Balikbayan Magazine - February / March 2014

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In Focus

MEDICAL TOURISM IN THE PHILIPPINES

What you need to know Analysis

The Cost of Healthcare HOW DOES THE PHILIPPINES COMPARE TO OTHER COUNTRIES?

Icons

DR. FE del MUNDO —————— The Artist

CARLYN NUYDA CALLOWAY —————— The Designer

DAVID TUPAZ —————— Real Estate

APPLEONE PROPERTIES

Escapes

REDISCOVERING DIVING IN NEGROS OCCIDENTAL Destinations

5 HOT SPOTS FOR A HEALTHY RECOVERY

FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014

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VOLUME 5 NUMBER I / february & march 2014

5 Hotels & Resorts Work-Life Grandeur at the Lima Park Hotel 8 Publisher’s Note Keeping a Journal

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ICONS

PAGE 20-31 / ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY: 5 MEDICAL TOURISM HOT SPOTS

PHOTO BY KRENIL MICLAT

Dr. Fe del Mundo The first woman accepted into Harvard Medical School

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Healthcare in the Philippines: Is It Right For You?

FESTIVALS The Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival in Puerto Galera

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WINE & DINE

The Anaheim White House

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DESIGN

Myths on Medical Tourism in the Philippines !%$!&

How does the Philippines compare to other Countries? Take a look at the costs of in-demand medical and cosmetic procedures in the USA, UK, Singapore, and Thailand.

DAVID TUPAZ

Making his mark from LA to LV

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Frequently Asked Questions Why should you choose the Philippines to carry out your medical procedure? )"#

Noteworthy Medical Breakthroughs by Filipinos

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ESCAPES Rediscovering Diving in Negros Occidental

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THE ARTIST

CARLYN NUYDA CALLOWAY On her journey into the world of ‘Par Affection’

at r u e nd OTEL a r eG K H f i L kAR r P o W IMA L the

he cold, crisp air of Malvar, Batangas, rivals that of neighbouring Tagaytay City’s, except it does not possess the sprawling urbanization of the latter. Its rural appeal, however, does not lack in the necessary comforts afforded by civilization. Proof of this is the industrial zone located in this quaint town, where security is tight and power and water supply are both uninterrupted. At the heart of this technology center is Lima Park Hotel, a business and leisure hotel that offers five-star service and luxury. Originally built in 1998 to cater to foreign locators and investors working in the industrial zone, Lima Park Hotel has now become Batangas’ pride in the realm of hospitality and tourism, serving not just corporate executives but people from all walks of life. And from a humble 60-room hotel, it has now grown to a full capacity of 120 rooms and counting. By the latter half of the year, it will have 15 additional rooms and many other amenities. Guests usually come to the hotel because of its strategic location, but what makes them come back is the world-class service provided by its friendly and highly trained staff. The Filipinos’ hospitality is evident in every person working in and for Lima Park Hotel. This warmth aptly complements the cool atmosphere blanketing the entire place and makes the whole experience nothing short of relaxing and, more importantly, memorable. Walking around the hotel’s vicinity will give guests the tranquil vibes one feels when sauntering in a park or exploring a tropical forest. The lush vegetation surrounding the venue emits a spa-like feel that can soothe any weary traveler, businessman or lover. Completing this gentle feat are the elating views of Mount Malarayat and Mount Makiling on a bright, sunny day. If this explosion of nature’s grandeur does not uplift one’s spirit, nothing might ever will. Or maybe Lima Park Hotel’s facilities, features and amenities will do the trick. As a starter, it has four room configurations that are “more than the usual,” namely, Standard, Superior, De Luxe, and Executive Suite. The first three rooms have an area of 29 square meters, which is already equivalent to a suite’s in other hotels (even those located in Metro Manila). The last arrangement, on the other hand, is 42 square meters. One suite room, however, is 36 square meters, with a

HOTELS & RESORTS

personal Jacuzzi, and is perfect for couples. All rooms have a bathtub in private toilet and bath, hot and cold shower, wide double beds, cable television, safety deposit boxes, in-room coffee and tea making facilities, a mini bar, and unlimited wireless Internet access. Of course, a complimentary breakfast is given to guests, plus newspapers. Some rooms also have a direct access to the swimming pool. The 2.2-hectare hotel also boasts of nine function or breakout rooms, each named after a town or city in Batangas, and two ballrooms. Each function room can accommodate 30 to 100 pax, depending on the configuration, while ballrooms can house at least 250 people to as much as 1,200. Social or corporate events organizers can choose from the variety of options provided by the hotel, which is difficult to match even in the capital region where there are a lot of five-star accommodations. The culinary scene should not be missed as well at the Lima Park Hotel. Guests can enjoy the diverse offering of local and international cuisines at the Asian Flavours Restaurant or at the La Terraza Italian Restaurant. For those in search of an alcohol fix, the Patio Bar opens up daily in the afternoon. Even if one is not the extroverted type, he or she can still enjoy hanging out in this place, enjoying the cool breeze or simply watching the movie being showed on the flat-screen television. Health buffs may want to try out the gym and fitness center or avail of the spa and massage services, while travelers can check out the lobby shop to bring a little something home as a souvenir. There is also a business center for career men and women. Soon, the Lima Park Hotel will have its own gazebo and an all-glass fully air-conditioned garden house, perfect for weddings, wedding proposals, debuts, or any of life’s milestones. A coffee shop with an al fresco area near the lobby and a Duty Free shop are both set to open soon. Finally, a team-building park is now in the works to live up to the hotel’s corporate and leisure distinctions. Imagination and dreams can only do so much, so live the experience that is the Lima Park Hotel. For inquiries and reservations, contact T+63.43.981.1555, M+63.917.504.2385, e-mail limaparkhotel_reservations@yahoo.com, or visit its website at www.limaparkhotel.com.

by steno a. padilla FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014

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Keeping a Journal

Balikbayan Magazine, The Maiden Issue, March 2009

was five years ago that we launched the maiden issue of Balikbayan magazine. The vision for Balikbayan magazine was to celebrate all that is true, good, and beautiful about the Philippines—and to share all of these to the many Filipinos who are scattered all over the globe. In fact, our maiden issue carried with it the theme—“Love of country is back in style.” Throughout the years of Balikbayan magazine, we’ve covered beautiful destinations, amazing food, exceptional personalities, and exciting events. It has been a joy to document the wealth of things, places, and people that our country has to offer. And it has been even more fulfilling to share the unconquerable Filipino spirit, that has remained steadfast throughout all the challenges that the country has faced. In the maiden issue’s publisher’s note, I’ve stated that I’ve come full circle—from a journey that began in my hometown of Binalonan, Pangasinan, to my second home in California, where my wife, Cora and I established the Asian Journal newspaper, and then back to Balikbayan magazine which takes us back to the Philippines, over and over again. Throughout it all, it was a love of the Philippines that has kept us going as faithful chroniclers of the Filipino story, wherever in the world it may be taking place. And though five years have gone by, I am only looking forward to more years to come. Thus, this publisher’s note and even this milestone issue of Balikbayan magazine, isn’t meant to be a retrospective. It is more on the lines of establishing a new perspective. Through its stories, interviews, and articles, Balikbayan magazine once again aims to provide a fresh perspective on the many things still to love about the Philippines. ROGER L. ORIEL PUBLISHER & CEO

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LOCAL INSIGHTS. INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE.

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An International Publication by the Asian Journal. www.BalikbayanMagazine.com For subscriptions and other inquiries email us at info@asianjournalinc.com I Like us on Facebook.com/BalikbayanMagazine Los Angeles. Orange County & the Inland Empire. San Francisco. Las Vegas. New York. New Jersey. Bonifacio Global City. FG

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THE WAY WE THRIVE

Healthcare in the Philippines: Is it Right for You? For decades, the Philippines has been the fond destination for the perfect tropical beach vacation but with a rapidly emerging high standard of health treatment and care and an initiative by the government, foreigners are now viewing the country as a place to have the surgery they cannot afford at home. Medical tour packages are now available which offer both travel and hospital service that takes care of everything from visas, airfares, accommodation, hospital costs for treatment and all transport. Medical services available range from cardiology, rheumatology, cataracts surgery, knee replacements and bone marrow transplants.

MYTH 1: Low cost means low quality. FACT: Not in the Philippines. Because of the low cost of living in the country compared to developed nations, the top medical facilities—visited by the Filipino elite and upper-class themselves —offer very affordable rates for expatriates and tourists. These hospitals offer state-of-art equipment that are at par with topnotch institutions in the US and Europe. Many of their doctors are internationally trained and have accumulated extensive experience in their medical specialties. You’ll certainly receive the highest level of healthcare— without the staggering bills. SOURCE: WWW.TOURISM.GOV.PH/PAGES/MYTHSONMEDICALTOURISM

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Medical tourism has seen growth in the Philippines. Much of this boom is because of the excellent medical and wellness procedures available in the country, offered at very competitive prices. Many international tourists and balikbayans choose to have their medical treatments done here, because of the lower costs and the variety of procedures available. Aside from the world-class facilities and experienced, competent healthcare professionals, the fluency in English of Filipinos is a big plus for patients. This eases the communication channels between patients and doctors, which is crucial in making sure that both are on the same page in achieving the goal of health and wellness. BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ AND STENO A. PADILLA

MYTH: Because it’s part of the tourism industry, medical tourism lacks credibility and shouldn’t be taken seriously. FACT: First of all, the emphasis of the phrase is more on the medical aspect. It’s really about getting high-quality cost-effective healthcare services overseas, rather than obtaining treatments when you happen to be on vacation. If you decide to travel to the Philippines to seek medical treatment, be assured that Filipino doctors and health professionals have your safety and well-being as their top concerns. When you’ve recovered and received a clean bill of health from your doctor, you can then explore different destinations in the Philippines.

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MYTH: The arrival of medical tourists in the Philippines will make access to healthcare difficult for local patients. FACT: On the contrary, the development of medical tourism will boost the healthcare industry in general, allowing easier access to healthcare for ordinary Filipinos. Medical tourism makes hospitals constantly improve their services and facilities, which local patients benefit from. Some hospitals geared for medical tourism allocate a percentage of their cases to charity as part of their corporate social responsibility program. Hence, healthcare in the Philippines gets a big boost from medical tourism.

