ILLUSTRADO Magazine_June-July 2011

10 JUNE 2011-10 AUG 2011

Global Filipino The

53

issue

113 years of Independence

ON BEING A FILIPINO•WILL THE REAL FILIPINO PLEASE STAND UP? OFS TOWARDS FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE IT’S WHAT I DO: PINOY TALENT ON-THE-JOB•MONEY DOESN’T BUY HAPPINESS “KASAL LANG AKO”•FASHION: FROM MANILA BAY WITH LOVE HERE COMES THE HAUTE COUTURE BRIDE•MY PINOY LIFE IN DENMARK TAKING ON NORTHERN PHILIPPINES BY BUS•THE ANNIE B CHRONICLES

Photo by Eros Goze

From the outside looking in

EDITOR’S NOTE

I used to be a parochial silly little Filipina.

I thought my parents were traitors for opting to work abroad when they could have stayed on in the Philippines and stood by me and my siblings, as we came of age.

In college, my friends and I would gossip about a fellow “Iskolar ng Bayan” who came from the US, and who claimed that English was her first language. We would wince in disbelief whenever she would “try” to speak in badly mangled Tagalog, or effortlessly mouth off English with a distinctive twang, thinking to ourselves, “Ang arte naman nito!”

The same judgmental attitude kicked in automatically when I met a couple of siblings who grew up here in Dubai. My friends and I would sneer whenever they would speak English even as we spoke to them in Tagalog; they insisted that they didn’t know the Pambansang Wika, but spoke Kapampangan at home instead.

I moved to the UAE with a heavy heart, prodded by my parents, thinking that I was committing the ultimate act of treason against the country I so love.

But it seems that distance could actually give one a better perspective.

Out here, one comes to realize how big the world truly is. How diverse cultures are, and how different (and ironically similar) to each other Filipinos of varying backgrounds are.

Being in a different country and existing with Filipinos from around the Philippines, I have realized how we Tagalogs sometimes discriminate against our own kind, thinking that the whole Filipino community should revolve around our language (when there are over 100 of them in the Philippines), and that our country is Manila – period.

I have also come to develop a new appreciation for our home looking at it with fresh eyes, but at the same time understanding that moving to another country is not only an opportunity, but also a right, as people follow their bliss around the world.

Most of all, I have realized that love for country does not reside in the superficial – skin color, language, personality traits, or even choosing to live back home, and that the capacity to contribute to the betterment of our motherland and our people is a reality even when you are a thousand miles away.

It is our sacred duty to hand down our traditions, to teach our children the values passed on to us through generations, and ignite the pride and love for country which every true Filipino nourishes in his heart. Our culture depends on that for its survival.

But in the same way that it is our responsibility to hold on to our roots, so should we also understand and accept the progressive evolution and the growing diversity within our community.

The Filipino is no longer limited by the virtual “four walls” of the barrio, or even the Philippines, for that matter. He exists in all corners of the globe, born and bred within and outside the homeland, in all skin colors, with different tongues and mindsets.

Despite the variations, we are all inevitably and undeniably tied together by one thing – the knowledge that we are all Filipinos fuelled by our love for family and the hope that our country will continue to rise successful, proud and free.

As we commemorate the 113th anniversary of Philippine Independence this month, let us further liberate ourselves by expanding our minds and ultimately embracing progress, tempered by being in touch with our roots.

These could only serve towards the continued enrichment of the Filipino existence.

Taas Noo, Filipino!

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

2 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Send your letters to: editor@illustrado.net or join the discussion at Ilustrado Magazine’s Facebook page

Hi! I just found your absolutely great magazine and I was wondering if I could apply for a summer job at your office or/and as a model? I am a half Filipina and living in Vienna, Austria.

I love the mag!

Sabine M. Langer Hi there, Sabine!

We operate from Dubai, so if you’re going to be in the UAE sometime soon, please do e-mail us at admin@ illustrado.net.

Ed

May’s Fitness Issue Proud of Illustrado I just came back from our month long vacation and while I was in Manila, I repeatedly read/browsed your magazine brought home by my younger Sister Elena from Dubai. It was the Philippine Independence Day Edition 2008, I think, where the cover was a Bb. Pilipinas winner (Kristine Alzar) wearing a white gown.

There was an article about Philippine historical sites like the Aguinaldo Shrine, Dambana ng Kagitingan, etc. and guess what, this inspired me to visit Rizal’s Monument, Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine, Baldomero Aguinaldo Shrine, and Battle of Imus Historical Mark. I was able to revisit the greatness of our heroes!

I was really happy that I have taken such initiative - I feel really proud of myself, proud of being Pinoy - and this was because of your magazine!

Illustrado is about being a Proud Pinoy Expat! It’s a magazine for ad honoring modern Filipino heroes!

Congratulations to your team for coming up with such idea. You are making us all proud and connected to our real Pinoy heritage.

Erwin Rollan Relox Super proud of Illustrado Magazine and your photographers – ang lupit!!

CK Calvendra Dear Lalaine and Team . . . I’m really proud of you guys ! ! ! TAAS NOO, PINOY ITO ! ! !

Eij Neb

illustrado Magazine

Finally, an issue on fitness! Thank you Illustrado for coming up with a very timely issue on body concerns.

I think it’s so so applicable to Pinoys since we really love to eat - and sometimes we overdo it – especially if we’re talking about “crispy pata,” “lechon,” and “binagoongan,” yum!

Also, I think most Pinoys would rather be couch potatoes on our free time – talk about DVD marathons during the weekend with matching snacks and “kakanin,” although I have a few friends who, since last year, have become hooked to exercising at Fitness First. More than anything, I think it’s the pressure to look good that motivates people to go exercise.

Anyway, for me, I still need to make “bwelo” and really get into the proper habit of moving. I’m just finding the right timing. I’ve been feeling quite tired lately and have been stresseating and my pants have started getting tighter. I know... I need to do something about this. So thanks for the reminder. Most appreciated.

Melo Contreras Congratulations to Illustrado for another great issue. Perfect photos and great model selection. I look at your photos for inspiration.

Don De Guzman Hello Dubai! Hello Illustrado!

I’m a Dubai newbie; I just arrived two months ago and found your magazine at my friend’s flat – yay! I wasn’t prepared for the sudden change of temperature here because when I

arrived it was still quite cool – in fact, hotter in Pinas. But now, I’ve become quite nervous because I’m losing so much hair in the shower. Maybe the water is too hot? I also gained a lot of weight. So, when I saw the article “The Other Dubai Syndrome,” it all clicked.

Thank you for the advice of Dr. Daffodils and Dr. Joey, very helpful in making me understand what’s happening to my body.

Antonette Baidingo

Filipino Men and Vanity Filipino men are sexually attractive not merely because they have the looks or the body, but because they are confident about their sexuality...they may not look attractive at first glance, but like they say, you are what you think you are. So if they feel and think that they are sexy, people will find them sexy.

Maja Layne Aggabao Zabala-Edejer I believe that Filipino men possess a real sense of self-esteem and attractiveness to others but not to the extent of vanity.

Anyone heard of “healthy narcissism”?

Enchie Perez Eureka! Somebody finally said it! Men, Filipino men, are really quite vain. I know that for sure because I see that in my boyfriend. He spends more time in the shower than I do – and I am already quite finicky about myself. He takes these long baths, and then, takes an even longer time grooming his hair with so many different “products,” and, check this out, he also is very particular about his nails – is that normal? He’s got lots of bottles of perfume in his drawer and don’t even get me started on his clothes – everything has to match! I used to joke with him that he’s just “OC” (obsessive, compulsive), but after reading your article, I’m beginning to think it’s a common thing with our men.

On the bright side, he always smells great and always looks handsome – oh well, I shouldn’t be complaining, right?

Rinna Tinsay

CONTRIBUTORS Bo Sanchez Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) awardee, best-selling author and respected speaker Bo Sanchez shares worthwhile words of wisdom with Illustrado readers in his monthly column on Spirituality. In this issue, Bo reveals “Money Doesn’t Buy Happiness.”

Alfred ‘Krip’ Yuson

Philippine literary legend Krip Yuson has earned distinctions as a literary author of over 20 other books — from poetry, short stories, children’s stories, biographies, and translation and has co-authored travel books (among these APA Insight Guide to the Philippines and Philippines: Islands of Enchantment). A Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature Hall-of-Famer, he has also received the SEAWrite (SouthEast Asia Writer’s) Award from Thai royalty and the UMPIL or Writers’ Union of the Philippines’ Gawad Balagtas for lifetime achievement.

Margarita Go Singco Holmes & Jeremy Baer Margarita Go Singco Holmes is a clinical psychologist and professor at the Department of Psychology, UP Diliman. She is a TV/radio personality and author of 17 books, several of which are best-sellers in the Philippines. Her column partner and partner-in-life, former banker Oxford University graduate Jeremy Baer is a psychotherapist-in-training who is currently working on his first book. Together they tackle relationship issues in their Illustrado column.

Ana Santos

Francisco Colayco

Illustrado Associate Editor Ana, writes for Philippine glossies as well as foreign wires on specific women’s issues, and also runs www.sexandsensibilities.com (SAS) and co-manages www.writersblockphilippines. com, as part of her advocacies as a journalist and sexual health advocate.

Personal finance guru of the Philippines Francisco J Colayco has several best-selling books to his credit, and an advocacy on teaching Filipinos how to prosper.

Every month, he discusses worthwhile tips on how OFs can make their hard-earned money work hard for them.

Rache Hernandez

Bernadette Reyes

UP Diliman graduate Rache Hernandez has a degree in Communication Research and currently works as a writer for a media/marketing company in Dubai.

Rache writes about another kind of independence in this month’s issue—financial independence.

Feeding the appetite of our readers for ‘negosyo’ talk every month is Illustrado contributor Bernadette Reyes. Bernadette is a GMA TV News Reporter, and a a former business reporter for Today Independent News, as well as an active contributor in various publications in and out of the Philippines.

Ivan Henares Ivan Henares is not only a popular travel blogger, a tourism lecturer and consultant; he is also a Philippine Heritage activist who sits as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Heritage Conservation Society. In this issue, Ivan takes us around northern Philippines by bus.

Angela Mapa

Freelance writer Angela Mapa wears a lot of hats. Never one to turn down a good project, she’s worked as a teacher, a candidate screener, a voiceover talent, a commercial model, a storyteller, a food stylist, a host and a product sample girl.

Though her roles and costumes constantly change, her love for food remains the same and is evident in her piece this month – The Taste of Memories of Home.

Filbert Kung and Glenn Peter Perez

The work of young photography duo Filbert Kung and Glenn Peter Perez have not only been featured in Philippine glossies, but also in various magazines around the world including - Aksam Turkey, Fashion Quarterly Canada, Schon Magazine London, and The Daily New York.

Publisher & Editor-in Chief Lalaine Chu-Benitez Associate Editor Ana Santos CONTRIBUTING WRITERS UAE, Philippines, USA Aby Yap JR Bustamante Anna Lorraine Balita Jude Cartalaba Bernadette Reyes Karen Galarpe Bo Sanchez KC Abalos Carlito Viriña Krip Yuson Chayie Maligalig Lawrence Diche David Poarch Rache Hernandez Excel Dyquiangco Shar Matingka Flordeliz Samonte Toni Loyola Francisco Colayco Sonny Guzman Isabel Warren Vic Lactaoen Isabelo Samonte Victor Sollorano Ivan Henares Jack Catarata Jesse Edep ART DIRECTORS Tom Bolivar Paula Lorenzo Ron Perez CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS UAE Eros Goze Mariyah Gaspacho Christina Linaza Illuminado Ong Donald Rosales CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS PHILIPPINES Dr. Marlon Pecjo Glenn Peter-Perez Filbert Kung Alan Desiderio CONTRIBUTING STYLISTS & FASHION TEAM UAE Zekundo Chu Jessie Tabla Ginno Alducente Ushi Sato Donald Rosales PUBLISHER - UAE Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2nd Floor, Building 2, P.O. Box 72280 Office 20C Dubai Media City, UAE Tel: +9714 365 4543, 365 4547 Fax:+9714 360 4771 E-mail: admin@illustrado.net, info@illustrado.net Web: www.illustrado.net, www.illustrado.agilaglobal.net PRINTERS PRINTWELL PRINTING LLC P.O. Box 18828 Dubai, UAE Copyright Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2006-2011. 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.

54

CONTENTS

JUNE 2011

Classic Filipina beauty Michelle Panemanglor captivates against the backdrop of the romantic Manila Bay in this month’s fashion feature.

90

FEATURES

Vox Pop: On Being Filipino 10 The Global Filipino: Will the Real Filipino Please Stand Up? 12 Rizal: The First Ilustrado 20 OF CEOs 24 OFs Towards Financial Independence 34 Wedded Bliss Gone Amiss 46

REGULAR COLUMNS

Illuminati: That Freedom Thing 8 It’s What I Do – Pinoy Talent On-the-Job Kabuhayan: Leyende Organic Skincare Business 30 Kabuhayan: Time and Compounding 38 Spirituality: Money Doesn’t Buy Happiness 40 Relationships: Kasal Lang Ako 44 Illustrado Scrapbook 52 Five Things to Do this Month 84 Food: The Taste of Memories of Home 86 Community 98 Onli in da Pilipins: “I” is for Independence100 Annie B Chronicles – 100% Pinoy 104

FASHION

From Manila with Love 54 Illustrado Runway – Albert Andrada 68 Illustrado Runway – Aldwin Guardiana 70 Here Comes the Haute Couture Bride 72

PLACES

My Pinoy Life in – Copenhagen, Denmark 90 Bakasyon Grande: Taking the North by Bus 94

72

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8 illumnati

ThaT

By Krip Yuson

freedom

The recent demise of National Artist for Literature Alejandro “Anding” Roces on the last week of May reminds us that among other heroics, he was primarily responsible for having our country’s former independence date of July 4 replaced by June 12.

Thing

In a bold move that was proposed to and accepted by then President Diosdado Macapagal, our supposed day of freedom was thus moved back not by just a month but by close to half a century.

The main argument against perpetuating the July 4, 1946 date of release from the eagle’s clutches, that is, the United States of America, was that it was practically decreed by our colonizers, and in fact coincided with their own Fourth of July commemoration of independence.

illustrado Magazine

On the other hand, June 12, 1898 had been the day our forbears struck a blow for a historical landmark by declaring Filipinas as the first republic in Asia — this as more than just an act of defiance, but rather a virtual slap on the face of our first colonizer, Madre España.

And so the Independence Day we had officially observed for nearly two decades was demoted to Fil-Am Day, in token deference to the USA, while that date of a previous century has now been memorialized for nearly double that period of time.

ILLUMINATI 9

Toss in freedom from ignorance. The bogey notion of exactly when human life begins is at a crossroads of appreciation, just as much as the dubious classification of condoms as abortifacients. One more step towards enlightenment would mean acceptance of such already hard-won policies of liberalism in more developed societies — where it comes to the legalization of abortion, divorce, prostitution, euthanasia, personal marijuana use, why, even stem-cell research.

In our own backyard, we may have been brought back to our version of the bloody Crusades or that mythic search for the Holy Grail, thus pointing to the dangers of blind faith when it features ignorance as handmaiden.

The palatable idea of gaining freedom from and not just of religion rests on such classic quotes as the following: “Give me the storm and tempest of thought and action rather than the dead calm of ignorance and faith; banish me from Eden if you will, but first let me eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge.” — Robert Green Ingersoll “The world is my country; to do good is my religion.”

— Thomas Paine “Imagine there’s no heaven / It’s easy if you try / No hell below us / Above us only sky...” — John Lennon

Contemporary cynics essay the proposition, however, that we have not been truly free as a people, and that this will not be so until we unshackle ourselves from the tyranny exercised by our own native-born rulers.

One may agree that it is a tyranny born of self-interest and greed, of a penchant for corruption as much as indifference or ineffectuality of governance.

Others maintain that true freedom has to be won against the prevailing dictates of tradition — inclusive of dynastic inclination, petty politics, regional factionalism, tribalism, and the often antiquated and anachronistic grip on national morals and conservatism by the Catholic Church.

The truth with regards to last has evidently gained a mint-fresh ring to it, now that the Philippine Congress, and, indeed, the Filipino people are feverishly engaged in a debate over the Reproductive Health or RH Bill. Clearly at stake here, and at the very core of the question, is the Filipina’s freedom of responsibility over her own body, as well as the Filipino couple’s so-called freedom of choice.

The fact that the historical personages quoted above happen to be two Americans and one Englishman may only indicate the legacy passed on as a torch of freedom from a mother state to its spawn. But, of course, the French may have earlier engendered that heady brew of liberté, fraternité, egalité long since enshrined in nations that have not only gained but made much of freedom.

Make that freedoms. As in Roosevelt’s “Four Freedoms.” Better yet, make it a myriad of freedoms. Then of course, we have the iconic musical rebel Janis Joplin intoning: “Freedom’s just another word for nothing left to lose.”

In our own parlance, that could well be translated into “Kapit sa patalim.” It is a quick step then to another metaphorical axiom, one that has done us proud, and not just musically, as a people of faith in sovereignty: “Ibon man may layang lumipad / Kulungin mo at umiiyak / Bayan pa kayang sakdal dilag... “ The freedom trail has many forked paths. It is by instinct of independent thought and exercise of free will that we make the right choices of direction, and thus abide by the right stuff.

The freedom thing will always be paramount in our minds and hearts. But indeed, it is in the exercise of free will — the freedom to think and to imagine — rather than abject reliance on the dictates of powers-that-be for the nonce, that we gain ultimate emancipation, as individuals and as a nation.

10 VOX POP

On Being a

Filipino As we commemorate 113 years of Philippine Independence, and as Filipinos move forward into the world, we ask ourselves – “What does being Filipino mean? How do we define the New Filipino? And what is the measure for true love for country?

Albert Alba

In the advent of new communications platform and technology, together with the fact that more and more Filipinos seem to be opting to work and live in places that have become melting pots of people coming from various countries, race and culture, the New Filipino is someone who is less conscious of his/her being Filipino but is more focused on being an excellent global citizen. Consequently, as one excels in whatever chosen career, profession, advocacy or undertaking, a significant factor would be one’s family, education, cultural and even religious background – or in our case, our Filipino heritage. And in measuring one’s true love for country, it isn’t all about how often one waves the flag or amplifies one’s being Filipino. It is on how we do our share in improving and developing our country and our countrymen’s ability and capability to live an honest and decent life.

Roll Jervis Manahan

The real Filipino in us is in our own consciousness, in our esteem, in our view of ourselves. Even born and raised in other corners of the world, we can grow up Filipinos at heart just as long as we embrace our culture and our lifestyles, etc. There is no grand masterlist of criteria of being Filipino. If we love our country and if we are proud of our blood, I think that’s enough for someone to be called a Real Pinoy.

Our nationality must not be bound by geographic boundaries. Many Filipinos like me are born, bred, and raised in other countries but we must not be treated as any less of being Filipinos. Being in foreign countries is not tantamount into being turncoats to the homeland.

We share the same blood, the same pride, the same identity. And as such, I’m just as proud, or even prouder of being Pinoy.

Cory Corrigan

The New Filipino is confident and assured. He is able to define himself and knows his place in the world. He is true in his convictions and strong in his belief. He is modern and yet keeps his cultural character with family as the basis of his existence. I am a proud Filipina.

illustrado Magazine

Sunith Lobo

My kids don’t speak nor understand a word of Tagalog but they proudly identify themselves as half Filipino among their peers. After 21 years of marriage (to the same Filipina!), I can also identify with the pride, passion and pain of the average Filipino. Heck, I even watch every Pacquaio fight!

Jean Xee

Language does not make a Filipino, we do have a lot of dialects in our country - for one, a lot of Filipinos don’t necessarily talk Tagalog. It is our spirit, heritage and abilities that make us unique amongst other nationalities. Well, at least that’s what I think.

Joseph Clifford P. Bulanon

The New Filipino? They are on top! Fighting with their voices, with their punches, with their creative minds and with their dedication to reach the victory of success. Yes, they are still in the battle - the battle of proving themselves to show the world that they can be better and can be the best in their chosen field. Dedication, hard work and talent could be sharper than any sword! This “illustrates” me, you, us - the New Filipino!

Ibahn Francisco

I grew up here and the first thing I’ve learned about our culture is having family values, being very family oriented and striving to give our family the best life. For me, being Filipino is all about the values and respect which I have inherited from my parents. It is not just about skin color, mannerisms or even language. Being Filipino is about who you are and how your parents raised you. It comes from within and it cannot be practiced nor rehearsed – it’s just “you.” Being Filipino should be based upon our pride in being Filipinos, as we continue being humble and treating everyone equally, while helping our country and countrymen to improve and earn respect and recognition.

Ernie Sasis

Mixed, half, quarter, full - it doesn’t matter. What’s most important is that those people who trace their roots and culture back to the Philippines are the ones that are defined as Filipinos. There are full filipinos in the states that don’t know they’re pinoy! There are those who don’t look Filipino but are! So all in all, it’s a heart and mindset!

