Zee Lifestyle December 2017-January2018 by Zee Digital

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Our full digital magazine app launches in January 2018!

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Ramesh Narasimhan

of Nissan Philippines Inc. The NPI President and Managing Director is set on making a mark in the Philippine car market with the global automotive brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s characteristic aesthetic and impressive driving innovations.

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The

style and luxury Issue CONTENTS 12 contributors

49 holiday gift guide

120 fashion

Meet the people behind the issue

Our picks for the best stuffing stuffers this season, and our editorial team’s wish list

We get schooled in fashion as we highlight the unique characters of the work of different local designers

14 editor's note The Fine Print

65 dinner on display

129 nyfw

18 news

Editor-at-Large Melo Esguerra gives his report on fashion in the Big Apple

A rundown of Cebu’s latest trends

A look at the festive holiday dinner we hosted at Rustan’s Department Store, and excerpts from the conversations on Christmas, Cebu and luxury

26 la vie en rose

75 closet cases

Mayenne Carmona lists her favorite style stars, and shares snippets of her visit to Crimson Boracay

Stylish women Nelly Egle, Jaja Chiongbian-Rama and Maria Gigante let us into their closets to talk about their personal style

32 oj jottings Binibining Cebu 2017

38 out of space Windy Gancayco of Gassho Center talks about space clearing, and why we should be doing it

83 conversations A lifestyle discussion with Cebu personalities

93 set the pace The members of PACE talk about Tour de Cebu in their own words

102 cover story Nissan Philippines Inc. President and Managing Director Ramesh Narasimhan talks about the global brand’s plans for the country, and how the Cebu dealers play a part in bringing their vision to life

145 homes A look at an ancestral house in the middle of Cebu, and a modern residence with a view of the Manhattan skyline

159 travel From a luxurious seaside trip to a desert excursion to a cycling ride through Hong Kong, we’re taking you on a trip

173 events A backstage pass to the latest events in Cebu

182 publisher's note Eva Gullas shares why Zee is going digital

108 generation next Young, fresh-faced and ready to take on the world—here are the upand-coming personalities to watch out for

102

ON THE COVER

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Ramesh Narasimhan of Nissan Philippines, Inc. photography Mark Dales grooming Chady Pantaleon locale Montebello Villa Hotel

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executive editor EVA GULLAS editor-at-large MELO ESGUERRA managing editor SHARI QUIMBO assistant editor CARLO RIVERA editorial assistants GIA MAYOLA and KYLA ESTOYA interns ANSYLLE BONTUYAN copy editor JANET ALFAFARA fashion editor OJ HOFER contributing editors MIA ARCENAS, KATSY BORROMEO-CHIONGBIAN creative director EDWIN JAVIER JR.

DECEMBER-january 2018 • Vol 22, No. 8

publisher EVA GULLAS administrative officer JAYLENE GIPALA administrative assistant LAYRA SURBAN senior account manager AMY UNDALOC Manila Office: AILYN TASIC Unit 806 Cityland Pioneer, 128 Pioneer St., Mandaluyong City Tel No. (02) 634-5532, Mobile No. (0939) 493-7184 ZEE Publications, Inc. 888 Plaridel St., Umapad, Mandaue City Cebu, Philippines 6000 Tel. No. (032) 328-4163, (032) 234-2636 Cel. No. (0908) 810-1812 • (0920) 970-1394 Email addresses: EDITORIAL editorial@zeelifestylecebu.com ADMINISTRATIVE jaylene@zeelifestylecebu.com CEBU ADVERTISING amy@zeelifestylecebu.com MANILA ADVERTISING manila@zeelifestylecebu.com

Zee Lifestyle is published by Zee Publications, Inc. Publication schedule: February issue – February 15 • March issue – March 15 • April issue – April 15 May issue – May 15 • June issue – June 15 • July issue – July 15 August/September issue – August 15 • October issue – October 15 November issue – November 15 • December/January issue – December 15 © All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. www.zeelifestylecebu.com | facebook.com/zeelifestyle | @ZeeLifestyle

Zee Lifestyle magazine is available in the Business Class sections and Lounges of Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways and Silk Air and also distributed in the rooms of Alpa City Suites, Alta Cebu Village Resort, Bayfront Hotel, BE Resorts Mactan, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort, Cebu City Marriott Hotel, Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, Harold's Hotel, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, Montebello Villa Hotel, Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu, Plantation Bay Resort & Spa, Radisson Blu Cebu, Shangri-La's Mactan Resort & Spa Cebu, The Henry Hotel.

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CONTRIBUTORS

Katsy Borromeo-Chiongbian

Nicko Dela Peña

Janice Barillo

“Working BTS with Miranda Konstantinidou for the Emerald Ball last year was by far the most memorable. Working with Miranda and her team from Germany was challenging because the standard had been set so high from their previous shows in Europe. But Miranda was the nicest person to work with, and everyone on her team is excellent.”

“Every time I work for a fashion spread with Zee is exciting because I know it’s always something different. One of the most memorable ones was when we did 60s-inspired makeup for Cebuana beauty queens, and did a street photoshoot. It was fun and challenging at the same time.”

“The most memorable collaboration with Zee was when I had the privilege to be featured in the magazine, together with the prolific makeup artists in Cebu last year. Never did I think I’d be featured, and rub elbows with some of the makeup artists that I always looked up to.”

writer

makeup artist

What’s youR most memorable Zee shoot or event?

Chady Pantaleon

Joseph Ong

Mark Dales

“My most memorable Zee experience would have to be my first Zee shoot, featuring Kelsey Merritt. One can never forget their first times, and mine happened to be with a supermodel on the cover. So I would say, that first was a major moment, and I can’t forget that. Thanks Zee!”

“Every assignment and shoot has been memorable, since it showcases what true blue Cebuano talent is all about.”

“My first time working with Zee is shooting for a Noche Buena table set-up. I love Noche Buena because it’s a celebration centered around food and family—two things that are of utmost importance to me.”

makeup artist

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photographer

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EDITOR'S NOTE

The Fine Print

or as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to work in the magazine business. Many afternoons of my childhood were spent flipping through the copies of YM, Seventeen and Teen Beat that my aunt would send me from California. Every academic pursuit, every career decision that I’d ever made had been in pursuit of this dream. It’s funny now, at a time when Zee Lifestyle is positioning itself to take on a new frontier. The world is changing at a dizzying pace, and everyone is facing the choice of whether to keep up or fall to the wayside. The online world beckons, and it’s exciting and scary at the same time—exciting because of the infinite possibilities that this seemingly boundless platform has to offer, and scary because (as much as we like to pretend otherwise) no one really has it completely figured out just yet. In any case, Zee Lifestyle is determined to keep up—our publisher Eva Gullas has a more eloquent way of explaining the choice to go digital on page 182. As for me, I think it’s fitting that we close Zee Lifestyle’s print edition on an issue devoted to Style, a concept that’s all about having enduring individuality amidst changing times and trends. Who knows where the world leads from here? But no matter where we end up in the future, Zee Lifestyle will remain, at its core, a lifestyle bible to chronicle the people, industries and places that are shaping Cebu into what it will become. The collection of people we have in this issue include those who have already molded their respective industries and social circles, and those who we believe are forging their own path towards doing the same. I’m always inspired by the people we feature in each issue of Zee—people who are different, people who are chasing their dreams with a relentless passion, but most especially the people who are adapting and changing direction in pursuit of something greater. We’re heading into territory that nine-year-old Shari with her worn copy of Bop would have never imagined, and that’s okay. What I’ve learned recently is that we should dare to dream—but sometimes, we should also dare to dream differently.

SHARI QUIMBO Editor

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PANDORA

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TRENDS

LET IT BED As the brand promises to get anyone a good night’s sleep, Dunlopillo introduces Talasilver Wave. It is produced using a latex technology that involves electromagnetic waves to vulcanize latex from the inside out. It’s a good mattress that is uniquely design allowing to move freely as you sleep without compromising body support and function. The mattress allows for excellent ventilation and air circulation as it keeps the body temperature at a comfortable feeling. Ayala Center Cebu

GREEN DAY A much-anticipated entrant into the Cebuano food scene, SaladStop! finally brings its “Eat Wide Awake” movement that emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition and diet. Hailed from Singapore, it offers nutritious meals on-the-go where veggies take the stage. And as a lot is shifting to a healthier lifestyle, SaladStop! is healthy and a delicious choice. Try their popular Oh Crab Lah! which has a Singaporean f lavors paired with a mild spicy chili crab dressing. Of course, their Hail Caesar wrap is the bestseller for its classic taste paired with Life’s a Peach, a refreshing combination of peaches and pineapple. Ayala Center Cebu

OIL IS WELL It has all been said and done the philosophy of essential oills and the wellness we get from its single drop. In Cebu now, a group of wellness advocates, the Pure Bliss Essential Oils brought the world leader in essential oils here in the city. A variety of oils are available each with a purpose—lavender to calm the mind, lemon for antiseptic, and frankincense for the immune system. Pure Bliss Essential Oils

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IN THE NOW G2000 embraces the new generation in this new collection, with its new ‘Work for Values’ philosophy— striving for a higher purpose than aiming for material success. With this design, dressing up is made light and easy. The ultra-stylish dress that radiates an effortless elegance and the structured style will flatter all silhouettes with its contemporary fit. Ayala Center Cebu

MUST HAVES The Dorothy Perkins are our ultimate must haves, it is a shortcut to the season’s styles—inspired y catwalks but wearable enough to slot into every wardrobe, consider this the ultimate shopping list for the season. Ayala Center Cebu

SMART COLLECTION It’s hello autumn for Burton Menswear London. A nostalgic mood that echoes a modern British sartorial flavour is captured in the collection in sleek minimalist lines. Softened surfaces herald a luxe appeal in double-breasted coats and sharp collared Harringtons. Ayala Center Cebu

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YOUTH CLASH For the season, Topman experiments with shape and silhouette in an exploration of modern street cultures. Across all trends, it mixes subcultural references and merges with punk, skate, and sportswear. Ayala Center Cebu

PRETTY CHICK Topshop on its Autumn Winter 2017 Collection captured nothing but a sense of reality—through place, space and time. Minimalist at heart, it paired hero pieces with her daily uniform of trousers, cashmere blend knits and pinstriped mensy shirting. Ayala Center Cebu

BELLEVUE HOTEL

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TRENDS

ANYTHING JAPANESE Before we fad about all things Korean, we were drawn to anything Japanese. And with the arrival of the Japanese lifestyle brand Miniso it draws us back to them. A variety store that would specialize in household and consumer goods with a vast inventory of toys, gadgets, cosmetics, stationary, kitchenware, and fashion accessories. This could be a nice venue for a cheap holiday shopping. SM City Cebu

CARD CAPTURE The third edition of Postcards from Cebu released this year couldn’t be more timely as Cebu wins yet another accolade. It’s no surprise that Cebu ranked second in the list of 30 Best Islands in the World based on the Conde Nast Traveler survey for its 2017 Reader’s Choice Awards. Published by Zee Publications, Inc., it is printed as a cross between a magazine and a coffee table book that serves as a inspiration travel guide features colorful pages of the Cebu landscape today. National Book Store

SHOP DROP The Cebuano brand Penshoppe launched a bigger and better store. With the new flagship store that has a surface are of 400 square meters, has revolving elements, denim lapping and nooks and corners—which perfectly capture the youth’s vibe. Ayala Center Cebu

SWEET SHOP We’re glad when Banapple decided to bring its legendary and delicious Banoffee Pie in Cebu. Now that it’s here, we can’t stop raving about it. It’s mini pop-up store serves the best of their specialty desserts from cakes to pies, and you don’t need to have a sweet tooth for you to appreciate this. Ayala Center Cebu

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WELL-WRITTEN Writing has always been part of our being. And as people have gotten used to writing their thoughts through chats, statuses, tweets and blogs, Scribe desires to shift this trend and revive handwriting with pen and paper through their carefully curated products. Its specialty store showcases classic to premium quality of pens, stationary, journals and notebooks offering writing instruments that enhances the whole writing experience. Ayala Center Cebu

LUXURY FOR KEEPS

Adding color to the vibrant scene of Cebu, luxury real estate developer Ayala Land Premier provides a distinctive living experience in the center of the city. D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

ADVERTORIAL

ince the introduction of 1016 Residences as its first residential tower in 2010, Ayala Land Premier has been in Cebu for seven years, making it a prominent force as a luxury real estate developer in the Queen City of the South. Seeing the Cebu market’s warm reception of its first project paved the way for Ayala Land Premier to launch its two succeeding towers within Ayala Center: Park Point Residences in 2012, and The Alcoves in 2015. Growing hand-inhand with Cebu’s rapid development, Ayala Land Premier provides distinctive residences to cater to the city’s affluent families, each with distinct needs and lifestyles. An Ayala Land Premier property is best known for its unmatched location, with projects set centrally or strategically within

1016 Residences

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a large-scale, master-planned, and mixed use estate. It strives to create living environments characterized by impeccable design and innovation, providing intuitive and flexible spaces that are sensitive to the residents’ needs. Ayala Land Premier ensures that this drive to build this kind of environment applies to all aspects of a property, from the overall concept and design down to the highquality materials used. Designed around the lifestyle of its well-heeled residents, an Ayala Land Premier home provides a distinctive living experience defined by utmost comfort, uncompromised convenience, and numerous opportunities that foster a strengthened sense of community. Bearing the Ayala name, it represents the heritage and track record of the country’s oldest conglomerate earning it the reputation of being the

nation’s most trusted developer. Ayala Land Premier’s three residential towers in Cebu, along with landmark developments in Luzon and Mindanao prove that these luxury homes make viable investments not just today, but for generations to come. 1016 Residences enfolds its residents in a sanctuary with a heightened sense of exclusivity and privacy, all while being just a stone’s throw away from Cebu Business Park’s key locations. Residents enjoy direct access to City Sports Club Cebu, and are within walking distance of the region’s premier lifestyle and retail hub, Ayala Center Cebu. Located on top of Ayala Center Cebu, Park Point Residences provides direct access to the mall and to Rustans Department Store and Supermarket. Residents are afforded unmatched convenience, having hundreds of retail and dining options

FROM LEFT Park Point Residences lounge and pool

just an elevator ride away. This property, along with The Alcoves, highlights the distinct and inimitable luxury of location. Instantly discernible from The Alcoves’ facade are six iconic 3-storey high Alcove Gardens, which provide pockets of green spaces for residents to enjoy views of Cebu’s skyline and beyond.With its central location and direct link to Ayala Center Cebu, The Alcoves’ appeal is further complemented by a three-storey podium, comprising additional options for retail and dining. Residents are imbued with a suite of amenities located on various

f loors of the building. Its entire fourth f loor is dedicated to 2,500 square meters of recreational and social amenities, comprising pools, indoor and outdoor play areas and function rooms. Crowning the tower’s 35th f loor is the truly iconic Sky Pavilion, providing a fitness gym and infinity pool back-dropped by breathtaking views of the city and the sea. An Ayala Land Premier home is designed with the discerning resident in mind. Highlyaccomplished, established and welltraveled, its residents are accustomed to distinct preferences, convenience

and numerous lifestyle options. They appreciate good design and value privacy, wanting nothing but the best for their families—a home that is for keeps. Z

Ayala Land Premier is the luxury residential brand of Ayala Land, the Philippines’ leading developer of sustainable estates offering a diverse mix of quality residential and commercial developments that support local economic growth. The Ayala Land Premier showroom is located at the ground floor of The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu.

FROM LEFT An artist's rendering of The Alcoves' majestic facade; The Alcoves' two-bedroom model unit

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La Vie En Rose by Mayenne Carmona

tyle has a broad spectrum of beliefs as it encompasses a whole range of topics. It could refer to a certain era’s style of architecture, a manner of doing business, one’s style of running a household, a way of dancing, of walking, of singing or talking—it could be anything. But in this issue, we are talking about women’s style in fashion. Style in fashion is a distinctive way a person dresses and carries herself. It is very personal and definitive. Fashion writer and analyst Jill Chivers states, “Style is someone’s relationship with their internal self. It is about ‘what’s in here’—my sense of self, my identity, my perception of who I am—and how that is reflected and expressed in what I am wearing.” Stylish women are not necessarily in tune with the fashion of the moment. They create their own fashion, they have an innate sense of what they deem fashionable, and what they wear are not necessarily in stores today. They could be wearing a piece that is decades or more old, and still look fabulous in it. Sociologist Dr. Ruth Quibell says that the pace of fashion is so fast now that keeping up with it is quite impossible, so she suggests that we “strengthen our social selves, our character, rather than simply letting our uniforms do the talking. To do this, we might avoid fashion for a while—to experiment with style, rather than what’s now.” This only reiterates the fact that fashion is just of the moment, but style endures forever. I admire many ladies for their sense of style, and while my limited pages cannot accommodate all of them, here are some of my choices. It seems that all of these ladies have one common denominator: they all veer towards the classic elements of fashion, with just a touch of trendy. They are not slaves to what is currently in the stores, they choose clothes that enhance and flatter their personality, whether they are in casual or formal wear. They are always appropriately dressed for every occasion. Cheers to the timeless elegance of these women of style and substance! Z

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STYLE

Zee Lifestyle columnist Mayenne Carmona comes up with a list of ladies, whose mantra is that of timeless elegance, and talks about her visit to Station Zero, Crimson Resort & Spa’s Boracay venture. Style for me is the essence of a woman. It is what defines her image to the world. I prefer classics because it is timeless. It carries an accepted longevity and transcends trends. -Cong. Gwen Garcia wearing Philip Rodriguez

For me, style is the personal preference in dressing. It’s what suits a person’s body, and playing around with that particular style to further enhance and flatter. I like combining high and low with lots of color—from romantic to edgy—for as long as it fits me well. My personal style would be a play of boho chic and trendy, with a whole lot of color. For the day, you would normally see me in a pair of jeans with a nice comfortable top. I love wearing prints, and accessorize a lot with big earrings, bangles and necklaces. -Tina Cuevas wearing TC Alvarez

STARS Style is personality expressed through your feelings, thoughts and decisions. It informs your disposition, and even your fashion sense. At the end of the day, it’s not really just your clothes or accessories that make you. It’s trite but true that it’s how you carry yourself that’s important. But if you can afford it, dress your best self forward! I go for what I feel most comfortable in, and what suits my personality. I go for modern classics, trendy enough to be young but traditional enough to be dignified. Just the right touch of timeless elegance! -Carla del Prado wearing Inno Sotto

Fashion is what you buy. Style is what you do with it. It is the ability to wear something inexpensive while looking fashionable and sophisticated. A stylish woman doesn’t follow trends, she inspires and influences people through her. My personal style is classic with a twist. I like feminine silhouettes in intricate textures and colors. My style is always evolving because I love to incorporate current trends that I think work best for my body type and mix them into my current wardrobe. -Dr. Aivee Aguilar Teo wearing Inno Sotto

Style is something you own, like your own identity. It is manifested in the way you live, or the way you act. In fashion, style is expressing yourself through what you wear. My personal style is classic with a touch of modern. I love good pieces that will last for seasons, and combine them with the latest trends. -Hera Geriene

Style is whatever makes you feel good, or whatever makes you look good. I am a very classic person in my style of dressing, although sometimes I can go a bit trendy when the occasion commands it. Of course I always consider my age, and so I don’t follow all of the latest fashions. -Mariquita Yeung

wearing Pablo Mendez

wearing Gianfranco Ferre

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La Vie En Rose

Welcome to

Station Zero

o the beach lover, Boracay evokes virtual images of white sand, blue waters and blue skies. This image is brought to reality when one actually experiences a stay in this paradisal island. Taking your island experience to a high level is Crimson Resort & Spa in Boracay. This much awaited resort, opens on the first quarter of 2018. Claiming its space at Station Zero, where it boasts of an exclusive location, Crimson Boracay takes you

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to a place of rediscovering the island. The resort features contemporary design and architecture while highlighting the vibrant accents against natural elements. How you want your ultimate island experience is up to you- from an intimate sunset moment to a lavish celebration, Crimson Boracay gives you both the breathtaking views of the sea and the skies, world class food and banquet to make your stay truly memorable. Your gastronomical needs will be satisfied by the restaurants-

offering an array of international cuisine including Saffron Cafe all day dining, Mosaic Latin American Steakhouse, Azure Beach Club & Pool Bar. Rest and recreate at Aum Spa or in the comfort of your own private pool. Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay has one Presidential Villa, 22 luxurious private villas with plunge pools, 72 one bedroom suites, 97 Deluxe rooms, Saffron Cafe all day dining, Mosaic Latin American Steakhouse, the

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Pavillion, Coral Ballroom, Crizone Kids Club, 3 swimming pools, a Fitness center, Pool Bar, Azure Beach Club & Aum Spa. Whether you have longed for the Boracay of old or wish to indulge in a new leisure destination away from the madding crowd, Crimson Boracay will give you the vacation of your dreams in a heartbeat! Z For more information go to www. crimsonhotels.com; or email: info.boracay@crimsonhotel.com or call: +63-998-5964656

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THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT The deluxe double rooms have calming views of the ocean, Spacious, elegant and inviting, is the Presidential Villa with its own private pool; The Pavillion is the venue of dreams, elevated and enclosed in floor to ceiling glass walls; The swimming pool has lounge chairs facing the spectacular view of the sea; close up of Swimming pool area; A banca ride to a picnic site; the Azure Beach Club pool side is also a party place

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Oj Jottings by Oj Hofer

Oj Hofer picks the best evening gowns from a recent beauty pageant and features colorful hairstyles for your holiday look.

GOWNS GALORE Binibining Cebu, presented by the Sacred Heart School for Boys Batch 1985 Foundation, Inc. through the Bb. Sugbu Charity Foundation, Inc. and Yahoo! Philippines held Femme Fatale: The Binibining Cebu Evening Gown Competition a couple of months ago at Centerstage, SM Seaside City Cebu. Fiftyfour beautiful candidates represented Cebu provinceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cities, towns, and municipalities wearing exquisite gowns by their chosen local designers. The girls sashayed down the runway to theme music from 007 James Bond movies played by Cebu Philharmonic Orchestra and several top-billed singers. Here are this editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s picks from the stunning production.

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Oj Jottings

HAIR FOR THE HOLIDAYS

FROM LEFT: CHIC SHAG–This modern shag features bangs and a dark brown base with lilac balayage highlights. It looks chic and sexy with a bit of fun thrown in; CAPTIVATING COPPER This look features a haircut of inverted layers and Vibrant cherry red tones that melt into rich dark browns with copper ombre shades.

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Your style jotter recently visited David’s Salon at Ayala Center Cebu for an update on this season’s haircut and hair color trends. Managing partner and owner, Josephine Telford arranged a David’s Salon experience for me through a haircut and hair coloring appointment with Eric, one of the senior stylists. Eric created a look that combined balayage highlights and ombre shading to emphasize my blunt bob with an undercut hairstyle. For balayage, he applied color around the hair edge of the undercut with small and medium highlights until a yellowish undercoat was attained. He then washed off the yellow undercoat tones and applied the Affinage 9117 (Silver) to achieve the ash and matte reflective textures on top. Above are two new looks from David’s Salon. These holiday hairstyles reflect the fast, festive and sophisticated mood of the seasons.

