IN THE HOUSE JULY 2021 by manilahouseinc

e Th O do ut or fe Li

JULY 20 21 ISSUE 54

B A R | C U IS INE | A R T | P OP-UP | EV ENT S

MH | E D I T O R ' S N O T E

LIFE IS OUTDOORS I had a taste of life in a maskless world last week when I flew down to Siargao. It was a bit unsettling at first, accustomed as we are in Manila to a certain level of paranoia. The mask and shield combo had become necessary armor and talisman against an invisible but rampant virus, to the point that it felt transgressive not to have them on, except, of course, when eating. Once off, however, breathing in the fresh sea air on an island with only 20 recorded active cases, it was naturally so freeing. So having to don mask and shield again to fly back to Manila was like being prepped for battle once more. That feeling of safety is so important. Siargao seems to have acted quickly to contain the coronavirus surge early on, even if the vaccinations have not yet reached the island. People are mindful of social distancing, though not always strict about it, but with almost everything conducted outdoors and in the open air, there are less chances of infection.

HOW TO SIGN UP

At Manila House, we work hard to ensure that our Members, Staff and Guests feel that same sense of safety. While we still require masks and shields whilst in the Club, we are pleased to inform you that almost all our staff and personnel have received their first jabs, and should be fully vaccinated in the next few weeks, thanks to the vaccine rollout programme of the Taguig LGU. At the same time, we’ve continued to create private spaces within our outdoor areas for small groups to gather in a safe but relaxed manner. That, and the easing of regulations by the LGU and IATF have encouraged more and more Members to come to the Club to dine al fresco and enjoy being eight stories above the city.

Manila House Rewards is easy and convenient to access. The attached hyperlink https://manila-house.eber.co takes you to the registration/login page.

For those who still feel safer at home, you can still enjoy the Manila House experience at home. There’s takeaway, either by calling us directly, ordering online, or via any of the food deliver apps - Pick-a-roo, Grab Food and Foodpanda. And remember to tune into our webinars for a dose of culture, current events, health matters, and more. Our webinars are also uploaded onto the Manila House YouTube channel in case you’d like to listen to the replay. For the calendar of webinars this month, please turn to page 24.

Best In-House Magazine

You will be able to log in to your account using the primary email or mobile number connected to your Club membership.

PHILIPPINES BEST BRAND AWARDS 2018

Editor Bambina Olivares Content & Marketing Manager / Graphic Designer Arci Catalan

Stay safe.

Editorial Adviser Anton San Diego

Bambina Olivares

Director of PR and Arts, Culture, and Education Programs

O N T HE C O VE R

Fresh new look of the Avenue Deck

M H | TA B L E OF C ON T E N T S

JULY 1

EDITOR'S NOTE

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

MEET OUR TEAM Lenord Herick Aviles

CLUB RULES Attention All Members

BENEFITS & PRIVILEGES Essentials in the Time of COVID LifeScience X Manila House

CLUB NEWS Vaxxed to the Max A Jab Well Done

RECIPROCAL CLUBS

R E TA I L C O R N E R Retail Therapy

FOOD & BEVERAGE Manila House Signature Cocktails

M E M B E R’ S C OR N E R Travel Smart

INTERVIEW Maureen Disini & Daniel Teichert

25 26 27

CALENDAR OF EVENT S Ergonomically Speaking: Avoiding WFH Aches and Pains The Body is Willing but the Spirit Resists: Mental Health and Sports Beyond Food: The Dining Experience What’s Cooking? When Chefs Become Authors

T R AV E L Weekend Getaways at The Hamptons & Napa Valley

17 18 19 20

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT A Uniquely Portable Magic COVID Smart Geopolitical Realities Behind the Scenes ON SHOW After a Fashion Soaking in Vitmain D at the Intramuros Garden Extension and Cabanas at Avenue Deck

MH | M E E T O U R T E A M

Lenord Herick Aviles Finance Associate

Whether he’s working on the frontlines or in the back office, Lenord Aviles is always an essential member of the team.