12 feature

Global Filipino:

Will the Real Filipino Please Stand Up?

By Ana Santos

Author Matthew Paul Narciso once wrote about our food saying that “the most colorful of Asian food selections that display an amalgamation of cultures, but are dominantly Filipino to its deepest roots.”* He could also be speaking about the Filipino himself who is actually a cultural amalgamation of our different ancestors and colonizers. Our color and blood – in fact, even our blood is mixed. Our first settlers weren’t exactly from the Philippine archipelago, either.

The Filipino continues evolving, a consequence of how our demographics and geography are changing, prodded by technology that is making the world smaller and smaller — a global village, as they says — but a globalized village, nonetheless.

But as history shows us, there were no “pure” Filipinos to begin with.

The earliest known inhabitants of the Philippines, the Negritos, were said to have come from the Asian mainland, reaching our country through ancient land bridges. We had the Malays crossing over to our shores and later the Westerners and the Japanese each laying a claim on our islands. The hundreds of years of colonization merged and blurred cultural differences to give way to cultural assimilation and amalgamation.

illustrado Magazine

These days, we have a rising community of half-breed Filipinos, as well as Third Culture Filipinos who were born and brought up in different parts of the world, who might look and sound different from their homeland based counterparts, and who have an expatriate sub-culture that is unique, but still distinctively Filipino.

These different cultures, bloodlines and identities have converged into what is now known as the global Filipino. And therefore, quite rightly so, the definition of being “Pinoy” cannot be based solely on skin color, the ability to speak the Tagalog language fluently, or birthplace — which, although may be linked to citizenry, does not change one’s ethnicity and origin.

FEATURE 13

THIrd CUlTUre FIlIPInoS SPeAk oUT A growing group within the Global Filipino community across the world, Third Culture kids (TCks) or second generation Filipino expatriates, are mostly faced with trials in their search for their national identity, as well as how to co-exist with the rest of the Filipino community at home and abroad. often unrepresented and misunderstood, here TCks speak out about their challenges and what being Filipino means to them. Their experiences and insights teach us that there is a need for greater understanding and widening our definition of what being truly Filipino means.

Patricia Fermazi

Filipina on the outside, Am-Girl on the inside

Having spent most of my growing up years in the United States, the Philippines was a remote country that I had only heard of, the demographic statistic that pronounced where I was born. This left me in much of a quandary. My classmates, who were second generation immigrants were born in the US and could therefore, claim to be Fil-American. I was not born in the US, and neither were one of my parents white, so neither could I claim being Fil-AM as a matter of genealogy. So I walked the line of being a Filipino living in the United States. In the San Francisco Bay Area, this was hardly unusual or out of the ordinary.

I came back to the Philippines in 1986 — after seven straight years of being abroad - back to the country I had only previously heard of and which would now be home.

I remember seeing softdrinks served in plastic bags and poked with a straw, the so many people it took to bag, tag and tally up my purchase in SM, and thought: This is not how we do it in the States.”

Born in the Philippines, lived in Bahrain for seven years and the rest of her life in the UAE learning about Filipino culture is a toughie – I never experienced living in the Philippines. I knew how to speak Tagalog at home, and I learnt english in British schools where I studied. Sadly, I only learned about our native culture through The Filipino Channel (TFC) - I saw the sights and sounds of Philippines’ great happenings through TV. I only realized the difficulties of being a kid raised outside Philippines in high school when I felt different from the kids from Filipino schools. We always had these activities and performances, like dancing “tinikling” dance, which I had no idea of, but I was expected to know.

For a time I had this sort of identity denial in high school – I hated being Pinoy – the people in my school would have a lot of negative stereotypes about Filipinos or would associate me with things my race is known for. I felt segregated; I hated it because my features were clearly Filipino, but my personality wasn’t. last year, when I interned in the Philippines for a college requirement, I was ecstatic to experience the Philippine life, having accepted who I am and what I’m not. However, at work I was introduced as “the intern from dubai” and that label spread like wild fire. Most people in company haven’t travelled outside Philippines, and there I was – the girl who grew up in the Middle east and who can speak english fluently. every time I would ask questions, it seemed more of a competition rather than teamwork – it was like, “why are you asking these questions, I thought your schools in dubai taught you this?” It became clear to me that even in my home country, I don’t completely belong.

I hated being called “conyo” for knowing english - people love to judge that about TCks. There I was speaking fluent Tagalog and I’m still off.

Adjustments? I taught myself to be tougher, because quite honestly I tried and I was shunned. So if people would like to converse with me – let’s! Treat me like an equal at the least, or don’t speak to me at all.

Clearly, I stopped giving a damn what people expected from me.

This is a topic most of my Filipino friends have discussed, as we all grew up abroad. I think we’ve learnt to set our own standards of what is and what is not. For example, I want to be and I am Filipino but I don’t want to be “Pinoy” - as the term is associated with Wowowee,

14 feature Spanish, and many of us are forced to migrate abroad for better economic opportunities - yet we are all still connected as Filipinos because of our pride and heritage.”

Vince Golangco shares a similar view. Golangco grew up in San Diego, CA and came back to the Philippines on holiday. He found it very easy to make friends and build connections. “I guess it helps that people in the Philippines are generally more shy in a way, and I’m friendly enough to go up to them and start a conversation.”

The “we” in these statements detaching myself from the Philippines and desperately trying to hold on to my “American roots” even though I no longer lived there.

It was here in what should be my “home,” the Philippines, where I actually felt a bit scorned — ironically. It was when I actually looked like everyone else when I was singled out by skepticism and derision, mainly because of the way I talked: I looked like everyone one, but didn’t sound like everyone else.

And with my straighter than an arrow black hair matched with my very brown skin, my manner of speaking — my accent, my twang — was perceived to be fake, a pretentious way of showing off or as called in the 80s, “so trying hard.”

Patricia Tumang, a Filipina and daughter of first generation immigrants, was born and raised in the US. Patricia was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to do a research study about the women of Malolos and their legacy. The scholarship allowed her to go back to the Philippines, but even after her research was done, she chose to stay in the Philippines.

“Being a real Filipino doesn’t mean that I have to be born in the Philippines. Being a Filipino is about love and appreciation of our country and its historical legacy and culture. Growing up in the U.S., I juggled many identities: as a woman, a Filipino, and an American, to name a few,” Patricia explains.

“Moving to the Philippines in 2009 wasn’t necessarily a search for what it meant to be authentically Filipino because there is no such thing. I came to the Philippines to learn more about my heritage and how to speak Tagalog better,” says Patricia whose American twang is a dead giveaway of her childhood years.

But to her it doesn’t’ matter. “Not speaking Tagalog well does not diminish me as a Filipina. The Philippines brutal history of colonization has left all less connected to our indigenous cultures and languages. English is the language of instructions in all schools; we watch American movies, speak Taglish, most of our surnames are

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It’s been two years since Vince went to the Philippines on holiday, and he hasn’t left. There have been many reasons for him to stay. He is now creative director of When In Manila, a highly successful video blog that allows him to travel to different parts of the Philippines and write about it. He is also TV host of a tech TV show and a radio DJ on a popular FM station.

“Just like the world is being globalized, I believe that our visions, ideals and “who-we-are” notions are being globalized as well. I’m a citizen of the world, of mother Earth. I do consider myself a “real” Filipino just as much as I consider myself a “real” American and just a “real” human being,” explains Golangco.

“Don’t get me wrong, I am very proud to be Filipino,” Golangco, who says he loves eating balut says, “But I think we should think progressively in a united global effort rather than waste time bickering about silly labels like what a “real” Filipino is. I AM “real,” period! I am who I am and I do not need to be defined by a label.”

Will the real Filipino please stand up?

There are more and more Filipinos like Tumang and Golangco who call themselves Filipino but may not sound like it – or, like in the case of the highly popular Azkals, don’t even look like it.

The Azkals are a testament to the growing fusion of East and West, but more than being Filipino is not just a matter of the way you look or a matter of the way you sound. The latter are aesthetic, superficial factors that belie that being Pinoy is really about being patriotic; it is something that is really inside and should not be based on some myopic definition.

So whether it’s Tumang’s desire to pay tribute to the women of Malolos, Golangco’s own brand of Pinoy Pride live streaming in various parts of the globe or the Azkals carrying the Philippine flag across the field and standing up to “Lupang Hinirang” — being Filipino is found in the heart and in the mind — the places where it cannot be readily seen, but nonetheless, felt and mostly, lived out. *Article reference: http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/296493

FEATURE 15 boys in oversized jerseys and girls in toilet slippers on the streets. This might be harsh, but we believe that the term “Filipino” is associated with pride and cultural knowledge - someone who can eat karekare and enjoy a tricycle ride, but can say the word “fish” without mixing up the “P” and “F.” A Filipino is someone who is culturally informed about the Philippines and at the same time is aware and informed about the world; a person who serves and contributes to the Philippine nation, wherever they are residing in. A Filipino is not a physical trait but someone who acts for the love of the nation and gives pride and inspiration for the Filipino people; it is a state of mind.

You and I are the babies of the new world, hybrids of different cultures with no physical home but in ourselves and amongst ourselves. This is not a weakness but a strength. I don’t live in the Philippines and I never did – but I do hold a symbolic flag in my head from every country I lived in and where I’m from - and Philippines is one of it. Difference is an asset and the world is very fortunate to have different people.

Kyla Sollano

Born in the Philippines and raised in the UAE for 15 years I basically learned about Filipino culture when I started school specifically at PISCO Private School in Abu Dhabi.

Unfortunately, I felt a bit discriminated by other Filipinos when I went back home to Cebu to go to college. Since I grew up in a different country, I only knew how to speak Tagalog and English, and some Arabic words. I had no background whatsoever on the Visayan language, so I mostly spoke in English. People who knew about my situation understood me, but the rest, would make fun of me and say that I’m “maarte” or a socialite or high and mighty, etc. I tried not to mind them, though I tried to better myself by learning Bisaya which was kind of hard, but I got by eventually with friends helping me out.

My message for the other TCK kids out there is not to be afraid of your own heritage. It may be scary at first since you just read it from the books or hear it from TV. But overall, it feels good to know you actually have somewhere you belong to. There may be other people who might make you feel different, but just be confident and know that there are other people like friends, family, and relatives to back you up when you need a little push.

Third Lumapas

Born in the UAE, lived in Cagayan de Oro for four years before eventually going back to the emirates As a TCK, I grew up with kids of different social and cultural backgrounds which allowed me to see and get along with different people. I learned Filipino culture from my parents and during my last years in high school when I transferred to a Filipino School.

To me the greatest challenge about being a Filipino TCK was that I could not speak Tagalog - as we only spoke our native language, Bisaya, at home and English elsewhere. I experienced discrimination when I was in my 3rd year of high school. My classmates used to say I was an alien, an outsider; every time I spoke in English, I was called “maarte.” Yes I did make a lot of adjustments. I started hanging out with Filipinos and played basketball with them. I had music sessions with them and started listening to Filipino music, until I learned how to speak Tagalog fluently.

As Filipinos, we should not judge anyone especially those who grew up outside the Philippines. Regardless of where they were brought up, we should all be one. Just because we grew up elsewhere, that does not make us any less Filipino. What sets us apart from the others as Filipinos is our love for family - our family orientation goes beyond kin and friends, and may even extend to strangers. So we should accept everyone as one.

Alia Ceniza Rasul

Born in the Philippines, grew up in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, currently living in Canada

Language has always been interesting to me. My parents are from different parts of the Philippines, and as such speak different dialects – namely Bisaya and Tausug. As English was the language that was spoken in their schools growing up, they were exposed to it more than they were to Tagalog. As a result, they were more comfortable using it as their common language of choice. English became the main language used at our home. However my brothers and I understand not just Tagalog, but both dialects as well.

Speaking Tagalog has always been a struggle - I speak Taglish, at best. I have always wished that I could speak it better. It’s my “tell.”

As soon as I speak Tagalog, people immediately know that I grew up abroad. I have often felt a little alienated because of it. Growing up, I couldn’t help but have an identity crisis. I was labeled as a foreigner in the country I lived in, but I was also labeled as foreign in my own country. “You’re NOT REALLY Filipino!” is something that I’ve often heard during my visits to the Philippines. I am labeled as “from Dubai” or more recently, “Canadian.” But when in Saudi, Dubai or Montreal, I am known as Filipino.

What defines a true Pinoy? I believe that knowledge of the language, and being of mixed race are shallow parameters to judge by. What can they tell you about a person’s belief system and values, how can they measure how much someone loves his or her country and its culture? To judge one’s language, upbringing is discrimination.

I believe that ‘Filipino’ is an identity that transcends the limits of social background, language, faith and even race. I’ve met people from other countries who have simply fallen in love with the country and the culture and proudly refer to themselves as ‘Kabayan’. If you identify yourself as a Filipino, you are Filipino. No one has the right to tell you otherwise.

Interestingly, it is OFs who have become the face of Philippine culture to the world. For many people around the world, we are the first Filipinos that they’ll ever meet! Being a good representative of Filipino culture is a responsibility that should be taken to heart.

Now, at 24, and an OF myself, I’ve learned to stop apologizing for my lack of “Filipino-ness” and instead, appreciate the unique perspective that my rich cultural heritage and my experiences abroad have given me. I’ve learned to accept that I am not any less Filipino than those who were born and raised back home.

Given the rich diversity of our culture, there are already many kinds of Pinoys: there are Tausugs, Cebuanos, Bicolanos, Illocanos and far more whose identities are very distinct but are all very Filipino in their own way! The generation of Filipino TCKs is just the result of another evolution in our culture: we are a new breed of Filipinos.

Since cultures and identities grow and evolve with time, it’s only fitting that our own definitions and preconceptions should too.

A M M 010 C t a ds 2 t s i al war n i s F edia A a en e M s o Ch ippin l i h P

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18 ADVERTORIAL With a dual strategy to also invest in its physical presence in the region, Giordano has intensified upgrades of current stores and plan to open at least six more stores in 2011.

Ishwar Chugani, Executive Director, Giordano Fashions LLC., said: “…we constantly need to evolve and assess our relationships and interfaces with customer, and get our products closer to them. We recognize the importance and the depth of the digital world as well as the phenomenal influence on consumer decision-making and that is why we want to ensure that Giordano maximizes the potential of both the social media and digital world here.”

Giordano ushers in new era of e-tail Clothing essentials retailer intensifies digital and social media presence in region. Expansion plans underway with the opening of first stores in Morocco and Iraq Giordano is introducing e-shopping via its website www.giordanome.com this year, strengthening its card less customer loyalty program World Without Strangers (WWS), and reaching out to thousands of customers through various digital and social media channels like Facebook, Twitter, Blogs and YouTube.

“Through YouTube, Twitter, our Giordano Blog and our Middle East Facebook page which currently has 29,000 fans and expected to grow to 50,000 by the end of this year, we now have direct and personal interactions with our customers on a daily basis. For us, it is very important to know and understand what their thoughts are to enable us to provide the products and services they really want,” added Chugani.

Giordano will also continue to upgrade existing stores and open new stores. This year, Giordano has already completed the renovation of six stores in the region, opened five new stores in the UAE, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia and has also opened its first stores in Morocco and Iraq. Giordano will also be entering the Sri Lankan market this year.

To date, Giordano has over 190 stores in the region and at least 10 more stores are set to open in the region before the end of the year.

Recently, Giordano’s Burjuman outlet was awarded “Best Service Performing Outlet” for 2010 in the Apparel Category by the Dubai Service Excellence Scheme.

New Nokia E6 QWERTY Plus Touch Smart Phone

“The Middle East social media consumption is growing at a rapid pace, with nearly 2 million Facebook accounts alone in UAE. The Nokia E6 brings a unique touch and type user experience that was designed to help satisfy the different interactivity demands of the most social users.” said Kareem Moussa, Head of Marketing, Nokia, Lower Gulf.

Additionally, the growing phenomenon “What’s App” application is also available for download on the Nokia E6 through the Ovi store and can be directly billed to their Etisalat account.

“Nokia E6 users will also be treated to great local applications to keep them up to date with local news and events as well as updates from their favorite media providers such as Gulf News, Al Arabiya and Radio 4.” added Moussa.

Nokia has announced the first Nokia smart phone featuring a full QWERTY key pad paired with a capacitive touch screen.

This latest addition to the Nokia lineup of feature rich smart phones is packed full with applications to keep even the most social users satisfied with its selection of social networking functionality. Live feeds from Facebook and Twitter accounts directly on the home screen plus it has an 8 megapixel camera.

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The Nokia E6 is also the first E Series smart phone that will have the new Symbian Anna software user experience. This update offers a host of usability enhancements, including fresh, new icons, improved text input, easier and faster internet browsing experience and a refreshed Ovi Maps application with improved search and new free real time traffic updates to smart phone users in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

20 FEATURE

Rizal:

The First Ilustrado By: Anna Oposa

“Rizal’s greatest misfortune was becoming a national hero of the Philippines, He is everywhere, and therefore nowhere.” ~ Dr. Ambeth R. Ocampo, Rizal historian.

There are statues of Jose Rizal as far as Hong Kong, Australia, Alaska, and Mexico and even almost one hundred fifty years after his birth, Jose Rizal remains the most revered, most controversial, and most talked about Filipino. Anna Oposa talks to one of Rizal’s descendants and gets to know more about the man that we have put on a pedestal—quite literally.

illustrado Magazine

FEATURE 21 Studying Jose Rizal’s life and works is something we Pinoys are mandated to do in order to obtain both our high school and college diplomas. We quote him, describe the characters of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, and look forward to his death anniversary, because it is a national holiday. We may have even heard of beliefs and theories about our dear Pepe: some say Adolf Hitler or Mao Zedong was his illegitimate son, others believe he is part of the Holy Trinity, and there are those who swear that he was Jack the Ripper.

But for the most part, he seems to be nothing more than a man we have put on a pedestal—quite literally, considering the number of Rizal shrines and monuments around the country and abroad.

Now that his 150th birth anniversary is coming up, Rizal is even more omnipresent—literally, “everywhere”... Metro Manila’s major roads and highways are full of publicity materials leading up to his 150th birth anniversary. The Department of Tourism, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, the Department of Education, and the Intramuros Administration, and Rock Ed Philippines are just some of the organizations creating nationwide events to commemorate his life. These events range from art exhibits to lecture series. To ensure that all these celebrations don’t lead Rizal to “nowhere,” his descendants and their friends are cooperating with these agencies under the name MyRizal150 to keep the fire burning.

At the forefront of this initiative is Lisa Bayot, Rizal’s great grandniece. Her great grandmother is Saturnina Rizal, Pepe’s eldest sister. She married Manuel T. Hidalgo, and had one son named Alfredo, Lisa’s lolo. As a young student at Assumption College and Miriam College, Lisa didn’t think of the bloodline as anything extraordinary. Acknowledging her revered great granduncle meant visiting her grandmother, the wife of Alfredo, every 19th of June, and accompanying her for the wreath-laying program at Rizal Park on the 30th of December. “I guess I took the connection for granted,” admits Lisa.

It wasn’t until the ‘90s when Lisa wanted to be more involved. She had been living in America for eleven years, pursuing a career in interior design. She met a foreigner who spoke passionately about Rizal’s body of work. This encounter encouraged Lisa to find out more about the late hero. When she came home to the Philippines, she began attending meetings related to Rizal events. “The more I learned of him, the stronger my admiration grew, and the more proud I became to be a descendant,” Lisa shares.

Now Lisa talks about her late great grand tito with fondness. “As a young boy, Rizal was conscious of his short stature and frail body,” Lisa says. “Our national hero stood only about 5’2 But he made an effort to compete with boys his age. My great grandfather Manuel made him skip, run, and jump. At such a young age, Rizal already exhibited a strong will to improve himself.” Lisa also lets Rizalian values guide her in making big decisions. “I think about what he stood for: honor, love for country, importance

of education, and passion to gain more knowledge,” she muses.

These ideals inspired Lisa and a handful of individuals to improve the state of education in the Philippines. In 2008, they founded Binh, a non-government organization that provides low-cost learning manuals to teach English literacy to Filipino children between six to nine years old. “And people always ask, ‘Why English?’” she shares. What would our national hero, who said “ang hindi magmahal sa sariling wika, daig pa ang hayop at malansang isda,” think about this?

Lisa responds with another anecdote: “In his work Letter to the Young Women of Malolos, he said that education was the key to nation building. We’re not just teaching English, we’re teaching children to read.”

In addition to her (voluntary) work with Binhi, Lisa is also spearheading the plans and programs behind MyRizal150. She describes MyRizal150 as “a group of family and friends who want to celebrate Rizal’s life through events in education, academia, and culture,” says Lisawho . lights up when she talks about the upcoming projects of MyRizal150. “We want the celebration of his life to go beyond June 19. To make it really meaningful, we need more than an event or party.”

