Indholdsfortegnelse for April 2025 i Tatler Philippines

TATLER PHILIPPINES Karen Salutan-Krukover spoke to Tatler about her mission to bring independent Filipino films to the masses through her platform Eduksine. TATLER KAZAKHSTAN Opera star Aigerim Sharipbek, a graduate of the Institut für Klavierkunst Vienna, spoke to Tatler about her musical and professional journey. “I don’t consider myself an opera diva yet, but I hope to perform truly major roles soon,” she says. TATLER MALAYSIA Pearly Tan and Thinaah Muralitharan, who at Paris 2024 made history as the first Malaysian semifinalists in badminton women’s doubles in an Olympic event, are igniting hope for female players. They shared how they face challenges with a positive mindset. TATLER HONG KONG Architect and artist William Lim and designer Katerin Theys spoke about how they’ve joined forces to create Night Safari, a limited-edition…

DARREN GABRIEL LEOW Singapore-based fashion and commercial photographer Darren Gabriel Leow frequently contributes to publications such as Tatler and Forbes, and collaborates on campaigns for brands such as Resorts World Sentosa and Qeelin. He believes that a truly great photograph should transport the viewer to another world. This month, he shot cover star Deva Cassel, the 20-year-old Italian French model and actress starring in the 2025 Netflix series The Leopard (p. 116). FRANCISCO GUERRERO A natural at the art of photography, Francisco “Paco” Guerrero elevates every studio and subject he captures. He doesn’t just make do with what’s in front of him; he imbues his creativity into it. His years of study have proven vital to his achievements. He was awarded the Brooks Institute Best Photographer Year 1 in 1994…

When asked how she would like to be remembered, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Toni Loyzaga had an unexpected word: annoying. “I hope they remember me as annoying because I asked people questions when they least expected it,” she shares. “Being annoying has its benefits. It’s important to stay curious in life, developing that skill for yourself and the benefit of others. You don’t have to come to the table with the answers.” In the early 2000s, Loyzaga was invited to take over a programme at the DENR, which she turned down. But when the World Bank asked her to join a study linking poverty and disaster management, she couldn’t say no. She helped gather key government officials and non-government organisations working on such disasters as the…

COCOLIFE Life is full of uncertainty and the unexpected, even during our most relaxed moments. Cocolife believes in securing the future of every Filipino, and their LifeVest insurance plan cements this ideal. It is available in two variants: Single Pay and Limited Pay in 5-pay and 7-pay options. It strikes a fine line between savings and protection, ensuring you and your loved ones are well cared for. With a complete life insurance coverage, greater savings terms and various bonuses and loyalty rewards, Cocolife is with you for the long run. cocolife.com ASCOTT Celebrating 25 years since opening its doors to the country, Ascott Limited Philippines continues to welcome guests with open arms, amassing an impressive portfolio of 17 developments and properties. The combination of excellent service and Filipino hospitality transforms…

Ardent fans and clients of Florentine watchmaker Panerai do not merely collect robust and distinctive wristwear; they glean rich stories, immersive experiences and unique stamps. The last one is individually designed for and made available at each global boutique, with patrons eagerly collecting them in a unique, palm-sized passport. These little, personalised touches may seem superfluous for an established, sought-after watch brand. They are, however, key to engaging with customers emotionally and building that compelling sense of belonging, says former CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué. It was a privilege to interview Pontroué during his recent trip to Manila, a few weeks before the frenzy of Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025 officially started and before he announced his departure from the brand. Some days prior, he was in Bhutan with Mike Horn, a…

Just as she does on screen and on the runway, Deva Cassel exudes a quiet magnetism on set. While her brown, typically wild curls have been smoothed out and put into an updo for her Tatler cover shoot, her signature strong brows, piercing hazel eyes and sculpted pout remain unmistakable. Even her name, Deva, or “heavenly” in Sanskrit, carries an air of quiet grace, one that she wields with instinctive ease. Draped in the sculptural novelties of Cartier’s Nature Sauvage high jewellery collection, Cassel moves gracefully through the suite in Paris Marriott Champs Elysees Hotel, where a balcony offers a perfect view of the Eiffel Tower. Her presence in front of the camera is both effortless and refined, marked by a confidence shaped by her early start in modelling and,…

