An image that consists of abstraction dancing among fettles and configurations to create a picture of classicality: the old country—
embodying a sense of community; its people, they stand with sun-kissed skin, against the starry tincture— A people born from strias of fantastical colorings
swirled into beautiful outlines— flora and fauna papering the walls of the canvas
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The Filipinos. Isang Lahi. It is beautiful beyond words, a spirit that emanates the colors of our flag-hope, peace, truth, patriotism, and valor. Even in the darkest moments of history, the Filipinos persevered and allowed a ray of sunshine to pass. See this spirit in these pages. Yes, Bravo Filipino still lives: Matatag, Makatao, Makabayan.
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“There is no one who loves pain itself, who seeks after it and wants to have it, simply because it is pain...”
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Copyright © 2023
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without prmission in writing from publisher, except by reviewers, who may quote brief passages in a review.
www.bravofilipino.com
“The world needs strong women—women who will lift and build others, who will love and be loved, women who live bravely, both tender and fierce, women of indomitable will.”
—Amy TenneyAA woman goes through stages in her life. At first, as a maiden, resembling the Greek korai, until she meets her muliebrity. Thereafter, she becomes the elderly matron. Each stage is worth its weight in gold. Without a beginning, there is no end. Without the past, there is no future. And so, what is more, beautiful a blessing than the cycle of mother and daughter?
Mothers, daughters, women—we are like solid and resilient links of a chain. Add a link, and the chain becomes more fructuous. Take away a link; it becomes weaker. Yet, every link bears a legacy, and each heir bequeaths the gifts of heritage. Together, life happens, and we receive our gifts—in my case, it is Bravo Filipino.
It began with my grandmother, Elizabeth Victoria. Deeply motivated by her vision to showcase the talents of her countrymen, she established Bravo Filipino Publishing in 2011. Bravo Filipino Magazine was launched, and for over a decade, it flourished, with Elizabeth being its front and center. With a penchant for writing and critical thinking, her daughter, Geraldine Cruz Piazza, supported her by working behind the scenes, taking on the role of editor-in-chief. And as the saying goes, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. I, Geraldine’s daughter, share this love for the written arts. Everyone is unique, born of a different generation. Yet, we share one common goal—to support each other’s talents, dreams, and ambitions. Therefore this book came to be.
Every one of us is essential in our own way, contributing to the wealth of the chain—making it more robust, more durable, and more fruitful in the long run. If we didn’t work together, it wouldn’t be the same. “By using our individualities and understanding each other, we succeed,” my grandmother stated, “and together, everyone achieves more. The important thing is that we try hard and bring out the best in each other because by doing that, we have the best result. We can each instill the values of a woman’s life into our work.”
Three years have passed since the 2020 pandemic paused the magazine’s publication. Still, it didn’t mean my grandmother stopped working. While at home, she continued to dream and lay the groundwork for her next project, this book.
When my family approached me to write this book, they did so knowing my love for writing. It was with hope and generosity that they wanted me to succeed and help me on that journey. They wanted to be the ones that would help me along the way while working together.
“Success doesn’t happen overnight. It happens without you realizing it when you continuously give your best effort in every endeavor, live your life to the fullest, and be your best self,” my mother always said. “You must be kind and good to others, but more importantly to yourself. Only then can you truly be satisfied with your success.”
My mother is the link between my grandmother and me. She brought us closer together so that we could understand each other despite our differences while simultaneously contributing to our individualities. A woman’s life cycle is like the Triple Goddess: Maiden, Mother, Crone—the valiant girl, the sagacious woman, and the wise, knowing elder. Each stage is worth our weight in gold. We work together as a family. Love of family keeps us bonded despite our differences and individualities. We need to remember what started the chain, and it’s just as crucial for us to keep it going.
Think about how far it has come; think of the women of the past! Something new is born every decade and a woman gains more opportunities every century. It is with her own wit and her own mind that she fights for what is rightfully hers. What began as nothing slowly starts to metamorphosize, and then there comes a beautiful butterfly of a story. We are all a part of this legacy—we are part of the great chain.
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IIt felt like being in the dreams of Frank Gehry. The cloud white, geometric, and ultra-modern structure was the perfect example of a home with a state-of-the-art design. Welcoming the guests in this immaculately spotless space was Evelyn “Belen” Gamboa — and I instantly worried about my shoes. The possibility of soiling the milky floor would be downright brusque. However, my thoughts were disrupted by the realization that Belen had graciously ushered the rest of the party inside, still clad in the same footwear. I concluded that my unquiet was unnecessary with such a host.
Despite her mettlesome work ethic and an unwavering urge to succeed as a businesswoman, Belen is very affable. She is sweet with a kindly bearing and a good sense of humor, one who rolls out a red carpet for whoever she meets. So as I sat down to interview her, I was gregariously treated with a sapid cup of coffee and a golden spoon to stir it with, no less. Everything about my host conjured the words of Audrey Hepburn: “I believe, every day, you should at least have one exquisite moment.” And that moment for me was with Belen.
As I discussed her altruistic tendencies, Belen smiled and gave me a simple reason: “I love people — it’s a Filipino trait.” She is considerate, and it shows through her words and actions. “I want everyone to be happy. So I will move mountains to keep my loved ones safe and happy even if I’m exhausted from all my responsibilities.”
Concern and being of help to others are paramount to Belen. These values are crucial in her work, mainly involving Filipino farmers. As Tom Barrett said: “If the rain spoils our picnic but saves a farmer’s crop, who are we to say it shouldn’t rain?”
The agriculturist is indispensable. Farmers nourish whole continents so that people may thrive — yet do we think of farmhands the way we ought to? They wake at the crack of dawn and toil in the fields, working hard with the sun on their necks, bartering with the very earth to yield the most fruitful harvest. Farmers should be championed for all they do — and that is precisely what Belen Gamboa does.
Belen’s career began in something other than agriculture, but she eventually fell into it. “I started from the rank when I was working for a company that dealt with fertilizer and agricultural supplies, wherein my marketing skills were enhanced and got promoted until I reached a managerial position because of my ability, positive attitude, and performance,” Belen explained. “I like this line of work, and so I decided to set up my own business instead of working for somebody. But it wasn’t easy. It’s like I was thrown in the middle of the sea on my own. Either I swim or drown. I had to work really hard to establish contacts and gain the trust of my
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clients.”
Her business mainly supplies farm machinery, equipment, and livestock to farmers. With technology being fast-paced, Belen said that she serves the farmers by keeping them updated. Having established a meaningful business, Belen is content. She helps the farmers with their daily operations saving money, time, and energy from cultivation, fertilizer, and pesticide application to harvesting. “The farmers, agriculture, and food production are essential so that we will not depend on imported products. So we must give farmers more support because they are the heart and soul of the nation.”
When asked what keeps her going in her chosen career, she replied, “Prayers and determination and the challenge. I thrive on a challenge.” For Belen, the challenge, thrill, and results of her actions keep her alive in the field. In addition, Belen is an individualist — she knows how to work alone. “No one is to blame for its success or failure but me.”
“[The industry] was very male-dominated, and I did go through a lot to penetrate the industry. You have to be tough and hardworking.” Despite the obstacles that befell her, Belen was not swayed by the patriarchy of her work. She was never worried about who she was. “It isn’t a hindrance to be a woman,” Belen said without elaboration. As a strong and independent woman, she never feared what would happen. Her primary goal is to help the farmhands. “I want to give them a chance to make a living and be productive. This helps the Philippines.”
Belen’s love for supporting the Filipinos keeps her happy. She works hard to contribute to her own community. It resulted in Belen, a self-titled “newbie” to her neighborhood, being elected president in a landslide. She believes in honesty, for she is true to herself and others. She expects no less from her friends and family. “I don’t sugarcoat my words because I would rather be brutally honest than be fake.”
Known for her generosity, she cautions that she knows when someone is taking advantage of her. “I have the biggest heart in the world, but if my kindness is abused, once my trust is broken, there will no longer be a space for you,” said Belen. For Belen, kindness towards others is the propeller in life and career. With a heart of gold, Belen takes it upon herself to support her country and fellow citizens. She is summed up in yet another brilliant quote by Miss Hepburn: “Giving is living. If you stop wanting to give, there’s nothing more to live for.”
WWinston Churchill said: “A nation that forgets its past has no future.” Throughout the ages, nations have been subjected to change. For some citizens, change brought them glory, while others suffered. Women, in particular, have always been heavily affected.
Before the Spaniards appropriated the Philippine archipelago, native women were seen in a different light. Their existence did not only mean subservience to husbands and vessels for children. On the contrary, they were as valuable to society as men. When the conquistadors came in 1521, the concept of strong women was reduced to near-nothingness. It was replaced by a new image of women, very much embodied by the fictional character of Maria Clara in NoliMeTangere . The demure young girl with a sweet face, innocent eyes, and a dainty little penchant for fainting and blushing became the touchstone of the ideal woman.
Maria Clara may seem ingrained in Philippine society, despite her archaic associations. However, the Philippines is not the only one that keeps such concepts close to the heart. Peru, Cuba, Mexico, and every nation subjected to Spain’s cultural dismantling are the same. But what if Maria Clara is just an illusion and the idea of its character never really took hold? The modern Maria would be just as sweet, lovely, and without the unnecessary damsel-in-distress behavior. A woman who, despite her preference for quietude, can express her intelligence, speak up, and raise her objections.
It’s almost ironic where we find her, the child of two nations tyrannized by Spain. Yet her blood is that of her native ancestors, and it is her blood that will reclaim. Her name is Giselle Cruz, and she is Maria Clara rewritten.
“I think to renounce one’s culture is to cloud one’s identity,” says Giselle. “I don’t want to be compared to Spain. Spanish colonialism implemented a more patriarchal view in society. Therefore, women were seen in more domestic roles. These expectations are still present in Filipino society and seen as a necessary element in women.”
Yet women have never stopped fighting. Filipino women are fierce and independent. “I would say [we are] more outspoken because over time we have evolved. Also, we protect and stand up for things that we believe are worth it,” explains Giselle. “Over time, I think Filipino women have modernized and [have] become more independent. I think the rise of feminism is a representation of how women have evolved through the years. It is important for women to have equal opportunity, but also to honor their heritage and traditions.”
