MANILA UP MAGAZINE 2018 Vol 3#5

DUBAI LONDON MANILA LOS ANGELES NEW YORK LAS VEGAS WASHINGTON DC HAWAII FLORIDA THAILAND GERMANY CANADA

VOL. 3

#5

Connect to your culture

INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE

Miss Universe Thailand

An Elegant Italian Event

2018

TRAVEL Siargao, Surigao

LEGENDARY CANADIAN DIRECTOR

GARY HARVEY

Saint James Palace, London Edith Y. Pendleton’s EXCLUSIVE ON

HELSA S. TOOLEY

INTERNATIONAL

MAGAZINE

H

as it occurred to you that as the seasons wear on, time seems to fly at a much higher speed like the sand in an hour glass? The speed by which that sand is funneling through mid-point is not going any faster than when it started, just an illusion of time hastily fleeting by. That being said, here we are in midyear already planning for another anniversary! December is our birth month and it has been years of celebration when it comes around. Our sister media, Manila Up! TV wound up its first season last June. It was a challenging project involving so many aspects of preparation, production and post production having to seamlessly meld into a mix that is whole. For the preliminaries alone, we had to gather hosts from as far away as Australia and within the US, our recipe included hosts from Florida, Missouri and our home base of Los Angeles.

Brewing the formula were ingredients concocted with a dash of ethnicity, a sprinkling of a vast array of topics and a healthy amount of subject matter as diverse as our global community.

The finished product had a distinctive international flavor, a tempting taste of an entertainment dish at its best.

Marc Anthony Nicolas made his mark in his segment titled “Inside Hollywood with Marc”. His interview with Tia Carrere who is part Filipina and the charity events he covered were eye openers. He helped usher in Vivica A. Fox’s new book “ Everyday I’m Hustling”. And apart from other Hollywood “centric” topics, he had Wilson Phillips discuss “Rock the Red Music Benefit Concert” in more depth.

Melody Garcia’s “Melody in Motion” prides itself with a couple of exclusive interviews. One was with the world famous Trent Shelton who boasts over 7 million viewers and followers.

He has had over 7,000 shares on social media. Next was a very rare one-on-one with the owner of Trend Airways, Jon Houdyschell, a not to be missed one it was.

Sonia Dionela Bermejo Publisher/Executive Editor

The beauty queen, Lauren Ziegler, Mrs. United States 2017 hosted her segment, “The confident You” shared her expertise on personal development. Our own Grace Aguilar was abuzz with her segment titled “Metro Scene” busying herself with the mission of covering as many events and conducting interviews with celebrities of every caliber.

Here at last I stand. Proud to be able to experience another path on this journey. Producing a TV show was not anywhere close to publishing a magazine. It’s like comparing mangoes to papayas! However, I must admit, the redeeming value derived from it all is that it adds on to my running resume, filling it and my life with more substance. And this is what Manila Up! International is all about, substance.

Ciao for now, till next. Stay positive.

www.manilaupmagazine.com manilaup@gmail.com @ManilaUp_mag manilaupmagazine

2018 – VOLUME 3 #4

SONIA D. BERMEJO Publisher/Executive Editor

EDITH Y. PENDLETON EDITOR

KATHERINE BERCASIO ART DIRECTOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS BAYERN, GERMANY Secrets of Success SILVIJA POPOVIC

NEW YORK, USA On Call ROMULO AROMIN, JR. MD

Immigration Professor’s Corner ROBERT PERKINS, ESQ

VANCOUVER, CANADA The Disruptors, The Audacity of Truth KAT SCHULTE

Special Section: New York & New Jersey Joy in Tiny Jaunts JANICE LINGAD-THABET

EZWay’s Corner ERIC ZULEY

MANILA, PHILIPPINES In Other Worlds BECKY GARCIA Walk my Way MAYENNE CARMONA Metro Scene JOY FONG Proverbs 31 Woman JHOANNA DE GUZMAN LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM UK na UK ELA HIDALGO Kingdom Adventures GILDA PINEDA DIONELA BANGKOK, THAILAND Siam Living MARICEL DIAZ

MANILA UP! MAGAZINE 3756 W. Avenue 40 #160 Los Angeles, CA 90065 USA

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LAS VEGAS, USA Vegas Vibes ESMERALDA PADILLAGOULD FLORIDA, USA Life’s Journey MELODY GARCIA Mental Wellness JANIE LACY LOS ANGELES, USA Reflections of Hope REV. R.D. QUEMA

Social Media Photographer / Videographer Celia Abuel “PaparazzCel” Columnist/Events/ Correspondent

Talk This Way TIM PARK

Grace Aguilar

Dine Travel in Style GRACE AGUILAR

Photographers:

The Scoop on Real Estate VANESSA KEMPF HAWAII, USA Maui Mania EDITH PENDLETON Island Living RANDY ANTONIO

Beautiful Life MONET LU

DUBAI Living the Good Life Gabriela Miloda

On the Beat FE KOONS

STRASBOURG, FRANCE Anna Marie Mateescu

Email: manilaup@gmail.com Website: http//www.manilaupmagazine.com Follow us: FB, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, Issuu

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Jophel Huffman Tony Garcia Auspicio Yan Phillip Ner Jon Bermejo Rajesh Shah Daniel Pham Fashion Photographer Joe Garcia Website Designer Allan Mark Paanio

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

ISBN 231-256-2-16

Edith Y. Pendleton Editor

The august month of August explores the The term august lends an air of majesty, aristocratic in history of St. its aura. Though I am not about to speculate on whether or James palace not it has anything to do with the month of August, the mere while we coincidence that it was named after the Roman Emperor, take another Augustus suits me fine. To rise to the level of the high and vicarious journey with a writer who transports us to the mighty, the myriad paths those who achieved such status have southernmost part of the Philippines. Luchille Mamon takes parallels in the making. Fairy tales aside, we do have our own us on a tour of Siargao in Surigao province. One of our Cinderellas, true to life that is. Think Meghan Markle and popularly emerging columns is "Disruptor" by Kat Schulte. then some. Here on our cover is a lady of fine means, Helsa She digs around to find them, they who 'disrupt' society, not Tooley. In her own writing she shares her story, as written to create chaos, rather these folks shake us up in ways that straight from the heart. It is quite interesting to note that she enhance our lives by showing us alternative approaches to and Meghan have some similarities in their paths towards both thinking and realizing what otherwise would remain where they are and who they have become given their dormant or stagnant within. "Shaken, not stirred" as the relatively humble origins. Read on and find out how her own figure of speech goes, says it all.

Prince Charming came to be.

Our society writer and diva in her own right, Becky Philippine Airlines, our super dynamic national pride has Garcia, dishes out the latest from her 'other' world, "In Other both a new logo and a new face in Los Angeles in the person Worlds". How august can it get with all the awesomeness of of Michelle Narvaez, who, with both perseverance and vision this issue's range of coverage? Well, turn the page and you'll came to her new post in Los Angeles through the ranks. Miss most likely concur. When the "ber" months come in we Universe Thailand joins in with her unexpected win, she of can look back to August for its august place in the Roman a quiet demeanor who succeeded in making it because 'less calendar, it's the marker to begin our second half of the year is more'. In an exclusive interview with our correspondent (already???). Â Maricel Diaz, she reveals some of her introspective side.

Humbling as it is, we at Manila Up! International openly embrace all who have mustered mastery over life despite or in spite of odds stacked up against them. Their Follow us on: tenacity of character is revealed further www.actvus.com /Las Vegas ch 30.6 in our pages as our image of exclusivity is INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE 12:00-12:30 Saturdays/ACTV-05 apps watered down to the reality of inclusiveness for worldwide 3756 W. Avenue 40 #160 in order to come up with balanced www.kxla.com /Los Angeles ch 44, Los Angeles, CA 90065 journalism.

