So the story over the weekend was about how model/fashion designer Maggie Wilson-Consunji was rubbed the wrong way in an incident at the exclusive Balesin Island Club where she discovered the "Yaya's Meal". Just like the general public, I sympathize with Maggie. But, I don't want to elaborate on the Yaya's meal incident. One can read that elsewhere on the internet. Besides, I get reminded of the Torre de Manila monstrosity behind the Rizal monument at Luneta by mere word association.
So if it's discrimination we're talking about, nothing rises to the top than what I stumbled upon. Yaya's meal is nothing. In this quick picture, one can see four different doors to personal relief. The doors are, Male Toilet, Male Executive Toilet, Female Executive Toilet, and Female Toilet. So here we are, this is a four way discrimination which sets the Yaya's meal issue to the corner.
No, this picture of four CR doors does not belittle people by what I see as, "down-labeling" as in the Yaya meal incident. But it does have the unnecessary pleasure of "up-labeling" the idiots in management who create such controversies as this. It simply states in a not so subtle way, "We executives piss in a different manner than the rest of you from the rank and file".
Baahh, maybe I give too much meaning to simple signs. I could just be overreacting. Then again, reader, what do you think?
Dr. Vicki
Belo is one audacious woman. We say that in a very positive way because through this, coupled with perseverance, and hard work, Dr. Belo was hailed the No. 1
doctor in the world who has performed the most number of Thermage
procedures. From what was a humble 44-sq.-m.
space at the Medical Towers in Makati City, the
Belo Medical Group, celebrates 25 years of beauty expertise with two milestones, the opening of the Belo clinic at The Block, SM North
EDSA and the introduction of the Belo Collagen Drink with celebrity gem,
Marian Rivera.
Dr. Belo, founder of the
Belo Medical Group, is greatly thankful that "Belo" has become a household name that carries the pressure
of fulfilling quality service, most especially since the Belo Medical
Group received the Reader’s Digest award for being one of the most
trusted brands in 2010.
As the first and only Philippine medical-aesthetic clinic with a
National Accreditation Board of Hospitals and Healthcare Providers
(NABH) International accreditation, the Belo brand continues to open its
doors to the growing number of clients by opening its 10th branch
located at the fifth level of The Block at SM North EDSA. Inspired by
the vision of Dr. Vicki Belo to make every Filipino beautiful, one
person at a time, her 10th clinic also has a special touch of beauty.
The luxe and sophisticated interiors of the clinic was a creative
endeavor between Dr. Belo’s daughter, Cristalle Belo Henares and mega
fashion designer Patrice Ramos-Diaz.
Offering the latest innovations in dermatological and cosmetic
surgery, the clinic provides top-of-the-line treatments like Exilis and
Revlite (non-invasive fat melting and skin tightening procedures), Laser
Hair Removal, Belo Fat Freeze and many others, which retain one’s
beauty in full glory. Currently, there are 10 clinics in Metro Manila,
one clinic in Cebu and two in Davao. The second branch at Abreeza Mall,
Davao was also launched early this year.
If there’s a price to pay for beauty, Belo has made that price very
affordable. With a skincare line available at drugstores and other
leading online stores nationwide, Belo brings forth another miracle
working product, which Dr. Belo herself has actually been using for
years. With the ardent desire to share this with wonder powder with all
Filipinos, she has carefully packaged the Belo Nutraceuticals Collagen
Powder Drink with hyaluronic acid to suit the daily needs and
quick-paced lifestyle of every individual.
Imported from Japan, the marine collagen powder (derived from a
fibrous protein extracted from the scales or skin of saltwater fish,
including cod and salmon) is packed into 7,000-mg. sachets that can be
bought individually or in 14-sachet packs. Brand ambassador Marian
Rivera attests to the power of the powder that she takes twice a day —
one in the morning usually mixed with coffee, and the other one at night
with her dinner soup or juice. Having a sexy body is essential to her,
but maintaining fantastic skin is an entirely different story. “Having
beautiful skin is very important to me, especially now that I am fond of
posting (my pictures) in social media. And of course, I want Dong
(Dingdong Dantes) to fall in love with me every day,” Marian tells us.
