Northern Living: 2017 April

April 2017 Volume 11 | Issue 08

DETOUR

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CONT ENTS 17 FEATURE Venomous sea creatures

11 COVER STORY Armi Millare and Jake Verzosa on what drives them to travel

Cover photo by Czar Kristoff 22 EATS Introducing Malaysian fare to Marikina

APRIL 2017 04 BEAUTY Better skin from within

26 RECIPE Turn rice into a salad

06 FIXTURE Underwater careers

28 THE GET A jewelry line’s call for patriotism

EDITOR’S NOTE The heat is on According to PAG-ASA, last March 23, Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija heat index hit a whopping 44ºC—already in the danger category where heat cramps and heat exhaustion are more likely to occur. In Metro Manila, the heat index is playing in the late 20s to late 30s within the first week of the summer equinox.

It may seem as if it’s hotter than most days in the metropolis, but this is just a case of the urban heat island effect. Population and modification of land surfaces are the common causes of this exponential increase in temperature, so it’s definitely the right time to book an out-of-town trip with family or friends, if only to

escape the heat and maybe even daily city reality.

“When you reach a certain age, those dreams of a nomadic life don’t really go away, but then again you have reality at arm’s reach every time you come home,” says singersongwriter Armi Millare who, together with photographer Jake Verzosa, is this month’s cover subject.

Verzosa, meanwhile, shares that their busy schedules get in the way of their desire to travel as well. “We both find it hard to go to a place just for the sake of traveling.” Find out how they plan their trips as well as other stories about wandering inside the pages of this month’s issue.

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Northern Living is published by Hinge Inquirer Publications. 4F Media Resource Plaza, Mola corner Pasong Tirad Streets, Barangay La Paz, Makati City. Visit www.facebook.com/ nolisoli.ph now. Follow us on Instagram at @ nolisoli.ph and Twitter at @nolisoliph.

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NORTHERNliving

BUILD THIS CITY

GROUP PUBLISHER BEA J. LEDESMA MANAGING EDITOR DENISE DANIELLE ALCANTARA EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS OLIVER EMOCLING, EDLAINE FLOR, BEA LLAGAS ONLINE ASSOCIATE EDITOR PAULINE MIRANDA CREATIVE DIRECTOR NIMU MUALLAM ART DIRECTOR EDRIC DELA ROSA ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR DANICA CONDEZ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER PATRICK SEGOVIA INTERNS ALEXANDRA MASCENON, JAMIE NAVARRO

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CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS MARIE ADVINCULA, BEVERLY DALTON, PAM BROOKE CASIN PHOTOGRAPHERS CRU CAMARA, GABBY CANTERO, CZAR KRISTOFF, SAM LIM, ARTU NEPOMUCENO ILLUSTRATOR GRACE DE LUNA STYLISTS MARIE ADVINCULA, MELVIN MOJICA HAIR AND MAKEUP JET BABAS, PAM ROBES COPY EDITOR SEPTEMBER GRACE MAHINO PROOFREADER ERIC NICOLE SALTA EDITORIAL CONSULTANT RIA FRANCISCO-PRIETO BOARD CHAIRPERSON ALEXANDRA PRIETO-ROMUALDEZ FINANCE ADVISOR AND TREASURER J. FERDINAND DE LUZURIAGA LEGAL ADVISOR ATTY. RUDYARD ARBOLADO HR STRATEGY HEAD RAYMUND SOBERANO VP AND CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER IMELDA C. ALCANTARA SVP AND GROUP SALES HEAD FELIPE R. OLARTE AVP FOR SALES MA. KATRINA MAE GARCIA-DALUSONG HEAD OF OPERATIONS AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LURISA VILLANUEVA SALES SUPERVISOR JOY SANTOS-PILAR KEY ACCOUNTS SPECIALIST ANGELITA TAN-IBAÑEZ SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ALETHEIA ORDIALES, ABEGAIL GINAGA ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ANDIE ZUÑIGA, CHARM BANZUELO, LIZA JISON SALES SUPPORT ASSISTANTS RECHELLE ENDOZO, MANILYN ILUMIN MANAGING EDITOR ANGELA VELASCO ASSOCIATE MANAGING EDITOR PAM BROOKE CASIN EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS KRYZETTE PAPAGAYO, CHRISTELLE TOLISORA SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES SARAH CABALATUNGAN, SHANNA MALING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE INA MATEO GRAPHIC ARTISTS RACHELL FLORES, KATRICE MONTES, NICO ORTIGOZA, KRISTINE PAZ, JAYCELINE SORIANO PRODUCTION MANAGER JAN CARIQUITAN PRODUCTION ASSISTANT MARICEL GAVINO FINAL ART SUPERVISOR DENNIS CRUZ FA ARTIST ARGYL LEONES

