ILLUSTRADO Magazine Oct 2008

The Magazine for the International Filipino

15 October - 15 November 2008

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The Enterprising Filipino FILIPINO ENTREPRENEURSHIP: LEADS & CHALLENGES FRANCHISING THE DEBT TRAP FASHION: JET SET MANILA FAME INTERNATIONAL BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY ERASERHEADS REUNION ANNIE B. CHRONICLES

EDITOR’S NOTE

Shift into fifth gear We’ve been told through the years that we were not born to be entrepreneurs. In the Philippine setting, unless you have some Chinese blood in the family, you are led to believe that ours is a culture born to serve as employees and workers. But hard facts point to an alternative truth.

According to a study by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Research Consortium four out of 10 adult Filipinos are doing business; with our country ranking 2nd among the 42 surveyed countries with the most individuals owning a business.

Most of us would have seen proof of this in our small barrios back home. For me, ever since I could remember, my maternal grandmother always had a sari-sari store and a canteen in our community public school, while my paternal grandparents had the ‘king’ of all sari-saris in their neighborhood, as well as a popular panciteria in town. In that same small village alone, there was the botika, the panaderia where we would get our morning pan de sal, the several barbershops and home-based beauty parlors, the carinderias selling food for the day, and the odd puto and ice cream makers, as well as the rattan furniture supplier. There would be vegetable sellers, the Batanguena with her kulambos and blankets and the alahera with her 10K gold jewelry pieces, plying their trade door-to-door, while a caravan loaded with native goods would pass through our barrio once in a blue moon. These are but some among the so many other traces of Pinoy enterprise I’ve seen while growing up.

Though inspite of the obvious signs of industriousness all around, the curious thing is that, even today, amongst the few discernible signs of progress I see whenever I visit my hometown, a lot of those old businesses (those that survived) still remain pretty much the same ‘mom and pop’ operation through the years, failing to expand and evolve with the times. True enough, this is not unique to my own neighborhood but is a phenomenon across the country – a fact according to the Department of Trade’s (DTI) records which confirm that 99.6% of registered Philippine businesses are Small Medium Enterprise (SMEs).

So while it may be true that we have the entrepreneurial gene in us, very few among us have been able to build sizeable ventures, perhaps largely to our own limited mindset adamant to move vertically, horizontally and laterally. A lot of us always like the secured feeling of staying in our comfort zone and are

intimidated by progress. In contrast, there are these prominent Filipinos, who have shown us that empires can, indeed, be built, as well as brilliant young Pinoy blood, who have ridden on new technology and progressive industries demonstrating that business success is never solely dependent on hardwork and the size of one’s capital.

John Gokongwei, a man who sold soap, candles and thread in the palengke at the age of 15 years old for his family’s survival, and eventually ended up as one of the most influential businessmen in the country with interests in the beverages, food, airline, telecoms and real estate businesses, among others, in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia, said in one of his famous speeches: “Through the years, the market place has expanded: between cities, between countries, between continents. I want to urge you all to think bigger. Why serve 86 million when you can sell to four billion Asians? And that’s just to start you off - because there is still the world beyond Asia. Think of ways to sell and market your products and services to the world. Create worldclass brands.

You can if you really tried. I did. As a boy, I sold peanuts from my backyard. Today, I sell snacks to the world.”

Indeed, while it is the desire to survive, hardwork, persistence and frugality which can set you off to a good start in business, it is the audacity to dream, the courage to go out of the box, the openness to evolve with the times, the resolve to pursue opportunities aggressively and the imagination to provide creative solutions that can turn you into a major player in the world of business.

We need to put a much needed spin to that old Filipino saying, because – “Kung puro ka lang tiyaga, maliit lang ang iyong nilaga.”

It’s time to kick-up your business into fifth gear.

TAAS NOO, Filipino!

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Send your letters to: editor@illustrado.net

In short, most of these applicants are not comfortable to be dressed in proper business attire, during the interview – “dahil mainit daw!”

I’ve been informing applicants not to take for granted their career opportunity when appearing for an interview - even if the interviewer is a Filipino. I don’t understand why some of us have this attitude – we take it so easy when it comes to our own kababayans. For one, you’ll never know if that Filipino interviewer is one of the key managers in the company in-charge of hiring people. And in reality it doesn’t even matter what the interviewer’s position is – the bottomline is that the interview will reflect in your job application with the company. So it’s really the applicant’s loss if he or she didn’t bother to make the right professional impression.

very promising location – near to businesses and schools in Manila. We did not expect that it will be very affordable (in fact our monthly payments are less than the installment for a car). Most importantly, this has given us hope on setting up a condo rental business that we can look forward to – it’s only one condo, but who knows?

You see we’ve been here in the Gulf for almost 12 years now (five years in Qatar and seven in the UAE), but never had the chance to buy a home for ourselves, let alone save a huge amount of money from our salaries (you know how it is with us Pinoys). We are lucky compared to others because we have the family home to fall back on, unlike our other kabayans. However, since our eldest will be going back home, with my wife, to attend university within the next three years, we have been worrying Then again, there are those applicants, about the loss of income (my wife is also working especially those who are ‘first timers’ searching full time) and what will be our options in Manila. for overseas jobs, who are asking for ridiculously high salaries without even showing or proving Luckily, we stumbled onto this investment their value, especially at the initial stage of their possibility. I don’t think it will solve all of our job application. I think a lot of our kababayans money needs, but at least it’s a good start for us to have a serious problem here – it’s either we prepare for the future.

Dear Editor, are too humble that we cannot ask for what It’s always a pleasure reading your magazine. we deserve, or we are over confident, maybe Thanks, Illustrado. May you continue to publish Every issue is worth waiting for. I just finished clueless, that we take a lot of simple things for useful and informative stories in your magazine. reading your 2nd anniversary issue. I loved granted.

Fashion Honor Roll featuring the Filipinofashion designers here in UAE and back home. It’s also With your articles in the Successful Pinoy Carlos Alejandro, Sharjah great to know that we also have successful column – tips and career uplifment – I hope a designers in other countries like Jasper Garvida lot of Filipinos will get the advise and direction …………………….. and Zaldy Goco. that they need, including how to carry and sell Hi Illustrado! themselves professionally globally.

I have a friend who’s been a fan of Illustrado particularly your fashion pages, whose aspiration Thank for such a wholesome magazine that “Alaala ng tayo’y mag-sweetheart pa …” is to be a designer someday, despite the fact that features such valuable information. his career in a decent private company here in You really made me smile when I saw that famous the emirates is doing well. He was inspired by Please continue serving the Filipinos!

Rico J line in your Manila article. It’s so nostalgic your magazine to pursue his dream and wants Cory Arsenio, Abu Dhabi – bigla kong naalala yung bell bottoms ko noon at to share his design in the near future if given pa-afro hair. But I’m not yet that old – promise! the chance. …………………….

Merce dela Fuente And of course the always much-awaited Annie I am a true blue Imelda Marcos fan – I am B Chronicles - you can say that without reading neither afraid nor embarrassed to say that. I ………………….

Annie B’s funny story of the month, you’ve never know the Philippines had a lot of issues with really read Illustrado. It gives such a great relief the Marcos clan and some of the wounds are Hirap talagang magpaka-bayani… to our stressful life here in the emirates. still fresh, of course, there are these questions about her sanity and all that talk about love Ang galing ni Annie B sa Bagong Bay-Annie! Parang Keep up the good work Illustrado Team! and the universe, but I don’t think anybody can bigla kong nakini-kinita yung sarili ko na nagpapakahirap May Jimenez, Dubai equal Madame when it comes to her larger- magtrabaho (at rumaraket!) para lang maibigay sa mga than-life personality. She’s a unique icon with mahal ko sa buhay ang kanilang pangangailangan. It’s ……………………. an irresistibly magnetic persona who elicits so true, and Annie B is so fine! Dahil kahit na nahihirapan awe wherever she flutters - you will know what siya, masaya pa rin ang storya. Sana ganyan din Congratulations on your 2nd Anniversary I mean if you ever get the chance to see ‘her ang attitude nating nagpapakahirap dito. It’s a good Illustrado! Mabuhay kayo! regalness’ in her haunts in Makati. Everybody reminder that we can laugh about our troubles. Wag turns when she walks into a room. She’s like a nating seryosohin and hardships natin. Kaya natin itu!

It’s another inspiring issue once again. flame surrounded by moths who can’t help but gravitate towards her brilliant aura. I’m one of Go-go, Annie B! I would like to comment on your Successful those moths ☺ Leila Ismail, Dubai Pinoy article ‘Itsura Ko, Tagumpay Ko!’ which I agree to 100 %. As I have observed in my job So thank you for featuring the one and only …………………… as an HR staff, the young generation today is Imeldific in your recent smashing issue - such an not so aware about how they should be properly interesting subject worth all those nice pages!

Two thumbs up to Annie B! dressed especially when they are applying for a job. We know that for the past few months, the Stay FAB! Illustrado you always give us a good laugh with weather has been hot and humid but it doesn’t JD Estrella, Dubai your Annie B column. It’s great how you can come mean that you should be in a mall outfit when you up with such kabayan stories and turn them into have committed yourself to an interview with the …………………….. comedy. Even my serious friends can’t help but manager. Some applicants wear jeans, scruffy read your Filipinism column. It’s a great tribute to sandals that almost look like ‘tsinelas’, and some Thank you for keeping us informed on really our natural ‘funny bone’. even wear spaghetti strap tops (of course they useful issues, Illustrado. My wife and I recently felt ‘freezing’ during the interview). Some of the attended the Philippine Property Show after Keep up the fun! guys I’ve seen wore sneakers, tucked out shirts, reading your article on real estate (September which looked like they were too lazy to iron it, issue). We were very pleased at what we saw and even worst, some wore t-shirts. there and ended up buying a small condo at a Che-Che Oliver, Manama

CONTRIBUTORS

JR Bustamante JR has quite a resume that includes practically every profession in the communications industry.

She’s split her time copywriting for TV, print and radio, working on marketing communications collaterals and PR campaigns, whipping up AVPs, newsletters and press releases and even a little bit of events management. She had no idea her early experience as a university newspaper editor would lead to her becoming a serious feature writer for magazines and newspapers.

During her non-writing days, JR dabbles in photography, watercolor painting and designing for fashion, accessories and interiors. For this issue, JR captures smart money management tips from financial guru Francisco Colayco in our Kabuhayan section.

KC Abalos Contributor KC leads a colorful life — almost as colorful as her taste in shoes. She goes from being a philosophy professor to being the editor of an online poker magazine, showing how her interests are eccentrically varied. But it’s in her writing where she finds the freedom and the means to reveal to the world who she truly is: a secret agent for a top spy organization posing as a professional belly dancer. This month, KC shares her experience as a diehard Eraserheads fan attending the band’s long-awaited reunion concert.

Bernadette Reyes TV News Reporter-slash-Illustrado Contributor Bernadette never gets tired of chasing bad guys while on the beat — when all of us are sleeping in the comfort of our beds. But it’s not all superhero work for our petite but fearless writer. Bernadette is also an active contributor in various business publications, and was a former business reporter for Today Independent News where she was tasked to cover the Philippine Stock Exchange and the Securities and Exchange Commission. In the little free time she has left to herself, she indulges in her true loves — books and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf frappes. Bernadette shares with Illustrado readers the ins and outs of franchising and entrepreneurship in this month’s business feature.

Gabbie dela Rama-Talan Gabbie dela Rama-Talan is a little bit crazy. If she wasn’t when she agreed to hold on to five separate editorial positions at the same time — then those five jobs must’ve done the job. She’s settled down a little now, letting go of most and leaving only a pair of jobs (Editor-in-Chief of In-Print and Associate Editor of Homestyle). With her rediscovering of the concept of free time, she has taken to pursuing some of the more important things in life: watching vintage anime, stuffing her face with brie and adjusting to married life.

Mac Antonio Seasoned photographer and former AdPhoto Philippines hotshot Mac Antonio has an excellent command of varying photography fields — from commercial to fashion to food. A consummate artist, Mac works as a Junior Art Director for the Gulf’s leading multinational advertising agency. He has been lauded as the Digital Artist of the Year four times by the International Design Network (IDN) Club, Philippines.

Vic Sollorano Business Mirror Senior Editor Victor Sollorano has lived in many interesting places like Thailand, where he did fine art photography, and in Europe where he practiced writing, editing and photography for local and international organizations. Prior to that, he had worked as Philippine correspondent of the now-defunct Knight-Ridder Financial News and AP-Dow Jones News Service. He has held exhibitions for his photography both in the Philippines and in Thailand and was selected as the Director’s Choice for the Ayala Museum ArtistSpace in 2007.

Vic takes on the story of the Pinoy entrepreneurs behind the bedtime drug, Sleepasil.

Publisher & Editor-in Chief Lalaine Chu-Benitez Assistant Editor Mikkel Bolante Art Directors Paula Lorenzo Ron Perez Contributing Writers Philippines & U.S. Carlito Viriña Bernadette Reyes David Poarch Aby Yap Ivan Henares Gabbie dela Rama-Talan Chayie Maligalig Apple Lopez Karen Galarpe Vic Lactaoen Victor Sollorano Lorraine Balita KC Abalos JR Bustamante Excel Dyquianco Jude Cartalaba Isabelo Samonte United Arab Emirates Maripaz Febrero Giselle Estrada Dawn Almario Sonny de Guzman Antonella Andrada Shar Matingka Jonie Jose Michael Vincent Serrano Contributing Photographers Philippines Marlon Pecjo Charles Lu United Arab Emirates Pot Ph Illuminado Ong Kris Lee Mariyah Gaspacho Contributing Stylist Zekundo Chu Janet dela Fuente Publisher Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2nd Floor, Building 2 P.O. Box 72280 Office 20C Dubai Media City, U.A.E. Tel: + 9714 365 4547 Fax: + 9714 360 4771 email: admin@illustrado.net Website: illustrado.net Printers Delta Printing Press L.L.C. P.O. Box 37140 Dubai, U.A.E. Copyright Illustrado Communications 2008.

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission of Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC

October 08 CONTENTS Features Filipino Entrepreneurship: Leads & Challenges 8 Sleepasil 10 The Fight for Respect 14

Columns Editor’s Note 1 Letters to the Editor 4 Contributors 6 Famous Filipinos 18 Kabuhayan: Franchising 20 Kabuhayan: Franchising Opportunities 22 Kabuhayan: The Debt Trap 24 Successful Pinoy: From Here, To There 28 Successful Pinoy: Learn like a Sponge 30 Community 60 Coconuter: Back to Modern Civilization 32 Hilig Pinoy: Ultimate Frisbee 54 Usapang Kanto 67 Onli in da Pilipins 68 The Annie B. Chronicles 70 Filipinisms: Pinoycronyms 73

Fashion, Arts & Design

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Gorgeous Charmagne de Guzman returns to Illustrado’s fashion pages in this month’s spectacular feature ‘Jet Set’.

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Jet Set 34 Illustrado Runway: Lulu Tan Gan 46 Fashion Round Up 48 Manila FAME International 50 Ambassador for Ballet 52

Places Pinoy Planet: Bringing Hope to Malawi 56 Bonifacio Global City 64

Entertainment Eraserheads Reunion 75 Hot Releases 77

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8 FEATURE

Filipino Entrepreneurship:

Leads & Challenges

By Bernadette Reyes

PerhaPs it’s the desire to live a life full of comfort — a nice sPacious house, a couPle of cars, some extra cash on hand for some of life’s luxuries. maybe it’s the lack of oPPortunities for some really good Paying jobs. or it could simPly be that lingering dream of building another business emPire like that of john gokongwei’s, henry sy’s or lucio tan’s. in any case, desPite PoPular belief to the contrary, statistics show that millions of filiPinos are actually trying their hands on entrePreneurshiP. In fact, it was found out that four out of 10 adult Filipinos between the age of 18 and 64 are involved in some form of business.

This means that approximately 19 million of the entire Philippine population owns a business — big or small — according to a study conducted by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Research Consortium.

GEM is the largest single study and source of empirical data on the entrepreneurial activities of nations. An annual research study, GEM measures, compares and contrasts the entrepreneurial potential of 42 participating countries including the Philippines which participated for the first time in the 2006 study.

The fact that there are low barriers to entry in most types of businesses encourages entrepreneurs in the country to start a venture more so than in middle income countries and in our Asian neighbors.

According to the GEM study, the Philippines ranks second among countries with most individuals owning a business.

While the Philippines is becoming a breeding ground for entrepreneurs, most of the businesses in the country today are small in both scale and scope. According to the Department of Trade and Industry

(DTI) about 99.6 percent of all registered businesses in the country are considered small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Nevertheless, the government considers SMEs as the backbone of the Philippine economy. This sector is responsible for the employment of about 70 percent or approximately two-thirds of the labor force and contributes 32 percent of the country’s output.

The government is trying to create an environment that would encourage business owners to expand its business. For every 10 businesses in the Philippines only two are involved in export activities which could mean that Filipinos are generally “inward looking.” While export activities remain at low levels, the government takes consolation in the fact that only 8 percent of Filipino business owners have discontinued business in the past 12 months at the time the study was conducted. These are usually business owners who were not able to rise above the challenges that go with the early stages of the business life cycle.

Businesses in the country today that have survived the critical phase of the business cycle are mostly consumer-oriented, or in simpler terms, those businesses which cater

to the primary needs of the people. These include retail establishments, restaurants and bars, lodging, health, education, social services and recreation. A quarter of Filipino business owners on the other hand are involved in businesses related to agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining; a fifth are engaged in transformative businesses such as construction, manufacturing, transportation and wholesale distribution and only three percent of the total business in the country are engaged in business services or those entities whose primary customer is another business. The government is actively providing assistance to thousands of entrepreneurs nationwide in their hope to take their businesses to a higher level.

The low involvement of Filipino entrepreneurs on business services may be explained by the limitations in technology.

The GEM report found out that four out of 10 business owners use old technology and processes in their businesses. In fact, a quarter of Filipino entrepreneurs are not even aware if the technology or processe they are using are new or not. The same report suggested the need to increase technology literacy to attain greater efficiency, better quality and productivity especially in the business services sector.

FEATURE 9

The biggest obstacle however among Filipino entrepreneurs that hinder growth is their lack of ability to differentiate their products and services from one another.

Philippine business owners are faced with such high competition that only five percent of Filipino entrepreneurs are considered competitive according to the GEM report.

Among the countries included in the study, India and Thailand demonstrated the highest ability among its entrepreneurs to introduce new products and services in the market which translates to greater market efficiency.

Despite these hurdles, Filipinos remain bullish in their outlook and attitude towards entrepreneurship in the country. The GEM report said eight out of 10 Filipinos are contemplating to become entrepreneurs and see this profession as a desirable career choice. Of this number, more than half are seriously looking at the prospect of putting up a business in the next three years. Even individuals with relatively low educational attainment have the propensity to become established business owners. The GEM report found out that the majority of established business owners in the Philippines have not gone to college while more than half of those who recently opened new businesses or have taken actions to put up a business in the past year only reached high school.

In spite of the bullish outlook and optimistic attitude of Filipinos, the lack of proper motivation to become entrepreneurs might get in the way of developing entrepreneurship among the people. One out of every two entrepreneurs in the country was found out to put up a business not by choice but because of necessity. Only a third of Filipino business owners are motivated to create a business to achieve greater independence.

However, the government can counter this frame of mind by strengthening entrepreneurship education among Filipinos. The report revealed that an individual’s degree of education may affect one’s motivation to become an entrepreneur.

Entrepreneurs who have graduated from college are mostly driven by opportunity while those who only finished high school are most likely to be motivated by necessity.

Government Financial Institutions (GFIs) like the Landbank are helping spawn entrepreneurs by extending financial assistance through the SME Unified Lending Opportunities for National Growth (SULONG). Sulong is a program which standardizes lending procedures for SMEs allowing business owners to enjoy easy and simplified borrowing.

About 9,000 SMEs have already benefited from the PHP7.4 billion loan released in 2003 and the government said there is more to come.

Concerted efforts from the government and public institutions are instruments that could help in further equipping our entrepreneurs towards greater efficiency and chances to succeed.

However, the making of another Filipino business tycoon not only rests

The National SME Development Agenda, a priority program of the government is already in place to address these concerns.

Under this program, existing and potential entrepreneurs are cultivated by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful business owners. Small enterprises are also expected to experience growth marked by a significant increase in productivity.

on business fundamentals, but also on relentless motivation, the savvy to address larger opportunities and utilize new technology to build on what is already an innate skill. The spirit of entrepreneurship is, contrary to popular belief, alive and well in Filipinos – now it’s time to take that to the next level.

10 FEATURE

Sleepasil: That hazy connection between sleep and financial success

By Victor Sollorano

The connecTion beTween sleep and financial success may be hazy To some buT ThaT is exacTly whaT Two filipino enTrepreneurs successfully esTablished: They liTerally puT people To sleep and, in doing so, became millionaires in Their own righT. Jonas Gonzales graduated in BS Industrial Engineering from the University of the Philippines Diliman campus in March 2003.

