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

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

Watch the Live Reveal of the 300!

The post The Making of the Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

By Lalaine Chu-Benitez

The ultimate challenge of our generation of Filipinas is to realize our shared destiny, and with that, our intrinsic duty to contribute to narrowing the disparity between our achievements and struggles by propelling each other upwards and onwards.

Head of State.  Prima Ballerina.  Chief Justice.  Captain of Business.  Fighter Pilot.  Tony Awardee. Scientist. Diplomat. Athlete. Artist. Activist. Soldier. Miss Universe.

Indeed, the Filipina has gone a long way in recent years to rise above the stereotypical role of traditional women. Not just the pleasant, alluring and sun-kissed presence on Amorsolo’s canvas, our womenfolk have advanced to become strong, intelligent, capable modern women, whose resolve and ability to accomplish and prevail is undeniable.

We are more fortunate than a lot of our counterparts around the world. Belonging to a country which ranks 7^th among 145 in gender equality according to the most recent World Economic Forum Report, and 2^nd among all nations with the most female senior business leaders according to Grant Thornton’s Women in Business Report of 2016, we are surrounded by females who not only take care of the family and home, but also keep the wheels of business and government turning. We have Filipinas in virtually all fields of endeavor and we have heroines in our history, as well as everyday heroes who toil in faraway lands to provide for their loved ones.

Despite the progress, however, the Filipina continues to grapple with the intriguing contradictions of her bipolar public persona, and her less than perfect circumstances.

The Filipina Dichotomy

We’ve seen her in her various incarnations – as the soft and yielding, “easily fainting” Maria Clara of Noli Me Tangere, as well as the bolo-wielding revolutionary leader and babaylan Gabriela Silang.  We’ve glimpsed her donning the habit as the devout nuns of People Power in EDSA, and then barely-clothed as the bar girls of Ermita.  She has held the most powerful position in the land – that of President, twice over with Cory Aquino, and then Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, but she is also the pained face of abused domestic helpers scattered all over the globe.

Even with the robust representation of Filipinas in our country, our women’s health, by and large, continues to be denied proper protection with our government’s failure to enable the proper implementation of the reproductive health bill – a law that has been contested for the last 14 years, and until recently, eviscerated and clipped before it could hit the ground, with the removal of key provisions as well as funding.

For each single content online devoted to Filipina achievers, there are over 50 on those in the flesh trade.  And then, against the millions of progressive female OFWs, who have braved venturing abroad and who have succeeded, we also have millions of underprivileged sisters back home who live in abject poverty and disadvantage.

Curiously enough, Filipinas have come to represent, some of the most powerful people in our country, as well as the most vulnerable.

Filipina Empowerment:  Onwards, 21^st Century Filipina.

Bridging the Disparity

So, as women of the Philippines, what should we make of this gap, this contradiction?  To acknowledge the disparity is not enough.  Far from encouraging breast-beating on account of our inadequacies and struggles, or for that matter, saying that we should merely be giving ourselves a pat on the back for the strides we have made so far, we should understand instead – how far we have gone, and how much farther we NEED to go.

For those of us who are lucky enough to belong to the fortunate set of women who are educated, economically independent, who are progressive and have the liberty and the wherewithal to pursue dreams and ambitions, and who understand that they have a choice on everything in life – be it concerning their bodies, their careers, their relationships, their families, the larger community and the world they belong to, a new frontier lies there for the conquering.

The next summit the empowered Filipina has to scale does not simply lie in the pursuit of further education, or higher positions in the career ladder, more investments or financial liquidity, greater awards or recognition, nor even more seats in the government.  The latter are merely useful stepping stones that will help boost us to meet the demands of the real endeavor that lies ahead.

The ultimate challenge of our generation of Filipinas is to realize our shared destiny, and with that, our intrinsic duty to contribute to narrowing the disparity between our achievements and struggles by propelling each other upwards and onwards.

As empowered women of the 21^st century who have the privilege of understanding and personal choice, we should take interest in the welfare of our womenfolk and leverage the advantages we have earned through the years to pull fellow Pinays into better circumstances.  And the opportunities to help are limitless – whether it is by sharing knowledge, providing opportunities, contributing to provide a better representation of Filipinas online and around the world, among others, we only need to tap what we already have – that innate Filipina quality of being an emphatic nurturer with the talent, the resolve and the ability to conquer everything we set our hearts and minds to.

In the end, it is not just about celebrating our successes and landmarks; it is also about putting our hands together for the work that needs to be done. Because we can only really go as far as the poorest, the most oppressed and the least privileged of our women can go.

Filipina para sa Filipina.

Filipina Empowerment:  Onwards, 21^st Century Filipina.

OPINION

What is a 21^st Century Filipina?

Empowered women weigh in on what makes for a truly contemporary Filipina in this age of technological advances and globalization.

Spouse of the Philippine Consul General – Dubai, UAE

A 21st century Filipina is an empowered human attuned to the privileges and capabilities of the advances of science and technology available to all. An empowered Filipina is aware of her rights as a human being, within the bounds of the laws and policies of the state or country where she resides, and within the bounds of moral laws. She is confident of what she can contribute to global society, aware of what role she plays in the development of the community she has adopted and the motherland she continues to call home.

