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

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Excel V. Dyquiangco

Nikki Muller would never have thought of television as an option if not for a serendipitous encounter outside her high school gates in the year 2000. The host and presenter based in Singapore recalls an MTV film crew waiting to interview students about the upcoming movie ‘Men in Black.’ “When the producer approached me to ask my friends and I some questions, instinctively I took the microphone and started interviewing my buddies,” she says. “Soon after that, I received an invitation to audition to co-host MTV@MBASSY when I was 15 years old. We filmed in the Philippines but it broadcasted around Asia. This was around the time of Donita Rose, KC Montero and Sarah Meier.”

Since she had to keep her grades up in high school, however, she had to stop after one season as the hours were long and the shoots were until the wee hours of the morning. It didn’t take long for her to bag another show right before she graduated from high school, though, as a co-presenter for Studio Disney on the Disney Channel for two years.

“I filmed in and out of Singapore when I was 17 and learned so much about the craft,” she says. “This is what inspired me to take it seriously and study Broadcast Journalism in the USA. When I was 19, I received my first regional nomination as Best Entertainment Presenter at the Asian Television Awards. I’m very proud of that!”

Getting Her Feet Wet

Right after college, however, Nikki switched gears to work at the United Nations Head Quarters in New York City but the limelight still beckoned. In 2011, she returned to television in Asia – but not without hardships.

“It was a very difficult process to begin again after being away for 5 years,” she says. “I knocked on doors, I checked online sites for auditions and eventually was taken under the wing and guidance of my agency, Fly Entertainment who helped me land projects. It was a year of struggle before I got my feet wet. You have to do this job because you love it.”

Perhaps one of her most memorable hosting duties was when she hosted ‘Bicycle Diaries’ on Channel News Asia. She described it as one of her most rewarding experiences as she cycled along the Mekong River along six countries during a time when development was starting to affect the local communities. “I landed in Myanmar the day Aung San Suu Kii was sworn into government and the air of hope and change was so palpable,” she says. “I met so many incredible individuals – so down to earth and willing to open up their homes and hearts to complete strangers. I have loved cycling ever since!”

This year Nikki is set cover the Championships at Wimbledon for the third time. She has had a chance to sit down and interview some of the world’s greatest athletes such as Boris Becker, Bjorn Borg, Serena Williams, Roger Federer, among others. Her most surreal experience, though, was meeting and spending time with her childhood heroine Martina Hingis.

Fighting Burnouts

Although to some people her job may seem glamorous, Nikki admits that she has had some burn outs in the process. To combat the fatigue, she meditates and practices mindfulness when she can.

“I’ve learned to be open to opportunities even if they don’t always feel like the right fit,” she says.  “There is always a new skill to learn and value to add to a project, but of course, always draw the line where health and well-being is at risk. Taking on challenging work is rewarding but you must also draw the line and put your health and well-being first.”

She adds, “Every year I have come to understand my priorities more and more. I now try to ensure that no work year is carbon copy of the last. It’s important to take on new experiences and cast the net wide until you find the perfect fit or until you feel you’ve had your fill of adventure and can focus on one true path.”

Currently Nikki produces feature stories for Fox Sports Asia and she sees herself really harnessing the story-telling angle by being more actively involved in the creative development of future TV shows. In the near future she hopes to invest in her role as a presenter and as a background researcher who helps with ideas, writes stories, and directs the look and feel of the shots. “I think you add so much more value to a product if you can be well-rounded,” she says.

Follow Nikki:
– Facebook
– Instagram

Find more Pinoy Progressive articles on Illustrado Life here.

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Vice President of Administration & Affairs
EMIRATES CULINARY GUILD

Dubai, UAE

My Job: 

My role, which is pivotal to the success of the guild, is extremely diverse.  It’s not only about communications and maintaining databases but also handling competitions, sponsorship agreements and recording.  I manage solely the entire registration process of over 1200 competitors for the guild’s largest event – the Emirates Salon Culinaire.  I am also in-charge of managing schedules, the arrangements with judging panels, transport and finances, tabulating the winning results down to medal preparation and certificate printing. Where other culinary associations work with a dedicated events company, I handle this task single handedly.  As a non-profit organization, where corporate sponsorship is key, I also manage sponsorships, as well as provisions for clients at the monthly meetings where I am the Chief Scribe providing members updates and fielding questions about upcoming events. It’s a robust job that is challenging, as I deal with various nationalities and management levels across the globe.

A day in my life:

Since I work from home, I start my days with breakfast whilst going through emails and checking urgent messages that need attention. I deal with a lot of these, so my mornings are usually filled by this task for the guild. One of the things that I enjoy the most in my job is meeting different people from around the globe when we have culinary events. Receiving congratulatory messages for me and my team from international judges is quite exhilarating, as well as always being invited onstage at the grand awards ceremonies to be recognized for a job well done.

Career advice:

In this competent world, always try to upgrade your knowledge, so you can enhance your skills at work. Always take with you, patience and tolerance, hard work, perseverance, purpose, and belief in yourself. Most of all, love your job and it will love you back.

NELSON EDWARD

Manager- System Networks and Communications Department,
System Solutions and Communications Division

PANASONIC MARKETING ME & AFRICA

Dubai, UAE

My Job: 

I wear many hats at work.  First of all, I make sure that my subordinates achieve their respective targets across Middle East and Africa.  As Marketing Manager I ensure that our line-ups are up to the current market requirement and demands, not only in price but also in features.  This includes promotions, strategic planning, analysis, and etc.  My job entails a lot of travelling – an average of 2.5 times a month, to visit markets for product presentations, trainings and meetings.  Taking regular travel as an opportunity, I also make sure I have fun, meet new friends, learn about different cultures, and of course, bring home some souvenirs from my trip.

I started in Panasonic as coordinator and one of the most remarkable things that happened to me is that I have been able to build trust with my team and top management, including HQ in Japan.

