Roots and Wings August-September 2022 Edition

Filipino Magazine in Europe

Guarding the kiss Newlyweds Frances Ledesma & David Johnson with Best Dog Fin

August ­— September 2022 Volume 12 Issue 5

From the Editor

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hat a sizzling, dizzying summer that was! The hottest I’ve ever experienced in Europe with temperatures reaching 42oC in Madrid, a bit lower in neighbouring Lisbon and thank God for a ‘mild’ 27oC in London for the wedding of niece Frances Ledesma to an English­—Irish gentleman David Johnson. The fairy-tale like nuptials are for the record and wish them a lifetime of commitment over shared values, laughter, and fun with Fin. An equally compelling read is Rawmags Young Mover Sebastian Eviota’s entry into the world’s smallest army – the Swiss Guards based at the Vatican. He just made history by being the first full-bloodied Filipino in this 516-year-old military unit that has been protecting the pope and Catholic church in Rome over the centuries.

Victor Cantal looks to me an intriguing resident artist at the Hague. Check out his array of Philippine-inspired art at https://onlinegallery. art/en/victor-cantal/. Part of Victor's Art for a Cause proceeds sends Palawan and Negros Occ. students to technical/vocational schools and eventually land good jobs.

Turn the pages to more fascinating stories Are there Filipinos in Serbia? by Daniel Ramonal; Meet the Overseas Fabulous Pinay Chef by Donna Küntzler or visit the on-going exhibit in Vienna KUBŌ22 - Kultur Bayanihan Ōsterreich 2022. Myla Arceno & co-authors of 100 Miracles of our Blessed Mother launched this historic centenary book in Stevenage, UK while in Manila, Rawmags Social

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Editorial Team

Entrepreneurship Lead Becky Torres & Marizel Arambulo finally Met up with Rachel Hansen.

If you’re in the area, look up Edson Gonzales, a microblading artist in Amsterdam and Bryan Andrew Fallar’s Gentlemen’s Grooming Barbershop in Vienna. Rawmags supports business entrepreneurs like Edson and Bryan. Got business you want to flourish? Connect with any of our team or email me at rawmags.betsy@gmail.com Highlights of this issue are summer Philippine destination picks and MINDORO is clearly it! Be amazed at Gloria Hernandez’s Mine of Gold, the unexplored paradise, and Charlene Catapang’s MAHAL TANA Mindoro with spectacular photos courtesy of the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Tourism Office.

I need to stop writing now! Click the e-mag pages that interest you here https://www.rawmags.com/ or email me for questions at rawmags.betsy@gmail.com.

Enjoy Rawmags' splendid summer stories!

Mabuhay ang Pilipino!

Roots&Wings

Meet the Team

Betsy Jance von Atzigen

Rachel Hansen

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

FOUNDER/PUBLISHER SWEDEN

Marthy Angue ASSOCIATE EDITOR PHILIPPINES

Rebecca Urbancik Garcia

Ralph Chan

Jennifer Fergesen

ASSOCIATE EDITOR GERMANY/CZ

BUREAU EDITOR AUSTRIA

BUREAU EDITOR ICELAND

Gloria Hernandez Grejalde

Aimee Alado -Blake

Katrina Larida

Jeffrey Cabuay

Cipriano “Zip” De Guzmán Jr.

Mye Mulingtapang

BUREAU EDITOR RUSSIA

BUREAU EDITOR UNITED KINGDOM

BUREAU EDITOR SWEDEN

BUREAU EDITOR FRANCE

BUREAU EDITOR SPAIN

BUREAU EDITOR ITALY

Donna Patricia Manio

Donna Avellana Künzler

Daniel Ceeline Ramonal

Luz Bergersen

Marizel Arambulo

Becky Torres

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

BUREAU EDITOR SWITZERLAND

BUREAU EDITOR SERBIA

BUREAU EDITOR NORWAY

SOC ENTREPRENEUR LEAD

SOC ENTREPRENEUR LEAD

Lyndy Bagares WEB EDITOR NORWAY

Anton Miguel D. De Vera HEAD OF SOCMED AUSTRIA

Apiong Bagares DESIGN

Feedback Page

Would you like to join our Rawmags Team?

What do you think of our magazine? Email rawmags.betsy@gmail.com

Volunteer roles now open for Bureau Editor Greece, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland and Turkey. Email rawmags.betsy@gmail.com

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www.rawmags.com Roots&Wings

Roots&Wings Roots&Wings Filipino Magazine in Europe Published by Rachel Publishing Co. Stockholm, Sweden / St Gallen, Switzerland 2009-2022

Editorial Team

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Roots & Wings is proud and grateful to our sponsor Boracay Tropics Resort Hotel, Aklan Philippines.

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Contents COVER STORY Guarding the kiss /p6 ART Victor Cantal, Filipino Artist-in-residence in the Hague /p10 Art for a Cause /p14 YOUNG MOVERS Sebastian Eviota, first full-bloodied Filipino in the world's smallest army /p17 BUSINESS Challenges to triumphs: Story of a Filipino microblading artist disrupting the industry /p20 Journey to the Gentlemen's Grooming Shop /p23 TRAVEL Mindoro, Mine of Gold, the unexplored paradise / p26 MAHAL TANA: A Sneak Peek to Oriental Mindoro / p28 CULTURE Are there Filipinos in Serbia? / p31 Geraldine De Leon: The Overseas Fabulous Pinay Chef / p34 KUBŌ22 - Kultur Bayanihan Ōsterreich 2022 / p36 DIRECTORY OF PHILIPPINE EMBASSIES IN EUROPE /p38 LITERARY 100 Miracles of Our Blessed Mother / p40 RAWMAGS TEAM Becky Torres & Marizel Arambulo meet up with Rawmags founder & publisher Rachel Hansen / p43 PR Anton Miguel de Vera Head of Rawmags Social Media / p44 SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP Rawmags pays forward / p50

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Table of Contents

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UK

Guarding the kiss Text by Betsy Jance von Atzigen Images by Frances Ledesma, Chris Uy & Betsy von Atzigen

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"

e met on Tinder, a dating app, when I was in the middle of moving to London. We had our first date and just kept going out. We survived 5-6 months of long-distance relationship while I kept flying back to Manila before officially moving to London. And we’ve been inseparable since." Frances recalls.

The bride California-born Frances is a vascular surgeon in training in London who joined UK’s NHS - National Health Service in 2018 after graduating from Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health and accomplishing a string of medical trainings across continents.

Young and adept at her medical profession, Dr. Frances Ledesma inspires university students to pursue the medical field.

"Surgery is probably the slowest to change out of all the medical specialties. Its culture is so deeply embedded in traditions that do not necessarily translate anymore at this point in time. However, it’s slowly being changed from the inside by people— especially women, who step up to the plate and say that the culture needs to be more accepting, welcoming, and kind. So, I’m grateful to be in the company of those who make surgery feel more like home rather than a stressful, unwelcoming workplace."

Proud of her Assumption San Lorenzo education, she bears foundress St. Marie Eugenie’s charge to be mindful of one’s "social and ecological realities and be rooted in one’s own history, culture, and times."

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Cover Story

Franny, endeared to family and close friends, is the daughter of Manila-based business owners Janet Marie Jance and Augustus ‘Migo’ Ledesma, with roots in Bacolod, Negros Occidental, Philippines.

The groom David is a young finance analyst on sustainable investments in London UK. He does research and analyses data to create financial models and inform investment decisions.

Warm, winsome, and a towering fellow, David enjoys a good drink at the pub and long walks with his love and Fin. Allergic to many things Roots&Wings

Michael von Atzigen, Frances' first cousin with Fin

since childhood, having a medical doctor next to him hopefully averts any untoward emergencies. He is the only child of Elizabeth and Philip Johnson and is of British-Irish descent while Frances is a pretty mix of Filipino-Spanish-Austrian-American lineage.

The venues To ease the multicultural and geographically distant origins, they opted for a wedding atmosphere of togetherness in two venues, beginning from the Old Marylebone Townhall in Westminster, UK where they exchanged I do’s and to Don Bosco Chapel on the Hill, in BatRoots&Wings

ulao, Batangas in the Philippines come early 2023.

The newlyweds share expanded families on both sides that value marriage for keeps.

While visiting Kerry, Ireland, home to most of David’s family, Frances was inundated with “I’m so excited for your wedding!” Or “I can’t wait for your wedding!” Or “Is what I’m going to wear okay?” In other words, I wish we got hitched in Vegas!’’

The zealous guard Home in London (in Manila, or in her surgery which also counts as ‘home,’) is where the

Cover Story

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warmth of a relationship nurtures the soul.

Home is where Fin awaits Frances and David at the end of frenzied days. Indeed, Fin zealously guards the wedding kiss!

The couple adopted Fin during lockdown from a family who could no longer take care of him. Frances saw Fin on an Ad and went to personally meet the German Shepherd herself.

Fin ran up to her like he’d always known her.

Touched by a strong connection and sense of belonging, she took him home that day, without David’s knowledge. The latter only realized they owned a large, smart, hyper-cuddly German Shepherd named Fin after work that day.

The wedding Finally, the long-awaited day in August came. It was fairy-tale like and remarkable as every bride and groom would want it to be.

Families travelled from the Philippines, Ireland, across the UK, USA, Switzerland and elsewhere along with incredibly chilled London-based ‘doctor barkada’ and childhood friends of the couple to celebrate the nuptials.

Large and lively Ledesma and Johnson families and friends gathered and met in London’s iconic Old Marylebone Townhall, city of Westminster, central London. It is an exquisite

example of Edwardian Graeco-Roman classicism, faced with Portland stone and a unique tower feature in the style of Christopher Wren.

It is home to many celebrity weddings from Beatle Paul McCartney to Spanish actor Antonio Banderas.

A packed Westminster Room with gorgeous wood panelling, carved fireplace and elaborate ceiling plasterwork lie in wait.

Then the bride walked in.

Elated he stood unmoved.

