YES PHILIPPINES News Magazine October 2019

by Mary Sol Pimentel

ITH ITS amazing worldclass beaches and terrains, the Philippines is truly a beautiful country. This can also be truly said of its people wherever they may be.

Throughout the years, a lot of Filipinas have been frontrunners in beauty pageants all over the world. In our October issue, our cover features a 20-year-old lass from Tunbridge Wells in Kent. Ms. Keisha Quijano is this year’s Miss Philippines UK winner held recently at Porchester Hall in London. The newly crowned titleholder is indeed the embodiment of beauty and brains. She blew everybody away in the Q&A segment of the pageant. She currently studies Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Durham University.

At the Holiday Inn in Kensington, another queen was crowned. Mrs.

Clarisse Ann Lagman Azevedo became Mrs. Philippines UK 2019 after months of preparation and a very tight competition with several other candidates. Mrs. Azevedo and the rest of the Mrs. Philippines UK 2019 candidates are proof that beauty continues on even in motherhood.

We also feature the stories of Philipp Tampus who debuted his collection, a unique mix of Filipino and international fabrics, in the London Fashion Week; and, Silverlens’, a Makati-based art gallery, who participated in Frieze London.

It truly fills our hearts with pride every time the beauty and talents of our fellow kababayans here in the United Kingdom come to fore. We are truly happy that we are fulfilling our purpose of becoming a platform that showcases their achievements and successes.

“

It truly fills our hearts with pride every time the beauty and talents of our fellow kababayans here in the United Kingdom come to fore.

PHILIPPINE GALLERY JOINS LONDON’S BIGGEST CONTEMPORARY ART FAIR T

BY STACY DANIKA ALCANTARA

HE PHILIPPINES participates for the first time in Frieze London, one of the world’s largest contemporary art fairs, from 04 to 06 October 2019.

Frieze London attracts more than 60,000 visitors annually, who are mostly curators, gallerists, collectors, and art critics.

Silverlens, a Makati-based art gallery, will participate in the Themed Section of Frieze London 2019 with a solo exhibition of Pacita Abad’s Immigrant Experience series. The exhibition will be Abad’s first posthumous

Silverlens’ participation in Frieze London through a solo exhibition of Pacita Abad’s works could not have been timelier,

show.

“Silverlens’ participation in Frieze London through a solo exhibition of Pacita Abad’s works could not have been timelier,” said Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo. “London’s diverse immigrant communities, especially the Filipino community, contribute greatly in enriching the city’s culture. Throughout her lifetime, Abad’s works have resonated among the world’s immigrant communities.”

Abad’s upcoming exhibition is an attempt to revisit the artist’s extensive work in textile, particularly her trapunto paintings. Trapunto a type of quilting technique that gives the canvas and multidimensional effect.

“In Abad’s textiles, the immigrant’s experience is kaleidoscopic and complex,” said art critic Carlos Quijon. “Her way with fabric evokes the simultaneous overwhelming strangeness of new places and their dizzying splendor…In Abad’s works, the immigrant is both exemplary and commonplace.”

Abad’s works continue to create a buzz in London’s artistic circles following a recent acquisition of three of the artist’s works by Tate Modern, London’s foremost contemporary art gallery.

L.A. Liberty, 1992

Acrylic, cotton yam, plastic buttons, mirrors, gold thread, painted cloth on stitched and padded canvas 94.9 in x 57.87 in (239 cm x 147 cm)

community news

THE government has announced the return of the Post Study Work Visa, which had been abolished in May 2012 by Theresa May in her position as Home Secretary. The Post Study Work Visa allows graduates to look for work at any skills level for a period of two years after completing their courses of higher education in the United Kingdom. There is currently no cap on the number of students that will be allowed to apply under the new route.

THE REINTRODUCTION OF THE TWO-YEAR POST STUDY WORK VISA

BY HARRY KHAN

Background

The Post Study Work Visa was originally introduced as the Science and Engineering Graduate Scheme in 2004. This visa category was only open to graduates who had completed certain specific subjects and they were permitted to remain in the United Kingdom for 12 months after graduating. In 2007 the route was changed to what came to be known as the International Graduate Scheme. From 2008 this route was included into the Points Based System as the Tier 1 (Post Study Work) Visa while the period of leave was extended to two years. The Post Study Work Visa under Tier 1 of the Points Based System was subsequently abolished by Theresa May in 2012.

Reintroduction

The Department for Education has said “The new immigration route would be available to international students who have successfully completed a course in any subject at undergraduate level or higher at a higher education provider with a track record of compliance, and have Tier 4 [student visa] Leave at the point the route is introduced. This includes students who start courses in 2020-21 at undergraduate level or above.”

Students and Universities alike have welcomed the reintroduction of the twoyear Post Study Work Visa. The previous abolition of this route had been strongly criticised by Universities, which saw it as a

deterrent to international students wishing to choose the UK for their higher education, especially in light of the fact that other top international destinations for higher education such as the USA, Canada and Australia offer similar post-graduation visa routes.

The Home Secretary, Priti Patel, has been noted as saying “the new graduate route will mean talented international students, whether in Science and Math or Technology and Engineering, can study in the United Kingdom and then gain valuable work experience as they go on to build successful careers.”

