ILLUSTRADO Magazine Dec 2012

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THE MAGAZINE FOR THE INTERNATIONAL FILIPINO

15 DEC - 15 JAN 2013

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD THE HOLIDAY TRAVEL SURVIVAL GUIDE I WON’T BE HOME FOR X-MAS CANADA: OUR FIRST WHITE CHRISTMAS FASHION: WOODLAND NYMPH SPIRITUALITY: BE A GIVER BEAUTY, BRAINS AND BENEVOLENCE BEATING HOLIDAY STRESS

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ISSUE

Sparkle

EDITOR’S NOTE

Photo by Eros Goze

The best Christmas gift… ever

Each year, I’m always hit by the urgency of holiday chores at the very last minute, and shopping for gifts is probably the one that makes me cringe the most.

It’s not that I can’t summon the humongous effort it takes to brave the festive mall rush - jostling with fellow last minute shoppers. But most of all, it’s finding the right presents for loved ones and friends.

I’d hate to put a damper on your Christmas list, but seriously, how much more toys, gadgets, jewelries, clothes, bags, perfumes, gift vouchers, spa vouchers, etc., etc., can you give or receive year after year, after year?

I’m not saying that we shouldn’t give to our family and friends, and that it’s not good to receive presents. It’s just that there has to be something more to gift giving than these mere “things”; and certainly more to Christmas than the food, the parties, decorations and all.

So this time around, I told myself that apart from the typical annual tradition, my Christmas should go beyond all this and focus on what, to me, is the most important thing of all -

Gratitude.

It’s so easy to miss the real essence of Christmas with all the sparkly material trappings that come with it. True enough, many of us, especially faithful Filipinos, know the spiritual significance of the season. But how many can say, that we truly feel the gratefulness of knowing that a child was born on that special day to save us all? And that we are truly blessed with so many wonderful things each day we are given the privilege to wake up?

Sometimes when we already have everything that is important, we lose sight of the real value of blessings in our lives.

So, I say thank you – To my family, the most supportive, most loving people on earth, without whom, I am nothing. To my lovely children whom I’m fiercely proud of, and who amaze me each time I catch a glimpse of their humanity, grace and brilliance even at such a young age. My husband, “partner in crime” and indispensable other half, who has enriched my life invaluably and without whom I cannot live – period.

To my friends – who always give me a reason to laugh and cry, who are a constant source of warmth and comfort, and who know me and accept me, warts and all. To my Team – my other family, who make my life and work easier, who trudge on tirelessly with me, come hell or high water. To the Filipino community out here who has accepted us with respect, confidence and friendship, and who constantly give me us a reason to strive.

To my Big Boss, thank you for this wonderful world, where, despite some moments of darkness, we can still feel the warmth of Your guiding hand. Thank You for Your constant capacity to provide for us and protect us. Thank You for the opportunity to live with meaning, the talent to touch other people positively, and the joyfulness of being touched by the simplest of pleasures. Thank You too, for the gift of gratitude, of being able to appreciate how constantly blessed we are, without which, this world will not be as beautiful.

A Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year to all of you…

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

CONTRIBUTORS Excel Dyquianco

Excel Dyquianco writes for various publications in the Philippines, on a range of different diverse topics like travel, men’s health, sports and hobbies, and enjoys the opportunity of being able to explore the country as a writer with appreciative eyes. This month, Excel contributes two different kinds of Christmas stories for Illustrado. In “I won’t be home for Christmas”, Excel interviews Filipinos whose jobs take them away from their families during the holidays. In his second story, “Christmas around the world”, Excel looks at how Pinoys—famous for having the longest Christmas celebrations—celebrate Christmas in their host country, which they now call their home away from home.

Bo Sanchez

Bro Bo Sanchez is a man of many achievements. You’ve probably already read his best-selling books, attended one of his seminars, or even seen him on TV or online. Bo Sanchez – or Bro. Bo, doesn’t really need any introduction. This Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) awardee, best-selling author and respected speaker shares worthwhile words of wisdom with Illustrado readers every month in his column on Spirituality. In this season of giving, Bro. Bo talks about the greatest giver he has known in his life—his mother.

Anna Oposa

Anna Oposa graduated from the University of the Philippines with a degree in BA English Studies in 2011. She spends most of her time writing and editing for various local and international publications. When she’s not on her laptop, the co-founder of Save Philippine Seas is usually underwater.

She writes the second annual feature on “Beauty, Brains and Benevolence” interviewing women who have used their knowledge and influence to empower others.

“Filipinos who claim that the country needs more role models have obviously not heard of these amazing women. It was an honor to interview Filipinas who are changing the landscape of social entrepreneurship. Seeing them in action shows how the relentless pursuit of a cause can have limitless impacts,”

Johanna Michelle Lim

Johanna Michelle Lim is a freelance copywriter and graphic artist from Cebu. She graduated with a degree of Fine Arts in Advertising Arts at the University of San Carlos back in 2008, and has been wandering and wayward since. When she isn’t stuck in the Design world, she keeps busy by engaging in masochistic projects like writing a story or producing one photograph a day. In this issue, she writes about how art and space come together in House of Cebu, the first design hotel to be established in her home town.

Neph Kirong Nikka Sarthou

A journalism graduate, Neph is currently a researcher-writer for a local television network. She is also an occasional sports writer, covering collegiate events, for an online sports and lifestyle portal. An obsessed multitasker, she also dabbles in a wide array of work, which includes social media management. Neph interviewed two Filipinos, one based in New York and another based in Myanmar, who celebrate the spirit of giving everyday through their humanitarian work.

Full-time freelance writer Nikka specializes in lifestyle-related features. She has written for various local print and online publications, as well as corporate clients. She is one of the founders of Writer’s Block Philippines, an organization that aims to provide writers an avenue to hone their skills and make them effective communicators, and content manager of OfficiallyPhilippines.com, a website that aims to be the ultimate travel guide to the Philippines. Recently named one of Moleskine’s Modern Nomads, Nikka writes about the perils of travel, especially during the holiday season—one of the busiest times of the year.

Paelo Pedrajas

Paelo Pedrajas is a young and dynamic photographer who is a graduate of Advertising Arts from the University of Santo Tomas.

Although exposed to different disciplines in photography such as landscape, food, commercial and photo journalism, he has a strong sense for fashion photography with style ranging from raw to high street to glamour. And his portfolio certainly speaks for itself; Paelo’s works have been published in the leading Philippine fashion glossies. He has also done projects for the likes of Michael Cinco, Renee Salud, Philippine Fashion Week, Ford Supermodels of the World, Celine and Bayo, among others. In this issue, Paelo shoots the most sumptuous holiday wear from Manila’s bright designers.

Publisher & Editor-in Chief Lalaine Chu-Benitez Associate Editor Ana Santos CONTRIBUTING WRITERS UAE, Philippines, USA Aby Yap Anna Lorraine Balita JR Bustamante Bernadette Reyes Jude Cartalaba Bo Sanchez Karen Galarpe Carlito Viriña KC Abalos David Poarch Krip Yuson Excel Dyquiangco Nikka Sathou Flordeliz Samonte Nina Terol- Zialcita Francisco Colayco Rache Hernandez Isabelo Samonte Rome Jorge Ivan Henares Sherry Tenorio Jack Catarata Sonny Guzman Jesse Edep Vic Lactaoen ART DIRECTORS Tom Bolivar Paula Lorenzo Ron Perez CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS UAE Eros Goze Mariyah Gaspacho Christina Linaza Illuminado Ong Donald Rosales CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS PHILIPPINES Enzo Mondejar Dr. Marlon Pecjo Alan Desiderio CONTRIBUTING STYLISTS & FASHION TEAM UAE Jessie Tabla Ginno Alducente Jojo Padua Frankie Melendez PUBLISHER - UAE Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2nd Floor, Building 2, P.O. Box 72280 Office 20C Dubai Media City, UAE Tel: +9714 365 4543, 365 4547 Fax:+9714 360 4771 E-mail: admin@illustrado.net, info@illustrado.net Web: www.illustrado.net, www.illustradolife.com PRINTERS PRINTWELL PRINTING LLC P.O. Box 18828 Dubai, UAE Copyright Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2006-2012. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC.

CONTENTS

48 DEC 2012

Filipina mestiza beauty Coraleen Waddell exudes ethereality in this issue’s style editorial – Woodland Nymph.

FEATURES

Christmas Around the World 12 I Won’t be Home for Christmas 16 Filipino Humanitarianism 30 Beauty, Brains and Benevolence 34 The Holiday Travel Survival Guide 70 Beating Holiday Stress 72 Prima. Ballerina. Filipina. 74 Papercuts 80

COLUMNS

Editor’s Note 1 Contributors 2 Talking Loud 4 Illuminati: X-Mas Quirks for Pamilyang Pinoy 6 It’s What I Do 26 Spirituality: It’s the Time of the Year to be a Giver 28 Kabuhayan – Money: How do you find a Financial Planner? 42 Illustrado Scrapbook 44 Bayanihan Corner: Isang Maaga at Paulit-Ulit na Pasko 82 Community 83 Filipinisms: Onli in da Pilipins – Something Pinoy 86

FASHION

Woodland Nymph 48

PLACES

Global Barrio: Our First White Christmas 20 Trippin’: Five Things to Do 68 Trippin’: House of Cebu Living in Art 77

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06 TALKING LOUD

Write to us at: editor@illustrado.net or join the discussion at IIlustrado Magazine’s Facebook page

P.S. It would be great to get a copy of the magazine out here in New York. : ) Hi Claire, Thank you for your words of praise.

Indeed, it’s just what we need to inspire us to come up with cutting edge fashion spreads every month. The idea generation is something that we immensely enjoy— it almost doesn’t seem like work—well, sometimes. : )

Yo Illustrado!

Astig ng mga stories in the November issue! Lalo na yun sa female tattoo artist -ang galeng! May naririnig na akong babae na nagta-tatt pero hindi pa Pinay. Sana dumami pa tribo nila. Astig talaga!

Cholo To Illustrado Magazine Team; I couldn’t thank you enough in giving my girl the Best Opportunity there is in life! Maraming Salamat! It’s always nice seeing our origins, to be out in the world in this beautiful way.

Yes, we definitely have a lot to be PROUD of! From our beautiful land, down to our beautiful, smart, and talented people...

Keep up the good work Illustrado! Bravo!

And yay to all!

Chit Ferris

We don’t have distribution outside of the UAE yet, but we did start distributing to Fully Booked in Manila. Perhaps if you’re visiting, you can get in touch with our local distributor for some back issues? Please contact +63917.820.7277.

But don’t worry, we’re looking for ways to expand reach in other countries, with technology the way it is nowadays. Stay tuned for that!

Lalaine Dear Ms. Chu-Benitez, I have been dating a Filipina for the last couple of months and am slowly coming to understand the importance of things like family—even extended ones like in the case of cousins! It was a bit overwhelming at the start and I’m still—shall I call it daunted--oft times. I read Jeremy Baer and Margie Holmes’ column always to learn more about the intricacies of Filipino behaviour and culture. To say that Mr. Baer is an Englishman like myself gives me a feeling of relief that there is someone who has been able to paddle the same boat that we have quite gleefully chosen to be in.

Dear Illustrado,

Good day to you.

Where ever do you get your ideas for your fashion spreads? I live in New York and have not been able to get an actual copy of the magazine, but I am a Facebook fan and eagerly await your posting of the fashion pages every month. I have not seen anything remotely the same to previous months or—I dare say—other fashion magazines.

Mr. J. Davis

Bravo, Illustrado! ~Claire

Dear Mr. Davis, Thank you for your letter. We’re happy to see that Illustrado has been able to be of service in matters of the heart, and not just fashion.

Paddle on!

Lalaine Dear Editor, I was very happy to read the story about

Secretary Teresita Deles getting a peace award. I was born and raised in Mindanao and now live in Abu Dhabi. I do not remember a period of my childhood that was not filled with conflict and fear. Those of us who could leave did so as soon as we were able to.

I’ve been away for 3 and a half years and I continue to have mixed feelings about going back. I’m always afraid that I will see that nothing has changed. On the other hand, I continue to be starved for news.

When Mindanao is mentioned in the international news, which is not often, it is usually bad news. Thank you, Illustrado, for bringing in a fresh perspective. I remain hopeful with the new peace agreement and I pray to Allah that this is the start of more good news coming from and about my region. ~ Princess Dear Lalaine, Hi there! I was thrilled to read the story about global Davao cacao. Call me sentimental, a dreamer, an optimist – heck, call me all of the above, but I so believe that there are many indicators show that the Philippines will have its place in the global arena soon enough. In the meantime, let me know how I can get my hands on those artisan Philippine chocolates! ~ Annette Reyes Hi Annette, I couldn’t tell for sure where you’re based from your letter, but you can check out this website for orders of tablea within the Philippines http://www.thegiftfarm.ph/ or this link to Askinosie chocolate which has products that made from our Davao cacao. http://www.askinosie.com/p-75-77davao-philippines-dark-chocolate-bar.aspx Good luck to you!

Lalaine

08 ILLUMINATI

XMAS QUIRKS FOR PAMILYANG PINOY

by Krip Yuson

It keeps getting longer, our Christmas season in the Philippines. Seems we can’t get enough even of our initial touting that we observe the longest such season in the world.

That claim used to cover only the period starting on the first Misa de Gallo or Dawn Mass, on the 16th of December, and extending till the Feast of the Three Kings, which used to enjoy permanency on the 6th of January.

And then the Roman Catholic pooh-bahs decided that it was high time to ratchet the calendar of feast-day observances, and turned the Adoration of the Magi Melchor, Gaspar and Baltazar into a movable feast — the first Sunday of the new year.

As a boy, I used to count all the days of this blessed, magical season when everything revolved around good cheer and giftgiving. And long days and nights with family. Exactly 22 days.

That didn’t quite truncate our longest holiday stretch towards the end of yet another year. The uber religious began to honor the celebratory season from what was claimed to be its official spiritual start: Advent.

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As commercialism ran rampant with the advent of modern urban agoras called malls, spawning such newfangled Western observances as Mothers Day, Fathers Day, Grandparents Day, Teachers Day, the celebration of the Mother Holiday of them all, Yuletide, kept getting advanced.

Soon the Metro Manilan joke was how — mock aghast — one first heard a Christmas carol playing in some mall or a radio station as soon as the first of the so-called “’ber months” came marching in.

10 ILLUMINATI

This socio-cultural phenom is what has come to prevail. Well, maybe until some deejay seeking to strike out as buena mano starts playing White Christmas in August.

Yet only rather recently have I noted that families and offices and business district avenues have now latched on to the merry zeitgeist that Christmas lights be set up as soon as Halloween décor is taken down, the very day after All Saints’ Day — which by the by we used to call Todos Los Santos but which has now reverted, per TV news anchors who sparked the now trendy term, to “Undas.”

This last no one is exactly sure as to provenance, however evidently to a Spanish word it must relate. Peeps from Laguna and Batangas contend that it’s “Undras.” A recent lengthy thread on FB initiated by poet Marne Kilates turned inconclusive, only coming up with the Spanish “ondas” for waves or “andas” which, per Pete Lacaba, means “bier” among other things — or where coffin or corpse is sometimes placed before burial.