What was your first year in Manila House like? I remember four years ago, I applied for a finance post in the morning, took my lunch and started pinching myself because I was immediately provided a workstation in the afternoon. It was a swift employment process! My first quarter was full of adjustments since I graduated with a degree in Nursing and previously worked as a frontliner in an international bank. Adapting to a new work culture as back office support allowed me to take extra steps to embrace new learnings. Collaboration from my workmates made my first year at the Club easier and enjoyable. As what they say, TEAMWORK makes the dream work. What were the major changes in your daily tasks during the pandemic? Being optimistic allowed me to rise above the pandemic‐related changes in my work load. Due to workforce reduction, additional tasks and responsibilities were placed on me, from a financial associate office-based employee to a multiple-task guy, helping out in retail and collections. Leveraging on these new learnings are the factors I am grateful for, but this comes with the risk of being infected while on the field to do collections. If you were not in accounting, what else would you be doing? Way far from spreadsheets lol! I would be joining the army and serving the country. How do you relax after work? Saying hello to Netflix series and movies, a bottle of frosty beer with my compadre (my poodle, Chumbeeloochillulilloo) after a hard day’s work are my simple ways to unwind. What are you looking forward as we enter the second half of 2021? Looking ahead to the end of pandemic or at least herd immunity to slowly normalize our way of life and to travel abroad.

POP QUIZ

• If I were a superhero, I’ll be… Wolverine. Wild beast with a tender heart. • The best travel destination is… Amsterdam with my lovely wife. • My favorite food from Manila House is… Manila House Fried Chicken and Clubhouse Sandwich.

DIRECTORY

Reservations +63 917 816 3685 reservations@manilahouseinc.com

Banquets +63 917 816 3671 banquets@manilahouseinc.com

Membership +63 917 805 5941 membership@manilahouseinc.com

etail R +63 917 851 6500, +63 917 560 0201 retail@manilahouseinc.com

PR and Arts, Culture & Education Programs +63 917 851 6541 events@manilahouseinc.com

Call us: +632 7 958 5007, +632 8 478 7163, +632 8 478 7165, +632 8 478 7176, +632 8 826 3196

Manila House Private Club, Inc. 8F, Seven/NEO, 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig 1634, Philippines www.manilahouseinc.com Manila House Private Members Club @manila_house @manila_house Manila House Private Club

MH | C L U B R U L E S

ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS MEMBER REFERRAL AND REWARDS PROGRAMME

After February 28, 2021, unpaid Annual Dues for 2021 shall be charged late payment interest of 2% per month.

We’re accepting membership applications again. Refer a friend, family member or business associate for membership to Manila House and we’ll reward you!

For more information regarding Membership concerns, please call +63 917 805 5941 or email membership@manilahouseinc.com

For every new Member you refer, you will receive a P10,000 voucher that is • redeemable against food and beverage consumption for dine-in and takeaways • non-transferrable and not convertible to cash • valid for six months from date of issue • valid for single transaction and shall not be claimed with any discount and promotions

F&B VOUCHERS

The voucher is released only upon the payment of membership joining fees by the new Member. The value of the voucher is fixed, regardless of membership type.

The current lockdown restrictions have meant that the Club is closed for dine-in until further notice.

For inquiries and more information regarding Member Referral Programme, please call +63 917 805 5941 or email membership@manilahouseinc.com

2021 ANNUAL DUES AND CONSUMABLES Annual Dues must be settled within the first month of each year. Annual Dues are inclusive of P700 and P500 monthly consumables. Founding, Regular, and Associate Members will be entitled to P700 in monthly consumables. For Junior Members, the monthly consumable amount is P500. The consumable amounts may be used in all F&B outlets. If unused, the monthly consumable amount will be forfeited at the end of every month.

We continue to encourage Members to purchase in advance the P10,000 F&B vouchers that are fully consumable and may be used for dine-in and takeaway. They may also be used as payment for webinar registration fees which include food delivery options. SUPPORT MANILA HOUSE VIA TAKEAWAY

In the meantime, we urge all Members to support the Club, and its employees, by ordering from our Takeaway Menu. For your convience, we offer several ways to order Takeaway: Order from our website (shop.manilahouseinc com), through food delivery services (Pick-a-Roo, Grab Food and Foodpanda), or by calling us directly (+63 917 816 3685). Thank you for being part of the Manila House community, and for supporting your Manila House family. Please note that our safety protocols are subject to change depending on pronouncements issued by the IATF and the LGU. The Club reserves the right to refuse service to Members and their guests who do not comply with the safety protocols.