A Rizal-themed tour in Laguna with Carlos Celdran and Dapitan with InoManalo are in the works. To bring Pepe closer to the youth, MyRizal150 is working with the Department of Education to launch a nationwide writing contest in August, also known as the Buwan ng Wika to students. For the grade school division, the theme is “Liham Kay Rizal,” while high school students will write their “Pangako Kay Rizal.” This project would have made our national hero proud, because he believed that “ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan.”

22 FEAturE

WWJD: What Would Jose (Rizal) Do?

Many of the issues that Rizal fought against and wrote so passionately about and Lisa muses that if her grand tito Pepe were alive today, he would have a lot to say about the ongoing debates and issues. As a staunch critic of the Catholic Church, he would be part of the panelists pushing for the Reproductive Health Bill. He would also be advocating for better public health programs. The internationally trained ophthalmologist practiced medicine in farflung islands like Dapitan. He may even be active in combating the effects of climate change, because he turned Dapitan into what appears to be a model for climate change mitigation. During his four-year exile in the southern Philippine island, he established a school for boys, constructed an irrigation system that provided clean water to the locals, and promoted community development projects.

But what would he think of the all the hype leading to his sesquicentennial birthday? “He was not one to seek publicity,” says Lisa. “But we can look at it as an opportunity to explore what Rizal means to us as a people, and for us to feel the Rizal within us.” Lisa continues, “Rizal is for everyone. One need not be a Rizal descendant or come from a specific country. He transcends time, geography and race.”

The activities lined up for the month of June and beyond are intended to remind us that Jose Rizal is not just a statue standing on Kilometer 0. He was the first Ilustrado; he was a man who lived for his convictions and beliefs before he died for it.

Calendar of Activities Date: June 3, 6:30PM (Exhibit runs until October 29)

Activity: Opening of RIZALizing the Future Venue: Yuchengco Museum, RCBC Building

Date: June 19 Activity: Every Runner, a Finisher; Every Finisher, a Winner: a 1- or 2-kilometer walk or run Venue: nationwide Agency: Department of Education Division Offices

Dates: June 14-17 Activity: screening of 13 episodes of the telemovie Noli Me Tangere

by National Artist Eddie Romero and “Mga Kwentong Rizal”, a storytelling session for children/youth Venue: Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila

illustrado Magazine

Date: June 17 Activity: “J. P., Ang Gig ni Rizal,” featuring the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra’s maestro Olivier Ochanine, and Ballet Philippines’ Candice Adea and JM Cordero.

Date: June 20 Activity: a special non-working holiday to commemorate the 150th birthday of the country’s national hero Dr. Jose Rizal.

Dates: June 17-August 21 Activity: An exhibition of paintings on Rizal

by J. Pasena Venue: Main Gallery, CCP

Dates: June 17-July 31 Activity: Mural exhibit by Pilipinas Street Plan Venue: 2nd floor hallway, CCP

Date: June 19 Activity: Release of the collaborative single by Ely Buendia, Sandwich, Gloc-9, EbeDancel, Jett Pangan, Peryodiko, Hijo, Aiza Seguerra and Radioactive Sago Project. This is intended to be a preview of an album that will feature songs covering the life and works of Rizal, leading to the Rock Rizal concert slated in September 2011 Agency: Rock Ed Philippines

Date: June 14, 8AM-5PM Activity: “Rizal’s Catalytic Role in Philippine-German Relations,” Dr. Ambeth R. Ocampo, Guest Speaker Venue: Alexander Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany

Date: June 17, 2-5PM Activity: Recognition of Dr. Jose Rizal as Environmental Planner Venue: Development Academy of the Philippines, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

Date: June 19, 7-10AM Activity: Commemorative Program for the 150th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal Venue: Rizal Shrine, Calamba, Laguna, and Rizal Park, Manila

Date: June 22-24 Activity: “Rizal in the 21st Century: Local & Global Perspective,” a forum that is expected to bring together researchers and practitioners engaged in Rizal Studies and Philippine Studies from all over the world Venue: GT Toyota Auditorium, Asian Center, UP Diliman

24 feature

OF CEOs

By Bernadette Reyes

At this moment some 11 million Filipinos are overseas, each with their own stories to tell about life elsewhere. Some may share stories of hardship, sadness and despair, yet, by and large, stories of success, happiness and hope exist – stories that proud Overseas Filipinos (OF) will pack along with their suitcases upon their return to the Philippines.

Jocot de Dios has one of those OF stories. Once a government employee in the Philippines, Jocot is now the Managing Director and CEO of Nido Petroleum - an Australian company specializing in oil and gas exploration and production. Prior to this post, Jocot was a lawyer working with the Department of Energy as an Undersecretary. He later established an energy-consulting Jocot de Dios firm. Nido Petroleum was one of the firm’s first clients, and saw him fit for the post. “The position was offered to me by former Managing Director Dave Whitby. Since the company’s assets are offshore Northwest Palawan, he felt it would be best if the CEO were a Filipino who understood the Philippine business environment and could sell the country as an investment destination while giving Nido the profile it deserves,” said Jocot.

His story is nowhere similar to that of the abused OFs often portrayed in the news. Rather, he speaks of a life of bliss in Perth, together with his family. A generous salary, better medical coverage and allowances for education and housing are just some of the many perks he receives. “We are able to bond together as a family and take advantage of all that Australia has to offer - sports activities, amazing places to visit and all the amenities a first world country has to offer,” he said.

However grand life may seem to be abroad, some countries still fail

illustrado Magazine

to recognize the qualifications of Filipino professionals. While a Filipino may work jobs beneath what he qualifies for, dedication and commitment are, for Jocot, keys to success. “If he works hard enough he will eventually move on and even excel in his chosen field,” he said. As the only Filipino in the company’s Perth office and perhaps the only Filipino CEO of an ASX listed company, Jocot stands proud. “One thing I have found absolutely delightful about working in Nido is the level of acceptance and support everyone in the office has given me,” he said.

One thing we can learn from Jocot’s experience is that Filipinos can be as good as professionals in other nations, if not better. “Whether I am negotiating a deal with a major oil company or going on the road in the Americas and Europe, I know that the guy at the other end of the table considers me, a Filipino, worth his time, effort and investment. Wherever I go, I sell not only Nido Petroleum, but the Philippines as well,” said Jocot.

Another prime example is Rommel Roque. He started his career in sales and marketing. After earning his Masters Degree in Tokyo, Rommel moved back to the Philippines where he worked for a Japanese company until he was promoted to regional marketing manager in Singapore. He decided to come home and work as the president of a local IT firm. He later, in varying degrees, managed five companies until he received a call from ManpowerGroup to head its operations in the Philippines. Rommel took a leap of faith and accepted the offer. ManpowerGroup is not just any company; it places 163rd in the Fortune 500 list. A year later he became director for Japan operations to manage its Borderless Talent Solutions (BTS) group. “I was considered to join ManpowerGroup Japan to

feature 25 Any concerns about being a Filipino and working overseas have long been erased in Rommel’s memory. He gets along well with everyone including his counterparts in other countries. “I believe that people now look past a person’s ethnic background and see only his qualities.

I am able to show that we are just as good as any nationality,” he said.

Brain drain is a phenomenon that still persists on Philippine soil.

Though most Filipino professionals like Rommel and Jocot want to remain in the country, the lack of opportunities forces them to migrate. DOLE spokesperson Nicon Fameronang, however, believes that there will be a way to bring our citizens home.

Rommel Roque and his family

bring in fresh ideas on how to open up the company’s traditionally inward-looking operations and inject some diversity into the team,” said Rommel.

The opportunity to provide his children with better education and a unique perspective on culture is just one of the reasons why Rommel decided to migrate with his family. His move also allows him to “jump ahead of the class” career-wise. “The financial package provides immediate benefits, but the education my children gain from the experience of living overseas are, to me, more important.

It also gives my wife and I more closeness because bottom line is we only have each other,” Rommel said.

Even with his successful career overseas, Rommel still supports fellow Filipinos. “Providing work opportunities for people is something I really enjoy doing, so joining ManpowerGroup made the best sense for me to do this at a bigger scale,” he said. Rommel has changed the lives and families of some 60 Filipino IT engineers, all of whom he successfully hired through the company. “Everyone is happy. All of them love the opportunity to be here and absorb all the benefits they can gain from this experience,” Rommel said.

Even when abroad, Filipinos are more than great talents. “These engineers have elevated the image of the Filipino not just as intelligent and excellent workers but also as a people with the heart and courage for commitment,” said Rommel. Days after the devastating catastrophe that hit Japan on March 11, while most foreign-owned companies have asked their people to stay home, these Filipino engineers reported to work without fail to ensure their systems remained intact. “They had to walk for hours as most means of transport were down. I burst with pride at how they have become true ambassadors for our people,” he said.

President Aquino has said so himself. His inaugural speech reads, “Our goal is to create jobs at home so that there will be no need to look for employment abroad. However, as we work towards that end, I am ordering the DFA, POEA, OWWA, and other relevant agencies to be even more responsive to the needs and welfare of our overseas Filipino workers.” And he’s well on his way to fulfilling that goal.

Of the 22-point Labor Policy Agenda rolled out by President Aquino, 11 are geared toward OFs. PHP1 billion has been allocated as reintegration fund through the Filipino Workers Research Center.

This includes an employment facility service for OFs who want to be re-employed locally. Business counseling, orientation and networking are also provided for those who would like to start their own businesses.

Fameronag admits that, with the current state of Philippine economy, migration will still persist. It is, after all, well within the rights of Filipinos today. He assures however, that concerned agencies are working toward the realization of the President’s oath. “We are in the process of formulating the Balik-Pilipinas Program. We have OFs working for big multinational companies. We want them to share their expertise and knowledge from abroad to Filipinos here through an apprenticeship program,” he said.

There are Filipinos like Jocot and Rommel who are having the time of their lives overseas but, at the right time, will be packing their suitcases and coming home. For Rommel, migration is the “new standard” but the Philippines is where his heart is. He said, “OFs contribute a tremendous amount to the annual GDP. OFs will eventually come back to take higher positions and become more productive.” Jocot also takes the same stance. “I do not intend to stay an OF forever. I love my country and will return in the future to contribute in any way I can,” Jocot said.

26 PINOY PRO Celebrating the Professional Pinoy

Aries Vitan Wong Emergency Room Head Nurse Muscat Private Hospital Aries has come a long way from receiving his nursing degree in St. Joseph College Cavite City. He started out his career in nursing at his hometown, and soon sought better opportunities abroad.

Since then, he’s worked at Armed Forces Hospital Southern Region (2001) and Kingdom Hospital (2004), both in Saudi Arabia.

Now in his mid-thirties, Aries currently works as the head nurse of the emergency department at Muscat Private Hospital, the premier private hospital in Oman. There, he does routine check-ups and attends to his nursing staff, assigning them their tasks for the day ahead.

Despite all the satisfaction his current job provides, Aries admits that watching his nursing team - Filipino nurses, most especially - grow under his supervision gives him the fulfillment he needs in his career.

Scrubs off, Aries is a father to three kids - Shane and twins John and Paul - with his wife Geralyn, a midwife by profession. Aries is also fond of taking shots of his family and the scenic countryside with his DSLR.

Randy Esporma Postrado Food & Beverage Manager Desert Islands Resort and Spa, Abu Dhabi Randy graduated with a B.S. Hotel and Restaurant Management degree from La Consolacion College, Bacolod City. He’s delved into almost every facet of the hospitality industry since then.

Starting out as a waiter in Delta Philippine Dream Hotel and Entertainment Center in Cebu, he worked his way up and achieved the position of Food and Beverage Manager five years later.

Randy spent the latter part of his career abroad, working for several resorts in Abu Dhabi, Oman and even the Maldives. Presently, he works at the Desert Islands Resort and Spa in Abu Dhabi, where he started out as a Specialty Restaurant Manager. After six months of commendable performance, he was promoted to Training Manager, a post he retained for one and a half years.

He eventually found his way back to the Food and Beverage (F&B) department, and currently works as an F&B manager in the same resort. At 35, Randy admits that the best parts of his career are the individuals he meets and the amazing stories he has shared with them over the years. He’s also proud of where he stands now as a professional, able to be of service to himself and others, especially to kababayans who work under him.

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Shirley Ann Aldana Administration Manager The Music Institute, Dubai A B.S. Physical Therapy graduate from De La Salle University, 38-year old Shirley Ann Aldana has indeed risen to great heights. She started out as a Benefits Coordinator in Medical Centre Imus, a tertiary hospital before moving abroad to Dubai, where she now occupies the position of Administration Manager for The Music Institute. While there, she concerns herself with settling accounts, business development and logistics.

Technical details aside, Shirley admits that the best part of her career is listening to the beautiful sounds their students string together. She’s also happy with the company’s steady growth, one that she has definitely played a part in, having participated in the opening of five branches in various locations.

Outside the Institute, Shirley busies herself with everyday activities reading, watching TV, surfing the net and eating out. She also enjoys singing and cross-stitching whenever the opportunity arises.

Lilian Maria Soriano Bautista Design and Applications Engineer Daikin Mcquay Middle East FZE, Dubai

A true tech whiz, Lilian graduated from St. Louis University, Baguio City with a degree in B.S. Electronics and Communication Engineering.

In the Philippines, she’s experienced working at established electronics, aeronautical parts and plastic manufacturing industries. Her work has been recognized on several occasions. She’s the recipient of a Sikap Award and even garnered a top position in technical presentations under the Presidential Award category.

Currently, Lilian works as a Design and Applications Engineer in Daikin Mcquay Middle East FZE, an air-conditioning company in Jebel Ali Free Zone, the only female in the Product Engineering Department since the firm’s debut. Her craft requires most of her time and concentration, so much so that it’s not unusual to see so many computer-aided design (CAD) drawings cluttered on her desk every day. Add a dose of sales meetings, training supervision, and simulation-construction for AC units in some 30-floor building - on an average - and you’ll get a taste of Lilian’s daily routine.

Outside work, Lilian enjoys the outdoors, immersing her free time picnicking at the park, walking along the beach and island-hopping whenever she’s back home. She’s also a founder and current president of the Filipino Digerati Association, which aims to uplift the lives of lessprivileged Filipinos in the UAE.

28 PINOY TALENT-ON THE-JOB

It’s What I Do

Pinoy TalenT

on-The- Job It’s all about Filipino progress and diversity at the workfront. Illustrado looks at the changing face of expat Filipino careers and features rising Filipinos who are doing not only different things, but also interesting things that debunk negative stereotypes. In this maiden column, we look at Pinoys connected to the glam industries of fashion and Public Relations.

Norhida Thata Noor Abas

Public Relations Executive - Dar Al Sada Press, Dubai My Job I’m responsible for the press releases for client’s products, monitoring of competitors activities, and covering events like signature products launches, government activities, exhibitions, fashion shows and press conferences. In such a role, I have good contacts to in PR and advertising agencies.

A typical working day for me I start work dealing with correspondence, inquiries, and paperwork. I also put effort in cultivating good relationships and networking with colleagues as well as our clients. During the day, I also monitor the media, including newspapers, magazines, journals, broadcasts, newswires and blogs, for any possible opportunities.

If there is an event that I have to attend, I usually leave the office earlier so I can get myself ready. I pull out one of my gorgeous dresses, match it with shoes, bag and accessories, apply subtle but eye catching make-up and I am ready to rock the world while I work!

Otherwise, I go home and spend some on-line quality time with my angel, Jannah, and do some exercise.

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Career Insight The PR profession is one of the most interesting jobs in the whole world. Here, I get to attend different events, meet diverse nationalities, press people and professionals from all levels. In my job, I learned a lot about fashion, current events and built-up my confidence. It’s a great feeling when somebody knows that I am connected with the media industry here and recognizes me as a Filipino.

Career Advice Never regret. If it’s good, it’s wonderful. If it’s bad, it’s experience. If you can’t fly, run. If you can’t run, walk. If you can’t walk, crawl/ but by all means, keep moving.

To all the young Filipino PR execs out there; your biggest assets are your ideas, knowledge, initiative and passion – and their power can be really amazing. One of your biggest opportunities is to present your assets on the social web through listening to the web, interaction, engagement and networking, etc. It all depends on you to demonstrate your passion to communicate and ambition to learn more about PR. And if you can successfully promote yourself on the social web and build your own professional network of PR pros who know you and what you do, this will be the strongest point in your portfolio.

PINOY TALENT-ON THE-JOB 29

Michael Amazona del Mar

all clothing required for the shoot and tagging the pieces together. I also do a shoot plan, by identifying how many layouts are going to be shot, and schedule the models accordingly.

Fashion Stylist and Producer; Creative Team Member IKON, Dubai My Job I provide turnkey creative solutions to fashion designers, retail brands, magazines, and ad/pr/event agencies in their fashion photography projects. As a Fashion Stylist and Producer, I provide my clients with creative concepts and mood boards for their stills campaign, outsource accessories and clothing, recommend photographers to meet the job scope, and provide all the necessary logistical elements to produce the shoot, that may include models, hiring a studio, set designers, session stylists, set catering, etc.

A typical working day for me Once I have confirmed brief from the client, I usually have a “prep day.” This is basically a day before the shoot where I do all the dirty work. A typical “prep day” for me would be like going to Satwa or Naïf to outsource props and accessories for the shoot; going to retail stores and purchasing items needed for the shoot. My day also includes coordinating with set designers for the set building on the studio, having a pre-production meeting with the photographer and other creatives; discussing the mood boards with clients and having them approved and coordinating the with models for their sizes, steaming

Edilyn Menzies

Freelance Professional Make-Up and Hair Design Artist My Job I studied in New York at the internationally renowned Make-up Designory (MUD) school and graduated in October 2009. I provide a professional make-up and hair service to private clients and companies. I have worked for film and video production companies, some modeling agencies in Dubai and TV Studios. I was also invited to lecture about makeup and do a demonstration for the South African Women’s Association (SAWA) in Dubai.

A typical working day for me A typical day for make-up artists may involve standing for as much as 14 hours. However, there is a lot of down time spent watching and waiting. I work under pressure to finish the job within a set period of time, as actors/model need to be ready for scheduled shoot times.

Depending on the complexity of the make-up, sometimes it will take hours of work to achieve the desired effect. Also, I travel to location shoots for television or film, and work in all kinds of weather and circumstances. I am also required to supply my own make-up and the bags I carry to worksites can weigh up to 25 pounds or more.

Most people think that my job is so glamorous. However, it could also be stressful.

Career Insight Passion Drives Talent.

I am an accountant by profession but I always thought that I had a passion for fashion. It took me some time to realize that accounting was not for me. My accidental encounter with styling happened when I was still working as a model booker. One time on the set, the stylist that I booked did not show up so I had to take matters into my own hands. I loved it! I realized that I love making people look good on the photos. I guess the rest is history in the making…

Career Advice Follow what your heart desires! It’s never too late to do something that you are passionate about. If you know for yourself that you can put something on the table, just don’t sit there and not do anything about it. Go and develop it! Sooner you will realize that you will live the life that you have always wanted.

On-the-Job Experience Recently, a model couldn’t stop complimenting me when she saw how professional I was with regards to being hygienic. In fact, she said she would never allow another make-up artist to work on her again – that was an amazing compliment and probably better than if someone had just remarked on the quality of my work.

Communication is sometimes a challenge as many of the models and staff in the shoots I have attended are of different nationalities and cultural and language backgrounds. But with experience, patience and a pleasant demeanor, you learn how to manage properly with them.

Career Advice Do what makes you happy and you will be receiving all the happiness in the world. When I left to school and decided to do what I love, my life changed! What we need is a sense of fulfillment. Nothing can replace being contented and fulfilled. The minute you decide to do what you love to do, you have made a life plan for yourself, and a career choice. But what you also do is inspire everyone around you.

30 kabuhayan EnTREPREnEuRShIP

Leyende Organic Skincare Business

By Bernadette Reyes

As an awarded poet, Neva Kares Talladen never really thought about becoming an entrepreneur. She probably never thought that she would transform skin rashes into a homegrown Philippine cosmetics and skin care line that is fast becoming a world-class brand.

In her twenties, while Neva was indulging her fascination for makeup as most girls her age, she suddenly developed severe skin allergies known as eczema and contact dermatitis which are characterized by severe rashes. None of the dermatologists she consulted were able to cure her condition until an allergologist diagnosed she is allergic to phenoxyethanol and sulfate which are chemical compounds commonly used in most commercial skin care products.

To remedy her allergies, Neva had to source organic products from the United States which was altogether expensive and difficult to buy.

Her cousins convinced her to concoct her own skin care products.

Desperate as she was, she took up an online course on how to make natural and organic products and even went to product seminars offered by DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) “I attended local workshops about product-making, and one that offered to teach about making organic products. But they were all

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lacking and they wouldn’t teach the basics - making products from scratch. It was from a biochemist from California that I learned how to make these products from scratch.”

