Illustrado interviews Lope Navo, Filipino International Fashion Photographer. Known for his work for Dior, L’officiel Hommes, Esquire and more, Navo shares his insights, personal story and artistic journey on this edition of Artist Spotlight.
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 wouldmemorize 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.
Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2020
The largest gathering of Filipino Game Changers, Legacy Honorees, Trailblazers, Thought Leaders and Tastemakers in the Gulf Region. We capture a slice of Philippine history in the region as told through Filipino stories of success.
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By Rhonson Ng – mountaineer, photographer and traveler.
At over 8km high, Mt. Everest is the tallest peak on the planet. Many adventurers and mountaineers place it at the top of their bucket list. Photographer, traveler and mountaineer Rhonson Ng shares his story and details the process of journeying towards Everest basecamp.
“It all started during my college days. I can say that the Everest Basecamp is on the top of every mountaineer’s bucket list. After 25 years, my dream of reaching the basecamp was finally set in motion with the help of my family, friends and sponsors; Fujifilm Philippines and MX3. With this, I planned a three-week journey to Nepal and began climbing the highest mountain in the world.”
Having set his plans in 2017, and with the motivation from friends and family, Rhonson took his first steps into accomplishing one of his lifelong goals. “I’m not getting any younger too, and I want to enjoy.” He added.
He first began by flying to Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. From then, he went on to Ramechapp, and then onto Lukla – the world’s most dangerous airport (famed for its extreme landing and harsh landscape surrounding it).
The nine-day journey involved a series of treks to different camps and settlements. An incredible, but taxing journey, he had to set days specifically for adjusting to the change in climate and altitude. Despite the amount of preparations, guide assistance, conditioning and loads of information, Rhonson recounts the change in altitude as the biggest test in climbing so far – affecting breathing, eating, sleeping and mental wellbeing all at once.
“Day six was Pangboche to Dingboche. Dingboche was at 4260 meters, and I’ve heard so many stories of climbers getting airlifted due to altitude sickness. At this point, I could feel the height affecting my breathing and causing minor headaches too.”
As with every great adventure, it wasn’t just the climb or process that made the journey, but also the people he met and the culture he experienced along the way. From finding a helpful local guide to befriending various climbers, stress was alleviated as relationships were forged and hardships were shared. Various aspects of Hindu and Buddhist culture dotted the landscape too, including many prayer flags and shrines.
On the day of April 28th 2019, Rhonson Ng finally reached the Mt. Everest Basecamp at 11:30am.
Another tick on his bucket list, he finally achieved his goal of reaching the basecamp of earth’s highest peak.
“As a travel and adventure photographer, the best parts for me were the breathtaking views of the mountains. You’d realize how small we are too from up there.”
“I would definitely encourage my fellow Pinoys to experience it, especially if you love adventures and mountaineering,” Rhonson says. With many places to go and even more sights to see, he urges travelers out there to keep traveling and sharing experiences with their peers. “It’s a privilege if you have the resources and time to travel. Not all you can do it, but those who can, will always share sceneries and stories. Keep the adventure alive within you.”
On adventuring – 5 tips to get you prepared
Do your research:
Research lies on top of the priority list. The internet is a bountiful place full of guides for all aspiring and experienced climbers out there. Through this, you know how to equip yourself, know what to bring and learn some handy tips from veteran climbers. Background information always comes in handy too!
Train hard:
After mentally preparing for your next adventure, physical training comes next. Climbs and hikes are arduous but rewarding journeys that require fortitude. Cardio is an absolute must, followed by lifting in order to build up stamina and muscular endurance. Depending on the destination, acclimatization training may be needed (especially when traveling up mountains).
Stay nourished and hydrated:
Food, hydration and a steady amount of oxygen are essentials in sustaining the body. Consider hearty, high energy foods and temperature regulating fluids (especially water and tea) as a lack of nutrition and oxygen can lead to depression and proneness to sickness.
Go at your own pace:
Things are always dangerous when rushed, resulting in things like exhaustion and extra stress. Adventures always take a physical toll on the body, so go at your own pace in order to minimize the damage.
Have fun:
As with all good adventures, it’s not the destination that’s rewarding, but all of the sights and people you see along the way. Interact with the locals, smell the flowers and be sure to take some nice photos to savor the experience!
For more information on mount Everest, visit the Nepali Tourism website.
The Making of the Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf
By Dr. Rex Venard Bacarra
I stayed hours after my shoot, astonished by the realization that Illustrado is doing the 300 against a multitude of storms and tempests, highlighting other people’s achievements while remaining in the background without conceit, and not for any other reasons, but that it is worth doing it.
Team Illustrado for 300 MIFG – Shot by Jef Anog
Right on the dot, I arrived.
What was magical, if not surreal, was the conscious appreciation that I was there for the photoshoot of a magazine known for its flawless reputation. And reputation, for people who are honest, is not just something. It is everything.
