Illustrado Magazine – Filipino Abroad

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Travel Tips from Locals in Your Fave Cities: Seoul, South Korea

Fast-moving and progressive in fields like technology and fashion, yet remaining true to tradition and heritage – Seoul, South Korea’s capital and urban heartbeat is a must-visit for your next city getaway. Home to the world’s speediest internet and some of the most diverse ethnic enclaves, only do you find enormous skyscrapers – like the Lotte World Tower – soaring over ancient temples – such as the Gyeongbokgung palace – in a city like Seoul. Dr. Rebecca Desiderio lived in Seoul for a year with her family, while her husband worked for an airline based in Korea. Having the privilege for R&R and time to travel as a stay at home working-mom, she shares her tips for enjoying in the 600-year-old cosmopolitan city.

Before you go

Lose weight before coming to Korea! The food is so good; it is impossible not to eat a lot! Your clothes will depend on the season of course, though for me the best season to travel is during Autumn. The colors are so vibrant, the wind is cold but not freezing, and the sun is always up. Plus, the OOTD you get to wear during Autumn is superb against the flashes of orange, yellow, red, green and brown!

Must do’s and must see’s

There are so many places to see and things to do in Korea. Here are some attractions worth checking out.

Gyeongbokgung Palace. Getting to tour the place while also wearing the lovely and dainty Hanbok is a fun experience! You will feel transported to the era of Korean Dynasties.

Myeongdong Shopping District is a must. Try to book your hotel near this area because it will be more convenient. Most tour pick-ups and drop-offs are in Myeongdong. One day is not enough to have a shopping spree in this area. Here, there are thousands of shops, especially those that sell beauty products. You just might go crazy over facial masks and CC creams! They also have food market stalls that open from 4 pm.

Trick Eye Museum is fun and insta perfect.

DMZ or the Demilitarized Zone – this site gives you a glimpse into one of the longest wars in the world that divided a country. You can see North Korea just behind the fence.

Nami Island, Garden of the Morning Calm – this tour is famous because its seen in a lot of Korean Dramas. Perhaps a little overrated for me – though in Autumn, it would be nice to see. Not in the wintertime, however.

What to avoid

Korea is very safe, and the people here are very helpful. Although speaking English is difficult for most, people try their very best to assist.

One thing to take note of is that they are very strict about health declarations here. Thus, if you are not feeling well and have the flu, I advise you to postpone your travel. Customs officers at the airport might stop you at the quarantine area in immigration. Moreover, they are also very particular with trash segregation all throughout the country. Be very aware of which waste basket you put your trash in. Littering and not segregating trash properly is frowned upon. You may even be reprimanded.

On public transport, seats are allotted to pregnant women and the elderly. Do not take these seats.

Traveling on a budget

Haha, no saving tips in travel, and not in Korea. Go all out, shop, eat, and enjoy your matcha tea! If I would say one thing, take the train not taxis. The train is genuinely the best way to travel, and it doesn’t cost that much. They are efficient, on time, and very clean.

Best foods and places to eat

Korean food is very distinct. Ranging from spicy to sweet, the food presentation is also insta perfect! Try their cakes and breads; they are to die for!

Soft Tofu Stew or Soondubu Jigae – usually cooked in an earthen pot, with soft tofu much like taho in a delicious fish stock base with little beef. Then you get to add shellfish, hot pepper, eggs, beef strips.

Ox Bone soup or Seolleongtang is extremely popular in Korea. They boil the beef bones for hours on end to release the calcium, which gives the soup a very distinct white color. This is the beefiest tasting soup you can ever have (our nilaga/bulalo version but with a white non-clear soup base).

Tteokbokki – streets of Korea are filled with this white cylindrical rice cake. It comes with a variety of sauces – spicy, sweet, etc. It’s like the Philippines’ galapong with sauces – Koreans are crazy about this!

Chicken Porridge or the Dakjuk – very similar to our arrozcaldo, however, they serve it with a whole chicken and the rice is inside the chicken. The soup base bursts with garlic flavor.

Korean Fried Chicken – forget about KFC! When you bite into the chicken, you will be surprised by the amount of flavor it has. The chicken is coated in a sticky, sweet, and spicy red sauce, while the batter is unbelievably crispy. This is a must-try.

Bibimbap – bibim means mixed, and bap means rice, thus the name. This is served with a spicy red Korean sauce called gochujang, rice with lots of veggies, beef, and an egg on top. It is impossible not to be addicted to this.

Hidden Gems

Check out the lovely parks in Seoul. There are no entrance fees, and they’re clean as well as insta perfect. Moreover, eat at restaurants along the streets, rather than at fancy restaurants because they truly serve the best. Street food is clean and so fun as well. Visit the little local shops you see along the road, including the traditional tea houses – they serve many types of teas – both cold and hot. Another shopping destination to visit is the Terminal Bus Station (take the train from Myeongdong, or any other train station). The whole underground section is full of clothing stores.

Kabayan comforts

I don’t get to see a lot of kabayans, but they do have communities at the churches. They usually have picnics as well as a Filipino market every Sunday near the Catholic Church in downtown Seoul. There they sell a lot of Filipino food and products as well.

Other essential info

If you come in winter, try the Ski camps. There are ski camps near Seoul and mountains you can drive to for fantastic views in autumn or spring. For skiing, travelers can experience the hugely popular resort culture. Resorts are equipped with everything you can dream of (even an indoor swimming pool for winter). They offer basic and advanced ski lessons.

If you choose to visit the mountain ranges during spring and cherry blossom season, this time of the year is also breathtakingly beautiful. It usually lasts just for a week or two so better watch out in advance for predicted bloom time. You will also get to taste, cherry blossom tea, cherry blossom flavored coffee, red bean cake with lovely cherry blossom decor.

