T&C'S 2015 BEAUTY AWARDS

LIFE AT ITS BEST

CLASS
ACT

THE BEST AND

THE BRIGHTEST
HEAD ACROSS
THE SEAS
EXCLUSIVE:
MICHAEL
KORS FALL
COLLECTION

AGELESS
BELLA YUCHENGCO

JOY VIRATA
TECHIE VELASQUEZ
BABA TAADA
CRISTINA TABORA
DOLORES PANLILIO
TONI GREGORY PALENZUELA
SONIA OLIVARES
PACHOT MAPA

FASHION
SPOTLIGHT ON

JESSICA
TAN GAN
AUGUST 2015

MUST MEET

BRYAN
CHAN
LIM

KARL
LAGERFELD'S
50 YEARS
AT FENDI

CARTIER'S

PARIS NOUVELLE
COLLECTION
Chris
Daez in
Bottega
Veneta

CHRIS
YAM DAEZ
A GLIMPSE INTO HER
PRIVATE WORLD

T&C
E S TA B L I S H E D

1846

CONTENTS
features

76 A DAY WITH RISSA MANANQUIL-TRILLO

The fashion and beauty columnist and former

supermodel chats with Yvette Fernandez about farout ideas, her Ugly Duckling Crew, and founding
the Happy Skin cosmetics brand.

80 TABLE FOR ONE

An exclusive look at Michael Kors fall 2015

collection. Styled by Carole Cuasay-Tagle

86 MULTI-FACETED MYSTERY

A rare glimpse into the private world of Chris Yam

Daez, in her own words.
As told to Maria Milagros G. Agustines

94 CLASS ACT

We tip our hats to the brightest and most

accomplished of the Class of 2015, who are heading
off to the most elite academic institutions around
the world. By Manica C. Tiglao

104 AGELESS

Timeless beauties Bella Yuchengco, Joy Virata,

Dolores Panlilio, Techie Velasquez, Pachot Mapa,
Baba Taada, Toni Palenzuela, Cristina Tabora, and
Sonia Olivares prove that age is but a number.
Produced by Alicia Colby Sy and Nicole Limos

114 LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL

A comprehensive catalog of the best in cosmetics

and skincare for 2015. By Nicole Limos

124 WHERE MORE IS MORE

Hutton Wilkinsons lavish Beverly Hills home is a

tribute to his mentor, the late maximalist designer
Tony Duquette. By Pilar Viladas

94

86
AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

ON OUR COVER:

CHRIS YAM DAEZ in

BOTTEGA VENETA.
Photographed by
PAOLO PINEDA.
Styled by CAROLE
CUASAY-TAGLE.
Makeup by PATRICK
ALCOBER for SHU
UEMURA. Hair by
RHOY CERVANTES.

T&C 6

T
T&C
E S TA B L I S H E D

1846

76

CONTENTS

80
departments

14 EDITORS LETTER
16 CONTRIBUTORS

out&about
21 OPENER

Ladures famed macarons finally arrive in

Manila.

38 BOOKS

A celebration of Karl Lagerfelds 50-year

tenure at Fendi.

22 CULTURE TOP TEN

Art aficionado Olivia Yaos Modern Reader

book project; 9Works Theatricals La Cage
aux Folles; Red Turnips 33 Variations; the
Museum Foundation of the Philippines
MaARTe 2015 fair; and more.

39 GETAWAY

Qiwellness Living in Tagaytay; Crystal

Cruises soon makes a stopover in the
Philippines.

40 MUST MEET

28 DINING

The local dining scene continues to heat up with

new additions in Fig, Kafe Batwan, and more.

30 WINE

The vineyards of Chablis; Maison M.

Chapoutier.

34 COCKTAILS

Glenfiddichs Valley of the Deer Experience

in Malaysia.

Get to know Bench vice president Bryan

Chan Lim.

124

43 OPENER

Achromatic dressing at its finest.

44 SHOPPING

The seasons most stylish two-tone musthaves.

46 HERITAGE

36 TECHNOLOGY

New editions of Longchamps Le Pliage bag.

High-fidelity music is back.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

style spy

T&C 8

T&C
E S TA B L I S H E D

1846

CONTENTS

53

JAEGER-LECOULTRE
WATCH, GREENBELT 5,
728.0094

48 STYLE PROFILE

Jessica Tan Gans effortless approach to fashion.

104

50 MEN

Paul Smiths autumn/winter 2015 collection;

Montblancs Luciano Pavarotti limited edition
pens.

52 BIJOUX NEWS

Cartiers Paris Nouvelle collection.

53 WATCH

Solar system-inspired details in watches from

Omega, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and Hublot; Vacheron
Constantins Harmony chronograph.

54 DESIGN

Danish furniture brand Hay comes to Manila.

looking glass

56 TOP TREATMENTS

A roundup of beauty treatments worth your time.

60 BEAUTY DIARY

Tips and tricks from Rustans beauty education

manager Rosanna Laurel.

social network
62 PARTIES

The Belo Groups 25th anniversary celebration;

founding T&C editor Monique Villoncos
Timeless Beauty photography exhibit with
Rustans and Areum; Damiani launches its latest
collection; business tycoons and other power
players congregate at Summit Medias launch of
Forbes Philippines.

72 WEDDINGS

134

DAMIANI NECKLACE,
RUSTANS SILVER VAULT
MAKATI, 813.3739

Carmela Marie Tapia Cambaliza weds Enzo

Steven Montinola Virata.

74 MANNERS AND MISDEMEANORS

Louise Prima notes why the choice to bear

children (or not) isnt anyones business.

132 SOURCEBOOK

The rise of luxurious African lodges inspires an

wardrobe of safari chic.

134 HOROSCOPE

114
AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

See what the stars have in store for you this August.

136 GIVING

Ruth Foundation strives to enrich the sick and

ageds golden hours.

T&C 10

Koh Gen_reg 0815.indd 1

7/2/15 3:34 PM

YVETTE P. FERNANDEZ
Editor in Chief
Executive Editor ALICIA COLBY SY
Art Director JOHN PATRICK MENESES
Associate Editor PIERRE IAKI A. CALASANZ
Assistant Managing Editor MANICA C. TIGLAO
Fashion Editor CAROLE CUASAY-TAGLE
Beauty Editor NICOLE LIMOS
Associate Art Director MARTIE PLAZA

Interns MIKAELLA EVARISTO, ROSANNA PERIQUET, SAM RIVERA

Contributing Writers MARIA MILAGROS G. AGUSTINES, PAMELA CORTEZ, IRWIN CRUZ, LEE CUNDANGAN,
SANJEEB GOPALDAS, JENNIFER BAUM LAGDAMEO, TRICKIE C. LOPA, CLIFFORD OLANDAY
Contributing Photographers LOUIE AGUINALDO, GABBY CANTERO, MIGS CASTRO, JUN DE LEON,
MEDAL ELEPAO, DAN HARVEY, PATRICK MARTIRES, MARK NICDAO, KENJI ONGLAO, IAN SANTOS
Editorial Consultants JAY LEONG GOKONGWEI, NINA HERRERA HUANG, MARY ANNE ABOITIZ ARCULLI
Team Editor PAULINE SUACO-JUAN
Group Creative Director VINCE UY
Team Art Director JONATHAN S. ROXAS
Founding Editor MONIQUE S. VILLONCO
President and Chief Operating Officer LISA GOKONGWEI-CHENG
Publisher EDNA TANCONGCO-BELLEZA
Editorial Directors MYRZA SISON, JO-ANN MAGLIPON
Vice President for Operations HANSEL DELA CRUZ
Group Brand Publisher ICHI APOSTOL-ACOSTA
Associate Publisher PATRICIA PUENTEVELLA
Group Advertising Director FLORENCE G. BIENVENIDO
Advertising Director for Key Accounts Group REGIE UY
Advertising Manager TORTO CANGA
Key Account Specialists JOEY ANCIANO, JOYCE ARGANA, CHA CLARINO

JUNN DE LAS ALAS, ALEX REVELAR, ANNIE SANTOS, SUZETTE TOLENTINO

Senior Account Managers AR KUO, LEN MANALO, ANDI TRINIDAD, JERRY CABAUATAN
Advertising Executive Assistant RITA BARBACENA
Key Accounts Assistants CHINGGAY CABIT, MARICEL SAMSON
Advertising Assistant SHEENA CLERICA
Junior Marketing Associate MARY PRINCESS DERIT
Assistant Marketing Manager ROB RUBINA
Project Officer PATRICIA CORDERO
Senior Marketing Associate RICA LOZADA
Junior Marketing Associate ALVIN PARONDA
Media Relations Manager GRACE ENRIQUEZ
Media Relations Associates NICOLE ANGELA DAVID, JENSINE BOLINAO
Trade Marketing Associate JAMIE P. ISLO
Trade Marketing Associates DARYL LINCOD, HANNAH ROQUE
Trade Marketing Assistants JOYLYN GUINTO, RAVEN DORADO, WENDL MAGSINO
Visual Merchandiser MYCHAEL IVAN LIM
IS and Administrative Director MAGS CASTRO
Administrative Services Manager WHILMA LOPEZ
Executive Assistant ROSALIE ARTETA
Administrative Assistants MICHIEL LUMABI, MARLYN MIGUEL
Production Manager ELIZ E. RELLIS
Assistant Production Manager JANE M. PUNO
Production Coordinator ERIC L. CAGOCO
Advertising Traffic Supervisor MYRA GOROSPE
Cover Photo Enhancer ARTHUR ASTURIANO
Production Artist DINDO ROLLAN

Creative Solutions Managing Editor ROANA M. CAPAQUE

Creative Solutions Assistant Managing Editor CHICA VILLARTA
Creative Solutions Art Directors KATRINA VELOSO, PAULO SANTILLAN, LEIA GUTIERREZ
Deputy National Circulation Manager GLENDA GIL
Circulation Manager NOREEN SESCON-PELIGRO
Assistant Manager for Print and Online Distribution ULYSSIS JAVIER
Online Distribution Assistant MARK MANIO
Key Accounts Group Heads VIVIAN MANAHAN, CHARLOTTE BARLIS
Subscription Group Head CARLA SORIANO
Key Accounts Specialists JENNIFER TOLENTINO, ALFREDO TOLEDO JR., HAROLD WILLIAM REY,
REJIE PAQUIBOT, MARJORIE YU

Junior Sales Representatives JOHN LAKHI CELSO, BRYLLE GONZALES, MAY ANN AYUSTE,

MELROSE TAMBOONG, JULIE DUNN BANTAN

Sales Coordinator JENNYFER MARCELO
Distributor Specialists KIM SARMIENTO, ROBERTO REVILLA, ELAINE EINOSAS,
ERIC FERDINAND GASATAN, BEE DATINGUINOO, AERON NOLASCO
Newsstands Supervisor JOEL VALDEZ
Subscription Coordinators NATHANIEL EMBIADO, ARIEL RIVERA,
MA. GLENDA UCHI, ANNALYN ARAMBULO
Subscription Telemarketer JON MAYNARD ORTIZ
Circulation Administrative Supervisor MARIE LENN REYES
Circulation Administrative Assistants ELNIE MARIE SANTOS, LIZEL TUMALI

Logistics Manager NORMAN CAMPO

Logistics Officer LORIE FRANCISCO
Logistics Supervisors FIDEL MITRA, MARX BARROGA
Technical Operations Officer MARK RENN CALUAG
Web Operations Manager DENNISON KO
Online Advertising Sales Manager MAAN CHIPECO-DE GUZMAN
Web Administrative Assistant CHERRY MARPURI-ANGELES
Digital Imaging UNITED GRAPHIC EXPRESSION CORPORATION
Printer THE HOUSE PRINTERS CORPORATION

TOWN&COUNTRY (PHILIPPINES)
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TOWN&COUNTRY (USA)
EDITOR IN CHIEF JAY FIELDEN
TOWN&COUNTRY (MALAYSIA)
EDITOR IN CHIEF BEATRICE NIRMALA ADAIKALARAJ
TOWN&COUNTRY (THAILAND)
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HEARST MAGAZINES INTERNATIONAL
PRESIDENT/CEO DUNCAN EDWARDS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT/CFO AND GENERAL MANAGER SIMON HORNE
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT/DIRECTOR OF LICENSING AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT GAUTAM RANJI
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT/INTERNATIONAL PUBLISHING DIRECTOR JEANNETTE CHANG
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FASHION AND ENTERTAINMENT DIRECTOR KRISTEN INGERSOLL
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AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 12

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www.smeg.ph

Coffee maker CMSC451

C231, 2nd Floor Serendra, Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City T (632) 856-smeg (7634)
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Unit 6012, Level 6, Shangri-la Plaza East Wing, EDSA corner Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City T (632) 885-smeg (7634)

August 2015

BEAUTY BETS
From left: Yvette, with her mother, Dely
Fernandez, and grand-aunt, Loleng Panlilio;
trying out Chanel products for our Beauty
Awards; with ageless theater actress and
director Joy Virata.

BEAUTY
MARKS

VERY TIME I LOOK IN THE

mirror, I see the crows feet in the
corners of my eyes that get deeper
when I smile, which, fortunately or
unfortunately, happens to be quite often.
Theyre the result of too many years of
wearing thick television makeup and over
two decades of frigid winters. Our makeup
women at the office used to badger me to
put all sorts of moisturizers and products
on my face but I never listened. And now
Im doing penance for my actions.
When I moved back to Manila five
years ago, my friend Lisa gave me a tube
of sunscreen. Wear it so you dont get
sunspots, she'd warned. I didnt listen. Id
always found sunspots cute on other people,
I told her. But not on me, I realize now. So
Im constantly bugging our beauty editor
Nicole Limos for tips and products on how
to help lighten those not-so-cute spots on
my face. Nicoles put together a whole slew
of the best in Beauty in this issue.
Then again I tell myself that with all
those marks on my face come happy
stories and memories. Flashbacks of those
newscasts I wrote up and broadcast from
8 p.m. till 3 a.m. New York time, which
was the trading day in Asia on the other
side of the world. I had an upside-down

body clock and a tops-only wardrobe. Why

bother buying full suits when all I needed
were the jackets?
With the sunspots come the images
of those special trips to Boracay, the
first big turtle I saw in Anilao, or that
wreck off Coron. And of my first-ever
shark sightingfour white-tip splendid
creatures sleeping in what my friends
called a shark apartment. Thats when I lost
my heart to diving.
It makes me nervous sometimes,
knowing that my golden years are not that
far away. In my head and in my heart, I still
think and feel like a kid, but the rest of my
body makes it clear I am otherwise.
But then I see gorgeous, glorious women
out there two, three, even four decades
older than me, and I think that hey, I want
to be like them.
Welcome to our Beauty and Ageless
issue. On our pages, nine glamorous
women who defy the stereotypes of age.
Photographed by the amazing Jun de Leon,
they are fabulous and comfortable in their

own skin, and they wear their lines, if any,

as beauty accessories. These women ooze
with confidence, charisma, and dare we say
itsex appeal.
Take Dolores Arguelles Panlilio, whom
we call Lola Loleng, who is quite proud
of the fact that she is five years short of a
century. And oh, the stories she tells! Of
thorny escapes during the war and piano
lessons and society balls in peace. You must
visit her for tea sometime.
On our cover, stunning Chris Yam
Daez who gives Dee Dee Agustines a
peek into her very private world. Chris
recently added the title of restaurateur
to her already full plate (pun intended,
of course) with the opening of the
Halal Guys.
Its also our Best and our Brightest
issue, with Manica Tiglaos feature on the
graduates fresh from high school who are
heading off to foreign shores to learn from
some of the most brilliant teachers on the
planet, and who, hopefully, will be back
home in four years, bringing with them
some of the best education the world has to
offer. Brain gain.
Cheers!

WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU Write us at townandcountry@summitmedia.com.ph. You may also text us at Text
TAC ED<message and send to 2640 for Globe, Smart, and Sun subscribers. You may also send letters to: Town&Country,
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Y V E T T E . F E R N A N D E Z @ S U M M I T M E D I A .CO M. P H

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 14

.COM

P H OTO G R A P H BY J U N D E L EO N ( Y V E T T E A N D J OY)

EDITORS LETTER

Follow us on TWITTER @ towncountryph

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CONTRIBUTORS

AU G U S T

2015

1
Inquirer and will soon depart the
Philippines to study at New York
University. Currently an intern
for Town&Country, she finds the
experience rich and rewarding.
To her, beauty is whatever tickles
the mind, making the eyes crave
more of what it was exposed to.

4 BYRON VELASQUEZ

of the beholder, but also that not

all beholders are created equal.
2 MANICA TIGLAO

5
4

1 JUN DE LEON

The renowned photographer

is a true pioneer in Philippine
photography. De Leon found
his true calling as early as he
can remember, stating that he
loves photography more than
food. He spent his early days
as a news photographer for the
Daily Express. He follows no rule
in capturing his subjects, which
might be the reason for the
creativity of his photographs, and
believes that beauty is in the eyes

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

Town&Countrys young managing

editor started as an editorial
assistant, working her way up
and opening new doors for
herself as a writer too, having
written for other titles such
as ELLE Decoration, Preview,
and Esquire. For this issue, she
wrote about the most promising
graduates of the Class of 2015.
It was inspiring to meet 20 kids
who have accomplished so much
at such a young age, and who
continue to dream big. I love
people who are smart, driven, and
have a lot of ambition, she says.
We can only hope that these kids
come back someday and share
everything theyve learned with
the Philippines.
3 MIKAELLA EVARISTO

A recent graduate of Brent

International School, Evaristo
breathes literature and hopes
to become an investigative
journalist in the future. She
believes in the power of words to
act as a catalyst for change. She
writes for the Philippine Daily

T&C 16

Velasquez has always been

interested in makeup. Originally
from Baguio, he started dabbling
with cosmetics at an early
age. However, he got caught
up in the corporate world for
a couple years before finally
pursuing his dream of being
a makeup artist. In this issue,
Byron glamorized the students
in CLASS ACT. He loves working
with the magazine, as he gets
to meet various people who
are all successful, people who
inspire other people, people who
make a difference. With beauty
permeating this issue, Velasquez
believes that it is the quality
that pleases the senses, but more
than that, it is the responsibility
to inspire people and make them
feel good about themselves. His
top three beauty essentials are
sleep, water, and moisturizer.
5 NICOLE LIMOS

A decade in publishing has

allowed Limos, Town&Countrys
beauty editor for three years
now, to write about other topics
too, which range from fashion
and technology to travel and
personality profiles. She also
contributes to other Summit
Media publications such as
Preview, Esquire, Mens Health,
and Good Housekeeping. Limos
spent a year trying out various
beauty products for this years
Best of Beauty feature, LIFE IS
BEAUTIFUL. She believes in outer
beauty as much as inner beauty,
stating that people should always
present themselves as best as
they can. Beauty to me is a life
well lived. And by that it means
trying to take care of and excel in
every aspect of itfrom the job
that you do and the relationships
you have to the endeavors that
you take to improve your life and
others too.

OLIVIERS & CO. SPECIAL FEATURE

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Mayol, P2995

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its creamy, round aroma can give a
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of intricate flavors.
Moulin La Cravenco, P2995

Photographed by Pat Martires; Styling by Rachelle Santos

Lace your meals with the best and most luxurious of

ingredientsOliviers & Co. choice olive oils, each with its
own avor that can elevate your culinary creations

SALAD NIOISE MIXED

WITH RAVID AZIENDA
AGRICOLA
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been a favorite choice with its
refreshing greens, tomato, olive,
and capsicum slices, creamy egg bits
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give it an Italian twist by preparing it
with a Ravid Azienda Agricola? This
excellent oil brings lingering notes of
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Ravid Azienda Agricola, P2995

BRUSCHET TA PAIRED
WITH OLIVE &
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Bring this appetizer to a new level of sophistication. The perfect combination of
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& Garlic Specialty olive oil. Inspired by the
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ONE, TWO, THREE, TAP!

Your favorite Summit magazines, now available in Newsstand.

https://summitnewsstand.com.ph/town-country

August 2015

Culture, Leisure, and Other Pursuits

SWEET PURSUITS

MACARON

ST Y L I N G BY R AC H E L L E SA N TOS

MAGIC

Set to open this month,

French patisserie
Ladure brings to
Manila an array of
delights including fine
chocolate, fruit jams,
honey, tea, and of course,
an exquisite range of
the worlds favorite
macarons de Paris.

T HAS BEEN SAID THAT

a girls first trip to Paris

should be with her
fathera man who will
love her forever. Further to
that romantic notion, we
would add that during her
maiden visit, her first taste
of a macaron should be
nowhere else but Ladure,
as there are few experiences
more magical than ones
first bite into the venerable
institutions macaron. Its
thin, delicate crust and
the reveal of the smooth,
moist, silky ganache filling
is completely etherealand
even standing behind the
glass-enclosed counter is
a feast for the senses as
the vividly hued round
confections are neatly lined
in a row, creating their own
tempting rainbow of color
and flavors.
This month, the delightful
macaron mecca opens its
first store in the country.
With 12 orginal flavors flown
in daily, and seasonal ones to
complement the assortment,
a trip to Paris may no
longer be necessary, but
we still suggest it, because
Paris is always a good idea,
especially when you are
with your dad. Ground Floor,
8 Rockwell, Makati.

By A L I C I A CO L BY SY Photograph by PAT R I C K M A RT I R E S

T&C 21

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

OUT&ABOUT

ART, APPRECIATED

RT ADDICTION CAN LEAD TO

various side effects. Take megacollector Charles Saatchi who

famously introduced himself as an
artoholic. Credited for his discovery
of the YBAs, the Young British Artists
of the 1990s, his support spawned a
movement that changed the visual arts
landscape. The likes of Damien Hirst and
Tracey Emin, artists whom he acquired

and exhibited early on in their careers,

count among todays most commercially
successful, controversial, and influential.
Olivia Borlongan Yaos passion for
art has not yielded such widespread
repercussions, at least not yet. But two
years ago, she decided that the mere
acquisition of works did not deliver
the high that it used to. Accumulating
pieces did not seem enough. She wanted
something more. To fill the void, Yaos
independent publishing company, The
Modern Reader, launches Art After
War: 1948-1969, the first in a series of
publications that aims to be the most
comprehensive overview of Philippine
art in the contemporary era. This newly
established venture arose from Olivias
decision to trade in her banking career to
create coffee-table books on art.
Im at the stage in my life when I
want to do more than collect art. I kept
buying books on Amazon, but they
were about art from other countries.
For me, knowledge liberates: when
one knows more about art, about good

FLIPPING
PA G E S
Publisher Olivia Yao with
an installation by Riel
Hilario; pages from Art
After War: 1948-1969.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 22

artists, then you dont care about the

dictates of the market. Nowadays, we
can get sidetracked by whats posted
on Facebook, on Instagram, as if social
media validates what good art is. When
collectors get educated, they can make
better judgments about their collecting
style, which artists to support.
Like most enthusiasts, Olivias first
exposure to the contemporary art scene
came about because of necessity. In the
late 1990s, newly married and in need
of dcor, she commissioned a relative,
Elmer Borlongan, for a painting. That
introduced her to his circle of artist
colleagues, the Salingpusa collective, and
their works. She got hooked, and has
not looked back. To date, her collection
encompasses the most exciting names in
Philippine visual arts, among them Maria
Taniguchi, Louie Cordero, Leeroy New,
Nilo Ilarde, and Riel Hilario, along with
modern masters Alfonso Ossorio and
Nena Saguil.
As the president of The Modern Reader,
Olivia wants to produce coffee-table
books of the highest quality, those that
will be considered objects, works of art
in their own right. To this end, she asked
Patrick Flores, noted curator and museum
director, to author the series. I wanted to
work with those at the top of their field.
So I also asked At Maculangan to come on
board as our photographer, as well as Felix
Mago Miguel to do the book design.
Dr. Flores says, Its a timely project.
Contemporary art in the Philippines
is strong and the scene is active. There
is a need to put all this in context. One
context is art history, and the book
would like to contribute to the task of
discourse The team for this book is a
dynamic one; they understand that form
and substance have to come together
and that both should reach the audience
with lively interest. As an art historian
and curator, I think this is a wonderful
opportunity to weigh in.
Ive never felt as satisfied as I have
been working on the book these past
18 months. I never felt this way when
I was just buying art, Olivia reflects.
Spoken like an addict flush from a
gratifying fix. oy@themodernreader.com;
themodernreader.com. TRICKIE C. LOPA

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F M I G S C A S T R O ( YA O ) A N D AT M A C U L A N G A N ( B O O K S ) . H A I R A N D M A K E U P B Y V I D A N O N J A U C I A N

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P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F B A L L E T M A N I L A ( 2 ) A N D 9 W O R K S T H E AT R I C A L ( 3 )

TA L L TA L E S
Scenes from Ang Prinsipe
ng mga Ibon and Ang
Mahiwagang Biyulin.

BEDTIME STORIES

BALLET MANILAS 20TH PERFORMANCE SEASON, PLAYFULLY DUBBED FROM

Page to Stage, kicks off this month with Severino Reyes Tatlong Kwento ni Lola Basyang, a
dance triptych celebrating themes of romance, fantasy, and adventure. The first act, Ang
Prinsipe ng Mga Ibon, is choreographed by Ballet Manila co-artistic director, Osias Barroso.
The age-old theme of forbidden love is given a twist here, as Prinsesa Singsing has
fallen in love with Prinsipe Ibona bird!much to the chagrin of her father, Haring
Tongkiang. Lisa Macuja-Elizalde choreographs the next sequence, Ang
Kapatid ng Tatlong Marya, which is set to the music of Joey Ayala. In this
adventure tale, a young hero goes on a quest to find his three bewitched
sisters. Closing the show is Ang Mahiwagang Biyulin, a heartwarming
tale about how music is able to change the ways of a cruel and
exploitative old man. The pieces choreography was by the late
Tony Fabella, hailed as a legend in the local dance scene, and is
set to music by Ryan Cayabyab. August 21, 22, 28, and 29 at
8 p.m. and August 23 and 30 at 3 p.m.; Aliw Theater, CCP Complex,
Pasay; tickets are available through Ticketworld, 891. 9999;
ticketworld.com.ph; balletmanila.com.ph.

CALL ME ALBIN

ENEATH THE CAMPY GLITZ, WICKEDLY DELICIOUS HUMOR,

and, of course, the over-the-top musical numbers, La Cage aux Folles
has at its heart a powerful LGBT-rights message, one that resonates
as deeply today as it did when it premiered on Broadway just over 30
years ago. While its original producers, Fritz Holt and Barry Brown,

I N G AY P A R I S
Michael de Mesa, Audie
Gemora, and Steven Silva
in La Cage aux Folles.

feared that the plays themes wouldnt go down

well with mainstream audiences, its Broadway run
immediately won theatergoers over, going on to
earn nine Tony nominations, winning six.
After a brief run earlier this year, 9Works
Theatrical is bringing back La Cage to the Philippine
stage, reuniting the highly acclaimed cast that
includes acting legends Michael de Mesa, Audie
Gemora, Raul Montesa, and Shiela Francisco as well
as rising stars Steven Silva, Missy Macuja Elizalde,
and Joni Galeste. Gemora is undoubtedly the scenestealer of the show, flexing his acting chops as he
dons full-drag regalia: glittery sequins, killer heels,
fancy wigs, and all. He portrays Albin, the star
performer in a club owned by his lover, Georges
(de Mesa). High jinks ensue when Georges son
Jean-Michel (Silva) plans to marry, but first he has
to introduce his parents to his future in-lawsa
couple zealously dedicated to closing down the
citys gay nightclubs. How does this sticky situation
play out? The musicals most recognized song,
I Am What I Am, defiantly
performed by Albin at the close
of Act 1, should provide a clue.
Premieres August 15 and runs through
September 6 (Friday and Saturday galas
at 8 p.m., selected Saturday matinees at
3:30 p.m., and Sunday matinees at 4 p.m.),
Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC
Plaza, Makati; 586.7105, 0917.554.5560;
info@9workstheatrical.com.

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SPLISH,
SPLASH!

GENE KELLYS UMBRELLA-TWIRLING DANCE

sequence in the 1952 musical Singin in the Rain is easily
one of the most memorable scenes in cinematic history.
This month, through the technical wizardry of modern
theater, this splashy choreographed spectacle is recreated
onstage with the help of 12,000 liters of watersit too
near the front and you are definitely going to get wet.
An instant hit with audiences during its runs on Broadway
and Londons West End, Singin in the Rain closely follows
the original films plot and features a winning combination
of good music, comedy, and romance.
Set in Hollywood during the late 1920s, it documents
the transition from the silent movie era to the talkies,
a theme more recently explored in the acclaimed film,
The Artist. Taking over Kellys iconic character of Don
Lockwood, the charming silent film actor, is international
stage star Grant Almirall, fresh from his portrayal of
Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys; his leading lady is played
by Bethany Dickson, who was last seen as Maria in the
touring production of The Sound of Music, which played
to audiences in China, Singapore, and New Zealand.
Directed by Jonathan Church with choreography by
Andrew Wright, Singin in the Rain is presented in Manila
by VISA Entertainment in partnership with David Atkins
Enterprises, Michael Cassel Group, Concertus Manila,
Dainty Group, Lunchbox Theatrical Productions,
Stage Entertainment, and Chichester Festival Theatre.
Opens August 20 at The Theatre at Solaire; tickets
are available through TicketWorld, 891.9999; or visit
ticketworld.com.ph.