She should also know that despite categories labelled upon people, everyone is a human being, whose wants, needs, dreams, and hopes are universal and hold no difference despite nationality, citizenship, or economic class.

Filipinas of the 21st century must be aware of the advances of science and information technology and how these could make them better informed. They must use these to better their knowledge of how the world can work for mankind’s benefit, and to ease living conditions, at the same time, to make themselves better people. The information available to everyone at the touch of their fingertips should make Filipinas gain an even more balanced perspective on issues and concerns that matter to society.  The ability to understand our world through greater information must make our 21st century women more open to new and even radically different viewpoints. She must, at no point, be closed to previously held truths.

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER MARIA CRISOLOGO-ESPIRITU COON

United States Navy, Medical Service Corps

Health Care Administrator – Stafford, Virginia

A generation of women destined for greatness! That is what comes to my mind when I hear the phrase “21^st century Filipina woman”.

To fulfill greatness in this generation, Filipinas should first have a strong sense of spirituality.  Regardless of religion, a sense of spirituality provides us a deeper source of strength that this physical world cannot supply. This source of strength has kept many Filipina women resilient today and throughout history.

Filipinas already possess the characteristics and attributes for greatness; intelligence, resilience, compassion, industriousness, perseverance, hospitality, passion, strength, courage, and family values. Many times over, Filipinas have overcome adversity, however, Filipinas should not merely survive life but rather, they should strive to always better themselves, uplift others, and make a positive difference in the world. We all have different strengths and weaknesses, Filipina women should leverage them and work together towards ensuring the success of future Filipinas. To thrive in these times, Filipinas should constantly thirst for knowledge, magnify their talents, cherish relationships, respect tradition (but don’t be limited by it), embrace modern times (but don’t be corrupted by it), uphold their integrity, and strive for a better future.

Filipinas should also embrace being Filipina and do their part in bringing honor and pride to our people, communities, and culture.  We play a big role in shaping future generations by instilling strong morals and values of integrity, honor, courage and sacrifice.  As members of society, Filipinas should exercise their right to vote and elect government leaders not for their popularity but for how they would represent, serve, secure safety, progress, and relevance of the country and its people at national and global levels.

ATTY. ELEANOR LUCAS ROQUE

Tax Lawyer – Makati, Philippines

The 21st Filipina is the best of both worlds. She is old world because she keeps her traditional values like respect for parents, importance of family, and fear of God. She is new world because she is innovative, brave and ambitious. She is not afraid of change and would in fact welcome it. We see Filipinas all over the world, leading strong organizations and nurturing strong families.

Filipinas should be proud of their heritage. We should not pretend to be anything else. We should be comfortable in our own skin. In most places I go to, I proudly proclaim that I am a Filipina. I see a lot of positive reactions. We should all be ambassadors of the Philippines.

It is important to be innovative and adaptable. Everything is changing at a very fast phase. Your ability to change and adapt can decide whether you will be successful in life or in business. A few years ago, hard work was valued the most. Now, no matter how hard you work if you cannot outrun the competition, you will not survive in business. Previous established corporate practices are being questioned by millennials joining the work force. The world is changing and we have to change with it. After all, any disruption is an opportunity.

We should always have a continuous thirst for knowledge. Never stop studying. No one can educate herself too much. If you are interested in something, learn it. If you cannot spend the time or money for formal education, there is always the internet and YouTube. For example, I have learned acrylic landscape painting through YouTube. Before that, I had no artistic training and I can only draw stick figures. Now, my mom is running out of walls to hang my paintings.

It is very Filipina to ignore or negate a compliment thinking that doing so is being humble. There is a difference between humility and self deprecation. We are not known for promoting ourselves and making sure that we get the recognition we deserve. It is about time we learn to accept the limelight when we deserve it. But probably more important is the ability to identify when the limelight has to be directed to us. We are the queen of our court and it’s high time our subjects learn it.

JOAN FATIMA M. TUANO

Assistant Guest Relations Manager at Amanyara – Turks & Caicos Islands, British West Indies

For me in my early twenties, it means it is time to pave my way to success. It is time to figure out who I am, and think about how I plan to go forward. Shall I open a business? Change specialties? What exactly makes me happy? Bake cupcakes for a living? Being a Filipina in general, I am an excited chameleon looking forward to wherever life takes me. Given our vibrant history, being colonized and fighting for our independence, along with the fact that the country is a stunningly unique archipelago in South East Asia, we are destined to be global acrobats. Opportunists hungry for all life have to offer.

My advice for Filipinas today is to be strong and confident about who they are and what they want to achieve in life. If in doubt, travel the Philippines or even volunteer to disconnect and rediscover yourself. Plan your day, weeks or months with a goal in mind and go for it. Open up your minds and take chances. Live life, it is extremely short. It is never too late to follow your dreams, try something you never had time to do and most importantly, believe in yourself. Most of the incredible things in my life have happened because of luck and simply putting myself out there.

Be interested and be interesting. Read the news. Follow fascinating people in your industry, stalk them and ask them to mentor you (like I did). Fill up your profile with experience and achieve all-star profile status on Linkedin. Ask questions, never leave doubts unanswered. Listen, listen and then talk. Improve your cultural intelligence and strive to be one with your colleagues especially when away from our ‘kababayans’. Don’t be afraid to try something new, and always strive for continuous improvement. Work hard, play hard, and then save even more.

