Tell us about yourself. What kind of art do you make? Feel free to include your personal story.

I’m a fashion photographer, but I started off as an oil painter when I was a teenager. I’ve had a strong art history background, and my paintings were exhibited across competitions in Manila, as well as sold to art aficionados when I was in college (where I graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor in Fine Arts).

Throughout my photography career, I was commissioned by many magazines and personalities, including the House of Dior – where I’ve had my pieces exhibited alongside famous photography personalities. As a fashion photographer, I had the rare opportunity to be in several continents for decades – from North and South America, to Asia and Europe. I was born and raised in the east, but grew up in the west.

How did you become passionate about art? What inspires you?

When I was in college, I obsessed over print magazines. I collected many of them as a teenager, and I remember bringing home issues of Interview Magazine, Details, and Detour (all of which are defunct, and now collectibles). I would  memorize celebrity portraits and fashion magazine cover I had.

Light inspires me, as well as beauty and symmetry – the even-ness of well lit things. I get inspired by even the most mundane things. I believe there’s no such thing as a boring day, boring city, or a boring people. It may feel like being a shark in a fishbowl, but mundane situations challenge me to become more of an artist.

Have you had any significant events through your artistic career? Exhibitions, showcases, etc. Tell us about your accolades.

I’m the first Filipino fashion photographer that shot for L’Officiel Hommes Magazine, Esquire and Lady Dior – all of which were my biggest paychecks too. Although money is a tool, it also serves as validation, especially working in the Luxury Industry.

‘Carnaval de Cores’ was the title of the piece commissioned by Lady Dior. It world-premiered at Instituto Tomie Ohtake, in Sao Paulo in 2013. It was then curated in the next few years across events across Taipei, Art Basel Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Berlin this year. My work was displayed among the works of other top notch photographers, including Peter Lindburgh, Bruce Weber, Nan Goldin, and even David Lynch.

What can you say about the fashion community? What are the good parts and the bad parts (if any)?

The good part of fashion is that I’m surrounded with a ‘fountain of youth’. I was always in the cool company of like-minded and beautiful people. Though, it can be a double edged sword, as there are also many egotistic and vain personalities. Then again, fashion is also about thinking of yourself, otherwise it wouldn’t work.

What are some of the challenges that you face as an artist? How do you get past them?

The most difficult day in the life of a photographer, especially when you work in fashion, is when you are trying to balance message versus sheer aesthetic.

I ask myself, “Am I taking this photograph because I want to be a political activist? A staunch environmentalist? Or am I a photographer because I want to simply appreciate raw unadulterated beauty in all its simplicity?”

“In the end, I believe that the most effective fashion photographs are the ones with a clear fashion voice. Sometimes, you have to choose between beauty and brains, because it can’t always be both unfortunately.”

What’s your message to artists around the world? Especially with a younger generation of artists on the rise.

There are more fashion photographers now more than ever. Social media has exploded, and now there are thousands of hopefuls who dream of being on the cover of Vogue Magazine. Being privileged to have lived and worked worldwide, I’ve experienced many things. My takeout: the good days bring you happiness, and the bad ones give you experience.

Follow Lope on: 

FB – Lope Navo
IG – @lopenavo

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Ushering in a new echelon within the country’s proud line of athletes, Hidilyn has won the first Olympic gold medal for the Philippines.

At 30 years old, Hidilyn triumphed within the women’s 55KG weightlifting category in the Tokyo Olympics, lifting a combined weight of 224KG, rising above the previous world record set by Liao Quiyun of China. She has even received recognition as a silver medalist in the 2016 Rio Olympics, and as the winner of the Asia Games gold in Jakarta (2018).

Filipinos all around cried tears of joy as she celebrated her victory. To date, the Philippine’s participation within Olympic history (since 1924) has seen 11 medals won, with Hidilyn claiming the first gold.

Her story goes to show that Filipinos everywhere can achieve excellence, no matter how dire situations can be. Despite the current ongoing pandemic, she has trained in exile in Malaysia for the past year.

As the olympics are not over yet, Filipinos watch eagerly to see their kababayans succeed and make more strides in the other categories, all while looking forward to welcoming a new national hero.

Taas Noo Filipino!

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Dakilang Bayani (translated to Noble Hero) is the highest award given to Overseas Filipinos by the Office of the Philippine Consulate General in the UAE. It honors the deeds of overseas Filipinos who’ve gone above and beyond to uplift the Filipino community, while showcasing exceptional talent along the way.

This year’s awardees were comprised of International Couturier Michael Cinco, CEO of Prime Group Dr Mary Jane Alvero Almahdi, Senior Gulf News Reporter Angel Tesorero, Entrepreneur Fevie Laurilla, Financial Consultant Ace Quijada, Community Leader Josie Conlu, and Editor in chief & Co Founder of Illustrado Magazine, Lalaine Chu Benitez.

