fil-am who’s who FEBRUARY 2014
Joyce Penas Pilarsky
Filipina Couture Designer
Rommel del Rosario
Young Entrepreneur
Lemuel Sison
50th Birthday Bash
Ron Richer
Stockbroker by Day Arts Advocate by Night
In This Issue. . . Organizations We Love
A Word from The Editor
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Rommel del Rosario, Young Entrepreneur Cover Story: Joyce Penas Pilarsky Lemuel Sison’s 50th Birthday Bash Ron Richer, Financial Expert
Oliver Oliveros
Do the Right Thing
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In Graduate School at New York University, my former Theory, History, and Practice of Public Relations professor Fraiser Seitel, who is often invited to talk on national television practical topics such as media interview training for CEOs and executives and effective crisis communication strategies, and the author of about a dozen editions of “The Practice of Public Relations,” which every public relations practitioner should read, has ingrained in us—his former public relations students-cum-colleagues—to “always do the right thing.” Follow that cardinal rule whether you are in the midst of a stressful crisis, or smoothly running a corporate social responsibility campaign, in order to build a good reputation to any brand, personality, non-profit or for-profit organization.
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Photo by Rolan Gutierrez
Doing the right thing is not always easy—and not always popular—but apparently doing the right thing is also the chosen path to success of at least three of our featured personalities in the latest issue of Fil-Am Who’s Who: Beauty queen-fashion designer-environmentalist Joyce Penas Pilarsky, who may be Germany-based, but still hires locals in the Philippines to breathe life into her creative designs; prominent RDR Cargo’s Rommel del Rosario, who’s never embarrassed that he has had his share of bad business decisions, which made him wiser nonetheless; and our very own “sheep—not wolf—of Wall Street” stockbroker Ronald Richer, whose wealth management expertise is something he has been proud to share among the stereotypical struggling artists, who, unfortunately, are mostly clueless about the business side of the arts. Good job, Joyce, Rommel, and Ronald!
Renowned couture designer Joyce Penas Pilarsky graces the cover of Fil-Am Who’s Who. Cover photo by Von Buenconsejo of Speedlite Production, vonbuenconsejo.blogspot.com; hair & make up by Guilly Valenzuela of Signature by Guillano
Kudos also to our truly hardworking Filipino-American performers on Broadway Frenie Acoba, who plays Lavender, the best friend of the precocious Matilda in Roald Dahl’s “Matilda” on Broadway, which I saw on February 12, and Adam Jacobs, who shines in the title role in Disney Theatrical Group’s latest show on Broadway, “Aladdin,” which I saw on its first preview, February 26. Expect vibrant choreography, countless costume changes, literally grand entrances, and parodies of Disney’s own franchises in “Aladdin.” Bring the whole family! Lastly, congratulations to the people behind the Build A Shelter Project—The Philippine Consulate General in New York, Philippine Jesuit Foundation, and Gawad Kalinga—for raising more than $223K in three months. The funds will be used in rebuilding the lives of typhoon Haiyan survivors in Samar, Philippines. We invite Fil-Am Who’s Who readers to contribute articles, letters, comments , or pictures. Please email submissions to filamwhoswho@gmail.com.
We use information sources that we believe to be reliable, but do not warrant the accuracy of those sources. Reasonable care is taken to ensure that Fil-Am Who’s Who articles and other information on the website are up-to-date and accurate as possible, as of the publication date.
fil-am who’s who 2 FIL-AM WHO’S WHO
FEBRUARY 2014
STAFF Editor-in-Chief Oliver Oliveros • Managing Editor Myrna Gutierrez • Layout Artist & Photo Editor Rolan Gutierrez • Marketing/Sales Director & Columnist Ollie David • Marketing/ Sales Executive & Columnist Prospero A. Lim, MD • Contributing Writer Maricar CP Hampton • Publisher Fil-Am Who’s Who, Inc. Copyright © 2013 Fil-Am Who’s Who, Incorporated. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Fil-Am Who’s Who invites you to contribute articles, letters, comments, or pictures to the editor. Please email submissions to filamwhoswho@gmail.com. For advertising inquiries, please email
adsfilamwhoswho@gmail.com or call (732) 499-7995, (917) 502-9887, or (917) 502-9891.
