IAMKBYN Digital Magazine - Launching Issue

I AM KABAYAN 12.24.2020

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Vision: to bring Filipino Expats together and gain inspiration from one another.

Mission: We strive to reach out and connect Filipino Expats around the globe by showcasing their real-life stories.

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If you do not accept these Terms and Conditions, you should cease use of this platform immediately. However, if you want to read some awesome Kabayan related articles, please don’t leave just yet.

I reserve the right to change any of these Terms and Conditions at any given time on this digital magazine. As I am quite unpredictable and a restless person, please check back here often.

I created and conceptualized this digital magazine a long time ago and dedicated this project to all Filipino Expats worldwide. There’s no journalism in my blood, but I can able to adapt their daily routine of work and can able to stressed it freely of my own about their duties and responsibilities on this platform. Articles being used aside from direct interviews from different walks of life or to anyone who wished to be interviewed as most of them will be a contributed source from other contributors that are willingly offered with no copyright infringement issues of whatsoever that I have no claim at all.

Even though we work very hard to provide you with exciting information and interview coming from our community, We make no representations or warranties of any kind (expressed or implied) about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability of any pieces of information, products, services or related graphics contained on IAMKBYN for any purpose.

Especially when it comes to subscriptions, contributors information and website addresses, We advise you to double-check.

We aim to provide you with accurate information from my standpoint, but we are contributors at the time of publishing. But some information will understandably be less accurate as time passes. Should you find any inaccurate information, please do not hesitate to contact me. I will drop everything, get behind my laptop and correct this world shocking mistake right away or as soon as I finished my coffee. I do have my priorities you see.

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You will not be spammed in any way, I will not send you Valentines and/or Christmas Cards (unless you ask me to and I really like you) and I will not sell or disclose your information to any other companies.

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Reserve Rights I, Mhar Delaben from IAMKBYN Media Production, reserves the right to change the focus of the website/digital magazine (like turning it into a platform for fellow philanthropists and sand collectors) as I might very well do in the future), to shut it down, sell it, change the terms of use (go to a paid platform) at my own discretion.

I also reserve the rights to edit or delete any comments submitted to iamkabayan.com and IAMKBYN Digital Magazine without notice due to: comments deemed to be spam or questionable spam, comments including profanity, comments containing language or concepts that could be deemed offensive, comments that attack a group or person individually, or comments from my parents telling me to call them more often. I do accept virtual kisses, flowers and encouraging pets on the back.

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Just because we like the colour red (usually with white polka dots), doesn’t have to mean you will like it too!

To help the website and digital magazine expand, to cover costs of running the site and for us to be able to fly to the Philippines three times a year (YEAH WE WISH!), some advertising and affiliate links are run on our website. We will do our absolute best to only provide you with information about (Filipino Expats) products that we truly believe in. We will never take your trust for granted. All reviews on our website will be presented honestly, and we will disclose whether we will be receiving any commissions or products for free.

Letters to the Editor Any letters, emails, blog comments, responses on Social Media platforms such as Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter, or questions written directly to us may be used to share with our blogging audience unless specifically requested otherwise. (Part of) these letters or emails, questions or any other feedback may be used in newsletters, blog posts, columns or up-and-coming books. Big compliments will be painted on a tile and put up in my bathroom.

Mhar Delaben

I AM KABAYAN 12.24.2020

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CREATOR’S NOTE

Determination gets you there...

Hello mga kabayan!

On behalf of IamKBYN team, I am Mhar Beloved, and we are launching this new digital magazine today, the 24th of December, because this was the day 16 years ago when we left the Philippines and arrived in Dubai with nothing but big hopes and dreams in our hearts.

Tandang tanda ko pa yung Gulf Air na eroplanong sinakyan namin papuntang Dubai. Nag stop-over kami sa one of the hotels ng Bahrain, and then there’s a Filipina working in that hotel and she addressed us: “Kabayan, bagong dating lang po kayo?”

Indeed, that was our first-time encounter being called a kabayan. Imagine, today marked the 16th year of being an OFW, and we are so proud of being one at syempre ang pagiging Kabayan. Sixteen years ago, IAMKBYN was born, “I AM KABAYAN” not because for this digital magazine, but me as one. We strive to reach out and connect Filipino Expats to gain inspiration from one another and to showcase the real-life stories from within ourselves.

Sa buhay natin minsan you’ll feel the hardship and almost giving up to the point that you’re blaming yourself, perhaps yung hindi ka nakapagtapos ng college, and you thought you were smart enough to land a job anyway. I realized it wasn’t all about where you came from or what status of your life or connections with people, but if you truly believe that you are going to do well in the future then find a way and do whatever it takes.

Today, we are so grateful to all the people who have helped us reach where we are right now. That’s because we chase our dreams and the compelling reasons which motivate us to move forward. Our way of giving back is to inspire other kababayans to continue believing in themselves by pursuing their big dreams and making them happen with one another.

True enough, if you are determined to reach your goal, never quit and always look for a way to get where you’re supposed to go.

In every new beginning, there’s always birth pains. We only have 16 years of experience of being an OFW and the family and friends that surrounded us. So in this issue, we start small, and we tried our best to present real-life stories that could bring inspirations to everyone from different walks of life.

We would appreciate hearing from you on how we can further improve our magazine. We also would like to ask you to join us on our journey in the next issues by sharing your own inspirational and insightful stories and experiences.

Because of you, mga kababayan, we have been encouraged to come up with our Vision and Mission and do things straight from the heart.

Vision To bring Filipino Expats together and gain inspiration from one another.

Mission We strive to reach out and connect Filipino Expats around the globe by showcasing their real-life stories.