The bustling crowd stilled.

She wore a glamorous Lesley Mobo couture bridal white lace gown with Filipiniana sleeves, light veil and trail with stunning embellishments, designed to suit her personal style, texture, movement, and the warm summer English season.

The party The wedding party began right at the doorstep of Old Marylebone townhall. Oh, what a transport of delight awaited everyone! A burnished red vintage double decker bus waited in attention as the newlyweds descended the steps of Old Marylebone Town Hall to a shower

Champagne on hand, NHS Team of surgeons and medical colleagues celebrate with bride

Sam Duncombe, David's childhood friend, delivering a

Frances. PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRIS UY

cherished Best Man's wedding toast

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Cover Story

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Attending family of the bride from left: Manchester-based Monica Tiongco, Swiss Franz & Betsy

Bridesmaid & Frances' sister Bea Ledesma -bright, bold

von Atzigen, mother & father of the bride Janet & Migo Ledesma, New Yorker Cecile Tiongco and

spark of the wedding reception shown here entering the

LA-based Eileen Guevara

Westminster Townhall

London's red vintage double decker ready to drive guests to the reception

David's childhood friends, and Frances' NHS colleagues at the Foundling

venue - the Foundling Museum in Brunswick Square

Museum's Picture Gallery for the banquet

of soft confetti, symbolizing fertility and prosperity.

The sight of the red vintage bus alone must have taken Londoners down memory lane with all the sense of a wedding occasion, wellbeing, and nostalgia. The trip was in itself a celebration of years gone by and years to go by.

The wedding party on board the double decker was driven and escorted to a tucked away leafy corner of Bloomsbury – the Foundling Museum. Located in a tranquil yet central London venue, it offered an exclusive and ideally placed wedding party venue. This remarkable museum has more than 275 years of history imbedded in its exquisite art collection, objects of historic crockery, contemporary sculpture pieces, and spaces all telling stories of a gone by era.

A sweeping 18th century staircase led Frances and David and their guests up to an opulent Court Room with one of the finest Rococco interiors in London. It surely made Roots&Wings

an excellent backdrop for an intimate reception over a 3-piece classic ensemble, flowing champagne and canapé. The elegant and stunning Georgian-style Picture Gallery hosted the fine sit-down catered banquet that lasted three hours. The grand paintings hanging on the walls of the gallery included Captain Thomas Coram, one of Hogarth’s finest portraits given to the Foundling Hospital in the 1740s.

Apparently, all couples who book their special day at the Foundling Museum are offered lifetime membership of the Museum and could revisit whenever they like to relive those very special memories.

Frances and David made a decision to commit to each other in love. True love is more than the fleeting moments of emotions. Love is a commitment that endures the ups and downs, rides out shared trials and joys. Marriage is that thing that lasts, contrary to modern day practice. And they’ve only just begun, along with Fin, guarding the kiss.

Cover Story

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Fun Map of the Philippines DIGITAL ART

VICTOR CANTAL

Unlike any traditional map where the purpose is direction, this one takes the viewer to an emotional journey around the archipelago. A kind of trip marked by local stories, myths, traditions, food, and to some, nostalgia.

ONLINE STORE: torbik.bigcartel. com

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Art

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THE NETHERLANDS

Victor Cantal, Filipino Artist-in-residence in the Hague Images and captions by Victor Cantal in collaboration with Betsy von Atzigen

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he Philippines. The Republic of the Philippines is a sovereign state in archipelagic Southeast Asia, with 7,107 islands spanning more than 300,000 square kilometers of territory. It is divided into three island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The Philippines was named after Prince Philip (later King Philip II) of Spain, by the Spanish explorer Ruy Lopez de Villalobos during his 15421546 expedition to the islands.

The Philippines is a unitary presidential constitutional republic, with the President of the Philippines acting as both the head of state and the head of government. It proclaimed its independence from the Spanish Empire on June 12, 1898, following the culmination of the Philippine Revolution.

It is a founding member of both the United Nations (UN), and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It has embassies and consulates in 62 countries around the world. Read more about the Philippines @https:// www.officialgazette.gov.ph/about/philippines/ The Queen City of the South Cebu City is the capital city of the province of Cebu and is the second city of the Philippines. It serves as the center of a metropolitan area called

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Metro Cebu, which includes the cities of Carcar, Danao, Lapu-lapu, Mandaue, Naga, and Talisay.

A peek at history On April 7, 1521, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan landed in Cebu.

He was welcomed by Rajah Humabon, the king of Cebu, together with his wife and about 700 native islanders. Magellan, however, was killed in the Battle of Mactan, and the remaining members of his expedition left Cebu soon after several of them were poisoned by Humabon due to threats of foreign occupation.

On April 3, 1898, local revolutionaries led by the Negrense Leon Kilat rose up against the Spanish colonial authorities and took control of the urban center after three days of fighting. The uprising was only ended by the treacherous murder of Leon Kilat and the arrival of soldiers from Iloilo.

The signing of the Treaty of Paris at the end of the Spanish-American War provided for the cession of Cebu along with the rest of the Philippine islands to the United States until the formation of the Commonwealth Era (19351946). On February 21, 1899 the USS Petrel (PG-2) deployed a landing party of 45 men on the shores of Cebu. Cebu’s transfer to the Commonwealth government was signed by Luis Flores, although others, most notably, Gen. Arcadio Maxilom and Juan Climaco, offered resistance until 1901. Cebu only

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became a chartered city in February 24, 1937. Read more about Cebu @ https:// philippinescities.com/cebu-city-cebu/ A peek at history Olongapo was a small fishing village of Subic with the majority of the people getting their livelihood through it. When the Spaniards came and conquered the town in 1884, they made it as their navy settlement. King Alfonso II declared Subic Bay as Spain’s stronghold in the Far East because of its notable deep water harbor and the protection provided by the mountains surrounding the place against strong winds.

After 14 years of Spanish-American War, Admiral George Dewey took Olongapo and Subic Bay, making the bay area and the whole Olongapo as U.S. Military reservation. Millions of dollar were spent converting the base. Estimated cost spent was $170 million.

After 8 years, Filipino citizens demanded that Olongapo be returned to the governance of the Philippines. Thus in December 7, 1959 Olongapo was turned over to the Philippine government and changed into a municipality by virtue of Executive Order No. 366 by issuance of President Carlos P. Garcia.

Seven years later, President Ferdinand E. Marcos signed Republic Act No. 4645 on June 1, 1966 making Olongapo a chartered city. In 1983, Olongapo City became the highly urbanized city in Central Luzon.

On June 15, 1991, Mount Pinatubo erupted causing extensive damage at the U.S. Facility and in Olongapo City.

It was also noted that in this year, the Senate of the Philippines rejected the Treaty agreement between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States of America.

A year later, President Corazon Aquino signed R.A. 7227 creating Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and appointed Mayor Richard J. Gordon as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

On November 24, 1992, the U.S.

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Art

Naval Facility was turned over to the Philippine Government, and Subic was turned over to the governance of Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). Read more about Olongapo @https://philippinescities.com/olongapo-city-zambales/ “Pag-asa”, which means “hope” in English, is the name of the Philippine eagle that became a conservation icon in the country. Pag-asa’s home is in Davao City, a place known for its colourful indigenous sculptures, rich cultural tradition, and Mount Apo, the country’s highest peak. Pag-asa passed away on January 6, 2021.

Victor Cantal is a contemporary re-

Fun Map of Cebu POSTER / DIGITIZED ART VICTOR CANTAL

Inspired by Yoyoy Villame’s song, “Philippine Geography”.

A caricature of the folk singerhistorian can be found on the upper left of the map. Featured here are some of Cebu’s local heroes like Lapu-Lapu, Leon Kilat, and Rafael Tabal; popular historical sites like Magellan's Cross; Cebu's patron, Señor Sto. Niño; the beach and the diving scenes; and the lechon, where Cebu is popular for.

ONLINE STORE: torbik.bigcartel.com

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Olongapo

Tribute to Pag-asa

WATERCOLOR

WATERCOLOUR

VICTOR CANTAL

VICTOR CANTAL

Just another day in Olongapo City

alist painter, an award-winning illustrator and designer. His art is largely influenced by a fondness of punk rock music, which means that it can look upbeat and discordant. But he also has sober moods owing to a high regard of the rigid academic discipline.

He seeks beauty in everything—from a mundane still life to a mother and child picture, a portrait, landscape, or an array of flowers.

As an artist, he believes he has an active role in society, that is why his works often depict socio-political themes. He holds the belief that one cannot abandon the duty to seek the truth and expose it.

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Victor is a graduate of Fine Arts from the Philippines, and a resident of the Hague.

VISIT HIS ONLINE STORE:

www.torbik.bigcartel.com

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THE NETHERLANDS

ART FOR A CAUSE Part of your purchase of Victor Cantal's Art for a Cause sends Filipino students to Laura Vicuña vocational / technical schools in Palawan and Negros Occ, Philippines.

For details, email Becky Torres or Marizel Arambulo, Roots & Wings Social Entrepreneurship program Team at rawmags.sponsor @gmail.com

RICE-EATERS

Victor Cantal A visual artist who works and drinks in The Netherlands

www.onlinegallery. art/en/victor-cantal/

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Art for a cause

A family gathered around a bowl of rice, on the floor, using their hands, which is one of the best ways to experience food; also very Filipino.

The father who sits in background suggests that the other members are the priority, and the mother at the centre, makes sure that the youngest member is getting something to eat.

One sees a family that is happy to be sharing whatever little they have.

Oil on canvas

50x70 cm Artist Price

€ 1,700

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IGOROT

The Igorots, an indigenous group in the Philippines, dance to heal, worship ancestors and gods, and pray for good harvest and favourable weather.

They dance to ward off misfortune, to congregate and socialise, and to mark milestones in life.

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Oil on canvas

24 x 30 cm Artist Price

€ 100

Art for a cause

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LUMAD

A collective term for the predominantly non-Christian and non-Muslim indigenous groups in Mindanao.