KNOW THOSE WHO LOVE YOU L
Ollie’s Grapevine Ollie David
ove is the finest of all gifts. Embrace those who truly love you because there are only few in a lifetime. Then return that love tenfold, radiating it from the heart to fill their lives as sunlight warms the darkest corners of the earth. Love is a journey, not a destination. Travel its path daily. Do this and your troubles will be as fleeting as the wind. Love is being happy for the other person when that person is happy; or being sad for the other person when that person is sad. Love is being together in good times, and being together in bad times, too. Love is the excitement that comes when planning and doing things together; it is about giving and taking, and being patient with each other’s needs and desires. Love is knowing that the other person will always be with you no matter what; or missing the other person when that person is away. Love is the source of life. We are so happy to be back home from the medical mission of the Philippine Medical Association of America (PMAA) in Camarines Sur in the Philippines, the hometown of PMAA President Ben Sales and his wife, Fe. The experience was very rewarding and unforgettable. We were introduced to Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges President Dr. Dulce Atian, and the school’s band and very talented and beautiful cheerleaders; Municipality of Nabua Mayor Delia Simbulan; and 5th District of Camarines Sur Congressman Salvio Fortuno and his staff.
THE POWER OF LOVE
LOVE is the strongest and most fulfilling emotion possible It lets you share your goals, your desires, your experiences It lets you share your life with someone It lets you be yourself with someone who will always support you It lets you speak your innermost feelings to someone who understands you It lets you feel tenderness and warmth – a wholesome that avoids loneliness LOVE lets you feel complete – Susan Polis Schutz
Mayor Simbulan, who is very lovely and energetic, and Dr. Atian, who is gorgeous, witty, and brilliant, we sincerely thank you from the bottom of our hearts. The food and entertainment were first-rate!
Ollie’s Attendance Sheet Photos by Ollie David
Arrival at Naga Airport (L-R): Dr. Edgar Lerias, Ollie David, PMAA President Dr. Ben Sales, Noel, Aniano Rabe
Dinner in Makati City: (L-R) Drs. Joe and Stella Evangelista, Dr. Nancy Alcala, Dr. Elenita Binay (Vice President Binay’s wife), Ollie David, Dr. Ramon Alcala, and Ms. Roxas
PMAA Pharmacy Dept.: Dr. Ned and Menchie Pulido, Fe Sales, Nabua Mayor Delia Simbulan, Lee, Dr. Joe Quintos’ sister, Ollie David, Dr. Joe Quintos, CSPC President Dr. Dulce Atian, and Dr. Ben Sales
Welcome Dinner: Standing (L-R): Menchie Pulido, Dr. Prospero Lim, Dr. Ben Sales, Nabua Mayor Delia Simbulan, CSPC President Dr. Dulce Atian, Dr. Ned Pulido, Dr. Buddy Arguilla. Seated (L-R): Rev. Fr. Mike Lagrimas, Aniano Rabe, Dr. Aida Arguilla F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 4 FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 3
Organizations We Love
GAWAD KALINGA and SIMBANG LINKOD NG BAYAN
Forging Ties In Building Houses for Typhoon Haiyan Survivors
G
Photos Courtesy of the Philippine Consulate General NY
awad Kalinga Community Development Inc. (GK), a Philippine-based movement that envisions the end of poverty for five million families by 2024, and Simbahang Lingkod Ng Bayan (SLB), a nonpolitical, Philippine Jesuit Foundation-led organization committed to the service of Filipinos and the Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines, are devoted to building 36 new houses, estimated at $107K, in Pinasuan, Hernani, Eastern Samar, which was devastated by the recent “killer typhoon” Haiyan (Yolanda).
Donation from Jaycees Philippines NY: (L-R) Co-conveners Nimfa Tinana and Vivian Talambiras-Cruz, Shirley Domingo and Sonny Ramirez of GK USA, Roger Alama, Consul General Mario de Leon, Jaycees Philippines NY President Zultan Bermudez, Deputy Consul General Zaldy Patron, Vice Consul Khrys Corpuz, and Ferdinand Suba ESQ
Mario Lopez de Leon Jr., Philippine Consul General to New York, recently visited the Philippines to personally attend the signing of a memorandum of agreement between GK and SLB by way of the Build A Shelter Project (BASP)-US Northeast movement, which was launched in the aftermath of typhoon Haiyan to aid the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the typhoon-affected communities in central Philippines.
“We can now begin constructing the much needed permanent shelters for the typhoon survivors in Hernani, Eastern Samar. I’m extremely grateful to all organizations and individuals who have donated to BASP, which will continue to raise funds to build more villages in other areas such as in Giporlos, Eastern Samar,” says Consul de Leon, whose office initiated the movement, together with leaders from various Filipino American communities.
