Styling: Charmaine Palermo and Vanessa Johnson of Monsters Production

Make-Up: Omar Ermita for Shu Uemura

Hair: George Aliben for Kiehl’s Stylist Series

Models: Catriona Gray of IM Agency and Mark McMahon of Elite Agency Manila

The contemporary Filipino fashion perspective –

From the terno to the barong, to ethnic accoutrements of bamboo and capiz, to tribal beads and other native nuances, spring distinctively strong silhouettes and stylish forms executed in rich jusi piña, abaca and indigenous materials.

It’s Moda Filipiniana reincarnated with a distinctively contemporary attitude.

Filipino Fashion: Neo Filipino

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The post Filipino Fashion: Neo Filipino appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Fashion Catalyst 

Bong Guerrero came to the UAE in 1990 with promising potential and an appetite to develop great projects and brands. He founded his first events company in 1999, initially producing and managing corporate events, product launches, as well as projects that helped catalyze the now booming fashion scene in Dubai. Today, Bong is the Managing Partner of BRAG – a prominent events agency in the region that also provides creative services – and CEO of Fashion Forward Dubai (FFWD) – the region’s seasonal landmark fashion event showcasing the industry’s best designers and creatives.

Having worked alongside an impressive roster of high-profile clients like Kenzo, Jimmy Choo, Mercedes Benz, Netflix, as well as the best fashion houses in the region and beyond, Bong has developed an impressive body of work that will undeniably continue to grow and diversify. Some of the recent standout events organized by BRAG include Enrique Iglesias @ The Pointe, Dua Lipa @ The Pointe, and WASLA Music Festival 2019. Bong has also steered FFWD into the direction of managing turnkey events for the fashion, beauty, and luxury industries, as well as e-commerce – allowing fashion enthusiasts to buy clothes straight off the runway.

Turning every challenging circumstance into a fruitful opportunity, Bong, like most entrepreneurs, has experienced the paralyzing fear of projects not succeeding – but has not let this fear inhibit him in any of his undertakings. He expresses that, despite the roadblocks along the way, when you have a great team, good ethics, and a focused vision that inspires you to work hard, then one can do anything.

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

Bong Guerrero – Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

Entrepreneur

Nobody has probably done anything as impactful for the fashion industry in the UAE, and perhaps even the entire region, as much as society icon Bong Guerrero.  Widely acknowledged as ‘the’ country’s fashion catalyst – Bong’s work as CEO & Co-founder of FFWD (Fashion Forward) has catapulted Dubai into global consciousness as the region’s fashion capital.  FFWD has provided a platform to bolster homegrown brands and has brought international industry leaders, talents, and media into the City of Gold to what has become the region’s definitive seasonal fashion event.  As Managing Partner of BRAG, he has also been at the forefront of significant events for luxury brands around the country.

Recognized as one of Esquire Magazine Middle East’s 100 in 2018, Bong shares of 2018, “The year has been very exciting on many levels. BRAG has continued its focus on large-scale community events as well as other corporate events, while FFWD has uniquely positioned itself to focus on providing streamlined turnkey event solutions for the fashion, beauty, and luxury industries in Dubai and the Middle East. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, Jimmy Choo, YSL Beauty, Kenzo, Farfetch, NARS, Dolce & Gabbana among others are some of the clients that we have created experiences for in the last year.  Moving ahead, we plan to continue to expand this portfolio as well as come back with some exciting plans for Fashion Forward.”

Beyond the glamour of Dubai’s style and luxe world, Bong believes in optimist and goodness as critical traits that allow one to get ahead.  He remarks, “Positivity begets positivity. I have always believed in turning any challenging situation into an opportunity, by focusing on the good that may come out of it. All is well, that ends well.  This in addition to being a fundamentally good person, and most importantly doing your work with authenticity, love, and passion.”

“I would like to remind people to focus on doing the work that they enjoy – when you love what you do, you will succeed at it – and when you succeed at it, you will love it even more. Challenges are inevitable, but it’s how you react to them that will determine the end result. It’s a virtuous circle of positivity.”

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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 2017: Bong Guerrero – Entrepreneur and Industry Catalyst.

A true Dubai society icon, entrepreneur, and fashion industry catalyst Bong Guerrero underlines happiness as a state of mind that is central to his success.  “For me, it’s always important to be happy.  To live simply.  I’m quite simple in my way of living.  I don’t need much.  As long as I’m happy with what I’m doing, who I’m with, the people I interact with, and I get a lot of joy in my work, that’s what’s important.”