OLGA BARCELONA

Head of Operations – Brash Brands; Project Leader – Philanthropilipino

Dubai, UAE

A 21st Filipina is someone who is successful in their chosen careers whilst giving hope to the younger women who are just starting their careers. These are the women who are proud of what they do and who continuously thrive to move with the times and challenge conventional views. These are the Filipinas who support other Filipinas and inspire others to give back and pay it forward. It’s not just being able to provide for their families, it’s also about being able to succeed in what they do, not just locally, but globally. 21st century Filipinas are industry leaders, they are powerful, they know what they want and they do it and they never forget to give back to society.

Filipinas in this day and age should let go of timidity. We should be more confident because we have it takes to be leaders. We can be powerful and we should be empowering other women, instead of just competing with them. Filipinas should be brave enough to challenge themselves to better. Filipinas should be tenacious and go the extra mile to reach their goals. Filipinas should be ambitious, have goals and know that they deserve only the best. Filipinas should be global citizens. This doesn’t mean letting go of being a Filipina, but understanding that we have an added responsibility of belonging to a world-wide community of people.

Filipinas should stop thinking too low of themselves. This is one trait that most Filipinas have which I dislike the most – the lack of self-confidence that hinders most Filipinas to do more than what they are capable of. One can never be more than what they are if they don’t even try.

PERLA RAMOS PAREDES DALY

Life Coach, Volunteer, Writer and Artist; Publisher of Pinay.com

Austin, Texas

21st century Filipinas can dream bigger than their 19th century counterparts because they have more opportunities for growth and potential, and there are more resources today that empower people. Now, it is increasingly acceptable for women to be educated, successful, financially independent and happy. And it is great that she can contribute to society.

Today, because of travel and technology, Filipinas can be global citizens, experiencing multiple cultures and perspectives, interweaving them with Philippine heritage and traditional values. And what really makes a Filipina a global citizen is when she acts to make a difference for herself, her family, and also for her village, communities, and for the world.

Filipinas in this day and age should see different options for themselves; develop personal growth not just material growth; have a higher degree of self awareness, and a healthier self-worth; have a great attitude no matter what age they are. They also should be flexible, willing to hear feedback and to learn, change and grow and strive to be a better person for themselves, for others and the world.  Share their success by helping others grow and shine.

There are two attitudes that we can change. “That there isn’t enough and that we deserve so little”. And that “Bahala na” means we give up our power. These are limiting beliefs that reduce our happiness, successes and our light. The next change that we can make from inside is that we can see God, goodness, true happiness and success, as Light. If we can shift our thinking and beliefs that each of us has a divine light gifted within us, then things shift to “I can shine,” “everyone can shine” and when that happens then divine light is increased manyfold. That is why pinay.com’s tagline is “Shine, Pinay, shine” and it’s underlying theme is shine mentality and ‘liwanag’.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ

Editor-in-Chief/social advocate/aspiring urban farmer “almost superwoman” (almost but not quite) Lalaine Chu-Benitez has been driving Illustrado’s advocacy towards Filipina empowerment for almost a decade now.  She believes that the Filipina’s greatest challenge at this very moment lies beyond further education, skills improvement, recognition and financial might – something quite simpler than what we tend to expect.

More Filipina goodness here – Read a Love Letter to the Filipinas in the Middle East

The post Filipina Empowerment: Onwards, 21st Century Filipina. appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

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.

By Rex Venard Bacarra

The buzz from my phone jarred me awake. My heart skipped. The guessing game has begun.

The first time my heart pranced, it was in November. Eyes barely opened, I stretched my arm and lazily frisked my bed several times and felt, finally, the familiar cold and hard metal of modern-day enslavement. The text read-

“We are pleased to inform you that you are part of this year’s selection of Illustrado’s 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf.”  I froze. I shook my head. Now fully awake and with eyes unusually larger this time, I reread it.

It was November of 2016.

In Dubai, November heralds the most hospitable weather of the year – people are merrier, rain is a cause for celebration, and festivities galore. For Filipinos who matter, and those who think they matter, November is a foreshadowing of an event in December that rattles the Gulf’s who’s who. While the weather is welcoming, what is about to come is not for the pretenders and the insincere. Around this time, the Filipino community in Dubai could hear the thunderstorm of agitation long before the rare, first raindrop of winter falls.

Pardon my French, literally and figuratively, but it is Illustrado’s storm-brewing and highly-coveted ‘100 Philippins les plus influents du golfe.’

Illustrado’s 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is serious business. It is the only Filipino lifestyle magazine that earned the respect of leaders and trailblazers across all fields: fashion, education, hospitality, construction, trade, media, finance, scientific and technical, healthcare, arts, and recreation. Everybody wants to be in. Nobody wants to be out. It brings out the worst among the hypocrites. It inspires greatness among the genuine.

Illustrado 100 galvanized itself into the consciousness, and the hearts of the Filipinos and this kind of respect is never accidental. Its undue influence mirrors the vision and character of the husband and wife team behind the authoritative magazine. The team, in the wisdom of their selection, has figured out the Excalibur of meaningful choice: that a person’s character is better seen in deed than heard in word. As it is, time will begin to show the cracks of those who are merely acting out. Or that Teflon looks will start to wear out. Consistency in character, after all, is that manna from heaven disliked even by the hungriest of sycophants.

