Filipino Designer – Insanity: A Look into the Madness of Rocky Gathercole

Filipino Designer – Insanity: A Look into the Madness of Rocky Gathercole (Illustrado)

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

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

Story By Lalaine Chu-Benitez
Photo by Filbert Kung
Styling, Hair and Make-Up by: Ginno Alducente
Model: Jasmine Maierhofer

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

Read full article: http://goo.gl/7HtZIg

10 Ways to Enjoy Honda Bay, Palawan

10 Ways to Enjoy Honda Bay, Palawan from Illustrado

By Niña Terol-Zialcita and Toni Alvarez



It was the late great French explorer and author Jacques Cousteau who labeled Palawan “the last refuge.” Indeed, this group of islands in the southwestern part of the Philippines presents Mother Nature in her purest and most unbridled: deep-blue waters teeming with rich biodiversity; virginal islands with lush green forests and powder-fine sand sans the bars and drunken crowds; fresh, succulent seafood worthy of a Michelin restaurant; and gentle people with a deep love for their culture and environment.


It would take weeks — even months — of intrepid exploring to fully suck the marrow out of Palawan. For those with limited time and just the right amount of resources, the best place to start is Honda Bay.


Located 45 minutes away by boat from Palawan’s capital city of Puerto Princesa, Honda Bay is a modest body of water surrounded by several islands and islets. Some of these islands are named matter-of-factly: Snake Island (for the shape of its sandbar), Starfish Island (for the abundance of starfishes on its shore), or Isla ng Puting Buhangin (for a sample of the whitest sand you will see on the planet). Others have names of foreign origin: Cowrie/Cannon Island, Señorita Island, and Arreceffi Island. One, in particular, is named for its unique feature — “Lu-li”, or “lulubog-lilitaw” — denoting how the island seems to sink and float, or appear and disappear, with the tides.

Photos by Toni Alvarez

Its names notwithstanding, the islands along Honda Bay offer traveler a unique combination of leisure, adventure, and indulgence. Here, we present our 10 favorite ideas to make the most of a Honda Bay holiday.

Read full article "10 Ways to Enjoy Honda Bay, Palawan"

Source: http://www.illustradolife.com/10-ways-to-enjoy-honda-bay-palawan/

Filipino Designer: Ezra Santos at Fashion Forward Season 2

Filipino Designer: Ezra Santos at Fashion Forward Season 2

Source: Illustrado

 

After being spoilt for choice year after year viewing the luxuriously elegant and sometimes out-of-this-world creations from what the local press calls Dubai’s couture kings – Cinco-One-Santos – one wonders what else is there within the context of the region’s own brand of decadently detailed couture. Enter Filipino designer Ezra Santos, at the “definitive opening show” at Fashion Forward’s second season’s first day, with a collection replete with clean details, and pure silhouettes, one could almost hear Dubai’s fashion world giving out a much needed long and cleansing elegant exhale.



Entitled Divine Romanticism – Ezra’s new offering inspired by the Art Deco and Art Nouveau movements pays homage to the 1920s golden era where glamour, beauty and art reigned supreme.




The collection had three highlights allowing the designer to delve into a braver more contemporary and fashion forward category, whilst at the same time providing his loyal following the rich, elegant and classic couture staples Ezra’s designs have always been known for.


See more designs by a Filipino Designer: Ezra Santos http://goo.gl/xGSweP

 

Relationships: Internet Dating

Relationships: Internet Dating (Illustrado)

  

Dear Dr. Holmes and Mr. Baer:

I joined an online dating site a month ago.  Since then I have met 17 women, all of whom described themselves as younger than they really were and weighing less than they really did.  Is it just my bad luck or are all women really liars?

 ~Jimmy

Dear Jimmy:

Thank you for your letter, despite its false dichotomy.  A false dichotomy, also known as either-or fallacy or as black and white thinking, is when a situation is presented as having only two alternatives, when that is not so.  Other options include a position that is between the two extremes; in other words, when there are shades of grey though, alas, not quite the same 50 shades that EL James describes in her trilogy (long live suburban porn!).