And ‘simple’ could easily be the uber understatement of the year when speaking about the man’s accomplishments which have made an indelible mark and steered the trajectory of the local fashion industry to international heights.  As Co-Founder of FFWD and Brag Events, Bong has been at the helm not only of the definitive seasonal style event in the UAE which has put the Middle East in the global fashion map.  He was also part of the beginnings of the careers of several elite designers including Furne One, Ezra Santos, and Rami Al Ali, among others.  The fact that his projects are well known in the fields of luxury and corporate events is mere icing on the cake.

Still, despite being the leading man in the glamorous world he moves in, Bongs shares that his true vocation lies in being a creative force behind the events that brought out the finest in people. He says that his upbringing in Ateneo de Manila has deeply ingrained in him the value of living for others.  He shares, “Be a man for others.  Because when you do good things for others, it always comes back to you.”

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. 

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2016: Bong Guerrero, Trailblazer

 BONG GUERRERO

Founder and CEO – Fashion Forward (FFWD); Managing Partner at Brag Events

As Founder and CEO of Fashion Forward (FFWD) – Dubai’s most prestigious fashion industry event, and Managing Partner at Brag Events, the Alpha male of the Dubai style scene, Bong Guerrero has not only carved a name for himself as an entrepreneur: he has transformed himself into a true society icon. With over 25 years of experience in the Gulf, Bong’s expertise in the field of events management, concert production, and fashion is difficult to match. And in 2016, he helped orchestrate a major evolution in the Fashion Forward brand – moving the venue of the shows from Madinat, Jumeirah to d3. More than just a change of space, the move signifies an enhanced focus on marrying the concept of sustainability with the fashion industry.

In an earlier interview with Illustrado, this notable Filipino sums up his simple philosophy, “I enjoy the work that I do. I truly love what I do, and I’m very passionate about what I do. I’d like to think that [passion] brings out some kind of creativity.”

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 2015: Bong Guerrero – Dubai’s Fashion Catalyst

Bong Guerrero – Photo by Eros Goze

Bong Guerrero has succeeded in an area where so many have tried and failed in previous years.

As Founder and CEO of Brag Events – creators of Fashion Forward, he has successfully facilitated Dubai’s aspiration to build a credible fashion industry event that is not only supported by local and regional businesses, but is also respected by its other stakeholders – from the media to buyers, to the discerning and voracious fashion crowd in the country.

Having spent 25 years in the country, his local history can and will always be connected to the growth of fashion and the fashionable crowd in the emirates. From heading one of the first prestigious couture houses in Dubai – Ghanati – the birthplace of quite a few of the leading haute couture designers, to being an event organizer par excellence managing glamorous projects for international brands and practically starting up the city’s clubbing culture, Bong has always been surrounded by the movers and shakers, socialites, business magnates and royalty.

His engagement with fashion seem to have escalated when he organized the first game-changing runway show of high street brand Splash in 2007 – something totally unheard of back in the day. From then on, there was no turning back. After 15 fashion shows for Splash, numerous commercial events for an enviable roster of international luxury brands, and the birth of Fashion Forward now on its 6^th season back in 2013, Bong’s reputation as Dubai’s veritable fashion catalyst has been cemented.

Indeed, Bong Guerrero’s shift from legendary party ‘machinator’ to the brains and brawn behind the definitive fashion platform for Dubai and the entire Middle East was not only a much needed shot in the arm to the previously flailing niche, but also a spectacular feat of professional success. In an earlier interview with Illustrado, this notable Filipino sums up his simple philosophy, “I enjoy the work that I do. I truly love what I do, and I’m very passionate about what I do. I’d like to think that [passion] brings out some kind of creativity.”

Related Post:

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Izhcka Zeta –Tastemaker

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Mercedes Cabral – Trailblazer

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Dr. Becky Desiderio – Trailblazer

Bong Guerrero – The Elusive Life of the Party

Profile published Illustrado Magazine 2010,  Story by Sherry Tenorio

His name probably doesn’t ring a bell.  That is, if you’re just a regular Joe or a plain Jane – an “anonymous” in the city of gold’s glitzy party scene.  He’s made quite a reputation in privileged circles by being at the heart of the emirates’ glamorous events – creator, instigator and life of the party all at once, constantly surrounded by Dubai’s beautiful and influential A-listers.  As a matter of fact, sans exaggeration, you’ve got to be somebody special if you are part of the life of a certain Bong Guerrero.