With her cultural embrace, Giselle is genuinely the modern Maria. When asked about her Filipino identity, she answers, “I would say it always is significant because it is a part of who I am as a person. It plays a large element in my life and in my character and how I approach things in certain situations.”
The daughter of a Filipino father and a Mexican mother, Giselle admits that her upbringing affects her ideologies. “I’d say a lot of the values that were instilled in me I practice on a daily basis. Such as discipline, working hard, and regardless of the challenge in an academic sense, but also in your career, to push yourself regardless of the rigor.”
Giselle was born in the heart of Mexico City and moved to the United States, where she learned to
speak English. “ I didn’t learn English until I was in kindergarten,” she recalls. “I would just say it felt like the environment I was in [wasn’t helpful]. The teachers weren’t patient enough with me, and weren’t willing to work with my limitations, so I felt I couldn’t reach the same level or I wasn’t the same as my classmates. So when Mrs. Sturges, my third-grade teacher, really gave me the confidence to believe I could do well in school, I told myself I could prove to myself that I could be as good or I could achieve the same thing. From there, that thought has propelled me throughout college and everything.”
She perseveres in all aspects of her life, and her hard work ethic has led her to incredible places, especially academically. She recently graduated summa cum laude at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, USA. There is more to the culture than just work ethic. “I think the Filipino culture is a beautiful culture, a culture full of wonderful values such as love, such as family, such as loyalty—loyalty to one’s self, loyalty to one’s community—mindfulness to those around you,” says Giselle. “Filipino people impact the world every day, such as ov erseas workers. They’re the people taking care of patients, they’re the people working in restaurants, and they’re doing basic things we take for granted. I think the best nurses are Filipino nurses because of their values. They’re very attentive, and they’re very empathetic.”
Despite the sweet values, Filipino women are not bursting with emotions that indispose them. They are not Maria Clara as depicted. Regardless of how the colonizers wanted to change women, their idea of Maria Clara does not exist. Filipino women are not dainty, not precious, not porcelain—they are strong, durable, made of steel, with a fire in their hearts. They are not the princesses in jeopardy but the knights in shining armor who will fight for their beliefs, rights, and people.
TThe abstract shapes swirled gently into forms between other fettles and configurations create an image of the classical country: a picture of makabayan It’s magical—to see the contrast of sunkissed skin against starbright tincture as silhouettes of people born from fantastical coloring swirl into beautiful outlines. These streaks of paint turn a plain old board into a masterpiece of Filipiniana, brushed on by none other than Tam Austria.
To speak with him is to delve into heart-to-heart on poetry, proverbs, philosophy, and physics—the very nature of art and science—so that we may fathom the depths of his brilliance. So, in the words of Tam Austria, what is art?
“Art is fertility,” answers Tam. “Fertility is to create especially for the enrichment of the human being. Art is inspired [by] the Paradigm of God, the gift of fertility to create, invent, especially for the enrichment of the human spirit and moral ascendancy on this beautiful planet Earth. It is not just a planet but a home where it deserves what is best: art in this world against inhumanity.
“In layman’s language,” he further explains, “art is our breath of life. Without breathing, we will all die of COVID’s destruction, vain of confusion, etc. Likewise, it’s the spirit of inspiration that is capable [of surviving] death from life’s separation.”
These are words of wisdom from someone who has lived life. Like most artists, Tam’s success was not instantaneous. A long time ago, Tam Austria
was a struggling artist, locking horns with the reality of being one.
The call of the arts had been like a siren’s song to him as a young man. So when he painted a portrait of Christ with a crown of thorns upon his head, an impressed priest saw the painting and put it on display; the rest is history.
His artist’s career could have split in two when he went into advertising, but the lure of the purity of painting was too strong to resist. So when he quit advertising, he gained more audience for his breathtaking dioramas and more, and his name rose in the crowd.
Eventually, progress came with industrialism, leaving his hands fuller than expected. But Tam still lived in a small dampa in Rizal, even when there was a demand for his artwork. So finally, overwhelmed and overworked with nothing to show for it, he took action. He fired his broker, managed the business side of his art, and made the successful life he enjoys today.
Tam holds on to the belief that art will live no matter how challenging circumstances may be. Art was his cynosure even after his mastery. Now in his golden years, he keeps his passion alive with his philosophy of always moving forward. He professes, “I’m a positive thinker. Art can overcome (even) pandemics. I have a positive mind to contribute in a selfless way, with lots of experiences.”
“I can focus on younger generations. [My duty as an artist] is mainly to inspire. I think that is the pinnacle of human wisdom. In my twilight years [my goal] is to share my precious time remaining [to create] milestones for philanthropic acts of humility, having considered the best of mankind, and to lead my own foundation, Maharlika Sining Lahi Inc. based on my art advocacy-related action plans in educational outreach projects. Sharing art appreciation builds a brave heart’s confidence to gain sensory powers of influence.”
By helping other artists, Tam believes he can bring more to the world. “It is a work of [sociality and morality]. Art is very important in humanization and the cultural inspiration of a nation.”
Tam’s ultimate goal is to furnish young, struggling artists with a bedrock to grow. Sympathetic towards their plight, Tam considers it his duty to help his fellow creators. To further his goal of providing them with guidance, Tam plans to transform his grand estate in Antipolo into a museum and haven for upcoming artists.
Art is a human’s expression of reverence and beauty shown by how the world is seen. “Art is paramount or realization of our social dreams of abundance and multicultural aspirations of all nations and where the spirit of humanity communes with more friends—no enemies,” finalizes the master artist.
E“Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing!” This adage by Benjamin Franklin can apply conceptually to every writer of any sort, especially to the journalist. After all, a reporter’s purpose is to write or do aught to write of. But how easy can it be to capture something beautiful in a world filled with the unsightly?
Columns begin with despairing quotes, and headlines are anything but pretty. These types of news drive journalist Christine Daryit up the wall. “When I read the paper in the morning, I don’t even read the negative stuff any more. I just go to the happy parts!” she said. “There are so many negative things happening in the world, you know, sad things, bad news. And so I feel that we are blessed with so much, and it is also our responsibility to people [to reveal these blessings] and our way of thanking the Lord.”
Christine makes a living out of travel writing and ensures that whatever she does is for the positive. “I’m not a food critic. I’m not a travel critic. I’m not there to criticize and say it didn’t meet the standards,” she explains, “I’m just a travel writer who explores, who writes of a good place to eat or a good place to stay, what activities to engage in when you’re in a specific place.”
So why travel writing? “Of course, for myself, I achieve the satisfaction of experiencing these places. And to people, I like to discover the places and share with people—the readers—what’s beautiful. In terms of nature, structures, food, cultures, you know, everything! In 20 years I’ve never written anything negative about a place because I only write about the beauty that I see! I only write about good things, happy things…things that are positive.”
Christine’s mantra is to only write about the good things in life because there’s enough negativity as there is. But what exactly led her to this philosophy? It started back when she was a young woman producing films.
Despite being a part of the well-known family business, Miladay Fine Jewels, Christine had other aspirations when she was younger. “I didn’t always want to be a journalist, I wanted to be a lawyer,” Christine recalls. However, her father discouraged her, stating it was a lonely profession. Christine’s grandfather was, in fact, a lawyer, and such thoughts were rooted in family experience. So instead, she pursued film production at Boston University.
After finishing her studies, she returned to the Philippines and produced films with the support of her father. In addition, she became the chairman of the Cinema Evaluation Board.
“When I started producing films I’d always get comments that the film was bad or not bad,” she recalls. She also noticed that some entertainment writers do nothing but criticize. But for Christine, there is no point in attacking and breaking down someone’s art.
“When my parents passed away in 1997. I didn’t want to attend socials and functions and parties. The film industry is like that, there are so many events with lots of people. I said, ‘I’d like to write about travel. Being a travel writer, I could do it on my own.’ When you produce films you need like 100 people on the set. My background as a travel writer started because when I was studying in Boston, I also took up writing classes which I enjoyed.”
Now that Christine followed her heart, she could choose where to go, sometimes with her editor’s help. “My editor gives me assignments, and lately she’s been giving me assignments on local places. She sent me to Boracay to write about re-discovering travel in the Philippines. When it comes to the beauty of nature there’s no problem. Also, we have lots of beautiful hotels and resorts.”
Christine says the country’s tourism industry would be more robust by improving infrastructure and facilities such as airports, roads, and communication services. She says it is more expensive to travel in the Philippines than in other Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. As a travel writer, there is nothing she would like more than to promote her own country.
One of Christine’s goals is to write and finish her book, which is taking longer than anticipated. “I am working on a compilation of my best dream destinations.” She admits choosing the best places to visit takes work. However, it’s better to be overloaded by the good rather than the bad. So, following her philosophy of positivity, Christine continues to travel and write, remembering to always follow the good things in life.
M“My art is borne out of my imagination and my character as a Filipino,” said Sheen Orchavez. “I think my greatest gift to my country as an artist is to gain international recognition through art highlighting the Philippines as a country with a strong cultural presence in the international art world, especially in the UK, where I now reside permanently.”
There is no greater contribution to your culture than to embrace your heritage by showing it through art. How could there be anything more beautiful? You express the very essence of who you are, displaying the beauty of the building blocks of your being, which take their form by running through your veins. You express your blood proudly and passionately. This is what Sheen does. In her own words: “If I am able to share the history and culture of the Philippines through my paintings, then I feel I will have achieved something.”
So what is it about the Philippines that enchants her so? “There is no place like the Philippines,” Sheen said warmly. “I think as we grow older we tend to be more nostalgic about our past hence the famous term ‘Babalik ka rin.’ It certainly applies to me,” she added, “and it is my intention to go back to my home permanently.”
“Culture helps define a society,” elaborated Sheen on her perspective of heritage. “The movement of goods and people had produced good and bad consequences. Good in the way that it is now easier to showcase the works of Filipino artists, but at the same
time, our culture is endangered of being irrelevant with the younger generations succumbing to the lure of western life and fashion.”
