SPARK_1226

FASHION / DESIGN / FAR-OUT LIFESTYLES

//// Only in Spark: charlie chaplin’s hollywood hideaway //// interventions with divine lee //// Katja Rodriguez is All Dolled Up //// the new adventures of quark henares

Gossip Girl’s KELLY RUTERFORD

WORLD EXCLUSIVE: Photographed and styled by the spark team in Beverly Hills

DEC-Jan 2012 P199

one-on-one with the upper east side beauty

contents

fashion and beauty 12 OBJECT OF DESIRE FOR HER 14 OBJECT OF DESIRE FOR HER 16 OBJECT OF DESIRE FOR HIM 20 HONESTLY RECOMMENDED FOR HER/FASHION

22 HONESTLY RECOMMENDED FOR THEM/FASHION 24 HONESTLY RECOMMENDED FOR HER/FASHION 26 HONESTLY RECOMMENDED FOR HER/BEAUTY 28 HONESTLY RECOMMENDED FOR THEM 30 HONESTLY RECOMMENDED FOR HIM 76 sublime Rocker Chic 104 HERE COMES THE SUNRISE

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people pieces places 32 HERMèS HEARTS AND CRAFTS 34 SOUTH AFRICA SOJOURN 36 HIDDEN RESPITE 42 THE COMPOSITION OF QUARK 46 ON THE MAGNUM TRAIL 52 KELLY’S GRACE 60 INTERVENTIONS W/ DIVINE 70 ALL DOLLED UP 90 PHEN-HORMONAL BREAKTHROUGHS

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in out and about 88 SMART POWER FOR SMARTER LIVING 96 SPARK AMERICAN DREAM PARTY 102 EYE TO EYE 103 POWERING THE FUTURE

Editorial Director Kariz Tanya Favis Creative Director Martin Favis SPARK Europe Editor in Chief Carla Sibal Associate Editor Valerie Anne del Castillo Production Manager & Graphic Artist Mark Cabalang Editorial Assistants Mitch Albaniel Karla Mae Gacusana BC LUXE MEDIA INC.

Graphic Artist Jonnel Martin Herman Contributing Writers Neil Garguilo, Dra. Windie Hayano, Keng-Fun Lo, AG Puyat, Rosario Santiago, Pepper Teehankee Contributing Photographers Vince Golangco, Diego Jose, Rob Rich, Stephen Seidel Contributing Stylist Amy Highfill

President & Publisher Job Ambrosio Vice President Martin Favis Group Associate Publisher Victor Aliwalas

Make-up Artists Toni Aviles, Pia Gonzales, Byron Velasquez Hair Stylists Obet Federizo, Jojo Feratir, Vicky Gabutan Cover Model: Kelly Rutherford Cover Image Martin Favis Make-up Klexius Kolby and Akemi Hair Britney and Jen Kim

Chairman Kariz Tanya Favis

Finance Manager Charina Mitra Advertising Manager Jeyme Azarraga-Morallo Account Manager Maricel Bancolita SUBSCRIPTIONS info@bcmedia.ph

SPARK OFFICE BC Luxe Media Inc. 28th Floor Ayala Life-FGU Center 6811 Ayala Avenue, Makati City PHILIPPINES T +63 2 478 4172 E info@bcmedia.ph www.sparkmag.ph Reproduction without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. For advertising, subscriptions, back orders or other inquiries, please call 0916.507.3227, 0939.130.0997, or 478.4172. Unsolicited contributions must be submitted with a stamped self-addressed envelope if they are to be returned. The magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or photography or for materials lost or damaged in the mail. Opinions expressed in this magazine are solely those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by BC LUXE MEDIA, INC.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

i n w i t h t h e new SPARK’s Kariz Tanya Favis with Kelly Rutherford; With Divine Lee

Various musings. Hugs and kisses—it took me a while to figure out what XOXO meant. Lately however, it’s been synonymous to the unidentified voice-over character in the TV show Gossip Girl, as she punctuates episodes with an innuendo. We’re familiar with the storyline of the show—poor, little rich kids—and that formula is always a surefire hit. Except, you must have believable characters to work it. One of the main cast members that fuel the GG fire is SPARK’s current chic cover model, Kelly Rutherford. She is every bit the well-mannered mother she portrays on TV as she is in person—with the same sophistication to boot.

Businesswoman, host, model (among others), Divine Lee graces this issue with a dressed-down, day-in-the-life version, as compared to how you would find her in other glossies. The style (and gay) icon is a charmer, not to mention, a breeze to work with. She arrives on the set with her boyfriend, actor Victor Basa, who helped her administer a shot to her stomach area for a mild cyst she is working extra hard to flush out. She sincerely apologizes for her tardiness, but more than makes up for it with an open disposition and endearing loquaciousness that made this lady a celebrity in her own right.

The legendary English silent film star Charlie Chaplin’s former Los Angeles home and hideaway shows a glimpse of the comic genius’ dwellings. In the same vein, it is noteworthy that the Philippines may also have another director making waves in the US through one Quark Henares, who is currently there to pursue his business studies. Ingénue Katja Rodriguez makes her Philippine print modeling debut in this issue as we take you to other destinations: a taste of Africa through Pepper Teehankee, and to an insider’s perspective of Kosovo with Ken Fung Loh. And on aesthetics, Dr. Windie Hayano elaborates on the workings of hormone replacement therapy.

Finally, on the coming year 2012: they say that on the Mayan calendar, it is the end of the world, as we know it. Quite daunting, but whatever the case, our team made sure to put together this issue that rings in the New Year, and decidedly ends 2011 on a particularly high note.

Kariz Tanya Favis Editorial Director

ERRATUM: The Bulgari All Blacks images used in the November 2011 issue of SPARK are all courtesy of Bulgari.

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A TOUCH OF MANHATTAN IN MANILA: Following the launch and beginning of reservation sales of Trump Tower Manila at Century City in September, leading real estate developer Century Properties revealed that residents of the Philippines’ most illustrious residential skyscraper will experience a touch of Manhattan in their own suites and in the building’s amenity spaces.

Trump Tower Manila introduces three New York-inspired unit interior finishes.

“Trump Tower Manila residents will have the authentic New York experience signature to the Trump buildings in Manhattan and its surrounding district. Each owner will have the privilege of choosing one out of three distinct interior themes that will be used for the finishes of his or her Trump Tower Manila residence. This achieves the trademark touch of New York, which is the greatest melting pot of foremost luxury, artistry and sophistication,” said Robbie Antonio, Managing Director of Century Properties and Project Head of Trump Tower Manila.

for doors, and marble and granite natural stones in cream, white and black.

Trump Tower Manila will offer three interior design finishes that capture the essence of New York’s unique character. First of these is Downtown/SoHo, named after a neighborhood in lower Manhattan and home to many art galleries and artists’ lofts, as well as trendy boutiques and flagship stores of prestigious and cutting edge global brands. The Downtown/SoHo style blends the area’s 18th century elegance in its decorative cast-iron façade and “hip” interior design through high contrast hues. Trump Tower Manila lends Downtown Soho’s unique sophistication through ebony wood flooring, pristine white walls with linear paneling and white natural stones in smooth matte finishes.

The Pool and Sky Garden will be located at the 30th floor with a lap pool and Jacuzzi, a sun deck that opens to breathtaking views of Makati and a stylish Juice Bar. A fine-dining Restaurant is also being planned for the ground floor.

Fifth Avenue, the inspiration for the second interior theme, is ranked as one of the most expensive avenues in the world and remains coveted for its variety of upscale retail shops, deluxe apartments and prestigious penthouses. It evokes a classic design aesthetic through art deco in light wood veneer floors and walls, marble, and granite natural stones in creams and browns.

Park Avenue is the third interior theme and is inspired by the fabulous elegance and lush greenery of its namesake. Its overall design philosophy is classic and timeless, and its transitional style will be echoed in traditional moldings on walls and cornices, contemporary wenge wood flooring, lacquered high gloss finish

Fine furniture and finishes have been selected to adorn the building’s common spaces, including the Grand Lobby and Lift Lobby. The Business Center will be an exclusive space with meeting, function and video rooms; a library, lounge and garden terrace. The Fitness and Spa Centre features a gym and spa with a stylish spa lounge, treatment rooms, sauna and steam rooms, and a beauty salon.

With a very limited number of units, ranging from Suites of approximately 57 sqm (613 square feet) and 1 to 4-bedrooms (861 square feet to 3,014 square feet) and penthouses as spacious as approximately 425 sqm (4,574 square feet), Antonio said that Trump Tower Manila is now offered at very competitive market prices. “We expect that the market will quickly seize each one of these over 220 units—a very rare and limited number for those on the lookout for world-class property the world over.”

“Owning a space in Trump Tower Manila provides an exclusive opportunity for clients to be immersed in international design, coupled with unparalleled quality and service. We at Century Properties would like to showcase what luxury living truly means, and bring this global New York state of mind and lifestyle experience right at Century City, Makati.” Antonio said.

Trump Tower Manila is 100-percent owned and developed by Century Properties.

For information visit www.trumptowermanila.com or call 0917-5555-274 and 818-9041.

1 Park Avenue interior 2 Fifth Avenue interior 3 Downtown/SoHo interior 4 Artist’s rendition of Trump TowerTM Manila

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object of desire

TIMELESS BRILLIANCE Cartier unveils its new collection in an extravagant timepiece that embodies pure sophistication in its brilliantly cut gems and dainty curves—the Délices de Cartier watch.

Made of rhodium-plated 18-carat gold set, one in white gold for a timeless appeal and rose gold for a modern edge, the voluptuous and generous case of the Délices de Cartier is magnificently set with round diamonds. This new splendor of the fine jewelry house is highly chic—simple but captivating—each piece testifying to Cartier’s hallmark in creating watches that defy the sands of time.

canvas. The innately seductive collection is showcased in its dainty dimensions: it is 7.20 mm thin, 30.78 mm wide and 36.07 mm long. The dial of the watch is silvered and lacquered, and its crystal is made of sapphire. The finely made timepiece is also water-resistant to 100 ft., or approximately 30 meters. The 18-carat pink gold set of the Délices de Cartier comes with the same dimension and water resistance feature, while its strap and folding clasp are stylishly in a pink-gold luster. The watch is made of 0.46 carats in total.

The Délices de Cartier watch is made of rhodium-plated 18 carat white gold including its folding clasp, while its bezel is set with round diamonds and strap of light grey brushed

Délices de Cartier watch, small model, rhodium-plated 18 carat white gold set with diamonds and Délices de Cartier watch, small model, 18 carat pink gold set with diamonds

/ / / / Images Courtesy of Cartier, Studio Dieleman

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object of desire

Street Chic From street art to silk scarf, Parisian graffiti artist Kongo adds to the Hermès palette the color of the urban streets. This square silk twill is splashed with a cacophony of bright colors in an aggressive imagery that screams of the metropolitan, exuding ceaseless movement.

Conversing the language of change, proceeds from sales would be bestowed for the promotion of the multiformity of street art.

“Graff Hermès” silk twill carré designed by Kongo for Hermès, Greenbelt 3 / / / / Image Courtesy of Hermès

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object of desire

THE TEST OF TIME Expect to be seduced by the new Bulgari Grande Sonnerie Perpetual Calendar, Daniel Roth Collection, which combines three highly exclusive complications, of the sheer number of its components, of the time required to assemble it, and of its impressive range of functions. Think of it as the only timepiece you’ll ever need, whether you’re prepping for a business meeting, heading out for that hot date, or just plain watching a ball game with the boys. This exceptional watch will surely be the center of attention, a nod towards your discerning sense of style.

Well beyond its sleek surface is a collection of 923 parts that compose the movement, with 20 different functions in this one-of-a-kind model that will chime 433,580 notes each year in the course of 35,040 activations. And you wonder why this watch takes at least a year to assemble. The undeniable mastery of this piece is so intricate, that one must master energy, metallurgy, acoustics, and miniaturization before

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he can build such a complex yet beautiful model. It is also important to note that each one of these watches are special as an artist’s craft—creating the Grande Sonnerie is not something that is taught in watchmaking school, but instead is dependent on a watchmaker’s experience.