Conveners Nimfa Tinana, Vivian Talambiras-Cruz, and Dean Suba with Consul General Mario de Leon at the launch of Build A Shelter Project
“God is truly good! We have raised more than $223K so far, while our initial goal for the project was only $10K,” adds Vivian Talambiras-Cruz, a convener of BASP.
Donations came from K-Media, a radio network in Queens; Korea Daily News’ 1004 Foundation; and other charitable institutions. Alex Go, who hails from Giporlos, Eastern Samar, has also donated one hectare of land in his hometown.
Memorandum of agreement signing: (Seated L-R) GK Executive Director Luis Oquinena and SLB President Fr. Javy Alpasa; (Standing L-R) Consul General Mario de Leon and GK Chairman Tony Meloto
Prospective donors may still send donations payable to Philippine Jesuit Foundation with “Yolanda Calamity Fund-Build A Shelter Project” in the memo line c/o the Philippine Consulate General Cultural Section at 556 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10036. (L-R) Jose Ma. Montelibano (GK), Alex Go, Fr. Javy Alpasa (SLB), Consul General Mario de Leon, Tony Meloto (GK), Luis Oquinena (GK), and Jaja Oquinena (GK) 4 FIL-AM WHO’S WHO F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 4
For more information, email
phcongen.newyork@gmail.com.
Never Fear Making Mistakes By Oliver Oliveros
Photo by Rolan Gutierrez
uccessful young entrepreneur Rommel del Rosario, whose fast-growing freight shipping company’s name— RDR Cargo and Logistics—is based on his initials, does not regret looking back at the mistakes he made in the recent past because as smart businessman as he is, he has made mistakes; learned from those experiences; and vowed to never cross those blunders again. “My first crack at freight shipping business was only three years ago; I was working as a distribution agent for some people here in New York, and I didn’t know that those men were fly-by-night operators,” del Rosario reveals to Fil-Am Who’s Who. “It was a big mistake. I wanted to make things right. So I did my research and forged partnership with LCSN.” LCSN Express Movers Inc., which is based in the Philippines, has more than 10 years of professional experience as a fully licensed freight forwarding company.
LICENSED AND ACCREDITED BY THE PHILIPPINE SHIPPERS BUREAU YORK PA & Neighboring Twn James Laygo - 717.654.3254
NEW YORK OFFICE: 39-12 A 63rd Street, Woodside NY BERGENFIELD NJ OFFICE: 76 S. Washington Ave. Bergenfield NJ JERSEY CITY NJ OFFICE : 449 Hoboken Ave. Jersey City NJ 07306
TOMS RIVER NJ RJ SARILING ATIN 4561 Lakewood Rd. Toms River NJ 08755 NILO– 732.642.0513
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS CONNECTICUT, UPSTE NY SURE PINOY STORE 145 Water St. Quincy MA JUN - 617.328.8880 339.793.0668
DELAWARE BALAN STORE 867 S. Dupont Hway New Castle DE 19720 FORT WASHINGTON MD BALAN– 302.757.1431 737 Cady drive, Fort Washington MD 20744 MARYLAND NOTTINGHAM NOLI– 301.248.8807 MANILA SEAFOOD & MARKET (MD,DC,VA,GA, FL) 8836 Belair Rd. Nottingham MD 21236 LONG ISLAND DON - 410.529.0663 FIESTA FOOD MARKET 14 W. Merrick Rd. (Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Valley Stream NY 11580 Hartford County & all over MD) Buboy - 516.872.4677 Pete 443.527.2274
Finding an ally in LCSN, del Rosario’s flagship company, RDR Cargo and Logistics, was formed in HERSHEY,Harrisburg, Northern VA, DC, Montgomery Mechanicsburg PA Prince George County of MD August 2011. From a small pop-up Mimi-717.813.0538 ROCKY - 571.419.8489 store at Grand Avenue, Queens, RDR Cargo has opened two stores in New Jersey (one in Jersey City; the other in Bergenfield, NJ) and a store in Woodside, Queens, whose combined accumulated packages can fill up an entire 40-foot shipping container every week; has acquired a truck and four cargo vans; has signed up authorized distribution agents from coast to coast; has begun offering various travel packages; and has been contemplating of expanding operations to the United Kingdom in a span of nearly three short years!