MYTH: Medical tourism is new in the Philippines. FACT: For decades, people have been traveling to the Philippines to seek medical treatment, but only in recent years has the country been well-known as healthcare destination. This is because of the phenomenal growth of travelers visiting the country for medical and health-related reasons. It’s surely a growing industry, but the Philippines has long achieved medical breakthroughs and milestones (link to Medical Milestones and Achievements), making it one of Asia’s most advanced nations in the field of healthcare. Moreover, leading hospitals are accredited by the Joint Commission International ( JCI) or certified by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). With expert medical knowledge and the latest infrastructure in place, your health at the Philippines is in good hands. MYTH: There are better healthcare destinations in the world compared to the Philippines. FACT: Different places offer different things, and the Philippines is unlike any other. Aside from being highly skilled and fluent in English, Filipino doctors, nurses and other medical professionals are naturally warm, friendly and caring—traits you’ll have difficulty finding in other countries. Topnotch hospitals in the Philippines are at par with, if not betterequipped, than most hospitals in the US. You can get the same high-quality healthcare at a cost 50% to 80% lower compared to Europe. So it’s not a surprise that a growing number of medical travelers have been going to Philippines for safe, reliable and affordable healthcare.

SOURCE: WWW.TOURISM.GOV.PH/PAGES/MYTHSONMEDICALTOURISM

How does the Philippines compare to other countries?

To give you an idea of the affordable treatments available in the Philippines, we've compiled the costs of several in-demand medical and cosmetic procedures, and how they compare to the Philippine prices. PROCEDURE

USA

UK

SINGAPORE

THAILAND

PHILIPPINES

Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

$70,000 $133,000

$14,600$23,500

$16,500

$12,000

$11,500$17,500

Heart-valve Replacement

$75,000$140,000

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$13,000

$12,000

$14,000$21,000

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass

$35,000$52,000

$3,100$4,600

$20,000

$15,000

$2,000$3,500

Hip Replacement

$33,000$57,000

$12,600$24,900

$9,200

$12,000

$5,000$7,600

Knee Replacement

$30,000$53,000

$11,400$23,900

$11,000

$10,000

$5,200 $7,700

Prostate Surgery (Turp Procedure)

$10,000$16,000

$5,800$14,400

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------

$1,500$2,700

Liver Transplant

$290,000$310,000

------

------

------

$120,000$150,000

Kidney Transplant

$200,000$250,000

------

------

------

$23,000$25,000

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

$6,000$10,000

$8,200$8,900

$6,250

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$3,000$4,000

Face Lift (Rhytidectomy)

$10,000$16,000

$9,400$12,000

$4,650

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$3,500$4,500

Breast Augmentation (Mammoplasty)

$7,500$8,500

$7,000$8,400

$8,000

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$3,000$3,500

Breast Reduction

$8,000$10,000

$8,500$9,100

$8,000

------

$3,000$3,200-

Complete Liposuction (Lipoplasty)

$13,000$14,000

$4,100$4,700

$3,000

------

$3,000$4,000

Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

$5,500$6,500

$5,000$6,600

$2,375

------

$2,000$2,500

Cataract Surgery

$1,500$2,500

$2,200$5,900

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------

$800$900

Dental Implant

$3,500$5,500

$2,500$3,300

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

story BY STENO A. PADILLA

As economies slow down while inflation continues to rise, people have come up with ingenious ways to stretch their hard-earned money. The problem becomes doubly hard when you or someone in your family gets sick, and wherever you are in the world, the cost of medical treatment is not cheap. This is the primary reason why medical tourism came into existence. To know more about this growing trend, Balikbayan Magazine did a little bit of research to answer frequently asked questions about this concept and to explain why the Philippines is the perfect destination to have your treatment. 1. WHAT IS MEDICAL TOURISM OR MEDICAL TRAVEL? It is a concept or trend of traveling to a particular destination to avail of medical or health care services for a fraction of a cost. These services are offered by professional and highly trained health care practitioners who are working in some of the most technologically advanced facilities in the world. These travels may also include holiday amenities like hotel or resort accommodations. 2. WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE THE PHILIPPINES TO CARRY OUT MY MEDICAL PROCEDURES? Filipino doctors, nurses, and caregivers are highly trained and internationally recognized. But more than their skills, it is their warm and pleasant bedside manner, hospitality, and caring attitude that make them in demand all over the world. The cost of doing medical procedures in the country is a lot cheaper compared with the United States, United Kingdom, or other developed countries. 3. HOW GOOD ARE HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONERS IN THE PHILIPPINES? The Philippines’ health care professionals have rigorous and excellent education and training. Physicians complete four years of undergraduate studies, followed by four years of medical school, and a year of clinical internship before taking the licensure exam. This is followed by a three-or five-year post-graduate residency training for their clinical specialization. Most of them also have graduate medical training in the United States, Japan, Singapore, Australia, or in Europe.

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standards and quality of service remain at par with those in more developed nations. 8. WHAT DOCUMENTS DO I NEED WHEN SEEKING MEDICAL TREATMENT IN THE PHILIPPINES? The Tourism Department of the Philippines has listed the following items that you should have with you when availing of medical treatment in the country: R5 --*),. R5 #- 5* * ,-5(if you are planning to stay for more than 21 days) R5 # &5, ), R5 , - ,#*.#)(R5 (35 ) /' (. .#)(5, ! , #(!53)/,5' # &5, +/#, ' (.-

4. ARE THERE GOOD MEDICAL FACILITIES IN THE PHILIPPINES? Yes, and there are many. Medical centers in Metro Manila are ISO-compliant. They undergo periodic and regular accreditation from the Department of Health. Some of them are also accredited by the Joint Commission International. The parameters used to monitor these health care facilities include organizational management, entry to services, service delivery, management of service delivery, patient rights, and safe and appropriate environment among others. 5. IS LANGUAGE GOING TO BE A PROBLEM WHEN I TRAVEL TO THE PHILIPPINES? No. The Philippines is the third largest English-speaking nation in the world. Communicating with people—from cab drivers and waiters to doctors and nurses—should not be a burden. There are also many hospitals and health care facilities that cater to patients of different languages and cultural backgrounds. 6. IS IT SAFE TO GO TO THE PHILIPPINES? It has always been safe to live and travel in the Philippines, although travel advisories are sometimes issued in certain parts of the country, as what happens in other countries as well, as a precautionary measure. There are large foreign communities in major cities around the Philippines and in some rural areas as well. Filipinos are generally nice, friendly, peace-loving, helpful, and hospitable to almost a fault. 7. HOW CAN THE PHILIPPINES OFFER SUCH AFFORDABLE PRICES? This has something to do with the currency exchange rate in the country. The Philippine peso is very favorable to American, European, Australian and some other Asian currencies. These foreign currencies have more value or spending power when used in the Philippines. Also, medical salaries of nurses and other health care professionals in the country are much lower compared with their counterparts in the United States or Europe. But the

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9. I HAVE DECIDED TO HAVE MY MEDICAL PROCEDURE IN THE PHILIPPINES. HOW SHOULD I GO ABOUT IT? Here is a step-by-step guide provided by philippinemedicaltourism.info: R5 . ,'#( 5 3)/,5 *& (( 5 ' # &5 *,) /, 5 .",)/!"5 3)/,5 primary care doctor. R5 ( 5 %()1(65 " %5 ." 5 #( #0# / &5 ' # &5 * % ! -5 ." .5 are offered. R5 "))- 5." 5 **,)*,# . 5*,) /, 8 R5 )(. .5 ." 5 (. ,( .#)( &5 .# (.5 (. ,5 35 7' #&5 ),5 telephone. R5 (5 --) # . 5 1#&&5 !/# 5 3)/5 .",)/!"5 ." 5 **)#(.' (.5 procedure. Another way is to get in touch with the Philippine Medical Tourism, Inc., through its e-mail address (info@philmedtourism.com). For those residing in North America, you may call (310) 878.4877. Its personnel will immediately get in touch with you and provide a simple procedure for you to follow. 10. CAN I COME WITH A COMPANION WHEN TRAVELING TO THE PHILIPPINES FOR MEDICAL REASONS? Of course! In fact, it is highly encouraged that you go to the Philippines with someone, especially if you are planning to undergo surgery or any other extensive medical procedure. He or she can give you support and company. Moreover, your companion can handle the paperwork and act as liaison between you and the health care provider.

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story BY STENO A. PADILLA

dioms are not meant to be taken literally, but when you say you are on the road to recovery, it may not be too much of a burden if you take it in its literal sense. After all, if you are one of thousands of medical tourists who chose the Philippines as their “healing” destination, then might as well take advantage of the many beautiful places the country has to offer. In this issue, we are going to introduce five exciting medical tourism hot spots where you and your companion can explore while still in the healing process. There is the cool and calm Tagaytay, a city built on the rim of an active volcanic crater. There is nothing to worry as this is a perfectly safe place. The only thing that you should worry about here is your appetite. Tagaytay boasts of some of the best bulalo (a type of beef soup) and sweets in the country. Never forget the anything in excess is bad for your health. We do not want your condition to get any worse. Next is the island of Cebu in Central Philippines. This is a place where almost everything that you desire in a tropical paradise can be found. It has white sand beaches, a busting city, rich marine resources, mouth-watering cuisines, friendly people, and so much more. Cebu is the center of commerce in the said region, so access to transportation, Internet, banks, etc., should never be a problem. We also included the province of Batangas, which is located just south of Metro Manila. This is a destination for those who do not want to be far away from the country’s

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capital. It offers beaches that are not crowded and exciting scuba diving spots that are perfect for amateurs and professionals. It is also famous for many local delicacies and a rich culture that has been well-preserved by its people. In the National Capital Region, we have two venues where you can get not just the best and most affordable medical treatments, but also the best in shopping, dining, and leisure. There is Makati City, one of the Philippines’ central business districts. It is a friendly city that is home to malls, museums, and parks. You will never get bored in this part of the country, as it offers lots of venues and activities day in and day out. Some of the best restaurants in the metro can also be found here, and you do not have to worry about the cost. Makati may be one of the more expensive cities here, but compared with other major cities in the world, it is way, way cheaper. Finally, we have Bonifacio Global City. Here you can find St. Luke’s Medical Center, one of the world’s best and most beautiful hospitals. Just like Makati, it has malls, museums, parks, and restaurants. This place is designed to be a “walkable” city. That means it is best enjoyed on foot. Enjoy the art installations located all over the district as the wind brushes your face. Your recuperation will definitely be fun and fast when you are in this area. To learn more about these places, turn to and read the succeeding pages. If that is not enough, go on and hit the road to all of these medical tourism destinations.