MH | B E N E F I T S & P R I V I L E G E S

Essentials in the Time of COVID A curated selection of necessary items from our partners

STAY WELL AT THE FARM AT SAN BENITO Detox, de-stress and emerge refreshed. Special rates at The Farm await Manila House Members. Room rates begin at P10,000++ per night and includes Nutrient-rich vegan breakfast for two; Holistic Health Orientation with our integrative Doctor; Participation in Mindful Movements: Yoga Sessions, Mandala Flower Meditation, Immune Boosting Juice and Blends Prep Class, Wellness Talks, and Nature Walks; Use of facilities; Complimentary WiFi To ensure a safe and comfortable stay, all guests are required to take a 15-minute FDA-approved rapid test on-site prior to entry at P2,500++ per person additional fee. Contact details: +63 918 884 8080, +63 917 572 2325 info@thefarm.com.ph www.thefarmatsanbenito.com

CLOSER TO HOME AT AMANPULO Blissfully marooned in the tranquil waters of northern Palawan, the private island of Amanpulo beckons family and friends to immerse in a serene summer escape together. Manila House Members may enjoy an exclusive complimentary upgrade from a Deluxe Hillside Casita to a Beach Casita on weekdays (Sunday to Thursday) for stays from May 1 to September 30, 2021, available for booking until September 25, 2021 only. Immerse in the pleasures of paradise with a two-night stay in a Casita starting at P106,000++ inclusive of daily breakfast, and a choice of a 50-minute massage at the Aman Spa or an a la carte lunch for two persons To ensure a safe and comfortable stay, all guests are required to submit negative COVID-19 PCR test swab results. This will ensure that the entire family / group will be cleared to join the flight and will facilitate a quicker and smoother transit from the Medical Reception to the Lounge. To book, please call +63 (2) 7976 5200 or +63 (2) 8854 0276 or email amanpulores@aman.com and copy Carla David cdavid@aman.com

MH | B E N E F I T S & P R I V I L E G E S

LifeScience X Manila House

We’ve been collaborating on talks and webinars with LifeScience Center, the country’s leading functional medicine clinic, and their Care Team since 2018. And now, we’re taking our partnership to the next level.

Get a complimentary Heart Health Monitor session worth Php4,000 when you book Health Management Consult

LifeScience offers holistic, personalized, and preventive healthcare designed to help you resolve chronic health concerns such as autoimmune disease, infertility, heart disease, diabetes, and more.

Get 20% off on the Cardiometabolic Profile Test, and advanced biomarker test that will help you know if you’re on your way to developing heart disease

Designed to make you feel better, and attain optimal health. As a part of our partnership, LifeScience will curate special packages designed to make us feel better. In addition, a percentage of the proceeds will go towards making the community feel better through our in-house Hot Meals for Heroes feeding initiative.

Purchase doctor-grade supplements from LifeScience and have them conveniently delivered right to your house

Book an appointment or Schedule a free 15-minute call with LifeScience here

SANIVIR SMOKE DISINFECTANT Manufactured in Spain and tested according to stringent standards to assure its effectiveness against the Coronavirus, other types of viruses, bacteria, fungi and spores, Sanivir Smoke contains Glutaraldehyde and Orthophenylphenol which are both FDA and CDC approved active ingredients ideal in killing viruses. • Ideal for all enclosed spaces • Easy to use, no residue, non-corrosive • Can penetrate hard to reach areas such as crevices, air vents, ceiling as well as surfaces • It can be used every two weeks depending on the area Manila House Members enjoy specially discounted prices for Sanivir Smoke Discounted Price per can P1,200 Sanivir Smoke 25g SRP: P1,500 50 m3 (15 to 30 sq. m)

Purchase your LifeScience Supplements at our Online Shop shop.manilahouseinc.com

BioConcepts Orthoplex BioActive Lipids Php2,115

BioConcepts Orthoplex CitraMag Php1,600

Douglas Laboratories Vitamin D3 1000IU Php500

Douglas Laboratories Vitamin D3 5000IU Php1,000

LCPI Liposomal Melatonin Sublingual Spray Php1,200

Pure Encapsulations Zinc Picolinate Php825

LCPO Immuni-3 Php1,810

Sanivir Smoke 1kg P4,800 2,000 m3 (500-550 sq. m) SRP: P6,000 Prices are exclusive of 12% vat and exclusive of delivery charges. Price of this item is subject to change without prior notice. For more information, please call

371-3936, 411-2627 or 411-2592

MH | C L U B N E W S

IN THE MOOD FOR SCONES, MUFFINS OR CAKE? Come to Manila House for Weekend Breakfast with a copy of your Vaccination Card. Fully vaccinated Members get free coffee or tea and pastry*, with a required minimum spend of P1,500.00 This offer applies to Weekend Breakfast only on a dine in basis and runs from June 19 to August 31, 2021.

*Choice of Buttermilk Scone, Banana Muffin, or Chocolate Cake, whichever is available

A JAB WELL DONE!

