Philippine Tatler (May 2019)

honouring the pearl
Co-founders Jacques Branellec and Manuel
Cojuangco with the Jewelmer muses
at the company’s 40th anniversary gala

Jacques Christophe Branellec, Jacques Branellec,
Gaelle Branellec, Manuel Cojuangco, Marion
Branellec-de Guzman, Abelardo Mondoñedo




Arlene Cu
and Beng Dee
Shades of Luster




FOR ITS 40TH ANNIVERSARY,

JEWELMER PUSHED THE BOAT OUT
WITH A FRESH NEW LOOK



Loyal patrons and long-time partners of the luxury brand gathered
together at the Grand Ballroom of the Shangri-La at the Fort in
commemoration of this momentous milestone. Established in 1979
by Jacques Branellec and Manuel Cojuangco, Jewelmer has moved
from strength to strength, growing into an international luxury
brand to be reckoned with.
For the aptly-titled “40 Years of Lustre Gala,” 300 guests dressed
to impress in their blue ensembles, as requested by the Jewelmer
family. The much-anticipated 2019 collection was unveiled
alongside a number of Jewelmer’s most prestigious one-of-a-kind

pieces that date back to their very first cultured pearl, and a photo
exhibition of the more iconic moments in their illustrious history.
The dinner kicked off with heart-warming speeches by the co-
founders, followed by the grand reveal of Jewelmer’s new brand

identity by Jacques Christophe Branellec, EVP and Deputy CEO.


Mia Arcenas-
Branellec

SOIREE | UPFRONT





























Erwan Heussaff, Martin de
Guzman, Tim Yap, Nico Bolzico

Gabriele Boschi, Carla
del Prado, Julie Boschi

























Tina Cuevas, Ching Cruz,
Iris Arcenas


























































Aida Cobonkiat, Charlene
Cobonkiat, Salome Uy

Jacques Branellec
and Manuel Cojuangco

Xandra Rocha
and Luis Araneta Rovilson Fernandez, Aziza Mondonedo,
Krystal Xamairy, Marc Nelson

SOIREE | UPFRONT































Mickael and
Anne Das Neves



















Linda Issa Litton
Ley and Dina Tantoco




Marketing Manager Marion Branellec-De Guzman, then
presented the exciting new 2019 ad campaign featuring Solenn
Heussaff Bolzico.
Befitting such a grand affair, the lovely Sarah Geronimo more
than impressed the pearl-adoring crowd, bringing the house
down with her renditions of mega diva classics. A special surprise,
however, was a performance by Jacques Christophe Branellec, a
talented saxophonist.






Helen Ong





































Chucho and Daphne Paez
Mikaela Martinez and Angel Aquino

Ladies First








Bumble founder and CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd took the bull

by the horns and came out on top with a billion-dollar idea that

operates on kindness and respect, so she shares with MJ Jose





he skeptics thought no woman experiences of sexual harassment and discrimination
would ever make the first move. involving a co-worker, Wolfe Herd decided to leave
But Whitney Wolfe Herd, young, the company. It was a difficult time; she became
creative, and undaunted, stuck to the target of cyber bullying, which left her feeling
her guns. In just four years, her depressed. This inspired her to sketch out the
women-centred social concept of Merci, an online safe space for women.
networking platform Bumble Andrey Adreev, the founder of dating platform
accumulated over 50 million users in 150 countries, Badoo, met with Wolfe Herd and encouraged her
with ladies having made the first move almost a to utilise her female-first concept to build a new
billion times globally. These impressive numbers are dating app. Adreev offered to partner up, promising

queen bee only part and parcel of an even more powerful to cover initial funding and access to his tech team.
Whitney Wolfe narrative—one that Wolfe Herd was able to move Wolfe Herd was reluctant at first (she’d sworn off
Herd took stock forward with on her own terms because she refused dating apps for good) but realised it would be a
of her personal to go down without a fight. waste to pass up the opportunity.
experiences to Her first foray into the business of online dating “I saw a lot of things that were broken in the way
create a safe
space online apps was through Tinder, which she co-founded and people treated each other online, especially in terms
for girls helped propel to success. In the wake of harrowing of gender norms in dating,” she says.


56 philippine tatler may 2019
.

close-up | upfront

faces | close-up

“Seeing this ripple effect of

change in how people treat


each other online motivates

us to use our mission of


kindness to end misogyny in

all corners of the world. This


is our true north”






“I wanted to be a part of the solution and
completely dismantle these archaic dynamics. I
built Bumble to provide a digital space where users
can connect with each other through kindness,
accountability, and respect. By having women make
the first move, we empower them to take control
over the relationship with confidence.”
Though it was created by women for women,
Bumble has proven to be an attractive social
networking platform for men, too. Says Wolfe Herd,
“Putting ladies in the dating driver’s seat takes the
pressure off men to feel that they must be the ones in
pursuit and essentially helps recalibrate the way that
we connect. Our 2018 research findings show that 63
per cent of men are attracted to women who make
the first move. The ladies-first initiative was actually
influential in making them want to use Bumble.”
It can be difficult to get a conversation going

online. A simple “hi” isn’t always enough to break
the ice; the other party, at a loss for what to say in strict one. “Here at Bumble, we truly believe that one
exchange, will offer a “hi” of their own in return. connection can change the course of your life and that
Sometimes, it does not even prompt a response. To idea fuels us every single day,” she says. “Seeing this
help get the ball rolling, Wolfe Herd and her team ripple effect of change in how people treat each other
came up with “Conversation Starters,” a list of fun online motivates us to use our mission of kindness to
pre-written questions that have, on several occasions, end misogyny in all corners of the world. This is our
put an end to the unfortunate “hi-hi” situation. true north.”
And if nothing seems to be going right, there’s the Wolfe Herd’s mission began with convincing
24-hour time limit to the rescue. Wolfe Herd shares one, then two, then three, and so on, users to take a
that this was one of the most requested features from chance on Bumble. Her first move led to another, then
Bumble users, pointing out that the time limit helps another, and then another. With the addition of the
PHOTOGRAPHY: KRISTEN KILPATRICK priority. Block and report features are available has eclipsed its beginnings as a dating app, evolving growing
set expectations: you either message someone within
modes Bumble BFF (for making friends) and Bumble
a day or move on.
Bizz (for growing one’s professional network), Bumble
Community safety is and always will be a top
into a movement that seeks to help users build
meaningful connections in all areas of their lives. The
for users to let the Bumble team know if someone
strong
What started
skeptics thought no woman would ever make the first
has made them feel uncomfortable in any way.
out as a dating
move. They thought wrong.
A real-time photo verification feature prevents
app grew into
the uploading of fake profiles. Wolfe Herd’s zero-
a movement
tolerance policy for any form of harassment or abuse
Officially launched in the Philippines in March,
through inappropriate content and hate speech is a
expectations
.
philippine tatler may 2019 Bumble is available for download on iOS and Android. beyond her 59

|
UPFRONT GENERATION T




Meet

Generation T


























STEPHANIE SY





She founded Thinking Machines, a tech

start-up that focuses on data science. Armed
with this knowledge, Stephanie helps pave

the way for a new industry to create a lasting
impact in our society.







