allows users to send money from the comfort of their own home. This comes as a welcomed relief given long lines and high fees are common in the remittance space. The service is fast, reliable, convenient, secure, and takes what can best be described as a localized approach in growing the access to their platform. Dan explains, “This is part of our greater mission of empowering immigrant communities.

This allows us to invest in the diaspora communities we choose to serve. We work with nonprofits, small businesses, community leaders, influencers, and more – all in an effort to grow our reach.”

Dan’s willingness and dedication in aiding expatriates stems from his own parents’ journey. Both OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) coming from Tondo and Quezon City, they embarked on their respective pursuits of the American Dream in the early 90s. His mother had

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taken out a $5000 loan from a relative to get placed with a nursing agency promising work in the United States, while his father gave up a career in order to take on odd jobs when Dan’s uncle joined the U.S. Navy. Such were the challenges they faced while adjusting to their new life in Chicago together, however they recognized that the potential opportunities afforded to their descendants in America would surpass those offered back home.

Recognizing his parents’ commitment and sacrifice, a passion for community empowerment was instilled in Dan from early on. Ever the appreciative and dutiful son, Dan succumbed to the familial pressures of pursuing stable income and a conventional life path. He studied accountancy at the University of Illinois. Finding the field mundane and lifeless, upon graduating he decided that he wanted to try something different.

Dan spent a year teaching English as a Fulbright recipient – a U.S. student program that provides grants for individually designed study/research projects for English Teaching Assistant Programs – in Malaysia.

He then continued his teaching journey in Las Vegas, where he worked for Teach For America, a nonprofit organization whose instructors teach for at least two years in low-income schools. Being away from his wellmeaning family and friends allowed him time for introspection.

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GLASS HALF FIL

Positing on what type of career he wanted, he eventually got involved in community organizing efforts for the 2020 election. From there he came across the position of Market Launcher at Sendwave in early 2021. “In my current role, I’ve found ways to combine my business and community organizing background, which I’ve really enjoyed,” Dan asserts. “My background and upbringing has instilled in me a commitment to serve and uplift immigrant communities, and I’m grateful to work for a company that is actively working to do that day in and day out.”

While Dan’s quest for self-discovery eventually culminated in employment at Sendwave, the path leading up to the position was not necessarily a clear one. In his previous corporate jobs, he often felt that he could not be himself. “Corporate work environments, especially at larger companies, can be very white dominant, and I felt the need to present a different version of myself to fit the mold,” he reveals. “Lately, there’s definitely been some progress in this realm across the country, and although there’s always work to be done, people are taking notice of the importance of building diverse and inclusive work forces.” Sendwave allows Dan to lead through his identity, rather than in spite of it. “I’ve found myself to be effective at building and sustaining partnerships within diaspora communities based on shared lived experiences.”

Sendwave is currently in the planning and research phases, with the intention of launching by the end of manilaupmagazine.com

August. Particularly excited for its launch within the Los Angeles market, Dan anticipates that the company’s localized approach to growth will allow the brand to invest back into the LA Fil-Am community. Through event and organization sponsorship, they want to take their time in immersing themselves fully into the community. In learning from it, they can then adapt the product to meet the community’s needs. “Nothing beats keeping money in people’s pockets,” Dan concludes.

“We want to make the process of sending money easier and more affordable for immigrants everywhere, thus improving financial access for Filipinos across the world.”

Preliminary reception of Sendwave has been positive thus far. With over 400,000 users and counting, in a few short years the app has gone from being a simple idea, to being well on its way of becoming one of the world’s leading money senders. In his initial research, Dan has found that people are most excited about its affordability and the convenience that it will be providing. For anyone interested in partnering or wanting to learn more, they can reach out to Dan directly at dan@sendwave.com and visit/follow the resources below.

Dan Santos’ personal Instagram: https://www.instagram. com/dcsantos9/ Sendwave company Instagram: https://www.instagram. com/sendwaveapp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sendwave/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/sendwaveapp Website: https://www.sendwave.com/our-story 47

Community

NGUYEN COFFEE SUPPLY

BRINGS VIETNAMESE COFFEE TO HOLLYWOOD Sahra Nguyen – Founder of Nguyen Coffee Supply, and featured guest on “The Drew Barrymore Show”.

A little history on Sahra Nguyen is necessary prior to getting into the interview with her. For those reading, you will come to realize what motivates a person coming from a refugee home, and what they have to endure in order to gain their own identity and brand. Also, the reader will appreciate the person as a filmmaker, activist, writer, and entrepreneur.

by ROBERT WOMACK

FROM HOLLYWOOD TO ASIA 48

Sahra’s journey has been like many others who grew up with parents who left their culture behind and had to learn a new language. It is a fact that foreign immigrants face hardships that naturalized citizens do not. Racism is just one example, but a big one to be sure. Also imagine if you will, learning English in school while your parents are proficient in another language. Couple this with being different from others, and the invisibility that comes with being less acknowledged. These hardships and handicaps can push youngsters to become more creative or drop out. For example, Sahra became immersed in artwork and was quite good at it. In her struggle to find her own identity, her education preference took her to both Asian American Studies and World Arts and Cultures. For those studies, Sahra was awarded a double degree from the University of California in Los Angeles, California (or simply UCLA). After she graduated, Sahra became involved with video mentoring at “Artists For Humanity”, as well as becoming the director for “Writing Success Program”, also at UCLA.

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From hollywood to asia From Los Angeles Sahra moved to Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York in 2012. It is here that Sahra began to spread her wings in film production. Obviously her earlier background in art, video prowess, and journalism were instrumental catalysts for her next phase. She filmed a web series called “Maker’s Lane” about local entrepreneurs, which served as a springboard into the NBC documentary series “Self-Starters”. Thereafter she went onto a five part award winning documentary regarding Cambodian refugees called Deported. Sahra identifies with and continues to be interested in all people’s basic human rights, no matter what color or national origin.

Sahra Nguyen did not stop at film production; she and others also created “Lucy’s Vietnamese Kitchen,” a fast casual restaurant in Bushwick, Brooklyn. This little restaurant was featured in publications like The New York Times, Time Out NY, Thrillist, and VICE. However, after much brainstorming, research, and development, Sahra decided to give 100% of her focus to a new business venture – the “Nguyen Coffee Supply” company. Sahra had previously seen coffee advertised as Vietnamese coffee, but in truth they were not in fact Vietnamese coffees.

Sahra traveled to Vietnam, where most of her extended family still lives, and formed a relationship with Vietnamese coffee growers in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. As it turns out, Vietnam is the second largest coffee producer in the world.

Unfortunately, a large amount of the production is turned into instant coffee so the consumer is unaware. On the other hand, another portion of the Vietnamese coffee is consumed

in Vietnam itself. Sahra realized that the world was missing out on the unique properties of this delicious coffee. So she learned how to import coffee and familiarized herself with the regulations involved with that process. She took a roasting class and began roasting Vietnamese coffee herself without investors at that point.

Robert D. Womack Interview with Sahra Nguyen RW: Where were you born and raised?

SN: Boston, Massachusetts.

RW: You graduated with a dual degree in Asian-American studies, World Arts and Cultures from the University of California, Los Angeles. What year was that?

SN: 2009.

RW: What made you decide to make a move from Los Angeles to Bushwick, Brooklyn?

SN: I’m an “east coast girl” at heart so I wanted to move back to the east coast, grow my creative career in New York City, and be close to my parents.

RW: You were involved with a number of film productions.

One of which was an award-wining documentary Deported.

What was the final outcome for those unfortunate Cambodian Refugees?

SN: Unfortunately, detention and deportation of the Southeast Asian community in the United States continues. Just recently, last month [March 2021] 33 Vietnamese immigrants and refugees were deported all at once to Vietnam. Deportation breaks up families. From the film Deported, one of the subjects in there did recently win the right to return – so there is hope. But the fight is still an uphill battle.