Before Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever, the 2025 Netflix documentary that gave us a glimpse into his extraordinary and at times controversial quest to defy ageing, Bryan Johnson was already known for venture capital work and involvement in science and tech firms. The billionaire has embarked on a personal project called Blueprint, which he says preserves and improves his body and mind. He spends about US$2 million annually on various anti-ageing treatments, including blood plasma donations, shockwave therapy, stem cell injections, hormone replacement therapy and more than 100 daily supplements. At the beginning of this year, on a visit to the southwest Chinese city of Chongqing, Johnson sat down with Tatler to share his journey—how it all began, his experience building and selling million-dollar firms and…

AMANPULO Designed by the late National Artist of the Philippines for Architecture, Francisco “Bobby” Mañosa, in his signature Filipinism philosophy, Amanpulo is a luxury resort on Pamalican Island that celebrates its natural capital. “A return-to-nature escape, the guest experience is thoughtfully designed to give guests an opportunity to immerse in nature, fostering a deep connection with the environment,” says general manager Heinrich Morio. The green sea turtles and hawksbill sea turtles, locally called pawikan, are the pride of Amanpulo’s rich marine ecosystem, along with diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the surrounding waters. Continuous monitoring of the varied species they cohabit with is taken to heart by the resort’s staff, many of whom are residents of neighbouring Manamoc island. For years, Amanpulo has actively collaborated with the local community to…

INTERTWINED In this interview, we get to know the people behind the Holistic Coalition of the Willing (Holicow), a sustainable furniture and housewares company based in Cebu. Holicow supports local artisans and champions traditional weaving practices in the Philippines. GREEN FUTURE Rising temperatures, extreme weather events and environmental degradation. Climate change remains a pressing issue for many Filipinos. In this feature, we highlight local artists who use their craft as a tool to mitigate climate change. HEALING HAVEN Tatler shines a spotlight on Lunas Collective, a volunteer-powered community dedicated to supporting women who have experienced gender-based violence. Follow us on social media @tatlerphilippines…

“Turning 40 is just [like turning] 20, but with better decisions and an earlier bedtime,” Heart Evangelista playfully remarked in an Instagram post celebrating her milestone birthday last February. The international style maven marked the occasion in her signature manner—elegant, grand and surrounded by loved ones. If this new chapter is about wisdom, it hasn’t diminished her flair for glamour. A star-studded soirée was held at Whitespace in Makati. Decked out in a black-and-white theme, the venue was filled with Heart’s trademark sophistication and eye for timelessness. Bringing her vision to life was event stylist Badang Rueda, who had also planned the celebrator’s wedding and vow-renewal ceremony with her husband, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero. White silk drapery cascaded from the ceilings, while chandeliers cast a warm glow over the room.…

Long ago, women were limited to doing handwork and housework. Today, they are given the same rights as men—women can now vote, study and lead. This significance for the women of today has not gone unnoticed to Chaye Cabal-Revilla, executive vice president and chief finance, risk and sustainability officer of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC). “Women are assertive and competent,” she speaks about all women in general, yet describing herself perfectly. According to Cabal-Revilla, building her confidence was a priority for her from the beginning, given her role as a female leader in the business world and in a male-dominated industry. “You must try to understand all the functions that work with you. That’s how you become a better leader, a better person. When you understand the business, you can…

Growing up in the remote mountains of Sultan Kudarat in Mindanao, Mark Sultan Gersava lived a life without modern conveniences. “The first time I saw an ocean, I was 23 years old,” he recalls. His childhood was shaped by long walks to school, insurgencies that displaced families and meals that sometimes consisted of just water. But rather than be cowed by hardship, he saw it as a catalyst for change. Today, as the founder and CEO of Bambuhay, he is on a mission to fight poverty, promote sustainability and create economic opportunities for marginalised communities through bamboo-based innovations. On top of being recognised as a Tatler Gen.T Leader of Tomorrow and celebrated as a changemaker driving impactful solutions for the future, Gersava was also appointed as an executive member of…

LIP REVOLUTION Dior Addict Lip Glow, which pioneered the use of a technology that reacts to the skin’s pH levels to produce a custom shade enhanced with a radiant shine, now comes in new colours with warm undertones. The new shades are formulated using 97 per cent natural origin ingredients, which promise the benefits of both skincare and makeup housed in a classy pink case reinterpreted in a couture spirit. JAZZ IT UP Diptyque’s Orphéon Eau de Parfum captures the vibrant atmosphere of a jazz club, evoking memories of lively conversations and music. Its composition features cedar, reminiscent of burnished wood, and tonka bean, which brings to mind light tobacco. Juniper berries recall gin cocktails, while jasmine evokes the perfumes worn by the club’s patrons. This fragrance blends these notes…

