2020 - MANILA UP Magazine - Jan-Feb

MONACO MALAYSIA UNITED KINGDOM PHILIPPINES UNITED STATES OF AMERICA THAILAND GERMANY CANADA

VOL. 5 #1

INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE

BRITISH MUSEUM BLOOMSBURY LONDON AKSYONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS: PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY MARTIN ANDANAR

HERMÈS PARTY “IN PURSUIT OF DREAMS” HEAR US ROAR: THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS HONORS MANILA UP!

KRYSTAL VON SEYFRIED

INSIDE 6 KRYSTAL VON SEYFRIED By: Naiia Lajoie

Krystal strives to use her modeling as a platform for offering something of substance to the general public. Her Instagram account is a collection of her writings, given she feels as though people do not pick up books anymore.

82 HERMÈS Party “In Pursuit of Dreams”

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By: Agile Zamora

Mutya ng Pilipinas

The HERMÈS Party, aptly themed “In Pursuits of Dreams”, took place in the Maybank Performing Arts Theater at the BGC Arts Center. Like the events that had preceded it, it was yet another excitement-filled and aweinspiring Hermès party this past year.

Mutya Pilipinas one of the longest running beauty pageants in the Philippines established in 1968 a grassroots-based national organization relaunched its brand with a new team headed by its President, Cory Quirino, media celebrity and a veteran in beauty pageantry.

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ISTANBUL, TURKEY

By: Anna Marie Mateescu

22 Hear us ROAR: The Board of Public Works honors Manila Up! By: Naiia Lajoie

As this is the first edition of this century’s “Roaring Twenties”, Manila Up! would like to roar with pride at the accolades received by the multiple Manila Up! staff members during our 4th Anniversary soiree.

62 45 British Museum – Bloomsbury London The British Museum in London is the first public national museum in the world. It keeps about eight million works that pertain to human history, art, and culture that come from all over the world. It is the mother museum of the Natural History Museum

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Aksyons Speak Louder than Words: Presidential Communications Secretary Martín Andanar Interviewed by Publisher: Sonia Dionela Bermejo Transcribed by: Naiia Lajoie

With the sensationalism surrounding US politics, particularly the controversy regarding recent American Press Secretaries, one cannot help but wonder whether other nations follow suit when it comes to government and public relations

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SONIA DIONELA BERMEJO Publisher/Executive Editor

EDITOR EDITH Y. PENDLETON

MARKETING DIRECTOR RUDY MUNOZ STILES

PR MARKETING/ PRODUCTION NIKKI KOR

Associate Editor NAIIA LAJOIE

PRODUCTION/ MARKETING ASST. LINDSLEY FAVIS

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MONTE CARLO Monaco: Fashion, Style & Travel ANGELINA KALI

THAILAND Siam Living MARICEL DIAZ

MALAYSIA Sugar Queen SAMANTHA GOH

UNITED STATES: NEW YORK Street Photography SYLVIA ZAMORA

GERMANY Secrets of Success SILVIJA POPOVIC

Coffee Break with J JEANETTE MARCO

PHILIPPINES

On Call ROMULO AROMIN, JR. MD

In Other Worlds BECKY GARCIA

Pulsong Gotham GKN CASTELLANES

Walk my Way MAYENNE CARMONA Metro Scene JOY FONG Proverbs 31 Woman JHOANNA DE GUZMAN Party People AGILE ZAMORA UNITED KINGDOM: LONDON Kingdom Adventures GILDA PINEDA DIONELA

Erick Salamatin

On the Beat FE KOONS From Hollywood to Asia ROBERT D. WOMACK Soaring High with Fides MARIE ANTOINETTE CENIZA Glass Half Fil NAIIA LAJOIE Talk This Way TEE PARK Dine Travel in Style GRACE AGUILAR

Mental Wellness JANIE LACY

Grand Adventure ANNA MARIE MATEESCU

LOS ANGELES In and Out of Red Carpet JANET NEPALES

Immigration Professor’s Corner ROBERT PERKINS, ESQ

Filipino Kibitzer RUBEN NEPALES

MANILA UP! MAGAZINE

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GRAPHIC ARTIST

FLORIDA Life’s Journey MELODY GARCIA

3756 W. Avenue 40 #160, Los Angeles, CA 90065 USA Email: manilaup@gmail.com Website: www.manilaupmagazine.com Follow us: FB, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, Issuu

Beautiful Life MONET LU

Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.

ISBN 231-256-2-16

PHOTOGRAPHERS Jophel Huffman Joe Garcia Tony Garcia Ramie Dador Arnold Capati Marc Pacheco Ken Hugh Danny Go Lorna Llanes Arezoo Jalili James Giovanni Pan WEBSITE DESIGNER Allan Mark Paanio

HAWAII Maui Mania EDITH PENDLETON

SPB ADVERTISING SERVICES

178 J. Asinas St., Barangay Sta. Lucia, San Juan City Marketing Company/Philippines Contact Person: Susan B. San Pascual Telephone No. : (+632) 8814-3775

Mobile Number: (+63918) 909-9032 E-mail address: susansanpascual@gmail.com

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Suffice to say 2019 will be a tough act to follow. With Manila Up!’s staff having garnered acknowledgement across various events – from our newest writer being nominated during the LA Press Club’s SoCal Journalism Awards to our established journalists being awarded during the Gawad Amerika Awards, as well as multiple staffers receiving Certificates of Recognition from the Board of Public Works in the City of Los Angeles during our 4th Anniversary – we are excited to see what opportunities we will rack up during the Year of the Rat. As I reflect on having been recognized as a Publisher/Executive Editor by Mayor Eric Garcetti himself, along with his city that I and we here at Manila Up! love so much, we too are in mourning over the recent loss of Black Mamba #24, Kobe Bryant, along with his daughter Gigi and all others lost in the helicopter crash. It is something that we journalists are deeply saddened to write about and report on.

Kobe famously said, “Everything negative - pressure, challenges - is all an opportunity for me to rise”. We too as a city, in the wake of this tragedy, much find a way to rise. And we at Manila Up! promise to rise to the occasion this year, in providing you our dedicated readers the accurate reporting that you crave and news coverage that you deserve. Everything from public events, to the latest fashion, to international travel; we guarantee that our 5th year will be one to reckon with.

As we eagerly anticipate providing journalism worthy of additional recognition, we can also divulge that we have surprise projects in the works. You will just have to stay tuned in order to see what lies ahead for the Manila Up! team.

Thank you for everything, 2019. Bring it on, 2020!

“Great things come from hard work and perseverance. No excuses.”

-Kobe Bryant 1978 – 2020 manilaupmagazine.com

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COVER STORY

Photography by Dylan Perlot Makeup by Sarah Nelson Styling by Catherine Hayes Wardrobe by Now PR LA

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COVER STORY

HEALING KRYSTAL The Right Mind, Body, and Soul By: Naiia Lajoie Cover photo by Mario Arcena

Recent online articles and social media advertising show that alternative medicine – crystals specifically – are “trending”. Sought after for their magical properties and kept close for their healing powers, precious metals, semi-precious stones, and even natural occurring magnets have been coveted for medicinal purposes for several millennia. But is there a true science to this phenomenon, or is it simply “mind over matter”?

The same thought process surrounding a piece of healing limestone can also be applied to the limelight. Celebrity status can be equal parts invigorating, while also fleeting, draining, and trending. Just ask Krystal von Seyfried – and just like her crystal namesake, she is equal parts grounded scholar, charged model, and earthy mystic.

Krystal is a half Filipina-half German model born and raised in Los Angeles’ Koreatown. Her mother is a Filipina from Balut in the Tondo district of Manila, while her father is of German ancestry from Munich. Coming from what she considers a happy childhood, Krystal went through what she deems as her “ugly phase” during middle school, where she had a penchant for history, mythology, and anthropology. To this day, the self-proclaimed nerd is passionate about spirituality and metaphysics.

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COVER STORY Photography by Dylan Perlot Makeup by Sarah Nelson Styling by Catherine Hayes Wardrobe by Now PR LA

Her upbringing and employment echo this; she grew up shrouded in Catholicism and works part-time at a jewelry store office that specializes in sustainable artisan jewelry in Downtown LA’s Jewelry District. Constantly surrounded by crystals, it is no wonder she identifies as an “energy worker”, trying to keep herself pure by avoiding any body modifications such as tattoos or surgeries (which is no easy feat in Los Angeles, let alone the entertainment industry). Based on her beliefs and personal experiences, she is particularly against what is dubbed the “sugar baby” culture, wherein young women enjoy being fawned over by older men; offering them gifts, favors, and services in exchange for companionship.

While this may sound like the fundamentals of somebody who cloisters themselves in the dark confines of a library, Krystal is actually a model.