The message in 2016 was simply signed, “Lalaine.”

I finally saw the face behind the signature during the photoshoot. Tall, fair, beautiful, prominent eyes that more often welcome and intermittently assess, hair that reveals a lifestyle with every strand in place, and an aura of superior intelligence wizened by years of complex human interaction. “Intimidating. Uppity.” I thought. That thought flew within seconds the moment she hugged me when she saw me as if to teach me a lesson that impressions are just that- impressions. In the age of social media, impression has become a tool for the untruth. Both for those who are looking and those that are being looked at. The former because what he often sees is filtered, and the latter because what she wants to show is a version she feels she lacks. Mine was neither. Lalaine wasn’t filtered. I didn’t feel the lack. Rather, it was a lesson on humility and misjudgment on my part.

She was giving me instructions when my eyes darted to the bespectacled, lean-framed man guiding the photographer. There was something light and delicate about the way he unconsciously caressed his hair that I couldn’t quite grasp. His walk was sprint-like. Lilting, to an extent. Sensing my distraction, she introduced me to him, “Mon, my husband.” “Opposites,” I noted mentally. He was soft-spoken; almost shy-like. Lalaine was extroverted; unquestionably socially confident. Their difference couldn’t be more apparent when he hugged me. It was as if I wanted to be hugged by Lalaine, but I wanted to hug Mon. You get that feeling that Lalaine will protect you, but you want to protect Mon.

But they weren’t opposites. His gentle demeanor belied his disciplined creativity and perfectionism that I saw in Lalaine. When my turn came, he was exacting. Side view. Eyeglasses in between the ring finger and the middle finger. The thumb slightly touching the chin. Not touch. Peck. The index finger on the upper lip. Brows knitting a bit. Eyes looking at the horizon with determination. One, two, three takes. Done.

The result was the best profile I ever had the privilege of being taken.

People don’t just talk. They gossip. It has long been a mystery, mythic even, what criteria they follow in the selection. I asked them the same. When they first selected me in 2016, I had neither the awards nor the tangible recognition, just the video clip they saw of the graduating multicultural students giving me a standing ovation when my name was mentioned by the magna cum laude during his rousing valedictory speech.

“It is not just about the awards and recognition that more often can be bought. It is the impact that one has on the community, and the humility in bearing the intoxicating madness brought about by privileges that go hand in hand with fame.” Or words to that effect as Lalaine waxed lyrical. “We have seen people who were transformed into monsters by fame. People corrupted by illusions of grandeur. They may be included in this year’s 100 Most Influential, but you will not see them again in the next.” Mon chimed.

Awards. Influence. Humility. Like Plato’s celebrated tripartite soul of what makes a great society – Appetite, Courage, and Wisdom – the criteria for 100 Most Influential are tripartite beacons inextricably woven. One can have a multitude of awards, but without humility, it regresses into decoration. Functional, but bereft of meaning. One can be noisy in the social media about the number of their awards and accolades but is actually an empty tinfoil can. An empty vessel,  scorned Plato, that always makes the loudest sound, for they that have the least wit are the greatest babblers. One can be humble, but false humility is also a phenomenon often mistaken as genuine, and when humility is exercised falsely, it becomes hypocritical, more often a call for greater attention and excellence is unable to advance because honesty is clouded by humble-bragging. To be able to abstract truth from falsity, and balance this complexity, require knowing when to draw the sword, or be prudent when necessary without hesitation. This, in itself, is art.

It is an art that Mon and Lalaine have mastered.

Truth is, they knew that you don’t really learn from awards and successes sans humility. You learn from the pains of your wounds and the scars of insufficiencies.

I saw them quite a few times. Deeper than the last. The more I get to know them amid radiant laughter and sips of wine, the better I learn about their vision for Filipinos. They wanted to elevate Filipino pride. “Taas noo” voices the Illustrado spirit. They have had enough of the Filipino stereotype as laborers and maids. Building the collective image has become the lifeblood of their visionary partnership, and it grandly translates into the quality of their work: the Illustrado Magazine exudes so much class, quality is exceedingly tasteful, and the content isn’t just well-written, but intermittently profound and mirthful, never banal, sometimes haughty, but always sublime. The topics embody their vision, showcasing the best of Filipinos in a medium that is elegantly world class. It seems to me, the better I get to know Mon and Lalaine, that Illustrado is not just about celebrating Filipino excellence. It is about having a voice in the vibrant utterances of the world’s best by showing who we are in our magnificence. Not inferior, but the best. Not only the ones who innovate but the ones who disrupt. Not just the followers, but the leaders.

Come to think of it, they – the vision, the magazine, they – are like pearls in a sinewy string. Each echoes the virtuous preeminence of the others. Equally.

I find quality in all their endeavors. I once witnessed Lalaine hosting a panel discussion composed of business experts of different nationalities at the Palazzo Versace this year. To say it was a spectacular feat is by no means an exaggeration. Notwithstanding her trademark eloquence and wit, she knew every panel member’s name by heart, their professions, and their achievements. Whereby all the hosts I witnessed in the past would depend on cue cards to remind them, she had none. She carried the exchanges with refinement. I shook my head realizing how elegant it went. Many in the table where I was seated were awed. At that moment, I sensed a collective pride of the right kind.