RW: You gave up filmmaking and journalism to go fully 100% in Nguyen Coffee Supply, importing and roasting. Was that a difficult decision since you enjoyed successful documentaries?

SN: Yes, actually – it was a difficult decision because I truly loved making documentaries and my identity has been shaped by that of storyteller and filmmaker for much longer than a coffee entrepreneur, so I was very attached to my life as a filmmaker and all the dreams I had with it. However, at the same time, building Nguyen Coffee Supply gives me so much pride and joy, so I feel grateful for the opportunity to do something I love so much. I still feel like I am telling stories and bringing visibility to the underrepresented, but through a different platform.

RW: You and others started a Vietnamese Kitchen called “Lucy’s” in Bushwick, Brooklyn. It must have been somewhat successful as it was featured in the New York Times and other publications. Is it still in operation or did the Covid-19 pandemic close it down?

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Community SN: After I left the restaurant business, it did shut down for a while. It appears to be reopened now.

RW: I have learned that Vietnam is the second largest producer of coffee in the world. Sadly, I had not ever heard about it until I saw a small blog regarding your coffee. Why did you get interested in importing the beans and roasting it yourself?

SN: As a casual coffee drinker, I fell into the category of someone who drinks coffee everyday but didn’t own a scale or know anything about extraction science. As a consumer, I felt that the coffee industry promoted an elitist culture rooted in mastery, and it didn’t resonate with me. At Nguyen Coffee Supply, we promote an inclusive coffee culture rooted in personalization, where everyone’s coffee experience is valid.

You like bodega coffee, great! You like using scales to measure coffee, great! There’s no right or wrong, or better or worse – simply, good coffee.

More specifically, I noticed that no one was offering a fresh roasted premium Vietnamese coffee bean. As someone who has enjoyed Vietnamese coffee in Vietnam throughout my entire life (during visits to see family abroad), I knew how delicious and amazing Vietnamese coffee was. I couldn’t find a Vietnamese coffee bean among the 30-40 brands in any supermarket here in New York City, so that’s when I decided to start importing and roasting myself – and Nguyen Coffee Supply was born.

RW: I know you visited Vietnam to see and speak to those you were interested in forming a partnership with to import green coffee. Why not import already roasted Vietnamese Coffee?

SN: I wanted to change the narrative that Vietnamese coffee is “cheap” or “not good,” and I knew more people would believe me if I could show them what a fresh roasted premium Vietnamese coffee bean is – roasted right here in Brooklyn, New York. There’s nothing wrong with importing already roasted coffee from Vietnam, but the specialty coffee culture here is focused on locally roasted coffee.

RW: The Vietnamese coffee is grown in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. From my understanding, coffee plants were brought into Vietnam initially by French missionaries in the mid-1800s. However, the Vietnam War had a significant impact on production. No doubt, the major affected issue 50

was in terms of manpower. Can you tell the readers where the Central Highlands are and what major city they are close to? I believe it is important so we can come to grips with the logistics of the geographical area for distribution.

SN: The climate and elevation within the Central Highlands makes it ideal for growing coffee. However, all coffee must be taken to the port at Ho Chi Minh City for exporting, which is a 6 hour drive. So it’s quite a journey.

RW: You must have tasted Vietnamese coffee in your travels there, did you really like it and the brewing with the “Phin” rather than another brewing method?

SN: Throughout my life I’ve visited Vietnam often with my family, so I’ve always loved the Phin brewing method and Vietnamese coffee culture. When in Vietnam, I always prefer the Phin so I can take my time, sink into conversation and enjoy the sights and sounds of the bustling streets.

RW: Incidentally, who makes the Phin for you that you sell?

SN: We work with a woman owned and operated Phin factory in Vietnam.

RW: I have ordered your coffee and have brewed a cup using the Phin. I really enjoy the “Vietnamese Egg Coffee” with sweetened condensed milk. It is in my knowledge base that the original egg coffee came from Hanoi.

Did you get the recipe from Vietnam coffee shops in Hanoi?

SN: We were definitely inspired by Vietnamese egg coffee in Vietnam. We developed a simple recipe after trying several.

RW: That leads me to ask where did you learn how to roast coffee – that is an art in itself isn’t it?

SN: Yes, roasting is an art and science in itself. I first learned how to roast coffee on the Probat. I took a roasting class here in Brooklyn to gain the knowledge and skills. Then, it’s all about practice!

RW: Besides the learning curve associated with importing coffee, roasting it, packaging, and shipping, what has been you biggest challenge?

SN: I feel the biggest challenge to date is learning how to balance growth with stability. We are in hyper growth mode, manilaupmagazine.com

From hollywood to asia

so things are changing constantly and we have to be very diligent about every step forward.

RW: Thank you Sahra for indulging me with questions, feel free to add what you wish here.

RW: I read somewhere you have investors now, is that demanding in so far as for accountability?

SN: Last week, we celebrated our first nationally televised appearance on “The Drew Barrymore Show”. On the morning of filming, I headed towards the studio in Manhattan. I received a notification about a 65-year-old Filipina woman who was walking to church when she was attacked and kicked in the head repeatedly and told, “You don’t belong here.” This happened by Times Square, about 10 blocks from the TV studio. My heart sank.

SN: No, not at all. All of our investors are super supportive and not demanding. It’s very important to choose the right investors. It’s not just about money. It’s about personality, values, and mission alignment.

RW: Have you ever worked as a Barista?

SN: No, never. I’ve only worked in restaurants as a server and hostess.

RW: Sahra, have you considered opening coffee shops like those of Starbucks and others?

SN: Possibly in the future. For now, we are focused on importing and roasting, and being a source for individuals and businesses to have access to delicious Vietnamese coffee.

RW: I saw you featured on “The Drew Barrymore Show”.

How exciting was that for you to be on the show of a famous actor icon like Drew, and were you nervous? Incidentally, you looked calm and collected.

SN: This was a totally surreal experience, I’m still a little speechless about it. I grew up watching Drew Barrymore and my family (especially parents), absolutely love her! She’s an absolute icon, and also she is totally sweet and down to earth in real life. I was definitely nervous!

RW: How did you manage to get on her show anyway, I am sure Drew is picky on who is on?

SN: They reached out to me directly!

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We are still reeling from the Atlanta spa shootings on March 6th and the violent attacks against Asian elders happening right here in our home, New York City. We are blessed with the opportunity for moments of joy and celebration such as “The Drew Barrymore Show” milestone. All in all, our experiences as Asian Americans are not binary. Our collective experience in the path for healing and justice is not linear.

This month, and every month, we’re focusing on sustainability.

Not just environmental and agricultural sustainability within the context of coffee, but also personal, social, and cultural sustainability within the context of community empowerment.

How can we take care of ourselves and each other to support our collective wellbeing far into the future? For starters, I’d like to propose some reflection and reading about the Asian American experience.

RW: I would like to include links to the Nguyen Coffee Supply, videos using the Phin, and recipes if I may. Feel free to tell me of other links like if there is a rerun of “The Drew Barrymore Show”. n https://nguyencoffeesupply.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nguyencoffeesupply/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-D25jghhFQ

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community

by Jhoanna B. de Guzman

PROVERBS 31 WOMAN 52

BECOMING A PROVERBS 31 WOMAN manilaupmagazine.com

PROVERBS 31 WOMAN “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” – Proverbs 31:29 Oftentimes, we identify the “Proverbs 31 Woman” to the traditional notion that woman should be “perfect”. In truth however, we know that no one’s ever going to be.

Thus, we women just try to wing it and choose to move on.

