Indholdsfortegnelse for February 2023 i Tatler Philippines

TATLER PHILIPPINES This month’s cover star is Dolly de Leon, a 2023 Golden Globe nominee for Best Supporting Actress for her role in last year’s Triangle of Sadness—the first Filipino to receive the honour. We also speak to Filipino American chef Alvin Cailan, the founder of Eggslut, the food truck-turned-global fast food chain. TATLER INDONESIA Meet Mesty Ariotedjo, a paediatrician who’s making waves in the world of philanthropy in Indonesia. She is a co-founder of WeCare.id, an online platform that raises funds for medical patients in rural areas in Indonesia with limited access to health services. TATLER MALAYSIA Influencers, entrepreneurs and power couple Jane Chuck and Han Pin Ma give us a rare look behind the glamour of their fashionable lives and get real about marriage, living authentically in the…

THELMA SIOSON Founder and editor of TheDiarist.ph, a website and multi-media platform of personal essays and commentary, Thelma Sioson also helped pioneer in the Seventies the coverage of Philippine lifestyle via the Times Journal, and later Manila Chronicle and Philippine Daily Inquirer, under her byline Thelma Sioson San Juan. She’s edited books and in 2012, released i’m afraid of heights (or why I can’t social-climb). In this issue, she pays tribute to the F&B legend, Larry J Cruz (p. 136). MARK NICDAO This master photographer has captured some of the most beautiful faces in the country. Over the years, his works have earned prime spots in some of the most prestigious magazines and commercial campaigns here and abroad. He has shot several covers for Tatler through the years, including this…

Consuls, ambassadors and distinguished guests filled to the brim ballrooms A and B of The Conrad last December 17 for the 2022 Consular Ball. It was a blast of a ball. Everyone danced all night to the Replay Band, with some even barefooting. Clearly everyone was just so happy to see and be with colleagues in the diplomatic row after two years of limited socialisations. But the fun and the merriment did not distract from the order of the day, or night, which was the changing of the guards, or the deans, of the Consular Corps of the Philippines. Outgoing dean, Consul General Sergio Ortiz Luis handed over the mantle of leadership to the Spanish Consul General Javier Martin Garcia. Apart from the distinguished members of the consular corps, several…

During the pandemic, Korakrit Arunanondchai confirmed a suspicion he’d harboured for some time: he doesn’t deal well with isolation. “I can’t be alone,” the 36-year-old Thai artist admits. “In me is the inherent nature, a desire, to be and work with people.” To join a group and be a part of something is very much in, and the main motivation behind, his art. The idea of the collective is ever present in his visualisation of gatherings. Scenes in his films range from denim-clad youth walking the streets of Bangkok to half-naked figures emerging slowly from a lake, then dancing around a fire as if performing a ritual. The latter is from his film Songs for Living (2021), which was on display in Seoul in autumn 2022 at Art Sonje as…

Located in Lào Cai Province in the northwest region of Vietnam, the district-level town of Sa Pa, which is six hours away from the capital Hanoi, reminded me so much of Baguio back when green still covered most of the mountain than concrete grey. The natural backdrops couldn’t be any more picturesque, from the golden rice terraces to white-water rivers that snake through the farms and quiet rural territory. The calming sight of this piece of paradise already earned the place enough merit, but as it turned out, Sa Pa was just getting started as it rolled up its sleeves over three short days and showed me why it deserved as much appreciation as its more recognised neighbour, Ha Long Bay. At first glance, Sa Pa seemed sleepy and void…

COLOSSAL BLOOMS We know, we know: florals for spring, groundbreaking. But flower appliqué really is going to be big news this season, and the bigger, the better, as seen on Stella McCartney and Erdem. SUIT YOURSELF Classic country style gets an update for the new year in edgy yet unapologetically feminine suits and separates. Embrace your inner lady of the manor; wellies and Barbours optional. BAG IT UP Supersized totes are the gender-neutral stars of the coming season. Whether slouchy or structured, these versatile pieces will serve you through work and play. Just be sure not to overfill them; hunching over with an overweight bag is never chic. KNOT JUST FOR WORK They are no longer obligatory in an office setting, but ties are making their presence felt as elective…

In another universe, one where Yayoi Kusama is not an artist with a prolific seven-decade career and sell-out art shows around the world, the Japanese nonagenarian would have certainly been a fashion designer. Her label, Kusama Fashion Company, would sell dresses covered in her signature polka dots or, even more daringly, holes that exposed their wearer’s breasts or buttocks. And today, when cut-out clothes are less of a shock than they would have been to the average, mink-coated Bloomingdale’s customer 60 years ago, Kusama would be a fashion star. As it turned out, Kusama still became a fashion star—but her story played out differently. She debuted Kusama Fashion Company during her stint in New York in the late Sixties and her radical designs even warranted their own “Kusama corner” at…