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FE ATU RE

Out of Space Shamanic Reiki Master-Teacher Windy Gancayco gives us a crash course on space clearing, and why doing it at home and at work might be just what you need.

ave you ever felt a heaviness upon entering a closed space, or perhaps felt getting drained in a certain place? Perhaps that space is in need of clearing away the negative or stuck energies. When you work with energy, you come to learn that all matter, whether animate or inanimate, exudes energy. Places and objects, just like people, absorb energy from the environment in a constant exchange. So what exactly is space clearing? This concept is far from foreign to Cebuano culture—the Palina practice at local cemeteries urges visitors to purify their bodies of anything unwanted that they may have picked up during their visit. But this practice is actually present around the world, as in Feng Shui or in smudging ceremonies originally led by shamans. Why do we need to do space clearing? We want the spaces we inhabit to be clear and neutral in order to be able to thrive in them. This is actually as important as cleaning out your aircon filter, or changing the oil of your car. The good thing is you don’t need a Feng Shui Master or a shaman to do this—although a little help on the onset isn’t a bad thing. Here are a few ways to help in clearing your own space at home or in your place of work. 1. De-clutter. Old junk, including files and mementos, hold on to stuck energy that may be keeping the space from moving forward. Try keeping these to a minimum, or perhaps storing them appropriately so they do not accumulate dust. If this is something you want to read more about, I recommend Marie Kondo’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up.

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photography Gia Mayola

SPACE NEEDS

Windy suggests these things to use for an effective space clearing. Salt Lamps As it is said to boost one’s mood and energy levels, salt lamps with a bulb inside emits a soothing orange glow that also helps human’s sleep cycle. It absorbs water and particles from the air as it takes positive ions with them and improves air quality by cleansing and deodorizing the air. Ayala Center Cebu

2. Burn Sage. White Sage is the most famous medicinal plant used in space clearing ceremonies. It turns out that this is no coincidence, and that “medical smoke reduces airborne bacteria,” according to the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. In burning sage, make sure the windows of the space are open to allow air to circulate. Light the sage and spread the smoke throughout the room, including dark corners and such. 3. Light incense or a candle. As sage is not always readily available, lighting incense or a candle can also work, provided you set your intention for the space to be cleared. 4. Salt bowls and lamps. Salt is a powerful purifier and can be placed in small bowls in the corners of the space you want to keep clear. Make sure to change it every so often when you see them change in color and take on a darker hue. You can also use salt lamps though in our humid climate, it is a bit tricky to keep them from melting. To do so, you must have the light on most of the time. 5. Crystals. Certain crystals also have the ability to transmute negative energy, including electromagnetic radiation. The most convenient in this case would have to be the black tourmaline, as this does not need to be regularly cleansed as others do. Again, place even a small specimen in areas of your room such as your nightstand, or on your desk by your computer or cellphone. 6. Reiki. Reiki is an energy therapy originating from Japan. More known for its one-on-one therapeutic

virtues, namely for stress relief and immunity boosting, Reiki can also be used in other instances, including space clearing. Any level of Reiki practitioner can infuse a space with Reiki, however you might want to call upon a Reiki master for this particular purpose. Feel free to play around with these suggestions and see what works best for you. What matters most with space clearing is the intention, as well as the regularity of the practice. Make sure this is done after intense discussions or meetings where the air hangs heavy. Having a clear space is the start of a mindful and energetically sound lifestyle. Z

Marie Kondo’s “Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” Be guided by this book of Marie Kondo where she takes tidying to a whole new level. Take notes which items get to stay and which of those needs to go. The book explains in detailed a guidance of a revolutionary way to acquire the unique magic of tidy home. Fully Booked, Ayala Center Cebu Jo Malone Candles Specially made by Jo Malone, the candle transports a complete euphoria as it uplifts spirits immediately when its long-lasting scent fills the whole room. Rustan’s, Ayala Center Cebu Crystals Often found inside round glasses, crystals don’t serve as decoration but are also believed to ward off presence of negative energy. It has a lot of healing attributes to both mental and spiritual, it is highly recommended to place it on areas in the household to maintain healthy flow of energy. Department Store, SM City Cebu Himalayan Pink Sea Salt Considered to be the cleanest salt available in this planet, the pink salt has all kinds of nutritional and therapeutic properties. These pink salt comes from salt mine 5,000 deep below the Himalayan Mountain Range, so as pure as it is, it is a mineral substance of great importance to human and animal health. PESO Store, ebloc2, Cebu I.T. Park and Streetscape

Windy Gancayco is a Shamanic Reiki Master-Teacher whose practice of space clearing started with her study of Reiki in Thailand in 2015. She holds space at the Gassho Center for Healing Arts in Mabolo.

Sage Sage helps bad vibes be gone as it energetically clear any space. One good way to clear and clean out bad energy is by burning sage, or in some cases, spraying it. iherb.com, Lazada Philippines

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TRENDS

The Book Keeper

Sharing stories of history and heritage, Louella Alix shares how her admiration for books has turned her into a passionate chronicler. by Carlo Rivera photography Gia Mayola

uthor Louella EslaoAlix pours English tea for us from her Royal Albert tea set, one accented with lustrous gold banding and pink and yellow country roses. As a young writer, I wonder if following in her footsteps began in this tea ceremony. “I always have a corner where I can have my tea,” she shares. White curtains covering a glass window created a soft filter for the harsh noon light, while bird cages created a shadow play on the different surfaces. We are in Louella’s Presents and Such Tearoom and Cafe, the perfect scene to take Louella’s photo. Of course, the star of the show remains her books—“Can I have all your books displayed

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here?” I asked, pointing to one table adorned with fairy lights and other decorative elements. “Sure!” she quickly responded, immediately bringing out the books she’d published. There were six (for now), all of them in line with what she’s most fond of— heritage and food. When I call her a book keeper, she agrees. “That’s right, I have always been a book keeper. I have always loved books, and I was exposed to it by my parents. One of my earliest memories is of them buying me a book.” As a kid, she had been an ardent collector of moments, and always had the desire to put things in writing. she would write things for herself—almost like having a conversation of herself by scribbling

thoughts down in her diary. Even when she married Rodolfo Alix, had two sons and four grandsons, she still took the time to scribble snippets of her life in a notebook. That doesn’t mean, though, that she always thought writing was her calling. Louella—or Loy, as her friends fondly call her—had started writing professionally at the age of 59, when Jing Ramos (Zee’s editor emeritus) invited her to write for The Freeman. “What will I write for them?” she remembers asking, but she eventually churned out her first article, and the rest is history. Transitioning from writing personal narratives to authoring book turned out to come naturally to her. Friend Jobers Bersales, with the University of San Carlos Press,

came up with a nice idea of raising funds by publishing a book. This brought on her first title Balaanong Bahandi (loosely translated as Holy Treasures), a chronicle of the Archdiocese’s architectural heritage. It showcased of the Cebu churches, from the earliest mission to contemporary parishes, giving readers a look into the nearly 500 years of Christianity on the island. Among the books she had written since then are Bantayan, on the history of the small island north of Cebu; and Via Veritates, a biography of late Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, where she was one of three writers. Another in her bibliography is Mandaue, where she researched and wrote on the bustling city’s history, culture and food. Right after, she followed it up with writing the jubilee book of St. Therese’s Parish— while finishing up this project, she had already been working on her passion project. Hikay, the Culinary Heritage of Cebu had been something she wanted to work on while doing photoshoots and research for the Mandaue book. It takes readers on a culinary trip around Cebu—from the seaside towns to mountain hamlets, from the modern cities to nearby barangays, it delves into the history and lesser known facts about Cebuano cuisine. So it seems she’s not just a book keeper. She is a chronicler, filling up the books herself. Her space seems to emanate her, filled with the stories she’s told and is yet to tell—there is a mini library near her dining table, and a pile of books on her window pane, all somehow very connected to her personality. Feeling like I had asked too many questions already, I was feeling shy about asking a cliched but necessary question to a storyteller: “If there was a book about your life, what would it be about? And what would be its title?”

After thinking quietly and deeply, she replies, “The title would be Food and Love. I love to eat, and I love to talk about it. And love, it covers everything—my love for food, my love for family, for life. My epitaph should be: I live, I laugh, I love.” It turns out, I had more in common with Louella than just being a writer (me, of course, wishing I could one day have the same kind of portfolio as she does)—we’re both old souls, and Anglophiles. I am hoping to have tea with her again soon, where we can discuss our shared adoration for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who we believe—like Louella—is a book keeper, as well. Z

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ADVERTORIAL

All is Well Strengthening Cebu’s place in the international landscape of medical tourism, Maayo Medical and Maayo Hotel bring together southern hospitality and worldclass healthcare facilities. by Carlo Rivera photography Gia Mayola

ith a growing number of international airlines flying into the city, Cebu sees its fair share of tourists at any day of the year. There are many reasons why people from all over the world come to our city—to bask in our tropical weather and enjoy the natural, scenic attractions; or to look for investments that can benefit from Cebu’s burgeoning economy. These days, though, another brand of tourists have been rising in number. The past few years have seen medical tourism on the rise in Cebu, with people of different nationalities coming to Cebu for the reasonably priced procedures, competent doctors, and updated facilities. In this current climate comes Maayo Medical and Maayo Hotel, an effort from the Primary Group of Builders to bring together hospitality and world-class medical services. By bringing these two together, Maayo aims to be a onestop shop for addressing any and all medical tourists needs—a worldclass outpatient facility with a roster of good doctors, and the luxurious amenities of the hotel to make the stay even more relaxing and convenient. But Maayo isn’t just looking completely outward. The group understands that Cebu has seen a shift in lifestyle over the past few years, with many locals advocating better health and wellnesses

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practices in their everyday life. The modern facilities and state-of-the-art information systems will hopefully raise the standard of the already vastly improved medical care facilities in Cebu. The philosophy behind Maayo can be found in its name—the Visayan word can be used to mean good or well, or, as a verb, to feel better—perfectly encapsulating the group’s thrust towards holistic wellness and healthcare. MAAYO MEDICAL With its modern interiors and furnishings, Maayo Medical offers an experience that’s different from what you’d expect from the hospital. A fully integrated Health Information System is in place for a more convenient way to access records, coordinate with the various departments for different tests, and settle any medical bills. The experience begins with patients registering at the lobby, where they will be given a

card to be used for all the facilities. Whatever laboratory tests or procedures the doctors recommend, each department will be able to see exactly where you’ve been, or where you have to go. In striving to provide a truly world-class medical experience, Maayo Medical has invested in the latest technologies and equipment for use throughout the center. There is also a roster of 60 of city’s top physicians, who went through a rigorous selection process that examined their experience, reputation and competence. There’s even an aquatic pool for physical therapy or rehab use, and a wellness clinic that includes nutrition services. MAAYO HOTEL Complementing these offerings is the Maayo Hotel. Not exclusive to patients from the medical side of

the establishment, the latest addition to the local hospitality landscape is conveniently located near the Cebu-Mactan bridge, and in one of Mandaue’s rising industrial districts— making it a great jump-off point to experience what Cebu has to offer. Maayo Hotel offers a closeto-home experience, with cozy but luxurious accommodations, restaurants that feature local and international cuisine, a rooftop infinity pool with a sweeping view of its surroundings, and a rooftop pocket garden with a jogging trail. Of course, it does share the same philosophy of wellness of its next-door neighbor. Maayo Hotel is the first that allows and encourages guests to work out and be active in their own space—the hotel offers “wellness kits” that include a yoga mat, fitness ball, medicine ball, and dumbbells. There is also a wellness gym for those who prefer to use exercise equipment. Tourism is one of Cebu’s strong industries, and medical tourism is something that can truly

change the game. Maayo Medical and Maayo Hotel aims to be important players in this field, bringing together the advocacy of good health and wellness, and the unmistakable brand of Cebuano hospitality. Z D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

ADVERTORIAL

Holiday Bliss For the Yuletide season, Shangri-La's Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu celebrates with stellar five-star festivities.

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elebrate the holidays at Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu as it soars through mesmerizing galaxies and glimmering cheer with ‘Yuletide Bliss’, a generous bundle of five-star dining experiences and exhilarating recreational fun. Inspired by the dreamy journey through starry skies, the seaside resort transforms into a whimsical oasis adorned with blue and gold, and accentuated with miniature hot-air balloon décor. Memorable moments await all guests, who are encouraged to share their

holiday stories online with the tag #AlwaysMerryHere. The holidays call for a feast and guests have a variety of options at the resort restaurants. Dine at the Tides’ Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet at PHP2,650++ per person and their Christmas Day Dinner Buffet at PHP2,450++ per person. It includes free-flowing red, white and sparkling wine, plus a meaningful serenade by a Christmas Choir. Italian restaurant Acqua and seafood al fresco Cowrie Cove will both have Christmas Eve Set Dinners available at PHP2,250++ per person and PHP2,650++ per person, respectively. Both are 4-course set menus inclusive of a celebratory glass of Prosecco. For a breezy seaside nightcap, Waves Bar intensifies the enjoyment with Flair Tending Shows by its very own bar talents on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at 8:00 p.m. and 9 p.m. Christmas Day in a tropical wonderland is all about fun under the sun. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus, who will be coming at 11 a.m. on Christmas Day on a thrilling parasail ride to the beachfront. He will then be visiting the Adventure Zone gardens and Tides to greet guests. D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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As the resort welcomes 2018, tantalizing celebrations graciously abound. Tides will have a New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet at PHP2,650++ person and a New Year’s Day Sparkling Dinner Buffet at PHP2,550++ per person. Both are inclusive of free-flowing wine and marvelous performances by a Flash Mob and Strolling Band. Acqua’s New Year’s Eve Set Dinner is at PHP2,450++ per person while Cowrie Cove’s New Year’s Eve Set Dinner is at PHP2,950++ per person. Both are 4-course set menus inclusive of a celebratory glass of Prosecco. Waves Bar will also have exclusive offers for the evening plus stunning sounds by a DJ throughout the night. As the midnight of the New Year draws nearer, guests may dazzle the night away in lustrous glamour and astral wonder at the Under the Stars Countdown Party. It starts at 11 p.m. at The Marquee with door charge at PHP2,500 net per person. A spectacular fireworks display follows at the beachfront. Guests seeking for a refreshing start for 2018 will delight in a New Year’s Day Yoga that will be at 7 a.m. on January 1 at the beachfront. For a fit and fabulous afternoon, guests may also join the New Year’s Day Aqua Aerobics at 4:30 p.m. at the Main Pool. For an enchanting retreat amidst the glitz, CHI, The Spa will offer a holiday wellness package.

Guests may indulge in a 90-minute soothing back, neck and shoulder massage followed by a refreshing facial at a special rate of PHP4,800 net per person. It is available from December 1 to 31. The yuletide holidays are children’s favorite season and indoor playground Adventure Zone has plenty of arts and crafts activities throughout the month, including Hand Wreath-making, Christmas Tree Muffin Liner, Santa’s Beard Décor and Reindeer Paper Bag. The young ones may also enjoy well-loved f licks on an outdoor big screen in Movie Under the Stars on Christmas Day, 8 p.m. at the Treasure Island Garden. As guests share their seaside holiday experiences online, they are invited to join 12 Days of Christmas, the resort’s Instagram contest in which fun presents are given to the winning guest who accomplishes the day’s dare on selected dates starting December 1 to 25. With a dash of the season’s warmth and a galaxy of glistening experiences, it is indeed a blissful celebration at Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu. Z

For inquiries or reservations, guests may call (63 32) 231 0288 or send an email to fbreservations.mac@shangrila.com. For online updates, guests may also like and subscribe to Facebook. com/ShangriLaMactan and follow @ ShangriLaMactan and #AlwaysMerryHere on Twitter and Instagram.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Adventure Zone; Restaurants Cowrie Cove, Acqua and Tides.

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holiday gift guide If you're still not sure what to get the special people on your Christmas list, Zee Lifestyle has got you covered. From homegrown names to internationally celebrated brands, we've got a selection of products that would make luxe stocking stuffers.

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st atement making Give the glamorous people in your life bold accessories that will help them stand out in any room. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Amethyst ring; morganite and diamond in rose gold earrings; oval quartz and diamond in 24k plated gold earringsfrom JARRA. Frida earrings from SEPA. Tassel earrings from STROZZI.

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the fine det ails

Handcrafted watches and accessories are minimalist ways to show love for the finer things in life. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Men's watch from PHILIP STEIN. Wrap-around bracelet from SWAROVSKI. Ladies' watch from TW STEEL. Peach pink topaz in rose gold ring; Pink diamond in yellow and white gold ring; and raspberry garnet in 14k yellow gold ring from JARRA.

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HOLIDAY BEAUTY PICKS

It’s that time of the year again. The holidays can be an excuse for us to do things with more vigor, and why shouldn’t we? It’s the season of giving and we’re definitely all for giving it all with these beauty picks.

Elflike Glow The holidays can be a stressful season when you’re scrunching your face a lot, but La Prairie’s Skin Caviar Absolute Filler is designed to target the loss of the skin’s youthful appearance. It plumps the skin and helps reshape and redefine the contours of the face. (Php27,000)

Holiday Glam Keep up with the festive holiday spirit with Chanel’s Holiday Numéros Rouges Collection. From the eyes to the nails, Chanel gives you that effortlessly glam look that’s perfect for parties or get-togethers. Their red lipsticks form the heart of the collection, with two classic Rouge Allure shades (Php1,950) and two matte Rouge Allure Velvet shades (Php1,950). The Trait de Caractére eyeshadow palette (Php3,850) has five eye shadows that play a range of characters from the shy nude and platinum ivory to the emboldened deep aubergine and intense emerald green. Complement the look with the Stylo Yeux waterproof eyeliner in deep green (Php1,450) or the Le Volume de Chanel mascara in a flattering Burgundy hue (Php2,150). Finish off the look with a popping nail color, available in an intense black, emerald green or a flashy coral (Php1,450).

Yule See Stars Allow yourself to relax in the midst of this busy season with Diptyque’s scented candles. The soothing allure of their fragrances can whisk you off into a serene state of mind. The Les Constellations collection is a collaboration with Philippe Baudelocque, creating a complex universe that brings us back to our childhood. (Php3,950)

Santa’s Satin Complement your holiday look with the perfect scent that captivates the people around you. The OUD satin mood Extrait de parfum exudes an abundance of roses from Turkey and Tunisia that rounds out the dark, animalistic tones of oud wood before enveloping the violet blossoms in a soft caress. This perfume will leave an unforgettable, captivating sillage in its wake. (Php18,500)

Available in Rustan's Shangri-La.

All products available at Rustans Department Store, Ayala Center Cebu D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

a man's world

The man in your life deserves a touch of luxe, even in a lifestyle that's rugged and on-the-go. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT Leather briefcase from OLEG CASSINI. Driving jacket from RICARDO PRETO. Printed button-down shirt from OLEG CASSINI Watch with case from VICTORINOX.

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t assel t own The ultra-feminine will appreciate these playful but chic accessories.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Ants in Your Pants bag from FEBRUARY LIFESTYLE. Amatheia earrings from SEPA ACCESSORIES. A collection of tassel earrings from STROZZI. Beaded necklace from CAROLE. Penelope tote bag from LONGCHAMP. Pearl necklace from MAJORICA.

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bare essentials A pared down beauty kit of great skincare products (and tools for the perfect brows) is something any beauty maven will appreciate.

FROM LEFT Defined Refined Brows set from BENEFIT COSMETICS. The Soft Fluid Long-Wear Foundation, and The Revitalizing Hydrating Serum from LA MER. Lime Basil and Mandarin Scented Candle from JO MALONE.

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get pretty

Tried-and-tested products in pretty packaging are the perfect addition to any vanity. FROM LEFT PunchPop! Liquid Lip Color in Watermelon and Bubblegum, Gogo Tint, and California Love Gift Set (with Gimme Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel, Roller Lash Curling and Lifting Mascara, and Galifornia Blush) from BENEFIT COSMETICS. Ultra Facial Cream, and Midnight Recovery Concentrate from KIEHLS.

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HOLIDAY GIF T GUIDE

The Hit List We’re making a list and checking it twice! Just in time for the holiday season, the Zee Lifestyle team shares what’s on top of their wish list this year.

EVA GULLAS

SHARI QUIMBO

CARLO RIVERA

Orient Express If you’re looking for a trip to the Orient, the Aman Summer Palace in Beijing should be first on your itinerary. Simple and elegant, the Aman Summer Palace is a trip through time, with a traditional courtyard style reminiscent of the aesthetics from the glory days of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Hair Today Few feelings are as enjoyable as freshly colored hair—what’s not as fun is having to get touchups. Thankfully, Piandre introduced lived in color this year, a technique that brings different tones to your hair color for a natural sun-kissed look. There’s the option for darker roots that gradually fade at the ends (a modern, softer ombre), or lighter shades to frame the face.

Beach Blitz It’s always been on the wish list to spend Christmas Eve by the beach, and Crimson Mactan’s villa is just the right place to do it. The bed is perfect for sleeping in, and the view is picture-perfect.

Publisher

There are 51 rooms and suites, all featuring period furniture like intricately carves screens, bamboo blinds and clay tiles. The dining experience is extraordinary, from the centuries-old tea ceremony to the selection of classics like the Szechuan Chicken and Peking Duck. 1 Gongmenqian Street, Summer Palace, Beijing, PRC 100091 amansummerpalace@aman.com Slim Picks Although giving is truly what makes the season bright, the holidays can also be a great time to love yourself. Indulge in the advanced Radio Frequency (RF) Treatment, a non-surgical procedure for cellulite reduction, collagen stimulation and tightening the skin. The machine works using thermal waves to target fat cells, with the Exilis Elite dual energy delivery that causes the cells to shrink by speeding up metabolic activity. The treatment is available at Dr. Hopee Solano’s clinic, where she offers a wide range of services. We’ve never been disappointed with an experience with Dr. Hopee, who addresses any questions and concerns you might have before the procedure, and her staff. Rm. 316, Cebu Doctors Medical Arts Building 2, (032) 53 8358 A Touch of Hope

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managing editor

Oakridge Business Park, AS Fortuna Street, Banilad, Mandaue City (032) 412 1824 Getaway Gifts It’s no surprise that Hong Kong remains one of Cebu’s favorite destinations for quick weekend trips—the city offers so many experiences, from food and culture, to shopping and recreation. Of course, staying at the Gateway Hotel will give your holiday a bit of an edge. Part of the Marco Polo Hotels group and located centrally in Harbour City in bustling Tsim Sha Tsui, Gateway Hotel features a modern and artsy design that creates a boutique hotel feel with a five-star twist. There’s also a complimentary mini-bar, and a Handy Phone with unlimited data connectivity. No. 13 Canton Road, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong gateway@marcopolohotels.com FEELING CHUBBY As much as I love the chance to do an all-out glam beauty look, most days I’m all about fuss-free makeup. Clinique’s Chubby Stick collection is perfect for hectic weekdays—with a variety of color shades for every possible facial feature (eyes, lips, cheeks, even stick for contouring and highlighting) in tube packaging that’s easy to use and bring along. Plus they’re packed with natural moisturizing ingredients, so they’re doing double duty.Rustan’s Department Store and SM Seaside City Cebu

features editor

For when you do feel like going outside, the plunge pool and infinity pool will make it feel like summer in December, while Crimzone will keep the little ones happy throughout the day. And of course, there’s the amazing selection of tapas from Chef Chele Gonzales at Enye—this could be the best noche buena ever! Seascapes Resort Town, Soong, LapuLapu City crimsonhotel.com/mactan If the Shoe Fits The recent trunk show of Spectre Manila in Cebu introduced me to the Loake Shoemakers, the British shoemaker with a Royal Warrant of Appointment by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. The impressive lineage stands out really stands out, but this pair does that even on its own. With its polished leather and intricate details, it’s the perfect footwear for special occasions. 916 Luna Mencias, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila @spectremnl Best Laid Plans Every year, Tita Witty releases her unconventional and hilarious planner. With relatable quotes (like hugot lines from One More Chance) and weight-loss pointers, it’s the perfect companion for 2018. www.wittywillsavetheworld.com

Ama

ijing e B n i e c Pala r e m m u nS

Gateway Hotel in Hong Kong

Hair make-over at Piandre

RF Treatment at Dr. Hopee Solano

ion ct le ol c k ic t S y b b u h C s eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cliniqu

Loake shoes

Christmas at Crimson

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HOLIDAY GIF T GUIDE

African Safari Dior T-shirt

Dedon Island Resort

Gucci Boots Melo Esguerra editor-at-large

A romantic holiday with the man I love at Dedon Island Resort.

