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* originally published on When in Manila *


When in Manila, once again, was part of another concert in the metro. Last April 19th, Japanese post-rock band, TOE, quaked the grounds of Manila for the second–and hopefully not the last–time.

It was a Friday night but the usual start-of-the-weekend heavy traffic along EDSA didn’t hinder TOE fans from being there on time. The show took place at Metrotent in Pasig City. It was a pretty wise decision for Intastella Burst HK, the official organizer of the event, to change the venue because more than a thousand goers clicked ‘attending’ on the concert’s Facebook event page. If it pushed through at its original venue, which was B Side in Makati City, the whole place would’ve been totally a drag for everyone since their courtyard is really not conducive to a lot of people (especially since Metro Manila is a living sauna these past few weeks!).

I was really stoked weeks before the concert because it was my first time to cover a big event for When in Manila. I wanted it to be rad so I came with my partner-of-all-trades, Bijan Gorospe, who took all the photos for this feature article (he was also the one who made me listen to the band).

We made it in the nick of time. A lot of people hung out at the entrance. A few let time pass by grabbing a quick grub at a nearby food bazaar, the Il Mercante, which was just a few steps away from the tent. Some made the night a perfect opportunity to catch up with friends and acquaintances who they rarely see.

As I’ve mentioned, this was TOE‘s second time to be in the Philippines. But to their fans, first time audience and returning viewers alike, TOE always deliver an extraordinary performance that’s worthy of infinite repeat.

Unlike the usual formation of band members during gigs, TOE likes things more intimate. The fantastic four (Takashi Kashikura – drums, Takaaki Mino & Hirokazu Yamazaki – guitars, and Satoshi Yamane – bass), usually play facing each other, circled around the platform. Therefore, if you’re part of the crowd, you’ll always be able to see how good they are at rocking out with their instruments, no matter where you are standing or sitting.

TOE played incredible music for almost 2 whole hours, with compulsory guitar tuning and occasional sips of beer/water as their only intervals. They are a bunch of men with few words. Even though there’s no lyrics (and if there was, it would be in Japanese!) to their songs, the crowd effortlessly connected to their earth-thumping music.

The place was jammed with people and since it was general admission only, we had to inch our way to the best angle that we can get. Thanks to the band’s stunning lighting, all pictures came out really dramatic and vivid–just how it really was in real life.

TOE lets their sound do the talking so we’re doing the same thing and let the pictures speak for their awesomeness. Without much ado, here are the photos!









To sum up the night, TOE fans said the show was “sulit pero bitin!” Special thanks to Chi Brotonel of Intastella Burst HK, who made this partnership with When in Manila possible. ‘Til the next band!

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How does anyone know if something is really bound to happen to him and for the rest of his life? There's not an easy way to find out unless the person-on-instigation figures it out by and for himself. And if there actually was a way to do so, most people would have chosen the breeziest and grandest paths. And there would be a hall of fame for the most ungrateful bastards of the universe, four times a year, minimum.

Because no one ever does.

We all have to painstakingly go through ups and downs and merry-go-rounds to know what we truly want in life. There's always a battle between the dumb mind and the dumber heart. And the truth is, there isn't a wrong decision.

Because there will always be a point wherein you thought that that was you really wanted. And that's why you chose it. You wanted it to happen.

There isn't a wrong decision until something gets irreparably wrecked. Until then, no one will just nod and instantly agree that, hey, there is always a better decision. There's a process to these kinds of things.

I, for one, am at a point in my life where I need to make the thorniest decision of my life (by far) and I surely am clueless about anything that's bound to happen to me. And for the rest of my life.

It feels like I shouldn't care anymore and that I should just go and/or let go.

Everything's just a black hole of blurred vision and slurred diction and, sooner or later, something has got to sink in. Something has got to happen.

At times like this, I wish I was as life-experienced as Louis C.K. I wish I knew how to handle most things rationally and not let my emotions get in the way. But positively thinking, I'm still young and I do have a lot of growing up to do, things to screw, and words to spew ('sucks to be you').

All things happen for a reason. For countless of centuries now, it has always been that way. And people learn to deal with life because of these reasons. They need to deal with life. Likewise, I do, too.

Compromises. Decisions. Opportunities. Optimism. Promises. Reasons for being. The ever-after.

It is my time to shine, isn't it?

Fuck everything else:

The best things in life should be free.

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* originally published on The Philippine Star *

“It takes half your life before you discover life is a do-it-yourself project,” said American author Napoleon Hill.

Having the courage to screw up is the most defining trait of a “DIYer” – just like how going green, berserk, and incredibly strong is attributed to The Hulk.

Doing-it-yourself brings a deeper and more meaningful connection to the most basic of things. Handmade gifts are especially cherished because it’s like sharing a part of oneself with the receiver.

DIYing also gives justice to human beings’ evolved opposable thumbs. There is more room for creativity and originality. And because there is freedom to experiment, a lot of DIYers succeed in transforming their thirst for making things from a hobby into a business.

According to Make magazine editor-in-chief Mark Frauenfelder, no two crafters are alike because there is no limit to their aspirations.

While almost everything today can be done through automatic, digital, or even magical, gizmos, Craft MNL sells the idea of “working with one’s hands” and doing things resourcefully from scratch.

A community of artisans, businessmen, and designers, Craft MNL encourages crafters around Metro Manila to make use of their interests, passion, and talent as worthwhile hobbies and other meaningful ventures.

She further explained, “Because we’re quite saturated with technology and all things digital, people are looking for a more analogue pace and making things. DIYing is growing as a culture,” said Marielle Nadal, Craft MNL’s main go-to person.

Philosophically, Craft MNL believes that the process of making things is a metaphor for turning ideas into reality. The steps toward realizing one’s goals lead to bigger things – making dreams possible and within reach.

Their resourceful team also includes Lex Reyes, Nikki Abs, Andrei Salud, Sheina Tobias, and Fara Manuel.

Reyes, formerly a marine researcher, is a children’s outdoor camp director and a researcher for a Japanese consulting firm. Having a keen interest in innovation, Reyes writes, designs, and facilitates workshops in Craft MNL.

While a craft smith at Junk Studio, Abs is also passionate about music and food. “MakeSHIFT Saturdays” is one of her upcycling brainchildren at Craft MNL, where she’s also the all-around workshop manager.

Salud and Tobias are graphic designers from Hocus. Their forte comes with vintage styles, screen printing, carpentry, and bikes. They are also the original occupants of Craft MNL’s space at The Collective in Makati City.

The idea of putting up this kind of community stemmed out during Nadal’s class on women social entrepreneurs, wherein she noticed that a number of business-oriented persons used craft-based materials.

“As a designer, I figured this was an area I wanted to work in, producing designs for local crafts and locally made products,” she recalled.

Crochet, embroidery, jewellery, printmaking, sewing, and woodcraft are just a few of Craft MNL’s offered workshops. The exchange of ideas, learning, and skills among its community members is always proactive.

Craft MNL envisions a country of makers. It aims to recognize the craftsmanship, ingenuity, and pride of Philippine handmade products.

“We’d also like to put into the limelight some of our heritage crafts, local materials, and upcycling crafts, and create tools for the greater dissemination of information on these,” Nadal added.

To actualize these missions, Craft MNL provides accessible venues for the local community where appreciation and awareness of Philippine craftsmanship may take place.

Craft MNL also supports Philippine traditional craftsmanship through various affiliations. They have collaborated with the Takatak Project to promote Paete Laguna’s papier-mâché.

They have started workshops specifically designed to sustain our local heritage crafts, like palm leaf weaving and using takas as decorations for children’s parties.

Making crafts has also taught a lot of entrepreneurs with exploring their business endeavors. Majority of Craft MNL’s attendees want to acquire crafting skills to expand their businesses and to provide insights to their business ventures that they like to learn more about.

Doing handcrafted things also can serve as a stress-reliever. “It’s becoming time for yourself and seeing what you’ve made can be really rewarding,” she added.

Craft MNL has a growing number of followers who share their interest and expertise on craft. Last year, they had around 70 workshops with more than 200 participants.

Screen printing is their best-selling workshop, followed by rubber cut printmaking, and bookbinding.

Craft MNL’s previous workshops have featured a number of crafters who are experts in their own fields – Mia Casal for pottery, Jac Colmenares-Zapatos for doll making, and Arlene Barbaza for decoupage.