His partner, Jose Vergel Reyes, graduated in BS Management from the Ateneo de Manila University in March 2002.

Yes, that’s how young these entrepreneurs are. Mark my words though, Gonzales and Reyes will go down the annals of Philippine business as one of most successful partners and entrepreneurs that ever lived on the islands; and they’re not even Chinese — a compliment to the Chinese genius that have dominated Philippine business since the last half of the 20th Century.

What makes them great is that they saw an opportunity, took the helm and turned it into a profitable venture. Where others shrugged their shoulders upon seeing

stressed out, overworked, sleepless call center agents Reyes and Gonzales saw a cow and milked it well. In other words, they made the connection between an observedphenomenon and wealth.

Back in 2005, Reyes and Gonzales were reeling from the act of gaining experience after school. That was when they decided to form Organica Neutraceuticals Inc. to distribute their own sleep aid capsule — now popularly known as Sleepasil.

“We saw an opportunity in the growing call center industry. It was common knowledge that people who worked the night shift had work-related sleeping problems. We felt that there was a lot of potential for a product that could help in improving the quality of sleep of those workers,” says Gonzales who, after graduation, was hired by Schlumberger

and worked for 10 months as an oilfield engineer (he was assigned to sites in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Egypt and Indonesia).

“The preliminary market research that we conducted confirmed our initial hunch. It was then that we decided to get into this business [of] marketing and distribution of Sleepasil,” he adds.

They asked California-based BOSCOGEN Inc. to develop and manufacture a formula that consists of natural ingredients like Melatonin, Chamomile and Valerian root, Hops, Passion flower, Skullcap, Wild Jujube seed extract, as well as Calcium carbonate and Magnesium oxide. Think of ancient medicine — the Apothecary in William Shakespeare’s not-so ancient time dishing out such a concoction to calm the sleepless ones in the throes of imaginative creativity.

Photos by Victor Sollorano

FEATURE 11

“We particularly entered the sleep aid category since we spotted that it had, at that time, no dominant brand yet. Because Organica was a small start-up with very limited financial resources, we deemed it best not to go into a category dominated by a very strong brand,” Reyes says of the sprouting of one of the Philippines’ most successful small and medium enterprises he and his partner brought to fruition.

Competing with a very strong brand would be really hard aside from being too costly,” Reyes adds.

There is also that non-selfish reason — nonfinancial if you will — that in the words of Reyes, “would help meet the sleeping problems of the call center workers.”

That was in 2005. It took Organica more than a year later to actually distribute their product to such outlets as Mercury Drug and other pharmacies in the Philippines, because Sleepasil had to undergo a series of test by the Bureau of Food and Drugs, or BFAD, the agency that gives the thumbs up, or down, when it comes to such matters as a dietary supplement.

It was worth the wait, because 14 months later Organica Neutraceuticals sold more than 750,000 Sleepasil capsules at PHP12 a capsule to mostly call center agents. Do the math and you’ll know by this time around that that hazy connection between sleep and financial success is quite lucid.

However, Reyes says, “I wouldn’t say that the financial results we had after a year of operations [were] fantastic. It was, for me, just good. We [were] projecting that we’d get our ROI [return on investments] on the 21st month of operations.”

For Gonzales, “Business is doing well right now, but there’s still a lot of room for growth for Sleepasil — our first brand — and Organica Nutraceuticals Inc. Our goals as a company have not changed a lot. The great thing is that we’re on track — or maybe a bit ahead of schedule — to achieving those goals.”

Despite that performance others would definitely term great for a company that started from scratch and ran by practically

boys in their mid-20s, Gonzales would say, “I wouldn’t exactly call it ‘fantastic,’ but I would say that our financial results have been really good. We surpassed our annual sales target by more than 50 percent.”

Initial success aside, the Sleepasil boys aren’t through with the world of entrepreneurship, Organica Neutraceuticals and Sleepasil. They are now going for the next logical step, something bigger and better.

“Personally, I want Organica Nutraceuticals to at least be a [company] with P150 million [in annual revenue] in five years’ time, says Gonzales. Reyes definitely shares with his business partner this passion for big dreams, the big time and success. “I still aspire for Organica Nutraceuticals to be one of the top ten players in the nutraceuticals business.

Hopefully, we can achieve this in ten years.”

“The thing is, Sleepasil targets a niche

12 FEATURE

market and the revenue that can be generated from these markets is not really big. So in order to grow, we need to launch new products and get into relatively bigger markets. I’m envisioning our company to launch at least two more products in the next 5 years.” That’s Gonzales who knows and understands the concept of limits without being stumped by that knowledge.

He teaches Strategic Management and Technology Entrepreneurship to graduating students at the UP Diliman College of Industrial Engineering. He knows to a large extent what lies beyond the limits of current thinking. He has looked into the results of Filipino companies as that of Splash Corp., a billion-peso concern that started out as a family business in cosmetics and beauty products and whose shares of stocks are now traded on the Philippine Stock Exchange. Splash, says Gonzales, achieved a tremendous amount of growth within a short span of time. “They were able to do this by getting into categories that the big multinationals wouldn’t get into — markets that are too small for the P&G’s and Unilever’s of the world, but large enough for mid-sized businesses.”

A product of the academe, compared to the giants of Philippine retail trading, like Henry Sy Sr. and John Gokongwei Jr., who

are products of the School of Hardknocks, Reyes and Gonzales have a thing or two to say for those who aspire to go into business.

“Don’t be afraid to fail so you can take risks,” says Reyes. He adds that “Success in business is never guaranteed. In fact, if you would take a look at the statistics, majority of the business start-ups fold in the first two years, and with those left, only a couple would still be operating after five years. But if you let yourself be cowed by the tremendous odds stacked [up] against you, you will never start that dream business [for fear of] failure.”

He goes on to qualify that being courageous does not mean “jumping into things with eyes closed and throwing all caution into the wind.” Instead he explains that courage “entails doing your homework well,” as in “preparing a very good business plan — so you can navigate your way through — and being prudent with your initial business decisions.”

Two basic principles are a must for Gonzales in his approach to business. First is not to make crucial decisions with your heart. He says, “Use your heart and mind in equal measure,” and to understand your market and your customers well through research.

The second Gonzales principle goes like

this: hard work, though crucial, is no longer the main factor in order to succeed in business. Because? “’Working smart’ is even more important.”

Gonzales expounds on this principle by saying that most, if not all, of the Chinese taipans consider hard work as a vital ingredient to their success. “The process for wealth creation today is very different from how it was 40 years, or even 10 years, ago.”

He goes on to site the founder of search engine Google, Sergei Brin. “His personal wealth far exceeds the wealth of Sy, Lucio Tan, Gokongwei, and the Ayala family combined. Even more remarkable is that it took Brin less than 10 years to accomplish that feat.”

Especially in fields where there is intense competition in terms of many players and competing products in the market, Gonzales says hard work won’t cut it anymore. “You have to work smart.”

It is almost certain that many call center agents at any given time in any given day are sound asleep — despite the stress brought about by dealing with stressed out clients during their shift — because of Sleepasil. As they emit their zzzzzzzzs, Gonzales and Reyes are reaping the benefits of their dreams. Now that’s what you call smart thinking.

14 FEATURE

The Fight for

Respect

Sports are a tricky matter. For the most part, some nationalities are really better equipped for athletics than others. With a race like ours (who are commonly smaller than many of our foreign counterparts), it’s difficult not to have a marked disadvantage when it comes to many of the major sports. They are bigger, taller, longer and more athletic. No matter how skilled one is in their chosen sport, one is usually pitted against superiorly-built foes. Basketball, football, baseball, track and field, swimming — the story is often the same.

By Mikkel Bolante

His actions sHould Have erased any bit of doubt on everybody’s minds. it was clear during tHat barrage of puncHes during tHe 11tH round of tHe 2003 figHt tHat Had marco antonio barrera’s corner tHrowing in tHe towel. it was evident in tHe crusHing left tHat sent erik morales Hard to tHe canvas and visibly retHinking His career patH in 2006. tHere sHould Have been no question if you saw mexican figHter after mexican figHter, legend after legend, fall under tHe weigHt of His fists. sports officials Have always wondered wHat sport filipinos can compete in a world-class level. tHere’s no point in looking any furtHer. manny pacquiao Has tHe answer and He’s not afraid to sHow tHe world over and over. filipinos were born to figHt. The sport of boxing — the so-called “sweet science” — is one that Filipinos have traditionally thrived in. Even back in the day, Pinoy fighters have created worldwide buzz. From Ceferino Garcia and his popular ‘Bolo Punch’ to Gabriel ‘Flash’ Elorde and his revolutionary footwork, again and again, we have knocked the idea into the rest of the world that the Philippines is indeed a force to be reckoned with in the arena of boxing.

We’ve had some shining moments in our sporting history. The Bronze in the World Basketball Championships in 1954. Eugene Torre becoming Asia’s very first chess Grandmaster in the 70s. The four World Championships won by Paeng Nepomuceno in bowling. The countless others in the sport of pool by the likes of Efren Reyes, Francisco

Bustamante, Alex Pagulayan and Ronnie Alcano. But our greatest victories — a pair of silver medals in the Olympics, a number of world titles by several different fighters in the professional circuit — all come from boxing. Respected sports network ESPN recognizes our achievements in the sport, publishing a feature on their website that showcased the five finest boxers to come out of the Philippines (the list includes former titleholders Erbito Salavarria, Gerry Penalosa, Garcia, Pancho Villa and Elorde).

The sports affiliate of Yahoo! proclaims Pacquaio as the best pound-for-pound (not taking weight classes into account) fighter in the entire world. Other Filipinos have won world championships from Luisito Espinosa to Nonito Donaire. It’s undeniable - we have some of the best boxers in the world.

Not so in boxing. In this dangerous sport where safety and survival is a concern, officials are more careful in regulating mismatches in size. This is a great boon for nationalities that are naturally disadvantaged like the Mexicans, who have dominated the lower weight classes for many years, and now, us Filipinos.

In fact, boxing is not the only arena Filipinos are quickly rising in. Mixed martial art is a similar sport that a few Pinoys have begun to establish some very good reputations in. MMA is a fairly new sport that features a combination of striking (punches, kicks, elbows and knees), wrestling and submissions (chokes, locks). To the casual observer, MMA (and its premier organization, the UFC) seems to be a noholds-barred brawl. In truth, it’s a blend of several disciplines that come together in an exciting competitive fight.

Manny the ‘Pac Man’ Pacquiao

FEATURE 15

Filipino Brandon ‘the Truth’ Vera is an MMA fighter that competes in the UFC. He was a fight away from a shot at the UFC Heavyweight championship when he was derailed by a series of unfortunate mishaps including contract disputes, a split with his manager and a controversial loss in a fight that might have been stopped by the referee too soon. He has since moved to the even more competitive light-heavyweight division where he is expected to join the top of the rankings very soon. Mark Munoz, another Filipino fighter in the UFC sister company WEC, is also making a strong case for himself in his fight league.

Both Vera and Munoz wear their Filipino pride on their sleeves. Vera is well-known for the tattoos on his back that chronicle the four elements fire, wind, water and earth written in the traditional Filipino baybayin symbols. Munoz has adopted his nationality in his nickname — ‘the Filipino Wrecking Machine.’

More than the regulated weight classes, Pinoys are successful in fighting for more reasons. Martial arts have been a strong part of our culture, like Kali, Escrima and Arnis. These were used not just for sport but also for survival in our past. And as Vera said once in a TV interview he had no doubt that there will continue to be Pinoys in the fight scene as long as there will be the perfect weight class and because “alam mo naman ang Pinoy, mainit ang dugo.”

Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach was quoted as saying that he thought that the only handicap that Filipinos had, compared to their Mexican counterparts was the lack of training. The traditionally dominant Mexicans had the good fortune of being close to America, and were able to merely cross the border to experience of some of the best training and best facilities. Filipinos were not able to have the same access. With the same kind of training though (which Roach attempts to provide as he brings more Filipinos over to his Wild Card Gym in LA), we can expect more Filipinos to dominate the boxing scene for years to come.

Meanwhile, Manny Pacquiao prepares for the biggest fight of his life. I mean that literally as well as figuratively, as he bulks up to fight at 147 lbs for the first time of his career. His match with the retiring Mexican-American legend Oscar ‘Golden Boy’ de la Hoya will

pit him against the biggest opponent of his career, as de la Hoya is actually slimming down to 147 for the first time in years.

It’s a lucrative fight, and one that the whole world will probably be watching. It’s a risky fight for Pacquiao, too, as the large discrepancy in size might be too much for him to overcome. Some boxing experts have called this fight a circus, due to de la Hoya being much bigger, but none of that matters to Pacquiao.

He has always been thinking of one thing: glory. For one night, he will fight in a contest that will put himself and his country under

the world’s eyes. This was a fight he never imagined — stepping into the ring with his boyhood idol. But for that one night, Manny Pacquiao will remind us all of the glory he brought the country every boxing legend he took down. He will remind us all of the pride we all feel whenever he steps into the four-cornered ring. He will remind us all that Filipinos can be the best in the world at something.

And whether or not he wins or loses, he’s proven it over and over and over.

Filipinos need not look far to see what sport we can be successful in. Just turn on your TV and see for yourself.

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18 FAMOUS FILIPINOS

Filipinos may not be well-known around the globe For their business acumen, but it’s not because oF the lack oF it, rather a lack oF people knowing about it. so we’ve put together quite a list oF sharp, savvy men and women who have run successFul business From right under the world’s noses. this month, we bring to light a Few who have shown that the Filipino indeed has what it takes to be competitive in international business.

Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala II Harvard Business School Awardee The Ayala Corporation CEO was lauded by the Harvard Business School with the highest honor for their alumni. He was awarded the honor for “excellence, integrity, and leadership in business and society.” Zobel joins fellow graduates and former recipients of the award like former US Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara and president and CEO of Starbucks Coffee Orin C. Smith. He is the youngest to receive the award as well as the first Filipino. He is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Globe Telecom, Inc, Bank of the Philippine Islands and Integrated Microelectronics, Inc.

H Rostum Internet Entrepreneur Rostum is a savvy businessman who makes an average of US$16,000 a month — that’s more than PHP500,000 — over the internet through the domaining industry. He buys and registers unused domain names online and sells at a higher price. His biggest sale was the domain name friendsterlayouts.com, which he sold off for a whopping US$20,000. He is said to have received an offer of US$1,000,000 for his domain portfolio; an offer he declined because he wanted to pass on his domains to his family in the future.

Lawrence Cortez and Romel Rivera Winemakers in Napa Valley Cortez and Rivera are two Filipinos who began their careers in the wine industry as farmhands. Working diligently through the years, they have now become award-winning winemakers of the Corte Riva label. Described as “the rising stars in the world of winemaking” by authoritative magazine Wine Spectator, their first batch of red wines was named “Top Red of the Year” in 2003 by Hi-Time Wine Cellars.

Their bottles are available only at upscale establishments in the USA.

FAMOUS FILIPINOS 19

Loida Nicolas Lewis CEO of TLC Beatrice International Holdings, Inc Lewis is the chairman and CEO of the multinational food company TLC Beatrice International Holdings, Inc. She was born of a family of entrepreneurs and graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Law. She was the first Asian woman to successfully take the New York City bar exam without studying law in the US. In 1995, she assumed leadership of the company a year after her husband, Reginald F Lewis, passed away. Beatrice International was acquired by her husband in 1987 and was the largest AfricanAmerican company in the US. In 2000, she was able to sell the last unit of the company for which she and her investors were able to gain a 35% return on their investment. She was hailed by Working Woman magazine as one of the top businesswomen in the US. In 2007, she was inducted into the Asian Hall of Fame, an exhibit

Cecil FloresOebanda

at the Asia Resource Center located in the international district of Seattle and honors Asian-American achievers.

Skoll Foundation Social Entrepreneur Flores-Oebanda was one of few Asians to be recognized by the Skoll Foundation — an organization founded by former eBay president Jeff Skoll — as a “social entrepreneur; an individual who aims for value in the form of transformational change that will benefit disadvantaged communities and ultimately society at large.” She joins the ranks of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, who offered microloans to impoverished people in Bangladesh and John Wood, the author of the book ‘Leaving Microsoft to Change the World.’ Flores Oebanda was cited for her work in the Visayan Forum Foundation an NGO that promoted the protection and welfare of marginalized migrants like domestic workers, trafficked women and abused children.

20 KABUHAYAN

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Money, Assets and Investing

Franchising

Cashing in on Successful Business Models

By Bernadette Reyes

DESPITE THE PHILIPPINES’ SLUGGISH ECONOMIC GROWTH THIS YEAR CHARACTERIZED BY SWELLING INFLATION, HIGH FUEL PRICES AND WEAKENING OF THE PESO AGAINST THE GREENBACK, CERTAIN SECTORS ARE SEEN TO WEATHER TOUGH TIMES, THE FRANCHISING INDUSTRY INCLUDING. WITH THE BUYING POWER THAT GOES WITH THE FAST-GROWING PHILIPPINE POPULATION, NOW OVER 92 MILLION, COMPLEMENTING THE TRIED-AND-TESTED BRAND AND BUSINESS MODEL OF ANY FRANCHISE BUSINESS, THE POTENTIAL TO SUCCEED IN THE COUNTRY IS VERY PROMISING. In 2007, the Association of Filipino Franchisers Inc. (AFFI) posted a significant growth rate of 31 percent in terms of number of stores and revenues. As of the latest count, AFFI has 80 members with 4,000 outlets posting an income of PHP13.8 billion annually. Amid the weak performance of the economy, AFFI president Rommel Juan says the industry will continue to grow this year albeit slightly lower. “We are still very optimistic about the industry’s growth despite the problems we are facing. OFW remittances are steadily increasing, our tourist visitors posted an alltime high last year and the property sector is booming which mean there’s a strong market that will need food and services franchises.

AFFI will still be able to realize significant growth rate this year only it might be slightly lower than in 2007 given the higher cost of materials and factors like competition,” Juan explains.

The high success rate of franchising business in the Philippines against all-out start-ups attracts entrepreneurs to join the bandwagon.

Franchisees do not have to start a business from scratch and mistakes are minimized because they will sell an established and successful brand backed by a proven business system and support services from the franchiser is already in place. “New businesses suffer a fallout rate of about 85 percent within the first year. In

contrast, 98 percent of franchised businesses last beyond a year,” says Juan.

But before deciding on which business to franchise, an interested franchisee must realize that franchising is not for everyone.

“They have to talk to themselves first before the start of any franchise program if they are qualified to become a franchisee. They must commit themselves to the business and work hard to make it succeed,” take it from Jorge Wieneke, an experienced franchiser who is currently president of franchise businesses Buy the Bucket and Kanin ni Tisay and a founding member of AFFI. “There’s a long list of possible franchise businesses from

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

KABUHAYAN 21

Money, Assets and Investing food carts and restaurants to laundry services and water refilling stations but interested franchisees should know their interests and what they do best,” he adds.

Next, make sure to choose a franchiser that has a credible track-record. Wieneke warns against the proliferation of fly-bynight franchisers who may not yet have the necessary experience to franchise their business but nevertheless do so because of the potential of growing their brand and earning more from royalty or the continuing fee that a franchisee pays to the franchiser for the use of trademark, business systems and support. “Ask them first questions about their background and business practices. Will they be able to support you throughout the duration of your franchise agreement? Make sure you will be able to get along well with the franchisors because you will be working with them to a great extent,” he says.

When looking for a franchiser, always ask for the franchise system because this serves as a road map that will guide the franchisee towards business development and expansion. Choose only franchisers that are members of AFFI or the Philippine Franchisers Association (PFA).

Finally, know how much capital is necessary for a particular franchise business. An interested franchisee must be prepared to invest a starting capital from a low of PHP100,000 to a high of PHP20 million depending on the type of the business.

According to AFFI and PFA the food franchise business sector will continue to dominate the industry this year and its strength is seen to carry on in 2009. A restaurant business will require PHP1.5 million to P3 million as initial capital depending on the size, location and products of the business. While this type of business necessitates a big capital outlay, the return of investment is also higher ranging from PHP50,000 to PHP100,000 net profit a month. A typical food cart business on the other hand will need lower capitalization ranging from PHP150,000 to PHP500,000.

However, interested franchisees might consider opening more than one outlet to earn, according to Wieneke. “One cart will earn you approximately PHP5,000 to PHP20,000 a month. If for example you are a banker earning a salary of PHP80,000, the income coming from the business is almost negligible. You must own at least five carts if you want to take the business seriously,” he explains.

Services franchises particularly businesses related to health and wellness and retail franchises are also seen to experience growth because of the increasing health consciousness among Filipinos and the rising prospects of

medical tourism in the country.

Also, prepare extra money to cover the costs of security deposits, building costs for the outlet including expenses for leasehold improvements, equipments and furniture and fixtures, and pre-operating expenses such as business registration fees, permits and insurances. Do not be misled by advertisements that claim you’ll be needing only PHP20,000 to own a franchise because the entire franchise investment covers the franchisee fee, cost of inventory and other expenses required to put up and run an outlet including payment for lease, utilities and labor.

