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P INOY X VALENT IN ES # P i n o yVd a y

IT’S ALWAYS COMPLICATED!

The New Relationship Statuses

HEART-SHAPED WORLD Valentines Around The Globe

WAG KA NANG THE DEALBREAKERS MAGPRAMIS The 7 Worst

Wala Namang Forever

Relationship Killers

illustradolife.com

EDITOR’S NOTE/ CONTENTS

ISSUE 14

31th • Jan • 2017

#PinoyVday

There’s “in love.” Then there’s “inlababo.” The kind of romantic obsession that compels you to give so much of yourself, you might as well throw in your kitchen sink. Love is great. Love is awesome. But when it becomes the singular focus of your life and times, it can become disruptive and dangerous. The solution: don’t take it too seriously! Kalma lang. Love, when it’s real, does not hurt. And if it does, maybe you have something different altogether.

Maybe you’re not really in love. Maybe you’re just inlababo!

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Editor-in-Chief

PINOY PROGRESSIVE

ILLUMINATI: DATE A GIRL > 6 POWER TO THE PINOY: THE V-DAY DILLEMA >8 KEEPING UP WITH THE CONGEN: THE TIMELINE OF LOVE > 10 FEATURE: “I LOVE YOU” IN DIFFERENT COUNTRIES > 12 FEATURE: AYOKO NANG MAGPRAMIS, WALA NAMANG FOREVER > 14 FEATURE: LOVE IN THE TIME OF INSTAGRAM > 16 USAPANG ILLUSTRADO: WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL RELATIONSHIP? > 19 FEATURE: THE TOP 3 NEW RELATIONSHIP STATUSES > 20 LUGI TOONS > KABAYAN KINNA LOVE! > 22 PINOY BYAHE GUIDE: BHUTAN > 24

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: KEVIN SABINO > 38 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: VERDAD > 40 SCRAPBOOK: BETHOVEN FILOMENO & NORMAN PINEDA CUNANAN > 42 ILLUSTRAGRAMMERS > 44

FASHION & BEAUTY

EDITORIAL: YOUR HEART IS AS BLACK AS NIGHT > 30 BEAUTY: DATE NIGHT ELEGANZA > 36 CURATED FASHION: A (SINGLE) GIRL’S GUIDE > 46 WEARING IT WELL: ABBEY RAMOS > 48

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JUST BECAUSE

ANGAS PINAS: CRISTETA COMERFORD > 28 IT’S WHAT I DO: MAGIE ATIENZA > 29 LA-LA-LA-LIFESTYLE: SPICE IT UP! > 23 ILLUSTRADO STUFF > 49 MONEY: HOW DO YOU FIND A FINANCIAL PLANNER > 50 SENSE & SPIRITUALITY: THE 7 DEADLY RELATIONSHIP SINS > 51 ILLUSTRADO NOMNOMS: INTIMATELY ITALIAN > 52 ILLUSTRADO NOMNOMS: THE TALE OF THE ULTIMATE FRIDAY BUFFET > 53 LAW: ANO NA LAAANG, ATTORNEY > 54 ANNIE B: HOMECOMING QUEEN > 55

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Contributors

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Editor-in-Chief “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, her natural knack for marketing and mass communications makes her a formidable authority in any dialogue regarding the rebranding of the Filipino image on a global scale.

NICHOLO JALLORES

Associate Editor Nicholo used to be all about love. He sang of love, wrote of love – lived, breathed, and died many little deaths for it. He was lovelorn all throughout his twenties. Now, the quickest way to bore him is to ask him why he’s single.

Don’t do it.

LOUISE MONIQUE ROSAN KATLEA REODICA

Rosan is a Desert Mermaid who always wants to stay wet wherever she goes. She tells impatient people that she is a Practicing Misis – a woman of hits and misses. Being told she won’t be able to get married without learning how to cook Adobo, she has now learned how to make her own pesto, guacamole, and her own flavored taho. She has a cookbook, but she still doesn’t have her own kitchen.

Louise Monique is an allaround female version of a hustler. She is a make-up artist by profession, brand ambassador for the make-up brand, Giella Custom Blend Cosmetics and a beauty & make-up content creator.

Coming from an Advertising & Communications background, she is working towards developing her brand The Louise Monique. She has a certain je ne sais quoi that gives a personal touch to her chef d’œuvre. Get in touch with her via her website: www.thelouisemonique.com.

ANTONINO BENITEZ

A straight-A student whose hair often gets him into trouble, Antonino is a quirky character, well-versed in both the academics and the arts. He never strays away from his individuality. As he (not so)secretly fulfills his dream of becoming an astronaut, Antonino continues to walk through life hungry for new knowledge and in search of all things epic. illustrado go>4

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.

KRIP YUSON Esteemed writer Krip Yuson has earned distinctions as a literary author of over 20 books – from poetry, short stories, children’s stories, biographies, and translation. A Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature Hall-of-Famer, Krip regales us with his musings on the Filipino condition via his column, “Illuminati.”

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.

JOSEPH ALCANTARA

A marketer by profession and a blogger by passion, Joseph found his niche in inspiring others using his personal travel, fitness, career, and lifestyle stories. He believes that the world is one’s oyster and breathes the essence of ‘carpe diem.’ Follow his adventures through his blog www.flywithjoseph.com, or his Facebook page www.facebook. com/flywithjoseph.

BARNEY ALMAZAR, ESQ.

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

ROMAN GUEVARA

Spiritual advisor. Life Coach. Rockstar. Roman Guevara, better known as “Kuya Roman,” has made an indelible mark in the Filipino community in the GCC with his unique brand of empowerment. In this issue, he talks about how what people should do when they feel empty. Get in touch with him on Facebook: www.facebook.com/romanguevaraRU

AJ CHOLENG MARASIGAN

AJ Marasigan’s a social activist with political opinions that are so usually peppered with profanity that it’s often unprintable. She also writes about love, feminism, and gender equality through poems and articles you can sometimes find at Though Catalog, Berlin Art Parasite, and Elephant Journal. She’s also a social entrepreneur by profession and runs an events management company. She will have her own death star someday.

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 ANNA DE LEON BARNEY ALMAZAR EXCEL DYQUIANCO FRANCISCO COLAYCO SPECIAL QUARTERLY EDITION KRISTINE ABANTE CONSUL GENERAL PAUL RAYMUND CORTES TRACY LEY ORENCIO LOUISE MONIQUE SORIANO CONTRIBUTING WRITERS – UAE, PHILIPPINES, CANADA AJ MARASIGAN ALWEE VILLAROSA ANTONINO BENITEZ DANABELLE GUTIERREZ JOSEPH ALCANTARA KENNETH EPHRAIM SURAT MAI BAUTISTA NINA PEÑALOSA-CARPIO RACHE HERNANDEZ REX VENARD BACARRA ROMAN GUEVARA ROSAN KATLEA REODICA CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS –UAE, PHILIPPINES & USA EROS GOZE RAEN BADUA IRVIN RIVERA JEF ANOG ALEX CALUENG ROZEN ANTONIO HERSON NEBAYA CONTRIBUTING FASHION CREW - UAE, HONGKONG, PHILIPPINES GINNO ALDUCENTE JESSIE TABLA VALENTINO MONTUERTO JASMIN

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BI-WEEKLY

PUBLISHER – UAE ILLUSTRADO COMMUNICATIONS FZ-LLC 2ND FLOOR, BUILDING 2, DUBAI MEDIA CITY UNITED ARAB EMIRATES P.O. BOX 72280 OFFICE 20C TEL: +971 4 365 4543, 365 4547 FAX: +971 4 360 4771 E-MAIL: ADMIN@ILLUSTRADO.CO WEB: ILLUSTRADOLIFE.COM FACEBOOK: ILLUSTRADO MAGAZINE INSTAGRAM: @illustradomagazine PRINTERS ATLAS MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS FZ-LLC PO BOX 14833 DUBAI, UAE STOCK IMAGES SHUTTERSTOCK.COM (UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED) COPYRIGHT ILLUSTRADO COMMUNICATIONS FZ-LLC 2006 – 2017 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE USED OR REPRODUCED IN ANY MANNER WHATSOEVER WITHOUT THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF ILLUSTRADO COMMUNICATIONS FZ-LLC.

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

B y > K r i p Yu s o n

I

t all started with a mock-tough essay

by Charles Warnke, a 21-year-old American writer, which showed up in the Internet a few years back. It was titled “You should date an illiterate girl.” Cynical lines posed injunctions from the get-go: “Date a girl who doesn’t read. Find her in the weary squalor of a Mid-western bar.

Find her in the smoke, drunken sweat, and varicolored light of an upscale nightclub…

Engage her with unsentimental trivialities.

Use pick-up lines and laugh inwardly. Take her outside when the night overstays its welcome. Ignore the palpable weight of fatigue. Kiss her in the rain under the weak glow of a streetlamp because you’ve seen it in film. Remark at its lack of significance….

“Don’t date a girl who reads because girls who read are the storytellers. … The girl who reads has spun out the account of her life and it is bursting with meaning. She insists that her narratives are rich, her supporting cast colorful, and her typeface bold. You, the girl who reads, make me want to be everything that I am not. But I am weak and I will fail you, because you have dreamed, properly, of someone who is better than I am.”

Now, that was fine writing. Surprisingly, barely a month later, a young Filipina, Rosemarie Urquico, responded with a piece that also went viral among Pinoy FB adherents and bloggers. (A pity that as with

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Warnke, we can only quote brief excerpts.)

“Date a girl who reads. Date a girl who spends her money on books instead of clothes. She has problems with closet space because she has too many books…. “… If you find a girl who reads, keep her close. When you find her up at 2 AM clutching a book to her chest and weeping, make her a cup of tea and hold her. You may lose her for a couple of hours but she will always come back to you. She’ll talk as if the characters in the book are real, because for a while, they always are.

“Or better yet, date a girl who writes.”

I got into the spirit of things, and posted the following on my FB Wall, titled “You should date a girl who farts, openly”: Date a girl who lies. Date a girl who practices all sorts of subtle deceit. She will teach you the ways of the world, as if you didn’t know it yet. She will affirm what you have suspected all along, that everyone thinks you’re a child who can only be told of happy gifts. And that everybody else cheats or dispenses bull.

Keep dating a girl who unfriends you when she doesn’t want you to see photos of her with other men in Facebook. The hurt will stun you, and prepare you for the mysteries of the next life, equip you with something better than religion. Date her still, so you can block her when she cries foul over your

own sense of democratization.

Date a girl who laughs, whose hair is wild and who closes her eyes in rapturous sleep once you run your fingers through her curls.

She is also likely to laugh at most of what the Pope says.

Date a girl who farts, openly, without rancor or remorse. It doesn’t mean she’s bereft of social graces, just that she accepts life as it is, with all of its myriad chemical processes that can only be masked to a fault. By breaking wind, in public, she manifests her willingness to participate in an edgy universe.

Date a girl who does all those: lies, laughs, farts openly — for she will be your mirror, and exaggerate your excesses.

But if you find yourself too weak and can’t stand your own face and warts, then rethink your typology of dalliances.

And since you don’t want to date a boy, maybe you’re better off with a plant. Why, you can watch it grow, or be assured it does, even away from you, without sadness or blame. With just some water. And sun.

And a few words from you, or many words, that are heard, and heeded. Or so you think.”

Okay. Well, you get the drift, and the picture. Happy Valentine’s Day!

POWER TO THE PINOY

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Towards empowering Filipinos.

By> Lalaine Chu- Benitez

I

’m a person who loves traditions and rituals. I love the fact that you go the extra mile to make the people in your life feel special during specific occasions and Valentine’s Day is one of those important dates.

Then again, there’s that school of thought that says, ‘why wait for a special occasion to show your love when you can do it everyday, right’? Well, call it the ‘human condition,’ but I’m not perfect. So let’s just say that being all out generous and loving, on a daily basis, is very much still a work in progress.

So a day devoted to love is great - or isn’t it?

Ideally, it should be, although, it’s well known that more people get depressed during the holidays and special occasions.

With all the pressure that such celebrations bring, it’s easy to understand why some

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@lalaine_chubenitez

people are not exactly ecstatic and as celebratory as the rest. And at this time, moreso, since Valentine’s could be quite a biased exercise.