The following artists that would be showcasing their artistry at Craft MNL soon: An Alcantara on teaching terra cotta storyteller dolls, Ugu Bigyan on teaching pottery, and brass artist Carlito Ortega on giving a brass sculpture demonstration. These will be happening at their Maker Holiday/Craft Getaway at Casa San Pablo.

This year, they will also be holding “Cuentos: The Stories of Our Hands” in Laguna and a similar activity in Dumaguete. Their Crafting PHL Project is still ongoing and a craft fair is in the works as well.

In lieu of Craft MNL’s promising venture to celebrate the works of one’s hands, Nadal revealed more of their upcoming events this year.

“We’ll continue with our workshops, and will see more creative business-oriented talks to cultivate our creative entrepreneurs.  We’ll also be having more heritage workshops, and more craft gatherings to bring the community together.”

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* originally published on The Philippine Star *

Filipinos are big meat eaters. If you’re born one, pork is probably your middle name – or beef, or chicken, or fish. Taking away meat from one’s dietary limbo is like stealing his fondness for coin-operated videoke machines with matching ice cold San Miguel beer.

Vegan Alessandra Lanot has set these beliefs to hibernation with her restaurant, Pipino Vegetarian.

A vegetarian since high school, Alessa’s idea of opening a vegetarian restaurant of her own became a dream when she was living in a foreign land.

After graduating from Ateneo de Manila, where she studied Communications, Alessa moved to New York to continue her studies in Parsons School of Design and New York University.

“Living in the city opened up my eyes (and taste buds) to a whole new vegetarian lifestyle. I came from a family than ran restaurants, so I knew that dream could always be a possibility,” she recalled.

The Pipino team
Her desire to make her dream come true was realized when she started dating PJ Lanot, her boyfriend then and now her husband, in 2008. Their common fascination of opening a restaurant was Cupid’s way of tying the two.

When Pipino was launched as a six-item vegetarian line as a part of the Pino Restobar menu, which was then just being started by her husband.

After six months, the couple noticed that a lot of people were coming in for their vegetarian meals. That was when they decided that it was time to open a restaurant.

In 2010, the first branch of Pipino opened on the second floor of Pino in Malingap, Teacher’s Village.

Healthy meets delicious – this is the Lanots’ tagline for their non-meat restaurant.

In spite of the Filipinos’ enormous appetite, regardless of food groups, Pipino knows how the way to their customers’ stomachs.

“Our portions are plated for a guy in mind. We have male partners in the business and they always say that if a girl can finish a dish, then it’s not enough for guys,” Alessa said.

Pipino is known for serving creative, delectable vegan dishes. A few of their best-sellers are the Cheeseless Vegan Lasagna and Portobello Inasal with Red Beet Puree and Salsa.

They also serve a strange but scrumptious dish – the Watermelon Steak, which Alessa described as “a grilled slab of watermelon that’s served with green beans and taro miso mash.”

Together with Alessa and PJ, the Pino team is comprised of Star Jose and Chef Edward Bugia.

Pipino Vegetarian at Jupiter Makati
Today, Pipino has opened its second branch in Jupiter, Makati City.

Looking at the bigger picture, vegetarianism is not atypical to Asians, who have been practicing it in their diets for countless of centuries. Authentic Filipino cuisine has a number of dishes that are only beans and vegetables.

Asked about the perks of being a veggie junkie, Alessa said, “[They are] better sleeping habits, better skin, and feeling good in general.”

Having said this, her unending supply of energy probably comes from being “meatless.”

Unlike generic super-heroines, who wear tight leather jumpsuits and cat-eye masks to rescue dames in distress or defeat other mean-hearted villainesses, Alessa has her own painstaking way of saving the world, not only through serving delightful veggie dishes, but also through arts and crafts.

Alessa single-handedly authors a website named Life After Breakfast. To her, blogging is an outlet for her several creative pursuits. She likes providing original content to her increasing followers because this also benefits her creative process.

She has also contributed to Punchdrunk Panda, where she designed a watercolored ‘Eat Your Veggies’ camera strap, and to Craft MNL, where she conducted some craft workshops last year.

Watercolored typography makes her meditative. Her recent illustrations have attracted the attention of brides-to-be.

Her works mirror the trademark of the Filipinos as she believes that the Philippines should be known as the best place to make and learn traditional and modern handmade crafts.

According to her, personal pride naturally develops after producing a handmade piece.

“Encouraging people to go back to the handmade lifestyle will not only educate them, but will make them appreciate the country’s diverse natural resources,” she added.

Leisure-wise, travel does not only fuel her creativity. It also has a special spot in Alessa’s heart.

Design to Travel, Travel to Design
One of her travel-related projects is called “Design to Travel, Travel to Design,” where she documents her love for adventure and showcases her eye for design.

“I design (work) so that I can earn money to travel, and I travel so that I can find new inspiration to design. I'll probably keep this on loop all throughout my life,” Alessa declared.

As if running a restaurant and doing crafts is not enough to keep her very busy, Alessa still finds time to appreciate her happily married life.

She shared with contentment, “I’m lucky that my husband supports my dreams and ideas 100%, and it also helps that we work on the restaurants together, so we spend a lot of time together.”

Of all the things that Alessa does, she conscientiously chose crafting as the most rewarding activity for her.

“Design is my profession, Pipino is my business, but crafting and my blog, Life After Breakfast, are really just hobbies! But even if I wasn’t paid for it [crafting], I’d still be doing it,” she confessed.

Alessa’s followers should look forward to a lot of more inspiring projects happening this year. They will be having Craft Camp in May, a Craft Fair and Exhibit and a series of Bridal Crafternoons, both taking place in June.

She will also be collaborating with Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm and Bea Gomez for a Veg+Crafts+Yoga camp as well.

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* originally published on Yahoo Philippines, also seen on Vera Files *

Green superheroes Ben 10, The Green Lantern, and The Hulk are joining the Philippine election campaign.

No, 10-year old Ben the Omnitrix will not use his a mysterious alien weapon, Omnitrix, for either Team PNoy or United Nationalist Alliance senatorial candidates.

But who knows if Green Lantern would use the ring that grants him superpowers to fight those who threatens to upset the balance of power in the universe. Or if The Hulk would turn into a green, irradiated, mutated humanoid monster if he meets candidates coddling illegal loggers.

The participation of the emerald-attired superheroes in the election campaign is part of “Berde ka ba?” ---this year’s campaign theme of Greenpeace Philippines’ Green Electoral Initiative (GEI).

Coined from the rising fame of Pinoy rap culture of FlipTop, where contenders outfox each other through witty freestyle verses, “Berde ka ba” activities will include a public debate among senatorial candidates tentatively scheduled on April 24, 10 a.m., at the Leong Hall of the Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City.

“We plan to invite senatorial candidates who have environmental track records, or those who have anything to say regarding our 10-point legislative agenda survey that covers issues on chemical pollution and consumer safety, solid waste, sustainable agriculture and genetic engineering, climate change adaptation, oceans, mining,” said Therese Salvador, media team leader of Greenpeace Southeast Asia – Philippines.

According to Salvador, the candidates will be asked questions related to these topics “from a distinguished panel, from the audience, and from social media queries.”

Photo from Greenpeace Philippines

Conducted during election year, the GEI was launched in 2007 by Greenpeace in partnership with EcoWaste Coaltion. This year, the GEI is being made possible through the partnership of Greenpeace, EcoWaste, and Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives with the Ateneo School of Government.

“GEI aims to ensure that the right of Filipinos to ‘a balanced and healthful ecology’ is upheld and safeguarded,” Salvador explained.

Greenpeace Philippines mainly promotes and supports public engagements that raise debates on why Filipinos should be concerned about the environment – and why getting involved now is important.

“We hope that the dedication, passion, youthful energy, and creativity coupled with scientifically-sound arguments will serve as inspiration that would change behaviors of individuals, governments, business and communities in order to save what is left of this earth and allow her to heal,” Greenpeace said.

Greenpeace has been committed to defending the naturally blessed and bio-diverse environment of Southeast Asia since 1994.

Established in 2000 in the Philippines, Greenpeace has paved the way for the passage of The Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 (and other landmark environmental laws) that included an unprecedented national ban against garbage incineration.