The Grande Sonnerie also features one of the most poetic complications: the Perpetual Calendar, which will impressively operate accurately without any need for adjustment until the year 2100—a true heirloom that will never go out of style.

Presented at Baselworld 2011, this exceptional creation is an artistic masterpiece which, according to the most discerning connoisseurs of fine watchmaking, has already earned its place within the selective circle of the ten most complicated watches ever presented. Now that’s something you’d want in your Christmas stocking this season. / / / / Images Courtesy of Bulgari

Bulgari GrandE Sonnerie Quantième PerpÊtuel Movement: Calibre DR 5307, 22 complications and functions, 923 different parts

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The new Duchess of Cambridge shows how simple can be trendy and ultra-fashionable

FIT FOR A QUEEN Following the widely-anticipated Royal Wedding, the world watched as Kate Middleton turned into the newest, mostwatched fashion icon in the world. Exuding confidence and grace even in just a pair of jeans, the Duchess of Cambridge is now serving as an inspiration for women the world over with her unpredictable, innovative style. She is often seen with conservative outfits plus a pop of gravity-defying accessories, while relying on staples like her Burberry trench.

/ / / / Images Courtesy of Stores Specialists, Inc.

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Kate’s ensembles of ready-to-wear fashion show a wide range of trendy pieces from great clothing power houses.

She shows off an impeccable sense of style with hip designer brands like Diesel—from which she sports a sleek pair of Ronhoir jeans—and classics such as Tod’s, from which she oft carries a sleek purse.

The Duchess’ look is timeless, feminine, and perfectly tailored to her sartorial taste and mood.

FROM LEFT: Elegant and chic, Kate Middleton was spotted wearing a Burberry trench coat in Belfast, Northern Ireland; KATE dons Diesel Jeans Ronhoir in Medium Wash, a classic fivepocket denim style with a deliberately worn and comfortable look; in the streets of London, sighted carrying the iconic Tod’s D Bag, a handbag which was named in Diana’s honour

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Stylish and functional new eyewear that combines British craftsmanship with Belgian design / / / / Images Courtesy of Maison Martin Margiela and Cutler & Gross

SECOND SHADE Maison Martin Margiela and Cutler & Gross are back.

Following the success of their first collaboration last year, the two industry heavyweights have created a new collection of sunglasses that are of top quality, highly desirable, and are associated with innovation. Combining their unique style and expertise, they reveal a new attention to detail inspired by the past. There are four new themes which beautifully express their vision from an aesthetic and a comfort point of view.

Cutler and Gross started in 1969 and has been pioneering the reinvention of the eyewear industry as we know it today.

And for the first time, Maison Martin Margiela has tailored its ‘Replica’ line to include sunglasses. These new designs, whose origin is explained on the label, are as alluring and as powerful as the original designs but have been reinvented to create a new timeless style through the choice of materials.

Hand made in Italy, the four collections, namely: Replica France, Cable Temple, Rimless and Replica Turkey; take us back to the ‘70s and ‘80s with their stylish shapes and frames.

FROM TOP: RIMLESS PILOT, REPLICA TURKEY IN SILVER, CABLE TEMPLE IN BLACK, RIMLESS SQUARE

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Style and function meet in these trendy accessories that spell “haute lady”

HEADROOM Hide from the sun and keep your tresses in tow with this resurging hat that brings you back to the ‘20s. Ultra iconic, it even inspired the most popular hairstyle of that era.

SLEEK GEEK The latest gadget deserves a timeless case that mirrors its elegance and will safely cradle its sophisticated mechanism.

PURE WOOL GROSGRAIN BOW CLOCHE HAT BY MARKS & SPENCER, P1,950

NOVA CHECK IPHONE SLEEVE BY BURBERRY, P11,000

DUAL PURPOSE PURSE Change styles to fit your mood and needs—from clutch bag to shoulder bag, this one is fashionable in both ways. Paint the town red with this chic purse that will take you from day to night.

SAFEKEEPER Be seduced by the deep red hue of this gorgeous belt, and cinch your waist while you’re at it.

RED LEATHER BAG BY SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

FLY BY Gone are the days when feathers and sequins were only worn at costume parties. Revamp your tresses with this classic hairpiece.

CHERRY LEATHER BELT BY GUCCI, P12,500

FIST PUMP Tough and glamorous, this leather glove may be a rock star’s (or those who feel like one) staple accessory.

LEATHER GLOVES WITH GOLD STUDS BY ZARA, P2,990

JET SEQUIN FEATHER CLIP BY ACCESSORIZE, P1,350

/ / / / Image Mark Cabalang Product Styling Valerie Anne del Castillo

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These are the finest gems of skin and body care—a sophisticated choice for a sleek woman. Pamper yourself with these essentials that will not only keep your skin smooth, but also nourished

SQUEAKY CLEAN Get that fragrant after-bath radiance with the rich scent of rose accord combined with Italian Orris, white amber, and tonka beans packaged in a gloriously decorated tube.

This shower gel with glycerin will leave skin feeling soft and smooth, making you feel and smell splendidly fresh and ready to go.

Shower Gel with Glycerin by Cath Kidston, P695

SWEETEST OF DREAMS Because night time is the ideal time for skin repair, L’Oréal offers a new DermaLiftTechnology that acts within skin’s layer to help it retighten from within. Powered by Pro-Retinol A, this essence has a thin fluid texture that smoothly glides onto skin, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles and contouring the face, all while you comfortably sleep.

Revitalift Dermalift Night Essence by L’OrÉal Paris, P995

SOOTHING DAILY ESSENTIAL Say goodbye to your beauty nightmares with Dream Cream.

Give your skin some tender loving care with the tried and tested traditional oat milk that calms soreness. It also includes chamomile, rose, and lavender essential oils that sooth irritation. A well-deserved beauty rest for troubled skin.

Dream Cream by Lush, P975

NOURISHING NATURALS The most important part of our daily skin regimen is cleansing—removing impurities caused by environmental aggressors. This facial wash’s key ingredient, pomegranate seed oil, is rich in anti-oxidants that help reduce the damage caused by free radicals while it moisturizes your face.

Natrulift Softening Facial Wash with Organic Pomegranate by The Body Shop, P895

REJUVENATING RITUALS Illuminate your skin, reveal its natural radiance, and boost its brilliance and clarity. Even upon first contact, skin will already look clearer, giving you a glimpse of your skin’s “bright future”

with the continued use of the serum. This season, reveal a new you with this ultimate beauty secret.

Bright Future Radiant Serum by La Mer, P14,500

THE POWER OF THREE Look and feel younger with this starter kit that includes an Instant Retexturizing Scrub, Intensive Concentrate for Stretch Marks and Wrinkles, and an Eye Concentrate for Wrinkles, which together polishes and primes the skin, fights wrinkles on the face and eyes, and provides protection.

Age Less Starter Kit by StriVectin-SD, P2,300

HAPPY ENDINGS Perfect your tresses with this exquisitely kiwi-fragranced concentrate that smoothens and shields damaged and split ends for healthier hair that is full of life. Now you can confidently let your hair down, anytime, anywhere.

Shine Serum for Hair Ends Kiwi Fragrance by Camille Albane, P795

CREASE-FREE SKIN Glutathione, the body’s chief antioxidant, depletes with age and stress, accelerating the aging of the skin. Now you can dramatically reduce the appearance of creases, improve papery-thin texture, and restore the natural radiance of youthful skin with the help of the “Crease Cure.” Witness the rebirth of your skin with this patent-pending skin care treatment.

Acyl-glutathione by Perricone MD, P8,250

SCIENCE IN A BOTTLE The first fast-acting serum from Estée Lauder Research dramatically reduces signs of uneven skin tone, such as redness, acne marks, dark spots, sun spots, and discolorations.

Upon application, notice your skin’s redness reduced, and an overall fresh and radiant feel. Over time, your skin will look noticeably clearer and brighter and more even-toned, thanks to this gentle, oil-free formula.

Idealist Skintone Illuminator by ESTÉE LAUDER, P5,450

/ / / / Image Mark Cabalang

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Because one’s bed is not solely for sleeping, here’s one that will make for a great addition to your bedroom / / / / Images Courtesy of Flou

Them

in the land of dreams Designed by Rodolfo Dordoni, the Batò is a double-sized bed that has a classical, almost timeless appeal. Stylish as it is functional, it is available with a dismantable storage base or a fixed base in Canaletto walnut. The completely removable cover of the head-board is available in gorgeous Pelle 178 leather or Ecopelle. Enriched by decorative inserts matching the head-board cover, the base is also available in wenge-stained oak or walnut Canaletto.

Dress it with the bed-linen set Momo 6901. Flou linens are made of top quality natural fabrics that are pre-shrunk and shrink-proof, ensuring its perfect fit on your bed.

Such materials include 100% pure brushed American

cotton, Egyptian cotton satin, Egyptian linen from organic cultivation, and top quality Indian silk. Combining the finest materials ensures that the textile collection has superior quality, maximum glossiness, and enviable stability despite use.

Accent your sleeping quarters with the matching Batò night-table and rectangular bench with space-saving compartment, covered in leather or Ecopelle. The structure of the bench is available in the same range as the bed-base (wenge-stained oak, walnut Canaletto and the style finish in sand or dark gray color), making for a sleek, uniformed look and feel.

Clockwise from top: The bed Batò, design by Rodolfo Dordoni.

Storage base in Canaletto walnut, and headboard and nighttable Batò covered in Pelle 178 leather; Close up of the bench Batò with inner storage; On the bed, bed-linen set Momo 6901

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The dynamic performance and innovation of Ducati’s motorcycles are now captured in Tumi’s lustrous new line, which redefines the term “red hot” / / / / Image Courtesy of Tumi Ducati

FROM RACETRACK TO RUNWAY For the jet-setters of our generation, here’s a gorgeous new travel essential to lust over—the marriage of Tumi and Ducati in a line of sophisticated accessories that will up the ante of traveling in style. The new collection features three sporty red travel cases, two duffels, and one backpack and crossbody bag. Breezing through the airport will now feel like a walk down Milan’s runways with these sleek cases that are designed with Tumi’s signature multi-layered ABS polycarbonate blend, commodious nylon front panels, and add-a-bag straps and aircraft grade aluminum handles.

Experience the excellence, style, creativity and innovative design which characterizes both Tumi and Ducati as a premium brand, with this line of performance-driven travel bags inspired by the design details of Ducati’s iconic motorcycles. Those who demands a bold, dynamic, and adventurous look can easily fall madly in love with this collection.

What’s more, the frequent traveler in you can now choose between the Due Porte Collapsible Wheeled Duffel, Evoluzione International Carry-On, Tank Medium Backpack, and the Actuator Sport Duffel, all of which make up the attention-drawing, statement collection that invites adventure and encourages spontaneity. Whether you’re flying for leisure, business, or both, you’re sure to find that Tumi Ducati’s newly engineered luggage is styled to perform.

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Take a closer, more intimate look at the heart and soul of Hermès’ craftsmanship, where passion and design combine TO CREATE pieces as unique as its clients

HERMÈS

Hearts and

THE FINEr DETAILS Paying homage to the artisans of the numerous Hermès métiers, the Frédéric Laffont and Isabelle Dupuy-Chavanat directed film, Hearts and Crafts, follows the men and women who bring the Parisian house’s objects to life. From the sounds of leather and crystal, to the song of silk and metal, down to each intricate detail every craftsperson molds and sews to create a masterpiece, the film takes viewers into the atelier, where every Hermès piece is produced with passion and respect. During an intimate event at myCinema Greenbelt 3, the brand celebrated this year’s annual theme of “Contemporary artisan since 1837” with a special screening of this documentary. / / / /

/ / / / Images Courtesy of Hermès Hearts and Crafts, A film by Frédéric Laffont and Isabelle Dupuy-Chavanat, 2011

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In the four corners of France, from Paris to the Ardennes, from the Lyonnais to Lorraine, Isabelle Dupuy-Chavanat and Frédéric Laffon have opened the doors of the house’s workshops to lift the veil on those who master the gestures and the savoirfaire of the saddler, the leather craftsperson, the crystal and glassmaker, the jeweller.