With globalization becoming increasingly prominent, Sheen said that it is easy for the youth to sway in their pride for their origins… However, the sound artists can save that; the lure of the old country and the wish to embrace it has long been a prepossessing subject for them, ingraining itself in a sometimes bold, sometimes subliminal essence of the creator. Speaking of creators—what exactly composes Sheen’s work, and how does Filipino pride reside in it?
“[I] express colors in all its spectrum in my art as well [as] the tendency to use lines and abstraction in all of my paintings. When I’m doing portraiture, I enjoy using intersecting lines, shapes and colors in the background as well as using saturated colors. Examples are my recent paintings, “Lisia” and Other Portraits.”
“Everyone is unique,” Sheen said. “One can say that Filipino artists that use local materials in creating their art are truly unique in that sense. In the same way, Filipino artists who are educated abroad will tend to create art that is their product of theirs. Upbringing will also include the influences they had been exposed to during their life and art journey. For Sheen, she shows beautiful landscapes and parts of abstraction composing the experiences of the Filipinos.
To showcase your heritage in art is always valuable, and Sheen does this perfectly well. To take pride in where you come from through art is one of the highest forms of gratitude—and one that will last through the ages.
Beauty is a tyrant. And when it comes to it, criticism is unavoidable. One is either too tall, short, fat, or skinny. What’s appealing one day is unsightly the next, and everyone who had to live with yesterday’s contempt continues in confusion.
The aesthetic value of something has long been a topic of interest for humans. Our discerning eyes enjoy picking out what we believe is good from the bad and uplifting what we think sightly. This belief has held us for thousands of years. In the modern day, it manifests itself in beauty pageants.
The debate continues about the usefulness of such contests. Who do they serve, and what do they accomplish? The mother-daughter team of beauty queens Mel Hubahib Martinez and Khatrina Martinez weigh in on the matter.
Mel believes that beauty pageantry is misconceived. “I see pageants as a way to feel beautiful, a way for me to remember to be presentable and take care of myself,” she expressed. When she joined beauty pageants, her purpose was to fulfill her dream of dressing up like a princess. For her, it was plain fun.
Her daughter Khatrina grew up hearing about beauty pageants and eventually tried them. However, she felt drained after the competitions. She is well aware of the rigid standards set by society. According to her, she disliked that the contestants were judged mainly by their appearance. It might be considered archaic, especially in a world where women are encouraged to be just who they are. “I felt like I just wanted to shine on my own,” said Khatrina.
With media and social media at the forefront of people’s lives, unrealistic expectations are placed on today’s youth. “I use [social media] for work, and I am active on it, but I don’t like how it pressures people to feel a certain way,” she explained. Khatrina believes social media is often harmful, especially to people seeking validation.
“True beauty radiates when there is self-love,” she expressed. “A person glows differently when there is self-love—a lady who knows her worth. They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but I believe that true beauty does not come with validation from others.”
Both mother and daughter share one imperative belief: Beauty manifests in kindness. “You have to be kind to people and have to be mindful of others,” Mel explained. “I believe that there are so many ways to help those who are in need.”
Mel has a soft spot for street children and orphans. She visits and helps out in the orphanage. “I encourage everyone to do small acts of kindness, and in general, just be kind. Because the world needs it the most. If you have beauty but don’t have a heart, you are not beautiful. I believe that the beauty of the body is incomplete without the beauty of the mind and heart.”
Khatrina, on the other hand, loves animals. She spends her free time helping displaced animals find homes. She compares actions of kindness with the butterfly effect. “Essentially, the butterfly effect focuses on how every tiny action influences the course of the rest of our lives.
We cannot control the repercussions of events from our past. Because it will inevitably bleed into the present. But even with this said,” she continued, “we can take action to make things right by simply always choosing to be kind. I also believe that our tongues have power. What we say has the power to build up or tear down. Together our small acts of kindness can amplify into better.”
Even though these two beauty queens are from different generations with varied viewpoints, Khatrina and Mel still promote tranquility despite their dissimilarities. Regardless of their good looks, their beauty emanates from within. Their nature is what makes them truly wonderful.
Mel Hubahib Martinez
Mrs. Philippines - Consectetur adipiscing elit.
Khatrina Martinez
Ms. Makati - Ut enim ad minim veniam.
A girl enters a parlor to exit a queen. In my cousin’s case, the “Queen of Hearts,” as I coined her. Why? Her dress. It is the sanguine shades of black with gorgeous heart-hued blossoms. And they are not a deep crimson or the color of an unlucky sailor’s sky. Instead, they are bright, blaring, beautiful scarlet red—red flowers that bloomed on tenebrous ink, standing out like a planet in the night.
But what exactly makes this vibrant Maria Clara dress the work of art it is? For answers, I turned to its creator, Frankie De Leon. “There’s so much artistry in our traditional outfits,” says Frankie. It is a simple response, yet a meaningful one.
Frankie’s evolving story stemmed from weddings, an event significant to many couples worldwide. The ritual involves one of the most revered garments in fashion history: the iconic wedding dress. “I was invited to give a talk about fashion. I talked about Filipino weddings in Southeast Asian countries,” he recalls. “There was one guest who asked: ‘What is the traditional Filipino wedding attire?’ And I didn’t know how to answer.”
“We are the only country in Asia that doesn’t have a known wedding outfit. The Indonesians, and the Malay—they have special clothes. The Chinese have Cheongsam. Even in Korea, the mother of the bride will wear Hanbok. In Filipino weddings, the mother will not even wear Filipino sleeves,” Frankie confesses. “I was embarrassed when asked about wedding attire because I didn’t know what to say. I didn’t even know about our traditional clothing. And this started my journey.”
And so Frankie’s adventure began. First, he started utilizing traditional Filipino elements in his designs—from accessories and silhouettes to fabric. Then, finally, Frankie went Pinoy, and his clientele loved it. “I did a suit for Miss Universe in the Yakan style,” he quips. “Then I saw a video she posted on her Instagram account, and I could tell she loved it!”
The benefits of going Pinoy continue. Promoting Filipino craftsmanship also helps fellow Filipinos. “You help the indigenous people when you use their traditional fabrics. It supports them, their art, and their communities.”
Most importantly, Frankie’s creation helps the revival of a lost culture. “Why do we copy the Europeans? And why is it always a plunging neckline?” he asks. “People always look for modern, the white dress or what the Royals wore for their weddings. And then, there are ironic things I’ll see in fashion and in the latest trends. For example, I will see puffy sleeves, the type in our traditional dresses. That’s Filipino. It’s a surprise. I’ll think, ‘Wow, that’s Filipino!’ Why do we have to hide our traditions? They’re something to be proud of.”
“Back to weddings, I try to put a touch of Filipino in my wedding designs. I want people to feel the beauty of being Filipino, even in little ways. It’s very beautiful, very classic. For example, a man can wear a barong with beautiful sleeves. The purpose of being traditional is to show the beauty of being classic. It is timeless and wearable.”
Frankie De Leon
Fashion Designer - Ut enim ad minim veniam.
Gela Cornelissen Entrepreneur - sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
QQue porro quisquam est qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit...
“There is no one who loves pain itself, who seeks after it and wants to have it, simply because it is pain...”
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla non suscipit purus. In vitae tortor et enim posuere ullamcorper placerat in augue. Ut sollicitudin iaculis nibh vel luctus. Nulla bibendum accumsan felis, et mattis lectus commodo eu. Etiam tempor dolor felis, quis accumsan massa vestibulum nec. Duis accumsan auctor consequat. Aenean lorem augue, varius sed quam in, varius mattis justo. Donec cursus luctus pellentesque. Proin facilisis, nibh quis egestas luctus, nibh metus blandit odio, id ultricies ex urna eu magna. Nam non massa sem.
Aliquam tristique molestie cursus. Morbi enim mauris, vulputate sodales augue at, egestas rutrum tortor. Pellentesque odio enim, pulvinar a lorem sit amet, tincidunt pretium tortor. Vivamus accumsan sollicitudin rutrum. Duis hendrerit ante sit amet metus dapibus, sed dignissim dui dapibus. Etiam arcu nulla, accumsan nec viverra lacinia, posuere laoreet libero. Sed non rutrum justo, ac porttitor nunc. Integer magna massa, viverra quis velit nec, congue tincidunt metus. Cras id maximus felis. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos. Integer sapien justo, egestas non commodo a, lobortis quis est. Etiam imperdiet dolor at convallis
pulvinar. Nunc facilisis arcu nec semper pulvinar. In eget risus at ipsum elementum ultrices eget id mi. Cras malesuada egestas orci eget scelerisque.
Duis nisi metus, fermentum at lobortis vitae, congue id orci. Praesent aliquet lacus eu ipsum porta, ac sagittis nisl malesuada. Donec pretium nisi at sodales tincidunt. Proin maximus scelerisque est, a luctus risus imperdiet tempus. Suspendisse a ultrices ex. Sed lectus augue, egestas et orci sit amet, bibendum varius dui. In sagittis metus sed tincidunt porta.
Pellentesque viverra, lectus vitae finibus porttitor, dui arcu accumsan felis, a eleifend neque metus at enim. Morbi at dapibus nunc. Etiam in metus sapien. Sed hendrerit est elit, eget laoreet nunc accumsan ut. Mauris aliquam enim risus, vitae faucibus nunc porta porta. In ultricies quis erat a pretium. Ut id urna ultrices, consectetur tortor at, convallis magna. Suspendisse non nibh vitae metus pretium venenatis eu non nisi. Donec dolor neque, porttitor eget ex non, feugiat rutrum est.
Sed non venenatis risus. Donec ipsum mauris, iaculis vel fermentum quis, pulvinar sit amet justo. Duis eget velit eget ante placerat tempor vel at dolor. Fusce urna dui, rutrum quis scelerisque ut, aliquet eget nunc. Duis tortor quam, dignissim vel fringilla sed, efficitur sit amet purus. Suspendisse blandit et nulla quis volutpat. Suspendisse potenti. Quisque pretium, lorem ac tristique maximus, dui velit accumsan lacus, viverra elementum magna tortor non metus. Vivamus tristique blandit scelerisque. Curabitur eget pharetra orci. Nulla eget tellus volutpat, congue magna quis, placerat tortor. Nulla turpis metus, rhoncus elementum lacus a, lobortis varius neque.