What does Thinking Machines do? There’s a data-gathering part, a data- but in general. For one, the BPO industry
We’re a data science start-up that builds engineering part, a machine-learning part, is changing very fast. It’s been the source
machine-learning and data platforms and a data visualisation-part. Underlying of more revenue and job opportunities,
for organisations. Our primary goal is to all of that is data strategy—how do you, and that’s changing with more automation
create data culture for companies, and to as an organisation, make better decisions and AI. Second, climate change is real and
do that, we work on one client at a time about your customers or operations with it is coming for us. We’re an island nation.
and help them understand and build out the data you have available? Once in a lifetime typhoons now come
very practical and useful machine learning every five years or so—how many of our

platforms It’s not inaccessible; it’s just a What’s your favourite part of the job? islands will still be above water then? I
very new industry. We do a lot of public Hearing someone’s problem and coming really care about helping build this new
sector work and what we do there is up with a way to solve it that feels data science industry in the Philippines
build AI models on top of waste data and almost magical to them. Being able to do because I feel like the work we put in in
satellite imagery to generate things like things like using satellite data to predict the next years will have a huge impact on

poverty and population indicators across and infer the population percentage in the future.
the Philippines. deep poverty, and being able to do that
in almost real time—that for me feels Photography: Alex Van Hagen;
What is data science? pretty amazing. You’re placing a process Creative Direction: Monique Madsen;
It is the practice of taking large quantities that normally takes seven years at the Interview: Jeanna Lanting;
of data we have access to right now Philippine Statistics Authority to get Make-Up: Pia Reyes of MAC Cosmetics;
and pulling insights out of it. The results and putting it into something that Hair: Rudolf Davalos;
industry started more or less because of can do the same in a month. We also help Location: The Peak at Grand Hyatt
e-commerce. Pre-Amazon, why would you organisations use data to make better
need this right? But you have your phone, decisions. Just being able to see them make
and it captures a lot of data about you. these decisions on solid data instead of gut
You interact with Facebook, WhatsApp, feel or who the biggest person in the room
Lazada, and many more. Every digital is, that feels so satisfying personally.
interaction you have leaves a data trail.
Based on those data trails, people in our What keeps you motivated? Generation T is Philippine Tatler ’s platform
industry can understand what drives I’m motivated by a couple of things. One for the leaders of tomorrow. To read more
customer behavior better. Through this we is how the next 10 years, or even the next interviews with young game changers like

can create very personalised promotions five, is gonna be very pivotal for the future Stephanie, scan the QR code or go to
or targeted interventions to individuals. of this country. Not just in the tech space philtatler.com/generation-t



60 philippine tatler may 2019
.

A world-class leadership festival powered by Generation T,


a community that includes Asia’s brightest young leaders








21-22 November 2019 Hong Kong
|










generationtsummit.com

bare essentials
Photographer Guilherme Licurgo and artist
Gregory Emvy collaborate through their
Back to the Roots series, a collection of 25
works showcasing the relationship between
man and nature

life


























Wine, culture, travel, and design





















































































78 82 92
cars FOOD Travel
James Deakin is, surprisingly, not in Singapore Airlines gives a taste of See Croatia, one of the most beautiful
the driver’s seat as he takes a ride in a what’s to come for in-flight dining at the countries in the world, through
most practical Ferrari 2019 World Gourmet Forum photographer Edwin Santiago’s eyes

|
LIFE art








Making History








Having just opened a gallery in Hong Kong, their first outpost

in Asia, Dominique Lévy and Brett Gorvy tell Oliver Giles
what drives them—and it’s not money






























































































the power of two
Brett Gorvy and Dominique Lévy with Untitled XII by
Willem de Kooning, which they sold for US$35 million




64 philippine tatler . may 2019

force of nature (From left) Chinese Hibiscus (1977) by Wu Yinxian; Untitled-35 (c 1980s) by Wu Dayu; and Chinese quince
002 (1976) by Wu Yinxian all feature in Lévy Gorvy’s inaugural exhibition in Hong Kong







veryone in the art world always Most importantly, the space was far more
seems to be in a hurry. In a hurry than a soulless white box. “We wanted
to place a bid for a painting... to to open an haute couture space in Hong
visit the artist’s studio... to board Kong,” explains Lévy. “A space that can be
imaGes: courtesY oF LÉvY GorvY (artWorKs); sebastiano peLLion (portrait)
E a plane for the next art fair... to an exhibition space but also a salon where

make a call to their art adviser... to meet you can host people, you can host poetry
that young collector who’s burst onto the readings, you can host performances. We’ll
scene. But that’s not how gallerist Dominique also have a library there. We want the gallery
Lévy works. “We’ve been looking to open a to be like a think tank, a place where you can
gallery in Hong Kong for the last two years, experience something.”
but we were not in a rush,” says Lévy. “We On top of hosting a more varied
looked at so many spaces, but none of them programme of events than the Hong Kong
corresponded with what we wanted. It had to outposts of some other international galleries,
be the right thing.” Lévy Gorvy’s business model is different, too.
Lévy’s patience has paid off. At the end of At its inaugural exhibition, which features
last month, Lévy and business partner Brett works by artists the gallery works closely
Gorvy opened the doors of the first Lévy with, including Zao Wou-ki, Pierre Soulages,
Gorvy gallery in Asia, a 2,500-square-foot and Pat Steir, as well as works by artists
space previously occupied by the jeweller it doesn’t, such as Claude Monet, Wassily
Graff on the ground floor of St George’s Kandinsky, and Wu Dayu, much of the art isn’t
Building in Central. “When Laurence Graff for sale.
decided to move, we knew it was right for us,” “The tendency in the past for galleries from
recalls Lévy. “This space is of such quality in America and Europe opening in Hong Kong
terms of location, ceiling height, proportion, has been to bring their programme [to Hong

being on the ground floor—it corresponded Kong] and basically just sell their products to
to everything we were looking for.” Asian audiences,” says Gorvy. “But I think a


.
philippine tatler may 2019 65

|
LIFE art


























































































































TOP OF THE WORLD multiple works by mainland chinese photographer Wu Yinxian feature in the Return To Nature exhibition image: Wu Yinxian, huashan mountain 001 (1962), courtesY of lÉvY gorvY





66 philippine tatler may 2019
.

larger role that galleries can play, especially of, ‘If we’re going to do this, we’re going to
because there isn’t yet a large museum have a space and we’re going to have a space
presence in Hong Kong, is to be a place of that allows for shows.’ And something that
education, a place to experience things— Dominique and I fundamentally believe in is
and those things don’t necessarily have to be that when you’re doing these shows, you have
for sale.” to have a strong viewpoint on something and
Lévy Gorvy pioneered this model at its do the show not just to sell paintings but to
other two galleries, which occupy an imposing have some purpose in the trajectory of art
three-storey heritage building on Madison history. Ultimately, the gallerists that we have

