A YEAR IN REFLECTION
As we approach the close of another year, it’s a natural time to pause and reflect on the journey we’ve shared together. 2024 has been a year of growth, change, and challenges. From the latest trends to the personal narratives that connect us all, we’ve sought to bring you content that not only informs but also inspires our readers and “kababayans” across europe and beyond. This year also marks 15 years since the first publication of Roots & wings. we are immensely grateful for your continued support and engagement. whether you’ve been with us since the very first issue or joined us more recently, your presence has helped make our community vibrant and diverse. we look forward to continuing to share more success stories of our kababayans across europe, cultural events, growing businesses and much more.
as we step into the new year, we continue to be a platform that inspires curiosity, ignites meaningful discussions, and highlights the stories that truly matter. Thank you for being a part of our year. Looking forward to all the untold stories and exciting possibilities that 2025 will bring.
Wishing you and your families a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy, Prosperous New Year!
Happy reading!
Rebecca Urbančík Garcia
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roots & wings filipino magazine in europe published by rachel publishingco. stockholm, sweden 2009-2024
Myla Arceno country editor, uk
Gloria Hernandez Grejalde country editor, philippines
Alfonso Joaquin De Jesus De Vera Social Media Editor Country Editor, austria
Jennifer Fergesen copy editor country editor, norway
Anton Miguel D. De Vera Web Editor, Country Editor, austria
Donna Patricia Manio lifestyle country editor, philippines
Mye Mulingtapang country editor, italy
Mary Hyacinth Reguindin-Tondo country editor, uk
Donna Avellana Künzler country editor, switzerland
Ieth Inolino Idzerda associate editor country editor, the netherlands
Ralph Anthony Chan managing editor country editor, Austria
Rebecca Urbancik Garcia editor-in-chief country editor, czech Republic
Siobhan Doyle country editor, UK
Maria Josephine Renker Country Editor, Germany
Dulce Lada Country Editor, Spain
Cipriano “Zip” De Guzmán Jr. country editor, Luxembourg
Dennis Mana-ay country editor, france
Fideliz (Dee) Apilado country editor, france
Maria Gutehall country editor, sweden
Luz Bergersen Country Editor advisory council, norway
Aimee Alado -Blake legal counsel, uk
Rachel Hansen Founder advisory council, sweden
Apiong Bagares art director/ layout, philippines
Contents
COVER STORY
1st Issue of Roots & wings p5
FEATURE
From Pintados to the Cover of Vogue: the Filipino Tattoo Renaissance p9
minerva miclat martinsen, aviation & maritime Lawyer p13
Inviting the world to Discover the Philippines Through oFw Hospitality p17
back to my Filipino Roots p20
From Humble beginnings to barber extraordinaire p22
Filipino Youth shine in Robotics on world stage p26
one nation awards UK p28
DIRECTORY
Philippine embassies in europe p30
ART
Changing the Philippine art scene: Contemporary, Distinctive and Urban, Featuring Three Filipino Pop art artists p32
Rachel Duenas – a Filipina Visual storyteller and Impressionist Painter, Paris art exhibition, Carrousel du Louvre october 2024 p44
PEOPLE
The winning streak of our own Roots & wings Country editor p47
From manila to stockholm: a Journey through Journalism, Resilience, and Identity p48
a Filipino nurse in Finland Receives the Prestigious Queen silvia nursing award for Innovation in Dementia Care p53
1ST ISSUE OF
Wings Roots
&
The first issue of Roots&Wings was published 15 years ago, or to be exact in September 2009. We asked eight kababayans in various parts of Europe back then to share with us what comes to their mind when they think of Philippine culture, and what is their favorite destination in the Philippines and why? After 15 years, their answers remain timeless.
We wish our Roots & Wings readers a happy 15th year anniversary. May all our roots continue to grow deeper and stronger and our wings continue to soar higher and wider.
FROM PINTADOS TO THE COVER OF VOGUE
AUSTRIA
Text by Charmaine Taus
Lakay Olasic of Kalinga with his binibiking chest tattoo, which he earned by headhunting during the Japanese invasion. — Edward Adrian-Vallance via Lane Wilcken.
TTattooing isn’t a modern trend. It’s an enduring global tradition. From Ötzi the Iceman, the 5,000-year-old mummy who bears over 60 tattoos, to the Filipino pintados, body art has long been woven into human history. Filipino tattoos, in particular, are deeply rooted in the broader austronesian culture, which shares Pacific mythologies, including the demigod maui seen in Disney’s “moana.” as we delve into Filipino tattooing, we uncover how it connects not only to local identity but to a larger web of cultural traditions across the austronesian region.
Yesterday: The Tattoo Tradition of the Pintados
In pre-colonial Philippines, the Visayan people, later called pintados by the spanish, adorned their bodies with tattoos symbolizing status, tribal affiliation, and war accomplishments. These marks were far more than decoration; they embodied a warrior’s achievements, worn proudly as part of their identity. This practice was not unique to the Philippines. across the austronesian region, from Taiwan to new Zealand, tattoos served simi-
Centenarian Apo Whang-Od on the cover of Vogue Philippines, April 2023. —Artu Nepomucen
lar roles, often involving animal motifs like birds or snakes. as we explore variations in Filipino tattooing, we see that even within the Philippines, different regions had distinct traditions. In the Visayas, tattoos were called patik or batok, while in Luzon, we use batek or buri. beyond decoration, tattoos often provided spiritual protection. symbolism was crucial—centipedes represent
defense, snakes equal rebirth, and birds symbolize godly guidance. Tattoo placement also carried meaning: chest tattoos represented bravery, while lower abdomen tattoos in manobo women signaled fertility.
an intriguing aspect of this practice was the use of calamansi thorns in tattooing. more than just tools, the thorn’s scent was believed to
ward off evil spirits, adding another layer of protection. early Filipinos literally embedded their skin with a combination of ink and spiritual safeguard.
Today: Ancient Methods, Modern Interpretations
The methods and vocabulary of tattooing in ancient Philippines were as symbolic as the designs themselves. Traditional hand-tapping, done with a mallet, bone/ thorn/bamboo needles, and charcoal-based ink, was more than its technicalities. It was a communal event accompanied by chanting, meditation, and offerings to ancestors (alay sa mga anito).
Fast forward to today: Filipino tattooing is experiencing a revival. apo whang- od, a centenarian and traditional mambabatok from the Kalinga tribe, graced the cover of Vogue Philippines in 2023, becoming a beacon of this re-
Charmaine Taus during one of her Pintados workshops in Vienna, Austria. — Rob Detoyato
Tattooing kit of Lakay Jacob Angnganai of Lubo Tanudan: mallet, L-shaped hafted needle, bowl, and string to draw straight lines.
— Prof. Analyn SalvadoreAmores via Lane Wilcken
newed interest. Her fame has drawn tourists from around the world to her village in buscalan for hand-tapped tattoos. It has also sparked debates about the commercialization of what were once sacred tribal markings.
as modern interpretations of traditions evolve, I’d ask: can something so steeped in
history and spirituality survive in today’s world?
Tomorrow: The Future of Filipino Tattoos
while the original purposes of Filipino tattoos—such as marking victories in headhunting—have faded, the art form remains a powerful symbol of identity, pride, and cultural
heritage. whether applied by a traditional master like whangod or in a modern studio using machines, they serve as living links to a collective ancestry.
The global resurgence of Filipino tattooing, both in the Philippines and abroad, is being led by artists like grace Palicas, whang- od’s grandniece, and Fil-am tattooer Lane wilcken. These artists not only continue the hand-tapping techniques, but also focus on educating younger generations about their cultural roots.
In this growing movement, some artists blend traditional motifs with modern elements: baybayin script, the eight-point Filipino sun, and Polynesian patterns. Yet, this surge in popularity raises important questions about cultural/lateral appropriation. after all, not every tribal design is simply aesthetic; many carry deep meanings that deserve respect.
as the spotlight shines on Filipino tattooing, the focus shifts from revival to preservation. How can artists balance honoring ancient practices while embracing creative modernity? This tension between tradition and innovation is at the heart of the conversation today
Filipino tattoos are more than just ink on skin. They are living history, carrying the stories of the pintados into the present. as the Filipino tattoo renaissance continues to grow, these designs stand as a testament to the resilience of cultural practices that have endured colonization and modernization.