Meet-the-team Mhar Delaben Lance Osano Hazel Molina Contributor: Leal Constantine For enquiries, email us at: iamkbyn@gmail.com +971 50 409 7585 | +971 04 355 3078

I AM KABAYAN, Maraming Salamat po!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

IAMKBYN MEDIA PRODUCTION Business Name No. 2350183 CITY OF BACOLOD (Capital), NEGROS OCCIDENTAL - REGION VI (WESTERN VISAYAS) is a business name registered in this office pursuant to the provisions of Act 3883, as amended by Act 4147 and Republic Act No. 863, and in compliance with the applicable rules and regulations prescribed by the Department of Trade and Industry.

Mhar Delaben

CONTENTS PAGE LAUNCH ISSUE

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24th December 2020

14 Open Inspiration LEAL CONSTANTINE: SHAWKA Hiking is a Bit Life Like

Kabayan Experience MARK LEGASPI: DON’T WASTE TIME, JUST DO IT! This is the launching issue and we invited Mark Legaspi, the business owner of the Phoenix BM Group to be one of our featured guest.

08 Dalagang Filipina LAURA CAMILLE LUARCA: LIVING IN DUBAI

Living abroad seems daunting and promising. I am Kabayan aim to inspire people in different walks of life through sharing personal stories and experiences to our kababayans.

IAMKBYN SPOTLIGHT: PHOTOGRAPHER

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18 At Home MARCHIA GIMONGALA: #MARCHIASKITCHEN

One does not need to be a pro-chef in order to cook delish foodies, as long as you have the heart to cook one can always prepare fancy food on their respective tables at home in such a small cost…

MAYCHELLE ALVIOR Arts & Healing

28 MARK PAGSIBIGAN

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FRANK TURNER:

JOURNEY OF THE MAGI

TRAVELOGUE: OPEN LETTER

12 Musikabayan JANRY ALIGANGA: KAIZEN RALLY

Don’t just let your own ghost haunt you

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20 Sports MARCO ROLA PATO: AL TAWEEN ENDURO NATION

Al Taween Enduro Nation was conceived by the regular riders of the park who then belong to different mountain biking groups in the UAE.

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Open Inspiration Leal Constantine

HIKING IS A BIT LIKE LIFE

Leal Constantine 6

I AM KABAYAN 12.24.2020

Open Inspiration Leal Constantine

Shawka is a village in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. It is a popular hiking destination, noted for the popular hiking areas around the wadi Shawka and the Shawka Dam.

The journey only requires you to put one foot in front of the other.... again and again and again. And if you allow yourself opportunity to be present throughout the entirety of the trek, you will witness beauty every step of the way, not just at the summit nor the end of the journey.

- unknown

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Dalagang Filipina Laura Camille Luarca

Living in Dubai L

iving abroad seems daunting and promising. I am Kabayan aim to inspire people in different walks of life through sharing personal stories and experiences to our kababayans. It doesn’t matter wherever you may be living your life to the full or not all we care about is you being a Filipino.

Today, we got a chance to talk to a pretty teen Laura Camille who spent most of her time in the UAE since birth. Her day to day experiences and challenges will be somehow able to inspire other teenagers living abroad.

Without further ado, let’s get to know more about Laura Camille and see how she truly feels.

Now, tell us who Laura Camille is?

I am simple! Hahaha. I was born in the year 2000 and raised here in the UAE since then. I am currently studying at Bath Spa University in Ras Al Khaimah, and I’m taking up Business Management and hopefully soon I’ll be graduating on these coming year!

Good stuff! Are you close to your mom or your dad, tell us why?

Being the youngest child, I am close to both of them, my mom and dad. I’m too close to my parents, like my older sister who’s in the Philippines at the moment. I choose to continue my studies here after completing my high school in Dubai, that’s why I’ve been with my parents ever since. Some say’s that the parents always spoil the youngest child of the family, and I think that statement is true! I am still my mom’s and dad’s baby!

How would you describe your personality?

I am typically a simple and shy person, but I do have a strong personality from within, and I’m independent too! I am friendly, and I have so many friends, but there’s only a few of them whom I consider being my true-friends.

What was the biggest problem you encounter?

I guess the biggest problem I ever encountered was when I am in the Philippines continuing my school. I was already in the Philippines, and got enrolled in my new school, but! I truly felt it, deep in my heart, I couldn’t management myself pursuing my studies there. I’m in a culture-shocked situation and struggling because I am not close enough to my comfort zone. My parents decided to bring me back here in Dubai to continue my schooling. Problems come and go; and so far, all of the issues I faced I had managed to overcome with the help of my parents and friends.

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Can’t imagine how you feel, but have you ever been bullied, and what do you think of bullying?

Thank God! I have never been bullied yet, and I don’t want to give them a chance to drive me in any situation. That was one of my fear when I was in the Philippines. In my own opinion, bullying is the worst thing you could ever do to someone else. It could bring down your selfesteem and makes you develop a traumatizing experience that can instil fear and depression in the long run.

What’s the difference between living in Dubai and the Philippines?

I think it’s the lifestyle and the amount of respect that you will get from anyone here in the UAE compare to the Philippines. The way of living here is quite expensive. People have many things conversely here in Dubai than in the Philippines. Dubai has everything from

Laura Camille’s pre-debut photoshoot session at La Mer-Dubai last October 2018.

Dalagang Filipina Laura Camille Luarca

“I think it’s the lifestyle and the amount of respect that you will get from anyone here in the UAE compare to the Philippines.”

Photograph by Mhar Delaben

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Dalagang Filipina Laura Camille Luarca

attention to something that has a better purpose than wallowing myself in jealousy.

What experiences do you think have impacted your life thus far?

I guess by being with myself and independent, I came out stronger. As young as 18, I started working part-time, and I only have a very few profound life experiences so far. Believing in yourself and having confidence will help you go a long way. I still have more roads to travel to, and not all the paths are straight, there will be some humps that will serve as my learning experience.

Which choices have taught you the most significant lessons?

This particular experience was when I was supposed to continue my studies in the Philippines, my parents have already enrolled me in a private school for my senior high school, they even paid my tuition fee full, and I only studied for a week. I couldn’t continue, and I couldn’t do it, I still choose to study in Dubai.