Adding her own research through the internet and countless books, from the confines of her kitchen, Neva started to make skin butter, shower gels and shampoos. These products were meant only for personal consumption until her family and friends started to place orders. With a capital of PHP50,000 Neva launched her product line, calling it Leyende, the Spanish word for “legend” in February 2007. “I didn’t have a background in business but I said to myself, ‘I’m passionate about these products and I use them myself from head to toe.’”

Named after famous movies and books, Leyende products are an interesting eye-catcher: Clear and Present shampoo named after the movie Clear and Present Danger, Rapunsilk Shampoo after the

KABUHAYAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP 31

in US$30,000 worth of products for the trade fair and samples for prospective institutional clients. “We look premium, our ingredients are premium and we have a very competitive price range,” Neva stated.

Leyende would not have succeeded if it weren’t for a solid business plan that delineated the budget required for the business to operate. Neva put in additional US$4,000 to grow her business otherwise her success would have been short-lived. “When you have a business no matter how small, you are going to die if you only have capital. You also have to have an operating capital otherwise you cannot grow plus supplemental capital for more manpower and procurement of additional raw materials to meet the growing demand.”

famous cartoons Rapunzel and Smoothie Operator bath and shower gel after the movie Smooth Operator.

Leyende products are not only witty, they are also effective. “After using any Leyende product once, you will feel and see an immediate effect,” said Neva. “The lotion for example will not leave a sticky feel because we don’t use mineral oil that clogs the skin,” she explained.

As a natural and organic brand, Neva strives to maintain the quality of her products and says emphatically that there is only one definition of organic — which has now become a word that is used loosely.

“Organic standards are not up to us. It is based on international standards developed for decades now. So there is just one definition of organic, and no exceptions: If it doesn’t come from a certified organic farm or source, it is not organic. Period.” says Neva.

Priced more expensive than similar products in the market today, Neva had difficulties in gaining consumer acceptance at the outset. A Leyende lip balm for example would fetch at PHP200 versus another brand which sells at PHP60. But Neva refused to scrimp on quality.

Rather than engaging in a price war, she dedicated her marketing efforts to educating consumers about the benefits of using organic products. “We are in a generation that uses chemical-laden products and we are now seeing rising incidence of cancers and tumors as we discover the effects of its long-term use. Now that we know better, the organic shampoo is still not as soft compared to commercial brands, but you know there is no residue in your skin and you know it’s safe for the environment,” Neva stresses.

A proudly-Philippine made brand, Leyende is also gaining acceptance in the international market with current distribution in Singapore, Malaysia and Nigeria. In June, Leyende will also penetrate the cosmetics market in Vietnam. Before yearend, Neva will again participate in the natural and organic fair in the Biofach Japan Natural and Organic Expo held in Japan. Last year, Leyende was the only Filipino company in the trade fair and was an instant hit - all the products Neva brought were sold out. This year she will bring

The Internet was also instrumental in Leyende’s success.

Neva tapped social networking sites to market her products at the outset until the export market saw its potential. She pointed out the need for a “professional looking website” rather than just putting up a plain-looking page.

Neva is focused on making Leyende an international household name especially after the region has started to look at the Philippines as a possible source of imported cosmetics products. “Thailand has very limited variants, Vietnam has problems with sourcing containers and Japanese products are expensive,” she explained.

Leyende is poised to set an example that Philippine-made products can become world-class. “My goal is to be an example of a world class brand so when they say it’s a Philippine brand they know it is synonymous to quality and good design,” she said.

Yet before the international market could embrace any Philippine product such as Leyende, Filipinos must first believe in the quality of “gawang Pinoy.”

“They should buy more Philippine made products – it doesn’t matter if it’s mine or other products. I think we should be more nationalistic in buying clothes, food and household products. We are not inferior anymore, we have become competitive,” Neva ended.

For more information about Leyende, check out: http://www.leyende.com or call +63(2) 484-9197, e-mail: info@leyende.com

Leyende offers training and employment opportunities for disadvantaged women from International Justice Mission Manila and the Visayan Forum. Under a work-study program developed in cooperation with School H.OU.S.E. (Helping Ourselves Through Sustainable Enterprise) Project, members of the Leyende production staff are working toward their earning their high school diplomas while working.

32 ADVERTORIAL

Al Rawabi Offers New Products

Al Rawabi Dairy Company, the pioneer in packaged dairy products and fresh juices in the region, is all set to introduce brand new dairy products for well being - a concept of “Functional Foods” in the region through their one-of-its-kind ‘B-Activ’ product. The new range of functional drinks and stirred yoghurts are helpful as a natural supplement.

Dr. Ahmed El Tigani Abdul Rahim, General Manager, Al Rawabi Dairy Company, said, “We are pleased to introduce ‘B-Activ’ to our current dairy range. The products are rich in vitamins, promising to offer additional health benefits at a time when people are looking for personalized nutritional programs. Due to a hectic and stressful lifestyle, the possibility of our immune system getting weaker is high.

‘B-Activ’ is key in promoting good health as the products address chronic diseases and help reduce the risk of several debilitating diseases like cardiovascular ailments, diabetes and obesity.”

Delectable Brunch at The Original Barrio Fiesta The Original Barrio Fiesta –now offers brunches in its Bur Juman Centre and Lamcy Plaza restaurants.

Customers can now enjoy the special Friday and Saturday brunches for an affordable AED49, served from 11:30 am till 3:30 pm in both locations. Savor Filipino favorites such as Kare Kare, Sugpo sa Aligue, Adobong Manok, Beef Steak Tagalog and many more. The buffet menu changes constantly to offer more variety in each visit.

For special occasions, party packages are also available for group functions and private parties in both restaurants. Customers can

“Our endeavors have always been steered towards the betterment of society through constant efforts and innovation in health care,” Dr. Tigani added. “These products have been developed after vigorous research and thorough clinical testing by medical experts from across the world.”

The B-Activ product line includes - B-Activ Conjugated Linoleic Acid, B-Activ Plant Sterol Esters, B-Activ with Dietary Fibers in Mango and Peach flavor, B-Activ Fruits of Forest with Dietary Fibres, and Stirred Yoghurts with Aloe Vera, Green Tea and Berries.

Over the course of two decades, Al Rawabi has grown immensely, and is today the leading producer of milk products with a market share of 32.8 per cent in the fresh milk and fresh juices segment in the UAE. As a brand, the company currently enjoys market leadership in the UAE and Oman and plans to expand further in Qatar. call Barrio Fiesta at 04-3358318 (Lamcy Plaza) and 04-3594158 (Burjuman Centre).

The Original Barrio Fiesta restaurants, located in Burjuman Centre and Lamcy Plaza in Dubai and Abu Dhabi Mall, offer traditional and authentic Filipino cuisine - a fusion of native flavors with dashes of Spanish, Chinese, and Malay influences. Established in 1952, The Original Barrio Fiesta currently has 50 restaurants in the Philippines and the U.S.A. as well as three restaurants in the UAE.

Catch the Manila Bay Sunset at White Moon Bar At White Moon, one can have the best unobstructed vantage view of Manila Bay’s famous sunset. Cool breeze and the sound of the cascading water relax all senses while sitting comfortably in our wide soft crisp white sofas. You can enjoy the bay’s magnificence while sipping your favorite champagne or our top selling cucumber mojito while munching on our selection of cheese and charcuterie. Celebrate life and nature nightly with our featured guest DJs dishing out hip chill vibe music. For inquiries and reservations call +639178154181 or email info.whitemoonbar@gmail.com. White Moon is located at the second deck of the Manila Ocean Park at the back of the historical Quirino Grandstand, Luneta.

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34 FEATURE

Overseas Filipinos Towards Financial Independence

Filipinos leave home sweet home to work abroad – in search of greener pastures, to elevate the family’s standard of living, to secure the children’s future. Whatever we may call it, it can all be stated in simpler terms: to earn more money.

Now while working abroad grows the financial means of Overseas Filipinos’ (OFs) families, the OF reality of having better earnings and being away from loved ones may lead to materialism and money problems. In this article, Rache Hernandez examines the financial woes plaguing Filipino expats, and how a growing number of OFs are taking the next step towards financial independence.

Love in a Box For OFs, sending gifts to loved ones in the Philippines has become an annual giving birth to the concept of “Balikbayan Box” – literally the “return to one’s homeland box,” in the 80s.

Memilyn Rodriguez, 31, who works as an Underwriter in Deira, fills her annual Balikbayan Box with clothing items, electronics, and groceries. “These things are cheaper here,” she said. “That’s why I buy for my family and send them through a Balikbayan Box.” She also

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states that sending a Balikbayan Box is how she lets her family back home enjoy things that they didn’t have before.

To many OFs, Balikbayan Boxes are not merely treasure troves of chocolates, soaps, shoes and DVD players. Through these boxes, OFs show their families back home that they are thinking of them and so they send their love. Somehow, a Balikbayan Box manages to bridge the distance between the OF and the family that was left behind, and sustains relationships with loved ones in the process.

FEATURE 35

Remittance is King When OFs are not sending Balikbayan Boxes, they are remitting their earnings to their families back home. In fact, remittances from OFs in different parts of the world have become crucial to keeping the Philippine economy afloat. Remittances remain an important source of income for the Philippines, accounting for 9.98% of GDP in 2010, reaching $21.3 billion. Also last year, the Philippines ranked fourth among the top remittance -receiving countries in the world, according to the Remittance and Migration Factbook of 2011.

Filipinos in the UAE were one of the main sources of remittances in 2010, sending a total of $775 million.

However, more money doesn’t always mean a better life.

Remember when somebody said “Money is the root of all evil”?

This may well be true when having more money leads to materialism and indebtedness.

Worldly Woes Melanie M. Reyes, in a study entitled “Migration and Filipino Children Left-Behind: A Literature Review” conducted for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), states that one of the social costs of migration is the breeding of a consumerist attitude, especially among children of migrants. She asserts that “most children accept the migration of their parents as an opportunity to have a better life; they only see the ‘money equivalent’ of migration.”

Ildefonso Bagasao, President and Chief Executive Officer of Economic Resource Center for Overseas Filipinos (ERCOF), also gives the following psychological motivations for this characteristic: “OFs seek to compensate for their absence from their loved ones, literally [because of ] a sense of guilt for not being able to personally attend to their needs, especially their children.”

For Bagasao, “expensive gifts may also show that one “has arrived” or one has improved his financial status.” Most of those left behind in the Philippines have the impression that OFs live a life of luxury abroad, and OFs consequently seek to reinforce this belief through the gifts they send back home.

A study called “Addressing the Social Cost of Migration in the Philippines,” by Atikha Overseas Workers and Communities Initiative, Inc., a non-government organization that provides OFs and their families with economic and social services, reveals that

migrants, especially those who are mothers, assuage their feelings of guilt and loneliness for leaving their children behind by buying expensive material things for them.

This inadvertently starts a vicious cycle wherein those left behind begin to expect expensive gifts, and OFs, in turn, make it a point to send only expensive and branded items. Sometimes, OFs may find themselves spending hard-earned money shopping for their families, usually to their own detriment, with indiscriminate spending leading to indebtedness. The Atikha study states that some OFs go as far as borrowing money so that they can fulfil their children’s and other relative’s “unreasonable requests.”

Money Savvy Fortunately, in recent years, OFs have started to become more financially aware and literate. The recent global economic crisis that saw massive job loss and visa cancellations made a lot of Filipinos realize that they needed a new source of income to fall back on.

In 2009, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported that savings of OFs and their families increased by 40% from 2008 figures. There was also an increase in the use of remittances for investment (5.9%) and to purchase properties (11.2%).

Some Filipino individuals and organizations have also become actively involved in teaching Filipinos financial literacy. The BSP has the flagship program called Financial Learning Campaign (FLC) for OFs which underscores the significance of financial planning for OFs and their families. The program teaches OFs how to implement the three steps to financial freedom – planning, saving, and investing.

The Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE), a non-stock, non-profit organization that believes that Filipinos can address poverty by engaging in entrepreneurship, advocates Go Negosyo (www.gonegosyo.net). Through Caravans, Negosems, multi-media (TV and web) campaigns, and books, Go Negosyo seeks to teach Filipinos that entrepreneurship is an alternative to employment and migration.

ERCOF (www.ercof.com), on the other hand, offers personal financial planning services that promote an attitude change in the way OFs and their families manage and spend their income.

ERCOF links to institutions that help Filipinos with capital buildup, health coverage, legal counselling on property acquisition, and property reacquisition.

36 FEATURE

In the UAE, Atikha offers training on financial literacy for OFs and their families.

The program, which started in January 2011 in the UAE, discusses financial concepts such as saving, budgeting, investing, loans, and planning, ultimately aimed at equipping OFs with the skills to effectively manage the money they earn. More training sessions will be conducted in the coming months.

Business Bug One of the Filipinos’ responses to the economic crisis a few years ago was to take up selfemployment. The International Labor Organization (ILO) stated that the share of self-employed workers of total employed increased to 31.1% in 2009.

Some OFs have already taken a forward step and embraced the entrepreneurial spirit by establishing their own businesses in the UAE. As early as 2006, the Dubai Municipality had registered 70 Filipino businesses in Dubai alone, and Filipino-owned businesses can be seen sprouting around the emirates. This may be the beginning of a new trend wherein the OF who left the Philippines to become an employee abroad, has now grown to become an employer himself. In this context, working abroad ceases being a mere means of sending money back home and starts to become a stepping stone towards entrepreneurship.

Then, there are those like EA Asi, 30, who works as an Executive Assistant in Dubai, and also manages an online shop called Petite Shop, which sells clothes and fashion accessories through a Facebook account, on the side.

“Being an OF is only temporary,” EA related. “We need to prepare for our future while we are still here and while we are still young.” EA also proudly said that the extra income she gets from Petite Shop pays for some of her daily expenses as well as helps out with her family’s needs in the Philippines. On future plans, EA stated that she intends “to save some of (her) earnings and then invest the money in a new project or business.”

Property Option The OF market has increased considerably over the years that real estate companies in the Philippines attribute a boost in their sales to the market. Property holdings group Vista Land and Lifescapes, Inc., the Philippines’ largest homebuilder, says 60% of their reservation sales come from OFs. Century Properties, one of the largest privately-

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owned full-service real estate firms in the Philippines, on the other hand, credits the overseas market for more than 50% of their sales.

Mary Michelle Pan, 26, an IT Support Staff in Karama, has invested in a property along the beach in San Juan, Batangas. “I decided that I cannot save without a purpose,” she explained. “And so, instead of saving now and then spending the money later on something that was unplanned, why not invest in something concrete?” she added.

Hers turned out to be a good investment because, in less than two years, the property’s price per square meter has increased by more than 25%. “Investing in real estate,” Mary stated, “is setting aside something for the future, an amount that is likely to increase or appreciate.”

Rainy Days The driving force behind every OF’s work attitude has always been to send as much money or gifts back home as possible. However, when done indiscriminately, this has been seen to have ill-effects that may be harder to correct than it is to explain to a relative why you can’t send that Blackberry or iPhone just yet. The key here is to strike a balance. It is only understandable to enjoy a part of your earnings now. But it is also equally important to set aside something for the future; after all, you never know what the future will bring. As they say, save for a rainy day; when you can no longer work, your savings will work for you.

For those interested in attending the Atikha training on financial training, email atikha@atikha.org or berneta@emirates.net.ae, or log on to www.atikha.org.

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38 kabuhayan money

Time

and Compounding Interest FINANCIAL LITERACY IS NOT ABOUT NUMBERS.

By Francisco J Colayco

“Saving for a rainy day” starts with a mindset of abundance. Some believe in the saying “Make merry today because tomorrow you die.” or “I can’t even make ends meet with the increased cost of living.” or “I can’t wait for 40 years. I might as well play the Lotto and hope to hit it big.”

A word of reminder, though. In a market-driven economy like ours, it is an obligation to save, invest and sustain financial well-being over your lifetime. The simple reason is that you will not be able to work and earn actively for your entire life. You need to plan for the day you can no longer earn actively. You need to provide for your future.

Thus, you must learn to keep a portion of what you earn and do more with what you keep. Life is about growing your earnings, protecting it, learning how to spend it wisely and sharing it.

For those who question how PHP10 per day can grow to PHP28million in 40 years if you invest at 20% per annum, I’d like to introduce you to the concept of - Time and Compounding.

Let’s put that concept to good use.

When I was a struggling youth, I would look at the rich and believe they had everything. True, they had the money to start with and I had practically nothing.

Unfortunately being young, nobody emphasized to me in money terms that rich or poor, we all have 24 hours a day. No amount of money can buy even an extra minute to extend our day. An hour that has passed is forever lost.

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IT IS ABOUT MINDSET. So now, I want to pass on to you that whatever it is you want to do, you must do it now.

Time is your greatest asset and in fact, is part of the capital you need to grow your wealth. Combined with savings and the knowledge on how to use compounding, you will be well on your way to financial independence.

“Compounding” is a phenomenal tool to grow wealth. Albert Einstein defines it as man’s greatest invention. Compounding can grow even a little amount into a huge amount if you allow it to stay invested for a long period of time.

You just need to “roll” your money. You allow the earnings on your investments to be added to your principal or original investment amount.

The result is that your principal and its earnings will earn even more earnings each year. For example, in one year, PHP1,000 that earns 20% per year will grow to PHP1,200 in that one year. In the second year, if you “roll” the entire amount of 1,200 pesos to compound, it will earn 240 pesos for a total of PHP1,440 pesos (P1,200 + P240).

As time passes and as you continue to roll your investment and earnings, allowing it to compound, the growth in earnings becomes even faster. For example, PHP300 saved each month and invested to earn 20% compounded per annum will grow to PHP28.8 million in 40 years. This is 200 times PHP144,000 (300 x12 x 40), which is the actual amount of cash you invested over the 40 year period.

kabuhahan money 39

can then invest this amount in equity mutual funds which can average a yield of 20% per year over a period of at least five years.

2) In most mutual funds, It is possible to add as low as PHP1,000 or more to your PHP5,000 investment as often as you want.

I believe that the average 20% per year over a period of 40 years is possible. There are no guarantees, of course. However, the chances of achieving these returns improve over a longer period of time.

In today’s market, when all the values are very low for mutual funds, there are even bigger chances of very high increases in the future. As I always advise, buy regularly whether the market is up or down and the law of averages will keep your investment on the right track.

But let us just say, for the sake of argument, that you are not able to get 20% per annum and that you are not disciplined enough to save monthly for 40 years. If you still saved your PHP10 per day (something you normally throw away for unnecessary expenses) for 17 months until it your savings reaches PHP5,000, invested at say 15% per annum and added PHP3,600 every year (the amount it takes you to save PHP10 per day per year) you will still end up with around PHP7.7 million at the end of 40 years. You might not find this amount exciting, but it certainly beats nothing. Note too that the amount you actually put aside in 40 years is only PHP149,000.

Note though that if you SPEND the yearly earnings or gains of your investment, after 40 years, you will be left with only PHP144,000.

This is the same amount of money you set aside. This is because you did not avail of the power of compounding.

I personally did not take advantage of this principle in my early working years. Like most young professionals, I was impatient and wanted to live a certain lifestyle right away. Looking back, I would probably have ten times more of what I have now and be much better off, had I religiously invested - even small amounts - and practiced these principles much earlier.

For those who doubt the very assumption of 20% and 40 years, let me set the parameters for the sake of argument.

If you are going to absolutely technical about it, we all know that: It is not possible to invest PHP10 to earn any amount of interest.

Even a savings account will require a minimum deposit of PHP500 in some banks and PHP1,000 in most banks.

Earnings of 20% per year are difficult to attain for a short-term investment.

However, it is possible to:

1) Pool your small money with an investment “club” made up of friends or save your money until it accumulates to PHP5,000. You

At an average inflation rate of 5%, your P7.7 million at the end of 40 years is the equivalent of around P1.1 million in today’s peso. You could buy a respectable studio unit in a medium level condo today with this money. Presumably, that’s what you could also acquire at the end of 40 years, assuming that prices increase based on the average inflation rate. That would also be a reasonable amount to get started on a small to medium business venture, something you could leave for your children or even your grandchildren.

Why do I set higher targets than perhaps you would believe possible?

Because, whenever it will not harm anyone, that is the way to set your targets.

Believe in the impossible and it will happen.

Is betting on the Lotto then believing in the impossible? It is not believing in the impossible. It is simply betting on the improbable.

Betting on the Lotto is a sure loss if you will only think of it in money terms. Your chances of winning are perhaps one out of 10 million.

I believe that in accumulating wealth, “slow is fast.” Just save the little that you will not worry about and put it in instruments that will grow and leave it alone. You will be surprised one day that it has grown much more than you thought possible.

Please write to info@colaycofoundation.com if you have specific questions that we can address or are interested in the performance details of reputable mutual funds.

40 SUCCESSFUL PINOY SPIRITUALITY

Money Doesn’t Buy Happiness; Money Buys Freedom

By Bo Sanchez

ONCE upon a time, I was poor.

And proud of it.

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SPIRITUALITY SUCCESSFUL PINOY 41 Many people will be retiring without any savings or investments — and will grow older and poorer as the years go by.