JanET Alfafara copyeditor

A romantic holiday with the man I love at Dedon Island Resort.

Ehds Javier

Polaroid ZIP Instant Photoprinter

artistic director

Though the world is becoming digital, some of us still prefer analogue. The super portable Polaroid ZIP Instant Photoprinter would be the perfect gadget to up my game in setting up an awe-inspiring polaroid bunting display without the actual Instant Camera—just my smartphone.

Romero Vergara makeup artist

A limited supply of Dior shirts! I am a a big fan because they’re comfortable, and it will always look good on you.

Gia Mayola

Moleskine Sketch Book

editorial assistant

Anyone who knows me, knows about my extensive love for boots. This year, Gucci came out with the most beautiful pair that I’ve ever seen. This pair is made of Bordeaux leather and features the house’s stripes with dragon embroidery. A great statement piece, this boot’s pointed toe can instantly make you look sleek and sophisticated.

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KYLA ESTOYA writer

My holiday wishlist is simple: a Moleskine Watercolor Sketchbook. I've been visiting Lazada.ph almost everyday staring at it and I never had the guts to buy it. I really think Santa should give it to me as a present. If he can't, I'll stare at the website again.

TJ DELIMA

Sony A7s II

graphic artist

After my six year old Canon camera died recently I've decided that my holiday wish list is the new Sony a7s II camera. It's small, easy to carry and it can shoot 4k videos. Very useful since I also shoot videos for work.

dinner on display To kick off the holiday season, Zee Lifestyle brought together close friends for a dinner party unlike any otherâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; a five-course meal in the middle of a department store.

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FE ATU RE

hat is the ultimate luxury? We at Zee Lifestyle have been trying to answer that question for as long as this writer has been on the staff—and probably for far longer. A handcrafted designer bag, sure. Having a private island all to yourself, of course. The chance to sleep in on a Monday, definitely. A lot of people seem to agree that luxury often comes from a sense of exclusivity—whether it’s an experience or a product, what makes something a luxury is knowing that not everyone has a chance to have the same thing. This became the inspiration for the dinner we hosted to kick off the holidays. After planning and discussions, we decided to host a sitdown dinner in the middle of Rustan’s Department Store. After all, does anything feel as exclusive as enjoying a five-course meal on an intricately decorated table, in the middle of a bustling department store while other customers are rushing through their holiday shopping?

The shop f loors of Rustan’s Department Store became host to a unique dinner experience that began with cocktails on the first f loor. Amidst glittering Christmas decorations, guests enjoyed appetizers while sampling the selection of drinks—specialty ginger ale, a blueberry vodka cocktail and bottles of Moët & Chandon. in the beginning of the refreshments and light chatter, the group was also treated to pampering sessions from the brands of Rustan’s beauty Source. After hors d’oeuvres, guests were escorted to their respective tables. Our dinner hosts Regal Oliva and Divine Maitland-Smith had invited a select group of friends, and would act as facilitators to the discussions that would be happening that evening. Basil Cabaral of Rustan’s visual merchandising department had come up with luxurious and modern holiday table settings for the event. Divine’s table on the second f loor was decorated with avian accents, golden details and pops of green. The highlight of

the table were golden spiked star sculptures, which many guests started to re-imagine as statement accessories. Upstairs for Regal’s table is a more traditional take, with Christmas trees featuring in the charger plates, and miniature versions as sparkling centerpieces. The conversation was quick-witted and interesting, with topics that range from addressing the traffic problems in Cebu at Regal’s table (Margot Osmeña says the answer is discipline—to not kill the drivers next to you, another jokingly added) to the best thing about the holidays in Cebu at Divine’s (Butch Carungay and Jon Medalla got into a light argument about how happy we really are during Christmas). As the night went on and glasses kept getting refilled, we realize that this was probably one of the best things about the holidays: having a group of people come together to enjoy good food and wine, and engage in inspired conversation—and as Zee Lifestyle would have it, take that wonderful moment, and put it on display.

the food

Chef Raki Urbina whipped up an amazing menu especially for the evening. After the delicious selection of canapes, dinner officially began with a Lobster Cappuccino—a rich and creamy broth even more hearty with chunks of the delicious shellfish. The salad course was the Enchanted Garden, a selection of vegetables beautifully arranged on a plate. The third course was a palate cleanser—the Calamansi Sorbet, served inside a lime skin and on a bed of salt. The true highlight of the meal was the Angus Beef Short Rib, cooked tender and in a flavorful mushroom sauce. Capping off the evening was a Mango Tart with ice cream and fruits.

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the guests

To put together a guest list, we had invited inf luencer and budding chef Divine Maitland-Smith, and Mandaue City Treasurer Regal Oliva to bring together their closest friends for the dinner. Tony Alfonso At Regal’s table were a diverse mix of personalities from different industries—Cebu City Councilor Margot Osmeña; founder and CEO of Contempo Property Holdings Beverly Dayanan; plastic surgeon Fremont Base; interior designer Paolo del Rosario; fashion designers Cary Santiago, Oj Hofer, Arcy Gayatin and Philip Rodriguez; former Cebu City tourism commissioner and patron of the arts Petite Garcia; Zee Lifestyle’s first cover girl Maya Franco; fashion and accessories designer Miranda Konstantinidou; lawyer Georgia Herrera-Klepp; and lawyer Elaine Bathan. Rounding up the group were Zee Lifestyle publisher Eva Gullas, and columnist Mayenne Carmona. Divine’s table was equally as spirited—radio DJ and model Megan Divine Maitland-Smith Deen Campbell; Jon Medalla of ArkinamixMedallaaj Architects; marketing director Stephanie Sharpe and her friends from Canada, Angele Clarke, Cindy Wu and Laura Lea Hlavach; hospitality professionals Pazu and Meg Eteve; Jessica Barbier of clothing company Canada Goose; musician Tony Alfonso; designer and entrepreneur Butch Carungay; French accessories designers Kifu Agousti and Patrick Coard; and Basil Cabaral of Rustan’s visual merchandising. Zee Lifestyle managing editor Shari Quimbo rounded Georgia Herrera-Klepp up the table.

Patrick Coard and Kifu Agousti

Jon Medalla

Megan Campbell

Miranda Konstantinidou and Butch Carungay

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Pazu and Meg Eteve

Margot Osmeña

whats' your most memorable Zee st ory or event ?

"My most memorable time with Zee is when they featured Â my 25 years in Fashion. It was a big honor that they devoted the cover and Fashion editorial for celebrating our Silver anniversary gala show." -PHILIP RODRIGUEZ Elaine Bathan

Fremont Base and Paolo del Rosario

Oj Hofer

"The Crystal Ball was the most memorable for me because our group, the Fashion Council of Cebu, was very much involved. Not only did we present a fashion show, but more importantly, the event gave us the opportunity to raise funds for our scholarship program." -ARCY GAYATIN "The Emerald Ball, because I got to meet all the young up and coming professionals." -STEPHANIE SHARPE "Most memorable was the story they made about the ten up and coming youth of Cebu a few years back." -JESSICA BARBIER

Philip Rodriguez

Arcy Gayatin

Regal Oliva

"It's difficult to choose, all Zee Lifestyle events I've had the opportunity to be a part of is always a memorable experience. One of my fondest memories with Zee is during the photoshoot for the April's youth edition. It was the first time I was able to represent myself and showcase my passions and aspirations in a magazine." -MEGAN CAMPBELL "Of the many events and stories featured in Zee magazine, I cannot say that one is more memorable than the rest because all of the features are unique and it would be unfair to say one is better than the other." -JON MEDALLA

Raki Urbina, Mayenne Carmona, Eva Gullas, Cary Santiago and Mawi de Ocampo

"My favourite event was the Zee Emerald Ball, we ate delicious food and had lovely wine to pair with it. It was a beautiful night. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait for the next one!" -DIVINE MAITLAND-SMITH

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the discussion

As expected with a group as opinionated as this, the conversation flowed as easily as the wine—the discussion flowed so naturally that we were surprised to look around and see them closing up Rustan’s even before we could finish our main course. Of course, the chatter and laughter continued, getting even more candid as we had the department store all to ourselves. From the collective hopes and frustrations for Cebu, to personal definitions of luxury, here are some snippets from the night’s dialogue—just snippets, because some subjects might be a bit too sensitive to publish. Now, don’t you just wish you were on this list? 70

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Divine’s Table Divine: So let’s have a little “get real” talk right now, something everyone can relate to. Okay, so I have some questions about Cebu. I’ll start with, what do you like about Christmas in Cebu? Stephanie: All my friends are back in Cebu for Christmas. Everyone abroad wants to spend Christmas with their family, so I see all of my friends. Jon: I totally agree. That’s a good answer. Kifu: People love to drink during the holidays. Butch: We drink regardless. [laughs] Divine: So alcohol and food? Butch: No, friendship and connection and family. Jon: During the rest of the year we have a societal stigma, we have to act a certain way. In Christmas, things change. There’s a change of atmosphere, where everyone can be more giving. Christmas is the time

to be jolly. I just really like the vibe of Christmas. Butch: It’s too commercialized. Divine: It’s like Valentine’s Day. Butch: But I agree with Stephanie—it’s the time when people actually come and congregate. It’s not a matter of, “oh we can drink more,” but we can drink more because our friends are here. It’s a different nuance. Patrick: In the public, it might be commercialized, but in private— Butch: Do we care about that? Patrick: Exactly. So in the private atmosphere, it’s still nice. Megan: I love the fact that, here, they celebrate Christmas in September. Jessica: Yeah, when you go to a shopping mall and they play Christmas songs before Halloween. Divine: Yeah, no one cares about Halloween here. Megan: I like Christmas because there’s an atmosphere that comes

"On Christmas, things change. There's a change of atmosphere, where everyone can be more giving. Christmas is the time to be jolly." -Jon Medalla with it. The closer the day comes, the closer everyone is getting. It gets more intimate. Kifu: I think actually Christmas can sometimes bring people apart. — Divine: Where do you think Cebu is gonna go in the next five to ten years? Jessica: Okay, I gotta say that the only thing I care about Cebu in the next five years is that it’s gonna turn into the next Manila.

Jon: I don’t think so. Jessica: It’s not that I think so, it’s what I’m afraid of. — Divine: Let’s talk about traffic. It’s really bad. Jessica: Oh, I found old negatives from the 1980s. Stephanie: I saw that. Okay, she took negatives, took photos of the negatives and she made them look digitalized. Her dad has pictures of Cebu from 1980. If you saw what the bridge looked like 30 years ago, when there was just the old bridge. Jessica: There was no buildings on the side. No cars. Stephanie: That was the first bridge, and that was the only bridge back then. And we got the new bridge. [laughs] Jon: And now we have the third bridge. It’s the newest bridge. Jessica: But my point is, you saw how it looked like before, and you see how it is now, maybe it should be like food for thought on how we’re going to construct the third bridge. Maybe expand the roads. The point is you should be able to learn from your mistakes. People should have long-term objectives. Divine: That’s because the money isn’t going where it’s supposed to go. There have been so many plans to develop the roads, but where does that go? Nowhere. Nothing happens. D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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Regal’s Table Eva: Part of our discussion tonight is about Cebu, which will be moderated by Regal. We’re not just here for your gorgeous looks, but for your thoughts too. Petite: Can I just send my thoughts via email to Regal? [laughs] Regal: We’ll be talking about Cebu, and about you also. Eva: Before anything else, let’s have a toast. I would like to thank everybody for being here. You know, they always say the biggest challenge of a lifestyle magazine is portraying the city in its most glorious look. This, for me, is Cebu lifestyle and I hope it continues. Thank you so much for being here. [Toast] — Eva: What’s sayang (too bad) is that in Cebu’s old neighborhoods, we’re losing the flavor. All the old

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"Why can't we say we want to be in our beds, watching TV. Reading a good book, that for me is a luxury." -Georgia Herrera Klepp houses are turned into hotels and condominiums. Regal: That’s one thing we miss in Cebu. Margot: But there’s a fine line between private property ownership, and what you can do with what you own. How can you legislate? Eva: There has to be a support system. If you have a house that’s worth preserving—like remember Cafe Adriatico? That’s gone. The city should come up with funds. Well, it doesn’t have to be the city—we need

a group of civic-minded people. Cary: You have to sell it. If you’re old rich, you’ll just become old without the rich. You have to sell it. And you don’t even own it alone—you own it with your siblings and cousins. What’s worth preserving is really the house, not the lot. But unless the government will say they’ll fund you to preserve it, it’s not enough. — Regal: Because we’re having a very luxurious dinner tonight, let’s talk about luxury. Let’s go to Beverly—what’s the most luxurious thing that you’ve ever done in your entire life? Beverly: I’m not really the luxurious type, but I think I’m more into watches. Regal: How about you, Tita Petite? Petite: Every day is luxurious for me. [laughs] I can’t think. There’s just too many. Regal: How about Maia?

Maia: An experience. When I was in London and I stayed in Covent Garden for eight days. It was a very nice hotel, and there was the theater, the restaurants, the shopping. Everything. Georgia: I think it’s more on the indulgences. Regal: So it’s travel for you? What about you, Arcy? Arcy: Oh a lot, but mostly owning my own time. Petite: Oh that is a luxury! I agree with Arcy. Georgia: The luxury to say no. Petite: Yeah, that’s a luxury. Margot: Privacy. It’s something that you cannot buy. Regal: So there’s a consensus in this table that the most luxurious thing is time. So thank you for giving us your time tonight. Eva: You know what I hate? When you don’t appear at a social gathering and the next day, people ask you, “why weren’t you there?” And then you have to lie. Georgia: Why can’t we say we want to be in our beds, watching TV? Reading a good book, that for me is a luxury. Z

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ADVERTORIAL

on to a new decade For more than a decade now, Cebu Parklane international Hotel consistently improves itself for what better way to become the only hotel that stands for Cebu.

The Victoria Hall

nitially designed to be furniture showroom, Cebu Parklane International Hotel have become a piece of architectural edifice that proudly stands in the busy metropolis for 11 years now. Located along the busy streets of Archbishop Reyes and Escario, Parklane sits in a contemporary building that is only a five-minute walk to and from the bustling Cebu Business Park and less than an hour drive from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. What is supposedly just an empty showroom turned out to be a local city hotel. For more than a decade, Cebu Parklane International Hotel has consistently and continously withstood the challenges of the hospitality industry despite the emerging neophyte competitors.

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As it celebrates another milestone last July, what better way to start a new era but with a promise of new beginnings. New signature attires, the renovation of its grand ballroom Victoria Hall, as well as the continuous revamping of the Hotel rooms from 5th to 16th floors—are among the changes set for the coming years. First, Cebu Parklane introduces new uniform for its Front Office Staff. In line with its new changes, the uniforms aim to modernize looks of its front-liners but with local twist, all are inspired from a “Filipino Terno” with a touch a current design. As the hotel continues to deliver vibrant atmosphere for leisure and productivity, the Hotel also upgrades its biggest ballroom that could cater up to 700 guests in theater set-up. The newly renovated Victoria Hall features four drop-do LED screens, special mood lighting, state of the art sound system and a fresher, lightertoned interior design. Along its major changes are its improved banquet packages, flexibly crafted to cater to its clients’ needs.

With earth tone colors and accent lighting along with its lavish modern features, the revamped rooms are designed to help create a more wonderful, convenient, and relaxing stay. Guests can also get a glimpse of the rich Cebuano culture with the murals and photos inside each room depicting the history, culture, food, and festivals of Cebu. Complete your Cebuano experience by trying authentic Cebuano specialty dishes from north to south of Cebu and mouthwatering dishes at Kan-anan Restaurant at the 4th level of the hotel. To enhance guests’s stay, Cebu Parklane has recreational facilities such as the Aquamarine Fitness Gym, outdoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and pool for kids. Other amenities include inhouse laundry and spa services. With its practical location, famous Cebuano tourist spots and other major shopping malls around Metro Cebu is accessible by any public transportation vehicle, giving guests ease and convenience touring around Cebu. The hotel’s ground floor houses the concierge, main reception area, lobby, a cozy cafe called Bean Date which features a wide range of desserts, pastries and cafferine-booster drinks plus their signature all day buffet at Manuel’s restaurant which also features various international and continental dishes, served to satisfy one’s discerning palette. Z For inquiries and reservations, please contact (032) 234-7000 or visit www. parklanehotel.com.ph.

Closet Cases Zee Lifestyle sits down with Jaja Chiongbian-Rama, Nelly Egle and Maria Gigante, all beautiful, charismatic and driven women, and see how their lifestyles translate into their closets.

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JAJA RAMA

With work days that can go from serious business meetings, to glamorous parties in the city’s latest hotspots, this career superwoman stays polished with a wardrobe as versatile as she is.

photography Dan Douglas Ong hair and makeup Eunice Enrera

aja Chiongbian-Rama is a hard woman to pin down. It’s not really surprising, of course—balancing her time between running her events and PR company Bigseed, playing a role in the family shipping business George and Peter Lines, and being the doting mother of two beautiful boys (with another baby on the way) must not be easy. Somehow, though, Jaja makes it look like it is. Perhaps that can be attributed to her personal style. Whether it’s at an event or in the middle of a tightly scheduled work day, Jaja looks poised and polished. “I can’t really categorize it into one particular style. I’d say it’d be a little

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bit of everything,” she says when describing her personal style. She adds, “I like mixing and matching.” Her style philosophy, she shares, tends to be dictated by which facet of her life requires her attention for the day. “My style is pretty much eclectic,” she continues. “It depends on the occasion, it depends on my mood, and what I like to wear for the day.” On this particular afternoon, she’d set aside some time for us for the photo shoot, although in between hair and makeup, she is fielding phone calls and emails. “There’s so much to do because I’m leaving for Osaka tomorrow,” she explains. “I still have to buy Manu’s winter clothes after this shoot, and then I have to come

home and pack,” she admits with a laugh, referring to her eldest son. For the photo shoot, it’s more classic silhouettes. “I would wear this to an event,” she says of the nudecolored lace dress that showed off her growing baby bump nicely. “Events, especially in Cebu, are an opportunity to dress up, so as much as possible I like dressing up for those.” Of course, it’s not all about the shift dresses and ladylike cuts— in between takes, she shows me her latest fashion finds from Zara, which include a pair of pointed slingbacks in a floral print, and deep green pajama pants with a flattering side stripe. “And look, there’s a slit towards the bottom so you can show off your shoes,” she points out to me excitedly. When the day is devoted to mommy duties, though, Jaja is more pragmatic. “Definitely sneakers,” she says. “Comfort above all else, but you can also be comfortably stylish. I like wearing sneakers with a casual dress or jeans.” As we wrap up the shoot, we ask her if she has any fashion advice.

“Wear something you’re comfortable with, but something that also reflects your personality,” she shares. “Don’t let what you’re wearing wear you—let your personality shine through. And experiment, because life is short.” She shrugs and laughs, “Just have fun dressing up.” Z

An outfit that will always make you feel stylish? Whatever makes me feel good, and look polished and put together really. This can range from pairing sneakers (or heels) with a dress, to my daily “uniform” of wide-legged or slim cropped pants and a top, which I’ll sometimes drape with a blazer, or when I dress up for an event. Your favourite pieces? The essentials—nude and black pumps for work and formal affairs, sneakers for mommy duties, a good pair of pants that fit well (more recently maternity jeans!), crisp white button-down shirts, and a vintage cameo from my grandmother. Your beauty regimen? Cleanser, toner, serum, eye cream and a heavier moisturiser at night. Plus of course, less stress and a good night’s sleep nochrome, solid color outfits! I just started getting more experimental with my style of dressing up, and going out of my comfort zone with lighter and brighter colors.

Get JAJA's LOOK

Zara Side-Striped Trousers

Valentino Ruffled Lace Minidress

Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Matte Lipstick Limited Edition

Topshop Raphie Sandals D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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Maria Gigante The model, beauty queen and philosophy student makes bold style statements, juxtaposing her unique fashion finds with the classics.

by Shari Quimbo photography Gia Mayola hair and makeup Chady Pantaleon

f we were Maria Gigante, we probably wouldn’t have much trouble figuring out what to wear. With her beautiful tan skin, svelte figure and an endearing devil-may-care personality, she seems like the kind of person who would look good in just about anything. “I like to think that less is more,” she says, although she admits the curated selection in her closet now is the product of months of editing down. “I’m also very experimental, but pretty low maintenance.” She was definitely relaxed when we arrived at her house for the Sunday afternoon shoot, dressed in shorts and a black silk kimono. It was a few weeks after a long run for as Miss Bantayan for Binibining Cebu, where she was crowned Binibining Cebu Charity alongside Binibining Cebu Tourism Saman tha Lo of Asturias and Binibining Cebu Apriel Smith of Badian. “It was an amazing experience. I made a lot of friends

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and learned a lot, and I got to share my hometown with the rest of Cebu. But I have to admit—it’s nice having the time for myself again,” she laughs. These days, she’s busy with her modeling and hosting career, and finishing her Philosophy degree. Although beauty queen is a title she already has in her stable, Maria takes on different personas when it comes to fashion. “I don’t stick to one fashion personality. What I wear depends on what I’m doing, where I’m going,” she shares. “I like to switch it up every now and then, and see what looks good.”

That’s something we see in her wardrobe—the pieces range from body-hugging leather miniskirts and sequined shirtdresses, to a dainty pale blue peacoat and a high-neck lace blouse. “The experimental side definitely comes from my love of history and culture,” she admits. As a daughter of an airline pilot, she’d grown up receiving souvenirs from all around the world, which cultivated a curiosity for what’s out there—though she also has a love for what’s here. “I like to support my friends who are young local artists. You’d be amazed at what they can do.”

