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BANISILAN, Philippines — Less than a four-hour drive from Cagayan de Oro is a quaint little municipality in North Cotabato called Banisilan. From the airport in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental, a first-time visitor will have to pass through Talakag, Bukidnon and Wao, Lanao del Sur to arrive at this agri-production town, which produces corn, palay, rubber, sugar cane and fruit trees. Banisilan derived its name from a fresh-water shell called the Banisil, said to be abundant in this area located at the northern quadrant of Cotabato Province. Its creation as a municipality dated back to the time of President Ramon Magsaysay, who signed Proclamation No. 317 dated July 17, 1956 reserving an area for a resettlement project, which attracted hundreds of landless and qualified citizens coming from all over the country
Photos: Phillip Vallespin
Production Number
Bu’gaya Festival
On February 8, 1982, Batas Pambansa Bilang 141 was approved, thereby creating Banisilan. This year, it is celebrating its 44th Founding Anniversary and the first Bu’gaya Festival. “Bu’gaya Festival is the vibrant cultural celebration of Banisilan, honoring the town’s rich agricultural heritage, cultural diversity, and united community spirit,” said Primo Nemitz Zayas, the festival director. “The word Bu’gaya, common among Maguindanaoans, Ilonggos and the Manobo, is inspired by local heritage and is closely associated with abundance, harvest, and prosperity—reflecting Banisilan’s fertile lands and hardworking farmers.”
More than a celebration, it is a thanksgiving for blessings, a tribute to resilience, and a showcase of Banisilan’s identity as a thriving agricultural town. The inaugural event featured agri-booths, street dancing, video and photo competitions, and concerts among many other festive activities.
Singer Josh Adornado
A major highlight, however, was the fast-paced and exciting Mutya ng Banisilan pageant, which started in 2004 with Faith Joy Carbon as the first winner. From the onset, Zayas (and his Primo events) has been the pageant director while Charlie Villalba is the project director to this day.
From simple barrio lasses, the 24 candidates were transformed into glamorous maidens by Team Nanivon, headed by Nanan Villalba, and his hair and makeup team assembled from Manila, Midsayap (Cotabato), Jasaan (Misamis Oriental) and Cagayan de Oro: Hernane Paniza, Iwa Ajinomoto, Renzin Paran, Brent Raully Olaco, Rodel Panjara, Charlz Manquiquis, and Kleng Totanes.
GLAM TEAM NANIVON
Throughout the competition, the young girls were styled by Style Firm by Zoe Botwin, assisted by Mekaila McLen and Marian Nave Saburao. Nathalie Yap served as stage manager and personality development trainer; Christer Kim as communication skills trainer; and Livestream B Ads for lights, sound and stage design.
The hosts were Elton Ladd and Clarissa Westram, the Miss Universe Philippines Cotabato 2026, with voiceover by Christer Kim. Josh Adornado of GMA’s The Clash serenaded the candidates, while the Sandowa Dose Dance Company, OffLimitz, and Altas Entertainment provided enlivening dance moves. The candidates all wore Primo Design Studio Collection Swimwear, and shoes by Jojo Bragais.
Host Elton Ladd
ANTIPOLO, Philippines — Positioning itself as a space where Philippine heritage meets global perspectives, Museo P. Lhuillier becomes the newest cultural and spiritual landmark in Antipolo City and its environs. Located at Crestview Subdivision in Barangay Cupang, It is set to open to the public anytime soon.
The museum showcases a collection shaped by Ambassador Philippe Jones Lhuillier, the distinguished Filipino diplomat, businessman, and patron of the arts, and his decades of diplomatic service, with religious artifacts, European antiques, and culturally significant memorabilia on display.
He is also currently the Philippine ambassador to Spain and is the honorary chairman of Cebuana Lhuillier. He previously held diplomatic posts in Italy, Albania, San Marino, and Portugal.
The museum is a touching tribute by his children.
“This moment holds a deep meaning for us, not only because this museum bears our family name, but because it stands as a tribute to my father, Ambassador Philip J. Lhuillier,” said Camille Lhuillier-Albani, general manager, Casa de Memoria, during the press launch late last year. “For all my life, my father has been a constant example of service. With humility, faith, integrity, and heart, he built his work not on ambition alone, but on the desire to uplift others and to represent our country with dignity wherever he was called to.”