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Travel connoisseur Pepper Teehankee redefines “hot and wild� in the lands of Namibia. Get a glimpse as he fills us in on what to touch, see, feel, and taste in Namibia / / / / Words and Images Pepper Teehankee

sojourn

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Go for a boat ride in Walvis Bay to see dolphins swim by your boat, watch as sea lions climb aboard, and pelicans fly by it! Also, go to their unique red sand dunes for a complete experience. Dine in Joe’s Restaurant in Windhoek for authentic Namibian Cuisine and various game meat. / / / /

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charlie Chaplin’s former hideaway, the Charlie Hotel, has served as a refuge for many celebrities and visitors from all over the world, then and now / / / / Words and Images Kariz Tanya Favis

respite The Charlie was built in 1924 by the Gordon family, and as the stories go, The Great Dictator star, Charlie Chaplin, would escape to this oasis in West Hollywood and write his movies. It was reportedly constructed in stages, over the years of 1925 to 1946. Menachem Treivush made a re-discovery in 2002: down Sweetzer Avenue was this unique and mysterious piece of property boasting of historical value, and great promise. But while it was sadly worn down by time and was on the verge of destruction (it was actually scheduled to be replaced by new development), Treivush set on purchasing it to revive it back to the architectural gem that it was. More importantly, he had the desire to remind everyone of the property’s colorful past.

“I wanted to restore the memories of Hollywood legends who stayed there,” he explains. “The creative imprint they had on us needed to be preserved for decades to come.” And so he bought the property, and after a multi-million restoration that lasted for four and a half years, the garden-enclosed hideaway finally got its glamour and spirit back.

Although a certified hot spot, it is also a big hit with twosomes and those with little ones in tow, who love the gardens and the calm, lush atmosphere. A couple that lived one of The Charlie bungalows ended up naming their baby “Charlie.”

The hideaway brings you back to the past—to the glamorous cinematic golden age, to be exact. It has 14 bungalows: 11 for bed and breakfast use, three for longer-term stays—each one built with meticulous attention to detail, and with a rich history embedded in its walls.

The lodges are named after its famed visitors who once stayed there, such as Marilyn Monroe, Valentino, Bob Dylan, Marlene Dietrich, and Clark Gable—but each one has its own vibe and feel, much like the stars who occupied them.

Inside, there are modern amenities like washers/dryers, stainless steel appliances, spacious showers, luxurious linens, original ironwork, and contemporary furniture mixed with Old Hollywood glamour. They are to represent, as closely as they can, the way they were made in the ‘20s. Nature is also at its best with verdant gardens that one can stroll amidst fruit trees and vines on a starry night, and feel the time stand still, the city seemingly so far away.

On top of these, the service is more than impressive. The owner and staff are courteous, reliable, and helpful. A personal attendant, weekly fresh flowers, optional pet sitting and car wash, make you just want to live there. When asked about his favorite memories of his hotel, Treivush states that, “It would be the joy and gratitude of each person who stays with us,” he shares. “Their appreciation for the beauty, and their time spent here, really warms my heart.”

As for its modern celebrity fan base, Twilight heartthrob Robert Pattinson is reportedly a recent visitor, joining other A-listers who choose this venue as their home away from home. The Charlie lets you live like a Hollywood legend, even for just a night. / / / /

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The lodges are named after its famed visitors who once stayed there, such as Marilyn Monroe, Valentino, Bob Dylan, Marlene Dietrich, and Clark Gable—but each one has its own vibe and feel, much like the stars who occupied them.

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One of The Charlie’s most private cottages, this gorgeous two-storey unit comprised of one bedroom and one bath.

The bungalow features an office area, large closets, and two showers. Guests can also enjoy the small patio out front, which is ideal for afternoon lunches.

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“I wanted to restore the memories of Hollywood legends who stayed there,” Treivush explains. “The creative imprint they had on us needed to be preserved for decades to come.”

Located at 819 N Sweetzer Ave. West Hollywood, CA. thecharliehotel.com

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secret retreat: Twilight stars Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson spotted leavingthe Charlie Hotel in 2009.

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In the midst of the many hats he wears—as a filmmaker, band member, and now, as a business student abroad—Quark Henares is making it big both in the real and reel world. Take a closer look at the candid disposition of this young artist who, despite the silver spoon he was born with, attributes success to realizing his own dreams, through his own quirks and twists, and a little bit of rock and roll / / / / Movie stills courtesy of Quark Henares

the

QUARK

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Who are your major influences as a director/filmmaker?

Whom do you call your mentors?

The dust has settled after the Cinemalaya season, but we’re definitely not over one of the biggest filmmakers to make noise at the film festival’s run. Quark Henares, the twentysomething, Palanca Award-winning “story teller” (as he often likes to call himself) opens up about his passion for the silver screen and his career as a filmmaker, and how the lens through which he sees things allows him to create unique stories that redefine the landscape of Philippine cinema. Now taking an entirely different career path, the big leap from the creative realm of film and music to a more corporate venture only opens bigger opportunities for the talented prodigy—and he’s ready for it.

What made you decide to make the move to L.A.? What are your career plans moving forward?

Marilou Diaz-Abaya was a major mentor in my life. She was my film teacher, and my first job was taking care of the actors for Bagong Buwan. Mike de Leon is my hero, and my movie Keka was a love letter to Batch 81. I think all the major forces behind the film have seen Keka, and I’m really happy about that. I’ve been a fan of my friend and co-worker RA Rivera for around 10 years now. He’s quite brilliant.

What is the most influential film you’ve seen?

Pulp Fiction. It’s the movie that made me want to make movies. I was already a film fan before that, but watching that film and seeing how the energy and love of making it oozed through the screen was inspiring. I always knew I wanted to tell stories. Seeing Pulp Fiction made me realize the medium I wanted to tell them in.

To be totally honest, this is a family obligation. There are businesses to take care of, and so I’m doing this. I don’t know what the future holds, really. Every day I miss filmmaking more and more, but being here is quite a character building experience. It’s a real change of scenery for me, more because I’m dealing with suits and straight-up corporate people, and I miss the crazy idiots I surround myself with everyday. I’m thinking of exploring the entertainment industry here, not necessarily as a director but maybe in marketing or development, because that’s what they’re gearing us up for anyway. It’s weird, for the first time in my life there isn’t really a plan, and I guess that’s kind of welcoming.

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In a nutshell, what is your latest movie, Rakenrol, about?

How is this different from your other movies?

Who are your favorite actors and actresses, both local and foreign?

I really love Parker Posey, she was just the most wonderful actress in the ‘90s. In terms of talent, my favorite actress is Julianne Moore. She just has so much depth and emotion.

Edward Norton is someone I loved a lot, but he hasn’t done much as of late. My favorite local actress is Cherie Gil. I was in an acting workshop with her, and she just blew me away. As for actors, I kind of miss Epy Quizon. And I know Aga Muhlach is capable of so much more, and really want to work with him one of these days.

If you were to create a film with a limitless budget, which filmmakers and actors would you like to work with?

I’d work with the people I mentioned above, and Liv Tyler just because she’s probably my biggest celebrity crush ever.

Or Angelina Jolie, because she has the talent to back that up. One of the best cinematographers is actually Filipino: Matthew Libatique, who did Black Swan and Iron Man. I’d love to work with that guy. And Jon Brion for score, who is one of the most brilliant musicians I’ve ever heard.

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The film is about many different people going through many different things. It’s about a guy falling in love with his girl best friend and how the closer they are to achieving their dreams, the further apart they become. It’s about a man who turned his back on the thing he loves and has the chance to redeem himself. It’s about a kid who is suddenly thrown into the responsibilities of being a man and the changes he has to make along the way. In many ways it’s an ensemble comedy, except the difference is that it’s set in the Philippine rock scene.

How did you come up with the idea for this movie?

I think I wanted to do something that wasn’t violent for once, hahaha! But in all seriousness, when I was a teenager, my co-writer, Diego and I would exchange all these stories about characters in the Filipino rock scene and one day I thought to myself, “We should immortalize these characters.”

Did real events and people influence the scenes and characters in the movie?

Most definitely. In fact, Jun Sabayton’s character was based on Jun Sabayton, pretty much—so we were lucky there. Most of the things in the movie really happened, from the satanic band to Jacci Rocha himself, to a lot of the more intimate stuff. It’s very personal, in that sense.

Where do you find inspiration for your films?

Anything and everything. Rakenrol was inspired by my and Diego’s life growing up in the band scene. The characters were based on our friends, the situations were based on real things we went through in our respective bands.

Keka, on the other hand, was inspired by ‘80s cheesy Pinoy comedies and serial killer movies. A lot of Wag Kang Lilingon was inspired by music videos. You kind of have to be open to these things 24/7, and jot an idea down on your phone when the opportunity presents itself.

What are your hopes for Philippine cinema?

I hope Filipino Cinema gains more ground abroad, because we really are doing amazing, amazing stuff. The last five years have really proven that Pinoy talent is awesome beyond belief, and the fact that people can make movies like Ang Babae sa Septic Tank and Senior Year on shoestring budgets is a testament to that. I’m really happy about our country’s cinema right now. There really is no other place to go but up. / / / /

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Setting out on an expedition to Pristina to join renowned Magnum photographer Nikos Economopoulos on a photography workshop, Keng-Fun Loh enthrals with her visual diary encapsulating the adventure of a lifetime / / / / Words and Images Keng-Fun Loh

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Magnum Trail

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Within 30 minutes into my flight from Munich to Pristina, I had a date. Well, sort of. Amidst trying to understand each other’s country and background with his limited English and my non-existent Albanian, seated next to me, the first person I met from Kosovo had invited me to his mother’s home to sample her cooking. I think it was out of exasperation on his part after giving up trying to explain what Kosovan food was like. This simple gesture of friendship that has ceased to exist in my part of the world was just a prelude to the kindness and friendship that I was to encounter in the week ahead.

He has been living in Munich with his wife and two kids for the past 10 years, making a living as a construction worker, and was on his way home to visit his sister and parents.

With over 40% unemployment at home, he explains with a tinge of resignation, he is just one of about 50% of the population who has left the country they love to find work.

For those who stay behind, the average monthly wages is about €250, which makes Kosovo Europe’s poorest country.

Kosovo is landlocked by Serbia to the north, Montenegro and Albania to the west and Macedonia to the South. In just under two hours, you can be in Pristina, her capital, from most major European airports. This country has such a troubled past, and though the war ended 12 years ago, her 90% ethnic-Albanian and under 10% ethic Serbian people are still torn and far from getting over their hatred of each other. The ethnic Albanians are mostly Muslim and the ethnic Serbs mainly Russian Orthodox Christians. Each side has its version of the atrocities during the war that scarred the nation visibly, both physically and emotionally.

A 20-year old ethnic Albanian student I befriended at the trendy Dit e Nat (that’s day and night) café in Pristina could not talk about what happened during the war without tearing up. She tells me that it would be unthinkable for her or her parents to have an ethnic Serb as a friend. As she eagerly volunteered her time to be our guide and translator with no other motive than some relief from studying for her finals, I wondered if friends from worlds outside of this painful past can truly provide relief? As a result of this divide, thousands of peacekeepers from around the world still ply the country, providing not only an image of security, job opportunities for the locals, but alas, also the demand for prostitutes that some say, fuelled a rise in forced prostitution, human trafficking and cheap motels along the highways.

Sounds like a depressing place, you might say. Why would I want to visit Kosovo, you may ask. In fact, most of the Kosovars I met asked me that. Well, I had unwittingly come to join renowned Magnum photographer Nikos Economopoulos on a photography workshop in Pristina, as it was his only one that fit my travel schedule. After spending 7 days gaining a new perspective on photography and human relations, visiting six schools and four cities, travelling through the surprisingly scenic countryside, and making scores of friends when taking their portraits, I am only incredibly grateful that I came.

Young people dominate this country. I am told 75% of the population is under 35 years of age—and while I cannot understand their obsession with sunglasses (hang out along the river banks in Prizren and you will understand what I mean) or ‘80s style evening gowns (there is a disproportionate number of shops in every city displaying elaborate sequined satin evening gowns), the ones I met impressed me as bright, curious, approachable, honest and more optimistic about their future than their parents.

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Their joie de vivre is also infectious. At the sight of hundreds of students and faculty in Prizren dancing outside the school—to the beat of two drums—to celebrate the last day of the school term, we stopped the car and left our cameras to join them.