Get Maria's LOOK

As she continues to go through the rest of the pieces in her closet, it’s clear that Maria picks up her outfits from a number of different places. “I shop anywhere!” she admits. “It helps me keep an open imagination.” It also doesn’t hurt that her best friend is Edward James Castro, Clinique a fashion designer and founding Dramatically member of styling group Blaq Mafia Different Moisturizer (who this magazine frequently collaborates with). “Usually we’ll be in a store, and Edward will just pull things out for me,” she laughs. “I’m so New Era lucky to have my personal stylist!” #Happy Cap Despite the number of eye-catching pieces she has, though, Maria actually has a pretty practical outlook on fashion. “I’m all for basic, timeless pieces and colors. I don’t have as many clothes as you’d expect—just a few statement pieces and a lot of basics,” she says. “I want the clothes that I wear now to still be a part of my wardrobe rotation forever.” Her reasoning is something backed by a more sentimental reason. “I have two sisters, and I love the idea of being able to share a wardrobe that transcends our age difference. It sounds kind of deep, but it’s really just me,” she continues. “I like clothes that mean something to me. I never get a piece of clothing unless I can’t live without it, so everything in there is my favorite.” Z

Zara Sequin Dress

Le Petit Trou Emmanuelle Silk Kimono

Louis Vuitton Monogram Speedy

An outfit that will always make you feel stylish? Monochrome, solid color outfits! I just started getting more experimental with my style of dressing up, and going out of my comfort zone with lighter and brighter colors. Your favorite pieces? Palazzo pants, a shirt or slinky top and stilettos. I also love blazers. I have a lot of simple pieces that sometimes just accidentally come together, but those are my go-to pieces. What’s on your holiday wish list? Moisturizer. I hardly ever think of a wish list, but nothing makes me feel better than having healthy looking skin. It’s better than makeup.

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Nelly Egle

With an innate ability to find what works together, this well-traveled artist brings culture and personality into her wardrobe for a style statement she describes as chic and sexy.

by Shari Quimbo photography Jesse Jake Daan hair and makeup Nicko dela Peña assisted by Kenra

f the eyes are the windows to someone’s soul, then walking into their closet must be the introduction to their personal style statements. That certainly holds true for Nelly Egle—as she gives us a tour of her closet, it’s clear that it embodies the different facets of her personality. Her current seaside lifestyle (her husband Rene is the general manager of Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa) is represented by flowing dresses in wispy fabrics and vivid tropical prints. Asianinspired details, like the beautifully crafted armoire in one corner or the carved detailing of the long table for her accessories, are subtle odes to her Chinese heritage. And throughout the room (and the rest of the home, in

fact) are carefully selected paintings that show her affinity for art. “That’s not the piece I really wanted here, though,” she tells us, pointing to a framed painting of a woman seated daintily with her legs crossed in front of her. “I painted it,” she tells me, and thanks us graciously when we compliment the piece. “It’s nice, but I don’t think it’s the best match for the room.” With the eye and sensibilities of an artist, Nelly just has an innate flair for putting things together. Her closet, a converted guest bedroom redecorated with clothing racks and shelves, are full of stylish tableaus that show this off.

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In the middle of the room is a long table for her accessories. “I think I bought this more to display in the home than for me to use,” she laughs, admiring the Neil Felipp Oceania minaudiere in the middle. On both ends are an array of her accessories— necklaces and rings arranged on a colorful silk scarf on one, and earrings housed in clear acrylic cases in the other. Below it are a row of her shoes, all somehow a work of art in themselves for their sculptural forms. As for her clothes, the range goes from bold prints to muted colors, from sleek silhouettes to unapologetic ruffles. One such ruffled piece is a J. Crew skirt that she was excited to put

Get NELLY's LOOK Zara Ruffled Sateen Skirt

Creme de La Mer

on. “This is my new favorite piece. It's not really a super luxurious brand, but the details are so good,” she points out the ruffles on the skirt. “It’s nice for the beach, or for an event. What do you call it? Chic and sexy.” Of course, a lot of the clothes have also been amassed from her and her husband’s travels and residencies around the world. One such piece is a body-hugging wrap dress with a Pucci-esque print that she had gotten made for her while in Italy. “I used it a lot when we were in the Maldives,” she says, referring to Rene’s tenure at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa. “It’s great for the beach, so it’s perfect for Mactan too.” For Nelly, though, her favorite piece in the closet is one that’s more than 20 years old. “This is my oldest piece in the closet. It shows my nationality,” she says, pulling out a deep blue qipao or cheongsam from the rack. “It’s handmade, and all the Chinese girls have to have one. But now, it doesn’t fit anymore,” she laughs. Z

Neil Felipp Oceania Minaudiere

Dolce & Gabbana White Shirt with Silk Collar

An outfit that will always make you feel stylish? Un pantalon. The pants really work on me. Your favorite looks? The white shirt with nicely cut jeans or pants, with pearls or designer jewelry. The white shirt goes with everything, you can wear it without getting a headache thinking of what you can wear at the last minute. I recommend the ones from Dolce & Gabbana—they always have a very nicely cut white shirt! What’s your beauty regimen for the holidays? On holidays, I can’t live without the Shiseido Sun Cream, and the After-Sun Cream that’s very important to keep your tan longer. For moisturizing, especially when I’m going to ski, I use aloe vera gel mixed with oil. Sunglasses and a scarf are a must-pack for the beach. And Creme de La Mer. I’ve been using it for the last few years. D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

ROBINSONS LAND PROVIDORE

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CONVERSATIONS In the midst of uncanny similarities lie certain differences—just like fingerprints, no two are exactly identical. When you take two people who may seem alike on the outside, you find that there are things that set them apart. This month’s Conversations pave the way for personalities to divulge their indulgences and preferences, and share their best memories.

t’s always interesting to tap into the points of view of various personalities from Cebu’s many industries. Whether it be fledgling personalities trying to break into their career of choice, or seasoned businessmen who know the tricks of the trade, everyone has an opinion—and through the years, Zee Lifestyle has developed a curiosity to hear these out. In this issue, we talk to two designers who we have collaborated with regularly in the past. Known for his ingenious use of materials and his sleek, modern designs, Doro Barandino is slowly building a name for himself in the global arena. Similarly, Gladys Young’s Vero has become almost synonymous with

statement-making pieces that add a hint of luxe to any ensemble. Restaurateur brothers Iñaki and Pepin Martinez have turned No. 9 into a restaurant that is all at once a shared favorite, and a best kept secret. Its location in a converted ancestral home has become venue to a pared down, perfected menu that makes every dish coming from the kitchen a joy to taste. Although stalwarts of their own family businesses, Jay Alba and Erik Eugene Lim have come into their own in the realm of business. From a family with businesses in hospitality and auto services, Jay now has efforts of his own in the food business, with stakes in Korean cafe Tom n Toms Coffee and the celebrated restaurant Weekend. Similarly, Erik has stepped

up in their development company Geege Central Mall Inc., most notably in the opening of Island Central Mall. With almost 18,000 (and steadily rising) followers on Instagram, Mechalie Patalinhug is a free-spirited online personality that is almost instantly likable, with her passions lying in being a makeup artist and being a spinning instructor at fitness hotspot ZINK. On his end, Tony Alfonso has broken away from his pop-punk sound with Drop Decay, and is exploring a more grown up flavor as Fonzy. Lastly, there is marketing communications manager Kirk Tarona, whose efforts spearheading events and marketing campaigns at Montebello Villa Hotel have us impressed.

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Gladys Young Jewelry and accessories designer

To you, what is luxury? Luxury is when you are blessed to have the gift of quality time—time to travel with the people who matter most to you, time to enjoy the finer things in life like fancy dinners, a collection of a few art pieces and fine jewelry that translate the milestones in your lifetime. If you could come back as anyone, who would it be? Diana, Princess of Wales. The epitome of elegance and grace, of resilience and kindness. Her advocacy is inspirational. To quote, “Two things stand like stone— kindness in another’s trouble, courage in your own.” If you were an accessory, what would you be? I’d be a pair of earrings. It reminds me to be mindful to listen more. The most memorable piece you’ve made? Cleopatra—a pair of earrings I created for Kate Anzani. It was a pure labor of love. Favorite movie? Serendipity, because I no longer plan, living one day at a time. I love discovering the unknown, as well as new possibilities. A piece of artwork you’d love to have in your home? A Lao Lianben The five designers who’ve influenced your work, whether that’s fashion, furniture, architecture, industrial, etc? Chad Knight, Roberto Vavalli, Michela Foppiani, Stephane Rolland The hardest part about being in the jewelry and accessories industry? I choose to revolve on the positive at all times, can’t think of any. Your fashion icon? Victoria Beckham, Rihanna What book do you currently have on your bedside table? Streams in the Desert

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Doro Barandino Furniture and accessories designer

To you, what is luxury? For me, time is the ultimate luxury. Today, everyone seems to be rushing. People are so anxious, harried and pressed for time. It seems like there is a time depravation or time famine. There seems to be too much to do and not enough time to do it all. Someone with time also has freedom. If you could come back as anyone, who would it be? I would like to be Albert Einstein, as I am intrigued by how his mind discovered the Theory of Relativity. If you were an accessory, what would you be? I would definitely be a bag. It doesn’t only complement your fashion—it’s also utilitarian. The most memorable piece you’ve made? I designed a serving tray ten years ago, which I asked a local manufacturer to do for me. An agent of a big, established brand abroad saw it and included it in their collection, and it was passed on as theirs. It was memorable for me, as it validated me as a designer and that my designs were on a certain, distinguished level. Favorite movie? The 1976 film In the Real of Senses by Nagisa Oshima, or The Schindler’s List by Steven Spielberg because it moved me. A piece of artwork you’d love to have in your home? A Donald Judd sculpture or as Ai Wei Wei piece The five designers who’ve influenced your work, whether that’s fashion, furniture, architecture, industrial, etc? Johji Yamamoto, Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons, Tadao Ando or Santiago Calatrava, Isamo Noguchi, Brancusi The hardest part about being in the jewelry and accessories industry? The hardest is resisting and defying the trends that the industry dictates on you, and instead finding your niche and positioning yourself in the industry. Your fashion icon? Johji Yamamoto or Rei Kawakubo What book do you currently have on your bedside table? Letters to Yves by Pierre Bergé

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Pepin Martinez Restaurateur, No. 9

To you, what is luxury? Being able to share special moments with the people I care about. Your top five favorite dishes in Cebu? Lechon, lechon, lechon, lechon, everything else The most expensive dish you’ve ever had? Hard to recall any particular dish. I did have the tasting menu in Attica in Melbourne a few years ago—pricey, yet every bite was unique and very delicious. Your favorite dish to cook? Bread. I make all the sourdough we serve at No. 9 by hand. Although I have been baking it for years, I almost always find some flaw or at least room for improvement. It has become a little obsession. Your on-a-budget guilty pleasure? Spicy Chickenjoy. I just love fried chicken, and this one ticks all the boxes for me. Your favorite wine? Whichever bottle is open Favorite cocktail? Gin Y Tonic Your choice of five celebrity guests for a dream dinner party? Arnold Schwarzenegger, Albert Adria, Francis Mallman, Margarita Fores, Stephen Colbert The book that’s currently on your night table? El Cellar de can Roca. The only books I go through these days are restaurant books. This one is about a restaurant arguably at the peak of our industry, run by three brothers. The best travel destination for a culinary adventure? Japan. The care and attention they give every dish is something else. What makes a great dinner party? Great food, better people.

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Iñaki Martinez Restaurateur, No. 9

To you, what is luxury? Having the option to do what I want with my time. I think that is the ultimate luxury. Your top five favorite dishes in Cebu? Lechon, ngohiong, local mangoes, grilled tasik (large sea catfish), and the sweet spaghetti you find in kids’ birthday parties—although that last one is not necessarily specific to Cebu. The most expensive dish you’ve ever had? When it comes to food, price isn’t something that sticks to my memory, or something I enjoy telling stories about. Flavors, yes. But never price. Your favorite dish to cook? Tomato soup. I like simple flavors. Your on-a-budget guilty pleasure? Once in a blue moon, my wife will whip up some pancit canton at midnight, and as she’s plating, she’ll throw in some egg yolks. Decadence on a budget. Your favorite wine? As of late, I’ve been enjoying French chardonnay, reds from Rioja and Australia, and a few German Rieslings. Favorite cocktail? Gin Y Tonic Your choice of five celebrity guests for a dream dinner party? Russel Brand, Paolo Coelho, Derek Sivers, Richard Branson, Renzo Gracie The book that’s currently on your night table? Art of Learning by Josh Waitzkin The best travel destination for a culinary adventure? Spain. Their tapas and pintxos are some of the best mini adventures you’ll have in life. What makes a great dinner party? Great company. Always great company.

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Eugene Erik Lim Businessman

To you, what is luxury? Luxury is being able to do what I want with my time. I’m constantly busy with juggling multiple things, so to be able to balance my time with the things that matter most is important to me. An art piece you want to buy? I would like to own the paintings The Card Players by Paul Cezanne, which is actually a series of five paintings. The book that’s currently on your night table? I’m currently reading Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman. It teaches us about how high level EI is equally important with IQ in how successful we can be in both our personal and work life. It’s a must-read! Five favorite spots in Cebu? Island Central Mall, golf courses, beaches, the mountain views in Busay, good restaurants Your dream business venture? The tech industry has always fascinated me, and I would like to get into app development and IT. The person you look up to the most? My dad. He has consistently taught me the values of hard work, perseverance and patience. I enjoy our nightly conversations about entrepreneurship, and I learn so much through his guidance and mentorship. The best advice you received about going into business? Set priorities, manage your time, be patient, and persevere. Have grit, because going into business is not for the faint-hearted. You need to be steadfast in your goals, and have a clear roadmap on how you want to achieve them. Next weekend getaway? Dubai with my family—but definitely for more than a weekend! Number one thing on your bucket list? To give back to the community through education, and fund sustainable charitable institutions

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Jay Alba Businessman

To you, what is luxury? Quality time with my family and friends An art piece you want to buy? Leo Gestel’s Autumn Day The book that’s currently on your night table? 100 Things Successful People Do by Nigel Cumberland Five favorite spots in Cebu? Sirao Peak, Banayan Island, Bogo, the beaches of Mactan, Badian Your dream business venture? Real estate and water The person you look up to the most? My father The best advice you received about going into business? If you love what you are doing, then what you are doing won’t feel like work Next weekend getaway? Off to the mountains for a picnic with the kids Number one thing on your bucket list? The Aurora Borealis

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Mechalie Patalinhug

Makeup artist and fitness trainer To you, what is luxury? Time is a luxury. We can’t get time back. Your ultimate splurge? My guiltiest splurge would be my bikinis. I can’t live without them. The brands you’re always stocking up on? Brands that you can find in Cebu, which are Bershka, Topshop, Forever 21, H&M, Zara, Solti Activewear, and Nike Your dream fashion item? Wishing for the Louis Vuitton Palm Springs mini backpack—I can’t stop thinking about it! The craziest party you’ve ever been to? That would be the summer of 2016 for La Boracay. Boracay has the craziest beach parties! The five things you always have in your bag? Wallet, lip balm, perfume, sunglasses and a rosary Best song of all time? I Have Nothing by Whitney Houston Favorite movie of all time? The Parent Trap Your five favorite spots in Cebu? Mountain View, the Mactan beaches, Moalboal, Sumilon Island, and Pescador Island Most memorable travel getaway? A Singapore trip with my family last year Your favorite thing to do in your spare time? I’d be tanning at the beach Number one thing on your bucket list? The top of my list would be skydiving in Dubai

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Tony Alfonso Musician

To you, what is luxury? Luxury is having the freedom and time to do almost everything and anything, when you want to do it—especially having the time for yourself when you lead a busy life. Your ultimate splurge? Definitely a big meal and some musical gear The brands you’re always stocking up on? I like hoarding Vans shoes Your dream fashion item? I’ve been eyeing a Boda Skins leather jacket for a while. Hopefully I’ll be getting one soon enough. The craziest party you’ve ever been to? The pre-commercialized Sinulog days, for sure The five things you always have in your bag? My laptop, headphones, a notebook, some chargers and an extra shirt Best song of all time? Somewhere between Phil Collins’ In the Air Tonight, and Panic at the Disco’s Death of a Bachelor Your five favorite spots in Cebu? Abaca in Crossroads, Balamban, Moalboal, Ayala, the SRP road Most memorable travel getaway? When me and my cousins went around the southern Canadian countryside—I think it was somewhere around the Bruce Peninsula Your favorite thing to do in your spare time? Play video games and listen to a lot of music Number one thing on your bucket list? Travel around the world doing anything music-related

Juicy Angus Steak

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Kirk Tarona

Marketing Communications Manager, Montebello Villa Hotel To you, what is luxury? Luxury is exclusivity—I’m talking about the lifestyle, the places I visit, the parties I join, and where I buy things. Luxury can also be free, like sleeping in the most comfortable bed all day. It’s up to you to decide on what you think is a luxury, and revel in it. What makes a good hotel/resort? It’s when you make the experience your main product. It’s not just the level of service, the facilities available, the food, or the bed—it’s the overall experience, from when guests enter the hotel up until they leave. Your favorite travel destination in the Philippines? El Nido in Palawan is paradise, and Baguio City is perfect for a holiday! Your next weekend getaway? Sumilon Island The best part about working in the hospitality industry? Everyday you get to meet different kinds of people, with different nationalities, cultures and backgrounds. I enjoy absorbing different ideas from them through interaction. The best part, though, is that feeling when you make guests happy, when you see a smile on their faces, when you are able to fix a predicament they think could not be fixed. What’s your most memorable hotel experience? Once in Hong Kong, we didn’t like the hotel we booked on Agoda, we walked around the Tsim Sha Tsui area for three hours at dawn in search for a place to sleep. We walked into different hotels, from mid- to high-end properties only to get denied, and some even treated us like stray dogs only because they were full. That was the time when I realized the international policies of hotels when occupancy is full, and hotel rates f luctuate daily, and that they even be f lexible with what amenities to offer you. We were finally able to check into a modern boutique hotel at 4:30 AM. HK boutique hotels are, indeed, the best in Asia.

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SET THE PACE Sure it’s a race, but it’s far from being fast and furious. With an impressive lineup of classic cars and participants from around and outside the Philippines, the Tour de Cebu celebrates the first year of its regularity races—drives that celebrate the joy of driving vintage, while enjoying the beautiful sights of the country. We got a chance to sit down with some of the gentlemen behind the event, and discover that it remains, at its core, all about a shared passion. by Shari Quimbo portrait photography Joseph Ong Tour de Cebu photography Erwin Lim and Dream Weaver PH grooming Arnauld

t’s just a few days before the fourth Tour de Cebu kicks off, and in the midst of preparing their cars and themselves for the event, Jay Aldeguer, Kenneth Cobonpue and Darren Deen of PACE (Performance and Classic Enthusiasts of Cebu) found the time to sit down with us for dinner. It’s a gesture that we at Zee very much appreciated—after all, these men would be considerably busy even if the race wasn’t imminent—but I realize that they might also be there because they couldn’t resist the chance to talk about classic cars. Founded about 14 years ago, PACE is a group of Cebuanos who shared a passion for vintage cars. They’ve since shared this passion with the community through Tour de Cebu, an annual regularity race that brings together a number of vintage cars from around the country. This

year’s route traversed through Bohol, and included a lineup of more than 50 cars and drivers, some of which came from Singapore and Spain. As we dined on the amazing fare from Tavolata, we talk to Jay, Kenneth and Darren about the beginnings of Tour de Cebu, and their love of classic cars. I picked up a lot of information along the way— that the Porsche is the most reliable vintage car out there, that American cars are built for the highways, and that it takes a lot of time and resources to properly restore and maintain a classic car. As we find out, though, being able to drive through country roads in a 60-year old car will make any effort and expense totally worth it. Zee: This is the fourth Tour de Cebu. How did you guys come up with this idea?

Jay: Well, we were about to celebrate our 10th anniversary, and almost every year, we do long runs around the Philippines—Bacolod, Dumaguete, Leyte and Tacloban. On our 10th year, we wanted to do something special, and since we’d been driving our cars already to these place, we thought it would be a good idea to invite other aficionados and enjoy the scenery of the Philippine islands. But then, we wanted to do something that was more than just a drive. We were ambitious to want to come up with a world-class event, inspired by the Mille Miglia. So we got together, and we decided to start what would be our major event every year. Zee: There was a storm during the first one. Darren: Yes. The tour was cut short. Instead of three days, it became an overnight tour.

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FE ATU RE Kenneth: We just went around Cebu—the real Tour de Cebu. [laughs] Jay: And you know, even if the tour was cut short because of the storm, we could feel that everybody was so happy that there was such an event. To be quite candid, we were just targeting about 12 participants in the beginning, maybe a couple from Manila and a few of us in Cebu. But then, on the first year, we had about 20 to 25 participants, so you could tell that the idea had potential. Zee: So looking back, how different was the first Tour de Cebu compared to this year’s? Kenneth: I think in the beginning, we didn’t have any experience in putting together an event like this, so we made a few mistakes here and there about speed limits, rules, and all that. The second year we had it in Bacolod and Dumaguete, and what was a bit tiring for us was that after a long day, we had to pack and move to another hotel. We would have to check in, adjust to the hotel, and then the next day, get up early and drive at 7:00AM. So we thought about just making it in one place, staying there and being comfortable. Spend time getting to know each other, instead of adjusting to a new hotel. Jay: That’s one of the changes we’ve made. We wanted to make it more spectator-friendly. Ever since we held it in one place, starting last year, it was nice because families started to come and join the tour. There were more spectators, and at the end of the day, people were there waiting for the cars to arrive. And all throughout Bohol, people would be waiting. What’s so beautiful about Bohol, and why we’re bringing the tour back to Bohol, is that the LGUs are so cooperative. Last year in Bien Unido, for almost 500 meters, the roads were lined with kids and they were cheering. It was beautiful. It was the highlight of the tour. And as you know, Bohol is really a beautiful place. They have wonderful roads, they have first-class tourism facilities. Of course, we have the resort, the home of Tour de Cebu for the second year, Be Grand Resort that made the tour all the more pleasant.

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Darren: I think what makes Bohol nice are the people, they’re friendlier. They don’t have much traffic, and the roads are mostly good. Zee: Has a car ever broken down in the middle of Tour de Cebu? Darren: You should ask how many times. [laughs] Zee: Was there any particularly disastrous one? Jay: Yeah, when all the organizers— the PACE chairman, who was Red Durano at the time, Kenneth, Chris Tio and myself—the four people who were organizing the Tour de Cebu, all our cars broke down on the first leg. [laughs] We were too busy putting the event together that we perhaps did not give our cars the attention they deserved. Zee: How do you guys prepare for the tour? Because these are old cars... Darren: Well for me, I’ve been driving the car everyday for the last two weeks. I drive it to the office, just to make sure every little thing is working. But with vintage cars, no matter what you do, something goes wrong. It’s part of owning a vintage car. Kenneth: I think on the second year, I brought my Jaguar E-Type, and it broke down on the first hour. [laughs] The brakes were stuck, they wouldn’t work. So I had to ask my mechanic to get the Porsche, the ever reliable Porsche 356, all the way back and pick me up. Jay: And what’s funny about that is Kenneth’s mechanics work on other people’s cars also, so they probably forgot to attend to his car. [laughs] He couldn’t be qualified anymore for the race, right? But again, it’s not about winning or competing—it’s about the camaraderie, and really enjoying these 50, 60-year old cars. Even 70 year old cars.

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Darren: Just to get them running, it’s exhilarating. To drive a vintage car running at 50, 60 kilometers an hour feels like you’re driving 250 kilometers an hour in a new car. The adrenaline, pressing on the brake—and the older cars, they’re all drum brakes, so you don’t really stop straight. Sometimes you go left, sometimes you go right. Kenneth: You’re not really sure if it will stop. [laughs] Darren: So there’s always that excitement. It’s a different feeling. Zee: Maybe you guys can talk a little bit about the cars you will be bringing on Tour. Kenneth: I’m bringing an Austin Healey 100M. It’s the oldest car in the group—1955. It’s a British car without a roof, and it’s gonna be stormy weather so I have my rain gear ready. Darren: I’m bringing a 1962 Porsche 356. I have a roof, but I have no aircon. There’s no power steering, no power brakes—as you should with a classic car. Jay: I’m taking a 1964 356z, pretty much similar to Darren’s set-up.