It’s very important to remember that on your trip, emphasis should be placed on having fun and experiencing the culture. Try not to overbook your day with so many things to the point that you don’t have enough time to enjoy the place. Sit under a tree, feel the breeze, close your eyes, and look at the dainty flowers on the green grass. Try to have friendly conversations with the locals. Who knows, you might even get an extra discount (I always get away with freebies and discounts just by smiling and saying kamsahamnida).

Lastly, learn one or two basic Korean greetings like “annyeong” and “kamsahamnida.” It is just nice and polite for a foreigner to know the basic way of saying thank you and hello in the local language.

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December 27, 2020
Filipino Brisbane – Travel Tips from Locals in your Favorite Cities

Brisbane, A.K.A. Brissie, is the bustling waterside capital of Queensland, Australia. Even with sites like Southbank and Brisbane’s CBD fueling the city’s social and cultural pulse, this contemporary metropolis still retains an unwavering connection with nature – apparent with spots like the city’s Botanic Gardens and Mt. Coot-Tha – and that laid-back Queensland lifestyle. Boyet Damot – a contracts and commercial management professional in the construction industry – gives us a glimpse of what it is to be like a local in Brisbane.

Before you go

Filipino passport holders require a valid tourist visa to visit Australia. Philippine Airlines operate non-stop direct flights from Manila-Brisbane four times weekly.

Bear in mind that because Australia in the southern hemisphere, seasons here are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. December to February is summer; March to May is autumn; June to August is winter, and September to November is spring. So, make sure to bring the right clothes for the right season.

It doesn’t snow in Brisbane, but winters can be rather cold reaching as low as 9 degrees Celsius. Brisbane’s coldest temperature recorded in history was at 2.6 degrees Celsius. Brisbane summers can be scorching and humid like Manila weather.

Must do’s and must see’s

Australia is not just a country, but a continent! The must do’s and must see’s are varied and depend on which part of Australia you visit.

If you have only 2 days in Brisbane, be sure to visit Queen Street Mall at the CBD which has a collection of department stores, boutique shops, and restaurants that cater to a range of culinary preferences (traditional Australian, Mediterranean, and Asian). Also in the CBD is King George Square, which is the city’s premier public square, and the City Botanic Gardens.

A leisurely 15-minute walk from the CBD is Southbank, Brisbane’s premier cultural and lifestyle destination popular among tourists and locals. Southbank is located across the Brisbane River and can be reached via Victoria Bridge.

Aside from a waterfront cycling and walking track, Southbank has free public “beach style” swimming pools, cafes, casual and fine dining restaurants, pubs, as well as lush green spaces with free BBQ facilities. Southbank is also home to the Queensland Museum, the Gallery of Modern Art and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. If you are visiting in November this year, catch Leah Salonga in concert at the QPAC. Southbank also has an IMAX Cinema if you want to catch the latest Hollywood movies.

If you have 3 days or more in Brisbane, be sure to visit Mount Coot-Tha (7 km west of Brisbane). You can take a taxi or uber to Mount Coot-Tha (the fare would be between $20-$35 depending on the time of day) or the public bus (Translink Bus 471).

The Lookout at Mount Cootha commands a panoramic view of the city. Enjoy the view while enjoying an espresso, a light snack, or lunch at either the Kuta Cafe or The Summit Restaurant.

Mount Coot-Tha has several hiking trails ranging from “easy” to “challenging.” A total of 20 kilometers of trails are designated for off-road cyclists with undisturbed trails for mountain bike riders. For the adventurous, there are even trails designated for horseback riding.

Before heading back to the city, visit the Sir Thomas Planetarium at the foot of Mount Coot-Tha and discover the secrets of the universe! Admission is free except for shows at the Cosmic SkyDome. Finish the day at the Botanical Gardens (different from the City Botanic Gardens in the CBD) – admission is also free.

If you still have some time during your stay, take a leisurely cruise around Brisbane River on board any of the CityCat or CityHopper boats and hop on/off at any of the stops to explore the area. Hop off at Kangaroo Point and try your hand at abseiling.

https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/traffic-and-transport/public-transport/citycat-and-ferry-services/citycat-and-ferry-terminal-locations

What to avoid

Brisbane, like any Australia city, is a relatively safe city with modern public transport and public services (including police support services).

If you intend to hire a car and drive around, note that Australia is a right-hand drive country. It may not be recommended if you are not familiar with right-hand drive cars and right-hand drive traffic rules. Australia is very strict on drunk driving, and violations attract a hefty fine.

In using public transport, be sure you have the correct single-trip tickets or better yet, get a tap on/off GoCard (go card | translink.com.au). GoCard is a smartcard that can be used on ALL public transports (buses, trains, ferries) that can be topped-up online or at any news agency (newspaper and magazine store). There is a heavy fine for riding public transport without a correct ticket.

Traveling on a budget

Depending on preference, accommodations can range from the five-star hotels in the city to backpacker hostels and AirBNBs.

The Brisbane City Council provides free Wi-Fi services within the CBD, or you can spend time at the Brisbane City Library (also in the CBD) where you can use computers with internet access for free, aside from free Wi-Fi. This helps reduce your data roaming bill.

Brisbane is home to several colleges and universities, the most popular of which are the University of Queensland and the Queensland University of Technology. The large number of international students have fueled a thriving variety of reasonably-priced restaurants for the budget-conscious. On a weekday, go to Post Office Square, and you will find that fast-food restaurants offer a variety of hot meals at budget prices popular among both students and office workers. Lunch meals are as affordable as $7 per set.