It is interesting that the predominantly Muslim citizens do not adhere to the practices that we usually associate with their faith. Hardly any women here wear headscarves in public, men take only one wife at a time, and some Muslim families keep dogs as pets. During our visit to the only women’s section of a mosque in Pristina, I was moved by their tolerance when the twenty or so Muslim ladies there embraced us, even though I told them that I am Christian.

They put on our headscarves and taught us to pray with them, before agreeing to be photographed by us while they continued their prayers.

The Kosovars welcome most foreigners (except those they view as sympathetic to the Serbs during the war), whom they view as their liberators. It is kind of surreal to see this predominantly Muslim country fly the American flag next to theirs so pervasively. In Pristina, there is also a Bill Clinton Boulevard and statue to boot.

So you will feel completely safe here, unless you are seeking drugs, firearms, prostitutes, and casinos. I was told that the mafia controls most of these trades and most of the construction industry. Thankfully, tourism has not caught on, so you are neither hounded by touts, nor confronted with cheap souvenirs, nor fleeced at the shops and restaurants.

Of course, this also means that there are hardly any useful road signs for us self-drive tourists. So we relied on asking for directions at each intersection and double-checking them, as the proud locals would rather give you the wrong directions than admit they do not know the way.

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“Elza declares that she aspires to work in a bank when SHE grows up (like me, I said), so I asked Albijona what her plans were. She is only certain she would not be a doctor, explaining that ‘trees are our doctors’. Why do I feel that she was probably more mature than I ever was, even at twice her age?”

We made Pristina home base for the week at Hotel Sara for just €35 a night. The hotel was basic but clean, breakfast provided daily and you can do laundry for just €5 a load.

Nothing went missing even though there was no safe in the room and my luggage was never locked. In fact, throughout our stay, the chatty receptionist kept our passports (they hold them until you settle the bill) on the shelf for room keys behind the counter—well within reach and sight of the guests. Unlike most places that I travel to, there was an honour system here—I like.

Contrary to what I had expected from the poorest Eastern European country, we ate very well throughout the week.

Our first dinner was a feast at Ciao in Caglavica, just outside of Pristina, arguably one the best Serbian restaurants in Kosovo. With way too many starters, main courses (the pork ribs with cream cheese is a must-try), raki and coffee, the meal cost us only €10 each and that was the most we paid for any meal during the trip. One of the best ‘fine-dining’ restaurants in Pristina for traditional Albanian cuisine is at Pëllumbi. Order the Tavë Viçi (veal in a bread bowl), Speca me djathë dhe pogaqe (hot bread with cheese and spices) and enjoy that with a bottle of export quality red wine from Stone Castle, the winery in the region of Rahovec that produces 90% of the wines in Kosovo.

For the international crowd, there is no shortage of posh cosmopolitan places to dine. I liked Peoples, A&A, and De Rada; and for the best view, Pinocchio.

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“Amidst trying to understand each other’s country and background with his limited English and my nonexistent Albanian, seated next to me, the first person I met from Kosovo had invited me to his mother’s home to sample her cooking.”

During the week, we made day trips by car to the major cities of Prizren, Gjilan and Mitrovica. Along the way, the lakes and mountains transported me to the Swiss countryside.

The most interesting city was Mitrovica, which is south of the Serbian border, less than two hours from Pristina.

The short bridge over River Ibar divides Mitrovica into the Serbian North and Albanian South. In the South, life looks normal and there are signs of construction everywhere to renew roads and for the new residential high rises. Here on a Saturday when school was out, I met the vivacious Elza and Albijona, 10-year old best friends who skipped along as they eagerly showed me around their city. Albijona was preparing to travel the next morning to Tirana, the capital of neighboring Albania, to represent her school in a mathematics competition. Elza declares that she aspires to work in a bank when grows up (like me I said), so I asked Albijona what her plans were. She is only certain she would not be a doctor, explaining that ‘trees are our doctors.’ Why do I feel that she was probably more mature than I ever was, even at twice her age?

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North of the river, the scene is dismal. The Kosovo government does not support the community here and neither does the Serbian government, so the predominantly ethnic Serbs looked worn and wary, like their buildings and cars. You are greeted with posters of cult hero Putin everywhere, as Russia is the remaining superpower that refuses to recognize Kosovo’s self-declaration of independence. There is tension in the air that made me uncomfortable, the peace seemingly kept with a line of ten UN cars parked outside the UN facility just south of the bridge. As the ethnic Serbs here reject the standard RKS (Republic of Kosovo) license plates and use a KS version instead, I witnessed ethnic Albanians delivering supplies across the bridge stopping to remove their Republic of Kosovo plates before crossing, to avoid any incident.

In contrast to the grim images the past evokes, corroborated by the polluted grey skies of Pristina, the school kids I met were unabashed, curious and spunky. I had great fun trying to communicate with them while they tugged at my shirt, clamoring for their picture to be taken next, exchanging e-mail addresses, and Facebook names. Most of my free time between my subsequent travels in Munich and London was spent anxiously fulfilling my promise to send them their photos. Some of the kids have a really good command of English, which helped me connect since I had an appalling Albanian vocabulary. And with decent internet speeds and Facebook—the Kosovar’s social network du jour—I should not have been surprised that just about every kid could sing and dance to Justin Bieber’s ‘Baby,’ plus many other American pop songs. It was pure delight when the entire class of 10-year olds in one school broke out in that song for me while I photographed them. The principal was not

amused, and with wild imaginings of torture by the UCK rebel fighters in my head, my heart almost gave way as I was hauled (well not really, just sternly led) to his office by the unsmiling security guard, for what turned out to just be a polite interrogation and expulsion. By the time I left the school grounds, I was flushed with relief and warm memories of the kids. Happily, I am now regularly in touch online with most of them. I wonder if the unemployment rate will still be above 40% when they graduate.

Just this April, Kosovo’s parliament elected 35-year old Atifete Jahjaga as its first female president, a milestone even the U.S. has yet to achieve. The winds of change may come sooner than one can imagine. Make a trip to the Balkans and drop by Kosovo if you are seeking an authentic connection with people and are tired of seeing another McDonald’s around the corner, or of the usual party scene in Paris, Milan or London. Witness the architecture of the hundreds of stunning Serbian Orthodox Christian churches and monasteries that still remain, such as the GraÄ?anica Monastery, a UNESCO heritage site near Pristina. If nothing else, you may come away being a little more tolerant to ethnic differences at home, and add a whole lot of new friends to your Facebook page. / / / /

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/ / / / ”If you’re going to play with matches, make sure you don’t leave them around to spark the flame anew. Disco isn’t actually dead. And neither am I. XOXO“— Gossip Girl / / / /

Kelly Rutherford / / / / Images Martin Favis and Kariz Tanya Favis Words and Styling Kariz Tanya Favis Interview Neil Garguilo Make-up Klexius Kolby and Akemi Hair Britney and Jen Kim Photography Assistant Stephen Seidel Styling Assistant Amy Highfill

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Graphic print dress by marc by marc jacobs

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Fresh-faced and equally glamorous as her TV persona, Kelly Rutherford talks fashion, family, and more about that sexy show

kelly’s grace OMG. The woman has hardly aged, was my first thought.

The call time for this shoot was at 8 AM in Beverly Hills, and yet Kelly has already made some purchases at Urth Café in West Hollywood, including one freshly squeezed OJ (as she has taken to an organic lifestyle). She arrives at our studio looking very casual French in a striped shirt, jeans, and a camel Hermès trench—more about that in a second. When I was younger, the TV show Melrose Place was a huge hit, and I remember how I always thought Kelly (AKA Megan Lewis Mancini) had such a fine-looking face. Time is undeniably on this 43-year old TV star’s side.

Aside from her 4-year stint at Melrose, Kelly also caused a stir abroad in her earlier days as a TV actress—in Turkey, specifically, as Sam Whitmore on a show called Generations. “I went there a while ago and I loved it! It’s such a beautiful country.” Recent interest again sparked about Kelly when she returned in another giant of a show, the teen drama with a cult following called Gossip Girl as socialite, Lily van der Woodsen. It’s hard to hold your own when co-starring with the likes of starlets like Blake Lively, and it has to be believable that the latter’s genetics (on the show, at least) came from someone extraordinary as well.

It’s even arguable to some as to whom between Kelly or Blake is, in fact, prettier.

Nowadays, Kelly’s main role is that of a single mother to two children from a divorce with businessman husband,

Daniel Giersch. Her son, Hermés Gustaf Daniel Giersch was born when she was already 37, and daughter, Helena Grace Giersch, when she was 40. Both are both blond and beautiful—very much like their mother. I inquired about her multi-tasking skills. “You know…I’m pretty much a full-time mom with a part-time job on a show called Gossip Girl.

And that’s how I do it. I don’t work that much. They’ve been very generous with my schedule and with my desire to be a mother, so it’s worked out great.” When asked about her similarities with her character on the show, she states that, “Lily van der Woodsen has definitely been doing this a lot longer than I have. She has grown kids, so she has a certain wisdom in the way her character’s written that I really admire. I love that she’s not afraid to say, ‘I’m sorry’ to her kids if she messes up. We’re both very dedicated mothers, but I think she’s very different. She lives in the Upper East Side, she has an unlimited budget, and her kids are a little older. For me, it’s very simple. I’m much more of a hands-on mother, on a day-to-day basis.”

Her eldest son has quite the controversial moniker. “We kind of came up with it last minute. We had a bunch of names. At my baby shower, we wanted to come up with a name that was very strong and had some sort of meaning. ‘Hermes’ is the Greek messenger god—he’s equal to Mercury— and we figured the world could use a few more of those (Smiles). And also, my friend jokes that he’s gonna grow up wondering why his name is on all the boxes in my house, haha, because I love the store…”

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“Lily van der Woodsen has definitely been doing this a lot longer than I have. She has grown kids, so she has a certain wisdom in the way her character’s written that I really admire. I love that she’s not afraid to say, ‘I’m sorry’ to her kids if she messes up.”

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Since most of the TV show’s plot and scenes is risqué for younger audiences, I wondered at what age she would allow her kids to see their mom in it. “You know, by the time they’re old enough to watch, they’re going to be like, ‘Mom, what’s Gossip Girl?’ You know what I mean? (Laughs) It’s sort of like they’re going to say, ‘Who are the Beatles?

Oh yeah, that was that band you liked when I was growing up.’” And as for the kind of man on the show that she hopes her son will grow up to be most like? “Dan [Penn Badgley’s character]. Because I think he’s smart, he has good values.

He obviously has good taste in women, as he was dating my daughter!”

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Family obviously plays a big role in Rutherford’s life. As the eldest of four siblings, she recalls, “I took over immediately when my brother was born, haha! I always loved the holidays with him, and shopping with my mom. I think my mom was told by her doctor that the best thing was to let the older sibling help, and I took it very seriously. She always let me help with my younger brother, and that’s why we’re so close today.” She takes after her mother, model and writer Ann Edwards, in the sense that, “We both like fashion and interior design. We both love kids and spending a lot of time together.” Kelly reportedly lists Hermès (naturally), Lanvin, Son Jung Wan, Magaschoni, Van Cleef & Arpels, Brunello Cucinelli, Celine, Barneys, as among her favored brands and designers. I received an email shortly after the shoot that Kelly had left behind her favorite camel Hermès coat at our studio, and she picks it up herself a day or two after.

We talk for a few minutes by the front door about how she’s looking for a new place to live at, since her previous one in West Hollywood held too many memories about her thenrecent and publicized divorce.

While working long hours on a show with two small children in tow as a single parent may be tough, Kelly unwinds simply. “We take long walks. For me, what’s relaxing is going to the play center with my son and watching him, or going to the park and being outside. Sometimes, I have time to have someone over to get a massage, or I try to get to a yoga class. It doesn’t always happen, but I try. Being with Hermes is very relaxing to me, and sometimes, even just being on the set. It used to be boring to be in my trailer, but now it’s okay to have a little time for myself, too.” / / / /

RUTHERFORD AT A GLANCE: With Gossip Girl co-stars Ed Westwick, Leighton Meester, Jessica Szohr, Chace Crawford and Matthew Settle; Atthe set of Gossip Girl with on-screen daughter, Blake Lively; With celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe; Withthe cast of Melrose PlAce

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“Hermes is the Greek messenger god—he’s equal to Mercury—and we figured the world could use a few more of those.”