Lesson learned I could not stay away from my parents and the comfort they give me. Also, it was a scary experience being away from my comfort zone.

better job opportunities, big shopping malls, easy access of transportation and food, everything is clean and organized and not to mention that Dubai is the safest place to live in, it is my comfort zone because I was raised and lived here ever since. While in the Philippines, I don’t feel much comfortable to live there. I am not used to the place yet, though it’s nice to be there for vacation. I cannot imagine my life living there away from my parents, but I’m hoping that someday something might change on my point of view.

What do you think makes a good friend?

From Pre School till my High School days, many of my friends come and go. A good friend does not necessarily have to be there at all times, as long as you have good communication and it is crucial that you understand each other, even if you don’t meet or see each other often but when you do, pick up from where you left off. A good friend is one who will be there in your good and in your bad times, too; and will always bring out the best in you.

That’s inspiring; do things ever make you jealous? How do you handle those feelings?

Being human, of course, I feel jealous at times, and I handle those feelings by diverting my attention towards other things. So, I’m giving much my 10

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If you could meet anyone right now, who would it be?

If it were possible to meet anyone, I would choose to see both of my grandmothers who passed away last year. I would like to see them again and tell them how much I loved and missed them. I would love to spend it with them because we often take things for granted.

I know they are in a better place now; I shall continue to pray for them.

What message could you express to say to your fellow teenager here in Dubai?

The stage of being a teenager could be quite challenging, and it’s okay to commit mistakes - no one is perfect. Making our own mistakes is also how we will learn; our own experience is what will make us bolder and wiser. We will face lots of problems, but shouldn’t let our problems put us down. Our most excellent support system; our parents and friends will always be there to guide and support us. n

Dalagang Filipina Laura Camille Luarca

A good friend is one who will be there in your good and in your bad times, too; and will always bring out the best in you.

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MusikaBayan Kaizen Rally

JanryAliganga Vocalist/Main songwriter Rhythm Guitarist

Terrence Prado Drummer

JP Amparado Bass guitarist

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www.iamkabayan.com

OG Maat Lead Guitarist

What’s the story behind Kaizen Rally, and how did it evolve?

Early 2012, Janry wanted to propose to his wife, Patty. And so with his brother Barry, a longtime friend and college bandmate Benz, and Mar a bandmate from OLBO who happens to be on hiatus during that time, went on to form Kaizen Rally. It was just for that performance; however, the band decided to continue making music. Then the rest was history…

How would you describe the music of the band that you typically create?

We love writing songs about giving hope, life lessons and coping up with everyday life.

What is your favourite song to perform and what’s the story behind that song?

As of the moment, it’s My Own Ghost, the song is about something personal and selfreflecting. When all seems to be unfair, or you’ve been taken for granted... just don’t let your own ghost haunt you.

A guilt-free conscience is the best thing our sanity can fathom. Char!

What genre is Kaizen Rally playing and what inspires you to go along with the band?

We all have our different influences, but primarily we love writing songs the indie and alternative way.

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

Oh, can’t seem to have in mind, but yeah since we are all OFW’s here in Dubai, we hope that we could perform on live stages without heaps of restrictions when it comes to permitting and stuffs like that.

What do you like to do outside of music that contributes to your musicality?

Hmmm, probably merch and all related stuffs.

Which musician would Kaizen Rally be likely to collaborate with in the future?

The Cure and Ely Buendia.

If you can have your fans remember one thing about Kaizen Rally, what would it be?

Hahaha, we are not yet that famous for having fans, but if ever, probably our music, we hope that one day we would be able to influence them, that we were once part of their life riding thru their emotions through the songs and music we create.

If you had one message to give to your fans, what would it be?

Hold on to Life. n

I AM KABAYAN 01.17

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Kabayan Experience Mark Legaspi

Don’t waste time, just do it!

Inside Mark’s Laser Jockey shop on the top and partying with his staff on the middle, and Mark’s family spent time with his previous fantastic boss Tony Sawyer.

T

his is the launching issue and we invited Mark Legaspi, the business owner of the Phoenix BM Group to be one of our featured guest. Despite of his hectic schedule, we are fortunate enough for the time he had given us for this interview. What a chance for us to know more about him, his company, his love for music and the way he managed his time to his family and to the things he love to do when he’s stressed. Now, lets bring all this questions to him.

Who is Mark Legaspi in and out of Phoenix BM Group?

I am an easy going guy man. I take things at face value and try not to over complicate things. Good vibes lang, life is short para ma stress sa mga bagay-bagay hahaha. When I’m with family, I try not to think of work, and just hang out. Watch a movie or minsan I play Call of duty with my son. I also cook for them, there’s a day in a week that I will cook. I love cooking, isa din yan sa stress reliever ko eh. I also like hanging out with close friends and my staff mag bbq or inom konti kwentuhan goodvibes ganon.

At work naman, I am still the same guy, but syempre work is work. I like things done right, di pwede yung pwede na yan. Like what I always tell to my staff “kung gagawa tayo lets do it nang magiging proud tayo, yung taas nuo mo ma sasabi sa iba na, man I was part of that project.” If it means re-doing things, so be it.

We don’t compromise quality.

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One of Mark’s project.

Mark spend quality time with his family.

I guess I’m also blessed to have a team of like-minded individuals that shares the same passion at work as I do kaya smooth and stress-free. Kasi when we hire, we don’t hire of what they know we look at attitude and their drive.

Kasi knowledge and know-how we can teach that eh but ang importante the team dapat mag gel, otherwise very stressful pag meron isa sa team na bad vibes hehe.

How did you get your idea or concept for the business?

Well, growing up, I was a really stubborn kid. I like doing things my way and naturally very curious about things around me. I would find my self in different jobs that I thought I would be happy with like bartending. I tried to work in our family business, but that didn’t last long. Then I became a club DJ, and at some point, I was also a radio Dj, and the list goes on. I was looking for a career path that I can wake up and be excited about the day to come.

