AiAi Delas Alas gives up day job to manage own company in US

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Jun 2, 2024 08:24 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• When asked about the name of her company's corporation, AiAi said, "It's still in process because I just met the members of my team."

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AiAi Delas Alas 

Comedienne AiAi Delas Alas has revealed she has resigned from her day job in the US to become the chief operating officer of her corporation.

AiAi's former makeup artist, Marlo Colina, a nurse and businessman in the US, is joining her in her latest venture. He also encouraged AiAi to start her own company. Under the company is Martina's Skincare line, entertainment, and baking.

Marlo recalled how his partnership with AiAi started. "I started out as a makeup artist in 2008. AiAi has been my friend for 12 years. Then I opened the med spa with the skincare line. I encourage her to be a distributor in San Francisco because I've only been doing this business for four years. So I encouraged her to put up a company that also does entertainment, skincare, and baking. She is qualified to become the CEO of her company. Also, her daughter Sophia is the CEO of the company. That's the full story of how AiAi became a partner of Marlo Colina Aesthetics."

When asked about the name of her company's corporation, AiAi said, "It's still in process because I just met the members of my team." 

"I don't just use skin care products because I have psoriasis. I'm afraid of getting injured because you don't know when it will heal. It's okay to get injured on the body but you can't cover the face. So I was given a lot of MC skin products. I've been using it for two months and I have no allergies," the comedian said.

On his working relationship with AiAi, Marlo said: "Alam naman natin na when you hire AiAi for an endorsement, hindi lang thousands ang bayad sa kanya kundi millions. She's a superstar at alam naman natin yan. Noong dumating siya sa America, tinatawagan lang niya ako. Sabi niya, need ko ng hair and makeup para sa show niya sa US. Ganun lang. Sinasabi ko sa kanya noon I have new products inaalok ko siya pero sinasabi niya talaga next time na lang. Huwag ko na raw siya alukin. One day, mukhang tinapik na lang siya ni Lord at ginamit niya yung mga MC skincare products. At sinabi niya ito lang daw ang products na talagang nahiyang siya."

AiAi Delas Alas and Marlo Colina

(We know that when you hire AiAi for an endorsement, she is not only paid thousands but millions. She's a superstar and we know that. When she came to America, she just called me and said she needed hair and makeup for her shows in the US. That's all. Then I offered her new products, but she said she was not interested. One day, she used the MC skincare products and said the products were good for her skin.) 

Currently, AiAi said that she is on tour with Marlo, giving beauty talks to the public.

On having her own business in the US, AiAi said: "Hindi ko alam bakit nangyayari ito. Dasal lang talaga and ito siguro ang plano ni Lord sa akin. So let it be. Isa sa advocacy ng MC ay ang pagpapagawa ng simbahan. Kaya siguro dito niya ako nilagat dahil gusto niyang matapos ang Kristong Hari church. Ilang taon ko na yun inaasikaso. Sana matapos ko na siya."

AiAi also mentioned that she is excited to return to the Philippines for showbiz commitments, including the latest season of the popular singing reality show "The Clash."

"Ngayon pa lang nag iisip na ako kung ano ang isusuot ko, kung ano ang gimik ko at kung ano ang gagawin ko sa mga damit ko," said AiAi during a Zoom from the US recently.

AiAi referred to her upcoming stint as a judge on "The Clash" Season 6, which will begin taping in August. "Eto na. Game na uli."

She added: "Ang maganda kasi sa 'The Clash,' every season, marami siyang twist para sa mga manonood at surprisingly, para sa amin (judges)."

AiAi said she's returning to the Philippines to attend her youngest child's graduation.

"Ga-graduate yung anak kong bunso si Andrei. And then after niyan, pupunta ako sa Japan dahil may show ako sa June 15 and 16. And then sa August because of The Clash," she said.

