ILLUSTRADO GO> ISSUE 2 > 01-05-16

EDITOR’S NOTE/ CONTENTS

ISSUE 02

1 S T • M AY • 2 0 1 6

#truthhurts

Sometimes it’s ugly. Sometimes it’s inconvenient. Sometimes, it’s just inconceivable. But no matter how disconcerting it may be, remember that adage – “the truth shall set you free.”

We treat you to some tough love in this issue, when we hold a mirror to ourselves to examine our flaws. But just like any other Illustrado, this one comes with a dare, an encouragement for all of us kababayans to level up and stretch ourselves to higher heights. We’ll start by acknowledging our challenges and move from there. So now, let’s GO!!

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LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Editor-in-Chief

PINOY-PROGRESSIVE

WORKPLACE DIVERSITY – DISCRIMINATION IS A 2-WAY HIGHWAY >6 POWER TO THE PEOPLE: GOODBYE, MAM-SER. >9 THE NEW LIBERATED >10 ILLUMINATI: LAST 2 MINUTES >12 KEEPING UP WITH THE CON GEN: THE NET BIAS >13 LAW: THE BARE ESSENTIALS >14 IT’S WHAT I DO >17 MONEY: STAGES OF FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE >19 IN THE SHACKLES OF ANTI-INTELLECTUALISM >30 USAPANG ILLUSTRADO: WHAT IS HOLDING FILIPINOS BACK? >32

BEAUTY & FASHION

FOOD & TRAVEL

REST FOR THE WICKED: CHICKEN DUMPLINGS >44 FASHION: GROTESQUE >34 FILIPINO TRAVELER: SANTIAGO, CHILE >46 THE STYLIST CLOSET >40 WEARING IT WELL – MAHRYSKA GASPACHO >41 REAL STYLE, REAL PEOPLE >42

JUST BECAUSE

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ILLUSTRADO CALENDAR >20 SCRAPBOOK >22 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: RAFAEL VALENCIA >25 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: HELENA ALEGRE >28

RIGHT NOW, PHILIPPINES >45 ONLI IN DA PILIPINS: CLASSIC HUGOT LINES >50 ANNIE B. CHRONICLES: MABUHAY DUBAI! >51 COMMUNITY >52 ILLUSTRADO STUFF>53 BLOG: ATTRACTING SUCCESS >54 illustrado go>3

Contributors

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Editor-in-Chief and aspiring urban farmer “almost superwoman” Lalaine has been driving Illustrado’s mission to uplift Filipinos in the region for almost a decade now. A former corporate dynamo living in Dubai for over 20 years, she uses her experience to advise Filipinos on how to elevate their presence in this part of the world – and that includes getting rid of some deeply ingrained habits.

CONSUL GENERAL PAUL RAYMUND CORTES When not performing his duties as the head of the Filipino community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, or the obligations of a dutiful dad, passionate patriot Paul Raymund Cortes, mulls over how to further enrich the local Filipino community by promoting a more progressive mindset.

BARNEY ALMAZAR, ESQ.

RACHE HERNANDEZ

TOYM Awardee Barney Almazar, Director at Gulf Law in the Middle East, Philippines and United Kingdom, is ‘the’ legal vanguard for Filipinos in the country. He has authored 4 books dedicated to inform and educate kababayans in the region about the legal system, as well as financial literacy.

Rache Hernandez graduated from UP-Diliman with a degree in Communication Research and currently works as a writer for a prominent company in Dubai. In this issue, Rache navigates the treacherous subject of racial discrimination in the workplace and gives us Overseas Filipinos some very relevant points to ponder.

ANNA DE LEON

Life devoid of makeup and fashion is life lived in mediocrity – a sentence that Anna has lived by since she discovered her 1st Vogue magazine at the age of 9. Empowering women through beauty has always been her passion and she believes that women can rule the world in their stilettos, red lips and razor sharp intelligence.

KRIP YUSON Krip Yuson will soon have his third novel published, titled “The Music Child & the Mahjong Queen,” a follow-up on his seventh collection of poetry, “Islands of Words & Other Poems.” He thinks that the Philippines should have its third female president soon, and that the rest of the world should also be ruled by women, while men should just content themselves with the enjoyment of good single malt.

REX VENARD BACARRA

Professor of Philosophy at the American College of Dubai, Rex Venard Bacarra says of himself - “I may be bad in folding a fitted sheet and horrible in parallel parking. But, I am excellent in chewing the maggots of the philosophical universe. Maybe…” True to form, this modern day ‘Filosopo Tasio” shares with us his thoughts on a malady that ails our society today – that of antiintellectualism.

ABY YAP

NICHOLO JALLORES

Associate Editor Nicholo Jallores tries to be everything - careful and vigilant, in that he does not end up as nothing.

He wants to make it clear that THAT sentence isn’t nearly as forlorn as it sounds.

FRANCISCO COLAYCO

Francisco Colayco is an entrepreneur, venture developer and financial adviser who has written many books that advocate Filipinos to financially prosper. He is Illustrado’s resident money columnist and personal finance guru.

What makes the Pinoy tick? Aby Yap’s long-running column “Onli in Da Pilipins” often answers that question.

She talks about artistas, the pabebe, and the familiar Pinoy life, turning it into something fun and extraordinary. With a talent for finding every Juan’s funny bone, Aby’s wit and obvious affection makes the Filipino a whole lot more lovable.

From The Publishers of Illustrado Magazine

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ CREATIVE DIRECTOR MON BENITEZ ASSOCIATE EDITOR NICHOLO JALLORES COLUMNISTS ABY YAP ALFRED “KRIP” YUSON BARNEY ALMAZAR FRANCISCO COLAYCO KRISTINE ABANTE EXCEL DYQUIANCO CONTRIBUTING WRITERS – UAE, PHILIPPINES, CANADA ANGELA MAPA ANNA OPOSA BARBARA MARCHADESCH CANDICE LOPEZ QUIMPO DANTE GAGELONIA DIDI PATERNO KARA SANTOS MARY ANN MARCHADESCH MARY ANN “MAPS” SANTOS NEPHELE KIRONG NIKKA SARTHOU NINA TEROL-ZIALCITA PRINCES NEDAMO QUAY EVANO RACHE HERNANDEZ REGINA LAYUG-LUCERO SHERRY TENORIO CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS –UAE, PHILIPPINES & USA EROS GOZE RAEN BADUA IRVIN RIVERA JEF ANOG ALEX CALUENG CRISTINA LINAZA ROZEN ANTONIO HERSON NEBAYA CONTRIBUTING FASHION CREW - UAE, HONGKONG, PHILIPPINES GINNO ALDUCENTE JESSIE TABLA VALENTINO MONTUERTO JASMIN

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WORKPLACE DIVERSITY: Discrimination is a 2-Way Highway

By > Rache Hernandez

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The UAE is a melting pot of various nationalities and that has infused the country in general, and the corporate world in particular, with a whole gamut of work values, priorities, customs, and the like. In such a diverse environment, it is sometimes difficult to keep pre-conceived notions at bay, making the workplace conducive for racial discrimination.

It is notoriously difficult to put a number on racial discrimination in UAE workplaces.

In an article published on 3 May 2009, Gulf News stated that The Ministry of Labour in Abu Dhabi “receives few complaints about racial discrimination in the workplace because they are difficult to prove and victims are often afraid of losing their jobs.”

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It starts at the beginning With just a quick look at job advertisements in the UAE, it is easy to deduce that racial considerations play a part in the local work culture. For example, it is not uncommon to see job postings specifically for applicants who are ‘European’, ‘Westerneducated’, ‘native English speakers’, ‘female Indians or Filipinas’, ‘Arab nationals’, etc.

Conversely, applicants for jobs may be looking for employers who are Europeans or Westerners, or may promote themselves as ‘Russian lady wearing a hijab’.

The great divide There is also the issue of salary discrepancy – the ‘elephant in the room’ for a lot of companies. In 2013, the Gulf Business Salary Survey revealed that Asian expats living in the UAE received an average salary that was 25.8% less than

what a Westerner of the same position received. While Asians received an average monthly salary of US$9,060 (roughly AED 33,000), Westerners received an average of US$12,215.50 (about AED 45,000) monthly.

The Gulf Business Salary Survey also mentioned that headhunters had a justification behind this salary chasm.

Companies offer Westerners a higher salary because they are perceived to possess more desirable skills, and because they have to be paid competitive rates for the same position in their home country.

Applied in general terms, this means that the UAE salary range for a nationality is competitive with what they would receive if they held same position in their home country.

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The more diverse the workplace, the greater the incidence of ‘confirmation bias’. When people from all corners of the globe coexist with cultures they have little or no experience with, they tend to make sense of cultural nuances through their own understanding of these cultures, limited as they may be.

Lou Parroco, Human Resources Director at the Canadian Energy Equipment Manufacturing FZE, has been a victim of this salary situation in a previous job. “I was once offered a position as Director of Human Resources & Compliance with a package that I thought was fair, until I saw in the payroll that a secretary, 12 years my junior, of Western nationality, was being paid almost equal to my salary.”

Stereotyping Michelle Madla, an Executive Assistant at Stantec Middle East, believes that negative stereotypes are also a form of discrimination. “People seem to think that Filipinas are ‘easy’, that we can be promiscuous in the name of supporting our family back home,” Michelle explained. “As a single mother, I have to regularly contend with this notion, even at work, although my reason for being a single mom is no one else’s business but my own.”

Inversely, Filipinos are also quite prone to throwing stereotypes around. These can cover anything from South Asian’s hygiene levels and the Arabs’ perpetually angry conversational tone, to calling people of color “nognog” or the Chinese “singkit.” In this light, Filipinos are as guilty as everyone else of racial bias.

‘Confirmation bias’ Where do all these judgements come from? In Dubai in 2011, Dr. Lee Newman, Dean of the School of Human Sciences and Technology at IE University in Spain, presented the findings of his study on behavioral biases of human judgements and decision-making in the corporate

arena. His study found that a phenomenon called ‘confirmation bias’ happens when people perceive other people as not being forthcoming, and consequently arrive at conclusions that are founded on default biases.

Translated into a corporate environment, the more diverse the workplace, the greater the incidence of ‘confirmation bias’. When people from all corners of the globe coexist with cultures they have little or no experience with, they tend to make sense of cultural nuances through their own understanding of these cultures, limited as they may be.

UAE Anti-Discrimination Law To curb discrimination in the UAE, the Anti-Discrimination Law was enacted on 20 July 2015 under a decree by UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The law criminalizes any form of discrimination against religion, caste, creed, doctrine, race, color or ethnic origin. Under the law, discrimination expressed in speech, writing, books, and pamphlets and through online media is prohibited.

Apart from discouraging hate culture, the Anti-Discrimination Law is seen as a big step towards cultural tolerance in the workplace. Lou believes that the new law will “significantly minimize the incidence of racial discrimination.” She reiterated, however, that the law will not completely eradicate the problem. “The effectiveness of the law will greatly depend on how assertively individuals report these discrimination experiences.”

Impact on companies Companies will do well to establish or update internal regulations and procedures to raise employees’ awareness of the AntiDiscrimination Law and the acts that it governs, all geared towards the protection of their workforce as a whole. Lou agreed, stating that “companies should ensure that employees are educated about the AntiDiscrimination Law.”

Lou also believes that UAE companies will greatly benefit from the proper implementation of the law. “The implementation of the law is a strong reinforcement that will positively contribute to business performance.

Workplace morale will see a significant boost, improving company performance and profitability, while also protecting employees from unfair employment practices” she stated.

No Filter As residents of a progressive and culturally open country, and as people who often see themselves as marginalized, Filipinos should applaud and support the enactment of the Anti-Discrimination Law. Instead of perpetually thinking of ourselves as “agrabyado” (at the losing end), we should consider ourselves as sources of empowerment by educating others about the new law and stand up for ourselves if we are on the receiving end of discriminatory practices.