Alwee Villarosa’s fragile silhouette, creased by the embers of a dying cigarette held at the tips of his fingers, between exquisiteness and discomfort, loomed largely. Crushing the butt in the ashtray, he welcomed me with the now-familiar La Sallian, sing-song accent, “Dr. Rex, I missed you.” Kissing me on the cheek, he whispered rather nonchalantly, “Welcome to the photoshoot of the grandest and the biggest issue of Illustrado Magazine, the 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf, the Legacy Edition.” I chuckled. I thought that was a mouthful. Or rehearsed. But it was Alwee, whose brilliance, fragility, and pedigreed stance are a weapon. Every time he asks, I cannot say no. It doesn’t matter whether the request is mundane, or one that will proverbially rain on my parade. I. Cannot. Say. No. I simply drift on his sidewalk.
Lalaine Chu Benitez, Editor In Chief
He pointed me to a small door that opened, jaw-droppingly, to a massive beehive of photographers, models, assistants, and some who were deigned worthy of being in the 300, ready to take their share of the spotlight.
“Please wait for a while,” prompted Ms. Rony Aquino as she planted another kiss on my cheek. Her deep, rounded voice echoed with the gentle precision of someone who grew up in the military but realized that she is a nourishing mother. So, she left. For good. Untinged by regret.
Fiction. Of course. But that’s how I imagined her life story to be.
Mon Benitez, Creative Director
I didn’t mind. I was awed by how bustling the venue of the photoshoot was. Klieg lights complemented the massive white backdrop, accented by colorful but muted strips of camera lights. I watched them come – the trailblazers and thought leaders – and go – the tastemakers, and game-changers – with smiles waving like a pendulum in front of me, one person to another. Wherever I turned my head, excitement and glee were plastered on every face. It was as if they unearthed something invaluable like an heirloom found; it was as if an approving nod was finally bestowed upon them lesser mortals by some feared and mysterious gods. It was as if an opportunity of this type would never happen again for the tides could change, or the gods might decide to look somewhere else, unflinching in their decision, uncaring of the mortals’ pleadings.
The gentle and bespectacled patriarch with the youthful haircut, Mon Benitez, shook me out of my ponderings. The warmth of his voice couldn’t hide the colossal undertaking that the number 300 demanded. But I still have yet to see Mon shaken, or unnerved, or petrified. His calm demeanor helped held together 13 years of publication across 131 issues. His taste discriminates. His elegance enthralls. Now, this! 300 personalities given the poshest platform to inspire. To the uninitiated, the previous yearly 100 is aspirational. To the weakling, the current 300 is death-defying.
Rony C. Aquino, Admin
He pointed to the direction of his other half, the Matriarch whose attention-grabbing huge earrings were no match against her undeniable eloquence. She was busy interviewing Illac Diaz, whose Liter of Light project made him meaningfully famous than being an actor. She was in her element, exchanging ideas peppered with opinions that were sometimes acerbic, often encouraging, but mostly satisfying. Paradoxical, she is. She could be caring for one minute and intimidating the next. What is consistent, aside from her vision to help global Filipinos flourish, is how well-put she is: statuesque both in dignity and beauty. I consider her to be the face of Illustrado, for she has that rare combination of the savvy charm of Machiavelli, the greatness of Ozymandias, and the sublimely-intentioned advocate of all things Filipino. Projecting this bigger than life persona yielded her power, and she could gather the moneyed, the intellectuals, the moneyed who are also intellectuals, the selfless and the pretenders, the accomplished, and the wannabees, to where others could only dream of. Yet, she can be very vulnerable, easily hurt by the people she loves. She is truthful to those she values, her words often unvarnished, and she told me once, “they come from a good place in my heart.”
Alwee Villarosa, Features Editor
I didn’t want to disturb her, so I approached the visibly tired but still, and always, upbeat Paolo Gabriel Benitez, whom I usually mistake for his brother, Antonino Benitez. Postdating the generation that started Illustrado, I could surmise with the abundance of parental semblances that the premium Illustrado blood will continue to flow, that the legacy will remain steadfast, probably will even creatively push the boundaries of potential reform yet remain deeply-rooted in their parents’ DNA: championing the world-class Filipinos. Theirs is a family that dances between progressivism and the value-laden traditionalism, where “work hard and keep your mouth shut” mentality is frowned upon. And, luckily enough, the two greatly benefitted from their parents’ public intellectualism, resonated in their love for high aesthetics and constructivist art. In hindsight, between the two siblings, it’s Paolo who is increasingly becoming the mother. The more I interact with Paolo either in person or personal chats, the more I see – feel – Lalaine in him. But my spirit is kindred with Antonino’s. Like mine, his heart thumps words. A self-effacing TEDx speaker who’s impressively trilingual, his abstractions inform and persuade, a feat that few in his generation could claim.
