Fil-Am Who's Who Magazine, April 2024

fil-am who’S WHo

Our young

from New York to Silicon Valley

Paolo Villanueva

creative visionary

Paolo Villanueva presents his project Tales of the Aswang VR. See pages 12 - 16.

The Editor A Word from Oliver Oliveros

“Where flowers bloom, so does hope” – Lady Bird Johnson

Spring has arrived, so take a moment to step outside, pause, and appreciate the flowers!

As we welcome the new season, we invite you, our esteemed readers, to delve into the latest “Fil-Am Who’s Who” magazine issue. Here, we celebrate the accomplishments and struggles of Filipino Americans, both great and small, together.

We’re thrilled to feature young creative director Paolo Villanueva in this issue. His project EducationXR, which provides training modules for leading medical institutions and device manufacturers, has positively impacted critical medical procedures. Additionally, his immersive video game “Tales of the Aswang,” which will soon be available on Apple Vision Pro, pays tribute to Filipino folklore and legends.

Paolo’s story excerpt says, “[His] interest in creative technology and design, which led him to his current role as a creative director, comes from his realization this field perfectly combines his lifelong passion for liberal arts and technology. This unique intersection has always been his playground—where the limitless realms of imagination meet the tangible world of technological innovation.” Read more on pages 13-16.

This issue also features our beloved Consul General Senen Mangalile, who has been serving the Fil-Am community, particularly in the New York tri-state area, for over a year now. His steadfast leadership has been honed through his previous posts in Turkey, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland.

ConGen Mangalile believes, “By working together and combining our strengths, we can shine an even brighter light on our community’s great accomplishments and massive contribution to the fabric of this society.”

Also, our fabulous ladies at the International Women Artists, who empower their peers through creative collaborations and education in the arts, are spotlighted in our Executive Editor Myrna Gutierrez’s “Organizations We Love” column.

Springtime is off to a good start. May these carefully curated stories warm your hearts and inspire you to go out and make a difference.

“Fil-Am Who’s Who” has always been open to collaborations, news tips, and a little feedback in the mail. Do drop us a line or two at filamwhoswho@gmail.com.

Knights of Rizal State of New York

Milestones & Myrna Gutierrez

Moments

Photos courtesy of KOR Astoria

New York Consul General Senen Mangalile Service Wendell Gaa At Your

For over a year now New York’s amiable and genial Consul General Senen Mangalile has serviced the Northeast U.S. FilipinoAmerican community with his steadfast leadership and dedication to addressing the various needs which come with his position. For indeed throughout the past years, the city of New York and surrounding states have experienced both glorious and challenging moments of such magnitude which require the attention of a lead diplomat with the right credentials and standing to help provide the necessary guidance to navigate the community through both familiar and uncharted waters. Most fortunately, Consul General Mangalile (or Congen for short) has by now proven that he is just the right man for the oftentimes demanding task in this post-pandemic era.

His professional record speaks for itself. Congen Mangalile arrived in New York to assume his post on January 6, 2023. NYC now holds the distinct honor of being his very first post as an official head of a diplomatic mission, although he had a brief tour of duty as Chargé d’affaires of the Philippine Embassy in Ankara, Turkey (now officially called Türkiye where coincidentally this writer has been currently assigned for 3 years now), and it was also there where he had served as Chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Ankara Committee.

Prior to arriving in the Big Apple, and apart from his short stint in Ankara, he had been assigned in various capacities at the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka, Japan; Philippine Embassy in London, United Kingdom; and the Philippine Embassy in Berne, Switzerland. At the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) home office in Manila, he had served at the Office of ASEAN Affairs, Office of Protocol, Office of Presidential Protocol, Office of American Affairs and the Office of Consular Affairs.