How to get around

The best way to explore Brisbane City CBD and the adjacent Southbank is on foot.
The Brisbane City Council offers free guided walking tours.
https://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/the-city/things-to-do/tours-and-transport/free-guided-walks-brisbane?sc_lang=en-au

Best foods and places to eat

If you like steaks, check out Brisbane’s “Worst Vegetarian Restaurant” at The Norman Hotel https://normanhotel.com.au/.

Other personal favorite restaurants within the Brisbane CBD are as follows: Japanese ramen – Men Ya Go; Mediterranean/Greek – Jimmy’s on the Mall; British & Aussie fare: – Pig and Whistle; Korean – Maru, Madtongsan; Vietnamese – Fat Noodle by Celebrity Chef Luke Nguyen (located at the Treasury Casino on George Street)

Hidden Gems

There are heaps of public art around the CBD which you can discover on your own or by joining a walking tour dedicated to these public art installations.
https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/facilities-recreation/arts-culture/public-art/public-art-trails

Best time to visit

A popular time for tourists is during the cool winter and spring months (from June to November) and possibly up to the start of the summer season (in December). Brisbane can be very humid during the peak of the summer season but still draws a good number of tourists – both from other Aussie states or from overseas.

Spring and early summer are probably the best of the Queensland weather which earned it the moniker “Beautiful one Day, Glorious the Next!” as people begin to trek to the outdoors and the beach.

If you are visiting in September, be sure to catch the annual Sunsuper Riverfire which will be held on the 28th September 2019.

Riverfire is a well-attended festival where the Brisbane skyline is lit-up with fireworks for 20-30 minutes. There is also the pre-firework aerobatics show by the Australian Defense Force showcasing their superhornet fighter jets and attack helicopters.

Kabayan comforts

Craving Filipino food and delicacies? Head out to Best Friends Kainan sa Valley at Fortitude Valley (just one train station away from the Brisbane City Central Station plus a 3-minute walk) and sample traditional Filipino fare at their turo-turo or carinderia style food stall. They also have a Filipino grocery store where you can find almost anything Pinoy – from danggit to Pampanga’s Best tocino to Magnolia ice cream.

Another favorite Filipino restaurant is Yes Please! Filipino Restaurant near The Gabba stadium at Woolloongabba (less than a 10 minute uber or taxi ride from the CBD). They serve all-time Filipino favorite dishes like crispy pata, sisig, all the silogs, dinuguan, sinigang, and many more. They are always stocked with ice-cold San Miguel Pale Pilsen. Be sure to try their halo-halo and leche flan.

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January 2, 2020
Ann Ong Introduces Award Winning Collection at International Jewellery Show

Ann Ong continues to make her mark on the global stage as she presents her newest collection of handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces, titled Surround Yourself with Nature, at VOD Dubai International Jewellery Show (VOD DIJS) 2019, making her the first Filipino to showcase at the prestigious event. VOD DIJS 2019, MENA’s only B2B and B2C jewellery industry event that happened from November 13 to 16 is an unmissable 4-day event that gathers leading local, regional and international jewellery brands under one roof at Dubai World Trade Centre and is recognized as the definitive place to connect with key decision-makers and trend-setters from the global jewellery industry.

At the show, Ann Ong attracted a lot of attention with key profiles like Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Director General of the Government of Dubai Media Office, stopping by her booth during the opening; and Honorable Paul Raymund Cortes, Consul General of the Philippines in the UAE, along with Dr. Yasmin Balajadia Cortes, his wife, attending her fashion show.

Ann Ong, an esteemed style purveyor who picked up the “Best Designer” award in February 2016 Winter show at New York Now for her Sustainability Clutch – continues to capture the imagination of stylephiles and delights the fashion elite with her keen eye for the details and proud Filipina roots by using humble materials such as the homely banig, bamboo, and even salvaged wood, elevating these into impressive obra maestras.

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November 24, 2019
Travel Tips from Locals in Your Fave Cities: Reykjavík, Iceland

Travel Tips from Locals in Your Fave Cities

Reykjavík, Iceland

Iceland, the land of fire and ice has maintained a long-standing reputation for being one of the most geographically stunning countries in the world! Boasting the most dramatic landscapes, the country is covered with volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, geysers, massive glaciers and more. It is home to many legendary sights and is one of the hottest (and coldest) travel destinations for adventurers and thrill seekers alike. From the weather to the landscapes, Iceland is a stark contrast from the rest of the world alone, and getting around requires its fair share of knowledge and tips. Meet Marvi Gil Ablaza, who has been living in the country for quite some time. Here are some tips and insights she’s gathered over the years:

Before you go

Get ready for a cold world! While Iceland may have its seasons, the strange quirks of the country’s weather make it hard to recognize. The rule of thumb is: layers.

Temperatures are similar to Filipino offices in the summer: dry and very cold. Temperatures can swing from 8 to 23 degrees Celsius but can go down to 5 on rainy and windy days. Bring a light down jacket, 1-2 pairs of thick second layer leggings, socks and a warm hoodie,

Winter comes as early as October, but sometimes as late as after Christmas. Wind is more of a concern over snow, so bring thick jackets, wool socks, hiking shoes and crampons for icy sidewalks.

Weather is wet and windy during Spring and Autumn (April-May / September-October). Do NOT bring umbrellas unless you want to get blown away. Bring a raincoat and a light jacket for the occasional cold day.

Must do’s and must see’s

The quintessential Icelandic tour will take you to Gullfoss (Golden Waterfalls), Geysir and the Thingvellier National Park (the site of the first parliament and rift between the North European continent). The Golden Circle bus tour is also cheaper if you travel in a group (check out www.re.is for choices).

West Coast, South Coast and Snæfellsness Peninsula are three of the most beautiful self-drive destinations in the summer.

