THE QUEEN ISSUE

the new reign

january - february THE QUEEN ISSUE blanc magazine premiere issue art . fashion . culture BEE URGELLO REDEFINES BEAUTY

january - february

fashion feed new direction - fashion trend report hair raising - PFW S/S 2012 Collections Beyond the blog designers spotlight- mark bumgarner

lifestyle -up in the air -green minded -the big apple -art of edifice -yo.u and cebu

art/culture -braille upon thy skin -photography by ryan reyes

editorials -coverstory -madame x -face to face -incubus -the hyphenate -bewildered

society -femina -style file

Josei Cuizon Editor-in-Chief

Mike Yapching Associate Editor nicky roa

Creative Director

ryan reyes Art Director matt aesthetic Photo Editor Vandale Dela Bajan Fashion Editor James Canete

Marketing & Promotions Manager

Yoanna James

Associate Manager

Aia Tupas

Editorial Assistant

Jaynard Basiga Lifestyle Editor Zakii

Assistant Lifestyle Editor

Rockell Dela Merced Senior Stylist ErinStylist Angel Little Bvck Beauty Editor Tatz Agustin

Assistant Image Stylist

Yvainne Sanchez

Assistant Image Stylist

Yuno Bastareche Photographer JayPhotographer Sanciangco Don Villegas

Arts and Culture

Dominique Roa News Editor rONI YU

Society Editor

I thought long and hard and after a few bottles of coke, the revival of BLANC Magazine was in the works right then and there.

November 2010, BLANC Magazine was nothing but an art compilation by a group of queer friends who wanted to be on the cover of a magazine but thought it was impossible - which is why we had to make one.

To share it publicly wasn’t part of the plan but what would you expect from an all-gay team? Humbly the reviews were great and the responds were overwhelming but BLANK (original name) wasn’t ready yet and after a few weeks, we had to pull the site out from the internet.

It takes great determination, pure passion and love for the art to invest your time and effort onto something that won’t even pay your bills.

Proudly, I have the best team who shares with me a common goal - to reach out and inspire, make a difference and keep it real.

Like what I always say, BLANC is not just a magazine - it is a movement, a revolution against a motionless society of hate, limitations & standards, against the youth of apathy & disorientation and against a self of uncertainty. A daydreamer’s never-ending thirst for fulfillment lies in the pages of BLANC. As we see everywhere, Cebuano’s’ artistic and experimental potentials need an acknowledgment and as a celebration of it, a compilation had to be done.

It was a dream having Bee Urgello grace the cover of our first issue. I can remember discussing with the team who best represents the premiere issue as well as the magazine itself and we only had a common name in mind, the fierce, bold and beautiful – Bee. The name and title would intimidate you at first, Queen Bee, but she was never a diva on set. Who would have thought someone so finesse and fine would be so game to do everything she was asked and you’ll never hear her demand for something or complain during the entire 8-hour shoot. A pleasure it was working with her.

I was very nervous in doing the magazine given we had zero funds and had to do everything, literally everything – from layouting the ads to doing fashion spreads. The support of some people in the fashion and art industry as well as the spirit the team has, humbly kept us moving. We’re grateful to have received a number of e-mails from talented individuals and for the Queen issue; Blanc has decided to feature the sublime works of photography geniuses, Ryan Reyes, Barbeth Lobitaña and Patty Zosa who did an exclusive shoot for the mag. We also invited Cebu’s most sought after female photographer Hannah Bacalla to do a shoot styled by the Blanc Team and mind you, she was very sick that day. The team also f lied to Manila to shoot top model Kit Barraquias in Mark Bumgarner pieces.

Outside photography and fashion and into the compass of pop culture, we celebrate the art of tattooing, green architecture, Manilas newest hub for artists, Edifice Studios.

Cebuano’s have taken the art and fashion world by storm and have been making quite a killing ever since then. Let’s continue to grow and experiment and through BLANC, let’s celebrate our talents and differences, together lets make visions happen. Viva!

Josei Ouano Cuizon editor in chief

ryann reyes \ photographer He is now a Graduate Student taking up Masters of Arts in Nursing Majoring in Medical-Surgical Nursing.

He is a budding photographer focusing on portraiture, editorial and fashion photography, among many other things. He’s immensely interested in Fashion, Photography, Music, Art and Travelling http://ryannreyes.tumblr.com/

patricia zosa \ photographer Patricia or “Patty” has always been into photography ever since she was little. She grew up with arts being one of Cebu’s most sought after ballerina. Taking photos , for her, is more than a passion. Her room full of her hat collection functions as her studio at the same time. http://www.onethirdpoundpatty.com/

chris jan tatlonghari \ callcenter agent Customer Service Representative at Convergys Philippines Studied Bachelor of Science in Nursing at University of San Carlos

Barbeth Lobitana \ photographer I took up Bachelor of Science in Interior Design in University of San Carlos. I am a newbie about photography, but years before, I always get inspired when i see photos by photographers who really knows art. And that inspired and motivated me in creating this page. I hope i can inspire people too as i share my insights about LIFE, LOVE and PASSION. http://barbethlobitana.blogspot.com/

HANNAH BACALLA \ photographer Hannah is a self-taught photographer based in the Philippines. A dreamer, a lover of all things dreamy.

Always in search of beauty and sombreness. Something that works its way under the skin and yet remains so beautiful. Believes that beautiful things can come from the dark. http://hannahbacalla.com/

ON THE COVER

bee urgello

Luxury intertwined with 50’s glamour was the theme for the shoot with Queen of Cebu 2011, Bee Urgello. It was a serious hike on a long muddy road to get to the location - an old private Spanish mansion. The cover girl was close-up ready thanks to the beauty department headed by Little Buck who took inspiration from 1950s movies like “Who’s That Girl?” and “Sunset Boulevard”. To complete Bee’s transformation from Queen to full-f ledged 50s drama actress slash Blanc cover girl, stylist Vandale Dela Bajan had to play with the styling making use of 2012’s frontrunner trends – pastels and prints. Mixing and layering were the key elements to come up with an unconventional look for Bee. For the clothes, we took inspiration from images gathered from the net – Flamingoes to a bunch of roses to an angel sculpture to Daphne Guinness and Anna Dello Russo even to an old vintage scarf.

Bee’s fashion spread was the first shoot the BLANC team did for the premiere issue.

BEHIND THE SCENES

RAP COUTURE There have been a string of Oscar de la Renta expansions of late, although the most unexpected comes in the launch of a partnership with rapper Dr. Dre on a pair of lavish designer headphones which double up as earmuffs.

iris apfler for mac

The moment you didn’t know you were waiting for is here! Iris Apfel, fashion icon, lover of jewelry and all things sparkly and fun, is coming out with her own line of makeup for MAC – and it’ll be in stores for you to snap up in just a few weeks.

hello 2012 The new Hello Kitty 2012 Year Of The Dragon Compact Mirror celebrates the New Year in style with a gold-toned mirror compact!