See full messages from Dr. Holmes and Mr. Baer about "Internet Dating" http://goo.gl/3BHSCx

Filipino in Japan: My Pinoy Life In Kobe

Filipino in Japan: My Pinoy Life In Kobe from Illustrado

Photo credits:  stock images from Dreamstime.com unless mentioned otherwise

ERNIESON GANADORES

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

I’ve been travelling repeatedly here for short term business trips since 2006. But since May 2010, my employer (Fujitsu Ten) sent me to our head office as an intra-company transferee. Being able to stay here in Kobe for quite a long time, I have learned to embrace the Japanese way of living.

Tell us something about your place?

Kobe, Japan is a beautiful city. I think it is the perfect combination of city and nature. I can be in the middle of the city and then hiking in the mountain trails in no time. Living here, I feel like I’m on a tour every day. Having photography as my hobby, I never run out of subjects.

If anyone is looking for a different level of experience, this place is a “must” visit with its diverse culture, superb food, endless beauty and its great people.

Here is some trivia about Kobe city:

Kobe City was completely destroyed in 1995 after an earthquake that shook the whole area.  But now, the city has been completely transformed into a beautiful tourist destination.

Cherry blossoms

The longest suspension bridge in the world, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge can be found here...

See full content about a "Filipino in Japan: My Pinoy Life In Kobe" http://goo.gl/PcF5d8
 

Summer Tropical Getaways - Off the Beaten Track!

Summer Tropical Getaways – Off the Beaten Track from Illustrado!

Tired of the usual tourist haunts?  Check out paradise in the Philippines in these amazing destinations where the waters are pristine, the views simply breathtaking and the smiles are warm and inviting.

Get away this summer in Beautiful Philippines.

Check out what the locals say about these holiday spot:



BORACAY

Off the coast of Panay in Western Visayas, Boracay is world famous for its white sand and clear blue waters. Starting its relatively young tourism history in the ’70s, this holiday hotspot has come a long way from its undeveloped state – an island originally inhabited by the indigenous Aki tribe. Its tourism is built on two islands. The more popular White Beach is a four-kilometer area with dozens of hotels, resorts, spas and other establishments dotting its shores. On the opposite end lies Bulabog Beach – the part of Boracay patronized by windsurfers and kiteboarders. Boracay holds a copious amount of recreational activities for its visitors. Some of the favorites are snorkeling, diving, banana boat riding and windsurfing. If you’re already impressed, wait ’til the sunset – Boracay is teeming with energy even when the lights are out.


See full article about "Summer Tropical Getaways" http://goo.gl/Z1ivTT

Top Five Things to Do in Baguio

Top Five Things to Do in Baguio from Illustrado

Story by Nikka Sarthou-Lainez

Baguio by Knap James – Dreamstime.com

Baguio has always been the original “Summer Capital of the Philippines”—especially in the 1980s when metro denizens would almost always schedule an annual trip to this northern mountain city. Its popularity declined after the big quake in the `90s, but the destination has become attractive again since the infrastructure has been improved and it is now easier and quicker to do a road trip up north.

Though summertime is the best time to escape the heat from the metro, it is also nice to visit Baguio from December to February to experience maximum coolness. On a good day, it could get as cold as 8 degrees Celsius—a good excuse to pack your sweaters and boots and head off to cooler pastures.

A trip to Baguio would not be complete without doing the following.

See the Top 5 Things to Do in Baguio: http://goo.gl/TZRzfL

Filipino Kazakhstan: My Pinoy Life in Astana

Filipino Kazakhstan: My Pinoy Life in Astana from Illustrado

 

MERLE HACILDO

Merle Hacildo – living a Pinoy life in Astana, Kazakhstan

 I have been a Filipino in Kazakhstan since 2008. I used to work as a private tutor to a Korean Middle school student in Shanghai but opted to move here in Kazakhstan for a change of environment and just like most OFWs, the need for a better opportunity brought me here.

Astana – capital of Kazakhstan, residence. © Anatoly Butyrin | Dreamstime.com

Astana. A fragment of the central part of the city. © Sudok1 | Dreamstime.com

Astana is a very beautiful city in the North although it is still developing. It was established as the new country’s capital in 1997. Most people don’t want to live here due to the long and severe cold winter months but over all, I can have everything that I want from restaurants, cinemas and other places for recreation.

More about her story:
The Filipino community in Kazakhstan...
Adapting to the host country...

