Filipino Designers: Festive Filipiniana

Filipino Designers: Festive Filipiniana from Illustrado

 

Photography: Filbert Kung (Blackfox Photography)
Styling: Mike de Guzman & George Palmiano (MGP)
Makeup: Lilian Yeung
Hair: Mycke Arcano
Models: Peter Nordel and Grendel Alvarado (PMAP)


Not to be outshone by the brilliant season’s lights are these dazzlingly definitive Filipino pieces from the country’s designers with a penchant for our rich and unique sartorial heritage. 




On Grendel: Banana fiber dress with Tinalak weave, and black banana fiber sunvisor used as headdress, all by Dita Sandico-Ong; black and pink abaca headdress, tubular triple-strand gold necklace, and gold snakeskin bangle with stones by FIRMA; vintage gold chain necklace with flower accents and jade drop pendant by Estrellas Manila by Marge Abas; multi-linked ornamental gold neckpiece, antique gold ornamental bangle and gold Cleopatra arm cuffs, all by Dave Estien Quijano; gold fully-beaded arm cuff by Nicole Whisenhunt.

Read full article and see more photos about "Festive Filipiniana" http://goo.gl/xRiFZ7

Financial Planning: Investing in the New Year

Financial Planning: Investing in the New Year from Illustrado

By Francisco J. Colayco

Christmas is a time to celebrate and be with family and friends. It also falls on the last few days of the year when everyone is preparing for the New Year also. As Christians, we use this season to improve our spiritual life as we remember the birth of Jesus Christ. But we could also use this time of the year to plan for the improvement of our financial life. My message for your New Year financial planning is: INVEST NOW!

Image: http://www.dreamstime.com/-image22887962

Investment Literacy Is Key

For the past years, we have been harping on the central message that to build wealth is an obligation. With the bright economic conditions with us today and even brighter economic prospects in the next three to five years, it is imperative that we focus today on investment literacy. The medium-to-long term future cannot be brighter as we have it today. If you, as income earner, miss the opportunity to participate in our capital markets in the next five years, you will be regretting it for the rest of your life.


If you had decided earlier to secure your financial future, you probably would have put away some savings by now. But as we always say, earning and saving money is a prerequisite, not a guarantee, to achieve financial comfort. It is prudent and correct investing that will ensure your financial independence.

Read full article about "Financial Planning: Investing in the New Year"  http://goo.gl/BMII3i

Antulang Beach Resort: Holidays are Forever!

Antulang Beach Resort: Holidays are Forever! From Illustrado

By Krip Yuson

Now, wouldn’t that be nice? For most of us, however, it would take a Grand Lotto win to fulfill that dream — of dropping everything that has nothing to do with rest and recreation, and embark on a holiday for the remainder of our lives.


Oh, it need not only be during the Yuletide season when we’d feel generous, with everyone and then ourselves. Hand me millions, preferably in six figures, and not in lira either — and I’ll show you how much of a Santa I can be the whole year round.


And while sharing the bounty, well, so will I just as generously indulge my own yen for non-stress pleasure, by traveling to places I have yet to experience, and returning to those that already hold good memories.

Tambobo Cove hosts a hundred international pleasure craft at any time of year

A world cruise I would take in doses, if only to preempt satiety. Two-three weeks here, two-three weeks there, from St. Petersburg to the Hebrides, the Galapagos to Macchu Piccu and Iguassu Falls, Bhutan and Easter Island, etc., book-ended by cruises in the Mediterranean, Aegean, Caribbean seas. And each time a sked is completed, why, back home to Metro Manila I will fly, if only to reaffirm how I may now smile over the vagaries of road traffic or shenanigans in governance, what with fresh memories of an Alaskan iceberg or samba dancers at Rio de J.’s Mardi Gras.


And when the political grandstanding or air pollution once again threaten the sense of equanimity, one recently energized by yet another first-class fix that has stamped global vagabonding with yet another sampler of an endless summer, why, right here in our islands may be found — so easily reached — pockets of paradise, enclaves of nirvana, outright oases.

Read full article about "Antulang Beach Resort" http://goo.gl/n6zhS3

Destination Turkey: Travel to Turkey

from Illustrado

Mary Rose Dalocanog

Destination: TURKEY

What is the destination known for?

Turkey is known for being transcontinental, a country spanning more than one continent. Due to its huge size, Turkey has many cities and regions and most of them are famous by themselves. Istanbul, historically known as Constantinople, has been declared as a European Capital of Culture in 2010. This city is full of history and glimpses of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires are found everywhere. The region of Cappadocia is famous for its amazing geographical formations such as rock cut churches and fairy chimneys as well as its underground cities that could sustain thousands of people. Pamukkale town is known for its white travertines and the healing powers of its cascading waters. Ephesus is the best preserved classical city in the Mediterranean, even better than Rome itself and it is also where you can see the house in which Mother Mary spent the last years of her life in Nightingale Mountain.

How to get there?