AiAi said her schedule is being arranged so that she could appear in some of the Kapuso series. "Sana Makapag-guest ako sa 'Abot Kamay na Pangarap.' "

On her husband Gerald, AiAi said: "Okay naman siya. Working dito sa US. Super kayod pero happy naman siya. Kung makuha niya yung green card, diyan kami mag-Papasko sa Pilipinas. Gusto rin niya maging professional pickleball player."

What are typical traits of Filipinos?

Conrad

Solution Engineer

B.A in Mechanical Engineering, Visayas State UniversityGraduated 2019

Lives in The Philippines1998–present

I am Filipino and I will not answer this question with the all too familiar “they are hardworking, creative, fun loving, lazy people, etc” which has become at the very least too clichè, because these traits can be attributed to external factors like the economy, quality of life, and social status. Which has little or no influence on the more intrinsic traits of a typical Filipino

So what are the typical traits my countrymen could have? Here are a few examples (Hopefully you will get a clearer picture of the average Filipino)

1. “Mano Po” - Our way of greeting our elders. It is done by putting their hand gently on our foreheads. It is basically a sign of respect. No one else on the planet does that so that makes it a unique trait.
2. Family Oriented - If you marry a Filipino/Filipina, You will have a very high chance of getting a whole battalion of new ‘relatives’. Attributed to our ancestors who are already clan oriented before the Spanish came.
3. Being Partly Spanish - We are the Spain of the Orient. Spanish Architecture, Spanish Words mixed in with our dialect,Spanish surnames, Spanish influenced cuisine, being Catholic (excluding our Muslim Brothers who comprise 5% of the population), etc. I mean where else can you find numerous oriental looking men named Gonzalez, Jose, Juan, etc.
4. Being Partly American - After the Spanish, came the Americans. They brought with them their love for burgers, hot dogs and most importantly their language. We are arguably the most fluent English Speakers in the Eastern Hemisphere.
5. Being Partly American-Spanish - So its a mix. One good example is the names. Leo Valdez, Russel De La Cerna, etc.
6. Having an openness vibe - Being colonized for hundreds of years makes us more trusting and friendlier to foreigners especially those from the west. So much so that most of us think that working in the west provides better opportunities, in turn creating a worldly people (Filipinos being among the worlds largest diasporas).
7. Socially Conscious - Being in a family oriented culture makes us be more dependent on what others see us especially to our social circles.
8. Old Meets Modern - Most are very religious and conservative people and very dependent on social media. An attribute to being Family Oriented and Socially Conscious.

Being Filipino is like being in a melting pot of cultures derived from hundreds of years of colonization and ‘westernization’ and before that a society more akin to our Malay brothers in Southeast Asia. These traits are essentially a combination of East and West.

 

EU-PH diplomatic relations in multi-media exhibit

BY MANILA BULLETIN

May 31, 2024 04:01 PM

  

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The multi-media exhibition “Shared Journey: 60 Years of EU-PH Diplomatic Relations” is ongoing at the Yuchengco Museum, RCBC Plaza, Makati City.

Ambassador Luc Veron together with DFA Undersecretary Eduardo Jose A. De Vega, and Yuchengco Museum Executive Director and Curator Jeannie Javelosa during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The exhibition is a walkthrough of the rich history of the European Union (EU) and the Philippines since the first presentation of credentials by Philippine Ambassador Vicente I.
Singian to the European Commission in 1964. Ambassador Singian was the first Head of the Philippine Mission to the EU in 1964. The EU delegation to the Philippines was officially opened on May 15, 1991.

Ambassador Luc Veron, Ambassador Marco Clemente of the Embassy of Italy, and Ambassador Álvaro Domingo Jara Bucarey of the Embassy of Chile

The exhibition uses images, videography, objects, games, and puzzles to chronicle the friendship and partnership between the EU and the Philippines over the last six decades.