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FEATURE >

5 THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN FIGHTING WORKPLACE RACIAL DISCRIMINATION

More importantly, we should open our consciousness and learn to further embrace cultural diversity. Keep in mind that other people probably see us with the same filters that we use on them. Accept that other nationalities are as different from us, as we are to them, and that different does not necessarily mean bad.

WORKPLACE DISCRIMINATION IN OTHER COUNTRIES Workplace racial discrimination is a global issue. In the United States, a proxy indicator of the level of discrimination in the workplace is unemployment rate.

Numbers from the US Department of Labor for 2016 point to marked differences in the unemployment rate of African-Americans compared to whites and other minorities.

The number of unemployed African Americans is twice as high (9%) as that of the white population (4.6%).

In Canada, the results of the National Household Survey in 2011 showed that the unemployment rate (9.9%) was higher among visible minority workers (defined by the Canadian government as all workers who are non-Canadian aboriginal, non-Caucasian, and non-white), compared to that of white workers (7.3%).

Interestingly, unemployment in Canada was highest among Arabs (14.2%), black workers (12.9%) and South Asian workers (10.2%).

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In the UK, data released by Business in the Community, a business-led charity that is part of The Prince’s Responsible Business Network, showed that employment rate in the second quarter of 2014 was lowest among Pakistanis (49.8%), topped by Bangladeshis (55.1%), and Chinese (58.4%).

High-profile Cases In the US (2010), General Electric found itself in an electrifying situation after 60 African American workers sued the company for racial discrimination. The workers alleged that they were denied bathroom breaks and medical attention by their supervisor, and also expressed that, although higher-ups were told of the supervisor’s discriminatory acts, investigation on the matter was intentionally delayed.

In 2010, Southern California Edison, the largest subsidiary of Edison International and the main electricity supplier of Southern California, was sued by African American workers for racial discrimination, alleging that the company routinely denied them promotion and fair pay, among others.

In 2003, clothing retailer Abercrombie & Fitch settled a lawsuit filed by some of its African American, Asian American and Latino employees, who claimed that they were purposely steered into jobs in the storeroom instead of the sales floor because they did not represent the brand’s classic ‘American look’.

LOU PARROCO, Human Resources Director at the Canadian Energy Equipment Manufacturing FZE, has the following advice for employees who find themselves discriminated against at work:

1. Gather objective proof. Make sure it’s real and not just a perception.

2. Follow your company’s established procedures. When a company enacts a policy that prohibits discrimination, it will also issue a clear process for reporting and resolution.

3. Speak to your manager first. If your immediate manager is involved, you can report to your manager’s manager, or to the HR manager.

4. Let the HR manager conduct investigations, interview witnesses if any, review the law/policy, and recommend a resolution.

5. Always be professional. Never allow your self-worth to be determined by others.

Be professional, assertive, and confident.

Continue developing yourself.

POWER TO THE PINOY

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Towards empowering Filipinos.

Goodbye, Mam-Ser. By> Lalaine Chu-Benitez

Hello, mam-ser! Thanks for coming mam-ser.

How are you doing mam-ser?

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Is it a ma’am or is it a sir, or is it both? Foreigners are baffled. But that’s just our kababayans being respectful.

The same kababayans, who, for the life of me, just can’t stop referring to me as “madame” (cringe), “ma’am” (sigh), or “miss” (hissss…).

Part of our Filipino conditioning since childhood, is to respect our elders by saying “po” and “opo”, and by referring to people as “ma’am, sir, Mr., Mrs. or sometimes, with their professional or educational titles. This is so deeply ingrained that a lot of us can’t shake it off even when it sounds awkward or is totally uncalled for. A couple of years back, I saw a Pinay member of a Pan Asian girl group being interviewed on the E! Asia channel. She was gushing about how privileged she felt to be collaborating with “Mr. Snoop Dogg.” “Mr. Snoop Dogg”? You mean the rapper former gangsta ‘stoner extraordinaire’ “Mr Snoop Dogg?” She was so respectful I felt like I had to put my hands in front as if trying to make a path to say “excuse me,” lest I offend with my objection to the reference.

Let me be “pasaway” by saying that I beg to disagree with this highly-extolled Filipino practice which is a throwback to our indio past. Having spent over two decades out

here where others are so adept at selfpromotion and most other people have a more dominant DNA than the shy and yielding Pinoy, I have to say that’s it’s long overdue – we need to ditch the damn “mam-ser.” Now na!

It’s one of the first things I tell people who join our team. Throw the “ma’am” and “sir” out of the window. Include the “madame”, the “miss”, and while you’re at it, and your “po” and “opo” as well. Just ditch the titles. In fact, let’s call each other on first name basis. Can you handle that?

subservient to others. There’s a big difference between showing respect to another person regardless of titles, to unnecessarily putting yourself at a lower level. It’s like saying – “Here I am. I’m a doormat. Come step on me… please, mam-ser (smile).”

All these unnecessary kowtowing prevents us from communicating on equal footing with people, which, is what we should be doing out here – regardless of our age, what jobs we hold, or whether we are rich or poor.

In progressive companies around the world, people call each other by their first names.

I belonged to a Fortune 500 company worth over US$250 Billion and we used to refer to the CEO as “Larry.” Not “Mr. Larry,” “Sir Larry” or anything else - just “Larry.”

Can you imagine Mark Zuckerberg being called “Mr. Zuckerberg, Sir”? (“Would you like to have some fries with that?” seems like the natural follow-up to that one.) So it just baffles the mind why we just can’t let go of the titles. Or why some of us refer to themselves in first person with honorifics that flaunt their certificates – i.e. “Architect, Engineer, Attorney, etc.”

Of course, there are very specific instances where titles are a must. When you are working in the retail or hospitality industry for example, where customer titles are part of the service culture, or when you have to address people of a certain stature – say government officials, royals, etc. , or to show respect to senior citizens (read 60 years old and above. Here we are not talking about using of po and opo for everybody just for cuteness sake).

In a place where we have to compete shoulder to shoulder with the rest of the world, oftentimes what is respectful to us Filipinos actually comes off as being

Power to the Pinoy. It’s time to level up, speak up and act as equals.

Plainly speaking, if you don’t want to be treated like the help, then don’t speak like the help.

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FEATURE >

THE NEW LIBERATED HOW TO BE A FILIPINO, TRULY FREE By > Nicholo Jallores

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Just what does it mean when a Filipino is referred to as “liberated?”

Used to be that the word “liberated” carried a sinister connotation amongst Filipinos. Before, to be “liberated” suggested promiscuity and wobbly morals; a degradation of the traditional social values that were associated with the Filipino family archetype. To be “liberated” was to be hyper-Westernized, to shed one’s conservative upbringing in favor of the more open sensibilities of the US and Europe. But things have changed. The world has been made smaller by great strides in digital communication, and cultural transference happens in seconds over the Internet. The Western world is not the exotic and tantalizing frontier it once

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was. It’s just another website address, or a page to like on Facebook. “Liberated” is no longer synonymous with “loose.” In fact, it has become a benchmark.

Whether the Filipino is truly free can be a matter of fierce and often divisive debate.

Some pundits say that we do not truly deserve the independence and democracy that we have fought for, implying that we would have been better off if we had just settled on being an American colony. The Filipino, - in every sense of the word - is free, but knowing what to do with that freedom can sometimes be tricky. Unless we understand just what we can be free of, we will never know what it is like to be truly free.

Liberty is not just a state of political independence. First and foremost, it is a

state of mind, and then it is a daily practice.

To be free, you have to think and act as a free man. Unburden thyself with the usual trifles that plague the Filipino worldview.

Here are some measures that you can take now, right this instant, to assert your independence.

Free yourself from Indio Mentality We have not been referred to as indio’s for more than a hundred years, and yet a lot of Filipinos insist on thinking and behaving like second class citizens - that is, operating with a slave’s mindset of having less opportunities by virtue of race, nationality, and social standing. This can affect us in two ways: 1.) We think we are less worthy of having the same success as other nationalities, so we lower our standards and limit our expectations, and/ or 2.) We think that there aren’t enough

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opportunities around for Filipinos, so we become crab-minded and knock each other down for scraps. This is a travesty. Not only does it cripple our chances of succeeding as individuals, it inhibits us from coming together as a community. Free yourself from the lie that you deserve less and have less because you are a Filipino. You have a shot at good life, just like everybody else.

Free yourself from Regionalism and Clannishness Filipinos uphold the traditional family and barrio archetype to such dizzying heights that they tend to work in silos and operate very insularly even in the workplace or community setting, i.e. tayo-tayo lang.

Throw in the Filipinos’ knack for being hyper-competitive and you have a recipe for a social disaster. We cannot put up a united front because we are segregated in groups, each with their own exclusive interests and self-centered agenda.

While there is nothing wrong with finding your own support group of like-minded individuals, we must take care not to inadvertently turn our sense of community into regionalism and clannishness.

Otherwise, we will limit our opportunities for learning insights and fostering productive relations with other networks.

Free yourself from the belief that you can only be in one group. You are a dynamic individual with a diverse and multifaceted character. You don’t have to be just one thing for one group. You can be many different things.

Free yourself from Financial Anxiety If in this day and age, your financial strategy still revolves around the medieval concept of “Isang Kahig, Isang Tuka,” then you are not only mismanaging your money - you are also culling your chances of securing a brighter future for yourself and your family. There are plenty of resources online that you can check out and on-ground seminars that you can attend to improve the way you manage

your finances, but most of them will teach you these two fundamental tenets: 1.)

Review and increase your income streams, and 2.) Save first, and then spend. Your money does not have to come in from just one source. You can take on freelance jobs, accept consultancy projects, invest in a small enterprise or even try your knack for the stock market to diversify your income portfolio. And please: before you go for a mad dash towards the new iPhone, make sure that you have taken due care of your savings first. Redirect some of your disposable income towards your savings account. Free yourself from the notion you are a slave to your money. You need to control your finances, and not the other way around. And remember: you don’t need “stuff,” as much as you need a stable future.

Free yourself from Celebrity and Media Worship It’s one thing to admire the way actors look or the way singers sound, but to hold him them high on a pedestal and think that they can do no wrong? Ridiculous. For far too long, celebrity worship has been used as a tool to addle the intellect of the masses to great and devastating effect. Artista’s dictate what we buy in the grocery, how we raise our kids, and what we write on our ballots. Show business has permeated every aspect of our daily life, and it bears questioning just how much control we are willing to relinquish to our Kapuso’s and Kapamilya’s. Free yourself from the illusion that celebrities are better than us. Fame is not a virtue. It’s an occupation, just like any other. Just because your favorite telenovela starlet endorses a certain brand of toothpaste doesn’t mean that it really is the best in the market. Do your research and make up your own mind, as any wise and prudent person would do.

conscious about the opinions of others that they tend to opt for the consensus, instead of forming and standing up for their own choices. We have a “follower mentality;” a real propensity for just jumping into the nearest available bandwagon for the sake of convenience and fitting in, instead of treading our own direction. This is why Filipinos are such fierce brand loyalists and trendsetters. It’s also why they are susceptible to mass media manipulation.

Free yourself from the misconception that because everyone believes it, you should believe it too. In argumentation theory, it’s called “Argumentum Ad Populum:” a logical fallacy that concludes that a proposition is true simply because many believe it to be true. Being different doesn’t automatically make you a deviant. Don’t be afraid to stand out and have your own unique voice.

Filipino, take your freedom!

The freedom that we enjoy today stems from the blood, toil, and strife of our forefathers. We must never take it for granted. We must appreciate it, enact it, and keep it alive by thought and by deed.

Take your liberty, dear kabayan. Take it and run with it.

Free yourself from Lynch Mob Mentality Filipinos tend to be so inordinately self-

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ILLUMINATI

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Deconstructing the Filipino zeitgeist. In short, dibdibang pagmumuni-muni.

Last two minutes B y > K r i p Yu s o n

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ake that the last two weeks of the 2016 presidential campaign, in reality not an eternity except for some desperately engaged parties.