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KEEPING SCORE

N ELEGANT, INTRICATE PIECE OF WORKUNLIKE ANYTHING

youve seen from Red Turnip so far. Its a bold promise from Jenny
Jamora as she speaks about her directorial debut, Moiss Kaufmans 33
Variations, which opens Red Turnips third season.
In the play, renowned musicologist Katherine Brandt embarks on a mission
to discover what drove the creation of a Beethoven masterpiece, the Diabelli
Variations, an intriguing set of 33 expressions of a single musical theme.
Brandts daughter Clara, on the other hand, is also in a mission: to find her
own place in her mothers life. As both mother and daughter maneuver
through Beethovens colorful life, they find themselves facing the challenges of
their own relationship and ultimately, uncover some of their answers within
the great composers music.
Winning the Edgerton New American Play Award in 2007 and the
Steinberg American Theatre Critics Association Best New Play Award in
2008, 33 Variations premiered on Broadway in 2009, earning two Tony
nominations including Best Play and Best Actress for Jane Fonda, who in this
production made her first appearance on Broadway in 46 years.
The cast of Red Turnips production includes theatre stalwarts Shamaine
Centenera-Buencamino (Katherine Brandt) and Teroy Guzman (Beethoven).
Joining them are Paolo O Hara (Anton Diabelli), Rem Zamora (Anton
Schindler) and Roselyn Perez (Gertrude Ladenburger). Rounding out the
cast are fresh faces Ina Fabregas (Clara) and Franco Chan (Mike Clark).
Opens July 24 and runs through August 23 at Whitespace, Don Chino Roces
Extension, Makati. Tickets are available through TicketWorld, 891.9999;
ticketworld.com.ph; and Red Turnip Theater, redturniptheater@gmail.com;
facebook.com/RedTurnipTheater.
LEE CUNDANGAN
N OT E WO RT H Y
Clockwise from top:
Sharmaine Buencamino;
Teroy Guzman; Paolo
OHara; and Ina
Fabregas lead the cast of
33 Variations.
P H OTO G R A P H S CO U RT E SY O F SO L A I R E R E SO RT A N D CAS I N O (4) A N D R E D T U R N I P (5)

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P H OTO G R A P H S CO U RT E SY O F A RT I N FO R M A L (6)

MENAGE A
TROIS 6

THIS MONTH, ART INFORMALS THREE ART SPACES

host an eclectic trio of artists: Yeo Kaa, Jojo Serrano, and
Joel Vega. In the Main Gallery, 25-year-old Kaa shows off
a new collection of works that all bear her trademarks: loud
and vibrant colors, cartoonish illustrations, and grotesque
and shocking subject matter. Though inspired by artists as
diverse as Jean Michel Basquiat, Pablo Picasso, Yoshitomo
Nara, Lynyrd Paras, and Jojo Legaspi, among others, Kaas
self-described pop-surrealism style is all her own. In the Big
Room, the Netherlands-based Vegas What Falls Apart
expands on themes he explored in his last exhibit at Art
Informal, 2014s A Stitch in Time. Revealing his lifelong
fascination with old photographs, Vega, a self-taught artist
and a Palanca award-winning poet, teases alternate meanings
from pictures by applying embroidery and stitched reliefs on
their surface, cleverly manipulating our perception of what
was originally captured on film. In the Inner Room, Serrano,
a student and longtime disciple of Roberto Chabet, reveals
Images on the Horizon. Known for his recalcitrance to
discuss the meanings of his works, Serranos art is captivating
for many reasons. His process of collage and painting, where
he reassembles images torn from architectural magazines and
science and nature journals, creates a rich tapestry of shapes,
colors, and textures, enticing the viewer to gaze upon the
works from multiple vantage points and distances, each time
uncovering something new. All three shows open on August
13 and run through September 12, 277 Connecticut Street,
Greenhills, San Juan; 725.8518; artinformal.com.

T R I P L E T H R E AT
Clockwise from top left: Untitled, by
Joel Vega; Burn Me with Your Fuckin
Words and Ill Never Be a Wife or
Mother, by Yeo Kaa; Untitled, by Jojo
Serrano; What Falls Apart and When
Hes Gone, by Joel Vega.

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LIFES RICH
PAGEANT
MAARTE 2015: A CRAFT,
Design, Food and Arts Fair, the
annual fundraiser of the Museum
Foundation of the Philippines, takes
place at the Rockwell Tent later this month.
After earning a well-deserved reputation as the
first artisan fair of its kind in Manila, MaArte
continues its thrust of showcasing the best
Philippine artisan creations. This year, more
than 70 carefully selected vendors and suppliers
are launching new product lines, answering the
challenge of the fairs organizers. Vying for your
attention on the shopping floor are textiles,
pottery, accessories, art, furniture, and many
other gift ideas. For green advocates, Halo
+ Halos bags and storage containers made
from repurposed or recycled plastics are a nice
chic surprise. Fair veteran Silay Export, on the
other hand, uses materials such as banana plant
and fern leaves for its vibrantly colored home
accessories. From Laguna, Casa San Pablo
Pottery Story Tellers produces rural-inspired
terracotta clay figures. Though whimsical in
appearance, theyre also functional, used as
vases or candleholders. Founded in Negros,
Hacienda Crafts brings a genteel and rustic
sensibility to its handcrafted home accents, while
Yakang-Yaka goes even further south to keep
the weaving traditions of the Yakans of Basilan,
the Tausugs of Jolo, and the Badjaos of Sula
and Zamboanga alive. Another great sense
of purpose fills the products from Abre Linya,
as the totes, clutches, pillows, and stools are all
handcrafted by the survivors of Typhoon Haiyan
in Leyte and Samar. August 28 to 30, from 9 a.m.
to 9 p.m. at the Rockwell Tent, Makati; for more
information, call 404.2685, 0927.8484680;
inquiry@museumfoundationph.org.

BRINGING ON THE HITS

ELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY, THE PROLIFIC SONGWRITER, COMPOSER,

and pianist Jim Brickman brings his Platinum Tour to Manila. Best known for his smooth adult
contemporary sound, Brickmana former commercial jingle composerfirst found fame with the
instrumental Rocket to the Moon from his debut album, No Words. After a string of solo hits, he began
successfully collaborating with other artists including country star Martina Mcbride, 80s pop icon Kenny
Loggins, Michael W. Smith, Lady Antebellum, and Jane Krakowski. Earlier this year, Brickman released his
latest solo collection, Pure Romance. An homage to some of his favorite artists, he covers tunes such as Stings
Fields of Gold and Sarah McLachlans I Will Remember You, while providing new soulful renditions
of his signature hits including The Gift, Love of my Life, and Valentine. Jim Brickman: The Platinum
Tour is presented by Grand Leisure Corporation. August 8, 8 p.m. at The Theater at Solaire; tickets available through
Ticketworld (891.9999 or ticketworld.com.ph); solaireresort.com; jimbrickman.com

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P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F T H E M U S E U M F O U N D AT I O N O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S ( 7 ) A N D J I M B R I C K M A N . C O M ( 8 )

CRAFT
WORKS
A selection of
wares from Halo +
Halo, Silay Export,
Hacienda Crafts,
Yakang Yaka, and
Abre Linga.

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ART FOR EVERYONE

P H O T O G R A P H S B Y M I G S C A S T R O ( 9 ) A N D C O U R T E S Y O F T H E AYA L A M U S E U M ( 1 0 )

AST FEBRUARY, CLAIRE GANZON, AN ARTIST AT SILAHIS NG

Kalusugan at UP-PGH, wanted to mount a fundraiser for a

group of children with critical illnesses at the hospital. She
wanted artworks painted by children of the school to hang in
a space for a couple of days, where they could be viewed and possibly
bought. When she found the space, she got more than she hoped for. She
was given an entire month. Moreover, the kids were treated to their own
vernissage, and their art provided with certificates of authentication. This
was how Prism, a petite new gallery in Legazpi Village, Makati, had its
inaugural show.
Established by marketing consultant Joanna Marigold Tantoco, Prism
treads a slightly different path from that taken by the citys white cube
galleries. Located under the shadow of the Columns Legaspi and a stones
throw from the Asian Institute of Management, it looks more like a
student-friendly hangout straight out of Maginhawa Street. What was
once a laundromat is now a pastel-colored cozy art space that anyone can
feel comfortable walking into.
I wanted something that is welcoming, a place that visitors will not
find intimidating, Tantoco says. She intends to showcase the works that
are fresh and new, either works by artists who never had the chance to be
exhibited, or under-the-radar artists who want to show their new works.
A recent show for example showed a variety of illustrations from the
collective Ilustrador ng Kabataan, from veterans such as Robert Alejandro
to newer members of the group.
Having studied industrial design at the University of the Philippines
College of Fine Arts alongside her business course, it is no surprise that
Tantoco also wants to highlight the craftmaking side of art. These include
the fast-disappearing skills of local artisans such as weaving, wooden
sculpture carving and even the humble art of making pastillas wrappers.
The latter is the inspiration for this months show, which carries the works
of four artists specialising in paper art. They are Pergy Acua, Liza Flores,
Lala Gallardo, and Albert Badz Magsumbol.
Apart from the shows, visitors can also attend its regular workshops.
Tantoco wants it to function as a space where ordinary folk can release
their creative juices. These include the areas working professionals who
by day practice commercial art, but want to find a venue where they can
channel their free ideas. In the same way a prism unravels the rainbow of
colors composing white light, here is a space that invites them to reveal
the artist inside. Ground Floor, Island Tower Condominium, 239 Salcedo Street,
Legazpi Village; 886.3947. IRWIN CRUZ

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OUT&ABOUT

SPECIAL
EFFECTS
Augmented reality
brings the Ayala Museum
diorama to life.

HISTORY, 10
REVISITED

ITS NO EXAGGERATION TO SAY THAT

generations of Filipino children have grown up seeing
the Ayala Museums Diorama Experience of Philippine
History exhibition, and for many, once is enough. But
Mariles Gustilo, senior director for arts and culture of
the Ayala Foundation, believes otherwise, especially with
the addition of the latest virtual reality technology to
enhance the viewing experience. We want to make the
dioramas relevant to generations of Filipinos to come,
Gustilo said at the launch of the Dioramas new 3D
Augmented Reality feature, which brings the exhibits
to life with animation, realistic sound and visual effects,
and voice narration, which are seen and heard through
portable devices like a tablet or mobile phone. Museum
visitors just have to install the Augmented Reality software
on their devices (or they can rent units from the museum)
and focus the camera on one of the dioramas. In just a
few seconds, the once-static displays bristle with action:
people and animals move in the background, and smoke,
fire, and gunshots bring tension to the battle scenes. Small
bits of torn up cedulas rain down during the historic Cry of
Balintawak, while the Philippine flag waves triumphantly
as independence is declared. The AR technology for the
dioramas, billed as the first 3D-on-3D art exhibit in the
Philippines, was created by the Harish & Johnsen Group,
a global management consultancy company. Makati
Avenue corner De la Rosa Street, Makati; 759.8288;
ayalamuseum.org; hello@ayalamuseum.org.

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DINING

TRADITION

+ INNOVATION

FOOD
E VO LU T I O N

Partners and siblings JP

Anglo and Tracie Anglo
Dizon; crispy crablets
and crunchy tawilis;
ensalada espinada.

At the newly opened Kafe

Batwan, chef JP Anglo
creates and innovates
while remaining true to
the essence of his native
Filipino cuisine.
BY ALICIA COLBY SY

of freshness that is neither

intimidating nor alienating to
those who insist on referencing
their grandmothers recipes.
On the occasion that you
drop by at breakfast, enjoy the
comforting tsokolate tsamporado porridge with a side of gourmet
tuyo, or a healthy bowl of granola made by surfers from La Union
served with a side of creamy carabaos milk and fresh fruit. For
a quick and light lunch, our choices are the inasal burrito, tasty
deboned chicken wrapped in a tortilla with pumpkin salsa and a
side of fresh green chili sauce, or the Madrid Fusin super batchoy
served ramen-style with a slice of grilled kurobuta charsiu. For a
more prolonged meal, start with an order of both the crispy tawilis
and crablets and the trio of Filipino spreads and follow with sauted
prawns bathed in a sauce of beans, chocolate, and a touch of aligue.
For dessert, both offerings on the menu are musts: the chocnut turon
and the warm suman budbud with sizzling coconut sauce. Joya
Tower, Amorsolo Avenue, Rockwell, Makati.

A BITE OF SPAIN
WITH THE RECENT OPENING OF BAR PINTXOS TAPAS
y Mas, Miguel Vecin and Martin Gonzalez bring the authentic
world of a traditional Spanish tapas bar to Alabang. A casual
and comfortable space, it is perfect for a weekday happy
hour with colleagues or a weekend afternoon spent with
good friends. Much like the tapas bars in Spain, it caters an
assortment of tapas, bocadillos, and, of course, pintxos.
Popular in the Basque region of Spain, pintxos are snacks
that are usually served on a piece of bread and held together
with a small wooden skewer, and, as the bars name suggests,
options here are aplenty. Choose from many seafood
items like gildas, a combination of anchovies, olives, and
pickled peppers, or a mix of crab and shrimp seasoned with
pimenton and aioli. Diners may also opt for familiar tapas
like the popular gambas al ajillo and croquetas or the more
unique items like the tortilla gulas, a potato omelet made

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with baby eels and crunchy garlic, and the guindillas fritas
or fried pickled Spanish peppers.
Carnivores need not fret as there are enough meat
alternatives offered as well. This list includes Moorish
pork skewers, chorizo and quail eggs, and beef salpicao.
Highly recommended hot sandwiches are the chori
burger, a beef chorizo burger with pimenton cream
cheese, and arugula, and the Don Quixote Manchego
bocadillo made with cheese and jamon Serrano.
The menu is expected to constantly evolve in the coming
months and the owners have made it their mission to
constantly experiment with different ingredients and
come up with new items as frequently as possible.
In addition to the regular beers, spirits, and sangria
usually served at a tapas bar, a collection of craft beers
including a house Bar Pintxos IPA brew from local craft
beer maker, Crows, and a selection of beers on tap are
available. 116 Don Gesu Building, Don Jesus Boulevard,
Alabang Hills, Muntinlupa; 831.0065. SANJEEB GOPALDAS

P H OTO G R A P H S BY G A B BY C A N T E R O ( P I N T XO S ) A N D M I G U E L N A C I A N C E N O ( K A F E B AT WA N )

HERE HAS BEEN A CALL TO ARMS RECENTLY FOR

innovation and newness when it comes to Philippine cooking
and we couldnt be happier. This noticeable openness in the
dining public, paired with a mounting interest among chefs for
utilizing indigenous ingredients, indicates that the time may have
finally come for a collective social acceptance of modern Filipino
cuisine. Enter Kafe Batwan. Its concept is not new, really, but what
may set this contemporary Filipino eatery apart from the many that
have come before it, is that while it takes its food very seriously, it is
meant to be consumed casually.
Opened by the Sarsa group (best known for its Negrense
restaurant, Sarsa), Kafe Batwan is decidedly different from its
regional predecessor. To start, its menu is more sophisticated in
nature and its interiors are better appointed. The dcor tastefully
reflects the foodcontemporary, stylish, warm, but progressive,
says co-owner and resident designer Tracie Anglo Dizon. No
design clichs. Like the food. Of a certain place and time. The
project that has been more than a year in the making, Dizon relays,
and many discussions took place about the fact that Filipinos have
not been receptive to progressive Filipino food in the past. We
wanted to create something new and interesting but still familiar,
she continues. Chef JP Anglo is at his playful best here but there
is always that undercurrent of comfort. His ideas are coated in
familiarity and believe me when I say that the menu has been revised
about 100 times. Three meals later, we agree that the hundredth
time is the charm and the opening menu is a successful balance

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F O O D P H I LO S O P H Y
Sustainability is of extreme importance
at Fig. Clockwise: Duck tagine with
jeweled couscous; Figs stylish interiors;
saganaki served with poached pears; flat
bread pizzas and specialty cocktails.

roasted red peppers and feta, to the dough

of its Turkish-inspired flatbread pizzas.
In the kitchen, chef Patrice Martelly has
realized Lovinas vision. He is churning out
homemade sausages from across the region,
including a merguez filled with spices and
the earnest gaminess of lamb, and tagines
that embrace both tradition and modernity,
like a bowl filled with magret de canard,
dates, and rose water. No surprise, as he
recounts his past working everywhere from
Turkey to Australia and Egypt to Tokyo,
where his experiences had him play parts
as diverse as chocolatier and butcher. It
is an unlikely combination, but all play a
part in Martellys work here. There is the
promise of robust flavor from meat as only
a butcher would know, but a delicate hand
when it comes to his plating. A chicken liver
parfait comes with a fig jelly and sorbet
quenelled almost to perfection. A chocolate
mousse balances on the plate, filled with
mango coulis and spiced for a hint of dark,
savory heat. A stark white saganaki has caramelized, almost burnt
edges, and is plated with fans of dates and pears that have adopted
the color of the wine they have been poached in.
Martellys food matches Figs interiors, which is miles away
from its neighbors in the area newly minted as Williamsburgos.
It is a gem, full of open space and light. Mediterranean by way of
London, reminiscent of Ottolenghis Nopi, with marble counters
and minimalist but Moorish-inspired decor. There is a beautiful
rooftop as well, which transports you out of Makati, perfect for
sipping cocktails which the restaurant has become known for too.
Lovinas keen eye for detail is prevalent throughout Fig, with a
menu and space that she has developed and conceptualized; it
seems as if the place is filled with shades of her unique character:
sophisticated but with an honest sensibility. She wants people to
know that you can eat well and healthy, without compromising on
quality. It may sound like an impossible task to accomplish both,
but at Fig, Lovina is trying to prove otherwise. 8486 Kalayaan
Avenue, Makati.

MEDITERRANEAN

MEDLEY
Off the beaten path in
Makati, a sophisticated new
restaurant serves dishes that are
healthy and sustainable with
Mediterranean flair.
BY PAMELA CORTEZ

N MANILAS DINING SCENE, THE

words farm-to-table and organic, no matter
how honest the movement, are
used too often and hardly ever in the
right context. Because of this, the tags
have turned into trendy appellations
shunned by diners as nothing more
than the years overwrought food
trend. There are restaurants, however,
which truly stick to the philosophy
of good food with sustainability,
with a clear-cut vision of beautiful
local produce that translates into
straightforward flavors.
Fig Restaurant and Bar has
taken up that task, with a dedicated
menu that has it sourcing most of
its ingredients from local farmers,
with 90 percent of it organic. It sounds arduous, but for Macky
Lovina, environmentalist-turned-restaurateur, it is the quality
that matters. Influenced by her time spent in San Francisco,
she dreamt up a beautiful space with dishes of a Mediterranean
inflection that are as close to their roots as it gets. Almost
everything is made in-house, from their punchy htipiti combining
Photographs by GABBY CANTERO

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WINE

CHILL
FACTOR

Spring frost kills off a lot of good Chablis.

You should go out and hunt down the rest.
BY JAY MCINERNEY

T THIS TIME OF YEAR I SOMETIMES

worry about Chablis, the town

and the wine. April has always
been the cruelest month for vintners
at the northern edge of Burgundy,
where the prosperous medieval village
of Chablis is located. It was warm
when I visited last April, but the
region is prone to spring frosts that
can wipe out budding vines. When
the weather favors them, as it has

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more frequently in recent years, the

Chablisiens make one of the most
haunting wines in the world, a racy
white that tastes more mineral than
vegetable, more saline than sweet,
with a lively acidity that tingles
the palate like an electric shock. An
ocean of swill from other parts of the
world has been marketed under the
name Chablis, but the real thing is
inimitable.

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My grandfather lost all of his crop

in 1960, 90 percent in 61, and the
whole crop again in 62, says Fabien
Moreau, a cheerful 40-year-old, as we
walk through the vines of Les Clos, a
steep, south-facing vineyard. Moreaus
family has made wine in the region for
200 years; he took over the ancestral
domain, Christian Moreau Pre et Fils,
in 2001, after studying oenology in
Dijon and management in Bordeaux.
In April 2003 the temperature
dropped to 25 degrees for three
days, devastating the young shoots.
Since then the development of frost
prevention methods, including
sprinkler systems and heaters called
smudge pots, has helped save many
vintages from annihilation. So has
global warming, Moreau says, echoing
a common observation among growers
in Chablis and elsewhere.
Moreau stoops and scoops up a
handful of tiny oyster fossils called
virgula, artifacts of the Paris Basin,
a Jurassic sea that stretched north all
the way to the town of Kimmeridge,
in Dorset, England. That village gave
its name to the geologic formation
and the period in which it was
created: Kimmeridgian limestone,
formed in part from these ancient
shells, underlies all the best vineyards
of Chablis. No scientific research
accounts for the affinity between
oysters and Chablis, but when you try
the two together its easy to imagine
a dialogue of sorts between the fresh

F R O M L E F T: E M I L I O S U E TO N E/ H E M I S/ CO R B I S; P E T E R C U R B I S H L E Y

W E AT H E R
PERMITTING
In a good year, Chablis
can be heavenly.

WINE

AUSTERE
DISPOSITION
Bernard Raveneau, of Domaine
Raveneau, samples a barrel.

specimens and their fossilized forebears. The marginal

climate, the Kimmeridgian marl, and the chardonnay grape
(the only permitted variety) produce a white like no other.

OWEN FRANKEN/CORBIS

ES CLOS IS ONE OF SEVEN SLOPING, SOUTH-FACING

Grand Cru vineyards from which one has an excellent view

of Chabliss half-timbered houses, just across the Serein
River. The land here enjoys the most sun, whereas Premier Crus,
the second rung on the classification of quality, tend to have
slightly less favored southeast exposures. The gradations follow
centuries of empirical observation, starting with Cistercian
monks in the Middle Ages.
Ranking growers is more subjective, although two names,
Raveneau and Dauvissat, have long been the most celebrated
and have produced the most expensive wines of the region.
(Franois Raveneau, who assembled his eponymous domaine
and brought it to fame in the 1960s and 70s, was married to a
Dauvissat.) The two use similar techniques and make wine with
grapes from some of the same vineyards, although experienced
tasters can usually tell them apart and have a strong preference.
As good as both are, Raveneau has long garnered the highest
prices and the most critical acclaim, even as it remained for
years something of a secret. In fact, prices of older vintages
have shot up in the auction market this year, approaching and
surpassing the whites from the Cte de Beaune.
The Raveneau home and winery are in the middle of the
town of Chablis, the entrance marked by a wrought iron
sign depicting a man with a hoe. Its easy to find, but gaining
access is notoriously difficult, so I felt privileged when I
crossed the threshold last year and met the affable, softspoken Isabelle Raveneau. As a student Isabelle fled the town
of 2,700 to see the world, but she returned a few years ago
to take up the family business.
The cellar is moldy, with nary a new barrel in sight.
The wines are raised in small used oak barrels, which
are porous enough to allow limited exposure to oxygen,
softening the rather searing acidity of Chablis. We were
joined in the cellar by her father Bernard, whose demeanor
hovers between diffident and dour. In fairness, for a vintner
in Chablis, with its fickle weather, its probably hard to

T&C 31

OUT&ABOUT

maintain a sunny disposition. As we began

tasting 2013s from the barrel, Bernard described
the vintage as one that started poorly and
ended poorly, culminating in a downpour on
October 5. I thought the wines surprisingly good,
considering, but I had to admire his candor. Its
not often you hear a vintner trash a vintage in his
own cellar. In fact, I think this was a first for me
in 20 years as a wine writer. Bernard was much
happier, as he should have been, with his 2012s (a
classic vintage), which recently started appearing
in U.S. stores.
The cellars of Dauvissat are just a short walk
from Raveneaueverything in this village is a
short walkbut outside theres no sign; Vincent
Dauvissat doesnt want unscheduled visitors. His
cellar, under his house, is crammed with mostly
used barrels, although he throws a few new
ones into the mix, which may explain why his
wines are slightly broader and more accessible
than Raveneaus. His outlook seems sunnier than
Bernards too. Although Dauvissat was nervous
about the 2013s initially, he was happy with the
results six months after harvest. But in his cellar,
too, the 2012 really shone: classic, lean, mineral
Chablis, reminiscent of the great 2008s.
When my traveling companion, Beaver Truax
of New York Citys Flatiron Wines, tasted the
2012 Les Preuses, a Grand Cru, he turned to
me with a beatific smile and said, Its sort of
like chewing pebbles. And he meant that as a
compliment. If it sounds strange, I urge you to try
a bottle of Grand Cru Chablis.
There are many fine producers of Chablis
whose wines sell for a fraction of the cost of
Raveneau and Dauvissat, including newcomer
Patrick Piuze, an migr from Montreal whose
winery sits across the street from Dauvissats
house. The wines made by Fabien Moreau for his
Domaine Christian Moreau are particularly pure
examples, as are those of Domaine Louis Michel
& Fils. Among the few big players in the region,
Domaine William Fvre, whose neoclassical
headquarters is the dominant building in
town, and Joseph Drouhin, the great Burgundy
ngociant, both make excellent Chablis.
Why do I like Chablis so much? When I got
home I tried to explain it to my wife, who is
a Champagne drinker, and suddenly it hit me.
Chablis and Champagne are both lean whites
grown at the edge of viable viticulture, and
Chablis (the village) is in fact much closer to the
Champagne region than to Beaune, the center of
Burgundy. So Chablis is basically Champagne
without bubbles, I said while serving her a 2005
Raveneau Monte de Tonnerre, accompanied by
wild striped bass with green curry.
I could drink this anytime, she said. Later
in the week, over a bottle of 2000 Dauvissat La
Forest, she officially became a convert. Now I
have to share.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

OUT&ABOUT

WINE

RHONE
Masterpiece
Michel Chapoutier has been creating wine
from one of Frances greatest terroirs since 1990.
Twenty-five years later, he has successfully taken
his passion and winemaking philosophy around the globe.

HERE ARE PERSONALITIES THAT TEND TO LEAVE A

strong and lasting impression and Michel Chapoutier,

the outspoken and sometimes controversial vigneron of
Maison M. Chapoutier in Frances Rhone valley, is certainly
one of them. He is, as the story goes, the man who bypassed his
h
old winemaking
father when he bought his familys 200-year-old
business directly from his grandfather at the age of 26, and
subsequently fired both his father and brother soon after. Two
decades and several award-winning wines later, he has gained
the respect of his peers and critics, not only for his strong
opinions, boundless enthusiasm, and seemingly endless
energy, but more importantly for his love and passion
for the vine. While M. Chapoutier is best known for the
wines it makes at the esteemed Hermitage appellation in
the northern Rhone, it is also one of the valleys leading
producers with stakes in other leading Rhone winemaking
areas including the Cte Rtie, Condrieu, Saint-Joseph,
Chteauneuf du Pape and Crozes-Hermitage. Over the
years, the maison has diversified its holdings and now
produces wine in the Ctes du Roussillon and Alsace
regions of France as well as in Australia and Portugal.
Combining a traditional love for terroir with innovative
biodynamic and organic farming techniques, Chapoutier
considers soil to be extremely importantit wouldnt
be a stretch to call it an obsession. In Fac et Spera, a short
documentary about Chapoutier and his wineries, he
declares, Fruit is to wine what disco is to music.
GRAPE EXPECTATIONS
People talk a lot about fruit and thats okay for a 3-euro
M. Chapoutier was the first
bottlefor disco wine. But fruit for A.O.C. wine?
wine producer to introduce
Its not the same thing at all. We need the signature of
braille on its labels as a
tribute to Maurice de la
the soil. Chapoutier notes that nowadays everyone
Sizeranne, president of the
talks about oenology and not enough about agronomy
French association for the
blind, on the Monier de la
or viticulture. Good wine, he believes, should always
Sizeranne Hermitage 1994
be a faithful snapshot of the soil where the grapes
bottles. Since 1996, all of
its bottles have had braille
are grown. The work done on the vine creates the
labels on them which include
potential for quality, he shares. In the cellar you can
information such as vintage,
vineyard, region, and color.
only transfer the potential into quality, you cant create
By A L I C I A C O L B Y S Y

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 32

quality. An astute businessman, Chapoutier knows

that as customers are enjoying more types of wine
from around the globe and embracing a range of
styles and grape varietals, its the unique sense of
place and faithfulness to the terroir associated with
individual wines that will become increasingly
important for drinkers.
Diverse and complex, the wines of M.
Chapoutier are made to enjoy
with food and are therefore an
excellent option for those in
search of a good bottle for pairing
with a particular dish. We are
here to serve gastronomy, he
says, and laments that while
there is an increasing number
of winemakers, many of them
arent food lovers and make wine
that dont necessarily marry well
with the flavors and textures of
food. I find it regrettable in our
profession that no one has had
the good idea of including cooking classes
at wineries. As a pioneer and trailblazer in
the world of winemaking, perhaps this is an
opportunity for another first from Michel
Chapoutier. Available at Premium Wine
Exchange, Smith Bell Building, 2294 Don Chino
Roces Avenue Extension, Makati, 812.3823.

DRINKING NOW
Hermitage Monier de la
Sizeranne Rouge 2011
Hermitage ChanteAlouette Blanc 2012
Ctes du Roussillon Villages
Occultum Lapidem
Rouge 2013
Crozes-Hermitage
Petit Ruche Rouge 2012
Chteauneuf du Pape
Le Bernardine 2012
Ctes du Rhne
Belleruche Blanc 2013
Tournon Shays Flat
Vineyard Pyrenees Shiraz
2012, Australia
Note: Unlike Bordeaux and
Burgundy, the Rhone Valley does
not have a classification system.

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treat the problem, it restores the bodys natural
processes, enabling the skin to heal or protect
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In France, where Bioderma products were
developed and are made, many beauty closets
include its cult-favorite cleanser and makeup
removerthe Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar
Solution. Containing micelles, small molecules
that open and grab dirt, oil, and grime when
swiped over the skin, then close after the cotton
pad is lifted from the skin, it works like a smart
vacuum cleaner, removing just the impurities
without stripping it of its natural moistureunlike
cleansers or toners that leave behind harsh
chemicals or contain irritating alcohol. Over
one bottle is sold every three seconds across
the globe, and it doesnt only remove dirt and
makeup, it also balances and de-stresses the skin.
Best of all, no rinsing is required! From this star
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Biodermas range, which work for every skin type
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Bioderma is distributed in the Philippines
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BIOLOGY AT THE SERVICE OF DERMATOLOGY.

OUT&ABOUT

C O C K TA I L S

WHISKY
IN THE VALLEY

Glenfiddich, which means valley of the deer in Scottish Gaelic,

recreates its Dufftown distillery in this educational, entertaining,
and intoxicating traveling show. BY PIERRE A. CALASANZ

N 1886, AFTER WORKING NEARLY

20 years at the Mortlach Distillery in
Dufftown, Scotland, William Grant had
had enough. Striding like a man possessed into
his bosss office, he proceeded to pour the entire
contents of a whisky bottle onto the floor
before confidently walking outthats if we are
to believe a short film about the founder of the
Glenfiddich distillery. Creative dramatizations
aside, what actually took place in Grants life
was equally compelling.
Walking away from a steady incomea
salary of a hundred pounds a month
while having to provide for a wife and nine
children might have been terribly risky, but
Grant, who was 47 at the time, did exactly
that to fulfill his dream of producing the
best dram in the valleythe whisky that
eventually would become the worlds bestselling and most awarded single malt. With
his lifes savings, he purchased second-hand
equipment from a neighboring distillery and
with the help of his seven sons and a single
stonemason, Grant built the familys own
distillery, brick by brick. After more than a
year of toil, the first batch of spirit flowed
from the copper stills on Christmas Day,
1887. Hows that for a Hollywood ending?