Often a victim of red-tagging and displacement due to conflict or land grabbing, the Lumads are considered some of the vulnerable groups in the Philippines.

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Art for a cause

Oil on canvas

25 x 35 cm Artist Price

€ 150

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VATICAN, ITALY

Sebastian Eviota, first full-blooded Filipino in the world's smallest army

Day duty at the apostolic palace­—PÄPSTLICHE SCHWEIZERGARDE FB

Text by Betsy von Atzigen

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ebastian Esai Eco Eviata has just made church and civic history by becoming the first member of the Vatican elite Swiss Guards of full Filipino origin. Despite the early loss of his mother, the absence of his father, a fragmented childhood spent across Mindanao and eventually continents - the enduring love, inspiration, and protection of his three big families prevailed.

What is the world’s smallest army? What is one of the world’s oldest military units in continuous operation?

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The Swiss Guards The Guardia Svizzera (Italian) or Swiss Guards is the centuries-old corps of young, Swiss soldiers responsible for the safety of the pope to the point of sacrificing one’s life if necessary; security of the Vatican, and the pontifical villa of Castel Gandolfo. They are employed by the Roman Catholic Church under the leadership of the pope to whom they pledge fealty in a ceremony at Belvedere Court. The Swiss Guards are independent of the Swiss armed forces.

One can’t miss those tall, fit, and good-looking

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Sebastian Eviota, 2nd from right ­—PHOTO FROM MINDANEWS

Swiss Guards in the Vatican grounds wearing striped tunics of bright red, dark blue and yellow colours of the Medici family which have been in continuous use from the Renaissance-era to this day.

Called to serve Early this year, 24-year-old Eviota found his undaunted and unique calling to the Vatican elite Swiss Guards. He was heartily welcomed in a letter by Christoph Graf, commander of the Swiss Guard based at the Vatican in January 2022. Prior to that, Sebastian served as second Lieutenant in the Swiss Army, Infantry 13th Battalion in a two-year basic Army course. He has since made a stir in the European and Philippine media.

Family “Baste” to an affectionate family, is the son of Diomedes ’Brady’ Eviota, a former journalist from Surigao City who migrated to Switzerland in 2006 and the late Editha Eco, also a journalist from Espe18

Young Movers

ranza, Agusan del Sur. He was born in August 1998, Davao City and relocated to Switzerland at age 9 with his older sister Sophia then 13, on a family reunion visa. Sebastian’s mother passed away when he was 2 years old.

Grandparents’ influence His devout Catholic maternal grandparents attended Holy Mass nearly every day in their parish church, about a hundred metres away from home.

Their way of life surely made a deep impression on the growing Baste. The same maternal grandparents supported the young, grieving family over the loss of their mother.

When Brady left for Switzerland, the children went to live with their paternal grandparents - Diomedes Sr, the late Surigao City regional trial court judge. It was his grandpa’s intervention that the seed of Baste’s career was planted and nurtured.

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Sebastian Eviota with family in Milan 2022­—EVIOTA FAMILY FILES

Sebastian Eviota 3rd from right among the 2022 recruits—PÄPSTLICHE

Sergeant Sebastian Eviota, Army Day 2018—BRADY EVIOTA

SCHWEIZERGARDE FB

Growing years The Eviota family has since settled at the quartier Bumpliz in the Swiss capital city of Bern, along with well-loved stepmom Maria Theresa Angob. Baste became part of the Youth for Christ (YFC) Europe group in Bern and was actively involved as a council member of the English-speaking Roman Catholic Community of the Bruder Klaus Church, also in Bern.

Career The young Eviota completed his apprenticeship as Hotel Specialist in Bern and last worked as Customer Service Supervisor at supermarket chain Migros. His sister Sophia is making her career as sous-chef in the same business organisation.

Moving on His Swiss citizenship, Catholic faith, young age, height of 1.74m (5 ft. 8 in), professional diploma and being an unmarried male made him eligible to the Swiss Guards. Sebastian's two-year basic Swiss Army Roots&Wings

experience, also a prerequisite, groomed him for more training ahead including VIP protection, crowd control, use of modern weaponry, counterterrorism techniques plus the Italian language. His batch of 2022 is scheduled to take the oath on 6th May 2023.

Filipino roots among the Guards Two years before Eviota, Swiss-Filipino Vincent Lüthi made headlines when he joined the Swiss Guards. His father comes from canton Vaud of Switzerland while his mother hails from Cebu, Philippines. “Serving the pope and the Catholic Church is more than a job. It is a vocation.

May many young Catholics see their work or jobs as a vocation — a calling from the Lord in fulfillment of his mission on earth,” Bishop Rex Andrew Alarcon of the Commission on Youth was quoted on Luthi’s assignment.

Laudable Sebastian Eviota, like Vincent Lüthi, is a tough, audacious young man with roots in the Philippines who has answered the call to serve Christ’s Vicar on earth and successor of St. Peter and the Catholic Church.

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THE NETHERLANDS

Challenges to triumphs: Story of a Filipino microblading artist disrupting the industry

TAP IMAGE TO WATCH THE VIDEO

EDSON GONZALES Eyebrow Mapping quick and easy tutorial with Sticky Ruler — ­ ALDO NELBERT BANAYNAL

Text by Mye Mulingtapang

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any people know from an early age what their professional dream is, and what they want to become, and immediately start pursuing their dream. Others, on the other hand, discover it over time, through experience. The first thing to do is to become aware of what your authentic skills and passions are, without external filters. All dreams involve risk, but success always begins with a dream.

Edson Gonzales is just one of 20

Business

the many Filipinos who was initially was caught up in his daily routines and thought he would never take the time to visualize and build the future of his dreams.

He used to think about the things he is willing to suffer for, what sacrifices he should make, and if he was ready to fight tooth and nail to change the course of his life.

Then he realized that the purpose of his life is the intersection point between his greatest passions and the greatest needs in a sector made up of make-up, colours, and above all beauty.

He made the decision to leave the university as an architectural student. It felt as if he was eating not out of real appetite but out of social convention. Edson did not like what he was doing and thought the beauty industry would be a better fit for him. His difficulty was not understanding what his career path should be because after leaving college he eventually enrolled in a beauty school and graduated with a certificate in basic haircutting and delved into the field of makeup artistry.

“My perseverance allowed me Roots&Wings

to work for one of the most wellknown companies at the time.

I had experience working with celebrities, shows, and events. I knew I was on the right track, and I enjoyed my work,” said Edson.

Leaving the Philippines But Edson wanted to broaden his knowledge, skills, and professional dimension with the aim of also having financial autonomy.

Edson took a plane to Europe in the fall of 2009 to begin a new chapter in his life. He had a recurring dream that he dismissed due Roots&Wings

to some unavoidable circumstances but kept coming back. His line of work has changed since he was unable to practise his career in the Netherlands.

People can do different types of work. There will be some that they are good at but that they may not like, others that many would like to do but for which they do not have the skills and still others that satisfy some enough but that do not fully exploit their skills. Edson spent years in Amsterdam with invisible name plates but made sure that they had expiration dates printed on them.

“It was an unpleasant picture, but no matter how hard it was, I knew I could change my life. Being aware of it, on the other hand, helped me to understand what I really wanted to do with my life,” shared Edson.

During his first years, he worked full-time as a cleaner in a hotel and gave fellow Filipinos haircuts in his free time. These moments of hard work were the breadcrumbs that helped him find the right path.

“I was pleased with myself for cleaning toilets and sweeping floors. I succeeded in making enough money to support myself,” recalled Edson.

His diligence and hard effort were rewarded. Edson was then promoted to manager where he handled office work, made reservations, and managed other employees.

From passion to profession Edson first developed an interest in "microblading" in 2016.

He instantly ordered some cheap study supplies and tools from the internet. He first learned the techniques by putting in many hours studying instructional videos and trying them on plastic skin. Fortunately, he has supportive friends

who are eager to act as his models and assist him to get better.

He was driven by the desire to deepen, finally invest in himself, and improve himself with dedication and passion to achieving his professional dream. He fought to become the professional he has always wanted. The immediate reason that pushed him to undertake this path is the desire to realize a secret dream and to carry out a profession that can give him satisfaction. He wanted to broaden his skills and have an edge in the aesthetic work he already does.

“In 2017, I realized that studying a microblading course is quite costly. I needed to invest thousands of euros to have formal training.

Through referrals from friends, I was able to save enough funds to take a course at Elite Microblading Academy. This is the year that I earned my first ever certificate as a Brow artist,” Edson said.

The hype Becoming a professional microblading artist means doing a profession that is exploding in the beauty industry. A profession capable of giving numerous satisfactions to both professionals and customers. In fact, during the last few years, the interest in this sector has grown considerably also thanks to the passion that women (and increasingly men too) have for beauty and for the wonderful branch of permanent make-up.

The main reasons for the growing popularity of the sector are many and range from the economic and professional satisfaction that it can bring to professionals to the satisfaction and beauty that is offered to customers.

Hearing from customers how tiring it is to have to get up early to put on makeup calmly and accurately, not to mention the financial resources they spend monthly to

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purchase all the necessary tricks is a reality that concerns all women and increasingly also men who are more attentive to their appearance, shared Edson.

“These are the cases where I intervene. I am happy with how much you could make my customers satisfied, thanks to the skills that I have acquired through the years,” said Edson. One of his clients exclaimed, “Imagine being able to wake up in the morning with a make-up that is already perfect and does not require further tweaking. Incredible, right? I thank Edson for that.”

A mission The microblading industry is a new professional stimulus for those who carry out the profession with heartfelt vocation and professionalism. Staying on the market, whatever the job, is a challenge that only enthusiasts can win.

In the beauty industry, however, passion and motivation are two very important things. For those who want to thrive, change is necessary.

The only way to be able to stay on the crest of the wave in the field of aesthetics, win the competition, and set out for success is to find new stimuli in setting new goals and continuous learning.