KANYE WEST / DONDA lovely bones After making his mark as the Prince of the heeless shoe and became Lady Gaga’s newest fashion favorite, Kermit Tesoro’s bone chilling shoe designs will finally walk a Man’s footsteps.

Kanye West hits up Twitter and announced the details of his new design label, which has been named after his late mother - Donda.

“I have started a new company and I’m so excited about the name.... it’s got the best name ever of all companies of all time!!! The name of the company is DONDA,” wrote the musician.

nicki’s nails The rap star interpreted her high-impact looks to work for your fingertips, with each color incorporating aspects of her high-voltage personality, lyrics, and album.

marni X h&m H & M is on a roll! After two successful collaborations with Lanvin and Verscace, the brand is now collaborating with another one of Fashions biggest brands Marni!

iphone 5 Rumors have now begun to surface that 2012 will see the release of an entirely new iPhone design. Sources say that the next generation model will be constructed from a rubber or plastic material that will probably border the front screen glass and could possibly be powered by hydrogen.

mila kunis/dior “Friends with Benefits” actress Mila Kunis is the latest celebrity to become the face of Dior, the French fashion label

lana del rey The indie songstress’ (who has just been signed to Next Model Management) newest album “Born to Die” which is set to be released this month slowly keeps unraveling itself - today with National Anthem. Love her or hate her, she’s happening!

Kunis, will be the model for the Miss Dior handbag collection in the brand’s Spring/Summer 2012 advertising campaign, appearing worldwide this month.

French fashion house Christian Dior, part of LVMH luxury goods group, is a staple in the high-end clothing and beauty industry.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/theodoreandfred

d w e n

s n o i t c e ir

azine g a M C N s! BLA s . n o i t c e w Dir se new look e N o t s eads u o pull of the l s d n e op tr ips t t t s f ’ o 2 o 1 r 0 p mer 2 foolm d u n S a / g s e n Spri n Not w o d s t jo

FRANKENSTYLE IF YOU THINK THE BOLD SHOULDER TREND’S GONE, THEN YOU THOUGHT WRONG! IT’S ALIVE! BIGGER, BROADER AND BOLDER!

Extremist: Channel Lady Gaga and Grace Jones by adding extra shoulder pads.

Neutral: Tune it up with heavy layering.

Low-key: For a strong yet subtle take,start on a well tailored blazer.

(Clockwise : Balenciaga, Maison Martin Margiela, Prada and Sportsmax)

leather be light SINCE WHEN WAS LEATHER M.I.A ON THE RUNWAYS? NEVER. THIS SEASON WAS NO EXCEPTION.

Extremist: Leather is the newest inthing to DIY. Go a head and do a jacket Neutral: A mini leather dress is one of Spring’s musthaves Low-key: You can never go wrong with denim and leather (Clockwise: Alexander Wang, Proenza Schouler, Celine and Maison Martin Margiela )

HEAVY METAL

THIS SEASON, IT’S YOUR TIME TO SHINE! TAKE YOUR PICK FROM BEADS AND SEQUINS GLOSS AND FABRIC SHEEN.

Extremist: Only a few can pull off an all-metallic suit.

Neutral: Pair a metallic bottom with a white or denim top or vise-versa.

Low-key: A cotton tee with metallic prints is best when you’re on the go.

(Clockwise : Gareth Pugh, Alexander McQueen, Balmain and Givenchy)

SWEET SURRENDER AFTER LAST SEASON’S DISPLAY OF BRIGHT AND LOUD COLORS, DESIGNERS DECIDED TO TURN DOWN THE VOLUME WITH SOFTER HUES.

Extremist: Go with volume and texture. Think Galliano Neutral: Put on a f lowy dainty pastel dress and a smile Low-key: Put some color in those jeans and t-shirt ensemble, grab a pastel blazer or cardigan (Clockwise : John Galliano, Chloe, Proenza Schouler and Valentino)

PRINTS WITH BENEFITS THIS SEASON IS ALL ABOUT UNLEASHING THE CHILD WITHIN! GET CREATIVE WHILE PLAYING WITH COLORFUL PRINTS!

Extremist: Layer all types of print as possible.

Neutral: Something textured paired with prints is a crowd-pleaser.

Low-key: Lazy days will tell you to put on a printed top and some rugged shorts.

(Clockwise : Burberry, D&G, Emilio Pucci and L:anvin)

WHITE’S UP?

GET YOUR CLEAN SLATES READY FOR THE NEW YEAR! FORGET ABOUT THE PAST YEAR AND START FRESH WITH THIS SEASON’S SQUEEKY CLEAN TREND.

Extremist: Go structural on white.

Structure black has become old and predictable.

Neutral: Pull-off a white lace dress and go bold on either the footwear, bag or lip color.

Low-key: When in doubt, wear an oversized white tee when you’re on the go.

(Clockwise : Celine, Theyskens Theory, Louis Vuitton and Givenchy)

HAIR RAISING GET TANGLED AND INTERTWINED WITH PHILIPPINE FASHION WEEK’s MOST HAIR RAISING SPRING/SUMMER 2012 COLLECTIONS. Illustrated by Nicky Roa

eric delos santos

julius tarog

jerome salaya-ang

arnold galang

regine dulay

noel crisostomo

louis claparols

nixon marquez

veejay floresca

xernan orticio

http://detailbydetails.tk http://www.facebook.com/detailbydetails

BEYOND THE BLOG When the word ‘Blogger’ comes to mind, any Fashion aficionado who’s gone down the Rabbit hole of cyber space would immediately think of the names Kryz Uy, Camille Co and Laureen Uy. If you haven’t heard of them, you must be living under a rock. These Stylish young ladies have grazed the pages of several magazines, appeared on TV, roamed the country’s streets in nothing but the‘Most Hyped’ looks and dominated every teenage girls’ (and some boys’) computer screens.

Lucky for us, these Busy Bees landed here in Cebu forWhat A Girl Wants’ - Back to Bloggers Tour where they sat down and spared a couple of minutes from their busy scheds for a quick chat with Art Director, Nicky Roa. BLANC Magazine Online gets up-close and personal beyond the blogs of today’s ‘It’ Girls as they share their secrets on how to make it in Wonderland a.k.a the Fashion Industry.

WORDS BY NICKY ROA

LAUREEN UY DESIGNER/ACTRESS/ENTREPRENEUR

WWW.BREAKMYSTYLE.COM

once Confidence is there, it’s gonna inspire you to do what you wanna do and it’s just gonna build up from then on. Let Confidence do it’s job!’

What is the impact of your transition to the world of Showbiz in your life in Fashion?

