Mega Magazine - Solenn October 2020

OCT 2020
P250
An unedited
and unfiltered
gives us a raw rundown

of life in quarantine
Highlighter
shades and brave
silhouettes signal a
fashion restart
The Sk in
I
FO CUS O N T H E IND ISPENSA B L E
MEGA’s Best of Beauty gets real with
indulgent skincare and soft focus makeup
+ Brands and bosses on
m e g a .o n e m e g a .c o m
the state of the industry

TA B L E O F C O N T EN T S
ST YLE
14 B E S T B U Y S 28 M EG AWO M A N
We don’t just love local—we Charmaine Lagman
adore it. This month we’re is the quintessential
gaga for everything—from a MEGA Woman:
crazy rich asian favorite to a driven, passionate,
crazy cool heritage brand and fiercely fashionable
18 G E T R E A D Y 34 N K OTB
TO W E A R Discover the beauty
Find out why blue is the of Darlenne Rivera’s
coolest color of the season unique aesthetic
24 R ET A I L 38 DESIG N ER
TR END PROFI LE
R E P O RT Glamour god Noel
Like a phoenix, Eliz Crisostomo brings his
Marcelo rises with a signature red carpet flair to
hot new collection personal protective gear
F E AT U R E S
46 FOOD 50 FE ATU R E
Perhaps one of the worst-hit STOR Y
industries of the coronavirus How essential is art
is the local dining one, where during a pandemic? A
even global behemoths are writer and several on-
shuttering up stores. Are the-rise illustrators
we looking at a future of share their thoughts
dining in—at home? from home
TA B L E O F C O N T EN TS
BE AUT Y
58 RU LEBO OK 68 M A I N
Graphic liner in fluoro BE AU T Y
shades are all the rage Color is the name of the
game and our playbook is
64 TH ESIS full of soft sunset washes
Do you like what you and juicy liner; it’s time to
see? One editor shares amplify the eye
her journey with
body dysmorphia 86 BE A U T Y
AWA R DS
76 F A S T From new icons to instant
FORW A R D fiixes, hair care essentials
Beauty’s bigwigs—from to the best of the decade,
icons to CEOs—weigh in MEGA has rounded
on the state and future of up the top beauty
the industry products of the year
FAS H I O N
106 BE A U T Y I N 124 M A I N
LOCK DOW N FA SHION 2
MEGA pays Solenn Heussafff a Style is indeed
visit at home in a series of raw and forever, even
unedited photos in isolation
1 18 M A I N F A S H I O N 1 13 3 S T R E E T
Indulge in a little bit of Brighten the
luxury with Bvlagari’s mood with an
latest collection electric palette
@peeweeisidro
PEEWEE REYES-ISIDRO
Editor-In-Chief
Creative Director SUKI SALVADOR @sukisalvador

Associate Creative Director JANN PASCUA
Managing Editor TRINA EPILEPSIA BOUTAIN
FASHION @jannpascua
Fashion Editor JEB FRONDA
Fashion Associate LYN ALUMNO
Pullout Assistant MARY JOY ALMERO
B E AU T Y & F E AT U R E S @trinateb
Beauty and Features Writer MIA CASTRO
MEGA MAN
Editor-In-Chief SUKI SALVADOR @angelordecartagena
Associate Editor ANGELO RAMIREZ DE CARTAGENA
Writer KRISTOFF SISON
ART
Senior Graphic Artist NICOLE ALMERO @feroxia
Final Artists ERIC GALLEGO, MARK VILLANUEVA
CONTRIBUTORS
Photographers JERICK SANCHEZ, JL JAVIER, RXANDY CAPINPIN,
AUGUSTIN PAREDES, FLOYD JHOCSON @lynalumno
Writers ALYSSA LAPID, MICH SANCIANCO,
DANIELA ESPELIMBERGO
Illustrator JULIA TABOR, JENRY HARRIZ VIVAR, MIMI CAMILLE,
FELIZE CAMILLE TOLENTINO, LEA VALENZUELA
@miacastrooo
MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM
Editor-In-Chief PEEWEE REYES-ISIDRO
Digital Content Editor ANGELO RAMIREZ DE CARTAGENA
Digital Features Editor ELYSE ILAGAN @nicoolealmero
Multimedia Artist CAMILLE MANALIGOD
Fashion Digital Content Writer DANIEL REYES
Beauty & Features Digital Content Writer MIKA REYES
Video Editor HARDY SAN PEDRO
@janinerecto
Publisher ARCHIE CARRASCO

Associate Publisher JANINE RECTO
Founding Editor @archiecarrasco

SARI V. YAP (†)
C O N T E N T & C R E AT I V E S ADVERTISING
Vice President — Content & Creatives SUKI SALVADOR Sales Director CARMELLI DAET
Digital Sales Manager MAUREEN ALEXIS BUSTO
C R E AT I V E S E R V I C E S Account Managers PAULINE MATA,
Copywriters STEPHANIE FERRER, KRISTOFF SISON CHLOE TAPUCAR, JASMINE CO LENG,
Multimedia Artists NICCA ESPAÑOL, IVAN PANGANIBAN
FATIMA ESMERO, SUZANNE ALLBABIDI Advertising Implementer Associate EUNIZEL CARBONELL
Producer AJ DE LAS ALAS Production Coordinator MARIA ISABEL GARCIA
Video Editor ANDREW CIUDAD
MARKETING SERVICES
C U S T O M P U B L I C AT I O N S Manager ARRIANE SANCHEZ
Business Unit Head MARGA MEDRANO-TUPAZ PR and Events Manager – BluPrint
MARJORIE DAVANTES
D I G I TA L M A R K E T I N G
Head RANICE SUGUITAN-FAUSTINO C I R C U L AT I O N
SEO Copy Editor & Digital Media Admin Coordinator Head CECILLE NGO
JOYCE MARUCOT Manager ARRIANE SANCHEZ
Social Media Administrator and Technical Marketing Associate Circulation Sales Agents RONIE SAYSON,
AHLEXIA LUNA ARNOLD TEODORO JR.
ST U D I O 10 0 HUMAN RESOURCES
Head MARGA MEDRANO-TUPAZ Human Resources Manager DIANA ALMEDA
Head Photographer ED SIMON Payroll Associate ANGIELICA BARIL
Photographers FLOYD JHOCSON,
MIGUEL ABESAMIS, KIERAN PUNAY A D M I N I S T R AT I O N & P U R C H A S I N G
Cameraman JR RAMIREZ Admin & Purchasing Manager AVY LAGARTO
Company Driver BERNARD DELA CRUZ
FINANCE
Director of Finance MA. CECILIA NGO PRODUCTION
Senior Treasury Associate MAILEEN CAPILITAN Head AVY LAGARTO
Credit & Collection Supervisor NAININE BUENAOBRA Final Artists ERIC GALLEGO,
Sr. Accounting Associates JANIN TABORA, MARK VILLANUEVA
JOHN DELA TORRE
EXECUTIVE OFFICE
I .T. & W E B D E V E L O P M E N T Associate Publisher - MEGA
Head HARVEY MEDINA JANINE RECTO
Web Developer CARLO TUMALIUAN Brand Marketing Associate – Lifestyle Asia
I.T. Specialist PAULO MIRASOL ABBY LAUREL
ONE MEGA GROUP INC.

ARCHIE CARRASCO
President & CEO
LORRAINE BELMONTE
Founding Creative Director
SARI V. YAP (†)

Founder
UNDERCOVER
Wak ing
Life
By TRINA EPILEPSIA BOUTAIN
Photography JANN PASCUA
I
n the early morning light, Solenn Heussaff
Bolzico is positively golden. She’s bustling
about her bedroom and the team is
following her, taking photos as she fixes
herself, cradles her baby. It seems like we
can’t take a bad shot of her and we know
that it’s not just the combination of good lighting
and a comely subject. She is just radiating beauty—
confident, simple and serene.
Like many of us, the celebrated artist has been
home for several months, quarantining with her
young family—husband Nico Bolzico and Thylane
Katana, their adorable eight-month-old baby. She’s
H O M E A N D AWAY been keeping busy with work, much of which we’ve
Mom may have been the cover seen on her social media channels, where she freely
star, but baby Thylane Katana shares her hilarious but tender relationship with
nearly stole the show in this
“homemade” photo shoot
Bolzico and the learnings she’s picked up from her
motherhood journey. Many times we’ve seen her in
barely any makeup, unafraid to share her reality, but
still emanating unfiltered loveliness.
“She’s gorgeous,” one editor types on our
group chat as we all watch the shoot unfold
virtually. Only Associate Creative Director Jann
Pascua, photographer Jerick Sanchez, makeup
artist Robbie Piñera, and hairstylist John Valle
are present in the shoot. This type of production
has become more common, so it helps to have an
A-Team on hand, as well as a subject as natural and
naturally gorgeous as Heussaff.
She’s the perfect personality to lead this month’s
Big Beauty Issue in a time when our concept of
beauty has altered, much like the other aspects of
our lives. Her straightforward and healthy approach
to beauty is refreshing and exactly what we want
to see in these times. Instead of the usual coterie of
products, we now rely on the tried and tested way:
sleep, good eating habits, lots of water, and regular
exercise. Well, we’ll always love our makeup and our
skincare (and our procedures and our IG filters),
but we’d be lying if we said that we didn’t find this
change of pace a breath of fresh air.
MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 9

EDITOR’S NOTE
There are two words you wouldn’t see in my

vocabulary: exercise and workout. I’ve never really been an
active person, and with my hectic pre-pandemic schedule,
I didn’t really try hard to incorporate it in my life. When
my weight ballooned because of all the stress and mindless
eating I did, I had a rude awakening. Something must be
done. I forced myself to have some form of regular exercise.
G et
At fiirst it was such a struggle; I’ve never felt my body work
so hard, but over time, I got used to it. In the beginning I
felt like I was failing, weak, and everything seemed so hard,
but it’s true what they say: practice makes perfect.
Over time, not only did I begin to become better
and more confiident with what I was doing, I also started
to enjoy the feeling. But more importantly, I was able to
accomplish and complete something. It gave me a sense of
real
fulfiillment. I may still not be in my ideal weight, but what
I gained was more important: newfound strength.
Now that months have passed and businesses
have slowly opened, I must admit, I wasted no time
getting the treatments and services I really missed.
While these helped me feel good about myself, I
noticed that rather than depending on these as the
primary source to make me feel good, they became
secondary. I’d like to think that I’ve worked on the
foundations that should matter first.
The basics. The essentials. These are what we focused
on in our annual Beauty Awards. During the course of
testing the products, the MEGA editors realized that
et’s admit it, the times have forced us while we still love our highlighters and eyeshadows, a good
to face our real selves. foundation—and we don’t mean the one you slap on with
While on lockdown and self- a Beauty Blender—is the really the key to a great beauty
isolation for several months now, we experience. That, and a killer lipstick.
have been stripped offf the pleasures Speaking of lipstick, we rounded up some of the
of things such as a trip to the salon, country’s top beauty bosses and personalities and
pampering at the spa or even a visit asked them about the pandemic and how it took down
to our favorite aesthetics center or the so-called Lipstick Index (where sales of makeup go
dermatologist. Suddenly, doing these mundane things up in times of economic recession). Their thoughtful,
seemed life-threatening or high-risk. Deprived of our sometimes painfully real answers, showed us just how
beauty “necessities,” we have been compelled to go deep this catastrophe has gone. It was sobering, but also
back to basics, and ultimately do things on our own. optimistic. If there’s anything the pandemic has shown
During this period, I felt so depressed every time us, it’s the cracks and unturned stones in our lives and
I saw strands of my hair turn to gray, and as I faced my businesses. But now that we have come face to face with
face everyday sans makeup, I began to resent the way I them, many, if not all, are hopeful of a future is, though
looked. I started to notice all the flaws, and it became drastically diffferent from what we had in mind a few
more pronounced day by day. While I longed for the months back, still largely beautiful.
usual outside tools to help me, I realized that maybe, I So, the next time you look into the mirror, take one
had focused on quick fiixes when it came to taking care of hard look. You might just like what you see.
myself. The pandemic has forced me to address issues that
I’ve long neglected. I ignored them because I was either
in denial, lazy, or was too tired to have to deal with them.
It would have been amiss not to recognize these, as I was
presented an opportunity to somehow correct them. I
really had no more excuse.
While the old me would have brushed offf the fact
that something needed to change, this time I was willing
to take the fiirst step. Makeup is something I love dearly
and is a sure pick-me-upper, but now, my attention
shifted to skincare—as it should have been in the fiirst
@peeweeisidro
place. I started to prioritize my skin and take care of it.
This time, I took the efffort to really invest in skincare
products, tried and true ones that really worked for me.
I committed to a regimen and validated its importance
rather than seeing it as a chore or an obligation. Slowly,
I began to see improvements on my skin, though they
weren’t as obvious or drastic.
10 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

R E A L B E AU T Y
While many would say
that October cover star
Solenn has everything—
beauty, wit, love, and fame,
unbeknownst to others,
she too has experienced a lot
of pain and struggles in her
life—the most recent her
pregnancy. But collective
experiences and learnings
makes her the person she is
today, and that’s what truly
makes her beautiful

TYL
Text LYN ALUMNO. Photography ANJO SUNGA
10 20
MASK OFF
he tides have changed

and we are riding a
brand new wave. Yes.
Still, we rise. From
our usual big fashion
issue rich in editorials,
out-of-the-box stories
and comprehensive
shopping guide, the new MEGA was
washed anew with sustainability,
innovation, coping with the times, and
protective gear must-haves for last month’s
issue. It was a different kind of story to tell—
living proof of how everyone must adapt and
survive. The fashion industry was purified.
This October, we go face-to-face with
real beauty, beginning with actress, artist
and now, a mother—Solenn Heusaff. No
one else is a more perfect muse than the
French-Filipina who’s a no-fuss beauty,
never shying away from being bare-faced
and unfiltered. Running errands with a
face fully made up used to be the norm.
But in the present age, none of that is
even visible—everything is kept hidden
behind the mask.
But even then, it’s a no-holds-barred
issue when it comes to real beauty. We talk
about emotions, the inner self, being at
peace and what makes us feel good—we
hope that you do, too.

BEST BUYS
The
I ndependents
Entrepreneurs and their
businesses have been one of
the pillars of the fashion industry.
From traditional statement pieces
to classic everyday wear, we
highlight the best of Filipino
independent brands
By JEB FRONDA
A D A NTE LE Y ES A
When it comes to
statement accessories, Adante
Leyesa is alway top of mind.
Coming from a career in the
structured corporate world,
Leyesa has always wanted to
break free from the monotony
by creating artistic accessories.
After being named as the
Grand Winner in an accessory
design competition back in
2011, he took this chance into
building a full-time career as a
jewelry designer. His creations
aren’t only worn by Manila’s ila s
elite fashion circles, but has
also been an international
success as women who vaalue
artistic pieces order from
TO T H E M A X
around the world. From semi-
precious stones to indigenoous Maximalism is Leyesa’s design language.
From f loral motifs to molded brass, Leyesa
materials, Leyesa never forggets expertly combiness both to create pieces that
to incorporate Filipino design are undoubtedly works of art
into his creations. Tod day,
Leyesa’s creations are onee of
the top accessory design ners
housed in Manile Fame, the
country’s premier design and a
lifestyle eveent.
AG E O F M Y T H O LO GY
Mythological creatures abound Felipp’s
collections. Symbolizing the endless possibilities
of his design journey, this Siren piece is his
homage to the island he calls home
N EI L FELI PP
Cebu-based minaudière designer, Neil
Felipp shot to international fame when
his ‘Suzy Wong Black’ minaudière was
seen on the hands of the inimitable
Astrid Leong of Crazy Rich Asians
on the big screen. Felipp’s background
in Industrial design has helped him
create one-of-a-kind pieces that are
impeccably designed and stamped with
Felipp’s signature intricate brass details.
Although his pieces have an international
appeal, Felipp never forgets to honor
Filipino creativity by sourcing all of
his materials locally. An apprentice
to internationally acclaimed designer,
Kenneth Cobonpue, one can be sure
that Felipp’s pieces come from a certain
level of taste that women around the
world can appreciate. Today, Felipp is
experimenting on jewelry design with his
shark tooth pendaants.

BEST BUYS
U N A R ICCI
Una Ricci is all about classic
yet fashionable everyday
wear. Its international appeal
combined with Filipino design
aesthetics, Una Ricci appeals
to the everyday Filipina who
wants to look effortlessly stylish.
Nina Ricci Eleazar, the brand’s
founder, started the brand back
in 2011 selling imported hand-
made jewelry from Europe. With
the evolution of women’s tastes,
the brand soon became a name
synonymous to essential wear,
especially in this new normal.
With the help of her partner,
Margaux Salazar, they re-
branded the store as The House
of Una Ricci. This expansion
puts the Una Ricci brand in the
forefront backed up with both
local and international fashion
lines proving that Filipino
design can be matched with its
international counterparts.
T H E R E V I VA L
From starting out with
bejeweled accessories to
taking a hiatus because of
motherhood, Nina Ricci
and the Una Ricci brand has
evolved into a mult-brand
store the best of chic everyday
wear perfect for every Filipina
Z A C A R I A S 192 5
Zacarias 1925 is the brainchild of Ritaa
Nazareno and was born from her
family’s legacy brand, S.C. Vizcarra,
which is one of the country’s most
trusted design brands when it comes
to Filipino crafts-manship in the field d
of furniture and fashion accessories.
Setting herself apart from classic
pieces of S.C. Vizcarra, Nazareno has
established a niche market through
her larger-than-life creations that fullyy
embraces both fashion and function.
From unconventional conch-shapes
to asymmetrical solid shapes, Zacaria s
1925 pieces are one-of-a-kind in the
world. With weaving as a foundation
of the brand, it still prides itself with
the same impeccable craftsmanship an nd
quality that can be found in its mother
brand but with a solid aesthetic that is
whimsical and innovative.
I N T E R WOV E N
Rita Nazareno is the brains behind the larger-
than-life shapes of Zacarias 1925, while the top-
notch craftsmanship and weaving techniques
come from her parents and trained artisans who
also work in S.C. Vizcarra
GET READY TO WEAR
1
2
3
6
4
Ar t Direction NICOLE ALMERO. Makeup RAFF Y SO. Hair VALERIE CORPUZ. Model JASMINE (MERCATOR). Shoot Assistant MJ ALMERO
5
9
8
1 Satin bucket hat by BERSHKA.

11 2 Chain necklaces with faux pearl
10 details by STRADIVARIUS. 3 Padlock
Hoop Earrings by TOPSHOP. 4 Denim
jacket with rhinestone fringe by ZARA.
5 Denim corset top by TOPSHOP.
9LÅLJ[P]LJYVWWLKQHJRL[I`
BERSHKA. 7 Metallic skirt by
BERSHKA. :OPTTLY`Vќ[OL
shoulder blouse by BERSHKA.
9 Blue Chuck Taylor sneaker by
CONVERSE x JW ANDERSON.
10 Vinyl mini city bag with buckle by
ZARA. 11 Leather sneakers by ZARA

20 s BLU E CRUS H
Balance out loud prints
by opting for polished
and tailored silhouettes
By LYN ALUMNO
Photography FLOYD JHOCSON of STUDIO 100
U P S I D E D OW N
Boxy and oversized
cuts are both playful
yet polished
Printed button-down by
PLASTIC HONEYMOON,
bermuda shorts by JUSTIN
LLARENA, hoop earrings
by MAZEE PH, dri-fit socks
by NIKE, and white mid-
platform sneakers by PUMA
at SOLE ACADEMY
GET READY TO WEAR
30 s
BLU E DAY DRE A M
The utility trend continues
to hold a strong grip on the
fashion front, especially in
color-blocked renditions
By LYN ALUMNO
TA K E T H E L E A P
Navy blue and gray is an
unexpectedly strong
color combination
Navy and gray jumpsuit by

JUSTIN LLARENA, hoop
earrings by MAZEE PH, and
white mules by H&M
3
2
1
10
11
1 Gold tone necklace by BALENCIAGA.