Edson believes that there are many reasons for staying in this satisfying world. That is, it's about finding a job where he can use his talents in the service of something he is passionate about.

“I must say my career is doing well. My client base for microblading service is expanding. From a small room in my apartment to a bigger studio in the middle of Amsterdam. I consistently enrol in new courses and advanced techniques to continuously update and improve my skills,” Edson said.

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Business

To dream, imagination is enough, but to live the dream, you need to put something more into it.

Edson Gonzales

www.eyebrowlab.com Dare to dream People have desires, dream of getting to places few have, and want an opportunity to be successful. An ephemeral line between everything and nothing can occasionally be the only thing standing in the way of a man's dreams: fear of himself. In his journey, Edson discovered how to dive further, face his fears, and take bigger chances. It's impossible to do it easily from the surface according to Edson who dreamt big and worked hard to be where he is right now. He knew what he

wanted and was committed to achieving his goals, putting in place not only his desire but also the strategy and motivation.

“If you have a dream, many people will try to stop you from following it. They will tell you that you are incapable of doing it, that it is risky, and they will say things like, don't do it; it's not safe; it may not be what you thought; what if it doesn't work? To dream, imagination is enough, but to live the dream, you need to put something more into it,” Edson shared.

Roots&Wings

AUSTRIA

Journey to the Gentlemen's Grooming Shop Text & images by Anton Miguel D. De Vera

G

entlemen’s Grooming is a newly opened barbershop located in the 19th district of Vienna. It offers a combination of traditional, artistic, and new school haircuts for customers of different ages. The services include haircuts, beard trim/shaving, a combo of haircut and beard trim, and haircuts for ‘Little Gentlemen’ (haircut for children). Co-owners Bryan Andrew Fallar, Paul Bryan Fernandez, Lukas Akdil, and the main barber Markus Lucaciu, together set a standard of providing barber services with a professional touch and offering a venue for friends and family to meet.

I had the pleasure to chat with Bryan Andrew Fallar, co-owner of Gentlemen’s Grooming and a Filipino-Austrian entrepreneur from Vienna, Austria. Bryan talked and shared about his life in Vienna, how he came upon the idea of owning a barbershop, and his expectations on what he hopes Gentlemen’s Grooming can achieve in future.

At a young age, Bryan always dreamt of becoming a business entrepreneur in Vienna. However, he never really thought

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23

Gentlemen’s Grooming Shop at 19th district, Vienna

of having to manage a barbershop. His passion is on sports, specifically gym fitness and martial arts. He dreamt of starting a fitness app on smart phones which would offer tutorials on fitness exercises like clean push-ups and so on. Another one of his dreams is to open a traditional Filipino restaurant in Vienna. In the future, he hopes to make these dreams come true.

For many people, becoming a startup entrepreneur is already difficult in itself. Bryan’s path to entrepreneurship began when he first left school early. He thought at the time that what he learned in school didn’t provide the knowledge he needed to fulfil his dreams of becoming an entrepreneur and a fully functioning businessman. He believed in the importance of improving one’s communication skills, networking, and taking measurable risks. When asked about how his family felt over his decision of leaving school in order to pur24

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sue a business career, he said that they were worried of course, as expected in a Filipino household, but he told them to not worry too much and to believe that he can achieve his dreams. After leaving school, Bryan worked as a salesman and store manager at different retail stores such G-Star, Snipes, and Jack & Jones in many hourly shifts to save up some capital. He also invested in cryptocurrency on the side which helped him boost his capital and eventually attracted opportunities for starting his own barbershop.

The idea began with a phone call from a friend who brought up the idea to open a barbershop. At first, he was sceptical mainly because he had no clue how to open and manage one, not to mention how to cut hair. Regardless, he took time to put together a business plan and researched the costs involved such as rent of venue, fixed costs of utilities, equipment, insurance, etc. ToRoots&Wings

gether with his business partners and investment return from cryptocurrency, the business seemed feasible.

Problems soon arrived in April 2021 when one of his business partners dropped out. Insufficient financing stalled the renovations and furnishings were incomplete. Adding to the challenge, they had to pay monthly rent and insurance despite the opening delays.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed more serious problems. It was at this point when the situation took a heavy toll on Bryan and he felt like giving up. With the fear of losing the shop venue, the lack of barbers and capital, it seemed impossible to open the shop. It caused depression and he genuinely thought that he was at risk of losing all the initial work done.

It wasn’t until Bryan and Paul, two of the three business partners, found a new investor. With the help of networking, Bryan connected with a good friend Lukas Akdil who decided to join and invest in the business. They were able to gradually build on the progress already made and eventually opened to the public in April 2022.

Bryan believes that young Filipinos can create a movement in Austria.

Compared to how life can be in the Philippines, Filipino-Austrians have so much more accessibility and opportunities here in Vienna in terms of refining and developing their multitudes of talent that should be showcased in a public platform. The key to success for Bryan is “to learn to work for yourself, and not for someone else and to do this for your whole life, you work for your dreams.” Separating himself from his work as a salesman in the beginning, he also worked on his talents and skills to pursue his dreams. He believes that young Filipinos in Austria should do the same in which life is not just all work, but also life is in their passion.

Today, Gentlemen’s Grooming Barbershop has gathered the attention of many customers as they are fully booked almost every week. Luckily, I was able to book an appointment for Roots&Wings

myself. Overall, the services provided are refreshing and comforting to have a haircut where one can engage in conversation with his barber. This is the standard of service Bryan and Gentlemen’s Grooming hope to set, where visiting your barber is supposed to be “magical and conversational, and a place offering quality over quantity.”

In my experience, the barbershop gives off a fresh and millennial vibe and sets an ambiance almost similar to a classy bar where they not only offer you a stylish haircut but also some refreshments to keep you comfortable and relaxed. I was able to have a conversation with one of their barbers who is used to cutting Asian hair, Daniel, and we were able to talk about experiences in cutting Filipino-Asian hair which was great to finally relate with a professional barber in Vienna. Hanging on the walls, you can find different assortments for cutting hair and an art gallery in collaboration with Filipino-Austrian tattoo artist Richelle Cabunia of @richelle.ink on Instagram.

BOOK APPOINTMENTS

www.gentlemens-grooming.com IG

@gentlemens.grooming.vienna Business

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PHILIPPINES

MINDORO THE MINE OF GOLD, THE UNEXPLORED PARADISE

Text & photos by Gloria Hernandez Grejalde

V

erdant hills, interminable rice fields, gushing waterfalls, long sandy beaches, winding rivers, rugged mountains, and underwater wonders describe Mindoro, an island located southwest of mainland Luzon.

The seventh largest landmass in the country is divided into two provinces — Oriental Mindoro and Occidental Mindoro.

The island is home to the mystical Mount Halcon.

Legend has it that any aircraft flying above it will crash because it is magnetic. The mountain is the 18th highest peak in the country and the 37th highest peak of an island on earth at 2,586 meters above sea level.

The Spaniards called it Mina de Oro because they believed it has a big mine of gold. But long before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers in the island in 1570, Chinese merchants had already been conducting bar-

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ter trade with the natives in Mindoro. They called the island “Mai.” Its record of existence was found in old Chinese chronicles dated 775 A.D. More than its amazing beaches and awesome natural beauty, it has a very rich culture. It is home to seven indigenous Mangyan tribes, the natives of Mindoro. They are the Alangan, the Bangon, the Buhid, the Hanunuo, the Iraya, the Tadyawan, and the Tau-Buhid. They have their own culture, own language, and own scripts.

Here you will also find the Tamaraw, a dwarf buffalo that is endemic to the island.

Oriental Mindoro Accessible from the port in Batangas City, the entry to the province is either through its capital city Calapan or the touristic town of Puerto Galera. Flights are also available via its three airports.

Typically an agricultural province, it offers long stretches of white sandy beaches with clear turquoise and blue waters, idyllic waterfalls, and eco-tourism

Roots&Wings

Tamaraw Falls

resorts. Its 15 towns provide varied experiences and adventures that will satisfy even the most discriminating traveller.

A paradise for sea lovers, there is Puerto Galera which is among the top diving destinations in the country and in Asia. Its colorful underwater is a feast to the eyes while a boat trip to some of its islets will lead you to secluded beaches and coves where you can go swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing under the sun unobstructed.

Driving to Puerto Galera from Calapan City, you won’t miss hearing and seeing the cascading waters of the Tamaraw Falls, one of many in the province, as you tackle the zig zag road that leads to the town.

Here you can stop to admire its wondrous beauty.

The Nature Park, the Silonay Mangrove Conservation Eco-Park, and the Harka Piloto Fish Sanctuary, a small island which is a protected area, are some of the interesting places to explore in the capital city. Ideal for nature lovers, here you can trek under century-old trees along its eco-trail that ends in a seashore.

Pristine beaches await you in the islets in Bulalacao, the town near the boundary of Occidental Mindoro. There is the Suguicay Island, the Buyayao Island, and the Aslom Island with its splendid five hundred meters white sandbar. Scaling the Pocanil Rock Formation, you can reach the Buyayao Island by diving from its peak.

Ideal for frolicking is the Balatasan Long Beach which boasts a long stretch of a white sandy beach.

A trek to Abitang will give you the panoramic view of the seascapes of Bulalacao.

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And more adventures await you in the nearby town of Mansalay where you will find the Buktot Beach with its powdery white sands and amazing rock formations. Cabanas dot its shoreline that offer comfort and a blissful stay to its guests.

Occidental Mindoro Characteristically mountainous, this province opens to the South China Sea. It is reached by plane from Manila or via the Nautical Highway that begins in Manila and passes through Oriental Mindoro. The Nautical Highway also leads to the Visayas Islands.

Also an agricultural province with rice as the major produce, driving around its eleven municipalities, you will see ranches with cattle feeding free on the wilderness, rolling grassy hills, and specks of bodies of water. Looking down along its ravines, you will see stretches of white sandy beaches and unending sea water.

