Bringing the best of what the Philippines has to offer

Tourism Promotion Board Philippines participates at IBTM World 2024 in Spain

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Dec 17, 2024 10:22 PM 

AT A GLANCE

• The Philippines continues to rise as a fast-growing economy and an attractive destination for global business events.

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TAKING THE LEAD The Philippine delegation at the IBTM World 2024, featuring representatives from the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, The Manila Hotel, Blue Horizons Travel and Tours, Inc., Uni Orient Travel, Inc., and Travelite DMC Philippines

 

Showcasing the best of what the Philippines has to offer as an ideal Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (M.I.C.E.) destination, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines participated in IBTM World 2024 from Nov. 19 to 21 at Fira Barcelona Gran Via, which yielded 203 million sales leads. 

IBTM World is one of the leading global M.I.C.E. events held annually in Barcelona, Spain. The event brings together M.I.C.E. professionals from around the world, including event organizers, suppliers, M.I.C.E. practitioners to connect, network, and do business.

 

This prestigious global M.I.C.E. event provided an unparalleled platform for the Philippines to highlight its world-class offerings and exceptional delegate experiences. 

IBTM World features exhibitors that showcase destinations, venues, and services for hosting events. Pre-scheduled appointments are also facilitated between buyers and seller participants to discuss possible partnerships and event opportunities. There were also thought-leadership panels, workshops, and discussions on industry trends, innovations, and best practices for the delegates to learn from.

 

Led by the Office of the Deputy Chief Operating Officer for Marketing and Promotions acting head Teresita D.L. Landan, the TPB also spearheaded initiatives to promote the country’s M.I.C.E. capabilities, including a hosted breakfast for over 100 international buyers and media attendees. Delegates were treated to Filipino dishes arroz caldo and lumpiang shanghai and Filipino delicacies like banana chips, polvoron, and dried mangoes.

 

 

 “Our mission is to establish the Philippines as a premier M.I.C.E. destination where global events thrive, supported by our world-renowned Filipino hospitality,” emphasizes TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles through a pre-recorded message. During the hosted event, the TPB also unveiled the banner program “M.I.C.E. Philippines: We Take Your Business to Heart.” 

 

MAKING CONNECTIONS Travelite DMC Philippines general manager Matt Poonin during one of the B2B appointments with an M.I.C.E. buyer

 

A robust and growing M.I.C.E. destination

The Philippines continues to rise as a fast-growing economy and an attractive destination for global business events. With its strategic location in Asia, English-speaking workforce, and state-of-the-art venues, the country offers unmatched opportunities for hosting events of all sizes. Plus, with its distinct blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage, the Philippines caters to delegates seeking memorable workation activities.

 

The Philippines at IBTM World 2024

The TPB delegation, which included four co-exhibitors from the Philippines, engaged in business-to-business meetings with international stakeholders during the three-day event. These interactions generated over 200 million in projected sales leads, reinforcing the Philippines’ growing prominence as a competitive M.I.C.E. hub.

 

The four co-exhibitors are The Manila Hotel, represented by vice president for sales and marketing Marvin Kim Tan, Blue Horizons Travel and Tours, Inc. group director of marketing Margarita Patricia Valdes, Travelite DMC Philippines general manager Matt Poonin, and UniOrient Travel and Tours vice president for product and business development Wilson Technico.

 

TALKING ASSETS Blue Horizons Travel and Tours, Inc. group director of marketing Margarita Patricia Valdes discusses with an M.I.C.E. buyer what the Philippines can offer.

 

Commitment to excellence

Through its participation at IBTM World 2024, the TPB demonstrated its unwavering commitment to strengthening the Philippines’ presence on the global M.I.C.E. stage. With the support of strong government-private partnerships, the Philippines is ready to welcome international events, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange. The Philippines invites the world to experience where business meets heart, promising exceptional hospitality, unique experiences, and a destination unlike any other.

McKinley Hill’s iconic Grand Christmas Parade

Get ready for the return of Metro Manila’s one and only holiday parade spectacle

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Dec 10, 2024 01:09 PM 

McKinley Hill’s iconic Grand Christmas Parade will once again light up the streets, bringing back the joy and wonder of the holiday season in one of Metro Manila's most anticipated celebrations this December 14. The beloved event made its grand return last year after a short hiatus, and it promises to deliver an even grander spectacle this time around.