19, 34 (check listings Spectrum/Dish/ USA The international scene is covered within DirectTV manilaup@gmail.com the Metro Manila scene courtesy of Joy Website: http://mutv.manilaupmagazine Fong who regales us with the Italian event FB: Manila Up TV – mutv Entertainment manilaupmagazine.com he covered along with "Bagyo ng Musika" follow us on which took the scene by musical storm.

FB, Twitter, Instagram,Tumblr, Issuu And finally, the well publicized Cuneta-Ang nuptials. London is calling too, Gilda Pineda

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Vol. 3 No.5

inside

INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE

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HELSA S. TOOLEY I live in Sydney, Australia but lately I have been spending more time in Manila. Sydney is a beautiful city, peaceful, orderly and clean. We get a pretty good slice of life there and I like the four seasons of Australia.

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It’s Alright to be Less, to make Jesus Great (Saint James Palace London) It is wonderful to take a walk in London. It’s as if you are walking on a Biblical lane. I know nothing beats walking in Israel, Turkey, Greece, Syria, Iraq, Iran among other places mentioned in the bible too. But why would I go there when I have not exhausted myself reading the Bible through the landmarks of London?

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Leave a Mystery In this day and age where everyone gets to be a public figure, more and more people are getting accustomed to live in such a way that is focused on pleasing others, looking good on someone else’s eyes and being liked for who others want them to be and not who they wanted to become.

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Bagyo ng Musika A successful fund raising dinner concert of singing group Ginoo, with Former Press Secretary Mike Toledo, Atty. Salvador Panelo and Manila Hotel President Joey Lina, banded together to help those afflicted by war in Marawi and natural calamities.

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A LOOK THROUGH THE LENS OF LEGENDARY CANADIAN DIRECTOR GARY HARVEY He believes in the medium of storytelling to help shift perspectives in a way that can better our world and our individual lives. “Film is a powerful medium that has the power to entertain as well as teach.”

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Miss Universe Thailand 2018 40 lovely, young and smart ladies from all over the country participated this year’s search for the most confidently beautiful in Thailand and vied to be the next Miss Universe Thailand. This year’s winner is Maria Poonlertlarp’s successor. Maria, who competed last year in the Miss Universe pageant finished as one of the Top 5 winners.

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www. IndiaAssociationLA.org or call us at 818-600-1495

www. IndiaAssociationLA.org or call us at 818-600-1495

IALA Board of Directors Vinod Manchhani, Chairman

Raman Chadha

IALA Board Inder Singh of DirectorsKumar Jawa Vineet Puri

Vinod Manchhani,Ranjit Chairman Joea

Sam Sidhu

Raman Chadha Bob Bawa

Manmohan Chopra

Secretary

Aishveryaa Nidhi

Treasurer

Raj Thakkar

President VP Publicity

Suresh “Bobby” Sharma

Sam SidhuMukhtiar Kamboj

Treasurer Executive Member

Ouseph Poulouse

Bob Bawa

VP Executive PublicityMember

Ravi Grewal

VP Public Relations Nalini Natarajan

Ranjit Joea Satish Tomar

Secretary

V.P. Finance

Kanaksinh Zala

Manmohan ChopraVP CulturalExec ViceKavita President Affairs Puri

Vineet Puri

Jagdish Khangura

Sunil Agrawal

Ramesh Brahmarouthu

Inder Singh

Ravi Grewal

Exec Vice President

IALA 2017 Executive Committee Joint Secretary Manjeet Wahi

Satish Tomar Iqbal Samra

Kumar Jawa

IALA 2017 Executive Committee President

VP Public Relations Nalini Natarajan

Robin Paik

VP Health

Aishveryaa Nidhi

VP Youth Affairs

Dr. Bama Sridhar

Raj Thakkar

VP Health

Deepi Singh

Sunil Prabhakar

Executive Member

Executive Member

Joint Secretary

Manjeet Wahi

V.P. Finance Pramesh Shah Kanaksinh Zala

Prem Seem

Executive Member Hema Chopra Ramesh Brahmarouthu VP Cultural Affairs

Yashpal Sharma

Sunil Agrawal

VP Youth Affairs

Kavita Puri Robin Paik

COVER STORY

HELSA S.

TOOLEY

Woman Becomes Her

BY EDITH Y. PENDLETON AUSTRALIA

T

he fifth of nine children, I was born in Manila. My father placed first in the board exams in Civil Engineering at the University of the Philippines.

He was formerly with the Department of Public Works and Highways and was a professor in the college of engineering in one of the universities in Manila. He was also appointed Port Manager of Poro Point in San Fernando, La Union. My mother was born in La Union, was a teacher and later became a licensed real estate broker.

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COVER STORY

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From elementary to high school I grew up under strict Spanish nuns who instilled in us moral values and discipline. At school I learned to play the piano. I also took ballet lessons and was chosen to play the role of Snow White during one school celebration. I finished with a college degree at the University of Sto. Tomas.

When I was young I believed in Santa Claus and one month before Christmas me and my sisters used to write to Santa and we got very excited when Santa left our gifts under the Christmas tree.

As a teenager I actually wanted to be a flight stewardess and instead ended up working as a bank teller in a commercial bank which eventually was bought by Bank of the Philippine Islands.

I became a part of BPI for a while before I got married overseas.

This is not the first time I am featured as the cover for a magazine coming out as the cover girl for Graphic Magazine. I was a first runner-up for Miss Manila Red Cross when I was in my 20’s.

I live in Sydney, Australia but lately I have been spending more time in Manila. Sydney is a beautiful city, peaceful, orderly and clean. We get a pretty good slice of life there and I like the four seasons of Australia.

I met my now late husband in Sydney while I was on vacation and went home to Manila.

I thought we would not see each other again but after a month he followed me and asked my parents for my hand in marriage. It was a whirlwind romance. It took only 3 months and we got married in Sydney. We have a big age difference but I didn’t feel it. He was fun to be with and always made me laugh.

My husband’s parents were born in England but he settled and did business in Australia. He owned Business Colleges in almost all the major cities of Australia so we travelled from one state to another working and looking after the business.

There was a time when we stayed only 3 months in Sydney within a year. When my husband died of prostate cancer, I did not get myself involved in the business anymore.

Sometimes we attended horse racing events.

He had a few race horses running at some time, it’s where one can see men and women wear their fineries complete with a hat. I was the only Asian in the Member’s stand then but nowadays it’s different as more have become involved in the races.

He was my life in Australia. I have no kids and relatives there. All my attention focused upon him so we were very close. He didn’t like women with very strong characters, which was the cause of his failed marriages.

Looking back I’m grateful for what he taught me, especially how to eat healthy food. No cakes or butter were allowed in the house. He introduced me to goat’s milk and cheese, brown rice and raw vegetables.

My stepson who was only 14 years of age when we got married and complained that I invaded his territory. I redecorated the house and his Dad was quick to defend me. He told him that what’s good with Helsa is that she can adapt to their lifestyle.

He said that I eat the food they eat and never complained. The secret of our good relationship was that whatever he told me to do, I just did it. I still believe that man is superior to a woman. I’m still old fashioned in some ways although you may see me as very modern in my way of dressing.

I’m a very private person. I don’t really like the idea of exposing my life, but I have to give bits and pieces about myself for this magazine.

HELSA’S FAMOUS WORDS: • For the younger readers, educate yourself, dream big, will it to happen and work hard to attain your goals.

