IMAGESASIA Volume 2 Number 4 2016 Second Quarter Special Edition Php 300.00 | US$13.50
the expressions of art, life and style
Gina Ronquillo
In Adversities, Beauty Blooms
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GINA RONQUILLO In Adversities, Beauty Blooms Photographed by HENRY FERRER
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ealize deeply that the present moment is all you have. Make the NOW the
primary focus of your life.” - Eckhart Tolle from the Power of Now Gina Ronquillo is a well known achiever in her field. She is one of the top performers for Eternal Plans Inc. for the past 15 years. Clearly, this sassy lady has a lot of stamina and drive. She also runs several other businesses on the side. She draws strength and inspiration from her three children. Her eldest daughter Carla is now an accomplished interior designer and is currently on sabbatical while raising her daughter. Though it is hard to believe that the youthful Gina is already a grandmother, it’s a role that she cherishes.
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. She also has a budding professional pilot in her son Elisce who is already a licensed Aeronautical Engineer and is about to enter Flight School. Her youngest child, son Brave, just graduated from secondary school and is about to commence his studies in architecture. Gina considers every moment valuable and enjoys precious moments spent with her fiance Willem and her three children. Gina is also a well travelled person who has been to so many places including New York, Amsterdam, Brussels, Phuket and Paris.
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Working hard for her family is something that Gina embraced at a young age. At a tender age, while she was still in school, Gina already worked part-time in order to put food on the table and to have money for school. She considers the desire to elevate the lives of her family members as what gave her the determination to work hard. It was a passion that would stay with her all of her life and it still gives her that fire and drive today, to excel in all that she does. It was this early experience that made her what she is now, a brave woman, who is not afraid to take on any challenge and prevail successfully in life. Gina believes that everything that happens for a reason. As a person who has risen above life’s adversities, Gina encourages others to never give up. Situations may not be good at times but trust that God has the perfect plan for one’s life.
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Locations: CANYON WOODS RESORT CLUB Laurel, Tagaytay CANYON COVE HOTEL & SPA Nasugbu, Batangas MAKATI SHANGRI-LA HOTEL
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Hair & Make-up: ED “SARAH” SUBOSA
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JULYAN HARRISON The Prince of Zambawood
J
ulyan Harrison, the prince of the famous resort hotel in the north, Zambawood, is making
waves in the net. When one sees an article or a blog about Zambawood or just a mere mention of it, one will surely see Julyan’s name and his story. Julyan is the son of the Rachel Harrison, the woman who dedicated Zambawood for him who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 2. Rachel built Zambawood for Julyan to find his purpose and enjoy his life to the fullest.
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IMAGESASIA 14 Zambawood became a happy home for Julyan and his family. It opened doors to an advocacy to provide a venue for people with special needs to nurture, build a community and discover their capabilities to support themselves. Now, at the age of 23, Julyan is working fulltime in his own farm in Zambawood. He proudly calls himself an artist, a cook, a surfer and a farmer, in that order. Zambawood is a social enterprise for an integrated community of adults living with autism. Zambawood supports Julyan’s farm. This haven gave peace to Julyan and his family and they want to share their lives to others and help empower adults with special needs. The Harrisons believe in creating opportunities and helping build meaningful lives for adults with special needs.
Over the years, Julyan has found meaning and purpose in the countryside of Zambales. His daily activities integrated him in the local community where he is well- understood and whole-heartedly accepted. Julyan is treated with respect and dignity by the locals. As a farmer, Julyan grows onions, garlic and other greens. Aside from tending his own organic farm, he also helps manages a mini ranch with goats and freerange chickens. Working in his farm is therapeutic forJulyan. He used to have difficulty expressing himself verbally and would destroy things out of frustration but the soothing power of nature in Zambawood made him calmer and relaxed.
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Julyan is an inspiration to those with the same condition. Zambawood is a healing hub for other special children as well. The resort creates an environment that promotes a healthy lifestyle and develops skills for children and adults with autism. Julyan is known as a sweet and friendly young man among Zambawood guests. He warmly welcomes them during their stay at the resort. Visitors get the chance to see how extraordinary life is for Julyan. The picturesque surrounding and calmness of the sea serves as an inspiration for Julyan to pursue his passion in painting. He paints everyday with his artistic mentor Paul. He also goes to the market and help with the chores. Through Julyan, Zambawood is succeeding in spreading awareness and acceptance of autism. Zambawood Boutique Resort, Julyan’s Farm and Zambawood Café have become the facilities for working and developing the life skills of adults with special needs. Zambawood is true to its tag line: “People with special needs should not stop them from having fun and purpose.”