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BEAUT Y

GAME CHANGER

How dietary supplements affect aesthetics TEXT BEVERLY DALTON ILLUSTRATION ALEXANDRA MASCENON

The use of dietary supplements has been a longstanding practice, dating back to the Sumerians with their use of medicinal plants like opium, poppy, thyme, and licorice. Fast forward to the ’90s, and aside from dietary supplements that include essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, the category expanded with ginseng, fish oils, enzymes, and more.

To date, supplements are no longer just in pill form but are also offered in powder and have taken on unique flavors like orange creamsicle or strawberry cheesecake. Those in sports or are taking postworkout supplements would be more familiar with these tasty protein powders.

Currently, with more people going back to the rawness of nature, some companies are working with plant-derived, organic, and non-synthetic ingredients, and incorporate these in their supplements. The benefits have also expanded, on top of their energy-boosting and muscle growth capabilities. One that has stood out and has been

gaining a following especially among women is the de-bloating powder. Some of these natural supplements that claim to relax the stomach and aid in digestion are packed with ginger, peppermint, cinnamon, and turmeric, and they can be added to milk, smoothies, or yogurt bowls—perfect for busy days when there is not enough time to eat a proper breakfast. Unlike multivitamins, an organic, anti-inflammatory, de-bloating supplement can be consumed as needed and at any time of the day, such as after an office lunch meeting or after that nighttime cycling class. These kinds of supplements may soon replace beauty creams as more young women start focusing on inner health.

Yet in the age of social media over-sharing, the power of this de-bloating powder and other magical and natural supplements addresses not just the overall health of the millennial woman but her concern for exterior aesthetic as well. After all, who wants to take a selfie when you look bloated?

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WATER WORLD

Your dream job could be one that takes you below sea level TEXT DENISE DANIELLE ALCANTARA ILLUSTRATION GRACE DE LUNA

Despite our (give or take) 7,641 islands, an estimated 26,000 sq. km. of coral reef area, over 432,000 ship calls from both domestic and foreign vessels, and sea-related industries that provide livelihood to millions, pursuing a marine-related career still seems to be a low priority among students deciding on a college degree. There also seems to be a shortage of specialized courses particular to these careers. Here are some professions to consider: Oceanographer According to Christopher Madrigal, chief of the Marine Development and Ocean Affairs Unit, the country is in dire need of physical, chemical, and biological oceanographers. If you are interested in studying marine ecosystem dynamics, currents and waves, the geology of the sea floor, and how plate tectonics affect the ocean, oceanography covers all the physical and biological aspects involved in this line of work. The government is currently building a pool of experts and specialists in this field, with job

opportunities available for those who are qualified.

For those who prefer a different work environment, there are several scientific institutions and nongovernment organizations here and abroad that offer grants.

Maritime Lawyers There are only a few lawyers who specialize in admiralty law or maritime law in the Philippines. “What we have are maritime lawyers who specialize in commercial maritime law, but we have very few who are experts in international policy and maritime policy,� says Madrigal.

With the prevalence of maritime disputes such as the Scarborough Shoal conflict and the more recent Benham Rise issue, proficiency in

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FIXT URE

navigational rights and international laws governing Maritime Economic Specialists diplomatic relationships has never been as necessary. “We’re moving towards redefining the paradigm of development—from a terrestrial one to a maritimeGeographic Information Specialists centered one. We are in dire need of people with a The National Mapping and Resource Information coherent understanding of maritime development,” Authority (NAMRIA) needs individuals with says Madrigal. Striking a balance between skills in Geographic Information Systems and environmental, social, and economic factors, in order Hydromapping. According to the Environment to reach a sustainable and productive resolution, Science website, this computer-based method allows there’s a call for experts with a deep understanding of a one to overlay maps and datasets and query them in holistic approach to maritime and marine issues. terms of spatial-relationships to each other, helping experts analyze data from different layers in one look.

