Green Footprints Movement: Make this planet a better and clean place for our future generations to come

In this year's age and time with the climate change, global warming, extinction of endangered species, depletion of ozone layer, increase in air pollution are few of the effects from which our environment is suffering.  

How can we make this planet a better and clean place for our future generations to come? There are ways to conserve energy and it all starts with you, be the change that you can be and Mother Nature will thank you for it along with your grandchildren and future generations to come.

A simple task such as turning off the lights when not in used, will make a lot of difference, not to mention your parents will thank you for it.

In line with its thrust to drive the conversation about climate change, leading airconditioning and refrigeration solutions provider Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC),through its subsidiary Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company (CCAC),has launched the Green Footprints Movement, its advocacy that seeks to galvanize the general public into action towards reducing their environment footprint.

“As the most encompassing environmental issue facing us today, climate change must be everyone’s agenda” said CIC Chief Executive Officer Raul Joseph Concepcion.“For CIC, we aim to strengthen our commitment to a sustainable future by driving greater awareness and understanding of climate change and global warming among consumers and other stakeholders, and enabling access to green choices that will enable consumers to reduce their environmental footprint.”

CCAC’s Green Footprints Movement serves as a clarion call to the public to become green advocates.

“We want the public to be able to connect their everyday actions and decisions with its environmental impact,” shared Harold Pernikar, Jr., CCAC Director and Head of the Consumer Solutions Group.  “This consciousness, we believe, will lead them to make environmental impact an important consideration and value in everything they do or use.”  

Central to the Green Footprints Movement is creating awareness through consumer education, with the campaign focused on making information on environmental impact reduction available to a wider audience.

“Our goal is to provide the public with the knowledge of how they can make small, practical changes that will have significant effect on their own footprints, such as the responsible use of electricity and even making more sensible selections when it comes to the products they use in their homes,” said Pernikar.

The Green Footprints Movement is a testament to CIC’s long-standing commitment to the environment, having led its industry in exercising responsible stewardship by employing best green practices and conducting their operations in a manner that safeguards the environment.

“Environmental health and safety is and has always been a key core value of CIC, and this is evident in the way we manage our business,” stated Concepcion, who noted how the company has leveraged on technology to create green facilities.“A crucial first step is cultivating a culture of sustainability within the company itself, which is why we have always been mindful of our own environmental impact, looking at our own performance in terms of recycling, water and waste consumption, and setting goals to reduce our footprint year after year.” 

Concepcion Industrial Corp., through its subsidiary Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Co. (CCAC), takes its commitment to the environment a stepfurther by launching the Green Footprints Movement,an advocacy campaign that seeks to galvanize the general public into action towards reducing their environment footprint. Event attendees include (from left to right)Manila Fashion Observer blogger Christine Dychiao;Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) Assistant Director Dr. Eva S. Ocfemia;celebrity host and World Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature-Philippines National Ambassador Marc Nelson; Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC)Chief Executive OfficerRaul Joseph A. Concepcion,  Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC) Executive Vice President for Business Development Rafael C. Hechanova, Jr., and Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company (CCAC) Director and Head of Consumer Solutions Group Harold Pernikar, Jr.




CCAC also recognizes that the public must have greater access to environment-friendly products so that they can make greener choices.It was the first Philippine manufacturer to convert its refrigerators to use environment-friendly refrigerants back in 1995, and is once again leading the industry for its air conditioning solutions.

“Ninety-six percent of our air conditioning products have already been converted to using environmentally responsive refrigerants, and we expect to make a 100% product conversion within the year,” said Pernikar, who also shared that the switch is being made ahead of the global deadlines set by the Montreal Protocol, which established a timeline for the eventual elimination of ozone-depleting substances. 

“Part of the private sector’s responsibility goes beyond compliance with standards and regulations -- it’s in rising to the challenge of offering practical, green products through constant innovation and investment,” Pernikar added.

By enabling the public to become more aware that each and every action they make today can have lasting effects on the planet’s future, CIC and CCAC aspire to empower the public to make smarter and greener choices. “As we enjoin people to commit to reducing their collective environmental footprint through the Green Footprints Movement,” said Concepcion,"we believe we can create a significant impact towards creating a better, safer environment for the next generations.”#

Philam Life and BPI-Philam to give living benefits “like never before” with Philam Vitality

For the first time in the Philippines, insurance products will give living benefits “like never before” with a science-backed and global wellness programme, Philam Vitality.

Philam Life launched Philam Vitality last year, and is now also available through BPI-Philam.
Life insurance premiums with Philam Vitality can now get an upfront discount of 10-15%. This is
unprecedented in the Philippines.

Vitality is a global brand with close to 20 years of success spanning South Africa, United States,
Europe, China, Hong Kong and Australia. Now it is available, through Philam Vitality, to Filipinos who would like to go beyond traditional insurance products.

“With Philam Vitality, insurance becomes strongly relevant to our policy holders every day. It is there when they make daily choices: what to eat, how they can improve their health, what exercise to do today, what vacations to plan for, to name a few,” says Philam Life chief executive officer Axel Bromley.