I was curious to see how the small team behind the formidable Illustrado Magazine was able to gather these distinguished personalities, let alone the team of world-class photographers. It is not uncommon to see in every Illustrado event the award-winning Rozen Antonio who stuns and dazzles as a sought after fashion photographer; the debonaire Jef Anog, an accountant by profession who found his passion in glamour photography whose exhibits are as acclaimed as the muses he photographs; the dynamic Ace Reyes, whose works include many of the most respected brands in the UAE; the well-respected and extraordinary visual storyteller, Donell Gumiran, whose evocative portraits and travel photographs earned him numerous awards from all over the globe; the youthful Bethoven Filomeno who made a debut in this issue, whose works have been featured both in local and international magazines and is also an educator by profession; the international photographer Alex Callueng, whose editorial and commercial masterpieces landed on the pages of Vogue Arabia and Harpers’ Bazaar ME among notable others; and there’s Eros Goze, who photographed dignitaries, celebrities, models, leaders, and ordinary persons who have stories to tell, earning him the moniker, ‘The People’s Photographer.’
Then there’s the fashion crew – the forecasters, the trendsetters, and the stylists – the industry’s giants: The MetroSapiens – Khel Recuenco and Ivan Cabatit who are certified University of Arts London Personal Stylists and co-founders of Style Curators-Dubai; Central Saint Martin’s London certified Gweys Soriano had styled the likes of Celine Dion and German-Turkish actress Meryem Uzerli; make-up artist Mau Piodena IV, whose clients also include both local and international brands; Ron Babao and Jaemie Limbo, who handled significant brands in the industry; the nuanced Hyku Desesto of Hyku D Photography, a good friend of mine, who has collaborations that are the envy of many- Vogue Arabia, Burberry, D&G, and Netflix, to name a few; and then there’s Melon Quinzon Perez, the top-notch director whose obsession for challenges won her several directorial and film awards at the Emirates Short Film Festival.
Paolo Benitez, Brand Manager
For this Legacy Issue, they came in full force, willfully. They came asking nothing in return, for they knew what Illustrado aspires for. They see the whole picture, not just the magazine’s mythologized glory. They understand what it collectively represents, not just their own accomplishments. Artists, by their very ethos, are always willing to support the worthwhile because they knew that selfless contribution yields the most profound joy.
On the one hand, it is believability. Believability breeds credibility. Credibility stems from truthfulness. It is not surreal but divine, not uncanny but sublime, to say that Illustrado is truthful, credible, and believable. If not, it won’t be able to gather exceptional talents and world-class achievers in one room. If not, it won’t generate a sense of urgency and enthusiasm from those selected. If not, its popularity will be an offense to what is good. The fact that it isn’t and bitter haters are but a dime, people know in the privacy of their hearts that nothing is more believable among Filipino lifestyle platforms in the Gulf in existence today than Illustrado itself.
Antonino Benitez, Content Associate
On the other hand, is its philosophy. When I first saw the magazine, I immediately grasped what it wanted to become- to promote the Filipino identity in a distinctive approach: glossy, premium, and sincere. A social enterprise, the team calls it, and not your usual gossip-mongering and click-baiting vulgarities. It aims to nurture genuine Filipino talents and recognize achievements. It inspires; just read its content. It amazes; just feel how premium it is. It encourages; just watch its journey and how it opens the doors to those who dream.
True, the journey to 300 is an act of magnanimity. 100 has become limiting as more Filipinos, some inspired by the examples of the hundred, are creating impact. Yet, to a team of six, the task could be daunting. I would imagine bloody days and nights conceptualizing, brainstorming, deciding, gathering, seeking, asking, and editing. Artists and intellectuals don’t necessarily see eye to eye. The former are generally emotional—the latter, rational. Emotions could run high, and certain holes could gape. Such could be the narrative of the journey that led to 300.
But it isn’t.
Illustrado Magazine permeates a positivity of the genuine kind. Its sincerity is but an overflow from the team. The outcome does not contradict the source. It is of high quality because the team is. It is positive because the team is. The Legacy edition is bound to be amazing because the team and its extended family are.
I stayed hours after my shoot, astonished by the realization that Illustrado is doing the 300 against a multitude of storms and tempests, highlighting other people’s achievements while remaining in the background without conceit, and not for any other reasons, but that it is worth doing it.
I left. Not right on the dot. But my thoughtful experience made it even more magical. Even more surreal.