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Batangas

A province south of Metro Manila has a long, lost secret that is slowly coming out of the closet. This progressive place not too far from the capital city has been known for its rich history, culture, and natural wonders, but other tourist destinations in the country seem to have taken the spotlight from this Tagalog region, but it is now regaining its rightful place in the Philippine map. Thanks to the efforts of its local government and the private sector. This province is none other than Batangas. People seeking rest while healing may want to visit the beaches in some of its towns. By driving for an average of two hours from Manila, you can already swim, enjoy, and relax in the shores of Matabungkay, Nasugbu, Calatagan, Lemery, Taal, Bauan, Lobo, or Laiya. They may not be as beautiful compared to those found in Central Philippines, but their distance from the capital makes it a good alternative. If your body can allow, why not go further by trying some of Batangas’ diving spots? See the sights hidden inside the deep, blue sea by going to Anilao. Whether you are an expert scuba diver or a beginner, Anilao can accommodate you and your companions for a reasonable price. Just think of the therapy that the rich marine life can do to your body and soul. There is nothing like getting close to the innate beauty that Mother Nature has nurtured for thousands of years. If the water scares you or if you simply do not want to get wet, then maybe a smooth climb in a mountain will suit you better. Walking already does wonders to the mind and to the body. If this is coupled by the lush greens and fresh air of the mountain, then your recuperation would be doubly fast. So why not try Mt. Maculot, Mt. Batulao, or Mt. Malarayat? Just be sure to know your limitations. If heavy physical activities are proscribed by your doctors, you can still have a good time in Batangas. Head to the Taal Lake and rent a boat to see that different activities surrounding the crater lake. Be mesmerized with the provincial life, which is simple yet fulfilling. And if you happen to go there in between the months of April and May, you might be in for an eye-popping display of Fire Trees, the Philippines’ answer to Japan’s cherry blossoms. Your stay in Batangas will not be complete without trying its famous products. Wear the Barong Tagalog, the Philippines’ national costume. Then there is the balisong or butterfly knife that you might want to check out. Just keep in mind that this will confiscated in the airport. Food is also a must-try here. Some of these foodstuff include panutsa (peanut brittle), Kapeng Barako (liberica coffee), tulingan (a type of small fish), lechon (roast pork), and sweets like macapuno, ube, and pastillas. There are more for the foodie here, so be adventurous. Batangas may have lost some competition with other tourist spots in the country, but it still has some of the best things that guest and travelers can enjoy, especially for those who are mending.

story BY STENO A. PADILLA FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014

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Bonifacio Global City They say that everything is walking distance...if you have the time. Well, that might have been the mantra of the architects, engineers, and urban planners who designed and built Bonifacio Global City. BGC is one of the few business centers in the country that are pedestrian-friendly. Almost any destination in this district can be reached by foot with relative ease. The sidewalks are wide, well-paved, and accentuated with tropical landscaping, thus making your sauntering from one point to another comfortable. Plus, the soft breeze flowing throughout the area provides a relaxing touch that also caresses the weary soul. This whole setup is perfect for anyone who is undergoing medication or treatment. What is even better here is that St. Luke’s, an internationally recognized medical center, is just around the corner. If you choose to have your treatment in this place, it will be trouble-free for you to reach the hospital and other indispensable locations, such as hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, parks, etc. Everything a patient needs is found in BGC. Hotels and condominiums, like F1, Shangri-La, Serendra, and Bellagio, abound in here, so choosing where to stay is the only hurdle one has to surpass to have a complete stay, and it is not even a major problem at all. From your chosen place, while resting or recuperating, you can go out and check the different public art stationed all over BGC. There is The Trees by Reynato Paz Contreras, which stands as a testament to Mother Nature’s strength and beauty; the Balanghai by Leo Gerardo Leonardo, which is a tribute to the Filipino community’s spirit of hope and cooperation; Juan Sajid de Leon Imao’s Kasaysayan Bawat Oras, a sundial representing the islands of the Philippines; and Ang /*, ')5 35 (7 /,5 #&& (/ 0 65 & , .#(!5 ." 5 1),%#(!5 & --5 " ,)]-5 struggle for freedom, among others. Three public parks can also be found within the center, namely, Track 30th, Terra 28th, and Turf BGC. If you are lucky, you might find yourself getting entertained by various street performers and musicians in one of these parks or while you shop and dine at Bonifacio High Street. For the budget-conscious, walk a bit more past High Street until you reach Market! Market!, a circular mall near the public terminal. If, however, these activities are not enough to excite your brain, then head out to Mind Museum, a world-class science museum for the young and young-at-heart. Its modern architecture is hard to miss, and the fact that it is a green building makes it even more interesting. Wait until you get inside to have your mind blown with its interactive exhibits. BGC is designed to be the “home of passionate minds,� but it is also perfect to be the home of medical tourists from all over the world.

story BY STENO A. PADILLA

FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014

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Cebu Cebu is an island in the middle of the Philippines that owns a complete package: a highly urbanized city, white sand beaches, majestic waterfalls, rich marine biodiversity, and friendly and hospitable people. If you are looking for a place to heal but will not bore you to death, then this island paradise is the perfect destination to take. There are daily flights from Manila and from other major cities in the country to Cebu, so going here should never be a problem. Accommodation is also easy since the province offers hotels, inns, and housing for any type of guest or traveler. If you want to relax in an uncrowded beach, soak in the sun, and leave footprints in the sand, then take your pick from these smaller islands surrounding the province: Mactan, Bantayan, Malapascua, and Camotes. If you are the adventurous type, then head out to Moalboal for some scuba diving and discover the treasures of the undersea or climb the Osmeña Peak, the highest point in the province at 1,015 meters above sea level. From this peak, you can also traverse the island to Kawasan Falls in Badian, which is a series of falls. Only two are open to the public. To experience Cebu’s wildlife, go to Olango Island to see the largest concentration of migratory birds found in the Philippines or swim in the beaches of Oslob to interact with whale sharks. Not to worry. These creatures are gentle and harmless. They only eat krill, plankton, small fish, and squid. The food in Cebu is not to be missed as well. If your treatment does not prohibit you from indulging in exquisite cuisine, then try the worldfamous lechon. CnT is one shop in the city, where you can easily find this sinful fare, or you can search for Zubuchon, where the lechon was labelled as the “best pig ever” by celebrated chef Anthony Bourdain. If pork is not your meat, you may want to taste the danggit, a type of dried fish that is usually fried and best dipped in spiced vinegar. After getting a bite, top it all off with a little sweetness. Found almost everywhere in the province is its most famous export product, dried mangoes. The Philippines is known for having the sweetest mangoes in the world, and this addictive goodness is well preserved in every piece of this delicacy. If this does not fill you enough, go to a nearby bakeshop and buy some otap, a local cookie that is covered with sugar. Whatever activity you take, be it traveling, beach bumming, eating, or sight-seeing, make sure to have everything in moderation. Too much of anything, even if it is that good, can be harmful to the body. The keyword is ‘control.’ You are in Cebu to recuperate after all.

story BY STENO A. PADILLA DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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Makati City If you happen to be seeking medical treatment at Makati Medical Center, then you probably know by now that you are in the country’s financial, commercial, and economic hub. Makati City’s cost of living is considerably higher compared to other cities in the Philippines, but compared to other major cities in the world, Makati is less expensive. This makes the place an ideal destination for medical tourism, considering the first-class expertise and equipment provided by hospitals and clinics located here, plus the numerous accommodations, restaurants, and shopping malls in the area. Makati City is known for its upscale shopping malls, like Greenbelt, Glorietta, and PowerPlant Mall, but it still remains budget-friendly with department stores, such as SM City and Landmark. Walking around these malls and splurging a bit may be of great help to the healing process, as long as you do not stress yourself too much and spend all of your hard-earned money. It is tempting to shop here knowing that prices are relatively cheaper compared to big cities in developed countries. If shopping is not your thing, there are other places that might speed up your recovery. Stroll in one of Makati’s parks and relax with the help of some greens in the middle of the city. Choose among the following open spaces, namely, Greenbelt Park, Ayala Triangle Park, Legaspi Park, and Salcedo Park. Sit down in a bench, listen to the birds or crickets, and imbibe nature’s healing properties. For the cultured visitor, or for those seeking an alternative to public places in Makati, try heading to any of the museums within the central /-#( --5 #-.,# .85 #-#.5." 5 3 & 5 /- /'65 / " (! )5 /- /'65 ( 5." 5 Filipinas Heritage Library in your free time to see artworks made by some of the country’s illustrious painters or old books that date back to the Spanish period. To complete the Makati experience, explore the landmarks in the district, particularly the Philippine Stock Exchange along Ayala Avenue. You may also want to see the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Cemetery of the Heroes), where Filipino soldiers, national artists and scientists, and former presidents are buried. There are also several public arts scattered all over Ayala Center, mostly depicting historical figures, such as Ninoy Aquino and Gabriela Silang. After exploring the nooks and crannies of Makati, treat yourself to good food in some of the best restaurants in the country. For those with a tight budget, try Jollibee, Mang Inasal, or Max’s, while those in the '# 7, (! 5 (5 .5 .5 #, & -65 # 5 , 65 # )65 #4/65 "#' , 65 . 85ĝ)- 5 who can splurge must taste the cuisines at Shang Palace, Old Manila, Basix, Sala, or UMU Japanese Restaurant. Of course, there are hundreds of restaurants in the city waiting to be discovered. If you still got the energy and time, do hang out and enjoy the night life at Greenbelt, Jupiter Street, Malugay Street, Makati Avenue, or Kalayaan among many others. You are at the heart of Metro Manila, so be sure to make the most of your stay while on the way to personal renewal.

story BY STENO A. PADILLA

FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014

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Tagaytay City There are places where the body and the soul can find balance and rejuvenate, like a beach with pristine water and fine sand or a lush mountain that is sometimes obscured by mist. For a tropical paradise like the Philippines, finding one to suit your taste is never difficult. A unique destination for people who are healing rests outside of Manila, which can be reached via land for an hour or two. It does not offer a beautiful beach, but it has a serene lake that glistens with every kiss of the sunlight. Neither does it have a mountain with thick forest, but the entire place is built atop an active volcano. Worry not, for staying at Tagaytay City is safe and rewarding. This city -. ( -5)(5." 5,#'5) 5 &5 )& ()]-5& ,! ,5 , . ,85ĝ 5& -- ,5)( 5")& -5." 5 famous Taal Lake, where a small cone sits in the middle, which many people mistake for the real and only crater. To say that the view of the lake (or crater) is breathtaking is an understatement. Just looking at the panorama already gives you a therapeutic treatment that helps in relieving stress, trauma, or any form of pressure. Nature has a way of healing itself, but not everybody knows that is also has the ability to heal the human body. Just think of the many outof-town trips or vacations that career men and women take at least once a year to be one with nature, find peace, and restore their health, so that they can go back to work revitalized. It is essentially what Tagaytay City offers. Because it is not too far from Manila, many people who work in the capital city find this place convenient, not to mention cool. Baguio City may be a lot colder compared to Tagaytay, but its distance from Manila makes it less attractive for city folks who simply do not have the luxury of time. Apart from the lake, the crater, and the low temperature, Tagaytay also offers many other destinations, which do not require guests or travelers to exert enormous energy. After all, you are here to heal and not to risk yourself to further injury. These destinations include the Picnic Grove, People’s Park, Sonya’s Garden, and the Transfiguration Chapel among others. For a bit of history, try hitting Mabini’s Shrine to get to know more about one of the country’s smartest men to help build the nation. Also check out the Puzzle Mansion, a Guinness Book of World Records holder for the most number of jigsaw puzzle collections made by one person. And if you are not hypertensive, try the bulalo soup in one of the many restaurants there that offer the mouth-watering local dish.