Many people are living in poverty, and their children are suffering from poor health and poor education.

And that’s the reason why I changed: I want to help people get out of debt, solve their financial problems, and gain more financial blessings to help more people.

This is my commitment. This is my mission. This is my passion and I don’t care how many persons criticize me for it. I’ve devoted my entire life to help anyone who’s suffering by giving practical wisdom through my preaching and writing - whether spiritually, emotionally, or financially.

I was a happy single missionary who didn’t think about money, didn’t touch money, didn’t save money, and didn’t want to have anything to do with money. At the time, I believed that saving money was a lack of trust in God. And businessmen? Man, I pitied them. I figured their souls were loitering on the brink of Hell. Imagine, all they thought about the whole day was money —the very instrument of the devil.

I was so poor that before entering Jollibee, I had to first pull out my wallet and count how much money I had. There were days when I had to turn around because my cash (or coins!) wasn’t enough.

I was proud that I was poor, deprived, and suffering. It somehow made me feel holy.

For Many, Unless There’s Financial Freedom, There Can Be No Real Freedom in Their Life Because my beliefs have changed, my financial life has changed as well. Not to brag, but to emphasize a point - I’m no longer poor.

I now run small businesses, earn through real estate, mutual funds, and the stock market. I’m now able to help the poor in a way I couldn’t before. And I’m able to give more to the ministry of the Lord because of the financial blessings He has given me. I’ve learned that when I give, I receive so much more.

I also believe that holiness doesn’t have anything to do with being poor or being rich. Holiness has everything to do with love — and one can do that whether one is poor or rich.

Love the Lord with All Your Heart, Mind, Strength and Money Too!

Money doesn’t buy happiness; Money buys freedom.

Today, my beliefs have totally changed; and that’s why I’m being criticized. By religious people no less. They say I teach too much about money. “Bo, why have you changed?” they ask me. “You now keep talking about savings and investments and business. Where’s the sweet and simple guy who used to talk only about God and prayer and holiness and heaven? We want that guy back…”

Bad people will use that freedom in a bad way — and be as miserable as hell.

Good people will use that freedom in a good way — and be as happy as heaven. To be more precise, good people will use that freedom to do good. I’s that simple.

Sorry, but you won’t get that guy back. Because God has changed me.

Let me give you a small example of what I mean. Today, I no longer stop in front of Jollibee to count my money. Before, my prayer was, “Lord, I need something to eat. Please give me money.” Today, my prayer is, “Lord, send me people who have nothing to eat today and let me be a blessing to them.”

Let me tell you why I changed: I decided to love more.

Don’t get me wrong. I still preach about God and prayer and holiness and heaven. (After all, money is only one of my many topics.) But these past few years, I’ve been very burdened by the practical, down-to-earth, very REAL needs of God’s people.

Here are the facts: Many good families are buried in debt. They can’t sleep at night.

Many good husbands and wives fight a lot because of money problems. (According to surveys, 50% of marital conflicts are money problems. One survey even says it’s 80%!)

I’m using my freedom to love.

And after all these years of helping so many people in their spiritual life, I’ve come to a striking realization: especially for those children or parents depending on them, there can be no real freedom in life without financial freedom.

Wealth Is a Feeling Wealth is measured by how grateful you are. Wealth is not primarily your cash or your houses or your cars. I believe wealth is first of all an emotion. Wealth is a feeling.

42 SUCCESSFUL PINOY SPIRITUALITY

The true measure of wealth is not your money, your real estate, or your jewels. The true measure of wealth is how grateful you are. The more grateful you are, the wealthier you are. The less grateful you are, the less wealthy you are. It’s that simple.

Some 20 years ago, I was earning PHP30 a day; yet I felt so rich. Because I was so grateful for God’s blessings. Today, I feel even richer. Not just because I earn more, but because I’ve become even more grateful.

There are three levels of gratitude: Superficial, Simple, and Sacred.

Superficial Gratitude is being thankful for big-ticket items like a house, a marriage, a baby, a big business deal. Superficial gratitude is very good, but it doesn’t last very long. Recently, I read a story of a man who finally passed the bar exam after nine attempts. For those nine years, passing the bar exam was like a full time job for him. Finally, he passed it! Imagine if you were that guy, you would be very grateful, too. But soon, you’d have new problems as a lawyer. I remember my friend who finally got married at the age of 51. Imagine her joy. But eventually, new problems will come up; like marital problems.

Superficial gratitude is good, but it doesn’t last because big problems come with big blessings. You need to move to the second level of gratitude.

Simple Gratitude I believe there’s no difference between big and small gifts from God. I once gave my mother, Pilar, a trip to the United States. Obviously, at 84 years old, she couldn’t go alone. So I had to pay for my sister to go with her, too. So it was a big, expensive gift. But I give Mom small gifts, too. Like every two weeks, I take her out on a date. I don’t really spend much on those dates — just a simple restaurant meal and that’s it. But if you ask my mother, “Tita Pilar, what gift do you most appreciate from Bo — your US trip or your dates with him?” — I’m sure she’ll say, “Both. I love them both. They’re equal in my eyes.”

Here’s what I learned: When it comes to love, there’s no such thing as a small gift.

How about daily food? Is that a small gift or a big gift? I was very touched when my friend Dave Quintana shared this with me. He’s an American missionary who worked among the poorest of the poor

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in Payatas, Quezon City. One day, he met a little boy there, working in the garbage dump. He befriended him and asked him, “What’s your favorite food?” For a few seconds, the boy didn’t answer. The question was totally foreign to him. He finally said, “Yung pagkain na hindi bulok.” Food that isn’t spoiled. That was his favorite food.

Now tell me: Is your daily food a small gift or big gift? But even Simple Gratitude is not the deepest form of gratitude.

Sacred Gratitude - The deepest gratitude is Sacred Gratitude. The Bible says: be thankful in all circumstances. This gratitude is no longer tied to circumstances. You’re no longer attached to circumstances or outcomes or results. Because no matter what happens, you believe that God will work for your good. If you have Sacred Gratitude, you’re always thankful. You’re thankful for life, for love, for God, for happiness.You’re thankful because you exist. At this point, gratitude is no longer something that you do. Gratitude is who you are. If you have Sacred Gratitude, you become one of the wealthiest persons in the world.

So, is Money Not Wealth?

Money without gratitude isn’t wealth. It’s poverty. But gratitude with money is true wealth.

Here’s why gratitude is the true measure of wealth: Gratitude is a special magnet. It attracts whatever you’re grateful for.

When I’m grateful for the love in my life, I attract more of it. My relationships get deeper. My friendships become stronger.

When I’m grateful for money, I attract more money. The right people come into my life. Doors open before me. Opportunities fall at my feet.

44 SUCCESSFUL PINOY RELATIONSHIPS

“Kasal lang

Ako”

Dear Doc Holmes and Mr Baer:

I am a manager at one of the restaurant chains here in the Middle East. Many of the waitresses working here are also from the Philippines, like me. The minute I met Diana, I knew she was different from the other Filipinas who worked at my restaurant.

Now I know why. She used to be a Psychology teacher when she was in the Philippines and I was formerly a -seminarian. We both love to discuss philosophy. I am in love with her, and she feels the same.

The problem is, we keep on arguing about the difference between “may asawa ka,” (you have a wife) as she always claims and “kasal lang ako” (I am merely married) as I defend myself.

She is convinced that loving me is WRONG but for me, six years separated is quite a long time already. I can’t blame her, Doc. She was raised by a very conservative family and as a psychologist and a teacher, people around her, especially her family, expect her to act MORALLY and RATIONALLY which contradicts our situation as I’m “still married” and she’s single.

Doc and Sir, it’s not as if I’ve become completely immoral. How can I convince myself that she is indeed right and we should stop this - or how can I convince her that I’m right and there’s nothing wrong with our relationship?

Thank you po.

I’ve been separated from my ex-wife for six years now, though not legally (annulled). We have three kids.

Eric, You raise a number of significant issues but more interesting are those that you do not raise, namely: 1) Why after six years of separation have you still not annulled your marriage?

2) How can an ex-seminarian have your sort of doubts?

3) Why did Diana allow this relationship to develop this far?

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Eric

I can think of various reasons for not getting an annulment, such as opposition from your wife, concern for the children, recognition that your conscience cannot accept the sophistry of the current canon law approach to annulment. I can also suggest that you have progressed from seminarian via ex-seminarian to agnostic or atheist. However, the fact is that you have not told us your reasons, and whatever they are, they are extremely unlikely to convince a conservative family that you are - or ever will be - a stellar choice for Diana.

SUCCESSFUL PINOY RELATIONSHIPS 45 More interesting, however, is Diana’s attitude to your relationship.

According to you, she is convinced that loving you is morally wrong.

Yet this psychologist professor, raised in a conservative environment and trained to be rational and moral, has permitted the relationship between the two of you to develop to the stage where she is in love with a man whose status she herself describes as “may asawa ka.”

Surely, a woman who truly believes that it is immoral to go out with a married man would not start a relationship with one, much less allow it to reach the point of “falling in love”?

The only explanations I can come up with to justify her seemingly hypocritical behavior are either that she has simply been mouthing the beliefs of those around her without truly subscribing to them (good news for you!) and has now found the pressure to conform to be overwhelming (bad news!); or that you conveniently “forgot” to tell her you were still married until she was already in love with you.

Of course, all this is in the past and you are concerned with the future.

You yourself admit that to date you have been unable to convince her of the ‘morality’ of your relationship.

As you cannot change her, but you can change yourself, you have to decide firstly whether her beliefs are genuine. If they are, then, respect her decision and terminate the relationship. If they are not genuine however, the saying that applies is ‘all is fair in love and war.’

This is war and you must battle so that her love for you comes out the winner.

Best of luck JAF Baer Dear Eric: What can I say except bilib talaga ako sa asawa ko. Everything he’s told you I agree with completely, especially the part where he says she may have fallen for you because you “forgot” to tell her you were married until she fell in love with you. Many Filipino men don’t even bother to tell their girlfriends, and their awakening is so much worse because it comes from someone else.

It is always a wonderful experience to find one’s “soul mate,” but it must be even more so when least expected: in the middle of an arid desert, you provide each other an oasis of love.

You are a former seminarian and she is a former Psych major. You’ve both been trained to look at man as more than the sum of his parts, as more than someone who merely works to feed himself and his family and to enjoy life’s pleasures. It must be lonely to be in an environment where you cannot share all these views with people.

And then, when you least expect it, you meet a kindred spirit.

Boom, crackle, pop!!

You fall in love. Of course, you do. We love people who make us feel our very best selves.

Your very best selves are academics and philosophers, discussing the nuances of what it means to be human, and admitting that the fulfillment of your dreams includes the other’s being in it.

This is what love is all about. After all the hardships that push one to be an OF, you both must’ve felt you were in Paradise at last.

Alas, as in all gardens of Eden, a serpent or two slithers.

I imagine hers was the realization that your having a wife is in the active voice. This is not something that merely happened without your cooperation. You made it happen.

Your having a wife is worlds apart from “kasal lang ako,” which can only be uttered by a man who refuses to take responsibility for having a wife and kids.

She’s finally realized that your relationship is pure folly. You will end up breaking her heart, if you haven’t already. Worse, you will make her feel a fool to have ever loved you in the first place. UNLESS… unless you stop discussing, get off your tuches and actually do something about your previous relationship.

I doubt Diana insists on an actual annulment. That would depend not only on you, but also on your wife. And Diana is a reasonable person. She would only ask what is in your remit to give: Proof you’ve taken responsibility for what you did in the past and for what — and who - you want in the future.

Because she’s right. May asawa ka na. You started being a husband when you promised, before God and man, to forsake all others from this day forward… including the days and the times you’ve spent with Diana.

You are definitely not “merely married” (kasal lang). I don’t even know what that means: That you paid for the marriage license and then you were both free to go your merry ways? But if you have three kids together, you must’ve gone your merry way only after some time with your wife. And who takes care of these kids now? Their everyday needs? Whose salary, stock dividends puts food on the table and clothes on their backs?

If you (entirely or partly) do so, then you aren’t “merely married” in the sense that it makes no difference to your current life and what you can offer a current partner. If you don’t help, well, this only confirms your irresponsible ways, doesn’t it?

You mentioned in your letter that: “The problem is, we keep on discussing the difference between ‘may asawa ka,’ as she always claims, and ‘kasal lang ako’, as I defend myself.”

Actually dearest Eric, the problem is much bigger than that. The problem is that discussing is all you do, period. But the time for mere discussing is over. It’s time to decide: Do you continue philosophizing or do you finally put your money where your mouth is?

Having a wife is not a mere theoretical construct, no matter how much you pretend it is. Hopefully, you will decide what the best thing to do is and then actually do it!

Good luck MG Holmes

46 FEATURE

Wedded Bliss Gone Amiss

By Ana Santos

There are only two countries in the world that do not have a clear law on divorce — Malta and the Philippines. Recently, Malta has been making the news for conducting a referendum that may signal a reform of their current marital laws and finally pave the way for divorce. Will the Philippines become the last country standing?

In the 1600s, Henry VIII, the King of England, decided that he no longer wanted to be married to his wife, Catherine of Aragon.

But Henry, who was Roman Catholic, faced excommunication if he divorced Catherine. Henry VIII had no choice but to separate from the Roman Catholic Church, start his own Reformation Movement which allowed him to divorce Catherine of Aragon and marry his second wife, Anne Boleyn.

During his lifetime, Henry VIII divorced five times and had a total of six wives.

Fast forward to the 20th century, Filipina actress Amy Perez was not as lucky. Perez tried filing for annulment from her husband, Brix Ferraris, citing psychological incapacity, but her petition was denied.

Perez appealed to the Supreme Court but they also decided against her, citing in their 2006 decision:

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“Also, we held in Hernandez v. Court of Appeals18 that habitual alcoholism, sexual infidelity or perversion, and abandonment do not by themselves constitute grounds for declaring a marriage void based on psychological incapacity. Sexual infidelity, alcoholism and abandonment are not grounds for annulment.” (It makes you wonder: if those aren’t grounds for annulment, then what are?)

Perez remains married — albeit merely on paper — to Ferraris even though neither she nor their son has spoken to him in years; even though she is now living with her boyfriend, with whom she has a child, Sean Kyle.

Under Philippine law, which does not allow divorce, an annulment means declaring a marriage null and void on the grounds that there was a condition — such as psychological incapacity — existed even before the marriage. This requires the petitioner to present evidence to the Court to support psychological incapacity. The Court then decides whether or not there is sufficient ground to grant the annulment.

FEATURE 47

Only in the Philippines

In her book, “How Do You Know Your Pearls are Real: On Single Parenthood and Other Ms. Adventures”, Barbara Gonzalez mused that the Philippines was afraid that if divorce were legalized, it would be treated as vitamins - even healthy marriages would be seen needing a dose.

Karen concludes that she would only be amenable to divorce “if it were to be a tedious or laborious process so it will only be the last resort for people.”

Happily married for 11 years, but having seen many marriages around her crumble, Eds Roberto took on a pragmatic stance, “People separate anyway, if a marriage doesn’t work out. Divorce would just be a formalization of that; a chance to do things and make things right; a second chance for people to move on.”

In a recent interview, President NoyNoy, our first bachelor president was quoted as saying that he cannot bring himself up to issue a law Married today, annulled tomorrow on divorce, fearing that the Philippines would “Quick and easy” is certainly not something that can describe the become like Las Vegas where marriages and process of getting an annulment. It took Theresa (not her real name) four years to get her annulment. “People told me I could get it in six divorces are quick and easy.

Many Filipinos are also divided on the issue. Anna Hermosura, a French teacher, who describes herself as a traditional Catholic (“As in, I attend Latin mass”), is staunchly opposed to the idea of legalizing divorce in the country.

“Marriage is a commitment, an act of will, a rational decision. People taking that option should first be fully aware of what it entails before going into it, otherwise, they should defer. If they still pursue it, they should understand that there is no other option but to go forward,” said Hermosura.

Hermosura, who is married with one child, expounds, “Feelings may die, but commitment and therefore, responsibility involves one’s honor. Only the weak and the shameless take back their word. People with strength of character can stay married and faithful until death.”

“Modern man has made himself weak. Instead of looking for a way out or giving up, why not try to rebuild or fortify one’s character for a change?” added Hermosura.

Others are wishy-washy about the idea of divorce. Karen, 40, a married mother of two says, “I’m a spineless flip-flopper. Today, I’m thinking it [divorce] shouldn’t simply be because some people won’t try and make marriage work anymore, with divorce readily available.”

Admitting her apprehensions may be baseless, Karen nonetheless shared, “May mga mahilig sa easy way out. Wag lang sana mauso ang divorce-while-you-wait which is something the entrepreneurial Pinoy can also come up with.”

months, but it would cost me PHP200,000. I don’t have that kind of money so I had to wait. It wasn’t like I was in a hurry to get married all over again, if you know what I mean.”

Cherie (not her real name) said that her annulment case has been pending for two years, but costs have already run into the millions.

“There are so many other counter suits that were filed by both of us — I really don’t know anymore,” she let out, fatigue and a hint of defeat in her voice.

It’s not just a matter of money. As seen in the case of Amy Perez, even if you could freely get married (marriage vows are structured to make sure that neither party is coerced into walking down the aisle), in the case of annulment, it ain’t over until the judge says so.

Clare Padilla, Executive Director of EnGenderights, an NGO that provides legal services, pointed out that under the current situation, “Women whose husbands are abusing them can only obtain nullity of marriage under article 36 of the Family Code where it must be shown that either or both of the parties are psychologically incapacitated.

Court decisions nullifying marriages are difficult to obtain because of varying judicial interpretations as to what constitutes psychological illness. Without specific divorce legislation, it is hard for women leave abusive relationships; they are subjected to the continuance of domestic violence.”

Padilla said that many women end up cohabiting with their current partners without having their marriage nullified. And because of this, some women are dismissed from government service precisely because of these “immorality issues.”

48 FEATURE

If you think marriage is expensive, you should try annulment

Recently, there have been moves to try and ease the annulment process —perhaps, society’s own way of balancing - a compromise, if you will - on this issue that seeks to rule on the very things that lie at the core of the Filipino value system: family and matrimonial union.

Jaromay Laurente Pamaos Law Offices in their website reported that the Supreme Court is “considering an accreditation system for psychiatrists and psychologists who examine couples seeking to annul their marriages.” This move is seen to standardize the cost of the report and testimony of psychiatrists and psychologists needed as evidence to support psychological incapacity.

Fees for such services started out at around PHP10,000 to PHP15,000 per case, but later ballooned to PHP20,000 to more than PHP30,000 per case.

Women’s party-list group Isa-Ako Babaeng Astig Aasenso or 1-ABAA proposed a more radical approach with their Renewable Marriage Act. Essentially, the provisions entail that the marriage contract would be reviewed after 10 years so both parties could decide whether or not the contract should be renewed.

But what about Maria Shriver?

While more than 50% of all marriages in U.S end in divorce (source: DivorceRate. org), Asia has long been regarded as having lower divorce rates compared to our Western counterparts because cultural factors like arranged marriages, the importance of saving face and the role family plays are all natural deterrents to getting a divorce. Divorce was once unthinkable in Asia, but now in a special report done by Time magazine showed divorce on the rise.

The story entitled “Asia’s Divorce Boom,” showed that the divorce rate in Asia soared over the last decade with countries like South Korea and Hong Kong amongst those with the highest percentages of marriages ending in divorce. Divorce in South Korea went up to 47% in 2002 from 11% in 1999 and from 13% to 41% in Hong Kong during the same time frame.

The study also showed that more women are initiating divorce proceedings - are they no longer willing to put up with things that were deemed to be part and parcel of the ills of marriages gone awry such as philandering husbands?

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“Yes, you want to work at a marriage and you want that happy ending. But it takes two to do that. What are you supposed to do when the other party just doesn’t keep up his end of the deal? Are you supposed to live the life in misery?” asked Cherie, in reference to her marriage, which she filed a petition for annulled for after a couple of years of marriage.

“I was becoming cynical about it [marriage]. At a wedding, I thought why do they even bother? Half of these people who marry end up divorced or annulled anyway,” Cherie rationalized.

Yes, 50% - half of those who get married stay married and the other half part ways. Some marriages have a happy ending, but what about those whose fairytale took a detour? Should there be a modern day solution to fairytales that don’t take on a traditional ending?

50 ADVERTORIAL

Liali Jewellery Marks 12 Glittering Years

Leading retailer marks memorable milestone with the launch of its glamorous DZ collection and attractive year round promotions Liali Jewellery, leading retailer of luxury jewelry in Dubai completes 12 successful years in its glittering journey by marking the occasion with the launch of a glamorous new collection – DZ. The brand DZ is used to symbolize a dozen years of Liali, and each sparkling piece in this exclusive collection is a one-off, priced at just AED 12,000. It epitomizes the well known retailer’s visionary depth and exquisite craftsmanship. Starting from the 1st June 2011, Liali has several attractive promotions which will run year-round to add to the celebratory mood.