See it here: http://goo.gl/Ls5aC9 

 

10 Things To Do this Summer in Dubai

"10 Things To Do this Summer in Dubai" from Illustrado

For many, summer in Dubai means going away from the city. But for those who decide to stay in the heat, a number of activities are available for choosing. From participating in the traditional Iftar to watching football matches, the metro is sizzling with numerous things to do.

 

1. Take your kids to Modhesh World

It’s not easy to find activities that are both educational and entertaining for kids. But over the years, Modhesh World has been synonymous with family entertainment during the summer in Dubai. It has grown to become a destination in itself, attracting around 500,000 visitors. This 2014, Modhesh World is opening its doors from June 12 to September 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. For more information, you may visit the website: www.modheshworld.com.

Photo: Modhesh World

2. Follow FIFA

Are you a football fanatic? Here in Dubai, fans can go to various bars and restaurants to celebrate and support their favorite FIFA team. Barasti by the Le Meridien Mina Seyahi is an amazing choice for the football action. You can also check the FIFA World Cup Tent at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre.

Photo: Brasil 2014 – Jefferson Bernardes / Shutterstock.com

See all "10 Things To Do this Summer in Dubai" http://goo.gl/1wb3Lq

Learning A New Language

Learning A New Language from Illustrado

By: Excel V. Dyquiangco

Almost every Filipino speaks English—that much is known, but some languages are catching up fast.

English isn’t the only foreign language spoken in the classrooms and in the Philippines. In high school, students in Metro Manila already have their eyes set on. Known as the Special Program in Foreign Language (SPFL) launched in 2009, the program helps Filipino students develop their communicative competence skills in reading, writing and speaking, listening and viewing other forms of speech aside from English.

The goal of the program is to add to the students’ skills set and secure a high paying job in the future.

“This is also in line with the thrust of K to 12 which is to prepare our future workforce for the global arena,” Education Secretary Armin Luistro says.

 Read full content about "The Benefits of Learning a New Language" http://goo.gl/d6iqjS

My Pinoy Life In Danang Vietnam

My Pinoy Life In Danang Vietnam from Illustrado

Filipinos in Vietnam: Arturo Poblete Jr., Director for Les Gants Vietnam

Photo credit: Peera_Stockfoto/shutterstock

I first came to Vietnam in July 2005 to set up and assist the country director of Les Gants Vietnam. My ability to speak in Vietnamese & Japanese were a plus for me as I officially served as the Japanese and Vietnamese interpreter of the company. Eventually, I became the director for Les Gants Vietnam in 2006; a post I held on to till 2010.

I live in Danang City, Vietnam, the third largest city in Vietnam located in the central part of the country. Danang City a long coast line and as you can imagine, beautiful beaches and many ancient ruins that reflect the Chinese influence on the country.

Arturo Poblete Jr. and his family

 See full story of a Filipino living now in Danang, Vietnam http://goo.gl/jt4F0C

My Pinoy Life in Singapore

My Pinoy Life in Singapore from Illustrado

By Janice De Sagun Ritt

Photo by Shutterstock

 

Moving to Singapore

It’s been almost a decade since I’ve moved to Singapore. During my early visits, I was amazed to see all the Filipinos, especially the ones from my province, and that give me an idea to try and become one of them. At my young age, I’ve decided to work abroad for my family, just like most Filipinos who have gone abroad.

 

Read the stories of some Filipinos who are now living and working in Singapore... My Pinoy Life in Singapore http://goo.gl/YMCxwb

Bakasyon Grande: What’s your La Union Style?

Bakasyon Grande: What’s your La Union Style? From Illustrado

Text and photos by: Kara Santos

La Union, famed for being the surfing capital of Northern Luzon, has a host of other attractions that every traveller can enjoy. Vagabond girl and travel blogger Kara Santos puts together a handy guide where you can take your pick of where to stay, what activities to do with or without a surf board.



La Union, in the province of Ilocos region, is known as the surfing capital of Northern Luzon. Local and international tourists often head to the beaches here for snorkelling, surfing and other water sports. Numerous surfing clinics and international surfing events are held here.

Located roughly 4-5 hours by land from Manila, the province of La Union is an ideal getaway for a weekend trip. Aside from its great beaches, it has a host of other natural attractions and tourist spots worth visiting.