Just consider beyond swooning pairs, what about husbands or boyfriends who lament that the celebration is quite partial to women? Or pragmatic-jaded types (like moi) who cringe at the idea of having to sit through dinner at a restaurant with other googly-eyed couples, most of whom sport the color red, pledging cheesy love to each other? Most of all, what about singles who feel isolated while everybody else is gushing over flowers, chocolates and dinner by candlelight?

Although V-Day idealists would argue that this day of love is for everybody and anybody, the truth is, it has become mostly a celebration of romance. So no matter how much of a true-blue idealist you are, a cozy dinner at home with your ‘manang’

auntie (if that’s the only person you have out here), does not a Valentine make.

Then again… you look back at your childhood memories, to those sweet days in February, spent making red art paper or cartolina hearts, or more ‘sophisticated’ (for elementary graders) cards complete with fancy cut-outs to give to your crush, your friends, your teachers, parents, siblings and just about everybody. Sweet, isn’t it?

Well, that is unless you are the only kid in class who didn’t get a red heart. Ouch!

Confused? I know I am. Oh well, love it or hate it, we’re going to mark Valentine’s Day anyway. So, turn the pages and indulge with us, while we tackle l’amour from different perspectives.

Just, don’t go cheesy on me now …

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

By > Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes

T

he story isn’t new. I’ve regaled friends and those interested to know several times before.

Without doubt, I will continue telling the tale of how my wife and I took several turns in life to bring us to 20 years of marriage. I cannot pinpoint exactly where it all began but perhaps I can begin with the day when I finally decided to call it quits with career plans with SGV (for the benefit of those unaware, SGV is an accounting and management consulting firm then thought of as The Place to be after college.) Though just to set the record straight, I am extremely proud to have been a part of that family and everything about SGV is possibly the most rewarding as far having a career path that was to be the envy of all was concerned. It was crystal clear to me though that I was never going to be happy staying there, this strong urge to leave and set off to the unknown, away from what I had been educated to do and what I had been training for, tugging my soul.

Nebulous as to what I had hoped to be and

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where to take my education to, with a great leap of faith, I packed my bags and went to Baguio, my birthplace and where most of relatives including my grandparents lived.

That was November of 1991, a few months after the great earthquake that struck the city. Just as the city was reeling from destruction and painstakingly trying to rebuild itself, there I was similarly trying to find out exactly what place under the sun I wanted to claim, an endeavor I was starting out of nowhere. And as unplanned as my decision to leave Manila was, I took another great leap and went on to try my luck as an artist/performer, this time as a pop/ jazz vocalist, a departure from my classical vocal orientation in college.

I began with ballads and light pop rock even folk and jazz music, diving into musical genres then unknown to me or to vocal styles that were alien to me. Slowly though, I must have chosen my songs right and pretty soon, there were quite a few who followed my nightly sets -- which either stretched from an early 730pm piano set or to the primetime 1030pm or to a late

night capper at 1230am. One of those who often listened to my sets was a prominent, young optometrist, whose network of friends was undeniably wide and expansive, she is carrying the family name of one of the city’s most respected politico-sociocivic brands and herself being a genuinely likeable and endearing personality.

Don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t your proverbial love at first sight. We became friends, unearthing discoveries that bound our families together. Her father was a great friend of my father in their bachelor days, her mother and my mother knew each other as well, the Baguio circle of the 60s apparently small and tight. My family knew hers, our grandparents were from the same province, their towns close by each other, and most surprisingly, her dad was my baptismal godfather or ninong, in Filipino parlance. There was just too much of a web that linked us but we didn’t think of it as anything deeper than it was. This lady optometrist had become sort of a critic and fan (I see rolling eyeballs), who told me straight on whether my set or song

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

Maybe our love story isn’t the end of it all – maybe it was the foundation of stories of the future, or maybe a logical precursor to something even greater. In the scheme of things, we will never know. I do know though that what is most certain is that at some point in this eternal line of forking events, Yasmin and I fell in love.

choice was outright dead-on or lamentably horrible and substandard. She had become a confidant as well and we seemed to agree that being great friends was what we were destined to be…..until….we decided to try out something deeper and beyond infatuation as the connection was undeniably bringing us closer together.

most bewailing moments in my life albeit some eight months after, we decided to give it another push and maybe see whether we were really destined to be. (Short of being film fiction, it was my grandmother, dad, and even my brother who paved the way toward reconciliation, like they knew where it all should have headed to.)

We became an item, happily so. At some point in our relationship, however, as I was pushing my luck in singing a tad further in Manila, having signed on with a recording company my group and I snatched through the auspices of our business manager, she and I figured our paths were bifurcating, like trees whose branches were slowly drifting apart until the expanse was just too great to reconcile. Admittedly, the decision to let go was one of the most difficult and

Well, as I always said in the past, stars seem to have a mind of their own and align exactly at the most perfect time. It was the serendipity and randomness of my career decision that led me to Baguio that year, the blind embrace of the obvious absurdity of leaving a promising and lucrative career in management consulting and information systems, the senseless desire to sing professionally, a career I was definitely unprepared for. And in those hours of joyful

performing and nightly soul searching, I met her, fell in love, and eventually married her, to which I am crediting all that I bask myself in today.

I look back to where I was some 20 years ago, thinking about how my and my wife’s timelines diverge to where we are right now. These snippets of yesteryears collided to figure in a cosmic display of fate, resulting in some magical formation who knows it was intended for. Maybe our love story isn’t the end of it all – maybe it was the foundation of stories of the future, or maybe a logical precursor to something even greater. In the scheme of things, we will never know. I do know though that what is most certain is that at some point in this eternal line of forking events, Yasmin and I fell in love. Luckily, we still are!

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FEATURE

By> Antonino Benitez

>

@antonino.benitez

With the infamous ‘V –Day’ slowly approaching we ask ourselves – what does it all mean?

Stemming from a rather complicated historical origin between Christianity and the Romans, Valentine’s Day has become branded in society as a time that involves acting upon the values of love and devotion. Nothing says “I love you” like, well, “I love you” – but the English language doesn’t have the monopoly of romantic expressions. Every culture has its own unique way of expressing love. Let’s explore them, shall we?

French: Je t’aime As well as holding the international reputation as the ‘City of Lights’, France’s capital is most prevalently known for its infectiously romantic atmosphere.

Perhaps the charming and awe-inspiring architecture or the people themselves, Paris’ liveliness is particularly vibrant on Valentine’s Day. With locals referring to this occasion as ‘La Saint-Valentin’, French couples gift each other with fresh flowers and special chocolates in hopes of displaying their mutual adoration.

Spanish: Te quiero Accompanying the country’s traditional adorning of romance-inspired decorations, the Spanish take part in customs that are deeply passionate on a symbolic level.

Concerning Barcelona and the whole Catalonian region, couples celebrate love on a slightly later date, on the 23rd of April. Also known as ‘El Dia de la Rosa’, love birds usually exchange roses and books throughout the day in keeping with the popular Catalan proverb – ‘A rose for love and a book forever’.

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Danish: Jeg elsker dig With Valentine’s Day just recently making its mark on the Danish population (only being introduced during the early 90’s), the country’s younger generations have come to appreciate the day through participating in more sentimental acts. The main practice that still frequently happens on the 14th is the exchange of ‘Lover’s cards’. Originally a transparent card that revealed an image of the card-giver sweetly presenting his soulmate with a gift, the phrase now alludes to every heartfelt letter as even the simplest of deeds mean something.

South Korean: (Sarang -hae) Young South Korean couples dedicate a lot of effort towards Valentine’s Day, with several deeds of the love-fueled season carried out from February until April. As men and women equally contribute in the gift-giving, women are the first to represent their love on the 14th, as they spoil their men with an array of sweets. However, following one month, men raise stakes by returning their significant other’s deed through showering them with even more

gifts than before. Funnily enough, singles aren’t even left out as they embrace their independence with a bowl of black-bean paste noodles.

Japanese: (aishiteru yo) Since geographically close countries bear cultures that share parallel values, it’s no surprise that the Japanese celebrate ‘V-day’ similarly to the South Koreans.

Sharing a practice which entails gift-giving from both sides of the relationship, what makes the Japanese custom more unique is the fact that the chocolate is specifically made for different people. In maintaining the sociable relations between peers, people distribute ‘Giri-choco’ to all of their friends. Then there is ‘Honmei-choco’ – the chocolate is intimately meant one’s partner and is always made by hand.

Portugese: Eu te amo Once again, unlike most western nations where Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February the 14th, the Brazilians instead take part in equally romantic activities on the 12th of June – commonly regarded as

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“Dia dos Namorados”. Directly translated as ‘Day of the enamored’, this is a rather significant event for lovers because of its proximity to St. Anthony’s day – honoring the patron saint of marriage. Thus in the zeal for love, people either chose to throw simple get-togethers or check out the dynamic street performances - not limiting the festivity to just couples.

nation as people have started to place an Indian flare on the typical traditions. Over the years, Indian couples have come to dress extravagantly with the intention of parading their feelings for their significant other. Not only that, but during this time of year in India, hotels are brimming to their capacity hosting couples that chose to celebrate.

other, as they collectively say “I do”. Once over 150 couples got married alongside each other, making February 14th the most common wedding anniversary date back home. Kicking it up a notch higher, hundreds of romantics gathered throughout the years in vouching for a world record for the most lip-locking simultaneously.

Afrikaans: Ek’s lief vir jou While couples offer one another with tokens of love, a predominant Valentine’s Day tradition in South Africa initially began to enhance one’s confidence in finding love. On the actual day, women pin a literal heart on their sleeve, writing both their name, and the name of their personal love interest. Through this daring act, both men and women are given an ounce of courage to take the first step in starting a relationship they’ve secretly sought after.

Italian: Ti amo There are already countless aspects of the Italian culture that are evocative of love. Originally, youthful and starryeyed individuals gathered in gardens to appreciate poetry readings and live music, as well as walked down romantic promenades as Valentine’s Day used to be known as the spring festival. Although, most Italians currently rejoice in their love through a sumptuous romantic dinner.

Learning about what the essence of V-day actually is for people, it’s been reiterated that the celebration boasts numerous variants across the globe. Despite some populations considering the event as solely dedicated to the love that exists in relationships, the meaning of Valentine’s Day has also been redefined by some nations – as the potentially stronger love between friends and family is also embraced.

Tagalog: Mahal Kita In the Philippines, Valentine’s Day marriages have been on the constant rise, with hundreds of couples who are willing to spend the rest of their lives with each

So, if you’re getting down because you’re alone on the 14th, remember that love happens in many forms.

Hindi: ( maiṅ tumse pyār kartā hūṅ ) As Hindu notions usually challenge that of the Western world, Valentine’s Day celebrations were freshly adopted by the

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FEATURE >

By> Nicholo Jallores

@nicholo.jallores

@harold.evangelista

P

ramis ako ng pramis na magkakalovelife na ko, hindi ko naman matupad-tupad! Eh wag na lang kaya akong magpramis?

You know how it is. The new year rolls in and the first item on your list of resolutions is to get a lovelife, hopefully in time for Valentines. You could resolve to get a pay raise, travel more, find a more lucrative job, or do some volunteer work but noooo - romance has to take precedent over any other earthly endeavor. Para bang bubuka ang lupa pag di ka nagka-jowa.

I’ve done this year in, year out, and if you’re anything like me, you would have also reached a point where promising has become pointless. Life is unpredictable.

You can plan for it all you want, but the truth is that your best hope is to make the most out of whatever curveballs it throws at you. Same goes with finding love. You can strategize it, make a SWOT analysis of it, break it down into actionable milestones in a quarterly marketing calendar and plan every tactic down to an atomic level, but at the end of the day, it will come to you when it comes to you.

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So what do we do, now that we know that love is not something we can plan for?

How about taking those promises, turning them on their heads, and making ourselves happy the end goal? Yung ipa-pramis ko sa iba, ipapramis ko na lang sa sarili ko.

Malamang sa oo may mahita ako. Ako ‘to eh.