PPorro quisquam est qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit...
“There is no one who loves pain itself, who seeks after it and wants to have it, simply because it is pain...”
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla non suscipit purus. In vitae tortor et enim posuere ullamcorper placerat in augue. Ut sollicitudin iaculis nibh vel luctus. Nulla bibendum accumsan felis, et mattis lectus commodo eu. Etiam tempor dolor felis, quis accumsan massa vestibulum nec. Duis accumsan auctor consequat. Aenean lorem augue, varius sed quam in, varius mattis justo. Donec cursus luctus pellentesque. Proin facilisis, nibh quis egestas luctus, nibh metus blandit odio, id ultricies ex urna eu magna. Nam non massa sem.
Aliquam tristique molestie cursus. Morbi enim mauris, vulputate sodales augue at, egestas rutrum tortor. Pellentesque odio enim, pulvinar a lorem sit amet, tincidunt pretium tortor. Vivamus accumsan sollicitudin rutrum. Duis hendrerit ante sit amet metus dapibus, sed dignissim dui dapibus. Etiam arcu nulla, accumsan nec viverra lacinia, posuere laoreet libero. Sed non rutrum justo, ac porttitor nunc. Integer magna massa, viverra quis velit nec, congue tincidunt metus. Cras id maximus felis. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos. Integer sapien justo, egestas non commodo a, lobortis quis est. Etiam imperdiet dolor at convallis
pulvinar. Nunc facilisis arcu nec semper pulvinar. In eget risus at ipsum elementum ultrices eget id mi. Cras malesuada egestas orci eget scelerisque.
Duis nisi metus, fermentum at lobortis vitae, congue id orci. Praesent aliquet lacus eu ipsum porta, ac sagittis nisl malesuada. Donec pretium nisi at sodales tincidunt. Proin maximus scelerisque est, a luctus risus imperdiet tempus. Suspendisse a ultrices ex. Sed lectus augue, egestas et orci sit amet, bibendum varius dui. In sagittis metus sed tincidunt porta.
Pellentesque viverra, lectus vitae finibus porttitor, dui arcu accumsan felis, a eleifend neque metus at enim. Morbi at dapibus nunc. Etiam in metus sapien. Sed hendrerit est elit, eget laoreet nunc accumsan ut. Mauris aliquam enim risus, vitae faucibus nunc porta porta. In ultricies quis erat a pretium. Ut id urna ultrices, consectetur tortor at, convallis magna. Suspendisse non nibh vitae metus pretium venenatis eu non nisi. Donec dolor neque, porttitor eget ex non, feugiat rutrum est.
Sed non venenatis risus. Donec ipsum mauris, iaculis vel fermentum quis, pulvinar sit amet justo. Duis eget velit eget ante placerat tempor vel at dolor. Fusce urna dui, rutrum quis scelerisque ut, aliquet eget nunc. Duis tortor quam, dignissim vel fringilla sed, efficitur sit amet purus. Suspendisse blandit et nulla quis volutpat. Suspendisse potenti. Quisque pretium, lorem ac tristique maximus, dui velit accumsan lacus, viverra elementum magna tortor non metus. Vivamus tristique blandit scelerisque. Curabitur eget pharetra orci. Nulla eget tellus volutpat, congue magna quis, placerat tortor. Nulla turpis metus, rhoncus elementum lacus a, lobortis varius neque.
Porro quisquam est qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit...
“There is no one who loves pain itself, who seeks after it and wants to have it, simply because it is pain...”
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla non suscipit purus. In vitae tortor et enim posuere ullamcorper placerat in augue. Ut sollicitudin iaculis nibh vel luctus. Nulla bibendum accumsan felis, et mattis lectus commodo eu. Etiam tempor dolor felis, quis accumsan massa vestibulum nec. Duis accumsan auctor consequat. Aenean lorem augue, varius sed quam in, varius mattis justo. Donec cursus luctus pellentesque. Proin facilisis, nibh quis egestas luctus,
nibh metus blandit odio, id ultricies ex urna eu magna. Nam non massa sem.
Aliquam tristique molestie cursus. Morbi enim mauris, vulputate sodales augue at, egestas rutrum tortor. Pellentesque odio enim, pulvinar a lorem sit amet, tincidunt pretium tortor. Vivamus accumsan sollicitudin rutrum. Duis hendrerit ante sit amet metus dapibus, sed dignissim dui dapibus. Etiam arcu nulla, accumsan nec viverra lacinia, posuere laoreet libero. Sed non rutrum justo, ac porttitor nunc. Integer magna massa, viverra quis velit nec, congue tincidunt metus. Cras id maximus felis. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos. Integer sapien justo, egestas non commodo a, lobortis quis est. Etiam imperdiet dolor at convallis pulvinar. Nunc facilisis arcu nec semper pulvinar. In eget risus at ipsum elementum ultrices eget id mi. Cras malesuada egestas orci eget scelerisque.
Duis nisi metus, fermentum at lobortis vitae, congue id orci. Praesent aliquet lacus eu ipsum porta, ac sagittis nisl malesuada. Donec pretium nisi at sodales tincidunt. Proin maximus scelerisque est, a luctus risus imperdiet tempus. Suspendisse a ultrices ex. Sed lectus augue, egestas et orci sit amet, bibendum varius dui. In sagittis metus sed tincidunt porta.
Pellentesque viverra, lectus vitae finibus porttitor, dui arcu accumsan felis, a eleifend neque metus at enim. Morbi at dapibus nunc. Etiam in metus sapien. Sed hendrerit est elit, eget laoreet nunc accumsan ut. Mauris aliquam enim risus, vitae faucibus nunc porta porta. In ultricies quis erat a pretium. Ut id urna ultrices, consectetur tortor at, convallis magna. Suspendisse non nibh vitae metus pretium venenatis eu non nisi. Donec dolor neque, porttitor eget ex non, feugiat rutrum est.
Sed non venenatis risus. Donec ipsum mauris, iaculis vel fermentum quis, pulvinar sit amet justo. Duis eget velit eget ante placerat tempor vel at dolor. Fusce urna dui, rutrum quis scelerisque ut, aliquet eget nunc. Duis tortor quam, dignissim vel fringilla sed, efficitur sit amet purus. Suspendisse blandit et nulla quis volutpat. Suspendisse potenti. Quisque pretium, lorem ac tristique maximus, dui velit accumsan lacus, viverra elementum magna tortor non metus. Vivamus tristique blandit scelerisque. Curabitur eget pharetra orci. Nulla eget tellus volutpat, congue magna quis, placerat tortor. Nulla turpis metus, rhoncus elementum lacus a, lobortis varius neque.
Duis nisi metus, fermentum at lobortis vitae, congue id orci. Praesent aliquet lacus eu ipsum porta, ac sagittis nisl malesuada. Donec pretium nisi at sodales tincidunt. Proin maximus scelerisque est, a luctus risus imperdiet tempus. Suspendisse a ultrices ex. Sed lectus augue, egestas et orci sit amet, bibendum varius dui. In sagittis metus sed tincidunt porta.
Pellentesque viverra, lectus vitae finibus porttitor, dui arcu accumsan felis, a eleifend neque metus at enim. Morbi at dapibus nunc. Etiam in metus sapien. Sed hendrerit est elit, eget laoreet nunc accumsan ut. Mauris aliquam enim risus, vitae faucibus nunc porta porta. In ultricies quis erat a pretium. Ut id urna ultrices, consectetur tortor at, convallis magna. Suspendisse non nibh vitae metus pretium venenatis eu non nisi. Donec dolor neque, porttitor eget ex non, feugiat rutrum est.
Sed non venenatis risus. Donec ipsum mauris, iaculis vel fermentum quis, pulvinar sit amet justo. Duis eget velit eget ante placerat tempor vel at dolor. Fusce urna dui, rutrum quis scelerisque ut, aliquet eget nunc. Duis tortor quam, dignissim vel fringilla sed, efficitur sit amet purus. Suspendisse blandit et nulla quis volutpat. Suspendisse potenti. Quisque pretium, lorem ac tristique maximus, dui velit accumsan lacus, viverra elementum magna tortor non metus. Vivamus tristique blandit scelerisque. Curabitur eget pharetra orci. Nulla eget tellus volutpat, congue magna quis, placerat tortor. Nulla turpis metus, rhoncus elementum lacus a, lobortis varius neque.
Porro quisquam est qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit...
“There is no one who loves pain itself, who seeks after it and wants to have it, simply because it is pain...”
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla non suscipit purus. In vitae tortor et enim posuere ullamcorper placerat in augue. Ut sollicitudin iaculis nibh vel luctus. Nulla bibendum accumsan felis, et mattis lectus commodo eu. Etiam tempor dolor felis, quis accumsan massa vestibulum nec. Duis accumsan auctor consequat. Aenean lorem augue, varius sed quam in, varius mattis justo.
adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
SSounds are vibrations. They move in waves and transfigure themselves into something beautiful, aural to the human ear, in forms of music and individuality. And the song, as we call it, is a pleasing potpourri of sounds humans may give rise to.
The singer, the songster, and the melodist, the person who holds such a name, is revered not for performing for performance’s sake but rather their execution of an act of beauty, one that has withheld the tests of time. Anyone may sing, and any chord may be strung and strummed, but the exquisite style—the presentation of it all—is what captures the hearts of the listener. We recall marvels rather than moments, for they are what stay with us until death, and may be our final fading memory.
And for the heartfelt songster, there is no greater sorrow than to lose the constancy of voice. The obliteration of art would destroy humanity as it is a human truth; its loss in a single soul would propel them into devastation. Such is the case of long-lived songbird Kathy Mas, whose story started nowhere near her present realm of opera and classy oeuvre. Yet, she was sent into her now masterful domain via life’s great throes.