Once all requisites are covered, an interested party may submit a Letter of Intent to their chosen franchiser, fill out the application form and prepare for an interview with the franchiser or its business manager.

Setting up the franchise is one side of the coin, running the business once it is fully operation is another. Make sure you choose a franchiser who will be able to support you throughout the duration of your contract.

The franchiser or its managers should meet with the franchisee regularly, conduct branch visits and assess operations for possible improvements and recommendations. For the part of the franchisee, a great deal of mental and physical endurance is required to withstand long working hours especially during the onset of the business.

Given the potential of franchise businesses and the attractive packages offered by franchisers these days, a number of professionals even OFWs are trying their hands on the business. Aside from the additional income, OFWs will earn from the business while they are away. Juan says owning a franchise is also a good way to retire after they have decided to come home.

“Many of the new franchisees today are either OFWs themselves or their relatives whom they have entrusted to manage their investment. By getting into franchising, OFWs will have an easier time to re-integrate into society upon their return. They have a business waiting for them, the money they have worked hard for is not wasted and they are assured of a better and secured future after work abroad,” Juan says.

However PFA President Robert Trota warns interested franchisees to be prepared for tough times especially when the economy is not performing at its best and when competition gets in the way of growth. Trota encourages entrepreneurs to always strive for quality products and services at competitive prices at all times. “The increasing cost of commodities has in a way hampered the growth of franchise. The industry is making

an effort to remain efficient by absorbing a little bit of the cost. You’ll have to increase prices at some point but it’s not good to just keep on passing the cost to consumers,” says Trota.

Juan advises business owners to cutback on operational expenses to keep prices low and remain competitive in the business. “Go straight to the source for raw materials. This will also lessen your dependence on imported inputs. If you can control your costs, you will be able to maximize your profit,” he says.

In spite of the hurdles along the way, AFFI and PFA are optimistic about the bright future of franchising in the Philippines. The government has likewise given recognition and pledged support to the growing franchising industry for its significant contribution to the economy.

Successful franchisees are a testament to potential of franchise business in improving the lives of Filipinos but Wieneke warns a franchise may have the best brand and the most efficient business model but that’s only half of the equation.

“There is a misconception that owning a franchise business is a sure-ticket to success and financial stability. That’s not true. Franchisers and their franchisees have to work hard to make the business succeed. Remember that the franchisers offer a proven brand and an effective system to expedite the creation of the business but it is all up to franchisees to make the system work for them,” he says.

22 KABUHAYAN

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Money, Assets and Investing

Franchise Opportunities in the Philippines IN THE SPIRIT OF ENCOURAGING FILIPINOS ABROAD TO INVEST IN THE LUCRATIVE WORLD OF FRANCHISING, HERE ARE SOME PROMISING FRANCHISE OPTIONS TO LOOK INTO.

Ministop Description: 24-hour convenience store History: Began in 2000. Franchising since 2003.

Franchise fee: PHP728,000 Total investment: PHP1,300,000 to PHP3,000,000 Estimated Investment Recovery Period: Three to four years Contact: Robinsons Convenience Store Inc (632) 672.2279 business@ministop.com.ph www.ministop.com.ph

Reyes Haircutters Aquabest Description: Purified drinking water-refilling outlet.

History: Franchising since 1997 Total investment: PHP450,000 Estimated Investment Recovery Period: Eight months to one and a half years Contact: Global Quality Waters and Environmental Solutions Technologies Inc (632) 412.9652 to 54 gqwest_mktg@hotmail.com www.aquabest.org

Bibingkinitan Description: Food outlet that sells all-time Filipino favorite bibingka in petite or small sizes.

History: Franchising since 2006 Franchise fee: PHP150,000 Total investment: PHP300,000 Estimated Investment Recovery Period: Three months to one year Contact: Philippine FoodAsia Corporation (632) 809.0884, (632) 776.0788 franchise@theteasquare.com www.theteasquare.com

Ink for Less Description: Refilling service for computer ink and toner.

History: Franchising since 2003.

Franchise fee: PHP200,000 Total investment: PHP600,000 to PHP800,000 Estimated Investment Recovery Period: One to one and a half years.

Contact: ACA Franchising Group (632) 687.5165 inkforless@afg.com.ph www.inkforless.com.ph

Max’s Restaurant Description: Classic family restaurant that specializes in fried chicken and other Filipino favourites.

History: Began in 1945. Franchising since 1998.

Franchise fee: PHP2,000,000 Total investment: PHP9,000,000 Estimated Investment Recovery Period: Four to five years Contact: Max’s Franchising Inc (632) 832.1991 www.maxschicken.com

Description: Salon service and beauty product center History: Began in 1991. Franchising since 2001.

Franchise fee: PHP350,000 Total investment: PHP1,400,000 to PHP2,400,000 Estimated Investment Recovery Period: One to two years Contact: Reyes Hair Company International Inc (632) 727.9606 rhc_franchisedept@yahoo.com.ph www.reyeshaircutters.com

Waffle Time Description: Food kiosk that sells waffles stuffed with different fillings and flavors like hotdogs, cheese and chocolate.

History: Began in 1998. Franchising since 2004 Franchise fee: PHP50,000 Total investment: PHP250,000 Estimated Investment Recovery Period: Six months to one year Contact: Waffle Time Inc (632) 550.9912 customerservice@waffletime.com www.waffletime.com

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24 KABUHAYAN

MONEY

Money, Assets and Investing

The Debt Trap:

Sink … or swim along with the sharks!

By JR Bustamante

“WATCH OUT! IT’S A TRAP!” HORRIFIED FACES FILLED WITH THE REALIZATION THAT THERE IS NO WAY OUT ARE SHOWN ONSCREEN RIGHT BEFORE THE IMPENDING CAR AMBUSH — THEN CUT. JUST LIKE A MOVIE THAT KEEPS THE AUDIENCE AT THE EDGE OF THEIR SEATS IN SUSPENSE AS TO THE FINAL OUTCOME, THIS STORY ALSO STARTS NEAR THE END SO THERE IS STILL A CHANCE; A HOPE FOR A HAPPY ENDING. Once upon a time in the lives of Filipinos, there was that irresistible opportunity for a better job in another country. So after the hands are shaken and contracts are signed, the adventure to a more prosperous life overseas begins — or so it seems. In anticipation of the increased monthly compensation, the OFW commits his first financial mistake by making a down payment on a home that is yet to be built and developed. And worst of all, he is spending money that he hasn’t even earned yet.

“Bahala Na” The moment the plane lands into new territory, OFWs are introduced to a new culture, a new working schedule, a new pace, new possibilities, and new dreams. As he begins work, barely adjusted yet to his new environment, he will be presented with the temptation of credit cards, easy car loans, and investment propositions which will be difficult to refuse as it appeals to his natural

tendencies of “keeping up with the Joneses.”

With the credit card within his reach, he will make even more mistakes — as big as his credit limit will take him. Along with the new job in a new country, comes a change in lifestyle and spending habits, which, combined with a lack of self-discipline, can spell disaster for Pinoys.

Without understanding the numbers and risks involved with investments, they start to spend like there was no tomorrow or that the money will keep coming in forever. Thus begins a life of slavery to debt as one thing leads to another until the Pinoy ends up in a place he never imagined: between the devil and the deep blue sea. Bam! It all happens so fast, he won’t even know what hit him. This example may not apply to all OFWs but there are a number who will fall into this situation and react accordingly.

More often than not, Pinoys unknowingly are going deeper in debt without an inkling of how

to get out of this trap. They are encouraged by external factors — credit cards, easy loan access — when combined with the cultural aspect and emotional needs of Pinoys, lead towards an uncertain future which is shrugged off with the ‘bahala na attitude’.

Starting with the end result is the only way to awaken Pinoys to the danger that lurks ahead if they refuse to change their happy-go-lucky ways and start saving for the future.

Think Twice Before You Get That Credit Card “When you want something really bad and don’t have the cash for it, you will be tempted to use your credit card without any clear idea of how you will pay when your billing statement comes. To help you strengthen your discipline not to use your card, it is good to understand the consequences.” Financial adviser Francisco J. Colayco, author of Wealth Within Your Reach (2004 National Book Award for Business and Economics),

MONEY

KABUHAYAN 25

Money, Assets and Investing

has seen it all how credit cards can wreck lives of the weak-willed or ignorant. So better be well-informed before you dare to start or continue a dangerous relationship with the credit card.

“The highest interest rate charged for loans is the interest on credit cards. When you are not able to pay the complete amount in your statement, the amount due becomes a loan.

Unfortunately, interest cannot be suspended and does not end until you pay off your loan completely. Interest rate of credit card loans [in the Philippines] is usually 3.5% per month. This is 42% per year when the usual loan interest rates are about 12-17% per year.

To make matters worse, the amount you pay each month will be used to pay off the interest due on your outstanding balance first before even reducing the loan amount. In addition, finance charges are based on the remaining balance due on the previous billing plus new transactions incurred from the current billing cycle. This means that it is possible that you are paying mostly interest every month and hardly reducing your loan amount.” explains Colayco.

When you get into credit card debt, Colayco advises to cancel your credit cards right away and use only cash. “If it took you some time to accumulate your credit card debt, it may take you even longer to get out of it especially

if you do not start immediately. But do not despair. So many have your same problem but so many have been able to get out of it because of discipline and determination. Your addressing the problem now is a sure sign that you can do it.”

For those who are not into any credit card debt, Colayco insists: “don’t even think that you should try it because anyway, you can get out of it eventually. I assure you that you do not want to create stress for yourself and to waste your time thinking of how you will do this. It is better to deprive yourself now of whatever it is that you want to buy. Save first to get the item rather than allow yourself to get into debt.”

Save First, Remit After “Lahat ng suweldo ipinapadala dito.”

Colayco laments that most OFWs send 8090% of their earnings back home and only keep 20-10% for their daily expenses. There is no money set aside for his personal savings.

He believes this is wrong.

“Why would you do that?

Eh kung magkasakit ka, sino ang magbibigay sa iyo?” Colayco advises to first set aside an amount for the daily expenses like 20%, remit only 30%, then the rest of the salary is to be kept as savings.

He narrated the case of an OFW who asked his advice after working for 17 years without any savings to show because he sent 90% of his earnings back home. He was told to reduce the remittance amount to 30% and after 9 months of following this advice, the man was able to save P60,000. “Umangal ba sila? Siyempre hindi nila tatanggihan iyon, you are giving them money. Can you imagine how much he would have saved today if he started 17 years ago? The problem is that these people are simple, well-meaning folks who haven’t seen that much money before.

Malaki na ang P20,000. In their minds, mayaman na sila receiving this amount on a monthly basis. They don’t realize that the contract is only for 3 years.”

“Mahirap labanan ang mindset na iyon . . . so they have to be educated on what they are losing, or what their money can do. For a small amount like P30 a day or P1,000 a month, if you let it compound, it will grow.” Colayco advises.

Relatives are Not Financial Experts Colayco explains that “while OFWs usually earn much more than what they used to earn in the Philippines, many return home with hardly enough money to retire comfortably after many years of hardship. Worse, many end up with even less than what they earned

26 KABUHAYAN

MONEY

Money, Assets and Investing when they first left for abroad.” A reason behind this is their lack of understanding how gains or profits are made so they invest their hard earned cash blindly. They haven’t the slightest idea on how to secure income on investments presented to them. So they take advice from relatives — who also hardly know anything about investing.

“A Filipino would buy from Filipino. ‘Uy Auntie ko yan, hindi ako lolokohin niyan.’” According to Colayco, this is the OFWs belief regarding investing their money on the advice of relatives. “Wala naman alam yung Auntie sa binebenta niya. The Auntie will not say na may commission siya. Okay daw yung kompanyang yan, guaranteed daw. Eh sino ang nagguarantee? Siya. Anong basis niya for guaranteeing?”

Pinoys would put their lifelong savings in a business or investment they know nothing about so naturally they will lose money.

“What this collective experience of OFWs prove is that there are as many challenges and difficulties to earning money as in keeping it,” Colayco said. “Growing one’s money is just as important as earning it.”

Debt Rehab Plan

start to take control of your funds: Prepare a reduced spending plan (actually a savings plan) in writing with specific spending items to be reduced. This will be your guide for paying your debt earlier. There should be clear timelines or deadlines to reduce your debt.

Save every peso or dirham possible to pay off your credit card bill. Respect each peso or dirham because it is the start to credit card freedom. Focus on savings first: concentrating on needs and completely removing any wants in your daily expenses.

Look for additional income. It is important that you talk about these with your spouse and children so that they will be completely cooperative and disciplined enough to limit expenses to needs.

Colayco adds that “The savings suggestions might sound difficult but you really have to seriously sacrifice until the credit cards debts are fully paid. You will be in bigger trouble if you don’t move very quickly. Remember, these are just the bitter medicines and if properly done, is really only temporary until you get all your plans together.”

“Puwede na . . . Medyo . . . Akala ko”

Start right away by “investing in debt” according to Colayco. “After cutting your credit cards, write a letter to the bank and send it with the cut card. Negotiate with your credit card company for a payment schedule with a lower interest rate and try to ask for penalties to be condoned.” Colayco lists below other steps on how to reduce debt and

These are three Tagalog phrases that Colayco abhors as this cultural flaw in the Pinoy’s thinking process results in mediocre performance “Puwede na (that’s good enough), Medyo (more or less), and Akala ko (I thought that, or I assumed that) are words that connote a vague mindset. Puwede na mentality means sloppy work, good for one day but tomorrow it breaks up because it wasn’t done right. Then there is medyo; medyo malakas, medyo mahina How fast or how slow? Medyo mabilis, medyo mabagal. What does that mean? The Japanese would answer 30% faster or 20% slower . . . ang liwanag. Everything here is relative, iba sa iyo, iba sa akin. Thirdly, there’s the ‘ay sorry’, akala ko kasi eh. Iyan ang tatlong problema ng Pinoy, if you ask me.

If you address these three, you are ok. It’s all mindset.”

These are some of the cultural nuances that set Pinoys back from truly succeeding in their endeavors and indirectly contribute to the debt perpetuation. The first step forward is to change this way of thinking and eventually positive effects will follow.

The formula for OFW success basically boils down to “Work Hard and Save Hard.”

FRANCISCO J. COLAYCO, an entrepreneur, venture developer and financial advisor, is Chairman of of the Colayco Foundation for Education (CFE), a prime mover of the financial literacy movement. “Save what you earn and grow what you save” is a simple principle that Mr. Colayco wishes to share with ordinary income earners, students and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

He is also the founder and chairman of the Kapatiran sa Kasaganaan Service and Multi-purpose (KSKSMP) Cooperative, an investment cooperative formed by active OFWs who are mostly based in Hong Kong, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, and retired OFWs back in the Philippines. He has over 40 years of experience that covers service contracting in the Middle East, manufacturing, trading, construction, shipbuilding, management consulting, banking and financial services.

Other financial books he published are: Making Your Money Work (Nominated in 2005, National Book Awards Business and Economics), Pera Palaguin Workbook and Money for Kids.

28

SUCCESFUL PINOY

Success Principles

From Here to There (Mag-successful Career Shift Na!)

By Jeffrey ‘Ximo’ Ramos

Greetings sis and bro! Masaya ka pa ba sa iyong trabaho? Gusto mo na bang lumipat from here to there? Have you asked yourself this question to the tune of – “should I stay or should I go now?”

Kaya umpisahan nang magsabi, “Magtatrabaho ako at magiging masaya sa aking karera! At kung hindi na, mag-good bye na!”

Career shift na!

You should consider two things when you plan your career shift - the position you want, and the field you want to be in. Dahil alam mo na ngayon ang gusto mo sa buhay, ang iyong kakayahan at purpose - kaya mo na ngayon na mag-career shift papunta sa iyong tagumpay.

This is your test. Habang ikaw ay nasa posisyon mo ngayon o sa isang field na iyong kinalalagyan tanungin ang sarili: “Pagiging Sales Coordinator ba talaga ang posisyong gusto ko? Sa field ng advertising? O baka parehas kong ayaw sa position at field na kinalalagyan ko ngayon?

Hindi na ‘ko masaya Career success is equated with the right compensation, plus happiness in what you do.

When one is missing, you’re not successful, sis and bro. Tama?

Ang tayog tayog na ng iyong posisyon, pero ni hindi ka man lang makapag-exercise o makapag laan ng oras sa iyong sarili dahil sa sobrang demand ng trabaho mo. These are signs that something is wrong.

Are you willing to sacrifice your health and fitness for your work? Isn’t it a fact that you are working to have a better life? If your work has put your health at risk, perhaps it is time to look for the ‘right career path’. Unless, you define a better life as “being famous in the career you have chosen, the same career that has put you to your death bed.”

Consider these. Baka naman gusto ko ang aking pagiging Sales Coordinator pero mas gusto ko sa field ng computer dahil mas hilig at malawak ang kaalaman ko sa mga computers?

Puwede kasi na gusto mo talaga ang posisyon mo pero hindi ka masaya sa kinalalagyang field mo ngayon. O gusto mo yung field pero hindi mo gusto yung kinapwepwestuhan mo.

Parang iyong tatay ng aking kaklase. Isang magaling na mekaniko ng sasakyan sa isang companya sa Saudi Arabia na na-promote sa position bilang isang foreman. Ngunit imbis na sumaya siya, sumakit lang ang kanyang ulo sa mga ‘under’ niyang mekaniko dahil hindi alam ang kanilang ginagawa. At dahil naman hindi siya sanay ng management skills at kahit na anong pag-aaral ay ayaw tanggapin ng kanyang isipan, siya na rin mismo ang gumawa ng mga palpak na trabaho ng mga trabahador niya.

Imbis tuloy na maayos agad ang trabaho humaba pa. Imbis na siya ay maging masaya lalo pa siyang naaborido dahil wala duon ang kanyang position-interest. Wala duon ang kanyang kaligayahan. Tinaasan na lang siya ng suweldo katumbas ng isang foreman pero same position as senior mechanic.

To be successful in your work and career you should like your position and the field you are in. Kung kulang ka dito, there is still time. Lots of time.

Hindi ko sinasabing mag-resign ka na ngayon at mag career shift. No! Habang nandiyan ka ngayon sa present work or career mo, magisip maigi at mag apply ng mag apply ng trabaho, magtanong sa mga taong nag-career shift lalo na sa position at field na gusto mong puntahan. Just do this.

Nothing is too late. Magiging late lang ito kapag nagpasya ka na, na “puwede na ako dito” and you did not do your homework.

Galingan mo!

Huwag i-compare ang sarili sa ibang tao Kung ano man ang napasukan mo, ano man ang job description mo, ano man ang papel mo, isa lang ang nararapat mong gawin – galingan mo!

Darating ang sapat na oras na magiging bihasa ka na sa iyong trabaho na kaya mo nang gawin kahit na nakapikit at wala ng kailangan pang magturo. When this time comes, you are ready to go to the next level – a higher position – on to new challenges.

(Hindi iyong kakaumpisa mo pa lang gusto mo na agad ma-promote! Tapos, iiyak-iyak ka kapag di ka na pagbigyan.)

Sa kagalingang iyon, kasama na rin ang babala na hindi nararapat na ikumpara ang iyong galing sa iba and vise versa. Because you will either get frustrated because you

SUCCESFUL PINOY 29

Success Principles

feel that the other one is better than you are or you will find yourself better than the other and it will give you reason to build pride and boast! Either way, it will take away the joy that you are supposed to feel when you are working. Do not let it come into your head and rob you out of your dream. Do not let it corrupt you!

Work policies are intended to be good.

“Eh, hindi nga maayos ang pagpapalakad sa amin.” Ito ang karaniwang nangyayari.

Maraming Pinoy ang nakakaranas ng ganito.

So, what should you do? Get out of the job?

No, not yet.

Ito ang isa sa naging problema ko sa aking past jobs. I have always thought of doing what is “good.” So, I did my work well and contributed as much as I can to the point of “trying” to change some policies. Minsan, akala natin mas magaling tayo sa iba. Tandaan, policies were made and intended to be good.

May purpose iyan kung bakit ginawa.

So, what to do?

First, follow the policies. Put in mind that it was intended to better your work environment.

Second, if you find that there are negative policies, study them; it might have something to do with the prevalent belief and culture. If it is not affecting you adversely, just let it be.

Kung sabi ng policy ninyo na kailangan mag uniform ng paldang bulaklakin at magsuot ng name tag na kasing laki ng car plate, gawin mo - kahit gaano pa kabaduy iyon. But if a policy affects you in a very bad way and is hindering your progress, it is time to check other possibilities. Talk to people and check newspapers for openings.

Once, you have an offer, it is time to ‘suggest’ and negotiate. If nothing happens, by all means go out and move on. Do not compromise your life.

Treat your boss right or be your own boss

Whether you like it or not you are paid to make your boss look good. So, you have to do it. Just do your job as described, do not feel superior to him even if his techniques are ‘old school’. He is there for a reason. He may be senior – experience wise, his expertise strengthened by time, or he may simply be the son of the owner. Whatever the reason – he is still your boss.