Getting back to Christmas or our “Pasko” from the first colonizers’ “Pascua,” I’ve noted with no small measure of stupefaction how at least a couple of families I visited

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ILLUMINATI 10

on All Souls Day, a day after Undas, had taken down the plastic pumpkins, witches’ figures, brooms and masks that had adorned their residences’ gates, driveways, and front doors, and already put up strings of twinkling Christmas lights in their place. AND Christmas trees and “belens” or crèches were also already set up in sala or lanai!

This was on November 2, mind you. Why, they’ve begun to celebrate the Yuletide season even well before Advent, the period of Christian preparation for Christmas — this year starting on December 2 or the Sunday nearest November 30, the feast day of St. Andrew the Apostle.

Advent covers four Sundays. These families I visited with their Christmas trees already in place — replete with all the usual trimmings and borloloys that can only manifest the Pinoy’s irrepressible sense of horror vacui — were one-upping Advent Sunday by a full month!

And since the Feast of the Three Kings coincidentally falls next year on the actual original date, the 6th of January, these Pinoy families would actually be celebrating the season of great good cheer for a total of 66 days, or for more than two months!

Talk about stretching it, then keeping calm and carrying on. Funny thing is, the deejays and malls had already beaten them to it, having shared a musical prelude of the utmost commercial season as early as September!

All of this may also point out that apart from merry-making, which is decidedly our birthright, Filipinos simply like to enjoy as much time as possible with family. It’s a glutinous relationship, and not only pertaining to the nuclear notion of a family. There’s the extended family, stretching out to clan, barangay, tribe — suggesting that among Pinoys, it’s 1.5 degrees of separation that prevails.

I guess our fear of a space vacuum extends as well to fear of being an island or a rock unto oneself. We all need to share space, intimate space, with everyone we hold dear or can’t fend off from our radius of family tree or neighborhood.

We need to be together — with someone, with many.

We prize togetherness — the very spirit of the holiday season we try to extend as much as we can.

12 NEWS

Two Filipinos among Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World

Two Filipinos are among the Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World (TOYP) for 2012, an annual search by the Junior Chamber International (JCI), otherwise known as the Jaycees.

They are Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, president of MicroVentures, a social enterprise known for the award-winning program Hapinoy, and Dr. Edsel Maurice Salvaña, Assistant Director of the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila—also known for his work with HIV/AIDS patients in the Philippines.

Aquino and Salvaña are joined by eight other outstanding young individuals from Botswana, Catalonia (Spain), Ireland, Madagascar, the Maldives, the United Kingdom, and Zimbabwe. The were awarded at the JCI World Congress in Taipei, Taiwan on November 20, 2012, which coincides with the organization’s 30th anniversary.

The winners were determined after a worldwide selection process that included online voting of 20 finalists. According to the JCI, over 15,000 votes were cast and finalists were once more subjected to a judging panel.

After that, “Ten young active citizens were selected for their exemplary service to their communities and the world.”

Aquino is being recognized for his “business, economic and/or entrepreneurial accomplishment” through the microfinancing social enterprise Hapinoy, and was

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cited for having “developed a sense of hard work, compassion and a desire to help people help themselves out of hardship.”

Meanwhile, Salvaña is being recognized for “humanitarian and/or voluntary leadership… for his extraordinary work in awareness and treatment of HIV/AIDS.”

“Pioneers in positive change”

Called “pioneers in positive change”, both Aquino and Salvaña were both named among the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines in 2010.

Aquino graduated summa cum laude, valedictorian, and university student council president from the Ateneo de Manila University in 1999. In 2003, he was appointed as Chairman of the National Youth Commission at 25 years old—the youngest ever to have held that post. In 2007, he cofounded Hapinoy, a social enterprise that leverages on micro-financing to provide poor women running sari-sari stores with access to credit, goods, training, and a support structure.

As the JCI points out, “The program helps local shops grow through business aggregation and personal development programs for the employees. Aquino’s philosophy on how to alleviate poverty focuses on making the people self-sufficient and giving them the tools and skills to produce sustainable solutions to issues in their communities.”

Meanwhile, Salvaña completed his undergraduate studies in Biology, magna cum laude, at the University of the Philippines Diliman in 1996, and went on to pursue a medical degree at the UP College of Medicine.

After his graduation in 2001, he went on to study Internal Medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee and Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine at the Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio.

He became part of the Adjunct Faculty for Global Health at the University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but he soon found his homeland calling. In 2008, Salvaña came home as a “Balik Scientist” of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).Upon his return to the country, Dr. Salvaña discovered the rising incidence of HIV/AIDS in the Philippines and initiated an awareness and research campaign “long before the Philippine government officially recognized the epidemic.”

“His early detection of the disease spurred government agencies to make HIV/AIDS policy a priority and initiated positive changes regarding testing and treatment. Dr. Salvana has since taken his campaign global, delivering educational, action-oriented speeches about the epidemic to the United Nations and the United States Peace Corps.

Locally, he treats HIV/AIDS patients at the Philippine General Hospital and established the first Philippine HIV/AIDS fellowship program to increase care for the disease,” the website continues.

A global network of “young active citizens [creating] positive impact”

The JCI is a global membership-based nonprofit organization of “young active citizens aged 18 to 40 who are dedicated to creating positive change in their communities.” It is present in over 5,000 communities across more than 100 countries worldwide.

The annual search for Ten Outstanding Young Persons honors ten outstanding young persons under the age of 40 who create impact “whether through service, innovation, determination or revolutionary thinking.”

The awarding ceremonies took place on the evening of November 20, 2012, at The Grand Hotel, Taipei, Taiwan. It was attended by the TOYP honorees and their guests, as well as JCI World President Bertolt Daems, VIPs, and other members of JCI worldwide.

14 FEATURE

Christmas around

THE WORLD

Nobody does Christmas like the Pinoys do. But how do they celebrate when they’re in a home away from home? Excel V. Dyquiangco finds out.

Lea Millares-Sylvester (Germany) Lea has been living in Berlin, Germany since 2005. Working as a teacher at the Nelson Mandela School, she celebrates Christmas Day by exchanging presents with her family, going to Christmas mass on Sunday and cooking pancit and chicken.

As early as September, some houses and businesses are already decorated and some Christmas gifts are already bought. The nine-day Simbang Gabi is also not to be missed. The Filipinos are famous for having the longest Christmas celebration in world.

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But what about kababayans living all over the world?

Illustrado Magazine interviews Pinoys living in different parts of the globe. From Singapore to the Northern Marianas Islands, these people share what it's like to celebrate Christmas away from their families.

Germans normally regard Christmas Eve more important than Christmas Day. Martin Luther Jr. instituted that focus should be on Jesus Christ's birth and not on gifts received. Nonetheless, gift-giving is done on the 24th. Christmas day lunch is celebrated with goose, potato salad, weiner sausages, or pea or vegetable soup as food.

Afterwards, most Christmas decorations are removed, unlike in the Philippines where it is stays until January.

FEATURE 15

No matter where in the world you celebrate Christmas, the love and closeness of family remains to be the reason for the season.

Robert Encarnacion (Singapore) Robert has been working as a financial executive in Singapore for seven years. He said the country has all the same Western Christmas traditions the Philippines has such as gift giving, midnight mass, and Christmas carols.

This is also the time when shopping malls and other establishments offer promos and discounts to tourists and locals. Orchard Road and the Marina Bay also feature nice decorations from November to January.

However, as majority of the population are still Buddhists, he says Christmas is not as grand as in the Philippines.

Robert and his family celebrate Christmas the Pinoy way by having a Noche Buena of Philippine cuisine. They also celebrate holidays by calling their loved ones at home, through online tools such as Skype or Yahoo Messenger.

Micah de Guzman (Botswana) Micah has been working as an operations manager in Botswana for 16 months. In Botswana, Christmas means going back to home villages and spending holidays with family.

On Christmas day, each family slaughters a goat or cow and prepares several dishes from the meat. But they have no particular Christmas season dish like Christmas ham.

After attending morning mass, families share Christmas lunch, followed by games, singing, dancing and drinking until the wee hours of the morning. Gifts are exchanged on the 26th or “Boxing Day�, in reference to the boxes gifts are wrapped in.

Micah celebrates Christmas in Botswana by attending parties hosted by Filipino friends. These parties are usually held during the weekend. By 6 p.m. of December 24th, she calls her family and friends in Manila to greet them a Merry Christmas.

16 FEATURE

Allan Gurtiza (Spain) Allan has been working in Madrid, Spain as a structural engineer for more than six years now. Although the country is predominantly Catholic, Allan says Christmas season there is generally dry.

While Christmas decorations adorn the city, it is not as grand as in the Philippines.

There is no singing of Christmas carols, but reunions of Spanish families are common.

It's not common, however, for them to have their Noche Buena at midnight. Gift giving is done during the Three Kings (January 6) feast, the most jovial episode of the Christmas Season. Kids are treated to fun fare, colorful costumes are paraded, showcasing the three kings and other characters they can think of.

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Before, Allan celebrated Christmas with his Filipino office colleagues in one of their flats. This year, he won't celebrate Noche Buena at midnight since he wants his son, who is with him in Spain, not to sleep late.

Manny Cruz (Qatar)

Arab families shopping for Christmas decorations and clothing. He even saw one local man wearing a Santa's cap.

Celebrating Christmas in the Middle East is like an ordinary working day. Manny usually celebrates it with family and friends by having private Christmas parties in their own villas or flats after work.

This is to temporarily forget the boredom and homesickness. For him, there is no better place to celebrate Christmas than the Philippines, where the true spirit of Christmas lingers and is strongly felt.

Working as a sales manager of a consumer goods company, Manny and his wife consider Qatar as their second home since leaving Dubai during the peak of recession in 2010. Like other Middle Eastern countries, Christmas is never celebrated.

But because of the influx of expats from the West and other Christian countries, Arabs are slowly accepting Christmas traditions.

Ami Joy Danganan (Northern Marianas)

One only gets to play Christmas songs in the comfort of his home. Last Christmas, however, he was amazed to see many

For more than six years, Ami Joy has been working in Saipan, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands as a teacher.

Christmas there involves decorating houses

FEATURE 17

is the "Happy Bag." Stores place random items inside a sealed paper bag and sell it at a fixed price. Shoppers go crazy for these “happy bags” because its contents often have higher value than the price.

Since she lives in Tokyo, Giselle celebrates Christmas by having Noche Buena and going around to enjoy the illuminated places.

Jeremiah Reyes (Belgium) Jeremiah has been living in Belgium for two years now. As a PhD student, he says Christmas in this country is very much different.

Instead of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, they celebrate Sinter Klaas, who they say is different from Santa Claus.

and stores only in December. Probably the only similar Yuletide tradition between her host and home country is that both are big about being with family during the Christmas season.

She celebrates Christmas the Pinoy way by having Noche Buena, celebrating with family and friends, giving gifts, and going to church on Christmas Eve.

Giselle Grace Lim (Japan) Giselle is a graduate student in Japan.

Staying for a little more than two years

there, she says Christmas is usually the day couples profess love for each other or go out on romantic dates. She remembers during her first Christmas, she was amazed by the number of couples she saw at the shopping mall.

It's also a time for families - they celebrate it by eating a special Christmas cake, either ordered or homemade. However, it is not customary to have family reunions or big gatherings.

Christmas is also the season for shopping!

A special feature during Christmas season

People in Europe are also now much more secular. They barely make any reference to the original Jesus Christ. They give gifts, do shopping, and have parties, but with no religious significance. To the Filipinos like Jeremiah, the quieter festivities, sparse Christmas songs and limited decorations are noticeable.

For the last two Christmas, he just stayed home and watched his parents celebrate Noche Buena via Skype. He distinctly remembers declining several offers to Filipino Christmas parties, because he wanted to be with his family. But now he realizes that maybe he could have celebrated with them—albeit virtually--via Skype, and then go to at least one of the Christmas parties.

18 FEATURE

I WON’T BE HOME FOR

CHRISTMAS Excel V. Dyquiangco talks with those who occupations will keep them away from their families during the holiday season.

and endure the 9-hour shift. You’re lucky if those days fall on your assigned days off.”

Sad but true. There are many occupations right now that require employees to work even during the holiday season. Call center agents, seafarers, flight attendants and pilots are just some of the people who work nonstop when everyone is just celebrating – and in very high spirits – during Christmas Day. How do these people and their families then cope with each other’s absences?

What do they do when homesickness or loneliness settles in?

Kristine Odessa Policarpio – Parungao (Call Center Team Leader) 8 Years in Service

The first Christmas Kristine spent away from her family was in 2004, her first year as an employee. Because she was single back then and it was a new experience for

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For Kristine, the Christmas Eve is the most challenging day to report for work.

Imagine leaving your house in the middle of festivities, passing by empty roads or homes where you see merriment, envying people who are on vacation. “When I was promoted, I was able to spend one holiday out of office per year – either Christmas Off or New Year off,” she says. her, it was kind of exciting as she has never celebrated holidays without her relatives.

“Basically, call center employees would bring their “handas” from home and eat together during our breaks or go partying after their shifts,” she says. “You would see some logging on their phones to call or send messages to their loved ones or simply greet the people stationed near them. For us, holidays were just an ordinary working day. We simply shrug off that lonely feeling

“But this year will be totally different as I have my own family and with my son who just turned a year old. This would definitely be the most painful and tears would definitely flow. But at the end of the day, this is the profession that I chose. I marked the question: “Are you willing to work on holidays?” with a check upon my employment so I have no choice but to deal with it.”

FEATURE 19 Kristine says that what she would surely miss is to be able to greet, kiss and hug her family as the clock strikes 12 on Christmas Eve, but she remains optimistic, “But the holidays are just two out of the 365 days in a year. Some adjustments can always be made.”

Christian Mercado (Flight Steward / Cabin Crew) Philippine Airlines, 11 Years in Service December 20, 2008 is a date Christian can still remember clearly because not only would he be leaving for San Francisco, but he would also be leaving his family behind.

This trip he considers a blessing since he would only be gone for five days but still, the longing is evident in his heart. “It was really hard for me to leave since it was my daughter’s first Christmas and I wasn’t be able to spend it with her,” he says. “It was a little sad, but I know I can still spend a lot of time with my family even after Christmas.”

So when the airplane finally landed in the USA, he decided to shop for gifts for his family. Later, he called his family at home to wish them well. When it was time to go back to the Philippines, it was already Christmas Eve. Up in the air, he celebrated the holidays with his co-workers and the rest of the cabin crew by having “Noche Buena” meals in the galley. At the same time, he and the others exchanged gifts.

As the nature of his work dictates, Christian has had to sometimes spend holidays away

from his family. On some occasions, he has celebrated Christmas in another country with his friends.

“I am blessed that my wife and I have friends and relatives I can spend Christmas with while in the USA and Canada,” he says. “And I spend it the same way as I would here in the Philippines. Of course, things would even be much better if I am with my wife and my kids. We usually have a small gathering with our families, have dinner, and play game boards while waiting for Christmas so we can open our gifts!”