Having retired from her former life of pageantry by age 24, she has set a new year’s resolution of landing more print work in 2020. The model also wants to branch out into the acting world, already having starred in music videos by Chinese rapper Higher Brothers, other Filipino artists, and her friends’ short films. Krystal has always been interested in acting and wants to create her own YouTube channel. Her motives are not self-aggrandizing as one may think; she explains, “Escapism is necessary because this world is hard”.

Krystal strives to use her modeling as a platform for offering something of substance to the general public. Her Instagram account is a collection of her writings, given she feels as though people do not pick up books anymore.

She uses her online following as a way to teach so that hopefully others may learn. This has not been a seamless transition, but she remains unfazed; “Likes have gone down since doing the scholarly thing. But the algorithm has made it go down in general”. She continues on that train of thought:

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COVER STORY Photography by Dylan Perlot Makeup by Sarah Nelson Styling by Catherine Hayes Pink dress by Puey Quinones

Photography by Dylan Perlot Makeup by Sarah Nelson Styling by Catherine Hayes Yellow dress by Silvana Tedesco

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COVER STORY

A lot of people are self-conscious about their likes. I refuse to buy likes, even if it makes me look less popular. The people who are interested are the right people. My publicist found me on IG and wanted to represent me, because they liked me more than other Instagram models. Even my Filipino stage manager found my page through my comment on one of Catriona [Gray]’s posts.

‘She’s so deep’ they said. [Catriona and I are] both half Filipino; we’re attracting a similar energy.

I want to be seen as a model with substance, basically. I want them to feel who I am. After all, the poverty of human language cannot describe the soul of people.

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COVER STORY

It has not always been luck of the draw for this rock star. Krystal had to dig her way out after reaching rock bottom following a toxic relationship. In 2020 she hopes to transition into being her own person. At the end of 2018 Krystal broke up with her boyfriend of six years. When they began dating she was 16. He was 27. While she can now candidly speak on it, she acknowledges that back then learning how to be single was really hard. Things finally ended with who she now sees is a sexual predator when she was 23. “My brain was emotionally locked in a dungeon. 2019 was my first year out of the dungeon. I just want to be me without being attached to this person”.

Photos by: Mario Arcena Gowns by House of Yamani

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COVER STORY

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COVER STORY Photography by Dylan Perlot Makeup by Sarah Nelson Styling by Catherine Hayes Pink dress by Puey Quinones

While this is not the typical origin story of a pageant title-holding cover model – similar to the crystals she surrounds herself with – Krystal too feels as though she is being unearthed and polished. Much like the historic mysteries she buries herself in. “I’m very interested in the Trojan War; it wasn’t actually Troy that was found.

It should be in the Baltics”. This beauty with brains is set on piecing together Northern German Mythology, and is passionate about getting the two sides of her heritage out there. She wants to perpetuate actual history and anthropology by using her “pretty exterior” to garner interest. “I want to bring to light the things not taught in school, like linking the Philippines to India since Filipino history was destroyed by the Spaniards”.

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Photography by Dylan Perlot Makeup by Sarah Nelson Styling by Catherine Hayes Wardrobe by Now PR LA

Krystal foresees that she will explore ancient Philippines history, beginning with visiting the Philippines later in 2020. “I just know I’m going to be traveling this year. One day I would like to have a travel show”. It is a wonder that one so deep – and one with so many deep wounds – still manages to balance everything. Despite having gone through a lot of pain last year, she recounts a story of while at Fred Segal’s in Beverly Hills, someone recognized her through her celebrity. They asked if they could have their picture taken with her, perfectly illustrating that just because one was stuck between a rock and a hard place in the past, does not mean one needs to stay there. In being a former and current cover girl for Manila Up! Magazine, while she says she delights in having watched our publication grow, we too cannot wait to see what Krystal digs up next. n

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CAST AND DIRECTOR-WRITER QUENTIN TARANTINO OF “ONCE UPON A TIME IN...HOLLYWOOD”, BEST PICTURE-MUSICAL OR COMEDY

Pinoys grace the historic

On and Off the Red Carpet

by Janet Susan R. Nepales

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77TH ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS PHOTOS BY STHANLEE B. MIRADOR, GERRY VILLAROMAN, RUBEN V. NEPALES AND FILBERT DIEGO KUNG and HFPA

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ON AND OFF THE RED CARPET Los Angeles

There were a lot of special moments at the 77th annual Golden Globe Awards held recently at the International Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills.

First, there were the emotional speeches of Tom Hanks, who was the recipient of the Cecil B. DeMille Award, when he talked of his wife and his family and Kate McKinnon who presented the Carol Burnett Award to Ellen DeGeneres.

JANET NEPALES

MODEL-ACTRESS BESSIE BADILLA

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Then there was the powerful and empowering acceptance speech of preggy Michelle Williams who won Best Performance by an Actress in a Mini-Series for her performance in “Fosse/Verdon” about women’s rights and “Parasite” director-screenwriter Bong Joon-ho, who after bagging the Best Foreign Language Film award, spoke of “getting over the one-inch tall barrier of subtitles.” His critically-acclaimed film, “Parasite,” also became Korea’s first film to win a Golden Globe in that category.

TOM HANKS, CECILE B. DeMILLE AWARDEE

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ON AND OFF THE RED CARPET

LISA LEW, KENNETH BARLIS AND FILMMAKER RAYMUND GUTIERREZ

MICHELLE WILLIAMS, BEST ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR A MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION FOR “FOSSE/VERDON”

Awkwafina, the 31-year-old rapper-turned-actress, made history as well when she became the first Asian to bag the Best Performance by an Actress in a Lead Role – Musical or Comedy for her performance in Lulu Wang’s film, “The Farewell.”

Ramy Youssef, the 28-year-old American-Egyptian, also broke barriers as the first actor of Egyptian descent to win the Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy for his performance in the Hulu comedy series, “Ramy,” which he wrote-createdproduced-acted.

IMEE AND RICHARD MAGHANOY OF ISKIN

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ON AND OFF THE RED CARPET

Raymund Ribay Gutierrez, the director of the Philippines’ entry to the Oscars, Verdict,” was chosen to participate in the HFPA-sponsored second annual Residency Program in partnership with Film Independent.

Together with five other directors from various countries, Gutierrez will participate in a three-week program geared at emerging and mid-career filmmakers, created and sponsored by the HFPA as part of its commitment to support emerging film talent from around the world.

FIL-AM FROM SINGAPORE MICHAEL TUQUIB AND FRIEND JULIANNA LOZADA. MICHAEL WON BLEACHER SEATS AT THE GOLDEN GLOBES

AWKWAFINA, MODEL MARCELO OLGUIN WITH MICHAEL CINCO

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ON AND OFF THE RED CARPET Gracing the event this year, which was hosted by Ricky Gervais again for the fifth year, were internationally known fashion designer Michael Cinco, San Diegobased fashion designer Kenneth Barlis, former Balenciaga model-actress-beauty queen Bessie Badilla, beauty queen turned Emmy winning producer Lisa Manibog Lew Brennan, iSkin Spa Beverly Hills owners Richard and Imee Maghanoy and international model Marcelo Olguin.

Backstage, we were able to interview both Burnett and DeGeneres together. It was a rare precious moment for us and for the online viewers as they revealed their admiration for each other.

QUENTIN TARANTINO, BEST SCREENPLAY FOR “ONCE UPON A TIME IN ... HOLLYWOOD”

FORMER MISS UNIVERSE MARGARET GARDINER WITH HUSBAND, JANET AND RUBEN NEPALES AND IMEE MAGHANOY AT THE INTERNATIONAL BALLROOM OF THE GOLDEN GLOBES

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ON AND OFF THE RED CARPET

On the red carpet scene, Michael Cinco dressed up “Orange is the New Black” actress Laverne Cox in a billowy orange gown for her Warner Bros./InStyle after-party appearance while Alexis “Bong” Monsanto dressed up Olympian legend gold medalist Jacqueline Joyner-Kersee in a pink ruffled number.

Oliver Tolentino, on the other hand, dressed up former Miss Universe Margaret Gardiner in a black sequined gown for her Golden Globe appearance.

Singapore-based Pinoys Michael “Mike” Tuquib and friend Julianne Lozada were also the lucky recipients of bleacher tickets at the Golden Globes this year.

The 77th annual Golden Globe Awards also became historic and memorable when it featured its first ever plant-based menu and used glass water bottles instead of plastic ones in the awards show.

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RENEE ZELLWEGER, BEST ACTRESSDRAMA FOR “JUDY”

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ON AND OFF THE RED CARPET

BRAD PITT, BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR-DRAMA FOR “ONCE UPON A TIME IN ... HOLLYWOOD”

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ON AND OFF THE RED CARPET

TARON EGERTON OF “ROCKETMAN”, BEST ACTOR-MUSICAL OR COMEDY

JOAQUIN PHOENIX, BEST ACTOR-DRAMA FOR “JOKER”

As part of its sustainability efforts, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) served its first ever plant-based menu, making it the first major awards show to go all-vegan.