‘All my life, I’ve always been in fashion; I grew up in fashion. I started when I was sixteen. I interned for a fashion magazine. then created my own clothing line and started my blog. Right when I graduated college, I was lucky enough to get a role in the show (Binondo Girl). Showbiz is a completely different industry. Its a new area for me to tap on and I am so happy that I got to be a part of it because I get to learn new things.’

How was it like living with your siblings who are also two of the Fashion Industry’s big names : Liz and Vince Uy? ‘Growing up, I could say that it really helped me grow Fashionably. I recall, I would steal their magazines when I was little, I would see them dress each other up and that inspired me on how I dress nowadays. But If you notice, each one of has a different sense of Style.They moved out when I was still in High School. But even then, every Sunday i’d visit their condos, we would still bond and chat about each others work, shoots etc.’

What career would you like to pursue?

Would you like to remain in Fashion or focus on Showbiz?

‘I’d like to do both. I love acting now and fashion has always been my thing.

So I think it would be good to just mix both. I’ve learned that, while you’re still young, try to do everything you want in life.’

Fashion and Showbiz are two industries where Time is considered to be crucial. Being in both fields, how do you manage your time?

‘It’s a really hard thing to do. Back then, I’d rush deadlines, pull out clothes, attend photo shoots. book photographers, models, hair & make-up artists - everyone! Then, I’d return the pull outs, list credits and so on. But if you love what your doing, even if you lack sleep, you’ll know that it’s all worth it!’

Everyone knows that Showbiz and Fashion aren’t the easiest businesses to get into and actually succeed in. But you made it seem like a walk in the park. What is the secret into making it in both fields?

‘Once you know what you want, start. Cuz if you dont start, nothing will happen. Once you start, you need to have the Confidence. Cuz if you do something without confidence, its just gonna bring you down.

CAMILLE CO MODEL/DESIGNER/STYLIST

WWW.ITSCAMILLECO.COM

There’s no big or small event. No little or big exposure. Don’t do things half baked.

Always give a 100%.

As a Designer, Where do you find Inspiration and how do you translate it into your designs?

‘As a young designer, and also a blogger, I get exposed to a lot of things. I read a lot of magazines, research, trend forecast, fashion shows abroad and (since i’m also a Blogger) I also have an appreciation for street wear. It’s a mix of a lot of things really.

So I’d try to find something that I like then put my character in the designs.’

Being new at Blogging, How does it feel to receive such an overwhelming response from your readers?

‘I didnt expect it to get this type of response this quick. I didnt expect it at all. To get the top spot of Top Blogs in less than a year is something that i am thankful for.’ ‘Thing is, I really don’t know what i’m doing right’ she jokes.

You are one of the Most-Hyped girls in Fashion Community websites : Lookbook and Chictopia. How does one achieve such a number of ‘Hypes/Votes’ from a lot of other fashionable individuals around the world?

‘Lookbook is different from Chictopia. With Lookbook, you really have to look at the photo composition. I think people respond more to outdoor looks or Street Wear. As much as possible, provide clear photos. If you cant invest in a DSLR camera, you can still achieve it with a Digi Cam as long as it’s shot in daylight.

Also, think about what you are going to post and what will catch their attention.

Specifying details and accessories helps.’

What are the things that a Young Designer need to remember when they first enter the Fashion Industry?

‘In the beginning, the goal is not about pleasing other people. As much as possible, do it for yourself. When I started, I wanted to tell people: ‘Hey everyone, this is my talent and this is what I can do and it’s something that I love doing. Don’t take it Fashion too sriously. Yes, it’s a serious job, but you always remember to have fun. Show your own character. Do something different, something others haven’t done yet.’

You were part of Preview Magazine’s Top 10 Designers to Look Out for. What advice can you give to other young fashion designers out there who want to get noticed?

My career is doing so good now, partly because of Preview. They gave me such a huge honor by featuring me on their Top 10 Designers list. I met Vince Uy (Creative Director) through a school project that he saw. It was a dress that I made out of Broomsticks. Imagine if I hadn’t exerted all that effort since it’s just a school project. Just remember, you don’t know who’s watching. Who knows, it might be time for your Big Break!’

KRYZ UY

MODEL/STYLIST/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

WWW.KRYZUY.COM

‘Be yourself. Dont copy anyone else’s blog. Because they will always be better at it than you. So if you wanna succeed, Be Yourself!’

How has ‘What a Girl Wants’ evolved

through the years and what will we be looking forward to in the next five years?

The brand started in 2004. as one of the stalls at The Maze (Ayala Center, Cebu).

‘What A Girl Wants grew really fast’ she recalls. ‘After a while, Ayala offered us our very own spot, since they saw that we were doing really well. Also, Lim Ket Kai Mall in Cagayan de Oro also offered us. It’s so amazing for a small store to be offered a spot in a different city’.

‘In the future, were planning to put up 10 more branches. Who knows, we can make it into a Big Nation wide brand. It may even be transformed into the H&M of the Philippines.

There’s so much potential’.

What do you think about the growing Fashion community in the Philippines and the Accessibility of Fashion nowadays?

‘It’s really amazing. Especially now, with the presence of blogs. I met so many of my readers who come from all walks of life.

Lola (Grandmother), Teacher, Kids 3-4 years old - they read my blog! Its so amazing!

I guess it’s also one of the things that we are aiming for in What a Girl Wants : To provide Fast Fashion, Fashion that’s super affordable.

Being a successful young entrepreneur, What tips can you impart for other Young Entrepreneurs who might also be interested on doing business in Fashion?

‘If you want to do business in fashion you really have to love it. It entails a lot of work. its not what you think it is. It’s not all Glam. So you really have to love it and always believe in yourself.’

With so much on your plate, how do you manage to do everything that you need to do? How does a Kryz Uy manage her time?

‘Blog in the car. Plan oufits the night before and Eat fast! (laughs) When Laureen, Camille and I were in the car, we were all blogging’ she added.

DAVID GUISON PHOTOGRAPHER/GRAPHIC ARTIST

WWW.DAVIDGUISON.COM

‘‘I ‘ve had my share of detractors. but i never let them get to me. it only inspired me to do better!’’

Two years ago, the David Guison we know now, was a simpleton. A Multi-Media Arts student of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde who just wanted to post photos to his blog in case the files on his laptop got corrupted.

Not long after his first post, he started getting numerous admirations and commendations, and then the rest, they say, is history. He continued posting his looks on lookbook.nu and shared his everyday life on his Tumblr, davidguison.tumblr.com. He even got the attention of American brand, Forever21, to become the Philippine ambassador for their menswear, 21Men. At first, blogging was his secret life, “It’s not like I go out to party and do bad stuff, I’m blogging!” And now, he has been getting a lot of support from followers, fellow bloggers and from his family, mostly, his dad. He says that whenever his workload piles up, his mom would style him and his dad would drive them and go around the city looking for places to take pictures of him for his outfit posts for his blog. He candidly says that sometimes when he and his dad go shopping, they would end up buying the same pair of shoes.