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It’s no surprise that Divine lee begins her interview with a jovial jab topped with gay terminology—a definite nod to who she really is both on and off camera: fun, witty, glamorous, and of course, one of the reigning icons of the nation’s gay community. But despite all the titles, “heiress” is not one for her to own, even if her father, real estate magnate Delfin Lee, sits atop Globe Asiatique

Interventions w/ Divine / / / / Images Martin & Kariz Tanya Favis Words and Styling Kariz Tanya Favis

Interview Valerie Anne del Castillo and Kristine Dabbay Additional Images Mark Cabalang Make Up Byron Velasquez of MAC Cosmetics Hair Vicky Gabutan of Jing Monis Salon Shot on location at Zamora Residence

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“My God, all of the gay icons are beautiful—Madonna, Cher.”

Bodysuit by DEPT, stylist’s own; On background: SILVER SNAKE SKIN PUMPS, LIME GREEN PUMPS, BOTH BY CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN, RED AND BLACK PUMPS BY VIKTOR & ROLF, all model’s own

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Divine Lee enters the shoot after lunch with her boyfriend, the actor and model, Victor Basa. She hurriedly but politely asks for a restroom and excuses herself to administer a shot on her stomach area—a task that the busy BF was brought for, since she says she’s quite afraid of needles and needs someone else to do it for her. If I remember right, I think it has to do with a reproductive/hormonal health issue that needs to be corrected. She gets out from the restroom and the fly of her skinny jeans was left open under a hanging top that shows where the injection was done. She mentions it probably wouldn’t be best to show her bare midriff in the photos. Fantastic that it wasn’t in any of my styling layouts anyway. Divine apologizes for pushing back the shoot an hour and for her tardiness. I tell her it’s not a problem (honestly, what could you ever say to these things?)—really, it wasn’t— because she had that earnest look that told you she tried her best to be there on time but something important (perhaps it was her earlier meeting or the quick chow at a nearby Max’s) that got in the way. All’s well. //// SPARK: What’s up with you lately, Divine?

Divine: What’s up? Ceiling. Chos. (Laughs) Nothing much.

Busy day. Excited for Christmas. I have a lot of charities, so I’m preparing for all their Christmas parties which is fun, especially for Child Haus, the kids are very excited for it. //// This is not my first encounter with the marvelous Ms. Lee. I resided in the US for several years straight prior to 2010 and was dealing with mostly things Hollywood for our publishing company there, and was not really aware of this girl’s meteoric rise to fame and notoriety. Some claim it was largely in part due to her press appearances for her father’s real estate company, Globe Asiatique, coupled with partying in the right social scene (with a Brazilian model man as her arm candy back then). Imagine a new, lithe, social darling with a hot face in tow? The formula for upper crust, elite status material.

Going back—I first stumbled upon her name in a Philippine Fashion Week children’s show for SM, where I brought along some favorite companions—my two daughters. I went ahead to secure our seats, and my little ladies followed suit with their nannies. What struck me from a distance was that they were ‘walking’ a dog balloon with four legs that somehow bounces on the floor on its tippy-toes. And because I’ve lived in the US for quite some time, my initial reaction was that the inflatable toy was gifted by some lurking pedophile. I had to reassure myself that we don’t really have these perpetrators in Manila, because people here (what more sex offenders or criminals), are non-confrontational. Regardless, the balloon was not spared from serious sanitizing sprays that bled its ink. I questioned my daughters if they remember who gave it, and they said it was a woman in a red dress. After the show, the girls saw the lady in red walking, and they excitedly pointed her out. I breathed a silent sigh of relief that it wasn’t some perv, and shouted out a “thank you,” to which she replied back with an, “Oh, you’re welcome!” One of my editors whispered to me that the woman’s name is “Divine Lee,” and that she is a popular style and gender-bender idol— and this bit of trivia came from a homosexual man. ////

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halfway house for children with cancer. At first, it was very hard for Victor and myself to become attached, because they would be gone. But can you imagine the other children waiting? We also rescued this whole area during Ondoy, and I became too emotional that I could not let them go just like that. What I did was, since we have [the clothing line] Luca, we got all our sewers from them—so now they have livelihood. We also work with PAWS because I’m so into animals, but Vic is more into it, because I’m scared of bigger animals. I just like small dogs. //// The shoot mood was pleasurable and copacetic, especially for a group working together for the first time. It has to be noted that the only “diva” in Divine is the fabulous wardrobe that she is known for. Gave us none of the obsessive, “Who’s doing my hair/make-up/photographer?” that is in fact, awarded to individuals with the cult celebrity status she has achieved.

She reminds me of that Cameron Diaz charisma in “There’s Something About Mary,” only Divine can Swardspeak and peppers her sentences with words like “chos,” which is gay slang for “whatever.” She is salt of the earth, this one. In between takes, where she only pauses for cigarette breaks or to be retouched for hair and make-up, she regales us with anecdotes—of how she was requested to withdraw from a Catholic all-girls school, and ended up having a ball when she moved academes. //// S: You’re always one of the featured “It Girls.”

D: Who said I was a girl? (Laughs) Don’t believe them.

S: You’re known as a gay icon. How does that feel?

D: Flattered! My God, all of the gay icons are beautiful— Madonna, Cher. Think about it, they all have one thing in common—big hair! Among all women, to be chosen as one—and I think more than who I am, it’s what I believe in and what I stand for—that they’re vying for. I’m part of Ladlad. I’m not gay—I just look it, but what’s unfortunate that I always see with my friends, like they get insulted.

You know, when you’re just walking somewhere, and then, someone shouts, “Oy, bakla! Bakla!” I hate it when they people do that. I end up fighting with that person, whoever it is. I’m not asking for a special lane on EDSA, or a special drive-thru at McDonald’s. What I’m asking for is just same treatment—the same way you would do it with your brother or your sister. I think that’s what they see—it’s not really the big hair, the curly hair, or the high heels of Divine—but what I’m fighting for. //// Fast-forward to our photo shoot—I reminded Divine about the incident with my kids. She lights up and says she remembers it (honestly, what could she say to these things?).

My daughters (who come with me to practically every shoot) surprised her with a homemade card. She gives them her heartfelt thanks for the gesture, and tells me that she loves being around children, which is why she is ensuring her ‘baby-making’ skills are all a go with the abovementioned injections. //// S: What are your other causes?

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S: (Laughs) What were you like in high school?

D: I came from Assumption, and for high school, I went to Brent. I was pretty normal. I guess I was a little pilya because I would go out a lot. I was one of the first who started driving.

It’s not because I was a rebel, or anything. It’s just that my dad didn’t want to pay for a driver because he didn’t want to spoil us. He’s like, “No driver. Share a car with someone, or learn how to drive.” I was known to be always late in class, not because I wake up late. It’s because I have to curl my hair, and that’s a given fact in the whole school—even though I lived right across it. Unbelievable, but yes, I was an honor student from high school to college. I was very fun, but I’m not athletic at all. The closest I got to that was when I competed for the Philippine team for ice skating. I was forced by my mom to do that. But I can’t run. They knew me in PE as the one who had all kinds of allergies—“I’m allergic to chlorine”—just so that I wouldn’t swim. //// There is also that unspoken elephant in the room, the one about a scandal that involves her father, Delfin Lee’s, company. But why spoil a wonderful afternoon, when we can talk about something more interesting—like that Maserati she reportedly owns, and how she started selling bags, homes, and knick-knacks, for instance. //// S: Is it true that you own a Maserati?

D: No, I don’t own it. But yes, I like cars—but I buy and sell cars! That’s one thing that people don’t know. So they think, “Oh my God, ang gaganda ng kotse niya.” Yeah, because I buy and sell. What will I do with the car, just leave it in the garage? It’s like that I guess, because I’m Chinese. Anything I like, I end up making it a business. I don’t like things staying

“I am not an heiress. I don’t know who started that rumor. I was cut off when I was 17. ”

Hide Face sweater by Marithé + François Girbaud, P5,800

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with me for a long time ‘cause I feel that it loses its value.

S: How many siblings do you have?

D: I have stepsiblings. If you count both sides and combine them, I’m in the middle. I guess my Kuyas and my Ates, they kinda broke our parents in, because my parents were not so strict with me. I’m the lenient one in the family.

S: Did they ever play the older sibling card with you?

D: No, because we lived in different houses. My dad was very strict in a way that he wouldn’t give you money or allowance. That’s why I started working early as a model because our deal was, “Choose whatever school you want to go to, I’ll pay for the tuition, but everything else, you pay for it.” So of course, you’re in Brent, and you have classmates who have nice stuff and you want the same things, but your

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dad refuses to buy it for you. I started working early, from modeling to buy-and-sell, and then I went to Hong Kong, and lived there.

S: How long did you stay in Hong Kong?

D: I would go back and forth for three years. I was modeling.

Back then, the Brazilian invasion hadn’t struck yet, so we were getting paid quite well. I was about 18, and my dad would always say, “You won’t earn from modeling.” I really thought about it, so what I did was a lot of buy-and-sell.

When you’re in Hong Kong, people will ask you to shop for them, then I would sell it at a higher price, to the point that I had a tiangge in Greenhills and participated in bazaars, and then I would always go to my dad’s office. I was thinking, all of his staff is my captured market, so I would sell to them.

My dad would always say, “Lahat may gives na sa’yo. Why don’t you start selling something else? Like houses and lots.” I’m like, he’s right, why don’t I try? So for the longest time, he would not pay me wages. Up to now, he still won’t pay me. (Laughs) He honestly thinks that we can’t work together because I’m too opinionated. I think that among all of his kids, I’m the loudest. What he did was, he made it harder for me, so I had to start my own company. Eventually, the people I sell houses to became my friends. I would help them design their house.

Shift dress by HERMéS; Jewelry by SM ACCESSORIES; On background: RED AND BLACK PUMPS BY VIKTOR & ROLF; Black Skull heels by Kermit Tesoro; Silver and black snake skin booties by Alexander McQueen, all model’s own s park

Trench coat by HERMèS

I had friends who are architects, interior, and then we started our own construction firm. Everybody thought that I was working for my dad when actually, I have my own firm, and that firm is subcontracting for my dad. That’s the real setup. It’s fun in a way, like your dad is your boss but you’re not employed by him.

S: What’s the name of the firm?

D: Jagnus 10, because there are 10 of us.

S:What school did you go to for college? Business course?

D: I went to Ateneo for Economics because I was so into all the movies, like Boiler Room and Blue Chips. I always wanted to do the whole stock exchange thing, and then I realized that I guess it’s in my blood, my being Chinese, that I really look at the goods. But I still tried my luck in stocks.

My first love will always be creating something. I’d buy a house, fix it up, and then sell it. I’ve found the niche that I’ve always wanted.

S: You’re often tagged as a real estate executive, but what is the best and most exciting thing about your job?

D: I’m everything. (Laughs) They say real estate executive, yes, but with whatever opportunity comes my way, I’m not scared to try it. Like now, I’m doing TV, which is Extreme Makeover for TV5. I just started build-and-sell, which is not really like a real estate developer. I’m just focusing on one house, and another. Our group started with boutique townhouses, too. It’s quite exciting for me to do things on my own. Before, we’d just contract, which means that it’s their design, and you have to follow it. This time, we have more of a free hand to do things because we’ve saved up.

But I don’t think I’m anywhere near my dad. I’m far from it, but I really enjoy what I do.

S: How do you manage your job on top of modeling,

entertaining, and hosting? You have so much going on.

D: I can’t have one day wherein I’m not doing anything. I like that as long as I can fit something into [my schedule], I’d do it, one after the other. I don’t do anything half-baked.

When I started blogging, people are like, “Grabe, she posts everyday!” I’m like, I’m here now, right? I might as well write it all. I also think that while I don’t have a family of my own yet, I have more time to do things. When I do have a kid, it’s a totally different story. I want to be focused on my child. I’m not getting any younger, right?

S: How’s your relationship with Victor like?

