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JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2015
CHAMPIONING THE WORLD CLASS FILIPINO
ISSUE
92
A FILIPINO EXPAT GUIDE TO SETTLING ABROAD FROM THE USA TO THE UK, AUSTRALIA, GERMANY, NEW ZEALAND, IRELAND, SINGAPORE, ETC. EPIC RESOLUTION FAILS WE ALL HAVE ‘EM!
SURVIVE AND THRIVE! TO JUAN AND MARIA, YOU’RE NOT IN THE BARRIO ANYMORE DECLUTTERING YOUR LIFE: WHY YOU SHOULD DO IT AND HOW IT’S DONE
FLY
#PINOYWANDERLUST
PHOTOGRAPHY by EROS GOZE
EDITOR’S NOTE
There was a time in my childhood when the thought of leaving the Philippines was simply unthinkable. I never really understood why my dad had to work in Saudi Arabia, away from the family, year after year. And hence, going abroad to me sounded like some kind of terminal affliction – a virus a Filipino acquires and never recovers from. You go out of the motherland and somehow, you are never really able to come back. And so, almost 25 years ago, it had to take ‘brute influence’ from my parents to move me from our small barrio in the Philippines to the then budding city of Dubai. Of course, it’s a totally different time and a different world now. Being abroad has taken on another meaning for me – that of being home, away from the homeland, despite being a foreigner. This is probably true for lot of us, OFs (Overseas Filipinos), balikbayans, and second generation Filipino expats. Our forefathers have been migrating elsewhere since the early 1900s. Now over 10% of our population of 100 million are scattered in more than 200 countries around the globe. The world has become so much smaller for Juan dela Cruz. Before, Filipinos ventured abroad mainly for work - to provide for their families back home.
GO FORTH But now, more and more, with technology and globalization, and with air travel becoming more accessible to the masses, a lot of our compatriots are moving, not only to earn, but to widen their horizons, to be at the cutting edge of their chosen fields, to learn, to enjoy a different lifestyle and sometimes, just to take on a new adventure. And why not? There is so much to be gained from going out into the world; so much enrichment to be had from imbibing new knowledge and experiences, cultures, tastes, philosophies, lifestyles and mindsets. Author Mary Anne Radmached had so aptly put it, “I am not the same having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world.” And so dear Illustrados, we dedicate our first issue of the year for all of you out there bitten by wanderlust - whether you’re looking for a new place to plant your roots, trying to find your next global pit stop, or just planning to get away for a brief escapade. The world is your oyster. Go forth. Taas Noo, Filipino! LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
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TALKING LOUD
Write to us at: admin@illustrado.net or join the discussion at IIlustrado Magazine’s Facebook page
CHRISTMAS REMINISCING Greetings from Abu Dhabi. Read your article “Baby it’s Cold Outside.” I’m a single gal, and I must say that I’m happy being one. I guess, singletons like me feel a little extra sensitive during the holidays because of their expectations. But you don’t need to be unhappy just because you’re not part of a pair. There are a lot of advantages to being single. Besides, if you surround yourself with real friends (not the fake ones who are only good to you when they can get something from you), you will never be alone. Carrie B in Abu Dhabi
GLORIUS PINOY FOOD I’m a foodie who’s fiercely loyal to Filipino native food, but am sort of helpless in the kitchen. I try to cook whenever I can, but can only manage a few basics. It’s embarrassing, but I can’t even do adobo right (suka and toyo proportions)! So imagine how happy I was to see Filipino recipes in your recent Christmas issue! And that too, you covered a lot of my alltime favorites! Now at least, even if I attempt to do paella (I hope I can) or embutido (my BF loves this), I have your recipes. I hope I’ll be successful. And… please continue to share Filipino recipes. I’m sure a lot of our kabayans would love it!
Wala nang mas masaya pa sa pasko sa sariling bayan. Nakakamiss yung tunay na Paskong Pinoy. Di lang dahil sa masasarap na pagkain, ngunit dahil dun sa kasiyahan na mararamdaman sa buong kapaligiran sa atin pag pasko. Kahit yung pagkaka caroling ng mga bata, pagdalo sa simbang gabi, at yung mga inaanak na namamasko – hahanap-hanapin mo talaga. Pero kahit na nahohomesick ka dito sa ibayong dagat, tuloy-tuloy pa rin. Dahil alam nating lahat na ang sakripisyo na ito ay para sa ikabubuti ng ating mga mahal sa buhay. Celso Aranda
Connie Gonzaga
USAPANG ILLUSTRADO
Love, love the food in your December ish, Illustrado! Keep ‘em coming!
We’ve asked Illustrado fans on Facebook about what they wanted to say to Pope Francis, on the occasion of his Philippine visit. Here’s what they had to say
Dakilang Nanay
Sarap talaga ng paskong Pilipino! Illustrado, salamat sa masasarap na recipe. Sinubukan na naming nung Noche Buena! Ayos!
Pray for the wicked crocodiles and wolves and sharks that they might not feel the need to eat the sheep anymore Joshua Labajo
Merlito Cruz Sanapo wala pong magkakasakit sa amin; bigyan pa ako ng mahabang buhay at tuluyan nang gumaling ang kapatid ko at kayo na rin po bahala sa mga taong nagtraidor sa akin. Bahala
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na po kayo sa kanila. Salamat po, Lolo Kiko. April Nakamura Dear Pope, How do you maintain your peace in you, when you see and hear what has happened to humanity? Terrorism, rape, corruption and all types of violent crimes. Is it a sin to hate them? Is it a sin to wish them bad? Christine Catolico Tilja Dear Pope, Please allow divorce, birth control to empower people to make a choice in their lives and send our corrupt leaders to hell asap to help us out of poverty. Any collections made in church should be given to the sick, the old forgotten folks abandoned by their children and the children abandoned by their irresponsible parents who thought that having far too many is a gift from God but are not able to support them (please ask our government not to tax it). Please also ask our people to understand that monies are not made out of a miracle, it actually involves sacrifices and hard work from OFWs. I am sure that God will understand. Thank you. Anna McBride I still have the ‘Pope Francis Effect’. We must learn the true message of the pope for our country. We must share our love, our mercy and our compassion to those who really need it. The pope had shared so many lessons and good values that we must meditate and give some quiet moments to understand and make it as our daily task for us to be a good Christian. Aris Llanto
CONTRIBUTORS
ALFRED “KRIP” A. YUSON
FRANCISCO COLAYCO
BO SANCHEZ
Esteemed writer Krip Yuson has earned distinctions as a literary author of over 20 other 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 in his column, “Illuminati.”
Resident personal finance guru Francisco J. Colayco and Illustrado’s Money columnist has several best-selling books to his credit, and an advocacy on teaching Filipinos how to prosper. In his column this month, he shares about the spiritual side of money.
Best-selling author, renowned speaker and TV personality, Bro. Bo Sanchez, doesn’t really need any introduction. This Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) awardee shares worthwhile words of wisdom with Illustrado readers in his column on Spirituality. In this issue, Bro. Bo shows us how we can change our lives within 30 days.
ABY YAP Aby’s Onli in da Pilipins column touches on stories celebrating the exciting uniqueness, the sheer honesty and humor, of Pinoy culture. Aby captures Pinoy way of life so well that everyone can relate to her column or at least see one of your relatives among them! In this issue, Aby writes about the resolutions you just can’t make when you are in the Philippines.
NICHOLO JALLORES Nicholo Jallores is an advertising account executive, writer, singer, dancer, cardio junkie and a wannabe theoretical physicist. When he was young, his grandmother convinced him that anything is possible, and gullible child that he was he believed her. He engraved that mindset so deeply on the core of his being that now he walks around the city thinking that he can be anything and everything — a dangerous man. He eats his steak rare and mooing, because he believes that if one wants to have the best things in life, he must not be afraid of tasting a bit of blood in his mouth.
KRISTINE ABANTE
IRVIN RIVERA
QUAY EVANO
Illustrado’s fashion editorial “And So We Fly” features the photography of California-based Irvin Rivera, whose works have been featured in cutting edge contemporary US titles including Fantastics Mag, Vigore, Jute, Huf, Rude, Gale Magazine, MOD, Discourse, among others. Irvin says he used to draw Dragon Ball Z characters until he got his first 3.2 MP Digital Camera. Thereafter, his love for films, art and literature has led him to creating fashion stories and editorials which not only feature the style of the day, but also tell a story.
Former Dubai resident, now based in Alberta, Canada, Quay Evano has spent much of his adult life abroad. In this edition, Quay shares his wealth of expat experience and provides tips to help Filipinos who are planning to move to different countries across the globe. When he is not ruminating about expat life, former PR man Quay, works as TFCs correspondent and video journalist in Canada, while doing photography and teaching music.
Dubai-based Kristine Abante calls herself an analog girl in a digital world. A struggling writer in the guise of a corporate executive, she believes in seven impossible things before breakfast and in silly things like peace, love and understanding. A cat person and fan of social media, she spends a little too much time in the internet. In this issue, Kristine collects useful insights from Filipinos living around the world and gives kababayans wanting to go abroad some useful guidelines.
BARNEY ALMAZAR, ESQ Atty. Barney is a director at the Commercial Department of Gulf Law in the Middle East, Philippines and United Kingdom. He holds Juris Doctor and MBA dual degrees with concentration on International Business and European Union Law (University of London). He is a partner at Avanti Gulf, a recruitment company with access to 400 firms and 16,000 recruiters across six continents.
EXCEL DYQUIANCO Excel Dyquianco is both a vagabond and a writer. He has tackled all sorts of topics for illustrado including planning for the future (which included getting a memorial plan) and travel tips. In his article ‘Your Home, Your Work Place,” Excel gets off the wanderer’s trail to write about how Filipinos can be self-employed and break out of their nine to five existence with the use of technology.
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ANNA DE LEON Anna de Leon is a make-up artist and stylist who is passionate about educating and empowering women through make-up and styling. Breezing through life in her black stilettos and red lipstick with no excess baggage, this Dubai-based sophisticate says that the best thing people can do for themselves in the New Year is to de-clutter. Read her article “Life Make-Over.”
CHAMPIONING THE WORLD CLASS FILIPINO
PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lalaine Chu-Benitez CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mon Benitez ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ana Santos COLUMNISTS Aby Yap Alfred “Krip” Yuson Barney Almazar Bo Sanchez Francisco Colayco CONTRIBUTING WRITERS – UAE, Mary Ann “Maps” PHILIPPINES, CANADA Santos SWITZERLAND Nephele Kirong Angela Mapa Nikka Sarthou Anna Oposa Nina Terol-Zialcita Barbara Marchadesch P.A. Escalante Candice Lopez Quimpo Princes Nedamo Dante Gagelonia Quay Evano Didi Paterno Rache Hernandez Excel Dyquianco Regina Layug-Lucero Kara Santos Mary Ann Marchadesch Sherry Tenorio Sonny Guzman CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS –UAE, PHILIPPINES & USA Eros Goze Alex Calueng Glenn Peter-Perez Cristina Linaza Dr. Marlon Pecjo Donald Rosales Raen Badua Irvin Rivera CONTRIBUTING FASHION CREW - UAE Ginno Alducente Jessie Tabla Jojo Padua 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.net Web: illustradolife.com, illustrado.net Facebook: Illustrado Magazine Twitter: Illustrado Magazine PRINTERS Printwell Printing LLC P.O. Box 18828 Dubai, UAE STOCK IMAGES Shutterstock.com (Unless otherwise specified) Copyright Illustrado Communications FZLLC 2006 – 2015 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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JAN 2015 CONTENTS
Filipino-American model Devon Spence flies across Illustrado’s fashion pages with this season’s lightest of leisurewear – shot in Los Angeles, California by Irvin Rivera of Graphics Metropolis.
features Trading Places: A Filipino Expat Guide to Settling Abroad 10 Surviving Abroad 24 Juan and Maria: Out of the barrio, into the world 28 Your Home, Your Work Place 31 Life Make-Over: De-Clutter in 2015 34
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columns Editor’s Note 1 Talking Loud 2 Contributors 4 Illuminati: The God of Beginnings 8 Spirituality: Change your Life in 30 Days 36 Money: The Spirit of Financial Planning 38 Law: Credit Cards and Loans 40 It’s What I Do 42 10 Things to Do this Month 46 Scrapbook 48 News: Ooberfuse in Tacloban 70 Pinoy Planet: My Pinoy Life in Edmonton 72 Onli in Da Pilipins: 15 Resolutions ou Might Not Keep 78 On the Prowl, In the Know 80
fashion And So We Fly 50 Real Style, Real People 66
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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES ABU DHABI & AL AIN
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DUBAI & NORTHERN EMIRATES
Asia Pacific Cargo – Karama, Books Gallery – Jumeirah, Mall of the Emirates and Sahara Center branches, Carrefour – Ajman, Century Mall, Deira City Center, Mall of the Emirates, Sharjah, Shindagha, Ras Al Khaimah, Choitrams - Emirates Hills, Green Community, the Greens, Rashidiya, Safa Park, Springs and Umm Suqueim, CM Supermarket, Karama, Dubai Airport Duty Free Shops, Geant Hypermarket - Ibn Battuta Mall, Hyper Panda - Dubai Festival City, Jashanmal - Caribou Uptown Mirdiff and Wafi City, Magrudy Bookshop - Deira City Center and Ibn Battuta Mall branches, News Centre - Deira City Center, DIFC, Mall of the Emirates and Sahara Center branches, Philippine Supermarket – Satwa, Spinneys - Al Ghurair Center, Bin Souqat, Meadows Town Centre, Mercato, Mirdiff, Prime Rose, Ramada Bur Dubai and Trade Center Rd. Bur Dubai branches
BAHRAIN
24 Hours – Al Hamala, Al Zahra Avenue, Busaiteen Muharra and Hoora branches, Al Batra Supermarket, Al Fahad Cold Store – Zallaq, Al Ghadeer Foodstuff – Al A’ali, Al Hilal Administration – Sheraton Complex, Al Jazira Supermarket – Zinj, Adliya and Juffair branches, Al Mena Supermarket – Adliya, Al Shahd Market – Hamad Town, Buheji Center – Budaiya, City Pharmacy – Sitra Mall, Dairaty Market – Duraz, Evershine Supermarket – Rifa’a, Geant Hypermarket – Manama, Hamad Town Supermarket, Hassan Mahmood Cold Store – Opp. Awal Cinema, Hidd Co-Op Society, Jassim Markets – Busaiteen Muharra, Jawad Convenience Stores – Budaiya, Jawad Express Bapco Station – Seef, Jawad Supermarket – Nuwaidarat Sitra, Kaifan Cold Stores – Hamad Town, Little Kingdom Cold Stores – Manama, Manayer Supermarket – Awali, Midway Supermarket – Hamala, Muharraq, West Rifa’a and Gudaibiya branches, Muntaza Supermarket – Muharraq, Muntaza Supermarket – Sitr Muharraqa, The News Stationery – Manama, Universal Food Center – Rifa’a
QATAR
Ahlan Wassahlan Bookshop, Alam Al Agziya – Landmark, Al Aaela Shopping Centre- Al Nasr, Airport and Al Rayan branches, Al Madina Supermarket, Al Mustaqbal Bookshop, Al Qalam Bookshop, Al Usra Bookshop, Al Waha Marketing Centre, Daheel Food Centre, Dar Al Oroouba Bookshop, Dar Al Thaqafa Al Kitab and Al Nasr, Dasman Hypermarket, Dasman Shopping Centre, Jarir Bookshop, Jehaz Bookshop Al Mansoora, Khayat Fitwell, Lamcy Supermarket, Lulu Al Sharq, Megamart Centre, Newsstand Landmark, Rawabi Food Centre, Strand Bakery, Supermarket Al Taif Al Nasr and Supermarket Sak Illustrado magazine is sold in over 150 outlets around the Gulf, including
Oman and Kuwait.