DR. REX VENARD BACARRA
Professor of Philosophy at the American College of Dubai, multi-awarded educator RexVenard Bacarra says of himself – “I may be bad in folding a fitted sheet and horrible in parallel parking. But, I am excellent in chewing the maggots of the philosophical universe. Maybe…” True to form, this modern-day ‘Filosopo Tasio” shares with us his thoughts on a myriad of relevant topics – this time, shedding light on the team and the intentions behind the much-celebrated Illustrado initiative. Follow Dr. Rex Bacarra on Twitter: @rexbacarra
CREDITS:
Team Illustrado (L-R): Paolo Gabriel (Content Associate), Rony Aquino (Community Mgr), Lalaine Chu-Benitez (Editor-in-Chief), Ramon Benitez (Creative Director), Alwee Villarosa (Features Editor), Antonino Benitez (Content).
Photo by Jef Anog; Shot at Vast Vogue Studio – Dubai Stylists: Metrosapiense – Khel Recuenco and Ivan Cabatit; Gweys Soriano; Hair, Make-Up and Grooming: Mau Pinodena IV; Lalaine’s Custom Dress: Angel Villiar de Jesus – Marocha-Ricci, Dubai
Very few would be able to achieve what he has accomplished in their entire lifetime. And an even rarer set could say that they have put their own stamp across 40 countries in the world, including the planning of the city of Dubai. But legendary architect, urban planner, and humanitarian Felino “Jun” Palafox Jr. takes it all in stride with the utmost gratefulness.
“I was very fortunate to lead, coordinate, and be involved in projects across 40 countries in the built environment through architecture, urban planning, master planning, urban design, and environmental planning, among others in our country, Dubai, and the rest of the Gulf.” He says. “The buildings, cities, and communities I have planned and designed and help develop are sustainable, resilient, connected, walkable, bikeable, safe, convenient, cross-income and cross-generational that integrate places to live, work, shop, dine, and worship with healthcare and wellness centers with some 24-hour cycle activity centers.”
As part of his lasting legacy, he shares his learnings through publishing books, over 700 articles, as well as doing lectures, presentations, and speeches, both locally and internationally.
An architect for humanity who has also championed the creation of dwellings for the underprivileged around the globe, he hopes to be remembered as a Global Green Architect. He says. “One of my key principles is people first or social equity followed by planet earth or the environment; profit or economic prosperity; and then culture, history or heritage, and inter-faith spirituality. Every project I worked on should be Pro Deo, Patria et Terra — for God, Country, and Planet Earth.”
“Plan and design a garden city out of the desert. A pacesetter city that will lead, and not be led.” In 1977 architect and urban planner Felino ‘Jun’ Palafox, Jr. and his team were given that mandate by the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum of this flourishing city by the creek. Over forty years on, Dubai, the place that he helped built stands proud as one of most illustrious and progressive places in the world.
Very few men have the honor of being a part of planning and building something as exceptionally significant as a city that is admired across the globe. Palafox is one of those rare people. Handpicked and appointed as Senior Planner under the Dubai Municipality back in the 70s, at 27 he was the youngest and the only Southeast Asian member of the multidisciplinary international team of architects, planners, engineers, landscape architects, and designers, tasked with the urban planning, architecture, and environmental design of Dubai.
After leaving the city in the ‘80s, he together with the team he formed under Palafox Architecture and Palafox Associates (PALAFOX), have gone on to do projects in 40 countries: 1,557 projects for architecture and design of 14 million square meters of building floor area, and 27 billion square meters of planning for the past 29 years. Through the years, he also kept coming back to Dubai to do architecture and master planning projects, while also working for the SM Group and the Ayala Corporation. Currently, among their other projects elsewhere in the world, the Palafox team are planning and designing a hotel mixed-use project in Dubai. Palafox was also a speaker at the international conference of the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), held in Dubai last October 2018.
He shares of his special connection to the city, “Every time I go back here, I am so inspired and grateful that I was part of the urban planning and architecture of Dubai. There is so much “psychic income.” I shared my education, experience, and expertise. Today, I go to Dubai to share and learn.”
Professional and commercial successes aside, Palafox is a fervent humanitarian. Working with organizations Gawad Kalinga, Urban Poor Assoicates, Tzu Chi Foundation among others, he and his team help build dwellings in the Philippines and abroad for typhoon and earthquake-stricken communities, as well as for indigenous people and informal settlers. This, among his other advocacy works are part of what he calls “architecture for humanity” – in essence providing architectural solutions for humanitarian crises.
Espousing the concept of “psychic and/or spiritual income” as something more fulfilling than just monetary rewards, Palafox shares, “We show our gratitude to the Chief Creator by using education, expertise, and experience towards the good stewardship of His blessings.”
With the COVID-19 pandemic severely hurting many companies worldwide, small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), are among the worst hit. While governments tackle the complicated job of re-opening the markets while cases still continue unabated, the question remains: how can small businesses with limited resources recover? The answer is critical as small businesses account for two-thirds of the globe’s jobs and half of its GDP. In the UAE, this translates to more than 98 percent of the total number of companies operating in the country, with SMEs contributing 52 percent of the non-oil GDP.