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Zee: Aside from Tour de Cebu, we also want to talk about PACE and how much you guys love restoring these vintage cars. Do you remember what was the first vintage car you ever bought?

“I think the good thing also with vintage cars is that, if you know how to choose well, they appreciate. It’s like money in the bank, but you can still enjoy it. You drive it.” - Kenneth Cobonpue Darren: Of course. It’s like your first girlfriend, you never forget. [laughs] My first proper vintage was a 1965 Corvette Stingray. I bought

it here in Cebu. It only had 1,500 original miles, so that’s really rare. I bought it from a car collector who had so many cars and never used it. Restoring the car took time—actually I’m still restoring it up to now. It’s a never-ending story, but it’s just fun. Having those parts arrive from the US, seeing it installed in the car, then driving it. It’s a different feel. Zee: Do you still have it? Darren: Yes. You never sell your first vintage. Jay: My first vintage was still a Porsche—a 1974 911s, which had only 15,000 miles. It was brought to Cebu almost brand new. I’m going to be celebrating my 20th year with the car, and I agree with Darren. It’s not the most desirable of the cars that I have, but I don’t see myself letting it go at all. It’s the one car that introduced me to the wonders of the Porsche brand. Because of that car, I fell in love with Porsches, and I’ve never looked back. Kenneth: My first one was a 1959 Porsche 356A, a convertible. I just loved the shape. I bought it from the father of Bea Valdes. It’s still one of the

best cars in the collection, and I bought it for a song. Darren: I had the Corvette before you bought the 356, right? Kenneth: No, the 356 was first. That’s how I met Chris Tio. So that car was partly responsible for the formation of PACE. Jay: But you also drove the Targa. Kenneth: Yes, the Targa. The first Porsche I drove was Jay’s. He said, “You’re planning to buy a Porsche?” So he lent me his car. Jay: And right now, classic cars are pretty mainstream, but at that time, Darren was into classic cars by himself. Kenneth and I were doing the same. It was pretty lonely. It’s very different when you’re not able to share your passion with somebody else. At that time, not a lot of people considered classic cars to be a viable hobby, at least here in Cebu, so when we crossed paths and we all discovered that we had the same passion, we just clicked as a group. Here we are. Darren: I think PACE as a club probably had a big influence with the classic car culture in Cebu. Kenneth: In the country. Darren: I was trying to be humble, so just Cebu [laughs], but it started with the group. Now, it’s just spread. A lot of people are now buying vintage cars, especially with Tour de Cebu. After the Tour, it never fails—cars will be sold, cars will be bought, people are looking for cars to bring in from different places. Kenneth: I think that—like the Manila Sports Car Club, for example, is the only other club with a lot of cars—the median age is much, much older. So they’re always amazed by us here in Cebu, because we’re younger and we love old cars. And I think that’s the problem all around the world. All these car clubs, but the younger ones prefer the newer cars. Jay: Even in the Manila clubs, the interests of the younger buyers, especially those who own newer cars, are totally different from those who own vintage cars. Zee: But do you also have new cars? Kenneth: Yeah, we do. Darren: But they’re being used less and less. When you start the newer cars, there’s always the check engine. Jay: The drives are not as satisfying, especially with the roads we have

here. I’m sure these new cars are also enjoyable to drive, but in the Philippines? Zee: And you restore these old cars yourselves? Darren: We do the work ourselves? Zee: I mean, you have your own team to do it. Darren: Yeah, we have our own mechanics. I can put air in the car. [laughs] They really know how to restore the cars, but we’ve learned a lot. When PACE first started, we didn’t know what an alternator was. Now we know about the alternators,

the clutches... Jay: But you know, it doesn’t come very naturally. I’ve been exposed to Porsches for 20 years and as much as I would like to understand how everything works, it just doesn’t register. I wish I understood the mechanical aspect of restoring my old cars more. Darren: We have some members who do. Jay: Definitely. Kenneth actually understands the technical aspects. So that’s the advantage of the club also—when you have knowledgeable

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FE ATU RE

Jay Aldeguer

individuals, we understand our craft better. But going back to restoration, most of us have a team to work with, because again, classic cars are relatively new, in Cebu at least. So there’s not a lot of people that know how to restore classic cars the way it should be done. We had to go the long route to understand how to do a single-stage paint, where to find certain parts, how to work around drum brakes, and stuff like that. But it’s an enjoyable journey, and the more that we understand the cars, the more we enjoy them.

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Darren: And we always help each other. Like Kenneth now. Initially, when we started, we were thinking about all contributing to open up a shop. Now he’s got like a full-blown shop, not only for his personal use but also for friends. You know, it’s really like—we call his mechanic all time, or ask, “Ken, can I get my car painted?” But yes, we help each other, and I guess the cars made us closer. We have a rule in PACE, if a car breaks down, we never leave a member. We always wait behind, and it’s worked out well. And there’s a no overtaking

rule—you can never overtake when we’re doing drives. Zee: So it’s always a leisurely drive? Jay: Well it wasn’t always as leisurely as this. In the early days, when we discovered the wonders of driving fast cars, whenever we would be in deserted places in the provinces, we would test our cars. Then after a few months, we discovered that it wasn’t such a good idea. I don’t know if age is catching up, but we’re driving more responsibly and definitely much slower than we did ten years ago when we just started. Zee: But how fast can the cars go? Jay: You’d be surprised. Darren: It depends on your life insurance. [laughs] 100, 200 kilometers an hour on a vintage car already feels really fast. Kenneth: Because it’s not like modern cars, where you don’t feel so much. In old cars, it starts shaking. Jay: And you’re not sure if the brakes work in that speed. [laughs] So you know, you’re enjoying the car, but also saying a prayer on the side. Zee: What’s the average speed— Jay: In Cebu? Five kilometers per hour. [laughs] Zee: No, for the Tour de Cebu. Jay: It’s 60. That’s the speed limit. Darren: The way the Tour works is that you get penalized if you drive too fast. So if you get to a certain point too fast, you get penalized. You actually get more minus points if you arrive early, than arriving late. Jay: That encourages responsible driving. Zee: Okay, so we know that Jay prefers Porsches, but do Darren and Kenneth have any preferred car model? Kenneth: I don’t have a single preference. I collect a wide spectrum of marks and makes. I used to have only Porsches, but I just wanted to—I’m a designer. I need variety. [laughs] It’s too boring to just have one. I have Italian and English cars. Darren: I like to go all ranges, just to experience it. But I think we all, almost all started with a Porsche. It’s a good, reliable German car. It’s just nice to experience different ones, like I just bought an English car for the first time and I was surprised. The handling was very

good. The looks, the performance was wonderful. Zee: Do you have a favorite car? Jay: I would. Well, no—not just one. I mean, a lot of people ask me why I just focus on Porsches, and so similar models. What people don’t realize is that every model, almost every year, they possess different characteristics. And it’s that curiosity of how one year changes the driving experience— like the 911 has been on the run for decades, but each year presents a different driving experience. The more you drive it, the more you discover their little kinks and their different facets. That’s what keeps me fixated on the Porsche, because even if it’s just one mark, there’s so much

back to the Porsche. Kenneth: I think the Porsche is good. It’s like a Swiss knife. It works. [laughs] Darren: I was the American car guy in the group. I was the Corvette guy. Michael’s [Lhuillier] used to be mine. Zee: What’s the oldest car you have? Kenneth: [to Darren] the C1? Darren: I sold that to Michael. Kenneth: But that’s the oldest car you’ve had. Darren: Yeah. It was a 59 Corvette. That was a good car, but American cars are only good in a straight line.

American cars are made for the highway. Kenneth: Their power is in a straight line. European cars are made for the curves. Zee: Okay, so there’s this general agreement that the drive of the vintage car is different from a modern one, but do you use your vintage cars for the everyday commute? Darren: Well, the ones with air conditioning. [laughs] The ones without, it would be hard considering the traffic in Cebu. Jay: I agree. Before the traffic came

“You really can’t force people to get interested in vintage cars. I think it requires a different kind of personality or character for you to appreciate vintage cars.” -Jay Aldeguer to discover in that one mark. Kenneth: I think most people start out with the Japanese cars, and they move on to BMWs and Benzes. And then they go to Porsche, and many choose to stay there. Some move up— Jay: Move up? [laughs] Move sideways. Kenneth: Move sideways to Italian cars. Jay: But I would like to point out—and this is where the discussion becomes interesting—we can accept that because he said it earlier, he’s a designer. He needs to explore other aesthetics. But when we’re talking, he still swears that the drive of the Porsche is the most exhilarating. [laughs] But I wish that I was also as adventurous with other cars, which I tried. Prior to me getting the Porsche, I tried a different car. I don’t know—I would still be drawn

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Kenneth Cobonpue

to Cebu, I would usually drive my cars to the office, even those without air conditioning. But the past three to five years, you can’t drive a car in Cebu traffic without aircon. Kenneth: I don’t, for the same reasons and also because they’re very valuable. [laughs] Most of them are too valuable to drive everyday. Jay: And then you get hit by a habalhabal. [laughs] Zee: Do you have any advice for people who want to get into vintage cars? Darren: Just be patient. It takes a lot of patience and time, and get ready to spend money. [laughs] Jay: You really can’t force people to get interested in vintage cars. I think it requires a different kind of personality or character for you to appreciate vintage cars. And we get a lot of gratification, especially those of us who started with vintage cars early, when a lot of members who started with new cars discover for

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themselves how wonderful it is to drive an old car—despite the lack of aircon and better technology. We’ve seen that happen a lot. But you can’t force people who really are not cut out for it. It’s a discovery of sorts. Kenneth: I think the good thing also with vintage cars is that, if you know how to choose well, they appreciate. It’s like money in the bank, but you can still enjoy it. You drive it. Jay: Actually that motivates us to pursue this hobby further, because we don’t feel as guilty as we did before. [laughs] Before, we would just acquire these cars, and it’s almost like a money pit because, as Darren said, you spend and spend and spend. But now as Kenneth mentioned, values have picked up. Its value has overtaken most of the money we put in, and it makes it more gratifying. And it’s a good excuse to pursue it further. Darren: Maybe in the last five or

six years, the cars have doubled or tripled in value. But before that, it was really for the love of it. Jay: Well, since the value has gone up, good things and bad things have happened. The good thing that’s going on is that people are resuscitating cars that normally would have just been left in the graveyard, but the bad thing is what Kenneth also mentioned—because the cars have become so valuable, many of these beautiful cars aren’t being driven. Darren: But that’s the motto of our club—we drive our cars, all the time. Kenneth: There’s nobody in our club that doesn’t drive even the most valuable cars. Zee: Okay, just to kind of wrap it up—if there was any one car, from any year, that you dream of getting, what would it be? Darren: The Lamborghini Miura from the 60s. I like Lamborghinis—

it’s the form. It’s just a beautiful car. I was fortunate enough to see one actual Miura in Europe, one being driven in France. Jay: I like to dream, but I’m a more realistic dreamer. I feel very blessed to put together a nice lineup of cars. So the car I would really like to have would be a 356 Speedster, and that’s quite reachable. It’s expensive, but still reachable. And then maybe ten years from now, if you ask me the same question, I’ll come up with another realistic answer. But for now, I’d be happy with a 356

“I guess the cars made us closer. We have a rule in PACE, if a car breaks down, we never leave a member. We always wait behind, and it’s worked out well.” - Darren Deen

Speedster. The form is just so pure. The Speedster has one of the purest silhouettes out there. I have a few 356’s and they drive beautifully—I can only imagine what a Speedster would be like. Kenneth: For me, if money were no object, I would like the first Testa Rossa, the Ferrari 250. It’s a beautiful car. Jay: The problem with those cars Ken, the minute you buy one, you’re not gonna drive it. [laughs] Darren: That’s why it’s a dream. Kenneth: It’s about $50 million. Jay: Well, the value is relative, right? If you can afford to buy that car, then you can afford to drive it around. Kenneth: It’s hard to buy, and it’s hard to drive. [laughs] But realistically, I think the Lamborghini Countach, the first one. Z

Darren Deen

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COVER S TORY

ON VANESSA Ricardo Preto assymmetrical blouse and pants. ON RAMESH Ascot Chang blazer and Oleg Cassini pants, and Ricardo Preto turtleneck sweater. All from RUSTANS.

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Driven

As President and Managing Director of Nissan Philippines Inc., Ramesh Narasimhan has the task of expanding and strengthening the global automotive brand’s presence in the country. Thankfully, the modern and stylish car silhouettes and impressive driving innovations prove the products can certainly speak for themselves. by Shari Quimbo photography Mark Philip Dales hair and makeup Chady Pantaleon stylists Blaq Mafia locale (Nissan GTR) Montebello Villa Hotel

here was a collective murmur of appreciation as the 2017 Nissan GT-R rolled into the porte cochere of Montebello Villa Hotel on the gloomy October morning of the photo shoot, the day before this very car was set to lead the 50-car rally of Tour de Cebu. With its glossy orange finish and sleek (dare we say sexy?) lines, it certainly looked like a ray of sunshine streaming into the mostly gray day. “The GT-R is Nissan’s iconic super sports car, and is the epitome of our brand promise of bringing ‘Innovation that Excites’,” says Ramesh Narasimhan, Nissan Philippines Inc.’s (NPI) President and Managing Director. Having flown in for the Tour’s festivities, he drives the GT-R with the ease of someone who understood the craftsmanship behind the hood—something to be expected for someone at the helm of Nissan’s Philippine operations. Of course, there’s more to Nissan than just the GT-R. With Jukes, Urvans and especially Almeras steadily rising in numbers through the years, the Nissan brand has cemented its presence on our roads. This may be largely

thanks to the establishment of Nissan Philippines Inc. four years ago, creating a local base for the global brand and consolidating their operational efforts in the country. “While the Nissan brand is not new to the Filipinos, our company is still quite young,” Ramesh explains about NPI. “We have only been operational in the country for four years, and during this time, we have been setting the foundations to build and strengthen the brand. Now that we are in that position to truly give the brand a push, we are excited to offer a wider range of innovative vehicles to cater to a highly intelligent automative market.” Models like the spacious Urvan, the tough Navra pickup, the economical Almera, and the stylish Juke have all gained a following in their respective. “It’s very difficult to choose just one,” Ramesh says when asked if he had a personal favorite in the Nissan lineup. “My favorites definitely include the Nissan GT-R and Patrol Royale. In Japan, I had the chance to drive the Note E-Power. It’s a small car, but because of the technology behind it, it delivered a very exciting and exhilarating drive.” Nissan currently has 34 dealerships in 31 cities around the

Philippines, three of which are in Cebu. “Our three dealerships are spread out in Cebu—one in the north, one in Cebu City, and one in the South—to cater to the growing market, and expand our reach in the region,” Ramesh shares. Nissan Maguikay in Mandaue City, headed by Julie Tio, has been in operations for years, while Charles Sy’s Nissan Central in the North Reclamation Area, and Markane and Michael Goho’s Nissan South in Talisay opened one day apart earlier this year. “At the end of the day, the objective is to grow the Nissan brand in the Philippines, and with the support of these three dealers, we believe that we can achieve this goal,” Ramesh continues. Ramesh certainly seems like the perfect fit for his role atop the company. He’d worked in finance for the Ford Motor Company in Australia for ten years, before moving on to Nissan Motors in the same country, where he took on the role of Chief Financial Officer. Ramesh certainly seems like the perfect fit for his role atop the company. A gradate of Commerce and Cost and Management Accounting in India, he had moved to Australia to finish his Masters

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of Business Administration at the Monash University in Melbourne. From there, he worked in finance for the Ford Motor Company for ten years, before he took on the role of Chief Financial Officer in Nissan Motors Australia. “During that time, I was fortunate to have had a number of different roles that helped me deepen understanding of the business and automative industry as a whole,” Ramesh shares of his past experience. “Having a strong background in Finance has definitely helped me in my current role as NPI’s President and Managing Director. Being able to understand the company’s financial situation ensures that were growing profitability in a sustainable way.” When the opportunity to move to the Philippines came up two years into his tenure, though, Ramesh thought it would be a great change. “I was eager to move to a more general management position to broaden my view of the organization. So when this opportunity arrived, I was more than willing to take it,” he admits. These days, Ramesh oversees the company’s operations in the Philippines, and works with his team in creating a vision for the organization and developing strategic plans that will help achieve that vision. “These include plans to expand our business, grow our market share, and identify potential growth segments for the brand,” Ramesh explains. “But the most important part of my job, I believe, is to ensure that we have a highly motivated team who would put those plans into action. I enjoy getting to know the employees, and what they need in terms of support and training, because a strong, passionate team is what will bring Nissan to the next level.” The conscious effort to focus on the team is something to note,

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considering Ramesh believes the best part about the Philippines is its people. “Filipinos are so hospitable, friendly and welcoming. I have felt very at home here, since day one,” he admits. “I enjoy the family-like atmosphere show, as well as their love of food and music. These, along with the vibrant market, make the Philippines a very attractive place to live in.” Part and parcel to the job is traveling to different parts to the country on business, bringing us back to the day of the shoot. He stands

next to GT-R, looking dashing in a Ricardo Preto jacket that matched the sporty feel of the car. “This particular model, which is the vehicle’s latest iteration, features between ‘GT’ or Grand Touring, and ‘R’ or Racing. This means that it is the most comfortable GT-R ever made, yet does not compromise its driving performance,” he told us. “It was launched here in the Philippines in 2016, during the fifth Philippine International Motor Show, and has been making waves in the market ever since.” Even in its older models, the GT-R is certainly iconic, but Ramesh explains that elements of the car’s

aesthetic is also present in the other models in Nissan’s lineup. “In terms of looks, our vehicles carry specific design elements that give them a distinct Nissan style and allow them to stand out on the road,” he says. “In terms of technology, we are beginning to bring in Nissan Intelligent Mobility in the Philippines, starting with the new Nissan X-Trail. Nissan Intelligent Mobility, or NIM, is a comprehensive set of features that makes driving safer and more enjoyable for the customer.” Displaying the full power and features of the NIM was the recently launched Nissan IMx at the 45th Tokyo Motor Show this year, promising a better driving experience by creating a better connection between you and your car. The NIM has features that can only be defined as the future of driving—the Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, which watches two cars ahead for accident prevention; the Intelligent Blind Spot Warning that alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots; the Intelligent Lane Intervention that keeps you from drifting out of your lane; the Intelligent Back-Up Intervention that checks for vehicles behind you and automatically brakes for things you can’t see; the Intelligent Around View Monitor that gives you a bird’s eye view of your surroundings; and the Intelligent Distance Control, which ensures you’re following other cars from a safe distance in traffic. Certainly impressive in itself, the NIM is packaged in stylish, contemporary vehicle shapes that show how Nissan brings together beautiful aesthetics and innovative technologies for a ride that’s like no other. “Innovation that Excites,” Ramesh reiterates the brand promise as he gets in the car to reposition the GT-R into another photo-op spot. With everything coming up and Ramesh behind the wheel, it seems inevitable that Nissan Philippines Inc. is set on delivering that promise. Z

Julie Tio

Nissan Cebu Mandaue

ML Quezon Avenue, Maguikay, Mandaue City photography Ezekiel Sullano makeup Romero Vergara hair Jesse Egos

What made you choose Nissan as a brand to bring into Cebu? We have the unique distinction of being one of the oldest Nissan dealers in the Philippines, with our partnership beginning in 1993. We are also one of the few dealerships in the country that distributes Nissan exclusively. This longstanding partnership has bred a culture of loyalty, not only between our group and Nissan, but with our customers as well. In fact, we have had customers in the past whose children are our customers now. This is a testament of the Cebuanos trust in the Nissan brand. This kind of personal relationship between Nissan and our customers keeps us going, and inspires us to do our best to serve their requirements. What do you like about working with Nissan? Nissan has always been at the forefront of technology. Our brand motto is “Innovation that Excites,” and this is embodied by the models that we see on the roads. The availability of these vehicles allow us to not only meet, but exceed our customers’ expectations. I also enjoy working with the very energetic Nissan team. Have there been any challenges in bringing Nissan into your area? There are always challenges between Nissan and the competition. I think that the biggest challenge we had was to build and strengthen the brand, given that there is a high number of competition in the market. Nissan in Maguikay has been open a lot longer than the other two dealerships. How has the partnership been through the years, and what made you stay with them for so long? By January of 2018, we will be celebrating our 25th year. We became a Nissan dealer almost by accident, as we were invited to join the Nissan family by one of the Japanese trading firms, who happened to be Nissan’s trading firm as well. My Uncle Peter, in a typical Chinese fashion, wanted to honor the invitation by doing his best in representing the brand. We built what was then the largest service center, a three-level building, where our dealership currently stands. We have gone through a lot for the brand, and been with Nissan through thick and thin because we firmly believe in what the Nissan brand has to offer. How do you think Cebuanos see the Nissan brand? Cebuanos have grown up with Nissan. Almost everybody that is a baby boomer or a member of “Generation X” has either driven or ridden in a Nissan—be it a Stanza, Sentra, California, Cefiro, Urvan, Power Pickup, Ultra, or Patrol. It is not a stranger, but like a member of the family. I believe that, though the Cebuanos may try other brands, Nissan will be a part of the family.

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Michael and Markane Goho Nissan Cebu South, Highway Linao, Talisay City photography Mark Philip Dales

What made you choose Nissan as a brand to bring into Cebu? We chose Nissan because we have a strong passion for the brand and everything it represents. We see so much potential with Nissan in the Philippine market. Nissan offers a lot of promising and exciting new products that will delight our customers. We also admire the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strong emphasis on the importance of Customer Experience, as this is also a central direction for our group. Nissan chose us because the direction of both our companies are very much aligned. We share many values and commonalities. What do you like about working with Nissan? We very much enjoy

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working with the people in Nissan Philippines Inc. Led by its visionary President, Ramesh Narasimhan, they embody positive vibes, innovation and teamwork. And they are very supportive and fair to us. Have there been any challenges in bringing Nissan into your area? Working with Nissan has been an absolute pleasure, as it is a strong brand that resonates in the minds of our customers. Why did you feel that it was a good time to open a Nissan dealership now? We wanted to cater to the growing needs and demands of the Cebuanos. Nissan as a brand that has a place in the hearts and minds of the Cebuanos, and we felt that it was just the right time to further strengthen

the brand in this market. How do you think Cebuanos see the Nissan brand? Nissan has always been an aspirational brand, offering attractive designs and exhilarating performance. Through the years, this has struck a chord with the Cebuanos, leading to having high trust and affinity for the Nissan brand. What is your best-selling Nissan model? In the market, our core models such as the Navara, Urvan and Almera have posted strong performance. In your own opinion whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best Nissan model available in the market today? The Nissan Patrol Royale because of its strong masculine presence, state-of-the-art features, comfortable ride, and highly competitive price.