There are daily direct flights from Dubai to Istanbul on Emirates and Turkish Airlines. For budget travelers, FlyDubai has very affordable fares. Travelling within Turkey is also very convenient with their efficient train system as well as comfortable buses. Since Turkey is big, approximately 1700 kilometers from East to West, the best way to travel internally is through their domestic airlines. Pegasus, Anadolu Jet, Onur Air and Sun Express are some of the few airlines travelling domestically.

Read more about Travel to Turkey: http://goo.gl/d9XA6I

Christmas In Philippines: The “X” in Xmas

Christmas In Philippines: The “X” in Xmas from Illustrado

 

By Aby Yap




Sure, they claim we have the merriest and longest Yuletide celebration. We already know that! Ho-hum. Kailangan pa bang i-memorize iyan?! But what accounts for that “X,” or that something eXtra, which puts us on top of the Certified Christmas Parteee People unprecedented list? And that which adds to our expenses, exhaustion, and most of all, excitement come Xmas season? 

Oh, Carol

Yes, be ready. Be very ready. Those kids you never knew existed in your neighborhood will come and get you, or rather, your cash as they do their nightly rounds of pangangaroling this December...

 Read full article about 'The “X” in Xmas' http://goo.gl/l1Iy12

   

Christmas Giving – Scrooge or Not?

Christmas Giving – Scrooge or Not? - from Illustrado

By Sherry Tenorio

Let’s face it. It has become difficult to simply give love on Christmas Day – especially if the wishlist consists of an iPad, a Louis Vuitton bag, a DSLR camera, a sleek laptop, and so on. And the financial pressure escalates with the size of one’s family, circle of friends, or even neighborhood back home. This month, Illustrado explores the shopping carts of the Pinoys in the Middle East, to find out if, after all the economic difficulties in the past, we are still generous Santas geared to make our loved ones material wishes come true, or we’re sending out Hallmark cards with the words, ‘it’s the thought that counts.’ 

shutterstock_129320129

At this time of the year, it has been observed that one of the most asked questions between Pinoy expats is: “Uuwi ka ba sa Pasko?” And more often than not, the answer is either – “Oo, excited na nga ako kahit malaki gastos” or “Hindi, magastos umuwi pag Pasko.” With these remarks, it would seem that the common notion about celebrating Christmas back home is now correlated to spending too much money. Although every one would perhaps want to come home for Christmas, the financial expenses that could exhaust a year’s savings and credit card limit have become hindrances. From peak season air fare, to ‘pasalubongs,’ plus budget for the season’s festivities, spending the holidays with families in the Philippines has been a challenging task for most international Filipinos.


But even those who opt to stay away from their families are also financially-challenged, as they still try to make up for their absence by sending home generous gifts – cameras, cell phones, clothes, shoes, expensive bags, even jewelries – usually sent through ‘balikbayan boxes’.


It is very sweet and thoughtful of Pinoys to provide for their families the way they do. Yet, do Pinoys abroad need to be overly generous (even those who can afford to be) this Christmas, considering the financial difficulties of the past years, and the economic uncertainties in the future? Or, shall they be pragmatic and resort to giving inexpensive yet still thoughtful gifts to their loved ones? Where do Pinoys draw the line when it comes to being generous?

Read full article about "Christmas Giving – Scrooge or Not?": http://goo.gl/7insJt

 

Beating the OF (Overseas Filipino) Christmas Blues

Beating the OF (Overseas Filipino) Christmas Blues from Illustrado

By Lalaine Chu-Benitez

It’s the best of times; it’s the worst of times…

What could be bad about the best and most joyous part of the year – when everybody’s supposedly in high spirits and all around you are the dazzling signs of a holiday in full swing? Being away from your family, perhaps? Being alone, thousands of miles from home where the season is celebrated like no other in the world?

Image via shutterstock_85742344

Ever heard of “OF (Overseas Filipino) Christmas Blues?”

For any important occasion in the year – be it Christmas, New Year, Valentines, anniversaries, birthdays, et cetera, which is usually spent with family and loved ones – being away from home is always a tough. According to renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Mitchell Flaum, isolated individuals may feel depression during this time of the year as the traditional image of warm loving families during the holiday season creates expectations that cannot always be fulfilled.

Read full article of "OF (Overseas Filipino) Christmas Blues": http://goo.gl/aSpKsG

My Christmas Wishlist: Dear Santa

My Christmas Wishlist: Dear Santa from Illustrado

I know I’ve been a good girl, lalo na this year. Alam ni Lord na ginawa ko ang lahat upang maging isang mabuting girlfriend, loyal best friend at concerned citizen. I tried my best and gave my all to make this world a better place for all mankind – sad to say, hindi lahat ng efforts ko ay nagtagumpay at nasuklian ng mga ginintuang balato – I guess hindi lahat ng bagay sa mundong ito ay nakatakdang mangyari ayon sa kagustuhan ko. Aaminin ko, may times I questioned your existence every holidays – kasi naman, parang andaming okray na naganap sa buhay ko this year. Pero hindi bale, alam kong when God closes a door…ah basta alam mo na yun. Maaring may dahilan kung bakit nangyayari ito, but I still believe in world piece, so help me God. I thank you.