The earth-friendly society also significantly contributed to the launch of the electric-powered jeepney (or eJeepney) project in 2007.

Greenpeace Philippines’ “avocado advocates” are currently working on putting an end to the use of dirty fossil fuels, like coal, which contributes to climate change in the country.

They also help save oceans and seas by continuously lobbying the government for a stronger enforcement of laws to protect the country’s marine environment.

The “olive warriors” of Greenpeace are tasked with helping eliminate cancer-causing chemicals from the Filipino’s daily lives, including those hidden in gadgets and everyday clothing.

Agriculture-wise, they also take part in fighting against the commercialization of genetically-modified organisms.

With a number of virtual means by which Filipinos can contribute to Greenpeace Philippines’ ecological campaigns, pledging donations and becoming a volunteer are just a couple of clicks away on their website.

The group makes social networking relevant through its “donate one tweet a day” program, where Twitter users can simply link their accounts to JustCause.org and automatic donations are made every time a message is posted.

Greenpeace Philippines also participates on a global scale, particularly to protect and rescue the Arctic region --- a threatened part of the Earth due to climate change, drilling explorations, and industrial fishing.

“Eyes on the Arctic,” the largest participatory art project in the world to date, employs hundreds of portraits, each “looking up and thinking about the magic and mystery of the far North,” to create a unique piece of art at the North Pole.

Also this month, the rangers of Greenpeace International will mount an epic trip to the North Pole, as part of its Arctic campaign.

Whether locally or globally, Greenpeace makes all ways possible for an individual to actively participate in saving the world – one green piece of action at a time.

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"a catatonic catwoman,
a catastrophe!"
As far back as I can remember, I wasn't really fascinated with cats as a kid. But if obsessing over Hello Kitty during elementary until high school (and knowing that her birthday is the same as All Saints' Day) is considered as a crazy catlady syndrome, then I guess I have always been in love with the feline family since time immemorial.

The first pussy that I came to be attached with was Bogart. He was not the cute and cuddly type, though. He was as stiff as a stoned stoner and smelled of eau de formalin. As a pre-med student, I dissected him inside-out for my anatomy and physiology laboratory class. Even though Bogart was a cold cadaver, I knew him very well: from his integumentary system to his brain and spinal cord.

Me in my catspectacles & with Milky Moo
If I pursued my medical career, I probably would have been a cat doctor; I swear. A felinologist. A catherapist. A pussysian.

But I didn't.

Fast-forward to now, I've never realized how much of a sucker I am for cats until I seriously wanted to change my real name into Caterin, until I found myself googling "how come cats like fish but hate water" and "how old can cats take a bath / get pregnant," until I found calling out to and counting all the stray cats I see on the way home (or anywhere!) as a newfound hobby, and, most especially, until I came up with a list of "reasons why I should be a cat in my next lifetime or why I should've been one in the present."

I can't help it. I'm cat-whipped!

In lieu of my catwomanhood, I wrote the names of cats I have and had and, surprisingly, I'm already at a 2-digit count.

Here's a list of my cat loves:

#1 ROMEO 
(stray Whitey cat, male)

Romeo was my very first -legit- cat. My uncle found him in our village in Pasig and brought Romeo to me all the way to Estrella, Makati (I used to live with my sister family there). He had an all-white coat and a pair of majestic blue eyes. I named him after our village's name, Marietta Romeo (and because it sounded a lot nicer than Mario).

After 3 or so weeks, Romeo ran away and I was left heartbroken. A few months after his untimely and voluntary exit, I remember seeing a cat that looked very much like him that just roamed around our 'hood. But he never responded to my cat-calls. I knew then that I had to let Romeo go.

Romeo, 2007


#2 LUCIO
(Siamese cat, male)

I got Lucio through scouring Buy and Sell ads, just around a month after Romeo chose the filthy streets over my loving arms. Lucio (whom I also called Lucy, Lucy baby, Lucy Fern, or Lucy in the sky with diamonds) was a darling of all sorts.

Although Lucio used to be feeble, he grew to be a furry fatso. He usually slept with me on my bed. I couldn't remember him being naughty. He was very, very sweet. Sadly, when he was around 33 human years old (via), Lucio became sickly again. He started losing weight and became really ill that even medications couldn't save him.

Lucio passed away a few days after my 25th birthday. We buried him beside our artesian well. My heart still aches whenever I remember him. He will always be my sweetheart baby boy cat. I love you forever, Lucio!

Lucio, 2007

Lucio, 2011


#3 unnamed 
(stray Tuxedo-Cowcat, female)

I was digging the old photographs in my hard drive when I found this cute baby. She was all-clingy and crept against my legs when I found her somewhere in Riverbanks. If I didn't see that Lucio had a picture with her, I wouldn't realize that I actually took the kitty home.

I honestly do not know what happened to her. I was staying at a dormitory in Manila at that time and I couldn't bring a pet with me. It's possible that she died because she was really thin and sickly when I got her. I never had the chance to name her and that makes me sad. She could've been my first female kitty.

unnamed, 2009

unnamed, 2009


#3 BRUCE 
(stray Tuxedo cat, male)

A few months after Lucio's heart-wrenching demise, Bruce became my next baby boy. Denise, a friend and a former work-mate, found Bruce, who was maybe only a month young then, near our office in Makati. She brought Bruce inside our workplace, where everyone was crazy for cats, and since I recently lost Lucio, she let me adopt the motherless kitty.

We named him Bruce because his face looks like Batman's mask, as in Bruce Wayne. Also, that was the time when I was gaga for Bruce Lee, so that sealed the deal.

Bruce is now a macho tomcat! But is still super sweet. His black and white coat looks very gorgeous, too! He still kneads his favorite ladybug pillow from time to time -- if he's not busy occupying more than half of my bed.

Bruce, 2012 (left) & 2013 (right)

Bruce & co., 2013


#4 BURTON 
(stray Basement cat, male)

A few days after I adopted Bruce, a pack of 3 adorable kittens were found near our office again. One of them was all black (with all blue eyes!) and I got dibs on the critter without much ado. I named him Burton after one of my favorite filmmakers. And I brought him home to meet Bruce.

They instantly became friends. No lousy hissings or messy territorial pissings. Bruce and Burton were adorable together. I used to bring the two of them to the office alternately because I only commuted and I only had a tote bag to bring one of them along. Burton was the cry baby so I usually took Bruce with me.

However, I had to let go of Burton because of my trip to Seoul. Shinji adopted him and renamed him Tulfo. I haven't seen Tulfo ever since I came back from South Korea, even though I've gone to Shinji's house a number of times. Shinji said that Burton has been living with his neighbor's, who has a ladycat caretaker. Well, just as long as he's still alive, then I'm okay with that.

Bruce & Burton, 2012

Burton watching Breaking Bad, 2012


#5 CHUCK
 (stray Cowcat, male)

Chuck was found by the same uncle of mine, who found Romeo. He was charming and I decided to keep him so Bruce will have a playmate - look at them (below) snuggle like swirly babies! Bijan suggested the name Chuck, as in Norris.

However, Chuck only lasted a few days with me. My mother got pissed (for some unknown reason) and decided to throw Chuck away - without letting me know! I just woke up one morning and Chuck's nowhere to be found... I still get frustrated whenever I remember this, Chuck was really something.

Chuck, 2012

Bruce & Chuck, 2012


#6 TOFU
(stray Whitey cat, female)

Tofu is a sweetie pie. Bijan and I first saw her as a very tiny kitty at an empty house next to theirs. She was with a sibling and they were crying for milk and yelping for rescue. We tried catching them through the tall and barbed wire wall, using an old net and some left-over okoy. But we did not succeed.

A few weeks later, during Bijan's sister's birthday, Tofu literally entered their house and, of course, we instantly claimed her as ours. We knew that she was the same white kitten! On the same night, we gave her a bath and fed her some grilled fish... and she's been a sweetheart since then.

Okay, Tofu is not really mine but I like to think that she's one of Bijan and I's conjugal properties, ha-ha. We call her Mr. Uhog and Tufo most of the time. (I initially wanted to name her Django, though!)