story BY STENO A. PADILLA

FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014

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NOTEWORTHY

MEDICAL BREAKTHROUGHS

1. EASING LOWER BACK PAIN PAIN The Cervical Inter Facet Distraction Decompression (CIFDR) is a first in the country and in the world. According to Dr. Jose Manuel Ignacio and Dr. Rafael Cruz of the Manila Doctor’s Hospital’s Orthopedic Department, back pain is eased and numbness is lessened through this procedure. Implants are inserted in between the joints of the cervical spine, and the operation takes only half an hour. 2. VACCINE AGAINST MALARIA Rhoel Dinglasan, an entomologist and biologist from the prestigious Johns Hopkins University developed a vaccine called ." 5 , (-'#--#)(5 &) %#(!5 #( 5B C51"# "5().5)(&35-"# & -5 people from malaria, but also prevents mosquitoes that carry it from spreading. The vaccine works within the mosquito itself through an antigen called AnAPN1 which causes humans to produce antibodies that prevent the transmission of malaria by mosquitoes. Thus, when mosquitoes bite a person that has been vaccinated, the mosquito itself will be prevented from spreading malaria.

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3. ANTI-CANCER SKIN CREAM A Filipino scientist by the name of Rolando De La Cruz has been credited for inventing an anti-cancer skin cream. The product, which is called DeBCC is made from cashew nuts and other local Philippine herbs. It earned De la Cruz two international gold medal awards—one from the Archimedes Invetor’s Show in Moscow, Russia, and the other from the International Inventor’s Forum in Nuremberg, Germany. He was also the World Invention Winner in the British Invention Show in London, in 2006. 4. CONTROLLING LEPROSY Dr. Jose Rodriguez is a well-known Filipino scientist and researcher who developed methods of controlling leprosy. His proposed control program was implemented in the Philippines, and throughout Asia. Dr. Rodriguez also wrote plenty of articles and reports on leprosy which have been published in medical journals internationally. In 1974, he was honored with the Damien Dutton Award, in recognition for his fight against leprosy.

story by LADY MAY MARTINEZ FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014

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DR. FE del MUNDO

The f irst woman accepted into Harvard Medical School

e del Mundo was born in Manila on November 27, 1911, the sixth of eight children. Their family home was located right across the Manila Cathedral. Tragically, three of Fe’s sibling died in infancy. An older sister passed away at the age of 11 because of appendicitis. Because of this sad event, the young Fe decided to pursue a career as a doctor, in order to prevent something similar from happening to other children. At the age of 15, Fe enrolled at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine. She decided that her specialization would be pediatrics. Because of her hard work and dedication, Fe graduated in 1933 as the valedictorian of her class. She was also the “Most Outstanding Scholar in Medicine,” as well as the third placer in the medical board exam. Then Philippine president, Manuel Quezon, offered Fe a full scholarship to pursue any field of study in medicine, in any school she wanted. She chose Harvard Medical School. During that time Harvard was not accepting women in their university. In fact, in 1847, the very first woman tried to apply to Harvard Medical School. Her name was Harriet Hunt, and she was rejected by the board. Things started turning around at the advent of the 20th century. The university started entertaining the idea of having female students. Debates on the matter happened during the 1940s, and it was actually during such debates that Fe del Mundo submitted her application. Harvard overlooked the fact that Fe was a woman, and they unwittingly accepted their first female student. When Fe arrived at the university in 1936, she found out that she had been assigned to an all-male dormitory. But the head of pediatrics could not deny her very strong record, and he saw no reason not to accept Fe on the sole basis of this. Thus, Fe del Mundo became the very first female student at the prestigious Harvard Medical School, and she was actually the only female enrolled at the university at that time. She completed her pediatric courses from Harvard in 1937, and went on to earn her Master’s Degree in Bacteriology at the Boston University in 1940. She also pursued further studies at the prominent Billings Hospital of the University of Chicago. When Fe del Mundo returned to the Philippines in 1941, she was determined to put her education to good use for the service of her

fellow Filipinos. She began working with the Red Cross and they set up a hospice inside an internment camp during the Japanese invasion of the country. When the Japanese closed down the hospice in 1943, Fe was asked to help establish a government hospital. Following her struggle in working with for a government hospital, she decided that she was going to put up her own private one. In order to have capital to fund the hospital, Fe decided to sell her house and nearly all that she owned. With this sacrifice, Fe was able to put up The Children’s Medical Center in Quezon City in 1957. Despite her accomplishments, Fe never stopped studying and learning. She would continue her research and worked even with the limited laboratory facilities that were available in the Philippines. When she needed analysis of lab samples, she would ship it all the way abroad. Her research led to many breakthroughs in the treatment of dengue, polio, and measles. Her work on dengue fever, in particular, contributed to greater knowledge about how this deadly disease affects children. Fe’s studies also catalyzed the invention of better incubators, and a device that helps relieve jaundice. Besides these, Fe wrote and published numerous reports in various medical journals. Aside from her researches, del Mundo also wrote a book called “Textbook of Pediatrics” which was the bible of many pediatric colleges in the Philippines for many years. Her dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed. Throughout her lifetime, Fe received many awards and recognitions. She was awarded the Elizabeth Blackwell Award for outstanding service to mankind in 1966. She also received the Ramon Magsaysay award for outstanding public service, plus the 15th International Congress on Pediatrics award as the most outstanding pediatrician and humanitarian in 1977. But Fe del Mundo would have done it all even without all the accolades. She lived for the rest of her life in the hospital that she had established, because she had originally sold her home to put it up. She would make the rounds to check on patients even if she had to do it in a wheelchair. She passed away at age 99 in her sleep, just a few month’s shy of her 100th birthday in 2011. But though the woman is gone, her legacy lives on—as the first female student in Harvard, as a pioneer in Philippine pediatrics, and as an incredible woman who devoted her life for the service of others.

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“There’s scuba diving near Bacolod?” That was my first question when I was invited to dive in Negros Occidental. The Philippines is already known as a world-class diving destination, with famous dive sites like Tubbataha Reef, Anilao, Puerto Galera, Coron, and Dauin found on many dive itineraries, but Negros Occidental is rarely mentioned alongside them. This problem had been bothering Bacolod native Marco Santos, who has been a dive guide and cruise director on liveaboards at some of the world’s best dive destinations. He had heard stories from older divers of giant mantas, huge tuna, and every kind of shark being seen in the waters of the region. “… in my younger days I always used to look at the Philippine diving map and wonder how come Negros Occidental was not on it, “he says in his blog, indepthPH.blogspot.com. Butin early 2011, he was tasked to find new dive destinations on the way from Dauin in Negros Oriental to Tubbataha for the liveaboard he was managing. Friends in the marine biology field led him to Danjugan Island, off the west coast of Negros. SAVING AN ISLAND Found three kilometers southwest off the coast of Negros Occidental, Danjugan is a verdant, 43-hectare island with exceptional marine and terrestrial biodiversity for its small size. Once off-limits to recreational activities, today, it’s one of the country’s best-managed marine sanctuaries, with 100% coral cover that rivals the Philippines’ best dive destinations. But it wasn’t always like this. “The early 1980s saw the decline of scuba diving due to the economic crisis brought upon by the government’s mismanagement of the sugar industry that most of the divers in Negros depended on, “Gerry Ledesma, president of the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PRRCFI), says on their website. There were also several typhoons, not to mention the introduction of destructive fishing methods and the encroachment of large commercial fishing vessels into the area. By 1990, the reefs had deteriorated considerably, with parts of the reef destroyed and large schools of fish gone. But in 1994, the PRRCFI was established to manage conservation on Danjugan Island. They purchased Danjugan Island with the help of two British organizations, the World Land Trust and Coral Cay Conservation, and that was the beginning of the island’s turnaround. Today, there are three marine protected areas (MPAs) established in the area, and the island has recovered significantly. Their efforts have also been expanded to include Southern Negros Occidental. Ledesma takes pride in Danjugan being a model for conservation best practices. They saved an island --- and now, they’re inviting others to explore it. And so, thanks to the efforts of the PRRCFI, Marco Santos’s first, exploratory dives around Danjugan proved to be unforgettable – and planted the seeds for his next venture: coming back to his hometown to help put Negros Occidental back on the Philippine diving map, with the help of his company, Philippine Bluewater Expeditions, Inc. #H

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DIVING DANJUGAN The home base and jump-off point for Philippine Bluewater Expeditions is in Punta Bulata White Beach Resort and Spa in Cauayan, 160km south of Bacolod City, a three-hour ride from the Bacolod - Silay Airport. It’s a secluded, well-appointed resort, just a short boat ride away from the dive sites of Danjugan and Sipalay. We had the chance to dive with them for a couple of days. Presently, the Sipalay area, which includes Danjugan, has forty-four dive sites, ten of them in Danjugan. It boasts a diversity of site types that Santos proudly proclaims is unmatched by any other Philippine destination. There are three wrecks, a few sunken islands, piers, critter dives, and numerous walls, all teeming with marine life, and there’s something for divers of all interests and skill levels. On the morning of our first dive, we boarded their large, purpose-built dive boat that can comfortably hold fifteen divers and two guides. We were unlucky to have unseasonal bad weather: strong winds and intermittent torrential rain made for a chilly boat ride on choppy seas. But once we dropped in the water for our first dive at Bonifacio Reef, off the southwest corner of Danjugan, it all melted away, as the warm blue water enveloped us and we were treated to 25-30metersof visibility. The reef is a mini pinnacle with pristine coral cover. It has huge staghorn corals as well as many other types of soft and hard corals, and lots and lots of fish, as well as nudibranchs. It’s a very busy reef and was an easy dive with virtually no current, even with the bad weather topside. Our next dive was at nearby Manta Reef. By the time we jumped off the boat, the wind was strong and the rain was pouring, but again, the moment we were submerged, we had warm waters and stunning visibility. This was a shallower dive for us, maxing out at around 20 meters. What I saw was some of the best-looking, most varied coral cover I’ve seen, that Santos says is comparable to the best he’s ever seen, like that of Apo Island in Negros Oriental. Santos says you can even spot the elusive Napoleon Wrasse here, as well as at many other dive sites in the area. I had heard that a wreck lies nearby in only 6 meters of water, and I wanted to see it for myself. So the next day, the dive boat took us to a site && 5 /&# (]-5 , %65ŀ( &5, -.#(!5*& 5) 5." 50 "# & 5., (-*),.5 I 5 /#maras that sank in 1980.Upon dropping into the shallow water, right there, as promised, was the shipwreck in several large pieces in the shallow water, encrusted in coral and bursting with color. Photographers will love this dive, with a relatively small area filled with interesting sights, a wide variety of fish, and its shallow depth that allows extended bottom time. The bad weather prevented us from getting many more dives in, but I’m looking forward to coming back to Sipalay to experience the dozens of other dive sites just waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for a different Philippine dive experience, put Negros Occidental in your itinerary. There’s a lot to see and you’ll be inspired by how tireless conservation is bringing the area back to its former glory. For more information on diving in Negros Occidental, visit puntabulata.com and bluewaterexpeditions.net. ##