2 Textured tag drop hoop earrings by
TOPSHOP. *YVWWLK W\ќ` ZOPY[ I`
9 ZARA. 4 Double breasted denim dress
by ZARA. 5 Belted wool and silk blend
cady jumpsuit by GUCCI. 6 Printed satin
blouse by BERSHKA. 7 The Pouch large
gathered alligator clutch by BOTTEGA
VENETA. >YPURSLK LќLJ[ ]LS]L[
trousers by ZARA. 9 Blue block boot by
TOPSHOP. 10 Cassett chain embellished
padded intrecciato leather shoulder bag
by BOTTEGA VENETA. 11 125 suede
platform sandal by PRADA

GET READY TO WEAR
1
3
4
5
10
1 Lace up leather trimmed ribbed-

knit midi dress by ALEXANDER
MCQUEEN. 2 Heart earrings by
VERSACE. 3 Double breasted
crepe blazer by FENDI. 4 Signature-
embroidered denim mini dress by
VERSACE. 5 Pleated crepe de chine
gown by CAROLINA HERRERA.
9
6 Crystal dome ring by VERSACE.
8 7 Runaway leather bag by FENDI.
8 Lexi wraparound cage heel leather
sandal by SAINT LAURENT. 9 Braided
leather charm bracelet by VERSACE.
10 Intrecciato quilted leather mule by
BOTTEGA VENETA

40 s
I NTO TH E BLU E
Cool separates, especially
in monochrome, lengthen
the frame
By LYN ALUMNO
ASCENDING
Royal blue is one of the
colors that work well for
any skin tone
Oversized blue jacket and

textured skirt by JUSTIN
LLARENA, hoop earrings
by MAZEE PH and
silver gladiator shoes
by SHOEPATOS
R E TA I L T R EN D R EP O R T
BL A N K
Ar t direction NICOLE ALMERO. Makeup RAFF Y SO. Hair VALERIE CORPUZ. Model JASMINE (MERCATOR). Shoot assistant MJ ALMERO
From the conception of her
brand back in 2015, Eliz
Marcelo releases the coziest
collection yet, one that took
her out of her comfort zone
after taking a 3-year hiatus
By LYN ALUMNO

B
urnout. It is defined as the
reduction of a fuel or substance
to nothing through use or
combustion. In recent years,
we’ve seen many creatives step
down or take a hiatus from their
work due to a dizzying schedule
and intense pressure to perform. Even high-
profile labels aren’t immune— Balenciaga, Dior,
and Lanvin have seen their celebrated creatives
depart from their plum positions, despite the
fame, fortune and influence afforded to them.
Fashion industry burnout is definitely an
unwanted trend.
“There is too much information, too much
product, too fast, too much demand. And
fashion is the fastest creative cycle, historically
speaking, it’s faster than technology,” says
fashion journalist Kate Betts. “It was a six-
month cycle, but now it’s a three-month cycle
and actually if you talk to a designer at a major
house like Dior or Chanel, it’s a three-week L AY LOW
cycle. They have to create whole collections in Pastels take a step back as
three weeks.” That’s just a glimpse of how toxic neutrals keep marching on
the world of fashion can be. The industry never
needed a pandemic to change—it was already at Beige bandeau and shorts, olive
the brink of decline. green mini dress and black
jumpsuit by ELIZ MARCELO
THE LABEL and PVC
heels by SHOEPATOS
Deconstructed
button down by
IVARLUSKI
ASERON
“ SOM E T I M ES
YOU H AV E TO
EM P T Y YOURSEL F
TO B E FI L L ED
A N D H ER CUP
OV ER FLOWE T H
”
R E TA I L T R EN D R EP O R T
Eliz Marcelo is a young designer who

launched her label back in 2015 as her creative
outlet at SOMA Stores. Known for her minimal
and clean pieces that are seasonless, her brand
was an anti-thesis to the fickle-minded and ever-
changing industry.
“There weren’t a lot of local brands then
so it was easier to get noticed. The downside of
getting noticed was that I became too critical of
my work thus, my collections have been few and
far between,” Marcelo shares. It’s no doubt that
the creative landscape—not just fashion, is one
of the industries where the possibilities of being
overwhelmed is inevitable.
“In 2017, I had to stop because it got too
overwhelming,” she reveals.
Pause. Halting and stopping are two different
things. Even when things were temporarily put on
hold, the growth for Marcelo never stopped.
“My hiatus gave me an opportunity to
streamline my ideas and simplify my thought
process.” In fact, she never came to a standstill—
she just re-evaluated her ethos as a designer and
gave herself room to flourish.
A blank slate.
“I’m currently working on a new concept
for the label that I’m excited about. I’m also
trying to learn more techniques while at it
to improve my craft and to continue making
quality clothing.” Sometimes you have to empty
yourself to be filled and her cup overfloweth.
STAND TALL —The linen dress is quickly becoming a household

wardrobe staple and Eliz is always one step ahead
Olive green mini dress by ELIZ MARCELO THE LABEL

K E E P YO U R
HEAD UP
Nothing beats the
classic black jumpsuit—
an essential in
every woman’s lazy
outfit go-to.

MEGAWOMAN
Char maine
Lag man
With a mind for
business and a heart
Photos Cour tesy Charmaine Lagman, Lifestyle Asia, and Shaira Luna
to make the lives
of Filipinos easier
through construction
and premium IT
solutions, Charmaine
Lagman leads with
love and passion
By JEB FRONDA

he construction and IT industries
are generally dominated by men,
but the entry of many female
entrepreneurs and innovators
have only made them grow leaps
and bounds. Leading the pack is
Charmaine Lagman, who together
with husband Mike Lagman, built
MC Geometric Proportions.
The spark came when the duo were building their
own home. “With positive responses for our home
and with features in several magazines, clients began
approaching us. From these low rise buildings, MCGP
became a Triple-A licensed contractor; our projects
scale from homes and high rise buildings to roads and
bridges,” shares Lagman.
As the head of MCGP, she crossed paths with a
group of programmers who were discussing softwares
and programs during the early stages of e-commerce 18
years ago. This was another catalyst for Lagman to create a
path that connects IT and the needs of the local economy.
The result was Interpoint Consultancy Network Systems,
which provides IT solutions and specializing in catering to
local government units or LGUs.
“Frankly, we started from zero—from scratch.
However, our main sources of capital for both our
businesses were perseverance, courage, and faith in
God. These principles have led our construction and IT
companies to evolve throughout the years,” says Lagman.
By combining faith and perseverance to their work
ethic and vision, the Lagmans created not only a great
working relationship, but also strengthened their personal “It extends to honoring each other’s opinions and
one. One would think that working with family members is recognizing our roles in our respective departments. We
a bad idea but with Charmaine and Mike, their foundation started these companies together; we are partners, not just
has always been about respect and team work. co-owners. We have learned to leave work-related matters
in the office in such a way that we enter our homes as
husband and wife, and as father and mother. Our efforts
shift to our children, even if they are situated in Los
Angeles, New York, and Washington”
With the pandemic, Lagman admits that there was
a learning curve not only for the companies they are
leading but also in her everyday life. As a woman who is
always on the go, expected to make swift decisions in these
fast-paced fields, Lagman had to adapt to the world of
teleconferencing. Subsequently, her style has transformed
as well. She quips, “I had to adapt against mental fatigue
by designating an office space in my home and changing
the way I dressed. I now prefer wearing relaxed sun dresses
for work. It has been a transformative process reflective
of my integrated work style–not only is the office space I
work in important but also the embodied and empowering
character I feel when wearing clothes that fit the occasion
we find ourselves in.”
One could say that Lagman is now more connected
not only to her family, but also to her business because of
the pandemic. Although it was a learning process, she is
H E A D O F STAT E
more than ready lead in the new world. Here, she finds
Together with her husband, Charmaine built
new purpose with the importance of IT and construction
two companies that focuses on creating Filipino
connections through software and construction
to make Filipino lives better. All of these, plus her
adaptability, courage and perseverance make Charmaine
Lagman a true MEGA Woman.

4,.(>64(5
N AU T I CA L
M I L ES
Charmaine loves
playing with prints
,especially if the
color combinations
are refreshing
WHAT IS YOUR FASHION

PHILOSOPHY?
st yle tal k s. CL: As Leonardo Da Vinci stated,

“simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
0 ÄUK [OH[[OLYLPZLSLNHUJLPUMHZOPVU
embodying his ideal. With the pieces I
WHAT IS YOUR EARLIEST choose, I prefer to invest in those that I
FASHION MEMORY? ÄUK HYLJSHZZPJHUK[PTLSLZZ
CHARMAINE LAGMAN: I’ve always
loved fashion ever since I was six or WHAT ABOUT FASHION
seven years old. I remember using my INSPIRES YOU?
mother’s old scarves and reinventing CL: I believe in the concept of power
new pieces of clothing with them. I dressing. Fashion extends to many
would transform her scarf into a pencil HZWLJ[ZVMT`SPMLZ[`SL!P[HќLJ[ZT`
skirt or even a halter top. mood, motivates me to best represent
my company and simply brightens
WHO WAS YOUR FASHION my day. With this in mind, fashion is
ROLE MODEL WHEN YOU WERE not extreme extravagance and does
GROWING UP? not need to be expensive. It is about
CL: I will always admire my creating your own unique collage with
grandmother, Mommy Ba. When I was KPќLYLU[WPLJLZ[OH[YLWYLZLU[^OV`V\
eight years old, I used to sneak into her are, with of course, a splash of fun.
room and stare in awe at her closets. Fashion inspires me to bring out my
They ranged from fur coats to suits, inner creativity.
which were color-coordinated and
neatly arranged. Even at home, there ARE YOU A SHOE OR BAG LOVER?
was never a moment where she was OR BOTH? WHAT ARE YOUR
not fashionable. Her hair would always FAVORITE BRANDS
IL Ä_LK HUK Z[`SLK HUK ZOL W\[ [OV\NO[ FOR BOTH?
into choosing what clothes to wear that CL: 0 HTIV[O4`^OVSLV\[Ä[PZX\P[L
SVVRLK ZPTWS` LќVY[SLZZ 6U [VW VM HSS YLSPHU[ VUÄUKPUN[OLYPNO[IHNHUK
this, her accessories complemented shoes. Jimmy Choos are my go-to when
her looks as well; from her hats to even 0 HT H[ ^VYR"0JHUL]LUY\UPU[OLT
umbrellas, they were coordinated with 6\[ZPKLVM^VYR0SV]L.PHU]P[V9VZZP
OLY V\[Ä[ 0 SV]L OLY ZLUZL VM MHZOPVU! as well as Moynat and Perrin clutches to
classy, stylish, timeless. JVTWSLTLU[T`ZOVLZHUKV\[Ä[
30 6*;6),9c4,.(65,4,.(*64
DO YOU ALSO LOVE TO ACCESSORIZE?
WHICH DESIGNERS/BRANDS DO YOU GO
TO FOR THAT STATEMENT ACCESSORY?
in ner
CL: I can always count on Gucci and Chanel
for my belts, Chloe for my sunglasses and
Dior for my hats.
ref lections
WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE DESIGNERS, WHAT CHANGES HAPPENED IN YOUR
BOTH LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL? MINDSET BECAUSE OF THE PANDEMIC?
CL: I love my pieces from Rajo Laurel, Puey CL: The pandemic has challenged parts of
Quiñones and Inno Sotto. They embody many my mind that I’ve taken for granted. One is this
aspects of my fashion philosophy with their mindset on expecting normality. I’ve accepted
timeless pieces. I also am fond of collecting ups and downs as part of life, but did not
pieces from Simon Porte Jacquemus, Dries Van anticipate something as life changing as this. The
Noten, and Valentino. They have been my staples pandemic took a lot of what I thought to be part
for developing my style and building my closet. of my normal existence out of the equation, and
when I examined what’s left, I noticed I still have
WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON my faith and my family. And I think this resonates
TODAY’S FASHION? among all walks of life. My mindset has shifted
CL: In general, today’s fashion is more bold, from an ordinary normalcy into an extraordinary
energetic, vibrant, and fun. Designers and piety, to indulge in the givenness of life so
brands are inventive in taking inspiration sacred and beautiful and to take each day as a
from fashion of the past, integrating them blessing– a reminder that not everything can be
with modernity and elegance. If related to understood or be fully under our control.
the pandemic, I find that fashion has been
influenced by the change in lifestyles during
these challenging times. Although most people
work from home, it is important to balance both
stylishness and comfort in the clothes we wear.
Your clothing radiates the inner you and brings
out this vibrant energy to others. It is important
now more than ever to prioritize aspects of your
life that maintain your social well-being.
S U N S H I N E STAT E
In many of her travels,
Charmaine never forgets to
prepare looks that equal their
stunning backdrops

MEGAWOMAN
WHAT MAKES YOU SMILE?

CL: The simplest of things make me smile daily and
involuntarily. It’s for this reason I call these lovely
tidbits coming from grace. Being able to play my role
as a mother: preparing the dining table for my family
everyday, catching up with my kids on how their day
went; and when my husband simply holds my hand
serendipitously; all of these are my personal moments
of happiness. And even at work, fulfilling my goals
bring a smile to my face for being able to partake in
projects with a hardworking and devoted team that
contribute to the progress of our economy.
WHERE IN THE WORLD WILL YOU TRAVEL

AFTER ALL THIS IS OVER?
CL: When this is all over, I plan to fly straight to
DC and New York to visit my children as soon as
possible. In spite of the virtual calls and weekly
masses we attend as a family, this is the longest
our family has been physically separated. I’m
hopeful for the day that I can spend time with
them catching up over dinner, movies or just in our
rooms together in person.
WHAT IS THE MOST DEFINING MOMENT OF

YOUR LIFE THUS FAR?
CL: The most defining moment in my life is this
moment, knowing that in spite of everything that
happened until now, my family, and I are all safe
and together in spirit–in faith, hope and love. Love
truly never fails.
WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE SECRET TO A

HAPPY LIFE?
CL: The secret to a happy life can be found in being
able to share the beautiful gifts and fruits of life
together with people who you love and love you, with
a mutual understanding and respect, rooted in faith,
hope, and charity. In the lifelong commitment I’ve
made as a wife and a mother in my marriage, I am
constantly reminded of reasons why life is worth living
and what it represents. In the intricacies of daily life,
I cherish every moment I have spent growing with
my family in love. I am a firm believer in the saying that
actions speak louder than words; I hold onto all of these
forms of active affection from them no matter how
small. A happy life, in short, is an active and loving life.
WHAT IS NEXT FOR CHARMAINE LAGMAN?

CL: As a businesswoman, I am ready to take on the
obstacles that lie ahead; I am more motivated to work
harder for my company and continue making strides
in contributing to the country’s economy. On the
other hand, as a mother and wife, I will continue being
devoted to my family. I will be there for my husband
and children through every step of the way and do
my best to support them through life’s challenges. I
look forward to forging unforgettable memories and
am honored to be able to walk through life with them
no matter where we are, as long as we are united
together in spirit.

S PEC I A L F E AT U R E
A League Of
Their Own Cartier introduces the new faces of the Pasha
By STEPHANIE FERRER
T
he iconic Pasha de Cartier invites people to
take a wider view of the world through defying WILLOW SMITH
conformity with creativity. It has attracted like-
minded individuals generation after generation. “You always have to bite off more
And with the coming of the latest Pasha, a new circle than you can chew to evolve as a
of popular and widely successful artists have been person and especially as an artist,
chosen to be its ambassadors. and prove to yourself that you can
do this and that you can expand.”
TROYE SIVAN Multi-threat singer and activist Willow
Smith doesn’t let herself be pigeon-
“Who I am is very closely linked holed. All areas of expression interest
to what I make. I’m really her and serve her achievements. She
pushing myself to explore the alsohoststhetalkshowRedTableTalk,
edges of my creative pursuits.” popular for dealing with all the social
Having faith in his creativity, defying and cultural issues of the moment.
all obstacles, and expressing his
personality without compromise: RAMI MALEK
these are the keys to the success
of singer-songwriter and actor “I gravitate to roles that are inspiring
Troye Sivan. Time magazine and progressive. It’s my hope that
described him as “the perfect pop some of these choices contribute
star of 2018” and he continued to moving the industry forward.”
his rise with his album, Bloom. Committed to seeking out
transformative roles that challenge
expectations, actor Rami Malek
MAISIE WILLIAMS follows his own path. He garnered
attention for his starring role
“To build something and take an in the ingenious series Mr.
idea from just an idea to a full-blown Robot, and made waves when he
project, it really does take a village. portrayed Queen frontman Freddie
So for me it’s about finding the right Mercury in the award-winning
Photos cour tesy of MEGA ARCHIVES

team, finding people who you trust.” biopic Bohemian Rhapsody.
Known best for her portrayal of
Arya Stark in the hit HBO series
Game of Thrones, Maisie Williams “These new Pasha ambassadors
places teamwork at the heart of her owe their success to their
artistic achievements. The actress differences, creativity, connection,
is also a committed entrepreneur,
with several start-ups intended multidisciplinary talents, and
to connect figures and creatives generosity,” shared Arnaud Carrez,
to initiate collaborative projects. International Marketing and
Communications Director of Cartier
JACKSON WANG International. The Pasha de Cartier
resonates with today’s aeon of new
“There’s no final destination in life, but every step towards
creators, and will continue to inspire a
your goal, every chapter in your history, is a big time
for me. Just trust yourself and write your own history.” new generation.
A source of inspiration for an entire generation, Chinese rapper/
For more information on the Pasha de Cartier watch and community, visit
singer/dancer Jackson Wang draws his energy from a need to
encourage young people to be themselves. He also created his own Cartier’s website <cartier.com>
Team Wang label in which he mixes hip-hop,R&B,andrapinfluences. Cartier is located at Greenbelt 4, Solaire Resorts and Casino, and Rustan’s Shangri-La.

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
TH E
ROMAN. Spec a thanks to MANNY HAL ASAN

I M AGI N A R I U M AS Mode PRUDENCE ROMAN
Living in this universe is either seeing yourself as a wave

or as the ocean in its entirety, and upcoming designer
Darlenne Rivera chooses the latter
N COL AS.
Make p ALL ANA NICOL
By LYN ALUMNO. Photography ANJO SUNGA

Makeup
Y
ou know that famous quote
by author Isak Dinesen that
was constantly shared on the
Internet before? “The cure for
anything is salt water: sweat,
tears, and the sea.” Every girl
who went through a tragedy
either framed it on their walls, had them on
a tote bag, or even inked permanently—a
visual reminder of how water heals you in
different aspects of life. The song of the sea
is an otherworldly one. No wonder it served
as muse for artists centuries ago up until
this day. It cradles you with ripples of stillness,
but haunts you with the crashing waves.
Young designer Darlenne Rivera
alluded her first collection to the calmness
of the ocean, the openness of the sky, and
the hopes of having her own tale of happily
ever after. Her palette of choice is abundant
with blue tones, drowning the darkness yet
finding the light beneath the shore. “I’ve
always believed that constant happiness
only exists in fairytales. Yet people forget
that sadness is part of our lives, too. Which
is why I went with that color scheme.”
T H E C R OW N
Darlenne won one
of the major awards
during Benilde’s grad
show with her fashion-
forward techniques
NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
C O M E I N WAV ES
Darlenne’s inspiration came
in the form of a glassboat, the
ocean cradling her ceasingly
The collection is reminiscent of a journey in a glass-

bottomed boat and came in forms of a nipped waist yet
belled-skirt silhouette, intricately crocheted dresses and
the use of shimmery tulle mimicking iridescent scaled
creatures. “The softness of a dream and the harshness of
reality creates an interesting vision. I called it Dream of
Happiness, and used the crocheting technique because it
gives me a calming feeling.” Crocheting may not be a top-
of-the-mind choice when constructing garments, but its
painstaking and tedious methods eases your senses in a
satisfying way. “My brand is based off of fantasy and reality,
invoking feelings of nostalgia, mystery, and individuality.
It is not limited to what you think it is, but it is open to all
possibilities, to cater to those who believe.”
Life’s adversities can turn us into soft shells and the sea
grass may always be greener on the other side of the lake. But
like the rising designer, you just have to keep swimming.
“I’ve always believed that constant happiness only exists in fairytales. Yet people forget
that sadness is part of our lives, too. Which is why I went with that color scheme.”
37
DESIGNER PROFILE
Ar t direction JANN PASCUA. Makeup and Hair ARJAY ZURITA JR. Model VICTORIA (NEW MONARQ)
MULTI-
COLORED
DREAMS Known for his rapturous prints, Noel Crisostomo
infuses a collection of protective utilitarian
pieces with his luxurious red carpet aesthetic
By JEB FRONDA. Photography FLOYD JHOCSON of STUDIO 100

OUT HERE
C H I L L I N’
With breezier cuts and
silhouettes, Crisostomo
makes sure that each
piece is comfortable and
protective enough for
the outside world
DESIGNER PROFILE
STA M P O F
A PPR OVA L
Inspired by vintage Filipino
stamps, Crisostomo
also infused local design
elements to this collection

T
he pandemic is a great challenge
to the fashion industry, but for
designer Noel Crisostomo, he took it
on by going straight to the essence of
fashion—the fun and fantastic. “My
color choices and prints become
more bright and cheery to help buoy
everyone’s spirits during this dark times,” he shares.
This optimistic point-of-view didn’t just come
because of the pandemic, but has been a value present
throughout his designer journey.
It was from an encyclopedia where a young
Crisostomo first laid eyes on the transformative
power of fashion. “I saw a black and white photo
of Christian Dior with The New Look creation
holding a ruler showing how [much] he had raised
the hemline. It intrigued me so much because it
was such a beautiful image,” he says.
His path became clearer in his second year as
an architecture student in the University of Santo
Tomas. His professor suggested for him to try fashion
design upon noticing Crisostomo’s beautiful sketches
of women in the background of his design plates.
After graduating, he then flew to Toronto, Canada to
embrace his destiny by taking up a degree in apparel
FUN design at Ryerson University. From there he got a
IN THE position in the label Ports 1961, which brought him to
SUN China. In 2007, he went back to Manila to establish
From his own atelier.
stripes to Because of his skill in marrying international
psychedelic
prints,
techniques with Philippine design origins, his
trust that
success came to no surprise, as it appealed to many
Crisostomo stylish Filipinos. His streamlined, polished yet
will make his current and fun creations made everyone fall in love
pieces fun with his pieces.
and vibrant “You can wear Noel’s clothes inside and out,”
says Philippine style icon and congresswoman
Lucy Torres-Gomez.
Through his travels and jaunts around the
world, he is able to translate these inspiring
journeys into his collections.
“Whenever I will start a new collection, I would