PRAMIS, MAGPAPAKA-HEALTHY NA KO! Not because I want to be more attractive. Not because I want to be more “marketable.” I will be fit because I want to feel better and live longer. The quickest way to disappoint yourself is to reform your life around someone else’s approval. Di ka magtatagumpay jan bes! So whatever you do with your body, do it for you. Bonus na lang pag natripan ng iba.

PRAMIS, MAGTA-TRAVEL AKONG MAG-ISA! Eh sino bang nagsabing kailangan pulupulutong kayong mag-travel, or that you need a partner to enjoy the world?

Kalokohan. Travelling alone is one of the best gifts you can ever give yourself. You are never more badass than when you travel solo. You become a survivalist, a

naturalist, a Jedi knight practicing the mind trick, an earthbound astronaut. You can’t become all of these when half of your brain functions are geared towards making the other person comfortable. Kaya wag ka nang magatubili. I-book mo na ang ticket na yan. Kaya mo yan! And if you need someone to take your photos, ask a local.

Or better yet, bring a selfie stick and a bluetooth clicker.

PRAMIS, TITIKIM AKO NG MGA BAGONG PAGKAIN! This is an exercise on breaking patterns. A lot of people just fall in love with the same person over and over again. Iba-iba lang ng anyo at katawan, but at the core, they’re really just one archetype. This type of obsessive, self-conditioned behavior can be evident in the way you eat. Burger forever!

Rice and ulam forever! Hala, andaming choices, my friend! Ayaw mo ba talagang mag-try naman ng iba?

PRAMIS, I WILL ENGAGE MORE WITH MY COMMUNITY! Instead of trying to find that one person who will turn your life around, find your tribe. Find a group of like-minded individuals who inspire you and compel you

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Yung ipa-pramis ko sa iba, ipapramis ko na lang sa sarili ko. Malamang sa oo may mahita ako. Ako ‘to eh.

@harold.evangelista

to upgrade youself to a whole new level of awesome. Don’t waste your time trying to impress people who will not invest themselves in you. Instead, be your real, authentic self around people who can love you for you.

Yung hindi ka na masyadong magaadjust kasi swak na swak na kayo.

Winner yun!

PRAMIS, I WILL LEARN SOMETHING NEW The day you stop learning is the day you die. Ang severe, noh? But that’s exactly how it is. There is always, ALWAYS something new to learn, and the best lessons in life come to those who are the most ready. So be ready.

Learn a new hobby, job skill, another language, or a more progressive mindset. Learn how to cook another version of adobo, manage a social media page, make a website, or a new makeup trick. Andaming pwedeng gawin at aralin. You don’t have to focus all of your emotional and mental energy on finding love. Love will find you. And by the time it does, you would be ready for it too.

PRAMIS, MAS MAMAHALIN KO ANG SARILI KO! If there’s one thing we can learn about in-flight emergency procedures, it’s that you have to take care of yourself first before you take care of anybody else. There’s no point in fiddling over your seatmate’s oxygen mask when you yourself are about three seconds from passing out.

Ganun din sa pagmamahal. Dapat ikaw muna. Dapat alagaan mo muna ang sarili mo. Ika nga ni pareng Rupaul, “If you can’t love yourself, how in the world are you going to love somebody else?” Before you make any new promises, make a promise to yourself first – that you will love yourself the way you want to be loved by others. And if you find yourself faltering from this vow, remember this piece of advice from the lovely Ms. Carrie Bradshaw:

“The most exciting, challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you can find someone to love the you that you love, well, that’s just fabulous.”

@harold.evangelista

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By > Marj Reyes and Julian Suarez

A

h, young love. There ain’t nothin’ sweeter. That blissful awakening into a world full of butterflies and daffodils, verdant hills and clearings with all of the forests’ beautiful woodland creatures. Life is like a dream when you’re in love – and if it’s the kind of love that Marj and Julian has, it also makes for a dreamy Instagram feed. In search of your next #RelationshipGoals?

Try this one out, for size!

How did you two meet? What was it like when you first met? First impressions? Was it love at first sight?

Marj: While most love story’s introduction met through common friends or a coffee shop, ours was different. We met through Instagram. It was 2013 since I hit that “follow” button.

Julian: We never actually talked and

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when we did it wasn’t long, we just slightly commented on each other’s pictures. haha!

Marj: What got me stuck on his feed was his evident walk with God through his bible verse captions. We have the same beliefs which were a major pogi point! He looked really cool and pogi just like my “ideal man”: tall, veiny armed, and with visible Adam’s apple. We would comment on each other’s photo but it was more like “nice shot bro!” and he would reply “thank you so much”. Very short but of course, kilig much.

Julian: The first impression basis was her Instagram profile! Aside from sharing the same beliefs, it’s undeniable that she is stunningly beautiful. To be honest, I was kind of scared the that I would fall for her if we started to talk and the fact that she lived 7000-miles away made it difficult for me to think it was something that would actually happen.

Marj : Fast forward after two years, I dreamt of him and it was a very clear vision that I was prompt to message him. Take note, we never had a proper conversation.

So there I go opening Instagram’s direct message: “Hey, Julian! How’s everything? I dreamt of you...”

And the story goes on.

It was just a 3-5 exchange of conversation because he ended it really quick and it was 3 AM already in the USA. After a week, I saw him upload a photo and I messaged him asking how things are now from our last conversation. He updated me, this and that, and ended the conversation again. It felt like he didn’t want to talk, or he was busy, or I don’t know. So... I just let him be.

My purpose was to only share my dream anyway.

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I remember someone asked me, “How sure are you that he’s the one?”

I answered, “Because there’s peace.”

I’m sure not only because of the peace God gave me when I met him but also because of the peace that my parents have when I told them about us. Their blessing in our relationship is a confirmation that he is the one for me.

More to that, I know that he is the one because he is clear on his intentions.

Our relationship never floated from doubts but flourished in the security with God. Julian never gave me a reason to doubt and he kept me secure.

Julian: I felt like I had been a bit rude to her because I wouldn’t reply if she said something as simple as “hope you’re doing well” and if I did it was short. But in the back of my head, I wanted to get to know her and talk to her.

“Hey Marj, this may be a little random but (please let me know if I’m wrong) lol but I kind of get the feeling that you think I don’t like talking to you or that I try to avoid conversations with you and if that’s so I apologize for that. I don’t want you to think I’m a jerk or anything. If not, then never mind lol just making sure.”

I found the strength to message her and apologize if I had come out as rude it’s just because I wasn’t trying to pursue a relationship just yet.

Marj: I told him it was okay (but I was obviously a little upset). Arte! hahaha. I was guarding my heart and I didn’t want him to think that I like him or any of that sort.

Julian: Then here’s the funny part: I guess she kinda took that the wrong way because the next day she blocked me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Haha!

I remembered I prayed and just felt a peace that if I started to talk to her the distance wouldn’t matter, so I did some investigating and found her Snapchat (where she didn’t block me haha) and from there was beginning of where we talked almost everyday and I fell in love with the love of my life.

Marj: We started liking each other but we did not jump into it just like that. We prayed for God’s will, and up until now, we continue to seek God in our everyday life.

That’s when I knew that it was love. It was more than just love at first sight. It was falling in love daily over and over again.

What makes this relationship work? (Coz we are seriously dying to know!)

Julian: What makes our relationship work is the trust we have for each other. I know 100% she is the one for me and the one God set apart for me since the beginning of time. There is a peace in this 7000-mile distance between us that nothing and no one will get in the way of it.

Marj: God does work in amazing ways.

Like what Luke Lezon said, “He is not limited by distance, His love bridged the gap from the USA to Dubai. He is not afraid to use unorthodox ways to connect His people, He did it for us through social media. He also understands the desires of our hearts.” And I agree with Julian, the trust that we have for each other is just the extension of our trust in the Lord that He prepared this relationship 2000 years ago.

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FEATURE

Julian: In addition to that, she is literally my other half! I don’t think I’ve met a person that can keep up with my craziness the way she does and she’s surprised I can keep up with her grumpiness too! I do my annoying corny puns just to see her reaction, which is usually a smirk haha.

Marj: I love the fact that we both are musically inclined, and we share the same passion for photography. We also go on dates – well, Skype dates! Eat dinner together, sync movies and watch it together, and take naps together haha. But we are totally different when we tell stories.

I can summarize my day in 5 minutes but he needs at least almost an hour complete his story. I become impatient sometimes because I already got my answer from the first 5 minutes. Hahaha! But I’m welladjusted now.

Julian: What stood out to me the most was how differently we handle our arguments. Yes, we do fight. The way she handles it or I handle it sometimes are different. But at the end, our love prevails any we make up. That sounded cheesy but it’s true.

What are the challenges that you’ve faced in this relationship? What makes you so sure that you are meant for each other?

Julian: The biggest challenge for sure has been this 7000-mile distance and 8-hour time difference. I can’t say it’s been a super easy journey. illustrado go>20

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Marj: Sometimes I can’t help it but just be teary-eyed whenever I think about the distance. The longing of holding his hand and hugging him especially when I face problems and I just want to rant.

Last December 2016, Julian and I met for the second time and God promoted me in life and I am now engaged to my best friend, my partner, and my answered prayer.

I can’t believe that we were only physically together for 35 days out of 365. What?

Crazy.

Julian: What makes this even more special for me is that she was my first Girlfriend ever and now, of course, my Fiancée. I waited till “The One” would step into my life and she’s definitely the one that was created for me! God is the biggest factor in our lives and in our relationship, nothing we have decided has been because “we felt like it” but because we felt peace from God to move forward. I would’ve never imagined growing to love a person as much as I’ve grown to love her!

I remember someone asked me, “How sure are you that he’s the one?” I answered, “Because there’s peace.”

What does the future have in store?

I’m sure not only because of the peace God gave me when I met him but also because of the peace that my parents have when I told them about us. Their blessing in our relationship is a confirmation that he is the one for me. More to that, I know that he is the one because he is clear on his intentions. Our relationship never floated from doubts but flourished in the security with God. Julian never gave me a reason to doubt and he kept me secure.

A little advice for you ladies: prayer does work. Believe that there is someone out there for you. The good, pleasing, and perfect will for you. Don’t rush. It’ll come in peace.

Julian: Now that we are engaged, we are keeping everything in prayer and we have somewhat of an outline of what we are planning but nothing 100% concrete yet. But for sure, we will be getting married this year and praying everything will be set for Marj to move here to the USA. She’s an explorer at heart and she’s rubbing that off on me, so I’m sure the USA won’t be our location forever but for now, that’s what the plan is.

Marj: It’s not going to be easy for sure.

Living here in the UAE for 20 years with family, I already got accustomed to everything. I’m basically a local haha! But he is home, and I’m so ready to do life with him. @marjanne.co @jasuarez

USAPANG

ILLUSTRADO >

Say no to usap ang barbero. Dapat, Illustrado!

Libre namang mangarap, so mangarap na tayo, friend! Ang tanong…

Marnelli Gaerlan Marketing Executive, Philippines

I think you need to go through a lot of relationships before “fitting” into the right one. As for me, I had to experience loving more and loving less to get the right mix. My ideal relationship was once full of romantic surprises, long walks on the beach and good night kisses. It was the kind you see on rom coms and chick flicks. It was innocent. But I found out along the way that it doesn’t always work that way.

My next ideal relationship was a materialistic kind. I wanted to give and receive gifts with no occasion whatsoever. I told myself that if he has money to spend on me, then he must really love me. It was also the kind that made me suppress my thoughts when I’m mad or sad just to make sure I can keep the relationship running. Eventually, my wallet ran out of cash and I got tired of keeping my feelings to myself. I stopped for a while thinking relationships are dumb and meaningless sex and casual talks are the way to go. But now I find myself in a new kind of relationship which, so far, is the most ideal. This relationship is full of adventures and laugh and kisses. It’s almost like a combination of the first ones I’ve been in. It’s soft and hard, hot and cold, but understanding at most. Sure, I am not closing my mind that my ideal relationship might still change, but right now, lukewarm is just right.

Jed Reyes Cabin Crew, Philippines

Precious De Leon Marketing Associate, UAE

I want a relationship that’s built on trust, friendship and loyalty. I want the type where we can just be ourselves, no pretending and no holding back. Probably, that’s why I prefer to start a relationship through friendship and not courtship. I want it to develop as natural as possible as we grow and mature individually together. A relationship filled with adventures and lifelong memories. And lastly, I want

Juan Miguel Manzanillo Bartender, Paris

My opinion on it though would be that there is no ideal relationship.

