camsur gov. l-ray villafuerte visionaries list
PHP295
100 names to reckon with in the 2010 philippine elections: national • senate • congress • provincial • local • private sector biz/lifestyle: louie ysmael • establishment • bellaroca
2 \
/3
0 /foreword
republic of the philippines, inc.
Government and business as partners—are you serious?! Growing up, I used to think that as long as government leaves business alone, business will thrive; the more they avoid each other and mind their own “business,” the more they would individually succeed.
The recent US recession, however, proved this idea erroneous. Government does have a stake in how business should operate and vice versa—just recall the massive amount of dollars the US government used in bailing out Big Business. As an entrepreneur in the Philippines, I find it very timely that we should be having our Presidential elections in May 2010. As the global economy has just started to recover from the world-wide recession, it is critical that we vote for a government run by competent people to ensure that we are one of the first countries to rise up from this downturn. This edition of our Visionaries List gives you a chance to be informed of the candidates and kingmakers who will be our “partners” in business. Welcome!
Richie Yang
Executive Editor
0 /foreword
what is a
visionary?
The year 2010 is the future. Changes are inevitable. We are looking at a gradual but radical metamorphosis. And the results depend on how we move and decide as individuals and as a people. As we approach the most anticipated and perhaps the most decisive event of 2010, the Philippine national elections, we are left with a question: What will happen to us?
There’s only one way to find out. Lay down the cards. Investigate. Analyze. Hence, we decided to create an undeniably demanding and distinct list that brings together 100 names to reckon with in May 2010. But this time, we view politics in a different light. The list is a coverage of visions, not controversies; visionaries, not celebrities. The Visionaries List challenges you to think and discover. The roster of presidential and vice presidential candidates, for instance, presents different colors. The legislative race, on the other hand, has a number of new faces with promising ideas. But what inspire us most are the efforts of some of the most progressive cities and provinces in the country. Our journey while producing this issue led us to real visionaries with sincere motives. The good politician still exists. Furthermore, 100 magazine recognizes the significance of the private sector in the elections. The most successful and determined entrepreneurs and personalities affect public opinion, while government influences their professional lives. The Visionaries List is only a proof that we are all connected. Let us embrace the new decade with a vision!
Carlo Velasco Editor-in-Chief
On the Cover Photographer: Jake Verzosa Stylist: Mara Reyes Shot on location at CWC, Camsur
Photographer: Jake Verzosa Stylist: Charmaine Palermo Shot on location at Bo Concept, Bonifacio High Street, The Fort
COUNTDOWN National , p14-15 1 denr sec. lito atienza 2 doj sec. agnes devanadera 3 dot sec. ace durano 4 doh sec. francisco duque iii 5 mmda chairman oscar inocentes 6 dilg sec. ronnie puno 7 tesda sec. boboy syjuco Senate , p16-23 8 sen. benigno “noynoy” aquino iii 9 sen. chiz escudero 10 sen. jinggoy estrada 11 sen. richard gordon 12 sen. loren legarda 13 sen. jamby madrigal
14 sen. francis “Kiko” pangilinan 15 sen. ramon “bong” revilla, jr. 16 sen. manuel “mar” roxas 17 sen. miriam defensor-santiago 18 sen. antonio trillanes iv 19 sen. manny villar 20 sen. miguel zubiri Congress , p24-47 21 rep. jun abaya, 1st district, cavite 22 rep. juan edgardo angara, lone district, aurora 23 rep. ma. rachel arenas, 3rd district, pangasinan 24 rep. dato arroyo, 1st district, camarines sur 25 rep. teodoro casino, bayan muna party list 26 rep. timmy chipeco, 2nd district, laguna
27 rep. maria isabelle climaco, 1st district, zamboanga city
37 rep. risa hontiveros, akbayan party list
28 rep. mark cojuangco, 5th district, pangasinan
38 rep. cecilia jalosjos-carreon, 1st district, zamboanga del norte
29 rep. neri colmenares, bayan muna pary list 30 rep. darlene custodio, 1st district, south cotabato and general santos
39 rep. eduardo nonato joson, 1st district, nueva ecija 40 rep. antonio lagdameo, jr., 2nd district, davao del norte
31 rep. mauricio domogan, lone district, baguio
41 rep. mitos magsaysay, 1st district, zambales
32 rep. eileen ermitabuhain, 1st district, batangas
42 rep. liza maza, gabriela party list
33 rep. rex gatchalian, 1st district, valenzuela city 34 rep. raul gonzalez, jr., lone district, iloilo city 35 rep. tg guingona, 2nd district, bukidnon 36 rep. ann hofer, 2nd district, zamboanga sibugay
43 rep. mark llandro mendoza, 4th district, batangas 44 rep. abraham kahlil mitra, 2nd district, palawan 45 house speaker propero nograles, 1st district, davao city 46 rep. satur ocampo, bayan muna party list
3rd Edition, 2010
COUNTDOWN 47 rep. philip pichay, 1st district, surigao del sur 48 rep. monica louise prieto-teodoro, 1st district, tarlac 49 rep. roman romulo, lone district, pasig city 50 rep. sharee ann tan, 2nd district, western samar 51 rep. cynthia villar, lone district, las pinas city 52 rep. manuel “way kurat” zamora, 1st district, compostela valley 53 rep. eduardo zialcita, 1st district, paranaque city provincial, p48-59 54 gov. gwen garcia, cebu 55 rep. bongbong marcos, 2nd district, ilocos norte 56 gov. grace padaca, isabela
57 gov. ed panilio, pampanga
69 mayor marides fernando, marikina
58 gov. carlos petilla, leyte
70 mayor alfredo lim, manila
59 gov. vilma santos, batangas
71 councilor aiko melendez, quezon city
60 gov. lray villafuerte, camarines sur local, p60-69 61 mayor nene aguilar, las piñas city 62 vice mayor herbert bautista, quezon city 63 mayor reinaldo bautista, jr., baguio 64 mayor sonny belmonte, quezon city 65 mayor jejomar binay, makati city 66 mayor enrico “recom” echeverri, caloocan city 67 mayor jv ejercito, san juan city 68 mayor roberto eusebio, pasig city
72 vice mayor isko moreno, manila 73 mayor tomas r. osmeña, cebu city 74 mayor jesse robregado, naga
83 gina de venecia 84 former dpwh sec. hermogenes ebdane 85 former mmda chairman bayani fernando 86 atty. felipe gozon 87 gabby lopez 88 edu manzano 89 lani mercado 90 mon-mon mitra
75 mayor eva marie singson-medina, vigan city
91 manny pacquiao
76 councilor s halani soledad, valenzuela city
93 atty. dong puno
77 mayor toby tiangco, navotas
95 dinky soliman
78 mayor fred tiñga, taguig private sector, p70-80 79 jingo bagadion 80 vicki belo
92 manny pangilinan
94 gilbert remulla
96 atty. adel tamano 97 former dnd sec. gilbert teodoro 98 alfred vargas 99 bro. eddie villanueva
81 ben chan
100 jaime augusto zobel de ayala
82 mike defensor
addendum, p81-120
Executive Editor
Editor-in-Chief
Richmond Yang
Adrian Carlo Velasco
Art director
Teks Pabuayon
Editorial Assistants
Marie Laurice Lupoy Jan Michellardi Ylagan
Correspondents Senior Corespondents Jake Verzosa Charmaine Palermo, Mara Reyes Writers
Illustrators Ryan Villamael, Tanya Villanueva
Jenn Aquino, Karen Azupado, Kimberly Chua, Gretchen de Guzman, Junelyn De La Rosa, Julien Matabuena, Michelle Ngu, Upper Viceo
Assistant Media Director Ian Belleza
(ibelleza@octobereighty.com)
Publisher Cheryl Feliciano Managing director Harvie De Baron Business Development Director Cristina Chua Media and Marketing Director Heinz Ngo
Media Managers Mario Alaman Monica Alfonso Paelo Pedrajas Michelle Villanueva
Directors Judy Ang, Leah Aquino, Arianna Gimenez, Cristina Gonzalez, Alexis Langlois, Matthew Langlois, Finance Manager Christopher Atienza
magazine October Eighty Publications, Inc. 5F Agustin 1 Building, F. Ortigas Jr. Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines Telephone: (632) 631-9991 to 95 Fax: (632) 635-4455 E-mail: corporate@octobereighty.com http://www.octobereighty.com http://twitter.com/100magazine
is published quarterly by October Eighty Publications, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Copyright Š 2010 October Eighty Publications, Inc. Printed in the Republic of the Philippines. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced in any manner without permission from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed by the authors in this magazine are not necessarily those of October Eighty Publications, Inc. Unsolicited manuscripts and images, which the publisher assumes no responsibility, will not be returned unless accompanied by self-addressed, stamped envelopes.
correspondents
Jake Verzosa Jake Verzosa (b. 1979, Philippines) is a freelance photographer based in Manila. His work as a successful editorial and commercial photographer has given him a chance to expand his craft and has taken him to outside destinations around the region. He has traveled extensively around Southeast Asia and considers his documentaries and portraits as his personal work.
jenn aquino wants to pursue photography while being in the marketing profession. She is a Japanese enthusiast who hopes for a better Philippines.
CHRISTOPHER CORNEJO Christopher Cornejo likes exploring many of his budding talents while onboard ships which take him almost around the world. He was born for the thrills of travel and passionately appreciates the arts and world cultures. With the world as his playground and an excellent camera by his side, his travels always inspire him to capture wonderful places, people, events and enveloping moments.
kimberly chua Kimberly Chua is 21 and currently working at a BTL ad agency as an account handler. When she’s not busy with work, she likes to dabble with photography and organize shoots with her friends. She enjoys spontaneous road trips and dreams of travelling around the world someday.
gretchen de guzman graduated cum laude from the University of Santo Tomas with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Arts. She now works as an Account Executive at a local Public Relations firm.
junelyn de la rosa Writes freelance and habituates creative writing to adolescents when she is not running off to quaint little cafes, scouting for good books or “scribbling” in dogeared notebooks. She favors Chomsky, Bellow, Friedman, Rushdie, Dostoevsky, Dickens, Mishima, Woolf, Simone de Beauvoire, Anais Nin and Sylvia Plath. Her other interests are semantics, international politics, languages, literature, philosophy and mysticism.
michelle ngu is a Communication Arts graduate of the Univeristy of Santo Tomas and a Gawad USTetika Rector’s Literary Awardee in 2009. She is a freelance writer, coordinator, and a permanent “/” as her versatility calls for multiplicity. She is currently involved in the independent film industry.
julien matabuena has given up trying to correct people when they mistake her name for Juliet. When she’s not bumming around doing nothing, she writes, tries her hand at photography, reads Murakami novels and listens to music. She is inexplicably attached to Manila.
mara reyes Mara Reyes is a fashion stylist and a designer who is greatly influenced by street culture and avant garde art. She took fine arts in UP Dilliman and majored in painting. She is currently part of an indie clothing line in Cubao Expo, THE, a line that concentrates on t-shirts designed by different local graffiti artists and graphic designers. Visit www. theworldpeacemovement.blogspot.com.
CHARMAINE PALERMO “Putting things together to create a look is my art. Fortunately it is also my job, so I earn while I do the thing that I love most. That’s enough reason for me to get up everyday with a grateful heart.”
tanya villanueva Xeres Tanya is an almost graduate of the University of the Philippine College of Fine Arts major in Painting. Aside from paint, she uses clay, plaster and fake flowers for her art projects. She would love to work with marshmallow icing and porcelain for her future works. She is currently living vicariously through books and blogs.
ryan villamael “I am more interested in the structure of things, the little details within a composition, the interior complexities that sum up the whole, and how the materials I use come to play with space. My works reflect the flat and the tangible, the bold and empty, the mundane and the fiction and, the ideas of pop meets folk. [Perhaps], this is my holy ground, to play with things that function as art in the making.”
loreto zara, jr. currently works as an editor in an outsourcing company and has long been looking at Philippine politics as a dynamic and salient learning environment. He has served as a government intern at the Department of Transporation and Communication (DOTC) upon finishing high school.
12 \
I AM A
VISIONARY 100 names to reckon with in the 2010 Philippine elections
/ ni na dt i ov ni da ul a l s <1> secretary
lito atienza Department of Environment and Natural Resources Like the bright-colored paisleys that are his signature garb, senatorial aspirant and former Environment secretary Jose “Lito” Livioko Atienza, Jr.’s illustrious political history is just as flamboyant and provocative to all and sundry especially to his wizened pugilistic critics. He commenced his political foray by lambasting the dictatorial Marcos regime consequently fleeing for his life during the Plaza Miranda bombing in 1971. Years later, as mayor of Manila, he instigated sociodevelopment projects and the rehabilitation of the city’s pockmarked streets and facilities. In 2007, Atienza’s appointment as Environment Secretary sparked stentorian outrage and rabid disgust from environmentalists and critics since Atienza’s track record of closing the Arroceros park and building a new campus on the historical Mehan gardens does not actually speak much for hi credibility much less for “sterling qualifications.” Finally, his outdated opinions and despotic moves of banning free contraception in a city bursting at the seams with unfed denizens placed him on the website of BBC and earned him the collective gasp of disapproval from the young, literate majority.— June de la rosa
2 agnes devanadera
3 ace durano
Department of Justice Secretary
Department of Tourism Secretary
AGNES DEVANADERA currently holds the position of Department of Justice Secretary and Solicitor General. Before assuming the Justice Secretary position, she served as Mayor of Sampaloc, Quezon from 1988 to 1997. She was also the national president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines from 1995 to 1998. Recently, Devanadera was vocal on her intentions to run for public office and has already confirmed that she will be taking the place of her sister as a congressional candidate in Quezon on the impending 2010 Elections. With her imminent political bid, Devanadera will still maintain her position as Justice secretary and expressed that her political bid will not be a cause of interference on her current work come the campaign period. —Kimberly chua
JOSEPH FELIX MARI H. DURANO, better known as Ace Durano, is the current Secretary of the Department of Tourism. He graduated from the University of Redlands in California with a degree in Asian Studies. Before he became the secretary of Tourism, he was already a member of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, the Philippine Military Academy, and is also a Lieutenant Colonel for the Reserve Forces of the Philippine Air Force. His political career started as a member of the 11th Congress of the House of Representatives. As a secretary, Ace is best known for his efforts to continue the “I Love Philippines! Biyahe Na!” project. His other remarkable projects include the beautification of Rizal Park and the Ginintuang Pamana Project. —KC
I L L U S T R AT O R TA N YA V I L L A N U E VA
4 francisco duque iii
5 oscar inocentes
Department of Health Secretary
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman
FRANCISCO DUQUE III is the Department of Health’s incumbent Secretary. In 2001, he was appointed as the president and CEO of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). Under his PhilHealth direction, he was able to successfully put into action the enrollment of 5.9 million families as recipients under President Arroyo’s Sponsored Program of 2004. It also became the No. 1 showcase of the administration program in terms of social development and poverty alleviation. As the Secretary of the Department of Health, he has implemented various health advocacies, programs and events with the aim of conveying the message of taking care of one’s health and safety. Duque took his Bachelor of Science and Doctorate in Medicine at the University of Santo Tomas. —KC
OSCAR INOCENTES took over the position as the newly appointed chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) last November 25, 2009. He has an impressive track record that includes receiving two Presidential Awards for having successfully convicting the “Big Four” kidnap for ransom gang in the ‘60s and the suspects in the Maggie Dela Riva rape case. He also once served as an assistant city fiscal and later Quezon City Regional Trial Court. As the newly appointed chairman, he disregards the negative comments thrown his way about him being a neophyte on the operations of the agency. He vowed to continue the existing programs of the MMDA, left by his predecessor, Bayani Fernando. Some of the issues he’s intent to work on are the issues in single ticketing system and sidewalk vendors, among others. —KC
6 ronnie puno Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary RONALDO V. PUNO is a graduate of the Ateneo de Manila University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. He then had his masteral credits from John Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies. Not limiting himself to the political ring, his remarkable record also includes the fields of business, media and public relations, diplomacy and public administration. During the time of 1989 to 1991, Puno went on to become the first Filipino to work as senior political consultant at the esteemed Black, Manafort, Stone and Kelly firm. Puno initially planned to run as VP in the May 2010 Elections under the administration party Lakas Kampi CMD but withdrew his political bid and instead, chose to continue his term at the DILG. —KC
<7> DIRECTOR GENERAL
boboy syjuco
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Before he became director general for TESDA, Augusto “Boboy” Syjuco, Jr. was twice elected as Representative of the 2nd District of Iloilo in 1998 and 2001. His major legislations include RA 9189 or the Overseas Voting Act (OVA) and RA 9225, Philippine Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act of 2003. In 2004, he became a Cabinet Member and the Director General for TESDA. At TESDA, he established a critical paradigm shift at TESDA, centering on pro-active job-skills matching. He is now concurrently the Chairman of the Development Bank of the Philippines and was also elected Vice President of the 1971 Constitutional Convention.— gretchen de guzman
/ si ne dn ia vt ie d u a l s <8> senator
noynoy aquino Liberal Party, Presidential Candidate Touted by the media establishment and the local tinseltown as the “answer” to the muchneeded “spring cleaning” after a long drawnout period of tensions, divergences and moral depravations in the political landscape, presidential hopeful Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III is extolled for his whistle-clean “straight-as-a-pin” reputation albeit apparently miniscule or lack of tangible accomplishments when he was in Congress or in the Senate. Noynoy served as Congressman for the 2nd District of Tarlac province and was re-elected twice from 1998 to 2006 while he took the senatorial seat in 2007. Backed by both powerful instruments and propped up by the masses’ unerring (or perennially erring) sentimentality towards his parents—EDSA martyr Ninoy Aquino and former President and democratic icon Corazon Aquino, Noynoy Aquino continues to lead in election polls and surveys much to the satisfaction of the Liberal Party which he represents. Indeed, it would appear that this bachelor is genetically inclined to be morally upright but the question is: Would he be up to the gargantuan task of steering an ailing nation now on its last breath or would he simply be another putz who unwillingly or willingly plunged into power? —Jdlr
9 sen. chiz escudero
I L L U S T R AT i O N b y T V
10 sen. jinggoy estrada
Independent
Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino (PMP), Senatorial Re-electionist
The apotheosis of Obamaesque cool: Speeches dripping in garrulous eloquence delivered in a superb monotone and a nonexistent pouch in a world teeming with pot bellied, balding and sputtering old politicos. A double-take would be seemingly out-of-place if one is to react to Francis Joseph “Chiz” Escudero’s “meteoric rise in the nation’s consciousness” since he became an articulate senator and “most admired TV personality” in the last elections. Chiz Escudero bolted the National People’s Coalition, his political party of 11 years and ditched his presidential desires for 2010. The masses cheered him on for his integrity, grit and his much-avowed compunction. But some denizens question his integrity for ditching a political party and points to a hush-hush falling-out with other party members or more likely as political sour-graping or tantrum after he didn’t get the financial backing for his presidential campaign. —Jdlr
Senator JINGGOY Estrada, actor and dutiful eldest son to former President Joseph “Erap” Estrada, runs anew as senator for the PMP in the coming May elections. Like his old man, Estrada started his political ambitions as mayor of San Juan managing the difficulties and providing the quotidian wants of a typical urban city. With him at the helm, San Juan was adjudged the most peaceful and one of the most progressive municipalities in the country a few years ago. Later as senator, he authored tons of bills and resolutions—a number of which focus on the betterment of overseas workers, freedom of expression and youth welfare. Unfortunately, such work is propitiously shadowed and tarred by his much-publicized exchange of “verbal torpedoes” with erstwhile political ally and family friend but now equally invective-spewing nemesis: Senator Panfilo Lacson. —Jdlr
/senate 11 sen. richard gordon
Bagumbayan, Presidential Candidate
Senator Gordon has been known for his economy-driven governance as former Olongapo City mayor and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairman. He has championed the alleviation of crime and the organization of the transport system in Olongapo.