David confesses that he’s “not really well” at juggling his schooling and blogging. Come finals week, he would “focus” and “concentrate” but finds himself writing a draft blog post at the end of the hour. He admits that it’s wrong but it also shows that bloggers, like him, are normal people and are vulnerable to mistakes.

After he graduates, David plans to create his own clothing and accessories line for men.

“I noticed, konti lang talaga yung option for guys in terms of clothes. I want to start a clothing line soon or after graduation.” In the future, he would also like to work as a graphic artist or an art director for a magazine.

Meeting David Guison for the very first time was overwhelming. But as the interview went, I saw the human side of David. The part where he’s a commoner, a student, a normal individual, beyond the outfit posts and the giveaways. He is a great inspiration for the youth. He doesn’t smoke, he doesn’t drink, he blogs.

Words by Mike Yapching

up in the air

Words by Jay Bisaga

Shelter is one of the basic must-haves that anyone should achieve. It symbolizes how well we do in our lives and in our mode of living. Say a concrete, three-storey house may mean to us that the owner is wealthy while a simple, madeof-wood house is possibly owned by a not-wellto-do family man. Over the years as civilization progresses, houses have also evolved. From makeshifts made of leaves and wood to towering mansions, homes indeed have become modernized through time to connive with latest trends.

A modern house can mean different things to different people – and the style is often interpreted differently by different cultures.

Amarga Architects, one of Cebu’s best architectural firms and is known for their modern and edgy structural design, has unveiled their new project called “The Floating House”. This fourstorey modern residence, located at the mountainous phase of Maria Luisa Homes, demonstrates and reveals a sufficient assembly of fresh, sleek lines. Designed principally for its function, the aesthetic elements jive perfectly as it displays the tenets of simplicity and elegance.

This house is planned conventionally, thus the spaces are arranged accordingly in relation to its function and purpose and another take on merging contained in interior and exterior places.

Although the planning may seem typical or traditional, the modern elements add up to the final aesthetic depth that completes this novel design.

The designer, Architect Zeus Czar Amarga, UAP, plumps to maximize the natural contour and terrain of the lot and aims to achieve an illusion of a f loating house at night. This exhibition will be established by the lengthened overhang on the first lower ground level, which will be visually raised by the up-lights from the succeeding lower levels.

Adhering to the principles of tropical design with a proper study, one of the main goal was to introduce more natural light on living areas and to the other parts of the house, window openings are dominantly placed on the east side of the building in order to bring in sufficient light with very minimal heat.

Keeping up with times, this house is patterned by the rudiments of modernism and at the same time, observing the principles of green architecture, sustainability, and therefore preserving nature at its best.

Amarga Architects, one of Cebu’s best architectural firms and is known for their modern and edgy structural design, has unveiled their new project called “The Floating House�.

The Interior Designer Caren Jade Go, a green advocate believes that in order to save mother earth you need to be wise and creative, ‘we may not be as high-tech as like Germany, but we are rich in all other resources that others do not have—we just have to use all these wisely and creatively” she quoted.

The hanging lamp was made back when she was still in 2nd year college when her professor asked them to design something by recycling— from trash. She got the idea from her watch, “ I got that from my watch, knowing that there are tiny mechanisms inside of it that is making it run---Gears, it made me think of the gears (from our cars, clocks and motorcycles) in the scrapyard where we can buy for a reasonable price.”

GREEN MINDED Words by Jay Basiga

The fast-paced changes of the world today greatly affect the plight of the environment as well as the humanity. Efforts have been done to keep the Earth a better place to live in amidst novel technologies, new-wave lifestyle and digitally-run generation.

Green design is one method used by designers and architects nowadays. It is a collection of varieties of ideas that are environmentally sensitive and friendly. The principles are simple: use materials wisely, conserve water and energy, save money in the long term and create surroundings that are safe and healthy. Simply put, green design follows the standards of good engineering coupled with environmental management awareness. Green design applies to almost every structure-even to homes. It is believed that this new concept leads to a cleaner and more efficient use of materials.

Being able to get everything from the scrapyard makes it cheap and affordable for people. The uneven sizes of the gears collected gives the lamp an interesting look, assisting it to create confidence on its own. Scraps of metal are the main materials in achieving this hanging lamp.

‘We may not be as high-tech as like Germany, but we are rich in all other resources that others do not have—we just have to use all these Wisely and Creatively’ Though we may think that we are only a single being on this planet, and it may seem like we won’t make much of a difference, don’t lose the strength to continue to advocate eco-design. This creation is not just an artwork, it is an epitome of what and how the future developments should be. By changing, we could help save Mother Earth.

the big apple Words by Niel Omolon

Cebu has been radically veering away from neoclassic architecture, and is taking a more modern look at it. One manifestation is this emergence of one of the much-awaited havens, The Apple One Tower, right in the heart of the Cebu Business district. A haven that boasts a 17-story building of both commercial and residential purposes, Apple One Tower is aimed to become a leadoff milepost in Cebu’s thriving financial and lifestyle district, where doing business means success without stress.

Head Architect for the Apple One Tower, ArchiGlobal Inc.’s Michael Torres, delineates the building’s design as “ Success without Stress”, which is evident on its meticulous selection of locale, choice of material in construction, interior space planning, and design and furniture pieces. The Apple One Tower interior is enveloped with a novel and classy ambiance as it upholds a “work refreshed” concept and “work at spa” feel.

The almost severe lobby is given life with an abundance of structural details, almost eliminating the need for any furnishing whatsoever. Being a commercial and residential space, conceptualized with a Zen minimalist feel in mind, the workspaces inspire creativity and productivity through the introduction of balanced design elements representing the earth, water, and air.

The interior design does away with the conventional look of a “condotel”, and ventured on carefully conceptualized usage of glass, wood, natural textures, and palettes that serve as a gateway between the outside world and the space.

All these place the busy working mind in harmony with the perception of nature that aims to provide a quiet atmosphere suffused with warmth and tranquillity, providing workers and tenants with the right ambiance for a happy day at work and at home.

CEBU AND YO.U Cebu is always known for quality, may it be with furnitures, performers, food etc. its something that makes Cebu “a cut above the rest”. Not to mention Cebu’s evolving party scenes. They always say that Cebuano party philes rather have a distinct taste when it comes to places to go to within the metro. Cebu’s eclectic taste for consistency,never stopped Cebuano entrepreneurs discovering fresher takes on that reinvention, making it more progressive for Cebu and the people in it. For the past 10 years Cebu’s party scene went on a good progression, heading to a bigger scale. From varieties like karaoke, lounge clubs and huge resto bars(topping the list). A proof that Cebuano’s only want the best and not the mediocre. One living proof of Cebu’s genuine taste is one of Cebu’s TOP 5 bars, its YO.U resto bar and lounge.