Now more than ever, a lot of females associate their value by what they do, not by who they are. However, being a “good woman” or a “Proverbs 31 woman” is not about what we do; it does not mean that we need to strive to be excellent at all things. It’s about the heart, it’s about one’s attitude. A lot of us value accomplishments and not character. We tend to aim for the wrong things and that is where we are mistaken. So how can we fix it? Who is this “Proverbs 31 Woman” and how can we become one?

1. She’s embracing God’s grace and bearing God’s image – She’s not just about fulfilling all of her dreams, but she’s fulfilling God’s calling in her life.

It’s not about achievements or accomplishments to her, but it’s about having the right virtue and character. By embracing God’s grace, this woman can carry herself well, she knows her value and she knows deep down that it is not her actions that determine her worth.

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2. She’s pursuing God – She pursues God and as a result, good virtues naturally blossom from her.

She does not please anybody, but she pleases God. And by pleasing God, her actions are guided. She is not ruled by her emotions, she is courageous, she has grace under pressure, has self-control, does not gossip, she’s meek. And through constantly praying and knowing God, she knows how to behave well, she knows when to speak and when to remain silent, she makes wise choices and her choices are based on wisdom not emotion.

3. She’s a blessing to other people - She is an asset, she enhances other people’s lives, builds them up, she’s trustworthy, encouraging other people, and she’s consistent at what she does day in and day out. She’s eager to work and not lazy, she does her work with joy, is resourceful, is self-motivated, she utilizes what she acquires, is a good steward, she reaches out to those in need, always thinking ahead and having plans. She adds wealth and she uses her ability to do good.

Being a Proverbs 31 Woman is all about “becoming”. It is not a to-do list to follow, nor is it a destination one will come upon – it is a journey. And as long as we pray, take initiative, and keep all of these steps at heart, then surely we can become one. n

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community Luis Cocoy Cordoba, Gela Cornelissen, Michaela Pfeiffe, Marissa Fenton, Sonny Tanchanco, Jinky Rabano

A NEW NORMAL WITH OLD FRIENDS: CELEBRATING THE BIRTHDAY OF SOCIALITE AND CEO MS. BECKY GARCIA

by Joy FONG

METRO SCENE

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Photos by Lorna Llanes

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METRO SCENE Marissa Fenton, Cory Quirino, Luis Cocoy Cordoba, Atty. Manette Agbayani

Luis Cocoy Cordoba, Becky Garcia

The vivacious, social columnist and CEO of VONOTEC Inc. Ms. Becky Garcia celebrated her birthday this year in a different fashion. Due to the pandemic that swept the whole world, what would have been numerous big parties had to be commemorated with an intimate but still classy and elegant party. For the affair, the affable & excellent interior designer Cocoy Cordoba hosted the event in his magnificent house in Ayala Alabang.

It started with a sit down dinner for very few chosen closest friends; Ambassador Victor Garcia with his stylish wife Connie, Murano’s Marcoroberto Ascione & fiancée Olah Gray Braddy, Atty. Manette Agbayani, Cory Quirino, Agile Zamora, & Gela Cornilessen to name a few.

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community Agile Zamora, Becky Garcia, Marissa Fenton, Gela Cornellisen

Dr. George Sarakinis, Joy Fong, Connie & Amb. Vic Garcia

Gela Cornelissen, Joy Fong, Becky Garcia, Cory Quirino, Marissa Fenton, Jinky Rabana

The gracious host gave the guests a tour of his well appointed residence, evoking admiration for his extensive art collection. The points of conversation that night centered on his newly acquired Murano beaded paintings from artist Marcoroberto Ascione himself.

The 10pm curfew didn’t deter the guests from making the most of the limited time with singing & dancing to cap the celebration.

To my good friend Ms. Becky, Happy Birthday and wishing you love, good health and prosperity! n

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METRO SCENE

A GRACIOUS CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATES! By: Joy Fong Photos by: Lorna Llanes

Dr. Eric Reyes Buhain

Dr. Roselie Licup

Dr. Farah Acierto

Dr. Anthony Jawod

Dr. Josephine Gupta

Dr. Efren Navarroza

The Brethren Evangelical School of Theology has recently made two conferment rites this year in partnership with Cambridge Training School of Britain London. The first conferment was done at the Kalipayan Resort Hotel in Dasmarinas, Cavite on February 20, 2021. It was headed by the late Bishop Ariel Coleto. It was a solemn ceremony attended by 10 awardees. The awardees during this rite were Engr. Ann Marie Morales, Engr. Joel Limpengco, Engr. Efren Navarroza, Arch.

Anthony Jawod, school directress owner Farah Acierto, and businesswoman Rose Santiago.

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The second batch was held at the South Forbes Golf and country club in Silang, Cavite recently, which was spearheaded by Doctor Josephine Gupta of Best International. She was assisted by Arch. Klump, and society member Dr. Maria Rosa Bing Carrion – who stunned the awardees with her inspiring speech about “Maximizing your Potentials and Upgrading your Credentials”. The awardees on that conferment were Olympian swimmer Eric Buhain, businessmen/ women Jemelene Qui, Maggie Chavez, Tenambhat Krishnamurthy Ramesh, Renalyn David, Engr.

Maximillian Quintos, Teresita Tumangan, and Lorna Bautista.

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community

Dr. Ma. Rosa Bing Nieva Carrion

Dr. Joel Limpengco

Dr. Lorna Patriarca

Dr. Maggie Chavez

Dr. Teresita Tumangan

Dr. Renalyn David

Dr. Maximillan Quintos

Dr. Jemelene Qui

The Honoris Causa is given to deserving individuals who possess the character of a true professional. They must embody their well-being, as their character is taken into consideration by the board of directors of BEST INTL, a religious institution under the GOD’S LOVING CARE INTL CHURCH INC. A few words from founder Bishop Ariel Coleto: “REPUTATION IS DIFFERENT FROM CHARACTER. REPUTATION IS ALL ABOUT WHAT PEOPLE SEE IN YOU BUT WITH CHARACTER, IT IS WHAT GOD SEE IN YOU EVEN WHEN NO ONE IS LOOKING AT YOU.” Getting your doctorate through Honoris Causa is indeed a milestone for all of the awardees, as it gives them the prestige of simply being nominated – which is now a title that each one carries on with their names. n

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SUGAR QUEEn

LIFE IN MELBOURNE

By Samantha Goh

Melbourne is the most liveable city in the world. This was determined in a study by The Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Global Liveability Index. Melbourne was ranked number 1 for seven years in a row, from 2011 to 2017. Vienna is currently number one, followed closely by Melbourne by just a 0.7 index margin. Many families have since migrated to Melbourne because of its highly-ranked education and healthcare the city has to offer. The clean crisp air is also one of the reasons I love Melbourne; a major city in the state of Victoria, Australia.

SAMANTHA GOH

SUGAR QUEEN manilaupmagazine.com

13 months ago I moved from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Melbourne – excited to start a new life with my family there. Life was turning out great, until the pandemic crisis hit due to the coronavirus. The last article I wrote was about the beginning stages of lockdown restrictions in both Malaysia and Australia. Today I am in the third lockdown of the state of Victoria. I must say, Victoria had the toughest period of lockdown compared to other cities and states. Brisbane in Queensland and Sydney in New South Wales had a much shorter period of lockdown. Victorians had a total of 6 months of lockdown, and my main job became homeschooling my kids – which was tough. However, my heart goes out to all of those who lost their dear ones to the pandemic. A total of 820 deaths was recorded in Victoria due to Covid-19.