Dr. Vicki Belo uses analogy to illustrate how collagen functions.
“Youthful skin is like a brand new sofa — it’s so firm that when you sit
on it, you are pushed back up, unlike with an old sofa, where you
simply sink down. The collagen in our skin is like a spring that
enhances the structure and firmness of our skin.”
To emphasize the importance of the substance, collagen is the most
dominant protein in our bodies. As a matter of fact, 30 percent of the
protein found in our body is collagen. And more significantly, 70
percent of our skin is composed of collagen. It provides strength and
structure to different parts of the body, holding cells and tissues
together in bones, tendons and ligaments. Collagen is naturally produced
by our bodies and inhibits formation of wrinkles by keeping the skin
elastic and supple. Unfortunately, the rate at which we produce collagen
in our body decreases as we age and are exposed to the sun. Free
radicals and stress destroy the integrity of the collagen fibers in our
skin. As babies, we have 100 percent collagen. At 30, we have 20 percent
less collagen. At 40, we have 40 percent less collagen and at 50, we
have 50 percent less collagen!
With that said, we need all the help we can get to age gracefully.
Belo Nutraceuticals Collagen Powder Drink has remarkable anti-aging
benefits in making the skin firmer, the nails stronger and the hair
thicker. Furthermore, what makes it different from other collagen drinks
is that it contains hyaluronic acid, a moisture magnet that improves
skin hydration, absorbing a thousand times its weight in water
molecules.
The collagen powder has a vanilla taste. One sachet a day dissolved
in your favorite hot or cold beverage, be it coffee or tea, milk or
yogurt, is all you need to keep your skin hydrated and firm. As Marian’s
new favorite, Dr. Belo is hopeful that her new collagen powder drink
will reach more women searching for the final answer to youthful skin.
Indeed, Marian is a living proof that looking young is a daily drink
away. (Or getting married to an extremely hunky guy may be another
factor!)
If you don’t believe all the fancy billboards and celebrity endorsers
of Belo, there’s only one way to find out how real and long-lasting
beauty is achieved. Drop by a clinic and get Belofied!
(Also offered at its Belo Greenbelt clinic is the world’s first
Picosecond Laser that is far more effective on skin pigmentation,
melasma, fine lines and skin rejuvenation. For more information, call
819-2356 or e-mail at info@belomed.com. Belo The Block is located at the fifth level of The Block at SM North EDSA.)
(For best results, consult your doctor.)
Hayden Kho launched his line of perfume last Thursday, October 21, 2010.
With his medical license revoked due to the Katrina scandal, Hayden aims to be the first legitimate perfumer in the Philippines as there are none so far in this country. The perfume line is aptly called, Hayden.
For the past months, he has been learning all he can about perfumery and scents.
He collaborated with Greg Banzon who is with RFM company. They discussed several business options but Hayden stressed that he wanted a beauty-related one. After looking through several beauty products, Hayden finally decided on perfumes.
No, he is not partnering with Dr.Vicky Belo, but instead put up his own company called Inovacao da Vida, Inc. meaning innovation of life in Portuguese. For Hayden, it holds a special meaning since it means you can change your life, you can innovate life. You’ve probably done a lot of wrong things in the past, but you can change things and make life better.
Hayden also contacted Takasago (Fragrance Creation Center in Paris) and asked them if they could hook him up with Yves Tanguy. Yves is the professor of fragrance creation in Versailles.
Hayden trained with them. "All the raw materials for fragrances were there. They taught us and tested us. I can’t say I’m an expert though, I’m not yet a nose. But I’m learning and training, and hopefully, someday, I will fulfill my fantasy of being the first perfumer in the Philippines."