Julyan with Danica Sotto
Julyan Harrison with mom Rachel Harrison and his dedicated team Ronie Paterno, Paul Alfred Pantilon , Jospeh, Nino, Ricky Tumadlang and Jenny Fer
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Autism is a life-long condition. It is estimated that the current ratio of people affected with autism is 1/69 regardless of race and social status. When they are young, they attend special schools and go through various therapies to learn and acquire skills. As they become adults, the focus shifts to life skills to enable them to work and find purpose. Autism is a serious battle for parents. Julyan is a middle child. His father Keith Harrison is British. When his mom Rachel discovered that he has autism, her mom felt her world was crashing. She cried endlessly. Hopeless and lost for her son.She tried everything to shed light to her son’s situation for a very long time. Julyan went to all available doctors and therapies but nothing seemed to work out. It was a struggle for the entire family but they have to make new plans for Julyan.They have to learn to accept him as he is and when they did finally, they realized that Julyan is a gift. Julyan experienced living in other countries where his parents hoped to find a better home for him but eventually they still ended up in the Philippines. When Rachel, his mom revisited their property in Zambales, she instinctively envisioned the creation of Zambawood as a perfect place where Julyan can play, learn, grow and be free. It became the best home for Julyan. To this day, Zambawood hotel resort remains to be Julyan’s paradise where he does the things he loves. Julyan swims, surfs, farms, cooks, paints, and enjoys the shore with his ATV. Despite of his condition, he lives a very comfortable life surrounded by people who embrace his whole being. Aside from his family and his nurturing community, his SPED teacher Ricky Tumadiang gives full support toJulyan in his everyday life. He guides and makes sure that Julyan does his daily routine. Ricky shared that it is important for people with special needs to live a structured life because it will give them a sense of security as they cannot cope as easily with the fast-paced city life. Julyan’s journey with autism opened up doors for people with special needs and their families who were previously lost in this situation. Julyan paved the way for a brighter future for others like him. An exceptional life discovery of Julyan gave purpose and meaning to the world for other children with special needs.
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Some of Julyan Harrison’s work aptly titled “I CAN SEA”
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ENI ALBA Modern Woman Photographed by HENRY FERRER
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wenty-four hours a day is all the time given for everyone. However, there are a few
exceptional people who accomplish much that it seems as though their day have twice as much time as others. Eni Alba is one such person. In the span of a day, she is able to hear mass, meet-up with all the different area heads of her family-owned chain of pawnshops, jewelry stores and financing companies. In the same day she oversees operations in their family firm which engages in legal, audit and management consultancy. She also tends to her husband as well their three sons. Interspersed in her working day are various tasks related to her works in religious organizations, charitable organizations including RCMC Rotary. Despite her busy schedule, she manages to stay beautiful and glamorous enough to be named one of 12 Best Dressed Women of the Philippines just this 2015. Being a compassionate leader with a savvy management style, Eni is recently awarded by the Development of Filipino Writers with a Golden Lifetime Achievement Award as an Outstanding Business Executive.
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Her strong leadership and work ethic were also recognized by her fellow Rotarians and she is currently elected President of her Rotary district. She has also been appointed as Ambassador for Life by the Philippine Cancer Society. Eni’s penchant for excellence began early on in her grade school days when she was consistently either a class officer or president. Later on she would distinguish herself as one of the few people to pass the State Scholarship Program of the Philippines. She was initially an academic scholar, then later on a state scholar in St. Louis University in Baguio where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce, Major in Accounting. She went on to take the CPA exam and passed on the first take. Despite her success in business and socio-civic activities, family comes first for Eni. All of her children are achievers in their own right. Her eldest son is currently taking up law in San Beda. He is in the honor class and on the dean’s list too. Frankie, her second child is taking up law in Ateneo College of Law and aside from being on the dean’s list, he is also a batch representative. The youngest son Angelo is currently taking International Hospitality Management in De La Salle and after graduation, he intends to pursue his studies in Paris, France. Her husband is a prominent legal and management consultant for various companies and multinationals. Eni loves to travel with her family and they have created a lot of happy memories together in US, Europe and Asia.
Her secret to blissful family life and success in business is living by the golden rule that you reap what you sow. Always do good and it will return to you a hundred folds.
