ILLUSTRADO GO> ISSUE 3 > 15-05-16

ISSUE 03

22•05•16

THE PINOY

TRA VEL LER

Are you a travelling pasaway?

How to not be an annoying tourist

Work That Pinoy Passport!

Visa-free Travel Destinations

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

The Rise of the

Enraged Electorate

Can’t Buy Me Love

Of Money and Marriage

#PinoyMeetsWorld

EDITOR’S NOTE/ CONTENTS

ISSUE 03

2 2 n d • M AY • 2 0 1 6

#pinoymeetsworld Wanderlust beckons! It’s that time of the year when a lot of us get restless with the rising temperature; when you picture yourself lounging by the beach your bare feet on cool sand, or hiking in the mountains and feeling the brisk fresh air, or immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of a new city. Let us help you pick your next destination. Visa free?

Even better! Tara!

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LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Editor-in-Chief

PINOY-PROGRESSIVE

VISA FREE: TRAVEL WITH JUST YOUR PHILIPPINE PASSPORT >6 FILIPINOS: THE TRAVELLING PASAWAY >12 USAPANG ILLUSTRADO: TRAVEL ETIQUETTE >14 MY PINOY LIFE IN NEW YORK MIKKO LAZARO >18 IT’S WHAT I DO >22 ILLUMINATI: TRIUMPH OF THE GRIEVANCE VOTE >42 KEEPING UP WITH THE CON GEN: #MOVEONPILIPINAS >43 MONEY: MARRIAGE INC. >44 LAW: MAKING THE LABOR LAW WORK FOR YOU >46

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ILLUSTRADO SCRAPBOOK >24 ILLUSTRADO CALENDAR >26 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: PATRICIA ZYRINN DE GUZMAN VILLANUEVA >38 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: CHOLO JUAN >40 ENTERTAINMENT >52

BEAUTY & FASHION

AVEL BACUDIO >28 HIYANG! GANDANG PINAY >34 WEARING IT WELL: KEVIN MURPHY> 35 REAL STYLE, REAL PEOPLE >36

JUST BECAUSE

PRACTICING MISIS: CHICKEN CORIANDER SOUP >48 ILLUSTRADO STUFF >49 RIGHT NOW, PHILIPPINES >50 ANNIE B. CHRONICLES: WORKING GIRL>51 ONLI IN DA PILIPINS: ANGINEEEET! 20 SIGNS OF SUMMER >53 BLOG: THE VALUE OF LOOKING BACK 54

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Contributors

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

BARNEY ALMAZAR, ESQ.

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

KRIP YUSON Krip Yuson will soon have his third novel published, titled “The Music Child & the Mahjong Queen,” a follow-up on his seventh collection of poetry, “Islands of Words & Other Poems.” This Palanca Hall of Famer talks about how a grievance vote catapulted the man nicknamed “The Punisher” to the top of this year’s Philippine Presidential Elections.

NICHOLO JALLORES

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

He wants to make it clear that THAT sentence isn’t nearly as forlorn as it sounds. Nicholo rants about the “travelling pasaways” in this Illustrado GO edition.

KENNETH SURAT ABY YAP

What makes the Pinoy tick?

Aby Yap’s long-running column “Onli in Da Pilipins” often answers that question.

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

Is part of the growing tribe of global nomads who just seem to live anywhere and everywhere in the world. After almost a decade in Dubai, this travel blogger has decided to pack up and embark on his biggest adventure yet - letting life take him where it may.

Along with his friends in the blogosphere, Kenneth takes us on a trip to some countries that we Filipinos can actually make a spontaneous visa-free trip to.

ROSAN KATLEA REODICA

ANNA DE LEON

Life devoid of makeup and fashion is life lived in mediocrity – a sentence that Anna has lived by since she discovered her 1st Vogue magazine at the age of 9.

Empowering women through beauty has always been her passion and she believes that women can rule the world in their stilettos, red lips and razor sharp intelligence.

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 to cook adobo, she has now learned to make her own pesto, guacamole and her own flavored taho.

She now has a book, but still doesn’t have her own kitchen.

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.

KRISTINE ABANTE

(Quoting Albert Einstein) Kristine Abante says of herself, “I have no special talent, I am only passionately curious.” An entertainment industry expert, who spends her downtime looking for the next great adventure wherever she could find it, Kristine uses her writing to relive her experiences twice and to encourage others to join the ride.

EXCEL V. DYQUIANGCO

Our “Mr. Right Now, Philippines” writes and edits for a coffee table books publishing company. Since his boss is the biographer of Fidel V. Ramos, he sometimes mingles with top tier politicians. At one time, FVR even asked him to do push-ups (and we don’t know how that went!). Excel is also the author of the immensely popular children’s books “I Don’t Like to Eat” and “Lala Burara” (Messy Lala).

From The Publishers of Illustrado Magazine

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

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FEATURE >

Visa Free: Travel with Just Your Philippine Passport By>

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Kenneth Ephraim Surath

Do you have a serious case of wanderlust but the thought of going through a lot of documentation and the high probability of having to skip a day from work is adding stress to your travel planning?

Having a Philippine Passport is somewhat a challenge when it comes to traveling around the world. The usual need for a visa is enough to dampen your enthusiasm to fly. Still, there are many countries where Filipinos like us can go visa free or secure visa upon arrival and blogs are a good source for such information.

To help you choose your next insta-travel destination, here are 10 visa-free or visa upon arrival countries you can consider for your dream spontaneous trip.

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FEATURE >

SRI LANKA

Visa on arrival. Validity: 30 days Visa on arrival but highly recommended to get an E-Visa Authorization before traveling to skip the typical queue.

If you miss being surrounded by nature, Sri Lanka is an easy getaway for you. Feast your eyes on green my surroundings. If you are heading to Sri Lanka, try to get out of Colombo and visit Kandy, one of its major cities in its central provinces. Here, you can experience its culture by watching traditional dances, visit temples and even watch the elephant bathe along the river 1

KYRGYZSTAN

Visa on arrival. Validity: 30 days If you find yourself booking a trip here, which will definitely surprise a lot of your friends, go around and observe how people live in a post-communist country. A local friend here once said, “If you see us not smiling with our faces, we are smiling in our hearts.” You’ll be amazed that you cannot find any McDonalds or Starbucks, not just in the city, but the whole country. Go to a local restaurant and try their specialty laghman noodles and kumiz.

Tucked in the middle of Central Asia, Kyrgystan is a country composed of mountain ranges. You can take a quick trip away from the city and go mountain climbing or, you may simply admire the beauty of snowcapped peaks from a far. Due to the country’s nomadic heritage, you can still see yurts around the plains in some parts of the country and if you’re there at the right season, you can even sleep in one of these yurts.

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FEATURE >

THAILAND

Visa free. Duration: 30 days Thailand has long been a famous destination for almost every Filipino, because of its easy distance from the Philippines. You can also take stopovers on your Dubai to Manila trips.

Considered as the backpacking capital of the South East Asia, it is not surprising that almost everything there is cheap whether it’s food, accommodation, nightlife, etc. Just a short drive away from Bangkok, you’ll find the most beautiful beaches in the world. If you are brave enough, try getting a bag full of friendly insects along Khao San Road.

For the places I have yet to visit, some of my friends who have also been bitten by the travel bug have pitched in. Here are their recommendations 3

GEORGIA

Visa on arrival (free for UAE residents). Visa Validity: 90 days “What I like most in Georgia are its people.

They are one of the most hospitable people I’ve ever met. I really enjoyed the sceneries there specially Kazbegi region where Gudauri Ski Resort is located. It is picture perfect in every angle.”

– Joy Caasi (@iamjhoysi) 4

MOROCCO

Visa free. Duration: 90 days “In Morocco, it’s like I’m like living my Pantone dream. I also love their architecture.

Marrakech is painted with pink while Essaoura is with white and blue. You can see colors everywhere - from pastel doors to colorful floor tiles. I also like how their culture is so rich.”

– Hannah Magsayo (@hannahmagsayo)

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FEATURE >

VIETNAM

Visa free. Duration: 21 days “Rather than to go to Saigon or Hanoi, I went to the old town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. I loved seeing the wellpreserved streets and structures of this 15th century trading port! Apart from the gorgeous streetscapes, here is where I had the most delicious banh-mi I have ever tasted! Anthony Bourdain recommended.”

- Nikki Dela Paz (@nikkidelapaz)

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INDIA

E-Tourist visa. Visa Duration: 30 days, “We visited India to do the famous Golden Triangle Tour. Our tour kicked off in Delhi, the bustling capital of India. Then, we went to Jaipur, known as the Pink City. Saving the best for last, our third destination was Agra, home of the world-famous Taj Mahal. India is indeed incredible and we have just seen only parts of it.”