I was looking for a career path that I could wake up and be excited about the day to come.

Kabayan Experience Mark Legaspi

How did you evolve from a day jobber to having a company of your own?

But I was never a day jobber, hahaha! Until now, well lalo na ngayon my work timings are never restricted by 9 to 5 contrary to what most people think that having your own business and having employees means that its less work. It’s the opposite because having your own business is actually more work and you find yourself bringing those work home or doing them even on weekends. That’s why it’s very important that if someone has to open a business, it should be something that they are passionate about para it doesn’t feel like its work. But of course, with the help of my team and dedicated employees, I find time to balance my family life and my passion din. Otherwise, it can get really stressful.

Yes, I can imagine that running your own business can be stressful, what do you do to cope or de-stress?

Music with my band, games, a little drink with friends and my staff. Pinaka trip ko is yung time at home. Pag naglalaro kami ng anak ko ng Call of Duty, when I cook for them, watching series, and the Tulfo binges with my wife pam pa tulog.

Mark’s cook food for his family’s dinner.

Well, it was like that until I turned 26 when I got into AV and I realized that hey! I am actually happy doing this, and I can see myself doing this for 10 more years to come. So ganon, that’s how it started after realizing na yeah this is the career path that I was looking for then I quit my job and started Liberty Acoustic & Services. Tapos a year later, I partnered with my mom and rebranded LAS to Phoenix LAS, kasi pangalan ng business ni ermat ay Phoenix Business Management, which later on I took over na din when she retired to the US. Fast track 14 years later, I just recently purchased one of our competitor an AV retail company “Laser Jockey Electronics LLC”. So I guess the gamble paid off.. Basta you’re happy with what you are doing go lang and everything will fall into place.

Music nice, Lets talk about your music and your band.

Music, my dad used to have this collection of LP records. He got eagles, scorpion and some jazz etc. You know, tito/daddy stuff, and trip ko yun nung bata pako pag nag sound trip si erpat man, I also remember when he gave me a promo cassette of all Electrolux jingles. They actually had an album yeah that knock on your door jingle and some 80s and 90s rock ripoff songs with altered lyrics to promote the brand haha! I loved it, and that’s how I started to love music, and music has been a vital part of my life since then.

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Kabayan Experience Mark Legaspi Kamikazee is a Filipino rock band formed in 2000, and visited Dubai last year March 2018 to perform for the Filipino music festival and Mark Legaspi got a chance to housed the band in his residence villa in Mirdiff, Dubai.

There’s so much more to learn from the people around me, so I have to make sure that I’m always at the top of my game and always trying to be a better person and grounded in the process.

Gatilyo my brothers from another mother, yes. Ah ano ba? It started out as a collaboration project with David Ojeda of GDE. Meron syang riff na hindi na gamit sa GDE then nag message sya sakin asking if I can write the lyrics and sing na din... And I loved it. Gustong gusto ko yung music and thats how our song Bagyo came into fruition. After that I think at the point we both knew that this is not just gonna be a one-off song project tinawagan namin kaagad si Axel then Clyden joined. Tas nag gel eh, I guess that is very important, may it be work or a band kahit sa relationship dapat mag gel.

We created music that we like, we didn’t really care if people would like our music or not. We 16

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Can you share what the band experiences playing in the Wish Bus 107.5?

Hahaha pagod, paos, gutom, puyat and hangover... Kasi, we where on a 2-week tour for the Bagyo Single release and our manager Joel Ellorin got us booked in back to back gigs, radio guestings, mtv interview etc. And Wish was like the last leg and so haha! yun hagard man, but it was fun. Lahat yung na raramdaman namin na pagod, puyat etc pag pasok namin sa bus nawala yun eh. Masaya sya! oh shout out pala sa napaka bait at pasensyosong manager Sir Joel Ellorin I think nag bayad pa sya ng speaker na nasira namin from route 196 hahaha!

Nasira nyong speaker? Tell us more.

Hahaha! Wag na!

just wrote songs for us hahaha bahala kayo magustuhan nyo o hindi. Basta eto kanta namin, we have fun yun lang. Then we opened for numerous OPM bands when they visit Dubai, and we eventually got signed under Warner, did a tour in the Philippines. Man, it was crazy! but fun.

Gatilyo, What are you guys doing now?

Ahh work man. Focus muna kami sa work since wala din namang events pa dahil sa delubyo, and trying to work on our new songs. We had a lot of plans eh sinira ng covid kasi after the tour nung 2018, since 3 years na very active yung band prior the single release tour we decided na pahinga ng till Q4 ng 2019 so we can refocus sa work, family etc. and comeback fresh ulit to finish the album, new music video etc.

Who inspires you to bring out the best of you?

Ahh, there is not a single person, eh. I appreciate people’s brilliance and get inspired by all the people I meet regardless of who they are. I think having this mindset helped me to think that there is always someone better than me. There is so much more to learn from the people around us, so I have to make sure that I’m always at the top of my game and always try to be a better person and grounded in the process.

But if I have to be specific on who influence me, I would say, First, it’s my DAD, kasi even when I was a kid he talked to me about his work, and how fun it was to sell stuff etc. Then pag walang pasok or holiday i sasama nyako sa mga out of town bid nila with his team. So at an early age I got exposed na eh with business, and he will give

Kabayan Experience Mark Legaspi

me pointers during the long drive on how to talk to people, how to close a deal etc etc..

Secondly, my mom. When I moved with my mom and studied here in Dubai in 1993, back then kasi she owned tailoring shops and a recruitment business here in Dubai and nag parttime ako sa kanya after school.

And lastly Tony Sawyer. The best boss I ever had and an amazing friend. He was the manager of the last job I was in. I think it was 2005 in VV & Sons before I opened my business. He was strict and will call you out and lay it down as hard as a mofo. He calls it how he sees it. Minsan talaga ma papaiyak kanalang eh hahaha but I get what he was doing. He wanted to get us better at what we do, and I learned a lot from him.