A day in my life:

My days are challenging and full of continuous learning and fun.  My team is very diverse (Filipino, Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Moroccan), so I have to be very tactful in my approach with each unique cultures.  Shouting is definitely not in the list of my things to do with my team, since I believe there is always a solution for every difficulty no matter the challenge.

Career advice:

Do not give up your dreams. We should be flexible in adapting to new challenges and changes.  Mistakes happen but we should convert them into “lessons learned.”  We should make good reason to love our job, so that we do not need to work in our life.

Find more Money, Business and Law articles on Illustrado Life here.

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Architect

My Job

I arrived in Dubai on the day after my 26th birthday.  It was my first trip outside the Philippines and so far the longest 9 hours inside an airplane.  I am a registered and licensed Architect and a very young one, then. I left with both excitement and anxiety.  I was turning my back on a developing career in Architecture and Project Management. I was already an Associate at 24 in a small design firm. I shifted to Project Management at 25 and worked with a team in a multi-million-renovation project of a 5-star hotel in Cebu.  But the prospect of earning five times my salary should I decide to work in Dubai then, made the decision much less complicated.

My Company

I work in a Design Studio with a team of architects and designers.  Our company is an international multi-disciplinary design consultancy for Architecture and Engineering.  I have been in the same company for the last ten years.  Our projects range from residential, commercial, hospitality and mixed-use developments located in and outside the UAE.  I was involved in some note-worthy projects such as The City Walk Residential Blocks and Saadiyat Beach Club and Centro Hotel by Rotana to name a few.  Some projects would last for a year or more while others take less.  So even if I have been with the same company for a long time, I always find new adventures when new projects are assigned to us.  A typical day in a life of a Technical Architect is consumed mostly in front of a computer.  As such, my main goal at work is to communicate and document architectural design thru drawings of a specific building for client presentation, design coordination, statutory approvals, tender documentation and construction.  My hands are always busy “drawing”, computing areas for design programs and helping-out in visual presentations, reports and coordinating project matters with other players within and outside our office.  In a collaborative work environment, leadership and teamwork is quite important and I can be the leader when needed or a team member.

My Journey, Thus Far

Looking back, the invitation to work in my current company was an answered prayer. It was basically my ticket to Dubai.  My college friend gave the lead and passed my CV to her boss. The job opportunity was for a technical team of draftsmen and detailers using computer applications. I was more inclined to do design and project management before.  At first, I was a bit reluctant of my role in the office.  But this job abroad trained my eye for details and exposed me to the more technical side of Architecture.  After a year, I was promoted to become a Senior Architectural Technician.  Fast forward to date, my business card bears the word “Architect” under my name.  Indeed, the field of Architecture has many niches.  And no work behind the scene is trivial.  It took me a while to prove that I can work hand-in-hand with nationalities that have more sophisticated knowledge in this field.

The trend of Filipinos being forced to work abroad for economic reasons seems to go on a steady rise.  But many are disillusioned to find out that being an OFW is not as easy as what it seems.  It is not for the faint-of-heart to begin with.  So it is important to weigh your options well and assess yourself before deciding to leave.  On the contrary, living abroad on your own can also sharpen you as a person.  And there are many OFWs, who actually succeeded in their own field and found recognition abroad.  Most of our fellow Filipinos are dreaming to find greener pastures outside the Philippines.  Many of us have our own reasons for leaving.  OFWs like me, on the other hand, are dreaming to finally go home to our beloved country some day.  And no matter how long and how far we’ve come to, the sentiment is still the same.  There’s no place like home.

View her Kareen’s profile here.

More money, business and law on Illustrado life here.

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Sponsored by Liali Jewellery – Dubai

Voting is now on!  Visit Illustrado Magazine on Facebook to support your favorites!

Alross R. Almoguerra

Alross “Ots” Almoguerra is a 24-year-old Pinay based in Abu Dhabi. The youngest of two siblings, she has a knack for art, music and films.

Alvin Lauron Hawane

Alvin “Jae Lau” Hawane is just a simple guy who loves travelling and adventures! His many talents include cooking, singing, dancing and collecting authentic shoes. Wherever his feet may land, he dreams of being an inspiration to all through promoting uniqueness and individuality.

Anna Bernadette K. Presas

Anna Bernadette Presas, also known as Bea, is a half Cebuano half Illongo who has been living in Dubai for the last two years. She strives to be a model one day, and her hobbies include sports, outdoor activity and dancing.

Caren R. Braun

Graduating with a Bachelor’s of Science in Information technology, Caren R. Braun is a young lady of German-Filipina descent. She currently competes in many beauty contests in the Philippines.

Chatlotte Endaya

Philippine-born Charlotte Endaya has been studying in Saudi Arabia since 2013. 15 years old and studying in the Philippine School in Al Khobar, Charlotte has a newfound interest within the world of Modeling, and aims to learn more about it.

Cornell Anthony Inocente Tudio

Supreme Student Government president of Visayas State University and newly scouted model of DRD Creatives and Production, Cornell Anthony believes nothing is impossible through hard work, determination, patience and faith.

Dalia Varde Khattab

Known as “Laling” by her friends around the world, Dalia Varde Khattab is an Egyptian-Filipina girl who’s curious about the world of modelling. She enjoys her TV series and browsing the internet and dreams of being a plastic surgeon one day.

Ellinore Panlilio Dela Cruz

Elma Punsalang Villanueva

Emran Mansul Chua 

Zamboanga native Emran Mansul Chua has become a dream chaser through his career in Riyadh. He’s the jolly type who enjoys the limelight through modelling and photography.

Francis Noc’es

A multi-faceted entrepreneur who dreams big, Francis Noc’es works as a marketing communication strategist for Virgin Mobile KSA. He sports an active lifestyle away from work through his love for badminton and is a toastmaster at heart!

Irene Benn Lascuna

Irene Benn Lacuna is a 28 year old Dabawenya based in Dubai. Irene’s love for acting, modeling and hosting has driven her to become the outgoing, optimistic and intrepid woman that she is today! She loves reading, poetry and watching netflix series, occasionally indulging in K drama.