You have to abide by the policies he believes in; it doesn’t matter if he asks you to do presentations using ‘cartolina’ or Manila paper – just do it. Never play “the good employee who knows a lot.” That was my mistake before. Akala ko I was contributing.

I was wrong – I created friction and tension within the company. I became “the know-itall employee vs. the “know so little boss.”

Obviously, you know who wins at the end.

What I am saying now is obey and respect for as long as it is within the bounds of the truth and values. Live in this principle: No Servant is greater than his Master. If you believe that you are better than your boss then be the boss of your own company.

That is the reason why, from the beginning of my book, I always tell Pinoys to engage in your own business that you can control and command – one where you can say you are the boss. Ito kasi yung back-up mo.

So, ok na ba tayo sis and bro?

Malawak ang topic na ito at maraming dapat i-consider – your dreams, your family, your health, your plans, etc.

For the meantime, prepare your mind and fill it with knowledge and steps so that when it is time for you to decide, YOU will be objective and ready to do what is best for

you (wala dapat sisihan). At dapat mo ring isipin, when you do not take risks, that is a risk in itself.

It’s time for you to find that successful career and create a path from where you are now to where you want to be – from here to there!

If you have questions or topics you would like us to discuss, send us an email at theauthor@successfulpinoyako.com

30

SUCCESFUL PINOY

Career Upliftment

Learn like a Sponge

By Ron Villejo, Ph.D.

Children are like sponges. They want to learn so much, and they’re curious with just about everything.

They want to explore every nook and cranny of the house, and they play such imaginative games in the playground. As adults, we seem to have less of that mental ‘sponginess.’ In the rush of everyday life, we hardly look at the world around us with the brighteyed curiosity of that earlier age.

Let’s try to recover that ‘sponginess’ and curiosity, for learning is crucial to doing well on the job, gaining a bigger salary, and pushing our career forward. Here’s how we can do so.

Taking Stock of your Talent

There is a war for talent in different sectors and regions of the world. There has been a major exodus of nationals, and India, the UK, and the Middle East represent just a few of the countries working to attract their nationals back. Clearly diaspora is not just a Philippine phenomenon.

effectively and efficiently, so must you take stock of your talent. Do the exercise below, and you may discover that you have a lot in your inventory!

Here’s where we come in: These ‘attraction’ efforts are simply not enough, as many countries need more of the kind of talent that Filipinos, for example, bring – to engineer, service and otherwise fuel their growing economies.

What resides in our head (knowledge), hands (skills) and feet (motivation) are truly precious commodities.

List all the things you can do. I don’t mean job responsibilities, but the underlying skills that make you able to do these things. For example, I’m good at doing training programs, but my specific skills are speaking and facilitating (‘platform skills’), analyzing (e.g., training needs), designing and developing (e.g., programs). I can use these skills in a range of activities, such as public speaking, scientific projects, and marketing initiatives. Indeed they’re transferable from one position to another. These are your core assets – the more you have, the greater your talent portfolio.

So, just as a manufacturing company must have a clear view of its inventory to operate

List all the things you know – what you’ve learned from your experiences, from school

or sports, from parents, mentors et al. Again, don’t settle for broad knowledge, but rather list specific things. For example, previously, I worked in the Middle East as a management consultant: I knew that an amazing 2/3rds of the world’s oil reserves lie in this region and that the biggest supply constraint isn’t crude oil per se but refined oil (i.e., gasoline).

What’s more, I knew that in Arabic culture, it’s impolite to show the bottom of your shoes to others. I leveraged such knowledge in landing a job with an Arab oil company.

Building your Talent

Many employees first look to training programs or conferences for their learning.

Next, they may consider books, journals and the internet. Finally, on-the-job (OTJ) learning gets whatever leftover interest and attention

SUCCESFUL PINOY

31

Career Upliftment

they may have. In order of effectiveness, however, OTJ learning is actually number one. Yes, programs, conferences and books are all good – I relish them myself – but how you apply your lessons learned and utilize your insights gained, after these events, are more important in building your talent.

Here are some benefits of OTJ learning: (a) what you learn is more apt to be relevant and useful, (b) application of knowledge is part of the effort, and (c) it doesn’t present additional costs to your employer. I’ve advised managers and executives, who have had misguided notions of learning, with the half-joking reprimand, “You can’t spend all your time in programs or at conferences – you have a job to do!”

What can you do to build your talent portfolio?

Be clear on what you want to achieve with your learning. Perhaps you want to rise to a managerial position, which requires knowledge, skills and experience in the different sections of the department.

Maybe you want to learn how to do another assignment or project, just to expand your talent repertoire and raise your financial worth (read: higher salary). Regardless, know your purpose; be clear on your goals.

Identify your assets (strengths) and gaps (weaknesses) vis-à-vis your goals. Now that you’ve taken stock of your talent, you know exactly which assets will help you achieve your goals. By the same token, you can identify the key gaps that you’ll need to bridge. Of course, you should know specifically what it takes to achieve your goals, and this may mean talking to people and doing some research.

Two rules from Dr. Ron: (1) Just because you’ve identified certain weaknesses, it doesn’t mean you should develop all of them. Rather, build only those areas that are critical for achieving your goals. Don’t sweat the small stuff – the less important gaps. (2) Also, remember to keep using your strengths.

Like any muscle, your assets can weaken or even atrophy, if they’re not used regularly.

These rules are part-and-parcel of purposedriven learning.

Take small, regular steps to learn. Put a plan together of what you can do OTJ on a daily basis. (I mean, daily, not once in a while.)

Five minutes is often all it takes for each effort. For example, suppose you aim to become a marketing manager: You’re part of a sales team and you work closely with marketing for your product initiatives and sales drives. Well, on one day, you Google marketing and download a few facts about what marketers do. Next day, you ask a question of your marketing colleague, in response to his or her e-mail. Then, as part of catching up on the day’s news, you read relevant articles in the business section.

What’s more, you arrange to have lunch with the marketing manager, so you can chat and learn – what is the amount of additional time invested learning in this way? Zero, because you have to eat anyway, di ba! You get the picture. Purpose-driven, small step by small step – all of these are good sustainable efforts to learn.

There are, of course, jobs (and goals) that require investment in formal education. I

worked in an in-patient psychiatric unit, after graduating with my BA in psychology. I was fortunate to be surrounded with talented colleagues, I learned a lot and it was loads of fun. But to become an expert, I needed a graduate degree. You may need to go back to school to achieve your goals. Plan for it, make it happen. Some companies will pay for part or all of your tuition, if it’s jobrelevant schooling, so be sure to find out.

Being like a Child The foregoing points are the mechanisms of learning. Here’s the spirit you should adopt: Open your eyes as if you were looking at things around you for the first time. Explore the usual places like you’ve never been there before. Ask questions, because even the simplest, innocent questions connect us with others, show them that we’re curious, and give them the privilege of teaching us. Reflect on the things that happen to you and around you, and I’m confident you will learn so much!

32 COCONUTER

THE NIGHT WAS COOL; IT HAD BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I FELT SUCH A SENSATION. I SLEPT UNDER SHEETS TO THE QUIET HUMMING OF THE AIR CONDITIONER, AS IT PUMPED COLD AIR WITHIN THIS ENCLOSED BRICK ‘IGLOO.’ IT WAS SO STILL WITHIN THAT I WAS HARDLY EVEN AWARE OF THE RAINY WEATHER OUTSIDE.

Back to Modern Civilization

By David Poarch

It seemed so surreal that just weeks ago, I was thousands of miles away on the other side of the Earth laying on a hard banig and listening to the croaking of frogs and chirping of insects as the moonlight beamed through the translucent jelosy windows. I could still imagine feeling the droplets of moisture trickle down my body as perspiration condensed on my skin during those hot and humid summer nights with unexpected blackouts. Sometimes amidst the glow of candlelight, I would find myself just staring at the gritty, gray slabs of concrete that made the walls of that hollow block-built exoskeleton, patiently waiting for the electricity to return. But if a typhoon was upon us, there would always be a cool misty air that’s a good substitute for a fan for the night, accompanied by the wild beating of the yero during the storm.

The rattling of the tin roof in my dream gradually morphed into the aggravating ringing of the alarm clock. I smacked it with irritation, yet I was the one who had set it the night before, as I planned on attending a job fair. The dreaming was over. There was no time for it in this modern reality and no room for vagabonds drifting without a direction. Unlike the pastoral, leisurely living in the provinces of the Philippines, survival in the developed world is a whole other story, especially with the cut-throat employment competition in the American labor market with the current economic slump. I needed a job, and I needed it fast.

I hopped out of bed and headed towards the bathroom. I brushed my teeth with some minty-fresh, whitening toothpaste and shaved with a multi-bladed razor and aloe vera-enriched, moisturizing shaving cream.

I couldn’t help but feel overly pampered by such ‘fancy’ products. I remembered the times in the Philippines when I scrubbed my teeth using only water, chewed guava leaves for a fresh breath, and shaved with soap and the same single-blade razor for almost a year just to save money.

Next, I stepped into the tub. A shower with hot water replaced the old balde and tabo.

After soaping up and washing hair and body, I just stood there enveloped in a liquid blanket of warmth, not wanting to get out and face the cold but stepping out anyway because I knew the water meter ticked here as well.

I wiped and faced the fogged up mirror as I dressed. Skin dry, lips cracked, and with a tan still lingering, it appeared that I had not yet fully adapted. I put on some formal clothes for the occasion, buttoning my long sleeve shirt all the way to the neck and slipping on a tie. As I tightened the tie until snug, it seemed like a re-initiation back into modern civilization.

Despite the formal attire, this nomad still had a long way to go before becoming the fullblown working, civilized man. Apart from the lack of a job, which translated to a lack of money, I was also legless; I didn’t have a car and didn’t have car insurance. Like a fish out of water, I was left paralyzed without the necessary equipment to effectively function in this new terrain. I needed help to get back on my feet, and I was fortunate enough to have family members to lean on.

My sister offered to drive me to the job fair. We headed towards the city where skyscrapers suddenly rose from the woods.

Approaching downtown, job hungry, I gazed up at such urban marvels and just wished to be swept up and engulfed by one of these monster companies to take me out of the misery of this transitional stage.

Like slaves of centuries ago, fresh off the boat from Africa, the job-seekers were herded into the job fair to be examined and assigned to a plantation that would take them in. I handed my resumé to each of the recruiters, waiting for one of them to clamp the chain on me. But no one did. It seemed they found some rotten teeth in the inspection of the mouth as they questioned my withdrawal from college and the twoyear ‘sabbatical’ in the Philippines.

I waited for my sister outside until she could get out of school to pick me up. People stared as they passed by in their cars; I’m sure I made for a peculiar sight in my formal attire as I stood there waiting with my tie blowing in the wind. I wanted to wave my hand and have a jeepney materialize before me to take me away from this uncomfortable situation.

However, I was aware of the tradeoffs of transition, so I came expecting hardship to avoid a rude awakening. I was merely a piece that had yet to find its place in this complex jigsaw puzzle of the modern world. But seasoned with the trials of life, just like other Filipinos galing sa hirap ng buhay, I was a piece that was frayed just enough to hopefully be molded into a variety of slots, so I remained patient and trusted that my place would come in due time.

JET SET 34 FASHION

Hop on-board with the sleek and sexy look of the seasoned world traveller with stunning pieces in search of a scene.

It’s Filipino style that spells glam in any city around the globe - taking you international in jet set sophistication.

Photography: Dr.Marlon Pecjo for Studio M Photography Concept: Didi Dee at Hiraya Styling: Sidney Yap Make-Up: Diane De Castro Hair: Allan Arnecilla Models: Charmagne de Guzman of PMAP and Ry Farinas

From the world renowned creative gene pool of the global Filipino, Illustrado is proud to present the remarkable crop of top designers trailblazing on the catwalks and magazines from the Philippines to the Gulf region – our top picks for this year’s Style Honor Roll.

FASHION 35

On Charmagne - black and white stripe long dress by Ziggy Savella; red corset belt by Rodriguez de Alba Bespoke; black jacket by Jun Escario; gold serpent earrings by Panopio Jewellery at Manila Peninsula; black pumps by Cathryn and Charlz ; Bag by Bonia.

On Ry - black and white shirt from JPOI by Jeff Rogador at Rugged Door Podium; black zipper pants by Gian Romano; black trench coat by Rodriguez de Alba Bespoke

36 FASHION Black turtle neck and grey textured pants from JPOI by Jeff Rogador at Rugged Door Podium; checked jacket by Gian Romano

Halter dress by Alex Bitong accentuated with Pucciinspired printed gloves by Raoul Ramirez; earrings and belt by Victoria Marin

FASHION 37 Black dress by Louis Claparols at Stella Podium; pumps by Cathryn and Charlz; shawl with fringes

by Jun Escario; hat with feathers by Earl Gariando; cocktail ring by Cru; Bag by Bonia

38 FASHION

On Charmagne - nude dress with black beadwork, velvet shawl with silk fringe by Jun Escario; black pumps by Cathryn and Charlz; cocktail ring and earrings by Cru; Bag by Bonia On Ry - black knit top by Vault at Backstage Serendra; grey textured pants from JPOI by Jeff Rogador at Rugged Door Podium

FASHION 39

40 FASHION

On Charmagne - brown and gold gown by Eric delos Santos; shoes by Cathryn and Charlz; chandelier earrings and bracelet by Panopio Jewellery at Manila Peninsula; Bag by Bonia.

On Ry - grey top and black zipper pants by Gian Romano

FASHION 41

On Charmagne - magenta gown by Eric delos Santos; cocktail ring by Cru. On Ry - black tuxedo shirt and black velvet suit by Jerome Lorico; Bag by Bonia

42 FASHION

On Charmagne – gown by Catherine Cavilte; necklace by Panopio Jewellery at Manila Peninsula; bracelet by Cru; Bag by Bonia.

On Ry – white knitted top by Vault at Backstage Serendra; black velvet suit by Jerome Lorico

FASHION 43

Black dress by Jun Escario; black hooded cape by Czarina Villa at Backstage; shoes by Gaupo Shoe; couture ring by Cru; Bag by Bonia

44 FASHION

FASHION 45 Black dress by Jun Escario; black hooded cape by Czarina Villa at Backstage; shoes by Gaupo Shoe; couture ring by Cru

FASHION 45 Black dress by Jun Escario; black hooded cape by Czarina Villa at Backstage; shoes by Gaupo Shoe; couture ring by Cru

46 ILLUSTRADO RUNWAY

Fashion Watch featuring

Lulu Tan Gan

V

eteran designer and fashion maverick Lulu Tan Gan, known for her distinctively elegant knitwear recently showcased her new collection at a Fashion Watch Series event held at the lobby of the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel in Makati. The show was a display of Tan Gan’s characteristic fondness for effortlessly stylish leisure wear with a surprising dash of Pinoy elements thrown in for good measure.

The collection featured resort-inspired clothing, from body-skimming tops with shorts to shirts paired with diaphanous caftans on wide-leg pants, to a modern Maria Clara-inspired bridal ensemble. The pieces were accented with beads, buttons and knit treatments using tribal patterns. Also shown was the unexpected and irreverent combination of knitwear and elegant materials like piña, organza, lace and other native fabrics which are almost always utilized in traditional Filipiniana dressing giving the collection a decidedly Pinoy look, all richly-layered on Tan Gan’s signature style.

Tan Gan’s collection was put together in collaboration with designer Puey Quinones and her design assistant Solenn Heussaff. The show was directed by Robby Carmona, with hair and makeup by Patrick Rosas.

Fashion Watch is an ongoing series of shows that feature Manila’s top designers on their line-up. Among those involved are Rajo Laurel, shoe designer Cesar Gaupo, Rhett Eala and Dennis Lustico.

ILLUSTRADO RUNWAY 47

Fashion Maverick Lulu Tan Gan at the launch of her new collection

48 FASHION ROUND-UP

Splash “Eye On Design” casts its spell this winter Splash, the Dubai-based high-street fashion brand put on a fashion night with its latest Autumn/Winter collection at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers on 28th August, 2008. The fashion show entitled ‘Eye on Design’ marked the launch of Splash’s AW08 collection which will offer ‘couture-looking’ pieces at a steal.

The show designed to impress 700 VIPs attendees saw 30 models sashaying on the ramp in 80 ensembles from Splash’s designs for the AW08 collection, including select limited edition pieces. Highlighted were the season’s key trends such as the winter-bright colours – yellow, purple as electric blue against subtle hues of grey and black – as well as Japanese-design inspired pieces. The show opened in high drama, with a ‘glamgoth’ look with trench coats, long dresses, tuxedos and jackets in an interesting mix of fabrics such as brocades, silk, taffeta and satin. An up-beat and trendy second sequence showcased colorful, bold and youthful ‘tutus’, ‘raras’ and stylish tops. The piece de resistance was the final subtle-yet-sensuous segment which featured models in evening gowns made of lace, silk, chiffon and sequins.

Raza Beig, CEO-Splash, closed the show by walking the ramp for the show finale along with Nisha Jagtiani, Business Manager-Splash. Beig commented, “‘Splash’s fashion shows and after-parties have earned a reputation as one of the must-attend events in the region’s fashion and social calendar. With this collection we are sure that the show will become an accurate forecast of the season’s high-street fashion, what’s trendy and how it’ll reflect in the global market. We will continue to evolve while being spot-on trends and continue to offer ‘value’ to the customer. This has been our biggest show yet, and it backs the bold statement we’re making – Eye on Design. Splash is very proud of its culture of design, and intends to live by it.”

Capping the event was an after-party, where guests mingled over drinks and danced to music played by DJ Venus.

Guests at the after party

48 FASHION ROUND-UP

Splash “Eye On Design” casts its spell this winter Splash, the Dubai-based high-street fashion brand put on a fashion night with its latest Autumn/Winter collection at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers on 28th August, 2008. The fashion show entitled ‘Eye on Design’ marked the launch of Splash’s AW08 collection which will offer ‘couture-looking’ pieces at a steal.

The show designed to impress 700 VIPs attendees saw 30 models sashaying on the ramp in 80 ensembles from Splash’s designs for the AW08 collection, including select limited edition pieces. Highlighted were the season’s key trends such as the winter-bright colours – yellow, purple as electric blue against subtle hues of grey and black – as well as Japanese-design inspired pieces. The show opened in high drama, with a ‘glamgoth’ look with trench coats, long dresses, tuxedos and jackets in an interesting mix of fabrics such as brocades, silk, taffeta and satin. An up-beat and trendy second sequence showcased colorful, bold and youthful ‘tutus’, ‘raras’ and stylish tops. The piece de resistance was the final subtle-yet-sensuous segment which featured models in evening gowns made of lace, silk, chiffon and sequins.

Raza Beig, CEO-Splash, closed the show by walking the ramp for the show finale along with Nisha Jagtiani, Business Manager-Splash. Beig commented, “‘Splash’s fashion shows and after-parties have earned a reputation as one of the must-attend events in the region’s fashion and social calendar. With this collection we are sure that the show will become an accurate forecast of the season’s high-street fashion, what’s trendy and how it’ll reflect in the global market. We will continue to evolve while being spot-on trends and continue to offer ‘value’ to the customer. This has been our biggest show yet, and it backs the bold statement we’re making – Eye on Design. Splash is very proud of its culture of design, and intends to live by it.”

Capping the event was an after-party, where guests mingled over drinks and danced to music played by DJ Venus.

Guests at the after party

50 DESIGN

Eco-Design Revolution Takes Center Stage at Manila FAME International

The green lighT is on as PhiliPPine designers and manufacTurers sTage anoTher ediTion of manila f.a.m.e inTernaTional, asia’s Premier design desTinaTion on The 16Th To 19Th ocTober 2008 aT The smX convenTion cenTer manila PhiliPPines. manila fame is The flagshiP ProjecT of The cenTer for inTernaTional Trade eXPosiTions and missions, an aTTached agency of The deParTmenT of Trade and indusTry.

F

ollowing a tradition of bringing top of the line designs and quality home and fashion pieces for the past 25 years, the bi-annual trade event is once again set to showcase the country’s design flair, this time making it more exciting by using eco-friendly and sustainable materials such as abaca, rattan, capiz and many others. The scheme to “GO Green” started last year but now takes center stage as a way of giving back to Mother Earth.

Pete Delantar of Natures Legacy, one of Manila FAME’s exhibitors, says being green is not only about the product or the process; it also includes a lot of other things like manufacturing process, carbon footprint measurement, energy saving program, facility and environment management, community development program, recycling, water conservation and many more.

The bold design of the show embraces sustainability by tapping all the unique and indigenous raw materials found in the Philippine islands. Apart from the abundant raw materials, recyclable materials like newspapers, glass and scrap metals have been turned into fine furniture, unique home accents and chic fashion and holiday décor making Manila FAME International a hive of all things creative and innovative.