He has led the development of the former US Naval base in Subic Bay. As former Tourism secretary, Sen. Gordon initiated the branding of the Philippines through the “Wow Philippines” campaign. He has also remained a volunteer of the Philippine Red Cross for over four
decades and is currently heading the organization’s national efforts in community service. His vision as presidential candidate under the Bagong Bayan movement is to act as a “transformer” for change. — Carlo Velasco
< 12 > senator
loren legarda Nationalist People’s Coalition, Vice Presidential Candidate Without doubt the most impeccably turned out politician equipped with the same persistent ambitions of political power, Lorna Regina “Loren” Legarda has something to smile about these days. Recent polls have shown her scores rise resulting to a visibly close fight with Sen. Mar Roxas for vice president in 2010. A newfound ally of presidential aspirant Sen. Manny Villar, Legarda depends on her strong built-up reputation as a critically-aimed broadcast journalist to leverage her current campaign. In recent years, she has positioned herself and graced our television screens as a staunch and fearless advocate of human rights bringing in rebels back to the fold, espoused the debate on climate change by planting millions of trees under the sweltering heat of the sun, and pushed for the rights of women and children in her well-orchestrated political campaign. —Jan Ylagan
11 sen. jamby
madrigal
Independent, Presidential Candidate
18 \
Born from a family of public servants, Maria Ana Consuelo “Jamby” Madrigal has been exposed to public service. Her grandfather is Justice Jose Abad Santos, one of the country’s national heroes and her granduncle is Assemblyman Pedro Abad Santos, founder of the Socialist Party of the Philippines.
I L L U S T R AT i O N b y T V
Madrigal has always strived for the protection of the environment and human rights, especially those of women and children. She was able to enact the Magna Carta for Women. Moreover, she authored and was able to pass the Anti-Child Pornography Law. She is currently the
chairperson of Committee on Environment and Natural Resources; Committee on Youth, Women, and Family Relations; Committee on Cultural Communities; and the Committee on Peace, Unification, and Reconciliation. —marice lupoy
/ si ne dn ia vt ie d u a l s
< 14 > senator
kiko pangilinan Liberal Party
“IT WAS IN OUR HOME that my ideals of service were nurtured,” says Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan. His parents are his heroes. Born to a middle-class family with nine children, Pangilinan, who is fifth in the brood, describes growing up as “masayang magulo (chaotic but happy).” Pangilinan earned his Bachelor of Arts in English and Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Philippines (UP), and a Masters in Public Administration from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. He served as chairperson of the UP Student Council in 1986. In 1987, he became the first student-member of the UP Board of Regents with voting rights. Early in his law career, Pangilinan worked with the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) and handled pro-bono cases. It was, however, in 1996 during his marriage to “Megastar” Sharon Cuneta when he caught the attention of nation. In 2005, as Vice Chairman of the Liberal Party, he and other members of the party called for
20 \
the resignation of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Two years later, however, Pangilinan's political career seemed uncertain. Disenchanted with the administration that rose to power because of EDSA 2 and unconvinced that the opposition offered a real alternative, Pangilinan decided to run for re-election as an independent candidate. “The independent run was the most important decision I have ever made as a national leader. Our politics has become inutile, bankrupt and mindless. In 2007, the need to find ways of engaging the electorate was urgent,” he said. Pangilinan is the youngest senator to become majority leader in 70 years. In the 12th Congress, he distinguished himself as one of the Senate’s top performers. Pangilinan's major legislative accomplishments include the Philippine Teachers Professionalization Act, AntiDomestic Violence Bill, and the Judiciary Compensation and Modernization Act. Another significant contribution is the law
A U T H O R K A R E N A Z U PA R D O P H O T O G R A P H E R T E K S PA B U AY O N
1
2
3
1 “INDIE” A Campaign Narrative, authored by Pangilinan. / 2 A 100 -peso bill was given by a supporter during a campaign sortie in the province. /
3
Original
prints of ‘The Illustrated London News’ depicting Filipino life, dated December 26, 1857.
amending the Balik-Turo Program to address the shortage of qualified teachers in the country. The senator also sponsored the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, which denotes that children in conflict with the law are placed in programs and not in jail. As part of his commitment to development and the youth, Pangilinan spearheaded the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO), a project that recognizes the contributions of youth groups to their communities. Pangilinan believes that the country has reason to hope because of the emergence of a “progressive
and results-oriented public sector leaders with integrity, proactive leadership and with a commitment to reform and genuine change.” He cites that out of an estimated 45 million voters, 30 million are between the ages of 18 and 35, who have the power to make political and electoral change happen. “We have enough reason to hope. We have enough reason to act on these hopes and when we do, the genuine change we all seek will finally see the light of day, and yes, by all means, in our lifetime.” —With a report from Carlo Velasco
/ 21
/ si ne dn ia vt ie d u a l s 15 sen. bong revilla Lakas Kampi CMD
Before he became famouS as Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr., he was born Jose Marie Mortel Bautista. Following his father’s footsteps first as a film star and now as a public servant, Revilla became the youngest Vice Governor of Cavite in 1995.
He served as Chairman of the Videogram Regulatory Board from 2001 to 2004. In 2004, he became the youngest member of the Senate, serving as the chairman of three committees—Public Works, Public Information and Mass Media and
the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on the Optical Media Board. He also served as Chairman of the Videogram Regulatory Board which protects intellectual rights. — Gretchen De Guzman
< 16 > senator
mar roxas Liberal Party, Vice Presidential Candidate Recently hitched in a very-much publicized series of happenings all over the country to well-known ABS-CBN broadcast journalist Korina Sanchez, Manuel “Mar” Roxas aspires for the second top spot in the national elections after backing down from the presidential race and declaring his support for Sen. Noynoy Aquino. Consequently, he was lauded for his humility and lambasted by critics for his humongously expensive move to earn the “sympathy” ergo direly-needed points which have proven quite elusive even with the romance with critically-acclaimed Ms. Sanchez. Notwithstanding, Senator Roxas comes with a strong political lineage being the son of former Senator Gerry Roxas and grandson of former President Manuel Roxas. Likewise, he has quite an impressive dossier of achievements from his image-making “palengke” program, and legislations on consumer protection, education and ICT building, and trade and investment. —Jdlr I L L U S T R AT i O N b y T V
17 sen. miriam defensor santiago
18 sen. antonio trillanes iv
People’s Reform Party, Senatorial Re-electionist
Magdalo
Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago is a recipient of the Magsaysay Award for government service. She was very determined to fight corruption in the government, especially during her work as an immigration commissioner. In 1996, Santiago was named one of “The 100 Most Powerful Women in the World” by The Australian magazine. Santiago’s academic records are as impressive as her political achievements. United Nations has listed her as one of the distinguished and highly-qualified experts in International Law. She was also the first female editor-in-chief of The Philippine Collegian after 50 years of male supremacy. —ML
Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV was born and raised in Caloocan City. He initially entered into public service when he became a cadet in 1991 at the Philippine Military Academy, graduating as cum laude in 1995 with a degree in BS Naval System Engineering. After graduation, he was posted for sea duty for five years during which his unit went on maritime law enforcement operations. Trillanes has been awarded 23 assorted merit medals and badges for his service to the country. In 2007, he successfully launched a nationwide campaign from his prison cell and won a seat in the Philippine Senate after more than 10 million people elected him into office. —GDG
< 19 > senator
manny villar Nacionalista Party, Presidential Candidate
I L L U S T R AT i O N b y T V
20 sen. migz zubiri Lakas Kampi CMD
Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, having been elected as Senate Majority Leader, is the youngest person to hold that position since the First Congress in 1946 shortly after World War II. Prior to this, he served the 3rd District of Bukidnon for nine years in Congress. As a lawmaker, he was the principal author of major laws
such as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, the Rent Control Act, Wildlife Conservation Act and the Biofuels Act of 2006. Aside from his position as Majority Leader, he chairs the Committee on Rules and Committee on Cooperatives. He is also known as a champion for environmental concern. —GDG
Manuel “Manny” Villar was born in Moriones, Tondo, Manila. He learned the value of hard work and diligence from an early age while he aided his mother in selling seafood at a market in Divisoria in order to support his and his siblings’ education. Villar received his Undergraduate and Master’s Degree in Business Administration and Accountancy at the University of the Philippines, Diliman. From these humble beginnings, Villar rose and entered into public service as Congressman in 1992. In 1998, he became the Speaker of the House of Representatives. In 2001, he became senator and would later on become Senate President during the third regular session of the 13th congress. Thus, Villar became the first post-war public official to have held the positions of Speaker of the House as well as Senate President. Many of the laws he authored and passed had economic and enterprising thrusts. These include RA 9178 Barangay Micro Business Enterprises Act, RA 8289 New Magna Carta for Small and Medium Enterprises, Retail Trade Liberization Act, and the new Central Bank Act. Villar received the Agora Award for Marketing Management (1989) and the Most Outstanding CPA from the Institute of Public Accountants (1990). He was also recognized by the University of the Philippines for his exemplary achievements and public service, naming him the Most Distinguished Alumnus—the highest recognition given by the university. —GDG
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s < 21 > representative
joseph emilio abaya
1st Ditrict, Cavite Liberal Party Congressman Joseph Emilio “Jun” Abaya has long been serving the country even before entering politics. For 20 years, he served the Philippine Navy as a career naval officer. Abaya never intended to be in the Navy. He was an Electrical Engineering student at the University of the Philippines when his father, a constabulary officer then, asked him to take the Philippine Military Academy Exam. As a son, he always believes that his father would not suggest anything that would be of his detriment so he took the exam and did quite well. He entered the Academy and was chosen by the government to pursue his studies at the United States Naval Academy. He graduated from Annapolis in 1988. In 2004, he decided to enter politics. He was serving the country then, and politics is just a different form of service to the country. Again, he was greatly
24 \
influenced by his father who was on his third term as Cavite’s congressman. During his term, he funded and gave priority to education, infrastructures such as roads, water supply, pathways and food bridges for the people living in the coastal areas, and health. Abaya also serves as the secretary-general of the Liberal Party. He considers this position as a valuable opportunity and learning experience because he gets to meet people from all walks of life. Politics for him has been a great learning experience and a wonderful opportunity to help the people. He lives by the day and believes that any opportunity that comes his way is worth undertaking, especially when it is for the betterment of humanity. The great grandson of General Emilio Aguinaldo is determined to serve the people but keeping his life simple and humble. — ML
P H O T O G R A P H E R pa e l o p e d r a j a s
< 22 > representative
juan edgardo angara Lone District, Aurora Hopeful, creative and compassionate—three words that best describe Aurora Congressman Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara. Angara’s first exposure to politics was when his father Sen. Edgardo Javier Angara ran for Senate during the 1987 elections. He would tag along during campaigns and interact with people. He had always thought of entering politics, but it only came to life when his aunt ended her term as Aurora’s representative. Angara decided to step up, as he saw an opportunity to help his kababayans. His profession as a lawyer also helped him with the path he has chosen. “Taking up law opens up lots of possibilities, lots of careers. Politics is one of them,” he shares. Filed over a hundred bills, Angara is aiming to make laws
for the betterment of lives. In fact, he was able to pass laws such as the PERA (Personal Equity Retirement Account) Law which is an incentive for people to save; UP Charter Law which allows the state university professors to have a bigger allowance; and Civil Service Reform Law which gives higher salaries for government workers. He was also able to pass the Cultural Heritage Law, which preserves old buildings, works of national artists and various architectural and archaeological works. In fact, the congressman is an enthusiast of culture and the arts. He supports young Filipino contemporary artists by collecting their works. As representative, Angara envisions Aurora to be an environmentally-friendly province with smart people enjoying a good quality of life. —ML
/ 25
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s 23 ma. rachel
arenas
Representative, 3rd District, Pangasinan
Much like the socialite Rosemarie “Baby” Arenas, daughter Ma. Rachel Jimenez Arenas is a philanthropist and entrepreneur herself. She is the incumbent representative of the 3rd District of Pangasinan, having won in 2007. Arenas is the first woman to win a congressional seat in the province
and is the author of House Bill (HB) No. 4583 also known as the “Anti-hoarding Act of 2008” and HB No. 01721, which proposes that the power of the purse be given back to Congress—that appropriations pass through the House for review and approval. The representative is also one of
the signatories of House Resolution 1109 calling for a Constituent assembly (Con-ass) to amend the Philippine Constitution. She seeks for a second term in the House of Representatives in the upcoming elections, running under the banners of Lakas Kampi CMD and Biskeg na Pangasinan. —MICHELLE NGU
< 24 > representative
dato
arroyo 1st District, Camarines Sur Presidential son Diosdado Ignacio Jose Maria “Dato” Macapagal Arroyo is the current representative of Camarines Sur’s 1st District. His development program for the ten towns of the district focuses primarily on irrigation, infrastructures and job opportunities. The Ateneo de Naga Legal Management graduate will run for a second term in Congress in the 2010 elections to represent the newly created legislative district of Camarines Sur under Lakas Kampi CMD. Several municipalities of the former 1st and 2nd districts namely Libmanan, Minabalac, Pamplona, Pasacao, San Fernando, Gainza and Milaor composes the current 2nd district. —MN
I L L U S T R AT i O N b y T V
26 \
< 25 > representative
teddy casiño Representative, Bayan Muna Party List
Since taking office in 2004, Bayan Muna Party List Representative Teodoro “Teddy” Casiño steers clear of labels ascribed to members of the legislature. “I don’t think of myself as a leader, but as an activist who happens to be in Congress,” he says. “I can say what other congressmen cannot say because their position is important to them. My role as an opposition [congressman] is to expose the issues to remedy whatever disasters government has caused.” As Bayan Muna representative for the past six years, Casiño has made an impact in the political mainstream for his work in good governance, people empowerment, justice and human rights, educational reform and economic nationalism. As part of Bayan Muna, he vows to continue “opposing the anti-people, unjust, corrupt, rotten and oppressive structures and politics that have gripped the nation.” “There are those who view the left as a political force who should be left, as it was, to the sidelines. They should recognize that the left is already part of the mainstream.” Bayan Muna has filed over 100 house bills and 300 resolutions from the 12th to the 14th Congress. These “pro-people” reforms include strengthening the Public Attorney’s Office, overseas absentee voting and increased government subsidies for health and education. “Things are getting brighter for Philippine politics, especially for progressives,” says Casiño.
He also has filed bills such as the Whistleblower Protection and Awards (House Bill No. 1715) and Free Open Source Software Policy (House Bill No. 1716). Like many young people who witnessed the events of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, Casiño became drawn to social reform. As a high school student, he volunteered for the the National Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL). In college, he became editor of the student paper, The UPLB Perspective, and later national president of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP). After graduation, Casiño joined the labor movement and became part of the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU). “I wanted to be an organizer, but they gave me a writing job.” He recalls being assigned to write speeches and news releases for the organization. Casiño eventually wrote a regular column for Business World. In 1999, he was elected secretary general of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, the largest alliance of progressive people's organizations in the country. Two years later, he would become one of the principal figures in EDSA 2. “Being an activist is a 24-hour thing. There are no weekends, no eight-hour day. No retirement. It’s a commitment, a vocation. It’s not a job, not an honorary position,” he says. “The changes you want are so big. You have to give everything. In a way, it consumes you.” According to Casiño, he
PHOTO by TP
misses commuting via public transport and wearing comfortable jeans, a T-shirt and a pair of sandals to work, which are not part of the Congressional dress code. One thing that hasn't changed is their family's lifestyle. “Conscious decisions, or what we call simpleng pamumuhay (simple living), we still maintain.” Casiño is married to Ruth Cervantes, also a former CEGP president. They have two children, 6-year-old Elian and 2-year-old Emilio. To ensure good governance and meaningful reforms, Casiño asserts
that public participation is key. “The public needs to be more involved. We need to create conditions so that more people can take part in running government.” Bayan Muna is confident that it will be able to garner a significant number of party list votes in the 2010 elections. “More people are also beginning to recognize the left as a voice worth listening to. We believe there is hope, there is a better fut vure for all Filipinos; and these are within every Filipino's reach. The people's interests come first.”—KA, with a report from CV
/ 27
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s < 26 > representative
timmy chipeco 2nd District, Laguna JUSTIN “TIMMY” CHIPECO was born in a family of politicians. While waiting for the Bar Exam results, the young representative remembers, he worked for his father as a researcher at the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal. Through this, he was able to experience government work firsthand. Chipeco ran for Laguna’s 2nd District congressional seat in 2004. He considers his appearance on national television as the highlight of his campaign. The gutsy young man appeared on television thrice to speak for the late Fernando Poe, Jr. During his term, Chipeco was able to fund schools and grant scholarships, which he considers as one of his greatest achievements. He also funds hospitals and provide a “trust fund” for local patients’ medical needs. Today, his main goal is to solve the traffic problem in Laguna for the progress of his district and other nearby towns. He is planning to build a by-pass road and a viaduct in Laguna Lake. Chipeco believes that, with better roads, prosperity and development will come to Laguna. When asked about his personal hero, Chipeco confidently answers: “Of course, I look up to my dad. But at the end of the day, you must create your own image, your own style and your own personality.” —ML PHOTO by TP
28 \
< 27 > representative
maria isabelle climaco-salazar
mark cojuangco 5th District, Pangasinan
1st District, Zamboanga City Maria Isabelle “Beng” Climaco-Salazar is both educator and legislator. She is an English major from the Ateneo de Zamboanga and holds a master’s degree in Pastoral Ministry from the Ateneo de Manila University. She started her political career as a councilor in 1998, eventually becoming vice mayor in 2004 just like her late father Jolly Climaco. Rep. Climaco-Salazar
< 28 > representative
then became the first woman to represent the 1st District of Zamboanga City in 2007. A strong advocate for women’s rights, child welfare, family and culture, she has authored House Bill 797, proposing a magna carta for women, among others. She was recently inducted into the Liberal Party, running for a second term in the House of Representatives in May 2010. —MN
Mark O. Cojuangco is the incumbent representative of Pangasinan’s 5th District. He is a member of the Nationalist People’s Coalition founded by his father, former Tarlac governor and tycoon Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco, Jr. He graduated from De La Salle University and holds a post-graduate degree in Business Economics from the University of
Asia and the Pacific. Cojuangco was also involved in a controversial debate with anti-nukes early this year when he proposed that the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant be re-commissioned and put into operation as planned during the Marcos era. Cojuangco warns of a power crisis come 2012 and insists nuclear power is the safest and most practical measure. —MN
< 29 > representative
< 30 > representative
Bayan Muna Party List
1st District, South Cotabato and General Santos City
neri colmenares
ATTY. Neri Javier ColmEnares is Bayan Muna Party List’s third member in the 14th Philippine Congress. He was one of youngest political detainees during the martial law era and remains an activist to this day as a human rights lawyer. An Economics major from San Beda and a graduate of UP College of Law, he is now completing his Doctorate in Law from the
University of Melbourne. He had been Bayan Muna’s general counsel since 2000, secretary general of the National Union of Peoples’ lawyers (NUPL), main organizer of the Counsels for the Defense of Liberties (CODAL), and Amnesty International’s universal jurisdiction expert in the country. He is Bayan Muna’s second nominee for Congress in 2010. —MN
darlene custodio
Darlene MAGNOLIA R. Antonio-Custodio, famed as boxing champ Manny Pacquiao’s successful congresional opponent in 2007, is in her last term as the representative of the 1st District of South Cotabato. She holds a B.S. Management degree from De La Salle University and a Master’s degree in Culinary Arts from the revered Le Cordon Bleu in London. She is also an entrepreneur and comes from a family of public servants. Aside from being the granddaughter of former Senators
Gaudencio and Magnolia Antonio, her parents Aldelbert and Lualhati R. Antonio held mayoral and congressional seats in both General Santos City and South Cotabato. She has also served as the House Minority Deputy Leader in the 13th Congress of the Philippines and has filed her certificate of candidacy for the mayoral seat in South Cotabato for the upcoming elections, running under the banner of National People’s CoalitionAchievers with Integrity Movement (NPC-AIM). —MN
/ 29
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s < 31 > representative
mauricio domogan Lone District, Baguio Growing up as an orphan, Mauricio Domogan fought his way hard to be where he is right now. A native of a very remote sitio in the boundary of Abra and Mountain Province, he had to hike two kilometers barefooted in order to go to school everyday. It was in 1965 when he first came to Baguio to study college. From their place, he had to walk 9-12 hours just to arrive to the bus station going to Baguio City. He was part of the school’s rondalla band which helped him support himself in college. In 1969, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree and decided to pursue law. His uncle sold his carabao just to help him get into law school. After law school, Domogan received several offers to be a counsel for some of Northern Luzon’s biggest mining companies. He refused the offers, decided to paddle his own canoe and pursued private practice. Domogan’s political career started as a councilor of Baguio City. He had admitted to have an inclination towards politics,
but he never dreamed of being a politician. In 1992, he was elected as vice-mayor of Baguio City and then became the city mayor when the incumbent mayor was disqualified. During his first term, he headed the rehabilitation of Baguio City from the 1992 earthquake. Drainages and access roads were all fixed. After three terms of being the mayor, he decided to run as congressman of Baguio City. He is now on his last term. Drawing inspiration from his hardships, Domogan’s projects affect the needy. For instance, he started an educational financial assistance program, which gives Php14,000 for every deserving student each year. Domogan envisions Baguio as a sustaining and developing city with complete basic facilities and balanced environment, being enjoyed by very peaceful and Godfearing constituents. He believes that there is hope for all of us, especially when we all learn how to laugh at our problems and enjoy the difficulties of our work. —ML PHOTO by TP
32 Rep. eileen
ermita-buhain 1st District, Batangas
30 \
Eileen Ermita-Buhain is a politician, licensed real estate broker and entrepreneur. She is the daughter of Executive Secretary Eduardo R. Ermita and wife of former Olympic swimmer and current Games and Amusement Board Chairman Eric Buhain.