• For the rest, learn to love yourself first – take care of yourself to keep fit, healthy and happy. Because when one has good health and a happy attitude, we’re able to emanate these energies to others around us and in the process, pass the love on to everyone. (You can’t do these when you are sick and sad).

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COVER STORY

I intend to live my life one day at a time and have a relaxing, comfortable life while sharing my blessings with the people around me. I pray to God daily, live an honest life and travel to learn about other cultures and enjoy the sights of other countries. In Sydney, I go to the city and feel the rush of the business district with its towering office buildings. There are days we simply ride in a ferry and just enjoy breathtaking views of the Sydney harbor. When in Manila, and on some weekends I have a dinner with my nephew, Gerry Santos, a successful production designer of Philippine movie films and television film series.

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I love travelling, fashion, dancing, rock and roll, listening to old songs and meditate everyday. I like watching movies in a big screen (movie-houses) and have a passion for antiques.

I see myself happy and grateful for what I have become and for the life I’m enjoying now.

I’ll set up more goals to achieve and work towards becoming more active and healthy.

To love, to be optimistic in life, and travel to see the world are utmost for the fulfillment of my desires. Given the opportunity, I like to experience living in Europe even just for 6 months or a year.

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PAL COO & President Jaime J. Bautista

ROTARY CLUB Hall of Fame

PAL, COO,President Jaime J Bautista, receives an award

P

hilippine Airlines President Jaime J. Bautista (3rd from left) receives the Tourism Hall of Fame Award from the Rotary Club of Manila for his long-standing contribution to tourism promotions as prime mover of PAL’s efforts to pioneer tourism markets all over the world. Presenting the award, from left, are Rotarian Farid Schoucair (General Manager of New World Makati Hotel), Rotarian Bobby Joseph (Chairman of Rotary Club of Manila Tourism Award Committee) and President Jimmie Policarpio of Rotary Club Manila. manilaupmagazine.com

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METRO SCENE BY JOY FONG

An Elegant

Italian Event

Cutting the ribbon by Cong. Imelda Marcos

MANILA

I METRO SCENE

By Joy Fong

Photos by Lorna Llanes

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t is with great inspiring moment for Mr. Marco Roberto Ascione and his partner Ms. Olah Gray Brady to celebrate his Birthday and at the same time opening of Sogni Di Vetro Murano Showroom in Okada Manila.

It was attended by several special guests; Cong. Imelda Romualdez Marcos, Madame Takako Okada, former Gov. Luis Chavit Singson, Thai Socialite Khung Susie and the Italian Ambassador Giorgio Guglielmino, The Night started with an inspiring double birthday celebration of a painter and poet from Venice, Italy, Mr. Marco Roberto Ascione and Socialite Ms. Becky Garcia at a sit-down dinner party at La Piazza the majestic Italian Restaurant in Okada.

To Marco, congratulations and good luck for more success of the Murano shop.

Email joyfong@rocketmail.com • Photos Lorna LLanes manilaupmagazine.com

Jinky Rebano Lulu Bueno, Joanne Matschuck, Tina Jacinto, Merci Padolina, Joy Rustia

Marco Roberto Ascione and Becky Garcia, birthday celebrants

Joel Cruz, Noel Gonzales, Atty. Ronald Pasamba, Melissa Eid

Melissa Eid, Atty.Ronald Pasamba, Robert Miller, Ito Curata, Noel Gonzalesn

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METRO SCENE BY JOY FONG

Gov. Chavit Singson, Fortune Ledesma, Cory Quirino, Ching & Philip Cruz

Maurice Lim, Susie Theerathada, Becky Garcia, Cong. Imelda Marcos, Marco Roberto Ascione, Ola Gray Brady

H.E. Rolando Guevarra Alvarado, Tessa Prieto Valdez

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SPECIAL FEATURE

New planes to boost

PAL’s Davao, Cebu, Clark hubs Route buildup is strategic goal as PAL aims for 5-Star global rating

P

hilippine Airlines (PAL) will further boost its operations at its hubs in Davao, Cebu and Clark, with the scheduled arrival of 15 new aircraft within 2018, and another six (6) aircraft

in 2019.

Now an internationally-certified 4-Star airline, PAL announced a multi-hub expansion strategy that aims to improve domestic and international connections, while spreading the benefits of tourism and commercial activity to the various regions in Mindanao, the Visayas and Luzon.

New routes and hikes in flight frequencies are being introduced as the flag carrier accepts delivery of five (5) additional Next-Generation Bombardier Q400s and six (6) new Airbus A321neos starting in May 2018, along with four Airbus A350-900 trans-oceanic aircraft starting in June 2018.

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“We are no longer just a Manila-centric airline,” said PAL President & and Chief Operating Officer Dr. Jaime J. Bautista. “Our new aircraft and our new hubs are a winning combination that will help expand our market reach both domestically and worldwide. This is imperative for a global airline, and we must sustain and build on our hard-won 4-Star rating.”

PAL’s 2018 expansion includes the following new routes:

• Davao-Surigao, starting with four weekly flights from last March 25 • Manila non-stop to New York (John F. Kennedy Airport) from October 28 • Manila non-stop to New Delhi and Mumbai (Bombay) in India by last quarter of 2018 • Manila to Sapporo (Chitose) in Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, by last quarter of 2018

The new routes to India are PAL’s response to the call of DOT Secretary Wanda Corazon Teo for a direct link to India, a potentially rich producer of future tourist visitors to the Philippines.

PAL is also assessing the request of DOT Secretary Teo to launch international routes directly from Davao International Airport, possibly to Bangkok or a point in Japan. The DOT Secretary, a Davao resident, has long championed Mindanao as a prime destination for eco-tourism, adventure and cultural tourism experiences.

The following PAL routes are seeing increased frequencies:

• Cebu-Siargao, launched only last December, will go twice daily by the end of April • Davao-Tagbilaran increased from four times weekly to daily since March 25 • Davao-Clark to ramp up to daily later in 2018 • Cebu-Bangkok increased by 133% from thrice weekly to daily since March 25 • Cagayan de Oro to Clark, to go daily later this year • Cebu-Busuanga (Coron), from twice to three daily flights

by April 26 • Clark-Busuanga (Coron), from four (4) to five (5) daily flights by April 26 • Cebu-Clark, from seven (7) to ten (10) weekly flights by April 28 • Upgrade to Widebody A330 or A340 aircraft on more

selected Manila-Cebu and Manila-Davao flights.

• Additional frequencies between Manila and Dumaguete, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Cebu, Puerto Princesa and Bacolod, starting in April/May.

International connectivity is also improved as PAL offers convenient connections in Cebu for passengers flying from Davao to Tokyo Narita, Beijing, Seoul and Bangkok. There are also timely connections in Manila to destinations in Europe (London), the USA, Australia, Japan, the Middle East, China and various Asian countries.

Since late 2017, Davao and Cebu are just one stopover away from Toronto and Auckland for the first time, and the same is now true for Brisbane (since March 28) and later this year for New York, India and Hokkaido. This is the result of PAL’s decision to eliminate stopovers and go nonstop on more and more international routes.

Some of the frequency increases, particularly from Manila, are designed to compensate for the impending closure of Boracay and to offer vacation travelers alternative holiday destinations.

PAL is presently working with local and foreign government authorities for the green light to operate new or additional tourist-carrying flights from China, Korea and Taiwan to Puerto Princesa and Cebu, in light of the suspension of many flights from these countries to Kalibo.