ILLUMINATI
by Krip Yuson
I like the French word for the first month of the year: Janvier. Sounds poetic. But if you’re to Google it further, dismaying is the knowledge that Janvier Labs “are an international and independent company, specializing in rodent research models and associated services.” Thankfully, it is also “a London-based premium accessories house with an emphasis on luxurious statement pieces.” Oh, there’s an octogenarian artist named Alex Janvier, based in Canada, where a couple of years back, presumably as an offshoot of his popular art, a new Janvier Gallery opened in the City of Cold Lake. Lastly, it’s also a photo lab in Paris. Of course it’s a variation of the Latin for January as the first month of the year in both the Julian and Gregorian calendars: Ianuarius, named after Janus, the god of beginnings and transitions in Roman
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mythology. It also comes from the Latin word for door (ianua) since “January is the door to the year.” Originally, March was the first month in the old Roman calendar, when traditionally it consisted of only ten months, with winter deemed as a month-less period. But either around 713 BC or 450 BC, depending on the Roman historian, the months of January and February were added to stretch the calendar and make it nearly equal to a standard lunar year of 354 days. By 153 BC, the practice of naming two consuls who entered office on May 1 and March 15 was changed, to have them enter office on January 1. By the 16th century, European countries “began officially making January 1 the start of the New Year once again — sometimes called Circumcision Style because this was the date of the Feast of the Circumcision, being the seventh day after December 25.”
I still recall January 1 being celebrated as the Feast of the Circumcision, way back as a grader in San Beda College in Manila. Five days later it was the Feast of the Epiphany, or Three Kings, on January 6, no matter what day that holiday fell on, until the practice gave way to having it on the first Sunday of the first month, thus becoming a movable feast. Things change. But as the French say, the more things change, the more they stay the same. Or do they? I recall having our kids line up their shoes by a window on the eve of the Feast of Three Kings. And we’d fill them with chocolates and candies, and leave some dirt around the shoes, as evidence of camels’ dirty toes. But this practice has waned, for the most part. One less holiday, one less gift-giving day. On the other hand, the Scots still celebrate the 25th of January as Robert
ILLUMINATI
“In recent years, January has become our balikbayans’ favored month for homecoming. Not only are airfares low. Also avoided is the crush of the Christmas season, the terrible traffic, the pellmell nature of malling, caroling, daily feasting.” Burns Night, with more than wee drams of whisky toasting to Burns’ memorable poems, plus haggis, that distinct Scottish dish. In Manila, not only the Scots toast to this day, as it’s also the birthday of still beloved Tita Cory, or former President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino. In the United States, it’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on the third Monday of January. Another event to look forward to that could be enveloped by the month is Chinese New Year, which could start as early as January 21. But then again it could be as late as a month after.
arrival of a new moon, but how it detailed the passage of the seasons more than agricultural phases of the year. Decades later, a Waray folk song would celebrate the Spanish months in a distinct way, marrying their recitation as verse to something totally unrelated. Thus, the “Lubi-lubi” song that has since been claimed even by non-Warays, and said to be “taught in elementary schools elsewhere in the Philippines because the last lines serve as a useful mnemonic for the months of the year.” Thus, “Enero, Pebrero,/ Marso, Abril, Mayo,/ Hunyo, Hulyo, Agosto,/ Setyembre, Oktubre,/ Nobyembre, Desyembre,/ Lubi-lubi.”
I used to think that lubi-lubi meant coconut in the South. Wrong. It is the plant Solanum nigrum (black nightshade), or kamkamatisan or gamagamatisan in Tagalog. But Albay has also claimed the folk song, with different lyrics, which refer to “the unbearable heat that the woman endures throughout the twelve months of the year; without the reliable fan, the lady says she could have fainted.” The god of beginnings, or transitions, could not have had it any other way. The more things are begun, the more they stay the confusing same?
No matter. In recent years, January has become our balikbayans’ favored month for a homecoming. Not only are airfares low. Also avoided is the crush of the Christmas season, the terrible traffic, the pellmell nature of malling, caroling, daily feasting. And yet the season remains balmy, for golf back in the homeland, for clan reunions, why, even as late as Valentine’s Day. Indeed, the god of beginnings can stretch the door for all practical purposes. We can also imagine how, in the 16th century whence began our colonization, the word “Enero” was introduced to our shores. Not only was a calendar concept of time brought to bear on our forebears’ consciousness, making distinct each
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FEATURE
By Kristine Abante
They say if you haven’t dared left your comfort zone you will only be reading one page of a great book. Those of us who have been lucky enough to experience the thrill of stepping into another country will tell you that there is this priceless rush that comes from the moment you first set foot on foreign soil. Everything seems so exotic - the air, the weather, the street signs, the food, public
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transportation, people talking in a language you don’t understand. You take this all in as you assess the possibilities before you. It is frightening, yes, but it is also rewarding to have that chance to be a brand new person, open to new adventures ahead. There was a time when travel was not
exactly popular among Pinoys, when the word “abroad” only brings to mind three things – a) you’re family is loaded rich, b) you have relatives abroad who petitioned for you, or c) you are an OFW bound for a tough life in the Middle East, Europe or Canada.
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Pinoy expats are proving that although there might be no place like home, there is also no limit to the places you can call home.
we’ve gathered some insights from our fellow Filipinos living in key places around the globe to help you plan your next big move.
USA Mindy Rule, Los Angeles, California Mindy Rule, an accountant based in Los Angeles and moved to the US back in 2002 to be with her eldest sister. She says, “Moving to the LA as a fresh grad, I took a job in a small company as a secretary and then I went back to school to get more credentials in my field. I worked full-time and attended night classes. Now, I’m working as an accountant in a multinational corporation.” Famous for NBA and Hollywood, Mindy enjoys LA’s multi-cultural scene and appreciates how traffic rules and regulations are followed over there. A big Filipino community in LA also made it easier to settle. Times have changed, however. Nowadays with cheaper international fares and better opportunities, we see Filipinos from all walks of life, not only making their way but also planting roots across globe. Masters at the art of adapting and integrating, Pinoy expats are proving that although there might be no place like home, there is also no limit to the places you can call home. If you’re thinking of spreading your wings and moving to certain parts of the world,
“Filipinos are in the top 5 immigrants here. They can become immigrants through employer petition or through family petition, but based on experience, it’s a challenging and long process, so you have to be patient.”
Rowena Olores, Dallas, Texas Rowena moved to the US in 1991 when she was offered a job as a physical therapist for
a hospital system in Lufkin, Texas. “I landed here with a working visa and a temporary license to practice while reviewing to take the State Board/Licensure Exam for a permanent license. I have since practiced and pursued a post graduate clinical fellowship and now specialize in Manual Therapy/Ortheopedics,” she explains. “I like the efficient healthcare system of the US. As far as I know they do not deny anyone of medical care, especially in emergency situations despite your inability to pay.” She adds, “Culturally, Americans are in general, courteous and generous people. They practice the principle of right of way, they would hold a door out for a stranger, will acknowledge your presence by making eye contact or by nodding or greeting you. They also have excellent highway systems - you can see where your taxes are going. Shipping and mailing services are dependable. Freedom of speech is upheld here and personal and professional advancement is open and accessible to everyone regardless of race, ethnicity or economic status.”
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Although living in the suburb has its downside, Rowena shares. “You don’t see much people around the street, so you don’t expect much community interaction unlike in the Philippines. You have to be very intentional to reach out to make friends with your neighbors. People tend to stay in their own homes unless you live in more thickly populated areas like New York or California.” As for migrating to the US, she says, “You can move here via an employer based/ sponsored petition or a family based petition. You need to be in a profession that is currently in demand. In the 90’s the country was open for medical professionals. Nowadays, the demand is for Information Technology and telecommunications engineers. You can hold a working visa and
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then, apply for a green card/immigrant visa after a year or two. Then eventually, you will be eligible to apply for citizenship after five years of being a permanent resident. Comprehensive information can be found on immigration rules at www.uscis.gov.” Rowena also shares a few dos and don’ts – “Beware of the lure of credit cards. American Society is encouraged to ‘build credit score’ and that entails borrowing money or using your credit cards to show your ability to pay for loans. Your mailbox will be filled with application forms whether you like it or not. As for dos - connect with Filipinos to ease the feeling of being homesick. Make sure you know how to drive. Public transportation is in place in bigger cities but limited in smaller towns. Be mindful of their culture and how you interact. Learn
by observation, reading and interaction. Be open to change some of our old cultural habits like “bahala na”, because that can go against you as Americans are very process and result-oriented. Listen and discuss, instead of assuming. Also, be comfortable in your own skin. We, Filipinos, are very hard working and are naturally caring individuals and Americans will see and acknowledge that. That way ,you can make the common phrase ‘America, the land of opportunity’ work for you.”
Joni Cham, New York City Joni Cham is a book author/
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research analyst who migrated to New York with her Fil-Am husband towards the end of 2013. “I live in Brooklyn, in one of the boroughs of NYC. I like it because it’s away from the touristy hustle and bustle of Manhattan, and yet it’s also close enough for the occasional show or dinner and drinks. I’m a writer in New York, which is such a cliché. The alternative is a housewife, which I am too plus a few other words. Currently, I’m on the hunt for a full-time job. In a sense, I feel like I don’t think I can really know this city well enough until I get out there and be part of it.” For Joni, the two major challenges of settling in NYC are the cold and the high cost of living. “I like the diversity of NYC. I like that I can try so many different cuisines, for instance. Oh, and I love, love, love the library! Free access to knowledge
is definitely one thing that the US is doing right. Many Americans take this for granted but I always feel a sense of gratitude every time I go to my local library. For the more mundane things, I like having fast Internet and a (relatively) good subway system. Traffic is never as bad as it is in Manila. It’s the everyday things after all that make up a life.”
Art Simplina, Tampa Bay, Florida Art Simplina came to the US in 1999, from Saudi Arabia, to be with his wife, FilipinoJapanese nurse Meiko, whom he met in the Philippines. “While looking for a job, I enrolled at a local community college in Clearwater, Florida which eventually became St. Petersburg
College. I got my certifications for Microsoft Network Systems Engineer and Cisco Certified Network Associate. These qualifications later on helped me land a job at GE where I worked for 7 years.” “America is a land of opportunity. It has given us the chance to improve our lives compared to our conditions back in the Philippines. Working hard will reward one’s effort and things that were not previously affordable are within one’s reach. “Going from one place to another is easy.
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People observe the road courtesies; traffic flow is organized and smooth. “
CANADA Joy Duyan - Toronto Joy Duyan moved to Toronto in 2005 as a caregiver. She was on a working visa for two years. “After I finished the caregiver program, I applied for an open permit (which allows the holder to work for any employer) while waiting for my permanent residency. After I received my open permit
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in 2008, I started working in a construction company. “ According to Joy, “Canada is a the best country to live in with pretty good job prospects, social programs that help out people when in need, a reasonable cost of living, an average life expectancy of over 80 years for its citizens, and free health benefits for residents.” For Filipinos who want to migrate to Canada, Joy shares, “If you want to migrate to Canada, there are a few different ways to apply. You will need to decide which immigration program will work best for you and your family. It is also important to know about credential recognition. Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) recommends that you review the resources on the Foreign Credentials Referral Office’s website to learn
about the steps you need to take to get your credentials and qualifications assessed and recognized in Canada.” She also advises, “As we set our sights to immigrate to a new country, one of the most important tasks is to get hold of a job. It is advisable to segregate our job search in two phases. The first job is the one that pays the bills, and the second job can be your aspiration. Reason being, many of the fields in which we were working back home are regulated, meaning we need a license to practice. Also there is a need for “Canadian Experience.” Both these aspects can be fulfilled if we get hold of a survival job first for necessities. This also gives us some time to contemplate on the type of job we want to go after. It is also advisable to get a temporary accommodation for a period of 2-3 months as one goes into a new
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geography. This temporary accommodation can be a basement of a house or a shared one to keep expenses to a minimum. This will also help you understand the city better. Once you identify the location you prefer, you can then tackle the decision of whether to buy or rent for the long term. When you get to be financially stable, you might want to consider getting a Life Insurance and a Registered Educational Savings Plan (RESP) for your children’s education. In this way you are securing yourself and your family.”
AUSTRALIA
for its great outdoors. But the downside for her, especially as a traveler who got used to being conveniently located in the Middle East, is being very far from the rest of the world now. As for getting settled, she acknowledges the very helpful local Filipino community there. “I was very fortunate to find Pinoy AU Sydney group on Facebook. There’s lots of information there from the forums and discussions and lots of nice and friendly people, too. You’ll be surprised even more that there are Filipinos who are very willing to help out fellow Pinoys. “
Cristy Guadiz - Sydney Jun Tacio, Melbourne Jun moved to Australia in July of 2008., by the invitation of his company, Novartis OTC to join their IT department as an Infrastructure Systems Manager. He moved to Australia via a company sponsored work visa and has been based in Melbourne, voted the most livable city in the world, for four consecutive years.
Cristy Guadiz, a Financial Controller based in Sydney, relocated to Australia just last year, after working in a multinational company for 6 years in Dubai. “I live in west of Sydney. I had previously applied for permanent residency and then managed to get a job transfer in the same company where I was working in Dubai before I moved. ” Cristy mentions that she appreciates the laid back vibe and beautiful landscape of the so-called ‘Land Down Under,’ famous
Jun shares, “Life in Melbourne is actually laid back compared to Manila, Riyadh or Cairo (cities where I previously worked and lived for years). And yet, the city is very sophisticated. Melbourne is known as the arts and culture capital as well as the Sports capital of Australia, so there are events and festivals going on whole-year through. Then, there is always that option to drive to the scenic mountains and valleys that rural Victoria has to offer. Orchards and vineyards are also open to the public
for day drives. Melbourne is also a culinary hotspot, with everything from burger joints to posh eateries, and there’s also a thriving bar scene and café culture.” “It’s a bit more expensive to live in Australia compared to the US and Canada and most of Europe. But it is cheaper compared to the UK and Singapore. Singaporeans actually prefer to study down here. Also, it is cheaper to live in Melbourne compared to Sydney. But there is always a trade-off. Permanent residents and Aussies enjoy very good medicare which is not available in the US.” “Filipinos can move to Australia via skilled migration, family connections, and company sponsored work transfer. Filipinos can independently apply to migrate to Australia provided their skills are listed in the Skilled Occupations List (SOL) at www.immi.gov.au/Work/Pages/skilledoccupations-lists/sol.aspx. Migrants can eventually secure citizenship once they met the required number of years of residency in Australia. The Australian Immigration Office website can offer more details about this - www.citizenship.gov.au. Jun shares some of the dos and don’ts to consider when applying for migration to Australia. “Australian migration requirements can be daunting. The lengthy process and equally lengthy forms required to be filled up will put you off at first but this is the norm. So have patience.” “Plan carefully, especially if you are relocating with your family. Learn as much as you can about Australia or whatever that country you’re planning to relocate to. Research – there’s a lot of information out there on the internet – i.e. the job market, the average rent prices, the cost of furniture
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or appliances, food, etc. If you are making your exit from the Philippines for your initial entry to Australia, the CFO (Commission on Filipino Overseas) has a mandatory orientation that you need to attend.” ”Do not be tempted by some agencies offering you short cuts in the immigration process. There is no short cut to the Australian immigration process.”
NEW ZEALAND Ella Sison, Auckland Ella Sison moved to New Zealand four years ago to be with her family. Her mom and sister have been based there for the past five years prior to her arrival. “I came
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to New Zealand on tourist visa at first, coming from Dubai, then my mom helped me to enroll in university and get a student visa. I can eventually apply for citizenship after gaining full time employment. The only thing is, it will take five years, so we need to be patient. She shares, “The lifestyle in New Zealand is good compared to Dubai, its simple, laid back and close to nature. It’s ideal for families but maybe quite a challenge for singletons, as there’s not much of nightlife or party scene. Social services and education are good so it’s really an ideal place to raise your kids.”