Charmaine Taus, a Manila-born artist based in Vienna, blends her Filipino heritage with global influences in her visual art and tattooing. With a background in literature, graphic novels, and postcolonial theory, her work explores queerness, cultural identity, and social issues. She co-founded sige!, a Filipino arts network in Vienna, while creating personalized, meaningful art for her clients. She also hosts tattoo history lectures/workshops.
Charmaine Taus Harold Khan
MINERVA MICLAT MARTINSEN
Aviation & Maritime Lawyer
Words by Luz Bergersen
Roots & wings proudly presents minerva miclat martinsen, a Filipina aviation and maritime lawyer from apalit, Pampanga, who is now based in norway. Her inspiring journey takes her from being a widowed attorney in the Philippines to qualifying as a UK solicitor and Certified Fraud examiner with dual master’s degrees in law. minerva’s professional and academic accomplishments, marked by numerous honours and awards, powerfully exemplify that with unwavering dedication and determination, the pursuit of one’s dreams is achievable even at a later point in life.
A passion for doing great work
minerva’s journey has been filled with challenges, particularly in rebuilding her career in norway, where the legal system differs from that of the Philippines. as a lawyer with a senior position and education from the Philippines, she recognised that pursuing her career overseas would require enhancing her credentials with new knowledge and qualifications. at the age of 53, minerva completed her master’s degree at the University of southampton, graduating at the top of her maritime law class and receiving four prestigious awards: (1) The Clyde & Company Prize for best Performance in the LLm in maritime Law; (2) The Quadrant Chambers Prize for best Performance in the Taught aspect of the master’s in maritime Law; (3) The gard’s Prize for best Performance in marine Insurance; and (4) The Dean’s List award for outstanding academic achievements.
minerva’s academic and professional journey is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. Despite the demands of a full-time job, she graduated with honours from the ateneo de manila University in makati. Her legal career spanned about ten years
in the courts of makati, during which she took on progressively more challenging roles. she later transitioned into the aviation industry, where she served for fourteen years, first with Philippine airlines (PaL) and then with emirates group security in Dubai.
minerva has broken glass ceilings in traditionally male-dominated fields such as investigation and litigation. she has consistently demonstrated exceptional skills and dedication, ultimately rising to the position of Head of Litigation in PaL’s Legal affairs. additionally, she broke ground as the only female investigator in emirates group security’s Investigation Unit during her tenure. Her role as an Investigation officer for emirates group culminated in receiving a na Jm excellence award, which recognised her efforts in drafting a security manual designed to protect the group and its patrons from theft and property damage at Dubai International airport.
minerva also holds a master’s degree in Information & Communication Technology Law from the University of oslo, where she received an a for her
master’s thesis, which focused on the privacy implications of the Us Cloud act and the eU e-evidence Proposal in cross-border investigations. Her assessors described her work as ”truly exceptional, one of the best, if not the best ever graded, and should be published.” Her master’s thesis in maritime law, which compared the assured’s disclosure obligations under the UK’s relevant insurance laws and nordic marine Insurance Plan, was also graded with distinction.
In addition to her master’s degrees, minerva earned a bachelor’s degree in Political science from the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City. although she did not practice professionally, she is also a qualified nurse in the United states, holding a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the Philippine College of Health sciences.
after a brief stint as a senior Claims executive for gard—a leading international provider of marine insurance and risk management solutions to the maritime industry—minerva is now back in private practice, where she engages in significant pro bono work for clients in norway and beyond.
Life’s challenges
minerva became a widow at the age of 37, prompting her to take on the full responsibility of raising her two daughters, margarita Paz and mira Patricia, both surnamed Capulong. at that time, margarita was just 7 years old, and mira was only 3. Fate intervened when she later met and married martin edvin martinsen, a norwegian who had previously served as a Chief engineer for
Minerva with her friends and classmates at the University of Southampton, UK
Minerva with one of her professors at the University of Southampton, UK
the Royal norwegian navy and is currently a sales manager for DesmI norway, a technical production company serving the maritime and related industries. In 2015, minerva and her daughters, who are now 23 and 20 years old, moved to norway.
Life abroad
Pursuing law or a related discipline in foreign countries presents significant challenges due to differences in legal systems, distinct academic qualifications, and language barriers, which is also true for norway. minerva found herself in a peculiar situation; although she was willing to take on a more junior position, her experience led her to believe that companies in the country preferred younger lawyers with less extensive backgrounds. In the midst of uncertainty and the possibility of struggling to rebuild her career, minerva continued to pursue additional
qualifications and went back to school—not only for her career but also to fulfill aspirations she had set aside when she was younger. minerva explains, “I was a single mom in the Philippines, and I did not have the luxury of time and resources to pursue other interests aside from work.”
after moving to norway, she qualified as a solicitor in the UK and later became a Certified Fraud examiner in 2016. In 2020, she earned her first master’s degree from the University of oslo. Following the pandemic, she decided to take a master’s degree in maritime law in the UK in 2022. Despite receiving a number of job invitations from recruiters in the UK and the potential for a more promising career there, minerva chose to return
to norway to be closer to her family.
In norway, she landed a job as a senior Claims executive for gaRD. although her time with gaRD was short, she is extremely grateful to the company for giving her work opportunities and the chance to learn from her team. while she hopes to use her competence in a more suitable legal role in the future, she feels content in all aspects of her life, including her career status. she also finds happiness being an active member of the soroptimists arendal- grimstad Club, a women’s group promoting the interests of women and children through education and various outreach activities in and out of norway.
Plans for the future
minerva shares, “at this point in my life, money and position only come second. what is more important to me is finding happiness in sharing my skills and leaving an impact on others, in and outside of the workplace, no matter at what stage it is, while appreciating the things that really matter in life, like being close to a loving home, enjoying the company of well-meaning friends, and living a decent life. That said, I never lost my passion for doing great work, because if not, I would not have gone through the trouble of returning to school and enhancing my skills.”
Together with her husband, minerva eventually plans to go back to the Philippines. she does not discount the possibility of working in
Minerva with her husband and two daughters
Minerva addressing her batchmates in nursing during the Philippine College of Health Sciences’ 17th commencement exercises in November 2006
the civil service or the judiciary, where her legal career began. she wishes to become more actively involved in the church and the community, particularly in advocating for women’s and children’s rights.
WORDS OF WISDOM
To Rawmags readers: I hope that my journey inspires people not to give up on their dreams, to work hard, and never forget that all comes from god.
To the euro-Pinoy, particularly those who may be contemplating a legal career: Practicing law can be a challenging profession. However, nothing is insurmountable for those with strong discipline and passion. aspiring lawyers should work hard and be prepared for high-pressure situations, as the legal profession requires extensive reading and writing.
To those considering returning to school at an older age: It all depends on what you want to achieve. If you’re pursuing further education for personal fulfillment, age doesn’t really matter. However, if your aim is career advancement or using education as a pathway to new opportunities, being an older student can present challenges. The pressure to excel and secure a desired profession can be overwhelming, and balancing family responsibilities with learning school lessons can be more difficult for older students.
on the other hand, mature students often have clearer goals, greater discipline, and richer life experiences, all of which greatly enhance the learning process. In other words, success ultimately de-
pends on the ability to leverage personal strengths and turn limitations into advantages. most importantly, I always emphasize the power of prayer because, in the end, our lives are in the hands of the one who holds the universe, and that is god.
Rawmags thanks minerva miclat martinsen for sharing her precious time and insights
with us and our readers. we wish her and her family all the best and god’s blessings now and in the times ahead.
Minerva with her friends in Norway
Minerva with her husband and parents
INVITING THE WORLD TO DISCOVER THE PHILIPPINES THROUGH OFW HOSPITALITY
Words by Mye Mulingtapang
The bisita, be my guest (bbmg) initiative, launched by the Department of Tourism (DoT) in collaboration with the Department of migrant workers and the
Tourism Promotions board, aims to encourage Filipinos— especially overseas Filipino workers (oFws)—to invite their foreign friends and relatives to experience the beauty of the Philippines.