DESIGNER PROFILE
always travel and get inspired. I would watch a lot

of inspirational movies, look through my fashion,
history of costume and pattern-making books,”
says Crisostomo. “I will also look through my
last season’s collections and check what styles
sold the most and what styles I particularly like
to continue or tweak.”
With business also in mind he and his
husband, Roland Alzate, built Queen Street
West, a store that houses Crisostomo’s and
Alzate’s ready-to-wear lines.
The pandemic pushed Crisostomo to go
back to his roots and applying it to the current
needs of his clients. “I am a designer who is
always in tune with what is happening in the
world. Each season I try to bring something
new and fresh,” he said of his new collection
of protective suits. Using whimsical prints
such as Filipino vintage stamps, Crisostomo
was able to combine both form and function,
especially in this changed world.
With several years of experience in the fashion
industry, Crisostomo values his relationships
with his clients and staff, deeming them as the
most important. His advice to young designers is
to think outside of the box and to treat one’s team
the same way one would one’s clients and friends.
This understanding of the fashion ecology and
his ever sharp mind has made Noel Crisostomo
an everlasting in the world of fashion.
“ M Y COLOR CH O ICES
A ND PR I N TS BECOM E
M OR E B R IGH T A N D
CH EERY TO H EL P
BUOY E V ERYON E’S
SPI R I TS DUR I NG T H IS
UP & UP
With this
collection,
Crisostomo
aims to uplift
the spirit of his
clients through
vibrant color
combinations
DA R K T I M ES

PE R F E CT
PA I R
Crisostomo made
sure to create
co-ord pieces
that can be used
together or paired
up separately
E ATURES M I D DAY WA L K
Travel photographer and mixed
media artist Lea Valenzuela’s
collage art are from her past
travels and adventures. The
outdoors as a form of inspiration
also became a way of de-stressing
and recharging for the artist
Text TRINA EPILEPSIA BOUTAIN. Ar t LEA VALENZUEL A

10 20
LIFT OFF
nd just like that we’re in the

last legs of the year. Early
on in 2020, the internet
was already rife with
memes about what a sh*t
show it was turning out
to be. We asked ourselves
(often), really, how much
worse can it be?
Mind you, it’s still
not over. Not by a long shot. Many of us are still
burdened by the prospect of death and illness
lingering in the air, of life compressing within the
same four walls we’ve been staring at for almost
a year now, of being stretched out until we feel
unbearably light for our being.
It’s not over, but we have to get on. We
have to get going. And we start by doing what
we’ve been doing since we started being human,
since we started enduring life’s tragedies and
catastrophes: we tell stories. Let’s start by creating
ones out of hope. In Food, we ask people how
they’re coping, what they’ve learned and what
they see in the future. In Feature Story, a writer
shares her thoughts on the tangible benefiits of
lofty art in a time that is, frankly, horrifiic. Lastly,
in Relationship, we dip into the hearts and minds
of lovers after six months of being tethered to one
another, 24/7. “How are you doing?” we ask them
as they down another glass of wine.
How are you doing?

FOOD
NO
H o w c a n fo o d b r i n g
p e o p l e t o g et h e r i n a
m i d d l e o f a p a n d e m i c?
By MIA CASTRO
R ESERV ATIO NS
A
n thony Bourdain
once said: “Food is
everything we are.”
An extension of our
history and soul,
the value of eating
meals as a family is
deeply embedded in
Filipino culture. Food is the center
of every celebration that can bring
everyone together. Eating out at our
most-loved restaurants for Sunday
dinners have always been part of our
weekly routines. However, the act of
dining out with our loved ones has
now completely changed. Because
of the pandemic, any form of social
gathering is now prohibited. The once
EXVWOLQJVWUHHWVÀOOHGZLWKUHVWDXUDQWV
is now unrecognizable with many
forced to close down and some with
only a handful of customers a day.
$V WKH ÀJKW IRU VXUYLYDO FRQWLQXHV
we asked the professionals to share
WKHLU XQÀOWHUHG WUXWKV LQ NHHSLQJ WKH
industry alive.

ROLL WITH IT
Robby Goco, Executive Chef of Cyma Greek Taverna,
Green Pastures, and Souv! by Cyma tells us that during
this time, you just have to roll with the punches and keep
on moving in order to adapt to the new normal.
Like many other establishments, he closed shop
during the ECQ and was fearful that his customers would
never return. To his surprise, a day after the ECQ, his
restaurants were inundated with take out requests and
deliveries. Chef Goco states that it is important for the
customers to have the confidence that they are in an
environment that is safe to enjoy the food. The chef also
shared that controlling costs also took some creativity.
In order to be practical, he decided to use the shared
kitchen concept wherein two of his restaurants operated
in one shared kitchen.
The chef emphasized that the customers aren’t
the only ones who should be taken care of, but the
employees as well. With the pandemic, many value
their employment to make ends meet along with
having medical insurance. “You know how important
their job is to them, we don’t want to lose any of them.
Talk to everyone and make sure lines are open and
everyone is well-looked after.” The chef expresses
that there should always be a conscious effort to keep FAMILY FEAST
everyone safe and virus-free. Food always tastes
Chef Robby Goco, famous for saying “good better when shared.
food is a right, not a privilege,” continues to uphold Here, famous
his belief through always offering something new. holiday meals are
“Because everyone is doing the same sushi bake packed and ready
to be served at the
and ube pandesal, you have to do something that
comfort of your
is yours and unique,” he explains, noting that many own home
kitchenettes are serving the same dishes. Because
of social media, the market has now grown even
bigger, making it harder to get recognized.
To make his mark, his latest ventures include ideas

inspired from his own family and by studying the market.
An idea that sprung from his daily routine of cooking
for his daughters and wife during the lockdown, he
now serves various large family format meals in Green
Pastures. Serving his recipes in bigger portions that
are harder to execute, allows all families alike to enjoy
them during this quarantine. His Grab and Go Greek
boxes for Souv! and Cyma was inspired by none other
than the concept of pizza boxes. As customers are now
prioritizing accessibility, the concept of food served in
a box fits well because it is more convenient and even
easier to store when you want to save it for later.
While struggles remain with some of his restaurants,
he still believes that the food industry will continue to
survive. “People will always get hungry. There’s always
three to four opportunities in a day for an opportunity to
serve and sell,” he says. Each restaurateur will continue
to face challenges during this troubling time but for
Chef Robby Goco, there is no other way but up for the
restaurant scene. It just has to keep on fighting.

FOOD
seen in every city. Grocery aisles started going empty

that the government had to set quantity limitations
for certain items. We had to learn how to budget and
allocate our resources in order to avoid going outside
our homes to minimize exposure. Now, six months
into the quarantine, Go makes an important note
that stretching resources is vital these days. “As a
HOME SWEET HOME homemaker, I make sure that I can get every bit of
The comfort of a use from what I buy. Veggies that aren’t at its best
home-cooked meal is state goes into a soup, leftover meats can be made
not unlike any other. Go into sandwiches for breakfast or lunch,” she explains.
shows us that cooking The influx of people cooking and selling their own
for your family can be as goods online is very evident these days. Sabrina believes
sweet and easy as pie
that anybody can cook with the right time and patience
and because of the lockdown, many have both. This then
results to resources being scarce, and extra effort in grocery
shopping. “I used to do everything myself, so expressing
what I needed and the fact that I had to choose places that
would have most of what I needed was a struggle,” she
explains as her husband was the only one who was able to
step out to buy their essentials.
REAL INFLUENCE This is the reason why food writers are rising to the occasion
As the writer of Sinfully Sabrina, a food blog known for as the go-to for recipes, tips and tricks on how to find your
indulgent recipes of cakes and other goods, Sabrina Go’s way around the kitchen. A community where amateur
role as a content creator was tested during the pandemic cooks can talk and help one another and individuals like
and quarantine. Like many people, she put her work on Go paves the way for that. As one of the founders of Mother
hold for a while and focused on her family—especially Who Brunch, they have launched virtual cooking sessions
her newborn son. Part of her struggles were simple— on their page called #cookfest through Zoom, where along
something that many people could relate, too. “When I with their other friends can cook together while tackling
craved for something, I could easily go to the restaurant more advanced recipes.
and be instantly satisfied,” she shares. Manila was enjoying The kitchen is the heart of every home and despite
a lively restaurant scene, and as families were spoilt for all the problems we have to face, Go tell us that cooking
choice when it came to finding a location to celebrate an doesn’t have to be one of them. “Remember that most of
event. Go had big plans to celebrate the special occasions the time you can substitute ingredients in your recipe,” she
that were happening this year. From a planned wedding says. “Not everything will be available and it’s okay. Don’t
anniversary, birthday, and baptism, she had to adjust them sweat it.” Her advice, while aimed specifically for cooking,
all because of the pandemic. Nevertheless, Go stresses can also be applied to the rest of life in a society that has
that Filipinos know how to make the best out of anything. endured one of the longest lockdowns in the world. As we
“But one thing Filipinos do well is adapt, so there have been re-start, let’s be kind to ourselves if things aren’t exactly
groups who have been doing e-numans, or joining each how we want it. It’s okay; don’t sweat it.
other [virtually] via a Zoom birthday party or sending each
other food kits and such,” she states.
At the beginning of the pandemic lockdown,
panic buying and hoarding of grocery supplies was
regarding the closing some of the businesses’ high-end
sides. This came about in order to re-open much smaller
businesses such as park-side or garden restaurants.
Reichenbach explains that during this time, learning from
smaller businesses can also be helpful especially on how
to be a little bit more accessible and affordable for the
general public while still maintaining top quality.
The importance of setting Marco Polo apart from
the rest of the market is expressed by their team in
consistently delivering quality services and dishes made
from top products. Even during this extraordinary time,
Reichenbach states that the hotel will not compromise
the level of excellence that it is known for. The main
challenge when it comes to the dishes served at the
different restaurants of the hotel is that in a normal
scenario, the costumer enjoys the food the minute it’s
out of the kitchen. Whereas during this quarantine, the
setup changes for dishes that are ordered to-go and
enjoyed at home, an hour or so after it has been served.
Reichenbach explains that this is the reason why there
are some dishes that the hotel cannot serve. However,
they have become more innovative in discovering new
cooking and packing techniques to preserve dishes that
they have opened for take-out and pick-up.
“We will always love food, love quality, and love
presentation,” Reichenbach says.
ADOPT ADAPT
Marco Polo, the luxury hotel and four-time Forbes Travel
Guide Five-Star Awardee, shows that their main priority is
reassuring their customers and building their confidence
NOTHING IS
in the hotel during this pandemic. General Manager
IMPOSSIBLE
Frank Reichenbach admits that keeping up with the
constant change in quarantine guidelines imposed on “One cannot live well, if
one has not dined well.”
the country is still no easy feat. Even with their flexibility,
Marco Polo makes this
there is still difficulty in forecasting what they will have to possible despite the
adapt to. “We are all on the same boat. There is no one quarantine with their
place that has great business as we are all having none Flavours-To-Go menu
to low business,” he says. and delectable cakes
The hotel holds its safety standards to the utmost from Café Pronto
importance to ensure that not only guests are safe
but also their associates. Kristine Facto, Marketing
and Communications Director, explains that even at
the height of the lockdown, there were still associates
rendering services due to still having guests in house.
Learning along the way, they received guidance from the
World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). “We follow
a very stringent set of bio-security protocols called
the Safe Travel Protocols,” she says. The main pillar of
their communication plan and their crisis response is
to remain clear and transparent with the extra steps
they are taking for their guests, clients, and associates
by disseminating it through the various platforms. “We
wanted to get further third-party validation that what we
do here in Marco Polo is the best. We set a standard not
necessarily just for our industry but for all companies.”
Reichenbach explains how the landscape of the
restaurant industry has changed because of the
pandemic. He shares the insights he gained from a
conversation with some of his friends and colleagues

F E AT U R E STO RY
art
for the
world’s
sak e How can the
a r ts b e a s av i ng
g race du r i ng
t h e p a n d e m i c?
By DANIELA ESPELIMBERGO

HALF EMPT Y
“Aside from it being personal, now more
than ever, art should be political—it can be a
powerful and crucial instrument to pave ways
for change”—JULIA TABOR, @juliaklaryz
F E AT U R E STO RY
PA N D E M I C
“Art has always been
my little door to endless
possibilities. Growing
up, I would spend my
afternoon drawing objects
on my walls. Having been
born into a life far from
being opulent, art was
my only way to escape
from and travel outside
the four corners of my
room. Now, in the time
of COVID crisis, art still
remains to be my portal
to the outside world.
Imagination and hope
become a tool to survive
in this trying time. Art is
a companion to keep me
sane. Art is my normal”—
JENRY HARRIZ VIVAR,
@harrizvivar
“
rt should comfort the
disturbed, and disturb the
comfortable,” is a famous
quote by Mexican poet
and activist Cesar A. Cruz
that holds great weight
in the current world we
inhabit. It can be hard to
find reprieve from all the
chaos we’re surrounded
in. Even just for a while,
the arts have always been
a place where one can be
freed from the trappings of daily life, especially now where
the year is marked with unforeseen circumstances. With
each month that goes by, it seems that nothing is going
L I L L I ES
right for this year; but none have been as devastating and
life-altering than the coronavirus. provide us so much solace, inspiration, and
humanity—both in times of rejoice, and
For months, we’ve been under orders to follow distress”—MIMI CAMILLE, @dollicandy
quarantine protocols that resigned ourselves to our homes
and put a halt to our plans. Our economy is greatly affected
by the pandemic, as well with many businesses closing
down and countless cases of unemployment. Even during
a time of a great global crisis, we cannot but bear witness
to many social problems still taking center stage in our
society. All of these combined makes for a time marred
with fears, anxieties, and uncertainties. This has fostered a
restless environment where the frustration that the people
face under quarantine, is evidently seen through their
social media posts. Getting through these historical times
have been nothing short of challenging. Although the arts
and entertainment industry has been greatly affected, its
importance in our lives is now more apparent.
With museums, theaters, and the likes, closing their
doors due to restrictions and regulations in the new
normal, it can be quite hard to perceive how the industry
will continue to survive. Despite this, many artists and
their works have found their way into the internet, even
ones that were made to be experienced in a live setting. For
instance, when TBA Studios made their movies available
to watch on their YouTube channel, or when several film
festivals such as Sundance and Cannes participated in the
online film festival called We Are One: A Global Film
Festival. The event not only showcased award-winning
handpicked films, but it served as a donation drive for
COVID-19 relief efforts as well.
Theater shows have also forayed into the world of virtual
showings to provide the much-needed entertainment while
helping organizations and institutions. The Cultural
Center of the Philippines also followed in pursuit of
making their theater productions free to watch on their
YouTube channel. Virtual concerts have made it possible

F E AT U R E STO RY
for musicians to continue sharing their music with

their fans. All these continued efforts to thrive in a
precarious time for them is a testament to how art
is a mainstay in people’s lives; it is there to provide
a needed place for when the going gets tough.
This was the case when it was announced that the
hit stage musical Ang Huling El Bimbo would be
made available to watch online. Everyone, including
UNTITLED myself, rejoiced for now we have the chance to
“We’re all living in our own worlds now because witness the spectacle behind the famed production.
of the pandemic and as artists, our vital role is to Giving credit where credit is due, AHEB greatly
communicate visually the circumstances at hand, delivered when it comes to music, choreography,
and when we do, we also heal a part of our selves acting a rollercoaster of emotions and a great sense
and others through various forms of art”—FELIZE of nostalgia through Eraserheads’ music. It brought
CAMILLE TOLENTINO, @felizecamille
back memories of a time wherein I would simply just
listen to the songs of the band, making me long for
a time wherein everything seemed less complicated.
his sudden influx of artistic

content online isn’t only limited
to those in the industry. Normal
citizens alike have found a safe
space in exploring the arts as a
coping mechanism. With the
amount of time we’ve been
spending inside our homes,
we’ve had more moments to explore other areas in
our lives that we’ve been putting off for a while.
From drawing to painting, writing or making music,
people have been exploring art in order to stimulate
creativity. It is a way to pass the monotonous daily
life whilst in lockdown as a form of self-expression.
I’ve witnessed in myself and my artistic friends how
making something we love helps alleviate us from
moments of pain and darkness. How making art
for a lot of us can bring about solace in a way that is
currently not easy to find.
This keeps us afloat through these tumultuous
times, providing an escape from our reality. The
creation of art translates the intense emotions
we have been bottling up. It is a way for releasing
tension, to see our worries and thoughts flow
through our work in which we can find peace. Art
is a medium in which we get a better understanding
of the world; a brand-new lens to look at the events
that unfold before us. We create things from what
currently affects us to make sense of it. We share
these with others to reach out and hopefully make
meaningful connections. Art, more than any facet
of our lives and society, is the best medium to uplift
humanity through times of despair.
All illustrations featured in this article are
available for purchase. Contact the artists via
Instagram @juliaklaryz, @harrizvivar, @
dollicandy, @felizecamille and @lealeii for
more details.

RUSH HOUR
“I’m often overwhelmed by the turmoil of my own thoughts and
emotions. It was also especially difficult for me to cope with the feeling
of being in f lux and in anxiety until I allowed myself to feel all of my
feelings and turn it into art. Creating collages of worlds reimagined
became therapeutic to me as it provided me a safe outlet to translate my
emotions. It gives me not only a sense of control, but also of surrender:
like how mother nature, where my works are inspired by, continuously
reminds us how beautiful change and letting go can be.”—LEA
VALENZUELA, @lealeii

E AU T Y
Y I N A N D YA N G
Life is a balancing act.
Switch up your eyeliner look
by going with the classic
black liner on some days
and the updated white liner
during the others
Black and white leather masks

by JOCO COMENDADOR,
draped eromenos cropped top
by JANN BUNGCARAS and
halter top with double slit by
PATRICK TRINIDAD
Text TRINA EPILEPSIA BOUTAIN. Photography RX ANDY CAPINPIN

10 20
S TAY B E A U T I F U L
I
t’s an innocuous greeting, a cheeky
adieu to a girlfriend, a lover. Stay
beautiful, beautiful.
Many of us spent a good part of
the year in hibernation, barely touching
the jars and tubes and pans that was
part of our daily routine. Many of
our essentials became, well, non-
essential: the lipstick covered by a face mask;
the highlighter unseen in the virtual world.
Hairstyles grew out, nails remained unpainted…
Beauty was undone, laid bare.
But we did not simply let go. Working from
home and with time on our side, skincare became
a bigger deal, as did health, which made exercise
and eating well become bigger priorities.
Stay beautiful.
These days, we use it out of hope, out
of defiance. It’s the message we got from the
bigwigs of beauty—the ones whose words you’ll
read in the next few pages. Yes, they took a
beating, but there’s no time to beat around the
bush. They’re raring to go back, however slowly.
It’s also the message of our annual MEGA
Beauty Awards, where we celebrate the little
things that kept our spirits up.
In the midst of the gloom and doom,
sometimes we would stand up from the couch,
dot on some cream blush, add a swipe of lipstick
and pour ourselves a glass of wine. We’re psyching
ourselves. We’re biding our time. Business is not
the usual, and it won’t be for a while, but that’s
okay. We embrace change, just as surely as we’ve
embraced dewy foundation, and bushy brows.
We’ll get there. In the meantime, stay beautiful.