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YOU’RE NEWLY ENGAGED AND BEYOND EXCITED; NOW WHAT? CONGRATULATIONS. LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE ELEGANT ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE RESTAURANT FOR YOUR SPECIAL WEDDING CEREMONY OR RECEPTION. ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE IS MORE THAN JUST A GREAT FINE DINING RESTAURANT. SITTING IN THE HEART OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM THIS EXQUISITE LANDMARK IS THE HIDDEN JEWEL OF ORANGE COUNTY AND PROVIDES THE PERFECT CENTERPIECE FOR A GARDEN WEDDING OR A ROMANTIC INTIMATE CEREMONY.

“It’s the personal touch that

matters,” said Sylvano Ibay,

the general manager at Anaheim White House. “It’s like having a wedding at home. It’s a magical restaurant and a historical landmark that

brings elegance and old world charm to any ceremony.”

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ABOUT THE VENUE The Anaheim White House restaurant was once nestled quietly among an enormous orange grove in the early 20th century and home to a beloved doctor and his family for more than 50 years. The home was converted to a fine dining restaurant in the 1980’s but this enchanting mansion, which was built in 1909, still stands with the same floor plan and many of the original windows and fixtures. The restaurant is registered as a historic national landmark.

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clockwise from top: cnn hero family picture / bruno, cnn hero / sylvano & katie wedding photo / the awh venue

CEREMONY The Anaheim White House stands alone as the perfect backdrop for a beautiful wedding ceremony. It represents a place of historic glamour and class. The restaurant’s quaint and enchanting elegance is evident as soon as you enter the doors. The West Wing Ballroom is a perfect venue for weddings ranging from 50 to 130 guests. The ballrooms elegant interior stuns with flowing golden drapes, sparkling crystal chandeliers and a beautifully crafted wood floor. The lush gold chiavari chairs highlight the interior decoration. The garden area is an ideal pairing for an at home feel and common place for cocktail hour and mingling among guests and family. For a smaller scale or intimate wedding, the Anaheim White House offers several private rooms that can accommodate two to 40 guests. MENU & PRICING Our special wedding menu packages have been tailored to represent the award winning fine dining cuisine personally approved by Chef Eduardo Meza. Each menu is specifically designed with an inclusive rate that includes a specialty menu, non-alcoholic beverages, tax, gratuity and champagne toast. Upgrades are also available to packages that offer wedding cake, flowers and DJ. The restaurant requires neither a room fee nor a minimum. There are also no time restrictions on the ballroom, our way of providing maximum service for your dream wedding timeline. All of us at the Anaheim White House look forward to creating lasting memories with you. For more information about packages and pricing please contact Katie Ibay at (714) 394-7375, (714) 772-1381 or email katie@anaheimwhitehouse.com.

ABOUT THE ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE The Anaheim White House located at 887 S. Anaheim Blvd. in Anaheim is a family owned restaurant owned and operated by general manager Sylvano Ibay, and his uncle, Chef Bruno Serato, The fine-dining establishment is most known for their incredible work in the local community. The Anaheim White House through Caterina’s Club, a non-profit organization, serves 1,000 homeless children in Orange County every night. Serato founded the non-profit in the mid-2000s. Ibay serves as vice president. More than 500,000 meals have been served to date. For his work in the community, Serato was chosen as a Top 10 CNN Hero in 2011 and received the Boys and Girls Clubs of America’s Presidential Award. To donate through mail, make the check payable to Caterina’s Club to be sent to 887 S. Anaheim Boulevard, Anaheim California 92805, Tel. (714) 408 5762 To donate to Caterina’s Club, visit www.thecaterinasclub.org.

By joseph pimentel / Photos by Anaheim White House. #D

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DAVID TUPAZ

Making his fashion mark from Los Angeles to Las Vegas

he first time I met David Tupaz he was chosen as the official fashion designer for Oscar nominated Fil-Am director Pia Clemente for Best Live Action Short Category for her film, “Our Time is Up.� Together with Philippine-based Rajo Laurel, David created Pia’s amazing gown for her red carpet debut in the awards show. Dressing up celebrities for the red carpet is nothing new to David. He has dressed up some of Hollywood’s A-listers like Natalie Cole, Martin Sheen, David Foster, Kristin Chenoweth, Mariel Hemingway, Lisa Rinna, Lucy Lui, Kris Kardashian and Bruce Jenner, William and Elizabeth Shatner, Allan and Tonya Thicke, Tracie and Scott Hamilton, Bai Ling, Billy Zane, Christine Baranski, Sofia Milos of “CSI Miami,� Mitzi Kapture of “Baywatch.� David was the go-to of most of the fashionistas in Los Angeles when it comes to couture clothes. 0# 651")5')0 5.)5 -5 ! -5#(5hfgf65*/.5/*5-")*5." , 65 )/( 5." 5

-5 ! -5 -"#)(5 -#!(5 )/( #&5 ( 5+/# %&35 -. &#-" 5"#'- & 5 -5." 5 fashion guru in the city that never sleeps. 5, (.&35 /!".5/*51#."5 0# 5 ( 5 -% 5"#'51"35 -5 ! -> 5, *&# 65^ 5&)0 5 )-5 (! & -<5 .5#-5-.#&&5'35")' .)1(85 /.5 -5 ! -5 was a move I took for professional reasons. I did my research on America’s !& '),)/-5 #.# -5 ( 5 )/( 5 -5 ! -5 -5." 5& -.5 ,)(.# ,85 .5#-5." 5& -.5!& 'orous city in America that has not been tapped yet by the fashion industry B -51 &&5 -5)." ,5#( /-.,# -5-)5.)5-* %C85 )/5( 0 ,5" , 5 ) 5 5 -5 ! -5 -#!( ,5#(5"#-.),385Äť 5, -)(>5Äť , 5#-5()5 -"#)(5#( /-.,35#(5 ! -5 .5 &&<5 5 )(.#(/ 65^ 0 (5# 5 -5 ! -5#-5%()1(5&#% 5 15 ),%5),5 )-5 (! & -65." 5 -"#)(5#( /-.,35 # (].5 0 &)*5#(5 ! -5/(.#&5()185 )5+/). 5 3),5 Carolyn Goodman, ‘It took David Tupaz, a Filipino, to start the fashion #( /-.,35 " , <]5 Äť , 5 , 5 -"#)(5 - "))&-5 " , 5 #(5 ! -5 /.5 ')-.5 ) 5 ." 5 graduates leave the city and pursue their careers somewhere else, like New York, of course. Why? Because there is no local industry that they can build their careers on. No one bothered to start the industry here until I came and pursued it.â€? )5 0# ]-5 , #.65" 5 )/( 5." 5 -5 ! -5 -"#)(5 -#!(5 )/( #&65 a non-profit organization that helps and mentors local designers in their creative growth.

^ .5 -. &#-" -5 5&) &5 -"#)(5*, - ( 5 ( 5' % -5 -5 ! -5().5$/-.5 5 gaming and entertainment city but also a city with creative resource and design,â€? he explained. “And why not? The future Calvin Klein can come from here knowing how glamorous the city is. I said, ‘The whole world is , *, - (. 5#(5 -5 ! -5 2 *.5 -5 ! -85Äť 5 #!! -.5 , ( -5#(5." 5*& ( .5 , 5 &&5)0 ,5 -5 ! -85 /.5." , 5#-5()."#(!5 ,)'5 -5 ! -85 ( 5." .5#-5 what I am doing here now.â€? Fortunately for David, he has the full support of the local government. “I have the support of the Mayor’s office as well as the Governor’s office of economic and business development,â€? he pointed out. “The initial step is to build a manufacturing support for the industry because it is the foundation of the industry (or any industry whatsoever.) Without manufacturing, there is no industry. “You can have a million designers in town but if there is no one who will manufacture their work then what? In addition, I am pursuing the \ 5#(5 ' ,# ]5 ( 5\ 5#(5 -5 ! -]5#(#.# .#0 85 )15." .5." 5*, -ent administration is promoting American made stuff and trying to bring back manufacturing in the country, it is simply perfect timing. One of our /./, 5*,)$ .-5#-5 -. &#-"#(!5 5 -5 ! -5 -"#)(5 %5$/-.5&#% 5#(5 15 York and Los Angeles. “The irony is that the biggest fashion trade shows and conventions are " & 5#(5 -5 ! -5.1# 5 53 ,85Äť , 5#-5()5, -)(5 -5 ! -5 (().5 5 5 fashion resource for America. The council invites our members. We have a program that allows invitee designers from out-of-state who wants to collaborate and team up.â€? )5")15 ) -5&#0#(!5#(5 -5 ! -5 )'* , 5.)5&#0#(!5#(5 )-5 (! & -> ^ .5#-5 " * ,5.)5&#0 5#(5 -5 ! -5." (5 )-5 (! & -6_5" 5- # 85^ /-.5." 5 .5." .5#(5 ! -5." , 5#-5()5-. . 5. 265)(&35 , &5. 25 ( 5." .5, &5 -. . 5 is at its lowest in the country make you live comfortably without sacrificing 5&).5 ( 5-.#&&5 &&)153)/5.)5- 0 85 -5 ! -5#-5 5hj7")/,5 #.3<5Äť 5)**),tunities are endless as there are other industries that have not tapped the

-5 ! -5 , ( 85Äť , 5 #-5 ,))'5 ),5 ( .1),%-5 ( 5 5 -")1-65 */ &#-"#(!65 education, health care, as well as other manufacturing opportunities not just fashion.â€? 0# 5 )( -- 5." .51" (5" 5 ' 5.)5 -5 ! -5 ( 5 # 5.)5')0 65 he was treated differently. “I felt like I was a big fish in a small pond,â€? he