Does he have plans of shifting professions so he can spend time with his family during the holidays? “I love my job,” says Christian. “My wife was a former flight attendant and she understands. Most people work all week, with perhaps one or two days off over the weekend. Most receive one to two weeks of vacation per year. As a flight attendant, I have the ability to group my flights together in a given month, and have 1-2 weeks off every month! And that is in addition to my regular vacation time!”

Over the course of the one year, it was aboard a vessel where Doz spent his birthday, Christmas and other events – alone for the first time.

“Christmas just breezed through since I was working in operations on a tanker ship during that day,” he says. “No celebrations or decorations since everything is just critical; anything may happen. It was only when we were done with work and we started to set sail that we had the time to celebrate and decorate for both Christmas and New Year.” When he saw his fellow comrades getting ready to leave the ship, he wanted to just go home with them. At night when all was silent and the work was done, he read the letters and the slum book given to him by his family and friends.

“My mother gave me two devotional books during this season,” he says. “I also bought and brought several books. I just read and re-read it and surprised myself since I’m not a reader! But with the loneliness on board, there was nothing I could do but to engage in some form of leisure.”

His only form of communication with his family was purely through email – with a limit of 160 characters and which came in late since had to go through a satellite before reaching the respondents. His homesickness was relieved upon reaching the port; the he could call his family and greet them even though the holidays were already over.

Doz Rendon (Seafarer) 2 Years in Service

He admits that the first three months on the ship was really difficult but as time passed, he got used to the routine.

An on-the-job training during his third year in university prompted Doz to agree to being on board an international vessel for one year. He was gong to be traveling the course of Los Angeles, San Francisco, Ecuador, Chile, Panama Canal, Mexico and Seattle, Washington. When he learned of this work, he didn’t want to leave the country and his family since this was the first time he would be dispatched. They were all crying at the airport.

This year Doz is setting sail again, this time around the country of Venezuela.

He was hesitant at first when he learned of this journey since he would be spending Christmas away from his family again.

But when he thought of their needs, he dutifully and joyfully accepted the mission. He already knew how he was going to make his time onboard another fruitful year.

20 FEATURE

Teofilo Padilla (Rig Physician) 1 Year in Service Teofilo Padilla has been working as an offshore Rig Physician (an oil drilling doctor in the middle of the sea) in Saudi Arabia for a year now. He found his first Christmas in 2010 a whole new experience. “It's really difficult to be in the offshore rigs where work is nonstop,” he says. “Christmas and New Year holidays are split by two relieving offshore doctors.

One can get the Christmas holiday and the other, the New Year. Unfortunately that year I had to work for both holidays. I spent my Christmas on my rig and on the 28th of December, had to jump-ship to another rig to spend New Year there.”

He adds that the only way he coped with the loneliness of spending the holidays without his family was to keep the communication lines open. “Lucky enough, social networking is already available to keep myself in the loop with what’s happening at home,” he says. “Somehow, I'm updated online but the physical presence is different. Still, I was with my family in spirit.” Aside from his family, he misses preparing for Christmas in the Philippines. When decorations are already put up by September, he starts experimenting new recipes for the holidays. “I crave the native food, the fun, and the booze,” he says.

Unlike in the Philippines where the celebration starts as early as September and where Noche Buena hails the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas at work offshore is just another regular day. The celebration starts during lunchtime on Christmas Day. No alcoholic drinks; no lively Christmas program or anything like that. There’s plenty of food, though, and kababayans share jokes and eat together.

“It's a real sacrifice to work overseas,” he says.

“The loneliness that I feel especially during the holidays often overwhelms me. There really is no place like home.”

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22 GLOBAL BARRIO

Our First WHITE CHRISTMAS

Canadian correspondent Quay Evano on the beauty of experiencing snow for the first time and the importance of having a childlike mindset when you have a new place to call home.

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GLOBAL BARRIO 23

Our first white Christmas in Canada was very memorable – my two kids and I were in the hospital.

We were suffering from the flu for almost a week because of the cold weather, among other reasons, so my wife and I had to bring us all there for check-ups, tests and medications.

The snow and the super cold temperature in our new home of Calgary, took us by surprise. I guess our bodies needed more time to adjust to the cold weather after living in Dubai and traveling to different climates before settling in Calgary.

Over four months, we experienced the mind-boggling heat of the Middle East, the super humid tropical weather of the Philippines, the mild and nice cold weather of Vancouver, then the freezing temperatures of Calgary. Drastic and extreme temperatures in such a short span of time took its toll.

Adjustment – that’s what the life of an immigrant in Canada is all about.

You adjust as much as you can, to the extremely cold weather especially in some provinces in Canada like Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba where the temperatures could drop to -40 degrees Celsius. It can even go lower because of the so-called wind factor.

Layer and peel You turn up your heater at home to full blast and savor every moment you are indoors where it is warm. You equip your vehicles with winter tires for better traction on the road. You apply lip balm so your lips won’t get dry and crack. You learn about the phrase “layer and peel”, which means before going out, you put on thermal pants and long sleeves, layer them with more clothing, then top it all with a snow jacket, gloves and toque/bonet.

But once you are indoors again, you start peeling off most of what you are wearing.

They say in Calgary, you can have all four seasons in one day.

It is so true.

24 GLOBAL BARRIO

There’s a saying that goes, “you are never ready for the snow or winter”. In Calgary where we live, snow comes early, usually in October. After a few weeks and months, you adjust to it because winter lasts up to April, sometimes even May, so that’s around seven to eight months of snow. There are days in March where snow will fall but might melt the same or next day. It’s a guessing game to what the temperature and weather will be like. It might be 10 or -10 in one day, or it might snow, hail, rain or the sun will come out.

They say in Calgary, you can have all four seasons in one day. It is so true.

Starting with a “survival job” One big adjustment an immigrant or permanent resident goes through here is finding a job. Most, if not all, go through what they call the “Canadian experience” – taking on a start-up job like being a staff in Tim Horton’s, McDonalds and other retail stores. You take on a job that is totally different from your chosen field or career. In other words you end up having a “survival job”. You’d often hear stories of engineers working as cashiers or service crew, of doctors working as janitors and top-level managers from their country of origin working as sales trainees.

Alvin Manigo used to be a policeman in Davao in the Philippines, but found a job as a production worker in a meat processing plant in Brooks, Alberta.

Cesar (last name withheld) used to be a civil engineer in Manila is working as a product merchandiser while trying to get his engineering accreditations and board exams. Imam, a guy from Iran, used to work in Saudi Arabia and has a Master’s degree in Marketing, but the first job he got here was sorting out mail in a public library.

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GLOBAL BARRIO 25

I guess that’s what a new immigrant should be – childlike enough to take in everything with open arms; accepting and seeing everything that is happening, and learning from it.

26 GLOBAL BARRIO

I personally experienced this. The first job I had here was as a customer service associate for a clothing store. I folded clothes, greeted customers, stocked shoes.

It was a bit of a shock for me. Although I had previous experience working for a clothing company, I never had any experience being on the floor to greet customers and sell clothes.

But in Canada, everybody treats everybody equally. You may personally think that you are way above the job that you have or a certain job is way too low for you, but people don’t really care - as long as

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you have a job. The dignity of work is what is important here. Egos and pride get a beating, but you learn to adjust your mindset to align your cultural upbringing to the totally different norms and customs of this country.

But the so-called “Canadian experience” is a Catch-22 or like the chicken and egg paradox. Recruiters and Human Resource Managers will not hire you because you don’t have any Canadian experience so you take survival jobs or volunteer your time and talent to organizations to build up your “Canadian resume”. Giving back to

the community is very important aspect of the local culture here.

For Canadians, adjusting constantly is a way of life.

But all in all, seeing real snow fall for the first time was such an exhilarating experience. You really become like a child again. And I guess that’s what a new immigrant should be – childlike enough to take in everything with open arms; accepting and seeing everything that is happening, and taking it as a day by day learning experience.

28 PINOY TALENT-ON THE-JOB

It’s What I Do

PINOY TALENT

ON-THE- JOB

It’s all abput Filipino progress and diversity at the workplace

Mary Jane Coy Business Development Executive Al Hamra Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

Business development executive Mary Jane Coy has been working for real estate giant Ras Al Khaimah for seven years now. Originally hired as an executive secretary to the CEO of biggest ceramic manufacturing company in UAE from the Philippines, Mary Jane says she was not really keen on taking the job.

“I was halfhearted [in] coming here because I thought UAE is a man’s world and not a safe country, especially for women,” she says. Mary Jane adds that she did not like the idea of working in UAE, but believed that it was part of God’s plans for her.

Senior Project Manager New Doha International Airport, Qatar Eva Panels is a senior project manager for one of the top local companies in Doha.

Just in her second year in Qatar, she has already completed various fit-out and FF AND E works for the Oryx lounge, Doha airport, Hilton tower, Trader Vic’s restaurant, and QNCC.

Mary Jane encourages fellow Filipinos to never stop learning and never allow anyone to look down on them. She also emphasizes that Filipinos are hired because they are hardworking, dependable and able to multi-task; so it should be used an advantage. Make sure you make productive use of your time, she advises.

She also adds that Qatar is too small a country to have a bad reputation and burn bridges. One needs be reasonable, fair, and cool most of the time.

“Happiness is seeing the completion of your work, and knowing people stakeholders and clientele - appreciate what you have done,” she says.

But Eva says that even before a project is completed, there are lots of obstacles that

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“I enjoy the great exposure to crossfunctional areas within the company and dealing with different types of clients from all over the globe. Although, it wasn’t easy at first. Moving to this part of the world, living and working here in a successful manner definitely has been one of the biggest challenges in my life. My secret – hard work and faith in God,” she says.

need to be passed through. These include arguments and losing tempers with colleagues during site meetings. But she says, that at the end of the day, a solution that will benefit everyone is agreed upon.

“It is a give and take situation on site.”

Eva Panels

Despite being in a predominantly male industry, Eva says she is happy with her job, finding solutions to challenging problems like unavailability of materials and proposing alternatives that are technically sound and cost-effective.

Mary Jane now focuses on selling and leasing the more than 5,000 properties in Al Hamra Village and Bab Al Bahr.

Eva believes that success is brought about by knowledge, which can be acquired quickly through education or tediously with experience. “To be able to succeed as a lady project manager, you need to empower yourself with knowledge, charm, wisdom, and a lot of common sense. If you are empowered with said points, you can overcome any language, gender, religion, or even race barrier that there is in life.”

30 SPIRITUALITY

It's that time of the year

TO BE A GIVER

By BO SANCHEZ

When I was a teenager preaching in small prayer groups all over the country, I'd see this woman sneak into the room, carrying a tape recorder inside a white plastic bag over her shoulder. And like clockwork, before I stepped down the pulpit, she'd sneak out and leave quietly, vanishing into thin air.

This woman would be present in every single talk.

I can only imagine the lunacy of this woman. If she wasn't listening to me live, she was listening to me on tape.

So naturally, when I’d go home, I’d knock on my mother's door and say, "Mom, how many times do I have to tell you, stop doing that! You embarrass me!"

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My mother would open the door with an innocent look that could win an Oscar and ask, "Huh? What are you talking about?"

But behind her, I could already hear my voice being played from her recorder.

"Mom, you're getting too proud," I said, "and that's pride just the same. Look at your room. It's a national museum of my talks, my articles, my photos…"

Mom said, "Bo, don't you know that God has given mothers an exception to that rule? Mothers can be very proud of their children."

"Where did you read that? Vatican III?" "Go away now. I'm busy," she said.

No doubt about it. My Mother is the Founder, Chairman of the Board, and Chief Executive Officer of Bo's Fans Club

SPIRITUALITY 31

"As a child," my friend said, "my mother gave me away to her older sister. Like I was a puppy." Most of these people, now adults, still wonder why they were given away.

My friend, if your parents weren't givers, go to God. God is the greatest giver.

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son.

International. She continued to be so in her early 80s.

There was a time when every Sunday, I preached three times at the Feast: 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 1 p.m. She attended all three sessions and listened to me preach every single time. Not content with that, before leaving the house on Sunday, she'll first watch me preach at six in the morning on TV5.

Mom loves me. No doubt about it.

I also remember one thing about her‌

Mothers Are Givers

I love my Mom. I really do.

But I've resigned myself to this undeniable fact-that I'll never love my mother more then she loves me. It's impossible. She loves me so much. I am who I am today because of that love.

I believe most Mothers are givers.

When they're not, bad things happen.

Why Many People Have Problems I thought all mothers and fathers are givers. Not true.

We were a big family. Six kids. And whenever there was a birthday or some other special event, we'd always have fried chicken.

In my 30 years of ministry, I've met people who have so much emotional baggage, so much hurt and violence in their heart, that they've made terrible choices in life.

Like all kids, we would fight for the "drumstick".

And through the years, I've found out one common thing among most of them: Their parents weren't givers. They were takers.

All those years growing up, I always thought Mom's favorite part was the neck.

Because every time we had fried chicken, she chose it. Later on, I realized she chose that piece because no one wanted it.

Why? Because my mother was a giver.

I guess most mothers are givers. They'd rather starve as long as their kids are able to eat.

Their mothers or fathers were selfish people-thinking only of themselves, shouting at their kids, beating them up, or abandoning them all together. When these children became adults, they made terrible choices in life, because they were so desperate for love.

Sometimes, the problem wasn't selfishness.

Just ignorance.

Yes, God is the Founder, Chairman of the Board, and Chief Executive Officer of your Fans Club International. He watches every step you make, listens to every word you say. He loves you so much.

And He wants you to be a giver too.

The Lifestyle of Giving Do you want to receive anything? More joy? More wisdom? More friends? More money?

Here's what you do: Give away that exact same thing that you want to receive.

Because that's how the universe works.

Take the case of wisdom.

I give wisdom to people. I've written some 20 books so far.

But between the author and the reader, who gains more wisdom? The reader reads the book once. But the author rewrites his book ten times. Guess who remembers the truths more? Yes, I give wisdom. But I gain ten times the wisdom I give away.

Oh, I have one more story. The Greatest Story Ever Told about Giving. But, hey, you know the story already. You know, when God gave His only begotten Son to us. Yes, it's the Christmas Story.

Merry Christmas Giving!

May your dreams come true!

32 FEATURE

FILIPINO HUMANITARIANISM:

Spreading good will is a daily practice Christmas may be celebrated for an excessively long time, but for Filipinos who work in humanitarian agencies around the globe, the season of giving and peace is all year around. For the December issue of Illustrado, Nephele Kirong looks at the real accounts of playing St. Nicholas from Delia Barcelona and Patrick Almeida.

Patrick Almeida: Physician to the conflict areas Dr. Patrick Almeida, 54, is a medical coordinator for Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders or MSF) Operational Center Amsterdam, a nongovernmental organization that provides humanitarian-aid in war-torn regions and developing countries wrought with disease.

Patrick shares that a book influenced him to join MSF. While he was in New York City for his pediatric residency, he chanced upon “The Coming Plague” by Laurie Garrett.