Charles Sy Nissan Cebu Central

A. Soriano Avenue, North Reclamation Area, Cebu City photography Mark Philip Dales

What made you choose Nissan as a brand to bring into Cebu? Nissan has always been on the forefront of automative technological innovation. For example, Nissan is the world’s first EV (Electric Vehicle) mainstream manufacturer. They are currently number one in EV sales worldwide. It is for this and a whole lot of other reasons that our group, The Autocentral Group, decided to carry Nissan in our brand lineup. Nissan is synonymous with innovation, quality and durability— these are the qualities that make Nissan an integral part of our company. What do you like about working with Nissan? Nissan is always looking to do things better, and I don’t mean just with their vehicle models. Nissan is also leading the way in terms of customer experience, and it shows in our world-class facilities, which by the way is one of the first dealerships to adopt a new global standard for Nissan. Nissan’s after-sales best practices are also constantly evolving, and part of our commitment to representing the Nissan brand is to make sure our team is always updated with the best and latest customer service standards. Have there been any challenges in bringing Nissan into your area? Not really. Nissan has always been in the hearts and minds of the Filipino car buyer. Why did you feel that it was a good time to open a Nissan dealership now? Our robust economy means that more people are buying, and will buy cars. And what better brand to introduce to the market than Nissan? The brand’s values are very in tune with our target market’s needs and wants. How do you think Cebuanos see the Nissan brand? Cebuanos have always liked and believed in the Nissan brand. Our aim is to make them love it more. What is your best-selling Nissan model? All of our models sell very well. However, in terms of volume, it would be the Navra, Urvan and Almera. In your opinion, what’s the best Nissan model available in the market today? All of our models are the best Nissan models. It really depends on what you need, and how you live your life.

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Generation Next

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Fresh-faced and full of personality, this new crop of Cebuanos are our picks for who we should keep our eyes on next. photography Dan Douglas Ong sittings editor Shari Quimbo stylist Blaq Mafia hair and makeup Paul Yu, Pierce L. Daniel, Janice Barillo, Eunice Enrera and Gail Nash production assistant Gia Mayola

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Madeleine Siewert, 19

Psychology student at Cebu Doctors University Daughter of Jocelyn Lauer and Horst Siewert

Your five favorite spots in Cebu? One favorite spot would be Tops, where you can see the entire city; Osmeña Peak, because the hike going up is definitely an adventure; Plantation Bay because their swimming pools are enormous, and there’s so many activities you can do there; Sirao Gardens because the flowers are breathtaking; and Ayala because it’s fun to go shopping, and relax and unwind. The best place for a night out? It would definitely be Craft or Distillery The best dish in Cebu? Best dish by far would be the lechon at House of Lechon. I always crave to go there. A Cebuano you look up to? It would probably be Francis Sollano. He’s a really talented designer. Your favorite movie? My favorite movie right now would probably be Wonder Woman. I’ve rewatched it so many times. Your favorite local band? The Wonggoys Your ideal weekend? It would be just spending time with friends, and have a spontaneous trip going anywhere What do you like to do in your free time? I like to try to go to the gym as much as I can, or if I’m feeling a bit lazy, I’d probably just read or watch a good movie. What’s the best part about living in Cebu? It would be that everyone knows everyone, and there would never be a day where there’s nothing to do. Cebu always seems so alive to me, and really makes me feel at home. The island life is something that has fascinated me and I’m glad I chose to live and go to college here.

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JT GULLAS, 19

BS Biology student at Cebu Doctors University Son of Johnvic and Tricia Gullas

Favorite thing about growing up in Cebu? That everyone basically knew everyone here. Cebu is a small city, so people will bump into people quite often, literally and figuratively speaking. And because of this, on one weekend, you could be hanging out with these friends, and on another weekend, be with a different group of friends. Your five favorite spots in the city? Abellana, because I like sprinting there. It helps relieve stress. I also like Drip and Draft, a cafe in Streetscape; Ayala; Craft during the weekends; and if not Craft, then Icon. The best place for a night out? For me, it’s Craft. I go there with my friends at least once a month, and I’ve never had a bad experience there. The atmosphere is amazing and the songs the DJ plays is my kind of music. The best dish in Cebu? When I hear “Filipino food,” I think about lechon. When I hear about “Cebuano food,” I still think about lechon. Lechon never fails to satisfy my tummy.

Your favorite movie? Pulp Fiction and Inglorious Bastards Your favorite local band? The Wonggoys Your ideal weekend? My ideal weekend would be a nice getaway to the southern parts of Cebu with my close friends. Moalboal, Carcar, Samboan, Santander—they have really nice beaches there. What do you like to do in your free time? When I don’t have any schoolwork or I’m too lazy to run, I binge-watch a TV series that’s trending while eating a bag or two of popcorn. The best part of living in Cebu? For me, the best part about living in Cebu is that all our locations are close to each other. Our mountains, buildings and beaches are practically right beside each other, so whether you decide to go hiking or sightseeing, shopping and scuba-diving, or boating, Cebu’s got you.

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Julia Kristiana Pastrano, 20

Communications Assistant, and Events Coordinator for Coffee Prince Daughter of Dave and Mayette Pastrano

Your favorite part about growing up in Cebu? I got to go on a lot of camping and beach trips, and everyone just felt like family. Your five favorite spots in Cebu? Busay, the park under the Mactan Bridge, our rest house in Danao (we get to swim with a few sea turtles in that area), any spot in the South, and Cafe Egao The best place for a night out? Cafe Egao has got to be one of the most underrated places in Cebu. They have really great live bands, good food and cheap beer. Super chill and cool place to hang out in. The best dish in Cebu? Pochero from Kusina Uno A Cebuano you look up to? My grandfather on my momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side, Mariano Lerin. He was able to balance running a university and having an amazingly busy schedule, and still being there for all of us and raising us. It was something I really looked up to. For as far back as I can remember, he was always there for every milestone and challenge we had to go through. He is a man of reason, value and guidance, and he inspired me to dream. Your favorite movie? The Intern Your favorite local band? Cattski has really good music. My parents would take my sisters and me to watch her gigs when we were little. Her lyrics always told a story, and I just loved it. Your ideal weekend? Chilling on the beach, going on adventures, having some drinks, and getting a really good massage What do you like to do in your free time? Binge watching TV shows and movies with my family, go on road trips and seeing live bands, drawing, reading, getting bottomless mojitos with my mom at TGI Fridays, and massages Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best part about living in Cebu? Cebu has everythingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;beautiful beaches; a lot of adventure spots (waterfalls, trekking, camping); spots in the mountain just to chill out with friends and unwind; and the city has everything from shopping, drinks, amazing food and so much more.

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KEVIN MATTHEW SIAO, 24 Sales and marketing for R&M Preserves Son of Erwin and Frances Siao

Favorite thing about growing up in Cebu? Growing up here, I always loved how everyone knew each other. It assured me that I’d never really be alone in a crowd, and that gave me a great sense of comfort and security growing up. It’s one of the many things that make Cebu special. Your five favorite spots in the city? Anywhere the beaches are, are my favorite spots The best place for a night out? Cebu’s nightlife is always alive— there are a handful of places I’d deem great for a night out, but personally, Craft, Distillery, Morals & Malice and Maya are my preferred spots. The best dish in Cebu? R&M Dried Mangoes! Whether it’s just the regular dried mango or the ones dipped in chocolate, they’re perfect for any occasion. A Cebuano you look up to? My dad. He taught me everything I know. Your favorite movie? The Dark Knight Your favorite local band? Franco is pretty good Your ideal weekend? Any weekend I spend at the beach with my family. It’s great for rest and relaxation, and we get the chance to bond as a family. What do you like to do in your free time? I try to squeeze in time for exercise every chance I get, but other than that, I’m usually hanging out with my friends or doing something with family most of the time. The best part of living in Cebu? Cebu, being the small town that it is, never fails to make you feel at home. It’s a calm place because Cebuanos are warm people. Even if I do have plans to try living somewhere abroad, I know I’ll never feel at home like I do here.

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MIKEL ALAZAS, 25

Managing director of Mr. A Bar & Restaurant, Mr. A Cafe, and Mr. A Pizzeria Son of Alvin and Mimi Alazas

Favorite thing about growing up in Cebu? I really enjoyed the relaxed vibe and lifestyle growing up. Everything is within easy reach—my school, the malls, and the beaches were all just a short drive from home. Your five favorite spots in the city? The panoramic views of Cebu at night from Mr. A, our family-owned restaurant in Busay; chill afternoons at Cebu Country Club’s veranda, watching the golfers finish their rounds; Streetscape—you’ll find me in Clique or any of the cafes; Tymad Bistro for whenever I miss Paris; and ZINK in BTC. The best place for a night out? Maya for the queso fundido and nachos, paired with a double shot of whiskey on the rocks The best dish in Cebu? The lechon and puso combo A Cebuano you look up to? My dad because he’s the most selfless person I know. He’s very friendly, supportive and down to earth—just like what, to me, a true Cebuano is. Your favorite movie? Coach Carter Your favorite local band? I don’t have one at the moment Your ideal weekend? Basking in the sun at Shangri-La Mactan with family, or a spontaneous out-of-town road trip with friends What do you like to do in your free time? I play lots of sports, like basketball, soccer, golf, among others The best part of living in Cebu? Cebu will always be home, and I don’t think there’s anything better than living in your hometown. It’s where I grew up, and it’s where family and friends are.

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JOSIE GULLAS, 17

M.A.C. model and Nursing student at Cebu Doctors University Daughter of Johnvic and Tricia Gullas

Favorite thing about growing up in Cebu? What I enjoyed most about growing up in Cebu is definitely my best friends. We’ve known each other since we were toddlers, and we’ve stuck together since. If I were to leave the country for good, they’d be the one thing I’d miss the most. Your five favorite spots in the city? Sugbo Mercado, the perfect place to pig out; ZINK—my form of destressing; Streetscape; IT Park; and of course, Tops. The best place for a night out? Vault Board Game Cafe, for sure. I can’t count the amount of friendships that have been broken there. The best dish in Cebu? My love for puso and barbecue will never die. A Cebuano you look up to? My late aunt, Jackee. She has been and will always be my role model. Your favorite movie? Hands down, Forrest Gump Your favorite local band? The Wonggoys! Your ideal weekend? My ideal weekend would be taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, and going on a road trip with family and friends to commune with nature. What do you like to do in your free time? I hardly have any free time at the moment, so with the little free time that I have, I would read books, binge-watch some TV shows or movies, play video games, go to they gym, and of course, hang out with my friends. The best part of living in Cebu? Definitely the proximity of everything. Since it’s such a small city, all the places are just a short distance from each other.

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MACY HO, 24

Club DJ and model Daughter of Tommy Ho and Cherry Padica

Favorite part about growing up in Cebu? When I was a child, I remember enjoying all the Filipino games— patintero, tubig-tubig, Chinese garter, and takyan. Growing into an adult, I loved being with my friends and have created many lasting friendships. Your five favorite spots in the city? At home with my family; hanging out with my friends at Ayala Center Cebu; exploring IT park and all the dining options there, like Sugbo Mercado; Tops in Busay for the view of the city; and Holiday Spa to pamper myself. The best place for a night out? Usually we’d start with pre-game drinks at The Park Social, and from there we’d go to Sentral, Craft, or my favorite Club ICON. The best dish in Cebu? It would be the seafood. I get fresh seafood from Co-Jordan in Lilo-an. A Cebuano you look up to? My mother, because she strives hard to give me and my siblings everything we need. I’m proud of all that she went through, and all the jobs she had to endure to provide for our family. She is the strongest woman I know. Your favorite movie? I love watching action movies. My favorites are Lucy, John Wick, Taken and Kingsmen. Your favorite local band? I always enjoy listening to Bisrock. Your ideal weekend? My ideal weekend would start on Friday—we would start drinking early and party all night. On Saturday, it’d be a late lunch or early dinner, get dressed and start the party all over again. When I wake up on Sunday, depending on the time, I would either go island hopping with friends or visit the beach to relax. What do you like to do in your free time? Cooking at home, experimenting with new dishes. Or Netf lix and chilling. What’s the best part about living in Cebu? The best part of Cebu is the strong and beautiful Cebuanos, the close-knit community that I am part of. And also the beautiful islands and beaches that are close to the city.

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RAE FRANCINE SIAO, 22 HR Assistant at a property development company Daughter of Erwin and Frances Siao

Favorite thing about growing up in Cebu? Being able to spend most of the holidays or weekends at the beach with family Your five favorite spots in the city? Any spot during a drive out to Busay or Mactan is a recommended one for me The best place for a night out? Morals & Malice or Maya, because the ambiance is great. My friends and I enjoy places where we can just enjoy each others’ company and chill to good music. The best dish in Cebu? My answer to this question is a delicacy because Cebu is mostly known for that. So best delicacy— R&M Dried Mangoes! A Cebuano that you look up to? My mom, because she inspires me to constantly be a better person. Your favorite movie? Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Your favorite local band? Franco. I like Cast Away and Better Days. Your idea weekend? One spent entirely by the beach, worry-free. What do you like to do in your free time? Catch up with friends, and spend time with the family The best part of living in Cebu? Honestly I think it’s the fact that this city is so well-balanced—we’re a few minutes away from everything in the city (disregarding traffic), and about 30 minutes away from the mountains and beaches. It’s the ideal urban-rural mix.

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JOSHUA JAMES ROBERTS, 19

General Business Studies student at CIE Son of James and Rachel Roberts

Favorite part about growing up in Cebu? I loved how friendly and hospitable the Cebuano culture and people are, and how you can go anywhere with no plans prior, making friends wherever you go, and having an unforgettable experience. Your five favorite spots in the city? There are so many places that make Cebu one of my favorite cities to live in, mainly because of the variety of places to visit. To name a few, they’d be Tops, Craft, The Pig & Palm, Yoshuken Ramen, and Abaca Baking Company. The best place for a night out? For me, Craft is the main destination for a good night out—when I do go out The best dish in Cebu? The coal-grilled black Angus ribeye with oxtail mash from The Pig & Palm A Cebuano you look up to? For me, there is no one Cebuano I look up to, I look up to people that are trying to make a positive difference any way they can in our society today; the people that help the ones in need in more ways than just giving coins at the traffic lights and going about their day; the ones that do their part to help sustain and co-exist responsibly with the environment.Your favorite movie? It has to be either Bottle Shock or The Rum Diaries Your favorite local band? The band Junior Kilat would definitely have a song or two on my deserted island playlist Your ideal weekend? My ideal weekend would be a road trip on Friday to some hidden waterfall with a few friends; then Saturday boating with family and friends to North Sandbar; and then Sunday would be a lazy morning in bed, binge-watching Netf lix with my favorite person, and then a bbq by the pool. What do you like to do in your free time? Something that I’ve really started to enjoy when I’ve got the time is watching old cooking and travel shows What’s the best part about living in Cebu? Other than the obvious abundance of hospitality, I feel the best thing in Cebu is the variety of views and locations you can visit in a relatively short time, that makes you feel like you’ve arrived at an entirely new foreign land.

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JOVANNAH YU, 26

Fresh graduate from the Philippine School of Interior Design Daughter of Joseph and Mary Ann Yu

Favorite thing about growing up in Cebu? I very much enjoyed having my family and close friends in the same city. Growing up in a place with beautiful sites and beaches nearby, we always had something fun and new to do. Your five favorite spots in the city? Tablea in JY Square, The Tinder Box, Design Center, the beaches, and Busay The best place for a night out? Morals and Malice The best dish in Cebu? Ngohiong and lechon—I can’t choose! A Cebuano you look up to? My father, Joseph Yu. To me, he is the epitome of success through hard work and dedication. Your favorite movie? This is hard, but I would have to say Mary Poppins! Your favorite local band? Up Dharma Down Your ideal weekend? It would start off with a workout. I enjoy jogging to Busay—not only do I get to put in a good workout, but I also get to enjoy the beautiful view of the city. Next would be heading to the beach to unwind and spend time with family and close friends. Don’t forget the delicious food throughout the weekend, of course! What do you like to do in your free time? I enjoy going to the beach or playing football. I also like going to local museums, art galleries and historical places as well. The best part of living in Cebu? Cebu is home and it is very dear to me. I absolutely love the laidback vibe that it gives off. Beautiful beaches and islands are nearby, mountains with stunning views are just a few minutes drive away. Plus, the food is great and the people are amazing!

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FA SHION

SCHOOLS of FASHION

This issueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spread is all about schools of fashion: its myriad designs and philosophies. We bring local fashion creative forces togetherfrom skilled, masterful seasoned designers, to the experimental, cutting-edge young designers in this fete of Cebu fashion creative director Oj Hofer photography Jon Unson assistant Ed Durano stylists Blaq Mafia hair and makeup Rolito Cuizon and John Granada models Daina Nelson and Carla Meneses of Origin Model Management, Marjay Ramirez of MAC locale Fashion Institute of Design and Arts-Cebu

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ON DAINA Flamingo gown by ARCY GAYATIN. Faux-fur shrug by PERCIE REQUIERO. ON MARJAY Crop top with ruffled sleeves, and printed palazzo pants by PERCIE REQUIERO. ON CARLA Crop top with bows, and patchwork skirt by PERCIE REQUIERO. D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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Pointe dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;esprit tulle dress with rose applique by PHILIP RODRIGUEZ

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ON CARLA AND DAINA Striped shirts with flared sleeves, and white pants by LISLE WADINGAN. ON MARJAY Pure linen poet shirt, and cigarette pants by OJ HOFER.

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ON CARLA AND DAINA Off-shoulder velvet dress and playsuit by LISLE WADINGAN. ON MARJAY Bustier with draped bodice and ruffles by PHILIP RODRIGUEZ.

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ON CARLA, DAINA AND MARJAY Ruffle dresses by YOKO SATO.

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ON CARLA AND DAINA Peruvian lace dresses with fabric fringe details by PHILIPP TAMPUS D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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ON CARLA, DAINA AND MARJAY Flour sack ccreations by FIDA students Jolina Marii Aganon, Josabeth Compuetso and Gretchen Agot

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The Best of

NEW YORK Fashion Week

Spring /Summer 2018

From the shows to after parties, Zee Lifestyle Editor-at-Large Melo Esguerra gives us a rundown of what happened in the Big Appleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s showcase that is New York Fashion Week.

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Tory Burch For S/S2018, Tory returns to a longtime inspiration: interior decorator David Hicks, whose fearless love of color and geometry have not only influenced the store interiors but the Tory Burch logo, too. With a glorious weather working in her favor, Tory Burch put on her show outdoors in the lush garden of Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum and as expected it was a splendid burst of Hicks inspired colors, patterns and prints under the heat of summer sun. Interlocking tile motifs became prints on silk wrap dresses that was minimal in spirit and ultimately chic in a signature Tory Burch. The whites and neutral palettes paired with a hint or stripes of colors that Tory created would inspire women to travel in exotic destinations.

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Michael Kors

Supermodel Carolyn Murphy opened the show and followed by a diverse set of models from Kendall Jenner to Kate Upton and Simon Nessman. This is telling on how Michael Kors puts high value on diversity and celebrates gender in all shapes and ages. In his new collection, Michael Kors idea was to bring laid-back beachy vibes to every urban piece he put on the runway. While he was at it, Kors saw a lot of cut-offs, flip-flops, and girls going pantsless. He worked on the breezy pastel colors of New York season and in addition to the subtle tiedying, he devised palm tree-shadow prints in the same breezy spirit. The stunning spring summer collection thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very Hamptons in style were witnessed in the audience by Hollywood greats Catherina ZetaJones, Nicole Kidman and Naomi Wattswho were seated beside Michael Kors collaborator photographer Mario Testino.

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Catherine Zeta Jones and Carys Zeta Douglas

Melo Esguerra

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Marc Jacobs

Being the last to present his collection at the NYFW, the Marc Jacobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s show is the most anticipated; and surely he did not disappoint. In all its beautiful silence, when all 56 models walked only to the sounds of their shoes on the old wood planks in the historic brick building of Park Avenue Armory, the show was marvelous and breathtaking. Jacobs' collection dramatically expressed a high level of tailoring and craftsmanship which breathed a sense of the regal into each ensemble. The turban, the majestic headpiece created by milliner Stephen Jones, completed the look that Jacob created inspired by his archives and multicultural landscapes around the world. The finale was a sight to behold. All women confidently stepping into the world where women rule in style!

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Kat e Spade In celebrating the American spirit in its 25th Anniversary, Kate Spade creative director Deborah Lloyd brought New Orleans to the heart of New York, the Grand Central. A brass band that played rhythmic jazz tunes as models danced along in formation all looking so chic in quirky Kate Spade style. Lloyd presented a collection that all had the brand’s signatures: prim and proper dresses in bold prints and colors complete with striking accessories. “We love the high and low this season so we’re inspired by New Orleans. And in new orleans you’ve got everything from the fantastic, sort of garden district with those gorgeous mansions to the intrigue of the french quarter to the Mississippi so we needed shoes for everything — the high, low and running around,” insists Lloyd.

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Kenneth Cole

Mr. Kenneth Cole arrived looking so young and fresh to meet up with the media from Asia at his flagship store in Downtown Manhattan and introduce his latest collection on a more personal and up close platform. I fond this very endearing. As we all had a closer look at the booties with embroidered details and the KC signature sneakers, Mr. Cole introduced the TECHNI- COLE trademark of the label thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designed for advanced mobility in modern city living. Techni-Cole pieces are designed to feature innovative performance and comfort technology for the fashion-forward, the travelsmart an the tech-savvy set. Mr. Kenneth Cole during the Q&A emphasized that we live in the most challenging times and So the brand is becoming more and more focused and its all about easing comfort and addressing the mobility of global citizens around the world.

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L ouis Vuit t on photography Eugene Llacuna

The global journey of “Voguez, Volez, Voyagez - Louis Vuitton” continues with its arrival in New York, where the former American Stock Exchange will serve as the backdrop for this immersive exhibition. From October 27, 2017 to January 7, 2018, visitors will be led through the history of the House of Louis Vuitton as a thematic journey brought to life by Robert Carsen’s dynamic scenography. Ergonomically designed, Louis Vuitton’s creations are tailored for strength and lightness. He perfected the flat trunk, now considered the beginning of modern luggage. The use of wood in manufacturing trunks reflects the humble origins of the young Louis that travelled on foot from his native village of Anchay to reach Paris after two years. The success of the House of Louis Vuitton is based on the principles of French style, recognizing the beauty of an object for its function and mobility. Since its founding, the House of Louis Vuitton has stood out among its contemporaries with a series of inventions and innovations that today make up a lexicon of timeless patterns and designs. His creations have been brought on expeditions, piled high on automobiles, flown through the skies in the early stages of aviation, on trains, and used by celebrities and musicians. Even today, these emblematic bags provide inspiration to creative directors and artists in search of new ideas.