RULEBOOK
CROSSI NG
Ar t direction NICOLE ALMERO. Makeup NADYNNE ESGUERRA. Hair ALDRIN JAL ANDONI. St yling GEE JOCSON. Model AMANDA Z AMORA (MERCATOR TALENT AGENCY )
TH E
G o n e a r e t h e d ay s o f a s i mp l e w i n g e d
l i n e r t o m a k e o u r e y e s p o p. It’s a l l
a b o ut t a k i n g it t o t h e n e x t s t e p
By MIA CASTRO. Photography RXANDY CAPINPIN.
MOD BOSS
Need to channel your inner boss?
Level up your eyeliner game by
taking a note from beauty icon,
Twiggy. In the mod era, her
doe-eyed makeup was all the
rage. So, why not combine it with
our everyday winged liner by
continuing the end of the f lick
and lining the whole crease—
transforming it into a whole
new edgy look. Innocent? No.
Powerful? Yes
Pink blazer by D’ ELLE, glasses &

pearl chain by MORDERNÒ, and
accessories by CLASSIC PIECES MNL
FA L L A N G E L
A f loating white liner is
the trick to accentuate the
eyes. Pat in an eye primer
for a matte base and create
an illusion of wings on
your crease. This will help
lift and achieve that wide-
awake look. For an added
pop, place simple white
dots on the lower lid. Dust
on some coral blush and
pair it with a burnt orange
lip to truly capture the
warm essence of fall
Suede blazer by
ANTONINA, snakeskin
long coat by JACE
QUIAMBAO, and
accessories by CLASSIC
PIECES MNL
E L E C T R IC L OV E — Strokes of neon on the lids will grab anyone’s attention.
Reach for colors that are out of your comfort zone from orange to green to show your
playful side. If it’s too overwhelming, tone it down by adding white into the mix to
still keep it bright. With a graphic eye look, you don’t need to do much for the rest of
your makeup. Keep everything else fresh with glossy lips and glowing skin
Pinstripe dress & vest by HANSEN, sunglasses & gold chain by MORDERNO,
and earrings by CLASSIC PIECES MNL
THESIS
Seeing
Too Much
Of Me
What we perceive
in the mirror is not
always reality. Here,
we navigate finding a
safe space away from
body dysmorphia
By MIA CASTRO
S
imilar to many people, I have had a reflection once again and frown, one arm having
strange relationship with my body and brought my phone a little closer while the other has
appearance. As the quarantine extends started scratching the bump on my face.
and idle time is easy to come by, I find I quickly snap out it and say to myself out loud,
myself staring at the mirror more “No, you are not going through this again.”
Photos cour tesy of MEGA ARCHIVES

often. However, the longer And by this again, I mean falling back into a
I stare, the more my mind vicious cycle of body dysmorphia.
MIND
magnifies my flaws like the acne marks on my B A T T L E A few years back in college, I would spend
cheek, how my arms aren’t toned anymore, or The greatest semestral break in our secluded rest house in
the rough skin on my knees. I look at another enemy could be Antipolo. With little to no signal and anything
mirror and it has turned into a carnival yourself. It’s a to keep me busy, I found myself with days on
funhouse, distorting my whole appearance war that can only end picking at my face. One hand holding a
and making me feel something far from fun. be won by laying mirror and the other holding a tweezer, scraping
I try to distract myself by going on social down the armor at my skin and the pimples that I wanted gone.
media. I scroll through Instagram Stories and and choosing to
love than fight
The problem was, even the smallest of bumps
many of which are people working out or looked like huge pimples. So, I would force it to
sharing how their skin has cleared throughout pop, making it scar, then picking and tearing
the lockdown. I turn to YouTube and the most at it again until raw. This was the cycle I would
recommended content are different exercise videos spend hours doing alone in my room. I turned away
with the captions such as “Gain Abs in 1 week.” from my family, convinced that they were all liars
None of these gave me comfort. Frustrated, I shut since they wouldn’t see the imperfections I had. I even
my phone and the black screen appears. I see my made excuses to hide my face from my partner during

“ I T WAS A
CONSTA N T BAT T L E
W I T H M Y M I N D AS
I T B LU R R ED T H E
L I N ES B E T WEEN
THE REAL AND
T H E I M AGI N A RY
”
video calls. Taking pictures of my face was part of my
daily routine so that I could track if any of my scars
would fade. Waking up and living through the day
became such a task because all I wanted to do was
cry myself to sleep and wake up to a brand new day
to check if any of my scars have disappeared.
In college, I also ended up exercising with
the wrong mindset. I would push myself to go to
the gym every day and workout to the point of
kneeling down in front of our dorm room just to
get it to open before passing out. Researching the
exercises other people were doing felt like a test
where, if I did it correctly, I would get the same
results as them. This led into hatred over myself
and the person I was comparing myself to when
we wouldn’t look the same after.
Having body dysmorphic disorder highlighted
every flaw I had and made new ones after overcoming
one. Satisfaction with my appearance was always
temporary. The anxiety that there is something
wrong with me returns, and I felt compelled to fiix
something that didn’t need fiixing. It was a constant
battle with my mind as it blurred the lines between
the real and the imaginary.
During this quarantine, spending an increasing
amount of time with myself and my appearance has
both been harmful and benefiicial to how I view
myself. We are exposed to our reflection everyday
through Zoom video calls for work or school,
BL ANK SCREEN
FaceTime calls with our relatives, or even just the
mirror on our desk. Social media has also become a
Quarantine has increased our exposure to our own
place where intrusive thoughts can start because of the
ref lections through the screens of our gadgets. This
can take a toll on how we view ourselves
comparison we make to a curated photo or an edited
selfiie. There is also a sudden surge of online workout
videos telling you to get fiit this lockdown, and let’s not
forget the dreaded comments of “Tumaba ka ah!” or
“wala kang ginawa kung hindi kumain” from some of
our family members.

THESIS
“I AM ENOUGH”
A phrase that needs to be
said more often. Self-love
begins the moment you
start forgiving your f laws
and accepting that you are
perfectly imperfect
With the many triggers that can feed into the

possibility of falling into body dysmorphia, it is
vital that you find your own safe space during this
isolation. Each journey of body dysmorphia is deeply
personal and I, for one, found myself on top of it
because of the people around me.
During our video calls, especially during the times
where I’m barefaced with disheveled hair, my partner
always manages to tell me how beautiful I am. At fiirst,
I thought it was all flattery. But because of the constant
reassurance, it helped push away any thoughts of hiding
my flaws. I also have nightly video calls with my friends
where each of us would share what we’ve been feeling
lately and breakdown if we needed to. There would be
tears and laughter, but before putting down the call we
would always build each other up and end with “I love
you.” I learned that exercising is also personal and that for
me, Pilates is what I enjoy best since it makes me feel the
strongest, mentally and physically.
Now, after each call I have where my reflection would
show up on the black screen, instead of greeting with
a frown, I smile. And as I walk around the house, the
funhouse mirrors start to reveal what’s real. Yes, I may still
have dark marks on my face and my body isn’t the way that
I want it to be, but that’s okay. Because if people love me as I
am, then why shouldn’t I?

You r
B est Face
For ward
Achieve #TheBestU with Ultherapy®
by Merz Aesthetics®
P
By Peaches Garcia
rioritizing one’s physical and mental

health became more vital to every Filipino
in these trying times. This includes
having different versions of self-care to
simply take a breather from all that’s happening.
Some have entered the world of gardening, while
others revamped their lifestyle by adding some
workouts here and there. To be able to face a
new day feeling realigned and level-headed, a
person’s wellbeing is considered an essential.
Now that establishments such as beauty and
aesthetic centers are starting to open their doors
once again, more people are thinking about
investing in safe and effective treatments and
procedures as part of their self-care regimen. This is
to ensure that they can put their best faces forward
to get over the humps they encounter each day.
#THEBESTU
Looking and feeling your best isn’t always as easy as
it sounds. In reality, it could be challenging for most
people. However, achieving #TheBestU is no obstacle
for Ultherapy®, the innovative procedure created by
Merz Aesthetics®. With its unique Hyper-Personal
Lift, Ultherapy® is the gold standard U.S. FDA-
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procedure for the brows, chin, neck, and décolletage. It
uses microfused ultrasound with visualization for the
doctor to safely deliver energy only where it is needed
most. Whether you’re in your 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, or 50’s,
there’s no need to go under the knife to stay on top of
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Because of the safe and natural-looking effects of
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showing #TheBestU.
Ultherapy® and Merz Aesthetics® are registered trademarks of
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To learn more about Ultherapy®, visit Ultherapy
Philippines on Facebook, and follow @UltherapyPH
on Instagram. References: Ulthera® Instructions for Use. April
2018. Mac Gregor, JL., et al., Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2013;32:18-
PHULTPR020920-M 25. Fabi, G., et al., J Drugs Dermatol. 2019; 18(5):426-432.

Art direction NICOLE
ALMERO. Makeup
NADYNNE ESGUERRA.
Hair ALDRIN JALANDONI.
Styling GEE JOCSON.
Model AMANDA ZAMORA
(MERCATOR TALENT
AGENCY) and ELLE
LUBAG (MERCATOR
TALENT AGENCY).
M ATCH
M A SK &
A beauty look that not only
makes a statement but also
protects. Create the perfect
pair by coordinating the
eyes to the mask
By MIA CASTRO.
Photography RXANDY CAPINPIN
CRIMSON ROSE—A monochrome look never fails. Turn
heads by exhibiting the perfect fiery eye look by mixing hues of
red and combining different textures from matte to glossy
Premium top-stitched neoprene mask by JOHN HERRERA

and corset top by JANNINA SANTOS
MIDNIGHT BLUES —No wonder why classic blue is the

color of the year. Its calm nature can make anyone look cool
and collected. Create a feline shape and elevate the rich color
by adding an eye gloss for high impact
Tie-dye mask & bucket hat from MACRO BY RXANDY and

stripe finned jacket by JANN BUNGCARAS
D OW N –TO –
EARTH
A one-stop shop to a neutral
brown is sometimes all that
is needed. Exaggerate the eye
shape by blending the color
up to the brow bone
Silong silk scarf & mask by

JOB DACON x NICOLE
ASENSIO, and brown corset
top with organza puff sleeves
by JANNINA SANTOS
KEEP ME
P O ST E D
Faded sunset eyes featuring
a soft blend of beige and
corals. A warm look with a
personalized graphic liner by
using a powder eyeliner for a
smudged and blended f inish
Postal mask by OZ GO
and white tulle dress
by ANNALINE
NORTH WINDS —An ideal icy makeup look as we enter the colder months,
iridescent silver highlight trailing from the eyes to the cheeks expresses charm and
enchantment with a bit of drama
Ivory face masks & statement headbands by HAPPY ANDRADA, shirred and beaded
organdy dress by PATRICE, ashley 2.0 pastel dress and corset by KARIZ POLINTAN
TOUCH OF GOLD—Gold metallic eyeshadow is an eye makeup staple,
giving a sense of effortlessness and elegance. Create a fusion by using cool and
warm undertones of gold to give it more depth
Solihiya masks by ORIAS ESSENTIALS, nude tulle jumpsuit by

ANNALINE, and white bateau puff sleeves gown by JANNINA SANTOS
PA ST E L FA N TA SY
Let imagination takeover
with playful pastels. Painted
richly pigmented hues on the
lids makes for a vibrant
watercolor daydream
Sarimanok printed masks by

BASIL MALICSI, blue baby
doll dress with petticoat by BEA
ARAZA, and crocheted dress
by DARLENNE RIVERA
B E AU T Y F E AT U R E
Fast
For ward You may have come to terms with your roots showing or your
lipstick collection gathering dust, but we have good news:
it’s not going to stay that way.
By MIA CASTRO, ALINEA HERNANDEZ, and
TRINA EPILEPSIA BOUTAIN
T
here was a time when the beauty know what happened after—jobs were lost,
industry seemed invincible. In businesses were shuttered and even the biggest
cosmetics, new brands were brands were brought to their knees.
popping up daily, serving even But despite it all, silver linings showed up.
the most niche beauty needs; Stuck at home, people started to buy online,
celebrities were coming into igniting the long awaited for e-commerce
the game and winning us over, boom. Skincare became a bigger priority, as
thanks to progressive and inclusive approaches; were things that catered to health and wellness.
social media kept feeding our desire to consume, We’re still a long way from bouncing back—
not just beautiful things, but to see beautiful we’re not even sure if we’re headed in right
things being made, reviewed, and fawned over; direction or if we’ve seen the worst of things
skincare and aesthetic innovations were moving already; but the year has given the best and the
at warp speed, to a point where the question brightest much to think about, learn from and
was no longer if you had any work done, but get creative on.
why haven’t you yet. Like any growing industry, MEGA has gathered top executives,
beauty had its shortcomings and issues, but as opinion leaders and creatives and asked them to
a whole it seemed like the industry was going get real about the essentials, share the insights
from strength to strength. It was no mystery they made and the changes they’ve set in place.
why—everything just looked better with a We dared them to reassess the reasons why we
dusting of highlighter. do what we do, whether we should continue
Then the pandemic happened. In the to do it and whether anyone is wearing red
Philippines, the change started slow, then lipstick beneath their mask.
accelerated to an alarming pace. We all You can bet that we are.

Dr. Vick i B elo
FO U N D ER, C EO, A N D M ED I CA L
D I R ECTO R, B ELO M ED I CA L G R O U P
“P eople
gave
asked about the biggest business
over
profit” was the
simple answer
that Dr. Belo
when
learning she got from the pandemic.

This guided the company’s key
decisions during the quarantine:
says Dr. Belo, citing a Kantar survey
that said that the first thing people
wanted to do after the ECQ was a
beauty treatment.
As a business that requires
the intimacy and warmth of touch,
Belo knows full well that she has a
huge challenge ahead of her. Yet,
thanks to her faith and her deep
the clinics were shut down early, understanding of the market, she
employees were given their full salary remains optimistic.
plus 13th month pay, and Dr. Belo “[In] this pandemic, looking
took part in a global consensus paper and feeling beautiful is part of the
that produced the guidelines for the process of self-care. For some, it’s
safe reopening of aesthetic clinics. part of their healing. Doing what I
The latter resulted in BMG being cited do is like taking care of the soul of
as the gold standard for successful another person in another way. This
clinic reopening and patient safety. is the reason we didn’t increase our
“There’s never been anything like prices despite all the money we spent
this before, so in order to survive, to COVID-proof our clinics. Belo’s
we need to adapt and we need to do mission is not first and foremost to
it well,” says Dr. Belo. On top of all make money, but to make people feel
the safety protocols, BMG provided better about themselves. As long as
their personnel with hazmat suits we are able to continue doing that,
and installed a top-of-the-line air we feel fulfilled as a company. The
purifying system in their clinics. money has always been a bonus,
“This pandemic has taken a a welcome side-effect. A business
Supr iya Si ng h
toll on everyone and I want to help must always remember its reason
people take care of themselves,” for being.” - TEB
C O U N T RY M A N AG I N G D I R ECTO R,
L’O R E A L G R O U P PH I L I PPI N ES
L’Oréal Phillippines, one of the leading beauty company globally, is

reinforcing the truth that beauty will always remain as an essential part of
every person’s wellbeing. Supriya Singh emphasizes that beauty is the
ideal form of self-expression and self-care because it is both inclusive
and personal. “Beauty in the new normal has become a retreat, a form
of self-care, and a temporary escape from the uncertainties brought by
the pandemic,” she says.
The company carries on with its commitment to bringing Filipinos
a personalized beauty experience even while staying at home. “We
anticipate what our consumers might need next, create products and
solutions that can address unique beauty needs, and make them easily
accessible for them,” Singh says. By being proactive and applying
‘Beauty Tech’ at the heart of their plans, they are able to interconnect
and create new experiences with their customers despite the situation.
They have also launched L’Oréal’s Sustainability Goals for the year 2030
with a key focus on driving bold initiatives to ignite a long-term change
to shift beauty consumption and create a sustainable environmental
impact. “A significant part of our commitments is to be able to empower
consumers to make informed choices and to engage our partners in our
transformation process,” Singh shares.
Supriya Singh imparts how beauty continues to be boundless
as it transcends through race, culture, gender, and religion even
in the most difficult times. “Beauty should only be based on the
standards you set for yourself, because beauty is about you and
what you need,” she says attesting that beauty will always be by our
side to offer us comfort and so much more. - MC

P ioneering the skin-caring makeup initiative

in the local beauty landscape, Rissa
Mananquil-Trillo leads innovation when
it comes to cosmetics. For Mananquil-
Trillo, the relevance of indulgence
through makeup has remained as more Filipinos
find empowerment in physical and emotional care,
especially now that the desire to feel better with small
and affordable indulgences has gotten amplified. The
uncertainties that we are facing right now has put the
makeup industry in a pivotal role. “This pandemic is
probably the greatest challenge of our lifetime. This is the
war of our generation,” shares Mananquil-Trillo. “There
is no playbook to guide us on the right thing to do. Not
everyone will be infected by the virus but everyone will
be affected by it.”
Apart from looking out for products with combined
beauty and protection, women are highlighting what’s
visible and focusing on their core, which is the self. With
skincare and makeup injected in its DNA, Happy Skin
has become a cult-favorite homegrown brand among R iss a
locals and international beauty gurus. From multi-use
products to face bases loaded with broad spectrum
SPF and Japanese blue light shield technology, to color
Mananqu il
adapting formulas to antibacterial ingredients, they make
sure to weigh in the needs of their consumers.
The brand’s top-notch performance in the beauty
-Tr il lo
scene has not only let it bag several beauty awards from
top fashion and beauty houses in the country, but also C O -FO U N D ER A N D C H I EF B R A N D
earn a major collaboration with Disney. - AH O F F I C ER, H A PP Y S K I N C OS M E T I CS
Dia Lacaba
M A N AG I N G D I R ECTO R,
DO DAY D R E A M PH I L I PPI N ES
Never caught without a plan, Lacaba discloses that they

Dia Lacaba is optimistic about are able to remain effective,
the future of beauty. Grounded despite the pandemic, because
with purpose in her strategy, at the heart of their business
Lacaba is employing creative is their people, “I guess it
solutions with their brands with really underlined for me the
the intention of helping Filipinos importance of taking care of our
lead their best lives. people,” she reveals. “Today
Passionate about her work, we’re a lot more confident
Lacaba has no plans in stopping that our business will remain
her pursuit of learning and exploring afloat, and the whole team
new things. From teaching an has worked very hard to make
MBA class at the University of sure of this. I get the sense
the Philippines to coming up with that because of this, people
ingenious partnership vlogs such are more committed to doing
as Alex Gonzaga’s “Crash Lande their part to keep the company
On You” for SnailWhite. growing.” - MC

G EN ER A L M A N AG ER,
S H I S EI DO PH I L I PPI N ES C O R P.
Fast and flexible aren’t usually words used a “viable share of total business.” For
to describe a large brand, which is why Yalung, the speed and trajectory of their
so many found themselves vulnerable business plans were a longtime coming
to the catastrophe that is COVID-19. Yet, and sees a “drastic change of focus” on
Shiseido Philippines was able to move at digital sales and marketing.
the speed and efficacy of a nimble start-up “Consumers are very fast in adapting
company, coming out with ingenious and to these [changes] as they are mostly digital
practical ways to keep business afloat. natives,” she says. “So, I think this is going
“These are the times wherein your to be a revolution in a way, something that
preset strategies all of a sudden became is very much needed and something that is
irrelevant because there is only one widely accepted.”
strategy that applies now—how fast can While she admits that the virus and its
you change it (your strategy) in order for effects on the industry are still ongoing, she
you to manage, cope and get by,” says has high hopes for the future.
Yalung, who oversaw many of these “Before the pandemic, beauty
creative solutions. has evolved to be more global, vast,
The company accelerated digital progressive, and highly associated with
plans for all their cosmetic brands and an individual’s sense of well-being,” she
implemented the numerous safety says. “Now, even in the middle of a crisis,
Sara Black
protocols for their brick-and-mortar consumers are…showing that they still
stores all in a matter of weeks. For all find comfort and pleasure in a ‘pampering
their efforts, e-commerce suddenly went weekend’, a spritz of perfume or a swipe
from being a “small chunk in sales” to of lipstick.” - TEB
PH OTO G R A PH ER, M ED I TAT I O N
C OAC H, A N D YO G A I N ST R U CTO R
Pure and authentic are two words that seamlessly

describe the woman Sara Black is. With the many
hats that she wears today as a successful creative,
she is gracefully helping many to nurture their well-
being by sharing her brand of integrated wellness of
body, mind and spirit.
With a click of a camera, Black established
herself in the industry with her methods of
capturing the true and raw essence of beauty.
Translating this into her other lines of work, she
teaches how beauty comes from within us.
“Beauty for me has always been the merging of
the outer and inner. The lightness of being we
seek correlates to the radiance we feel in our
soul,” she says. Black has been conducting a
meditation practice and online yoga classes that
have cultivated a community where one can join
to feel better. “We’ve all been forced to turn inward
and re-evaluate our priorities, what’s important to
us, how we interact with others,” she says.
Sara Black is the light guiding the way during
this difficult period as she teaches from a place of
authenticity and intellectual knowledge. With her
empowering positive attitude, it’s unquestionable
that the world is en route to becoming brighter
and kinder. - MC

Dr. Jen n ie
Francisco
-Diaz
FO U N D ER, S K I N 101 D ER M ATO LO GY
A N D C OS M E T I C SU RG ERY C L I N I C
trailblazer in dermatology and beauty

treatments, Dr. Jennie Francisco-
Diaz is an expert in making sure that
beauty is accessible and reasonable.
Her belief holds strong that people will
always want to have a beauty regimen
of some form, which means dermatological clinics like
Skin 101 will remain to fulfill these needs.
Diaz, who is devoted to her pursuit of new learnings,
shares that she’s taking the opportunity to discover
more about what she does best, which is the field of
dermatology. “Attending trainings, conferences, and
fellowships here and abroad has allowed me to keep
abreast with the latest trends in skincare, in the constant
pursuit for the fountain of youth,” she states.
In spite of everything, “people will always find
comfort in beauty and all things beautiful,” Diaz says.
“The beauty industry is resilient and has responded
positively during this COVID-19 crisis. People realize
that being healthy and looking good come hand in
hand, that seeing a beautiful face staring back at you
in the mirror helps uplift one’s spirits during these trying
times.” Trusting in Diaz’s philosophy, beauty remains to
be a space for creativity and security. - MC
Jan A ng
S EN I O R H A I RCA R E D I R ECTO R,
PR O CTO R & G A M B L E PH I L I PPI N ES
“Health is the foundation of beauty,” whether it’s to provide superior

shares Jan Ang. Rising above scalp cleansing after a day
the challenges, P&G has always of errands or help pamper
espoused a culture of innovation. themselves at home in the
Leading a portfolio of brands, absence of salons,” says Ang.
Ang and her team are offering Now more than ever, beauty
moments of pampering and self- is used as a creative outlet,
care by providing the solutions to whether it be trying out new
our hair care needs. hairstyles or hair colors, great hair
Finding motivation in turning can be a source of confidence
their brands to instruments of when half of our face is always
positivity, Ang is fulfilling the covered. Ang reassures that
responsibility of providing products they are there to help achieve
that deliver superior value and our beauty goals no matter the
innovation that new normal beauty situation, “Our brands will always
seekers are demanding. “We be there to support no matter
focused our energy on being what hair need, so don’t be afraid
where our consumer needs us, to explore the possibilities.” - MC