Since 2007 YO.U resto bar defined Cebu’s love for party,entertainment and taste. Business partners and real life couple Jojo Dizon and Lollipop Ouano Dizon defined the true meaning of party, Cebuano style. Since the year 2000, the couple ventured to a 30% percent share for YO Latino, however there contract ended after operating for more than five years. When a new space in mango avenue opened the couple then decided to open a new bar,YO.U resto bar.

Since the couple wanted to retain the name of YO Latino, aside from its easy to remember, it also made its mark on that type of business.

Words by Rockellangelo Dela Merced

.The couple thought of a more complex title and made it to a one-syllable name ,then there came YO.U having a dot in between O and U,since the owners wanted to envision a tag line from the name,meaning “your own utopia”. they wanted there clients to feel there own zen through YO.U. For almost five years now the bar has retained its wide array of clientele,may it be weekdays or weekends. The resto bar’s complete with the perfect ambiance yet very affordable price range, a live band without cover charge and what better way to showcase Cebuano’s supurb taste for food but to serve it in a way that we Cebuano’s are mostly familiar, name it and they got it. 4 of there best sellers include TENDERLOIN TIPS, a clash of really soft beef tenderloin and perfectly blanched veggies like broccoli and mushrooms, CHICKEN TERIYAKI – has a cool twist to it since its got bean sprouts underneath,making it the perfect partner that compliments its f lavorful chicken.

If your new years resolution is work hard and party harder, then there is no good place to be more religious with regards that resolution but YO.U resto bar. Enjoy the perks of having great music with there live bands on weekdays at 9:00 – 11:00 pm and 9:00-2:00am on weekends without cover charge.

Always remember there’s no other place for you than YO.U.

art of edifice

Words by Mike Yapching

‘‘W

e actually wanted to create an ecosystem of sorts for artists, where everybody can come together, share their work and ideas, and, maybe come up with something better, ” Raffy Tesoro, the main artist, explains when asked about Edifice Studios. The word edifice means a tall, imposing structure. A two-storey building that was once a factory for neon lights; owners Raffy Tesoro, Jay Tablante, Rob Yeung, Rufo Yao, and Tonipet Sarmiento, wanted to build a creative hub for artists. “A place where people can come in, be amazed, see beauty so they can create beauty,” Raffy says.

“We actually wanted to create an ecosystem of sorts for artists, where everybody can come together, share their work and ideas, and, maybe come up with something better, ” A place where artists can “make ideas happen,” Edifice Studios is a workable space from the inside and out. Other than two workable formal studios, every area is designed to be a shootable space. Inside, one can find textured walls, each corner having a different design from the other.

One wall had an abstract painting, the other wood panelled and one was blood red.

Every piece of furniture inside the studio is hand-made giving the entire space an air of creativity and energy making it an ideal location for creativity to meet functionality. Aside from shooting for print and videos, Edifice Studios is ideal for workshops, conferences, parties, and events, as well. They also have a Prop Shop where they sell clothing and furniture.

Blanc Magazine was lucky enough to have worked inside the complex and have met one of the owners, Raffy Tesoro. It felt great stepping inside one of the few places where artists come together, conceptualize, formulate ideas and have them realized. Edifice Studios is the perfect place to just “hang-out.” You can visit them at GEE Building, Warehouse 1, 2301 Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati.

n o p lle U

Brai

n i k S Thy

As an infamous line of Regina Spektor’s , “I was sitting there and trying to decipher, what was written in braille upon my skin.”

WORDS BY LWELYN DON VILLEGAS

There are lucid matters in this ever-changing world that are in time accepted yet considered bizarre, unnatural or beyond the usual. Things that we see everyday and which would still take time to be fully accepted – tattoos, piercings, or better yet ‘body modifications’.

Anyhow, having these subjects at hand fully accepted is not the main goal of this article. Then what is? If you are prepared for the consequences of having your first tattoo or if you are having second thoughts if you’re having it or not – you’re on the right page.

What should I ponder on first?

Tattoos are permanent. True that we have those laser procedures to get rid of the inked part, but you have to remember as well that it’d be replaced with scars or worse, embossed ones. To sum up, think it over if you could live your life with the tattoo or. . .living some time in your life with the tattoo and with scars after which.

Also, if you are not the type who does your decisions by yourself (e.g if you need some other people’s consent), it is highly suggested to ask them first. You don’t want to start a fight with your Mom about having that ink, or do you? I stand by the thought of having our own decisions and opinions, but we have to be considerate with what consequences we are to face after deciding. It’s what you call being responsible with what you decide on.

Every opinion is correct, but not all decisions are.

If you are having your tattoo just because you want to show off or you just want to prove something that you can have it, WAKE UP! It’s not a competition out there. It’s about loving the art and it’s about loving yourself. Love yourself for the tattoo, don’t love the tattoo because it makes you who you want to be.

FIND A PURPOSE. Importantly, if you have some sort of skin condition or any other condition that might complicate due to the tattoo, have yourself checked first. – self explanatory I suppose?

I am ready, where should I have it?

A tattoo’s location better be significant. I had my

first on the neck (because it hurts more) as a diversion from emotional stress. It’s a decision you yourself have to make. Don’t ask for other people’s opinion because you are the one having that tattoo FOREVER. However, if you are questioning about ‘which body parts would hurt the most’?, that I can help you with.

If you don’t want to hurt, find a place that is covered with layers of fats and muscles.

Remember, those parts that are not covered with big bulks of f lesh or muscle would hurt the most.

Let’s say the parts near the bones are of torture.

Find a location that would likely be a controllable muscle part – the biceps is the safest part to have if you don’t want the pain.

If you are the adventurous type and would love to experience an hour of uneasiness, find some parts that have soft spots, and a also your ticklish part would too. The part near the armpits are extremely painful (just a suggestion though). The stomach and the neck are for the extremists. The wrists are tolerable but would make you dizzy.

The back is a very good tattoo location but be sure that you have a very high tolerance with pain.

Do some research first with tattoo location, after all it’s about the art right? It’s not about how painful it would be.

I thought it over, what should I have?

Some people think a lot about what design to have – which is really good. Some people think a lot about what design to have but would turn out a fail – which is not so good.

Always remember the first principle – Tattoos are permanent; ergo, choose a classic design. Designs that would last for a lifetime and wouldn’t get outdated after civilization starts to shift. I strongly suggest not to have something like Angry Birds because it’s IN THE SCENE – it’s in, yes but it’s in FOR NOW.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY RYAN REYES

designer’s spotlight

TRADING PAINT WITH FASHIONS NEWEST IT GUY FORMULA RACER – DANIEL MARK BUMGARNER BY: JOSEI CUIZON

“the work could get tough and dirty, but all because we wanted something beautiful”

In 2012 Mark will be testing IndyLights and Star Mazda during February and March to decide which race series Mark will be best prepared to compete in throughout the US and Canada.