“When this crisis hit, the majority of businesses were concerned about keeping their employees healthy and secure, which means providing them their daily needs,” says corporate law expert Atty. Barney Almazar. “The government has made a directive showing what we can do and what we cannot do, but of course, this is within the prerogative of the employer.”
So, during this time of crisis, how are SMEs coping in the UAE, and what can entrepreneurs do to rise above the challenges? Illustrado hosted a livestream discussion amongst entrepreneurs and business leaders from a variety of sectors to get valuable insights that SMEs can learn from, and here are the main points.
Watch the full livestream here:
1. PROTECT YOUR PEOPLE AND KEEP IN TOUCH WITH PARTNERS
a. Take care of the health and welfare of your workforce.
Ishwar Chugani, Retail Industry Leader, CEO Giordano ME
“We want to make sure that they are safe and well taken care of,” says Ishwar Chugani, CEO and Managing Director of Giordano Middle East, which operates over 200 stores in 23 countries from their headquarters in Dubai. “At this point in time, I communicate with them, and I have to make sure that everyone is okay. Although expenses continue, we are looking at paid salaries this April – the important thing is we have to make sure that they have enough to live and survive.”
“I am where I am today because of my people,” says Chugani. He also cautions entrepreneurs from making drastic decisions in laying off staff, mindful that the markets and businesses are set to eventually re-open. “To get new people and to restart would be more expensive. We just need to focus on getting things done and then restart.”
Mary Jane Alvero, Group CEO of Prime Group
Mary Jane Alvero, Group CEO of Prime Group, leading quality and compliance solutions provider in Asia, Middle East, and North Africa, meanwhile, admits that they weren’t affected much in this pandemic because they are into the construction business and laboratory services. However, Alvero says that they have created a centralized emergency response team related to the outbreak. “We believe that in this way, we could protect our customers and at the same time, we could protect our people,” She adds that part of their business continuity plan is to minimize the visitors, test consultants, suppliers, and customers.
b. Reskill your employees or reassign and redistribute tasks in response to the current market situation.
Iman Suguitan, CEO Ahsant, & Co Chocolat
Adopting to the current situation in some cases requires teaching your staff new skills, or reassigning them to handle other functions. According to Iman Suguitan, Founder and Managing Director of Ahsant Premium Hotel Supplies and Co-Chocolat, “Those people who used to deal with sourcing leather, for example, are now re-deployed to deliver chocolates,” says social entrepreneur Iman Suguitan. “We focus now on enhancing the customer journey, the customer experience like re-skilling. This is important even when the pandemic first blew up in China, So what we did was to keep everyone busy, and I think we are adapting.
c. Allow your employees to work from home.
Atty. Barney Almazar, a partner at Gulf Law, says that for both parties to make this current situation work, employers can just make their employees work from home. This is a win-win situation since the businesses would still be earning money while at the same time, providing salaries to their employees. At the time of writing, in Dubai, private sector companies are allowed to have only 30% of their workforce in offices, the rest have to work from home.
d. If salary cuts or unpaid leave is unavoidable, do it lawfully.
Atty Barney Almazar, Gulf Law
Atty. Almazar says that if paying full salaries for employers is not possible, employees may be asked to go on unpaid leave, or given salary cuts. He explains, however, that this should be mutually agreed upon. “The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has given a form which they could easily download and have to sign – together with their employer – if they agree on unpaid leave or a temporary reduction of salary,” he says. “In this way, parties are both protected. We also try to advise our clients to have an amicable settlement, but if they can’t agree, then the company has two options: to keep them under the payroll and pay them under the contract without reduction, or they can just let them go. For the employee who has been let go, think of options. If they are let go, they could look for another job when the lockdown is lifted.”
Albert Tranquilino, Managing Director, Darcey Flowers
e. Communicate openly with your staff and partners and share challenges.
“I do believe they are their heart and soul of the company,” says Albert Tranquilino, the Managing Director of Darcey Flowers. “I secure their future. Although we stopped operations, we use this time to be calm and to add some best value to our company. We try to be more creative and innovative, and productive too. I was also able to use this time to speak with my business networks and suppliers just to send my greetings, especially during these trying times.”
What Can Small Business Do to Cope with Covid-19?
2. MITIGATE LOSSES AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AVAILABLE RELIEF
a. Take advantage of whatever relief packages are available to help liquidity. Talk to your bank.
The UAE Central Bank has recently announced a Dh256 billion Targeted Economic Support Scheme (TESS) to equip banks to extend support to private sector companies and individuals affected by the crisis. Entrepreneurs are advised to talk to their banks to see how they can benefit from the initiative, whether in the form of loans, deferment of payments, or other support.