This edition’s designer consultants tasked to echo the green wave are Tes Pasola, Reimon Gutierrez and Luisa Robinson together with Milo Naval as the overall creative director. For fashion, Filipino accomplished fashion designers Ivarluski Aseron and Joey Samson have been tapped as merchandise consultants with Cesar Gaupo as the over-all curator for fashion. This year’s green theme highlights the collaborative efforts of the six designers. “Unconsciously we have always been recycling but this year with the right recycling procedures, we would take eco-consciousness into a higher level. By utilizing our rich sustainable materials and following proper recycling methods we can surely lower our cost while still making quality and greenfluenced products,” shares Ms. Tes Pasola.

DESIGN 51

Not just a platform for international exhibition, FAME also serves as the link between Philippine companies and the local and foreign design luminaries since 1983. The show’s Merchandise Design Consultancy Program or MDCP is a collaborative effort of designers and manufacturers in creating new products for the discerning worldwide market. In the past, international design luminaries Doug Fitch from New York and Rene Jan Coster named by Swarovski as one of the top 16 designers in the world were part of Manila FAME’s history.

The Furnishings and Apparel Manufacturers Exchange, more popularly known as the Manila FAME International again provides another quality shopping spree for big names in the industry with the likes of Detlef Klatt of German company O Living and Australian retailers Barbara and John Hermon of Hermon and Hermon who frequently come to source at the show. Over the years, brands such as Armani Casa, Pottery Barn, Tangs, Robinsons, Harrods and Papaya have made Manila Fame their best-kept secret sourcing fair.

Manila FAME International is an accredited event of the UFI, a Paris-based organization of leading trade show organizers and major international associations in the exhibitions industry. A number of exhibitors in the show were also recognized by Japan’s Good Design Award, Red Dot, the Unesco-AHPADA Seal of Excellence for Handicraft products in Southeast Asia and the International Design Yearbook.

Visit Manila FAME International and discover how local manufacturers embrace the green wave for more exciting and eco inspired design-driven pieces

For information, visit www.manilafame.com

52 ARTS

Ambassador for Ballet

By Joel Adriano

They have been hailed as the best ballet school in Asia by the Global Excellence Award Foundation. They have also developed a fearsome reputation when it comes to ballet competitions as they are known to dominate international competitions and sweep awards.

Local Syllabus She plays multiple roles to the school as founder, artistic director, ballet teacher and choreographer. For the past 23 years, she has successfully passed on the decades of training she had including from the School of American Ballet, American Academy of Ballet, Dance Educators of America, the Joffrey Ballet School, the American Ballet Center and the Nuebert Ballet Institute.

“I started dancing ballet at the age of eight and started performing professionally by the age of 14,” Shirley said.

She was on full scholarship at the Weinstein School of Music and Dance when she became an instructor herself at the very young age of 15 after her mentor left for abroad and asked her to take over the Siena College Ballet School. It was here where she first developed her teaching and management skills, which will prove to be crucial in her decision to put up a school of her own.

“I realized I am a natural teacher. I have this urge to share everything I know. I even want my students to be better than me. For me that would be my legacy,” Shirley explained.

More than a decade later, she did open her own ballet school and started with 40 students. Now she has over 1,000.

She currently has six branches all over Metro Manila and has invitations to open branches in Brunei and Malaysia. Some of her students come all the way from Nueva Ecija and Mindoro.

Just consider how the Halili-Cruz School of Ballet dancers won all the seven major perpetual awards to capture the grand slam victory at the 9th Asia Pacific Dance Competition held in Singapore while in the previous years they have won most of the awards.

Shirley Halili-Cruz founded the Halili-Cruz School of Ballet in 1985 being herself a world-class ballet performer in her prime.

Together with another prima ballerina Lisa Macuja, they have put the Philippines in the world ballet map. But while Lisa is known for her ballet performances, Shirley made her mark with her school.

But what truly distinguished her from other local ballet schools is the benchmark she set in teaching and facilities. Just like in professional schools abroad she has a ballet syllabus on which her school’s education is anchored. She explained that the syllabus is a kind of dance curriculum with a grading system for scientific progression. An examination is given

ARTS 53

before one gets promoted to the next level.

The syllabus contains dance executions that are to be performed. But instead of copying syllabus from abroad she actually authored one, a 12-level ballet syllabus, which she said is Filipino inspired and suited for the Filipino psyche, physique and natural talent to dance.

Passionate and dedicated, Shirley is able to keep ballet alive among the Filipino youth despite the many distractions available. As head of the National Committee on Dance of the National Commission on Culture and Arts, she travels around and goes to the barrios for audience development and preaches that ballet is not only for the elite. Her school also offers scholarships to promising young dancers.

Artistic gift She said dancing is important as it could develop not only discipline but also the confidence that one can carry over into the rest of their lives.

“However, it is not easy. In fact, it is very difficult,” she warned. “You must have passion and discipline. If you love dance, you must be willing to make sacrifices.” But

she emphasized Filipinos have talent for dancing which makes it easier.

“While some are very technical, such as the Chinese who can do incredible movements and do difficult steps but lack the emotional interpretation, Filipinos are very artistic in that they dance with heart and soul and that every movement has feelings,” Shirley enthuses. “This is very important as it shows in competitions.”

Shirley said that her ballet school also gives importance on value formation, attitude and overall development, perhaps leaning from her own experience as she excelled not just in the arts but also in school. She was the valedictorian in both grade school and high school levels and graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce degree with three majors: Accounting, Marketing and Management.

“So while I teach ballet, there is also character building, values formation and personality development. I teach my students to live with integrity and humility,” she said.

One hallmark of Halili-Cruz School of Ballet is that they never sell their dancers short.

They open opportunities for each student

and provide all the support for growth.

Even in competition, while other schools virtually select only the best to compete, Shirley also gives chances to young dancers that have growth potential.

In recognition of the school’s achievement as an excellent training school for ballet to thousands of young kids and teens, the school director, teachers and dancers were given a special presidential recognition in 2006 as “Real Filipino Achievers.”

Shirley is sometimes referred to as the Philippine dance ambassador for using dance as her way of cultural exchange and international relations through award winning performances in dance festivals and competitions. Recently, she was elected as chairperson of the Education Committee of the World Dance Alliance.

“Ballet has a way of expressing our patriotism. You can see from our performers the pride and determination to show the world that not everything about the Philippines are problems,” Shirley said. And her valuable work ensures our country will continue to have plenty to be proud of in the years to come.

54 HILIG PINOY

The ultimate sport

By Excel Dyquiangco

WHAT STARTED OUT AS PLAYFUL THROWS AND HURLS ON THE SEASIDE YEARS AGO, PLAYED BY PEOPLE OF ALL AGES, HAS NOW TRANSFORMED INTO A SPORT THAT IS ACTIVELY TAKING THE WHOLE COUNTRY BY STORM. Known by such names as disc or Frisbee, Ultimate Frisbee reached the Philippines when a few expats began throwing discs around a park in Makati some six years ago.

Eventually, the game caught on with locals and they, in turn, decided to have some serious fun with it, organizing a small league with four teams, which now ballooned to 21 teams.

The following was so huge that aside from just casual groups managing games every now and then in different parts of the country, Ultimate Frisbee has also made it to the Physical Education curriculum in some prestigious universities around the Philippines. And the fever ran so high that many a celebrities like Derek Ramsay and Ryan Eigenmann are either playing the game, or are coaching it.

So with all of the hype, one would ask what’s with the game? Why all the fuss about Frisbee and who’s keeping score?

Well, for one thing, Michell Almanzor, the president of the Philippine Ultimate Association (PUA), the only Ultimate organization here in the country, is keeping count and how! A thirty-two year old mom and teacher at Brent International School, Michell says that she started playing Ultimate after giving birth three years ago and eventually, she got hooked to it – a common phenomenon among those who have experienced the thrills of the disc with their very own hands.

For another, playing Frisbee is different from other sports because it involves a lot more running because of the field size. It also involves a lot of skill. Surprisingly, unlike other team games, there are no referees and officials to monitor the progress of the game. “There is an honesty system in playing Frisbee,” agrees twenty-four year old grade school teacher Mildred Jocano, who is part of a Frisbee group called 360. They have been playing the game for less than a year at the UP Sunken Garden. “You call your own foul – which is a lot different from basketball.” Her teammate, Ikoy Ricio, adds that there is simplicity in the game - the rules are easy to follow and one doesn’t have to really practice all the time to be good at it.

Frisbee is a team sport where groups are a mix of boys and girls. Inspite of the gender differences, Michell says she never found it difficult to compete with other guys as she

has been into sports all her life, particularly basketball. So when she got into Frisbee, there wasn’t the slightest pressure. “I think I have gained their respect as a player through what I can do on the field,” she says.

“Sometimes, it is tough for guys to share the disc with girls but if you work hard, you become part of the team regardless of your sex. In the end gender doesn’t really matter.”

In fact, she has been part and parcel of the Ultimate winning streak in some countries abroad. She has played in the Singapore Open for the past three years wherein the Philippine team played exceptionally well and impressed everyone. Last December, she also has traveled with Team Philippines as the team manager to Taiwan to the first Asian Games where they finished fourth.

Their beach team also placed second at the World Beach Championships in Brazil.

Considering the considerable play experience she has abroad, she claims that before joining any tournaments, she and her team always train and practice doubly hard on the field, focusing on the offense and defense strategy, making sure that they are all physically fit. She says that whatever Filipino players’ lack in height, they make up for with speed and skill.

Despite the awards they have won Michell admits that it’s still a learning process for

HILIG PINOY 55

them and that they still need to learn a lot.

“Ultimate in the Philippines is so young compared to other countries – we need more exposure to international competitions and we need experienced players to come in and teach us new stuff. The great thing about the community here is that we are always looking to learn new things,” she says.

That is why she decided to shift gears now – from playing to coaching, and she finds it a great experience. “Seeing the kids improve and watching them develop a real passion for the game is a great thrill for me,” she says. “In fact, this past league, three of my youth players were named to the mythical seven teams (all star teams). That was a really proud moment for me.”

Frisbee enthusiasts who would like to be part of the Ultimate action only need to join a league recognized by the PUA and to pay the annual membership fee. Their programs involve a beginners’ night which is held Wednesday nights from 7:30PM-10PM at the Meralco Baseball Field in Ortigas, the National Youth Training Program which Michell coaches and trains every Saturday from 2PM-6PM at the UP Sunken Garden, and Team Philippines. Players are asked to wear sneakers or cleats and comfortable shorts. Discs are provided by Michell’s team.

With more than a thousand members here in the country, about 500 playing in leagues around Metro Manila – with a ratio of five guys to four girls - and others just throwing discs around for fun, it appears that the PUA has done a great job of promoting the game of Ultimate Frisbee in the Philippines.

Ultimate Frisbee basics from PUA President Michell Almazor

to. Once you can make the disc fly correctly, then you can increase the distance.

Frisbee jargon: • Huck – a very long throw • Layout – to dive for a disc • Hammer – an overhead throw • Flick – forehand throw

• Start by learning to throw a backhand.

When comfortable with that, start on the forehand which takes more time and patience to learn.

Tips and Techniques: • Feet and shoulder should be distanced apart • Flick from the wrist - that is where the spin and speed comes from • Release the disc and follow through by pointing at the person or place you want the disc to go • When learning to throw, don’t stand too far away from the person you are throwing

• When catching the disc, use a basic pancake catch. Catching is just as important as throwing.

PUA Contact Details: Michell Almanzor 09283106414 Website: http://www.philippineultimate.org/ home/ Email: youthtp@yahoo.com.ph Mildred Jocano 09193416555 Email: superfriends33@gmail.com

56 PINOY PLANET Filipino Volunteers in Malawi

Bringing Hope to

MalawiCity

By Isabelo A. Samonte

While OFWs are knOWn tO be in every nOOk and cranny OF the WOrld’s bOOming labOr markets in the middle east and canada pursuing liFe in greener pastures, it is amazing hOW spirited FilipinO vOlunteers With nOthing but Faith, the Willingness tO help and their prOFessiOnal credentials, have rOlled up their sleeves tO extend suppOrt tO sOme underprivileged cOmmunities. these pinOy vOlunteers are a diFFerent breed OF OFWs. deprived OF cOmFOrt and Financial gains, they have Willingly extended prOFessiOnal services FOr humanitarian reasOns. nOt even in their Wildest dreams did they realize that they WOuld end up in One OF the WOrld’s nOblest challenges — that OF bringing hOpe tO the unnOticed saFari FrOntiers OF malaWi in aFrica.

A landlocked mass, Malawi is a developing country in southeastern Africa, with a very different climate. The country’s high altitude stands from 3,000 to 4,000 ft above sea level and stretches over 118 thousand sq kms of land. There, Pinoys encounter sharp climate changes. The cold season is from June to August and changes to an extremely hot summer come October. “My blanket cannot warm me during the coldest nights,” says one volunteer.

With a population of 14M, Malawi has its own unique culture compared to neighboring countries Tanzania, Mozambique and Zambia. English is widely used in this nation, where Filipinos have come to blend easily with Malawians who have about a dozen or so ethnic groups. It could only be surmised

that locals have grown familiar to the many Asians and Europeans in the cities around the country. Coming from the country known as the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’, most Malawians wear warm smiles and are very generous with welcome greetings such as “Takulandirani” or “Mwaliandilidwa” – the warmth of their culture resonating with the homegrown hospitality Filipinos are known for.

The Malawians have been struggling for development since obtaining independence from the UK in 1964 and becoming a member of the British Commonwealth.

Under a democratically elected President, the country enjoined the cooperation of the international community to help in the process of advancement. The US Peace

Malawians Are friendly people

PINOY PLANET 57

Corps started a year prior to the Malawi independence. Then, volunteers came from British-based Volunteer Service Overseas (VSO), the UN Volunteers (UNV) Program, French-based Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF). Others were from Japanese JICA, Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and SOS International. Volunteers have come from different fields of expertise including health, education, agriculture, environment, and entrepreneurships.

Among these groups are the skilled and knowledge-based Filipino professionals including medical doctors, dentists, nurses, medical technologists, college teachers, psychologists, nutritionists, etc. Most of them were assigned to medical schools, hospitals, colleges, and other government establishments.

Our kababayans have somehow become unsung “goodwill envoys for development” in a place where life is so simple.

On other fronts, Malawi has also attracted advocacy-oriented celebrities like pop star Madonna, who has intiated the foundation, ‘Raising Malawi’ that helped build hospitals, as well as schools with an educational campaign through a documentary entitled ‘I

am Because We Are’. Madonna first visited the country in 2007 and was later on granted honorary citizenship for her social projects.

Adjusting to the simple life Pinoy volunteers consider Malawi a very nice place. Dr. Loli, a Pinay UN Volunteer (UNV) says that “the cities here are nice — but people are very poor. Anyway, many international organizations are pouring in development work.” Another UN volunteer describes the capital city of Lilongwe as similar to London in that it’s “foggy and flowers are abloom. It is a charming place, especially in summer when everything is blooming.”

A place of natural beauty and the ‘simple life’ Malawi has seen the lives of Pinoy volunteers return back to basics. Especially since communication facilities like mobile and landline facilities, as well as e-mails and the internet, a convenience many of us in developing nations take for granted, are quite unreliable and expensive.

Despite the adjustment, Pinoys remain highspirited and are always excited waiting for new arrivals to join the growing Filipino community. As with other Filipinos, the

volunteers from UNV, VSO and other organizations also love getting together.

They usually congregate in flats for meals, swapping stories and experiences. Most Filipinos also enjoy going to the ukayukay market or shopping center together for new arrivals of branded items. “People here are fastidious dressers, kahit sa ‘ukay-ukay’ lang ang coats nila!” says a volunteer.

Pinoy volunteers are also, thankfully, able to indulge in some rest and recreation during their free time in Malawi. Apart from the usual domestic hobbies like computer gaming, gardening, indoor games, and raising pets, our kababayans also go for outdoor group activities like camping, safaris at Nyika, picnics at Livingstone beach, harvesting at tea plantation, cross country drives at Zambia, mountain trekking at Mulanje and many more.

The influx of Filipinos in Malawi, which has recently seen the arrival of a hundred Pinoys in Karonga Uranium Mining with SOS International in addition to the already existing 45 to 60 Filipinos there, helps the Pinoy community strengthen

58 PINOY PLANET

Left: Dr. Gian harvesting tea at tea plantation with a Malawian Bottom: Get-together at Dr. Loli’s flat

their traditions and culture. For instance, during the last Philippine Independence Day, Filipinos particularly in Lilongwe celebrated by having a “reflect-a-bike” project within the community. “Naglagay kami ng reflectorized sticker sa mga bike dito kasi pag gabi, mahirap silang makita, para maiwasan ang aksidente,” says a volunteer.

Facing great occupational health risks But all is not easy and simple for these volunteers, as working in Malawi involves some occupational health risks. Malaria is endemic even in the city. For safety, mosquito nets are indispensable. Some of the preventive health measures involve propylaxis like vaccines wherein shots are better taken prior to the African journey. For volunteers of VSO, vaccines are available at accredited clinics. Otherwise, Pinoys resort to other options. “In view of the 6-hour time difference from Philippines, at first naguluhan kami sa paginom ng doxycycline,” says a volunteer. But malaria pills have side effects, so they resort to alternative topical medications like mosquito repellants and linements acquired from home.

There are other preventive health measures which are a must for the volunteers like vaccines for influenza, for anti-rabies, antitetanus and hepatitis A and B. Here, the volunteers are often anxious that their organizations’ have certified clinics and that the vaccines and medications are available at the time they are needed.

What is reassuring though is the presence of Filipino doctors; one of whom has been

with the government’s Kamuzu Hospital for the last 20 years. His wealth of experience in overcoming not only occupational health risks, but challenges on day-to-day life in Malawi, proves useful to most kababayans who seek him out for tips on coping.

Contributing to a country’s development To maximize their stint in Africa, some of the Pinoy volunteers have taken assignments from various organizations from VSO to MSF then to UNV. With their efforts, they have helped achieve the socio-economic goals of the host country particularly on health and the economy.

Dr Loli said, “I took an assignment in Malawi with a government’s small business project of the UN Development Program (UNDP). The job attracted me because it had a different thrust that brokered smallmedium enterprises with an institution.”

She adds that her work is “exciting for me as a volunteer as I have been able to help in the capacity building of the Malawians.”

One Filipino doctor, Dr Muyco, who started as a UNV has taken up the real challenge of development. Dr Muyco has been practicing in Malawi for 20 years and heads the surgical department of the government Kamuzu Hospital.

Dr Gian, while teaching at the Malawi Colleges of Health and Science has proposed for a dental department. He is also trying to organize professional groups. “I am trying to help organize a dental therapist association because they have a dental association already with few active dentists’ as core

members from Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Sierra Leone,” says Gian. “About 200 dental therapists in Malawi are waiting to be organized.” As VSO Dentist, the Pinoy volunteer teaches second and third year students. He also performs as technical adviser and as examination proctor. He renders peer support to VSO doctors in cities like Thyolo.

These are but a few examples of the excellent contribution Filipino volunteers are rendering the country of Malawi.

Through the grapevine, there was news of NGO recruitment for volunteers from Manila in Hong Kong. Some 300 doctors were said to be needed. Presently there are only about 40 UNV doctors.

But knowing the challenging conditions in Malawi, prospective volunteers are expected to ask NGOs for a fair update in their programs to provide decent working and living conditions, as well as social protection. They may perhaps look for a self-regulating volunteer market duly authorized by participating governments in a program for technical cooperation among developing countries.

It would also be of paramount importance to provide a reintegration process for these volunteers when they eventually return to the home country.

Volunteers have high expectations in being able to apply the knowledge gained from Malawi back to the homeland. Because if our noble kababayans have survived the great challenges of bringing hope to a developing country like Malawi, certainly, they too could face even greater challenges and bring greater hopes to their beloved Philippines.

60 COMMUNITY

Filipino Computer Club New Training Season

The Filipino Computer Club (FCC) in Dubai and the Northern Emirates headed by Engineer Cherry Pye Torres is spearheading, yet again, another run of its very successful tuition-free computer training courses and workshops starting the 10th of October. The program which will run for 10 straight weeks is organized under the auspices of the Philippine Consulate General, Philippine Overseas Labor Office and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.

“The virtually free computer training program that we are offering is part of the Philippine government’s continuing efforts to educate our countrymen about the basics of popular computer applications, which they can use at home and at work,” Torres said. “We are pursuing this to train our countrymen with needed computer knowledge and skills currently in demand in the job market,” she said.

Word, Excel, PowerPoint & Access, Web Development: HTML Coding, Flash Animation and Adobe Photoshop, Networking: Essentials and Infrastructure, Hardware: PC Configuration, PC Assembly and Practical Networking, as well as Personal Development: Speech Craft and Toastmasters meetings.

The program consists of lectures, numerous hands-on and homework activities, which are designed to help participants apply what they have learned from the lectures. Advanced subjects like networking, Flash Animation, etc. are also offered to FCC members. Annual FCC membership fee is only AED 100.

Classes, facilitated by professional trainers, will be held in two venues in Dubai where sessions will be conducted every Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Interested applicants may register online at www.ofwzone.com.