What to avoid

Avoid long distance and self-driving tours in the winter, as strong winds can often be the cause of accidents (yes, cars can get blown away from the road).

Traveling on a budget

Everything is expensive in Iceland. Make sure to pack your essentials and then some. We have known of Pinoy travelers who bring their instant coffee and noodles. There was even a Pinoy tourist from Germany who brought his own rice cooker (no need to be that extreme)!

Alcohol is also very expensive in this country. Do consider shopping from the duty free as you enter the country. Also, DO NOT buy water, as Iceland’s water supply is clean, plentiful and free. There are water fountains all across the country, so bring a refillable water bottle.

How to get around

Iceland is a nature lover’s paradise, and much of the best attractions are outside the capital city. For maximum fun, we suggest doing a mix between guided and self-driving tours. Plan your trip in advance, as vehicle rent can be cheap, but gas is expensive. Bus tours are also a fun, cost effective alternative.

Best foods and places to eat

For those looking to buy food, the best place would be the budget grocery chain called Bonus. They are all over the country and can be recognized by their pink piggy mascot. Else, Iceland has an amazing food scene! There are plenty of places across the capital city alone to food trip. There are also excellent Asian restos in Laugavegur, the capital’s main shopping strip.

Definitely spend at least two days in Reykjavik in order to get the most out of the capital city! Go for a walk and explore the nightlife and buzzing food scene. Valdis Ice Cream shop has become a hit for its weird and wonderful flavors (like pepper or beer). Ice cream helps a lot on cold days too as it equalizes body temperatures. Do try out Icelandic hotdogs too, made with lamb. They are extremely delicious!

Kabayan Comforts

There are no real Filipino restaurants in Reykjavik, but there are Filipinos who sell Filipino food online. Check out Pinoy Taste Reykjavik and Pinoy Kakanin Kopavogur on Facebook. Rice is life for many of us Filipinos, and you can always ask for them in many restaurants. If you are searching for a Filipino restaurant, check out Matstofan, the oldest Filipino restaurant in the country (situated in Borgarnes).

Travel Tips from Locals in Your Fave Cities: Reykjavík, Iceland

On a side note, below are links to Filipino-owned businesses that you might also want to check out to find some Filipino presence:

City Car Rental, one of the bigger rental companies in Iceland, owned by power couple Evelyn and Diddi.

Sjavarbarinn/The Seafood Bar is a no frills restaurant by the harbor owned and jointly run by Analisa and her husband Magnus. You can find Lisa at the restaurant if you wish to drop in for a chat.

Mr. Don Tattoo. In the heart of the Breidholt neighborhood, this tattoo shop is run by Pinoy artist Don Ycot.

Cirila Snyrtistofa. Beauty expert and Pinay transformation artist Cirila holds court at this cozy beauty parlor and spa.

There are less than 2000 Filipinos in Iceland, so everyone knows each other (and we’re great friends too). We always welcome our kababayans here, a country that both perplexes and fascinates. See you soon!

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November 10, 2019
Filipino – Founded Startups: Kahon, Mr Geek Mobile Solutions & Snippet Media

LOGISTICS

KAHON.PH

www.kahon.ph

Established Since: 2017

Founder: Nick Padilla and Carlos Domingo

As the first tech-enabled full-service storage solution in the Philippines, Kahon.ph is elevating the concept of storage by integrating technology in the practice of decluttering. This startup, co-founded by Nick Padilla and Carlos Domingo, eliminates the logistical burden of having to bring items to a storage facility, providing customers with unlimited storage space on-demand: “Packing, pick-up, storage, and return — we’re there every step of the way to help you make space for things that really matter.” Through the combination of digital and physical realms, they have created an efficient, hassle-free self-storage experience. Currently, Kahon.ph offers storage by the box (kahon) and storage by the square-meter (kwarto) on a subscription basis.

Since the company’s inception, Kahon.ph has had over 2000 square meters stored and has managed over 6000 of its customer’s items. Starting with the Greater Manila area with hopes of expanding throughout South-East Asia, the future bodes well for founders Nick and Carlos: “We’ve had a 6-fold increase in revenue for the first quarter of 2019 compared to that of the same period last year and with an overall annual growth of 122%. We still believe word-of-mouth is the most effective way for other people to get to know us and we’re glad that our customers see us as a service worth recommending.”

Nick attributes his know-how on real estate and flair for creativity to his experience at Zalora, Rockwell, and the Powerplant mall – having worked in the digital innovation arm of these companies – and to attending trade shows growing up. For Carlos, after his stint at Ace Saatchi and Saatchi and Publicis Jimenezbasic, he left the advertising industry to manage the family business, which is one of the first third-party local logistics companies, VGL Industries Inc. Before starting Kahon.ph, he took on the significant role of Director at the family business, then later he worked as the CEO/General Manager at Excelcare Logistics Inc. Together, they aim to change the traditional storage industry by leading the shift away from the closet or bodega, and by making Kahon.ph the preferred storage solution across the Philippines.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

GEEK MOBILE SOLUTIONS

www.mrgeekmsi.com

Established Since: May 2016

Founder: Rowi Bautista

Since being founded in 2016, Mr. Geek Mobile Solutions has been catering to Micro, Small, and Medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) delivering specialized tech services ranging from customized mobile apps to software development. Alongside this, they also offer free mobile apps through another platform – MyStart-Apps (MSA). With hopes that their services provide their clients with an equal shot at success, founder Rowi Bautista remarks: “We intend to level the playing field for micro, small and medium Enterprises by providing technological innovations to achieve market dominance that leads to high profitability.”

Mr. Geek Mobile Solutions has closed several significant projects with top companies like BDO and Toyota over its three years of operation. As well as this, the startup represented the Philippines at the 2017 Asian Entrepreneurship Award competition in Japan and won a pitching competition at a business convention held at the University of the Philippines in 2018.