The additional China-Cebu and Korea-Cebu flights are intended to feed more tourism, travel to Camiguin, Siargao, Coron, Bohol and likewise to Butuan, rather than exclusively to Cebu. This is one positive multiplier effect of a thriving PAL hub network centered on Cebu Mactan.

PAL currently flies to 16 domestic and seven international points from Cebu, 14 domestic and one international point from Clark, six domestic points from Davao, and one international destination (Seoul, Korea) from Tagbilaran.

Comprehensive marketing and sales studies are ongoing for the introduction of new destinations in Europe and the US mainland, including Chicago and Seattle.

Aircraft expected to join the PAL fleet in 2019 include two (2) more Next-Generation Q400s, two (2) more A350s and two (2) more A321neos.

“Our current fleet of 85 aircraft is already

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the largest in the Philippines,” confirmed PAL President Bautista. “We are aiming for 100 aircraft by 2020, which places us in the category of a major carrier. But we are not merely adding more planes, we are constantly upgrading the cabins, seats, amenities, inflight entertainment and technology.

We aspire to ultimately become a 5-Star Global Airline, to be a source of pride for all Filipinos.”

The PAL fleet buildup will continue until the year 2024, providing valuable support to the airline’s ascent to the ultimate goal of 5-Star rating

by Skytrax, the global airline rating organization.

In February 2018, PAL was certified a 4-Star Global Airline after instituting various innovations

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and expanding its fleet and route network over a two-year period. At the core of PAL’s aggressive transformation was highly focused attention on satisfying passengers at all points of travel, anchored on the Buong Pusong Alaga service philosophy extended by a committed and dedicated workforce.

The Skytrax 4-Star certification was a thirdparty affirmation of PAL’s successful reassertion of its stature as a leading world-class airline.

PAL is the country’s first and only 4-Star airline, joining 42 other carriers – such as British Airways, Emirates, KLM, Japan Airlines, Qantas, Thai, etc. – also rated 4-Star. s.

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KINGDOM ADVENTURES BY GILDA PINEDA DIONELA

It’s Alright to be Less, to make

Jesus Great (Saint James Palace London)

I

ENGLAND

t is wonderful to take a walk in London.

It’s as if you are walking on a Biblical lane.

I know nothing beats walking in Israel, Turkey, Greece, Syria, Iraq, Iran among other places mentioned in the bible too. But why would I go there when I have not exhausted myself reading the Bible through the landmarks of London? I would like to take you to Saint James Palace. It is in Central London not far from Buckingham Palace. It is the oldest palace in the United Kingdom. Kings and queens of England used to live here for more than 300 years.

It is situated on the former site of a medieval hospital for leprous women. A religious foundation dedicated to Saint James, The Less. Henry VIII acquired the hospital and its grounds in 15311536 and turned the former hospital into a palace.

Today, the State Apartments of Saint James Palace are sometimes used for entertaining incoming State visitors and is home to several members of the Royal Family. Prince George was christened here in 2013.

KINGDOM ADVENTURE

By Gilda Pineda Dionela

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Image from Wikimedia Commons

The Three Biblical James Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. Proverbs 22:28 KJV. This is one attribute of the United Kingdom that I admire so much. Though thousands of years have passed, the landmarks their forefathers had set up are respected and remain intact up to the present. In the Philippines, there are some politicians who keep changing the names of landmarks to serve their own purposes. I wonder if it is a display of inferiority complex or narcissistic complex. It is not practical and not biblical at all. Maybe another hindrance for our continuous growth.

I wondered who noticed to whom the hospital and the palace were named after.

Saint James, The Less. Who is he?

Modern Christianity emphasized much about the contribution of Peter, Paul, John, Abraham, David, Joseph and Daniel. Maybe there are some who are tired of hearing about Paul and Peter that they even criticized these two hall of famers 22

of faith in a negative way. I am glad that there are the free media repository some who From give Wikimedia credit toCommons lesser biblical characters whom I believe that in the eyes of our Lord Jesus Christ, are of equal rank to famous hall of famers being mentioned and preached about so often. Now I am saying this not to appear smart but to highlight the spiritual history and biblical virtuosity of Londoners. They named the most senior palace for Saint James, The Less. The New Testament mentioned about three persons named James with appropriate distinction as; The Less, The Great and The Just (also called the righteous).

The first two James are the original Apostles chosen and sent by Jesus Christ and the third one is the half-brother of Jesus Christ. Let us know a little bit about them one by one.

James, The Less James the son of Alphaeus and Mary (sister of Mary the mother of Jesus Christ our Lord).

That made him a cousin and apostle of Jesus.

He preached, he healed and cast out demons like

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KINGDOM ADVENTURES BY GILDA PINEDA DIONELA

any other apostle. He is called James, the Less not to belittle his importance in the ministry of Jesus but to denote younger or smaller in size than the other apostle named James the Great. “And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing everywhere. Luke 9:6 (KJV)”. When the twelve disciples were sent to preach and heal the sick, they reported to Jesus what they did. It means all of them including James, the Less. It didn’t say all the eleven did what Jesus sent them for except James the Less.

In effect he did great as the others did. It is a great encouragement to everyone. If you share your faith about Jesus it follows that the sick will get healed wherever you are. You don’t have to stand in a huge stage and preach. Just do it and you will have it done even on the streets.

and said, “For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them”.

That is the intention of Jesus Christ coming to earth, to save humanity. There is hope for the arrogant and hot headed here and there, if we are willing to subject ourselves to the Lordship of Jesus. We can do great things just like what brothers James and John did.

James, the Just Jesus had earthly siblings; James, Joseph, Jude, Simon and unnamed sisters. Virgin Mary was a virgin when she gave birth to Jesus Christ no question about that. But she never was a perpetual

James, The Great James and John are brothers, both sons of Zebedee and Salome (sister of Mary the mother of Jesus). That makes them cousins of Jesus just like James, the Less. Both descendants of a priestly family, they were fishermen like Peter. James, John and Peter were Jesus’ closest friends and disciples.

They were privileged to see the deity of Jesus on the mount of transfiguration. They saw Jesus’ face which shone like the sun and his clothes become white as the light. They were surnamed Boarneges which means The Sons of the thunder. Their behaviour at the beginning of their ministry when Jesus was not received in the village of Samaria, showed arrogance that they asked Jesus if He wanted them to command fire to come down from heaven and consume those who did not receive Him. They were so full of confidence to say that because Jesus was standing next to them. But we all know that during crucifixion they left Him to die on the cross (except John). In this outburst, Jesus rebuked them manilaupmagazine.com

Image from www.zimbio.com

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virgin because after she gave birth to Jesus, she and Joseph lived a normal married life and out of that relationship children were born, all named above.

Yes, Jesus had earthly cousins at the same time he had earthly siblings through Mary. Even if she was not a perpetual virgin it doesn’t change the fact that she is still “Blessed among women” because from her womb Jesus came out. It is out there 21 st century folks, in different bible translations, the internet, on YouTube and ancient literature available in public domain. Help yourself to receive the truth and reject falsehood.

How does it feel to have a perfect, righteous brother in the family? I could imagine that Jesus was the favourite of Joseph and Mary.

Obedient, responsible, washing the dishes without murmuring. Cooking food if Mary was sick, helping Joseph cut wood and so on. I could only imagine some bad days for Mary and Joseph nagging to their other children and saying, “Why couldn’t you be just like your brother Jesus?” I believe that family setting and scenario could be 24

the reasons his siblings didn’t believe him when he preached. They even provoked him and called him mad for what he was saying. They couldn’t believe that their brother who was doing ordinary household chores in his humanity was truly the Son of God. Familiarity breeds contempt. That is why the original disciples of Jesus were all Galileans except Judas, but, none of them was his earthly brother. Everything changed after Jesus’s resurrection. He showed Himself to His skeptical brother James. And from that day on James became a humble follower. The first Senior Pastor of the first Christian Church in Jerusalem while the apostles were sent to preach the gospels to the end of the world. A church that promotes equality and unity, that the rich should not be treated as VIP’s but equal to the poor brethren.