D: Carry naman. (Laughs) We’re schoolmates from Brent, so I know his older sisters. He was my barkada for about a good 8 years before we got together, because we’ve known each other since grade school. He wasn’t a model or actor then. It was a big shock to everyone when they found out that we were together, because we’ve been friends for so long. Well I guess the time is right—or nauto niya ako this time. (Laughs) It’s a fun relationship because we’re friends and then magjowa rin kami. It’s a shift.

S: How do you deal with it being in front of— D: The cameras? Oh, you can hide it if you really want to hide it. (Laughs) I honestly believe that. But we have nothing to hide. Maybe if we had a problem, then it’s a different thing. But there are things that you keep private. I’m so not against this whole public thing, because that’s us. When we go out, we’re happy, and then it just so happens that there’s a camera. I was never scared to admit anything.

S: Best vacation spots you’ve been to?

D: Vic’s schedule is very hard because he does the whole teleserye thing which is from 7 AM to 7 AM, the next day. For him to get a break, it’s really during Holy Week, Christmas, that’s it. Last Holy Week, he went for the first time with my

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“I don’t think I’m anywhere near my dad, I’m far from it.

But I really enjoy what I do.”

Gray plaid scarf by burberry; Green print dress

by H&M; Purple/Blue Birkin bag by HERMèS

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friends. He used to not come along, it was just me, because he’s taping. So it’s his first time with Tessa [Prieto-Valdes], Rajo [Laurel]. We went to Russia. But the most memorable ones are like after his taping and I’m craving for bulalo and he hasn’t slept yet, but he’ll bring me to Tagaytay just for that. I was like, there’s bulalo in IC, why do we have to go so far? Sweet things like that.

S: How do you unwind?

D: People find it funny but I’m really OC. I label everything.

All my MAC makeup has a name in front, so I don’t have to look behind. You know the free stuff at the hotel? I’ll transfer it to a bigger bottle, and use it with a pump. Or, I play with my dog. I’m very close to my dog, and he sleeps on the bed with me. With Vic, whenever we have free time, he wants me to stay home, so he gives me my labeler, and then I sweep and butingting the whole house. He cooks. We have our own turf. His is the kitchen, and mine is everything that I can label in the house, I’ll label it. //// My second encounter with this 29-year old businesswoman is at another fashion episode. This time around, she served both as designer and model for the denim giant, Levi’s. I recall seeing her on the runway and marveling at her endless legs and waistline. I swore you could fit both your hands around it. She’s a pant size 25 on a 5’8” person, if anyone’s interested in that information. Divine hurriedly packs up her suitcase filled with the insanely sexy (size 10) footwear we requested her to bring. //// S: You support local designers. Who are your favorites?

D: I have so many favorites, like Rajo, who’s my mentor.

Some of the other designers, I’ve seen them even when they were just students. They became big names, like Martin Bautista, Veejay Floresca. I’ve seen some who are very talented, but did not succeed, and I feel bad for that. When I started during the batch of Martin and Avel [Bacudio], they did so well. When I saw the younger ones, I taught them. Most creative people, they don’t know how to manage a business, so I teach them. I ask, “How come your costings are sometimes palugi?” A lot have graduated from me, like Martin, Veejay, Patrick Galang, Regine Dulay.

Now my target is Kermit Tesoro. He’s really something else.

He’s out-of-this-world. For me, he’s the Alexander McQueen of the Philippines, and maybe not just here, because now he’s doing Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj—but he has no sense of direction at all. But of course, the masters are still there, which is Pepito [Albert], the Inno Sotto, and I just recently saw Pitoy [Moreno], and I was just crying and crying. I would say we’re starting to have a really strong local brand identity like with the Bayo’s, Plains and Prints’, they’re getting better. Especially Folded and Hung—I like it, it’s like the Topshop of the Philippines.

S: What are your fashion and beauty must-haves?

D: A plain white shirt. Actually, not mine, Victor’s. I always borrow it, and he hates it because he can’t find it, and it’s always in my closet. It’s a plain white long-sleeved shirt that you can make it into a jacket, or a dress. I also like a good

black blazer, a black leather jacket, and very well-fitting black pants. People don’t take that too seriously, but it’s important that you have one pair of pants that fit perfectly, that you can run to it when you have a problem, or you know, a bad day. As for beauty, I like trying out stuff that’s why people would see that in my blog. Never sleep with makeup on, and on certain days, don’t wear makeup, let your face breathe a bit.

S: Top three or five things you advice about business?

D: Number one is to start as early as possible, and never think it’s too late. I started when I was 15 because of need.

If my Dad gave me allowance, maybe I wouldn’t have. It’s okay to dream—I guess that’s the second thing. You dream, and then you work for it. Just don’t steal it or something.

You make it a goal, because it is possible. Another thing that people don’t know is, no, I am not an heiress. I don’t know who started that rumor. I was cut off when I was 17.

Everything I have is mostly a business—my business, which is, yeah, I have a nice Maserati, but it’s for sale. (Laughs) So if you guys wanna buy it, just tell me. Another tip would be to love what you do. Love the craft. Not just the money, the profit. And time management. It’s possible for you to do it all, if you list down everything. Don’t rely so much on your brain, even if you have photographic memory. I had to teach myself scheduling because I was a working student. Right after school, I knew I had three hours to go to a show, or something like that. Are those five tips already?

S: Three, four.

D: As for saving money, I know we all like glamorous things.

I will be a hypocrite if I say that I don’t like pretty things— but see if you can make it into a business, like bags. I started selling bags because I wanted it, but then I knew I couldn’t afford it, but I can make money out of it, so I’ll just buy it and re-sell it. It will come. Save up for it. Live within your means. Don’t force it because you can work hard for it. Try not to get into debt. Make sure that during rainy days, there’s something you can get from the bank or something.

Start early when saving for a house. Let’s say, something goes wrong. That was my first fear. I was living with my dad and he said, “Oh, after you, it’s your sister’s [turn]. You have to find your own place.” When I got sick with really acute anemia, I had to stop going to Hong Kong. I’m like, shucks, how will I pay for rent? If you own your place, you don’t worry about that. So that’s when I started thinking that I have to buy a condo unit. //// She asks us when her story is coming out because she says she’ll Tweet about it (which means the more than 83,000 followers of @divinemlee will be alerted—not bad for a nonactress in this country). She rushes off to another meeting, with those long, gorgeous locks (with some built-in hair extensions, she candidly tells) and infinite legs. It ends well. ////

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all dolled up Spruce up your fashion play with these festive ensembles from ADORA that will take you from day to night

/ / / / Images Diego Jose Styling Kariz Tanya Favis Make Up Pia Gonzales of Paul & Joe Hair Jojo Feratir of Salon @ Hamptons Model Katja Rodriguez All clothing, shoes, and accessories from ADORA

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OPPOSITE PAGE: Green pleated dress by JASPAL, P4,950; White sandals by STELLA LUNA, P10,800 THIS PAGE: Eleonor Dress All Over by DR. DENIM, P3,950; Purple laced pumps

by SCHUTZ, P6,950; Gray Heloise Sac shoulder bag

by CHLOé, P59,800

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OPPOSITE PAGE: Orange draped dress by HARLAN + HOLDEN, P4,450; Purple laced pumps

by SCHUTZ, P6,950 THIS PAGE: Black studded dress by JASPAL, P3,850; Glittered silver flats

by PRETTY BALLERINA, P7,950; Black MarcieTrousse pouch by CHLOé, P36,800

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OPPOSITE PAGE: Red blouse by JASPAL, P3,350; Green vest by HARLAN + HOLDEN, P3,650 (with dress); Black and gray heels by STELLA LUNA, P12,800; Gray Heloise Sac shoulder bag by CHLOé, P59,800 THIS PAGE: Black ruffled dress by HARLAN + HOLDEN, P7,950

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Edge is not only defined by groundbreaking style— it’s in the attitude. Marilen Montenegro breaks the femme basics with fab meets grunge, where sophistication is fueled by spunk

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L’Arbre de Vie Cashmere and silk Shawl in Fuschia by HERMÈS; Denim dress by DIESEL, stylist’s own

/ / / / Images Kariz Tanya and Martin Favis Styling Kariz Tanya Favis Make Up Toni Aviles of Paul & Joe Hair Obet Federizo of Louis Phillip Kee

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Coat by PORTS 1961; Scarf by DIESEL, both stylist’s own; Gray top by MARKS & SPENCER; Pale blue jeans by BEN SHERMAN, stylist’s own; Black MARY JANE SHOES by MARKS & SPENCER

AW East Village gray dress by AUTOGRAPH BY MARKS & SPENCER, P1,950; Scarf used as bracelet by Hermès, stylist’s own spar k

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Top and skirt, both by BURBERRY; Purse by SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

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Long dress in corail and 90cms Silk Scarf Magic Kelly in Noir (used as belt), both by HERMĂˆS; Key West Sandal in Patent Leather by LOUIS VUITTON, P38,500

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02 MICHELIS By using the finest materials and the best local silversmiths available, Michelis creates unique and distinctive designs in a more environmentally friendly method. Starting out in a small retail shop, they are now internationally recognized for their high-quality work, with over 50 collections of premium sterling silver gifts and jewellery for men and women.

Available at Michelis Rustan’s Tower, Rustan’s Ermita, Alabang Town Center, Greenbelt 5, The Block, Podium, SM Megamall, and Mandarin Oriental

01 BULGARI MON JASMIN NOIR

FRUITS & PASSION

Dedicated to a young woman revealing her character through her vivacious spirit, this fragrance has a unique bond of accords that evolves into an eau de parfum that is exquisitely sensual, without compromising her refined, irresistibly artful beauty. It offers a luminous and addictive scent, with a resolutely intimate and modern soul that every woman can embody.

It starts with the brand drawing inspiration from nature and creating new effective products that are always mindful of the environment. Their new range of ambiance fragrances does just that. The collection includes candles, hand soaps, and fragrances that come in six different scents. They also offer refills to help extend the life of original bottles and reduce waste.

Available at Rustan’s Makati, The Landmark Makati, and SM Department Stores

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Available at Fruits & Passion Greenbelt 3, Bonifacio High Street, Alabang Town Center, Rustan’s Department Store Shangri-La Plaza Mall and Trinoma

Beef Tastes Better.

Premium Quality Meats Landmark Supermarket Makati . Trinoma

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IN-DEPTH RESEARCH PAVED A WAY FOR CASSINA TO CREATE HIGHPERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS IN THE FORM OF A SLEEK NEW COLLECTION THAT MARRIES CULTURE AND NATURE / / / / Images Courtesy of Cassina and FurnItalia Words Valerie Anne del Castillo

HAIL OR

HIGH WATER

This is the seat of power—to maximize resistance to water and other extreme conditions. The LC1 outdoor chair, LC3 outdoor armchair, and two seater sofa are just two of the dynamic pieces from Cassina’s first Outdoor Collection, which innovatively interprets some of the most important designs of Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanerette, and Charlotte Perriand for outdoor use. Cassina especially updated the materials and construction details of the products to withstand extreme weather conditions. Highly-polished INOX steel is used to reinterpret the classic chrome frame of the original crafted with high silver-content welding to

ensure its weather resistance. The cushions have been updated with self-draining polyurethane inserts while the padding is made from 100% biodegradable, natural and allergy-free materials, creating a quick-drying, ultralight hollow fiber with high air content that hinders water stagnation that may lead to mold and unpleasant odors.

Fabrics come in two impressive selections­—PVC-coated high-durability polyester fabric and an exclusive stain-proof acrylic yarn, both guaranteeing excellent color fastness and resistance to water, oil-based substances, and UV rays. / / / / CASSINA FURNITURE AVAILABLE AT FURNITALIA, 30th St. corner Rizal Drive, Crescent Park, West Bonifacio, Global City, 8191887

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ADVERTORIAL

With Meralco’s up and coming prepaid retail electric service, the power to manage and monitor your consumption is literally in your hands / / / / Words Rosario Santiago Images Vince Golangco of WhenInManila.com

MERALCO’s Prepaid Service

In recent years, practically all the modern comforts we now take for granted have evolved from the long-term commitment of postpaid contracts, to the transitory convenience of prepaid relationships. Unless my neurons have succumbed immensely to advancing age, I seem to recall that it all started with mobile phone networks. To better serve the multitude of cellular phone subscribers, many of whom don’t necessarily want to be burdened with a monthly bill, telecommunications firms came out with the prepaid setup, where users can just keep topping up to stay in touch. After some time, the landline industry followed, and soon after, so did cable TV and the internet. For the upscale set, prepaid doesn’t appear to be the knee-jerk option, but this could very well change come 2012, with the dawning of the Prepaid Retail Electric Service (or PRES, which is only the project name given to this up and coming service) from MERALCO. As the name implies, PRES is the power company’s foray into the prepaid niche, offering consumers a smart alternative to the long-standing status quo. But PRES goes far beyond the typical definition of prepaid services. The basic concept remains the same—providing subscribers access to a utility, in smaller denominations, with the option to continue availing of said service via subsequent loading or top-ups. Yet, MERALCO’s upcoming offering is actually so much more sophisticated and empowering—pun not intended. With this new prepaid option, MERALCO literally puts the power in the hands of its consumers.