The HFPA is also planning to reuse the new red carpet this year at other events and to reduce waste by using glass water bottles instead of plastic.

“We don’t think we’ll change the world with one meal, but we decided to take steps to bring awareness. The food we eat, the way it is processed and grown and disposed of, all of that contributes to the climate crisis,” said HFPA President Lorenzo Soria.

We can’t wait for next year’s 78th celebration!n

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Manila Up staff receiving the awards from Jessica Caloza, board commissioner, Eva Bitarand Deputy Mayor Miguel Sangalang

HEAR US ROAR: GLASS HALF FIL

by Naiia Lajoie

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THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS HONORS MANILA UP! PHOTOS BY KEN HUGH

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GLASS HALF-FIL

Anna Fedosova, Elna Villaflor, Weng Yap

As this is the first edition of this century’s “Roaring Twenties”, Manila Up! would like to roar with pride at the accolades received by the multiple Manila Up! staff members during our 4th Anniversary soiree. ‘Twas an event to be had; the evening took place at the Hotel Constance in Pasadena last month and was heavily attended by those in the fashion & entertainment industries. There was quite literally royalty present – the event was emceed by none other than Prince MarioMax Schaumburg-Lippe (a European Royal through his German-Danish adoptive father) with several pageant titleholders and beauty queens in tow.

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The program consisted of a slide show, fashion show, singing and dancing performances, all watched by celebrities such as Pol’ Atteu & Patrik Simpson, former cover girls including Krystal von Seyfried, Elna Villaflor, Danielle Viray, Emmy von Seyfried, Aurora Belderol, Corazon Ugalde Armenta, Alyssa Guevara, Bichlien Nguyen & Kayla Sosin, and Manila Up! even had the pleasure of hosting a few of Los Angeles’ Fil-Am politicians. Miguel Sangalang (Deputy Mayor for Budget & Innovation for LA Mayor Eric Garcetti) was present with his dapperly dressed son, as was Jessica Caloza (a Commissioner on the Board of Public Works in the City of Los Angeles). Unbeknownst to Manila Up! publisher Sonia Bermejo, they were there for good reason aside from partaking in the festivities.

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GLASS HALF-FIL

The aforementioned prestigious members of the Filipino-American community bestowed many a Christmas cheer in the form of Certificates of Recognition to multiple staffers. CELIA S. ABUEL received recognition as our Social Media Photographer, GRACE AGUILAR as Correspondent/Writer, EDITHA Y. PENDLETON as our Editor in Hawaii, BECKY GARCIA & MAYENNE CARMONA as International Columnists both based in the Philippines, LUIS SINGSON a Philanthropist also based in the Philippines, JOE GARCIA & JAMES GIOVANNI PAN as our local Photographers, JOPHEL HUFFMAN as our Photographer in San Diego, as well as GILDA PINEDA DIONELA – our International Writer in London.

Lulu Nina

Sidney Garcia, Bichlien Nguyen, Sonia D Bermejo, Paulina Aguirre

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GLASS HALF-FIL

Patrik Simpon, Pol Atteu, Paulina Aguirre, Bichlien Nguyen, Corazon Armenta

DJ Motiv8

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The gift giving did not cease there, as more International Writers like MARICEL DIAZ based in Thailand, JHOANNA DE GUZMAN based in the Philippines, and MELODY GARCIA based in Florida also received the honor. At this point, I can humbly add that I too was a recipient of an honor, even after only having written for the magazine just over a year now. I, NAIIA LAJOIE, was recognized as a Journalist – after being one of three nominees for “Best Columnist” during the LA Press Club’s SoCal Journalism Awards, winning Outstanding International Journalist at the Gawad Amerika Awards, and now this – to say that I am speechless would be an understatement. The award sharing concluded with two final certificates received by Sonia herself; for Publisher/ Executive Editor to SONIA BERMEJO, and MANILA UP! MAGAZINE honored for accomplishing four years of print work.

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GLASS HALF-FIL

Zupanova and Catalysts Dancers

Eli Moesser, Jovi Boyd, Faye Dodge, Anna Fadosova, Nini Maldonado, Sonia Bermejo, Delia Green, Corazon Armenta

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GLASS HALF-FIL

Aurora Belderol

Hester Santos and Shani Hason

Print-based journalism shifted to electronic media in the 1920s. Sensationalism was rampant and people were excited to “read all about it”. After having ended 2019 with a bang, it is safe to say that we here at Manila Up! promise to keep our fact-checking inquisitiveness flapping and our keyboard fingers tapping to ensure you receive the most compelling news in the new year. Stay tuned! And thanks for reading. n

Weng Yap, Nanshi Ignacio, Jet Lovings, Lily Rudick, Paulina Aguirre, Elna Villaflor, Sonia Bermejo, Anna Marie Mateescu, Naiia Lajoie

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GLASS HALF-FIL

Designer Carl Andrada with the publisher

Designer Joey Galon and TV Producer Lisa Lew

Scott Kurachi with Stella Rosa Melissa Gonzalo

Rev. Rodrigo Quema

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PHOTOS BY MARIO ARCENA

GLASS HALF-FIL

Joss Gomez, Yamani Caliwara, Solecito Vazquez, Heather Ongpauco

Jessica Caloza, Rudy Munoz, Sonia D Bermejo, Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe

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GLASS HALF-FIL

Jessica Caloza, Royalties of Schaumburg-Lippe, parents of Prince MarioMax and Eva Bitar

Phil and Eli Moesser, Weng Yap, Rey Chudian, Ana Fedosova with husband, Faye Dodge and guest.

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PHOTOS BY MARIO ARCENA

Naiia Lajoie and Bichlien Nguyen

GLASS HALF-FIL

Patricia Odette and Monet Lu

The cover girls and the models with the Publisher

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OKSANA KALININA MONACO: FASHION, STYLE & TRAVEL

by Angelina Kali 32

COUTURE manilaupmagazine.com

MONACO: Fashion, STYLE & TRAVEL

London based designer Oksana Kalinina is a master of her craft. Arriving in London with only her top qualifications in all aspects of fashion and dressmaking. She was walking down the world-famous Saville Row one day and entered Hardy Amies. Due to her skill set, she was immediately offered a job even though she was the youngest by far. Rising quickly up the ranks, after a few years she was offered to work for Charlotte Casadejus, the famous vintage-style wedding dress designer. Her acquired skills gained her the recognition of her peers by winning the award for Best Haute Couture and Bespoke Designer, beating 16 of her international contemporaries.

When I first came across her brand, I immediately thought that her outfits would be perfect for Royal Ascot, one of the most important social events for high fashion

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attended by royals, nobles, business elite and high society. Her classic style has a timeless elegance, truly reflecting her brand philosophy of sophistication and nobleness.

Her perfectionism extends not only to her dress making but also to ensuring a complete look from head to toe for her clients. It is her personal attention dedicated to each and every client that has won her such a loyal following.

Oksana founded Oksana Kalinina Couture as a wedding dress maker. She draws inspiration from ancient Greece resulting in sophisticated and highly tailored wedding dresses. Whilst still sought after for her wedding dresses, Oksana wanted a wider outlet for her creativity.

It was an easy transition for her to also create elegant evening dresses which captivate the essence of elegance, femininity and high design.

Her couture is made-to-measure, tailored to perfectly complement the client’s personality and form.

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MONACO: Fashion, STYLE & TRAVEL

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MONACO: Fashion, STYLE & TRAVEL

She now also focuses on creating stunning day and evening outfits with a heavy influence from the 1950s and 60s. Using only natural fabrics such as wool, chiffon, silk, crepe and French lace, Oksana creates elegant outfits that emphasize the wearer’s natural beauty, femininity and inner confidence to the outside world. As Oksana aims for perfection, she also designs accessories and headpieces that perfectly complement her dresses.

For that reason, her outfits are just so suitable for Royal Ascot as hats are obligatory. Having been covered by many of the leading international publications and news outlets such as Tatlers, Harper’s Bazaar, MSNBC, USA Today and CNN. From my many attendances at Royal Ascot and recognised as one of the best dressed, I am super confident that by wearing one of Oksana Kalinina Couture outfits I will again be noticed by the world’s fashion critics even though competition will be fierce as most of the leading fashion brands and designers will be represented by the attendees. For that matter, I would be confident to wear her elegant outfits on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival or any other high society event. n

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FEATURE

Dual exposureNatally Primeau and Krystal von Seyfried

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FEATURE

Designer Yamani with the models

WELCOME TO MY HOUSE Yamani Caliwara & her House of Yamani Collection Photos by Ken Hugh Born and raised in the Philippines, it was apparent from a young age that Yamani Caliwara had a strong interest in the arts; be it design, beauty, fashion, and/or styling.