This preponderance for quality extends to the few they personally handpicked to be part of Illustrado’s core team. “Dr. Rex, Rony of Illustrado here. Here is the schedule…” The first text message I received from the imposing yet impossibly lovable Rony Aquino, the member of the Illustrado team that I have seen and known the longest. Her exceptional management skill earned her the lovable monicker ‘Kapitana,’ perhaps because she talks and acts like one. I find her humble, preferring to work in the background with an eye for order. Many times in parties and events organized by Illustrado that I got the privilege of being invited, she would eat last, she would follow up on people, and she would go around quietly making sure that the guests get to be attended to.

Then there’s Alwee, fashionably understated with a voice that is of a butterfly’s flight: dainty and light. He has a kind and gentle demeanor, but I reckon he is more Ally McBeal than Therese of Lisieux underneath. That is, one who savors in vivid wishful thinking especially in situations where he wants to control but can’t, and what he thinks can often be amusingly bloodthirsty. Relaxed in his ways, but quietly ambitious and capable of making things manifest, he also has the uncanny ability to bring people together much like the Pied Piper of Hamelin, even at such a young age.  An interesting persona, that’s for sure; he probably changes his hair color more than Dubai changes its seasons. What attracts me to him, though, is his sense of high art. Exquisite. Discerning. Consistently tasteful.

The young blood completes the team, the equally good-looking Paolo and Antonino. A tree is known by its fruits, we’ve heard. The reverse is also true – the fruits are known by their tree. Both boys are brilliant and creative, strikingly mirroring their parents in brilliance and creativity. I have seen both during photoshoots, engaged brief conversations with them, and their loquaciousness and confidence were admirable. I saw Antonino’s TEDx talk and read Paolo’s articles, and I could just imagine how proud their parents were. Always are. More than their brilliance, it’s their character that impresses me most. To have grown away from the Philippines, I expected them to be unaware of the nuances of values commonly practiced in our motherland, but they retained that respectful attitude, implying that, they, in spite of distance and gap in cultural rootedness, understood the full importance of being Filipino.

Each in the team is contrastive. Volatile even, just as many exploratory minds are. I suspect that the members are chosen based on peculiarities in the name of creativity. A team with exceptionally talented and creative, often emotional, people can easily break down, but it is to their credit that they have broken through instead.

Perhaps because they are sincere; unadulterated by power. When you have a platform respected by accomplished and influential individuals and organizations, it is easy to be overwhelmed by and intoxicated with, the corresponding privileges. Not them. When they launched GVER – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, a platform that allows people to post goods and services to be given for free for people who may find them handy, that speaks volume of their incorruptibility, of their disdain for power, and of hearts shaped for giving. It is a social enterprise built on sharing freely by their arms that keep on extending selflessly.

They are paradoxical. Preferring to live 45 minutes away from the metropolis, tending, zen-like, to the plants and cozying in scenic coastlines, yet they organize the most stylish parties and gatherings known to Filipino expatriates, attracting the fashionable and the heavy-hitters. It is this seemingly violative lifestyle choice that makes them enigmatic to many.

In one of my conversations with them, I could sense pride in what they do. Rightly so. When you have done so much to the community, balancing them with your professional jobs that put food on the table and the pains and hurdles of creating, you cannot help but be proud, not of the condescending type, but one of self-respecting honor.

Yet, I could feel the ripples of exhaustion. When I think of them, and what they continue to do, I see vulnerability that was not there before. It is a vulnerability that doesn’t seem autumnal that will go away when the first rays of Spring greet the horizon. It is a vulnerability that I am afraid will stay, attempting to physically hasten the limitations of being born human and mortal, but it will struggle and fail, to take over a love so rooted in giving and nationalism. I have never questioned their love for Filipinos and, ironically, this love is a burden they will relentlessly carry but without question, ’til they breathe their last.

They have loved long and deep enough to know not to compromise.

It is this uncompromising love that compelled them to gather people who enkindled the spirit and changed the landscape of Filipino identity for the better. Illustrado 100 tells the stories of Filipinos and celebrates their excellence. Stories that will be told over and over again, inspiring generations. This is, I believe, is Mon and Lalaine’s, and Illustrado’s most meaningful legacy.

It will speak for them long before they’re gone.

__________________________________________________________________

DR. REX VENARD BACARRA

Professor of Philosophy at the American College of Dubai, Dr. 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” and multi-awarded community champion shares with us his thoughts on our society today, this time his personal take on Illustrado’s 100 MIFG. Follow Dr. Rex Bacarra on Twitter: @rexbacarra

CREDITS for the Uber-Styled Illustrado Team Shot

Photography: Rozen Antonio, assisted by JR Antonio

Fashion: The Style Curators- Dubai – Ivan Cabatit, Khel Recuenco, Gweys Soriano John Klint Javier Vasquez, Auve Lacsam; HMUA: Mau Piodena IV

On Lalaine: Ezra Couture; On Mon, Alwee, Paolo and Antonino: Giulio Twist – Dubai Mall On Rony: Dulce by Sofiya

Shot on location at: Another Bar – Dusit Thani Dubai

BTS: Sheldone Dacalos

https://www.facebook.com/sheldonedacalos/videos/281706779170538/

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

The post An Intimate Look Behind Illustrado’s 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

It’s mid-year travel time in the emirates, as we downshift to a slower pace with the incoming summer hiatus.  For those who are not in a holiday mood, especially entrepreneurs like me, the quieter season is a welcome respite giving us time to review and plan for the busy months ahead.