Also the former CEO of Recall Paintball franchise in Davao City, del Rosario, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Engineering from Ateneo de Davao University, attributes his relatively newfound business success in the city that never sleeps by sticking to his planned goals; spending quality time in market research; hiring the right employees; and—once again—never fearing to commit mistakes. “I have not failed. I have just found 10,000 ways that would not work,” del Rosario quotes Thomas Edison, who has been an inspiration to the Filipino businessman.
Del Rosario, in fact, is honest enough to admit that shelling out about $30,000 from his own savings when his company led the recent relief efforts in typhoon-stricken central Philippines was unforeseen, but could have been done with less money paid for extra labor and transportation costs. “I have no regrets about doing it; but next time, I’ll just park several trucks in front of my stores, where people can leave their donations, instead of having the trucks running around,” he says—a nugget of practical wisdom well said from an inspirational entrepreneur who is indeed not afraid to take risks; bold enough to admit mistakes; and move on from them.
Rommel del Rosario extends his special thanks to LCSN Express Movers Inc., his partner, and family friends Jonathan Naniong and Lenie Naniong.
Visit rdrcargo.com. FEBRUARY 2014
FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 5
Young singer-pianist Reign Acedera entertains guests at the Philippine Consul General’s residence.
December January Rewind
PIDCI’s 2014 Grand Marshals Drs. Emilio and Fely Quines (leaning over the sofa) were introduced during the “Evening with the Consul General.”
Rolan Gutierrez
Department of Tourism OIC Mitch Dy, Philippine Trade Rep. Michelle Sanchez, and Philippine American Chamber of Commerce Board Member Agnes Jamora
Ria Serrano and Kay Habana at the latter’s first
F E B R U A R Y Klassic 2014 concert “Christmas with Kay Habana” 6soloFIL-AM WHO’S WHO
Team Ugly Kitchen at Inuman at Pulutan trade event
“Haiyan” Fundraiser at Hilton, Staten Island (L-R) Steve Derodar, Aniano Rabe, Dr. Prospero Lim, Ollie David, Consul General de Leon, Fe Martinez, Myrna Gutierrez, Marietta Lamar, Albert Diala, and Katherine Bartow
“Haiyan” Fundraiser at Hilton, Staten Island (L-R) Vice Consul Khrys Corpuz, Owners of Nicotra Group LLC and Hilton Garden Inn Lois and Richard Nicotra, Consul General de Leon, Fe Martinez, Ollie David, and Myrna Gutierrez
Father Patrick Longalong delivers an inspirational talk at a fundraiser for Paaralang Pinoy.
Fil-Am Press Club of New York’s induction of officers (L-R) Butch F E B R U A R Y Rivera, 2 0 1 4 FIL-AM Gata, Consul General de Leon, Monette Momar WHO’S WHOVisaya, 7 Tambi Wycoco, and Randy Gener
Joyce Penas Pilarsky Filipina and Proud
By Maricar CP Hampton Photos by Rolan Gutierrez Multitalented artist and beauty queen Joyce Penas Pilarsky is living a purposeful life. In fact, she continues to pursue her dreams and at the same time spread God’s love be it in modeling, fashion and jewelry, design, visual arts, or writing a book with gusto! Joyce believes commitment and dedication is the key to her success. “All I do is made with a lot of love and passion,” she says. Even as a young child, Joyce already showed a strong interest in the arts. “I was always singing. I used to play with my paper dolls and draw beautiful clothes for them. I was also into painting. My school grades in the arts, music, and writing were my highest.” Born and raised in the Philippines, she first worked as a flight attendant for Philippine Airlines and Saudi Arabian Airlines. She was also a commercial and fashion model before becoming a prolific fashion and jewelry designer. Last year, Joyce received the People’s Choice Award and named Miss International Ambassador at the 2013 MWI (Magnificent Women Icons) International, the premier pageant for women over 35.
Joyce, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education, never really had any formal training in fashion designing; but with the encouragement of her family and friends, she decided to make a jump into the fashion world. “Like I said earlier, I started designing for my dolls and later for me and my family, and then for my friends. My friends would always tell me that they loved my clothes; so they eventually asked me to design for them. I have designed a lot of wedding dresses for my friends,” she shares.
She continues, “I didn’t go to a fashion design school, but I read a lot about the different designers that inspire me. But I don’t want to copy their work. I want to have my own designs because I want to be me and not anybody else. I’m not good with machines; I do everything by hand, which takes a lot of time.”