I think in terms of ideals people grow up with their own personal values and we try to find people whose values work well with ours. But ultimately, I believe it comes down to hard work, I have watched my parents grow as a couple throughout the years and their relationship is full of compassion and understanding.

The best advice I’ve heard at a wedding is that marriage is an empty box and it will stay an empty box until you start to fill it with things like time, understanding, hard work, love, compassion because nothing worth having ever comes easy.

Every relationship is a work in progress. For me, an ideal relationship is a partnership that allows a room for improvement.

It is a bond where you grow together without losing your individuality. That even though you don’t get to update or see each other on a daily basis but you are secured with each other.

You support each other’s goals and will be there through the test of time. There’s no perfect relationship so for me I always go back to why I fell in love with this person. I make it a point to let my love be bigger than the mistakes committed. It is also ideal for me if we are taking the same path.

We may have different interests but we dont allow it to get in the way of our relationship. Instead, we learn how different we are and use it as an advantage to learn from each other. Being contented with each other too is a key for me. That even though you are just beside each other doing nothing but you know you have someone you love beside you then you just feel happy.

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By> AJ Choleng Marasigan

A

s if relationships aren’t complicated enough, somebody upped the ante and tried to define the levels of “prerelationship” stage. You know, when you’re a little more than friends but you’re not actually dating just yet? Yeah, no one seems to know how to define those blurred lines and we’re just as confused as you are.

Here’s are our top 3 New Relationship Statuses that may actually help you figure out where you and your “boo” stands:

“Talking” aka ‘Flirting of the Minds”

What it looks like: The ultimate “dating” pre-game. A roundthe-clock conversation that spans every single communication platform you’re in.

You’re on each other’s social media.

Sometimes you talk over the phone and you send each other voice notes, but most of the communication happens through chatting because hey, it’s fast and easy.

You chat about random stuff. You’re on a perpetual 21 Questions Game.

You snap each other so often that you’re each other’s BFF. You can even quantify the length of your “talking phase” by the number of streaks you both have. 2 pink hearts means you’ve been at it for more than 100 days. Kudos!

You look down on your phone in the middle

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@pishbol

of a group dinner with a stupid grin on your face that you can’t seem to wipe off, and when someone asks you who you’re talking to, you mention her name but no one in your group has actually met her. They’ve heard about her, sure. You’ve mentioned her a couple of times as this “friend of mine I’ve been talking to”.

You send each other memes from 9gag and Imgur and you talk about anything under the sun.

Pros: Technology has made communication fast and easy for everyone. For as long as you’re “connected”, you will never feel “alone”. And when you’re pining over someone, it’s easier to keep on yourself on his/her everyday loop. Good Mornings are easier to convey and you can always check on their whereabouts (and yeah there’s a thin line between checking and stalking) or how they’re doing. “Talking” phase gets you invested on someone whether you like it or not. When you get used to telling someone details of your everyday life, you make them a part of your daily routine.

Which leads us to its Cons: Talking, however intense it can get, can never be tangible. Nothing can replace actual human connection. Evidently, the “talking phase” will require physical presence. A lot of people hide behind their online persona. You will eventually want

to hear them talk and laugh in person.

“LOLs” and “Hahaha” will cease to be enough. And if the “Talking” does not elevate into another level, it can get a little (or a lot) painful. “Talking” is an emotional investment. You let someone in your life and you make them part of it however superficial it may seem, and soon enough, a line has to be drawn. You’d either move on to someone who actually wants a human to human connection or you decide to do the next best thing, which then leads us to…

COCOL (Coffee Coffee Lang) aka Pre-Date

What it looks like: You go out for coffee. Not alcoholic drinks – not just yet. Just a plain and simple hot (or cold beverage) in a very casual and friendly public space. Here’s where you kinna size each other up – Ssee if the online persona matches the actual human being in front of you. It’s all about the chemistry and you’re seated here right now fidgeting but intensely interested to find out if the hilarious person that kept you up all night is just as funny in person. You do this without the pressure of actually being on a real “date”.

Pros: It’s like a Go See; more like an “audition” if anything. You get to decide if the “Chemistry” is real without having to

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go on an actual date. I know, it sounds lame but get this, if it doesn’t work out, you “technically” did not really go out on a date, so you dust yourself off of any accountability. When the dust settles, you can still be friends. Or so you think.

Human relationships are not something you can simplify with labels. And here’s why…

Cons: “Lang” is the tagalog word for “only”. So the actual translation of COCOL is Coffee Coffee Only.

It’s not a date. It’s ONLY a cup of coffee.

Unfortunately, Coffee was just used as an object here and the operative word is “Lang”. And that’s what “Pre-Dating” does.

It diminishes the value of the time you spend together. It’s lame and although it’s “safe”, it takes very little consideration of the time you spent “Talking”. Pre-dating has become the gray area of yet a bigger grey area that is…

HOHOL (Hang Out Hang Out Lang) aka KINDA DATING aka Nonrelationship relationship

What it looks like: After that long coffee sesh that turned into a Netflix marathon over pepperoni pizzas, a walk around the park the next day and a couple of running “dates” after, you’re talking as often as you were before but this time, you hang out as often too.

It’s like “dating” but no one wants to acknowledge that word just yet.

When people ask about the other person, you nonchalantly mention that you “hang out”.

By now the chemistry’s cemented. You obviously like each other. You enjoy each other’s company. The potential of actually being a couple is very real but why aren’t you a couple yet? Why aren’t you dating?

Pros: Well you ARE Dating. You just both refuse to acknowledge it. Being on a perpetual “hang out” session (again) takes the pressure off of being in an actual relationship. You get away with little things. Your options are still “technically” open because, hey, we’re just hanging out, right? No commitment.

Nothing is set in stone. Right?

Cons: Wrong. We don’t know what it is about people these days that makes them think life is easier if you just ignore labels and refuse to commit. Non-relationship relationships almost always end in disaster.

When one is not as mutually invested to a relationship as the other, no amount of “chemistry” or hanging out can get you by. And that’s going to be very exhausting.

Exhaustion, most often than not, breeds resentment.

Relationships are never easy and fragmenting layers of human connection can be very tricky.

However, as complex as it may seem,

defining real relationships (DTR) shouldn’t be as complicated if both parties are communicating properly. Maybe it’s the availability of having all these connections and possibilities provided by technology that has made us mere humans very fickle minded.

Back in the day, when the only ways you have to connect are through landlines or snail mails, we tend to value “chemistry” and “connection” more. Dates are longer.

People matter. Talking to someone for hours and days means actual and sincere emotional investment. Human interaction trumps constant Snaps or watching IG Stories. You learn a lot about a person by the way they laugh or how their nose wrinkles when you say something ridiculous. People don’t usually run away when the words “dating” “love” or “relationships” are uttered.

We were braver in taking risks because we knew that some things don’t always come easy. No one waits around for perfection – we strive for it. We make it happen. We muster enough courage to wear our hearts in our sleeves like it’s a medal of valor.

They say “love don’t come easy” and we were all very much aware of that, so when it came knocking on our doors we didn’t pretend they did not exist on the grounds of label technicalities.

Life is too short for games. Go after what makes you happy.

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LUGI TOONS

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Graphic Pilipinisms!

Nagmahal. Nasaktan. Nag-Dubai.

Nagmahal. Nasaktan. Umuwi ng ‘Pinas. Luhaan.

Anuto, ikot-ikot lang?

ARTWORK BY CHOLO JUAN @DepiKtDXB

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Many of us Overseas Filipinos make the mistake of prioritizing love over the one true reason why we went abroad: to WORK. To work on our careers, on our financial statuses, on building a better future for our families back home. Love is a many splendored thing, but only in as much as it inspires you. If it distracts you, then maybe it’s something else. Kaya kalma lang pagdating sa lovelife, mga kabayan. Kusang darating yan, #SaTamangPanahon.

LA-LA-LA-LIFESTYLE

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Live your life…style!

By > Joseph Alcantara

Y

ou’ve been together for years and still believe in Valentine’s Day, but the cliché dinner date no longer does it. Time to spice it up with untraditional ideas to keep the magic alive. Here are some suggestions to make this year’s occasion a memorable one.

GO GLAMPING Take advantage of the good weather and do desert camping with a glamorous twist.

Spend quality time and get away from it all while being pampered with gourmet meals and beverages of your choice, experiencing picture-perfect sunset, sleeping under the stars and waking up to enjoy a variety of activities with golden sands as your backdrop.

DO CHICK FLICK ALL-DAY Give in to what she’ll tag as the ‘best day ever’ – romantic movie marathon while lazing under the sheets coupled with breakfast, lunch and dinner in bed. Have at least four chick flicks on the queue with a few of her favourites and some that she hasn’t seen yet, matched with a wellprepared menu that’s a combination of her comfort food and your new finds. And to end the day, why not a home service massage too?

@flywithjoseph

GIVE A PROFESSIONAL SERENADE Show your hopeless romantic side and express what you really feel through a serenade. You might say ‘I love you’ everyday, but not through a song and a surprise stunt that will surely melt hearts away. Do an old-fashioned gesture with a modern twist by asking the service provider to sing your partner’s favourite love song while handing over your handwritten love letter along with flowers and chocolates.

ADOPT A DOG Do this if you’re ready to take the relationship to the next level and commit to a conjugal responsibility. Like having your own child, it will serve as an introduction on how to nurture another life as partners.

This won’t be a one-time Valentine gift, as it will involve an unconditional dedication.

The return will be more than amazing though – a loyal pet who’d also give you both unconditional love.

NAME A STAR Let the line ‘I’ll give you the moon and the stars’ metaphorically come to life by gifting your partner a star under his or her name.

There are various star registry sites that offer naming kits allowing you to single out one of the billions and call it your own.

It includes a map detailing your star’s coordinates to see where it actually lives in the sky along with custom-made cards.

TAKE A CLASS Show love’s true meaning by doing something that’s out of your comfort zone.

If neither cooking nor dancing is your thing as a couple, give either a try on this day by attending a class together. Both artsy activities are considered equally romantic that you may end up wanting to do more.

For starters, do baking for the sweet desserts and salsa for the sweet moves.

GO ON A PICNIC ROAD TRIP Visit various emirates and explore places that you haven’t seen before. Plan your route and include stopovers in quiet and not so crowded spots where you can simply set-up your mat and picnic baskets. Since it will be a full day drive, choose locations where you can relax, talk and laugh together.

HOST A GROUP DATE If you can’t stand cheesy stuff but really up for fun, then host a couples’ BBQ party in your place. Get the griller out, arrange the skewers, fill the cooler with drinks, ask your friends to bring some snacks and you’re all set. Prepare some board or ‘truth or dare’ games to add a bit more fun to the day.

Celebrate love as one big party by enjoying each other’s company.

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PINOY BYAHE GUIDE > See the world, kabayan! Here’s how.

Guide to

Buthan By > PHILIP STO. DOMINGO

TRAVEL DATES: March 28 to 31, 2016 (A 4-day Soul Searching Retreat!)

WHY I WANTED TO VISIT THIS PLACE

TRAVEL BUDGET: Approx 7,500 AED (inclusive of airfares: from DubaiDelhi-Paro/ Paro-Delhi-Dubai)

When your back is up against the wall and and you’re in dire need of a good and a peaceful place for soul searching and self-discovery, where else should you go but to the world’s happiest country which is Bhutan.

Labeled as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon”, it is a remote Bhuddist Kingdom on the Himalayas’ eastern edge and is landlocked between Tibet, Nepal, China and India. A place where you can find solace and commune with nature at the same time.

Daily Tariff: $290.00 per night Visa Fee: $40.00 The minimum Daily Tariff per night/ head includes:

• • • • • •

Accommodation in 3 star hotels All Meals in 3 star hotels / restaurant etc All travel with a licensed English Tour Guide All inland Transport Entrance fees for all visiting points Mineral drinking water

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PINOY BYAHE GUIDE > See the world, kabayan! Here’s how.