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COMMUNITY

Last November I thought I had seen the last of lockdown. I had the chance to enjoy the Black Friday sales outside in the shops. Life was slowly getting back to the new normal; where social distancing and the wearing of masks are compulsory. December 2020 was the start of school holidays and I had the chance to take my children to the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in Chadstone, Victoria. Situated just 25 minutes from Melbourne, LEGOLAND is also positioned inside the fashion capital of the Chadstone Shopping Mall. It is the biggest shopping centre in Australia and the Southern Hemisphere. LEGOLAND is the ultimate indoor LEGO playground; with 10 LEGO build-and-play zones, cinema, rides, and much more. Kids also enjoyed the best Christmas they could in a Covid environment, that is no sitting on Santa’s lap was permitted, but photography was possible. We stayed in a holiday beach house during the Christmas break and had the most peaceful New Year’s Eve with no crowds and fireworks.

It’s summertime in Australia, so there are plenty of sports activities. One popular sport is tennis, and Melbourne is the host of the grand slam tennis tournament. The Australian Open, founded in 1905, was the talk of Melbourne town every summer. It traditionally takes place during the last fortnight in the

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month of January. This year, the dates were moved to February 8 to 21. International tennis players started to fly into Australia to prepare for their matches. Of course like every overseas passenger coming into the country, the players had to be in hotel quarantine for 14 days.

I was really excited to see famous players like Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Naomi Osaka, just to name a few. Only a limited 30,000 spectators per day were allowed to enter Melbourne Park to enjoy watching their favourite tennis players in action. I even planned to bring my children to watch live tennis and cheer for Novak until this shocking third lockdown. The sudden announcement of the lockdown happened on the fifth day of Australian Open.

The reason behind this was due to an outbreak in a hotel quarantine. A returned citizen who had to use a nebuliser to breathe in oxygen unknowingly caused it. In plain terms, he had Covid-19 and it became airborne and escaped through the hotel air vents, and transmitted to other hotel staff and guests, including a 3-year-old boy. The virus is believed to be the UK strain of coronavirus. That’s why the state’s premier, Daniel Andrews, had to call for this sudden lockdown. The timing was terrible for many business owners, given the major events of the Australian Open, Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day. Weddings and public gatherings had to be cancelled. manilaupmagazine.com

SUGAR QUEEn

On the bright side, the Australian Open will continue without crowds. However, children are back home doing remote online learning. Victorians cannot leave their homes except for 4 reasons. Firstly, for essential workers who travel to work. Secondly, unless you have a doctor’s appointment or require care-giving, you cannot leave the house. The third reason is you can go shopping for groceries only within 5 km radius of your home. Lastly, you can exercise outside for only 2 hours. This also means that all Chinese New Year parties and gatherings with my family and friends have to be cancelled. These rules are tough, but Victorians have experienced it for more than 6 months in 2020.

The federal government, led by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, has been planning for the vaccination

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program and hope to vaccinate the entire population by October 2021. Vaccinations will start as early as March 2021 for the elderly and frontline workers. Hopefully it will lead to our lockdown ending sooner. As much as I hate to be in the situation I am right now, staying home is the answer to staying safe and secure. I believe that the Australian government will do their best to carry out the vaccination program and protect all residents.

I am hopeful that the rest of 2021 will begin to open up and more events will be able to take place. The Australian Grand Prix 2021 that was held in Melbourne every March changed the date to the 21st November. I will be on the lookout for beauty pageants and fashion shows. For now, I can at least enjoy watching tennis live on TV from home. Who will be in the finals? Who will win? n

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PAGEANT

Photo by Eugene Polyak

MRS. RUSSIAN AMERICA 2021 On April 29, the Mrs. Russian America competition was held in Los Angeles and its producer, Gennady Kotlyarchuk, discusses the post-pandemic preparation necessary to execute the event.

“It was a very ambitious project with a budget of over $100,000” she reveals, with the beauty pageant taking place in one of Hollywood’s most beautiful halls, and offering the first opportunity for attendees to adorn their formal attire once restrictions were partially lifted. The competition also served as a hybrid fashion show, given none were held during the lockdown, and so designers such as Jessica Angel, Mr. Amo & Ms. Alice Aloy presented their new evening dress collections.

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Contestants hailed from Miami, Arizona, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. A branch of the competition was held at the Miami-based beauty salon X Beauty By Hanna, owned by the singer of the same name. Salon Manager Victoria Winter, along with staff members Anton and Alexey Borsalo, assisted in the casting process and provided cosmetic procedures for the participants.

Gennady wanted to showcase married Russian women through the competition; young mothers below the age of 45 who may not have the opportunity to compete in a pageant presented to them. A large team of professionals was assembled to assist with the 9-month

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FEATURE preparation process. The standards at the castings were as high as the lavish ambiance, with Ferraris parked at venue entrances, photo shoots taking place in homes worth more than 10 million dollars in Beverly Hills, photographed by the famous Igor Malakhov. Miami organizer Sasha Polina treated the participants like queens; attending high-end restaurants, given honors, and transported in Bentley and Rolls Royce convertibles.

Eduard Orlov even offered a day aboard his yacht to the contestants, along with rides in his famous DEVOLRO cars.

In terms of the show itself, Director Elena VekhbaKreis – who herself has won numerous belly dancing competitions – was also a designer this year, dressing the women up in her outfits. The Miami-based participants were taught choreography by Ekaterina Bobrysheva, a former performer and teacher at the Todes Ballet Show.

All of the participants wore designer clothing worth several thousand per dress, by brands such as Jessica Angel and Pol Atteu. A catwalk with a mirrored floor was paired with a large LED screen, creating the illusion that the women were stepping out of a fiery backdrop.

Photo by James Giovanni Pan

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PAGEANT

With Gennady’s reality show about Hollywood airing on TV, it was easy for her to acquire host Alexei Vorobyov for the event. While all of the contestants were beautiful, the winner of the Mrs. Russian America 2021 was Ekaterina Koltunova, and taking 2nd place was Anna Petrovich with Vitalina Zobenko placing 3rd, as well as an Audience Award being presented to Amelia Shikulova. The event’s advertising spanned newspapers, flyers, posters, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. A live broadcast was presented by Mikhail Avenson during the show, allowing relatives of the competitors outside of America to tune in. The two presenters of the live broadcast, Irina Bosin and Anna Shevchenko, conducted the coverage in Russian and English.

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The audience and the jury included celebrities like members from the Scorpions, Pink Floyd, actor Eric Roberts, Keri Hiroyuki-Tagawa, Cynthia Rothrock, Don Dragon, Ken Davityan, Jiu Jitsu legend Regan Machado, Oliver Gruner, Tom Lister, bodybuilder Ike Ketcher, to name a few. As far as reputable sponsors are concerned, the Craig Shelly brand presented the winners with Swiss watches and jewelry, while BANDI FOODS and Importers Direct Wholesale Company provided the food and alcohol for the competition respectively. Pasticcino Di Irucci donated cake certificates, and the main media sponsor was the MUSIC BOX GOLD TV channel.

Mrs. Russian America 2022 along with 2 other projects are already in the works. For anyone interested in collaborating with Gennady for their next event, she can be reached at 510-484-5560. And for anyone wanting to take or be a part of forthcoming pageants, more details can be found on the website http://mrsrussianamerica.com/. n manilaupmagazine.com

FEATURE

Photo by James Jaime Lim

Photo by Mark Mendez

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Photo by James Jaime Lim

Photo by James Jaime Lim

Photo by Gennadiy Kotlyarchuk

Photo by Mark Mendez

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Fashion

JOANNA BOROV

ON BRAVING THE PANDEMIC

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FEATURE Joanna Borov is a Polish-born model who is based in Los Angeles, loving the warmer weather and sunlight Southern California has to offer. She has modeled for publications such as Marie Claire, British Vogue, and Maxim. She has walked runway shows such as Paris Fashion Week, London Fashion Week, and Los Angeles Fashion Week. Joanna can be described as passionate about what she does in the fashion industry. She admits that she has faced difficulties along the way but she has always viewed the cup as being half-full, demonstrating an unwavering view of optimism. In her spare time, she has participated in charities such as “Babes in Toyland”, which serves children in underprivileged communities during Christmastime. She was taught by her family to help others, and modelling has provided a platform that allows her to do so.