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The idea of going to exotic places and becoming a “disease detective” captivated him so much that it prompted him to shift to Public Health and apply for a Preventive Medicine residency in Buffalo, New York.

After completing his residency, he applied as volunteer in MSF, while his wife was still completing the same residency program.

Six months after his application, he was sent to Myanmar for his first mission.

During his residency, he read about a doctor, working for MSF, who was named one of Time Magazine’s persons of the decade. “I was immediately fascinated by this idea of treating patients where it was needed the most like in natural disasters and conflict areas. It was an opportunity to really make a difference as a doctor.”

“So I guess, I never really prepared for this job. The paths I chose in life led me to what I do now,” he says.

And it really seems like a nice path to choose.

FEATURE 33

Delia Barcelona with UN Chief Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon

Providing assistance in dire circumstances Almeida shares that he once had a fiveyear-old patient, when he was still working as a medical doctor in his first mission in Myanmar. The boy was diagnosed with cerebral malaria and he became comatose.

His chance for survival was very slim.

“We had to improvise a naso-gastric tube out of IV tubing, and mixed sugar, milk, and oil and fed him through the tube. But on the fifth day, I was checking his pupils and I saw a slight response; later that day he regained consciousness,” he narrates.

The doctor says he was very happy with what happened, the boy was discharged a few days after, still unable to talk and walk.

organization. “I don’t treat patients directly anymore. My patient now is not an individual, but a population.”

TB (MDR-TB), mental health, emergency obstetrics, while running a small hospital” all at the same time.

Performing a more managerial role than a direct clinical one, the Filipino doctor says he plans and implements medical programs that are effective for their most vulnerable beneficiaries.

But he admits that he will have to give up his career in MSF someday.

According to him, it’s also part of his job to ensure the quality of the medical care they provide and that it adheres to medical ethics.

But while it is indeed a heartwarming job to extend aid to those who need it, he notes that is a very stressful job, especially with the senior position he has. “The workload is tremendous and pushes people to the limit. Often it is left on individuals to set and acknowledge their limit and cope with daily stresses.”

But it wasn’t really a source of worry. A few months after, Almeida returned to the village and was given a chicken meal by a mother-son duo. It was the same boy he treated. He had fully recovered and it almost seemed like nothing happened.

Humanitarian work is somewhat infectious

Currently assigned in Myanmar again, Patrick stresses that his work as a medical coordinator is different from being a medical doctor, which was his first responsibility upon joining the

Almeida says he has become sort of “addicted” to MSF. He asks where else could he find a job where he could “manage and implement various medical programs such as primary health care, HIV/AIDS, TB, Multiple drug-resistant

He says he wants to be with his family - a wife, a daughter and a son, whom he talks to everyday through Skype. Almeida says he comes home every three months too.

“So while I love my work, family comes first and it will be that way in the very near future.”

Delia Barcelona: Educator to high-powered executive Delia Barcelona, 60, had just finished her term as dean of the University of the Philippines Diliman - College of Mass Communication in 1994 when she accepted the position of technical advisor in communication for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

The UNFPA aims for a “world where every pregnancy is wanted, every birth is safe, every young person’s potential is fulfilled,” says Delia.

She was first offered the post in 1991 during

34 FEATURE

Now, the former dean is the Chief of the Office of the Executive Director - UNFPA. She provides strategic policy advice to the executive director and the senior management.

“Being the Chief of the Executive Office, I serve as the ‘hub’ for coordination, communication, oversight, and facilitation of many issues that go to and from the Executive Director,” she says.

It is a very demanding job filled with meetings and paperwork, and Delia makes sure that she unwinds during the weekend. Her weekend activities include spending time with her grandson, taking a swim for at least an hour and a half, or walking her daughter’s dog, Chuleta. She also tries to catch up with sleep and her errands.

Despite the workload, Barcelona’s work is not without recognition. a consultancy project with the UNFPA for a conference in Bangkok, but since she was just starting her deanship, she wasn’t keen on accepting it. Nonetheless, Barcelona was asked when her term would end.

“Believe it or not, I got a call from UNFPA’s Division of Human Resources in March 1994 following up on my availability for an interview. I availed of the three day opportunity to be interviewed in New York,” she says.

Since then, Barcelona has assumed different roles and positions in the organization, including a stint as deputy regional director for Arab states.

She shares that during that assignment, she experienced the Arab spring, the revolution that started during the last week of January 2011 in Egypt and which spread to the rest of the Arab world.

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“At the height of the revolution, when we lost connection with the world, when the media was halted by the then Egyptian administration, I was horrified, as I was away from family. On the fourth day, all international staff were evacuated out of Egypt, to their headquarters, taking a chartered plane rather than a commercial flight,” she adds.

Fortunately for her, the evacuation point was New York, where her family was.

Barcelona says the evacuation allowed her to spend a full month with her family, before she went back to Egypt at the end of February.

“So all these past experiences, at global level in headquarters, at the country level when I was Representative, and then when I was in a Regional Office, and now back to headquarters, have all been instrumental in shaping my professional development in the UN, and enabled me to perform my various responsibilities,” she adds.

She accompanied her boss to the Philippines last May and during their courtesy visit to President Aquino, the president acknowledged that she was a Filipino and a chief of staff of one UN organization; which made her extremely proud of her job.

Moreover, she shares that the official visit included a flight to Cagayan de Oro to visit a rehabilition center for flood victims.

“I was also very touched to be able to reach out to our affected kababayans.”

Delia will be retiring 2014, and she looks forward to it. She says she has already had two fulfilling careers, first with UP and then with UN. “By the time I retire, I would have done a good 40 years of my life doing what I enjoy – mentoring others as I did in academia, and serving people as an international civil servant of the UN,” says Delia.

36 FEATURE

BEAUTY, BRAINS AND BENEVOLENCE By: Anna Oposa

The typical bottom line of any business is to make profit. In the recent years, the term “triple bottom line” was coined to add people and planet to bring to light that businesses must have a purpose other than to make money.

In this year’s “Beauty, Brains, and Benevolence,” Anna Oposa features three women who have added another bottom line: positive influence.

Be inspired by the stories of social entrepreneurs and nation builders Reese Fernandez-Ruiz, Lynn Pinugu, and Jeannie Javelosa.

Reese Fernandez-Ruiz: The Hope Weaver At 27-years-old, Reese Fernandez-Ruiz seems to have swept every distinction for social entrepreneurs in her generation, among them Rolex Young Laureate, The

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Outstanding Women in Nation’s Service, and most recently, Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum.

Those who have the privilege to know Reese can attest that, her medals aren’t really made of gold, but of “sweat, determination, and a hard-to-find alloy called guts.”

Reese is the founding partner, CEO, and President of Rags2Riches (R2R), a revolutionary eco-ethical social enterprise that transforms scrap materials to high-end designer lifestyle products.

The story of R2R began in 2007. Reese had just graduated from Ateneo with a degree

in Management, on scholarship. She was teaching children as a volunteer for Gawad Kalinga when she and other like-minded young professionals noticed that women in Payatas, one of the country’s largest dumpsites, were rummaging through mountains of trash to find scrap fabric.

Reese and her friends, who were to become the founding members of R2R, discovered that the women were using the materials to weave rugs to bring income for their families. Because the middlemen took control of the industry, the women were earning pennies—literally.

FEATURE 37 “Lynn” Pinugu, 27, recalls. “I believe that all the opportunities I’ve had access to so far are because somebody decided to invest in my potential. Because of this, I feel that it is my personal mission to provide educational opportunities to children from impoverished communities,” says the co-founder of Mano Amiga Academy, a school that aims to give underprivileged children access to education at par with the best schools in the world.

Lynn first encountered Mano Amiga in Guanajuato when she was living in Mexico as a youth missionary. She was in awe that the children paid a symbolic tuition for the globally competitive education and facilities.

The founding members of R2R invited top Filipino fashion designers Rajo Laurel, Oliver Tolentino, Oliva D’Aboville, and Amina Aranaz-Alunan to participate in the design process. By doing so, R2R expanded the potential of the materials and the target market. The scrap cloths were turned into handbags, accessories, and yoga mat carriers.

To date, the company has made good use of about 800 tons of scrap materials that would otherwise be accumulating space that dumpsites don’t have. They also use scrap cloth from garment factories.

Under Reese’s servant leadership, R2R also has the Quality of Life Program that provides the employees a slew of benefits in health, education, and housing.

“Our end goal is to lift Filipino artisans out of poverty and rebuild the Philippines,” says Reese. “I can see R2R in the near future as a Filipino Global Lifestyle Brand that represents the Philippines in the best way possible. We are a country of greatness, innovation, and love for one another. R2R will be honored to show these values to the world.”

Reese’s passion for service can be traced to her roots as the daughter of a missionary.

“My mom and I practically lived around churches when I was young,” she recounts.

“Because of her work, I was exposed to the realities of the world very early. I never saw levels in society. I just saw, knew, and befriended people, no matter who they are and what they have or do not have.”

At 23 years old, Lynn began the footwork and groundwork for Mano Amiga in the country: “All we had [then] was a PowerPoint presentation showing the success of Mano Amiga in Mexico. It was shot down by a lot of people. They doubted how we would achieve the same results and maintain the quality of the school given the limited resources that we had.”

She continues, “But there were many who took the leap of faith and invested in the project.”

From 35 students in preschool, Mano Amiga in Taguig now has 105 students from preschool to third grade. The students are given enrichment classes such as ballet lessons, cooking workshops, and football clinics.

“I don’t think I can ever live my life without regard for others or without thinking about solutions to poverty,” she muses.

R2R has trained over 550 members in over 20 communities across the nation. The company just launched the Aranaz Holiday Collection of handbags and accessories, and will soon unveil the partnership with internationally acclaimed Cebuano designer Kenneth Cobonpue.

“Before leaving, I told the principal that if they ever decide to put up Mano Amiga in the Philippines, they should give me a call. I was half kidding,” Lynn remembers.

“And she did!”

In addition to being a school, it is also a community center that offers development programs in values formation, parenting, and after-school programs for other youth in the area.

Lynn Pinugu: The Indefatigable Educator “My mom lost her job when I was in college, so I applied for an academic scholarship to help my family,” Eleanor

Lynn admits that, like any other NGO, the usual challenges stem from “raising funds and finding the best way to deliver high quality education while managing limited resources.”

38 FEATURE The flagship store has expanded into ECHOmarket and ECHOcafé, which offer locally grown and organic agricultural products such as vegetables and coffee. “[The tri-concept] makes the sustainable lifestyle reachable to the general public,” she adds.

An especially difficult period came when typhoon Ondoy ravaged Metro Manila in 2009. Since the community wasn’t affected by the storm, it moved lower in the list of beneficiaries.

Lynn chose to see the crisis as an opportunity. She co-founded Bistro 3846, a cafeteria that serves healthy, ageappropriate meals developed by Cordon Bleu graduate chef Amelia Alba in Everest Academy International School, also in Taguig.

To provide employment opportunities, the moms of Mano Amiga students were then trained to run the cafeteria. “One hundred percent of Bistro’s profit goes to Mano Amiga’s scholarship fund,” Lynn notes with pride.

With other youth leaders, Lynn’s other major projects are to build 200 libraries in the Philippines by 2020, and to bring health centers in public schools.

“I can say with certainty that my vocation lies in education,” Lynn says.

“The equalizing promise of education cannot be fulfilled if [its] quality is a luxury only available for the privileged few. I’m working toward a future where high quality education is accessible to all children, no matter what their socioeconomic background is.”

Jeannie Javelosa: The Artist with Purpose Jeannie Javelosa is fresh from European trip. She had speaking engagements at the European Professional Business Network and World Entrepreneur Forum. In Paris, she attended the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards to represent ECHOstore, a retail store that sells eco-friendly and fair-trade products made by marginalized communities and women’s groups in the Philippines.

“We didn’t win the laureate,” says Jeannie.

She didn’t seem disappointed. For a 4-yearold enterprise to have been chosen as a finalist out of 1,000 entries from AsiaPacific was itself “an achievement,” she declares.

The name of ECHOstore sums up its vision: Environment, Community, Hope, and Organization. Jeannie and her two friends Chit Juan and Reena Francisco co-founded ECHOstore in their midlives to create a space for natural and organic products of communities, small farmers, and artisans. Within three months of opening their flagship store in Serendra, Taguig, they won a business concept competition, gained interest from the media, and captured the hearts and wallets of a very eager market that was waiting for a one-stop shop of green products.

The accomplishments kept coming.

In 2011, ECHOstore marketed 3,400 products from 82 groups and 131 microentrepreneurs. In 2012, ECHOstore made its way to the international market by being the souvenir store of the Philippine Pavilion in the World Expo in Yeosu, Korea.

“We like thinking of new concepts and trying them out,” Jeannie shares.

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Aside from passion for sustainability, Jeannie’s heart lies in arts and culture. She is an author, multi-awarded artist, and Mt. Banahaw advocate. She is also the curator of the Yuchengco Museum, Director of Creative Strategies of EON Stakeholder Relations Firm, columnist for Philippine Star, and yoga teacher.

She brings these different fields into ECHOstore and ECHOsi, the non-profit arm that is tasked to source, up-value, and identify more products for ECHOstore which she now heads.

As President of ECHOsi, her role is to “bring in development funds, and create and integrate nationwide programs for our communities while working alongside governments, funding groups, designers, and product developers,” she describes. “The challenge is to help all our communities [improve] their products, and remain sustainable as enterprises, so they can continue giving more ECHOstore products. We, in turn, try to open up even more markets for them.”

“Culture and sustainability—it is what I am about, both on a personal and professional level,” Jeannie ethuses. “It seems that my personal and professional goals have merged; everything I am doing in my professional life is personal.”

She believes, “Development work is where I can challenge and inspire people to become the best they can be and do the best they can.”

Reese, Lynn, and Jeannie are beauty, brains, and benevolence personified.

Through the work that they do, one can’t help but feel that it’s such an exciting time to be alive, and more so, an exciting time to be a Filipino.

40 ADVERTORIAL Mishel Viado-Paguio, Joel E. Paguio, COO & Founder of NAOMI, Nero and Naomi Paguio

Liali extends affordable Mirage Diamond Rings

Lifestyle Jewelry achieves ISO Certification Lifestyle Fine Jewelry, the largest Chineseowned jewelry chain store in the Middle East, has successfully achieved ISO 9001: 2008 Certification for its entire store across United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. The successful ISO certification was accredited

by TUV NORD, an international certification body.

ISO 9001:2008 quality standard is the most widely recognized and established quality management system in the world.

The successful completion of the rigorous testing processes required for certification exemplifies Lifestyle Fine Jewelry’s continued commitment to provide the highest standard of service to its customers.

Wholly owned by Aaron Shum Jewelry Group, with over 35 outlets in the Middle East, it offers worldwide luxury, affordable, branded jewelry and watches. It embraces innovative, unique and fashionable designs shifting away from traditional un-branded pieces to discerning taste of its customers.