Beyond protection, investment and savings, Philam Vitality pushes the bar and gives day-to-day living benefits that reward members for being healthy. It is a programme that recognizes people’s healthy behaviors worldwide.

“Our mission is to empower Filipinos to achieve financial security and prosperity. To achieve this,
health should not get in the way. People want to be healthy. However, they don’t always act on it. This programme gives amazing tools to help even the most unfit and unhealthy person to start on his
Philam Vitality journey,” continues Bromley.

Philam Vitality gives easier access to basic health check so members will watch out for their health
status, like their updated cholesterol and sugar levels. The programme has partnered with industry
leaders Makati Medical Center and Hi-Precision Diagnostics for discounts to basic and some
advanced screens. Its exclusive dental partner, Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center (GAOC),
likewise provides significant discounts for basic dental assessments.

To keep improving their health, members are given exclusive discounts to Gold’s Gym, Toby’s Sports
and renowned fitness device brands, Garmin and Polar. Smokers can also take advantage of a special
package for Smoking Cessation at the Makati Medical Center.

Each time a member takes the screens and does healthy activities, Philam Vitality Points are awarded.
The points add up to allow a member to reach a higher status for higher benefits, starting from Bronze to Silver, Gold and Platinum.

Intelligent incentives were designed to reward members for taking steps to be healthier. These
rewards come from partners like SM Cinema, Seda Hotels, Marriott and Enchanted Kingdom.
All these partner branches and establishments are located in over 180 locations all over the Philippines, giving a great chance of access to members for their benefits.

“The rewards one can get from the Philam Vitality programme are astounding. From the insurance
premium discount to all the partner benefits, a member can see that insurance is now more and more
relevant. We’re excited that Philam Vitality is now available to our BPI-Philam customers. We hope it
will encourage them to sign-up as members to take advantage of the benefits and live healthier and
happier lives,” says BPI-Philam chief executive officer Aibee Cantos.

Q&A with Carmen Brias, painter and sculptor

Carmen Brias will be unveiling her latest works in painting and sculpture on March 3 in an exhibit titled “In A New Light” at Altro Mondo, Greenbelt 5, Makati City. Since her last Philippine exhibit in 2009 with her mother, the distinguished portraitist Betsy Westendorp, Brias has been full-force harvesting inspiration and credentials in Madrid, where she is based.

What have you been up to since your last visit to the Philippines? 

Aside from painting regularly in my studio and experimenting with different techniques, I attended drawing classes at the Universidad Complutense. But after two years, I decided that drawing is not my thing although it is a very good exercise for anybody who paints, especially as a restorer.

I also started a sculpture group with my friend and teacher Eduardo Mazariegos who taught me all I need to know about wood carving. For a few years, I carved almost every day. We started working with pine logs and later tried other kinds of wood. We had pupils who worked in the garden with us, and during winter, we would dress up as though we were going to ski in the mountains. Wood carving is not easy but seeing the finished form after much hard work gives me a lot of satisfaction.

I’ve also been spending a lot of time with my family. I love horse riding with my daughter Carla, who is now in her second year in university. Whenever we needed respite from the city, my partner Jorge and I go to a little country house in Segovia, which is an hour’s drive from Madrid. I have two dogs which I enjoy walking in the park near our home. I also exercise by playing tennis regularly.

I also participate in reunions with former asumptionistas who went to the Assumption Convent in Manila and are now living in Madrid. We have an annual fundraising fair where we sell Filipino food and have games, lottery and activities for children. The funds and donations go to a children’s school in Malibay, Pasay. Madrileños love coming to our fairs because it is lively and a lot of fun compared to other fairs in Madrid.

How has living in Madrid influenced your art?

I keep up with the art happenings in Madrid by visiting as many exhibits and fairs as I can, and watching movies and visiting the theater.

However, as an artist, my soul is Filipino. Most of the inspiration for my art comes from my childhood in Manila. I remember spending hours observing tadpoles in the garden, which at first were white or light yellow eggs, then little swimming tadpoles before finally becoming frogs. That was my real life lesson in “evolution”. Also, the typhoons that visit the country has always made me wonder what happened to everything after they’re gone. How can nature be so cruel? What is its message for us? And why are people who have next to nothing more creative and kind?

What is the theme of your exhibit?

The theme of my exhibit will focus on the relationship between Spain and the Philippines, from my perspective as an artist. I chose this theme because, first of all, I love this country, it has given me so much. There is a lot of sense of humor here, too, which can also be found in my art. I have been very lucky to be born and raised as a child here.

At the same time, I also love Spain and would love for the Spaniards to know more about the Philippines. They are far away geographically but Spain and the Philippines have a past that has bound them together and both have influenced each other’s culture.