Coming from a family with an already established background in the fashion industry, she perpetuated the family’s artistic affinity in earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design as well as Fashion Styling at the STYLE 2020 Academy.

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House of Yamani is a culmination of both Yamani’s training and experience in the fashion industry. The Yamani brand allows you to embody your own personal character along with whatever status and image you want to project. It does so through a combination of personalized hair, makeup, and wardrobe; a collaboration of fashion styling services. Ultimately, they make sure you look and dress for success in every occasion.

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FEATURE

Alana Pine

Alyssa Guevara

Bichlien Nguyen

Danielle Viray

Elna Villaflor

Heaven

Model Jill Marucut

Yamani Caliwara, the designer

Kayla Sosin

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FEATURE

Jill Marucut, Kayla Sosin, Heather Ongpauco, Designer Yamani Caliwara, Danielle Viray and Alyssa Guevara

House of Yamani offers several styling packages: Bronze, Silver, and Gold.

The packages include Closet Assessment, Special Occasion Styling, Travel Packing, Closet Organization, Personal Shopping, Hair and Makeup, Tailoring – and more! House of Yamani expanded the business and product offerings by adding a premiere collection inspired by Yamani’s own personal style, beauty, and glamour. These pieces are classic, in that everyone can wear them all year round. n Website: www.houseofyamani.com Facebook: Yamani Caliwara Instagram: House Of Yamani

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GRAND ADVENTURE

ISTANBUL

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ISTANBUL, TURKEY. Formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, Istanbul is the most populous city in Turkey and is the country’s economic, cultural, and historic center.

Straddling the Bosporus strait (which separates Europe and Asia) between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea in Eurasia, its commercial and historical center lies on the European side with about a third of its population living in suburbs on the Asian side. With a total population of around 15 million in its metropolitan area, Istanbul is one of the world’s most populous cities, ranking as the world’s fourth largest city proper and the largest European city.

Christianity reigned during Roman and Byzantine times, before the Ottomans conquered the city and transformed it into an Islamic stronghold and the seat of the Ottoman Caliphate. Under the name Constantinople it was the Ottoman capital until 1923.

GRAND ADVENTURE

by ANNA MARIE MATEESCU

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GRAND ADVENTURE

Being in the strategic position between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, it was on the historic Silk Road which controlled rail networks between the Balkans and the Middle East, and was the only sea route between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. In 1923, after the Turkish War of Independence, Ankara was chosen as the new Turkish capital, and the city’s name was changed to Istanbul.

Nevertheless, the city maintained its prominence in geopolitical and cultural affairs.

The population of the city has increased tenfold since the 1950s, as migrants from across Anatolia have moved in and city limits have expanded to accommodate them.

In 2015 it was named a European Capital of Culture, making the city the world’s fifth most popular tourist destination. The city’s biggest attraction is its historic center, partially listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Winter is colder in Istanbul than in most other cities around the Mediterranean Basin, with low temperatures averaging 1–4 °C (34–39 °F). Early Byzantine architecture followed the 42

classical Roman model of domes and arches, but improved upon these elements, as in the Church of the Saints Sergius and Bacchus. The oldest surviving Byzantine church in Istanbul— albeit in ruins—is the Monastery of Stoudios (later converted into the Imrahor Mosque).

Istanbul became more homogenized since the end of the Ottoman Empire. The vast majority of people across Turkey, and in Istanbul, are Muslim, and more specifically members of the Sunni branch of Islam. Most Sunni Turks follow the Hanafi school of Islamic thought, while Sunni Kurds tend to follow the Shafi’i school. The largest non-Sunni Muslim group, accounting 10–20% of Turkey’s population Since the mid-1990s, Istanbul’s economy has been one of the fastest-growing among metro-regions. With its high population and significant contribution to the Turkish economy, Istanbul is responsible for two-fifths of the nation’s tax revenue. That includes the taxes of 37 US-dollar billionaires based in Istanbul, the fifth-highest number among cities around the world.

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RISE AND FALL OF CONSTANTINOPLE & BYZANTINE EMPIRE

Constantine the Great became the emperor of the Roman Empire. Two months later, he laid out the plans for a new, Christian city to replace Byzantium. As the eastern capital of the empire, the city was named Nova Roma; most called it Constantinople, a name that persisted into the 20th century. On the 11th of May in 330, Constantinople was proclaimed the capital of the Roman Empire, which was later permanently divided between the two sons of Theodosius upon his death. The city then became the capital of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire.

The establishment of Constantinople was one of Constantine’s most lasting accomplishments, shifting Roman power eastward as the city became a center of Greek culture and Christianity. Numerous churches were built across the city, including Hagia Sophia which was built during the reign of Justinian the Great & remained the world’s largest cathedral for a thousand years.

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BLUE MOSQUE, ISTANBUL

Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a historic mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It remains a functioning mosque, while also attracting large numbers of tourist visitors. It was constructed between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Ahmed I. Its Külliye contains Ahmed’s tomb, a madrasah and a hospice.

BURSA, TURKEY

The metropolis of Bursa, Turkey in northwestern Anatolia is a lively and historic city that boasts countless points of interest.

Bursa’s roots can be traced back to 5200 B.C., the year the area was first settled. What is now Turkey’s fourth-largest city swapped hands between the Greek, Bithynia, and Roman Empires before it became the first major capital of the Ottoman Empire between 1335 and 1363.

YESIL CAMI

Very different from the previous architecture that had its roots in the Seljuk aesthetic, the Yeşil Cami was built between 1412 and 1419 for Mehmet I. Named after the green hues of its interior tiles, the beautiful structure is bedecked in intricate carved marble and calligraphy.

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MURADIYE COMPLEX

Due to the Muradiye complex’s park and historic cemetery, it’s one of the city’s most serene places to wander about. The Sultan Murat II Mosque, built in 1426, is also part of the complex and impresses with its decorations that are similar to the Yeşil Cami.

BEST THING TO DO IN BURSA

Take the teleferik up Uludağ. In the wintertime, Uludağ is a snowy winter wonderland. In the summer, the mountain is a cool, refreshing getaway from the heat.

The recently reopened teleferik (cable car) makes getting up and down the mountain fast and easy. Spend a day or two skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling in the winter, or enjoy hiking, picnicking, and playing in the mountain streams and meadows in the warmer months.

At the very least, take the teleferik up to Sarıalan and grill your own meat right next to your table at the famous Palabıyık Restaurant.

CUMALIKIZIK

Visit Cumalıkızık and eat a village breakfast.

Cumalıkızık is a wonderful Ottoman village just outside the city known for its cobblestone streets, quaint houses, and excellent village breakfasts.

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Explore the downtown bazaar area. Bursa’s sprawling, labyrinth central bazaar area is a fantastic place for shopping, eating, sipping tea, watching people, taking photos, experiencing the culture, interacting with locals, and wandering aimlessly. Koza Han and the Ulu Cami’i (Grand Mosque) are two highlights in the central bazaar area. If you can find it, have a cup of tea in the quiet and hidden Çukur Han. If you’re serious about exploring Bursa’s historical areas, here’s a self-guided walking tour that we’ve developed.

Enjoy Bursa’s thermal springs at a spa or hamam. Bursa’s volcanic natural history has resulted in hot, mineralrich springs that public bathhouses have tapped for centuries. Today, you can still take advantage of the therapeutic hot spring water at traditional hamams (Turkish baths) or at modern spas scattered throughout the city. One of the city’s oldest is the recently renovated Eski Kaplıca Hamam in Çekirge. Visiting a hamam is highly recommended as a relaxing way to enjoy the local culture.

One of the largest natural harbors in the world, Istanbul’s Golden Horn, or Haliç in Turkish, spans 7.5 kilometers.

It cuts into the European side of Istanbul where the Bosporus meets the Marmara Sea. Splitting the oldest section of Istanbul in half, the estuary was formed when valleys fed by the Alibey and Kağıthane streams flooded eons ago. It now defines the city’s peninsula, home to “Old Istanbul,” where Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sofia, the Grand Bazaar and other famous structures still sit. n

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LOOKING AT THE PAST TO SEE THE FUTURE KINGDOM ADVENTURE

(BRITISH MUSEUM – BLOOMSBURY LONDON)

by GILDA PINEDA DIONELA manilaupmagazine.com

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KINGDOM ADVENTURE

British Museum in London is the first public national museum in the world. It keeps about eight million works that pertain about human history, art and culture that came from different parts of the world. It is the mother museum of Natural History Museum. The Museum has ten curatorial and research departments. I am interested in Middle East and Egypt Departments where it all began.

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KINGDOM ADVENTURE

I believe that the Bible is the authentic written record of the history of man. For us to trace back our history we relied on things and places left behind by generations who were there before us. I am an avid follower of biblical creationists and biblical archaeologists among others and it is a great joy to discover evidences of the Bible. However, I do not regard evidence above the Word of God. For me, the Bible remains to be the highest authority even in the absence of evidence. But if evidence is available, I appreciate it even more. That is why I laud British Museum so much because hundred thousands of evidences about the Bible are there.