Each assignment provided him key lessons which were essential to his evolution as a seasoned diplomat. “My detail to the Office of Presidential Protocol when I was a junior officer offered me a unique perspective to see how government operates at the highest level and trained me to pay particular attention to the finest details as they could sometimes have far larger consequences,” he says. He further recalled how during his time at the Office of American Affairs when he was the Director of the US Division while concurrently serving as the Director of the Canada Division, he was given invaluable opportunities for translating policy into concrete activities and tangible results. At the Consulate General in Osaka, he acquired eight years of consular work with a simultaneous role as Administrative Officer, which had prepared him for assuming larger responsibilities which lay ahead.

On a personal level, he has felt blessed how each diplomatic posting of his has immensely helped broaden his social and cultural horizons. “My exposure to the rich culture of Japan and the colorful tapestry of British society has enriched my soul immensely,” he proudly beams.

Among the most significant highlight moments of his entire diplomatic career thus far has been being elected unopposed as President of the Consular Corps in London, which happens to be the oldest organization of its kind in the world, because “it was a mark of respect from one’s peers,” he recalls. Another proud moment for him was having introduced significant improvements in the way consular services were delivered during his tenure at the DFA Office of Consular Affairs at a time when the Philippines, as with many other countries, was just newly emerging from all the global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. “But there are many small victories throughout my career, particularly those achieved while helping our kababayan, that provide context and meaning to what I do,” he adds.

After completing his first year as the Philippine Consul General in New York, a surprise diplomatic posting for which he is most grateful, his chief priorities are to ensure that the Consulate General plays a huge role in enhancing economic relations between the Philippines and the U.S.; engage with the younger generation of Filipino-Americans so that they will remain connected to their rich heritage and the Philippines’ emerging future; and to constantly discover paths toward improving the way the Consulate delivers its services to the community and beyond.

A proud native of Bulacan province, he was born in Manila and raised in the city of Baliwag, and is a resident in the city of Malolos. He attended the Immaculate Conception Seminary where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. He then went on to attain his Master of Science in Diplomacy, Statecraft and Foreign Policy at Loughborough (pronounced “Luff-Brah”) University in England. He also pursued his graduate studies at Ateneo de Manila University and had a brief sojourn at the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Law and took up various executive courses.

Congen Mangalile is happily blessed with a family consisting of his wife Yen and eldest daughter Pao who are living with him now in New York, and younger daughter Betsy who is currently pursuing her university studies. Among his favorite hobbies are taking long and scenic drives, reading history books, culinary experimentation in the kitchen and bingeing on a good TV series.

As for his message to the Northeast U.S. Fil-Am community, his remarks are: “It’s been a little over a year since I joined you and from Day 1, I’ve maintained that what we have here is a partnership. By working together and combining our strengths, we can shine an even brighter light on the great accomplishments of our community and its massive contribution to the fabric of this society. Let’s put up a tent big enough for all of us to gather under, with a place for everyone to feel accepted, respected and valued.”

Photo

Very Important Pinoy Tour

Philippine Center, New York City

L-R: Consul General Senen Mangalile, Jose C Clemente III (Rajah Tours President), Syed Shahid (PAL NY Gen Mgr), and Francisco Hilario M Lardizabal (Tourism Attache)

University of the Philippines Alumni & Friends Rondalla

L-R: Rudy Reyes, Leon De Lara, and Lee Clemente

Vice Consul Cathe Ryne Denice S. Aguilar

Photos by: Rolan Gutierrez

Media Hour with the Consul General

Photos by: Rolan Gutierrez

• JCI North Jersey Awards and Induction of Officers

• Fil-Am Press Club of New York (FAPCY NY) Election of Officers & Board Members

JCI North Presidemt-elect Rachel Beth Tamayo

FAPCNY 2024-2025

Presidemt-elect Momar Visaya

Awards and induction of officers took place inside the Jersey City City Hall.