IN BLOOM Spring calls for florals, and Carl the Jeweller is here to ensure you shine in full bloom. These Diamond Cluster earrings aren’t your typical flowers—no two designs are ever exactly alike. Each fancy-cut diamond is carefully chosen and arranged into a stunning 7.1 total carat composition. The result is a one-of-a-kind brilliance set in dazzling 18c white gold. This piece captures the beauty of nature with an exquisite sculptural touch, making every pair as unique as the wearer. ETERNAL ELEGANCE All roads lead to Rome, as the saying goes, and for Bulgari, the Eternal City remains its greatest inspiration. But it also incorporates the exotic east when it unveiled the Bulgari Aeterna high jewellery at a gala dinner against the backdrop of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. The collection reflects…

Ten years ago, Kifu Augousti and Patrick Coard met–the sort of meeting that, in hindsight, felt almost inevitable. A mutual friend had introduced them, though neither had been particularly looking for anything. Life had placed them both at a crossroads: uncertain, but open. Kifu played it cool; Patrick was not in a hurry. He didn’t even get her number that night. Instead, he took the old-fashioned route—through a friend, a phone call and the kind of persistence that would define their relationship. “Hi. It’s Patrick Fitzgerald Coard,” he had said in that first phone call. Kifu, caught off guard, reacted with a “Who?”—before it all clicked into place. After years of romantically and creatively intertwining lives through shared projects and a design language uniquely their own, the long-awaited wedding ceremony…

The hospitality industry is fiercely competitive. But there is one battlefield on which hotels have laid down their arms: they are coming together in the name of sustainability. After all, if they don’t take swift action to combat the ever-increasing threats of climate change, there’s a chance there won’t be an industry to compete in. In October 2024, Desa Potato Head in Bali opened a 2,000 sqm waste-processing facility, the Community Waste Project, in Denpasar near the Suwung landfill—the island’s largest. While hospitality and tourism are more or less Bali’s lifeblood, they are also the biggest culprits in crimes against its environment. “When you have over 3,000 guests having a good time, generally you’re going to create waste,” says Daniel Mitchell, who has worked as Desa Potato Head’s creative director…

As we embrace what’s poised to be a scorching summer, April 2025 is an essential reminder of sustainability's crucial role in shaping our collective future. This month, we focus on eco-resorts across the country, explore whether electric vehicles (e-vehicles) are the solution to our environmental challenges, and highlight individual efforts to adopt mindful practices. The power of personal and shared action is vital, as the ripple effects of our choices can lead to meaningful changes within our communities and beyond. We are thrilled to reveal our stunning April cover featuring the breathtaking international actor, model and ‘It’ girl, Deva Cassel. Being the daughter of legendary actor Vincent Cassel and the mesmerising screen goddess Monica Bellucci, this captivating beauty shows an enchanting Italian and French heritage. Currently captivating audiences with her…

Lorenzo “Mio” Nuguid and Rika Rustia took a leap of faith and emailed the Vatican if they could be married in the Holy See. But the heavens granted their wish and on December 9, 2024, just a little over two months from the proposal, they exchanged marriage vows at the Capella del Coro of St Peter’s Basilica in ceremonies officiated by the Rustias’ close priest friend, Fr Andrew Recepcion. Comparatively a short time to prepare a wedding but when the Vatican calls, you don’t waste any time. “We both felt so blessed to be married in this holy city,” said Rustia, still a blushing bride when Tatler talked to her. They also honoured the country’s tradition of a typical Italian wedding at the reception venue, Palazzo Brancaccio. “Guests move around…

For years, Dr Vicki Belo has been hesitant to celebrate her birthday due to a painful childhood memory. She shares that her birthday marked the day she was “given away” as an adopted child. But this year, the beloved doctor to the stars decided to embrace the love around her and celebrated in grand fashion. On February 22, the Belo Medical Group organised a dazzling soirée at Kenneth Cobonpue’s newly opened Fable Café + Lounge in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. It was Dr Belo’s first-ever celebration, shared with her closest friends, family and fellow “Belo Babies” who were also born in January and February. “Those who know me are also aware that I don’t like to be greeted with a happy birthday on the same day I was ‘given away’…