Simula pa sa pagkabata, laging sinasabi ni Nanay na magpakabait lang daw ako siguradong madami akong pwedeng hilingin sa yo. Pwes, since I believe and I insist na mabait ako, here is my wishlist for this coming holidays:


 

 

Read full article for Dear Santa... http://goo.gl/zWO86u

5 Things to Do this Month of December

5 Things to Do this Month of December from Illustrado

By Sherry Tenorio
When December comes, our lives are filled with activities that revolve around the word ‘celebrate.’ Back home, people have been busy shopping for the Christmas gifts, attending Christmas parties and thinking about sumptuous meals to whip up for Noche Buena. Here in far mid-east, we may not be able to feel exactly the same festive spirit, we know that we can still try to have a good time and enjoy the season. This month in Illustrado, we give you a lowdown on how to plan a merry Christmas and a fabulous New Year. Take note of our year-ender tips, and you’ll have the greatest month for sure.

Image via Flickr: Andy Noren

Give gifts on Christmas day

As the old adage goes, Christmas is the day of giving. That is why we should still adhere to the tradition, and live up to it in our own ways. There is no need to buy expensive gifts – meaningful gifts that come out of thoughtfulness and sincerity are what we have to give away. Box of sweets for office colleagues, small mementos to housemates, greeting cards and charming favors for friends and loved ones would actually make the spirit of Christmas fill the air. The shopping malls all over the city coupled with outdoor souks in Global Village and The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence have tons of discount offerings in time for the season. And aside from giving gifts to those who are dear to us, we can also go and donate some of our blessings to the less fortunate through charity organizations.

Continue reading full story:  http://goo.gl/hi57tg

- Nurture your spirit

- Ponder on 2014, and write goals for 2015

- Welcome the fabulous New Year

 

Travel the Philippines: Beyond the Gravestones

Travel the Philippines: Beyond the Gravestones from Illustrado

 

Beyond the Gravestones

By Excel V. Dyquiangco
 
Since November is all about the dead – one might as well take a visit to the interesting graveyards of Manila, which not only provide fascinating architectural talking points, but a peek into history, including the past lives of some of the country’s most influential figures. Before you shy away from the idea though, consider that the sprawling landscapes, the majestic and intricate monuments actually do speak volumes, providing one a distinctly weird, but wonderful appreciation of how those who have passed are paid homage long before they are gone.

Manila Chinese Cemetery

There is no question why this is called the Manila Chinese Cemetery – the structures that abound remind visitors of a Jackie Chan movie with its historic and exotic molds depicted in any one of his scenes. Chinese halls, memorials and temples with its unique designs all adorn the gateway to the second oldest cemetery in Manila.
Guests are treated to one of the grandest Chinese temples in Manila at the entrance, the Chong Hock Tong Temple, which is different from other temples since this was built in the 1800s. Its architecture is similar to the ones located in the Fujian province in the southeast coast of China, and the elaborate structures of temples in Singapore and Malaysia with their upturned eaves and colorful wall paintings.
The Martyrs Hall (Liat See Tong) was constructed to give honor and recognition to the Chinese community leaders who were put to death by the Japanese during World War II. Not as grandiose as some of the other temples, but still worthwhile seeing in lieu of the portraits of the martyrs and the bit history (in Chinese, though) in its four walls.
Other notable places within the Chinese Cemetery are the Carlos Palanca Memorial, or the Tan Quien Sien in gratitude to the efforts of the famed Chinese businessman and leader for giving the Chinese proper burial sites during the Spanish regime, and the Ruby Tower Memorial where hero Apolinario Mabini used to be buried. The mausoleums are also a sight to behold. Much like the houses in pre-modern China, they emulate a rich man’s house – usually a two-storey structure with a terrace or a patio, and no windows.


See more places...

Continue reading full story and more photos here: http://goo.gl/p6Qqn6

- Manila American Cemetery

- Libingan ng mga Bayani

- Manila North and South Cemeteries

 

Filipino Arts: Love at the Center Stage

Filipino Arts: Love at the Center Stage from Illustrado

By Shar Matingka

Dark chocolate: a taste of decadence, a dance of inner bliss, a memory of clandestine moments, a faint trace of bitterness overpowered by sweet triumph and love. It is the most fitting simile to performing arts couple, Jojo Mamangun and Kris-Belle Paclibar – young and exuding radiant passion for expressing the complexity of life, and the stories of epic fantasy, as well as abstract sensuality of desire through dance. Jojo and Kris-Belle have the uncanny ability to nourish our daydreams where we place ourselves on a stage fairly lit and only dance makes up for words unspoken.

 

Humble Beginnings

Jojo spent his early school days in Baguio where he discovered his interest in indigenous musical instruments and gradually acquired a keen sense for visual arts. When it was time for him to leave the cool mountain air set against the colorful ethnic backdrop that is Baguio, he carried with him the promising visage of a charming Filipino meant to become an artist. From North he went South to pursue a future in visual arts, an advocate of indigenous music at the prominent Philippine High School for the Arts. However, destiny had written something else for the young Jojo. With no courses available in the craft he had hoped to study, he landed in Folk Dance and unexpectedly did quite well. Years later, he earned a scholarship in Performing Arts majoring in Dance at the College of St. Benilde and simultaneously, an apprenticeship in Ballet Philippines. With the support and encouragement of his family, Jojo was on the verge of conquering his future in dance.