Manila House Staff with Taguig City Mayor Lino Cayetano

Manila House Staff got their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine! We thank the Taguig LGU led by Mayor Lino Cayetano for an efficient vaccination campaign. Together we are on track to the #RoadToZero! 7

MH | R E C I P R O C A L C L U B S

Manila House Members now enjoy reciprocal rights at the following Clubs

12 H AY H I LL London United Kingdom

Singapore

18 8 0

STRAITS CL AN Singapore

Gurugram & Mumbai India

THE QUORUM

UNITED SERVICES R E C R E AT I O N C LU B Hong Kong

T O WE R C L U B Singapore

A R T Y Z E N C LU B

MODERNIST

CA R T E L C LU B

PE R SHING Austin, TX USA

THE COURT

B RO DY L A N D

THE CIT Y SOCIET Y Beijing China

T H E A M E R I CA N C LU B H O N G KO N G Hong Kong

WE _ ARE

London United Kingdom

San Francisco, CA USA

Hong Kong

Budapest Hungary

Cape Town South Africa

Paris France

WORK CLUB GLOBAL Australia

SY D N E Y S U PR E M E C O U R T

SY D N E Y BARANGAROO

SY D N E Y B A R R AC K PL AC E

CA N D E L A N U E VO Melbourne Australia

Please note that all requests for visits to and bookings at our reciprocal clubs must be coursed through Manila House at least three (3) days before your intended visit. Please include the dates of your visit, as well as the number of guests you wish to bring, as each club sets its own limits. We kindly remind you to wait for email confirmation that your visit has been approved before proceeding to the reciprocal club. Please refrain from calling the reciprocal club directly to announce your visit. You may also be required to present your Manila House Membership Card when you arrive at the reciprocal club.

MH | R E TA I L C O R N E R

RETAIL THERAPY

Fresh new finds and exciting gift ideas await at our Retail Corner!

Liwayway Manille

Liv & Lui

My Home Line by Nicole Ortega

For inquiries, contact Ms. Gic Capongcol at +63 917 560 0201

M H | T R AV E L

WEEKEND GETAWAYS Our travel partner, Essentialist, has put together two fun-filled weekend getaways on the East & West Coasts to get you inspired now that travel is opening up. To learn more about Essentialist and activate your membership, click here!

The Hamptons There’s nothing quite like escaping the hot, bustling streets of New York City for a relaxing and luxurious weekend in the Hamptons. The best place to base yourself for a weekend of summer leisure is in East Hampton, where The Maidstone Hotel is the perfect mix of stylish and homey. If it’s a sunny day, you’ll want to hit one of the many pristine golden beaches in the area and after a day in the sun, it’s a great idea to check out the Hamptons art scene. In addition to temporary galleries, the area is also home to permanent art destinations like the Pollock-Krasner House, Parrish Art Museum, Dia Bridgehampton. If the weather’s behaving, don’t miss the LongHouse Reserve, a lush sculpture garden with works by Dale Chihuly, Yoko Ono, and Buckminster Fuller. The Hamptons is also a great destination for shopping. Shops like Tenet and Clic add a bit of variety to the downtown shopping scene with expertly curated pieces from a wide variety of brands.

Crow’s Nest in Montauk

For dinner, there are a surprising number of options at every price point. Casual meals are some of the best meals here, like lobster rolls and clam chowder at the Clam Bar, tacos at La Fondita, or pizza at Sag Pizza. For something splashy and sophisticated, Nick & Toni’s is a classic Hamptons hotspot. And if you can’t get in-- no worries--Fresno in East Hampton, Almond in Bridgehampton, and Wolffer Kitchen in Amagansett are excellent choices for elevated dishes made with local ingredients.

From East Hampton, you’ll have easy access to hip Montauk, a town that’s popular with surfers and artists. Take a surf lesson with Austin’s Surf Club, grab a sunset drink at The Montauket, and dine under the fairy lights at Crow’s Nest. If you’re looking for nightlife, The Surf Lodge hosts world-class musical acts all summer long. If you’d prefer to stay here, the town is full of retro-chic renovated hotels like Hero Beach Club and Marram. Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it in the Hamptons.