Those who successfully obtain a Post Study Work Visa could then switch into the Skilled Work Route if they find employment that meets the skills requirements for that route. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that the reintroduction of the Post Study Work Visa would allow international students “to unlock their potential and start their career in the UK.”

The reintroduction of the Post Study Work Visa is clearly a positive move by the government after the extremely negative tone of Theresa May’s era of restrictions on student visas, both as Prime Minister and Home Secretary. We can only hope that the government will continue to follow this stance and make changes to other areas of immigration law where there is an urgent need for the regulatory framework to be updated and aligned with the current social and economic demands of the country.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that the reintroduction of the Post Study Work

Visa would allow international students

“to unlock their potential and start their career in the UK.

“ ”

immigration corner

TWO PHILIPPINE COMPANIES WIN MARITIME INDUSTRY AWARDS

BY STACY DANIKA ALCANTARA

TWO Philippine companies were recently recognized during the 2019 Safety at Sea Awards (SASA) in London. SASA is an annual awards ceremony aimed at honouring the hard work of people and organizations in addressing pressing issues faced by the maritime industry and in promoting a safe and secure working environment among all those who work in the

said industry.

Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc (PTC) was named Maritime Employer of the Year for its unwavering commitment in maintaining excellent working practices while at the same time ensuring the safety and security of its crew.

Philippine Center Advance Simulation and Training (PHILCAMSAT), on the other hand, brought home the Best Crew Training Programme Award for the successfully implementation of his Human

Element Leadership and Management Level (HELM) programme. HELM aims to equip top officers with the skills needed in responding to crisis situations.

“The recognition given to two Philippine companies for their achievements and best practices in the maritime sector attests of the Philippines’ leading role in one of the world’s most important industries,” said Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo.

Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo (3rd from left), together with Consul General Senen Mangalile (leftmost) and Maritime Attaché Sonio Malaluan (rightmost), receive a group of PTC representatives before the SASA Awarding Ceremony.

PH AMBASSADOR BRIEFS BRITISH MPS ON NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN PH-UK TIES

AMBASSADOR Antonio M. Lagdameo briefed the members of the All Party Parliamentary Group on the Philippines (APPGPH) on developments in Philippines-UK relations and the upcoming Philippine-UK High-Level Meeting during the APPG-PH Annual General Meeting at Portcullis House, Westminster on 04 September 2019.

During the meeting, the Ambassador also updated the APPG-PH on recent domestic developments in the Philippines, including some of the country’s latest regional and multilateral engagements.

The Ambassador and APPG PH Chair Sir David Amess MP discussed ways on promoting and strengthening inter-parliamentary relations between Philippine and British legislators such as the establishment of a Philippines-UK Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group.

embassy news

PH AMBASSADOR RECEIVES SECRETARY OF NATIONAL DEFENSE

Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo received Philippine Secretary of National Defense Delfin N. Lorenzana and a delegation composed of representatives and officials from the Department of National Defense (DND), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine Air Force, and the Philippine Navy at the chancery on 10 September 2019.Secretary Lorenzana and his delegation attended the Defense and Security Equipment International Exhibition (DSEI 2019) in London from 10-13 September 2019. Photo by Eric Ricafort

Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo joins Sir David Amess MP, Chair of the APPG-PH during the APPG-PH’s Annual General Meeting.

Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo welcomes Secretary of National Defense Delfin N. Lorenzana at the Embassy on 10 September 2019. Photo by Eric Ricafort

ELECTS NEW BOARD MEMBERS

BY CRYSTAL DIAS

CONGRATULATIONS to the newly elected Board Members and Eleanor Templeman as the new Chairman of 2019-2020.

The Filipino Women’s Association Annual General Meeting was held on Saturday, 14th September 2019 at the Royal Garden Hotel, London.

The meeting was well attended by many of the existing members including entrepreneur Rowena Romulo of Romulo Café in South Kensington and Deputy Mayor Cynthia Barker of Hertsmere Borough Council. Jeannette Thomson presented her final Chairman's report and Raquel Scrivens her final Treasurer's report for the year 2018-2019.

Ms Eleanor Templeman, the

newly elected Chairman, is an interpreter and a long standing member of the FWA-UK who is passionate about taking action against modern-slavery and human trafficking.

FWA-UK has a vision of a world where women, especially Filipino women living in the United Kingdom and in the Philippines enjoy equality, respect and opportunities for development in all aspects of life in the home and in the wider community.

FWA-UK would like to thank those who attended this historic meeting and they encourage members to be proactive and contribute towards the vision and mission of this prestigious Association.

We wish the newly elected Board Members good luck and a successful 2019-2020!

FWA-UK EXECUTIVE BOARD

FILIPINO WOMEN’S

ASSOCIATION-UK

Towards a homegrown Cuisine

ONE OF THE young restaurateurs revitalizing the Davao City’s food scene the past few years, Chef Darence Patrick Co has again put a new concept heading towards a homegrown Davao cuisine.

His Filipino Food Movement which he launched at his Asian Cow Restaurant is a food campaign inspired by the flavors

of Davao City.

“Our Filipino food with this campaign is unpretentious and we focus on the roots and quality of the ingredients we boast with our own take on it,” Chef Patrick said.