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

DRINK AND LEARN

This dramatic company history is just one
of the fascinating aspects of Glenfiddich
that is presented at its Valley of the Deer
experience, an interactive tour that is
slowly making its way across Asia. First
held in Bangkok in 2014, the most recent
staging was held at the historic Carcosa
Seri Negara hotel in Malaysia, where
whisky aficionados sampled Glenfiddichs
portfolio while learning about the
complex processes involved in making
whisky and the family behind it.
In a large tent set up on the grounds of
the century-old hotel, guests first walked
through a hall showing short films about
the Grant family. In the next section,
the intricacies of whisky-making were
discussed. In one of the more entertaining
demonstrations, Ian McDonald,
Glenfiddichs head cooper, displayed the
skills behind the assembly and repair of
the oak casks or barrels.
If McDonald makes it look easy, its
because hes been at his craft for the past
46 years. I get tired just watching the
coopers. I usually leave [their workshop]
after ten minutes, jokes Ian Millar,

T&C 34

Glenfiddichs global brand ambassador.

Theres a lot of technique, not just brute
force, counters McDonald. Im lucky I
still have all my ten fingers!
After all this talk of making whisky,
the next stage of the tour was the most
anticipatedthe actual tasting at the
hotels bar. With options displayed on an
LCD screen, each guest was asked to choose
his favored flavor profile. Depending on
your selectionfruit, citrus, burnt toffee,
smoky, peppery, and woody were just some
of the choicesthe bartender would pour
a dram of Glenfiddich 12 Year Old, 15 Year
Old, 18 Year Old, or 21 Year Old. Through
an electronic chip attached to the whisky
glass you could find out more about your
drink by placing it on a specially designed
interactive tabletop. Once activated, the
LCD screen would flash images of your
selected whisky as well as details such as its
distinctive flavor profiles and crafting notes.
With this highly interactive and intoxicating
way of delivering information, small wonder
that guests had a hard time leaving this area.
UPON CLOSER INSPECTION
Glenfiddich is one of the very few distilleries
that still has its own coopers working
on site; besides McDonald, there are five
others, plus two apprentices. The coopers
importance cannot be underestimated, says
Millar, as much of Glenfiddichs flavor is

P H OTO G R A P H S CO U RT E SY O F G L E N F I D D I C H/
WILLIAM GRANT & SONS

IN HIGH SPIRITS
The Glenfiddich distillery
in Scotland; founder
William Grant and his
wife Elizabeth. Opposite:
Celebrity brand advocate
Godfrey Gao with
Glenfiddichs Head
Cooper Ian McDonald;
a bottle of the highly
sought-after 50 Year Old
single malt.

C O C K TA I L S
attributed to the time the whisky spends in
the wooden casks. Around 65 percent of
the flavor comes from the oak that whisky
is matured in, reveals Millar.
In the last decade, the whisky industry
experienced a period of remarkable growth
(whisky, historically, goes through a
boom and bust cycle, reminds Matthew
Fergusson-Stewart, regional brand
ambassador for Glenfiddich) thanks to
the rising demand for single malt. And
because of this, according to Millar, there is
a growing demand for the best quality wood
for the whisky casks. With the worst-case
scenario of a shortage from traditional oak
sources such as the United States and Spain,
Glenfiddich has been augmenting its supply
from Europe, looking at countries such as
Hungary and Romania.
But if wood gives so much of the
whiskys flavor, wont changing the
source impact its flavor? Millar has
an easy answer. Thats the job of our
master blender, Brian Kinsman, who
has methods of keeping the flavors
pure and consistent. Marrying the
different whiskies at the end of the
maturation process takes away some of
the individual characteristics that come
from some types of casks. At the end of
maturation, we combine the whisky that
matured in American oak and European
oak for a minimum of three months.
These whiskies get to know each other
on a molecular level. Its something that
cant be done mechanically by putting
it in a vat and spinning it together. You
wont get the same outcome.
Unlike wine, where terroir
is highly significant, Millar and
Fergusson-Stewart are of the
opinion that it plays a minimal role
l
in developing a whiskys flavor.
avo
With wine, your fruit is very
susceptible to weather conditions,
conditi
whether you are on a wtest-facing
wtest-fa
or east-facing slope, the rainfall.
rainfall
But barley isnt as sensitive. There
are other aspects where terroir
terroi
can play a role, particularly
when all our production is
done on site, every drop
of water comes from our
Robbie Dhu spring, peat
can come from different
areas offering different
aromas and flavors, and
that can be quite distinctive.
So there is a little bit, but
not like what you get from
wine, shares Millar.

OUT&ABOUT

Fergusson-Stewart also
frowns on the trend of
regionalizing certain traits
of whisky. Look at the
Highlands, you have vast
differences in how whisky
in the region tastes. There
are some characteristics,
like how Islay is known
for the rich smoky stuff,
but the reasons for that
are not due to climate or
weatherI dont like the
regional view of whisky,
there are too many
exceptions, he says.
FIVE GENERATIONS
AND COUNTING
Since its founding in 1887, Glenfiddich
has been run directly by the heirs of
William Grant. Oddly enough, while the
family firm was named William Grant &
Sons, for one reason or another, much of
the business through the years has been
managed by a branch descending from one
of Grants two daughters, Isabella Grant,
and her husband Charles Gordon. In fact,
the current global rage for single malt can
be attributed to Grants great-grandson,
Alexander Sandy Grant Gordon, who
was the first to realize the international
potential. As inconceivable as it seems
today, before then, single malt was largely
a domestic product consumed only in the
United Kingdom. In 1963, he arrived in
New York and introduced to the United
States market their first
taste of single malt. It
began the conquest of
what previously had been
blended Scotch territory.
Sandys brother Charles
eventually became the
companys life president,
and he took an active part
in the company until his
death in 2013. Charles son
Glenn Gordon has been
the companys chair since
2012, but the day-to-day
operations are handled
by the highly experienced
and respected beverages
executive, Stella David.
The continued success of
this family-run business is
celebrated in the recently
published book, Family
Spirit: Stories and Insights
from Leading Family-

T&C 35

Owned Enterprises (Chronicle Books, 2015).

Peter Gordon, the former chairman and
great-great-grandson of William Grant,
shares the secret to the smooth running
of the business: Today nine individuals
represent roughly 90 percent of the shares
in our business. Thats a very low number,
but it allows us to act quite quickly.
TURNING JAPANESE?
Much was made of a recently published
whisky guidebook where a Japanese
whisky emerged as the worlds best, at
least in the eyes of well-known critic.
SiJie Leaw, William Grant & Sons
regional brand manager, welcomes the
development. I wouldnt see Japanese
whiskies as a threat, I think they are
helping the Scotch whisky industry
build the single malt category as a whole.
Because of Japanese ingenuity and also
because of their position, their products
are known for their high quality.
Millar smiles and shrugs off the
comparison. I personally dont think they
have the production capacity to sustain
the kind of growth that they have now.
Remember, you cant just produce a 12-, or
an 18-year-old. I think they [the Japanese]
were surprised by their success over the last
two, three years. So what they are doing
is actually selling less, so their prices have
doubled. The 18 has trebled, because of
demand. It will be interesting to see what
happens in the long term.
Fergusson-Stewart takes a different tack.
Almost every year, its a Scotch whisky
thats ranked the best, he deadpans. Its not
a story because its expected. It will probably
go back to being a Scotch whisky next year
and it will never get reported.
Touch.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

OUT&ABOUT

TECHNOLOGY
PLUG IT IN
AUDIO-TECHNICA
SONIC PRO ATH-CKR10
Of course, youll need hi-res
earphones, preferably in-ear (more
convenient), to go with your hi-res
music player. What makes the
Sonic Pro superior is its use of
a unique push-pull system: Two
forward facing drivers generate phasealigned audio signals, which are mixed
together to compensate for each drivers
inefficiencies. By reducing distortion, the
system delivers life-like soundspacious,
expansive, and detailednuances that
hi-res music contains. audio-technica.com.

CAN YOU
HEAR IT?
High fidelity music
makes a comeback.

BY CLIFFORD OLANDAY

UDIOPHILES LAMENT THAT, SINCE THE ADVENT OF THE MP3 MUSIC

file, we have been, in fact, listening to music with lower resolution than CD
quality. Constraints in storage space have prevented the newer audio formats from
faithfully reproducing what has been recorded in the studio. To fit portable devices,
music files have been compressed, which leads to a loss of a lot of information
all those nuances like the layered trills of a singer, a whispering beat, or the slow
denouement of the last note that make a satisfying wall of sound. But now, with the
accessibility of more storage space, the movement toward high-resolution
music and lossless formats (anything above CD quality, typically 24-bit
with a sampling frequency of 88.2kHz or more) has become viable again.
Care to take a listen? Here are three hi-res audio devices to try.

PLAY AT HOME
MUSAIC MP10 MUSIC PLAYER
With multi-room music set-ups gaining
momentum, British audio company
Musaic introduces what it claims the
first smart wireless hi-fi system. Its
MP10 Music Player speaker unit expands
the listening sweet spot, filling a room
with rich, natural sound that remains
clear wherever you are. Its compatible
with various streaming services and
will have access to 15,000 online radio
stations, too. The smart part? The device
talks to your home, controlling lighting
moods and integrating with security
and other
automation
technologies.
musaic.com.

CLASS SYSTEM

THE UNITED KINGDOMS AUTOMOTIVE MARQUES ARE BUT

a reflection of British class and style. Ladies swoon over driving the
cute Mini Cooper, while men dream of possessing a Jaguar XJ. The
gorgeous, carefully designed, and sophisticated automobiles are the
products of the genius of British engineers. It comes without surprise
that the United Kingdom is home to many of the worlds most revered
automotive brands such as Jaguar, Mini, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Land
Rover, Lotus, MG, and Morgan. The British Embassy Manila recently
celebrated this heritage with a car show that presented some of its
best. The Great British Auto Show held at Estancia, Capitol Commons,
called on all owners of British cars to display their vehicles, from
vintage collectors items to modern ones, bringing together Manilas
car fanatics and enthusiasts. MIKAELLA EVARISTO

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 36

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F S O N Y, S O N I C P R O ,
A N D M U SA I C; BY I A N SA N TOS ( CA R S)

CARRY EVERYWHERE
SONY WALKMAN NW-ZX2
Welcome, the new Walkman! The upsides of this Android-powered
portable audio device are many: a generous built-in capacity of 128GB
with an option for microSD expansion of 64GB, extensive file support, a
promise up to 33 hours of hi-res playback (60 hours for MP3) on a single
charge, a handsome solid form, and, most important, onboard Wi-Fi,
which allows access to the hi-fi music streaming services like Tidal. The
downside: its a bit pricey at over P50,000. sony.com.ph.

OUT&ABOUT

BOOKS

GOLDEN

BOY

Fendi gave Karl Lagerfeld a book

to celebrate his 50 years at the
company. And hes surprisingly
good at sharing.

BY STELLENE VOLANDES

U N I O N S U P P O RT
Clockwise from top: Fendi
mink and Swarovski
crystal coat, fendi.com;
Karl Lagerfelds sketch of
himself, featured in the
Fendi anniversary book;
the first ready-to-wear
collection; launched in 1977;
Lagerfelds sketches; the
Fendi sisters.

UGUS

0 5

statement is quoted so often it might as well be on a (mink)

Fendi T-shirt. And as he marks 50 years of designing for the
companycurrently the longest collaboration in fashionthe
phrase will likely find its way into the book celebrating the union.
The retrospective Fendi by Karl Lagerfeld (Steidl) chronicles the
history of the partnership largely through Lagerfelds sketches.
Some are simple lines: a self-portrait, an outline of an image of
the five Fendi sisters. Others are more elaborate realizations
of signature pieces from Fendi collections past. The 30-minute
video accompanying the book is a one-on-one Q&A session with
Lagerfeld, in his trademark glasses and cut-off leather gloves, with
a goblet of Diet Coke at his side. Can you draw your first day at
Fendi? the off-camera interviewer asks. In seconds Lagerfeld is
reaching for black markers and crayons to render the Cerruti hat,
printed Ascot tie, and Norfolk jacket he wore to the meeting.
Clients and fans will recognize landmark moments in the
companys history throughout: the Mappamondo fur, the creation
of the brown stripe-on-stripe logo, the 24k gold mink, the 2008
show on the Great Wall of China. Those whose introduction to the
Fendi universe came laterperhaps through the purchase of the
ubiquitous Baguette bag of the late 1990smight be surprised at
the dominant role fur plays in the timeline: Ready-to-wear was not
introduced until 1977. Fur recently asserted its place in Fendi history
once again when the house presentedfor the first time at Paris
Couturea collection of one-of-a-kind furs called Haute Fourrure.
To order at National Book Store and Powerbooks.

T&C 38

P H OTO G R A P H BY DAV I D L AW R E N C E / S T U D I O D, S T Y L E D BY
G A B R I E L R I V E R A F O R R . J . B E N N E T T R E P R E S E N T S ( C O AT )

ENDI IS FUR; FUR IS FENDI. KARL LAGERFELDS DEFINING

G E TAWAY

In
Perfect
Harmony

OUT
O T&ABOUT
H OT A N D CO L D
Clockwise from top:
Fermented tofu souffl;
Qiwellness outdoor deck;
salmon gravlax; duck leg
confit la Peking.

Tagaytays Qiwellness Living

offers a balanced path to better
health. BY PIERRE A. CALASANZ

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F Q I W E L L N E S S L I V I N G A N D C R Y S TA L C R U I S E S

F YOUVE NEVER BEEN TO QIWELL-

ness Living in Tagaytay, prepare to be

pleasantly surprised. What looks to be a
simple one-story structure from the main
road is actually a multi-level complex with
a teahouse, guesthouse, and bathhouse, all
providing services that make this secret
gem a complete dining, health, and wellness
hub. And dont forget the view: the pictureperfect Taal lake and volcano in the distance
instantly put your mind at ease. In the crisp
and invigorating mountain air, leave your
big city worries behind.
For owners Ken Tuazon and Rita
Sanson, what sets Qiwellness apart is its
teahouse, where better health is achieved
through the ancient Chinese concept
of balancing our yin and yang energies.

Qiwellness name itself is taken from chi,

the Chinese word for the flow of energy.
Tuazon says, In China, they dont believe in
things like, Oh, this is high in cholesterol,
we shouldnt eat this, like in the Western
world. The Chinese believe in yin and
yang, and the concept of balance. Lets say
Im a yin person, which is a cold person,
I shouldnt eat too much of the yin foods,
which will create an imbalance. Chinese
medicine will counter this by giving you
more yang ingredients for your food.
Whether you believe this or not, this has
been in place for thousands of years.
To best illustrate the balanced dining
concept, Qiwellness offers a nine-course
Yin Yang menu that changes based on the
four seasons. Smaller sets of six and eight
courses are also available, as well as an a la
carte option. Tasked to come up with the
inventive menu is chef Jeffrey Ramirez, who
studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Sydney before
working with renowned Australian chef
Matt Kemp. Shortly after coming back to
Manila, the opportunity to lead Qiwellness
kitchen arose, which he immediately
swooped up. Ive always considered

PORT OF
CALL

Tagaytay my place of comfort, so I was

excited to work here. That, and I have free
rein in the kitchen. Here, I can develop my
own menu, my own style of cuisine.
We enjoyed the Spring menu during our
visit, which showcased Ramirez inventive
East-meets-West cuisine. With dishes such
as the fermented tofu souffl, duck leg
confit a la Peking, and salman gravlax
with squid ink and citrus pearls, he deftly
marries Western techniques with Orientinspired flavors and vice versa, but always
taking into consideration the ingredients
yin and yang properties.
While the set courses and a long list
of specialty teas are available for lunch,
Tuazon highly recommends dining
in early evening to best enjoy the
view. Come in the afternoon,
and relax with a cocktail while
the sun goes down. Its best to
take your time with the ninecourse meal. Aguinaldo Highway,
Barangay Maharlika East, Tagaytay,
Cavite; 0917.522.6969;
info@qiwellnessliving.ph; teahouse@
qiwellnessliving.ph; qiwellnessliving.ph.

IN 2017, CRYSTAL CRUISES ADDS THE PHILIPPINES TO ITS ITINERARY

ITINER
OF
redes and
luxury cruises. The Crystal Symphonywhich recently had a $15 million redesign
travels to destinations such as Antarctica, South America, and northern Europe
Europewill
be making a 12-day journey to Southeast Asia with stopovers in Brunei, Singapore,
Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. This world-class ship will dock in Boracay,
known for its white sand beaches, and Romblon, reputable for its marble culture.
The six-star luxury line transcends the traditional notions of cruising, boasting
expertly designed ships, customized destination immersion, and impeccable service
both at sea and on land. Its set to transit the Northwest Passage in North America
beginning 2016. On top of thoughtfully planned itineraries on land, its services at
sea include complimentary fine wine, dining at restaurants including one by chef
Nobu Matsuhisa, all-day room service, and penthouse butler staff. For bookings and
information, contact Adventure International Tours at 884.9427, 884.9438, 884.9403;
leisuresales@amextdg.com. MIKAELLA EVARISTO

T&C 39

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

OUT&ABOUT

MUST MEET

BRYAN
LIM
Benchs heir apparent talks
about the companys soonto-open Japanese food
concepts Maisen, Pablo
Cheesecake, and Marugame
Seimen, and why he is
fascinated with the idea of
the intangible.

By A L I C I A C O L B Y S Y Photograph by D I X P E R E Z

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 40

MUST MEET

HE WORD SCION DOESNT SEEM

fitting for a man like Bryan Lim,

although he very much is one by
definition. The attribute just seems too
stuffy, and stuffy he is definitely not. As
heir apparent to the Suyen Corporation,
the company that his parents, Nenita and
Virgilio Lim, started almost 30 years ago
together with his uncle, creative wunderkind
Ben Chan, Bryan and his sisters Christine
and Suyen are the natural successors to the
retail empire that Bench has built. With over
25 brands in their portfolio and a few more
in the pipeline, not only are they industry
leaders in fast-fashion and high-design,
they have also proven themselves to be key
harbingers of pop culture.
Upon entry to their offices in a new
building in Bonifacio Global City, its
obvious that despite the modern corporate
environs, minimal and bright, even in the
late afternoon, family is writ large at Suyen.
I am led up an elevator to the penthouse
level where the family holds court. As I
make my way through the halls, it is more
amusing than coincidental that the boyish
Bryan personally seems
to exude the same sense
of calm and control
that permeates his
surroundings. There is no
sign of frenzy that would
ordinarily be associated
with a corporation
that employs 7,000
individuals worldwide
and has large-scale operations in the
Philippines, China, and the Middle East.
Today, Bryan is dressed in his customary longsleeved button-down shirt, skinny pants, and
New Balance sneakers, and is, as always, soft
spoken and unassuming. Within minutes of
settling into his office, however, it is made
evident that he does not live in permanent
adolescence, as his daily garb would suggest.
Before we sit down, he excuses himself
several times to discuss pressing matters with
members of his management team and it is
clear from the way they address him that he
is very much the man in charge.
One of the many items on his agenda this
afternoon is a discussion about the uniforms
for the soon-to-open Maisen, a specialty
Tokyo franchise renowned for its tonkatsu
that the company is bringing to Manila later
this month. He presents a rolling rack of
chefs jackets, blouses, and skirts that seem to
have just undergone thorough examination.
You know, the Japanese are very meticulous,
he says. Everything must be perfect and
exact. Part of the reason we are here this

afternoon, in fact, is to discuss the companys

recent foray into the food business. Two
years ago, Suyen opened Paul Boulangerie,
the modern-day French patisserie and salon
de th, and late last year, it introduced a
second food concept to the market: St. Marc
Caf, a Japanese chain that specializes in
freshly baked breads, desserts, coffee, and a
signature pastry item, the chococro. Before
the year ends, it is set to open three more food
concepts from Japan: the aforementioned
Maisen, the notable Pablo cheesecake from
Osaka, and Marugame Seimen, a popular
self-service restaurant that will have an
extensive offering of udon and tempura at
sharp price points. While the investment
doesnt necessarily change Suyens focus from
fashion to food, the move does make them an
instant player in the countrys ever-growing
restaurant industry where, at maturity, Bryan
expects will become a sizeable venture that is
worth supporting with dedicated hierarchies
within the company.
My parents and Uncle Ben have always
been open to new ideas and are supportive
of new opportunities, he says. If we present

OUT&ABOUT
and gyoza) has certainly proven a successful
way to cut through the dining noise.
Like most sons from traditional ChineseFilipino families, Bryans first job was working
for the family business. He spent the first few
years in product development for Benchs
undergarments learning the ropes and trying
to understand the company culture. Even
though you have a family culture that you are
familiar with, there are differences, and you
only notice them when you begin to work
together. There are unwritten rules and you
dont know what they are, he says laughing.
Through his stories he reveals just how close
they all are, and till now, the family still
chooses to always have lunch together when
everyone is around. My mom and uncle Ben
are very close and we grew up with him. We
used to live together in a compound in Taguig
and when he moved to Makati we were
always at his house. Having lunch together
is very important for us. Its a time where we
can discuss things or just catch up with one
another.
With all the dynamic and global
businesses that Suyen manages, Bryan shares
that the one that he is
most fascinated by is the
salon business they started
with Alex Carbonell in
the mid 2000s. Really?
I ask, almost disappointed
that he doesnt share
my enthusiasm for
all of the high-design
pieces they host at
Studio Dimensione. Dont get me wrong,
I am really a fan of the designers and what
they do, he explains. But a lot of it is still
aspirational to me. What I am amazed at
is how a woman can sit in a chair and pay
5,000 to 10,000 pesos just to feel good. Its
something that is not tangible yet generates a
large amount of business based on someone
coming out looking and feeling better about
themselves. That idea really interests me.
As we attempt to timeline the growth of
the company we see that its rise has been a
series of small, slow developments, instead of
a single year with one gigantic leap. You have
been there through that growth, I point out
in an attempt to highlight his role in Suyens
success. But the self-deprecating Bryan still
seems reluctant to accept the compliment.
His eyes are drawn once again to the rolling
rack of chefs garb, and as if thinking out loud,
he says, My parents and uncle imagined a
shirt shop when they first opened. Its our
challenge to make sure we keep finding new
ideas to keep ourselves, and everything they
worked so hard for, relevant.

A LOT OF IT IS STILL ASPIRATIONAL TO ME. WHAT I AM

AMAZED AT IS HOW A WOMAN CAN SIT IN A CHAIR AND
PAY 5,000 TO 10,000 PESOS JUST TO FEEL GOOD.
something and they like it, they will never
ask, can you do it? They assume that when
you ask, you are confident you can make
it work. Under his direction as the vice
president for business development, Bryan is
tasked to initiate discussions once a potential
partner has been identified, negotiate
contracts, and then see the idea through to
store opening. With the new food group
alone, he definitely has his hands full. They
encourage us to delegate and dispense advice
as needed, but they want us to find our own
vision and solution to make the business
model work. When asked whether there
is a particular reason that all their recent
concepts have origins in Japan, he replies
that it is merely coincidental. The Japanese,
he says, have been very aggressive in regional
and international expansion, and to an
observer keeping tabs, that theory would
hold true given the number Japanese dining
establishments that have opened in Manila
over the past few years. The success of the
one-idea restaurant that specializes on a single
dish (think ramen, tonkatsu, curry, tempura,

T&C 41

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

ADVERTISING | PROMOTIONS | EVENTS

QUINTESSENTIALLY
BRITISH
British fragrance house Jo Malone London will be
launching their sophisticated and exquisite scents
in Greenbelt 5 this October. Catch a whiff of their
herbal classic Lime Basil & Mandarin or their
oral Blackberry & Bay, fragrances suffused with
charm, whimsy, and irresistible allure. Blended
in England from high quality ingredients, each
fragrance is elegant in its simplicity, and can either
be worn alone or combined with another to create
the scent that is distinctly you.
Jo Malone London is located at Greenbelt 5,
Makati City.

LUMINOUS SKIN
Discover brighter, more radiant, and more
youthful skin with Obagi Blue Peel, an in-clinic
skin peel treatment by House of Obagi that
improves skin problems and is excellent for skin
tightening. Designed to treat blemish-prone skin,
wrinkles, pigmentation problems, sun damage,
or generally poor skin quality, the Obagi Blue
Peel exfoliates layers of dead skin cells and
stimulates cell renewal, allowing the skins own
clarity to shine through. A potent peel that delivers
consistent results, it is suitable for all skin types on
facial and non-facial skin.
House of Obagi is located at Greenbelt 5

FRESH FROM THE OVEN

SWEET BEGINNINGS

The Wolf Convection Steam Ovens digital

technology adjusts the details of cooking to allow
for outstanding resultsroasts, dinner rolls,
pastries, and casseroles come out moist, avorful,
or delightfully crusty. Not only can you enjoy your
meals faster, as the Wolf Convection Steam Oven
decreases cooking time of most recipes by almost
25 percent, but you can also bake bread, roast
turkey, and even bring leftovers back to steamy life,
while preserving the nutrients in the food. Offered
in widths of 24 and 30, the Convection Steam
Oven is available in six different models that
complement the New Generation Wolf products.
Wolf is exclusively distributed by Focus Global Inc.
Visit their showroom at located at The Residences
at Greenbelt, Esperanza Street, Makati.

Whipping up a storm at The Manila Hotel is new

executive pastry chef Jerome Benda, who brings
his passion for desserts to the hotels menu. Once
head pastry cook to the King of Morocco, chef
Benda demonstrates world-class techniques in
preparing his signature French macarons, baked
cheesecakes, and his own spin on the mille-feuille,
decadent custard cream slices topped with fondant
glaze. These luscious pastries, custom-made
cakes, and sweet indulgences are available daily at
Caf Ilang-Ilangs dessert buffet station.
www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

SUMMER
SOPHISTICATION

REAPING THE REWARDS

French-Filipino luxury brand Jewelmer Joaillerie

showcases lustrous, awlessly cultured South Sea
pearls with Bollicine, a hallmark collection of ne
jewelry that glows with all the promise of summer.
Set with diamonds in 18-karat gold, each piece in
the Bollicine collection has a sense of lightness
and wonder that comes with the golden South Sea
Pearl. Taking its name after the Italian word for
bubbles, Bollicine reects rainbows of light with
its perfect spheres, making it a delight to wear in
the summer.
Jewelmer Joailleries Bollicine collection is
available at select Jewelmer boutiques nationwide.

Released by American Express in partnership

with BDO, the American Express CashBack
Credit Card provides outright cash rebates with
no minimum spend and no limit on the amount
of rebates that cardmembers can earn. For the
price-conscious consumer, this is the ideal card
to pay for everyday expenses as well as big ticket
items. Unlike similar products in the market,
cardmembers cashback rewards are automatically
credited to their accounts regardless of purchase
value. American Express CashBack credit
cardmembers will earn 1 percent cashback on all
local purchases and 2 percent cashback on every
overseas purchase.
For more information on the American Express
CashBack Credit Card, call the 24-hour BDO
Customer Contact Center at 631.8000 / 1.800.10.
631.8000.

STYLE SPY
August 2015

Jewels, Accessories, and Things to Wear

AN

Outline IN

BLACKS &
WHITES
ACHROMATIC
DRESSING TAKES
A DARK TURN.

T H E PA L E T T E
This is definitely
evidence in the
case for juxtaposing
black against white.
BALENCIAGA TOP AND
EARRINGS (PRICES
UPON REQUEST),
UNIVERS, ONE
ROCKWELL, 553.6811

THE EDGE
All white can seem
a bit expected.
Mismatched black
cuffs are the
surprise ending.

T H E D E TA I L S
How do you keep
white from being
formless, like
putty? Structured
accessories.

BALENCIAGA
SKIRT, TIGHTS, AND
SHOES (PRICES UPON
REQUEST).

BALENCIAGA
POUCHETTE (PRICE

P H OTO G R A P H CO U RT E SY O F BA L E N C I AG A

UPON REQUEST).

T&C 43

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

STYLE SPY

SHOPPING

BOTTEGA
VENETA
PRE-FALL
2015,
GREENBELT 4,
757.6293

JIMMY CHOO
BAG, GREENBELT 4,
728.2160

T&Cs playlist of this seasons

greatest two-tone hits.

BULGARI
BRACELET,
GREENBELT 4,
728.5061

ALEXANDER
MCQUEEN
WEDGE HEELS,
SHANGRI
SHANGRI-LA
PLAZA
EAST WING

COOL GIRL WITH

TRUST FUND

SAINT LAURENT
ESPADRILLES,
E
,
-LA
SSHANGRI-LA
PLAZA EAST WING,,
P
956.3435
95
5

DAMIANI
EARRINGS,
ARRINGS, RUSTANS
SILVER VAULT
MAKATI, 813.3739

REISS
SKIRT, RUSTANS
MAKATI, 813.3739

GIVENCHY
SCARF, SHANGRILA PLAZA EAST
WING, 956.3430

GIVENCHY
PRE-FALL
2015,
SHANGRILA PLAZA
EAST WING,
956.3430
PHILIP STEIN
WATCH, 6750 AYALA
AVENUE, 818.6356

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 44

MICHAEL
KORS
SUMMER 2015,
POWER PLANT
MALL

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO
S
AGAMO
HEELS,, G
GREENBELT
H
ELT 4,
757.6270
75

P H OTO G R A P H S CO U RT E SY O F STO R E S S P EC I A L I STS

I N C . , LU C E R N E , LO U I S V U I T TO N , A N D B U LG A R I

UNDERSTATED
ONE-PERCENTER

PARK AVENUE
BOHEMIAN

H E R I TA G E

NEW
OBSESSION

brand-new flagship store on Paris Champs-lyses

late last year, Longchamp has opened standalone
stores in key cities like Barcelona, Dubai, Rome, and,
most recently, Manila.
Founded by Jean Cassegrain in 1948, the French fashion
house is still fully owned by the Cassegrain family
today. Jeans son, Philippe, leads the pack, and his
three children, Olivier, Sophie, and Jean are all
involved in running the billion-dollar brand. After
more than 65 years, one might think that the
Cassegrains insistence on keeping things in the
family would result in the brands irrelevance, but
theyve impressively managed to evade just that.
Credit the brands popularity to the nowiconic Le Pliage, the choice tote of an upmarket
clientele who favor the bags simplicity and
practicality. Its nylon model, which comes in
nearly every color imaginable, reportedly sells
in the millions each year, and has become so
distinctly prolific that most tend to forget
Longchamps roots. Before becoming a
fashion house, Longchamp was a leather goods
manufacturer, says Franois-Xavier Severin,
Longchamp general manager for Asia Pacific,
who was in Manila to grace the grand opening
of the Longchamp boutique in Greenbelt 5. The
Philippines knows very much about the Le Pliage
Nylon, but not about the rest.
Thats bound to change soon as Longchamp rolls out
its latest collection. Fresh from punchy collaborations
with artist Sarah Morris and designers Jeremy Scott
and Mary Katrantzou, the brands fall/winter showcase
features refined editions of a familiar silhouette. The
leather Le Pliage Hritage is an elegant, sedate take on the
Le Pliage Nylon, while the Le Pliage Hritage Luxe Mini,
rendered in options of calfskin, lambskin, and sheepskin,
and embellished with cowhide, reacquaints its owner
with Longchamps tradition of excellent craftsmanship.
Greenbelt 5, 728.8766.