- Teddy Minford Georgica Beach 12

M H | T R AV E L

Napa Valley The jewel of Northern California, Napa Valley is more than just a destination for oenophiles. With world-class art, Michelin-starred restaurants, and renowned spas, it’s one of the best places to spend a luxurious and indulgent weekend. Food should be at the center of any trip to Napa Valley with restaurants that focus on the seasonal, and local, creating delicious dishes to pair with incredible wines. On the high end, the 3-Michelin-starred The French Laundry, is located in Yountville and consistently ranked one of the world’s best restaurants. If you can’t get a reservation or don’t want to blow your whole dining budget on one meal, you’re still in luck. Chef Thomas Keller has opened Ad Hoc, a fast-casual dining spot just a few doors down. In the town of Napa, Oenotri is an Italian restaurant in an airy, barn-like space. Sonoma is home to Girl and the Fig, an excellent top for Frenchinspired country food. If you’re interested in tasting a variety of wines, try one of the tasting rooms throughout the valley, like Oakville Wine Merchant or Back Room Wines. Stop at one of the gorgeous wineries, where art and architecture match the fine wines being served. Hess Collection is a must-see for art lovers. If you’re more interested in architecture than art, Artesia is a wine lab carved into the landscape.

Napa Valley vines

Northern California is perhaps best known for juicy reds and oaky chardonnays, but it would be a mistake to miss out on the excellent sparkling wine in the region. Chandon, Schramsberg, and Mumm Napa are all well worth a visit.

Hess Collection

When you’ve had your fill of wine, take a stroll through one of the quaint towns in the valley, like Yountville, St. Helena or Calistoga. Calistoga is a famous spa town where you can indulge in a massage at Calistoga Spa after spending a day in the mineral pools.

A day of wine tasting can be exhausting, so you’ll want to choose a hotel that’s comfortable and well-located. Those looking for peace and quiet will love resorts like Solage or Auberge du Soleil, while those looking for something a bit more lively might prefer downtown hotels like Archer or Wydown Hotel. Napa Valley is known for its hospitality - once you visit, you’ll understand why people keep returning to experience the magic. - Teddy Minford 13

Chandon wines

MH | F O O D & B E V E R A G E

MH | M E M B E R ’ S C O R N E R

TRAVEL SMART

Our Members share tips and tricks when traveling to their favorite destinations

MH | I N T E R V I E W

MAUREEN DISINI & DANIEL TEICHERT answer the Manila House Questionnaire

“We think ultimately success is about making an impact. At work, in the lives of our loved ones, in the community.”

Tell us what you do.

What book is in your bookshelf but you’ve never read?

I am the Chief Risk Officer at Monde Nissin Corporation and Maureen is a fashion designer.

Daniel: David Foster-Wallace. Infinite Jest. One day I’ll finally manage! Maureen: Most of my fashion books

How do you define success?

This is a very difficult question with no easy answer. We think ultimately success is about making an impact. At work, in the lives of our loved ones, in the community. This can come in many shapes and forms. What life lessons did you derive from the pandemic?

Life is short. Value the little things. We miss travelling, dinners with good friends and family, going to worship service, and our Sunday coffee shop routine.

What song can’t you get out of your head?

Daniel: What a Beautiful Name by Hillsong Maureen: Con Te Partiro by Andrea Bocelli What would you like to see in the “next normal”?

That the trend for efficient online solutions continues. What’s your favorite thing about Manila House?

Sunset on the deck with G&T for me and Sangria for my wife.

What’s the last movie/series you watched?

If you had to be quarantined (again) which country would you choose to be in?

Daniel: Gomorrah – A fantastic Italian mafia series. Maureen: The Kominsky method