The museum is said to reflect Ambassador Lhuillier’s diplomatic journey, with several of the pieces having traveled with him through decades of service, from assignments abroad to milestones here in the Philippines, to moments that shaped his family.
“They were not merely acquired, they were lived with. Each carries a story, a teaching, and a memory. What we display here are not simply collections, but reflections of chapters that formed his outlook, his values, and his way of leading with kindness and purpose,” noted Lhuillier-Albani.
When their family began planning the space, the intention was clear: to create something honest and true to who their father is. Each gallery holds a part of his story from the Capilla de Santa Rosa de Lima, representing faith and devotion, to the ambassador's call highlighting his service to our country, to small pieces gathered from his travels that quietly hold significance. Together, they tell the story of a man who built a life rooted not just in accomplishment, but in meaning.
Jean Henri Lhuillier, president and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier, added: “We have this facility that's going to be open to the public. And that's something that the family has always wanted to push. My dad has been in government for over 27 years now. And this is also his way of showing the Filipino people that culture and life are all put in one. And we have this facility here with a museum. And make sure that everybody gets to enjoy this.”
Dr. Gerald Veneracion Monreal had an extensive hand in the museum’s interior design, space planning and visual merchandising. The galleries span religious collections, European antiques and curated memorabilia, with some dating back to the 16th century. It offers an experience that connects Philippine heritage with global influences.
“Many of these pieces have been carefully kept for years. It has long been my hope to make these pieces accessible to the Filipino public. My hope is that Museo P. Lhuillier becomes a place of reflection and discovery, where visitors can connect with stories of faith, heritage and global tradition,” Ambassador Lhuillier shared at the press launch.”
Ambassador Philippe Jones Lhuillier at his namesake museum
MANILA, Philippines — At the sidelights of the grand mediacon for the movie Call Me Mother, an entry to the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival, John “Sweet” Lapus offered words of advice to younger LGBTs who are deeply affected by the HIV crisis.
He also gave his impassioned response to the polarizing statements of LGBT icons, Hair Majesty Mother Ricky Reyes and Philippines Fashion Ambassador to the World Mama Renee Salud, and sent a sweet message to LGBT youth who may have been harmed with these “old-school” opinions.
ON WORLD AIDS DAY
According to the Department of Health, the Philippines has the fastest-growing number of HIV cases in the Asia-Pacific region. By June 2025, at least 57 Filipinos have found out they have HIV, or the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), making individuals more vulnerable to infections and diseases.
The number of new HIV cases, as per the DOH, went up by 550% from 4,400 in 2010 to 29,600 in 2024. Around 252,800 Filipinos are estimated to be living with HIV as of 2025. If HIV is left untreated, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a condition where the immune system is severely damaged.
To reverse the rising trend of HIV cases, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the World Health Organization (WHO) expressed their support to the DOH request for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to sign an executive order that would officially declare HIV a high-priority public health concern, requiring urgent action from all levels of government and society.
In the first quarter of 2025, UNAIDS, WHO and the DOH expressed alarm that a third of newly diagnosed HIV cases are among young Filipinos aged 15 to 24 years. They will need to be on treatment for the rest of their life.
Lapus plays Mama M, the “mother” of Vice Ganda’s character Mother Twinkle, who is a queer who wants to be the “mother” of the biological child of Mara de Jesus (played by Nadine Lustre).
“As we celebrate World AIDS Day, for the nth time, I appeal to the Gen Zs, the millennials, and to the young people out there to please practice safe sex. It is not wrong to be sexually active, but as long as you practice safe sex,” said Lapus, 52. “And you are very lucky that there are so many forms of how to do safe sex. There are condoms, contraceptives, etc. If you can't stop yourself, just be careful, please.”
Lapus continued: “That is really very important. One, AIDS is used as a stigma, so it should not be. It should be part of our daily conversation. It is not something to fear about, but something to be talked about. So, everybody can have it. It is there. So, all you have to do is to accept it, be prepared, and avoid it by making sure that we do safe sex.
“At the end of the day, yes, masarap ang sex. Sino bang hindi nasasarapan sex? But, you know, mas masarap to have sex sa taong mahal mo. So, I think that is really very important as well. To make sure that you make love to someone that you love.”