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“...I treasure the Filipino value system. It is something that I will always respect and carry all my life. The Filipino is a unique race. We are the only people who can blend with any other culture and make it our own. We easily adapt and become part of any place in the world that we choose to live...� $H

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described. “I was the only established designer in the city. I was received with appreciation and the support was tremendous. I was treated like I was Christian Dior.� Recently, David was appointed Creative Director of Global News. He explained to us what it was all about. ^ &) &5 1-5 #-5 5 &) &5 . & 0#-#)(5 -")15 ." .5 #-5 *,) / 5 35 -# (5 5" 5 35 ,&5 !()5#(5 ))* , .#)(51#."5 -5 ! -5 & 0#-#)(5 ( 5 -*)(-), 5 35 #, .5 6_5" 5 #- &)- 85^ 51 -5#(0#. 5.)5 5." #,5 , .#0 5 director to further enhance the production design of the show as well as the overall image as it is a mainstream production. It is important to have this resource, as it will also help in the propagation for the fashion industry I am developing. Media is key. It is one of the marketing instruments that will help a lot. Being their creative director gives me a free hand on the development of the show as well as future shows I plan to set up. I am planning to produce a local Style channel eventually.� Last May, David had a very successful fashion show that was attended 35()5& --5." (5." 5 3),5) 5 -5 ! -65 ,)&3(5 )) ' (651")5! 0 5"#'5 a very good recommendation. “I presented my couture show at the prestigious Smith Center of the Performing Arts,� David narrated. “It is their equivalent of the Dorothy Chandler Pavillion in Los Angeles or the Lincoln Center in New York. Mayor Carolyn Goodman and her daughter Kara came as well as other key leaders and high society and media people in the city. It was the first time the Smith Center did anything with fashion. As I was welcomed and appreciated sharing my vision for the city when I started the Design Council, I felt that the only way I can pursue the fashion industry in a city that never had it was to legitimize my organization and get the support from the community leaders which I did. C “They were impressed with the vision I shared and the possibility of M creating an industry that not only enhances the city more in the creative - (- 5 /.5 &-)5 )()'# &&35 -5#.51#&&5" &*5 , . 5$) -5 ( 5*/.5 -5 ! -5 Y on the fashion map.� CM Soon, David found himself all over the newspapers and magazines in MY

-5 ! -5 -51 &&5 -5. & 0#-#)(5-")1-85 5-" , 65^ 51 -5)(5." 5 ,)(.5* ! 5 of the Review Journal’s Business segment (their version of the L.A. Times) CY ." (5 ! #(5 #(5Äť 5 -5 ! -5 /-#( --5 ' ! 4#( 65 , *),.#(!5 )(5 '35CMY 0#-#)(5 and my ideas for bringing the fashion industry to the city. I was interK 0# 1 5)(5 " (( &5gi5 5 1-65 -51 &&5 -5." 5 5-")15\ ),(#(!5 & ( ] 5 and Channel 5 Morning News! I think the fact that my idea was something new and something that people never talked about or thought it was possible opened doors for me.â€? David was also invited by the Council of Fashion Designers Association of America (CFDA) to one of their meetings held at CFDA President # ( 5 )(5 /,-. ( ,!]-5")' 85 5, && 65^ 5' .5 5&).5) 5* )*& 5." , 85 Mayor Bloomberg of New York spoke and I was impressed with what he said about fashion. He said, ‘Thank you for coming! I am here to let you all know that I support the New York fashion industry not just because it makes us all look good! But let me tell you in numbers. The New York fashion industry contributes 1.5 billion dollars to the New York economy annually! This is the kind of impact the fashion industry can do to any city in America that follows our example.’â€? Hearing that, it made David pursue his vision more. “Everyone is very supportive of the plan,â€? he revealed. “After establishing the council, I was ." 5Ĺ€,-.5." .5 # 5#.5#(5 -5 ! -85 **)-5 ' 5.)5.)1(5 -5." 35')0 5." #,5 (.#, 5" +/ ,. ,-5.)5 -5 ! -5 ,)'5 (5 , ( #- )85 )(35 -# "5' .51#."5 ." 5 & ,-5 )/.5 "#-5 , 0 &)*' (.5 *& (5 ),5 )1(.)1(5 -5 ! -85 5 mentioned creating a Fashion Incubator for the city. Upon hearing that, Mayor Goodman at the meeting said, ‘Fashion? If that is the case, you need .)5 )(( .51#."5 0# 5 /* 45 -5" 5-. ,. 5." 5 -5 ! -5 -#!(5 )/( #&8]5 What support do I need more? “I always believe that in anything we pursue or any ideas we develop, it has to be done as soon as possible because whoever gets to the finish line first gets the first endorsement! Whoever comes later will always be second best! That was my foot at the door! In return, Tony Hsieh’s Fashion Incubator called the ‘Stitch Factory’ invited me to be one of their speakers on fashion in their ‘downtown project’ speaker series (similar to TED

talks) last spring.â€? As for his future projects, David has an upcoming fashion show in New York and Portland, Oregon. He revealed, “I was invited to do New York Fashion Week this September and Portland Fashion Week in October. L.A. Fashion Week also invited me but it comes at the same dates as the Portland one. I did Seattle Fashion Week as well last year! The fashion industry is big but the people involved somehow know one another. I am surprised that some people in the industry have heard of me and seen my work. Fashion Group International Seattle is one of those big fashion organizations that invited me. Fashion Group International Los Angeles honored me as one of the top 40 designers in the West Coast in 2010 to participate in the event ‘Designers and their Muse Gala.’ I will be present#(!5 5")&# 35 )&& .#)(5(5 ! -5#(5 ' ,8_ -5 ),5"#-5 &# (. & 5" , 5#(5 -5 ! -65 0# 5- # 65^ ),5 5-"),.5.#' 5 5 " 0 5 (5#(5 ! -65 5" 0 5 (5 ),./( . 5 ()/!"5.)5' .5." 5 ,ĂŽ' 5 5& 5 ,ĂŽ' 5) 5 ! -5-) # .3<5 5."#(%5." 5\().),# .3]5) 51" .5 51 -5 )#(!5 ),5." 5 city made me an interesting person to meet. One of my good friends now and big supporter is the legendary beauty and style icon, Elaine Newton (Wayne Newton’s ex-wife for 20 years). Through her, I met Susan Molasky ." 5 )3 (( 5 ) 5 "#!"5 -) # .35 #(5 -5 ! -5 B&#% 5 &),# 5 ( , #&.5 C5 1")5 invited me to the biggest charity ball for the Adelson’s hospice gala at the Wynn. “I met Parvin Jacobs, the fabulous doctor who is also a high society figure in the city. I was invited for a private luncheon by Andrea Wynn (Steve Wynn’s new wife) at their private residence behind the Wynn. She wanted to meet me and ordered a dress she was wearing for an opening. Then I met Steve Wynn himself at his private office. He toured me and showed me his Picasso collection. I wanted to see the private villa Prince Harry used when he took his clothes off together with Camille Ruvo whose husband Larry owns the Southern Nevada Wine Company, who supplies every hotel and casino in the city with their alcohol, drinks etc. as well as the Ruvo brain center. I met Andre Agassi, Celine Dion who invited me to her show twice. Of course, there is also Mayor Carolyn Goodman whose husband, - ,5 )) ' (5 1 -5 ." 5 ),' ,5 3),5 ),5 gf5 3 ,-5 #(5 -5 ! -5 ( 5

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whom she succeeded in a landslide vote when she ran for office. It will take another issue just to talk about this!� We asked David how has the Philippines or his being a Filipino influence his career or outlook in life. He replied, “The Filipino design aesthetics is very much influenced by Europe. Growing up, everything we wear was custom made for us—all the way down to our handkerchiefs. The culture has always been the individual client more than producing volume numbers. The fact that everything in fashion is specially made just for you. That was my basis, giving me more attention to my client! I treasure the Filipino value system. It is something that I will always respect and carry all my life. The Filipino is a unique race. We are the only people who can blend with any other culture and make it our own. We easily adapt and become part of any place in the world that we choose to live. How do you view the fashion industry in the Philippines? As for how he views the fashion industry in the Philippines, David revealed, “the Philippine fashion industry is at a stage of discovering itself !� He explained, “The fact that we have no strong textile industry and most of our raw materials are all imported down to the zippers and buttons. It would succeed when we have all these components. The elements that need to be established that will bring Philippine fashion to the international level. But I believe that the Filipino designers are some of the most talented, creative artists in the world that amidst the scarcity of materials and supply while we here in the west have an abundance of. “The Filipino designers are heroic because they can make beautiful things out of almost nothing with their sense of innovation and ingenuity. There is definitely a future ahead. It just needs a lot of support from the leaders and business enterprises that will support and create a legitimate industry.� This seems to be another chapter in the exciting life of David Tupaz. So what would be the title of this chapter in his life, I asked David. “Success and Achievement—Making a Difference, Filipino Style!� he quickly replied. Aptly so.

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CARLYN NUYDA CALLOWAY On her journey into the world of ‘Par Affection’

arlyn Nuyda Calloway is an artist. She takes her craft seriously. She takes the time to know her client well and she gives 100% of her time, energy and passion into her project. The Filipino-American fashion designer behind Thumbelina Atelier, who is based in Sherman Oaks, California, is known for creating the wedding tiara of Julia Roberts when the latter got married to cameraman Daniel “Dannyâ€? Moder in 2002. “I’d like to think of all my brides and clients as celebrities of course, because they are the main attraction for that one special day,â€? Carlyn pointed out. “However, I’ve had the fortunate experience of creating for Julia Roberts, Paula Abdul, Cean Chaffin (award-winning film producer and wife of director David Fincher), Jennifer Love Hewitt for ‘The Client List’, New York businesswoman and philanthropist Loida Nicolas Lewis and daughter Leslie Lewis, model and actress Rachel Reynolds, daytime soap actress Jennifer Birmingham (wife of actor Will Yun Lee of ‘Die Another Day’ and ‘The Wolverine’), Alexis Phifer (fashion designer/Hollywood stylist), and Cassandra Grey (wife of Paramount head, Brad Grey), to name a few.â€? The charming fashion designer humbly described herself as a “dressmaker.â€? Carlyn explained, “I’d like to think of myself as a dressmaker more than anything else because to call myself a fashion designer would mean having the same stature as someone like Mr. Balenciaga or Madame Gres. I make dresses; it’s my craft, my passion, my work. So in that sense, I am a dressmaker, nothing more.â€? Carlyn disclosed that fashion chose her. “Going into fashion was not so much a choice that I made,â€? she admitted. “In a way, it chose me. Even as a young child, I always knew that somehow, a huge part of my life will revolve around the arts. So it was a process that started very early on. For me, it is a pride and a distinction as a devotee of art can claim toward those who have taught us the quality and the rigor that lead to it.â€? How she got herself involved in the fashion industry started when she was looking for her own wedding gown as she prepared to get married to 5*,) / ,5 ." (# &5 85 &&)1 385 " 5 )/& 5().5Ĺ€( 5^." 5* , .51 ding dress. I realized there was a hole in the market.â€? She and her mother, Rocio Nuyda, ultimately found themselves going to the Philippines to have her gown made. “I designed my own wedding gown and Renee Salud made it for me,â€? she disclosed. On her Thumbelina Atelier website, Carlyn explained her journey into the fashion world: “My work centers around the love for all things beautifully made. Through the years, I’ve evolved as an artist whose beginnings started with handmade bridal headpieces and accessories. Shortly after I wed my husband, I began a small collection of handmade tiaras in our little