– Lady Abit (@ladyandhersweetescapes) 7

PERU

Visa free. Duration: 183 days “Peru is magical and enchanting! Cusco and Lima drew me to read and learn a bit about Peruvian history and culture. It does make a difference to read and know about Machu Picchu and the Incas. Otherwise, it’d simply look like another famous tourist spot to serve as backdrop for selfies and social network profile pics.”

– Gelo Santos (@iamdocgelo) 8

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FEATURE >

BRAZIL

Visa free. Duration: 90 days “I love the laid back atmosphere in Rio de Janeiro, the fusion of old and new in Sao Paulo, and the breathtaking view of Iguazu Falls in Iguaçu. Brasil is certainly not a once in a lifetime experience as one will surely be enticed to revisit someday.”

- Gelo Santos (@iamdocgelo) 9

ARMENIA

Visa on arrival. Visa Validity: 3-21 days “Armenia is very cheap and affordable! Everyday we dined at fine dining restaurants for 4 days and 3 nights. I only spent AED750 for food and tours.

Aside from that, people are really friendly. Places to visit are Lake Sevan, Garni, Geghard, Tsaghzador and the capital, Yerevan” – Debbie Fortes (@debbiefortes) 10

Aside from these 10, we Filipinos have at least 50 more countries which we can visit. It means 60+ reasons for us to book a flight and pack our bags.

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FEATURE >

Filipinos:

The Tr a v e l l i n g Pa s a w ay By> Nicholo Jallores (Written during his travels in Georgia)

D

I am happy when Filipinos venture out into the world and see and experience new things. I am ecstatic when my fellowmen are able to take leisurely holidays outside the confines of our archipelago, pero utang na loob mga kabayan, HUWAG PASAWAY! When I visited the Jvari Monastery in Georgia, I had to tell off a group of Filipinos for taking photographs inside the church – something that is clearly prohibited by the religious order. Not only were these kababayans taking photos, they were taking selfies against the relics, with flash.

Ok, first of all, who on earth takes selfies with flash nowadays? Madilim nga naman daw kasi sa church kaya kailangan ng ilaw. And secondly, kailangan ba talagang magpasaway? Thing is, any kind of photography inside churches in Georgia is strictly and expressly forbidden, unless stated otherwise by the parish authority.

You can actually ask for permission - but if you don’t have it, don’t try to get away with breaking the hard and fast rules because that is just darn disrespectful! How inappropriate is this: people are lighting candles and praying inside the church and you and your friends are giggling and taking selfies? It’s infuriating! Enjoy the famous Georgian hospitality while it lasts,

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mga jologs. Kakaganyan nyo mabababadshot tayo doon.

In summary, here are a few tips on How To Be A Mindful Filipino Traveller

This is not the only instance where I observed such utter mindlessness and disrespect from my fellow kababayan tourists. On my day trips to Vardzia and Gudauri, I joined a tour group of mixed nationalities. Guess who were the most pasaway. Yep. The Pinoys were noisy, obnoxious, overly familiar, and always late for the designated times. They even had the nerve to heckle the tour guide and make fun of her struggling English. Oh man, I wanted to just jump off the cliff! I wanted to adopt a British accent and pass myself off as Korean raised in London. Nakakahiya!

Learn the basic social graces in the local language - or at least enough to order a cheeseburger, or ask for directions. Do not make fun of people’s English inadequacy, or act as if they are stupid for being unable to converse with you. The locals do not owe it to you to learn English. Ikaw ang bisita, puwes ikaw ang mag-adjust.

I am not saying that all Filipino travellers are undisciplined morons, such as those that I’ve had the grand misfortune of touring with. I for one am not an undisciplined moron, and I am certain that I do not have the monopoly of common travelling decency. We all travel for different reasons, but please: don’t travel with the assumption that your reasons take precedence over everyone else’s.

Our host country owes us nothing. We are guests - and so we must conduct ourselves graciously, in a manner that respects our hosts and does not bring shame to our national identity. In short, huwag pasaway!

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Be nice, polite, and amiable, but do not be overly familiar.

Huwag feeling close, dahil hindi mo alam kung ano ang kinalakihan ng kausap mo. Hindi ka sure kung uubra ang pagiging kolokoy mo. Baka ma-waley ka lang, or worse, maka-offend ka. In our tour group, the Filipinos kept trying to joke around with the Russians, and the Russians just weren’t having it! Ang awkward! One: the language barrier makes it difficult to pull off any sort of comedic timing. And two: it may very well be that they just aren’t used to your brand of humor. That’s not their fault. Ikaw ang huwag umepal. Sino ka, si Dolphy?

Hindi mo trabaho ang bumangka.

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Be on time. For everything. Do not make time for Filipino time. Do not take on a VIP mentality. Hindi ka hari o reyna, uy!

FEATURE >

Whatever site you are visiting, know and observe the rules. Do not even think about breaking the rules, because that will just show your lack of discipline and may land you in serious trouble. If the establishment policies aren’t written anywhere, or is in a language that you do not understand, ask. When in doubt, defer to your sense of common decency.

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It’s a great big world out there.

Breathe it in deeply. Look at it.

Absorb it. Let it change you.

Figuratively (and literally) take yourself out of the picture and just appreciate a world that formed itself without your guidance, and will remain standing long after you are gone. Live in the wild, concentrated awesomeness of the moment, even for a short while.

When you go back home, you are going to have to just live with yourself again - and when you look at your camera, all you have are, what, SELFIES? That moment will pass you by, quick as lightning.

Stay still, and grab hold onto as much of it as you can. That’s what you take home with you.

Respect the local traditions, especially where religion is concerned. In Georgia, you generally cannot take pictures inside the church.

Honor this like the Golden Rule. If you cannot help yourself, ask for permission.

I did this in one of the churches in Tbilisi, and they allowed me one shot - and so I took one shot, and one shot only. Georgians take their belief system very seriously, near to a point that Filipinos might find absurd.

Kung OA sa iyo, sa kanila, buhay nila yan.

Makibagay ka. Try mo magpasaway sa loob ng mosque sa Saudi, tingnan natin kung saan ka pupulutin.

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By all means take your selfies, but do not just take selfies. This is not a matter of respectful conduct as it is a positive restructuring of your mindset as a traveller.

If your primary objective for travelling is to find backdrops for your selfies, then child, you are wasting your time and money.

Nafo-photoshop naman yan. I-refer na lang kita sa graphic artist, nakatipid ka pa.

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USAPANG

ILLUSTRADO >

Say no to usapang barbero. Dapat, Illustrado!

Seasoned Filipino travellers share basic tips for global Pinoys – the must do’s and don’ts to consider when we visit other countries.

Clean up your mess. A little respect to our host country goes a long way.

CLEENE ARCILLA Flight Attendant

Living in Dubai and working as a Flight Attendant, made it possible for me to see the world. I have been to 6 continents apart from Antartica. Traveling broadens our horizons and also makes the world one big playground.But there are some things we need to ponder when travelling.

Trust, listen and follow the tour guide. Back in 2006 i went with my Ninang Nita to the Promise Land. We were staying in Bethlehem and we were told specifically not to go out when the bus drops us off after the tour. I was with 4 pinays at that time. We went still went out against advice, and lo and behold, some shooting happened just 5 minutes away from where we are. So please, don’t be “pasaway.” Following instructions can save your life.

Always plan your wardrobe. During a trip you are always on the go and travelling light keeps you from getting tired from lugging your bag around. Knowing exactly what to wear saves preparation time. It also saves baggage space, so you have more room for shopping.

Read and know more about the places. Know the culture and the dress codes before you travel. It saves us the trouble of getting reprimanded and asked to leave, in case we act or are dress inappropriately.

Fresh produce is always the best.

Bring “baon” only if you have specific or strict dietary requirements. Book your hotels in a good location, even better if there is a fresh produce market. Grab some local fruits and then pass by a deli to get a sandwich or salad to bring with you while on tour. It’s cheap and convenient, saves baggage space and makes you feel like a local.

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MARIANNE SILLORIQUEZ Brand Manager

In all my travels, it is refreshing to meet fellow Filipinos. It gives one a sense of pride realizing how, we too, as a race are well-travelled and exposed to the rest of the world. Sometimes, however, we tend to be over excited or over eager that we act inappropriately. When travelling, being mindful as well as exercising respect and consideration of the country we are visiting are very important.

“When in Rome do as the Romans do.” There’s is a very thin line between dressing appropriately and flaunting. It’s ok to dress well, but please be mindful of the customs of the place you are visiting.