If the Pulse Asia and SWS polls are to be believed (I for one accept their credibility), it is Davao Mayor Rody Duterte who will be our next President.

dose of blackprop also prevented any surge to complement her hardcore support of about 25%.

Unfortunately for him, Mar Roxas could never take off the ground despite the presidential anointment. Some say it was also an albatross. Alas, now even President Noynoy’s legacy of personal honesty that has propelled economic advancement looks imperiled by the speculation that his term also filled up the quota of impatience over government mismanagement.

Do we hear a collective gnashing of teeth” Indeed, we do, with reason. Despite his timely surge to post a double-digit lead over his nearest rival, Sen. Grace Poe, a good majority of the electorate will vote against him.

A win by plurality (some predict as much as 37% of the vote, while as of this writing it stands at 33-to-34%) won’t be without precedent. No one in recent memory has won the presidency with a majority vote, given the multiple number of candidaes.

But in Duterte’s case, it won’t just be temporary headshaking on the part of all the supporters of losing rivals. Much consternation is being expressed all around save by his supporters, with all of his fatal flaws being cited in high alarm.

Besides being a self-avowed killer, womanizer, and NPA sympathizer, his foul mouth, braggadocio and awful jokester facet of his persona naturally repel the civilized sectors.

Yet surprisingly, the phenomenal fanaticism he has generated, which started with Mindanaoans and among overseas workers, then won Visayans over, rapidly covered the rest of the country, winning over voterich NCR, and most improbably, the A-B-C demographic.

That means that even among the so-called elite, the attraction has moved on to fascination with a maverick. With the simple slogan of “Change,” his handlers mounted a brilliant campaign that worked on the

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accumulated grievances of a plurality of Filipinos not only willing to take a chance on a radical political kingpin, but rabidly urging him on to take on all comers.

With his impending win (possibly with another improbable “bad boy” in the person of Bongbong Marcos as Vice President), indeed much lamentation fills the air. “The time of the orcs has come,” say the mythically inclined. And why won’t they, given admitted allegations of human rights violations perpetrated by this frontrunner, not the least of which have been more than a thousand “kills” by the Davao Death Squad, including innocent victims.

But now recriminations will be flying post-mortem. VP Binay was the earliest frontrunner, given his imagined war chest and long-time preparation for this contest.

But the corruption allegations mounted against him without let-up (mainly by the Administration) took their toll, and his numbers have kept tumbling.

Grace Poe then challenged Binay’s erstwhile lead, and took over pole position, despite all the legal challenges. But by the time she cleared the Supreme Court, enough damage had been done. The daily

Poe will be blamed for having taken away from putative votes for the LP ticket, but it will be argued back that Roxas still wouldn’t have risen over his plateau of 18% even without her in the contest.

In my view, it has been Miriam SantiagoDefensor’s candidacy that was the most cynical. She knows she’s sick, and she’s failed in the contest twice already. So it’s not a remote speculation that she just did t for the money to pay for her medical bills, and then some, even if that meant foisting Bongbong Marcos as a credible contender for the Vice Presidency.

And so, for the centrists, liberals and thinking class, from Binay being the initial bogey to Grace serving as possible fresh hope, it now appears that a bigger bogey is poised to take the pie. Heaven help us, many are beginning to exclaim.

The sane view is to hope that the majority that would have voted him in had the right feel all along, that Duterte can effect the positive radical change they’ve wanted — once he manages to chuck off all those bogeyman aspects that disturb people who prefer to keep their children civilized and respectful of human life, rights and liberties.

KEEPING UP WITH THE CONGEN > Tales from your friendly neighbourhood Philippine Consul-General.

The Net Bias By > Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes

Not all active posters were helpful though in forming a venn diagram of public opinion. Some were just rabid bullies, ready to pounce and clobber the others who refused to join the bandwagon.

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Watching the third and last debate for the 2016 Philippine Presidential race together with members of the Filipino community in Dubai was a revelation of character. No – not of those running for President but of the Filipino people – particularly overseas Filipinos who have been touted as the swing vote.

Two weeks to the finish line, it appeared that this race would be determined by the millions of avid FB’ers and inveterate Twitters. Like many Overseas Filipinos, I constantly checked my wall, which as the election drew nearer was drowning with posts that sang hosannas and praises for certain candidates, status updates that ballyhooed favored politicians. I would peruse as diligently as I could through all posts and comments and from there, I convinced myself that I was knowledgeable of what the Filipino nation thought were answers to pressing societal issues.

Not all active posters were helpful though in forming a venn diagram of public opinion. Some were just rabid bullies, ready

to pounce and clobber the others who refused to join the bandwagon.

Others were academics who would post tediously long dissertations and analyses of the issues surrounding the candidates.

Many chose to be silent spectators to the cacophony of Philippine elections.

Web statisticians estimate that internet penetration rate in the Philippines is 43.5% representing about 47 million out of 102 million Filipinos. I suppose it would safe to assume that those with the capability to surf the net would also have access to Facebook or other social media.

Undeniably therefore, we have to contend with the millions of those without access to the internet, they who are apparently uninformed of the jostling world of FB and Twitter, they who are oblivious to thought processes of their digital kabayans.

Being offline has become unfathomable for many of us Overseas Filipinos. The net is our most effective way to keep in touch with our families back home and is our primary news source. Inability to access the web seemingly strips us of the capacity

to feel through what others think and what they have to say about issues and consequently make supposedly informed, rational decisions about governance and public policy. Thus, many argue that the majority of our fellowmen, who do not have the information we are flooded with day in day out, cannot possibly participate intelligently and perceptively in electoral discourse. This majority is dismissed as blind and ignorant citizens whose opinions on the country do not matter.

When surrounded only by those who agree with us, when corralled with similar minds, we tend to repudiate other permutations of truths. We reject the notion that parallel versions of reality can be necessarily valid as well. We convince ourselves that only our perceptions matter and all else is relegated as deformities of logic, unworthy of consideration. And as we, Overseas Pinoys, slide down this treacherous slope of bias, we sadly become unprepared for the realization that it is us who are cut off from the numbing reality that defines our motherland.

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LAW

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Get right with the rules. Here’s how.

Dubai Code of Conduct: The Bare Essentials By> Barney Almazar, Esq.

Before you show off your itsy, bitsy, teenie, weenie, yellow polka-dot bikini along Jumeirah beach, take time to read the Dubai Code of Conduct issued by the Executive Council outlining provisions on decency, beaches, public display of affection. The culture, customs and traditions of the UAE and its people should be respected by adopting courtesy and moderation and avoiding all types of improper behavior in the emirates.

Beaches, Clothing, PDA, etc.

According to Clause 1.3, beachgoers, both men and women, shall wear conservative swimwear that is acceptable to Dubai’s culture. Swimwear shall not be worn outside the beach, as decent dress is the rule in the rest of the city. Nudity is strictly forbidden in every part of the city and is liable to be punished by imprisonment or deportation.

When in public places such as streets, shopping malls and restaurants, shorts and skirts shall be of appropriate length.

Clothing shall not indecently expose parts of the body, be transparent, or display obscene or offensive pictures and slogans.

Displays of affection among couples whether married or not - in public places does not fit the local customs and culture.

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tolerated but kissing and petting are considered an offence to public decency.

Randomly addressing women in public places is punishable by imprisonment or deportation.

Loud music and dancing are forbidden in parks and beaches.

Photos of people and especially photos of women and families, in public places shall not be taken without their permission.

Taking photos of people is a sensitive issue in Dubai’s local culture.

And finally, Clause 5.3 prohibits all practices that threaten the marine environment or the safety of marine life through any type of pollution. Fishing is only allowed with a license from the competent authorities.

Alcohol Clause 2.2 requires alcohol consumption to be confined to designated areas (i.e. licensed restaurants and venues that serve alcohol to their clients). Being caught under the effect of alcohol outside these places (even in light doses) can lead to a fine or incarceration.

LAW

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Get right with the rules. Here’s how.

Alcohol is exclusively sold by specialized licensed stores. It can only be bought by holders of an alcohol-purchasing license (this license is only attainable by nonMuslims). Buyers shall respect the local culture by carrying their alcohol in paper bags such that it cannot be seen.

The UAE has adopted a zero-tolerance policy in terms of driving under the effect

of alcohol. Being caught driving with even the smallest dose of alcohol can lead to deportation.

as being tested positive for any drug by the authorities in the UAE is considered a crime.

Clause 2 deals with substance abuse: The consumption of alcohol as well as any other drug or psychotropic substance is strictly prohibited in Islam and is punishable by law. Holding, consuming, buying or selling any kind of drug, in any quantity, as well

Smoking is not allowed in government facilities, offices, malls and shops. Smoking outside designated areas is subject to fine.

Below is the table of offence and applicable penalty in the Code of Conduct:

Offence

Penalty

Public display of affection

Warning or fine (in case of severe breach can lead to jail and/or deportation)

Alcohol consumption outside designated areas

Fine or jail

Buying alcohol without an alcohol license

Fine or jail

Driving under the effect of alcohol or any other drug

Fine, jail and/or deportation - car confiscation

Drug consumption or possession

Fine, jail and deportation

Lack of respect for Islam's customs and symbols

Fine, jail and deportation

Lack of respect for other religions' customs and symbols

Fine or jail

Vulgar language

Fine or jail

Littering and spitting

Warning or fine

Pet fouling public areas

Warning or fine

Damaging public facilities

Fine

Respect for environment

Warning or fine (cf. Federal Law No. 24/1999 on the protection and development of environment)

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ADVERTORIAL

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Pure Gold Group announces AED 1.2 Billion GCC expansion plan UAE-based award winning retail conglomerate, Pure Gold Group has announced plans to invest AED1.2 billion to expand its regional operations by the year 2030.

While the primary investment of AED1 Billion will be in the jewelry sector, the company will also invest AED200 Million in other sectors andin its luxury sunglasses retail chain La Moda Sunglasses to open 150 stores by 2030.

The expansion is driven by confidence in the GCC market as stated by Firoz Merchant, Philanthropist, Founder and Chairman of Pure Gold Group, “Despite the decline in oil prices, governments across GCC are confident of future growth and have revealed plans to further diversify from an oil-based economy.

We are truly inspired by the system of governance and the solution-oriented

Filipino Favorites at Manila Grill Manila Grill is the new Filipino fine dining restaurant located at the ground floor of Asiana Hotel offering Philippine favourites. The venue has stylish and cozy dining interiors, luxurious private VIP rooms, a chic full bar set up, as well as soothing live music and a wood charcoal grill.

Open for lunch and dinner with special combo and group packages, Manila Grill can cater for any event and is good for families, as well as friends and associates. With seating up to 140 people, it is the new hotspot for Filipinos in the UAE. For reservations, please contact - 04 608 2140. illustrado go>18

approach of the Rulers of the GCC. With GCC’s strategic plan to reduce its economic dependence on oil, and the recent “Saudi Vision 2030” plan unveiled by the Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, investors and businesses in the region are strongly assured of growth and stability. As part of our expansion plan, we aim to double the current number of Pure Gold Jewellers outlets and the staff numbers in GCC, to meet anticipated future demand.”

Merchant also said the investment climate in the region is more favourablenow with continued government support for development and infrastructure, expected population growth to double, greater expected growth in tourism and introduction of new technologies to weather harsh climate in the region.

Filipino Progress & Diversity

Arch. Shay Michaela Tan, UAP Architect/Designer Office Inspirations – Dubai, UAE I graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Architecture in 2014 and went to Dubai at age 20. Looking for a job abroad at such a young age was quite challenging especially in my profession as a Designer, where creativity is assessed in different ways.

Prospective employers were either utterly impressed or utterly doubtful of my abilities and knowledge for the craft. But having said that, I was blessed to land a job that now allows me to live my dream career, in a company that rewards me for my ideas and contributions.