Continue read full article: http://goo.gl/y4tdRp

Nang Maghalo ang Balat sa Tinalupan

Nang Maghalo ang Balat sa Tinalupan from Illustrado

I miss my friends. Yung mga naiwan ko sa Pilipinas. Yung mga nakakasama kong mag-shopping sa Greenhills at Divisoria, lalo na kapag may Midnight Madness Sale sa mga mall. Yung palagi kong nakakaladkad sa parlor, sa sinehan, sa peryahan, pati sa cutting classes. Yung mga nakaka-telebabad at ka-text ko miski anong oras. Yung kinikilig kapag kinukwentuhan ko ng mga crush ko, mga naiiyakan ko kapag sawi ako sa lovelife ko. It’s a pity that we had to part ways. Some got married na and are raising kids now. Yung iba naman busy sa kanilang mga lovelife at careers. Ako naman eto, dakilang bagong bayani ng bayan – nagsasakripisyo para sa pamilya at kinabukasan kaya’t malayo sa piling nila.


It’s hard to find true friends nowadays. Mahirap makahanap ng mga taong makakaintindi sa yo and who will accept you for who you are. Syempre dapat pareho kayo ng taste – sa damit, sa sapatos, sa music, sa pelikula, sa lalake, pati sa paboritong artista. Kapag maka-Kimerald ka natural hindi kayo magkakasundo ng mga DongYan fans. Tamo mga Vilmanians, hindi pwedeng makipag-bonding sa mga Noranians. A Kapamilya will never like a Kapuso. Gets mo? Si Manny Pacman lang yata ang pwedeng mag-unite sa ating mga Pinoy eh. Teka, I degrees.


Hindi kasi ako madaling magkaroon ng friends. Ewan ko ba, pero mas madaming may ayaw sa akin kesa sa may gusto – feeling ko ha? Eh kasi kakaiba daw ako – weirdo, loud at eccentric. Yan ang madalas na first impression sa akin. Eh di ba first impression is last? Kaya siguro kokonti lang ang lumalapit sa akin – hindi man lang nila ako binibigyan ng benefit of the daw. Kasalanan ko ba na istariray ako? Pinalaki kasi ako ng mga magulang ko na huwag magpapa-api. Dapat daw sa classroom, sa harapan ako lagi uupo. Kapag may gusto akong sabihin dapat daw isigaw ko para siguradong maririnig ako. At hindi raw dapat lahat ng uso eh sundin ko, dapat daw eh magkaroon ako ng self identity. Yan ang mga pabilin sa akin nina Nanay at Tatay. Kaya siguro ganito ako ka-confidence. I believe in self expression, individualism and originality. Ayoko maging back up singer lang, dapat ako ang laging bida – parang si Beyonce, si Nicole Scherzinger… si Kuh Ledesma! Wala naman sigurong masama to aspire to be the best, di ba? Well kanya-kanya yan – whatever rocks your vote, makes no difference who you are. Yun na!


Kaya naman blessing in the sky for me when I met my BFF Sheila. First time ko pa lang sya nakilala sa office magaan na loob ko sa kanya. Pareho kasi ng costume sa Halloween Party namin noon. Habang lahat eh naka-witch at vampire outfits eh namukod-tangi kaming dalawa sa suot naming Lady Gaga costumes. Biruin mo, sino ang mag-aakala na merong ibang kayang maglakas-loob magsuot ng ganun bukod sa akin? Sabi ko, “Ay, chica tong gurlash na itich! Winner!” Nang sumuot ako sa isang gusot, sya lang ang nagtanggol sa akin. Mula noon, sabay na kami mag-lunch, magsimba sa St. Mary’s, mag-marathon sa panonood ng “Glee” at “Magkaribal”, mag-window shopping sa Louis Vuitton, mag-panic buying sa Outlet Mall, gumimik sa Chika Grill at kumain ng okoy sa Delmon. I also introduced her to my suking parlor, my flatmates, my carlift and to my significant other… si Adam my love.


Sarap ng feeling nang muli akong magkaroon ng confidante, alliance at partner in crime. Para akong nagkaroon ng instant kakambal – kasi pati sa pananamit madalas eh pareho kami ng outfits. Pati mga expression ko bukambibig na rin nya all of a suddenly. Finally, someone that understands me and accepts me for what I am – my new BFF! Kaya magmula noon I shared na my life with her, lalo na kapag dumarating at lumalabas kami ni Adam, sya ang third wheel all of the time. Pero just like in the movies, I soon discovered na Three is a Crowd pala.