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Location: PALO ALTO FALLS Baras, Rizal
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Location: CLOUD 9 Antipolo City Hair & Make-up: RENREN SANTOS
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A Special Feature: Valdepe単as & Mendoza Wedding
Dreams do come true Vince and Danie tie the knot
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n the midst of the APEC holiday rush, there was
a low key, but highly meaningful event being celebrated at the Shrine of St. Therese, Newport City. Two very special people were exchanging vows in a tastefully elegant wedding ceremony that was living proof that fairy tales are real. Most important of all, despite what this decidedly jaded world would have people believe, children who trust in and honor their parents’ wishes are rewarded with a good life. Born to two very religious families, Danie, is the daughter of Eduardo and Daisy Mendoza. Her father Eduardo is the Executive Director of TSPI (Tulay Sa Pag-Unlad Inc.) , a Christian microenterprise development NGO.
Her mother Daisy has been active in Ateneo de Manila, serving for more than 20 years in the different school parent associations, the most notable of which was when she was unanimously elected as Ateneo Schools Parents Council (ASPAC) president. Both of her parents are active leaders of Ang Ligaya ng Panginoon Community--a family-based transparochial covenant Catholic community in Metro Manila, Philippines which grew out of the vibrant charismatic renewal experience of the early 70’s.
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Vince is the son of Victor and Teresita Valdepe単as. His father Victor, is one of the most highly respected people in the world of economics, treasure and finance. He will be retiring soon, after an illustrious career as President and Chief Operating Officer of Union Bank.
His mother Teresita Valdepe単as, is very active in charity, having served several terms as President of Goodwill Industries, a non-profit committed to the empowerment of PWDs.
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Very special parents indeed but Vince and Danie are very exceptional young people as well. Vince graduated from Ateneo and proceeded to Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for his post grad studies. He is currently a banker and was an entrepreneur with many successful businesses under his belt. Danie, a former Star Dream girl back in 2005, graduated from Ateneo also was working previously with Store Specialists Inc., a prestigious retailing firm that represents world renowned luxury brands such as Ferragamo, Armani, Gucci, Prada, Givenchy, Tod’s, Burberry and many more. She looks forward to being a homemaker and possibly an entrepreneur in the near future. It was a union that seemed planned because of their similar personalities and interests. Both of them are very outgoing and they share a love for music, dancing, partying and traveling. They also share a passion for eating and are always up for trying new restaurants and food. They love city life and lead a very cosmopolitan lifestyle. Even their tastes in dÊcor and homes are uncannily similar, leaning towards the modern and minimalistic. Most significant of all is that both of them come from very close knit families. Hence they are both family oriented and value their respective families so much. Despite their busy schedules they always make time for their families.
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It was not a conventional romance though because they were apart for quite a bit of time. They spent 4 years of long distance dating with Vince in HK, while Danie was in Manila. But love knows no distance and today they finally tied the knot.
There to share in the celebration of their union were their Godparents: Vice Pres. Jejomar C. Binay, Hon. Minita V. Chico-Nazario, Cong. Jose L. Atienza Jr., Mrs. Cora D. Ong, Sec. Rogelio L. Singson, Atty. Ma. Gracia P. Tan, Sec. Ramon Jesus P. Paje, Mrs. Nini M. Mitchell, Coun. Loreto B. Valdepe単as, Mrs. Michaela M. Puno, Dr. Emiliano B. Canonigo Jr., Dr. Ma. Lourdes I. Ramiro, Atty. Lamberto L. Meer, Mrs. Yolanda C. Juan, Mr. Wick A. Veloso, Mrs. Prescilla C. Ermita, Mr. Arsenio M. Bartolome III, Mrs. Modesta O. Valdepe単as, Mr. Roberto S. Tenchavez, Mrs. Sarah V. Peli単o
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When Vince and Danie finally arrived the doors were opened and guests were greeted with the beautifully decorated ballroom finished in an elegant lavender color. It was an evening where the loved ones of Danie and Vince took turns talking, singing, dancing and performing which made the reception all the more memorable. There were touching speeches from the loving members of the bride and grooms and family. Several times, one could see out of the corner of their eyes, tears falling from the guests, this writer included. The closeness of the siblings to the bride and groom was so evident particularly the special song number that Danie’s siblings dedicated to the newlyweds. But perhaps the most touching was the song which the bride and her father danced what he considered to be his last dance with his little girl. They danced to “I loved her first� by Heartland and that was truly the tearjerker of the evening.