Other opportunities call for marine biologists who As cited in the National Geographic site, these maps can survey marine life and also discover heretofore can be used by biologists to track animal migration unknown creatures living deep in our oceans. Underwater patterns and by city officials in planning response to photography, although quite an expensive pursuit, is also natural disasters. useful in documenting the current state of life underwater.

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NORT HERNER

FERTILE FRONTIER

In Baler, designer Carmen Araneta found an avenue to cultivate her creative vision TEXT EDLAINE FLOR PHOTOGRAPHY ARTU NEPOMUCENO

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SECURITY BANK WINS BEST MANAGED FUND OF THE YEAR The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Society Philippines, which embodies the global standard of excellence in the investment industry, named Security Bank the winner of the “Best Managed Fund of the Year� in the Peso Balanced Funds category. The Bank also ranked 2nd in the Long Term Peso Bond Fund and 3rd in the Peso Equity Fund categories.

The Best Managed Fund of the Year Awards recognize high-performing funds open to the public, based on their five-year risk-adjusted returns. The awards are a collaboration of the CFA Society Philippines, the Fund Managers Association of the Philippines and the Trust Officers Association of the Philippines. The program aims to raise investment awareness among retail investors and aid them in making sound investment decisions.

Security Bank encourages clients to find investment products that can help them beat inflation. The Bank urges them to invest regularly for the long-term and build a portfolio of diversified investments.

Security Bank is a multi-awarded financial institution in the investment industry. For more expert advice and further information on funds, go to www.securitybank.com/invest or visit the nearest Security Bank branch.

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NORT HERNER

“I moved to Baler because it doesn’t feel modern. You don’t see fast food chains here; what you have here is fresh.”

“When I first came to Baler, I instantly fell in love with the place. I began thinking of how to prepare the place for when the next typhoon comes,” says Carmen Araneta of Easy Adventure. Back in 2014, they found this three-hectare land—suited for her eco-luxe camp visitors—that would complement the place’s main attraction: surfing. Though some would use the word glamping, Araneta believes her business finds a good middle between the comforts of a resort and an authentic experience of nature.

Already eight months pregnant as of writing, Araneta has established a routine and a new way of life in Baler. Away from the city, she wakes up at around 6:30 a.m., and along with her dogs and her husband Paolo Villacorta, walks to the camp to have breakfast and even enjoys some of the activities they offer such as kayaking and paddle boarding. “I moved to Baler because it doesn’t feel modern. You don’t see fast food chains here; what you have here is fresh.”

Subsequent to building Easy Adventure from the ground up, the soon-to-be family of three are already working on their organic farm that will cater to visitors who also want to learn more about organic farming. The produce from the farm will be used in their restaurant.

Prior to moving here and starting her resort, Araneta had already established Carisse, a clothing brand for island girls at heart: swimwear and everyday wear infused with a tropical vibe such as ruffled offshoulder tops. “I’ve always appreciated the woman’s body and I was inspired by the ’70s and ’90s. Now that we live in Baler, I get inspired by nature, the crashing waves, the flow of the sea.” She adds that she usually drafts her designs when it’s hot. Though she’s expecting a boy, Araneta soon expects her label to carry a line for girls, with linen and pompoms as some of the materials. “We’re going to do a mom and baby [line], and that’s what I’m working on now; it should be out by May.” The clothing brand’s name is taken from Araneta’s childhood nickname.

Together with Araneta’s continuous search to further develop a more mindful business, Baler has also been evolving exponentially beyond their surf culture. Baler’s coast is teeming with restaurants and coffee shops. And beyond the coast, Araneta hopes to highlight the picturesque meeting of the river mouth and the Pacific Ocean at Charlie’s Point, famous for its appearance in Francis Coppola’s 1977 classic film Apocalypse Now.