Anywhere really. As long as we are together. 16

MH | I N C A S E Y O U M I S S E D I T

A UNIQUELY PORTABLE MAGIC

Bookworms and keen readers got a glimpse into the world of publishing when industry insiders Stephen Morrison, former Editor-in-Chief of Penguin Books, Karina Bolasco, Director of the Ateneo de Manila University Press, Honey de Peralta, Sales Manager at Penguin Random House USA, and Katya Lichauco and Enzo Santos, Co-founders of Staff Picks, talked about the business and magic of books. As Stephen King said, “Books are a uniquely portable magic.” “The irony is, anybody who’s ever wanted to write a book - at least in the States - is secretly hoping they’re going to be a New York Times bestseller whether they game the system or not, or that Oprah is going to discover them. It’s sort of like we all hope we’re going to win the lottery ticket. I do think just having worked with a lot of authors over the years, when you try and write, (unless you’re writing a genre type of book where you’re really going after very specific market and there is a formula to that market) this way is not a lot of fun because you’re sort of doing it fairly cynically. I think there is a weird magic to what appeals to people, and when it feels over-engineered and you yourself don’t even believe in what you’re writing... readers can feel that.” - Stephen Morrison “The university press is an extension of the university’s mission, and while it may not be really a profit center which is a relief because you don’t have to look at the bottom line, I always tell my staff that these books are useless if they’re not read. So even if they’re not bought, they should be libraries where people will read these pioneering and rigorously researches studies, because it’s such a waste [if not read]. So it’s a different market altogether. In other countries where when they have news events, when they analyze the political situation and all that, they bring in authors of books … we don’t do that here, maybe a little bit more now. I mean, you find political analysts on TV sometimes, but not as much - it’s not a standard procedure for media... it’s really challenging to improve public engagement.” - Karina Bolasco “I go to Instagram a lot, I go to Twitter a lot, Facebook not so much, but I love watching all of the discussions that readers have, that bloggers have about certain titles or certain books or even the discussions that are generated by the bookstores by the indie bookstores, by the large bookstores, because it’s really like all of that work that went into the book - I mean that’s your opportunity to actually hear people talking about the book. And because they talk about the book, then other people find the book, so from a selling point of view that’s great, but also from a reader point of view that’s that’s exactly what you want to happen.” - Honey de Peralta

“There’s a good community online, you can see all of these people sharing different opinions of the same book or different opinions of different books, and it’s just so nice to see readers from literally all around the world together reading the same books. It’s also nice I think in terms of engaging with others these days.. But I still reading like physical books... Whatever format you prefer you finding this community of readers because reading is a very personal experience.” - Katya Lichauco

“I think in our first collection we had about 50 different titles and it’s choosing the books you love... We went through thousands of different books presented to us by Harper Collins and Random House, etc., and it’s being able to choose and define the ones that you want to sell at the end of the day, we’re the ones stocking them. And if you actually go to my dining table, you’ll see books there that have sold out and then the leftovers. So it’s hit and miss with different titles but we try our best to present authors that we really love and titles we love...only books that I want to read myself.” - Enzo Santos

To watch the full webinar, visit our YouTube channel

MH | I N C A S E Y O U M I S S E D I T

COVID SMART Israel’s vaccination programme is a COVID-19 success story. The Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines, Rafael Harpaz, spoke about the country’s approach to achieving herd immunity for its citizens, tackling the job with the military precision for which Israel is famous. Seasoned broadast journalist Ces Drilon moderated.

“I’m very, very proud that Israel was as far as I know the first country in the world to vaccinate the Filipino OFWs in Israel. It was available to them all day, it’s open for them, no charge — 30,000 Filipinos, almost all OFWs in Israel vaccinated by us by Pfizer, in addition to the hundreds of students of TESDA and the Filipino staff of the Philippines Embassy in Israel. Every Filipino caregiver that travels now - in these days he is a caregiver - when he lands in Israel, he receives immediately the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine and after of 21 days he receives the second dose.

Rafael Harpaz, Israeli Ambassador

“About Israel’s success in beating COVID, there five pillars... The first one is we got the vaccines. We got it first, in December. Israel started its its national vaccination program on December 20th. I think we were one of the first or second countries in the world to do so. The second is our HMOs (health maintenance organizations). The third is that we are a high tech society… the data is being [shared] when you get the vaccines, and all the government systems know when you are getting the vaccines. The fourth is the role model of being vaccinated [as shown] by our leaders. And the fifth element is a campaign to fight fake news and to promote it people to go and ,be vaccinated and to give incentives to those people who have been vaccinated.” - Rafael Harpaz

Ces Drilon, Moderator

Bambina Olivares, Host

To watch the full webinar, visit our YouTube channel

MH | I N C A S E Y O U M I S S E D I T

GEOPOLITICAL REALITIES

Tensions with China and the issue of Philippine sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea will be contentious issues in the 2022 elections. Col. (Ret) Dencio “Dennis” Acop outlined the Chinese position, going back to events in history that have shaped China’s determination not just to dominate most of Asia, but to become the world’s undisputed superpower by 2049. Where there is peril, nevertheless, there are opportunities. “The real ‘build build build’ - how China tries to concretize its strategic goals… For [the Chinese], possession is 90% [of the law]. Island-building is meant to augment the status quo in at least two ways: by changing the strategic balance, because by occupying these areas which were unoccupied before… it’s really re-established the balance. Of course claimants are objecting, including the Philippines but again… China sees it differently.”