As the founder and CEO of this company, Rowi is a serial entrepreneur among other things. He is the founder of Mr. Click (a digital marketing agency in the Philippines serving the needs of MSMEs), Mr. Pluffy (a leading cotton candy company with over 70 outlets nationwide), and is also a co-founder at myBOSS (a Fintech company that offers back-office support services). Rowi has even built and sold his first tech startup in 2015, which specialized in microchips. Besides currently pursuing his Master’s in Entrepreneurship at the Ateneo Graduate School of Business, he plans to cultivate Mr. Geek Mobile solutions as a company further: “Our Vision is to be the number one mobile solutions provider for micro, small and medium enterprises in the Philippines in the next five years.”

MEDIA

SnippetMedia

www.snippetmedia.com

Established Since: 2016

CEO: Christopher Star

Imagine consuming quality online content while being rewarded for it at the same time. As a leading news and entertainment app based in the Philippines, SnippetMedia provides brands with a unique opportunity to share content with an audience of over 1.5 million. When individuals read, watch, or share the content, they accrue points which can then be exchanged for real items.

SnippetMedia’s CEO Christopher Star who builds and launches startups in Southeast Asia is armed with an extensive background in marketing for web/mobile startups, and a proven track record in user acquisition, business development, community management, content creation, and audience retention. He has worked for various industries in the sector for over fourteen years including prominent brands such as Lazada, GuavaPass, DateTix, HappyFresh, Paktor, and Duriana.

“We bring together a group of skilled, driven, enthusiastic, and professional individuals who come together every morning to bring you the stories that matter,” Christopher shares. Having had over 2.5 million active users in the Philippines over the last eight months, he aims to bring about innovation when it comes to content as well as the media industry through integrating both in a seamless platform: “I want every bit of content to be rewarding for every user. We aim to reinvent content consumption and revolutionize online advertising.”

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October 29, 2019
Filipino – Founded Startups: Style Genie PH & GVER

STYLEGENIE

www.stylegenie.ph

Established Since: 2016

Founders: Abbie Victorino, Minrie Macapugay and Rione Palacios

Due to its unrivaled practicality, online shopping is quickly surpassing the need for its traditional counterpart. When it comes to buying fashion, e-commerce is one thing. However, platforms that provide you with specialized styling from the comfort of your own home is a whole other ballgame.

With FashionTech company StyleGenie, customers are sent an expertly curated collection of clothes that caters to their style preferences. From this, people can try before they buy. The StyleGenie team expresses: “Our mission is to grant style wishes and boost our customer’s confidence through smart and sustainable fashion choices.” How it all works: after signing up on their website and creating a Style Profile, you get to choose a Style Box that has been curated just for you. StyleGenie then delivers the clothes to your doorstep – from the collection, you get to keep and buy what you like, and they’ll pick up the rest.

StyleGenie was co-founded by CEO Abbie Victorino, Minrie Macapugay (Chief Tech Officer), and Rione Palacios (Chief Curation Officer). Branding expert Rione is a skilled retail executive with strengths in brand management, marketing communications, and fashion styling, while all-round tech expert Minrie is an IT consultant, front end JavaScript developer, and product development head. Together with Abbie, an experienced leader with a proven track record in international fashion buying and e-commerce solutions, the StyleGenie team endeavors to innovate the online shopping experience: “Through Style Genie and its services, we do not only sell clothes, but instead offer styling solutions so people can discover their true personal style, become conscious shoppers, and actively support the sustainable fashion movement. On the other hand, our platform offers our partner brands, especially the local ones, a way to sell their products with the use of data-driven technologies and personalized style-matching.”

Established in 2016, StyleGenie now has an active client-base of over 30,000 users and 2500 paying customers. Initially starting in the Philippines, the business seeks to expand to Singapore, Jakarta, and Kuala Lumpur later this year. As a company, they have even bagged a couple of awards along the way – StyleGenie received the title of best e-commerce startup from the Philippines at the 2018 ASEAN RiceBowl Startup Awards and was chosen as one of the top 32 Asian startups at the 2019 Jumpstarter startup competition in Hong Kong.

Seizing every opportunity for growth, this business has been a part of many startup programs. StyleGenie was incubated by the Ideaspace Foundation in 2017, and then the Asian Institute of Management in 2018. It was also accelerated by the 2018 UNCTAD (United Nations Conference of Trade and Development) x Alibaba E-Founder Fellowship Program, as well as the 2019 Simona Accelerator for APAC Women Founders (a collaboration between Digitaraya – a startup accelerator in Jakarta – and Google for startups in Indonesia). Through all these endeavors, Abbie has huge aspirations for StyleGenie: “My vision is to become the first female-founded style tech unicorn from the Philippines.”

GVER

www.gver.net

Established Since: 2017

Founders: Lalaine & Mon Benitez

As climate change and the world’s waste problems come to the fore, businesses that provide sustainable solutions lessening people’s environmental impact become more and more important. Enter Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing. Founded in 2017 Gver presents a novel mode of consumption built on top of sharing. With the brand pitch – “get stuff for free, just pay for delivery and give away what you don’t need,” the startup differentiates itself from other marketplaces in that the business model is give and take, not buy, sell or trade.

Founder Lalaine Chu-Benitez shares, “Billions worth of useful goods end up in landfills around the world, while billions more are lying in our closets at home. But while so many of us have too much stuff, more and more are finding it harder to afford things. By facilitating sharing and removing the pains of the secondhand markets – no selling/negotiating, no meetups and no having to arrange for transport, we give people amazingly cheap, easy and safe access to goods.”