During a food tasting night which Chef Patrick recently hosted, the invited media were treated with Filipino food movement dishes which he prepared. Among these included “Laing and Chicharon,” “Monggos,

Kawali and Danggit,” “Rellenong Bangus and Atsara,” “Sizzling Beef Tendon Pares,” and “Taho Panna Cotta.” The food featured were familiar and favorite Filipino dishes with a fresh exciting twist.

“These dishes are conceptualized thru memories and growing up as a Filipino, I’m sure all of these dishes are not new for Filipinos. I strongly believe that memories create the best dishes in the world because these tell a story,” Chef Patrick shares his inspiration for his

I know what we have is of top quality and we should use our best efforts to showcase the pristine harvest and agri-products of this region. My restaurant will always support local,

“ ”

Chef Darence Patrick Co at work in his kitchen.

By Rudolph Ian Alama

proudly pinoy

dishes under the Filipino Food Movement campaign.

Chef Patrick started in the business when he was just 20 years old. After graduating from Center for Asian Culinary Studies (CACS) and working briefly for Marco Polo Davao, he opened his first restaurant- Fat Cow in 2016. In 2018 he followed it up by opening Asian Cow.

He has always believed that a home-grown Davao cuisine is something that a Dabawenyo can be proud of.

“For me Davao cuisine is not limited to the ingredients, it’s about the personality of the city and the people cooking which will always reflect to be tough,

strong and resilient. My style is always Flavorful, Bold and New. Which I think is like Davao City, always moving forward, learning from mistakes and always spearheading anything with out looking back,” Chef Patrick said.

Support to local agriculture

Chef Patrick believes that a Davao cuisine mirrors the quality of the local agricultural products. The 23-year old chef has a strong belief in the quality of produce from local farmers.

He says their ingredients were sourced from local growers. The seafood, vegetables and pork meat are from local farmers.

“I know what we have is of top quality and we should use our best efforts to showcase the

Dabawenyo chefs and tourism stakeholders are moving towards creating a Davao Cuisine.

The Davao Tourism Association (DATA) of which Chef Patrick is a member, has made steps by creating a set of cuisine inspired by the heritage food of indigenous communities.

The set of dishes created by DATA member chefs will be featured during the One Davao Culinary Night, a fund-raising dinner which will be held on November 9 at the ballroom of the Marco Polo Davao in time for DATA’s 45th anniversary.

“We wanted to come up with a Davao cuisine, which we can call our own, we have a rich heritage of indigenous cuisine which will serve as our inspiration,” DATA president Gatchi Gatchalian said.

Chef Patrick is fully supportive of the project, initially he was supposed to join his fellow chefs but begged off due to a busy schedule.

“Dabawenyo palate changed a lot in the recent years, people are more game in trying new things and the demand for innovation and progress is high. So for me as a chef it puts me in a spot that I can’t rest innovating and trying to create new dishes but that’s what I love, and I will keep on feeding the Dabawenyos and people who go here at our resto with straight up delicious food,” Chef Patrick said. (PIA/RG Alama)

pristine harvest and agri-products of this region. My restaurant will always support local,” Chef Patrick declared.

His efforts have been recognized particularly by the Department of Tourism (DOT), and he flew to Manila to represent Davao Region in the DOT Kain Na event, a food festival featuring different dishes from seven regions of the country.

During the food festival held at the Ayala Mall Manila Bay, chef Patrick presented worldrenowned Malagos chocolates and Durian-based specialties, two well-known agricultural products of Davao Region.

Davao culinary movement

Just like Chef Patrick,

Pomelo at Pako with camaron rebosado. Pako (fern) is commonly found in Mindanao dishes while pomelo is a citrus fruit widely grown in Davao.

Monggo, Kawali at Danggit, familiar comfort food with a twist

On its 40th anniversary Miss Philippines UK hails new queens

FILIPINOS from all over the UK gathered at Porchester Hall Bayswater, London to witness the crowning of the Miss Philippines UK last September 21st on the ocassion of its 40th anniversary.

The contestants showed their grace and beauty through various attires, including casual wear, swimwear, and evening wear, as well as their talents through sets of production number.

Keishia Quijano, of Tunbirdge Wells, Kent was crowned new Miss Philippines UK. She was candidate number six who bested all 9 candidates. Quijano, also won the awards of Miss Charity, Miss friendship and Best in Casual Wear.

Meanwhile, Kiarra Ferreira won Best in Swim Wear and Claire Orr was awarded Best in Evening Wear. Crown runners-up were Clair Orr (1st runner-up), Kiarra Ferreira (2nd runner-up) and Pauline Joyce Alviz (3rd runner-up).

Quijano and the other winning queens are expected to represent the British Filipino community in other pageants and charity work throughout their year-long reign.

Miss Philippines UK was launched last July 27 on a registration day for aspiring candidates.

Winners (l-r) Claire Orr (1st runner-up, Keishia Quijano (Ms Philippines UK), Pauline Galvez (3rd runner-up), Kiarra Ferreira (2nd runner-up).

WANTED: DRIVER’S HELPER

A drivers helper works with drivers to deliver and collect boxes (empty or filled) to customers around the UK.

Includes loading/unloading the truck, interacting with customers, paperwork and handling money.

A fast-paced, outdoor position that requires the ability to continually lift heavy items and carry packages. Early starts and late finishes are common with this job, and people in this role often work weekends and holidays.

Applicants for this role should have excellent physical fitness, great customer service skills, and the ability to multitask and adhere to tight deadlines.

