Philippine Tatler (April 2019)

The couple had planned to have the


kids earlier, but their surrogate had



to travel, delaying the arrival of the


twins by several months, falling right


smack into the campaign season








get attacked for not having children of my “That morning after the initial count, we
own. But even though I knew in my heart I held hands tightly. No words. It meant, “we
would one day have kids, I also always said move on.” A week later, we were climbing a
that women can choose not to have children, mountain somewhere up north.”
too. Having children does not define us. We The call to public service, nevertheless,
define ourselves. And daughters should also proved too strong to ignore, and Mar has
be taught this.” returned to the political fray, running for
The last couple of years have been a time senator once more in the forthcoming mid-
of reflection and rest, particularly after term elections.
Mar’s failed presidential run. The loss was “Mar was tortured deciding if he should
a blow, she acknowledges, but the couple run again,” Korina confesses. “That’s why he
took it in stride. announced it quite late. There were many
“Mar is a big boy and a very smart one. He essential considerations to settle in his heart
is keenly aware of what Philippine elections and head. We were also living our best life
are like. It is a costly game. But you throw away from the daily demands of work. Since
your hat in the ring because you want to we met, we’ve both led crazy, busy, and
make the world a better place to live in for separate lives. Now we get to do activities
as many people as possible. I think the risk together more often—we get to sleep in and

he took with the physical, emotional, and binge-watch our favourite tv shows and we
financial investment alone, for that chance, get to plan for our future. For so long, it was
earns him a ticket to heaven. But he wanted always about getting through the day, for so
to see the Philippines at its best in his long. And then we found ourselves on top
lifetime—and one of the biggest means to do of mountains touching the sky or under the
that is by being President. sea swimming with sharks and whales. Who
“We hardly ever talked or talk about would want to go back swimming with sharks
defeat. We’re the same that way. You’re who walk the land on two legs?”
a victim, you’re defeated if you believe Starting a family when they did also made
yourself to be a loser. Naku, we both hardly Mar’s decision to run an even more difficult one. dog’s life
ever think ourselves as unable. This is not The couple had planned to have the kids earlier, (opposite)
to say we both didn’t learn valuable lessons but their surrogate had to travel, delaying the Korina’s
here. Mar had to process. So did I. I respect arrival of the twins by several months, falling love for her
Mar’s space and, as much as I’m never a nag, right smack into the campaign season. dogs led
her to found
I also don’t like shoving my face into his Campaigning for senator, fortunately, is The Korina
when I know he needs to be alone. There’s scaled down compared to campaigning for Sanchez
not much talking between us about certain president. Korina thinks she doesn’t need to Adopt a
subjects because I think we already know be involved. “I’m there when needed. How Dog & Cat
what the other is thinking or feeling. I do I feel about it? Even while he was thinking Foundation;
Leopard print
believe we are in agreement in our analysis through running again, I already knew in sheer dress by
of what happened in 2016. agreement he should continue to serve. It is Longchamp


.
philippine tatler april 2019 153

“We try to stand up for who we


are, fight the good fights, travel


the trail, give and receive love,


and always try our best to make


this world...That’s happiness. God



willing, we will raise these children


to be the same, or even better“







what he does best. I’ve been a journalist for is about commitment and giving it your best.
all my adult life. And I’ve been immersed in A life for others. Both Mar and I have been
Philippine politics the past 10 years as his wife. committed, giving our best and living for
It is common knowledge that the country others for much of our adult life. Finally having
needs more people who have the background, children and building a family will be the same.
the wisdom, the ability, and the integrity to We just either add or shift some of our energy
strategise, plan, get things done, and keep their and time to this now.
hands off the people’s money. You might say “Nothing you want to do well will be easy.
I’m biased. Well, I’m not. I will fight for Mar to If I set my mind to it, I will make it happen.
get elected and serve in any court, country, or I declared to my husband years ago before
planet—and I can prove why.” we decided to have the kids that I would be
Politics will always be a part of her life a working mum. Only I can define myself as a
with Mar, but parenthood takes priority now. mother. I will continue work as a journalist,
There are certainly challenges that come with be an advocate for HIV and AIDS awareness,
being older parents, but Korina is unfazed. do my charity, save the dogs and cats from
“To say it is a handicap to be parents past 50 the streets. If I need to shave off, I will know

is looking at the glass half-empty. Older or it and decide it. A woman is often judged for
younger, parenting is equally double-edged. how she chooses to juggle motherhood and
Oh, what I know now that I’m sure many living a full life. My commitment is, first and
parents wish they knew then. So much more foremost, to these kids and the mothering will
to share with my children.” have to be a carefully thought-of standard.
Besides, both Korina and Mar are in great Most, if not all, mums know a mother has only
shape, not just for their age, but for any age. the best in mind for her children. Of course, I
“Mar and I are both health-conscious and balance that with what my husband thinks.
we actively pursue fitness. Mar is strong. I’m “Fortunately, he knows that as much as I
trying to get stronger. These kids will help us trust him on how to run this country, he needs
live to 120!” to trust me on how to raise these kids.
The sudden expansion of the Sanchez- “Happiness is freedom. While there’s no
Roxas family unit from two to four has already such thing as absolute freedom, one should at
changed the lives of Mar and Korina, but not least be free to decide well and responsibly for
in the ways people have cautioned them about. one’s self. We try to stand up for who we are, Hair: kiel otilla; make-up: cariSSa cielo
There is a refreshing clarity to the way both fight the good fights, travel the trail, give and
double have approached parenthood. “People do keep receive love, and always try our best to make
happiness telling me, ‘Your life will change.’ Half of them this world a better place to live in, in small or
Silk print dress sound threatening, like being a parent means big ways. That’s happiness. God willing, we
by Numéro
Venteuno from imminent suffering. I’m not so convinced it’ll will raise these children to be the same, or
Distinqt be that jarring for either of us. You see, this even better.”