Jay Arvin R. Mendoza

Jay Mendoza has been involved in the fashion industry for over a decade! A far cry from his childhood ambition to be a civil engineer. His family is his rock, and he constantly stays strong no matter where his feet land.

Jed Exconde

Jhoana Marcia Paras 

John Michael E. Manjares

Dubai based John Michael E. Manjares has been modelling since the age of 18, having done many shows in malls and schools. He currently works in the Carlton Hotel.

John Nico B. Ronquillo 

John Ronquillo is an all-round family guy! Having finished Meds School, he aspires to be a Neurologist through his dream of being able to help those in need.

Kaiser Milasky Silvestre

Kaizer Milasky Silvestre is a Pinoy OFW based in Saudi Arabia, currently working in a boutique Spa.

Larry Hilarion Oliver

Aside from working as a full time Sales and Marketing Executive, Larry Hilarion Oliver is a Philanthropist, managing his own charity organization that provides education for the poor. He is also a freelance model, programmer and fitness enthusiast.

Liam Dan Francis

Maria Jeddah Diaz

Maria Jeddah Diaz works as a nurse in Kuwait. A modern Pinay Heroine in her own right, she believes she can withstand any difficulty and carries herself with a heart that depicts a true Filipina.

Maybelene D. Dela Cruz

Maybelene Dela Cruz dreams of being be a top model in the Philippines while pursuing her creative interests in the fashion industry.

Mayenne Geroy 

Nina Erica Guilas

Nina Erica Guilas is a dream chaser. Jolly and strong at heart, she believes that all hard work and resilience will bring you closer to achieving success.

Pattrice Daiz Garcia

Princess Ecel M. Cabornay 

Princess Ecel M. Cabornay is an ambivert with a passion for the arts. Her young soul seeks to go out on many adventures to find out where she truly belongs.

Ralph Anthony Ricablanca 

A representative of the free spirited, modern Filipino, Ralph Anthony Ricablanca is an active supporter of education in the Philippines. He constantly surrounds himself with positive and influential people, never running out of inspiration and the drive to become the best he can be!

Raphael George Durmiendo 

The outgoing Raphael George Durmiendo graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Hotel and Restaurant management and is currently working at the Raffles, Makati. He seeks to travel the world and aims to constantly learn about new cultures.

Rico John Guevarra 

Hailing from the province of Negros Occidental, Rico John Guevarra has come a long way! At 32, He has made several appearances on TV and became an advocate for children’s rights. He aims to be an advocate for life and continues to sharpen his skills and talent.

Robert Gratuito 

Robert Gratuito is a Certified Public accountant currently working as a tax manager in a big accounting firm.

Scott Glenmark Fadri Remorin

The 26-year-old Scott Fadri Remorin loves to sing and workout! His favorite ways to kill time include being an internet surfer and watching project runway.

Toto Glenn Malaga

While not working as an HR specialist in Riyadh, Toto Glenn Malaga is an aspiring artist delving into his newfound passion for photography.

Wally Cadag

Xelle Reyes

WINNERS:

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The Annie B. (Batobalani) Chronicles

The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai.

Hey mga avid readers! Eversince, lagi na lang tungkol sa akin ang nababasa ninyo, for a change let us give way to another masugid na tagasubaybay of my column – this time sya naman ang kamuhihan at pagtawanan nyo – charot!!! Nang maiba naman ang ihip ng hanging ngayong buwan ng mga puso. Mga kabayan, kilalanin natin si … Shawie at ang kanyang Kwentong OFW.

Dear Ate Annie,

Hello po! Muzta na po u, Ate Annie? Sana po ay nasa mabuti kayong kondisyon patanggap ninyo ng sulat kong ito. Simula pa lang ay nais ko na kayong pasalamatan sa pagtangkilik ninyo ng aking liham. Itago nyo na lang ako sa pangalang Shawie. Tulad nyo, isa ring probinsiyana – tubong Liliw, Laguna – di rin gaanong kagandahan ngunit balingkinitan naman ang pangangatawan kaya’s panalo ako lalo na kapag suot ko ay Mango at Zara – ayan, pareho din nga pala tayong fahionista. Half Chinese ang father ko kaya nabiyayaan ako ng makinis at maputing balat…yun nga lang medyo may pagka-kinky ang buhok ko ngunit salamat sa Sheila Straightening Cream, Maine N’ Tail Shampoo at Hanabishi Flat Iron (my bestfriend, I swear!) ay paminsan-minsan ko rin na-a-achieve ang Gretchen Barreto hairstyle ko. Simula elementary hanggang high school ay honor student ako – oo, may pagka-nerd din t nahirapang mag-fit in sa mga kaklase ko noon. Dahil masipag akong mag-aral, Accountancy ang tinapos ko at top 5 sa board exam ng batch naming. Impressive ba?

Well, sa kabila ng lahat ng achievements ko, maituturingg kong empty at malumbay ang aking buhay, Ate Annie. You see, isa ako sa mga libo-libong kababaihan na kung tawagin nila ay “No Boyfriend since Birth”. Tumpak ka dyan – Never Been Kissed, Never Been Touched ang beauty ko – kaya ako lumiham sa iyo – para sana naman, dala ng iyong tunong at mga tips, ay makahanap na ako ng aking Prince Charming. Yun Na!

Ewan ko ba, lahat naman ng pelikula, tv shows, magazines at books ay sinunod ko na. Pero talagang mailap si Kupido when it comes to granting me my very own Papa. But don’t get me wrong, Ate Annie – I’ve never had a boyfriend pero madami nang boylets ang dumaan sa aking mga palad. I’ve met and have been with several na but not one single guy had been what you can call true love – or totoong naging boyfriend ko.

Take the case of Yñaki, my first-would be-boyfriend sana during my college days. He’s so coño and tisoy – dreamboat talaga ng buong campus and number 1 crush ng bayan. Akala ko noon, um-effect na ang kaka-Angel’s Breath cologne ko, kasi he always looks at me whenever I pass by.