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MAKEUP PAM ROBES GROOMING AND HAIR JET BABAS STYLING MELVIN MOJICA

On Armi: Top, Fred Perry, TriNoma Mall. Pants and kimono, both Joey Samson, 0918-9592541.

On Jake: Jacket, Rajo Man, Shangri-La Plaza Mall.

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COV ER STORY

Armi Millare and Jake Verzosa return to the primary purpose of travel TEXT OLIVER EMOCLING PHOTOGRAPHY CZAR KRISTOFF

“It was a long way up,” singer-songwriter Armi Millare recounts her trip with photographer Jake Verzosa, her boyfriend, to Sagada last year. Sagada gained popularity after its key role in Antoinette Jadaone’s That Thing Called Tadhana, a film featuring Millare’s hit Tadhana.

“We’d been [to Sagada] before, and it’s always been this beautiful place that stays the same each time you’re back,” Millare reveals. However, this particular trip was different. The two rode on Verzosa’s Ural sidecar to Sagada. Since they can’t bring the vehicle on the expressway, the supposedly 12-hour trip extended to 17 hours. On top of the already excruciatingly long road trip, they also encountered unexpected (perhaps even unfortunate) detours. “A piece of the bike fell out, and we had to look for a repair shop in Pampanga,” Millare recalls. “Then, on the way down [back to Manila], I put on my raincoat at the first sign of rain. But after a while, I thought, ‘You know what?

I won’t wear it anymore. I’m already drenched down to my socks, anyway.’ But I didn’t have a terrible time at all, especially since I was with someone as patient as Jake.”

A couple riding a bike together—it’s like a scene out of a whimsical French film, like Amélie. But in reality, the two like to take it slow when they travel.

They try to do nothing for the first two days after arriving at their destination, passing time sitting in a café to observe the place and the people. “[Then] you slowly realize you’re having coffee, doing something you do every day, but in a different location,” Millare says.

It was almost night when they arrived at the picturesque province. “We had dinner and enjoyed the silence of the town,” Millare recounts. The following days, they simply went around town: visited Lake Danum and Mt. Kiltepan and checked the local pottery and bakery. They even stayed by the court where kids were playing. “Every day was like a dream. A life so simple but so, so beautiful,” she says.

the motorbike, which he considers his primary transportation mode. More than 10 years ago, he obtained his first motorbike, a Vespa. He attributes his love for motorcycles as an influence of his mom who also rode the motorbike.

More than the convenience, Verzosa recalls the more technical side of photography when he deals with his collection of old bikes. “Lately, I got into collecting vintage bikes that I restored. I guess it’s the technical side of photography that I missed.

Tinkering with the bike is like working in the dark room,” he says.

Verzosa takes his motorbike even to his out-of-town projects. He dealt with various indigenous groups for his photo series including “Communal Identity,” “Karen,” “Manobo,” and the more recent and popular “The Last Tattooed Women of Kalinga.” The latter is an homage to his hometown Tuguegarao. “I’ve been seeing Kalinga men and women with tattoos when I was a kid and I also wanted to document my region,” he says.

However, Verzosa admits that he travels differently since having a daughter. “Being away is good but I can’t be away for too long anymore,” he says. “I lived on my own and I didn’t have a daughter yet. Any time I chose to leave, I could do it for long periods of time.”

Bitten by the travel bug “I feel homesick all the time,” Millare confesses.

For 10 years, Millare focused on music and never thought of going on a leisure trip. In fact, when she goes on a trip with Verzosa, she lets him oversee the logistics of the trip. “I’m terrible at that. I just give minor suggestions but it boils down to how he feels about it—he’s the expert,” she says.

Back then, she only traveled for her shows or for the production of her band’s music. “I used to take quick trips or rent a house for a couple of months when writing an album,” she says. Recently, however, she has been able to write at home. When she goes on a trip, she always carries her 32-key Midi controller.

“One time we rode on a long trip, I got to complete a song in my head,” she says.