THE BIBLE AND MESOPOTAMIA (MIDDLE EAST DEPARTMENT)

Ancient Mesopotamia, the land between two rivers Tigris and Euphrates, was composed of; Babylonians, Sumerians and Assyrians. The scope of modern-day Mesopotamia is Iraq, parts of north and east Syria and parts of south east Turkey. Assyria was one of the ancient powerful nation, its arts and architecture were discovered in many British excavations and kept in the British Museum. During the last century of Assyria’s power and dominance, the old capital Ashur was the religious, ceremonial and cultural centre, while Nineveh was the place of royal power. Ashur region was located at the southernmost edge of rain fed farming area while the Nineveh area was one of the most fertile regions in northern Mesopotamia. In the 7th century Nineveh became the capital of Assyria. Nineveh was mentioned several times in the Bible. In the book of Jonah (793753 BC), God sent him to Nineveh to call the people to repent. The people repented and believed God not because an ordinary foreigner like Jonah shouted out loud in the prosperous city but there were visible

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manifestations of God’s power. Before the Lord spoke to Nineveh through Jonah, the Lord spoke through series of events in nature, political and military; and extraordinary miracles. The cuneiform tablet called Assyrian Chronicle and the Bible recorded it accurately; 1) In nature - total sun eclipse on 15 June 763 BC, described also in Amos 8;9 under King Jeroboam II (786-746 BC); great wind and violent storm (Jonah 1:4); calmed the sea (Jonah 1:15); scorching east wind (Jonah 4:8) 2) Military/political Defeat – Revolt in the Citadel (763-762 BC); Assyria’s decline in power (2Kings 14:26-28) 3) Extraordinary Miracle– Jonah inside the belly of the fish for 3 days and 3 nights, Jonah drowned (Jonah 2:6) and the Lord resurrected him, the big fish vomited Jonah, the Lord provided leafy plant; worm which chewed the plant to wither When the Lord sent a prophet like Jonah, He sent the accompanying confirmation of what the prophet had spoken. Prophets are ordinary people having extraordinary calling to speak for God. But before speaking on behalf of God, the prophet must hear from God. The attributes of God displayed when the people of Nineveh repented after Jonah preached; God is merciful to His chosen people and the Gentiles alike if they feared and listened to Him even in the Old Testament times.

The repentance of Nineveh was short lived. About one hundred fifty years after Nineveh went back to their false gods and wickedness. God sent another prophets namely Nahum and Zephaniah to announce the judgement because of their cruelty, wickedness and inhumanity.

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KINGDOM ADVENTURE In Nahum 1:14 ESV (645-615 BC) ‘The Lord has given commandment about you: “No more shall your name be perpetuated from the house of your gods I will cut off the carved image and the metal image. I will make your grave, for you are vile.” and in Zephaniah 2:13 ESV (620 BC) “And he will stretch out his hand against the north and destroy Assyria, and he will make Nineveh a desolation, a dry waste like the desert”. In 612 BC the Lord exercise justice and let the Babylonians destroyed Nineveh.

The Word of the Lord given in advance to Nahum and Zephaniah came to pass. Those words were not only written on pages of the Bible but a reality we witnessed and proven in modern times. Nineveh was one of the exhibits that the Bible is not mere written words but in mighty POWER! For almost 2500 years its ruins had been under the earth as prophesied by Nahum and Zephaniah until it was discovered by archaeologist Claudius Rich in 1820, Botta in 1840 and Austen Layard from 1845 to 1851. The latter discovered thousands of cuneiform writings. In 1853 Layard’s assistant Hormuzd Rassam continued the work and discovered sculptures, the Library of Ashurbanipal king of Assyria (668-

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627 BC) and fragments of cuneiform tablets. George Smith who was working for British Museum, a selftaught and devoted Christian was able to decipher the cuneiform tablets in 1866. He found out the similarity of cuneiform tablets to the book of Genesis. There were missing fragments on the story of the flood. The London Daily Telegraph sponsored him to expedite the missing fragments in Nineveh. In just five days out of 30,000 cuneiform tablets he found it and he completed the famous Epic of Gilgamesh and Babylonian Epic of Creation. These could only be the Holy Spirit who led George Smith. These tablets are compilation of literary texts, preserved, and kept passed from one generations to the next through disciplined, learned and welltrained scribes. Being copied and taught diligently in the palace, community and household that is why it was kept intact for two thousand five hundred years. Modern day Nineveh is in Kouyunjik, Iraq. Beside it, is another mound known as Tell Neby Yumus- the Hill of prophet Jonah. The place where Jonah preached to the people of Nineveh. The tomb of Jonah was reported to be blown up by ISIS in 2014 and retaken by Iraqi Army in 2017.

An evidence and proof that Jonah was real human being and Nineveh was a real place as recorded in the Bible.

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JONAH AND JESUS

The Bible is a complete book that described who God is.

His mercy and grace ever present from the beginning of creation that man often ignored such as sunrise, flowers in the spring and mountains among others. If man has forgotten God sent a prophets. Among several powerful and anointed prophets, it is well to note that Jesus compared Himself to Jonah though the miracles performed by other prophets such as Moses displayed that God is the God of Creation too. A strong words Jesus has spoken, Matthew 12:39-40 ESV ‘But he answered them, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth”. As I understood it, the greatest miracle of all that man can experience is death and resurrection (eternal life) through the death and resurrection of Son of God, Jesus Christ being the first fruit.

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KINGDOM ADVENTURE

There are some people who do not believe in hell because God is merciful, loving and will never let man go to hell no matter who they are and what they have done. They have forgotten God is just. The meeting place of these two opposites, mercy and judgement is at the cross of Jesus Christ.

When God’s only begotten Son died on the cross, Jesus took the punishment that belong to us.

The message of Jonah was repentance. If man will be saved no matter who they are and what they believed, go to British Museum and looked at the fragments of what was left on once enormous, prosperous and magnificent city who ignored the Word of God. No man, woman, organization, city or nation is more powerful than the Word of God. The Lord is not weak that He cannot act on atrocity, mockery, injustice and violence but He is patient and giving everyone the opportunity, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. Heaven and Hell are real places as real as Nineveh. The message of repentance is given not to terrify people but to invite people to choose everlasting joy found only in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. n

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MANOLO OF STEEL:

CELEBRATING A CENTENNIAL

TJ & Lisa Parpan, Leanna Carmona, Edvee Cruz, Manolo Carmona, Quenby Go, Jose P. De Leon, Monch Cruz, Charlie Carmona

Move over, Superman! There is a new hero in town, and he is seemingly as invincible as he is well-loved. Urdaneta Village’s most senior resident Manolo Carmona just celebrated his 100th birthday. Friends and relatives from all over the world flew in to attend the Centenarian’s birthday given it is such a rarity nowadays.

Manolo’s children – Charlie, Mayenne, Annie, Loudette, Marissa, and Bing – assisted by the birthday celebrant’s office staff, organized the grand occasion.

WALK MY WAY

by Mayenne Carmona

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The event took place at Urdaneta Village’s Friendship Hall, where it was attended by 200 of Manolo’s friends, relatives, and his office personnel. Even his golf buddies from Wack Wack (where he served as President for two terms) were present. Taking a break from their practice swings, the members and officers of the Wack Wack Golf & Country Club honored the centuryold celebrant with a good old fashioned party on the green at the club days prior to his actual birthday. manilaupmagazine.com

WALK MY WAY

Annie C. Kuhnke, Celebrant Manolo Carmona, Mayenne Carmona

Biba San Agustin, Manolo Carmona, Vicky Schmid, Mayenne Carmona, Vicky Assad

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Stephan C. Chan, Alana Vicente

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WALK MY WAY

Heartwarming tributes filtered in, filling eyes with tears of joy; Francis de Borja, a longtime friend, and Vicky Schmid, his Golden Tee Golf partner of five years, contributed to the highlight reel of the evening.

After a sumptuous Filipino-themed dinner – complete with lechon, bibingka, puto bung bong, and a sorbetero cart – guests were ready to rock & roll with Ramon Jacinto and his lively band. Manolo’s grandson Stephan Carmona Chan sang a few of his Lolo’s favorite Spanish songs, much to the birthday boy’s delight. With the light of love lifting up his spirits and lighting up his eyes, it is no wonder that Manolo made it to 100. After such a fitting celebration for a Centenarian who had led a purpose-driven life, this just goes to show that in pursing what you love and surrounding yourself with those you love, you will add years to your life and life to your years. n

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Jhoanna de Guzman, Luis Singon, Becky Garcia, Mayenne Carmona, Sonia Bermejo

HONOR ROLL: UNVEILING THE MANILA UP! 4TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION PHOTOS BY LORNA LLANES

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WALK MY WAY At this point, the Manila Up! staff is no stranger to the Manila Hotel’s Champagne Room; as much a place for socializing as it is celebration, Manila Up! was at it again in the iconic hotel, this time celebrating its December issue of the magazine.