The island province is known for the world-famous Apo Reef Natural Park. It is the largest coral reef garden in the country with an area of thirty-four square kilometres and the world’s second-largest contiguous coral reef system next to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia.

Considered as one of the best dive spots in the world, diving enthusiasts will have a feast swimming and admiring the 285 species of colourful marine life.

Its three islands, Apo, Apo Menor, and Cayos del Bajo offer idyllic place for reef cruising, kayaking, lagoon rafting, bird watching, and simply relaxing on its magnificent surroundings.

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H

op in and explore the province of Oriental Mindoro with its infinite biodiversity, unsophisticated beauty, and influential culture and tradition. Waste no time, “MAHAL TANA!” From Metro Manila, drive to Batangas Port and ride a fast craft or Roll-on-Roll-off vessel to reach our island. Travel time ranges from four to six hours, depending on the type of ferry ride you will take.

In Mindoro, we often welcome our guests with our tagline, “MaHal Ta’Na,” which sounds like “Mahal, tara na!” but actually stands for the four icons of the province: the indigenous Mangyans, majestic Mount Halcon, well-preserved Tamaraws, and the breath-taking Naujan Lake. But, we have more to offer so, here’s a glimpse of the tropical paradise hidden in our city and municipalities.

Charlyn Manalo Catapang, Leigh Anne Dimagiba, Katie Castillo and the Barkada

PUERTO GALERA, THE HEART OF ASIA

It offers the best water sports and beach parties. It is an internationally recognized diving site located at the center of marine biodiversity; hence, it is a perfect destination for diving and snorkeling. Muelle Bay is also a must-visit tourist spot.

SAN TEODORO, THE LAND OF CASCADING WATERS

You will surely be blown away by the cold rapids and enchanting caves here. One of its well-known places is the Botolan Falls or the “Twin Falls of San Teodoro,” a twotiered waterfall that can be reached after a 15-minute trek.

MOUNT HALCON

Baco, the home of Halcon. The mountain stands at 2,586 meters above sea level and is the highest peak on the island. You shouldn’t 28

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PHILIPPINES

MAHAL TANA: A Sneak Peek to Oriental Mindoro Text by Charlyn Manalo Catapang Images by the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Tourism Office

miss hiking the mountain’s steep and treacherous trails and taking a luxurious dip in the cool and refreshing mountain rivers.

CALAPAN CITY, THE CITY OF GOLDEN GRAINS & THE ACROPOLIS OF THE SOUTH

It is the capital of Oriental Roots&Wings

LAKE NAUJAN

Mindoro and the main gateway to the province. Worthy places to visit are Infinity Farm (a paradise filled with boardwalks and riverside cottages), Silonay Mangrove Conservation and Ecopark (home to a wide variety of mangroves, birds, bats, reptiles, and amphibians).

NAUJAN, THE TOWN FOR EVERY JUAN

It is known for the Simbahang Bato, a church built with corals and lime mortar during the 16th century of Augustinian Friars.

Aside from being a historical site, it also offers Dao Water Lily Mini Park, a floating cottage with creative handicrafts and souvenirs made from dried water lilies.

VICTORIA, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT BASKET TOWN

Make sure to take a walk around Victoria Nature Park, the first integrated Permaculture Farm in the province, with a soothing Roots&Wings

BOTOLAN FALLS in San Totolan Faeodoro

ambiance. It is a perfect place for farm tours and educational demonstrations.

SOCORRO, THE PLACE OF FLOATING COTTAGES

It offers spectacular sceneries, including the Naujan Lake Viewpoint (a boardwalk and a bicycle lane at the edge of Naujan Lake in Batong Dalig). Also,

try out dining in the Vista Pilar Floating Deck!

POLA, THE QUAINT COASTAL TOWN

You’ll know you’re in Pola when the soil is distinctly “pula” (English: red), hence its name. A time travel to the early 19th century can be experienced with the view of its ancestral houses in the town

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also has its own natural waterfalls called “Walang Langit.”

BANSUD, A TOWN FOR QUIET UNWINDING

It is the perfect view of the Rosacara rolling hills and Manihala Falls.

Plaza de Bansud is also worth visiting for paddle boating and fishing.

SAN RAFAEL CAVE, ROXAS

BONGABONG, THE PROVINCE’S ORGANIC CAPITAL

It is famous for its Gabutero Organic Farm, where several crops and plants are grown. Their sunflower garden and butterfly farms will bring you closer to nature.

ROXAS, THE PLACE OF ANCIENT CAVES

THE MANGYANS - the original inhabitants of Mindoro, the seventh largest island in the Philippines

The San Rafael Cave, about the size of a cathedral, is safe for tourism activity and suited for those looking for adventure. You may allot approximately two hours to explore the cave’s ten chambers.

MANSALAY, THE HOME OF BUHID AND HANUNUO MANGYAN

Experience the Mindoro culture with its historical and cultural pride, such as the rock formations south of the Mansalay Bay, Buktot Beach, and La Sersita Casitas and water spa beach resort.

TAMARAW endemic to the island of Mindoro in the

MUELLE BAY, Puerto Galera

Philippines, and is the only endemic Philippine bovine

center. For beach-goers, you may also try Bihiya Beach, known for its white sand and crystal clear waters.

PINAMALAYAN, THE PROVINCE’S RAINBOW TOWN

It celebrates the joyous Bahaghari Festival. Alongside, one of their best assets is their mouth-watering

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local cuisines, which are definitely a must-try!

GLORIA, THE PROVINCE’S BAMBOO CAPITAL

Its unspoiled beauty roots in the abundance of bamboo and marine protected areas. You may enjoy bamboo shoots dishes at the municipal bamboo plantation. It

BULALACAO, THE HIDDEN PARADISE

Be sure to check out here the Buyayao Island, which caters to 500 forest species with thick vegetation and ornamental plants.

Its rich marine biodiversity entices tourists to try snorkeling and diving.

With all these must-see attractions and must-try activities in Oriental Mindoro, are you now ready to hop in and explore its wonders? Waste no time, “MAHAL TANA!”

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SERBIA

Are there Filipinos in Serbia?

Text and illustration by Daniel Ceeline Ramonal Photos courtesy of the Association of Filipinos in Serbia

T

o address the elephant in the room, the answer is a big fat YES! There are Filipinos in Serbia, a beautifully-varied landlocked country in Southeastern Europe bordered by its more famous neighbors like Hungary, Romania, and Croatia among others.

I know this because when I first visited the country in 2018, I shouted “Kabayan!” at a woman preoccupied with her baby’s stroller, and her head snapped so fast to look towards the direction where the call came. I knew right then that I was not alone.

“Are there Filipinos in Serbia?” is quite a common question asked when I mention where I am based, next to “Where is Serbia?”

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There are not as many Filipinos in Serbia as in the more publicized European countries, but it is a growing community. At the moment, there are 135 registered members in the Association of Filipinos in Serbia (ASF), a voluntary organization established to empower kababayans and promote the Filipino culture. ASF’s President, Bianca Rei Rodi mentions that the number is increasing and does not include those who have yet to register.

ASF was recognized in 2021 32

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but it was spawned during the lockdown when consular needs left many vulnerable because of the difficulty in getting assistance from the Philippine Embassy in Hungary. Being true to the Bayanihan spirit, kababayans in Serbia banded despite being spread out in different locations to find ways to address consular issues and to have a more united voice that formal institutions will acknowledge.

“Because if we are speaking as an organization, our voices will be louder,” Rodi emphasizes.

Since then, ASF has acted as a centralized information hub and a liaison between the Filipinos in Serbia and the Philippine Embassy. In addition, knowing there is a mix of narratives and needs, the organization aims to go beyond Roots&Wings

assistance with document-related issues by planning self-enhancement opportunities in the future.

Currently, it is working on possible collaborations with agencies like POLO Milan for concerns related to workers’ rights and responsibilities and Autonomni Ženski Centar in Belgrade to help those who are in or have experienced abusive situations.

The majority of the Filipinos are living in Belgrade but there are many residing in other areas too. From the uppermost district of North Bačka all the way to the south in Pirot, Filipinos are thriving in both professional settings and in their homes.

There are stories of struggle however there are stories of triumph and courage as well. You will meet kababayans practicing different professions and working in various sectors.

There are nurses, educators, writers, corporate employees, home companions, chefs, construction staff, and hospitality associates, just to name a few. You will encounter those who have set up their businesses with little capital but were able to transform their hard work into profit.

You will also bump into Filipino students on exchange or scholarship programs alongside OFWs who sacrificed being away from their families in the Philippines with the hope of improving their chances.

When asked what life is like in Serbia, you will hear different responses coupled with laughter, always with laughter, because this is every Filipino’s ammunition for everything - be it for battles that confront them or for simple get-togethers that remind them that life is good.

Like any Filipino living abroad, there are the usual woes attached to these answers like homesickRoots&Wings

ness, qualms with the foreign language, and winding employment searches. However, since when did Filipinos let these woes get in the way? Never, especially when you have an established support system with occasional Filipino goodies stashed somewhere and are constantly organizing celebrations to remind everyone that home is not that far.

Generally, most are content with the kind of pace that life in Serbia offers and have now considered it a second home. Sure, the ocean is nowhere in sight and winters can be harsh, but Filipinos are survivors and have always been quick to adapt, preferring to look at the brighter side of circumstances.

Yes. Yes. Yes. There are many Filipinos in Serbia.

The Association of Filipinos in Serbia aims to unite, promote, and support all Filipinos in Serbia. Membership is FREE and open to all Filipinos who reside whether temporarily or permanently in the Republic of Serbia.

www.thefilipinocommunity inserbia.business.site

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USA

Geraldine De Leon THE OVERSEAS FABULOUS PINAY CHEF

I

Text by Donna Kuenzler and images from Geraldine De Leon

n celebration of Sisters Day this year, I would like to dedicate this article to my sister, Geraldine Avellana De Leon. A clinical scientist, loving wife and mother of 3, is now also a chef. Based overseas since the year 2000, she has lived in Yokusuka in Japan and Great Lakes, Illinois and San Diego, California in the USA. Winchester, California is now her home.