Ermita-Buhain is a graduate of Psychology from De La Salle University and has been an advocate for women and the youth during her three terms. She has co-authored the approved House Bill 263 providing strengthened measures foster care for neglected
children, among others. She is on her third and final term in Congress, a position her father will run for in May. No announcement has been made regarding her plans for the upcoming elections. —MN
< 33 > representative
rex gatchalian
Congressman Rex Gatchalian is your quintessential young politician— driven and ideal. For the citizens of Valenzuela City, he is their charismatic leader who stops by every night to engage in various district events.
1st District, Valenzuela
To himself, however, Gatchalian hammers his personality as boring. “I’m a creature of routine,” Gatchalian says. “I like things the way I do them...I don’t like tinkering with my routine; I don’t like changing things too much. I’m not spontaneous.” With a background in business and hotel management, Gatchalian relates how his life back then was boxed inside the four corners of his office. Now, he is living the ever so fluid life of a politico, with minute-by-minute schedule changes. His new position challenged the routinary Gatchalian to step out of the box and land his toes on new territories. “When people are relying on you, especially the electorate that gave you that mandate, you have to be more flexible,” Gatchalian says. Indeed, passion for politics and service is what drives this young congressman forward everyday. “When people entrusts you that vote, it’s a great feeling. You have to be passionate, you have to keep that fire that they saw in you burning.” Thus, he spends day in and day out working for and with the people who gave him the position he now holds. When asked about his vision for the country, Gatchalian is more than optimistic saying that the Philippines has the capacity to be a major player in Asia with its resources and talented citizens. He adds that in order to achieve this, Filipinos must learn to be selfsufficient. “[Self-sufficiency] begins with ourselves. With us believing that we can,” Gatchalian says. “Leave your comfort zone, take the plunge and don’t look back. Swim with the current or, in this case, against the current and you hope for the best. At the end of the day, when you’re in the other side of the coastline, you realize that a lot more people jumped with you and actually made a difference.”—JY
PHOTO by TP
/ 31
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s < 34 > representative
raul t. gonzalez, jr. Lone District, Iloilo City
32 \
Iloilo City Lone District Representative Raul Gonzalez, Jr. may only be on his second term, but he had to learn the ropes of politics since childhood. Growing up in a family of politicians—his grandfathers were chief executives of their respective municipalities; his parents Pacita and Raul Sr. were members of the House of Representatives—-prepared him to be a visionary. Rep. Gonzalez candidly shared a story of how political his life is. “When I was a kid, I asked my grandmother why she named her sons Sergio, Raul and Mario. She told me that they were names that are easy for voters to remember.” He admitted that he was hoping he would not be dragged into politics. “I was a reluctant candidate,” he admits. “My constituents know about my reluctance. They hardly even know me because I was raised in Manila.” Giving up his privacy is one reason why he did not want to enter politics. He confessed that he is not as open as his parents, who are quite apparent and reflective with regard to people. ”My parents are ‘Type A’ personalities,” he jokes. But when it comes to politics, he is open with different platforms and advocacies, even the controversial ones. Gonzalez is a known supporter of Charter Change (Cha-Cha). He is passionate
about Cha-Cha not because he has hunger for power, wants an increase in pork barrel and desires for term extensions, but because he thinks that our problems in the country is caused by our Constitution. “(Our constitution) encourages frog mentality and self-serving interests,” he shares. In fact, he proudly tells us that he campaigned for the ratification of the Constitution since 1995, even though he was not yet elected as a government official. As a lawmaker, Gonzalez has been the principal author of two bills which have been enacted into law namely: the Book Development Trust Fund Act (RA 9521) and the Real Estate Service Act of the Philippines (RA 9646). RA 9521 seeks to encourage Filipino authors by giving them a Php100-million trust fund grant. RA 9646, on the other hand, sets standards and requirements to the country’s real estate industry. Gonzalez envisions Iloilo City to become one of the premiere cities of the Philippines, five to 10 years into the future. He believes that they can achieve this with sufficient power and water supply. He is also setting a goal to establish colleges and hospitals run by the city government for his less fortunate constituents. As a person and a lawmaker, Gonzalez is determined to give life to his favorite motto which he learned from the Boy Scouts: “Leave the world a better place than when you found it.” —ML
photoS by tP
35 tg guingona Representative, 2nd District, Bukidnon Teofisto de Lara “TG” Guingona III is grandson to former Mindanao Governor Teofisto Guingona, Sr. and son to former Vice President Teofisto Gunigona, Jr. He is a graduate of Economics and Law from the Ateneo de Manila University. An active student leader in his youth, Guingona has been incarcerated at Bicutan Center with prominent oppositionists during the Marcos era. He currently serves as Deputy Minority Floor Leader and Minority representative under the Joint Congressional Power Commission. A member of the National People’s Coalition-United Opposition (NPC-UNO), he recently accepted the Liberal Party’s invitation to run in the senatorial race for the 2010 elections under the leadership of Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.
36 ann hofer Representative, 2nd District, Zamboanga Sibugay A s e l f - c o n f e s s e d a r t l o v e r, Gonzalez painted this picture in May of 1988.
Dulce Ann K. Hofer is the first to represent the 2nd District of Zamboanga Sibugay, the youngest province in the country after its separation from Zambaoanga del Sur in 2001. She is a graduate of the University of the Philippines-National College of Public Administration and Governance. Her father Dr. George T. Hofer is the incumbent governor of Zamboanga Sibugay in his third and final term. She has recently filed her certificate of candidacy for Sibugay’s gubernatorial seat under the banner of Lakas Kapmi CMD while her father will run for mayoralty in the town of Ipil. Her rival for 2010 is Rommel Jalosojos, son of former Zamboanga del Norte Representative Romeo Jalosjos. —MN
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s < 37 > representative
risa hontiveros Akbayan Party List
In these seemingly dark times we live in, it is uplifting to find someone who exudes a quiet sense of hope and positivity. Refined and deeply guided by philosophies, Akbayan Party List Representative Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros-Baraquel incessantly believes that nothing is impossible and that up is the only way to go. Being “political” since the tender age of 12 (she was part of the school council) and having a politically-inclined family, public service, though it was never part of her plan, came to her more as a result of circumstance rather than an accident. It was in her career in research, writing and teaching that she got involved in political organizations. Since the establishment of Akbayan, Hontiveros-Baraquel has cultivated a passion for public service. “Knowing what’s happening, understanding what’s happening and forming an opinion and based on that opinion, trying to find out what can be done— that’s what I’m passionate about,” said Hontiveros-Baraquel who, at the same time, deeply encourages everyone to take a stand and get
34 \
involved with the goings-on of the country. “Let’s get involved and get it right this time. This is the rest of our lives. Let’s get it right.” With her public life revolving around relief sessions and campaign preparations for May, Hontiveros never forgets her top priority: family. Being a mother to her four children is still her no. 1 priority. “I sleep less,” she said, when asked how she balances her public and private life. “It’s how you can make time for all the things that are important,” she adds. “People don’t know this, but half of society really sleep less just to do all the things they need to.” The representative’s everyday way of life is guided by the teachings of her personal heroes Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. “Be true to yourself,” she relays. “In this time of hate and violence, find that thing you’re happy with because happiness really transforms you.” Hontiveros-Baraquel continues and relays this belief to her view of the country and its people right now. “I never truly believed that people are cynical, apathetic and doesn’t care. I believe that people are really changing for the better and things can only get better. There’s no other way to go but up.” —JY
p h o t o g r a p h e r t e k s pa b u ay o n
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s < 38 > representative
< 39 > representative
1st District, Zamboanga del Norte
1st District, Nueva Ecija
cecilia jalosjoscarreon A registered nurse by profession, Representative Cecilia Jalosjos-Carreon is a native of South Cotabato and belongs to the prominent Jalosjos clan in Zamboanga del Norte. She is noted for her achievements in infrastructure and education projects, including the conversion of the Jose Rizal Memorial State College (JRMSC) into a state university and the multi-million worth Zamboanga del Norte corn
postharvest processing and trading center where she has donated Php5-million of her Priority Development Assistance Fund or “pork barrel.” Now on her third term, Jalosjos-Carreon has filed and authored a number of bills aimed at constructing national roads in the municipalities of Piñan, Mutia, Sibutad and high schools in Labason and Polanco. —LORETA ZARA, JR.
< 40 > representative
antonio lagdameo, jr.
36 \
Former governor and member of one of the most powerful political clans in Nueva Ecija, Representative Eduardo Nonato “Edno” Joson now serves his first term as congressman for the 1st District of Nueva Ecija. He has established a national reputation, being a former administrator of the National Food Authority (NFA) during the Estrada administration. He is a steadfast advocate of the
farmers, whom he has dealt with as a native of Central Luzon, considered as the country’s “rice granary.” Joson is recently noted for his criticisms against the administration and his colleagues in the Congress with his bills that include a three-year moratorium on foreign trips of legislators after the solons’ controversial and unofficial travels abroad and his proposed “no work, no pay” scheme. —LZJ
< 41 > representative
milagros magsaysay 1st District, Zambales
2nd District, Davao del Norte Serving as the present administration party (Lakas Kampi CMD) chairperson in Davao del Norte, Representative Lagdameo, Jr. is also a business executive who has shifted his career into politics out of familial affinity to the district’s former congressman, Antonio Floirendo, Jr. In his first term, Lagdameo is noted for his improvements in the City of Panabo where he has pushed for the construction of various high schools, an office of the registry of deeds, and a municipal trial court branch. Along with these is his
eduardo nonato joson
proposed establishment of a special economic zone and Freeport in Samal, known as an Island Garden City. His positive take on the US military bases to which he considers as a means of financial and technical support to the country’s defense machinery has marked amid the Senate’s review of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). Recently, he has allocated a part of his budget for the reforestation of the Tuganay Watershed in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte to boost upland vegetation in his district. —LZJ
Belonging to one of the most prominent political clans in Zambales, Representative Ma. Milagros “Mitos” Magsaysay is on her second term as a congresswoman of the province’s first district. She has taken an excellent course in public service, even earning achievements such as becoming the
most outstanding congresswoman for four consecutive times. Listed in her credentials as a legislator are bills and laws like proposing the cityhood of the municipality of Subic and the National Student Loan Program for the Poor Act and the School Building Program Act filed in 2004. —LZJ
AUTHOR june de la rosa
/
P H O T O G R A P H E R T E K S P A B UA Y ON
< 42 > representative
liza maza Gabriela Party List
Impeccably turned out in snug-looking white separates, a bright fuchsia scarf around her neck adding a splash of color to a no-frills outfitâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Congresswoman and women rights crusader Liza Maza greets our phalanx warmly with the easy confidence and unfazed air of someone who regularly converses with allsorts: battered and displaced women, gays, lesbians and transgenders, OFWs, politicos, activists and the ubiquitous media men. Capping her eight-year tenure as representative of Gabrielaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a women party list espousing equal rights for women and fighting for abused victims, Maza has spoken in 35 countries on women rights and helped craft an impressive dossier of significant laws such as the Anti-trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 (RA 9208), the Juvenile Act of 2006 or the Anti-violence against Women and the Children Act of 2004 (RA 9262) and the Magna Carta of Women. Next year, she is buckling up for a higher office: A seat in the Senate.
Like any other weekday, today is a hectic whirl of events that commenced with a 30-minute yoga at 6 am, breakfast, a string of interviews or meetings and hours at her desk poring over a humongous stack of materials punctuated by occasional sips of scrumptious black Cordillera coffee. Lunch would probably consist of a tuna or chicken sandwich consumed without leaving her spacious teak wooden desk. Her office with its pleasant, pragmatic clutter and the compelling motley gallery of pictures and sketches spewing a vehement narrative for women rights reflects a character farremoved from the ordinary lackadaisical power-mongering politicos whose numerous follies and minnow-brained punditry have been the constant fare and entertainment of scandal junkies. Without batting an eyelash, she weaves a fascinating conversation about politics and her vision of true governance and transparent politics in the country,
/ 37
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s
T h e w a l l s o f M a z a ’s o ff i c e serve as a gallery of pictures and sketches that paint a narrative of her journey as
a
w o m e n ’s r i g h t s a c t i v i s t .
38 \
equal rights for women, to her proletarian, middle-class upbringing in San Pablo, Laguna and the various merits of rock music and books from cheap book sales. Likewise, she visibly twinkles as she talks about how she orchestrated much-lauded fashion shows against former President Estrada and President Arroyo’s Constituent assembly (Con-ass) and how in July, cameras happily clicked away as she sashayed in a gorgeous “statement” terno during the president’s State of the Nation Address.
In a little over an hour, she has impressed this author with her score of cerebral reading— Emile Zola’s Germinal, Karl Marx’s Das Kapital, Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s My Melancholy Whores and John Perkins’ Confessions of an Economic Hit Man. Not surprising to say the least since most of these books are celebrated tomes that lambaste capitalism, oligarchies, corporatocracy and the hapless plight of the downtrodden.
Finally before we skedaddle out of her office, we ask her what keeps her fired up and untrammeled in a community of regurgitated gaffes, gotchas and spindoctoring—she quips that her two grown-up sons and her links to the “grassroots” or the denizens of marginalized battered women who have no “voice” have kept her grounded decades after she found her own voice and became an “accidental activist.”
43 mark llandro mendoza Representative, 4th District, Batangas Son of current Transportation and Communication Secretary and former National Police Chief, Representative Mark Llandro Mendoza, on his first term as a congressman, has already filed numerous bills aimed at the conversion of his district’s provincial roads (especially in the municipalities of Taysan and San Jose) into national roads. His victory over the province’s former Vice Governor Ricky Recto has given him a popular status even
as a political neophyte. Though, he may have been considered as another nitpicky legislator after withdrawing his support for the controversial reproductive health and population control bill (HB 5043). Even so, he has notably filed bills of national application, such as the Magna Carta for the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the proposed transfer of the Philippine Coast Guard to the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC). —LZJ
44 abraham kahlil mitra Representative, 2nd District, Palawan
A degree holder of Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Management from San Beda College, Representative Abraham Kahlil Mitra has a meaningful amount of work experience before becoming a legislator for the 2nd District of Palawan. He has served as the Special Assistant to the House Speaker from 1991 to 1992 and pursued a career at the Sycip Gorres Velayo and Co.