“Dakilang Bayani is a Filipino who inspires the community not just locally but also in the international scene. It has been my passion to elevate our identity and redefine how Filipinos are known in the global fashion industry by the creations impalpably seen through my eyes. I have created and transformed the Filipino aesthetics by dressing up known celebrities, royalties, beauty queens and supported worthy causes that propel who we are: Filipinos who are proud of our artistic heritage and unfettered by challenges. It is with great humility and transparency that I am able to say that what I have done in the fashion industry and will continue to do, inspired and will inspire generations of young designers to follow their impalpable dreams.”

“From the simple desire for a more progressive representation for Filipinos in the media, my team and I created Illustrado Magazine in 2006. For the last 15 years, we have been championing the world-class Filipino through aspirational and empowering content. We have not only supported thousands of talents, but also inspired millions of our compatriots across the globe to aspire for advancement. Most importantly, we have elevated the way our community is seen, while setting the gold standard for Filipino communications in the region. We have done this despite many sacrifices, commercial challenges, and limited resources — because this is our calling.”

“To be a Dakilang Bayani means creating a difference, making invaluable contributions to society and to helping other people realise their worth. Receiving a recognition from a reputed institution means a validation of one’s works. I’m honoured and I vow to continue to take responsibility for every choice and decision I make, and commit to continually improve myself to do more.”

“As a journalist, I deliver the news to my kababayans (compatriots) truthfully and with urgency. The pandemic has brought disinformation in mass media and I would like to believe I did my role in battling the ‘infodemic’ by providing the public — through Gulf News — with accurate information they needed to make informed decisions.”

“I’ve served the Filipino community by organising various community outreach programmes, medical missions, job fairs, and others. I’ve also showcased the strength of every successful Filipino in various social media platforms and spent time helping distressed overseas Filipinos by seeking assistance from government, semi-government and private organisations.”

“Helping anyone without any reservation, willing to take risks to fight for what is right, preserving integrity and personal values at any circumstance, being determined and committed to accomplish an endeavour for a good cause; even at the expense of sacrificing own time, goals and personal priorities. These have been my guiding principles over the years, and if these were the same parameters used in the evaluation for Dakilang Bayani, then perhaps these were the primary reasons why I was considered for the award by the selection committee and our beloved consul-general.”

“I am an ordinary Filipina who consistently helps my kababayans (compatriots) in my own little way. Others may think it’s a cliché, but when I help my kababayans who are in need, I also feel blessed. Helping others bring me joy and blessings come back a hundred-fold. And when you do good with a clean heart and sincere intention, I think that qualifies you to become an exemplary Dakilang Bayani.”

Taking on the immense task of shortlisting awardees, this year’s selection committee was composed of Consul General Paul Cortes, Mme. Yasmin Balajadia Cortes, Vice consul Aleah Gica, and Drs. Rommel Sergio Pilapil, Nino Decenorio, Rex Bacara and Ben Lebig. Five community leaders were also selected as runner-up candidates for the award: Francisco Boton, Emelina Parcia, Richard Zulueta, Ion Gonzaga and Lou Parocco.

Members of the committee and attendees of the event also paid special tribute to Consul General Paul Cortes, who is set to finish his Tour of Duty soon.

Under his leadership as the top Filipino diplomat to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, the consulate has received a number of awards and recognitions through its outstanding service.

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Tell us about the exhibition

Katúlad/Kahádha (@ktldkhda on Instagram) is an online exhibition that takes the works of the Ateneo Art Gallery (PH) Barjeel Art Foundation (UAE), and showcases modern paintings and collages from the Philippines and Arab countries, exploring their similarities and cultural and historical nuances. In that sense, it’s also a tool that promotes awareness cultural diplomacy between the two regions.

Along the way, it explores Sudanese Sufi tradition, Egyptian feminism, the Palestinian struggle against Israeli occupation, Jeepney art and the history of denim in the Philippines. I aim to portray the Philippines and the Arab world on equal terms, elevating their relationship beyond the ‘OFW’ outlook by using art as a common language and denominator. We’re both people with the power to create beautiful things.

What’s the meaning behind the name?

 “Katulad” is Filipino for “similar” while “kahadha” is the transcribed Arabic word for “such” or “like this.” Both words, which share an initial “ka” syllable, convey a sense of similarity—the main theme of the exhibition.

What inspired you to choose this topic? Growing up as a Filipino in the Middle East, you’ve caught a glimpse of both worlds.

Over the years, I’ve put together artworks from different times and places as a hobby based on parallels in shape, style, and concept. When I moved back to Dubai in late 2020, I learned more about the art of the Arab world as an Art Management major. As I did, my instinct for parallels kicked in and I was mentally matching the works I saw in local art spaces to ones I had seen back in the Philippines.

As a Middle East diaspora kid, I was always trying to find pieces of the Philippines in the Arab world. For example, both cultures relate through language. “Salamat” is etymologically related to the Arabic “salaam” or peace.

In Dubai, I kept looking for the Philippines; when I moved back for college in 2017, I kept looking for Dubai. This project is my way of showing that these two cultures I experience as a Third Culture Kid (TCK) can exist side by side.