So, just like our month of contrast where one foot’s into rest and recreation, and the other one’s on staying put and continuing the hustle, here’s our issue about travel and business.

We introduce over 30 entrepreneurs from the UAE and the GCC, and put a spotlight on 10 awesome Filipino-founded startups that are making a difference back home and around the world.

On the adventure front, forget about last year’s most popular travel destinations, as we take you to 10 under the radar destinations that Filipinos should visit, through the eyes of some certified Filipino wanderlusters.  We also bring you on a foodie trip, to Filipino restaurants that are putting the Pinoy taste on the world map. If that wasn’t enough, we’re also showing you daydream-inducing AirBNB listings that will make you to want to book a trip, right at this very moment.

So business or travel?  Work or play?

Whatever you choose, do not forget to apply Helen Keller’s inspiring words –

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”

Here’s to a gentle summer…

Taas noo, Filipino!

Lalaine Chu-Benitez

Editor & Chief

Lalaine Chu Benitez

Editor-in-Chief “almost superwoman” Lalaine has been driving Illustrado’s mission to uplift Filipinos in the region for over a decade now.  A former corporate dynamo living in Dubai for over 20 years, her natural knack for marketing and mass communications makes her a formidable authority in any dialogue regarding the re-branding of the Filipino image on a global scale.

The post Here’s to Work and Play appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Ninety eight percent literacy rate, English proficiency that’s praised the world over, commendable work ethics and a sunny disposition that can’t be beat – do we Pinoys need anything more to succeed in work and life?

As a matter of fact, yes.  Most of the time, we are so hooked on getting diplomas and criticizing our other kababayans’ English grammar, that we miss the value of other softer skills which make a lot of difference out there.  It doesn’t matter whether you are a cum laude or you speak and write flawless American English, just brains and language mastery are not enough in a world where one gets judged instantly, where being articulate and being able to promote oneself paves the way for opportunities.

So, here are some of the lessons that Pinoys need to master, to get ahead – the kind of stuff that nobody teaches you in school.

Dress to Win

First impressions count.  In fact, the first impression is all that most of us have.  According to experts, people form an opinion about you within the first seven seconds of contact.  So it’s important to get a positive response because that moment will define how things are going to progress, or end right off the bat.  Naturally, people being visual beings, before you can even wow with your intellect, and endear with your warmth, you will get judged for the way you look and present yourself.  Wearing jeans, t-shirt and flip flops to a job interview?  Do this if you don’t want to get hired.  Looking fresh out of bed and unkempt while walking around the city on a weekend, risking bumping into your boss or clients – a definite no-no!

It doesn’t matter whether you are going to work, or going to the mall.  Of course, dress according to the venue and the occasion, but always be well put together.  And take note, carrying an LV bag, doesn’t give you license to be shabby and inappropriate – your designer items, will never make-up for proper attire.  Not much budget for clothes?  No problem.  You don’t need an entire closet of items.  Just invest on a few good classics that you can mix and match and you can’t go wrong.

Dress for the job, in fact for the life, you want. Dress well because you respect yourself.

Learn to make conversation

Even if it’s just chatting about the weather, or making a conversation out of nothing, there’s huge value in being able to talk confidently and comfortably with a stranger.  Social occasions will always spring up as you climb the career ladder and get elevated in life, and there’s no fun, and certainly nothing to be gained from being a wallflower.

Go out there and meet people.  But before you can gain friends, or contacts, you must first learn how to talk.  But where do you actually start?  A smile, a good introduction, and a warm handshake are musts.  Thereafter, make small talk.  Got nothing to say?  Ask questions.  Learn to cultivate curiosity.  People always respond warmly to interest – especially when they feel it’s genuine.  Now that you’ve broken the ice, who knows if you might end up with a new friend, or a valuable business contact?

Make friends with other nationalities

Pinoys are very cliquish.  Non-Filipinos often ask why we only like to mix with our own kind, be it at lunchtime at work, during events, or our choices of venues around the country.  We like to be safe, and among familiar faces and sounds, even tastes.

This time around, make a conscious effort to make friends with non-Filipinos – your colleagues, your neighbors, the people you always meet at events, etc.  Having friends from other communities will not only enrich your life, you will also find that it’s easier to get around when you have a ready smile and an open mind for everybody, instead of hesitation and shyness.

 Ask for what you need and what you deserve

“Okay lang.”  That’s a common answer when you ask Pinoys whether they want something or not.  Is it a yes?  Is it a no?  Who knows?  But the negative thing with the phrase “okay lang” is that we not just say it, we also live it.  Most of us are happy to settle for something just to avoid having to stand-up and ask, let alone demand, what we need or what we deserve.  So leave that comfort zone, kabayan.  You need something?  You think you deserve something?  Ask for it.  It might sound cliché but there is truth in that adage – “Ask and you shall receive.”  Just one caveat though, especially at the work place, when asking for something major – like a raise, make sure that your request is warranted and well-supported.