Wow! you studied in UAE? What year?

Yes, I studied here 1993, 2nd-year Highschool or year 8 in Cambridge Dubai, then na kick out ako dun ng year 9 (3rd year HS) don’t ask why hahaha then I moved to UIPS. 3rd year till I graduated HS.

Someone out there reading this interview, how can you inspire them to have their own business or to get out from the comfort zone and do what they love to do?

Look for a career path that you are happy and passionate about and just start. I’ve seen a lot of people planning for their perfect business na inabot na ng ilang taon planning parin. Man just do it. If you’re passionate about it, and happy doing it then don’t worry kasi things will fall in place when you’re there na.

How would you describe the old Dubai compared to Dubai that we know now?

Oh man hahaha. Dubai back then, imagine this 1993, the tallest building was Sheikh Zayed, then after Toyota building desert na until Abu Dhabi. KFC sa Al Nahda was the only building in Al Nahda Sharjah then susunod na na building ay Al Wahda na. We used to have free shuttle service from Burjuman to Algurair, shawarma was 75 fils for mutton, and 1.50 for chicken oh and the list goes on. Oh, good times.

If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting, what would it be?

Yeah yun nga, look for happiness in everything you do, always see the positive side of every situation and if you have an idea, do it. Don’t waste time planning it, just do it and learn along the way. And lastly, invest on people and stay grounded. n

Gatilyo was in a two-week tour in the Philippines on the year 2018 and they perform their single release “Bagyo” LIVE on Wish 107.5 Bus. Gatilyo is an allFilipino band based in Dubai has been signed by a major record label in the Philippines.

The band comprises Mark Legaspi on the vocals, David Ojeda as their lead guitarist, Axzell Florida on the drums, and Clyden Bonifacio on bass guitar,

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AT HOME #marchiaskitchen with

One does not need to be a pro-chef in order to cook delish foodies, as long as you have the heart to cook one can always prepare fancy food on their respective tables at home in such a small cost…

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Pan-Seared Steak with Corn & Mushroom as Side Dishes for today’s lunch.

Steaks are always easy to prepare and just need the basic salt & pepper to make a delicious one

My Family >> << Spaghetti Meatballs Another fam’s fave

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Chicken Barbeque in Chilli Ginger Marinade with Mixed Veggies for today’s lunch

www.iamkabayan.com

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ello, I am Marchia Gimongala, a native of Pampanga, a place famous as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a foodie by nature and cooking is one of my many passions; hence my love for food and creating mouthwatering dishes conceptualized and created in my very own home kitchen - #marchiaskitchen.

I enjoy food, and I can eat and try any cuisine at the same time, this is why I have always been fond of watching cooking channels, but then I did not get into it

until we were confined in our homes this year due to the global pandemic. So, I must say, this unsettled time urged my cooking instincts to get activated into actual cooking, eventually creating high rated food in the comfort of our very home. The excitement and satisfaction when creating a dish from scratch is truly an achievement. Somehow, I always want my kids to remember me as one of the best cooks after all, they are the food tasters in the house. Cooking for my hubs and my two

kids and experiencing the joy and happiness when they taste the dishes is always a proud moment for me as a mum and as a wife which makes me claim myself a home-chef.

I want my kids to pass on the love of cooking and simple cooking tips to their families of their own in the future and further passing on to generations to come.

I hope that #marchiaskitchen will not only inspire you to cook from the heart but also give you a true sense of happiness of what home cooking brings about. n

<< Sichuan Chilli Shrimps

(frozen shrimps used) smells & tastes amazingly good with all the aroma coming from the mix of ginger, powdered mixed peppercorns, dried chillies and scallions.

<< Korean Fried Chicken Wings Plain or with sweet chili sauce. Another kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fave

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Classic Beef Cheeseburger

requested by my kiddos.

This time with my Classic Mojito, it makes me amazingly happy when my kids think of my homemade burger better than that of the signature burger of McDonalds.

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Sports Al Taween Enduro Nation

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n 2019 it came to fruition where a unified body was formed and now called Al Taween Enduro Nation.

History: An adventure company under the Crown Prince Office of Fujairah started developing adventure spots in a town called Al Taween inside Fujairah. The area is surrounded by rocky mountains, farms and amazing hiking spots enjoyed by different Nationalities.

A Trail builder was assigned specifically in Al Taween for building hiking and mountain bike trails who everyone knows as Marko Rivera Gauna. A Filipino national who designed and built the trails mainly in Fujairah and an Enduro aficionado himself planted the seeds of speed and confidence to everyone who comes and enjoy his creation.

At first there were only 3 Stages and as everyone progressed in their riding a need for a more challenging trail was needed.

Soon after a new stage debut that offers everything with pedal sections, corners, rock gardens, technical sections, drops and rotor burning steep descends was added.

Now coined as Al Taween Enduro Park it now offers 4 stages of Enduro tracks that offers different challenges to enduro aficionados.

Definitely Al Taween is one of the many Mountain Bike destinations that needs to be in your bucket list in the country.

AL TAWEEN

ENDURO

NATION

Trails The Enduro Park now offers 4 stages designed to suit every riders skill and demands. Full Face Helmets and Body protection is a must and shouldn’t be over looked. And the key to furtherly enjoy these trails is to have a proper Enduro spec’d bike.

Races ATEN Gravity Series has been coined and we just finished the 3rd Leg last December 4, 2020. The 4th and final leg is now under the talks and would likely start the races in 2021. The 3rd leg is significant to ATEN and Fujairah Adventures as sports competitions are starting to take place despite of regulations imposed by the UAE Government to overcome the Pandemic.

