Innehållsförteckning för August 2024 från Tatler Philippines

TATLER PHILIPPINES Tatler Dining’s Rising Star 2024 Don Baldosano talked about being influenced by French chefs, his stint on Junior Masterchef, and his life goal of sharing “all the different facets of Filipino food”. TATLER MALAYSIA Actress and model Alicia Amin explained why she refuses to back down when she is criticised for being outspoken, and how she is working towards helping to create change in the creative and entertainment industries. TATLER HONG KONG Foil fencer Daphne Chan is heading to the Olympics, where the city hopes she might follow in the footsteps of her idol Edgar Cheung Ka-long. It’s a lot of pressure for anyone, but the 19-year-old is refusing to let it get to her. TATLER TAIWAN Tommy Chen is the first Asian to have completed ultramarathons on…

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR In our Entertainment and Culture Issue, we are spotlighting Music. The Filipino people are recognised for their God-given musical abilities, which reflect a diverse mix of influences shaping the Philippine music landscape, ranging from indigenous sounds and OPM (Original Pilipino Music) to global trends. For the first time in our 23-year history, we are celebrating the abundance of talent and diversity among our country's musicians and artists. It is inspiring to see that we can still achieve 'new' milestones even after being here for so long. We feature Superstars Gary Valenciano, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Pops Fernandez and Martin Nievera on the cover. We pay tribute to these artists who paved the way and significantly impacted our vibrant and extraordinary music scene. While there are many artists…

Italian culture, art and people have always inspired renowned Filipino photographer Filbert Kung. This year, he brought his works to the BI.CI. Srl showroom on the prestigious Via de la Spiga in Milan, Italy. Titled Chronology of a Mind, the exhibition opened on June 20 and featured 25 selected photographs, including avant-garde works, portraits, and landscapes. “The Chronology of a Mind is my second exhibition in Milan. Along with my team, we decided to do another exhibition,” he tells Tatler. “The BI. CI. Progetti e Arredamento hosted the exhibition. We also received huge support from Italian companies like Brugola1926 and Mailboxes Italy.” Kung’s exhibition is a culmination of his 15-year career. This well-travelled artist has been inspired by Africa and the cities he visits the most, including New York, Miami,…

2-3 | DO YOU HEAR THE PEOPLE SING? Boublil and Schönberg’s Do You Hear the People Sing? is returning to Manila in a two-night fundraising concert that celebrates the legacy of the duo behind some of the biggest and most adored musicals such as Les Misérables and Miss Saigon. International theatre stars Bradley Jaden, Amy Manford, Abigail Adriano and Nigel Huckle will sing alongside equally impressive local talents, under the baton of Maestro Gerard Salonga. Newport Performing Arts Theater, Pasay City 9-11 | LA SYLPHIDE La Sylphide, one of the world’s oldest surviving ballets, follows a young farmer about to be wedded to his sweetheart. On his wedding day, he encounters a mystical fairy-like sylphide who dances for him before vanishing. Ballet Philippines offers a fresh perspective on love and…

When it comes to life’s toughest battles, the best solution is always preparation; even the strongest soldiers may not be able to surmount unexpected challenges if they are not prepared. Retired colonel Ariel Querubin has learnt this during his time in the field. A persona of courage and dedication, the Philippine Military Academy graduate is often hailed as one of the most decorated soldiers in the country. For his service, he earned the Medal of Valor, the highest military award, and many other honours. His actions in combat not only showcased his bravery and patriotism but also served as a profound source of inspiration for numerous individuals, including those at Cocolife. Now well into his retirement, Querubin maintains a picture of health. Advocating for fitness comes naturally to the 68-year-old…

A TOUCH OF WHIMSY Loewe’s creative visionary, Jonathan Anderson, skilfully manipulates architectural proportions and perspectives, giving birth to entirely new silhouettes for the much-awaited fall-winter collection. The collection dares to challenge conventional perception, and as a result, shapes are revolutionised, culminating in sculptural and whimsical pieces that authentically reflect the brand’s pioneering spirit. HERE COMES THE SUN You can’t make a statement about the never-ending summer without a statement accessory. In Bottega Veneta’s Summer Solstice collection, essentials—from beach towels and sandals to the famed Intrecciato bags—are elevated with an artful, artisanal touch. The capsule features new staples like the Kalimero Citta and Andiamo, and our favourite is a basket Clam bag in a gorgeous seagrass shade that is equally suited to downtown shopping and coastal adventures. ALL THE ANGLES The…