The special edition is called Amberwoods and Rose Petals, and it’s in black.
The price for Hayden perfumes:
P680 for 100ml
P460 for 50ml
P280 for 120ml of tall PETs
Accoding to Hayden Kho, the bottles are very nice and very classy. Pefumes will be available in Hayden kiosks in the malls as well as in Watsons.
A mesmerizing Halloween surprise awaits at Velocity Bar on October 30, 2:00PM, where the little ones are in to experience a delightfully creepy wizard and witches party for only P500 nett. Dress them up with their dream character for a truly enchanting moment while they get a chance to win a thrilling gift for their c...utest and most unique costume. An afternoon filled with spectacular party activity traditions such as the spell binding magic show, artsy face painting, and flashy glimmer tattoo will surely keep them amuse. The kids are also put in the spotlight at the interactive pizza making corner where they will have a great time embellishing their own pizza creations with premium toppings. Preparing a tasty treat has never been this absolutely fun and bubbly!
Lusciously prepared candy apple, choco banana, scary cup cake, marsh mellow, pumpkin pie and other dolled up pastries will surely get the kids into a thrilling Halloween feel. Other toothsome savories of the day are mini burger, mini hotdog, fried chicken, lasagna, bolognese, and mash potato. To partner with these trick or treat event, Californiaberry Non-Fat Frozen Yogurt and Fruit Magic ends the meal with their signature Halloween dessert contenders. As the most-awaited highlight, watch the adorable kids line up and roam around the hotel showing off their creative knacks for “trick or treat”. Up for grabs are dainty and decadent take home goodies courtesy of Nestle Chuckie, Yakult, Universal Robina Corporation, Grand Alpatech Corporation, Leslie’s Corporation, and Liwayway Marketing Corporation. While Enchanted Kingdom, the country’s premiere amusement park brings a truly fascinating experience to all kids and to those truly child at heart with their take home souvenirs to all participants. Capture this most enjoyable day with the whole family as you take home a photo souvenir courtesy of Baicapture.
M Session celebrates the sound of legendary Detroit based Label Motown with 4 DJs in 1 night.
From Michel Jackson, Stevie Wonder to Erykah Badu & co.. From classics to up to date remixes & beyond.
The impact of the Motown can still be heard in today's House, Hip Hop and RnB productions where producers rely on chopped up samples of Motown originals over a fat beat.
To start a year-long string of fun and exciting events that single ladies can take pleasure in to get to know, have fun and mingle with ideal bachelors, Vivre Fort happily brings 100 BACHELORS The Perfect Ladies’ Night Out on September 24, 2010, 8PM at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.
The Perfect Ladies’ Night Out is 100% Fun, 100% Hot and 100% Memorable. Here, ladies can witness the 100 Bachelors showcase their outstanding qualities, gifts and talents. Exciting and interactive activities with the bachelors also await the ladies that will surely make their bodies’ temperature rise!
In addition to all of these exciting activities, the event will also feature 100 Booths to shop, splurge and to enjoy which is open from 10 am to 12 midnight.
Ladies will surely enjoy The Perfect Ladies’ Night Out unlike any other party they’ve ever been to. Single men are also welcome to join the event and party with the ladies.
Tickets are available at SM Tickets located in all SM Cinemas. Call 470 2222 for more details.
By Rachelle Siazon, ABS-CBN.com
Posted at 04/17/2010 11:28 PM | Updated as of 04/18/2010 7:48 PM
MANILA, Philippines - In spite of her nonstop concert tours abroad, international singing sensation Lea Salonga excitedly shared that she already set aside some time for her upcoming movie with her original Pinoy ka-love team Aga Muhlach for around late 2010. It’s the showbiz comeback that she has been waiting for since 2008.