Kamakailan lang ay nakigamit ng laptop si BFF. Nang matapos mag-internet ay nagpaalam sya at umuwi na. Nang gamitin ko ang laptop, naiwan nyang naka-log in ito sa Fezbook account nya. Bago ako mag-log out, nabasa ko ang info sa kanyang account. Name: Sheila May Smith??? Relationship Status: Married??? At eto na: In a Relationship with Adam Smith???!!! Teka, pangalan ng jowa ko yun ah! Anu itu??? Hindi naman ito yung Fezbook account ni BFF Sheila ah? So right there and them, nadiskubre kong may secret second account ang hitad. Binasa ko yung ibang info… Activities: shopping, eating, shopping, eating… Interests: fashion, movies, boys… Music: Madonna, Lady Gaga, Sharon Cuneta… Books: Macbook… Movies: Titanic, The Notebook, Temptation Island…Television: Sex & The City, Glee, Magkaribal… Hmmmm. Teka, bakit pareho lahat ng sa akin toh? Click sa Photos… Natulala ako sa mga nakita ko. Aba, puro mga pictures ni BFF Sheila at Adam – actually kilala ko yung mga pictures na yun eh – kasama talaga ako dun sa mga pictures pero na-crop na bigla sa Photoshop!!! Tapos yung mga solo shots nya puro mga damit ko ang suot nya… aba pati yung profile pic nya, kapareho ng hairstyle ko tsaka damit ko…Oh-Em-Gee, ginagaya nya ako! Stroker!!!


Tapos binuksan ko yung mga messages nya. Sa Sent Messages, puro kay Adam lahat! Binasa ko ang isa: “ Hi honey, how r u? Wen r u going 2 b bak hir in Dubai? Miss u much. I-T-A-L-Y. =) Mwuah!”


P*^%$#@%#*&^!!! Ang kapal ng fez! Nanginig ako…


Continue reading: http://goo.gl/FV6eXv

Pinoy Entrepreneur: Mindmill Ideation Co.

Pinoy Entrepreneur: Mindmill Ideation Co. 

from Illustrado

Abu Dhabi – UAE

Esmeraldo “Esmi” and Emily “Loi” Pangilinan

 

Please describe your business.

Mindmill Ideation Co. is a creative boutique studio. We are a graphic design and photography company providing visual communications and other related services for marketing and advertising use.


Why did you establish your own business? Can you tell us when and how you started?

I think everyone would want to have his own business. The other reason is that I think creativity can flourish more if one has more control in the creative process.

We started in May 2004 as a simple arts and craft shop with photography services. Our initial operation included activities involving workshops for kids, servicing small clientele like some fine dining restaurants and mini-mart chains. We also did mural paintings in the beginning and some art deco concepts for wall decorations and fittings for start up hotels. One unique product we did and still do is styrofoam and paper sculpture for some event. Our photo services incorporate events, press conferences in addition to one-on-one shoots.

Read full Article: http://goo.gl/fpbI1U

Reason to Travel Dumaguete: The Ultimate Food Trip

Reason to Travel Dumaguete: The Ultimate Food Trip from Illustrado

Story by KC M. Abalos 

Photos by Aby R. Yap 

 

I didn’t really know what’s there to see in Dumaguete. But when my friends asked me if I wanted to come along on a vacation, I immediately said yes. Primarily because I’m “kaladkarin”, which means someone who will go anywhere, anytime, but I was also curious as to what can be seen there. It doesn’t exactly scream party like Boracay or adventure like Palawan.





Before we left, I researched a bit and a few clicks on the net proved that are many things to see and do in Dumaguete. As the capital of Negros Oriental, it mirrors the province’s unique cultural heritage and diversity. It is also the main seaport, as evidenced by the promenade along Rizal Boulevard which overlooks the Tañon Strait. It enjoys a distinctive reputation as a university town because it is home to several schools and colleges, including the historic Siliman University.


While there, we went snorkeling in Apo Island. We saw dolphins and were further hoping to see whales in Bais. Alas, we did not see any, but the dolphins were plenty enough to delight and amuse us. A visit to picturesque Lake Balinsasayao or “fun forest Camp,” is also a must visit for those who prefer to stay on dry land. The city’s close proximity to Siquijor, Cebu, and Bohol make it a convenient stop for backpackers traveling around the central Visayan region.


Known as the City of Gentle People, we were greeted with warmest smiles impressing on us the city’s hospitality. The people are used to tourists so they’ll gladly help however they can. Everyone speaks English so foreigners won’t feel lost. So as a travel junkie I highly recommend the city as a must visit on one’s travel list to Negros Oriental. But what really makes Dumaguete a special place to visit is… the food!

See full story and photos in Traveling to Dumaguete: http://goo.gl/OA7Fxt 

What Makes A Truly Wise Filipino or Known As “The Wais Pinoy”

What Makes A Truly Wise Filipino or Known As “The Wais Pinoy” from Illustrado

 

On the nth day, God said, “Let there be a shower of resourcefulness.” And all Pinoys rushed outdoors, eager to grab the freebie from heaven. Many brought out containers—wine bottles, tabos, timbas, palangganitas, palangganas, steel drums, and what have you—to save some for the rainy, er, dreary days.


Consequently, some have become more amusingly or annoyingly wais than others.