Through this program, sponsors can win various prizes, such as gadgets, travel packages, and cash awards. both visitors and their sponsors enjoy exclusive discounts at select local establishments
The Philippine Embassy in Rome and the Philippine Consulate General in Milan came together to host a day-long interactive event celebrating the launch of the #BisitaBeMyGuest program and the #LoveThePhilippines brand. The event showcased the best of the Philippines’ tourism campaigns, travel offerings, Filipino cuisine, and vibrant culture to 250 selected guests from the Italian-Filipino community and business networks.
using the bbmg Travel Passport and Privilege Card. additionally, this campaign offers Filipinos a unique opportunity to reconnect with family and their homeland.
bisita, be my guest serves as a bridge to showcase the Philippines’ rich culture, scenic landscapes, and delicious cuisine to a wider audience. Promoting unity and pride in the Philippines’ natural treasures, this initiative transforms oFws into tourism ambassadors. It not only invites visitors to explore and enjoy but also connects them with local com-
munities and businesses that thrive with tourist patronage.
In a period of recovery from the pandemic’s impact, bisita, be my guest stands as a vital step toward revitalizing tourism and sharing the Philippines’ beauty with the world.
Recently, bisita, be my guest and the Love the Philippines campaign were launched in Italy with over 200 selected guests from the Filipino-Italian community and business networks. Led by Philippine ambassador to Italy neil Imperial and Consul general elmer Cato, the event high-
lighted the Philippines’ tourist destinations, Filipino products, and the rich Filipino culture for Italians. attendees enjoyed Filipino cuisine and activities that deepened their understanding of the country’s beauty as a top tourist destination.
This project combined an interactive showcase of popular Philippine locations, featuring natural wonders like diving spots, world-class beaches, and luxury island destinations like boracay, siargao, and bohol.
Through this campaign, overseas Filipinos actively engage as tourism ambassadors, inspiring more people to experience the Philippines’ cultural richness and natural splendor.
In addition, The Philippines has once again made its mark in global tourism, securing nine nominations in the 2024 world Travel awards. Key categories in which the country was recognized include world’s Leading beach Destination, world’s Leading Dive Destination, and world’s Leading Island Destination.
boracay was nominated as the world’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, the Love the Philippines campaign as the world’s Leading marketing Campaign, and Intramuros as
the world’s Leading Tourist attraction. Cebu, manila, and the DoT were also included in this prestigious list.
The country also celebrates the recognition of its islands in Condé nast Traveler’s prestigious list. with boracay, Palawan, Cebu, and siargao named as asia’s top destinations, these islands showcase the country’s unique beauty, deepened by its culture, traditions, and cuisine. being home to the most recognized islands in southeast asia highlights the unparalleled experiences and warm hospitality that Filipinos offer to visitors.
BACK TO MY FILIPINO ROOTS
Words by Raphael Rey Bacolod
Sometimes, I find it amusing that I am the Director for the Philippines and Indonesia at the austrian business agency (aba) – woRK in aUsTRIa . growing up, I rarely identified myself as Filipino. be that as it may, I now bring
my enthusiasm for my home country, austria, to my work at a governmental agency by helping austrian companies connect with Filipino and Indonesian professionals and skilled workers. I share this enthusiasm for austria with Filipinos and Indonesians who are interested in living and working in our country.
my name is Raphael Rey bacolod. born and raised in Vienna, austria in the 1990s, I was raised by my mother and grandmother. my grandmother moved from the Philippines to austria in 1974, and my mother followed in 1980. my first point of contact with Filipinos outside of my family was in primary school, where I had
multiple classmates of Filipino descent who all became lifelong friends. as I went through school, I gained more Filipino friends. I noticed that among all these Filipinos, I was the one least connected to the Filipino culture and my Filipino roots, as my friends would be regularly exposed to the Philippines and Filipino culture through their social circles and regular holiday trips to the Philippines.
I, on the other hand, was drawn towards asia as a whole rather than just the Philippines. I pursued my interest in asia through my academic studies, obtaining a master’s degree in east asian business from the University of sheffield, UK, and in my corporate career when I worked as Regional sales manager, asia-Pacific for an austrian security technology company. In this latter role, I would frequently go on business trips to multiple countries in asia. at this previous company, one of the countries I tried exploring business opportunities in was the Philippines.
However, as luck would have it, I would instead find business
opportunities in neighbouring Indonesia, which prompted me to visit Indonesia for the first time in 2023. During my two visits to Indonesia in 2023, I was surprised by the drive and innovative spirit of the Indonesian business partners I met. soon after these visits, I was made aware of the opening of the position of Director, Indonesia and Philippines at the austrian business agency. The interview and feeling out process with the aba lasted only a matter of days, and it was a highly positive one as I immediately felt at home with my future colleagues and supervisors.
so, in april 2024, I assumed my current role at the aba . In my current role as Director, I am tasked with directing and driving efforts to raise awareness of how attractive austria is as a place to live and work for Filipino and Indonesian professionals and citizens in the fields of IT, Technology and Life sciences. I do so by, among other responsibilities, travelling to the Philippines and Indonesia and communicating with the professionals and skilled workers at universities, training institutions, and career and job fairs.
Promoting austria to Filipinos and Indonesians comes naturally to me, as I simply have to explain my
story and experiences at home in austria. It certainly helps that the consultations and services that aba provides Filipino and Indonesian professionals, skilled workers and their families in applying for the legal long-term work and residence permit in austria, called the Red-white-Red Card, are free of cost, since many international talents looking to move abroad are grateful for any support and advice.
Knowing that Roots & wings is an e-magazine dedicated to the Philippine Diaspora in europe, I would like to take the chance to inform readers of the possibility for Filipinos to move to austria. You, too, can inform friends and relatives in the Philippines that it is possible to move to austria—in the heart of europe. so if you have any friends and relatives in the Philippines who are professionals and skilled workers in the fields of IT, Technology and Life sciences and think of looking for a job and moving to europe or even austria, please let them know about our work.
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO BARBER EXTRAORDINAIRE
Erwin Golfo’s Journey to Building Parma’s
Premier Gentleman’s Barbershop
Words by Mye Mulingtapang
Seventeen years ago, erwin golfo left his hometown of sto. Tomas, batangas, and set out for Parma, Italy, in search of a better future. with little more than hope, grit, and determination, he arrived in a foreign country, ready to work hard and make something of himself. now,
golfo has built a thriving business in Parma—a barbershop that’s redefining men’s grooming with a touch of luxury and a true sense of community.
golfo’s journey was not an easy one. Like many immigrants, he took on any job that came his way. From washing cars to working as a domestic helper,
he tackled these jobs with a quiet resilience, using each experience to build the life he dreamed of. These jobs, while far from glamorous, helped him make ends meet, and he approached each one with diligence and a commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on his early years, golfo says, “ when I first arrived, I was willing to take any job I could get. I had to make sacrifices to get where I am now. each role, even the smallest, taught me something valuable.”
eventually, he landed a job at a prestigious salon in Parma, though his duties were limited to cleaning and butler-like tasks. but the salon, with its buzz of creativity and expert stylists, sparked something in him. Drawn to the craft, he closely observed the barbers at work, fascinated by the transformative power of a haircut.
Recognizing his interest, the salon owner encouraged him to pursue formal training, and golfo enrolled in hair
school while continuing his job. For years, he balanced work and study, determined to learn the artistry of cutting and grooming. The idea of using his hands to shape, style, and make people feel good about themselves held a unique appeal.
“I never thought I’d be doing something like this when I first came here,” golfo reflects, “but I’ve always believed in growing wherever you’re planted.”
with his newfound expertise and passion, golfo took the next step: opening his own gentleman’s barbershop in the heart of Parma. but this wasn’t going to be an ordinary barbershop. golfo’s vision was a place where men could enjoy a complete grooming experience—a true retreat in the heart of Parma.
This Filipino barber now showcases unmatched skill and talent with every precision cut. with years of experience and a keen eye for detail, golfo brings a unique blend of artistry and technique to each client, redefining style and el-
evating grooming to an art form. His hands tell the story of dedication and craftsmanship, proving that in every cut lies the mark of true talent.
“Haircutting is more than a skill; it’s a form of expression,” golfo explains. “I love being able to give clients a style that matches who they are or who they want to be. It’s my way of helping them feel confident.”
Today, as clients step into his shop, they’re met with an experience that goes beyond a simple haircut. each guest is warmly greeted, as g olfo remove and hang their coats, offering them the kind of personal attention usually reserved for the finest establishments. guests are then treated to freshly brewed coffee, setting the tone for a luxurious session that’s as much about relaxation as it is about grooming. From precise haircuts to beard and mustache trimming, facial treatments, and neck massages, golfo’s barbershop is like a pamper day for men, creating a full experience that leaves clients feeling revitalized. His meticulous skill and welcoming nature set his shop apart.