“My advice to Pinoys who want to migrate to NZ, is that they should prepare for the costs involved. Check the government website for the skills required as that would make their application process faster.”
GERMANY Jenny Altai Self-employed Jenny Altai, whose husband is an EU citizen, moved to Germany from Dubai in January 2007 were they bought rental properties. She shares, “We live in a small quiet town. Living here is less stressful as we are our own bosses. We have German acquaintances but unfortunately, we did not manage to find close friends.”
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pay cash or with electronic card, so paying with credit card is not widely accepted.”
“It is a good place to raise a family with a high standard ‘free of charge’ education and a health care system that gives you access to doctors and treatments without waiting. Safety is also a plus factor especially in the smaller cities or villages where crime rate is very low.”
Jenny notes, “There is always a demand for highly skilled workers but Germany is not attracting a lot of them due to the language issue. Few companies do offer jobs that don’t require German knowledge but the majority, requires basic or even advanced German. If someone is really interested to migrate here, the best way is to find work in bigger cities that doesn’t require German. If not, learn the language and then secure a job before coming here.”
She points out some drawbacks – “English is still not widely spoken though. A lot of the locals tend to assume that if you are a foreigner, then you are either a refugee or receiving social benefits. They also prefer to
She cautions, “The situation here is not like in other countries wherein you apply for a visit visa, and then try your luck. One advantage of working here is the possibility of applying for permanent residence after
five years, then citizenship after 8 years (7 years if you’ve done an integration course).”
Cecile Smago, Germany Dentist Cecille Smago recounts, “My husband Carsten who is German, works for a Telecom company so on his international assignment I was always along. We lived in Vienna, then Brazil, Costa Rica and then back to Germany. We are now here for a total of 10 years. I have two sons, one is born in Brazil and one in Germany and it is because of them that I decided to
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be a full time mother here.” Cecille shares, “There are a lot of good reasons to live in this country. Generally, Germany is clean and organized and education is free in public schools and universities. Best of all, the economy is in good shape compared to neighboring European countries. Another good thing is that every registered individual is required to have health insurance. If you cannot afford it you can go to social welfare and they will help you.” She adds, “The segregation of trash here was completely new for me when we arrived here but after awhile it became a routine. When it comes to food, the groceries here are reasonably priced so if you cook every meal, it’s quite cheap to live here. The only
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downside would be that as a Filipino, we are used to the friendliness and openness of our people and we love to chit chat even for few minutes - whether we are in a bus, in a parlor or market, it doesn’t really matter. But the Germans will take years to warm up.” Some dos and don’ts in Germany – “Carry your residence card or passport at all times. Be punctual and apologize if you are not. Always remember to use the formal pronoun “Sie” when talking to people unless they tell you otherwise. Shake hands all the time - it’s part of their culture. Learn how to properly recycle. Don’t do drugs. Don’t drink and drive as they treat driving under the influence very seriously. Don’t do the Nazi salute as it is considered a criminal offense. Don’t walk in the bicycle lane.”
“If you don’t have family or friends already living here, then you will have a hard time adjusting, especially if you don’t speak basic German and you chose to live in a small town where nobody can understand you. Plan, research and study everything about the company you want to work for and the town or place you will end up living before deciding to move.” “Germany is a beautiful country. The only hindrance is that it hasn’t yet recognized the importance of adopting English as a second language. They still have this notion that you have to speak German if you want to live here. All I can say is that if you are young, highly skilled and willing to learn, then Germany will welcome you with open arms.”
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UNITED KINGDOM Precious Baque, London Precious came to London almost four years ago. At present, she works as a full time Accountant, while doing fashion styling in her free time. “Living in England is like driving in the fastest lane, there are so many things to do in so little time,” she remarks. “I like the openness especially in art/fashion. Inspiration is everywhere - from the landscape, to language, to architecture and to people. I love
their politeness and open-mindedness here. They are not bothered about your uniqueness at all. Government policies are good, and every citizen is protected.” “The only thing I don’t like here is the weather. Believe it or not, it has massive impact on your mood and emotion. Out here where it’s always rainy or gloomy you tend to get homesick a lot.” “If you are interested in moving to the UK, you have to check the government website and see which skills are in demand annually. Keep in mind that England is part of the European Union. A lot of the members of the Union and other neighboring countries also have skilled workers who are interested to work here, so the job market is very competitive. But having good qualifications
can help you settle.” Precious advises, “Be confident emotionally and financially. Your salary may look higher than what you get in Philippines but you have to factor in the cost of living here. You must have enough savings to keep you going and to sustain your needs. You also have to adapt quickly, learn the culture, practice the good and analyze the bad. Eventually you’ll learn and practice both cultures, keep your values intact. Make friends and they will be there for you for life - that will help you feel at home.” She adds, “Be careful of scammers – you have to be alert. It’s a must to know what’s going on around you, from daily news to financial updates. Keep improving your qualifications, education and career. Keep
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learning, do your homework, research and study before making any drastic decision.“
IRELAND Ronald Belzena, Donegal Ronald Belzena moved to Ireland in 2005 in a town northwest of the island called
Letterkenny, County Donegal. He says “I am mostly living a simple and quiet life away from the stresses of the big city.”
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“Irish people are generally friendly. They have the same extended family culture as Filipinos. There are a few things I do not like here, the cost of living is not as cheap, but at least not the most expensive in Europe. The healthcare system is not reliable and it’s hard to get specialists or it would take months before you can consult one. Since Ireland is not a part of the Schengen area, work visa holders are also not allowed to travel around Europe without a Schengen tourist visa.” “The only way to move here is to get a work permit/work visa. Spouse and children can also secure visas tied to the work visa. However, a spouse is not allowed to work unless a separate work visa is granted. After five years of employment, one may apply for citizenship. For now, applications only
require filling up a form with personal and work employment details. There are no examinations in place yet. Processing could take a year to complete and once done, the spouse and children can also apply for it.” Ronald advises, “Be friendly with the locals as they would be well-suited to give you advice about your community. Meet up with the Filipinos. It’s the best way to cure homesickness and they would most likely give a helping hand if needed. Also, make an effort to understand Irish history (Catholics and Protestants troubles), so you understand what could be deemed offensive. Do not be sensitive with remarks from locals, especially when out socially. Irish people love the banter and it only means they are comfortable around you when they say funny remarks about you.”
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“Even though it’s not cheap to live here, try and enjoy as much of the surroundings. Go to scenic places and enjoy hikes, especially since there are no big shopping malls in the countryside. There’s so much to appreciate in this place and you do not have to spend much, even though you may have to get your own car and learn to drive to get around. Ireland is a wonderful place to settle with the family, so it’s worth taking the risk.”
SINGAPORE Ahmed Shawbaki Ahmed moved to Singapore almost four years ago by invitation of his company. “My role takes care of building, developing, maintaining regional/global customer relationship for APAC. If I were to describe my life here in one word, it’ll be - convenient. Getting around is easy. Singapore is quite small, transportation
infrastructure is fantastic, traffic jams – in the Filipino sense – is almost nonexistent. There are as much food centers (hawkers/coffee shops as they call it here) as we have sari-sari stores at home, and everything can be done online - even paying your taxes. Everything here is efficient and organized; in 15 minutes you can register your business online and start operations.” Ahmed also enjoys the safe environment offered by the Lion City, “A friend told me before that you can run alone in a dark street at 3AM in the morning holding/flaunting gold bars in both hands and nothing will happen to you. I would say that that is an accurate, albeit slightly exaggerated, statement about Singapore’s public safety.” “Filipinos who work here, depending on their Visa type and with some exclusions, can eventually apply for permanent
residency and then citizenship here,” he reveals. He cautions, however, “Do your research and be wary of the rules and regulations they have (they have a lot) from traffic to immigration and try not to break any of them. Be mindful of what you say about your host country, especially when it is something negative. That is not to say that one cannot voice out opinions, however, it is rarely what we say, but how we say it. So keep in mind that you are guests, and act accordingly. I go by a rule that I read somewhere and this applies to anything that you say or write. Before speaking or hitting the send button, ask yourself if whatever you’re about to say or write might end up as tomorrow’s headline news.”
THAILAND Gibran Tocao, Bangkok Gibran has been in and out of Bangkok
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since his early teenage years, now he’s helping his family run a perishable goods export business. Gibran shares, “Thailand is known for the food, good vibes, and its full moon parties and red light districts that gather tourists from all over the world. But what I like about Thailand is that it’s relatively safe and cheap to live here. Generally people are very lighthearted, though most of the locals do not understand English.” “For Filipinos, no visa is required. They give you a month for tourism purposes. If you’re a woman and marry a local, citizenship is possible. If you’re a guy, probably wait till you are 60. You can be an English teacher, a nurse or be a staff at a hotel. It will be ASEAN next year so no visa stay restrictions.” Gibran advises, “Do save up money. You can have a pretty decent lifestyle here with cheap food, clothing and accommodations.
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I’ve seen a lot of Pinoys get stuck here because they didn’t manage their money well and eventually they try pawning their passports. Always save.” He adds, “If you have a degree with some units related to education, English teachers have the highest paying jobs here.”
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES April Perez - Dubai April Perez works for Sony Music Middle East, she came to Dubai in March of 2008. “I got hired by Sony Electronics as a Vaio Specialist a few weeks right after I came to Dubai. There are plenty of opportunities in the emirates in general, and although it’s a Muslim country, I like how it is very open and tolerant of other cultures. We have every kind of nationality and religion here, living side by side peacefully.
As long as you don’t bother anyone, you keep a decent job and stick to the rules, you won’t have a problem. There are also so many Filipinos here so you won’t have a hard time adjusting.” She adds, “The heat during the summer is something that takes adjustment though, but you will eventually get used to it. Working with people from different backgrounds i.e Arabs, Indians, Europeans can be a challenge so you need to patient. Otherwise, we all enjoy the tax-free salary!” April advises, “Be careful about your finances. In Dubai it’s very tempting because everywhere you go, there’s always a sale. If you get carried away with your credit card and your finances get out of hand, you will eventually end up with nothing. Be mindful and respectful of the rules, Dubai is a very modern open city, but you got to learn to respect the culture of your host country and remember at the end of the day you are still their guest. Also, be open to opportunities, don’t put limitations on yourself and be open to working your way up. Enjoy the
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many benefits that your host country has to offer.”
PERU Kach Medina - Arequipa Kach Medina used to live and work in Kuwait (4 years), Kurdistan, Iraq (5 months) and Hanoi, Vietnam (7 months), and has now been living in Arequipa, Peruf for the last 7 months. “We arrived as a tourist looking for a great place to live as expats and luckily someone helped us with the relocation and visa issues. We teach English and
recently just started our Yoga and Ayurveda Massage business.” “Peru is known for a lot of tourist destinations but not as a place to live as an expat. Here, we have great options for food, the house rent is relatively cheap and there’s a lot of income generating opportunities. Who wouldn’t love living in Peru?” Kach shares, “It’s on the immigration website that we Filipinos can get 183 days tourist visa on arrival. If you want to volunteer or study Spanish, you can use the same visa but if you decide to work, then you have to process your work visa - your employer should process it for you and while processing it you can remain on a tourist visa for as long as you won’t do illegal stuff like overstaying!”
She continues, “Never overstay. Adapt and be flexible. Learn how to speak Spanish then everything will be alright. This place is beautiful and if you’re looking for a real change in scenery and a different kind of lifestyle or adventure, Peru and Latin America is something to think about. If you need more information on our stay in Peru, check us out at - www. twomonkeystravelgroup.com
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By Quay Evano
By Quay Evano
Filipinos have been widely known as citizens of the world. The Pinoy diaspora dates back to the early 1900s when thousands of Filipinos migrated to the USA and ended up starting generations upon generations of Filipino-Americans. According to AC Nielsen, Filipinos, after the Chinese and the Indians, are the third largest expatriate population scattered around the globe, with 12% of our population outside the homeland. Our kababayans can be found working and living virtually anywhere in the world - on oil tankers and cruise ships in remote oceans from pole to pole; in unforgiving deserts in the Middle East and Africa; in the coldest places in the world, and even in jungles untouched by man in South America. Each person has a different way of adapting and surviving in a new country. Luckily for us Filipinos, the culture that we have grown up with has given us a built-in advantage in terms of being able to more easily integrate within new communities where we choose to reside. Not only are we blessed with familiarity with the English language, even
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our easy-going and mostly open attitude, unlike more conservative expats, certainly helps us adjust to life in a foreign land. Still, sharpening our survival skills will ease the way we can get accustomed and eventually thrive in a new place. Here are some tips that Filipinos could benefit from
when moving to another country.
Research, or even better, visit before you jump. Before deciding to live in a new country, learn as much information as you can, first hand, by visiting the place. In case traveling there before you settle is not
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an option, do your due diligence through research. With the wealth of information that’s available online, these days, it’s very easy to find essential details about various places around the world. Even better - try to get tips from people who actually live there. Sometimes, it could be as simple as asking a relative or friend hundreds of questions. Here, it is better to ask even about the most mundane of things - like what is allowed and what is not, where you can get basic needs, etc. There is nothing more precarious than landing in a country that you know absolutely nothing about. Research and read about your destination. It will do you wonders.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do This old adage is one of the best tips there is. It’s simple, logical and practical. Of course, there will always be some things that people will not be able to do because of medical, religious and other reasons but try to experience ‘being one’ of the citizens of the country to fully understand their culture. Eat what you can and are allowed
to eat whether it’s a shawarma or chicken masala – try to get a taste for local cuisine. Learn the local language or basic greetings and phrases. It’s a sure fire way to break the ice and start a conversation, plus the native speaker would always find it nice that you are speaking their language. Furthermore, learn how to use public transportation. Find out about the metro, bus, train, system or any other local methods of getting you to your destination. This skill is not only important when you’re in Metro Manila, but practically in any city in the world. Doing as the Romans do, simply means learning and respecting the norms and culture of your host country and its people, and becoming one with them, somehow.
Learn the language Develop a liking, if not love, for learning new languages. Living in different parts of the world gives you an opportunity to learn new tongues. Seize this opportunity because even if you don’t end up fluent in the native language of your host country,
just making an effort to speak in the prevalent language will be appreciated by locals. Of course, being able to understand what people around you are talking about certainly helps. You can also bargain more if you know the native language because sales people will think that you’ve been in their country for a long time and they can’t fool you with their prices. You can somehow go around easier if you have, even just a slight grasp of the language. The language of life is learning the language of others. That’s how we start to really understand each other.
Abide by the laws of the country How not to get in trouble? Easy. Know and follow the rules and the laws anywhere you go. In the UAE, follow their modest dress code because it still is a Muslim country despite the prevalent modern lifestyle. The country has zero tolerance for drinking and driving. A man is not allowed to be shirtless in public. These are their just some of the rules people in the country should follow. In Canada, slow down to 30 kph around school zones because that’s one of the driving
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laws. There’s also a strict law on drinking and driving. Wherever in the world you are, know the rules and stick to them. Ignorance is not an excuse.
Network, contact old friends, and make new ones Having lots of contacts and friends will definitely help you in a lot of ways when moving and living abroad. Finding a job or transferring to a better job will be easier with referrals. Contacts can also assist you in finding a good apartment, getting the best deals when buying something, etc. Keeping an active social network can benefit you in so many ways – from settling down to your new life, getting leads at work, to even keeping you socially active. Nowhere are old and new friends more important and essential than when you are away from home. Remember, no man is ever meant to be an island.