Great Buddha Dordenma in Kuenselphodrang, Thimpu, Bhutan

The best way to start your trip is to have a quick visit to Buddha Dordenma located at the top of the mountain of Bhutan. It is a gigantic Buddha statue at 169 feet and contains over 100,000 gilded bronze Buddhas inside. Gorgeous paintings adorned the walls as well.

The complex also provides a bird’s-eye view of the city and the green wilderness below. The area is large, peaceful and astoundingly beautiful.

Tashichho Dzong at Chhagchhen Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan

Tashichho Dzong (also known as Thimphu Dzong) has been the seat of the government since 1952 and presently houses the throne room and offices of the king, the secretariat and the ministries of home affairs and finance. Other government departments are housed in buildings nearby. This dzong (fortress) is located close to Thimpu town and it is an impressive large structure surrounded by well-kept lawns and beautiful gardens. This is such a gorgeous place that captures the culture of Bhutan due to the colourful architecture and arts inside. Such a haven for photo enthusiast! Good to visit anytime of the day but it is even more gorgeous during evening as it is beautifully lit.

Paro Rinpung Dzong at Paro, Bhutan

Paro Rinpung Dzong is a large Buddhist Monastery and fortress located only a few minutes drive from Paro International Airport. Over-looking the fortress is the National Museum of Bhutan also known as Ta-Dzong, showcasing the art of living of Bhutanese people. Also in the museum are numerous exemplary show of endangered flora and fauna and the rich biodiversity of animals is Bhutan.This is another haven for photo enthusiast due to its beautiful architecture with deeply textured floors and great paintings. The place also houses about 200 monks complete with prayer halls, classrooms and festival grounds. illustrado go>27

PINOY BYAHE GUIDE > See the world, kabayan! Here’s how.

Below the dzong, a traditional wooden covered bridge called Nyamai Zamis located. The current bridge is a reconstruction of the original one. An earlier version of this bridge was removed in time of war to protect the fortress. The best part to take the pictures of Paro Dzong can be taken just downstream from the bridge.

Paro Taktshang also known as Taktshang Palphug Monastery / Tiger’s Nest at Paro Valley, Bhutan

It would be a “sin” to not visit the Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. This is the most famous landmark in Bhutan and located at the top

of an 800 meter cliff in Paro. The place is widely regarded as one of the most important monastery in Bhutan and its history is associated with the visit of Guru Padmasambhava, the Indian saint who came to Bhutan in the 8th century AD. The construction of the monastery happened in 1692 and completed after three years in 1694.

It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours trek to reach the top (depends on your fitness level).

Some roads are easy but there are paths that challenges your physical capabilities.

I highly recommend that you bring lots of water and sweets to hydrate and replenish your body. Do not bring unnecessary items as this will only slow down your ascent to the mountain. Usually it’s cold at the top so bring some warmers though the trek will surely make you sweat. Note that

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PINOY BYAHE GUIDE > See the world, kabayan! Here’s how.

no photographs are allowed inside the monastery but the view during the trek and atop the mountain is amazing in itself so make sure to stop once in a while to appreciate the scenic view.

Your trip to Bhutan is never complete without climbing Tiger’s nest. The journey fills you with spiritual bliss and reaching the top provides immeasurable sense of achievement.

TOP TIPS FOR VISITING THIS PLACE

• If you transit via Kathmandu or Delhi, select or request a left window seat, so you could enjoy amazing himalayan snow mountain view. From Bhutan returns to Kathmandu, choose right window seat.

• Bhutan doesn’t allow smoking. Tourists need to pay 200% tax if you want to bring cigarettes and smoking in public area is not allowed and considered offensive.

• Respect local religion and traditions.

Please take off shoes and caps when entering into temples and consult

your guide before taking photos inside monasteries and temples.

• Dress conservatively and don’t show affection in public places. Dzong is a government office place and tourists with sleeveless shirt are not allowed to come inside, so prepare a long sleeve shirt if you are visiting Dzongs.

• When shopping, the prices are usually fixed so no need to haggle. Also most places are not used to tipping. You tip only your guide and driver, and when on trek, the porters and cook.

• Get in touch with the Bhutan Life Exposure Tours and Treks - One must need the support of a registered travel agency in Bhutan in order to get visa and tours.

For my Bhutan Trip, I used “BLE Tours and Treks” to fulfil my dream of visiting this great country. Their website: http://www. ble.bt THE MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE I HAD IN THIS PLACE

Traveling to Bhutan is a memorable experience that I am not likely to forget.

I have been to so many places but never have I seen a country as religious as Bhutan. Approximately 75% of the population follow Buddhism and the remaining practice Hinduism. Aside from the warmth and hospitality of the Bhutanese people, their charming country mesmerized me for its simplicity and natural beauty. Climbing Tiger’s Nest puts a big ‘tick’ mark on my bucket list, but I can say that one of the highlights of my trip was when I get the chance to have a heart to heart talk with one of the monks manning an old Temple in Paro. It was indeed a very liberating experience learning something from a very sincere monk telling me about the meaning of life, happiness and how to overcome sufferings in this world. One quote from him that I will never forget is that “Happiness comes from within and it can be achieved through helping others”. Traveling and seeing the beauty of this world is great but learning your ‘life purpose’ while you travel is priceless.

Yes, Bhutan is expensive, but it is a trip worth taking. @philipdomingo #follow_ipe

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ANGAS PINAS

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Pinoy Pride. Kabayan Yabang. Ganyan tayo eh!

CRISTETA COMERFORD: THE WHITE HOUSE EXECUTIVE CHEF B y > E x c e l V. D y q u i a n g c o

Her memory dates back to the constant smell of food, remembering how her grandparents who used to own a rice paddy, a fishpond, and livestock in Manila would just bring everything to her plate.

Each bit and piece was just right there in the backyard, says White House Executive Chef Cristeta Comerford.

“If you wanted to have chicken for dinner, you had to catch your own chicken and give it to grandma so she could pluck it for you,” she exclaims. “Since I grew up in a big family, there’s always food in the house. Cooking at home was like cooking for banquets. It just never stops. Then with my parents coming from two different regions of the Philippines, we were exposed to different cuisines indicative of the two regions. We became a family of cooks.”

In her early twenties, she decided to leave for the United States to carry on what she started in the country. From her first job as a chef in the kitchen of an airport hotel to a rotating chef in Vienna, Austria for six months, she has grown remarkably in her career - not just trying out different recipes but accommodating the culture and history of everyone she has the privilege of cooking for.

In 1998, her world expanded when she was asked to work in the White House under the Administration of Bill Clinton.

In an interview with Real Simple, she says, “When opportunity knocks, you’ve got to open the door and grab it. The sous chef at the White House was leaving to open a restaurant. Walter Scheib, the chef at the

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time, said, ‘Hey Cris, are you interested?’ At that time, I had my own restaurant in D.C., The Colonnade, but I knew this would be a great opportunity and honor. So I took the position. That was back in ‘98.”

In 2005, she was appointed to the position of Executive Chef by former First Lady Laura Bush and was reappointed to the same position by Former First Lady Michelle Obama.

Her Journey inside the White House

Her responsibilities as Executive Chef range from taking care of the First Family to executing and designing menus for official receptions, state dinners, and social events, among others. The position also gives her the opportunity to belong to an elite gastronomic society called Le Club des Chefs des Chefs of which only the personal or executive chef of a Head of State fit in.

Working for three administrations now, she shares that each family has different likes and dislikes. But their similarities prevail: all adore healthy foods. For the Obamas, she says it was utilizing whatever they grow in their garden, using items that they have and using natural-fed and grass-fed chickens and beef.

Her most memorable event to date: “For example, it could be a dinner for just the two of them – the President and the First Lady. Just seeing the two of them eat is cool. For me, that is more memorable,” she says.

In spite of her hectic schedule, however, Chef Comerford still treasures her family above all. In an interview with Asia Society, she shares, “I really owe a lot in my career to my husband, John. When I did get the job, he looked at me and said, ‘Cris, you know this job is going to take a lot from you, but I’m going to make it easy.’ And so he took a step back.”

She adds that she is also very protective of Saturday because it is only the day of the week reserved for family. “My daughter Danielle and I try out different recipes. She loves to bake.”

Her future projects include putting up a bed and breakfast when she and her husband retire and helping the underprivileged kids in the community by teaching them how to cook.

Sources: MsMagazine.com, RealSimple.com, GMANetwork.com

Filipino Progress & Diversity

at the work place >

MAGIE ATIENZA Senior Service Engineer – Siemens LLC Dubai Dubai, UAE My Job I am a Senior Service Engineer at Siemens LLC Dubai, playing the role of Country Administrator for Siemens innovative energy management solution - Advantage Navigator. I am responsible in managing the Advantage Operation Center located in Siemens Office Building with various systems and sites remotely connected and monitored. Also, part of my duty is to provide Sales and Technical support to our UAE team, in coordination with our support team in Siemens Center of Competence for Middle East & Asia Pacific in Singapore and Siemens Headquarters in Switzerland.

Being a female Professional Electronics Engineer, I am very grateful to be given a chance to practice my profession in this place where technical jobs are rarely given to women. My work brought me to wonderful places I never thought I could ever have landed – Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Denmark, India, Qatar, Hong Kong, and Singapore. It was an honor to represent Siemens UAE in various global trainings and workshops, with the goal of echoing the innovations and development in technology to colleagues here in the UAE. I conduct in-house Technical Trainings for colleagues, as well as Customer Trainings, which supports my passion to teaching and educating others.

Homeschooling Mom Being a working mother while

homeschooling my son, Miggy, has always been a challenge. But, by God’s grace and provision, i am able to manage my time and energy to play both roles. Now, we are on our 3rd year of homeschooling. I have my own reasons of homeschooling – great bonding time with my son, I can design curriculum which best suits him, giving early development of his potentials and supporting his interests, and most of all, instilling the values I wanted my son to have and keep. My son enjoys learning from “Inay” (mother), and as long as he enjoys and learns from me as his parent-teacher, we will continue to learn together. Despite learning at home, he is very sociable and can deal with fellow kids and even with grown-ups, which makes me decide to continue with this not-so-traditional but great education approach.

Leader and Philanthropist It was an honor to be the First Female President and Chairman of the Board, and a great privilege to lead the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines, IECEP-UAE Chapter in 2012, which was awarded Best Foreign Chapter, and currently, I am one of the advisers of this professional organization of Filipino Electronics Engineers and Technicians.

With our vision of being a world-class organization of humane, competent, virtuous and globally-competitive electronics professionals, the organization supports the continuing professional

development of our members by conducting trainings, workshops, networking events, conventions, and other professional gatherings. We also help and support our members in pursuing their dream of being licensed professionals through reviews and coaching in preparation for the Special Professional Licensure Board Examination (SPLBE), being conducted annually here in the UAE. We have various charity projects in coordination with Philippine Embassy and POLO-OWWA, helping our distressed kababayans.

I truly believe that God has called me to giving. Together with my siblings and close friends here and in the Philippines, we started the Lapis at Papel Outreach Program, which we hold every year, summertime in the Philippines, right before the opening of schools in June. For the last 6 consecutive years, this charity program has helped parents and kids by giving out free school supplies.The objective of the program is to provide assistance to underprivileged children by giving them basic school supplies to be used for incoming school year.

My Message to Fellow OFWs God has His great plans for us, the reason why we are all still breathing and living. He wants the best life for us, and the best is yet to come. In every endeavor, give your best and, yes, God will do the rest.

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FASHION

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PHOTOGRAPHY: DR. MARLON PECJO STYLING: CHARMAINE PALERMO AND VANESSA JOHNSON OF MONSTERS PRODUCTION MAKE-UP: OMAR ERMITA FOR SHU UEMURA HAIR: GEORGE ALIBEN FOR KIEHL’S STYLIST SERIES MODELS: CATRIONA GRAY OF IM AGENCY AND MARK MCMAHON OF ELITE AGENCY MANILA

Your Heart Is As

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FASHION

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Black As Night But why it gotta be red?

Love comes in many forms, scales, and hues.

What’s grand can be grotesque.

What’s magnificent can be mortifying.

Keep loving the way you do.