D en ice Sy
SA L ES A N D M A R K E T I N G
H E A D, E V ER B I L EN A
Denice Sy may have slowed hygiene and safety as their top

down in the midst of the priority, she sees a heightened
pandemic, but with hardwork sense of awareness in this
and innovations, there’s category. This also paved the
definitely nothing that could way to creative productions
stop her. “We had to look at with reduced workforce as
industries and categories that the majority of campaigns and
still registered demand from end sales promotions are being
consumers and trigger sales navigated online.
conversion through generous Despite witnessing a lot of
promotions online for our current people getting enveloped with
product lines,” shares Sy. fear and anxiety, Sy is optimistic
Admitting that color about the world’s recovery.
cosmetics have become less They’re continuously expanding
of an essential to some, she with new products and
worked her way through the categories. “Planting seeds,”
affected numbers and got as she would like to call their
her team back on track until investments and commitments,
everything gets back to normal. Sy is mounting a bigger market
Because everyone’s putting to work on. - AH
Ma x Col l ins
ACT R ESS, E V ER B I L EN A
A DVA N C E A M BASSA DO R
“I see the beauty industry going back to basics, with more

natural and organic beauty products, and focusing more on
skincare.” This is how Max Collins envisions the direction of
the beauty industry as a woman of power.
The EB Advance Ambassador believes in the
significance of beginning everything with a clear focus on
our self and on things that make us feel better. After all,
beauty first transpires from within. With our current at-home
setup, she sees how the beauty industry is inclining towards
skincare with natural and organic products. More than a form
of self-expression, makeup has a benign impact on one’s
mental health especially for Max.
Its essence, can come as a cure to many people who
have been feeling low during the pandemic. As a beauty
enthusiast, she lets good energy dominate her center.
Whether it’s a stimulating read, vitalizing diet or refreshing
workout, she makes sure to keep her mental health in check.
This helps her to maneuver smoothly on the things that
contribute to her self-care. - AH

R ising above in the trusted territory of

Kiehl’s Apothecary, Kaila Nicdao and
the rest of the team behind L’Oreal
wanted people to see the beauty
industry as something that boosts
morale in a crisis where anxiety levels are relatively high.
Filipinos are beginning to see beauty as a retreat, serving
as an ode to our physical, mental and emotional health.
“Beauty reinforces a truth that will always remain, which
is that it is an essential part of every person’s wellbeing
and care,” shares Nicdao.
With the pandemic on going, Nicdao sees an
uninterrupted consumership in the beauty products
in the digital space. “As part of the L’Oreal Group,
we at Kiehl’s are both responsive and proactive in
responding to the shifts in consumer behavior and
evolving trends,” says Nicdao. They put sustainability
at the core of what they do, which isn’t new to the
brand after it pioneered green packaging and
championed sustainability ambitions with the use of
100% sustainable, biodegradable, and compostable
materials. Another fundamental part of the current
beauty experience is the ability to bridge their brands to
the consumers, providing them with uncompromised
beauty experience all while putting safety first.
“After years of development and planning, we
are excited to be where we are and we are looking
K aila Nicdao
forward to inspiring all people to action with us as we
spearhead local initiative partnerships to achieve our B US I N ESS U N I T D I R ECTO R, L’O R E A L
sustainability ambitions,” says Nicdao. - AH PH I L I PPI N ES, B US I N ESS U N I T
D I R ECTO R O F T H E LU X U RY D I V I S I O N
Mar y Jane Ong

C EO, PI L I A N I
Pili Ani, the artisanal skincare expounds further that the brand
label that established the benefits had to regroup, restructure, and
brought by the local Pili tree keeps rethink their business strategy as
the passion burning by ensuring the beauty business was badly hit
that their products are at par or during the crisis.
even better than foreign brands. With plans to attend virtual
Mary Jane Ong continues to international shows and pitching
strive towards the ultimate goal to a US-based digital shopping
of making a global footprint for network, Ong and her team are
the Philippines in the worldwide gearing up to represent Filipino
skincare and beauty scape. beauty on a larger scale. “We
Rosalina Tan, her mother hope to get the support of all the
who founded Pili Ani, taught her Filipinos over the world and help
to pursue things she believed in, raise our flag. This is something
because it’s better knowing that we hope that our kababayans can
one tried. “If you know what you support and be proud of.”
are doing is right and you know By leading the journey of
that it is good, keep on doing it Filipino beauty in making its mark
even if there are a lot of obstacles in the global market, Mary Jane
and problems. Just keep on Ong serves as an inspiration to
doing it because nothing will go be ambitious and to take pride in
wrong,” she quotes her mom. Ong our heritage. - MC

R hea
A n ico che
-Tan
FO U N D ER A N D C EO, B E AU T ED ER M
Rhea Anicoche-Tan is the force planning equally in business and

behind the fast-growing skincare life. “No could have ever foreseen
brand, Beautéderm. Holding no this crisis that we are all dealing
punches, Tan is going bolder. This with, but if we strive to possess the
time, fulfilling her purpose to mentor, values of fortitude and resilience
develop, and aid in improving the coupled with the effort to master
lives of people. excellent planning skills and, of
Tan’s beauty principle centers course, the desire to cultivate a
on self-care and exuding beauty solid spiritual foundation, then we
inside and out. Tan donated would definitely have the necessary
liters of disinfecting alcohol, tools from within us to cope with
manufactured by Beautéderm, almost anything,” she says.
to front liners and raised funds “Beautéderm has entered
through an online auction of her a brand new season”, she
high fashion luxury items. discloses. Tan is continuing
With her firm belief in the to prime her brand for further
beauty of life, she also expresses expansion alongside developing
the importance of fortitude, new products that are fueled by
resilience, and the art of careful love, hardwork and reason. - MC
S ob ee
Dueñas
Choa
M A RY K AY PH I L I PPI N ES
“We’re not just selling cosmetics, we are changing lives,”

Sobee Choa tells us as she reminisced the saying of their
founder. With a notable résumé, it’s clear that Choa is a
woman who leads with a purpose.
“Your ‘why’ is essential to staying engaged,” Choa
shares. “I’ve carried that with me, but it has evolved to
a higher level. Coupled with a sense of purpose beyond
beauty, I’ve seen that beauty products are a means to help
give women a better lease on life.” This is evident in her work
at Mary Kay with the launch of their initiative called, Beauty
Behind the Mask. “It highlighted first our CSR effort to share
lip color with front liners as a ‘feel good/self-care’ appreciation
for their efforts to heal the nation. It also emphasized that we
are still ourselves; we can still be beautiful behind the mask.
Taking care of ourselves also helps us feel better no matter
how challenging the external environment,” she says.
Sobee Choa proves that supporting and enriching
people’s lives is limitless. Taking Mary Kay to greater
heights by instilling into individuals to be more confident and
connected anytime, anywhere, and in any situation. - MC

Shweta Shar ma
V I C E PR ES I D EN T, PR O CTO R & G A M B L E
PH I L I PPI N ES’ S K I N A N D PERSO N A L CA R E
B eing one with the nation is now an even

bigger imperative for Proctor & Gamble as
they provide the people with the deserved
and much-needed assistance during the
pandemic. P&G has one of the world’s
strongest line-up of trusted goods and quality brands,
and they’re using this power to provide every kind of
support they can—financial and otherwise.
Answering the call of duty of rebuilding the nation,
Sharma explains that they were able to bridge through the
communication gaps brought by the crisis. This enabled
them to employ within their company and partner with
different organizations. With trusted brands across Skin
Care, Personal Care, and Hair such as degerming brand
Safeguard, Sharma is devoted to enabling a safe Philippines
that will save lives. “We have been trusted by Filipino families
for decades, and we take pride in the pivotal role we must
play in enabling a safe reopening of the nation by driving up
hand hygiene in and outside of home,” she says.
Remaining positive amidst the hardships, Sharma
believes that together we will not let the crisis win. “Pandemic
or not, all of us possess an inherent drive to connect with and
relate to each other. I am confident this uniquely human drive
Jack ie Aveci l la will find avenues, even if those avenues must adapt to this
new normal, to share and further our humanity.”
The future is uncertain but one thing is guaranteed—
P&G is helping humanity triumph in this trying time. - MC
M A R K E T I N G A N D C O M M U N I CAT I O N S
M A N AG ER, R USTA N ’S C OS M E T I CS,
PER F U M ERY A N D TO I L E T R I ES D I V I S I O N
As one of the Philippines’ premiere and work much harder to overcome

luxury department stores, Rustan’s these obstacles.”
has always enjoyed the loyalty of its Avecilla admits that as a
clientele, a group that grows as one longstanding purveyor of luxury in
generation passes on their traditions the country, one that focuses on
to the next. An icon in local retail an exclusive and distinct personal
landscape, the company has weathered shopping experience, they’ve only
many challenges over the years, from scratched the surface of the digital
economic recessions to the influx of world. But the pandemic forced
new players; but the pandemic and the them to expedite their online plans,
months-long quarantine that ensued resulting in many firsts including the
proved to be one of the toughest they’ve debut of a virtual Rustan’s Beauty
had to handle. Unlike their counterparts Addict event.
in the US who saw their business eaten “[The] circumstances compelled
away by changing shopping habits and us to think out of the box and work
for whom the coronavirus proved to be around limitations,” she says. “I feel
a death knell, Rustan’s continues to challenged by this change and it
soldier on, relying as it has for decades, inspires our team to dream up of
on its people. other fun and engaging ideas.”
“In Rustan’s, I truly felt that Like many of her peers, Avecilla
the company’s priority was their is optimistic about the future. “People
employees—their well-being and their will always want to look confident and
financial survival,” shares Avecilla. “If beautiful, and self-care has never
you take good care of your people, been more important. And for this
they in turn will be grateful and help reason, I am certain that the beauty
you steer the business back to normal business will thrive.” - TEB

Tony Chua
PR ES I D EN T A N D C H I EF E X ECU T I V E
O F F I C ER, I FAC E I N C.
The beauty game has changed ever since iFace Inc.
brought in Melbourne-based cosmetics brand BYS to the
Philippines. BYS has offered products that encouraged
Filipinos to enjoy the power of makeup and without a
doubt, they are fighting to continue that streak of success.
Chua has an undeniable skill for building brands and
seeing through each obstacle with a unique perspective
makes him a force to be reckoned with. “I am an optimist.
So, whatever changes will happen in the business
landscape, I tend to not only embrace it, but will continue
to look for new opportunities,” he says. Chua declares that
acceptance of change is imperative to adapt to the new
pattern readily presented. He discloses that new avenues
have opened up that should be welcomed. “Another area
that should be capitalized on is e-commerce due to the
slowdown in traditional retail. This pattern may take a long
time to normalize if ever, thus, online selling is one area that
shows great potential among others.”
“Change is not only inevitable, but rather critical.
During this crisis, I look forward to identifying the
opportunities and seizing them,” Chua says. His
forward-looking and proactive attitude proves that the
beauty industry will not simply give up but rather come
out standing taller and stronger. - MC
Jorge Libanan is persevering to create a safe community, their

towards a beauty evolution. Merz Facebook and Instagram pages
Aesthetics is a global player known were able to provide a credible
for taking the industry head-on in space to inform and educate
terms of innovation. And this time Filipinos. “By creating this space,
they are including their advocacy we hope to provide a safe, trusted,
to promote for each individual’s research-based platform for those
wellness and self-care. who are interested in getting fillers
Looking beautiful and or neurotoxins done,” he expresses.
feeling beautiful is a testament “Merz Aesthetics has always been
we can all agree on, and Libanan an advocate for self-love, that’s
highlights that beauty has now why we will always highlight a
become a need and not just a combination of procedures that
want. “In a time where a sedentary enhance, not change, your features.
lifestyle can impact or alter our We aim to break the taboo of
physical appearance, we see the aesthetic procedures by promoting
importance of battling our anxiety natural-looking results.”
by managing what’s outside to take Libanan and his team are taking
care of what’s inside,” he says. the opportunity to reshape the beauty
Using their platform to break the industry into a more inclusive, safe,
stigma around aesthetic procedures and effective community. - MC
Jorge Libanan
M ER Z A EST H E T I CS

a
study
Edited by TRINA EPILEPSIA BOUTAIN. Ar t direction JANN PASCUA. Photos cour tesy of MEGA ARCHIVES. Special thanks to ALI HERNANDEZ
in
b eaut y
T he start of the decade defied all of our expectations. Sure, it
has had its lows; living in isolation, less human contact, and a
seemingly endless string of bad news among other things. You
might feel spent, and that’s okay, because we’re here to change that.
This year’s beauty awards is one for the books. As we tested and
coordinated virtually, the team was reminded why we do what we do—
beauty connects us, no matter where we are. It makes us feel better and
look damn good; It’s our salvation in isolation. So, without further ado,
here are the winners of MEGA 2020 Beauty Awards.
By MICH SANCIANCO
CONFRONT
THE FACE
Take a good
look in the
mirror and
assess your
skin’s current
condition.
Now take a
look at your
vanity; what
do you need
to fortify your
anti-aging
regimen?

AIVEE SKIN The One
Cream (price available
upon request)
AIVEE SKIN Super

C-Plus Serum (price Sk i ncare: A nti-a g i ng
available upon request) Maintain your skin’s youthful vigor
with these age-defying remedies
BIO OIL Skincare Oil
(P1100/200 ml)
CLINIQUE Even
Better Clinical Dark Spot
Corrector + interrupter
(P3750)
CLINIQUE iD
+YHTH[PJHSS`+PќLYLU[
Tone-Up Gel with Reactive
Skin Cartridge (P2,650)
DIOR Capture Totale

Super Potent Serum
(P4950/30ml)
FOREO UFO
(P16,320) BELO Glass Skin Facial
Treatment (P8000/session)
MARY KAY Sheer UV To the unfamiliar, “glass skin” is a K-beauty trend

Defense Milk SPF50/ that took the industry by storm in 2017. It’s basically
synonymous with having a dewy, even-toned,
PA+++ (P2299)
translucent complexion. If you’re not big on committing
to the full routine (read: seven or more steps) then this
treatment is made for you.
MARY KAY Hydrogel Eye After a consultation with their in-house
Patches (P2499) dermatologist, the procedure begins with a multi-step
deep cleansing wash followed by a layer of lactic acid
and glycolic acid on the T-zone. The pamper session
is completed with an ultrasound treatment using
MIRACLE WHITE
hyaluronic acid gel to help diminish the appearance
Advanced Whitening of wrinkles while also drenching skin with hydration.
Glutathione Beauty Glow It’s recommended every two to four weeks to maintain
(P1499/30 capsules) that glassy, lit-from-within glow. Book an appointment
by calling 8819-BELO (2356) or schedule online via
<belomed.com>—MS
OBVI Super Collagen
Protein (P1999)
SISLEY Sisleÿa L’Integral
Anti-Age (P22,000)
OLAY Regenerist Retinol
24 Night Serum (P1999)
SHISEIDO Vital
Perfection Uplifting
RMS Beauty and Firming Cream
Oil (P4750) (P6200/50ml)

AVEENO Dermexa
Daily Emollient Cream
200ml (P1100)
AVEENO Dermexa
Daily Emollient Body
Wash 280ml (P900)
BIO-SCIENCE Bio-
Water Micellar Water
(P899/400ml)
CETAPHIL
Moisturizing
Lotion (P890)
KIEHL’S Calendula
Deep Cleansing
Foaming Face
Wash (P1825)
KIEHL’S Herbal-
Extract Toner (P2425) Sk i ncare: S ensitive
These gentle solutions are the
answer to your sensitive skin woes
NUXE Creme Fraiche® de

Beaute 48-HR Moisturizing
Cream (P1350/30ml and
P1950/50ml)
PETER THOMAS ROTH

Water Drench Hyaluronic
Cloud Serum (P3500)
PETER THOMAS
ROTH Hyaluronic
Cloud Cream Hydrating
FRESH FORMULA Moisture Moisturizer (P3000)
Boost Series (P999)
A no-fuss, hydrating four-step SAFEGUARD Gentle

routine that reveals a more supple and Micellar Unscented
silky-smooth skin. It also works well
(P339/720ml)
for dry and textured skin
SHISEIDO Ultimune
Defense Refresh Mist
(P3450)

MARIO
BADESCU
Witch Hazel &
Rosewater Toner
(P1050)
SENKA Perfect
Sk i ncare: Cleansers Whip (P279/120g)
& E x fol iators CELETEQUE

Face washes and exfoliators that spark joy—get Acne Solutions
ready with a fresh face, and unready with clean skin Acne Cleansing
Stick (P295)
KIEHL’S Rare
Earth Deep Pore
Daily Cleanser
150ml (P1600)
KOH GEN DO
Soft Gommage
Gel (P1800)
SNAILWHITE
Glow Potion
AHA-BHA Toner
(P395/150ml)
CLEAN AS
YOU GO
Let your products
do the work for
you by choosing
the proper cleanser
and exfoliator for
your skin type

NEW HORIZONS
Discover your next HGs
(holy grails) by experimenting
^P[O KPќLYLU[ SVVRZ
SVVRZ
LUSTROUS Duo Blush
in Azalea (P799)
MAC Powder Kiss

Liquid Lipcolour in Mull
It Over (P1500)
MAYBELLINE Falsies
Lash Lift Mascara (P399)
NARS Radiant Creamy

Concealer (P1800)
RMS Luminizer (P2350)
TOM FORD Shade &

Illuminate Soft Radiance
Mak eup: New Icons Foundation SPF
50/PA ++++ (P7000)
Modern classics, future staples.
Consider these tried-and-true picks
during your next purchase TOM FORD Shade And
Illuminate Foundation SPF
45/PA +++ Soft Radiance
Cushion Compact (P5100)
BENEFIT 24-hour
Brow Setter (P1660) SISLEY Blur Expert
Luminous Matte
Perfecting Veil (P4500)
BYS Luxe Lips in Idolise
and Queen of the Night
(P399 each)
HAPPY SKIN Lip Mallow

Mousse in Honeymoon
Glow (P529)
HERMÈS Rouge Hermès

Lipstick (P2000 to P3800)
KOH GEN DO Maifanshi

Aqua Foundation (P2750)
LAURA MERCIER
Pure Canvas Power EVER BILENA Matte Liquid
Primer Supercharged Lipstick in Toast of New York (P195)
Essence (P3050)
It’s easy to see why this is a crowd favorite: the
russet shade complements most skin tones
while its texture provides a comfortable,
L’OREAL Paris
powdery matte fiinish
Infallible 24HR Matte
Cover Foundation (P550)
BENEFIT The
POREfessional:
Hydrate Primer
(P2120)
BOBBI BROWN
Vitamin Enriched
Face Base (P3750)
BLYTHE BY
CARELINE Perfect Mak eup: I nstant Fi x
Brow Trio (P265) From hydrating primers to multi-use
products, these notable standouts will
elevate your look in an instant
CARELINE Graph-
Ink Liner (P190)
SUNGLOW BY
FRESH Tinted
Sunscreen (P429)
HAPPY SKIN Happy

Skin Color Play
Multi-use Mousse in
Sun-kissed (P649)
JANE IREDALE
PurePressed® Base
Mineral Foundation
(P1850)
MAC Studio Fix

Powder Plus
Foundation (P1950)
MAYBELLINE
Superstay Matte Ink
(P299) FRESH FORMULA Fix & Finish
Face Mist in Daily Defense (P249)
RMS Lip2Cheek This dual-purpose mist sets makeup

(P2250) and keeps oiliness at bay thanks to its
blend of Witch Hazel Water, Tea Tree
Oil and Niacinamide
SALLY HANSEN
Airbrush Leg PILI ANI Loose Powder in Banana
Highlighter (P600) and Translucent (P1,245 each)
These nourishing powders do more than

SHISEIDO Synchro just setting makeup. Packed with natural
antioxidants, it also protects the skin from
Skin Self-Refreshing
pollutants and other external aggressors
Concealer (P1800)
KISS NY Magnetic
Eyeliner and
Eyelashes Kit (P999)
BEEAUTY
BEEAT
When was
thee last time
yo
ou tried
so
omething
neew? Discover
yo
our new
favvorites by
chhoosing a
neew lip color
or playing up
yo
our other
feaatures