The Grand Christmas Parade is the only one of its kind in the metro, and has become the signature celebration for the McKinley Hill community, uniting families and visitors for a magical experience at the most romantic mall in the country.

McKinley Hill's Grand Christmas Parade draws inspiration from the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, epitomizing the grandeur of holiday parades worldwide. Guests can expect a captivating display of holiday cheer, featuring 15 larger-than-life floats, towering 25-foot character balloons, and a dazzling array of over 1,000 street performers who brought the festive spirit to life. Last year, it drew thousands of attendees, all eager to witness the magic unfold in McKinley Hill in its grand return. 

The festive spectacle was met with widespread excitement as families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts from all over the metro gathered to take part in this unparalleled celebration. This year, visitors can once again experience the familiar grandeur of floats, balloons, performances, and holiday spectacles, now reimagined with the distinct warmth and charm of Filipino Christmas traditions. This celebration puts a spotlight on the joyful and inclusive nature of the holiday season in the Philippines, re-establishing the parade’s position as Metro Manila’s premier Christmas celebration.

Prepare for a season of wonder, joy, and the timeless spirit of the holidays at the one and only Grand Christmas Parade at McKinley Hill.

For more updates on the latest happenings, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call their hotline at 8-462-8888 or follow their social media accounts on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/megaworldlifestylemalls).

A reimagined future for the Philippines

How children envision the Philippines in 2050

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Nov 18, 2024 02:32 PM 

2050: A City Shaped by Nature and Innovation

 

By: Elton John S. Guevarra, 11, Linao Elementary School– Libon, Albay 

In a world transformed by sustainable technology and climate adaptation,this city shows harmony with nature. It is built to withstand environmental challenges, thriving because of green architecture, renewable energy, and advanced climate solutions. This can be a blueprint for future cities facing a warming planet. 

 

Philippines 2050 Imagined

 

By: Ma. Fatima B. Alvero, 15, Trece Martires City NHS Conchu Annex

Humans are maximizing virtual connections through technology, anytime, anywhere, across the country. 

 

Nature’s Blueprint

 

By: Amber Gonzales, 17, Multiple Intelligence International School

This futuristic cityscape showcases the possibilities of a climate-resilient future rooted in nature-based solutions. Wind-resistant spiral buildings, vertical farms, and preserved forests enhance resilience and biodiversity, while renewable energy and clean, fish-filled rivers sustain life in a continuous cycle. Efficient public transport, green infrastructure, and advanced technologies—such as satellites and drones—work together to regularly monitor and map climate conditions. This vision reflects a future that fosters a harmonious way of living—one that works with, rather than against, the environment.

 

What I imagine the classroom will be in 2050 

 

By: Edgardo S.Robles, 17, Escuela Secondaria Senor de Salinas

Robots will assist teachers in each classroom, making learning more effective and interesting. Touch-screen monitors are used in every classroom. Students are allowed to study at their own pace, with flexible schedules. Education in 2050 is adaptive, interactive, and inspiring, preparing students well for the challenges of a rapidly evolving world and equipping them for success.

 

The Learning Curve

 

By: Isabella Uy Epistola, 14, San Beda College Alabang

 

My vision of education in 2050 is borderless learning, whereknowledge flows freely across traditional boundaries. It takes into account three main factors: technology, culture, and arts.

The open path represents the interconnectedness of art and technology, allowing us to understand each other’s cultural heritage and national identity. We see, in the upper portion, how artificial intelligence and other technological advancements slowly take over the work of humans. But it cannot replace us. On the lower portion, we dive into the diverse culture that shapes us into who we are today. In the bottom panel, I wanted to portray my advocacy of helping people learn through the arts.

As an artist, I intend to use my art to inspire other youths to explore their creative potential and contribute to the enrichment of our Filipino culture. 

 

Navigating what lies ahead

By: Princess Petegn Lim, 15, Tupi National High School

 

I am looking forward to what the future may bring if we start rebuilding our present for the future.