A tale as old as time: the youth falls prey to what is in favor— whatsoever may be esteemed with popularity—hence, pop music earns its name. “I concentrated on being a pop singer when I was a teenager and in college,” says Kathy. “I once had a gig in a hotel when I was still in school. I did lounge singing, and then a friend of mine helped me to have an album and promote it here in Manila.”
It was milk and honey for a short while when Kathy was able to sing for Galaxy Records and made her pop-style album. But as she sang continuously, she began to feel pain in her throat and consulted a physician, knowing something was wrong. “I developed inflamed nodes on my throat...the doctor told me, ‘If you want to continue singing, you will even lose your speaking voice. So if I were you, I’d
stop singing now, or you’ll ruin your voice forever.’”
The doctor’s order had her thunderstruck. She did not know if she would ever sing again. “I was thinking about what to do next because I cannot sing!” Kathy professes. “Singing is my first love.”
Yet, she didn’t let her situation pull her down. Instead, she assessed her other talents and passions. She recalled her love for the fine arts as a student. She told herself that she would pursue her second love since she could not use her voice to sing. With this in mind, Kathy walked down another path: painting.
“I joined a group of painters called The Tuesday Group,” says Kathy. “At home, I had a tutor. I focused on painting but while I was painting, I’d listen to classical music. I felt so sad...I really wanted to sing. I was still longing to sing.”
For five long years, Kathy stopped singing. The doctor’s words clung to her like flies on sugar even though years had passed. She was still afraid to sing a tune. One day, a personal friend and music teacher encouraged her to sing again. “He said, ‘Why don’t you sing opera? When you sing opera, it’s a journey. [Many] start from childhood to develop the voice.’”
Kathy’s mi nd unfurled to the realm of opportunity. She took his advice and began singing once more, slowly but surely, developing her voice daily. She tried with all her might; her muse was the song Nella Fantasia. She listened to it every day and sang.
“My voice came out naturally, with no pain!” remembers Kathy. She also found a certain spark with opera not present with pop music. Her new voice led her to unchartered territory. Again, she sang—this time, classical. She sang in a multitude of languages, and with every practice, she grew more assertive. Even if difficult, she sang Italian songs because she knew they’d make her unassailable. She also embraced her heritage and fell in love with traditional Filipino songs with an ardor for kundiman.
“It’s like God allowed me to sing again,” she happily recounts, “I feel so good singing classical, so I never stopped singing.” Kathy made her fervent return to her true love: music. Her voice grew strong, and it was brilliant.
“I know for myself that I will continue to inspire people and touch their hearts through my art of singing,” says Kathy. Her powerful voice is as passionate as her spirit. Despite all the barriers and stumbling blocks, this sweetest soprano finally reached the castle in the sky.
Nisi metus, fermentum at lobortis vitae, congue id orci. Praesent aliquet lacus eu ipsum porta, ac sagittis nisl malesuada. Donec pretium nisi at sodales tincidunt. Proin maximus scelerisque est, a luctus risus imperdiet tempus. Suspendisse a ultrices ex. Sed lectus augue, egestas et orci sit amet, bibendum varius dui. In sagittis metus sed tincidunt porta.
Pellentesque viverra, lectus vitae finibus porttitor, dui arcu accumsan felis, a eleifend neque metus at enim. Morbi at dapibus nunc. Etiam in metus sapien. Sed hendrerit est elit, eget laoreet nunc accumsan ut. Mauris aliquam enim risus, vitae faucibus nunc porta porta. In ultricies quis erat a pretium. Ut id urna ultrices, consectetur tortor at, convallis magna. Suspendisse non nibh vitae metus pretium venenatis eu non nisi. Donec dolor neque, porttitor eget ex non, feugiat rutrum est.
Sed non venenatis risus. Donec ipsum mauris, iaculis vel fermentum quis, pulvinar sit amet justo. Duis eget velit eget ante placerat tempor vel at dolor. Fusce urna dui, rutrum quis scelerisque ut, aliquet eget nunc. Duis tortor quam, dignissim vel fringilla sed, efficitur sit amet purus. Suspendisse blandit et nulla quis volutpat. Suspendisse potenti. Quisque pretium, lorem ac tristique maximus, dui velit accumsan lacus, viverra elementum magna tortor non metus. Vivamus tristique blandit scelerisque. Curabitur eget pharetra orci. Nulla eget tellus volutpat, congue magna quis, placerat tortor. Nulla turpis metus, rhoncus elementum lacus a, lobortis varius neque.
Porro quisquam est qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit...
Quisque pretium, lorem ac tristique maximus, dui velit accumsan lacus, viverra elementum magna tortor non metus.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla non suscipit purus. In vitae tortor et enim posuere ullamcorper placerat in augue. Ut sollicitudin iaculis nibh vel luctus. Nulla bibendum accumsan felis, et mattis lectus commodo eu. Etiam tempor dolor felis, quis accumsan massa vestibulum nec. Duis accumsan auctor consequat. Aenean lorem augue, varius sed quam in, varius mattis justo.
Suspendisse a ultrices ex. Sed lectus augue, egestas et orci sit amet, bibendum varius dui. In sagittis metus sed tincidunt porta.
Pellentesque viverra, lectus vitae finibus porttitor, dui arcu accumsan felis, a eleifend neque metus at enim. Morbi at dapibus nunc. Etiam in metus sapien. Sed hendrerit est elit, eget laoreet nunc accumsan ut. Mauris aliquam enim risus, vitae faucibus nunc porta porta. In ultricies quis erat a pretium. Ut id urna ultrices, consectetur tortor at, convallis magna. Suspendisse non nibh vitae metus pretium venenatis eu non nisi. Donec dolor neque, porttitor eget ex non, feugiat rutrum est.
Sed non venenatis risus. Donec ipsum mauris, iaculis vel fermentum quis, pulvinar sit amet justo. Duis eget velit eget ante placerat tempor vel at dolor. Fusce urna dui, rutrum quis scelerisque ut, aliquet eget nunc. Duis tortor quam, dignissim vel fringilla sed, efficitur sit amet purus. Suspendisse blandit et nulla quis volutpat. Suspendisse potenti. Quisque pretium, lorem ac tristique maximus, dui velit accumsan lacus, viverra elementum magna tortor non metus. Vivamus tristique blandit scelerisque. Curabitur eget pharetra orci. Nulla eget tellus volutpat, congue magna quis, placerat tortor. Nulla turpis metus, rhoncus elementum lacus a, lobortis varius neque.
Porro quisquam est qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit...
“There is no one who loves pain itself, who seeks after it and wants to have it, simply because it is pain...”
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla non suscipit purus. In vitae tortor et enim posuere ullamcorper placerat in augue. Ut sollicitudin iaculis nibh vel luctus. Nulla bibendum accumsan felis, et mattis lectus commodo eu. Etiam tempor dolor felis, quis accumsan massa vestibulum nec. Duis accumsan auctor consequat. Aenean lorem augue, varius sed quam in, varius mattis justo.
TThey say that your mind can turn to oblivion, but music alone can resurrect a memory. It can whisper to a part of your brain that, long after decay, cannot hark the words of any other. Yet the soft songs of a bygone time may speak with its subject being Lazarus. Those who may harness the power of music are capable of raising the dead and, thus, are apt to draw on witchery.
Magicians walk the earth by the title of the musician. So where may we meet such an enchantress? First, let’s delve into a place rife with a history that has long shown an aptitude for the arts and birthed dozens of creators whose works still resonate within the hearts of the contemporary. The Pearl of the Orient is a tropical paradise where people sing like sirens from childhood, with voices that cannot compare. Those who compose and chorus make a memory like no other that will stay in the listener’s mind like embossing in stone, to remain there until death.
Enter Louisa “Loy” Afalla Tagudin, a maestro of the musical society who goes by her philosophy that “music is the language of the soul.” A faithful pursuivant of the arts since maidenhood, Loy—the daughter of its guides—spent her earliest days devoted to the study of song.
“The idea,” she recalls, “of being one step higher than our peers if we know music was inculcated in our minds. Men can indeed live without music, but I believe they cannot live as well.” Music, the language of the spirit, is the essence of it all. Loy believes that “once the passion burns within you, it will stay there wherever you go.”
The daughter of the late AFP Captain Anselmo P. Afalla Sr. and Aurora Jurado, Loy has lived a full life, a grand one, which has gifted her
“Music is love, and it makes the world go round.”
Louisa Tagudin
Musician - Uis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
wisdom. “At this stage, at age 76, that passion in me is immeasurable,” she says. “Performing and being recognized on stage gives me a feeling of fulfillment to be an inspiration to the younger generation.”
“Music,” says Loy, “is an emotional expression. When I write and arrange repertoire for my choir group, I make sure that my mind is clear and focused on my goal. Music brings people together in any activity to keep themselves happy, active, energetic, and feeling healthy.”
Music is more than vibrations in the air. It is part of a culture. And for a proud Filipino, Loy knows how to embrace it. “In my humble opinion,” the maestro says with pride, “with my experience working with other immigrants in Australia, I honestly believe that the Philippine culture is the topmost, the most beautiful culture ever when it comes to music, dance, drama, poetic interpretation and other works of art. Filipinos are well known in the field of music and the arts. Their kind of music, their choice of costumes, the grace [and] confidence they manifested in dancing and acting, their sense of creativity...superb!”
To spread art—love with the song of a culture— is one of the most beautiful things to someone such as Loy. “There are some ways to spread love by visualizing our own culture,” she explains. “Always remember that the best things in life are the people we love and how we secure them that they are special and important. Solidarity, sincerity, loyalty are strong allies hand[ed] down to us to spread love. By sharing our feeling[s] to someone, letting them feel that they are not alone through your kind of music.”
“Music is a part of my whole being that I cannot live well without it,” she says, “and it’s something that can affect other[s] just as well. In many ways, music reduces stress, especially when overworked. It gives quality sleep and walks one up feeling light and smarter.”
And so it extends to every part of the world. In 1987, Loy traveled to Australia. “I observed that my
new country is a melting pot of different migrants [and] of course of different cultures.” It’s hard for anyone to leave their own, but Loy found others like her to keep feeling herself while harmonizing with others.