Upcoming Events December 25, 2020 is the date to watch out for as Fujairah Adventures will hold the 3rd Fujairah Adventures Enduro Race. It is one of the biggest Mountain Biking events in the country and will close out 2020 with a Bang. Rider’s from around the Globe flock to be part of this prestigious event to win the coveted title. Last year’s Elite Category was packed with riders from different nationalities and won by Gabriel Amigo III from the Philippines; an Elite Rider who is also competing for the Enduro World Series.

Will he come and defend his Title this year.

Al Taween Enduro Nation is composed by the following groups: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

IAMPADJAKULERO 42ER’S MAD MONKEYS ABU DHABI MTB DERA (DUBAI ENDURO RIDERS ADDICT) FART (FUJAIRAH ADVENTURES RACING TEAM) JET (JUMEIRAH ENDURO TEAM) ROOST SHET (STOKEDHANG ENDURO TEAM) BRAD EXTREME UAE-MTB TIWALA LANG MTB JUNKIES 2.0 METRO BIKERS HOT COGS BIKE STATION UAE EKMTB (EMIRATES AIRLINE STAFF MTB)

co Ro la Pa to W rit te n by M ar

Al Taween Enduro Nation was conceived by the regular riders of the park who then belong to different mountain biking groups in the UAE.

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MONTHLY

Horoscope DECEMBER 2020

When Mercury joins the sun and moves into fiery Sagittarius on December 1, your conversations become more exciting and daring.

Pushing the envelope is one of your favorite things to do.

Get in the last word. Say your piece. Tell a racy joke. There are so many fun ways for you to express yourself now!

As the Sagittarius sun trines your home planet Mars while it’s traveling through your powerful sign on the tenth, it’s time to go for the gold.

You’re extremely competitive now, and your motto is, “If you’re not first, you’re last.”

Picture yourself standing tall at the center of the podium, accepting your shiny, dazzling first-place medal!

Money-focused Venus enters thrill-seeking Sagittarius on December 15, encouraging you to take some big financial risks.

If a spontaneous opportunity comes up that seems too good to miss, go for it. With this adventurous pair it’s go big or go home!

Things calm down a bit when the sun enters ambitious Capricorn on the twentyfirst, and for the next month you’ll be working hard as you focus on your long-term goals.

What do you want that you don’t have? Make a list, check it twice for accuracy, and then get to work! Circle a Date: 31 March 2020 on your calendar and promise to buy yourself something if you meet your deadline. You do best with material incentives now.

Your dreams take the spotlight during the trine between your ruler Venus and hazy Neptune on December 5, and while it can be nice to get lost in a dreamworld, you might want to think about what you’re missing out on in real life. When your judgment is cloudy, you make bad decisions that often can’t be reversed.

The new moon and solar eclipse in sunny Sagittarius on the fourteenth can wash away mistakes and give you a clean slate, but acting too quickly can result in even bigger errors going forward.

Take the time to do this right, Taurus. What’s the rush?

Your ruler Venus partners with Sagittarius the next day, giving your love life a fun little boost of passion and adventure. If you’re able to keep an open mind, you could experience a life-changing event in the coming weeks.

Where your mind goes, the body follows.

Expansive Jupiter enters eccentric Aquarius on December 19, giving you the chance to expand your social circle, perhaps in an unusual way. You have your set ways of doing things, but you can’t help but be intrigued by something you’ve never seen or even heard of before. Advancements in technology now are absolutely amazing.

Communicative Mercury, your home planet, enters the Archer’s fiery realm on December 1, so the first three weeks of the month should be exciting regarding the way you interact with people. You have an optimistic outlook based on the spontaneous conversations you have with strangers, making you look forward to a brighter future. Optimism looks good on you!

There’s a subtle Venus-Neptune trine soon afterward on the fifth that puts you in somewhat of a dreamworld, especially when it comes to your finances.

Are you sure you can afford that flashy new car or expensive piece of art? Your vision is clouded now, which isn’t good news for your bank account.

The healer Chiron goes direct on December 15, at which point you should be ready to do some serious soul searching.

What’s been bothering you the most lately, Gemini? Don’t be afraid to dig deep and get to the heart of the matter.

Better days are ahead when you agree to confront (and conquer) the darker moments from your past.

The sun moves from adventurous Sagittarius into responsible Capricorn on the twenty-first, signaling that it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get some real work done. You aren’t afraid to get in there and dirty your hands now because you realize that the harder you work, the more you will be rewarded.

You come out of your shell quite a bit when talkative Mercury joins up with friendly and outgoing Sagittarius on December 1. Conversations with strangers lead you down some very interesting paths.

This transit might take you out of your comfort zone, but right now it’s all about expanding your horizons!

The new moon and solar eclipse, also in the sign of the Archer, arrive on the fourteenth, and while there is a general feeling of well-being surrounding this lunation, don’t be distracted by it and move too quickly. Care should be taken when making any final decisions about all types of long-term issues.

Romantic Venus enters fire sign Sagittarius the next day, putting some passion and, yes, uncertainty into your love life. You could experience an adventure of a lifetime in the coming weeks, as well as learn some of the most painful lessons ever. Sometimes you can’t have one without the other.

There’s a full moon in your emotional sign on December 29 that reminds you to take care of yourself, Cancer. You’ve been through a lot this month (and year), and you really deserve some pampering. Do something to bring out your femininity (like a mani-pedi) and have special conversations with the women in your life. Celebrate the amazing female lunar energy that’s surrounding you now.

When Mercury, the planet that guides our thoughts and conversations, moves out of introvert Scorpio and into extrovert Sagittarius on December 1, you can finally let the world know what’s on your mind! You’ve probably been keeping a secret that you’re dying to tell someone. If so, now is the time!

The ninth brings a square between your ruler sun, also in passionate Sagittarius, and dreamy Neptune that makes you stop what you’re doing, pause for just a moment, and think about whether you’re headed in the right direction. Thank goodness this aspect only happens once a year because it can dish out a pretty serious helping of self-doubt.