 

By: Marygold Lycka E. Padilla, 10, San Fernando City SPED Integrated School 

From Isolation to Inclusion: Beiersdorf Philippines, Watsons, and Plan International Commit to Drive an Empowered Future for Young Women

Renewed partnership launches programs supporting girls’ mental health and career development

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Nov 5, 2024 12:53 PM 

Executives from Beiersdorf Philippines, Watsons, and Plan International renewed their partnership and signed a declaration of support as a continuing commitment to the agenda of accelerating social change for young women. From left: Watsons Group Senior Category Manager, Zyra Tino Obias Plan International Portfolio Manager for Gender Equality and Inclusion, Twyla David Watsons Director for People Innovations Projects, Jose Arriola Beiersdorf Sales Director, Jacques Baisa Watsons SAVP for Marketing Communications, PR & Sustainability, Sharon Decapia Plan International Executive Director, Ana Maria Locsin Beiersdorf Country Manager, Nimisha Jain Plan International Program Director, Cathy Seco Beirsdorf Head of Route to Markets, Josefa Manese

Girls hold the power to shape a brighter, more inclusive future—but far too many are held back by enduring biases and barriers that silence their voices, leave them isolated, and restrict their ability to realize their full potential. As the world celebrates the international Day of the Girl (IDG), there is a rousing call to action to create a world where girls are supported, included, and empowered to dream beyond limits. 

 

Heeding this call, Beiersdorf Philippines, Watsons, and Plan International Pilipinas reaffirmed their partnership to intensify initiatives toward the upliftment of girls in the country.  

Working side by side for two years now, the tripartite collaboration unites the members’ respective focus into a joint agenda charged to accelerate social change for young women. From last year’s programs and discussions about girl’s rights, gender equality, equitable and quality health services and economic resilience, the partnership expands their programs to include pressing concerns on understanding the disempowering impact of social isolation among girls, promoting mental health and wellbeing, as well as creating pathways for career development. 

Beiersdorf Philippines donates ₱1 million for the continuation of Watsons and Punlaan School Apprenticeship Program that aims to equip scholars with skills needed to succeed in the health and beauty retail space. In photo from left: Beiersdorf Country Manager, Nimisha Jain, Watsons SAVP for Marketing Communications, PR & Sustainability, Sharon Decapia, and Punlaan School Director Kai Nabatar.

As a brand that cares beyond skin, NIVEA of Beiersdorf, advocates for an inclusive society and aims to foster social cohesion through its global social mission, NIVEA CONNECT. Addressing the rise of social isolation among young women is critical because loneliness and lack of social connection increase their vulnerability to social injustices and hinder their overall development.

 

Beauty retailer Watsons, on the other hand, aims to inspire holistic wellbeing, positivity and acts of care and kindness towards people, communities, and the planet. Part of its Sustainability goals under the People Pillar are their efforts to provide scholarships and career opportunities for the youth.

Meanwhile, Plan International Pilipinas, a development, humanitarian, child and youth-girl-centered organization working in the Philippines has been at the forefront of advancing children’s rights and equality for girls since 1961. According to Plan International Pilipinas, girls' mental health is one of the core foundations for their success and well-being. By prioritizing self-care and seeking support, they empower themselves to thrive in both their careers and personal lives. Moreover, advocating for girls’ overall wellness is part of its agenda for girls’ rights and empowerment. It encourages them to exercise their rights, prioritize their overall health, and shape their futures.

The panel discussion helped guests understand how social isolation disadvantages girls, what are interventions and solutions needed to stop the stigma, and how communities can create a support system for those in need. In photo from left are Beiersdorf Sales Director, Jacques Baisa, Plan International Portfolio Manager for Gender Equality and Inclusion, Twyla David and Watsons SAVP for Marketing Communications, PR & Sustainability, Sharon Decapia

For their IDG celebration, the three organizations mounted an event entitled “From Isolation to Inclusion: Empowering Girls, Shaping Futures,” that brought various stakeholders delivering learning modules on financial literacy, digital literacy, and career guidance to help girls from Punlaan School prepare for the future of work and navigate livelihood opportunities and professional empowerment. 

 

Beiersdorf Philippines Country Manager Nimisha Jain in her opening remarks said, “NIVEA’s CARE BEYOND SKIN Sustainability Agenda is guiding all our actions across three critical areas: consumer, society and environment, forming a holistic approach. We want to “Care beyond Skin” by empowering women so that they can thrive. She also shared findings from a NIVEA global study on social isolation which revealed that young people between 16-24 (38%), hybrid workers (52%), and heavy social media users (34%) feel the most isolated in society. She explained that breaking the cycle of social isolation entails building connections, fostering community, and having access to mental health resources, which are key components of NIVEA CONNECT.