Avenue in New York and the first floor of a great admiration for throughout history—the
listed Italianate townhouse in London. “At Pierre Matisses, the Leo Castellis—when they
our last exhibition in New York, Calder / did a show, it actually moved the paradigm of
Kelly, Alexander Calder is represented by Pace art history forward.”
Gallery and Ellsworth Kelly is represented by Lévy Gorvy’s first show in Hong Kong,
Matthew Marks,” says Gorvy. “We worked Return to Nature, reflects this ambition.
with the estates of both artists as well as with Featuring a wide range of artists, the exhibition
those galleries because we wanted to have explores how painters have responded to crises
a great show. Most of the throughout history, be
works in that show were they moral, economic,
on loan—they weren’t cultural, or political. “I
for sale. That’s the kind of “We are not looking think there are two ways
collaboration we want to that artists deal with
continue to do in Asia.” at Hong Kong as a crisis—they either react
But the gallery can only in anger or they return
afford to operate in this third location or a to a sense of nature
way because, as Gorvy fourth location. We and to a fundamental
admits, “we have other aspect of spiritualism in
revenue streams”—and are looking at Hong their work,” says Gorvy.
very successful ones at He sees this recurring
that. Although Lévy Gorvy Kong as the core of throughout history in
does represent leading various countries, whether
contemporary artists, what we do” it was Wu Dayu secretly—
including Frank Stella and illegally—making
and Seung-taek Lee, it abstract paintings during

specialises in private sales on the secondary the Cultural Revolution in China or Claude
market, dealing in works by Jean-Michel Monet pioneering impressionism in Paris in the
Basquiat, Alberto Giacometti, Pablo Picasso, upheaval of the 1860s.
Cy Twombly, and many others. In Asia, Lévy The pair’s sense of what is right for the
Gorvy may be best known for selling a Willem Hong Kong audience has been honed by
de Kooning painting at last year’s Art Basel years of work in the city, including Lévy’s
in Hong Kong for US$35 million, breaking participation in Art Basel in Hong Kong since it
the record for the most expensive work ever was founded. “At Art Basel in Hong Kong we’ve
sold at the fair. That sale was announced always put together a curated booth. We’ve
to the press, but most of Lévy Gorvy’s sales always tried to do something that we would be
are negotiated privately—and some of them as proud to show in Switzerland, Miami, Paris,
involve works even more valuable than that or London,” she says. “It’s the same approach
De Kooning painting. with the gallery. We are not looking at Hong
“Working in the secondary market, you Kong as a third location or a fourth location.
don’t even need a gallery,” says Gorvy. We are looking at Hong Kong as the core of
“You can have a small viewing space and what we do.”
that allows you to have a one-on-one with
the client. But when Dominique and I first Return to Nature is on show at Lévy Gorvy
formed Lévy Gorvy, we both had this sense until 18 May.







.
philippine tatler may 2019 67

A State





of Synergy







Photographer Guilherme Licurgo

and mixed media artist Gregory

Emvy join forces to produce
the Back to the Roots series,

a collection of 25 mixed media

works with a strong point of view

|
Art LIFE












































































































IN MONOCHROME
Seed I from
Guilherme Licurgo’s
Desert Flower series;
(opposite) A sculpture
done in dark wood,
volcanic stone chips,
and glass from
Gregory Emvy’s Black
Swan series

|
LIFE ART































































HAVE A SEAT (Clockwise from above) The Chipperfi eld 1 armchair by Gregory Emvy; A concrete,
copper, and volcanic stone coffee table by Gregory Emvy; A photo from Back to the Roots series






rt is a useful tool in getting artists in the country at the Il Itamaraty Contest
messages across, especially of of Contemporary Art. Some of his most recent
the visual variant. Some people work include a book project and an exhibition with
respond better to images than world renowned Martha Graham Dance Company.
they do words; what the eyes see His Desert Flower project, a collaboration with the

can be processed by the brain in different ways, dance group, travels the world to this day at art fair
hence the logic of certain works being open to and galleries. Licurgo believes photography should
interpretation. Photographer Guilherme Licurgo and inspire, spark joy, and trigger a memory in the viewer.
mixed media artist Gregory Emvy know this well, Exposure to art came early for Gregory Emvy,
both having utilised their unique craft to reach out to whose grandfather was also a talented artist. He

their audiences. For the duo, art is a substantial way later graduated with a degree in fine arts from
of communication, as it can speak to all walks of life the Arts School of Nizhny Novgorod in his native
regardless of nation, race, and religion. Russia. His works, which veer away from politics
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Guilherme Licurgo and the past, are avant-garde yet soulful in nature,
started out as a model. A law graduate, he later drawing inspiration from primitivism and the art
moved to São Paulo, where he is now based. He went style adapted by the French and émigré artists
to study photography at the Panamericana School who worked in Paris in the 20th century. He has a
of Art, where he discovered that his real passion was favoured technique of contrasting dark and light
to work behind the lens. His work has been featured tones, and utilising different materials such as
in multiple titles such as Vogue Brasil, GQ Brazil, oil, cement, wood, and metal for his mixed media

Ad Spain, and L’Officiel Brasil. He also collaborated projects. Working and living between Moscow and
with international brands such as Lancaster Paris, London, he has gained international renown, having

Parmigiani Fleurier, and Wella. In 2011, Licurgo was had his first solo show (Human Souls) at the Frieze

hired to work on his first advertising book project for Week in London in 2014. He went on to exhibit at
Roberto Cavalli. He was recognised by the Brazilian the Louvre and in Miami Art Basel, and participate in

Foreign Office as one of the best contemporary the Amsterdam Art Fair and the Venice Biennale. Just

70 philippine tatler may 2019
.

TAKE FLIGHT (Clockwise from below) Image
from Back to the Roots series; A bronze-
coated aluminium, mirrored table by Gregory
Emvy; Blooming Flower (left) and Desert Rose
by Guilherme Licurgo
































































“It is all about attracting people’s attention to

the issues we are presenting and hoping they


relate. The viewer must be interested—we the concept. “The project has several core ideas:

want to educate, not preach” — Gregory Emvy that we are all products of nature; that global
warming is a very real and pressing threat; and
that we must learn to accept ourselves. We are
all beautiful by default and all equals in this
last year, his Architectural Constructions collection world.” Back to the Roots also speaks out against
was exhibited in the Museum of Architecture consumerism, which, as stated by Licurgo in the
in Moscow, with three pieces auctioned off at exhibition brief, has reached its limits. Adds the
Christie’s in partnership with UNESCO. Also a photographer, “More is not necessarily better.”
public figure and fashion influencer, Emvy has Their voices are distinct and speak through
been features in several publications including GQ, their work, but communication remains their
Harper’s Bazaar, and Vogue. biggest challenge. “It is all about attracting
Licurgo and Emvy combine their talents to people’s attention to the issues we are presenting
conceptualise and stage Back to the Roots, a and hoping they relate,” says Emvy. “The viewer
collection of 25 mixed media works that show must be interested—we want to educate, but
the connection between man and nature. The not preach.” As creative professionals, they also
25 works are further subdivided to tell different observe that striking a balance between pure art
and marketable art has become challenging.
stories, with each group dedicated to one of the
WORDS BY: MJ JOSE basic elements: stone, water, wood, fire, and outcome of what they have produced. Both agree
They are, however, most pleased with the
air. They travelled across nine countries for five
months to complete the series.
that merging their skillsets was essential to the
“We want to remind our audience that we, as
project, resulting in a synergy neither could have
human beings, have shared roots,” says Emvy of


.
philippine tatler may 2019 achieved on his own. 71



|
gallery LIFE





























My Space









A reflective exhibition puts
together six artists exploring

identity and sense of place




ix artists share a common
thread that forms the platform
of the exhibition In the Near
Distance. Ian Anderson, Olivia
d’Aboville, Henri Lamy, Leeroy
New, Mark Nicdao, and Enzo Razon have all
explored their identity and sense of place
in both their original as well as borrowed
countries, offering a great theme for this
exhibition mounted jointly by León Gallery,
the DF Art Agency, and Geoff de Boissieu.
“Art is prophecy wrapped in immediacy.
Yet, it is that immediacy that creates the
paradox of propinquity—that quality of the
thing nearest you that can attract or repel,”
said cultural consultant Liza Guerrero Nakpil

who curated the two-week exhibition at the
León Gallery International in Corinthian
Plaza Makati.
The curator continued: “In the Near
Distance is intended to unite the various
outlooks of the Filipino artist as a global
nomad, travellers to and from the familiar as
well as the forgotten, the men and women
with one foot squarely on the land of their
birth and while the other was more or less
out the door by happenstance. It would be a
parable of what was near as well as of what
was distant—and all the places in between.”