Be a responsible tourist and do your research, learn about the basic norms and adapt accordingly.

Observe and follow the rules. Being ready for security checking procedures.

Be aware of airport security verification.

Avoid wearing complicated footwear and belts that you will have to remove. Make sure your bag does not have prohibited gadgets, excessive cosmetics / toiletries, even food, etc. Don’t be the cause of delay, so be ready with your travel documents and clothing.

Be respectful and considerate of others. Filipinos can be very noisy. We are a naturally happy bunch and love to enjoy every moment. Nothing wrong with this, but let’s have fun with a touch of finesse!

This means keeping your voice at a reasonable volumes and actions/reactions in check.

Respect personal space and wait for your turn. Know when and where to move, stop, stand, walk. Wait for your turn when boarding, allow for people to pass with ample space for them to walk through. Walk on the left, stand on the right. In the plane / bus where you are standing in the aisle, make sure the people in the row in front of you have a chance to exit before you start walking forward.

When you’re entering an elevator or a train or a metro, don’t stand directly in front of the doors when they open. Stand to the side, and let the people inside exit first. In moving ramps or stairs, the right side is meant for stationary travelers, keeps the left side free moving.

Know these basic rules and enjoy your travels!

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MY PINOY LIFE IN > Living the dream, loving the world, learning new things everyday

My PINOY LIFE in

New York is a place for global nomads like me. You eat your own food, you speak your own language, you say whatever you want to say, and you can choose to explore other cultures as you wish.

By> Mikko Lazaro

I

I’ve always been an avid traveler, and one of the cities that I have visited which became my favorite is New York. In fact I used to visit New York about three times a year since 2010. In December 2014, I decided to stay permanently in the Big Apple to re-focus my career in healthcare.

I lived in Dubai working in the insurance industry, prior to moving to New York.

Working in insurance was something I stumbled into when I took my chance overseas. After seven years in that industry though, I felt I needed to go back to

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practicing my profession in healthcare, and the USA provided me with a great opportunity for growth and development.

I am an independent contractor working in physical therapy. As my patients say, I “make people walk.”

My City

There is a lot to say about New York, but I’ll try my best to describe the easiest way I can. The Big Apple, as many know it, is the most populous city in the United States.

Like Dubai, it is a fast-paced, globally influential center of art, culture, fashion and finance. Some 800 languages are spoken in

New York, spread out across five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens and Staten Island.

Bronx is what I call “home.” The multicultural flavors of New York are heightened in Bronx where various cultures and people live harmoniously. Communities of Latinos, Africans, Asians, and Europeans are within tasting, hearing, and seeing distance from my second floor apartment.

I love the fact that within the two-block radius from my apartment there is a public library, a hospital, eateries, mini-marts, and street vendors selling various sundry.

MY PINOY LIFE IN > Living the dream, loving the world, learning new things everyday

I’m far enough from the hustle and bustle of the main road, but close enough to hear gospel songs sung in Spanish as a ‘culto’ (religious congregation) sing worship right across from my apartment.

Within a bus ride away, I can visit one of the large open spaces of parkland in New York — Pelham Bay Park, Van Cortlandt Park, Wave Hill (my favorite because it overlooks the New Jersey Palisades), Bronx Park (the home of the New York Botanical Gardens and the Bronx Zoo, the largest urban zoo in the US), Edgar Allan Poe Park, and the Yankee Stadium.

In a way, where I’ve settled isn’t too different from Dubai. However it offers me more diversity in open spaces, nature and cultural exploration.

My Life

My life here is pretty laid-back because I choose it to be that way. At my age, after work, I prefer to just go home; take a nap; check my Facebook; read books; chat with my housemate, Ms. Elaine, over dinner; then talk to family in Dubai, Maryland, and Isabela; then to bed.

I choose to work 7 days a week so I wouldn’t easily get bored whenever I am home. Although, I don’t believe in what a lot of people say that illustrado go>19

MY PINOY LIFE IN >

- “Dito sa America, dapat trabaho ka ng trabaho; wala ka na time mag relax.”

I’m working hard by choice, but I also play hard and generally enjoy life. After work, if I don’t feel tired or lazy, I usually go to dinner with friends or co-workers and taste what new flavors New York has to offer. When I take vacations, I explore American cities and states with my spouse. This past year alone, I’ve visited New Orleans, Boston, Cape Cod, Washington, DC, Baltimore and Tampa.

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Missing my family is the hardest part about being here in New York. But thanks to technology, I’m able to keep in touch with family members who are spread all over the globe. If I miss them and when I feel lonely, I just go to the museums and spend time there. Nothing beats loneliness than a good trip to the museum and learning something new — and New York gives you plenty of those opportunities.

It also helps that I’ve made friends with the Mexican laundromat attendant, Vietnamese neighborhood grocery owner, Korean vegetable and fish vendor, Egyptian deli

MY PINOY LIFE IN > Living the dream, loving the world, learning new things everyday

store keeper, barber from the Dominican Republic, Greek diner owner and attendants.

Right next door is a community library led by a charming Latina lady who keeps me grounded with stories of her colorful life. She also updates me whenever there are new movies available that I can borrow — for free, mind you.

Being a Global Nomad

I consider myself a global nomad, having travelled all over the world and explored cultures. New York is a place for global nomads like me, and I would imagine it would be a great environment for a lot of Illustrado readers. You eat your own food, you speak your own language, you say whatever you want to say, and you can choose to explore other cultures as you wish.

What I particularly love about New York though is the seemingly endless opportunities it can provide if you choose to pursue them. I’ve done more walking here than I did when I was Dubai, making me lose weight as I only use the bus and subway train wherever I go. I am more independent here as I do my laundry at the laundromat just two blocks away; I also do my own groceries, cook my own food and clean my own room.

New York City is extra special for me for its endless activities, unique styles and personalities, awesome hidden gems, the mix of city life and much quieter neighborhood and being generally eclectic. I feel that most New Yorkers are very open-minded and accepting of others. I guess that is what happens when you have over 800 tongues spoken in your city.

Hello, kababayans!

Mabuhay! Ako ay Pilipino; taas noo kahit kanino. But with our Pinoy pride, let’s also not forget that quiet confidence also goes a long way.

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Filipino Progress & Diversity

My job

I am the Marketing Communications Coordinator of one of the brands carried

by Abu Dhabi Duty Free. It is my 7th year in the UAE and it has been a slow yet sure journey towards a career where I know I can excel in. I am in charge of everything creative for our brand - copywriting, graphic design, photography, videography, social media and budget management for our department – almost everything I love to do, all rolled into one job!

My work day

CHER PAULINE CRUZ Marketing Communications Coordinator-Abu Dhabi Duty Free Abu Dhabi, UAE

In my job, every single working day offers a new skill to be learned, new knowledge to enhance and discoveries to enrich the whole experience. You’ll never know what the new day will bring, thus, it makes the work more exciting and inspiring. I get to interact with different kinds of people and learn from them. I coordinate with media people, suppliers, customers, and with the different departments in our company.

I get to do things that I only usually do

My job

ARCH. GLENN D. MAAMBONG Architect Deyaar Development PSJC – Dubai, UAE

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I am an architect for a public joint stock company (Deyaar Development PSJC).

Working as an architect for a developer is, in some ways, different to the job of an architect in a consultant company. The latter’s job starts when they receive a job to design for a specific project, while for us, we have to develop a concept and study feasibility for specific projects. In short, we design from ideas, and those become the foundation from where the consultants elaborate.

My work day

My day is always very interesting and challenging. I get to design and propose ideas and concepts. For example, at one

At The Work Place >

for leisure and every day brings new challenges to overcome.

Career advice

With the right attitude, we will get that job that we want. Skills can always be developed, but our attitude will always lead us to the right path to success. Instead of looking at a setback as negative, try to make the most out of it and learn from it. Also, being a Filipino abroad, we must not forget about our responsibility to our country. Whatever we do outside, will reflect on others’ perception on Filipinos. Therefore, we must always be conscientious, we must strive hard to uplift our nation and we must fulfill our social and moral responsibility as a Filipino.

time, I was tasked to develop and propose a concept for a hotel apartment. So, I draw CAD elevation and perspective sketches, model my concept in Revit or 3Dmax from high-rise residential buildings, to the type of units and unit layouts. I then present it to the design manager and receive feedback for revisions. Typically, most of my day is spent in front of my computer rendering my concept.

Career advice

My message to my kababayans working here in Dubai or in the MENA region is to keep working hard with a good attitude, warmth, respect, decency, faith in God and always keeping our sense of fun. This is our source of pride as Filipinos. Taas noo!