 

“This partnership today is a perfect example of all three elements coming together. I am confident that with our willing & committed partners, we can make a meaningful impact to empowering young women and transition them from Isolation to Inclusion”

 

For the panel discussion, Beiersdorf Philippines Sales Director Jacques Baisa, Watsons SAVP for Marketing Communications, PR and Sustainability, Sharon Decapia, and Plan International Pilipinas Portfolio Manager for Gender Equality and Inclusion Twyla David dived deep into social isolation - how it has disadvantaged girls for centuries, interventions and solutions needed to stop the stigma, and how communities can create a support system for those in need. 

The event culminated with the turnover of the Php 1 million donation from Beiersdorf Philippines for the continuation of Watsons and Punlaan School Apprenticeship Program where students are trained with a TESDA certified curriculum to gain skills needed to succeed in the health and beauty retail space.  Participants are also assured of a permanent job as Pharmacy Assistants in Watsons after they successfully complete the program.

 

Lastly, the tripartite partnership was renewed in a MOA signing and formal declaration of support, reinforcing the institutions’ continued collaborative efforts. 

In her opening remarks, Beiersdorf Country Manager, Nimisha Jain, discussed that social isolation makes girls all the more vulnerable to injustices thus the company advocates for an inclusive society and aims to foster social cohesion through its global social mission, NIVEA CONNECT

Watsons SAVP Sharon Decapia pointed out, “At Watsons, we understand that our responsibilities go beyond helping people care for their health and bring out their innate beauty. For us to be able to help girls become the best version of themselves, we have to open up avenues for learning and understanding what the future will be like, and what issues can affect them. This is what we have been doing with our partners - we are preparing them to be capable leaders of their families and communities.” 

 

Plan International Pilipinas Executive Director Ana Maria Locsin said, “Today, we stand united with Beiersdorf and Watsons in our shared commitment to transforming the lives of Filipino girls and young women. The theme of this year’s partnership event on social isolation resonates deeply with our mission of advancing children’s rights and equality for girls in the country.” 

 

“Gender equality and inclusion serve as powerful tools for understanding the barriers that prevent girls from accessing quality education, livelihood opportunities, and meaningful participation in decision-making. We firmly believe that when girls are empowered and included, they envision brighter futures for themselves and become catalysts for change, helping shape a world where we are all equal.”

 

For NIVEA, the fight against social isolation goes beyond the Philippines as it looks to set up local NIVEA CONNECT projects with partners in forty countries by 2026. All its efforts are in service of Beiersdorf’s long-term commitment to champion a more inclusive society.

The lost art of heartfelt correspondence

When was the last time you wrote anything by hand, or the last time you read a handwritten letter?

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Nov 1, 2024 08:15 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The slow, thoughtful cadence of letters and the anticipation of hearing a loved one’s voice after a long queue at a telephone company brought with it a unique kind of warmth and connection—one that many feel nostalgic for today. 

Photo from Freepik

By Jacqueline Lucero

In a world increasingly dominated by instant communication, letter writing, phone calls, and even telegrams have drifted into obscurity. Yet, for Filipinos who grew up before the internet and mobile phones, these forms of communication were not just practical. They were woven into the fabric of everyday life. The slow, thoughtful cadence of letters and the anticipation of hearing a loved one’s voice after a long queue at a telephone company brought with it a unique kind of warmth and connection—one that many feel nostalgic for today.

Reflecting on those times brings back vivid memories of the many ways families kept in touch across provinces and islands. In rural areas or distant provinces, where the Philippines’ extensive island geography could make in-person visits rare, families would often rely on letters to share news of family events, personal stories, or milestones. The process of writing a letter was both ritualistic and heartfelt, as many would carefully pen down details of their daily lives and seal them with love, knowing their words would take days, sometimes weeks, to reach the recipient. These letters, often signed with careful flourishes or a thumbprint for added sentiment, became treasures, cherished, and read repeatedly. Receiving one meant holding in your hands the weight of someone’s thoughts and affections, a feeling unmatched by digital screens.

Beyond letters, phone calls represented a deeply emotional connection for Filipinos. With the reach of telephone lines still limited at the time, those who wanted to place a long-distance call would have to go to the nearest branch of the telephone company, where they’d wait in line to book an international or provincial call. Many recall the process of waiting for the line to connect, standing anxiously by the receiver in case the call dropped, and savoring the brief moments of conversation as if they were an invaluable luxury. The echoes of laughter and warmth, or the sound of a loved one’s voice, even if crackling over the line, were enough to lift spirits and bring families closer, even from a distance.