Pay is competitive.

Please apply by sending your CV to admin@pootenforwardinginternational.com

A Filipino Creative Feast at the House of Lords

By C. MENDEZ

PARKFLEET Consultancy & Services and Topline

Global & Investment Ltd.UK held a forum and fashion show called "Creative Economy Through Fashion” at the House of Lords on September 16.

The exclusive event took place at the Cholmondeley Room and Terrace. Panelists at the forum discussed about the tremendous business opportunities that Filipinos can undertake with the British and other nationalities.

The eloquent panelists were Dr. Vanessa Brady, OBE; Professor Mark WatsonGandy, barrister/CEO; Erik Lim, CEO and chairman of Topline; and Mike Acebedo Lopez, commissioner of the Cebu Ports Authority and

managing director of Topline. It was moderated by Stacy Danika Garcia, a consul at the Philippine Embassy in the UK.

While well-heeled and welldressed guests got a glimpse of the London Eye and the River Thames, Cebu-based designer Philipp Piezas Tampus showcased the ingenious uses of indigenous materials such as hablon and piña cocoon.

It was the first time in fashion history that a Filipino designer was able to present the finest of the Philippines at the Palace of Westminster.

"Creative Economy Through Fashion,” which aims to empower the farming sector that is the main source of materials for the fashion industry, is the brainchild of Marie Cordero Fairbank, the owner of Parkfleet

Consultancy.

“When I realized that our designers who come to the UK spend thousands or millions and go home without ROI because they have no access to business people for collaborations and business sustainability, I wanted to help in my own way,” said Fairbank, a doyenne in the Fil-Brit community in London, who is also the company secretary at Topline.

Topline’s business philosophy is “to provide services in the most responsive way, with the help of our trained employees, armed with the values of professionalism, initiative and trustworthiness” with the mission “to become a successful public company through our dynamic business portfolio in fuel, real estate, port development, energy and

technology.”

“I believed that to do a forum at the House of Lords, I’d be the first-ever Filipina to organize an event in such a prestigious place. The venue was chosen so we can attract high-profile business people, potential investors and government officials so we can link them to the designers,” said Mrs. Fairbank, whose husband David was also instrumental in the mounting of the event.

Among the posh attendees were lords and ladies, a diamond dealer, Deputy Chief of Missions Ambassador Frank Cimafranca and wife Lu Calunsag, Deputy Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Cynthia Alcantara-Barker, Bahrain-based designer Jugger Onate, hotelier Julie Aquino, businesswoman Eme Echavez, CareHands Ltd. director Elsa Binas and

Davawenyo UK president Midz Dagamac and Sorayda Cabaguio, former president of the Philippine Muslim Association in the UK..

“I wanted to promote the Philippines but starting first with Cebu, because that’s where I’m from. In my next event, I will include anyone that will support my cause,” Fairbank said. “I will also invite fashion designers from Africa, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.”

“It was the first time in fashion history that a Filipino designer was able to present the finest of the Philippines at the Palace of Westminster.

Creative Economy Through Fashion,” which aims to empower the farming sector that is the main source of materials for the fashion industry,

LEGASPI

Bianca Acebedo Lopez and Justin Salimbangon models from Cebu City for the finale number with Midz Dagamac ( in Philippine ethnic attire) President of Davawenyo –UK and other Filipino community members.

First board meeting of Topline

FILIPINO COMMUNITY LEADER OF THE MONTH

JEANNETTE THOMSON:

By Nenita Garrad

JEANNETTE’S voluntary active participation in the work of most of the committees from Day 1 has properly informed her to understand the Association in its totality. This, plus her unquestionable commitment made her a valued member and officer of the Executive Board, and highly qualified Chairman.

Equipped with this confidence, as Chairman, she led the amendment of the Constitution to make FWA-UK relevant to the present needs of the communities we serve. As a reminder of some of the activities she was involved with in the different committees throughout the years.

In the Scholarship and Grants Committee, she recommended that FWA-UK supported Kaibigan Ermita Outreach Foundation Inc. (KEOFI), a charity foundation that help poor children and families in Metro Manila for more than 25 years. FWA-UK sent funds for 3 years to help the street children who are being sheltered by the Foundation. Some of these children are products of prostitution, drug abuse and poverty.

During the preparations of the PND event, Jeannette assisted in the flower arrangements to decorate the tables at the venue. She enjoyed being involved in this activity which continue over the years. Selling tickets has always

FWA-UK Chairman 2017-2019

been a difficult task but she always managed to sell at least a table to support this major fundraising event. She was one of the members dealing with the production of the souvenir programme for the PND event and served as the main contact person of the designer in the production of the programme. She was emcee at this event for two consecutive years.

In the Membership Committee, Jeannette assisted in the organisation of the Salo Salo and the Christmas Party where she was an emcee once. She also choreographed and presented a Christmas dance with other members of FWA. She designed the membership form flyer to include vital information. She obtained, on behalf of the committee, benefits for members such as discounts at various business establishments such as Manila Supermarket, Josephine’s, Touch Spa, Cafe Romulo, Yumenoki.

With the Outreach Committee she collaborated by attending as many functions/charity events organised by Filcoms and the Support the Seniors activities.

She also collaborated with the Publicity Committee by uploading activities/events to FB, other social media sites and websites.