“In A New Light” is the name of the exhibit because colors are imperative in my paintings, especially bright colors. For me, color is as much of a language as music or form. Colors are born when the light of the sun penetrates the earth, so the color of green is made when the sky and the sun get together. I have been in the middle of colors all my life; they are a part of me.

What new things can we expect from your art?

Each one of my paintings is different, so each work is always new. Although they say that every artist always ends up doing the same painting, I can’t relate to that. I suppose what you can expect from my new works is more experience and humanity.

I have introduced new materials such as plastic, pigments, acrylics, and a synthetic resin to make the painting look transparent and shiny. Sometimes I add elements in the painting through pasting but lately, I must confess, I am becoming more of a ‘purist’; the less addition, the better. As artists, we sometimes have a destructive attitude towards art, and even to ourselves, which can manifest in “destroying” work that is already finished by adding unnecessary elements.

Why did you decide to exhibit once again in the Philippines?

Because Manila is my home. I was born here and went to school here. A great part of my father’s family lives here. The stories I grew up listening to include those about my grandfather during the Second World War living in Manila. My childhood memories are all set in the Philippines, like spending holidays at the beach in Matabungkay with cousins and visiting islands like Hermana Mayor and Pamalican in Palawan. I remember taking pictures at the Banawe rice terraces with portraitist Butch Baluyot.

Also because the opportunity to exhibit in a well-known gallery such as Altro Mondo is something I cannot refuse. I am very lucky to be here.

How did living in the Philippines shape you as an artist?

Being close to nature and the animal world growing up, I became sensitive to nature’s vibrations, of what is “unseen”, as in The Little Prince, “What is essential is invisible to the eye.” I feel that the Philippines is placed strategically in a certain part of the word where energy vibrates in a different way; everything is more creative and always moving.

From my childhood memories, one of the most beautiful spots in Manila was located in front of Manila Bay. Our family used to live in an apartment at the Excelsior and we would rent a bangka at sunset and cruise around the huts where the fishermen lived. There is such magical beauty in these places, the way the houses are built and stood on stilts over the water and how the fishermen lived. Always there is air going through these houses, and they looked fragile. But at the same time, they are strong like bamboo. My mother painted a lot of these fishermen’s houses.

Who are your current artistic influences?

I think Miquel Barcelo is outstanding for his creation of a new and unique personal style. His inspiration and works take guts!

I adore the Flemish painters; I recently saw Van der Weiden at the Prado and it is perfect. I love Rousseau, Van Gogh, the Impressionists. I love Fernando Zobel’s paintings and of course, I admire Betsy Westendorp, who fortunately happens to be my mother.

Where have you exhibited your works previously?

1979: Group Show at the Centro Cultural de la Villa de Madrid.
1985: Group Show of Paintings Dedicated to the Animal World in Caja Madrid.
1992: Individual Exhibit with Filipino Furniture in Sotogrande.
1993: Group Show in Taller Arte G in Madrid.
1994: Group Show in Flecha 94, Madrid.
1995: Group Show of Mini Paintings at the Association for Sculptors and Painters in Madrid.
1995: Group Show of Filipino Painters in Spain at the Casa de America in Madrid.
1998: Solo Show at the Ayala Museum in Manila.
1998: Solo Show at the Crucible Gallery in Manila.
1999: Group Show at the M&R Gallery in Madrid.
2001: Solo Show at The Club Financiero de Madrid.
2004: Joint Exhibit with Isabel martinez Bordiu at the Colegio Santa Maria de los Rosales in Madrid.
2008: Solo Show at Archie in Madrid.
2009: Joint Exhibit with Betsy Westendorp at the Ayala Museum in Manila.
2010: Group Show dedicated to the Prado Museum with Filipino Painters in Manila.
2012: Joint Exhibit with Eduardo Mazariegos at the Centro Cultural de Aravaca.
2013: Group Show with the Association for Sculptors and Painters at the Vaguada Cultural Center in Madrid.

Apart from that I have worked as an assistant to photographer Eduardo Seca at the Ayala Museum for his book titled M'ai, which I enjoyed very much and also acted in Repertory Philippines in “Sound of Music” as Sister Sophia,  and in a comedy “Let's Get a Divorce”.

Zack Snyder pits the Dark Knight against the Man of Steel in "Dawn of Justice"

Certified fanboy and acclaimed director Zack Snyder pits the Dark Knight against the Man of Steel in a Super Hero face-off for the ages, in Warner Bros. Pictures' new epic, action-adventure, “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.” The film stars Oscar winner Ben Affleck as Batman/Bruce Wayne and Henry Cavill as Superman/Clark Kent.

To Snyder, Batman versus Superman is the Holy Grail of Super Hero showdowns. But to do it justice means orchestrating the collision of not just these seminal characters but the worlds and mythologies that come with them into one sprawling cinematic universe.

The film's official synopsis reads: Fearing the actions of a god-like Super Hero left unchecked, Gotham City’s own formidable, forceful vigilante takes on Metropolis’s most revered, modern-day savior, while the world wrestles with what sort of hero it really needs. And with Batman and Superman at war with one another, a new threat quickly arises, putting mankind in greater danger than it’s ever known before.