Mesh long sleeves top by Charina Sarte match with silver and black leather strips pencil skirt by Eric de los Santos ii ll ll u us s tt rr a ad do o g go o> >3 33 3

FASHION

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Jerome Lorico ensembles made of knitwear from indigenous materials blended with cottonpiĂąa with tribal ornaments illustrado go>34

FASHION

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On Catriona: Mesh long sleeves top by Charina Sarte match with silver and black leather strips pencil skirt by Eric de los Santos On Mark : ensemble by Jerome Lorico illustrado go>35

FASHION

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Charina Sarte swimwear with LZ Punzalan wool bolero with Terno sleeves; Lulu Tan Gan shoulder accessories with metal chain; Chris Diaz metal hands

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FASHION

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On Catriona: Chris Diaz skinny trousers and jacket with structured shoulders embellished with crystals and capiz shells

by Mitch Dulce; dyed abaca crown hat On Him: ensemble by Jerome Lorico illustrado go>37

BEAUTY > Kagandahan 101

Date Night Eleganza By> Louise Monique

@thelouisemonique

Oh yes, it’s the month of love but for y’all single gals out there, no need to fret. You don’t need a man to have a date. You can have a good old girl’s night out with the squad. Or why not do something liberating like a dining for one and celebrating your love for yourself, because that’s where it all begins, right? Whether you’re head over heels in love, single or just want to have fun, you can totally dig this make-up look.

1 Bareface Great make-up starts with healthy skin. The best thing you could give yourself for V-day is the gift of skin pampering. Perhaps, book yourself some facial sesh? Because we all know self-love is the foundation of that head over heels kind of love.

You need to love yourself first before you can fully love someone else.

For this look, I used my trusty Embyolisse Lait Crème Concentré and let my skin absorb it for 3 minutes. Then I primed it with my favorite Retexture Cream Face Primer from Theory Natural Beauty.

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2 Contour & Highlight Different strokes for different folks but if I’m doing make-up on myself, I like to start with highlight and contour. I used Flawless Foundation Stick from Theory Natural Beauty in numbers 3 & 7.

3 3. BLEND! If you skipped workout, you’ll still tone those biceps from blending your make-up! Before applying my foundation, I like blending my contour and highlight so I know how much coverage I need, in this case, I’ll only apply 2 pumps of my Nars All Day Luminous Foundation.

Blending is 40% of the job, as nobody wants to see that harsh contour line on your face.

4 Foundation There is a circulating photo of a Filipina Celebrity who’s all about natural beauty and not putting any make-up on. But hey! No shame in putting on make-up. It doesn’t matter how much or how little make-up you want on your face. So slap that make-up on as you please!

Don’t let anyone stop you from doing what you like.

For foundation, I’m currently in love with Nars All Day Luminous Foundation and my shade is Stromboli. After highlighting and contouring, I only apply about 2 pumps of the product on my face since the Flawless Foundation Stick from Theory Natural Beauty already gives great coverage. I used the infamous Banana Powder from Ben Nye to set & lock my foundation.

7

Blush, Contour & Highlight I want the eyes to be the focal point of this look so I used softer colors on the other areas of my face. I used my BH Cosmetics Glamour Blush Palette for blush, Laura Mercier Candlelight Glow Powder no. 6 to contour the hollows of my cheeks and nose.

For highlighting, I used my all time favorite, Giella Custom Blend Cosmetics Eye M Glam Mineral Highlighter in M Glam.

6

BEAUTY > Kagandahan 101

5 Brows For brows, since I had my brows microbladed, I just fill it in lightly, in case there’s a smear of foundation in my brows I clean it up and fill my brows using Brow Zings from Benefit.

Eyeshadow Since it’s the month of love, I opted for a romantic yet fierce look – because I can’t do just romantic, and fierce is just too much for a Valentine’s look so I used pinks & blacks.

I used the Huda Beauty Rose Gold Palette for this eyeshadow look. I applied Flamingo all over my lids to begin with, Maneater & Bossy on my crease, Moon Dust on my brow bone & the inner corner of my eyes. I then dabbed a little bit of Fling on top of my lids just to make my eyes pop. On my lower lashline, I used Bossy and Black Truffle.

For lashes, I used D’lashcious in Picture Perfect to add more emphasis on my eyes.

8

Lips To complement the eyes, I used a shade of pink that almost matches my eyeshadow. I used the Too Faced Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick in Melted Berry.

To make sure that my make-up stays all throughout date night, I doused myself in MAC Prep and Prime Fix. Remember, ladies, you don’t need a man to look beautiful. It’s your birthright to look gorgeous for yourself. Go and indulge yourself in make-up as you please.

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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VISUAL ARTIST

KEVIN SABINO

Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

My Art I am a former Head of Art and Creative Director of a multinational advertising agency. Now, I am a Creative and Design Consultant for various multinational brands. But more importantly, I am a fulltime painter – something that I’ve always considered as my calling.

I spent part of my childhood by the sea.

I grew up in Boracay island and Panay island in Aklan, where the culture is a vibrant mix of religious and ancestral beliefs. Stories from our grand parents tell of mystical beings like wakwak, aswang, kapre,and sigbin. We also have the world famous Ati-atihan Festival. As a kid, I was influenced by all of these colorful festivity and mystery. This is evident by the aesthetic I have today.

I love colors. My figurative paintings are

always very graphic and highly stylized. This stems from my Advertising years, when I used to handle beauty products..

My ink paintings are really my own. I use traditional Chinese inks but I render them in a Westernized style using paper, canvas and wood surfaces.

I think my work is different, in that it doesn’t look “Filipino.”

I don’t follow any genre. I have different styles. I change styles depending on my mood on a particular day. This way my expression is always spontaneous and fresh.

My Process I seek inspiration from my childhood experiences. I’ve always loved the process of creation – from ideation to seeing the final result. I don’t usually sketch before painting.. especially when i do my ink paintings. I thrive love in unpredictability. I use mainly watercolor,acrylic and mixed media.

I keep myself inspired by driving; no destination in mind.

Just driving around and seeing where the roads take me.

Weekly, I drive in the mountains of Rizal, or around the lake of Laguna. Up to this day, I also do this ritual when I go home to Boracay.

My Journey, so far…

I started to paint seriously 2 years ago. I’ve exhibited twice in my hometown, at the Museo it Akean. However, my real joy is posting work online, and selling it there without the “Politics of Art” and without the help of galleries. So far I’m really grateful for positive response I’ve been getting.

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I think my work is different, in that it doesn’t look “Filipino.” I don’t follow any genre. I have different styles. I change styles depending on my mood on a particular day.

This way my expression is always spontaneous and fresh.

I think online is the new venue for Arts. One of the highlights of my career was when my first painting was bought by a National Artist for music. During my Advertising years, I won recognition from have festivals in London, Hollywood and New York. I also have a Guinnes book of World Records for my design for Levis.

I have designed and illustrated 5 children’s books that were published and marketed in the US, and are also available in Amazon.com Moving forward, I would simply love to be able to still do what I do, but have my reach magnified ten-fold.

There is plenty of art in me, and I would be honored to share it to as much of the world as possible.

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.

VERDAD Band

We keep ourselves inspired through sharing what we call each other’s treasure of playlist. Something we have not heard of before can create a ripple effect to try and create something we have not done before.

And at most times we keep attending as much musical events as we can to broaden our grip on original music.

Our Journey, so far What makes our work own is that just by listening to our music you can distinguish different aspects of each member – a hint of progressive, post-rock, metal, reggae etc. How it differs from other works is not something we can really put into words as it differs in a lot of different aspects. But in our own perspective we try to be true to ourselves in our own songs, and let it mold itself into something different – but a good kind of different, one that gives you shivers down your spine.

Our Music Creating original music has been one of the bands main motivators when we started as Verdad; to mold different aspects of music we are entwined with and create something different. Mutually believing that music is borrowed, we want to break down and mold all the different types of music like a puzzle and create something different.

We are motivated to pursue this craft mainly because, originally we always wanted to pursue the reason why we got our band name. Verdad is Spanish for “Of the truth”. We live up to this name by staying true to ourselves and letting our individual influences merge and mutate into what we call our own collective identity. We love it because this has been our outlet and what we believe to be the highest form of expression. And in some cases it gives us the kind of fulfillment which every musician is looking for.

It all started with just wanting to play gigs in local bars. That urge to be on stage and play music, but as soon as we got the time to finally play together we recognized the chemistry and took a leap of faith to make

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it happen and write our own material.

Our Process Our process for creating music solely relies on everyone sitting down together, starting out with a couple of drinks and just letting those creative juices flow naturally. But with that being said, we are very lenient with creating songs. We adapted a rule wherein, once a member doesn’t comply with what we’ve created for at least a couple of tries, that song goes down the bin. We start with the backbone of the song and play with the melody later on.

How we manage the creating process is directly correlated on how we mutually try to create something that is musically pleasant for each member. It might sometimes start slow and on other occasions it can turn out to nothing.

Tension can grow on such situations, but we try as much as we can to take a fresh breath of air and help each other with producing something we all can relate to.

Up until we do a final check in the studio if what we’ve created is something we can do a full throttle in its entirety.

Our journey as a band of musicians has been quite a ride. Starting off we just wanted to play at local bars and in some occasions talk about what it would feel like to be able to get your own original song being played on the radio, and to be able to have your own CD. It all seem farfetched back then, but after much anticipation we had a track played in the radio. And then finally, we got to share the stage with bands we looked up to and we got to release our own album named as “Lifepath 22” under Blacksheep Records.

Our advice for our fellow artists Write your own material – plain and simple.

Writing your own material gives your band its identity. Secondly, it broadens your horizon of your own capabilities, individually and as a band. You grow in ways you cannot fathom.

Another thing is to keep on exploring.

Music is borrowed, but we all can tap into that stream of endless possibilities and create something that we can call ours and that is something that is timeless.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Verdad is Spanish for “Of the truth�. We live up to this name by staying true to ourselves and letting our individual influences merge and mutate into what we call our own collective identity. We love it because this has been our outlet and what we believe to be the highest form of expression.

> @verdad.music > Verdad Music > Photos by Angelo Aguilor

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SCRAPBOOK >

BETHOVEN FILOMENO DUBAI, UAE http://bethovenfilomeno.wixsite.com/ bethovenfilomeno

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SCRAPBOOK >

NORMAN PINEDA CUNANAN RIYADH, KSA www.nhorms143.lens.ph

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ILLUSTRAGRAMMERS

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A roundup of the Instagrammers we love

#RelationshipGoals!

While you are browsing the Internet looking for a great restaurant for a date this Valentine’s, stop by the feeds of these Instagram power couples and take a gander at their #RelationshipGoals posts.

Editor’s note for the single ones out there: didn’t mean to make you feel bad! Take note of these poses because these photos might be useful in the future. :)

FROM TRAVELING TOGETHER TO GOING TO COSTUME PARTIES, THESE TWO ARE ALWAYS ROCKING IN STYLE! THESE TWO HAVE MASTERED THE ART OF POSING AS COUPLE AND WE THINK THAT’S BEAUTIFUL. DAVID GUISON & VINA GUERRERO @davidguison, @vinaguerrero

A LONG-TIME COUPLE AND PARTNERS IN CRIME, SEPH AND TRICE HAVE BEEN TOGETHER FOR BETTER LIGHTING OR WORST, IN FITNESS EXERCISE AND IN HEALTHY EATING - TILL THE RESURRECTION OF FRIENDSTER DO THEY PART. SEPH CHAM & TRICE NAGUSARA @sephcham, @tricenagusara

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ILLUSTRAGRAMMERS

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A roundup of the Instagrammers we love

LOOKING AT THEIR PHOTOS DOESN’T MAKE US FEEL SO BAD ABOUT OUR RELATIONSHIP STATUS. MARJANNE AND JULIAN, WHO RECENTLY GOT ENGAGED NEVER FAIL TO MAKE US FEEL “KILIG”. LUCKY YOU MRS. SUAREZ TO BE, FOR HAVING A PHOTOGRAPHER BOYFRIEND, YOUR INSTAGRAM FEED IS NOW SECURED TO BE ALWAYS ON POINT. MARJANNE CO & JULIAN SUAREZ @marjanne.co, @jasuarez

TALKING ABOUT POWER COUPLES, AIN’T NO WAY WE MISS OUT MENTIONING NINA AND JAY. THEY PRETTY MUCH OWN THE CATEGORY! THEY DO THINGS TOGETHER AND MAKE EACH OTHER TRY NEW STUFF, LIKE THAT TIME WHEN NINA JOINED JAY’S MUAY THAI CLASS. THEY ARE NOT JUST ABOUT FASHION AND COUPLE OOTDS, YOU KNOW. NINA & JAY CARPIO @smilelikenina, @im_that_dude

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CURATED FASHION

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Tips and tricks from the Internet’s best Pinoy style savants!