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Established in 1999 in Dubai, Liali has grown to be one of the most trusted names in its field. The Dubai based jeweler boasts 18 sparkling boutiques located at the UAE’s most prestigious malls and shopping centers. Apart from the UAE, Liali outlets can also be found in Bahrain and Barcelona. Liali attributes its success hugely to its growing list of customers who have repeatedly come back for more of its timeless and beautiful collections. Especially renowned are its diamond jewelry collections which are much sought after. Indeed, there is something for every age group and taste at Liali outlets as it has always delighted in making customers look and feel their best.

Celebrate with Liali Jewellery as you discover the magic of this collections now available at all Liali stores.

Let your child experience the joy of learning Your child would rather learn than do anything else in the world. He learns by doing and the younger he is the easier it is.

We at De La Salle Montessori help children become all that they can become. With our “whole child” approach, we help children reach their full potential in all areas of life. Children at De La Salle Montessori are given the opportunity to develop and master basic skills and learn desired values and attitudes. Equal importance is given to arts, culture and social activities recognizing children’s potential for knowledge and creativity and giving importance to their individuality.

Help foster the maximum development of your child’s abilities...give your child the De La Salle Montessori advantage.

Visit us at Villa #48 opposite Centerpoint Apartments, Mankhool or Call 04-3986218 for inquiries.

52 ILLUSTRADO SCRAPBOOK A platform for budding Filipino creative talent

Marco Paulo Sugpatan Epino Marco Paulo’s first forays in the realm of photography were simply dismissed as something on the side. Since then, he’s found himself scouring every single field - right down to the basics completely enthralled by how photographic images can express form and texture with the simple press of a button. He’s also fostered a great love for photojournalism as well as landscape and street photography.

He’s listed technology and conceptualism as the main movers of his career direction, the greatest influence being his mentor, Richard Martinez whom he later assisted in photoshoots as an assistant Photographer and Light Man. Long past his shutterbug days, Marco lives and breathes his art as a Photographer, Graphic Artist and Web Designer at a media company based in Abu Dhabi.

Richard Pagulayan Growing up in Baggao, Cagayan Valley, a small town brimming with diverse landscapes and culture, Richard Pagulayan is no accidental artist; nature has conspired to make him one. Now a graphic and web designer in Oman, he continues to share his passion for the art.

He loves photography, and is involved in several fashion shoots. He also enjoys

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capturing life’s greatest moments birthdays and weddings - on camera. He shares his love for his craft through PEP Oman (Philippine Expat Photographer’s Oman), which he founded himself.

He’s currently into DSLR videography, naming Mayad Studios as his foremost inspiration in pursuing it.

A platform for budding Filipino creative talent

ILLUSTRADO SCRAPBOOK 53

Raffy Dulay Raffy Dulay’s burning passion for capturing enchanting sceneries started when he was merely thirteen years old. “Whenever my family and I would go on vacation, I’d gaze longingly out the window, wishing I had a camera to capture every amazing detail out there,” he confesses.

Raffy’s love for his art has been hardened by his need for selfdevelopment. What’s impressive is that he’s never had any formal lessons in photography; he’s been gorging himself in how-to photography books and videos since day one - that is, when he first laid his hands on a camera.

Primarily a nature photographer, Raffy likes using natural elements - lighting, rain and shadows - to enhance the quality of his shots. It’s these skills that landed him a job as an Event Photographer for one of Bahrain’s travel magazines.

At present, Raffy works as a Graphic Designer at an advertising agency - - far cry from his previous career - due to better opportunities.

No longer photographing professionally, he’s set up a community of talented hobbyists, the Middle East Shutter Squad, and seeks to share the meaning of this addictive art with fellow camera-triggerhappy photographers.

54 FASHION

Alluringly feminine pieces of the season set against Manila’s most romantic spot…

PHOTOGRAPHY: FILBERT KUNG AND GLENN PETER PEREZ OF BLACKFOX STYLING: CHARMAINE PALERMO OF MONSTERS PRODUCTION HAIR AND MAKE-UP: GEORGINNA DESUASIDO MODEL: MICHELLE PANEMANGLOR

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ROYAL BLUE MESH BACKLESS JUMPSUIT WITH GOLD APPLIQUES

BY ERIC DE LOS SANTOS

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56 FASHION

DRAPED RED MESH DRESS WITH RED TASSLE TOP

BY ERIC DE LOS SANTOS; NECKPIECE BY CHRIS DIAZ AVAILABLE AT MYTH; SHOES BY ALDO

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FASHION 57

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58 FASHION GRAY LONGSLEEVES LACE DRESS WITH BEADS DESIGN AND MESH TAIL BY CHARINA SARTE.

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FASHION 59 NUDE LACE CORSET TUBE DRESS WITH MESH ROUCHING BY CHARINA SARTE; GOLD CUFF BY JOEL ESCOBER AVAILABLE AT MYTH; GOLD HEELS BY LYN, PHILIPPINE FLAG CLUTCH MADE OF MOTHER OF PEARL, SHELLS, AND WOOD BY ROCIO, AVAILABLE AT L MANILA IN GREENBELT 5 OR BY ORDER THROUGH THE ROCIO STUDIO

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60 FASHION ROYAL BLUE MESH BACKLESS JUMPSUIT WITH GOLD APPLIQUES BY ERIC DE LOS SANTOS

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FASHION 61

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62 FASHION TEAL BLUE GOWN BY JOEL ESCOBER AVAILABLE AT MYTH; BLACK ROUNDTOE SUEDE PUMPS FROM ALDO

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FASHION 63 BLACK PRINTED ONE SHOULDER CAFTAN DRESS WITH BACK FLOWER DESIGN AND RESIN SILVER, ALL BY FANNY SERRANO

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64 FASHION

DRAPED RED MESH DRESS WITH RED TASSLE TOP

BY ERIC DE LOS SANTOS; NECKPIECE BY CHRIS DIAZ AVAILABLE AT MYTH; SHOES BY ALDO

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FASHION 65 CREAM FLOWY MESH LONG GOWN WITH STONE BEADS BY LOUIS CLAPAROLS, AVAILABLE AT MYTH, GREENBELT 5

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66 ADVERTORIAL

Beautiful Begins with Dove How a woman feels about her looks can greatly affect her overall selfesteem and happiness. That’s why Dove is committed to helping all women realize their personal beauty potential by creating products that deliver genuine improvement to the condition of skin and hair. Dove wants women to fall in love with the ritual of becoming beautiful everyday with the new range of products that offer superior care. Discover how Beautiful begins with Dove.

Wash away the damage: Dove Damage Therapy shampoo with fiber active technology, repairs hair on the inside and leaves each strand beautifully soft and silky on the outside. Replenish your radiant skin: Dove Body Lotions and Creams nourish skin deep down so it feels smooth and soft throughout the day. Nourish your skin with moisture: Dove Body Wash NutriumMoisture™ gives your skin the nourishment it requires and locks it in to leave your skin feeling soft and smooth, long after your shower. Dove Beauty bar provides deep

nourishment that is PH neutral, which means it’s gentle on skin and contains ¼ moisturizing cream making it soft and clean, so your skin won’t feel dry. Show off your confidence: Dove Deodorant range keeps your underarms feeling soft and fresh all day long while the ¼ moisturizing cream helps care for your skin.

The number one feminine wash Experience a fresh, clean feeling everyday! pH Care is a feminine wash that is clinically formulated for everyday use. It has a pH level of 5 which matches the pH of the external feminine area. It allows thorough cleansing while maintaining its natural pH. It has Dual Hydrating Moisturizers, Glycerin and Panthenol, which maintain skin’s natural moisture. pH Care has no harsh ingredients that can cause irritations. Plus, it’s also enriched with natural extracts of Chamomile for healthy skin. It is available in leading hypermarkets and pharmacies.

PH Care’s exclusive agent in the Middle East is Suffolk International LLC. For inquiries, contact Tel. +9714 3461300 or e-mail: suffolkinternational@hotmail.com

Hadi Enterprises: The home ware success story

Hadi Enterprises is part of the renowned Al Abbas Group, one of the oldest business houses in the region. It was established in 1979 as a medium sized departmental store offering a wide range of household and novelty products. Quality products, affordable prices and a memorable shopping experience have been the hallmarks of Hadi since its inception.

In a line of business where the decision makers are chiefly the discerning homemakers, there is no short cut to win over their appreciation. This is precisely why Hadi Enterprises built their brand around the promise of supreme quality. Hadi Enterprises offers high quality, durable and elegant products at competitive prices. Apart from its retail outlet, it has a wide distribution network of over 1000 dealers in the U.A.E. and G.C.C. countries. Its aggressive logistics strategy and network gives it a strong presence in the market, assuring dominance in the product segments it distributes.

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It has a strong hold over the household products and the institutional sector, having the distributorship rights of well known brands such as Golden Fire Hotpots, Bormioli Rocco Glassware, Four Seasons Bedding, Clayton crockery, Richardson Sheffield Knives, Libbey Glassware, Anchor Hocking Oven ware, Landex Melamine ware ,LaCafetiere Coffee and Tea Making Accessories, RCR crystal ware, Horselane Dinnerware, Anolon Cookware, Queen Anne Tableware & Giftware, Marinex Bakeware, Solingen Cutlery, Pedrini Kitchen Gadgets, Pigeon Home Appliances, Churchill Crockery, WaltherGlas Glassware, Diners Delight Table ware, Goldcrest Bedding, etc.

The Hadi Enterprises showroom is conveniently located in Umm Hurair road, Karama, next to the Zomorrodah Building. Spread over 5,500 sq ft, the showroom offers the finest collection of bed linen, exclusive Italian items like show pieces, Murano glassware, serving trolleys and gift items.

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Albert Andrada

Philippine Fashion Week Holiday 2011 Grand Allure 15th May 2011 Photos by Melson Bolongaita

70 ILLUSTRADO RUNWAY

Aldwin Guardiana

Al Ain 7th Wedding Show 12th May 2011 Photos by Richard Martinez and Marco Paulo Sugpatan Epino

72 FASHION

HERE COMES THE

HAUTE COUTURE BRIDE Amazingly feminine and lavishly stylish, this season’s truly high fashion brides are not shy to shine and make that once-in-alifetime grand entrance. Forget about quietly demure dresses, here come the haute couture brides of fashion greats Ezra Santos, Michael Cinco and Furne One.

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EZRA SANTOS

Photos courtesy of Ezra Santos.

Photography by Toufic Araman, Stylists - Warren Vender and Michael Del Mar, Hair by Erwin Sapio and Make-Up by Jessie Tabla

“AFRIQUE de OR� bride - embracing the nuances of white accentuated with modern African ornamentations and crystallizations; a reinterpretation deplete of colors and yet rich in elaborate symmetry and tapestry with a profusion of painstaking embroidery and jewelry in the form of gold and semi precious stones

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EZRA SANTOS

74 FASHION

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76 FASHION PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL CINCO. PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDY KENNEDY HAIR AND MAKE-UP DENIE PASION STRAPLESS BALLGOWN WITH LAYERS AND LAYERS OF IMPALPABLE TULLE LADEN WITH BAROQUE PATTERNS OF CUT-LACE APPLIQUÉS AND SPRINKLED WITH WHITE PEARLS AND SEQUINS

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MICHAEL CINCO illustrado Magazine

78 FASHION OFF SHOULDERED FLOOR LENGTH DRESS OUTLINED WITH CRYSTAL BEADING AND LASER-CUT LACE APPLICATIONS ENDS WITH A MULTI-LAYERING OF CASCADING RUFFLES SERVING AS BUSTLE AND TRAIN

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MICHAEL CINCO illustrado Magazine

80 FASHION PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMATO COUTURE. PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRISTINA LINAZA AND MARIYAH GASPACHO. AN OFF-WHITE BRIDAL DRESS MADE OF FRENCH TULLE WITH LAYERS AND LAYERS OF BILLOWING FOLDS, ELABORATE EMBROIDERY AND CRYSTAL EMBELLISHMENTS, BRINGS SEXY BACK IN ROMANCE .

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FURNE ONE AN OFF-WHITE WEDDING GOWN WITH TOP LAVISHED WITH SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS WHICH GRADUATES SLOWLY INTO THE DIFFERENT SIZES AND SHAPES. THE PIECE FEATURES MULTITIERED FOLDS OF FRENCH TULLE AS FROTHY AS A PUFF OF SOFT MARSHMALLOWS.

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82 FASHION A SNOW WHITE WEDDING GOWN WITH A CRYSTAL ENCRUSTED TOP AND A SWEEPING SKIRT MUTED WITH AN OVERLAY OF SOFT SILK TULLE AND A BOUQUET OF ROSES IN DIFFERENT SIZES AT THE HEMLINE

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FASHION 83 A DREAMY CONFECTION IN CREAMY WHITE SCALED STYLE FILIGREES ACCENTUATES THE WITH SOFT DEFINED EMBROIDERY AND CRYSTAL EMBELLISHED TOP THAT GRACEFULLY BILLOWS INTO A FROTHY AND VOLUMINOUS SKIRT

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5 Month 84 TRIPPIN’

things To Do This

Admit it. Pinoys hate getting toasted under the sun. We think of summer as a nightmare, especially if this would mean a darker shade of tan. Here in Dubai where the temperature – not to mention the humidity level – can go through the roof a lot of us would just hide indoors, and let the season pass us by. But Illustrado believes that that is not healthy attitude towards the beautiful summer. Believe it or not, despite the soaring heat, there is no denying that there are lots of ways to have fun under the blazing sun. The beach, the pools, the malls are all inviting us to go outdoors and taste the wonders of the season. So, read on as we give you some tips for beating the heat and enjoying the summer without much hassles and worries.

Take the plunge

Summer, of course, is best spent in water. Here in Dubai, if you’d like to go a bit overboard in your water activity, go to the grand Atlantis Hotel and experience the adventures offered at Aquaventure. This water theme park is in one of the world’s most luxurious hotels and is home to Leap of Faith, the 27.5 meter tall and 61 metre water slide. Riders of this Leap of Faith are definitely going to need the power of prayers in getting through the shark-filled lagoon. While taking the Leap of Faith entails great trust and confidence, there are other rides in Aquaventure that are less precarious yet equally fun – try out the water slides, river rides and beach amenities in Aquaventure.

Aside from Aquaventure, the Wild Wadi Park, along Jumeirah Beach Road right before the entrance of the Burj Al Arab, is a must-visit water park as well. It has a wave pool, along with several water slides as well as artificial surfing machines.

Also, Wild Wadi’s rides include – the falcon fury, tunnel of Doom, Rushing Rapids, Tumble Falls, and the Thunder Rapids, as well as Family Ride. Aside from the water activities, Wild Wadi guests can also visit the gift shops in the theme park from where they can purchase souvenirs and gift items.

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Bum around the beach

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There is nothing more heavenly during the summer than lying on the beach sand, listening to the sound of the waves, and simply letting the time pass you by. We assure you, with the stressful work week, bumming at the beach is the ultimate way of detoxifying.

So, do not waste the moment – find some time to have a fun, lazy time at the seaside. Dubai natives know that the Jumeirah Beach Park and Mamzar Beach Park are some good of the more popular and affordable alternatives. Or, if you want to check out the beach resorts in Dubai, they offer day passes to non-guests. The day pass will entitle you to use their beach facilities including water sports such as kayaking, banana boat ride, jet skiing, surfing and a lot more. Le Meridien Mina Seyahi, Westin Dubai, Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab are some of the hotels that you can check out for the best beach views and amenities in the city.

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Rent a yacht and go fish

If you want to experience the summer of your lifetime then you might as well go over the top – tour Dubai (or the other emirates) in a yacht! A number of charter operators like Xclusive Yachts operating from the Dubai Marine Yacht Club can help plan your itinerary, select the best places to visit, alert you to local events and generally provide all the tips to ensure that yours is a perfect yacht trip. They can organize a menu to suit your tastes and arrange parties which could include extras, as well as limousine transport. They also have deep sea fishing and coastal cruising available for charter. On the other hand, yacht operator Marine Concept can help you enjoy the tranquility of the Arabic Gulf by providing a sophisticated charter service with magnificent luxury yachts in the world’s finest cruising destinations. But if chartering a yacht is not enough part of your marine dreams, try fishing and cruising instead. Al Wasl Cruising and Fishing can arrange a full day or half day fishing trip for you. Don’t worry about getting your hands dirty when putting out the bait, this experience happens once in a while so, we say, better enjoy every minute of it.

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Indulge in the Dubai Summer Surprises

The wait is finally over. Summer is here, and once more people in the emirates (and other countries) are going to crowd the Dubai malls for the Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) from June 22nd up until July 31st. The year-on-year summer shopping festival is about to offer once again the biggest discounts and most tempting bargains. Aside from these, shopping malls around the city are expected to be buzzing with lots of activities and entertaining shows.

There are exhibits for culture and arts as well. So, head on to our favorite malls – Mall of the Emirates, The Dubai Mall, Dubai Festival City and Mirdif City Centre – and get the chance to be surprised with products on hefty discounts, shows that are good for family entertainment, and even the chance to win from various raffle draws and mall competitions. For more information, visit the dedicated websites to DSS: www.mydsf.com and www.dubaievents.ae.

Go eat something hot

If you find that water and sun activities were not really meant for you then we suggest that you just try a different adventure instead. This season we challenge you to go beyond your comfort zones, and try eating dishes with a complex blend of spices.

Discover sumptuous Lebanese dishes at Reem Al Bawadi in Jumeirah Beach Road and Al Hallab in Al Garhoud. For neophytes, we suggest to try popular favorites sheesh tawook or mixed grills. There are also Turkish, Thai and Greek restaurants that are worthy for first timers. If your palate is ready to go bold, we dare you to check out Indian food from Copper Chimney, a well-known Indian food franchise at Emirates Hills.

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86 FOOD

The Taste of

MeMories of HoMe

By Angela Mapa Photo Courtesy of Purple Yam

As a young professional whisked off to the US at the start of Philippine martial law, Amy Besa was uncertain of ever returning home. In her early years abroad, food served as a tenuous umbilical cord linking her back to the Philippines. Later, food became Amy’s life as she, together with her husband, Romy, opened two restaurants in New York where they settled and even write books about memories cooked up in Philippine kitchens.

It was the 1970s in New York and despite the unavailability of traditional Filipino ingredients in America, Amy managed to cobble together many of her childhood favorites. She and husband, business partner Romy Dorotan, shared a passion for food. It was Romy’s love for food that led him to become, in the words of a New York critic, one of the city’s unsung fine chefs — an unlikely accolade for a Business Economics graduate who began his career in the kitchen as a dishwasher.

Amy and Romy were the dynamic duo behind Cendrillon, a quaint Filipino/nouveau Pan Asian restaurant in New York’s Soho district.

Choosing to name a Filipino restaurant after a French opera of the Cinderella story may have struck some as odd, yet the name fit the

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restaurant as well as the glass slipper did the story’s heroine. Just as Cinderella’s fairy godmother waved her magic wand and transformed a soot-covered girl into the belle of the royal ball, Amy and Romy turned traditional Filipino and Southeast Asian fare into magical versions of their original counterparts.

From 1995 to 2009, Cendrillon gave many familiar dishes a quirky twist - think bibingka with gouda and feta instead of the usual kesong puti or, adobo simmered in sherry vinegar. While experimentation was the norm at Cendrillon, the owners knew not to mess with perfection. Classics like Amy’s Nanay’s fried spring rolls also graced the menu.

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our cuisine or the sometimes daring things she had had to sample in the quest for knowledge, and in the name of love for food.

To the disappointment of foodies, Cendrillon performed its swan song and bowed out of the Soho district in 2009.

Later that year, however, the pair opened the doors of Purple Yam in the cozy Brooklyn neighborhood of Ditmas Park. As New York Magazine put it, “Soho’s loss was Ditmas Park’s gain.” Despite a new menu featuring some notable Korean-inspired dishes, loyal Cendrillon customers can still enjoy Cendrillon best-sellers like Amy’s beloved spring rolls and the celebrated savory rich adobo. It may be in a different neighborhood and there may be a new sign above the door, but Purple Yam serves up the same spirit that Cendrillon did for more than a decade.

Prominently displayed at Purple Yam is the award-winning book, Memories of Philippine Kitchens. Another collaboration of the culinary couple, the book features page after page of colorful personal food memories, Philippine heirloom recipes, recipes from the Cendrillon and Purple Yam kitchens, Philippine food traditions and gorgeous glossy photos of indigenous ingredients and native delicacies. It is a vivid documentation of the role that food and eating together as a favorite bonding activity for Filipinos has played and continues to play in our society.

The book took years to research and put together. Amy and Romy came home to document recipes and culinary techniques that are rapidly disappearing. They were determined to track down the best of the best, even if it meant trudging down rough paths or descending upon unsuspecting cottage business owners hard at work.