Loy hosts a yearly concert to “inspire and encourage Filipino-Australians to experience their cultural heritage.” For Loy, remembering your origin is essential, especially when they have their arts. In addition, meeting others and others like you is the most excellent way to improve yourself and your creations.
“My experiences and challenges way back home as a trainer [and] conductor joining in competitions nationwide under the Ministry of Education and Culture have served as a way to make me wiser and turned me into the person I am today. Thanks to the people I have met in my life’s journey who believed in me more than I believe in myself. They are the source of my strength that pushed me to always give my best—the best of [the] Filipino in me. Thus the Sydney Sonata Singers Choir came into existence 15 years to date to help persevere and be proud of the Filipino culture.”
And how does it all help Loy to better a harsh world? “Ultimately, what counts most is the number of hearts we touched, the countless smiles we created, and the love we have shared because of our kind of music.” Essentially music is what betters the world, what connects people, and what reminds one of beauty, art, life, and culture. Music is what makes people share values that they might not otherwise and is a language that anyone can understand. It is a way to spread happiness and love.
“There is a saying,” she says, “that we cannot always choose the music life plays for us, but we can choose how we dance to it.” Therefore, it is of utmost significance to dance to your music and be happy along the way. Like Loy says, “Music is love, and it makes the world go round.”
“Ultimately, what counts most is the number of hearts we touched, the countless smiles we created, and the love we have shared because of our kind of music.”
LLollies and sweets, bonny treats, and toys line shop windows—little desires belonging to the child, whose mind is an oasis without worry. To feel the cold touch of metal in your hand, from a coin drawn from a small ceramic bank, it’s a simple pleasure, one that we lose as we grow older. As adults, we concern ourselves less with things we deem frivolities, such as candies and dolls, and fret about more things like food and housing. But, somehow, that little piggy bank is no longer enough to help us with money matters. As our lives get more sophisticated, so does our need for financial management.
Financial institutions like banks are essential for a cash-based society like the Philippines. However, most Filipinos prefer face-to-face transactions. This makes the bank an integral part of Philippine society.
The relationship between banker and client is crucial. First, the banker must gain the client’s trust. According to Myra Buensuceso, it is not an easy thing to form but one that requires effort, energy, and sincerity--but decades of experience make Myra a true veteran banker. Her branch is one of the busiest in her community which says something about Myra’s approach: sincerity and efficiency.
“At this point in time of my 28 years of banking life, I was able to help a lot of dear valued clients achieve their wealth that has prospered in their investments. My heart is full, finding them as happy customers,” Myra said. “I find it very meaningful, especially if our efficient banking approach made an impact by helping our clients increase their wealth through our diversified products and services. Even though it may be hard work, it’s worth it in the end. We do many follow-ups, cold calls, visits, and emails. With this, they feel the warm welcome of our presence. They gain trust and confidence that exceeds over many years of a good banking relationship.”
For Myra, banking is more than a way to help people—it’s a way to make friendships. “My purpose, I think, is to have an impact on other people’s lives,” she says. “The Lord Almighty blessed me this way so I can be a blessing to other people. I am just a channel for kindness, which is why I decided to go into banking—because a banker must be kind and a friend, more than just a worker. And a friend is someone you can trust. If you can build trust, you’re building something that can last, versus if you’re just building something for the sake of building now—you’re not making something that will be there for a while. And so you won’t get anything from it. You have to create pillars that are strong and long-lasting.”
Thanks to dedicated bankers like Myra, Filipinos will have a shoulder to lean on when it comes to finances and the realities of adulthood. With help from such a friend like Myra, we can learn to look at our wallet in a way that will make us feel better—maybe even bring back those lollies and sweets, and with the same manner of satisfaction.
Myra Buensuceso
Banker - Laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
TThere is beauty in antiquity. From relics of daily life to the skeletons of structures, it is all good and well to appreciate the past, for, without the olden days, there would be no present. Yet time goes on, and even I, in all my anachronism, discern that things go on—traces of the world that others knew fade and transform—everything starts to change. Nevertheless, there is still beauty in the past, a beauty that lays dormant, covered by the contemporary, and deserves a resurrection. We cannot shatter the realm of modernity, nor can we exchange the past and the present—and so what matters is integration.
Clothing. It is our shell and armor, the expression of the individual, and a language we may show ourselves. Since the days of yore, we’ve draped ourselves in cloth and deemed it fashion. But fashion is ever evolving. What was once fashionable has become “traditional” or vintage. The unique relationship between dressmaker and wearer has been replaced by stock sizes, synthetic styles, and standardized fits in this seething world of mass production. Some of us wonder, is there still a place for our native weaves and tradition? Delby Bragais clings to it with what she calls tradition with a modern twist. This designer loves to mix the old with the new, so traditions come alive in a constantly-changing contemporary world.
To wear a Delby Bragais creation is to support a cause, a devotion, alongside a bed of roses for all involved. Why? This bubbly designer claimed, “Because the world is the runway!” She is a promoter of positivity in her design, which she considers her reason for creating. “I think when you look at fashion, I can celebrate purpose, passion, and prosperity. [These] three things mean something to me.” These values carry her throughout the beautiful realm of raiment.
Delby’s purpose is to remember and embrace the culture. “I think that when you remember your roots, it makes you a more powerful person. It makes you more authentic. And I think people who celebrate their roots are people who have very torn values,” she explained. “It’s a part of who you are, it’s a part of your authenticity, it’s part of your individuality. When you look at it, it all goes back there. Your individuality,
and your roots, are a part of who you are! Celebrating culture is definitely fabulous.”
According to her, it is crucial to know precisely who you are. “There are some people that would rather present themselves as belonging to other cultures, or simply put, they don’t like celebrating their roots. And I just feel that it makes you more powerful, more different, and [it gives you a] more interesting personality if you embrace your culture.”
Delby is a proud Filipino, and it shows through her designs. “I remember showing a fashion week in Gotham Hall in New York, and this was the first time presenting in spring [or] summer [of] 2016, and one of the things I really made sure of when I was interviewed by the international press there, I made it very clear that I’m Filipino. And you can see that. There are traces of that in the collection. I just had to make sure that they knew that. So many fabrics there were hand-woven from my country, the Philippines.”
Purpose is more than just promoting your culture—it’s about encouraging those who keep traditions alive. “Support local artists, support local weavers,” Delby said, “because when you say purpose, I can use fashion as a vehicle for, like, helping small women’s communities in the provinces! The hand weavers are the ones that make only a few inches of fabric a day versus commercial fabric production. So it’s a way to support others and give a message.” For this designer, using native fabric from traditional weavers is a small step in embracing heritage.
Passion, according to Delby, is to have a zeal for what you do. “You know, I realized I had a passion for fashion. I really like transformations and before and afters, you know, it makes me feel happy!” said Delby. It also means taking pride in embracing her culture for use in contemporary times. She creates and weaves tradition into everyday clothes. “You can see Filipino influences, but it is not like a costume. It’s not a costumey thing,” she said.
Her customers love the special touches in her fashion. “It’s not a hundred percent traditional. I choose elements, design elements from the past, and from Filipino culture or Filipino traditions and incorporate them with modern touches.” For example, this means utilizing puff sleeves and native fabrics with a more modern frame.
“I’m more interested in [a] stylized look, which means it is not like in the olden days. This one is mixing traditional and a more contemporary, more modern take. It’s something I can use, you can use now, but you can see the influences.”
To Delby, prosperity means giving abundance to yourself and others. It also supports your country and fills it with joy and opulence. “There’s prosperity for you, prosperity for people that work for you—it’s an opportunity, really, to celebrate purpose, express passion, [and] cultivate prosperity. It can be a business that [can] be financially rewarding. This is being very honest. If you set it up right, it can be!” Fashion makes the designer and her clients feel good while earning her a life’s wages. It shows that following what you love will not dampen your life but instead manage to give it excitement.
Purpose, passion, and prosperity drive Delby. But one more thing can be attributed to her success in life. “Let me close by giving you a quote that always inspires me. And this is a quote from Albert Einstein. And he said: ‘Creativity is intelligence having fun.’ So my advice for all those aspiring fashion designers is just to have fun! Chill and enjoy life!”
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Sed non venenatis risus. Donec ipsum mauris, iaculis vel fermentum quis, pulvinar sit amet justo. Duis eget velit eget ante placerat tempor vel at dolor. Fusce urna dui, rutrum quis scelerisque ut, aliquet eget nunc. Duis tortor quam, dignissim vel fringilla sed, efficitur sit amet purus. Suspendisse blandit et nulla quis volutpat. Suspendisse potenti. Quisque pretium, lorem ac tristique maximus, dui velit accumsan lacus, viverra elementum magna tortor non metus. Vivamus tristique blandit scelerisque. Curabitur eget pharetra orci. Nulla eget tellus volutpat, congue magna quis, placerat tortor. Nulla turpis metus, rhoncus elementum lacus a, lobortis varius neque.
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“There is no one who loves pain itself, who seeks after it and wants to have it, simply because it is pain...”
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla non suscipit purus. In vitae tortor et enim posuere ullamcorper placerat in augue. Ut sollicitudin iaculis nibh vel luctus. Nulla bibendum accumsan felis, et mattis lectus commodo eu. Etiam tempor dolor felis, quis accumsan massa vestibulum nec. Duis accumsan auctor consequat. Aenean lorem augue, varius sed quam in, varius mattis justo.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Curabitur odio metus, ultricies in ipsum vitae, viverra tempor tortor. Etiam a lobortis magna. Sed mollis nibh quis congue maximus. Praesent blandit tincidunt velit, pretium consectetur arcu finibus vel. Phasellus id odio et velit placerat consectetur quis in lorem. Praesent nisi odio, ultricies eu venenatis lobortis, auctor non eros. Nam eget felis at justo mollis aliquet. Maecenas lorem nulla, interdum in sollicitudin non, ultrices in diam. Donec tristique magna ac ullamcorper ornare. Curabitur a ultrices turpis. Integer condimentum bibendum eros, at accumsan lectus tempor vel. Curabitur pellentesque nisi id arcu aliquet, eu laoreet augue interdum.