2020 was a difficult year for many, especially given the global pandemic. It was a time full of tragedies; a time

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in which Joanna feels empathy. She was still dealing with the effects of an injury – she had a serious hip labral tear in 2019 – and she could not go to the gym since all facilities were on lockdown at the time. Due to these limitations, her injury began to feel worse. She was unable to de-stress, for exercise was her main way of diffusing tension and relaxing. Jobs were also hard at times due to safety measures and concerns. In the midst of all of this, Joanna wanted to focus on the positive. She changed her lifestyle completely by going on a healthier diet, doing intermittent fasting in the mornings, besides eating more protein. She also worked out more at home, doing mindfulness-related activities and practicing more yoga. She went walking, hiking, and would go swimming as alternative workouts, always finding activities that were safe yet efficient. Rearranging her physical activities and working on mindfulness is what ultimately helped her with her hip injury, and she was able to find more physical balance in her life.

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Fashion

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FEATURE

2020 was a challenging year for many including Joanna, but she still never gave up on her dreams.

As of 2021, she has her sights set on Swim Week, which takes place in Miami in July. It showcases the brilliant, creative designs by an array of designers, promoting new fashion collections for the summer. For October of this year, she has been announced as a special guest and ambassador at the Orion Star Awards in Dubai. This event awards people who have accomplished so much in the fashion industry and in the art world. Joanna feels honored to be a part of this event, and looks up to many trailblazers who will also be in the awards ceremony.

Overall, Joanna’s journey in modeling has been a fascinating experience full of opportunities that enable her to help others. Because of her experiences in fitness and in dealing with health conditions, she is writing a book full of tips, recipes, and lifestyle programs that others can follow.

She can be reached through her Instagram profile @joannaborov. n

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FASHION

METROPOLITAN FASHION WEEK

Designer - David Tupaz

The Sonoran Palm Springs hosted “LUNAR” Art, Fashion, Music & Wine, A Socially Distant COVID Regulated Event. The evening featured a one-of-a-kind fashion masterpiece presentation highlighting acclaimed celebrity fashion designer David Tupaz and international fashion designers Erick Bendaña of Nicaragua, costume designers Ricardo Soltero and Inoe Vargas of Mexico and KICKA Custom Design of Sweden and Art installation by ArtFX Palm Springs @artfxpalmsprings.

This edition of “LUNAR” is sponsored by Kelsey Timberlake Events. “LUNAR” is produced and directed by Eduardo Khawam, President & Founder of Metropolitan Fashion Week & RunwayFX. A portion of the evening’s profits benefited local artists in financial distress. “LUNAR” will kick-off a series of monthly occasions planned for full moon weekends that will spotlight fashion and artists from around the world.n

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FEATURE Photos: James Giovanni Pan

by Lumiere

Designer - David Tupaz

Designer - Kicka Custom

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Designer - Inoe Vargas

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FASHION Photos: James Giovanni Pan

by Lumiere

Eduardo Khawam - President of MFW & RunwayFX

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FEATURE Photos by: Jaime Lim Liquid Star Photography

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FASHION

Designer: Erick Bendana Photos by: Celia Abuel

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Feature

A CITY OF CHAMPIONS: NOT JUST THE LAKERS AND DODGERS, BUT PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSIONER JESSICA CALOZA HONORED BY PABA By: Naiia Lajoie

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COMMUNITY

On April 7th, the Los Angeles Board of Public Works Commissioner Jessica Caloza received the 2021 Community Champion Award from PABA (the Philippine American Bar Association). The LA-based, oldest and largest association of Filipino American attorneys in the U.S. typically presents the Community Champion Award to an individual whose work inspires, encourages, and supports the local Fil-Am community.

Naturally, Commissioner Caloza was an obvious choice, with the event taking place online during the 34th Annual Installation and Virtual Awards Gala.

Upon receipt of the honor Commissioner Caloza said, “I’d like to thank PABA for this special recognition and for all of its work to support the Asian and Filipino American community.” She continued, “My hope is to inspire others to serve, give back, and help, because together I know we can make a positive difference. This pandemic has shown us that we need to uplift each other and support our most vulnerable, including the Asian American community given the rise in attacks and violence. Each of us has a role to play in being community champions.”

Jessica Caloza became the first Filipina American to serve on the Board of Public Works when she was appointed by Mayor Eric Garcetti and confirmed by the City Council in March of 2019. Despite having only been on the Board for a brief time, she has conceptualized

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the City of Los Angeles’ inaugural Filipino American History Month Lighting Ceremony. In keeping with the theme of lighting, she has also shone a light on Historic Filipinotown through initiatives such as the Eastern Gateway project, in collaboration with Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell and artist Eliseo Art Silva. Not to mention she has promoted the contributions of Asian and Fil-Ams to LA. Hence the recognition with this award; for her leadership and for overseeing the City of LA’s most critical infrastructure projects and providing core services. This was all done in an effort to improve the quality of life for more than four million residents.

Her efforts to better the community did not cease even in the midst of a pandemic. During the Covid crisis, she hosted the first-ever “Accessing L.A.” webinar, a virtual series ensuring local and small businesses continued to receive critical business resources. In keeping with safety measures, the accessible event took place online in lieu of the annual in-person networking event. Commissioner Caloza also worked with PABA during the 2020 election, launching a non-partisan voter hotline. This was done in an effort to provide assistance and vital information to ensure community members’ voices were heard. With the aforementioned efforts, it is evident that she has demonstrated her level of commitment to community building, as well as advancing equity and inclusion for the Fil-Am community, along with all underrepresented groups.

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Feature

“I couldn’t think of a more deserving recipient for this year’s Community Champion,” said PABA President Abigail Zelenski. “I’ve had the honor of witnessing Jessica firsthand in her outreach to, and collaboration with, Filipino American and greater Asian American communities in terms of representation, rights, and services to these often-overlooked populations.”

He went on, “With the unfortunate rise in anti-AAPI hate, Jessica has taken a prominent leadership role in bringing people together to come up with proactive ways we can combat hate incidents and hate crimes. Jessica truly embodies what it means to act as a public servant. We thank Jessica for all of her community work, and PABA looks forward to continuing to work with her on projects that help the Filipino American community.”

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COMMUNITY With LA County being home to the largest population of Filipinos outside of the Philippines – over half a million Fil-Ams – many Filipinos are making meaningful contributions to the diaspora as public servants. This representation is evident, being at the highest levels throughout the City of Los Angeles. A large number of said employees have been serving as essential workers during Coronavirus times, keeping core services running as leadership battled and navigated the Covid-19 pandemic. The Fil-Am employees in the Department of Public Works, and throughout Los Angeles, are benefitting all Angelenos through their impactful contributions. They continue to do so by promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, in addition to inspiring the next generation of public servants.

With attacks on the AAPI community continuing into Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, in late May city leaders and local artists launched LA for All. A multilingual PSA campaign led by the Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department (LA Civil Rights), Department of Public Works (DPW), and Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA), the catalyst for the launch was to facilitate sharing resources for reporting hate crimes and hate incidents, in addition to celebrating diversity, belonging, and inclusion within the city.

“This campaign is about protecting and safeguarding the values Los Angeles holds most dear: belonging, inclusion, and community. Everyone has a role to play in ensuring our family, friends, and neighbors feel

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safe in our beautiful City,” said Jessica Caloza, who is also Co-Chair of the APAHM Committee. “Given the diversity of L.A., this also means making sure our resources are available in multiple languages.” She continued, “As an immigrant whose first language is not English, I feel so proud knowing LA for All will be accessible in over 12 languages and will reach our most vulnerable communities.” Such is the driving force behind Commissioner Caloza’s desire to help others; having been personally affected and witnessing others continuously being affected by discrimination, she seeks to rectify the situation for all.