Tofu, 2013


#7, #8 MULLET & KEEMPEE 
(stray Cowcats, both male)

Bijan and I adopted Mullet the Baka and Keempee the Lion from our good fellas, Patet and Tomi. Because they have 2 mother cats at home, Flip (the angel) and Chicken (the bitch), they frequently have new-born kittens, which they usually throw them after a month or two. Flip and Chicken gave birth almost at the same time and their babies were so irresistible that I needed to adopt at least one of them. I just had to.

We took 2 cuties home and they are now happily (s)mothered by me, Bijan, and Tofu! Also, we sometimes call them Mollit and Kempi. They're growing big so fast!

Mullet & Keempee, 2013

Tofu & Mullet & Keempee, 2013


#9, #10 JULIO & JULIA 
(Siamese cats, male and female)

I couldn't take Mullet or Keempee from the south to the east so I left them with Bijan. I miss them almost everyday and I constantly hoped that I have new kittens of my own. A few days later, I saw a bunch of Siamese kittens for sale in our village and I simply had to make them mine!

I picked Julio first because I am more attached to male cats and I like to be reminded of my baby Lucio. But Julia had the sweetest face! I never had a female cat so I got her, too. Plus, I'm really excited to be a catgranny one day.

Julio and Julia (names, again, suggested by Bijan) are super inseparable. And I'm lucky because it only took around 3 days of hissing before Bruce started befriending (and licking!) them. I can't wait for the 3 of them to have lots of furry babies. Hooray for animal incest!

Julio & Julia, 2013

Julio & Julia, 2013

Ergo, I presently have 3 furbabies (Bruce, Julio, and Julia) and whenever I'm at Bijan's, I also have 3 (Tofu, Mullet, and Keempee)! AND I WANT MORE! /purr/ /knead/ /forever/

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Even though I am all sorts of bathetic and a sucker for silly love songs, I don't have a keen sense of mixing music. But I actually made one a year ago. It was probably my first time to come up with one so I had to make an 8tracks account for it. Of course, it is intended for the beige boy love. Everything's cheesy (by the way, sorry for using the same cardiac image, I told you I suck at this) but hey, feel free to spare a wee while and listen to it below:



Tracklist:

01.  Playground Love - Air
02. Pen and Notebook - Camera Obscura
03. I Know What I Want - Math and Physics Club
04. I Won't Share You - The Morning Benders
05. Girl in Love - Smith Westerns
06. Please Let That Be You - The Rentals
07. Lover of Mine - Beach House
08. Crazy for You - Best Coast
09. I Love You - The Dandy Warhols
10. Hysteric - Yeah Yeah Yeahs
11. Stuck on the Puzzle - Alex Turner
12. Sleep Tonight - Stars
13. Pigeon - Tennis
14. Baby, I Love You - The Ramones
15. To the End - Blur
16. Disasters Are Okay - Letting Up Despite Great Fault

Hopia like it as much as I do!

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* originally published on When in Manila *

When in Manila digs deeper into the metro’s art scene, as 98B COLLABoratory aims to unite our local artists and revive the places that used to highlight our cities’ beauty and legacy. Read on to know more about how art can save our beloved Manila.

Some of the world’s most riveting authors had strange habits when they wrote their literary masterpieces. John Steinbeck had a lunacy for pencils and used more than 300 in “Grapes of Wrath.” Vladimir Nabokov, the author of “Lolita,” loved soaking in a bath tub as he wrote. Jack Kerouac taped more than a hundred feet of paper for uninterrupted typewriting, which took him around 3 weeks only to complete the draft of “On the Road.”

However, these writers were not the only ones to have the need of satiating their weird methods in order to get their jobs done. All right-brain dominant people, who are scientifically known to be creative, also have to have their own familiar settings so they could become more imaginative and productive.

In Manila today, the places where creative people could connect, converse, and cooperate are lacking. Most artists resort to the comfort of their own lairs and the “just-a-few-clicks-away” luxury of being connected to the Internet. Everyone’s safe zones gradually diminish the importance of being physically and socially interactive.

It works differently with Mark Salvatus. To him, great minds think alike and go best with curious hands. He wanted to address the scarcity of such venues so he opened his residence with support from his close artist friends.

Thus, 98B was born.

Salvatus and the artists who run 98B described it as a “multi-disciplinary art COLLABoratory” that aims to provide a venue where artists, curators, designers, educators, film makers, musicians, performers, researchers, students, writers, and other creative individuals can brainstorm, collaborate, and interact.

Today, 98B holds office at the mezzanine floor of the First United Building, formerly the famous Berg Department Store. Designed by Juan Luna’s son, Andres Luna de San Pedro, the building is celebrating its 85th anniversary this year.

“98B also serves as a community [that has] a kitchen, a library, a network, and a shop,” they said.

Through its various programs, 98B promotes diversity in art expression and art form. It stimulates communication among its collaborators and encourages projects, making art more accessible to the Filipinos.

98B holds bazaars, garage sales, and thrift shops as part of their Future Market program to support artists, craft makers, designers, and even assist hoarders dispose and earn from their stashes of artworks, bags, clothes, stickers, toys, zines, and other pre-loved items.

Recently, 98B resuscitated the fashionable spirit and vibrancy of Escolta, Manila by organizing the first “Saturday Market @ Escolta.”

To revive the old school feel of Escolta— known as Manila’s Queen of the Streets for its best art deco architecture— the bazaar was held at the basement of the First United Building.

In an attempt to renew Escolta’s old character and historical attraction, 98B will launch projects that would unravel its past and nurture its present condition.

“With everyone’s help, we can all help breathe new life to Escolta,” they said.

Currently, the 98B team is working on “Hola! Escolta,” coined from Jane Jacob’s seminal book on urban planning where she stated that, “cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.”

Asked why they chose Escolta, they further explained: “By some twist of fate, an opportunity came before us.  Maybe Escolta chose us.   We have started to grow our roots here and it is an ongoing love affair with the area, the community, and its history.”

Art talks are also held in 98B under their Design and Community program. “TALKS,” a series of presentations, serves as an experimental platform for exchanging and exploring perspectives among artists and the local community.

In “rePORTS,” a newly launched subseries under TALKS, local artists present their experiences in other countries to encourage other creative individuals to share their inspiring stories before, during, and after their trips abroad.

98B also provides a public haven of books, brochures, exhibition catalogues, journals, magazines, posters, recordings, and videos. Aside from the Open Library program, 98B also has a Digital Library that is intended to share an extensive reference to other networks around the world.

“98B aspires to make art more accessible by involving and incorporating different stakeholders towards organically fostering a dynamic creative community,” they said.

One of their biggest projects to date is the first Behance Portfolio Review in the Philippines, which was held last November 2012. The event called for art submissions that incorporated the word “Manila.”

“The participants were given the chance to have their portfolios reviewed by professionals in the field. It was a good opportunity for mentorship and guidance,” they added.

“YokohaManila,” a curated guidebook of Manila, is 98B’s most successful international art collaborations to date. A part of their Residency program, the project is targeted to create a multi-layered cultural exchange where an artist could explore his practice in a different setting.

YokohaManila, in cooperation with the Koganecho Bazaar, uniquely chronicles the month-long stay of Japanese architect Yumiko Ishihara and Japanese artist Jun Homma, together with local artists Con Cabrera and Don Dalmacio, who are also part of the 98B team.

The cultural similarities and differences between the Filipino and Japanese cultures were visually illustrated using flyovers around the metro and, at the same, “metaphorically bridged the two cultures,” they added.

Earlier this year, “FOR THE RECORD,” a dialogue on historiography versus performance, was also organized by 98B. The forum included Jef Carnay, Lena Cobangbang, Boyet Demesa, and Judy Sibayan as panellists, and Eileen Legaspi Ramirez as the moderator.

The 98B team is composed of Mark Salvatus, founder and co-director; Con Cabrera, head of  research and development; Pau Reyes, future market; Vermont Coronel III and Don Dalmacio, design and community; Mik Laborde, communications and finances; Gabriel Villegas, kitchen, IT, and web; Marika Constantino, special projects; and Anjo Bolarda, design studio.

Through 98B’s initiative on re-instilling the value of having places where artists can merge their abilities, Manila’s flourishing art and culture scene is now more conducive to birthing new ideas and continuous learning. Hopefully, more local groups will be inspired to relive old places and turn them again into what they used to be.

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TOE-temo Genki Desu: TOE Live in Manila 2013

* originally published on When in Manila *


When in Manila, once again, was part of another concert in the metro. Last April 19th, Japanese post-rock band, TOE, quaked the grounds of Manila for the second–and hopefully not the last–time.