Continue reading about "Travel in La Union – Bakasyon Grande: What’s your La Union Style?" http://goo.gl/08Lyqk 

Rocking “The Rock” – 10 Exciting Adventures That Await You in Corregidor Island

Rocking “The Rock” – 10 Exciting Adventures That Await You in Corregidor Island from Illustrado

Kayaking in Corregidor Photo by Bobby Aquino

  Text and photos by Kara Santos

The island fortress of Corregidor is best known as a memorial for the courage, valor, and heroism of its Filipino and American defenders who bravely held their ground against the overwhelming number of invading Japanese forces during World War II.

But if you think Corregidor is just for history buffs and war veterans, think again. In recent years, the island also known as “the Rock” is fast becoming a favorite adventure destination for nature-trippers, families and friends.

See all these "10 Exciting Adventures That Await You in Corregidor Island" http://goo.gl/j11YS5

 

Leadership Mindset

Leadership Mindset from Illustrado

By Mary Jane Alvero

dreamstime_9987454

A manager has been assigned to a new cross-regional project, and the first meeting is today. Unfamiliar faces around and other people are listening in from afar.  Managers from across the company are gathered in a conference room at the central office; colleagues from international offices are participating via conference call and Skype. 

 The CEO, there just to oversee the group’s kick-off, opens with a pep talk. They were asked to help map a new path. Exciting ideas are expected to emerge from the group. They are a mix of men and women, with varied ages and titles, representing different divisions and functional backgrounds, living in different countries. Who among them will become the leads of this group?


Read full article to know about "Leadership Mindset" http://goo.gl/QZq44w

Filipino Entrepreneur: The Must-Do List for Entrepreneurs

Filipino Entrepreneur: The Must-Do List for Entrepreneurs from Illustrado

dreamstime_xl_33719525

By Nikka  Sarthou

Being your own boss, controlling your time, and owning a business–it’s easy to see why many people want to go into entrepreneurship rather than being employed. We collected nuggets of advice and a list of must-do’s for aspiring entrepreneurs.

See "The Must-Do List for Entrepreneurs" here: http://goo.gl/DNFeIh

Get Hired

 Want to Get Hired?

Get Hired from Illustrado

By: Ana P. Santos


Don’t mix your dream job with a nightmare interview or resume.

“Well, to be honest, I’m just waiting for my boyfriend to propose to me. I actually don’t know what to do if he won’t. Maybe I’ll just go abroad.”

That was an actual answer I got during a job interview for a Marketing officer for my team. I politely ended the interview shortly after that. Her desperation and lack of career direction set off alarm bells. I didn’t want someone like that on my team.

There are just as many ways to ace a job interview as there are to kill it. Be aware, be conscious so you don’t sabotage yourself.

Job interviews, performance assessments, and presenting yourself to prospective clients are a lot like going out on a date. You want to put your best foot forward, make a good impression, and be invited back for another interview or a followup meeting. That is, you want to score another date—with a mutually beneficial and fulfilling relationship being the end goal.


We have created a list of What you should do to "Get Hired" See it here:  http://goo.gl/0qfhvk

An Employee Should be an Entrepreneur

Filipino Entrepreneur: An Employee Should be an Entrepreneur from Illustrado

By: Francisco Colayco

dreamstime_xl_31419399

Sure, any employee can be a passive entrepreneur by earning income from his invested savings.  He can also be an active entrepreneur by having a sideline after office hours and during weekends.

But when I say that an employee should be an entrepreneur, I am talking about mind set.
What makes an entrepreneur different from an employee?  An entrepreneur owns his business and has “placed his money where his mouth is”.  He believes he is good in a specific business and he will run it as the owner.  His success is completely dependent on his creativity, strategy, hard work and determination.