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Naomi opens new cozier space Previously located at the bridge connecting Mega A and B, Naomi Jewelry transferred to a much cozier space at the end of 2nd floor building B, giving its customers privacy and more comfortable aura to choose their jewelry. The grand opening last November was graced by beauty queen and talk show host , Daisy Reyes, celebrity, fashion designer and dance diva, Regine Tolentino, Host of TV5’s ‘Ang Latest’-Ms. Dollyann Carvahal and Icee Mendoza, model /actress, Valerie Bondoc and representative of Mark Jimenez.

After the ribbon cutting, Naomi Jewelry showcased their jewelry with ambassadors wearing NX couture gowns.

During the event, there was also a silent auction of Naomi World Vision pendants, in line with their partnership with World Vision.

Naomi Pearl Necklaces were given away to those who attended the event and a more luxurious necklace was gifted to clients who bought that day.

Leading jewelry retailer Liali tempts diamond lovers by extending its luxurious and affordable range of Mirage diamond rings with two new styles – the touch band and the taper band.

The touch band ring is a set of two rings to be worn together for that bold look that makes every moment a statement. One of the rings in this set highlights the beauty of a single solitaire diamond, accented by individually matched stones and a decorated band. The other ring features three sparkling rows of diamond brilliants that accentuate the overall width of ring.

The tapered band, on the other hand, has a floral motif in the center and is offered in four variations. Discover the magic of Liali’s Mirage Tapered rings available now at all Liali stores in UAE.

NOW OPEN IN RAS AL KHAIMAH Al Hamra Gate 4, Marina Road, Al Jazzira, Al Hamra Tel No: (07) 243 7660 Fax: (07) 243 7661

42 NEWS

Developing countries to receive over $400 billion in remittances in 2012, says World Bank report WASHINGTON, November 20, 2012 – Remittance flows to the developing world are expected to exceed earlier estimates and total $406 billion this year, an increase of 6.5 percent over the previous year, according to a new World Bank brief on global migration and remittances.

Remittances to developing countries are projected to grow by 7.9 percent in 2013, 10.1 percent in 2014 and 10.7 percent in 2015 to reach $534 billion in 2015.

Worldwide remittances, including those to high-income countries, are expected to total $534 billion in 2012, and projected to grow to $685 billion in 2015, according to the latest issue of the Bank’s Migration and Development Brief, released today.

However, despite the growth in remittance flows overall to developing countries, the continuing global economic crisis is dampening remittance flows to some regions, with Europe and Central Asia and Sub- Saharan Africa especially affected, while South Asia and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) are expected to fare much better than previously estimated.

The top recipients of officially recorded remittances for 2012 are India ($70 billion), China ($66 billion), the Philippines and Mexico ($24 billion each), and Nigeria ($21 billion). Other large recipients include Egypt, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Lebanon.

As a percentage of GDP, the top recipients of remittances, in 2011, were Tajikistan (47 percent), Liberia (31 percent), Kyrgyz Republic (29 percent), Lesotho (27 percent), Moldova (23 percent), Nepal (22 percent), and Samoa (21 percent).

“Although migrant workers are, to a large extent, adversely affected by the slow growth in the global economy, remittance volumes

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have remained remarkably resilient, providing a vital lifeline to not only poor families but a steady and reliable source of foreign currency in many poor remittances recipient countries,” said Hans Timmer, Director of the Bank’s Development Prospects Group.

Regions and countries with large numbers of migrants in oil exporting countries continue to see robust growth in inward remittance flows, compared with those whose migrant workers are largely concentrated in the advanced economies, especially Western Europe.

Thus, South Asia, MENA and East Asia and Pacific regions, with large numbers of workers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, are seeing better-thanexpected growth in remittances. For South Asia, remittances in 2012 are expected to total $109 billion, an increase of 12.5 percent over 2011; East Asia and Pacific region, is estimated to attract $114 billion, an increase of 7.2 percent over 2011; while MENA is expected to receive $47 billion, an increase of 8.4 percent over the previous year.

Remittances to Latin America and the Caribbean are supported by a recovering economy and an improving labor market in the United States but moderated by a weak European economy. The region will, thus, see a modest growth of 2.9 percent in 2012, totaling an estimated $64 billion.

In contrast, remittances are expected to remain flat to Europe and Central Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa regions, mainly because of the economic contractions in high-income European countries. Remittance flows to Europe and Central Asia are estimated at a virtually unchanged $41 billion and $31 billion to Sub-Saharan Africa this year, although both regions are projected to make a robust recovery in remittance flows in 2013.

“Migrant workers are displaying tremendous

resilience in the face of the continuing economic crisis in advanced countries,” said Dilip Ratha, Manager of the Bank’s Migration and Remittances Unit and lead author of the Migration and Development Brief. “Their agility in finding alternate employment and cutting down on personal expenses has prevented large scale return to their home countries.”

Going forward, the Bank expects continued growth in remittance flows to all regions of the world, although persistent unemployment in Europe and hardening attitudes towards migrant workers in some places present serious downside risks.

“The global community has made progress in three out of four areas of the global remittances agenda – data, remittance costs, and leveraging remittances for capital market access for countries. Progress, however, has been slow in the area of linking remittances to financial access for the poor. There is great potential for developing remittance-linked micro-saving and micro-insurance schemes and for small and medium enterprise (SME) financing,” said Ratha.

As a key player in the migration and remittances arena, the World Bank is working on a new initiative, the Global Knowledge Partnership on Migration and Development (KNOMAD), which is aimed at facilitating multidisciplinary debate and discussion on migration issues, developing policy options, and assisting sending and receiving countries implement pilot policies.

The Bank also continues to make considerable strides in developing financing instruments for leveraging migration and remittances for national development purposes. Diaspora bonds can be a powerful financial instrument for mobilizing diaspora savings to finance specific public and private sector projects, as well as to help improve the debt profile of the destination country. The Bank has also set up a Diaspora Bond Task Force to provide technical assistance to countries interested in implementing diaspora bonds for financing development projects.

KABUHAYAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP 43

BATTER UP:

From Banker to Homebaker

By Bernadette Reyes

The decadent chocolate cake would soon become one of her bestsellers along with her caramel cupcakes, red velvet cupcakes and revel bars. Recently, Jenny started making ensaymada, which is fast becoming a favorite among her regular customers.

In Christmas of 2008, Jenny Que gave away her home-baked cookies to family and friends as presents. Tucked in the neat little cookie package was her business card and high hopes of becoming a successful entrepreneur. Christmas passed but Santa wasn’t able to grant Jenny’s wish. “Nobody called me back,” Jenny says. “I thought my cookies were great,” she adds.

Soon Jenny learned her cookies, while delicious, were uneven and inconsistent.

“Some cookies were under baked, others were too moist,” she says. Instead of giving up, Jenny enrolled at the Heny Sison Culinary School to gain skills and experience. While she spent a fortune to better her craft, she hardly made progress at the onset of the course. “I was disheartened because most of my contemporaries already knew how to bake.”

During graduation however, Jenny received the Silverspoon Award from Chef Heny. The award is given to the student who possesses the most potential to excel.

“When they gave me the award, it inspired me to carry on with my dreams,” Jenny shares.

In December of 2009, Jenny again gave away her pastries as giveaways. She later got her first job order – a decadent chocolate cake. “It was the first product made out of my kitchen that was sold,” she says, still beaming with pride.

Facebook is Jenny’s only marketing tool.

She regularly updates her page with new product photos and keeps in touch with her clients. “It helps to remind them that you are around because sometimes people forget about your products.”

Jenny also has regular customers who then refer her to new clients, which helps her home-based business grow.

While Christmas is the peak season for a business like hers, homebakers can keep a steady stream of income flowing in all year-round. “There are always occasions to celebrate. On weekends, I usually get orders for celebration cakes like debuts, birthdays and anniversaries,” she shares.

back-up plan. “It was so stressful. Even if the pay was good, it wasn’t worth it,” Jenny says of her leap of faith.

“It’s never too late to do what you really want to do but consider if it’s feasible.

Study the business you want to undertake,” she advises.

Someday Jenny wants to see set up her own store where she could sell her pastries and much of today, is spent saving up for her dream to come into fruition. She also keeps on developing new products and hopes to have a full line of pastries.

Jenny is unsure about when that day would come but one thing she’s sure of is that she didn’t regret leaving her 9 to 5 job in the bank. “I don’t regret it at all. I love what I do and that’s what’s important.” The fact that she earns more than enough while doing what she loves most is well, the icing on her evidently delicious cake.

By now, Jenny has recovered bulk of her capital but some of the equipment she purchased is no longer useful. “Some purchases I regret now because I don’t need them at all,” Jenny laments. She advised aspiring homebakers to buy only the essentials.

Jenny spent PHP100,000 to enroll in a culinary school. Over the years, she spent another PHP100,000 for equipment and other baking essentials. Today, she said PHP250,000 may be required to start a home-based baking business.

For some the starting capital required for a home-based business such as Jenny’s maybe too risky. When Jenny tendered her resignation in 2009, she didn’t have a

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44 KABUHAYAN MONEY

How do you find a

By Francisco J. Colayco

FINANCIAL PLANNER? The question “how do you find a financial planner and what questions should I ask him/her to gauge competency?” is precisely what I cover in Chapter 5 of my book “Making Your Money Work.” As in any decision to invest and grow

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your savings, it is important to know exactly where you are.

You need to have your Statement of Assets and Liabilities (SAL) and your Personal Financial Plan. The main question is: “how much are you worth today?”

KABUHAHAN MONEY 45

The road to financial freedom requires that you first know the following: • What assets and other resources you have now;

Financial planners who provide personal financial planning and management services to an individual would charge a fee because that is, in effect, their job. Again, the fee is usually based on the value of the portfolio being managed.

• How much debt and other obligations you have now; • What you are financially worth (your net worth); • How much income you are generating now; • How much you are spending now; and • How much you need to spend for the kind of lifestyle you choose to live?

You can make your own SAL and Personal Income-Expense Statement (PIES) using my other books, even with just the information in Chapter 7 of “Wealth Within Your Reach”. For those who want to have a more detailed SAL and PIES, you can learn how to do it with the Pera Palaguin Workbook (“Preparing Your Personal Financial Statements”).

As the year 2012 ends, this is an ideal time to make your SAL and PIES for 2013.

A financial planner is someone who can give you advice on matters related to saving, investing, taxes, insurance, household money management, real property management and retirement. In fact, a financial planner should be able to help you make your SAL, PIES and financial plan.

However, in the Philippines, financial planners are usually connected with financial institutions that promote their own products. They earn their living by selling the products for which they get a commission. Naturally, these planners would prefer individuals with high net worth. Working the same number of hours/days, they have a better chance of selling a high value product that would give them a higher commission.

But, here is the irony of it all.

Anyone who takes a financial planner still needs to first understand the basic financial principles, unless the financial planner will be patient enough to include the teaching process in his services.

A planner should be able to help you do the following: • Prepare your Statement of Assets and Liabilities; • Make a budget so that you live only within your chosen lifestyle and follow the principle of: Income - Savings = Expenses • Allocate your assets to ensure a diverse investment portfolio;

• Ensure that you have sufficient insurance for yourself, your family and your properties; • Keep your tax payments at the lowest cost within the law; • Plan for your children’s education and your retirement; • Help you prepare legal documents to protect your financial interests while you are living; and • Prepare a plan for your heirs in the event of your demise.

• An ordinary income earner may have no immediate need for a formal financial planner. Either the fees of the planner will not be affordable or the planner may not be interested to manage too small a portfolio.

But, here is the irony of it all. Anyone who takes a financial planner still needs to first understand the basic financial principles, unless the financial planner will be patient enough to include the teaching process in his services. If you have a financial planner that sells products, you need to make your own analysis of the products to make a good decision on which product to purchase. Although you can choose to fully depend on your financial planner, perhaps, it is not a good idea.

Very basic and easy to understand financial literacy is what you will learn in my books, Wealth Within Your Reach, Making Your Money Work and the Pera Palaguin Workbook. I tried to make the information as simple as possible. I believe that after studying, not just reading, these books, you might have a better basis for understanding the advice from accountants, bankers, lawyers and insurance agents. You can more confidently ask them for their opinions on your financial situation and which option they think is best for you.

For more information, visit www.colaycofoundation.com.

46 ILLUSTRADO SCRAPBOOK A platform for budding Filipino creative talent

Florante M. Gapalate

Florante M. Galapate, also known as Litratista in the industry of photography, hails from Pangasinan Province.

A civil engineer specializing in structure by profession, he is currently working in an international engineering consulting firm.

His adventure in photography all began in 2008, when he visited a mall holding a sale and purchased her first DSLR Nikon D80. With “zero” knowledge in photography, he enrolled and completed a Basic Photography Course in 2010 at the Lightform and Advance Photography Workshop with a well-known Filipino professional photographer here in Dubai.

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He was encouraged further to develop his hobby after his images were awarded by Lightform with the director’s choice and sharp shooter awards. He also placed second in the 9th Environmental Awareness International Photo competition.

After that, he still pursued to enhance his skills by attending various photography workshops in Dubai.

Florante says he loves shooting landscape, people showing a variety of emotions and his family. He now finds himself a serious hobbyist and still in the process of learning, because he believes that photography is a never-ending story.

A platform for budding Filipino creative talent

Richard Martin

Richard Martin, is a Manila-born hobbyist, who is currently based in Bahrain and working for WS Atkins under the Landscape department.

He is a member of Middle East Shutter Squad (MESS), a group of hobbyist and

professional photographers.

His field of expertise in photography includes fashion, conceptual, glamour and life.

His wide range of experience also made him one of the trusted photographers by fashion designers in Bahrain.

Recently, Richard landed a spot among

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the cream of the crop Filipino artists and was featured as the third editor's pick in Best of Bahrain Book Vol. 2.

His enthusiasm in experimenting lights and post-processing has made him more eager to explore the boundless creativity that photography offers.

48 ADVERTORIAL

Splash launches Limited Edition Fashion Show Shoes Splash continues to diversify its creative offerings with the launch of a limited edition collection of shoes during its AW’12 Fashion Royale Show. The Limited Edition Fashion Show Shoes collection, targeted for both men and women, will inspire fashionistas everywhere to step-out-in-style.

With this, Splash has now become the onestop destination, so every wardrobe will now

be complete, from head to toe. Visit your nearest Splash store and grab a pair, fresh off the runway! portal, between mid-July and September.

The project was part of Part of Giordano Initiative For Talent (GIFT), a CSR programme developed by Giordano Middle East to support the local community.

UAE National Day Limited Edition Polos from Giordano Showing the national colors with pride, Giordano, one of the world’s leading international apparel retailers, is launching special limited edition polo shirts and t-shirts to commemorate and celebrate UAE National Day. The UAE polo shirts adapt a sporty look embroidered with the national flag and number 41, as commemoration of independence and the eventual unification of the seven emirates into one country. The

shirts are available in the UAE colors of red, white, green and black with bolder designs and more variety.

The limited edition national shirts along with Giordano’s regular range of merchandise can also be purchased online at www.giordanome.com and will be delivered direct to the customer’s door within 48 hours (United Arab Emirates only). Cash on delivery option is now available for this service.