Theres more to Longchamp than its

i iconic Le
Pliage Nylon handbags. BY MANICA C. TIGLAOO
N E X T W AV E
Clockwise from top: An
artisan crafts a Le Pliage
leather bag; the Cassegrain
family: Michle and Philippe
with children Olivier, Sophie,
and Jean; the Le Pliage
Hritage mini and sling
bags in Luxe Gold and Luxe
Poudre versions; a sketch
of the Le Pliage bag; the
Longchamp flagship store on
the Champs-lyses.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

N THE MONTHS AFTER INAUGURATING ITS

T&C 46

P H OTO G R A P H S CO U RT E SY O F STO R E S S P EC I A L I STS I N C.

STYLE SPY

STY SPY
STYLE
S Y

STYLE PROFILE

JESSICA
TAN-GAN
Super shades, my Me&Ro earrings, and
Flower Bomb perfume by Victor and Rolf.
First Big Splurge Property. I Cant Live
Without My family and dogs! Prized
Possessions My favorite Me&Ro earrings
that my mom gave me in high school. I feel
incomplete when I dont wear them. One
side went missing a few years ago so my
cousin Ann, whom I consider my older
sister, bought me a replacement pair.
Me&Ro didnt make the exact same style as
my original pair so I now wear one side
from each pair. Wearing them makes me
feel like my mom and Ann are always with
me. Current Fashion Wish List Burberry
Prorsums spring/summer 2015 collection.

TO P F O R M
Clockwise: Jessica wears a Tan-Gan sheer vest, her
own BCBG belt, and Melissa shoes; her day to night
essentials: Arnel Papa necklace, earrings of her own
design, and a Tan-Gan top and skirt.

Regular Activities I work out at home at 6

a.m. either by myself or with a trainer,

stretch, then head to the office or to our
shop at Greenbelt 5. Earliest Fashion
Memory Ive been exposed to fashion since I
was born so it is second nature to me. I spent
most of my childhood tagging along with
my mom Lulu Tan-Gan to work. She
took me to the office and factory, on
buying and sourcing trips, and to trade
fairs. We shopped together and went to
events and shows. Being exposed to so
much fashion all my life gave me a
realistic and practical view on fashion. In
some way, being exposed to it so much
has made me less materialistic and less of
a fashionista than most would think.
Describe Your Style Laid-back with a touch
of color. Favorite Brands COS, Uniqlo for
basics, and Tan-Gan, of course. J Brand for

jeans, Balenciaga, and Alexander Wang.

Toms and Melissa for shoes. Super for
shades. Favorite Shops COS, YOUR in
Antwerp, and Joyce and Lane Crawford
in Hong Kong. Fashion Philosophy
Dress for yourself. Fashion has to be
you. Fashion Essentials White and
black jeans, nude sandals, sunglasses.
Style Icons My mom dresses for herself
herse f
and has an immense respect and love for
f
fashion. She really treasures each and every
piece she has. She only buys something iff
she really loves it. Usually theyre classic
class
pieces so they never go out of fashion.
fashion
Shes a creative dresser and can mix
and match something old with
something new. Shera Tiu is the
epitome of effortless cool. And
Kai Lim always looks so feminine
and polished. Signature Accessories

Produced by C A R O L E C U A S AY-TA G L E Photograph by K E N J I O N G L A O of AT E A S T | J E D R O O T

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 48

MAKEUP BY BYRON VELASQUEZ FOR M.A.C.

HAIR BY BEA MISA FOR KEIHLS STYLIST SERIES

The chief financial officer of

the Tan-Gan fashion label
embraces power dressing.

One Knight
of Fashion

In Paul Smiths A/W 2015 menswear collection,

the British designers cheeky and fun approach
to fashion is laid bare. BY PIERRE A. CALASANZ

Clockwise from left:

Bauhaus digital checked
jacket and slim Bauhaus
trousers; three-button
camel jacket and wool
wide trousers; a striped
silk scarf; leather brogues
with etched detail.

years ago highlighted an interesting fun fact in the British designers

long list of achievements. According to the daily, Smiths popularity
was cemented in the 1980s, when he was credited with single-handedly
reviving boxer shorts as mens underwear of choice. How exactly
that was determined is anyones guess. Perhaps a more telling form of
recognition for his services to the fashion industry is the knighthood he
received from Queen Elizabeth in 2000; Sir Paul does have a nice ring to it.
Earlier this year, under the beautiful dome of the Bourse du Commerce
in Paris, Smith unveiled his A/W 2015 collection for men. Guests in
attendance quickly made sense of the puzzling triangle-shaped invitations
received before the launch, as the shape figured prominently in the
show, from the triangular runway path to the geometric patterns on
shirts, sweaters, and accessories.
Smith certainly looked back on his early days in the British fashion
scene, as the collection had a definite late 1960s and early 70s vibe.
As the ska classic 54-46 Was My Number by Toots and the Maytals
blared overhead, models took to the floor in a bevy of contrasting
fashion styles. Some were decked in mod-era glam with stick- thin
trousers and fitted jackets but for the most part, the more casual feel
of 70s permeated. While the pants may be quite loose and ride high on
the waist, thankfully Smith isnt thinking of bringing back flared or
bell-bottom trouserswhat a waste of good fabric that decade was. The
look, executed in deep, dark hues with some earth tones, is relaxed and
unstructured, accented with similarly loose, wide-shouldered jackets and
chunky, thick-soled shoes.
With a naughty look in his eye, Smith triumphantly took to the
runway as the show ended, joining his models for a sprightly lap of
honor, flashing V-signs with both hands before his final bow. Revisiting
the past but never falling into the trap of schmaltzy nostalgia, Smiths
continued relevance in todays fashion world should never be put in
doubt. Greenbelt 5, 729.9898.

On a High Note
THERE WAS A REASON PLACIDO DOMINGO AND JOSE
JO E
climactic notes
Carreras let Luciano Pavarotti handle many of the climacti
was the
during their performances as the Three Tenors: he simply w
thanks to his
best. Credited with bringing opera to a wider audience tha
1990 World
version of Nessun dorma becoming synonymous with 19
philanthropist,
Cup, the Italian opera superstar was also a great philanthr
p
millions
holding several Pavarotti & Friends concerts to raise mil
s master
for charity. Paying homage to the legend, Montblancs
mas
Edition 98,,
craftsmen have created the Luciano Pavarotti Limited Edit
888, and 4810 pens. The 4810s black lacquered barrel aand white
attire of a
lacquer cap bring to mind the tenors signature concert att
ever-present
black tuxedo and white shirt (not to mention his ever-pres

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

white handkerchief, draped loosely around a

finger in one hand). The 888 is inspired
by his favorite opera, Puccinis Turandot.
Symbolizing China, where the opera is
set, is a black and white lacquer dragon
with red garnet eyes on the cap. The
98 model represents the year Pavarotti
was presented with the Grammy Legend
Award. Here, his delicately engraved
portrait adorns the solid gold nib
of this exquisite writing instrument.
Rustans Makati and Shangri-La Plaza;
montblanc.com.

T&C 50

TENOR
TRIBUTE
The limited
edition 4810
fountain pen.

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F S U Y E N C O R P O R AT I O N ( PA U L S M I T H )
A N D R U S TA N C O M M E R C I A L C O R P O R AT I O N ( M O N T B L A N C )

PROFILE ON PAUL SMITH APPEARING IN THE TELEGRAPH A FEW

S
STYLE
S Y
SPY

BIJOUX NEWS

PARISS
PA
D
DIARIES
A S
The elusive lan of the Parisian
w
woman is translated into
jjewelry by Cartier.
B CLIFFORD OLANDAY
BY
Y

8:30 A.M.
SHE TAKES HER TIME
Never one to rush out the door, the
Parisienne sits down, sips her caf,
reads the paper, andyeseats
anything she wants. On her are
pieces that evoke the pastel
sweets of the ptisserie, from
rings with sorbets of chrysoprase,
black jade, and chalcedony set
atop cornets of gadrooned gold
to long necklaces swirling like
Chantilly cream with cultured
pearls, spinels, and morganite.
2:15 P.M.
SHE GOES ON A STROLL
It is a beautiful day. Across
the Pont des Arts, she
wears a necklace with
padlock charms, amethysts,
aquamarines, tourmalines,
and spinels. Along the Seine,
she mirrors the rivers rippling
water with bracelets of black
lacquer and diamonds. Further down
the bank, among the arches and

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

domes of latticed gold, she chooses

monumental rings and bracelets
whose inner sides are lacquered in
Cartier reda sophisticated secret.
10:45 P.M.
SHE GLITTERS AS BRIGHT
AS THE CITY OF LIGHTS
Its all about movement. Extravagant
but certainly modern pieces are
threaded together with links of gold
beads and diamonds. They rustle
with every step and every twirl.
Their stones glimmer like
pearlescent moonlight. Their
colors, like the Parisian
parties she attends, are
vibrant in yellow and pink
sapphires, fiery opals,
red spinels, emeralds,
tsavorites, diamonds,
and lapis lazuli. Oh,
what a wonderful life!
Greenbelt 4; Rustans
Makati; Shangri-La
Plaza; Resorts
World Manila.

T&C 52

P H OTO G R A P H S CO U RT E SY O F CA RT I E R

INSPIRED
PA I R I N G
Piecess from Cartierss
Paris Nouvelle
u
collection;; socialite
Bianca Brandolini
B
o
dAdda
ass the face of
d
the
t line..

ATHERINE DENEUVE. LOU DOILLON.

Caroline de Maigret. The expression je
ne sais quoi, which translates to I do not
know what, is exactly how you feel when trying
to pin down that ineffable quality that makes la
Parisienne, well, so very Parisienne.
To solve the riddle of the woman who inhabits the City
of Lights, Cartier uses the visual language of gold and
gemstones. In its Paris Nouvelle collection, rings, bracelets,
and necklaces with highly personal character express her
identity. The pieces are, of course, colored by the spirit of
the vibrant city she lives in, from its fashionable haunts to its
sublime confectioneries to its invigorating nights. They also
reflect a woman who has an insiders knowledge of Paris, as
well as a woman who knows how to appear chic and sensual
in a nonchalant way.

WAT C H

SPACE-TIME
Continuum

STYLE SPY

CLEAN LINES
The Vacheron
Constantin
Harmony UltraThin Grande
Complication
chronograph.

Meteorite dials and other solar systeminspired details bring the future closer to
home. BY STEPHEN WATSON

HERE ARE SEVERAL THINGS THE

P H OTO G R A P H BY M I K E K E M P/ I N P I C T U R E S/ CO R B I S
( D E LO R E A N ) ; CO U RT E SY O F LU C E R N E

movie Back to the Future II, set in

a then-distant 2015, got wrong.
We dont regularly use flying cars
or hoverboards, and robots dont
however, still
pump our gas. We are, howeve
time
trying to break barriers of tim
and space. In February Tesla
founder Elon Musk launched
his deep space observatory
rocket after receiving a $1
billion investment from
Google. And at recent
international watch fairs
we spotted multiple
meteorite dials, which gave
classic timepieces a certain
far-out appeal. The moon
surface-like material was
also noted on serving plates
by Bernardaud. We couldnt
help but hear the words of Doc
after Marty McFly questioned him
DeLorean: The
about the souped-up DeLorean
build a
way I see it, if youre gonna bu
not do
time machine into a car, why n
it with some style?

MOON
LANDINGS
The time-traveling
DeLorean in the
film Back to the
Future II; Marina
Abramovic for
Bernardaud plates
(price upon request),
to order at Rustans
Makati, 813.3729;
bernardaud.com

H U B LOT
Classic Fusion
Aeromoon (price
upon request),
Lucerne,
Shangri-La Plaza,
634.3161

OMEGA
Speedmaster
(price upon
request),
Greenbelt 5,
728.0436

J A EG E RL E C O U LT R E
Master Calendar
(price upon request),
Greenbelt 5, 728.0094

T&C 53

TO INFINITY

Limited edition chronographs from

Vacheron Constantin mark over two
centuries of watchmaking.
HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE TWO
centuries and 60 years of working with
something as eternal as time? If you are the
legendary watchmaker Vacheron Constantin,
you present a new series that celebrates your
history as well as looks forward to the future.
The Harmony Collection focuses on
the chronograph, a complication that has
enjoyed an important place among Vacheron
Constantins creations since 1917. Specifically, it
explores the monopusher chronograph, which is
prized among connoisseurs because its assembly
requires patience, dexterity, and experience. The
movements are housed in an evolved cushion
shape, which is another highlight. The innovative
combination of a curved case, a square bezel,
and a round watch glass is inspired by the design
of one Vacheron Constantins first wristwatch
chronographs from 1928.
The collections seven limited edition
models are, of course, powered by in-house
movements. Choose from the worlds thinnest
split-second chronograph (at just 5.20 mm
thick), a tourbillon chronograph, a pulsimeter
chronograph, a double-pusher ladies
chronograph, or any of three new dual-time
watches. Lucerne, Glorietta 4, 728.2828;
Lucerne, Shangri-La Plaza, 634.3161.
CLIFFORD OLANDAY

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

STYLE SPY

DESIGN

Danish Design
The very on-trend furniture
collection lands in Manila,
offering a clean and classic
Scandinavian look, sustainable
design, and high quality.
BY JENNIFER BAUM LAGDAMEO

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

seat. The popular Copenhagen chair was

originally designed for the University of
Copenhagen, and is part of a collaboration
between Hay and the French design team
Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec. The classic
streamlined piece comes with a matching
desk, and is stackable, sturdy, and easy to
cleanall important design requirements
for university use.
Also of interest is Hays Mini Market
concept. Originally launched as a pop-up
at Selfridges during the London Design
Festival in September 2014, this successful
supermarket for home accessories has
been rolled out in Copenhagen, Milan,
Paris, Tokyo, and Shanghai. In addition to
in-house products such as the colorful glass
containers Bits & Bobs, the Mini Market
incorporates trendy productsfun
global finds selected by designers
from their Copenhagen head
office that complement the
Hay collection. Shelves are
lined with home accessories,

including colorful glassware from the

Dutch line Scholten & Baijings, Wooden
Wonderland, stackable wooden decorative
blocks by Danish design duo Lee Storm, the
round functional Gym Hook by Swedish
designer Staffan Holm, and the now iconic
Kaleido tray set in powder finish designed
by Clara von Zweigbergk. Until a Mini
Market opens in Manila, Hay is offering
a selection of these chic home accessories
along with a full line of furniture
at the Casa Bella showroom.
Ground floor AIC Burgundy
Empire Tower, ADB
Avenue corner Garnet
Road, Ortigas Center,
Pasig; 470.6250.
G R E AT D A N E
Pieces from Hay and
Wrong for Hay, a
collaboration with
British designer
Sebastian Wrong.
Center: Hays Mini
Market in Milan.

T&C 54

P H OTO G R A P H S CO U RT E SY O F CASA B E L L A

HILE DOING RESEARCH ON

affordable designer furniture lines to
bring into Manila, Casa Bella owner
Joseph Tay came across an article that
stated, Copenhagen is the new Milan. He
and his wife Stephanie were always drawn
to Scandinavian design, and when they
discovered a young brand called Hay from
Denmark, they realized that they were onto
something exciting. Founded in 2002 by
Mette and Rolf Hay, the collection grew out
of the Hays desire to create an affordable
line inspired by the Danish design classics
of the 1950s and 60s. Its expansion in
Asia began three years ago in China, when
they set up a warehouse and distribution
center in Shanghai. Since then, its business
in Asia has focused mainly on providing
customizable furnishings for restaurants,
offices, and educational centers, as well as
home furnishings for the young and stylish.
Chairs have always been an important
part of the design-driven companys
core business, and many of their models
can be customized. The bestselling
and appropriately named About a
Chair is offered in various finishes and
configurations. The body can be ordered
in leather, fabric upholstery, or plastic
polyurethane finish and the legs can be
changed from wood to powdercoated
steel or stainless steel chrome, thus
dramatically altering the look of the
chair. About a Chair can also be
ordered with or without armrests.
With these basic bespoke
finishes, a sophisticated dining
room chair can be transformed
into a slick contemporary office

TO P T R E AT M E N T S

FACE IT
I

TS NEVER EASY TO CHOOSE WHICH

anti-aging procedure to try especially

when practically every non-invasive
treatment promises the same results:
plumper, younger, smoother, spot-free
skin. The key is to understand how these
results are delivered through the various
machines and specific techniques of
Manilas top doctors and clinics. In the
hope of giving you a crash course on the
basics of laser and non-laser treatments,

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

The best anti-aging procedure is determined by

the devices quality, your doctors expertise, and,
most importantly, your needs and skin type.
BY NICOLE LIMOS

we break down some of the most

effective, innovative, and popular antiaging procedures available in the city
according to category, promised results,
and the skin concerns they tackle.
First, know that laser treatments
have two kinds: ablative lasers, which
generally scorch thin layers of the skin
to vaporize them, and non-ablative
(non-wounding) lasers, which target
the underlying skin to stimulate

T&C 56

collagen and tightening. Ablative

lasers may treat deep wrinkles, remove
warts, moles, acne scars, and other
skin pigmentations with dramatic
results as they remove the top layer
and trigger the resurfacing of new
skin. They are usually more painful,
but not necessarily more intense.
More popular these days, being more
tolerable but requiring more sessions,
are non-ablative lasers such as Pulsed-

P H OTO G R A P H BY J O H N L A M B/ G E T T Y I M AG E S. O P P OS I T E: P H OTO G R A P H S
COURTESY OF IMAGE SOURCE/GETTY IMAGES AND THE SKIN INC.

LOOKING GLASS

TO P T R E AT M E N T S
Dye Laser or PDL (for spider veins,
rosacea, broken capillaries), Nd:Yag (for
hair and tattoo removal, pigmentation,
skin rejuvenation), and Alexandrite
(for removal of finer hair, leg veins,
and tattoos as well). We hear the words
fractional laser all the time, which
is actually not a kind of laser, rather
a means of delivering the beams. As
the name implies, it emits a laser beam
that targets a fraction of the skin at a
timelike editing a photograph pixel
by pixel. Both ablative and non-ablative
lasers can be fractionated.
Non-laser treatments, on the other
hand, use light. Theres the well-known
Intense Pulse Light (IPL) for hair
removal, correcting skin discoloration,
and tightening; radiofrequency (RF)
for fat reduction, plumping, and
tightening; infrared that goes deeper
for stimulating collagen and addressing
sagging skin without risk of fat loss;
and ultrasound for skin elasticity
and increasing collagen also without
touching fat cells.
Why do machine brands matter
when they all emit the same kind of
laser or light? Because they differ in
engineering, which affects pain level,

LOOKING GLASS

downtime, and frequency of treatment;

they differ in levels of energy, laser spot
size, and pulse width, which matter in
the levels of damage it can do to your
skin; and most importantly, they differ
in wavelengths, which matters in what
youre treating and desired results.
Typically, only physicians are able to
use the most aggressive and effective
devices and perform these treatments;
choosing to have yours done by the
right and most experienced doctors
is still top priority. For instance, the
most expensive non-ablative lasers that
require just once-a-year procedures
like Thermage and Ulthera both yield
dramatic collagen production and
long-term results. But if you know
that Thermage, which makes use of
RF, contracts fat and can permanently
remove fat cells while plumping the
skin, and Ulthera, which employs
ultrasound imaging technology,
contours the face without removing fat,
youd be able to discuss options with
your board certified dermatologist on
whether or not you want or need to
keep your facial fat. At the end of the
day, the best laser will depend on your
goals and skin needs.

HOLLYWOOD LIFT

BEST FOR: Sagging skin. TECHNOLOGY: LED light and electric microcurrents. WHAT IT IS: Developed by the U.K.-based
CACI International, the device offers skin rejuvenation with facial muscle toning and claims to work as a nonsurgical facelift. WHATS SPECIAL: It uses the Wrinkle Comb which releases specific wavelengths of red or blue LED
light and high frequency electrical stimulation to activate the bodys sodium potassium pump. This encourages
cell exchange, the release of sodium ions and collagen proteins, to plump out deep lines and wrinkles and
trigger tissue repair and healing. Its a needle-free alternative to collagen injections and other dermal fillers,
says Dr. Cecilia Ramos-Bernad. The ultrasonic peeling hand piece, on the other hand, emits 27,000 vibrations
per second, which causes skin impurities to surface and dislodges dead skin cells for cleansing and exfoliating.
Ultrasonic skin peeling provides a far gentler and less aggressive method of skin exfoliation than traditional
microdermabrasion, explains Bernad, quoting CACIs research. Theres also the Hydratone roller that also
delivers microcurrents that activate
the silicone gel mask applied over
the face for effective hydration, and
the star of the treatment, the Micro
Probes hand piece for microcurrent
therapy for a noticeable lifted face.
Microcurrent stimulation does not
contract muscles, instead it works by
a process called muscle re-education
to tone and lift all 32 facial muscles,
says Bernad. HOW IT FEELS: The entire
procedure is bliss, which is a good
thing, as it runs for almost two
hours. If not for all the gizmos used,
we could easily forget were at a
dermatologists clinic, as it does feel
like a spa treatment. FREQUENCY: Once
a month. DR. CRB, 1608 The Trade
& Financial Tower, 32nd Street corner
7th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City;
955.2375.

T&C 57

SPECTRA XT

BEST FOR: Skin pigmentation. TECHNOLOGY:

Q Switched Nd:Yag laser. WHAT IT IS:
It tackles deep pigmentation
problems like dermal
melasma and hori
nevus, which are
very common
in Asian skin.
Most pigmentation
problems are mixed
in nature (epidermal
and dermal). We
have had great
success with superficial
pigmentation with the
Palomar Starlux MaxG,
but this IPL platform
can only go so far and
we are usually left with
the deep pigmentation,
shares Dr. Windie Hayano. This
is why we now have the Spectra, which
tackles all. WHATS SPECIAL: It can remove
both superficial and deep pigmentation
depending on the setting. It has four
wavelengths, which means doctors can
treat an array of problems, and the
platform makes it safe to treat darker
skin types. This is a very important
point because the Asian skin type is
very diverse and treating darker skin is
very challenging as it is more prone to
burning, scarring, and dyschromias,
adds Hayano. Its wavelength can even
be adjusted to remove tattoos without
scarring or wounding. HOW IT FEELS: Almost
a pain-free procedure. You only feel the
warmth everytime the laser hits an area
of the face. Treatments are quick (15 to
20 minutes) and targeted, depending on
your condition. FREQUENCY: Once to twice
a month. The Skin Inc. Dermatology and
Laser Center, 304 Tritan Plaza Building,
San Gregorio Street, Paseo de Magallanes,
Magallanes Village, Makati.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

LOOKING GLASS

TO P T R E AT M E N T S

PICOSURE

BEST FOR: Skin discoloration, freckles, sun spots, tattoo removal, and
rejuvenation. TECHNOLOGY: Picosecond laser. WHAT IT IS: The first of its
kind to use bursts of energy or pressure to tackle aging concerns and
pigmentation. WHATS SPECIAL: As the name implies, it offers picosecond
laser treatments, which means that with its smaller pulse width,
quicker procedures and better results are achieved. The pulse width
determines the time the laser becomes active on the skin with every
pass of the devices head, and this is important because the longer
the laser hits the skin, the more damage it can cause to surrounding
areas. This one hangs on for just a picosecond (one-trillionth
of a second), which is more than 100 times faster than all other
nanosecond technology lasers. The great thing about Picosure is its
use of pressure waves or bursts of energy on discolorations. Instead
of using heat energy to break the tattoo or skin pigments like most
laser machines, this one shatters pigments by punching them, and
they become like dust that your body will naturally get rid of, says
Dr. Vicki Belo. Only ultra-short pulse durations can trigger this
photomechanical effect, which means the light causes particles to
change shape or disintegrate. HOW IT FEELS: Its a lot more tolerable
than the Nd:Yag lasers we have tried before. Similarly, every strike
of its beam feels like having a warm rubber band flicked over the
face, but unlike the beams of nanosecond lasers that cause pain to
linger even after the laser has been emitted, the pain experienced in
Picosure only last as long as each passwhich is a picosecond. Belo
Medical Clinic, The Residences at Greenbelt.

BEFORE

AFTER
BEFORE

REFIRME

BEST FOR: Tackling eye bags and loose skin on the face and neck.
TECHNOLOGY: Radiofrequency and Electro-optical Synergy (ELOS).
WHAT IT IS: A skin tightening treatment that also addresses
prominent pores and acne scars. WHATS SPECIAL: It uses the next
generation technology of ELOS, a safe and precise combination
of low-energy broad spectrum light and radiofrequency, explains
Dr. Shayla Valdez. It heats the deeper layer of the skin, warming
the tissues beneath and enabling the collagen and elastin to
contract. When this happens, the contraction results in more
rapid production of collagen and elastin, which are responsible
for an overall improvement in skin elasticity and tone. The
ELOS technology is considered by skin experts as color blind,
meaning the treatment is absolutely suitable and safe for all skin
types. It only treats the necessary areas of the skin and leaves the
surrounding healthy skin untouched. FREQUENCY: Five treatments
are ideal for best results, which may be done once every two to
four weeks. Marie France, 16/F RCBC Center, corner 25th and
26th Streets, Bonifacio Global City.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 58

P H OTO G R A P H S BY L A M BA DA/ G E T T Y I M AG E S A N D CO U RT E SY O F M A R I E
F R A N C E ( R E F I R M E ) . O P P O S I T E : P H O T O G R A P H S B Y C U LT U R A / L I A M
N O R R I S A N D C O U R T E S Y O F S V E N S O N , A R TA S , A N D T H E S K I N I N C .

AFTER

TO P T R E AT M E N T S

ICON

BEST FOR: Wrinkles and fine lines, pores.

TECHNOLOGY: Non-ablative erbium glass
laser. WHAT IT IS: A more powerful fractional
laser with a built-in skin color reader. This
extra device can determine the average
darkness of the skin prior to treatment and
can recommend treatment parameters for
the doctor to consider to make treatment
of darker skin types, which are more
prone to damage, safer. It can also track
improvement in skin color because it can
store patient information directly in the
machines built-in computer. WHATS SPECIAL:
Icon features special microlenses for high
speed non-ablative fractional resurfacing
with increased surface coverage, allowing
greater penetration into the skin and
faster treatments. This is made by Palomar,
known for its lasers with non-ablative
features, so most patients experience
minimal to zero downtime. RESULTS:
Smoother, plumper skin can be seen even
with one treatment
and for fine wrinkles
and pores, I still
think this is the best
facial rejuvenation
option, says
Hayano. The Skin
Inc. Dermatology and
Laser Center, 304
Tritan Plaza Building,
San Gregorio Street,
Paseo de Magallanes,
Magallanes Village,
Makati.

LOOKING GLASS

HAIR TO STAY
THE NEWEST SOLUTIONS TO FALLING
HAIR ARE NOW IN MANILA.

LASER: REVAGE

BEST FOR: Falling hair.

WHAT IS IT? A low-level laser therapy
that stops hair fall and stimulates
growth of new strands.
HOW DOES IT WORK? It uses a Rotational
Photo Therapy machine that
rotates around the head, emitting
equal amounts of visible red light
on every area of the scalp. It
induces microcirculation of blood,
which results in cellular metabolism
that repairs hair follicles. The laser

reaches deep into the roots and

brings life back to even inactive
hair follicles to grow new hair.
HOW DOES IT FEEL? Unlike facial lasers,
lase
this one doesnt emit heat. But
expect a tingling sensation once
the 20-minute treatment starts.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD IT BE DONE? Best
fou
results are seen after two to four
months of twice to thrice a week
sessions. Svenson, GT Tower,
Ayala Avenue corner H.V. Dela
Costa Street, Makati.

CONCENTRATE: STEMPLUS

BEST FOR: Thinning hair and dying

hair follicles.
WHAT IS IT? A solution thats infused
with stem cell activators applied
regularly on the scalp at the
doctors clinic.
HOW DOES IT WORK? It targets all the
stem cells in the hair follicles and
induces them to grow new hair.
It is similar to Stem Cell Therapy,
says Teresa Cruz, in-house
trichologist at Svenson. Specific
extracts from the adipose stem cell
containing concentrated growth
factors that have the ability of
promoting differentiation of skin
cells are infused into the scalp.