Today, she is making waves in the fashion industry by creating cocktail dresses, gowns, and jewelry with a unique style. She describes her collection as colorful, daring, and sophisticated. “My collections are always full of colors, which make one happy. That’s the purpose of my fashion design: Make a woman happy wearing my creation because it gives her confidence by looking sexy and gorgeous at the same time elegant and stylish. Despite the stiff competition in the fashion scene, Joyce’s creations have gained international recognition in Paris, Germany, and the United States.
Recently, she mounted not one but two fashion shows at the Brooklyn Fashion Week. “According to the directors of the fashion event, they received thousands of applications from different designers around the world, but they only invited a few that’s why I was honored and proud to showcase my work here,” she says.
In New York, Joyce chose to incorporate the Filipino flare by making use of native materials. “I used pina, abaca, and habing Iloco fabrics. I wanted to show wearable daywear and something ‘sexy’ that you can wear to a dinner date.”
In creating her designs, Joyce gets her inspiration from nature and everything around her. “For wearable day and evening dresses, I use very nice colors; do a lot of embroideries; and use stones and sequins. I use insects and birds as motif for bracelets and necklaces that match the flowers on my dresses.”
Accomplished as she is, Joyce always tries to give back to her kababayans. She has been hiring Filipino women as weavers and embroiders for her many projects. “I purposely use local materials because a lot of Filipino women ask for my help to give them jobs as skilled workers. In doing so, these women can send their children to school, and we can further promote Filipino products.”
Asked how she plans to connect to the discriminating taste of Filipino Americans in New York? “Being a Filipina myself, I’m positive that they will support me. I would be designing more Filipiniana dresses here because you have a lot of functions and parties that showcase our mestiza gowns,” she says.
Away for the all the glitz and glamour of the fashion world, Joyce, together with husband, Gunter, a successful businessman, is actively involved in the Joyce and Gunter Pilarsky Foundation, which supports aid projects in the Philippines and other countries.
The second of seven children of lawyer Felix Million Penas and Soledad Javellana Nonato Penas, Joyce never ceases to dream big. In 2012, she became an author of the health book “YSG! Young, Sexy & Gorgeous!” which introduces the concept of good health as the basis of staying young and beautiful. Proceeds of the book, now available on Amazon.com, go to a vocational school in Bustos, Bulacan.
This year, she plans to put up a one-woman show in Manila showcasing all her creations. “There are many things I still want to do. But of course I pray for it a lot because the Good Lord might have other plans for me. It is always God who makes things happen,” she says.
Joyce Penas Pilarsky Couture Designer
Scandic Palace 4291 Emilia St. Palanan, Makati City Philippines: (02)-511-0620 Mobile: 09178201954 Germany : +00491727623806 www.joycepilarsky.com/ www.facebook.com/JPPDaringCollections twitter.com/JPilarsky
Photos by Shawn Punch
FEBRUARY 2014
FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 9
Milestones & Moments
L
Medical Technologist
LEMUEL SISON Celebrates 50th Birthday By Oliver Oliveros
Photos by Rolan Gutierrez
Seasoned medical technologist Lemuel Sison, who is originally from Manila, Philippines, and has been working with Nassau University Medical Center’s microbiology department for more than 20 years, stylishly celebrated his 50th birthday with his family, friends, and co-workers in Long Island’s premier event venue Verdi’s at Westbury last December. Lemuel Sison
Partaking the sumptuous array of food and non-stop entertainment, which reached fever pitch with the eye-popping belly dancing by a professional talent and Lemuel’s wife, Vannie, were the who’s who in attendance that included Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI) President Fe Martinez; PIDCI Directors Ollie David, Margie Wisotsky, and Dr. Prospero Lim; Garden State Filipino American Association President Francis Sison; United Team Maharlika President Rene Ballenas, who also emceed the jovial party; and friends from the various pathology departments of Nassau University Medical Center, Sunrise Medical Laboratory, Quest Diagnostics, Core Lab of North Shore, and New York Hospital Queens. Lemuel, the fourth child of Mr. and Mrs. Leopoldo Sison who hail from Iloilo and Mindoro, Philippines, respectively, graduated from the Adventist University of the Philippines (formerly Philippine Union College) with a bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology. After graduation, he soon landed his first job at Saint Luke’s Medical Center in Manila.