Deputy Head of Mission Mohd Fareed Zakaria of Malaysia Embassy with EU Deputy Head Dr. Anna Isabel Sanchez Ruiz

Ambassador Luc Veron with Rémy Tirouttouvarayane with French Deputy Chief of Mission in the Philippines

Manila Bulletin’s Barbie Atienza with Ambassador Dr. Titanilla Tóth of the Embassy of Hungary

Business Mirror’s Lyn Resurrecion, EU Embassy’s Thelma Gecolea, Ateneo de Manila University’s Luz Rimban, and Veronica Uy Vitug

Book author and entrepreneur Brian Llamanzares with Ambassador Luc Veron

Usec. De Vega extends a welcome handshake to Justice Raoul Victorino.

Amid bashing, Barbie Imperial shares coolest reaction

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Jun 1, 2024 11:00 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Barbie, who has eight million followers on Instagram, stayed calm amid the negative comments on social media.

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Barbie Imperial (Instagram)

Following rumors that Barbie Imperial was in a relationship with Richard Gutierrez, the actress received mixed reactions from netizens.

Barbie was accused of being the third party in the split of Richard Gutierrez and Sarah Lahbati. She was even called a homewrecker and mistress in the comment section of her posts. However, her supporters defended her from the allegations.

In the latest vlog of entertainment columnist Ogie Diaz uploaded on YouTube on May 31, a credible source came forward to clarify that Barbie had no involvement in Richard and Sarah's breakup, dispelling the rumors that had been circulating.

The source claimed that Barbie entered Richard's life after the couple had already separated.

Barbie, who has eight million followers on Instagram, stayed calm amid the negative comments on social media.

On May 31, Mavx Productions released the latest poster for Barbie's upcoming movie, "Whispers In The Wind." 

In the middle of bashing, Barbie wrote: "LET'SSS GOOOOO" in capital letters. 

Apparently, her comment was in reaction to her upcoming movie "Whispers In The Wind," which also stars Carlo Aquino, Kakai Bautista, and Gian Magdangal. It is directed by RC Delos Reyes.

Fans showed their support for Barbie in her latest movie.

Ogie said in his latest vlog that Barbie and Richard were exclusively dating.

Senate report on divorce bill gains support from senators

 

Delon Porcalla - Philstar.com

May 31, 2024 | 9:06am

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Loren Legarda on Thursday expressed openness to legalize divorce after signing the committee report of the Senate version of the divorce bill.

At a press briefing, the former Senate president pro tempore said she signed the committee report on the proposed “Dissolution of Marriage Act” that hurdled the Senate women, children, family relations and gender equality panel last year.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros was the main proponent of the Senate version of the divorce bill. Backers of the measure include Sens. Robin Padilla, Grace Poe, Imee Marcos, Pia Cayetano and Raffy Tulfo.

Hontiveros, Poe, Cayetano, Marcos, Tulfo and Padilla and JV Ejercito also signed the report.

Poe and Cayetano said they signed the report to propose amendments during interpellation at the plenary.

Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III also signed the report with the intention to interpellate.

“My signature implies that I want it discussed because it might be the right time for divorce, that it could be a way to help both abused women and men,” Legarda said

“The version of the bill should also be open, acceptable, and accessible to poor families who could not afford a lawyer. Maybe it is time to address the financial and economic cost of divorce,” she added.

Ejercito said he signed the report even though he is still considering his stand. He earlier said he was leaning toward favoring divorce.

Senate President Francis Escudero earlier explained that he opposed the House version of divorce as it lacked a provision allowing the Public Attorney’s Office to take on divorce cases for indigent clients. —  Marc Jayson Cayabyab, Janvic Mateo

This is nature’s most versatile herb

Understanding the health benefits of dandelion

BY DR. KAYCEE REYES

  

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Overlooked by many as a mere weed, the dandelion is gaining recognition for its remarkable health benefits. As Filipinos increasingly seek natural alternatives for health and wellness, dandelions offer a wealth of nutrients and medicinal properties worth exploring.

1. A natural detoxifier

Dandelion root is celebrated for its detoxifying effects, particularly for the liver. Traditional Chinese medicine and Native American healers have used it to promote liver health and treat liver diseases for centuries. Modern research supports these ancient practices, indicating that dandelion root can help detoxify the liver, reduce liver inflammation, and improve its function. This makes it an essential herb for anyone looking to enhance their body’s natural detoxification processes. 