Training is open to all Filipinos in UAE aged 13 years old and above For further info, contact: Eng. Milo Torres - Chairman: Professional and the program module includes computer application basics like Development Committee, Tel: 04 3676748, mobile: 050 4961650, - introduction to I.T.: Basic Computer for Beginners, MS Office: e-mail: admin@fccdubai.com, web: www.fccdubai.com

7th Nationwide Environmental Photography Contest Lightform International Filipino Photographers Guild (LIFPG) has recently opened registration for its 7th Annual Environmental Photo Competition – with the theme “Start today… to save tomorrow.”

the UAE regardless of nationality and age. Participants may submit as many entries as possible in either film or digital format.

Photographs must be your own and have not been sold to a third party or used for any commercial purpose. All entries should be taken within the UAE only. Entry prints and CDs are non-returnable and will remain the property of LIFPG. Images considered by the committee to be excessively controversial, profane, or violent will not be accepted for judging. Application forms are available at all JK National Stores and Giordano Fashions shops across the UAE and can also be downloaded from the guilds’ website at www. lightform.ae

The annual contest-exhibit, which started in 2002, is a unique photography competition in the country and part of Dubai Municipality’s Environmental Awareness Campaign in November held in conjunction with the global ‘Clean Up the World’ drive.

Organized by LIFPG under the auspices of the Philippine Embassy/ Consulate General of Dubai, the project was conceptualized to promote the protection and preservation of the UAEs environment and to support the worldwide call for environmental awareness, Entries will be accepted until the 31st October 2008 and the through the art of photography. awarding of winners will be held at the Sheraton Hotel Deira LIFPG President Myrna Rebulanan-Anderson is confident that on the 28th November 2008. Cash prizes, gift vouchers, and this year’s competition will exceed last year’s record number of trophies worth over DHS16,000 await this year’s winners, with the entries. ‘’Last year’s competition attracted a wide range of entrants competition supported by Canon Middle East, JK National Stores, from amateurs and student photographers. They all had a great Dubai Duty Free, Giordano Fashion, Grapheast, Western Union, experience! We are sure most of them will join again. Of course, Advanced Media Imaging and MK Trading. we are expecting a lot of first time entrants,’’ Anderson says.

For further information, contact Myrna Anderson at mobile: 050 The contest is open to all amateur photographers residing in 765-4343.

COMMUNITY 61

Air Miles Rugby Tour Project for Phil. Orphans

Air Miles, the region’s leading multi-participant loyalty programme, together with six UAE companies, has brought smiles to the faces of children from Tuloy Foundation and Bahay Bata Orphanage in the Philippines.

participate in our corporate social responsibility initiatives and in this case give hope to orphaned children,” said Dave Battiston, Chief Executive Officer of Air Miles Middle East. “We are glad the event achieved such a positive response, and we’re thrilled by how enthusiastically the sponsors supported our goal of raising funds With the ‘88’ Making a Difference Tour, Air Miles successfully for this very worthy cause.” achieved cash donations of more than AED10,000 from a sponsored dinner during the tour. Additionally, a Touch Rugby Other sponsors for the charity events were Sentinel and Middle Tournament was held to generate donations for the orphanage for East Fitness Professional (Mefitpro). Sporting equipment packages which 88 V Blacks was hailed champion. of new Adidas touch tops, rugby balls, cones and sporting bags courtesy of Adidas were also provided to both orphanages by “Air Miles is very dedicated to improving the lives of less fortunate Mefitpro. children around the world. We always encourage our partners to

Scouts Royale Brotherhood UAE International service fraternity Scouts Royale Brotherhood UAE Council (SRB UAEC) – originally founded in 1975 in San Sebastian College Recto Manila, has recently celebrated their anniversary marking 33 years of unbroken circle of brotherhood. The event was graced by Consul Vicente Bandillo, who also headed the oath taking ceremony for the council’s new officers.

SRB UAEC was organized in 2006 in Dubai by Sis. Mhavic Viray with the help of Bros. Alden Guevarra and Jonas De Paz, as well as Interim President was Brod Ricky Purog. Since then, the council has been active in community service here in the emirates as well as in the Philippines.

For further info on SRB UAEC contact Mhavic Viray at 0507188460 or e-mail: srb_united_arab_emirates@yahoo.com, website: www.srb.lfs.org

62 COMMUNITY

Filipino Golfer’s Society Season’s Opener

Thirty six golfers braved the soaring heat to participate in the FILIPINO Golfers Society Season’s Opener 2008/2009 at Al Hamra Golf Club and Resorts on the 5th September 2008. The tournament was played in three division, Men’s Division A (up to HCP 18) & B (HCP 19 and above) and the Ladies.

While on the Ladies Division, the Nearest the Pin on Hole # 4 was won by Janice Williams and the Longest Drive on Hole #18 by Marlyn Radford.

The successful event was sponsored by ‘Successful Pinoy Ako’ Training Solutions and Publishing, lead by President and Founder, Oliver Set (9) won the Division A with a net score of 74, with 1 Ximo Ramos. gross birdie and 8 pars. Arnel Valencia (21) with 1 gross birdie and 4 pars, won the Division B with a net score of 72.While Janice The next tournament will be the FGS/DUBAL Match Play Competition on 10th October 2008 at DUBAL Golf Course.

Williams (12) won the Ladies Division on 78 net score.

Entry Fee is DHS 100 inclusive of prizes and meal. For further Consolation prizes, the Nearest Pin on Holes #4 & #15 was won information, contact Chairman Joseph Mogallos on 050-6406715,

by Arnel Valencia, the Men’s Longest Drive by Crispin Miravite. or e-mail felwin@eim.ae

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Maranao Community in the UAE

Filipino Muslims Iftar with the Filipino Press Club attended by a mixture of different tribes – Maranaos, Marano, Maguindanaos, Tausogs, Yakans, Iranons and Samals. The event was sponsored by the Philippine National Bank of the Philippines Middle East and South Africa Regional Office in Dubai, headed by its VicePresident and Regional Head, Amroussi Tillah Rasul.

The Maranao Community in United Arab Emirates (MCUAE) is a socio-civic organization, duly registered and recognized by the Philippine Consulate in Dubai, whose main objective is to achieve unity and promote the wellbeing of all Filipino Maranao Expatriates in the emirates as well as to preserve their cultural background and heritage.

The Maranaos, hailing from the Lanao Lake area of Central Mindanao, are one of the indigenous Filipino tribes well-known for their rich culture and history, especially in the field of visual arts, music, dance and literature. They are famous for their artworks, sophisticated weaving, wood and metal craft, as well as their epic literature – the most celebrated of which is the Darangen Epic, which was selected by UNESCO as a “masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity”.

The MCUAE was founded in November 2004 and now consists of 500 Maranaos living and working across the UAE. The group provides assistance to its members through seminars and training geared to develop their talents and also to guide and help new comers land jobs and eventually adjust to life in the country.

2008 Executive Officers: President - Sahron Roy Tamano, VP Internal Affairs - Ismael Maricor, External Affairs - Jamil Macarimbang, Secretary - Rosmiah Babao, Treasurer - Nannete Lamping, Auditor - Ashary Batawe, PRO - Norhaina Imam For more information on the organization, contact Pres. Sahron Roy Tamano at mobile no. 050 2739373.

Crèche

Nursery 1

Nursery 2

Nursery 3

Nursery 4

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64 FEATURE Top pic: Trinoma, Quezon City Bottom pic: Mall of Asia, Manila Opposite pic: fhdfhdfhfdhghgfg

A perspective in urban development

Bonifacio Global City Text and Photography by Victor D. Sollorano

Urban development in the philippines has come a long way from the malay settlement at the moUth of river pasig in the 16th centUry, led by rajas who controlled the flow of trade with the chinese to the inner settlements of lagUna de bae, to the spanish colonial center of intramUros and its pUeblos and arabales that spanned the 16th centUry to the 19th centUry, to today’s Ultra-modern city of makati.

The current hub of business, commerce and finance in the Philippines also plays host to half of the country’s unified stock exchange in the swankiest address known as Tower One & Exchange Plaza in the Ayala Triangle — that was an airstrip before World War II — bounded by Ayala Avenue, Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue. (The other half is in the Philippine Stock Exchange Center on Exchange Road in Ortigas Center, Pasig City.)

Before that, business, commerce and finance happened in the neighboring districts of

Quiapo, Escolta, Binondo and Sta Cruz in the city of Manila. That was from the 1950s to the 1960s, although they’ve always been there since before the Spanish era as in the case of Quiapo which got its name after the type of aquatic lily that abound in that part of Pasig river. Binondo was, and still is, the country’s definitive Chinatown and was home to the Manila Stock Exchange. Escolta was the posh ‘Fifth Avenue’ for more than half of 20th century Manila; and Sta Cruz was the entertainment and shopping district for locals.

Because the idea of urban settlement and its accompanying demographics is dynamic, a shift is always inevitable.

Makati managed to maintain its status as an upscale, mixed-use township, especially since the 80s, because the Ayala family — the third richest family in the Philippines whose wealth runs in the vicinity of billions of US dollars, according to Forbes magazine — espouses a religious adherence to development that employ innovative approaches to architecture and design of malls and living spaces that continue to attract that segment of urban dwellers with spending power.

FEATURE 65

Along the lines of dynamism and constant evolutionary cycles of life, however, Makati and Ortigas may have to relinquish their respective status in the current scheme of Philippine-style urbanism as the trading floors of the stock exchange moves out of their respective jurisdictions and into a single and truly unified bourse in Bonifacio Global City by 2010.

This ambitious 25.78-square kilometer urban development in Taguig City, east of Makati, is also known as The Fort for it was part and parcel of Fort Bonifacio, headquarters of the Philippine Army from 1949 to 1995.

Development is in full swing in Global City; the kind that costs mega money. So far, there is no landed housing available, and the highrise and low-rise units in Pacific Plaza and Serendra go for as high as $1 million, or more, to as low as $250,000, respectively. If you can still find an available unit, that is.

The concept of Global City revolves on a mixed-use urban center managed by the Bases Conversion Development Authority.

The authority’s partner in this undertaking is the Bonifacio Land Development Corp., a consortium led by Metro Pacific.

In 2003, Ayala Land Inc. and Evergreen Holdings Inc. of the Compos Group, led by industrialist Jose Y Campos, bought a controlling stake in Bonifacio Land from Metro Pacific.

Apart from Serendra and Pacific Plaza, the other residential condominiums in Global City include Essensa, Regent Parkway, Bonifacio Ridge, One McKinley Place, Penhurst Parkplace, Seibu Tower, Fairways Tower, Forbes Town, Fifth Avenue Place and The Icon Towers. Many others are under construction.

66 FEATURE

The British School Manila, Manila Japanese School, International School Manila and Chinese International School Manila now have their respective campuses in Global City. Also in the area are Summit School, Victory Leadership Institute, MGC-New Life Christian Academy and STI College Global City, as well as Enderun Colleges.

In the vicinities of Bonifacio High Street, The Fort Square and Fort Strip are trendy restaurants, bars, clubs, and retail outlets.

On the eastern fringe of Global City is Market! Market!, a shopping center owned and operated by Ayala Land.

the embassies of Singapore, UK and Korea.

In the last five years, pop-rock events held in Global City reflect the global nature of this place from the Black Parade world tour of My Chemical Romance, to the Beyoncé Experience of Beyoncé Knowles, to the Bonez Tour of Avril Lavigne and Simple Plan, to the Back to Basics Tour of Christina Aguilera, to the Charmbracelet World Tour of Mariah Carey, to the MTV Music Summit for HIV/AIDS, now a yearly event held at The Fort.

Banks and corporations that are currently located in Makati have also acquired properties in Taguig’s upscale center where they have committed to relocate their regional or national headquarters, such as The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corp. Those that are now up and running are Deutsche Bank, Sony and Sony Ericsson, and Lawson Philippine Solution and Service Center. Fujitsu Philippines Inc. also bought its own place in Global City.

About a year ago, Bonifacio High Street, a pedestrian lane bounded on both sides with world-class restaurants and stores, was practically empty, except for curious denizens that were only passing through and wanted to see what Global City was all about. The Fort Square and The Fort Strip was where it was all happening at night.

The nightclubs, bars and restaurants fill up, especially on weekends; and Friday nights were a special treat, like a tacit understanding among denizens of the night whose lives seem devoted to grove the night away and party on ‘till the break of day.

Construction is now on going for The St. Luke’s Medical Center and the Taguig Coliseum and Convention Center, as well as

These days the condos are fast filling up, and many from neighboring cities have discovered this new township that seems like

a hinterland oasis at the border of Taguig and Makati on the fringe of opulence that is residential Forbes Park; and if you’ve been to Tokyo’s Ginza district, you’d probably recognize similarities in the neatness of The Fort minus the sense of Japanese formality in the air.

Yes, this is the future and it is happening right now in Global City. After 600 years, we’ve come a long way from the mouth of the river Pasig to embrace this concept of urban planning and development that takes into consideration demography, population density and space allocation.

In a world where change is ever present, we have that unique opportunity in the continuing evolution of our kind to shape our destiny as urban dwellers in a spacetime continuum that we may open our eyes to a new morning gladly and thankful in a way for the chance to communicate with the creative innovations of our fellowmen to make life worthwhile and living not just bearable but truly magnificent as we allow today’s architecture, technology and thinking to impact our existence in the way we live and play.

Now, that smells like the future today.

The view from your regular Juan dela Cruz

What brings you happiness?

67

Usapang Kanto Compiled by Jonie Jose

Being independent gives me happiness.

Now I can decide for my own life, but not after asking my parents for advice.

Finding work here in Dubai is one thing I can be proud of and be happy about.

Now I have the means to plan my future accordingly.

ROCHELLE

There are a lot of things that bring me happiness in life. I appreciate every little thing that I come across. But now that I’m about to leave the bachelor life behind me, I find that it’s my fiancée that makes me feel complete which in return gives me happiness I’ve never felt before.

RYAN FERNANDEZ

For me, there should be no space for loneliness! It only shows how well we get along with others — or how we don’t. Being around my friends is enough to make me happy. But of course, to be with my loved one is more special. Having my significant other around puts me at ease.

SYKE DIONISIO

I am a fun-loving woman and happiness is built-in within my personality. But when I met my special someone, it added a different flavour to my happiness. I am now one of the happiest women for I’ll be exchanging vows with my fiancé soon.

SEFRALLINE

Being around my family gives me complete happiness. Also, thinking about being with the person who loves me completely brings me ultimate joy. He’s really the one who fills the emptiness inside of me.

MELYN DESAMPARADO

Enjoying a cup of coffee with my friends brings me pure bliss. In the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s such a welcome relief to just sit down, relax and catch up on each other’s lives over some good coffee.

CHRISTA PEREZ

Having proved to myself that I’m able to stand on my own feet brings me happiness. Unlike before, when I used to depend on my parents, I’m now earning on my own. Now, I can say that I am man enough, having overcome many challenges in life. Sending financial support to my parents also makes me feel good.

Somehow, in my own little way, I am able to repay my parents for molding me to be who I am now.

ROGINALD BALVERDE

Living away from home and struggling in a foreign land is difficult. So I used to hang around with my friends to get rid of boredom.

I also developed good relations with my colleagues since I am with them most of the time. Helping my parents back home to make both ends meet is one of the things I love doing the most - it gives me happiness that can only be described as extraordinary.

RUEL MANLOSOC

68 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.

What We Say… and Don’t (But Still Get to Say Anyway)

By Aby Yap

IT’S NOT ONLY WORDS BUT MORE THAN WORDS WHICH WE NEED TO TAKE ANYBODY’S HEART AWAY, SO GOES THE FAMOUS SONG LINE THAT WE COULD VERY WELL DEDICATE TO OUR VERY OWN PINOY LINGO. SOMETHING WHICH, I’M SURE, BOYZONE AND EXTREME WOULDN’T MIND TOO MUCH. AFTER ALL, IT’S (BESIDES FREE PLUGGING) THOSE COMPLETELY BAFFLING BUT OH-SO-UNIQUE EXPRESSIONS WE UTTER THAT MOST FOREIGNERS FIND AMUSING. THOUGH THESE HABITS COULD SOMETIMES HAVE US MISTAKEN FOR E.T. DESCENDANTS, THERE ARE PEOPLE WHO FIND THESE PECULIARITIES SIMPLY ENDEARING. BECAUSE IN EVERY “PSSST” AND SMILE THAT WE PASS ON, THERE IS ALWAYS THAT WARM FILIPINO INVITATION — “WELCOME TO OUR WORLD! AND, GET TO KNOW US BETTER.” Pinoy Bokabulary 101 Hoy! (variations: Huuy! Oy! Uy!) Now, hold your anger. This multi-version power word does not intend to disgrace your persona; it is meant only to grab your attention. And it does, albeit negatively more often than not. This is rather a sad case since “Hoy” and its brothers are, in reality, just the Filipino version of the more sosyal “Hey.” But if knowing this still doesn’t change your opinion about “Hoy”, then you might want to settle for its subtle sibling, “Pssst”. Using either word yields nearly the same result — that is, every Pinoy in the room turning around to seek the (non)name caller — save a few who would be discreet about it. Those are the ones who don’t want to be labeled ‘cheap.’

Kumusta ka? (variation: Musta?)

The first step in striking a conversation with friends whom you haven’t seen for a while is to ask them how they are. For the uzis or usyoseras, it’s also the socially acceptable way of surveying the juicier portions of a Filipino’s life, without being too obvious about it. But be prepared for the answer of the year, one that must have undergone much thought, sweat, and maybe even a few tears — “ok

lang!” This automated response could very well signal a warm-up session for longer tsikahan. Or, if you’re lucky, this could be the Pinoy’s polite approach sparing you from a week-long Maalaala Mo Kaya drama marathon, in which case, you should be eternally in debt.

And speaking of courtesy, we’ve already been nominated for the Most Polite People in the Planet award. We have terms of respect for nearly everybody, including strangers whom we ask for directions — Pare, Brod, Boss, Bosing, Manong, Kuya, Miss, Manang, Ate, among others. And if that weren’t enough, we also have polite words to inject into each fragment and sentence — po, opo, ho, oho — like the way Ate Guy does po during her interviews po.

Already amazed with what we say? You haven’t even heard about how clever we are at sending and cracking secret codes, as well as making the language extra vibrant. Kwan, ‘Yung ano lang ‘yan.

Well, if you’re a kabayan reading this, you know exactly what I mean, di ba? And if you’re not, don’t fret just yet. Actually, learning basic Pinoy lingo isn’t so hard. It just takes practice, you know. Ay, parang the space is running out na pala. Sige, bahala na nga!

Ha? I give pretty good lessons, no? Nye, hindi naman.

FILIPINISMS 69

! ! ! t s Ps O.K. lang

Hoy! Opo

Actions Speak Louder They really do. Take, for instance, what every misbehaving Filipino child has to go through whenever ‘doting’ parents, specially mothers, switch to the “makuha ka sa tingin mode”. Those burning eyes can instantly melt a mountain of cement, and could probably turn even Damien of the Omen into a sweet, little cherub.

This brand of discipline must be the reason why pagmamano, raising an elder’s hand to one’s forehead, is still the fashion when giving respect to and/or asking aguinaldo from our grandparents and godparents. For kumares (and donyas), we usually show our affection through beso beso, characterized by touching or kissing both cheeks. Otherwise, kissing one cheek or hugging lightly is good enough, particularly for the younger generation of Filipinas.

For our males, nodding the head or raising the eyebrows in a macho style, to greet somebody is perfectly fine. If they happen to have an FPJ-ERAP level of relationship, however, patting each other’s back or putting an arm on the other’s shoulder isn’t altogether uncommon. Contrary to popular belief, Pinoy men have feelings too!

And yes, we smile a lot. We smile when asking questions. We smile when giving answers. And if we don’t know the answers, we scratch our heads, and just smile. We smile shyly and more often than usual (yes, we are capable of smiling some more) when flirting.

And sometimes, we even smile for no reason at all. Definitely not because of some drug, but maybe because we’re just born happy.

And, we’re only talking about smiling and what the mouth can do — imagine how the other parts of our body can do the talking for us. Yeah, Ursula, body language.

If you ask us for directions, we’d point it to you with puckered lips.

If we want to ask for our restaurant bill, we’d draw a rectangle in the air with our hands. If you want to know how at ease we are hanging out with you, wait till we ‘Indian-sit’ on the floor, elbows resting on the knees and hands cupping the cheeks, while listening intently to your stories. We could also do that on the dining chair as we share a sumptuous meal, but only if you allow. Or else, we’d have to content ourselves with just a foot up on the chair. Think we’re too kapalmuks (or thick-faced) for a houseguest?

Truth is, we wouldn’t want to bother you — ever. So if we need to pass between you and the TV screen you’re so glued to, we’d bend as low as we could and clasp our hands together as we walk apologetically, murmuring “excuse me, excuse me.” Believe me.

We also do it inside movie theatres where people wouldn’t even recognize us in the dark. That’s pretty much how polite we Pinoys can get. Just look around, and you can easily see any of these for yourself.