For those who are not familiar with the LA City Department of Public Works, it consists of five bureaus: Contract Administration, Engineering, Sanitation, Street Lighting, and Street Services, as well as the Offices of the Board, including the Offices of Community Beautification, Filming and Petroleum Administration.

Over 5,500 employees are responsible for the design, construction, renovation and operation of public projects ranging from bridges to wastewater treatment plants and libraries; curbside collection and graffiti removal; and maintenance of streets, sidewalks, sewers, streetlights and street trees. The Department is governed by the Board of Public Works (BPW), a five-member full-time executive team – with includes Commissioner Jessica Caloza – that is committed to delivering projects and programs that enhance quality of life, economic growth, public health and the environment to all Angelenos. For more information, please visit http:// bpw.lacity.org. n

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FEATURE

A HUMBLE MAN WITH A GLOBAL LEGACY IMPACT

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is...What are you doing for others”?

-Martin Luther King, Jr.

I’ve met many leaders from different sectors and enterprises. It’s always such an honor that, when in that path, you meet someone who embodies authentic and transparent leadership – especially when they come from a heart-centered space with a clear vision and mission. In this case, a legacy impact on a global scale.

Afternoon chat with CONSUL GENERAL EDGAR BARRAIRO BADAJOS

Meet Consul General Edgar Barrairo Badajos, who assumed his post as Consul General of the Philippines Consulate in Los Angeles in April 2021. We talked about life and service. We talked about the Bayanihan Spirit, and we talked about what matters.

By: Melody Garcia

In a world of saturated leadership titles, here is one of the humblest leaders with a presence felt, seen, and heard that is deeply filled with wisdoms beyond academia and honors beyond goal achievements. Let’s dive in: MG: Tell me a little bit about your life that led you to the path of becoming a Consulate General? That deepest adversity that placed you in this journey of impact.

ConGen: OK well let’s begin with the personal Life. The main driving force behind motivation for me to really try and succeed in everything that I do in life is my humble beginnings.

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COMMUNITY I came from a family with modest means, and growing up there was always a shortage of practically everything around the household; shortage of food, clothing and materials for school.

So that was really the motivation for this humble representation to succeed, and therefore I thought that early on the only key for me to succeed in life is through education. And that’s what I did.

That’s the number one adversity to overcome; all these shortages, and then growing up it was my brothers who really put me through college. They were overseas Filipino workers.

MG: What was that first epiphany that you had that made you want to go into the world of diplomacy?

ConGen: My calling in the foreign service was impacted by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago who was the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations committee. I got my first taste of how to work on Foreign Relations matters, and besides that I was also still actively interacting with my former classmates back in the UP College of law, because I have a lot of background and many of my classmates then were already in the Foreign Service. They would talk to me about their foreign postings; how interesting it is to see the world for free, and to meet other people, talk to foreign officials. It was quite the experience for me to meet with Kings, Queens and Prime Ministers, and Presidents.

I also joined the Philippine Foreign Service because it sounded and it looked very interesting. It looks like this is an area where you can do a lot of things, not just to help yourself professionally, but also to help other people and impact communities in a much bigger scale.

MG: How do you define the “bayanihan” spirit and how has this shaped up your platform?

ConGen: I would define “bayanihan” no differently from how it is defined by our fellow Filipinos. It’s an idea that inspires and motivates, and it is the action itself as an idea that inspires. It has been with me as a motivating and driving force whenever, wherever I’m assigned. So it motivates me to really work with others regardless of the background of the other people I am interacting with. Wherever they come from, regardless of the social strata they’re coming from, there’s this driving force that enables us to be able to work together and deliver a common public good for the benefit of the greater members of our community. Your ability to change the community is enhanced tremendously working with the community.

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MG: What are your three main priorities at the moment?

ConGen: First is to basically ensure the way we deliver basic consular services, and you’re talking with passport applications to US citizenship and other services that are going to be effective, responsive, and timely.

Second is our physical space. Our physical premises – to make it really presentable so that it speaks of our culture, and that it also reflects other services such as economic diplomacy and cultural diplomacy. So we have to have a balanced approach in performing our mandates, so we have – while we are promoting the way we deliver consular services – we have to make sure that we are also doing something good, if not well, in the way we promote the economic interests of our country.

Third: I think we need to really put forward the message that FilipinoAmericans have been in the United States for hundreds of years already; contributing to this great society.

To educate and influence the value of who we are and also remove the stigmas.

In each country I’ve held diplomatic positions over, whether it was in Saudi Arabia, Canada, Thailand or USA, there’s a different notion and expectation along with behaviors I have observed in all my tenure. That comes along with the type of work or environment each place brings.

Overall, is to truly bring forward the importance and contributions we Filipinos have had.

MG: Who is your role model, why, and what behaviors or belief system have you emulated from this person?

ConGen: This question is very personal to me because there’s no other role model that I can think of, other than my mother.

We were orphaned early when our father died. We were six, and [my] elder brothers were still in college. My mother was left to care for all of us. She had to do anything and everything that you can do to feed all six boys in the family, and she was successful.

I would not be talking to you now, and my brothers would have not been able to go to Saudi Arabia to work there if she was not successful.

I saw [in] her a really strong determination to succeed and to overcome obstacles. [Those] that you are facing in life. I see in her a strong belief, and also faith. She’s an example of resilience.

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MG: What is your legacy impact message to all Filipinos around the world and message to today’s young Filipinos?

ConGen: My answer to that – which is related to my transparency initiative – is that trust is earned, it’s not given. If you have already earned the trust of the people you’re working with and for in the community, then they will willingly work with you. Everyone can fill their significance and claim the triumph and their victory as their own also, because they were part of the equation.

ConGen: My message to young Filipinos is to not be focused on being materialistic, but there are some values in life that are more important than your gadgets. Strive in the greater impact, and when you’re able to, help other people and change the community for the better. I see a strong desire on the part of our youth here to explore and discover their Filipino heritage. I think they’re looking for the opportunities to do that. What I’d like to do is for us to have a dialogue so that you can tell me how you think you can best start exploring the beauty of our Filipino culture. Then we can devise the program together so that the program that we come up with is something that you can have ownership of right.

It’s not something that I imposed from the top because I’m the consul general.

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CLOSING MG: I believe that you embody the heart and spirit of servant leadership because you are very much aware of the process, and I love the transparency initiative which is again how we get everybody engaged in driving in solutions.

ConGen: I have nothing to ask; I have only admiration for you guys or what you’re doing because through your programs, we are able to convey messages like this that is so unique from what they usually hear from mainstream media. Right now, this is one way of reaching out to the younger Filipino generation.

MG: I have two goals in the media space number. One is to start bridging those gaps because the label “fake news” unfortunately took a very toxic view on media, and we want to stand out as the “truth in media”. Second is to share how a life that became unscripted led to a life of significant legacy impact.

ConGen: I really enjoyed this interview and keep doing what you’re doing. n

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ARTist

FASGI Director Yey Coronel-Alcid, Tina Taruc, Consul General Edgar Badajos and Cora Aragon Soriano.

“TIINZ ART” Maria Cristina Valencia Taruc, or “Tiinz” Taruc for short, is a Filipina master painter whose art is fresh and modern. With her vivid color choice bright and her brush stroke loose, the painting freely flows from her soul, as described by local art critics.

The artist is famous for her impressionism paintings, capturing subjects such as sunflowers, koi fish, landscapes, “Mother and Child” series, flowers, abstract pieces, and more modern art. Her social realism, modernist style portraits are unique and impressive.

