By Dr. Rex Venard Bacarra

I stayed hours after my shoot, astonished by the realization that Illustrado is doing the 300 against a multitude of storms and tempests, highlighting other people’s achievements while remaining in the background without conceit, and not for any other reasons, but that it is worth doing it.

Right on the dot, I arrived.

What was magical, if not surreal, was the conscious appreciation that I was there for the photoshoot of a magazine known for its flawless reputation. And reputation, for people who are honest, is not just something. It is everything.

Alwee Villarosa’s fragile silhouette, creased by the embers of a dying cigarette held at the tips of his fingers, between exquisiteness and discomfort, loomed largely. Crushing the butt in the ashtray, he welcomed me with the now-familiar La Sallian, sing-song accent, “Dr. Rex, I missed you.” Kissing me on the cheek, he whispered rather nonchalantly, “Welcome to the photoshoot of the grandest and the biggest issue of Illustrado Magazine, the 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf, the Legacy Edition.” I chuckled. I thought that was a mouthful. Or rehearsed. But it was Alwee, whose brilliance, fragility, and pedigreed stance are a weapon. Every time he asks, I cannot say no. It doesn’t matter whether the request is mundane, or one that will proverbially rain on my parade. I. Cannot. Say. No. I simply drift on his sidewalk.

He pointed me to a small door that opened, jaw-droppingly, to a massive beehive of photographers, models, assistants, and some who were deigned worthy of being in the 300, ready to take their share of the spotlight.

“Please wait for a while,” prompted Ms. Rony Aquino as she planted another kiss on my cheek. Her deep, rounded voice echoed with the gentle precision of someone who grew up in the military but realized that she is a nourishing mother. So, she left. For good. Untinged by regret.

Fiction. Of course. But that’s how I imagined her life story to be.

I didn’t mind. I was awed by how bustling the venue of the photoshoot was. Klieg lights complemented the massive white backdrop, accented by colorful but muted strips of camera lights. I watched them come – the trailblazers and thought leaders – and go – the tastemakers, and game-changers – with smiles waving like a pendulum in front of me, one person to another. Wherever I turned my head, excitement and glee were plastered on every face. It was as if they unearthed something invaluable like an heirloom found; it was as if an approving nod was finally bestowed upon them lesser mortals by some feared and mysterious gods. It was as if an opportunity of this type would never happen again for the tides could change, or the gods might decide to look somewhere else, unflinching in their decision, uncaring of the mortals’ pleadings.

The gentle and bespectacled patriarch with the youthful haircut, Mon Benitez, shook me out of my ponderings. The warmth of his voice couldn’t hide the colossal undertaking that the number 300 demanded. But I still have yet to see Mon shaken, or unnerved, or petrified. His calm demeanor helped held together 13 years of publication across 131 issues. His taste discriminates. His elegance enthralls. Now, this! 300 personalities given the poshest platform to inspire. To the uninitiated, the previous yearly 100 is aspirational. To the weakling, the current 300 is death-defying.

He pointed to the direction of his other half, the Matriarch whose attention-grabbing huge earrings were no match against her undeniable eloquence. She was busy interviewing Illac Diaz, whose Liter of Light project made him meaningfully famous than being an actor. She was in her element, exchanging ideas peppered with opinions that were sometimes acerbic, often encouraging, but mostly satisfying. Paradoxical, she is. She could be caring for one minute and intimidating the next. What is consistent, aside from her vision to help global Filipinos flourish, is how well-put she is: statuesque both in dignity and beauty. I consider her to be the face of Illustrado, for she has that rare combination of the savvy charm of Machiavelli, the greatness of Ozymandias, and the sublimely-intentioned advocate of all things Filipino. Projecting this bigger than life persona yielded her power, and she could gather the moneyed, the intellectuals, the moneyed who are also intellectuals, the selfless and the pretenders, the accomplished, and the wannabees, to where others could only dream of. Yet, she can be very vulnerable, easily hurt by the people she loves. She is truthful to those she values, her words often unvarnished, and she told me once, “they come from a good place in my heart.”

I didn’t want to disturb her, so I approached the visibly tired but still, and always, upbeat Paolo Gabriel Benitez, whom I usually mistake for his brother, Antonino Benitez. Postdating the generation that started Illustrado, I could surmise with the abundance of parental semblances that the premium Illustrado blood will continue to flow, that the legacy will remain steadfast, probably will even creatively push the boundaries of potential reform yet remain deeply-rooted in their parents’ DNA: championing the world-class Filipinos. Theirs is a family that dances between progressivism and the value-laden traditionalism, where “work hard and keep your mouth shut” mentality is frowned upon. And, luckily enough, the two greatly benefitted from their parents’ public intellectualism, resonated in their love for high aesthetics and constructivist art. In hindsight, between the two siblings, it’s Paolo who is increasingly becoming the mother. The more I interact with Paolo either in person or personal chats, the more I see – feel – Lalaine in him.  But my spirit is kindred with Antonino’s. Like mine, his heart thumps words. A self-effacing TEDx speaker who’s impressively trilingual, his abstractions inform and persuade, a feat that few in his generation could claim.