The platform has currently over 4,000 members and has facilitated the give-away of thousands of items ranging from clothes to books, household items, even entire furniture sets. 2018 marks a new milestone as the brand started collaborating on CSR initiatives with companies to give away old furniture, equipment, and materials. Recent corporate partnership projects include the redistribution of over 150 pcs of second-hand hotel furniture worth an estimated AED25,000 from Jebel Ali Resorts and Hotels to the community, and the release of thousands of ceramicware to benefit restaurants across the city. Such exercises prove that sharing is a win-win situation for both the companies where storage and disposal of old materials are both time-consuming and costly and for the receiving parties that are able to acquire useful goods conveniently delivered to their doorstep at the most minimal costs.

Lalaine adds, “In the future, we see Gver side by side the world’s largest marketplaces, not only because it is a great idea whose time has come, but because the world needs this. We as humans need this type of business to succeed.”

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October 17, 2019
Travel Tips from Locals in Your Fave Cities: Los Angeles

“Los Angeles is so stubbornly its own thing… To love LA, you just kind of have to let it be LA.” – Damien Chazellew

Visiting LA is like seeing the rest of the world without taking a plane – it truly is a microcosm of our planet in terms of food, culture, and people. Home to a vibrant food-truck culture, breathtaking beaches, contemporary architecture, epic theme parks, and of course, the center of world entertainment – Hollywood, travelers will always have something fun to do in LA.

Los Angeleno Girlie Ellsworth shares her top travel tips for when it comes to visiting the So-Cal destination. “Living in LA, you get to talk and mingle with people from different walks of life. One can experience the sheer diversity of culture here just through trying out ethnic cuisines. You might even find yourself gyrating to the sound of the tambourine in a Middle Eastern restaurant while enjoying lamb and couscous – that’s LA for you!”

Must do’s and must see’s

There is a little of everything for everyone. For the moviegoer in you, LA offers Universal Studios and other Theme Parks. Be lost amidst props and settings of your favorite movies and sitcoms.

If you feel like having an easy day, take the six-hour LA tour. Glamorous neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, eateries, shops, skyscraper, and famous homes of the stars are among the many attractions seen on these tours. If this isn’t for you, hop on board a double-decker bus tour at your own pace, thanks to the convenient schedule from 24-48-72-hour ticket options and departures.

Walk for two hours and get the feel of the city. This is great for cardio and allows visitors to explore historic Downtown Los Angeles. Visit architectural sites from the Golden Era of Hollywood. Immerse yourself in the colorful graffiti, indulge in a snack from a food truck vendor, and chat with the friendly locals. If you’re the athletic type and love to get a good workout, there is the hike/walk path in Griffith Park. You can also discover the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and Greek Theatre, among other things. You will also hear beautiful music coming from the Hollywood Bowl. This is truly an enriching cultural experience.

Best foods and places to eat

For your palate, there are numerous authentic ethnic restaurants featuring just about as many countries in the globe. Some well-visited places are Porto’s Bakery, a family-run Cuban Bakery, which is a favorite amongst us Pinoys. This spot makes for a nice quick stop for lunch. Try their sandwiches and potato balls and end the meal with your choice of sweets like the guava roll. Moreover, there is the Grand Central Market that offers a variety of authentic food from tacos, falafel, curries; basically, anything your taste buds desire.

Kabayan Comforts

In case you miss Filipino food, they have the Sari-Sari Store – a Filipino concept restaurant. They feature rice bowls for breakfast and lunch. There is also the historic Filipino Town, a great neighborhood dining adventure. To simply describe what LA has to offer to an outsider is too hard of a task, as there is simply too much to mention. The best way for travelers to find out what LA is like is by being where the action is. Come and discover the adventure that awaits in our City of Angels, Los Angeles, California.

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September 15, 2019
Travel Tips from Locals in Your Fave Cities: Singapore

Since the release of the landmark film ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ in late 2018, there has been renewed interest in the Lion City – Singapore as an exciting travel destination, not only for its sights and sounds but also its unique vibe. The city represents quintessential cosmopolitan Asia where cultural richness and charm from its amalgamated community of Chinese, Malays, Indians, and Eurasians meld effortlessly with the sleek high-tech cityscape and modern comforts afforded by one of the most affluent countries in the world.

Grace, a senior lecturer-mentor at the Institute of Technical Education School of Nursing, and Larry Angel, a teacher at the Raffles Girls’ Secondary School, together with their three children migrated to Singapore 14 years ago. Here they tell us about the best of the best in their city and how to make the most of a holiday there, whether you are just passing by for a short trip, or staying to relax.

Before you go

Singapore is a very humid country. We only have two seasons – rainy and dry. Light clothing is a must during the summer season. Walking shoes are also necessary in Singapore, as we usually walk longer distances.

Must do’s and must see’s

When in Singapore, visit museums like the Bicentennial Experience at Fort Canning. The museum was built to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the arrival of Sir Stamford Raffles to Singapore in 1819.

Part of the essential Singapore holiday trip is a visit to Resorts World Sentosa, to see the many park attractions which could take you days to cover; the Marina Bay Sands with its world-famous Skypark; Jewel Mall which houses the tallest indoor waterfall; Gardens By the Bay a fantastic nature park; and the Singapore Flyer.

What to avoid

Singapore is a safe place. This is the reason why my family migrated, especially for my visually impaired son, who thankfully, can travel around Singapore alone. Public transport is very accessible, and all places are disabled-friendly. My only advice for travelers is to make sure you stay hydrated.

Traveling on a budget

To save on money when you travel to Singapore, I highly recommend eating at hawker centers instead of restaurants and mall food courts. There are so many of these centers around the city offering an amazing variety of fresh-cooked food at great prices! Instead of using taxis, take the bus or the MRT. The MRT, in fact, is the best way to go around the city.