It is another proof of how former Londoners knew their bible well, that honoured Saint James called the Less through the oldest Palace in one of the oldest monarchies in the World.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

MICHELLE NARVAEZ Philippipine Airlines

Los Angeles, Area Manager

BY EDITH Y. PENDLETON

EP: Your full name?

MN: Michelle Frances Maldia Narvaez.

EP: Status?

MN: Single EP: Job Title?

MN: Philippine Airlines Area Manager – Los Angeles district.

EP: Any background information you may wish to share, including place of birth, parents, siblings ?

MN: Born in Manila, Philippines.

EP: Education ?

MN: Graduated from De La Salle University, Manila.

EP: Career history ?

MN: Been with Philippine Airlines for 28 years, started as an office clerk, and worked my way up to current position. Most of my career was spent in Manila until I was assigned to handle our Vietnam office, then took over Australia, set up our office in New York and now here in Los Angeles.

EP: How you got to where you are in PAL? MN:Home grown. First job since graduating from university. Went up the ranks, starting from being a clerk, ticket representative, rate desk representative, sales representative, product manager, district sales manager and now area manager based here in LA. EP: Your thoughts about your recent promotion?

MN: Being assigned in our LA office is the biggest challenge so far. The responsibility involved is huge. The United States is a major market for PAL and LA alone has 14 flights a week to Manila.

EP: What are your plans for the company?

MN: The company is expanding and improving our products. New York will start flying nonstop by late October this year. We will be the only airline that will fly nonstop from New York to the Philippines. The company is also looking at expanding in the US. It can be another point to fly from or maybe an additional frequency. It is still being studied and decided on.

EP: What incentives can you offer Filipinos and others in your niche

Michelle Frances Maldia Narvaez

market in order to increase passenger volumes and revenues?

MN: We are currently offering the summer seat sale which has been extended for sale until June 24, 2018. Our all in fare Los Angeles to Manila round trip economy is as low as $679. Travel period is from 16 July to 10 December 2018 with a maximum stay of 1 month in Manila.

Aside from this, we offer remarkably low fares both on business class and economy class for beyond Manila (Los Angeles via Manila to Bangkok or Hong Kong or any Asian destination that we fly to).

EP: Your short/medium/long term goals for both your professional and personal lives.

MN: I still see myself staying with the company, maybe until I retire. Now the decision as to whether I stay in LA or go back to the Philippines is the company’s discretion. As an obedient soldier, I will go where I am needed.

EP: Parting shots or words you wish to impart to our readers.

MN: First of all, we would like to say thank you to the Filipinos in America. Thank you for the support you have been giving us all these years. And we’d like to ask for your continued patronage for the years to come. “ Ang Philippine Airlines ay nandito para sainyo at nagsisilbi para sa inyo ng buong pusong alaga. Tangkilikin natin ang sariling atin at mabuhay ang Filipino!”.

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THE DISRUPTORS – THE AUDACITY OF TRUTH KAT SCHULTE

Be A Disruptor In Every Industry:

A LOOK THROUGH THE LENS OF LEGENDARY

CANADIAN DIRECTOR GARY HARVEY

G

ary Harvey is a well known Canadian film Director. He has worked on over 400 episodes of various television series and numerous films.

He believes in the medium of storytelling to help shift perspectives in a way that can better our world and our individual lives. “Film is a powerful medium that has the power to entertain as well as teach.”

Four years ago Gary was diagnosed with cancer and underwent extensive surgery. “I lost my tongue. I have re-trained myself to talk and forced myself back into work. In a job where my communication is my main tool, I’ve been challenged to re-think how I do what I do.”

Throughout that journey he had amazing people in his corner. Along with his family there was Peter Mitchell, the showrunner for Murdoch Mysteries. “Within a day of my surgery, he vowed he’d have my back, and he did without hesitation.”

His friend believed in him and he attributes this belief to giving him the confidence to get back into the workforce and do what he loves. He also believes that this beautiful act gave other people the confidence to also get into his corner and have his back. With a surgery that so challenges people’s way of thinking. To throw people into the unknown and asking questions like “will his work be the same?” “How am I going to react?” “Will he be able to do his job at the same caliber?”

It’s people like Peter, together with Gary that smash through limiting perceptions, and make being uncomfortable THE DISRUPTORS – something that is THE AUDACITY OF TRUTH

By Kat Schulte manageable.

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The industry would be a little less bright without Gary in it, he is constantly challenging his actors to be better. “I push people to be their best and I am not willing to accept complacency.”

He is a Disruptor in his own right because he doesn’t limit himself in what he does. His cancer and surgery has definitely changed a lot of his own perceptions and he attributes one of the single most challenging experiences he has ever experienced, to him being a better person. A more present person. “I have become a person I cannot imagine I would have ever become were it not for these life trials. With the perspective I now have, it has allowed me to be more present than I have ever been. It has made me, almost without exception, better. I now know that the present is all that matters as it relates to my life and my interactions with others.”

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Gary is also a father, his children have grown up in the film and TV industry, and are now active members of that community. He talks about his children (who are now adults) with a lot of love and fondness. “I can honestly say that my kids have made me a better human and a better filmmaker.

They help me see the world differently, and I have learned so much about myself through their eyes.

They both went into the industry with their eyes open, and I am proud because they both made their way in this industry on their own merit.

Although I would have helped give them a leg up, neither have required it. In some cases they have gone almost entire shows without anyone ever making the connection.

That makes me a proud Papa.”

Gary sees the industry changing a lot, and the potential for a lot more creativity without constraint. The culture of the work week in the industry is challenging, limiting and exhausting.

There is a lot of creativity being unnecessarily sacrificed because the weight of financial limitations dictates what’s possible. This weight is also not generally conducive to achieving optimal results in productions, and everyone suffers as a result.

There is so much potential with the ability to shoot things more accessibly, more affordably, and those funds could be better used. There is also a lot more pressure being put on other already taxed departments because the lack of proper training and sometimes utter disillusionment of needing an experienced director. “In what other business

would anyone make an inexperienced manager responsible to determine how 4 to 8 million dollars are spent over the course of three weeks? Working with people who are inexperienced is costly and we can support our up and coming directors by using those funds to have them trained properly with hands on experience.”

Gary also loves exploring other creative mediums such as digital photography and has been enjoying playing around with an Instagram account with a narrative of love, philosophy, heartache and general musings about life. He is an advocate for action towards a better world, especially when it comes to climate change. He is not interested in the blame game that so many people can get caught up in. He is an advocate for action, and taking tangible steps and solutions and moving forward.

As far as media, I loved his advice that he wanted to give when it came to talking to kids and educating them about bias in the media. “All media has bias, so learn to be a critical thinker.

Teach your kids to be critical thinkers. Have them understand the context of the media that they are consuming and more importantly, work towards uncovering the bias before they commit to a perspective.”

And lastly, Gary’s beautiful, simple and elegant advice to young artists. “If you are a filmmaker, make films. If you are a writer, write. If you are an actor, act. You will be better at it by doing more of it.” He also believes that when it comes to the film and television industry, experience is better than spending years in a specialized school. So use your 30K or 40K and make films, make mistakes, and learn. He also talked to me about building your tribe, your community, and surrounding yourself with people that are as passionate about it as you are.