My sister has always loved baking and cooking for as long as I can remember. So, I was pleasantly surprised when she told me that she has finally decided to pursue a degree in culinary arts.

From the cassava cake fiasco in the 1990’s—she tried so many times to get the perfect formula and our family had to endure the agony of tasting each deceptive yummy-looking but super hard or chewy cakes; to being entrepreneurial with sharing the profits of blueberry bread that she baked and I then sold to my classmates when I was in university; to being a pro

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Roots&Wings

when she became a certified Wilton cake decorator and instructor; and finally completing her bucket list of being a chef and winning in competitions, she has really come a long way and I’m super proud of her.

Pursuing her dream So why would a mother of three and a clinical scientist by profession, in her golden years (I know, she does not even look older than 35 years old!), suddenly want to get a degree in culinary arts?

Geraldine responds, “After raising 3 children and going back and forth to my clinical science profession, I realized that there is always one thing that is a constant source of happiness for me - making foodbe it baking or cooking. To become a chef has been my long-time dream.

I then decided to finally become a chef, learn more about the food industry, and hopefully someday even teach culinary arts.”

So, pursue her dream she did.

She enrolled in the culinary arts degree program of the Los Angeles

Trade Technical College (LATTC) in 2020. Despite the pandemic, classes were held online and when the situation got better, Geraldine had to wake up at 4am in the morning and drive 91 miles one way to get to school. She studied full-time for two years while keeping up a family of 5 and 2 dogs.

And how did her family react?

Geraldine recounts, “They were super supportive. They were happy to see me learn different cuisines. And of course, they were also proud as they know that becoming a chef is my dream.”

After two years, Geraldine obtained her culinary arts degree from LATTC with flying colors: the President’s honors list and Fulltime dean’s honors list.

Winning in competitions Being the star student of her batch, Geraldine’s instructors motivated her to participate in the American Culinary Federation’s West Coast Sanctioned Culinary competition in the fall of 2021.

With so much faith in her, they encouraged her to participate in three

professional, instead of amateur level categories. Geraldine recounts, “I was so nervous but also excited.

At the end of the competition, I was so happy when they called my name three times on stage to receive my certificates and award medals.” She won the following awards: Bronze medal for her salt dough “Udon noodles” sculpture, Bronze medal for her hot dessert, “Ginataang Mais”, and Silver medal for celebration cake decorating. Not bad for a first timer!

Geraldine and her schoolmates also participated in the recent 2022 LACCD Cup in the tablescape category and won third place.

Looking ahead Geraldine plans to be a chef in a restaurant and hopes to be a culinary arts instructor in community college. She also looks forward to joining more culinary competitions. MasterChef, watch out!

As a bonus, Chef Geraldine has generously shared the recipe of her award-winning Ginataang Mais. Enjoy!

GinataanG ❦ MAiS ❦ SERVES PREPARATION TIME: COOKING TIME:

2 15 mins 30 mins

INGREDIENTS 1/2 cup glutinous rice (washed and drained) 3/4 cup water 1 cup coconut milk 1 cup fresh or frozen whole corn kernels (washed and drained) 1 cup fresh granulated sugar 1/2 cup coconut cream For topping: Creamy Coconut Sauce 1/2 cup coconut cream 2 tbsp white sugar 1 1/2 tbsp rice flour plus water (for slurry) 1pc pandan leaf or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) Garnish 6pcs

Thai basil leaves Coconut sugar as needed

DIRECTIONS CREAMY SAUCE

Put all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer in a low heat until sugar is dissolved. Stir frequently. Serve warm or cold for dessert topping.

GINATAANG MAIS

1. In a pot, combine the coconut milk, water, glutinous rice, and corn, and bring to a boil over high heat.

2. Once it boils, lower heat and let it simmer and cover with a lid for about 15 to

20 mins or until the glutinous rice and corn are almost cooked. Stir from time to time to prevent glutinous rice from sticking into the pot.

3. Add the coconut cream and sugar.

Stir well.

4. Continue to cook for another 5 to 10 mins, or until glutinous rice and corn is soft and cooked through.

5. Transfer to a serving bowl while still warm and top with creamy coconut sauce and garnish with Thai basil and coconut sugar. Enjoy!

READER ENGAGEMENT Inviting our readers to try Chef Geraldine's Ginataang Mais recipe and send in your photo with caption. Top picks will appear next issue.

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AUSTRIA

KUBŌ22 - Kultur Bayanihan Ōsterreich [unapologetically 2022

Filipino.leider kreativ] A Text by Gerard Rabara

n open call for Filipino talent and creativity has been in full swing since early spring for the premiere of KUBŌ - Kultur Bayanihan Ōsterreich [1], scheduled to be held this year, from September 2-4 in Vienna, Austria. “​​ This 2022, KUBŌ premieres the first multi-day event to celebrate, dis-

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cover, and understand what being Filipino means for the young creatives of the diaspora. It aims to provide a space to come together as a community of friends, seekers and curious spectators to celebrate Filipino culture through dialogue, creative collaboration, artistic expression and meaningful discovery as a global Pinoy family.”

KUBŌ’s desire to pool together the young Filipino talents of Europe in a Roots&Wings

show of force, is the next step towards affirming the next generation’s desire for more visibility and taking up space. Initiated by a group of young people in the creative industries, who have found an ally in Sentro ng Kultura at Wika ng Austria at Pilipinas (Zentrum für österreichische und philippinische Kultur und Sprache) [2], it is the event’s wish to pick up where Sentro’s recent book “Common Diversities” [3] started and continue trying to define and underline the Filipino experience and what it means to be Filipinos of the next generation in Austria through a celebration of our collective arts and culture.

Kunst, Kultur, Kulinarik (Art, Culture, Culinary) is the driving force of the festival, featuring different media and expressions of art from various contributors and artists, a showing of culture in numerous interpretations, both traditional and contemporary, and a salo-salo of mouthwatering flavors every Pinoy palate craves.

One can take part in important conversations through panels and workshops throughout the mornRoots&Wings

ings, while the stage opens in the late afternoon for young amateurs to compete in a talent show; then towards the evening, an array of top performances from some of the most notable talents, design professionals, and creators working in the region today and their work will be the highlight of this 3-day celebration of being “unapologetically filipino・leider kreativ,” [“unapologetically filipino ・ unfortunately creative”] all in the backdrop of exhibited art, film showings, and a mini makeshift “palengke” featuring culinary treats from the community’s talented cooks & bakers.

“We are heirs of a proud story of migration, connected by a common heritage, and bound by a shared geography. Ours is a story not like that of those that came before us, but a story of our own.

As next generation Austrian-born, or raised, Filipinos, we often find ourselves asking or being questioned about our identity and belonging. The answer is never simple. It is never just one thing.

It is confrontational at times and amusing at best. Constantly seek-

ing a place between two worlds, trying to make sense of what it means to be in the middle, uncompromising and unapologetic, yet for us it is authentic and true.

As young Filipino creatives, we have taken it upon ourselves to continue this journey of discovery in the form of artistic and creative expression. What does it mean to be a young Filipino creative in Austria? Who are we as a community and children of the diaspora? Where do we draw inspiration from? If you’ve asked yourself similar questions in your creative journey, let us claim space together and celebrate being Filipino through our respective medium.”

Visit our Instagram accounts @kultur.bayanihan and @sentro_ aut_phl and websites to find out more about the activities.

RELATED STORY:

Common Diversities

www.zentrum-oep.at www.kubo-austria.com Culture

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Directory of Philippine Embassies in Europe Roots & Wings e-Publications have been making an impact on the Euro-Filipino community in the last dozen years by promoting Filipino culture, art, entrepreneurship, outstanding Filipinos in various fields, community events and providing current contacts to diplomatic missions within Europe. See list here.

AUSTRIA

Tel (+45) 7141-5952

60322 Frankfurt Am Main

Embassy of the Philippines, Vienna

Emergency (+45) 2273-3933

H.E. Irene Susan B. Natividad

Email: copenhagen.pe@dfa.gov.ph

Federal Republic of Germany

Chargé d’Affaires, ad interim

Facebook: @PHinDenmark

Tel (+49) (0) 69 8700 66900

20th and 21st Floor, ARES Tower

WWW.COPENHAGENPE.DFA.GOV.PH

Hotline (+49) (0) 151 6248 7425

Donau-City-Strasse 11, A-1220 Vienna, Austria

Assistance to Nationals (+49) (0) 151 5354 6841

FINLAND

Email: frankfurt.pcg@dfa.gov.ph

Tel (+43-1) 533-2401

Embassy of the Philippines, Greater Helsinki

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/

Emergency Tel (+43-6991) 232-2034

Vice Consul, ad honorem Mdme. Teresita

PHinFrankfurt/

Email: vienna.pe@dfa.gov.ph

Zurbano Ruutu

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Tel (+358) 407 071 817 EMAIL: TERESITA.RUUTU@SAUNALAHTI.FI

BELGIUM Embassy of the Philippines, Brussels

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H.E. Ambassador Eduardo José A. De Vega

Embassy of the Philippines, Paris

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H.E Ambassador Junever M. Mahilum-West

Athens, Greece

Tel (+32-2) 34033-77 to 78

4 Hameau de Boulainvilliers

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Emergency Tel (+32-4) 8860-9177

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(+30210) 672-1883

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75016 Paris, France

672-1837

brusselspe@gmail.com

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(+30-697) 968-2921

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ATHENSPE@OTENET.GR

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GERMANY

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(+420) 224-216397 /

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224-216385

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Emergency Tel (+420) 607-850-764

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Arne Jacobsens Alle 13, 1st Floor, 2300

Westend Carree

Emergency (+972-54) 466-1188

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(+972-54) 466-1188

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Email: telaviv.pe@dfa.gov.ph;