I was curious to see how the small team behind the formidable Illustrado Magazine was able to gather these distinguished personalities, let alone the team of world-class photographers. It is not uncommon to see in every Illustrado event the award-winning Rozen Antonio who stuns and dazzles as a sought after fashion photographer; the debonaire Jef Anog, an accountant by profession who found his passion in glamour photography whose exhibits are as acclaimed as the muses he photographs; the dynamic Ace Reyes, whose works include many of the most respected brands in the UAE; the well-respected and extraordinary visual storyteller, Donell Gumiran, whose evocative portraits and travel photographs earned him numerous awards from all over the globe; the youthful Bethoven Filomeno who made a debut in this issue, whose works have been featured both in local and international magazines and is also an educator by profession; the international photographer Alex Callueng, whose editorial and commercial masterpieces landed on the pages of Vogue Arabia and Harpers’ Bazaar ME among notable others; and there’s Eros Goze, who photographed dignitaries, celebrities, models, leaders, and ordinary persons who have stories to tell, earning him the moniker, ‘The People’s Photographer.’

Then there’s the fashion crew – the forecasters, the trendsetters, and the stylists – the industry’s giants: The MetroSapiens – Khel Recuenco and Ivan Cabatit who are certified University of Arts London Personal Stylists and co-founders of Style Curators-Dubai; Central Saint Martin’s London certified Gweys Soriano had styled the likes of Celine Dion and German-Turkish actress Meryem Uzerli; make-up artist Mau Piodena IV, whose clients also include both local and international brands; Ron Babao and Jaemie Limbo, who handled significant brands in the industry; the nuanced Hyku Desesto of Hyku D Photography, a good friend of mine, who has collaborations that are the envy of many- Vogue Arabia, Burberry, D&G, and Netflix, to name a few; and then there’s Melon Quinzon Perez, the top-notch director whose obsession for challenges won her several directorial and film awards at the Emirates Short Film Festival.

For this Legacy Issue, they came in full force, willfully. They came asking nothing in return, for they knew what Illustrado aspires for. They see the whole picture, not just the magazine’s mythologized glory. They understand what it collectively represents, not just their own accomplishments. Artists, by their very ethos, are always willing to support the worthwhile because they knew that selfless contribution yields the most profound joy.

On the one hand, it is believability. Believability breeds credibility. Credibility stems from truthfulness. It is not surreal but divine, not uncanny but sublime, to say that Illustrado is truthful, credible, and believable. If not, it won’t be able to gather exceptional talents and world-class achievers in one room. If not, it won’t generate a sense of urgency and enthusiasm from those selected. If not, its popularity will be an offense to what is good. The fact that it isn’t and bitter haters are but a dime, people know in the privacy of their hearts that nothing is more believable among Filipino lifestyle platforms in the Gulf in existence today than Illustrado itself.

On the other hand, is its philosophy. When I first saw the magazine, I immediately grasped what it wanted to become- to promote the Filipino identity in a distinctive approach: glossy, premium, and sincere. A social enterprise, the team calls it, and not your usual gossip-mongering and click-baiting vulgarities. It aims to nurture genuine Filipino talents and recognize achievements. It inspires; just read its content. It amazes; just feel how premium it is. It encourages; just watch its journey and how it opens the doors to those who dream.

True, the journey to 300 is an act of magnanimity. 100 has become limiting as more Filipinos, some inspired by the examples of the hundred, are creating impact. Yet, to a team of six, the task could be daunting. I would imagine bloody days and nights conceptualizing, brainstorming, deciding, gathering, seeking, asking, and editing. Artists and intellectuals don’t necessarily see eye to eye. The former are generally emotional—the latter, rational. Emotions could run high, and certain holes could gape. Such could be the narrative of the journey that led to 300.

But it isn’t.

Illustrado Magazine permeates a positivity of the genuine kind. Its sincerity is but an overflow from the team. The outcome does not contradict the source. It is of high quality because the team is. It is positive because the team is. The Legacy edition is bound to be amazing because the team and its extended family are.

I stayed hours after my shoot, astonished by the realization that Illustrado is doing the 300 against a multitude of storms and tempests, highlighting other people’s achievements while remaining in the background without conceit, and not for any other reasons, but that it is worth doing it.