Then one Friday afternoon, after watching his basketball game, I was about to take a sip from the water fountain when all of a sudden someone pushed me – napasungalngal tuloy ako sa faucet! Grabe, kakahiya talaga – everyone laughed – kasi there was blood coming out of my gilagid na – gosh! Then when I was about to confront na the salarin, I turned back – it was Yñaki pala! Ay nag-blush talaga akooooo. In my head, I started hearing this Close Up Jingle, “Hey where’s the look in your eyes….” habang he was wiping the blood from my mouth. “Hey it’s you pala…siguro you got so thirsty from game noh?” I told him. After he apologized, he asked for my number. Oh-My_Gaaaaawwwwd!!!

Pag-uwi ko ng dorm I made suhol to all the girls there by treating them to ice cream so that no one will use the phone muna before me. The around 3:30am he finally called! Super kilig!!! He asked me to go out with him, basta isama ko daw ang friend ko para hindi naman dyahe. So the next day I brought along Mika, Paola and Ronna Mae – my prettiest classmates – to my date with Yñaki. He brought din five of his team mates – we all had fun at Shakey’s! I was so kilig and ecstatic kaya I volunteered to pay for the bill na – syempre milestone in my teenage life yun kaya I wanted it to be perfect. The guys all exchange numbers with the girls then we went home na. I was expecting Yñaki to call that night pero almost 5am na the phone didn’t ring naman kaya I decided to sleep na lang. Baka sobrang nabusog sya with all the pizza and the mojos that he ate kaya baka maaga sya nakatulog.

After that weekend I saw him sa campus, I approached him and make kamusta. Sabi nya nadyahe daw sya after our first date. Hihihihihi!!! Kaka-kilig talaga. I told him there’s no problem. The he asked if I had merienda na (how thoughtful!) so I offered to treat him sa Digman’s Halo-halo. There, he opened up his heart to me. He said over the weekend he couldn’t stop thinking of this girl daw. He’s had a crush na daw on this girl since last sem pa and he’s glad he’s met her na finally. OMG!!! I was starting to sweat like a pig…could he be describing me???? But he’s torpe eh. He looked at the clock and had to eat and run lang kasi he had basketball practice pa daw. Anyway, I didn’t get to sleep that night. I played all of my Julia Fordham CDs and that made me feel more in love.

The next day, I waited for him sa may locker area but he had basketball practice na naman – so I waited pa rin until it finished at 7:30pm. After their practice, I surprised him by ordering 2 barrels of KFC – kasi I know na gutom na sya. He shared the food with his team mates and they made us kantyaw pa. Uuuyyy…kilig to the max naman!!! Kaya lang he was so tired na kaya he went home after eating na. It’s ok – I understand naman eh. It’s hard to have a jock for a boyfriend – he has to divide his time and attention between me, his studies and his game. Imagine? Dapat masanay nalang siguro ako. The next day he left a note with the tindera in our canteen. It said he wanted to meet me after class daw – very important – and that he took his 6 burgers na rin, abonohan ko na lang daw muna kase he didn’t have barya that morning.

So yun na – that moment that I’ve been waiting for. Siguro he’s finally going to propose to me. So I skipped my last period and nagpa-fresh ako sa ladies CR for one hour. I’ve waited for about two hours sa labas ng gym pero ok lang. The he came – with matching one dozen red roses and a box of Choco Mallows in his hands. Kunwari hindi ko sya nakita-syempre dedma muna konting pakipot noh??? The he covered my eyes with and asked, “Guess who?”  Aaaayyy…kilig to the bones talaga, Ate Annie!!! Then he said, “Shawie, I know you’re such a nice girl and that you won’t let me down. I’ve got this one huge favor to ask sana eh…” Ako naman, “Really???” Nakanganga lang ako waiting for him to say the right words… “Can you….” He said, nahihiya pa. “Whaaaatt baaaa??” (Dali, inip na inip na ako!)

“Can you give these flowers and chocolates to your friend Mika for me?”

“Yesssss!!! Bigla akong napasigaw! Pero haaaa??? Teka, parang mali yata yung narinig ko. Huwaaattt???!!!

I wanted to ask you if you can give these to Mika, she’s my crush eh,” sabi ng damuho.

Nagdilim ang paningin ko Ate Annie, umikot ang paligid at gumuho ang mundo ko. Lintek na Yñaki yan, matapos kong ilibre eh gagawin lang pala akong bridge para ligawan ang classmate kong si Mika!!! Nag-walk out ako, Ate Annie. Hindi ko matanggap na gagamitin lang pala ako ni Yñaki. Buong akala ko eh ako na ang napupusuan nay ayun pala yung kaklase kong tadtad naman ng anan sa mukha?!!! Lecheeee!!! At duon nagwakas ang kabanata ng lovelife ko with Yñaki. Ni wala man lang holding hands, grabe!

Nang maka-graduate ako, nagtrabaho ako sa isang multinational accountancy firm – kokonti ang gwapo sa office kasi puro mga nerd at geeks sa math ang karamihan sa kanila. Isa si Robbie sa iilan lang na may hitusura at may porma sa department naming. Matangkad sya, makinis ang balat, at talaga namang japorms kung mag-outfit. Syempre, madaming girlash ang ume-emote sa kanya – super friendly sya kaya’t close sya sa lahat ng kababaihan sa office.

