Hello,

“It takes will and imagination to move memory into action”, my mentor would always tell me. And it is true and evident in today’s landscape of artists. We’ve seen determined fashion designers put their names on the global map. We’ve known entrepreneurs to address society’s pressing problems with ingenious solutions. All of these are manifestations of love and its many forms—for themselves, their ‘inner child’, their families, friends, and fellowmen.

Recently, the long-lost masterpiece Hymen, oh Hyménée by Juan Luna was revealed. The great 19th-century Filipino painter bested emerging artists in the European art scene during his time and seeing the painting with my own eyes made me understand how enigmatic the forces of will and imagination are and how rich one’s memory can be that it could influence one’s actions.

We bring you similar stories of cultural impact:

• Fashion icon and arts patron Josie Natori steps up as chairperson of Asian Cultural Council
• Experts share the lowdown on what you need to know before investing on vacation homes
• George Royeca and his wife, Angeline Tham, on how they have made it their mission to provide commuters with solutions to an almost impossible urban quagmire
• The story of Filipino fashion designer Chona Bacaoco who dressed Drusilla Gucci at the 76th Cannes Film Festival

Cheers,
Franz Sorilla IV
Assistant Digital Editor

From humble beginnings, she has shown remarkable growth in the design sphere. Growing up in the four corners of their barong barong (shanty house), Bacaoco would chose to help her mother in their tailoring shop over playing outside with the other children. Fuelled with the inspiring thought of her mother and her hometown of Guimaras, she picked up a pen, took her sketchbook and got to work. 

Discover more about the Filipino fashion designer who dressed Drusilla Gucci at the 76th Cannes Film Festival.

Traffic in the Philippine metro is notorious for its congestion. For major cities such as Cebu and Metro Manila, congestion often comes with personal and economic consequences. Fortunately, a solution has presented itself: Angkas, a revolutionary way Filipinos can get around. The app itself leans on the versatility of motorbikes, which have become a popular and reliable mode of transportation. Not only do they allow one to bypass traffic, but motorcycles have also become effective in navigating the narrow streets often found around Philippine localities.

Know how the 2020 Gen.T honouree has become a notable name in the transportation sector.

According to Sotheby’s International Realty’s 2023 Luxury Outlook report, the luxury second-home market saw a boom even during the pandemic years. Tammy Fahmi, senior vice-president of global servicing and strategy at Sotheby’s International Realty reveals that the toss-up has since been between lifestyle versus financial considerations. Following the decision to purchase a second home is often the conundrum of whether buyers should look for an abode in the city or opt for one that’s ensconced in nature.

Here’s everything you need to know before purchasing a vacation home.

Josie Cruz Natori, the indomitable Filipina revered in the international fashion scene, has always had a deep passion for the arts. Natori has been serving the ACC’s Board of Trustees since 1995. She was instrumental in the establishment of ACC’s affiliate office in Manila helmed now by Ernest Escaler.

Discover Natori’s remarkable role as chairperson as she actively pursues the promotion of vibrant cultural exchange.