Catherine Ordonez-Rivera Corporate Human Resources Manager Transgulf Readymix Concrete Co. LLC – Dubai, UAE

I currently work as an Architect-Designer, concentrating on space planning, conceptual design, furniture and technology proposals. My job also entails competencies in 3D visualization and graphical presentation. I am very much involved with commercial, retail, education and hospitality projects. While working, I have decided to take my career to the next level, and aimed to be a licensed Architect.

It was 6 months of intense preparation, and proper time management was a necessity.

It was very exhausting because I had to go to review classes after work and during weekends, but it was all worth it. It was by God’s grace that I succeeded.

Every day for me is a different story. I always carry this verse with me from the Book of Proverbs: “Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” I treat my life as an everyday blessing. I spend most of my hours at work brainstorming and collaborating with my colleagues, but I try to step out of routines and do other things that can develop me socially, professionally and spiritually. During break time, I watch

At The Work Place >

tutorials and read articles that help me expand my sphere of interests. Time is a chance, and every chance is a privilege.

Word of advice to my fellowmen: let your faith be bigger than your fears. Learn to see the good side in everything. It is good to be mindful of the opinion of others, but make sure to stand by your principle and use it as an advantage. It is okay if you don’t get the “perfect” job; just believe that God has a plan prepared for you. If you lose a project, trust that there will be thousands more out there, and you will find them. If you fall a hundred times, God will be there a hundred times to lift you up. Your journey will never be perfect, and there are no shortcuts.

Make sure you have enough nails to build a house, because if you lose one, your house will never be at its best. Just like what Carlton Fisk said, “It’s not what you achieve; it’s what you overcome that defines your career”.

With a focus on Strategic Planning, Organizational Development & Performance Management, I work as HR Manager of one of the preferred ready-mix concrete company in the Gulf. I manage and oversee all HR functions namely but not limited to Talent Management, Compensation & Benefits, Training and Development, Performance Management. In addition to my HR role, I also manage our QHSE team (Quality, Health, Safety and Environment), ensuring compliance and strict implementation of our Integrated Management System (IMS).

make sure that I have taken care of my online business and other entrepreneurial tasks.

Striving for work-life balance is typical for me. I always start my day with a plan - may it be for the day or for the week, even for a month. I set my plan based on priorities and urgency. My typical 8 hours at work involves administrative, operational and strategic work-related tasks. After a busy day at work, I make sure that I have time for myself, my husband, and my son. I also

My advice to my fellow Filipinos abroad: dream big! Sky’s the limit. Determine you goals and strive hard towards achieving them. Plan how you are going to succeed!

I’ve been working in Transgulf for as long as I’ve been living in Dubai: almost 8 years.

I was promoted as the HR Manager at the age of 24. In an industry dominated by men, I am proud to be the only lady and Filipina in our Management team. I am also actively involved in different outreach programs and community involvement services and have served served as an officer of a non-profit organization.

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ADVERTORIAL

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The spring women’s GUESS collection is a denim-focused assortment injected with unique, light-weight pieces that deliver an instant trend-focused look.

GUESS launches its Spring Summer’16 collection

GUESS previewed its stunning Spring Summer 2016 collection yesterday at a themed fashion show at Al Qasr Hotel, Dubai. The crowd witnessed fashionable trends, exquisite designs and luxurious silhouettes in bright colors across Womenswear and Menswear. The show also showcased fashionforward accessories to serve the spring summer wardrobe.

The spring women’s GUESS collection is a denim-focused assortment injected with unique, light-weight pieces that deliver an instant trend-focused look.

Denim and chambray are seen in many silhouettes featuring fresh new takes on detailing including a classic denim jacket reimagined using three-tone patchwork detailing, a 70’s inspired chambray dress with wide-bell sleeves with a thick braided belt to accentuate the waistline. Spring’s color palette goes for a tonal approach using clean whites and shades of tan and beige. White distressed denim and islandready delicate lace dresses and off-the-

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shoulder tops in crisp white are complemented by the rich earthy neutral tones in the form of tops, shorts and a buttery leather jacket. A standout print from the spring collection is a beautiful white and blue floral print reminiscent of the bold color palette seen throughout Greece.

Iconic gingham printed peplum dresses and long-sleeve buttondown tops knotted at the waist are styles reminiscent of vintage GUESS and serve as timeless garments for any GUESS girl’s wardrobe.

This season, modern slim-fit button-down shirts in white, chambray and eye-catching patterns dominate the men’s GUESS spring collection and serve as a seasonal staple that’s never going out of style. Moving away from the more distressed and structured styles from colder seasons, the GUESS Guy opts for a more effortless cool vibe wearing laid-back blue and white jeans and shorts paired with unbuttoned shirts with rolled up sleeves.

The Marciano Spring ’16 collection include wide-legged striped knit pants with subtle sparkle detailing, sexy and sheer lace flares as well as a chic black body suit with a luxe, lace-up neck that reveals just the right amount of skin. Effervescent florals in peach, fuchsia, coral and teal in light-weight maxi dresses and romantic

tops cater to Spring’s brighter color palette and add a touch of femininity to your look.

Sophisticated fit and flare dresses and twopiece pencil skirts paired with matching crop tops are transitional garments that remain fashionable when the warmer months fade away.

The handbag assortment offers a selection of fashion-forward designs that cater to Spring’s hottest trends including drawstring bucket bags, oversized totes and structured satchels in a wide range of textures and patterns. In a departure from GUESS’ classic G monogram, the logo is re-invented using pops of 3-D G cubes for a modernized take on the print. Perforated faux-leather, dark-washed frayed denim and edgy checkerboard exteriors make a statement this season and are injected into the group to deliver flair to any GUESS Girl’s outfit. For footwear, lace-up gladiator and 70’s inspired fringe are trend-driven elements added to several styles including sandals, block heels and platform wedges in a variety of heights, colors, prints and fabrications. Shoes in rich buttery caramels, crisp whites and pastel yellow hues lend a more subtle approach to your look, while silver and bronze metallic shades, sexy snakeskin and boho fauxsuede undoubtedly add glamour to an otherwise subdued ensemble.

Look for this new spring summer 2016 collection at GUESS, Marciano and Accessories stores in UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, KSA, Qatar, Egypt and Lebanon.

MONEY

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Make money. Ma intain that money. Money pa more!

The richest is not the person who hass the most, but the person who need the least.

THE STAGES OF FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE By> Francisco Colayco

I have often been asked - “How do you achieve financial independence, slowly, “step by step”/ “age by age”? Is there a checklist of goals per age - like in your 20s, you should at least have saved up this much, and then maybe also have a car?

And in your 30s, you should have a place of your own, be putting your kids through school and then in your 40s thinking about retirement?”

Financial independence is in stages. Each stage is not dependent on your age but what you have achieved in terms of financial growth. In my book “Wealth Within Your Reach”, I talk about the four fundamental financial life stages, namely Start-up Stage This is when your only source of income is your salary or earnings provided by your active participation in terms of time and talent.

Build-up Stage This is when you now have some income coming from savings and investments, which contribute about at least 20% of your total income.

Asset Allocation Stage This is when your savings and investments provide a good portion, around 30-60%, of your income.

Retirement Stage This is when the income from your savings and investments is your only source to support your living expenses.

Your financial goals and the tools to achieve those goals are unique to your current life stage. You must be able to match the tools to use with the goals of that life stage. These life stages are not dependent on your age. Some young people are already in their Asset Allocation Stage and unfortunately, some old people are still in their Start-up Stage.

These tools are available to all of us.

Given time and the knowledge of these financial tools, correctly using the same, our accumulation of true and meaningful wealth is assured. The key in all of this is your definition of your financial goals with specific timelines. We always say that growing your wealth must be purposedriven. Your purpose in accumulating specific amounts in assets at your desired time or date in the future, will determine the level of risk and the alternative

investment instruments that would be appropriate for you. In essence, know how much you want, when you want it and why.

One article like this can get you started but it took me two books and five small support books to explain the rules and steps to help you get to your financial independence.

These are “easy reading” books. It is not because I am selling my books, but it has been proven by the millions who have read it that it will change your financial life for the better. If you will definitely decide that you want to be financially literate when it comes to your personal money, you should be determined to study particularly “Wealth within your Reach and “Making Your Money Work” and be disciplined to follow its advice.

There are statements that should set your attitude towards your personal wealth.

Remember You are wealthy when you do not have to actively or physically work for money to maintain your chosen lifestyle.

“The richest is not the person who has the most, but the person who needs the least.”

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What to do yani? K. Here.

ILLUSTRADO CALENDAR

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Here are the things that you can do, places you can visit and activities you can enjoy beginning this month of May!

2016

B y > S h e r r y Te n o r i o

M AY

Rush to Vote 9th April to 9th May 2016 Have you voted for the highest seat of power in the Philippines? If you haven’t practised your right just yet, don’t fret, you still have time to run to the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, and take part in the Overseas Absentee Voting until the 9th of May2016.

Relive history 1st to 31st May 2016 A traditional dhow race is being held this month in commemoration of the UAE’s pearl diving history. The Al Gaffal Traditional 60ft Dhow Race 2016 will cruise through Sir Bu Nair, 50 nautical miles off the coast and finish at various locations such as Mina Seyahi or The Burj Al Arab. To best enjoy this traditional sporting event, the Dubai RTA offers ferry rides that follow the racers at various points around the marina.

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Learn the ABCs of aviation 9th to 11th May 2016 If the world of aviation fascinates you then you’re going to have a great time at the Dubai Airport Show. Considered as one of the largest airport related exhibitions in the world, the show returns this year with an improved program.

Open for free to trade professionals and general public, the Airport Show 2016 takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Theatre time with family 10th to 13th May 2016 Spend quality time with your kids with a visit to the theatre, and catch the classic tale of James and the Giant Peach. Your little tots will definitely enjoy the live staging of this amazing story at DUCTAC. Tickets are priced at a minimum of AED195.

Enhance your entrepreneurial skills 13th to 14th May 2016 The perfect opportunity for enhancing your business acumen comes this month of May. With the Philippine Business Council’s Franchising Seminar, you’ll be provided essential information about acquiring a master franchise as well as a chance to network with respected Philippine franchisors seeking expansion opportunities in the UAE. What is more exciting is the presence of the Founder and President of GMB Franchise Developers, Armando “Butz” Bartolome, as the seminar’s key speaker. A sure venue to learn and network, the 2-day Franchising Seminar is happening at the Ramada Hotel, Mina Road, Dubai.

What to do yani? K. Here.

ILLUSTRADO CALENDAR

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2016

M AY

Burst your bubble 19th to 21st of May 2016 A one-of-a-kind bubble show, complete with laser acts and 3D stunts, will surely change the way you look at bubbles. For the first time, the family spectacle is to be staged at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Tickets to this incredible live entertainment range from AED 149 to AED 1999.

Learn more about your child’s education 13th to 14th May 2016 To know about the various options for your children’s early learning, attend the Early Years Education Exhibition (EYEDEX) and meet more than 70 nurseries, early childhood intervention/special needs centers, educational material suppliers, education fund management advisors, and experts in the field of early childhood education. The free admission exhibition is happening at Conrad Dubai.

Watch Armin Van Buuren perform live 20th May 2016 Famous DJ Armin Van Buuren, is set to rock the clubbing scene of Dubai with his upcoming gig, a part of his ‘Armin Only Embrace’ world tour. Taking place at the Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse in Nad Al Sheba, the spectacular live concert is priced from AED 299 to AED 650.

Dance the tango 18th to the 21st of May 2016 This month, the Dubai Tango Festival comes back on its 8th season with a remarkable line up of activities including workshops and gala dinner. The 3-day dance extravaganza is taking place at the Meydan Hotel.

Tickets are priced at AED 350.

Catch the battle of squash 24th to 28th of May 2016 The Professional Squash Association (PSA) World Series that began in October last year, and toured in seven locations around the world including New York and Chicago, has reached its final destination in Dubai. The finals of the international squash season will be witnessed at the state-of-the-art squash court and innovative spectator venue to be constructed in Burj Park, Downtown Dubai.