FAPCNY members

Front row L-R: Marivir Montebon, Lindy Rosales, Don Tagala, and Momar Visaya

Middle row L-R: Marilyn Abalos, Fernando Mendez, Richie Rillera Felix Manuel. Myrna Gutierrez, and Rolan Gutierrez

Top row L-R: Cesar Loverita, Dave Llavanes Jr, and Troi Santos

Photos by: Rolan Gutierrez

Fashion Arts Austism Benefits

UNITED NATIONS, NYC

Autism Hearts Foundation volunteers

Talented autistic artists

Photos by: Rolan Gutierrez

Dr. Erlinda Borromeo, D.M. President,Autism Hearts Foundation

Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo, Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the United Nations (center in dark suit) with supporters

Fashion Arts Austism Benefits

UNITED NATIONS, NYC

Photos by: Rolan Gutierrez

Paolo Villanueva

Merges Creative Vision and Technology

By: Jude Cartalaba

“The illiterate of the future are not those who can’t read or write but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.” – Alvin

Toffler

Originally from Butuan City, Philippines, Paolo Villanueva, a creative director and digital storyteller, now resides in the United States.

He was born to an accountant and a business manager of a family business selling and crafting jewelry in Butuan City. A lot of his creative inspiration came from his mother’s side from Tarlac and Meycauyan, particularly his grandmother, who was very creative and introduced him to good food, art, and using a cassette tape to record sounds and the world around him, which later evolved to using mediums such as photography and film.

Villanueva confessed he only realized his calling as a creative director and digital storyteller until later in life. He said, “... because everyone was trying to tell me what I should be doing based on what I’m involved in.” He constantly draws inspiration from the possibilities that emerge “when technology is applied with a designer’s mindset.”

“It’s not just about leveraging the latest tools or platforms; it’s about rethinking how we approach problems and envision solutions. This involves a deep reflection on the design disciplines and the ethical implications of our creations, ensuring what we build is innovative but also responsible and inclusive.”

His Early Beginnings

Villanueva’s journey into media and storytelling began at an impressively young age when he was honored with the prestigious Outstanding Campus Journalist of the Philippines award. This early recognition showcased his innate storytelling talent and solidified his path toward a career in creative media, a path he continues to tread with passion and dedication. As early as four years old, he loved to read books and play with toys, and he would often [be seen] creating large-scale dioramas of action figures telling stories based on their poses and positions.

“I would explain the story to whoever saw it and then change it the next day to continue its progression. I would also be seen reenacting scenes from Disney movies verbatim with my baby sister and doing them repeatedly until the choreography was proper.

“I started photography when I was 10 in 2001. I stole my mother’s camera because they told me I didn’t know how to use a camera, and I wanted to prove them wrong. I won my first award, the Outstanding Campus Journalist of the Philippines, and kept winning after that.”

Video games also introduced him to new forms of storytelling. “I got to see how stories can be told through interaction. Metal Gear Solid, Silent Hill, and Syphon Filter taught me much about how interactivity can help tell stories.”

In sixth grade, he wrote a set of stories with friends and learned Macromedia Flash and 3D animation software, 3DS Max 6, to try and create scenes from the stories they wrote together. It was

never really completed, but the lessons he learned from different storytelling methods were valuable and are what he still carries today.

It was at Ateneo de Davao University that he laid the groundwork for his future achievements. He spearheaded a student startup, Samahan Creative Team (SCT), which focused on visual effects, motion graphics, and video ads, demonstrating an early penchant for blending technology and creativity. As the creative director, he also created and ran the internal branding, which is the Institutional Communications and Promotions Office of the university called the iCommp. It handled all communications, branding, broadcast, and marketing at the different schools of Ateneo de Davao with the blessing of its president.

He received a Dean’s scholarship at Parsons School of Design in New York and graduated with top honors. It was considered the bedrock of his creative brilliance and the impetus that made him such a significant leap. It also molded him into a globally renowned institution for design. He not only blossomed and excelled academically, but he also imbibed the ethos of a school that prides itself on fostering creative and critical thinking.

His exceptional GPA of 3.91 and the honor of delivering the commencement speech reflected his academic dedication and creative prowess.

Making it BIG as a Virtual Realist

Villanueva’s acquired skills as a filmmaker, video editor, theatre, 3D animator, photographer, computer scientist, and creative director propelled him to where he is now.

In New York City, he worked with Havas Media/NYC Media Lab, where he led the development of an augmented reality app exploring Governors Island’’s climate change initiatives.