She formally presented to the board a worthwhile project called Support the senior citizens of FWA-UK and the community for approval. This was approved in November 2015.

For many years, Jeannette has devoted her energy towards making FWA-UK financially stable

through her initiatives in making full use of its charitable status to seek funding from private (Virgin Giving and Crowdfunding sites) and local government agencies (London Trust) as well as the benefit of the HMRC Gift aid. To date, she has raised a total of £13, 915 single handed through her own fundraising campaign and her successful application for Gift Aid. This is the first time that our Association received a sizeable amount from the initiative of one person.

Jeannette has been an exemplary ambassador for FWA-UK at all our events and those of the community. The production of the FWAUK information flyer has made us and our work more visible to our community and a great introduction to potential donors. Her achievements and accomplishments over the years that she serves FWA-UK as an active member, an officer and Chairman have been outstanding and there is nothing more admirable than to have someone like Jeannette whose performance and contributions go beyond her call of duties.

“

Jeannette has been an exemplary ambassador for FWA-UK ...

San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila celebrates Feast Day

BY CHIT AFUANG

THE Servite Filipino Community in Fulham organized a 9-day novena from 20 to 28 September at the Our Lady of Dolours Church. Each night a guest reader was invited to led and read the prayers. These include staff members of the Embassy of the Philippines and its attached agencies: Bea Martinez, Third Secretary, Vice Consul and Administrative Officer; Connie Marquez of POLO-OWWA and Maria Fe Mangalile, a Pag-ibig Representative; Mary Torno of Philippine Remittances, Servite parishioners Evelyn Lopez, Nhitz Lucena and Teody Alfante, a property investor. The parish also invited the Head Servant of Our Lord of Pardon Jun Lucero and Father Tom Banayag of St. Augustine Church in Hammersmith who also gave reflections during the novena.

The novena culminated with a grand concelebrated mass last 29 September, officiated by Father Allan Satur, OSM with the assistance of

Father Tom Banayag, OSA and Father Andy Rivera, OSA from St. Augustine Church. The Servite Church Choir under the baton of Maestro Henry Tolentino, ably supported by Gerard Chan and Geraldine Loo sung hymns in honour of San Lorenzo Ruiz. This made the mass really solemn and meaningful.

Adding significance to the wellattended mass was the presence of Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo and his address to the congregation highlighting the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and migrant workers to remain true to their faith like the patron saint --- San Lorenzo Ruiz. The Ambassador was joined in by Consul General Senen and Yen Mangalile.

Again, the parishioners demonstrated their spirit of ‘bayanihan at pagkakaisa’ at the salo-salo held after the mass at the School Hall of the Servite Church where everyone overwhelmingly contributed and shared their favourite food specialities which were overflowing.

Aguman Kapampangan crowns new Mrs Philippines

BY ESTELLA GOMEZ

During the two months between signup and competition night, I attended rehearsals and talked to candidates; we discussed how they balance family life, demanding careers, and the peculiar world of mothers’ pageantry. They all confessed that motherhood is not the end of being beautiful, but in fact a beginning of a new era of beautiful that is only experienced when starting a family of your own. pageantry raised personal spirit and boost their confidence and morale. It also helps them find their own identity as a middle aged woman. Each candidate agreed that pageantry raised personal spirit and boosted their confidence and morale, also helping them to find their own identity as a middle aged woman.

The much awaited night finally came, Mrs Philippines UK 2019, which

took place on the 14th of September at Holiday Inn, Kensington. The hotel was full of lovely gowns, costumes and accessories. The candidates were busy being beautified by their personal make-up artists and everyone was full of excitement. At about 5.30 the hotel was buzzing with smartly dressed gentlemen and elegantly dressed women. Reception was ably handled, with long queues of family, friends, sponsors, judges and guests.

The pageant began with the Philippine and British National anthem. Julius Maristella and Carol Panday were our emcees for the evening, welcoming our guests with enthusiasm. Estella Gomez (AK UK Secretary) led the short opening prayer. This was followed by a welcome from Joey Baluyut (AK UK President) who introduced our guest speaker, Deputy Chief of Mission, Frank Cimafranca from the Philippine Embassy London who gave an inspirational speech. The pageant started with an opening

dance presentation by the candidates, choreographed by Ronal Celabrados. The audience were also entertained with songs from our talented Filipino singers: Susan Lovejoy, Aldrin Daqui and Jennifer Juanitiz, the winner of Mrs Philippines UK 2016. The famous couple Imelda and Jerry San Agustin accompanied by dance group D’Mommas and The Groovers, showcased trendy dances, that made everyone wild with excitement.

The next part was the presentation of the candidates in their casual wear, and evening wear and Filipiniana. The ladies came out elegantly dressed. Their choice of colours and style were mesmerising and beautiful, shiny jewelleries and unmatched attention to detail. The interview followed, giving our candidates the opportunity for outspoken advocacy, sharing valuable ideas and opinions. The judges undoubtedly had a tough job scoring the stars of the night.

While waiting for the adjudicators, candidates, the MCs acknowledged and thanked the sponsors and donors, officers, members, and everyone involved, whom without the event would not have been an amazing success.

Months of preparation, countless emails, texts, 24/7 phone calls, meetings and rehearsals finally paid off as the event drew to a close, with happy faces of guests and candidates.