In one of our company outings, nagkasabay kami sa pagsha-shopping noon sa SM. I was so busy looking for a swimsuit nang mangkasalubong kami papuntang dressing room. He was trying on 5 different kinds of Speedos – talagang fashionable sya – imagine tatlo ang baon syang swimming trunks sa outing samantalang overnight lamang naman yon? Sya ang pumili ng swimsuit na binili ko – syempre para maging close kami kailangang tanggapin ko mga advice nya.  After paying for our swimwear, kiladkad nya ako sa Rustan’s para mamili naman ng lotion – sya daw ang bahala sa akin. Pumili sya ng walong iba’t ibang klase ng lotion – may SPF 20, bronzer, after sun, moisturizer with Vitamin E at at kung ano-ano pang halaman – tinuruan nya akong mag-proper skin care –  para daw hindi ako tumanda – grabe, na-feel ko talaga ang concern nya sa akin – mayamaya hindi na balat ko ang pinakialaman nya, sinamahan nya ako sa sa Propaganda Salon para ipa-style ang aking buhok – hindi daw kase bagay sa shape ng face ko ko ang hairo ko – oh dib a? Na-conscious ako bigla kasi wala akong kamuwang-muwang pinagdidiskitahan na pala nya ang aking fez! Eh ako naman, sige lang – discover me….control me…I’m yours!!!

After ng outing namin, mas naging close pa kami. Sabay kami nagla-lunch and that’s when he introduce me to the art of fine dining –  puro kasi sa fastfood ko lagi sya inaaya eh he’s so health conscious pa naman. He taught me how to appreciate gourmet food – pati tamang pronounciation ng French cuisine natutunan ko becoz of him. Sosyal di ba? At take note ha? Madalas sya pa ang nanlilibre sa akin. Kaya obviously wala syang balak perahan lang ako. He helped me bloom into a pretty swan – hindi na ako mukhang librarian kung manumit mula noon – naging fahionista na ako! Thank to him kasi every weekend pinapahiram nya ako ng mga collections nya ng mga magazines like Vogue, Vanity Fair at Cosmopolitan. Pati mga favorite DVDs nya shine-share nya sa akin like My Best Friend’s Wedding, The Devil Wears Prada and Brokeback Mountain. Bukod sa pagiging stylish at gourmet eater nya, super sensitive din sya at very thoughtful. Tuwing lalabas kami, he always gives me 5 sheets of Gatsby’s Oil Control Paper Powder – para daw hindi ako oily. O di ba?

When his birthday came, I was so flattered kasi I was the only one from the office that he invited. He’ll introduce me daw to his friends – it’s time na daw. Aaaawww!!! Eton a yun…he will finally expose me to his friends – malamang to get their approval. Knowing how fashionista he is, I maxed out my credit card and got a Prada dress – the one he’s been convincing me to buy dati pa – all for the love of Robbie.

Na-late ako noon sa party nya nagpa-parlor pa kasi ako para siguradong super ganda ako when I meet his friends. When I came, puno na ang condo nya with all of his guest – puro boys! At puro cute gaya ni Robbie. Most of them are flight stewards, advertising executives and interior designers. Nakakatuwa sila kasi all they talk about is food, fashion, travel and showbiz – hindi tulad ng sa ibang parties ng mga boys na puro kotse, gadgets at babae na lang ang labing pinagbibidahan. Here, everyone is so cultured and sophisticated. Sa totoo lang, ang dami kong topics na hindi maintindihan – pero oo lang ako n goo kunwari hindi ako bobita. Napansin ko na ako lang pala ang only girl na guest and Robbie kept on calling me “girlfriend” in front of everyone with matching snap ng fingers – kaya halos matunaw ako sa kilig. Naghintay lang ako for the right moment when all of a sudden I noticed some of the guest – boys ha? Cuddling each other…na shock ako. Ate Annie. Weird sa paningin ko yun. I walked out dun sa eksena and looked for Robbie. When I opened the door nagdilim ang paningin ko, umikot ang paligit at gumuho ang mundo ko, Ate Annie! Nahuli ko si Robbie may kayakap na mhin! O.M.G!!! “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” ni Celine Dion ang tumugtog sa isip ko.

Kaya pala, mahilig sya sa culture at arts – pati na sa beauty and fitness eh isa syang Dyosa!!!! Akala ko pa naman din nagagandahan sya sa akin kaya panay ang offer nya ng make over at tips – kasi type nya ako…ayun pala ginawa lang nya akong isang manyikang pilit na binibihisan at inaayusan!!! When he introduced me to his friends as his “girlfriend” eh amiga pala at hindi syota ang ibig nyang sabihin….walanghiya – natanso ako, Ate Annie!!! Nagdugo na naman ang puso ko – muli akong umasa sa wala.

Matagal ko ring ipinahinga ang puso ko. Everytime kasi may makikilala ako naging defensive na ko baka masaktan lang ulit ako at um-effort tapos saw ala rin naman mauuwi.

Hanggang sa napadpad nga ako ditto sa Dubai – to seek greener pastures – and more diversity when it comes to men. Since madaming foreigners ditto, the more chances of winning – ika nga ng promo ng Hope & Winston.

Hanggang sa makilala ko si Ahmed, Ate Annie. Nag-aabang ako noon ng carlift sa labas ng St. Mary’s pagkatapos ng misa – naligo na ako sa sarili kong pawis sa sobrang init sa labas ng biglang may humintong Ford Focus sa harapan ko. Bumukas ang bintana at bigla ako napa-hesusmaryahusep sa sobrang kagwapuhan ng driver nito – si Ahmed nga. Blue eyed at blonde sya – grabe sa kakisigan. He offered me a ride – miski gusto ko ng tumalon papasok sa bintana eh nagpakipot ako – ayoko nga, akalain pa nya easy to get ako noh? “No, thank you…I’m fine, “pa-girl akong tumanggi. “Are you sure habibi?” Coz there is blood coming from your nose already,” pangungulit nya. Aba, nang tignan ko sa bintana ng kotse nya eh nagdudugo nga ang ilong ko!!! Ang init kasi eh. Since wala namang dumadaang ibang sasakyan eh pinagbigyan ko na rin sya. Mukha naman mabait kaya siguradong safe naman sa kanya. After nya ako ihatid sa flan namin, we exchanged numbers. Since then, lagi kaming lumalabas – nanonood ng sine at nagsha-shopping tuwing weekend. In a span of two weeks naging super close kami – pero hindi naman nya ako nililigawan. Inisip ko baka since foreigner sya, hindi na uso ang ligawan sa kanila. Basta ako, sakay lang, enjoy the moment – ang sarap ng feeling kapag magkasama kami eh.