I left. Not right on the dot. But my thoughtful experience made it even more magical. Even more surreal.

DR. REX VENARD BACARRA

Professor of Philosophy at the American College of Dubai, multi-awarded educator RexVenard Bacarra says of himself – “I may be bad in folding a fitted sheet and horrible in parallel parking.  But, I am excellent in chewing the maggots of the philosophical universe.  Maybe…”  True to form, this modern-day ‘Filosopo Tasio” shares with us his thoughts on a myriad of relevant topics – this time, shedding light on the team and the intentions behind the much-celebrated Illustrado initiative.  Follow Dr. Rex Bacarra on Twitter: @rexbacarra

CREDITS:

Team Illustrado (L-R): Paolo Gabriel (Content Associate), Rony Aquino (Community Mgr), Lalaine Chu-Benitez (Editor-in-Chief), Ramon Benitez (Creative Director), Alwee Villarosa (Features Editor), Antonino Benitez (Content).

Photo by Jef Anog; Shot at Vast Vogue Studio – Dubai
Stylists: Metrosapiense – Khel Recuenco and Ivan Cabatit; Gweys Soriano; Hair, Make-Up and Grooming: Mau Pinodena IV; Lalaine’s Custom Dress: Angel Villiar de Jesus – Marocha-Ricci, Dubai

Read more about the Illustrado 300

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Watch the Live Reveal of the 300!

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Global Green Architect & Humanitarian

Very few would be able to achieve what he has accomplished in their entire lifetime. And an even rarer set could say that they have put their own stamp across 40 countries in the world, including the planning of the city of Dubai.  But legendary architect, urban planner, and humanitarian Felino “Jun” Palafox Jr. takes it all in stride with the utmost gratefulness.

“I was very fortunate to lead, coordinate, and be involved in projects across 40 countries in the built environment through architecture, urban planning, master planning, urban design, and environmental planning, among others in our country, Dubai, and the rest of the Gulf.” He says. “The buildings, cities, and communities I have planned and designed and help develop are sustainable, resilient, connected, walkable, bikeable, safe, convenient, cross-income and cross-generational that integrate places to live, work, shop, dine, and worship with healthcare and wellness centers with some 24-hour cycle activity centers.”

As part of his lasting legacy, he shares his learnings through publishing books, over 700 articles, as well as doing lectures, presentations, and speeches, both locally and internationally.

An architect for humanity who has also championed the creation of dwellings for the underprivileged around the globe, he hopes to be remembered as a Global Green Architect.  He says. “One of my key principles is people first or social equity followed by planet earth or the environment; profit or economic prosperity; and then culture, history or heritage, and inter-faith spirituality. Every project I worked on should be Pro Deo, Patria et Terra — for God, Country, and Planet Earth.”

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

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Felino Jun Palafox Jr.

Architect, Urban Planner, Humanitarian

Photo by Andre Son

“Plan and design a garden city out of the desert.  A pacesetter city that will lead, and not be led.” In 1977 architect and urban planner Felino ‘Jun’ Palafox, Jr. and his team were given that mandate by the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum of this flourishing city by the creek.  Over forty years on, Dubai, the place that he helped built stands proud as one of most illustrious and progressive places in the world.

Very few men have the honor of being a part of planning and building something as exceptionally significant as a city that is admired across the globe. Palafox is one of those rare people.  Handpicked and appointed as Senior Planner under the Dubai Municipality back in the 70s, at 27 he was the youngest and the only Southeast Asian member of the multidisciplinary international team of architects, planners, engineers, landscape architects, and designers, tasked with the urban planning, architecture, and environmental design of Dubai.

After leaving the city in the ‘80s, he together with the team he formed under Palafox Architecture and Palafox Associates (PALAFOX), have gone on to do projects in 40 countries: 1,557 projects for architecture and design of 14 million square meters of building floor area, and 27 billion square meters of planning for the past 29 years.   Through the years, he also kept coming back to Dubai to do architecture and master planning projects, while also working for the SM Group and the Ayala Corporation.  Currently, among their other projects elsewhere in the world, the Palafox team are planning and designing a hotel mixed-use project in Dubai. Palafox was also a speaker at the international conference of the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), held in Dubai last October 2018.

He shares of his special connection to the city, “Every time I go back here, I am so inspired and grateful that I was part of the urban planning and architecture of Dubai. There is so much “psychic income.” I shared my education, experience, and expertise. Today, I go to Dubai to share and learn.”

Professional and commercial successes aside, Palafox is a fervent humanitarian. Working with organizations Gawad Kalinga, Urban Poor Assoicates, Tzu Chi Foundation among others, he and his team help build dwellings in the Philippines and abroad for typhoon and earthquake-stricken communities, as well as for indigenous people and informal settlers.  This, among his other advocacy works are part of what he calls “architecture for humanity” – in essence providing architectural solutions for humanitarian crises.