 

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What are the similarities between Filipino and Arab art? In both historical and technical aspects. How are the cultures interconnected through history?

My exhibition focuses on modern art in both regions, which developed from art movements that originated in Europe and the United States in the twentieth century. The artists I selected for Katúlad/Kahádha (except for Imelda Cajipe-Endaya) received art training in the West and brought back new styles and techniques, transforming the movement into what we now know as modern Filipino and Arab art.

Featured artists Fernando Zóbel and Ibrahim El-Salahi worked in Western abstraction too – art that doesn’t seek to accurately depict reality.

Traditionally, representations of human beings and animals were forbidden in Islamic religious art, leading to the development of abstract art in the Muslim world centuries before the west. You can see that in the carved okkir patterns of Muslim Mindanao, featuring flowing plant-like curves that mirror the arabesque decorations we see everywhere in Islamic art.

The artists featured here have witnessed prominent events and have crossed paths one way or another. Do elaborate more on their stories. 

As I looked into the backgrounds of these artists, I was struck at how similar their sociopolitical contexts were: Ang Kiukok and Iraq’s Kadhim Hayder, both were painting during a time of martial law and anti-communist repression in their respective countries. Similarly, Vicente Manansala and Zeinab Abdel Hamid were both active in the years following their countries’ independence from Western powers.

 

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Even more impressive were the points of contact in their personal histories. El-Salahi, Kiukok and Manansala were all in New York in 1965. Who knows if they ran into each other? The uncanniest of these coincidences, though, is the way in which Zóbel and El-Salahi began their journey as artists: as young men, both artists intended to study medicine, with Zóbel enrolling at the University of Santo Tomas in the early 1940s, when they each began to suffer from ill health, foiling their plans. As a result, Zóbel and El-Salahi picked up art, and the rest is history.

Filipino history within the Middle East is a big part of this project. Can you give us a brief overview on their presence/influence in this region?

 The first wave of overseas Filipinos arrived in the 1970s: engineers and workers who were hired in the oil-rich countries of the Arabian Gulf. Dictator Ferdinand Marcos then created the labor export program as a temporary solution to high unemployment in the Philippines, paving the way for the global migration patterns we see today. Women followed to the Middle East from the 1980s onward to work in the service sector and as domestic helpers.

The engineers and construction workers of the 1970s wouldn’t have been the first Filipinos ever to set foot in the Arab world, though. The opening of Egypt’s Suez Canal cut down travel time between Spain and the Philippines, allowing the sons of the Filipino elite to study in Europe. On their way there, these ilustrados would have stopped over in the Middle East. Jose Rizal, for instance, recorded his impressions of Aden in Yemen and Port Said in Egypt in his journal on his first trip to Spain.

This project aims to break down stereotypes towards Filipinos and bridge the disparity between two seemingly distinct cultures. Can you tell us more about this?

 In Dubai, Filipinos are everywhere: I often joke that you can’t tell the difference between a TGI Fridays here and a TGI Fridays in Makati because both their staffs are Filipino. A lot of us are in the service sector, but in the international schools I attended, I never had Filipino teachers, and I hardly saw Filipino executives calling the shots in big business. When I got into the local arts scene, I was often the only Filipino present.

 

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If people in the Middle East only see Filipinos as third class citizens, what kind of outlook will they have on Filipinos as a whole? If Filipinos are absent from positions of excellence in education, management and the arts, does that mean we lack the skill? I was once told by a British education officer that my English was “a miracle.”

Filipinos are a creative people. Yes, we’re known for being good singers, but the lack of Filipino artists in the region understates the rich talent and perspectives we have to offer. By pointing out the similarities in the modern art of the two worlds, I wanted to level the playing field. If we look into the histories of the Philippines and the Arab world, we find incredible artistic and cultural achievements that rival even the west.

Fortunately, recent developments in the local art world have brought the Filipino artist to the fore. In 2016, Art Dubai showcased works by Filipino artists and featured Metro Manila-based artist-run spaces in an exhibition curated by Ringo Bunoan. In 2020, Augustine Paredes and Anna Bernice De Los Reyes founded Sa Tahanan Collective, promoting poetry and visual art by Dubai-based Filipino artists.

 

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Lastly, what’s your wish for Filipinos moving forward? What can they do to change the narrative?

Consume and make more Filipino art — books, films, music, plays, visual art! We must take our image into our own hands. When I moved back to the Philippines four years ago, I was astounded by the wealth of art of every kind being made around me in Metro Manila.

We owe our artists our attention and financial support. The art is there, we just need to open our eyes.

Let’s not forget, though, that art is also political. In fact, many of the modern works in the Ateneo Art Gallery collection are politically charged.

As we seek to change the way we are seen abroad through artistic expression, we should also use our voices to draw attention to the current social and political situation in the Philippines. We in the diaspora tend to romanticize Filipino culture and its symbols, forgetting the people behind it all and their experiences.

I tried to do that in the exhibition by drawing an association between Manansala’s depiction of jeepneys in the 1950s and the fate of jeepney drivers and operators today in the face of Duterte’s jeepney modernization program which they cannot afford. As we Filipinos move forward, may we never forget the country we have left behind.