Telegram services, though now almost forgotten, also played an essential role in Filipino communication. These short, urgent messages delivered news quickly, often carrying messages of celebration, urgency, or life updates. The brevity required in a telegram added a sense of gravity to every word chosen, making it a powerful way to send love or share important news when other methods might take too long.

These forms of communication created a foundation of patience, anticipation, and deep appreciation. People would wait days, sometimes weeks, for responses, fostering a level of mindfulness that has since been eroded by instant communication. Letters, telegrams, and carefully scheduled calls gave Filipinos the opportunity to pause and reflect, creating bonds that transcended miles and time.

The act of waiting became almost ritualistic in the Philippines, with entire families gathering around for scheduled phone calls, eagerly anticipating the voices of loved ones from afar. Telegrams and letters became carriers of heartfelt emotion, handling both joyful and sorrowful news. When someone received a telegram, it was as if time paused. Each word weighed heavily with meaning, often bringing news that was celebrated or mourned collectively by families and communities alike. There was a unique depth to these modes of communication, something that grew with the time invested and was cherished as a form of continuity in relationships across distances.

For a young woman named Clara, the discovery of a stack of her grandmother’s letters sparked a desire to revive this lost tradition. Inspired by the vulnerability and sincerity in her grandmother’s words, Clara began to reach out to people by letter, reliving the experience of slow, intentional communication. Her project expanded as she found herself writing to people from different walks of life—an artist, a teacher, an elderly neighbor, a young mother—all sharing stories, worries, and dreams in a way that felt deeply personal and lasting. Each letter exchanged became a window into another’s life, far removed from the fleeting nature of social media interactions. These exchanges showed her and others that beyond text messages and emojis, there remained a timeless desire for genuine human connection.

Rediscovering these forms of communication reminds us that, while technology connects us in seconds, it also often leaves us longing for something more substantial. As we reach out through handwritten letters, patiently placed calls, or shared words on a page, we connect with people in a way that feels both intentional and profound. This revival of letter writing and deliberate communication serves as a quiet rebellion against the ephemeral nature of today’s digital age, reminding us that sometimes the best connections are those we take the time to nurture and hold close.

In an age when it’s easy to lose touch amid the fast pace of life, perhaps it’s time we rediscovered the art of heartfelt correspondence.

Amina Aranaz-Alunan’s world of design

The Filipino accessories designer on bringing local pieces to the international stage and shaping the minds of the country’s future design leaders.

BY JOHN LEGASPI

  

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It was the beginning of another semester at SoFA Design Institute when Amina Aranaz-Alunan scheduled an interview with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. Unlike past opening days, this one was particularly special as the staff welcomed students to their new home at The Proscenium Retail Row in Rockwell, Makati City.

Amina Aranaz-Alunan

Compared to its former location on Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, the new space is larger, offering more room for students to interact and bring their visions to life. SoFA Design Institute was established in 2007, and in some ways, the school's building was inspired by Amina’s own journey. Growing up, she knew she wanted to pursue a career in fashion, but at the time, there were no fashion courses or degrees focused on designing clothes.

Together with Loralee Baron-Soong, Amina co-founded the school, which soon gained street credibility as the country's go-to institution for design and fashion.

“When I was in high school, I knew that fashion was my path, but there were no options,” Amina shared. “After attending Marangoni and experiencing what it’s like to live and study in a fashion capital, I felt that the Philippines needed something. It started with a dream that one day Manila would be a fashion capital. Part of that dream was legitimizing fashion education and professionals. Fashion can’t all be self-taught or viewed as just a hobby. That’s what led me to establish SoFA.”

Before becoming the co-founder and president of SoFA Design Institute, Amina was first an accessories designer. With her mother, Becky Aranaz, already in the bag manufacturing business, it was a natural step for Amina to pursue a professional career in fashion. After studying an interdisciplinary course at Ateneo de Manila and gaining formal education in fashion at Istituto Marangoni Milano, Amina set out to establish Aranáz in 1999. Together with her mother and sister Rosanna Aranaz, she aimed to elevate Filipino fashion and bring it to the international stage.

In a conversation with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, Amina reflects on her early days as an accessories designer, the challenges she faced as the leader of her brand, and SoFA’s role in shaping the future design leaders of the Philippines.