“Running my own shop is a dream come true. I wanted to create a space where men can feel pampered, where they get more than a haircut—they get an experience,” he says. “From the greeting to the coffee to the final look in the mirror, every detail matters.”
His shop, filled with polished leather chairs, vintage mirrors, warm lights, interesting polished decor, and a selection of grooming tools, quickly became known for its warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s not just a place to get a haircut—it’s a hub for connection, a place where conversations flow freely, and where golfo has fostered strong friendships with clients who have become like
family.
golfo’s reputation grew, and so did his clientele. His dedication to top-quality service attracted a loyal clientele of Italians and also fellow Filipinos among his loyal patrons. His clients trust him not only for his skillful cuts but also for the care and attention he brings to every appointment. Through the years, golfo has become more than just a barber to many; he’s a friend, a confidant, and a trusted member of the community.
Reflecting on his journey, g olfo says, “I feel like I’m finally reaping what I sowed all those years ago. I’ve built something that isn’t just mine; it’s a part of the community.”
For golfo, the rewards of his success go beyond financial gains. The friendships he’s cultivated, the respect he’s earned, and the ability to contribute to the Italian community as a Filipino immigrant are what he cherishes most. His story is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of never giving up on one’s dreams, no matter how humble the beginning.
as he stands in his bustling shop, surrounded by friends and customers, he knows that his journey is far from over. His dream continues—to keep growing his business, to give back to the community that embraced him, and to inspire others to pursue their passions with the same dedication that led him here.
FILIPINO YOUTH SHINE IN ROBOTICS ON WORLD STAGE
Victories in Italy and Greece Inspire the Next Generation
Words by Mye Mulingtapang
Photos courtesy of Mylene Abiva, National Organizer, World Robot Olympiad Philippines
In a stunning display of Filipino talent and innovation, the Philippine Robotics national Team has achieved exceptional recognition at prestigious robotics competitions in Italy and greece. These young minds not only garnered numerous awards but also inspired their peers and showcased the Philippines’ growing expertise in technology.
The Philippine Robotics national Team participated in two major events: the world Robot olympiad Italy open Championship 2024 and the FIRsT global Challenge 2024 in greece last september. Facing tough competition from different countries, these young innovators not only won awards across various categories but also set a standard for future Filipino scientists,
engineers, and technology enthusiasts.
world Robot olympiad 2024: Filipino Teams Dominate the Competition Held in Italy, the world Robot olympiad (wRo) is a platform where young minds from around the world come together to demonstrate their skills in robotics engineering and problem-solving. In the Robomission Junior High school category, the Japer memorial High school team from bohol clinched the top spot, showcasing their advanced problem-solving abilities and technical skills. The team’s innovative project, developed and programmed entirely by students, emphasized not just technical finesse but practical application.
The Japer memorial High school team sees this achievement as more than a personal victory. “It will inspire them to create advanced machinery and robots in the future, especially artificial intelligence
(aI)-powered robots, which can be invaluable for both our country and the world. “never stop learning, and always seek knowledge wherever you go,” they shared.
In the Robomission senior High school category, Columban College barretto of olongapo came in fourth, marking a strong showing in an advanced field. These achievements highlighted the capabilities of Filipino youth to engage with complex challenges and produce effective, competitive solutions.
Groundbreaking Projects in the Future Innovators Category
The wRo also spotlighted teams that tackled unique real-world challenges with forward-thinking solutions.
These young minds showed the world that Filipinos possess an attitude of excellence"
The DYCI Primes was awarded the BRONZE medal for the Sofia Kovaleskaya Award, recognizing their significant contributions to the world of robotics. Their documentary on social media, aligned with the theme "Feeding the Future," highlighted the vital role of robotics in addressing global challenges related to food security and sustainability.
Legazpi science High school claimed the Creative award in the senior High school category for its solar-powered vertical hydroponic system. The system uses a soil-free cultivation technique with an automated nutrient-monitoring function that adjusts based on the plants’ needs—a practical and sustainable solution for agriculture, particularly in urban or resource-limited areas.
members of Team HaKbang from Legazpi City science High school, who developed this system, are passionate about robotics as a pathway to sustainable technology. “Robotics is shaping the future, and we are thrilled to contribute to solutions that merge technology with environmental stewardship,” they shared, underlining a vision that blends Filipino innovation with global impact.
Dr. Yanga Colleges Inc. received the Impact award in the Future Innovators Junior High school category.
mylene abiva, national organizer of the world Robot olympiad Philippines, remarked on the dedication that powered the team’s journey. “It’s not only a competition; it’s a life-changing experience,” she stated, recognizing the challenges the teams faced— from funding to visa arrangements—and the perseverance that led to their global success. “These young minds showed the world that Filipinos possess an attitude of excellence,” abiva added. “Their achievements reflect a commitment to innovation and progress, proving that with the right support, Filipinos can excel in global technology and innovation fields.”
From Inspiration to Innovation: Young Filipinos
Lead in Robotics for Agriculture at the FIRsT global Challenge 2024 in athens, greece, the DYCI PRImes team from the Philippines continued the success story. The team’s project, a robotics-based documentary titled ”Feeding the Future,” took home the sofia Kovalevskaya award for its insightful approach to agricultural development through robotics. The documentary demonstrated how robotics could enhance agricultural efficiency and productivity—an especially relevant theme as the world looks for sustainable solutions to food security. Their achievement extended beyond the documentary, as the team also won the global explorer award, underscoring the international recognition of Filipino ingenuity in robotics and innovation. The DYCI PRImes project not only impressed judges with its technical sophistication but also resonated as a call to action for young innovators
worldwide, encouraging them to leverage technology for social change.
A New Generation of Filipino Innovators on the Global Stage
From Italy to greece, these accomplishments spotlight a promising future for Philippine robotics and technology. The Philippine Robotics national Team’s success not only underscores the technical talent within the country but also serves as a source of inspiration for young Filipinos to pursue sTem fields and contribute to technological advancements.
This new generation of Filipino robotics whizzes is setting a precedent for technological advancement and innovation in southeast asia, proving that the Philippines is ready to make its mark on the global stage in science and technology. as robotics continues to reshape industries worldwide, the Philippines is poised to be part of that transformation, thanks to the passion and skills of its young innovators.
The Philippine Robotics National Team demonstrated their prowess on the global stage, emerging victorious at the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) Italy Open Championship 2024.
UK
Words by Myla Arceno
The fifth annual one nation awards UK, an initiative to celebrate the great deeds of Filipino britons, took place in october at the nave, soho square in London. Thanks to the brilliant idea of Jhermination Digital media events
in collaboration with the multi-awarded UK news magazine one Philippines, the awards have inspired many by bringing to light the amazing contributions of individuals and groups to our community and society.
The awards have various creative themes annually: Lockdown awards in 2020, breakthrough awards in 2021,
Celebration in 2022, shine at the first in-person awards in 2023, and energy in 2024.
The october event was attended by various Filipino british individuals and communities from all over the UK, generous sponsors, entrepreneurs, talents, dignitaries, family and friends, with host ella segovia mcgovern. I was tasked to give an inspiration-
al talk, which I did with all my passion for our community. sheila aguilar of the migrant welfare office (mwo) and the overseas workers welfare administration (owwa) of the Philippine embassy in London gave the welcome message.
There are 10 award categories, and the winners were chosen by esteemed judges from different fields of expertise, including some community leaders from other countries. The nominations are open to the public and have a set of criteria and guidelines to comply with. we are so proud to celebrate the contributions of the following winners to our community.
• Charlotte Nicole Ocampo Inspirational Youth Award
• Daisy Mariano Esguerra Arts and Culture Award
• Krys Castro — Muresan Healthcare Award
• Wendelyn Caballero Stewardship Helping Hand Award
• Love for Downs UK Love and Light Award
• Nick Paul Fruto Entrepreneur Award
• Reynaldo Lachica Energy Award
• Rebecca Benham Pride LGBTQ+ Award
• Archie Nabus Sports and Fitness Award
• Stevenage Filipino British Community Outstanding Community Award stevenage was represented by our Community President, Liza Delfin. I was so proud and honoured to join her in receiv-
ing the outstanding Community award. This is very special to stevenage as our first award as a community. one nation awards has made us appreciate what we have achieved.
Thank you to Jhermy Roy esperanzate, millicent De mesa, Kuya Rey abesamis of one Philippines news magazine and team, and congratulations to all the nominees and winners! You have made a positive impact and beautiful inspiration to all.