The epic story he’s telling with this film emerged as a provocative idea while he and producers Charles Roven and Deborah Snyder were brainstorming during production on 2013's “Man of Steel.” “We were talking about what could be Superman’s challenge for the next movie,” the director recalls. “[In Man of Steel], a giant spaceship comes from space and tries to terraform the Earth. How do you raise the emotional stakes higher than the destruction of the planet? At one point I asked, ‘Well, what if Batman was the bad guy?’ And once you say that out loud, there’s no going back.”

Once the prospect was out there, however, the gauntlet was thrown. “As the audience, you think, ‘How the hell are they going to fight?’” Snyder laughs. “And I agree! They can’t fight. But if you can line up the Super Hero chess moves just right, clearly you can figure it out. That’s the fun part – figuring out not only how but why they fight.”

In Snyder’s view, their monumental clash is “an easy fire to stoke.” In contrast to Batman’s 20 years hunting down the worst of Gotham’s worst, Superman, he details, “has a much more straightforward view of right and wrong. He can take the moral high ground because he hasn’t gone through the process of losing his innocence, as Batman has. He still believes in the system, and, as you can imagine, doesn’t look kindly on someone he believes is acting as judge, jury and executioner in a vigilante position.”

Batman’s rough style of justice has divided the public and alienated him from the Gotham Police Department. But underneath the armor, he’s still a human being. Unlike Superman. “We know Superman as this amazingly benevolent and kind individual, but you can see how his powers would be pretty scary for someone like Batman,” Snyder offers. “The potential for abuse would be staggering. Human rights violations could go on big time and no one could stop him.”

Opening across the Philippines in 3D, 2D, and IMAX 3D theaters on Black Saturday, March 26, “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

Honour From Opportunity: A Scholar’s Journey

John Daryl Pitcheller, a Civil Engineering student from Adamson University here in Manila,was recently given the honour of presenting his ground-breaking research on PVC Waste at the International Conference on the Environmental Quality Concern (EQC)in the National Kaohsiung Marine University, Taiwan.

In his presentation,entitled Waste Polyvinyl Chloride as Tensile Reinforcement to Asphalt Pavement, John Daryl proposed that instead of throwing away waste PVC materials, these should be recycled and used as an additive to asphalt to improve the tensile strength of pavements.

The conference panel, and delegates—from all over South East Asia—were impressed. Meanwhile John Daryl came back to the Philippines carrying new knowledge and experiences, not to mention new ambitions.

"I was inspired to make a difference.”said John Daryl.

A recent university graduate, before attending Adamson University, John Daryl was a beneficiary of a British School Manila run scholarship programme which he views as being instrumental in giving him a chance to pursue his studies.

“The British Education Inc.'s Scholarship Programme (BEI), run by volunteers from the British School Manila (BSM),really opens the door to a lot of opportunities to students like me,” he said.

BSM usually only supports scholars until they graduate college, but the school will often go one step further if they see an opportunity for one of their scholars to shine.

"I did not know that the BEI programme would continue to support me attending this international event,” John said.

“I was in my final semester when the conference took place and I had actually already graduated [last March 2015]. So I had little hope that Mr. Egan would approve my request,because this was not initially part of the contract. But eureka – the trip was all expenses paid!”

The ‘Mr. Egan’ that John refers to is the Vice Chair of the British School Manila Board of Governors, Mr Brendan Egan, who along with a handful of local staff volunteers from BSM run the BEI Scholarship Programme. The initiative, which is 100% funded by the British School Manila helps graduate students fromTaguig's public schools reach their dream of graduating college,through the provision of a full scholarship to the college and course of their choice.

“ABEI scholarship covers full tuition for any specified course, at any specified college in Metro Manila,” said Mr. Egan when questioned. “All necessary books are paid for upon presentation of an official receipt, as is any required uniform.  An allowance is also provided for snacks and transportation,” he continued.

John Daryl received the BEI scholarship after a rigorous selection process managed by volunteer staff from BSM.

Volunteers from the school, such as Erwin Adevoso help candidates through the pre-screening process. "To get on the short list and be interviewed by the Committee, candidates are selected based on their credentials," says Erwin. "But we also want these young people to be able to communicate well with us."  Erwin continues, "This is where I get involved, sitting down with each one, in an effort to calm their nerves and help them feel comfortable and ready to share their personal stories and why they need the scholarship, in some detail."

Before being accepted onto the BEI scholarship programme, John Daryl was hesitant to continue his tertiary education studies, as he was concerned about his parents' financial ability to send him to the college of his choice. He is an only child, but his parents also provide financial assistance to other relatives in the family.

John said, "When I was chosen for the BEI scholarship programme, it was a big help since it provided for everything. So I didn't have to do anything, except study. I just had to do my best." 

The BEI scholarship also entitled him to be given a fully-equipped desktop PC, so he did not have to rent computers to work on school requirements.