With PRES, MERALCO subscribers can manage their accounts by simply punching in a set of key words or phrases on their mobile phones. Among the transactions they can conduct via SMS are account activation and enrollment to this service, registration of family members who can gain access to the account, as well as user or MERALCOinitiated disconnection and reconnection. The days of servicemen coming to your home and clipping your meter to cut power will (thankfully) soon become a thing of the dark ages (again, pun not intended). With this impending automation, disconnection can simply be implemented by the supplier, all the way from what they call a smart grid, and with the help of a smart meter. Similarly, subscribers

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themselves can opt out of their service by disconnecting and reconnecting it as needed, by simply sending out the appropriate commands via text message.

Aside from account management, this prepaid-powered portal also offers easy access real-time credit and consumption monitoring. With it, registered users can easily stay on top of their electric service, thanks to the push-threshold warning, designed to warn them when they’re about to exhaust their prepaid power supply. Aside from keeping them apprised of their peso and estimated kWh balance, this facility also allows consumers to keep track of previous transactions, and affords them access to consumption forecasts and estimates based on their usage history. They can compare current to past expenditure, and determine periods of efficient utilization, as well as patterns of excessive use. On a broader scale, they can even check how their own consumption stacks up against the neighborhood average, allowing them to adjust their usage accordingly, although these features will be available later in the future.

With such highly proactive commands readily available through existing telecommunications channels, MERALCO’s Prepaid Retail Electric Service has the potential for more versatile applications for a wider range of people.

For university students taking up residence in studios or sharing flats with friends, PRES is the intelligent solution to achieving and maintaining pocket-friendly cost of living.

The same can be said for young urban professionals just venturing out into the corporate jungle. MERALCO’s coming prepaid service can be their new best friend in managing household expenses, as it promises to do away with hairraising bills.

For young, independent entrepreneurs who don’t receive regular income or on a regular basis, PRES will also allow them to manage their electricity as their funds become available. Imagine the versatility of this technology, which will make managing one’s budget so much easier.

For the more established and financially independent, PRES can become a valuable ally in controlling electric consumption in vacation houses, and properties for rent.

Thanks to the specially designed smart meters, these homeowners can cut off power at their holiday and/or rental homes when they’re unoccupied, and restore service during periods of occupancy all at the touch of a button on their tablets or mobile phones. They can also track usage in these units, to monitor how caretakers and housesitters are consuming electricity.

Indeed, MERALCO’s prepaid service looks to deliver more consumers from uncontrolled electric consumption and the resulting skyrocketing dues. It takes the guess work out of budgeting monthly expenses, and truly empowers the subscriber. It also assures us of improved power outage management, thanks to the smart grid. With this in place, MERALCO can reduce their turnaround time for restoring power significantly, as the smart grid will immediately identify the source of the power failure, allow them to isolate it and send out personnel to address the trouble.

Set for a soft launch sometime this month, PRES is due to become available next year, as the first of many smart innovations MERALCO has in store. If this is a sample of what’s to come in the very near future, then things are definitely looking brighter than ever. / / / /

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When aging becomes a problem for those who want to remain eternally young and beautiful, we count on science to come up with a solution. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome Hormone Replacement Therapy / / / / Words Dr. Windie Hayano

PHENBREAKTHROUGHS

Comic and graphic artist Caryn Leschen once said that “Thirty-five is when you finally get your head together and your body starts falling apart.” She is not alone in her sentiment. For a lot of women, 35 means having a stable and successful job while running a household…one that comes with a husband, a child or two (and depending on one’s status in life, a battalion of household staff to keep that household running while wearing heels) plus the occasional pet (in whatever form that may be). Symptoms are nondescript with complaints ranging from “feeling bloated to feeling helpless.” Just how many quotes are there about the “unpredictability” and “mood swings” of women especially during “that time of the month” or during the throes of menopause. After going through a battery of tests and countless visits to several “specialists,” results come out normal and you’re just given the requisite response of “just take a few days off and rest.” So how do you explain this physical and mental decline when modern medicine tells you one thing yet your body says otherwise? The answer may be as simple as it is complicated: hormones.

Hormones are our powerful chemical messengers in the body. They travel in the blood stream to take effect in tissues and organs and are important in the body’s many different processes ranging from growth and development, metabolism, sexual function, immune function, reproduction and psychological function. Just look at teenagers, pregnant women, diabetics and well, trans-gender males and females and it’s easy to see that these small molecules pack a punch.

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Like everything else in the body, hormone levels change with the passage of time. These fluctuations on how hormones are made and released are also influenced by many factors ranging from diet, too much or lack of exercise, toxins, too much or too little vitamins, antibiotics, stress, pregnancy, illness and the like. Let’s just take for example the menstrual cycle, women are probably at their most beautiful during ovulation. Women will generally feel and look energized, radiant and sexy and it will show (this of course is part of natural selection and is vital in the game of procreation).

Unfortunately, this can be followed by the nasty PMS or pre-menstrual syndrome (that men don’t understand but perennially have to put up with or avoid) that leaves women with acne, bloating, craving for salty sweet food and well, cranky to deal with.

Imagine being in a perpetual period of PMS, like being in that kind of rut day in and day out. Women go through this period everyday and it’s called MENOPAUSE. No sex drive, vaginal dryness, lack of interest, hair loss, collagen and bone loss (which translates to premature aging), memory loss, insomnia, depression etc. It’s a long list of a constellation of symptoms that well, put together in one person will just equate to the stereotypical picture everyone is familiar with…a B-tchy, bloated, bummed-out, borderline, broad!

When you think about it, it’s not a trifling matter considering the physical and emotional trauma a woman has to face with not much answers given except sometimes a whole load of pills ranging from anti-depressants to anti-psychotics.

Anti-aging specialists advocate the use of Bio-identical Hormones to replace what has been lost or what is lacking.

This is usually done following a battery of tests (usually a panel of blood, urine and saliva tests) to detect hormone function and levels followed by a careful assessment of the patients lifestyle, diet, work, etc. What makes hormone replacement therapy very controversial is the

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argument that dosing and protocol does not go through what modern medicine demands from drug therapies. This means randomized multi-center double blind trials that are conducted through years and years of testing.

Hormone Replacement Therapy is in fact something that has been practiced in medicine. Insulin for diabetes, oral contraceptive pills, and thyroid hormone replacement are examples of such therapy. The controversy of HRT lies on how it’s given, who gives it, why it is given, and in what form. Most of what is being given for hormone therapy are Synthetic hormones. This simply means the hormone is not the same chemical structure that the body makes, in contrast to “Natural” hormones, which are the same structure as what your body produces. Anti-aging specialists point out that Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is more ideal because synthetic hormones are associated with a lot of side effects. The dosing for example of synthetic hormones is also is a “one-size-fits all” approach in contrast to the customized specifically compounded formulations of BHRT. The mode of delivery is also of importance with BHRT being given transdermally (meaning through the skin in form of a patch or cream) as opposed to per orem (or via the mouth, ingested).

The obvious overlap in specialties makes the whole exercise of HRT also fraught with controversy. In the United States, anti-aging specialists come from several varying fields in medicine. Who is the right specialist for this type of treatment? Endocrinologists are doctors that sub-specialize in this field, but with the emergence of the practice of anti-aging medicine, the lines have blurred and now OBGYN’s, family medicine, dermatologists, etc have entered the fray. In Manila alone, you will hear about Ophthalmologists dispensing HCG pellets for weight loss (an entirely different topic). One thing is for certain though,

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HRT should be administered by a licensed physician. In the USA, the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine or A4M certify doctors in this field after undergoing a 2 to 3 year training program. Dresden International University in Germany also has an intensive program for this emerging field in medicine, which just goes to show that training and certification is still key in finding the right doctor for someone considering this therapy.

Does this mean that BHRT is wrong? It remains a controversy but the results are worth looking into. Traditional western medicine does not have the answers to everything. And almost everyone has felt the effects of a drug gone wrong, so it does not discount the fact that compounded natural hormones do work on symptomatic persons who have been on it. If you are in the throes of hormone hell because of menopause, infertility, PCOS, adrenal fatigue and the like, the idea of balancing these hormones is a sound one. Bear in mind that the testing process is a rigorous one and the whole idea of undergoing such treatment should come with a firm commitment of a lifestyle change. BHRT is gaining popularity simply because it explains the gaps western medicine can’t fill. However, with treatments being custom compounded (mostly from pharmacies abroad) the costs may also be substantial.

The promise of BHRT is tremendous. It forces doctors and patients alike to look at the source of the problem rather than just treating the symptoms. How often have doctors given anti-depressants to patients without checking their thyroid or their progesterone levels? They probably didn’t because most doctors might not even consider it. However, even those doctors that practice BHRT stress that proper and continuous testing is key, and not everyone is a good candidate for such treatments. The key is to educate oneself and make informed choices about our bodies. As for doctors, well, let’s just not forget about Hippocrates and do no harm. / / / /

GORE-TEX NOSELIFT REJECTION-FREE approach in crafting IDEAL NASAL PROFILE

A safe

Before

After

Danita Paner Singer /Model

Berni Ann Estiandan

OTHER SERVICES SURGICAL SERVICES: Reconstructive Rhinoplasty using GORE-TEX Implant • Scarless Double eye-lid and Eye-widening Operation • Eyebag Removal. Noble Surgery (Paranasal and Chin Augmentation) Facelift • Minilift. Mandibular Contouring • Cheek Augmentation • Breast Augmentation and Reduction Breast Lift.Liposuction .Tummy Tuck • Butt Enhancement APTOS Thread • DERMATOLOGICAL SERVICES: Facial Cleaning • Facial Acne Treatment • SILKLIGHT LASER Acne Treatment • Intralesional Acne Treatment. Shimmian Skin Peel Blue Peel • Diamond Peel • Gycolic Peel • TCA Deep Peel .Whole Body Peel. Microdermabrasion • Skin Whitening. Mesowhite • Injectable Gluthathione Treatment• Painless Wart and Mole Removal • Melasma and Syringoma removal • NON-SURGICAL ENHANCEMENTS REJUVENATION AND SLIMMING TREATMENTS: SILKLIGHT Laser Photorejuvenation for removal of melasma, skin tightening and pore reduction • BOTOX. Dermal Fillers (correction of Scars and Wrinkles and facial contouring) • Scars and Keloid Removal• Mesolift • Body Contouring (Mesotheraphy) • CelluliteTreatment • Permanent Laser Hair Removal • Laser Vein Treatment (Sclerotheraphy) • Mosaic Fractional Laser for Scar, Wrinkle and Melasma Removal, Pore Reduction and Skin Rejuvenation • Fractional CO2 laser for skin resurfacing. RF face lift and RF Body Contouring. Cavitalipomelt Body sculpting. Comprehensive Whitening Program. Comprehensive Slimming and Weight Management Program Comprehensive Anti-Aging Program.