Something about Paris sweeps you under your feet. That je ne sais quoi is effortless, understated and timeless in its sophistication, and it blankets the entire city from the grandest hallmarks to the littlest details. No wonder a place like this inspired the creative freedom for Cartier. So, in its pursuit to encapsulate such an avant-garde spirit, the French luxury house first launched the elegant Tank Française in 1996, a timepiece distinguished by its ultra-profiled lines and debonair edge. Evolving the aesthetic codes of the iconic Tank de Cartier family, the Tank Française debuted a rectangular, monobloc design that seamlessly connects the sleek metal linked bracelet with the subtly curved case in terms of both volume and material. A tribute to the architectural history of Paris as well, this perfect…

Last year marked the 60th anniversary since the first Bond film, Dr No, came out in 1962; and Omega launched two 007-inspired novelties to celebrate the occasion. Omega has been a part of the James Bond movie journey since Goldeneye in 1995, when the British spy freed himself from an armoured train by cutting through a steel plate, with the help of a laser built into his Seamaster Quartz Professional Diver 300M. The new Seamaster Diver 300M 60 Years of James Bond comes in two versions—stainless steel and gold—and the brand managed to incorporate movie magic into the timepiece through a rather elegant use of the central seconds hand and a sapphire disc. While the watch dial and bezel feature the design codes watch lovers have come to expect from…

In certain circles, travelling for food has long meant collecting Michelin stars rather than connecting with local culture. But increasingly, travellers of all backgrounds are focused on discovering dynamic dining scenes that show off native ingredients, celebrate diversity and let them experience the city like a local. The following destinations are on the radar of the most discerning diners—naturally, Tatler approves. BERLIN, GERMANY Berlin’s reputation as a hot dining destination is picking up speed faster than a techno beat at Berghain, thanks to an eclectic mix of street food, casual-cool eateries, vegan kitchens and fine dining. There’s an emphasis on ingredients sourced from local farmers and foragers, like at the innovative Lode & Stijn, helmed by chef Lode van Zuylen who “strictly rejects factory farming”; or the cult-favourite bistro Mrs…

SUBTLE SOPHISTICATION Carpets are an instant way to add character and warmth to a room. Check out the Cyrus Collection with its uniquely embossed print on non-shedding woven fibres. Its über-soft rugs feature a distinguishing design identity and volumised texture for perfect finishing touches to the contemporary living space. Available at Eurobel Rugs + Carpets VELVET SMOOTH Distinct for its softly curving back and art deco-inspired lozenge shape, the Caracole Eclipse Sofa creates a casual and inviting space for lounging, entertaining and sparking meaningful conversations. Masterfully upholstered in a plush charcoal heathered velvet, it comes with two seat cushions that follow its serpentine front and boxed kidney pillows as a contrasting accent. Available at Dexterton CONTEMPORARY CLASSIC Rendered in beautifully vivid colours, this supple armchair by Mario Bellini is the…

MANILA DOCTORS HOSPITAL Ensure a healthy body and mind with Manila Doctors Hospital (MDH)’s Recharge International Wellness Package. After an executive check-up at the MDH Wellness Hub, you and your loved ones get to enjoy a relaxing stay at partner hotels and spas like The Manila Hotel, Sofitel Philippine Plaza or The Farm at San Benito just to name a few. www.maniladoctors.com.ph HANN RESORTS Located north of the metro, Hann Casino Resort is a world-class destination where spirited entertainment meets comforting hospitality. Housed within the 11-hectare property, five-star hotels Clark Marriott and Swissôtel Clark welcome guests to well-appointed suites and amenities, wondrous scenic views and an exquisite array of dining outlets and cuisines. www.hannresorts.com CITI The Citi Prestige Card is your ultimate passport to unforgettable travel experiences. Your earned points…

INFINITY AND BEYOND Louis Vuitton has activated full-on Yayoi Kusama mode with a history-making collaboration. Ten years ago, then-creative director Marc Jacobs featured the avant-garde Japanese artist’s dots on a range of bag styles in a collection heralded as the house’s most significant collaboration with an artist since the Steven Sprouse collection in 2001. First teased at the label’s Cruise 2023 show, a second incarnation has been released, featuring all manner of Louis Vuitton products, from apparel to accessories, adorned with Kusama’s instantly recognisable motifs. Expect this to be one of the most covetable releases in recent memory. ROMAN HOMIN’ Fendi’s first home decor and lifestyle accessories collection, developed under the creative direction of Silvia Venturini Fendi, sees tableware, glassware, textiles and classic games ornamented in the Roman house’s codes…