It was not the stereotype high society wedding with glitzy fanfare which would have been expected given the high social stature of the family and their guests. It was subdued elegance and what prevailed was an atmosphere of love, family, friendships and camaraderie. Celebrations, when blessed by God have a sublime nature to them and this wedding was such a celebration. The group at large, most specially the families of the bride and groom are God fearing, humble and kind hearted persons. As they say, good begets good and this celebration is proof of that.
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So the entourage proceeded inside the church, all of them impeccably dressed and looking radiant. Yet despite the presence of these highly respected and distinguished people everyone took a step backwards to the stars of the evening. First was Vince accompanied by his parents on the way to the altar, then everything paused and the doors opened to reveal a beautiful sight, Danie in her elegant wedding gown. It was a most sublime moment, one that mesmerized everyone as she walked regally to the altar.
It was a beautiful ceremony with the couple reading their vows to each other. The closeness of the family manifested itself during the wedding itself. After the wedding ceremony was over, the whole entourage left the church and crossed over to the Marriot Grand Ballroom for the reception. The guests were kept entertained outside the ballroom with wine. soda drinks, hors d'oeuvres and photo booths (definitely the all time favorite that night) while waiting for the couple.
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So as the evening deepened, one after the other, some of the older guests began leaving. But a lot more stayed to enjoy the rest of the night dancing, singing and celebrating. Vince who is a drummer and Danie who was both a ballet dancer and cheerleader, wanted to keep the party vibe going well into the night, so the band and the DJ made sure of this. More than a wedding, it was a truly a celebration of love and family. As their invitation states, “In his perfect time, God planned to make our paths cross. “ Today in God’s unfailing faithfulness, Vince and Danie became husband and wife.
Photos by RV Mitra Photography
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LISA NAIDAS The Beauty From Gunsan Photographed by RONIN URBINA
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or many Filipinos, Korean is equated with beauty. Nowhere is this truer than in the case of
Lisa Naidas, who not only exudes the beauty associated with Koreans but also engages in the business of beauty. A Korean national married to a Filipino, Lisa went to the US to continue her studies after graduating from high school in Korea. While she is a well traveled person and looks forward to periodically visiting Korea to meet old friends and enjoy Korean cuisine, she has become a Filipino at heart, and considers Puerto Princesa and Palawan as the source of her most exciting and wonderful travel experiences. Lisa is the owner and the driving force behind “The Clinic by Lisa” which is also known as the Korean beauty expert. From the ever present BB cream and all its variants, to the Korean parlors, complete with staff that look as though they were picked out from a K-pop movie, it is clear that the demand of Filipinos for beauty products and techniques from Korea will not wane. Not one to sit on her laurels, Lisa insists on a hands-on approach in her business because to her, it’s a passion. Seeing the transformation of people from the ordinary, to the beautiful and gorgeous is a source of great satisfaction to her. In fact, she is constantly on the lookout for new techniques and equipment that she could use in The Clinic.
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In between taking care of her business, Lisa also sneaks in a round of golf and she also looks forward to spending time with her two children, Rico and Cassandra who are her source of pride. Not for their accomplishments though they are quite accomplished at a young age, but for growing up to be kindhearted, honorable and responsible person. Rico, who is married already, currently works for the Antipolo City government as the head of their Health and Wealth department. Aside from his work for the government, Rico also manages the family business, Eastern Manila Hotel which was the former Las Brisas Hotel. While he was unable to fulfill his dreams of being a councilor in 2010, Rico is still hopefull that someday he may be able to serve Antipolo City in a better capacity. Cassandra, on the other hand, inherited her mothers’ beauty and holds the title of Ms World Philippines 2015, First Princess. Aside from this, Cassandra also works as a model. There is more to Cassandra than just a beautiful face. She played basketball competitively for Assumption Antipolo back in high school. A graduate of De La Salle University, she also trained with the DLSU team but decided she wanted to pursue other opportunities. Despite the desire for other undertakings, Cassandra was adamant that she would finish her studies before entering a beauty pageant.