SCRAPBOOK >

GERICO CANLAPAN Riyadh, Saudi Arabia http://jerishoots.com

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SCRAPBOOK >

ROBERT CASTRO DUBAI - UAE

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What to do yani? K. Here.

ILLUSTRADO CALENDAR

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Here are our list of things to do, places to go, and events to attend…

2016

M AY

Rock with Armin Van Buuren 20th of May

Merry month of tango 18th to the 21st of May

The Dubai Tango Festival returns on its 8th edition with a fascinating program including workshops and gala dinner. The 3-day dance spectacular will be held at the Meydan Hotel. Book tickets at AED 350 each. Photo credit: www.dubaicalendar.ae

‘The’ Armin Van Buuren will showcase the skills that cemented him at the very pinnacle of the DJ-ing world in a live concert in Dubai. A part of his ‘Armin Only Embrace’ world tour, the one-night only clubbing extravaganza is taking place on the at the Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse in Nad Al Sheba. Tickets are priced from AED 299 to AED 650.

Photo credit: www.meydanhotels.com

Learn from the masters 26th and 27th of May

Watch how the top eight dart players in the world compete for the coveted title of the annual Dubai Duty Free Dart Masters.

The exciting sporting event will be held at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in Garhoud. Tickets are from AED 199 to AED 250. Season passes are also in offer. www. dubai-darts.com

Support squash 24th to the 28th of May The biggest bubbles 19th to the 21st of May

With laser acts and 3D stunts, the incredible bubble show promises a oneof-a-kind entertainment that will definitely change the way you look at bubbles.

Happening for the first time in the city, this family spectacle is to stage at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Tickets to this incredible live entertainment range from AED 149 to AED 1999.

Photo credit: www.dzooom.com

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After kicking off the season in October 2015 and going on a tour in seven locations around the world, the Professional Squash Association (PSA) World Series will have their last pit stop in Dubai. Catch the finals of the international squash season from the in a state-of-theart squash court and innovative spectator venue to be constructed in Burj Park, Downtown Dubai.

Photo credit: psaworldtour.com

Winter in summer Tuesdays, Thursdays to Saturdays

Skate with snowman, and delight in the sparkling magic of snowflakes all year round at the Dubai Ice Rink at The Dubai Mall. Summer becomes winter on Tuesdays, and from Thursdays to Saturdays for an entry price of AED 100 per person. Timings may vary so it’s better to check for the exact time of the snowfall before booking your visit.

Photo Credit: www.sportsaddlebreds.com

What to do yani? K. Here.

ILLUSTRADO CALENDAR

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2016

M AY Visit the Big Brands sale 31st of May till the 4th of June

Money in the trash 21st May Opera mania 26th of May

Before the official opening of the Dubai Opera, a mesmerizing spectacle is set to enchant at the Italian Opera Gala Dubai at DUCTAC in Mall of the Emirates.

Distinguished musicians are performing for one night only. Photo credit: www. dubaicalendar.ae

Thinking of spring cleaning this season?

The best time to box your unused items and flog them to the flea market at the Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort where a quarterly charity bazaar is held. Funds collected from this market will support children in need.

You can sell unwanted items from home such as clothing, electronics, books, DVDs and toys, while bargain hunters can stroll through the market to look for the best opportunities. Photo credit: ahlanlive.com

If bagging the biggest brands of shoes, handbags, perfumes, sunglasses, apparels and cosmetics at bargain prices is your thing, then you’d be happy to know that the Concept Big Brands Carnival Event – known as CBBC – is back at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This is a free-admission event.

Photo credit: dubaicalendar.ae

Run in the desert 4th of June

Movie under the stars Tuesday evenings until the 31st of May Go to the Ripe Market

Since the 19th of February this year, the Ripe Food and Craft Market is open every Friday morning, from 10am – 3pm at The Collection, St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi. Now, the capital settlers can purchase on seasonal, organic produce all handpicked from local farms, stock up on pantry essentials like coconut oil, superfoods, honey or eggs, and stroll through the stalls of some of the city’s best foodies and artisans. Photo credit: ripeme.com

Take a throwback at your favorite classic movies at Yas Marina. The biggest hits from the last 30 years will be shown at a laidback cultural evening that offers free entrance. Outdoor movie starts at 7.30pm.

The renowned sport event Dubai Desert Road Run comes back at The Sevens Stadium to gather runners of 14 years old and above for the 10km race, a 3km junior race for ages 6 to 18, and an untimed 3km fun run.Trophies will be awarded to the first three men and women in all age categories for the 10k run. Photo credit: visitdubai.com

Photo credit: yasmarina.ae

Bond in camp Until the 31st of May

Before the summer gets on full throttle, experience the little dune-based camping in the desert. Arabian Nights Village, the heritage-inspired destinationat the heart of Abu Dhabi’s Al Khatim desert, is offering special packages for enthusiastic campers at AED 1,500 per night (two sharing).

Photo credit: arabiannights.ae

Treat your tots 17th to the 18th of May

The “Tiger Who Came To Tea,” a play adapted from the well-known children’s books by Judith Kerr, is going to be brought to life on the special two-night performances at the Madinat Theatre in MadinatJumeirah. Tickets are offered starting at AED 135.

Photo credit: artforall.ae

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FASHION

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FASHION

COLOR FA S H I O N B Y >

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FASHION

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FASHION

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FASHION

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FASHION

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BEAUTY

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Kagandahan 101

Hiyang! Top 5 Pinoy Beauty Products By> Anna De Leon

Pia Wurztbach bagging the Ms. Universe crown makes one wonder as to what makes the Filipina stand out among a bevy of beauties from around the world. The answer may lie along the aisles of our groceries back home, and now even here abroad, in the beauty products that have taken care of our beauty queens, our mothers and even us growing up.

Before the likes of Likas or Hortaleza beauty products dominated the shelves, these were the legends! Here are our top picks of legendary Filipino products that will help you elevate your own beauty to a “confidently beautiful with a heart” status.

1. Eskinol - If it has worked for Ate Vi after all these years, it will work for you. I have tried all the toners in the world, but Eskinol beats them all and I mean ALL! No toner in the world can remove dirt that is in the deep recesses of your soul, more than this one! And if you are looking for armpits, singit, siko, batok, tuhod and alak-alakan that is worthy of extreme close up, then stock up on bottles! There is no nook and cranny of your body that Eskinol can’t reach! Deep seated dirt and dead skin, better hide!

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2. Papaya Soaps a plenty - being a tropical country, papaya is everywhere but that is not the only reason why we love papaya! We love it because of its whitening properties. The Philippines could easily have the most number of papaya soap variants in the world.

3. Tawas - to say that we are obsessed with smells would be an understatement.

We Filipinos have a unique way of branding smells like, “amoy araw”,”parang damit na hindi natuyo ng maayos” and the list goes on. It’s no wonder that we use nature’s gift to eliminate smells that will make us dig into our smell dictionary to term.

4. Calamansi – It’s unclear how Filipinos became obsessed with showing off white armpit. Having white armpits has

become a status symbol and what better way to make that happen than turning to another one of nature’s gifts, the calamansi.

5. The Hilod - Before the loofah, the shower mitts, there was the hilod! This pumice stone will remove all your dead skin like it is nobody’s business! Use with caution because it can skin you alive and you might end up looking like Deadpool!

So, there you have it. How many of these Gandang Pinoy items have you used? Did it work? Are you still using it? Tell us all about it!

WEARING IT WELL

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Photos > Cris Beedong

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

Kevin Espinosa Murphy PERFORMER

What role does fashion play in your daily life?

Being a performer, fashion definitely plays an important role in my daily life. People tend to expect performers or artists to set trends and continuously adopt new looks.

So, I usually look at magazines or on the internet just to check out what’s in with the season.

Do you consider the regular you a fashionable person?

I don’t really consider myself as a fashionable person. I personally look up to other people when it comes to this area. I always try and look for ideas that I think would suit me.

What do you typically daily wear?

On a daily basis, I usually go out with jeans, sneakers and a hoodie or a jacket. Very casual and accessible. Like they always say, a good pair of jeans never goes out of style.

What is your favorite thing to wear?

I would definitely say pajamas. I could wear them all day! I don’t know, but for me, it just has this sense of comfortability that makes me feel relaxed and zoned.

What can’t you live without?

I can’t live without my caps, shoes and jackets. For me it’s easy to mix and match whatever with these, and they can never go wrong.

What is your fashion philosophy?