B o d y Care
Remember: your body is a
temple and a wonderland. Take
better care of your skin with
feel-good formulas from these
washes, lotions, and oils
AVEENO Skin Relief

Lotion 354ml (P765)
and Body Wash
354ml (P545)
THE BODY SHOP

Body Yogurt British
Rose (P795)
BELO Belo Body

Scrub Glow Kit:
Radiance (P9800)
CLOSE UP All
around fresh cool
mint toothpaste
(P145/2 x 125g)
MYRA Classic
Moisturizing Vitamin
Lotion (P240/400ml)
OLAY Bodyscience
Bodywash
Brightening
(P349/500ml)
HUMAN NATURE
Odor Protect Natural
Feminine Wash OXECURE Sulfur
(P174.75/165ml) and Soap (P249/100ml)
Chamomile Cool
Natural Feminine
Wash (P149.75/165ml) NEUTROGENA
Body Oil (P809)
Your ‘Gina’s new best
friend. These plant-based,
ph-balanced feminine
NIVEA Extra White
washes provide protection
from dryness and guarantee
Firming Serum
all-day freshness SPF33 (P289/200ml)

BAYLIS & HARDING AESOP9ͻa\,H\KL
.VVKULZZ9VZL 7HYM\T7
.LYHUP\TT3)VK`
>HZO7 TS
HERMÈS;^PSS`K»
Step out of the shower smelling /LYTuZ,H\7VP]YtL
like an English country garden 7T3
with this refreshing body wash’s
7T3
blend of rose, geranium, zesty
lemon, and rich amber
7 T3
CALVIN KLEIN*2 NUXE/\PSL

,]LY`VUL7 TS 7YVKPNPL\ZL®-SVYHSL
7 TS )LH\[`+Y`6PS
7 TS 7TS
This uplifting, vegan fragrance

features organic orange oil SISLEY0aPH
layered with blue tea accord and
7TS
musky cedarwood. It smells like
skin, only fresher. Like a classic
7TS
white tee, this genderless scent 7TS
can appeal to everyone
S cents
Transport yourself outside
the corners of your home
with noteworthy scents THE BODY SHOP
,+;>OP[L4\ZR
TS7
A true classic, this velvety

fragrance embraces you
with a clean, comforting,
and musky scent. It’s
nostalgia in a bottle
KENZO7HYM\TZ
-SV^LYI`2LUaV
,H\KL7HYM\T
7TS
7TS
7 TS
Your olfactory journey

begins with the scent of
pink pepper, then incense
and f loral notes take over
before drying down to a
balmy vanilla scent. This
“old school” fragrance
smells maternal, in a good
way—like getting an
embrace from your best
friend’s cool, tiger mom
4,.(65,4,.(*64c6*;6),9
CREAM SILK Rich
Organic Powerfusion
Ultra Conditioner
Hai r Care Rich Moisture
(P150.50)
Give your hair the love it deserves with
tools and treatments that you can rely on
HEAD &
SHOULDERS
Smooth & Silky
(P239/330ml)
KÉRASTASE
Nutritive 8H Magic
Night Serum (P2950)
KÉRASTASE Bain
Anti Pelliculaire
(P1750) and Cure
Anti-Pelliculaire
(P4450)
L’ORÉAL
PROFESSIONNEL
Serioxyl Thicker
Serum 90mL (P2399)
L’ORÉAL
PROFESSIONNEL
Serie Expert Silver
Shampoo 300mL
(P720)
PANTENE Collagen
Miracle Conditioner
(P299/300ml)
AVEDA Damage Remedy
Daily Hair Repair (P1900)
PANTENE Collagen
A leave-in treatment formulated with Miracle Treatment
quinoa protein and macadamia oil to Shot (P49/piece)
visibly repair, detangle, and help protect
hair from breakage due to heat styling.
Damaged hair? We don’t know her
TRESEMMÉ Keratin
Smooth Shampoo
WETBRUSH Go Green (P250/330ml)
Detangler With Tea Tree Oil (P999) and Conditioner
(P250/330ml)
Your hairbrush, only better. The tea tree oil-
infused cushion nourishes the hair while the
cruelty-free synthetic boar bristles distribute
VS SASSOON
natural oils for hair that’s shiny and smooth.
What’s more, its eco-friendly, biodegradable
Magic Shine Curling
plant starch handle will naturally break down Iron with Swarovski
in a landfiill within 5 years (P7495)

GO
WALKABOUT
Use this time
to create
your beauty
resolutions––
and this time,
stick with it.
What habits are
you willing to
let go to take
better care of
yourself?

B est of the
D ecade
Hail, hail these game-
changers. These are the
products that have been
tried, tested, and loved
BABYLISS Pro Ionic

XL Steam Straightener
(P6830)
CREAM SILK Triple

Keratin Rescue Ultimate
Straight (P149)
DIOR Rouge Dior 999

Matte Lipstick (P2250)
ESTÉE LAUDER
Double Wear Stay-in-
Place Liquid Foundation
(P2400/30ml)
HUMAN NATURE:\UÅV^LY
ESTÉE LAUDER New Beauty Oil (P299.75)
Advanced Night Repair
Synchronized Multi- Also known as the gateway to beauty
Recovery Complex oils, this head-to-toe beauty solution is
naturally rich in vitamins A, D, and E,
(X5) (P2850/20ml)
including essential fatty acids to reveal
(P4350/30ml) healthier skin. Tip: you can also use it
(P6200/50ml) as a makeup remover or cleansing oil
LA PRAIRIE Platinum
Rare Cellular Night Elixir PILI ANI Ageless Concentrate
(Price available upon (P1250/15ml) (P2700/40ml)
request)
A skincare staple powered by youth-
preserving Pili oil concentrates and
skin-fiirming Elemi oil extracts. This
KIEHL’S Midnight
lightweight anti-aging face oil revitalizes
Recovery Serum (P2950) skin deep within, sans greasiness
LAURA MERCIER
Translucent Loose
Setting Powder (P2150)
LAURA MERCIER Tinted
Moisturizer Natural Skin
Protector SPF 30 (P2595)
MAYBELLINE Instant Age

Rewind Concealer (P399)
MYRA Ultimate
(P20/per capsule)
NARS Blush in
Orgasm (P1800)
OLAY Regenerist Whips

UV SPF 30 (P1999)
SNAIL WHITE Whipp

Soap (P295/100g)
SHISEIDO Ultimune Power

Infusing Concentrate
(P3900/30ml) (P5500/50ml)
(P6600/75ml)
ULTHERAPY® (Price available upon request)
When we think about the future of beauty and technology, we often imagine what else we could
do, what new treatments, devices, or products can cut our routines in half. Then again, we don’t
need to look any further because the future is now. Case in point: Ultherapy by MerzAesthetics.
In a nutshell, Ultherapy is the gold standard non-invasive treatment for skin-tightening and
-lifting. It goes deeper to stimulate your body’s collagen and elastin production, resulting in a natural-
looking, lifted visage without the downtime. The 90-minute procedure is designed to target the face,
from the forehead down to the neck area, and optimum results are expected after three months.
Dr. Jonathan Yu, a board-certifiied dermatologist with 22 years of clinical practice, counts
Ultherapy as one of his mainstay treatments. “There are a lot of devices that use ultrasound, but
you don’t see the layers of the skin that you’re targeting. Ultherapy is considered a gold standard
because it’s the only device that uses visualization plus ultrasound,” he says.
Like any device in the market, Ultherapy works by generating heat to help break down
LOOKOUT your skin’s collagen. “You’re only going to break it down to trigger a response, so it rebuilds
Often imitated, never duplicated. and tightens. If you put too much energy, the skin is going to die, but if you don’t put enough
When it comes to face & body energy, nothing’s going to happen. Ultherapy precisely delivers 60℃ of heat in the desired area to
treatments, always go with induce tightening, ” explains Dr. Yu.
the trusted source. When Ideal candidates of Ultherapy are individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity, usually
something too good to be true, 35- to 50-year-olds. However, it doesn’t mean Ultherapy cannot treat anybody younger or
then it probably is. “There’s also older, “it’s just that we have to manage expectations for those patients,” adds Dr. Yu. The
a lot of fake Ultherapy devices efffectivity of this treatment also lies within the hands of your doctor. MerzAesthetics’s
out there. You have to make trusted partner-doctors use the See, Plan, Treat protocol to ensure that your treatment plan
sure that the center you’re going is personalized according to your features. Here’s to the future and seeing the best you. Book
to is accredited,” says Dr. Yu your Ultherapy consultation and treatment at partner clinics (see directory).

B eaut y Store I n fo
AESOP G/F Greenbelt 5, Online via aesop.greenbelt@wwi. Manila Bay, G/F Rustan’s Department Store Shangri-La
ph; AIVEE SKIN Online via theaiveeclinic.com; AVEDA Plaza Mall, G/F Ayala Center Cebu, G/F SM Mall of Asia
G/F Greenbelt 5, Online via Zalora, Select Salons; AVEENO of Main Mall, G/F SM Aura Premier; ESTÉE LAUDER
Leading department stores, Online via Lazada, Shopee, Online via Rustan.com, Lazada; EVER BILENA Leading
Watsons; BABYLISS Rustan’s, Ansons, SM, Robinsons, supermarkets, drugstores, and department stores; Online
Landmark, Online via BeautyMNL, Lazada, Shopee, Zalora, via Watsons, Lazada, Shopee; FRESH FORMULA Online
BeautyBar, Watsons; BAYLIS & HARDING Rustan’s via Lazada, Shopee, BeautyMNL; FOREO Online via
Department Stores; BELO MEDICAL GROUP Alabang, Sephora.ph, Lazada; HAPPY SKIN Online Lazada, Shopee,
Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Bonifacio Global City, Greenbelt, BeautyMNL, Watsons, Zalora, happyskincosmetics.com;
Powerplant Mall, S Maison Conrad, Shangri-La Plaza, SM HERMÈS Boutique Greenbelt 3, Rustan’s Department
Megamall ; BELO shopbelomed.com; BENEFIT Boutique Stores; HUMAN NATURE Select malls and supermarkets;
Greenbelt 2; Online via Lazada, Zalora, BeautyMNL; Online via <humanheartnature.com/buy>; HEAD &
BIO-SCIENCE All Watson’s and SM stores nationwide, SHOULDERS Leading supermarkets, drugstores, and
Online via Watsons, Lazada, Shopee and Zalora; BLYTHE department stores; JANE IREDALE Rustan’s Department
BY CARELINE Watsons, SM Beauty, Robinsons, Stores; KENZO PARFUM Rustan’s, SM, Robinson’s,
Landmark, Online via Lazada, Shopee, pnybeauty.com; Landmark department stores; Online via Rustans.com;
BOBBI BROWN Online via Lazada, Rustans.com; THE KÉRASTASE SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM Cebu,
BODY SHOP SM Mall of Asia, The Podium, Online and NAIA 3 Local Departures; Online via <hairmnl.com>;
via thebodyshop.com.ph and Lazada; BYS Online via Salons via <shop.fiixsalon.com>, <toniandguy.storehub.
Watsons, Shopee, BeautyMNL, bys.com.ph, amorfiia. me>; KIEHL’S Online via <kiehls.com.ph>; Click &
online; CALVIN KLEIN Leading department stores, Collect method via <bit.ly/KiehlsOrderForm>; KISS NY
Online via Zalora and Calvin Klein Lazada flagship store; Online via Shopee, Lazada, Amorfiia.online; KOH GEN
CARELINE Watsons, SM Beauty, Robinsons, Landmark; DO Online via <rustan.com>, Zalora, <beautybar.com>;
Online via Lazada, Shopee, pnybeauty.com; CETAPHIL LAURA MERCIER Rustan’s Department Stores (Makati,
Leading supermarkets, drugstores, and department stores; Shangri-la, ATC, Cebu, Gateway), SM Megamall Fashion
Online via Watsons, BeautyMNL, Lazada, Zalora, Shopee; Hall Pop up; Online via <rustans.com>; LA PRAIRIE
CELETEQUE Leading supermarkets, drugstores, and Rustan’s Department Stores, Online via <rustan.com>;
department stores; Online via Celetque.com, Lazada, L’ORÉAL PARIS Leading department stores; Online via
Watsons, BeautyMNL, Shopee; CLINIQUE Online via Lazada, Zalora, Shopee, BeautyMNL, Watsons; L’ORÉAL
Rustan.com, Lazada; CREAM SILK Leading supermarkets, PROFESSIONNEL Online via HairMNL, Lazada, Shopee;
drugstores, and department stores; DIOR Dior Boutique LUSTROUS Online via <beautybeat.ph>, Watsons,
G/F SM Makati, G/F The Podium Mall, G/F Ayala Malls Lazada, <amorfiia.online>; MAC Online via <rustans.com>,
Lazada; MARIO BADESCU Rustan’s Department Stores;

Online via <rustans.com>; MARY KAY Direct selling,
Online via <marykay.com.ph>; MAYBELLINE Online
via Zalora; MYRA Leading drugstores and supermarkets;
Online via Lazada and BeautyMNL; NARS Online via
Zalora, Watsons, BeautyMNL, Lazada, Shopee; NIVEA
Leading department stores, drugstores, and supermarkets;
Online via Lazada, Shopee, BeautyMNL ; NEUTROGENA
Online via BeautyMNL, Zalora, Watsons, Lazada; NUXE
Rustan’s Department Stores, Beauty Bar, Robinsons Ermita,
Landmark,Online via Zalora, BeautyMNL, <rustans.com>,
Lazada, Shopee, Beauty Bar Online; PANTENE Leading
department stores, drugstores, and supermarkets, Online
via Lazada, PETER THOMAS ROTH Online via Lazada,
Zalora, BeautyMNL, OBVI Online via <obviphilippines.
com>, Lazada, Shopee; OLAY Leading supermarkets
and drugstores; Online via Watsons online, Shopee, and
Lazada; OXECURE Online via Lazada, Watsons, Shopee,
BeautyMNL, Zalora; PILI ANI Online via piliani.com;
RMS Online via <rustans.com>; SAFEGUARD Leading
supermarkets and drugstores; SALLY HANSEN Rustan’s,
Watsons, BeautyMNL, Zalora, Robinsons, BeautyBar;
SENKA Watsons, The SM Store Beauty Section; Online
via Watsons, Lazada, Shopee; SHISEIDO Online via
BeautyMNL, Lazada, <rustans.com>; SISLEY Online via
<rustans.com>; SNAIL WHITE Online via BeautyMNL,
Lazada, Watsons, Shopee, Zalora; SUNGLOW BY FRESH
Online via Lazada, Shopee, Watsons; TRESEMMÉ
TOM FORD BEAUTY Online via <rustans.com>;
ULTHERAPY Yu Skin Clinic, Patient First Medical Center,
3F Mercury Drug Building, Glorietta 3; Phone 028132429,
028935298; Aivee Clinics, Belo Medical Group, DR. CRB,
HOO Dermatology; VS SASSOON Rustan’s Department
Stores, Ansons, SM, Robinsons, Landmark; Online via
BeautyMNL, Lazada, Shopee, Zalora, BeautyBar, Watsons;
WET BRUSH Online via <amorfiia.online>, Watsons.
A SHION
Text JEB FRONDA. Photography MEGA ARCHIVES
10 20
M E , M Y S E L F, A N D I
ays have become longer,

but moments have been so
fleeting. Our routines have
changed leaving us no time
to adjust. This scattered
mindset coupled with a
slow move to address the
pandemic has left us not
only to fend for ourselves, but for us to face
our inner self, our hopes, and our fears while
fully embracing all these emotions that we are
feeling during this time. In this issue, we share
the validity of all these emotions. You may
feel sorrow or gratitude in these moments and
we are here to assure you that we are all here
with you. The important thing is to embrace these
emotions to find a greater understanding in yourself.
In this issue, we highlight feelings that
root not only from new routines but also of
solitude and familial relationships. There is no
one better to lead this issue than the inimitable
Solenn Heussaff Bolzico as we take a peek into
her home life as a wife and mother, all while
looking divine in this season’s best loungewear.
In Dancing On My Own, we celebrate the
joy of dressing up and looking forward to the
day when we can go out and show off our style
again. Way to Eden celebrates the abundance of
life through a medieval take on feasts with the
latest luxurious offerings of BVLGARI.
This issue is an artistic conversation we at
MEGA want to have with you. As we traverse
this new world while having our own inner
dialogues we want to let you know that you are
not alone and that were all in this together.

B eaut y
in
Lock dow n
With her new role as a mother, against the
backdrop of a pandemic, Solenn Heussaff
Bolzico redefines what it means to be beautiful
By ALYSSA LAPID. Photography JERICK SANCHEZ
Creative direction SUKI SALVADOR. Ar t direction JANN

PASCUA. Fashion direction and st yling JEB FRONDA and
LYN ALUMNO assisted by MJ ALMERO. Beaut y direction
TRINA EPILEPSIA BOUTAIN. Makeup ROBBIE PIÑERA.
Hair JOHN VALLE. Shoot coordination PATRICIA RAMOS
106
H E R E C O M ES
THE SUN
Greet the morning
with well rested,
moisturized skin. A
regular nighttime
skincare routine can
help smooth away the
fine lines and dark
circles caused by stress
and lack of sleep—
something new moms
like Solenn know
all too well
L AY M E
D OW N
Opt for silk that glides
through your skin for
maximum comfort
Silk slip dress by

SÈRI NUIT
ver Zoom, the zeitgeist of the
pandemic, Solenn Heussaff
Bolzico sits barefaced and relaxed
in what appears to be her bedroom.
Sporting a shirt with rolled up
sleeves, her loose tresses tucked
behind one ear, a virtual Solenn
attempts to define beauty.
Solenn, whose ascent to It-Girl
status was swift, whose first name
is so resonant it can stand alone, is
a sought-after actress and endorser.
Since her beginnings as an island
castaway in the Philippine leg of Survivor, Solenn’s decade-long career ROLE OF A
resulted in dozens of roles on TV, multiple iconic films, hosting gigs, LIFETIME
and countless endorsements. Her side projects are no small feat either. Solenn’s trajectory to
As the ultimate multi-hyphenate, Solenn also holds exhibits for her superstardom has always
widely-acclaimed art, launches fashion lines (she studied fashion design been upward and parallel
in France), and has published two books, among others. to her personal life.
“In showbiz, I was working every single day. Every time I had one Alongside her starry
career achievements are
day off, I was like, ‘I’m not relevant anymore.’ I’d have all these anxiety her personal highlights:
attacks,” she says. But 2020 has upended her life—not just in the way the becoming a wife, a mother—
pandemic has radically stunted all of ours—but because the Heussaff- not just to Tili, but also to
Bolzico household welcomed their first daughter Thylane Katana, or Pochola (an Akita), Negroni
Tili, on the first of January. or El Gato the cat, and
The Philippines has been under some permutation of quarantine Patato and Pechuga, two
red-foot tortoises
since March, and it’s given Solenn a lot of time to recalibrate her life.
She initially planned on taking a six-month break from work post-
labor, so lockdown wasn’t that big of an adjustment. Not that she was
spared from the chilling impact
of the coronavirus. Her dad, who
has thankfully since recovered,
contracted COVID-19 and was
hospitalized. She also hasn’t seen
her brother, Erwan, nor met his
new baby since lockdown. Despite G R OW I N G TO G E T H ER A S A FA M I LY
the dystopian undercurrent, 2020
has, at least for their household of Anyone who follows her, her husband, Nico, and their many
three, been magical. misadventures on social media, knows that Solenn is natural online.
Playful with a bit of a naughty streak, she doesn’t take herself too
seriously. By keeping it real on her account, with an unfiltered, raw
display of self and life, she hopes to “help the younger generation that
lives online maybe see a fragment of reality.”
On Instagram, Solenn leans into the image of the “wifezilla” from
her numerous eye rolls in their couple videos to her ‘anger’ over Nico’s
pranks gone awry (remember that blowdryer with the powder incident?).
Though she embodies this dominant wife trope on camera, offline, it’s
clear how grateful she is for Nico as she waxes poetic about how amazing
of a partner and dad he has been.
“Every time I see him with Thylane, my heart melts because he’s just
so in love with her,” she gushes. “There’s so much I learned about my
husband. We got closer…like how it used to be ten years ago. 2020 has
its silver lining.” (I had the pleasure of interviewing Nico three years ago
and he gushed about Solenn then too, even crediting her as his strength
when he went through a rough patch business-wise.)
Roles were recently reversed when it became Nico’s turn to support
Solenn through a difficult period. Unfortunately, Solenn faced multiple
complications during her pregnancy—and beyond. Told that her baby

T H E LO O K I N G G L A S S
A little makeup goes a long way when you’re
safely esconced at home. Look for skincare
infused products that are lightweight and
light-ref lective; they’re perfect for when you’re
puttering about the garden or enduring a
marathon of virtual meetings
White top by ELIN X KATANA and gold chain

necklace by STONE RIVER
M A M A K N OWS B EST
Wearing pieces in cotton and
natural linen makes it easier to
navigate motherhood
White top by ELIN X KATANA