Iconic bags ‘Most Admired Social Media Campaign’ Award for 2012 Fashion and lifestyle destination Iconic was awarded the ‘Most Admired Social Media Campaign’ for 2012 at the recently held Images RetailME Awards, which recognize best performing retailers and retail practices across the Middle East.

The brand’s winning campaign ‘Fashion for the Everyday Icon’ impressed the panel of judges, composed of industry experts, with

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its strategy and approach. Inclusive of a 360° marketing tactic on effective promotion through social media, the campaign gained maximum popularity and exposure, also finding fervor from fashion enthusiasts.

Iconic is currently present on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest.

The Facebook page generates much interest and beautifully marries the online initiatives

with the in-store activations. Also keeping ahead of times, the recently revamped website, www.theiconicstores.com promises to deliver the best virtual tour of the brand, showcasing what’s currently trending at Iconic for its young at heart customers.

50 FASHION PHOTOS BY PAELO PEDRAJAS STYLING AND PRODUCTION DESIGN BY CARLA VILLANUEVA MAKE-UP BY ANTON PATDU FOR MAC COSMETICS HAIR BY ARIES MANAL MODELED BY CORALEEN WADELL OF ELITE SHOT ON LOCATION AT THE DUALAN RESIDENCE, ANTIPOLO CITY

WOOD LAND NYMPH Tell me your secrets woodland nymph, speak of the hidden things.

Where do the sweetest berries grow along the well worn path?

On long summer nights in hot July, do the tall oaks whisper lullabies?

As winter weather chills the earth, who falls asleep first in their den?

Tell me sweet guardian of the woods, the secrets only you would know.

-Nan Roche, excerpts from “Woodland Secrets”

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FASHION 51 Nude sculptured lace gown by Cherry Veric; brown and gold cuff, Mother of Pearl with garnet roundels drop earrings by Naomi

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52 FASHION

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Nude sculptured lace gown by Cherry Veric; brown and gold cuff, Mother of Pearl with garnet roundels drop earrings by Naomi

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54 FASHION

White beaded butterfly sleeves by Renee Salud; black corset, stylists own; white beaded skirt by Fanny Serrano; white and gold chandelier earrings by Naomi

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FASHION 55

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56 FASHION Silver and white gown by Fanny Serrano; silver chandelier earrings by Firma; props and furniture by AC+632 and Firma

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FASHION 57

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58 FASHION

Nude and white gown by Cherry Veric; ancient shell with vintage cameo pendant, gold cuff and yellow citrine ring by Naomi; props and furniture by AC+632 and Firma

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FASHION 59

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60 FASHION Nude and white gown by Cherry Veric; ancient shell with vintage cameo pendant, gold cuff and yellow citrine ring by Naomi

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FASHION 61

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62 FASHION Beaded butterfly sleeves and red beaded skirt by Renee Salud; black corset, stylists own; Mother of Pearl with garnet roundels drop earrings by Naomi

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FASHION 63

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64 FASHION

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FASHION 65

White and gold gown by Cherry Veric; gold circle necklace, white and gold chandelier earrings and gold cuffs by Naomi; brass skull by AC+632

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66 FASHION Autumn printed skirt and scarf by Fanny Serrano; nude corset, stylists own; precious rock necklace by Fanny Serrano and brown and gold cuff by Naomi

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FASHION 67

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68 FASHION

Pink and gold gown by Fanny Serrano; butterfly earrings by Naomi; Antique magnifying glass by AC+632

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FASHION 69

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Month 5 70 5 THINGS TO DO

things To Do This

1

Staying in Dubai during the last month of the year can be viewed as utterly sad (read: can’t be home for the holidays). But our resilience and jolly nature won’t let us give in to the Christmas blues. We know it’s better to focus on things we can do in the land of gold rather than stressing over the fact that we’re far away from home.

We’ve rounded up a list of things to do so you can support the Pinoy contingent at the upcoming Dubai International Film Festival, finish the nine nights of Misa de Gallo (version ala Dubai), then, start prepping up for Christmas parties and Noche Buena. Lastly, do not forget to indulge yourself – take time to rest, have “me-time” at a spa to ensure a well-rested body and mind to welcome 2013.

Go to the movies Going to the movies may sound quite ordinary but getting to watch awardwinning films, not only from the Philippines, is quite a privilege. Happening this December 9-16, the 9th edition of the annual Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) will feature another amazing film directed by the festival winner Brillante Mendoza. From winning the Muhr Best Film Award at the DIFF in 2009 for his film Lola, Mendoza returns this year with his entry in the prestigious line-up of the festival’s Muhr Asia Africa Awards category: Sinapupunan (Thy Womb). With stellar

cast headlined by Nora Aunor, together with Lovi Poe and Bembol Roco, the moviegoers will witness 106 minutes the story of a childless couple who went through seemingly insurmountable measures to having one. Aside from Brillantes’ film to DIFF, there is another film that will surely catch our interest: the USA entry, “Don’t Stop Believin’: Everyman’s Journey”. This film follows the Cinderella story of Filipino singer Arnel Pineda, the now lead vocalist of American legendary group, Journey.

From from YouTube to taking the center stage, the film by Ramona Diaz chronicles Pineda’s rise to rock’n’roll stardom.

Attend simbang gabi In taking a more traditional approach to celebrating your stay in Dubai this December, we suggest that you hear mass at St. Mary’s Church in Bur Dubai or St. Francis of Assisi Church in Jabel Ali for nine nights starting December 16th until the 24th.

The Catholic churches follow the misa de gallo traditions in a not-soconventional way where masses are to be held after office hours instead of the customary celebrations during dawn. This schedule makes hearing the popular nine-day novena during the Advent more attractive for working Pinoys. The masses can provide you assurance that no matter where you are, you are blessed

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Celebrate Christmas (the OF way)

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You may feel the need to sulk and wallow in pity for being in Dubai during the holidays. Thank goodness for technology? You can celebrate Christmas with your loved ones via Skype, Yahoo Messenger, Facebook video chat, Google Talk, among others. So, do not give in to your blues. Prep up, doll up, and make the most of your holiday. In fact, this is the new era of celebrating Christmas, the Overseas Filipino way. What can you do to make it more cheerful? Invite your friends to Noche Buena or Christmas Day brunch, and introduce them to your loved ones back home. And, do not forget to add some Pinoy traditions like serving ham and queso de bola, giving gifts to children, and of course, giving to the less fortunate.

4 Pamper yourself, indulge in spa Last, but should not be the least, among your things to do this month is getting some “metime”. It is essential that you are in a relaxed state of body and mind by the end of the year to be able to give yourself a fresh start. Look into the many offerings in deals websites such as Souq.com, Groupon.com and Cobone.com.

There are countless spa and beauty centers that provide affordable packages, allowing you to pamper yourself in practical indulgence to better assess your year 2012, and discern your goals for the coming 2013. Some might think that a trip to the salon or spa cannot do that, but do try it. You’ll see what rest and pampering can do to your mind and body, really.

Welcome New Year at the Burj Khalifa December is not only about Christmas; it is also about celebrating the New Year, and the wonderful beginnings it brings. Here in Dubai, Pinoys used to flock Jumeirah Beach side to watch the fireworks by the Burj Al Arab, the iconic luxury hotel that has served as a Dubai landmark. The glorious display has been a signal to the change of the calendar, year on year. But, during the past couple of years, there is a new venue where Pinoys go to count down the last few hours of

5

the year. The tallest tower in the world is now ‘the’ place to witness the New Year.

If you have not experienced it yet, then better plan to do it this year. What makes it more astounding is that the countdown happening in Burj Khalifa is witnessed by the rest of the world just like the famous drop of the ball at Times Square in New York. So, if you do not have anything planned for New Year’s Eve just yet, then better list Burj Khalifa in your top most option. You’ll experience the thrill and excitement of being one of the millions to witness a spectacular end to 2012 and the beginning of 2013.

72 FEATURE

THE HOLIDAY TRAVEL SURVIVAL GUIDE The Christmas and New Year holidays are the busiest times of the year for traveling. Globetrotter and travel writer Nikka Sarthou rounds up some tips to consider before taking flight.

December does not just usher in Christmastime but the travel peak season as well. Along with it comes hordes of travelers wanting to get home in time for the holidays. Spending this meaningful season in a special place or with loved ones is a gift in itself, and a lot of people would practically do anything to have their ideal Christmas—and in this peak holiday season, it may include braving the long queues, taking the chance at being a chance passenger, or even pay the premium price.

Sering, Editor of Smile, in-flight magazine of Cebu Pacific Air, “It’s always best to book well in advance (we’re talking months) especially for Christmas for the best rates, and perhaps being flexible with travels dates will help you land the most reasonably priced tickets.” She checks the rates online, which may vary greatly from day to day. “Weekend flights are more likely to cost more than weekday flights so sometimes a matter of leaving one day early or a day later translates to great savings.”

But holiday travel need not be that stressful. Read on as some globetrotters share tips on how to make traveling during the holidays hassle-free.

The key is to book way in advance to make sure that your chosen flights and hotels are available, and you will most likely get the best rates with early bookings. One person who travels a lot for work is Johan Guillaume, a delegate of the International Committee of the Red Cross. “I use different websites like Kayak.com and airline websites to compare prices, the same for the hotels with Agoda.com and Booking.com. Sometimes if you call the hotel directly, you could get a better

Travel tip #1: Planning ahead The first thing you need to do is to select your preferred date of travel and work from there. Nowadays, you can be your own travel agent by going online to do the booking yourself. According to Tara

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price.” It helps to shop around and search for the best deals before confirming a booking. “In some websites, you can get a huge discount (up to 50%) if you do a "blind-booking". Just mention your hotel preference (number of stars) and the area, but you will only know the actual hotel once the booking is confirmed and note that it is non-refundable.”

Travel tip #2: Preventing flight hitches Airport foot traffic simply cannot be avoided during the mad holiday rush but there are some flight hitches that you can do away with. For Johan, “I always have a copy of my flight ticket on paper and one electronic version on my iTouch.”

Aside from preparing all travel documents (e.g. passport, visa, ticket), you also have to familiarize yourself with the airline and airport policies. Tara shares, “To help manage the stress of travel at this time, I make sure to check-in online (most airlines offer this service) and keep to airline rules,

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such as baggage allowance, so that there are no hitches at the drop-in counter.”

Those who can, should learn to pack light as well. Kara Santos of Travel Up blog reveals, “I usually just bring one backpack with me so that I can avoid checking in bags at the airport. While others are waiting at the conveyer for their bags, I can head out of the airport and line up for a cab at once.”

Apart from check-in concerns, travelers may also encounter snags in flight schedules. In the case of married couple and seasoned travelers, Ken Wong and Janice Layug, “For long haul flights, we make sure that we have spare clothes and toiletries in our carry-on bags to prepare for any delayed or cancelled flights. We also make sure that we have a fully charged laptop and phone to make full use of our time for any flight delays or emergencies.”

The couple is based in Singapore and combined, clocked in over 20 combined trips this year alone. Their wandering feet have led them to different destinations around Europe and Asia, among others.

An unconventional way to avoid flight hitches is to steer clear of popular destinations during the holiday season.

If you are planning to go on a vacation somewhere, do not head to the usual haunts. Kara says, “There are a lot of great destinations in the Philippines, but people prefer to flock to the same popular party places. Pick a place that's more exotic or off-the-beaten-path and you might find yourself enjoying your vacation more.”

Travel tip #3: Traveling with kids Families who usually travel with children know that it takes a special skill to do so.

Aside from ensuring that everything is in its place—from the baby’s security blanket to whatnot—you have to be extra patient when traveling with little ones. It would be best if you have kid-friendly items to keep them entertained while waiting at the airport; maybe a tablet with educational games or some good old coloring book and crayons. Do not forget to bring some snacks for them to munch on. Remember, the secret is to keep them happy so you will be happy, too.

Husband and wife team, Ken and Janice, shares, “When traveling with family (and kids), we make sure that accommodations and transportation are properly arranged before the trip. This just makes the trip hassle-free. If we’re traveling with a big group, there would normally be one person representing the group for the hotel. This way, we can get a group discount and special requests can easily be arranged and tracked.”

These well-seasoned travelers agree that the most important thing, next to being prepared is not allowing yourself to get stressed out. Tara sums it up, “Start with a conscious decision that you won’t allow yourself to get stressed, and everything will flow from there, it will be easier to make decisions--and making decisions in the determined quest for a good time is usually the root of holiday stress.”

Must-have travel apps In this modern day and age, there is really no excuse to make traveling easier and more efficient. Try the following apps for size. [Oh, better check if your gadgets are fully charged and have WiFi or 3G connection; otherwise, some apps could become totally useless. Also, do a test run first before using the apps right there and then.]

Flight Card – A flight tracking application that lets you search your flight by entering your flight number or route, track it, and share the information with others.

“Lonely Planet” – Get reliable city guides with this app that does not require Internet connection. It also offers audio phrasebooks, audio walking tours, and language translators.

Tripit – A free app that helps organize itinerary by putting all your trip details in one place. Just forward all details to the app and it will create a master itinerary with all your information as well as other extras like maps and even weather forecasts.

Booking sites apps such as Agoda. com, Booking.com, Expedia, and TripAdvisor for your flight and accommodation needs.

Other notable apps that jetsetters would find useful are XE Currency (currency converter), World Clock (for keeping track of time zones), and Google Maps (free voice-guided navigation).

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BEATING HOLIDAY STRESS

By Ana P. Santos

The holidays are synonymous to… stress. At no other time of the year does the saying, “so much to do and so little time” ring at its peak.

Here are some tips to make the holidays less stressful.

The holidays are synonymous to…stress.

At no other time of the year does the saying, “so much to do and so little time” ring at its peak.

Here are some tips to make the holidays less stressful.

WORK FOR THOSE WHO HAVE TO WORK ALL YEAR AROUND Many people want to be an entrepreneur because they want to “own their own time”. No enough people will tell you though that to keep a business running— especially in its start up phase and a small task force on the job—you need to be working all the time.

Alicia Parsons, a writer for Scoutiegirl digitalzine, shared three practical tips for entrepreneurs on to “holiday-proofing” your business and preventing any workrelated incidents from creeping in on your celebrations.

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First, you have to alert your clients in advance in tell them that operations will cease this day to that day to manage expectations. But also, tell them how you plan to handle any pending projects or orders.

When it comes to business, if you cannot plan ahead enough, you can at least be prepared. Anticipating needs and possible glitches are key to keep the unexpected from stressing you out.

SHOPPING:

If you can, avoid taking on any new projects. Apart from juggling the many parties and invitations, you have to take into consideration that December is a shorter month, in terms of work days.

You will not get as much done because of the shorter work days and because a lot of the people you may need for projects are already on holiday mode.

Lastly, says Alicia, put everything online. Set up a dropbox so you can access files and share files from anywhere you may be. Alicia also suggests using autoresponder emails, use “Mail Chimp”, or if an employee is handling basic replies to use “Canned Responses” in Gmail.

“I make a masterlist of all the people I need to give gifts to and classify them into: family, work colleagues/clients, and friends,” says Ruby Gonzaga, an administrative employee at a multinational company in Manila.