Finally, from his heart to yours, “None of these careers are a solo effort. Be a decent human being and honour the effort of those around you, especially if you are in charge. Those you honour will make you better when they are also vested in the outcome.”

Check out Gary’s work: www.gharv.com Instagram: @gharv

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METRO SCENE BY JOY FONG

BAGYO NG

Musika

Cong. Imee Marcos, Sec. Salvador ‘Sal’ Panelo

A

MANILA HOTEL, MANILA

Ding Borja, Tony Boy Floreido, Pres. Glora Macapagal Arroyo

successful fund raising dinner concert of singing group Ginoo, with Former Press Secretary Mike Toledo, Atty. Salvador Panelo and Manila Hotel President Joey Lina, banded together to help those afflicted by war in Marawi and natural calamities.

The “Three Lawyers” come together for a special fundraising dinner concert entitled “Bagyo ng Musika” held at the Fiesta Pavillon of Manila Hotel with the rhythm ensemble of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, led by Maestro Rodel Colmenar, provided the musical accompaniment while former West End performer Jenine Desiderio was the special guest singer. The guest of honor was President Rodrigo Duterte. Congratulation for the success of Bagyo ng Musika concert.

Email: joyfong@rocketmail.com • Photo Lorna LLanes

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Atty. Mike Toledo, Mayor Henry Villarica

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Ruffa Gutierrez, Princess Violago

Cathy Binag, Agnes Huibonhoa, Ching Cruz, Nini Licaros

Vice Mayor Jeannie Sandoval (Malabon) Dra. Araceli Panelo, Arch. Ramon Licup

Imelda & Eileen Papin

Yamani Caliwara, Reggie Panganiban, Maricar Go, Ruby Chua, Minnellii Marie Tio, Vanessa Janiffer Go

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METRO SCENE BY JOY FONG

Cris Badiola, Bob Miller

Ding Borja, Tony Boy Floriedo, Anabelle Rama

Felix & Grace Ang

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Andrew & Cathy Tan, Deedee Sytangco, George Yang

Dra. Araceli Panelo, Ching Cruz, Susie Teenathada, Philip Cruz

Frank & Letty Tan, Ed Cabangon, William Gatchalian

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Gina Mohnani, Len Olbes, Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Mayene Carmona

Jenine Desiderio, Atty. Mike Toledo, Sec. Sal Panelo, Atty. Joey Lina

Philip & Ching Cruz

Offie & Cong. Arlene Arcillas

Archie & Judith Tan

Millet Mananquil, Tina Cuevas, Gina Yap

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TRAVEL BYÂ LUCHILE MAMON

Siargao,

Surigao

Siargao, a tear-drop shaped island is the surfing capital of the Philippines. It boasts the best waves all year-round that attracts surfers from all over the world. Cloud 9, is the most famous surf break on Siargao and the island hosts the ‘Cloud 9 Surfing Cup, an official WSL Pro event every September. The island is not for surfers alone, it offers so much more beyond surfing.

By Luchile Mamon

all sand bar Naked Island, Siargao (sm ) sea in the middle of the

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T

he island is entirely covered with palm trees, and beautiful white sand beaches, enchanting lagoons, caves, sand bars, mangrove, and so much more natural attractions to explore especially for those who does not surf at all. The island has a it’s simple beauty.

Go island hopping and see Siargao three spectacular, Naked Island, Daku Island and

Guyam Island. You can rent a boat for $5 and go around the other islands. Explore the island by renting a motorbike or rent a tricyles (habal habal) and see the beautiful sceneries. Enjoy the fresh catch seafoods early morning. Restaurants and money exchanger (ATM) are available everywhere.

So when are you visiting?

Palaka Siargao Dive Center

Bayud Botique Resort, Dapa-Union Road, General Luna, Siargao - best view.

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TRAVEL BYÂ LUCHILE MAMON

Naked Island, Siargao - small sand bar

Sugba Lagoon, Del Carmen, Siargao Islands

Sugba Lagoon,

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Siargao Inn, Gen. Luna, Siargao

Sugba Lagoon, Del Carmen,

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Constellation-themed debut

Karell May Sinfuego

T

SHANGRILA HOTEL, MAKATI

he constellation-themed debut of Karrel May Sinfuego, the youngest daughter of Pinky Tobiano happened recently at EDSA Shangri – La Hotel.

Aside from the celebration, it was also the introduction of Progressive Organics, the first organic product line of Progressive Laboratories, which were given as giveaways for the guests who attended the event.

Everyone was captivated by the emotional first dance of the debutante with her grandfather, Julio Tobiano, as they danced to Christian Bautista’s

rendition of the song “Beautiful Girl”. Moreover, there were lots of special performances by Moira dela Torre and Erik Santos who serenaded the crowd. The night ended with an applauding dance performance from G-Force.

All of Karrel’s loved ones wish her a happy birthday as she goes aboard on a new ride of her life entering New York University (Shanghai Campus). Through prayers from everyone and with God’s grace, we are confident that Karrel will conquer the constellations on a path to success.

Email: joyfong@rocketmail.com Photo Lorna LLanes

Karrel Tobiano Sinfuego Karrel Sinfuego, Gian Sy, Pinky Tobiano, Juancho Robles, Pianne Tobiano Sinfuego

Christian Bautista & Joy Fong

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Gerry, Julia, Gian & Jimky Sy

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H.E. Ahmed & Madam Mervat Ezzat (Egypt)

Juancho Robles, Jiro Shirakawa, Pinky Tubiano, Gov. Luis Chavit Singson, Joel Cruz

Gilda Antonio, Susan Joven, Grace Glory Go, H.E Joey Antonio

Julio Tobiano & Teresita Pe

Grace Glory Go, Lizia Liu, H.E. Effie Matityau, H.E. Joey Antonio, Juancho Robles, Seating-Gilda Antonio

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Pure Tane, Teresita Pe, Jillian Sy

Madam Lizia Liu, H.E Effie Matityau (Israel)

Pianne Tobiano Sinfuego, Phoebe Vano, Bernice Dee. Chase Yao

Guest are dancing with the G-Force

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PROVERBS 31 JHOANNA DE GUZMAN

I

LEAVE A Mystery

n this day and age where everyone gets to be a public figure, more and more people are getting accustomed to live in such a way that is focused on pleasing others, looking good on someone else’s eyes and being liked for who others want them to be and not who they wanted to become.

As everyone aspires to be viral, most women now, forget the value of being hidden and leaving a mystery.

Francois de La Rochefoucauld said, “A good woman is a hidden treasure; who discovers her will and do well not to boast about it”.

Ladies, the less you reveal, the more people can wonder.

Snapping good photos for the purpose of revealing too much about ourselves and boasting it to other people steals a lot of our precious time as we shift our focus on sharing it with people who are just ‘curious’ rather than seizing and enjoying every moment with the one’s we love.

But true enough, with the world that we currently live in, sharing and keeping things is quite a hard thing to deal with.. But if you’re finding it difficult right now, let me be here to help you.

Here are seven points to ponder before clicking that button and share your life to the world.

1. People don’t need to know everything about you.

You have to leave something for them to wonder.

PROVERBS 31

By Jhoanna B. de Guzman

2. When you keep some things private, you won’t get accustomed to competing with anyone else.

After all, your only competition is yourself.

3. You’re a treasure, and treasures are meant to be found.

Luke 12:34 says, “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also”.

4. By keeping things, you put less pressure on yourself By not bragging about where I should dine or whom to be with or what should I buy next 5. You should post to inspire not to update None of us has an obligation to update other people.