After one month of knowing each other, he invited me to his flat. Wala kasi yung flatmate nya nagbakasyon so wala syang kasama at nalulungkot sya. Excited at kilig akong pumayag, Ate Annie. Pagdating ko sa flat nya, nagulat ako dahing naka-boxer shorts lang sya. Medyo kinilig ako pero teka, hindi pa nga kami magsyota eh presko na sya? Nang umupo kami sa sofa eh bigla nya akong hinalikan. Aba, nataranta ako!!! “Wait!!! Shuhada, what is this?” tanong ko sa kanya. “What do you think habibi?” Sabay kindat at tingin niya sa kin ng super-lagkit. Napagtanto-tanto ko ang ibig niyang sabihin, so medyo panic ako. “Oh noooo no! I’m not even your girlfriend yet!” Biglang tawa ni Ahmed, “hahahahahaha”, para siyang si Ruel Vernal. “Habibi, you cannot be my girlfriend, not even my wife. You are Filipina.” Sabe ba naman? “So why do you go out with me if you’re not going to make me your girlfriend?” pangungulit ko pa. “Habibi, we have fun only…no strings attached. No commitment, no problem!” tigas mukha nyang pinadiinan sa akin. Ang kapal ng mukha nya, Ate Annie! Again, nagdilim ang paningin ko, umikot ang paligid at gumuho ang mundo ko. “How dare you, I’m Dalagang Filipina – Maria Clara all the way!!!” pagmamalaki ko. Binigyan ko sya ng mag-asawang sampal sabay walk out. Simula noon, hindi ko na sinagot lahat ng phonecalls, text at Facebook messages nya. Ano palagay nya sa akin, kalapating mababa ang lipad? Excuse me!!!

Kaya heto ako ngayon, Ate Annie – sugatan na naman ang puso at bugbog na bugbog na ang damdamin. Bakit ba nangyayari ang mga ito sa akin? Mabait naman ako at masunuring anak, mapagbigay sa kapwa ko at lagging nananalig sa Maykapal – pero bakit parang sinasadya ng tadhana na paglaruan akong tuwing mapapasabak sa romansa ang puso kong ito? Bakit ako pa, what’s wrong with me?!!! Help naman, Ate Annie. Alam kong iksaw lang ang tanging makakatulong sa akin – given your extensive experience and world-renowned exptertise when it comes to matters of the heart. Bigayn mo naman akong na advice on how to catch the perfect guy and avoid the mistakes I did before. Puhleassseeeeee???

Lovingly yours,

Shawie

……………………….

Dear Shawie,

Sa palagay mo mauuto mo ako porque pinuri mo ako? Kung ako nga walang jowa eh sa palagay mo ikaw pa uunahin ko? Ako muna noh?!!! May pa-perfect guy ka pa dyang hinahanap, bakit perfect girl ka ba? Wala ka bang blackheads sa noo at warts sa leeg mo? Maputi ba ang batok mo at siko? Wala ka bang split ends? Hindi ka ba bad breath kapag bagong gising ka? Kaya mo bang sabihin ito ng paulit-ulit: “Peter Pieper picked a peck of picked pepper…???” May multiple entry US visa ka ba? Pwes, kung hindeh eh wala lang karapatan mag-ilusyon ng perfect guy kasi ikaw mismo hindi ka naman perfect girl. Gets mo?

Pasensya ka na kung medyo harsh itong sasabihin ko. Tatanga-tanga ka kasi eh. Sus, sa simula pa lang hindi mo na nakita ang signs? Campus heartrob papatol say o eh inamin mo na ngang hidi ka naman kagandahan – eh ano ngayon kung balingkinitan ang pangangatawan mo – si Zorayda Sanchez din naman maganda ang katawan ah? May kilala ka bang tunay na lalaki na nangongolekta ng bawat issue ng Cosmopolitan at Vogue? Yang mga foreigner akala mo uubra dyan ang pagpapakipot at pag-iinarte mo? Next time gamitin mo yang kukote mo ha, hija?

Sabi mo matalino ka, CPA ka – sana next time read above the lines – if it’s two goods to be truth, magpakatotoo ka, sister! Tigilan mo na ang kakapanood ng mga telenovela na yan – hindi ka naman kasing ganda ni Marian Rivera para mag-expect na may Dingdong Dantes na naghihintay sayo noh? Harapin mo ang katotohanan – huwag nang mag-ambisyon ng hindi mo naman kayang abutin.

Pag may nanligaw sa yo na mabait at masipag, miski maitim ang gilagid at high waisted eh patulan mo na. Huwag nang choosy, tigilan na ang Dairy Crème, Dapat sayo mag-Fita – Fight to Win!!!! O sya, take care b’coz I care.

Lubos na nagmamahal,

Ate Annie J

Find more Annie B Chronicles and Filipinisms here.

The post Annie B Chronicles: Kwentong OFW: Maalaala mo pa kaya? Magpakailanman appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Architect – Design Consultancy Firm Abu Dhabi

My Job

Residing in the UAE’s capital since 2008, I am blessed to have been practicing my profession as a design professional in varied contractor and consulting capacities to clients from all over the Emirates. To put words to what I do, I am involved in designing and executing architectural plans in building construction. Or in a more simplified way, I work with creativity and numbers to make a place for people to call a home, office or merely a place to gather.

More than using both the left and right sides of my brain at work, I am opportune to be social. I lead a design team and met with people including their Excellencies (Sheikhs), the government and the private sector. In places no less than what the UAE offers to the world -luxury and comfort, I feel favored to say that ‘I love my job’ not only due to its perks but also because of the experience of working in a multicultural environment.