“
wasn’t growing, Solenn forced herself to double her daily
calorie intake and add a lot of protein pills to her diet. “I was at
I hop e she
home eating and crying, not because I felt fat, but I just couldn’t
eat anymore,” she says, talking about how her once amazing
relationship with food (she also loves to cook) turned fraught.
At some point, Solenn’s doctor even told her that she was
likely to lose her baby six months into her pregnancy. “My
mother instincts were telling me, ‘I feel like she’s good, I feel
like she’s OK,’ why are people telling me this?” she questioned.
tal k s to me w hen
In the midst of potential heartbreak of losing “the one thing
you’ve been wanting for the last few years,” Solenn says it
strengthened her relationship with her husband. “A lot of times
she has real
I came back from the hospital just holding everything in.” Nico
didn’t want to upset her, as they were told that sadness affects
the fetus. “But then I’d be doing something and then I’d see
problems. I w il l
gu ide her and
him in the toilet, breaking down,” she shares.
Her struggles continued after labor when she faced
breastfeeding problems. “I can say I tried everything,” she says,
enumerating the many belabored steps she took to jumpstart
milk production. She’s glad it’s over and that now it’s “purely
enjoyable.” Having experienced both the pains and joys—even
the ‘ick’ of being a new mother (“It’s not all beautiful, there’s a
g ive my adv ice,
lot of gross shit that happens”), Solenn discovered a newfound
reverence for all moms—especially her own.
“I love my mom and I respect my mom, but my respect
but I want her
to feel that she
for her is like three million times more,” she says. Solenn
credits her mom for her independence, laughing while
recalling that her mom isn’t the typical “My mom is far from
a typical mother hen” and that she is “upfront.” “My mom
is so strong, unapologetic, and she really lives life like she
doesn’t need a man,” she says, visibly inspired. can decide for
B E AU T Y I N F LU X
Refreshingly candid, Solenn shares how pregnancy made

her ow n
her unable to recognize who she was in the mirror. “I tried
my first pair of jeans literally three weeks ago,” she says at
the time of writing. At some point, she says she felt like she Beauty is a complicated curre lly in the way it’s
turned into a “feeding machine.” She lives by the saying, “the peddled in the industry. “A lot of he looks. I mean,
best mom is a happy mom,” and she learned to prioritize her there’s talent, I hope,” she says, lau n show business,
health and well-being. one’s physicality is the moneyma esn’t dwell on it,
She isn’t “fussy” about beauty, in the traditional sense of but Solenn scoffs at the Filipino f equating being
the word. “Nico is more into creams than I am. I’m like a guy.” “half” or being mestiza with being beautiful. “Mukha kang
Her nighttime ritual is minimal—with only a night serum, artista” is a line she especially dislikes. “What does that even
vitamin C oil, and a night cream. Her approach to beauty is mean?” she asks.
endearing, especially when she calls sheet masks “paper facial Of course, anyone blessed with the gift of sight can see that
thingies” which, by the way, she only uses once every two Solenn is, objectively, a stunner. But what comes strongly across
months. She also hasn’t worn makeup since December, save for as beauty, even through a screen, is the way she’s enamored
the occasional shoot. with her life right now. Whether she’s talking about Belch the
Monster, her daughter’s favorite nighttime book protagonist,
or her excitement in feeding Tili new ingredients every few days
just to see her reaction, Solenn seems elated.
She also comes across as impassioned, with unwavering
U N D R ES S E D mental fortitude. We don’t credit Solenn for being an activist,
AND UNAFRAID
probably because it doesn’t seem like it. She has a way of making
Pair up seamless undergarments with
oversized shirts for an ultra-sexy look
everything, even those that require a great deal of talent, seem
effortless. But in her own matter-of-fact, peeling-back-the-
Oversized silk shirt by DRÉM LUXE curtains kind of way, she actually uses her platforms to speak
up about issues. She once shut down rape victim-blaming on
her Instagram after she shared a photo of Chantal, a character
she played on GMA’s Karelasyon, who ended up being gang-
raped in the show. She once slammed body shaming in a blog
post. “Since when did “Tumaba ka” become society’s new

BRUSH IT OFF
It’s tempting to live in a top
knot all day long, but give
your scalp a rest by wearing
your hair down. Use the time
home to give your mane the
care it needs with hair masks
and serums. To style, take
your cue from our half-French
cover star and play with
texture and volume to achieve
that effortless Gallic look
Silk slip dress by

SÈRI NUIT
WO R K
FROM HOME
Look clean and fresh
for online meetings
through tailored shirts
with loose silhouettes
Tan cropped shirt by

VANIA ROMOFF
ESSENTIALS
“Hello”?” she wrote. Even her art is activism. The project H O PE A F T ER Q UA R A N T I N E
she’s been working on for the past three years is a series on
the “devolution” of man and environmental destruction. “Oh my gosh, do not give me another ube pandesal,
Slated to exhibit last August, Solenn only postponed the please!” exclaims Solenn. Though she promises it is good,
opening because she didn’t want a virtual exhibit of a project she associates the purple treat with the pandemic. She
whose messaging is meant to be powerful. just wants to be able to travel already and show Thylane
Especially now as a new mom, her recent projects revolve the world, she says.
around the issues surrounding motherhood. Whether she’s She’s been taking care of both her physical and mental
helping demystify the stigma around breastfeeding through health during the pandemic. She used to listen exclusively
her new maternity line with label Elin, or busting pregnancy to music on her morning walks (she walks six kilometers
myths in a video with her husband, she drives the maternity daily), but has since shifted to The Mindset Mentor
conversation forward. She does some underappreciated podcast by Rob Dial (who, by the way, became her friend
heavy lifting. after being tagged by Solenn on social media). Nico, in
Solenn embodies beauty in its many forms, in the turn, has been reading Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly
way beauty is ought to be defined: Beauty is health Effective People, and, at night, the couple, like best friends,
and it’s mental fortitude. It’s resilience, courage, and swaps learnings and musings.
independence. Beauty is womanhood. And motherhood. Her quarantine life hums to the beat of a fixed
Generosity and love. schedule (she has always been organized) where she shares
baby duties with Nico. After waking up at 6 A.M., while
Nico has the baby, Solenn drinks her coffee, walks, does
yoga, or works on her side projects. They swap at around
10 A.M., and she feeds Thylane and plays with her. They
reserve time in the afternoon to be together as a family
before taking shifts again until Solenn puts her baby to
bed at around 7 P.M. Only then can Solenn relax, with a
glass of negroni or red wine.
With her new role, Solenn admits it’s easy to lose
one’s self. “Thylane is my life. Even Nico is forgotten
sometimes,” she says. But she works hard to maintain
her other identities: wife, sister, daughter, artist, painter,
woman. Balance is a concept she throws around a lot—
one she applies to Thylane’s nutrition (no sweets, she is
adamant), in her sleep, and in her approach to posting
about Thylane on social media.
When she started posting about Thylane, Solenn read
some horrible comments. “One was, ‘Why are they hiding
her face? Feeling nila. Ano ‘yan, reyna?’ And then when
I finally posted her face, A‘ y, bakit nagtatago, ‘di naman
maganda.’ As a mom you’re so protective. How can people
be so rude? It’s an innocent little thing that hasn’t done
anything to the world,” she asks, frustrated. But since
Thylane already amassed a slew of endorsements, visibility
on social media is now a necessity. Solenn just takes great
care in what she posts when it comes to her baby.
“I don’t really know what I’m doing, to be honest,” she
admits. She just learns as she goes and says mother instincts
just kick in. Either way, she’s relishing every moment with
her daughter. “I’ve been with her since day one,” she says.
Though she respects that not all women dream of becoming
mothers, she gushes, “It’s amazing. It’s the best. I wish for
everyone to be a mom.”
As to the kind of mom she hopes to be, Solenn is quick
to point out she wants to be the cool mom but not, she
clarifies, like Regina George’s mom in blockbuster Mean
Girls. “I hope she talks to me when she has real problems. I
will guide her and give my advice, but I want her to feel that
she can decide for her own,” she says. “The rest she can do
what she wants, love who she wants. That’s her choice.”

W H AT A J OY
Choose pastel printed pieces for an
instant pick-me-up when staying at
home gets monotonous
Nude top and shorts by PATTON

STUDIO and Gumamela-printed
silk full length robe by SÈRI NUIT
F I R ST B I T E
B.zero 1 hoop earrings, Bvlgari
Bvlgari ring with pave diamonds,
Bvlgari Bvlgari bracelets, B.zero
1 four band ring in black ceramic
and B.zero1 Rock ring with black
ceramic all by BVLGARI and
sheer dress by PABLO CABAHUG
Ar t direction JANN PASCUA. Makeup and Hair ARJAY ZURITA. Model VICTORIA (NEW MONARQ MANIL A)
TH E
W A Y TO
EDE N
Live in the abundance of old world beauty with
BVLGARI’s most luxurious pieces
By JEB FRONDA. Photography JERICK SANCHEZ
SWEET NECTAR
B.zero1 two band ring in white ceramic, B.zero 1 four band ring in black
ceramic, B.zero 1 Rock ring with black ceramic, Bvlgari Bvlgari ring with pave
diamonds and Bvlgari Bvlgari bracelets all by BVLGARI
F O R G E T M E N OT
Bvlgari Bvlgari earrings, necklace
and bracelet, Serpenti Tubogas
single spiral watch and all w by
BVLGARI and nude pleated
jumpsuit by ROEL ROSAL
AIM TRUE
Bvlgari Bvlgari earrings,
necklace and bracelet and
Serpenti Tubogas single spiral
watch all by BVLGARI and
nude pleated jumpsuit by
ROEL ROSAL
TIME AND AGAIN
Bvlgari Bvlgari lady watch and Serpenti Tubogas

single spiral watch both by BVLGARI
INSIDE OUT
Outdoor activities have
been limited so people
are finding new ways of
keeping healthy through
YouTube workouts and
live Zoom coaching
Sheer embroidered skirt

(worn as top and bottom)
both by JINKIE TAN.
Photography HAROLD
JULIAN. Published on
MEGA JUNE 2019
ON
MY
OW N
Isolation has been our way of life this 2020. In an
opportunity for self reflection, we go back to MEGA’s
archives to see how we can learn from the past and
move forward into a new world
By JEB FRONDA. Photos courtesy of MEGA ARCHIVES
125
LOOK OUT—Another way to cope with isolation is to find a moment in your
week to try on clothes and discovering new ways to style them
Lime puffy-sleeved top by RAJO LAUREL. Photography by YUKIE SARTO.

Published on MEGA DECEMBER 2017
126
IN THE
S H A D OWS
This has also made us invest
in statement tops as our upper
bodies become the focus of
every digital meeting
Metallic blush suit and wide-

legged trousers both by DADA
HERNANDEZ. Photography
by RODNEY TORRES.
Published on MEGA
FEBRUARY 2020
C L E A R A S DAY
From just wearing masks,
society’s protective gear
evolved in to protective
jumpsuits and face shields
Off-shoulder ruffled sleeve

by JAZ CEREZO, white
sleevless top, and black
turtleneck both by H&M.
Photography by DOOKIE
DUCAY. Published on
MEGA DECEMBER 2015
FAR AWAY—It has given people a chance to reconnect with nature either through nostalgic travel memories
or becoming a plantita, creating a more green environment inside their homes
White tiered gown by PATTY ANG. Photography by HAROLD JULIAN. Published on MEGA MAY 2019
129
TO U C H M E N OT
Summer 2020 will forever be remembered as
the summer we spent indoors, but that doesn’t
mean you can’t wear your swimsuit to feel good
Printed bomber jacket by PULL & BEAR,

bikini set by ARAW THE LINE, accessories
by ORNATE MANILA, and shades by
PRIVE REVAUX. Photography by JERICK
SANCHEZ. Published on MEGA MAY 2019
M A S KS O N
At the end of the day,
we are forever changed
by the pandemic. It is
up to us if we become
better or worse after it
Three layered
sheer dress by
RAJO LAUREL.
Photography by
JERICK SANCHEZ.
Published on MEGA
JUNE 2016
STORE INFO
FA SHION
BERSHKA, Glorietta 2, SM
Megamall; BURBERRY, Greenbelt
4, Rustan’s Makati; FENDI, Shangri-
La Plaza Mall; GIVENCHY,
Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Greenbelt 4;
GUCCI, Greenbelt 4, Shangri-La
Plaza Mall; H&M, SM Southmall,
SM Makati, SM Mall of Asia, SM
Megamall, Uptown Mall; LOUIS
VUITTON, Greenbelt 4, Solaire
Resort and Casino; MAZEE PH, web
<instagram.com/mazeeph>; NAWA.
PH <instagram.com/nawa.ph>;
PLASTIC HONEYMOON, web
<instagram.com/plastichoneymoon>;
PRADA, Greenbelt 4, Solaire Resort
and Casino; SAINT LAURENT,
Shangri-La Plaza Mall; SOLE
ACADEMY, UPTC, Trinoma,
Bonifacio High Street; STONE
RIVER, web <instagram.com/
stoneriverph>; STRADIVARIUS,
Glorietta 2, Shangri-La Plaza Mall,
SM Aura; THE NEW MOOD,
<thenewmood.online>; TOPSHOP,
Greenbelt 3, Shangri-La Plaza Mall,
Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Power Plant
Mall; UNIQLO, SM Mall of Asia,
SM Aura, SM Makati, SM Megamall;
UNIVERS, East Tower One
Rockwell; Adora Greenbelt 5; ZARA,
Greenbelt 5, Power Plant Mall, Shangri-
La Plaza Mall, SM Megamall
DESIGNERS
ADANTE LEYESA, web
<adantecollections.com>;
DARLENNE RIVERA, web
<instagram.com/bydarlennerivera>;
ELIZ MARCELO, web
<elizmarcelo.com>; EVE THE
LABEL, web <evedesignstudios.
com>; IO SONO, web <iosono.
ph>; JUSTIN LLARENA, web
<instagram.com/tristful.spirit>;
NEIL FELIPP, web <neilfelipp.
com>; MARC RANCY, web
<instagram.com/marcrancy>; NOEL
CRISOSTOMO, web <instagram.
com/queenstreetwest>; PATTON
STUDIO, web <pattonstudio.com>;
RICA RICO, web <ricarico.ph>;
SERIE NUIT, web <instagram.com/
serienuit>; VANIA ROMOFF, web
<vaniaromoff.ph>; UNA RICCI, web
<unaricci.com>; ZACARIAS 1925,
web <instagram.com/zacarias1925>
STREET
ST Y L E T I P
Have fun and be
brave with whatever
combination. The
only requirement?
Confiidence
ST
EAK,
EST
Let your ch ic f lag
f ly by wearing the
fu l l color sp e ct r u m
By JEB FRONDA
YOUR
BEST
GL W
GLOW VITAMINS
®
OCT 2020
P250
At yo u r
service,
Ben Wintle is
stepping up
the business
of convenience
NEXT TO
NORMAL
Defy the standards of
what once was in this
redefined reality
GET TO WORK
Bridge the distance
of time and space in
self-isolation style and
hardworking skincare
EDITOR’S NOTE
EXECUTIVE
ΛƺșƺΚǓȖΡǉȅǿЙǏǓǿȠࢳࢳেΡǓƺȖেȅǹǏঀ2ΛǓǿȠȠȅƺǿǩǿȠǓȖǿƺȠǩȅǿƺǹǦǩǠǦ
I
DECISION
school and graduated top ten percent of my class, with honors
and an international baccalaureate diploma. I also got a spot at
a highly coveted American university where I double majored
in Biology and Math. I came home to the Philippines because I
wanted to give back to my country and at that time, I thought
2ΛƺșșȅǉȅȅǹঀEΡǉȅǿЙǏǓǿǉǓΛƺșșǷΡǦǩǠǦঀ2ȠǦȅȣǠǦȠ2ΛȅȣǹǏ
succeed in anything I chose to do and I also thought anything
I touched would turn into gold.
Together with some friends, we conceived a product that we
felt would be revolutionary, an LGBTQ magazine for the Filipino.
2ȠΛƺșǠǹȅșșΡॹǦƺǏǈǓƺȣȠǩǟȣǹǹΡΛȖǩȠȠǓǿǿƺȖȖƺȠǩΚǓșॹƺǿǏǦǩǠǦেȕȣƺǹǩȠΡ
photographs. Like any startup, we did everything from layout,
photography, packing, delivery, selling, and pitching to potential
advertisers. It did well on the newsstands, but the sales associates would often tell
us that when customers would ask for the magazine, they would whisper under
their breath, “Meron na bang ICON magazine?” They wanted the product, but
ΛǓȖǓƺǟȖƺǩǏȠȅȅȒǓǿǹΡƺșǷƺǈȅȣȠǩȠঀeǦǩșΛƺșȠǦǓЙȖșȠȖǓǏМƺǠঀ
ICON Λƺș ȒȣǈǹǩșǦǓǏ ȕȣƺȖȠǓȖǹΡ ǈǓǉƺȣșǓ ǾƺǿΡ ȅǟ ǾΡ ȒƺȖȠǿǓȖș ǦǓǹǏ ƺ
day job. Elated and over the moon with our success, we kept producing the
magazine. We took out loans from banks to fund the printing and production
ǟǓǓșঀ KȣȖ ǉȅǿЙǏǓǿǉǓ Λƺș șȅ ǦǩǠǦ ȠǦƺȠ ΛǓ ǏǩǏǿঢ়Ƞ ǹȅȅǷ ǩǿȠȅ ȅȣȖ ǈƺǹǹȅȅǿǩǿǠ
losses. We failed to factor in taxes, newsstands commissions, delivery fees, and
ȠǦǓǦǩǠǦǩǿȠǓȖǓșȠȖƺȠǓșȅǟȠǦǓЙǿƺǿǉǩƺǹǩǿșȠǩȠȣȠǩȅǿΛǓǉǦȅșǓȠȅȠƺǷǓȅȣȠƺǹȅƺǿ
from. After more than two years, we still didn’t have advertisers and we were
left with nothing but bad debt. We had to close the business and things took
a turn for the worst. Since I was so self assured, I placed my name on the loans
we took out and shortly, collection agencies were calling me every single day.
It was scary and felt like a nightmare that wouldn’t end. At one point, I even
thought I would serve time because I couldn’t pay for our debts.
All the money I made went to pay for
those loans and after a year, I was able to pay
ǩȠ ȅА ǉȅǾȒǹǓȠǓǹΡঀ ǟȠǓȖ ȠǦǓ Йǿƺǹ ȒƺΡǾǓǿȠॹ
I vowed never to get into business ever Three years ago, two young ladies, Kianna Dy and Majoy Baron, approached
again. The trauma was far too much. More me and asked me to their manager. These girls are anything but ordinary, they are
importantly, the product we conceived was the top volleyball athletes in the country. I laughed when they asked me and also
way ahead of its time. ȖǓǴǓǉȠǓǏȠǦǓǩǏǓƺঀeǦǓΡΛǓȖǓȒǓȖșǩșȠǓǿȠǟȅȖƺǿǓǿȠǩȖǓΡǓƺȖॹȣǿȠǩǹ2ЙǿƺǹǹΡǉƺΚǓǏঀ2ȠȅǹǏ
For ten years, I became an employee and myself, and the girls, “If we are going to do this, we have to do it right.” I wanted the
was happy receiving the pay I was getting company to be registered. I wanted to charge fairly and I wanted to make sure the
from my employer, MEGA magazine. three of us paid the right taxes on time. Together with my life partners, Richmond
I gave the same dedication and energy I and Sophie, Kianna, Majoy, and Kim Fajardo, we set up our company—a talent
did went I was trying to reach the top in management and creative agency. It has been three years and we are now a team of
high school. Fortunately, hard work paid eight people and over 30 regular partners. We have doubled our earnings YOY and
ȅА ƺǿǏ 2ঢ়ΚǓ ȖǓƺǉǦǓǏ ƺ ǠȅȅǏ șȒȅȠ ǩǿ ȠǦǓ ΛǓǉȅȣǹǏǿঢ়ȠǈǓǦƺȒȒǩǓȖঀੈ
corporate hierarchy. I’ve also become very What has changed?
ǉȅǾǟȅȖȠƺǈǹǓΛǩȠǦǾΡЙǿƺǿǉǓșॹǈȣȠșȠǩǹǹȠǦǓ Apart from being truthful with all of our business partners, I’ve made better
fear was there, and I was not about to go decisions for the company now. Decisions that include a small overhead because
ǩǿȠȅǈȣșǩǿǓșșǓΚǓȖƺǠƺǩǿঀੈ we don’t need a large space for the work that we do, only good internet. My
phobia about business has also changed and I want to thank Kianna and Majoy
ǟȅȖǈȖǩǿǠǩǿǠǈƺǉǷǾΡǉȅǿЙǏǓǿǉǓঀੈ
In the next phase of MEGA Man, expect narratives and stories of failure
and success from entrepreneurs and men who’ve taken risks. Just like MEGA,
#MEGAManHasChanged, and this time, we mean business.
@sukisalvador