First dance set to the music of “Now & Forever” by Richard Marx
In the United States, he has built his medical technology-focused career starting with the Queens General Hospital, which eventually led him to a more long-term employment at Nassau University Medical Center, where he has been immersed with the rapidly changing world of clinical microbiology.
Lemuel balances his successful medical career and volunteer work with a happy family life. The Sison children: Kyle Martin, Leighvanni Allison, and Kevin Lester
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FEBRUARY 2014
Lemuel needing some help with the candles
A toast for good health by Lemuel’s youngest son Kyle
Emcee Rene Ballenas and wife Cynthia
Lemuel celebrates with friends and colleagues from Nassau University Medical Center, Sunrise Medical Lab, New York Hospital Queens, New York University, Quest Diagnostics and North Shore-LIJ pathology departments.
A selfless volunteer in various Filipino American community projects, Lemuel balances his successful medical career and volunteer work with a happy family life. He is married to blood donor specialist Vannie for 25 years, with whom he has three wonderful children: Kevin Lester, who is attending St. John’s University in the Fall to pursue a degree in Homeland and Corporate Security; Leighvanni Allison, who is studying economics and member of honor society Sigma Alpha Delta at Baruch College; and Kyle Martin, who is a junior at Flushing High School, and a receiver-cornerback for the school’s football varsity team. During days off, Lemuel travels with his wife; sings; scuba dives; cuddles Maddie, the family’s four-year-old maltipoo; and plays tennis and basketball with the Park Boys of NY.
FEBRUARY 2014
FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 11
RON RICHER Stockbroker by Day Arts Advocate by Night By Oliver Oliveros
M
anhattan stockbroker Ronald Richer, who studied economics and film at Binghamton University, a premier public university in the Northeast, has his priorities right: Grow his roster of affluent clients for his lucrative, rewarding practice as a seasoned stockbroker; raise his only daughter, Chloe, and his only son, William, the best way that he can; and spread the joy of art among fledgling artists and their arts’ current and prospective consumers. In Richer’s own words, he aptly labels himself as a “stockbroker by day, a happiness creator by night.”
Born and raised in the Philippines, Richer, whose parents died when he was young, grew up living with his grandmother in a household that did not tolerate spoilt behavior; rather, did seek to encourage self reliance and independent thinking. An early appreciation for the arts did engrave a soft spot for artists in him as well.
A founder of two companies, For-Solutions, a web hosting and email management company, and B&R Group, LLC, a license distribution company for Zo-on Iceland, a sports apparel company, Richer, on the one hand, believes that any working professional, whether it be in the field of financial consulting, or in the directly opposite field of non-profit community volunteerism, should ultimately pursue what would make the person happy. Richer’s newly established company Fashion Art Music Movies Now (FAMMnow) does just that: FAMMnow brings this happy balance to Richer’s family and work life. “The company promotes happiness in our lives by helping young, old, and transitional artists to showcase their work and share snapshots of their happiest moments of passion.”
Photo by Rolan Gutierrez
Such insightful look at people and business, on the other hand, has also made Richer a smart, trustworthy, and dependable stock purchase strategist for the past 15 years among his more than 400 private clients gained through his longtime employer, Global Arena Investment Management LLC, which provides innovative investment strategies that use the latest asset allocation and risk management techniques, which in turn can significantly reduce risk, and generate a substantially higher return of investment. “I started with not a single customer in 2001, 2004, and 2006 and built a customer base of more than 100 clients in each firm I was involved with within 14 months by developing a strong rapport with potential customers—finding their particular needs, and matching their needs with specific products,” recalls Richer, who is currently the vice president for Global Arena Investment Management’s private client group. “Every investor should be provided with a well-informed financial advisor—someone whom the investor can confidently depend on for only the unbiased, conflict-free wealth investment advice,” he says.
For more information about
Global Arena Investment Management, visit globalarenaim.com;
He continues, “Originally, I wanted to start a nonprofit organization, but it got too crazy with the bureaucracy. So I decided to start a for-profit company where I could fund everything and distribute the profit to people and/or organizations that I believe need financial aid the most. My definition of ‘charity’ is singularly defined—may be completely different from yours. I prefer to veer away from donating to ‘traditional charities’. FAMMnow shares its funds directly to the end recipient.”
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FEBRUARY 2014
for
FAMMnow, visit fammnow.com.