Editor's Pick Amrita Katara Watch & Jewellery Editor of Tatler Hong Kong Louis Vuitton’s Bravery Collection is true love set in stone. The Le Multipin necklace is the collection’s statement piece, stringing together a rainbow of colourful gemstones ranging from tourmalines to citrines, aquamarines to tanzanites. A 42.42-carat lagoon blue tourmaline commands the most attention, while 100 carats of gemstones aligned in three rows add to its radiance. The magnificent diamond-encrusted gem is a stylish representation of the Louis Vuitton trunk closure mechanism. SOMETHING NEW K-pop star Rosé of BLACKPINK, Tiffany & Co’s global ambassador, together with the male talent is styled in sparkling diamond Lock bangles, which capture the inclusive spirit of Tiffany & Co’s first all-gender jewellery collection. Rosé has continued to embody the modern Tiffany & Co…

BLACK RAINBOW The 45mm Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon Polychrome is based on TAG Heuer’s celebrated Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon Nanograph, and features its signature case, bezel and strap designs. The all-black case is made of ultra-lightweight, finely brushed, black PVD grade five titanium with a fixed carbon tachymeter bezel. A special engraving on the sapphire caseback indicates the watch’s release number—one of a set of 150 limited-edition pieces. The highlight of the watch is a rainbow-hued skeleton dial that adds a splash of colour to the black beauty. A matt black alligator leather strap with a rubber lining completes the look. DIVE BUDDY The Oyster Perpetual Deepsea Challenge was inspired by the experimental watch that accompanied director James Cameron on his historic descent into the Mariana Trench in 2012. It is waterproof…

Her 2023 Golden Globe nomination made her country proud and put Filipino talent on the global map. And while she lost out on the Best Supporting Actress win to Angela Bassett’s turn in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Dolly de Leon is using all the new attention and awareness and using it for the greater good. Tatler arrived an hour and a half early for our cover shoot in December at the actor’s home in Cubao, concerned about being stuck in traffic and the potential for a diva-like fit if we held up her schedule. We need not have worried: de Leon greeted us with a warm smile, a “good morning”, and “I’m so sorry I made you wait”. The actress was dressed in a hoodie and jeans combo, contrasting the…

It’s been a challenging couple of years, but people are increasingly unafraid of seeking help, and even travelling thousands of kilometres to get it. In July 2022, Bloomberg reported that, according to InsightAce Analytic, the market for psychedelic therapeutics—substances such as LSD and magic mushrooms—could be worth US$8.31 billion by 2028, following growing interest among doctors and mental health professionals who see them as a novel treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. One form of plant medicine in particular that’s piqued people’s interest lately is ayahuasca, a psychedelic brew traditionally made from vines and leaves found in the Amazon rainforest. The use of ayahuasca in the indigenous shamanistic traditions of South America appears to date back several thousand years. The drink is typically prepared as…

Dolly de Leon’s time is now! For 30-plus years, the Golden Globe nominee for best supporting actress and our cover star has waited in the wings for this moment. She honed her craft by playing minor roles, which has paid off. Her breakout role as Abigail in Triangle of Sadness is earmarked for any actor of worth. She only emerges in one-third of the film, yet her presence defines that moment. Before she left for the US for the Golden Globes, I had dinner with Dolly and some friends. The dinner conversation was animated, including a discussion on what she would say if she won, what she would wear, etc. But we most appreciated her assertion that she was doing this for the country, for the many Filipinos who needed…

“All the artists know we don’t make our art. It comes from within us,” states artist Jana Benitez. “We have the tremendous, humbling, insane privilege of just showing up and having it come through us.” And for the past 24 years, that’s precisely what Benitez has done—dedicating her artistry to exploring the boundless infinity of the human experience. Take, for example, her recent solo exhibition, Wild Silence, at Pearl Lam Galleries Hong Kong. Happened in September to November last year, the pieces shown drew from Benitez’s multidisciplinary understanding of our inner worlds—a perspective she’s refined through studies in Buddhism, Taoism, Tantra, Christianity and contemporary psychology. A representation of our rich, latent consciousness, the collection “speaks to the subject matter of embodiment, sensation and somatic awareness that have been central to…

A wellness warrior is someone who strongly advocates for health through several practices. These may include consistently hitting the gym, engaging in outdoor activities, achieving physical goals that intensely gets the sweat out, or doing Zumba, Pilates and CrossFit while convincing people to be physically active for the benefit of not just the body but also the mind. Thus, when it comes to promoting and following a lifestyle of health and wellness, there is an abundance of choices. Marilen Elizalde, however, opts being a yoga advocate and aromatherapy enthusiast. “After I realised I was not going to have a career in dance, I switched from jazz and tap classes to aerobic classes,” says this enthusiast who once dreamt of a dance profession. “I discovered the gym and slowly began to…