picasseye
Henri Lamy Lyon, 2019
Acrylic on canvas
58-1/2” x 42-1/2” (148.60cm x 107.95cm)


73

|
LIFE gallery

































































































































74 philippine tatler may 2019
.

i see mountains
Olivia d’Aboville 2019
Digital Print on 32.8’ (10 m)
Handwoven Abaca/Poly Textile
Diametre: 48” (121.92 cm)

































peepshow
Ian Anderson 2019
Pen on Paper
23-1/4” x 16-1/2” (59cm x 42 cm)



































































untitled piece from the
karaoke series
Enzo Razon 2019
Hahnemuhle Photographic Print
with Acrylic ink
36” x 48” (91.44cm x 121.92 cm)



.
philippine tatler may 2019 75

|
LIFE gallery




Wormhole on
my Cognitive
estrangement, detail
Mark Nicdao









grotto after life
Leeroy New
Fiberglass, Epoxy, Wire, Resin, Plyboard,
LED Lamp






































































































76 philippine tatler may 2019
.

.
philippine tatler may 2019 77

|
LIfe CARS







driving






mr deakin







Riding in the back of the Ferrari Lusso GTC4,
James Deakin expected the worst. Instead,

he was bowled over by “an unadulterated Ferrari

experience for four”

SILVER STREAK
The Ferrari Lusso GTC 4 is
a package of surprises, the
classic stereotype breaker

anna ride with me? I’m While there are many practical
taking a Ferrari,” my friend
Marc Soong asked as we were cars out there, and there are
planning how to get to a mutual
friend’s wedding in Batangas. many Ferraris, there’s really
“How is that even a question?” I snapped back only one practical Ferrari
before he could even let the last vowel roll off
his tongue. He tried to explain, but I was already
putting on my coat and sending him a Waze


location. That was my first mistake. to myself, as the smile faded from my face. At first,
I learnt a lot about context after that phone call. I thought I was being punked. Marc knows I’m 6’1”
I learnt that without it, two identical sentences and I would be in a suit. Yet he didn’t flinch when he

can have two profoundly different meanings. For pulled the backrest forward and motioned toward
example, hearing the words “Jesus loves you” can this space behind the driver’s seat that, in my mind
be very comforting and fulfilling when uttered in a at least, was no bigger than a Tupperware—which is

church. But it can mean something entirely different quite appropriate because I was already starting to
when whispered in your ear in the showers of a feel like leftovers.
Mexican prison. Get what I’m saying? “C’mon, bro. We go back a long way. Don’t let
So, lesson number one: context. Because, had our friendship end like this,” I pleaded. “It’s gotta
I just listened, I would have known he was going be three hours to Nasugbu at this time of day. And
up with his wife Loralie and his father Wellington. I don’t want to arrive at the wedding rolled up like
Which meant I would be riding in the back seat. a piece of sushi.” I continued, drawing on whatever
All. The. Way. To. Batangas. But no. I heard Ferrari, equity I had in our relationship. Marc laughed and
Batangas, Cavitex, smooth winding roads. Everyone just kept motioning. “Just hurry up!” he said. “It’s
wants to be James. Funny how we only really hear almost 2pm.” As we were running late, I just crawled
what we want to, huh? Blame it on social media. in and thought I’d use the time in the back to plot
But reality started to bite when I saw him pull my revenge. Something special. Like, say, an article

up. I saw shadows. Figures. Human-like figures. One about this ordeal in the country’s most prestigious
was quite large and seemed to be occupying the magazine. Yeah, that’ll even it up.

front seat. It was Wellington Soong. Smiling, as he But as the trip progressed, I was finding it harder
does at everyone. Now don’t get me wrong, I love and harder to describe the anguish. I tried. I even sat

seeing Wellington Soong. But just not in my seat. I at obscure angles to create a more uncomfortable
was confused. “Where is he going to ride?” I thought effect. But nothing. Sure it wasn’t like sitting in the


80 philippine tatler may 2019
.

|
CARS LIFE

























MAKING A
DIFFERENCE
The experience
of a Ferrari Lusso
GTC4 ride is
simply special;
Comfort inside
the Ferrari Lusso;
(opposite) Ferrari
features that
make for a
great ride













back of a Quattroporte, but it wasn’t bad at all. I may
even go as far as saying, comfortable. And strange as
it sounds that was starting to bother me. Because as
much as I didn’t want to be uncomfortable for three
hours, a part of me was committed to it already,
purely through conditioning. In a way, there was
disappointment—if that makes any sense at all.
It’s the stereotype effect. Kind of like the dumb
blonde cliché: you have all your jokes lined up but
then she turns out to be smarter than you. That, in
a nutshell, is the brilliance of the new Ferrari Lusso
GTC4—it’s a stereotype breaker. It is everything

you thought it wasn’t. Sure, its rear end may be an excuse my language this once, I think the word I was
acquired taste, but once you make peace with that, looking for was: practical.
there’s not a road out there as long and curved as the There, I’ve said it. A practical Ferrari. Yes, I know,
smile this generates. during Enzo’s time, someone would be swimming
Even though I didn’t get a chance to drive it, I with the fishes just for suggesting it. But here we

found myself genuinely and pleasantly surprised by are in 2019, the world has changed, and everything
the whole experience. And I was desperately trying comes down to context. Let’s face it: individually,

to put my finger on why. What exactly is it about those two words don’t really stir up any emotions,
the Lusso that, after 20 years of driving almost every just like “hot” and “Math Teacher” but when put
super car out there, is impressing me? Speed? No. together “Hot Math Teacher” it enters a whole
We didn’t get that opportunity. Sound? Yes, but with different realm. It shatters our expectations.
respect, there are other brands out there with an That is exactly what makes the Lusso so
equal or even better vocal range. Ergo no. Handling? special. You do not expect it. Because while there
Once again, impressive, but nothing off the charts. At are many practical cars out there, and there are
least in this price bracket. So, what was it? many Ferraris, there’s really only one practical

It took me a while to figure it out. I mulled it over Ferrari. Yes, I know, I know, they have had the
and over in my head, but it felt sacrilegious even FF and other 2+2s—but after three hours in
when whispered to myself. I kept burying it, waiting the back seat of the Lusso, I can safely say that
for another word to take its place. But it kept coming it is the only one that manages to deliver the

up. Until I had to accept it. Now, I don’t normally complete, unadulterated Ferrari experience for
use provocative words in my articles, but if you will four. Or as I like to say, Fourplay.