“I sometimes break down the work colleagues and clients list into smaller groups for the bosses or high net worth clients, but for everyone else, I buy a nice momento that is gender-neutral. I buy these in bulk and sometimes can get a discount,” shares Ruby who began putting this list on Excel and just adding a new column every year. It may seem extreme to others, but to Ruby, it serves two purposes:

FEATURE 75

it makes it easier to compute and keep track of her expenses, and it also keeps track of what she gave out last year so that she doesn’t fall into the embarrassing trap of giving someone the same thing.

traffic is horrible. I don’t mind paying an extra delivery charge if it means that I don’t have to sit in traffic or go around in circles for parking. Plus, the delivery fee is still cheaper than the cost of gas.”

Ruby who has mastered the mad shopping says that she has learned to veer away from gifts that are generic. “It isn’t just the fruit cake that’s ‘old news’ when it comes to gifts. There are also the mugs! I’ve decided to give personalized presents like gift cards and stationery. At least, you know they won’t give it away—it’s got their name on it!”

PARTY HERE, GATHERING THERE -- EVERYWHER

Buying in bulk allows Ruby to shop for her family last and at leisure. “With everyone else’s presents out of the way, I can devote one entire day to just shopping for my husband and my daughter. It makes shopping for them a joy, rather than a chore.”

Stay-at-home mom Marina Cruz says she has learned to maximize the use of the Internet for on-line shopping. “Holiday

There are many invitations for parties, reunions and even just to meet up and exchange gifts. Sometimes, you wonder how you can actually attend them all.

Well, the good news is you actually don’t have to. The bad news is, to do that, you’re going to have to learn to say “no”, which in the usual Asian way is, “I’ll try.”

“It was causing me more stress,” says Nony, a call center employee of her previous aversion to decline invites. “I would have to think up of last minute excuses not to go and feel horribly guilty after. In the end, I realized that by declining at the onset, I was being honest with myself and others.

No isn’t naman a bad word.”

“I always say something like, ‘there’s always a next time’, but I make sure that I follow through with that promise even before the holidays come around next year.”

PACKING ON THE DREADED HOLIDAY WEIGHT They say that most everyone’s New Year Resolution includes a promise to losing weight—some which was put on because of the gorging on holiday feasts and scrumptious desserts.

The Mayo Clinic and other health websites recommend loading up on a healthy snack before a Christmas party of gathering so you’ll feel full. The holidays are not the time to skip meals, feel starved and then indulge in a Christmas buffet.

As with any other day, moderation is key and yes, holiday calories prompted by the thought, “paminsan-minsan lang naman yan” do add up. As they say, a moment on the lips, forever on the hips.

76 FEATURE

PRIMA. BALLERINA. FILIPINA. Filipino ballerina Candice Adea dancing the Don Quixote Grand Pas de Deux. Photo courtesy of the USA International Ballet Competition - Source:The Hong Kong Ballet website

Niña Terol-Zialcita invites us to watch and applaud the performance, and the extraordinary journey of Candice Adea The first time this writer met Candice Adea, she was a spritely 24-year-old who had big dreams for herself and high hopes for her art. She was still fresh from winning the prestigious Maris Liepa Special Award at the Boston International Ballet Competition (BIBC) and was set to dance in Firebird, the 1910 classic composed by Igor Stravinsky. Adea was the first-ever Filipina invited to dance in that piece, and she was set to perform in Paris under the tutelage of the Russian choreographer Andres Liepa, alongside stars from the

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Bolshoi and Mariinsky Theaters.

She was also set to dance Don Quixote in Russia after winning “Lead role in Russian ballet performance”, together with her partner, Jean Marc Cordero— whom she had described as her “partner in everything”—for their performance of the Don Quixote pas de deux at the 2011 BIBC. Then, in June 2012, fresh from her Paris stint, Adea once again made history when she won First Prize, Senior Women’s

Division at the Helsinki International Ballet Competition, one of the most prestigious ballet competitions in the world. Her record made Adea the first-ever Filipino ballet dancer, male or female, to place first in a prestigious international competition. She bested the records of Lisa Macuja, who placed second at the Asia Pacific International Ballet Competition in 1987, and Christine Rocas, who placed second at the New York International Ballet Competition in 2007.

FEATURE 77

was doing,” she revealed. “Everyone goes through a stage like that in their careers.

But what passion doesn’t hurt? In a way, I’m grateful to have felt that pain because that’s what makes me human.”

It’s the intensity of her commitment that has transformed Adea into a stronger, more mature, and more determined dancer.

Amid the deeply devastating loss of her father in the run-up to the Helsinki ballet competition, her mother’s own medical hurdles, and the financial challenges that most Filipino artists are forced to endure, Candice Adea has danced through her pain and has shone her brightest for her audiences, demonstrating true mastery of and passion for her craft.

The Pacquiao of ballet?

Now living outside of the Philippines as a soloist for the Hong Kong Ballet, Candice Adea has been cognizant of her role in promoting Filipino artistry to the world from the moment she stepped out to compete in international ballet tilts.

She once admitted that some form of “discrimination” still exists in ballet, but adds that this is usually based on skill and not on race and color.

A journey of love and sacrifice Adea’s path has brought her to the top of her art and craft, but she admits that it had taken her a tremendous amount of sacrifice to dance this “beautiful and difficult dance.”

She was four years old when she first fell in love with ballet, thanks to her family’s support and to the influence of her elder sister Carissa, also a ballerina and Candice’s frequent alternate in her previous Ballet Philippines roles. But it was in her teenage years, while studying as a scholar at the Philippine High School for the Arts in Makiling, Laguna, when the younger Adea realized how much commitment this love truly entailed.

“I really sacrificed a lot for ballet,” this self-confessed “technique before soul” dancer shared. No nights-out, no debuts and parties, no concerts. Instead, late nights rehearsing and doing the extra work needed to get her then-14-year-old body into shape for roles reserved for principal dancers.

“When I was younger, I didn’t feel the ‘sacrifice’ because every time I would go to the studio, I didn’t treat it as work; I went because my friends were going there.

It’s only now [when I realize] how much it entailed. But I have no regrets.”

Adea’s journey deeper into ballet also brought her beyond physical pain. “I’ve experienced being depressed about what I

(“The ones who go out of their way to intimidate you are usually not very good; the really good dancers are usually nice,” she pointed out with a laugh.)

Through her international achievements, she hopes to do for the arts what eightdivision boxing champion Manny Pacquiao has done for boxing in the Philippines.

“Before Manny Pacquiao, there was no support for boxing… What if we are the ones to bring life and recognition to art in the Philippines?” She asked, then added, “That is why we [dance] internationally— to make a name for us Filipinos. ‘Go, go, go, Philippines!’ [We’ll be waving] the flag for the country.”

78 FEATURE

Helping them dance on their own two feet Life as a ballet dancer is no walk in the park.

Aside from the usual struggles faced by many Filipino artists—such as low wages and Philippine society’s general disregard for the arts—ballerinas and danseurs have to contend with the wear and tear of their pointe shoes, production expenses, and travel costs when competing. Here’s how you can help: Buy season tickets to shows. Season subscribers get the best seats in the house and 20 percent off the regular ticket rates. For Ballet Philippines’ 43rd season, subscriptions cost anywhere from just Php425 per person (student price, matinee shows) to Php1,800 per person (orchestra center, evening shows). Avid ballet lovers can also reserve their own private boxes

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(for six pax) at the CCP Main Theater for Php3,000 to Php10,000. For rates and inquiries, visit http://ballet.ph/season-43dragon-song/

“Share the magic” with underprivileged children.

Ballet Philippines’ “Share the Magic” Fund makes it possible to send students from 8 to 18 years old to the CCP for an afternoon of ballet and snacks. They may even get to meet the dancers! To donate to this fund, visit http://ballet.ph/school/ share-the-magic/

Donate to the Professional Dancers’ Fund.

According to Rhea Dumdum Bautista, PR Director of Ballet Philippines and former principal of the CCP Dance School, “The Professional Dancers’ Fund aims to ensure that we continue to give our dancers their full wages every month so they can dance and rehearse worry-free.” To read more

about it and donate, visit http://ballet.ph/ support.

Sponsor toe shoes for a dancer.

The Ballet Philippines website says, “For classes and rehearsals six days a week, a professional dancer wears out a pair a week.

For performances, a new pair is a must— ratty, worn-out shoes do not look good on stage!” A pair of quality toe shoes costs anywhere from Php3,000 to Php6,000. To support the Toe Shoe Fund, visit http:// ballet.ph/support/toe-shoe-fund/

Support a ballet scholar.

It takes more than passion to sustain a ballet dancer; often, it takes a community of ballet aficionados to ensure that deserving dancers get access to the best dance education possible. To know more about how to support a scholar or support Ballet Philippines’ other initiatives, email info@balletphilippines.org.

TRIPPIN’ 79

HOUSE OF CEBU:

Living in Art Johanna Michelle Lim walks us through Cebu’s first design hotel, where eclectic art and design come together.

There is graffiti on the wall. On the right, is a floor to ceiling steel plate salvaged from the side of a fragmented ship. Distressed furniture finds its place comfortably in the lobby. And on the side are several canvass trunks and weathered suitcases tossed as if the traveler just came home and is too exhausted to organize them. The whole portrayal seems straight out of a flea market, or an artist’s enclave, or both. But it is actually an apt first

impression of Detlaf and May Ernst’s House of Cebu, the very first Design Hotel in the Queen City.

“We don’t want to call it a boutique hotel,” explains Detlaf, who thinks of the designation as an excuse for small spaces. A design hotel, on the other hand, has character, evokes a feeling from its guests, and most of all, veers away from the horror vacui of generic hotel rooms.

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80 TRIPPIN’

Each of the 38 rooms is customized, every art piece one-of-a-kind. And most of the time, even the owners are surprised by its outcome born from last-minute decisions.

The fear of blank spaces, it seems, is what drove Detlaf and May to personalize each area as they see fit, not limited to any particular style or movement in Design, other than what they consider as “ours”.

The husband and wife team took the decorating formula from the four to five homes they’ve lived in all over the world, from China to Spain in a span of 20 years, and extended it to their hotel.

them, “Would you like to continue in my hotel instead?” The outcome is a unique mural that greets you at the lobby going to the hotel’s basement. Little details- a lamp, a painting, an installation- are bought first, and then found a place in the hotel, in this order. “We buy everything ourselves, handle everything ourselves.” relying only on artistic eye and trial and error to put everything where they should be.

A Space for Art or the Art of Space

Murals are used for headboards, a selection of Pop Art, Degas-like pieces and even Berlin Street Art. In Detlaf ’s opinion, Berlin is the current Design and Art Capital of the World. A local artist was tapped to replicate murals from the famous East Side Gallery, a 1.3 kilometer portion of the Berlin Wall and the biggest open-air gallery in the world, to give travelers a taste of Europe in their temporary abode.

Space itself is an indication of the couple’s priorities. Their smallest room is cut into 36 square meters of comfort, twice the size of a typical hotel room with a colorful hodgepodge of warm wood and a finish

Formula may even be an overreach as this is exactly what they try not to have. Each of the 38 rooms is customized, every art piece one-of-a-kind. And most of the time, even the owners are surprised by its outcome born from last-minute decisions; not quite the typical practice of hoteliers where everything is set on paper even before execution. For instance, the graffiti wall panel was born out of serendipity.

May spotted a few street artists that were spraying a wall panel in one of Cebu’s streets. She got out of her car and asked

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that’s reminiscent of Brutalist Architecture with its open beams, unpainted concrete and pipes that stick out to reveal its industrial function. Although Brutalism itself has been criticized as stark, the couple combats this by putting an eclectic mix of pattern on pattern, and whimsical floor and wall accents. The result is a space that makes you live and breathe art literally.

A Choice of Going to a Mad Tea Party or Eating with Scraps As proprietors of a Design Hotel, one would readily assume that Detlaf and May are proclaimed artists themselves with a Bohemian “take it a space at a time, a problem at a time” approach to business.

But Detlaf insists they are more collectors than artists. When in China, they collected Chinese Paintings. When in the Middle East, they took to collecting carpets, and whatever a place had ample supply of. “We had to put up a hotel to get rid of them,” jokes Detlaf.

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House of Cebu enjoys the position of being one of the most chosen hotspots for photo shoots, chic interludes, and inspirational mood board for Interior Design.

The more interesting collection though are their salvaged finds from different European scrap yards, lovingly handpicked, and showcased in the two restaurants found in the House of Cebu.

On the ground floor is Paseo One, seemingly a walk-through to the Surrealistic make-believe world of Alice in Wonderland. Oversized chairs about 3 feet tall with only one arm surround a table that looks like it’s supported by anchor chains. Adding to the whimsy are two midget chairs that, amidst the gigantism, can only seat a bag. Overhead are lighting fixtures swathed in different cloth patterns – stripes, paisleys, florals- that Detlaf says, like all the other parts of the hotel, was not intentional, only deciding on it the moment it was installed.

Even in their second restaurant, aptly named Scrapyard, the decorating came first before the concept. Here, the couple utilizes their finds from Shanghai, the Middle East and Berlin to give diners a room full of conversation pieces. This is coming from two people, who do not proclaim themselves artists, but who understand fully that design has a

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tendency to dictate itself, and that the creative process oftentimes never takes you to where you want it to go.

The cuisine has always been May’s forte as she owned the very first delicatessen in Cebu during the 80s and migrated her business to Shanghai when they lived there. German and international cuisine is served, and a hodgepodge of influences from their travels, all taken from May’s accumulated recipes.

All is Well in Love and Art The couple has come full circle, returning to the island, where Detlaf, German, worked at the plant construction industry and May, a Negrense, began their story 29 years ago. Although coming from different cultures and backgrounds, they surprisingly argue very little in terms of design. “We discuss about some pieces but there’ve been no real issues. This is us.” says Detlaf.

So, why Cebu, and how can you be sure the place is ready for it? Detlaf can only smile and shrug. “People have asked us that before. And we’re not yet really sure if Cebu is ready for it (the Design Hotel

concept).”, so used is the market to the austere cleanliness of the usual offerings.

But Detlaf and May are hoping to get more people from Design, Art and Media to jumpstart the needed acceptance. “We’d be very happy to accommodate exhibits or events.”

Like their take on designing perhaps, the couple is willing to gamble on the outcome.

They are busy completing eight of the hotel’s 38 rooms with the same handson process that they’ve placed in the rest of the areas. And after its completion, are there expansions or even a second branch?

The two chorus out a loud “No!” like two painters healthily exhausted from turning a blank canvass, a shell of a building really, into a work of art. Currently, House of Cebu enjoys the position of being one of the most chosen hotspots for photo shoots, chic interludes, and inspirational mood board for Interior Design.

In its lobby, a Red man, an installation from a Chinese artist and one of the most photographed pieces in Cebu right now, leans forward in a perpetual pucker, not unlike the Filipino tradition of beso, as if to say “Welcome”.

82 FEATURE

PAPERCUTS

by Sinag de Leon

With a snip here, a cut there, visual artist Sinag de Leon makes works of art by cutting paper. Nephele Kirong discovers that some papercuts don’t hurt, but are actually things of beauty.