“Now, it’s all about getting the right storyline and the script. Once that happens then madali na lang yun since I know who my leading man is already, that's a given, I already know. And I’ve been texting him let’s do this na. Sabi naman niya, ‘Oo, basta I’ll take care of you. Don’t worry Lea, it’s going to be special for us and for everybody.’ I was like, ‘Okay, ipinangako mo sa akin ‘yan ha.’ So I’m depending on Aga to make it special,” she happily exclaimed during her press con for Bounty Fresh Chicken last April 12.
Contrary to her previous interviews, however, Lea clarified that doing a bed scene with Aga is something she has to discuss first with Chinese-Japanese husband Robert Chien.
“Ay, no! Ayoko, ayoko, ayoko [ng bed scene]. A kiss is okay, and my husband knows it, but anything more than that I don’t know. Of course, I need to ask permission from my husband first out of respect for him. I know Aga and his wife Charlene [Gonzales], but I got to be respectful of him (Robert), too because I have to answer to him at the end of the day, you know. And so, obviously, both of us are going to have to read the script,” she explained.
When told that it has been Aga’s trademark to have controversial love scenes, Lea remarked that she had also noticed how young his leading ladies were in his previous films.
“Never mind kung sexy e, pero bata, mga bagets! I was like, ‘Okay, what’s up with you being paired with somebody who’s 23 or 24 years old? What's up with that?’ You know, I kind of want to do this film with him because then we don’t have to be young. We could just be who we are. And when I saw the Hollywood movie It’s Complicated (starring Meryl Streep and Alec Baldwin), they're older, sexy… They’re so smart and incredibly funny. Why don’t we do a movie with people like that? That it’s about the older ones being savvy and smart, you know?”
If that’s the case, then would she reconsider doing a sensual but artistically done love scene that will give justice to a beautiful story?
“I don’t know okay? The script can be [changed], everything’s up for discussion. I mean, he's 41, I’m 39. You know what, it'll be whatever it'll be. But I’m just hoping that please do not give us puppy love anymore because we have families and children. Wala ng maniniwala if we do a movie where we play pa-cute,” she replied with a laugh.
While waiting for the movie, Lea will be busy with her U.S. tour this summer: Paris Hotel, Las Vegas with Patti Austin (April 17), Casino Morongo, Cabazon, California (April 24), Saban Theater, Beverly Hills, California with Patti Austin (April 30), and Performing Arts Center with Patti Austin (May 1).
MANILA, Philippines - In spite of her nonstop concert tours abroad, international singing sensation Lea Salonga excitedly shared that she already set aside some time for her upcoming movie with her original Pinoy ka-love team Aga Muhlach for around late 2010. It’s the showbiz comeback that she has been waiting for since 2008.
“Now, it’s all about getting the right storyline and the script. Once that happens then madali na lang yun since I know who my leading man is already, that's a given, I already know. And I’ve been texting him let’s do this na. Sabi naman niya, ‘Oo, basta I’ll take care of you. Don’t worry Lea, it’s going to be special for us and for everybody.’ I was like, ‘Okay, ipinangako mo sa akin ‘yan ha.’ So I’m depending on Aga to make it special,” she happily exclaimed during her press con for Bounty Fresh Chicken last April 12.
Contrary to her previous interviews, however, Lea clarified that doing a bed scene with Aga is something she has to discuss first with Chinese-Japanese husband Robert Chien.
“Ay, no! Ayoko, ayoko, ayoko [ng bed scene]. A kiss is okay, and my husband knows it, but anything more than that I don’t know. Of course, I need to ask permission from my husband first out of respect for him. I know Aga and his wife Charlene [Gonzales], but I got to be respectful of him (Robert), too because I have to answer to him at the end of the day, you know. And so, obviously, both of us are going to have to read the script,” she explained.
When told that it has been Aga’s trademark to have controversial love scenes, Lea remarked that she had also noticed how young his leading ladies were in his previous films.