When asked about the experience of writing Memories of Philippine Kitchens, Amy threw back her head and laughed heartily. “It was an eye opener”, she shared — and she was not referring to the many interesting cooking techniques she had encountered, the startling similarities and differences between the regional styles, the origin of

Alas, the most remarkable revelation was closer to home. The biggest surprise to her was her husband. “Being married to someone for so many years,” she surmised, “you’d think you’d know that person well.” And yet there were times during the research when she wanted to turn to her husband of more than a decade and asked, “Who ARE you?”

Writing the book, something she had known for years became abundantly clear: you are what you eat. Food and your experience of it make you who you are and her food experience was vastly different from her husband’s.

Of the two, Amy is the purist. She yearns to go back to basics; she wants us to rediscover our roots. She champions the use of the palayok or bamboo for cooking dishes that were traditionally cooked in those vessels — not to make life unnecessarily complicated for people of the non-stick pan generation but for us to discover how wonderful traditional dishes really taste. The once ubiquitous, now-nowhereto-be-found palayok truly does lend itself to the perfect adobo, the most sumptuous sinigang.

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Amy’s food ideals harken back to her summers spent with her grandmother Nanay in Iba, Zambales. In a house where fragrant mangoes ripened on the ledge that wrapped around the house, Amy learned to prepare food just so. Every step had a purpose, every ingredient — no matter how seemingly insignificant — was just as crucial as the next. Her food experience taught her to value the integrity of traditional recipes, ingredients and techniques. For Amy, when making adobo, vinegar and no other souring agent should be used, salt is more traditional than soy sauce and sugar in adobo is unheard of.

In contrast, Romy is by far the more off-beat and whimsical cook.

He takes a food memory and infuses it with ingredients and cooking techniques plucked from his dreams. While he is self-taught, he is quite proficient in classic French cookery and does not hesitate to use French cooking techniques to prepare Filipino food. His fanciful combination of ingredients also highlights the qualities of each component. An adobo flakes pan de sal he used to snack on at a cafeteria at the University of the Philippines inspired him to concoct a marvel of crispy adobo flakes with unusual accoutrements sandwiched in a freshly baked purple yam bun that a boulanger in Paris would be proud to put on its shelves.

Many people wonder why Filipino food has yet to have widespread appeal among non-Filipinos. “Oh I hate it when people say that we need to elevate our food by doing this or that,” she replied vehemently as she demonstrated arranging food into towers and pyramids then squeezing out lines of sauce from a squeeze bottle.

“The way to elevate our food,” she enthused — drawing imaginary quotation marks in the air around the word “elevate” to show that

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she did not really think our food was in need of any elevation at all, “would be to serve real food.” Amy has been quoted as being appalled that many top restaurants in Manila resort to using instant bullion cubes. “We must use the best ingredients, we should not cut corners. We need to respect the integrity of the ingredients and recipes we use.”

It is clear that Amy firmly believes that we should celebrate what is innately Filipino about our food. In order to highlight the quality of our ingredients we need to understand why our ancestors cooked the way they did: to showcase and preserve the freshness and natural flavors of the dish in a time before refrigeration. Ironically, the fusion fare Amy and Romy serve does not seem to be in keeping with Amy’s ideals.

“Well,” Amy conceded, “Philippine food is all about balance. When we eat something fatty or rich like chicharon, we instinctively know that it needs something acidic like vinegar to cut the grease.” And so she acknowledges that her husband’s palate is extraordinarily exceptional and that his eccentricities are a stroke of genius. His vision of what Filipino food could and should help her ideals take flight, while her being rooted in tradition anchor his dreams and give them more depth.

Despite their differences in their food experiences, Amy and Romy do share a common philosophy when it comes to food and creating a food experience for their diners: use the freshest and the best things to work with and never cut corners. It is a philosophy that makes for a recipe for success both in and out of the kitchen.

90 GLOBAL BARRIO A glimpse At the lives of filipinos living in different countries Around the globe.

My Pinoy Life In...

Copenhagen

Denmark Christina Aparente

Since when have you been living there? Can you recount briefly why you moved there?

Before moving to Denmark in July 2007, I lived as a nurse in London for eight years. At that time, I was in a relationship with my Danish boyfriend - now husband, Michael - who I met while on a holiday in Boracay. We maintained a long distance relationship for a time, as he was still living in Copenhagen. We finally tied the knot in 2005. As soon as that had sunk in, we both knew it was only a matter of time until one of us had to move, and off to Denmark I went!

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Tell us something about your host city/country.

Denmark is home to Hans Christian Andersen, who authored the classic, “The Little Mermaid.”

The statue of Denmark’s “Beloved Daughter” stands in the harbor of Copenhagen and is not only the most famous attraction in the country’s capital but also now the national landmark.

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Coupled with a beautiful harbor, Copenhagen’s places of interest include the long, cobble-stoned pedestrian shopping street called Strøget, which is a huge treat for shoppers during Christmas season.

Copenhagen is also famous for its amusement park, Tivoli, which is located at the heart of the city. One of the oldest of its kind, Tivoli inspired Walt Disney, shaping his vision for what was later to become Disneyland. While in town, must-try delicacies include Danish pastries, bacon, Lurpak butter and yes, the famous, Carlsberg beer.

What do you do for a living?

Since moving, I have been working as a full time surgical nurse at Rigs Hospital, one of the largest medical facilities in the country.

There are not many Filipinos working here - you could probably count them with your fingers - and there are not much foreigners either. Elsewhere, however, is another matter entirely.

Is there a Filipino community there?

There are about 8,000 Filipinos in Denmark, along with a few organizations that cater to them. One of the biggest, the FAD (Filipino Association in DK), spearheads annual events like the Barrio Fiesta, which provides wholesome entertainment, food stalls featuring Filipino delicacies, and fun activities for all ages. They also organize Philippine Independence day celebration parties every year.

I join the activities once in a while, when my schedule permits.

Tell us about your life there.

Historically, the Danes came from a line of some of the most fearsome Viking sailors of the pre-medieval ages. With its rich history, Copenhagen has retained the grandeur of its fine olden day architectural structures dating back to the reign of the monarchs.

Today, Denmark has a population of approximately 5 million.

Bicycles are favored over buses, trains and subway systems as a means of public transportation. Denmark experiences cool summers and mild-to-moderate winters. Recently though, heavy winters have been common, with temperatures as low as -20 degrees in some parts of the country.

I could best describe my life in Denmark as a bittersweet chocolate bar; it has its moments, as well as its drawbacks. Starting out and getting over the language barrier, for one, was a struggle. It’s no surprise that landing a job was problem for me, too. Imagine attempting to immerse yourself with people who speak a language totally different from yours. One should be mentally prepared for the battle before entering the country. It is probably one of the most difficult languages in the world to learn! Most of my classmates in the language school said so (they come from all over the world). Them of course, there’s the problem of landing a job due to the language barrier. Mind you, it will take years for one to become fluent. Four years maybe is acceptable for the gifted ones. It’s really tough!

I started working after my first year of learning the language. I had a probationary job at one of the hospitals in the city. I took the plunge, thinking that it would give me the advantage of assimilating into the society faster. It did help, but it also meant being put under an enormous amount of stress. I was totally out of my comfort zone, away from good old English-speaking London. Now that’s definitely something I never thought I could do – all in the name of love.

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Living in London before moving to DK gave me an edge when it came to adjusting to the Danish system and culture. Keeping an open mind and being patient and understanding helped me cope. It may have taken me three and a half years to accomplish, but I have finally settled.

Life here is a bit more laid-back than it is in London. It’s cozier, cleaner and the crime rate is much lower too. What I like most about this place is being able to cycle or walk back home after a night out with friends - I don’t have to worry about someone mugging me on the streets.

During spring and summertime, I love going out on fishing trips and cycling around the city and the outskirts with my friends. We visit a lot of beautiful beaches too, but the frigid water temperatures keep me from swimming. I also enjoy going to bars with my friends in the evenings, and spending some “me-time” at fitness clubs. Sometimes I go and visit my Filipino friends to cook Filipino food and sing karaoke.

I am also interested in traveling. I love touring around Europe and America, and I’d love to visit countries I haven’t gone to yet. We have six weeks of vacation here in Denmark, too. What’s there not to love?

I have also discovered my latest passion, diving - though I’m not too keen on diving in the icy waters of Scandinavia. I’m already looking forward to my next planned vacation in Florida this August. I’m also looking forward to my Philippine dive this Christmas. I’ll be able to see my family and embrace the Philippine seas once more. There is definitely no place like home!

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What cultural practices/behaviors have you acquired from your host country?

I became a staunch abider of traffic regulations. I found myself steering clear of the occasional slip-up - hitting the accelerator on a red light, especially when there are no cars at all. I have also taken to drinking beer with my meals. It’s the Coke to our Filipino dishes. I quite like it. I have also learned to pay back every single penny owed - even if it’s just one Peso. Nothing, no matter how small, should be ignored.

Despite being surrounded by the Danish community, we still preserve important Filipino customs here like the proper observation of Lent and Easter, and Sunday Mass attendance. In keeping with the closeknit relationships Filipinos share with their families, I stay in touch with my relatives in Manila and General Santos City through phone and email.

Your message to Filipinos across the globe –

I would like to congratulate those Filipinos who survived the initial difficulties of settling in a new country. You all deserve a pat on the back for not considering quitting an option.On the other hand, for those of you starting out, don’t scare yourselves too much. If anything, I believe that people of different nations, regardless of color, creed and language can live together peacefully through shared compassion and understanding.

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94 BAKASYON GRANDE

Taking The norTh by bus

Ever tried taking a trip along the North Philippines loop? That is, taking a bus from Manila up to Cagayan or Ilocos, then returning to Manila via the other side? The four regions north of Metro Manila - Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, the Cordilleras and Central Luzon - are amazing destinations that can all be reached by bus. Here, travel blogger and Philippine culture expert Ivan Henares maps out an itinerary, with special focus on our UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Day 1 - Manila to Banaue

From Sampaloc, Manila, take a late evening bus direct to Banaue and arrive early the next morning. It is an 8-hour bus ride that passes through Nueva Vizcaya on the way to Banaue. Since it is an evening bus ride, you can sleep for the most part. One of the bumpy parts of the ride is the zigzag drive up Dalton Pass, the boundary of Nueva Ecija and Nueva Vizcaya where buses have no choice but to try to overtake slow moving trucks.

As soon as you arrive, proceed to the Banaue Hotel, the best accommodation in the area, and catch up on sleep so that you’ll have enough energy to take the trek the next day. The Banaue Hotel is one of two places where you can hire accredited jeeps and guides at fixed rates. The jeep to Batad Saddle costs PHP2,500 while the guide fee is PHP900.

Day 2 - Rice Terraces

The Batad Rice Terraces are among the most spectacular of the Ifugao Rice Terraces. And aptly so since it’s one of the five rice terrace clusters inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List under Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras. The other four are Bangaan, Hungduan, Mayoyao and Nagacadan.

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BAKASYON GRANDE 95 The trip to the Batad Saddle was about an hour and thirty minutes from Banaue. The road to the Batad Saddle is quite bad; when it rains it can be impassable to vehicles. When this happens, be ready to get off the jeep and walk a few hundred meters up to the Batad Saddle.

and Seascapes, particularly Callao Cave. But a better-preserved and less-visited cave also within the Callao Ecotourism Zone is nearby Sierra Cave. It’s a 20-meter steep climb to get to the entrance, but navigating inside is manageable.

It’s mostly downhill to the Batad Rice Terraces from the Batad Saddle which makes the trek a bit easier. It takes another hour of trekking to get to Batad. At the entrance to Batad Village is a tourist information booth where visitors log and pay a donation to the community. It also offers a really great view of the Batad Rice Terraces. Have lunch at Simon’s Place and try the Batad version of pizza before starting your trek back up, which is actually the hard part. At the end of the trek, board your jeep for the bumpy trip back to Banaue.

The crystal and limestone formations inside are still continuously forming, which is why extra care is taken in protecting the cave by limiting people inside. In fact, tour guides only take in a maximum of twelve people at a time. In the cave, it’s cool near the entrance, but as you get deeper inside, it gets really warm. Enjoy the spectacular formations and observe the animal life inside the cave. You will be asked to turn off all your lights and keep quiet for a few seconds just to experience the feeling of silence in total darkness.

Aside from spelunking and other adventure activities, Cagayan also has several centuries-old churches. But it would be difficult to stopover unless you have a vehicle of your own.

Day 3 - Banaue to Tuguegarao via

Solano

You can easily get transportation to Solano, Nueva Vizcaya from Banaue. And from Solano, hoping on a bus to Tugugarao is very convenient. As soon as you arrive in Tuguegarao, start exploring the city and make sure to try out the Pancit Batil-Patung.

Day 5 - Tuguegarao to Pagudpud

Next is the long trip from Tuguegarao to Laoag. You could stop over at the churches of Iguig, Alcala, Lal-lo, Camalaniugan and Pamplona if you have your own vehicle. But since buses to Laoag are not that frequent, you might just have to sit it out the next five to seven hours until you reach Pagudpud.

Well preserved inside although its façade had already been renovated, the Iguig Church, is popular for the Iguig Calvary Hills – a lifesize tableau of the Stations of the Cross. On the otherhand, Alcala Church, dedicated to Saint Philomene, is the widest church in the Cagayan Valley. The town is also known for its carabao milk candies.

Lal-lo was once known as the Ciudad de Nueva Segovia before it was transferred to Vigan. Thus, the Lal-lo Church was the once the cathedral and seat of the Diocese of Nueva Segovia. Camalaniugan Church has the oldest Catholic bell in the Far East which was created in 1595. Sadly, the old church was burned some years back and the priest chose to flatten the ruins and build a totally new church. Behind the church, right by the river, are ruins of an even older church.

Day 4 - Around Tuguegarao

Cagayan is positioning itself as the Caving Capital of the Philippines, a title it can rightfully claim with its great spelunking options for beginners and serious cave enthusiasts.

The most popular are the caves in the Peñablanca Protected Landscapes

Mairaira Cove in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte is one of the more picturesque beaches of North Philippines. It’s also called Blue Lagoon because of the deep blue waters of Mairaira, especially when viewed from the top of the hill as you enter or exit the cove. A few meters after Patapat Viaduct, you’ll see a waiting shed with signs pointing towards Mairaira Beach. That’s where you get off and take a tricycle to Kapuluan Vista Resort, the best accommodation in the area. You

96 BAKASYON GRANDE The fortress-like church, whose construction began in 1694 and completed sometime between 1702 to 1710, rises like a mirage in the middle of a vast square. The church, which is so unique in the country with its heavy set buttresses and finials giving it a silhouette similar to Asian temples, is also considered by art critics as the pinnacle of earthquake Baroque architecture.

Indeed, the Paoay Church stands as a testament to the immense creativity and ingenuity of the Filipino craftsmen who built its massive walls. It serves as a reminder for the current and future generations of Filipinos that heritage must be preserved and valued if we are to move forward as a nation.

Day 6 - Pagudpud to Laoag

The ride from Pagudpud to Laoag takes about three hours. From the Mairaira Junction, just wait for the bus from Tuguegarao which goes to Laoag. If you have a private vehicle, stop-over at the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos and the Wind Farm in Bangui.

After you check in at your hotel, it’s time to explore downtown Laoag. Make sure to eat at Saramsam Restaurant which is known for its fusion pizzas and traditional Ilocano food. Their specialty is the Poque-Poque Pizza, which is pizza topped with poque-poque, an Ilocano eggplant dish: eggplant, tomatoes, onions and egg.

If you still have the appetite, try the Dinardaraan Pizza: dinuguan topped with green chili peppers; Longaniza Pizza topped with the local Laoag longaniza; and the Carbonara Pizza topped with Currimao oysters.

Day 8 - Laoag to Vigan Day 7 - Around Laoag, Paoay and Batac Ever heard of sandboarding? Sandboarding is very similar to snowboarding. The only difference is that it’s done on sand dunes rather than snow-capped hills. It’s the newest adventure activity, apart from 4x4 offroading, in Ilocos Norte, which has its very own desert of sorts - the Ilocos Norte Sand Dunes.

After the exciting 4x4 ride and sandboarding at the Ilocos Norte Sand Dunes, and a brief stopover at the Lake Paoay View Deck, proceed to the Paoay Church. You could arrange for the 4x4s to take you to this UNESCO World Heritage Site - a must-visit when in Ilocos Norte.

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From Batac, you can hop on a southward-bound bus to reach Vigan, Ilocos Sur. The Historic Town of Vigan was inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999, cited for its representation of a unique fusion of Asian building design and construction with European colonial architecture and planning. The UNESCO description of Vigan reads, “Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe, resulting in a culture and townscape that have no parallel anywhere in East and South-East Asia.”

The ride to Vigan is about two to three hours. As soon as you checkin your hotel, you can start exploring the historic core.

BAKASYON GRANDE 97 In the evening, if you have a group of at least five people, you might want to arrange dinner at the Arce Mansion where you can re-live the good life of the Spanish and American colonial period - complete with period costumes! Here, as soon as you arrive, you are given welcome drinks and will be ushered into the costume room where you can choose from a range of rich ilustrado garbs to outfits made for the simple indio, a gobernadorcillo, military officer, bishop or monk.

They even have a Chinese costume since Vigan was known to have a lot of mestizos de sangley.

After you change into your costumes, you will be ushered into a room for souvenir photos, colonial style, complete with all the props which include large chairs, vases on pedestals and large fans for the ladies.

The dining room is air-conditioned so don’t worry about eating in your costumes. They serve local Ilocano food. And while eating, you are serenaded with vernacular folk songs. After dinner, you are ushered into the main living room for dessert, tea and coffee, and more photos for a perfect nightcap.

Destinations by Bus Terminals

Each town has either a central bus terminal or bus companies have their own terminals. Here’s the road trip broken down by bus stops Sampaloc Bus Terminal of Florida Liner to Banaue Banaue Terminal to Solano (anywhere along the highway) Solano (along the highway, ask any of the locals where the bus stop is) to Tuguegarao Terminal

Day 9 - Vigan to Manila If you want to take great photos of Crisologo Street, and other significant places around Vigan, without the crowds and the clutter of the souvenir shops, 6 to 8 a.m. is the best time to do that since the streets are deserted and the shops closed.

For lunch, try the Hidden Garden, which is just a few minutes by tricycle from the city center. There you can binge on pinakbet, okoy, ensaladang rabong, Vigan empanada, bagnet, dinaldalem (a dish of pork and pork innards such as lungs, liver and heart), and dinengdeng (similar to pinakbet but more of the bagoong soup base).

Before heading home take another food stop – this time for merienda at Abuelita’s Restaurant where you can try out the empanada (this one had cabbage), okoy, the local bibingka, patupat and miki.

From Vigan, take the evening bus back to Manila with a happy stomach and camera loaded with pictures, and your mind loaded with memories.

Tuguegarao Terminal to Pagudpud (junction) Pagudpud (junction) to Laoag Terminal Laoag to Paoay to Batac by 4x4 Batac (along the highway, ask any of the locals where the bus stop is) to Vigan Vigan Terminal to Manila

Making the long bus rides tolerable

Taking the night buses saves on accommodation costs and daylight time that could otherwise be used for visiting sites and other activities.

Make sure to have medication for motion sickness as some roads like Cagayan Valley has a lot of zigzag roads. It’s also best to have a sick bag in case of emergencies.

Bring wet wipes or toilet paper just in case you need to use the toilet.

98 COMMUNITY

FIGMEs 3rd Philippine Independence Day Golf Invitational The 3rd edition of the Philippine Independence Day Golf Invitational is set to kick off on 17th June 2011 at the famous Majlis Championship course of the Emirates Golf Club.

The annual event is an OOM (Order of Merit) qualifier for the 2011 season organized by Filipino Golfers in the Middle East (FIGME) with a total strength of 130 golfers comprising of Filipinos, Europeans, Americans and Asians as well. The golf tournament highlights the 113th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence with the theme, “A Progressive Nation in Action”.

Guest of honor, H.E. Philippine Consul General Benito Valeriano will lead the strong delegation of 72 golfers comprised by CEO’s, Managing Directors and Line Managers of various local and international companies.

Ceremonial tee off will start at 13:00 hrs. FIGME officers Ramon Navea (Chairman), Chito Albay (Vice Chairman), Dan Alforte (Finance and Logistics), Vic Liwanag (Secretary) and Brylle Navea (Art & Photography) will lead the operational and logistics requirements.

Ambarish Mukherjee, Cathay Pacific’s Sales and Marketing Manager, UAE & Oman with Ramon Navea, FIGME Chairman as one of the major prizes for the golf event.

Sponsors include CB&I and Cathay Pacific, Western Union, B6 Tourism & Travel, Sensasia Urban Spa, Jumeirah International) as well as Red Bull.

LIALI and Women’s Bowling For the last four years, LIALI has sponsored the LIALI Ladies Bowling League to encourage women to compete in a relaxed atmosphere and enjoy what they like doing the most – bowling. The League runs every Wednesday morning throughout the year at the Dubai Bowling Centre in Al Quoz, and is open to women of all age groups and from all walks of life.