70 FILIPINISMS

The Annie B (Batobalani) Chronicles The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai.

Photography by Mariyah Gaspacho

A Nega-Star is Born!

Bata pa lang ako, maaga ko nang natutunan na ang buhay ay isang pelikula.

Sa pelikula, may bida at kontravida – at para happy ang ending, dapat manalo ang bida sa ending ng istorya. In one of his movies - Da King, Fernando Poe, Jr. - died at the end of the movie. OMG! Nagkagulo sa loob ng sinehan, as in, riot kung riot - the audience threw things at the movie screen, destroyed the theatre seats and stopped other moviegoers from watching the movie. Ang harsh anoh? Eh kasi nga dapat happy ending. Magagalit talaga ang masa kapag nagtagumpay si Paquito Diaz habang nagdurusa si FPJ. Sa buhay kong pelikula, syempre ako ang bida. Not only do I have the qualities of a leading lady, punung-puno rin ng drama, aksyon, comedy at musicals ang buhay ko – pampelikula talaga! At syempre kung si Sharon Cuneta eh may Cherie Gil, si Judy Ann Santos ay may Gladys Reyes, si Dyesebel ay may Betty, ako naman ay may Leonie. Yes, si Leonora – ang kontravida sa buhay ko.

Panalo gumanap ng role nya bilang kontravida si Leonie – madalas syang nagtatagumpay at patalikod na humahalakhak habang ako’y napapahiya, sumasabit at aping-api – at lahat ng iyon ay dahil sa kagagawan nya. Madalas iniiwasan ko sya, ngunit sadya yatang mapagbiro ang tadhana at lagi kaming pinagtatagpo – siguro talagang pang box-office hit ang casting namin.

Para kay Leonie, lahat ng hindi katulad nya ay masama at dapat mawala sa landas nya. Lumaki syang role model ang sarili nya at asus, kaya sya tuloy nagkaganyan – dahil hindi nya alam na kapag model ay dapat maganda ka.

Hindi mascot.

The moment she first layered her eyes on me – sa Starbucks yun six months ago - she was introduced to me by Juliet, my co-carlift mate and her officemate. I told them I was looking for a new company and that I would love to work for their fashion company. Aba, itong si Leonie, without bottling her islands, told me ba naman, “I don’t think you can qualify in fashion…” Sabi ba namaaaaaaan?!!! Eh sino sya para magsabi noon eh 4’10” lang ang height nya at 44” ang waistline nya noh? I compaused myself. “Eto naman, hindi naman mannequin ang a-applyan ko sa inyo eh. Hihihihi”, kunwari pa-sweet pa rin ako. “Miski na! We only hire people with impeccable fashion sense.” Sabi ba

namaaaaaannnn?!!!! Kapal ng fez nitong lait-laitin ako eh i-tease mo lang ang buhok nya mapagkakamalan na syang troll noh? Anyway, dinedma ko noon ang experience na yon. Kay Juliet ko ipinasa ang CV ko. After 3 days, I got a call from their HR telling me I have an interview with them. Dizzizzit!!! Pasok sa banga!

During the interview, I was so confident and was able to imfresh the bosses. If I only took Leonie’s words seriously, malamang bumagsak ako sa interview sa kaka-shake, rattle and roll ko. Think positive! Yan ang sinabi ko sa sarili ko. And it worked for me. Khalas! Paglabas ko ng interview room, nakasalubong ko na naman si Leonie. Ay, inunahan ko na ang bruha, “Congratulate me, I past the interview!”, pagmamalaki ko sa kanya. “Don’t count your chickens until they’re hats! Madami pang ibang ini-interview…” tapal nya sa akin.“No, my hat is made from ostrich feathers, not chickens!” hirit ko nga. Noon pa man halatang-halata nang mainit ang dugo nya sa akin. Ewan ko ba. Wala naman akong ginagawang masama sa kanya. Lahat naman ng mga kabayan dito sa office eh kasundo ko.

Given na yon di ba? Na dapat pakisamahan mo ang mga kababayan mo. Ang magtulungan kayo at magkaisa. Eh itong si Leonie, Day One pa lang isa na syang pesteng ahem sa buhay ko. Yung tipo bang ang kati-kati na ang sarap sarap kamutin nang kamutin hanggang sa mag-pantal ang balat mo.

First week ko pa lang sa trabaho noon feel na feel ko kasi tuwang tuwa sa akin ang boss ko at yung ibang lahing officemates namin. Syempre naaaliw sila sa mga outfits ko at mga dancing skills. Aba, nuong makaraang weekend eh may kumakalat nang tsismis sa buong office na dati raw akong GRO sa isang cabaret sa Pasay. OMG!!! Isa itong malaking kasinungalingan! After lunch ay napag-alaman ko mula sa aming receptionist na kay Leonie nagmula ang tsismis na iyon. I compronted her about it kasi ayokong pahabain pa ang issue at magtanim pa ng eel feelings sa kanya. I did it in the mostest nicest sweetest way.

“Hi Leonie…”

“Anong kailangan mo?” (sungit!)

“Bakit mo naman ako pinagtri-tripan? Sabi nila ikaw daw ang nagsimula ng chismis dito sa office na dati akong GRO sa Pasay….Ikaw naman mahilig ka palang magpatawa… ahihihi!” sabi ko.

FILIPINISMS 71

Matapos ang ilang linggo, when at least I didn’t expected it, nag-text sa akin ang ilang friends ko. Ano ba daw ang mga pinag-gagawa ko sa buhay ko? Hindi ko sila maintindihan hanggang sa sinabi nila na buksan ko ang Friendster account ko. OMG!!! Nagulat ako sa kahihiyan na mga nakasulat sa aking sariling Friendster account. Obviously, may nag-sabotahe nito na hindi ko alam. Nagmukha akong lukaret at babaeng mumurahin sa mga nakasulat sa aking profile – habang ang aking user pic ay may nag-Photoshop at nilagyan ako ng bigote. OMG!!! Ano na lang ang mukhang ihaharap ko sa 417 Friendster friends ko? Ano na lang ang iisipin ng iba pang mga gusto at may balak i-invite ako to be their Friendster friends? Katapusan na yata ng social networking career ko itu…..

“Ah hindi ako nagpapatawa. Sabi ko mukha kang GRO kung manamit - hindi ko sinabing GRO ka.” taas kilay na sambit ni Leonie.

“Uy, ito naman, porque’t sexy lang ang mga outfits ko mukha na ba akong GRO?”, sabay smile at konting tapik sa balikat nya.

“Hindi sexy ang mga damit mo, pang-Baclaran!” sabi ba naman.

“Ahahahaha! Hoy hindi ko sa Baclaran binibili ang mga outfits ko. Sa Outlet Mall naman kaya? Madaming good finds doon at murang mura lang! Try mo.”

Smile pa rin ako (am plastic ko!)

“Ay hindi kasi ako namimili ng damit sa outlets eh – baka fake pa yang mga ‘yan katihin pa ako.” Sabi nya.

Juice ko! Tiniis ko ang lahat ng pambabalahura ni Leonie sa akin. Miski madaming beses ay gusto ko syang itulak sa hagdanan at lagyan ng patis ang kape nya eh pinipigilan ko ang sarili ko. I won’t scoop down to her level.

Excuse me, isa akong colehiyala hindi tulad nyang vocational course lang ang tinapos. Miyembro ng UAAP ang iskwelahan ko hindi katulad nya na wala man lang JS Prom na na-experience. Ayokong isa-isahin ang mga panlalait kay Leonie kasi baka may iba akong masaktan – sorry po kung may tinatamaan akong iba – pero ang point ko lang naman po ay hindi ako pinulot lang sa kangkungan para lait-laitin at apihin ng isang babae na wala nang ginawa sa buhay kundi tapakan ang mga sweet at inosenteng nilalang tulad ko.

Minsan, matapos kong makatanggap ng memo mula sa Management – binawalan na akong mag-tinda ng bagoong sa office kasi nga daw nasusulasok sila sa aroma ng aking paninda - alam nyo naman ang ibang lahi sensitive ang mga ilong sa mga exotic foods natin. Akala ko iyon na ang huli ng isyu na yon. Aba, aba, aba, kinabukasan ba naman ke-aga-aga eh humalimuyak sa bantot ang buong conference room dahil sa may nag-iwan ng bagoong na nakabukas ang takip ng overnight. Syempre ako ang pinagbintangan ng mga boss ko since ako yung alam nilang nag-e-enterpenyur noon. Hay naku, correct me if I’m wrong but I’m correct and not wrong, si Leonie na naman ang may kagagawan nito. True to my basic instincts, s’ya nga ang may pakana noon – sabi ng aming office boy. Halos malusaw ako sa hiya habang tinatalakan ako ng mga boss ko. Sabi ko sa sarili ko, “Never against! I will not take this sitting down but standing up for my self…..next time, I will be the one to have the loud laugh. Humanda ka, Leoning reyna ng sumpa at sama ng loob. Babangon ako’t dudurugin kita…….promis, next time!”

Bigla kong naisip, sino namang walang magawa sa buhay ang yuyurak ng aking puri at katauhan sa pamamagitan ng paglapastangan ng Friendster account ko? Nagbalik ang alala ko mula kagabi. Habang ina-add ko ang invitation ni Rupali - ang aming driver - to be his friend sa aking Friendster - eh biglang tinawag ako ng boss ko para sa dictation. Tumagal ang session na iyon kaya’t nang sumapit ang alas sais at dumating na ang carlift ko ay nakalimutan kong mag-log off sa aking Friendster account. Oo nga! Naiwan kong bukas at naka-expose sa madlang public ang aking computer!!! At tandang tanda ko na kaninang umaga ay nanggaling sa area ko si Leonie (sino pa ba ang lalapastangan sa Friendster ko kundi ang virus na ito!!!) at sabay inirapan ako nuong batiin ko sya ng good morning…..Aha! Wala talagang awa itong si Leonie. Lahat na lang hindi nya pinatawad…palibhasa wala syang ka-Friendster at ka-Fezbook. Sino ba namang matinong nilalang ang makikipagkaibigan sa kanya in the first place? Hay naku, this time I won’t be sweeter….Enough is enough already…dizzizit!!! Panahon na upang maghalo ang balat sa tinalupan! Lintek lang ang walang ganti at anghit. Annie B, prepare yourself for bottle! Tonight, we will have dinner in hell!!!

72 FILIPINISMS Sumugod ako sa pwesto ni Leonie – wala doon ang impakta! Nakatunog yata…

Hinalughog ko ang buong lobby, conference room pati na rin ang pantry pero wala doon ni anino ng demonyitang si Leonie. Aha! Ibig sabihin nasa CR sya!

Matatapos na ang lunch break noon kaya’t sigurado akong nagsisipilyo na sya. Baket, akala ba n’ya kapag natanggal lahat ng cavities nya eh gaganda s’ya??!! Ilusyunada!!!

Nagdilim ang paningin ko noong nasilayan kong nagmumumog sya. Habang bumubula kaliwa’t kanan ang mga pisngi nya ay doon ko naramdaman lahat ng sakit, pait at hinagpis na dinanas ko sa kamay ng halimaw na ito.

“Halimaaawww!!! Halimaaaawww ang babaeng ‘yan!!!” Narinig ko ang nanginginig at nag-ngingitngit na boses ni Mary Walter from the movie, “Tiyanak”. Tumayo lang ako sa likuran nya habang naka-nganga syang nagmumumog. Nakita na n’ya ako mula sa salamin pero dedma lang ang bruha. Nang tawagin ko ang pangalan n’ya ay inirapan pa ako. Dizzizzit! It’s the moment of truth….in the eye of the tiger!!!

Pagbuga n’ya ng tubig ay binatukan ko s’ya. Napadausdos s’ya sa salamin at nadinig kong malutong na nauntog ang noo n’ya. Sayang hindi nabasag ang salamin! Nang makarating sa kanya ang opening remarks ko ay ibinato n’ya sa akin ang cheapipay nyang toothbrush na nagkakahalaga ng Dhs 5 mula sa Daiso. Tumama ito sa ilong ko at nabasa ang aking blouse. Sinalubong ko s’ya ng mag-asawang sampal! Tapos mag-pinsan…tapos mag-kaklase!!! AlaFPJ!!!

akong lapastangin at bahiran ng putik! Akala n’ya siguro forever na lang ako magtitiis sa mga pagmamaldita n’ya ha? Porque’t nauna sya sa akin dito sa company ng 6 months eh feeling n’ya mas mataas ang rango n’ya kesa sa akin.

Tama na! Sobra na! Itigil na ang negativity! Imbes na tayong mga kabayan ang magtulungan eh bakit ba pilit nating hinihila pa-ibaba ang kapwa natin?

Inggit? Selos? Problema mo ‘yan! Hindi porque miserable ang buhay mo eh dapat lahat din ng nakapaligid sa ‘yo eh lumubog din sa putik. Huwag ganyan – hindi tayo aasenso kung ganyan ang ugali natin. Hindi lang sarili natin ang pinabababa natin sa mata ng ibang lahi kundi pati na rin ang bansa natin. Baka akalain ng ibang lahi eh lahat ng kabayan natin eh katulad ni Leonie, kawawa naman ang image at tourism natin. Kung wala kang masasabing maganda, mabuti pa ay itikom mo na lang ang bibig mo. If we cannot be happy for others, then we should be ashamed of ourselves. We should all help each other and show the world that we can make a difference without being negative – BOW! Kaya ikaw Leonie, magsumikap kaaaa!!! Walang mangyayari kung lagi kang negative sa buhay mo. Tingnan mo ako, tinatawanan ko lang ang problema.

Kasi alam ko na lahat ng problema ay may solusyon – all I have to do is to think positive. Pasasaan din ba’t lilipas din yan at bukas ay may bagong umaga na naman na sisikat at magbibigay pag-asa sa aking buhay. Kaya kung nais ninyong lumigaya sa buhay, just add me sa Friendster: anniebdxb@yahoo. com. Dizzizit!!!

“Satanas ka! Akala mo forever na akong magtitis sa mga pang-aapi mo ha?

Etong sa’yo!!! Mag-kakambal na tampal…..Whapaaaacckkk!!!” hirit ko nga.

Aba, hindi nagpatalbog si Kutonglupa! Hinablot ang buhok ko at shinampuhan ng walang shampoo ang buong mukha ko. Syempre gumanti ako – hinaltak ko din ang mala-balahibo ng mais n’yang buhok…halos mabitawan ko sa sobrang pandidiri – bukod sa dry na dry eh sobra pang lagkit ng buhok n’ya.

Halatang hindi s’ya nagco-conditioner at nagapapa-hot oil. Eewwww!!! Halos kalahating minuto din kaming naka-lock to each other’s hair nang biglang magsidatingan ang mga officemates namin sa CR. Ang mga hinayupak – imbes na awatin kami eh nagsipag-pustahan pa yata. Pero ang dinig ko ay sa akin sila pumupusta – na-booze lalo ang confidents ko!!! Gagantihan ko sana ng sungalngal si Leonie sa ilong nang bigla kaming paghiwalayin ng mga security guard. Sayang….hindi ko man lang nasikmuraan ang demonyang ‘yon.

Pareho kaming nanlilimahid at haggard nang mga sandaling ‘yon. Galit na galit si Leonie at walang tigil ang pagmumura – hindi ko lang maintindihan kasi Ilokano ang itinatalak n’ya – ako naman, naka-pamewang na lumakad pabalik sa aking cubicle. Pinatunayan ko sa kanya na magmula noong minutong iyon ay hindi na ako magpapa-api sa kanya. Hindi na n’ya muli

FILIPNISMS 73 (43) for more pay. If you simply want to while away the time waiting to board PAL (44) from NAIA (45), some OTY (46) could help. Though you wouldn’t receive extra salary, your boss might become very fond of you, extending your VL (47) and ignoring your SL (48) — you’ll never know!

To stay close to your partner even if you’re million miles away, why not maximize your PC (49) and CP (50)? Spend a lot of time emailing each other, chatting through YM (51), or sending SMS (52). This way, you’d be updated with all the PBB (53) happenings and even avoid LQ (54).

Pinoycronyms101

By Aby Yap

Do you think you’re Pinoy enough to unDerstanD our very own shortcut lingo? if you’re uP for the challenge, then answer this test. guess what each Pinoycronym stanDs for. wag kang kJ (1)!

Kabayang OFWs (2) and TNTs (3) as well, kumusta? When was the last time you returned to LuzViMinda (4)? Are you starting to miss EDSA’s (5) smoky breeze and umaarangkadang buses? Have you seen the pogi posters of BF (6) who painted the city pink? Do you even know that FPJ (7), Da King, and LT’s (8) Daboy have long been gone?

FYI (9), the BPO (10) trend has been helping the country a lot, giving a huge TF (11) to our countless new graduates. You could easily spot these call center, MT (12), and SEO (13) people hanging out at SB (14) during the ungodliest of times, sipping mocha frappes and puffing Marlboro Lights. Another benefit they enjoy is that they’re spared from the MRT (15) and LRT (16) rush hours. And they get to go shopping at SM (17) and DV (18) on weekdays when there’s nearly nobody in sight, which means stress-free gimik. They

could even HHWWPSSP (19) or engage in PDA (20) — pray it’s not LP (21) galore or FK (22) — with their BFs (23) or GFs (24), even BFFs (25), and sing aloud Regine’s new piece for which they fall victims to LSS (26) — and nobody would care, even without a DND (27) sign. Lucky RKs (28).

So, are you OK (29) there? Is the LDR (30) taking its toll on you and your SO (31)?

Working abroad can be such an MH (32) to TL (33)! And some people even think that you’re just being OA (34), when the greatest misery is to be an SMC (35) member. In fact, that’s even harder than being a DH (36) or OCW (37). Imagine, you’re not there to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries together in KFC (38) or EK (39), or even greet the love of your life a HB (40) or a HA (41) in person. Sniff. Don’t worry. You’d be back here soon for the greatest date of your lives at MOA (42). For now, just render OT

If you’re among the NBSB (55) girls, don’t feel OP (56). Never be a PB (57) just so you’d have a lover. Think you’re a QT (58), or even a VIP (59). Maybe, you have an SA (60) out there who’s dying to ask you out, but is just too torpe to initiate.

He probably needs a bottle of SMB (61) and a well of SS (62). Perhaps, he’s acting KSP (63) so you’d notice him, hoping that he’d eventually reach MU (64) with you. If you already know that he likes you, don’t be LU (65) though. Issuing a PR (66) that someone has a crush on you is a major TO (67). So is being a PG (68) if he brings you to a buffet dinner. Don’t be too obvious that all you’ve had eaten for the past month is GG (69), fried and paksiw. You might end up going to the CR (70) more often than you could handle. Don’t be a TH (71) sosyalera either. If you happen to loathe the guy because he has garbagelike BO (72) or because he’s an SM (73)— much worse than a DOM (74)—then just ignore him. On the other hand, if you like him back, show some gratitude even if it’s a little too late. A TY (75) wouldn’t hurt.

Remember, a DR (76) is better than NR (77) at all. Who knows, a happy ending might be waiting through a romantic SM (78)!

We know you’d rather be where we are now (wag mag-deny!) — despite the several anti-GMA (79) rallies on the streets. You might have dreamt of joining the KMU (80), NPA (81) even. But for now, settle for what you see on ABS-CBN (82) and GMA7 (83) news or read on PDI (84). Don’t tire yourself out; avoid becoming an OC (85) worker. Long gone were your days as a GC (86) and aspiring SK (87) student, perpetually contesting the test scores you got from all your GE (88) classes — including HE (89) and MAPE (90), even ROTC (91). Start learning how to relax.

Watch DVDs (92) of your favorite Pinoy

74 FILIPINISMS stars. For housekeeping tips, try QTV (93).

Perform like a rock star with MTV (94).

Learn ballroom dancing with a DI (95).

Share thoughts with Pinoys around the world through PEX (96). Finally, stay away from BI (97) people, and you’d be back here still alive and healthy.

XS (98): If you want to send us something, trust LBC (99). Better yet, let’s just have a grand feast as soon as you’re here. Don’t worry, KKB (100).