An entrepreneurial employee, to my mind: See full article here on why "An Employee Should be an Entrepreneur" http://goo.gl/PqAaG6

Filipino Recipes: A New Spin on Classic Kare-Kare

Filipino Recipes: A New Spin on Classic Kare-Kare from Illustrado

 

Filipino Recipes: Chef Allan Briones and Chef La Nina’s new spin on classic Kare-Kare

Tender Braised Beef Short-Rib, Tamarind Pickled Aubergine and Peanut Butter Cream with Baby Bok Choy and Anchovy Bagoong Jelly

Photo by: Chef Mico Galliguez

Tender Braised Beef Short-Rib, Tamarind Pickled Aubergine and
Peanut Butter Cream with Baby Bok Choy and Anchovy Bagoong Jelly
Photo By – Chef Mico Galliguez

See Full Details about this "Filipino Recipes: A New Spin on Classic Kare-Kare" http://goo.gl/g0mukY

Death by Inarte: How Your Vanity Could Kill You

Death by Inarte: How Your Vanity Could Kill You from Illustrado

By Nicholo Jallores



It has been said that the devil’s favorite sin is vanity. After all, Lucifer’s fall from grace was not precipitated by bloody murder. His descent into the nether realms came about shortly after he looked at God and said, “Hmmm… I could do better.” Following this line of narrative, it can even be argued that vanity is the original sin. Vanity is a sophisticated, malleable evil, able to take many forms or augment the gravitas of other trespasses. It latches unto our deep-seated insecurities akin to a voracious moral barnacle and makes us think and do stupid, senseless things – like getting cheap cosmetic enhancement.

The issue is not as trivial and banal as it sounds at the onset. On one end there’s the complex need to be appreciated and validated. On the other end, there’s the stupid and senseless need to be appreciated and validated as quickly and cheaply as possible.

Continue reading about "How Your Vanity Could Kill You" http://goo.gl/XMMMQN

UAE Law: Avoiding a Debt Sentence

UAE Law: Avoiding a Debt Sentence from Illustrado

Snapshots of the Vital Points of UAE Law Every Pinoy Expat Should Know

Every month, our in-house lawyer, Atty. Barney Almazar will explain legal concepts affecting the lives of Filipino expatriates across the emirates. This New Year, he explains how to avoid being in a downward credit card spiral which could get you to court or worse, put you behind the bars.

No Debt Sentence this 2014

By Barney Almazar, Esq.

So you’ve done your holiday shopping, hit the malls for that iPhone 5s or designer purse, but before you think about taking out that credit card and swiping it for another purchase this year, read Article 401 of the UAE Penal code first:

“A punishment of confinement of one month to three years, or a fine of a minimum of AED1,000 shall be inflicted on any person who, in bad faith draws a cheque with no existing or drawable provision.”

Read full article about "UAE Law: Avoiding a Debt Sentence" http://goo.gl/Gw46os

Drinking Alcohol In UAE: Why Intoxication Is A Serious Crime

Drinking Alcohol in the UAE: Why Intoxication Is A Serious Crime from Illustrado

By Atty. Barney Almazar

Photo from cdn.c.photoshelter.com

Alcohol intoxication is a serious offense in Muslim jurisdictions as evidenced by the gravity of penalty associated to it. A person guilty of illicit sexual relation will be given 100 lashes while alcohol drinking warrants 80 lashes. This is because drinking is considered a crime against the rights of God.

Different Penalties for Muslims and Non-Muslims

The UAE Penal Code, particularly Article 313 of Book 2, Part 5 on Crimes against Religious Faith and Rites provides the penalties for alcohol consumption:

“Article 313...

Read full article about "Drinking Alcohol In UAE: Why Intoxication Is A Serious Crime" http://goo.gl/vlscqD

Credit Cards and Loans: Your Rights and Responsibilities from Illustrado

By Atty. Barney Almazar


Did you know that banks are not allowed to take blank cheques as a condition for your loan approval? This is provided for under Article 15 (b) of the UAE Central Bank Regulations No 29/2011 regarding bank loans and services offered to individual customers.

Learn about the regulations of the UAE Central Bank pertaining to credit cards, personal loans, top-up loans, car loans and overdraft facilities, as well as the rights and responsibilities of banks and their customers.

Your debts could land you in jail! Learn how to avoid it here.

 Credit Cards

Article 5 (a) of the Regulations defines credit cards as plastic cards linked to an electronic network, containing details and credit limit of the card holder. Value of a customer’s purchases and cash withdrawals are paid on his behalf by the issuing bank or the finance company, and the customer pays the value at the beginning of the month following the transactions’ month, or by installments as per agreement with the issuing bank or finance company, after end of the period allowed for full payment of the balance.