Bong Guerrero cuts an image of quiet self-assurance in the midst of the “bling” and bacchanalian euphoria that usually characterizes his legendary events.  The man has quite a presence, one that is relaxed and confidently devoid of pretense – particularly refreshing especially in a world where the well-heeled and powerful coexist with poseurs, social climbers, aspiring models, the fickle fashion crowd, et al.  You would know it when Bong is running the show, because there would always be that perceptible slight shift of gravity when he appears. Though there is a price to be paid for being a significant player in such rarefied field. It is entirely conceivable why people have a number of things to say about who he is – without really knowing what he’s all about.

Bong Guerrero lives a covetable life – a life that is one huge party. As an events guru, he personifies a glamorous existence where five star hotels, champagne and fancy cars are just plain accessories. He is surrounded and loved by shakers and movers, beautiful models and socialites, movie stars and celebrities, business icons and royalty. Because of his exposure in Dubai’s social scene and his closeness to a number of influential and A-list personalities, Bong’s life has become very public to many eyes.

“I was very exposed, especially when I was doing the ‘Bong!’ parties,” he admits. “I was Mr. Party for almost three years,” he explains how people have come to know him through his exclusive guest-list entry parties – an elite concept he introduced to Dubai in 2004. His branded parties – named after how people would exaggeratedly call out his name – heated up the city’s social landscape, making him one of, if not THE, pioneer of Dubai’s clubbing scene.

If New York refers to Studio 54 as the golden days of partying, Dubai feels the same towards ‘Bong! Parties.’ “They always remember me with lots of fun and nostalgia. For a lot of people, those were the greatest parties Dubai ever had,” Bong says. ”I was a night owl then. I had an office that I never visited because I slept during the day and worked at night. I was out five times a week. I would bring DJs from Paris, London, Ibiza and we’d have fabulous parties,” he recounts.

Bong knew, however, that he cannot live on parties forever. After three years of late night gimmicks, Bong decided to move from that chapter in his life. “I woke up one day and realized I could not be doing this forever. Besides, the dynamics had changed. All of a sudden, having over 3,000 people in the event became a trend, which was not my kind of thing at all. Don’t get me wrong, I still know how to party, but I just thought it was quite too much. I can do that again but probably on limited editions only.”

The man took a few steps back from the social scene, although he never fully left. He shifted to corporate events, leveraging on the amazing roster of clients and contacts he always had. In fact, long before the legendary shindigs, Bong Guerrero was already respected in the events business particularly in terms of the live concerts, fashion shows and corporate affairs that he conceptualized and produced.

Bong’s epiphany on venturing into events management actually resulted from attending a poorly organized concert staged in Dubai sometime in ‘99. Bong admits that during that period, he was at the crossroads. From owning a perfumery-slash-fashion house for almost six years and stumbling into a momentary career on marketing building materials, Bong always knew that something was missing. He says with a smile, “While scratching my head thinking about what to do in with my career, I thought to myself, after watching the concert, that I can do this, I can do better than this.”

He then found himself flying to Manila and ended up bringing Side A and Gary Valenciano to Dubai. Concerts, one after the other, filled Bong’s busy calendar then.  But it was an invitation to organize the Dianoor Charity Fashion Show, the very first fashion show to be staged at the iconic Burj Al Arab in 2000, that marked his career as a definitive events manager. From then on, his strong portfolio grew to include prestigious clients like Motorola, Virgin Radio, Mini Cooper, Christie’s (auction), Dubai Properties, Pepsi, Puma, Chivas Regal, Rami Al Ali Couture, Aigner Munich, Diesel, Emaar, as well as Splash with their much-anticipated bi-annual fashion shows, to name a few. Bong attributes his success to – “Enjoying the work that I do. I truly love what I do, and I’m very passionate in what I do. I’d like to think that  [passion] brings out some kind of creativity.”

The post Bong Guerrero – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Pour home ou pour femme? Who gives a damn?