Directory of Philippine Embassies in Europe
Roots & wings e-Publications have been making an impact on the euro-Filipino community in the last dozen years by promoting Filipino culture, art, entrepreneurship, outstanding Filipinos in various fields, community events and providing current contacts to diplomatic missions within europe. See list here.
Embassy information changes all the time. Help us update this directory by emailing rawmags.betsy@gmail.com.
AUSTRIA
Embassy of the Philippines, Vienna
H.E. Ambassador Evangelina Lourdes A. Bernas 20th and 21st Floor, ARES Tower
Donau-City-Strasse 11, A-1220 Vienna, Austria
Tel (+43-1) 533-2401
Emergency Tel (+43-6991) 232-2034
Email: vienna.pe@dfa.gov.ph vienna.pm@dfa.gov.ph
WWW.VIENNAPE.DFA.GOV.PH
BELGIUM
Embassy of the Philippines, Brussels
H.E. Ambassador Jaime Victor B. Ledda
297 Avenue Moliere, Brussels, 1050 Belgium
Tel (+32-2) 34033-77 to 78
Emergency Tel (+32-4) 8860-9177
Email: brussels.pe@dfa.gov.ph; brusselspe@gmail.com
Facebook: @PHinBelgium
WWW.BRUSSELSPE.DFA.GOV.PH
CZECH REPUBLIC
Embassy of the Philippines, Prague
H.E. Ambassador Eduardo R. Meñez Senovazne Namesti 8, Prague 1, 110 00 Czech Republic
Tel (+420) 224-216397 (+420) 224-216397 / 224-216385
Emergency Tel (+420) 607-850-764
Email: prague.pe@dfa.gov.ph; praguepe@gmail.com
Facebook: @PHinCzechRepublic
WWW.PRAGUEPE.DFA.GOV.PH
DENMARK
Embassy of the Philippines, Copenhagen
H.E. Ambassador Leo M. Herrera-Lim Arne Jacobsens Alle 13, 1st Floor, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
Tel (+45) 7141-5952
Emergency (+45) 2273-3933
Email: copenhagen.pe@dfa.gov.ph Facebook: @PHinDenmark
WWW.COPENHAGENPE.DFA.GOV.PH
FINLAND
Hon. Consulate General in Helsinki
Ms. Maria Kauppinen
Honorary Consul
Ylisrinne 6A-T2, 02210 Espoo Finland
Tel (+358) 400 913 243
EMAIL: DCKAUPPINEN.M@GMAIL.COM
FRANCE
Embassy of the Philippines, Paris
H.E Ambassador Junever M. Mahilum-West
4 Hameau de Boulainvilliers
45 Rue du Ranelagh
75016 Paris, France
Tel (+331) 4414-5700
(+331) 4414-5700 4414-5701/2 (Consular) Emergency (+336) 2059-2515 (+336) 2059-2515
Email: paris.pe@dfa.gov.ph parispe.dfa@gmail.com
Facebook: @PHinFrance
WWW.PARISPE.DFA.GOV.PH
GERMANY
Embassy of the Philippines, Berlin
H.E. Ambassador Irene Susan B. Natividad
Luisenstrasse 16, 10117 Berlin-Mitte
Federal Republic of Germany
Tel +49 (0) 30 864 95 00
Emergency +49 (0) 173-521-5703
Email: info@philippine-embassy.de, consular@ philippine-embassy.de
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ PHinGermany
WWW.PHILIPPINE-EMBASSY.DE
Consulate General of the Philippines, Frankfurt
Consul General Marie Yvette L. Banzon Abalos
Westend Carree
Grüneburgweg 16-18, 1st Floor 60322 Frankfurt Am Main
Federal Republic of Germany
Tel (+49) (0) 69 8700 66900
Hotline (+49) (0) 151 6248 7425
Assistance to Nationals (+49) (0) 151 5354 6841
Email: frankfurt.pcg@dfa.gov.ph
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ PHinFrankfurt/ WWW.FRANKFURTPCG.DE
WWW.FRANKFURTPCG.DFA.GOV.PH/
GREECE
Embassy of the Philippines, Athens
H.E. Ambassador Giovanni E. Palec 26 Antheon Street, Paleo Psychico 154-52
Athens, Greece
Tel (+30210) 672-1883
(+30210) 672-1883
672-1837
Emergency (+30-697) 968-2921, (+30-697) 968-2921
Email: athens.pe@dfa.gov.ph; ATHENSPE@OTENET.GR
HUNGARY
Embassy of the Philippines, Budapest
H.E. Ambassador Frank R. Cimafranca 1026 Budapest, Gabor Aron utca 58 Budapest, Hungary Tel (+36-1) 391-4300
Email: budapest.pe@dfa.gov.ph / phbuda@philembassy.hu Facebook: @PHLinHungary WWW.BUDAPESTPE.DFA.GOV.PH
ICELAND
Philippine Consulate, Reykjavik, Iceland
H.E. Consul Maria Priscilla Zanoria a.h Skógarsel 39
109 Reykjavik, Iceland
Tel (+354) 897 5391
EMAIL: PHILCONSUL@SIMNET.IS
ISRAEL
Embassy of the Philippines, Tel-Aviv
H.E. Ambassador Pedro Laylo Jr. No. 18 Bnei Dan Street, Tel-Aviv, 62260 Israel
Tel (+9723) 601-0500 (+9723) 601-0500
Emergency (+972-54) 466-1188 (+972-54) 466-1188
Email: telaviv.pe@dfa.gov.ph; filembis@netvision.net.il
WWW.PHILEMBTELAVIV.CO.IL
ITALY
Embassy of the Philippines, Rome
H.E. Ambassador Nathaniel G. Imperial Viale delle Medaglie d’Oro 112-114 00136 Rome, Italy
Tel (+3906) 3974-6621 (+3906) 3974-6621
Emergency (+39) 328-690-7613 (+39) 328-690-7613
Email: rome.pe@dfa.gov.ph romepe2007@gmail.com
WWW.PHILEMBASSY-ROME.NET
THE NETHERLANDS
Embassy of The Republic Of The Philippines, The Hague
H.E. Ambassador Jose Eduardo Malaya
Tel (+31) 70360-4820
Emergency (+31)(0) 65261-1079
Email: thehague.pe@dfa.gov.ph / thehague@ philembassy.nl
Facebook: @PHinTheNetherlands WWW.THEHAGUEPE.DFA.GOV.PH
NORWAY
Embassy of the Philippines, Oslo
H.E. Ambassador Enrico T. Fos Nedre Vollgate 4, 0158 Oslo, Norway
P.O. Box 1758 VIKA N-0122 Oslo, Norway (+47) 224-00900 (+47) 224-00900
Emergency (+47) 902 41 171
Email: helpdesk@philembassy.no WWW.PHILEMBASSY.NO
POLAND
Embassy of the Philippines, Warsaw
H.E. Ambassador Leah M. Basinang-Ruiz
Ul. Lentza 11, 02-956 Warsaw, Republic of Poland
Tel +48 22 490 2025 and +48 694 491 664
Emergency +48 604 357 396
Email: warsaw.pe@dfa.gov.ph
Facebook: @PHLinPoland WWW.WARSAWPE.DFA.GOV.PH
PORTUGAL
Embassy of the Philippines, Lisbon
H.E. Ambassador Paul Raymund P. Cortes
Rua Barata Salgueiro 30–3 andar 1250-044 Lisbon, Portugal
Tel (+351) 216-083-274; 216-083-276; 216-083-277
Emergency (+351) 925-410-257
E-mail: lisbon.pe@dfa.gov.ph lisbon.pe@gmail.com
WWW.LISBONPE.DFA.GOV.PH
RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Embassy of the Philippines, Moscow
H.E. Ambassador Igor G. Bailen
Pereulok 8 Building 1, 121099
Moscow, Russian Federation
Tel (+7-499) 241-0563; 241-0564; 241-0565)
Email: moscow.pe@dfa.gov.ph moscowpe@mailfrom.ru
Facebook: Philembassy Moscow
WWW.MOSCOWPE.DFA.GOV.PH
SPAIN
Embassy of the Philippines, Madrid
H.E Ambassador Philippe J. Lhuillier
Calle Eresma 2, 28002 Madrid, Spain (Chancery) Calle Guadalquivir 6, 28002 Madrid, Spain (Consular Section)
Tel (+34) 917-823-830 / 917-823-836; 917-451734 (Consular Section)
Emergency (+34) 616-491-861
Email: madrid.pe@dfa.gov.ph / madridpe@yahoo.com
Consular: info@philembassymadrid. com / consular@philembassymadrid.com Facebook: @PHinSpain www.philembassymadrid.com
WWW.MADRIPE.DFA.GOV.PH
Consulate General Barcelona
Consul General Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro
Rambla de Catalunya 33, Planta Principal 08007
Barcelona, Spain
+34 938 28 83 12
BARCELONAPCG.CONSULAR@DFA.GOV.PH
SWEDEN
Embassy of the Philippines in Stockholm, Sweden
Address Grenstigen 2A, 181 31 Lidingö, Sweden. H.E. Ambassador Maria Lumen B. Isleta
Tel + 46 70 8474780
Email phiinsweden@gmail.com
Mobile +46 702 735 407, +63 9054039435 (Viber)
EMAIL: STOCKHOLM.PE@DFA.GOV.PH
SWITZERLAND
Embassy of the Philippines, Berne
H.E. Ambassador Bernard Faustino M. Dy Kirchenfeldstrasse 73-75
3005 Berne, Switzerland
Tel (+41-31) 350-1700
Emergency (+41-79) 542-1992
Email: berne.pe@dfa.gov.ph / info@philembassyberne.ch
Facebook: @PHinSwitzerland
WWW.BERNEPE.DFA.GOV.PH
Permanent Representative to United Nations Office at Geneva
H.E. Ambassador Evan P. Garcia
47 Avenue Blac, 1202 Geneva
Switzerland
Tel (+41-22) 716-1930
Emergency (+41-79) 1369-114
Email: geneva.pm@dfa.gov.ph / genevapm49@ gmail.com
genevapm.dfa.gov.ph
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/GENEVAPCG
UNITED KINGDOM
Embassy of the Philippines, London
H.E. Ambassador Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. 6-8 Suffolk Street, London SW1Y 4HG
United Kingdom of Great Britain
Tel (+44) 20-7451-1780
Emergency (+44) 78-0279-0695
Email: london.pe@dfa.gov.ph / embassy@philemb.co.uk
Facebook: @PHLinUK
WWW.LONDONPE.DFA.GOV.PH
VATICAN, ITALY
Embassy of the Philippines, Vatican
H.E. Ambassador Myla Grace Regina Macahilig