Learn how to say ‘no’

Too nice to say no?  Awww…  Not very nice.  Not saying no, especially to people propositioning you for things, not only gives the wrong impression, opens you to abuse, but most importantly, wastes your time, as well as the other person’s.  Not interested to buy?  Don’t want to attend that event or get into that project?  Don’t really like those people?  Just say it, but say it nicely – “no, but thanks.”  When you give people false hopes, you’re really not doing them a favor, you are, in fact, misleading them.  So why not just rip that band aid off and let it to sting for just one second. Be practical.  Don’t waste somebody else’s time.  But yes, always do so kindly.

Use social media productively

And so you think Facebook and Instagram are only meant for fun and for sharing memes?  For posting those party pics where you were less than decent, or that rant where you had virtual verbal diarrhea against that other person who really deserved it?  Think again. Employers now look at social media profiles to help them make recruitment decisions.  Contacts, clients, even potential business and life partners, will look you up online to see what kind of person you are. So when posting and deciding on your security settings, always ask, “what kind of person do I want the world to see?”  Drunk, pre-occupied on Facebook and IG during work hours, ranting and raving, and naked at the drop of a hat, is not the most flattering image, my friend.

________________________________________________________________________________

Lalaine Chu-Benitez

Editor-in-Chief and aspiring urban farmer “almost superwoman” Lalaine has been driving Illustrado’s mission to uplift Filipinos in the region for over a decade now.  A former corporate dynamo living in Dubai for more than two decades, she has seen enough to appreciate that the best things in life can’t be bought, and that in this day and age, authenticity could be one’s best asset.

Related Articles:

The New Oppressor: Pinoy vs. Pinoy

Filipino Attitude: Pinoy fears we need to get rid of to get ahead

The post Power to the Pinoy: Lessons Filipinos need to master to get ahead appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

 

We found a totally unexpected new funky hangout spot just in the middle of Bur Dubai and it was amazing!

When you think about the Mankhool area, the first thing that probably goes to your head is “Old Dubai” where residents sit down until the wee hours to sip a milk heavy cup of karak chai and smoke shisha. But the place has a lot more to offer! Majestic Hotel Towers recently launched the new hottest secret spot for adventurers who are on the hunt for something different, something mysterious, with a definitive funky vibe. And we’re digging a new term for it: MANK-COOL!

It’s only mid-week but work the next day didn’t stop the fashionphiles to dress up and show up at Illustrado x Miss Wáng Come Out & Play #AsianMafia party. Pumped with good music, flowing drinks and food to share, the night was packed with dancing, fun and good vibes. Miss Wáng is very hip, industrial and urban with contemporary touches and pops of color, bringing an Asian downtown hipster vibe to life. A perfect venue for #TeamIllustrado to throw a party for the city’s coolest, most stylish and the most influential Filipino residents.

The Asian connection goes deeper in the menu that was served during the party, drawing from diverse cuisines offering a mix of authentic favorites and also modern variations of signature dishes including crunchy volcano shrimps, teriyaki beef sliders and apple pie wontons. The dishes were complicated with non-traditional handcrafted cocktails from all over Asia – Thailand, Japan, Philippines and Vietnam.  

Meet the unique, unafraid, creative people who got #scenezoned at the party in a photo series by Filipino fashion photographer Rozen Antonio: 

Full Album

Watch the video here:

https://www.facebook.com/illustradomagazine/videos/10159070347085051/

Having a major FOMO already? Visit Miss Wáng at Majestic Hotel in Bur Dubai. For timing and schedule, follow them on Facebook and Instagram @misswangdubai.

The post A Funky Asian Party in Bur Dubai? Illustrado Got It SceneZoned at Miss Wáng appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

The V-Day Dilemma

By Lalaine Chu-Benitez

I’m a person who loves traditions and rituals.  I love the fact that you go the extra mile to make the people in your life feel special during specific occasions and Valentine’s Day is one of those important dates.

Then again, there’s that school of thought that says, ‘why wait for a special occasion to show your love when you can do it everyday, right’?  Well, call it the ‘human condition,’ but I’m not perfect. So let’s just say that being all out generous and loving, on a daily basis, is very much still a work in progress.

So a day devoted to love is great – or isn’t it?  

Ideally, it should be, although, it’s well known that more people get depressed during the holidays and special occasions.  With all the pressure that such celebrations bring, it’s easy to understand why some people are not exactly ecstatic and as celebratory as the rest.  And at this time, moreso, since Valentine’s could be quite a biased exercise.

Just consider beyond swooning pairs, what about husbands or boyfriends who lament that the celebration is quite partial to women?  Or pragmatic-jaded types (like moi) who cringe at the idea of having to sit through dinner at a restaurant with other googly-eyed couples, most of whom sport the color red, pledging cheesy love to each other? Most of all, what about singles who feel isolated while everybody else is gushing over flowers, chocolates and dinner by candlelight?

Although V-Day idealists would argue that this day of love is for everybody and anybody, the truth is, it has become mostly a celebration of romance.  So no matter how much of a true-blue idealist you are, a cozy dinner at home with your ‘manang’ auntie (if that’s the only person you have out here), does not a Valentine make.