154 philippine tatler april 2019
.



Good









Mourning,








HeartacHe














Tributes to the late Karl Lagerfeld, from fashion insiders,

celebrities and admirers alike, have poured in since his
passing in late February. Former fashion magazine editor

and seasoned stylist Daniel Goh looks back on the life

and legacy of the man they call Kaiser Karl




















IMAGES: CHANEL ANd FENdI

signature look
German designer
Karl Lagerfeld had
maintained his public
image so well and
kept it consistent that
it spawned into a
caricature so iconic that
it was recognised worldwide

y now, you are probably already


dusting the Karl Lagerfeld



superlatives off your shoulder



pads, and shaking the posthumous


hagiography pouring in from every



fashion and news website off your



Bdesigner laps. You can probably recite


all his achievements by the chapters and a biopic



must surely already be in the works. (Glenn Close in



a powdered ponytail as Kaiser Karl, anyone?). But


here are some points you might have missed in the



fog of dry shampoo.







PUBLIC FACE collar; strictly‑tailored black coat with

No one actually knows a whole lot about narrow sleeves ending in fingerless gloves;
the real Karl Lagerfeld. Even his age was a and heavy Chrome Hearts rings. In the 1980s
matter of some dispute—the German fashion and ’90s, he didn’t wear gloves, but fluttered
designer, who died in Paris on February 19, a fan. So recognisable was this caricature
was said to be 85 years old, but his that Fendi made the Karlito bag charms,

chronological age was never confirmed. Even which remain hugely sellable.
the conditions of his illness and death were We think of Lagerfeld as a
glossed over. Tellingly, no account of his last silhouette, which appeared on everything
hours has surfaced, as is wont with people of from tees to Diet Coke cans. We do not
this stature. reflect on how this image was painstakingly
An icon of his own invention, assembled, much like how Chanel’s mega
Lagerfeld had constructed a glittering and shows at Paris’ Grand Palais with icebergs
LAST BOW impenetrable edifice ceaselessly honed and rockets, and waterfalls and gardens were
(opposite) over five decades in fashion, starting in mounted—through sheer force of will, an
The designer the 1960s when he first started working at army of enablers, military precision, limitless
taking the
customary Chloé. Through media omnipresence, the resources, discipline and vision.
bow at a Fendi Lagerfeld avatar had wormed its
runway show way into everyone’s mind beyond the fashion KEPT UNDER WRAPS
in 2016 with industry, making him a global icon. Despite living his life in the full glare of the
accessories Lagerfeld is so starkly drawn that he is media spotlight, Lagerfeld had no personal
and menswear
creative like an emoji. Think armour plate‑like dark scandals, unlike public figures such as
director Silvia glasses swept over a wide mouth; white John Galliano, Alexander McQueen or even
Venturini Fendi powdered ponytail joined to stiff white Michael Jackson for that matter whose

158
.
philippine tatler april 2019

.
philippine tatler month year 157

personal struggles, addictions and weaknesses importance, unlike Yves Saint Laurent (his

were tragically human. This reflects a life led arch-rival), Valentino Garavani, Miuccia Prada
with monastic chastity despite his Swiss Guard or even Calvin Klein. The various iterations of
of male models and bodyguard-chauffeurs. the Karl Lagerfeld label always felt boutique,
Even his affection for his godson, the 11-year- and secondary to the labels he laboured under
old child model Hudson Kroenig, is only such as Chanel and Fendi. Throughout his
slightly creepy; and his avowed desire to marry career, he had also worked for Pierre Balmain
his cat, Choupette, while camp, just makes him and Jean Patou, and even Max Mara, always
sound dotty, like a neighbourhood cat auntie. effacing himself and subsumed under the big
couture names he worked for.
HARD WORKER
People don’t give Lagerfeld enough credit A SMART, LOVELY PERSON

for the gruelling grind which must have been Not enough is made of Lagerfeld’s voracious
his reality. To design multiple collections for literacy (in four languages!) and his scholarly
multiple brands, every season, for decades, pursuits. Yes, the mountain of books and
is a colossal achievement. And then, he papers would have given Marie Kondo a
also took the photographs for the ads and nervous breakdown, but his erudition gave
editorials. He drew illustrations for branding gravitas to the Maison Lemarié feathers
collaterals, invites and magazines. He and layers of gossamer Lesage lace. The
wrote essays and handwrote notes, letters learnings that Lagerfeld wore so lightly
and cards. He designed interiors and shop imbued everything he created with a special
windows, and schmoozed with C-suites and refinement and polish you couldn’t find
celebrities. It is no wonder he hardly slept. anywhere else. It gave a dignified sheen
Lagerfeld turned up and delivered—for to even the unlikeliest of clunky Chanel
more than 50 years. shoes. The strangest fancies at Fendi had
the sparkle of a thing which knew its place
MODEST NATURE in the history of fashion, a look that money