For me fashion does not necessarily mean clothes and accessories always have to be expensive and branded. People carry what they wear not the other way around. Being in the music scene, I’ve been with tons of artists with artistic styles when it comes to clothing. So I try to pick up bits and pieces and try to come up with my own version.

For me, fashion is comfortability and availability. If you’re not comfortable, why wear it, right?

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REAL STYLE, REAL PEOPLE

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AL YS SA NI CO LE - Dubai UA E w w w .tec hnemoda .com

www.t hirstyt hough t.com

KRYZ UY Cebu - Philippines

Authentic, street-level suave and swankiness.

Filipino fashionistas ss with these so effortleJust this season seems Staying on point style, preen and slay! from around the globe. Easy peasy.

BUT CH CER VAN TES Abu Dhabi - UAE .blo gspot .ae ww w.fas hion wh oreffic

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KI KO CA GA YA T Gunma – Japan w w w .lookbook

.nu /kikoca

gayat

REAL STYLE, REAL PEOPLE

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Authentic, street-level suave and swankiness.

AE AB U DH AB I-U LO PA SC UA LT. CO M PO gS LO .B ET WWW . LO CL OS

.com

MIC HA EL MA CA LOS Manila - Philippines .com ww w.contemporaryboy

MA RJ AN NE RE YE S Dubai - UA E ww w. bo ho wanders

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

Patricia Zyrinn Villanueva de Guzman Artist, Designer, Storyteller Canada-based Patricia Zyrinn Villanueva de Guzman considers her art a medium for storytelling and a means to educate the world about the greatness of Filipinos.

Exposed to art from a very young age through her mother, UAE-based artist Susan Villanueva de Guzman, Patricia has a penchant for creating unique millinery and jewelry. She says, “I tell stories through the form of wearable art and jewelry. I love how I am able to utilize the body as a form for exhibiting my work.”

Hoping to show her work in both Calgary and Dubai Fashion Week, as well as do solo exhibits in Dubai and in the Philippines someday soon, Patricia, who considers herself at the beginning of artistic career, already has substantial achievements to her credit – from winning a commission in Abu Dhabi for her paintings “Brother and Sister” at 18 years old, to being part of group shows and exhibitions in Canada.

At the moment, this artist is busy further exploring her chosen field, expanding her design skills to shoes. She is also working on starting an artist residency program for the less fortunate back in the Philippines, as well as researching on the Bicolano Aetas.

I started creating art when I was two years old and I started exploring the theme of my cultural heritage when I was 15 in my International Baccalaureate Art Class. I remember creating a controversial piece about Filipino stereotypes attempting to shed light on how many Filipina women are stereotyped as maids. I wanted others to see that we were not just “the help” but actually talented individuals.

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The process is my favorite part of creating art. I was trained to conduct extensive research and ask questions like, “What is the purpose of this piece in the overall concept?” For instance, I enjoy designing and creating head pieces. I research on the different kinds of head pieces and its history. Then I ask myself questions like: How does it relate to Philippine culture? What other myths, beliefs, and traditions compliment this idea? Then I start designing and conducting media experimentations. Once I am happy with the materials, I start creating. However, the process is not done until I photograph the piece on a model. I enjoy the process immensely because I am constantly learning.

My story is what differentiates me from others. One day, my former instructor, Charles Lewton-Brain told me that we, as individuals, we are the story. I celebrate the uniqueness of my Philippine heritage and I believe that art is not a self-indulgent vocation but a way to educate people.

When I design, I infuse narrative about the rich heritage of Philippine culture. I want to open the world’s perception of who Filipinos are and what we are capable of.

My grandfather once told me that people are the ambassadors of their home country and therefore, I am a representative of the Philippines. I believe that we should stand tall as Filipinos and be proud of our heritage. This confidence and pride can be depicted in my work through how my pieces are worn.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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I celebrate the uniqueness of my Philippine heritage and I believe that art is not a self-indulgent vocation but a way to educate people. When I design, I infuse narrative about the rich heritage of Philippine culture. I want to open the world’s perception of who Filipinos are and what we are capable of.

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Visual Artist and Graphic Designer

CHOLO JUAN

Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

I take my art as a journey to every aspect of the human condition and experience. The part that I love the most about it is the experimentation and the process - the process which helps me awaken the subconscious.

I grew up in a family of artists and found great passion for art, music, film, and almost everything creative. I officially started my career when I joined the artist collective Brownmonkeys back in 2009. They were the ones who helped me develop my art, especially since I didn’t have any formal art background.

I think being “different” is overrated. Every art form has in one way or another, been inspired by everything else. That’s how the wheel of creativity works. I think what is important is finding the balance of staying true to your craft while still being open to view others’ works as a source of inspiration.

Cholo Juan’s work can be currently viewed in FN Designs – Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz Dubai, as part of a month-long group show. The artist is also planning for his solo art exhibition next year. facebook.com/DepiktDXB

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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By> Cholo Juan

Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

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ILLUMINATI

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

Triumph of the grievance vote B y > K r i p Yu s o n

It is said that Duterte’s foul-mouthedness struck a chord and resonated among the many who wouldn’t mind grasping both sides of a sharp blade. And that included not only the marginalized, but surprisingly, even the A-B folks who suddenly hankered for discipline with a capital D, even if it made short work of civil liberties and human rights.

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inevitable. From objective accounts, it drew hundreds of thousands, dwarfing the crowds that had gathered just as loyally for his contenders’ last hurrahs on the same evening. And Duterte’s horde was reported to represent the broadest range of demographics — from macho owners of muscle cars and big bikes to passionate young people to families on the socio-economic fringe.

many who wouldn’t mind grasping both sides of a sharp blade. And that included not only the marginalized, but surprisingly, even the A-B folks who suddenly hankered for discipline with a capital D, even if it made short work of civil liberties and human rights.

In the political outlier who had made all the reprehensible social moves, by way of cantankerous attitude and verbal assault, they all saw a symbol and a chance for change.

I take this stance: give the benefit of the doubt to those who voted him in as our next leader, that they were right with their feel of the pulse all along. Maybe they even had more sense than us.

As election day drew near, the handwriting on the wall seemed obviously stark.

And believers in reputable surveys (that includes me) could see it and read it: Rodrigo Duterte appeared poised to become the 16th Philippine President, with his numbers in both SWS and PulseAsia holding and increasing their lead over the second-placer, Grace Poe before a late mini-surge by Mar Roxas.

The rabid faith in the Davao Mayor had cast him in Teflon. No amount of lastminute attempts to paint him blacker than he already was in the eyes of his rivals and their supporters could affect that redeemer-hero image any more. If anything, they solidified blind faith, even added to his ranks of adherents.

It would be a grievance vote, ballots cast in anger and protest against the status quo — now seen and vilified as the rule of the elites that while providing for economic growth had also shown time and again a lack of empathy, and worse, callous mismanagement that had everybody grumbling over urban woes such as horrible traffic, inadequate infrastructure, airport scams, late or missing license plates and drivers’ licenses — the whole caboodle of inexplicable sources of stress for a working metropolitan population.

Mammoth attendance at his miting de avance in Rizal Park portended the

It is said that Duterte’s foul-mouthedness struck a chord and resonated among the

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Oh, there were gripes too outside and far away from the capital: from typhoon victims, hungry farmers, the kin and sympathizers of soldiers slaughtered in a mishandled military operation, injustice against lumads... Then there’s still the cry for poverty alleviation.

Well, the plurality has spoken. Whomever else we had supported in this election, the proper stance to take now is to accept the voice that won out, even if many more had expressed disgust over the winning candidate’s past pattern of behavior.

Thus, we should give him the benefit of the doubt just as well. For the first three-to-six months? Heh heh. If indeed he does right, well and good, then let’s join in support, for the good of the country. If not, then the gloves could go off again.

The other contest still has to see a real winner. I hope it’ll be the widow in yellow once again, against the son of a continuing bad memory. Some of Duterte’s followers say they smell a rat, that tallying manipulation could install a spare tire who may benefit from impeachment or whatever other form of ouster is directed against our 16th president.

Interesting times ahead. We can only hope that doesn’t mean the curse of turmoil as the Chinese say and mean it. Oh, and then there’s China to reckon with — after we all do our part in trying to explain our choice to an incredulous, head-shaking world. For now, and for some time to come.

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

#MoveOnPilipinas By > Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes

The end of the campaign season now puts us back in square one.

Where do we go from here? In the six Presidential elections I have participated in, getting back on track as one nation has always been a challenge for Filipinos.

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My country just ended a month-long campaign to entice registered Filipino voters in Dubai and the Northern Emirates to participate in 2016’s Presidential elections. Every six years, Filipinos across the globe choose their leaders through what is possibly one of Asia’s, even the world’s, most frenzied democratic processes. The particular election year seemed quite more fervid.