If Mark starts racing with the Star Mazda series, then possibly mid-season Mark will then switch over to Indy Lights for several races.

Mark will also have to learn to race on oval tracks in both series in 2012, as well as street and road courses.

He may also participate in some open wheel testing in China over the next 3 months just for seat time and additional experience.

Mark would also be racing go karts professionally within the US as his car racing schedule will allow time for, as go-karting is still one of the best methods for overall race training. Mark will also utilize race simulators in Indianapolis area to train for each race track before the actual race, simulator time will be very critical for learning the tracks and dealing with engineering data for the race car setups.

What do you do when you’re not designing?

I still am a professional racecar driver. Actually, designing is what I do when I am not racing nowadays. Just like racing, it started as a hobby. I used to race in go-karts and then it just accelerated to formula racing. Designing also started as just a hobby, and working with friends and I just became serious with it.

What is your educational and professional background and how do you feel it prepared you for a career in design?

I have been racing since i was 14 with my sister. I did not really pay much attention to school. It was all about racing but now I kinda want to go back to school to learn more about fashion. I started styling for fashion shows of a major denim brand and I thought “ i could do this!” and then I started making my own line.

What drew you to fashion and specifically to starting your own line? Have you always wanted to be a designer?

Growing up, it wasn’t really part of my dream, but somehow I know I have a certain inclination to good taste...to the finer things in life as others might say. I guess growing up with my 4 sisters helped me get that intuition in fashion. Also I think fashion people are very creative and full of life – that’s what I like about it. The work could get tough and dirty, but all because we wanted something beautiful.

Tell us about your first collection My first collection was inspired by racing: the cars, the race track, the women on the side. Its really very minimal, and wearable.my friends who knew me told me they saw “racing” in my collection.

Who have you dressed so far? And who’s you’re favorite? Do you have a muse?

I dressed up a couple of local celebrities - some on the glossies and some on TV. I don’t really have a muse although i think i should have one. Ill get back to u on that when I finally picked someone.

What would you say is your style of design like?

My aesthetics would always be about minimalism, and wearability. I always think my clothes should be worn by a modern woman who knows what she likes. Also, confidence is very important.

What is your design process like?

I am easily inspired by anything. i believe inspiration is everywhere. When I see something interesting like a car, or a movie or an animal, I tend to sketch from memory and a collection just grows from there - off course I still have a lot learn about it.

Would you consider going international/ work abroad?

I think when you’re a designer; international recognition is one of your goals. but Philippines will always be my base. Maybe other countries will provide me with so much inspiration and learnings but Philippines will always be my home base.

What are you currently working on?

Yes I am. I just finished shooting my 2nd collection and I am currently working on my third, which is hopefully going to be my launching collection.

Any other new projects you’re excited about?

I might be back in the tracks soon so it will entail really tough pitfit training. I will also try to get some shorts courses in London and maybe try to show my collections to some agencies there.

Do you plan on designing menswear soon?

I want to master women’s clothing first. but men’s tailoring is also part of my goals I’ve done a few men’s streetwear but I haven’t really shown them yet.

What advice would you give a fashion newbie or student, looking to become a designer?

Just follow your dreams and go crazy - never hold back, never settle.

Know more about Mark and his collections at: www.danielmarkbumgarner.com

hail to the

queen

E

ver since I was little, I’ve always wanted to be a Beauty Queen. Now, I’m living the life like one!” she confides when asked about her childhood dream. A refined beauty, she sat perfectly poised, waiting for her makeup to finish. The pretty face switched gear from pageant belle to a fierce high fashion model, simply beautiful.

“Beauty...well, it’s the whole package, not just in appearance” she says confidently when asked

about her definition of beauty. “It’s the personality and the inner beauty that matters.” She exclaims. Bee, after Queen has been busy with shoots and guestings but still remains gorgeous despite her busy schedule. Her beauty regimen is exceedingly simple. It’s all about the attitude, lots of water, eating healthy food and a right amount of sleep. With a right dose of everything, one would take note the basic wonder of her beauty.

Pageants like the Queen of Cebu, where Bee joined, is a form of celebration. It is a way for the reassigned sex to showcase their wit, confidence, beauty and brains. It’s about being happy and celebrating who you are and what you are. Bee is managed by Shandar Management, also the official footwear of the Queen of Cebu 2011 headed by shoe and accessory designer, Mark Tenchavez. Like Mark, the beauty Queen also shares the same fascination with high heeled wonders – she now owns 40 pairs and counting Born in a well-off family, she shares an unforgettable moment. “I was away from my family for two years…to get back, I must cut my hair. So I had to live by myself, I stayed with my friends and worked in a call center. ” A life on a silver platter she realized. ‘I rather be poor than to be rich, but not happy.”

This part was far from what people see Bee. In her dainty facade lies a strong and hardworking spirit. She took her own path but found her way home.

“I’m back with my family now and they have accepted me, finally.” she shares.

Perhaps Bee knows the fact that nothing lasts forever, not even her reign as Queen. She considers all thoughts especially career and lovelife. “I’ve been single for a year and I’m not looking for a lover right now… I’m happy with my life as a single woman. My heart needs to enjoy the moment.”To choose between career or lovelife?“It depends upon the situation,” she bashfully smiled. “Hmm… I don’t know. Right now, I don’t have a career but I plan to pursue a fashion course. So it’s just being a beauty queen and my duties as one. I’ll focus on that. But if someone would come along, if he is the right one I would know, if he would take me seriously,” she explains. Concluding her thoughts about two distinct ways, you would really know how an upbringing of a queen should be. “I don’t think you have to choose between the two, as long as you would be able to balance both, then that’s good. I don’t give it my all, when it comes to love I would leave something for myself, that way it wouldn’t hurt that much.”

Choosing a real guy is easy for Bee, but having the right one is hard.

“Hmm... Someone who looks manly, badboy image and would treat me like a lady… kanang maka-ebay (like a real woman)’’ she shares.

DRESS HANZ COQUILLA, TOP & ACCESSORIES STYLIST’S OWN

ever since I was little, I’ve always wanted to be a Beauty Queen.

Now, I’m living the life like one!”

BLAZER & TOP STYLIST’S OWN ACCESSORIES VANDALE DELA BAJAHAN

f FUR, TOP, SHORTS AND ACESSORIES STYLIST’S OWN

BLAZER, TOP AND ACCESSORIES STYLIST OWN

Seeing a real woman compared to her.