Born for the road Meeting Verzosa wasn’t just a case of finding love; “It’s easy to navigate in the city [with a motorbike]. for Millare, she also found someone who ignited I can park anywhere, anytime,” Verzosa says of in her a yearning to travel. “I guess I had to meet

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Jake Verzosa’s traveling essentials include protective gear, a tool kit (“Since [most of my bikes] are old, no matter what happens, I get to fix it.”), and, of course, his cameras.

Top, Fred Perry, TriNoma Mall.

someone really encouraging, [someone who has seen the can’s lid, and use the tent pegs to mix the coffee a lot] in life,” she says. with. We separated from everyone else. There was no one there, not even trees,” Millare recalls.

Meeting point However, the couple still finds it difficult to “Our schedules are total opposites. Every chance we travel aimlessly together. “I feel guilty if I have to get where we have a few days together, we travel,” go away for a period of time where I don’t have Verzosa says. Their trip to Sagada is one of the rare anything important to do. Often, it’s the destination moments where they traveled purely for leisure. The that chooses us [through our] work,” Millare says. other one they could remember is when they went to Hence, their journeys together are mostly scheduled Anawangin, Zambales, their first trip together. That around work. trip, they say, is the most spontaneous they had yet. “It In 2014, for instance, when Verzosa’s photographs was summer and there were a lot of people, so we went were exhibited at Paris Photo in France, Millare to a deserted beach then stayed overnight,” Verzosa tagged along, with both of them making a stop at says. “We left our [gear], so we had to cut Spam with Chefchaouen in Morocco before going on to France.

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On Armi:Vest, Joey Samson, 0918-9592541.

On Jake: Top, Rajo Man, Shangri-La Plaza Mall.

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Armi Millare brings her 32-key Midi controller.

When she travels, she always looks for well-made plates and umbrellas. The umbrella in this photo is a souvenir from Japan.

Top, Fred Perry, TriNoma Mall.

“There wasn’t much to do there,” Verzosa says, “but the place was beautiful.” Chefchaouen, they say, remains their favorite place.

Probed if traveling together for work distracts them, Verzosa says, “We’re together most of the time that it feels we’re practically alone together. It’s become so fluid; we don’t get in the way of each other.”

The concept of getting lost is often romanticized, but it seems like Millare and Verzosa have abandoned the yearning to be lost. Perhaps, it’s because they have found each other already. She admits, however, that she feels they haven’t traveled together enough.

“Maybe soon enough we’ll both learn to detach from our responsibilities and get lost? But that feels a bit unrealistic. When you reach a certain age, those dreams of a nomadic life don’t really go away, but then again you have reality at arm’s reach every time you come home. If it’s just about being together, then we would rather stay home.”

They both know the path they want to take together. “To come home,” says Millare simply.

“That’s the reality I look forward to seeing, and it beats any destination out there.” The solace they get from traveling is not measured in miles but in how they spend time together. “During a busy week for us both, Jake would take me to gigs on his bike, and those short rides become ‘dates,’” she says. “It’s about whom you’re with, not where you go.”

“When you reach a certain age, those dreams of a nomadic life don’t really go away, but then again you have reality at arms’ reach every time you come home.”

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FEAT URE

OPEN OCEAN These creatures’ defense mechanisms can cause inconvenience or even death TEXT JAMIE NAVARRO AND DENISE DANIELLE ALCANTARA ILLUSTRATION DANICA CONDEZ

With over a million species living in the rainforests of the sea around the world, every peek into the teeming life below is an awe-inspiring experience.

The Philippines has an estimated 26,000 square kilometers of coral reef, making our waters the perfect destination for snorkeling, diving, and even researching marine life.

But whether you’re leisurely snorkeling in the shallows or diving deep into the cliffs and valleys of the sea, here’s a quick guide on what to avoid and what to do when encountered with some of the most venomous sea creatures.

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Box Jellyfish These little guys may look like any other jellyfish with their luminescent bodies, but the box jellyfish, with its cube-shaped head, ejects dangerous venom that can kill a person in one sting. Mostly living in Australian waters, the box jellyfish has also been spotted in beaches around the country.