ANSWERS: (1) KJ – Kill Joy (2) OFW – Overseas Filipino Worker (3) TNT – Tago nang Tago (4) LuzViMinda – Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao (5) EDSA – Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (6) BF – Bayani Fernando (7) FPJ – Fernando Poe Jr. (8) LT – Lorna Tolentino (9) FYI – For Your Information (10) BPO – Business Process Outsourcing (11) TF – Talent Fee (12) MT – Medical Transcription (13) SEO – Search Engine Optimization (14) SB – Starbucks (15) MRT – Metro Rail Transit (16) LRT – Light Rail Transit (17) SM – Shoe Mart (18) DV – Divisoria (19) HHWWPSSP – Holding Hands While Walking, may pa-Sway-Sway pa (20) PDA – Public Display of Affection (21) LP – Laplapan (22) FK – French Kiss (23) BF – Boyfriend (24) GF – Girlfriend (25) BFF – Best Friend Forever (26) LSS – Last Song Syndrome (27) DND – Do Not Disturb (28) RK – Rich Kid (29) OK – Okay (30) LDR – Long-Distance Relationship (31) SO – Significant Other (32) MH – Malaking Hadlang (33) TL – True Love (34) OA – Overacting (35) SMC – Samahang Malalamig ang Christmas (36) DH – Domestic Helper (37) OCW – Overseas Contract Worker (38) KFC – Kentucky Fried Chicken (39) EK – Enchanted Kingdom (40) HB – Happy Birthday (41) HA – Happy Anniversary (42) MOA – Mall of Asia

(43) OT – Overtime (44) PAL – Philippine Airlines (45) NAIA – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (46) OTY – Overtime Thank You (47) VL – Vacation Leave (48) SL – Sick Leave (49) PC – Personal Computer (50) CP – Cell Phone (51) YM – Yahoo Messenger (52) SMS – Short Message Service (53) PBB – Pinoy Big Brother (54) LQ – Lovers’ Quarrel (55) NBSB – No Boyfriend Since Birth (56) OP – Out of Place (57) PB – Panakip-Butas (58) QT – Cute (59) VIP – Very Important Person (60) SA – Secret Admirer (61) SMB – San Miguel Beer (62) SS – Sariling Sikap (63) KSP – Kulang sa Pansin (64) MU – Mutual Understanding/ Mag-un (65) LU – Laki-Ulo (66) PR – Press Release (67) TO – Turn-off (68) PG – Patay-Gutom (69) GG – Galunggong (70) CR – Comfort Room (71) TH – Trying Hard

(72) BO – Body Odor/ Bad Odor (73) SM – Simpleng Manyak (74) DOM – Dirty Old Man (75) TY - Thank You (76) DR – Delayed Reaction (77) NR – No Reaction (78) SM – Secret Marriage (79) GMA – Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (80 KMU – Kilusang Mayo Uno (81) NPA – National People’s Army (82) ABS-CBN – Alto Broadcasting Systems-Chronicle Broadcasting Network (83) GMA-7 – Global Media Arts (84 PDI – Philippine Daily Inquirer (85) OC – Obsessive-compulsive (86) GC – Grade-conscious (87) SK – Sangguniang Kabataan (88) GE – General Education (89) HE – Home Economics (90) MAPE – Music, Arts, Physical Education (91) ROTC – Reserve Officer Training Corps (92) DVD – Digital Video Disc (93) QTV – Quality Television (94) MTV – Music Television (95) DI – Dance Instructor (96) PEX – Pinoy Exchange (97) BI – Bad Influence (98) XS – Excess (99) LBC – Luzon Brokerage Corporation (100) KKB – Kanya-kanyang Bayad

Perfect 100 – Wow, were you the one who created the test?

85 and above – Mabuhay, you’re indeed a true-blooded Pinoy!

75 and above – Passably kabayan. Well-done!

51 – 74 – You could be one of us, but you need to brush up on your Pinoycronyms 101.

50 and below – Are you sure you know Gat JPR?

ENTERTAINMENT 75

Eraserheads: The Reunion

By KC M. Abalos

AFTER NEARLY A DECADE OF BEING APART, ELY BUENDIA, MARKUS ADORO, BUDDY ZABALA AND RAIMUND MARASIGAN, COLLECTIVELY KNOWN AS THE ERASERHEADS, FINALLY GOT BACK TOGETHER FOR ONE NIGHT OF MUSIC AND MEMORIES. NEARLY THIRTY THOUSAND PEOPLE FLOCKED TO THE FORT, OPEN GROUNDS LAST AUGUST 30 TO WITNESS THE LONG-AWAITED REUNION OF THE GROUP THAT STARTED THE BAND REVOLUTION IN THE 90’S.

Ever since the ‘Heads launched its first album back in 1992 entitled ‘Ultraelectromagneticpop’, they’ve captured the meticulous musical taste of the Filipino people with hits such as ‘Pare Ko’, ‘Toyang’ and ‘Maling Akala’. Undeniably rock and roll but with a hint of the Filipino folksiness that made everyone listen, the four then-students from the University of the Philippines became instant stars. Dropping out from college did not stop them from churning out one hit after another. After more than ten albums, they were rewarded with countless Platinum record sales, the first and only Filipino band to win the MTV Viewer’s Choice Award for Asia, and the unending devotion of a generation of Pinoys who grew up listening to their sounds.

Stick-to-Heads Happy To the non-fan, such devotion may have to be explained. And yours truly is only too happy to oblige. Forgive the gush. If you ask why we love the group, there are many answers people can give you. We can talk about their technical musicality (although when they first started out — Marcus, the lead

guitarist was unashamedly and obviously all over the place). We can talk about their showmanship (even though lead vocalist Ely often couldn’t belt out the high notes to the songs he himself wrote). The reason must be deeper than the obvious. In my studies, that is, in my highly satisfying conversations with fellow fans, most will tell you the same thing — the band provided them the soundtrack to their lives.

Suffering from unrequited love? Cry in your room, your very own “seldang maginaw” with ‘Kailan’ playing on the background. Trying to comfort a friend or a loved one? Make them listen to ‘Huwag Kang Matakot’. Had an ex who became a famous model? There’s ‘Magasin’ for you.

Yes, it cannot be denied that the four of them made beautiful music together, the lyrics — always original and speaking of stories both personal and universally appealing at the same time.

So for our generation, the ones who lived their tumultuous teenage lives between the reign of The Dawn in the 80s and Bamboo in 2000, the real heartbreak came when Ely decided to call it quits.

Aloha..... Milkyway The whole story of why they disbanded is still a mystery. Even up to now, all the members of the band keep mum about the real reasons. Real fans know of its depth though.

The semi-underground world of bands is small enough for people to actually notice tiny seemingly insignificant things. Like the way Raimund Marasigan’s group Sandwich almost never comes before or after Ely’s band, Pupil during gigs. Except for that one time at Metro Bar, around April 2007, when Rico Blanco invited the two bands to perform with Rivermaya. Nobody knew then that this was Rico’s way of saying goodbye to his own band too. Or how Raimund — known as the Paul McCartney of the Eraserheads — was noticeably absent during a benefit concert held by the local bands for Ely when he had his first heart attack.

It seems that the rift was irreconcilable. So fans contented themselves with listening to Pupil, Sandwich, The Dawn — when Buddy joined the legendary group — and Markus’

76 ENTERTAINMENT

new band, aptly named, Markus Highway.

A tribute album was also released last 2005, with the local bands singing their own version of their favorite Eraserheads tunes.

Though the band members shone on their own, it was never the same. So when whispers of a reunion concert started floating around the internet, everyone breathlessly awaited any scrap of news or gossip. A link was sent via email assuring everyone that this was the only way to get tickets, everyone obediently filled it up. It was reported that up to 20 million pesos were offered to the members of the band just to appear together onstage.

The Circus Up until three days before the event, there were no tickets. No posters. Nothing.

But individually, Ely, Raimund, Markus and Buddy were hunted by the media.

Their short interviews confirmed the fans’ seemingly unfulfillable dream. Yes, they are rehearsing for a reunion concert. Yes, they are busy preparing their repertoire. Yes, they do practice in the same room and no one has been punching anyone... yet.

But the question everyone was asking was — where do we get the tickets? Fans didn’t care how much it is. The reader has to remember that over a decade has passed since the Eraserheads disbanded. The former penniless high school and college students who listened with rapt attention to their music are now managers, supervisors, and walking success stories themselves. Just give us the Eraserheads. Please just us one more chance to hear them play and we can go on in our humdrum lives.

August 27: Tickets were finally being distributed. It is happening!

August 28: Sad news, Ely Buendia’s mother passed away.

So, was the show on? Everyone mourned

with Ely and would have understood if he backed out. On a last minute decision, though, he decided that that the show must go on.

Fruitcake for Everybody More than thirty thousand tickets sold in a span of three days — with no outward advertising, almost no publicity, except for the power of the word of mouth from hopeful fans. That must be some kind of record. Anticipation was high. On the way to The Fort, there was a long line for the bus, a friend jokingly said, “Dito tayo, waiting for a bus on a Saturday.” Again, a line from an Eraserheads song. No threats of rain, no claustrophobic crowds, not even the dark promise of having to use a Portalet will dampen anyone’s spirits.

There was a countdown on the big screen.

5, 4, 3, 2, 1...

Then the opening strum of Ely for Alapaap — the familiar strains conjured memories of our youth, of a bygone era when everything was simpler and despite the free spiritedness, there was a sense of purpose. Choked up and emotionally invested, the masses sang with them. Every word, every line, every ooh and ahh, as one crowd, we sang. How many times have we listened to this song? How many times have we wished we can hear it live once again?

Unlike other concerts where there is a need to fluff the show with gimmicks and a script, that night — it was all about the music.

Frontman Ely only said 4 or 5 lines the entire show. Raimund was banging with his drums with a happy fervor. Buddy was contentedly doing what he does best — cradling his bass.

Markus was all about the strings. Fifteen songs, straight through: Alapaap, Ligaya, Sembreak, Hey Jay, Harana, Fruitcake, Toyang, Kama Supra, Kailan, Huwag Kang Matakot, Kaliwete, With A Smile, Shake Yer Head, and Lightyears.

Heaven indeed, the audience needed a break. We were on an emotional high for the past hour. We gladly welcomed the 30 minute respite. While we sat on the rocky floor of the open grounds, we talked about what’s next. We have yet to hear the really big hits: Magasin and Pare Ko. What’s the last song? Ang Huling El Bimbo? A fan that night musingly said, “Ito na kaya ang pinaka-huling El Bimbo?”

He never got his answer that night. Because when the band returned, it was without their frontman. Instead, Ely’s sister addressed the crowd. “Thank you everyone for supporting the reunion of the Eraserheads. We, however, regret to inform you that due to my brother’s poor health, because of the emotional and physical stress that he has been experiencing, we apologize for cutting the concert short.

My brother had to be rushed to the hospital for medical attention.”

There were many ways to end the night — many songs to sweeten the one night only performance of the Eraserheads, but this was an unexpected shock. A minute of silent prayer was given to Ely Buendia by the thousands who were there. It was reported that he got emotional after the last song, Lightyear, which was a very emotional tune indeed.

Later that night, everyone breathed a sigh of relief when it was stated that the 37-year-old Eraserheads vocalist was in stable condition.

What a way to end the most anticipated night of the year, maybe even the decade.

All thirty thousand members of the audience were sympathetic and worried. Despite the unhappy conclusion, everyone said that the first set was more than worth the price, worth all the pushing in the crowds, and most especially, worth all of the waiting.

Raimund Marasigan in a thank you mail which he sent to the general public wrote, “I promise to give you another E-heads show as soon as possible.” We shall hold you to your promise Raims.

All books and CDs available at Fully Booked, Philippines, visit www.fullybookedonline.com

Reklamo Bitch For Change (2008) In 2005 fans of the local indie band scene were taken aback by the emergence of Reklamo, originally a fourpiece punk rock act (now a trio) made up of vocals, guitars, bass, drums, and a sax. Besides the fact that former sax player, Shereen Saiyed, looked great behind all that brass, and their vocalist/guitarist LC de Leon, dressed perpetually in all black, sporting a huge Vietnamese conical hat would sometimes whip out a banjo in lieu of his pink, paisley-riddled electric guitar for the sheer heck of it, Reklamo was a band that was well, different. Though that particular term is often loosely used to describe when no particular adjectives spring to mind, such is not the case for Reklamo, who has boldly gone where no local band has gone before—irreverence sans the typical—and in my opinion, tired—Pinoy slapstick gimmick.

The band underwent an almost complete lineup overhaul. Reincarnated, it consists of LC de Leon (vocals/guitars), his brother, Cicero (drums), and Miguel Dayanghirang (bass). Backed by a tough and capable manager, Amy Rosalyn, the band has made their bones in the industry by winning the 2007 WBOB (World Battle of the Bands) Philippine leg and will go on to represent the country in Singapore this year, their single “Pat’s Problem”—a ditty about LC’s indolent uncle—hit number one on NU 107.5 and the band went on to win the ‘In The Raw’ award for the station’s Rock Awards that same

HOT RELEASES 77

By Gabbie dela Rama-Talan

year. And just what is the secret of their success, you may ask? The answer goes no further than their moniker. Listen to their lyrics and even the tone of their music, which, for a lack of a perfect description is reminiscent of Les Claypool’s Primus, and you will hear a perpetual yet amusing musical griping, whining, and complaining just about anything and everything wrong with the world today. No surprise since LC has openly declared this as one of his favorite pastimes. So, naturally what does a band like Reklamo decide to call their debut LP? Something apt of course—Bitch for Change!

Forget the crystal case. The CD case is made of recycled cloth in a bright blue, Reklamo’s bold, red logo splashed in front, and contains 10 tracks, including their hit single ‘Pat’s Problem’ — the banjo version, ‘3 for 100’ which advocates consumer rights, and ‘Katas Ni Ungas’ a song about neglected canines, a cause which the band has taken to another level by becoming strong advocates for PAWS (Philippine Animal Welfare Society).

LC’s guitar wizardry in the classic rock aspect is evident in this album and though it is meant to get a little crazy, it is complemented by Dayanghirang’s consistent yet not unimaginative bass technique and Cicero’s progressive drum playing or should I say beating.

hear on this album (though I sincerely doubt it) but personally, listening to this was sort of emancipating.

Listening to songs about how shot up you are over a bad breakup, or how you’re in love with your significant other’s sibling, or even worse, how you’re going to “bang that ho” next door then shoot the crap out of her boyfriend, can get more than a little sickening and downright trite. It also gave me a sense of pride knowing that Pinoys were behind this album. It’s not just a question of singing for your supper or “buy our music.” It’s more like “I’ll sing because I have something to say,” and “if you don’t buy our music that’s fine because that isn’t the point anyway.”

The album in its entirety is a statement, from its cover design down to its music. You may not be into rock and roll. Heck you may even hate what you

I’ll take odd, different, strange, unique, or eccentric over plain, old bland and boring, any day. Now if only that sentiment would catch on…

a guitar while Armamento plays the flute and does back-up vocals.

Brave New Music

(Sa Pagdapo Ng Mariposa Original Motion Picture Sound Track) Various Artists Last May 21, independent film outfit Hubo Productions released Sa Pagdapo Ng Mariposa.

Suffice to say quite a number of filmgoers flocked to Robinson’s Galleria’s Indie Sine to catch this gaythemed flick. Among others, curiosity may have been the culprit because the original poster, which features, from behind, a naked man with a butterfly right over his posterior, received an X rating from the MTCRB. The film is basically about caregiver Carlitos Mariposa who is tasked to care for a paralyzed sepak takraw player called Agustin Vergeire. Carlitos, who is straight, finds himself falling in love with Agustin. The film evokes the all too human struggle of self-discovery despite the self’s unwillingness to recognize the truth, thus resulting in a maelstrom of anguish, confusion, and inevitable tragedy.

The soundtrack, entitled Brave New Music is made up of 10 tracks, three of which were from the movie Caregiver: ‘Let’s Play’ by Isabella (Kuh Ledesma’s promising offspring) featuring Keith Martin, ‘Caregiver’ by Area 5 and ‘Di Kita Iiwanan’ by Elin Jr. The soundtrack was perfectly suited to the film, building up and smoothing scenes over at the appropriate moments. And lending more credence

A formidable follow up to the Chillitees’ debut album ‘Extra Rice’ is ‘Espasoul’. True to form, the band delivers 10 tracks of pure, supple soul. Vocalist Uela Basco’s voice is effervescent, setting her apart from many of today’s soul vocalists with their gravel-like vocal affectations.

to the independent aspect of the film is the music, created by musicians who are, aptly enough, themselves independent. Besides ‘Caregiver’ the real standouts are ‘Shift’ Intolerant’s hauntingly heavy threnody; ‘Home’ a song that is both melancholy and hopeful, and taking the edge off is ‘Tara’ by The Rinka Collective, weightless and suitable to wandering whether it be in unknown territory or in your own head.

Chillitees Espasoul

Chillitees surfaced in 2001, brainchild of former Grace Nono and Bob Aves saxophonist Dan Gil and Ryan Armamento of the Sun Valley Crew. The duo began a series of songwriting experiments, which they ostensibly deemed successful because soon after, they became a full-fledged act made up of the gifted Uela Basco (vocals), Gino Cruz (vintage keys), Jon Jon Jose (bass), Jon Padilla (guitars), and currently Paolo Lim of Sound, substituting for drummer Tim de Ramos. Gil gave up his horn for

Though the album can be considered easy listening, there is present, a hint of mischief, as if the band were poking fun at their own talents, playing just for the heck of it, no artifice or calculation, yet performing with a skill and aptitude for the love of music.

The album as a whole is pleasant listening experience though the tracks ‘Skatetown’, ‘Gatas’, and ‘You Make Me Juana’ are slick and inventive, and in my opinion, are those that carry a definitive Chillitees stamp.

78 HOT RELEASES By Gabrielle de la Rama-Talan

Young Blood 3 Edited by Jorge V. Aruta and Ruel S. De Vera In 1994 the Philippine Daily Inquirer announced, “We want to know what the youth are thinking about. What are there thoughts on current issues? We welcome contributions from the twenty-something and below.”

And that is how the column Youngblood was conceived.

That it is widely read is evidenced by its existence today and in its steady and sure flow of contributions that has not shown any sign of wavering.

Young Blood 3, which is published by Anvil Publishing, is a compilation of over 50 essays—the best of six years (1999–2004) of Youngblood. In it you will find essays that range from a variety of topics: from the difficulty but not unwillingness to give up a vice in ‘That Smoke’

by Rico Cobcobo; that rodents are unpardonable no matter how conscientious or soft hearted one is in ‘Rats and Raves’ by Adelfo Cyrus Alanis; how one girl’s wish to find gay male friends became an unexpected reality, and everything she ever dreamed in ‘The Perfect Friend’

by Purple, and how one girl’s disillusionment with her

generation stems not from its penchant for hedonistic excess but from a lack of conviction, self-actualization, and a real interest in matters of true importance in ‘Degeneration’ by Florianne Ramirez.

The great thing about this book is that the pieces are brief enough to hold your interest, and the fluid text with which most are written. It is a truly pleasant read. The book provides reassurance that today’s youth don’t live in a bubble, but does not give a view of the world through rosetinted shades that hide apathetic eyes.

Whether you’re young or not, Young Blood 3 is perfect for a plane or bus ride or on a hammock at the beach with an ice-cold beer. Read them all in one go or savor each short yet packed piece. All that is needed is an open mind and a good sense of humor. Oh, and it would do the reader good to leave off the patronization.

Over a Cup of Ginger Tea: Conversations on the Literary Narratives of Filipino Women

By Cristina Pantoja Hidalgo For anyone who has ever been part of a book club, delving into the pages of Cristina Pantoja Hidalgo’s book Over a Cup of Ginger Tea, will give a strong sense of belonging—as if you are amongst friends discussing a good book over a steaming pot of tea or coffee while having in your midst, an exceptionally intelligent friend, perhaps a teacher or an unusually inquisitive student, or even an extremely well read tita.

You may even be momentarily brought back to your youth when a certain literary teacher in high school or especially college would poke and prod your entire class, hoping for some sign of genuine interest, be it one of concurrence or opposition.

In this slim volume, multi-awarded writer Cristina Pantoja Hidalgo presents a collection of literary essays that span the works of outstanding Filipina writers from Gilda Cordero Fernando (The Butcher, The Baker and

The Candlestick Maker) to National Artist Edith L. Tiempo (His Native Coast) to someone as contemporary as Tara FT Sering (Reconnaisance).

The book—published by the University of the Philippines Press—is sectioned into six chapters (not including the introduction) and tackles prevailing themes and styles of the Filipina writer. Especially fascinating is the chapter entitled “The American Nightmare” where Hidalgo Pantoja ruminates on the non-fiction works of authors who write about their experiences living in the United States, none of which reflect the general view that it is indeed the land of the fair, the free, and the wise, surprisingly.

Over a Cup of Ginger Tea is an invaluable guide for aficionados of local literature — male or female — and yet, it does not have the feel of a literary guide as it is written in such an amiable, almost friendly manner. Indeed, it does, as the author had hoped, invite interest and conversation.

I know What To Do Pinoy Success Handbook

by Jeffrey ‘Ximo’ Ramos So you want to be successful – but do you know what to do? Author Jeffrey Ximo Ramos unlocks the secrets to achievement in his substantial motivational tome ‘I Know What To Do’. Lifted from his personal learnings from the challenges and triumphs of living in the United Arad Emirates, the book is packed with useful tips and fundamental truths that can help you accomplish your dreams. It is divided into three main sections – How to be successful, how to maintain success and how not to get corrupted by success. With its words of wisdom, not to mention the writers’ interestingly casual style and wit, the book promises to be a veritable ‘success handbook’ one would eagerly be reaching for, from time to time.

Available in the UAE through Illustrado.

Please call 04-365 4543 to reserve your copy or e-mail info@illustrado.net

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