CARNELIAN & CABOCHON This addition to the Santos-Dumont repertoire is loyal to the original model from 1904 but comes with a colourful new twist. Available in a large model of 31.5 x 43.5mm with a thickness of 7.3mm, this iteration of the Santos-Dumont Rewind is crowned with a ruby cabochon and nestled within a platinum case. Its carnelian dial is elegantly adorned with inverted Roman numerals and graced with rhodium-finish steep apple-shaped hands. A platinum ardillon buckle complements its semi-matte brown alligator leather strap. DREAMING IN COLOUR Breitling’s Superocean Rainbow-Dial assortment is inspired by the Superocean Slow Motion watches of the 1960s and 1970s. The new collection prioritises readability and functionality with its simplified, high-contrast design elements; the standout feature is the rainbow dial, where hour markers and hands are…

Sometimes a smartphone just won’t do—you need a camera that offers you better optics, better filters, and images with greater depth and richness. And you want a camera that not just looks beautiful, but also feels great in your hand. With cameras, you are spoilt for choice. But the quality of fixed-lens point-and-shoots are so exceptional these days that we can afford to set aside our bulky DSLRs and even our L-Mount options. Plus, the size and weight of these fixed-lens shooters makes them better travel companions. Here are our top five choices. RICOH GR IIIX We’ve been fans of Ricoh’s highly identifiable and unique line of GR cameras since the GR1 was launched in 1996. The latest iteration, Ricoh GR IIIx, a minimalist, pocket-size stunner, boasts a 24.2 megapixel…

With its surrounding verdant fields, vast entertainment and amusement hubs, vibrant Korean town, and slew of exciting culinary gems, Clark has already become quite the hot spot. An integrated resort, Hann Resorts proudly houses two international hotels: Clark Marriott and Swissôtel Clark, 15 restaurants and bars, a Las Vegas-style gaming facility, and a retail strip. From a dining perspective alone, the Freeport Zone’s premier gastronomic centre boasts an impressive array of exceptional restaurants; each one cementing Hann Resort’s reputation as the Culinary Capital of Clark. What sets Hann Resorts apart from other establishments in the area is its unwavering commitment to delivering quality authentic cuisine across all its diverse gastronomic offerings—whether Asian or Western—while embracing the Philippine setting. The shared philosophy here is incorporating local flavours and ingredients as all…

Nestled amidst the world’s highest mountain ranges of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, lies the once “Forbidden Kingdom” of Mustang. Stretching towards the Tibetan plateau, the region’s wondrous landscape is characterised by barren cliffs, vast prehistoric rock formations, and dramatic boulder-strewn riverbeds, that are simultaneously beautiful and terrifying. Once part of a historically significant trade route for caravans transporting precious Himalayan salt, rice, spices, and tea through its harsh terrain, Mustang was closed off to tourists until the early 1990s. Still requiring special permits for entry, the remoteness has rendered it relatively untouched by tourists and modernity. Although technically part of Nepal, today, Mustang remains culturally Tibetan and spiritually Buddhist, with Chortens and ribbons of streaming prayer flags scattered throughout the desert environment. As the first luxury hotel in Jomsom, Shinta Mani…

Crowded colourful alleyways, noisy markets bursting with energy, the steam and smoke of street food vendors, narrow passages lined with tailors promising a new three-piece suit in under four hours, pedicabs, bicycles, and scooters zoom by in a harmonious chaos—this is what comes to mind for most people when they think of Vietnam. Although this is true of destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, the country is well on its way to becoming a leading wellness destination. While the Vietnamese are an innately industrious people, they exude a certain peaceful elegance, an inner balance that stems from their deep connection with the natural world. “Go home to nature and let nature heal you.” These wise words—a plea to reconnect with Mother Earth—were expressed by the prolific Vietnamese Zen…

In high school, the paths of Andy Teodoro and Michelle Abello crossed occassionally but never quite aligned. Michelle believes she and Andy always had an intertwined relationship. “For instance, my family are very good friends with Andy’s uncle, Tito Manuel Igual, his wife, Tita Karin and their son, Maqui. We all grew up together!” They started dating, however, only in 2022 when she was in Panama and Andy was in the San Francisco Bay Area. “He slid into my messages. He was curious about my mission trip in Panama and how I was coping with living away from my family. We talked all day, every day, and that led to our first official in-person meeting—when we both planned to visit our families in the Philippines. That was such a special…