“Never mind kung sexy e, pero bata, mga bagets! I was like, ‘Okay, what’s up with you being paired with somebody who’s 23 or 24 years old? What's up with that?’ You know, I kind of want to do this film with him because then we don’t have to be young. We could just be who we are. And when I saw the Hollywood movie It’s Complicated (starring Meryl Streep and Alec Baldwin), they're older, sexy… They’re so smart and incredibly funny. Why don’t we do a movie with people like that? That it’s about the older ones being savvy and smart, you know?”
If that’s the case, then would she reconsider doing a sensual but artistically done love scene that will give justice to a beautiful story?
“I don’t know okay? The script can be [changed], everything’s up for discussion. I mean, he's 41, I’m 39. You know what, it'll be whatever it'll be. But I’m just hoping that please do not give us puppy love anymore because we have families and children. Wala ng maniniwala if we do a movie where we play pa-cute,” she replied with a laugh.
While waiting for the movie, Lea will be busy with her U.S. tour this summer: Paris Hotel, Las Vegas with Patti Austin (April 17), Casino Morongo, Cabazon, California (April 24), Saban Theater, Beverly Hills, California with Patti Austin (April 30), and Performing Arts Center with Patti Austin (May 1).
MANILA, Philippines - In spite of her nonstop concert tours abroad, international singing sensation Lea Salonga excitedly shared that she already set aside some time for her upcoming movie with her original Pinoy ka-love team Aga Muhlach for around late 2010. It’s the showbiz comeback that she has been waiting for since 2008.
“Now, it’s all about getting the right storyline and the script. Once that happens then madali na lang yun since I know who my leading man is already, that's a given, I already know. And I’ve been texting him let’s do this na. Sabi naman niya, ‘Oo, basta I’ll take care of you. Don’t worry Lea, it’s going to be special for us and for everybody.’ I was like, ‘Okay, ipinangako mo sa akin ‘yan ha.’ So I’m depending on Aga to make it special,” she happily exclaimed during her press con for Bounty Fresh Chicken last April 12.
Contrary to her previous interviews, however, Lea clarified that doing a bed scene with Aga is something she has to discuss first with Chinese-Japanese husband Robert Chien.
“Ay, no! Ayoko, ayoko, ayoko [ng bed scene]. A kiss is okay, and my husband knows it, but anything more than that I don’t know. Of course, I need to ask permission from my husband first out of respect for him. I know Aga and his wife Charlene [Gonzales], but I got to be respectful of him (Robert), too because I have to answer to him at the end of the day, you know. And so, obviously, both of us are going to have to read the script,” she explained.
When told that it has been Aga’s trademark to have controversial love scenes, Lea remarked that she had also noticed how young his leading ladies were in his previous films.
“Never mind kung sexy e, pero bata, mga bagets! I was like, ‘Okay, what’s up with you being paired with somebody who’s 23 or 24 years old? What's up with that?’ You know, I kind of want to do this film with him because then we don’t have to be young. We could just be who we are. And when I saw the Hollywood movie It’s Complicated (starring Meryl Streep and Alec Baldwin), they're older, sexy… They’re so smart and incredibly funny. Why don’t we do a movie with people like that? That it’s about the older ones being savvy and smart, you know?”
If that’s the case, then would she reconsider doing a sensual but artistically done love scene that will give justice to a beautiful story?
“I don’t know okay? The script can be [changed], everything’s up for discussion. I mean, he's 41, I’m 39. You know what, it'll be whatever it'll be. But I’m just hoping that please do not give us puppy love anymore because we have families and children. Wala ng maniniwala if we do a movie where we play pa-cute,” she replied with a laugh.
While waiting for the movie, Lea will be busy with her U.S. tour this summer: Paris Hotel, Las Vegas with Patti Austin (April 17), Casino Morongo, Cabazon, California (April 24), Saban Theater, Beverly Hills, California with Patti Austin (April 30), and Performing Arts Center with Patti Austin (May 1).