Despite his outsized alter ego, Lagerfeld must couldn’t buy. Besides a high IQ, Lagerfeld
have been humble at his core. He had never obviously had a high EQ, too. His loyal
built an eponymous fashion house of any friends and collaborators are legion, and

160 philippine tatler april 2019
.

many have stayed with him throughout his FORWARD-LOOKING

career. This has to say something about Lagerfeld was always looking ahead.
his human warmth, because nothing could An example of how far ahead he was:
have inspired such loyalty up and down he made his beloved cat, Choupette,
the hierarchy, from the Wertheimers (the a social media and endorsement star,
family owns a majority stake in Chanel), demonstrating (with wry irony) what
Fendis and Arnaults, to the petites mains modern celebrity meant and was worth.
(tailoring specialists in the ateliers), studio He voraciously consumed modern media,
heads and model muses. This also just and was never far from a TV screen,
means that Lagerfeld must have been not multiple iPhones and his 300 iPods. He
only a smooth corporate operator, but in embraced each successive generation of

the end, simply a rather lovely man. stars, however incongruous, incorporating
them into the thrall of Chanel, inclusive
SPEAKING HIS MIND and democratic to the last.

Unafraid to say what was needed to walk
be said, Lagerfeld wasn’t cowed into THE OG the talk
political correctness. He took a logical Most important of all, Lagerfeld was simply Lagerfeld with
approach to the issue of fur—he an original. His ideas and creations were the Fendi sisters
(this page) in
catered to clients who appreciated his always his—he would never be called out 1986; he was
beautiful fur creations for Fendi and by fashion industry critic @diet_prada for involved in
continued making them right up to his copycatting, unlike latter-day designers. He almost every
last collection, which was shown just was a Renaissance man in a two-dimensional aspect of the
after his death. He spoke hard truths world, and each of his art added lustre brands that he
worked with,
about people who were less than slim to the body of his work. He was also an from designing
and made no bones about not liking uncomplaining stoic. Not only did he quietly the collections

certain celebrities—and why should he do the work that has taken a toll on his and creating
be hypocritical about any of these? Some contemporaries, he continued doing so right the advertising
have taken issue with his snippy side, but up to his last, gravely ill, and probably in and editorial
campaigns, to
it takes great courage and moral integrity great pain from pancreatic cancer. And still model casting
to say these things in the most PC of ages. he delivered. Lagerfeld never let up. (opposite page).

.
philippine tatler april 2019 161

It's RaInIng Men
Clint Bondad, Josh
Barfuss, Enzo Pineda,
David Licauco, Marco
Gumabao, Emil
Khodaverdi, Mathew
Custodio, Neil Dy,
Caelen Tiongson

































































The Most E li gible List

The search for an ideal man, while difficult, is not an impossible feat. To aid this worthy
cause, Philippine Tatler, with special participation of Bench models, sets out on a journey to

find select individuals who fit the bill. From business moguls to star athletes, entertainment
personalities to distinguished creatives, we’ve rounded up some of the most worthy bachelors


Photography Patrick Diokno Art Direction anton san Diego
Styling MoniQUe MaDsen



























































The Most E li gible List 2019



T with this line: “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in



he author Jane Austen opened her famous romance novel, Pride and Prejudice,




possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” And though we live in
a modern (and non-fiction) world where certain traditions and beliefs have been

eschewed to welcome more progressive ways of thinking, Austen’s idea, albeit

dated, may still ring true for many. Some young bachelors now choose to tie the

knot later, electing to first excel in their chosen careers, focus on their hobbies,

and travel the world sans a partner in life. For now. Ladies and gents, it’s time
to get in formation; from intuitive creatives to businessmen on the rise, from

discerning tastemakers to political scions—feel free to take your pick.






Eduardo aboitiz, 29 ian andErSon, 28

a fifth generation aboitiz, he has taken a a self-taught artist, he worked as an animation
leadership role in one of the family’s many and video game design teacher at Exceptional
businesses as the assistant vice president minds Studio in Los angeles for five years. His
of aboitizLand’s commercial business unit. signature micro-art style is reminiscent of the
the Santa Clara university graduate is well- works of keith Haring, with maze-like patterns he
equipped for the role with a wealth of corporate carefully draws by hand, and has had his work
knowledge behind him. exhibited in tokyo as well.



rafaEL aboitiz, 29 miCHaEL ConCEPCion, 27
a graduate of Santa Clara university, he took He is the co-founder of retail company Welcome
his masters at the ESadE business & Law Worldwide, which develops original concepts
School. He worked for several companies in such as lifestyle boutique Commonwealth
London before moving back home, and is now and optical salon ronnie & Joe. also in the
the digital engagement head of the union bank restaurant business, he is looking forward to
of the Philippines. bringing hip Hong kong coffee shop, Elephant
grounds, to manila.
SamEL aboitiz, 30

an alumnus of Worth School and the maCky Cruz, 29
university of Virginia, he is currently the Son to construction magnate Philip and style
assistant vice president and deputy controller maven Ching Cruz, this young man is at the helm of
at aboitiz Power Corporation. before the family resort in Palawan. He is currently getting
joining the family business, he worked as a ready to take up his mba in fudan university,
freight analyst for Castleton Commodities Shanghai this year.
international in the uSa.
aLEx dE LEon, 32
dani aLiaga, 35 formerly facebook’s product marketing manager