Tiinz Taruc’s art is contemporary; reminiscent of Georgia O’Keefe’s style of flower paintings, while Taruc’s beautiful landscape paintings punctuated by changing light effects evoke more of a Van Gogh and Monet feel.

Classic impressionist artists were characterized by their being visually-impacted by nature, thereby being influenced by the love of their environment. Such

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artists sought to depict whatever they happened to see at a given moment; by using pure, broken, and often unmatched colors to achieve an appearance of improvisation. They usually painted ordinary everyday subjects and omitted details, to create a striking overall effect.

Born in Tarlac, she is a granddaughter of the late Huk Supremo Luis Taruc. He was the founder and leader of the Hukbo ng Bayan Laban sa mga Hapon (Hukbalahap or Huk) from 1942 to 1954, after he had led an insurgency group fighting for land reform in the 1930s.

Tinz Taruc is an impressionist whose paintings have been inspired by Philippine patriotism and Hukbalahap stories. Tiinz studied this theme as well as visual arts and graphic design at the Parsons School of Design in New York City. She thereafter became a “prodigy” of both master Rafael Maniago and master Cesar Devera in Los Angeles.

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Tancho Koi Mural

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The artist, Tina Taruc

Tiinz’ prolific paintings have given her hope and life. She states that art helps her deal with past love she has lost, choosing to face reality with a positive outlook. She will be returning to the Philippines from New York City and Los Angeles to have her 10th Exhibit in Pampanga and Manila as soon as the pandemic is declared over, likely late 2021 or early 2022.

Tiinz was approached by Yey Coronel-Alcid, Executive Director of the Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FAGSI), and commissioned by FAGSI to do a ceiling mural in the organization building’s entry way. At first she considered floral motifs, maybe a mother and child – but then settled on koi fish, to make it look like they are swimming from above. The blue waters calm down the viewer, and as the Asian belief connotes, koi represent good luck. Hesitant at first, she eventually accepted and even had the ribbon of the art & culture exhibit opening cut by Consul General Edgar Bardajos. The piece is called “The Lucky Tancho Koi Mural”.

Wishing Tiinz more success on her ongoing exhibit in Los Angeles at FASGI. n

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Photography

SCOTT RINALDI Location: Santorini Greece Blue domes Model: Crystal Snyder IG @snycry Scott Rinaldi photography IG scottrinaldiphotography

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THOMAS ORLINA AMPLIFIES THE ASIAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY WITH “BRUSH IT OFF” MUSIC VIDEO Los Angeles – Filipino American pop recording artist, TV host, producer, songwriter, and dancer Thomas Orlina released his debut solo pop dance music video, “Brush It Off ”.

The music video depicts a powerful message and is intended to highlight, amplify, and bring attention to various subject matters like mental health. It also celebrates equality with a partnership with the GLAAD organization, highlights the Black Lives Matter movement, brings awareness to the Stop Asian Hate movement, and much more.

“Brush It Off ” is intended to empower, uplift, and motivate listeners to overcome life’s obstacles and let go of anything that is weighing them down. The sound of his pop dance song was inspired by Billboard artists Justin Bieber, Britney Spears, and Lady Gaga.

“I hope this music video inspires people around the world to continue to create projects that make them happy, touches the hearts of people who need healing and sheds light to all of the subject matters I included in this video,” says Orlina.

The music video was co-directed and produced

by Thomas. manilaupmagazine.com

“Including the Filipino-American and Asian-American community in my music video was very important to me. As someone who is proud of their heritage and culture, I wanted to include people who look like me and represent the community I identify with. We need more visibility in entertainment and it was really special featuring my niece who is 6 years old, along with other kids and extras who identify as Asian-American. I’ve been on the cover of MANILA UP! and am so proud of Sonia, Grace, and her team as they continue to develop their brand further. I appreciate their continuous support for my music career,” Orlina said in an exclusive interview with MANILA UP!.

Thomas is best known for being the star and executive producer of his self-branded YouTube show “Your Time With Thomas”, which has been viewed by over 50K viewers worldwide and has been featured on CNN, NBC, The Advocate, and recently The Wall Street Journal.

He was named one of the 75 most influential FilipinoAmericans.

Follow Orlina’s social media everywhere @thomasorlina and visit his website thomasorlina.com to keep up with all things Thomas Orlina. n

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CoMmunity AG with his parents, and his wife Mia Bonta, in his old assembly office – standing in front of the Positively no Filipinos allowed photo.

FROM MARTIAL LAW TO AMERICAN DREAM: CALIFORNIA’S FIRST FILIPINO-AMERICAN ATTORNEY GENERAL ROB BONTA By: Naiia Lajoie

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feature Hailing originally from Ventura County, Warren was involved in Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Civil Rights Movement. He marched in Selma, met Stokely Carmichael, fought and organized for voting rights.

United by the desire to help the less fortunate, the pair moved back to Cynthia’s homeland where they worked as missionaries. First born was AG Bonta’s older sister Lisa, then himself, followed by his younger brother Marcelo. Born on September 22nd, Bonta’s first birthday fell nearly on the same day as President Ferdinand Marcos’ declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines; Sept. 21st, 1972.

During that year, AG Bonta’s parents witnessed the ramping-up to the declaration. They saw Marcos’ rise to power, hinging on the brink of dictatorship, and when the country came under Martial Law, the couple opted to relocate the family back to California to start their lives anew. Every year for his birthday thereafter, his mother would celebrate by hosting a party and organizing a protest. Cynthia fought for the restoration of democracy in the Philippines until the People Power Revolution in 1986, when a new era was ushered in to restore freedom.

Warren Bonta (AG’s dad) with the AG and the AG’s older sister Lisa – both wearing UFW shirts.

The thread used to sew California’s cultural tapestry is changing, strengthening. The change is reflected in the educational materials made available, media content being consumed as well as created, and within the wake of the Biden administration, in leadership. The nation has witnessed Kamala Harris, the first female Black and Asian-American become Vice President. On a more local level, in vacating her previous post she paved the way for California’s first Hispanic Senator Alex Padilla.

Another California native, Xavier Becerra, became the first Latino Secretary of Health and Human Services.

Making available the position of Attorney General of California, Governor Newsom tapped the first FilipinoAmerican to hold the title: Rob Bonta.

Attorney General Bonta was born at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City, Philippines. His mother Cynthia grew up in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental. Her father was a professor at Silliman University, and later moved the family to Los Baños, Laguna. Having graduated from the University of the Philippines Diliman, at 28 Cynthia embarked on a three-week boat ride to California where she landed in the Bay Area. There she met Bonta’s father Warren, both attending the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley. manilaupmagazine.com

The Attorney General looks back fondly on his – perhaps unconventional to most – upbringing consisting of protests and rallies with his mother. “That’s one of the animating, defining experiences of my childhood,” asserts Bonta. His cultural roots run as deeply as his dedication to service (given both are so intertwined). He returned to the motherland at age 12 with his younger brother for two weeks. They stayed with their Ninang Sylvia and Tito Hector, playing baseball with his uncle’s team, enjoying fresh pandesal and Milo. His subsequent return was between graduating college and starting law school in 1995. For a month he worked at a law film called SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan in Makati, Metro Manila.

Even with a western upbringing accompanied by an illustrious academic career at some of the nation’s most prestigious schools – graduating valedictorian at Bella Vista High School; graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in history from Yale University; studying politics, philosophy, and economics at University of Oxford; and returning to graduate with a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School – Bonta retains and represents his family’s Filipino heritage. Having played Division 1 Men’s Soccer in college, he and his brother were on the Philippines National Football Team, playing at the Rizal Memorial Stadium. “We were not prepared for the humidity of the Philippine summer,” Bonta recalls, “but had a great experience there spending time with family.”