Espousing the concept of “psychic and/or spiritual income” as something more fulfilling than just monetary rewards, Palafox shares, “We show our gratitude to the Chief Creator by using education, expertise, and experience towards the good stewardship of His blessings.”

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

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Social Entrepreneur, Global Changemaker

Illac Diaz, through Liter of Light, the first global Filipino NGO which he has founded, has brought light to millions of poor families across the globe, and in doing so has also advocated a more progressive narrative for the Filipino people – that of a benefactor nation well capable to contribute solutions to the problems of the world.

A social entrepreneur and campaigner for progress, Illac has developed sustainable technology, bringing solar – powered illumination to impoverished families with little or no access to electricity. His grass roots platform which has hubs in 30 countries, and is supported by some 1,400 volunteers has lighted some 1.5 million homes across the world.   Liter of Lights’ open source technology has been recognized by the United Nations and is also used in some UNHCR camps.  The foundation has also received the St. Andrews Prize for the Environment (2016) and the World Habitat Award (2014-2015).  In the UAE, Illac has received the Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP) in 2015 and facilitated a world record ‘The Largest Environmental Sustainability Lesson’ with the support of the ZFEP.  He is set to showcase Liter of Light’s initiatives at the Dubai Expo 2020 as one of the grant recipients whose work will be showcased at the landmark event.

From creating sustainable solutions to igniting a worldwide movement, Illac Diaz tirelessly works to help the impoverished while demonstrating that the Philippines is an innovative nation, and its people, a globally competitive force that can lead.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

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Illac Diaz – 100MIFG 2019

A campaigner to bring a better life to the poor of the world, Illac Diaz has quite literally become the bringer of light not only to regions across the Philippines but to communities across the globe. Through his global grassroots movement, Liter of Light, he has brought simple and sustainable technology providing solar-powered illumination to impoverished families with little to no access to electricity.

Illac’s work has inspired and united an international group of volunteers which helped him install over 350,000 recycled bottle lights in more than 15 countries, since 2011. Drawing towards the final quarter of 2018, he began his most significant international journey called the ‘Voyage of Light.’ Backed by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, it is the largest Filipino–led global campaign, set to travel across the seas to countries in the Asia Pacific, Africa, and South America in collaboration with the Japanese organization, Peace Boat.

Among his other notable endeavors, Illac’s project won the Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP) in 2015. With the support of the ZFEP, he also set the world record for the ‘Largest Environmental Sustainability Lesson.’ The project done in collaboration with hundreds of young students in the UAE  produced a solar portrait for the Year of Zayed utilizing over 1400 solar lanterns.  Filipinos in the UAE have even more cause to celebrate Illac’s work which is slated to be showcased independently during the landmark Dubai Expo2020 event.

A shining beacon for the rest of the world, Illac thoughtfully, but also simply summarizes his sentiments behind his advocacy. “With great privilege comes great responsibility.  And I was living too well when so many people were not.  So, I started simplifying what I want for myself, because I really didn’t need much, and started focusing on really sharing what I had.”

Read more about Illac Diaz on Illustrado Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

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Fashion Photographer

Meticulous and exacting – these two words describe fashion photographer Jef Anog’s work ethos that allows him to churn out some of the industry’s most fabulous and polished imagery.

With his relentless passion for capturing perfect images gaining the trust of a distinguished list of clients in recent years, Jef has done projects for prestigious couture houses of Michael Cinco, Ezra Santos, Mona Al Mansouri and Furne One.  He has also done commercial work for the Apparel Group and EMAAR, and Arab celebrities like Joumana Murad and Halema Boland, among many other names within the region, while his fashion editorials have been featured in numerous leading international glossies in Paris, Singapore, Canada, and the Philippines.

“I believe that every Filipino should elevate their career through their passion,” he says. “Your passions are your legacy. Passion comes from an outpouring of the interests and ideas that make a difference in your life. Finding and pursuing your passion allows you to see your destiny clearly. No one succeeds on their own. You have to bring on your talent to take tasks off your hands so you can actually grow.”

He believes his gift for taking good photographs was given not just for himself but to help those around him. “This brings a tremendous sense of fulfillment,” Jef shares.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

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Scientist

Internationally-renowned scientist Dr. Michael Purugganan has contributed to the global pool of knowledge, especially in the area of plant molecular evolution and genomics.  His work has also become a valuable resource for the UAE to help in the improvement and preservation of one of the region’s most important plant species – the date palm.