The new moon arrives on December 14—yes, also in fellow fire sign Sagittarius!— so you can’t help but think ahead to all the good things to come. Jumping the gun is one of the worst things you could do now, though. It’s good to be optimistic, but try not to count on things that haven’t happened yet.

The sun moves out of Sagittarius and into reasonable Capricorn on the twenty-first, reminding you of all the things that still aren’t crossed off your yearly to-so list. You don’t have a lot of time left to accomplish your goals, Leo, but you aren’t going to give up until you do!

Source: https://www.astrology.com/horoscope/monthly-overview/aries.html

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I AM KABAYAN 12.24.2020

www.iamkabayan.com You love talking to people even more than usual when Mercury moves into outgoing Sagittarius on December 1. You love controversial topics, and taboo discussions delight you. Is there anything you won’t discuss? Its very hard to offend you for the next few weeks as you attempt to expand your mind!

When expansive Jupiter leaves strict Capricorn for your more rebellious sign on the nineteenth, you should begin to see new opportunities for valuable personal growth. You aren’t afraid to express who you truly are or embrace others

Your tone is much more upbeat when communicative Mercury, your ruler, shifts from introverted, contemplative Scorpio to reactive, outgoing Sagittarius on December 1. If you’ve been dying to ask someone a question, do it now!

Conversations you have now are tinged with excitement.

Having butterflies in your stomach is a sign that something amazing is going to happen!

Healer Chiron goes direct on the fifteenth, offering you the chance of inner growth.

If you’ve been letting the past keep you from moving forward, this is your time to confront those painful issues that have been holding you back. Be brave, Virgo.

Expansive Jupiter partners with friendly, eccentric Aquarius on December 19, and both your ability to connect personally and network professionally should improve.

How willing are you to step out of your comfort zone to make new contacts? Technology presents you with a world of information. Now, what will you do with it?

The sun leaves fiery Sagittarius for more responsible Capricorn on the twenty-first, so your goals will be your major focus for the next month. Even though the holidays are coming up soon, you’re more focused on work than partying or spending time with family.

Hopefully, the long-term payoff will be worth whatever you have to sacrifice in the short term.

who are “weird” or “odd.” Actually, the stranger people are now, the more attracted you are to them.

There’s a Jupiter-Saturn conjunction on December 21 that occurs at the same time the sun moves into Capricorn and we experience the winter solstice. This conjunction, with both planets in your unique sign, can temper any resistance you might be feeling. Let progress and transformation wash over you like a much-needed shower that can cleanse you of your prejudices and other fears or types of hate.

And when the Cancer full moon arrives on the twenty-ninth, embrace its nurturing power. Take special care of the women in your life who have helped make you the person you are today. The female energy surrounding you feels warm and reassuring.

A magical trine between romantic Venus, your home planet, and illusion-filled Neptune on December 5 can be a wonderful, dreamy time.

You’re caught between fantasy and reality, and your mind is filled with visions of what life would be like if you were with the perfect lover or won the lottery. Dream big, Libra!

Venus moves into daring Sagittarius on the fifteenth, so for the next couple weeks you’re ready to take some pretty big risks in your romance and finance sectors. Acting on the spur of the moment might be exciting now, but the consequences of your spontaneous actions might not be known for some time.

Enjoy your adventures while they last!

The sun enters responsible Capricorn on December 21, welcoming in a month of hard work and firm commitments.

This is also the winter solstice, aka the darkest day of the year, so try to work fast to get things done. Your focus now is on your career and community, but your loved ones need attention, too.

The full moon in emotional Cancer arrives on the twenty-ninth, urging you to go wherever the feminine tide takes you. you’re surrounded by positive female energy now, so really listen to advice from the women in your life. An elderly mom, grandmother, neighbor, or co-worker has incredible wisdom.

When Mercury leaves secretive Scorpio and enters outgoing Sagittarius on December 1, you can let loose a little.

You aren’t as concerned about what other people think of what you have to say now, which is pretty freeing. Use this opportunity to learn more about other people than you would normally.

A trine between Venus and your home planet Neptune on the fifth lets you enjoy your sexy daydreams, but it can be disappointing when things don’t work out in real life the way you pictured them in

All bets are off when the sun trines your co-ruler Mars while in fiery Aries on December 10. Your power reaches new heights now as your confidence grows. Is there anyone who can resist your subtle magnetism? Probably not. Use this to get what you want before the magical energy from this positive aspect wears off.

Healing Chiron goes direct while in self-assured Aries on the fifteenth, at which point you will be able to reclaim some of the power you feel you’ve lost in the past. How long have you lived with this deep hurt, Scorpio? The deeper it is, the longer it will take to recover.

The sun enters serious Capricorn on December 21, putting your career at the top of your priority list. Do you want a raise? A promotion?

Are you still looking for that perfect company or position?

Set a detailed goal now with an obtainable deadline.

Expect to make serious progress on this goal within the month.

There’s an emotional full moon in Cancer on the twenty-ninth that puts you in the mood to nurture the people around you. If you’re a parent, hold your children close. If you want to become a parent, this is a good time to conceive or look into adoption alternatives. And as always, take good care of yourself so you can better take care of others.

Source: https://www.astrology.com/horoscope/monthly-overview/aries.html

Chatty Mercury enters your outspoken sign on December 1, so for most of the month you’re outgoing, friendly, and verbally adventurous. You love to talk to strangers in line at the store or start up random conversations with people on social media.

The more open your mind is, the more you learn. And expanding your mind via communicating with others is one of your favorite things now.

There’s also a new moon and solar eclipse in your fiery sign on the fourteenth, putting you in the path of all kinds of new ideas. This is a great time to join a brain trust or think tank, run for a position in community politics, or sign up to be an online reviewer to offer your opinion on a broad range of topics. As good as you are at starting things now, however, you’re not so great at finishing them!

Money-focused Venus also partners with your enthusiastic sign the next day, so the next three weeks will be a great time to rearrange some of your financial holdings. Take risks. Be bold. Consider the opportunities that other people don’t.