(SGV & Co.) then after until 1996 before becoming a part of the Belle Resources Corporation. As a public servant, Mitra has acted as the chairperson of the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD), a national agency under the Office of the President from 2004 to 2007. Presently, he serves as the head of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food while practicing a profession in business and farming. —LZJ
/ 39
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s < 45 > house speaker
prospero nograles Representative, 1st District, Davao City
There is no typical day for the Speaker of the House. “No two days are the same,” he says. When you are the one responsible for keeping an eye on 268 of the most powerful men and women in the country, it does not come as surprise to hear such a statement. For the House Speaker, nothing is routine. Growing up in Davao City, the young Prospero Nograles lived simply but dreamed big—to be the city mayor. Having seen the atrocious crimes that transpired in their area during the days of martial law, Nograles strived hard to be the
40 \
best man he could be and achieve his dream—and he did. It wasn’t a conscious effort to get into the world of politics but more of the result of a maturing legal career. When Nograles vied for a seat in the Interim Batasan in 1984 and won, it was then that he realized that public service could be his calling. Now, years later and finally on the top echelon of the state while shouldering a lot of responsibilities, Nograles finally learns the true meaning of sacrifice. Juggling work with his private life isn’t easy but it is in the small moments with his
PHOTOS by TP
family that he finds his peace amid the hullabaloos of work. “I used to think that such a balance was achievable. That is until I became Speaker of the House. Now, I appreciate my family, especially my wife, more for the years they have quietly accepted the roles my career had thrust upon them. It is my family who keeps the balance in my life,” he says. When asked about his vision for the country, Nograles is hopeful that the Philippines will rise above. “The Philippines is a tropical paradise which we have so far
failed to develop anywhere near its potential,” he mentions. “I believe that given the right impetus and guidance, we could easily become an equal partner to out richer neighbors in global trade.” As for the government, Nograles has only one solution to the growing graft and corruption problem—transparency. To ensure accountability among officials is his goal. “I believe it is time we stopped talking about how ours is a government of the people and start practicing it,” he concludes. Truly, he learned from his heroes John F. and Robert Kennedy well. —JY
/ 41
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s 46 satur ocampo
47 philip pichay
Representative, Bayan Muna Party List
Representative, 1st District, Surigao del Sur
A writer journalist and now a legislator, Satur Ocampo represents Bayan Muna party list, which is known as a leftist political party in the country, along with Teodoro Casiño. Being a former economic journalist of the Manila Times and vice president of the National Press Club (NPC) from 1970 to 1972, Ocampo is more popularly known as a political activist who advocates human rights since the Martial Law era. He is the principal author of the law that aims to abolish death penalty in the country. Though being pressed by intermittent cases of rebellion as a supporter of leftist groups, Ocampo finds a strong public image and aspires to win a Senate seat in the upcoming 2010 polls. —LzJ
A businessman and certified public accountant, Representative Philip Pichay is the brother of former Team Unity senatorial candidate Prospero Pichay. He once served as an executive for the Sycip Gorres Velayo and Co. (SGV & Co) before entering public service. Though infamous for one of the solons who have expressed support for the Reproductive Health and Population Development Act (HB 5043), Pichay is noted for filing numerous bills on education that seek to improve high schools in various municipalities like Lanuza and Cantilan, Surigao del Sur. In addition, he has made the Suba Caves in his district an archaeological reservation site. —LzJ
< 48 > Representative
nikki prieto
-teodoro 1st District, Tarlac
A comely woman with a warm heart, Representative Monica PrietoTeodoro, popularly referred to as “Nikki,” is the wife of presidential aspirant and administration standard bearer Gilbert Teodoro. Formerly noted for her shampoo and bank endorsements, Nikki PrietoTeodoro is a graduate of the Webster University where she has earned a degree in International Marketing before pursuing a career as a real estate entrepreneur. PrietoTeodoro is currently the chairperson of the House Committee on the Welfare of Children in line with her efforts to help civic organizations that support abused and neglected children, specifically the Amor Complex and the Golden Rooster Foundation. Road infrastructure development and high school building construction also comprise her roster of legislative achievements though serving only her first term in office. —LzJ
42 \
I L L U S T R AT I O N b y T V
< 49 >
roman romulo Representative, Lone District, Pasig City “I saw it as a good calling,” Roman Romulo said when asked how he got into politics. A corporate lawyer prior to being the representative of Pasig’s lone district, Romulo was no stranger to politics. His father is former Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo and it was through his father that Romulo saw the opportunity. “My dad didn’t really want me to go into politics because of the lack of stability. But I really wanted to. I came in for the service,” Romulo said. “With law, you can only help so much—your clients, some groups; but with public service, it’s wide-ranging,” he adds. Apart from that, he mentions his personal selfish reason—to feel that sense of accomplishment. “There’s really satisfaction when the people you serve thanks you; it’s like getting an approval from your boss,” he states with a slight laugh. Young and still idealistic, Romulo hopes for a better Philippines, especially in the coming elections. His vision is clear: “What the Philippines need is a transparent government with a majority president. It is in this way that trust between the people and its government can be regained.” —JY PHOTO by TP
50 sharee ann tan Representative, 2nd District, Western Samar
Sharee Ann Tan-De Los Santos is currently serving her first term as the representative of the 2nd District of Western Samar. A licensed pharmacist, she is the vice-chairman of the Health Committee and is also a member of the Committees on Health, Agriculture and Food, Aquaculture and Fisheries Resources, Foreign Affairs, Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development, Tourism, and Women and Gender Equality. —Julien matabuena
/ 43
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s < 51 > representative
cynthia villar Lone District, Las Piñas City
PROMPTLY at 10 a.m., Congresswoman Cynthia Villar receives us warmly in her perfectly upholstered dining room overlooking serene, bucolic gardens replete with a quaint bridge and a pond filled with white lilies. After taking a miniscule sip of red wine, visibly unmindful of the scrumptious-looking dollop of vanilla ice cream in front of her— she gets up briskly to change for the photo shoot. Moments later, she appears garb in a crisp, exquisitely tailored outfit. With her elegant coiffure, subtle makeup, and sublime expensive-looking heeled peeptoes—she is every inch the soignée politician and wife of Senator and real estate mogul Manny Villar. Visibly punctilious and straightforward, she discusses her current advocacies and projects like a doting mother. She vocally espouses environmentalism in her district and in her own home where she practices an environment-friendly lifestyle that includes ditching plastic products and segregating various kinds of waste. Topping her list of environmental projects is the ongoing rehabilitation of the Las Pinas and Zapote Rivers which has saved the surrounding towns from
44 \
the recent horrendous floodwaters of Typhoon Ondoy. Indefatigable, she eschews bureaucratic shtick and perennial cul-de-sacs in favor of the resultoriented mantra of the corporate industry: Tangible output. She sums it up in her book by saying that “success does not lie in the head, it must be tested quickly in reality and adjusted according to circumstances.” In fact, since she assumed office in 2001, she has come up with a veritable concoction of arts and crafts livelihood projects that churned out a whole interesting spectrum of interest and laudatory quips from the residents of the political pond. Initially targeted at women especially housewives, the projects range from weaving baskets from water hyacinths, blankets, snazzy-colored Christmas lanterns, coconut coir and even salt-making. All these, Cynthia lovingly narrates in an inspiring book entitled, “My Journey in the Las Pinas Arts and Crafts Industry” published in 2008. As mother to three grown-ups who finished in top universities and Ivy-League schools—Paolo, Mark and Camille—Villar was definitely a hands-on mother who religiously attended
PHOTOS by TP
countless PTA (Parent-Teacher Association) meetings and hired consultants to help them decide which schools to enroll in. According to her, investing in the children’s university education is a monumental responsibility that parents should act on. Finally, when we asked her what makes her 34-year marriage to Sen. Villar work despite the general malaise and despondent statistics attributed to such societal norm, she responds by saying: “You should never say anything that you’d regret later to your spouse because the mind hardly forgets things.” She fondly dubs her husband as the “visionary” and herself as the “implementor.” Indeed, as the good-looking but recently-skewered senator navigates the perilous and murky waters of the 2010 presidential elections, Cynthia Villar’s tenacity and composure may just be more than his lucky charm. —JDLR
Above: Cynthia authored an inspiring book entitled, “My Journey in the Las Pinas Arts and Crafts Industry” published in 2008.
/ 45
/ ci no dn igvriedsus a l s
A U T H O R K A R E N A Z U P A R D O P H O T O G R A P H E R pae l o pedra j a s
< 52 > representative
way kurat zamora 1st District, Compostela Valley
46 \
The name says it all: “Way Kurat” (no fear). Throughout three terms in Congress, Rep. Manuel “Way Kurat” Zamora has not been averse to being the focus of attention. In 2001, his first term, the irrepressible Zamora came to Congress on a bicycle. Since then, he has become a household name. During the 2004 canvassing at the House, he carried ballot boxes to keep himself busy because the process can be quite “boring.” At the opening of the second regular session of the 13th Congress, he distributed calamnsi seedlings to “antiimpeachment” legislators, which he tended himself at the grounds of the Batasang Pambansa Complex. The 59-year-old legislator is chairman of the Committee on Overseas Affairs and vice chair of the Committees on Food Security, Labor and Employment, Mindanao Affairs. “My vision is for my people to have manners from A to Z. I want to be able to provide for them from the time they are born to their old age.” Zamora’s parents left their native Bulacan and migrated to Mindanao in 1952. His father became a sakada for the influential Sarmiento family of Davao. In the 1970s, Zamora became an organizer for the Kabataang Makabayan. A decade later, he would mobilize 30,000 small-scale miners in Mount Diwata. When martial law was declared, Zamora decided to go back to Davao del Norte to till their family’s land. Thus began a lifelong fascination with farming. Thanks to his tenacity and love of agriculture, Compostela Valley now has its own tissue
culture laboratory. The lab is part of the P13.5-million Way Kurat Agricultural and Technology Initiative or WATI. WATI seeks to develop capabilities in modern agriculture and vermin composting. Not surprisingly, wati is also a local term for “worm.” In terms of legislative work, Zamora took issue when the “holiday economics” bill was passed in 2007 (RA 9492). The measure moved holidays to the nearest weekend to enable employees and students to have longer vacations. It was Sen. Joker Arroyo’s version of the bill that was signed into law. In a privilege speech, Zamora called it a case of “bill piracy,” because he filed similar proposals from the 12th to the 14th Congresses which were never taken up. Zamora is also keen on the so-called “Lemon Law,” which seeks to protect consumers who purchase motor vehicles that do not conform to the standards or specifications. The Senate version has passed its version of the bill in 2007. Zamora is matter-of-fact about the realities of being in Congress. “When you say fulfillment as a congressman, there is no room here,” he admits. “When you mean fulfillment in terms of financial rewards, then be a congressman.” “Que sera, sera,” Zamora says of the 2010 elections. After 35 years in public service, he insists that he is not yet ready to retire. “What is important is to always look back. I always remember that. If it were possible, I’d have to walk backward.” —With a report from Carlo Velasco
PHOTO by TP
< 53 > representative
eduardo zialcita 1st District, Parañaque City
“You just can’t still idle and watch things happen,” shares Rep. Eduardo “Edza” C. Zialcita of Paranaque City’s 1st District. He has been practicing this philosophy ever since he was a student. In fact, he has been very active in student activism and also participated in the first EDSA revolution. Zialcita has an impressive political record. Some of his local projects include: the Libre Pustiso Program, scholarship programs such as EDZA School of Music, Kids ni EDZA and Dakilang Isip Program, which benefits a lot of
his constituents. He also authored a number of bills that greatly affect the general welfare of the Filipinos. He aimed to eradicate the graft and corruption in the government by creating Anti-Red Tape Act which is currently being implemented by the Civil Service Commission. His advocacy for the welfare of the senior citizens in the country resulted to the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2004. He wanted to strengthen the country’s housing system so he created the Magna Carta for Homeowners. Zialcita envisions Paranaque
to be a city where the basic needs of the people are satisfied. He believes that the government should go an extra mile for the people and provide them housing and hospitals, opportunities for livelihood, peace and order, and education and environmental projects. Aside from politics, Zialcita is also into singing. Being a good jazz singer that he is, he prefers singing than delivering long speeches. He believes that there are many things that you can express through music. His favorite song? “‘Impossible Dream’ by Frank Sinatra,” he shares. —ML
/prov i nc ial 54 gwen garcia Governor, Province of Cebu
Governor Gwendolyn “Gwen” Garcia is Cebu’s first female governor. Prior to holding the gubernatorial post in 2004 she served as Consultant on Financial Affairs, and then as Consultant on Systems Promotions and Development at the Cebu Provincial
Capitol. She also heads One Cebu (1-CEBU), a provincial political party formed before the 2007 elections. Governor Garcia is also the head of the Regional Development Council and the Regional Peace and Order Council. She is also the chairman of Visayas RDCom, the deputy secretary
general for Visayas of the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP), the chairman of the board of the Mactan Cebu Bridge Management Board (MCBMB), and member of the board of the Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA). —Jm
< 55 > representative
bongbong
marcos
2nd District, Ilocos Norte Nacionalista Party, Senatorial Candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. has been serving his constituents in Ilocos Norte for the last 17 years as the province’s vice-governor and then governor. Currently on his second term as the representative of the 2nd District of Ilocos Norte, he is the deputy minority leader of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Rules and a member of the Minority for the Committees on Tourism and on Transportation. Bongbong Marcos is well known for his windmill farm project in Bangui. The windmill farm was created primarily to provide an alternative source of electricity for the residents in the northernmost part of Ilocos. —Jm
I L L U S T R AT I O N b y T V
56 grace padaca
57 ed panlilio
Governor, Province of Isabela
Governor, Province of Pampanga
Undaunted by her opponent’s stronghold in the province of Isabela, Ma. Gracia Cielo “Grace” Padaca first ran for office in 2001 with the will to free Isabela from what she believed a corrupt regime. She was unsuccessful. But in 2004, she ran again for governor and this time she won, serving the people of Isabela for five years now. During her administration, she managed to gradually implement her plans, including programs such as subsidizing rice and corn farmers. These programs boosted Isabela’s agribusiness sector and provided her constituents with better infrastructures and improved medical coverage, among others. —Jm
On June 30, 2007, Eduardo “Among Ed” Panlilio was sworn into office as the governor of Pampanga, making him the province’s 26th chief executive and the second priest in Philippine history to be elected in public office. Despite numerous criticisms thrown his way, he carried out several programs during his term, which includes increasing Pampanga’s revenue from quarry taxes, bringing his constituents closer through the Pamiusapan (Helping One Another) in August 2007, and the White Ribbon Campaign. The White Ribbon Campaign was launched in October 2007 as an effort to get the Pampangueños involved in good governance and good citizenship. —Jm
/prov i nc ial 58 carlos petilla Province of Batangas
GOVERNOR CARLOS JERICHO Petilla first ran for the gubernatorial position in Leyte in 2004, winning over a more popular opponent, Sergio Apostol. During his first 100 days in office, the implementing Rules and Regulations of the Leyte Province Investment Code of 2004 were drafted.
< 59 > governor
vilma santosrecto Province of Batangas Governor Vilma SantosRecto, also known as the “Star for all Seasons” in Philippine tinseltown, has been serving the people of Batangas for 11 years now. In 1998, she became the province’s first female mayor, holding the office for nine years. Then in 2007, she ran for and won the gubernatorial position, with a margin of more than 130,000 votes against her opponent. While in office, Gov. Santos-Recto helped boost up the province’s economy, developed infrastructures and implemented programs on education, public health and the environment, earning her various recognitions from here and abroad, proving that she can not only win awards for being an outstanding actress but also for being a dedicated leader. —JM
I L L U S T R AT I O N b y T V
50 \
The Leyte Information Communication Technology (ICT) Park was created in the province, making Leyte one of the country’s ICT hubs. More recently, Gov. Petilla has pushed for Leyte to have its own power grid in order to have lower power rates. —JM
A U T H O R a d r i a n c a r l o v e l a s c o / A R T D I R E C T O R T E K S P A B U A Y ON & A . c a r l o v e l a s c o / P hoto g rapher j a k e v e r z o s a / S t y l ist M ARA RE Y ES / S hot o n l ocatio n at CA M S U R W A T ERS P OR T S CO M P LE X , CA M ARINES S U R
gov. LRAY VILLAFUERTE
in his element
You will not have a problem asking for the personal mobile number of L-Ray Villafuerte. In fact, the two-term Camarines Sur governor is all about new generation perspectives. No signs of grandeur. No socio-political wall. No bodyguards. No gigantic golden rings and bling-blings. Not even a beer belly.
“I want to change the image of a politician,” the no-nonsense governor brightly says. Back at the CamSur Capitol, Gov. Villafuerte even wears board shorts and slippers to office. It makes him more approachable for ordinary citizens like farmers and fisherfolks. But what makes the governor significant at this day and age is how he transformed the povertystricken Camarines Sur into the no. 1 tourist destination in the Philippines. It was his new-age confidence that enabled Gov. Villafuerte to spend hundreds and millions of pesos to develop the CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC), which placed the province on the tourism map. An information technology park was also developed within the Capitol Complex to house a 500-to-1,500-seat call center, an animation studio, and facilities for medical subscription.“ Lakas ng loob...I gambled for untried waters,” he adds. The exporter-turned-governor even remembers the time when critics would label his visions for the Bicolano province as “crazy,” when the ideas were just ahead of their time. The common stricture was “Is a wakepark really feasible? Why does CamSur need an IT center when there is an industry in Manila?” Less than a decade and millions of revenues after, no one dares to call him outrageous. “No matter what you do, there [will] always [be] people who will put you down. Fortunately, I only have a few,” he smiles.
54 \
/ 55
the storyteller Listening to Villafuerte is almost like learning about the evolution of CamSur. We realize the elements that contribute to its amazing story. Awakening “I was in business since I was 19 years old. There came a time in my life when the company was running really well and It was my dad’s last term [as governor]. He asked me if I wanted and I said ‘yes.’ First, it was out of boredom and then frustration when I saw other provinces like Cebu doing really well.” His drive “I’m passionate in anything I do. When I was in business [as CEO of Lara’s Gift and Decors], I wanted to be the top exporter. Sometimes it seems mayabang, but it’s my personal mantra [that] in anything I do, I try and be the best,” Transformation “When I won overwhelmingly on my first term, I used it to my advantage. I did many things that at first were unpopular, like the wakeboard park; I just stuck to my vision...So I gambled. I want to build a world-class province. Many thought it was weird. In order to be world-class, you don’t have to be as rich as America. You just have to start building world-class facilities, and start training people. [We] trained [people] in IT and in Japanese and Korean languages.”
Gov. Villafuer te wit h c hildren Luigi, Gabr iella and Julio.
Sports sells “I really want to promote tourism and sports tourism. [It is when you travel] to participate in a sport or to watch a sport. CamSur has become a sports tourism destination. We have also made an 18-hectare man-made lake for kayaking, dragon boat, rowing, and aqua park. [Now], we are planning to develop the longest downhill bike trail in the world and one of the best cave-diving sites in Asia. We are [also] developing [facilities for] sailing, kiteboarding, birdwatching, and surfing. We are fortunate. From 39th poorest, [we have become] the 10th richest. Give us a few more years and we might [become] the richest province.” Man of his word “If we did it in CamSur, everyone else can do it... We [now] have the biggest nutrition program in the country—malnutrition reduced by 45 percent. [CamSur also has] the most number of scholars in the country, over 300,000. Just have a vision, pursue that vision. Have a dream, pursue that dream. You just need a vision and a little bit of risk.”