It was a Friday night but the usual start-of-the-weekend heavy traffic along EDSA didn’t hinder TOE fans from being there on time. The show took place at Metrotent in Pasig City. It was a pretty wise decision for Intastella Burst HK, the official organizer of the event, to change the venue because more than a thousand goers clicked ‘attending’ on the concert’s Facebook event page. If it pushed through at its original venue, which was B Side in Makati City, the whole place would’ve been totally a drag for everyone since their courtyard is really not conducive to a lot of people (especially since Metro Manila is a living sauna these past few weeks!).

I was really stoked weeks before the concert because it was my first time to cover a big event for When in Manila. I wanted it to be rad so I came with my partner-of-all-trades, Bijan Gorospe, who took all the photos for this feature article (he was also the one who made me listen to the band).

We made it in the nick of time. A lot of people hung out at the entrance. A few let time pass by grabbing a quick grub at a nearby food bazaar, the Il Mercante, which was just a few steps away from the tent. Some made the night a perfect opportunity to catch up with friends and acquaintances who they rarely see.

As I’ve mentioned, this was TOE‘s second time to be in the Philippines. But to their fans, first time audience and returning viewers alike, TOE always deliver an extraordinary performance that’s worthy of infinite repeat.

Unlike the usual formation of band members during gigs, TOE likes things more intimate. The fantastic four (Takashi Kashikura – drums, Takaaki Mino & Hirokazu Yamazaki – guitars, and Satoshi Yamane – bass), usually play facing each other, circled around the platform. Therefore, if you’re part of the crowd, you’ll always be able to see how good they are at rocking out with their instruments, no matter where you are standing or sitting.

TOE played incredible music for almost 2 whole hours, with compulsory guitar tuning and occasional sips of beer/water as their only intervals. They are a bunch of men with few words. Even though there’s no lyrics (and if there was, it would be in Japanese!) to their songs, the crowd effortlessly connected to their earth-thumping music.

The place was jammed with people and since it was general admission only, we had to inch our way to the best angle that we can get. Thanks to the band’s stunning lighting, all pictures came out really dramatic and vivid–just how it really was in real life.

TOE lets their sound do the talking so we’re doing the same thing and let the pictures speak for their awesomeness. Without much ado, here are the photos!









To sum up the night, TOE fans said the show was “sulit pero bitin!” Special thanks to Chi Brotonel of Intastella Burst HK, who made this partnership with When in Manila possible. ‘Til the next band!
How does anyone know if something is really bound to happen to him and for the rest of his life? There's not an easy way to find out unless the person-on-instigation figures it out by and for himself. And if there actually was a way to do so, most people would have chosen the breeziest and grandest paths. And there would be a hall of fame for the most ungrateful bastards of the universe, four times a year, minimum.

Because no one ever does.

We all have to painstakingly go through ups and downs and merry-go-rounds to know what we truly want in life. There's always a battle between the dumb mind and the dumber heart. And the truth is, there isn't a wrong decision.

Because there will always be a point wherein you thought that that was you really wanted. And that's why you chose it. You wanted it to happen.

There isn't a wrong decision until something gets irreparably wrecked. Until then, no one will just nod and instantly agree that, hey, there is always a better decision. There's a process to these kinds of things.

I, for one, am at a point in my life where I need to make the thorniest decision of my life (by far) and I surely am clueless about anything that's bound to happen to me. And for the rest of my life.

It feels like I shouldn't care anymore and that I should just go and/or let go.

Everything's just a black hole of blurred vision and slurred diction and, sooner or later, something has got to sink in. Something has got to happen.

At times like this, I wish I was as life-experienced as Louis C.K. I wish I knew how to handle most things rationally and not let my emotions get in the way. But positively thinking, I'm still young and I do have a lot of growing up to do, things to screw, and words to spew ('sucks to be you').

All things happen for a reason. For countless of centuries now, it has always been that way. And people learn to deal with life because of these reasons. They need to deal with life. Likewise, I do, too.

Compromises. Decisions. Opportunities. Optimism. Promises. Reasons for being. The ever-after.

It is my time to shine, isn't it?

Fuck everything else:

The best things in life should be free.

Celebrating the Work of Our Hands

* originally published on The Philippine Star *

“It takes half your life before you discover life is a do-it-yourself project,” said American author Napoleon Hill.

Having the courage to screw up is the most defining trait of a “DIYer” – just like how going green, berserk, and incredibly strong is attributed to The Hulk.

Doing-it-yourself brings a deeper and more meaningful connection to the most basic of things. Handmade gifts are especially cherished because it’s like sharing a part of oneself with the receiver.

DIYing also gives justice to human beings’ evolved opposable thumbs. There is more room for creativity and originality. And because there is freedom to experiment, a lot of DIYers succeed in transforming their thirst for making things from a hobby into a business.

According to Make magazine editor-in-chief Mark Frauenfelder, no two crafters are alike because there is no limit to their aspirations.

While almost everything today can be done through automatic, digital, or even magical, gizmos, Craft MNL sells the idea of “working with one’s hands” and doing things resourcefully from scratch.

A community of artisans, businessmen, and designers, Craft MNL encourages crafters around Metro Manila to make use of their interests, passion, and talent as worthwhile hobbies and other meaningful ventures.

She further explained, “Because we’re quite saturated with technology and all things digital, people are looking for a more analogue pace and making things. DIYing is growing as a culture,” said Marielle Nadal, Craft MNL’s main go-to person.

Philosophically, Craft MNL believes that the process of making things is a metaphor for turning ideas into reality. The steps toward realizing one’s goals lead to bigger things – making dreams possible and within reach.

Their resourceful team also includes Lex Reyes, Nikki Abs, Andrei Salud, Sheina Tobias, and Fara Manuel.

Reyes, formerly a marine researcher, is a children’s outdoor camp director and a researcher for a Japanese consulting firm. Having a keen interest in innovation, Reyes writes, designs, and facilitates workshops in Craft MNL.

While a craft smith at Junk Studio, Abs is also passionate about music and food. “MakeSHIFT Saturdays” is one of her upcycling brainchildren at Craft MNL, where she’s also the all-around workshop manager.

Salud and Tobias are graphic designers from Hocus. Their forte comes with vintage styles, screen printing, carpentry, and bikes. They are also the original occupants of Craft MNL’s space at The Collective in Makati City.

The idea of putting up this kind of community stemmed out during Nadal’s class on women social entrepreneurs, wherein she noticed that a number of business-oriented persons used craft-based materials.

“As a designer, I figured this was an area I wanted to work in, producing designs for local crafts and locally made products,” she recalled.

Crochet, embroidery, jewellery, printmaking, sewing, and woodcraft are just a few of Craft MNL’s offered workshops. The exchange of ideas, learning, and skills among its community members is always proactive.

Craft MNL envisions a country of makers. It aims to recognize the craftsmanship, ingenuity, and pride of Philippine handmade products.

“We’d also like to put into the limelight some of our heritage crafts, local materials, and upcycling crafts, and create tools for the greater dissemination of information on these,” Nadal added.

To actualize these missions, Craft MNL provides accessible venues for the local community where appreciation and awareness of Philippine craftsmanship may take place.

Craft MNL also supports Philippine traditional craftsmanship through various affiliations. They have collaborated with the Takatak Project to promote Paete Laguna’s papier-mâché.

They have started workshops specifically designed to sustain our local heritage crafts, like palm leaf weaving and using takas as decorations for children’s parties.

Making crafts has also taught a lot of entrepreneurs with exploring their business endeavors. Majority of Craft MNL’s attendees want to acquire crafting skills to expand their businesses and to provide insights to their business ventures that they like to learn more about.

Doing handcrafted things also can serve as a stress-reliever. “It’s becoming time for yourself and seeing what you’ve made can be really rewarding,” she added.

Craft MNL has a growing number of followers who share their interest and expertise on craft. Last year, they had around 70 workshops with more than 200 participants.

Screen printing is their best-selling workshop, followed by rubber cut printmaking, and bookbinding.

Craft MNL’s previous workshops have featured a number of crafters who are experts in their own fields – Mia Casal for pottery, Jac Colmenares-Zapatos for doll making, and Arlene Barbaza for decoupage.