 

Long Live the Lumens (and Lola Obangs)

Recession or not, truly wais Pinoys know how to make tipid all they can! So aside from going to the mall and enjoying free A/C (and free water c/o the fast food, free taste c/o the grocery, free reading c/o the bookstore, free sightseeing c/o the shops), we wait for the magic word that’s “Sale!” Three-day, midnight, factory, bazaar (where “tawad” and “wholesale” are the secret codes) sale: these are the times we look forward to every year of our lives to shop for what we need (or don’t) at half the cost, which is the minimum requirement. Some rolls of tissue paper to last ‘til our next lifetime, bed sheets and bath towels of all sizes, complete sets of frying pans and cooking pots, Christmas cards in April, swimwear in December—as long as they’re on sale, we’ll certainly find a use for them…somehow. Well, what are those balikbayan boxes for?  Someone back home may be in dire need of a tissue roll.


With the wais Pinoy, nothing ever goes to waste, too. We find even the cow’s bone marrow, the pig’s intestines, the chicken’s feet, the fish’s eyes, uh, appetizing, don’t we? Never mind aesthetics, anything edible is precious. One meal’s leftover is usually served for the next meal and another and even the day/s after (especially if it’s adobo, the dish that never gets spoiled no matter what), until the platter is licked clean. Even Muning would be too embarrassed to check if there’s a morsel left by any chance. Otherwise, leftover meat and veggies can be chopped into bits to whip up a helping of gourmet fried rice. Oh, and lest we forget, another amazing recycling feat, remember the teabag—that which serves us until its last trace of flavor, giving color to several cups of hot water. And we still refuse to toss it aside without putting it on swelling eye bags!


Indeed, recycling works wonders. So we bring home plastic utensils and Styrofoam cups from fast food chains, along with ketchup sachets, to form part of our “For Kiddie Parties” tableware collection. For our stay-in house guests, any hotel’s complimentary kit (mini shampoo bottles/bath soap/shower caps/toothbrushes/toothpaste tubes/matches) and flight “giveaways” (salt/pepper/sugar/butter/jam packets or sleep mask/ear plugs/blankets/magazines)—which we keep for souvenir’s sake, so we say—come in handy. We turn shopping bags into garbage bags, soft drink bottles into water pitchers, and gin bottles—your choice of bilog or lapad—into cooking oil containers. Glossy magazine pages and even the newspaper’s comics section are transformed into fashionable book and notebook covers.


So, careful with unwrapping those presents! The wrapper and ribbon can still be used for someone else’s birthday present or the next Christmas party decor. And if what’s inside the package doesn’t work much for you, recycling gifts—done very discreetly—is a wais practice, too.

Read full Article: http://goo.gl/wvqkrK

How PHP20 Grew To Millions

How PHP20 Grew To Millions from Illustrado

By Bo Sanchez

 

We give gifts not only to our loved ones, friends, co-workers, or clients. More than any time of the year, the Christmas season is also the time people give gifts to the less fortunate, visit homes for the elderly, orphans, street children, women in crisis, even those in prison.
But let me tell you about people who give not only during Christmas, but also all year round. 


Here’s my story…

 

It all started with P20.

 
In 1979, Rey Ortega was having breakfast with four friends.

While reading the newspaper, his eye caught an article about 200,000 out-of-school street kids in Metro Manila.

The figure blew his mind. He couldn’t believe it. 200,000 kids on the streets?

He told his four friends about it and pulled out his wallet. “Look, I have an extra P20 here. We may not be able to help 200,000 street kids, but if we chip in, we can send at least one of these kids back to school.”

Immediately, his friends agreed. And together, they marched to Tipas Elementary School in Taguig, Rizal.

They talked to the principal and asked, “Do you know of a student graduating from Grade 6 who can’t go on to high school because of poverty?”

The principal said yes. “Her name is Rodora Lopez.”
So Rey sent Rodora to school.

The following year, he sent another one.

The year after that, he sent another.

And he has not stopped ever since.

Continue reading: http://goo.gl/AK3crJ

A Remarkably Relaxing Travel to Cape Town and the Winelands

A Remarkably Relaxing Travel to Cape Town and the Winelands from Illustrado 

By Al Manlangit

Arrive airport – 09.30hrs. Pick up Avis car – 10.00hrs. Drive to Stellenbosch – 1030hrs. Photograph scenic route. That was the itinerary I wrote before we enplaned in Johannesburg for the two-hour flight to Cape Town. And that’s exactly what we did right on the dot. The only thing I didn’t expect was that the scenery along the 50km route from the airport to the Winelands was more magnificent than I could have imagined.

The wine-producing region in South Africa extends through four popular towns: Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, West Somerset and Paarl. All are within a short driving distance from each other through various routes that have breathtaking views of mountain ranges, evergreen valleys filled with fruit orchards and pastoral plains with nothing but grass, sheep and blue sky.

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Kayaking Adventure Through the Abra River

Kayaking Adventure Through the Abra River 

from Illustrado

Text By Vic Lactaoen  
Photos by Brian Bravo

The current craze in water sports hits anew with the growing popularity of river kayaking. One kayaking hub sought after area in Northern Luzon is the famous Abra River in the Cordillera autonomous region.