/ 59
/l o cal 61 nene aguilar Mayor, Las Piñas City
Mayor VERGEL “Nene” Aguilar believes that working hard is what one must do in order to achieve success. During his youth, he juggled his time studying while working part-time. After college he set up his own building contractor and after some time he became the biggest house builder in the area. He entered politics after he was challenged by an opponent who constantly made unfavorable remarks towards him and his business interests. Today, the mayor personally does his rounds of the city hall, taking down notes when he sees something wrong and what could be done about them. He also closely monitors the projects in Las Piñas by conducting on-site visits. —Jm
< 62 > vice mayor
herbert bautista Quezon City
63 reinaldo bautista, jr. Mayor, Baguio City
Mayor Reinaldo Bautista, Jr. of Baguio City first became the city’s acting mayor after then Mayor Yaranon was suspended from his post. During the 2007 elections, he ran for and won the mayoral race. During his terms as acting mayor and then mayor, Bautista reviewed existing laws and made them stronger for his constituents. He put the taxpayers’ money to good use by concreting the grounds of day care centers, making the playgrounds safer for children. He also improved the schools in the city, built centers, footbridges in Pucsusan and San Antonio Village, barangay halls, and senior citizens’ centers. Despite having numerous projects though, Mayor Bautista refuses to stamp his name on them, saying that “all accomplishments are made in the spirit of public service.” —Jm
I L L U S T R AT I O N b y T V
Despite his age, Vice Mayor Herbert Bautista is not new to politics. He held several offices in Quezon City before finally becoming its vice mayor. In his years of service, he carried out programs such as the AntiDrug Campaign, the Sports Development Program, the
Handog Sa Barangay Program, Environment Protection Management, and the Preservation of Culture and Arts. Vice Mayor Bautista also believes that education plays a significant role in alleviating poverty, which is why he supports the deserving less fortunate students by giving
them scholarships. Another program he implemented is the Continuing Education for Teachers or “Hakbang sa Bagong Kaalaman Tungo sa de-Kalidad na Edukasyon ng Kabataan,” whose goal is to provide free trainings and grants in post-graduate course for public school teachers. —Jm
64 sonny belmonte
65 jejomar binay
Mayor, Quezon City
Mayor, Makati City Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino, Vice Presidential Candidate
Under the governance of former President Diosdado Macapagal, Feliciano “Sonny” Belmonte, Jr., mayor of the largest city in Metro Manila, took his first step in political career the moment he served as a Presidential Staff Assistant. During the Aquino administration, he was assigned to different government-owned corporations in the hope of elevating its state right after Martial Law. He served as legislator for three consecutive terms of the 4th District of Quezon City and became one of the primary co-author of the Salary Standardization Law. In the year 2001, he led the prosecution of former President Joseph Estrada. Together with Quezon City Vice Mayor Herbert Bautista in November 2009, he switched to Liberal Party after serving Lakas Kampi CMD for 17 years. —Jenn Aquino
To be world-class is what Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay offers his constituents. From the moment former President Corazon Aquino delegated him as an acting mayor of Makati, Binay showed his passion for human rights and thirst for competence. In the year 1986, through his efforts to put fiscal discipline by improving tax collection laws, Makati was able to gather a close to 30 million in savings making it as a bountiful start for the city. From health programs known as the “yellow card” that bagged international awards, to sheltering 40 percent of the multinational corporations, institutes and embassies; Makati has gone a long way allowing various recognitions to flow under his belt. In his 20 years of stay in the office, Binay was able to craft the Philippines’ financial capital. —JA
66 enrico echeverri
67 jv ejercito
Mayor, Caloocan City
Mayor, San Juan City
Winning the Most Outstanding City Councilor in 1992, Enrico “Recom” Echeverri was able to sharpen his service to the people of Caloocan. From there, he continues his visions as he held office as a congressman for two consecutive terms in 1998 and 2001 making him the sole official to be re-elected in the same position in the history of the said local. Now that he administers the city as its mayor, he generated work programs that focuses on education, safety, health, housing, infrastructure, effecient governance, among others. —JA
Living under the shadows of former President Joseph Estrada has never transpired with San Juan Mayor Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito. Nurturing the city that his father once served, the Outstanding Young Men awardee has shown unceasing improvements through his programs such as the JV Ejercito Scholarship Foundation, Medicare Para sa Masa (Philhealth Insurance) and the San Juan Health Card. His good financial management skills and business-savvy has p[ropelled San Juan to be the “Tiangge Capital.” of the Philippines. —JA
68 bobby eusebio
69 marides fernando
Mayor, Pasig City
Mayor, Marikina City
ROBERTO “Bobby” Eusebio is the incumbent mayor of the City of Pasig. An architecture graduate from the University of the Philippines, Eusebio is no stranger to the political scene. The fifth child of former Pasig Mayor Vicente Eusebio, he succeeded his father’s seat after winning the 2007 local elections against rival Robert “Dudut” Jaworski. During his term, Eusebio focused on making Pasig a great city to live in by improving education and healthcare in the city. One of his most notable projects was the Pasig Green City campaign that aims not only to beautify the city, but also to create a healthy environment for the people. —Jy
Love could not only spark a beautiful relationship between a man and woman; it also leads to a further harmonious community. This was proven by Marikina Mayor Marides Fernando, 2004 awardee of Outstanding Woman in Good Governance and wife to former MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando, as she continuously nourishes her husband’s formerly governed city. The city is known for the cleanliness and the public’s good health that leads various institutions like MetroBank, the Department of Health and even the World Health Organization to take notice. After the accumulated damage by Typhoon Ondoy, Marikina now stands strong as 85 percent of the businesses resume their operation. Now on its ninth year as elected mayor, Marides Fernando attributed the fast recovery to the city investor’s long-gained trust and shared harmony. —JA
/ 61
/l o cal 70 alfredo lim
71 aiko melendez
Mayor, City of Manila
Councilor, Quezon City
A comeback has been made by Alfredo Lim after being hailed Mayor of Manila in 2007. The “Dirty Harry” of the Philippines has been known for his rigorous clean-up of the metro’s prostitutions and illegal drug activities. Using his spray paint campaign to expose suspected drug pushers in his previous terms, he gained multifold of criticisms from certain activists which caused its abortion. Nevertheless, the campaign proves to be effective. For 17 years as a public servant, the former chief of the Philippine National Police and senator proves that with a strong will, one can be able to fight and eradicate crimes. —JA
The spotlight is on and Aiko Melendez will not step out of it, not yet in the political arena. For nine years, the former teen idol and one of the most successful Regal Entertainment talents, Aiko Shinoji has strongly handed out her services to the people of the 2nd District of Quezon City. Natural family planning, youth training and literacy, medical and dental services and mass feeding were some of her programs for her constituents. With former Secretary Mike Defensor as her running mate, she will vie for the Vice Mayoral position in Quezon City in May 2010. —JA
72 isko moreno
73 tomas osmeña
Vice Mayor, City of Manila
Mayor, Cebu City
A slumdog Francisco Domogoso, mostly known from his That’s Entertainment stint was able to dish out a success story for us to live by. Using his dedication and honesty, he was able to charm the 1st District of Manila as he became a three-time councilor. Despite the lack of money in the 2007 elections, he was able to take on the Vice Mayoral position mostly owing it to his sincerity to serve. Deprived of much needed education in his former years in service, he decided to take Local Legislation and Local Finance crash course at the University of the Philippines. He then took Public Administration at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and is now taking up Law at Arellano University. —JA
From a family of leaders and public servants, Tomas R. Osmeña bags awards and recognitions one after another living it up to his name. Prior to his political career here in the Philippines, he had been leading numerous institutions such as financial corporations in the United States and Club Filipino as vice president in Los Angeles, California. After two years of receiving the award for the The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM), he was hailed mayor of Cebu City. His commitment to the Cebuanos was visibly represented. Spearheading one of the major advancement of the city, the South Reclamation project, Osmeña envisions the 300-hectare land to be an accommodating and successful commercial district. In October 2002, he was awarded Most Outstanding Mayor for Local Government surpassing 155 mayors. —JA
74 jesse robregado
75 eva marie singson-medina
Mayor, Naga City
Mayor, Vigan City
Listening to political news here in the country is the same as stuffing our ears with off-putting acts and lifestyles, but after hearing the story of Naga Mayor Jesse Robregado, perhaps, it is not too late to change our frame of mind. Having a modest life with his family, Robregado set the standards for our public servants to follow. At the age of 29, he was hailed as the youngest city mayor in Philippine history and in his years in service, he transformed Naga to a First-Class City from a former backward municipality. He received major awards including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service in 2000, Outstanding Young Persons of the World Award (TOYP) in 1996 and Dangal ng Bayan Award. He created a system using IT advancements that allows them to be transparent in the local government expenses. His brilliant programs received recognitions from World Bank and United Nations. —JA
Eva Marie Singson-Medina was elected as the first female chief executive of Vigan in 1995. She held the post for three terms until 2004, after which her husband Ferdinand became mayor. In 2007, she ran for re-election unopposed. Singson-Medina is the daughter of Evaristo “Titong” Singson and a niece of Luis “Chavit’ Singson. Her administration used the conservation of heritage as major tool for development. From a second-class municipality in 1995, Vigan has made it to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999. It has also been named the cleanest and greenest city in Northern Luzon, the most child-friendly component city in the Philippines, and the best performing local government with the least number of constituents living below the poverty threshold in the Ilocos Region. According to Singson-Medina, Vigan has “opened itself to change but has not sacrificed the bountiful wealth of its heritage.” —JA
62 \
76 shalani soledad Councilor, Valenzuela City
PHOTO by TP
Shalani Soledad has managed to keep a low profile despite the public’s unrelenting fascination about her romantic relationship with Liberal Party (LP) standard-bearer Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. Soledad was elected councilor of the 2nd District of Valenzuela City in 2004 at the age of 23. She won a second term in 2007, and is seeking re-election in May 2010
under the LP. Soledad chairs the Committee on Accreditation, Ways and Means. Soledad began her career in the field of politics as executive staff at the offices of Governor Leandro Verceles, Jr. and Sen. Panfilo Lacson, in 2001 and 2002, respectively. She is a native of Catanduanes and earned her Human Resources Management degree from De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. —JA
< 77 > mayor
toby
tiangco Navotas City
Growing up in a conservative family, Toby Tiangco never envisioned himself to be in politics. In college, he was trained and groomed to be a businessman. In fact, right after college, he was already involved in business. In 1998, Tiangco decided to run for the vice mayor seat of Navotas. His parents were against it but he was very determined to run. He believes that he cannot turn down the chance being given to him as a part of the solution to Navotas’ problem. He won and assumed the mayoral position in 2000. His first elected term was in 2001, followed by two more terms in 2004 and 2007 respectively. He considers the flood minimization as his greatest achievement in Navotas. “Even during Typhoon Ondoy ,we had zero evacuees,” he shares. A reclamation project is also a part of Tiangco’s long-term goal for Navotas. “Navotas is the third smallest city in Metro Manila in terms of land area,” he shares. He believes that additional land area will entice more businesses, thus creating more jobs for the people that will make them less rely on the government. This will also result to more taxes which will enable the city to have more funds for social services. —ML
/ 63
mayor freddie tinga
the builder It was a surprise; an oddly refreshing surprise to hear such words uttered by the politico who supposedly transformed the once-sleepy Taguig. “It’s service,” Tinga says when asked what his motivation is despite the dislike. He craves constantly for the chance to serve, his main reason for still doing what he’s doing. He’s just seen enough of the ugly side of politics, hence the sour feelings. Laying the foundation Obviously, Tinga never saw himself running a city. Prior to being in office, the former entrepreneur was on top of the world—he had a Hong Kong-based IT business worth millions of dollars and he had a wonderful family by his side. He didn’t really need it. It was in 2001 though, that Tinga surprised everyone, even himself. Three months before the elections, by an odd twist of fate, Freddie Tinga decided to run for office and won the position he now holds. “It was the craziest thing I’ve done,” Tinga Recalls. “One moment, I was the CEO of this company and the next, I was running for office, campaigning day in and day out.” Imperfect fit From quite an unknown township, Taguig became a booming business and commercial district in the three terms of Tinga’s reign. Its rapid change is interesting to watch and the man behind it, interesting to know. Tinga is an atypical politician. He is candid and approachable, bold and ambitious; he is cool and brimming with youthful valor. It’s fascinating to know how such a man could deliver the job, and deliver it well. “I think it’s because it’s really not a good fit,” Tinga answers. “It’s being uncomfortable with the position, the power and the perks that make someone a good public servant,” he adds. “Though I’m not saying I haven’t made mistakes, I had. We have. I think that’s how we learn.”
Stripes longsleeves button down polo Php3,995 United Colors of Benetton; Black casual three-button suit jacket, Php12,950 GAS jeans; Morris slim straight jeans, Php5,495.
A U T H O R j a n y l a g a n / A R T D I R E C T O R T E K S P A B U AY O N / P hoto g rapher j a ke v e r z os a / S t y l ist c h a r m a i n e p a l e r m o / S hot o n l ocatio n at b o n i f acio hi g h street , the f ort , t a g u i g
“I hate politics,” Freddie Tiñga says frankly and without hesitation on the first minute of the conversation.
Taguig First Lady Kaye Tinga plays a vital role in the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development.
66 \
Brown and white stripes cotton shirt with navy piping design, Php2,950; Black knit jacket, Php5,950 both from GAS jeans.
/ 67
City of dreams “The goal is to make Taguig the premier city of the Philippines by 2020,” Tinga shares. Once a laughable proposition, this seems to be coming into fruition—and fast. Investors are eyeing it, businesses are flocking it, and people are coming to it in hoards. “I think our goal of making Taguig the premiere city is going to happen before 2020,” Tinga, like the visionary that he is, confidently says. He sees this happening through the participation of the whole city, asking the people to help make the change. With all the hooplas of being in office, Tinga turns to his family to keep him grounded and balanced. “For me, I can’t complain how frustrating this job is because I look at all the blessings I have and feel lucky. I’m given the chance to serve and then to top that off, I have my wife Kaye and such wonderful kids (Kylie, Kerry, Kody and Kristian),” Tinga shares. As for his own future, Tinga is set on running for Congress. “For me, the ideal thing is to not be in politics, but still help. I think that’s where I’m headed. I’m really looking forward to my exit here.” His exit has yet to come. In the meantime, Mayor Freddie Tinga will continue to dip his hands on the cement and helm his beloved Taguig into a city not only of dazzling skyscrapers but a city built on the dreams of his people.
Black slim straight denim pants, Php5,945; Navy with pinstripes black button-down shirt, Php3,495, Black casual three-button suit jacket, Php12,950 all from GAS jeans.
S p e c i a l t h a n k s t o M s . B e l i n d a Ta n a n d M r. N o e l Ta y a c a n of Bo Concept (Ground Level, Mos Design, Bonifacio High Street) and The Stock Market (Bldg. 3, Bonifacio High Street)
/pr i vate sec tor < 79 >
PHOTO by pP
jingo bagadion Lakas Kampi CMD, Provincial Board Member Candidate 2nd District, Camarines Sur “I have really thought hard before I decided to enter politics,” shares Jingo Bagadion, a provincial board member aspirant in Camarines Sur. The firsttime politician offers a new breed of politics, pushing for projects that will benefit his constituents’ future. Bagadion grew up being exposed in his father’s active participation in outreach community projects. “We are already helping the people in our own way, but I want to do my own part in helping the people,” he shares. If given a chance to be elected, he will be prioritizing safety and security through insurance and retirement benefits; health by improving the quality of doctors; and education through a standardized educational system. “I’m not saying that I’m the best but I can inspire people who are well-educated and have visions to join politics.” —ML
80 dr. vicki belo Dermatologist / Entrepreneur For Dr. Vicki Belo, transforming the Philippines into the “beauty capital of Asia” is her life’s work. As medical director of the Belo Medical Group, she has pioneered procedures such as tumescent and laser-assisted liposuction in the country. The success of her new skin care line is another milestone for Belo. While her beauty empire continues to expand, Belo also became mired in unsavory legal battles, the most controversial of which stemmed from the sex videos Hayden Kho took of her and other female partners. Adel Tamano, former opposition spokesperson and Nacionalista senatorial bet, was Belo’s legal counsel when the issue broke. Tamano was eventually tapped as endorser for Belo’s “Smart is the new sexy” campaign. According to Belo, she believes that Tamano can make a difference and is strongly supporting his candidacy. —KA
81 ben chan Entrepreneur Chinese-Filipino entrepreneur Ben Chan is one of the successful individuals that have truly created a global lifestyle brand. The Bench brand has redefined the fashion and retail industry with its deep knowledge of the market and commitment to innovation. This sense of purpose is also reflected in Chan’s support for various causes, including the fight against breast cancer and environmental conservation. Chan’s opinion, even in his choice of candidates, is also known to be influential among the public. —KA
70 \
82 mike defensor Mayoral Candidate, Quezon City Mike Defensor is closely allied with President Gloria MacapagalArroyo. He joined her cabinet in various capacities, including Presidential Chief of Staff, Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, acting chairman of the Philippine National Railways and head of the task force on the preparation and opening of the NAIA Terminal 3. He ran for senator in 2007 under the administration ticket but was unsuccessful. Defensor is known one of the “Spice Boys,” a group of young legislators who initiated the filing of the impeachment case against former President Joseph Estrada. Defensor is eyeing the post of Quezon City Mayor at the 2010 polls under the People’s Reform Party, with Councilor Aiko Melendez as his running mate. —KA
PHOTO by TP
< 83 >
gina de venecia Chairperson, Congressional Spouses “A woman can walk side by side by a man; not under, not above”—this has been the image that Georgina “Manay Gina” de Venecia has long portrayed to the public. For years, everyone has come to know her as the supportive politican’s wife who gave up her work as a media personality to live a life in politics. Gina is now reeled into running for Congress, vying for a slot as the congresswoman of the 4th District of Pangasinan. “I never thought of reaching this point,” de Venecia says. To be in politics was never the plan. It was her husband who urged her to continue his work in the district. De Venecia is no stranger to public service and reaching out to the less fortunate; it has been ingrained in her since her childhood. Growing up in a well-off family, she mentions that the best lesson her parents taught them was “to walk with kings and eat with paupers.” The fruits of this lesson has since manifested in her social work from her time as the chairperson of the Congressional Spouses up to now. From 1995, she has managed
to create a multitude of social relief centers for women (Haven for Women), young children (Haven for Children), the elderly (Haven for the Elderly) and, together with TV personality Ali Sotto, a center for grieving mothers who lost their children (INA Foundation). Social work, helping the less fortunate and abused has kept her busy. “It is in sharing and giving that you experience total happiness,” she says. Despite her now busier schedule, De Venecia still ensures quality time with her family to keep the balance in her life. May it be taking care of her husband or playing with her grandchildren, the congressional aspirant makes sure that everyone around her feels loved. When asked about her vision for the country, De Venecia says she yearns for a Philippines much like Singapore—a marriage of socialism and democracy. “I want to see a Philippines with good leaders who are thinking about the 93 million Filipinos and not themselves. I want to be part of that change. I want to see that change in my lifetime.” —JY
84 hermogenes ebdane Former PNP Chief and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Ebdane assumed leadership of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in 2005, becoming its 37th secretary. Ebdane is regarded as one of the close aides of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. After serving two years as DPWH secretary, he was re-appointed in 2007. A four-star general whose career spanned law enforcement, intelligence operations and public safety administration, Ebdane also served as chief of the Philippine National Police, National
Security Adviser and director general of the National Security Council. In October 2009, he resigned the DPWH post to run for president, a decision that caught members of the Arroyo administration by surprise. Ebdane’s supporters are from the ranks of the Lapiang Manggagawa (Philippine Labor and Peasant Party). Ebdane was later forced to abandon his plans, citing the lack of funds to mount a sustained nationwide campaign. —KA
/ 71
/pr i vate sec tor < 85 >
bayani fernando Bagumbayan, Vice Presidential Candidate “A man may be a king in his domain but once he sets foot on the sidewalk, he has to bear in mind that he is bound by the rules of society and has to live by them.” This principle, according to former MMDA Chairman Bayani “BF” Fernando, is exactly what the country needs to take to heart in order to move forward. After all, laws are solutions. We just don’t look at them that way. “It seems that we have never recognized laws as solutions. This is why we do not follow laws and are unable to enforce them,” Fernando explains. “This has brought about disorder and poverty in our country.” With Bayani as former three-term local executive, Marikina City has elevated itself from a fourth-class municipality into a highly progressive and, in many ways, innovative Philippine city. “By recognizing that laws are not useless impositions, the public will help give officials the confidence to evenly implement laws,” says Fernando. A mechanical engineer by profession, Fernando spent 28
years managing the BF Group of Companies, a firm engaged in construction, steel, manufacturing and real estate, before embarking on a career as a public official. True to form, Fernando turned to the sidewalks and initiated what he called “Pulitika sa Bangketa” (literally, “Politics in the Sidewalk”) to foster change in Marikina. “People would eventually define my style of governance as something which has political will,” says Fernando. For the 2010 national elections, Fernando has teamed up with Senator Richard Gordon under BagumbayanVolunteers for a New Philippines (Bagumbayan-VNP). The Gordon-Fernando team seeks to empower the country with their brand of “transformational leadership.” Calling themselves the “transformers,” the two leaders are confident that their experience and political will can redefine the country’s future. “Sa political will, titino po tayo (With political will, we can achieve order),” says Fernando. —KA PHOTO by TP
86 felipe gozon
87 eugenio lopez iii
Chairman and CEO, GMA Network
Chairman and CEO, ABS-CBN Network
Atty. Felipe Gozon is the incumbent chairman, president and CEO of undoubtedly one of the most influential media giants, GMA Network, Inc. He has been the chairman of the board of directors since 1975 and has assumed leadership of the company in October 2000. In 2009, GMA-7 joined what is tagged as “the biggest, widest and most comprehensive coverage of the 2010 elections,” Eleksyon 2010. It aims to help prevent election frauds, provide voter education and encourage all Filipinos to vote wisely and to ensure the quick dissemination of election results. —JM