Banks and Finance Companies issuing such cards must abide by the following:

- Provide these cards to persons whose annual income equal or exceeds AED60,000.

- These cards may be provided against a pledged deposit of value not less than AED60,000.

- Banks or finance companies should provide their credit card customers with a monthly statement of expenses, showing values of purchases and cash withdrawals, and they should immediately investigate if a customer challenges any expense item.

Read full article for "Credit Cards and Loans: Your Rights and Responsibilities" http://goo.gl/4epGfW

Food Philippines at Gulf Food 2015

Food Philippines at Gulf Food 2015 from Illustrado

Food Philippines brings natural and halal­ products at the 20^th Gulfood 

Food Philippines will once again generate more trade opportunities for the country when it brings halal, natural, and organic products to the 20^th “Gulfood: The Gulf Food Hotel and Equipment Exhibition and Salon Culinaire” slated at the Dubai World Trade Center, Dubai, UAE on Feb. 8-12, 2015. 

Spearheaded by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the export promotions arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Food Philippines will highlight the country’s halal-certified food products and “power” fruits in its participation in the world’s biggest annual food and hospitality show. 

“Favorable feedback and results from Gulfood’s last edition inspired us to continue bringing our healthy and natural food products to the world. Buyers and visitors who will troop to the 20^th Gulfood can expect more from the Food Philippines since we are ready to bring our halal­-certified products and tropical fruits in the UAE region,” said CITEM executive director Rosvi Gaetos.

The global halal trade is estimated to be worth USD2.3 trillion.  While halal food products have a ready market among the world’s Muslim population estimated at around 2 billion, halal food is consumed by even non-Muslim consumers because it has become synonymous with the highest standards of food safety. The increasing demand for halal-certified products in UAE and in the international market poses a huge opportunity for Philippine exporters.  The Philippine Export Development Plan identifies halal food exports as one of the growth areas that could trigger a 30 percent increase in export figures for food by 2016.

Food Philippines’ power fruits such as banana, coconut, mango, and pineapple will also take the spotlight at Gulfood, promoting well-being and quality lifestyle with their numerous health benefits.

Food Philippines is the industry brand for the food sector which unifies the overseas promotional efforts of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the export promotions arm of the Philippines Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Under this national brand, the Philippines is positioned as Asia’s most exciting sourcing destination for food exports, being one of the world’s top exporters of fresh fruits and marine products.

The Food Philippines Pavilion in the 19th edition of Gulfood in Dubai.

 

The fruit products of food manufacturer Agrinurture Inc.

 

A foreign buyer making inquiries at the Food Philippines Pavilion in the 19th edition of Gulfood.

Food Philippines will once again generate more trade opportunities for the country when it brings halal, natural, and organic products to the 20^th “Gulfood: The Gulf Food Hotel and Equipment Exhibition and Salon Culinaire” slated at the Dubai World Trade Center, Dubai, UAE in Feb. 2015.

content source: http://goo.gl/H3GPQ5

Filipinos Abroad: What Every Filipino Needs to Know When Moving to Another Country

Filipinos Abroad: What Every Filipino Needs to Know When Moving to Another Country from Illustrado

By Quay Evano

Photo – Dreamstime.com

Filipinos have been widely known as citizens of the world. The Pinoy diaspora dates back to the early 1900s when thousands of Filipinos migrated to the USA and ended up starting generations upon generations of Filipino-Americans.  According to AC Nielsen, Filipinos, after the Chinese and the Indians, are the third largest expatriate population scattered around the globe, with 12% of our population outside the homeland.  Our kababayans can be found working and living virtually anywhere in the world – on oil tankers and cruise ships in remote oceans from pole to pole; in unforgiving deserts in the Middle East and Africa; in the coldest places in the world, and even in jungles untouched by man in South America.

Each person has a different way of adapting and surviving in a new country. Luckily for us Filipinos, the culture that we have grown up with has given us a built-in advantage in terms of being able to more easily integrate within new communities where we choose to reside.  Not only are we blessed with familiarity with the English language, even our easy-going and mostly open attitude, unlike more conservative expats, certainly helps us adjust to life in a foreign land.

Still, sharpening our survival skills will ease the way we can get accustomed and eventually thrive in a new place.

Here are some tips that Filipinos could benefit from while trying to make it elsewhere in the world.