Photography: Glenn Peter Perez and Filbert Kung of Blackfox Photography

Model: Valerie Clacio Weigmann

Hair and Make-up: Georgina Desuasido

Styling: Ryuji Shiomitsu

Black cropped jacket by Tyler; black and white checkered polo shirt by Sam Kho; bow tie by Ryuji Shiomitsu; black stretch trousers by Seven For All Mankind; chunky heart stud earrings inlaid with brilliant cut diamonds by Naomi; layered silver chain necklace from AC +632; leather belt by Seven For All Mankind

Dotted fitted shirt from Barba by Vittorio Barba; single button jacket by Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy at ADORA; striped sailor shorts from Barba by Vittorio Barba; stockings from Tinsels by Christine Lam; wide rimmed Postillion Hat from AC+632; vintage Bausch & Lomb Sunglasses from AC+632; leather belt by Seven For All Mankind; leather umbrella by Jean Paul Gaultier from AC+632; lace pendant set in white gold, drop earrings in smoky topaz with brilliant cut and baguette diamonds and pear shape black diamond, and round cut black diamond ring with white brilliant cut diamonds set in white gold, all from Naomi.

Shopping Guide:

AC+632 – 2/F Greenbelt 5 Makati City. Email: ac632@pldtdsl.net

Aranaz – Rockwell Powerplant Mall and Greenbelt 5, Makati City

Adora – Greenbelt 5, Makati City

Christine Lam – email:caspe_tin@yahoo.com

Michael Antonio Shoes – SM Annex North EDSA, Anthem Rockwell Powerplant Mall and Anthem Greenbelt 5. Website: www.michaelantoniophils.multiply.com

Naomi Jewelry – 2/F Building B, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. Tel. (+63 2) 636-0446 or 632-9615. Email: naomijewelry@yahoo.com Website: www.naomi.com.ph

Sam Kho – 50^th Avenue Robinson’s Galleria.Website: www.urbanity.ph/scotts.html

Seven For All Mankind – Greenbelt 5 and Robinson’s Ermita.

Vittorio Barba – Barba, Greenbelt 5. www.vittorio.com.ph

Zxander Tan – Email: zxandertan@yahoo.com.ph

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Read more Fashion and Lifestyle on www.illustradolife.com

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We pay tribute to Rocky Gathercole, one the most unique and bold personalities in the world of Filipino Fashion, who has recently passed away.

They say there’s a very thin line that separates genius from insanity. And nowhere is the thinness of that line even more pronounced than in the case of FIlipino designer Rocky Gathercole.

During a virtual tête-à-tête with the avant gardiste, we unearthed not only the method in his madness, but also the proverbial can of worms… or two.

Story By Lalaine Chu-Benitez

Photo by Filbert Kung

Styling, Hair and Make-Up by: Ginno Alducente

Model: Jasmine Maierhofer

Experimental, unpredictable, explosive and quite simply – mad.   He, of the fantastical creations, whose muses include insect women, gaudy showgirls, and phantasmagoric goddesses who all exist in a warped intersection between total fantasy and hyper reality.   Rocky says on his take on style as-a-matter-of-factly, “My designs are, to put it simply, from my weirdest, wildest, wonderful world (www.rg) where I am the ultimate dictator of fashion. I have a gazillion idea in my mind and fantastical is probably the simplest adjective we can associate them with. The real word to appropriately describe them has yet to come from another universe!”  He adds, “More than anything, my primary concern, most often than not, is the availability of materials to be able to realize my vision.”

Rocky Gathercole in Illustrado Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf.

For those who wonder who on earth in their right mind could wear his creations, the designer explains his style with utmost clarity, “My creations are absolutely ‘not normal.’ I’m the first one who will attest to that. They’re not for the faint hearted. You don’t deserve to wear a Gathercole if you’re not very confident, bold and brave. The strong females of this age have quite a crystal clear idea of what and who they are as individuals.”

He continues to explain, “Maybe my translation of what is ‘wearable’ is still unfathomable to those who don’t realize that fashion is a form of self-expression. I wouldn’t have survived in this dog-eats-dog rag trade for more than two decades if Arab women didn’t find my dresses wearable. As for the less than extremely daring, I’ve got huge surprises coming soon so that others can also experience wearing my signature.”

In an industry where originality has been the topic of much heated debate and where, he is regarded as an outsider by those who look down upon his perplexing fashion sensibility and less than bourgeois ways, the designer has been the subject of hushed talks, sometimes even ridicule. Unfazed, however, Rocky Gathercole cuts the image of a singularly focused design savant determined to march to the beat of his own drum. 