“When it comes to renegotiating with the banks, we are classifying the situation of the client,” says Atty. Almazar. “There are those without any default, and that means they have higher chances of having favorable restructuring terms and conditions. However, those who have issues with the banks can also renegotiate. There will just be additional things that we will have to do to prove to the bank that they can cope, considering the situation.”
b. Check out government stimulus measures that can help reduce the cost of doing business and also simplify processes.
Among many other measures to ease business in the emirates, the government has also suspended the collection of administrative fines, and for companies with up to 6 employees, there is a reduction of work permit fees. Foreign companies, moreover, can apply a refund up to 50% of the bank guarantees they have paid for each of their employees, so that will be a big help on their cash flows. Those who are in trading have a 20% refund on customs duty paid for goods being sold in the UAE, according to Atty. Almazar.
The government is also giving extensions in renewing licenses, fines, and penalties, depending on which free zone the company is registered. Sharjah is offering an extension of up to 3 months for fees, and also condone fines at the start of the year. Dubai has several free zones that give a form of discount when license fees are paid in advance, so somehow this will also be beneficial to the cash flow. Other emirates are providing an extension, and the accumulation of fines has also been suspended.
Edwin Duria, Managing Director of Play Middle East Business Consultancy and Ambassador of Business Network International
“SMEs can also pay their license fees on installment,” says Atty. Almazar. “The surcharge per installment payment has been waived so this would be very helpful for businesses. They can make a staggered payment.”
Edwin Duria, Managing Director of Play Middle East Business Consultancy and Ambassador of Business Network International (BNI), adds that despite the lockdown, authorities are working online. “Businesses can renew their license online and work on different structures and promotions,” he says. “All they need to know is to check it. The discount depends on the structure and the activity and that the options depend upon the structure.”
c. Raise money by selling off non-core assets.
For companies under tremendous financial pressure, especially those faced with having to lay off employees, Atty. Almazar suggests looking at non-core assets that they have, which they can use to augment their cash flow. He said, “Just last week, we did some asset swap where we sold some of the assets of the companies so that they would be free of debt, and that they would be in a better position.”
d. Negotiate with landlords and suppliers to get more convenient payment terms/relief provisions.
At a time when most businesses are under tremendous pressure, it pays to talk candidly with your landlord and suppliers to strike a deal that will allow for business continuity and would help out both parties. “If you have a difficult time paying, the court can mitigate the situation, lessen the rent or impose that the tenant pays the rent,” says Atty. Almazar. “But that has to be in court.” He emphasizes that it’s in the best interest of both parties to negotiate and have a mutual agreement that will help and benefit one another.
With the imminent opening of shops around the emirates, Ishwar Chugani says part of their priorities is to discuss with the shopping malls and various retailers on what they can do for the tenants and what options they can offer, considering that it will take time for consumers to feel comfortable again to go shopping – even if businesses open tomorrow.
3. PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE AND KEEP AN EYE FOR OPPORTUNITIES
a. Use this time to learn and plan for recovery – how you will operate when the lockdown is done.
Mary Jane Alvero, shares, “We have established a business continuity plan that has given us the vision for the next six months. Every week, we regularly review this and see if it needs changes since there are new regulations every day. Even if we already have a short-term plan, we make it a point to update what we are going to do since our projects are related to the government.”
b. Covid-19 will not go away overnight, and as a result, consumer attitudes and preferences, as well as new consumption models are on the rise.
Even after the lifting of lockdowns, and as markets reopen slowly, it is understandable that people will be uncomfortable to go out of their homes for fear of getting the virus. Businesses need to learn and adjust to these new circumstances. As an off-shoot of the crisis, there will be a growing preference for contactless operations, home services, work-from-home, as well as the continued rise in e-commerce.
“The situation post-COVID will be very different,” says Chugani. “We have to be ready for it. It’s going to be a bit contactless; people will still have a lot of fear going out. People will have a lot of fear about meeting other people. But we are also looking at new business opportunities. We need to have a very different mindset. We have to start and reset based on the new economy.”
Joan Tuaño, Culinary Business Manager, La Carne Premium Meat
Joan Tuaño, Culinary Head at their family enterprise La Carne Premium Meat, says business is doing well, with people staying at home and opting for home-cooked meals. She shares, “We transformed to a delivery-only shop,” she says. “Lucky enough, we have already set up our online store way in advance. We just had to tune out the physical aspect of our store, and we had to just focus on the delivery. Now we deliver across the emirates. Interestingly, we have turned into something beautiful, and now we are managing customer expectations.”
Iman Suguitan, also emphasizes on the importance of enhancing online channels, “It’s good that we have our online shop for Co Chocolat and that we are also active in our Instagram accounts.”
c. Keep an eye for new opportunities resulting from the new reality.