The following artists that would be showcasing their artistry at Craft MNL soon: An Alcantara on teaching terra cotta storyteller dolls, Ugu Bigyan on teaching pottery, and brass artist Carlito Ortega on giving a brass sculpture demonstration. These will be happening at their Maker Holiday/Craft Getaway at Casa San Pablo.

This year, they will also be holding “Cuentos: The Stories of Our Hands” in Laguna and a similar activity in Dumaguete. Their Crafting PHL Project is still ongoing and a craft fair is in the works as well.

In lieu of Craft MNL’s promising venture to celebrate the works of one’s hands, Nadal revealed more of their upcoming events this year.

“We’ll continue with our workshops, and will see more creative business-oriented talks to cultivate our creative entrepreneurs.  We’ll also be having more heritage workshops, and more craft gatherings to bring the community together.”

A mouthful of meatless manifesto

* originally published on The Philippine Star *

Filipinos are big meat eaters. If you’re born one, pork is probably your middle name – or beef, or chicken, or fish. Taking away meat from one’s dietary limbo is like stealing his fondness for coin-operated videoke machines with matching ice cold San Miguel beer.

Vegan Alessandra Lanot has set these beliefs to hibernation with her restaurant, Pipino Vegetarian.

A vegetarian since high school, Alessa’s idea of opening a vegetarian restaurant of her own became a dream when she was living in a foreign land.

After graduating from Ateneo de Manila, where she studied Communications, Alessa moved to New York to continue her studies in Parsons School of Design and New York University.

“Living in the city opened up my eyes (and taste buds) to a whole new vegetarian lifestyle. I came from a family than ran restaurants, so I knew that dream could always be a possibility,” she recalled.

The Pipino team
Her desire to make her dream come true was realized when she started dating PJ Lanot, her boyfriend then and now her husband, in 2008. Their common fascination of opening a restaurant was Cupid’s way of tying the two.

When Pipino was launched as a six-item vegetarian line as a part of the Pino Restobar menu, which was then just being started by her husband.

After six months, the couple noticed that a lot of people were coming in for their vegetarian meals. That was when they decided that it was time to open a restaurant.

In 2010, the first branch of Pipino opened on the second floor of Pino in Malingap, Teacher’s Village.

Healthy meets delicious – this is the Lanots’ tagline for their non-meat restaurant.

In spite of the Filipinos’ enormous appetite, regardless of food groups, Pipino knows how the way to their customers’ stomachs.

“Our portions are plated for a guy in mind. We have male partners in the business and they always say that if a girl can finish a dish, then it’s not enough for guys,” Alessa said.

Pipino is known for serving creative, delectable vegan dishes. A few of their best-sellers are the Cheeseless Vegan Lasagna and Portobello Inasal with Red Beet Puree and Salsa.

They also serve a strange but scrumptious dish – the Watermelon Steak, which Alessa described as “a grilled slab of watermelon that’s served with green beans and taro miso mash.”

Together with Alessa and PJ, the Pino team is comprised of Star Jose and Chef Edward Bugia.

Pipino Vegetarian at Jupiter Makati
Today, Pipino has opened its second branch in Jupiter, Makati City.

Looking at the bigger picture, vegetarianism is not atypical to Asians, who have been practicing it in their diets for countless of centuries. Authentic Filipino cuisine has a number of dishes that are only beans and vegetables.

Asked about the perks of being a veggie junkie, Alessa said, “[They are] better sleeping habits, better skin, and feeling good in general.”

Having said this, her unending supply of energy probably comes from being “meatless.”

Unlike generic super-heroines, who wear tight leather jumpsuits and cat-eye masks to rescue dames in distress or defeat other mean-hearted villainesses, Alessa has her own painstaking way of saving the world, not only through serving delightful veggie dishes, but also through arts and crafts.

Alessa single-handedly authors a website named Life After Breakfast. To her, blogging is an outlet for her several creative pursuits. She likes providing original content to her increasing followers because this also benefits her creative process.

She has also contributed to Punchdrunk Panda, where she designed a watercolored ‘Eat Your Veggies’ camera strap, and to Craft MNL, where she conducted some craft workshops last year.

Watercolored typography makes her meditative. Her recent illustrations have attracted the attention of brides-to-be.

Her works mirror the trademark of the Filipinos as she believes that the Philippines should be known as the best place to make and learn traditional and modern handmade crafts.

According to her, personal pride naturally develops after producing a handmade piece.

“Encouraging people to go back to the handmade lifestyle will not only educate them, but will make them appreciate the country’s diverse natural resources,” she added.

Leisure-wise, travel does not only fuel her creativity. It also has a special spot in Alessa’s heart.

Design to Travel, Travel to Design
One of her travel-related projects is called “Design to Travel, Travel to Design,” where she documents her love for adventure and showcases her eye for design.

“I design (work) so that I can earn money to travel, and I travel so that I can find new inspiration to design. I'll probably keep this on loop all throughout my life,” Alessa declared.

As if running a restaurant and doing crafts is not enough to keep her very busy, Alessa still finds time to appreciate her happily married life.

She shared with contentment, “I’m lucky that my husband supports my dreams and ideas 100%, and it also helps that we work on the restaurants together, so we spend a lot of time together.”

Of all the things that Alessa does, she conscientiously chose crafting as the most rewarding activity for her.

“Design is my profession, Pipino is my business, but crafting and my blog, Life After Breakfast, are really just hobbies! But even if I wasn’t paid for it [crafting], I’d still be doing it,” she confessed.

Alessa’s followers should look forward to a lot of more inspiring projects happening this year. They will be having Craft Camp in May, a Craft Fair and Exhibit and a series of Bridal Crafternoons, both taking place in June.

She will also be collaborating with Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm and Bea Gomez for a Veg+Crafts+Yoga camp as well.

Green superheroes on the campaign trail

* originally published on Yahoo Philippines, also seen on Vera Files *

Green superheroes Ben 10, The Green Lantern, and The Hulk are joining the Philippine election campaign.

No, 10-year old Ben the Omnitrix will not use his a mysterious alien weapon, Omnitrix, for either Team PNoy or United Nationalist Alliance senatorial candidates.

But who knows if Green Lantern would use the ring that grants him superpowers to fight those who threatens to upset the balance of power in the universe. Or if The Hulk would turn into a green, irradiated, mutated humanoid monster if he meets candidates coddling illegal loggers.

The participation of the emerald-attired superheroes in the election campaign is part of “Berde ka ba?” ---this year’s campaign theme of Greenpeace Philippines’ Green Electoral Initiative (GEI).

Coined from the rising fame of Pinoy rap culture of FlipTop, where contenders outfox each other through witty freestyle verses, “Berde ka ba” activities will include a public debate among senatorial candidates tentatively scheduled on April 24, 10 a.m., at the Leong Hall of the Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City.

“We plan to invite senatorial candidates who have environmental track records, or those who have anything to say regarding our 10-point legislative agenda survey that covers issues on chemical pollution and consumer safety, solid waste, sustainable agriculture and genetic engineering, climate change adaptation, oceans, mining,” said Therese Salvador, media team leader of Greenpeace Southeast Asia – Philippines.

According to Salvador, the candidates will be asked questions related to these topics “from a distinguished panel, from the audience, and from social media queries.”

Photo from Greenpeace Philippines

Conducted during election year, the GEI was launched in 2007 by Greenpeace in partnership with EcoWaste Coaltion. This year, the GEI is being made possible through the partnership of Greenpeace, EcoWaste, and Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives with the Ateneo School of Government.

“GEI aims to ensure that the right of Filipinos to ‘a balanced and healthful ecology’ is upheld and safeguarded,” Salvador explained.

Greenpeace Philippines mainly promotes and supports public engagements that raise debates on why Filipinos should be concerned about the environment – and why getting involved now is important.

“We hope that the dedication, passion, youthful energy, and creativity coupled with scientifically-sound arguments will serve as inspiration that would change behaviors of individuals, governments, business and communities in order to save what is left of this earth and allow her to heal,” Greenpeace said.

Greenpeace has been committed to defending the naturally blessed and bio-diverse environment of Southeast Asia since 1994.

Established in 2000 in the Philippines, Greenpeace has paved the way for the passage of The Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 (and other landmark environmental laws) that included an unprecedented national ban against garbage incineration.