“It’s more than manna from heaven, because it isn't just a grant that comes to you monthly,” he said, recalling how the scholarship influenced his life. “I hope that BEI Inc. and the British School Manila will continue this kind of support for their scholars because it can impact them in ways a four-walled classroom can never do."

John Daryl graduated with Academic Merit last year, and recently passed the Civil Engineering Board Exams. He is currently happily employed.

Goldilocks prepares a variety of meals for the Lenten Season

Choices for Lenten Diners

Lent is a time for reflection and penance. Catholics all around the Philippines practice the Lenten tradition of sacrificing something important to them, may it be something as big as quitting a bad habit or simple as not eating junk food. A common practice during lent is abstaining from eating meat and choosing alternatives such as seafood and vegetables.

Pork and beef dishes in the menus of most restaurants, leaving Lenten abstainers with very few choices whenever they choose to eat out.

To give more options to hungry abstainers, Goldilocks, the country’s number one bakeshop, launched a variety of meals made especially for the Lenten season. Treat your taste buds to the savoury goodness of RELLENONG BANGUS, SARAPINOY GISADONG MONGGO with DAING NA BANGUS, and BANGUS BELLY SINIGANG. All come with a serving of steaming white rice for as low as PhP105.

Grab the seasonal meals at any Goldilocks branch nationwide.

For more information, you may also follow Goldilocks on Twitter or Instagram at @GoldilocksPH, on the Goldilocks Facebook page, or at the official Goldilocks website at www.goldilocks.com.ph

Get to know the Sea Princess and her 29 Designers

If the Mad Hatter was going to be cast as a female there's no doubt that Tessa Prieto Valdes would probably do it effortlessly. The woman of a thousand headress literally and figuratively.  She doesnt just add color to an event because of her outfit,  but also because of her outlook and personality. Because admit or not, she is the life of the party.  I guess the most normal time Ive ever saw her was at the Watson's event looking like a normal person.where she proudly wore the Watsons uniform, http://lemongreenteaph.blogspot.com/2016/02/switch-and-save-at-watsons-and-get.html and changed her headdress three times for that event alone.
An event would not be complete without Ms. Tessa Prieto Valdes  famous headdresses and flamboyant outfits at the scene.

At the recent event,  celebrating women’s month this March alongside their 30th anniversary, SM Megamall presents Wildflower: A Fashion Retrospective on style icon Tessa Rufino Prieto-Valdes. Amidst all the minimalist fashion trending, one woman dares to stand out. Like wildflowers that come in varied species and kinds, the exhibit portrays women from all walks of life. Through each of her dresses, we share a vibrant story worth telling.

Tessa Rufino Prieto-Valdes

Also known as the Sea Princess, Tessa is a Sunday lifestyle columnist in the Philippine Daily Inquirer and manages her own site; www.tessaprietovaldes.com. Tessa is a socialite-philanthropist known for her sophisticated style, extravagant accessories, and colorful personality. She has been featured in lifestyle magazines and is ever-present in grand events. She also busies herself with the different charities she supports, spending weekends in Balesin, raiding shopping centers, and playing Barbie with different designers.

Wildflower: An Exhibition of dresses by Manila’s top designers

As we walk through the Sea Princess’ whimsical wardrobe collection, we are introduced to an aspect of Tessa Prieto-Valdes that is essential to her personality -- her imaginative fashion. The exhibit likens Tessa as a wildflower, colorful, flamboyant, and diverse. Beauty is a natural thing whether in simplicity or extravagance. And as we trace back to the most organic form of inspiration -- nature -- through Tessa’s wardrobe, we are introduced to some of Manila’s top designers that Tessa Prieto-Valdes champions.

The Wildflower: A Fashion Retrospective exhibit will run from March 8-18, 2016 at the Mega Fashion Hall.

The Designers

Albert Andrada returns to the Philippines after 20 years designing luxurious garments for royalty in the Middle East. He was referred to as “Asia’s Most Connected Designer” with works of very flowing, feminine, and definitely dramatic. He takes inspiration from his mother whom he refers to as “a very fashionable lady.”

Ivarluski “Ivar” Aseron is an innovative fashion designer whose collections have been featured abroad, including Malaysia and Indonesia. Ivar is known for his ability to masterfully fuse movement with structure, classic with current, and feminine with a dash of gentleman as seen in his geometric style which includes a surprise of softness that creates slim silhouettes, clean lines, and unexpected details.

Pablo Cabahug specializes in body conscious and tailored formal wear for men and women. His work has been featured in Philippine Fashion Week a couple of times and has been recognized as one of the top collections with his trademark design being classic silhouettes. He won the Look of Style Awards back in 2010 which gave him the opportunity to study fashion design and marketing at the prestigious Central Saint Martins College of Arts and Design.