First aid: There have been a few box jellyfish stinging incidents in Batangas and Palawan. In case you’re stung, immediately disengage the jellyfish tentacles from the affected body part and submerge the stung area in hot water before rushing to the hospital.

Blue-ringed Octopus The unique, blue-ringed pattern all over its body entrances an observer, but this delightful-looking animal is quite dangerous, given that a bite from its parrot-like beak can introduce tetrodotoxin to the victim’s system. Tetrodoxin: 1,200 times more poisonous than cyanide, can be deadly if not treated immediately.

First aid: While on the way to the hospital, apply pressure through a tourniquet to keep the toxin from spreading throughout the body, removing the bandage every 90 seconds then reapplying it again for 10 minutes.

Stonefish This master of camouflage is dubbed the most venomous fish. Stonefish are generally harmless to human beings. But when disturbed or worse, stepped on, its defense mechanism is to release a poisonous substance that could potentially kill a human being if not treated within an hour.

First aid: To destroy the venom and also lessen the pain, soak affected area in hot water for 30 to 90 minutes. There is also an available anti-venom for further treatment.

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Flower Urchin Looking like a bouquet of tiny flowers or a single dahlia, this species of sea urchin, commonly found in the Indo-West Pacific, looks like a harmless little gem, but it has caused pain to many snorkelers and divers who unknowingly touch coral reefs. Some effects are muscular paralysis, disorientation, and breathing problems.

First aid: Most of the time, the flower urchin’s sting can be managed by removing its spike immediately from the skin and submerging the affected body part in hot water for at least an hour.

Textile Cone Snail Disguised as any other pretty seashell by the seashore, the textile cone snail or conus textile has the capacity to torment its prey. Its microscopic needles contain conotoxins that may dangerously damage the nervous system, instantly causing immense pain, numbness, or even paralysis.

First aid: To ease the pain, submerge the affected area in hot water then bandage it before heading to the hospital.

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M ARKET

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OUT OF THE SEA

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The change in season calls for a fresh wave of objects PHOTOGRAPHY CRU CAMARA PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT MERSI CARBALLO

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M ARKET 1. Hydra Vital Hydration Mask, P1,950, L’Occitane, TriNoma Mall.

2. Ring, P15,480, Unica, Firma, Greenbelt 3.

3. Verbena shampoo, P1,150, L’Occitane, TriNoma Mall.

4. L’eau Neroli, P5,950, Diptyque, Rustan’s, Shangri-La Plaza Mall.

5. Bracelet, P4,950, Emily Kate, Firma, Greenbelt 3.

6. Earrings, P3,180, Daniela Calumba, Firma, Greenbelt 3.

7. Galop d’Hermès, Hermès, Greenbelt 3.

8. Necklace, P6,380, Firma, Greenbelt 3.

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EATS PappaRam’s Curry Power Laksa is the Malay laksa known as Nyonya laksa. It’s infused with spiced coconut milk.

“My philosophy is that we cannot do fusion. This is part of our history and it should be passed on to the next generation.”

COMMON GROUND

Authentic Malaysian fare adds color to the growing restaurant scene in Manila TEXT OLIVER EMOCLING PHOTOGRAPHY SAM LIM

Standing along the long stretch of J.P. Rizal, PappaRam Malaysian Kitchen is a nondescript establishment. If you are not attentive enough, you might miss the restaurant.

Inside, however, it has a maximalist appeal, the walls adorned with little objects from Malaysia: a portrait of the country’s father of independence Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysian stamps, and a photo of the popular Federal Court of Malaysia.

A brainchild of chef Ramzu Nasri, PappaRam started in November 2015 in Pasig as a small home-based business. Back then, Nasri would just cook and simply give the food away to his neighbors. Early this year, Nasri and his wife Marianne decided to operate in Marikina.

Malaysia is 1,477 miles away from the Philippines, but Nasri suggests that Malaysian cuisine is not too different from Filipino cuisine. “You use a lot of coconut milk, we use a lot of coconut milk, too,” he illustrates. In fact, he already finds almost 80 percent of the spices he needs here. The rest are imported from Malaysia.