“Dosil, hmm... I have the thing down there. I don’t know if I can offer something more than a woman can but I can give that man my heart, my love.” She paused and proudly with a big smile she exclaims. “I’m prettier than most women”.

She outstood 20 ladies, an array of amazing beauties of wit and glamour.

But the lady representing Spain known as Princess Mariana Victoria de Burboun”, Bee later wore the crown as Queen of Cebu.

“I’m a first timer. It’s my first pageant, my first and my last actually. It’s the only pageant I wanted to join ragyud, ever since 2009 when I witnessed the first Queen. I didn’t know I would be crowned as one. Before they announced the top 10, I really thought that I would not be a part of it. I said to myself that I would really cry hard if I would not make it to the top 10. But I did! And being a part of the top 10 gave me the confidence to do well in the question and answer portion. I did good… I did great... and I won!” she shares.

She wore the crown with confidence and a joyous smile that motivated her even better. “It was the best feeling ever! It was like a dream that eventually came true. I really worked hard for it… and the best part of it was, it brought me and my family closer, they have been very supportive to me.” ”I’m a member of COLORS (Coalition for the Liberation of the Reassigned Sex), a group of transgender women here in Cebu, headed by a good friend of mine, Magdalena Robinson Ms. Brazil. And what we do is we help build and fight for a community that is free from discrimination and that would look upon us members of the LGBT as equals.”

PREVIOUS PAGE: DRESS HANZ COQUILLA ACCESORIES STYLIST OWN OPPOSITE PAGE: FUR VEST AND NECKLACE FOREVER21 TOP STYLIST’S OWN

MATT AESTHETIC PHOTOGRAPHER

YUNO BASTARECHE

ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER

VANDALE DELA BAJAN STYLIST

YOANNA JAMES

ROCKEL DELA MERCED ASSISTANT STYLIST

JOSEI OUANO CUIZON ART DIRECTOR

LITTLE BUCK MAQUILLAGE

DOMINIQUE ROA WRITER

MADAME

X PHOTOGRAPHED BY PATRICIA ZOSA STYLED BY VANDALE DELA BAJAN HAIR AND MAKE UP BY NICKY ROA

DRESS PACO SERAFICA ACCESSORIES STYLIST OWN

BLAZER NICKY ROA ONE PIECE PHOTOGRAPHER’S OWN

F A C E to F A C E HAIR AND MAKE UP BY TATZ AGUSTIN AND LITTLE BUCK

incubus PHOTOGRAPHED: BARBETH LOBITANA

Models: Vince Dacay, Mark Guerro and Peter Villena MUA: Issa Laya-og “wired� is what Issa Laya-og wanted it to be called..

Youths that is trapped with their false identity because of the cruel reality. But one should have the courage to unmask himself.

They are actually from a new group of aspiring models called Figura Group of Models?

- Reed Hundt*model doesn’t want to be named.. *no production team, Just me and the model This photo also talks about how we, the youth, are “boxed” of what society is expecting us to be and the struggles that we deal with because of these expectations.

“rebirth” Just like the newly borns, we fear a lot of things (decisions and concequences) because we sometimes feel unprotected and misunderstood. *model doesn’t want to be named.. *no production team, Just me and the model

Model: Deankie Latonio Assisted by: Guada Calledo Breaking free and unmasking thyself to the whole world.. With no feeling of fear, and f loating towards the goals that we wanted to achieve and the things that we LOVE to do. –true happiness

E T A N E H P Y THE H READY, SET, GO! BLANC MAGAZINE GOES TO MANILA TO SHOOT MODEL KIT BARRAQUIAS WITH

CLOTHES FROM FASHIONS NEWEST WONDERKID, RACERDESIGNER - DANIEL

MARK BUMGARNER AT EDIFICE STUDIOS.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MATT AESTHETIC HMUA: YVAINE SANCHEZ

STRUCTURAL BLAZER RJ SANTOS

BEWILDERED PHOTOGRAPHED BY: HANNAH BACALLA PRODUCED BY: ROCKEL ANGELO DELA MERCED STYLED BY: VANDALE DELA BAHAN ASSISTED BY: AIA TUPAS ART DIRECTOR: NICKY ROA MODEL IRX CANSECO HMUA: LITTLE BUCK

SHRUG JOSEI CUIZON NECKLACE JOEL ACCESSORIES EARRINGS FOREVER 21 CUTSUIT ORVILLE BIONGCOG DRESS NICKY ROA

SHRUG JOSEI CUIZON TOP PINKY MAGALONA SKIRT AIA TUPAS

SKIRT JOSEI CUIZON TOP VANDALE DELA BAJAN

NECKLACE NICKY ROA GOWN PINKY MAGALONA

DRESS PROCKEL DELA MERCED NECKLACE FOREVER 21

This is one of a kind experience you should not miss!

Island hopping has become one of the most popular recreations of today along with water-based adventures such as scuba diving, snorkeling, fish feeding, kayaking and the likes. Travel enthusiasts as well as menwho-love-adventure from all the corners of Cebu have included this activity on their what-to-do-before-I-die list, elevating this past-time as one of Cebu’s talks of the town. What makes this activity so remarkable is that you will get to experience first-hand the breath-taking scenery of some islands located in Cebu, in addition to the exciting f launt of sexiness with bikinis and board shorts, the pageantry of tanned carapace, and of course the parade of sunglasses.

If you are looking forward also to unwind after having a busy week with so much demands, bottomless deadlines and pressures from the office and school or even at home, this activity can give you relaxation and can help you refresh and debug from all the stress. Island hopping also has become an A-list when it comes to family and friends outing, as this can provide undeniable bonding moments with them, together with sumptuous food and eternal bliss brought about by chit-chats and laughter. So, if at this point you are already planning to experience this one-of-a-kind adventure, there is a new offering from Island Banca Cruise, a fresh idea you will surely love and an activity that you can enjoy the stunning view of Cebu and get relaxed—the Island Banca Cruise- Chill Out. Island Banca Cruise- Chill Out is a travel and adventure package where you can experience and be amazed of the bewildering landscape across the Mactan channel.

This is just a perfect escape away from the city because after the tour, you can laze around with the city lights and fall in love with the fascinating gleam of the stars. An added feature to this package is that you can chill out, watch the sunset while enjoying the music and drinks as you go to Liloan Lighthouse, Marcelo Fernan Bridge, Mactan-Mandaue Bridge and the Cebu City skyline.