Many heeded the call to this celebratory occasion.

US-based cover girl Corazon Ugalde Armenta and Australian resident Helsa Tooley were in tow, flying in from afar to attend the event. Guest of honor Governor Chavit SINGSON – cover of the December issue – graced all with his presence. To him, publisher Sonia Dionela Bermejo presented a Certificate of Recognition from the Public Works Department of the City of Los Angeles.

Mayor Luis Chavit Singon and Publisher

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Also awarded were writers Becky Garcia, Mayenne Carmona, and Jhoanna de Guzman. Guests Joy Fong, Agile Zamora, and Dr. George Sarankinis cheered on their fellow contributors.

Corazono Ugalde Armenta and Mayor Luis Singson

Sonia Bermejo, Jhoanna de Guzman, Mayenne Carmona, Becky Garcia, Luis Singson and Joy Fong

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WALK MY WAY

Mayor Luis Singson, Becky Garcia and Sonia Bermejo

Joy Fong, Jhoanna de Guzman, Agile Zamora, Sonia Bermejo, Mayenne Carmona, Luis Singson,Becky Garcia, Corazon Armenta, & Helsa Tooley

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Sonia Bermejo, Helsa Tooley, Corazon Armenta with Mayor Luis Singson

Columnists Joy Fong and Mayenne Carmona with publisher Sonia D Bermejo

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WALK MY WAY

Champagne Room Dinner

Such a momentous occasion calls for an equally magnanimous menu; Helsa Tooley and Sonia Bermejo combed through the succulent delicacies to ensure that guests, honorees, and staff members alike could sink their teeth into something of high gastronomical standards that matched their prestige as well.

Following the success of the 4th Anniversary party across the pond prior, this Manila-based celebration echoed the enchantment felt on that night. It was the perfect successor to the successful American launch, and was a sight to behold. As the Manila Up! Honor Roll grows, so too are its contributors on a roll. n

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FEATURE

AKSYONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS: INTERVIEWING PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY MARTIN ANDANAR Interviewed by Publisher: Sonia Dionela Bermejo Transcribed by: Naiia Lajoie

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FEATURE With the sensationalism surrounding US politics, particularly the controversy regarding recent American Press Secretaries, one cannot help but wonder whether other nations follow suit when it comes to government and public relations. Since his election in 2016, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has come under direct media scrutiny and has been a subject of comparison to the United States’ own leader Donald Trump. That being said, do their cabinets compare?

Manila Up! Publisher and Executive Editor Sonia Bermejo was afforded the opportunity to interview Secretary of the Presidential Communications Office of the Philippines Martín Andanar, and coming from a broadcaster background himself, this exclusive discusses what internal policies are like directly from the source.

Secretary Andanar’s academic journey begins at the Pilot Elementary School in Surigao City. His father hails from Surigao, which Andanar proudly states is the surfing capital of the Philippines. He finished his elementary level studies at Xavier University in Ateneo de Cagayan, and thereafter spent his high school years in Cagayan de Oro as well as Quezon City, Manila. He went on to attend the University of the PhilippinesLos Baños, but due to a lack of interest in his studies he opted to move to Australia with his mother instead, where he subsequently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Political Studies & Film and Media Studies from Federation University. Like so many of his fellow Australian classmates, he worked during this time to make ends meet. He found employment working in a Chinese restaurant, in addition to being a radio presenter for a station in Melbourne.

Andanar returned to the Philippines in 1998 where he capitalized on his degree and practical newscaster experience, garnering him a job as a news anchor for GMA 7. He bounced around networks; from GMA to the People’s Television Network (PTV) and onto ABC 5 (now TV5), ultimately working on Philippine air for sixteen years. During this time he held the positions of news executive, on cam anchor, radio anchor, audio/ image voice over, and even initiated the creation of the “online news portal” of TV5 – all leading up to his departure in 2016.

While his on camera personality had to remain apolitical, Andanar’s personal life was quite politically charged. In 2013 he referenced the then Mayor Duterte while reporting on criminals “riding-in-tandem” (a crime wherein a motorcyclist has control of bike while their accomplice sits behind them wielding a weapon, committing acts such as drive-by shootings). “If you

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want [something like] this solved, you’d have to elect someone like Mayor Duterte” he reported. “If he can take care of a city like Davao – situated in one of the most hostile environments – then he already has an established track record” and could presumably due so on a larger, national scale. In 2015 Andanar had the opportunity to interview Duterte on his personal in broadcasting, when Duterte ran for the presidency in 2016, Andanar decided to help him. He goes on to explain: In the Philippines, these crimes are a part of daily living.

It takes discipline [to do what Duterte does]. Look at a political map, decipher who can solve these problems, anticipate which citizens would not follow the rule of law; with bribery, for example. Or using middle men during government transactions… There was a weak rule of law in our country. In Davao, the law was working for the people. Therefore there must be something in the leader. In the middle of Mindanao, Davao became the most peaceful and progressive. This guy must be doing something right.

Through Duterte’s campaign, Andanar got to know him on a more personal level and became close with his special assistant, Bong Go. Once Duterte secured his political position he offered Andanar a job. Having foreseen Duterte’s potential in leadership, there was now a monumental workload ahead of them in order to make true on all of Duterte’s campaign promises. Andanar was not fazed by the changes needing to be made, and in hindsight touches on what they as a party have done to help Manila – and the Philippines in general – boom once more. In terms of the War on Drugs, crime in the country is down to 5.6%, which is already down from the 7% recorded in June of 2019. 400,000 drug dealers have surrendered themselves to the authorities, resulting in the price of shabu (methamphetamine) shooting up from PHP 2,800/gram to PHP 6,800. Moreover 15,000 barangays (villages) have been declared drug-free. Still, Andanar presses on, stating 17,000 more need to be cleared.

Regarding the country’s economy, 23% of the Philippines’ population was living below poverty level in 2015. Duterte made an oath to bring that number down to 14% during his term. Just a few short weeks ago, that initial 23% was down to 16%. Andanar anticipates that by the end of 2022 – “perhaps even the end of 2020”, he states – Duterte’s 14% can be realized.

He then shifts the topic to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front; how they have joined the government by signing the Bangsamoro Organic Law, which both houses of

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congress agree to enact into law. “Peace and orderwise, we have already delivered. There is a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, showing unparalleled achievements in terms of numbers of rebels surrendering” he explains. “Because we [the government] are aggressive. The strategy is no longer just militaristic. It involves civilians, churches, nonprofits, and businesses giving a helping hand”.

When it comes to infrastructure, anyone who has visited the Philippines is well aware that this is a perpetual issue.

Traffic is always a problem in Metro Manila, but Andanar stresses that the first subway system in the Philippines is already under construction. By the end of Duterte’s term there will supposedly be two or three stations already in operation. Furthermore, the longest bridge connecting Lanao del Norte and Misamis Occidental has also been green-lit; a project that is longer than the existing San Juanico Bridge built during the Marcos era. He also tells of rehabilitating the railway, extending it north to the Clark International Airport in Pampanga, and south beyond Los Baños, Laguna to the Bicol region. He reassures that everything has already been purchased and is underway, drawing from the construction of the newly built New Clark City Athletics Stadium which hosted the recent Southeast Asian Games. After the success of hosting this world class sporting event, the New Clark City Aquatics Center is already slated to host the 2020 Asian Swimming Championships.

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With so much change having occurred in such a short amount of time, Andanar reflects on his proudest achievements. He unearths the “dark times” of journalism in the Philippines, mentioning the Maguindanao Massacre having happened just ten years ago, and how at the time the Philippines was regarded as one of the top five most dangerous countries for journalists. “[Since then] we have instituted policy reforms: Freedom of information, making the government transparent. Security of the media through Administrative Order #1, so the government protects the media. Policies that open the government to scrutiny” he lists. They have also reformed the Philippine Broadcasting Service from a tattered radio network to implementing three new radio stations, and even the People’s Television Network has experienced a great change from old to new. The launch of the first Mindanao Media Hub has expanded government channels; the largest of which was previously in Manila, and now future plans will expand them to Cebu. What is arguably most impressive and significant is the first Government Strategic Communications Academy in Bukidnon, which will teach information officers from the barangays, municipalities, cities, provinces, regions, and within the national government. “Finally we will be operating using a communications paradigm that allows the national and local governments to talk to each other” Andanar exclaims. manilaupmagazine.com

FEATURE We have instituted so many changes in our department.