MEDICAL PLAZA ORTIGAS 910 - 0239 • 637 -2924 CONNECTICUT, GREENHILLS 725 - 3605 • 724-5294 TOMAS MORATO, Q.C 332 - 7639 • 227-4105

www.shimmianmanila.com

STORE BEAUTY / GROOMING

THE BODY SHOP thebodyshop.com.ph / CAMILLE ALBANE, CATH KIDSTON, ESTÉE LAUDER, L’ORÉAL PARIS, LA MER, PERRICONE MD Rustan’s The Beauty Source, Rustan’s Department Stores Ayala Center, Shangri-La Plaza, Alabang Town Center, Gateway Mall, Robinson’s Place; rustans-thebeautysource.com / LUSH Glorietta 4; Shangri-La Plaza Mall; Greenbelt 3; SM Mall of Asia; Alabang Town Center; Trinoma, BGC Retail Promenade, Fort Bonifacio Global City; lush. com.ph / STRIVECTIN-SD Watson’s; Rustan’s; SM Department Stores

FASHION

ACCESSORIZE Festival Supermall; Alabang Town Center; SM Southmall; SM Mall of Asia; Greenbelt 5; Glorietta 3; Shangri-La Plaza Mall; Robinson’s Place Ermita; Robinson’s Galleria; Trinoma / CHLOÈ, DR. DENIM, HARLAN + HOLDEN, JASPAL, SCHUTZ, STELLA LUNA, PRETTY BALLERINA All available at ADORA 2/F Greenbelt 5 Ayala Center, Makati City, 217-4030, 217-4029, adora.ph / ALEXANDER MCQUEEN alexandermcqueen.com / BEN SHERMAN bensherman. com / BULGARI Boutiques: G/F Greenbelt 4; G/F Newport Mall; Watch Corners: Rustan’s Makati; Alabang Town Center / BURBERRY Greenbelt 4, Rustan’s Makati, Shangri-la Plaza Mall / CARTIER Rustan’s Makati; Alabang Town Center; Shangri-La Plaza Mall / CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN christianlouboutin.com / CUTLER AND GROSS cutlerandgross.com / DEPT dept.nl / DIESEL Greenbelt 3; Powerplant Mall, Rockwell; Shangri-La Plaza Mall / DSQUARED2 Select optical stores; SM Department Stores; Robinson’s Department Stores; The Landmark / GUCCI Greenbelt 4; Shangri-La Plaza Mall / H&M hm.com / HERMÈS Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, Makati / KERMIT TESORO kermittesoro.com / LEVI’S Power Plant Mall, Rockwell; Greenbelt 5; SM Makati Department Store; Alphaland Edsa cor. Pasong Tamo Ext.; levi.com.ph / LOUIS VUITTON Greenbelt 4, Ayala Center Makati / MARC JACOBS Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center Makati / MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA maisonmartinmargiela.com / MARITHÉ + FRANÇOIS GIRBAUD SM Supermalls; Ayala Malls; Robinsons Malls; Gateway Mall; Marquee Mall; Trinoma; The Podium / MARKS & SPENCER Alabang Town Center; Eastwood; Gateway Mall; Glorietta 4; Greenbelt 5; Power Plant Mall; Robinson’s Galleria; Shangri-La Plaza Mall; SM Mall of Asia; SM Megamall; marksandspencer.com.ph / MICHELIS Shoppesville, Greenhills; Mandarin Oriental Hotel; The Podium; Greenbelt 1; Alabang Town Center; Robinson’s Ermita; Rustan’s Shangri-La Plaza Mall, michelisjewellery.com / PORTS 1961 ports1961.com / SALVATORE FERRAGAMO Rustan’s Makati; Shangri-La Plaza; Power Plant Mall, Rockwell; Greenbelt 4; Fiesta Mall; Newport Mall, Resorts World Manila; NAIA T1; NAIA T2 / SM ACCESSORIES SM Department Stores / TOD’S Greenbelt 4, Ayala Center Makati / VIKTOR & ROLF viktor-rolf.com / ZARA Shangri-La Plaza Mall; Greenbelt 5; Powerplant Mall, Rockwell; Glorietta 3; SM Mall of Asia; Trinoma

LIFESTYLE

CASSINA Available at FURNITALIA 30th St. corner Rizal Drive, Crescent Park, West Bonifacio, Global City, 8191887 / CATHY VALENCIA Unit B2 GF Westgate Tower Investment Drive Madrigal Business Park, Ayala Alabang, 751-3990; G5 Prince Plaza II Bldg. Dela Rosa St., cor Legaspi Village, Makati, 376-4202; 50F Timog Ave., South Triangle, Quezon City, 466-3993; cathyvalencia.com / CENTURY PROPERTIES 21st floor Pacific Star Building, Sen. Gil Puyat cor. Makati Ave., Makati City, 793-5500; century-properties.com; trumptowermanila.com / THE CHARLIE HOTEL 819 N Sweetzer Ave, West Hollywood, CA, 90069, U.S.A.; thecharliehotel.com / FRUITS & PASSION Greenbelt 3; Bonifacio High Street; Alabang Town Center; Rustan’s Department Store, Shangri-La Plaza Mall; Trinoma / FLOU flou.it / FORD Paco, Manila; Madrigal Business Park; Muntinlupa City; Edsa Brgy. Apolonio; Balintawak; Commonwealth Ave., Quezon City; SM City Fairview; Greenhills; ford.com.ph / JACK DANIEL’S jackdaniels.com / MERALCO Meralco Center, Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City; meralco. com.ph / RIMOWA Greenbelt 5; Adora Greenbelt 5; Powerplant Mall, Rockwell; Newport Mall; Glorietta 4 / SHIMMIAN MANILA SURGICENTER Medical Plaza Ortigas 910-0239, 637-2924; Connecticut, Greenhills 725-3605, 724-5294; Tomas Morato, Quezon City, 332-7639, 227-4105; shimmianmanila.com / SMART NETPHONE smart.com.ph/netphone/smartnet / TENDERLEAN Landmark Makati and Landmark Trinoma supermarkets, 809-7442; tenderlean.ph / TUMI DUCATI Tumi Greenbelt 5 and selected The Travel Club stores nationwide

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The colors red, white, and blue reigned the night, and along with the dancing strobe lights and electrifying beats, in every champagne toast and conversation over cocktails, the American Dream flashed before everyone—to celebrate Camila Alves, international model and TV personality, gracing the cover of Spark Magazine.

This event was made possible by Smart Netphone, Levi’s, Havaianas, LUSH, Fruits & Passion, Jack Daniels, Southern Comfort, Greenleaf Ecobags, with special thanks to Opus 96

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Restaurant and Lounge. Gorgeous guests in their red, white, or blue outfits were also rewarded with gifts from LUSH for “Best in Red” winner, Florence Ko, Levi’s for “Best in Blue” winner Leif-Erik Hannikainen, and Fruits & Passion for “Best in White” winner, Katja Rodriguez. / / / / Images Sany Chua and Diego Jose Assisted by Mark Cabalang

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Optoline Inc. gathered the leading edge in eyewear industry and presented its 2012 collection. Their five exclusive highend brands, Tom Ford, Roberto Cavalli, Just Cavalli, Replay Eyes and the latest under their helm, Dsquared2 are bound to catch the interest of all Filipino stylephiles and lens aficionados. The launch held at The Establishment at The Fort was well-attended by big names from the entertainment, fashion, and optical industry, with the brand’s CEO Kardy Lakhmani and the VP for Operations Marivic Lakhmani and Marcolin Italy spearheading the event. Celebrities like Karylle, John Estrada, Angel Aquino, Empress Schuck, Isabel Oli, Paolo Bediones, JC De Vera, Jaya, Dennis Trillo, and Mark Escudero were spotted at the venue, while “Mr. Shades” himself, Randy Santiago, and Zia Quizon serenaded the guests with their hits. Christina Sheng, Regional Manager for Asia of the Marcolin Group based in Hong Kong, shared her style know-hows as to the latest trend in eyewear fashion. To revel in the night’s festivity, five pairs of glasses from Tom Ford and Roberto Cavalli were raffled off. See fashion eye to eye, embodied in each pair of the newest collection, soon to be available in selected optical and department stores nationwide, exclusively distributed by Optoline Inc. 1 Zia Quizon shows off her Just Cavalli Eyewear 2 Kardy Lakhmani, distributor of eyewear brands Tom Ford, Roberto Cavalli, Dsquared2, Just Cavalli, and Replay Eyes with reality show host and news anchor of TV5, Paolo Bediones 3 Happy Yipee Yehey! host, Randy Santiago 4 Angel Aquino, actress par excellence and Studio 23 Us Girls host joined the fun with Yul Servo 5 Dr. Christian Magno and wife Marigel of Magno Optical 6 Dr. Socorro Sarabia and son Jose Paolo of Sarabia Optical chain store 7 Queen of Soul Jaya and husband Gary graced the event in her Dsquared2 Eyewear 8 Dr. Elisa Ong of Unique Vision Centre with sister Caroline Wong 9 Karylle 10 Christina Sheng, Regional Manager for Asia of Marcolin Group, flocked by GMA7 artists Isabel Oli, Dennis Trillo and Mark Escudero 10 Marivic Lakhmani poses with Patricia Unas and Anton San Diego 12 SPARK’s Jeyme Morallo and Roselle Ignacio of HP Singapore 13 Happy Yipee Yehey! host John Estrada shares the fun with Magic 89.9 DJs 14 The Optical Shop owners, Marga, Dr. Justin, Dr.Ivy and Dr.TJ Divinagracia

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The country’s biggest power distributor, Meralco, launched their new corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm in a spectacular musicale. The One Meralco Foundation (OMF) represents change and a re-energized approach on CSR, thus its artistic launching is the company’s way of highlighting their continued commitment to innovation and the sustainability of its social investments. “Illume…A Light Musical” featured four acts, with characters who sang about a pillar in Meralco’s CSR initiatives—Rural and Missionary Electrification, Grassroots Partnership, Youth and Sports Advocacy, and Disaster Relief and Emergency Preparedness, which were performed by company employees as a gift to Meralco CEO and President Manuel V. Pangilinan, who celebrated his birthday the day before the launch. Cocktails were served as a warm-up to the musical, which was also attended by members of media, VIP guests, trustees, and officers of 1MF. The evening was capped off with a rousing rendition of “One,” led by the Meralco Chorale.

1 OMF Chairman, Meralco President & Chief Executive Officer Manuel V. Pangilinan 2 Cainta Mayor Mon Ilagan 3 OMF President, Meralco Assistant Vice President & Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer Jeffrey O. Tarayao 4 OMF Trustee, Meralco Executive Vice President & Networks Head Ricardo V. Buencamino states a commitment on stage in behalf of OMF 5 OMF Trustee & Caritas Manila Executive Director Fr. Anton Pascual, and OMF Trustee, Senior Vice President & Human Resources & Corporate Services Head Ramon B. Segismundo 6 Maynilad Corporate Human Capital and Organization Development Head Roy Agustin K. Evalle 7 OMF Trustee, Meralco Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Betty Siy-Yap 8 OMF Vice Chairman, Meralco Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer Oscar S. Reyes and OMF Trustee, Meralco Senior Vice President, Customer Retail Services & Corporate Communications Head Alfredo S. Panlilio 9 OMF Treasurer, Meralco Assistant Vice President & Financial Accounting Head Anna Marie Lerma 10 OMF Trustee and Gawad Kalinga Community Development Center Executive Director Jose Luis Oquiñena 11 SPARK’s Martin Favis and Victor Aliwalas with OMF Chairman, Meralco President & Chief Executive Officer Manuel V. Pangilinan

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LAST LOOK

Here Sun

As we bid farewell to 2011, we look forward to a new day, a new you. And with summer just along the corner, these pieces will help you feel that warm glow. They each tell a story of their own and are especially designed for the chic and glamorous women of today. Crafted only by the best artisans from the finest leather, silk and rubber materials, they are elegant yet subtle, classic but comfortable.

Experience luxury at its finest from head to toe this summer from the high fashion house of Hermés.

Marathon Lady Sport shoes, Clou de Selle Pochette, Dogon Leather wallet, L’Arbre de Vie scarf, HR Women’s Square watch, all

by Hermés, Available at Greenbelt 3

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To Whom It May Concern,

Organic

Beef comes from free-range cattle that was NOT given antibiotics, has NO added hormones, and eat nothing but organic food.

If you’re gonna eat meat, why not feed yourself the best and healthiest?

Think about it...

Sincerely, The Farm

The Healthy Meat Visit us at facebook.com/thefarmorganics

Available at The Landmark Supermarket Makati and Trinoma . Rustan’s Makati, San Antonio, Rockwell, Shangri-la . Shopwise Libis Call 809-7442 for delivery in Metro Manila