Prepare for the weather Do not underestimate the impact of climate and weather on your health and day-today life. Become a pro when it comes to dressing up for the weather. This is essential whether you live in the Philippines where it rains most of the year and you need to carry
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an umbrella or a towel when you go out, or in the UK where as they say you need to factor in all 4 seasons in one day, or in Dubai where cotton clothes are necessary to stay comfortable in the infernal summer heat. Even moreso in Canada with their legendary harsh winters, where people could die outdoors and where you need to learn the art of layering for warmth in order to avoid frostbite or getting sick with the flu or other cold weather-related afflictions.
Use technology to fight homesickness Of course, there will always be no place like home but with technology nowadays, it’s so easy to connect with loved ones back home and even see them while you are talking to them! Fifteen years ago, we were already thrilled at the prospect of chatting with friends and family through the simplistic Yahoo Messenger. But now with Skype, Viber, Line and all other apps and hi-tech phones, talking to people anywhere in the world is so easy and even free of cost. Imagine what it must have been like for expat Filipinos in the 70s through to the 90s who had to rely on snail mail or long distance calls via PLDT phone hubs just to communicate with loved ones. With text, emails, apps and social media, technology has made our world a better place bringing us closer although we are
miles apart. Use it as much as you can.
Save money. Save money. Save money. It might be hard to save money, especially when you are just starting a new life in a new country, while you also need to support loved ones back home. But it pays for us Filipinos abroad to remember the cautionary tales of fellow kababayans who landed in deep debt due to useless and needless spending, after losing their jobs during the recession. Beware the temptation posed by credit cards, especially when you’re itching to buy those latest gadgets that are unnecessary to your life and cost half of your salary. Don’t get any if you can avoid it, and close credit card accounts as soon as you can because in reality, it means ‘utang.’ In fact, it should be called ‘debt card’ because it truly does land you in debt. Stick to necessities and save your hardearned pay, no matter how small you can muster in the beginning, and have a back-up plan. Life is so unpredictable anywhere and there is no such thing as a stable job. Look at the 2008 global financial crisis which, up to now, affects the entire world. Be practical and don’t get in over your head. That’s how you get ahead when living abroad.
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By Nicholo Jallores
To Juan and Maria, You’re not in the barrio anymore. Welcome to the world.
A
whirlwind swept you off your lovely days in the village and plonked you here in the middle of the bizarre landscape that is the life of the struggling expatriate. Yours was a life of
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comfort and predictability in the barrio, but this gnarly province offers no such niceties. You are Frodo from the Shire and this, little sweetling, is Mordor. You will have to shed some of your innocence here, lest you be mistaken as a half-wit and thrown into the pit to be devoured alive by hungry orcs. You are in the land of giants, where everyone walks straighter and taller than you. Brace thyself, lest you be trampled underfoot. Now mind you, it’s not all fire and brimstone. You did not come here as lamb waddles to the slaughter. You are here to push yourself beyond your limits, to test the mettle of your fortitude and find the immensity that
eluded you in your days as just another wily character in your barangay. Greatness awaits, but to get to it you will have to endure a thousand pains and pass through a gauntlet of immense toil and turmoil. You will rise to greater heights, but first, you will be humbled. In your limited and insular vision, you may have thought of yourself a king in your homestead, but here you will have to play the pauper, the court jester, the warrior, or the general. You will have to rebuild your nobility from the ground up, because no one is likely to just hand you your crown. Look to those who came before you, and
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1.) Learn the lay of the land. Wherever your expat journey has taken you, make a commitment to learning everything that you can about your host nation. Study its laws so you would not have to depend on your ignorance to save you from sticky situations. Study its culture and history as to have a deeper understanding of its people’s quirks and ideologies. Study its geography so you would not have to keep asking others for directions. If you can, study its language – at least well enough to order a steak and not end up being served a bowl of entrails. When you know better, you do better. Do not be a stranger to the land that has the wherewithal to nurture and embolden you.
2.) Think big. And then think bigger. The quickest way to cripple your growth in a foreign land is to operate under the myopic assumption that you have less opportunities than other nationalities, or that your humble origins somehow impede you from achieving anything truly grand and awe-inspiring. This is the residual indio in you. Whilst it is generally wise to be aware of the stereotypes that you have to plow through on your way to greatness, you would fare better with the mindset of a conqueror, boldly believing that the world is willing to spread its legs wide open for you. You have to make the decision to be bigger than you have ever been. see where their journey in these lands has led them. Some have obviously triumphed, while others continue to stumble. Every story is unique. There is no one definitive path towards greatness, but there are certain practical truths acquired through experience by those who were able to adapt, survive, and thrive in this strange alien territory. You will do well to heed their guidance. Out of our concern for you, we have gathered and distilled their wisdom in this one comprehensive communiqué. Think of it as a survival guide. Trust us, Frodo. You will need it.
3.) Don’t just work here. Live here. That subtle and seemingly innocuous change in verb spells all the difference between being stuck in a dark pit of working class misery and having an earnestly rewarding life abroad. You are not a mere slave that was shipped off to another land to engage in donkeywork. You are here to live, sweetling. So live. Expand your network of friends and allies. Get a better accommodation. Invest your money wisely. Even if you have a clear timeline in mind, assume that you are here for the long haul.
Don’t defer your life for when you go back home. Build your life here, now. Shift your attitude towards that of fulfillment, and not just utility. Be present.
4.) Expand your palate. We are what we eat. This concept probably eludes you now, because you are on survivalist mode, and the sole function of food for you is simply to stave off hunger: think lembas bread, from Lothlorien. Sure you can eat whatever you want, and no one should force you to push strange and unfamiliar things down your gullet. But think about this for a second: you’ve been eating the same kind of food your entire life. Don’t you think it’s about time to try something different? This is not just about eating; this is about the willingness to accept the fact that there is more to the world than the tastes and smells of your barrio. When you expand your palate, you expand your intellectual territory. You are not expected to like everything, but it sure wouldn’t hurt to give everything a try.
5.) Make meaningful connections Try as you might, you cannot make it on your own, Frodo. The way is dark and full of terrors. You cannot hope to traverse this unforgiving landscape alone. You need a Samwise. You need someone whose dreams and aspirations have the same depth and resonance as yours. You need someone to brace you when you weaken, because you will weaken. Do not be so foolish as to overestimate your resolve. You need someone with whom to share the load. What you do not need are stragglers, emotional vampires, and fair-weather friends who are only there for the good times. You do not need a Gollum who would covet your light and try to steal things that are precious to you. These damnable creatures are excess baggage. Feel free to throw them off the next available cliff. Take your time to build genuine connections with like-spirited individuals who can aid you and make your journey seem less ruinous. You
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FEATURE do not need an entire village of sycophants. If you manage to find just one true friend, count your blessings. Be strong. The Black Gates of Mordor looms large in your weary mind and vexes your nervous heart, but now is not the time to cower to the dirt. Steel yourself. Trust that you have inside of you everything that you need to live a bountiful life. You’ve taken the first step towards the path of greatness. Now all you need to do is to keep putting one foot in front of the other. The journey may not always be merry, but it will be fulfilling. Stand tall, sweetling. All of Middle Earth is watching. With love and well wishes, The Council of Illustrado
Every country has its own flair and working abroad/living abroad requires local knowledge. It may sound like I’m asking you to do and mirror what they do all the time, absolutely not. A wise person knows what’s not to follow. Conform to reform is my own phrase to reflect how I manage to work and live in different societies. You have to reform yourself. You can’t be a stuck up Filipino all your life - you have to reform your ways. Pick up a new language, eat what the locals eat, network in a new country, learn a new sport, dance to their tunes, study their history and learn in the process. We will surely stand out by being a fast learner, hardworking and efficient but if we add adaptability and conformity, it really adds a spice of good breeding. It’s synonymous to open-mindedness and respect. You don’t lose your being Filipino by conforming to other culture - in fact, you add another cap to your feather by being one true and respectable global citizen.
WORD TO THE WISE Heed the advice of those who have found true triumph in their journey. Philippine Business Council of Abu Dhabi board member Agnes Pedrosa Marelid, Jacksonville, Florida Complex Tax Law Specialist Liza Julao, and former Dubaibased, now Brisbane resident Boyet Damot share valuable insights for first time Filipino expats.
Abu Dhabi, UAE Conform to reform. In that sense, we need to adapt to how society works in the new country. Just as the definition of conform states: (of a person) behave according to socially acceptable conventions or standards. Personally, conformity can be seen as adapting to work ethic, way of dressing, way of life, observance of cultural traditions and respect for religion.
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LIZA JULAO Jacksonville, Florida
BOYET DAMOT Brisbane, Australia
AGNES PEDROSA MARELID
Learn about your host country/city and its people. Explore. Developing a global perspective is not restricted to the workplace but also involve everyday personal experiences outside the office. In my case, I can honestly say that having lived in the United Arab Emirates, an Islamic country, gave me a better appreciation of the Muslim faith and culture. The key traits and ingredients for shaping a world-class mindset is the capacity for tolerance and sensitivity to other peoples’ beliefs and traditions.
Always keep in mind why you decided to work abroad. Let us be honest here. Most Pinoys don’t dream of an overseas job for the fun of it. It’s all about the money. However, having a financial target is not enough. There must be a purpose behind the money goal! Be it a dream house, quality education for your kids or siblings, financial assistance to parents, or seed money to be your own boss one day. Whatever it is the “why” is what keeps you motivated when the homesickness bug bites. Be a world-class Pinoy. Take the opportunity of working and living overseas to further grow professionally and develop a worldclass mindset. Don’t be afraid of working in a multicultural office for the first time embrace it. The experience coupled with a good learning attitude will pay off later.
For those who are leaving the Philippines for the first time, do not lose who you are. People will try to control you to serve their purpose. Don’t let them. Capitalize on your individual talents and learn another language or more languages for that matter. Make a list of what you are bringing to the table - to your employer, fellow employees, groups you are interested in joining, etc. Be prepared for the worse, but expect the best of any situation. Always be ready for battle. Life is series of small and big battles. At the end of the day, make a list of all you accomplished, whether big or small. It will tide you in your next battle. Filipinos are people-oriented and that’s great. Be happy with yourself and stop being overly critical of yourself. You are your best friend that will stay with you in good times or bad times. Make a list of what’s important to you. It is personal. And it’s none of anyone’s business. Carry yourself with dignity and pride. Do not let anyone steal it from you. Finally, take care of yourself, for others. People you love, people you care and for your fellow Filipinos. Each of us represents the group - our kababayans.
FEATURE
By Excel V. Dyquiangco
Technology has opened doors of opportunities. Education, for instance, has taken on a global scale with students learning the ropes while in the comforts of their own homes. Agricultural processes can also be automated nowadays while medical discoveries become rapid and quick, thanks to computers and machines that aid in the research and findings of certain illnesses. And for those who want to earn more income and want to become self-employed, technology has been the great facilitator for opportunities and ease of operating – anytime, anywhere. The publisher of Gary Shapiro’s book, “The Comeback: How Innovation Will Restore the American Dream” said in its website that these technological advances and innovation can help create new jobs, and bring about industries and markets that were never there before. This 2015 you might want to look beyond the typical nine-to-five jobs, depending of course on your skills and your passion.
Here are some new types of businesses that technology has made possible and allows people to work whenever and wherever they may be.
The IT Industry The IT industry or the Information Technology industry is a vast and a varied sector. This involves a host of working professionals such as desktop engineers, system analysts and administrators, network security consultant, Chief Information Officer, LAN and Wan Engineers, among others. While many have
gone on to work for companies, these days there are those who do their jobs while wearing their pajamas – at home. According to a data by Emergent Research, a research and consulting firm based in California, United States, 18% of all IT professionals are already independent – and they are growing at a calculated rate year after year. The rise can be attributed to these IT professionals being pulled at a moment’s notice. “In today’s world, change is happening so quickly that everyone is trying to figure out how to be more flexible and agile, cut fixed costs and move to variable costs,” says Emergent’s Steve King.
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FEATURE
“And for those want to earn more income and want to become self-employed, technology has been the great facilitator for opportunities and ease of operating – anytime, anywhere”. The Virtual Assistant Business Having a virtual assistant business entails a lot of hard work. Sure they get to work from home but at the onset, offering different services to clients worldwide can take as much as 14 to 18 hours of your time each day which means you have to get up and stay awake at unusual times. These involve clerical work or secretarial services such as accounting and bookkeeping, IT support, graphic and web design to marketing services. Business coach Carole Nicolaides has helped countless virtual assistants match business sound planning with their talents. “Enthusiasm for your work propels you to rise early, work weird hours, and can even make you feel a tinge of guilt for getting paid for doing something you enjoy so much,” she says.
The Personal Shopper Who wouldn’t want to shop and get paid in the process? Maggie McQuown says
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she has viewed this kind of business as entertainment. “It’s just something I’ve always been good at - color, shopping, putting things together and knowing what someone else will like, what they can wear and what will make them look good and feel good,” she says. As a personal shopper, part of the responsibilities includes an interview that establishes the needs of the client, and other personal preferences when it comes to style and color. Next involves the ability of the consultant to suggest brands, wardrobe issues and others. The consultant may – or may not - even bring the client on a shopping journey. Tag Goulet, who owns a career-information service in Canada says, “It’s a feel-good job. There are careers out there that people don’t feel good about. But if you’re a personal shopper, you get to create something wonderful for other people and make them happy while using your talents and doing something that makes you feel happy.”
The Graphic Design Business Those who are into the creative and the arts can feel right at home when putting up their own graphic design business. Out of their own personal space and time, they can design websites, brochures and flyers, mail order catalogs, letterheads and product packaging for other companies who want to market and advertise their services. All they need is their computers, tone-quality printer, scanner, a fax machine (when necessary) and the software that they use. Blogger John Brook says that it’s important to have quality work. “Networking groups can be a source of clients, but the quality of work will retain customers over time,” he says.
Web Content Writing From writing to proofreading to editing, clients are in dire need of people to write and to check the content on their websites and other such communication platforms. You can write or edit any of the following:
FEATURE press releases, product information, annual reports, mail order catalogs, major proposals, marketing materials, among others. In some cases, you get to attend events of these companies so that you can network as well which means more clients and customers. As an added bonus, when attending these events you can also receive freebies and different items of value. The best thing about having a web content writing business is that aside from working from home, you are paid while enjoying your passion. And by word of mouth, you also get to have more clients when they see that your work is of good quality. All it takes to be in this business is, just like others, a little bit of hard work, perseverance and creativity.
The Seller You can sell just about anything online nowadays – especially with different social networking sites on the rise. From handbags to used clothes and toys, to make-up kits and books to hand-me downs, all it takes is a little bit of ingenuity, grace and resourcefulness to make your products stand out from the rest. If you can bake or cook something unique and different to the taste, you can also sell your finished goods online. If you have the contacts, you can also order products overseas and sell them on your website or your fan page. Sales expert Perry Marshall says that there are three steps to selling anything: traffic, conversion and economics. “If you can make the process profitable then it goes around and around and your company grows bigger,” he says.