Once there was a time that my understanding of the local norms (as applied to building interiors) had been put to a test. I had met a VVIP client in a prominent building in Downtown Dubai. In between consultations, it is inevitable that someone goes to the washroom for a bladder break which I, for one, took. In a search to do this, I had found a sign that looks like what we Filipinos or non-Arabs would associate as feminine (i.e. a face silhouette similar to a woman with a long hair as seen in the side view). Little to my knowledge, I entered the men’s toilet where I surprised a local guy clothed in the traditional kandura. All the while, the sign that I saw earlier was referring to the head of an Arab man wearing a keffiyeh. This short encounter had me thinking that every day is an opportunity to learn about a new culture.

It’s What I do: Gladys Mae Villa

My Typical Day

The body of my career was mostly built here in Abu Dhabi. It is, however, in no way different to others from across the globe. I check my emails first thing in the morning, do the bulk of my task to finish deadlines, occasionally go out of the office for site visits (even when I was pregnant) and drink lots of caffeine in between.

My Message to Filipinos

To all aspiring Filipinos hoping to start anew abroad, it isn’t all the comfort and luxury you see that makes the life of an OFW. Rather, it’s a mixture of hard work, resilience and openness. Hard work will bring you to what you need, resilience will keep you where you want to stay, and openness will lead you to what you dream of.

Design your work and build your design!

The post It’s What I do: Gladys Mae Villa appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai

“Paging all passenger of Emirates Airline EK 333 bound for Dubai. The boarding gate will close in ten minutes.”

Oh…my…goh-leeee….Dizzizit! In a few minutes, my dreams will about to be true! I will finally ride an airplane – a real one – not like the one in the perya that goes around 360 degrees Celsius Fahrenheit…….

So, wearing my furry ukay-ukay sweater, my Scottish-inspired skirt, scarf, beret (very French, huh?) and black knee-high socks with black shoes (I wanted boots, but my sister said I’d look like an Equistinarian without a horse!), I sashayed down to departure. I have to look like a real high class tourist – so the immigration will be convinced, since I only have a Visit Visa. The more I look like fashion model, the less they harass me – and ask silly questions.

Speaking of silly questions, here’s my question and answer portion at the immigration of NAIA; after seeing my passport, they wanted another ID, so I gave my old employee ID card. But it says that my name is Annie B. – yes, just plain Annie B. becoz that’s how everyone call me, becoz I love disco-ing and gimmick-ing. You know, like Annie Batungbakal? Nora Aunor? Jolina Magdangal? Halleer! And it also comes from my family name Batobalani – as in Batobal-ANNIE? Getsung mo?

But they ask if my passport is fake. “Sir, my real name is Daffodil Athena Calumpong Batobalani. Athena, for the Greek goddess of wisdom, and Daffodil, latin name: Narcissus Pseudo narcissus – because my mother said I was narcissistic even as an infant. “(Haaayyyy…)

“Who is this Floricel Calumpong that is sponsoring you?” Ano ‘to – Family Feud???!!!

“She is my cousin, sir. She is into the transportation industry. I am going to stay with her during my vacation in Dubai.”

And then the loud speaker spoke, “Last call for passenger of Emirates Airlines EK 333…”

Oh noooo!!!! “Sir, I have to go now, I will miss my flight.”

“Ok, you may go.” Thank Gooooodddd!!!

I finally arrived at the gate, about to make my grand entrance, when I noticed that my foundation melted with my sweat! I quickly wiped off the smudges with Gatsby Oil Control Film Strips. Remember Annie, Oilyness is next to ugliness – no, Voila! Fresh as a Ricky Reyes model!!! Ganda na uli ang lola nyo!!! I put on my Jackie O sunglasses. “Oooo….kaya nyo ba yan?”

I was seated beside two Pinoys. One looked like April Boy Regino complete with stone washed maong jacket, bull cap and huge, glittering bling-blings, the other like John Regala. They barely spoke but kept on staring at me all the time. Well, I can’t help it if they find me attractive, noh?!

Then all of a sudden, the rest of the passengers were also staring at me. “Ma’am, the seat belt sign is on, please fasten your seat belt. We’re taking off in a few seconds…” the stewardess told me.

“What seat belt? I’m afraid my seat has no belt. Maybe you need to transfer me….” I snapped back.

“Ma’am, you’re sitting on your seatbelt. Please fasten them now!” “Aaahh…so that’s what’s scratching my T-back underwear all this time – the seat belt!”

The plane started to move…Dizzizt!!! In a few hours, everything will change and my new life as a jetsetter will finally take place. Watch out, Dubai – here comes Annie B!

The post The Annie B. (Batobalani) Chronicles: “Jet Set” appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

There are many reasons why solo travel for women, especially for pint-sized Pinays like me, can be less popular or a bit more of a challenge for those wanting to spread her wings and explore the great beyond.

Raised in a country that values community over independence, with most parents usually overprotective of their girls (And for a good reason, particularly if you lived in Manila where there is always that 50-50 percent chance of falling prey to the next scammer) being an independent traveler is not exactly encouraged in the Philippines. But as with any kind of exploration, the rewards almost always outweigh the risks.

There is something extraordinarily exhilarating and powerfully liberating about heading out into the unknown on your own.

I realize that long before the release of Eat, Pray, Love and the popularity of “travel-while-your-single” blogs, I have often ventured out by myself.

It started with short trips, like going to the bookstore or the mall at age 11, progressing from short walks, to taking jeepneys, trains, and then one day, discovering the so-called Partas bus line in Cubao that would let me travel as far North as I wanted to be.

There is still nothing quite like the feeling of waking up to a bus load of strangers after an 8-hour bus ride, on a crispy morning and having a century-old rustic city like Vigan in Ilocos Sur laid out before you like a gift waiting to be opened. 

My very first trip abroad was a company sponsored press tour of Macau. I asked my boss if I could extend my trip to explore Hong Kong on my own.  Again, I’ll never forget the excitement of having to find my way to the budget hostel that I booked, tucked in the inner city streets with a tattoo parlor downstairs. I hauled my luggage onto the old-school elevator the size of a fridge and checked in on a room that seemed custom-built for my size.

At 20 years old, alone in a foreign land, I felt like I was being born again, the world was fresh and ripe with every kind of possibility. For a moment I was free from the judgment and the requirements of others.