Eldrick Yuji Los Baños is a Dubai-based cultural worker finishing his BFA in Art Management at the Ateneo de Manila University. He has worked in arts administration and research for Pineapple Lab, Tanghalang Pilipino, Ateneo Art Gallery and UP Vargas Museum. He has also been involved as an actor and assistant director for Tanghalang Ateneo, Ateneo Blue Repertory and Dubai Drama Group. Born in the Philippines and raised in the UAE, his research interests include global art histories and the Filipino diaspora of which he is part. Follow him on Instagram at @eldrickyujir.

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TNK is a DTI initiative that aims to promote entrepreneurship as a response to unemployment, job-seeking, and migration. The webinars are dedicated to helping OFs and returning OFs from ASEAN, Middle East, South Asia, and ANZ launch and grow their agribusiness ventures. Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Cheryl Marie Caballero will discuss lucrative agribusiness opportunities to kick off the four-part webinar series.  

The agriculture sector showed resilience even during the height of the lockdowns. In Q2 2020, the sector expanded by 1.6%, bucking a downward trend that dragged all other sectors.  

Usec. Caballero will explain how overseas Filipinos can take advantage of this trend while contributing to the country’s food security efforts.  

Agricultural Credit Policy Council Executive Director Jocelyn Badiola will go over the agency’s financial assistance programs designed to finance the livelihood activities of qualified entrepreneurs.  

Lastly, Agricultural Training Institute Director Alfredo Aton will discuss the agency’s capacity building and training programs to equip agri-entrepreneurs with the tools they need to build and scale successful agri-enterprises.  

DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez is set to deliver the opening remarks. The session will be hosted by PTIC-New Delhi commercial counsellor Eugenio Elevado Jr.  

The episode on agribusiness will be followed by sessions exploring Philippine-denominated investments, franchising opportunities, and the local startup ecosystem.  

The TNK webinar series will run for the whole year and feature high-level speakers from the government and private sector as part of a dedicated effort to capacitate overseas Filipinos in key areas of entrepreneurship. END

*For more information about the TNK Webinar Series, please follow DTI-Middle East and Africa Facebook page.

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Related article: Manila listed as one of the world’s top emerging startup ecosystems

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Having worked on a range of media over the years, from acrylic and oil to pen & ink and on to digital art and photography, he developed a personal affinity with human connections and emotions and the oftentimes overlooked beauty in reality, which all of this has greatly inspired and reflected in his work.

“My goal is to inspire those who see my work to look more carefully at the world around them, the mundane experiences that bring us joy and to discover that there is beauty in unusual places.”

His recent painting style has also evolved to mimic nature, from strong overlapping contrast of vivid colors to vine-like and continuous lines interconnecting the subject to its environment. “A clear statement that all things in life are connected in one way or another and that every twist and turn of our decisions will lead us into something new. The narrative has always been about humanity, the challenges and triumph, the suffering and success and the belief that all good things will come to those who seek and strive.”

Romeo’s works have been exhibited in World Art Dubai recently. Recounting his experience, he shares “It is definitely a learning experience and a combination of an exhilarating adventure topped with exhaustion. Four months of sleepless nights urned into 4 days of non-stop communication and engagement with other people of different nationalities, from all walks of life.

“At one point I felt like an instructor and a lecturer more than an exhibitor, but the idea that my art has inspired them in so many ways makes it worthwhile. It validates that tick mark on my bucket list, and a reminder to myself that everything is all worth it.”

On uplifting other Filipinos, Romeo emphasizes on seizing the opportunity to make the most out of something. “One thing this pandemic has taught us is that there is really nothing certain in this world. We should always seize the moment and not squander it. Carpe Diem! Don’t wait for things to happen, we make it happen – it is that simple. Procrastination is the enemy of success.”

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Founded by Mark Palabrica, Aton Ini is one of them – combining Philippine craftsmanship with natural materials and community action. Taking advantage of regional textiles and locally abundant fibers like Abaca, Piña and Nito, Aton Ini is known for making bags, handwoven baskets, home decor and furniture, while also promoting eco – tourism.

“Aside from being locally made, this business venture enables women from the mountains to showcase their craftsmanship through making pieces that are stylish and universal.” Mark shares.

Another form of Aton Ini’s sustainability comes in the form of its driving force: empowered Filipinas from the mountains of IloIlo (as well as the surrounding regions). The brand has provided income opportunities and livelihood programs to an often-overlooked group of people and has proved especially beneficial considering the current pandemic.

“At this moment of time, where we are challenged by an enemy that we cannot see, we have to glimpse at other people’s lives especially those who have no direct access for basic needs and give thought to their struggles. That is why here at Aton Ini, we value our people and their work above all. Every weave the queens of Aton Ini makes has a story to tell, and we are the voice to tell their story in a way that we can impact millions of lives.” Mark says.