.
philippine tatler may 2019 81

|
LIFE food
































































Tasting the Future








Touching on sustainability, quality, and personalisation in in-flight

dining, Singapore Airlines gave the world a taste of things to come at
its World Gourmet Forum, writes Marga Manlapig





or an airline that continues to be a well as a pre-ordering service for Suites, First
great way to fly, Singapore Airlines Class, and Business Class passengers.”
(SIA) certainly pushes the envelope With the theme A Taste of the Future, this year’s
when it comes to delivering an Forum centred on sustainability, personalisation,
exquisite customer experience for its and a greater emphasis on taste and quality thanks
passengers on every flight. In the past two decades to the continuing efforts of SIA’s International
alone, SIA has introduced a number of concepts Culinary Panel (ICP) of internationally renowned
which have revolutionised in-flight comfort, chefs and wine experts. Sustainability, with
particularly in terms of dining. Over time, these particular emphasis on the use of sustainable and
firsts have served as the foundation for even more locally-sourced ingredients, as well as an overall
innovative service offerings for the airline. reduction of food wastage in-flight, was initially
Philippine Tatler witnessed the latest of these played up at the first World Gourmet Forum in
innovations at the World Gourmet Forum held 2017 where SIA introduced its “From Farm to
last 21 March in Singapore, SIA presented a variety Plane” concept. photos courtesy of singapore airlines
of fresh concepts that will be experienced by Betty Wong, SIA’s divisional vice-president for
passengers across all classes beginning May 2019. In-flight Services and Design, says that things have
In Good According to SIA Executive Vice-president for greatly expanded since then. “At the time [we
taste Commercial Mak Swee Hwa, “We are proud to introduced the concept], we wanted to do more
A Ruchi Thali
meal served in have introduced many industry firsts in in-flight in terms of our sources for fish as well looking for
Business Class dining, including our Book the Cook service, as fresh ingredients from local farms and reducing our


82 philippine tatler may 2019
.

ASK THE EXPERTS The chefs and wine experts of Singapore Airlines’ International Culinary Panel: (standing) Sanjeev Kapoor,
Carlo Cracco, Suzanne Goin, Zhu Jun, Matt Moran, Jeannie Lee Cho; (seated) Alfred Portale, Oz Clarke, Yoshihiro Murata, Georges
Blanc, Michael Hill Smith; (inset) Lobster Thermidor, a Book the Cook favourite





carbon footprint,” she recalls. Today, SIA continues spa cuisine, these dishes are prepared
to promote sustainable sourcing for its ingredients with a lighter touch but are big on

by supporting local farms—not only in Singapore flavour. Likewise, SIA has signed
where urban farming has begun to hold sway, but an agreement with Singaporean

also in the countries it flies to. Earlier this year, the wellness brand COMO Shambhala
airline formalised its collaboration with Aerofarms, for a range of light yet
the world’s largest indoor farming facility, in the nutritionally balanced meals to be
United States; in doing so, SIA will serve fresh served aboard selected flights out

produce in passengers’ meals on flights from the US of Singapore.

to Singapore. Personalisation also continues
The airline’s sustainability drive now goes beyond to determine what goes onto each

food sourcing and also includes measures to reduce and every in-flight dining menu.
food wastage, through the use of sustainable Through market surveys and focus
materials instead of single-use plastics. group discussions, SIA continues to l
Wellness and mindful living have also been given about what its customers want and w
consideration. “Customers are now paying more they expect from the airline. In doing
attention to their health and well-being whenever airline is able to deliver an even more personalised

they travel,” Mak says of this move towards in-flight dining experience for each passenger, going
healthier menus. “Our award-winning ICP chefs so far as to extend its Book the Cook service to
are on board with the wellness movement via new passengers flying Premium Economy and country-

seasonal menus [that will] enable passengers to eat specific menus that offer an authentic taste of

as healthily in the air as they do on the ground.” home to those travelling to Germany, Japan,
Beginning September of this year, these seasonal Korea, and India.
menus will be available to passengers travelling on In doing so, SIA continues to deliver on its

Suites, First, and Business Class. Reminiscent of promise of a truly great customer experience.


.
philippine tatler may 2019 83

|
LIFE WINE



GOLDEN AGE




Often it’s assumed the appreciation

of wine is a skill and pleasure
that comes later in life, but Asian

millennials are turning that notion on

its head, writes Sarah Heller




s a millennial in the wine
world, much of it can leave
me feeling like a sapling in an
old-growth forest. However,

Asia’s wine scene (especially
China’s and India’s) is throbbing with young blood.
Known for their technophilia and willingness to
embrace a new, personalised style of luxury, Asian
millennials are in some ways the dream market the
wine industry has been waiting for. Here, we dig
into factors driving the youthful embrace of wine
in Asia and suggest some wines to share with your
favourite under-40s:


WINE IS HEALTHY(ISH)
Though doubtlessly overplayed in the media, the
wine-health link dovetails nicely with millennials’

well-documented wellness fixation. Some studies
show health is still the primary reason for wine

consumption in China among both younger and first vintage of his Ningxia wine range, Petite
older generations. Of course, in India and China Garden, which is sold primarily to under-35s. He

wine may be helped by flattering comparisons to says that while earlier generations might have
whisky and baijiu, the dominant intoxicants in eschewed “made in China,” younger consumers
those countries. However, in markets like Japan have championed China-grown and China-made
and South Korea, and pockets of China, a general products. Meanwhile, premium Indian winery
interest in “purity” has driven the trend for natural Sula has established a rock-solid connection with
and low-intervention wines. Hong Dongmyung, 37, Indian millennials through its youth-friendly brand
owner of the Inchon wine bar in Seoul, agrees that ambassadors, packaging and sponsorship of Sula

natural wines, regardless of origin, have an easy Fest, a decade-old wine and music festival.
time finding a market there.

WINE IS THE OG OF STORY-DRIVEN MARKETING
WINE IS ONLINE NOW Before craft beer and microbreweries, who
E-commerce is mainly a factor in Mainland China, actually knew the name of the person who brewed
where giants like Alibaba (Tmall, Taobao, and now their beer? (Samuel Adams isn’t an answer.)
1919.com) and JD.com have smoothed the path for Because of the wine industry’s fragmentation, it

millennials outside first-tier cities to access a world has had to trade on personal stories since the days

of new wine options. Although well-known brands when Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin flogged
like Torres, Jacob’s Creek, and Penfolds dominate her champagne to the Russian court of the 1810s.
the big platforms, more nuanced selections from Isabella Ko, 28, of The Merchants Beijing, a highly
such regions as Sicily, the Douro Valley, and successful e-tailer turned physical retailer, has
Mendoza are available from sites like Vinehoo.com, taken the idea to the next level by devoting her
a blog and e-commerce hybrid targeting young entire space to one wine range and its story each
wine lovers. However, in many other markets, month. In March, she focused on wine estates
including South Korea, Taiwan, and India, online run by Chinese millennials, including Howard
wine sales remain illegal. Kwok (son of Hong Kong billionaire Peter Kwok)
of Chateau Tour Saint Christophe in Bordeaux,

THERE’S A HOME TEAM TO SUPPORT Ling Lang of Dominio de Cair in Spain’s Ribera
Ian Dai, a 30-year-old wine buyer-cum-winemaker del Duero, and Lee Su and Leo Guo of Nocton
formerly of Amazon China, recently released the Vineyard in Tasmania.


84 philippine tatler may 2019
.