Col. (Ret) Dencio “Dennis” Acop

“Being able to do this - creating islands - is normally impossible for other nations to do is a power projection. It projects itself as a power of sorts - scientific power, military power, economic power… like being able to extend the territory out there. And of course commercial dominance - it naturally falls right into China’s space as an economic superpower.” Presented in partnership with:

To watch the full webinar, visit our YouTube channel

MH | I N C A S E Y O U M I S S E D I T

BEHIND THE SCENES

When we speak of the entertainment industry, we often forget there is a whole ecosystem involved in bringing a production to the screen or stage, as the camera is often focused on the actors. There are stars who work their magic on and behind the scene, and FilipinoAmerican stage directors, costume designers, directors, producers, directors, actors and artist advocates are making their presence felt on the international stage. We invited some of the most talented - a couple of them even multi-awarded - Filipino-Americans making waves today to talk about their individual journeys, the challenges they face, and how they use their platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion.

“It’s great that people are now getting representation and that we’re seeing different kinds of faces on TV and on stage, but I think sometimes it’s not always done in the right way, and that has to do with who’s telling the story, how it’s being presented, and who gets to make all these decisions… And that’s where I think on the production end, it’s nice to have more people of color, because they get to have a say as opposed to having a completely white narrative all the time. But I consider myself lucky to be at this stage in my career, at this particular point in time because I feel that there will only be more opportunities for me as the years go on.” - Nacho Tambunting Actor

“After George Floyd, I actually spoke up. I emailed a lot of my colleagues on my producing team about my representation, and I said, this has to stop. I have passed on since all the Broadway offers that have been brought to me. I couldn’t take it anymore. So now I am focusing again on the business side, trying to find that Asian money to bring in. As far as I’m concerned, no one else will give light to our stories but ourselves. That also comes with equity. We’ve got to bring in equity.” - Jhett Tolentino Award-winning Producer

“This idea of marginalized we should stop using the term ‘marginalized.’ We should say the historically oppressed… We share this history with the United States. We share this colonial history… Part of what we’re asking right now is how do we actually continue creating art in this capitalist environment and actually be conscious of social justice. And I actually don’t think those two are mutually exclusive. It goes to this question of hireability. I do think that part of being in this capitalist society is acknowledging that the capital, the original capital that was used in this country was stolen: the land was stolen and the labor capital was also stolen. So you have a nation that’s built on stolen land built by stolen people. And so for me, unless we acknowledge that… we’re participating in a system that pretends to be alright, and it isn’t. And within that system, you can be hired and still say what you need to say.” - Clint Ramos Award-winning Set and Costume Designer 20

MH | I N C A S E Y O U M I S S E D I T

BEHIND THE SCENES

“The most important thing is this: it’s the dollar. So to show that our stories, our narratives are valuable, we need to support our own. We need to double down, triple down.. For example, JoKoy. Steven Spielberg saw the power of JoKoy becuse all the shows that he does are packed to the brim, and not necessarily all Filipinos, right? And so I think it will open up if people see the power and the value of our dollars that go to support our stories. So how do we not get blacklisted if we say something? In Manila, if you complain you will get blacklisted. But here, there are anti-trust laws against that. So I think it’s a matter of training and being prepared so when that opportunity comes for all of us here that have been able to sort of get a shot at what we love to do, we have to be so primed so that when it’s our turn, we can use our collective voice to demand that we be given a platform.” - Giselle Tongi Actor and Advocate

“For example, the play Proof, why can’t it that be an Asian family? Why is it always the first basis, the first stop, casting for a white audience? Obviously there are probably some financial repercussions, but for me I look at dramatic literature as first and foremost an examination of the human condition; as an actor, as a theater director that is my job, to explore, to investigate the humanity. I am Filipino at heart, I filter my work through my Filipino blood and soul, and all of the conditioning forces and the training I have been fortunate enough to immerse myself in, but yes, I continue to explore a wide range of dramatic literature from my own people to other cultural aspects as well. If you haven’t noticed, there has been not only an exciting racial regurgitation of Shakespeare casting, but also gender… female King Lear, which is incredibly exciting.” - Victor Lirio Producer and Director

“A couple of years ago, during The King & I, I started a small platform on Facebook and Instagram called the Diversity Project, and therein was where we shouted out any instance where there was a nontraditional, so to speak, casting, in order to encourage casting directors and companies to kind of reward their behavior when they did something that was out of the box. And it grew quite large, because that’s what people wanted to see. We were kind of tired of being relegated to, like in every Broadway show, there was always, back in the day, one black boy, one black girl, one Asian boy, one Asian girl dancer and the ensemble. And those were the people that you looked for. They were never the people on the poster, they’re never the leads - they may be playing your sassy friend, but the numbers are still abysmal.” - Diane Phelan Actor and Activist Presented in partnership with:

To watch the full webinar, visit our YouTube channel

MH | O N S H O W

AFTER A FASHION

On the walls of Manila House this month are the stunning photographs by artist Jay Yao (Jose Campos III), taken between 2013-2015.