From his article in the Philippines Star 'Cougar - A Cat and a Woman' ME, STARZAN By Joey de Leon (The Philippine Star) Updated August 15, 2010 12:00
There’s no question that women will always be a very interesting subject. But for those who openly and passionately claim that they truly adore women, and to those who are addicted talking and writing about them, did you ever care and think of finding out why these beautiful creatures are called such — women?
O ano, aber? What’s their “WO” doing before us men? Do these letters really stand for Wife Of? Hence, Wife Of Man. Pwede?
It’s possible too that “WO” is short for womb — man with womb? Pwede rin?
But we are all called men in general. The “WO” was clearly placed there to recognize the difference between the male from the female. But why WO? Could they be symbolizing something?
Pero ‘wag nang mag-alala’t nalaman ko na Kung ano at para saan ang “wo” sa una, Nang papasok sa Bulaga isang umaga, Biglaang sa isip ko ay pumasok siya.
Kulang na lang ay mapasigaw ng, “Eureka!” Sa nadiskubrehan kong sana’y ikasiya, Kaya eto na po kayo ay maghanda na,
Kung ano ang “wo” sa woman sasabihin na.
Siguro naman tayo ay nagkakaisa Na mga drawing ang nauna kaysa letra, At ang “wo” sa tingin ko ay mga pigura Ng dalawang maseselang parte ni Eba. Tingnan ang “W” at dibdib ang kapara — S’yay may dalawang lundo o ano, hindi ba? At bilog na “O” ito ba’y sasabihin pa? Butas na lagusan ng sangkatauhan s’ya.
Kung paniniwalaan nasa sa inyo na, At inaako ko kung ano ang nabasa, Nung Miercoles lang nang pumasok ang ideya, Tanggap kong regalo at ‘di nagpapatawa.
Siguro ang iba d’yan ay sasabihin pa Na itong si Joey tarantado talaga, Kung kayo’y tagahanga inyo bang napuna Wala akong “ngek!” sa dulo na binalandra?
* * *
But wait, there’s more... teka nga at teka lang, why do women today have a nicer and cuter name for themselves if they date or get involved romantically with younger men? Cougar. Wow, bakit ganon? Pag lalaki, dirty old men! Anak ng put your head on my shoulder!Where is your sense of fairness?
Cougar ka d’yan! You just changed it from SUGAR! Ngek! At inalis n’yo pa ‘yung “mommy” ha — at ayaw pa n’yo ng Cougar Mommy ha.
Well, kung ayaw n’yo ng “sugar,” eh at least, let’s be equal.
Gets n’yo? Sugar and Equal?
Why don’t you just call older men who still go for younger girls “Flirty Gold Men?” ‘Wag nang dirty! Para namang salaula at balahura ang dating ng mga lalaki eh. Imagine, kayo cougar — parang regal at kagalang-galang ang arrive. Tapos ang lalaki D.O.M.? Manyakis na manyakis ‘di ba?
O ganito na lang — anyway, you picked an animal name from the cat family , cougar — let men pick their own. Say, PUMA. O, ‘di ba ang ganda? Tabla-tabla na. We are family pa. You are cougar. And we are puma. Hindi pa halatang “puma”is short for puma-patol sa bata. Ngek!
* * *
Last July 30, a Friday, I watched Cats with my pride (de Leon yata ito) at the CCP. When the show continued after the intermission, I was surprised to hear a reprise of the song Memory performed in Tagalog! As a matter of fact, although it was not common for musical play goers to clap at the beginning of a number, the Filipino audience could not control giving it a warm applause. Hindi nakapagpigil baga dala ng Pinoy pride.
I learned the next day that the Tagalog translation was written by Pete Lacaba. Galing. It was poetically translated from the sentiments of Lea Salonga’s character Grizabella.
But again, in the spirit of fairness, here’s my own set of lyrics to the tune of Memory but this time from a real cat’s point of view —
Pusa Laging api na lamang Madalas pang maturong Nagnakaw ng ulam Malimit pa Pag kami ay nasagasaan
Flat na flat ang katawan...