A (Single) Girl’s Guide to Dressing for Valentine’s Day By > Bettina Micu

@bettinamicu

Photo By > Marlon O. Empaynado

F

ebruary 14th is on its way, which is always a good time to celebrate love- yes, even if you’re living that single life, round up some unattached chicks because a girls night out is always a good idea! Think about it: you don’t have to stress over looking for the most expensive dinner joint in town or whether your partner is getting you a gift and if you should too. You just get to have loads of fun and I teach you how to do it while looking hot AF. Put together an outfit that’s not only guy friendly but also stylish enough to win a thumbs up from all your girlfriends. Forget about your skin tight mini dresses! There are a million other ways to look hot without having to wear what every other girl is this day. Have fun and don’t forget to implement your personality into your look- you should look like you still.

Using interesting fabrics and prints makes any look fancier and more expensive. Tweeds, lace, satin, and velvet are great fabrics to mix in to elevate your outfit this day! Don’t forget, if you are going for something loud and colorful balance it out with something muted (nudes, blacks, whites, and grays are your safest bet when pairing with a loud piece) and if you’re wearing something loose as bottoms keep it tight up top and vice versa. Balance is key and don’t forget to be climate appropriate!

Add a pop of color- go for red! Yes, as cliché as wearing red on Valentine’s day is you can always opt for a darker shade of it or add in the shade subtly, use a red bag, get a red manicure, or just put on some red lipstick! It never hurt anyone to be a little festive!

Bring your best posture out today and throw on your heels . This is fool-proof. It makes everything in your body look just right and although it does

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wonders for you it’s still important to pick a pair that you’d be comfortable in. Sure those 5-inch stilettos look good at first - till you’re walking home with an awkward limp.

Safest bet is to keep some flats in your car/ bag. There’s always something sexy about strappy, lacey, or cut out heels. You can also opt for something safer like a pointed toe stiletto. All else fails, nude is always a good idea when choosing heels. Not only

will it match with all your outfits it will give you the illusion of longer looking legs!

Now, if your outfit still needs it, stack on some metal on your wrist and fingers.

Luckily, unlike engaged girls who have to wear the same ring day-in and day Now slay Valentine’s Day, girl!

CURATED FASHION

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Tips and tricks from the Internet’s best Pinoy style savants!

Shop the look:

Accessories: Call it Spring

Heels: Call It Spring

Bag: DUNE London

Skirt: Aeropostale

Top: Aeropostale

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WEARING IT WELL

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

ABBEY RAMOS STYLIST

What role does fashion play in your daily life?

As a stylist of a big name fashion brand here in Middle East, fashion is my bread and butter.

I’ve been in fashion industry for 8 years, so I can say that aside from using it to express myself, , it is a daily game that I need to play. I make money out of fashion!

Do you consider the regular you a fashionable person?

Being fashionable is not a consideration it is a statement that you need to express in able for you to stand out among the rest. So…it’s a Yes! I can say I am in my own unique way.

What do you typically wear daily?

White shirt, classic jeans and a powerful kicks!

What can’t you live without?

MONEY! (So I can get all the “must have’s” and buy all the fashion essentials.) LOL. What is your fashion philosophy?

It’s not about the FASHION that you’re wearing nor the TREND that you’re following… It’s the CONFIDENCE that you’re showing!” @abs4abbey

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ILLUSTRADO STUFF >

Sure, it’s the thought that counts ± but come Valentine’s season, those thoughts betta be good!

Not so sure of what to get for your sweetiepie aside from the usual chocolates and roses? Here are some rad ideas!

LUXURY CANDLES BY JO MALONE When it comes to all things olfactory, Jo Malone has become a tried-and-tested institution. From colognes to home accessories, this brand has your senses covered with its wide range of deliciously scented products. We are big fans of their luxury lines of candles, in particular. Sure, each could go for an upwards of $400, but those babies can burn up to 230 hours! And they fill your space with the most amazing fragrance that are sure to put you (and whoever should be so lucky to be with you) in the mood. Try the Wild Fig and Cassis!

TREEWISE PENCILS How come nobody writes love letters anymore? There’s nothing as romantic as a thoughtfully composed, handwritten note from someone you love. And if you don’t trust yourself enough with ink, go for a pencil.

And if you’re going for a pencil, why not go for one that helps save the environment?

Treewise Pencils are made from 100% recycled newspapers. Take pride in the idea that a tree didn’t have to die for your #hugot. www.treewisepencils.com

WE LEFT AS HUMANS We’ve had the chance to witness the band We Left As Humans as they released their selftitled album. The experience had us gagging for oxygen and clawing at the tables. They are that good. Their live act is only matched by their prowess as recording artists. The musicality is such at a phenomenal high that you wouldn’t even mind the lack of lyrics and lead vocals.

Their sound is simultaneously progressive and primal – the sort of music that gets you to ponder theoretical physics while appealing to your beastly nature. Purchase the digital album here: www.weleftashumans.bandcamp.com

MOGADOR CAKE BY SHAKESPEARE AND CO. The website says, “Chocolate sponge biscuit, macaronade biscuit with chocolate mousse, praline cream and covered in dark chocolate glaze and roasted hazelnuts.” We say, “Holy smokes this is the best chocolate cake ever!”

It’s an accepted dictum in science that chocolate activates the same happiness chemicals in your brain as love, and the Mogador Cake by Shakespeare and Co. is so good, it borders on the obscene. It’s practically erotic. www.shakespeare-andco.com

SPLENDOR BOARD GAME So okay, playing a board game isn’t exactly a popular option for date night, but it could make for a mentally intimate experience, especially if you play it with a person you’re really into. Board games have experienced a resurgence in recent times, and Splendor is one of the more well-loved titles. It’s easy and quick to learn, the turn-based system is reminiscent of the good ol’ playing cards, and the artwork is truly a sight to behold – almost Da Vinci like.

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MONEY

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Make money. Maintain that money. Money pa more!

By> Francisco Colayco

T

he question “how do you find a financial planner and what questions should I ask him/her to gauge competency?” is precisely what I cover in Chapter 5 of my book “Making Your Money Work.” As in any decision to invest and grow your savings, it is important to know exactly where you are.

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

The road to financial freedom requires that you first know the following: • What assets and other resources you have now; • How much debt and other obligations you have now; • What you are financially worth (your net worth); • How much income you are generating now; • How much you are spending now; and • How much you need to spend for the kind of lifestyle you choose to live?

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

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

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

A planner should be able to help you do the following: • Prepare your Statement of Assets and Liabilities; • Make a budget so that you live only within your chosen lifestyle and follow the principle of: Income - Savings = Expenses • Allocate your assets to ensure a diverse investment portfolio; • Ensure that you have sufficient insurance for yourself, your family and your properties; • Keep your tax payments at the lowest cost within the law; • Plan for your children’s education and your retirement; • Help you prepare legal documents to protect your financial interests while you are living; and

• Prepare a plan for your heirs in the event of your demise.

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

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

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

For more information, visit www. colaycofoundation.com.

SENSE AND SPIRITUALITY

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Finding your true self as you make sense of the world

So, if it works for you that you don’t know each other’s Facebook password, who am I to argue with you?

However, if you don’t have anything to hide, what is it that you fear?

Lying This should be a no-brainer, but for many people in a relationship, it’s simply not.

People lie. Sometimes not that much.

Sometimes a whole lot.

And that says so much about the health and eventual death of a relationship. You have to tell the truth. You have to tell the truth all the time. You have to really B yother > Rthat o myou a n will G ualways evara promise each be truthful to one another no matter what.

Now, that is really hard. Whoever said it was going to be easy?

Disrespecting You have to respect each other. At some point you will find out many things regarding the person you love. Things that are sensitive, embarrassing, strange, weird, ugly, and just flat out wrong.

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here are no hard and fast formulas for a perfect relationship, but there are some things that are generally considered as romance dealbreakers. Here are 7 of the WORST things you could do to your relationship.

Not listening I talk a lot. I talk for a living. And I’ve been talking a lot, for a very, very long time. And why not? I read a lot as well. (You should visit my personal library in Al Barsha, I love entertaining visitors). I watch a lot of movies. I listen to myriad of songs. And I’m 40 years old.

People like me have a problem. Whether we admit it or not. We don’t listen that much.

In fact, we talk too much. And that my friend, is a relationship killer. It’s one of the worst!

You want people to listen to you? Start doing it yourself. Listen to your partner.

Listen to your lover. Listen to your husband, your wife. Listen to your friend. In fact, be sensitive. You solve relationship problems early when you listen.

Forgetting important dates We love anniversaries. We spend money on them. We go to the finest restaurants. We make an event because of them. And then you forgot. You just forgot. Wow.

Then forget having any more anniversaries.

This is the beginning of the end. And it’s not just anniversaries or monthsaries - it’s everything important in your lives: the day you first met, the place where you first had your date, the first movie. All of the firsts.

All of the favorites. All of the details.

Now sometimes you get to be with someone who is not that sentimental. So I guess you will be fine forgetting a lot of stuff. But most of the time, everyone wants to be with someone they can share their life with and create new memories with.

And it all goes down the drain, when you simply just don’t remember.

Hiding something What’s your Facebook password? She has to know. He has to know. The two of you should know. For sure, not everyone agrees with this, and I understand. Different relationships, different rules. There is no magic formula.

But you love this person. You accept him.

You understand him. You protect him. You respect him even. Until of course you fight.

And you forget all the wonderful promises you once made to each other; including, to keep certain things secret.

Nagging And you could nag about these ugly things again and again while you are fighting.

And then everything becomes darker and darker. How suddenly everything is different. People just wake up sometimes and discover, they are no longer happy.

They can’t pin point one reason why. But the nagging is just not helping. It’s making things worse.

Depriving Im talking about physical intimacy. If you are in a committed relationship; if you are a responsible adult; if you are married, this is what you always do. You get intimate.

Nothing can be so downright humiliating when your partner deprives you of this.

If you feel that there is a deficiency in physical intimacy in your relationship, talk to your partner about it as soon and as deeply as you can. My advice: get professional counseling the soonest.

It ain’t over til the fat lady sings.

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ILLUSTRADO NOM NOMS > Because we. Love. FOOD.

by > Rosan Katlea Reodica

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ucked neatly in the heart of DIFC, one level up in a residential building, Dinamico Restaurant, upon entering it, would give you that homey vibe with its warm lights, small space, open kitchen and an outdoor area one would imagine poetry nights, barbecues and music nights for. In fact, they do host these community events.

The space is inviting to extend dinners on, to talk about nonsensical necessaries and complicated beauties with friends and family. Apologies for trying to wax poetic; the charming place just got us hook, line and sinker. Being an authentic Italian restaurant, its interiors weren’t kitsch at all, no need for overused chalkboards and fake checkered tablecloths. Eames chairs, blade lighting, highlight pieces using the Fibonacci golden ratio – it all made for an authentic if not understated visual experience. We were lucky to have been walked through with the conceptualization by the owner himself, Nicola, who delighted us with stories of his Sicilian family and the comfort cuisine of Southern Italy, where most of the dishes are based on.

We chose to sit outside – a spacious area of manicured trees with inviting beanbags scattered about, charming you into relaxing after a hefty meal.

Our winter night was made perfect being first served their assorted freshly baked bread with olive dip, warm octopus salad with capers, olives and potatoes, plus what dreams are made of: classic burrata with heirloom tomatoes and basil. I was

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happy dancing after that first spoonful of mozzarella and cream. Plates cleared after a short break, three dishes of heaven came in a slow manner. First up: risotto with porcini mushrooms and truffles. Topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese, the risotto was a bowl of world peace, your grandma’s smile and the worst work deadline accomplished and approved.