together with his business partners, this for the Southeast asian region, he is now head of
restaurateur founded the bistronomia group, product marketing for instagram asia. His team was
enhancing the local restaurant and bar scene in charge of rolling out instagram Lite, a version of the
with popular establishments like Las flores, app that uses less data and memory. before this, he
rambla, tomatito, and their latest, bar Centrale gained experience working for googe and deloitte.
It's In HIs
Endika amPudia, 30 mito fabiE, 26 genes
Even as a child, he showed signs of his artistic this filipino hiphop singer, songwriter, rapper Actor Marco
sensibilities through painting and design. He now and generation t honouree is better known as Gumabao
in Paul
works as an architect, at the helm of his own firm Curtismith. He opened for kahlid alongside six artists Smith jacket
and construction company. His works, architecturally in 2018 and caught the attenion of Virgin group’s and Bench
or artistically, are always inspired by nature. richard branson after performing in his presence. denim pants





.
philippine tatler april 2019 165

AmAdo ForÉs, 28

This scion of the illustrious Araneta family is
following in the footsteps of his famous chef
mum. Combining his passion for food and
acumen for business he partnered with his
friends to introduce new concepts to manila such
as Wagyumafia.


mATTeo GuidiCelli, 28

This award-winning kart racer took an interest in
acting and singing after enrolling in workshops
and theatre courses, later pursuing a BA in
performing arts at Columbia College. Born to an
italian father and a Filipina mother, he is also a
restaurateur, having opened the casual dining
establishment da Gianni.



eduArdo ZoBel HerrerA, 30
Passionate about art and photography, this
Generation T honouree has had his work
showcased along the Greenbelt Tunnel as well as
adorn the walls of the hip food park, The social.
A keen adventurer, he enjoys hitting the beach to
ride the waves.


sHiv HirAnAnd, 28

When not busy helping his dad with the family
business, the eldest son of Haresh and sharmila
Hiranand can be found spending time at the gym.
With an entrepreneurial mindset, it is likely that he
will start his own business soon.


CArly lAurel, 27

With five baseball-playing siblings, you can say
the sport runs through this model's veins. These
days though, you'll often find him on the golf
course. He has also been likened to a real-life
Tarzan because of his long curly hair, and the
nickname has started to grow on him.



mATT lAurel, 28
From being a gold medallist for baseball in the
seA Games and a star college athlete, he has
long shifted focus to a career as a real-estate
broker. despite his busy schedule, he finds time
for golf trips with his family and travels around
the world. He also loves spending time with his
dogs—he has 12 of them.

three kings
Model/student
Mathew Custodio,
entrepeneur Neil
Dy, and fitness
coach Emil
Khodaverdi in
white tanks and
denim pants, all
from Bench

Marty Lopez, 32 keNJi oNgLao, 31

a graduate of NyU, this filmmaker and a photographer by profession, architect Conrad
producer gained significant experience working onglao’s eldest son has gained significant
for Star Cinema before going to Columbia for experience in his industry both here and
grad school. He directed and edited shorts abroad. Capturing images via digital and film
such as Diego and His Brothers, Scavengers, means this creative ensures that his works
and Romi + Jules. He also served as a set always present a strong narrative.
production assistant for The Bourne Legacy.
JULiaN oNgpiN, 25

Borgy MaNotoC, 35 He opened the Julian ongpin young artists
Despite hailing from a political family, he has (Joya) gallery at alphaland Makati to provide
chosen to lead a different career path. He emerging artists a venue to showcase their
made waves as a model and quietly shifted to works. one can also find him in Balesin island,
working in retail, starting with streetwear and a property run by his family.
sneaker brands. His latest sartorial venture,
William Lee, offers bespoke suits in high- FaUSti preySLer, 25
quality fabrics.
He is vice president for business development
in their family business, Smith Bell Corporation,
SaNDro MarCoS, 25 which specialises in various services such as
the eldest son of Bongbong Marcos and Liza insurance, loan resources for seafarers, and
araneta earned his master’s degree at the claims and recoveries. on his off days, he
London School of economics and political enjoys sports such as golf, soccer, and going to
Science. a DJ who is passionate about music the beach.
and entertainment, it remains to be seen if he is
inclined to follow in his family’s political footsteps. MaC pUCkett, 38

Witty with an astute business sense, this corporate
HeNry Motte-MUñoz, 32 finance and management graduate from New york

after a career in investment banking, he University sits at the helm of his family’s company,
returned to the philippines to establish SoLareaDy. an animal lover with a good eye
edukasyon.ph. this platform now empowers for design, he enjoys travelling and learning about
and educates millions of Filipino youth daily. different cultures.