VIVIAN QUE-AZCONA She is the eldest of eight siblings. She took the family business to greater heights, maintaining its name as a top drugstore chain in the country. The rise of Vivian Que-Azcona from an entry-level staff assistant to the president of Mercury Drug is a testament to her perseverance and skills. Under her helm, Mercury Drug established itself as a reliable brand in the healthcare industry, with over 1,000 stores nationwide. In the face of a global pandemic, Que-Azcona relentlessly worked to develop solutions, such as introducing a drive-thru service and a mobile app. She also fought against misinformation on drugs and stringent lockdowns. She had to answer the call of public duty, just as her father, Mariano Que, had done during the Second World War. In 2021, she…

LIHIM RESORTS, EL NIDO Nestled in the serene enclave of El Nido, this resort features stunning private villas, exceptional dining at Henri’s and exclusive tours. Enjoy luxurious amenities, from private butlers to a premium sports facility, and indulge in the Panari Spa’s rejuvenating treatments. With a commitment to community engagement and sustainability, Lihim Resorts promises a unique and enriching escape. www.lihim.com ASCOTT With 17 operational properties across its Ascott, Somerset, Citadines, Oakwood and Lyf brands, the company aims to expand to over 50 properties by 2028. A testament to this is the recent opening of Citadines Bacolod City, which features five unique dining outlets and a Grand Ballroom highlighting Ascott’s commitment to growth and quality. Certainly, a property to watch with its accessible location, great gastronomic finds and spectacular service.…

The House of Gucci has undergone several creative transformations throughout the decades. However, one thing remains constant: Italian craftsmanship at its finest captivates fashion enthusiasts worldwide. To understand the story of the House, one must go back to Italy in 1921 when a young Guccio Gucci opened his first boutique after returning home. While working as a luggage carrier in London’s glamorous Savoy Hotel, which was then a melting pot of society’s elite, he was inspired to bring superior, handcrafted leather products to his native Florence. Gucci’s first products included handbags and luggage, whose reputation grew due to their timeless appeal. The House continued to grow in significance into the 1930s. Traditional materials such as leather were challenging to obtain, so the Gucci brothers introduced wood and raffia into their…

The ring bracelet, previously known as a hand chain or by the rather unsavoury term slave bracelet, has deep historical roots; notably in the Mughal era, it was dubbed the hathphool or hand flower, and adorned the limbs of royal Indian brides. Cartier’s incorporation of it into their latest high jewellery collection, Nature Sauvage, marks a delightful evolution. Launched this summer, the collection dazzles with a standout Panthère Ring-Bracelet in white gold, featuring an 8.63-carat Zambian emerald suspended from the throat of a lithe panther, its coat studded with diamonds and flecks of sapphire and onyx, and with emerald eyes. HOUSE OF STONE For nearly a century, Chow Tai Fook has championed the creation of brilliant jewellery pieces. Their campaign, ‘Beyond Time’, is an ode to the diamond. Forged by…

It’s not unusual for fans in the Philippines and beyond to see these four music icons on stage together, given their extensive experience in the industry. For the first time however, Pops Fernandez, Martin Nievera, Zsa Zsa Padilla and Gary Valenciano gathered together for this Tatler cover story. It was also a first for Tatler to feature these superstars together, marking both a feat and a dream come true for our 23-year-old magazine. During the cover shoot at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, the local music legends effortlessly commanded the stage, exuding the same charisma as during their live performances. Their comfort and ease were evident as they posed for the camera, showcasing their star quality. Having entered the industry in the Eighties during the rise of OPM, these legendary…

SANDRA SORIANO The bottom line for Sandra is all about exploring heights and discovering depths. Since most days are spent hunched over her laptop frantically multitasking, nothing brings her a greater sense of adventure and profound escape from the city’s hustle, than the rugged beauty of high-altitude trekking. Ever since a truly transformative ascent to the ‘Roof of Africa,’ she has been hooked by the physical magic of mountain trails, where the total lack of cell phone service and the simplicity of a daily routine, grounds one to the present moment. In this issue, she takes you through the ‘Last Forbidden Kingdom’ of Mustang, uncovering hidden gems and cultural nuances of the lesser-known Himalayan region. STEPHANIE ZUBIRI Host, wellness advocate, podcaster, acclaimed cookbook author, as well as travel, food, and…