Sources: http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/71516 http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/75238 http://www.graphicdesignblender.com/ starting-your-own-design-business http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/234780 http://smallbiztrends.com/2014/07/fun-selfemployed-jobs.html
Technology has made it possible for these businesses to thrive. Here are just a few examples of people who took the risk to evolve from their nine-to-five existence into a more flexible contemporary work style. Going Creative She considers her freelance experience exciting but scary. “It wasn’t a regular thing so there would be some weeks when I had no work and no income,” freelance graphic designer Rocilyn Laccay recalls. “But it probably took me around two to three years to get regular clients. Fast forward years later, I have learned to adjust to different sets of people and not to take it personally when they don’t love my work. “ Having started with just one client (Instituto Cervantes), by word of mouth and referrals, she has garnered a following. Because she only works online, she hasn’t met most of her clients yet as they usually correspond via cyberspace – and that is a good thing. “I can work anytime and anywhere I like as long as there is internet connection.” She adds that the benefits of being her own boss include spending a lot of time with her kids since she can work at home and can take a vacation anytime. Another advantage is she doesn’t have to get stuck in traffic for meetings since she just meets most of her clients through Skype or any other online means. The Sweet Life Actress and TV host Bettina Carlos knows desserts. Her brainchild, Baked Bites by ABC, started out of her drive, fervor and determination to succeed in life. “Baking was my strength and passion,” she says. “Back then I could only do baking. I couldn’t cook, couldn’t even fry eggs properly or make pancakes without burning them - or burning my fingers. Even I was surprised that I could bake.” The orders came pouring in come December when she first started her venture. Since then, her Nutella Rocks has become one of her bestsellers, thanks to word of mouth
and the power of social networking. “We are very blessed and privileged to be living at this digital age where social media is very powerful and useful in voicing out our thoughts, pursuing our ideas and even selling items - brand-new, pre-loved or manufactured. Because of this we can easily advertise our products for free. What a big cut on marketing cost!” Her advice to budding online entrepreneurs: “Pray for a business you can happily work on. More than making money out of something you are passionate about, you also want God to bless your business as well as the work of your hands. Ask for His leading and blessing.” Outsourcing Services Michelle Velarde has decided to work online to take care of her family better. As CEO of yourvirtualworkers.com, a company based in the Philippines that provide outsourcing needs and services to clients around the world, she finds ways to make the company more productive by providing effective methods in its business operations and is responsible for hiring employees inside the organization as well as supervising and evaluating employees and their job performance, among other things. “For the first few weeks of my work, I was faced with the lack of financial capital to purchase new tools and the problem with the staff going directly to their assigned clients,” she says. “Fortunately, I was able to get more capital as I partnered with an American businessman and I have implemented NCDA to all staff prior to starting.” This is her advice to those who want to start their own business right at home, “Invest in money and knowledge by equipping yourself with the necessary training first such as VA101, setting up your portfolio, Special Tools, and others. Once you’re ready, you can try applying to different freelancing sites such as: odesk, myoutdesk, elancers, etc. But just remember, though, work from home job sites are not supposed to ask for any fees.”
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FEATURE
By Anna de Leon
“I will lose weight, I will save money.” “I will do this … I will do that…” The lists of resolutions, as well as, possibilities are endless once the New Year rolls in. But no, we won’t tell you to hit the gym six days a week to lose the pounds gained from eating lechon and leche flan, or start-up a savings plan – the one that you’ve been postponing for the last three years. Instead, we share basic tips that could be the foundation of your best year yet. The New Year gives you 365 days of new chances and possibilities to better and reinvent yourself, but sometimes unnecessary baggage – i.e. people (yes, they exist), objects and feelings, hinder these personal improvement plans. Often, we tend to overlook these basic things that need our attention. But to properly see the great opportunities that are mostly just right under our noses, one must, first and foremost, de-clutter. Mind you, the concept is not exclusive to your material possessions. It applies to almost everything in your life.
One of the most common places where we find clutter is, no, not in our houses, but in our Facebook accounts!
Spring clean your social media account.
Look inside your closet, if you haven’t worn that top in the last six months, give it away. If it doesn’t fit now, it will not fit in the next
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Delete, unfriend, unfollow those people who post nothing but complaints or those who simply just annoy you. If you haven’t spoken or interacted with this FB contact in the last 6 month, unfriend them. What is the point?
Don’t follow Rose’s advice and “Let it go!”
two weeks. I am not saying that you will not lose weight, but some of us do suffer from separation anxiety with objects – just like “I can’t throw this candy wrapper away because he gave it to me on our first date.” Memories are kept in our brains and hearts and not in inanimate objects. So, “Let it go!”
Ditch last season’s baggage and we don’t mean the Fendi Tojour Empty your heart of hatred, jealousy and any vicious feelings that will make the Evil Queen or Bella Flores blush. It feels heavy. And besides, who wants to keep that along with the pounds gained from the holiday season?
FEATURE
It is easier said than done, but honey, these feelings were incurred last year, alongside with the launch of the Valentino Rock Stud pumps, which makes it so last season. Hanging on to these is simply tragic, like wearing acid wash jeans with your high-cut Reeboks - a fashion and life faux pas.
Junk food out of sight – out of mind Kate Moss once said, “Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.” I bet she has never tasted Nutella because she doesn’t have it in her pantry now or before her pantsdropping stint with Calvin Klein back in the early 90’s with Marky Mark. Do you seriously want to lose that weight that you have been trying to lose for the last three years? De-clutter your pantry! Eighty percent of your weight loss success lies in what you put in your tummy. You cannot out train a bad diet. Period. Get rid of crisps and cookies at home, which you will most likely reach for at
12mn. Cutting back even if it is just ¼ cup of rice from your usual 1 cup is better than eliminating it, and going back to it after you realize that you and kanin are just inseparable. The first few items may seem funny and downright superficial but these basics could work wonders if seriously applied to your life. Remember, starting out with a clean slate is as important as having the right plan to move forward. Of course, after all that de-cluttering and emptying those aspects of your life that were holding you back, you now have to fillup on the good stuff. Now that you have eliminated toxic and negative people, fill your life with friends who will really have your best interest at heart. Who will be with you in good and bad times, and who will really be happy for your good fortune. Start each day, not on your phone checking FB or IG, but with a prayer of thanks to Him for what you already have. It sounds like a
cliché but looking at your cup as being half full and not half empty has a huge impact not only on your heart, but also on your mind and body, as well. Now that you start your day with a smile and a positive outlook, it is time to stretch those muscles and sweat. You don’t have to work out for an hour if you don’t have time in the morning, but a little stretching, even for just 10 minutes will make a huge difference. We have all been told about how important breakfast is. Never skip it. What you have in the morning determines how you will function and eat for the rest of the day. Steer clear of insulin-spiking breakfast items like croissants which are filled with sugars. Instead, try starting your day with a healthy and satisfying smoothie. So you see? Life is simple, really. The key is to de-clutter. It will give you so much clarity. Once your slate is clean, fill it up with all things good and you are guaranteed that 2015 will be your best year yet.
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SPIRITUALITY
By BO SANCHEZ
It’s January 2015! If you haven’t done it yet, write your New Year’s resolution now. Many have given up making New Year’s resolutions because they fail to fulfill them. I have a formula for fulfilling a New Year resolution. Note, I said resolution — not resolutions. Yes, just one. Easy. Choose one habit that you’d like to develop for the next 30 days. Dream big but start small. Think of doing this new behavior for 30 days only. That way, it seems more doable. If you miss doing it in one day, here’s the rule: go back to Day 1 — and start all over again. You don’t want to do that, right? That will be enough reason to keep the habit going every day. I repeat: you have to do it daily. Not three or four times a week. This is crucial. If it’s an activity that can’t be done daily, then try to choose an “alternate” activity that you can do at the same time. If you hit the gym
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every 5PM to 6PM on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays — why not read a book, or take a walk, or swim a few laps at that same time on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday? That way, it will still be a daily experience. Last recommendation: don’t just say, “I’m going to walk daily.” It’ll be more powerful to say, “I’m going to walk at 6AM daily.” Set a specific time. Or if you’ve decided to make 20 sales calls a day, peg it at a particular hour of the day. Making this small tweak will quadruple your chances of sticking to the habit and making a lifestyle-change in your life.
Overhaul Your Life There are four steps to overhaul your life: 1.) Purpose: Identify Your Why of Success 2.) Plan: Success Is Not an Act But a Habit
3.) Practice: Catch Small Fish Before Big Fish 4.) Produce: Never Stop Growing I will be talking about these four steps in the Feast, the Sunday prayer gathering that I lead at the Philippine International Convention Center. As my New Year gift to Illustrado readers, here are advance glimpses of the talks.
Success is not an act but a habit Haven’t you noticed? Some people are always broke. Some people are always late. Some people are always making money. Some people are always on time. Some people always create happiness wherever they go. Some people always create trouble wherever they go. Some people always achieve their dreams. Some people never achieve their dreams.
SPIRITUALITY
Why? Habits. Life is really all about habits. Ask yourself what kind of habits do you have?
when life is static.
Catch small fish before big fish
There’s no such thing as being stagnant in life. In my mind, stagnant means going backward. Because life is moving forward and you’re being left behind.
Do you want to succeed in life? Then take the journey of success. This journey follows two phases. In phase one, you catch small fish. In phase two, you catch big fish. It’s really very simple. You don’t try to catch big fish if you still haven’t perfected the skill of catching small fish. Some people try to move to phase two without perfecting phase one. That’s a recipe for disaster. If you do, you’ll get discouraged and some people don’t try again after that. They get depressed and give up. Here’s the key: To catch small fish, you need humility.
So here’s the deal that’s being presented to you every day of your life: If you stop growing, you start dying.
Here’s another illustration. If you’re not climbing up the mountain of self-growth, then you’re sliding down that mountain. You can’t stay put. Why? Because this mountain keeps on growing bigger - with or without you. Each day, you’re presented with a choice. Will you climb or will you slide? I’ve got good news for you: God has given you the power to grow. Use that power. Commit to never-ending growth.
Are you successful? Never stop growing
Success is a constant balancing act.
Life is always changing. There’s not a point
There are days when I’m so stressed
because I’ve put too much stuff on my plate. So I pull back. When I feel stressed, I close my eyes and inhale God’s Love. And in that inner silence, I remind myself, “God is with me. Why rush?” Instantly, I feel peace flooding my soul. But there are days when I feel the total opposite: I’m too comfortable. And I need to be nudged by life to stretch more in a particular area in my life. For example, when I’m too comfortable in my family life, coasting along because my family is “Ok,” God whispers to my heart, “Be more deliberate in re-connecting with your wife and kids…” So I call and invite someone for a date. It happens in my businesses or ministries, too. When everything is doing well, I tend to coast. And that’s dangerous. Where are you today in this balancing act of success? Know yourself. Know where you are. And achieve balance.
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MONEY
The spirit of financial planning by francisco J. colayco
W
We are often asked questions on investment options. There’s nothing really wrong with the question. But with many options available, it’s hard to choose the right one. So what is it that really determines choosing the best one? The answer is simply to know your financial objective. Your financial objectives revolve around three things: Purpose, Target, and Time. Purpose is the reason for investing. Target is the desired amount to reach. And time is the period you have to achieve your target.
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Knowing your financial objective helps choose the best financial instrument. However, at the heart of proper financial planning lies a spiritual essence that many ought to discover. Religious or not, one must realize that money is also a spiritual matter to be dealt with. Knowing the spiritual aspects of financial planning will help you realize its importance more profoundly.
Separation from money When we do financial planning, we are actually separating ourselves from money. Most people will find this absurd. But to separate means not desiring money for its own sake.
When planning financially, you are telling yourself not to seek money for itself. Seeking money for its sake can corrupt the human soul. Money is a powerful ally to wealth but it can distort you when not handled properly.
Purpose-driven money The second spiritual aspect of financial planning is making your money purposedriven. Once you have self-mastery over your need of money, it should be clear why you need it. Any financial endeavor without a clear purpose can be likened to blind spending. Money with a clear and noble purpose can
MONEY
“ Religious or not, one must realize that money is also a spiritual matter to be dealt with. Knowing the spiritual aspects of financial planning will help you realize its importance more profoundly”. help achieve the ultimate end of human life. Humanity only has one particular calling: to live an authentic life in accordance with the divine will. To “be fertile and multiply” not only implies an increase in physical number. Being created in the image and likeness of God, you are expected to live up to it. You must continuously develop yourself to live up to your first true calling. When you do financial planning, you make your money help you become a wellrounded person. The same expectation applies when you use your money to help people around you.
The impermanence and giftedness of money Lastly, financial planning reminds you of money’s impermanence and giftedness. Like everything else, money is temporary. It will eventually decay regardless of the physical protection it offers.
Nevertheless, money is also a gift. It may be a man-made invention to purchase goods, but it is essential in daily living. In addition, many people have difficulty earning money. The fact that you are able to obtain it legitimately makes you realize its importance in life. You are given opportunities to earn and grow it so that you can utilize it better.
is not permanent, it’s important to know how it should be used. It must never be treated as your god! At the same time, you become obligated to grow it. You are responsible to grow your God-given gifts and to live authentically. Money, at its innermost essence, is God-given. You are given legitimate opportunities to earn and grow it.
Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, gives a wonderful insight regarding the giftedness of all created things:
To see with new eyes
All the things in this world are gifts of God, presented to us so that we can know God more easily and make a return of love more readily. As a result, we appreciate and use all these gifts of God insofar as they help us develop as loving persons. But if any of these gifts become the center of our lives, they displace God and so hinder our growth toward our goal. - Ignatian Spirituality Institute Financial planning helps you value your money in a proper way. Because money
Planning is a vital aspect in any endeavor that you take. It’s not just about making everything clear and specific; it also involves continuous reminders to the important aspects of life. This is what financial planning does. It may look like a dull and boring process, but the challenge is to look at it with new eyes. There’s much more to financial planning than what meets the eye. In knowing its spiritual aspects, you empower yourself further to reach your true wealth.
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LAW
Credit Cards and Loans: Your rights and responsibilities ATTY. BARNEY ALMAZAR
Did you know that banks are not allowed to take blank cheques as a condition for your loan approval? This is provided for under Article 15 (b) of the UAE Central Bank Regulations No 29/2011 regarding bank loans and services offered to individual customers. Learn about the regulations of the UAE Central Bank pertaining to credit cards, personal loans, top-up loans, car loans and overdraft facilities, as well as the rights and responsibilities of banks and their customers.
Credit Cards Article 5 (a) of the Regulations defines credit cards as plastic cards linked to an electronic network, containing details and credit limit of the card holder. Value of a customer’s purchases and cash withdrawals are paid on his behalf by the issuing bank or the finance company, and the customer pays the value at the beginning of the month following the transactions’ month, or by installments as per agreement with the issuing bank or
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finance company, after end of the period allowed for full payment of the balance. Banks and finance companies issuing such cards must abide by the following: Provide these cards to persons whose annual income equal or exceeds AED60,000. These cards may be provided against a pledged deposit of value not less than AED60,000. Banks or finance companies should provide their credit card customers with a monthly statement of expenses, showing values of purchases and cash withdrawals, and they should immediately investigate if a customer challenges any expense item.
Personal Loan Article 2 (a) of the Regulations defines personal loan as a loan that is given to individual customers, where repayments are made out of salary and end of service indemnity and/or any other verifiable regular income from a well-defined source. In order to ensure that the monthly installments deducted for repayment of this loan and resulting interest are kept in a reasonable proportion to the customer’s income, the deductions from his salary and/ or regular income must not exceed 50% of his gross salary and any regular income from a defined and specific source at any time. The amount of the personal consumer
LAW
loan has been set at 20 times the salary or the total income of the borrower and banks must make sure that this limit is not exceeded. The repayment period for this loan must not exceed 48 months.
Car Loan
All banks and finance companies must declare their respective interest rates on loans, overdraft balances (in case of banks only), and balances due for credit cards within the table. The rate shall be determined on basis of the reducing balance of the loan on annual basis.
This is a loan extended by the bank or finance company to its customer for the purpose of purchasing a private car. A car loan shall be treated as separate from the personal consumer loan, and should not exceed 80% of the value of the financed vehicle.
Deduction of a ratio of the loan in advance, as the payable interest amount is prohibited, the formula mentioned above should be used to calculate the first interest amount, and then interest amount shall be calculated on the reducing balance of the loan by using the following simple equation:
The maximum period for repayment of the loan shall be 60 months. This loan should be secured by a mortgage over the car.
Top-Up Loan An additional loan obtained by the borrower from the lending bank or finance company, prior to full repayment of the outstanding loan.
Overdraft Facilities Facilities linked to a customer’s account, and are provided by banks for payment on his behalf, in advance are known as overdraft facilities. This usually results in a negative balance in the customer’s account, which would require deposit of funds to cover that balance plus resulting interest and deductions. To obtain such facilities, there should be prearrangements between the customer and the bank. The customer must submit his application, which shows the purpose of the facilities, the expected repayment period and the sources of repayment.