 

Often glossed over in tourist brochures and travel guides on Northern Philippines, the province of Abra holds a storehouse of simple pleasures for the traveler who wants to imbibe nature and adventure in refreshing doses. Although Abra has never made it to the list of favorite destinations in the north, except for the corny soft drink commercial on television where four traveling teeners passed through a dark-eerie looking tunnel. The tunnel used in that commercial is called the Tangadan Tunnel, one of the official landmarks of Abra Province.


Parallel to the tunnel is the river unknown to many, but is one of the exciting new destinations in adventure tourism comparable to the waves with Futaleyu, Chile, Apurinmac in Peru and Ciruh in Turkey.

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Inspirational Principles of Financial Life to Start a New Year

Inspirational Principles of Financial Life to Start a New Year - Illustrado

 

Let me greet you all a Joyful, Peaceful, Healthy and Prosperous 2015!

It is time to take stock and change or reform ourselves for the better. Nobody is perfect and spiritual and inspirational articles abound to lift up our lives. What I noticed though is that we tend to compartmentalize our lives. In particular, our financial lives are considered by most as separate from their spiritual and intellectual activities. The fact is that all of these are intertwined. Since I have focused my advocacy on teaching personal financial management, I frequently interpret these inspirational principles in the light of our financial lives.

 

Borrowed from Mac Anderson’s “The Nature of Success”, Mr. Anderson talks about a lesson he learned from a friend’s grandmother.   Mac was having such a rough week and his friend shared with him what his grandmother told him to always remember: ‘Inch by inch, life’s a cinch. Yard by yard, life is hard.’

Mac took the line to heart and took out a piece of paper and listed all the things he had to do in the next three days. As he finished each task, he crossed it out from the list. Three days later, he crossed out the last task left on the list. He felt great!

As Mac explains, “…Success doesn’t come cascading like Niagara Falls; it comes one drop at a time through short-term, realistic goals. If you believe you can do something (the goals are realistic), you’re likely to be highly motivated. If, however, you think you can’t (because the goals are unrealistic) your motivation level falls greatly…”

The same principle applies in each one’s personal financial life. I keep emphasizing the same principle as explained in “Making Your Money Work”.


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Filipino Innovation on Changing Our Mindset About Wealth from Illustrado

Filipino Innovation on Changing Our Mindset About Wealth 

From Illustrado

By: Bo Sanchez

WHEN I was told that this issue is about Pinoy Innovation, I quickly got my book, 8 Secrets of the Truly Rich. If I may say so, the book is a Pinoy innovation presenting a new view about wealth for Pinoys. I tackled the issue right away in the preface of the book:

This Book Is About Changing
Your Inner Software

I believe we Filipinos have been programmed to be poor. Especially Filipinos rose with crazy religious beliefs. For over 25 years, I’ve been working among the poor, living in their homes, and helping them get out of poverty. I’ve found out that no matter how much money they receive, unless they change their inner program, nothing happens. They will remain poor forever.

Continue Reading full story here: http://goo.gl/FoZdMM

 

Filipino Dubai: The First Terno Ball in the UAE from Illustrado

Filipino Dubai: The First Terno Ball in the UAE

From Illustrado

Photos by Eros Goze

Filipino Culture showcased at prestigious Terno Ball in Dubai

Illustrado, under the patronage of the Diplomatic Ladies of the Philippine Consulate General together with the Ladies of the Filipino Community in the UAE hosted a unique and prestigious showcase of Filipino culture in the United Arab Emirates for a select group of VIPs. 

 

The Terno Ball, attended by some 300 diplomatic dignitaries, as well as leading community figures, was held on the 7^th of November at The Atlantis Hotel – The Palm Jumeirah.  A highlight of the event is the “Rigodon de Honor” – a traditional Filipino-Spanish quadrille folk dance, performed by select Philippine Consulate General staff members.  Dancers from the United International Private School and the Filipino Dancesport Social Club performed folk dances “Sayaw sa Bangko” and “Tinikling.”  Filipino fashion designers, including Michael Cinco, Ezra Santos, Jimi Buenconsejo, Bandoix Flores, Carla Fuentes, Alberr Fontanilla, Bambi Alcantara and Nelson Buhain, also showcased one-of-a-kind Filipiniana-inspired couture gowns.


According to Mrs. Lucila Cimafranca, wife of Philippine Consul General Frank Cimafranca and main patron of the event, “It is our hope that through this event, we will able to share and champion the magnificent beauty of the Filipino culture on the world stage. Many Filipinos have experienced great triumph in the UAE. This momentous gathering is an opportunity to pay tribute to these trailblazing kabayans, and also a chance for us to show our gratitude to the country and community that has been a truly gracious and generous host to the Filipino people.”
 

The event is sponsored by BMW, Ghena Tourism, Ayala Land International, Al Saif Group of Companies, The Farm at San Benito, Ariel Weddings and Rotana Hotel.


Special thanks to: MODELS: Ann Llagas, Glacy Marano, Benedickte Namia-Gamelgaard and FLC Models and Events; HAIR & MAKE-UP TEAM: Jhoana Nelissen, Yhence Sioting, Maricel and Bobby Caparas.