He acknowledges, “When I was still starting to find my identity as a designer, Thierry Mugler influenced and inspired my creations.” But he adds with brutal frankness, “However, it is not the same as the definition of ‘inspired’ by some of my colleagues. I would take some details and add my own touch or come up with my version with respect to the resources at hand. I’ve always been consistent with my ‘insanity’ as a designer.”

Hammering on the point of contention in the current state of Philippine fashion, he emphasizes, “If you will copy, justify it – if you can’t be original. Not everyone is creative. Some may be lucky with their contacts and that’s why they are famous. But fame does not necessarily mean better in ideas than everyone else. People in fashion, particularly in Dubai, a place where I am so used to people’s peculiarities – are mostly self-proclaimed. Some are paying and are dying for image. Some are trying very hard, acting out an image.”

That comment is bound to sting and ruffle more than just a few feathers.  But then again Rocky Gathercole, who’s got both admirers and enemies in the industry, does not want to be known for his delicacy in delivering his ferociously candid take on things.

Asked about his thoughts on being labeled as a costume designer, he answers passionately, “My response to that, as a ‘costume designer,’ is that they don’t know what costumes really are! I will categorically say that all the designers in the Middle East have always been costume designers. Anyone who uses a glue gun, Elmer’s glue or E6000 is not a couture designer!”

He, then adds, “People hate me for being straightforward, but I just despise dishonest people. If I am not welcome in a group, it’s the least of my concerns. It’s just their way of unconsciously declaring that I am in a league of my own… I am my own group.”

 Truly, deciding how one feels about Rocky Gathercole, his creations, his out-of-the-fashion-mould persona and razor-sharp tongue that would always say what others won’t,  is by no means a simple task.  Still, between his two decades in the Middle East, his successful shows in Miami, New York and Los Angeles (where he received a standing ovation last year), the successful launch of his atelier in Manila, and just recently a lauded fashion show where he shared the stage with celebrated Manila designer Rajo Laurel, and received praise from the iconic Imelda Marcos herself – the irreverent fire-starter-slash-underdog seems to be having the last laugh.

Ecstatic after his latest runway conquest at the celebrity-studded opening of Wiltower in Manila, the designer gushed, “Sharing a stage with the great Rajo Laurel is another dream come true.  But seeing Madame Imelda Marcos clapping for my designs is something I have never imagined. Now, I can say that I’m already a full-fledged fashion designer!  Glory to God!”

So what’s next for the designer?  What else does he dream of? Rocky thoughtfully answers, “I actually don’t dream anymore. I’m living my life as an artist in progress. That’s how I am – who I am right now. People can say anything about me. I can deal with that now with maturity. I still have long way to go in this business. I can’t say what the future holds for me. I don’t want to know. I want to be surprised. And I promise you, everyone will definitely be surprised as well.”

Love him or hate him? The question is probably immaterial – because whichever you choose, the fact stands that you just can’t ignore Rocky Gathercole. 

And through all his trials and tribulations, the hushed talks and negative labels, the eye popping and sometimes disturbing designs, the ‘standing o’s’ and Imelda Marcos’ figurative ‘bravo,’ one can truly say that the designer is indeed a success where other Filipino designers have yet to prevail – and that is in finding his own voice, and having the courage to be insanely and uniquely himself.

The post Filipino Designer – Insanity: A Look into the Madness of Rocky Gathercole appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Hair and Make-Up Artist

Working in the region as a Filipino make-up artist is a challenging yet rewarding experience for Arulfo “Bobby” Caparas.  A veteran in the industry known for his unapparelled professionalism at work, Bobby worked with many celebrity clients, publications, models and designers in the region over the years.

In 2019, he was involved in the wedding of renowned luxury real estate developers in the Gulf. He has also been the hair and make-up artist for Nat Geo TV Kids in Abu Dhabi, and has worked on projects for FRAMESI (Italy), Citizen K Arabia 100 Magazine, Gucci, Dior, Louis Vuitton and more.

While doing the things he loves, Bobby aspires to bring home his learnings, eventually establishing his own hair and make-up seminars through Kawit Tourism in Cavite. He shares, “Through volunteering and getting involved I’ve expanded the quality of my life in ways I never once thought possible.”