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apartment, where a small walk-in closet became the dedicated space for my workshop/studio. I literally walked from one bridal shop to another, showing my collection of handmade treasures to every shop in Los Angeles. I remember feeling despair and hopelessness at times because I was not getting the ‘ooh and the aah’ reaction I was hoping to receive. “My husband, realizing my disappointment, recommended that I fly to New York and test the market there. That was where I was able to crack the glass ceiling a little when the Amsale Boutique placed their first order. This began my journey into the world of Par Affection. As the years passed, my business grew, I received great reviews from leading fashion magazines, had an opportunity to create a headpiece for a very famous actress which put me on the map even more, got featured in a coffee table book for brides, had two babies (who are not babies anymore) and when the time was right, moved into a small showroom offering custom couture wedding gowns and evening wear. “Our work mainly centers around custom gowns now, but our collection of one-of-a-kind headpieces still hold a special place in our showroom. Since then, we’ve moved to a bigger location nestled in the heart of Sherman Oaks, where we continue to our journey into the world of Par Affection.� Carlyn revealed her two big breaks. “The first break was having my first collection of headpieces carried at the Manhattan Bridal Salon of Amsale ,, 65 , 5 (!5 &)(5 .5 ,( 3-65 ( 5 )(#+/ 5 "/#&&# ,8 “The second break was when I was standing in line at a grocery store one day and saw Julia Roberts on the cover of People Magazine wearing my tiara for her secret wedding to Danny Moder. I was getting calls from Japan, London, Jamaica, Australia and various parts of the United States shortly after that.� Carlyn’s artistic influences began at home where she was raised in a very artistic family. She disclosed, “Having been raised in a highly artistic home had a huge influence on me. My father was a businessman but once he was home, he’d spend hours upon hours listening to all genres of music from jazz, ballads, big band to rock and roll. Our home was always filled with music at any given moment. My grandfather was a crooner and sounded just like Bing Crosby. His voice was beautiful and he was a fantastic dancer. “My mother was a homemaker and was ‘craftier’ than Martha Stewart. She was the consummate crafter and knew how to make anything. In her college days, she was a champion orator and declaimer. I think she would have been a successful stage/theater actor had she not become a housewife. My grandmother sang opera; her voice was like a lark’s, while my other grandmother on my father’s side was incredibly artistic as well. She introduced me to ballet under the tutelage of Mr. Tony Fabella where I trained

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“The second break was when I was standing in line at a grocery store one day and saw Julia Roberts on the cover of People Magazine wearing my tiara for her secret wedding to Danny Moder. I was getting calls from Japan, London, Jamaica, Australia and various parts of the United States shortly after that.â€? as his protĂŠgĂŠ for many years. My uncle, Justin ‘Tiny’ Nuyda is an incredible abstract painter. Looking at his art takes me to another world. It’s like stepping into a dream. All of my siblings are incredibly gifted as well.â€? As for the challenges she encountered in her journey into the fashion world, Carlyn admitted that they come in various forms. She explained, “Just like every artist who endeavors to master their craft, the challenges come in various forms. It could be the day-to-day challenges like perfecting the fit of a garment for a client, or coming up with a design for a custom gown for a new bride, and it could be as complex as finding inspiration everyday so that one can continue to create. “To be an artist means one is part of a unique tribe. Some members of our tribe find the need to hold on to their secrets for fear of the competition. On the contrary, I think it is one’s duty to pass on our knowledge and expertise. I learned this on the very first year upon opening my first brick and mortar shop several years ago when I was having dinner with Mr. Edgar Madamba during his visit to Los Angeles. I was afraid to ask him a technical question about draping because I felt it may be considered rude. During dinner, he elegantly asked me, ‘How did you come up with this deconstructed skirt?’ In my gut, I knew he knew the answer. After all, he is a seasoned and extremely skilled designer. “My gut told me he was asking me this question not because he really did not know the technique, but because he knew that I had some questions for him. At that very moment, Mr. Madamba taught me one of the most valuable lessons of all, humility. He taught me that the times of workshop trade secrets are no longer, because our trades have become too rare. Ours is a dying breed of artisans and so one must continue to create in order to inspire. Inspiration leads to emulation, and emulation is the source of vitality. The challenge for all of us is to ask ourselves that question every day, how can I inspire?â€? For Carlyn, every bride and client is a personal challenge. “She may never even know it, but I take it upon myself to be invested into the whole creative process because every woman is different,â€? she disclosed. “Their needs are different, their personalities and tastes, physical attributes and styles, lifestyle and interests, careers, families ---- they are all different. This makes each one special and unique.â€? Her two young daughters—Eloise, 10, and Faye, 7, have inherited Carlyn’s artistry and talents. She lovingly talked about them. “Eloise just turned 10 and has developed an enormous callus on her middle finger from years of drawing. She loves to draw and paint (all day if she had her way). She is an intuitive artist and draws from memory rather than looking at pictures or images. She recently created a collection of hand-sewn rag dolls fashioned into the likeness of fashion icons, including Coco Chanel, Audrey Hepburn, Jackie O., Grace Kelly, Princess Di and Michelle Obama. She makes them all by hand and has a nice clientele. Her favorite subjects to draw are horses and their various breeds and gaits. “Faye is almost 7 years old and is very tactile in her art form. She loves to make things out of unconventional materials like scraps of discarded paper, bits of remnant fabrics she manages to salvage at day’s end in my studio, loose beads, mismatched buttons, strips of ribbon and wire, things that no one would consider useful anymore --- Faye manages to make them beautiful. She loves to bring me flowers she has pressed and dried. I have a nice collection of them in an assigned area of my vanity table. I get

to see them every morning when I get ready for work.â€? When Carlyn attended the Golden Globes with her husband and mom in 2011, she met her idol, actress Tilda Swinton. She told us why Tilda is her muse. “Tilda Swinton to me is the epitome of grace and style!â€? she exclaimed. “Physically, she reminds me of a cross between Jeanne HĂŠbuterne (Modigliani’s wife), Claude Cahun (French artist and photographer) and Marchesa Luisa Casati (Italian heiress and patroness of the arts). They are all very beautiful, powerful and evocative women who have all left an indelible mark in history, and whose spirits I call upon every now and then to inspire me. “Tilda Swinton is also an incredible artist herself and her body of work is full of range. She is a master of re-invention. She is simply beautiful, flawless, transparent, mysterious, brilliant, bold but tempered, and hilarious, to boot. She is like a young lady in a Marie Laurencin painting, or a woman of distinction in a John Singer Sargent canvas, so feminine and lovely but can be as macabre as a threeeyed Marchesa by Man Ray. “I am besotted by her; she is my living muse. She is a living work of art. I was beyond ecstatic when I had a moment with her at the Golden Globes. It was a dream come true!â€? Carlyn confessed that she would really want to work with her in the future. “I would love to work with her in some capacity,â€? she gushed. “Oh my God. That would just be mind blowing! If that ever happened, I can definitely check that off my bucket list, which is a pretty short one.â€? As for her future projects, Carlyn revealed, “I am working on a very sweet little collection of RTW bridal gowns for a U.S. retailer (I can’t tell you who yet because we are undergoing a final edit) with a target launch date for the Fall of 2014. It focuses on a Bohemian Romantic archetype. Drawing inspiration from the past, this collection is reminiscent of days gone by with soft languid silhouettes in delicate fabrics like lace and gossamer tulle.â€? " 5 65^ (5hfgj65'351),%51#&&5' ( ,5#(.)5Ĺ€&'5 ( 5 5#(5." 5 , 5 of costume design. Fingers crossed, it will be a green light project.â€? Her advice to aspiring fashion designers? “Stay grounded,â€? she replied. “Plant those feet solid to the ground, for it is there where you will draw inspiration and your best work will come. Stay hungry, meaning even when you acquire prominence and recognition, go back to that moment when you were just hungry and passionate about your craft. Go with your gut and listen to your inner voice. Dare to be different and do not be afraid to go against the grain. “There will be many naysayers along the way, many who will criticize you and attack your integrity and your work. Keep moving no matter what (as Reginald Lewis once said). Do not let those who attempt to slow you down get in the way of your momentum. Art is subjective. You cannot and will not please every one. What is important here is staying true to yourself. Do it for the love of your craft, ‘Par Affection’ and not the notoriety. She continued, “Our trade requires us to understand the material, to tame the tools and techniques of yesterday and today, to acquire the ease of hand and gestures, to learn the rules of the profession and its professional ethics. Our craft teaches us concentration, the ability to listen, to have patience and respect for the object, concern for the details, the search for perfection and the need to deepen our knowledge more and always. “It is what we must pass on, like it was passed on to us.â€? PHOTO: CARLYN & DAUGHTER ELOISE