I just want to focus on finishing and delivering these changes before I leave office. I’ll cross that bridge [of what comes next] when I get there. Work hard, realize these dreams, and fight for the freedom of information to become law instead of just an executive order. We’re continuing to improve the Philippines’ news agencies; PTV, Radyo Pilipinas, the Philippine Information Agency, the National Printing Office, and the newly created Global Media Affairs Office since we don’t have media attach és anymore. The last time the media had press attach és was during the time of President Marcos. Carried by President Aquino but slowly taken away. It’s about the initiatives we have done; I have a competent team that follows through on delivering these promises so that Duterte will have a significant legacy. We keep on working to improve the performance of other agencies. We digitized all of the presidential tapes to facilitate people researching our history.

We are birthing digital archives.

Regardless of how people feel about the candor of President Duterte, he and his cabinet have undoubtedly and drastically changed the lives of the average Filipino during his time in office. Andanar, from his reporting days to his serving ones, always offers his viewpoint, “People have criticized Duterte, but people need to be more informed of what’s happening on the ground.

He has an 80% approval rating for his war on hard drugs, and a 78% satisfaction rating in the Philippines regarding human rights”. While that latter statistic may come across as contradictory to what has been widely portrayed in the news, he counters, “As [human rights] includes universal healthcare, Duterte signed that bill.

Free education for everybody – he signed that law.

Emancipation of the poor people from poverty – he lifted those 5.9 million Filipinos from it. Any world

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leader would be jumping for joy if they had a 78% approval rating. We don’t embellish the news. It’s not difficult, because we don’t have to lie.” He goes on: After Filipinos experience all of the good things happening during the Duterte administration, the people will clamor for more change and continuity for the projects. There is so much pressure for the next president due to the gold standard service Duterte has delivered.

Big companies are paying taxes due to him being so tough. He runs the country with an iron fist. The Filipino people will not allow a weak leader to replace him.

In closing, Andanar simply stated that he wants to thank the public for their continued support. “I want the people to realize that this government works so hard. We’ve cleaned Boracay in just six months.

We’ve ended our war on the Moro Islamic Front, jailed drug lords, the same way the president has fired many corrupt officials. And those who evade taxes should start paying up. We strive to deliver everything we can.

Realize that the president has already delivered on his four promises”. Now, Secretary Martín Andanar would like to invite foreigners to come and visit the Philippines, given his family is no stranger to travel themselves. His twenty year old daughter is studying abroad at Boston University, while his son is sixteen and in eleventh grade. He and his wife, who is an active cabinet spouse, live in Manila. During his downtime – should it ever happen – he tries to go to Surigao to surf (given it is, after all, the surfing capital of the Philippines), or to Mindanao to see his mother’s side of the family. While this entrepreneur by art created News5 Everywhere and the imaging of Radyo Singko, it was Duterte who gave him enough leeway to improve the media. For that, he – and we the people – are thankful. n

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CONNIE QUIRINO PAINTER How does one stand out from a lineup of seven siblings?

Or pave their own path out of an illustrious lineage filled with politicians and artists? What if your older sister is a former pageant titleholder, current pageant director, and your grandfather served as the 6th President of the Philippines for five and a half years? Well if you are Connie Quirino, you do so not in painting by numbers – but by coloring outside the lines.

Connie Quirino is the granddaughter of Philippine President Elpidio Quirino. She is one of seven children to Tomas Quirino and Nena Rastrollo – and is arguably the most artistically-blessed of the bunch. This is not said lightly given her Ate Cory Quirino is an accomplished author and television host.

Maria ( ASL) (48 in x 24in ) Oil on canvas 2019

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With a penchant for drawing ever since the age of seven, it was under the apprenticeship of famous impressionist artist Federico Aguilar Alcuaz (named a “National Artist” following the 2009 National Artist of the Philippines controversy) that her craft was honed and her own personal style began to emerge.

In her youth, the Pidiong would draw portraits of prominent Ilocanos in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, as a means of earning while attending high school. Later in life, even while putting her artist career on hold in order to raise her four sons, her passion for painting never waned.

After all, when one has inherited what can be attributed to a genetic talent, one does not simply give up on their dreams.

Navy Man (30 in x 30 in) oil on canvas 2019

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FEATURE

Amy ( ASL) ( 12 in x 8 in) oil on canvas 2018

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FEATURE

Still life, Wine and Cheese (20 in x 16 in) oil on canvas 2018

Head Study ( Florence ) ( 11 in x 9 in) 2019 Oil on Masonite board

Bouquet of Beautiful Peach Roses in crystal vase (18 in x 18 in) Oil on canvas 2018

Seascape, Sunrise at the beach 24 in x 36 in Oil on canvas

Still life, Yellow and Red coffee cups (8 in x 10 in) oil on linen 2019

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Asian Lady ( ASL) (48 in x 24 in) Oil on canvas 2019

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FEATURE

Betty ( ASL) (30 in x 24 in) Oil on canvas 2018

Two Models ( ASL) (30 in x 24 in) 2019 Oil on canvas

Eventually Connie was able to realize her artistic dreams after joining art workshops both in the Philippines and abroad, ultimately finding a home at L’Arc en Ciel Atelier and Gallery, owned by curator Elaine Herbosa. Here she found success within several group shows, and as such joined the ranks of senior artists.

Still, Connie wanted to expand the scope of her exposure after attending a workshop in Aix-enProvence, France under the tutelage of Jill Steenhuis Ruffato – who mastered Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Cezannes’ impressionist style. This led her to advancing her artistic studies at the Art Students League in Manhattan, New York; a prestigious academy where some of America’s finest visual artists and professors would impart their knowledge and experience onto budding artists.

She was privy to the likes of masters Harvey Dinnerstein, Marybeth Mckenzie, Robin Smith, Dan Gheno, Karen O’ Niel, Sharon Sprung, Gregg Kreutz, and Garin Baker to name a few – all of whom aided in honing her skills in portraiture.

Emerging as one of the country’s most promising portrait artists, Connie Quirino is now known for her sensitive strokes of realism laced with whimsical overtones, displaying her amazing talent on canvas. She is undoubtedly destined to make waves in the local Philippine art scene and beyond, as she prepares for her one-woman show coming in late 2020. n

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“OFFERINGS” PHOTOS BY LORNA LLANES

METRO SCENE

Rustan’s celebrates Filipino art this Christmas season with ‘Offerings’, a collection of mementos and objects for the home honoring the work of Anita Magsaysay Ho.

by Joy FONG 70

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METRO SCENE

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METRO SCENE

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METRO SCENE

After several successful collections of art objects for the home by Filipino artists Ben Cabrera, Al Perez, Paulina Luz Sotto, Fernando Amorsolo and Arturo Luz, Rustan’s is pleased to present ‘Offerings”, a collection of of Anita Magsaysay Ho. The collection includes art that Anita painted on three plates during the period she lived in Tokyo, reproduced in limited edition by Bernardaud. Other pieces in the collection include artwork applied onto beautifully crafted boxes, and drawings embroidered on cushion covers and napkins.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the collection will be donated to the Anita-Magsaysay Ho Foundation which provides scholarships to deserving students and supports organizations promoting art and culture. n

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FEATURE

OFFICIAL GRAMMY GIFT LOUNGE photos by AREZOO JALILI

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This year’s talent were treated to cutting edge beauty, innovative technology, weight management & longevity programs, luxury loungewear, chic eyewear, sweet treats, gifts that give back and much more. The one and only OFFICIAL GRAMMY® GIFT LOUNGE opened during rehearsals before the awarding night held on January 26, 2020. n

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THE CHRISTMAS SEASON: ENTERTAINMENT & STYLE

YOU BET THERE’S NO BETTER!

by JOANNE MATSCHUCK

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ENTERTAINMENT & STYLE

Beneath the hustle of Christmas shoppers and the bustle of holiday travelers, there exists an underlying happiness that spares no one and permeates throughout our home.

There truly is no greater joy than spending time with family and creating new lifelong memories.

My top four reasons for being so infatuated with this festive time of year are: 1) Limitless decorations. Christmas trees, ornaments of varying shapes & sizes, creeping in and out of every crevice of the living room, dining room, atop the table, or garden – the possibilities really are endless! Streaks of red, ribbons of green, bits of gold, and dashes of silver light up every surface.

2) Cooking a feast for the senses. Everything from shopping for the finest ingredients; herbs so fresh you can smell it, aromas so strong you can taste them – to buying the best cuts of meat, juiciest hams, or savory wines to serve… It all culminates in the kitchen, the busiest room in our entire house, where I can truly explore my passion for cooking.

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3) The gathering of friends and the bonding of families. Reunions eliminating distance, company parties, luncheons or dinners, Noche Buena, New Year’s Eve, even the Three Kings had it right!

Bringing the party wherever you go to make the occasion plentiful.