Young Hot Pinoy Trailblazers from Illustrado

Young Hot Pinoy Trailblazers

From Illustrado

By Nicai de Guzman with additional reporting by Nicholo Jallores

Photo from Shutterstock

They’re young, they’re good-looking, they’re intelligent, they’re talented. These young Filipino men seem to have it all. And with all their God-given gifts, they find purpose in giving pride to their country and serving their fellow Filipinos.


Meet these young men of good looks and substance who have made it to local and international news – out to save the world or make it just a tad better by simply existing for womenkind.


Here are the list of Young Hot Pinoy Trailblazers:



Click here to read full details about these Young Hot Pinoy Trailblazers!


1.) Kobe Paras: MVP


2.) Barney Almazar: Lawyer


 3.) Neil Perez: Mr. International


4.) Atom Araullo: Journalist


5.) Ronald Molit: Triathlete


6.) Paolo Ballesteros: Makeup


7.) Bryan McClelland: Socio- Ecological


8.) Wesley So: Chess Grandmaster


9.) Kevin Espinosa Murphy: Singer & Dancer


10.) Froilan Malit: Director of Labour Research


11.) Ramon Bautista: Internet Superstar


12.) Erwan Heussaff: Restaurateur


13.) Chino Roque: Astronaut


             

Trippin': Tagaytay Weekend

Trippin': Tagaytay Weekend

By Illustrado

 

Have a mini bakasyon grande every weekend by taking a short drive to the quaint countryside of Tagaytay. Ana Santos shows us that whether it’s just a few hours or a whole weekend you have to spare, there is always something to experience in Tagaytay.

 

Photo: Suronin – Dreamstime.com

 

 

 

 

Just a short 45-minute drive south of Metro Manila, the air is crisper, the view is better and everything just seems brighter. This is Tagaytay, the once quiet town that previously served as a gateway to its neighbor Batangas, Tagaytay is no longer just a place to get fresh vegetables on the way home.

Tagaytay Pineapples

See full story and view more photos in Trippin': Tagaytay Weekend http://goo.gl/4jZ5Nl

Filipinos in Thailand: My Pinoy life in Songkhla

Filipinos in Thailand: My Pinoy life in Songkhla

By Illustrado

Angel Jerlin Balais

 

Since when have you been staying there? Can you recount briefly why you moved there?

I came to Thailand in 2005 to join volunteers assisting programs for migrants and refugees at the Thai-Myanmar border. At that time, I was working as Educational Assistance Program Coordinator in Families and Children for Empowerment and Development (FCED) and a basic literacy educator in Tahanan Sta. Luisa, a drop-in center for young street girls below 18. I was also studying in U.P. Diliman, graduate program for a second degree in Social Work. The volunteer work opportunity was so difficult to ignore. So with support from my family who are also attached to community service, I flew to Thailand. In the first 3 months of my stay, I had been immersed in different settings, dealing with different issues in Southern and Northern Provinces of the Land of Smiles – as a replacement teacher in a school in Phattalung; to distribute relief goods for Burmese victims of Tsunami in Krabi, Phuket and Phang Nga; organize a learning center for the children of Burmese migrants in Mae Sot; visit refugee camps in Mae Ramat and also to reach-out to the stateless people, and Kareni tribes, in faraway, nameless mountains along the borders of Thailand. It was a life-changing experience indeed.

See more of her story, http://goo.gl/rRFAky

Filipino Designer: Illustrado Retro – Michael Cinco

Before he became known as the ‘impalpable one’ who creates million peso dresses, Michael Cinco, one of the world’s foremost Filipino designers was already larger than life.  Take a look into his colorful past as we backtrack on our first cover shoot with him in 2007.
 

ILLUSTRADO RETRO:  MICHAEL CINCO

From Illustrado Magazine
 
Story by Lalaine Chu-Benitez
 
Photography: Allan Desiderio
 
Model: Former Bb Pilipinas International 2002 Kristine Alzar
 
Hair and Make-Up: Basil Yunting
 
Shot at The One and Only Royal Mirage, Dubai

I asked Michael whether a specific designer influenced him. He answers, “I try not to be influenced by any designer. But I am ‘inspired” by the likes of John Galliano, as well as the Incas of Peru, the Mayans in Apocalypto, the marquee for the launches of the Palazzo Versace, including the wilted rose petal on my table, and the Curly Tops wrapper in the bin. I try to see beauty in everything.”
 

As a consummate fashion instigator, Michael puts a lot of importance on creativity and drama but insists that this must be balanced with reality. “It’s great to tell a story in every design but you must never forget that despite all the fantasy, the woman has to be satisfied and the dress has to be sold. I have to seduce woman into buying and wearing my clothes…that’s my role.”
 

With undeniable success in the local haute couture market, there’s nothing that even remotely resembles Michael’s cheeky mien and amusing dramatics, when it comes to his highly regarded body of work that has earned serious respect from his peers.  And inspite of it all, the designer still keeps a firmly rooted attitude attributing his success to hard work and luck. “I always believe that I’ve been lucky all the way. There are a lot of designers who work hard but don’t make it, he comments in earnest.


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