A leading global authority in the field, Michael is the Co-Director for the Center for Genomics and Systems Biology at the New York University (NYU) in Abu Dhabi.  There he heads a group of scientists who study palm varieties—from the origin, evolution up to their genetic makeup. His work was recognized by the UAE government earning him the Khalifa International Date Palm Award in 2015.  Michael also serves as the Dean for Science at the NYU’s main campus in New York and has published over 130 research papers contributing to global scientific knowledge.

Michael, who graduated from the University of the Philippines in Diliman and earned his Masters at Columbia University and the University of Georgia, is a representation of virtuosity in any field, as well as the ability of the Filipino mind to compete and contribute at a global level.  He believes in always setting challenging benchmarks in order to excel.  He remarks, “We should keep ourselves to a high standard of excellence in whatever we do.  We should always aspire to be the best, not because of what others think, but for our own satisfaction.”

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

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Dr. Michael Purugganan

Scientist

Find ways of enhancing the region’s most important and most prolific plant – the date palm, that’s Dr. Michael Purugganan’s mandate in the UAE capital.  “Our date palm genome project at NYU Abu Dhabi has moved into a new phase with exciting new projects.  We are about to announce a new discovery about North African dates like the Medjool dates, as well as new genes we have found. My research laboratory is also starting new collaborations here in the UAE as well as in France and Saudi Arabia,” enthused the globally renowned biologist.

A leading figure in global genetic research, specifically in plant molecular evolution and genomics, Dr. Michael Purugganan has published over 130 research papers contributing a wealth of knowledge to the field of science. Shuttling between New York, where he is Dean for Science at New York University, and Abu Dhabi where he runs one of his laboratories, his work in the emirates has earned him the Khalifa International Date Palm Award, bestowed on him by His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan in 2015.

As a leader in his field, he emphasizes the perseverance and excellence as the cornerstones for success, “We should keep ourselves to a high standard of excellence in whatever we do.  We should always aspire to be the best, not because of what others think, but for our satisfaction.”

He adds, “You have to keep your eyes focused on the future and overcome any obstacles in your way.  You have to learn to pick yourself up when you have been dealt with a setback.  Someone told me once that success is a marathon, not a sprint.  You have to keep looking forward.”

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

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Poet

Each year is increasingly monumental for poet and writer Danabelle Gutierrez. 2019 saw her working with big names in the industry, with performances at the Emirates Airlines Festival of Literature, the Illustrado Day of Sisterhood, Sikka Art Fair, and a collaboration with Hyku Desesto on a Vogue Arabia project – in which her “Unbridled” poem was recited by singer Ciara. An established poet, author, and spoken word artist, Danabelle’s works have also been published in NYU Abu Dhabi’s Journal of Arts & Humanities.

She was awarded as Film Ambassador by the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and also as the as Best Writer at Rooftop Rhythms in Abu Dhabi.

Danabelle is not one who stops at recognition. Hers is a character that is passionate, yearning for knowledge, and continue doing good work and inspire others do excel as well.  With a third book in the works, she says, “I’m still learning and refining my craft, and there’s still a lot of work that I want to create. I would like to think that my contribution if anything is that I have been able to inspire others to show up and do the work — to create or to perform.”

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

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Danabelle Gutierrez

Poet, Writer

Being asked to write and perform at the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s first anniversary was just the ‘icing on the cake’ of an exceptional year for artist Danabelle Gutierrez.  With her continued push to hone her craft, she has become one of the emirate’s foremost homegrown talents in the arts.

Two thousand eighteen was a very prolific year for Danabelle.  The poetry collective she founded with Christine-Jean Blain and Akousa Fox, performed “We Sat in Silence” at Sikka 18 – a theatrical reading with songs and poetry centered on issues that are deemed taboo for women.  She also won the best actress award at Emirates Short Film Festival for her role in Melon Quinzon Perez’s “The Girl Next Door.” In September, she was awarded by the Filipina Women’s Council as one of the most influential Filipina emerging leaders across the world and December saw her reading at Hekayah, at the NYU in Abu Dhabi.  To top that, she is currently working on her third book.

Standing tall amidst the rising stars of the Middle East, Danabelle approaches her art with a professional edge and a lot of common sense. “Be a professional – even in the small things.  It will speak volumes about your work ethic. Communicate well. Your grammar doesn’t have to be impeccable nor your vocabulary as large, though admittedly, it does help. What’s important is that your point comes across. So, speak up, but also listen. Be kind. If you can’t be anything else, at the very least, be kind to the people around you, yes, but also to yourself.”

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

Growing up, Danabelle Gutierrez didn’t have any prominent Filipina authors to look up to. And while she doesn’t think her work is important or that she is important enough to be looked up to, she thinks that what she offers people is a certain form of brazenness – in that her mere act trying to do the work, and putting the work out there where people get to see it – gets them to think, “Oh well, if she can do it, then I can too.”