MH | O N S H O W

“Unlike the internet where we have a constant feed of visual ephemera attempting to gain our attention brought about by machine learning algorithms, I hope these visualpieces give you a quiet respite before you reconnect with living in a mixed reality world (between the virtual and physical). “These works are dated between 2013-2015. “I interviewed local Filipino fashion designers on their childhood memories and creative spaces. After the interview, I’d go back to the locations mentioned and request random bystanders I encountered if they would wear outfits from the designer I interviewed. The physically manifested works from the fashion designers collided with the present as I photographed in the spaces that were pinpointed from the different interviews.” -Jay Yao

ABOUT JAY YAO Jay Yao (Jose Campos III) expresses his flair in the arts through photography. Born in Vancouver, Canada, Yao is an alumnus of Hampshire College, Parsons School of Design, and Columbia University. He moved to New York to further his skills in photography. He demonstrates his versatility in a variety of subject matters, including portraiture, landscapes, cityscapes, mundane objects, and people through his art exhibits and personal projects.

MH | C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S

ZOOMING IN Join us on Zoom for our programme of informative, entertaining and illuminating talks which encompass art & design, culture, history and current events

ERGONOMICALLY SPEAKING:

Avoiding WFH Aches and Pains July 6, 2021 Tuesday at 6PM

When the world went on lockdown, work from home (WFH) took off, revolutionizing the office by bringing it into the home. The appeal of WFH is obvious: no more long commutes in traffic, more time with kids and pets, and a more relaxed dress code. But as more companies expand and embrace remote working, a major downside has emerged: new or worsening back, neck, leg, and shoulder pain. As convenient as it has been, WFH can be a pain in the neck - literally. While we’ve all quickly adapted to the demands of WFH, our bodies may be bearing the brunt of our makeshift offices. Francis Diano PT, MCMT, an orthopedic and sports specialist offers tips to make your WFH situation more ergonomic, providing movement fixes for common aches and pains that may plague us. Presented in partnership with:

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THE BODY IS WILLING BUT THE SPIRIT RESISTS: Mental Health and Sports July 14, 2021 Wednesday at 10AM It takes more than physical prowess to become an athlete. How do you balance athletic performance and mental health? How do you stay fit physically and mentally? Ownerplayer of FC Maharlika and former Azkals team member Anton del Rosario, Dr. Natasha Esteban-Ipac, Adolescent Medicine Specialist, TJ Manotoc, Sportscaster and Mental Health Advocate, and Akiko Thomson, TV Host and Champion Swimmer discuss the relationship between the body and the mind when it comes to sports.

Presented in partnership with:

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Please make payment to: Bank Name: UnionBank Name: Manila House Private Club Inc. Account No: 00 202 0031640

Paypal: accountsreceivable@manilahouseinc.com GCash: please scan the QR Code

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BEYOND FOOD:

The Dining Experience July 21, 2021 Wednesday at 4PM Some of life’s best memories are created at the dining table. Dining is an experience that goes beyond what is served; food is but one component of a successful meal. Other elements come into play, which make a meal memorable or mediocre, such as the service, the ambience and the company. Listen to our speakers talk about the importance of setting standards, whether you’re dining at home or in a restaurant.

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Please make payment to: Bank Name: UnionBank Name: Manila House Private Club Inc. Account No: 00 202 0031640

Paypal: accountsreceivable@manilahouseinc.com GCash: please scan the QR Code 26

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WHAT’S COOKING?

When Chefs Become Authors July 28, 2021 Wednesday at 5PM

Cookbooks, it is said, are more than just a compilation of recipes. They provide an insight into the mind of a chef, the culinary masters whose profession is both art and science. Listen to our four creative chefs and bakers dish out about the cookbooks they’ve written.

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OPTION B

Registration and Calzone with Iced tea: Php1,000* (Fee may be deducted from Member’s F&B voucher) *Delivery charge is separate

Please make payment to: Bank Name: UnionBank Name: Manila House Private Club Inc. Account No: 00 202 0031640

Paypal: accountsreceivable@manilahouseinc.com GCash: please scan the QR Code