PERFECT PAIRINGS




Sarah Heller’s recommendations for a range of millennial palates





FOR THE ONE WHO... a naturally drought-resistant variety of grape that produces
BOASTS A FRAMED PORTRAIT WITH ZUCK juicy, rich, raspberry-fruited, unctuously tasty wines, also
PALMAZ VINEYARDS NAPA VALLEY has less need for irrigation.
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2015
From innovators of another kind (Dr Palmaz invented a IS A FASHIONISTA

coronary stent), this cabernet is the realisation of a belief SULA BRUT TROPICALE NV
that everything can be improved through technology. Style-setters know that the rules are for
Building on an 1881 winery, Palmaz dug 18 storeys dilettantes. Indian winery Sula took the classic
he rock of Mount George for a gravity-fl ow champagne blend of pinot noir and chardonnay
y aimed at capturing the quintessential black for its traditional sparkler and threw in syrah and
weet spice and unmarred velvetiness of chenin blanc. With its rose-gold tint and fl oral
Valley cab. peach, pineapple and mango perfume—and
technicolour paisley special edition bottle—it’s
N EVERY 30 UNDER 30 LIST just so hot right now.
MAINE COMTE GEORGES DE VOGÜÉ
URGOGNE BLANC 2014 MAKES HOMEMADE YOGURT
k this insider gem to earn respect from the HENRI MILAN LE GRAND BLANC 2015
avvy entrepreneur. Despite the excellence I must confess to a personal affection for
of the 2014 white Burgundy, De Vogüé this wine (I once topped up barrels in the
upgraded its white in 2015 to its Musigny winery) and can attest that it is very much
Blanc label (aka the rarest white grand a handcrafted labour of love. A white blend
cru), meaning the 2015 costs about twice from Saint Rémy de Provence, a heart-
as much as the 2014. As with all great wrenchingly evocative landscape loved by
chardonnay, this eludes a fruit salad Van Gogh, this wine uncoils slowly, eventually
description. Like citrus tears squeezed from relinquishing its rich, palate-coating waxiness
a stone, it shows a pungent sharpness and buxom, fragrant yellow fruit.
on the entry that mellows into a generous
middle and lightly saline fi nish. IS PERMA-ZEN
GRACE WINE KOSHU PRIVATE RESERVE 2016
LOGS 50 HOURS A WEEK… Austere, meditative, and quiet, koshu is Japan’s native white

ON NETFLIX grape, though it’s technically pink and easily one of
GENTLE FOLK VIN DE SOFA 2017 the prettiest wine grapes. Naturally high in acid and
During deeply unglamorous evenings we all moderate in alcohol, the koshu in Grace’s Private
occasionally spend on the couch bingeing on reruns Reserve is given an aromatic bump by its high-altitude
and takeaways, why imbibe something ordinary? Th site, boosting its citrus blossom and nashi pear nose.
shimmering raspberry fruit and wafting aromatics of It’s also relatively low in alcohol, so you needn’t worry
this eclectic South Australian micro-production blen about throwing your meridians out of alignment.
of pinot noir, cabernet franc, and gewürztraminer
will mesh unexpectedly well with pad thai, butter MAINLINES SULWHASOO
chicken, or falafel and make that ’90s sitcom BODEGA CATENA ZAPATA ADRIANNA
seem just a little bit funnier. VINEYARD MUNDUS BACILLUS TERRAE 2015
Both Argentina’s fl agship grape, malbec, and
WHO NEVER USES PLASTIC its high-altitude vineyards—1,000 to more than
TIANSAI SKYLINE OF GOBI SELECTION 3,000 metres above sea level—are associated
MARSELAN 2015 with higher levels of resveratrol, the antioxidant
Sustainability has been embraced by countless often credited with wine’s youth-preserving
wineries around the world, but in Asia it’s hard powers. The fact that this smoky, plum, and
to escape the carbon footprint created by the liquorice mouthful of sensuality is from a vineyard
shipping of wine from overseas. Luckily, options named after the proprietor’s brainy daughter and

are increasingly available from Mainland China. sounds like a new-age skincare product (the name
Xinjiang’s Tiansai vineyard has been certifi ed means “elegant microbes of the earth”) is a bonus.
organic for years, thanks to the region’s dry,
disease-suppressing climate. Marselan, For more of Sarah Heller’s wine
recommendations, follow @sarahhellermw



.
philippine tatler may 2019 85

|
LIFE DESIGN





LAID BACK LUXURY






This month’s choices add a touch of elegance for

refined summer living






1









































2

















3

1. TOTALLY TRANSFORMED Antonio
Citterio’s Ribes modular seating system
turns even a drab backyard into an elegant
party zone. Available at B&B Italia.


2. FULL CIRCLE With its unique design,
the Still accent table from Minotti is hip and
futuristic. Available at Living Innovations.
4
3. TAKE A SEAT Sophisticated in their
simplicity, Rodolfo Dordoni’s Euston
Molteni & C poufs are a great mix of
comfort and style. Available at Furnitalia.


4. EASE ON DOWN Water and UV-
resistant, the Haven sofa is perfect for
either lounging on poolside or at your
backyard. Available at Kuysen.






86 philippine tatler may 2019
.



|
LIFE DESIGN




6

5





















5. WOOD YOU? Transformed by
time, this petrified wood serving board
doubles as a conversation piece.
Available at Crate & Barrel.


6. STARK SIMPLICITY Austere in its
aesthetic, this flower vase from the Ro
Collection exudes an almost Zen-like
beauty. Available at Living Innovations.


7. GREY GARDENS With their unique
PVD finish, Boffi’s Garden washbasins
and taps are a great addition to one’s
poolside. Available at Focus Global Inc.


8. COMPACT GRACE Its proportions
may be pared down, but the Dragonfly
armchair delivers when it comes to
plush comfort. Available at Flexform.

9. BASKET CASE Is it a coffee 7
table or is it a storage unit?
Poltrona Frau’s leather and metal
GAMFRATESI Cestlavie tables were
inspired by traditional baskets.
Available at Furnitalia.


10. ON THE SIDE Modern and
minimalist, Giuseppe Bavuso’s Alambra 8
sideboard is an elegant addition to a
dining room. Available at Rimadesio.






10












9



















88 philippine tatler may 2019
.

|
DESIGN INTERVIEW LIFE


























































Built to Last







Kuysen President and General

Manager Jensen Go touches on

how the company’s continued
commitment to quality and customer

service propels it into its 30th year






hree decades of dedication to quality, eight-storey building headquartered in Quezon City.
service, and innovation—this is what The company also recently opened the doors to a
Kuysen celebrates as it marks its 30th new location, the multi-function Kuysen Design +
year of bringing world-class brands Experience Center in Makati. Conceptualised by
(an impressive selection including architect and interior designer Ed Calma, the well-
WORDS BY MJ JOSE; PHOTOGRAPHY: RAMON MANGILA
Duravit, Kaldewei, Hansgrohe, Teka, Porro, and curated space is made to look like a luxury home
more) to the doorsteps of many Filipino homes. that showcases offerings from the brands it carries.