4) ‘Tis the season of gift-giving. Shopping for presents brings me such excitement; I liken it to a mystery – having to figure out what each family member wants and analyze my friends’ needs. While traveling I am continuously hunting for the best deals and affordable prices. I derive more joy from giving than I do receiving. I just want to share what I have.

For me, nothing beats this wonderful time of year. And in an instant – it flashes before your eyes and passes you by before you know it. Every year I grow more thankful, recognizing the blessings that I have. I am grateful for what I have, and thereby do not want to waste any time in the new year. So 2020 will be a year to zero in on what is working, and eliminate the wastes of time. May your goals be as clear and your aim be as focused! n

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Imee Marcos, Margie Floirendo, Tessie Sy-Coson

HAPPY 50TH IN OTHER WORLDS

by BECKY GARCIA 78

THE CCP TURNS HALF A CENTURY OLD! PHOTOS BY LORNA LLANES

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IN OTHER WORLDS

Nick Lizaso, Imee Marcos, Raul Sunico, Mrs Marcos, Margie Floirendo, Irene Araneta

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) celebrated its 50th Anniversary on Wednesday, January 15, 2020. To celebrate this milestone, its Board of Directors feted former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, the founding Chairman who had built it back in 1969 to house the country’s premiere arts and cultural events. The tribute dinner took place in the CCP’s Main Lobby.

The CCP encompassed many firsts; not only was it the first arts structure of its kind in Southeast Asia, but it was also the first built on reclaimed land. Joining CCP Chairman Margarita Moran-Floirendo at the event were its Board of Directors, numerous arts patrons, select business and media personalities, the Marcos family, as well as their esteemed friends.

Dulce & Bernard Cruzata

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IN OTHER WORLDS

Sen. Imee Marcos, Julie Yap Daza

Pides Cuyugan, Danny Dolor

Mandy & Chuchu Eduque

George Sarakinis and Becky Garcia

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IN OTHER WORLDS

Bal Endriga, Nedy Tantoco, Patrick Jacinto

Bongbong Marcos, Irene Araneta, Imee Marcos, Nick Lizaso, Mrs Marcos, Margie Floirendo, Bal Endriga

After the dinner, attendees were treated to a short musical program featuring pianist and former CCP President Raul Sunico. Opting to play ‘Un Sospiro’

by Franz Liszt and ‘Kumintang’ by Fransicso Buencamino, he was later joined by soprano Camille Lopez-Molina who sang the aria titled ‘Vissi d’Arte’ from the opera Tosca by Giacomo Puccini. It was an impressive event that marked its golden milestone and Marcos’ legacy in Philippine architectural history. n

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FEATURE

Agile Zamora, Ofelia Wadle, Shanaya Chandiramani

Renato Reyes, Anton Huang, Agile Zamora, Connie Haw

Tina Cuevas, Duday Tuason, Arnel Patawaran

Happy Ongpauco, Joteen Jimenez.

HERMÈS PARTY PARTY PEOPLE

“IN PURSUIT OF DREAMS”

by AGILE ZAMORA 82

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Renato Reyes, Lucille Locsin, Nini Licaros, Agile Zamora and Ofie Wadle

Connie Haw, Agile Zamora, Czarina Ablaza, Luis Ablaza, Marivic Vasquez and Lilibeth Campos

Alex Vergara, David Lim, Joy Rustia, Helen Ong, Ofie Wadle, Connie Haw, Agile Zamora

The HERMÈS Party, aptly themed “In Pursuits of Dreams”, took place in the Maybank Performing Arts Theater at the BGC Arts Center. Like the events that had preceded it, it was yet another excitement-filled and awe-inspiring Hermès party this past year. I absolutely adored the Hermès printed décor lining the inside; striped walls and glow-in-the-dark accents certainly livened-up the already lively cocktail hour!

Needless to say the evening was filled with fun all night long. Everything from the live band’s music to the

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selection of cocktails & food offerings, to the non-stop flowing champage – I was in love with every bit of it!

Surely, after having attended this one, it solidifies my vow to never miss a Hermès party, thrown each year, because you never know what surprise might be missed out on.

So with that concise and heartfelt endorsement, a hearty congratulation is in order to dear Mario Katigbak and the team, for another year of success. Till we meet again, next year! n

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PROVERBS 31

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SHE

She looks like a precious stone, but her worth exceeds far more than that of rubies. Similarly, she too glows brightly beneath the sun.

But this woman…she is distant. Her heart, once beating warmly, is as cold as snow. She builds walls – walls that are too high, and I cannot even fathom climbing or destroying them.

How can I reach her? Why does this daunting task of loving her seem all too simple and yet too difficult at the same time?

1. She has faced battles. She has experienced war.

She carried baggage for far too long; long before finally learning to let go. She has cried at least a thousand tears. She has survived intense internal damage.

She has learned to bear excruciating pain. She has scars.

And for so long she did not want or need a man to heal her; instead she gave every single broken piece of her heart to God.

2. She has learned how to take her time. Time she loved so much that she was complacent spending it by herself and for herself. She had almost forgotten how it feels to share time with someone who is a stranger to her soul.

She only chooses weighty conversations. She only wants time to be spent on creating and not consuming. She is indeed in love with her time and therefore, she hates wasting it.

3. She is looking for someone who has a genuine heart.

She prays for someone who is pure of heart. Someone who does not just worship at the church on Sundays – but someone who has helped an old man cross the street.

Someone who does not just simply open their bible – but someone who is patient enough not to burst out in anger during long grocery lines. A man who does not just care about how thick his wallet is – but how big his heart is as well. A man who has truly and genuinely accepted Jesus as His personal Lord and saviour.

4. She is mature enough to choose a man who knows how to make a living. She does not settle just because she is tired. A woman like her does not compromise.

She dates to marry; she always looks forward, above and beyond to see is her future is with you. She is thinking about this already. Is this man a good provider?

5. She is whole. She feels complete without anyone reassuring her that she is. People, especially men, see her independence as a threat. But actually it is a gift.

One must first be whole before they pursue a romantic relationship with another.

6. She has met desperate guys and by all means, she will run. This woman is secure in her worth and knows her value. She dislikes an insecure petrified man.

7. She wants to meet a man that is focused. She is pleased to see that you are growing. That you value your personal relationship with the Lord. That you are not just some Christian guy, but a Godly man. There is a big difference.

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8. She is praying for a man whose eyes are fixed on Jesus. Her walls are high, and so are her hopes for meeting a man who also puts God first. A man who lives out of the love of Jesus daily. A man who is after God’s own heart. n

by Jhoanna B. de Guzman manilaupmagazine.com

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FEATURE

WTM April Short

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FEATURE

Mutya Pilipinas one of the longest running beauty pageants in the Philippines established in 1968 a grassroots-based national organization relaunched its brand with a new team headed by its President, Cory Quirino, media celebrity and a veteran in beauty pageantry.

It was a year of success for Team Mutya with all its queens winning and placing in international competitions.

Their roster of 2019 queens were: Klyza Castro, Mutya Pilipinas - Miss Asia Pacific International

Cyrille Payumo, Mutya Pilipinas - 1st Runner Up

Louise Janica Arroyo, Mutya Pilipinas - Overseas Communities

Maxine Rangel, Mutya Pilipinas - 2nd runner Up

April May Short, Mutya Pilipinas - World Top Model Tyra Rae Goldman, Mutya Pilipinas - Miss Tourism International

Kylza Castro finished Top 25 in the Manila-based Miss Asia Pacific International while April May Short made it to Top 12 in the World Top Model Competition in Monte Carlo, Monaco.

MAPI Klyza Castro

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FEATURE MTI Cyrille Payumo

Cyrille Payumo who placed 1st runner up in the local pageant was sent to Miss Tourism International held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Cyrille was crowned Miss Tourism International 2019-2020.

Meanwhile, Tyra Goldman is presently in Hurghada, Egypt to represent the Philippines in the Top Model of the World Competition on January 24.

It is interesting to note that all the Mutya queens are representative of the national scope and reach of Mutya Pilipinas. Castro is from Davao, Payumo from Pampanga, Short from Zamboanga, Rangel from Batangas and An from California for the Overseas Filipino Communities.

The most pleasant of surprises came with the sudden decision to send Cyrille Payumo to the Miss Tourism International pageant.

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FEATURE

WTM April Short

Ms. Payumo’s victory catapulted her to the level of victorious Filipinas who won in international pageants.

Moreover, in 2019 she holds the distinction of having delivered the only international crown to the Philippines.

Ms. Short on the other hand was granted a €10,000.00 scholarship at the World Top Model Academy in Italy.

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It will be noted that Mutya Pilipinas Chairman Fred Yuson mentioned in a recent press conference that he supports a stronger vision and mission for Mutya Pilipinas.

Likewise Ms. Quirino who is upbeat about the future of Mutya Pilipinas in 2020 and beyond. “We intend to grow bigger as a relevant beauty pageant organization from hereon.” n

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