Mark NiCDao, 40 roCCo pUNo, 28

in the industry for a bit over 15 years now, this the son of rico and Bea puno majored in
double celebrity photographer is just as sought-after as economics and minored in business at New york
trouble the famous faces he is often asked to capture University, and worked at both Deloitte Consulting
TV host Clint on camera. and though he’s done almost every and Compass group. open to new learnings and
Bondad in a type of shoot, he looks at each project as an experiences, he decided to take up his MBa at
bomber jacket opportunity to learn something new. Harvard Business School.
and basketball
player Caelen
Tiongson raoUL oLBeS, 35 MikkeL pUyat, 28
in a zipped
sweater, this US-educated Spanish-Filipino juggles the global commercial manager of shipping and
both in Paul managing his family’s private property portfolio transport company international Container Services
Smith with and his own tech start-up firm. off-duty, he inc is a staunch advocate of leading a healthy and
denim jeans spends time with family in tali Beach and joins active life. putting his strength and endurance to the
by Bench quiz nights with his friends. test, he joined the tough Mudder race in 2018.



168 philippine tatler april 2019
.





Paj RodRiguez, 30 CHaRleS Tiu, 30

dubbed the Tony Stark of the Philippines, with a wealth of experience behind him, he
the eVP of asian aerospace Corporation should be your go-to person for everything
owns a fleet of jets and helicopters, which basketball-related in the Philippines. He is
are often booked by ViPs for hassle-free air the coach of basketball teams CSb go for
travel. a self-proclaimed workaholic, he can gold and Mighty Sports, as well as a sports
be found on the tennis court on rare days analyst for Cnn Philippines and the Philippine
out of the office. basketball association.



enzo Razon, 25 julio VillafueRTe, 27
He debuted as an artist in 2017 with a solo He is the founder of tech and web
exhibition called Fur On Fire And Children Of development companies Sofven and zenbox,
The Corn. a photographer, videographer, and as well as art-list.com, an online directory
movie buff, he fis the creative director of Tarzeer of art galleries and events in the Philippines.
Pictures, which he co-founded with his friends. Quite the travel and fitness enthusiast, you
can find him at the gym or on the beach.
HowaRd Sy, 30
The late Henry Sy’s grandson founded Migz VillafueRTe, 30
StorageMart, which offers storage spaces following in his family’s footsteps, this
one can rent in convenient locations around model also works as a politician, occupying
the metro. He came up with this venture Camarines Sur’s gubernatorial seat since
after his stint as an investment banker for the 2013. He has received several service
Macquarie group. awards for public service, including one for
outstanding governorship in 2015.
naCHo TaMbunTing, 23

an actor by profession, he graduated from the RalPH Manalo-wunSCH, 32
prestigious new york university’s Tisch School This ecommerce whiz is the founder and
of the arts with a degree in theatre. interested Ceo of group buying flash site Metrodeal. He
in the arts and fitness, he enjoys painting, started his first business at the young age of
cooking, long walks, and water sports. 14, allowing himself to learn the ins and outs
of the industry early on.
CHRiSTian TanToCo, 24

The only son of donnie and Crickette KeVin yang, 24
Tantoco is a boston university graduate, an This Stanford graduate is interested in
avid traveller, and a budding photographer everything tech, and has even helped develop
who enjoys chronicling his adventures the mobile app for Mcdonald’s Philippines.
on instagram. now involved with an iT-related start-up, one
can find him hitting the gym when he’s able. triple
SiMon RoMulo TanToCo, 28 treat
The grandson of former senator and secretary jaMeS youngHuSband, 33 Model Josh
of foreign affairs alberto Romulo keeps busy as The elder of the famous british-filipino Barfuss, actor
Enzo Pineda,
a business development officer at udenna in footballer brothers, james has played both and actor
Clark global City. He enjoys fitness, travel, and the locally and internationally as part of the David Licauco,
beach, and hopes to be as accomplished as his Philippine azkals, Meralco Manila fC, and all in
grandfather someday. davao aguilas fC. Paul Smith



.
philippine tatler april 2019 171

D















E












S


This month,
I
Philippine Tatler

casts the spotlight on

10 women whose work is
featured at the Katutubo
G
Pop-up Market. All

have made a mark on
the Philippine fashion
N
industry by putting a

strong emphasis on

elements and nuances

that are uniquely Filipino.
I
Inspired by patterns

woven by indigenous

tribes and provincial
traditions, and made

with locally-sourced

materials, their clothing
N
certainly puts a new spin

on the words “Proudly

Philippine-Made”




Photography MJ SUAYAN
Art Direction MoNiqUe MAdSeN
Words MArgA MANlApig
G


























WOMEN

patis tesoro

The act of donning the traditional
baro’t saya when she joined the
Patrones de Casa Manila in the
’80s led to a personal epiphany
for the woman who has become
one of the strongest advocates
for heritage conservation in the
country. Since then, she has
championed the revival of the
country’s national attire by raising
awareness on traditional fabrics
such as piña and local cotton.
Likewise, she has employed
the talents of local artisans in
her own work—a move that has
ensured that traditional forms
of weaving and embroidery are
neither lost nor relegated to
mere footnotes in the history of
Philippine fashion.
Tesoro once stated, “If we
lose what is integral to being
Filipino—our dress, our food,
our homes—then we lose who
we are.” These simple words
perfectly encapsulate the need
to uphold our culture, heritage,
and pride in our national identity.