“I think, sometimes mere completion is an accomplishment,” she says. “To be an artist is to be haunted by ideas and be led by inspiration. However, sometimes inspiration leads us deep into the woods and the brazen writers that we are, we participate, we go, and we follow inspiration. But then, inspiration leaves us right in the middle of the journey, and it’s up to us to find our way through. Hoping that, at some point, inspiration will come back and hold our hand and help us complete the work. And you know, we’re lucky if we even make it out of the woods alive, empty handed, but alive. Of course, luckier still, if we get out of the woods with a great piece of art.”

Danabelle who has been regularly featured as author/poet at the prestigious Emirates Lit Fest in recent years is the author of two highly-acclaimed poetry books:  “I Long to be the River.” published in 2014, and “& Until the Dreams Come” published in September 2015.  She was also awarded “Best Actress”  at the Emirates Short Film Festival 2017.

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Photography by: Alex Callueng

Illustrado 100 was made possible by sponsors: Giordano, Liali Jewellery, Mitsubishi UAE- Al Habtoor Motors, Michael Cinco Couture, Mapúa Institute of Technology, Centro – Amwaj Rotana Hotel , Max’s Restaurant Middle East and GVER – Your Friendly MarketPlace for Sharing

Co-Sponsors: Herschel Supply Co., Rove Hotels, The Medical City – Dubai , Filipino Institute UAE, MPQ Tourism, JAMES Travel and Tours Dubai, Off the Hook Seafood Restaurant, The Original Barrio Fiesta Restaurant – Dubai and Tapa King UAE.

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Lawyer

 Atty. Barney Almazar is a high calibre international corporate lawyer and a passionate campaigner for the improvement of the lives of Overseas Filipinos.

A recipient of a TOYM (Ten Outstanding Young Men) award in 2015, and the Asian Legal Business Young Lawyer of the Year for the Philippines award in 2016, and in South East Asia in 2017, his accolades speak louder than words. Recently, he facilitated the USD 125 million acquisition of a UAE-based fintech company by a Philippine investment group.  He also represents a syndicate of investors in the negotiation of founder shares in a retail strategic planning firm, operating in New York, London, Sao Paulo, Dubai and Berlin. Last year, he opened an office in Lisbon catering to European venture, while his offices in the UAE and Philippines continue to facilitate trade deals across the Middle East and South East Asia.

Moreover, he has been providing legal assistance to Philippine missions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, assisting distressed Filipinos for the last six years, and his book, “The Essential OFW Guide to the UAE” has become a valuable resource for the community.

Atty. Barney shares, “In our country, human labor is considered an ‘export commodity’, a means to an end for the Filipinos around the world. This is why for the past 7 years, I have devoted my practice to bringing foreign investments to the Philippines, promoting our brands in the Middle East, creating more jobs back home.”  He adds, “My ultimate wish is for us to be competitive with the rest of the world, so that our government need not restrict the mobility of OFs.  Leaving the Philippines to work abroad is a personal choice, not a necessity.”

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

Barney Almazar Esq.

Advocate

Despite his success as a Corporate Lawyer, Barney Almazar has taken upon himself the daunting task of helping out the UAEs Filipino community, an advocacy close to his heart while serving a growing international clientele. Well-reputed for handling the portfolios of some high-net-worth individuals across the Middle East oil and gas sector, as well as Southeast Asia, he also led the US$125 million Filipino acquisition of a UAE company, further cementing the Filipino presence in the international market. Thomson Reuter’s Asian Legal Business List also hailed Barney as one of the Top 40 Young Lawyers in Asia.  And through all this, this lawyer also launched the 2^nd edition ‘The Essential OFW Guide to UAE,’ and expanded his local legal aid clinics and interactive touch screen legal portals across the emirates.

“A well trained and educated person puts the nation in the right direction for nation-building. As a lawyer, I play the role of educating minds to achieve their dreams and become future agents of change in our country” Barney quotes.

His dedication, integrity and work ethic have made him stand out among the trailblazers and role models of today’s Filipino youth. He is renowned as a modern day hero, receiving recognition from far and wide. But for Barney, despite all the adornments and titles, the simple and pure joy of seeing a Filipino reunited with their family is enough to fuel his advocacy for kindness.

“Whether I am wearing my corporate hat or lawyer’s hat, I believe it is the kindness and looking after each other’s welfare that keeps humanity alive.”

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

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Corporate Governance & Sustainable Finance Expert

When talking about accomplishments, Nick Nadal will not run out of things to share.  But he is a man who would rather not discuss himself. A conversation with him will just be about the causes he’s involved with and how this can benefit many.