Michael Cinco is an international fashion designer who was born in Samar and is currently based in Dubai. Michael studied at Slim’s Fashion and Arts School in the early 1990’s and proceeded to study in London and Paris halfway through his career. His collections were featured in Miami, New York, Dubai, and Manila and he has been designing for Gulf Arab royals for years. His works boasts of lavishly elaborate couture with detailed embellishments that sparkle with crystal beading, opulent lace, and lush textures. Michael won Breakthrough Designer of 2011 at the WGSN Global Fashion Awards in New York and is the first Filipino designer to be featured on “America’s Next Top Model.”

Maureen Disini is known for her simple cuts and wedding gowns. She was trained in Milan’s Istituto di Moda Burgo in 2009, where she earned a diploma in Stilista di Moda (Fashion Design and Patternmaking). Maureen’s aesthetic is classic, simple, easy and feminine which tend to embrace tradition and forego trends. She customizes her pieces through the fabrics she chooses that are ideal to the personality and character of her clientele.

Rhett Eala has become one of the country’s prominent design icons. He first showcased his talent as an in-house fashion designer in Rustan’s where he was offered to design his first label entitled, “Due by Rhett Eala,” a fashion line for kids. Over the years, his line grew and matured into a more sophisticated line for women and he exemplifies this in his position as the current Art Director of Plains and Prints.

Ronald Enrico is a Cebu-based designer who specializes in custom-made formal wear. He is renowned for his delicate details, fabric manipulation, clean finish, and flattering cuts. Ronald’s workmanship attracts much needed attention through weaving flamboyant and gaudy combinations of tulle, chiffon, and taffeta in his pieces.

Jun Escario started from Cebu and eventually grew to cater international design works where he is renowned for his bridal and evening garments. With gracefulness and elegance in his pieces, his works have reached the London Philippine Fashion Show in 2012.

Rocky Gathercole is well-known for his experimental, unpredictable, and whimsical creations. He came from humble beginnings but with passion and perseverance, paved himself a vibrant fashion career. Gathercole has been a designer in the United Arab Emirates for more than two decades. His definition of wearable is still enigmatic to those that cannot comprehend fashion’s form of self-expression, which to his advantage appealed to Arab women.

Rajo Laurel began his career in 1993 and soon founded House of Laurel in 2000. Trained in New York Fashion Institute of Technology and Central Saint Martin’s in London, he has represented the Philippines locally and internationally throughout the years and has received countless awards for fashion design and entrepreneurship. His works display his signature beading on romantic and luxurious gowns. His articles are a combination of rigid and mellow elements that creates a modern and feminine workmanship which makes his pieces well defined.

Monique Lhuillier is one of America’s foremost designers sought after by many celebrities locally and internationally. She is renowned for her designs that capture the essence of sophisticated luxury by provoking femininity, allure, and glamour. Her ready-to-wear, accessories, and bridal collections embody her innate sense of style.

Francis Libiran is an A-list designer who has garnered success locally and internationally. His work has been featured in numerous shows, some of which include the fashion gala at Manila Hotel during its centennial celebration, the first Canada Philippine Fashion Week, and the annual fashion show in Tokyo, Japan. He is also the designer behind the winning gown worn by Megan Young in Miss World 2013.

Jojie Lloren is a Pateros-based multi-awarded and considered as one of the most respected fashion designer. He graduated with a degree in Clothing Technology in University of the Philippines Diliman and gained training from Ecoles de Chambre Syndicale dela Couture Parisiennce in Paris. After many years in the industry, he continued to gain fame as a resident mentor at a Filipino rendition of a renowned TV-series “Project Runway.” Jojie’s style prioritizes comfort among all other constituents of good dressing.

Dennis Lustico creates works with styles of geometry and femininity. Usually for events and social functions, his garments feature a certain gleam of sophistication yet is still practical and easy to wear especially for women who are always on-the-go.

Pablo Mendez started teaching after graduating from Slims in the 1990s. Since then, he has won many awards including the grand prize for Philippine Fashion Designer Competition in 2007. While he has achieved many awards, he still returned to Slim’s to teach part-time despite his duties as a designer.

Lesley Mobo graduated with an Honors Degree in Fashion at Central St. Martin’s in 2002 after moving out of the Philippines to study Fashion in London. His career started soon after at Jasmine Di Milo, a newly established brand, and was soon after promoted to Head Designer in 2003. Lesley showed passion and persevered in his field garnering him multiple local and international collaborations with numerous brands  and features in several books and publications. Lesley’s craft entail edgy, structural elements with sophisticated soft, feminine twists that appeal to young elite Europeans. His pieces are fun and flirty despite residing on the conservative side of ball gowns, asymmetrical dresses, and pant suits.

Josie Natori is an award winning, foreign-fashion CEO and founder of The Natori Company Inc. It houses Natori, a global brand that started out with a lingerie line and later on expanded to a lifestyle brand. Natori received multiple awards some of which include Fashion Group International’s Humanitarian Award, and the Lakandula Award last 2007.