WORDS BY: JAY BASIGA

ANONYMITY IS NOTANADNBOE PHTEAIORND. CHOOSE TO BE SEEN AT BLANC MAGAZINE

Fashion Editorials, Photographs, Artworks, Articles and other Creative Contributions, go ahead and send it to us at

blancmagazineonline@gmail.com www.blanc-mag.com

WORDS BY: CHRIS JAN TATLONGHARI

Human as we are, it has been a fact that we are societal, – but sometimes we get excessively casual with people ( trust me, I would know!) that it actually drives us to a point wherein we actually get too close , and it makes us end up having something a little bit more than the usual hanging-out phase, and leads you to engage in “you know what”.. Yes. Im talking about the SEX… the hot, exciting, invigorating, sex ( I know, I know, some of us can even get quite a handful.. haha) . And to add to that, some people actually do it with random partners nowadays, and if they’re lucky, they even go for ménage a trois or in groups. In which for them, adds up the drive and the rush of having their carnal dreams satisfied. But with the alarming increase of guys, girls (yes..its true!) And the gender benders actually having HIV, something has to be done. For as to having fun, it should be tantamount as to having good health as well. And like fighting for a war, someone has to mark the first step, lead the pack and blow the horn. But this time, it’s a redcolored whistle, and darling trust me, it ‘s about to be blown good. A fashion photographer-turned-gay health activist and the very founder of the “Red-Whistle Campaign” : NICCOLO COSME shares his idea and vision of a fun, fierce and fabulous STD/HIV-free Philippines, and hopefully, the whole world.

BLANC: Hey nic, we are very thankful to have you here in BLANC magazine. So can you tell us what the RED-WHISTLE project is all about, and when did it actually start?

NC: it has been my pleasure. Thank you for having me as well. Well I believe that The Red Whistle project actually started just last May of the year 2011. It is one of the the campaigns and projects brought about here originally in the country related to HIV information, HIV prevention and Anti-HIV discrimination. It embodies a vision wherein we would like to see a community with less HIVrelated deaths and discrimination by information dissemination towards the youth of today, especially that the Philippines is one of the major countries in the world that has increased number of people being diagnosed of the said disease. The idea of the campaign is to let the people know the importance of engaging in a monogamous and safe sex, how to eradicate the social stigma HIV has been giving people for decades now, and the information needed for people to understand what HIV and its effects towards our body.

BLANC: So why choose a Red Whistle being the trademark of the whole campaign?

NC: it goes with a story kasi, there was this one time I was hanging out with a friend and we were shopping, tapos upon that talk, I discovered that a mutual friend of ours actually died because of an HIV-related sickness, tapos they were trying to support the family and friends of that mutual friend by wearing a whistle, and right there and then I felt moved, and aside from that, a whistle, as an object, is used to catch people’s attention diba? So it actually goes along with the purpose of having the people’s attention kasi they will really be very curious as to the wearing

of that specific object as an accessory.

From then you can share the insight and the mission of the campaign. And lastly, being a gay man myself we need to be aware socially as to what has been happening to our country, especially with the elevating number of Filipino men and woman who are getting the disease already. And we are very happy nga eh that amidst all the efforts, our friends from government groups and show business are also in the same phase in supporting the said project. It was very nice to actually see that despite of their very busy schedules, they actually prioritize the mission of the campaign for our fellow Filipino men as well.

BLANC: and so far, has it achieved good results?

NC: So far so good naman, we have launched this campaign in the manila area already, and in cebu for the Visayas region, and recently, sa Davao for the Mindanao area. We have been incorporating this campaign as well with other events like parties and such to actually have the same benefit of having the people engaged with the information regarding the campaign as well. Because we are also targeting the youth, with the fact that it is the age-range that has the highest levels of being HIV positive.

BLANC: What has been the greatest challenge upon actually starting the campaign?

NC: Well first, is the budget. We have been getting sponsorships from different companies like Star World , Channel V, LEVIS and many more. We have also been asking the help of UN AIDS, and all other government health-related agencies to actually help us in the campaign. And quite frankly the budget is still very needed for us to have a cover a wider span of population to inform them about the subject matter of the campaign. Pero we are still in the starting years pa naman, so it’s kind of

expected already, but we are still doing a very good job with what we have as of the moment, although we still need more support from anyone who would actually want to be a part of the whole information drive. Kasi we would also want this campaign to head out as one of the biggest National Response against HIV/AIDS in the localities, because so far im not sure if we have many campaigns for the said objective.

Second is the information itself, which might be very sensitive to the Filipino family, wherein we were taught to be very conservative, but with this naman kasi I know that as a country we need to think and be mature in handling situations like these, therefore information would still be the key in achieving the whole perspective of the project.

BLANC: Any message for our dear BLANC magazine readers?

NC: Always, always remember to engage in a monogamous relationship. And commit in having safe sex policy for you and your partner.

Have your self tested if you have been very active sexually to have it diagnosed in advanced, or abstain from having it other than your partner, because it will always be best to have something prevented than to find the solution or the cure.

We would like to emphasize the anti-discrimination project for those who are actually diagnosed with HIV as well. Always remember, they are still human beings too and they need to belong. Acceptance is always the key to happiness. And lastly, please continue supporting the project drive. It is never late to care.

For more information or support , you can go and visit the facebook fan page of The Red Whistle at: www.facebook.com/headshotclinic. / or visit www.headshotclinic.com / add them in twitter too! : twitter.com/TheRedWhistle.

M E F

A N I

2011 Bachelors Femina Innocents Day Ball Casino Espa単ol, Cebu City

STYLE FILE

PHOTOS BY: YUNO BASTARECHE

N A M A D

N A L

FASHION SHOW USC-CAFA

HYPED

KIRSTEN ‘KIA’ SEBASTIAN “When I am shopping I usually have my own thing, I don’t think what these stylists think” her personal stance towards styling is quite admirable. She never fails to carry out one classic look by means of lacing up edge on it and deifying black and white screams her being. Her well-edited, highly covetable wardrobe ref lects a definitive style that only few can pull off. Considering her well engaged lifestyle she still manages to have one effortless look. “I love shopping in Hong Kong since it is cheaper, lots of choices and has no freight, I usually shop at central Lan Kwai Fong” admits Kirsten. “If I have to pay a price I have to check the quality out also”.

Clearly, her nifty viewpoint towards style is quite evident “If I really want it I usually just get it, I don’t really care if it’s branded or not and if I see something really bum I get that”. She usually gets her clothes from different countries and different prices “I really don’t care as long as you look good on it”. While clinching some Michael Kors, Prada, xoxo, Zara, Aldo, Charles and Keith and the like she exclaims “I mean there are some people who wear designer clothes and they make the dress look like a rag but then you make a rag look like a dress”.

An imposing point of having a defined philosophy when dressing up is not bringing about any inspiration from anybody but rather having a subjective impression to one’s style. “I don’t think about anyone else on what they think on my outfit, I admire their style but they have their own definition on everything and I can’t think about what they possibly like coz what they possible like might not look good on me”.

D N I H E B

C N A L B

BLANC Magazine is a digital bi-monthly magazine mixing fashion, art culture. Celebrating the underground youth.

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