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SCRAPBOOK >

DANNY LADA ABU DHABI-UAE

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SCRAPBOOK >

ANTHONY TARIO AUSTRIA ABU DHABI-UAE

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ENTERTAINMENT

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Because there’s no business like showbusiness. Boom panes!

By> Kristine Abante – Dubai

GMA Kapuso Teleseryes to be Adapted for Latin America On the heels of the recent announcement of a Mexican adaptation of GMA show Munting Heredera, two more Kapuso dramas — Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real and My Destiny — will soon follow suit.

“It was our goal to penetrate the Latin American market this year,” says Roxanne Barcelona, Vice President of GMA Worldwide, Inc. (GWI), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Kapuso Network.

Celebrating two decades of showcasing GMA programs to the rest of the world, GWI has evolved with the changes in the industry since it was established as the network’s content acquisition and distribution arm back in February 1996.

Through GWI, Kapuso shows are widely available in most of Southeast Asia, Hawaii, several countries in Africa, and soon in Eastern Europe. Last February, MuntingH eredera found its way to Latin American audiences after Mexican company Telefilm Atlantico acquired the program’s rights. It was a milestone in itself as it marked the first time that a homegrown GMA program would be adapted in Latin America.

Coinciding with this sale was major Canadian broadcasting company Rogers Media’s acquisition of a multi-title bundle of HD GMA titles including My Destiny, Second Chances and Beautiful Strangers.

These shows will air exclusively on Roger’s free TV channel.

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4th Impact Gear up for World Domination The Cercado sisters, Mylene, Celina, Irene and Almira who slayed on the X-Factor UK stage performed live in Dubai on the 29th of April at the Al Nasr Leisureland.

With a growing fan base all over the world, the four talented siblings have been singing together since 2001, joining every competition they could get into before they ended up on the X Factor stage.

They won on ‘It’s Showtime‘s’ talent search in 2012 and have been in the top eight of Korean music contest Superstar K. They also won the World Championships of Performing Arts contest – twice, and during their audition on UK X-Factor 2015 they blew the judges away with their solid performance, making them a global phenomenon almost overnight.

Gaining over 45 million views and counting on Youtube, the exceptional group have also been tapped to share the stage with International hit makers Kanye West and Wiz Khalifa. Talks of a debut album are also in the works for these four talented Pinay sisters. A world tour has also been planned for them targeting places such as UAE, US, Australia and Canada.

PIa Wurtzbach lauds first plus-size Miss Peru contestant Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach took to Instagram to laud Mirella Paz Baylon, who is reportedly the first plus-size contestant to make it to the Top 10 of the Miss Peru pageant.

Following her short stay in the Philippines, Wurtzbach visited Peru where she sat as one of the judges in its annual beauty competition.

Sharing a photo of them on Instagram, Wurtzbach referred to Baylon as an “inspiration” and “the one who made a statement.”

“I applaud this girl for fighting for what she wants. That’s what it’s all about. Happy to know that we’ll be seeing Mirella again at the next Miss Peru pageant! Felicedades,” she said. Wurtzbach said Baylon’s “presence alone on that stage made a huge statement globally.”

It was Valeria Piazza who won in this year’s Miss Peru pageant.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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ART DIRECTOR>ILLUSTRATOR> STREET PHOTOGRAPHER

RAFAEL VALENCIA

Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

I got into art simply out my frustration to create. I stuck to it because I want to create without a reason. I’m an Art Director by day, and everything I do in the day has a reason. My personal work has none, yet it exists to please me.

I do Illustration and Street Photography as well. I like doing them because they are fun to do.

Street photography is where I capture things that make me happy, and illustration is for when I draw things I just happen to be into.

My photography influences my illustration, where I tend to recently do illustrations that look like street label look books. I like designing some of the clothes and patterns, mixing whatever I like or suits the character I’m drawing.

I mainly do most of my creation lately on my iPad Pro. It’s a nice comfortable experience, and the iPad pencil gives the illustration experience the most fun I’ve had in a long time. I use an Olympus em5mk2 for photos, I like this particular camera as it’s versatile and lets me take gorgeous night photos without a tripod. This set-up really lets me experiment and enhance my craft.

Project wise, my highlights include working with the Brownmokeys. Collaborating with them has allowed me to channel my skills differently, and challenged me artistically. Through them, I’ve improved not only my personal work, but created my own niche that enhances my skill set in the work place as well. I even had my first exhibition with Brownmonkeys called Wasta in 2014 at FN Design Gallery – Alserkal Avenue.

The hardest part of art or staying creative is sticking to it. Just keep working, but try to find purpose in doing it, even if it’s just to entertain yourself.

Check out Rafael Valencia’s work at www. rafaelgvalencia.com

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Celebrating Filipin o artistry, passion, and cleverness.

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

HELENA ALEGRE Jewelry Designer

It might be difficult to emerge from the shadow of a successful artist. Not so for Helena Alegre, wife and muse of renowned painter Hermes Alegre, whose brilliance and dedication to jewelry design has allowed her to shine in her own right. A top finalist at the National Jewelry Design Competition sponsored by the Guild of Philippine Jewelry, as well as at the Creative Asean Jewelry Design Contest, where she was the youngest in her category, she had a busy 2015 collaborating with Philippine fashion and CITEM designers.

This year, Helena is working on a series of commissions as well as a collaboration exhibit with Bahay Nakpil Museum and Dona Petrona Nakpil (Joyeria Nakpil). She is also gearing to mount her second one woman show while continuing her study on metallurgy and gemstones.

Here, she talks to us about her passion and her kooky obsession with insects.

My passion My passion for designing and creating sculptural jewelry in silver is a combination of science and the art of manipulating metals and silversmithing. I love art, science, music and beautiful things. I combine all of them with my designs in jewelry. Thinking about innovating on existing designs keeps me busy and sane.

Culturally, I am able to me promote our hometown Paracale and Daet, Camarines Norte, where we are known for traditional

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filigree designs and where I learned the art of silversmithing. As an entrepreneur, it also makes me happy that in my own small way, I can provide jobs and opportunities within our industry. I get to exhibit my works in collaboration with the Dept. of Trade & Industry - Daet, Cam. Norte and also get the chance to exhibit at prestigious art exhibitions and art galleries in Manila.

My passion expands my point-of-view and I get to know a lot of people from all walks of life.

My Process I always start with a positive attitude and nice atmosphere. Flowers in my studio and at the dining table are a must. Every morning, I have my “muni muni” and coffee at Bagasbas beach. I listen to classicals and opera, and then blues while working.

I stay locked inside my studio. I isolate myself from the real world and that’s where the magic begins.

From conceptualizing new designs, I hand-draw each piece, then when I’m ready, I melt the silver and press it into the laminador (rolling mill). I do play when I work. I enjoy cutting, bending, engraving, manipulating metals and polishing it.

Comfort food, coffee and good music make me creative. I also wander around the beach looking for objects that can be used as reference. I derive inspiration from nature. I love Coleoptera (beetles), Lepidoptera (butterflies) and Odonata

(dragonfly). I am an entomologist by heart and give scientific names to my jewelry!

In my lifetime, I don’t think I’lll be able to execute the 350,000 species of beetles but still, I am doing it!

What makes my art distinctive?

I always tell people “res ipsa loquitor” or let my art speak for itself. I want to hear from people and art critics what they think of my art rather than to explain what I think of my art. Although, some say that my art is polished yet raw, intricate yet minimal, feminine yet bold and provocative.

There’s always balance and softness with each pieces that I create. They tell stories and there’s always a part of myself in that design.

Advice to young artists • Every artist need time to wander to get inspired!

• Never copy or compete with other artists.

At the end of the day, it is only you and your art that matters.

• Just be yourself. What others think of you and your art is none of your business. Just believe in yourself and go after your dream.

• Be an inspiration to others. It’s lonely on top. Let others accompany you. The world is too big to embrace all the blessings.

Share it with someone.

• “Follow what your heart desires and you will find your treasure.” - my fave quote from The Alchemist(Paulo Coelho)

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Never copy or compete with other artists. At the end of the day, it is only you and your art that matters.

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FEATURE >

In the shackles of anti-intellectualism By>

A

R ex Ve n a rd B a c a r r a

passage in the book, ‘A Canticle for Leibowitz’, by science fiction writer Walter Miller, echoes resoundingly what ails the Filipinos’ global progression-

culture that many Filipinos brand those that ask questions and explain clearly and elegantly as elitist. When confronted with a confounding answer, the convenient retort is typically, “Eh di, kaw na!”

“Ignorance is king. Many would not profit by his abdication. Many enrich themselves by means of his dark monarchy. They are his court, and in his name they defraud and govern, enrich themselves and perpetuate their power. Even literacy they fear, for the written word is another channel of communication that might cause their enemies to become united.”

Politicians embrace the vestiges of anti-intellectualism with untruths, masquerading as the poor who grew up with “asin” and “daing” as the staple; as nognogs, foundlings, because to do so is to appeal to the emotion of the masses and not to the intellect.

Many of our leaders’ seemingly magnanimous support for antiintellectualism, is a fortifying factor why we, as Filipinos, are unable to become globally competitive. Anti-intellectualism opposes critical thinking, intellectual pursuits, the ability and skill to ask questions, to examine critically, and to provide options. This cancer of the intellect has embedded itself in the fiber of our

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Bold strokes of anti-intellectualism are rife in our entertainment industry where the portrayal of ad miserecordiam (appeal to pity) is malignant. TV shows feature recurring themes of poverty, kidnapping, half-sisters, evil twin, mistresses, and slapping with a crescendo of shouting matches. Scripts are written with actors in mind, instead of actors auditioning for the characters in scripts. Celebrities loom large, towering over story lines. The viewers’ sense of loyalty to the actors

FEATURE >

“Ignorance is king. Many would not profit by his abdication. Many enrich themselves by means of his dark monarchy. They are his court, and in his name they defraud and govern, enrich themselves and perpetuate their power.

Even literacy they fear, for the written word is another channel of communication that might cause their enemies to become united.”

becomes their form of entertainment, negating the fact that artistic endeavors, no matter the medium, should instruct and feed the mind, and TV producers are only too willing to recycle and to give the same trash in intermittence because it is easier, cheaper, and emotionally manipulative.

Alex Ross, writer at the New Yorker, in his critique of pop culture through the eyes of the philosophers of the Frankfurt School - Walter Benjamin and Theodor Adorno, observes the predicament our society is in - “Celebrities are rising to the status of secular gods: publicity stills froze their faces in the manner of religious icons. Pop musicians elicit Dionysian screams as they danced across the altar of the stage. And their aura became, in a sense, even more magical: instead of drawing pilgrims from afar, the pop masterpiece is broadcast outward, to a captive world congregation.

It radiates and saturates.”

Laziness and self-interest by those in power are the aggravating factors that

have made anti-intellectualism an accepted way of life. This is why we don’t have enough scientists, inventors, philosophers and such, because we are not encouraged to be so, but discouraged even. When we cheer the most and become crazier as a nation because we have more Miss Universe titles, and then become apathetic when one amongst us invents a lamp that runs with just water and salt, then we are still crawling, chasing but the shadows of progression, whimpering behind the coattails of the master.

What needs to be done? The problem is deeply rooted in culture, and only a habitual de-threading of this particular fiber will allow us to gain back what we once had before the dawn of the Marcoses in the 60s. This will entail willpower from the leader and discipline from the ones led. The next President should resist, altogether condemn, political patronage, and Congress itself should put a premium to its educational budget for the intellectualization of the young.

USAPANG

ILLUSTRADO >

Say no to usapang barbero. Dapat, Illustrado!

What is holding Filipinos back?

GIOVANNI PALEC, ESQ. Deputy Consul General – Philippine Consulate General – Dubai & Northern Emirates

Filipinos are not being held back from progressing and being able to compete globally. There are numerous examples of Filipinos who are recognized in their fields of competence. Of course, the more popular ones who are known in the global stage are people like Leah Salonga, Monique Lhuillier, and Manny Pacquiao, and Michael Cinco. They have shown that with drive, passion, and determination, Filipinos can progress and be globally competitive.