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H.E. Consul Raul Dado

filembis@netvision.net.il

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Charge d’ affaires, ad interim

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PORTUGAL ITALY

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H.E. Ambassador Celia Anna M. Feria

H.E. Ambassador Domingo P. Nolasco

Rua Barata Salgueiro 30–3 andar

Viale delle Medaglie d’Oro 112-114

1250-044 Lisbon, Portugal

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00136 Rome, Italy

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216-083-277

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3005 Berne, Switzerland

(+39) 328-690-7613

E-mail: lisbon.pe@dfa.gov.ph

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lisbon.pe@gmail.com

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info@philembassyberne.ch

RUSSIAN FEDERATION THE NETHERLANDS

SWITZERLAND

Embassy of the Philippines, Moscow

Facebook: @PHinSwitzerland WWW.BERNEPE.DFA.GOV.PH

EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES,

H.E. Ambassador Carlos D. Sorreta

THE HAGUE

Karmanitsky Pereulok 8

Permanent Representative

H.E. Ambassador Jose Eduardo Malaya

Building 1, 121099

H.E. Ambassador Evan P. Garcia

(incoming)

Moscow, Russian Federation

47 Avenue Blac, 1202 Geneva

Tel (+31) 70360-4820

Tel (+7-499) 241-0563; 241-0564; 241-0565)

Switzerland

Emergency (+31)(0) 65261-1079

Email: moscow.pe@dfa.gov.ph

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Email: thehague.pe@dfa.gov.ph / thehague@

moscowpe@mailfrom.ru

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philembassy.nl

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Facebook: @PHinTheNetherlands

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gmail.com genevapm.dfa.gov.ph

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SPAIN NORWAY

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/GENEVAPCG

Embassy of the Philippines, Madrid

UNITED KINGDOM

Embassy of the Philippines, Oslo

H.E Ambassador Philippe J. Lhuillier

H.E. Ambassador Enrico T. Fos

Calle Eresma 2, 28002 Madrid, Spain (Chancery)

Embassy of the Philippines, London

Nedre Vollgate 4, 0158 Oslo, Norway

Calle Guadalquivir 6, 28002 Madrid, Spain

H.E. Ambassador Antonio Manuel R. Lagdameo

P.O. Box 1758 VIKA N-0122 Oslo, Norway

(Consular Section)

6-8 Suffolk Street, London SW1Y 4HG

(+47) 224-00900 (+47) 224-00900

Tel (+34) 917-823-830 / 917-823-836; 917-451-

United Kingdom of Great Britain

Emergency (+47) 902 41 171

734 (Consular Section)

Tel (+44) 20-7451-1780

Email: helpdesk@philembassy.no

Emergency (+34) 616-491-861

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Email: madrid.pe@dfa.gov.ph /

Email: london.pe@dfa.gov.ph /

madridpe@yahoo.com

embassy@philemb.co.uk

Consular: info@philembassymadrid.

Facebook: @PHLinUK

Philippine Consulate, Reykjavik, Iceland

com / consular@philembassymadrid.com

WWW.LONDONPE.DFA.GOV.PH

H.E. Consul Maria Priscilla Zanoria a.h

Facebook: @PHinSpain

Skógarsel 39

www.philembassymadrid.com

109 Reykjavik, Iceland

WWW.MADRIPE.DFA.GOV.PH

ICELAND

Tel (+354) 897 5391

VATICAN, ITALY Embassy of the Philippines, Vatican Hon. (Mr.) Charlie P. Manangan

Consulate General Barcelona

Charge d’ Affaires

Consul General Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro

Via Paolo VI, 29, 00193 Rome, Italy

Rambla de Catalunya 33, Planta Principal 08007

Tel (+39-06) 6830-8020

Embassy of the Philippines, Warsaw

Barcelona, Spain

Email: vatican.pe@dfa.gov.ph /

H.E. Ambassador Leah M. Basinang-Ruiz

+34 938 28 83 12

vaticanpe2@gmail.com

Ul. Lentza 11, 02-956 Warsaw, Republic of Poland

BARCELONAPCG.CONSULAR@DFA.GOV.PH

https://dfa.gov.ph/about/dfa-directory/our-

EMAIL: PHILCONSUL@SIMNET.IS

POLAND

foreign-service-posts-dfa

Tel +48 22 490 2025 and +48 694 491 664 Emergency +48 604 357 396 Email: warsaw.pe@dfa.gov.ph

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SWEDEN

WWW.VATICANPE.DFA.GOV.PH

Embassy of the Philippines, Stockholm

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UK

100 Miracles of Our Blessed Mother Text by Myla Arceno, MCSP Images from Sharon Taylor, Myla Arceno & Betsy von Atzigen

I

n honour of the 100th year of the Legion of Mary, the book 100 Miracles of Our Blessed Mother was launched on 18 August 2022 at St. Joseph's Church, Stevenage UK. The book is a collection of selected stories by various authors across continents published in English and German.

delayed her plans on that day in order to usher Direk and Betsy to St. Joseph's Church, venue of the book launch. Guests from the local government and church community attended in good number.

The organizers greeted, welcomed, and seated everyone. Short speeches followed on how the book initiative came about, how authors were invited and how the stories evolved.

To celebrate the centenary of the Legion of Mary in concrete ways, these stories echo personal experiences of the writer, bringing to light the wondrous interventions of the Blessed Mother in the lives of believers and non-believers alike in different countries, over a hundred years.

By way of introduction to the book, Betsy asked

The Book Launch It was a beautiful occasion to launch the book 100 Miracle Stories co-auAn anthology thored by friends and conof short stories on the centenary tacts around the world, lovingly edited and published of the Legion of Mary in English and German by main co- author Elizabeth (Betsy) Jance von Atzigen. Betsy came all the way me to read one story. from Switzerland to bring the printed books to our special UK launch. There was travel anxiety on that My Story: The Young Doubting Thomas day in London due to the National Railway strike, but The miracle I wrote and shared at the launch was it didn't deter us. We all knew blessings await those about the challenges of a parent of a growing teenagwho firmly believe. er and how I surpassed them all with faith, impacting Betsy was met at the train station by Direk Ra- education, leveraging our community, parish, and somon Tenoso, International Award-winning film di- ciety. As I was reading my story aloud, I was looking rector and co-author, together with Marisal Bos, one at my son John and it made me so happy to be able of our ardent online rosary group members. Marisal to share his story, in the hope that readers may also 40

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be inspired by the 99 other stories in this book. We both know that there will always be challenges along the way but with faith and prayers, the road may be long and bumpy yet fulfilling. Let us not give up on our miracle.

Mckay, Stevenage CLP - Kevin Bonavia and Graham Spence, Chinese- Filipino community - Aravel Cheng and Stephanie, retired Deputy Head Teacher - Mrs. Rosemary Sherry and Couples for Christ - Rosebelle Acosta.

Guests and Attendees A beautiful diversity of guests and attendees came together on this awesome day. This was not just a book launch, but a gathering of a close-knit community, regardless of faith and belief. We are a part of humanity that shares similar challenges and difficulties.

We were honoured by the presence of our Stevenage Mayor Cllr Margaret Notley and Stevenage parish priest Fr. Michael Doherty who gave his blessings and prayers. Professor Dr. Shahid Anis Khan Executive Committee Member of Stevenage Muslim Community Centre and our Lister Hospital Consultant highlighted the importance of unity in our community. He shared the significance of the Blessed Mother in his early Catholic education in Karachi. Stevenage Borough Council Leader Sharon Taylor, an advocate for Women Power, reminded us of the importance of the woman in all aspects of society, and of the Blessed Mother herself.

We are grateful for the presence of the Irish Network of Stevenage - Peggy and Luke, the Polish Community - Gosia Poczo and friend, the Sikh community and the World Forum - Charanjit Kang, Welwyn Garden City Parishioners - Joy Muceros and friend, work colleague Gurjit, Westminster diocese pilgrimage team - Grace , Lois and Dr Syzgula, Cllr Maureen

Co- Author, Editor and Publisher Elizabeth (Betsy) Jance von Atzigen is co- author, editor and publisher of the book 100 Miracles of Our Blessed Mother. Betsy is the elected president of the Legion of Mary - Zurich Comitium in Switzerland and Liechtenstein, correspondent / coordinator for the Legion Curia in Bergen, Norway and president of the Legion Praesidium in Wil, Canton St. Gallen. She is an Ilongga (like me) from Bacolod City, Philippines.

She is an inspiring woman of faith. We are truly blessed that she keeps us in her prayers.

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50 Days of Easter and Katagman Film The launch of another book “50 Days of Easter”, authored by dear friend Mary Tondo / Hyacinth Reguindin made the day even more memorable. Written for 50 days from Easter of 2020, the book contains a series of reflections in the time of the Coronavirus pandemic from the point of view of a trying-hard Christian. But anyone and everyone can relate to this, as the whole of humankind have been affected by Covid.

It is available on amazon.com in both paperback and Kindle edition.

After putting a well-written Ilonggo script with English subtitles in motion, Ramon Tenoso - playwright and artistic director - shared his film “Katag-

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man”, which was produced in collaboration with the Oton, Iloilo government.

The film Katagman highlights the history, culture and people of his hometown Oton, a municipality of the Province of Iloilo in Panay. Katagman also happens to be the name of the municipality’s annual festival of week-long celebrations commemorating the town’s foundation. This fabulous film has been entered into various International and European film competitions. We wish Direk Ramon and his team the very best!

Behind the Scenes It was the work of friends in Faith that made the event run smoothly and beautifully. Lynne our church secretary, booked the church hall for us that day; Fiona Keeley and Josephine Newton - our First Communion Class team, came early to help with the table and chair set up; Cheryl Orlina and Nancy Velasquez - both significant members of our parish, decorated the hall with table cloths and flower centrepieces; Bernadette Herbert - our church Safeguarding Officer, came with her yummy homemade sausage rolls; Mike Doyle - arrived with crunchy spring rolls lovingly prepared by his wife Ate Vicky; and young Mary - our altar server came to help, this time to serve food and drinks.