Art exists in many forms, they say.

From thought-invoking paintings to aweinspiring sculpture, people seek different mediums to express and translate their ideas into art.

Some stick to one they feel comfortable with, while others experiment on different mediums for every project they make.

Visual artist Sinag de Leon would probably best fit in the first category.

Since discovering the art of papercut at the tender age of seven through a Childcraft book, she has kept producing her art through colourful papers and sharp scissors.

From a snowflake Sinag shares that her fascination for paper cut-outs began by following a Childcraft feature on making paper snowflakes.

But the make and do volume had only three cut-outs, which were all triangular in shape. She says those three cut-outs were easy to make.

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“Kaya sabi ni tatay, mas maganda raw kung medyo dagdagan ko pa ng cuts. Mas maganda raw sabi niya, mas komplikado kaysa tatlo lang.” [My dad said it would be more beautiful if I added more cuts. It would be more beautiful if the design were more complicated.]

Challenged by her father’s words, Sinag has since kept on creating more and more paper snowflakes.

These paper snowflakes ended up in homemade cards she gives to friends. “May mga ibang tao na nagsasabi na hanggang ngayon, naalala pa rin nila yung binigay kung card na may snowflakes.” [Others say still remember the cards with snowflakes till today.]

Exhibiting her work Despite her constant work on paper cuts, Sinag didn’t actually begin showcasing her work until 2007. A Philippine Studies graduate from the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, she was working for a non-government organization before shifting her focus to her art.

A writer aunt, who was taking Painting as a second course, invited her to be one of the resource speakers for a contemporary arts festival in UP Baguio they organized for a class project. Her aunt asked her to demo paper cutting.

“Natuwa ako kasi kahit hindi mga Fine Arts, maraming nag-attend. Naghihiraman pa sila ng gunting.” [I was so happy. A lot of people attended, even those not from Fine Arts. They were even borrowing scissors from one another.]

It was in that same occasion that the college dean saw her and invited her to be part of the Baguio Summer Arts Workshop.

She taught paper cutting, together with her daughter who made origami, to participants aged five to 36 years old for five days.

The culminating activity, where participants displayed their artwork, made her think of showing her own to the public.

In November of that year, Sinag presented an exhibit with her daughter Raya, who was working on a variety of mediums like pastels and acrylics. They since had

FEATURE 83 mga tao. So dun ako nakaisip na gumawa niyan,” she says. [“Those who go to bazaars aren’t collectors of big artworks. So I thought of making that.”]

But Sinag notes enthusiastically that sometimes surprise customers like students appear, who buy big artworks.

While a bulk of her works is bought at bazaars and exhibits, she says orders are also coursed through her Facebook page.

She also conducts workshops and outreach, alongside her exhibits.

This element of surprise thrills her immensely. “Hindi ako nabo-bore.” [I don’t get bored.]

Her inspiration though, she says, may come from the attributes of the paper.

While she clears that she uses any kind of paper, she also comes across specialty papers like the ones hanging in the gallery, where this interview took place.

mother-daughter exhibits until 2009, after which Sinag decided to go solo.

Sinag staged her first exhibit on June 2010 in Conspiracy, Quezon City.

According to her, the ones in the exhibit were created from handmade paper from Iloilo. These papers feature some leaves and crushed shells. “So parang consciously, ayokong tanggalin yung mga yun.” [So consciously, I didn’t take those out.]

Underscoring uniqueness

Reaching a market

Sinag emphasizes that every work she has done is unique. Her paper cuts do not repeat. “Mula noon hindi ko inulitinulit. Nakalagay din sa Craftchild na yung mga snowflake walang pareho.” [Since I started, I have never repeated a design.

It’s also written in Craftchild that no two snowflakes are alike.]

Neither does Sinag draw patterns over the paper to cut. Her scissors acts as her pencil instead. And no, she doesn’t have that many scissors or even special ones.

Despite the lucrativeness of selling her artwork, Sinag doesn’t think of it as a business. Sinag also takes in consideration that not everyone can purchase big artworks, which she sells for Php2,500 to Php9,000, depending on the size and the complexity of cuts. She says some people also told her that they do not have the space to accommodate big artworks in their home or it doesn’t fit the color scheme of their homes’ interiors.

Thus, she began producing alternative sizes of her work in the form of bookmarks and double-frames, which feature the art on one side and a mirror or picture frame on the other, mainly for bazaars she joins.

Smiling, she adds that she also really can’t answer questions on how her mood affects her work. With her work unplanned, the result also comes as a surprise to her after she unfolds the snipped paper to show the design it now has.

“Sabi ko, pag bazaar hindi naman kumokolekta ng malalaking artwork yung

Sharing the unconventional art With her work’s growing popularity, Sinag still dreams of taking a residency in another country to learn more about the art of paper cutting. She believes that the Philippines has a strong paper art tradition, marked by the use of papers in fiestas that are frequent in the country.

Moreover, she doesn’t shy away from teaching the craft to those who are interested.

Rather than make it like a trade secret, Sinag is not scared of competition and is willing to share what she knows.

“Ang dami-daming possibilities na pwedeng gawin sa papel,” [There are many many possibilities with paper] she states, noting that during her demos, each participant has different styles they apply.

Aside from the prospect of sharing knowledge, Sinag also feels happy knowing that there are lot of people willing to learn.

“Habang may gusto matuto, magtuturo ako ng magtuturo.” [While there are those who want to learn, I will continue to teach.]

Sinag will be part of the upcoming Punla: a three-woman exhibit at the San Beda Alabang Museum. It will run from November 8 to 30, 2012. Details can be checked at her Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ sinag.deleon?ref=ts&fref=ts

84 BAYANIHAN CORNER

ISANG MAAGA AT PAULIT-ULIT NA PASKO

By Ambassador Grace Relucio-Princesa

Finally, the international launch of the Pinoy WISE (Worldwide Initiative for Investment, Savings and Entrepreneurship) Movement happened on the 23rd November 2012, at the Abu Dhabi National Theatre.

That, for me, and the estimated half a million OF’s (Overseas Filipinos) was just like an early Christmas. And yes, it will be a regular “Christmas” too. This is because, through Pinoy WISE, we are gifted with regular lessons on being smart with our finances, so that we can be wiser in handling the psycho-social costs related to labor migration.

Starting early 2013, single session free lessons, held on Fridays, will be shared by volunteers to fellow compatriots to guide them towards financial literacy. That’s the first step.

Another meeting, also held Fridays (grade two level), will be held to discuss family issues that lessen the capacity to save and invest.

The third training will be on business and investment opportunities in the

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Philippines. This was actually the highlight of the launching led by no less than Secretary Proceso “Procy” Alcala. Agribased activities are negatively and hugely affected when labor migration happens. In an effort to reverse this phenomenon, Pinoy WISE hopes to attract OF investments in this area to stimulate job generation.

Secretary Alcala said that agriculture has now become “sexy” in the Philippines. He promised, as President Aquino stated in his last State of the Nation address, that we will be a rice exporter next year.

Through the spirit of Bayanihan that the President has been promoting and we in the United Arab Emirates regularly practice, we are positive that we can be an even greater nation.

The early gift of Pinoy WISE, including the Pinoy marketplace activity was not only presented in Abu Dhabi by the multi-

sectoral team that came spearheaded the event.

During the 30th November 2012, at the Bayanihan Festival in Zaabeel Park in Dubai, the same “present” was shared with the OFs of Dubai and the Northern Emirates. The same message was re-echoed at The Philippine School during the Financial Literacy Forum event which was held as part of Pinoy WISE launch.

Christmas does not have to be in December only. It can also be in November and any time, in fact, if Filipinos get together in the spirit of Bayanihan which is the true spirit of the season.

May all of us have a Blessed Merry Christmas and a Peaceful and Prosperous New Year.

God bless us all.

COMMUNITY 85

OPPPS Batch 26 Graduation

Two hundred and one participants of Overseas Pinoy Professional Photographers Society’s (OPPPS) digital photography, digital darkroom and graphics courses received their certificate of completion at a function held at Dubai World Trade Center Bubble Lounge on November 30, 2012. Lalaine Chu Benitez from Illustrado Magazine was the guest speaker for the function. Invited VIP guests included Wafa Kasimieh and Letty Maniaul who helped in providing the venue for the enrollment, the Assahaba Center, and training facilities, The Philippine School.

Four known personalities from photography industry and the media were also present to judge the photo competition with the theme “Decisive Moment” – a final plate requirement for the digital photography participants.

The short term courses were organized

by OPPPS under the auspices of the Philippine Consulate General, Philippine Overseas Labor Office and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in Dubai and Northern Emirates. All courses are offered are virtually tuition-free to all Filipinos.

The ten-week course in digital photography provided a series of training sessions for the photo enthusiasts, topics discussed during the course included camera functions, exposure, composition, resolutions, shooting tips, hands on training (field trips), modifying and enhancing images among others. The five-week lectures in digital darkroom focused mainly on how to manage pictures, advanced enhancements and modifications. While the ten-week graphic design course introduced the

participant to make composite images such as posters and the likes using Adobe Photoshop.

Aside from the 3 mentioned courses, OPPPS also conducted one advanced course for its members - Back to Basics: Fashion Photography Using Natural Light, where participants were taught the professional way of doing a fashion shoot.

If there is anyone who is more than pleased with the success of the training program, it is Eng. Milo Torres, current OPPPS President. He said, “This training program has been a resounding success with the help of our dedicated volunteer trainers and assistants, all participants have been given the opportunity to gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience.”

86 COMMUNITY

FASHUNITY 2012 Fashunity 2012 is a landmark project that showcased an exhibit of national costumes and a multicultural education program. It brought people of varied cultures together in one venue while exposing them to different arts and cultures, the objective of which is to somehow positively impact their perspective on peace, unity and increased involvement in diversity issues.

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Visitors who witnessed the event on the 11th November 2012 at the Jamiyat Al Islah in Al Qusais said that it should be done annually by the IACA to acknowledge the richly diverse arts and culture of expatriates in UAE. “We need to communicate cultural diversity to the people especially to the

new generation. When we communicate, we also educate. Education is the best way to settle culturally motivated conflicts or differences,� according to Melvin Mendoza, President of Filipino Teachers in Dubai Association who also coined the title Fashunity.

88 FILIPINISMS

Onli In Da Pilipins - 1. n. a phrase used to define anything or anyone that only exists anywhere in the 7,107 islands of the Philippines || 2. adj. a phrase used to describe a Pinas episode or a Pinoy persona so rare one would never find anywhere else in the WWW (whole, wide world). It merits a documentation of some sort.

Somethin’ Rejoice, o ye shopaholics and giveaholics!

(Yes, my lovely kababayans, I’m talking to you. We’re all in this together.) This season grants us the license to do two of our favorite things of all time and we need not be apologetic. Weeee!

Oh no. Don’t try to stop us, Scrooges and Grinches lurking out there. We’ve got five of the world’s largest malls and we hold the distinction for having the Biggest Exchange Gift ever in the Guinness World Records. Bah! It’s Christmas, and we’ll go shopping and gifting as much as we want to.

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PINOY

Shop ‘til You Drop

And as the Sys, Gokongweis, Ayalas, and Tantocos gradually deck the malls with boughs of holly and screamingly tempting “XMAS SALE!!!” signs, we eagerly wait for the coming of manna from our dear employers—otherwise known as 13th month pay AND Christmas bonus (if you’re among the chosen ones.)

But wait! You haven’t started making a list, checking it twice, and deleting ex-friends you now despise!? Plus, you still haven’t bought even one Christmas present for anyone (yourself counted)?

Hush, better keep it to yourself. No selfrespecting Filipino will admit that they haven’t been observing that Paskong-Pinoystarts-in-September policy. What would your suki in Divi say?!

Yes, that renowned paradise for Christmas (and all-year-round) bargain shoppers that even Imelda Marcos and Anne Curtis couldn’t refuse. The holidays just won’t be complete without being part of the human traffic, sharing sweat and smell with everyone else in Divisoria, Tutuban, 168, 999, even just once.

And why not when you can buy stuff for half the price if you know how to haggle

FILIPINISMS 89

For those who feel that they won’t probably come out of Divisoria alive and still want to be mixing with the masa (primarily because what they have is masa-budget), there’s Greenhills and all sorts of tiangges around town. This is the Philippines.

There’s always a store to remind you that you need to shop for Christmas gifts.

So, let’s hunt for the “cheapest Hermès bags“(it doesn’t sound right, but it does when it’s class A) to give amigas on Christmas Day. After all, it’s the season of shop-‘til-you-drop-of-fatigue and shop‘til-it-hurts-your-pocket, and it’s supposed to be fun.

Don’t be a killjoy.

It’s Better to Give But it’s definitely best to receive.

or you look like Anne? Or, if there’s no way you can ever be mistaken for Anne’s shadow, you can always get six items of the same kind and enjoy wholesale discounts.

That could be six fancy pens at Php7 each for your half-dozen inaanaks.

Whether they’ll be proud of you as their godparent is out of the question. We’re not here to judge. For sure though, you’ll agree that the savings are worth the aching feet/ broken bones/canned sardine experience/ close encounter with a mandurukot or two in Divi.

So, here go the village garbage collectors suddenly more excited than ever to take away the litter and the office security guards wearing a wider grin than usual, making sure that their names fall under the “NICE” column--just in case you’re playing Santa this year.

And because it’s the season of giving, of course, you are. Blame it on the Filipino soul’s bottomless pit of generosity or the extra kindness that generally comes with the Christmas air. (Why it escapes snobbish taxi drivers, though, you fail to understand.)

Either way, you’re game for gift-giving!

You even revisit that long-forgotten highschool hang-out “Blue Magic” just to find a unique something <insert adjective> for your Monito/Monita. You ask for your friends’ wish lists (and voluntarily give

yours too), sincerely hoping you can get what their hearts desire. But if the price doesn’t fit into your budget, there’s always the “It’s the thought that counts” rationale.

You can’t be tagged as Barat Obama.

You inquire about your inaanaks’ underwear sizes, promising yourself that you won’t bully them into doing a Showtime performance before handing out their aguinaldos. (Besides, you went through it as a kid and you never recovered from the trauma. A “Mano po” will do.)

You pick what everyone in the family wants including Yaya, though you really think your dad will look like Lito Atienza in that pink floral polo.

You even have catnips for the noisy stray cats hanging around your garden. (Finally, some peace and quiet - that’s the hidden agenda.)

For (troublesome) relatives and acquaintances, your red sack is packed full of “generic” goodies—picture frames, key chains, scented candles, coffee m u g s — we l l - m e a n i n g gifts you received but didn’t want to keep for some reason. Maybe because you secretly aspire to be an environmentalist.

So, you reduce the dust gatherers in your bedroom and reuse the items as Christmas presents. If they’ll be recycled, it’s up to the recipients. An idea that’s very akin to the fruitcake. (Pray none of them finds its way back to you.)

Now, if you feel Christmas only smacks of commercialism, go for priceless! No greater gift is there than love.

The merriest Christmas and happiest New Year to all kababayans!