Computation of Interest Each bank or finance company must calculate the interest rate charged in accordance with the following formula pursuant to Article 6 (a):
Interest Amount = Loan Balance at the beginning of the month × Interest Rate 12 × 100 Banks and finance companies must arrive at the Interest Amount and deduct it from the agreed monthly installment, then use the net amount to reduce the loan balance and reach “the new balance of the loan at the beginning of the month” which would, in turn, be used in the calculation process at the end of the following month. With regard to calculation of interest amount on credit cards due balances, these shall only be calculated for the outstanding balance after the maturity date for its full payment; i.e., in the month following the month on which the purchases and withdrawals have occurred. Interest amount must then be calculated as per Article 6 (a) of the Regulations. A bank or a finance company shall determine the penalty rate in the event of full or partial prepayment before maturity date, or in case of a top- up loan, however, a top- up loan, should not be granted unless the original loan was repaid, without default, for a period not less than one year.
Repayment Installments Principal x Interest Rate x Loan Period (in months) +1 2 x 100 x 12
Deductions from salary or regular income of any borrower, for all types of loans extended by banks and finance companies together, including, but not necessarily restricted to,
car loans, overdraft facilities, and credit cards facilities, must not exceed 50% of his gross salary and any regular income from a defined and specific source at any time. Should a loan or a banking facility’s repayment period extends to the retirement age, banks and finance companies must schedule reduction of these loans or facilities in such way as to allow deduction of only 30% of the income (or pension salary). Banks and finance companies may only take from the customer the number of postdated cheques covering the installments, and of value not exceeding 120% of value of the loan or the debit balance.
Terms and Conditions Article 12 of the Regulations provide that the terms and conditions for granting personal loans, car loans, overdraft facilities and facilities for covering unpaid credit card balances must be included in standard applications, drafted in both Arabic and English and written in an easily readable font, and in accordance with texts drafted and approved by the Emirates Banks Association. Banks or finance companies are not allowed to alter or vary terms and conditions for granting the loan or the facility during the tenor of the loan or the facility, unless agreed to in writing by the borrower. In case of changes to the commissions or fees, customers must be notified, at least, two months prior to implementation of such changes. Banks and finance companies are prohibited from taking blank cheques for granting loans or overdraft facilities, or for issuing credit cards pursuant to Article 15 (b) of the Regulations. The provisions of the Regulations are not applicable to investment banks or merchant banks, nor to finance or investment companies, since these institutions are not authorized to provide personal loans or retail banking services. Moneychangers, however, shall only be subject to the provisions regarding bank transfers and exchange of currency.
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IT’S WHAT I DO
It’s what I do
FILIPINO PROGRESS AND DIVERSITY AT THE WORK PLACE
Mary Grace CanlasSantos Team Head (Social Media) - Dnata Customer Care Center (Emirates Group) Dubai My job I was only 22 years old when I came to the UAE to work in Emirates Group. I was hired in the Philippines after enduring a long queue of hopeful Filipinos who couldn’t wait for the opportunity to work abroad. I got lucky enough to be selected with my work experience being nonetheless limited to admin, and HR positions. I started as a Reservations and Sales Agent, and managed to receive 3 promotions during my 7- year tenure in the company. I managed to work my way up to being the Team Head of the Social Media account of our client which is a well-recognized government authority in the UAE. In my years of stay in the company and having held different positions (reservations and ticketing agent, holidays specialist, supervisor for customer care, and now team head for Social Media Account), I have been blessed to experience dealing with various types of customers, interacting with my colleagues from different levels of the organization,
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travelling to other countries for familiarization trips, developing my skills and competencies, discovering my inner potential and, of course, finally deciding that I have found the work that I love to do . I take great pride in being able to represent our Filipino workforce in a foreign land where our excellence is recognized. From 2008 till date, I have received a total of 14 awards in recognition for my work, and several projects that I have handled throughout the years. Being a part of the Social media team is very exciting. It is fun and at the same time very challenging. In my work, I get to showcase my creativity, leadership, and process management skills; I have successfully set up the entire social media team, and streamlined all processes and workflows which are now being utilized by our operations.
My work day On a daily basis, my responsibilities include overseeing the operations; monitoring social media accounts, live chat and email services for our clients; ensuring that we meet our service levels with the highest standards of quality; monitoring and managing all social media reports using Radian 6 as our analysis tool; conducting reviews and presenting my recommendations to our clients. Although my hands are full throughout the week, I still manage to schedule enough time with my family. My Fridays, and Saturdays are merely spent with my bonding activities with my husband who also works here, and talking with my family through Skype. I am the breadwinner in our family ever since my dad had a mild stroke in 2009, but I never felt the weight of my responsibilities ever since someone taught me how to pray properly. I was told not to feel bad about my un-answered prayers. And so my prayer has since then changed to this “Dear Lord if you can’t make things better, please give me the strength to help me withstand whatever I am going through right now” From then, my outlook in life has changed, and I became more optimistic. The same went on with my success in my career. I think ‘Filipinos, being family oriented’ is an understatement. For us, no distance is too far for us not to share funny stories with each other. We always find time to laugh at just about anything, even in the midst of any adversity.
My message to Filipinos across the globe I honestly don’t think that I have achieved enough to inspire my fellow countrymen, but it’s actually the other way around. I am the one who continuously gets inspired by how our ‘kababayans’ work hard and make do with what little they get out of their long hours of work. It makes me reflect on my humble beginnings in the UAE during the time of the recession when our only hope was to keep our jobs. It was the toughest times and yet we all have survived. I thank God, my family, the UAE, and my country for keeping us all intact. With that, I leave you my most useful learning in life summed up into this, “when
your boat is sinking, do not change your course. Instead find something from the boat which can help you swim towards the same direction.”
IT’S WHAT I DO
Joseph Francis Bihag Executive Creative Director – Y & R LabStore Dubai
My job My colleagues know me as Jobi and I’m the Executive Creative Director of Y&R LabStore - part of Y&R Dubai. Y&R (Young & Rubicam) is one of the largest advertising networks in the world with more than 186 offices in 90 countries. We have been around for more than 90 years now. Through the years I have handled clients such as Land Rover, Kit-Kat, Coca-Cola, Colgate-Palmolive, 3M, Harvey Nichols, La Senza, Virgin Atlantic, Gulf News, and American Garden amongst others. Winning awards for them across every advertising discipline from Digital, Design, Direct, Shopper Marketing to Integrated Advertising. My works has been honored at Andy, Cannes Lions, D&AD, One Show, Clio, London International Advertising Awards, New York Festivals, Adfest, Epica, Effie, Dubai Lynx, Cresta, Webby, Graphis and Wolda. I was also part of the team responsible for Y&R Dubai winning the Agency of the Year three times in a row at Dubai Lynx. Most recently, I have been tasked with running Y&R LabStore, Y&R’s new Retail & Shopper Marketing arm. Y&R LabStore will complement Y&R’s holistic communication offering by strengthening their presence in all retail environments. In my free time, I serve as an Advisory Board Member of the Department of Visual Communication at the American University of Dubai and occasionally lecture at the top three Visual Communication schools in the UAE - American University of Sharjah, Zayed University and the American University of Dubai.
It’s what I do
FILIPINO PROGRESS AND DIVERSITY AT THE WORK PLACE
be on the cutting edge in what we do to be able to stay on top of the game.
I’m happily married with two lovely boys and we love spending weekends together with our three rescued dogs
Part of the beauty of working here in Dubai is having the pleasure of working with different nationalities. This is so true for us as at any given time, there’s at least 5-10 nationalities working on the same project. At one point, we were like the United Nations – having 20 nationalities working in the same company. This diversity brings in a multitude of insights, experiences and ideas to the table. We get to tackle the client brief from multiple angles and come up with ideas we are all proud of.
My work day
My message to Filipinos around the globe
A typical day starts meeting my team to discuss jobs in the pipeline. I am mostly in and out of meetings all throughout the day as I review each concept and make sure that the work is up to agency standards. Somewhere along the day I get pulled into client meetings. And when projects get approved and executed, we need to be on ground to make sure it goes as planned, whether it happens in Dubai or somewhere else around the globe. With my time mostly occupied managing my teams, I make sure that I allocate at least two hours per day combing through the internet and keeping up with what’s happening in the industry. This is so important that I make sure my team does it as well. One has to
Other nationalities already salute Filipinos for being hard workers. And they should, as we are the hardest working class any company would love to have. But being a hard working individual isn’t enough, to reach the top one must always reinvent oneself. Never be complacent. Regardless of the profession you are in, you have to stay relevant. And for those who do, there’s only one way and that is to the top.
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IT’S WHAT I DO
It’s what I do
FILIPINO PROGRESS AND DIVERSITY AT THE WORK PLACE
Contessa Podador HR Generalist - Gulf & Pakistan, NALCO (An Ecolab Company Dubai
My job I am a Human Resource Generalist. I’m the one stop shop for employees in my company for all things concerning HR – e.g. inquiries about pay, bonuses, how to hire people into the company, visa process questions, etc. I’ve recently left a big IT Company in July 2014 to join my new company. I was so used to an autonomous and a virtual way of working; I’ve never met any of my three managers in person or any of my team members from across Europe either. I was very apprehensive in getting back into the “real world.” Going to the office everyday on a specific time is something that is new to me again. So is dealing with my supervisor and my team face to face. I thought I would be struggling for long but I find it a success that I’ve integrated well into the office quite seamlessly and have a
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good working relationship with my manager and the rest of my team. I am no longer virtual…
My work day I get into the office, check mails, make phone calls, make reports, make and send out offers/letters/documents/items to employees in my office as well as other satellite offices in the Gulf. It’s a very busy office environment.
My message to Filipinos around the globe It’s a happy mixture of luck, hard work and patience to be a success in the UAE or anywhere in the world. Keep your chin up and your head down. Hurrah for the Global Filipino!
10 THINGS TO DO Start the year right by being active and social. Looking for fun activities to add to your good vibes? Check this list, try one or two things, and enjoy the beginning of your 2015 here in Dubai.
Immerse yourself in Arabic culture
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Music is one way to appreciate different cultures. Even when we try to sing in a foreign language, transcendent music allows us to feel the emotions in the melody. This month, UAE residents and visitors get the chance to watch a mega concert series featuring 20 superstars of the Arab world. The series of concerts slated to be the biggest of its kind in the region, is being produced in collaboration with Platinum Records, a 360-music entertainment company, owned by MBC Group, and in association with the Dubai Media City. The line-up of famous Arab singers in the so-titled DSF Celebration Nights includes Mohammad Abdo, Hussan Al Jassmi, Amr Diab, Ahlam, Nancy Ajram, Elissa, Majed Mohandes, and many more. Catch them live at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre on January 16, 17, 22, 23, 29 and 30.
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Get fascinated with traditional wear Back by popular demand is the abaya and traditional wear show ‘Abbati’ following its phenomenal launch during DSF’s 19th edition in 2014. Abbati puts the spotlight on both regional and local abaya trends, as showcased by prominent homegrown talents from the region and beyond. This year, as part of its various offerings, Abbati will include fashion shows, as well as a retail space promoting modernized traditional wear. The event from 19 and 20 January is happening at the Armani Hotel; while the exhibition will be held from 14 - 16 January at The Dubai Mall.
Check out celebrity pop-up shop
Giuliana Rancic and her husband Bill Rancic – stars of the Giuliana and Bill American reality television series has a unique Celebrity Pop Up Shop at The Beach opposite Jumeirah Beach Road. Fashion enthusiasts will have a blast at this cool pop-up shop happening only from January 1 to January 17.
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10 THINGS TO DO
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Think Market Outside The Box (Market OTB)
Market Outside the Box (OTB) – the region’s first sustainable fashion and lifestyle marketplace featuring retailers operating out of stylishly refurbished shipping containers – is returning this year, much to the delight of shoppers looking to pick up a wide selection of sustainably produced fashion items, accessories, jewelry, shoes, bags, home décor, stationery and beauty products, in addition to organic food concepts. Musical stage performances, film screenings, workshops and industryspecific interactive sessions at Market OTB for families and individuals will add to the overall excitement in a lively al fresco setting. Be at the Southridge Park, Downtown Dubai from January 15-24 to check this out.
Treat your kids to Smurfs show
One of the main attractions of DSF 2015, the world premiere of Smurfs Live on Stage will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. It’s every Smurfs favorite time of year: Spring, which means it’s time for the annual Spring Parade. But with Gargamel their sworn enemy always on the prowl, they have to come up with every trick in the book to ward off this perennial threat, to prevail. Catch the world famous Smurfs live in action in Dubai as they weave a magical music story that is bound to enthrall fans and families. Smurfs Live on Stage will have four shows during DSF, each show being of 90 minutes duration from January 16-19.
Visit the Ripe Food & Craft Market Dubai peeps now have a reason to wake up earlier every Friday and run to Zabeel Park. The Ripe Food & Craft Market is a unique community event, offering a platform for talented local artisans and small business owners to showcase their businesses in an informal market environment, to both the local and expat community. Get the best of fresh foods unique to your eyes, and perfect for posting in social media.
Take a carpet ride
The Carpet and Art Oasis is a not-to-be-missed exhibition of some of the most rare, largest, and most unique carpets and rugs from various well-known carpet producing countries of the world. Showcasing a choicest selection of unique pieces, each offering its own charm with amazing designs and striking patterns, the Carpet & Arts Oasis offers visitors the chance to add elements of artistic decoration to their homes with a diverse line-up of art works and handicrafts also on sale. Check the exhibition from January 1 to February 1 at the Dubai Festival City.
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10 THINGS TO DO
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Fly some kites
Kiting is one of the most relaxing activities to do with friends and families. Here in the city, the Dubai International Kite Fest (DIKF) would be the first largescale events of its kind to be held in Dubai featuring a mix of adventure, fun and colors. Visualized as a family fun day out on the beach, DIKF would also see an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the most kites flown simultaneously. The world record bid will be made on the last day of the festival. Be at the kite festival on January 29-31, and let the kid in you be out again.
Be merry in the malls
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While the 20th anniversary of Dubai Shopping festival is ongoing, mall visitors find many more events and activities. The events include a wide range of international shows at leading malls in Dubai featuring entertainers from different countries, who will be performing live on-stage during DSF. Other events include Pinoy Fiesta, a family entertainment show featuring top artists from the Philippines; Latin Art Fest with the best of Latin art, music and food; the Little Superstars, a musical show by the “Pre Skool” group famed for their performances in Britain’s Got Talent; Perch Creek featuring a band of five energetic multi-instrumentalists and vocalists; Spirit of the Orient, a show featuring some of the most spectacular and traditional Chinese art forms and music; From the West End to Broadway, that will stage some of the well-known musicals ever to have been staged shown in these two arenas of theatre; Caitlin, a Zambian-born electric violinist who has performed across the world for royalty, and world leaders; B-Boying with Ballerinas, which combines ballet and break dancing, and much more.
Feast on food From February 6-28, the Dubai Food Festival is back. It’s a citywide culinary celebration that showcases the Emirate’s emergence as a gastronomy destination through a 23-day programme of food-related consumer and trade events, activities, promotions and appearances by food celebrities. The Festival promotes the diversity, creativity and multicultural nature of Dubai’s culinary offering – from five-star gourmet dining to everyday restaurants and cafés for all budgets; international brands to a burgeoning scene of home-grown concepts influenced by traditional Emirati cuisine and the flavors of the 200 nationalities that live in Dubai. With exclusive and new events set to include the region’s-first foodie film nights, Dubai Food & Film, and nine back-to-back celebrity chef cooking sensations as part of the new-for-2015 and Middle East’s first, Fatafeat Kitchen, the Festival will also welcome a fleet of the city’s favorite food trucks in the Food Truck Convoy. Another highlight comes in the form of celebrity chef’s taking over the kitchens of the Dubai Creek’s iconic floating restaurants as part of Dine on the Creek. The 23-day citywide extravaganza will also bring back 2014 event favorites, Beach Canteen, Dubai Food Carnival, Taste of Peru, GulFood and the Global Restaurant Investment Forum (GRIF) amongst many more, to satisfy the culinary cravings of Dubai’s visiting and resident foodies.