Formerly based in Dubai, Mark Palabrica left his modeling career to form Aton Ini. Currently, he pushes to promote the brand within the local market, hoping to export its goods soon. Until then, he continues to lead through a more ‘human’ approach.

“Kindness is not only limited to people who we think are capable of sharing because we are all able to lend a helping hand in our own different ways. We define ‘kindness’ not only by the things we can give but also the talents and skills we can share and the knowledge we can instill on other people.”

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By Lalaine Chu-Benitez

The ultimate challenge of our generation of Filipinas is to realize our shared destiny, and with that, our intrinsic duty to contribute to narrowing the disparity between our achievements and struggles by propelling each other upwards and onwards.

Head of State.  Prima Ballerina.  Chief Justice.  Captain of Business.  Fighter Pilot.  Tony Awardee. Scientist. Diplomat. Athlete. Artist. Activist. Soldier. Miss Universe.

Indeed, the Filipina has gone a long way in recent years to rise above the stereotypical role of traditional women. Not just the pleasant, alluring and sun-kissed presence on Amorsolo’s canvas, our womenfolk have advanced to become strong, intelligent, capable modern women, whose resolve and ability to accomplish and prevail is undeniable.

We are more fortunate than a lot of our counterparts around the world. Belonging to a country which ranks 7^th among 145 in gender equality according to the most recent World Economic Forum Report, and 2^nd among all nations with the most female senior business leaders according to Grant Thornton’s Women in Business Report of 2016, we are surrounded by females who not only take care of the family and home, but also keep the wheels of business and government turning. We have Filipinas in virtually all fields of endeavor and we have heroines in our history, as well as everyday heroes who toil in faraway lands to provide for their loved ones.

Despite the progress, however, the Filipina continues to grapple with the intriguing contradictions of her bipolar public persona, and her less than perfect circumstances.

The Filipina Dichotomy

We’ve seen her in her various incarnations – as the soft and yielding, “easily fainting” Maria Clara of Noli Me Tangere, as well as the bolo-wielding revolutionary leader and babaylan Gabriela Silang.  We’ve glimpsed her donning the habit as the devout nuns of People Power in EDSA, and then barely-clothed as the bar girls of Ermita.  She has held the most powerful position in the land – that of President, twice over with Cory Aquino, and then Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, but she is also the pained face of abused domestic helpers scattered all over the globe.

Even with the robust representation of Filipinas in our country, our women’s health, by and large, continues to be denied proper protection with our government’s failure to enable the proper implementation of the reproductive health bill – a law that has been contested for the last 14 years, and until recently, eviscerated and clipped before it could hit the ground, with the removal of key provisions as well as funding.

For each single content online devoted to Filipina achievers, there are over 50 on those in the flesh trade.  And then, against the millions of progressive female OFWs, who have braved venturing abroad and who have succeeded, we also have millions of underprivileged sisters back home who live in abject poverty and disadvantage.

Curiously enough, Filipinas have come to represent, some of the most powerful people in our country, as well as the most vulnerable.

Filipina Empowerment:  Onwards, 21^st Century Filipina.

Bridging the Disparity

So, as women of the Philippines, what should we make of this gap, this contradiction?  To acknowledge the disparity is not enough.  Far from encouraging breast-beating on account of our inadequacies and struggles, or for that matter, saying that we should merely be giving ourselves a pat on the back for the strides we have made so far, we should understand instead – how far we have gone, and how much farther we NEED to go.

For those of us who are lucky enough to belong to the fortunate set of women who are educated, economically independent, who are progressive and have the liberty and the wherewithal to pursue dreams and ambitions, and who understand that they have a choice on everything in life – be it concerning their bodies, their careers, their relationships, their families, the larger community and the world they belong to, a new frontier lies there for the conquering.

The next summit the empowered Filipina has to scale does not simply lie in the pursuit of further education, or higher positions in the career ladder, more investments or financial liquidity, greater awards or recognition, nor even more seats in the government.  The latter are merely useful stepping stones that will help boost us to meet the demands of the real endeavor that lies ahead.

The ultimate challenge of our generation of Filipinas is to realize our shared destiny, and with that, our intrinsic duty to contribute to narrowing the disparity between our achievements and struggles by propelling each other upwards and onwards.

As empowered women of the 21^st century who have the privilege of understanding and personal choice, we should take interest in the welfare of our womenfolk and leverage the advantages we have earned through the years to pull fellow Pinays into better circumstances.  And the opportunities to help are limitless – whether it is by sharing knowledge, providing opportunities, contributing to provide a better representation of Filipinas online and around the world, among others, we only need to tap what we already have – that innate Filipina quality of being an emphatic nurturer with the talent, the resolve and the ability to conquer everything we set our hearts and minds to.

In the end, it is not just about celebrating our successes and landmarks; it is also about putting our hands together for the work that needs to be done. Because we can only really go as far as the poorest, the most oppressed and the least privileged of our women can go.

Filipina para sa Filipina.

Filipina Empowerment:  Onwards, 21^st Century Filipina.

OPINION

What is a 21^st Century Filipina?