Aenean porttitor commodo massa, eu tristique nunc vehicula vitae. Nunc ac ex quis arcu mollis lacinia. Ut aliquet sapien a odio volutpat ultricies. Duis tempus interdum posuere. Aenean tincidunt lacus turpis. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Vivamus tincidunt pretium leo quis mollis. Nunc tempus luctus magna, at mattis mi pulvinar sit amet. Phasellus lectus enim, hendrerit vel risus quis, congue gravida ipsum. Sed ornare libero bibendum augue sodales mollis. Sed condimentum molestie eros et vulputate. Donec sit amet euismod sapien, a lacinia lectus. Sed efficitur tortor massa, sed egestas magna scelerisque nec. Praesent sit amet erat sit amet risus pharetra pharetra a at odio. Vestibulum luctus ullamcorper mi vitae cursus. Sed congue magna eu augue ullamcorper dictum. Ut facilisis lectus a nulla venenatis, in sollicitudin justo rhoncus. Donec placerat massa eu mi sollicitudin tincidunt. Phasellus eget ligula ornare purus hendrerit auctor. Vivamus tincidunt dictum viverra. Vestibulum venenatis posuere lacus, non tempor dui cursus id. Ut tristique libero vitae tristique imperdiet. Aenean nec tincidunt lectus. Suspendisse vel luctus quam, in elementum nibh.
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DDuis nisi metus, fermentum at lobortis vitae, congue id orci. Praesent aliquet lacus eu ipsum porta, ac sagittis nisl malesuada. Donec pretium nisi at sodales tincidunt. Proin maximus scelerisque est, a luctus risus imperdiet tempus. Suspendisse a ultrices ex. Sed lectus augue, egestas et orci sit amet, bibendum varius dui. In sagittis metus sed tincidunt porta.
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Sed non venenatis risus. Donec ipsum mauris, iaculis vel fermentum quis, pulvinar sit amet justo. Duis eget velit eget ante placerat tempor vel at dolor. Fusce urna dui, rutrum quis scelerisque ut, aliquet eget nunc. Duis tortor quam, dignissim vel fringilla sed, efficitur sit amet purus. Suspendisse blandit et nulla quis volutpat. Suspendisse potenti. Quisque pretium, lorem ac tristique maximus, dui velit accumsan lacus, viverra elementum magna tortor non metus. Vivamus tristique blandit scelerisque. Curabitur eget pharetra orci. Nulla eget tellus volutpat, congue magna quis, placerat tortor. Nulla turpis metus, rhoncus elementum lacus a, lobortis varius neque.
Porro quisquam est qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit...
“There is no one who loves pain itself, who seeks after it and wants to have it, simply because it is pain...”
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SSince its invention in 1895, the radio has been pioneering its way through the centuries. Yet, even with the newest innovations, the radio still holds sway over more than one area of the world—and what’s so special about it is how it brings information to those who would otherwise have none. One example is Pilipinas Ngayon, a long-running television and radio show with a colorful history.
Pilipinas Ngayon Na started as a radio segment. Six months after, it went on air as a TV show. Two awards later, it went into print as well. To date, Pilipinas Ngayon Na can also be seen on IZTV, Sky Cable Channel 72, TV Plus Channel 27, and GMA Affordabox Channel 32, and it can also be uploaded on Youtube and Facebook live stream.
“Pilipinas Ngayon Na program primarily tackles the importance of health and wellness. It focuses on complete physical, mental, emotional, social, financial, and spiritual well-being,” says Robert. According to him, their goal is “to deliver timely, accurate, inspiring, uplifting and truthful information to listeners and viewers.”
Unfortunately, many places in the Philippines need more resources, so it is harder to bridge the gap between being unknowing and informed. There needs to be more technology, especially in the country’s rural areas. Many places suffer from poverty, and television can be rare. “In the cities, people have access to many platforms, but in the provinces, it is different,” explains Robert. “But rural folks still have the radio, can you imagine that? Our signal is very strong, so it can reach many provinces, and we have reporters everywhere to give us all the information.”
The Southeast Asia Foundation gave the show an award for positive wholesome programming two years in a row. “Our arts and culture segment recognizes and promotes new and upcoming artists as well as celebrates the established ones,” explains Robert. “The show is like a launching pad that opens more doors of opportunities for our guests from various fields of endeavor. In addition, we showcase our very own pool of Filipino talents to let the world know about their respective gift to offer.”
Eliza adds, “Our objective is for our show to become a channel of blessing to our audience to gain through the valuable information, knowledge, and wisdom shared by guest speakers every episode.”
What makes this tandem extra special? The couple exemplifies respect. “First, we accept each other’s uniqueness.
Ismael Aviso Doctor of Complementary Medicine - Nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
NNature has always provided cure for the illnesses of mankind, but when modern or conventional medicine came, it took a back seat. For many years, conventional medicine turned its nose from holistic medicine, considering such as nonsense. But there has been a change of heart in the West in more recent years. According to an article in The Atlantic, many integrative medical-research clinics are being established in the United States, “42 of them at major academic medical institutions including Harvard, Yale, Duke, the University of California at San Francisco, and the Mayo Clinic.”
Otherwise known as complementary and alternative medicine, holistic medicine, is not unknown to the Filipino culture. Our closeness to nature and acceptance of Eastern philosophy make us open to natural medicine, which has been prevalent throughout history.
Ismael Aviso has been recognized as an official doctor of alternative medicine. It was something he worked hard to obtain for him to officially serve his fellow Filipinos. With great pride, he said, “I’ve had almost 400 patients, mostly people who went back and forth to the hospital. Some went for over ten years or so and nearly all of my patients after my first treatment feel better. In just a matter of weeks, many are completely different, and almost recovered.”
So how does Ismael do it? The secret lies in nature. Stunningly, there’s nothing whatsoever artificial in his methods. “I’ve found so far in this country I’m the one practicing exact naturopathy. I use natural means, organic goods, food supplements without synthetics. It’s the natural way to be healthy! Always keep your immune system healthy.” Ismael uses a lot of herbal formulations in his practice—but where did he get all this knowledge? Well, it started back in 1978.
“It was the middle of the night and my wife suffered from breathing issues, her face was so pale,” said Ismael. “It kept happening. I took her to more than seven hospitals and saw over 18 doctors. But they could not find the problem. I was then forced to study on my own. I bought several books, studied about herbal and alternative medicine and such, and gave my own treatment and her issues stopped. I became amazed with what I had done, kept reading books, formulated several things, and I studied.”
“We have health issues because of our bodies not working properly. We need good food and nutrients to help our blood. Regular medicine does not always work. The main thing for me is we need to use and respect the power of our healer. Our bodies have our healing systems. We just need to help them,” said Ismael.
Modern medicine is a miracle. Without it, millions of people thriving on this earth would’ve never been more than a husk. It has given humankind hope and longevity. However, just like everything in life, modern medicine is not without fail, and even more so, not every person can afford or access it. When our health is on the line, we must consider every possible cure, including complementary medicine. With the right approach and a knowledgeable practitioner to guide us in our wellness journey, a healthy body might just be attainable.
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Aenean porttitor commodo massa, eu tristique nunc vehicula vitae. Nunc ac ex quis arcu mollis lacinia. Ut aliquet sapien a odio volutpat ultricies. Duis tempus interdum posuere. Aenean tincidunt lacus turpis. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Vivamus tincidunt pretium leo quis mollis. Nunc tempus luctus magna, at mattis mi pulvinar sit amet. Phasellus lectus enim, hendrerit vel risus quis, congue gravida ipsum. Sed ornare libero bibendum augue sodales mollis. Sed condimentum molestie eros et vulputate. Donec sit amet euismod sapien, a lacinia lectus. Sed efficitur tortor massa, sed egestas magna scelerisque nec. Praesent sit amet erat sit amet risus pharetra pharetra a at odio. Vestibulum luctus ullamcorper mi vitae cursus. Sed congue magna eu augue ullamcorper dictum.
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purus hendrerit auctor. Vivamus tincidunt dictum viverra. Vestibulum venenatis posuere lacus, non tempor dui cursus id. Ut tristique libero vitae tristique imperdiet. Aenean nec tincidunt lectus. Suspendisse vel luctus quam, in elementum nibh.
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Vivamus tincidunt pretium leo quis mollis. Nunc tempus luctus magna, at mattis mi pulvinar sit amet. Phasellus lectus enim, hendrerit vel risus quis, congue gravida ipsum. Sed ornare libero bibendum augue sodales mollis. Sed condimentum molestie eros et vulputate. Donec sit amet euismod sapien, a lacinia lectus. Sed efficitur tortor massa, sed egestas magna scelerisque nec. Praesent sit amet erat sit amet risus pharetra pharetra a at odio. Vestibulum luctus ullamcorper mi vitae cursus. Sed congue magna eu augue ullamcorper dictum.
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PPorttitor commodo massa, eu tristique nunc vehicula vitae. Nunc ac ex quis arcu mollis lacinia. Ut aliquet sapien a odio volutpat ultricies. Duis tempus interdum posuere. Aenean tincidunt lacus turpis. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Vivamus tincidunt pretium leo quis mollis. Nunc tempus luctus magna, at mattis mi pulvinar sit amet. Phasellus lectus enim, hendrerit vel risus quis, congue gravida ipsum. Sed ornare libero bibendum augue sodales mollis. Sed condimentum molestie eros et vulputate. Donec sit amet euismod sapien, a lacinia lectus. Sed efficitur tortor massa, sed egestas magna scelerisque nec. Praesent sit amet erat sit amet risus pharetra pharetra a at odio. Vestibulum luctus ullamcorper mi vitae cursus. Sed congue magna eu augue ullamcorper dictum.
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Curabitur odio metus, ultricies in ipsum vitae, viverra tempor tortor. Etiam a lobortis magna. Sed mollis nibh quis congue maximus.