Bobby is also gearing to launch his own make-up line this year.

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

BOBBY CAPARAS

Make Up Mogul

Widely considered as the Gulf’s top Glam Guru, Bobby has a career that extends 36 years as one of the most admired make up artists in the Asia Pacific. Two years ago, he won the Asian Trend award for Make Up Artist Of The Year in Chengdu, China – proof positive of Bobby’s ability to transcend trends and stay relevant amidst the ever-evolving standards of beauty.  Bobby elaborates: “They say experience is gold, but I’d say perseverance is platinum! I always push myself each time I do a project motivated not only by financial reward, but mostly by my love for the art of makeup and style. Passion ignites creativity. It is the impetus that propels us to greater heights. You don’t influence or rock the status quo with familiarity. You do so with a spirit of adventure and curiosity.”

Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

The post Bobby Caparas – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Hair and Make-Up Artist

Jessie Tabla strongly believes that when passion meets dedication and hard work, one can never go wrong in chasing their dreams.

Blessed with projects from campaigns for local and international brands, product launches, fashion shows, weddings, even international assignments for VIPs, as well as working with Hollywood and Bollywood superstars and the region’s elite, Jessie is a veritable celebrity hair and make-up artist.

Able to showcase his love for art and creativity through makeup, Jesse has indeed found his place in life. As one who takes pride in representing the Philippines as a country of world-class artists in the world of glamour, Jesse advises his peers never to stop trying new things, to continue building their social network, and surround themselves with people inspiring people who uplift one another.

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

Jessie Tabla

Make Up Artist

Being part of this year’s Illustrado 100 came as a big shock to Jessie Tabla. As a Filipino makeup artist who is used to working behind the scenes, he never expects to be recognized for his work in any large scale – but his impressive body work has earned him the spotlight.
This year, Jessie headed the makeup artist team for Vogue Fashion, organized by Vogue Italia Editor-in-Chief Franca Soccani. He also did make-up for Gerard Butler, Frieda Pinto, and other celebrities. Of his achievements, Jessie testifies: “Hard work really pays off. I get the kind of jobs that I’ve been getting because I am always on my toes, learning new skills and expanding my talent.”

Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

The post Jessie Tabla – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Make-Up Artist

Makeup artist Valentino Montuerto Jasmin is committed to showing off what a true Filipino artist can be while paying homage to his roots. In 2019, he added a number of prestigious global fashion brands to his roster of fabulous achievements in the industry, working on projects with Sandro Paris, Diesel, Faces and being a part of the Dolce & Gabbana runway show among others. His work has also been featured in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, L’Officiel and Emirates Woman.

Valentino aims to touch emotions, move people, empower, and inspire them not only through his craft but also with his new passion project. Recently, he formed Kalo, a new venture that means a lot to him.  “I have been dreaming of being able to incorporate my love for fashion, with sustainability and being able to help my local community in Samar.”  With Kalo, the artist is set to design and produce 100% organic, oversized hats made of tikog and romblon, fibers that are indigenous to Samar. Woven by local artisans, each hat is meant to contribute to the livelihood of local women. While his project is still developing, Valentino believes that this is his way of giving back and providing an opportunity to showcase extraordinary Filipino craftsmanship to the world.

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

Valentino M. Jasmin

Makeup Artist, Trainer
They say that the best way to learn something is to learn it well enough to teach it. That is exactly what Valentino has done with makeup. As a regional makeup trainer for a professional makeup brand, Val is is at the helm of evolving the standards of beauty in the region. In his words: “Makeup is not just all about applying cosmetics to someone’s face. It’s an art form. You transfer good energy and creativity to someone, and its empowering.” He has always been passionate about the arts, having been obsessed with musical theater since childhood.  Of the legacy he wishes to impart to the community, Val professes: “I exist and live for my art and passion. It’s the air that I breath. I’m very rebellious when it comes to my choice of art form, because it’s a personal space where I can unleash creativity and good energy. The connection between me and art is very strong. I’d die without it. And people can be prejudiced about my work – what matters is that I am happy with it.”

Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

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Fashion Photographer & Entrepreneur

Rozen Antonio’s combination of photography mastery as well as a natural flair for entrepreneurship has allowed him to gain a most fulfilling career.  As a fashion photographer trusted by Dubai’s couture industry elite including Michael Cinco among others, and the owner of Houz of Zen, a boutique Events Management Company specializing in creative, bespoke flower designs catering to luxury hotels and brands, Rozen’s days are filled with beauty and the presentation of it.