A corporate expert who works for the government of Dubai, specifically the Dubai Sustainable Finance Working Group, he is one of the key persons behind making the emirate a global player in sustainable finance. He does this while working on advancing good governance practices in regional organizations, addressing boards and decision-makers, framing decisions related to environmental responsibility, fairness to labor and community, company stewardship, and relationship to society, among others.  He also has set-up a regional think tank on corporate governance driving research, company engagements, and program development.

With all that he has learned through the years serving various causes, Nick encourages Filipinos to elevate themselves by embracing the greater community that they belong in. “We need to realize that human dignity, environmental responsibility, and the general need to be kind transcend our communities, and that despite differences in geographies, in how each one of us were raised, in our education, and in our general outlook in life, all of us have much more in common than there are differences. So, let’s all work to elevate the place we live, work, and play, by so doing, we also elevate our communities and ourselves.”

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

NICK NADAL

Advisor at the Executive Council, Government of Dubai

Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno

Most often in modern society, those who deserve recognition are the ones who desire it the least. Such is the case with the elusive Nick Nadal – a corporate governance and policy-making powerhouse who, in his capacity as Advisor at the Executive Council of the Government of Dubai, is quite possibly the most influential Filipino in the UAE outside of public office.

Nick’s work is so important, most of it is unprintable – which is no skin off of his nose, as he is always very hesitant to participate in any conversation about his immense achievements in the region. That’s just how Nick rolls: he gets the job done, and then he lets the results speak for themselves. And what amazing things this man has been ticking off his to-do list. Case in point: he is part of the core team that helped develop, articulate, cascade, and implement arguably one of the UAE’s more consequential government plans, particularly in the area of government services improvement and innovation, urban governance, and affordable housing. Through a corporate governance institute that he helped set up in the UAE a decade ago, he spearheaded the enhancements of a number of initiatives related to advocating for greater gender diversity in the workplace, thereby helping put more women in positions of top management decision-making and innovation-enabling.

But perhaps what’s really impressive about Nick is how he manages to remain resolutely grounded and centered despite his sky-high list of accomplishments and frenetic whirlwind of responsibilities. In lieu of his many triumphs in the corporate and government sector, he would much rather talk about the fancy raclette that he whips out during dinner parties at home, or how he – above and beyond being one of the most influential Filipinos in the Gulf – is first and foremost a loving son, a loyal friend, and a dutiful husband.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:

Special thanks to Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2016 sponsors – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

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Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Bong Guerrero – Trailblazer

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Izhcka Zeta –Tastemaker

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Fashion Designer

The beauty of fashion is the fact that it is constantly evolving in ways that are fresh and unprecedented. And to keep up with the industry’s unwavering pulse is to strike a balance between reinvention and one’s own design DNA. Leading fashion figure in the Middle East Ezra Santos, of Ezra Couture, has never ceased to amaze both loyal clientele and fashion critics each season.

Internationally recognized, he has showcased breathtaking couture collections through the years on runways from Dubai, to New York, to Harbin, China. As he continues to design for an elite clientele that consists of A-list celebrities and royals, Ezra lives by the simple yet poignant mantra that is: “One must innovate to simply exist.”

Ezra’s signature style spells timeless elegance, femininity, and drama. In 2019, his collection ‘Looking through the Eyes of Love,’ which graced the runway at Fashion Forward Dubai’s October edition, showcased a new facet of Ezra’s design sensibility – modern spun with an edgy neoclassical twist. Paying homage to Arabic women and the region’s distinct cultural aesthetic, the collection was received with immense acclaim.   Another testament to Ezra’s brilliance in drawing inspiration from culture is his take on traditional Philippine fashion elements and techniques in recent years.  He has created several collections with pieces based on the terno as well as classic weaving, reinterpreted into statement dresses and gowns for contemporary couture-wearers.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

Ezra Santos

Fashion Designer

Fresh from his latest runway conquest at Harbin Fashion Week in China this January 2019, where he has represented both the UAE and the Philippines, Ezra Santos’ star continues to shine brightly as one of the most iconic Filipino designers of our generation.

With his position as a leading designer in the couture world in the Middle East and in the Philippines tightly-secured, Ezra’s demeanor, much like most of his designs, is luxuriously elegant, but distinctively effortless.

And his body of work has definitely earned his right of place.  Growing from strength to strength allowing him to make inroads even in other parts of the world including the US, Ezra maintains a steady clientele of royals, the elite, and A-listers.  Furthermore, his sharp acumen for innovation enabling him to churn out his unique fashion perspective at every turn has also kept his atelier as one of the wildly successful homegrown fashion businesses of Dubai.  Ezra shares as a matter-of-fact, “Challenges in the couture world are an understatement. This is why we always continue to observe the trend and enhance it through our own approach. One must innovate to exist.” He adds, “Innovation nowadays has been as fast as the clock ticks. One must thrive to improve for the better and create self-sufficient works that supersede mediocrity.”