Empowered women weigh in on what makes for a truly contemporary Filipina in this age of technological advances and globalization.

Spouse of the Philippine Consul General – Dubai, UAE

A 21st century Filipina is an empowered human attuned to the privileges and capabilities of the advances of science and technology available to all. An empowered Filipina is aware of her rights as a human being, within the bounds of the laws and policies of the state or country where she resides, and within the bounds of moral laws. She is confident of what she can contribute to global society, aware of what role she plays in the development of the community she has adopted and the motherland she continues to call home.

She should also know that despite categories labelled upon people, everyone is a human being, whose wants, needs, dreams, and hopes are universal and hold no difference despite nationality, citizenship, or economic class.

Filipinas of the 21st century must be aware of the advances of science and information technology and how these could make them better informed. They must use these to better their knowledge of how the world can work for mankind’s benefit, and to ease living conditions, at the same time, to make themselves better people. The information available to everyone at the touch of their fingertips should make Filipinas gain an even more balanced perspective on issues and concerns that matter to society.  The ability to understand our world through greater information must make our 21st century women more open to new and even radically different viewpoints. She must, at no point, be closed to previously held truths.

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER MARIA CRISOLOGO-ESPIRITU COON

United States Navy, Medical Service Corps

Health Care Administrator – Stafford, Virginia

A generation of women destined for greatness! That is what comes to my mind when I hear the phrase “21^st century Filipina woman”.

To fulfill greatness in this generation, Filipinas should first have a strong sense of spirituality.  Regardless of religion, a sense of spirituality provides us a deeper source of strength that this physical world cannot supply. This source of strength has kept many Filipina women resilient today and throughout history.

Filipinas already possess the characteristics and attributes for greatness; intelligence, resilience, compassion, industriousness, perseverance, hospitality, passion, strength, courage, and family values. Many times over, Filipinas have overcome adversity, however, Filipinas should not merely survive life but rather, they should strive to always better themselves, uplift others, and make a positive difference in the world. We all have different strengths and weaknesses, Filipina women should leverage them and work together towards ensuring the success of future Filipinas. To thrive in these times, Filipinas should constantly thirst for knowledge, magnify their talents, cherish relationships, respect tradition (but don’t be limited by it), embrace modern times (but don’t be corrupted by it), uphold their integrity, and strive for a better future.

Filipinas should also embrace being Filipina and do their part in bringing honor and pride to our people, communities, and culture.  We play a big role in shaping future generations by instilling strong morals and values of integrity, honor, courage and sacrifice.  As members of society, Filipinas should exercise their right to vote and elect government leaders not for their popularity but for how they would represent, serve, secure safety, progress, and relevance of the country and its people at national and global levels.

ATTY. ELEANOR LUCAS ROQUE

Tax Lawyer – Makati, Philippines

The 21st Filipina is the best of both worlds. She is old world because she keeps her traditional values like respect for parents, importance of family, and fear of God. She is new world because she is innovative, brave and ambitious. She is not afraid of change and would in fact welcome it. We see Filipinas all over the world, leading strong organizations and nurturing strong families.

Filipinas should be proud of their heritage. We should not pretend to be anything else. We should be comfortable in our own skin. In most places I go to, I proudly proclaim that I am a Filipina. I see a lot of positive reactions. We should all be ambassadors of the Philippines.

It is important to be innovative and adaptable. Everything is changing at a very fast phase. Your ability to change and adapt can decide whether you will be successful in life or in business. A few years ago, hard work was valued the most. Now, no matter how hard you work if you cannot outrun the competition, you will not survive in business. Previous established corporate practices are being questioned by millennials joining the work force. The world is changing and we have to change with it. After all, any disruption is an opportunity.

We should always have a continuous thirst for knowledge. Never stop studying. No one can educate herself too much. If you are interested in something, learn it. If you cannot spend the time or money for formal education, there is always the internet and YouTube. For example, I have learned acrylic landscape painting through YouTube. Before that, I had no artistic training and I can only draw stick figures. Now, my mom is running out of walls to hang my paintings.

It is very Filipina to ignore or negate a compliment thinking that doing so is being humble. There is a difference between humility and self deprecation. We are not known for promoting ourselves and making sure that we get the recognition we deserve. It is about time we learn to accept the limelight when we deserve it. But probably more important is the ability to identify when the limelight has to be directed to us. We are the queen of our court and it’s high time our subjects learn it.

JOAN FATIMA M. TUANO

Assistant Guest Relations Manager at Amanyara – Turks & Caicos Islands, British West Indies

For me in my early twenties, it means it is time to pave my way to success. It is time to figure out who I am, and think about how I plan to go forward. Shall I open a business? Change specialties? What exactly makes me happy? Bake cupcakes for a living? Being a Filipina in general, I am an excited chameleon looking forward to wherever life takes me. Given our vibrant history, being colonized and fighting for our independence, along with the fact that the country is a stunningly unique archipelago in South East Asia, we are destined to be global acrobats. Opportunists hungry for all life have to offer.