As far as I could recall, at no other time in our recent history, except thirty years ago during the 1986 Presidential Snap Elections between then President Ferdinand Marcos and Corazon Aquino, was everyone deeply zealous of their choice for the country’s top leadership. Support for the candidates was intense, bordering on the fanatical. Everyone joined the online fracas – each mouthing off an argument or two in favor of his or her candidate. Exacerbated by social media, the attempts at discrediting other Presidential contenders and, even more, their supporters were filled with vitriol. Quite frankly, the cyber bloodbath was brutal and harsh.

The end of the campaign season now puts us back in square one. Where do we go from here? In the six Presidential elections I have participated in, getting back on track as one nation has always been a challenge for Filipinos. Those who voted for losing candidates become adamant in supporting the elected President with the stubborn hope that they be vindicated at the earliest possible time. They openly mistrust

the new leader, branding him/her as incompetent and unworthy of the national leadership. Each mistake is magnified and derided. Sadly, this attitude has delayed our capability to move on and get on with the task of nation-building ahead.

We must not degenerate into being categorized by the candidate we favored.

Months before we opened the voting process to our Overseas Filipinos, surveys had already divided the Filipino soul into a pie chart of Presidentiables. Much effort was undertaken to lure others into their fray either by sweet coercion or by brazen bullying. As oppressive as the Philippines’ summer heat, vituperative words were exchanged between supporters, between commenters, and between tweets --- so much so that the race had seemingly become an personal battle between Filipinos.

On the one hand, it was refreshing to see Filipinos deeply involved in the discussions on issues our society faced even if they had been residing abroad for so long or if they had been so long detached from anything Filipino (especially the dizzying world of Philippine politics). Showbiz inanities were the normative starting point in conversations regarding our homeland not governance issues. Facebook somehow reinvigorated their propensity to dissect and intelligently discuss the country’s societal concerns. It strengthened their resolve to see Inang Bayan rise to the glory each Filipino believes the Philippines deserves. Social media awoke the burning

desire of every overseas Filipino to cure the ills of his motherland so that embrace her welcoming arms without fear of having to leave her once again for economic or political reasons.

The downside was that comment after comment, the barbs between camps were acrimonious, as if any distasteful remark merited infuriated responses from each other. Faceless interactions emboldened people all the more to viciously malign each other, consequences of a renewed arrogance hiding under invisibility the internet so conveniently cloaks them with.

By this time, a new President would have been chosen. A new one who did not statistically gain the majority of the electorate. Majority or minority notwithstanding, the incoming President will be leader of a 102-million-strong nation – a country and people desperately craving for a captain who could steer their ship to greater heights and loftier dreams.

They will be pleading for a government that would build on the gains we have already achieved and at the same time, further catapult our economy to global preeminence; a dream so sought after by a famished national soul that longs for the day when we can finally bequeath a better Philippines to our children and our children’s children.

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MONEY

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Make money. Maintain that money. Money pa more!

In trut h, the fina ncia l par t of mar riag e can be view ed as a corp orat ion. The hus ban d and wife are the orig inal stoc kho lder s of “Ma rria ge, Inc. ”

Marriage, Inc.: Talking about money in your relationship By> Francisco J. Colayco

The last thing we think about when we talk about love is money. But really, the inability to manage money is one of the big reasons why love, particularly marriages, fall apart.

That is why when you have decided to choose your partner for life, be very sure that money matters are something that you are both comfortable discussing before even making a decision to get married.

You need to be more specific about your “money relationship”, once you are engaged. Some couples think they can just talk about it after they are married. I disagree. You should already be honest with each other’s finances as you plan your wedding. In some cases, parents may still pay for the wedding. However, this should not matter. You both need to understand your money values as you make your wedding budget. If you can see that you have opposite ideas on money management, you may want to re-think getting married and save yourselves a lot of heartaches.

You need to set your budget as a couple.

Among the matters that you need to be

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open about to make a meaningful budget are: your sources of income, the kinds of expenses that you would classify as needs and wants, the spending limits for each type, who manages the money, who makes the final decisions, and issues on help to extended family. Agree on what would be “mine”, “yours” and “ours.”

You need to set your goals on: the number of children you want, the kind of education needed, the kind of lifestyle you expect, vacations, kind of car and house you expect, loans and borrowings, and investing.

The directions on money matters for your marriage could sound so cold and professional like you are entering into a business partnership. In truth, the financial part of marriage can be viewed as a corporation. The husband and wife are the original stockholders of “Marriage, Inc.” “Marriage, Inc.” also employs them as Chief Executive/Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer. They need to grow the company to be profitable through the proper management of income and expenses. They should learn to utilize their

profits and grow it further through proper investments.

They can have members of their extended family who need help as the company’s “CSR or Corporate Social Responsibility.”

They must remember as part of their CSR philosophy that they cannot share what they do not have.

They can have apprentices (their children) whom they have to teach to take over their company. They can start the apprenticeship at a very early age. They have to prepare for their own retirement from “Marriage, Inc.” by setting up their retirement fund.

There will be clashes of ideas and management style but all of these can be objectively discussed to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Whatever you wish to call it, marriage should be first and foremost, a union of two people in love and with mutual respect. Put everything in perspective and try to approach financial issues with as little emotion as possible.

With these in mind, “Marriage Inc.” should turn out to be a top-earner in all realms.

LAW

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Get right with the rules. Here’s how.

Making UAE Labor Laws Work for You By> Barney Almazar, Esq.

Whether you are working to live or living to work, it is important that you know your rights as an employee in the UAE. Employer-employee relationship in the emirates is primarily governed by Federal Law No. 8 of 1980 or commonly known as the UAE Labor Law. Although Article 63 talks about minimum wage, the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs has yet to propose a minimum wage. Until this happens, the employers and employees are on their own to agree on what constitutes as acceptable pay. With the government not interfering on the amount of remuneration, it is up to the job market to put a price on labor.

Landing your dream job Let the law work for you starting with preemployment. A common misconception is that issues arising before one becomes employed are not covered by Labor Law. Even if an employee is not yet hired, he is already covered by the law. For example, Article 18 prohibits demanding or accepting a commission or material reward for arranging recruitment--whether before or after his recruitment. It prohibits receiving payment for any expenses related to his employment.

If your potential employer is requiring you to pay for your recruitment cost or is charging an application or processing fee, you should take that as a warning and look for another employer. Your potential employer has already violated the law even if you are not yet under his employment.

Salary negotiation: Balancing basic wage and allowances Your monthly salary of AED10,000 is broken down into – 1) Basic Wage AED6,000; Transportation - AED1,500; Housing - AED2,500. Since you are getting the full AED10,000 every payday, should the breakdown matter? It depends.

Under Article 134, the wage which is considered as basis for computation of the end of service gratuity shall not include any allowances. In addition, overtime pay computation is likewise based on basic wage only. Thus, in the example above, the basis of gratuity pay will be AED6,000 since allowances will not be considered. If you are an OFW in the UAE, it will be beneficial if you will negotiate your basic salary to be AED10,000 instead, without any allowance.

Probationary Period A probationary period is not mandatory.

The law only permits this as an option.

According to Article 37, the employee may be appointed for a probationary period not to exceed six months. During this period, your continued employment is not guaranteed so it will be at your advantage if you can shorten or skip the probationary status.

Employment Contracts Your employment contract is the law between you and your company, provided of course that its terms and conditions do not contravene the law. So, every time you are promoted or given salary increments, always request your employer to execute a new contract, or at the very least, put your promotion or any change in your employment status in writing. Remember, Article 134 states that gratuity shall be computed on the basis of last wage which you were entitled to. If you do not have a new contract reflecting your new salary and your employer claims otherwise, proof of burden is on your side.

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THE PRACTICING

MISIS >

Kitchen advise for the curious cook!

Skills Muna Bago Feels “Anak, ‘wag ka na magdrama. Kung nahohomesick ka, humarap ka sa kalan at magluto ka.”

By> Rosan Katlea Reodica

Chicken Coriander Soup with Zucchini and Enoki Mushrooms

Surely, the quickest way to home is through a hot bowl of edible love reminiscent of a Sunday family dinner or that one time during college when you woke up to mom’s lunch of comfort food to cure your hangover. The following recipe is a one pot long distance call to my hometown Cavite. This may not strike nostalgia in you, but this is a surefire answer to a growling tummy after a busy day at work.

Chicken Coriander Soup with Zucchini and Enoki Mushrooms

Know that my Practicing Misis cooking project is within the confines of my landlady’s kitchen, with maybe an hour or two maximum (including ingredient prep time, simultaneous with laundry and Skype calls with the family) because nakakahiya and because no to OA time spent, I mean hello, learning is not equal to losyang!