Charge d’ Affaires
Via Paolo VI, 29, 00193 Rome, Italy
Tel (+39-06) 6830-8020
Email: vatican.pe@dfa.gov.ph / vaticanpe2@gmail.com
https://dfa.gov.ph/about/dfa-directory/ourforeign-service-posts-dfa
WWW.VATICANPE.DFA.GOV.PH
CHANGING THE PHILIPPINE ART SCENE: CONTEMPORARY,
DISTINCTIVE AND URBAN AUSTRIA
Featuring three Filipino Pop Art artists
Words by Ralph Chan
“Art is what you get away with”
andy warhol once said. as we all know, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. This is particularly the case in art, especially when it is not the typical still life painting that we usually see and know but art that provokes and inspires. some Filipino artists have made it their mission to use their art to stimulate, to provoke with their paintings, to show that art is more than sub-
tle. Their style and their pictures are part of Pop art, an art movement that caused a sensation in the 1960s with paintings by artists such as Roy Lichtenstein and andy warhol. The most important feature of Pop art is that Pop artists combine art and everyday life, often with trivial motifs that are familiar from everyday pop culture, the media and advertising. The motifs used are torn from their original context, isolated and thus changed in their meaning.
The paintings of norlie meimban, ela andal and ejem alarcon are also like this. They are direct, uncompromising and drawn with powerful colours. with their work they
“NORLIE” MEIMBAN
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let their audience experience what they see, what our society is like, and what our reality looks like.
Introducing three Filipino Pop Art artists
norlito “norlie” meimban had art in his blood from a young age. He grew up in a family of artists, his father being a professional visual artist. meimban studied fine arts
at UP Diliman with a major in painting. His greatest role models in art are Rembrandt, Velasquez, Rubens, Van gogh, monet and also warhol, but his greatest personal role model is his father, who had a great influence on him and many of his fellow artists. art is part of his life; “parang nasa dugo na namin ata yan,” says meimban. His goal is to leave a legacy in art by helping young artists
and showing the people that there is art in the world. The paintings are his narratives, and the stories he depicts are his experiences. He explores his style in a universe of different colours so that he can create unique Pop art. another artist is ela andal, who draws inspiration for her paintings from her childhood and everyday experiences. she discovered her love for art at
Red Lips Series 2
Schöne Frau 1
Schöne Frau 2
ELA ANDAL
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Famous Woman of the Art History
Renaissance icon
a young age, which also influenced her further life path and educational choices. she completed her studies at eaRIsT, where she honed her skills and talents. after graduating, andal began a career as a graphic designer and worked for wellknown brands such as marvel, bum, and Dickies. However, she later decided to immerse herself in the art scene and focus on her career as a painter. andal’s art includes acrylic, watercolour, and oil paintings as well as sculptures. Her art style is characterised by vibrant hues, varied patterns and diverse brushstrokes and often depicts a prominent figure inspired by american artist Kaws. with these artistic elements, andal wants to convey positivity and euphoria to her audience, because she believes that we don’t stop playing because we get old; we get old because we stop playing. and finally, ejem alarcon, who takes a realistic approach with highly detailed and imaginative paintings that often depict a menagerie of animals. alarcon has a degree in fine arts, but had to unlearn what he learned at university by breaking conventional artistic norms and paying little attention to perspective and perception. Unlike meimban and andal, alarcon’s paintings do not depict people, but rather oversized objects and artefacts that are in relation to one another, blurring realities as the subjects are presented in direct visual impact. In his paintings, he expresses his own visual language and explores what symbols mean and how their inherent character relates to everyday aphorisms.
Inspiring Filipinos with their art around the world
Roots&wings had the pleasure of meeting these three artists during their joint appearance at the “Isang Hagod” exhibition in the heart of Vienna at galerie steiner in september. They came together with fellow Filipino austrian artists Charmaine Taus and Harold Khan (both board members of sige! – network of Filipino artists) for a special exhibition. They showcased their talent on canvas to a wide audience. Local Filipinos were impressed. Their images have been described as contemporary, distinctive, striking, but also urban, powerful and imaginative.
Invitation of sige! to their exhibition Isang Hagod
Group picture (from left to right: Norlie Meimban, Charmaine Taus and Harold Khan (chair persons of sige!The Filipino arts network), Ela Andal, Ejem Alarcon
audiences felt that norlie meimban’s paintings achieved photorealism, while his portraits captivated audiences with the emotional depth as each work and subject told its own story. The delicate strokes brought out the soulful expressions. ela andal’s street-style Pop art portraits, on the other hand, depicted famous people with a modern twist. audiences described them as humorous with many references from various well-known artists from different decades. The assemblage of Filipino influences and personalities from european history and context not only sparked curiosity but also provoked thought. The paintings were viewed from a new perspective. ejem alarcon’s modern pop culture artworks evoked nostalgia in viewers. The audience noted many Pop art references, some of which might be called bizarre. The artist’s playful interpretations sparked conversations about the intersection of culture and art. His play with strong colours and his idiosyncratic style attracted attention.
Some take-away and learnings from their art
In a follow-up interview, Roots&wings spoke to norlie meimban, who emphasised that as an artist you should just paint what you think or what you want to say. “ wag maki uso lang dahil nasa art ang pera.” Follow your heart as artists. It becomes clear that artists often do not know what impact they have on their viewers. They do not know that they are successful, because artists only think they know how to create works. They of-
ten underestimate their success; the only question is how you measure it. as an artist, you can be successful without making a lot of money or fortune with your art. It is therefore important to not just look but to understand the meaning behind the art of the art-
ist. and lastly some advice to young artists from meimban: “Just make artwork, do research, practise your good engagement, your good communication with your fellow artists and collectors, but always remain a good human being.
Artist Profile Rachel Duenas –A Filipina Visual Storyteller and Impressionist Painter
Paris Art Exhibition
Carrousel du Louvre
October 2024
Rachel Duenas, a Filipina abstract impressionist and visual storyteller, recently showcased her work at the prestigious salon International d’art Contemporain, held from october 1920, 2024, at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, France. This significant event brought together international artists, providing Duenas an extraordinary platform to share her unique vision alongside talented peers from around the globe.