Despite the current crisis and uncertainty in the markets, these entrepreneurs are positive that there are still opportunities for SMEs. Duria, whose company helps in the establishment of businesses in the emirates, shares, “There have been a lot of licenses, especially in the freelance businesses, as well as new companies related to IT, web designing and e-commerce. This is the trending activity because of the lockdown. Visa-wise, we are gathering a lot of info, collaborating with lawyers, monitoring news from the government, and gathering a lot of deep info so that we can spread information not only to my clients but to the community. We are very busy right now doing some collaboration, preparing our relaunching after all the COVID situation is over. We are learning a lot online, and we are using this opportunity to learn, strategize, and collaborate with our network.”
Alvero, meanwhile, plans to expand her business moving forward. She adds, “I am positive that whatever is happening now, there will be a lot of opportunities that will come up in the future. More entrepreneurs will come in the future because of this crisis. For our discovery plan, we are also coming up with a new business expansion that will be under the group. We will go to the manufacturing side.”
4. DETERMINE THE “NEW NORMAL” AND HOW YOUR COMPANY WILL ADAPT OR PIVOT.
With this current situation, how do SMEs expect to operate in the near future? According to Duria, people will continue to use online technology for even more extensive communication seven after Covid-19. “We have never used Zoom before, but now we are using a lot of that. I believe that we will use this and other methods of online communication regularly for our businesses,” he says. “Transaction-wise, however, I think everything will go back to normal once the government goes back to normal work.”
For Tuaño, what is happening is a very humbling experience for everyone and has changed a lot of people. She adds that with this crisis, businesses should think more about how to become more sustainable. “Is your business environmentally and socially sustainable?” she asks. “Is what you are doing something that people need for basic living? Are you able to adapt to the needs of the people? We need to go back to the basics. This is the time that creative modeling starts to happen. You can have the time to sell your unique proposition. I think it is going to be about simplicity and quality – less is more.”
“We have learned a lot from this crisis,” says Alvero. “After analyzing the impact of this crisis, I believe that it is high time that we diversify our businesses. The most important thing about this crisis is that you learn how to give importance to every detail that happens in our personal life, in the business, in our careers, and in the community. In the end, we all have to give back.”
Atty. Almazar says after the COVID-19 crisis, they still see a lot of remote work, which would stay for around 4 to 7 months after the government has relaxed the measures. According to him, there will be a lot of government spending, and that banks, meanwhile, will be working on helping to restructure industries like the tourism sector, helping it to adjust according to the new needs of the customers.
“The new norm that we will be seeing is that people will still continue to work on their businesses, but in different ways,” he says. “There will be improvements. For example, now you can notarize your documents through video conferencing. These changes can also be carried on after we have normalized. We get the best things out of this situation, use them and move forward.”
Suguitan adds, “If you can’t go outside, go inside. This situation is a good time to be quiet and reflect. This is not to create fear but to create a sense of calm that there are more important things than what we used to take pride in before.”
PHOTOGRAPHER: Irvin Rivera / graphicsmetropolis.com
MODELS:
Kendall Galan @No Ties
Jesse Somera @Photogenics
PRODUCTION MANAGER: Ryan Domigpe
PRODUCTION ASST: Francis Gum
ASST PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Darwin Abad
Ben Kui
STYLIST: James Juarez
ASST STYLIST: Victor Jonas
MAKE-UP ARTIST: Tokiko Inoue
HAIRSTYILIST: Nina Jo
VIDEOGRAPHER/EDITOR:
Manuel Quintanilla / cinematikartizan.com
FASHION:
ALBERT ANDRADA
ANTHONY FRANCO
EZRA
IBAY’S
LILLIAN SHALOM
OLIMA ATELIER
YEN RED AB
ASHTON MICHAEL
ZARA
THAT’S THEFFT
LUXE DE VILLE VINTAGE
KATHRYN AMBERLEIGH
BENCH
SILVERWORKS
AIISHA RAMADAN
DIOR
ARTURO RIOS
Comme De Garçon
FAUBOURG DU TEMPLE
NICOLAS JEBRAN
AUGUST FIELD
ARTURO RIOS
SHOWROOMS:
STYLE PR
For The Stars Fashion House
Fashion Forwards
Olima Atelier
Soundtrack: Angkor Wat Theme – Shigeru Umebayashi, In the Mood for Love
Illac Diaz, through Liter of Light, the first global Filipino NGO which he has founded, has brought light to millions of poor families across the globe, and in doing so has also advocated a more progressive narrative for the Filipino people – that of a benefactor nation well capable to contribute solutions to the problems of the world.
A social entrepreneur and campaigner for progress, Illac has developed sustainable technology, bringing solar – powered illumination to impoverished families with little or no access to electricity. His grass roots platform which has hubs in 30 countries, and is supported by some 1,400 volunteers has lighted some 1.5 million homes across the world. Liter of Lights’ open source technology has been recognized by the United Nations and is also used in some UNHCR camps. The foundation has also received the St. Andrews Prize for the Environment (2016) and the World Habitat Award (2014-2015). In the UAE, Illac has received the Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP) in 2015 and facilitated a world record ‘The Largest Environmental Sustainability Lesson’ with the support of the ZFEP. He is set to showcase Liter of Light’s initiatives at the Dubai Expo 2020 as one of the grant recipients whose work will be showcased at the landmark event.