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SCRAPBOOK
MARBEN EGE ASARI Riyadh, Saudi Arabia A nurse by profession and photographer by passion, Marben Ege Asari says that his pursuit of life goes beyond work and providing for his family back home. According to the natural-born artist, he goes through life with enthusiasm, especially in pursuing his love for photography – where he tries to capture the beauty of nature. Marben enjoys shooting while hiking in the desert, trekking the hills and mountains or while scuba diving in the kingdom; all the while endeavoring to learn more and sharpen his skills for his chosen craft.
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SCRAPBOOK
PATRICK ARIAS CASTILLI Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Fine arts, major in advertising graduate Patrick Arias Castilli works as a senior photographer for Emirates Today/Emarat Al Youm. Before his local stint, he worked as a photojournalist/ correspondent for the Manila Times, as well as the Office of the Philippine President, as the photographer of former Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
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FASHION Top: GANAHO LABEL Bottoms: GANAHO LABEL Shoes: NEW BALANCE
PHOTOGRAPHER: IRVIN RIVERA MODEL: DEVON SPENCE STYLISTS: ART HUNTER & BRANDON NIQUOLAS MAKE-UP: JOSEPH ADIVARI PRODUCTION: FRANCIS GUM • ISAAC PUNO
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FASHION
One does not defy gravity. What gravity? We were never meant to be earthbound. Not made for soil, ours is the sky.
AND SO WE FLY
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FASHION
Top: TALEFORESTHER Jumpsuit: BTFLPEOPLE Socks: HELMUT LANG Shoes: ALDO
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FASHION
Top: GANAHO LABEL
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FASHION Belt: MICHAEL ASTRO Shorts: BAYO
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FASHION Shorts: GANAHO LABEL Socks: HELMUT LANG Shoes: CLARKS
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FASHION
Top: GANAHO LABEL Bottoms: BTFL PEOPLE Bag: HUMAN Shoes: DIESEL
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FASHION
Top: BAND OF KINGS
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FASHION Top: KRISTINE AMARILLO Bottom: ONESIMUS Shoes: CREATIVE RECS
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FASHION
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FASHION
Top: BAND OF KINGS Pants: BTFL PEOPLE Socks: AP Shoes: ALDO coat: SKINGRAFT
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FASHION
Top: KRISTINE AMARILLO Bottom: ONESIMUS Shoes: CREATIVE RECS
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FASHION Top: GANAHO LABEL Bottoms: BTFL PEOPLE Bag: HUMAN Shoes: DIESEL
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FASHION
Top: KRISTINE AMARILLO Bottom: ONESIMUS Shoes: CREATIVE RECS
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FASHION Top: GANAHO LABEL Bottoms: BTFL PEOPLE Bag: HUMAN Shoes: DIESEL
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FASHION
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REAL STYLE. REAL PEOPLE. Our Filipino fashionistas are at it again! Whether in cold Canada, Japan, or in mild Philippines and the emirates, these Pinoy style bloggers are certainly making the most of this season’s cold weather!
JP SINGSON, who calls himself a “professional bum” is a definitive fan of the avant garde look. Follow him at www.jponfashionspeed.com
The pretty PENALOSA sibs NINA, CRIZ and KAT show us how to wear trendy animal prints three ways. See more of them at www.thewayshewears.com
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REAL STYLE. REAL PEOPLE.
Young Manila-based designer JUSTIN OROPESA of www.designbyjustin-o.tumblr.com layers on the unusual for the cooler clime. BETTINA MICU of Dubai is an aspiring designer trying to find her own fashion voice. See her OOTDs and designs at www. heelsindubaisand.blogspot.ae
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REAL STYLE. REAL PEOPLE.
Timid BRYAN VILLAMOR from Vancouver does basics with a little extra panache. Check him out at www.debrionne.tumblr.com
When you’re in Baguio, you can indulge in layers all year long, just like designer Jairus Sumineg. See more of him at www. facebook.com/jairus.sumineg
TheFilipinas.com blogger PAOLO BUSTAMANTE does preppy chic Manila-style. Photo by Marque Designs.
Manila-based hetero heroine Kristine G of www. heteroheroine.tumblr.com pairs an unusual match - a de-structured camel jacket with shorts for a cool in the tropics look.
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REAL STYLE. REAL PEOPLE.
Sweet Lo Pascual sports his Sunday best. Catch this AbuDhabi based style blogger at www.locloset.blogspot.com
Style blogger Austin de Jesus is just too cool for school! Follow him at www.dejesusaustin.tumblr.com
Manila-based Yoxef Alfonso layers up for the cold weather in Japan. Follow his adventures at www.facebook.com/yoxefalfonso
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NEWS
TACLOBAN, PHILIPPINES: In advance of Pope Francis’ visit on 17th January 2015 to the survivors of the deadliest tropical storm to hit land-fill, Ooberfuse join 2,000 Haiyan survivors in Tacloban for final rehearsal. Ooberfuse are an electronica band from Woolwich, London – Hal St. John and Filipina lead singer Cherrie Anderson, joined with producer Roland Faber. The band has played as a warm up act to the Pope in front of a live audience of 2 million, performed in the House of Lords. They have received support from many influential quarters including BBC Introducing’s Tom Robinson, Ministry of Sound’s Sister Bliss, Paul Oakenfold and others. Arriving ahead of the visit for a dry run, the band has been rehearsing with local musicians. Their song Mercy has been adopted by the organizers as the official international soundtrack of Francis’ mercymission. Mercy is a musical message of hope to the survivors left behind.
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Filipina lead singer Cherrie Anderson’s return to her birth-town Tacloban is an emotional home-coming. Many of the families are still rebuilding their homes over 12 months after the trail of devastation left behind by typhoon Haiyan (known locally as Yolanda). Cherrie, front-woman of the band, says - “When I stepped off the plane rain was falling from angry clouds in the skies. Locals were preparing for another tropical storm expected to strike on the Wednesday before Pope Francis’ visit. Whilst Leyte is a region accustomed to extreme weather conditions, being exposed to the winds sweeping across the Pacific, no-one was prepared for the ferocity of typhoon Haiyan. The term ‘storm-surge’, used by civil authorities in forewarning, meant little more to the locals than yet another tropical storm. Most people we have met lost family members to Haiyan.” Hal St John from the band adds:
“Tacloban, although a city, is nevertheless economically very poor. It stands at the cross-roads with Mindanao, the Muslim south of the Philippines. Over 12 months after the drama of the storm, there is a definite air of expectation building in the town in the days leading up to Francis’ visit. Whilst the official events are ticketed, restricting the audience to 200,000 people, they are expecting millions to assemble in the region. Pope Francis’ presence amongst the traumatized survivors is seen in prophetic terms as a concrete expression of the shepherd’s love for his scattered sheep. The president of the Catholic Bishop’s Conference, Archbishop Socrates Villegas, today reminded the public ‘Let us not forget that the primary reason for the papal visit is to console victims.” Watch the band’s “Mercy” video on youtube https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=wKVkQ82LJMQ and the rest of their music at www.ooberfuse.com.
NEWS
Pure Gold’s Jewellers launches Valentine’s Day Pendants Free solitaire and raffle draw for Mercedes convertible Valentine’s Day is a special time to win the heart of one’s loved one and, true to the occasion, Pure Gold Jewellers has launched a collection of ‘heart and key’ pendants to unlock the heart of love. The award winning jewelry retailer, the first and only Authorized Diamond Dealer by World Diamond Mark, has a stunning collection featuring three ‘heart and key’ pendants- a Love Key, which is beautiful diamond studded gold key with a crown; a romantic diamond studded heart key; and another gold key with two diamond studded hearts, symbolizing two hearts unlocked.
LIALI designs expressions of love to celebrate a trendy Valentine’s This Valentine’s Day, nothing says ‘I Love You’ like the sparkling, exclusive and mesmerizing collection by region’s favorite LIALI Jewellery. LIALI’s New Petite charm bracelets in 18k gold and diamonds are just as unique as your love. Embellished with cute good luck charms, and with designs in rose gold finish these can be just the perfect gift for your loved one at AED.1200/For the more romantic sorts, say it with LOVE Bands – a set of two rings that express love infinite. Affordable on the pocket, these
UAE Exchange ties up with BDO Unibank for FLASHremit Filipinos can now send money real-time to their families with BDO Unibank accounts
Apart from the exquisite collection, Pure Gold Jewellers is also giving customers a free solitaire and the chance to win a brand new luxury Mercedes convertible through a raffle draw. The Love Key pendant is available for AED 1399 while the single and double heart key pendants are priced at AED 1099/- and AED 1699/respectively. The collection also includes two interlocked diamond and gold hearts symbolizing the deep love of a couple. These pendants are available for AED 1099/- and AED 899/- each. This offer is valid until the 16th of February 2015 from all Pure Gold Jewellers stores.
rings at AED5000 are a perfect beginning to your Valentine’s. If you’re getting engaged, what better way to do it that with an Italian rope bangle from Tessitoreto? Exquisite design and refined Italian craftsmanship, these rope bangles are in white, rose and yellow gold from AED2500.
one. Add a mystic charm to your valentine moments with LIALI’s Regalo pendants with chain that define simplicity in grandeur with its unmatched designs.
Find your key to her heart with LIALI’s signature keyshaped pendants in gold and diamonds. A simple and apt expression of love and compatibility, the keypendants with chain are a romantic combination of love and commitment, intricately designed especially for your loved
back home following the tie-up between UAE Exchange and BDO for the offering of FLASHremit. An innovative service launched by UAE Exchange, FLASHremit empowers the customers to send money to any bank account across borders, in real-time. Both the sender and beneficiary receive an SMS notification the moment the account is credited. In Philippines,
other than BDO Unibank, Asia United Bank, Metro Bank and Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation are the other three banks, which have partnered with UAE Exchange for FLASHremit For more information on UAE Exchange, visit www.uaeexchange.com, and http://blog. uaeexhchange.com
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PINOY PLANET
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PINOY PLANET The Art Gallery of Alberta
Arlene De Ocampo Bathan
April 1, 2014 census) from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. A resident of Edmonton is known as an Edmontonian. English is the official language but different native languages are widely spoken too like French, Tagalog, Cantonese, Punjabi, Mandarin, Spanish, Arabic, Ukrainian, German and others. Edmonton enjoys more than 2,000 hours of sunshine each year and four distinct seasons: Spring, Summer (June to September with an average temperature of 15° C to 23° C or 60° F to 73° F), Autumn (Fall) and Winter (December to March or April with an average temperature of 8° C to -25° C or 18° F to -13° F).
Edmonton has been our home since August 2013. The move has been planned taking into consideration, free and good quality education for our children, a stable economy, great employment opportunities and permanent residency with a chance to be a citizen of Canada. We chose to live and settle in Edmonton, Alberta first, because we have a family here and second, because the city has so much to offer. Our city Edmonton is the capital city of the Canadian province of Alberta. It is the second largest city of Alberta (next to Calgary) and the fifth largest municipality of Canada. It is home to 877, 926 people (Edmonton’s official population as of
Edmonton has been called the City of Champions. It was so named for the city’s response to the tornado of July 31, 1987 and also for sporting success during the 1980s because of its professional ice hockey team - the Edmonton Oilers. Like other Canadians, Edmontonians love ice hockey. There are many unique festivals and special events throughout the year in Edmonton. Some of them are celebrations of food and culture from around the world: Taste of Edmonton (food and restaurants), Canadian Finals Rodeo, K-Days (rides, music and other entertainment), Edmonton International Fringe Festival (exhibition of alternative theatre), Edmonton Heritage Festival (an ethno cultural food and heritage festival) Cariwest (Caribbean Festival) Edmonton Poetry Festival, Edmonton Pride Festival and many others. The city also hosts exciting sports events like the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup
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PINOY PLANET
Autumn view of the north Saskatchewan river valley and downtown in city Edmonton
Canada 2015 from June 6 – July 5, 2015. It is also home to different music and film festivals and has been a venue for concerts of different and famous international artists like, Justin Timberlake, Taylor Swift, Westlife, my daughter’s favorites, One Direction and Five Seconds of Summer will also be performing in July 2015. Even local Filipino shows and artists frequently perform in Edmonton; the most recent is ShowTime Live in Edmonton.
Many professional immigrants with high education or skill level start with survival jobs. Some opt for underemployment or to study further for a couple of months to upgrade. My husband and I also started with survival jobs in a supermarket as deli clerks. But with perseverance and God’s grace, my husband has a regular job now related to his education and past experience, and I am celebrating this month my first anniversary as government employee.
Edmonton City as part of Alberta province has lower taxes compared to other provinces of Canada. Its industries, such as oil and gas, keep its economy strong and steady.
I work as Director’s Secretary under the Student Learning Standards Division of Alberta Education (Ministry of Education). I am responsible for leading and coordinating the daily operations of the Director’s office; maintaining consistent, efficient and effective correspondence and information flow, arrangement of appointments and meetings and travel coordination. As Director’s Secretary, I perform a variety of administrative and secretarial services for the Branch, liaise on behalf of the Director’s office and maintain close communication links with branch and sector staff, the Executive Director’s and Associate Deputy Minister’s offices and external partners and stakeholders. I am the only Filipino in our sector and I am proud that I have gained the respect of my Canadian supervisors and colleagues.
Life in Edmonton We moved here from Abu Dhabi, UAE where we lived for thirteen years, and came under the Federal Skilled Program of the Canadian Government. It was a huge adjustment for my husband, three children and me – adapting to a new country, its culture, climate and way of life. Our first few months were not easy but we were lucky to have my husband’s brother and his family to support us. Although there are a lot of jobs available in Edmonton finding a suitable one took time.
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As many Filipinos do, we still kept the job at
the supermarket on a part time basis. My children adjusted well and quickly to life in Canada. They are on their second year of study under the Catholic school system and they are active in school. My eldest is a varsity basketball player and my other two children are involved in other extracurricular activities in school. Their education is provided free by the Government until they finish Grade 12 (minimal miscellaneous fees are paid by us to school). This is what we like living here in Canada. Even when we pay income tax and government sales tax (GST) we know and see that those taxes are used by the government to provide free education, health care and other basic services to its people. Apart from these, there are other benefits the government provides to support the family. I work from Monday to Friday. At home, I try to fulfill my role as a wife and mother of three. During free time, I am into social media to connect with relatives and friends. I join book clubs, do works for Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation as volunteer, and offer services at the church as reader and join bible study groups. As a family, we enjoy dining out and malling. During winter, we go to West Edmonton Mall (the largest shopping mall in North America) or watch movie at the
PINOY PLANET View of a modern building (muttart conservatory). In the foreground (right) is the conservatory.
The Alberta Legislature Building
theater every once in a while. Skiing is a bit expensive but we hope to go some time to experience it. In summer and when there are long weekends, we go out with friends for camping or long drive to explore the vast land of Alberta.