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FE ATU RE

New York

State of Mind At the cusp of a major breakthrough in the Philippine fashion scene, Jude Jowilson Elardo packed up, closed up shop and moved to the Big Apple. assisting editor Katsy Borromeo-Chiongbian photography Wes Estanislao (www.fwephotography.com) hair and makeup Jha Villanueva (www.jhavillanueva.com) and Sara Mcguire (saramcguiremakeup.com) models Marina Lukin, Emily Alexander and Sydney Combs of Americana Agency

n 2005, Jude Jowilson Elardo was making a name for himself in the Cebuano fashion scene. His designs were head and shoulder above his contemporaries—fusing panels when everyone was doing beadwork, using teal when everyone was still doing fuchsia. Stylists took notice of his designs, eventually leading to features in glossies like this one. He soon became sought-after, with clients ranging from Chinese businesswomen to It girls, even before the term was coined. So it came as a surprise to his colleagues and clients that one day, his studio along Jones Avenue appeared to be closed. Indefinitely. “After eight years, I realized there was something missing—I was a designer, but I didn’t know how to make a pattern or how to sew. I only knew how to sketch,” Jude admits. “At that time there was no fashion design school in Cebu, and I was hungry for knowledge. I wanted to learn more of the things I was passionate about.” Jude left Cebu to continue his education in fashion design at the Parsons School of Design in New York. He learned the basics of

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pattern-making, draping and sewing. He also discovered cutting edge techniques that he wasn’t aware of while in Cebu. More than a decade after, the decision to move to the Big Apple proved to be smart and rewarding. His New York bridal label Jude Jowilson has a steady stream of clients, mostly modern New York brides who appreciate his attention to detail and his choice of fabric, which is mostly 100% silk and lace sourced from Europe. He is inspired by good old Hollywood glamour, and actresses like Marlene Dietrich, Greer Garson and Rosalind Russel. His designs steer clear of cliches—the overly designed and heavily beaded wedding gowns—and lean more on the clasic and elegant. The presence of Jude Jowilson’s designs continues to reach more stores each year, and can even be found as far as Korea. Through bridal website The Knot, and through social media and referrals from past clients, he is also in-demand for custom bridal gowns. He travels the country, doing trunk shows to personally meet potential brides in the stores that carry their dresses. Their biggest break was joining New York Bridal Week at Pier 92 in the Spring of 2015. “We got a small spot, and were up against all the major bridal brands. It was scary and intimidating,” Jude recalls. “We

Jude Jowilson gets his inspiration from Old Hollywood. Seated Tallulah Dress in French Chantilly lace. STANDING FROM LEFT Harlow Dress with cape in French Chantilly lace; Olivia dress in Italian tulle soft a skirt and French Alencon Lace D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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FE ATU RE were told by most exhibitors and the director of the show not to expect any buyers because it was our first show, and we were a new brand. We were lucky and got picked up by a few stores. We were happily surprised and grateful, since it was unexpected. After the show, we needed to find a small studio in Manhattan to be our sample room. We found one in the NoMad district. This Fall 2016 will be our fifth season, and we moved to a new larger studio earlier this year in the heart of Chelsea. Similar to brands like The Row who produce domestically in an effort to resuscitate the city’s garment District, Jude Jowilson is proudly “Made in New York.” But unlike these massively funded brands, Jude swears you don’t need to break the bank to start a fashion label. “In 2013, I started building my first collection

“At that time there was no fashion design school in Cebu, and I was hungry for knowledge. I wanted to learn more of the things I was passionate about.” of 13 dresses all by myself—with no assistance, a one-man show. We started in the kitchen of our old apartment, and then used one of our spare small bedrooms for sewing.” Part of the reason why his label is so successful is because of how involved Jude is in every aspect of production. The quality of craftsmanship is exceptional. His business partner and husband Larry shares, “He has a way about him that makes everyone feel comfortable, and there’s no denying his creations are beautiful works of art.” Jude Jowilson Elardo has changed his brand to Jude Jowilson as a rebirth of sorts, a proverbial toast to new beginnings. This second act, it seems, is proving to be quite the New York success story. Z

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Their studio is in a 1920s building with original tin ceiling. For appointments you can call +1 (917) 362-878 or email them at info@judejowilson.com. Visit their website at judejowilson.com

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ROBINSONS LAND YEAR END STAYCATION

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SPACES At Zee Lifestyle, we have a thing for stylishly created spaces. This month, we take a look at a creatively refurbished ancestral home, and a cosmopolitan apartment on New York Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hudson River.

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Never Gets Old Nestled quietly in a Banilad village, an ancestral home and its slightly more modern extension, demonstrates how a little bit of history can go a long way. by Carlo Rivera photography Gia Mayola

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THIS SPREAD CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT The newly-built six-feet deep plunge pool; the home’s facade adorned with lush greens on the side; the home’s main door.

e can’t help but admire old houses— the character and history within their walls tell a story that more modern abodes can’t compete with—and this one was no exception. We knew this was going to be an interesting home by its entrance, where heavy-looking wooden doors greeted us with their complex pattern of serpentine coils.

With the original owners now staying in their hometown outside of Cebu, the house has been placed under the care of their citydwelling relatives who work hard in retaining the home’s heritage. “They still stay here when they’re in town,” the current de facto owner explains as she gives us a tour of the house. Ancestral seems like the perfect adjective to describe the home—the breezy sala itself is host to an antique rectangular narra table, an elegant white grand piano, British bespoke vases, and other valuable (monetary and sentimental alike) pieces. The old world charm is rendered further by the softly lit interiors, with the source of light being the afternoon sun coming through the lattice windows that separate the house from the newly renovated pool and garden. The room is enveloped in neutral tones, along with classic floral-printed cushions and table runners. Picture frames either hang from the wall or are scattered across different flat surfaces—each frame holds a faded photo of the people who have lived in this home. In this section, they are a memorabilia mosaic that seems to come to life, recollecting a series of flashbacks. On the left side of the living room is what we thought the most beautiful part of the house—a grand narra staircase that spiraled gracefully upward. Below are sets of heirloom jars, arranged in an artful fashion. These are pieces inherited over the years, and although there might not have been enough room for all of them, the owner (herself an interior designer) proves that if there’s a will, there’s a way. Breaking the historical tone is an elevator. “It’s for my in-laws, so that they won’t have a hard time going up the stairs,” the owner shares. D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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LIVING

As a beautiful contrast, a classic chandelier hangs from the ceiling while a harp sits in the corner. As with many ancestral homes, it's gone through some changes over the years; however, they’re careful to retain the antique aesthetic. The designer-owner has a fascination with antiques, sharing that she’s never bought anything modern. Everything is either an original or refurbished. Adjacent to the ancestral home is where the owner stays, a residence that she proudly shares she had designed and conceptualized herself. It almost feels like a miniature fairy book castle—the wood work is generous, and against the light, it feels like an old Spanish residence.

It seems natural, then, that the designer-owner is fascinated with antiques, sharing that she’s never bought anything modern. Everything is either an original or refurbished. The extension seems to defy conventional architecture with a structure that's long and narrow. Its cladding helps it blend naturally into the well-manicured landscape, while a tree seems to grow into the facade. A pair of crafted wooden doors lead to it, along with a wooden sculpture of the Mother and Child. The entrance hall is airy, with a sliding door that faces the garden—a stream of daylight gives the tropical throw pillows and pastel colors of the living room a warm shade. Further into the house is

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THIS SPREAD CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT The intricate wooden doors of the the in-law’s house; snapshot to some of the family’s antique furniture; the spiraling staircase made from a Narra tree; the antique grandfather’s clock; the big windows allow light to filter into the room that holds the grand piano.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Family portraits displayed on their living room; a spacious dining room; some of the antique elements that add character to the space.

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the owner’s favorite space: an altar where the family prays together, patterned like a belfry with a very high ceiling. The saints on display were carried from the owners’ travels, including a century-old mother and child sculpture, the space’s centerpiece. Outside is a plunge pool, its cool blue waters standing out against the lush grass. On the side is a small pond surrounded by potted plants with an image of Our Lady of Fatima standing watch. Coming in with the renovation are more plants,

With modern edifices sprouting up around the city, it’s nice to see a home that celebrates its history—and shows how the classics can truly stand the tests of time. including vines that will hopefully crawl up and cover the walls. “It’s nice to see a lot of greens outside,” the owner adds. Integrated but each with distinct personalities, the residences are testament to how a house can take on a character of its own. With modern edifices sprouting up around the city, it’s heartening to find a home that celebrates its history—and shows how the classics can truly stand the tests of time. Z

THIS PAGE FROM TOP A vintage sofa set with green plants on the background; The altar with the century-old Mother and Son sculpture; another relaxing space found in a corner of the house; the wide entertaining area to receive guests and has more likely a part of the living room. D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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HUDSON RISING High above the Hudson River, a couple dreams up their vision of rustic luxury. assisting editor Katsy Borromeo-Chiongbian photography Don Servillas

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ridal designer Jude Jowilson Elardo and husband Larry Manogue, Director of Sales Operations for a major broadcasting network, weren’t looking to fall in love when they stumbled upon an open house in a high-rise building down the street from where they lived. But the views it offered—from the George Washington Bridge, down the Upper West Side to the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center—made a compelling argument. They had just remodeled the bathroom of a three-story house they owned and they weren’t looking to buy a new place, but they just couldn’t resist. “We made an offer for less than the asking price. The realtor said they’d never accept the offer—it was, after all, in a high-rise with unobstructed views and a doorman— but they did,” says Larry. “It is located in West New York, a part of New Jersey that is underrated. People may know Jersey City and Hoboken, but not a lot of people know where West New York is, and they are surprised by our views and close proximity to NYC.” The apartment in itself was in a sorry state of pink walls and nondescript interiors, and they were intent on doing a complete remodel. They had a mere 11 weeks to work with, from the time they closed on their new high-rise purchase until the time they had to move out of their old home. With the narrow timeline, Jude and Larry made sure that they had all the supplies the contractor needed (such as tiles, lighting fixtures, faucets, and the like), so there was no delay when they completed work in one room and moved on to the next. Being in a high-rise building with a co-op, there were a lot of restrictions too. Jude shares, “There were load-bearing walls we couldn’t remove, and plumbing and gas lines that had to stay where they were. So we incorporated those things into part of our design aesthetic.”

THIS SPREAD Jude and Larry spend most of their spring and summer evenings in the balcony enjoying hors d'oeuvres and cocktails and watching the sun set. Here, Jude's DIY accent pillows in geometric and chevron print are in full display. D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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THIS SPREAD CLOCKWISE FROM TOP The fireplace anchors the living area, giving the space a cozy feel; Jude and Larry have been married for three years and this is the second home they share together; The bar is a popular spot in Jude and Larry’s home. The martini is their drink of choice.

They also had to replace the original floor with new maple hardwood floors throughout the apartment and the outdated countertops with Carrera marble. Both bathrooms and the kitchen had to be gutted and customized to their tastes. In the end, it was all worth it. Situated on the 11th floor, you enter into a space of over 1500 square feet that opens up to the living room, kitchen and dining area. There is a balcony overlooking New York and the Hudson River right off the main living-dining space. The sun-flooded living area frames the Manhattan skyline perfectly. Off the great room is a spare bedroom, where they changed the entrance to pocket doors so it can be used for additional entertaining space when needed. Down the hall are the guest bathroom, guest bedroom and master bedroom with an en suite bathroom. Framed with crown molding, the walls were set in tabula rasa of white and ivory. “I would

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never choose to live in a house that is mostly white, but that was Jude’s vision,” Larry laughs. “He is the designer, and it turned out beautifully.”

“I would never choose to live in a house that is mostly white, but that was Jude’s vision,” Larry laughs. “He is the designer, and it turned out beautifully.” Color crescendos as the seasons change, and Jude meant for the decor to reflect the romance of the evolving city. He adds pastel accent pillows and fresh blooms for

spring, and for the past summer, he has incorporated a lot of blues and nautical stripes in the decor. Jude found most of his furniture from convenient and practical one-stop hubs like Restoration Hardware, West Elm and Pottery Barn. Mixing in elements of different eras—Victorian, Neo-classical and Contemporary. A fun piece that subtly pushes the envelope is a sculpture of Larry hanging in the bedroom. “In 1993, I commissioned Brooklyn-based artist Avi Zuckerman to create a sculpture of myself from the waist up,” Larry shares. “I had to be covered by the plaster for over 45 minutes, breathing through a straw.” When asked about the style of their home, Jude quips, “Rustic Luxe, but not in an obvious or too literal sense.” Mongolian lamb furs, linen and organic cotton pillows are mixed in with brass and metallic accents. He conceived the plaid and striped tablecloth, and the living room’s other upholstered pieces to

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mix and match. It’s Country Charm meets City Chic. Although busy with their respective careers (Jude with his burgeoning bridal line and Larry with his corporate job), the couple loves to entertain whenever they can. They throw annual parties during the summer, Christmas and Thanksgiving, Jude’s favorite holiday. They configured the layout to have an open and sociable floor plan, where the kitchen is the heart of the home.

antique shops in New York. His Le Creuset collection would make Ina Garten proud. “I’m obsessed with the butler’s pantry—it functions as storage, but I can also display my vintage china and milk glass collection,” Jude shares. Larry, on the other hand, stays away from the kitchen and prefers to entertain guests through music. “I love EDM—dance music—or the remixed versions of pop tunes. Kristine W is always featured on my playlist,” he shares. Jude on the other

Jude quips, “Rustic Luxe, but not in an obvious or too literal sense.” Jude’s gowns take weeks to create, and so he loves the instant gratification he gets from cooking for his friends and family. Crowd favorites are his pies and more recently, he’s discovered that edible centerpieces are a fun way to get the conversation started. Some people choose to splurge on name-droppable artwork and furniture—Jude, the consummate host, prefers to invest in fine china, f latware and silverware from Tiffany’s and

hand prefers jazz musicians like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday. Coupled with a well-stocked open bar, and an easygoing and unpretentious way about entertaining, their guests can spend hours enjoying the view while sipping their drinks and chitchatting. From the vantage point of their sparkling home overlooking the big city, it’s tempting to arrive to the conclusion that this is the home they will spend the rest of their lives in. Larry reveals, “I’d like to

stay close to NYC, and rent a home or apartment in different places around the world every year. Maybe we’d buy a guest house or bed and breakfast somewhere and Jude can run it.” Maybe not. Z

ABOUT THE WRITER Apart from her stint working BTS with Miranda Konstantinidou for the Zee Lifestyle Emerald Ball last year, Katsy Borromeo- Chiongbian has been blissfully living away from the bubble for the past four years. “It has been incredible because our daughter is older and more aware of the world around her. It has been a joy seeing it through her eyes!” Since moving to the US, she has discovered her love of cooking, decorating her home and tennis! She now fills her free time taking online fashion classes at The New School of Parsons School of Design. On this issue of Zee Lifestyle, Katsy writes about her dear friend Jude Elardo and his bridal label Jude Jowilson in “ New York State of Mind.” She also takes us to his West New York abode in “Hudson Rising.” Katsy worked as Jude’s fashion assistant when she was twenty one and is a Jude Jowilson bride herself.

OPPOSITE PAGE In the dining area, they had a butler's pantry custom built. It houses Jude's collectibles which are, and compliments the handmade linen table cloth. THIS PAGE White on white, texture on texture; Their bed adorned with quilted duvet covers and matlassè coverlets. The pillows lend a pop of fall colors

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ADVERTORIAL

Time Travel With its nostalgic charm and emphasis on heritage, Montebello Villa Hotel is a relaxing escape from the modern world.

eritage plays an important part in Montebello Villa Hotel’s identity—for the past 45 years, it has been a garden sanctuary in the middle of a city that is growing exponentially. Like many Cebuanos I know, I have memories of Sunday afternoon swims in their pool, and housing visiting relatives in these very rooms. Even now, there is a distinct old world charm that envelops you once you enter the hotel, even from driving past the vine-covered walls and into the port cochere that leads into the lobby. The graphic tile floors, wooden furniture and graceful arches tend to incite nostalgia (and call for many photo ops). It is this particular character that is captured in the newly reopened Heritage Rooms. Tucked into their own wing by the pool and garden area, they bring together classic design elements and modern luxury for an experience that epitomizes what Montebello Villa Hotel has to offer. In the middle of a particularly harrowing production cycle, we were treated to a mini-break in the form of a staycation—marketing communications manager Kirk Tarona

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by Shari Quimbo

invited us over for the weekend to get a feel for the rooms, and the rest of Montebello’s new offerings. After a quick check-in, we were led to the room with a scenic walk through the property. The afternoon soon cast the garden’s lush green and the pool’s deep blue in a warm glow, and I’m once again reminded why Montebello was a venue that figured often in people’s Instagram posts. Black and white tile f loors, and a wooden staircase with intricate metal balustrades led to the Heritage Rooms. Far more spacious than many of the hotel rooms I’ve gotten used to, the bed is the focal point of the room. A padded velvet headboard added a touch of luxe to the king-sized bed, while the clay tile floors and dark-washed wooden furniture grounded the space with its earth tones. A basket of Cebu delicacies, like dried mangoes and masareal, sat next to the usual fruit platter, with a handwritten note from president and general manager Lui Alvarez welcoming us to the hotel. Saturday is Spanish Night at La Terraza, with a selection of tapas and Spanish favorites for dinner. The paella, of course, is a staple for dining a la España, but the croquetas were

the highlight of the meal—it kept us coming back for more. Dinner is capped off with the churros, which Kirk had told us was an old family recipe that they had decided to share with the public. Perfectly crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, it’s heavenly with a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce and sprinkling of brown sugar. The sangria, of course, was flowing throughout the night. And as if the sumptuous dinner and cozy room wasn’t enough for a relaxing experience, the night was capped off with an in-room massage—the perfect way to relax after a grueling week. Sunday morning was spent sleeping in, before having a hearty breakfast and taking a quick dip in the pool (those more wellnessinclined can opt to join the early morning yoga session). Truly time seemed suspended in Montebello Villa Hotel. In an institution that pays homage to yesteryear, it was only natural to go back to the simple, slow-paced life away from the hustle of work days and the din of technology. This weekend has told me that when the modern world gets too overwhelming, I can always take a trip through history with a little getaway. Z

Getaways With the holidays coming up, we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help but indulge in wanderlust. In this issue, our travels include a biking trip through the urban jungle of Hong Kong, a luxurious beachside getaway in the historic city of Dapitan, and a desert escapade that harks back to the age of the gypset.

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Tea in the Sahara On a trip to Morocco, Jing Ramos rediscovers the stomping grounds of yesteryear's glamorous gypset, led by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and culturati Pierre BergĂŠ

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Marrakech INSIDER PROFILE OPPOSITE PAGE Glamping in the Sahara desert. CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT Osbert Sitwell portrait by Nina Hamnett, photographer Cecil Beaton, socialite Marella Agnelli; artist Eugene Delacroix; map of Marrakech in 1930; artist Claudio Bravo; writer Paul Bowles, fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and partner Pierre BergĂŠ, this writer Jing Ramos and travel companion May Te; interior decorator Bill Willis; socialites Paul and Talitha Getty. (Archival material from A Morrocan Passion by Pierre BergĂŠ and additional images from the wires)

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et against the majestic Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is the capital of South Morocco and its character is diverse enough to be both African and Arab, modern and traditional, oriental and European. Known as the “Red City”, owing to its cluster of mud brick houses, Marrakech is possibly one of the most exotic cities in the world for its potent mixture of cultures. Over a thousand years old, it has long been a mecca for charmed circles that include artists, journalists, aesthetes, fashion designers and socialites. Think of Paul Bowles in his novel The Sheltering Sky portraying the mystique of an Islamic culture that exists only for the privileged few. Photographer Cecil Beaton mentions the city in his diaries with bold-faced names such as Gore Vidal, Anais Nin and Truman Capote of those times in idyllic tones. British writer and aesthete Osbert Sitwell called Marrakech the “ideal African city of water lawns, cool pillared palaces and orange groves”. It was in the year 1966 that culturati Pierre Berge and fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent had arrived in Marrakech. They had stayed in the grand dame of hotels, the Mamounia which at the time evoked an old world charm. In Mr. Berge’s terms, it was the concept of pure luxury that proved to be its fatal attraction. Not long after that the couple chose Marrakech to be their second home. Those years have become pivotal to the cultural identity that Marrakech has until today. Pierre Berge’s account of this rarefied life

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BLUE OVER YOU THIS SPREAD CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT Jardin Majorelle illustration by Lawrence Mynott; this writer in his favorite restaurant Grand Cafe dela Poste; Erg Chigaga Luxury Desert Camp; the facade of La Mamounia; the courtyard of Riad Goloboy; the cacti collection at Jardin Majorelle; breakfast at the rooftop garden of Riad Goloboy, the Bahia Palace; the original building of Grand Cafe dela Poste in its 1930's art deco splendor; the lobby of the Royal Mansour.

with partner Yves Saint Laurent was what drove my imagination to a frenzy. Last summer, I had the sheer luck of being invited to Marrakech to find out for myself what made these influential people succumb to its fabled charms. The city itself is split into two distinct areas; the traditional walled medina and Gueliz and Hivernage both of which occupy the French-built Ville Nouvelle. I arrived in the sweltering heat of North Africa with two travelling companions in tow, a low-keyed interior decorator and a famous bag designer on the last day of Ramadan. Nothing could have welcomed me more. We checked into a riad at the Royal Mansour in the center of the medina. The scent of jasmine and orange blossoms wafted as we entered our luxurious private quarters. I fell into a deep sleep after a three-hour ride from Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca to Marrakech and woke up to the sounds of muezzin prayers to usher the end of Ramadan at dawn. It was like entering that same twilight that could've easily been the subject of Eugene Delacroixâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s orientalist pantings. Thus began my journey to the Sahara desert and back to Marrakech in search of paintings by Claudio Bravo in the Khalid Art Gallery in Dar El Basha. To my dismay, the collection had already been shipped to Tangier. My heart skipped a beat from the disappointment. Fortunately, there was high tea at the Mamounia to settle my nerves down. Z D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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Almost Paradise Tucked in a quiet corner of Dapitan City, Dakak Park and Beach Resort is a tranquil sanctuary that offers luxurious accommodations amongst stunning natural views. by Carlo Rivera photography Jesse Jake Daan

est known as national hero Jose Rizal’s place of exile, Dapitan City dangles off the northern tip of Mindanao and has long been celebrated as a historical destination. In fact, the Spanish influence in the city is still evident—remnants from centuriesold casas are found around the city, while its laidback atmosphere makes it feel very much unplugged, unhurried and unspoiled. After a 60-minute f light from Mactan and a 20-minute drive

from Dipolog, Dapitan City slowly reveals its potential as it takes its place in the global tourism arena— and one spot that helps cement its position is the Dakak Park and Beach Resort. “This was the go-to beach place before Palawan and Boracay,” says resident manager Lani Jalosjos of the location’s lush coves and powdery white sands. “It was the ultimate destination in the late 1980s as it saw a dramatic upsurge of foreign tourist arrivals.” In fact, it was the official venue for the Miss

Universe Swimsuit Competition back when the country hosted the prestigious pageant in 1994. Set beside the slant of the northern coast of the Zamboanga Peninsula, Dakak faces the Sulu Sea in the west and a mountain range to the east. Its blue waters are home to tremendous dive sites with astounding species of marine life. The property itself is 15 hectares of land, which includes a natural reservoir for native plants and animals, and a 75-meter private white sand beach.