Thank you to all of our friends and those who attended, we appreciate your support and dedication which has enabled AGUMAN KAPAMPANGAN UK to continue working for the common good through fundraising events such as Mrs Philippines UK. Through these we are able to transform the lives of our beneficiaries in the Philippines for the better. Furthermore, our events allow us to bring the wider community together here in the United Kingdom and we are very thankful to continue sharing our journey with you.

RESULTS AND WINNERS:

MAJOR AWARDS:

Mrs Philippines UK 2019 –CLARISSE ANN LAGMAN AZEVEDO

Mrs Aguman Kapampangan UK

2019 – LYNETTE MEDINA MACEDA

Mrs Charity 2019 – FLOR UMANDAP

MINOR AWARDS:

Casual wear – MHARIZ SABADO

Evening gown - FLOR UMANDAP

Filipiniana – JENNIFER GARCIA

SPECIAL AWARDS:

Mrs Friendship 2019 – FE ZARSAGA

Mrs Popularity 2019 – FLOR UMANDAP

Mrs Photogenic 2019 – MHARIZ SABADO

Mrs Queen of Hearts 2019 –JENNIFER GARCIA

Mrs Role Model 2019 – LIEZEL LUGTO

Mrs Mother Earth 2019 –MARCELINA BLACKBURN

Mrs Personality 2019 – LYNETTE MEDINA MACEDA

Mrs Best Smile 2019 – CLARISS ANN LAGMAN AZEVEDO

Mrs Aguman Kapampangan UK 2019 Mrs Lynette Medina Maceda

The adjudicators Imee Pinto & Baby Sumang..on the far left Estella Gomez, AK UK Secretary.

FACE OF THE MONTH

Name: Caitlin Bulaon

Location: Barking, Essex

Age: 21

Job: International Project Coordinator/COO at World Connection Tours

Ambition in LifE:

I’ve always wanted to be financially free through business so that I can be more effective in building the Kingdom of God and in helping those that need it the most with no financial limits. At quite a young age, I made the decision to work on the family business with my dad, Pastor Edwin Bulaon, organising tours to the holy land so that people can gain a deeper understanding of who God is. I feel like, here, my purpose is truly being fulfilled, with the bonus of helping out my family.

Parents Information

Mum, Susan Bulaon - Pangasinan

Dad, Edwin Bulaon - Pampanga

Palawan among CNN's most beautiful islands list

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

The Philippine government, through the Department of Tourism (DOT), welcomed the continuous recognition of Palawan for its pristine beaches and clear water with CNN Travel recently citing the island's allure to foreigners.

“Our rehabilitation efforts to preserve the beauty of Palawan did not go unnoticed. We are thankful for this CNN citation of our tourist destinations,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said Thursday.

The island of Palawan, described as “a gorgeous haven of pale sand and clear water”, was listed by the CNN as

one of the 10 ‘World’s Most Beautiful Islands’.

Palawan, which was also featured in the popular Spanish series Money Heist for its postcard-ready landscape, is home to impressive limestone cave systems.

CNN’s Jen Rose Smith noted that Palawan’s “most remarkable hiding place might be in Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where an underground river slips through a maze of limestone caverns.”

Romulo-Puyat, for her part, lauded local government efforts in promoting sustainable tourism and practicing the carrying capacity of the country's longest subterranean river even before it was a norm.

The coastal province of Palawan hosts a multitude of tourist attractions in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron, and the emerging San Vicente, an identified tourism enterprise zone.

Joining Palawan in the CNN list are Milos, Greece; Bartolomé, Ecuador; Fregate, Seychelles; St. Lucia, Lesser Antilles; Jura, Scotland; Komodo Island, Indonesia; and Kaua’i, United States.

Last July, Palawan, along with Cebu and Boracay, were included in the 2019 Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards.

At the T+L list, Palawan ranked second on the 15 Best Islands in the World list. (PNA)

“

The coastal province of Palawan hosts a multitude of tourist attractions in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron, and the emerging San Vicente, an identified tourism enterprise zone.

Lourdes by Coach

5/6 days by Coach from £350 25 Oct 2019, 9 Apr 2020 (Easter)

Lourdes by Air

4 days from £450

13 Jan, 10 Feb, 10 Apr 2020

Pilgrimage

to GREECE

Thessaloniki & Athens

6 days by Air from £799

11 Oct - Fr. John Pham

21 Oct - Fr. Marcus Holden In

The HOLY LAND

8 days by Air from £1290

4 Oct, 2 Nov, 6 Nov, 7 Nov 2019

2 Mar, 22 June, 17 Aug 2020

Incl: Return flights, hotels on halfboard, escorted tour of Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Jericho etc

Tel: 0208 947 6369

Canonisation of Cardinal Newman

5 days by Air from £580

10 14 Oct 2019 / 5 days / by Air British Airways from Gatwick

Incl: Return flights, accommodation on B&B, tickets to the Canonisation

Barcelona & Montserrat

Visit Zaragoza & Valencia

6 days by Air from £799

Led by Fr. Nicholas Schofield

21 - 26 Oct School half term

Incl: Return flights, hotels on half board, guided tours & daily Mass

Egypt & Holy Land

10 days by Air from £1490

16 - 25 Sept 2020

Incl: Return flights, hotels on halfboard, escorted tours in Egypt, Jerusalem, Bethlehem & Nazareth, Jericho etc...