The World is My Oyster
Dr. Prospero A. Lim
Medical Mission in Camarines Sur This year the Philippine Medical Association of America’s (PMAA) medical mission pushed through — amid earlier logistical issues — in Nabua, Camarines Sur, the hometown of PMAA President Ben Sales Jr. on February 1 and 2. With our eyes fixed on our kababayans who needed medical assistance, the ultimate trooper in us defied several inconveniences along the way; and it was so worth it. Suffice it to say that the medical mission was one for the books and will not be easily forgotten by some of the mission volunteers. This year’s medical mission, which we regularly conduct, turned out to be successful. Thanks to all the help of Ms. Delia Simbulan, Nabua’s town mayor; Dr. Dulce Atian, Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges’ super energetic president, who also allowed us to use the school’s auditorium and avail of the invaluable assistance of the school’s nursing students; Dr. Sales’ brother and relatives; and Nabua’s elected town officials. Kudos to both Dr. Sales and his wife, Fe, for working so hard for the success of the medical mission. At the mission center, we saw a good number of townspeople-patients, and provided much needed medical services to them. Dr. Atian entertained us with her beautiful karaoke singing during lunch breaks. The cultural entertainment prepared by Mayor Simbulan and her officials was truly something to behold. It was extra special because we were joined by the Nabua locals who came to avail of our free medical services earlier in the day. After the medical mission, we toured the City of Naga and nearby places. On the next day we left for Legazpi City and saw the beautiful Mayon Volcano—its perfect cone speaks of its glorious splendor! We also visited Manila to spend the rest of our days in the Philippines on our own.
hAPPY Happy SHOOTING Shooting StarSTAR
Rolan Rolan Gutierrez Gutierrez
rolan gutier-
SHOOTER’S TIP
I took this picture of my charming model Ria Martin with her face leaning diagonally, which was taken at an event location in the Bronx. I used my reliable light source--my cell phone-to brighten up Ria’s face and focused on her eye that was closest to my lens. Ria’s lovely painted bright red lips have added an element of attraction to this photo.
Happy shooting! FEBRUARY 2014
FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 13
Community Calendar
April 27 An Evening of OPM with Cecile Azarcon and Sounds of Manila Synergy Productions and Marketing Inc. will pay tribute to the timeless songs of OPM luminary Cecile Azarcon, featuring the multi-award winning band Sounds of Manila, at Peter Norton Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway and 95 St, New York, NY at 7:00pm. Tickets $35, $45 and $60. Call 212-864-5400.
March 15 PIDCI Grand Marshal Gala Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI) will fete this year’s Grand Marshals Drs. Emilio and Felicisima Quines at 7:00pm, World Astoria Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd, Astoria, NY. For more information, contact Dr. Prospero Lim 347 248 5106, Ollie David 732 499 7995, Nelia Ferrette 917 406 0839, or Angie Molina 718 875 2901.
May 17 Il Divo and Lea Salonga in Concert in Atlantic City Tony winner and the Philippines’ pride Lea Salonga will join the operatic pop vocal group Il Divo in concert at Borgata Event Center in Atlantic City, NJ at 8:00pm. Tickets $75-$175, visit ildivo.com/us/events.
March 1 Piano and Flute Recital at National Opera Center Filipino pianist Hector Martinez and flautist Stephen Josephs will perform works by Bach, Hindemith, Messiaen, Chopin, and Brahms, among others at the National Opera Center, 330 7 Ave, New York, NY at 7:00pm. Tickets $15, call 212-796-8630.
March 23 Feast Day of San Pedro Calungsod The Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz, 378 Broome St, New York, NY will celebrate the feast day of San Pedro Calungsod: Novena at 1:00pm, Holy Mass at 2:15pm. For more information, email vicky. baxa@gmail.com. April 6 San Pedro Calungsod Procession, Mass, and Reception Drs. Jose and Violeta Quintos invite you to the second annual fiesta of San Pedro Calungsod. Msgr. Oscar Aquino, JCD will be the main celebrant. The celebrations will start at 3:30 pm, Immaculate Conception Church, 86-45 Edgerton Blvd, Jamaica Estates, NY 11432
May 2 Miguel Braganza Celebrates 30 Years in Theater Theater actor and performance coach Miguel Braganza will celebrate his 30th anniversary in the biz via SALAMAT, SALAMAT, NEW YORK dinner show at Sheraton La Guardia East Hotel, 135-20 39 Ave, Flushing, NY at 7:30pm. Tickets $65 and VIP $125, call Debbie 551-998-8445 or Myrna 917-502-9887.