Duenas’ journey to this international stage is a story of
passion, resilience, and serendipity. Having aspired to be an artist from a young age, she began developing her artistic skills independently, with no formal training. The CoVID-19 pandemic in 2020 became a pivotal time for her, allowing her to hone her craft in painting. This period marked the beginning of her public exhibitions in manila, eventually leading to her first solo show in 2023. During a chance encounter at Paris Fashion week, Duenas met ambassador mahilum-west from the Philippine embassy, who introduced her to a network that helped pave her way to participate in the salon International d’art Contemporain. at the Carrousel du Lou-
vre, Duenas exhibited three paintings, each embodying her distinctive approach as a gestural impressionist. Her works explore layered themes of imagination and emotion, incorporating vibrant colors to capture the untold stories within the psyche. while her artistic style draws inspiration from French masters like gaugin, monet, and matisse, she infuses her works with warm, tropical tones that reflect her Filipino heritage. Duenas’ art resonates with a theme of raw, wild nature, blending elements of magic realism with the immersive use of color—a crucial element she believes must be “given respect” to express the soul’s deeper narratives.
Words by Rachel Duenas
Images by Rachel Duenas and Vincent Guanco
Artistic Style and Inspirations
Rachel Duenas’ artistry is deeply rooted in her philosophy of color and storytelling. Identifying as an abstract impressionist, she believes that color plays a central role in unlocking the narratives with-
in our psyche. Her gestural brushwork and impressionistic techniques create a sense of movement and spontaneity, characteristic of the natural world, yet imbued with elements of dreamlike magic realism. although her style has strong influences from French impressionists, her palette reflects the warmth of her native Philippines, making her work distinct within the impressionist genre.
Duenas’ debut solo exhibition, launched in 2023, signified a milestone, establishing her as the first in her family to professionally pursue art. Her creative voice is informed by the textures, colors, and untamed beauty of nature, translating these elements into a visual language that resonates on both emotional and imaginative levels.
Exhibition Highlights International and Philippine Shows
Rachel Duenas’ recent exhibitions highlight her expanding international presence and her strong ties to the Filipino art scene. Her work has been celebrated in solo and group shows both in the Philippines and abroad:
International Exhibitions
• October 18–20, 2024 group exhibition at Carrousel du Louvre, Paris, showcasing her work at the salon International d’art Contemporain.
• October 19–20, 2024 group exhibition at Kwado gallery, Paris.
Philippine Exhibitions
• September 1–30, 2024
solo exhibition, a Love Letter to the Pandemic, at Chef Jessie Rockwell
• May 4–July 4, 2024 group exhibition, beyond Kawaii, at Guava Sketches.
• November 18, 2023–January 18, 2024 solo exhibition, Christmas stars, at Guava Sketches.
• October 7–31, 2023 solo exhibition, Country of Flowers, at Galerya Amalia.
• May 12–June 12, 2023
solo exhibition at The Farm at San Benito
Through these exhibitions, Rachel Duenas continues to grow as a notable figure in both Filipino and international art communities. Her journey exemplifies the passion and dedication of a self-taught artist who, driven by her love of color and nature, brings stories to life with each brushstroke.
Come into life watercolor on canvas
The Winning Streak of Our Own Roots & Wings Country Editor
Words by Ralph Chan
Music speaks where words fail. This is the talent that our own Roots&wings Luxembourg Country editor Cipriano mercado De guzman, Jr. (commonly known as Zip) has. He has proven his talent as he has won the grand prizes at two high-profile international music competitions in spain and austria within just one week this summer.
Hailed as the “Filipino baritone”, Zip has won and received awards in various international singing competitions around the world for several years. His musical prowess has been recognized internationally in cities like new York, London, Rome, Tokyo, osaka, Yokohama and Lugano. notably, he made history as the first Filipino to win two victories in the prestigious american Protégé International music Competition held at Carnegie Hall’s weill Recital Hall in 2016 and 2017. a further notable milestone in his career was when he
participated in and won the barcelona International music Competition
“grand Prize
Virtuoso” held at the UnesCo Palau de la musica Catalana in barcelona. at this prestigious event, Zip emerged victorious along with Israeli soprano shiri magar, securing the first prize in the “Professional/senior” category. He continued his winning streak by winning
the grand prize again at the solitär mozarteum in salzburg, austria in July. The grand Prize Virtuoso International music Competition is a prestigious and competitive event that showcases exceptionally talented musicians of all ages from around the world.
Zip was also welcomed by ambassador evangelina Lourdes a . bernas during his visit to salzburg to the Philippine embassy in Vienna, where he performed the Kundiman songs “Dahil sa’yo” and “balikbayan.” Congratulations, Zip!
From Manila to Stockholm
A Journey through Journalism, Resilience, and
Identity
A Filipino journalist’s life of activism, adaptation, and storytelling across two worlds
Words by Maria Gutehall
Imet sonora ocampo in 2013 through a british friend who used to be her colleague. From the moment we were introduced, we hit it off and have been friends ever since. our bond is built on mutual respect and shared interests.
sonora was the first Filipino friend I met when I moved to stockholm. she has a captivating smile, and you can tell that she is a very sympathetic person. although we may not see each other often, our connection as friends is strong and built on mutual respect, which is what I value most in my circle of friends. Her story
is very inspiring, and I have no idea why it took me this long to write about her. now I finally have the opportunity to share how I admire this person from the bottom of my heart.
sonora was born in manila
in the mid-1960s. she made an early entrance into the world, arriving a month before her due date. some might call it premature, but she wants to think of it as being eager to start her journey in this world. she is a very eager person; I would say that makes her one of the strongest women I’ve known in this lifetime.
when she was born, she spent some time in an incubator, as she was tiny, much like a kitten. Her dearest aunt Daisy, her mom’s younger sister who left us early, used to recall that she was tiny enough to fit in a shoebox. and her mother, sheilah, couldn’t bear to see her in such a confined space and decided to nurse her back to health at home.
sonora’s parents were both engaged in journalism. Her father was a prominent business journalist in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s before joining the underground movement to fight the marcos dictatorship.
Her mother, sheilah, split her time as a teacher and then a government employee, becoming the first woman editor of the Far eastern economic Review and producing fearless stories during a time when the media was tightly controlled. The young sonora’s birth was announced in a short notice in a newspaper, mostly likely because of her father, working as a budding journalist at the time. This “news alert” was sonora’s first brush with fame.
From this rich tradition of resilience and social consciousness emerged sonora, carrying the courage required to document and share the truth. Her family’s journalistic and activist legacy profoundly influenced her career. Indeed, journalism is in her blood, and she continues to write to this day, balanced with a strong character and a compassionate heart.
sonora studied Communications arts at De La salle Uni-
versity, where she created an award-winning documentary about her father in 1984, titled “Ka satur.” This super 8 mm film, produced with two batchmates, won best documentary at the 1984 experimental Cinema of the Philippines (eCP) film festival and received other accolades, including being named one of the top independent Filipino films of the decade. It is a significant milestone, underscoring the value of documenting family and national stories and the power of independent film in the Philippines during a politically sensitive period.
This documentary foreshadowed sonora’s drive for truth. she began her career as a young journalist, covering critical issues in the mid-’80s and capturing pivotal times in Philippine history. she was then a journalist for national dailies like manila standard, manila Chronicle and manila Times.