Years later, after a couple more solo trips, I would find myself hauling my luggage once again, this time on the steps of the Metro in Paris and eventually finding my way to mini café sipping French wine and celebrating my decade-long declaration of independence.

Sure there are benefits in traveling with a group of friends, and seeing the Eiffel tower with the love-of-your-life must be the stuff of our Hollywood romcom daydreams come true, but I would still suggest women in their prime to go out of their comfort zones every once in a while and dare to experience the world like nothing else.

And before you launch into Les Miserables-level of self-pity and start pretending that “he is beside you”, consider for a moment the perks of traveling on your own.

Top 5 things you get from traveling on your own:

1. Your schedule (and your life) is your own. When you travel alone, you don’t need to adjust to the expectations of others. You don’t have to be somewhere at 8am if you don’ t want to.  You can sit in a park bench for as long as you like or go have a drink with a complete stranger without anyone telling you (except your inner intuition) not to.

2. You learn to rely on yourself. Self-sufficiency is key when traveling solo. Planning your itinerary, being responsible for your own safety, getting lost and finding your way – these are things that you are forced to master, and these skills will come in handy at any situation later on in life.

3. You learn to enjoy your own company. Lots of people are uncomfortable sitting by themselves, or eating alone by themselves. I am not one of those.  By traveling solo, I learned to enjoy a good cup of coffee on my own, or take a walk down quietly in a beautiful city alone with my thoughts. Often we are too crowded with our connections with other people that sometimes it is good to be reacquainted with yourself, and find solace in knowing that YOU are enough.

4. You get to meet other people. Traveling on your own doesn’t mean being lonely. In fact, most times it runs the opposite. Without the constraints of a group or a significant other, armed with anonymity, you can easily open up to strangers or even fellow travelers and have the most amazing time with them. A great way to explore a new place is meeting locals and sharing the experience.

5. You become more interesting.  I believe that when you travel solo, you get to have more “take-aways”.  Aside from the knick-knacks and fridge magnets you bring home, traveling adds to you, your soul, your personality, your history. You get to have more interesting anecdotes at dinner conversations, more stories to tell your spouse or your boyfriend, your future kids and grandchildren.  You actually get to own memories that belong only to you and that are yours to keep forever.

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Find more travel articles on Illustrado Life.

The post Solo Travel: On my Own appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

The Pinays Take Charge campaign is an advocacy project of Illustrado in line with the Women of Substance endeavor created to contribute to Filipina empowerment. The project seeks, not only to create a more positive image for Filipinas in the region, but also to assist in addressing problems and concerns relevant to Filipinas.

The Pinays Take Charge Guidelines have been written to provide simple guidance specific to prevalent Pinay issues in the region – to inform, educate and alert Filipinas to possible causes of problems. The information and provided herewith come from insights from countless Filipinas interviewed or who participated in the research of this project.

To know more about Pinays Take Charge or to be a part of this movement email us at: admin@illustrado.co, or call (+971 4) 365 4543. You can also visit our website: illustradolife.com or our Facebook Pages – Illustrado Magazine, Go Pinay.

Living in the Middle East

Bear in mind that the Middle East has a totally different culture to the Philippines and certain behaviors and practices, which are considered normal or are tolerated in the western world, can get you into trouble.

Some ‘simple things’ that can get a woman in trouble –

• Chatting and smiling innocently and referring to strange males as “My Friend”
• Accepting a ride from a stranger or going into a stranger’s flat
• Allowing unknown males into your home
• Dressing in clothes which are considered too revealing – i.e showing thighs (wearing shorts), uncovered shoulders, cleavage and other sensitive body parts, especially in public areas or locations where there are a lot of bachelors

Did you know that these things are prohibited, punishable by law and can get somebody in jail?

• Getting pregnant out of wedlock
• Having a physical relationship with a man who is not your husband
• “Living in” (cohabiting)
• Public display of affections – kissing, etc.

…………………………….

Dear Empowered Filipina,

We are fortunate to belong to a country and community where we are recognized, treated with respect and provided equal opportunities.

However, we still have a long way to go towards achieving our full potential, especially outside our own country where we are sometimes looked at negatively, or where we can easily fall into bad situations.

It’s time that we face our pressing issues and take control of our life.

We invite you to take the Pinays Take Charge Pledge which hopes to inform and remind you of some simple guidelines that should help you towards success, and to avoid problematic situations.

This is a project that hopes to contribute to the Empowerment of Filipinas around the world.

Let us all take one step forward.

Go Pinay!

Taas Noo, Filipino!

The PINAYS TAKE CHARGE Pledge

1. My body is my own. I will take care and protect it, knowing full-well that I should not depend on somebody else to do so, or to make that decision for me.

2. I will be careful in trusting others, especially strangers and strange men. I know that by befriending strangers, or putting my safety in the hands of people I don’t really know, I could be putting myself in danger.

3. I will be aware of the rules and understand the customs and cultural sensitivities of my host country, and will adhere to these without fail. Ignorance is not an excuse and could land me in trouble.

4. I will dress appropriately at all times. I will dress depending on the place, the occasion, the people I will meet and the environment that I am going to.

5. I will be aware of my verbal and body language. I will be careful with what I say and what I do. I know that my words, actions and Filipino friendliness can sometimes be misunderstood as a sexual come-on by strange men.

6. I will protect myself and fight back, whether verbally, physically or otherwise, if somebody attacks or harasses me or makes me feel threatened. I will show them that Pinays are strong and will not allow themselves to be victims.

7. I will nurture myself. I know my worth and I will not settle for less than what I deserve. I will be true to myself and continue to grow my talents, my skills, and passions as I tread the path towards success and true independence.

8. I will live with self-respect and will safeguard – not sell out – my values.

9. I will make my own decisions and understand that whatever choices I make, I will have to be responsible for them completely.

10. I will love myself, knowing that nobody else can love me as wholly and completely as I can, and that I cannot give love if I have no love.

The post About Pinays Take Charge appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.