TRANSPLANT: ARTAS

BEST FOR: Severe balding and scalp

reconstruction.
WHAT IS IT? Artas at the Aivee
Institute is a physician-controlled
robotic hair transplant system,
the first in the Philippines. The
minimally invasive hair restoration
procedure delivers natural results
without a linear scar for another
chance at fuller hair.
WHATS NEW? That robotic arm.
Instead of manually harvesting
hair follicles, Artas makes use
of precision robotics coupled
with digital imaging, providing
a higher level of control and
accuracy. The robo-hand
updates target coordinates
every 20 milliseconds to harvest
hair follicles with micron-level

T&C 59

HOW DOES IT FEEL? The 50-minute

procedure starts with a head
massage followed by scalp
cleansing. The StemPlus
solution is applied liberally
on all areas afterward. A
derma-roller is used to stimulate
the blood vessels then an
electroporation stylus pen is
used to target areas in more
need of hair growth, where
the absorption of the serum is
increased.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD IT BE DONE? Once
every two weeks until results are
noticeable. Svenson, GT Tower,
Ayala Avenue corner H.V. Dela
Costa Street, Makati.

precision. Also, it cuts down on

procedure time.
HOW DOES IT FEEL? Recovery is quick
and easy. Patients return to their
normal activities within a day
or two.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER? Noticeable
results appear in about six
months, but hair can begin
sprouting a few weeks after the
procedure. Dont believe us? Just
ask designer Inno Sotto, who
let us touch the growing hairs
on his scalp. As it is minimally
invasive, with the transplant
area concealed by a haircut,
you can go about your normal
routine without worrying about
someone noticing your hair
transplant, too. aivee.ph.
CLIFFORD OLANDAY

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

LOOKING
OO
G GLASS
G SS

B E A U T Y D I A RY

MA THEM
MAKE

F
FEEL
GOOD
Rosanna Laurel, T&Cs former events editor
and now beauty education manager at Rustans,
believes that much of beauty is about how you
make others feel.

hat led you to pursue beauty education after working in

publishing? I have always been interested in beauty but
working with Town & Country fueled my fascination and
left me wanting to learn more about the beauty industry. I decided
to pursue a course in beauty and wellness in Australia and this
taught me that beauty is not at all one-dimensional. I found it really
interesting understanding the changes our skin goes through in
life. We also have to pay close attention to certain ingredients and
understand how the skin responds. This training worked to my
advantage as an educational manager handling multiple brands
under the beauty division in Rustans. What challenges you? Change
is always a challenge. Trends and people come and go. I have to say
that rolling with those changes can be challenging at times. But it
can also be gratifying and liberating once you let go of how things
used to be. What impression do you hope to leave through your
personal look? Definitely substance. To be seen as a woman of value
and meaning is one of the greatest compliments one can get. What
other dreams are you in the process of fulfilling? I hope to pursue a
masters degree in entrepreneurship in the hope that it will equip
me with the business skills and knowledge I need in achieving my
dream of establishing an institute of beauty and wellness of the
highest standards. What would you never compromise on? Sleep! It
helps me be energized and productive throughout the day and it also
saves my skin. The term beauty sleepis not just an old wives tale, it
can actually reduce signs of aging. Most memorable beauty faux pas?
There was a time when bangs were a trend. I was getting ready for
a night out when I suddenly had this urge to cut my own bangs. The
outcome was horrible, uneven, and way too short. Good thing for
hairclips! Beauty icon? I adore Audrey Hepburn, I watched all her
films growing up. She had a very fresh face and embodied elegance
so perfectly. She was very captivating. When you watch her movies,
you only watch her. Best best beauty advice youve ever received? My
grandmother, who is 90, has the most amazing skin and her secret,
she says, is to moisturize and apply sunblock daily. It sounds simple,
but seeing how these tips helped her age so gracefully makes me
want to follow suit. Your personal definition of beauty? It would be
having the ability to make others feel comfortable. In doing so, you
have to be truly comfortable with yourself, your individuality, your
own style. That is when beauty is the most apparent to me. It is
natural and real.

D AY T O N I G H T
I prefer neutrals and earth
tones. Shades like taupe and
rose can look natural during
the day but can easily be
turned into a dramatic look at
night.
Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer;
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick in
Cocoa; Jane Iredale Pure Matte
pressed powder; Chanel lipstick;
Nars Matte Multiple in Laos, all
at Rustans Makati, 813.3739;
Jo Malone in Pear & Freesia,
opening soon at Greenbelt 5.

BEST BASE
Surprisingly the best
beauty tips have little
to do with makeup! The
secret is really all about
maintaining healthy skin.
Avene facial cleanser
and toner; Clarins
HydraQuench gel
moisturizer; Clarins UV
Plus SPF 40; Clarins
Double Serum, Clarins
Extra-Firming eye cream;
Sisley buffing cream, all at
Rustans Makati, 813.3739.

Produced by NICOLE LIMOS Photograph by DAN HARVEY

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 60

MAKEUP BY CLAIRE SEELIN DIOKNO FOR SHU UEMURA.

HAIR BY RICK DIOKNO FOR KIEHLS STYLIST SERIES

ROSANNAS GO-TO
PRODUCTS

August 2015

SOCIAL
NETWORK

PEOPLE, PLACES, AND PARTIES

David de Padua, Malu Francisco,

and Gerhard Kropp

Jesse Maxwell and Jessica Kienle

Vicki Belo and

Solenn Heussaff

Cristalle Henares
Jorge and Stella Araneta

M A N I L A PO LO C LU B

Beauty Buzz
Mikee
Romero

Margie Moran-Floirendo

ELEBRATING HER MEDICAL GROUPS

25th anniversary, Vicki Belo hosted the

Belo Cup at the Manila Polo Club. Team
Philippines, led by Mikee Romero, claimed
victory over Team Dubai in a thrilling match
held at the Don Enrique Zobel field. After
the match, guests enjoyed hors doeuvres
and champagne at the Clubs main lounge.
Regine Velasquez, Gary Valenciano, and Billy
Crawford were among the performers who
paid tribute to the Philippine National PoliceSpecial Action Force Fallen 44, who were
among the events beneficiaries.

Produced by S A M R I V E R A Photographs by I A N S A N T O S

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 62

Felix Ang

Ernest Escaler

SOCIAL NETWORK
Tony Rufino

Susie
MadrigalBayot

Karen and Richie Lerma

Leo and Marielle Po with Alex

Eduque and Mikkel Puyat

Wendy Puyat and

Pepper Teehankee

Anthony Garcia

Doris Ho and Mons Romulo

Kirk and Cristina Long

Greggy Araneta and Butch Albert

Atom Henares, Grace PoeLlamanzares, and Malu Gamboa

Dyan Castillejo

T&C 63

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

SOCIAL NETWORK
Mike Huang and Stephanie Chong

Xandra Rocha
Araneta

Christine Sandejas

FA S H I O N

Jewel Box

Tessa Mendoza

Rissa Mananquil-Trillo

AMIANI CELEBRATES 91 YEARS

in the industry as the only

family-managed
goldsmith
company from Italy. For the launch
of Damianis latest collection, The
Gallerie at Rustans Makati was lit
up with the brilliance of a thousand
precious diamonds. Third-generation
jeweler Giorgio Damiani formally
opened the event, followed b
by a
fashion show where mod
l in
models
Damiani pieces strutted do
h
down the
runway to the Opera Bell
Bells trios
music. Guests had a chance to take
k a
closer look at the jewelry w
when the
runway show was over.

Nedy Tantoco
and DJ Lopez

Gabriella Wegfahrt, Donnie Tantoco, and Agnes Roscigno

Produced by R O S A N N A P E R I Q U E T

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 64

Giorgio Grassi
Damiani

SOCIAL NETWORK

Yael Buencamino and

Javier Jose Calero

Edu Jarque and Bambi Harper

Trickie Lopa

Oscar Lopez

Boots Herrera, Maritess

Pineda, and Sheree Gotuaco

Kit Zobel de Ayala

Deanna Ongpin Recto and Cedie Lopez Vargas

ART EXHIBIT

Portrait of
an Artist

ENCAB CELEBRATED HIS 50-YEAR CAREER

with the exhibit Frames of Reference at the
Lopez Museum and Library. Showing the National
Artists works created in the late 60s and onward
while living abroad, a scrapbook-like collection of
clippings and sketches, and handcrafted books filled
with early studies of what would become his most
iconic works, Sabel and Japanese Women, the exhibit
allowed guests to see BenCab not just as an artist but
as an art collector, lover, and a family man through
personal letters and mementos also on view.

Fernando Zobel
de Ayala
BenCab

Annie Sarthou

Hetty and Paulino Que

Produced by S T E P H A N I E S H I Photographs by I A N S A N T O S

T&C 65

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

SOCIAL NETWORK
Monique Villonco

Zelda Kienle

Felicia Atienza
and Sevrine
Miailhe

BEAUTY

Lia Delgado-Infante

Evelyn Forbes and Yola Johnson

Tessa Prieto-Valdes
Lauro Baja

Vicky Kim

OME OF THE MOST ADMIRED

women in society served as the

subjects for Town&Country Philippines
founding editor Monique Villonco. Her
sharp lens captured various faces of grace
and elegance in the black and white exhibit
Timeless Beauty, in collaboration with
Korean skincare brand Areum founded by
David and Vicky Kim. Rustans and Areum
have built a glamorous five-star beauty
counter at Rustans Makati for women to
understand and enhance their skin through
consultations in a relaxed environment.

Lizzie Zobel de Ayala

David Kim and Nedy Tantoco

Produced by R O S A N N A P E R I Q U E T Photographs by M E D A L E L E PA O

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

Timeless
Beauty

T&C 66

SOCIAL NETWORK

Christina
Brandner

Dina Tantoco

Cessie Colayco and Jeanne Carpio

Fiona Ottiger
Charmaine Lagman
Kit Zobel de Ayala

Marilen Elizalde and Frances Lim

Daniel and Kim Lim

Grace Baja

Lulu Tan Gan, Isabel Roces,

and Alicia Herrera
Olivia dAbovillee

T&C 67

SOCIAL NETWORK
Mona Gallego and
Janet Coronel

Jessica Tan Gan, Lilianna Manahan, and Karla Cruz

Ching Cruz

Jackie Cohen-Antonio

Marianne Dy and
Regina Siy

Rosanna Ocampo-Rodriguez and Marielle Santos-Po

LAUNCH

Stephanie Kienle-Gonzalez

Maite Araneta and Anna Gloria

Fun Under
the Sun
NE-TIME T&C COVER SUBJECT MARIELLE

Santos-Po and designer Rosanna OcampoRodriguez recently launched Positano, a

resort wear line composed of pieces imported
from Italy. At the sunset affair hosted by
Caroline Tanchay at her home, guests mingled,
shopped, and were treated to signature Dean &
Deluca pastries such as crme brle croissants,
strawberry tarts, and white chocolate marble
brownies.

Nena Lu and Monique

Borja-Gonzalez

Photographs by N I K K I S A N T O S

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 68

Loralee
Soong

SOCIAL NETWORK
Richard Tiu, Cel and Renen de Guia,
and Jean Go

Amit Oberoi and Patrick Schaub

FA R E W E L L

Elizabeth Ty and
Alain Borgers

Liza Ilarde and

Lesley Tan

Jaylyn Malabuyoc, Joanne Yee,

and Matthew Squires
JJohnny
hnny Litton

Alex Lichaytoo

Lingling and Emerson Yao

New
Horizons
DSA SHANGRI-LA MANILA BID

adieu to its general manager of

two years, Patrick Schaub, and
welcomed incoming general manager
Amit Oberoi, who returned to Manila
after heading Shangri-Las Boracay
Resort & Spa for three years. Held at the
Garden Ballroom of Edsa Shangri-La,
the banquet was decked with wooden
sculptures by Arturo Luz and boasted
fine dishes from its Swiss, Indian,
Italian, Chinese, and Japanese food carts.
Alain Borgers, Shangri-La Philippine
Properties area general manager, led the
ceremonial handover of hotel keys.

Arturo Luz

Produced by S T E P H A N I E S H I Photographs by I A N S A N T O S

T&C 69

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

SOCIAL NETWORK
Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala

John Gokongwei, Robert Coyiuto,

and Tessie Sy Coson

Victor Paterno, Robina Gokongwei-Pe,

and Carlos Mendoza
Kevin Tan and Frederick Go

LAUNCH

Lisa Gokongwei Cheng

UMMIT

MEDIA

RECENTLY

LAUNCHED

Forbes Philippines, a magazine for the

countrys foremost CEOs and entrepreneurs
edited by business journalist Roel Landingin, at
the Makati Shangri-La Hotel. Said Summit Media
president and COO Lisa Gokongwei Cheng at the
launch, We are excited about the launch of Forbes
Philippines, which will offer readers insights on
success,
entrepreneurship,
and leadership. Such valuable
information will build the
Philippines business culture
and enable the economy and
Philippine society to reach
new heights. Forbes Philippines
comes at the perfect time, as
Summit Media celebrates its
20th anniversary this year.

Fidel V.
Ramos

Christopher Forbes, Franklin Drilon,

and William Adamopoulos

Produced by R O S A N N A P E R I Q U E T

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

Power
Players

T&C 70

SOCIAL NETWORK
Andrew
Tan

Edgar Sia and Tony Tan Caktiong

Serge and
Bettina Osmea

Lance Gokongwei

Gianna Montinola, Alfonso

Yuchengco III, and Sabin Aboitiz

Roberto de Ocampo and Ricardo Romulo

Hans Sy

Ramon Ang

Hans Sicat

Chris Po and Jay Leong-Gokongwei with

Barbara and Miguel Aboitiz

T&C 71

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

SOCIAL NETWORK

WEDDINGS
T R O P I C A L PA R A D I S E
The ceremony at the Balesin
Chapel was followed by a
reception at Thanassis Taverna in
Balesin Islands Mykonos Village.

ou and Enzo have known each other

for a while. Did sparks fly right away?

We met in 2001 when we were

both Psychology freshmen at Ateneo,
although we werent very close. We had
a common best friend, Shirlyn (who
became my maid of honor), whom we
would hang out with together back then.
After college we would individually
spend time with her and she would
always encourage us to date each other.
The idea seemed absurd to both of us
because we felt we werent each others
typeuntil 2013, when Shirlyn finally
convinced Enzo to ask me out on a date.
When did you know that you wanted to
marry him? My first impression of him

CARMELA MARIE
TAPIA CAMBALIZA weds
ENZO STEVEN
MONTINOLA VIRATA
More than a decade after they first met,
Mea and Enzo tied the knot over a threeday celebration on Balesin Island.

in college was that he was quiet and shy.

When we started dating, my impression
of him was the same, but my taste in men
had changed. I got to know him better
and found out that we shared the same
values in life despite having few things in
common. Around four months into the
relationship, I sometimes had thoughts of
him being the one. And one year later,
we were married. Did the proposal come
as a shock? While we were dating I made
a conscious effort not to expect anything
from him, so that included the future as
well. I just enjoyed being with him and
taking care of him. We didnt talk about
the future much so the proposal was very
much a surprise. How did he propose? We
were celebrating the eighth monthsary
of our Panic Day, or the day Enzo made
me panic when he first declared his love,
at his apartmentnow our homewith
wine, cheese, and cold cuts. My birthday
was coming up and he said he wanted
to give me something. He then handed
me a white box. When I saw that it was a ring inside, my first
thought was simply, Its a ring. It didnt sink in that he was
proposing until the words, I want to spend the rest of my life
with you. Will you marry me? came out of his mouth. I started
crying and of course said yes. Tell us about your wedding. We
chose to have it on Balesin because we both love the beach, and
Enzo has fond memories of the island because he and his family
would visit way before it was developed. While planning for a
wedding is always nerve-wracking, ours had its own challenges
since we didnt hire a planner and did everything ourselves, with
the help of our siblings. Our best friend advised us to see the
wedding planning as our first project together. And we did.

Produced by M A N I C A C . T I G L A O Photographs by I A N S A N T I L L A N

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 72

WEDDINGS

SOCIAL NETWORK

Benjo Cambaliza, Ayi Cambaliza, Joan Cambaliza, Raffy Cambaliza,

Romy Cambaliza, Mea Cambaliza-Virata, Wilma Tapia, Rommel
Cambaliza, Kaloi Cambaliza, Sarcus Cambaliza, and Domino Cambaliza

Nene Virata, Bethani Virata,

and Luis Virata

Teresita Montinola, Cesar and Joy Virata, Mikey

Virata, Brian Keyes, Jelly Virata, Me-Ann Asico,
Gigi Virata, and Annette Virata-Cabel

Stef Orendain and

Lexie Lopez

Libet Virata and

Buboy Virata

Diego Virata, Xavier Virata, Steven Virata,

Enzo Virata, Mia Virata, and Danni Virata

T&C 73

Nestor and Annie Virata

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

MANNERS &
MISDEMEANORS

NO JUDGING
I

HAVE NO CHILDREN. IM NOW ONE

of those terrible people who gets a

splitting headache from the high-pitched
babble of baby talk whenever I enter a Toys
R Us to buy a present for a godchild's
birthday, and who politely comes up with
some excuse or the other so as not to have
to attend the actual party.
I wasnt always like this. When I was
younger, I always imagined I would live
happily ever after with a great husband
who was nice to me and a child who looked
just like me. She would be a girl with a boys
name like George or Joey or Jimmy and she
would wear T-shirts and sneakers and enjoy
playing in the dirt. No girly girl for me, I
had decided long ago.
Unfortunately, the husband happened
but the child didnt, and fortunately it didnt
matter to the husband either way whether

we had one or not. He was fine with having

them, if thats what I wanted, but if we
didnt, he wasnt going to go crazy about it.
As we entered our mid-30s, my best
friend Liz underwent in vitro fertilization
and invited me to join her in her journey.
I probably did not want a child that much
because the thought of sticking a needle
into myself every day for weeks to get my
hormones raging outweighed the idea of
getting pregnant.
Liz had her baby and then two more,
and I soon became a doting auntie and
godmother. I adore her children and am
granted babysitting privileges every so
often so that a harassed Liz can treat herself
to a facial or massage. But I must admit that
after a Saturday afternoon at the pool or
of playing house with them, Im more than
happy to return the kids, and then spend

By L O U I S E P R I M A

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

In marriage, two become one. Adding

to that equation is a highly personal
matter of circumstance or choice.

T&C 74

my Sunday morning sleeping in late and

recuperating. Liz has no such option.
Recently my husband and I had dinner
with a bunch of couple friends, some with
children, others with none. As always,
the discussion of children superseded
everything else. The pluses and minuses
of local schools versus international
ones. Ateneo and Assumption vs. Beacon
or BSM or ISM? But they dont teach
religion. Everest then? What after-school
activities did their children do? Football?
Ballet? Violin lessons? Chinese? Singapore
Math? The parents with younger ones
sought advice from those older ones
about which school to send their kids.
Then came the enumeration of did-youhear-this kid just got early acceptance to
Princeton, and this one got into Brown,
and, horror of horrors, the valedictorian

P H O T O G R A P H S B Y Y I N YA N G / G E T T Y I M A G E S A N D C O U R T E S Y O F T H E D E B T P H O T O C A L L
( M I R R E N ) , G R E G H E R N A N D E Z ( W I N F R E Y ) , A N D E R I K C H A R LT O N ( G I L B E R T )

at the same school didnt make it to any of

the Ivies (or Stanford or MIT, which
one of the parents had to make sure that
we were all awareare much younger
schools, which is why they werent around
when the Ivy League was formed).
Then came the inevitable questions asked
of a recently married couple. No kids yet?
My husband and I had been asked that
question countless times in the past, and our
standard answer has always been, It never
happened. We wouldve loved one, but it
never happened.
The response to that was usually a head
tilt with a sympathetic look or a frown,
with a hand clutch at the heart.
Im so sorry would come the
embarrassed comment, which usually
ended the conversation, unless it was
with an over helpful person who then
proceeded to give different suggestions/
tips/recommendations on what to eat/
what to give up/which doctor to see
and even, believe it or not, what sexual
positions to use to increase the probability
of getting pregnant.
But this couples answer was different.
Weve decided not to have children. They
dont suit our lifestyle.
Awkward smiles. Uncomfortable silence.
Then came the look of people silently
judging other people. After a series of
throat clearing, someone finally asked, So
why did you get married if you have no
plans to have children?
Because we love each other, came
the answer.
But dont you think youre being
selfish? came the follow-up question.
Fortunately, a more tactful guest

managed to change the subject, but I must

say that couple became the unwilling
subject of many more judgmental
conversations in the days and months that
followed.
Lets see how long that marriage
lasts, was the statement made by many
married ones.
I really believe people shouldnt make
hasty generalizations.
Many happy couples with children say
their hearts are full thanks to their spouses
and their offspring.
Many happy childless couples say
their marriages have lasted because they
do not have to deal with the stress of
raising children.
Many of my friends who have stuck it
out for years in miserable marriages have
used their children as a reason for staying.
And many childless ones who have
strayed or walked away from their
marriages have used their not having
children as a reason for being unhappy.
Recently I was at the hospital for
an ultrasound. Unfortunately, to get an
ultrasound to detect cysts in my ovaries,
I had to be in the same waiting room as
many radiant, expectant mothers waiting
to get to ultrasounds to take a peek at their
soon-to-be children. When my ovarian
cysts had to be removed, I was wheeled into
an operating room in the maternity wing
where many adorable babies are delivered
every single day.
As I lay there on the operating table,
I must say I had a major bout of self-pity,
crying not only for myself, but for my
unborn children.
It may have just been my increased

estrogen which caused those tears. Or the

fear of what the surgeon would find in
there. Who knows? I woke up several hours
later with my cysts gone, and fortunately
declared benign, and my heart at peace.
A few months after that, I was having
a conversation with an acquaintance who
is a full-time mother, and she had the gall
to ask. No kids? I guess you chose your
career over your family life? Do you ever
regret it? You may not right now, but you
will later. Who will take care of you when
you get older?
Suffice to say that I dont regret saying
that acquaintance will always remain an
acquaintance. She will never be my friend.
Many of my older friends have taken
the adoption route and have found true
happiness with the children of their heart.
So many beautiful, unwanted children
out there in orphanages waiting, hoping,
praying to be loved.
We may yet take the adoption route
one day. Maybe well have a girl with a
boys name like George or Joey or Jimmy
who will dress in T-shirts and sneakers
and whom we will get down with on our
wobbly knees and play in the dirt.
Maybe. Or maybe not.
At this point I am happy and fulfilled
with the way my life has turned out. No
looking back on what could have been or
what might have been. Just looking forward
to what I can do to help make this world a
better place for other peoples children out
there and the many children to come.
I believe everyone is entitled to their
own decision on what path to take with
their lives.
No judging.

Child-Free BY CHOICE
Women who have redefined
what it means to have it all.

ELIZABETH GILBERT

Im just not a mom.

I think its better for
everyone if I create and
nurture in other ways,

OPRAH WINFREY

I have not one regret about

not having children,
she told Barbara Walters in 2010.

Gilbert wrote in her blog.

CONDOLEEZZA RICE

HELEN MIRREN

It was not my destiny.

(British Vogue, February 2013)

Im very religious and I

at some very deep level
believe that things are
going to work out as
theyre supposed to.
(Ladies' Home Journal, October 2010)

T&C 75

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

A DAYWITH
August 2015

Rissa
MANANQUILTRILLO

A L L AG LO W
Rissa wears a Two Chic top
(price upon request), 6239
Maalac Street, Poblacion,
Makati, 899.2435. Opposite:
Rissa and a newborn Audra.

Styled by C A R O L E C U A S AY-TA G L E Photographs by K A I H U A N G

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 76

M A K E U P B Y J I G S M AY U G A . H A I R B Y E D D I E M A R C A B I LT E S

The model, Philippine Star

columnist, and co-founder of
Happy Skin Cosmetics talks
to Yvette Fernandez about
far-out ideas, her Ugly Duckling
Crew, and celebrating the
beauty of the Filipina.

A DAY WITH
What time did you wake up today?

8 a.m.
Whats the rst thing you usually do
when you wake up?
Check on my one-year-old daughter,
Audra, who often sleeps with me and my
husband Paolo.
What did you have for breakfast?
Breakfast sausage and perfectly poached
eggs drizzled with pesto, which my son
Enzo cooked.
You have a teenager and two little girls
and yet have always been in tiptop shape.
Whats your secret?
Being a hands-on mom exercises both the
mind and body. Ha ha!
Any diet?
I dont follow any in particular. But I drink
a lot of alkaline water from our Kangen
machine, at least three liters a day. I bring
several water jugs with me everywhere I go.
Exercise routine?
My abdominal muscles weakened after
two consecutive pregnanciesit felt like
I was doing crunches every time I sneezed
or coughed! So I started doing Pilates at
Options Studio in Greenhills. Its the first
Pilates facility located within a chiropractic
setting so it was also perfect for my lower
back. You can already feel the difference
with just the first few sessions. Youll
discover muscles you never knew you had.
But I also credit my current body shape to
breastfeeding. It worked wonders to get
me back to my pre-pregnancy weight even
before I started Pilates.
What do you usually wear to work?
Dresses. These are the fashion items I
turn to with confidence. They work for
me when I dont know what to wear.
They ow over a womans aws and hug
the right places. They are reliable pieces
that never fail to make a woman feel
remarkable.
Whats always in your handbag?
My favorite Montblanc pen and at least
two to three shades of our bestselling
Happy Skin Shut Up & Kiss Me
moisturizing lippies. The skin on the lips
is one of the thinnest and doesnt secrete
natural oils, so it doesnt have the ability to
keep itself moisturized.
How did you come up with the idea for
Happy Skin?
It has always been my dream to have
my own makeup line. Not the kind
that merely attaches my name on the
packaging but the kind which allows
me to be hands-on with creating,
formulating, testing everything from
the start. Ive been modeling for 15 years

and have had every imaginable makeup

brand on my face. Many of them instantly
prettify you, but the biggest beauty woe is
going home with ruined skin. As a beauty
columnist, Ive also road-tested countless
beauty products. Partnering with Jacqe
Yuengtian-Gutierrez, who previously
handled big beauty brands at Unilever,
allowed me to make this dream come
true and offer so much more to make the
Filipina feel effortlessly more beautiful.
Tell us about the brand.
Women invest in expensive moisturizers
and creams only to break out when we
use makeup. So we created a makeup line
that actually cares for your skin. All the
best skincare products in the world will be
put to waste if you dont use good quality
makeup that also takes care of your skin.
Truly good makeup should be your ally,
not your enemy, in making you look and
feel more beautiful.
How do you come up with new Happy
Skin products season after season?
Its womens wishes and complaints that
inspire our products. We listen to our
market.
Most far-out idea yet?
A makeup brush case that automatically
cleans your brushes after every use!
Style icon?
Audrey Hepburn. For me, she became more
beautiful as she got older spending her time
with UNICEF.
You teach at the School of Fashion and
the Arts. Whats that like?
I love teaching. I passionately want to
share and pass on what Ive learned
from my years of modeling. After

T&C 77

serving on the board of the Professional

Models Association of the Philippines
(PMAP) for nine years, with five years
as president, this is my own small way of
continuing to push for professionalism in
the world of modeling.
I like making women feel great
whether its through sharing beauty
tips and advice in my column, teaching
modeling, fighting for models
rights, celebrating Filipina beauty, or
empowering them through makeup.
Youve been modeling for years, yet
youve said you never thought that would
happen because you had been teased as a
child. Tell us about that.
I was called a lot of names growing up. I
never really thought I could be a model
until a Benetton campaign gave me the
chance. I guess after receiving so many
labels, what you do is accept these names
and labels and transcend them. That was
my mindset. I wanted to go beyond all
these labels and prove everyone wrong.
My barkada is called the UDC. What
does it mean? The Ugly Duckling Crew.
It all started when one of our kabarkadas
boyfriends saw all our old high school
photos and teased us on our looks. With
our buckteeth, braces, excess facial hair,
pimpled round faces, oily skin, baduy
ill-fitting clothes and the most horrible
haircuts, he said we were all ugly
ducklings! And so the Ugly Duckling
Crew was born.
Today, we continue to call ourselves the
UDC. Its a wonderful reminder to never
be insecure of how you look, no matter
how pretty you think your friends are.
You'll later realize that you have turned
from that seemingly ugly duckling into
the prettiest swan of them all!
And you have time to write for the
Philippine Star too. Whats it like having
your mom, Millet Mananquil, as an editor?
When it comes to deadlines and
requirements, she is my boss and not my
mother. But it was she who gave me my love
for reading and writing.
Your husband Paolo is team manager of
the PBA team Meralco Bolts. Are you a
basketball fan?
I never got into basketball, but I belonged
to the first batch of female cheerleaders
at Ateneo.
How often do you watch his games?
I used to watch every single game after
we became a couple in 2006until I gave
birth to my two daughters and Happy Skin.
Do you ever play yourself?
No.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

A DAY WITH

F A M I LY A F FA I R
Rissas children, Enzo and
Celestia; Rissa with husband
Paolo in Japan; daughters
Celestia and Audra.
Opposite: Two Chic top and
skirt (prices upon request),
6239 Maalac Street, Poblacion,
Makati, 899.2435; Janina Dizon
bracelet (price upon request),
The Peninsula Manila, 887.2888.

You used to be a dancer!