In June 1992, she moved to stockholm, sweden, with her then six-month-old daughter, ariana. adjusting to a new country took time, just like it does for every immigrant, but we all passed that stage, exerting our resilience to assimilate and our hunger to learn something new. she learned the language, took courses at Komvux, and then attended stockholm University, where she wrote a paper on the impact of the internet on advertising and media. This led to a gig at svenska Dagbladet as editor of an english-language newsletter, marking the start of her professional career in sweden.
she spent many years working at a swedish news agency and a content agency and also dabbled in translation work. Currently, she works as an external Communications manager at ericsson. This evolution of sonora’s career demonstrates the adaptability of Filipino talents on a global stage. Her academic paper
made a lot of sense then and now, with internet connectivity playing a key role in media’s digital transformation. sonora has a passion for photography, and I have admired her photographs for years. They have inspired me to also express myself through pictures. she began with occasional photojournalism while working as a reporter for various national dailies in the Philippines during the mid-’80s to early ‘90s, capturing images during her assignments. with the rise of mobile photography, she has been capturing images with an iPhone, but she still aspires to return to traditional photography one day. This is something we can expect soon, as I often follow sonora’s freetime posts on social media.
as a single parent and openly gay immigrant in sweden, this journey has shaped her as a person and strengthened her resolve. Her involvement in Filipino associations has been a cornerstone of her experience. sonora was particu-
larly active in the women’s Rights Forum (Kvinnorättsforum) founded and led by her mom, sheilah. as an immigrant navigating a new life, the Filipino community offered sonora support and a sense of purpose, a crucial support system for many of us starting our journeys in a new country. These facets of her identity have profoundly shaped her experiences and continue to sustain her unending curiosity and drive her passion for storytelling. as her career grows and her circle expands, sonora may continue to inspire others with her “why not” list. writing a book, hosting a photo exhibit, and learning conversational spanish
only reflect her drive for lifelong learning and exploration. what an endless potential for growth at any life stage, and as a writer in my own small right, I believe it is never too late to explore one’s potential, no matter where one comes from. Her boost and drive for life’s exploration are truly motivational.
sonora’s curiosity, drive and passion for storytelling are indeed valuable tools for connecting people and bridging cultures. Her journey from manila to stockholm is unique, yet it carries universal themes: resilience, identity, and relentless pursuit of truth. sonora’s commitment to storytelling, evident in both her past career in media and current work in
communications, underscores that her journey is far from over.
It only proves that no matter where you come from, your identity and culture can be united and understood, if they are heard and when the truth is shared. The resilience of Filipinos, often spoken of, dwells in our hearts, heightening individual sensitivity, deepening our collective sense of humanity, and resulting in cultural adaptation and intelligence. as they say, to yield and not break is incredible strength, and we have that in sonora’s journey as a woman, a single mother, a gay parent, and a journalist at heart who shines and sails with a strong sense of self.
A Filipino Nurse in Finland Receives the Prestigious Queen Silvia Nursing Award for Innovation in Dementia Care
Words by Rachel Hansen
by Yanan Li and Swedish Care International
Floro Cubelo from the University of eastern Finland was honored with the prestigious Queen silvia nursing award at the Royal Palace in stockholm on september 12, 2024. The award was presented by Her majesty, Queen silvia of sweden, in recognition of Cubelo’s innovative idea in dementia care called the ”memory Passport.”
Cubelo’s memory Passport is an assessment tool designed to fill a gap in basic older adult care, emphasising the need for a holistic and comprehensive
approach. This interactive tool aims to guide caregivers and encourage older adults to actively participate in their care.
”my intention was to create a tool that not only addresses the current gaps in care but also fosters a culture of involvement and collaboration between nurses and older adults,” Cubelo explains.
The memory Passport places the older adult client at the forefront of care, advocating for personalised and culturally sensitive care that involves family members and multidisciplinary professionals. Cubelo suggests integrating this tool into nursing homes’ patient information systems to ensure comprehensive
Photos
Floro Cubelo receiving the award from Her Majesty Queen Silvia of Sweden
Q&A with Floro Cubelo
Please tell us a little more about your journey that has brought you to where you are now.
my journey has been one of resilience and determination. growing up in a very poor family, I believed that education was the key to overcoming poverty. Despite facing people who tried to pull me down, I remained focused on my dreams, becoming the master planner of my own path. while working in the clinical field, I continually educated myself and learned from the experiences of others. I was fortunate to be surrounded by experts who believed in me, and I used rejections, ridicules, and criticisms as fuel to forge my own path and grow as a person. This journey has not been easy, but it has shaped me into who I am today, and I am proud of the progress I’ve made.
What made you create the Memory Passport? Is this the first time that it is being implemented in the area of dementia care? Is it only being used in Finland? Is this something that can be implemented in other countries, including the Philippines?
care for residents, addressing their physical, psychological, and social health needs. additionally, this approach allows for the collection of valuable data to improve the quality of older adult care.
The grand ceremony included a panel discussion chaired by miia Kivipelto, Professor of neurogeriatrics at the University of eastern Finland (UeF). she emphasised the importance of a multi-perspective approach to dementia prevention, noting that 45% of all dementia cases are linked to modifiable risk factors.
Floro Cubelo is currently a senior Lecturer and Head of studies for the bachelor of Health Care Degree Programme in nursing at the oulu University of applied sciences in Finland, where he pioneered the program. He is also an Honoree of the DaIsY award for extraordinary nurse educator, editor of nursing & Health services, and a Doctoral Researcher. He is an alumnus of UeF’s master’s Degree Programme in Public Health, where he studied with a focus on nursing science.
The memory Passport is an innovative tool in dementia care, designed to be interactive and to encourage older adults to actively participate in their own care. It is created to address gaps in current care practices and to foster collaboration between care partners and the older adults. The tool emphasizes personalized, culturally sensitive care involving family members and multidisciplinary professionals. The idea is to integrate it in the patient information system. while it may not be the first of its kind, its specific design and application could be novel. The memory Passport is not limited to use in Finland and has the potential to be implemented in other countries, by adapting it to fit the cultural and systemic nuances of each healthcare system. Integrating this tool into nursing homes’ patient information systems can ensure comprehensive daily care for residents, addressing their physical, psychological, and social health needs.
How does being a Nurse in Finland differ from being a nurse back home in the Philippines? The working hours, the responsibilities, the interaction with co-workers and patients?
Floro Cubelo and Miia Kivipelto.
In my opinion, the working hours in Finland differ, often with a focus on work-life balance and regulated shifts, while in the Philippines, nurses experience longer hours due to the high demand and nurse-to-patient ratio. Interaction with co-workers and patients also varies; in Finland, there’s a cultural emphasis on direct communication and teamwork, encouraging nurses to be vocal and participate in decision-making processes. In the Philippines, the interaction is often hierarchical, with a strong sense of respect for seniority.
The nursing education in the Philippines is comprehensive, equipping nurses with the skills, knowledge, and attitude needed for the profession, which has been beneficial in adapting to the healthcare system in Finland, where continuous education and training are also highly valued. Filipino nurses bring a sense of resilience, empathy, and patience, which are highly regarded in Finland, and the training in Finland further enhances these values by encouraging constructive communication, especially in challenging situations. overall, my transition from the Philippines to Finland involved adapting to a different healthcare system and cultural environment, but the fundamental nursing skills and values remain the same, allowing for a smooth integration into the Finnish healthcare system. both experiences are valuable and contribute to a well-rounded nursing professional.
Filipino nurses with registered nurse backgrounds who are recruited to Finland face many challenges, including language and communication barriers, when dealing with patient interactions and teamwork. I have particularly noticed this with newcomers during skills assessment tests. However, it is impressive how quickly they learn the language during their clinical practicum, and they are often well-liked by their colleagues and patients, which eases their transition into the hospital setup. The community here is generally supportive, although recently, there have been challenges such as some nurses not being paid correctly, being laid off, or being unable to obtain the qualifications needed to practice as Rns in Finland. Despite these issues, the Filipino nurses
association in the nordic Region has been a key platform for raising concerns, and we have assisted several Filipino nurses in ensuring that their rights are upheld. I want to see more Filipino nurses being active with FInan in the future.
Do you agree that Finland is considered the happiest country in the world?
I agree that Finland’s reputation as the happiest country in the world is well-deserved. Happiness is indeed more than just smiling and laughing; it’s about a sense of commitment, peace of mind, and a balance between work and life. Finland excels in providing these elements, contributing to the overall well-being of its residents. The country’s strong educational system and work experiences also play a significant role in fostering a sense of fulfillment and contentment. The combination of a supportive social system, a focus on equality, and a deep connection with nature all contribute to the high levels of happiness reported by those living in Finland.
Seek out people who talk about vision, dreams, and goals, and who understand the true meaning of happiness.
What does it take to become the best version of oneself aside from lots of hard work and perseverance?
becoming the best version of oneself involves more than just hard work and perseverance. It requires a deep belief in oneself and the courage to surround oneself with positive influences. seek out people who talk about vision, dreams, and goals, and who understand the true meaning of happiness. Remember, happiness is not measured by material possessions or academic achievements, but by the impact you have on others and the fulfillment of your life’s mission. It’s about helping people and understanding your purpose in this world. by aligning your actions with your values and focusing on the greater good, you can achieve a sense of satisfaction and become the best version of yourself.