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After seeing how much these two young people have made of themselves in such a short span of time, it becomes clear that Lisa was a big influence in their lives. There are three basic principles by which Lisa lives by. First, she does not judge people with her own criteria. Secondly she does not expect anything from anyone and last but not the least, she practices an attitude of gratitude for everything that she has. In a way, it can be said that Lisa is much like a person she admires the most, Audrey Hepburn. She was a beautiful person inside and out, and was always ready to help and reach out to those who are less fortunate and she is the person Lisa would like to emulate. She is a person who is extremely easy to get along with and she makes it a point to think positive all the time, making sure to always smile because that is the secret to attracting positive vibes. In fashion style, Lisa insists on remaining feminine, cute and elegant, all at the same time, all the time. When asked about how she remains gorgeous and so fashionably slim, she share some very simple and basic advice. Eat healthy food, particularly vegetable and avoiding fatty and junk foods. Drink lots of water and make daily cleaning and moisturizing (with Korean products of course!) and getting regular facial treatments. This gorgeous lady from Gunsan is just getting warmed up and in the future, Lisa looks forward to growing “The Clinic by Lisa� even more, and feeding her mind by studying new languages like Spanish and Chinese.
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HAMADA Baguio Country Club’s Best Japanese Restaurant
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henever a 10 best list pops up
relating to Baguio restaurants or food, it is guaranteed that Hamada will be on that list. Whether it’s the 10 best restaurants near PMA, Botanical or even Burnham. Or 10 best restaurants PERIOD, Hamada will not only be there, but it will be at or near the top of the list. This is all the more fascinating because not everyone can dine at Hamada since its inside the Baguio Country Club and you need to be accompanied or sponsored by a member to eat there.
So what makes Hamada so special and loved by all who dine there? In one phrase, GREAT JAPANESE FOOD. In one word, RAMEN.
IMAGESASIA 39 Being located in Baguio, the chilly, bracing cold will surely favor a bowl of warm soup, so its defintely going to be a staple in most restaurants there. But a steady stream of one satisfied diner after another are raving about the different types of ramen in Hamadas. Blog after blog show up with photos and positive comments about how good their ramen is and that it has no equal in Baguio and even in Metro Manila according to some customers. Given the meticulous attention to the quality of the ramen down to the broth which takes 3 days to prepare, it is no wonder that each large bowl of ramen will be absolutely delicious. But while ramen is popular due to the climate, Hamada’s other Japanese dishes have been praised over and over again. These include their Teppanyaki Yamamori special which is an absolute treat for your taste buds. Its ingredients include
prawns, chicken, salmon, US Angus beef, vegetables and Japanese rice. A look around the restaurant reveals that the teppanyaki chefs put on a show for all their diners, providing a treat for the eyes as well, entertaining children and adults alike with their skillful cooking moves. It’s not a short process either, taking more than 30 minutes, so the chefs really get a workout as well. But its all worth it in the end, from the very first spoonful, its sublime Japanese cuisine.
Hamada also breaks out of the typical stereotype of Japanese cuisine which is spelled e-x-p-e-n-s-i-v-e. The prices are surprisingly reasonable and the servings are quite generous. Even with the cold weather inducing a higher calorie burn, it doesn’t cost much to satisfy the heartiest of appetites in Hamada.
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It would however be a crime if we don’t mention that the restaurant, and Baguio Country Club are in themselves a delight for the diner. The warm inviting interiors complements the cuisine are a treat for the eyes as well. Many warm memories of Baguio are created in the Country Club and there is hardly a Baguio visitor that has not admired the charms of the place. If you’re a Baguio regular, Its not too hard to wrangle up a member who can vouch for you. So if you find yourself in Baguio anytime soon, even if you aren’t a die hard Japanese food fan, give Hamada a try. It might make a convert out of you. And if you are into Japanese food, well you just might consider making Baguio your home after eating in Hamada.
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HAMADA JAPANESE RESTAURANT Baguio Country Club, Country Club Road, Baguio City
Other Baguio Country Club F&B Outlets: THE VERANDAH THE COTTERMAN ROOM THE “RAISIN BREAD” ROOFDECK BARBEQUE GARDEN PAR 7 HALFWAY HOUSE Photographed by SEAN PEREZ
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This is Out Time Make Filipino Time On Time – Ibarra Time.
THE Fis The Flagship Rizal Series Illustrado Collection MODEL SPECIFICATIONS Elegant rose-gold plating Swiss Ronda quartz movement with analog display
Scratch-proof sapphire crystal window Features include a crocodile embossed pattern on a leather Calfskin strap Water resistant to 165 feet (50 M): withstands light swimming, white water rafting, non-snorkeling water related activities, and fishing.