Just like home
As of 2013, there are more than 39,000 Filipinos in Edmonton. Filipinos are respected in Canada as we are hardworking, reliable and sincere people. Many came here as care givers, nannies or temporary foreign workers. They work and live here until they meet the requirements to get permanent residency (this takes a couple of
years) and bring their family members here. Some Filipinos like my family, came here as immigrants under different programs of the Canadian government. There are more than 30 Filipino community groups or clubs in Edmonton. These groups are either regional/provincial related,
ILLUSTRADO 77
PINOY PLANET Beautiful winter night scene of the city
ILLUSTRADO 78
PINOY PLANET alumni associations, church affiliations, cultural groups, professional associations, fraternities, or even a group of Filipinos working in one sector like the Government of Alberta (GOA) Kababayan where I am a new member. These groups support its members; they meet regularly, get together on special occasions and Filipino Holidays (Independence Day, Christmas, etc.). They also get together and work together especially during Edmonton Heritage Festival, a threeday showcase of Canada’s vibrant multicultural heritage held every summer. Filipino groups join to build the Philippines Pavilion showcasing our culture and heritage through cultural performances, offering traditional Filipino food, which Canadians have learned to enjoy, as well clothing, handicrafts, and other things which can be found only in the Philippines. The spirit of ‘bayanihan’ is always here. In fact, many fund raising projects have been held in Edmonton to help the victims of typhoon Haiyan. Even when they belong to different groups, Filipinos always join hand in hand to help our less fortunate ‘kababayans’ back home in times of calamities.
dollar coin), “toonie” (two-dollar coin) and “eh” (an interjection meaning “please repeat that” or “huh?”; it is also commonly used as a question tag). This reminds me of our ‘ala eh’ term in Batangas. Even when we now live in a different city and country, we still keep Filipino values and traditions. We go to church every Sunday and pray together as a family. I still remind my children to kiss the hands of Filipino elders we meet (pagmamano) and to not to forget saying ‘po’ and ‘opo’ when talking to them. We also speak Tagalog at home for them not to forget the language. We cook and eat Filipino food, have reunions with the whole family and have Noche Buena and Media Noche together.
Kababayan greetings Wherever you are, be proud to be a Filipino. Persevere, be fair and be patient. Believe in yourself and always trust God. Always pray and lift up all your plans, successes and even trials. Everything will come and will happen in God’s perfect time.
Going Canadian; staying Filipino Canadians are fair people, everyone is treated equal. You can call your boss or even higher executives in the company by firsts name only; no need to address formally by the last name. Canadians are also known for always apologizing and using adorable terms like “loonie” (one-
Longhorn home on the range just west of Edmonton, Alberta Canada. These animals are descendants of stock imported from Texas in
The exterior of a historic catholic church under the blue sky.
ILLUSTRADO 79
ONLI IN DA PILIPINS
15 New Year’s Resolutions
You Might Never Keep as Long as You Live in the Philippines By ABY YAP
Hold it, kababayans! We don’t mean to discourage you from fulfilling your long-deliberated vows for 2015. Rather, the list aims to help you understand and/or confront the enemy: failing miserably at keeping your resolutions year after year when the whole wide world (aka www) already knows that there will be a New You. Okay, it could also give you valid excuses why you should never come up with New Year’s resolutions ever again.
ILLUSTRADO 80
1. Lose weight. With everything carbohydrate and cholesterol-loaded that makes up the Pinoy’s staple food, there’s no weigh way you can achieve that Marimaaar! body
you’ve been dreaming of in just a year. Either move to an island where no street food vendor sell their delicious stuff or gyrate with your hips every five minutes, awww!
ONLI IN DA PILIPINS
2. Be debt-free.
7. Breathe heartily.
Mall sale + group coupons + stagnant wage + unbelievable tax + credit card (because you were tempted by the promise of a free umbrella) + 5-6 you owe your Indian “associate” = financial stress. Sad to say, the best things in Pinas aren’t often free.
So you finally ditched your yosi kadiri, good for you! It doesn’t mean, though, that your lungs will be completely free of toxins. You might still fall victim to second-hand smoking, smoke belching, and even to your neighbor’s garbage burning afternoon activity. Keep a gas mask handy.
3. Get real. Going out with loved ones is cool, but we’re the world’s most sociable race online! Remember, we have to hang on to the title. And with the traffic mess that plague our roads these days, it would be a million times wiser to socialize online where it’s free.
4. Avoid tardiness. Dear bosses, coming in late for work isn’t part of our plot to annoy you. Think: who’d want a salary deduction merely because of that? But every road that leads to you is awfully congested at any time. Even the MRT/LRT has ceased being cooperative, sorry.
5. Drink moderately. We know it by heart. Beer ads have done a remarkable job in reminding us. But we can’t just tell this to the tambays in the barangay once they offer us a tagay and a shot at videoke. We want to live healthy, but we also want to live longer.
6. Party less. There’s a reason why it’s more fun in the Philippines. We always find something to celebrate: Saint John’s feast, lechon parade, big brother’s first pay, small sister’s tree role in the school play, parents’ wedding anniversary, next-door neighbor’s cousin’s homecoming, etc. And it’s bound to be bongga!
8. Give up gambling. When you have a chance to be hundreds of millions richer for just PHP20, it’s tough to turn your back on lotto. So what if the probability of hitting the jackpot is only 1:28,989,675? You’ve got all days of the year to pray for it in Baclaran.
9. Quit grumbling. The PHP25-million Purisima mansion, Binay family’s world-class Makati City Hall, Bilibid’s luxurious kubols, Korina Sanchez’s tactlessness, Mar Roxas—are you sure you’re actually serious about this resolution? TV, radio, newspapers, the web, and your Facebook’s newsfeeds won’t be able to hide the objectionable truth from you.
10. Stop the tsismis. Maybe we’re just an innately curious lot. But how can you resist not knowing the current status of Coco Martin’s love life from A&A? Or the swanky socialite’s money troubles from Fashion Pulis? Or the new security guard’s history from your village’s friendly sari-sari store owner?
11. End the drama. As long as Amor Powers and Claudia Buenavista live on, there’s a crying contestant segment on noontime variety shows, and the one with the most kawawa
anecdote wins the game, you’ll have a hard time turning your emo mode off. Embrace the reality: we’re suckers for tearjerkers.
12. Trash touchy. Pikon = talo. So you decide that you’ll no longer be a loser. But wait, three-fourths of Pinoys can’t differentiate a harmless joke from an honest comment! They’ll definitely gang up on you and declare you persona non grata in their municipality. Are you ready for that?
13. Live in peace. If your social life is existent solely on Facebook and Twitter, you might not be able to live peacefully ever after. With the parinigan going on among frenemies, snarky comments, and duh! status updates, you can only give a huge dislike for these nega stars, which they rightfully deserve.
14. Act smart. In these crazy times, acting smart doesn’t necessarily lead to smart results. You might even get the feeling of being lugi as the majority who fail to include this one in their annual list of resolutions, rules. A case in point: our roster of elected public servants.
15. Realize resolutions. If your government officials can’t keep their promises, why won’t you break yours? They’re supposed to be our role models! Haha, that’s funny. Seriously now, no more excuses. You’re Pinoy. You can rise to the challenge of accomplishing your resolutions—anytime you want, anywhere you are. Have a fulfilling 2015!
ILLUSTRADO 81
ON THE PROWL, IN THE KNOW
By Ion Gonzaga – Dubai There’s this one unpleasant comment
The beginner in me has quickly discovered
Participating in a running event is fun and
many of us OFWs commonly receive when
great things about running. In addition to the
friendly too. You’d be surprised at what
returning home and meeting old friends and
obvious health and fitness benefits, I feel an
you can achieve. I will be joining the Dubai
families...”Tumaba ka ah!”
improvement in my well-being as a whole.
Marathon again this month. So see you at the
Unlike before, where stress beats me up,
starting line.
The assumption that many Filipinos in Dubai
running relieves me from it. My mind feels
go back home with “extra baggage” has
very refreshed and relaxed.
So, hopefully, the next time you go home, your friends will then say, “Wow sexy mo na.”
become common. Well, it probably shows. But the growing popularity of recent running
A few friends discouraged me to join the run
events in the emirates could prove this notion
as it is not my field and it might be bad for my
Follow Ion Gonzaga - http://www.boydubai.
wrong.
knees and worsen the pain in my joints. Well,
com/ or on Twitter @ionGonzaga
it didn’t! It may not be easy in the beginning Last month at the #WeRunDXB 10K race,
but eventually the body pains went away and
Filipinos formed a huge chunk of the eight
I feel conditioned.
thousand strong crowd. Running, apparently, is also a big hit in Dubai as it is back home.
I’m happy to see thousands of people running with the same motivation.
New
The primary reason I joined the run is to
Year’s resolutions are always full of wishes to
introduce sustainable physical activity and
get fitter and healthier. If you’re one of the
to bring balance to my otherwise, very hectic
hopefuls, you might as well try running. It’s
lifestyle. The discipline, the values I get from
not costly and you can do it at a park near
training inspire me to do the same in the
you. And best of all, your competition is
other aspects of my life.
yourself.
By Rian Miranda – Riyadh
in case you forgot to click incognito.
Happy New Year! I’d like to open the year
to help us get by while we’re far away from
with uncomplicated tips and tricks on how to
home:
make our fellow OFs life easier.
1. Scan your passport, ID, and other
4. If you’re new to the country, or you’re going
important documents and email it to yourself
on a road trip and you need to remember
I suppose you have seen articles about how
so you have a digital copy in the event of loss
where you’re staying, drop a pin on Google
to clean your home equipments with soda,
or theft.
maps and take a screenshot. Take a picture of your area as well.
or how to make even-sized pancakes using a ketchup bottle. Thankfully, there are some
2. Save your important contacts in your speed
generous home makers and explorers who
dial so you won’t need to go through your
To use Google Maps offline, type “ok maps”
have unselfishly shared their tips that are
phonebook should there be an emergency.
and the current location on your phone will
particularly useful for us OFs, including other
Keep your phone always fully charged and
save it for later. It’s useful for important places
life hacks from other sources that I believe
close to you at all times.
you want to visit or need to go to when out of town so you have the info available in case
you might find exceedingly useful. 3. Enable private browsing when booking
you lose service.
Of course, I wouldn’t recommend anything
flights or hotels online. Travel sites often track
unless I haven’t tried it myself. So without
views and will increase your price based on
5. On your bedside table, keep a bottle of
further ado, here are some of the best tips
every site visit. You can also clear your cache
water and a small pouch or an organizer bag
ILLUSTRADO 82
ON THE PROWL, IN THE KNOW
filled with quick relievers for fever, stomach
10. If you need a fast editor to check your
14. For balikbayans who fancy shopping at
pain, or migraine, in case you wake up feeling
grammar, you can edit your sentence using
crime-infested areas back home like Divisoria
under the weather. It will buy you some time
the speaking tool in Google Translate. Copy
or Quiapo, use an “almost worthless” mobile
until you’re able to refresh yourself to get to
and paste your lines in the first box, translate
phone. Of course you can still bring a high-
the hospital.
it in the language of your choice, and click
end model with you, just don’t sashay it
6. Buy a portable phone charger and always
the speaker icon. If it didn’t sound right, you
for everyone else to see. If you want to use
keep it fully charged. Always keep it in your
will easily spot where you went wrong.
it, then go to the nearest comfort room and hide while using it. But for your safety,
purse so your cell phone won’t run out of power, especially in times of crisis.
11. For ladies who use hair styling irons, you
I suggest you leave it at home or keep it in
can immediately store it in a pot holder even
your underwear.
7. For those working on demanding shifts
while it’s still warm if you’re in hurry to keep
and barely have any time to cook, the freezer
it after use.
15. We’re all aware how expensive gas can sometimes be, and how bad the traffic might
is your best friend. Purchase cooked meals at restaurants or delis, and freeze them. If you’re
12. For quick weather and percentage
get. If you want to save time and penny, try
feeling productive during your day off, cook
conversions:
commuting. But always use a coin purse to store your coins and small bills, when using
your meals good for a week and freeze them as well. Just take a portion and re-heat it in
Quick temperature conversion
public transportation. There’s no need for
the microwave after coming home from your
C to F: Multiply the temperature by 2, and
you to bring out your wallet containing larger
busy day.
then add 30.
bills and ATM/credit cards that may cause
F to C: Just work it backwards. Subtract 30,
attention. You certainly don’t want to get
and then divide it by 2.
noticed by a thief who might be lingering
8. When you’re short on time to iron your
around or inside the vehicle.
clothes but you want wrinkle-free lessdelicate tops or bottoms in a snap, lightly
When
you’re
out
shopping
during
spray some water on your clothes and put it
sale season, here’s how to easily tackle
Also, if you’re in the Philippines and you
in the dryer set at the lowest heat for at least
percentages to check the price drop-of:
frequently ride the MRT to-and-from your
10-15 minutes. Take it out immediately and
e.g. 20% of 500 - Drop the 1s digit of the
point of destination, purchase Stored Value
let it cool for a minute. You can also wear it
number and multiply by the 10s digit of the
cards that only cost PHP100. It is valid for
right away if you want to feel warm.
% (2 x 50 = 100).
three months upon first use, and it will save
9. In case of a pimple breakout, you can
13. To keep the screws of your spectacles
shrink zits in minutes by applying a dab of
from loosening, apply a small drop of clear
mouthwash on the affected area. The alcohol
nail polish to the threads of the screws before
will dry up the swelling and cause it to fade.
tightening them.
you time from long queues. Stay safe, everyone! Follow Rian - Instagram: msrianmiranda, Youtube: www.youtube.com/rianmiranda
ILLUSTRADO 83
ON THE PROWL, IN THE KNOW
Art in our blood By Leslie Fiestan – Riyadh I was brought up in a family of artisans. For as
characters have a more Disney vibe to them.
It’s a constant flow of ideas. In my case, ideas
long as I could remember, I’ve been sketching
Among us three, I’m the only one who still
flow while I’m working on a project. And
and painting to my heart’s content and I
struggles a bit with a pen and brush, as well
so I get a bit irritated when I’m disrupted
remember my mom pointing out that I was
as with coloring. My siblings have mastered
most especially when I’m in ‘the zone.’
like her uncle who too was gifted.
their tools of choice, be it digital or painting/
will only pause when I want or need to. You
drawing by hand. They are also very adept at
could say that I’m in a trance, a deep one.
drawing human anatomy.
Unwanted interruptions cause that idea to
My maternal grandmother was skilled and
I
fade. Unfortunately, that’s something people
creative. I used to watch her embroider, knit,
seldom understand.
crochet and sew clothes. She passed on these
From an early age, we all knew what our
skills to my aunt and my mom, as well. I have
passion was, we always had our own pads,
tried my hands at all those skills and have at
pens colored pencils, pastels, watercolors
The ideas phase can be hard when I can’t think
least completed a few simple projects. It’s
and doodles on our books and notebooks and
of anything. Thus I need to find an inspiration.
really not as easy as it looks since it requires
folders to keep all our artwork. My brother
After doing a rough sketch, that’s when I start
a lot of imagination, focus and patience, and
always carried a sketchbook. Sometimes you
to draw and paint my subject and during
patience is something I need to have more of.
can catch me swinging my fingers with a blank
the process the original idea could change
expression, that’s because I’m drawing on air
depending on what looks better and what
which is something my mom does as well.
doesn’t, what fits and what works.
technique. I for example, I am more focused on
We see images in ordinary things and
My process of work can be different from
photography although I could paint and sketch
sometimes turn it into a game of “Do you see
other artists, but we all do share the same
as well and I’m into realism. My brother grew
what I see?” It’s pretty much like finding shapes
behavioral patterns and it’s true that we can
up an anime fan and naturally his artworks
in clouds, only we see shapes in everyday items
grow attached to our masterpieces. They are
reflect more on the Japanese style of art.
like spills, patterns and even how things are
after all, our creation.
My sister is the only one who ventured into
organized. It’s true that our minds wander a
sculpting, particularly in clay. Also, since she
lot, hence the silence and preference to spend
grew up loving the Lion King, her artworks
alone time in our room.
In my family, three of us are quite good at drawing and each with a unique style and
focus more on animals and her original human
ILLUSTRADO 84
Follow Les - http://lesfiestan.daportfolio.com/