Ezra’s excellent discipline in his field works in synergy with his unwavering determination, “Through persistence, nothing is unachievable; the same goes as if you do not believe your current condition could be better, motivation will be rare too.”

Believing in the power of the divine which he credits for his many triumphs and rising influence in the world, Ezra shares his perennial guiding light to his endeavors, “Prayers. Nothing in Ezra Couture or even in my personal life could possibly exist if not with prayers.  This has been a powerful tool that I could boldly share with others.  I also encourage others not to lose even a strand of hope in any situation.   Fashion trends, style choices, and collections come and go, but this one thing remains unmoved.”

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Ezra Santos

In recent years, the contemporary incarnation of Filipiniana style had made its way to the illustrious runways of the US, Asia and the Middle East.  Thanks to Ezra Santos, a true modern day champion of the unique Filipino aesthetic, our fashion roots have been masterfully translated to the now, and have proven to be universally appealing, and indeed, both haute and hot.

By delving into what Philippine style can offer to the world, Ezra has also brought a new edge to the couture scene, putting to the fore unique silhouettes, ethnic materials, and techniques that are at once historical and fresh for an international audience.  Always driven by the quest for excellence, he shares, “Bring something new and reinforce it to the fashion world. Become an untradeable signature for every single masterpiece.”

Known to dress some of the most glamorous women from the royal, elite and celebrity circles from the Middle East to Hollywood, with his distinctively elegant pieces the designer swears by the value of determination, talent, and a positive outlook.  Ezra remarks, “More than just the hard work, I am certain about perseverance.   Moving forward with passion in everything that I do, sums up to perseverance.  He adds, “Attitude is essential.  Whatever comes your way, your approach to every situation matters. Be it good or bad situation; this is the one thing that will keep you moving.

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Photography by: Rozen Antonio

Illustrado 100 was made possible by sponsors: Giordano, Liali Jewellery, Mitsubishi UAE- Al Habtoor Motors, Michael Cinco Couture, Mapúa Institute of Technology, Centro – Amwaj Rotana Hotel , Max’s Restaurant Middle East and GVER – Your Friendly MarketPlace for Sharing

Co-Sponsors: Herschel Supply Co., Rove Hotels, The Medical City – Dubai , Filipino Institute UAE, MPQ Tourism, JAMES Travel and Tours Dubai, Off the Hook Seafood Restaurant, The Original Barrio Fiesta Restaurant – Dubai and Tapa King UAE. 

Read more Illustrado 100 on www.illustradolife.com

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The forum, entitled PHILx, featured a stellar list of speakers including Giordano Middle East CEO and Managing Director Ishwar Chugani, Owner of Kubyertos Cuisine and Kiesha Beauty Lounge Gina Valbuena, and International Fashion Icon and Designer Ezra Santos.

Philippine Consul General Paul Cortes opened the program by welcoming the multinational set of guests, many of whom were there at the Philippine Consulate in Dubai for the first time. Cortes shared some of the projects that he undertook in service of the Filipino business community and expressed his hopes that the initiatives would continue long after his official term of service in the UAE ends. It was previously announced that the Consul General has been recently promoted as Assistant Secretary for Migrant Workers and would be returning to Manila in November.

SandBox Middle East CEO Lito German then delivered his keynote address, which included his personal experience moving from the automotive industry to the import and distribution business. German questioned why he was often the first Filipino in the boardrooms of the multinational companies he worked for and challenged other businessmen who have climbed the corporate ladder to help other Filipinos follow their path.

Gina Valbuena, on the other hand, shared her inspiring journey from employee to entrepreneur, while Ishwar Chugani shared some tips on how to cultivate a people-focused corporate culture. Ezra Santos told the story of his transformation and growth from being an artist and designer to being a well-rounded business owner.

One of the highlights of the event was a touching tribute to Consul General Paul Cortes, in acknowledgement of his countless achievements as Head of the Philippine mission in Dubai and the neighbouring Northern Emirates for the past six years. The tribute was organized by the management board of SandBox Middle East led by CEO Lito German and COO Mark Mauricio.

Entertainment for the evening was performed by the Filipina diva and songstress, Shanice Michaels, who regaled the audience with jazz hits, as well as an impactful and memorable rendition of the Philippine National Anthem.

The event was well attended by an international group of businessmen from various industries such as Retail, Manufacturing, Finance, and F&B. It likewise aligned with the aims of the Expo 2020 in Dubai to increase foreign investments into the UAE and spur further economic growth in the region.

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