Much like the overview effect—an intense emotional sensation felt by astronauts when they see Earth from space for the first time—there’s something about experiencing a safari that seems to create a shift in the way people view and think about our planet and life itself. “There’s a theory on this that I’ll borrow,” says Peter Allison, an Australian author who has documented his time as one of Africa’s top safari guides in cheekily titled books such as Whatever You Do, Don’t Run: True Tales of a Botswana Safari Guide and Don’t Look Behind You: A Safari Guide’s Encounters with Ravenous Lions, Stampeding Elephants, and Lovesick Rhinos. “As humans evolved in Africa, some part of us feels at home once we are surrounded by the sounds and smells our ancestors lived with…

Hong Kong CHECK IN AT THE UPPER HOUSE Arriving at The Upper House feels like coming home—it could be because of the earthy, elegant interiors or the top-notch service, which is informal but deeply personal and attentive. Designed by architect André Fu, the spacious studios and suites feature natural materials, floor-to-ceiling windows and what we believe are the sexiest bathrooms in Hong Kong—each room features a deep soaking tub positioned to maximise mountain or city views. Over the years, The Upper House has become something of a cultural hub in Hong Kong, hosting intimate programmes and supporting local talents in the areas of art and wellness. As a result, as well as being a cult favourite hotel for travellers, it has gained a fiercely loyal fanbase among locals; you’ll often…

MARK NICDAO Through the lens of one of the country’s most sought-after photographers are many notable and alluring personalities. Also a skillful artist, it’s no surprise that he has spearheaded the covers of some leading magazines. Mark Nicdao photographs this month’s cover featuring OPM icons Pops Fernandez, Martin Nievera, Zsa Zsa Padilla and Gary Valenciano (p. 144). ANGELO COMSTI Award-winning food writer, newspaper columnist and author Angelo Comsti has been a headliner of the Philippine F&B scene through the years. When it comes to the latest news and trends in the food industry, his reportage is highly anticipated. While his expertise lies in Filipino food, he goes out of his way to explore food in the rest of the world. In this issue, he takes us on his trip to…

In a world where cinema often glosses over the intricacies of culture by prioritising commercial appeal, this filmmaker shines as a source of authenticity and depth. Renowned for his heartfelt and authentic portrayal of Filipino narratives, Zig Dulay blends local experiences spanning different regions in the Philippines, bringing Filipino culture to the forefront of global cinema. Born and raised by his farmer parents in the far-flung province of Isabela, Dulay ensures that each of his films is a journey into the heart of life, capturing its beauty, complexities, and indomitable spirit. Through his works, including the critically acclaimed series Maria Clara at Ibarra and the award-winning film Firefly, Dulay entertains, educates and inspires, ensuring that the Filipino soul resonates universally. When I first experienced cinema, I wanted to create something…

(CAT)WALK ON THE WILD SIDE Animal print is back with a vengeance. We’ve seen python boots strutting down the catwalk, leopard dresses stealing the spotlight and zebra coats making a statement. This season, whether you add a touch of ferocity with a pair of Attico boots, give your LBD a fierce upgrade or go full jungle queen with a (faux) furry Stella McCartney coat, it’s time to embrace the untamed. BACK IN THE HABIT Even years after you leave school, there’s something about August that feels like you're prepping for a new term. Relive those back-to-school vibes with a work wardrobe update that will put a spring in your step: power suits are back, and we’ve got our eye on outfits from the likes of Versace, Victoria Beckham and Courrèges.…

Last year, Richard Mille introduced its most complex movement yet with the RM 65-01 Split-Seconds Chronograph. This year, it adds a splash of colour to the model with two vibrant new versions: pastel blue and dark yellow Quartz TPT, each limited to 120 pieces. These aren’t just aesthetic updates—the colours also denote specific functions, enhancing usability and readability. Run by the calibre RMAC4 with a high frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour, it is supported by a 60-hour power reserve. Key attributes include a pusher at eight o’clock for quick winding, and a multifunctional crown for easy mode transitions between winding, date setting and time adjustments. Caution: These textured dials may be hypnotic…

The playful juxtaposition of nature’s creatures with man’s creations has been a signature style of the Cartier Maison. Take its new high jewellery collection Nature Sauvage which exudes the spirit of flora and fauna and celebrates creatures in surreal shapes and forms. Every piece is meticulously crafted as a wearable work of art, beautifully igniting the imagination and paying homage to the wonders of the natural world. The Maison has truly made yet another sparkling array of haute joaillerie. One of the standouts for this collection is the Alae necklace. This art-deco inspired creation mimics the silhouette of a skyscraper, but upon closer inspection, a beautifully crafted beetle made of diamonds and onyxes with its wings caught in mid-beat is revealed. It’s a retelling of a playful tale of when…