Aranáz's latest collection

What inspired you to become an accessories designer?

I would say that I was born into it. My mom had a bag business ever since I was born, and I was always interested in fashion from a very young age. I didn’t proclaim that I would be a fashion designer or an accessories designer, but I was definitely into fashion and the arts.

She had a bag factory and was also interested in fashion, so we were exposed to it early on. One of my activities as a child was playing dress-up with my mom's wardrobe. I remember she had a chest as tall as I was. Every drawer was filled with accessories from the ’80s—big, bold, chunky, and colorful. I would just have fun, opening the drawers and playing around.

What were the initial challenges you faced when you launched Aranáz?

We were blessed that the market embraced the brand. I grew up in a generation that patronized imported brands because there weren’t many local options. Introducing a Filipino brand was a challenge for us. At that time, wearing a handmade Filipino bag was something people typically associated with souvenir shops; it wasn’t viewed as a fashion item. I wanted to challenge that notion. We were pleasantly surprised that the market resonated with our vision. To this day, I would say everyone is proud to support a local brand.

Aranáz's pieces on display at Frensh department store Samaritaine

Was it hard to penetrate the international market?

When we officially started the brand from 1998 to 1999, the dream of making it an international brand was there. We began launching internationally in 2012, which felt like a long time because we didn’t know what to do. Unlike other local brands that made it abroad, we operated in the Philippines and didn’t have offices overseas. One of the main things that helped us was Manila Fame. It became our practice ground.

I was part of a group called Manila Wear, spearheaded by designer Josie Natori. She gathered designers who could eventually export their brands. I also undertook some initiatives on my own, but that practice allowed me to travel abroad for trade shows and connect with agents. Sometimes, I would travel with people from Manila Wear or a group of Filipino designers.

It took time to understand how to create wholesale prices, lookbooks, and line sheets—skills that weren’t taught in school, especially back then. Marangoni didn’t teach me these things because I took a design course. They, however, did teach me about branding, and I worked on Aranáz's branding while I was there.

When was the moment you felt you had finally made it?

It was when we started to seriously bring our brand internationally. My sister and I created a wish list of all the stores where we wanted to see our brand displayed. I can say that we have managed to cross off each store from that list. For us, that’s validation that the handmade Filipino bags we create are worthy of being on the same shelves as the international brands we once looked up to. To be among them is validation.

Our bags are our way of telling the Filipino story to the world. That’s why, if you buy our bags, you’ll see info cards stating, “a piece of Filipino culture in your hands.” One of the hashtags we frequently use is #WithLoveFromThePhilippines. It gives people a glimpse into the tropical Filipino lifestyle.

The newest addition to SoFA's campus

Let’s go back to SoFA. Can you tell us more about the new campus?

It was designed in collaboration with interior design students and faculty, with consultation from interior designers and SoFA board members Ivy and Cynthia Almario. The space is symbolic of the design process—a blank canvas.

When you enter the lobby, you’ll find the Think Tank. As you walk through, you’ll see curves that guide you through the design process, from the research and design lab to the collaboration space. The Collab Cove is one of the new features; it’s a multi-purpose room used for events, fashion shows, and exhibits. We also have a photo studio and workspace for students, along with a lounge for them to relax.

What have you learned from your students?

One of the unique aspects of our teaching at SoFA is our approach to the design process and inspiration. We encourage our students to incorporate their personal stories and perspectives into their designs. That should be the starting point—not something external or disconnected from their own experiences.

When I interact with students, it is on a personal level. Through their work, you can glimpse their innermost selves. The last class I taught was before the pandemic, and those sessions were, in some ways, therapeutic. There were emotions, even tears. They use design as a form of therapy and a tool for empowerment. Through them, I saw how design can be transformative; creative work is not mechanical or soulless. This might be biased, but it is a privilege to be a designer and to be exposed to other designers. It is a profession—a calling—that embodies one’s entire being.

Inside SoFA's new campus in Rockwell, Makati City

What are you most proud of?

I’m proud that I can do what I love. No matter how stressful or overwhelming it gets, I approach everything with love. With Aranáz and SoFA, I have always been guided by my heart. Some might see it as a flaw that I lean toward heart over mind, but I feel that what I do doesn’t feel like work because it is so true to who I am. Design is where I live and where I can always be found. I cannot imagine a life outside of design or what I am doing.