In 1975, after a stint in the Peace Corps in Peru, American entrepreneur Charlie Clifford set up a business importing leather bags from South America. He named the brand after the Peruvian tumi, an ornamental knife used in ceremonies. Fifty years on, Tumi has made a name for itself as a leading brand in luxury travel, thanks in large part to its dedication to innovation and its ongoing commitment to making travel more seamless and stylish for its customers: think polycarbonate shells, the use of recycled materials, 360-degree spinning, ball-bearing wheels and water-repellent zips, to name but a few highlights. “This milestone celebrates the future while embracing what our customers have loved most about the brand for over 50 years: resilience, effortlessness, functionality and timeless beauty,” says Victor Sanz, who…

2 | ARTHUR ESPIRITU Witness the magnificent vocal power and effortless radiance of Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu in a one-night-only concert featuring the iconic pieces of Giacomo Puccini, Charles Gounod, Richard Strauss and more. Performing alongside Espiritu are the multi-awarded soprano Jade Riccio and virtuoso pianist Mariel Ilusorio against the backdrop of MiraNila’s stunning indoor aesthetics. MiraNila Heritage House & Library, Quezon City. 12 -13 | J-HOPE TOUR HOPE ON THE STAGE After making his debut as a member of BTS in 2013, Jung Ho-seok, popularly known as J-Hope, rose to prominence as the group’s rapper. In 2018, he came out with his first solo mixtape, Hope World, propelling his career further. This year, he’s doing his first-ever solo tour, bringing his electric beats and compelling lyricism worldwide, including a…

SOFT SPOT Fashion’s been in a tactile mood of late, with suede proving popular for outfits as well as accessories. No longer just a relic of the Seventies, it’s back with a polished twist—slouchy bags at Jacquemus, sharp midi skirts at Paco Rabanne and short dresses at Gucci. Earthy, textured and undeniably cool, it’s proof that some throwbacks deserve a front-row seat in the present. D IS FOR DIOR The D-Journey bag, Maria Grazia Chiuri’s latest creation for Dior, stole the spotlight at the maison's spring-summer 2025 show. Offering a masterclass in balancing style and practicality, this bag is all about sleek functionality. Whether you go with the petite option in the maison’s Oblique jacquard or a larger, smooth leather version, it seamlessly transitions from office to after-hours gatherings. THE…

INTO THE BLUE Seiko cemented its heritage in diver’s watches when it created Japan’s first-ever diver in 1965—a legacy of innovation that is upheld today by the celebrated Prospex collection. To commemorate the last six decades, the Japanese watchmaker augments the series this 2025. A new Marinemaster is crafted in titanium and powered by Calibre 8L45, which incorporates Spron, a proprietary alloy designed for durability and resilience in harsh underwater conditions. The striking wave-textured dial is inspired by shinkai, or “deep sea”, and features an elegant gradient complemented by Lumibrite hands and indices. SHEER MAGNETISM Omega has unveiled a new Seamaster Diver 300M in 42mm and bronze-gold, the brand’s one-of-a-kind and corrosion-resistant alloy of 50 per cent copper, 37.5 per cent gold, palladium and silver. As with all recent models…

TATLER BEST-IN-CLASS: RESTAURANTS The dining establishments and chefs reshaping the F&B landscape with their innovative approaches RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR INATÔ Inatô puts debates of authenticity to rest. Chef JP Cruz’s expression of Filipino food is unbound by restriction and fuelled by possibility. On the menu, you’ll find delicacies from across the globe: oysters from Washington State, Ibérico pork, Kagoshima yellowtail, the list goes on. Yet every dish is unshakeably Pinoy, proving that Filipino cuisine bears a distinct and intangible DNA. Whether you opt for their à la carte experience, the Bahala Na set menu or one of their outstanding collaborations with international talents, Inatô never fails to impress nor inspire. BEST NEW RESTAURANT IAI At this contemporary sushi kappo, chef Bruce Ricketts and Jae Pickrell welcome the hedonistic and…

Favourite food? It’s very hard to say. I love a lot of different things, but I love Japanese food. What is one thing you can eat over and over again and not get bored? Pasta. Easy, with tomato sauce and basil. What do you like to cook? I can cook a lot of stuff. I actually love cooking, and I like to come up with my own recipes. I would say maybe an Asian fusion. And I like risotto, but it doesn’t come out good every time, and it’s a very specific kind of rice, so I like trying different flavours and just blending different tastes. Go-to coffee order? It depends on my mood and the day, but I tend to always take my drinks hot even when it’s really…