Anne MArie

SAguil

Sustainability—or, to be more
exact, sustainable livelihood—
is the core of Anne Marie
Saguil’s brand Amarie which
aims to uplift the lives of
Filipino artisans by promoting
their work to the world.
Saguil’s aesthetic for Amarie
has island living in mind: relaxed
fit, flowing silhouettes, eye-
catching colours that capture
the beauty of the islands. But,
at the same time, the details
also tell the story of women’s
dedication to their craft:
intricate calado embroidery, the
kind normally used to embellish
the barong Tagalog, is rendered
in vivid, non-traditional hues,
carefully stitched by hand in
every garment.
In doing so, Saguil has not
only created an appealing
fusion between modern styles
and traditional craftsmanship,
but she has also made a
difference in the lives of local
artisans and elevated their craft
to high art.

Gabbie

SarenaS


Delicate floral embroidery
reminiscent of sampaguita
blossoms is strewn over the
tulle of a bridal veil, while
carabaos romp through rice
fields on chambray dresses.
This playful, feminine, and
uniquely Filipino aesthetic is a
signature feature in the work of
designer Gabbie Sarenas.
The SoFa Design Institute
alumna aims to preserve
traditional Filipino techniques
and craftsmanship to create
clothes that are perfect for
modern young women who
wish to express their pride in
their heritage. But this noble
aim is balanced by touches of
whimsy in her work: silk jusi
sleeves that would normally
be seen on a formal terno, for
example, serve as an unusual
accent to a gingham dress
inspired by the loose dusters
worn by housewives. Indeed,
the effect was so unusual, that
artist Kim Oliveros depicted the
dress in one of her pieces for
ArtFair 2019—something that
has enabled Sarenas’ work to
transcend from fashion to art.

Techie

hagedorn

Making the jump from
economics to haute couture
may seem a mind-boggling
stretch for some people, but
those who know the work of
designer Techie Hagedorn can
attest that the woman’s passion
for fashion has definitely paid off.
Hagedorn is the creative mind
behind Alegre Resortwear, a
clothing line that incorporates
nuances of traditional Filipino
clothing with breezy ease and
effortless elegance. She has
transformed the classic barong
Tagalog into a series of colourful
women’s blouses that can be
worn in both corporate and
casual environments. Traditional
weaving and embroidery from
Abra is made au courant in
sleeveless tops and hip jackets
that would not be out of place in
the trendiest spots.
Inspired by women who
are comfortable with their
own bodies, Hagedorn plays
up comfort in her work—and
that is something that modern
Filipino women are certainly
happy with.

Tim Tam Ong


It all began with a love for
beautiful things—one that was
most probably born of the fact
that her mother was into interior
and furniture design, while her
grandmothers helped develop
a taste for the unusual and the
expertly crafted. As a result,
jewellery designer Tim Tam Ong
creates startling, yet distinctively
wearable beauty with a
pronounced Filipino accent.
Heirloom, Ong’s critically
acclaimed 2018 collection,
pays homage to various
icons of local tradition. Native
games like luksong tinik or
the sorbetero [ice cream
man] plying his trade through
city streets are reimagined
as delicate pendants, while
local flowers are transformed
into earrings, bracelets, and
intricate necklaces.
More than this, Ong is also
a storyteller of sorts, one who
keeps a tangible chronicle of
culture through her work. In
doing so, she is actively playing
her part in safeguarding the
richness of our heritage for the
next generation.

Mich Dulce

Filipino women aren’t exactly
hat wearers, but this hasn’t
stopped designer, milliner,
and corsetiere Mich Dulce
from creating show-stopping
chapeaux that have adorned
famous heads such as those
of award-winning singer
Lady Gaga and actress
Leighton Meester. Her quirky,
somewhat outrageous sense
of style has gained a following
overseas, particularly among
youthful fashionistas.
This award-winning
designer embodies the
modern Filipino woman in
her work: strong, feisty,
passionate, and unafraid of
what the world may throw at
her. Dulce plays up whimsical
patterns and bold colours in
her designs, bringing a touch
of the sunny optimism that
Filipinos are known for even
in her collaborations with
foreign designers.

Marga

Nograles


Elegant, stylish, and certainly
one of a kind: that is the way
many people have described
the unusual and stunning
aesthetic of Marga Nograles.
The Davao native (and wife
to Davao City congressman
Karlo Nograles) is the designing
mind of Kaayo, a brand that
raises awareness regarding the
traditional crafts of the T’boli,
Mandayan, and Tangkalo tribes
of Mindanao, as well as the
use of native fabrics such as
traditionally woven Mindanaoan
silk and inaul.
While her brand does
produce clothing and
accessories, Kaayo is more
than just a fashion statement
for Nograles. For her, the name
represents the very ethos of the
brand: the kaayo—goodness
in the Bisaya tongue—of taking
pride in the work of one’s
hands and in the colourful
riches of local culture.

LuLu Tan-Gan

Mention her name, and
exceptional knitwear comes
to mind.
Since 1985, Lulu Tan-Gan
has been considered the
Philippine Queen of Knitwear
thanks to an iconic line that
redefined the position of knitted
garments and accessories in
the local fashion scene. Over
the years, her work has played
up local motifs and reimagined
traditional garb for a new age.
But Tan-Gan’s work has
gone beyond fashion and the
mere creation of garments;
indeed, she also plays a part
in promoting indigenous
Filipino design, as she
draws inspiration from local
fabrics and traditional crafts.
However, she is quick to
advise that anyone who seeks
inspiration from the country’s
tribal peoples needs to know
sensitivity and understanding
when dealing with them.
“Understanding the culture
of indigenous peoples is
important,” she has said.
“Remember that, for them, it
may be an invasion. Hair and Make-Up JOHnSOn eSTreLLa OF MaC COSMeTiCS