To buy souvenirs, go to Chinatown, Bugis Street and 24 Hours Mustafa Shopping Centre. You’ll be spoilt for choice. Even better, if you are coming specifically for shopping, visit during the Great Singapore Sale (GSS) from May to June.

Best foods and places to eat

If you’re here only for a short visit, make sure you visit these areas to have a fill of local favorites – Makansutra, Lau Pa Sat (satay street sauce), Maxwell Road and Chinatown. All of these spots are near the usual tourist spots like Esplanade and Chinatown.

If you have the time, you can also try theses highly regarded food centers. Do expect long queues but it’s definitely worth the trouble. Meals cost between SGD$3.00 to $5.00 – Old Airport Road Hawker Centre for prawn mee, lor mee (lomi), rojak, char kway teow (stir-fry fried flat noodles); Tiong Bahru Market for chee kuay (rice cake) and curry rice; Katong Shopping Centre for chicken rice (delicious Hainanese boneless chicken), katong laksa and laksa.

Hidden gems

These places and activities are not as popular as the usual touristic haunts, but they are highly recommended – hiking at the McRitchie Reservoir and Southern Ridges; fishing and prawning at Orto (near Khatib MRT); a visit to the Singapore Botanic Gardens; watching free concerts and other performances at the Esplanade.

Best time to visit

Singapore is great for holidays all your round. But you might also want to time your trip to coincide with some of the most festive periods in the city. These include Chinese New Year period – January to February, National Day – August, Formula 1 Night Race – September and Deepavali Festival of Lights – November. Stay for at least 5-7 days, so you really get to visit all the key places and get a good feel of the city.

Kabayan comforts

If you’re feeling homesick or in need of Filipino comforts, go to Lucky Plaza on Orchard Road which is the definitive Pinoy hideout in Singapore. Eat at Jollibee various branches around the city or Iskina Lechon (Ayer Raja).

Every Sunday morning, head out to your nearest basketball courts to see our ‘kabayan Lebron James wannabees.’ Around the city, there are also Filipinos performing in bands, and choirs like the Filipino Voice Symphony (FVS) where I am a member. Every December, the Filipino community attends Simbang Gabi at 8PM in various churches around the city.

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September 10, 2019
10 Airbnb You Should Book for Your Next Trip!

By Alwee Villarosa

Barcelona, Spain

In a charming neighborhood with wonderful restaurants and shops, and sights within walking distance, as well as the city center, Plaza Catalunya for about 5 minutes. I love the atmosphere in my neighborhood, you will find local and specialty stores (organic food, vintage clothes, vinyl records, wineries, vintage decor), a mix of cultures, the architectural style of the old city, good restaurants, terraces in summer, cultural centers. We also have one of the buildings considered artistic heritage: the Palau de la Música, just 3 minutes walk. Also, another landmark of the city is the Arc de Triomf. Reference point to get home. Or the Parc de la Ciutadella, a beautiful park IXX century, a great place to go for a walk, jogging, yoga, dance or swing tip-tap on the center stand or just breathe fresh air.

Wootha, Australia

The Bower is one of three cabins in a close-knit hamlet nestled in the Wootha rainforest, only 10 minutes drive from the township of Maleny and 20 minutes to Woodfordia. Relax in front of the warm wood-burning fireplace, enjoy the abundant birdlife from your private deck, soak in the antique claw-foot bath, and lose yourself in the celestial clerestory views.

Budapest, Hungary

Admire the effortless blend of vintage and modern convenience and style of this sunny loft in central Budapest. With highlights like bold, contemporary artwork, monochrome accents, and a spacious walk-in shower, this home embodies bohemian chic. The flat is located just a short walk from Oktogon, one of the most popular areas of the city. Király Street is about five minutes away from where guests will find ruin pubs, cocktail bars, and wine tasting. There’s also plenty of dining options!

Modica, Italy

Have breakfast alfresco within the pinkish walls of a terrace and enjoy the breathtaking views of the magnificent baroque cathedral of San Giorgio and ancient Modica. The typical local-style house has recently been completely renovated and furnished with style, the kitchen and bathrooms have received designer upgrades; some of the original details are still present in the soft color of the local stone, the beamed ceilings and doors, the old painted ceramic tiles and some antique pieces of furniture. Modica is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002.

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Sip a refreshing glass of the natural spring water, then take a dip in the secluded natural pool at this nature-inspired, architectural masterpiece in the forest’s heart. Pick bananas, look for monkeys, and watch blue butterflies fluttering by too. The Arca house is located inside our ecological sanctuary called Aldeia Rizoma in the middle of the Atlantic Forest, at the border of Bocaina National Park, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. One hundred meters from the entrance gate of the property, there’s a local restaurant called Barão—a simple place, but very authentic, with delicious food. The local community of neighbors in that region live in harmony with nature and are our dear friends.

Mexico City, Mexico

This home, built in the 1920s, was recently restored to accentuate its original charm. Experience history and modernity in the private suite featuring repointed original brick, rustic finishes, an interior courtyard, and a shared rooftop patio. The property is located in La Roma, known as the artistic area of the city. There is always something happening, such as shows or exhibits. There are also a number of hotspots to indulge in international cuisine.

Bali, Indonesia

Marvel at this meticulously designed, eco-friendly villa overlooking idyllic rice fields. Some luxuries include a private swimming pool, smart TV, soundbar, and cooking and massage services. Relax in total privacy still close to the best beaches. Set within a secure and secluded development, it only takes a few minutes to reach a number of beaches such as Echo Beach, Batu Bolong, and Berawa. Canggu Club and more are all within a short stroll away. Popular upscale resort Seminyak is nearby, too.