Image by Pixabay

 

2.  Rich in nutrients

Nutritionally, dandelion root is a treasure trove. It contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The root is also a good source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. This rich nutrient profile contributes to overall well-being and can support various bodily functions, from bone health to immune support.

3.  Supports digestive health

Dandelion root’s role in digestive health is multi-faceted. As a natural diuretic, it helps promote the elimination of waste and excess water from the body. Additionally, it stimulates appetite and aids in digestion by increasing bile production. This bile production is crucial for breaking down fats, improving nutrient absorption, and preventing issues such as bloating and constipation.

Image by Pixabay

4.  Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties

The root is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Chronic inflammation is a root cause of numerous health ailments, including cardiovascular diseases and autoimmune disorders. The antioxidants present in dandelion root, such as polyphenols, help neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. This can play a significant role in preventing and managing chronic diseases.

5.  Blood sugar management

For those managing diabetes or concerned about blood sugar levels, dandelion root could be beneficial. Some studies have shown that compounds in the root help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. This makes it a potentially valuable natural remedy for managing diabetes and preventing diabetic complications.

6.  Boosts immune system 

Compounds like polysaccharides found in dandelion root also have immune-boosting effects. They help enhance the body’s ability to fend off infections and diseases by supporting the immune system. This makes dandelion root a valuable addition to the diet, particularly during times when immune support is essential.

Dandelion root can be consumed in various forms, including teas, capsules, and tinctures. When incorporating it into your routine, it’s essential to source it from reputable suppliers to ensure its purity and potency. As with any supplement, it’s also advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

As the health-conscious trend continues to rise in the Philippines, exploring the benefits of dandelion root can offer an accessible and natural way to enhance well-being. From supporting liver and digestive health to managing blood sugar levels and boosting the immune system, this unassuming root deserves a place in our health regimen. As we continue to explore and validate its benefits, dandelion root stands as a testament to the remarkable healing power of nature.

Style Weekend: Ziv Rei Alexi on designing pieces inspired by unexpected and mundane sources

The emerging design house showcases the raw, authentic, and imperfect side of Filipino heritage, one collection at a time.

BY JOHN LEGASPI

May 31, 2024 10:48 AM

  

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If you ask Ziv Rei Alexi then, he never saw himself as a fashion designer. The idea only came to him during a school fair. Sure, he loved dressing up, but the idea of pursuing a career in the industry wasn’t part of his plan. Now, he couldn’t imagine himself doing something different.

“My decision to study fashion is somewhat an impulsive choice. I hadn't originally planned to pursue design but I feel like I just had to do it,” the designer tells Style Weekend.

A piece from Ziv Rei Alexi's “Sorry Mommy, Rakerz Ako” collection fronts Style Weekend's May 31, 2024 cover

Born in Cavite, Ziv, 23, entered the fashion industry during the pandemic-new normal milieu. While it may seem to be a challenge for a young designer to start a business during that period, he confessed that he enjoyed the quiet moments of the times—getting in touch with his inner thoughts and freely creating pieces whether it is during the witching hours or the light of day.

For Ziv, his design house is more than just a brand. It aims to represent the different side of Philippine lifestyle and heritage, its rawness and imperfections. He designs with intention, aiming to mirror what the Philippines is today with his creation.

Inside Ziv Rei Alexi's studio in Escolta, Manila City

“Everything we do in Ziv Rei Alexi is mostly based on intuition, feel, our pinoy heritage and in the most mundane things,” Ziv muses. “We just rock and roll all the way.”

This can be seen in his first collection, a graduation line he prepared as a Fashion Design and Merchandising student at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. Dubbed “Sigaw na Pabulong,” the collection centered on “one’s desire for independence,” interpreted through pieces made of Mikado silk, Duchess satin, gazar, and Japanese cotton.