MUSIC Walking into the PICC Plenary Hall in Manila on May 28 and 29 was like stepping into a high school prom: eager-faced individuals, mostly teens and people in their early 20s, in glamourous dresses, suits, shirts and pearl necklaces. Quite a number of them, male and female, tied ribbons in their hair—a tribute to the signature headwear of the Gen Z performer they were about to see: Laufey Lín Bing Jónsdóttir. The Icelandic Chinese singer-songwriter who performs under the name Laufey (say “Lay-vay”, not “Lau-fay”) was in Manila as part of her Bewitched: The Goddess tour, which started in October 2023, making stops across 16 countries in Europe, the US, Asia and Australia. As well as songs from her debut album Everything I Know About Love (2022) and her…

OASIS CHIC Whether you’re jetting off to stay in a glamorous riad in Marrakech, exploring the otherworldly salt lakes of Tunisia, or indulging in the magic of Arabian Nights in the Saudi desert, make sure to pack a selection of gloriously airy kaftans, a pair of (or three) statement sunglasses and a gorgeous hat—and just like that, you’re ready to channel your inner (post-tales-telling) Scheherazade. FALLIN’ FOR THE CITY There’s nothing like a city break in autumn; something about wandering urban streets just calls for fabulous fashion, and the in-between season is the perfect time to flaunt it. Khaki, brown and yellow tones may be predictable, but they work perfectly at this time of year. Embrace the season’s rich textures and patterns, and top off your outfits with a chunky…

Books are transportive. A fantastically well-written book can help you escape the drudgery of your daily grind and take you into a different world, a different reality. It’s why people often say they “escape” into their favourite books. Travel literature, in particular, is especially transportive. Great travel books—both fiction and nonfiction—take you on a journey through the eyes of the author, letting you explore new places, cultures, and adventures from the comfort of your own home. Here are some of my own favourite travel books that will ignite your wanderlust and make you yearn for adventure. ON THE ROAD BY JACK KEROUAC On The Road is the quintessential road trip novel. Kerouac’s spontaneous prose and his vibrant depiction of 1950s America is a celebration of freedom, exploration, and the open…

In India, the best places to eat are some of the country’s best-kept secrets. For every fine-dining restaurant that takes the internet by storm, there is almost always a more low-key yet equally delicious and authentic alternative nearby—and more often than not, it’s a hole-in-the-wall eatery that most visitors wouldn’t glance twice at. But these are the places that those in the know go to. And Chef Palash Mitra, the culinary director of South Asian cuisine at Black Sheep Restaurants (BSR), is definitely someone who’s in the know. In April this year, Tatler accompanied Mitra and a few other members of the BSR team on a culinary inspiration trip to India, ahead of the opening of Prince and the Peacock—the group’s newest restaurant, which pays tribute to the country’s royal…

Packing smart can make all the difference between a smooth door-to-door journey and unnecessary sartorial travel stress. Hying off on a two-week break that requires mind-boggling wardrobe choices for two dissimilar climates? Wedging a glam wedding in between a series of intercontinental work meetings—because, why not? These packing pros answer our most pressing questions and show us a thing or two about packing for any occasion, climate, and travel duration—anytime, anywhere—sans shelling out for those dreadful excess baggage fees. RISSA MANANQUIL TRILLO AUTHOR, ENTREPRENEUR AND UN WOMEN CHAMPION When packing, I like to combine creativity with practicality. Whether for a two-week trip or a short getaway, I find myself creating a capsule wardrobe and challenging myself as to how creative I can get. This not only saves luggage space, but…

SIZE MATTERS And probably not in the way you think. The smaller or more intimate a hotel is, the better, as more travellers opt for boutique properties. Storytelling through design, environmental impact, connection to the local community and an authentic “sense of place” are increasingly influential when choosing where to stay. THINK GLOBAL, ACT LOCAL More hotels are connecting with their local audience, establishing themselves as cultural hubs on their home turf. Like Desa Potato Head in Bali—my editors are probably sick of me waxing lyrical about this place, but I genuinely believe it sets a precedent for the future of hotels. Operating as more of a village than resort, its unique approach to cultural programming spans art, music and wellness. Meanwhile, The Upper House in Hong Kong has a…