“We are a dynamic company that strives for growth Each floor in the showroom is dedicated to a specific

and improvement,” says president and general design aesthetic, allowing customers ease of access
manager Jensen Go. “And as we celebrate this to their preferences.
milestone, it is imperative that we cater to the “It is only natural for us to want the best for our
diverse tastes and keep up with the needs of our homes—it is where we start our days, and where
clients, who continue to develop an increased we return to be with our families,” says Go. “People
awareness towards quality design.” build homes maybe only once or twice in their lives,
Quality is of utmost priority for Kuysen, hence which makes it a very personal project. This is why STRONG
its strong commitment to providing clients only Kuysen goes beyond industry standards, working FOUNDATIONS
the best. The elite shopper’s partner in bathroom, only with world-class brands and providing quality Jensen Go; (inset)
kitchen, and furniture needs, Kuysen has successfully after-sales services to its customers. My father, Kuysen Design
widened its reach, present not just in major home Kuysen Go, always emphasised that they are our + Experience

depots, but also in speciality showrooms and an partners in this endeavour.” Center in Makati


.
philippine tatler may 2019 89

LIFE | DESIGN SPOTLIGHT
























































A NEW BEGINNING






Crate & Barrel offers stylish pieces to help newlyweds

add a touch of chic and elegance to their first home



rate & Barrel, a premium Crate & Barrel’s collection is
home furnishings exclusively designed by top artisans—
specialty retailer, focusing the right fit for couples who patronise
on furniture, home originality. The brand’s assortment of
accessories, dinnerware, and dinnerware helps create an exquisite dining
kitchenware, and all things experience for couples to celebrating momentous milestones.

home, offers soon-to-wed couples the “My The Camille Wine Glasses, famed for a feature in an
Registry Wish List,” a perfect guide in episode of the TV series Scandal, have slender stems with a
choosing the best wedding home essentials, bubble bowl that allows wines to breathe. Made in Portugal,
as part of the Crate & Barrel Wedding and Marin Grey Dinnerware is finely tempered, resulting into a
Gift Registry. The extensive list covers soft, organic shape that brings a warm feel to casual dining.
every item a home needs with tips and It accentuates the colour of food, making meals more
recommendations on how many pieces to sumptuous and palatable. The Two-Tone Marble’s grey and
register for. Registry experts are available to white marble colour way make for an asymmetric effect. It’s
assist couples when they visit any branch. easy to carry and can serve hors d’oeuvres. Fashioned from MODERN
LIVING
the cross-cut section of teak root, the Teak Root Wedge Entertain in
Serving Board makes use of the wood’s growth ring patterns style with
and gnarled shape. Lastly, Couture Rose Gold Flatware, this two-
elevates your dining table with its shiny copper finish. tone marble
Crate & Barrel also has pieces for the living room and board; (inset)
Celebrate
bedroom. The Zoey Leather Swivel Ottoman is upholstered your new life
in embossed leather and the clean-style design is flexible for together with
any space. The Monterey Duvet Cover is richly textured and the Camille
backed with soft cotton percale. At Crate & Barrel, you’ll find wine glasses
the best of everything. collection;
Elegant
Crate & Barrel is located at SM Aura Premier, SM Makati, couture rose
and SM Megamall. gold flatware


90 philippine tatler may 2019
.



life | travel
























































the next





big thing







It is one of the most stunning countries in the world, worth
visiting for its scenery, coastline, and history. From crystal

clear waters to notable filming sites, Edwin Santiago takes us

to historic Croatia for an unforgettable tour


Photography EDWIN SANTIAGO

or many people, the choice between taking a vacation that’s relaxing, as opposed to one that’s
stimulating and active, can be a real dilemma. No one wants a hectic touring schedule that calls
for a vacation from your vacation, but no one wants to be bored staring at the same beach every
day, either.
Before deciding where to take one of my recent vacations, I purchased several travel
magazines, looked at various blogs, browsed Instagram, and talked to friends, but it only left me more
conflicted. Then I saw a stunning picture of Dubrovnik on social media. The majestic walled city on the Adriatic

Sea, with its emerald waters and white sand beaches, simply captivated me. That photo was enough to convince
me that I had found my holiday destination—a place where incredible architecture, history, and culture is set
against pristine beaches and a lush landscape. It was a perfect combination of excitement and relaxation.






DAY 1

When I gazed out of the window of the plane
and glimpsed the coastline of Croatia, I instantly
knew I made the right decision. Croatia is
blessed with a coastline of crystal waters and
soft, whitesand beaches dotted with colourful
villas and surrounded by a lush-green and
rocky landscape. It was more beautiful than I
had imagined.
I stayed at Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, a chic
hotel perched on the city’s dramatic cliffside.
The property boasts four Instagram-worthy
swimming pools, waterfalls, and bridges, a
private beach, excellent cuisine, and spectacular
sea views. It’s located on a beautiful peninsula,
and there’s a shuttle service every 20 minutes
that will whisk you away to the city’s beautiful
and historic Old Town.




DAY 2
I spent the day exploring the dramatic walled Old Town of
Dubrovnik. Not to be missed is the chance to walk to the
top of these well-preserved ramparts.
If you are a Game of Thrones fan, you’re in for a treat.
The show has done for Dubrovnik what Sound of Music

did for Salzburg. Old Town is a stand-in for the series’

fictional city of King’s Landing, and fans of the show can

visit many of the locations where the epic series is filmed.
If you join one of the location tours,
you can hear real behind-the-scenes
gossip about encounters with stars and
crew. The tour guides themselves have
even participated as extras, and almost
everyone will admit that the show
has brought great publicity, attracting
valued visitors to this unique town.
Walking through the historic
streets and lanes, you can imagine
following in the footsteps of so many
celebrities whose yachts and private
planes have moored and landed nearby,
including Brad Pitt, Prince Harry, Tom
Cruise, Beyoncé, Reese Witherspoon,
Ricky Martin, Donatella Versace,

and Valentino.




.
philippine tatler may 2019 93

LIFE | TRAVEL




DAY 3

Still recovering from jetlag, I caught a short flight from

Dubrovnik to Split, one of Croatia’s oldest cities and home to
the ancient Roman Palace of the Emperor Diocletian. Because
the city has been under Roman, Venetian, Austrian, French,
Italian, and Yugoslav control, the resulting architecture is
stunningly varied and eclectic. It’s a maze of narrow pathways
where you might unexpectedly stumble across homes, shops,
churches, restaurants, and outdoor markets selling everything
from prosciutto to linen. The waterfront promenade provides a
perfect place to sip a cappuccino and do some people-watching.
There are so many historical streets and beautiful architecture
to explore. You can easily get lost in all of its beauty.















































DAY 4
Just outside of Split, Krka
National Park is easily

one of the most beautiful
places in all of Europe to
appreciate nature. A shuttle
heads there from the city
every 30 minutes and takes
a little over an hour. While
there, you can join a tour
or venture out on your own
for extra time exploring its
beautiful water features and
hiking trails. Keep an eye
out for all seven of the park’s
waterfalls, and if you visit in
the summer bring snorkeling
shoes and a bathing suit so
that you can swim in the
lower part of the park—the
water is very hard to resist.









94 philippine tatler may 2019
.

DAY 5
At the crack of dawn, I took a two-hour ferry ride from
Split to Hvar, one of the most beautiful of Croatia’s

many islands. It has an abundance of charming cafés and
restaurants, fantastic accommodations (I recommend
the beautiful Adriana Spa Hotel) and exquisite Venetian
architecture. The beauty is enhanced by yacht-lined shores,
crystal clear waters, and carefree streets. This former

fishing village has gained international notoriety since it
became a getaway for American and European celebrities.
The island is very pricey, yet has a young vibe. But unlike
other party towns like Capri, Portofino, St Tropez, or Ibiza,

Hvar still maintains its small town character.
I was impressed by the cuisine in Croatia because it
was fresh and simple. Just as Filipino cuisine has been
influenced by many countries, Croatian cuisine has some

similarity with Italian, Austrian, Hungarian, and Turkish

food. Yet, all of these influences have been deliciously
combined into their own distinct and simplified dishes.