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MALASIMBO The experience at Malasimbo has been described as magical. Set on the foothills of Mt. Malasimbo in Puerto Galera (120 km south of Manila), the Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival combines music, art, and culture and sets it right at the heart of majestic nature. Malasimbo started in 2011, and it was founded by Hubert d’Aboville, his daughter Olivia d’Aboville, and Olivia’s boyfriend Miro Grgic. It started as a small affair, with about 1,500 people enjoying the art, the music, and the lush mountainside. It has since taken off, with around 6,000 people attending in 2013, and the musical lineup being headlined by the likes of Jimmy Cliff and Joss Stone. This year, Malasimbo is going to be held on February 27-March 3. Musicians on the roster include singer, songwriter and guitarist Jose Gonzalez, whose songs appear in the soundtrack of the film The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, soul-jazz fusion pioneers Roy Ayers and Lonnie Liston Smith, legendary UK vocalist Omar and the 2013 Grammy award winner, Robert Glasper Experiment. But even with such a stellar lineup, co-founder Miro Grgic, who is an Australian-Croation sound engineer says that he doesn’t want the music to be the main draw. “I don’t want the (concert) lineup to be why people come to the festival. I want the people to come to the festival because of the Malasimbo experience, which is not just the music, but the culture, the arts, and the environment,� he says. The arts scene at Malasimbo is quite something to behold as well. “So far we’ve had about 30 artists exhibiting at Malasimbo every year since 2011. And the family is actually growing,� says Filipino-French artist and designer Olivia d’Aboville, who is Malasimbo’s art director and curator. Art installations here include beautiful tree lights made from recycled materials, a twig sculpture of a giant man by artist Niccolo Jose, and an Ifugao-inspired Dap-ay—a ceremonial meeting place with a bonfire at its center. Another highlight of Malasimbo is how it showcases the indigenous culture of the Mangyan tribes of Mindoro. There is in fact, a life-sized (!3 (5 #&& ! 5 2"# #.5 )/( 5#(5." 5 -.#0 &5!,)/( -85^ 51 (.5." 5* )*& 5 and the Filipinos who have never seen a Mangyan hut, or house to understand how these people live,� says Huber d’Aboville. Heritage workshops are also included in the list of activities, and there are also performances from indigenous tribes from Mindanao. To further encourage local talents, the festivals Thursday and Monday line-up feature all-local bands. Tents will also be set up on the festival’s grounds to encourage communication and collaboration between local and international artists. And this is perhaps, what sets Malasimbo apart from the other music festivals around the world—there is a real sense of setting, and culture— the natural beauty of the environment, and the traditions of its people are not hidden, but in fact—highlighted. “We are inspired by the Philippines, and we are inspired by the culture,� says Grgic. story by LADY MAY MARTINEZ FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014

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&%)*+$)&,!-$)./! !"#$%&"'(#()*+(&*,-After a series of roadshows in Northern America, AppleOne Banawa Heights hits a record-high sales growth in all of its eight events in the US. Investors and buyers clamored for the mansionettes and villas with both unit types reflective of one of the world’s prominent landmarks -- the San Francisco Bay Area’s Pacific Heights, a row of Victorian-themed houses that is truly classic and timeless. AppleOne’s first marketing event in Northern California was held at the Marriott, Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, where the 200 capacity function room was packed with potential buyers and Cebuano guests. With an extraordinary turnout in its initial activity, AppleOne immediately decided to host additional roadshows in Las Vegas, Nevada and various locations in Southern California, with the culminating event held at the Sheraton Hotel in Cerritos, California.

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AppleOne Properties, Inc. (API) Executive Vice President for Operations Yvet Andalis, who heads all the marketing initiatives, said, “Our product is well-defined and very timely for the current market demands. It also is well-appreciated by Cebuano residents based in California who completely understand the concept of Private Cluster. Since the project is inspired by San Francisco Bay Area houses, it was easy for the buyers to relate to the merits of the project.” She further said, “Although we are very confident with our product, we are still amazed with the sales turnout in our various marketing activities. It only means that we are on the right track in our residential development. It was also very timely for us to have tapped the market based abroad due to the slow down of local sales brought about by the recent disasters that hit us.” The roadshows were organized in time for the US National Association of Realtors Conference and Expo at the Moscone Center held last November 8-11, 2013. This was participated by AppleOne Banawa Heights’ top brokers and US trip awardees from Leuterio Realty and Hezekiah Realty. Participants were able to take advantage of attending some of the seminars given by the National Association of Realtors. Aside from California, AppleOne Banawa Heights has also run successful roadshows and presentations in various locations worldwide including: Singapore, London and Dubai. All of these events generated millions of sales revenue, with AppleOne surpassing its sales goal in 2013. Leuterio Realty President Anthony Leuterio said, “It is so much easier to sell AppleOne as it has a unique concept. AppleOne Banawa Heights gives you a lot of perks that fulfill many California dreams of Cebuanos all over the world.” AppleOne Banawa Heights is a 2.8 hectare residential development on the hills of Banawa -- offering the first gated condominium subdivision featuring a private cluster concept. It is a project of AppleOne Properties Inc., a real estate development company with close to 20 years of experience in construction and development under various companies: Brickwall Construction & Development Corporation, Golden Bee International, Inc. and Sunsky Development Corporation. API is also the developer of AppleOne-Equicom Tower, located in Cebu Business Park, a premier financial district in the city.

For further details, contact Tel. (032) 260.3968, Cel. 0917.315.5913 or visit: www.appleonecebu.com. AppleOne Properties Inc. is located at the 16th floor, AppleOne-Equicom Tower, Mindanao Avenue corner Biliran Street, Cebu Business Park. FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014

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Insular Life Welcomes Lea Salonga as New Brand Ambassador eading Filipino life insurance company, Insular Life, recently welcomed multi-awarded international star, Ms. Lea Salonga, as its brand ambassador. Salonga, who earned critical acclaim with her leading role in the musical Ms. Saigon, has earned global respect for her body of work, both in music and in acting. She won the Olivier, Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics, and Theater World awards—all industry benchmarks— for playing the role of Kim. Her subsequent roles in London and Broadway productions of Les Miserables, Flower Drum Song, As the World Turns, and Allegiance also earned her critics’ nods. Salonga’s foray into the international entertainment scene allowed her to achieve a number of firsts. She is the first Asian actor to play the roles of Eponine and of Fantine in Les Miserables. She is first Philippine-based musician to be signed by an international record label, and to have a major album release and distribution in the United States. Consequently, her string of successes has consistently brought honor to her Filipino roots. Salonga’s partnership with Insular Life brings together two respected Filipino institutions. She is set to appear in the company’s tri-media advertising campaign, and select events in 2014 espousing Insular Life’s advocacy of preparing well today to create a secure future, thus “Magandang Araw ngayon, magandang buhay bukas.”

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Print. Online. Mobile.

Building Bridges for Filipinos Around the World.

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elf-storage units are believed to have begun in the 1970s in California. Migrant workers who toiled in the farm fields needed space to store their belongings during the time of harvest. Since then, self-storage units have become a regular fixture of modern American cities, where cramped spaces and dense population have made space a much sought-after commodity. And as Manila becomes more and more progressive, the need for extra space has also become more critical. Here is where Safehouse Storage comes in. Safehouse is a self-storage facility opened by the brothers Carlo and Marc Coronel in 2010, and they hope to bring that much-needed relief to cluttered homes and office spaces. They are actually the first self-storage facility in the Philippines which provides storage solutions for people who have excess furniture, office equipment, files, and even items they want to keep for posterity. But more than being just a storage facility, Safehouse also offers a broad range of other services. “We just don’t focus on storage but we also have other services like moving, packing, auction, records management, and insurance,� he says. Most of the customers of Safehouse are those who live in condominiums and townhouses who can’t afford to spare extra space. Several companies who have limited office space also patronize Safehouse, because it’s much less expensive to rent out their storage units, compared to renting additional office areas. Currently offering a total of 400 units in varying sizes, Carlo says that their smallest unit could accommodate up to eight Balikbayan boxes, while their largest is roughly the size of a small warehouse. Their facilities are located in Taguig and Quezon City, while a third

branch in Caloocan is on the way. Like top storage facilities in the United States, Safehouse boasts of security measures that ensure the safekeeping of your belongings. ^ 5" 0 5hjIm5 5 ' , -5#(5 &&5 --5*)#(.5 ( 5" &&1 3-5) 5 the facility. Along with the cameras, we have a 24/7 stationed security guard at the entrance of the building,� Carlo explains, “Apart from this, we don’t allow any unauthorized personnel to access the unit. This is a very strict policy that our staff has implemented from the beginning.� Regarding fire and other possible unforeseen events that could possibly damage the stored items, Safehouse is well-equipped and ready against such instances. They have fire sensors and sprinklers, and the building itself is insured for fire and other damages. “As for the items inside the unit, the client may opt to get insurance for it. This could be included in the client’s monthly storage bill,� Carlo says. Finally, moving in your prized possessions is an easy three-step process. First is an assessment of the items that are to be stored, which will allow Safehouse to give an estimate of the needed size of the storage unit, and its corresponding cost. The next step is the settlement of a month’s deposit, and an advance, with post-dated checks for the remaining balance. “The client can then move his items in the unit,� Carlo says. “They may opt to use our packing or moving services to make their experience hassle-free. “ So if your home or office is starting to feel cramped and cluttered, Safehouse storage is the solution for this big city’s demand for more space. For more details, please visit their website www.safehouse. com.ph.

FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014

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How To Get There

There are 45-minute flights from Manila to Naga City, the capital of Camarines Sur. Otherwise, get on the bus from Manila to Naga, which takes around 10 hours. From Naga, take the one hour shuttle ride to Sabang Port. From Sabang, there are boats that can ferry you to Caramoan, which take an hour and 45 minutes. he best thing about the group of islands called Caramoan, which lie off the coast of Naga City in Camarines Sur, is that you can have these islands all to yourself. Not just because it is relatively less popular than other beach destinations in the Philippines, but because the islands are a little bit challenging to get to. But if only people knew—the long trip is all worth it. From the Cubao bus terminal, it takes an 8-hour bus ride to get to Naga city. From Naga, there is another shuttle bus that takes an hour and a half to get to the pier. There, the boats leave every hour, for the two-hour journey to get to Caramoan itself. Accommodations are located in the Caramoan town proper. There are many low-key hostels, inns and homestays here that can be booked as part of your tour package. And unless you book at the exclusive resorts in Gota or Honongan Island, the main town will also serve as your jump-off point for the island hopping adventure that awaits. The key is to get the best tour guide—and there are several that can be recommended, just make sure that they are licensed by the local government. If you get a good one, then allow him to lead you to Caramoan’s best spots. Your guide ought to know the best time to swing by the shimmering white sand bars of Manlawi, so that you don’t

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have to share this piece of paradise with anyone else. He also should know secret spots such as Tinago Cove, which is only accessible when the tide is at a certain level. He should bring you to islands that are as varied as they come. There’s one that is made entirely of flat, round rocks. Another called Guinahoan, replicates the rolling hills of Batanes, and overlooks the beach. There are islands like Lahus, which is a strip of sand with limestone formations on both ends, and flanked by the sea on either side—making for two white beaches. There are also the various islands that have been used for one location shoot or another. Plus, there are islands where you can rock climb or explore a bat cave, if you are so inclined. It’s been said before that Caramoan is Luzon’s answer to the beautiful powdery sand of Boracay and the limestone cliffs of Palawan. It is actually many other things besides. So it’s really not surprising that the international versions of the reality series, Survivor (Israel, France, and most recently, U.S.A.), have chosen Caramoan as the setting of their show. And if these foreigners, who have come to appreciate our islands will endure the thousands of miles just to get to them, then we who call this country home, have no excuse.

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Across from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3

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