At Fjord/Accenture, Villanueva led a service design rapid prototyping research project, extending immersive experience techniques in retail spaces. These experiences in New York honed his creative technology and design skills

Photos courtesy of Paolo Villanueva

Paolo showcases his projects in Ateneo de Davao University

Professionally, he was immersed in Virtual Reality as a creative director at Heizenrader, a company based in Silicon Valley.

As a creative director at Heizenrader, a Utah-based company and also in Silicon Valley, Villanueva played a pivotal role in developing EducationXR. This unique platform is at the forefront of transforming educational paradigms, crafting V.R. training and learning experiences tailored for prestigious medical institutions across the U.S. His leadership and innovation have revolutionized the field and opened new doors for institutions and technical colleges to create their own learning experiences without the need for coding.

“Our collaborations extend to leading medical device manufacturers, such as Medtronic, Siemens, GE, Philips, Edwards Lifesciences and Mass General Hospital.”

He’s thrilled they’re on the cusp of introducing EducationXR to a broader audience through the upcoming Apple Vision Pro headset.

On a personal creative front, he was the visionary behind an immersive video game, Tales of the Aswang, inspired by the rich tapestry of Filipino mythology. This project was showcased in New York City from 2017 to 2019 at various events, capturing audiences’ imaginations.

“I’m excited about the potential of expanding this universe and bringing new content to the Apple Vision Pro headset. Discover more about this venture at Steam and on my website, ‘Tales of the Aswang,’” he continued, beaming with pride.

Creative Technology Leads to Creative Directing

He has worked as a producer at Sabotage, an outsource producer at MeroMero Games, and a lead-level game designer and creative director at Cinemoi America LLC. Each role showcased his multifaceted skills, from initiating original game designs to leading large multidisciplinary teams producing immersive experiences.

“My fascination with creative technology and design, which has led me to my current path as a creative director, stems from my realization that this field perfectly encapsulates my lifelong journey at the crossroads of liberal arts and technology. This unique intersection has always been my playground—a space where the boundless realms of imagination meet the tangible world of technological innovation,” he said.

“Reflecting on my previous experiences, from early storytelling with action figures to exploring the narrative depths of video games and the expressive potential of photography. My journey has been finding new ways to marry content with form, narrative with interaction, and aesthetics with functionality.

“Creative technology and design have provided me with a framework to continue this exploration and push its boundaries further.”

As he navigates his projects, he aims to continue exploring how technology can enhance our creative expressions and how design can shape the future of technology. This dual focus on innovation and ethics serves as a guiding principle, reminding him that creations should push the envelope regarding what is technically possible and contribute positively to society’s cultural and social fabric.

“My fascination with creative technology and design is driven by a desire to create meaningful, impactful work that leverages the best of both worlds to enrich the human experience.”

Confidence in Filipino Talent

Villanueva’s professional canvas is vast, spanning roles that intertwine technology and creativity. His stint at Silicon Valley was a new chapter in his career as a creative director transitioning from New York. His role at Heizenrader/EducationXR in Silicon Valley, spearheading projects involving Filipino peers integrating technology with education, particularly virtual and augmented reality, impacts institutions globally.

“The presence and impact of Filipinos in Silicon Valley is a testament to their global competitiveness and inherent capacity to thrive in the world’s premier hub for innovation and technology. This affirmation goes beyond mere optimism; it is grounded in a rich history of Filipino contributions, from the agricultural roots of the valley to pivotal roles in technological advancements that have shaped the modern world. Notably, the achievements of Dado Banatao from Cagayan in the Philippines, who played a critical role in developing the first logic chip for IBM and the personal computer, epitomize Filipinos’ profound influence on the tech industry.

“My odyssey to Silicon Valley has been marked by numerous engagements with the heart of innovation, from participating in developer conferences and startup events to various corporate ventures.

“The allure of Silicon Valley, however, extends beyond professional endeavors. The region represents a beacon of innovation, where ideas flourish, and the impossible becomes tangible. Family ties, with in-laws nearby, further deepened my connection to the area. Yet, the Valley’s relentless pursuit of innovation truly resonates with my aspirations.”