My advice for Filipinas today is to be strong and confident about who they are and what they want to achieve in life. If in doubt, travel the Philippines or even volunteer to disconnect and rediscover yourself. Plan your day, weeks or months with a goal in mind and go for it. Open up your minds and take chances. Live life, it is extremely short. It is never too late to follow your dreams, try something you never had time to do and most importantly, believe in yourself. Most of the incredible things in my life have happened because of luck and simply putting myself out there.

Be interested and be interesting. Read the news. Follow fascinating people in your industry, stalk them and ask them to mentor you (like I did). Fill up your profile with experience and achieve all-star profile status on Linkedin. Ask questions, never leave doubts unanswered. Listen, listen and then talk. Improve your cultural intelligence and strive to be one with your colleagues especially when away from our ‘kababayans’. Don’t be afraid to try something new, and always strive for continuous improvement. Work hard, play hard, and then save even more.

OLGA BARCELONA

Head of Operations – Brash Brands; Project Leader – Philanthropilipino

Dubai, UAE

A 21st Filipina is someone who is successful in their chosen careers whilst giving hope to the younger women who are just starting their careers. These are the women who are proud of what they do and who continuously thrive to move with the times and challenge conventional views. These are the Filipinas who support other Filipinas and inspire others to give back and pay it forward. It’s not just being able to provide for their families, it’s also about being able to succeed in what they do, not just locally, but globally. 21st century Filipinas are industry leaders, they are powerful, they know what they want and they do it and they never forget to give back to society.

Filipinas in this day and age should let go of timidity. We should be more confident because we have it takes to be leaders. We can be powerful and we should be empowering other women, instead of just competing with them. Filipinas should be brave enough to challenge themselves to better. Filipinas should be tenacious and go the extra mile to reach their goals. Filipinas should be ambitious, have goals and know that they deserve only the best. Filipinas should be global citizens. This doesn’t mean letting go of being a Filipina, but understanding that we have an added responsibility of belonging to a world-wide community of people.

Filipinas should stop thinking too low of themselves. This is one trait that most Filipinas have which I dislike the most – the lack of self-confidence that hinders most Filipinas to do more than what they are capable of. One can never be more than what they are if they don’t even try.

PERLA RAMOS PAREDES DALY

Life Coach, Volunteer, Writer and Artist; Publisher of Pinay.com

Austin, Texas

21st century Filipinas can dream bigger than their 19th century counterparts because they have more opportunities for growth and potential, and there are more resources today that empower people. Now, it is increasingly acceptable for women to be educated, successful, financially independent and happy. And it is great that she can contribute to society.

Today, because of travel and technology, Filipinas can be global citizens, experiencing multiple cultures and perspectives, interweaving them with Philippine heritage and traditional values. And what really makes a Filipina a global citizen is when she acts to make a difference for herself, her family, and also for her village, communities, and for the world.

Filipinas in this day and age should see different options for themselves; develop personal growth not just material growth; have a higher degree of self awareness, and a healthier self-worth; have a great attitude no matter what age they are. They also should be flexible, willing to hear feedback and to learn, change and grow and strive to be a better person for themselves, for others and the world.  Share their success by helping others grow and shine.

There are two attitudes that we can change. “That there isn’t enough and that we deserve so little”. And that “Bahala na” means we give up our power. These are limiting beliefs that reduce our happiness, successes and our light. The next change that we can make from inside is that we can see God, goodness, true happiness and success, as Light. If we can shift our thinking and beliefs that each of us has a divine light gifted within us, then things shift to “I can shine,” “everyone can shine” and when that happens then divine light is increased manyfold. That is why pinay.com’s tagline is “Shine, Pinay, shine” and it’s underlying theme is shine mentality and ‘liwanag’.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ

Editor-in-Chief/social advocate/aspiring urban farmer “almost superwoman” (almost but not quite) Lalaine Chu-Benitez has been driving Illustrado’s advocacy towards Filipina empowerment for almost a decade now.  She believes that the Filipina’s greatest challenge at this very moment lies beyond further education, skills improvement, recognition and financial might – something quite simpler than what we tend to expect.

More Filipina goodness here – Read a Love Letter to the Filipinas in the Middle East

The post Filipina Empowerment: Onwards, 21st Century Filipina. appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

BTS UAE Army and startup Springs 15 unite to unveil the first BTS-inspired moving art in the region

Dubai, UAE, 3 March 2021: A first-of-its-kind art exhibition that pays tribute to the phenomenal K-pop group BTS will be on display in iconic locations across the country starting March 25. Titled “BTS Meet Street Arts in the UAE”, the moving monument exhibition is an initiative of BTS UAE Army, the popular band’s biggest collection of fans in the country, with the hopes of raising attention to bring the group to perform in the UAE.

For the project to come to life, fans and supporters of BTS in the UAE and the region are requested to support the initiative and receive exciting rewards including BTS albums, Global Army membership and a chance to get a fan letter delivered to the group.