Read full Article about "What Every Filipino Needs to Know When Moving to Another Country" http://goo.gl/eb6AXN

Filipinos Abroad: A Filipino Expat Guide to Settling Abroad

Filipinos Abroad: A Filipino Expat Guide to Settling Abroad from Illustrado

By Kristine Abante 

They say if you haven’t dared left your comfort zone you will only be reading one page of a great book.
 
Those of us who have been lucky enough to experience the thrill of stepping into another country will tell you that there is this priceless rush that comes from the moment you first set foot on foreign soil.

Everything seems so exotic – the air, the weather, the street signs, the food, public transportation, people talking in a language you don’t understand. You take this all in as you assess the possibilities before you. It is frightening, yes, but it is also rewarding to have that chance to be a brand new person, open to new adventures ahead.

There was a time when travel was not exactly popular among Pinoys, when the word “abroad” only brings to mind three things – a) you’re family is loaded rich, b) you have relatives abroad who petitioned for you, or c) you are an OFW bound for a tough life in the Middle East, Europe or Canada.

Times have changed, however. Nowadays with cheaper international fares and better opportunities, we see Filipinos from all walks of life, not only making their way but also planting roots across globe.

Masters at the art of adapting and integrating, Pinoy expats are proving that although there might be no place like home, there is also no limit to the places you can call home.

If you’re thinking of spreading your wings and moving to certain parts of the world, we’ve gathered some insights from our fellow Filipinos living in key places around the globe to help you plan your next big move.

Yellow taxis rides on 5th Avenue in New York, USA. Photo – Andrey Bayda

Continue reading to know more Filipino Expats who are now settling abroad... http://goo.gl/TTfW7m

Life Makeover: Declutter and make 2015 your best year ever

Life Makeover: Declutter and make 2015 your best year ever from Illustrado

By Anna de Leon

shutterstock_176601806

“I will lose weight, I will save money.” “I will do this … I will do that…” The lists of resolutions, as well as, possibilities are endless once the New Year rolls in. But no, we will not tell you to hit the gym six days a week to lose the pounds gained from eating lechon and leche flan, or start-up a savings plan – the one that you’ve been postponing for the last three years.  Instead, here are basic tips that could be the foundation of your best year yet.

The New Year gives you 365 days of new chances and possibilities to better and reinvent yourself, but sometimes unnecessary baggage – i.e. people (yes, they exist), objects and feelings, hinder these personal improvement plans.  Often, we tend to overlook these basic things that need our attention. But to properly see the great opportunities that are mostly just right under our noses, one must, first and foremost, de-clutter.  Mind you, the concept is not exclusive to your material possessions.  It applies to almost everything in your life.


Read full article about "Life Makeover: Declutter and make 2015 your best year ever" http://goo.gl/1ZDIJs

Out of the Barrio, Into the World

Out of the Barrio, Into the World from Illustrado

by Nicholo Jallores

To Juan and Maria,

You’re not in the barrio anymore.

Welcome to the world.

Photo credit: New Line Cinema (Screen Shot 2015-01-29 at 10.58.28 AM)

A whirlwind swept you off your lovely days in the village and plonked you here in the middle of the bizarre landscape that is the life of the struggling expatriate. Yours was a life of comfort and predictability in the barrio, but this gnarly province offers no such niceties. You are Frodo from the Shire and this, little sweetling, is Mordor. You will have to shed some of your innocence here, lest you be mistaken as a half-wit and thrown into the pit to be devoured alive by hungry orcs. You are in the land of giants, where everyone walks straighter and taller than you. Brace thyself, lest you be trampled underfoot.

Now mind you, it’s not all fire and brimstone. You did not come here as lamb waddles to the slaughter. You are here to push yourself beyond your limits, to test the mettle of your fortitude and find the immensity that eluded you in your days as just another wily character in your barangay. Greatness awaits, but to get to it you will have to endure a thousand pains and pass through a gauntlet of immense toil and turmoil. You will rise to greater heights, but first, you will be humbled. In your limited and insular vision, you may have thought of yourself a king in your homestead, but here you will have to play the pauper, the court jester, the warrior, or the general. You will have to rebuild your nobility from the ground up, because no one is likely to just hand you your crown.

Survive and thrive abroad! Learn how here.

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