The earth-friendly society also significantly contributed to the launch of the electric-powered jeepney (or eJeepney) project in 2007.

Greenpeace Philippines’ “avocado advocates” are currently working on putting an end to the use of dirty fossil fuels, like coal, which contributes to climate change in the country.

They also help save oceans and seas by continuously lobbying the government for a stronger enforcement of laws to protect the country’s marine environment.

The “olive warriors” of Greenpeace are tasked with helping eliminate cancer-causing chemicals from the Filipino’s daily lives, including those hidden in gadgets and everyday clothing.

Agriculture-wise, they also take part in fighting against the commercialization of genetically-modified organisms.

With a number of virtual means by which Filipinos can contribute to Greenpeace Philippines’ ecological campaigns, pledging donations and becoming a volunteer are just a couple of clicks away on their website.

The group makes social networking relevant through its “donate one tweet a day” program, where Twitter users can simply link their accounts to JustCause.org and automatic donations are made every time a message is posted.

Greenpeace Philippines also participates on a global scale, particularly to protect and rescue the Arctic region --- a threatened part of the Earth due to climate change, drilling explorations, and industrial fishing.

“Eyes on the Arctic,” the largest participatory art project in the world to date, employs hundreds of portraits, each “looking up and thinking about the magic and mystery of the far North,” to create a unique piece of art at the North Pole.

Also this month, the rangers of Greenpeace International will mount an epic trip to the North Pole, as part of its Arctic campaign.

Whether locally or globally, Greenpeace makes all ways possible for an individual to actively participate in saving the world – one green piece of action at a time.

Missus Pussylove or: How I Learned to Start Purring and Lure the Cat

"a catatonic catwoman,
a catastrophe!"
As far back as I can remember, I wasn't really fascinated with cats as a kid. But if obsessing over Hello Kitty during elementary until high school (and knowing that her birthday is the same as All Saints' Day) is considered as a crazy catlady syndrome, then I guess I have always been in love with the feline family since time immemorial.

The first pussy that I came to be attached with was Bogart. He was not the cute and cuddly type, though. He was as stiff as a stoned stoner and smelled of eau de formalin. As a pre-med student, I dissected him inside-out for my anatomy and physiology laboratory class. Even though Bogart was a cold cadaver, I knew him very well: from his integumentary system to his brain and spinal cord.

Me in my catspectacles & with Milky Moo
If I pursued my medical career, I probably would have been a cat doctor; I swear. A felinologist. A catherapist. A pussysian.

But I didn't.

Fast-forward to now, I've never realized how much of a sucker I am for cats until I seriously wanted to change my real name into Caterin, until I found myself googling "how come cats like fish but hate water" and "how old can cats take a bath / get pregnant," until I found calling out to and counting all the stray cats I see on the way home (or anywhere!) as a newfound hobby, and, most especially, until I came up with a list of "reasons why I should be a cat in my next lifetime or why I should've been one in the present."

I can't help it. I'm cat-whipped!

In lieu of my catwomanhood, I wrote the names of cats I have and had and, surprisingly, I'm already at a 2-digit count.

Here's a list of my cat loves:

#1 ROMEO 
(stray Whitey cat, male)

Romeo was my very first -legit- cat. My uncle found him in our village in Pasig and brought Romeo to me all the way to Estrella, Makati (I used to live with my sister family there). He had an all-white coat and a pair of majestic blue eyes. I named him after our village's name, Marietta Romeo (and because it sounded a lot nicer than Mario).

After 3 or so weeks, Romeo ran away and I was left heartbroken. A few months after his untimely and voluntary exit, I remember seeing a cat that looked very much like him that just roamed around our 'hood. But he never responded to my cat-calls. I knew then that I had to let Romeo go.

Romeo, 2007


#2 LUCIO
(Siamese cat, male)

I got Lucio through scouring Buy and Sell ads, just around a month after Romeo chose the filthy streets over my loving arms. Lucio (whom I also called Lucy, Lucy baby, Lucy Fern, or Lucy in the sky with diamonds) was a darling of all sorts.

Although Lucio used to be feeble, he grew to be a furry fatso. He usually slept with me on my bed. I couldn't remember him being naughty. He was very, very sweet. Sadly, when he was around 33 human years old (via), Lucio became sickly again. He started losing weight and became really ill that even medications couldn't save him.

Lucio passed away a few days after my 25th birthday. We buried him beside our artesian well. My heart still aches whenever I remember him. He will always be my sweetheart baby boy cat. I love you forever, Lucio!

Lucio, 2007

Lucio, 2011


#3 unnamed 
(stray Tuxedo-Cowcat, female)

I was digging the old photographs in my hard drive when I found this cute baby. She was all-clingy and crept against my legs when I found her somewhere in Riverbanks. If I didn't see that Lucio had a picture with her, I wouldn't realize that I actually took the kitty home.

I honestly do not know what happened to her. I was staying at a dormitory in Manila at that time and I couldn't bring a pet with me. It's possible that she died because she was really thin and sickly when I got her. I never had the chance to name her and that makes me sad. She could've been my first female kitty.

unnamed, 2009

unnamed, 2009


#3 BRUCE 
(stray Tuxedo cat, male)

A few months after Lucio's heart-wrenching demise, Bruce became my next baby boy. Denise, a friend and a former work-mate, found Bruce, who was maybe only a month young then, near our office in Makati. She brought Bruce inside our workplace, where everyone was crazy for cats, and since I recently lost Lucio, she let me adopt the motherless kitty.

We named him Bruce because his face looks like Batman's mask, as in Bruce Wayne. Also, that was the time when I was gaga for Bruce Lee, so that sealed the deal.

Bruce is now a macho tomcat! But is still super sweet. His black and white coat looks very gorgeous, too! He still kneads his favorite ladybug pillow from time to time -- if he's not busy occupying more than half of my bed.

Bruce, 2012 (left) & 2013 (right)

Bruce & co., 2013


#4 BURTON 
(stray Basement cat, male)

A few days after I adopted Bruce, a pack of 3 adorable kittens were found near our office again. One of them was all black (with all blue eyes!) and I got dibs on the critter without much ado. I named him Burton after one of my favorite filmmakers. And I brought him home to meet Bruce.

They instantly became friends. No lousy hissings or messy territorial pissings. Bruce and Burton were adorable together. I used to bring the two of them to the office alternately because I only commuted and I only had a tote bag to bring one of them along. Burton was the cry baby so I usually took Bruce with me.

However, I had to let go of Burton because of my trip to Seoul. Shinji adopted him and renamed him Tulfo. I haven't seen Tulfo ever since I came back from South Korea, even though I've gone to Shinji's house a number of times. Shinji said that Burton has been living with his neighbor's, who has a ladycat caretaker. Well, just as long as he's still alive, then I'm okay with that.

Bruce & Burton, 2012

Burton watching Breaking Bad, 2012


#5 CHUCK
 (stray Cowcat, male)

Chuck was found by the same uncle of mine, who found Romeo. He was charming and I decided to keep him so Bruce will have a playmate - look at them (below) snuggle like swirly babies! Bijan suggested the name Chuck, as in Norris.

However, Chuck only lasted a few days with me. My mother got pissed (for some unknown reason) and decided to throw Chuck away - without letting me know! I just woke up one morning and Chuck's nowhere to be found... I still get frustrated whenever I remember this, Chuck was really something.

Chuck, 2012

Bruce & Chuck, 2012


#6 TOFU
(stray Whitey cat, female)

Tofu is a sweetie pie. Bijan and I first saw her as a very tiny kitty at an empty house next to theirs. She was with a sibling and they were crying for milk and yelping for rescue. We tried catching them through the tall and barbed wire wall, using an old net and some left-over okoy. But we did not succeed.

A few weeks later, during Bijan's sister's birthday, Tofu literally entered their house and, of course, we instantly claimed her as ours. We knew that she was the same white kitten! On the same night, we gave her a bath and fed her some grilled fish... and she's been a sweetheart since then.

Okay, Tofu is not really mine but I like to think that she's one of Bijan and I's conjugal properties, ha-ha. We call her Mr. Uhog and Tufo most of the time. (I initially wanted to name her Django, though!)