How blessed we were to have most of the pillars and significant members of our Parish at the launch.

Stevenage CLP Kevin Bonavia, Betsy von Atzigen & Deputy Mayor Myla Arceno

The Finale To close a memorable day, powerful prayers and songs of worship were shared among us who stayed behind to tidy up. It was indeed a wonderful celebration of faith, unity, and camaraderie in our community, and we felt so blessed!

Leaving Stevenage after the event at around 5pm did not pose a problem despite the train strike that day. We did have our own ‘Mary’ on our side Mary Tondo / Hyacinth Reguindin, the book author of 50 Days of Easter herself. She drove Betsy back to where they needed to be. How perfect!

Your copy The 100 Miracles of Our Blessed Mother book is a gift, thanks to publisher Betsy. She and I wish to express our gratitude to all who contributed towards its publication costs.

A complimentary book in English or German may be obtained from elizabeth.vonatzigen@ gmail.com. Contribution towards the publication and shipping costs is appreciated.

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Stevenage Deputy Mayor Myla Arceno, Mayor Margaret Notley & book publisher Betsy von Atzigen

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PHILIPPINES

A meet up with Rawmags founder & publisher Rachel Hansen

Text by Rebecca Torres Images by Marizel Arambulo

with her youngest daughter, Jenny, then 18 year old Communications student at the University of here do Stockholm. The mother you treat and daughter tandem a balikconceptualized a Filipibayan like no magazine covering Rachel Hansen, founder, what Filipinos in Europe publisher and first edi(Euro-Filipinos) would tor-in-chief of Roots & be interested to know Wings (Rawmags) who about the culture, people came all the way from and places in the PhilipSweden for a visit here in pines, Filipino events and the Philippines?

L-R: Roots & Wings Rachel Hansen, Becky Torres and Marizel Arambulo experiences in Europe.

It was a rainy last The first issue of Roots Saturday of July when & Wings featured the Marizel Arambulo and Blanco family headed by I, volunteer Social Entrepreneurship Team of Raw- Jose “Pitok” Blanco, modern and contemporary artmags, met Rachel for the first time in person. Rachel ist known for his folk art, Philippine regional scene is one of the sponsors of Rawmags Social Entrepre- painting from Angono, Rizal and Scott Tuason, an neurship Projects, who generously provided financial award winning underwater photographer. support for the rehabilitation of typhoon victims in Almost every year prior to the pandemic in 2020, Siargao and the funding of the education of high Rachel visited the Philippines, at times staying as school students from indigenous tribes in the Laura long as six (6) months. She has been involved in outVicuña Training Center in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. reach programs in the Philippines, such as the medThe homey Fely J’s Kitchen,* a Filipino Restaurant ical missions of Lingkod Timog (Serving the South) in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig Metro Manila, was in Davao, Compostela Valley and Tawi Tawi. She also our meeting place over lunch. We savoured crispy lent support for the Home for Girls in Palayan City, swahe (shrimps) for appetizer and heaping hot sin- Nueva Ecija; Bahay Tuluyan in Malate, Manila and igang na boneless bangus (milkfish) with nontradi- Bahay Kanlungan in Quezon City. tional souring agent of green almost ripe bayabas After ten (10) years of publishing the bimonthly (guavas), hearty seafood kare kare with bagoong and Roots and Wings magazine, the editorship of the Filrice topped with dilis (dried fish) aptly called ‘Dil- ipino-European online magazine was turned over in iscious Rice’ for our main dishes.

2019 to Elizabeth (Betsy) von Atzigen.

Rachel shared how Roots & Wings started in 2009, Rachel in turn asked Marizel and myself how

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we got to be involved in Roots and Wings. Both of us shared that we are bankers by profession. Since October 2020, we both tried out creative writing by submitting articles and photos to Rawmag’s Reader Engagement. Because of our business/ banking background, Betsy solicited our support to plan the launch of Rawmags’ Social Entrepreneurship Program last February 2022, coinciding with the magazine’s 12th anniversary.

By this time, we were ready for dessert, we chose Sikreto ni Maria Clara, a creamy ice cream with macapuno bits and hidden underneath was Maria Clara’s secret…husshh!! relish the sweet and juicy slices of ripe Philippine mango and suman (rice cake)!

We discussed Rawmags Social Entrepreneurship Program’s urgent need for more engagement and sponsorship coming from Euro-Filipinos. Ideas were floated such as tapping on Filipino communities through the Philippine Embassies and Consular Offices in European countries and as well as organising fund raising events. Rachel pointed out that “there is so much basic need waiting to be met in the Philippines. One need not look very far. But of course, ed44

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ucation must be prioritised - school supplies, school uniforms, tuition fees that the poor cannot afford.”

As a popular Filipino hospitality tradition, Marizel and I gifted Rachel with a Filipiniana scarf which “feels like angora wool” according to her and a recycled native bag from Kultura.** Rachel in turn gave us Swiss chocolates, a rosary from a trip to Israel and scented jasmine and almond bars of soap from Italy.

It felt like we knew each other from years ago, even though it was our first meet up. The conversation with Rachel on Rawmags’ Social Entrepreneurship was indeed fruitful. Marizel and I are encouraged with Rachel’s enthusiasm over a variety of ideas on how the newly launched Social Entrepreneurship Program can gain momentum in garnering more active participation from Euro-Filipinos to support needy kababayans in the Philippines. *Fely J Kitchen Restaurant is located at the 2nd floor of the Uptown Mall, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines ** Kultura is located in various SM Malls in the Philippines.

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2022 SEP 05

ANTON MIGUEL DE VERA

HEAD OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Anton joined the Roots & Wings family in June 2021, as part of the Social Media team. He has successfully led Roots & Wings special projects, such as our live ‘Reflection’ series on Facebook and is a recurring author/ contributor to the magazine.

Anton will be assuming Head of RW Social Media moving forward.

Please join us in congratulating Anton and wishing him the very best in his new role!

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Roots&Wings Rawmags Team 47 Roots & Wings is proud and grateful to IDC ITALPINAS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, sponsor of our Social Entrepreneurship Program.

THE SOUNDS of Boracay inviting you for a swim. The sights of Mindanao teasing you with her natural wonders. The narratives of Old Manila warming up for another storytelling.

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PLAN your trip in advance Take time to build your itinerary. The country is home to breathtaking natural wonders best explored during the dry season from November to April. If traveling during the rainy season, be extra prepared given the likelihood of typhoons and interruptions in your itinerary.

Ask for help from friends or a reliable travel agency in advance, too. Sorting out months before the trip could mean cheaper rates and more fun prep time! As always, having that “all set” mindset has its perks.

3

PACK smartly and efficiently

TIPS FOR A SAFE AND SMOOTH TRIP TO THE PHILIPPINES

Your dear Philippines is waving at you! Now that travel restrictions are more lenient, don't you think it's about time to give yourself a much-needed vacation to your beautiful country? But wait! Before you get too excited, let’s zero in on the plans first. In any tropical getaway, anything could happen - the good, the memorable, and even the unexpected. And that could include medical emergencies. That’s why it's best to always be prepared. Like any cautious Filipino would say, 'Dapat advance mag-isip.’

So while preparing for your trip, check out these tips to help keep your travel safe, smooth, and ever-ready!

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Just like documents, travel essentials are important too! Your checklist may include: > Cash or ATM card > Face mask > Toiletries and sanitizers > Medications > Mobile devices and charger > Universal adapter > Lightweight clothes > Travel/tourist sim (available in airports) Some brands you’re using may not be available in the Philippines so it pays to check beforehand. Or you can simply bring your grooming essentials in small, refillable travel bottles - such as your mosquito repellent or sunblock lotion. Well, hello there, sunbathing in Cebu!

Be prepared to bring a universal adapter with multiple USB ports as well. This comes handy in countries with different plug-ins or outlets. Lastly, take note of the items prohibited on planes to avoid delays.

2

BRING the necessary documents…all the time. Keep the following in a secure, weather-resistant document case or wallet: > Passport > Plane ticket > IDs > Prepaid Emergency health card > Vaccination card > COVID-19 test result (if required) For additional requirements under the new normal, contact the Philippine Embassy, Consulate General, or other travel-related government agencies. Process them in advance to steer clear of any issues.

PRO-TIP: Duplicate your documents in both print and electronic form and bring them wherever you may go! You’ll never know when you’ll need to present them…just right before your Subic Safari adventure, perhaps?

4

TRAVEL with a partner if necessary Having a reliable companion can keep stress at bay, especially for seniors who need assistance. Plus, you’ve got yourself a buddy in everything you’ll do - island hopping in Caramoan, rappelling in Bohol, and so much more!

But if you're traveling solo, that’s fine, too! Just make sure you have emergency contacts within reach.

5

STAY PROTECTED throughout your trip. Follow health guidelines and safety measures to reduce the risk of infection (remember, COVID is still not on vacation mode). More importantly, be prepared for any unwanted emergencies.

For your peace of mind, dapat advance mag-isip.

Maxicare EReady Advance prepaid emergency health card can help cover your medical bills and confinement charges, just in case emergencies happen during your trip. The affordable health card also covers consultations in Maxicare Primary Care Clinics nationwide for your convenience.

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Truly, staying protected can make your travel more relaxing.

Being ready is key to a smooth, safe, and seamless travel. Aren’t adventures more exciting when you can navigate them without worries?

After all, it’s way better to have your jaw dropped by our country’s white sands and abundant wonders than by a whopping hospital bill! So get that planning going and be “advance mag-isip” with Maxicare EReady Advance.

Maxicare EReady Advance is the perfect affordable prepaid emergency health card for tourists or OFWs visiting the Philippines. No paperwork required. Shop now!

Roots & Wings is proud and grateful to MAXICARE HEALTHCARE CORPORATION, sponsor of our Social Entrepreneurship Program Roots&Wings

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