Then again… you look back at your childhood memories, to those sweet days in February, spent making red art paper or cartolina hearts, or more ‘sophisticated’ (for elementary graders) cards complete with fancy cut-outs to give to your crush, your friends, your teachers, parents, siblings and just about everybody.  Sweet, isn’t it?

Well, that is unless you are the only kid in class who didn’t get a red heart. Ouch!

Confused?  I know I am.  Oh well, love it or hate it, we’re going to mark Valentine’s Day anyway.  So, turn the pages and indulge with us, while we tackle l’amour from different perspectives.

Just, don’t go cheesy on me now …

The post POWER TO THE PINOY: The V-day Dilemma appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

By Lalaine Chu-Benitez

I grew up seeing an older generation of Filipinos conditioned to settle for the cookie-cutter idea of life. You grow into adulthood, you settle down young, make yourself a family, and then devote all your energies to bringing up the kids. And finally, before you know it, you’ve hit your retirement years, and sink into the proverbial “rocking chair” waiting for the twilight of your life.

It’s a common formula. Still, it is not a way of life that is exclusive to the generation of our parents and the ones before them. At times, you could see the same symptoms with folks who are (supposedly) currently at the prime of their life.

Are you a zombie? One of those who goes through the motions of life with a blank stare, drifting from routine-to-routine, allowing yourself to be swallowed by the banality of the day-to-day. It’s the widespread lethargia of contemporary life – a lot of us inevitably get overwhelmed by work, responsibilities, commitments, and sometimes self-imposed cultural limitations.

Sometimes, it’s because we’re tired (or most likely, “sick and tired”), or plain lazy, or perhaps we’ve simply resigned ourselves that this is how life is. We feel empty and unexcited, but just can’t be bothered to make an effort or don’t know how to shake off that gnawing feeling inside.

Firing Up Your Passions

Wouldn’t it be nice to get up in the morning all pumped-up and enthusiastic to meet the new day’s promise? Wouldn’t it be good to feel that you are truly living instead of just merely existing?

Find your passion.

Discover what makes you feel alive, that which deserves your time, effort and commitment; that special something worth taking a big leap for, that keeps you going even through life’s seemingly boring routines, as well as the tough times.

Passion is not just the exclusive domain of couples and lovers. It is when you see yourself intensely driven and energized in the name of worthy pursuits, or the things and causes you feel strongly about, and give you immense joy. Being passionate means doing something greater than yourself, giving the world your very own contribution.

Whether that may be big or small, or you, young or old, able-bodied or not, is immaterial. The most important thing is that you poured yourself into something worthy of your God-given gifts, redeeming yourself from a life that is lived without a purpose, revolving solely on routine and the obvious.

Do not settle. Demand for more in life. Because a life without passion is a life not lived at all.

“There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” – Nelson Mandela

The post Firing Up Your Passions appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

ILLUSTRADO STUFF: Christmas Wishlist

Of course we at Team Illustrado desire world peace – that is, in addition to THESE!

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ, Editor-In-Chief

Advanced concert tickets and a Paris trip in June 2017 to watch the international premiere of Joe Hisaishi Symphonic Concert: Music from the Studio Ghibli Films of Hayao Miyazaki. 

An extravagant gift fit for a music/Studio Ghibli nerd! The music of iconic Studio Ghibli films of Academy Award-winner Hayao Miyazaki  (2002 “Animated Feature Film” for “Spirited Away” and 2014 Honorary Award) featuring Joe Hisaishi’s celebrated scores will be performed live by the Paris-based symphony orchestra and choir Orchestre et Chœur Lamoureux at two concerts in June 2017 at the Palais des Congrès de Paris. A lady can dream!

RAMON BENITEZ, Creative Director

A local get away!

Something I always look forward during the winter season- to see one of the most beautiful places in Oman. A stay at the Hatta Fort Hotel can really mean something. The view of the Hajar mountains from the cozy chalet is it for me! A one and a half-hour drive, you get transported to another world – to the little Italy in Oman.

NICHOLO JALLORES, Associate Editor

A dog

I really want a dog. But I will only get a dog if I have enough space, so I guess what I really want is a bigger home. But I cannot afford a bigger home just yet, so I guess what I really want is more money. But homes are expensive, so I need a lot of money. So I guess what I really want is 100 million dollars. For the dog, I mean.

RONY PAGTAKHAN, Barangay Kapitana

Hermes Birkin Bag

I’m not really into bags, but if I were to be gifted a designer bag of my choosing, eh lulubusin ko na! An Hermes bag is forever. Simple and elegant design na hindi nalalaos. Puwede ko pang ipamana, isanla, o ibenta. I got inspired when I saw Ezra Santos carrying one. Very classic and understated, but commands attention and respect.

ALWEE VILLAROSA, Marketing Coordinator

Netflix and Apple Music Subscription

I enjoy spending time with myself as much as I enjoy other people’s company. So this Christmas, I want to have a free 1-year subscription to Netflix and Apple Music. My mind would be at peace if I don’t have to worry about how “I wasn’t able to get most out of this month’s payment” because I’m doing other things. But on a much cheesier note, DXB-MNL-DXB ticket would be nice too! I just want to visit the places I used to go to with my friends and fam.

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Illustrado Stuff: Issue 9

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The post ILLUSTRADO STUFF: Christmas Wishlist appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.