6. You become more productive As you will tend to focus more on things that would give you a positive return in terms of money, real friends and new ideas.

7. You will be in a healthy and personal fellowship with others And having a personal communication would be so much beneficial as it nurtures the relationship in a more meaningful way.

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Cuneta-Ang Wedding

Mrs. Donabel Ang-Cuneta gown by Veluz make-up by Xyrene Eugenio flower by Rhoda Acierda

Newly Weds’ first dance

First kiss as Mr. & Mrs at St John Bosco Parish

M MAKATI

artin and Dona Cuneta’s wedding was held recently at St. John Bosco Parish in Makati City. The solemn occasion was followed by a fun and lively reception in New World Hotel in Makati, where guests enjoyed both food and games.

Their love story is straight out of a movie: Dona was hurrying for a client meeting. She was nearing an already closing elevator and one guy inside

40

made sure the doors stayed open. They exchanged pleasantries and found out that they were heading for the same floor. Dona’s client turned out to be the company Martin worked for. And the rest, as they say, is history. That fateful elevator ride years ago led them to this milestone, where they start a new life as one.

Congratulations and best wishes, Martin and Dona!.

Email: joyfong@rocketmail.com

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Just married! bridal car by DriveePinas

PostNup shoot at New World hotel Makati’s poolside

That’s a wrap for the church cermenoy

The bride’s family

The Bride Squad

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The groom on his way to the altar

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IN OTHER WORLD BY BECKY GARCIA

A Dinner for CEOs

The Bellevue Resort managing director Dustin Chan, The Bellevue Hotels & Resorts chairman Johnny Chan, The Bellevue Manila managing director Patrick Chan and B Hotels managing director Ryan Chan

BELLEVUE HOTEL, MANILA

T Kingstar Holidays and Tours’ Lulu Sy with Carol Abla

42

o express their appreciation and gratitude to their longtime clients and patrons, The Bellevue Manila, a five-star hotel in Alabang, Muntinlupa City and managed by the Bellevue Hotels & Resorts (BH&R), recently held an elegant sit-down dinner for Manila’s most distinguished businessmen and VIPs. Under the seasoned leadership of BH&R chairman Johnny Chan alongside his sons The Bellevue Manila managing director Patrick Chan, B Hotels managing director Ryan Chan and The Bellevue Resort managing director Dustin Chan. The well-dressed guests enjoyed the sumptuous dinner expertly prepared by The Bellevue Manila’s team of skilled chefs, as well as the exciting raffle that capped the evening.

The hardworking team behind IN OTHER WORLDS BH&R also announced that the

By Becky Garcia brand is continuing to expand its

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Denice Chan, Automated Technology-Connectivity general manager Domingo Bonifacio and The Bellevue Manila sales manager Jershey Mojica

Lexus Manila Inc. EVP Yuichiro Suzuki, The Bellevue Manila managing director Patrick Chan and B Hotels managing director Ryan Chan

reach with the soon-to-rise Bellevue hotel in the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio City. A truly magical evening was had by all.

Meanwhile, Top quality design services, well-trained sales personnel, and a wide array of building and decorating merchandise from the country’s leading industry supplier Wilcon are now made available to the residents of Silang, Cavite. The dynamic Wilcon founder and chairman emeritus William Belo was joined by his indefatigable SEVP-COO Rosemarie Ong, president and CEO Lorraine Belo-Cincochan and EVP and chief product officer Careen Belo along with other dedicated suppliers and friends at the grand opening of the brand’s 4th branch in the province of Cavite and 43rd in the country.

Among the VIP guests at the blessing were Silang, Cavite mayor Emilia Lourdes Poblete, Rain or Shine athletes and businessmen Chris Tiu and James Yap, Kent Floors president Jerry Tiu, Kohler Philippines country manager Jonathan Kwong, Ariston Thermo country manager Reah Ronsayro

Light of Jesus’ Bro. Arun Gogna and wife Lallaine with Marowe and husband Bro. Bo Sanchez

The Bellevue Resort managing director Dustin Chan with Personiv’s Lilibeth Cawili and Paulo Cheung

Elizabeth and Pharmalink Administrative Services Inc.’s Nardo Leviste

Marga Moreno-Aquende and Henry Aquende

and Lixil Water Technology country manager Alen Alban. A sumptuous buffet lunch concluded the festivities.

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IN OTHER WORLD BY BECKY GARCIA

The guests were also reminded that the Wilcon Win-a-Ride promo is still ongoing, giving Wilcon’s most devoted clients the opportunity to win six brand new Toyota Fortuners.

It was a wonderful afternoon of celebration for avid homebuilders in Silang.

(From left) Kohler Philippines country manager Jonathan Kwong, Rain or Shine athlete and businessman Chris Tiu, Ariston Thermo country manager Reah Ronsayro, Wilcon EVP and chief product officer Careen Belo and president and CEO Lorraine Belo-Cincochan, Kent Floors president Jerry Tiu, Wilcon founder and chairman emeritus William Belo, Silang, Cavite mayor Emilia Lourdes Poblete, Wilcon SEVP-COO Rosemarie Ong, Rain or Shine athlete and businessman James Yap and Lixil Water Technology country manager Alen Alban lead the ceremonial ribbon cutting

Rain or Shine athletes and businessmen James Yap and Chris Tiu

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(From left) Fedric Sia, Wilcon AVP for merchandising Nicholas Agbing and project engineer manager Isagani Robles, Kent Floors president Jerry Tiu and Jojo Bacarro

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Limson Marketing Inc. operations director Carl Lim, Fortress Marketing retail sales manager Fernando Yumang with Limson Marketing Inc. concession manager Leni Veloso-Imperial and managing director James Lim

Franke business development manager Banjo De Leon with Kohler Philippines country manager Jonathan Kwong

Carmelli Daet, Wilcon marketing manager Dheza Paras and Jayelles’ Ina Bugayong

(From left) Wilcon AVPs for sales Catherine Guingab. Ruby Candelaria, Desiree Cuerdo, Francisco Lazaro and Benly Chan

Akari retail division head Cleo De Ocampo, Globe Tape national sales and marketing head Neil Tieng and Lixil Water Technology country manager Alen Alban

Roda Zabat, Weng De Guzman and Lif Daya

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Johnson and Associates redefine

Manila’s Public Relations Landscape

LANA JOHNSON

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J&A team with Tricia Centenera

Heart and Rocio

J

ohnson & Associates (J&A), formerly known as WJG Asia, continues to be the boutique public relations firm that could.

With more than eight years of experience, celebrity publicist Lana Johnson, along with her managing partner Kevin Villahermosa create strategies for their elite roster of clients that help boost an authentic and strong image through powerful exposure.

A multi-faceted firm, J&A ensures to create strategies that are consistent with what their clients believe in the most.

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Lana Johnson and Managing Partner Kevin Villahermosa.

Event and PR photos by WJG PR

Johnson says, “Each of our clients has their own passions and goals for specific industries. J&A aims to provide opportunities for our clients to fulfill those goals and passions by connecting them with the industries they believe in. PR for us is very 48

personal – there’s no one formula, it works differently for everyone. We listen to the goal and vision of our clients and provide them with ways to interact and connect with industries that matter most to them.”

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SIAM LIVING BY MARICEL DIAZ

Miss Universe Thailand 2018

MUT2017 Maria Poonlertlarp during her farewell walk

BANGKOK, THAILAND

F

orty lovely, young and smart ladies from all over the country participated in this year’s search for the most confidently beautiful in Thailand. The winner vying to be the next Miss Universe Thailand. This year’s winner is Maria Poonlertlarp’s. Maria, who competed last year in the Miss Universe pageant finished among the Top 5 winners.