I danced ballet growing up and was an

apprentice with the Philippine Ballet
Theater, dancing in productions like
Romeo and Juliet and Swan Lake at the
Cultural Center of the Philippines. I miss
it terribly.
What book are you reading right now?
Goodnight Moon, which we read to Audra
every night.
Recent books that stand out?
#GirlBoss, by Sophia Amoruso.
Staple magazines?
I like Preview, Cosmopolitan, Allure, InStyle,
and Vogue.
What music is on your playlist?
Childrens music for my kids who love
to sing and dance every time they hear
music.
Describe your personal clothing style.
A fusion of clean, timeless, and the
unexpected.
Favorite shops?
Rustans, Adora, and Sephora. Im also
drawn to bookstoresI can spend an entire
afternoon here!
Clothing staple?
My mom says I have too many camel bags
and shoes.
Favorite brand and designer of clothing?
Harlan + Holden and Issey Miyake.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

Whats the newest piece of clothing you

bought?
A custom-made gown for an event.
Shoes?
Casadei stilettos.
Watch?
Philip Stein.
What fragrance are you wearing?
Maison Francis Kurkdjian APOM Pour
Femme.
What do you like most about your
appearance?
My dimple.
Lunch today: business or pleasure?
Both. With my Happy Skin business
partner and co-founder, Jacqe. Were
dining at Pepper Lunch at the Estancia
Mall, which is a stones throw away from
our oce.
Whats on the menu?
Since we both enjoy Filipino food, we want
to try the new sisig and lechon pepper rice.
Favorite restaurants?
Mecha Uma, Tsukiji, and Kai.
Favorite cuisine?
Japanese.
Drink of choice?
Fresh carrot juice or fresh fruit juices.
Who is your dream lunch companion?
Meralco Bolts head coach and Paolos good
friend, Norman Black, because even when he

T&C 78

talks about basketball, I learn so much about

life from him.
Were you given any great advice today?
Yes, by my daughter Celestia. Smile,
Mommy! she always says.
Have you dispensed any advice of your
own?
Yes, every Wednesday for my weekly fashion
and beauty advice column, Style S.O.S.,with
Lucy Torres-Gomez and Regina Belmonte.
What was the prettiest thing you saw
today?
A vase of fresh owers and my two
daughters giggling together.
What do you do as soon as you get home?
Kiss Paolo and hug my children.
Tell me a bit about your kids.
Enzo, 17, is an amazing kuya, like a third
parent to Celestia and Audra. He just
graduated from high school in March from
La Salle Greenhills and will be going to
Ateneo for college. He has a natural love for
cooking and whips up the most unexpected
yet creative dishes. #mychefenzo
Celestia, 2, is a ball of energy, loves to
sing and dance, very affectionate, and has an
astonishing memory for detail. A great ate
to Audra! When I was pregnant, Celestia
would always hug and kiss my belly. Now, she
constantly asks if she can help take care of the
baby. #celestiatrillo

A DAY WITH

And Audra, 1our doctors thought she

looked like Celestia when she was born,
but she now looks like Paolo. Her own
personality is shining through. Shes the
youngest but the most assertive, smiles easily,
and loves to explore. #audratrillo
See any of them following in your
footsteps?
I cant say right now. But they have my support
no matter what they decide to pursue.
What does your home look like?
Like a modern minimalist museum invaded
by toddlers. But its okay. For now, mess is
a sign of happiness in our home and makes
for good memories.
Whats the newest thing youve bought
for your home?
A sofa bed for our room, so we can have
movie night with the girls, and new dining
light fixtures.

How do you entertain?

With homecooked meals by my husband,

Paolo, and my son, Enzo, who both love
to cook.
How often?
During special family occasions.
Any guilty pleasure today?
Chocolates. My weakness.
Greatest extravagance?
Travel and good food.
Pet peeve?
People who do it the easy way, instead of
doing it the right way.
Who is your dream date?
My husband, Paolo. I hope my
daughters first dates will be with men
who are like him.
Love of your life?
Paolo Trillo. Hes as sweet as the first day
we met. He makes me feel like every day

T&C 79

is like the first day of our relationship.

Quality you like most in a man?
Malambing.
Where are you having dinner tonight?
Homecooked dishes by Enzo because its
our cooks day off.
Whats for dinner?
Enzo made French beans with baby
corn, jalapeo poppers, tuna-filled pita
pockets.
What else are you up to tonight?
Catching up on work and e-mail when
everyone is asleep.
What time are you going to sleep?
Around 2 a.m.
What do you hope to dream about?
My next travel destination with my
husband and children. These are our
favorite bonding moments! When Im
with them, Im at my happiest.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

ABLE ON
for

THE MODERN
WOMAN FOLLOWS
A STRICT DRESS
CODE OF GLORIOUS
TAILORING AND
SINGULAR CHARM.
PRESENTING
AN EXCLUSIVE
GLIMPSE INTO THE
MICHAEL KORS
FALL COLLECTION.
PHOTOGRAPHS BY PAOLO PINEDA
STYLED BY CAROLE CUASAY-TAGLE

ROOM TO REFLECT

There is elegance in her

mysterious gaze. Michael Kors
dress and belt, (prices upon
request) Power Plant Mall,
890.8705; michaelkors.com.
Jewelmer Les Classiques gold and
champagne South Sea pearl
necklace (price upon request),
Glorietta 4, 729.6735.

COCKTAIL HOUR

Her style is classic with

remarkable taste. Michael Kors
dress (price upon request),
Power Plant Mall, 890.8705;
michaelkors.com. Jewelmer Swan
Hook earrings and Via Rosa
ring (prices upon request),
Glorietta 4, 729.6735.

LADY ON THE
STREET

She takes bold steps and

gets all the attention.
Michael Kors coat,
sweater, trousers, and
shoes (prices upon
request), Power Plant
Mall, 890.8705;
michaelkors.com.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 83

SOLO FLIGHT

She dresses not for a man but

for herself. Michael Kors
sweater, skirt, belt, and shoes
(prices upon request), Power
Plant Mall, 890.8705;
michaelkors.com. Jewelmer
Les Classiques bracelets of
champagne South Sea pearls
(price upon request),
Glorietta 4, 729.6735.

84 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

HIGH MAINTENANCE

She starts her day unruffled in

tailored finery. Michael Kors
jacket, shirt, skirt, and belt
(prices upon request), Power Plant
Mall, 890.8705; michaelkors.com.
Jewelmer Les Classiques white
pearl necklace (prices upon
request), Glorietta 4, 729.6735.
Makeup by Amanda Padilla for At
East | Jed Root. Hair by Eddie Mar
Cabiltes. Model: Jane of Elite. Nails
by Creations Salon, Somerset
Olympia, 551.7491 and
0908.897.7360. Shot on location at
Bistro du Vin, G/F Edades Tower
and Garden Villas, Rockwell,
958.6712.

CHRIS YAM DAEZ

MULTIFACETED

MYSTERY
As told to MARIA MILAGROS G. AGUSTINES
Styled by CAROLE CUASAY-TAGLE
Photographs by PAOLO PINEDA

TOP FORM

Bottega Veneta coat (price upon

request), Greenbelt 4, 757.6293;
Louis Vuitton ring (price upon
request), Greenbelt 4, 756.0637.

86 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 87

ON POINT

Gucci dress (price upon request),

Greenbelt 4, 757.6297; Louis
Vuitton earrings and ring (prices
upon request), Greenbelt 4,
756.0637. Opposite: Herms top
and skirt (prices upon request),
Greenbelt 3, 757.8910; Louis
Vuitton necklace, bracelet, and
ring (prices upon request),
Greenbelt 4, 756.0637.

88 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

ER LIFE IS MULTIHUED, FILLED WITH AN

EXHAUSTING ARRAY OF ACTIVITIES IN
THE VARIOUS AREAS OF HER DAY-TODAY EXISTENCE. HOW SHE MANAGES IT
ALL IS A MYSTERY, AND WILL REMAIN
SO. SHE IS ALSO A VERY PRIVATE PERSON
WHO PREFERS TO STAY AWAY FROM
THE LIMELIGHT AND FOCUSES HER
ENERGIES ON HER GROWING FAMILY
AND BUSINESSES. SHE IS INTELLIGENT,
GENEROUSLY BLESSED BY APHRODITE,
AND THE SORT OF PERSON WHO
MAKES EASY AND LONG-TERM
FRIENDSHIPS. AND IF YOU ARE LUCKY, YOU MAY CHANCE
UPON HER AT HER USUAL HAUNTS: A BUSY COFFEE SHOP, A
FAVORITE EATING PLACE, OR PERHAPS YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
BOOKSTORE, AND GET TO KNOW HER YOURSELF.
HERES A GUARDED GLIMPSE INTO THE MULTIFACETED WORLD
OF CHRIS YAM DAEZ, IN HER OWN WORDS.
I was born on August 10, 1980. My mom held me in for two
days so I could have the same birthday as her fatherthe Grand
Old Manthe late Senator Lorenzo M. Taada. The Taadas
are a political family from Gumaca, Quezon. My grandfather
was the longest-serving senator in Philippine history. On my
fathers side, my great grandfather Yam
Chee Sing was born in China and came
to the Philippines to establish the first
printing press in the country.
My parents always made sure we had
our meals, went to church, and prayed
together as a family. My dad loved the
beach so we would travel around the
Philippine beaches every chance we had.
This is why I am a certified scuba diver
and feel at home anywhere close to the
ocean. Every weekend was spent at my
grandparents vacation home in Tagaytay
and our summer and Christmas holidays
were spent in Baguio.
I was a little tomboy with short hair who
loved sports and playing games with my
older brothers. I was closest to my sister,
Jovi, though I am very close to all of my
four brothers. I love my family dearly. I
had a very happy childhood so it would be
difficult to just isolate one favorite memory.
My mom used to have a baking business in
our home, which is why it always smelled
like butter. Our home was like a little zoo
with all sorts of pets. We had rabbits, chickens, a snake, fish, ducks,
turtles, parrots Some at the same time and others at different
times. We always had a dog at home which is why it is my favorite
pet. I treated our dog like the younger sibling I never had.

Im blessed to have a handful of best friends from different

chapters of my life such as high school, college, and former
colleagues. I went to Assumption College in San Lorenzo from
prep to high school. I had so much fun growing up with my high
school friends to whom I am still very close. We often took out
of town trips together and had our own
cryptic language so no one else would
understand. We see still each other often
and will definitely grow old together.
College was a time for self-discovery. I
went to De La Salle University and finished
a double degree in political science and
business management. I had more freedom
and did not feel as sheltered as I did in high
school. I loved college because it was a
time when I met a lot of people and made
lifetime friendships.
I look for people who are genuine, loyal,
and trustworthy. My closest friendships
keep me grounded and I am truly blessed
to be surrounded by genuine and honest
friends with whom I can be completely at
ease. They would describe me as a cheerful,
hardworking, and loyal friend.
My husband is my closest confidant.
We have no secrets. In a partner, I
looked for someone God-centered,
loyal, hard working, and faithful. The
secret to marriage is praying together,
communication, kindness, and respect.
My husband is more of the entrepreneur than myself and we
have a great partnership. What I like most about having our own
business is being able to manage my time because at the end of the
day, taking care of our children is my priority. I try my best to be

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 89

I NEVER KNEW ONES TRUE CAPACITY TO

LOVE TILL I HAD MY OWN CHILDREN. ITS
LIKE HAVING YOUR HEART WALKING OUTSIDE
YOUR BODY AND IT SCARES YOU BECAUSE YOU
CANT PROTECT THEM FROM EVERYTHING.
-CHRIS, ON BEING A MOM

90 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

WORKING IT

Bottega Veneta sweater, jacket,

pants, and shoes (prices upon
request), Greenbelt 4, 757.6293;
Louis Vuitton ring and
bracelet (prices upon request),
Greenbelt 4, 756.0637.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 91

CAMERA READY

Bottega Veneta sweater and skirt

(prices upon request), Greenbelt 4,
757.6293; Louis Vuitton bracelets
(prices upon request), Greenbelt 4,
756.0637. Opposite: Gucci dress
(price upon request), Greenbelt 4,
757.6297; Louis Vuitton cu and
ring (prices upon request),
Greenbelt 4, 756.0637.
Makeup by Patrick Alcober for Shu
Uemura. Hair by Rhoy Cervantes.
Shoot assistant: Grace Sacares.
Shot on location at Novamobili,
Bonifacio High Street.

0 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

present where I am needed the most based on my priorities: first

as wife, then as mother, while my work comes last.
Our store carries furniture brands Hlsta and Rolf Benz, and
flooring brands Parador and Boen. Hlsta and Rolf Benz are the
two leading German furniture brands. Theyre owned by the same
company and represent the best that Germany has to offer when
it comes to premier furniture. We love German precision, quality,
and functionality.
I also handle the PR for The Halal Guys Philippines. Were the
first franchise in the world to open this year. I first discovered
them when I visited friends in New York several years ago,
and I was hooked immediately because the food was great
and satisfying for a couple of dollars. When The Halal Guys
announced their decision to start
franchising the brand, it was very
serendipitous because my husband and I
were in New York. We are huge fans and
had no difficulty at all convincing them
that this restaurant would do well in the
Philippines. The Halal Guys Philippines
will be offering the same menu offered
by their famous New York food carts and
brick-and-mortar shopseverything
from the chicken and beef rice platters to
gyros and sandwiches with lamb, chicken,
and falafel.
I draw inspiration from my travels and
the books I read. I love learning through
traveling to different cultures, having new
experiences, and meeting people. Manila
will always be home but I equally love
London, Prague, Brussels, Edinburgh, and
Tokyo. To unwind, I have a glass of wine,
read, cook, or bake for my family, and get
an occasional massage. For leisure, I love
to do hot yoga, running, and boxing.
I have no regrets because some of my
greatest lessons have been learned from
my mistakes. The only thing I wish I could
have done was to continue studying interior design because it is
something Im passionate about. I was a full-time student for half
a year while working and taking care of the kids. I had to put this
on hold because I had too many responsibilities at the time. The
challenge of having your own business is that there is no point
you can completely clock out. There was a time I went back to
work only two weeks after giving birth because of the launch
of a new brand. That was physically, mentally, and emotionally
challenging for me because I had a difficult second pregnancy.
Work is fulfilling, being able to build communities through our
business by bringing people with the same interests together.
The best part is also being able to give back to society through a
foundation we put up.
Its true when they say that being a mom is the hardest
and most rewarding job in your life. It is a 24/7 job. I was
afraid of making mistakes especially since I had absolutely
no experience taking care of any sibling, being the youngest
in my family. I learned in time there is no perfect way to
being a parent and we have to try to do the best we can. Our
children bring so much more joy and light into our lives. They
teach me to value the little things in life and to see the world
through a childs eyes. I never knew ones true capacity to love

till I had my own

children. Its like
having my heart
walking outside my
body and it scares
me because I cant
protect them from
everything. Its the
little things that
matter. Seeing them
smile and laugh every day makes my day complete. I melt every
time they hug or kiss me, say thank you and I love you. They
always want to sleep beside me at night. It makes everything
worthwhile. I hope and pray that they grow up to be better
versions of their parents. My wish is that they become Godfearing gentlemen who will not compromise their integrity
and become a moral compass for others. I want them to always
remember that their mom was someone whom they could talk
to, someone who gave the time to be present and trust that
they be understood. I want them to see that whatever I have
done for them was always born out of love and that I always
did the best I could.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 93

CLASS
BY MANICA C. TIGLAO PHOTOGRAPHS BY GABBY CANTERO
SHOT ON LOCATION AT THE CITY CLUB

0 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

ACT

THE SKYS THE LIMIT FOR

THESE 20 ACCOMPLISHED
GRADUATES AS THEY
PREPARE TO START A
BRAND-NEW CHAPTER AT
SOME OF THE MOST ELITE
ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS
AROUND THE WORLD.

IN A DIFFERENT LEAGUE

From left: Beatriz Go, Miguel Ayala, Bianca Gotuaco

Miguel Vera, Adelle Dimitui,
A GBenny
AU
U S T Adapon,
2015 | 0
Mikaella Evaristo, Christine Gosioco, and Lucas
Ramos. Seated: Paco Litonjua and Lorenzo Siy.

THE MUSIC
PLAYS ON

Leandro Bengzon, Matt Sicat,

and Kirby Belmonte.

0 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

M A K E U P BY BY R O N V E L A S Q U E Z A N D J E S S A T E L LO F O R M . A . C A N D PAT R I C K A LC O B E R F O R S H U U E M U R A .
H A I R BY PAT T Y I N O J A L E S . O P P O S I T E : G R O O M I N G BY V I D A N O N J A U C I A N A N D BY R O N V E L A S Q U E Z F O R M . A . C

LEANDRO BENGZON

BROWN UNIVERSITY
Brown was ranked 4th in
happiness and 6th in stress
by Newsweeka perfect
combination of enjoyment
and rigor, Leandro notes.
With a small school and
a large staff, I can build
relationships with teachers,
something Ive done with
many of my past mentors.
Leandro, an easygoing
teenager with a penchant for
playing music onstage, can
certainly count on having
fun while being challenged
when he goes off to college
to major in computer
science. After studying the
subject for two consecutive
years while at International
School Manila, Leandro
is considering going into
software development. I
like the idea of creating
applications that fill certain
needs, he says. A recent
achievement for Leandro was
leading his band, The Shire,
to a second-place finish at
ISMs Battle of the Bands.

MATTHEW SICAT

BROWN UNIVERSITY
Both my grandfathers,
one as an economist and
the other as a judge, found
ways to give back to the
Philippines. While its
obviously not set in stone,
I applied for a political
science degree because I
also want to eventually give
back to my home, Matt
says. Taking after his father,
Philippine Stock Exchange
President Hans Sicat, Matt
has demonstrated a similar
interest in finance and law,
which hell explore further
at Brown University. A
winning combination of
brains and brawn, Matt not
only played the drums in his
band, The Shire, and helped
secure first- and third-place
finishes for his schools
tennis and softball teams,
respectively, at Southeast
Asian competitions, he

THINKING BIG

Adelle Dimitui, Miguel Vera,

Bianca Gotuaco, and Paco Litonjua.

was also recently inducted

into International School
Manilas Quill and Scroll,
an honor society for
student journalists.

KIRBY BELMONTE

BROWN UNIVERSITY
If Im not the general
manager of an NBA team
after I graduate, I will
probably be working in
finance, says the basketball
aficionado. For now, Kirby,

who was admitted to

Brown via early decision
last year, is inclined to
study Business, Economics,
and Organizations with a
concentration on business
economics. A former member
of International School
Manilas basketball team,
Kirby was vice president
of the Philippine Cultural
Club and president of the
American Cultural Club
two early opportunities

at leadershipon his
senior year. I enjoyed the
responsibility that these highranking positions gave me,
he says. The 19-year-old also
enjoys writing in his spare
time and has contributed
articles to NBA.com.ph.

ADELLE DIMITUI

PRINCETON UNIVERSITY
The editor chief of
International School Manilas
Kawayan yearbook and

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 97

MIGUEL VERA

STANFORD UNIVERSITY
Nobody can accuse Miguel
of not making the most
of his high school years.
This British School Manila
graduate has certainly
fulfilled more than his share
of responsibilities, having
experienced being head of
the student council, captain
of the varsity basketball
team, news editor of the
schools magazine, the
Winston, and president of
Empowering Brilliant Minds
Foundation youth council,
for which he and his peers
helped build libraries. Miguel
was also a Model United
Nations delegate and a

98 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

student mentor, and even

joined theater adaptations
such as Some Like It Hot.
He will be the third Vera
sibling to attend Stanford,
where hell study either
economics or computer
science. Even from a young
age, I have tended to enjoy
using numbers rather than
words, Miguel shares.
I consider myself to be
inquisitive and adept at
solving problems, which
will enable me to succeed in
the world of business.

BIANCA GOTUACO

COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
A member of the Philippine
national archery team,
Bianca is most in her
element at the range, having
competed at the 2015 SEA
Games and at the 2014
Youth Olympic Games.
Luckily, shell be able to
continue her training even
after she heads to Columbia
Universitys hallowed halls
as a freshman. In 2014, the
18-year-old International
School Manila graduate
took the top prize at the
U.S. National Archery
Championshipsa feat
that seized the attention
of the Columbia Lions
varsity archery team, which
Bianca is now a member of.
Though the sport will take
up much of her time outside
of academics, Bianca is
determined to keep her eye
on the prize on and off the
range as she prepares to earn
a degree in management
systems and engineering.

PACO LITONJUA

STANFORD UNIVERSITY
If Google would have me, I
would love to take a swing
in that incredible dynamic
organization, Paco says. Id
like to check out the IT scene
in the Palo Alto area after
graduation. Google and the
rest would be fortunate to
score the 18-year-old from
British School Manila who

recently topped the World

GCSE score in Mathematics.
While interning at the
University of the Philippines,
Paco co-wrote a research
paper on investigating the
effect of plasma treatment
on the fire retardancy of
bamboo that was later
published in a national
science journal. His natural
aptitude for mathematics
and science pushed him
to choose the sciences
over liberal arts, and hes
currently set on majoring in
physics at Stanford, where
he hopes to follow the path
of Nobel laureates in the
natural sciences.

CHANTAL MARAUTA

BROWN UNIVERSITY
Theres no rational way
to explain itI just knew
that it was the perfect fit,
says Chantal of her college
tour at Brown, which shell
be attending in the fall.
With her wide range of
talents and interests, from
theater and dance to fine
arts and writing, the Milan
native looks forward to
taking advantage of Browns
renowned theater program,
though shell be taking up
international relations as her
major. Its an environment
where I know Ill be able
flourish in my own time,
on my own terms, Chantal
says. Im keen to work at a
humanitarian organization.
Im very much a people
person and it brings me joy
to work with my peers to
better the lives of others,
she says. Though she isnt
closing her doors to a
chance to work in broadcast
television again either
(Chantal was a junior news
anchor on PTV4 during her
freshman and sophomore
years at International
School Manila). If the
opportunity to go back
into newscasting, writing,
or production will arise, I
would love to explore that.

DANIELLE LIMCAOCO

STANFORD UNIVERSITY
Danielles final addition to
a long list of high school
achievements was one that
many a student has dreamed
of and competed for:
graduating valedictorian. The
president of International
School Manilas senior
class council, editor of the
yearbook and the official
student publication, and a
member of the junior varsity
volleyball team and the Cum
Laude honor society, Danielle
is indeed accomplished
but whats notable about
this overachiever is her
inclination to charitable
causes. She co-founded
Librery, an organization that
builds libraries and mobile
libraries for orphanages,
with her older sister Mika
(currently at Stanford),
and headed PREP, which
encourages underprivileged
children in public schools
in Tagaytay to foster a love
for learning. After studying
history, art history, or
urban studies at Stanford,
Danielle plans to join a
nongovernment organization
and commit to service work
in the Philippines for some
years before exploring
journalism, advertising, and
museum work.

ROM VILLARICA

UNIVERSITY OF
PENNSYLVANIA
Given the rise of
technological innovation,
more and more of the
best and the brightest
students are looking to
join the fold. Rom is one
of themand its likely
hell succeed in doing just
that after pursuing a dual
degree in computer science
and management at the
University of Pennsylvania.
The captain of International
School Manilas varsity swim
team and head programmer
of the robotics club,
Rom dreams of someday

O P P O S I T E : M A K E U P BY BY R O N V E L A S Q U E Z A N D J E S S A T E L LO F O R M . A . C . A N D PAT R I C K A LC O B E R F O R S H U U E M U R A . H A I R BY PAT T Y I N O J A L E S

president of the Global

Issues Network Committee
as well as the French
Society, Adelles passions
in high school were of the
creative persuasion: art and
literature. When she heads
to Princeton next month,
however, she will be studying
not the liberal arts, but
mechanical and aerospace
engineering. Adelle was first
acquainted with prototyping
during the month-long
Launch program at the
Massachusetts Institute
of Technology, where she
was part of a competitive
selection of 43 high school
students chosen to design
and build devices over
one summer. Mine was
clumsy and unpolished at
best, she remembers. But
the experience solidified
my desire to learn about
engineering in order to
fulfill my newfound goal
of creating a technological
innovation that will
have a positive social
and economic impact on
society. Still, she wont be
giving up her first love. Its
still my dream to make a
bestselling graphic novel
one day, Adelle says. And
I wouldnt mind writing a
bestselling novel either.

OH, THE PLACES

YOULL GO
Chantal Marauta, Danielle
Limcaoco, and Rom Villarica.

POISED FOR
SUCCESS

Vito Puyat, Sabie Romulo,

and Chiara Benitez.

founding a technology
startup and hopes to be
able to understand both
the management side and
the engineering side of his
future company. Only 17,
Rom has already learned
coding, a valuable skill that
has been called job skill of
the future by media outlets.
He says, Id like to get into
software development. I love
programming, and a job in
that field would allow me to
integrate my passions into
my work. Rom was recently
selected for his schools
Outstanding Student Award
in Computer Science as
well as the Exemplary
Student Award for overall
academic excellence.

M A K E U P BY BY R O N V E L A S Q U E Z A N D J E S S A T E L LO F O R M . A . C . A N D PAT R I C K A LC O B E R F O R S H U U E M U R A .
H A I R BY PAT T Y I N O J A L E S . O P P O S I T E : M A K E U P BY BY R O N V E L A S Q U E Z F O R M . A . C . H A I R BY V I D A N O N J A U C I A N

VITO PUYAT

UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE LONDON
Though hes been offered
a scholarship at Newcastle
University, Vito will most
likely head to University
College London to study
biology. His high school years
at Beacon Academy were filled
with stints with the football
team, debate club, and Model
United Nations, the latter of
which he considers the pillar
for his development as a
writer, speaker, and leader. His
interests span disciplines, from
the arts (his favorite writers
and playwrights include
Gabriel Garca Mrquez, E.E.
Cummings, Albert Camus,
and George Bernard Shaw) to
the sciences, but its the latter
that has truly captured his
heart, stemming from an early
fascination with dinosaurs.
His experience at the
Cambridge Tradition program
only served to deepen his
interest in other branches of
the sciences. Im certain that
I will always be passionate
about learning biology, he
says. I want to be able to
bring about developments so
that the knowledge I can offer
may also help enrich the lives
of Filipinos.

SIGNS OF
PROMISE

Miguel Ayala, Beatriz Go,

Lorenzo Siy, and
Christine Gosioco.

SABIE ROMULO

GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
I grew up hearing about
Georgetown, as many
members of my family have
attended the school, says
Sabie. Im ecstatic to find
out why this institution
has a special place in my
familys heart. Like her
great-grandfather, Carlos

P. Romulo, a diplomat,
statesman, and recipient
of the Pulitzer Prize for
Correspondence, Sabie hopes
to pave a career in diplomacy
and international relations
and someday join the ranks
of the United Nations.
She considers serving as
student council president at
Beacon Academy and deputy
secretary-general at Model

United Nations as baby steps

toward realizing her goal;
the next, of course, will
be to excel while earning
a degree in foreign service
at Georgetown. Although
I never met him, my
great-grandfather and his
achievements have inspired
me. I can only hope to
achieve a fraction of what
he achieved.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 101

crossroads after also being

admitted to Stanford, which
he ultimately chose. I had
grown up working toward
getting into Yale, he says.
But what was clear to me
was that Stanford is the
hub of digital economy, and
is strategically located in
Silicon Valley, surrounded by
all the great innovators. To
be so close to those resources
appealed to my passion for
techno-preneurship. While
excelling in his economics,
math, and physics subjects
and serving as managing
director of British School
Manilas entrepreneurship
club, Miguel also led the
schools basketball, football,
and rugby teams and
represented the Philippines
at the Under-18 Rugby 7s at
the Asian Youth Games. He
shares that hell continue
playing rugby in college, a
sport that has been played
since 1891 at Stanford, while
completing his degree in
management science and
engineering. I strive to be a
renaissance man.

Lucas Ramos, Mikaella

Evaristo, and Benny Adapon.

BEATRIZ GO

CHIARA BENITEZ

CORNELL UNIVERSITY
I think its too early for me
to tell what field I would like
to work in after university,
Chiara says honestly. But
hopefully Ill be able to find
a career that will allow
me to combine my love
for the arts with my love
for the life sciences. This
Beacon Academy graduate
will be considering her

102 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

options carefully when she

joins Cornell Universitys
freshman class. While her
role in the schools chorale
played a big part in her
high school experience and
taught her discipline, music
will not be one of them.
Im considering majoring in
some form of media studies
or biological sciences. I have
always been interested in the
way individual parts work in
conjunction with a greater

whole, whether in terms

of human expression and
communication in society, or
understanding the anatomy
and role of organisms.

MIGUEL AYALA

STANFORD UNIVERSITY
For most of his life, Miguel
had dreamt of attending
Yaleand, after receiving
his acceptance, he was sure
of his future plans. But he
soon found himself at a

UNIVERSITY OF
PENNSYLVANIA
Beatriz, who transferred to
BSM from the Immaculate
Conception Academy
for the last two years of
high school to take the
International Baccalaureate
Diploma program, is an
incoming freshman at the
Wharton School of Business,
where shell major in
marketing and operations
management. Beatriz was
president at both ICA and
BSMs entrepreneurship
clubs, during which she
headed projects to export
goods to various countries
and raise funds for victims
of Typhoon Yolanda and
received awards in leadership
and Best in Business as
a result. I chose a dual
concentration at Wharton
because it focuses on product

M A K E U P BY BY R O N V E L A S Q U E Z A N D J E S S A T E L LO F O R M . A . C . A N D PAT R I C K A LC O B E R F O R S H U U E M U R A . H A I R BY PAT T Y I N O J A L E S

MILLENNIAL
AND PROUD

development, which Im
really interested in, she says.
It will also complement my
intended minor in design. I
love art and business and I
am determined to engage in
them throughout my life.

LORENZO SIY

NORTHWESTERN
UNIVERSITY
Ive always had a fascination
with having things fit
together perfectly, whether
it was with numbers, games,
or even the arrangement
of the covers of my bed,
Lorenzo candidly shares.
The 17-year-old British
School Manila graduate
will be able to cultivate
his skills in design and
business applications at
Northwestern Universitys
McCormick School, where
hell study industrial
engineering. Lorenzo, a
Xavier School student up
until his sophomore year
in high school, enjoys
combining charity and
business endeavors, and
looks forward to pursuing
an entrepreneurial path
after university, much
like his parents. Drawing
inspiration from my own
father and other figures
such as Elon Musk and Peter
Thiel, the idea of building
a large enterprise through
developing an innovative
idea, delivering services, or
manufacturing a necessity is
something I definitely hope
to do in the future, he says.

CHRISTINE GOSIOCO

HARVARD UNIVERSITY
As president of International
School Manilas Cancer
Awareness and Funding
Association, Christine was part
of a team that raised money
to fund cancer treatment for
the underprivileged in Jeddah,
Saudi Arabia. No doubt shell
take that experience with
her when she enters Harvard
as an Economics major
minoring in Arabic. I was

at Harvard over the summer

and I went for a run at 5
a.m., expecting no one to be
around, Christine shares. Yet
I saw students everywhere
I ran. I chose Harvard
because its students come
from diverse backgrounds,
each of them with a story
to tell. A track and field
athlete, peer volunteer at
various community service
organizations, and member
of her schools National
Honor Society and Cum
Laude Society, Christine will
have stories of her own to
telland much to contribute
to Harvard.