Vienna, Australia

Feel immediately drawn to the wrap-around, floor-to-ceiling windows with an accompanying balcony. Enjoy the large, welcoming sitting area, while gazing out at the gardens. Wander around, discovering the stunning furniture and modern decor accents. Hohe Warte is a densely populated hill in Vienna′s 19th district, Döbling. This exclusive area was home to many Presidents. Wander just two minutes to the 37 tram line which goes straight downtown. There, discover many restaurants, bars, and shops.

Arecibo, Puerto Rico

Walk through a jungle-like secret path to a quiet beach from this tropical cabin. Surrounded by tropical palm trees, this space provides the feel of camping out and features modern comforts. Sit outside at night to take in the view of the night sky. Just steps away from a beach ideal for surfing, fishing, and hiking. Located just minutes away from “La Cueva del Indio”—Indian Cave—and Arecibo Lighthouse, and a short drive from Cueva Ventana, Las Cavernas del Río Camuy, and the Tanama River.

Los Angeles, California, United States

After a day of sand and sun, curl up by the fireplace in this delightful bungalow that captures the spirit of the neo-bohemian living. With vaulted ceilings, cheerful decor, and vintage touches, it feels open, bright, and welcoming. Rugged, beautiful landscape with picturesque mountain views and wide open cloudless blue skies. The morning crisp light to the sunset glow. The perfect spot for any photo shoot.

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August 27, 2019
Filipino – Founded Startups: Agriculture Technology

AGRABAH MARKETPLACE

www.agrabah.ph

Established Since: 2018

Founders: JoJo Gumino-Ocol & Jun Ocol

The reality is this: while the Philippines relies quite heavily on its agricultural sector, the ones fueling the industry suffer immense financial disadvantages – Philippine farmers and fisherfolk constitute 68% of the people living under the poverty line due to low earnings and increasing market costs. On a mission to solve such an issue is the Agrabah marketplace. This social enterprise startup empowers our farmers and fisherfolk by helping them find potential partners and foster reliable connections that facilitate transactions at a fair value.

Armed with over twenty years of experience from complementary backgrounds Jojo-Gumino Ocol and Jun Ocol co-founded Agrabah Marketplace. Jojo has over ten years of experience in human resources, business development, and corporate partnerships, while Jun also has a decade’s worth of experience in the agricultural value chain as a distributor. With such insider insight, they don’t only plan to help farmers and fisherfolk sustain a fruitful living; they too envision a future where they can yield predictive analytics that allows suppliers to know what to grow and when to grow based on market needs. Jojo and Jun share: “We’re energized by the innovation we’re leading, and every individual has an impact on that success. We love that we can make a difference to the community, to our team, to our customers, and to an entire industry. Agrabah is on a mission to make agriculture great again.”

Expediting product transactions since March, Agrabah Marketplace has helped supply over 78 metric tons of agricultural produce to their institutional clients via their B2B marketplace. In the process, they’ve benefitted the lives of over a thousand coastal farmers across the Bicol region. With the future bright, they plan to expand nationwide as well as launch their B2C marketplace in the upcoming months so consumers can enjoy fresh produce sourced directly from local farmers.

For Jun and Jojo, there is no time better than the present to invest in Filipino startups – they attest: “The Philippine startup ecosystem is slowly, but steadily growing. New businesses need more support both public and private not only in terms of funding, but also mentorship, training, and resources.”

FARMWATCH SOLUTIONS

www.farmwatch.ph

Established Since: 2016

Founders: Jayn Sy, Rupert Calvin Sievert, and Athena Lavega

As a company in the agritech and cleantech industries, Farmwatch Solutions conducts remote environmental and energy monitoring for agricultural and industrial buildings. Founded by Jayn Sy, Rupert Calvin Sievert, and Athena Lavega, the business examines the different environmental parameters affecting livestock farms and provides data coupled with an expert-based recommendation system to help their clients effectively manage their buildings. They also do energy monitoring and management for biogas generators and green buildings. “Farmwatch’s goal is to ensure that animals and humans alike get access to better living conditions through efficient and expert environmental monitoring,” the founders share.

CEO Engr. Athena Lavega has a master’s degree in electrical engineering and is a professor at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, while CTO Engr. Rupert Calvin Sievert is an electronics and communications engineer as well as a professional full-stack software and hardware developer. Handling operations and finance is Jane Sy, who has a degree in pharmacy, and a master’s in both marketing management and science in entrepreneurship. Together with their diverse skill sets, they seek to champion sustainability by reducing ecological impact utilizing technology. When it comes to their ultimate aspiration as founders, Jane expresses: “Speaking on behalf of the Farmwatch team, our ultimate aspiration is to really marry technology with environmental science. We want to be able to provide solutions that would greatly benefit the world and help ease the staggering damages in our environment. It might sound too idealistic or ‘millennial-like,’ but we fully embrace such notions because we think that intellect and skills should be used beyond the corporate and capitalistic sense and should be used to support sustainable goals.”

Growing in their operations, Farmtech Solutions received a government grant from the Department of Science and Technology to further develop their product and gather more data through pilot deployments. “We have deployed mostly in poultry farms in Mindanao and do biogas energy monitoring in Luzon. We have partnered with several IoT (Internet of Things) private companies to increase the value of our services and scale our operations.”

“I can honestly say that we are eons away from the rest of the world,” attests Jane regarding the Philippine startup scene. “The thing with “catching up” is that while we try to do so, the advanced countries are also moving forward, so I don’t think we can truly catch up in that sense. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not the lack of skills or great minds, it’s the traditional and unfriendly ecosystem we live in that hinders most of the startups. We first need to disrupt the ecosystem, be more open to discussions, veer away from power-tripping government agencies, and just honestly support startups without the red tape.”

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August 26, 2019