The MUT organization made this month-long event more fun by including exciting activities for these aspiring ladies such as acting classes, a series of modeling classes, fitness and wellness activities, cooking lessons, fine dining experiences, a visit to a children’s orphanage, temple visits and merit making and a city tour. But, the highlight was the IrKrabi province trip to help promote tourism in the area and where the swimsuit competition was held.

The Miss Universe Thailand organization also announced that aside from a brand new car, this year’s winner will be presented with a new crown designed and made by Beauty Gems company

worth 1 million Thai baht.

During the preliminary competition, the 40 candidates flaunted their grace on stage and in public. This was a first preliminary for the prejudging process. The show included catwalks in their swimsuits and long gowns. Following these, four ladies received special awards from this year’s main sponsors as follows: Candidate #12 Palita Puttharassu - Best in Swimsuit and Miss Smile awards Candidate #5 Natharuetai Akkarakijwattanakul Best Skin award Candidate #11 Valentina Giardullo - Boutique Lady (Bangkok Airways) Candidate #29 Urachapat Dechabenjanon - Miss Beauty and Elegance award.

Before the preliminary competition ended, the People’s Choice thru SMS Top 5 ladies was also announced. They are the following candidates:: 1- #40 Rathaneekorn Jirakunakorn 2- #16 Suttinee Wichianchoi 3- #34 Lalitkarn Phornnipatkul 4- #14 Praveena Singh 5- #1 Nicolene Limsnukan.

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The top winner among these ladies automatically joins the Final Top 15 at the Finals Night.

THE MAIN NIGHT

This event opened with a grand presentation where ladies showed up in Thai traditional costume.

Joining them on stage are previous Miss Universe Thailand Top Achievers at the Miss Universe pageant, Aniporn, (MUT 2015), Chalita (MUT 2016) and Maria (MUT 2017) all to the delight of the audience. Immediately after came the swimsuit show, the announcement of People’s Choice and Top 15, Top 16 in Swimsuit and Beach Fashion, Top 10 picks, long gown walk and then the Top 5 announcement. There was then a Q&A portion for the Top 5, the announcement of runners-up and the final Q&A for the Top 2’s and ended with a 30 second speech portion.

The most awaited moment arrived and Miss

Universe Thailand 2018 was candidate #20, Sophida Kanchanarin. This 24 year old lady lives in the city of Bangkok and finished her Business Administration degree majoring in Finance Education (with honors) at the University of Nevada, USA. Sophida’s win was a surprise to many. She being the quiet type. And despite not getting any special awards or recognition, she emerged and became a strong candidate with her smart responses during the Q&A portions.

Sophida bested the Top 15 ladies ,candidates Nicolene(1), Palita (12), Natharuetai (5), Valentina (11), Penpimon (13), Lalitkarn (34), Praveena (14), Vanaporn (15), Pichaya (25), (Supatra (17), Ruechanok (22), Menisa (2), Watusiri (24), Aniphan (9), and Thitaree (10).

This year’s runner up are Valentina Giardullo, Praveena Singh and PalitaPuttharassu sharing the 2nd Runner up place while the 1 st Runner Up is ThitareeKasorn.

Joint2ndRunnersUp

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MU2018 Sophida Kanchanarin

Valentina Giardullo 2RU

Thitaree Kasorn 1RU

Palita Puttharassu 2RU

Praveena Singh 2RU

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SIAM LIVING BY MARICEL DIAZ

Up close and personal with Miss

Universe Thailand 2018, SophidaKanchanarin

O

n her first official day taking on the duties of Miss Universe Thailand 2018, I had an up close and personal chat with Sophida who graciously answered some of the questions I prepared for her.

Aside from winning the crown, what was the most exciting part during the competition for you?

Aside from the crown, it was the new family.

I got a new family, with friendships that I cannot find anywhere else. My new found friends and I had a good experience together. We had activities in Bangkok and Krabiand which were so much fun. We are not just friends, we are now a family with Miss Universe Thailand 2018. It was an incredible experience and I am so joyful. I won’t forget this forever.

So you have the exciting part, what about the challenging

MU2017 Maria Poonlertlarp crowning the new MUT

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parts of the competition? What are they?

The past years Miss Universe Thailand, Khun Nat, KhunChalita and Khun Maria, are so successful.

They are all my idols. I want to be like them. So what I am gonna do is prepare myself, in every way to become a better me and to be ready for Miss Universe pageant. First of all, one has got to be ready. To be in shape, work out hard to look healthy.

Second is about gaining knowledge.

To read news about the world, and see what is going on. Third is to practice walking and speaking for the Miss Universe pageant.

And are you willing to learn?

Yes, I am very willing to learn. I have my team to support me and I believe in my team. We can work as a team together and will compete together.

Sophida and Thitaree before the announcement of MUTWinner

You are now the Miss Universe Thailand, what will be your advocacy or campaign to promote?

Above all, it’s about disability. Because my sister, my own younger sister has a disability. I want to help people with disabilities. In Thailand, they are still left off in terms of jobs and their opportunity to work with others, it’s about equality for the disabled. There are facilities in Thailand, I want to focus on supporting these facilities. The disabled can then go to work, go anywhere just like everyon else. So with transportation and the facilities that can support them. I’d like my campaign to be like that. The second thing is education. For me education is the key to success. When I was younger, I was not a successful..

Back in the US, when I was in Florida, I could not go to school because my English was really bad. But I never gave up. You never give up on your dreams, you follow your dreams. And then I went to Las Vegas, I followed my dreams and fulfilled them. I received a gold medal awarded

by President Obama and finished my studies with honors from my university with a Major in Finance. It all came from my perseverance. I want

to encourage the new generation and everyone in my country and the world to never give up on their dreams. I want to be the role model for this new generation.

What would you like to tell your supporters and fans?

Really…so many thanks to my fans all over the world and here in Thailand. To my great supporters, I will not be Sophida right now, the Miss Universe Thailand without you guys. All your support is my inspiration. Everyday I wake up and read the good comments, they see my improvements and progress and it makes me so happy. Please continue to cheer for me as I represent Thailand. I can’t wait to be in the Miss Universe competition, to meet new friends from other countries and share my culture and my experiences with them. Thank you!

Thank you, KhunNing! And we are wishing you all the best for the Miss Universe 2018 competition soon.

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VIETNAM

Fashion Week PHOTOS BY: MKS PHOTOGRAPHY

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iet Fashion Week is not like other destination Fashion Weeks, but a cultural and artistic event promoting Vietnamese designers worldwide. After their launch in 2013, Viet Fashion Week has established a name and reputation for providing a platform for Vietnamese designers. The mission is to be able to show the world the talents and creativity of Vietnamese designers while incorporating entertainment, arts, and culture. 2018, being their 5th year, Viet Fashion Week returned to Westminster Mall in the heart of Little Saigon but with a larger more magnificent outdoor venue. This year, Viet Fashion Week hosted local celebrity designers Calvin Hiep and Jacky Tai, emerging designers Trang Bui, Angela Nguyen, Uni & Ellie Nguyen, and Connecticut designer Annie Nguyen. To know more about the event, visit www. vietfashionweek.com manilaupmagazine.com

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VIETNAM Fashion Show PHOTOS BY: BENSON MINH TRAN DESIGNER: ERIK LU

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MODEL: KAMY NGUYEN

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VIETNAM Fashion Show PHOTOS BY: BENSON MINH TRAN

DESIGNER: JACKY TAI​

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VIETNAM Fashion Show PHOTOS BY: MKS PHOTOGRAPHY DESIGNER: TRANG BUI

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