Ask employers here in Dubai and many, if not most, will express their preference for a Filipino. We are known to be hardworking, competent, skillful, adaptive and dependable. This only emphasizes that the Filipino has the intellect, talent and qualifications to progress and be able to compete globally.

However, despite these shining examples, there is a perception that there are not enough Filipinos who are progressing and becoming globally competitive – there is a seeming lack of Filipino global achievers.

What is hindering Filipinos from “blowing out the competition”? There are so many factors which one can point to, but the one major factor that limits us is our mindset.

One’s mindset determines our ambition, drive and persistence. This is formed through experiences, culture, education, social background and even religion and also reflects our values, priorities and motivation in life. How does this relate to

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the question? A distinct example comes to mind. A kabayan complains that her superior (another nationality relatively new to the job) is incompetent and relies heavily on her. She says senior management had, in fact, considered her for that position when her previous superior left, as they were aware of her competence. But she passed the offer, not wanting the added responsibility. She said she was already satisfied with the salary that she was receiving.

Some will call this is a missed opportunity.

Then there are those who will agree with her decision. For them, it is enough to have a secured job and being able to provide for the needs of the family, although they might be more competent than others. So what can be done to have more Filipinos advance? For me it’s changing the latter mindset – making Filipinos believe that that they can actually do and achieve more and that, they should not to settle for less than they deserve.

But how does one change? First, become aware of your own mindset - reflect on your life, goals and aims and the steps you have to take. I am encouraged that are now more Overseas Filipinos taking advantage of opportunities abroad. There are also more organizations providing lessons on financial literacy, investment and entrepreneurship. Hopefully, even our compatriots back home will be able to attend such sessions. From there, we can evolve our mindsets into one that believes that we can be more; we can do more and achieve more in life. Once that happens, the Philippines as well as the Filipino people, wherever they are, will be prosperous, successful and globally progressive.

KHADIJAH SALIH Freelance Journalist & Program Producer Singapore

Filipinos have always been a part of the global arena. We have the history to prove it - from our multi-talented heroes to famous celebrities, couturiers, athletes, chefs and beauty queens to the rising number of Overseas Filipinos. So it’s not a question of how we can compete. We are already doing it. The better question for me is - how do we get more Filipinos, if not all, at the global level so we can be a progressive nation? As Filipinos, we should have a better understanding of our national identity. Instead of having pride, we should have more respect for being a Filipino. We should endeavor to improve ourselves in everything we do and stop the “ningas kugon” mindset. It’s no longer good enough to be hospitable and hardworking.

We have the talent to do more. And I think these will be possible if we put a stop to complacency and playing the blame game; by being responsible citizens, ensuring that every child has access to quality education, holding one another accountable and promoting transparency in the country.

When these happen, I can definitely say it will be more fun in the Philippines.

USAPANG

ILLUSTRADO >

Say no to usapang barbero. Dapat, Illustrado!

DR. ROMMEL PILAPIL SERGIO Professor, Canadian University - Dubai

Just like any cultural group on earth, Filipinos have strengths and setbacks. We are renowned across the globe for our distinct interpersonal skills and hospitality, innate creativity, and world-class talent.

Upfront, there are manifold factors that hold back a Filipino from progressing.

Being a global educator, I can bank on education. The number of years of basic and pre-university education remains not within international standards (in the absence of K-12). As a repercussion, Filipino aspirants fail to leverage opportunities for college scholarships or in post-graduate studies, even if they are qualified in terms of cognitive ability.

There is also an impact on employment as your degree may not be recognized due to the lacking two years of education.

Invariably, the doctorate degree in the Philippines in most cases is equivalent only to a master’s degree in Canada or in other western countries. A response to this challenge is the government’s K-12 program tagged as “educational highway” that seeks to provide every Filipino, especially the impoverished, with the opportunity to receive globally sound quality education. Lastly, the Philippines still suffers from the stigma of corruption, being a source of cheap manual labor, and extreme poverty. I can only think of ethical and spiritual revival as remedial measures.

Strengthening our moral fiber calls for a change that starts from oneself.

MEI DABALOS CUNTAPAY Academic Writer & Attorney III - Department of Education Division of Tuguegarao, Philippines

Filipinos have no problems in competing globally considering that we belong to a country full of brilliant citizens. The problem with Filipinos is their attitude towards progress, particularly the success of others. Despite the new age, what remains to be a perennial problem in our society is this - while most Filipinos are generally good-natured, such goodnaturedness is destroyed when crab mentality prevails. This has always been the hindrance to our desire to move forward and be at par with other countries.

It might seem like a minor problem but it is like a pest that slowly destroys the pillars of our society and our dream of becoming a better nation. Crab mentality is the fruit of envy and discontent. If only Filipinos would take time to change from within then we could successfully eradicate crab mentality despite it being deeply embedded in our culture. This may seem possible only in a world where idealism reigns but it is my strong belief that if all Filipinos make an effort to change from within, we can conquer crab mentality and move forward as one great nation.

ROUIE VILLEGAS Reporter – Balitang Middle East, TFC - Abu Dhabi

A lot of external factors may hinder an individual to develop a sense of competitiveness. For example, a Filipino may see his own country and its government as a major cause of trouble to its people. We question the system and the motives of the people who run the system. In my opinion, what remains to be the problem, for Filipinos specifically is our attitude towards the world. We tend to find fault in everyone and in everything. We tend to forget that we are a contributing factor to the deteriorating system that we see. And this culture of finding fault gives an atmosphere of fear, instead of encouragement. Instead of looking around, why don’t we look inwardly? As individuals, have we changed for the better yet? It’s all in the mind, they say. Perhaps the deteriorating system that we see in the world is the product of its people’s minds.

We, Filipinos, have so much to offer the world. When each of us starts to become responsible for our own actions, that’s when we develop a spirit of support which, in turn will push us to achieve our full potential. After all, it is our very own selves that we must overcome.

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FASHION

DESIGNER: CHE ARANJUEZ

/gro

Cloak yourself with the armor of style and drama. Hide the sins of vulnerability behind the vanity and conceit of the grotesque.

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FASHION

DESIGNER: YANA ALIAN

tesk/ PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN DEXTER MEDIJA ART DIRECTION: RETCHIE ENREIKKO NAVARRO MINDANAWON FOLKLORE-INSPIRED FASHION BY: YANA ALIAN, CHE ARANJUEZ, QUEENG BRUNIDOR, RHAI DEIPARINE, KIM GANABA, GOLDIE SIGLOS STYLING, HAIR & MAKE-UP: KENNETH VIXENN TOWANNA MODEL: ALEXIE MARIE IBABAO OF GLAM MODEL HOUSE STUDIO: DEXTERITY STUDIOS – DAVAO CITY, PHILIPPINES illustrado go>37

FASHION

DESIGNER: QUEENG BRUNIDOR

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FASHION

DESIGNER: GOLDIE SIGLOS

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FASHION

DESIGNER: KIM GANABA

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FASHION

DESIGNER: RHAI DEIPARINE

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BEAUTY

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Kagandahan 101

The Stylist’s Closet

By> Anna De Leon

Were going back to basics! Looking fabulous and put together 365 days a year doesn't have to be expensive and you don't have to have a closet as massive as, say Carine Roitfeld's! All it takes are what I would call '- The Stylist's Staples. From these basics, you can build your wardrobe. To make looking polished even simpler, do it all in black. Well, only if you can.

THE TANK TOP

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“I tend to like the most basic pieces with the perfect fit and fabric, like a simple tank.”

- Alexander Wang

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Any woman worth her salt should have The Basic White Tank Top. This is a fashion commandment. PERIOD. Why would you not want to have a piece of clothing that is heralded as the Supermodel’s off-duty uniform? Seriously though, this article of clothing can be your best friend at the beach or the perfect piece de resistance to an ensemble for a red carpet event.

Before we go to styling basics, a woman of style should remember that she is only as good looking as the undergarments that she wears with her power ensembles.

Having said that, the importance of wearing the right bra under the tank top, cannot be underlined enough. Below are the three major commandments of The Tank Top:

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Thou shall not wear a black bra when you decide to wear a white tank top.

Thou shall steer clear from lacey ones that peek if you aren’t Giselle Bundchen.

Thou shall choose beige or white ones which do not have any texture. In short a T-shirt bra

STYLING BASICS The Beach Bum Pair your favorite tank top (racer back is my choice) with your favorite Denim shorts.

You can also wear your cute bikini top underneath.

The Classic Celeb Look When you see a celebrity or supermodel off-duty, they will more than likely be wearing this classic ensemble - a tank top, dark blue skinny jeans and a single breasted jacket. This look, although famous already was even made more iconic by Julia Roberts in the movie Pretty Woman.

The Power Look Your tank top and your favorite pant or skirt suit with amazing accessories says - “I am ready to conquer the corporate world!”

The Modern Red Carpet Diva For this look, a spaghetti strap tank top works best. You can pair it with a long black satin skirt. Even the iconic Carrie Bradshaw tulle skirt will be amazing with this one. Cinch your waist with a corset belt and you are ready to wow!

We can go on and on about tank top pairing – there’s just so much possibilities!

Experiment, take selfies of your ensembles and you will realize that you can shop from your own closet. This is just the beginning of a more polished and stylish you!and you will realize that you can shop from your own closet. This is just the beginning of a more polished and stylish you!

WEARING IT WELL

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How to work it when you wear it coz you’re worth it.

Photo by Princess Lovella

Keep it simple. It will last you longer.

MAHRYSKA MARIYAH GASPACHO

STYLE BLOGGER & PHOTOGRAPHER

What role does fashion play in your daily life?

As a style blogger, fashion plays a huge role in my daily life. From the blog, to what I wear and how I live my life - everything basically works around my love for fashion.

So to me, it is very important. There is no “regular me” and a “fashionable me”. It is all in one package.

What do you typically wear daily?

I am not exactly into trends anymore. It comes with age, I guess. My wardrobe is very basic - I prefer clean, simple cuts and classic pieces that last me longer than the usual one-season hit. I do play with a few trends but my look is strictly very minimalist. My regular look is statement skirts, oversized knits and a pair of boyfriend jeans with a basic white shirt or button-down and sneakers.

What’s your favorite thing to wear?

Sneakers and sunglasses.

What can’t you live without?

My camera!

What is your fashion philosophy?

Keep it simple. It will last you longer.

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REAL STYLE, REAL PEOPLE

>

Camille Co > itscamilleco

an Nina Penalosa Criz Penalosa Aggarao .com Carpio >thewayshewears HY PHOTO BY JENCO PHOTOGRAP

Authentic, street-level suave and swankiness.

.com

hotter by the to ents get even istas’ style statem y rises, ouroffashion As the mercur s on the web, from Dubai, stylish Filipino the most York day! Here’s a look at some Manila , New and Milan!

Dino Bancorro > .com dinoxperiment .blogspot Jerome Centeno > thechicstyler .com

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Khel Recuenco

REAL STYLE, REAL PEOPLE

>

Authentic, street-level suave and swankiness.

Joe Dark , Ruffy Khel Recuenco

Natividad and

.com

Nina Penalosa Carpio thewayshewears .com

>

Kryz Uy > thirstythought

Raleene Cabrera> raleene.com

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FOOD

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For the Young, Single, and Hungry

Rest for the wicked By> Nicholo Jallores

CHICKEN DUMPLINGS

We’ve been told there is no rest for the wicked. I’m saying there is.

But like all good things, it has to be earned – or in the context of this piece, cooked.

Because no matter how busy or wickedly ambitious you are, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice something as fundamental as enjoying and preparing your own food.

It can be done. You don’t need to have a culinary degree, a great deal of money, or even 3 hours of your day to be pottering about in the kitchen. You just need a wee bit of focus, imagination, and most importantly, commitment. Life is too short to be wasted on lousy food. Eat well, my friend.

No other meat dispenses comfort as much as the trusty, ever-reliable chicken.