“We intend to bring BTS to perform in the Middle East. We want them to notice that they are very much loved in the UAE as much as they are loved in America, Europe, Japan and other parts of the world. We are calling all ARMYs to support the BTS Meets Street Art in the UAE project. This will be the first time a Korean music artist will have a moving exhibition in the whole region. This is our chance to get united with the name of ARMY of the Middle East,” says Elareese Ramos, BTS UAE Admin.

Inspired by the successful CONNECT, BTS global project in 2020 where local artists and curators around the world engaged to connect, share and exchange messages through different art forms in connection with the band’s music, the BTS Meets Street Art in the UAE will also gather local artist to create art pieces inspired by the K-pop group. 

The first monument will feature the works of Kids of Arabia, known for their vibrant colors and funky vibe. The public can view the display at Jumeirah Beach during the Beach Canteen Festival and afterward, the monument will be moving around and appearing in iconic locations in the UAE.

BTS UAE Army has collaborated with Springs 15 to launch this project. Springs 15 is a test-bed platform for individuals and small businesses seeking support to turn their creative ideas into reality. 

“The K-pop fandom in this region is mindboggling and we have witnessed how the BTS UAE Army produced different activities to express their love and support for BTS as well as connect with other ARMYs in the UAE and around the globe. The BTS Meets Street Art in the UAE is a unique and amazing project and through our platforms, we will endeavor to bring this project to reality and help the ARMYs connect people from diverse backgrounds, language and culture for the love of BTS,” adds Springs 15 Founder Sehee Lee.

The group of seven members is recognized as one of the biggest music acts in the world right now. BTS has inspired a lot of people through their music, messages and what they stand for and was even named as some of the most influential people in the world. Their incredible success has popularized K-pop outside of Asia. 

BTS last performed in the Emirates in 2016 as part of KCon Abu Dhabi and after their “Love Yourself: Speak Yourself” world tour which brought them to Saudi Arabia in 2019, the ARMYs in the UAE have high hopes that they will be back to perform in the region and include the UAE.

For more information and how to support the project please visit www.springs15.com

About BTS UAE Army

BTS UAE Army was created and formed in August 2015 to show love and support for the seven-member K-pop group, BTS and their music, as well as gather and connect with other BTS ARMYs in the region and across the globe. Through the fan base, they share daily updates about the group and support projects and events related to BTS. 

About Springs 15

SPRINGS15 is a test-bed platform for individuals or small businesses seeking support to turn their creative ideas into reality.  The platform aims to assist creators by helping them test their ideas and connecting them with potential customers and supporters.  The platform provides a base to host projects from creative individuals from various fields including Arts and Crafts, Beauty, Fashion, Film and Photography, Food, Furniture and Design, Health and Diet, IT and Games, Kids, K-pop, Music, Pets, Publishing (Books, Comics, etc.), Travel, (Virtual) Events, etc. 

The post UAE BTS fans to build region’s first Kpop moving monument appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Last December, in cooperation with Vivz Fashion School , MM Milano showcased it’s latest sustainable fashion collection at Dubai World Fashion Week. Designed by Chona Bacaoco, a Filipina designer based in Milan, Italy, the dresses were made of natural and upscaled textiles like Hablon, Pineapple silk and recycled materials. The show has also brought together global talents from the US, UK, Switzerland, Romania and the Philippines. With inspirations from native flowers like the ‘Waling-Waling’, the audience cheered at the collection’s unique designs.

The dresses were accompanied by custom-made runway music, composed by Andréas Volkmar, who received the award for “Best Runway Music” by H.E. Sheikha Dr Hind Al Qassimi, H.E. Sheik Sultan Al-Qasimi, and H.E. Sheikh Dr. Saeed Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan.

Further awards were given to Schirin Alexa Thoma-Jugl for “Achiever Model of the Year”, Kayla Nicole Solis for “Charitable Model of the Year” and Natalia Angelina Spanhel for “Promising Model of the Year” alongside other famous awardees. Our young singer from Romania Maria Cristina Flăcău a.k.a. “Maya Rose” thrilled the crowd by performing her new single “Someone” supported by the local dance group PiNoy DXB Crew, and was awarded “Model & Artist of the Year”.

The event has also featured a number of advocacies through personalities like Olivia DePiore, a model of determination who used her runway career to raise awareness on Down Syndrome and surviving cancer.

Apart from the fashion show, the team, together with its global talents, carried out a photoshoot and fashion walk in the Dubai Desert.

“We, the MM Milano Team around are proud to announce that our MM Milano 3-Day-Event around Dubai World Fashion Week from 18-20 December 2020 has been a great success for our Brand and all our global talents coming together to form a conscious community in fashion, sustainability, and social responsibility. We thank everyone who helped to raise money for the Buklod Kalinga orphanage in the Philippines in partnership with Filipino football player Simone Rota, and are honored to have received the “Designer of the Year” award.”

“We are bringing together Global Talents and Sustainable Fabrics” Please find further information on our Brand and Agency on Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | Youtube | Twitter

The post MM Milano Showcases Latest Collection at Dubai World Fashion Week appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.