COUNTER: 3 chicken breasts sliced into bite-sized pieces. Bring out your soup pot. Chop a medium onion, peel and smash a whole head of garlic, dice some yellow zucchini and 2 medium tomatoes.

Enoki mushrooms! A small bunch! Wash it thoroughly and spread them out. Don’t freak out from its weird sour smell. When cooked, this will act as noodles so if you’re trying to cut back on carbs, you’re welcome. Hehe. #Char

Try narin nating magluto kaysa kumain lang ng kumain. Knowing the process behind a dish and getting your fingers dirty is the real key to being a ‘self-confessed foodie’.

Hello, millennials!

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Lasang lutong nanay na may halik at amoy sa pisngi.

DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY: Baka maiyak ka sa tuwa kasi ang sarap niya pero sobrang dali. Please accept that sometimes, happiness comes easy, you masochist you.

For soup flavoring, bring out salt, pepper, light soy sauce, cayenne, ground cumin, basil, garlic powder and roughly torn fresh coriander leaves - because sometimes, we’ve got to get rid of the chicken cubes.

STOVE: In your pot, pour extra virgin olive oil, throw in the onions, garlic, salt and pepper. Sauté until the onions turn transparent. Mix in the chicken and cover the pot to let out its juices. Or hayaan mong magpawis ang manok para lalong lumambot, kumbaga, #nanayspeak. Then dump in the tomatoes and simmer. Mix in the enoki and zucchini. You’ll notice more water in the pot. Season with the flavorings prior mentioned according to taste. Stir.

Pour in about 1 ½ cups of water. Bring to boil. Adjust taste. Just before serving, tear up more fresh coriander leaves and garnish that chunky soup! Best paired with brown and red rice for a texture party. Oh, nanay will be proud with how healthy this is! Call her! Tell her you’re a legit adult now!

SKILLS UNLOCKED: Giving into that OF nostalgia, those bouts of homesickness for nanay’s comfort all while being productive and busog (you know, instead of crying into your pillow.)

The Practicing Misis Cookbook [No Fiancé Required, Guaranteed GayumaFree Recipes] - Psicom Publishing Inc., 2016. Available in the Philippines in National Bookstore, Fully Booked and other leading bookstores nationwide.

Social Media: @practicingmisis | #practicingmisis | #lukaretcooking

ILLUSTRADO STUFF >

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

LILY’S PEANUT BUTTER Huwag ismolin si Lily! This classic Filipino pantry item is made using natural oils – not those Frankenstein transfats that you cannot pronounce and your body cannot process. It’s actually a lot healthier for you than most American brands. The only drawback is that unlike the transfatty peanut butters that stay smooth and homogenous, Lily’s tend to split, with the runny stuff floating atop the jar and the heavy particles settling at the bottom. Oks lang yun. Mas masarap na, mas healthy pa!

TO PIMP A BUTTERFLY We could very easily take up an entire spread, reviewing this magnificent opus by Kenrick Lamar.

Critics are touting this as the best album of 2015, and with good reason – this collection of intricately written and masterfully produced tracks is both jagged-edged social commentary and a musical masterpiece.

AIRBNB Di ka makabyahe kasi wala kang pang hotel? I-AirBnB mo yan! AirBnB is a godsend for travellers who do not want to spend so much on accomodations.

AirBnB connects you to homeowners all over the globe who could lease you a bedspace, a room, or even an entire villa at a fraction of the cost of a usual hotel room.

BOUNCE DUBAI What a concept! A warehouse with 100 interconnected trampolines where you could just jump and soar and fly and feel like a kid again.

And it’s not all fun and games either – a NASA study determined that 10 minutes on a trampoline can be better for you than 33 minutes on the treadmill.

DATES These fibrous nuggets of sweetness are like nature’s very own cookies.

They’re packed with un-refined sugars, vitamins and minerals, and they even have anti-bacterial properties! Feeling a little sluggish before your workout? Pop a date or two and you’re good to go! If you think you don’t like dates, it’s probably only because all you’ve tried is the dry, gnarly kind that’s way past its best-by date. The squidgy ones are amazing.

NIVEA BB CRÈME Sikreto ng mga pa-bebe: BB Crème! Nivea BB Crème provides a gentle formulation and good coverage at a very market-friendly price.

HOLIDAY IN GEORGIA We do not just love Georgia – we are obsessed with Georgia! The food, the music, the history, the people – everything about it is just wondrous and magical. And on top of that, if you’re a Filipino based in the UAE, you get visa upon arrival. Put this country on top of your holiday bucketlist ASAP! illustrado go>47

RIGHT NOW PHILIPPINES

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Ti mel y i s s ue s ( or n on -i s s ue s ) th a t m a tte r a n d m a k e n o is e !

B y > E x c e l V. D y q u i a n g c o - M a n i l a

Homeless Graduates from College Rodallie Mosende has been living in the streets of Paterno, Quiapo for many years.

Aside from asking for food and alms from passers-by, she one time begged for vegetables and meat from vendors selling their wares when her mother got sick. But in 2011, her dismal life turned brighter when she crossed paths with Rick Rocamora, a documentary photographer who made her fierce passion to finish her education his subject. An anonymous benefactor soon heard about her plight, sent her to school and the people from online media caught on.

Last April 23, 2016, Rodallie finally graduated from the Lyceum University of the Philippines in Manila with a degree in International Hospitality Management. A day before she was set to graduate, she said that maybe everything was just a dream. But for someone who is determined to pull through in spite of the challenges, it never is.

Kathniel In Hot Offense?

Netizens have called two of the most promising stars in tinseltown, Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo or collectively known as Kathniel, a disgrace, when they posted photos of themselves holding their ballots. Others, meanwhile, have defended the couple saying that Kathryn posted with an unmarked ballot while Daniel posed with a concealed with a folder.

Because of the incident the Commission on Elections has been deliberating whether posting such photos on the internet is considered as an electoral offense. COMELEC is quite clear, though, that voters are allowed to bring their mobile phones inside their precincts but are not permitted to use their gadgets inside in whatever situation. James Jimenez, COMELEC Spokesperson, tweeted: “Kathryn and Daniel and I need to talk”. The fate of the couple remains to be seen.

Kathniel - http://www.interaksyon.com/entertainment/ kathniel-in-hot-water-over-photos-posing-with-ballots/ Homeless Girl - http://newsfeed.ph/viral/rodallie-mosendehomeless-college/

The Great Shih Tzu Walk Filipinos have a knack for breaking the Guinness Book of World Records. This time, many dog lovers pooled together for the largest dog walk of a single breed. Known as the Great Shih Tzu Walk, the event organized by Royal Canin Philippines was held on May 7, 2016 at Bonifacio High Street Activity Center. Adults and children participated with their dogs in colorful costumes.

Unfortunately the country wasn’t able to grab the title from the current record holder - Yorkimania with 783 Yorkshire Terriers had a group walk in Mexico.

Aside from the dog walking activity, other activities were in store such as a grooming demonstration, photobooth, pet photography, special awards and shih tzu training, among others.

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ANNIE B CHRONICLES

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Th e ad 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 ma ke i t i n th e c o s m o po lita n c ity o f Du b a i

Wo rki n g Gi rl and – promote world peace. Yes, hitting birds with one stone!

Chatting is fun – not only do meet new people from different cultures, but I also getting to re-invent myself.

But don’t get me wrong – I do not lie in chatting – I only enhance my already pleasing personality. Whenever asked, I do a little subtraction with my waistline and some addition to my bustline – hahaha – fun isn’t it?

Sometimes, I chat with three to five different people at the same time while typing some documents for my boss.

That’s what you call multinational-tasking, I guess….

g

Guess what? After sending out thousands of my CV thru the internet, signing up with more than a dozen headhunters and going thru never-ending interviews……I FINALLY HAVE A JOB!!! Mabrook to me! Dizzizit!!!! The beginning of my lifelong dream: to become a professional executive worldwide.

I am now officially a P.A. – not Production Assistant, not secretary, not public administration and definitely not secretary – but a Personal Assistant – to the Managing Director of Media Minds, a leading Public Relations company in sosy Dubai.