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CoMmunity The cultural pride felt by the Attorney General is reciprocated by the nation, as upon being elected the first Filipino-American state legislator in California’s history in 2012, he was invited back to the Philippines and honored multiple times. Touring around with Gawad Kalinga (GK) and GK USA, in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan (known locally as Super Typhoon Yolanda) he helped with the rebuilding efforts, constructed homes for impoverished Filipinos, and went on a trade mission. This activism within Filipino communities was undoubtedly indoctrinated in him by what he describes as his “very, very proud Filipino” mother.

Cynthia continues to be active in the Filipino-American community. Avidly supporting and preserving the culture and its celebration, she founded the Philippine National Day Association (PNDA) in an effort to promote social justice and economic equity. From PNDA came the Sinag-tala Filipino Theater and Performing Arts Association, which originated as a fundraising project that has blossomed into an annual production and performing troupe. The Outstanding Filipino Youth Awards (OFYA) was also born of PNDA, established in 1990 as a recognition program. “She’s very community-oriented,” Bonta describes his mother, “and very committed to uplifting and supporting the FilipinoAmerican community. Passing on the culture and rich heritage to the next generation. So because it’s important to her, it’s important to me. We’re passing it onto our kids as well.”

Given his parents’ proclivity for activism, when asked if politics was always his intended career path, the Attorney General responded, “Not necessarily, but service was always a goal. The manifestation or specific form of that service was unclear. As I was growing up I saw my parents be activists and I thought that was incredible and powerful.” Living in a trailer at Nuestra Señora Reina de la Paz, Bonta’s parents worked for the United Farm Workers, supporting the Lettuce Boycott alongside Cesar Chavez and the Delano Grape Strike with Larry Itliong. Seeing his parents’ involvement in one of the most powerful Filipino-American movements, they demonstrated to him that one could produce change through a service to others. “They didn’t just tell me stories, they showed me.”

Initially Bonta’s call to action manifested during and after college through his working as a site coordinator for the nonprofit organization Leadership, Education, and Athletics in Partnership (LEAP). He then considered working in government as a staff team member, but like others, feared public elected office was gridlocked and corrupt. Despite any apprehension, he dipped his toe in the water and quickly discovered that none of the preconceived misgivings were true. “I started super grassroots; on a healthcare district board, then a city council, then the legislature, and now Attorney General,” he shares. “Every step has provided me exactly what I was looking for: a vehicle and platform. An opportunity to make people’s lives better.”

As one can imagine, holding office comes with its fair share of obstacles. In acknowledging that his perspective is one of many, Bonta touts the ability to listen as “underrated and very important”. His approach involves taking into account other people’s life experiences as well as solutions proposed. From there he can offer his own suggestions, strengthening the potential outcome through invited input and collaboration. Then, of course, there are politics. Bonta feels however that common ground overrides differing views, whether from someone across the aisle or representing an entirely different community.

Photo of Cynthia Bonta at Silliman University, a private research university in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, the Philippines, where Mrs. Bonta Received a lifetime achievement award.

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“They want to pass on something better. They want their kids to have a great education. They want them to have healthcare, to meet their full potential, and realize their dreams. And that’s what I want too,” the Attorney General puts simply. In his two months in the role, he attributes his hitting the ground running to the fact that there is just so much to do. “I feel the urgency for change. I’m impatient for the right change and the right approach, and change doesn’t just happen, it’s created by agents of change.” Whether it is access to high manilaupmagazine.com

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Family portrait from December 2020 (AG Bonta, his wife Mia Bonta, and their three children)

quality affordable healthcare, ending human trafficking, the postal service delivering critical medications and material, or fighting against big polluting corporations, he takes it upon himself to see the fight come to fruition. “It’s all framed by what my view of the Attorney General’s job is,” he elaborates, “which is to be the people’s attorney.” “[I want to] make sure that [the people] are being treated fairly, especially those who are vulnerable and voiceless. [Those that] have been underserved, mistreated, or passed-over. They deserve someone who sees them and values them.” Most recently, in the post-COVID world, rampant anti-AAPI hate violence is a particular button for AG Bonta. “When people get hurt, I get angry. I get motivated to help protect them and support them, especially when folks with power abuse their power – to hurt those who don’t have power.”

He goes on to explain that the fundamental role of the Attorney General is to balance the scales of justice; a title he had hoped for and dreamed of, but never anticipated becoming a reality. “This is my California dream; to be able to be in the role to fight for people and have their back, and be by their side, and make the world better and fairer.”

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While honored and humbled to be the first FilipinoAmerican to hold this position, Bonta understands the responsibility. He shares that during pandemic times, people have approached him, especially in the darkness of the anti-AAPI hate violence. They voiced their feelings of fear, worry, and concern – but he provided a light for them. “I don’t take that lightly. It means a lot when I hear it, but it’s not just words…it inspires me to act and to do more. To be worthy of that faith and that trust.” A far cry from the boy born in the Philippines, following in his family’s footsteps, Attorney General Bonta fully leads with his heart, championing the people.

Immersed in inspiring conversation about recent news headlines and his extraordinary upbringing, as a fellow half-Filipino born abroad, I had to take advantage of interviewing a fascinating dignitary like Bonta. Offering lighter topics of discussion, I asked what his favorite Filipino dish was. “I’m pretty open,” he laughed. “People who know me know [that] I like to eat and that I’m not discriminating. Chicken and pork adobo is very solid.

Sinigang, amazing. I love the desserts, so give me some halo-halo and I’ll be very happy. Ube ice cream is a favorite as well.” Agreeable both in his politics as well as his food preferences, while the Attorney General does not speak Tagalog, I thanked him on behalf of Manila Up! for his time, to which he replied, “Maraming salamat po.” n 93

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THE PHOTOREALISTIC INK OF JON LAUREL By: Naiia Lajoie

Jonathan Laurel is a Los Angeles tattoo artist based in Carson, California. On occasion he also travels for his tattooing work, which he has been doing for over 9 years.

Passionate about art growing-up, his inspiration began long ago with a love for creating images from his own imagination.

Now his family is what motivates him, especially his daughter Madison. She serves as a reminder for him to never lose focus in what he loves doing. He takes to heart the saying “If you love what you do, you never work a day in your life”, which is why he opts to pursue tattooing in lieu of working a 9-5 every day and hating it. He describes creating art on his clients’ skin as a dream come true. “It’s not all about the money, but of course we need it.” He elaborates, “It follows you when you’re passionate in what you do in life, no matter what job it is.”

His tattooing process begins with a consultation. During that time he and the client go over the design, its size, as well as placement. Typically his clients grant him carte blanche; sharing their reference and ideas as just a guideline, but ultimately trusting him to design what they are looking for to the best of his abilities. His tattoos range from 2-6 hours in a sitting, depending on how long his clients can sit still for.

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He takes his time with his work, so there are instances where multiple sittings are necessary.

When asked what the most popular designs are for men and women, Jon replies, “To be honest, there really is no popular design when it comes to tattoos. It’s what the client wants, and usually my clients go to me for realism art, portraits, and color work.” He always tries his best to deliver, however if there is a request that he feels is beyond his ability, he does recommend other artists that specialize in that particular offering.

Being honest with his clients, he always lets first-timers know that getting a tattoo is painful. He does not want to discourage anyone, but he is very forthcoming with what to expect with new ink, how body placement can also affect how painful the process is, as well as the duration of the tattooing. The longer the client sits in the chair, the more painful it becomes over time.

For anyone interested in checking-out Jon’s work or reaching out for a consultation, he can be reached via Instagram: @ j0nlaurel_ink. n

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ATTORNEY GENERAL ROB BONTA California’s First Filipino-American Attorney General