What he likes most about his job, he shares, is seeing the joy of his clients.  Commenting on his rise from modest roots, he says, “I feel great enjoyment in seeing the progression of my career and take pride in knowing that my achievements stemmed entirely from my own efforts. For many, carving a place in the profession requires being your own boss, and with it, your own motivator.”

In an era where a sense of entitlement is the order of the day, Rozen knows that success should always come with being grounded and grateful.  He says, “Yes, you may have worked very hard and intelligently to get to where you are, but everything is still a blessing. It could all be gone tomorrow; it could all be gone today.”

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

Rozen Antonio

Photographer

Fashion photographer Rozen Antonio knows how to capture the essence of beauty and translate it into stunning photos. Currently running his own company that specializes in boutique event management and fashion & beauty photography, Houz of Zen, Rozen on several occasions has had the opportunity to produce work for big clients here in the UAE and back home. He has done ad campaigns for Bench, and is the go-to lensman of celebrated designers such as Furne One and Michael Cinco. Understanding how competitive the photography industry in the region can be, Rozen operates with the philosophy that his true competition is himself, believing that in order for him to be continuously successful, he should always strive to surpass his own achievements.

Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

The post Rozen Antonio – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Siréne
She calls from the sea.
Her beguiling voice heard in the soft whispers of silk;
her enigmatic beauty framed in yards upon yards of allure.
She beckons to the sea.
Her beauty blinding sailors with the dazzle of her seductive promise,
as the restless waves crash on the creamy limestone rocks
rumbling as the giant dragon sleeps.

Photography: Herson Nebaya
Styling: Argie Salango
Makeup: Gery Penaso
Assistant Makeup: Anton Patdu
Hair: Rochelle Lacuna

Featured Designers: Aris Pico, Eric Delos Santos, Randall Salomon, Miguel Amante, Kariz Polintan, Kathleen Que and Jun Jun Ablaza

Model: Jodilly Pendre

Shoot Assistants: Badz Albert and Mark Levenson Ocapan

Shot on location at Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, Burgos, Ilocos Norte.

Special Thanks to the Tourism Board of Ilocos Norte and the Ilocos Norte Media Incentives Desk, Communications and Media Office

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Model – Entrepreneur 

Ann Llagas is a woman on a mission to add diversity to the local modeling scene as well as provide opportunities to fresh talents aspiring to walk the runway and be in front of the camera.

Since she started her company “Anna Model Management” in 2016, Anna has played a crucial role in contributing to the development of the region’s modeling industry and is now known for providing a platform for upcoming, ethnically diverse models for both runway and editorial purposes.  Anna’s models have graced various affairs, including the region’s definitive annual fashion event Fashion Forward, as well as publications and commercial projects.  2019 also marks the agency’s first exclusive international Filipino model, Carlo Lee’s initial foray into Fashion Forward.

To date, the model-entrepreneur continues to pour out her own style, as well as her own hopes and dreams into her initiatives. “My modeling agency is not just about business, but a legacy to,” she says. “It gives the opportunity to new and rising talents, so that together, we all journey towards success.”

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

Anna Llagas

Model, Entrepreneur

Going beyond her fame as a leading figure in the Filipino modeling community in the Middle East, Anna Llagas has taken a leap of faith in 2016 by opening her own modeling agency – ‘ANNA Model Management’.  With the keen intent of directing the public eye to undiscovered Pinoy talents in the region, her main objective above all else is to introduce a higher degree of cultural diversity to the region’s fashion industry.

Recently gracing the cover of STYLE VIETNAM, Anna’s love for modeling stems from her love for fashion.  Hence, it was exciting for her to transition into another facet of the industry: from modeling, to model management.

2016 has been a particularly trying year for Anna, as switching from a regular employee to the sole head of a business she now owns has had its highs and lows. However, in light of the many challenges she faces, Anna continues to strive in style, buoyed by the will to achieve her goals. Of what lays ahead for her and her business, Anna shares: “I want my modeling agency to succeed not only in this part of the world but also in Europe and Southeast Asia. I want to provide more work opportunities for my models, artists and talents.”

Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno
Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

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