She started her career in traditional dining but soon saw a greater opportunity in the Philippine F&B industry and started a delivery-only kitchen business. Today, the company of Mikee Villareal called MadEats offers five dining concepts, including Dot Coffee, and operates two ghost kitchens. The next step is to scale up MadEats across the country. What started as purely an organisation that operated in the cloud, has now diversified to opening brick-and-mortar locations. My co-founders and I have been working in F&B since we graduated college and we have always been outside fans since discovering what entrepreneurship and passion meant to us. F&B is challenging and adding a layer of tech to that, too, is even more so. What motivates us is truly pure intense passion for F&B. Food and…

“Do you know those moments when you can’t quite put your finger on what you’re feeling or on what you’d want to say or express? That’s music for me,” says DJ Mikko Santos. Since 2017, he has been playing tunes, from Eighties new wave to alternative to indie rock. It started out as a hobby, then became a life-long passion. He adds, “Music is a way for me to feel what I want to feel and share whatever it is I’m going through. It could be straight to the point or confusing, but that’s music for me. It’s like a translator of some sort.” Santos remembers hearing He’s All I Want by Angelmoon in his younger years and realising the sound deeply moved him. “I remember in grade 6, a…

My personal style is fairly boring, I have to admit,” Dries Van Noten tells Tatler over a video call from his Antwerp studio. “I’m working the whole day and nearly seven days a week on selecting colours, yarns, fabrics, shapes … the last thing I want to do in the morning is open my wardrobe and say I’m going to wear the green sweater with this and that.” The Belgian design master is wearing a navy jumper and a yellow scarf—an accessory he is almost always spotted wearing in public. “Nearly all fashion designers have their own uniform just to escape from that moment. My only thing in fact that I have changed are my scarves, which I have big piles of, and in all different colours,” Van Noten says…

POLISHED TO STUN Chopard’s white diamond choker is quickly becoming a celebrity wardrobe staple with the likes of Poppy Delevingne and Simone Ashley wearing it to A-list soirées. The necklace is made of 204.35 carats of diamonds set in 18-carat Fairmined white gold. Delevingne teamed the statement piece with two rings: one made of 6.58 carats of asscher-cut diamonds set in 18-carat Fairmined white gold while the other contained 6.54 carats of round diamonds set in 18-carat Fairmined white gold respectively, both from Chopard’s Haute Joaillerie collection. LADY IN RED Burmese rubies are becoming increasingly scarce. However, Ronald Abram has a swoon-worthy collection of the brightly coloured stones. This ring celebrates a 6.48-carat oval-shaped Burmese ruby, surrounded by oval-shaped white diamonds that form a floral design, while a white diamond-encrusted…

ARMED WITH TENACITY To commemorate the 70th anniversary of the British North Greenland Expedition, Tudor paid homage to the Ranger, a tool watch that played a vital role for members of the armed forces involved in that scientific mission in the Arctic. The watch features Manufacture Calibre MT5402, a 39mm case and a clasp with rapid adjustment system. The model rose to prominence after the expedition on account of its accuracy and reliability amid the harshest conditions on the planet. ROSE GOLD HEAVEN The New Irony Chrono by Swatch in rose gold and black is a fail-safe wardrobe staple. The black dial features three sub-dials, with the date displayed at the four o’clock mark. The quartz movement is housed in a 43mm robust case and completed with a black rubber…

It’s a pity that not that many people know of Larry J Cruz now, even as they dine in the restaurants he had founded, and which had blazed the trail in Philippine dining. It doesn’t help that today we are well-Googled but not well read. Lifestyle. Ambiance. These were the two elements that Larry introduced in the Philippine dining scene in the late Seventies and by doing so, helped redefine the way Filipinos dined. A turning point—very few people would disagree with me about Larry’s contribution to Philippine lifestyle of the Seventies onwards. Before his Café Adriatico, restaurants, in general, were mere eating places; for ambiance and style, the Filipino diners went to hotels. The newsman Larry Cruz and his father, E Aguilar Cruz—the newspaper editor, essayist, painter who became…

Hunn Wai is an industrial designer, and like all industrial designers, he specialises in creating things you can touch and manipulate: real objects in the real world. That might sound obvious, except Wai also calls himself a “metarchitect”, and he is increasingly interested in designing things that don’t really exist at all, at least not in the physical sense. It’s not just digital design, or user experience design applied to virtual environments. It’s something entirely new. “It’s all in service of digital experiences,” says the Singapore designer, who runs the studio Lanzavecchia + Wai with his Italian partner, Francesca Lanzavecchia. “If we move into this new space called Web3, metaverse, spatial Internet, suddenly a lot of things in the physical world might not need to be adhered to anymore; things…