May 31 Deadline of Submission: 2014 Presidential Awards for Overseas Filipinos The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) opens nominations for the 11 Presidential Awards for Filipino individuals and organizations overseas. For more information, visit presidentialawards.cfo.gov.ph. Ongoing Candidacy Application for 2014 Mrs. Kalayaan and Diwa ng Kalayaan Pageants Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI) is accepting candidacy applications for this year’s Mrs. Kalayaan (married or formerly married Filipinas) and Diwa ng Kalayaan (single Filipinas) pageants. For more information, email Albert Diala at acdiala@aol.com or Rolly Postadan at rolster299@ymail.com.
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917 917..502 502..9887 9887 filamwhoswho@gmail.com filamwhoswho@gmail.com www.filamwhoswho.com www.filamwhoswho.com
WHO We Are
We’re Now A One-Stop-Shop Media Company
Fil-Am Who’s Who, your favorite lifestyle magazine, is only one year old; but we feel we have so much more to offer beyond the magazine. Thus we recently expanded our publishing company’s products and services from the monthly magazine to public relations and social media management, photography and videography, journal and website production, and event management, and instant photo print services. Of note, our instant photo print service has proved to be a big hit at various Filipino-American community events. Attendees to these events are photographed by professional photographer Rolan Gutierrez; photo prints—enclosed in classy cardboard frames—are made available in just a few minutes for an affordable price. Dr. Prospero A. Lim With more than 50 years of combined experience in media and communication, Fil-Am Who’s Who Inc.’s experienced senior staff members Oliver Oliveros, Rolan Gutierrez, Joseph Pe, and Myrna Gutierrez — under the able guidance of Dr. Prospero Lim and Ollie David — assure our growing list of clients only quality outputs and consistent communication campaigns from corporate headshots to single, multiple camera event coverage; from publicity efforts to social media engagement; Oliver Oliveros and from brand positioning to integrated marketing communications. Dr. Prospero A. Lim, former president of the University of Santo Tomas Medical Association of New York, has a private psychiatry practice in Staten Island, where is he is a longtime resident since the late ‘70s. He has been a competent leader for several organizations such as the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc., Knights of San Lorenzo, Waray Community Association USA, Katbaloganon Association USA, Joseph Pe Empire City Medical Lions Club, Knights of Rizal-New York, San Lorenzo Ruiz Association in America and Philippine Medical Association in America.
Ollie David is a multi-award winning retired math and science teacher who taught at Newark Public Schools District for nearly 40 years. She has been recognized as a distinguished educator by “Who’s Who Among American Teachers” for her sustained excellence in teaching. She has served as chairperson of the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc.’s grand marshal ball. She is also a medical volunteer for the Philippine Medical Association of America. Oliver Oliveros holds a master’s degree in public relations and corporate communication from New York University. For nearly 20 years now, he has been handling reputation and media management for various brands, including Pepsi and Nickelodeon, Broadway shows and stars, and international recording and concert artists. Besides Fil-Am Who’s Who, his column appears regularly on BroadwayWorld.com, the largest theater site on the Internet primarily covering Broadway, London’s West End, and regional and international theater productions.
Ollie David
Rolan Gutierrez
Myrna Gutierrez
To engage our newest services call 917-502-9887 or email filamwhoswho@gmail.com
Rolan Gutierrez, a computer programmer turned photographer and print layout designer, began his photography career as a landscape photographer with the UP-Diliman Mountaineers during his college days. For so many years later, he has been doing portraiture, event coverage, and designing organizational publications. He served as the official photographer during 2013 Miss World Megan Young’s recent visit to New York and New Jersey, which successfully raised funds for super typhoon Haiyan victims in central Philippines. Joseph Pe is a multi-award winning filmmaker-videographer whose credits include “What’s The T?” a 10-minute documentary about transgenders in San Francisco and New York City, which won third place in the Scary Cow Film Festival in San Francisco; “Mata” (Eye), which won third place in the 1999 Experimental Alternative Film Festival at the Cultural Center of the Philippines; and “Lost Paris Tapes,” which was screened at the Asian Film Festival and ABC No Rio Gallery in New York City. He also dabbles in acting in theater, television, and film. Lastly, our business manager Myrna Gutierrez is a computer programmer, who is also a sought-after community organizer and entertainment producer. Currently, she is the public relations officer of PAGASA Social Foundation. FEBRUARY 2014
FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 15
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