MANILA, Philippines — GUESS, the global fashion lifestyle leader, marks a defining moment in its international retail story with the grand reopening of its flagship SM Mall of Asia store. The celebration unveiled the latest GUESS store concept, a world-first for the brand, and introduced Andrea Brillantes as the brand’s first local ambassador for GUESS Philippines—two landmark milestones that signal the brand’s elevated vision for the market and its continued investment in the region.
The world-debuting concept store represents the brand’s most advanced retail direction to date. The reimagined GUESS concept store at SM Mall of Asia delivers an immersive retail experience that fuses modern aesthetics, curated merchandising, and interactive elements designed to engage fashion-forward customers. Distinct zones highlight seasonal collections, spotlight local collaborations, and incorporate integrated digital touchpoints for a seamless, inspiring shopping journey. This global-first concept reflects GUESS’s strategic focus on experiential retail and its ambition to set new standards for the fashion landscape worldwide.
“This store represents the future of GUESS,” said Maureen Stamati - Executive Director of GUESS Philippines. “Debuting our first global concept here in Manila shows our confidence in the Filipino market. We’re raising the bar for what customers can expect, from the in-store experience and design to our overall brand energy.”
The event also marked the official introduction of Andrea Brillantes, one of the Philippines’ most influential young talents, as the first-ever local ambassador for GUESS in the country. Confident, contemporary, and culturally resonant, Andrea reflects the next-generation spirit of the brand.
“GUESS has always inspired me to embrace my confidence and femininity,” Andrea said. “Being named their first local ambassador is an honor, and I’m excited to represent a brand that celebrates boldness and individuality.” As the brand’s newest face, Andrea will lead campaigns, headline events, and play a key role in connecting GUESS with Filipino consumers through fresh, youth-driven storytelling.
Guests at the grand reopening were the first to explore the world-debut concept, preview upcoming collections, and experience the elevated design direction that will shape future GUESS stores worldwide. With the launch of this flagship and the introduction of Andrea Brillantes as its first local ambassador, GUESS sets a new standard for customers in the Philippines, offering a more immersive, design-driven, and culturally connected retail experience that reflects the brand’s global vision for the next era of fashion.
Perkin So (SM), Steven Tan (SM), Ferris Siasat (Guess), Andrea Brillantes, Maureen Stamati (Guess), Michael Stamati (Guess)
LOS ANGELES, USA — Early on, Elmer Laron Catungal knew that his hair and makeup artistry was of international caliber. Though he had a thriving career in Manila’s Tinseltown and the local fashion circuit, he dreamed that someday soon he will also be in demand in Hollywood.
So, even with the uncertain climate in the US at the moment, he relocated to California in search of the American Dream.
Catungal has worked for Star Cinema (Love Me Again, One More Chance), ABS-CBN (Lobo) and GMA (Station ID 2008 and Sa Kamay ng Diyos). He counts Kristine Hermosa, whom he worked with in Enteng Kabisote part 2, 3 and 4, as the most beautiful Filipina.
He counts among his influences and inspirations the celebrity makeup artists Jomel Razon, Edwin Aguilar and Alex “Bo” Vicencio. He also admired Gilbert Soliz of Marc Jacobs Beauty, Make Up For Ever founder Dany Sanz and the late great Kevin Aucoin.
Mid-East Memories
“Mahirap ang buhay sa Pilipinas. As a makeup artist, hindi sapat ang kinikita ko para sa pamilya. At para matupad ang pangarap ko na makapunta sa Hollywood, I went to Manama, Bahrain and worked with Sephora,” the breadwinner said.
Part of the LVMH family, the world's leading luxury goods group, Sephora “is a powerful presence in markets around the world, constantly transforming and elevating the beauty shopping experience.”
Catungal worked for the prestige brand from March 2009 to April 2022 as the territory's brand senior makeup artist.
“I was responsible for giving professional beauty-consultation advice that will secure the client's loyalty and delivering the highest standard of customer service that ensures guaranteed customer satisfaction,” recalled the Mandaluyong City-born and Makati-raised Catungal.
“My period of time working with Sephora was so hard in the beginning as it was my first time working in retail. I began learning new things with makeup, skincare and fragrances.”