When you come home from work well and properly knackered, it’s not a t-bone steak you long for – you long for a bucket of hot fried chicken. When your soul is down and troubled, you don’t ask for beef bourguignon – you ask for chicken soup.

And chicken soup this is: the richer and more velvety kind, almost like a stew. The kind that heals all ails and makes the world a better place. I can’t write about this and not sound dreamy and googly-eyed, because this is more than just a complete meal to me: this is world peace in a bowl.

FOR THE CHICKEN STEW/SOUP YOU’LL NEED: 3 tbsps of butter or olive oil 1 medium onion, diced 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 carrots, peeled and diced into sizeable chunks (or use those cute little baby carrots. That’ll save a lot of time. You don’t even need to peel those) 2 stalks of celery, diced 1 tsp. dried thyme (double the amount if using fresh) 4 cups of chicken stock (or water + a stock cube. Add more liquid if you want it soupier. Add less if you like it stewier. Just take note that you need enough liquid to

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cook the dumplings) 2 tbsps. all purpose flour 1 kilo of chicken thigh fillets (or bone in thighs and legs. This is not the time to try and be healthful by using chicken breast.)

2 cups of frozen peas salt and freshly milled pepper FOR THE DUMPLINGS YOU’LL NEED: 3/4 cup all purpose flour 1 and a half tsps. baking powder 2 tbsps. chopped parsley 1 tbsp. chopped dill 1/2 + 2 tbsps. of milk salt and freshly milled pepper HOW: 1.) Make the stew. In a nice big pot over medium heat, sauté the garlic, onion in the butter until the onion has become slightly translucent. Bung in the celery and carrots, season with salt and pepper, stir the lot around a bit, then put the lid on and allow it to sweat for a minute to a minute and a half. Add the flour and stir around for 30 seconds. Then add the chicken stock and dried thyme and bring to a simmer. Once

the stock is simmering, lay the chicken pieces and cook over gentle heat for 15-20 minutes.

2.) Make the dumplings. Combine all the ingredients and whisk till you get a lovely goo that’s slightly thicker than pancake batter. If the batter’s too stiff, add a few more tablespoons of milk. You should be able to slide the batter off a spoon.

3.) Now bring it all together. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the simmering chicken stew, keeping them spaced well apart.

These babies will swell and blossom as they cook, so you want to give them enough leg room. Add the peas. Put the lid on and simmer for 10 to 15 more minutes to cook the dumplings. Serve with a few more cracks of black pepper and a scattering of parsley and dill.

Don’t want to bother with the dumplings?

That’s alright. Just make the stew and serve it with crusty bed – or better yet, in a bread bowl.

RIGHT NOW PHILIPPINES

>

By> Excel Diquianco - Manila

Of Batman and Emilio Aguinaldo The last leg of the presidential debate saw a presidential candidate quoting a superhero and another one claiming a hero to be one of his financial “supporters”. Mar Roxas under the

Photo: abs-cbn.com

inventive people even made a video out of this quote by embedding Mar’s voice into a Batman movie.

Likewise Mayor Rodrigo Duterte left some netizens puzzled when asked about his campaign contributors. He simply said, “Emilio Aguinaldo” and went on to answer to the next question.

Some people from cyberspace are still debating what he meant.

The Problem with Identity Theft

Liberal Party in response to a question posed by Miriam Defensor-Santiago said, “As Batman said, it is not important how you came to this world. What is important is what you did with your life.

And my life over the last 20 years has been a public record.” However many people online claim that his quote is far closer to Pokemon’s than Batman’s who said, “I see now that the circumstances of one’s birth are irrelevant; it is what you do with the gift of life that determines who you are.” Some Photo:

With elections just around the corner, nothing can ever go wrong, right?

Nope. It seems that recently hackers penetrated into COMELEC’s database to reveal all sensitive information of voters nationwide. With a specific website address, all personal information such as names and nicknames, dates and places of birth, home and email addresses and even delicate data such as passport numbers and tin numbers are all available for everyone to see.

The website has long been taken down, though, as well as the arrest of one young and shady character. But the question still remains: “Is this going to be a fair and just election?” “What if identity theft gets prevalent?”

A Game of Game of Thrones Like most people worldwide, Pinoys just can’t get enough of Game of Thrones.

The most asked question, “Is Jon Snow dead?” has been lingering in our minds for so many months now; we just couldn’t contain our excitement during the Season 6 premiere week. So when the show finally aired, Filipino netizens just went ballistic as questions have been answered – well, somewhat.

As spoilers to those who have yet to watch Season 6’s Episode 1, memes have appeared online to provoke reactions from die hard GOT fans. The new season opening of the famous HBO series also brought out the best and the worst in people as those who were cheeky enough to leak key episode snippets were “unfriended.” Oh yes, there’s no joking about it - GOT fans, including Filipinos, are pretty serious about their favorite show.

Game of Thrones is definitely one game worth watching.

Photo: Macall B. Polay/HBO – Game of Thrones Facebook

Because of such a dangerous leak, organizations such as the Bangko Sentral have asked the public to take precaution and be vigilant. Some public and private domains have also released tips on how to avoid identity theft.

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FILIPINO

TRAVELER >

Your dose of the world’s awesomeness, as told by certified Pinoy viajeros!

Santiago, Chile By> Chino & Kylene Batin

Santiago is known its unique landscape as it is located between the Andes and the Pacific. Imagine driving two hours up north and you will be 12,040 feet above sea level in Valley Nevado, a ski resort within the breathtaking Andes Mountain. Then, drive west and you will reach Vina del Mar in Valparaiso and you will have a stunning beach, a perfect place to watch the sunset.

A

Among other Latin American cities, Santiago looks like it might have been the favorite place for Spanish conquerors.

The buildings, monuments, churches and architectural sights are very European, ancient but wellmaintained, and very sophisticated. The streets remind you of Paris, as it is home to many restaurants and cafes.

Getting there We flew in from Cancun, Mexico, taking the 7.45 hour flight on-board LAN Airlines.

If you are planning to go straight to Chile from the UAE, you will need connecting flights as both Emirates and Etihad don’t have direct flights. We recommend going via Sao Paolo, Brazil, just because there, we get visa upon arrival.

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Where to stay Stay within the city. Do not book a hotel near the airport as it is quite far from the city. We stayed in Lastaria Santiago Suite which is along Padre Luis de Valdivia in the heart of the metropolis, just walking distance from Plaza de Armas and other tourist spots. Do not expect too much from their 4 star hotels. It is more of just a place to sleep, nothing else. Anyway, you don’t really need a fancy hotel if you plan to be out and about most of the time.

Must do and must see Since Chile is known for producing some of the best wines in the world, you have to visit at least one of their vineyards. Go to Casillero del Diablo, Chile’s oldest winery.

Along the way you will be astounded with the wild roses and other flowers that are a plenty on the highway. We even pulled-over

just to enjoy the fresh fragrant air.

Plaza de Armas is a place Filipinos can relate with, it’s like a more sophisticated Baclaran. The Metropolitan Cathedral in the middle of the plaza is one of a kind. Its baroque decoration with ornate frescos on the ceiling, chandeliers and gilded columns will keep you looking up when you visit. The plaza is also known for the flea markets, as well as international restaurants in the area.

The city’s best kept secret Don’t miss visiting San Cristobal Hill, the counterpart of Christ the redeemer of Rio in Brazil. Instead of Christ standing on top of the hill, here it is the Immaculate Conception, a 22 meter statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. From the entrance, you can go uphill via tram, in your own car or mountain bike or job like the locals

If you have a UAE drivers license, dont forget to bring if you are planning to rent a car. It is acceptable anywhere in South America. One more thing, make sure you have google map app.

In your mobile and ensure you apply for a data roaming package.

Apply for a visa to Chile, at least one month before your travel date.

famous bulalo, which they call calzuela de vacuno. This is because we are both colonized by the Spaniards.

through the 800m rise above sea level.

When we reached the top overlooking Santiago, we experienced an overwhelming sense of peace. Here’s the perfect place to reflect, pray and give thanks.

Do it like the natives Exercise your Spanish skills by using common greetings like hola, buenas dias, como esta, and always say por

favor, if you need something and gracias if you get what you want. These simple words make you feel like you belong when you hear locals respond warmly.

Try eating in their karinderias and you will be surprised to see familiar food just like the ones we have back home in the Philippines like longganisa, mechado, ensalada, bistec (beefsteak) even our

How to dress Pack clothes depending on where you plan to go in Chile and which season. If you go up north, you will need to gear up as it is freezing in the Andes Mountain even during summer. If you are going to Valparaiso, wear beach attire. We went during spring (October) and the weather was still chilly.

The sun shines in the morning, then you have cold breeze during evening. In the city, casual wear is fine. You can wear any comfortable dress. Just note that in the evening, a jacket is must.

What to avoid Taxis are a bit expensive and are hard to deal with, as the drivers mostly don’t speak English. To give you an idea, the airport taxi will cost 8,000 Chilean pesos (roughly AED88). If you don’t want to rent a car, the more affordable option is an airport bus

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FILIPINO

to the city costing 1,500 Chilean Pesos.

Airport to city is approximately 1hr by bus and 30-45minutes by taxi.

Trip budgeting Flights per head, round trip – Cancun, Mexico to Santiago, Chile: AED4,089; visa - AED110 per person; hotel - AED240 per night Lastarria Santiago Suite thru booking. com; car - AED190 per day; fuel full tank AED113; road toll fee – AED60 roundtrip; food and other basics - consider AED250 per day depending on your lifestyle.

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TRAVELER >

Good to know Though they have four seasons, note that in this part of the world, summer is from December to February and winter is in June to August - yes it’s the other way around!

If you have a UAE driver’s license, don’t forget to bring if you are planning to rent a car. It is acceptable anywhere in South America. One more thing, make sure you have google map app. In your mobile and ensure you apply for a data roaming package.

Apply for a visa to Chile, at least one month before your travel date.

FILIPINO

TRAVELER >

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ONLI IN DA PILIPINS

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Filipinisms. Sometimes awesome. Sometimes facepalm.

Classic #Hugot Quotes for Modernday Living

B y > A b y Ya p

Before Popoy’s “She had me at my worst.

You had me at my best.” and Basha’s “Sana ako pa rin. Ako na lang. Ako na lang ulit.” have turned us into big cry-babies, these are the lines that held our moms and titas spellbound. Their hugot power is so strong that we can’t help but relate them to life’s mundane realities.

1. “Once, twice, thrice. Gaano ba kadalas ang minsan?”

Hilda Koronel, Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (1982)

How do you quantify “sometimes” especially when you’re on a diet and you have to limit your rice intake? This calls for a refresher on the adverbs of time.

2. “Kung hindi tayo kikilos, sino ang kikilos? Kung hindi ngayon, kailan pa?”

Vilma Santos, Sister Stella L. (1984)

As in the 80s, procrastination still remains an issue up to this day. Note to ourselves: we need to shake this mañana habit off NOW. 3. “Ayoko ng tinatapakan ako.

Ayoko ng masikip. Ayoko ng mabaho. Ayoko ng walang tubig.

Ayoko ng walang pagkain. Ayoko ng putik!”

Maricel Soriano, Kaya kong Abutin ang Langit (1984)

This is exactly how it’s like to ride the MRT on rainy days. Good luck!

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4. “You’re nothing but a secondrate, trying-hard copycat!”

Cherie Gil, Bituing Walang Ningning (1985)

8. “Pasensya ka na. Hindi ako katulad mong napaka-purrfect!”

Lea Salonga, Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal (1995)

When your BFF-Twinny transforms into your #1 Frenemy and you can no longer stand it, fill a glass with wine and throw it in her/his face while doing this Lavinia speech.

Don’t dare us. We’ll say the last word with an intense twang if you keep pointing out every mistake we make. Though we’re hari/ reyna ng sablay, we’re only human.

5. “Para kang karinderyang bukas sa lahat ng gustong kumain.”

Vilma Santos, Palimos ng Pag-ibig (1986)

9. “Ganyan talaga ang buhay, parang gulong. Minsan nasusunog.”