DAY 6

The island of Jerolim, directly
opposite Hvar, boasts a well-known,
longstanding naturist beach.
Named by many guide books as
the best destination in Croatia,
you can easily reach it from
Hvar in 10 minutes by water
taxi. Equipped with two cool
beach bars, showers, and a lounge
area, the island is both rustic and
charming. Fringed by pine trees, the
rocky beach meets the crystal, emera

waters that are ideal for swimming,
snorkeling, and enjoying the sunset.
I met a few friends in Jerolim, and we all bonded so well
that we decided to party hop around town that evening.
Hvar holds a very distinct title and reputation; it is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site and also a party island. Me
and my new friends ventured to different hot spots that
ranged from casual to chic. My favourite bar was Carpe
Diem. To get there, instead of taking an uber as you would
in other cities, you have to take a 10 minute boat ride from
town to a small island the size of a football field. The bar

is set amid a pine forest surrounded by a lovely beach, and
your roof is nothing more than the stars above you. You
can chill on the hammocks and lounge chairs while the DJs
kick it—it was a blast!
After a taste of Croatia’s amazing architectural wonders
and unspoiled nature (and yes, party scene), I’m still
anxious to return. Six days in this amazing and friendly
country was definitely not enough. Next time, I plan to

rent a yacht to explore even more of what Croatia’s 1,100
islands have to offer.






.
philippine tatler february 2019 95

|
LIFE SPOTLIGHT


Puneet Dhawan: My first job after graduating
from the University of Massachusetts was here in the
Philippines, at the Mandarin Oriental Manila. Coming
back after 25 years, I’ve seen major changes and
improvements in the city’s landscape, it’s now more
commercially developed, and successfully competing
with other economic hubs in Asia. What remains the
same, though, are the warm smiles and friendliness of
the Filipino people.


PT: In an increasingly competitive hospitality market,
what sets Sofitel apart from its peers?

PD: Competition is good and, as the Philippines

continues to develop as both a business and
leisure destination, it will require more hotels and
infrastructure. With our iconic location on Manila
Bay, we’re the only urban resort. We’ve maintained
our position as a representation of luxury and French
elegance that are strongly evident in every aspect of the
guest experience. Our French heritage and signature
Filipino service make the experience of all our guests so
much more unique.


PT: What can guests expect from Sofitel with you at

the helm?
PD: One element that is universal in the global
hospitality business is that it is all about people. It is
about recruiting the right talent whom we refer to as
TM
Heartists . As Heartists, we place people at the heart
of everything we do. The guests we cater to search for
unique experiences, and they want to be pleasantly
surprised during their stay. We encourage our Heartists
to engage and connect with our guests, so we can
anticipate and exceed their expectations.
Staying Ahead PT: Are there any new developments we should be looking



out for in the near future?
PD: After the recent opening of our Sunset Bar, we

continue with the refurbishment of guest rooms,
Sofi tel’s new GM, Puneet Dhawan, including the addition of Family Suites which are
reveals to Marga Manlapig the perfect for a relaxing staycation. At our award-winning

secret of the hotel’s leadership in Spiral restaurant, we are constantly updating the 21

the industry ateliers with innovative concepts and promotions. We
strive to create new experiences for our guests, so they
will look forward to their next visit to Sofitel Philippine

Plaza Manila.
ith a resume that features
positions with some of the world’s
leading hotels and resorts, Puneet
Dhawan has certainly seen a fair
MAN OF share of the globe and has gained
THE WORLD ample experience in an increasingly competitive
Sofi tel’s new and constantly evolving industry. Dhawan recently
GM Puneet took over for Beat Klarer as General Manager
Dhawan has
worked with of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, and has a
some of the number of ideas that are expected to keep guests
fi nest hotels coming back.
across the
globe; (inset) PHILIPPINE TATLER: Is this your first
The famed assignment in the Philippines? What have your
Sofi tel pool impressions of the country been so far?


96 philippine tatler may 2019
.

|
in the news life




keeping it regal



An iconic beauty queen becomes the first Filipina immortalised at Madame

Tussaud’s, while a luxury SUV rolls in and a resort offers sustainable luxury







cathay pacific
pia made iconic


Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach has become
the first Filipino to be immortalised as a figure at the
world-renowned waxworks Madame Tussauds Hong
Kong. Wurtzbach’s uncanny likeness was officially
unveiled at the #PiaMadeIconic Travel Festival
held at SM Megamall before being shipped off to
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong.
The Travel Festival was a joint initiative for Cathay
Pacific, online travel site Klook, and Madame Tussauds
Hong Kong. Cathay Pacific Philippines Country
Manager Rob Bradshaw says, “Hong Kong has always
been a very important destination for us as this is what
we consider to be the airline’s home, and being able
to bring Hong Kong and the Philippines even closer
together [through this event] means a lot to us.”
For more information, log on to cathaypacific.com.



roLLs-royce

luxury rolls in

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is certainly a jewel when
it comes to sports utility vehicles (SUVs) as it delivers
smooth, almost effortless power regardless of the terrain
and offers the ultimate in comfort inside.
The Cullinan sports a 6.75l twin-turbo V12 engine
delivering 571hp and 850Nm of torque, enabling it to
reach a speed of 100km/h in just 5.2 seconds. Its overall
design is a marked throwback to the boxy yet elegant
lines characteristic of its marque and the vehicle has
a similar aluminium frame to that of the Rolls-Royce
Phantom, as well as signature suicide-doors that give it a
sharper, more debonair look than its competitors.
For more information, log on to rolls-roycemotorcars.
com/en-GB/cullinan.html.

the Lind Boracay

For a Better Boracay

The 2018 closure and recent reopening of Boracay has changed
a number of things with regard to keeping the island clean and
green, and The Lind Boracay is actively doing its part.
The119-room property on Station 1 has long been decreasing its
use of plastics. This can be seen in the way drinking water is served
in Hope in a Box carton boxes, the provision of glass carafes for
complimentary water in guestrooms, and the way refreshments are
served to guests in glassware.
The Lind Boracay has also joined the World Wide Fund for
Nature (WWF)’s #AyokongPlastik campaign. In doing so, it shows
its solidarity with the island community to keep Boracay a pristine
paradise for generations to come. For more information, log on to
thelindhotels.com.




.
philippine tatler may 2019 97

style


























Beautiful things to have and hold























Page
120


birds of




paradise




Doll up to the nines in colourful
plumage and feathers inspired by

Mother Nature’s adorable
feathered friends

































104 105 107 110

PoP culture all the frills understated chic about the boy
Max things out this season Save the dainty details for Kerry Tinga plays up the ‘70s men’s fashion gets
with items in loud colours another day; go big time trends with hip new touches an update through sexy
and bright prints with oversized ruffles and a cool attitude to match silhouettes and modern cuts

swan song
Dress, bodysuit
and bag by
christian Dior;
shirt by Sacai;
earrings by
ralph Lauren




































































































photography: affa chan

STYLE | RADAR
Valentino


Delvaux






Malone Souliers



THE TREND


STRING




THEORY




Sonia Rykiel

It doesn’t take a scientist to know that
ummer heat calls for breathable garb;
it certainly doesn’t take a physicist to Diane von
Furstenberg
love with all the latticework lace and
-detail clothing flooding the runways
eason. Layer them as seen at Christian
for a textural kaleidoscope, or sprinkle
em into your accessories à la a raffia
mmock bag from Loewe or a canvas
ol Box bag from Delvaux. We predict
breezy, delicate pieces will take your
breath away.



Christian Dior

































G




Chloé




















Loewe


100 philippine tatler may 2019
.