Their tagliatelle pasta with beef ragout was al dente and the ragout perfectly added the savory goodness for such a simple dish. The third and last main was an eight slice pizza of – are you ready? – perfect thin slices of beef carpaccio, parmesan shavings, fresh rocket leaves, mozzarella and truffle cream. This is the pizza I want.

Not oily, droopy and forced to take all on the messy toppings it could. Italians, you are patron saints of our carb-loving selves.

In between courses, Nicola would sit with us and share stories, you would feel how authentic he is because it isn’t about business or hard selling his restaurant to us, but by continuing to tell us of his culture, how he makes it a point to cater to different art and culture groups, how he wants to make sure his patron customers are called out by their names. His food, though being great conversation starters took a backseat with his passion. You can’t top that. But then again, having the last bites of their panna cotta and chocolate and pistachio cannoli filed with fresh ricotta cream made me understand that this is a surefire way of knowing that each creation is made of pure, unadulterated edible love.

@practicingmisis

I can imagine having enjoyable alone-time slow breakfasts and laughter-filled lunch here too because their wait staff are friends you’d want to enjoy a sit down conversation with. They are well-versed in their Italian ingredients without having to sound too haughty for their “authentic cuisine.” Quick, attentive service without the constant hovering while you enjoy stuffing your face with goodness.

Stop looking for anywhere else authentic, authentic is synonymous to Dinamico:

- Simple, comforting Italian cuisine goodness - Price point is perfect for group sharing - Great place to fill up before a night of partying around DIFC I just wish:

- They had their own toilet and did not share with the main building Overall rating: 5/5

Dinamico Restaurant | Sky Gardens Tower, DIFC, Dubai UAE | 04 514 9899| info@dinamicorestaurant.ae| www. dinamicorestaurant.ae

ILLUSTRADO NOM NOMS > Because we. Love. FOOD.

by > AJ Choleng Marasigan

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hoever coined the phrase “bitten off more than I could chew” must have been caught in the middle of a buffet, in the brink of over stuffing himself. However, I seriously think he hasn’t seen anything as lavish as JW Marriott’s Family Friday Brunch ! We walked in to The Market Place at half past 12, arms akimbo ready to take on the challenge.

I looked around this cozy little hub and thought to myself, well this looks fantastic!

And in the most jovial manner, we were told to “try and taste everything.” And that, we did.

The Market Place It must have been the residue of the holiday season but the place still feels like a massive Christmas lunch buffet. The cold cut section boasts of some amazing seafood appetizers. They also have a live cooking section where you can get some stir-fried noodles and vegies and some Arabic grills as well. A massive roasted Salmon awaits you in one corner and some Roasted Beef with gravy is seated right across it. They also sent over a plate full of fresh oysters. The Cavitenia in me cheered so hard as I shoved every piece of it down my happy happy tummy. But the star of the show for me was the Turkey. I’ve never had a roasted Turkey that good in Dubai. It melts in your mouth like a decadent piece of turkey flavored cotton candy. It was so good I must have started sobbing loudly.

@pishbol

Hofbrauhaus Hofbaruhaus is not your average local German pub in the middle of the desert.

The dark wooden furniture, plaid table cloth and wooden barrels laid across the pub makes you feel rather pleased about the German’s idea of FUN. For this particular lunch buffet, the main attraction is their selection of AMAZING sausages with names I couldn’t pronounce and a selection of authentic Bavarian dishes.

Bamboo Lagoon Ultimate Tropical Haven! And while you chow on your Asian food, a Polynesian band entertains you. Once you’re done picking your jaws off the floor, I suggest you head straight to the sushi bar for some fresh makis, sushis and sashimis. And once that’s done, flex those muscles and make your move to wrestle the fresh lobster, shrimps and fish. And as if that isn’t enough, there’s a tiny area on the other side where you can find Chinese food and some authentic roasted duck!

Dessert Buffet/Kids Buffet Think of any kind of dessert you’d want and they have it - from chocolate fountains to cupcakes and cheesecakes to puddings and an Arabic sweets spread.. They even have an ice cream section. The dessert buffet is enough to run this place. And since it’s a Friday Family Brunch, the kids get their own special buffet. If this isn’t your idea of an ultimate family day out, then I don’t know what is.

Yaaaasss!

- It’s the ultimate buffet experience!

- They were able to achieve the diversity of cuisines with all 3 restaurants.

- Definitely worth the price!

Ummm...

- If you’re not a buffet warrior, the challenge is not for you.

- It’s definitely overwhelming and I suggest you survey all 3 restaurants first so you can zero in on what you really want to pig out on.

Over all rating : 4 Stars!

(Only because 5 stars is for when they let me stay in the buffet for the whole day.)

Family Friday Brunch AT JW Marriott Dubai | Hamarain Centre, Abu Baker Al Siddique Road | +971 4 607 7977 / 7009 / 7588 | jwmarriottdubai.com | marriottdiningatjw. ae Buffet starts at AED 199 per person, inclusive of soft beverages

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LAW > Get right with the rules. Here’s how.

Legal advice from The People’s Lawyer, Barney Almazar,Esq.

Na-labor ban ako ng 1 year! Ano na laaang???

Under the UAE Labor Code, an employer can file a 1 year labor ban against a nonEmirati employee who leaves the company without lawful reasons prior to the end of his limited contract.

On the other hand, an employee under an unlimited contract may be subject of a labor ban if despite submitting a resignation letter, he leaves the company prior to the end of the legal notice period.

The standard legal notice period is 30 days.

Finally, an employee who has violated the terms and conditions of his employment contract may also be subject to a 1 year ban.

If you have a labor ban but are currently under the sponsorship of your spouse or father, then you can still stay in the UAE. The labor ban has does not affect the residence visa of those under their spouse or father’s visa. Laging tatandaan na iba ang labor ban sa immigration ban.

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Those who have a labor ban can still enter the UAE on a visit or tourist visa. Yun nga lang, hindi ka pwede mag-trabaho dito sa UAE except if you will work sa free zone or your new employer is the government or a semi-government company.

Kung na-labor ban ka for 1 year at hindi naman sa free zone ang next work mo, hindi naman government or semigovernment ang next employer mo at hindi ka naman under a spouse of father’s visa, mas mainam na umalis ka na lang muna sa UAE at bumalik na lang ulet kapag natapos na ang iyong 1 year labor ban.

Kinasuhan ako ng dati kong kumpanya ng absconding, eh natapos ko naman ang notice period. Ano na laaang???

The filing of an absconding case, may be resorted to by an employer if the employee commits the following acts during the period of his employment: • Did not report to work for at least 7 consecutive days and the employer does not have any information about his wheareabouts; and

• Employee failed to provide his employer a written resignation letter before leaving the company Upon completion of the notice period and the termination of the employment contract, the employer can still file an absconding case against you if you do not exit the UAE within 30 days upon the cancellation of your visa. Halimbawa, if the employer cancelled your visa on April 1, you have until April 30 to exit the UAE. Kung hindi ka pa rin nag-eexit by that time, pwede kang kasuhan ng absconding. This is what happened in your case.

Dahil na-file na yung kaso, the first thing that you should do is to contact your employer. Try to settle the matter amicably and ask if they can withdraw the absconding case.

Kung ayaw i-withdraw ng employer yung kaso then you can file your grievance against your employer with the Ministry of Labor. Pero kung ikaw ang nagkamali it is better to surrender yourself sa immigration to proceed with the trial.

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

g n i m o c e “Hom Queen” “Kay tagal mo nang nawala, babalik ka rin…babalik ka rin…………”

This has been my kas LSS (Last Song Syndrome) ever since I boarded my Emirates Airlines Dubai-Manila nonstop flight. The whole airplane, coming from Kuwait and Riyadh, was filled with kababayan, most goons-lookalikes all clad in the official OFW travelling outfit – maong jacket, oversized jerseys, Nike basketball rubbershoes, plus accessorized in bull caps and lots, as in lots a bling-blings!!! From head to toe, talbog amg Christmas Tree sa kumukutikutitap na kabayan: hikaw, pati sa ngipin may kumikinang!

Anyway, feeling nasa Cowboy Grill ako during the flight kasi nakakaliw ang mga kwento ng mga kabayan. While non-stop din ang toma naming, may mga kumakanta pa at nag-papatawa. I missed my beauty rest dahil sa kakachika with a lot of kababayans – but ok lang – for some of their stories really touched my hearts.

I fell asleep for about thirty minutes when I was awakened by this loud noise – nagpapalakpakan ang mga kabayan, ang entire pasahero crowd. “Huh, bakeet? Ano nangyayari?” I asked Chona, my parloric seatmate, while wiping the saliva off my mouth. “Naglanding na tayo. Ay sister, nasa Manila na tayooooo!!!”, Chona blurted out. OhMygas! Paano na ang balikbayan

look ko? Hay naku, habang naguunahan at nagtutulakan ang mga kabayan palabas ng eroplano eh may – I retouch ako ng fez at spray ng body mist. Tadaaaan!!! “I am Annie B. and I am balikbayan” na ang drama ko.

A quick glimpse of Metro Manila from the airport to the North Luzon Expressway made me realize na wala masyadong nabago: grabe pa rin ang trapik sa atin!

Na-miss ko yung mga pulubi at mga nangangaroling na mga batang yagit sa kalsada, though, Wala sa Dubai noon eh.

Two hour and half hours later, I arrived at our humble abowde in Bagumbayan, Orion, Bataan. Haay, ang sarap ng feeling of being home again. P Five days later, after experiencing my mother’s award-winning cooking, I gained 5 pounds, my gas! Paano na ang mga outfits ko? But as the days went by, I found myself not resisting our Batobalani style morcon, menudo, bistek, apritada, patatim, pinakbet, sinigang, etc. isama mo pa ang halo-halo at gulaman at sago sa tindahan ni Merlee and the bibingka and puto bungbong in the plaza during Simbang Gabi – on Christmas Day I looksalike Santa Claus already. All of a suddenly, I resorted to Ouchkin’s Diet – wala muang carbs – para naman hind ako lumobo at pagmalaking bida sa sa Hairspray the movie ng mga classmeyts and ex –

ofismeyts ko.

During New Year’s Eve, I attended a party in our plaza. This is the place to see and be seen here in our town. Of course, I’ve been planning my outfit for this night since I arrived. This will be my revenge to all those inggitera kapitbahays and my exboyfriends and crushes – tumulo sana ang mga laway nyo kapag nakita nyo ako!

I distributed party flavors that I got from my company’s party some months back – kaya sikat na naman ako miski sa mga bagets at mga thundecats sa party! “Tipirin yo yan …mahal yan….galing pa ng Dubai yan…” I reminded them. As expected, a bunch of pasaways got over excited with my party flavors, ayun, nagkagulo at nagagawan, lekat, pati tuloy ako naputukan sa mukha ng sili strings!!!!!

Ang sarap ng feeling! The simple moments were the ones I truly cherished. The shopping spree and gimmicks and parties were nothing compared to the time I spent with my family and loved ones. The small but memorable things that I will bring back with me when my vacation is over. The laughter, the bonding, the non-stop chismis and kwentuhans with my family and friends. The food….the trees….fresh air… these are the things what will truly miss.

Wala sa Dubai nito.

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ADVERTORIAL

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With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Liali has launched their special collection just in time for the romantic season ahead to celebrate the spirit of love and togetherness.The exclusive collection boasts of pendants, bangles, bracelets and rings; to suit various style statements and budgets.

Unlock her heart and emotions with Liali’s signature ‘key to her heart’pendant that is priced at only AED 1600 or choose from the classic key pendants available in white, yellow and rose gold. Add a sparkle on her hands with the gorgeous love bands or

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the 18K white gold Mirage Taper band that promises everlasting love and compatibility.

The stunning Tessitore bangles collection will truly sweep her off her feet! The perfect choice to make her say “yes” to your proposal is Liali’s three piece Nouf collection that includes an Amethyst ring, earrings and a beautiful pendant. Ideal for the Valentine’s date night is Liali’s charming bracelet that exudes glamour and sophistication!The classic elegance and timeless beauty of the Ruby and Diamond ring and bangle collection are sure to astound your lady love and make her fall in love with you again!

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