He added that the Filipino diaspora in Silicon Valley is a vibrant community characterized by its contributions to the tech industry and its resilience, adaptability, and the unique blend of skills and perspectives it brings. With their innate creativity, strong work ethic, and collaborative spirit, Filipinos are naturally equipped to navigate and excel in Silicon Valley’s dynamic and competitive environment.

“My journey is one narrative among many, illustrating the broader trend of Filipino talent making significant inroads in the global tech scene. It reflects a larger story of how Filipinos, through their ingenuity, perseverance, and passion for innovation, are not just participating in the technological revolution but are at the forefront of driving it.

“As the tech world continues to evolve, Filipino contributions will undoubtedly remain integral to the tapestry of innovation that defines Silicon Valley, showcasing Filipinos’ global competitiveness and potential to shape the future.”

At the Brooklyn Army Terminal Launch 2

With wife Sari

Paolo with his Philippine creative team

At Indiecade NYC

Virtual Reality training module launch for Geo Dimensioning at El Camino College, California

Trade show booth by Aeneo Senior High School

Experiencing the VR

Paolo delivers his graduation speech at Parsons NYC

Paolo with New York City skyline behind

Paolo with coworkers at Heizenrader

Paolo manning the exhibition booth at Games for Change NYC

Patron at Tales of Aswang Showcase

We OrganizationsLove

Myrna Gutierrez

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CommunityCalendar

May 5 Rex Smith Concert

Catch “Simply Rex Smith” on May 5, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., at Sheraton LaGuardia East Hotel, 135-20 39th Ave, Queens, NY 11354. Get your tickets ($75-$150) from Nel (347-738-3025) or Tony (917) 930-0223.

May 18 Mrs. Kalayaan

Philippine Independence Day with the Philippine Independence Day Council (PIDCI), Mrs. Kalayaan will be held on May 18, 2024, at 7:30 p.m., at Astoria World Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd, Queens, NY 11102. Please Zelle your donation ($130) to treasurer@pidci.org. You may also contact Lea (917) 6206179, Aida (646) 371-5425, or Betty (856) 448-2442.

May 25 UNIFFIED 10th Anniversary Event

United Federation of Fil-Am Educators, Inc (UNIFFIED) will celebrate its 10th anniversary on May 25, 2024, from 12:005:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn – 160A Frontage Rd, Newark, NJ 07114. Please get in touch with Ronie (718) 213-2399, Rosalinda (646) 338-4203, Ernesto (718) 413-3114, Justeena (646) 670-0812, Catalina (646) 934-0170, Ria (718) 414-4041, Jenny (201) 407-2104 or Florante (917) 399-9208.

This is the first time I’m using an iPhone for this corner. iPhone has several features to do protrait shots.

My beautiful model here Christine Morales already knew how to pose.

For this photo, I set the photo mode to PORTRAIT and set the photo lighting to STAGE LIGHT from the default NATURAL LIGHT.

May 25 PAFCOM Grand Marshal Gala and Coronation Ball

Philippine American Friendship Community, Inc. (PAFCOM) will honor the 2024 Grand Marshal and Honorary Marshals and crown all the muses on May 25, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., at the Marriott Liberty Hotel, 1 Hotel Rd, Newark, NJ 07114. For tickets ($130), contact Joyce (848) 467-0269, Helen (201) 920-9441, Shiran (917) 216-0343, or Maricar (201) 936-5208.

June 2

126th Commemoration of the Philippine Independence Day

Celebrate the 126th Commemoration of Philippine Independence Day with the Philippine Independence Day Council (PIDCI) on June 2, 2024, along 38th and Madison Avenue. Enjoy this day with family and friends from 11:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.

June 30

Pistahang Bayan 2024

Enjoy this day with games, music, and food, celebrating the 126th anniversary of the Philippine Independence and Nationhood on June 30, 2024. Venue to be determined.

Advanced Cardiac Care

Dr. Michael L. Avaricio