EUGENIO “Gabby” Lopez III is the chairman and CEO of ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation since 1996 after his father, the late Geny Lopez, Jr., turned over the company to him. With the number of the companies under the Lopezes’ control, it isn’t any wonder now that they are involved in politics one way or another. Although some members of the Lopez clan is known to be active in Philippine politics by holding offices in the government, Gabby Lopez chooses to remain on the sidelines, supporting politicians and their respective policies and helping with other agencies’ worthy causes and advocacies. —JM
88 eduardo manzano
89 lani mercado
Lakas Kampi CMD, Vice Presidential Candidate
Congressional Candidate, Lone District of Bacoor, Cavite
THIS TV ACTOR first entered politics in 1998 when he ran for and won the vice mayor position of Makati. During his term, he became the national president of the Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines and was awarded the Outstanding and Unblemished Vice Mayor Award by the National Press Club and the Outstanding Vice Mayor Award by the Consumers Union of the Philippines. In 2004, he was appointed chairman of the Optical Media Board (OMB) and served until late last year. Currently, Edu Manzano is active on his campaign against child abuse and pornography, even forming the Anti-Child Abuse and Pornography (ACAP) Foundation in 2008.—JM
Jesusa Victoria Bautista or famously known as Lani Mercado is a host and movie/television actress. She is the wife of Senator Bong Revilla. In 2009, she has been elected to the San Miguel Corporation (SMC) board of directors. She took the offer because she believes that she can provide a consumer’s point of view in the board. In the 2010 elections, Mercado is running for the congressional seat of Bacoor, Cavite. If given a chance, she will be prioritizing education, environment, nutrition and employment. She will resign as a SMC board member by March 2010, but still has no plans of quitting showbiz. —ML
< 90 >
mon-mon mitra Nacionalista Party, Senatorial Candidate Coming from a kin of politicians, it is no surprise for Nacionalista Party candidate Ramon “Mon-Mon” Mitra III to finally hop in the political arena. A man who was used to enter through side entrance or back exit as he campaigned for his family is now ready to grace the political prominence. Mitra being exposed to rallies and NPA encounters at a very young age and his father, the late prominent politician Ramon Mitra, being held as a political prisoner under Martial law, in fact, didn’t trigger him to get into military. Getting into military was a shock at first. Philippine Military Academy was a hard climb for the young Mitra for he was short of expectations, but soon after he learned the ropes, he just did what has to be done. In his
18 years of public service in the PMA, discipline was inculcated in him. During his biggest fight in the 1989 coup, Mitra was granted with the Distinguished Conduct Star, the second highest military award. Mitra served the military for 18 years. At a very young age, his father instilled in him to strive for public service and give back to motherland. These two things are what keep him fueled. No matter how hard he tried to keep away from politics, he says, it is an opportunity he cannot resist and an extension to public service. His visions for the country include food security, disarmament of all armed groups in the Philippines for peace and order, utilization of alternative fuels and renewable energy, and environment preservation.—UV
PHOTO by pP
/ 73
/pr i vate sec tor < 91 >
< 93 >
Nacionalista Party, Congressional Candidate Alabel, Sarangani
Former Press Secretary
manny pacquiao dong puno Manny Pacquiao started his boxing career in 1995 but only gained worldwide fame when he defeated Mexican boxing legend Marco Antonio Barrera in 2003. Due to his achievements, he is included in esteemed lists such as Time Magazine’s World’s Most Influential People of 2009 and Forbes Magazine’s Celebrity 100 List of 2009. It was in 2007 that he showed interest in politics, with his wish to help the less fortunate. He therefore ran for Congress but lost. In May 2010, seemingly unfazed by the number of criticisms he is getting from his actions, he is determined to run again for Congress but this time, to represent another district. —JM
I L L U S T R AT I O N b y T V
92 manny pangilinan Chairman, PLDT and Smart Communications
74 \
Manny Pangilinan is the CEO of PLDT and Smart Communications Inc., managing director and CEO of First Pacific and the new owner and chairman of TV5. Last year’s “Ako Mismo,” a campaign supported by a number of entities including the SmartPLDT Foundation where he is
PHOTO by TP
the chairman, sparked speculations that he may be running for office in the 2010 elections. That and his impressive credentials made people think and consider that he might be fit for a position in the government. However, he says that he is already at ease with just running his business. PLDT is also one of the leaders of the Eleksyon 2010 coverage. .—JM
“[For change to happen], we should start with small things and little by little, we’ll get there,”—these are a few simple words coming from the opinionated and multifaceted Atty. Ricardo “Dong” Puno, Jr. Simple words, yet delivers profound truth. For the longest time, Puno has been known to the millions
of Filipinos as one of the most prolific media personalities of our time. Above that, he is a Harvardeducated lawyer who has even served the government as Press Secretary, Presidential Spokesperson and Cabinet Secretary. Truly, Puno has had his fair share of politics. Today, Puno keeps himself out of the system, busy being an agent of change as the president of Guagua National Colleges. It is in his belief that the seeds of change must be planted early on to the youth. Education, for him, is the catalyst to this transformation we’ve long been waiting for. “You have to get people motivated enough to want to have a better life, to rise above themselves,” Puno shares. It is with this ideal that he helps the youth of Guagua by boosting athletics, performing arts and the student’s natural abilities then coupling it with academics. Moreover, he develops facilities like
auditoriums and chapels for the school and enhances the capabilities of its faculty members. Indeed, educating the youth of Guagua is his primary passion but little does everyone know, Puno also dedicates his time as the senior vice chairman of the Wine & Food Society, an international organization whose passion lies in the wedding of good food and premium wines from the world over. Other than that, there’s not much to know about Puno that we have not heard before. “My life has been very public, I’ve been very out there much too often. I can’t hide too much and I don’t think I should,” Puno mentions. “Why should I?” “I hope to change government one of these days,” Puno shares. It is in this vast space that he will make the change himself. Starting from Guagua, the students, and further beyond…Puno remains nothing but optimistic. —JY
< 95 >
Growing up in a bucolic lifestyle, Dinky Soliman enjoyed the simple things in life. Her parents who were involved in church-related programs such as helping the poor, teaching catechisms, doing medical missions encouraged her to be involved with these practices. After college, Soliman built and organized a social group which provided opportunities for the poor. She spearheaded capacity-building projects using the “wisdom of the crowd,” which is born out various processes until the people realize their power to change. In 2001, Soliman was appointed as the Secretary of Department of Social Welfare and Development. “I believe that doing public service without having a
dinky
soliman Former Secretary, DSWD
94 gilbert remulla Nacionalista Party, Senatorial Candidate He is the youngest child of Governor Juanito R. Remulla and Ditas C. Remulla. A graduate of Broadcast Communication from the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Gilbert started his career as a production assistant of ABS-CBN’S news team and eventually worked his way up to become a staple face during the morning and evening news of the network. Not contented with his achievement, he took the opportunity for further studies at the Columbia University in New York City with MA in International Affairs and paved the way for him to work with CNN and the United Nations. Having been born as a Remulla, it is but expected for him to join the world of politics. He was known for being one of the youngest members of Congress, and defied negative comments about his inexperience for the position compared to the other members of the Congress. One of the former congressman’s notable contributions is RA 9165, also known as the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. —KC
position in the government. But then I decided to give it a chance and to take on the challenge.” As DSWD Secretary, she was able to engage in communitydriven development programs that were able to get support from the World Bank. She was also able to build a Performance Management System so the people would know exactly what was being accomplished. She also instilled a sense of service or what she calls “magiliw na paglilingkod sa sambayanan” to all the employees of the said department. Soliman believes that there is still hope for the country. “I have great faith that we will have better time because citizens will act and work for ethical leadership.” —ML
PHOTO by pP
/ 75
/pr i vate sec tor
a u t h o r k a r e n a z u p a r d o P H O T O G R A P H E R T EK S PA B UA Y ON
< 96 >
adel tamano Nacionalista Party, Senatorial Candidate
Best known as the former spokesperson of the United Opposition and legal counsel of Dr. Vicki Belo, Adel Tamano is in fact the youngest university president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) and the first Filipino Muslim to head a major university in Manila. Tamano also served as national president of the Association of Local Colleges and Universities. Tamano describes PLM, a public institution of higher learning for deserving students, as “the little university that could.” Adel means “lover of justice” in Arabic. Tamano’s academic credentials reflect the meaning of his name: A Master of Laws degree from Harvard Law School, a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of the Philippines, and
Bachelor’s and Law degrees from the Ateneo de Manila University. He has spent more than a decade teaching law and economics. He became an associate at the Mendoza Law Office after graduating from law school until 2004 and is now senior partner at Kapunan Tamano Villadolid & Associates. Tamano considers Jose Rizal a personal hero, and keeps a Rizal bust in his PLM office. “I read El Filibusterismo and Noli Me Tangere and realized that things have not changed. It’s like a sickness. And the solutions are still the same,” says Tamano. “It’s our generation who’s tasked to fix it.” Tamano is father to sevenyear-old Santi and four-year-old Mike. He is married to Rowena, who is also a lawyer and a Catholic. “I didn’t ask her to convert to Islam,” he explains, adding that
such a practice is unorthodox. The couple’s children are being brought up as Muslims. “We [thought] that if we worked hard, be decent lawabiding citizens, we would have essentially a good life untouched by poverty. That’s what Typhoon Ondoy destroyed,” he says, recalling the destruction wrought by the country’s worst natural disaster in decades. “If we have good governance, we cannot divorce ourselves from the reality of others. We touch them, and they touch us.” Although his father Mamintal was a respected senator, Tamano admits that he was quite reluctant to run for public office. “I am not into politics. I never considered running for public office.” He declined offers to run for senator in the 2007 elections and instead devoted his time to honing his
skills. This time, Tamano views the opportunity to run under the Nacionalista Party in 2010 as a way to honor his father and to continue his legacy. Tamano’s legislative agenda includes free college education for underprivileged students, who will be asked to render public service for at least two years, as well as the creation of a Mindanao Leaders Academy to train and develop more Muslim leaders. In his Harvard commencement speech, he told fellow graduates, “You will be judged not by today. You will be judged by this institution on how you have made your community better.” Tamano is optimistic that he can accomplish just that. “I have the skills and I am excited to be part of the team that’s gonna turn this country around.” — With a report from Carlo Velasco
Mazinger Z, a popular Japanese anime character a n d o n e o f Ta m a n o ’s favorites, adorns his law office table.
/ 77
/i n s ight
78 \
a u thor j u n e d e l a r o s a I L L U S T R A T or R Y AN V I LLA M AEL
2010 elections:
a perfect storm As 2009 screeches its last world-weary, ominous sigh, a propitiously marked or, should I say, tarred by the tumultuous May 2010 presidential elections year is brewing a new storm of dizzying, mind-blasting proportions. Of course, the much-heralded “complete poll automations” and whether it is “to be or not to be” has whipped everyone into a hot, flaming casserole as pundits, alarmists, rabble-rousers and supposed purveyors of the country’s moral fabric spew a stream of invectives and pronouncements against the government, the COMELEC, or against each other. To be or not to be: That is the question that has plagued the media as each new pundit-alarmist declares the grim possibility of a failed automated election from factors like voter error, lack of electricity, machine failure or paid hackers. The Supreme Court answers by nodding its head sagely and saying it’s a pretty remote possibility. It is about time that the nation gets out of the dark ages and does it anyway. The bottomline is we all agree to the pros of an automated election—that being less cheating or fraud, and faster results. Notwithstanding the controversial automation, the cooks minding the broth are of course the “interesting” motley crew of “hopefuls” churned out by the already-stale, heavily-mildewed, falling-apart political woodwork. Leading the presidential pack according to the polls/surveys are Sen. Noynoy Aquino, Sen. Manny Villar, former President Erap Estrada and former Defense Sec. Gibo Teodoro while the farrago of VPsto-be are Sen. Mar Roxas, Sen. Loren Legarda, Mayor Jojo Binay, former Optical Media Board Chairman Edu Manzano and former MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando. Each one is perversely persistent and adept at speechifying and plastering the most appalling Cheshire grin on an impeccably-botoxed countenance. And so as 2010 creeps into the scene, the cutthroat competition begins as these “bright” hopefuls who are tasked with the gargantuan role of navigating our country amidst “snags” and “whirlpools” in the next six years display the traditional ass-kissing, conniving, dirt-throwing to primp themselves and up their poll standing or scores. Needless to say, as 2010 rolls in with its deafening noise and humongous amount of garbage flying in all directions—this author will be wearing my old clothes and sucking on peppermint lozenges to minimize the sickening bilious sensation tugging at my delicate bowels. So should you. / 79
/pr i vate sec tor < 97 >
gilbert teodoro Lakas Kampi CMD, Presidential Candidate Up-and-coming, quintessentially American IvyLeague-educated, noted blatant protégé to San Miguel business tycoon Danding Cojuangco sets his sights on becoming the next president of the Philippines in 2010. In fact, he had unequivocally pronounced (with the support of his stunning wife) that he will only run for the top spot and nothing more. As the most visible persona during the horrendous ravages of typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng, the former National Defense secretary upped his ranking in the recent polls significantly with his signature take-charge and no-nonsense attitude. Unlike his more popular second cousin Noynoy Aquino, Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro is far more articulate and visibly pragmatic amid the furious
polemic of perennial issues ailing the country today. His aggressive stance on “terrorism” has earned him both ire and admiration from the perennially divisive Muslim community. More recently, his quick and tangible vehement response to the Ampatuans: instructing the political party (Lakas Kampi CMD) to ditch the Ampatuans days after the ghastly massacre flooded the media has certainly favored his poll numbers more so since such a move has yet to be done by the other presidential wannabes. Nowadays, his numerous visits in universities peppering the countryside and the metro has obviously endeared him to young voters who are looking for someone who might just come up with the much-harped about change in the political system.—JDLR I L L U S T R AT I O N b y T V
98 alfred vargas
99 eddie villanueva
Running for Councilor, 2nd District, Quezon City
Philippines for Jesus Movement, Presidential Candidate
Alfredo Paolo Vargas III, known to many as Alfred Vargas, began his career in showbusiness in 2001 under ABS-CBN’s Star Magic. He played roles in Philippine television shows before moving to GMA Network and propelling his career forward by doing movies. The 28-year-old actor is a graduate of the Ateneo de Manila University with a degree in AB Management Economics. In 2009, he expressed his desire to run for office after seeing the many untapped resources and the overall potential of the country to prosper. He is now vying for the position of councilor of the 2nd District of Quezon City under Lakas Kampi CMD. —jy
During his youth, Bro. Eddie Villanueva was heavily involved with the student and labor movement of the ‘70s. He was among those who opposed military dictatorship and was even jailed for these beliefs and participation in the movements. In 1978, however, he founded the Jesus is Lord (JIL) Church. Today, he is the spiritual director and president of JIL, chairman of the Philippines for Jesus Movement (PJM), president and chairman of ZOE Broadcasting Network and head of the Bagong Pilipinas, Bagong Pilipino movement. —jm
100 jaime
agusto zobel de ayala II
Chairman and CEO, Ayala Corporation
Jose Augusto Zobel de Ayala II (JAZA) is an entrepreneur and philanthropist. He serves as the chairman and CEO of Ayala Corporation, one of the biggest conglomerates in Southeast Asia. His achievements in business have garnered him numerous prestigious honors,
noteworthy of mention are the Harvard Business School’s Alumni Achievement Award in September 2007 and the Presidential Medal of Merit given to him by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on March 2009. He is the first Filipino to receive this highest honor given by Harvard Business School. The
People Power Revolution of 1986 and 2001 saw the Ayalas join the public in voicing out their concerns against the country’s former leaders. However, JAZA does not seem to be interested in fully immersing himself in the world of politics, only preferring to push for national reform from behind the scenes. —jM
add endum/ F&B/
style/ c u lt u r e / in the loop/ r&r/ 100 man/ 100â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s picks
\
a
\ A
d
d
e
TA S T E
n
d
O F
u
m
/
F
&
B
B A R C E L O N A
Vibrant and SUNNY Barcelona—we’ve seen it in photographs, in Woody Allen’s film, on television—but only a select few have truly experienced it. One of the world’s emerging art and architecture capitals, Barcelona, just like the rest of Spain, has one more thing to truly boast about—its food and wine. Thankfully, Catalonia-bred Sergi Rostoll and his partners came up with Barcino, a quaint wine shop bound to impress the wine connoisseurs, wine lovers and those simply wanting to experience the Catalan way of life. Rostoll, whose family is in the wine business and who was raised in a Catalan wine town saw the opportunity in Manila during his travel to the country. Seeing the lack of wine bars in the metro, save for those inside hotels, Rostoll decided to set up shop and import local Spanish wine to the Philippine capital. Thus, Barcino was born. With a name tracing its roots to the Latin name of Barcelona during the Roman period, Barcino kick started business in the country with a small shop in Ortigas. Business boomed and expanded to different parts of the metro—Fort Bonifacio and Makati. Now with four branches set up at City Golf Complex in Ortigas Center, Forbeswood Heights (The Fort), and Greenbelt 2 and 5, and a few more coming in
82 \
the next months, Barcino has built a following not only of wine experts but also of first timers. “People tend to be a little scared of wine,” Rostoll relates. “With Barcino, we want to change that notion. With wine, you don’t need to be an expert, you don’t need to spend so much or be so formal.” Comfort in wine is the shop’s main goal. Barcino’s wine list consists of a multitude of affordable wines not only from Spain, but also from other countries such as Argentina, Chile and Portugal. It also boasts of a wide selection of tapas (Spanish finger food) and traditional Spanish dishes. This goal of comfort also translates in the shop’s interiors. Barcino from the inside dictate a certain kind of coziness so as not to intimidate its customers. “When you come to Barcino, we want you to feel like you’re someplace else,” muses Rostoll. Indeed, the antique, wood-and-barrel-filled interiors channels the typical wine bar in Barcelona. “We want people to go to Barcino and feel like they went to Spain,” Rostoll adds. Truly, with a bottle of wine, a plate of tapas, good conversation with friends and Spanish music softly playing in the background, Barcino proves to be more than just a wine shop—it is an experience of the Catalans life.—JY
P H O T O G R A P H E R t e k s pa b u ay o n
/ 83
\
a
d
d
\ lo u i e E m p i re
e
n
d
u
m
/
F
&
B
y s m ael :
state
of
m i n d
“If you can’t take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.” That was the very bold statement of Louie Ysmael when asked for an advice that he could give to aspiring entrepreneurs. Dubbed as the “Disco King,” “King of Manila Nightlife” and now “Fine Dining King,” he is a pioneer when it comes to running a club and a restaurant business. Louie has always been interested in business since he was a kid, but he never thought he would be running clubs. He admits that he loves to go out and find nice places. This somehow inspired him in putting up his own establishments. His first establishment was Stargazer, located in Silahis Hotel. It was a penthouse disco overlooking the bay and was opened on January 1980. In 1984, he moved to the Hyatt Penthouse where he established Louie Y. He admits that this establishment is part of his crowning glory, since Hyatt pirated him and put up a club on his name. The place only lasted for two years because of the EDSA Revolution but it had a reputation of being the ultimate party place. Louie then moved to Makati and established Pare—a private
84 \
PHOTOGRAPHER aila fADERA
club wherein people can do ballroom dancing. In fact, it is the first ballroom club in the metro. There was a restaurant outside the place which he also owned, and it was called Kuya—a classy restaurant despite its baduy-sounding name. During the ‘90s, Euphoria was born. It was another legendary nightspot which gave Louie another jewel on his crown. It was followed by the birth of Venezia, a buzz-worthy upscale bar and resto that served as a party place for elites and other famous personalities. Then for the last seven years, Louie is running Nuvo, a finedining restaurant and bar located at Greenbelt 2. Nuvo was born out of Louie’s urge to create a restaurant and bar with a European feel. “It is one-of-a-kind, and is a nice place to have dinner as well as pre- and post dinner drinks,” he shares. Being in the industry for three decades, Louie has witnessed the ups and downs of Manila’s nightlife and dining scene. “It is not that easy to put up a club and a restaurant, especially now because of competition,” he shares. “You should really know what you are doing.”—ML
\ t h e
ne w
c h i nese
P H O T O S b y TP
Putting a spin on the traditional Chinese cuisine we all know and love, Choi Garden offers Chinese fine dining without risking your health and cutting your pockets. Situated on the stretch of Annapolis Street in Greenhills, Choi Garden is both a place of visual and gastronomic delight. With its brightly lit tunnel-like entrance, the restaurant welcomes its diners with a good first impression. It then leads them to its elegantly designed dining hall, with deep red and black interiors, plush seating and traditional Chinese decorations. The restaurant provides the air of aristocracy and sheer elegance without intimidating its diners. The ambiance is perfect for big gatherings and family dining, something Choi Garden was made for. The main attraction, however, lies in the food. With a wide array of choices—from white chicken, to pork, beef and duck—Choi Garden
serves familiar Chinese dishes without hassling your health, something that makes it distinct from all other Chinese restaurants in the metro. “If it’s not good, if it’s not up to our standard, we don’t use it”, relates Mr. Choi, owner of Choi Garden and the newly opened HK Choi at Megamall Atrium in Ortigas Center. Just like Choi Garden, HK Choi’s main focus is in the quality of the food and the trust of its customers. All dishes must be fit to their standards—clean, fresh and healthy. Both Choi restos use less salt, less oil, and no MSG—without having to sacrifice taste and flavor. Indeed, once tasted, their meals don’t seem to be cut out of the usual flavorings; they still deliver authentic Chinese gourmet taste. To top it all off, prices are surprisingly reasonable considering the overall fine dining feel of Choi Garden and HK Choi.—JY
/ 85
\
a
d
d
\ h a u te
e
n
d
u
m
/
F
&
B
Man i la
P H O T O S b y TP
“It’s always about putting your best foot forward. It’s all about perception.” This is what Philippine Tatler editor-in-chief and now restaurant owner, Anton San Diego, continues to imbibe in his newest venture—The Establishment. A sprawling restaurant complex located at The Fort in Taguig City, The Establishment brings a fine-dining experience to the country that could rival that of neighboring Singapore, Hong Kong and Jakarta. Inside are five restaurant concepts each serving different cuisines from modern Asian, French bistro to Spanish tapas. From its appetizers to deserts, The Establishment boasts of the delectability of each dish served. Conceptualized by famed restaurateur Margarita Forés and Nobu-trained chef Godfrey Laforteza, it can only be expected that the food are of impeccable standard. Even their “mocktails” and signature drinks, the likes of the popular Chocnut Martini and the Tulipan, do not miss a beat.