May 25, 2011, saw LIALI organize a fun bowling tournament at the end of the first season of this year before everyone breaks for the summer holidays.

Little Miss and Master Symmetry UAE 2011 Children ages four to seven years of different nationalities took part in the event organized by Bernardita Brillo Mendoza, Sales Manager of Symmetry Direct Al Ain Satellite Office on the 30th April 2011 at the Indian Social Club in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The winners were selected for their beauty, talent, intelligence, and costumes.

The “Little Miss Symmetry UAE 2011” crown went to Kirsten Lianne Ventura Gabriel, and “Little Master Symmetry UAE 2011” went to Jovenal Angelo Blando. Both are students of Philippine National School in Abu Dhabi.

The awards for “Little Miss and Master Symmetry Abu Dhabi 2011” went to Jhie Ann Marie Guinoo

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and Russel Ali Garcia and the “Little Miss and Master Symmetry Dubai 2011” awards went to students from PISCO Abu Dhabi - Shara Chrisly Esteba and William Falhout.

Other special awards were given to participants such as Best in Talent, Sportswear, Super Hero Costumes, Gown and Formal Wear, Darling of the Crowd, Best in Ramp Modeling and Most Photogenic.

The event was sponsored by Goto King Abu Dhabi, Fine Touch Salon in Abu Dhabi, Fast & Quick Cargo, Coriner Cargo, Glamorous Fashion and Gents Saloon, Manuel San Mateo, and Joan Pantoja.

Special thanks to Maynard Dela Cruz and Kristine Ventura for their photography.

100 FILIPINISMS

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

Independence Starts with “I”

By Aby Yap

So, we’re still free.

We braved 300 years in the convent, 50 years in Hollywood, 3 years of Japanese horror (that even Sadako would have been horrified), more than a decade under a kababayan dictator, and EDSA Uno, Dos, Tres. Please, let’s stop here and leave the endless sequels to Shake, Rattle & Roll.

We survived Wok with Yan, Marimar, the F4, and Shawarma. And it won’t be long before we tire of Koreanovelas and their pretty boys’ fab hairstyles. (Tsk, tsk, tsk. But Kwon Sang Woo is way too cute.)

And while we’re at it, is it too much to ask that we outgrow Willie too? Very soon.

From Indios to Ilustrados (hopefully), we shall celebrate our 113th Independence Day.

Independent Pinoy?

In a Filipino household, though, being independent is often next to

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impossible — especially if you’re destined to be the bunso. Doesn’t matter if you have more gray/white hair than your Lolo or that you’re more barako than Max Alvarado, you’ll always be the baby of the family - cuchi cuchi cu - and you’ll never be allowed to leave home.

“Who’ll ever take care of you, poor thing?” they coo at you. (Read: they don’t trust your survival instincts.)

Yes, even if you’ve already got a dozen kids of your own. Because you don’t want Mom doing the Mara Clara stuff and winning the next FAMAS Best Actress Award for taking away her kawawang apos.

Plus, it won’t do her BP any good. You know better than break a Lola’s heart.

Besides, what’s there to complain about? The parents pay the bills.

The OF siblings send pasalubong, sometimes pang-tuition. Auntie does the laundry and ironing. Uncle works on the handyman chores.

Cousin cooks the meals. The maid cleans the house. All you need to do is get up when breakfast is ready, seňorito/seňorita, and enjoy the perks of being a freeloader, thank you.

FILIPINISMS 101

But all of these inevitably come with a price. Freebies in exchange of your freedom! (Our elders are wais.) So, there are Cinderella curfews, over Ten Commandments, more don’ts than do’s than you can count or remember, sermons every day of the week, and interrogation to the max that will put the Senate to shame. Oh, and your privacy!

What privacy? Everyone in the house already knows how loud you snore and fart.

But, hey, if you’re really serious about standing on your feet, you can always have your place near — as in beside, behind, or in front of — your parents’ residence. Invite your Ates and Kuyas to do the same, fence the family’s territory, and you’ve got one neat compound in your neighborhood and family reunions all year round. Don’t forget to display your surname on the gate. (Haven’t you noticed that this is uso in Pinas? At least it will help the postman from getting being lost.)

With this set-up, at least, there’s pride and dignity as you learn how to fend for yourself. For as long as there’s pancit canton, you’ll never go hungry again. For as long as there’s Century Tuna, you’ll never be in want of afritada, mechado, kaldereta, menudo, or lechon paksiw. And if you want the real thing, well, you can always knock at heaven’s, er, your parents’ door.

Buzzword: Indie!

Indie is also short for “independent.”

And in this case, we’re talking about indie films, which brought international recognition to directors Lav Diaz, Brillante Mendoza, and Pepe Diokno. They’re produced without much budget, so don’t expect to see your favorite love teams to in them (unless they’re doing it “for art’s sake,” which is as cliché as “we’re just friends”). Besides, are you sure you want to see Aljur and Kris getting dirty, or madungis?

What were you thinking, anyway? We’re talking about social realities — poverty, violence, injustice, corruption with a little display of flesh or some severed body parts here and there — the profundities of life explored in indie films. Naks!

Now, don’t lose sleep over those big words. It’s just good to set aside

your Enteng Kabisote collection once in a while for something that can fire up your brain cells and prevent Alzheimer’s in the long run. Plus, you have Coco Martin and Mercedes Cabral to help you improve your vision.

Apart from health benefits, indie films have simple titles that don’t coerce you into singing them as mainstream films these days do. Compare Kinatay, Serbis, Kubrador, Lola, and 100 vs. Till My Heartaches End, I’ll Be There, Miss You Like Crazy, In My Life, and A Very Special Love. Remember: you’re going to the movies, not to the videoke.

Then, there’s being financially indie. With the typical Pinoy fated to provide for his/her parents, children, siblings, relatives, and even neighbors, we’re probably beyond what’s called the Sandwich Generation, or being sandwiched by parents and children who depend on you.

Not that we deserve to be congratulated for being kakaiba, but we could very well be the SapinSapin Generation, each colored layer representing our beneficiaries. We’re so sweet that we eagerly share our hard cash with them and they naturally choose to stick with us. (Not quite hard to understand the reason why.)

We’re also fond of looking for sweet deals at shopping malls that we often turn to our precious credit cards. We use and abuse them, and payback time comes with steep interest rates. Kalula! So, we search for stuff to appease us, which is usually in the hands of someone who sweet-talks us into buying it for 10 gives.

Thus, we remain part of the Sapin-Sapin Generation and slaves to financial stress. Our last battle may well be a fight to be free from utang.

Wag mo kaming ibaon sa utang! we cry!

That’s actually a fight that may have to start now before we find ourselves buried neck-deep in debt.

102 FILIPINISMS

The Annie B (Batobalani) Chronicles

The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmpolitan city of Dubai.

100% Tunay Na Pinay Chronicle

50

Last night I had Jollibee for dinner. Nag-crave kasi ako bigla ng Chickenjoy eh - yung malutong na crispylicious balat, na may kakaibang bango na hahanap-hanapin mo talaga. Sobrang excited ko, pakiramdam ko, in a snap of a finger matra-transport ako sa Pilipnas, inside a Jollibee store, at may staff na kukuha ng order ko at tatawagin akong “Ma’am Sir”. But when the door bell in my flat rang, ibang lahi ang nag-abot ng Jollibee meal ko…hindi tulad ng inasahan kong nakangiti at sumisigaw for the next costumer to order.

While I took a bite of my crunchy Chickenjoy, unti-unti akong nawalan ng gana. Feeling ko na-denggoy ako. Teka, ito ba ang kilala kong Chickenjoy na pinapapak ko simula pa noong college ako?

Parang hinde. Napatigil ako, gusto kong ibato sa binta yung manok.

You cheated meeeeh!!! Niloko mo ako! Impostor! Paaakkkkk!!!

Araayyy….ang lakas naman ng sampal sa akin ng flatmate kong si Nerie. “Bes, sorry, akala ko sinasapian ka na ng demonyo...bakit mo tinatalakan yung manok???...Krung-krung ka na yata…”

Well medyo nahimasmasan naman ako in fairnesst. Sakit ah. “Okay lang ko, Bes. May naalala lang ako…” Palusot ko. “Sureness ka ha?

Ihahanada ko na ang crucifix at rosaryo…” biro pa nya.

Going back to my Chickenjoy, ikaw ba talaga yan? Iba ka na eh.

Hindi na pareho nung dati kong nilalafang noon. Iba na ang lasa mo, kulang na sa lutong, wala na yung bango mong nakaka-addik.

Nagbago ka na. Arabo ka na! Anyare???

Habang patuloy kong nginangasab ang bawat kagat ko ng Chickenjoy…naisip ko ang sarili ko. Ako rin ba, am I the same Annie that I was before? Ang Annie na ehemplo ng tunay na pagkaPinay: mahinhin, malumanay, mayumi at busilak ang pagkababae?

Teka, si Maria Clara yata yun. Inisa-isa ko ang mga pagbabago sa aking pagkatao simula nang tumuntong ako dito sa Dubai, sa labas ng aking sinilangan bansa.

To start with, iba na daw ang tunog ng pananalita ko. Tuwing umuuwi ako ng Pilipinas, laging napupuna ng mga kapitbahay namin, pati na rin ng mga kaibigan ko na iba na raw ang tabas ng dila ko. Tunog CNN na raw ako, hindi na pang-TV Patrol. Eh kasi naman, sa tagal kong five years na dito sa Dubai, na-acquire ko na talaga ang British accent. Hindi ko naman sinasadya eh. Pero imagine, boss ko Bitoy, mga officemates ko South African, mga suppliers namin Australian, mga seatmates ko mga Pana – o eh di British accent nga di ba?

Minsan nga nagugulat na lang din ako kapag naririnig ko ang sarili

ko eh. Imbes na “wa-ter”, nasasabi “who-tta”, imbes na “elevator” tawag ko “lift”. Very British di ba? What to do Yani?!!!

Napansin ko rin hindi na ako sanay ng walang AC. Dati-rati kapag summer lang ako naiinitan, sanay naman kasi ako at lumaki sa bukid eh. Pero ngayon, miski winter, hindi ako mapakali kapag hindi nakabukas ang AC, miski mahina lang, basta nararamdaman ko yung matining na tunog ng makina ng AC eh kampante ako.

OHEMGEEE… what has become of meeeh??? Sa pagkabata pa lang, konting ihip lang ng hangin kapag bagong ulan eh nangingisay na ako sa lamig, minsan nga doble-doble pa ako kung magkumot. Ngayon, kapag hindi naka-18 degrees ang AC eh hindi ako makatulog.

Dedma kung magkanda-pulikat at mangatog ang mga buto-buto ko, pero nasanay na nga ako.

Hindi na rin ako naaliw sa panonood ng mga Pinoy TV shows ngayon. Pwera lang Mara Clara ha? Kasi may pagka-Gossip Girl yon eh. Pero sa totoo lang, nako-kornihan ako pag nanonood ako ng ASAP o ng Party Pilipinas. Parang bitin eh. Parang may kulang. O madalas hindi ako maka-relate. Parang out of place ako. Madalas ko ngang tinatanong ang sarili ko, bakit hindi ako kinikilig kina Aljur Abrenica at Kris Bernal? Bakit parang ambaduy ng Melason? Bakit ganun ang itsura at suot ni Tito Boy? Bakit ng laki ng face ni Charice?

Teka, teka, bago ako sugurin ng mga fans nila eh hindi naman po sa nanlalait ako. Well…slight lang. Pero kasi nga hindi ko ma-gets eh.

Hindi ko maintindihan, hindi ko masikmura. Sorry talaga. Maybe it’s not them, it’s meeeh! Pero hindi nga? Siguro nga nababawasan na ang pagka-Pinoy ko, sa panlasa at pag-arte. Ngayon kasi mas napifeel ko si Oprah, si Beyonce at si Paris Hilton eh. Siguro dahil mas madalas ko na silang napapanood. Kaya nasusubaybayan ko sila, kaya naiintindihan ko sila. Bakit ganon?

Dati-rati, kapag nakakarinig ako ng mga Pinoy na nagsasampalan sa kapal ng American o British accent eh hindi mapigilan ang pagtaas ng kilay ko hanggang langit. Bakeettt??? Eh mas sarat pa kay Mike Enriquez ang mga ilong nila ah, ampapandak at ang iitim naman ng mga batok at balat, how come they speak like Simon Cowell and dress like Sarah Jessica Parker? Ang fi-feeling! That’s how I used to see them. But now, I realize that I am one of them na. Well, not all, and slightly better. Weh? Kunsabagay, miski nga sa pangalan, ang tindi ng pagkukunwari nating mga Pinoy eh. Ang mga “Jose” nagiging “Joe”, “Maria” nagiging “Marie”, “Luisito” nagiging “Louie” o kaya “Louise”, “Urbano” nagiging “Urvee” or “Bunny”, “Felissa” nagiging “Felicity”. Ako nga “Daffodil Athena” naging “Annie” - anu yon?

FILIPINISMS 103

104 FILIPINISMS Which brings me to think, hindi na ba ako Pinoy sa pag-asal ko ng ganito? Nababawasan ba ang dugong maharlika ko sa tuwing manonood ako ng “America’s Next Top Model” at hindi ng “Pinoy Big Brother”?

Hindi naman siguro. Ako kasi sa puso ko Pinoy pa rin ako. Oo, tuwing mapupunta ako sa ibang bansa, ang una kong ginagawa lagi eh ikumpara ang bansa natin sa kanila. Madalas, puro pintas ang lumalabas sa bibig ko kasi nga naiinggit ako sa ganda at linis ng ibang bansa. Pero hindi ibig sabihin noon eh gusto ko nang i-renounce ang pagka-Pilipino ko at ipagpalit ang passport ko. Nalulungkot lang kasi ako dahil alam kong sa totoo lang eh hindi maipagkakailang napagiwanan na tayo ng ibang bansa. Nanghihinayang ako dahil tayong mga Pilipino, bukod sa magagaling, matatalino at masisipag eh hindi magkaisa upang matamo ang pag-asenso at tagumpay ng katulad ng sa ibang lahi. Nakakatuwang isipin na labis tayong biniyayaan ng Diyos sa yaman ng ating bansa at ganda ng ating lahi pero bakit hindi natin napalago ang mga biyayayang ito upang mapaganda at maitaguyod ang ating sariling lahi?

Siguro dapat nating balikan ang ating pagka-Pinoy. Hindi ba kaya tayo nag-ibang bansa ay para bigyang ginhawa at tulungan ang ating mga mahal sa buhay, kasama na ang itaguyod ating bansa at ipagmalaki ito sa ibang lahi? Tanungin nga natin ang mga sarili natin?

Ano ba talaga ang dahilan natin sa pangigibang bansa? Pansarili lang ba? O higit pa doon para sa ating bansa?

Oo, alam ko kung lahat ng bagay sa atin ay mabibigyan ng opportunity, hindi na tayo aalis pa at magsasakripisyo para lang sa ating mga mahal sa buhay. Isa ring dahilan sa iba dyan na nangingibang bansa ay gusto ring matututo kung paano ang buhay sa ibang lugar at kung papaano nila ito maituturo sa ating mga kababayan kapag sila ay nagbalik na sa ating bayan. Kung lahat ay maganda sa atin eh hindi tayo aalis di ba? Pero hindi naman sapat ang pag-alis natin para masolusyonan ang mga problema natin eh. Kumbaga, imbes na maging dedma tayo, gumawa tayo ng paraan upang mai-ahon ang ating bansa sa mga problema nito. Kaya mga kababayan, huwag po ninyong kalilimutan si Annie sa sussunod na eleksyon. Aaayyy… joke lang phow!!! =) Forgive me for sounding like a politician, but I’m telling you, seryoso ako sa mga sinasabi ko. Huwag tayong bumitiw sa ating pagiging Pinoy – let’s not forget who we are, where we come from and where we’re all going back to – as a Pinoy. Ika nga ni Gat Jose Rizal, “Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinagmulan ay isang TNT…” Nakalimutan ko na. Mabahong isda ba? I say mas higit pa sa echoserang palaka!!!

Ano nga ba ang isang Pinoy? Ang sinumang nagpapahalaga sa kanyang bayang sinilangan, sa mga taong nagmahal at nag-aruga sa kanya, sa lugar na nagbigay ng pagmamalasakit sa kanya bilang isang Pilipino at naghubog sa kanya upang maging isang tao na may takot sa Diyos, pagmamahal sa pamilya at kaibigan, at pagpapahalaga sa buhay ay ang mga qualities ng isang tunay na Pinoy.

Nasa puso yan, dear. Wala sa tatak ng bag, o sa Pantone number ng kulay ng buhok mo. Hindi porque nasa Pilipinas ka eh taos pusong Pinoy ka na. Paano mo masasabi yan kung isa ka sa mga patuloy na nagpapahirap sa bansa mo by being a tambay at panay ang babad mo sa Mailorderbride.com – mahiya ka sa balat mo Inday! Maliwanag pa sa sikat ng araw na mabigayan ka lang ng chance eh ipagpapalit mo ang dugo mo sa ibang lahi makakain ka lang ng Fish N Chips. Tse! Sabi nga sa Panatang Makabayan natin, nasa isip, sa salita at sa gawa yan, Teh! Bakit si Lea Salonga, miski may Laurence Olivier at Tony Awards na sya at may apartment sa Manhattan, tapos Inglisera pa siya, walang kurap pa rin nyang ipinagmamalaki sa mundo na Pilipino sya? Madami akong kilalang matagal nang naninirahan at

may negosyo na sa Amerika, sa UK, sa Italy pero paborito pa rin nila ang adobo, menudo at kumakain pa rin nang nakataas ang paa kapag nasa bahay lang sila. Mga may mga pagkakataon nang mag-palit ng lahi ngunit pilit pa ring sinasariwa ang pagka-Pinoy nila. Nakakatouch di ba?

Hindi naman kasi maiiwasan na ang Pinoy kapag nasa ibang lugar o bansa ay madaling mag-adapt. At yan lang naman ang nararapat.

Kapag ikaw ba nagpunta sa ibang lugar na lahat ng tao ay nag-IIngles, sa palagay mo nararapat ba na pilit kang mag-Tagalog? Eh pano ka nila maiintindihan di ba? Ano, ipipilit mong ikaw ang tama at aantayin mo na lang na sana isang araw matutunan din nila ang salita mo? Eh baliw ka kung ganon.

Syempre kapag nasa ibang lugar ka, makikibagay ka. Makikisama ka. Tanda ng respeto sa ibang kultura yon. Kung sa atin eh sweet at nakakatuwa ang sumitsit at magturo gamit ang ating nguso, eh sa ibang kultura eh weird yun, baka nga bastos pa. Eh ganun talaga nasa ibang lugar ka eh. You have to belong. Pero hindi ibig sabihin nito ay itatapon mo na ang magagandang nakaugalian mo bilang isang Pinoy. We must evolve. Dapat matuto tayong gumamit ng kutsara at tinidor, o kaya chopsticks, miski pa sa atin eh nasanay na nagkakamay lang tayo kapag kumakain. Matuto tayong magbihis ng disente at marangal kumporme sa pupuntahan nating lugar at huwag ipagpilitan ang shorts at tsinelas sa lahat ng patutunguhan.

Isa sa mga importanteng bagay kapag nasa ibang lugar ka ay iyong maintindihan mo at irespeto ang natutunan mo doon at maipamahagi mo sa iyong pinanggalingan ang kagandahang maibubunga nito.

Madami tayong matututunan sa ibang lahi kung tutuusin. Nasa sa iyo yan. Miski pa makipag-Beer Bong ka sa gitna ng Central Park sa New York basta’t feeling mo nakikitagay ka pa rin ng Gin Bilog sa Tindahan ni Aling Mercy sa kanto nyo, pasok na pasok pa rin ang pagka-Pinoy mo.

Dito ko napatunayan na wala sa balat, sa kulay ng buhok, sa accent, sa ganda ng kotse o sa paboritong kanta ang basehan ng pagiging isang tunay na Pinoy. Nasa puso ito mga kabayan. Hangga’t nananalaytay sa dugo natin ang pagmamahal natin sa ating sinilangang Pilipinas, ang pagkaulila natin sa mga mahal natin sa buhay, ang pag-crave natin sa hilaw na mangga at bagoong, balut, tukneneng, halo-halo at kinilaw, ang pagka-homesick natin sa mga pelikula ni Sharon Cuneta at mga kanta ng APO Hiking Society at birit ni Regine Velasquez… hindi maikakailang 100% Tunay na Pinoy ka pa rin, Kabayan!

So anong nagyari sa Chickenjoy ko? Eh di ubos! Wala yatang kinikilalang lahi ang sikmura ko pagdating sa paglafang. Tom Jones, Tommy Lee Jones o Tommy Abuel pa man. Dizzizit!!!