Tofu, 2013


#7, #8 MULLET & KEEMPEE 
(stray Cowcats, both male)

Bijan and I adopted Mullet the Baka and Keempee the Lion from our good fellas, Patet and Tomi. Because they have 2 mother cats at home, Flip (the angel) and Chicken (the bitch), they frequently have new-born kittens, which they usually throw them after a month or two. Flip and Chicken gave birth almost at the same time and their babies were so irresistible that I needed to adopt at least one of them. I just had to.

We took 2 cuties home and they are now happily (s)mothered by me, Bijan, and Tofu! Also, we sometimes call them Mollit and Kempi. They're growing big so fast!

Mullet & Keempee, 2013

Tofu & Mullet & Keempee, 2013


#9, #10 JULIO & JULIA 
(Siamese cats, male and female)

I couldn't take Mullet or Keempee from the south to the east so I left them with Bijan. I miss them almost everyday and I constantly hoped that I have new kittens of my own. A few days later, I saw a bunch of Siamese kittens for sale in our village and I simply had to make them mine!

I picked Julio first because I am more attached to male cats and I like to be reminded of my baby Lucio. But Julia had the sweetest face! I never had a female cat so I got her, too. Plus, I'm really excited to be a catgranny one day.

Julio and Julia (names, again, suggested by Bijan) are super inseparable. And I'm lucky because it only took around 3 days of hissing before Bruce started befriending (and licking!) them. I can't wait for the 3 of them to have lots of furry babies. Hooray for animal incest!

Julio & Julia, 2013

Julio & Julia, 2013

Ergo, I presently have 3 furbabies (Bruce, Julio, and Julia) and whenever I'm at Bijan's, I also have 3 (Tofu, Mullet, and Keempee)! AND I WANT MORE! /purr/ /knead/ /forever/

You're Always Her(o)in My Heart

Even though I am all sorts of bathetic and a sucker for silly love songs, I don't have a keen sense of mixing music. But I actually made one a year ago. It was probably my first time to come up with one so I had to make an 8tracks account for it. Of course, it is intended for the beige boy love. Everything's cheesy (by the way, sorry for using the same cardiac image, I told you I suck at this) but hey, feel free to spare a wee while and listen to it below:



Tracklist:

01.  Playground Love - Air
02. Pen and Notebook - Camera Obscura
03. I Know What I Want - Math and Physics Club
04. I Won't Share You - The Morning Benders
05. Girl in Love - Smith Westerns
06. Please Let That Be You - The Rentals
07. Lover of Mine - Beach House
08. Crazy for You - Best Coast
09. I Love You - The Dandy Warhols
10. Hysteric - Yeah Yeah Yeahs
11. Stuck on the Puzzle - Alex Turner
12. Sleep Tonight - Stars
13. Pigeon - Tennis
14. Baby, I Love You - The Ramones
15. To the End - Blur
16. Disasters Are Okay - Letting Up Despite Great Fault

Hopia like it as much as I do!

98B: Reviving Manila through collaborative art

* originally published on When in Manila *

When in Manila digs deeper into the metro’s art scene, as 98B COLLABoratory aims to unite our local artists and revive the places that used to highlight our cities’ beauty and legacy. Read on to know more about how art can save our beloved Manila.

Some of the world’s most riveting authors had strange habits when they wrote their literary masterpieces. John Steinbeck had a lunacy for pencils and used more than 300 in “Grapes of Wrath.” Vladimir Nabokov, the author of “Lolita,” loved soaking in a bath tub as he wrote. Jack Kerouac taped more than a hundred feet of paper for uninterrupted typewriting, which took him around 3 weeks only to complete the draft of “On the Road.”

However, these writers were not the only ones to have the need of satiating their weird methods in order to get their jobs done. All right-brain dominant people, who are scientifically known to be creative, also have to have their own familiar settings so they could become more imaginative and productive.

In Manila today, the places where creative people could connect, converse, and cooperate are lacking. Most artists resort to the comfort of their own lairs and the “just-a-few-clicks-away” luxury of being connected to the Internet. Everyone’s safe zones gradually diminish the importance of being physically and socially interactive.

It works differently with Mark Salvatus. To him, great minds think alike and go best with curious hands. He wanted to address the scarcity of such venues so he opened his residence with support from his close artist friends.

Thus, 98B was born.

Salvatus and the artists who run 98B described it as a “multi-disciplinary art COLLABoratory” that aims to provide a venue where artists, curators, designers, educators, film makers, musicians, performers, researchers, students, writers, and other creative individuals can brainstorm, collaborate, and interact.

Today, 98B holds office at the mezzanine floor of the First United Building, formerly the famous Berg Department Store. Designed by Juan Luna’s son, Andres Luna de San Pedro, the building is celebrating its 85th anniversary this year.

“98B also serves as a community [that has] a kitchen, a library, a network, and a shop,” they said.

Through its various programs, 98B promotes diversity in art expression and art form. It stimulates communication among its collaborators and encourages projects, making art more accessible to the Filipinos.

98B holds bazaars, garage sales, and thrift shops as part of their Future Market program to support artists, craft makers, designers, and even assist hoarders dispose and earn from their stashes of artworks, bags, clothes, stickers, toys, zines, and other pre-loved items.

Recently, 98B resuscitated the fashionable spirit and vibrancy of Escolta, Manila by organizing the first “Saturday Market @ Escolta.”

To revive the old school feel of Escolta— known as Manila’s Queen of the Streets for its best art deco architecture— the bazaar was held at the basement of the First United Building.

In an attempt to renew Escolta’s old character and historical attraction, 98B will launch projects that would unravel its past and nurture its present condition.

“With everyone’s help, we can all help breathe new life to Escolta,” they said.

Currently, the 98B team is working on “Hola! Escolta,” coined from Jane Jacob’s seminal book on urban planning where she stated that, “cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.”

Asked why they chose Escolta, they further explained: “By some twist of fate, an opportunity came before us.  Maybe Escolta chose us.   We have started to grow our roots here and it is an ongoing love affair with the area, the community, and its history.”

Art talks are also held in 98B under their Design and Community program. “TALKS,” a series of presentations, serves as an experimental platform for exchanging and exploring perspectives among artists and the local community.

In “rePORTS,” a newly launched subseries under TALKS, local artists present their experiences in other countries to encourage other creative individuals to share their inspiring stories before, during, and after their trips abroad.

98B also provides a public haven of books, brochures, exhibition catalogues, journals, magazines, posters, recordings, and videos. Aside from the Open Library program, 98B also has a Digital Library that is intended to share an extensive reference to other networks around the world.

“98B aspires to make art more accessible by involving and incorporating different stakeholders towards organically fostering a dynamic creative community,” they said.

One of their biggest projects to date is the first Behance Portfolio Review in the Philippines, which was held last November 2012. The event called for art submissions that incorporated the word “Manila.”

“The participants were given the chance to have their portfolios reviewed by professionals in the field. It was a good opportunity for mentorship and guidance,” they added.

“YokohaManila,” a curated guidebook of Manila, is 98B’s most successful international art collaborations to date. A part of their Residency program, the project is targeted to create a multi-layered cultural exchange where an artist could explore his practice in a different setting.

YokohaManila, in cooperation with the Koganecho Bazaar, uniquely chronicles the month-long stay of Japanese architect Yumiko Ishihara and Japanese artist Jun Homma, together with local artists Con Cabrera and Don Dalmacio, who are also part of the 98B team.

The cultural similarities and differences between the Filipino and Japanese cultures were visually illustrated using flyovers around the metro and, at the same, “metaphorically bridged the two cultures,” they added.

Earlier this year, “FOR THE RECORD,” a dialogue on historiography versus performance, was also organized by 98B. The forum included Jef Carnay, Lena Cobangbang, Boyet Demesa, and Judy Sibayan as panellists, and Eileen Legaspi Ramirez as the moderator.

The 98B team is composed of Mark Salvatus, founder and co-director; Con Cabrera, head of  research and development; Pau Reyes, future market; Vermont Coronel III and Don Dalmacio, design and community; Mik Laborde, communications and finances; Gabriel Villegas, kitchen, IT, and web; Marika Constantino, special projects; and Anjo Bolarda, design studio.

Through 98B’s initiative on re-instilling the value of having places where artists can merge their abilities, Manila’s flourishing art and culture scene is now more conducive to birthing new ideas and continuous learning. Hopefully, more local groups will be inspired to relive old places and turn them again into what they used to be.