Fabric manipulation and textile finishing treatments play a big part in his design process. For his second collection “Pikitmata,” he explored a technique that showcases a crackle finish with the use of modeling paste, mirroring the effect of broken cement. There’s also the Sinandomeng duster, a loose fitting garb made with pearl embellishments made to look like a slashed rice sack. In this collection he also reimagined the Philippines traditional pieces like the barong. The piece, which is usually made of delicate piña cloth, got a rebellious twist with plaid and other textiles adorned with soda bottle caps.

A closer look at the textures and fold of the designer's creations

His latest collection puts the spotlight on the local punk scene. Inspired by a song by band Kamikazee, “Sorry Mommy, Rakerz Ako” collection details encapsulates the techniques the designer has done throughout his first years of designing—tailoring with frayed edges, crackled textures on elegant garbs, pearl encrusted pieces, and more, all in all, creating a wild, spontaneous, and unapologetic pieces.

“Like many other designers, we aim to help cultivate our ever-growing industry and culture, while standing for codes that go far beyond aesthetics.”

Pieces from Ziv's "Sorry Mommy, Rakerz Ako” collection

Currently, Ziv is exploring new techniques that are suitable for bodies of all shapes and sizes. He proudly presented to the Style Weekend team a piece with faux leather strips laid on a nude neoprene base, which was inspired by body dysmorphia and stretch marks. The pieces mold itself to the wearer’s body, creating lines of varying width, guaranteeing a new look and shape depending on who is wearing it.

When asked about today’s fashion scene, Ziv jokingly described it as all over the place. “There are so many categories in Filipino fashion. There’s the traditional, pageant, and more,” he explains. “We try to find a way to merge them all together.”

Ziv Rei Alexi’s atelier is located at 300A inside First United Building in Escolta. For custom orders, inquiries, and appointments, visit @zivreialexi on Instagram or send an email to zivreialexi@gmail.com.

Hello, readers! Do you have a story you want us to feature? You can reach us via styleweekendph@gmail.com or on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok.

Patients in Davao receive medical assistance from the Cayetanos

PRESS RELEASE

May 31, 2024

 Mel Ramos, a resident of Davao City, has been facing a battle trying to cover his wife’s medical expenses due to a troublesome lump on her nose. Struggling with limited resources and barely making ends meet, Ramos couldn't hide his gratitude after receiving much-needed medical assistance from Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano earlier this week.

“Malaking tulong po ito sa aming mga nangangailangan. Pang dagdag po ito sa bill namin sa ospital,” Ramos said.

“Sana po marami pang ganito sa Mindanao dahil kami po ay napag-iiwanan na ng assistance,” he added.

 The sibling senators extended help to a total of 628 patients at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao City, including cancer patients, those suffering from respiratory diseases, and pregnant women.

The two-day “Tulong-Medikal Caravan” held on May 27 to 28, 2024, was conducted in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH) under the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) Program, and in partnership with SPMC led by its head of clinics Dr. Fitzgerald Arancel and Medical Center Chief Dr. Ricardo Audan. 

“The arrival of this medical caravan is a blessing for our patients. Our indigent patients need the assistance,” Dr. Arancel said.

“Marami kaming pasyente dito na hirap na makabayad. We can never thank you enough,” he added.

Marking its 26th caravan this year, the Tulong-Medikal caravan also reached beneficiaries from other areas like Cotabato, Kidapawan, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, and General Santos.

Many of the beneficiaries were receiving treatment for chronic kidney disease, hypertension, orthopedic-related issues, and animal bites. 

They were provided with a range of free medical services such as check-ups, laboratory tests, dialysis, and various medical procedures. Additionally, the program helped them ease their medical expenses.

The Cayetanos’ Tulong-Medikal caravan sets up medical help desks at different hospitals nationwide to assist underprivileged Filipinos with their medical expenses. 

As healthcare advocates, the Tulong-Medikal caravan stands as one of the senators’ many initiatives aimed at providing accessible and quality healthcare for all Filipinos, ensuring that no one is left behind in their time of need.###