SEND US NEWS OF YOUR COMMUNITY EVENTS AND

FRIGGA FORECAST

RAT

Use this period to make some changes, but consider the long-term effects of those changes. Focus on the things that feel right rather than try to please everybody. The stars have aligned to give you loads of love and success.

OX

Career prospects are looking great. Just continue to give your best. This is the perfect time for singles to go out and take chances in the romance department. Don’t forget to use your feng shui charms to activate love luck.

TIGER

With Heaven’s Luck at your side this month, there will be positive winds blowing into your direction. Use this energy to be more than just an ordinary team player. Work harder and smarter and your efforts will be noticed by those who matter.

RABBIT

Forget about your comfort zone for now and do something you have never tried before. Welcome advice from people you look up to. Your leadership potential will be at an all-time high.

DRAGON

An unproductive and unmotivated team can be very frustrating. Keep pressing forward and do not lose sleep over work-related matters. It is important to take care of your health. Don’t lose sight of the end goal, tackle those problems, and remember that are still many good things ahead.

SNAKE

Even if you are crawling at a snail’s pace, the key is to keep moving forward. Maintaining healthy eating and sleeping habits will help you go through this trying month. Small threats can do much damage only if you let them.

HORSE

There could be issues related to family and professional relationships. Your personal safety may also pose some threats. Avoid risky sports and be more careful on the road. Carry feng shui cures to counter negative vibes and don’t panic.

SHEEP

When things make bad turns, take it easy and sit still. Instead, be thankful for your past blessings and try to do some charity work to counter possible misfortune. Cure the Southwest sector to protect your health.

MONKEY

Avoid spending much time in the Southwest area of your home and stay in another room with better energy. Use this period to take a break, preferably with your partner. This will help you sort things out and move forward positively.

ROOSTER

You might feel your vitality waning, with situations at the workplace seeming to test your will. Get assignments wrapped up before the year ends. Some physical harm could get to you, so be careful. Make sure to spend quality time with your loved ones.

DOG

Catch up on lost times, complete pending projects, and ensure you achieve real progress. Use your communication skills effectively and keep to a defined schedule. Try to relax at social gatherings to ease pressures at work or business.

BOAR

You may feel more confident and positive. There will be chances to visit new places, be entrusted with new tasks, or even be recommended for a pay increase. There will be busy times ahead with family and work circles.

Juan EU Konek debuts pilot episode on digital platforms

JUAN EU KONEK, a programme that aims to educate, inform, inspire, recognise, honour and entertain overseas Filipinos in Europe and beyond through the power of story-telling, has launched its brand-new season’s pilot episode at Romulo Café in London with the show’s team members, supporters, press and media representatives in attendance. The pilot episode is now available for everyone to view on their Facebook (@ juaneukonek) and YouTube (JuanEuKonek) platforms.

The pilot episode features three segments – you will see how Brexit is being received and perceived by Filipinos in “Brexit: Deal or No Deal” hosted by Rose Eclarinal; be inspired by the untold story of Hertsmere Deputy Mayor Cllr Cynthia Barker in “A Serendipitous Journey” hosted by Kiara Gregorio;

YOUR PICTURE

and discover what families have to do for loved ones to join them before Brexit takes effect in “Immigration 101: Family Reunification” hosted by Gene Alcantara.

Viewers can look forward to new episodes every last Saturday of the month featuring current news and events, inspiring stories of struggle and success, and immigration issues and advice.

Executive Producer Rose Eclarinal said “This is our team’s labour of love and our way of serving the Filipino community. Our kababayans are at the heart of our programme and it is our hope that by watching our episodes, they will all feel more connected to each other, connected to their roots, and at the same time connected to the foreign lands that they have adopted as their second homes. It is also a great way to show the world how amazing overseas Filipinos are!”

>> IN THE PHOTO

The Servite Filipino Community celebrates the annual Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila with a grand concelebrated mass officiated by Father Allan Satur with Father Andy Rivera and Father Tom Banayag of St. Augustine Church in Hammersmith. This was graced by the presence of no less than Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo and Consul General Senen and Mrs. Yen Mangalile of the Philippine Embassy. The Servite Church Choir led by Maestro Henry Tolentino ably supported by Gerard Chan and Geraldine Loo rendered songs and hymns which made the celebration even more meaningful. Guest Commentator was Peps Villanueva of Crystal Travel. (Not in the picture, Chit Afuang, the photographer)

PACITA ABAD ARTWORKS JOIN TATE MODERN COLLECTION F T

BY STACY DANIKA ALCANTARA

ATE MODERN, THE United Kingdom’s foremost modern and contemporary art museum, recently acquired three works by Ivatan artist Pacita Abad. Tate Modern has one of the most extensive and diverse collections of artwork from all over the world and is one of the world’s most important contemporary art galleries. European Mask (1990), Bacongo III (1986), and Bacongo IV (1986) joined the gallery’s collection this year with funds provided by Tate’s Asia Pacific Acquisitions Committee

“Pacita Abad’s works currently join a prestigious roster of artworks in Tate Modern,” said Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo. “This is truly an affirmation that Philippine art is an important part of the international artistic canon.”