Eric Pineda is a costume and fashion designer credited for his outstanding design works for theater plays, a period soap opera, as well as bridal gowns  and fashion ensemble for celebrities. His passion for designing for theatre plays began in college as one of the enthusiastic young members of the University of the Philippines (UP) Repertory in 1982 and was soon after recruited to tackle the production needs of other theatre plays outside UP. Eric had to juggle academics, organization, and production work and still continues to show relentless energy and quality in his works.

Gian Romano  is an Iligan-native that started designing and styling back in 2000. A graduate of De La Salle University College of Saint Benilde with a degree in Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management, he then pursued his Fashion career after being granted a scholarship to study in Central Saint Martin’s in London in 2004. In 2005, Gian returned to Philippines and revealed his first collection “No Wave” which tackled the foundations of fashion design. His works adhere to a minimalist and utilitarian taste yet brings out the elements of self-expression and consciousness to form and structure.

Joe Salazar studied at Slim’s Fashion and Arts School in the 1960s. He was known for his ornamented ternos and evening wear that avoid minimalist trends. He enjoys doing classic pieces. however continues to add a hint of modern styling to each. Often listed as one of the Philippine’s outstanding designers, he was the first prestigious Ramon Valera awardee, and recently nominated as National Artist.

Amir Sali Aluk is a Paris-trained Filipino designer who ails from Sulu, Philippines. He studied Fine Arts at the University of San Carlos in Cebu City. During his early travels abroad, he met a Saudi princess and was offered to work as a designer for the  royal household. After his 18 years as a designer for the Saudi Royal family, he returned to the Philippines last 2009 to start his own design line which started in his small Greenhills shop. His style revolves around heavy layers, seas of colors,  and generous beadings which eventually got him the title of Prince of Beads.

Cary Santiago is a Cebu-based master couturier. At a young age of 23, he went to Dubai to work for Hazaar Fashion where he learned all the basics of haute couture. Later on, he moved to Beirut and became the creative designer for the House of Jibran. His work is very intricate - all well crafted and well constructed. He has become a household name in Philippine Fashion with his designs being worn in weddings, state dinners, SONAs, and even the Oscars.

Ezra Santos has been featured internationally in fashion shows, magazines, and events. He put up his own atelier in Dubai in 2008 after working with many designers in the Philippines and Saudi Arabia. His works are seen to use lavish, intricate, and feminine designs and materials.

Inno Sotto received multiple degrees in Fashion and Art in different schools abroad namely the University of San Francisco, San Francisco School of Fashion and Design, and Parsons in New York. With his subtly draped designs, Inno Sotto has done a number of international galas, specifically 27, in his 32-year career.

Philipp Tampus is a Cebu-native designer and proud alumnus of the Filipino rendition of the renowned TV series “Project Runway.” Well-known for his intricate details, random patterns, and artwork that emphasize a woman's shape, Phillipp is gaining a steady following of loyal clientele, not just in Cebu but all over the country as well.

Oliver Tolentino, coined as the “Valentino of the Philippines”, began his career in the late 90s and was the first Filipino designer to expand his business to Los Angeles in 2009. Since then, he has catered to both local celebrities and Hollywood stars.

Cherry Samuya Veric’s crafts entail intricate details and cuts that bring out the wearer’s seductive silhouettes. He adorns his designs with ornamented pieces finishing with delicate numbers that appeal to varied audiences.

Chito Vijandre is a top lifestyle and design guru. He is the creative director of a chain of lifestyle and design stores which include Chichirico, Felicity, Firma, and AC+632. Aside from being a fashion designer, he is also known for his signature home furnishings.

Yvette Ylagan is a graduate of De La Salle University and Philippine School of Interior Design. She is the other half of the sister duo behind the local clothing brand, Religioso - a brand that champions locally made materials and showcases world class designs, details, and workmanship.

Reward yourself with Villa Del Conte chocolates!

Graduated with flying colors? Barely passed that dreaded exam you spent sleepless nights studying for? Whether you got the job of your dreams or simply had another hard day, have a much-deserved pat on the back and indulge in heavenly 100g chocolate bars from Villa del Conte. Choose among milk chocolate with cereals, 50% dark chocolate with crunchy toffee and sea salt, or fine milk chocolate with hazelnut chips, and celebrate your accomplishments in every bite – may they be as simple as surviving the daily heavy traffic.


Treat yourself today and visit Villa del Conte stores at SM Megamall, Greenbelt 5, Century City Mall, Shangri-la Mall, Resorts World, Alabang Town Center, and Robinsons Magnolia.

For bulk orders, please contact 893-2575 or 621-6101. Go to http://www.villadelcontecioccolato.com/ to know more about Villa del Conte, or follow them on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/VillaDelContePh,
Instagram: http://instagram.com/villadelconte and Twitter: https://twitter.com/VilladelConte.

The new corn option available at McDonalds Happy Meal Kung Fu Panda 3 toys

Good news to all corn lovers out there! Now there's an option choosing your corn cup over your fries to complete your Happy Meal! at McDonalds  the kind of happiness only a Happy Meal can bring.