LUCAS RAMOS

STANFORD UNIVERSITY
Like many of his peers, Lucas
knows that college is only
the first step to discovering
his lifes work, and he isnt
worried. I have always been
a student of technology,
but four years is a long
time away, he points out.
The job that I want may
not have been created yet.
I feel confident that once I
get through my four years
at Stanford, I will be well
equipped for whatever
opportunities I may be faced
with. The math enthusiast
has competed in the World
Robotics Olympiad in
Abu Dhabi, and represents
International School Manila
every year in Taipei, squaring
off against some of the best
high school-level robotics
teams across Asia. He
eventually became president
of the ISM Robotics Club,
even teaching young
children Robotics for Kids,
or R4K. Recently, Lucas, a
member of the varsity golf
team, received the Grade 12
Mathematics Department
Award, and was one of five
seniors given the Exemplary
Student Award.

MIKAELLA EVARISTO

NEW YORK UNIVERSITY

Though only 18, Mikaella is

both a dreamer and a doer,

having balanced establishing
an English tutoring center in
Muntinlupa (with the funding
of ManuLife) and writing as
a student correspondent for
the Philippine Daily Inquirer
while serving as editor in
chief of the Forward, Brent
International Schools student
publication, and captain of
the school choir. It will come
as a surprise to no one, then,
if she succeeds in following in
the footsteps of her personal
icon after finishing her
double degree in journalism
and biology at New York
University. I seek to emulate
the great Sheila Coronel and
voice the truth that needs to
be told in the world, shares
Mikaella. Since reading
Robert Frosts Stay Gold in the
7th grade, I have wanted to
emulate the way these writers
have captured emotion so
completely and accurately. I
have a passion for writing and
dream for my voice to be a
catalyst for change.

BENNY ADAPON

DARTMOUTH COLLEGE
Benny, the president of
his senior class at Brent
International School, is headed
to Dartmouth College in
the fall, where hell major in
either international relations
with a path to diplomacy, or
neuroscience as a pre-med
track. In high school, he took
on many responsibilities
as co-editor in chief of the
school publication, captain
of the Forensics team, and
president of the Green Earth
Ambassadors Club. But of
these he found that forensics
piqued much of his interest. I
come from a family of doctors
and pretty much grew up in
Makati Medical Center, so
the sciences have been a huge
part of my life, he shares. On
the other hand, I fell in love
with history, languages, and
my time with Model United
Nations. Im looking forward
to exploring things in college
and finding my niche while
Im there.

LIFE IN LEISURE
A CENTER OF LEISURE, WELLNESS, AND
activity, Alphalands The City Club is a carefully
mapped out destination for those seeking a
conveniently located respite.
The three-hectare members only club in Makatis
central business district features an extensive
range of offerings for every lifestyle need. Host
private events or meetings in any of the full-service
function rooms in the Clubs Business Center, or
savor their chefs' latest offerings in any of eight
specialty restaurants serving the worlds most
popular cuisines such as Thai, Chinese, Japanese,
Italian, and American. The Clubs fitness center is
particularly impressive, with a fully-equipped gym,
indoor courts for basketball, tennis, and squash
players, and a swimming pool. Thoughtful additions
include a spa, a high-definition mini-golf simulator,
a screening room, an indoor shooting range, a
boxing ring, and martial arts studios, as well as
fully outfitted game rooms. Ayala Avenue Extension,
Makati; for membership inquiries, call 846.6205;
cityclub.com.ph.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 103

TECHIE VELASQUEZ
Those you love will
always appear beautiful,
as it is in the eye of the
beholder. Being ageless is
an attitude. Its not
worrying about growing
old. Its being grateful
youre alive.
Just Cavalli top (price upon request), Rustans
Makati, 813.3739; John Hardy necklace and
rings (prices upon request), Rustans Silver
Vault Makati, 813.3739.
Makeup by Patrick Alcober for Shu Uemura. Hair
by Lourd Ramos for Creations Salon. Shot on
location at the Raffles Makati.

AGELESS
I

BY ALICIA COLBY SY
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JUN DE LEON
PRODUCED BY NICOLE LIMOS STYLED BY CAROLE CUASAY-TAGLE

t is hardly debatable that our society has a fascination with youthespecially

when it comes to women. From the time we are toddlers, females are more harshly
judged on appearance and looks than our male counterparts. In young adulthood
we are primed with the comforting proposition that while we cannot stop time,
our best recourse is acceptance, and with that, we are advised to age gracefully.

What we lose in physical beauty we are to gain in wisdom and perspective. And
really, who doesnt want to be wiser anyway? Every wrinkle that comes, they say, is
a hard-earned rite of passage; the unwanted folds and flab, badges of courage; and
our colonies of gray, a testament to a life fully lived. But as a woman in her mid-40s, I
must say that even at my ageits 46, by the wayIve been a bit confused. Okay, I
confess, a lot confused.
For as many essays and books I read about embracing my age and focusing on
the beauty from within that accompany my graying head and sagging body parts,
as I flip through the channels of my television or pages of magazines, I find that I
am bombarded with more ways and means than I can afford to keep myself looking
younger, more attractive, and dare I say, more desirable. I am not embarrassed to say
that at some point I have bought into them all. From the creams, serums, and masks
to the series of laser treatments that promise to erase all signs of decrepitude, I have
tried everything at least once, including the B word. Yes, Botox. I havent had any
surgery yet, but Im certainly keeping my options open.
As I write this, I have nine magic potions at my bedside that carry the fountain
of youth, and two appointments penned on the calendar for the latest technological
breakthrough that will set me back 10 years. Although I havent pinned all my hopes
on fillers and fixers, I am optimistic that when used properly, I will be able to stem
the tide for a few more years without ending up as another frozen face. The humor
in all of this is that people who know me wouldnt even consider me vain at all. I was
always the one with the good personality, if you know what I mean. I can now only
imagine how confounding this whole aging business is to women who are actually
used to looking good. Is it just me, or are all women today living in the constant fear
of actually looking their age?
I was having lunch recently with a young friend of mine. Beautiful, smart,
skinnyyou know the type. Its women like her who are the reason you and I are
glad that we are no longer a part of that 20-something pool. As I was sharing my
newest anti-aging strategy of the momenta combination of starving myself and
putting all my money toward a popular new treatment that works ten times better
and faster than the treatment I paid for three months agoshe nonchalantly told me
that I should just relax. All I really needed was to go to the gym, wash my face with
some good soap and water, moisturize, and always, always wear sunblock. Well, why I
hadnt I thought of that? If it were that simple, what have I been doing with my time
and money all these years?
I have never wanted to scream at someone more than I did at that very moment.
It just kills me when women who have won the genetic lottery seem to think that
women like meolder, who arent slim, and who dont have taut skin or uncreased
anythingare to blame in our own misfortune because we dont really try, or worse,
we dont have a clue. I was young once too, you know, and I do have half a brain,
were the words that didnt quite make it from my head to my tongue. Unfortunately,
no matter what I do, all of this (points to self) will never equate to all of that (points
to her). Ive accepted it, so should you.
But the conversation got me thinking. Did she really believe that a bar of soap and
a tube of sunblock were going to keep the aging boogeyman away? And didnt she
realize that I could Zumba all day long, but Ill never again have that spring in my step

like all the girls who position themselves in front of the mirror so they can see just
how fabulous they are? She must have been smoking something to think that these
few simple steps were all I needed. Maybe they were right. Maybe the two decades
I had on her did make me wiser after all. All of this was only distantly relevant to
her, anyway. She was clearly in denial, the way many women are when they are in
their 20s, about the prospect of getting old. Or was she? The confusion set in once
again. Here I was, that so-called confident older woman who had finally found her
voice and all this newfound perspective, but I was still bothered by what a woman
close to half my age thought about me and my beauty regimen. Was this what I was
supposed to celebrate? This argument in my head and this obsession with youth was
getting tiresome. And then, just like that, my moment of clarity came.
It was while standing in front of a mirror pulling out my gray hairs, as I often do,
when I finally understood my truth. I love the 46-year-old me, who I am, where I am.
I am much more interesting and creative than I was in my youth. Heck, I even find
my friends more interesting, too. At middle age we have never been more vibrant
or more relevant. Older women often complain about turning invisible as they
mature, but with the aging baby boomers ahead of us who have forced themselves
upon Madison Avenue to be recognized for who they areone of the most affluent
and important consumer populations that ever was in our historyor pop culture
figures like Madonna trailblazing her way through her 50s, changing the stereotype
of how older women should act, dress, think, and talk, things are looking upward for
women my age. Even Seventh Avenue and Hollywood have taken notice with their
frequent casting of beautiful aging women like Helen Mirren, Meryl Streep, Diane
Keaton, Iris Apfel, Carmen DellOrefice, and Linda Rodin.
Early this year, the ultra chic and painfully cool Parisian brand Cline debuted
its latest ad campaign with writer Joan Didion as its poster girl. In the much-talkedabout power image of the prolific 80-year-old author, in her oversized sunglasses and
black turtle neck, revealing all of her wrinkles, crevices, and age spots, she has not only
become the face of a fashion house, but the face of a generation saying, Old is the
new black, to everyone who ever thought otherwise, while giving them the finger. Is
it a marketing strategy and a means to an end? Absolutely. But Ill take it if it means
that it will slowly change the publics view of what it means to be an older woman.
And what did all of this tell me about of the two opposing messages of embracing
my age or defying it that I was having difficulty reconciling? Both ideas are mutually
exclusive and equally important. I have wanted to look better and to feel better and
be the best version of myself inside all my lifein my soap and sunblock only-using
20s and now in my retinol-proud and carb-averse 40s. Why should I stop now?
I suddenly realized that I do what I do not because I dont want to look as old as
Methuselah, but because at the core, maybe I am a little vain after all, and that isnt
such a bad thing. Its okay to care about how I look. I have since I was a young adult,
when I could count on a little moisturizer to do the trick. But it doesnt necessarily
undermine the power of my voice now that I need a little more help from a serum
or three. So have I found the secret to aging gracefully and looking good at the
same time? Of course not, because if I did, I would sell it to you and retire very, very
happily, but I will tell you what helps: Ignore all the noise and talking heads, especially
the ones in your head that tell you need to make a choice between the two.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 105

DOLORES PANLILIO
The key to being
ageless? Have friends
of all ages.
Natori caftan (price upon request), Rustans
Makati, 813.3739; Riqueza earrings and
ring (price upon request), Firma, Greenbelt
3, 757.4009; Arnel Papa cuff and bracelets
(prices upon request), Greenbelt 5.
Makeup by Patrick Alcober for Shu Uemura.
Hair by Lourd Ramos for Creations Salon.
Shot on location at the Raffles Makati.

106 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

JOY VIRATA
Beauty is a glow from
the inside. Forget to
count the years and
you become ageless.
Herms trenchcoat (price upon request),
Greenbelt 3, 757.8910.
Makeup by Patrick Alcober for Shu Uemura.
Hair by Ronnie and Marco for Creations by
Lourd Ramos. Shot on location at the
Dusit Thani Hotel.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 107

BABA TAADA
Beauty is a person or an
object that makes you
happy. Being ageless is
defined by the kind of
relationships you make
with people from
different generations.
Giambattista Valli top (price upon request),
Univers, One Rockwell, 869.3582; De Capricho
earrings and ring (prices upon request), Joya
Lofts & Towers, Rockwell Center, 846.8607.
Makeup by Byron Velasquez for M.A.C. Hair by
Mike Feliciano. Shot on location at the Raffles Makati.

108 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

PACHOT MAPA
What is timeless
and desirable
beyond physical
attributes is
beautiful. What
makes someone
ageless? I say the
youthful pursuit of
what is left of life.
Her own Gucci python jacket; De
Capricho earrings and necklace
(prices upon request), Joya Lofts &
Towers, Rockwell Center, 846.8607.
Makeup by Byron Velasquez for
M.A.C. Hair by Mike Feliciano.
Shot on location at the Raffles Makati.

CRISTINA TABORA

You stay curious, you

stay young. Age is a
number that is a measure
of curiosity. When you
cease to be curious, you
start to age.
Pillbox hat (P8,300), ac+632, Greenbelt
5, 758.2564; Jul B. Dizon earrings
(price upon request), The Peninsula
Manila, 887.2888 loc. 3540.
Makeup by Archibald Tolentino for Nars.
Hair by Mike Feliciano. Shot on location
at the Dusit Thani Hotel.

0 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

BELLA YUCHENGCO
Positive thinking and
happiness with oneself
will keep you beautiful
and ageless. Dont
sweat the small stuff.
Nicole Miller gown (P24,500), Rustans
Makati, 813.3739; her own earrings.
Makeup by Patrick Alcober for Shu Uemura.
Hair by Ronnie and Marco for Creations by
Lourd Ramos. Shot on location at the
Dusit Thani Hotel.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 111

TONI GREGORY
PALENZUELA

One has to forget that

age should necessarily
dictate how one should
live life to the fullest.
Making people happy is
the secret to ageless
beauty. Do not
postpone happiness
not for anyone, not for
yourself.
Makeup by Archibald Tolentino for Nars.
Hair by Mike Feliciano. Shot on location
at the Dusit Thani Hotel.

112 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

SONIA OLIVARES
Beauty is appreciated,
not defined. I am
ageless because I
continuously embrace
life and search for
answers with the
eagerness of a child.
Faux fox stole (P24,000), ac+632, Greenbelt
5, 758.2564; her own jewelry.
Makeup by Patrick Alcober for Shu Uemura.
Hair by Mike Feliciano. Shot on location at the
Dusit Thani Hotel.

ITS A
BEAUTIFUL LIFE

BY NICOLE LIMOS PHOTOGRAPHS BY LOUIE AGUINALDO

CREATIVE DIRECTION BY JP MENESES AND MARTIE PLAZA

Happiness is the secret to all beauty, Christian Dior once

said. We say beautiful women do not just happen. Most of the
time, they go through life filling it with the most moving of
experiences. Sometimes, that includes scouring through stores
for the perfect red lipstick. Life should look as good as it feels.
Welcome to this years beauty awards. We sifted through over
a thousand beauty products and narrowed those down to 118
that added a spring to our step.

Best of
BEAUTY
T&C

CHEEKS
1. Color Correct: Guerlain
Mtorites Compact
Light-Revealing Powder
The brands iconic Mtorites pearls
now come in a compact. This version,
as with the loose multicolor spheres,
corrects skin tone and eliminates
surface redness while giving the skin a
subtle glow.

2. Bronzer: The Balm

Bahama Mama bronzer
This is the perfect shade of brown that
makes us look like we really just got
back from the beach. And because its
matte, we also like using it as a contour
powder.
3. Long-wearing: Clinique
Cheek Pop in Peach Pop
This cream-powder formula lasts all
day and settles without the powder
residue.
4. Pigmented: Nars
Dual-Intensity blush in Panic
Dust lightly to get a rosy glow on the
apples of the cheeks or apply with
more intensity over the cheekbones for
a flattering contour.

8. Shimmer: M.A.C Sheertone

Shimmer Blush in Peachy Keen
Were fans of the Sheertone blush line
because its ultrafine powder blends
like cream and adds a veil of color
exactly where we want it. We were
overjoyed when the we discovered the
Sheertone Shimmer line, which works
like its predecessor but with flickering
particles that glow when the light hits.
Looks best when worn at night.
9. Contouring: Happy Skin Feeling
Sculptacular Face Contour Kit
This kit works for all skin tones with
a sculpting powder that can go from
sheer to opaque. Best of all, it comes
with a fail-proof guide for natural
contouring.

5. All-in-one: Nars Matte Multiple

Working as blush, lip color, and
contouring stick, this makes color
coordination in makeup so much
easier.

10. Dimension: Shiseido Face Color

Enhancing Trio in RS1
This favorite comes not just in three
colors but in different textures
too, which may be used as a blush,
highlighter, and contourer. We like
using it all together, though, because
it gives the face dimension and a
healthy-looking complexion.

6. Glow: Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek

Color Balm in Robust Rhubarb
This gel stick blush gives the most
natural-looking flush. We love it best
for the dewy effect.
7. Highlighter: Shu Uemura Satin
Radiant Stick in Bronze Gold
It works using one simple trick:
Apply it anywhere for a touch of
light. We use this creamy stick on
the brow bone, in the middle of our
forehead, just above the center of
our lips, and, of course, our cheeks.

11. Enhancer: Bobbi Brown Shimmer

Brick in Nude Glow
Swirl a brush over all five shades and
apply over the brow bone for a subtle
sheen or over blush for a slimming effect.

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HAIR
1. Styling Tool: Eva NYC Healthy Heat
Ceramic Styling Iron
An all-in-one that curls, straightens, and
creates waves on hair without damaging
it, thanks to its ceramic floating plates.
2. Strengthening: LOccitane Repairing
Mask and Repairing Shampoo
This anti-breakage duo uses five
essential oils and amino-acids from
plants to strengthen each hair strand.
3. Shine: Camille Albane Radiance
Shampoo with Guarana
This shampoo favors those with brown

hair, whether natural or colored,

for the shiniest effect even without
conditioner. Infused with guarana, a
tropical berry credited with helping hair
growth, this protects your tresses from
environmental aggressors.
4. Anti-aging: Krastase Densifique
Hair Youth Serum
Each hair strand gets thinner with
age, apart from losing color. The
newest in the Densifique line works
on protecting the melanin in our
hair to prevent it from turning white
and makes our strands denser,
stronger, and revitalized with its
innovative anti-oxidization complex,
stemoxydine, vitamins C and E,
ceramide, and UV protection.
5. Nourishment: Natura Siberica
Colored and Damaged Hair Shampoo
This protective shampoo features wild
Siberian herbs and oils that nourish the
hair while preventing color from fading.
Loaded with vitamins E and F, beta

carotene, Omega 3, 6, 7, 9, over 20

fatty acids, and 36 kinds of flavonoids,
this shampoo is a good daily habit.
6. Color Enhancer: Dessange
Radiance Mask
Colored hair needs the most
maintenance, and Dessange
understands that. This mask uses black
pearl extract, tamanu oil, and tara gum
to prevent fading, enhance color, and
smoothen locks in just one use. Apply
after shampoo.
7. Brush: Goody Finish Brush
For extra shine on hair worn down or
for flawless updos, we use this natural
boar bristle brush on blow-dried hair.
8. Comb: Acca Kappa 7220
Hair is weakest and most prone
to breakage when wet. This
wide-tooth comb glides easily
and ensures we dont subject our
strands to unnecessary pressure
after our shower.

9. Breakthrough: Tresemm Split

Repair Serum
There are serums that prevent split
ends but heres something that actually
binds them together, using the simple
but amazing logic of positively charged
ions binding with negatively charged
ones. The Split Repair line features this
Polyelectrolyte Complex that penetrates
the splits and holds them together once
dry. The result: smooth, split-free hair.
10. Frizz:OliodiArganAnti-FrizzSerum
Argan oil is all the buzz when it comes
to natural hair products. This serum
works as an all-around solution to frizz
and damage, providing a straightening
effect and protection from heat,
whether used on wet on dry hair.
11. Dryness: Keratina Phytorelax
Deep Reconstructor Mask
When our hair suffers from dryness due
to bleaching or heat-styling, we use this
liquid keratin- and sericin-infused cream for
immediate nourishment and hydration.

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SKINCARE
CLEANSERS

1. Breakthrough: Chanel
Le Blanc Makeup Remover
Brightening Tri-Phase
This gel dissolves our makeupfrom
the toughest waterproof mascaras and
eye colors to shimmer, glitter, and what
have youas we massage it over our
face and the gel formulation slowly turns
into oil. Just add water and it turns into
an emulsion, gently cleansing impurities
while leaving skin brighter and suppler
after rinsing, thanks to its two-year pearl
extract ingredient.
2. Rinse-free: Sisley Gentle
Makeup Remover
Even removing makeup can feel
luxurious. This cleansing lotion smells
wonderful, moving us to leisurely swipe
the cotton pad over our face the way
they do it at the spa. When used as a
toner, it cleanses our face thoroughly
and leaves it matte and hydrated. No
need to rinse it off, making it a bedside
must-have for late nights.

3. Multi-action: Este Lauder Perfectly

Clean Triple-Action
This three-in-one cleanser, toner, and
makeup remover made with botanicals
and minerals saves us time without
compromising the benefits of a multistep cleansing regimen.
4. Foam: La Prairie Foam Cleanser
Its creamy lather smells relaxing
and removes makeup and dead skin
without drying the face.
5. Acne-prone/Oily Skin:
ZO Medical Oilacleanse
When we are prone to breakouts, we
stick to an anti-acne regimen even
on great skin days. After using this
gel cleanser containing salicylic acid
and microbeads to decongest pores,
remove excess oil, and gently exfoliate,
our skin seemed to have magically
cleared up in less than a week.
6. Sensitive Skin: Mario Badescu
Skin Care Keratoplast Cream Soap
Soap-free and gentle, this cleanser
helps soothe the redness of sensitive skin
and broken capillaries with the help of
botanical extract Keratoplast. Ideal for
those with sensitive or dry skin.
7. Eyes: Makeup For Ever SensEyes
Theres no such thing as stubborn eye
makeup with this cleanser that specifically
tackles long-wearing mascaras while
being gentle on the skin around the eyes.

MASKS AND TONERS

8. Toner: Clinique Clarifying Lotion

Slough away flakes and thoroughly
remove dirt with just a few swipes of this
reformulated classic on a cotton pad
before applying your serum and cream.
9. Peel: Clarins Gentle Peeling
Smooth Away Cream
Thankfully, technology has allowed
many of us to get rid of dry and dead
skin without having to visibly peel.
This formula exfoliates and removes
impurities even from sensitive skin and
gives the skin an amazing glow after
rinsing with natural clay and primrose
extract as its star ingredients.
10. Emulsion: Shiseido Vital-Perfection
White Revitalizing Softener Enriched
This skin prep is best used after toner
and before serums and creams.
Softening lotions, which have a thin,
watery texture, work as a skin activator
to allow better absorption of the key
ingredients of the rest of your skincare
products.
11. Mask: Mario Badescu
Super Collagen Mask
Those with normal skin can use this
clay-based mask as often as thrice a
week, while those who have breakout
problems can use it once a week. It
tightens and cleanses the skin, while
collagen functions to hold water to keep
skin plump and moisturized.

SKIN CREAMS AND

SERUMS

12. Skin tone: Este Lauder

Nutritious Rosy Prism
This pomegranate nectar infusionpowered serum helps correct the
yellowish skin tone of Asians, and makes
for a rosy glow over time.
13. Breakthrough: La Prairie Anti-Aging
Rapid Response Booster
Its claim? This serum, released early this
year, is the brands most accelerated
wrinkle interceptor to date. The verdict?
Clinical tests reveal that fine lines and
deep wrinkles are reduced by 42 percent
after just two weeks of twice a day use.
This wrinkle-filling gel serum infused with
potent neuropeptides works because
of its unique delivery systemgoing
exactly where the skin needs it the most
and which areas it has to fill. Its herbal
brightening complex works on evening
out the skin tone, while plankton extracts
gently exfoliate dead skin cells for a
smoother surface.
14. Smoothening: NeoStrata Professional
Texture Perfecting Cream
Dermatologists have long been
harnessing the power of alpha hydroxy
acid (AHA) for wiping out acne,
smoothing out wrinkles, and dissolving
flakes and dry skin. This day and night
cream with glycolic acid does exactly
that, while providing moisture and being
ideal for first time AHA users.

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15. Firming: Kiehls Precision Lifting

and Pore-Tightening Concentrate
Fast-absorbing and non-sticky, this
serum infused with refined micro yeast
extracts reduces the appearance of
pores and gives skin an immediate lift,
making it firm and supple.
16. All-Around: Clinique Smart
Custom-Repair Serum
Its not always easy to tell what our
actual skin problems are. The special
thing about this power-packed serum is
that it does that job for usfiguring out
our skin needs and activating only the
ingredients that would specifically tackle
such problems once applied. And it does
solve practically every skin issue, from
inflammation, irritation, and dark spots
to uneven skin tone, sagging, wrinkles,
UV damage, and dryness.
17. Radiance: Shiseido BioPerformance Glow Revival Serum
This new serum is one of the few that
has allowed us to cheat our way into
looking like weve had eight hours of
sleep when weve actually been running
on caffeine. With tea tree, licorice, and
xylitol, this glow-creating serum targets
the skins capillaries to improve texture,
discoloration, and redness.
18. Dewiness: Shu Uemura Tsuya Skin
Youthful Bouncy-Fine Cream
It first seems like a cream too rich for
those with oily or combination skin, but

once it settles, expect immediate softness,

dewiness, and glow. It works great even in
combination with anti-acne medications
from your dermatologist. The best thing
about it is that its made to be a great
base for makeup and foundation.
19. Oily Skin: Clarins Hydraquench
Cream-Gel
Our tropical climate wreaks havoc on
oily skin especially with the humidity and
heat that make it look greasy instead
of glowing. But even oily skin needs
moisture to function and look its best.
This non-oily gel delivers moisture with
a cooling effect while fighting shine and
protecting the skin from pollution.
20. Irritation/Post-treatment: Bioderma
Cicabio Soothing Repairing Cream
Usually prescribed by dermatologists
after laser treatments and peels,
Cicabio cream is known to repair
damaged epidermis, relieve redness
and irritation, and moisturize the
skin. This cream also protects the
skin from bacteria and infection
and improves texture with zinc and
hyaluronic acid.

SPOT CORRECTORS

21. Spot Prevention: Neoretin Discrom

Control Serum Booster Fluid
When were prone to pigmentation,
whether from acne or the sun, heres
something that controls the skins
melanin production at all levels and

helps lighten existing marks through its

Retinsphere technology and Whitening
Booster system. It invisibly exfoliates
the skin until the marks are gone.

the heart of the skins cells,

instantly tackling puffiness, and
over time, reduces wrinkles and
dark under-eye circles.

22. Brightening: Este Lauder

Crescent White Full Cycle
Brightening Spot Correcting Essence
Recommended for applying all over
the face, this corrector works harder
on hyperpigmentation using its Light
Cycle Complex while making the skin
fairer and more translucent.

26. Dark Circles: La Mer Eye

Concentrate
With this updated classic, no
one will ever figure weve been
up all night catching up on
Downton Abbeythis eye cream
uses hematite to dispel surface
discolorations and visibly reduce
the appearance of dark circles.

23. Stubborn Spots: Sisley PhytoBlanc Intensive Dark Spot Corrector

This contains rhubarb extract that gets
delivered deeply into discolorations,
freckles, and sun spots and uses a
cooling metal roller ball tip for precise
application. When used twice a day,
the intensity and size of dark spots are
reduced after around four weeks.

EYE CREAMS

24. Moisture: Mario Badescu Skin

Care Ceramide Herbal Eye Cream
This super hydrator uses vitamin C,
antioxidants, soothing ceramide, and
other herbal extracts to moisturize as
soon as we apply and tackle our skins
dryness cycle for the long haul.
25. Puffiness: LOccitane Immortelle
Divine Eyes
Once applied, this creamy gels plantderived ingredients penetrate into

27. Breakthrough: La Prairie

Cellular Eye Essence Platinum Rare
If theres kryptonite for wrinkles
and crows feet, it would have
to be peptides or retinol. But
retinol breaks down when
exposed to sunlight, so when we
want an eye treatment that can
work for both day and night,
we use a peptide-rich formula
like this innovative serum by La
Prairie, whose star ingredient
is a powerful platinum tetrapeptide. Scientists at the brand
found that platinum works in
synergy with peptides for firming
the skin and reducing wrinkles
while protecting these peptides
from being destroyed by the
skins natural enzymes, making
the essence work longer and at
its optimum.

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BODY
1. Slimming/Cellulite: Clarins
Body Shaping Cream
The 2015 version of the body shaping
cream can go even deeper into the
skin targeting all the important layers
from the epidermis to the cellulite
and fat layers. With daily use, it helps
reduce cellulite and slim the body as it
relies on its caffeine content to contour
the skin.
2. Hand and Body: Aromatherapy
Mega Moisturizing Hand and
Body Lotion
This contains natural plant extracts,
shea butter, vitamin E, and no
synthetic colors or parabens to work
as a non-greasy moisturizer with a
wonderful fragrance reminding us

of an orange milkshake. A great

harmony of scent and hydration.
3. Oil: Hei Poa Monoi
1000 Flowers Body Oil
A liter of this all-around hair, body,
and hand oil took a thousand flowers
to make, including hibiscus, ylangylang, and more for super moisture
and a dewy glow. We like using it as a
massage oilno rinsing required.
4. Shower Gel: Clarins Tonic Bath and
Shower Concentrate
This shower gel makes us want to
extend our baths with its aromatic
fragrance of rosemary, rosewood,
mint, and geranium. A capful
poured in warm tub of water
goes a long way because it is a
concentrate, meant to tone and
cleanse the skin. In the shower,
we just use a pea-sized amount,
foamed using a sponge.
5. Night Cream: Murad Firming
Peptide Body Treatment
The popular skincare brand now
delves into bodycare products that
are meant to deliver the same anti-

aging benefits of its bestsellers. Its

first line, the Murad Youth Builder,
includes this treatment that starts
out as a cream before dissolving
into light oil (which is why we like
using it as an evening regimen). It
contains powerful peptides that
firms and improves the texture of
the skin.
6. Tanning: TanOrganic Self
Tanning Oil
Now we can get our bronze on
without the subjecting ourselves to
harmful UV rays and bad burns. With
this certified organic self-tanning oil,
all we need to do is apply the oil evenly
all over the body (no gloves required)
and wait. Notice a sun-kissed glow in
six hours.
7. Day Cream: Murad Collagen
Support Body Cream
Rich but not heavy, this collageninfused cream provides moisture
for 24 hours without becoming
sticky or greasy even when we
spend the day outdoors. It also
helps smoothen out lines and body
imperfections.

8. Bath Salt: Natura Siberica

Active Organics Bath Salt
This bath soak leaves skin squeaky
clean and more elastic with Siberian
ginseng and other essential oils,
while filling the air with a sensual
but clean aroma.
9. Exfoliating: LOccitane Exfoliating
and Smoothing Delicious Paste
If heaven had a scent, it would
probably smell like this almondtapioca-butter-cream paste. This
special exfoliating product blends
almond butter and almond oil to
soften the skin and uses crushed
almond shells and sugar crystals
to buff away flakes and reveal a
radiant complexion.
10. Serum: LOccitane
Youthful Body Velvet Serum
This new anti-aging concentrate
features almond tree native cells
and vitamin C to reverse body
skin aging, inspired by the brands
potent face care products. After
two weeks of twice daily use, we
noticed firmer skin with less visible
sunspots and scars.