According to the gallery, “Two of the embroidered tapestries in Tate’s collection are from a series entitled Bacongo, referring to the Bantu ethnic group in Central Africa. The third, European Mask, speaks to Abad’s reversal of the co-opting of so-called primitive art by Western artists within the history of modern art.”

Abad’s European Mask was among the artworks featured in the Metro Center Mural: Six Masks from Six Continents in Washington D.C. from 1990-1993. The same artwork was part of the artist’s solo exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design in Manila in 2018. The other two artworks in the series entitled Bacongo, refer to the Bantu ethnic group in Central Africa.

Abad is considered one of the most important contemporary artists in the Philippines. She is best known for her vibrant use of colours and for her extensive use of trapunto, a kind of quilting technique that lends a multidimensional effect on her artwork.

Abad travelled extensively in her lifetime and her artwork reflected the cultural traditions of the many place that resonated with her. Apart from the Philippines, she travelled and soaked in the diverse cultural influences of countries such as Bangladesh, Indonesia, Korea, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, and several countries across Africa.

Her travels opened her eyes to the various social and political realities around the world. As a response, she sought to harness the power of traditional and indigenous art forms to shed light on these issues.

“Abad’s aim in her work was to connect with the world through a vibrant formal language that integrated her interest in traditional art forms such as batik painting in Indonesia, ink-brush painting in Korea, tie-dye in Africa, and macramé in Papua New Guinea, all within a language of abstraction and figuration,” said writer Clara Kim in a write-up on Abad published by Tate Modern.

LONDON CALLING: ANDRES BARRIOQUINTO EXHIBITS ANEW IN UK

BY STACY DANIKA ALCANTARA

ILIPINO ARTIST

ANDRES Barrioquinto returns to London with a solo show at the START Art Fair in the Saatchi Gallery from 26-29 September. His exhibition, This is My Beautiful Title, consists of eight new works commissioned by One East Asia for the event. Barrioquinto returns three years after his sell-out one-man show presented at START by One East Asia, which established his reputation in London.

“Andres Barrioquinto’s works are wellknown in London and are much soughtafter by collectors in the UK,” said Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo. “He is one of the most celebrated Filipino artists in the UK because his works have a distinct international appeal.”

Barrioquinto is known for his surrealistic and dystopian imagery of beauty mixed with threat. According to One East Asia, his works force “…a sense of unease to creep through the viewer as the initial impact of rich colour, flawless surface and young, attractive human figures gives way to the disruptive overlay of violent motifs.”

About Andres Barrioquinto

Andres Barrioquinto was born in Manila in 1976. He spent his teen-age years in Hong Kong before returning to the Philippines in the late 1990s. He studied painting at the University of the Philippines before completing his Fine Arts painting degree at the University of Santo Tomas college of Fine Arts and Design in 2000.

Since 2001, Barrioquinto has more than 20 solo exhibitions across the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Switzerland, and the UK. In 1998, Barrioquinto placed first in the oil painting category of Metrobank Foundation’s 15gh Young Painter’s Annual National Painting Competition, which is one of the Philippines’ most prestigious awards in visual arts. IN 2003, he gained national recognition as one of the recipients of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Thirteen Artists award.

One East Asia previously exhibited his work in London as part of group shows curated for the annual Asian Art in London: In Search of Identity (2018), Coming of Age (2017), Peninsular Practices: New Faces of Realism in Contemporary Southeast Asian Art (2015), Southeast Asia and Diaspora (2014), and Squaring the Circle (2013).

Andres Barrioquinto

An Innocent Face Shrouded with Secrets, 2019 Oil on canvas, 183 cm x 152 cm

Pacita Abad European Mask, 1990 Acrylic paint, silkscreen, and thread on canvas

2607 mm x 1827 mm

Tate Modern

Photo by John P. Garrity

KILLER SUDOKU 04

KILLER SUDOKU 05

KILLER SUDOKU 06

HINTS:

Killer Sudoku 05 Killer Sudoku 06

LAUGH OUT OUD TODAY

Doctor: “I’m sorry but you suffer from a terminal illness and have only 10 to live.”

Patient: “What do you mean, 10? 10 what? Months? Weeks?!”

comes for a check-up and the doctor asks: “Well? Are you still coughing?”

***

Doctor: You’re obese.

Killer Sudoku 04 Easy Sudoku 06

Doctor: “Nine.”

***

My old aunts would come and tease me at weddings, “Well Sarah? Do you think you’ll be next?”

The patient replies: “No. I’m afraid to.” ***

Dentist: “This will hurt a little.”

Patient: “OK.”

Easy Sudoku 05 Easy Sudoku 04

We’ve settled this quickly once I’ve started doing the same to them at funerals.

***

A doctor accidentally prescribes his patient a laxative instead of a coughing syrup.

Three days later the patient

Dentist: “I’ve been having an affair with your wife for a while now.” ***

An eskimo brings his friend to his home for a visit. When they arrive, his friend asks, puzzled –“So where’s your igloo?”

The friend replies “Oh no, I must’ve left the iron on…”

Patient: For that I definitely want a second opinion.

Doctor: You’re quite ugly, too.

Two donkeys are standing at a roadside, one asks the other: So, shall we cross?

The other shakes his head: “No way, look at what happened to the zebra.” ***

Guest to the waiter: “Can you bring me what the lady at the next table is having?”

Waiter: “Sorry, sir, but I’m pretty sure she wants to eat it herself.”