UNDERCOVER
NEXT TO
NORMAL
By ANGELO RAMIREZ DE CARTAGENA
Photography JL JAVIER and PATRICIA RAMOS
or the past few months, we have grappled,

wrestled, and struggled with the concept
of what normal has become for all of us.
While many continue to look at once was, hopelessly
wishing things would just go back to how we
understood it to be, the rest have been working on
carving out the path we all would move forward in,
LET IT RAIN
redefining what it is to live with this aggressive shift
Soundtracked by the quiet of a
in our histories hovering over us for the rest of life
Saturday afternoon punctured
only by a downpour of rain, it was itself. Everything has been shaken up, undone, and
business as usual for the team and turned on its head, and now we are making better
Ben Wintle who powered through the
choices—whatever, wherever it may be.
shoot in a steady and studied pace
MEGA Man still means business and is taking
its chances, charging ahead in an approach that
is conscious and considerate. This month, we
meet Ben Wintle, the man who is a proponent of
Booky, the leading lifestyle app where you discover
restaurants and local services in the Philippines. On
a quiet Saturday afternoon, as most days are as of
late, he walks in ever so casually to the showroom
of Opulence Design Concept, a space that houses
eye-popping decorative house pieces, as well as
of furniture and kitchen innovations. Quiet and
confident, Ben Wintle got to work immediately,
getting groomed and dressed in a range of looks
that best illustrate the business casual hybrid.
Make no mistake about it, this wasn’t all a still
and serious setting. There was a heavy pour of
rain, there was music, and there was a lot of talk of
Prince, as in the artist formerly known as. Above all,
it was efficient and characteristically, cool, calm, and
collected, where we were able to get things done.
Perhaps there is no such thing as a definitive normal
from here on out, just personal affectations and
allegiances that make it work for you.
MANUAL
1 3
Photography K ARA CHUNG. St yling VAN HARRIES. Grooming SYDNE Y HELMSLE Y. Model JORGE (ELITE MANIL A). Special thanks to RYUJI SHIOMITSU
6
9
7
1 Black sheer long coat by CALVIN

KLEIN. 2 Black shell and mesh
trapper hat by NEIGHBORHOOD.
3 Black open-knitted sweater by
MAISON MARGIELA. 4 Black
trousers with mesh side stripes by
10 KTZ. 5 Sheer rain coat by RAINS.
6 Striped button-down with sheer
panel by PAUL SMITH. 7 Black mesh
triple S sneaker by BALENCIAGA.
8 Light blue sheer straight-legged
trousers by OUR LEGACY. 9 Sheer
sneaker with neon details by ACNE
STUDIOS. 10 Cream sheer backpack
by ALLY CAPELLINO

BARE IT
Black embellished mesh shir ts and trousers both by CHRIS DIA Z
ALL
Modesty aside, the emergence
of easy, light, and sinuous sheer
fabrications make for an elegant
offset to the traditional hard
edge of masculinity
ST YLE TIP
Settle into this confident By ANGELO RAMIREZ DE CARTAGENA
trend by leaning on the
allure of the classic black

MANUAL
2 3
6
5
7 10
1 Lilac tie-dye knitted beanie by

THE ELDER STATESMAN.
2 Multi-colored tie-dye button-down
by POLO RALPH LAUREN.
3 Multi-colored tie-dye
9 bucket hat by BARROW. 4
Purple tie-dye nylon jacket by
SASQUATCHFABRIX. 5 Indigo
[PL K`LZSPTÄ[[LK[YV\ZLYZI`
DSQUARED2. 6 Violet tie-dye
button-down by MSGM. 7 Moss
8 green tie-dye cargo pants by
STONE ISLAND. 8 Tie-dye high
cut sneaker by VANS. 9 White
and lilac low cut sneaker by OFF
WHITE. 10 Army green tie-dye
jacket by MCQ SWALLOW

NO TIME
Tie-dye jacket and trousers both by TIEDIE T
TO DYE
A burst of colors and spirit,
the carefree energy of the
psychedelic trend swirls from
the swinging 60s to the defiant
ST YLE TIP
wardrobe of the modern man
Already loud and proud in its
realization, it will be wise to
temper the vibrancy of tie-
dye with more neutral staples

GROOMING
BRO TIP
Be mindful of the
order that goes
into skincare.
Typically, lighter
WYVK\J[ZNVÄYZ[
before heavier
creams for better
absorption
JUST PUMP IT
A little goes a long way with
skincare. A pea-sized pump
or careful dollop is enough
[VLUZ\YLHM\SSLɈLJ[
142 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.CO

1 LANEIGE DO THE
DEEP
A wise man once said: “Moisture is the essence
of wetness. And wetness is the essence of
beauty.” If anyone understands this more it
has to be the skin, and well, Derek Zoolander.
All cult-favorite film references aside, the skin
DIVE
goes through much on the daily, which is why
it is imperative to hydrate and nourish it at any
given opportunity. Anchored on the pursuit of
water science to maintain optimal moisture
levels, Laneige quenches parched skin with a
cool, tall, and most refreshing glass of water in We’re no longer playing
the Water Bank Hydro Essence. A lightweight
and highly-concentrated formulation, the games when it comes
best-selling innovation is crafted with green
mineral water and infused with vitamin-rich to grooming. This time,
kale, watercress, and beet to deliver intense
clarity and hydration minus the sticky feeling
we’re hunting down
typically akin to emollients of this sort. Fast
absorbing like a wash of water to the skin,
profound formulations
moisture seeps quickly into a rich reservoir
beneath the skin, locking in a retention that
that work hard to give
results in a bright and dewy complexion that
is soft and supple to the touch.
you your best skin yet
2 O L AY By ANGELO RAMIREZ DE CARTAGENA
There’s a reason why retinol is all the rage

in skincare—because it works. Proven to
encourage the all important cellular turnover,
production of new blood vessels, stimulate
collage production, help curb acne, and just rest on the laurels of its high regard. Instead, it continues to
reduce fine lines and wrinkles, the vitamin A strengthen the resilience of skin and boost radiance in different
derivative most importantly targets an overall formulations, this time with the new Vital Skin-Strengthening
vibrant and youthful glow. At the heart of the Super Serum. A hyaluronic acid serum with a daptogenic complex,
latest Olay Regenerist series, the Retinol24 the development neutralizes the effects of external skin-aging
Facial Moisturizer Cream is created for the stressors for a stress-free surface. A hardworking, multi-tasking
purpose of offering an optimal amount of agent, the serum boasts of a swirl of red ginseng root, holy basil,
hero ingredient that penetrates deep into and Schisandra berry, a bold blend that guarantees a deep and
the skin’s surface with its impressive blend effective penetration of its ingredients for skin that is not only soft to
of Niacinamide + Retinol complex that the touch, but most importantly, stronger in the long run.
hydrates skin all day. Weightless and quick
to absorb, the Olay Regenerist Retinol24 4 L AU R A M E RC I E R
Facial Moisturizer glides on like butter, filling Sometimes, you have to fix what it isn’t broken. Sometimes, you
in the gaps for improvements in fine lines and have to up the ante of what is already actually great. Borne from
wrinkles, as well as improving smoothness, the already standout and longtime favorite the portfolio of products
brightness, firming, dark spots, and pores. of Laura Mercier, the Nourishing Rose Oil, from its first dedicated
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a skincare routine will make you wake up to Infusion de Rose Nourishing Rose Oil. The restorative formula is
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Tracing its origins from the preparation of an lightweight and luxurious infusion slathers quite nicely, absorbing
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enjoys a certain sense of popularity, it doesn’t on the cuticles and ends of the hair, too.

HE WILL SEE
YO U N OW
Much like Armie
Hammer in The Man
From U.N.C.L.E. the
turtleneck and leather
jacket combo is a
rocking classic
Blue leather jacket and

navy blue trousers both
by STEFANO RICCI
FEED
YOUR
FOCUS
As a CEO navigating the
business of convenience,
there is a distilled defiance,
quiet confidence, and pervading
I am disciplined. I am focused. I am healthy.” Confidently
written in a journal entry one Thursday morning last
March, these self-affirmations were much-needed
pick-me-ups for a then troubled Ben Wintle. And why
wouldn’t he need all the positive reinforcement he can muster during
that time–his wife, Iza, was about to be admitted into a hospital; his
sense of calm in Ben Wintle phone was buzzing with messages of concern from friends and family;
his company, Booky, was carefully navigating around the shifting food
that essays his method to the and beverage industry. But amid the emerging trials and tribulations
industry madness from all aspects of his life, Ben manages to achieve a state of mental
clarity all throughout.
Honestly speaking, it’s rather surprising for a man like Ben to be
By KRISTOFF SISON
Photography JL JAVIER able to keep a headspace free from the constant internal oohs and
ahhs. Being primarily solution-oriented in actions, one would expect
his thoughts and imagination to be flaring up with situationers and
Creative direction JANN
PASCUA. Art direction NICOLE what-ifs. But this notion could not be further from the truth. “My mind
ALMERO. Fashion direction and is generally relaxed and free-flowing. I think a relaxed mind is actually
styling ANGELO RAMIREZ DE a prerequisite for the best creative ideas,” explains Ben. I shouldn’t be
CARTAGENA. Grooming CATS surprised–his effortlessly dashing appeal, not to mention his suave
DEL ROSARIO. Shoot coordination tone, makes this very apparent.
PATRICIA RAMOS. Shot on location
However, in a stroke of irony, Ben’s most successful business
at OPULENCE DESIGN CONCEPT,
GREENHILLS, QUEZON CIT Y
venture was conceived from unrest. In fact, it is difficult to recall
the frustrations of locating and dining in restaurants seven years
ago, not because of the present-day limitations, but because of the
technological convenience Booky ushered in. The homegrown app
earned its spot in every Filipino’s phones as a digital sourcebook

and reservation tool at a time when knowing where to eat and what a
restaurant’s menu was had you constantly on the phone–not in your hands
but by your ear. Now, Booky comfortably sits at the upper echelon of the
food and lifestyle app industry by widening its scope to include beauty,
fitness, and other retail services.
But more than this success being a result of the fostered innovation,
dedication, and collaboration within the company, this outcome took effect by
letting Ben’s mind work for him–forming a habit that energizes positive spirits
within, founded on discipline and rigor.
A FOUNDATION OF DISCIPLINE
With a systematic approach in business, there’s no wonder Ben’s mind
operates like clockwork. That’s automaticity: the notion of acting without
thinking that has become a central driver of habits. For Ben, the best habits
begin the moment he wakes up in the morning, basking in gratitude and
realigning perspectives.
In this state of tranquility, Ben is at his best. When a great idea reveals
itself, he is not one to make hasty decisions or act on mere instinct alone.
Unsurprisingly, his approach to putting new ideas into action involves
systems and data: “I follow quite a scientific framework of validating [new
ideas] over a few steps. The first step may be to consult a domain expert
to see if it’s already been done before. The next step is to build a minimum
viable product that often can be just a sketch design, which we show to
actual users to get feedback.”
This tendency for tenacity Ben sustains in his expertise was accomplished
over a decade of immersing himself in the industry of entrepreneurship,
strengthened after experiencing lost opportunities along the way. “When I
started out in tech many years ago, I got too excited about an idea and did
less customer validation in this way, which led to me wasting a lot of time on
concepts that didn’t get traction,” Ben explains. Haste can lead to waste, and
these struggles during his early days in conducting start-ups allowed him to
begin anew, but this time, more intelligently. His game plan: if you can’t control
what you think, you can’t control what you do. Discipline begins with a mastery
of the mind, as Ben humbly discloses: “Growing a tech business requires a
combination of structured thinking and creativity, which I think I’ve cultivated
relatively well over the past ten years or so.”
THE COURAGE TO CONTINUE

It was evident that in just a handful of years after the launch Booky, Filipinos
had less candy swiping, subway surfing, and zombie jumping on their
phones, with more deals and discovery platforms residing in their app
drawers. Without a doubt, Ben has led this charge for digital innovation in
YO U ’ R E A the country’s food and beverage industry. As the adage goes, “Starve your
GOOD MAN distractions. Feed your focus.”
Sweaters have always been But in the constantly evolving technopreneurship industry, not everything
a thing, but to better play up
has been smooth-sailing. “The tech landscape by number of people starting
the charm, go for ones with
companies has certainly increased over the past ten years, but sadly, the local
playful patterns
funding environment has not kept pace,” Ben shares in a moment of release.
Angora sweater by ERDEM Support, whether physical, moral, or financial, will always be a key factor in the
x H&M, chocolate brown success of a budding business. It gives validation and reassurance that the
trousers by STEFANO idea is worthwhile. It builds a bridge of camaraderie, linking mutual aspirations.
RICCI, and black leather It lends a helping hand to those whose palms begin sweating.
lace-ups by DUNE
But despite the polarizing voices or the crossed arms, it is vital to not let
naysayers stunt your progress. You will never reach your destination if you
stop and toss a bone to every barking dog. “When you start on [a project or
business], you often won’t know the risks until you test elements of it and get
learnings... until you’ve made a start on it,” explains Ben. “I’ve always been quite
entrepreneurial in that I never really conformed well in academics and I always
had my own ideas I wanted to try. Thankfully, my upbringing made me relatively
self-confident,” he adds. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single
step, and even if your foot seems to fall on unstable ground, your desire for
success will always overcome your fear of failure.

THINKING,
A LWAYS
THINKING
Monotones in the natural
side of the spectrum is
the best way to realize
the business casual
dress code
Khaki jacket by
RAJO MAN
WHEN YOU START ON [A
JECT OR BUSINESS], YOU
EN WON’T KNOW THE RISKS
UNTIL YOU TEST ELEMENTS OF
”
IT AND GET LEARNINGS...UNTIL
YOU’VE MADE A START ON IT
SOUND MIND, SOUND BODY

Inhale–think of the things you are grateful for. Exhale–set your
goals for the day. Along with the self-affirmations opening this
story, these categories are the two other inclusions in Ben’s
daily morning journal. It’s routinary, which means he has
TA K E A WA L K been jotting down thoughts for quite some time now. But as
he explains in a self-published article, he has been dabbling
Linear patterns are an
effective way to break
into different mindfulness techniques for years now–from
the bore of the corporate a zero-phone policy upon waking up in the morning (which,
uniform tradition given the nature of his work, sounds rather counter-intuitive,
but is actually essential in keeping mental health in check), to
Patterned blazer and meditative guides that boost focus.
chocolate brown In fact, setting health aside can influence how he manages
trousers both by
his team, and in turn, affects his customers. That’s probably
STEFANO RICCI
why you’ll catch him on the court swinging his tennis racket
under the basking heat, or reinvigorating spirits by soaking
up nature through short walks or swims. This sense of self-
competition and adventure carries into the work environment,
as Ben unveils: “Most of the values at Booky [centered on]
teamwork and leadership are borrowed from high performance
sports teams. Any business is really built on its people, so
we’ve always tried to develop a culture where we champion
each other and our ideas.”

STRIVE FOR PROGRESS
Collaboration breeds innovation. Directing a platform that is rooted
in establishing partnerships entails trust–not only in the handshake
(or elbow-bump) agreements, but also in the venture about to unfold.
And with trust comes risk, but when the going gets tough, there will
always be a calm and collected Ben Wintle ready to take action.
“The new norm is still hard for anyone to define but the roles of the
[food, beverage, entertainment, and health] sectors will remain the
same. It’s the business models within these sectors that are evolving
to effectively meet the changing behaviors of customers. This is
ROUND THE
creating a lot of opportunity for entrepreneurs and the ones that can C LO C K
effectively execute will build great companies,” he explains. This is
There are many ways to dress
most evident in the latest innovation that they built, a digital ordering the part, but to make it most
and payment system for F&B businesses, which is their lead product appropriate for modesty, cool,
in response to the new reality we are redefining on the daily. Helping subdued tones will always be
their industry partners find their footing in this context, this leg up in your best bet
the digital transformation is a necessary resuscitation, and with its roll
out, Booky can definitely say, they did that. (Clockwise) Dusty blue blazer
and navy blue button-down
It’s business unusual for companies reliant on face-to-face
both by STEFANO RICCI;
operations. But for the unrelenting spirit of Ben, this is just another Denim parka trend and denim
experience to learn from–to re-evaluate directions and refocus jeans both by RANDY ORTIZ
strategies. He has done it before, and he can surely do it again. But
when the murmurs of the business start to become audible, and phone
buzzes go from minutes to mere seconds in intervals, he can lay back
for a moment, take a breather, order his go-to comfort meal from his
phone, and carefully plan his next move.

AT T H E E N D
O F T H E DAY
Casuals, when worn in
similar shades make
for an adult illusion of
being dressed up
for an occasion
Denim parka trend,

navy blue shirt, and
denim jeans all by
RANDY ORTIZ

- I remember a very sad boy a while back,
trying desperately so hard to hide it from the world.
Creative direction and styling ANGELO RAMIREZ DE CARTAGENA. Grooming ANTON PATDU. Model CALEB (NEW MONARQ)
UNKOW
OCATION:
Shot during the early onset of the

pandemic that continues to pummel
our present and threaten our future,
we chart the trajectory of distance
across Manila and Dubai, closing the
gaps of uncertainty into something
we can make most sense of
By ANGELO RAMIREZ DE CARTAGENA.
Photography AUGUSTINE PAREDES
A L L BY
M YS E L F
With the world seen
from the waist up, a
dressier update on
loungewear is the
perfect transition
- He woke up and nothing was the same. Nostalgia
from the hustle to the
aside, was this an instrospection we needed? end of work day
GO THE
D I S TA N C E
Beat the incremental
heat with bright
whites and airy
separates you can
ease your days in - Not one without hope, he was consumed by a void,
a lingering sadness inside him
OUT THERE
Trousers are a weird,
foreign concept, yes. But
every once in a while, a
fresh pair of denims is
your best bet to feel a
touch, well, normal
- The people who reach out in any way they can,

tugging your shirt—let them in.
YO U B E T T E R D O
Relaxing takes on a much more mindful
approach in self-isolation, swathe
yourself in robes and rich-toned
separates for a bit of indulgence
- Don’t be too hard on yourself, we are all just

[Y`PUN[VÄN\YL[OPUNZV\[VULKH`H[H[PTL
- Are you really looking through?
- Do you see things clearly now?
WO R K I T O U T
+VU»[Z^LH[[OLZTHSSZ[\Ɉ0UZ[LHK`V\
can make use of your work breaks with an
athletic-corporate hybrid
- There will always be a coming and going.

- Whatever the circumstance will be, we will always reach
somewhere, getting around to what the universe has in store
for us—whether we had anticipated it or not.
HOW ARE YOU?—Update your stuck-at-home mindset with pairings of

mesh and and roomy silhouettes
LAST LOOK
AND WHEN
THE NIGHT
FALLS
Photography AUGUSTINE PAREDES
Transit can be a very lonely thing, especially when

in between destinations. In the rush to get from one
point to the other, this is where the rest succumb
to their most vulnerable. An introspection often
unexpected, Dubai-based Filipino artist Augustine
Paredes dissects connections and encounters that
cuts across space and time, encompassing the
nuances of feelings unbridled. Fresh off the heels of
Conversations At The End Of The Universe, a limited
edition book of photographs and poetry, this is an
exclusive excerpt of the yet-to-be-released follow up
on prose and images aptly called, Long Night Stands
With Lonely, Lonely Boys

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OCT 2020

gives us a raw rundown

the state of the industry

Creative Director SUKI SALVADOR @sukisalvador

Managing Editor TRINA EPILEPSIA BOUTAIN

Publisher ARCHIE CARRASCO

Founding Editor @archiecarrasco

ONE MEGA GROUP INC.

SARI V. YAP (†)

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 9

There are two words you wouldn’t see in my

10 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 11

he tides have changed

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 13

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 15

1 Satin bucket hat by BERSHKA.

18 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

Navy and gray jumpsuit by

1 Gold tone necklace by BALENCIAGA.

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 21

1 Lace up leather trimmed ribbed-

22 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

Oversized blue jacket and

24 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

Eliz Marcelo is a young designer who

STAND TALL —The linen dress is quickly becoming a household

Olive green mini dress by ELIZ MARCELO THE LABEL

26 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

28 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 29

WHAT IS YOUR FASHION

st yle tal k s. CL: As Leonardo Da Vinci stated,

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 31

WHAT MAKES YOU SMILE?

WHERE IN THE WORLD WILL YOU TRAVEL

WHAT IS THE MOST DEFINING MOMENT OF

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE SECRET TO A

WHAT IS NEXT FOR CHARMAINE LAGMAN?

32 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

Photos cour tesy of MEGA ARCHIVES

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 33

ROMAN. Spec a thanks to MANNY HAL ASAN

Living in this universe is either seeing yourself as a wave

By LYN ALUMNO. Photography ANJO SUNGA

The collection is reminiscent of a journey in a glass-

38 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

40 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 41

always travel and get inspired. I would watch a lot

42 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

Text TRINA EPILEPSIA BOUTAIN. Ar t LEA VALENZUEL A

nd just like that we’re in the

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 45

46 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

To make his mark, his latest ventures include ideas

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 47

seen in every city. Grocery aisles started going empty

MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM | OCTOBER 2020 49

50 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM

9 OCTOBER 2020 | MEGA.ONEMEGA.COM