Best of
BEAUTY
T&C

BASE
FOUNDATIONS

1. Tinted: Nars Pure

Radiant Tinted Moisturizer
For days when we dont want too
many product layers on our skin, this
lightening, brightening, smoothening,
oil-free tinted moisturizer substitutes
for serum, cream, foundation, and
sunscreen. It has SPF 30, mineral-rich
seawater, and other naturally derived
ingredients for a clearer complexion
after a months use.
2. Breakthrough: La Mer The
Reparative Skin Tint
Instantly and over time, this new tint
that comes in five shades perfects
the complexion like a photography
apps healing brush tool. Infused with
the brands signature Miracle Broth
found in most of its anti-aging lines,
it reduces fine lines and pore size
while its pigments cover the skin with
an airbrush makeup-like finish. With
SPF30 and lime tea extracts, it also
provides ample protection from UV
rays and pollution.
3. Anti-aging: Sisley All-Day Long
Flawless Skincare Foundation
A lot of women are afraid of using
foundation because of the possibility
of breaking out. Heres one from
the renowned skincare brand that
addresses such fears with an oilfree, non-comedogenic formula
rich in gingko biloba, cucumber, and
frangipani blossom extracts that
prevent dryness and clogged pores.

7. Everyday: Bobbi Brown

Brightening Powder
This oil-absorbing pressed powder
contains SPF 25 and provides light
to medium coverage. It settles matte
but doesnt give the skin a dry feeling,
making it a good powder sunscreen
for everyday use.

It provides natural medium coverage

that lasts 12 hours even on oily skin.
4. Full-coverage/Weightless:
Nars All-Day Luminous
Weightless Foundation
After 20 years in the business of
makeup, the brand comes up with
a full-coverage foundation for the
first time. We waited for the right
momentthe formula really had to
be perfect, says founder Franois
Nars. True enough, what it lacked in
promptness, it made up for in superb
quality. This could be the lightest yet
most pigmented oil-free foundation
out there that looks natural on the
face, a.k.a a much awaited gift to
(wo)mankind. Its consistency is similar
to milk, which settles on the skin
like skin itself, and provides highcoverageerasing marks, dark spots,
and undereye circles with just one
drop. As for staying power, its also a
winner with a natural hold for up to
16 hours. Use a moisturizer in case of
dry skin.

8. Oily Skin: Laura Mercier Smooth

Focus Pressed Setting Powder
Worn by itself or over liquid
foundation, this white powder controls
shine and sets skin for over half a day.
Its a great retouch product.
9. Coverage: Shu Uemura
The Lightbulb UV Compact
Foundation
This compact provides coverage like no
other powder foundation, thanks to its
cream-like texture. Best of all, as with
the rest in the Lightbulb line, it makes
the skin look flawless under all kinds of
lighting, from fluorescents to yellows.

TINTED BALMS

10. BB Cream: Este Lauder

Crescent White BB Cream SPF50
It takes a lot of work to infuse a high
SPF in BB cream (most come with 15 to
25), and this one makes the record with
SPF50. As an anti-aging balm, it works
on both lightening and preventing dark
spots. And with its decent coverage of
buildable medium to high and a built-in
brightening balm as a bonus, it is a great
alternative to foundation.

5. Dry Skin: M.A.C Mineralize

Moisture Foundation
Our pick for those with flaky
skin (whether in general or due
to peeling treatments) and for
use in cold climates is this thick
foundation that covers every
imperfection. Its consistency is
moisturizing and rich, making it
ideal for all skin texturessmooth
skin will glow, while wrinkled skin
will look filled. It wont ever cake
with its natural satin finish.

11. CC Cream: Smashbox

Camera Ready CC Cream
This skin tone corrector acts not just on
the overall complexion but on acne scars
and sun spots. It applies light with a demimatte, glowy finish for everyday use.

POWDERS

6. Mineral: Jane Iredale Powder-Me

SPF Day Sunscreen
This superfine loose mineral powder is
best applied on a moisturized face or
body for its SPF and pigments to hold.
It provides sheer coverage and may be
used even when swimming because of
its water-resistant formulation.

PRIMERS

12. Breakthrough: Tizo2 AgeDefying Fusion

Our favorite primer, which is actually
a hard-working SPF 50 sunscreen,

also comes in a non-tinted version

for those with lighter skin or for
those who dont like to look like
theyre wearing makeup with their
sunscreen. Its silky, matte, and natural
finish makes putting on sunblock
pleasurable, especially since it allows
our makeup to hold better and longer.
Many dermatologists recommend
this because its mineral molecules are
purified enough to just settle on top of
our skin and not get absorbed, leaving
no room for clogging even if we put
makeup over it.
13. Long-wearing: Benefit Stay
Flawless 15-Hour Primer
This is our primer pick for those
attending lengthy events (such as
weddings) because with it, we dont
need a touch-up till the wee hours.
Unlike other primers that end with
a powdery texture, this stick makes
the skin feel plump and moist. Our
foundation and eye shadow stay on
longer than its 15-hour claim.
14. Perfecting: Make Up For Ever Step
1 Skin Equalizer Smoothing Primer
Its important to apply primer
before foundation or makeup
because of two things: First, it
gives makeup a better hold and
finish, and second and most
importantly, acts as a barrier onto
which makeup attaches (and not
directly into the skin), allowing
less possibility of irritation and
quicker makeup removal. This Skin
Equalizer line comes in 10 formulas
addressing different skin concerns
in texture and tone.
15. Anti-shine: M.A.C Skin
Refined Zone Treatment
This refines pores and wrinkles
just before makeup, and when we
apply this serum-like treatment
over the T-zone after foundation,
we forget we even have oily-prone
skin areas.

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EYES
EYELINERS

1. Duo: Este Lauder Little Black

Liner in 01 Onyx
An eyeliner that draws as precisely
as a pen. This dual-tipped favorite
features a thin/thick end and an
ultra-fine one for versatile looks,
making it as essential in our kit as our
Little Black Dress in our closet.
2. Blendable: Clinique Quickliner in
02 Intense Plum
This automatic pen smoothly glides

and comes with a smudging end

for blending accurate strokes and
shading. Works well even on top of
eyeshadow and stays all day.

features a rubber end for converting

its shimmery strokes into instant eye
shadow. Comes in a pack of five
metallic colors.

3. Colored: Stila Stay All Day

Eyeliner in Cobalt
Offering bright to classic colors, this
waterproof wonder dries to a matte
finish and features a tip that can
create thin and thick strokes, best for
winged eye looks.

6. Smoky: Prestige Velvety Smoky

Eye Pencil in 01 Black
We dont have to be pros to achieve
the subtly smudged under-eye of the
smoky look with this pen that comes
with a smudging tip. The quick-dry
formulation ensures we dont oversmear the black kohl for the perfect
smoky-powder effect that lasts 12
hours.

4. Liquid: Artdeco High Precision

Liquid Liner 01
The secret to its ultra-slim brush
are the fine fibers that comprise
itallowing flexibility and precision in
application.
5. Gel: Browhaus Heavy Duty
Bi-Liner
Allowing the smoothest glide,
this incredibly creamy gel eyeliner

EYEBROWS

end features our favorite eyebrow

powder for fading out the ends
near the nose just like a pro.
8. Crayon: Smashbox Brow
Tech To Go Crayon and Gel in
Brunette C539
This waterproof, retractable angled
pencil perfectly fills the eyebrows
without the annoying sticky build
up, thanks to its triangular tip and
buildable formulation. As a bonus,
it includes a clear gel brow brush
applicator on one end to keep
every strand in place.
9. Blonde: Maybelline 24H
Coloring Mascara 1 Yellow Brown
This eyebrow mascara provides
just the right amount of yellow
gold tint to match all shades
of blonde hair. Best of all, its
ball tip brush ensures you never
over-apply.

7. Pencil: K-Palette Lasting

2-Way Eyebrow Pencil
Were fans of the brands popular
2-Way liquid formulation, and we
equally love its new eyebrow pencil,
which is wonderfully pigmented to
give depth to our brows. Its other

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MASCARAS

10. Duo: Happy Skin Eye Love View

Double Duty Eyebrow Duo
This pencil and marker can fit
from light brown to nearly black,
depending on the pressure put
in application, making it a great
option for those who have light
brown to dark hair or those who
like to change hair color every so
often. We love its liquid marker tip
the best, allowing us to shape our
arch precisely and draw strands
where we lack.

12. Volumizing: Este Lauder

Double Wear Extreme
With its wand tip half the length of most
mascaras, this reaches even the tiniest
of your lashes while separating each of
them for full volume with zero clumps
and smudge.
13. Smoky: Make Up For Ever
Waterproof Aqua Smoky
Lash Extra Black Mascara
No smoky eye is ever complete without
intensely pigmented lashes, and here
is where this new waterproof version
comes to the rescue. When it says extra
black it really means it, delivering
dramatically dark and volumized lashes
with just one coat.

11. Tint: M.A.C Pro Longwear

Waterproof Brow Set
Brown Ebony B14
Because filling in our eyebrows can
never be enough when our actual
hair strands are black. This brown
ebony tint will match most brown
pencil shades for the most natural
looking, Cara Delevingne-like
eyebrows.

14. Breakthrough: Happy Skin

Eye Am the Only One
Holy Grail Mascara
This innovative volumizing and

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lengthening mascara allows us to

both fake itwith black fibers that
attach to our actual lashes when
we swipeand make itwith a
formulation which lengthens our
lashes and stimulates hair growth.
Wed never gotten so many eyelash
compliments till we started using this.
15. Curling: Clinique Lash Power
Volumizing Mascara
We love it for its curling effect, made
possible by its slim wand that reaches
the eyelash roots easily and adds
volume with every swipe for the dolleyed look. Best of all, it lasts all day
through tears, rain, and sweat.
16. Waterproof: M.A.C Haute and
Naughty Waterproof Lash
The only waterproof mascara we like
absolutely doesnt leave residue after
cleansing our facelike this wonderful
mascara which comes with two wands.

Use the top one for natural definition

or the bottom wand for full-on
dimension and drama.

EYE SHADOWS

17. Single: Este Lauder Eye

Amplifier in Black Silver
This product can amplify the eye all
right. We were blown away by how it
can create a smoky gradient in less than
a minute and how it sets smoothly and
without creasing or caking even after
an entire day. For best application, use
the contouring brush.
18. Crayon: Clinique Chubby
Stick Shadow Tint for
Eyes in Massive Midnight
This super-blendable eyeshadow
is perfect for creating controlled
color coats over the lids. Its the
perfect alternative to powder eye
shadow when we only want a wash
of color, but can last us all day
without a retouch.
19. Stick: Make Up For Ever
Aqua Matic Glide On
Eye Shadow in D-21
For intense pigment and precise
application (for winged eyes or blocked
looks), go for this waterproof eye color
stick that glides smoothly and settles
without smudging even if you layer it
on top of powder eye shadow.

16

13

20. Colored: Sisley Phyto Eye Twist

in 5 Lagoon
The kind of blue eye shadow that
wont ever make us look like Madonna
in the 80s. This sophisticated blue is
buildable, blendable, and water- and
smudge-proof.

19

21. Cream: Shiseido

Shimmering Eye Color Cream
This super sheer, crease-free cream is
best applied using our fingertips or a
flat brush. The shimmer comes in just
the right amount to make the eyes
sparkle in the day.

18

22. Multiple: Chanel 5 Eye

Shadow Palette
Featuring five shades of shimmering
cream-powder eye shadows, this
palette of vintage gold, silver, rich
grays, and dazzling black inspired by
Coco Chanels original fine jewelry
collection may just be everything
our eyes will ever need for a
sophisticated evening.

21

17
20

23. Breakthrough: Prestige

Makeup Eraser Pen
Want to perfect the winged eye
look? Use this magic eraser to
remove excess eyeliner or eye
shadow easily with just a swipe.
Its real-life Photoshop.

Best of
BEAUTY
T&C

LIPS
1. Flattering: Este Lauder
Pure Color Envy in
Rebellious Rose 420
Not too bright, not too dark, this
hydrating shade of red matches well
with both cool and warm skintones.

4. Natural: Shiseido
Veiled Rouge in RD302
For a lipstick thats glossy and
glides as smoothly as this, it comes
as surprise that its long-wearing.
It also locks in color with its
transfer-resistant technology, so
go ahead and drink from the glass.

8. Cream: Lancme LAbsolu

Velours in 493
Its a winner for its super comfortable
velvet matte finish, but what makes
it a keeper is its cream texture that
gives full coverage and allows it to
perfectly blend with the other colors
in its range.

5. Balm: LOccitane Ultra Rich

Lip Balm
Intensively hydrating, this shea
butter-rich colorless stick smells like
a dream.

9. Breakthrough:
Make Up For Ever Aqua Rouge
Waterproof Lip Color
Having a lipstick that stays on the
way it was first applied even after
three cups of coffee, a sandwich,
eight hours at the office, and
throughout wine night sounds
like the stuff of womens dreams.
This amazing liquid lip color isnt
just waterproofit dries matte,
its transfer-free, and it holds
until we decide to take it off with
a hardworking makeup remover.
If we need a bit of dimension, it
comes with a gloss on the
other end of the tube. We
want it in all 12 shades.

6. Light: Shu Uemura

Laque Supreme
We love this best for the flexible
and fine film it leaves on our lips
unlike most glosses that are sticky
and require a re-touch every 20
minutes.

2. Sheer: Sisley Lipstick

in Sheer Berry 18
Its like lip gloss in stick form, but it
lasts longer and heals like a balm.
3. Dark: M.A.C Lipstick in
Quelle Surprise
The shade can apply light or may
be layered to get the darkest hue.
It may also be blended with our
favorite red to get that wine red
shade for a night out.

7. Plumping: Dior Addict

Gloss Eclipse
Plumps the lips for a good half a
day and even if its gloss fades, its
glitter wont.

10. Shimmer: Shiseido Maquillage

in RD742
A shimmer stick, lip balm, and color
tint in one.
11. Everyday: Guerlain KissKiss
in Excessive Rose 361
Packed with intense pigments, this
2015 version of the classic KissKiss
line is reformulated to help plump
the lips using hyaluronic acid and
smoothen it out with essential oils.
12. Tinted Balm: Clinique Chubby
Stick Baby Tint in AC3
This hydrating color balm will
always be a favorite especially on
days we like to take a break from
matte colors but still want a wash
of youthful tint and dewiness on
our lips.

1
4
2

11
10

8
7
6

12

Best of
BEAUTY
T&C

FRAGRANCE

7
6

1. Oriental classic: Chanel Coco Mademoiselle | 2. Woody Amber: Herms Eau des Merveilles | 3. Candy Floral: Tommy Hilfiger Tommy Girl | 4. Garden Floral: Historiae
Hameau de la Reine Marie Antoinette | 5. Powdery: LOccitane Iris Bleu & Iris Blanc | 6. Sparkling Light Floral: Philosophy Loveswept | 7. Citrus Vanilla: Acca Kappa
Vaniglia | 8. Fruity and Sweet: Marc Jacobs Pink Honey Edition | 9. Spicy, Salty, and Woody: Bulgari Aqva Divina

DIRECTORY

Este Lauder, Clinique, Bobbi Brown, La Mer, M.A.C, Stila, Sisley, Chanel, Mario Badescu, Clarins, La Prairie, Dessange, Camille Albane, Acca Kappa, LOccitane,
Murad, Nars, Jane Iredale, Laura Mercier, Historiae, Guerlain, Shu Uemura, Rustans Makati, 813.3739; Shangri-La Plaza, 633.4636; Alabang Town Center, 850.5532.
Kiehls, Greenbelt 5, 728.9561. Krastase, at leading salons. Maybelline, Tresemm, Goody, at leading department stores. Lancme, Greenbelt 5, 729.9394. Shiseido,
Greenbelt 5, 729.9853; Power Plant Mall, 898.1615. Philosophy, SM Mega Fashion Hall; Glorietta 4. Tommy Hilfiger, Marc Jacobs, Bulgari, at leading department stores.
Dior, Greenbelt 5; SM Makati. ArtDeco, Prestige, Happy Skin, Smashbox, K-Palette, Keratina, Olio di Argan, Hei Poa, TanOrganic, Natura Siberica, Aromatherapy,
The Balm, Eva NYC, Beauty Bar, Greenbelt 5, 757.5028; Power Plant Mall, 898.2042; Alabang Town Center, 842.8350. Neoretin, Bioderma, NeoStrata, at leading
dermatologists clinics nationwide. ZO Medical, Belo Medical Group clinics nationwide. TiZO2, The Skin Inc., Paseo de Magallanes, Makati. Browhaus, Greenbelt 5, 501.3998;
Serendra, 901.0597. Make Up Forever, SM Mega Fashion Hall. Herms, Greenbelt 3, 757.8910.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 123

WHERE MORE

124 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

IS MORE

When he was
just a teen, HUTTON
WILKINSON
became the righthand man of
maximalist designer
TONY DUQUETTE,
eventually taking
over the late legends
business and his
jewel-box Beverly
Hills home. He then
built his own house
next dooran
homage to Duquettes
love of the lavish.
BY PILAR VILADAS
PHOTOGRAPHS BY
MAX VADUKUL

INTO THE BLUE

Ruth Wilkinsons dressing

room features wallpaper
based on two paintings by
Elizabeth Duquette.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 125

WHEN
T H E D E S I G N E R H U T TO N W I L K I N S O N

was in the seventh grade, he saw an

article in the Home magazine of the Los
Angeles Times about Tony Duquette, the
wildly imaginative artist and designer of
everything from film sets (for director
Vincente Minnelli) to costumes (for the
original production of Camelot, which
earned him a Tony) to over-the-top interiors
for such clients as Mary Pickford and Doris
Duke. Hutton devoured the story, with its
photos of Duquette in his studio, seated on
a throne from Mexicos Chapultepec Palace,
and of his artist wife Elizabeth, and told his
architect father, This is what Im interested
in. The elder Wilkinson looked up from his
newspaper and replied, I think youre 100
percent crazy.

Undeterred, the younger Wilkinson

nurtured his obsession with Duquette, and in
1970 he left school, at the age of 17, to work
for the designer, eventually becoming his
business partner. Having bought 50 percent
of the business five years before Duquettes
death, at 85 in 1999, Wilkinson now runs
his mentors design studio, which produces
jewelry, fabrics, lighting, furniture, and dinnerware. Wilkinson also has his own business,
which in addition to interiors produces
collections of costume jewelry, bedding, and
home furnishings sold through the Home
Shopping Network.
He is Duquettes spiritual and aesthetic
heir, sharing a fondness for color, pattern,
and historical influences, from Baroque to
Balinese. But for Wilkinson and his wife
Ruth, upholding the Duquettes glamorous
Old Hollywood way of life is just as
important, so in 2001 they bought and
preserved Dawnridge, the ornately decorated

3,000-square-foot house set on a hillside in

a three-acre canyon in Beverly Hills where
the Duquettes gave frequent black-tie parties.
(They had bought the land in 1949 for $1,500.)
And three years ago the Wilkinsons built a
house for themselves next door, overlooking
Dawnridges magical, jungle-like garden. It
might even outdo its legendary neighbor in
party house perfection.
Its kind of one-room living, Wilkinson
says, only somewhat tongue-in-cheek. The
three-level, 4,000-square-foot house has quite
a few roomsa dining room, a media room,
a library, and three bedrooms (currently
configured as a master bedroom with
generous his-and-hers dressing rooms)but
the core of the house is the soaring, 20-foothigh drawing room, which opens onto a
terrace with an infinity pool. Architecturally,
the room is modern, but the coral-red walls
inset with gold leaf panels, the leopard-print
carpet, and the zebra-pattern silk velvet
upholstery (not to mention the
17th-century Venetian oil paintings,
the 18th-century French armchairs,
or the seven-and-a-half-foot-tall
blackamoors) add a layer of luxe that
recalls a more gracious time.
A dramatic curved staircase
leads to the second-level dining
room and library; the houses
formal entrance is also here, as well
as doors that open onto another
garden. In the dining room an
oval table (You cant give a bad
dinner party at an oval table,
says Wilkinson) is surrounded by
18th-century Venetian chairs; teak
screens carved in India filter the
light coming in through the southfacing windows. This room is just

TWIN PEAKS

The jewel-box drawing room

of Tony Duquettes house
Wilkinsons inspiration. Opposite:
The drawing room in the
Wilkinsons house, next door. The
Asia Major curtain fabric and
Royal Ermine silk on two of the
armchairs and pillows are from the
Tony Duquette Collection, designed
by Wilkinson for Jim Thompson
Fabrics.

126 | T OW N & C O U N T R Y

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 127

LUSH LAGOON

Wilkinson redesigned
part of Duquettes
garden, adding the lake
and the pavilion, which
was built from parts
of a Thai house. Left:
Duquette in 1999.

BERLINER STUDIO/BEIMAGES (DUQUETTE)

Sometimes we
have cocktails at
our house, and then
we walk through
the garden to Tonys
and have dinner
outdoors. We can
have 60 for dinner,
and an orchestra,
and Balinese dancers.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 129

one of several dinner party venues. As Wilkinson explains,

Sometimes we have cocktails at our house, and then we walk
through the garden to Tonys and have dinner outdoors. We
can have 60 for dinner, and an orchestra, and Balinese dancers.
Or we can do the opposite. The library, meanwhile, is filled
with references to Wilkinsons mothers aristocratic Bolivian
roots, including an 18th-century portrait of King Charles
III of Spain that had been stolen from Wilkinsons mother
and that Wilkinson happened upon in the inventory of an
antiques dealer in La Paz. Im always buying things back, he
saysnot unlike Duquette, a champion accumulator. Indeed,
you would need a scorecard to track the provenance of the
items that have appeared and reappeared in their decorating
projects. My whole life is creative visualization, Wilkinson
adds. When something comes to you, you have to grab it.
On the top level, which is set back from the lower two as if
it had been added later, like a little penthouse on the roof, the
master bedroom is flanked
by the couples dressing
rooms. His has zebra-pattern
GOLD RUSH
From top: A view through
carpeting and a steel and
the Wilkinson master
gilt-bronze desk, while
bedroom; the dining room.
hers is lined with fanciful
Opposite: Wilkinson designed
the chandeliers, by Remains
pale blue wallpaper that
Lighting, that illuminate
Wilkinson made by enlarging
his houses grand staircase.
two paintings by Elizabeth
Duquette (better known
as Beegle, Tonys nickname
for her) that he bought at
auction.
Although the Wilkinsons
house channels the more-ismore spirit of Dawnridge,
it does so without using the
inexpensive materials that
Duquettean infamous
glue gun wizardcheerfully
mingled with opulent
furniture and art. Duquette
called his other L.A. house,
a ranch in Malibu, a cross
between Tobacco Road and
San Simeon, but you wont
find any hubcaps or plastic
serving baskets incorporated
into the decor chez Hutton
and Ruth. I think Im a little
more commercial, and more
organized, Wilkinson says.
What he and his mentor
share, quite obviously, is a
love of qualitythe joy, the
adventure, and the search for
really interesting stuff.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5 | 131

August 2015

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AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

ORO
HOROSCOPES
By Katharine Merlin

Mars enters your sign on the 8th, bringing

your focus to bear on ambitious plans.
Youll be able to accomplish much and
successfully pursue your own ends, but
confusing choices, especially concerning
finances, confront you near the 6th and
26th. With Jupiter exiting your sign, its
time to pare down expenses and be more
conservative. Venus in retreat also means
that perplexing romantic issues demand a
wait-and-see approach.
VIRGO August 24September 23

What does it mean that jaunty Jupiter is

entering your sign and kicking off a new
cycle? Is it time to splurge a little and
indulge yourself ? Mars in Leo indicates
that youll benefit by giving yourself a
break this August, and you appear to have
much to ponder regarding your future
direction. Various concerns will lift near
the 22nd, and close relationships will take
a positive turn at months end.
LIBRA September 24October 23

Even more than others, youre likely to be

affected by Venuss backward motion this
month, especially since its occurring in the
part of your chart related to associations
and new environments. Keep your options
open, and dont let anyone pressure you
into premature decisions; confusing aspects
indicate that youre getting mixed signals
all around. Much will be revealed as August
draws to a close.
SCORPIO October 24November 22

Saturn turns direct in your sign on the 2nd,

and leftover issues from 2014 will finally
untangle. Financially, its time to take
stock and tighten your grip. On the other
hand, Mars in Leo emboldens you to make
your presence felt, while Jupiter entering
your most social angle initiates a period
of expanding options. With Venus out of
sync in your career angle, youre best off
gracefully waiting out any delays.
SAGITTARIUS November 23December 21

With the Sun in Virgo, August is favorable

for getaways. And Jupiter is headed
toward your mid-heaven, so this is a time

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

when what you need is the

perspective that distance
can provide. New
possibilities are about
to shift your world,
and with Saturn on
return to your birth
sign, youre going
to strike a new
balance between
work obligations
and personal ones.
Meanwhile, take a
needed break.
CAPRICORN December 22

January 20

ARIES March 21April 20

The Sun in Leo highlights

the most creative and
playful part of your
chart for much of
August, and with
Mars and Venus also
in Leo, entertainment
and relationships
with children appear
to be in the spotlight.
Financially, youll be
getting the message that
you need to be a bit more
prudent and cut expenses.
BIRTHSTONE: PE R IDOT With Jupiter entering Virgo,
Damiani Springtime
you also appear to be on the
necklace with diamonds,
brink of a new and more
peridots, sapphires, and
gratifying phase at work.
tourmalines (price upon

August will be a decisive

month for Capricorns.
request), Rustans Silver
Saturns direct motion on the
Vault Makati, 813.3739.
2nd clarifies your choices,
TAURUS April 21May 21
and you appear ready to take
With numerous planets concontrol. Issues involving finances are likely
gregating at the base of your chart, there
to remain unresolved until September,
may be lifestyle or domestic changes in the
but there doesnt appear to be cause for
wind that ultimately result in more fulfillconcern despite all the mixed signals. And
ment. And though romance may be a bit bewith Jupiter firing up your travel angle
wildering until Venus changes direction in
at midmonth, the time has come to think
early September, you still shouldnt hesitate
about spreading your wings.
to follow your heart. Whats more, Jupiter
is going to be spotlighting your myriad
AQUARIUS January 21February 19
creative talents.
Saturns direct motion at the top of
GEMINI May 22June 21
your chart on the 2nd means youre at
August is likely to be an active period; if
a professional turning point that will
youre not in transit youll still cover a lot of
reward hard work or send you down
ground. Venus out of phase in Leo may stir
a new path. Its follow-through time
up unease about an unresolved issue involving
for long-considered decisions, and
family or friends, but just try to wait out any
with your relationship angle occupied
issues that arise. Mercury in harmony with
by both Mars and retrograde Venus,
Pluto on the 23rd indicates that new financial
theres a lot going on in your private
arrangements will strengthen your position,
life that isnt likely to bring clarity
and property affairs look unusually favorable
before Venus turns direct in September.
at months end.
PISCES February 20March 20

With Jupiter entering Virgo this month

for a yearlong stay, relationships will be
on an upward trend. Marss entrance into
your work angle intensifies your desire to
press for results, but with Venus moving
backward at the same time, some aspects
of your plans will be in a state of limbo
until early September. Remain open to
others suggestions; they may be more on
target than you think.

T&C 134

CANCER June 22July 22

Youre moving from a high pressure period

into one thats more relaxedif not outright
lazybut you appear to be focused on
finances and acquisitions this month. Mars
in Leo indicates that youre right to be more
aggressive about new arrangements. The
period near the 15th is full of promise where
agreements and partnerships are concerned.
Dont hesitate to shoot for the stars.

P H O T O G R A P H S C O U R T E S Y O F R U S T A N S S I LV E R V A U LT

LEO July 23August 23

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GIVING

August 2015

Founded in 2012, the Ruth

Foundation empowers the
aged and the sick through
palliative care.

HE LAUGHTER EXERCISE (OR THE USE OF INTENTIONAL

laughter to loosen lung secretions and increase lung

expansion) is a technique used by the Ruth Foundation for
patients facing what they term as their golden hours. The
foundations focus is on the often difficult transition between
life and death, with the goal of helping to make end of life
transitions smoother, more peaceful, and hopefully, a more
joyful experience altogether.
The Ruth Foundation is unique in the sense that we still find
hope in what most people would call hopeless situations. When
the hospital sends patients back home, during their final days
or months, thats when we assist them, says Mikee Pasaporte,
a former hemodialysis nurse and the Ruth Foundations special
projects manager. During this special transition, when cure
is not feasible, thats when care becomes top priority. Other
practices of the Ruth Foundation include Art for Optimum
Health (which uses art forms like painting, scrapbooking,
origami, and the like to rejuvenate the mind), Massage and

Touch Therapy, Music Infusion (the use of

music to calm the soul), and the Happy Room
Project (in which nurses and coordinators give a
patients room a happy makeover), and Spiritual
Care. Says Edmar Elcarte, a volunteer nurse at
the foundation, Weve learned that patients
must be treated holistically. Communication and
the utilizing the art of touch are also very important.
Pasaporte, who recently left her former professions in the
medical and hotel industries to take part in what she calls the
most fulfilling chapter of her career thus far, says that caring
for the dying has, interestingly enough, given her renewed
perspective on life. Working at the Ruth Foundation changes
your outlook. My eyes have been cleared from the taboo on
thoughts of death and I have seen that once true care is given,
dignity is restored and hope becomes a reality. Instead of
thoughts on death and dying, thoughts on truly living have
stirred my personal life, she shares.
As a nonstock, nonprofit organization, the Ruth Foundations
operations depend on the generosity of its benefactors. With
many of its patients from indigenous parts of the country, the
foundation often shoulders their needs for laboratory tests
and medications, among others. The Ruth Foundation welcomes
volunteers and sponsors, as well as donations in cash or in kind.
ruth.ph; hope@ruth.ph; 808.6079.

By M A R I A M I L A G R O S G . A G U S T I N E S

AU G U S T 2 0 1 5

T&C 136

P H OTO G R A P H S BY S K I P N A L L/ CO R B I S A N D CO U RT E SY O F T H E

Golden
HOURS

R U T H F O U N D AT I O N

OLDER
AND WISER
Below: Volunteers
of the Ruth
Foundation tend to
sick elderly patients.

INSPIRING

ENGAGING

IGNITING

W W W. S U M M I T M E D I A .CO M . P H