Nasri presents a series of dishes akin to Filipino favorites as well. The Mee Jawa Special is an egg noodle dish swimming in gravy made of sweet potatoes. It resembles pancit palabok, and while on the sweeter side, it is not cloying. He also presents Malaysian-style inasal, which, unlike the usual inasal, has the chicken marinating in 15 different spices overnight before hitting the grill. The result is meat that is a bit dry outside, but tender and savory inside.

The Roti Boom, on the other hand, is a sweet offering derived from Malaysian cuisine’s Indian influences. It’s a chewy, butter-filled flat bread served hot and meant to be dipped in vanilla ice cream. The bread is a reminder of merienda favorite ensaymada.

Nasri recalls growing up in Malaysia amid an abundance of hawker stalls that serve his favorite dish Nasi Lemak, considered their national dish. Cucumbers, peanuts, anchovies, sambal, and chicken surround an immaculate mound of rice cooked in coconut milk. As it is at the center of the plate, the rice is truly the star of this dish. It’s sticky and sweet, similar to our suman.

For Nasri, the goal is to bring that similar experience to Manila through PappaRam. Although Nasri caters to different diners now, he doesn’t want to change the recipes just to appeal to the local palate. “When customers come in, I want them to experience real Malaysian cuisine,” he says. “My philosophy is that we cannot do fusion. This is part of our history and it should be passed on to the next generation.”

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EATS Clockwise: Chef Ramzu Nasri first learned to cook the French way before he dabbled in Chinese cuisine; crispy buttered chicken; and poached white chicken.

PappaRam Malaysian Kitchen. 45 J.P. Rizal St., Kalumpang, Marikina City. 0999-7870812. www.facebook.com/PappaRam-Malaysian-Kitchen.

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RECIPE

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RECIPE

RICE AND SHINE

Turn your favorite carb into a refreshing salad TEXT AND STYLING MARIE ADVINCULA PHOTOGRAPHY GABBY CANTERO

CRISPY RICE SALAD

INGREDIENTS

1 cup cooked brown rice Canola oil for frying Sea salt Ground black pepper 2-inch knob of ginger, halved 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped 2 leeks, thinly sliced 2 to 3 tbsp. hot sauce

PROCEDURE

1. Heat oil in a pot. Test oil by dropping a grain of rice; it should bubble and quickly float to surface.

Pour in the rest of the rice and fry for a few seconds. Stir after a minute or two of frying. Then, remove from oil once it has turned a nice golden brown color.

2. Lay fried rice on a tray lined with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

For the dressing 1. Combine the ginger and lemon juice in a small bowl. Let the lemon juice infuse for at least 30 minutes.

2. Transfer the crisp fried rice into a large bowl. Using a fork, break up any clumps. Add the cucumber, mint, cilantro, and leeks.

3. Pour in a tablespoon or so of the infused lemon juice, leaving behind the ginger. Add hot sauce according to your preference.

4. Add a pinch of sea salt and toss well.

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T HE GET

A REKINDLING

This contemporary jewelry line pays homage to the patriotic heart TEXT PAM BROOKE CASIN

The adage “wear your heart on your sleeve” seems to be the driving concept behind Jul B. Dizon Jewellery’s newest collection Simbolo. Beautifully crafted with diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and peridots in solid 18K gold, each piece pays respect to Filipino heritage and the many treasures of our proud nation.

The contemporary collection of rings, pins, clips, pendants, cufflinks, and bracelets are more than just items for adornment. They represent Filipino identity and our vibrant culture, in the same way that they celebrate the late Dizon matriarch’s core

values of patriotism and family.

Designed for everyday use, the Perdible line of extra-large decorative safety pins borrows elements from the Philippine flag: a sun and three stars, brightly accentuated with white or yellow diamonds. You can wear the Perdible by itself or personalize it with pendants, beads, monograms, or other danglers. While there are a total of seven lines within the Simbolo collection, all of the carefully crafted pieces are mood-changers, meant to bolster fervent love for the country and keep the patriotic heart beating.

Jul B. Dizon Jewellery. GF EDSA Shangri-La Manila, 1 Garden Way, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City. 0915-7228238. www.simbolo.com.ph.

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