Bea
Constantino


& Carol Go

One look at the designing
tandem behind Herman &
Co, and one may think that
the ladies would not be out
of place in any of the world’s
fashion capitals. While that is
certainly true, Bea Constantino
and Carol Go intend to put the
unique colours and patterns
of traditional Mindanao tribal
designs onto the global stage.
Constantino started her
fashion journey as a stylist—
one who famously coaxed Paris
Hilton into wearing only Filipino
designers during her first visit
to Manila—but, with fellow
Mindanao native Go, is now
changing the scene by applying
traditional patterns such as
the famed Pis Siyabit of the
Tausugs onto modern clothing.
Named after Constantino’s
great-great-grandfather,
German sea captain Herman
Leopold Schück, Herman & Co
is a beautifully curated heritage
clothing concept that ensures
that brings the beauty of
Southern Mindanao to the rest
of the world.



FA


























The people, the parti





















































































188 192 193

GOLDEN AT 50 SEAT OF LUXURY BITTEN BY THE LOVEBUG
Sigalit Djemal returns to the Philippines Kuysen celebrates its 30th Philippine Tatler and Rustan’s The
for a multitude of festivities in celebration anniversary with the launch of a Beauty Source gathered friends for a
of her birthday coffee table book celebration of love

Laurie Westfall, Sharm Hiranand, Marianne Po, Roseanne Belmonte, Agnes
Huibonhoa, Jojie Dingcong, Ana de Ocampo, Susan Joven, Michelle Tiangco,

Melba Solidum, Carol Garcia, Alice Edurado






















































Babette Aquino-Benoit,
Derek Ramsay, Ana Asis, Elena Coyiuto, Andrew
Joanne Villablanca Gan , Renna Angeles



184 philippine tatler april 2019
.

ONLOOKER | FACES





























Maricris Zobel and Small
Kathy de Guzman Laude

Kit
Zobel














Alice Eduardo
and Kevin Tan

Vicki Belo-Kho, Hayden Kho
and Scarlet Belo







Sofia Elizalde and
Techie Hagedorn

Menchu Soriano
and Vicky Zubiri
Man of




the Hour





JOJIE DINGCONG’S
BIRTHDAY



The much adored talent
manager extraordinaire Jojie
Dingcong who has been
deemed the life of the party
celebrated his birthday with
his dearest friends at the
Manila House. Hosted by his
good friends Hayden and
Vicki Belo-Kho. About 90 of
his guests had a memorable
time, and enjoyed the food,
music, and endless talk.
One guest even commented
that “only Jojie can put all

of these people together.”




.

philippine tatler april 2019 185

faces | onlooker




FLEUR-



DE-LIS



Chelsea Uy’s
sweet 16



The Tent at Enderun
College was bedecked
all over with flowers and
greenery for Chelsea Denise
Uy’s Secret Garden-themed
party for her 16th birthday.
“It was a memorable night

for the people dearest to
me,” Uy said. Dennis and
Cherylyn Uy, known for
throwing lavish parties for
their little girls, happily
joined in celebrating their
young lady’s milestone. The
birthday girl’s closest friends
and relatives were there to
share the happy occasion.




Chelsea with her
For more photos, visit classmates and
ph.asiatatler.com/society close friends



Ben Chan,
Migs Pastor,
Tim Yap

















































Small Laude,
Alice Eduardo, Dennis and
Mons Romulo Cherylyn Uy



186 philippine tatler april 2019
.

Chelsea Denise Uy





Amanda Waldron,
Annelise Peterson Winter,
Sara Zilkha











































































Ella Tazewell
and Livia Verlini






























Clockwise from left: Chuck,
Vicki Wowo Ben, Chelsea, Lali
Belo-Kho Bebs, and Charlize Jess Connelly



.
philippine tatler april 2019 187

Diana Santos
and Abla Assad


































hoy and
arissa Cojuangco





Sigalit Djemal
and Moishe Yeshaya









































Buboy and
Libet Virata



188 philippine tatler april 2019
.

|
ONLOOKER FACES




Golden at 50



SIGALIT DJEMAL’S

BIRTHDAY BASH


Former Manila resident
Sigalit Djemal returned to
the Philippines to celebrate
her 50th birthday. The
greatly missed lady hosted
an intimate dinner at W17
amongst her good friends
in Manila as well as around

20 close friends from Israel.
Clockwise from top left: Yael Benin, Carla Guests were delighted to
Tengco, Maricris Zobel, Karen Santos, Maya catch up with a familiar
Lipinsky, Lisa Marcos, Carol Garcia, Sigalit face and enjoyed the night
Djemal, Gina Roxas, Anne Marie Saguil, reminiscing friendship from
Dowen Sharon Ben Zarai ,
years past. To continue the
Pedro birthday festivities,
Roxas Sigalit was feted at a lot
of welcome dinners with
partner Moishe Yeshaya.
The couple also took their
friends to Pangalusian
Resort in Palawan. It was
a memorable time for all
(especially for the birthday
gal), and both promise to be
back sooner than soon!