My British boss looks alike Harrison Ford. He’s handsome and he values my work and is always satisfied with everything I do. He’s always out, either travelling or during presentations or checking out the latest sale in the mall, I barely have anything to do. Honestly, my work is petiks – comfortable manageable for the eight hour – work everyday. I can actually finish everything within 3 hours. The rest of the day is just busybusy-han for me. Most of the time, to kill time and meet new friends at the same time, I chat online, to improve my communication skills, boost my confidence level, and increase my chance of getting a new boyfriend

Anyway, among the guys that I chat with, there’s this Filipino that has caught the fancy of my eyes. He’s really catch my attention because he’s a kabayan and we have a lot of things in common. His profile reads - “175cm tall, 75 kilos, a resident of the UAE for five years now, mestizo, a hopeless romantic and a rebel without a cause…” I’m picturing Robin Padilla in my mind already, especially with the gwapo sunglasses in his profile pic. Looks borta! And he listens to jazz music like Kenny G – such a sensitive soul! We haven’t swapped pictures yet but I think he’s the one. We’ve been chatting for almost three weeks now and he wants to have an E.B. (Eye Ball). I haven’t said yes coz he only sees my Pia Wurtzbach Miss U na Miss U profile pic and I told him my waistline is 23” and that my bustline is 36”. I have to lost weight really fast and look for a triple wonder bra before I say yes to his EB invitation.

Tick…tock..tick…tock…It’s still 10 minutes before 6:00pm – more time to kill before my carlift arrives and be able to go home. My boss is also pretending to be busy. I could see the reflection of his computer monitor thru the window beside him. It’s an online poker site. Whew! More guys are buzzing me for a chat already. It’s really true: When it rains, it’s force. Why not? The more entries you send, the more chances of winning – the more the manyer!!!

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ENTERTAINMENT

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

By> Kristine Abante – Dubai

John Lloyd to Jen: She’s a Superwoman In a recent remote press conference organized by TFC (The Filipino Channel) for members of the entertainment press in Europe and the Middle East, John Lloyd Cruz praised his co-star Jennylyn Mercado for being a strong woman and handling the pressures of motherhood and her career very well.

Both Cruz and Mercado star in the upcoming movie “Just the Three of Us, a romantic-comedy directed by Star Cinema’s Cathy Garcia-Molina who was also behind the phenomenal hit “A Second Chance.”

In the video interview, Cruz and Mercado also talked about the lessons they learned from working with director Cathy GarciaMolina (“A Second Chance”) on the film.

In the film, the award-winning actress Mercado plays the role of CJ Manalo, a flight attendant whose audacious claim that she is carrying the child of a pilot named Uno (Cruz).

Asked what is special about his new role, Cruz describes his character Uno as very “human.” “He is not afraid, he’s not out there to please everyone- he’s that kind of Character,” Cruz add. ‘Just the 3 of Us’ will debut this May in selected cinemas in the Middle East and parts of Europe.

Photo:TFC-ABS-CBN

Shorter working hours for TV & Film crew Following the complaints filed by the talents and film crew over stressful working conditions, the Department of Labor and Employment issued an advisory regulating the working hours of movie and television industry workers.

Heeding the appeal of officers and representatives of the film and TV industry labor force, Labor Secretary Rosalinda

Baldoz issued DOLE Labor Advisory No. 04 series of 2016. It provides, among others, that the actual work hours of movie and TV industry workers or talents shall not exceed eight hours a day.

“If they are required to work beyond eight hours, the maximum actual hours of work shall not exceed 12 hours in any 24-hour period,” Baldoz said in a statement.

The labor chief said the provisions of occupational safety and health standards

must also be strictly observed in movie and TV industry to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for all workers or talents.

Any violation of the provisions of the employment agreement or talent contract uncovered during the conduct of assessment, as well as complaints filed shall be subject to the DOLE’s 30-day conciliation-mediation services.

Alden Richards goes classical with Gerphil Flores Alden Richards showed a different side of himself when he joined a classical concert titled Songs from a Silver World held at the RCBC Plaza. The social media heartthrob shared the stage with classically-trained singer Gerphil Flores from Asia’s Got Talent, opera singer Rachelle Gerodias, and business tycoon George Yang.

The fundraising concert was held for the benefit of the Klassikal Music Foundation (KMF), which aims to help in the development and appreciation of local classical music.

Photo:GMA Pinoy TV

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ONLI IN DA PILIPINS

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Filipinisms. Sometimes awesome. Sometimes facepalm.

Angineeet!

20 Tell-tale Summer Signs

Because ‘tis the season you dread (Ouch, the heat!) and look forward to (Oh, the beach!) at the same time, you know it’s already summer in the Philippines when (in no particular order)…

B y > A b y Ya p

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Everyone gets hot-headed and annoying, including you, and your dialog every hour especially if you’re outdoors is “Angineeet,<insert curse here>!”

All you want for breakfast, lunch, merienda, and dinner is halo-halo, mais/saba con yelo, ice cream/drop/ candy/buko/tubig, or samalamig.

Forget brain freeze.

You think of kumikitangkabuhayan by selling all of the above because that’s what everybody wants. You could be a millionaire, too.

Malls become the masses’ haven on Earth. Free A/C, anyone? Movie houses become the masses’ bedroom.

Pay P200+, and you can sleep and snore away!

You suddenly miss the finale of every Palibhasa Lalake episode when they’d throw buckets of water at the guests.

Public transportation gets more challenging (as if finding one isn’t yet tough enough) as you brave the unspeakable stench and sweat of your

co-passengers amid the everyday traffic chaos.

7. Longganisa or sausage fashion strikes again since most people believe that summer gives you the right to wear sexy even if you’re not.

8. The shortest shorts in the history of womankind, which we shall call the paknapak shorts, are on display on the streets. Worn by our sisters, of course.

9. Your Facebook becomes a Bodybook.

On your News Feed are shamelessfullbody shots of your contacts in bikinis and trunks. To unfollow or to unfriend, that is the question.

10. Mom furiously delivers a one-hour sermon to the entire household once she receives the electricity bills.

11. Surprise, surprise! Couples stop being clingy because they’re all sticky. Now, that’s one good thing you can benefit from the heat.

12. Sunblock and whitening lotions are nearly out of stock. Remember, Filipinos aspire to be the fairest of them all.

13. You need a good umbrella to fight off the sun and the slimmest possibility of getting darks-skinned (again).

14. A long-lasting deodorant is on your must-have list, along with your summer OOTD. 15. You can’t go out without a stylish pair of sunglasses for your selfies with #japorms.

16. Taking a bath three times a day is a requirement. Anything less than that is a crime against humanity.

17. Boracay and Baguio win hands down as the places to be, where you’ll find most of your kin and chums.

18. All resorts, even hot springs, are full. But why you’d want to swim in boiling water during summer remainsa mystery.

19. You must go easy on sisig, lechon, chicharon, and everything else that can shoot up your high blood pressure.

20. You count the days until the rainy season comes, but then you realize that summer is still your favorite time of year.

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BLOG

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The value of looking back By> Les Fiestan – Riyadh, KSA

To err is human. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Don’t regret your past decisions, even if it was a mistake you were willing to make. Learn from it, look back and laugh, don’t take life’s bitter moments seriously,

I

I’ve recently decided to update my DeviantArt account and cringed at the sight of my old works. You are your worst critique indeed. I kept dropping the “F word” at the sight of some seriously tacky works I have done in the past. As I was about to delete them, I looked at the rest that followed and started to realize how it showed the development of my craft over the years.

Moreover, I also recalled the memories attached to each work and can’t help but smile and miss the people who were with me at the time of its creation.

Due to my constant need to recall or remind a friend about an experience we shared in the past, I was suddenly asked if am I a ‘recorder’ and no one ever called me that before. Ok, so maybe I am, but aren’t we all?

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I do have this fondness for remembering almost every event that is special to me, but who doesn’t? That’s why people have diaries, scrap books and most of all, photos; and Facebook has this Timehop app and the popular TBT/FBF hashtag in social media.

I am a very sentimental person, I love to take photos and gather souvenir items that mean something to me. A solid piece of evidence that shows that I’ve been there and done that; a single item that will trigger that memory. Abeit there are memories we are not so fond of and emotions are attached to every memory, be it good or bad.

We are told to forget the past and remember only the happy times, how can we? Even traumatic and painful events are still stored at the back of our minds; we just shake off the negative feeling whenever we’re reminded of it.

Take it from this famous quote by George Santayana, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

To err is human. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Don’t regret your past decisions, even if it was a mistake you were willing to make. Learn from it, look back and laugh, don’t take life’s bitter moments seriously, take it as a challenge. When emptiness, hopelessness and fear are present, look beyond that; look to the horizon and take that risks — take that first step. There’s no turning back, move forward, let go and face the unknown that lies ahead.

But never forget your past. http://blue-vylette. deviantart.com/ Follow Les http://lesfiestan. daportfolio.com/