The panoramic view of the surroundings of Dakak Park and Beach Resort D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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The exclusivity factor adds more to its splendor—imagine waking up in your tropical-themed villa surrounded by towering verdant trees with the fresh morning air hitting your face, giving you enough energy to take a leisurely stroll along its vast shoreline. Dakak Park and Beach Resort has been a work in progress for the past five years, with the Villa Angelina’s Cliffside Casitas being the latest addition to its accommodations. The resort’s top-ofthe-line luxury suites are seamlessly tucked into a magnificent cliff, close enough to the beach where the sound of waves and the gentle sea breeze add to the restful mood. The rooms themselves are spacious, even with a king-sized bed, day bed and plush recliners, and a mini work station. One glass wall offers a panoramic view of the azure sea and dense greens that make up the coastline. There’s also a private veranda with a jacuzzi—we have

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to say, relaxing in the hot tub while enjoying Dakak’s stunning signature sunset is one of the best experiences we’ve had seaside. When you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, Dakak never runs out of experiences to offer. Adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers can head to the Dakak Adventure Zone, which is home to the longest dual zipline in Asia. Stretching up to 1.3 kilometers, it offers a beautiful view of the coast and the lush foliage below. The ATV Thrill Ride is open for those who want to stay on land. The kids (and kids-at-heart) will love the fact that packages at Dakak include a visit to Gloria’s Fantasyland, the only theme park in the Philippines outside Luzon. This destination is a gem, with burgeoning outlets in the mini mall, amusement rides for both kids and adults, and a lineup of quality entertainment. The Grand Night Parade is something guests shouldn’t miss—it features a

Fire and Thunder show, a parade of nations, and a stunning fireworks display to cap off the evening. This quick sojourn to Dakak is one that has made Dapitan City more than just a place in history for me. The triumph it acquires from its storied past has brought it to where it is today, a beautiful quiet corner of the Philippines to enjoy a luxurious and fun-filled escape. It definitely warrants a second visit, so I can delve deeper into what else this quaint city has to offer. Z Barangay Taguilon, Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte (065) 213 6813 www.dakakresort.com THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT The Cliff Casitas, the newest luxurious accommodation in Dakak; a jacuzzi just outside of the room with a mesmerizing view; infinity pool that boasts its view of the borderless sea. OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP The Cliff Casitas handsome room, zipline adventure for adrenaline junkie, amusement rides in Gloria Fantasyland, the Grand Night Parade and the Fire and Thunder Show.

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Take the Wheel John Borga shares his experience of biking through the paths of Hong Kong, and gives us an idea of why this passion is something worth crossing oceans for.

aving participated in the OCBC Cycle in Singapore with friends last year, we were eager to plan our next overseas biking trip. The annual event organized by OCBC, Singapore’s longest established bank, brings together cyclists of all skill levels, and allows them to ride along closed public roads of the city. This fund-raiser is their way of giving back to the community by supporting the National Cancer Research Fund and the Singapore Children’s Society. Fast forward to 2017. Together with Caleb Uy and Justine Chua, I found myself at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, lugging my beloved bicycle once more for another

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out-of-the-country cycling adventure. Our destination—Hong Kong! Lucky for us, sports equipment like our bikes, which we packed in oversized bags, are considered part of one’s checkin baggage allowance on Cathay Pacific. Upon check-in, the airline staff requests for the bike tires to be deflated. After the two and a half hour flight, our plane touched down at Hong Kong’s airport. Weaving through the sea of people at the busy terminal with our unusually large bags wasn’t easy, but the bigger struggle was communicating with the van driver who spoke minimal English. We managed to sort things out and eventually arrived at our hotel. The first order of business

after checking in was to assemble our bikes for the early morning ride the following day. An old friend and our contact, Francis Lim, is a 12-year Hong Kong resident and an avid biker himself. Much as we had wanted to climb The Peak on our first ride, it wasn’t Francis’ cup of tea—instead, he referred a local biker who agreed to ride with us. Unfortunately, the weather was uncooperative that morning, and having to navigate the winding roads heading up to the peak would be difficult in the rain. For everyone’s safety, our guide decided to call the ride off. Our slight disappointment was soon dispelled as Francis quickly hatched a back-up plan—head out to

Disneyland instead! This sounded like an equally exciting (and much safer) alternative to brave the rain in, although it wouldn’t offer a view of the city’s spectacular skyline as The Peak would have. Loading our bikes, we caught a train to Tung Chung, where Francis was to meet us at the station. Bikes are allowed on Hong Kong’s MTR trains at no extra charge, provided that the front wheels are detached. They may only be loaded on the train’s first or last carriage, and seeing bike-riding commuters is quite common. Just outside the Tung Chung station is Citygate Outlets, the largest outlet mall in Hong Kong with over 80 international brands. This marked the starting point of our bike ride.

After some intense pedaling, the monochrome backdrop of the Sunny Bay district slowly began to fade, and the sight of palm trees and lush landscapes welcomed us. It was as if we had been teleported from Asia to America in a matter of minutes! With Francis leading the way, we detoured a bit and rode out to the airport access road, where many local cyclists and triathletes were doing the loops—riding in repetitive short cycles, that is, which builds up a biker’s endurance. The long straight stretch of road is a favorite for sprints (in cycling, it means to accelerate to full speed, often for strength training). Buses and trucks we encountered now and then were always very courteous to cyclists on the road. The tourists in us kicked in as we posed in front of Cathay Pacific’s very first aircraft, a Douglas DC-3 fondly called Betsy, displayed at the

OPPOSITE PAGE The runway-like back road of the airport. THIS PAGE FROM TOP I saw these at the start of the bike path and this really cracked me up. It’s either this is lost in translation or this is really how they tell pedestrians to stay off the bike path–it works!; Bikes are allowed on the train as long as the front wheels are removed; Caleb blending in with the local cyclists taking the MTR. D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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FE ATU RE Hong Kong International Airport. We went back on track after the photo op, and headed straight for Sunny Bay via a fenced road adjacent to the highway, where bikes were allowed. After some intense pedaling, the monochrome urban backdrop of the Sunny Bay district slowly began to fade, and the sight of palm trees and lush landscapes welcomed us. It was as if we had been teleported from Asia to America in a matter of minutes! Had it not been for the signs in Chinese, we could just as well have entered a Hollywood movie set. The roads in the complex, much like the back roads of the airport, were smoothly paved, something we don’t have much of back home. It was comforting to ride under the shade of trees that lined the road. Cars and buses yield to cyclists here as they glide through, courteously passing by at an incredibly safe distance—again, something we were not accustomed to. For us, this was definitely what gave the Disneyland Resort its magical factor. While riding around the outskirts of the resort was a blast, we very much needed a breather, and stopped for cold drinks at a little shop by Disneyland’s Inspiration Lake. The 12-hectare man-made lake was a refreshing area to relax, but

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being on our own after our guide Francis left, we wanted to explore the place before heading back to the hotel to conclude our first day of cycling in Hong Kong. Day two opened with another wet morning, making us decide to wait the rains out. After all, the starting point of our ride was just around the corner of our hotel. It was for this particular reason that we opted to stay in Sha Tin, whereas most tourists prefer the Tsim Sha Tsui, Central or Mongkok districts. Considered the rural side of town, Sha Tin is quite peaceful despite it being

Hong Kong’s most populated district, home to about 600,000 people. We started out to Sha TIn Park when the rain stopped, and found the cycle path to be well-paved but very narrow compared to that of the previous day’s ride. The Sha Tin bike path runs along the Shing Mun River, and connects to parks and playgrounds, museums, universities, and other landmarks. It’s a popular route for casual bikers, families and senior citizens. Locals doing tai chi, jogging, and even training for Hong Kong’s Dragon Boat Festival are regular sights along this scenic route.

Halfway into our ride, it poured again, leaving us no choice but to embrace the rain. Better to be soaked in rainwater than to be drenched in sweat from the sweltering heat. By the time we reached Tai Po Waterfront Park, the rain had stopped.

Halfway into our ride, it poured again, leaving us no choice but to embrace the rain. Better to be soaked in rainwater than drenched in sweat from the sweltering heat. Done with taking in the sights, and with loads of social mediaworthy photos, we headed back—only this time, we weren’t making any more stops. Having only clocked 20 kilometers, we raced back to the hotel while enjoying the smoothly paved bike path. As the roads began to narrow down, we realized our trip had come to an end. It was time to pack our bags and bid Hong Kong’s bike paths farewell. The ride was short, but definitely one to remember. Z

OPPOSITE PAGE FROM TOP The bike route along the major highway connecting the parks to other landmarks in the Sha Tin district. As a safety measure, it is slightly elevated and fenced; Tai Po Waterfront Park. THIS PAGE FROM TOP Arrival at the happiest place on earth; Taking a break and enjoying the scenery of Inspiration Lake; Another amazing feature was tunnels that traversed under the main highways of the city. This way neither vehicular traffic nor bicycle traffic is disrupted; My travel buddies Justine and Caleb assembling the first bike; Where it all began for Cathay Pacific. D E C-J A N 2 0 1 8 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m

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NEW YORK

An Evening of Giving

Michael Kors

Kate Hudson and Michael Kors

Maggie Gyllenhaal and Gwyneth Paltrow

Anna Wintour and Melo Esguerra

Derek Blasberg and Ashley Graham

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Hilary Rhoda

Melo Esguerra, Princess Marie Chantal and Prince Pavlos of Greece

Lance LePere, Gwyneth Paltrow and Derek Blasberg

Jason Morgan and Melo Esguerra

Kate Hudson

Imman Hammam

Michael Kors

God's Love We Deliver Golden Heart Awards 2017 As part of Michael Kors many philanthropic commitments, Kors presented the Community Service Award to actress Gwyneth Paltrow at 11th Annual Golden Heart Awards dinner at Spring Studios in New York. The evening featured a cocktail reception which highlighted celebrity chef dishes, dinner, an awards presentation and an after party. The star-studded evening helped raise $2.3 million. It was well-attended with the beautiful presence of Anna Wintour as its honorary chair, along with co-chairs Michael Kors, Kate Hudson, Sandra Lee, Blaine Trump, John Idol, Nell Diamond and Sarah Arison. This year, Michael presented awards to Gwyneth Paltrow, Jordan Roth, and John Gilman. Each year, the Golden Heart Awards celebrates the inf luential contributions of individuals, corporations and foundations to the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advocacy in stopping hunger and life-altering illness. (photos by David X. Prutting BFA and Getty Images)

John Gilma and Karen Pear

Jordan Roth

Gwyneth Paltrow

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zee|events Aguilar-Ejercito Wedding Jerika Ejercito married her Spanish beau and triathlete Miquel Aguilar in a well-attended lavender-themed wedding held at the Manila Hotel. The entire wedding feels was captivated by two tons worth of flower bloomsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all fresh and imported from Ecuador, Holland, andSouth Africa. Walking down the aisle in her stunning Inno Sotto gown, she was escorted by her dad former president now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada. The weddingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 40-foot high floral wall adorned the stage and ceiling installations give the venue a fairytale feel.

Rosini Lu and Christine

Adrian Campos Garcia, Gregoria Campos Soriano and Joan Campos Garcia

Miquel Aguilar-Garcia and Jerika Ejercito-Aguilar

Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile and Marichu Maceda

President-Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Jerika Ejercito-Aguilar and Madame Laarni Enriquez

Jose Kho and Ngan You Fan

Principal Sponsors Deywa Gatchalian, Marichu Maced, Marquita Salimbangon-Yeung, Carlos Yeung, Edna Lhuillier, Ambassador Philippe Lhuillier, William Gatchalian, Miquel Aguilar-Garica, Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile, Jerika Ejercito-Aguilar, Renato Constantino, Lourdes Constantino, Ngan You Fan, Jose Kho, Jacinto Ng, Anita Ng, Atty. Luisa Araneta-Marcos, Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

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Claudia and Ezra Yeung

Celia Subirana and Eduard Montmany

Claudia Aguilar-Garcia and Lara Hernandez

Ino Tatsuya and Georgie Ichikawa

Simon Ruparelia, Juncal Hernan, Elijah Palanca and Meryll Soriano Jordi Noguera and Lara Hernandez

Chris and Carla Mckowen

Mr. Jacinto and Anita Jacinto Ng

Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Atty. Lisa Araneta-Marcos

Mrs. Villamayor and Ambassador

Entourage (L-R), top ROW Jordi Pelay Guinjoan, Eduard Montmany Jane, Fran Valle, Jolo Ejercto, John Lozano, Alyssa Enriquez. SECOND ROW Matthew Hornsby-Bates, Kitson Kho, Miquel Aguilar-Garcia, Jerika Ejercito-Aguilar , Precious Puno, Nicole Whisenhunt, Rebecca Zabarte, Ferdi Salvador, Vince Flores. Children Adriana Gabrielle Ejercito, Isaiah Ejercito Elyziah Adrielle C. Enriquez, and Joseph Alvin Enriquez

CEBU TOUR DE CEBU DRIVERS’ GALA NIGHT Kenneth Cobonpue

Camille Aguilar and Marty Aguilar

Christopher Paris Lacson, Jay Aldeguer, Willie Torres, and Joseph Ng

Jude Tiotuico, Bernard Chua, and Andy Angeles

Benjie Ong and Santi Dimaculangan

Benjie Ong

Harley Yunam and JB Mapa

Jason Lemberg

Lui Alvarez and Darren Dean

Harley Gunay andTony Lozada

Manny Dimaculangan, and Chris Tio

Raju Medalla

On its fourth year, Tour De Cebu concluded its celebration through a Retr’s and Great Gatsbyinspired event at The Glass House of Montebello Villa Hotel. The gala night was as beautiful as the evening most especially with the beautiful and classic sports car accented throughout the event. Present in the event were PACE members; Michael Lhuillier, Chris and Jay Aldeguer, Lui Alvarez, Kenneth Cobonpue, Chris Tio and Darren Deen, among others.

Anton Aldeguer

Eli Solomon, and Angeline Khoo

Oscar Perez and Michael Lhuillier

Rica Deen, Pauline Hofer, Hazel Alvarez, and Joanna Lhuillier

Sarah Lemberg and Vincent Prinzing

Soco-Nuñez Wedding Cebu gentleman Glenn Soco finally tied the knot with this girlfriend now wife Krizia Nuñez on a romantic and lovely wedding ceremony. With a solemn wedding held at Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, it was followed with a glamorous wedding reception held at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. What caught the eye of everyone is the wedding cake’s intricate details that are inspired from the famous Chateau de Versailles of the Ile-de-France region of France.

The couple with principal sponsors

The bride and her bridesmaids - Mikaela Pacubas, Greta Bacasmas, Anne Gay Soco, Jannah Justine Surprosa and Kyna Elyse Cheu. Maid of Honor: Chloe Nunez

Grooms parents : Guillermo and Adelina Soco

Groom and-Bestmen : Kenneth Cobonpue and Sherwin Gatchalian;Groomsmen : Carlo Camaya, Charles Dexter Narvios, Rey Edward Pineda, Joseph Michael Yu and Mayor Zurriel Zaragosa. Adrian Gabriel Soco (bible bearer)

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zee|events RUSTAN’S 65TH ANNIVERSARY After the celebrations in Manila, Rustan’s brings the 65th Anniversary festivities to Cebu with the Sapphire Collection Fashion Premiere on September 23. The fashion show featured sapphire pieces from Rustan’s exclusive brands— Ricardo Preto, Criselda Lontok, Jill by Jojie Lloren, Lady Rustan, Oleg Cassini, Rustanette, Kiddos and Rustan Jr.. Welcoming guests were SSI Group Inc. President Anton Huang, Rustan’s Marketing Communications Manager Dina A. Tantoco, Rustan’s Administration Manager Paolo Tantoco, and Rustan;s Vice President for Store Planning and Expansion, Michael T. Huang, who all flew for this special ocassion.

Justin and Selina Romualdez with Mandaue First Lady Maricar Quisumbing

Annie Aboitiz and Margaret Taylor

Lean Uytengsu, Tweetie Lopez and Melanie Chua

Francine Siao, Iris Arcenas and Frances Siao

Anton Huang, Dina Tantoco, Paolo Tantoco, and Michael Huang

Jul Oliva and Clint Potestas

Janine Taylor, Alice Woolbright and Christine Pelaez

Eunice and Jason King with kids Jordan and Jared

Mariter Klepp with Lucy Carcel

Garrison Rousseau, Carmen Campbell, Rosebud Sala, Annabelle Luym and Annie Aboitiz

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Marcelino, Melissa and Diego Ugarte with Robby Carmona

Edmund Liu

Rose Hennessy

Sandra Pesch

Petite Garcia, Dr. Vivina Chiu and Zenaida Larrazabal

Emma and Kumiko Onda, Kate Anzani with Eunice King

Hon. Edu Rama and Jaja Chiongbian Rama

Melissa Ugarte, Maripaz and Consul Anton Perdices

Hazel and Valerie Ypil with Tricia Gullas

Michael Sharpe, Kym MaitlandSmith and Belle Sarmiento

Lilian and Kenneth Huan

Ferdi Salvador and Pepet Macachor

CEBU Radiate the Beautiful You with Rustan’s

Angelica Niñal and Chiara Martinez

Davelyn Dy and Angelli Lua-Domingo

Divine and Kymberly Maitland-Smith

Dianne Huang, KD Tiu, Jackie Tan and Charina Tan

Erica Castillo-Uy and Kaye AbadCastillo with Emily Patiño

Karla Henry

Kim Araneta, Hazel Yap and Iah Alquizar

Rustan’s The Beauty Source, the country’s makeup, skincare and fragrance authority, brings back to Cebu the biggest beauty event gathering of the year–Rustan’s Beauty Addict Season 2. Last October 26, the first level of Rustan’s Cebu was transformed into a beauty haven with eye-catching displays from luxury brands. Guests were kept on their toes with the different counter activities from participating brands such as Acca Kappa, Diptyque, Clarins, Dermalogica, Hermes, Jane Iredale, L’Occitane, CHANEL, Murad, La Prairie, Mario Badescu, Deborah Lippmann, Nuxe and OPI. They also enjoyed taking fabulous selfies at the counters of Bobbi Brown, Laura Mercier, MAC and NARS.

Eianna and Ellice Tio, Celine Chiongbian and Sofia Baroud

Eunice King and Romero Vergara

Sunshine Alameda Guimary

Tricia Gullas and Hazel Ypil

Gretchen Uy and Jaja Chiongbian Rama

Michael Huang, Jackie Avecilla and April Marquez and Pepet Macachor

Lean Uytengsu, Daphne Lagon, Melanie Chua and Tweetie Lopez

Nicole Li, Jen Sarmiento, Kryz Uy and Neil San Pedro

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The Glass House Launching Kicking off a major plan to expand and upgrade its facilities, Montebello Villa Hotel introduced one of their awesome new changes. As the city's only garden hotel, The Glass House isÂ set amidst the lush garden of the hotel and will be a special space to celebrate milestone. The Glass House is considered one of the first brilliant works of modern architecture specially made for intimate events in the city.

Alvarez-Borromeo Family

LLoyd Chua, Etienne Chantal, Jesse Jake Daan, Sophia Sanchez, Marco Paulo Diala and Doyzkie Buenaviaje

Glenn Soco

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Jay Aldeguer, Michael Lhuillier, Darren Deen, Lui Alvarez

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Carlo Rivera, Dookie Xavier, Atty. Ethelbert Ouano, Kirk Tarona

Concon Kintanar, Lui Alvarez, Glaiza Janeta Lanete, Joshur Judd Lanete and Glorice Do

CEBU Crimson Celebrates Seven Spell Binding Years Joyce Sarudo, Jeed Canete and Jewel Almendras

Tomotaka Suzuki, Yukiko Hori and Hirofumi Kawashima

Kaye Abad, Didier Belmonte and Paul Jake Castillo

Sunish Sadasivan, Jerome de la Cruz, Carmela Bocanegra, Bing Avila, Thomas Bleimuth and Juby Ann Socorro

DJ Christi McGarry and Eduardo Lara

QUEST HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER'S Fifth Anniversary Party Quest Hotel & Conference Center Cebu celebrates its anniversary on a full blast. Guests from the media and some of their partners attended on the perfect commemoration for the hotel’s fifth year. Along with this, are the showcase of the fine creations in some of Cebu’s celebrated fashion designers.

Mayenne Carmona and Carmela Bocanegra

Kiyora Lee, Nancy Concha, Fannina Bautista, Joyce Saludo, and Jewel Almendras

Angel and Francis Llaban

Marga Manlapig, Christian Valdes, Issa Litton and Raul Manzano

Arlene Tongco, Mia Singson–Leon, Ria Jareno and Mia Mae Sy

Didier Belmonte, Francis Gotianun, Charles Brookfield and James Montenegro

Jewel Almendras, Sarah Veeser and Gerralyn Lizares

Marco Paulo Diala, Beatrice Claudine Evardone, Kat Toledo, Joanna Cuenco and Andrew Buenaviaje

Ria Jareno, Mia Singson–Leon, Gerralyn Lizares, Sunish Sadasivan

Crimson Resort and Spa, Mactan, the flagship property of Chroma Hospitality celebrated 7 triumphant years in the business with a grand celebration that featured impressive musical performances, a culinary showcase, fireworks display and unveiling of recently completed development. The venue of the event was at the pool side gardens where guests had the mesmerizing view of the Hilutungan Channel completed by the newly renovated infinity pool which is the resort's latest project complete with mood lighting at night and underwater speakers. The "Seven Spellbinding Years" celebration ended with a grand fireworks display- a mark of the seven triumphant years and the bright and exciting future of Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan.

Bayani Garcia

Edward Castro and Maria Gigante

The men and women of Quest Hotel & Conference Center – Cebu

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P U B LISHER ' S N OTE

21 YEARS of PRINT (1996 to 2017)

entimentality is probably the biggest enemy for the magazine business,” said David Carey, the president of Hearst Magazines in a September 2017 New York Times article. “You have to embrace the future.” Looking to validate my decision to shift our print edition to digital, we embrace his words in its entirety. This issue you are holding is indeed the last magazine we will print in its paper format. The print media, as most of you know, have been in a struggle with younger readership shifting to Facebook and Google and other online sources like Pinterest and YouTube. Online market reach has gone even wider to include the more mature audience, where GPS capabilities and news sites are gaining popularity.

TripAdvisor, shopping and travel apps are upending everything in their way. In the same New York Times article, Mr. Carey added: If you want to do the same thing year in and year out, you shouldn’t do these jobs. As early as three years ago, I have been having discussion with our staff how to make our digital presence stronger. Although we were late in the social media arena, our website was an early comer, established in 2011, and something that we have been regularly populating with stories from our print edition. So what happens next? Yes, our magazine continues. Zee Lifestyle will be an online magazine. You can still f lip pages with your fingers, but this time, not in paper, but in your mobile devices. We will continue to cover Cebu lifestyle, and readers will have access to editorialized events, design, fashion and other profiles, beyond their social media posts. We hope to reach an audience beyond our physical limitations. Readers in the USA, Europe and anywhere else

can browse our pages at their leisure. Our website will have more current reporting and this will also be a good source for anything that pertains to our local lifestyle – food, parties, design and travel. For the past 10 years, we have produced a supplement that we call the Zee Hotel Directory, and if you are a guest at any of the island’s top resorts and hotels, you might have seen this copy in your room. It is a vital guide for tourists and other visitors who would like to explore our city, with a map and articles about where to go and where to eat. This periodical will continue, in print and in digital form. Atune to publishing trends, we intend to print niche books/magazines covering food, design, homes and interesting personalities. As we bid goodbye to the glories of traditional print, we also embrace a new chapter with an immediacy that technology imposed upon us. As this city and the world around us evolves, we must also keep pace. We are excited for the future, and we hope that you continue the ride with us. We invite you to visit our website, zeelifestylecebu.com or zee.ph to see our progress and get your subscription app or emailed to your mailbox.

Eva Gullas Publisher

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@ZeeLifestyle

www.facebook.com/ZeeLifestyleCebu

www.zeelifestylecebu.com

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