Rufa Mae Quinto, Booba (2001)

This one is dedicated to all the food pornographers on social media. If you value our friendship, don’t mock our resolve to stick to our diet. You heartless tormentors!

6. Georgia: “Ang problema sa ‘yo, maaga kang ipinanganak!”

Delfin: “Ang problema naman sa ‘yo, huli kang ipinanganak!”

Sharon Cuneta and Fernando Poe Jr., Kahit Konting Pagtingin (1990)

As proven by Bossing and Pauline, (1) age doesn’t matter, (2) love wins anytime, and (3) bashers always lose.

7. “Get out of my house. I don’t need a parasite!”

Maricel Soriano, Separada (1994)

Freeloaders, beware! Pay for your own stuff or we’ll kick you out. This also goes for all the fleas and ticks that feed on our beloved pets’ blood. You’re no Cullens.

Non sequitur? Don’t judge the quote by the movie title. Its profundity could put the Sphinx to shame when you mull over the concept. Because life doesn’t make sense at times.

10. “Oo, inaamin ko, saging lang kami. Pero maghanap ka ng puno sa buong Pilipinas, saging lang ang may puso! Saging lang ang may puso!”

Mark Lapid, Apoy sa Dibdib ng Samar (2006)

When you don’t know what to say to hecklers anymore, try this. Almost certainly, they’ll leave you alone.

ANNIE B CHRONICLES

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Th e a d v e n tur e s a n d mi s ad ve n tu re s o f a ‘ n o t s o a ve ra g e ’ P in a y tr y i n g to make i t i n th e c o s m o po lita n c ity o f Du b a i

M a bu h ay , Dub ai!!!!

“Welcome to Dubai Annie B!” Dizzizit!

The moment I been waiting for – to see the city of the promised land – where taxis are not named “Bulaklak”,”Rocalex” or “New Rocalex” anymore, where all places are air-conditioned and people live in condominiums – okay, flats – and opportunities are everywhere, where sky’s the langit!

“Mabuhay, I am Athena Daffodil Batobalani from Orion, Bataan, Philippneeeeessss!!!”

Dressed in my Marlyn Monroe outfit, me and my cousin Froricel arrived at Deira City Center, which reminded me of SM Megamall. I can’t wait to shop! But of course, I need to get a job first. So window-shopping muna….

I’m amazed with all the handsome men around me – locals who look like Richard Gomez and Ian Veneracion, Europeans that looksalike of Brad Pitt, and Indians and Pakistans mala Christopher de Leon and of course, other Arabs that remind me of John Spainhour … Come to Mama, my dear Papas!!!

Later on, my cousin’s suitor, Prakash, joined us for dinner in Chili. Prakash is weird. He kept shaking his head all the time. He can’t seem to get satisfied. “Are you ok?” He swings his head….”Do you

want some fries?” Swings his head but goes on to finish the fries in my plate… ”You’re really hungry, noh?” swing his head again. “Are you joking my leg?!!!” swings his head again…”Hay whatever you say so!”

After dinner, we went for a joy ride. My jaws dropped as I saw the high-techness of Dubai. Well…well… well…look what do we have here. The skycapers along Sheikh Zayed Road are amazing – like Makati times ten… parang… New York! I felt like I am in a movie. “Wooooowwww!!!!” Haneep!!!

Shocking!!!” I can’t find the words to describe Dubai. I was also witness the fantastic luxury place of them all – the Burj Al Arab!!!” My cousin told me that it is 7-stars hotel. I can’t believe it because I only know 5-stars hotels in Makati. And the shape – it looks like a space ship from Star Wars!!!”

Then we drive around Jumeirah, which is like Forbes Park. So full of big mansions!

Unlike in Manila, they light up their houses very brightly – maybe to scare the Akyat Bahay Gang here. On the road, I also saw the sports cars – Perari, Porsh, Lamborgenie – they have it all here!!! Next time I need to have non-stop Kodakan with all the cars, the buildings and houses around Dubai.

Then we went to Jules Bar – sossy place with lots of kabayans and other lahi. I was so surprised because the bands are Pinoy.

The place was so crowded, standing room only. My cousin ordered Bullfrog. I liked it but I miss Gin Pomelo. They don’t have it there. The place was very full of fun – everyone was having a good time!

After we finished our drinks, we moved to another bar – this time a Pinoy kind. We arrived in Ratsky’s - I’m so glad they also have a branch here. This way I won’t get homesick. The place was jampacked with Pinoys. I noticed there is no dress code.

Most of our kabayans were dressed in basketball jerseys, shorts and tsinelas – how comfy! I felt overdressed of course – as always. The bar’s band sang more Tagalog songs. Most of their repertua were from Bon Jovi, Celine Dion and Aegis. I get sentimental whenever I hear….”Heto ako, basang basa sa ulaaaaannn!!!!”

Ahh, painful memories from the past. Who cares? Everything is all spilled milk under the bridge. I am now in Dubai – and soon, my dreams will about to be true. I am after all, a woman of the world nowadays – ready to conquer the world under the tips of my finger in my hands, where I can have my cake and bake it too… Dubai, here I am… are you ready for Annie B?!!! illustrado go>53

COMMUNITY >

Phil. Embassy in Abu Dhabi Celebrates World Autism Awareness Month

Group photo at Embassy

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The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi celebrated the Autism Awareness Month last April 08, 2016 at the Chancery.

With the aim of promoting autism awareness, as well as acceptance and appreciation, speakers were invited to give short talks on their experience and expertise in the field.

Philippine Ambassador to the UAE H.E. Constancio R. Vingno, Jr., in his Welcome Remarks, recalled that in January this year, the Embassy personnel recited the oath, “1 Pangako,” in observance of the 20th Autism Consciousness Week. “Today, we are wearing blue in honor of people with autism worldwide. I hope our celebration will inspire and motivate us all to make a difference,” he said.

Ms. Kismette Jasmin Cepe-Riguerra, Special Education classroom teacher at the Future Centre for Special Needs in Abu Dhabi, gave a lecture entitled, “Helping Children with Autism: Practical Tips for Home, School and Community.”

She shared data provided by the Autism Society of the Philippines, the forefront organization on autism in the country. Ms. Cepe-Riguerra also spoke about the United Nations 2016 theme, “Autism and the 2030 Agenda: Inclusion and Neurodiversity.”

Dr. Ma. Lourdes Sta. Rosa-Casas, Specialist in Pediatrics and Pediatric Cardiology at the Asian Philippine Medical Center in Abu Dhabi, gave a lecture entitled, “Autism – Red Flags.” She talked about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the red flags and problem areas that parents should be illustrado go>54

Amba Vingno’s Welcome Remarks

aware of. She emphasized that early screening and diagnosis allows for earlier intervention and that it is easier to “rewire” brain connections when the child is very young.

Speaker:

Special guest Teacher Kismette performer, 12-year-old Laurence de Guzman, sang his own rendition of Ed Sheeran’s “Photograph” and OneRepublic’s “Love Runs Out” which greatly impressed and moved the crowd.

“My son, Laurence, was first diagnosed with autism at the age of 3. It was initially hard.

Acceptance was not instantaneous. But reality set in and we knew that if there are people who should guide this precious little child, it would be us, his parents,” Mhy De Guzman said as she introduced Laurence to the audience. “We were never prepared for the magnitude of his gift in music and the arts. Now, Laurence has been to places that we never thought he would be,” Mrs. De Guzman proudly said, adding that his son has been invited to perform in various big events in the UAE. Her family actively supports and hopes to provide inspiration to other families.

The event was attended by Principal Lizabeth Comia, Vice Principal Luz Divino, and faculty members of The Philippine

Speaker: Dra. Casas

Performer: Laurence de Guzman

Global School (TPGS), Principal Jonathan Esguerra and faculty members of The Philippine School (TPS) Abu Dhabi, invited guests from the Asian Philippine Medical Center, the Philippine Business Council in Abu Dhabi, and the officers and staff of the Embassy, POLO, OWWA, DSWD, SSS and Pag-IBIG. At the end of the lectures, Vice Consul Rowena Pangilinan-Daquipil announced the re-launching of the Philippine Ladies Circle (PLC) – Abu Dhabi, under the patronage of Madame Yoko Vingno-Ramos. “The PLC aims to develop the role of Filipino women in society and to promote culture and Filipino values in the UAE. Aside from Embassy personnel, ,membership is open to ladies from the Bayanihan Council, Philippine Business Council, Philippine schools, and other interested parties,” she said.

Vice Consul Daquipil also thanked Madame Vingno for initiating the Autism Awareness Month celebration at the Embassy.

ILLUSTRADO STUFF >

Money can’t buy happiness, but admit it - sometimes you just gotta have your stuff! Get a load of these interesting, very Illustrado sundry. Can’t live without ‘em!

INDOOR PLANTS And not the corny plastic ones, ha. We mean the real green stuff. Not only do they actually help clean the air in your space, they also make you feel like you’re so responsible, you can actually nurture life and grow something.

VIRGIN COCONUT OIL If you’re notion of coconut oil is the kind that sits atop Bicol Express, you’re way off. We’re talking about the pure, heavenly coconut oil that’s loaded vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. You can cook with it, put it on your tea, use it on your face and hair, dab it on your wounds to make them heal faster. It’s so magical, you’d wish you could just bathe in it.

PRINCE In his audacity and uniqueness he taught us how to celebrate our individuality. In his unparalleled musicianship, he taught us how to bring creativity to life though nerdlevel dedication and hard work. Long live the Prince!

FACEBOOK LIVE God bless Mark Zuckerberg. He has been levelling the media landscape and giving the power back to the common people! With Facebook’s new Live video feature, he made all of us the stars of our own TV shows.

THE NORTH FACE BACKPACK Some brands are just, well, brands.

But then some brands manage to live up to their reputation. Your relationship may not last forever, but your North Face backpack will.

We know people who have been using theirs for over a decade!

PENNY DREADFUL Horrific. Peotic. Sexy. It’s hard to pull of that mix, but Penny Dreadful surely does. The writing is top notch, the production design is on point, the cast is spectacular, and oh, don’t even get us started with the weird and beautiful beast that is Eva Green!

VITAMIX BLENDER So yeah, it’s a blender. But it’s the mother of all blenders! A bit pricy, but it gives you a lot of mileage. Great for smoothies, nut butters, hard vegetables – anything that you need to obliterate into smithereens. No, don’t try it on your ex. illustrado go>55

BLOG

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How to Become a Fortune Magnet By> Rian Miranda

“When you are grateful, fear disappears, and abundance appears.” – Anthony Robbins

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Each morning I wake up, I habitually say a short prayer of thanksgiving, especially when I don’t feel any anxiety or health issues. I take time to read at least one inspirational story to kick-start my day; and during this brief moment, I am always reminded of something to be grateful for. Although there are a number of things I wish I could change and concerns that dampen my spirit, it still feels fantastic to be alive and even have the opportunity to write this very article.

Some people, who read self-help articles and books such as Eat, Pray, Love, and The Secret, are aware that the core value of the law of attraction is gratitude. We get what we give. If we are kind to one, but unkind to another, we receive karma for both occasions. However, no matter how many millions those books have been sold to, I still see and hear a lot who are more aware of what they don’t have and what is not right, by their own terms.

They refuse to acknowledge their own blessings. We (sometimes) forget that what we have is what others have been praying for. We overlook the fact that there

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will always houses that our more beautiful than ours, and that it’s not the end of the world if our friends have more promising careers, fancier cars, and better-looking partners. Instead of focusing on what we have, we fixate on what we do not – always wondering and pining after the next breakthrough.

Here’s another secret that should be synergized with Gratitude: Contentment.

The truth is that there is always a dark side to everything—circumstances, people, places, even the expensive gadget you just bought that won’t sync with another device when it’s supposed to. But if we learn to pause, and believe that wherever we are is where we are meant to be right now or what we have is what’s meant for us to grow, then we find peace; no matter how unfavorable the situation may seem.

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