For more photos, visit
ph.asiatatler.com/society
Peter and Sigal and Alon
Debbie Yabut Zaidman

Clockwise from top Carla and
left: Sagiv and Michal Al Tengco
Stravinsky, Maria Baer,
Sigal Dragash,
Litat Michaely








































.
philippine tatler april 2019

FACES | ONLOOKER



Mario Katigbak, Nympha Valencia,
Arnel Patawaran, Stephanie Chong
Paper Roses



TIFFANY & CO’S

FIRST EVENT


To mark Mario Katigbak’s
appointment as the
country’s new brand
manager and the upcoming
opening of the flagship
boutique in June 2019,
Tiffany & Co hosted a pre-
Valentine event for guests

to peruse jewellery while
enjoying bubbly at Rustan’s
Makati and Rustan’s Tower
EDSA. Models showcased
the HardWear, Tiffany T,
and Tiffany Paper Flowers
collections during
the said event.




For more photos, visit
ph.asiatatler.com/society




Linda Ley




















Mellie Ablaza and Tina Jacinto, Rupert Jacinto,
Annie Ringor Carol Basa


































Millet Kathy and Jay
Mananquil Mike Huang Camos



190 philippine tatler april 2019
.

Abe Licaros, George Sarakini,
Nini Licaros, Louie Ablaza,
Johnny Litton





















































Birthday Gal



NINI LICAROS’

PARTY


Hostess with the mostest
Nini Licaros celebrated her
birthday via a special dinner
with family and friends at
her elegant North Forbes

home. The walls were
aren Macasaet Baby and adorned with colourful
nd Elenita Binay Danny Vazquez
Ching Cruz lanterns and decorations,
which guests admired as
they entered. Close friends
including lifestyle columnist
Johnny Litton sang for
the birthday celebrator
while the sumptuous food
was prepared by Chef
Noel Hizon. Live music
entertained everyone
throughout the night.









For more photos, visit
ph.asiatatler.com/society
Marilou Loi Ejercito Estrada, Agnes
Pineda Princess Disini, Susan Joven Huibonhoa



.
philippine tatler april 2019 191

FACES | ONLOOKER























































Maybelle Go Chiong, Edison Go,
Marleen Go Uyecio, Jensen Go


XX Alvin Vega, Fred Sibug,
Seat of Luxury Bong Recio



KUYSEN 30TH

ANNIVERSARY


On Kuysen’s 30th anniversary,
they unveiled Kuysen Design
+ Experience Center (KDEC)
in Makati for customers
to #ExperienceKuysen

themselves. The company has
always been the elite shoppers’
partner in home furnishing.
Ed Miko
Calma spiras Jensen Go, President and
General Manager emphasized
the importance of making the
showroom more accessible to
people interested in the brand.
Along with this, in partnership
with Philippine Tatler, Marleen
Go Uyecio, the Creative
Director of the Kuysen Team,
announced the launching of
“Kuysen at Thirty”, a coffee
table book showcasing the
best luxury brands and
different collections only
Kuysen can truly be proud of.


Luca Ambrosio, Gian Rizzi, Tito Villanueva Nicole
Gianluca Ceccotti, Roberto Pozzoli and Ivy Almario Ortega



192 philippine tatler april 2019
.

Bitten by the


Lovebug



Love Rocks

event


At Gallery by Chele, friends
of Rustan’s The Beauty Source
and Philippine Tatler gathered
for a celebration of love.
Attendees watched the video
footage of the heartwarming

stories of couples Rissa and
Paolo Trillo, Martin and Ari
Cu, and Marion and Martin
de Guzman. DJ Samantha
Nicole was on board to
play love tunes while Chef
Armand del Rosario, Irene Francisco, Jackie Chele Gonzalez prepared the
and Georgia Schulze-del Rosario Avecilla night’s bill of fare. Beauty
and skincare products from
Rustan’s were available for
guests to check out.




For more photos, visit
ph.asiatatler.com/society


Paolo and
Rissa Trillo

















Miko and Nicole Inigo Uy, Rosenthal
De Los Reyes Tee, Kelly Go


Natalia Peña, Apollo Lara, Monica Dizon,
Bambina Jacinto, Adrian Asceron




























Jessica and
Earl Yap



.
philippine tatler april 2019 193

TATLER TAKES FIVE






NACHO




FIGUERAS








The Argentinian polo player,
St Regis ambassador, and

model for Ralph Lauren, shares

some of his favourite things and

sources of inspiration





“I BELIEVE MY LUCKY CHARM

IS TO WORK HARD”









2 ART


Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel
Basquiat, and Jackson
Pollock are my three favourite
artists. I collect their work.













ASPEN
1 MY FATHER


He taught me everything I know and was
my inspiration for what family means. I’m 3 Aspen is a very special place for
most proud of my family, so my parents me. It’s beautiful to play polo here.
are my biggest inspiration. For relaxing, I also like Punta del
Este and José Ignacio, beach
towns in Uruguay close
to Argentina.





4 IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK; ST REGIS (NACHO FIGUERAS; NACHO AND HORACIO FIGUERAS)



5 ELON MUSK: THE


TESLA, SPACEX,
OCEAN
AND THE QUEST When I want to

relax, I love being
FOR A FANTASTIC near the ocean and
FUTURE watching the sunset.
It’s one of the most
I’m currently reading this biography of magical moments for
Elon Musk written by Ashlee Vance. I me. And spending time
fi nd him interesting. with my children.




194 philippine tatler april 2019
.