86 \
Ever detail-oriented, San Diego made sure that dining doesn’t stop with the food. The interiors, designed by Anton Mendoza, dazzle the eye and complement the experience and use of each room. The Main Hall, used for dinners and events, is the largest, with dark silhouettes of vines lining the wall and eerily lit by candles and pin lights; the Crystal Room, on the other hand, is light, open and narrow, perfect for lunch. The Tulipan, being a bar and lounge room, is the coziest area. Truly, The Establishment is built to wow its diners, both through its food and the artistry of its interiors. With a name synonymous to institution, The Establishment does just that—standardize a concept of what fine dining should be and each one is sure to depart with a smashing first impression.
\
\ l u x u r y
a
d
d
e
n
d
u
m
/
S
T
Y
L
E
treats
TOD’S ITALIAN TOUCH Tod’s celebrates Italian lifestyle with the publication of Italian Touch an exclusive book edited by renowned Italian journalist Donata Sartorio. Italian Touch is an in-depth look at Italian families that are confidently understated and innately refined. The photographs capture people who seem to naturally evoke Tod’s style, its essential and discreet designs, who define a unique elegance and aristocracy that go beyond fashion.Italian Touch is published worldwide by Skirà and distributed in selected bookstores.
JEWELMER HOLIDAY OFFERINGS jewelmer welcomed the special time of the year with its Holiday Offerings for Christmas 2009: The Jewelmer Gift Cheque was available for the first time in showrooms with Php5,000 and Php10,000 denominations. The Noël pendant features a lustrous Palawan South Sea pearl suspended from an 18-karat gold pin.
PRADA STORE IN FLORENCE REOPENS In September 2009, Prada reopened its completely renovated Florentine store via Tornabuoni in the heart of the city center. The store’s layout now unites the previously separated men’s and women’s stores. Walls covered in pastel green canvas are the distinctive element of Prada stores worldwide; entrances’ chequered floor in black and white marble recalls the historic Prada store opened in 1913 in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan.
/ 87
\
a
d
d
e
n
d
u
m
/
S
T
Y
L
E
raoul fall/winter collection 2009
L-R: Raoul Men’s Long Sleeve Shirt, Leather Jacket, Flat Front Pants, Fur Scarf, Business Lace Up Shoes; Raoul Men’s Long Sleeve Shirt, Slim Tie, Fur Coat, Flat Front Pants, Slim Buckle Belt
BOTTOM, L -R: Raoul Women’s Lace Shirtdress with Sash, Faceted Stone Necklace, Resin Ring with Diamontes ; Raoul Women’s Tr iple Folded Lapel Bodysuit, Leather Skinny Pants, Square Diamonte Belt, Pearl Loop Earrings, Square Diamonte Ring, Victoria Per forated Wristlet, T-Bar Wedges; Raoul Women’s Scar f N ec k Sleeveless Top, Slim Skir t, Shawl, Red Clasp Belt, Suede Boots
88 \
fred perry
In this image: Raf Simons for Fred Perry mohair shortsleeve turtleneck Below, L-R: David Saunders of David David for Fred Perry “Blank Canvas” collaboration shirt, Comme des Garçons for Fred Perry collaboration shirt, S/S ‘09 Pique Shirt Dress
/ 89
\
a
d
\ l i e u
d
d e
e
n
d
u
m
/
S
T
Y
L
E
m ontres
Wanting to house their middle to high-end brands, Wizer conceptualized a store, dubbed “Montre,” to be a venue for their customers to experience and appreciate timepieces. Being in the watch distribution industry for 45 years, they have gained the trust of watch connoisseurs in the Philippines. Montre is doing its best to compete head on with the major players in the industry by making sure that they carry investment pieces which are preferred by watch enthusiasts. The store is carrying different Swiss watches, with flagship brands such as Perrelet, Rado, Mido, Tissot, Frederique Constant, Doxa and Vostok to name a few. Montre’s brands target different market sectors. For stylish and sporty individuals, Tissot is recommended as it combines stylish exterior with sporty functions. Frederique Constant is suitable for those who want a watch that they can use from casual to formal event. Doxa is targeting individuals who are fond of diving and is a status symbol for a diver’s lifestyle. Vostok, on the other hand, is a brand targeted towards the yuppies. The newest line of Vostok, the Ekranoplan, is the only watch that uses Tritium Illumination Technology that illuminates the watch hands or numbers and indexes as compared to others that only use LED. For those who prefer timeless pieces, Rado is the perfect brand. Rado brags about its prestigious history as its watches have been passed on from one generation to another. It redeemed itself by
coming up with stylish and sleek designs and incorporating its hightech ceramics in their latest collection of watches. For connoisseurs who are particular with technicalities, Perrelet and Mido are the brands for them. Perrelet is the inventor of automatic watches and an attraction for watch connoisseurs because of it is 100-percent hand crafted from Switzerland. Mido, on the other hand, is the inventor of the unique Aquadura cork crown sealing system, thus making it the “King of Waterproof Watches.” One of Montre’s pricy watches is Rado’s Coupole Blue Fascination which retails at Php1.9 million. This watch combines the most exclusive materials like gold, diamonds and sapphire. The hands inset in diamonds stand out on the deep-sea blue dial while the bracelet unites brilliant blue sapphire disks with diamond inlaid intermediate elements. The case, the crown and the folding clasp are also made from solid 18-carat gold. The store also sells limited edition watches, such as the Perrelet Automatic Tourbillon which only has twenty pieces worldwide. The traditional, flying tourbillon caliber is set in a modern case made of satin-brushed titanium and polished 18-carat rose gold. It gained the much-coveted Controle Officiel Suisse des Chronometres (COSC) certificate, the official chronometer testing institute of Switzerland. Montre has branches at The Podium, SM North Edsa Annex, SM Mall of Asia and SM City Cebu Northwing.—ML
\
a
d
d
e
\ u nco v er
n
d
u
m
/
S
T
Y
L
E
l u x u rY
TV personality Daphne Oseña Paez gave style aficionados, professional interior designers and lovers of luxurious linens a peek into the private world of five notable lifestyle celebrities. The vivacious and engaging host of Urban Zone presented in November 2009 at the Atrium of SM Megamall the Holiday Collection of bed linens and accessories from her Daphne Oseña Paez line under the Linens Direct brand through the event entitled, “Uncover More Luxury.” The designs comprising of the line’s holiday collection represents Daphne’s very own style—classic but with subtle infusions of modern elements that combine to spell fun and wit. Fashion-forward Robbie Carmona was captured in the Tivoli
92 \
design, make-up artist Krist Bansuelo used the Aurora, TV host David Celdran showed his “wild” side using the Sahara Sunset, blogger and bag aficionado Inggrid Go stayed chic with the Charm design and designer & columnist Cecile Zamora Van Straten used Great Lake. Daphne used Plum Opulence from Linens Direct’s latest collection—an elegant design inspired by traditional Victorian prints. Indeed, luxury that is attainable and innovative are the hallmarks of this extremely sumptuous bed linens and accessories from the holiday collection of the DOP-Linens Direct line. The Daphne Oseña Paez Line and all the other collections of Linens Direct is available at all major Our Home stores nationwide.—JY
\
a
d
d
e
n
d
u
m
/
c
u
lt
u
r
e
REELLIFE Autobiographical movie that inspires
COCOAVANTCHANEL an icon's story
Coco avant Chanel: A movie on the life of fashion icon Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel, directed by Anne Fontaine
The birth of a fashion icon is captured on film through Coco Avant Chanel, one of 2009’s most celebrated films in and beyond the fashion industry. Coco Avant Chanel chronicles the young Parisian couturier Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel’s training years—her journey from modest beginnings as an orphan to eventually, successfully weaving herself into the French elite through her exceptional personality and vision. The film features the glorious French backdrop meshed with the luxurious fashion of the time. Faithfully depicted all throughout is Chanel’s revolutionary “less-is-more” approach to style. Chanel is best known for having broken all the fashion rules early on in her career, with her modern style outlook and slightly masculine aesthetic. She made famous tweed jackets and trousers, form-fitting little black dresses, and a subdued palette preference for black and white for women at a time when ladies were wore corsets, flap dresses and colorful ensembles. Through the collaboration with Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel’s current creative director, this Anne Fontaine independent film was given rare access to archives and was lent elusive pieces from Chanel’s personal collection of apparel and fine jewelry. Featuring acclaimed international actress Audrey Tautou who plays the elegant Coco, Tautou is likewise the newest face behind the world’s best selling and most successful fragrance in history, Chanel No.5. In 1921, Coco launched Chanel No. 5, her first-ever fragrance. Today after 88 years since its inception, it continues to be the world’s most legendary scent, and remains the company’s most famous perfume. In line with this, Rustan Commercial Corporation—the official and exclusive distributor of Chanel cosmetics and fragrance hosted the exclusive Philippine movie previews made possible through the support of the French Embassy, The Peninsula Manila, Mandarin Oriental Suites, Moet and Chandon Champagne, Gateway Cineplex and Rockwell Powerplant Cinema. The brilliant portrayal by Tautou had garnered her raves from critics the world over—capturing Coco’s muted aggression and unapologetic discernment for elegance. In conjunction with the movie, Tautou’s muchtalked-about Chanel No. 5 commercial was also recently revealed where she reunites with her Amelie director Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Tautou is the latest to join elusive roster of Chanel No. 5 muses including the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Catherine Deneuve and most recently, Nicole Kidman. Chanel No. 5 was a revolutionary scent, the first perfume to evoke the true woman’s unique and individualistic personality. In an era where perfumes were floral and pretty, Chanel wanted a perfume that reflected strength and character, without losing her femininity.
Chanel No. 5 is exclusively distributed by the Rustan Commercial Corporation and is available in all Rustan’s Department Stores: Makati, Shangri-La Plaza Shopping Mall, Gateway, Alabang Town Center, Robinsons Place, and Ayala Center Cebu.
/ 93
\
a
d
d
e
n
d
u
m
/
c
u
lt
HOMEGROWN Local treasures of the south
bulawan
the gold of camarines norte at ayala museum
“Bulawan: the Gold of Camarines Norte” is the brilliant result of the fruitful collaboration among the CNIIB, DTI, jewelers, and one of Camarines Norte’s most noted artists, Dr. Joaquin Gasgonia Palencia, a native of Daet. Composed of a suite of an eight-design lines in high-quality 18 karat gold jewelry, “Bulawan” is the result of the artist’s meditation on the natural motifs and unique cultural heritage of Camarines Norte, rendered through elegant and daring designs, and executed with high precision and faithfulness to the concept by their respective jewelers. Among the themes culled from nature and the cultural heritage of Camarines Norte are: Sinahâ, the form of an abaca stem cut crosswise; Hinâgot, the shape of hand-decorticated pineapples leaves; Pinalaspas, Balisô-sô, which are local glutinous rice or cassava-based cakes shaped into triangles; Ilog, Pabitin, Pinalay mimics the golden kernels of life-giving rice which is at the heart of local agriculture; and Alon. Each of these motifs have their corresponding jewelry items, in the form of necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings and bangles in 18 karat yellow gold. These one-of-a-kind jewelry items was presented in a major exhibition at the Artist Space of the Ayala Museum in November 2009. To highlight this affair, a fashion show featuring the dresses of the School of Fashion and the Arts (SOFA) and models from Camarines Norte was presented for clients, the public, and media to see the gold jewelry designs to maximum effect, as worn. For more information, you can visit www.camarinesnortegold.com.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Pinalay earrings; Hinagot ring; Pinalaspas bracelet; Baliso-so necklace
94 \
u
r
e
onstage Theater performance to look out for
CATS
the classic masterpiece by andrew lloyd webber
A n d r ew L loy d W e b b e r’s stunning masterpiece Cats will premiere in Manila! One of the best-known and best-loved musicals the world has ever known, Cats tells the imaginative tale of a tribe of Jellicle Cats as they gather together for the annual Jellicle Ball, and one by one tell their stories for the entertainment of Old Deuteronomy, who must choose one of the Cats to journey to the Heavyside Layer to be “reborn” into a new life. With a magnificent score composed by the legendary Webber— including the poignant hit song “Memory”—an imaginative set, inspired choreography and stunning costumes, Cats is a brilliant song and dance spectacular not to be missed. Playing Grizabella is Lea Salonga, one of Manila’s finest musical performers who is recognized for having won the Olivier, Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics and Theatre World Awards, the first tow in various international awards for a single role. This highly-anticipated musical, featuring an international cast, will be performed for a strictly limited season at the CCP, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, from July 24, 2010 onwards. Tickets are priced from Php750 to Php7,000 and are available at all TicketWorld outlets, selected National Bookstore branches, Robinsons, Department Store, Ayala Center and TicketWorld Office. To book, call (632) 891-9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.
ccp welcomes new president
Former Philippine Ambassador to Spain Isabel Caro Wilson is the new president of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). Elected by the Board of Trustees in late 2009, Wilson was presented to the CCP staff during their general assembly on December 8 by Chairperson Emily Abrera. Essentially an entrepreneur, Wilson is chairman of the board of several companies, among them, Business Machines Corporation, Rhine Marketing Corporation, Metals Engineering Resources Corporation, Carson Corporation and Carson Holdings & Development
Corporation. She is a director of the Asian Cultural Council of the Philippines, Pandiman Philippines, House of Investments and Indra Philippines, Inc. She also served as senior adviser for Spain and Portugal, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as president of the Dasmariñas Village Association and Dasmariñas Village Street Children Foundation. The new president, who has been a trustee of the CCP for six years, addressed the CCP Assembly briefly, promising to uphold transparency and the true spirit of service in the arts and culture sector.
\
a
\ i n
d
d
t h e
e
n
d
u
m
/
loo p
1 LIVE WITH CHIVALRY: Chivas Regal Event Chivas Regal unveiled the “Live with Chivalry” campaign at the Establishment Bar at the Fort, Taguig City and had a stylish and successful turnout as the country’s most dashing and loveliest came to the event in full chivalry mode. The regional mentoring manager for Chivas Brothers Limited, Darren Hosie flew in from Scotland and led the ceremonial toast of the evening. Guests were treated to a night of sumptuous hors d’oeuvres and overflowing Chivas. The event honored our country’s most distinguished gentlemen who embody the values of chivalry: Gallantry, brotherhood, freedom and honour. These gentlemen were mountain climber Romi Garduce, club owners Carlo Trillo, Erik Cua and Conrad Alcantara, photographer Mark Nicdao and blogger Carlos Celdran.
4
2
3
5
6 CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 1 Romi Garduce, Conrad Alcantara, Darren Hosie, Kevin Lee, Carlos Celdran, Erik Cua, Carlo Trillo / 2 Mark Nicdao / 3 Joanne Quintas, Tim Yap, Divine Lee / 4 Darren Hosie / 5 Louie Ysmael / 6 Patrick Tan, Conrad Alcantara, Kay Alcantara, Stacy Alfonso, Jessie Suaco
96 \
100 Magazine: In Vino Veritas In an effort to help the victims of Typhoon Ondoy, 100 magazine, the most coveted list in business lifestyle, in partnership with Barcino Wine Cellar & Tapas Bar, held a fund-raising drive through a benefit event entitled “In Vino Veritas.” The only business lifestyle magazine partnered with Habitat for Humanity to spread the message of home and community building. The event highlighted Spanish wine and cuisine through a wine-pairing benefit last October at Barcino The Fort and guests were encouraged to donate to the cause. “In Vino Veritas” was in partnership with Barcino, Sledgers, Primer Group of Companies, Business World and High Life Magazine.
c’est deliceux: 100 magazine f&b list launch 100 magazine celebrated the country’s food and beverage industry through its 2nd edition, dubbed “100 F&B List: Taste This.” The sophomore issue was launched at Lusso Champagne Bar, Greenbelt 5 in partnership with Cibo di M.The event honored iconinc food brands, restaurants, delicacies and top chefs, including 100 cover personalities Margarita Araneta Fores and Rob Pengson. Moet & Chandon, Bacardi, Bombay Sapphire, Jewelmer, Dental First, Panoly Resort Boracay and Thai Airways sponsored the event.
\
a
\ i n
d
d
t h e
e
n
d
m
/
loo p
MANGO, the most international Spanish fashion brand, celebrated its 10th anniversary at the NBC Tent in Fort Bonifacio Global City, which was transformed into an elegant Black and White Mango Exhibition. Four of the major fall-winter themes were unveiled dramatically during the event from hidden stages high above the cocktail area where everyone was just left in awe of the
98 \
u
fashionable display. After the reveal, the joyous Mango fans continued to enjoy the sumptuous food and drinks provided by The Peninsula Manila and Premiere Wines. Clockwise from top left: Amina and Rafa Alunan; Karyll and Rosa Gualberto of Mango; Divine Lee; Charina Sarte; Maggie Wilson and Victor Consunji; Bea Constantino
APPRECIATING LUXURY An exquisitely choreographed degustation dinner was held at the magnificent Lexus Manila in celebration and appreciation of Hennessy X.O. Appreciation took shape in the choice of music as operatic voices of Primo serenaded the audience. Afterwhich, the unveiling of the large format Hennessy X.O glistened through the golden curtain. Luxury is all about appreciation
of all the finest ingredients and allowing them to work in synergy in bringing forth good friends and business partners together into an experience of the nobility. Truly an experience of the finest quality. Clockwise from top: Maurice Arcache, Cristine Rojas, Pepper Teehankee, Mike Toledo, Mayenne Carmona; Arnaud Mirey, Olga Azarcon, Suzette, Manny Lopez; Daniel Isla; and Anna & Chito Sobrepena
\
\ p ara d i se
a
d
d
e
n
d
u
m
/
r
&
r
ca p t u re d
Photographs by (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): Jake Verzosa / Jo Ann Bitagcol / Jun de Leon / Mark Nicdao / Sara Black / Paolo Pineda
Tucked away from the mainland of Camarines Sur, there lies a cluster of limestone islands that holds some of the country’s most breathtaking beaches. Beautifully raw, the peninsula is a tropical paradise. Boasting of bountiful natural resources bound to make one in sync with nature, Caramoan is also an untapped adventure locale with its wide waters to kayak on and dive in, caves to explore, rocks and cliffs to climb. Before, very little is known about it. It was a secret waiting to be unearthed and that’s exactly what Camarines Sur’s trailblazing leader Gov. L-Ray Villafuerte did. He propelled Caramoan to the tourism limelight, locally and globally. Caramoan is now a dream destination not only for fellow Filipinos but also for film and television production crews from the world over.