The new corn option goes perfectly with McDonald’s newest Happy Meal toy offering, Kung Fu Panda 3! Corn is a great source of energy to be able to train like Po, focus like Master Shifu, and conquer obstacles like the Furious Five.

For those who are yet to see the movie Kung Fu Panda 3, here's your chance to complete the characters from Po to Master Shifu to Tigress to the Furious Five!

McDonald’s has a new treat for Happy Meal fans and it’s more than a new set of awesome Happy Meal toys. It’s a timeless favorite among Filipinos and a fun snack for kids and adults alike – corn!

Starting March 9, corn-loving customers may choose between McDonald’s Fries and a yummy corn cup to complete their Happy Meal.

Find these famous Kung Fu Panda characters in McDonald’s Happy Meal starting March 9.  There are eight Kung Fu Panda 3 Happy Meal toys to collect! If connected side-by-side, the characters will do their signature move simultaneously with a push of a button.



With the new corn option and Kung Fu Panda Happy Meal toys, McDonald’s continues to offer more fun food choices and cute toys both for kids and kids-at-heart.

Both offers are available at all McDonald’s restaurants nationwide through the front counter, Drive-Thru, or McDelivery by dialing 86-2-36, visiting www.mcdelivery.com.ph, or by ordering through the McDo PH App, available for free in both Android and iOS.

Gather your family and friends and head to your nearest McDonald’s to discover the kind of happiness only a Happy Meal can bring. Share your bonding moments with McDonald’s via the official Facebook page, www.facebook.com/mcdo.ph, or by tagging @McDo_PH on Twitter and Instagram. #McDoHappyMeal

Book & Borders: The best place to grab a book and coffee

I rediscovered my favorite book "The Bridges of Madison County" at the launch of Book & Borders, Tomas Morato QC last year. I have been looking for it since 2012 when I lost my copy. Now, whenever Im on the hunt for the old/new title from some of my favorite authors, with latte and pasta in tow, Book & Borders is the place to go, for me. With its playful, youthful, and warm interiors, any corner can be a great spot for me-time. You can get lost with all the bestseller finds inside the book cafe, just dont forget to partner that with their coffee, lattes, pastas and cakes.

I was just glad that Book & Borders opened their second branch at Tuscany, McKinley, BGC last March 1. The launch was attended by Ms. Karylle Yuzon, Benjamin Alves,  Kristine Simisim and hosted by Ms. Julz Savard.  Aside from being a top pick for their caffeine fix. The instagram-worthy book cafe lets you read while you take small bites with your favorite drink.

In a city packed with bars and clubs, Book & Borders offers bookworms and individuals with quieter passions their own relaxing respite.

The latest themed café to open in Tomas, Morato, Quezon City and McKinley Hill, Bonifacio Global City, Book & Borders has become one of the metro’s more popular hangouts, and not for the reasons that you’d typically expect.

While coffee shops and cafes are now a dime a dozen, Book & Borders puts itself in a class of its own, distinguishing itself as a haven for people who want to enjoy a more relaxed afternoon, sipping their favorite brew and immersed in their favorite books.

“Here, you can relish the quiet, tucked in your little corner where you can enjoy your coffee or tea, and indulge in your favorite pastime – reading,” shares Kristine Simisim, café owner. “Bring a friend or your new book and discover how time flies.”

But even if you come empty handed, don’t fret. Book & Borders offers an extensive selection of books, from the classics to contemporary bestsellers. And you are free to enjoy them at your leisure. The library is free and open for all, and for a better reading experience, customers are invited to use the book stands available at the café.

“I’m so ecstatic that there’s finally a place for people like us. It’s cozy and inviting, and you won’t get too distracted like in crowded cafes. ‘Books + coffee’ spells the perfect afternoon,” shares Kapuso artist and budding poet Benjamin Alves.

“What I love about Book & Borders is that there’s always something new to discover because they constantly update their library. So even if you just want to browse, all the recent best sellers are on the shelves,” shares Karylle, a self-proclaimed bookworm and travel books collector.

But the bestsellers are not only limited to the books on the shelves, you can find them on the menu as well.

Do indulge your sweet tooth with scrumptious varieties of cakes and squares. (Do try the Book & Borders bestseller: the Queso de Bola Cake!) For something more filling, the menu also offers delicious pastas (Truffle Mushroom Pasta and Tuyo Pasta) and sandwiches like the Beef Pastrami Panini as well as hearty rice dishes.

Of course, aside from their famous brewed coffee and cold coffee-concoctions, you must not forget to sample their array of refreshing smoothies, calming teas and juices.

Book & Borders is located at 281 Tomas Morato, Quezon City and RC-RCM and RD-RDM Building 5, Tuscany Estates, Mckinley Hill, Bonifacio Global City For more news and updates, follow Book & Borders on Instagram (@bookandborderscafe) and Twitter (@bookandborders). You may also call them on (0932) 871 785