From creating sustainable solutions to igniting a worldwide movement, Illac Diaz tirelessly works to help the impoverished while demonstrating that the Philippines is an innovative nation, and its people, a globally competitive force that can lead.
Stunning the crowd once more, Michael Cinco recently unveiled his new impalpable collection at the Burj Khalifa – inspired by the works of Gustav Klimt. Read on as Rex Bacarra recounts his experience at the extravagant runway show, attended by European Royalty.
Nobody dares to blink when two icons collide.
Michael Cinco and the Burj Khalifa. Two icons in a breathtaking moment. One majestically towering over Dubai, confounding the eyes with its facade of silver and crystal glittering as in candlelight, the other proudly towering over the fashion metropolis of the UAE. In the United Arab Emirates, Burj Khalifa is the most visited bucket list find, and the Michael Cinco shows are the most coveted. Both mesmerize, and everybody in the fashion industry knows why.
It baffles me why it took so long for this moment to happen. Of course, Giorgio Armani made his Dubai debut against the iconic backdrop featuring his Spring 2022 collection and couture pieces from his Armani Privé early this year. Still, one that is decidedly “homegrown” by an artist who started and made his mark in Dubai was waiting to happen until Michael Cinco’s The Impalpable Dreams at the Burj Khalifa happened. This alone is a cause both for celebration and commemoration. In global business, they call it the first-mover advantage. In fashion, just like in science, we may be brave to call it a Copernican revolution. An homage to Copernicus, who led the shift from a geocentric understanding of our known universe to heliocentric. One that starts. One where others are bound to follow. Indeed, not just the first Filipino but the first Dubai-based fashion designer to hold a show against the tallest tower in the world.
Both the Burj Khalifa and the Michael Cinco brand are in the business of maximalism, a shy away from being ostentatious. Both are by-products of creative imagination when money is no question yet disciplined in aesthetics. There is control to their superlative luxury; this is why even if both are known to be opulent, highly embellished, and expensive, they exude elegance and tasteful sophistication. When fashion has control, like Michale Cinco’s aesthetics, it defines what true elegance is. It doesn’t just make you admire the wearer, but makes you fall in love. Immediately. There are no apprehensive pauses on what to say. There is only beautiful language in an instant.
The first silhouette appeared a few musical bars after. It signaled a series of more silhouettes in varying degrees of embellishments, of splashes of colors in turquoise, gold, powdery blue, sequined in silver and gold. Then there was the gown with a décolletage collar (or a sweetheart!) which I mentally noted as the ‘first of the fuchsias,’ a phrase I fondly use in this regard as a transitory piece that allows for a fluid transition from cerulean pieces that precede it to mostly indigo after it. A clever choice. In writing, fluidity means using prepositional phrases. In fashion shows, fluidity means creating an equally important, and often stunning, transitional piece that allows the eyes to move along from one theme to another, without jarring the mind. Many designers make the mistake of abruptly intervening an 8-piece theme, for example, when transitioning to another. A designer must never do it, unless pure theater is at the core of its audacious intent to enthrall and shock the audience. The last designer to go against the almost sacred fluid rhythm of transition is Alexander McQueen in his reptilian 2010 Spring-Summer show, where the iconic armadillo shoes were birthed.
There are the stunningly poetic pieces inspired by the art and life of symbolist Austrian painter, and probably the most famous Vienna Secession movement member, Gustav Klimt, famous for his artwork- Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer. Male and female models strutted the colors of Klimt’s golden phase, so-called because of the heavy use of gold leaf. Just like many of Klimt’s highly-sought paintings, the dresses and suits of Michael Cinco were reflective of the artist’s exceptional decorative works. As the artist himself proclaimed, “Probably the ultimate stage of my development of ornament.” They are stunning not just because these particular pieces could be mistaken as a faithful extension of Klimt’s idealism in the threads of fashion, but because the painter’s life to some extent uncannily resembles Michael’s: they are devoted to art, to their families, and both are highly selective.
Brand Founders Michael Cinco & Dr. Sayed Ali
Fashion connoisseurs gasped and rose with thunderous applause when Michael Cinco appeared to close the show. The shy demeanor is still there. This self-consciousness is what makes him an enigma to most people, unused to the idea of a world-class designer whose public persona – unassuming and unaffected by the trappings of success – contrasts against his often voluminous, crystal-studied, and breathtakingly expensive gowns.
My eyes darted from Michael to the Burj Khalifa, and back. The thunderous applause is unable to drown them. Both, indeed, are larger than life. Both, indeed, are mesmerizingly timeless.