The young leader pushed Caramoan further taking it to the metro’s art world through a coffeetable book entitled Caramoan x6. Together with the creative vision of photographer Jun de Leon and the unique eyes of five of the country’s top shooters—Jo An Bitagcol, Sarah Black, Mark Nicdao, Paolo Pineda and Jake Verzosa— Caramoan’s beauty is captured in stunning photographs both in full color and monochrome. From its landscapes, colors and its people’s everyday lives, Caramoan’s unique story is told. Caramoan x6 was unveiled through a photo exhibition held at the Greenbelt 5 Fashion Walk with large-scale photographs displayed and auctioned off. To learn more about this hidden eden, visit www. caramoanislands.com.
\
a
\ i t
d
d
e
n
e x i sts
d
i n
u
m
/
t h ese
R
&
R
i slan d s
Silence, precious silence...immersed in a cocooned setting of lush greenery, punctuated by lapping waves and rustling tree branches, modern white, breathtaking views from sheer cliffside drops... All these are encapsulated in Bellarocca, the dreamy island resort set in idyllic, untouched Marinduqueâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a slice of secret solitude far, far away from it all. Situated in Elefante Island, Bellaroca lulls you with glimpses of its pristine white structures, exquisite isolated spaces, calming nature sounds, magnificent views of the blue ocean and neighboring volcano, combined with unpretentious landscaped charm, weaving a hypnotic spell that lingers over all its visitors. Geometric white forms, nestled comfortably on the spacious 20-hectare pachyderm-shaped private island, painted in brilliant sunshine and casting dynamic shadows, are a picture of a fantasy out of a seaside Greek holiday. It is like a secret faraway place, a true escape that makes one pause in awestruck wonder and think, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wow! This is the Philippines?â&#x20AC;?
100 \
How does one describe the Bellarocca experience? It takes the form of many dimensions. It begins with the pickup from the Marinduque Airport by friendly and professional resort staff, who ensures that the transfer of passenger and belongings are seamless. The 45-minute drive through the provincial towns Gasan and Buenavista, both native examplars of Philippine rural life, is pleasantly scenic and punctuated by glimpses of the beckoning blue Sibuyan Sea through coastal trees and foliage, as well as the ubiquitous black piglet, a novel sight for many! It is also enhanced by the views of the sea increasing in frequency and dimension, until passengers are treated with an astounding panorama of Elefante Island breaking through the trees right before arrival at the port. The build-up of anticipation is greeted with salt spray, a flurry of getting life vests snug and tight while planting feet firmly against any high waves, and finally by the warm, welcoming team at the Bellarocca marina. For those arriving via private yacht or helicopter, visitors are golf-carted directly up to the main reception lobby and are formally welcomed with refreshments and escorted to their luxurious modern accommodations. Whether arrival is via private helicopter, yacht, or resort shuttle/boat service, one already knows that visiting Bellarocca is something truly novel and unique.
AU T H O R c a rm e n m i l a gr o s o c a m p o r e y e s / photograph e r chr i s t o p h e r c o r n e j o
/ 101
\
a
d
d
e
n
d
u
m
/
R
&
R
One senses the high standards set with its five-star service and facilities, providing the ultimate in tropical island paradise hospitality. Anything guests would possibly need is catered to with utmost courtesy plus that trademark Filipino smile. Chauffeured golf carts are available at a moment’s notice to take visitors anywhere on the island. An award-winning chef creates gastronomic delights, while adjusting to special requests and preferences. Tour schedules and packages can be efficiently arranged and customized at the front desk. As with any luxury hotel, service is prompt, well-mannered and discreet. To complement the service experience, Bellarocca offers an astounding plethora of choice, with something different for every type of guest, from the solitude-seekers, nature-lovers and honeymooners, to families, party animals and watersports enthusiasts. There are spaces for solitude, peaceful contemplation and pampering at the Hillside Spa for city dwellers seeking simply to get away from urban stresses. Bellarocca’s astounding beauty and hidden spaces are an ideal and romantic backdrop for honeymooners. Its watersports equipment and nine-hole golf course a boat ride away are available for sports enthusiasts. The Marinduque mainland nearby offers natural and historical sites and cultural attractions for explorers, history buffs and tourists. Nature lovers will settle into the resort with ease in the picnic grove, numerous gardens and hidden paths that they can explore to their hearts’ content. Health buffs can enjoy the gym and the Meditation Sanctuary’s yoga and pilates classes. For those who prefer to party in a special place, the Seaside Pavilion deck offers a breathtaking sunset venue for lounge chilling, while the Eternity Pool with Sunken Bar is conducive to family gatherings or poolside parties. The staggering Presidential Suite, a full
102 \
mansion in its own right with sprawling deck spaces overlooking the ocean for the ultimate in outdoor entertaining, or simply for those who need large expanses of space, is apropos for larger groups or bigger events, featuring the highest lookout point of the island. For those who must remain connected at all times, a vacation in a secluded island paradise cannot be complete without the convenience of wireless internet, available upon request. Not only do guests get the privilege of choice in terms of activities but also in terms of a luxurious variety of accommodation types. They get to choose from a variety of views and levels of space, isolation and privacy, from the Hotel rooms, Terrazas & Casas, Garden Villas and Cliffside Villas. The Dedon furniture and Hansgrohe, Axor, Kohler and Duravit bathroom fixtures are eye candy for design aficionados, while Denon, Primare and Martin Logan are provided for the ear tuned to perfection. No detail is left unattended. To match its natural setting and luxurious amenities, organic brands Ren, L’Occitane, Molton Brown, Dentiste and Aveda are the bathroom toiletry brands of choice. All this, to suit every guest’s individual needs in the best manner possible. Despite its modern, top quality amenities, facilities as well as well-trained staff, there is still an untouched quality and a mystical air that permeates through the island and spreads a contagious spell of peace on all who visit. With all that the resort offers, guests, swaddled in luxury and spoiled for choice, cannot help but leave feeling like a million bucks, wanting more of the Bellarocca experience. Contact Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa at Tel. No. 632.817.7290 or e-mail info@bellaroccaresorts.com.
/ 103
\
a
d
\ C E B U
d
e
n
d
u
m
/
R
&
R
C A L L I N G
SHANGRI-LA’S MACTAN and Spa, Cebu is the premier, awardwinning deluxe resort property in the Philippines. Since its opening in October 1993, it has won acclaim from both domestic and international travelers for its spacious and well-appointed guestrooms and suites, the variety of dining, entertainment, sports and recreational activities offered in its paradise-like setting and as home to Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La, one of the largest spa villages in Asia. Nestled amid 13 hectares of lush greenery, landscaped gardens and with a 350-meter exclusive white-sand beach, Shangri-La’s Mactan is an exciting refuge for nature lovers and a favorite among holidaymakers, as it combines rustic surroundings, modern conveniences and genuine Asian hospitality that are distinctly Shangri-La. A paradise for business travelers and holidaymakers alike, the resort has 547 guestrooms and suites. All accommodation facilities give guests spectacular views of verdant greens, the tranquil ocean and the outlying islands surrounding Cebu.
104 \
Discerning diners have a wide selection of cuisine and entertainment options—Tides, an all-day dining buffet of international dishes; Acqua, a modern restaurant serving authentic Italian and; Tea of Spring offers a selection of traditional, contemporary, herbal, vegetarian and fragrant Chinese cuisine. At Cowrie Cove, guests dine under a canopy of stars and with the sound of ocean waves directly below the alfresco deck. The adjacent Chill-out Bar is the perfect venue for guests to have cocktails from sunset to twilight. Looking out onto the vast Visayan Sea is the resort’s Paradise Island, an idyllic venue at the middle of the private beach cove, perfect for guests to have a romantic dinner, an intimate reception or even a private ceremony. Whether for business or leisure, relaxation or luxury, Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, Cebu offers a wide variety of services for the discerning traveler. For more information or reservations, please contact a travel professional or log on to www.shagri-la.com.
\
106 \
a
d
d
e
n
d
u
m
/
1
0
0
MAN
photograph e r p a o l o n a v a rr a
\ n i v at c h antarac h ot i t h e globetrotter
At a young age, Nivat Chantarachoti has gone places. Being the son of a diplomat, he lived in different countries, immersed with different people, and learned different cultures. He did his primary schooling in New York, continued on to secondary education at International School in Bangkok and finished it at Colegio San Agustin in the Philippines while his father was assigned here. Nivat was into computers and programming. In fact, he graduated from De La Salle University with a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Computer Science. But after college, he wanted to take a break and travel the world. To achieve this, he decided to join the airline industry and that is how he got into Thai Airways.
/ 107
\
a
d
d
e
n
d
u
m
/
1
0
0
MAN
He started as a flight attendant at Thai Airways and promised his parents that he would quit after two years of working to take his master’s degree in the United States. He then traveled the world and experienced lots of cultures which made it harder for him to quit the job. He wanted to visit all the destinations being offered by Thai Airways. “Being young and so eager to explore the world, I got carried away,” he shares. “I was enjoying myself—being paid to travel.” After five years of being a flight attendant, Nivat decided to apply for a position of management trainee at Thai Airways. His MBA degree, which he took in Thailand, gave him an edge for the said position. As a management trainee, he underwent two years of rigid training in Thailand and in other parts of the globe. He was posted to Sydney, Australia and worked as assistant to the general manager. After four years, he was transferred to Paris, France as deputy general manager before moving to Bali, Indonesia where he worked as the general manager. He was also the general manager for Bangladesh and was supervising the airline operation in Dhaka and Chittagong.
“Being young and so eager to explore the world, I got carried away,” he shares. “I was enjoying myself—being paid to travel.”
\
a
d
d
e
n
d
u
m
/
1
0
0
MAN
In 2007, Nivat was posted here in the Philippines as the general manager. He likes it here, and admits that he grew very close to the country. “This is like my second home already,” he says. “I’m very comfortable here. I feel very much at home in the Philippines. I love Filipino food and I can say that I can easily get along with Filipinos because I know how Filipinos think.” Nivat has been proudly working with Thai Airways for twenty years. “As a Thai, to be able to work for the national carrier of your country is something I will be always proud of,” he shares. He considers the airline’s inauguration flight to Chittagong as one of his greatest achievements in his career at Thai Airways. In the Philippine market, Nivat was successful in positioning Thai as a premium world class airline. During his first year as general manager in the country, he was able to increase their sales by 30-percent and led the airline in achieving their sales target after so many years. Thai Airways has maintained its competitive edge, brand distinction and premium image even though the airline industry is suffering from global economic crisis. The airline made sure that its passengers will have a refreshing travel experience with touches of Thai. When asked about the best thing in working at Thai Airways, Nivat thinks that it is the advantage of seeing things in a different perspective. “You see things from a global point of view,” he shares. He believes that it is not just about the travel benefits and perks. “Working for Thai Airways gives me the experience that money can’t buy.” —ML
\
a
d
d
\ 1 0 0 ' s
e
n
d
u
m
/
p i c k s
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: RUSSIAN STANDARD PREMIUM VODKA LAUNCHED IN RP Russia’s no. 1 premium vodka is now in the country. Russian Standard Vodka is 100-percent authentic-made from Russian ingredients, distilled, bottled and sold in Russia, where it has established itself as the best-selling premium vodka. LOVE CONQUERS ALL: FILIPINA MAKES HISTORY! Lee celebrates 120 years of denim innovation with the awarding of Michelle “Zeay” De Jesus of Caloocan, the Filipina winner of “Lee Make History” Picture Story Competion. With a whopping prize money of US$40,000, Zeay’s entry beat over 10,000 other submissions from all across the Asia Pacific region. JILL STUART INTRODUCES FIRST LINE OF WATCHES Jill Stuart is pleased to bring its chic fashion trends and stylish individuality through the brand’s first line of watches—JILL STUART TIME. The timepiece collection is both edgy and eye catching, meant to be worn by the externally hip and young.
TOP TO BOTTOM: NOOKA Nooka is the brainchild of Matthew Waldman, a New York based artist and designer. With Nooka, Matthew has created a system that translates both as a successful exercise in communication via interface design as well as the more emotional visual vocabulary of fashion and design. The collection includes the following designs: 5th Door, Kid Robot, Leather, Zirc, Zon, Zub, Al and Camo. TUMI ANNOUNCES ARRIVAL OF NEW FALL/WINTER 2009-2010 COLLECTIONS TUMI is pleased to announce the arrival of its Fall/Winter 2009 collections of women’s handbags and men’s collections, both celebrating the heritage and legacy of putting premium to fashion’s modern philosophy and function for intelligent choices in luxury. Highlights of the season includes the TUMI Light, TUMI T-PassTM, Voyageur, Villa, Townhouse and Sundance collection.
\
a
d
d
\ 1 0 0 ' s
e
n
d
u
m
/
p i c k s
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Discover the new Flawless Experience “The Flawless experience”—that’s what Rubby Sy of Flawless wants every Filipino—man or woman—to experience with the relaunch of the skin care clinic that has come to symbolize the ordinary Filipino’s quest for beauty. The rebranding gave way to more spacious, betterplanned, and refreshing clinics in shades of pink, gold and white that guarantees total relaxation to the Flawless customer. Beautiful Inside and Out with MET MET believes that true beauty is the natural reflection of a body that is healthy, and a mind that is radiant with positive energy. Aside from being the most effective premium whitening system, MET also provides the right tools to sustain awareness about beauty, health and overall wellness. Romancing the Luggage Traveling is much like falling in love—it is that first joy that once lost can never be recovered. Emphasizing on appearance, ergonomics and elegance in each of their luggage designs, you’re sure to be hit by the travel cupid’s arrow again.
\
a
d
d
\ 1 0 0 ' s
e
n
d
u
m
/
p i c k s
Man of the Hour with Daniel Hechter Daniel Hechter reinforces the art of being welldressed this season with its timeless masterpieces. Drawing inspiration from the various facets that make up a man, the latest collection speaks of everything from modern allure and urban cowboy to sporty and iconic.
In Massimo Dutti Fashion This season’s collection is inspired by the charm of historical European capitals that have a distinct color all of their own. Fluid garments combine with more avantgarde pieces that play with volume. Designs created for magnetic and confident men.
BRAVO HOLIDAY HAMPER During the holidays, the Bravo Holiday Hampers was the next best thing to tasty treats and comfort foods all packed in good taste and with the best intentions. Sumptuous packages including everything from wines to salad dressings, sauces and spreads were all available in a variety of packaging from wooden boxes to native baskets. Besides that, sauces, dips and dressings are good for the health with it being low on cholesterol and fat. For those who wish to give the gift of authentic, home-style Italian flavor, visit Bravo Ristorante Italiano at 114 HV dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati or at Bravo! kiosks at the Greenhills Tiangge, Rustans Makati, Rockwell, Shangrila and SM Malls.
Reinvent yourself with Michael Kors’ latest collection The new totes offer a vintage look fused with contemporary accents making it a must-have item while the Fall 2009 women’s wear line-up ensures that less is always more. With basic pieces accentuated with stand-out twists, even the tough ones won’t keep you from flying high in style.
Valii Jewelry Watch Unveiled in Manila Valii unlocks its doors to its Filipino clientele as it opens its first store at the Powerplant Mall by presenting their luxurious collections—from the Tecno, Safari, Amore Chrono,Ricco, Cristallo, Roma to the Diva.
Alfred Dunhill Autumn-Winter 2009-2010 The Alfred Dunhill Micro d-Eight collection presents a sleek and stylish range of formal leather goods, each design taking every need of the modern gentleman into consideration, all fully functional for both the weekend or for any business trip.
Business tags along a certain kind of lifestyle, and 100 magazine offers an insiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s point of view. 100, which caters to entrepreneurs and urban professionals, is the first and only business lifestyle magazine in the Philippines. What makes it different is that every issue lists 100 subjects under one business-related theme. This is business with a twist of lifestyle. 100 documents the various industries that influence our society and the names that have helped build them. We are the blackbook to brands, commerce and culture.
Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to subscribe to 100: 2 issues for PHP 560 4 issues for PHP 1,062 NOTE: Subscription offer for Philippines only. For other inquiries, please e-mail corporate@octobereighty.com. Please fill out the information sheet below Last Name
First Name
Middle Name
Address (Street, Village, City/Province, Zip Code)
Email Address
Contact Numbers
Mode of Payment Cash (Deposit to UCPB Savings Acct. No. 196-112149-1) Age:
Birthdate (mm/dd/yyyy)
/
/
Gender:
Check (Payment made to October Eighty Publications, Inc.)
Send this form to the 5F Agustin 1 Building, F. Ortigas Jr. Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines
or fax it to (632) 635.4455
Index
Barcino Unit 101 Forbeswood Heights Rizal Drive, The Fort, Taguig City (632) 900-0726 www.barcino.com.ph
Cultural Center of the Philippines Roxas Boulevard, Pasay, Metro Manila (632) 832-1126
House of Representatives House of Representatives Complex, Constitution Hills, 1126 Quezon City (632) 931-5001 www.congress.gov.ph
Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa Barangay Tungib, Lipata, Municipality of Buenavista, Marinduque http://bellaroccaresorts.com
Department of Environment and Natural Resources Visayas Avenue, Diliman, 1100 Quezon City, Philippines (632) 929-6626 www.denr.gov.ph
Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol Brgy. 10, J. R. Rizal St., Laoag City 2900 Philippines (077) 772 -1211 to 19 www.ilocosnorte.gov.ph
Bo Concept Ground Floor, Mos Design Bldg, Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City (632) 856-2748 ext 1 (0915) 342-1445 Caloocan City Government A. Mabini Street, Caloocan City (632) 288-8811 www.caloocancity.gov.ph Camarines Sur Provincial Capitol Cadian, Pili Camarines Sur (54) 477-3344 www.camsur.com Cebu Provincial Capitol N. Escario Street, Capitol Site, Cebu City (6332) 253-1970 http://www.cebu.gov.ph Choi Garden 12 Annapolis cor. Purdue Sts., Greenhills, San Juan (632) 727-6042
Department of Health San Lazaro Compound, Sta. Cruz, Manila (632) 743-8301 to 23 www.doh.gov.ph Department of the Interior and Local Government A. Francisco Gold Condominium II, EDSA cor. Mapagmahal St, Diliman, Quezon City www.dilg.gov.ph Department of Justice Padre Faura Street, Ermita, Manila (632) 523-8481 www.doj.gov.ph Department of Tourism T.F. Valencia Circle T.M. Kalaw St., Rizal Park, Manila (632) 523-8411 www.wowphilippines.com.ph Establishment Unit A, The Fort Entertainment Complex, 26th Street corner 5th Ave., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City (632) 844-6364 Fred Perry Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City (632) 729-0949
120 \
Makati City Government J.P. Rizal St., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City 1200 Philippines (632) 870-1000 www.makati.gov.ph Manila City Hall Padre Burgos Street, Manila www.manila.gov.ph Metropolitan Manila Development Authority MMDA Building, EDSA corner Orense St., Guadalupe, Makati City (632) 882-4151 to 77 www.mmda.gov.ph Nuvo Greenbelt 2, Greenbelt, Paseo de Roxas cor. Legaspi St., Ayala Center, Makati City (632) 757-3698 Prada Greenbelt 4, Ayala Center, Makati Quezon City Local Government Elliptical Road, Diliman Central, Quezon City (632) 444-7272 www.quezoncity.gov.ph
Raoul Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City Republ1c La Fuerza Plaza Compound, 2241 Don Chino Roces Avenue, Makati (632) 817-0831 http://republ1c.com Senate of the Philippines GSIS Building, Financial Ceter Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City (632) 552-6601 to 80 www.senate.gov.ph Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort Punta Engaño Road Lapu-lapu City, Cebu (63+32) 231-0288 Taguig City Hall General Luna Street, Tuktukan, Taguig City (632) 628-1999 www.taguig.gov.ph Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Complex East Service Rd South Superhighway, Taguig City (632) 811-3499 www.tesda.gov.ph The Stock Market Bldg. 3, Bonifacio High Street The Fort, Taguig City (632) 856-6301 Telefax: (632) 856 6300