In between was a stint at Marc Jacobs Beauty in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from June 2014 to February 2016, assisting clients achieve their desired looks for everyday wear and special occasions by creating ideal makeup strategies.
“I also generated additional revenue by up-selling complementary products using friendly sales tactics and product knowledge and held consultation with clients to learn about their desired outcome and to assess their skin type and facial structure,” the Jose Rizal University computer science graduate said.
Paris is Always a Good Idea
To further improve his makeup skills, Catungal joined competitions. In 2012, he was a finalist at the Sephora/Dior Makeup Master for the Middle East. He placed second at the Sephora/Chanel Makeup Master for the Middle East in 2013. He was the champion in the Sephora Beauty Masters for the Middle East in 2016.
In 2017, he was awarded a Sephora One Year Development Program in Paris, France, and given a senior makeup artist certification.
“While in Paris, I learned that to become a strong communicator, I need to be self-confident and trust myself, and that I have to be a good listener and be like a ‘sponge’ to absorb all the information whether it is good or bad,” he shared.
BAGUIO, Philippines — When you feel nostalgic for the bygone days of Baguio, when it wasn’t bursting with tourists and became an urban blur, there’s a new destination for you.
Tucked 1,400 meters above sea level within the posh Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges is a rustic countryside sanctuary called the Balesin Pines. Tranquil and exclusive, it offers breathtaking vistas of the mountain ranges of the Cordillera.
Just 17 minutes from Baguio City via the scenic Ambuklao Road, Balesin Pines features 18 sumptuous one-bedroom suites and two signature restaurants: Yum Cha, which serves Asian cuisine, and La Réserve, which offers continental fare.
“Balesin Pines is one of the properties that is part of Balesin Key, a membership that unlocks three properties,” explained Joanna Ongpin-Duarte, the Balesin spokesperson. “As a member, you have access to three properties, namely, Balesin Island, Balesin City, and Balesin Pines. You have eight free villa nights that you can use in any of the properties.”
Balesin Key is the only private membership in the Philippines that offers a comprehensive luxury lifestyle across three exclusive destinations: Balesin Island – a private tropical escape off the coast of Quezon Province; Balesin City (formerly The City Club) – a hub for modern work-life balance in Makati; and Balesin Pines – a serene mountain retreat in Baguio.
Balesin Pines guests can also enjoy the broader amenities of Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges such as The Clubhouse Inn, which features eight cozy rooms, a grand fireplace, a restaurant (indoor and al fresco), lounging areas, and a karaoke room; a 1.2-kilometer hiking trail, with seasonal closures during rainy months, where guests can spot coffee plants and sapinit (Philippine wild raspberry); a mini sports center with a multi-purpose court for basketball or badminton; an open-air photogenic Catholic chapel; and two helipads.
“Balesin Pines is like one building inside that village [Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges] but it serves as [a place] where the Balesin Key member can access. The idea really is when you have a Key membership, you're able to have these luxury-type vacations that are very different. You can do the city, right? You can do sports, you can do business there, socials. You can do the island, which is the beach. And you can do Pines, which is mountains. So, with one membership, you have different flavors. With one membership, you have three different experiences,” Ongpin-Duarte said
At the three Balesin properties, there may be subtle but unmistakable unifying hints like the color scheme of the interiors or the choice of décor that make them distinct.
“So, you can see there are signature elements to the design, but it's more of the service and the experience. Balesin is so unique in the sense that where can you find a membership that gives you access to three properties, right? And our flagship, Balesin Island, it's so unique in the sense that it's only 30 minutes away from our bay. But when you arrive there, it's like 500 hectares of so many different varieties and villages,” said Ongpin-Duarte.
The island has seven restaurants with different smells such as Indonesian, Thai, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Italian, and Greek.
“So, it's very unique in that sense that you can do so many things, and there's so much variety. So, you can stay a whole week, two weeks, without repeating a restaurant. Or even if you’ve been repeating it, you won't get tired,” Ongpin-Duarte assured.
“So that's the difference between Balesin and maybe going to a luxury resort in Cebu or in Palawan where normally it's one resort, one hotel with just three or four restaurants,” said Ongpin-Duarte. “But normally, these island resorts have only one restaurant. And just after two or three days, you’ve done everything. In Balesin, after one, you haven't done everything.”