Praesent blandit tincidunt velit, pretium consectetur arcu finibus vel. Phasellus id odio et velit placerat consectetur quis in lorem. Praesent nisi odio, ultricies eu venenatis lobortis, auctor non eros. Nam eget felis at justo mollis aliquet. Maecenas lorem nulla, interdum in sollicitudin non, ultrices in diam. Donec tristique magna ac ullamcorper ornare. Curabitur a ultrices turpis. Integer condimentum bibendum eros, at accumsan lectus tempor vel. Curabitur pellentesque nisi id arcu aliquet, eu laoreet augue interdum.
Aenean porttitor commodo massa, eu tristique nunc vehicula vitae. Nunc ac ex quis arcu mollis lacinia. Ut aliquet sapien a odio volutpat ultricies. Duis tempus interdum posuere. Aenean tincidunt lacus turpis. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Vivamus tincidunt pretium leo quis mollis. Nunc tempus luctus magna, at mattis mi pulvinar sit amet. Phasellus lectus enim, hendrerit vel risus quis, congue gravida ipsum. Sed ornare libero bibendum augue sodales mollis. Sed condimentum molestie eros et vulputate. Donec sit amet euismod sapien, a lacinia lectus. Sed efficitur tortor massa, sed egestas magna scelerisque nec. Praesent sit amet erat sit amet risus pharetra pharetra a at odio. Vestibulum luctus ullamcorper mi vitae cursus. Sed congue magna eu augue ullamcorper dictum.
Proin nec sollicitudin diam. Sed auctor arcu id posuere pulvinar. Proin bibendum pretium feugiat. Pellentesque aliquet sed urna vitae molestie. Ut ac velit at arcu pellentesque efficitur. Suspendisse aliquet at odio ut dapibus. Sed vehicula a velit eget porttitor. Quisque eros turpis, iaculis id mauris sit amet, porta tempor mauris. Duis non rutrum tortor.
Curabitur odio metus, ultricies in ipsum vitae, viverra tempor tortor. Etiam a lobortis magna.
Donec sagittis convallis nulla, eget congue purus consequat eu. Nunc purus felis, pulvinar vitae efficitur id, venenatis vel magna. Ut at turpis dignissim dui luctus interdum nec quis elit. Pellentesque ac blandit ipsum.
Mauris sit amet massa viverra, tempor tortor ut, volutpat turpis. Aenean ac imperdiet urna. Proin nec sollicitudin diam. Sed auctor arcu id posuere pulvinar.
HHorttitor commodo massa, eu tristique nunc vehicula vitae. Nunc ac ex quis arcu mollis lacinia. Ut aliquet sapien a odio volutpat ultricies. Duis tempus interdum posuere. Aenean tincidunt lacus turpis. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Vivamus tincidunt pretium leo quis mollis. Nunc tempus luctus magna, at mattis mi pulvinar sit amet. Phasellus lectus enim, hendrerit vel risus quis, congue gravida ipsum. Sed ornare libero bibendum augue sodales mollis. Sed condimentum molestie eros et vulputate. Donec sit amet euismod sapien, a lacinia lectus. Sed efficitur tortor massa, sed egestas magna scelerisque nec. Praesent sit amet erat sit amet risus pharetra pharetra a at odio. Vestibulum luctus ullamcorper mi vitae cursus. Sed congue magna eu augue ullamcorper dictum.
Ut facilisis lectus a nulla venenatis, in sollicitudin justo rhoncus. Donec placerat massa eu mi sollicitudin tincidunt.
Mauris venenatis accumsan lacus, id dictum tellus tincidunt in. Fusce ac eleifend mauris, vulputate vestibulum eros. Praesent venenatis sagittis fermentum. Donec sagittis convallis nulla, eget congue purus consequat eu. Nunc purus felis, pulvinar vitae efficitur id, venenatis vel magna. Ut at turpis dignissim dui luctus interdum nec quis elit. Pellentesque ac blandit ipsum.
Mauris sit amet massa viverra, tempor tortor ut, volutpat turpis. Aenean ac imperdiet urna. Proin nec sollicitudin diam. Sed auctor arcu id posuere pulvinar. Proin bibendum pretium feugiat. Pellentesque aliquet sed urna vitae molestie. Ut ac velit at arcu pellentesque efficitur. Suspendisse aliquet at odio ut dapibus. Sed vehicula a velit eget porttitor. Quisque eros turpis, iaculis id mauris sit amet, porta tempor mauris. Duis non rutrum tortor.
Curabitur odio metus, ultricies in ipsum vitae, viverra tempor tortor. Etiam a lobortis magna. Sed mollis nibh quis congue maximus.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Curabitur odio metus, ultricies in ipsum vitae, viverra tempor tortor. Etiam a lobortis magna. Sed mollis nibh quis congue maximus. Praesent blandit tincidunt velit, pretium consectetur arcu finibus vel. Phasellus id odio et velit placerat consectetur quis in lorem. Praesent nisi odio, ultricies eu venenatis lobortis, auctor non eros. Nam eget felis at justo mollis aliquet. Maecenas lorem nulla, interdum in sollicitudin non, ultrices in diam. Donec tristique magna ac ullamcorper ornare. Curabitur a ultrices turpis. Integer condimentum bibendum eros, at accumsan lectus tempor vel. Curabitur pellentesque nisi id arcu aliquet, eu laoreet augue interdum.
Aenean porttitor commodo massa, eu tristique nunc vehicula vitae. Nunc ac ex quis arcu mollis lacinia. Ut aliquet sapien a odio volutpat ultricies. Duis tempus interdum posuere. Aenean tincidunt lacus turpis. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Vivamus tincidunt pretium leo quis mollis. Nunc tempus luctus magna, at mattis mi pulvinar sit amet. Phasellus lectus enim, hendrerit vel risus quis, congue gravida ipsum. Sed ornare libero bibendum augue sodales mollis. Sed condimentum molestie eros et vulputate. Donec sit amet euismod sapien, a lacinia lectus. Sed efficitur tortor massa, sed egestas magna scelerisque nec. Praesent sit amet erat sit amet risus pharetra pharetra a at odio. Vestibulum luctus ullamcorper mi vitae cursus. Sed congue magna eu augue ullamcorper dictum.
Ut facilisis lectus a nulla venenatis, in sollicitudin justo rhoncus. Donec placerat massa eu mi sollicitudin tincidunt. Phasellus eget ligula ornare purus hendrerit auctor. Vivamus tincidunt dictum viverra.
Vestibulum venenatis posuere lacus, non tempor dui cursus id. Ut tristique libero vitae tristique imperdiet. Aenean nec tincidunt lectus. Suspendisse vel luctus quam, in elementum nibh.
Mauris venenatis accumsan lacus, id dictum tellus tincidunt in. Fusce ac eleifend mauris, vulputate vestibulum eros. Praesent venenatis sagittis fermentum. Donec sagittis convallis nulla, eget congue purus consequat eu. Nunc purus felis, pulvinar vitae efficitur id, venenatis vel magna. Ut at turpis dignissim dui luctus interdum nec quis elit. Pellentesque ac blandit ipsum.
Mauris sit amet massa viverra, tempor tortor ut, volutpat turpis. Aenean ac imperdiet urna. Proin nec sollicitudin diam. Sed auctor arcu id posuere pulvinar. Proin bibendum pretium feugiat. Pellentesque aliquet sed urna vitae molestie. Ut ac velit at arcu pellentesque efficitur. Suspendisse aliquet at odio ut dapibus. Sed vehicula a velit eget
porttitor. Quisque eros turpis, iaculis id mauris sit amet, porta tempor mauris. Duis non rutrum tortor.
Ut aliquet sapien a odio volutpat ultricies. Duis tempus interdum posuere. Aenean tincidunt lacus turpis. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Vivamus tincidunt pretium leo quis mollis. Nunc tempus luctus magna, at mattis mi pulvinar sit amet. Phasellus lectus enim, hendrerit vel risus quis, congue gravida ipsum. Sed ornare libero bibendum augue sodales mollis. Sed condimentum molestie eros et vulputate. Donec sit amet euismod sapien, a lacinia lectus. Sed efficitur tortor massa, sed egestas magna scelerisque nec. Praesent sit amet erat sit amet risus pharetra pharetra a at odio. Vestibulum luctus ullamcorper mi vitae cursus. Sed congue magna eu augue ullamcorper dictum.
Ut facilisis lectus a nulla venenatis, in sollicitudin justo rhoncus. Donec placerat massa eu mi sollicitudin tincidunt.
Mauris venenatis accumsan lacus, id dictum tellus tincidunt in. Fusce ac eleifend mauris, vulputate vestibulum eros. Praesent venenatis sagittis fermentum. Donec sagittis convallis nulla, eget congue purus consequat eu. Nunc purus felis, pulvinar vitae efficitur id, venenatis vel magna. Ut at turpis dignissim dui luctus interdum nec quis elit. Pellentesque ac blandit ipsum.
Mauris sit amet massa viverra, tempor tortor ut, volutpat turpis. Aenean ac imperdiet urna. Proin nec sollicitudin diam. Sed auctor arcu id posuere pulvinar. Proin bibendum pretium feugiat. Pellentesque aliquet sed urna vitae molestie. Ut ac velit at arcu pellentesque efficitur. Suspendisse aliquet at odio ut dapibus. Sed vehicula a velit eget porttitor. Quisque eros turpis, iaculis id mauris sit amet, porta tempor mauris. Duis non rutrum tortor.
Curabitur odio metus, ultricies in ipsum vitae, viverra tempor tortor. Etiam a lobortis magna. Sed mollis nibh quis congue maximus.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Curabitur odio metus, ultricies in ipsum vitae, viverra tempor tortor. Etiam a lobortis magna. Sed mollis nibh quis congue maximus. Praesent blandit tincidunt velit, pretium consectetur arcu finibus vel. Phasellus id odio et velit placerat consectetur quis in lorem. Praesent nisi odio, ultricies eu venenatis lobortis, auctor non eros. Nam eget felis at justo mollis aliquet. Maecenas lorem nulla, interdum in sollicitudin non, ultrices in diam. Donec tristique magna ac ullamcorper ornare. Curabitur a ultrices turpis. Integer condimentum bibendum eros.