Lucky Jupiter, your ruler, enters progressive Aquarius on December 19, so a lot of your good fortune will be linked to your willingness to try new things, especially when it comes to technology. Gift your friends and family members with the latest gadgets and gizmos for the holidays and watch their eyes light up! And expect some very good karma in return.

your head. That’s the downside of living in a fantasy world, Pisces. It’s fun while it lasts, but it never lasts.

Money-focused Venus joins Mercury by pairing up with daring Sagittarius on December 15, encouraging you to take more financial risks than you normally might. If a good business opportunity crosses your path, consider investing.

Anything involving higher education, philosophy, or adventure should be a winner!

The moon is full in fellow water sign Cancer on the twenty-ninth, ending the month and year on an emotional note. You’ll feel closest to the females in your life now and will want to nurture them the way they nurtured you. Find a way to honor a woman who has been extremely important in your life.

The combination of Mercury and outspoken Sagittarius starting on December 1 can help you both personally and professionally. You aren’t afraid to say how you truly feel, and you have some very interesting opinions about a broad range of topics. You love to learn as part of the communication process, so you’re more open to other people’s perspectives now as well.

Chiron goes direct in powerful Aries on the fifteenth, so prepare yourself to do some heavy soul searching. There is big potential for personal growth now if you’re willing to face your demons, Capricorn.

The prospect of confronting painful memories isn’t fun, but don’t let that stop you from taking the first step now. Do it today, with Chiron as your biggest cheerleader.

The sun partners with your businesslike sign on December 21, so it’s time to get serious.

With the holidays right around the corner, this is your chance to get a lot of things crossed off your to-do list so you can relax and enjoy yourself in the coming weeks. Don’t be too proud to ask for help if you need it.

There’s a conjunction between Jupiter and your home planet Saturn in individualistic Aquarius on the twenty-first as well, which is one of the most important aspects of the year. The potential for transformation is huge now.

Look for major changes across the board.

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iamkbyn Spotlight Maychelle Alvior

HALDI FESTIVAL

By Maychelle Alvior IPA - International Photography Awards Honorable Mention OneShot: Movement

The festival of Vittal Birdev Yatra (Haldi Festival), which marks the birth anniversary of the community’s deity, Vittal Birdev Maharaj.The highlight of the festival is a ‘baba’, who arrives at the village to make predictions about the forthcoming farming and weather conditions for the village and accompanied with a procession with drums and traditional music.The festive mood was completely in groove with people throwing turmeric powder and dry coconut powder.

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I AM KABAYAN 12.24.2020

www.iamkabayan.com

I AM KABAYAN 12.24.2020

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iamkbyn Spotlight Maychelle Alvior Fisherman in Fujairah

<< LAKHTA CENTER Location: St. Petersburg, Russia The tallest building in Europe

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iamkbyn Spotlight Maychelle Alvior Apatani woman

The Apatanis or, as they call themselves the Tanis, trace their origin as a migratory tribe in the Apatani Plateau in Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Today they are settled in the Ziro Valley of the area.

I AM KABAYAN 12.24.2020

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iamkbyn Spotlight Mark Pasibigan In partnership with #NikonMEA organized by Sir Cesar Rocky Parroco.

Model: Sherizze Model: Irina Model: Zabina Hmua: Ivy Quep Peralta Gown Designer: Angel De Jesus #Nikonmeafashion #Nikonmea #DubaiClickerz #NikonZ5 #Couture #EditorialPortrait Follow me on my IG official photography account: https://www.instagram.com/ mpphotogs/

PHOTOGRAPHER

MARK PAGSIBIGAN Address: Baan Dusit, room 101, block C - 18, Al Asayel Street, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1, Hadaeq Mohammed Bin Rashid, Dubai. UAE Location: Dubai, UAE | Phone number: +971 55 584 9379

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SPEAK AND BE HEARD s Writing poetry ha e m sa e many of th positive effects as journaling, such as self enhanced sense of ay to w a awareness and nt life ca capture signifi events. share If you would like to ire sp in your writing and ur yo others through us words, please send at your piece mdelaben@gmail. ur com along with yoand name for credits t. acknowledgemen

Arts & Healing Frank Turner

Journey of the Magi Moses was old, a chill in his bones.

Falling apart, he knew in his heart that his time had come.

As he lay in his tent in the hot desert sands, he smiled at how he would never see his promised land.

He sang “I could have lived and died an Egyptian prince, I could have played safe, but in the end the journey’s brought joys that outweigh the pain.”

Odysseus sat tired and alone.

He’d always held out against all the doubts that he would come home.

But now he was here, his soul felt estranged.

His wife and his dog, his son and his Gods, everything changed.

He sang “I could have stayed and ruled as an Ithican prince, I could’ve played safe.

But in the end the journey’s brought joys that outweigh the pain.”

Balthazar rode for seven long years, eastwards and far, he followed his star, and it brought him here.

To a stable in ruins in some backwater town, to a virgin defiled, no king but a child, too small for a crown.

He sang “I could have lived with my Gods as a Persian prince, I could’ve played safe, but in the end the journey’s brought joys that outweigh the pain.”

Paupers and kings, princes and thieves, singers of songs, righters of wrongs, be what you believe.

So saddle your horse and shoulder your load, burst at the seams, be what you dream, and take to the road.

frank@frank-turner.com I AM KABAYAN 12.24.2020

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Travelogue Jessica Jayssy

The greater the trust within the couple, the greater the opening to share in love. ~ John Friend

I love

r e t t e l Openthe one to 30

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Vision: to bring Filipino Expats together and gain inspiration from one another.

Mission: We strive to reach out and connect Filipino Expats around the globe by showcasing their real-life stories.

IF YOU WANT TO CONTRIBUTE ON THIS MAGAZINE, EMAIL US AT: iamkbyn@gmail.com PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.iamkabayan.com

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