Openly revealed or poorly concealed, May-December romances have emerged as phenomenal fodder for conversations, both for those who fawn over or frown on this type of convention-breaking (or some say, liberating) relationship.
Thanks to superstars Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher or their lesser known Hollywood counterparts, what has once been dismissed as taboo has been given quite the rehabilitated image: That older women dating younger men is not only gaining society’s approval but that it is now an attractive alternative. Before Demi and Ashton, there’s always been the May-December partnership between actress Susan Sarandon and her much younger boyfriend actor Tim Robbins.
The Nanny actress Fran Drescher once dated a gentleman 16 years younger than herself. Actress Kim Catrall, whose sexually-adventurous character Samantha in Sex and the City favored young men, is seeing someone many years her junior in real life.
In Philippine showbiz, the May-December trend is alive and well. Famous examples: TV host Kris Aquino and basketballer husband James Yap have an 11-year age gap; star for all seasons Vilma Santos is married to politician Ralph Recto who is ten years younger than the Batangas governor; concert queen Pops Fernandez is dating younger actor Jomari Yllana and the list goes on.
Within the Socal vicinity, there’s been the much publicized new marriage of Fil-Am newspaper columnist Cora Pastrana and the much younger Raymond Bagatsing.
There’s also the fascinating dating life of LA-based singer and actress Lou Sabas who has no qualms admitting she enjoys the company of younger gentlemen.
Sabas believes her fascination with younger men was borne out of an interrupted young adulthood. She married very young (at age 21) and gave birth to a baby girl the following year.
Sabas says she missed the opportunity to date guys her own age when she was in her 20s.
"My first husband was the only older guy in my life, seven years older than me. I got married the second time, he was two years younger. That marriage which lasted ten years didn’t work out in the end. Now I’ve been divorced for 16 years. Most of my friends are in their 20s and 30s and I get along real well with them. So most of the time, I’m around younger guys and they never treat me like an older woman. I like their sense of humor and they are more fun to be with. They uplift my spirit and it helps me feel young all the time. And I believe that how you feel about yourself is the aura that other people can see when they look at you," says Sabas.
Currently, she is openly dating 28-year-old Philipp Harth.
So what’s age really got to do with it? If you ask actor Tim Robbins, age isn’t even a factor in his relationship with the older Susan Sarandon. The actor told a 1995 Playboy magazine interview that "Each person is who they are. I’ve met young women who are old, I’ve met older women who are young."
But really, if age weren’t a factor, why does it even come up in the case of older women dating younger men?
Many believe it’s partly because of the double standard. After all, older men have been engaging in May-December affairs with much younger women for ages.
Author Valerie Gibson who penned the book Cougar: A Guide for Older Women Dating Younger Men is aware of the double standard.
In the end, the ultimate reason why older people decide to date younger is more or less the same across the board— whether you’re a woman, man, gay or straight.
The main lure, according to Gibson is "the mentality of having a youthful person on your arm who makes you feel good, who makes you feel ageless, makes you feel desired and desirable."
INTERVIEW: ALEX PAITA
PHOTOGRAPHY: XANDER ANGELES OF EDGE OF LIGHT
After wooing you for what seemed like forever, you finally gave in! Please tell us this is really happening.
Yes, two years ago I was really hesitant kasi masyadong daring yung mga pinagagawa ninyo. Hindi ko kaya. Right now, wala naman akong image na pino-project. I don’t want to be trapped in one image. I already posed for a body calendar two years ago. I didn’t get any violent reactions. Ngayon, I’m really flattered kasi nag-offer uli ang FHM na mag-pose ako.
Were you even aware of the large chunk of letters we get from readers requesting for you?
Really? I’m not aware! I’d be really flattered if I’d known then. It boosts my confidence kasi at my age di ba, may nagre-request. Thirty-eight is not too old after all. But compared to your recent cover girls, that is too old. Ha ha!
That’s precisely the point. You’re 38 and still as hot as those teens! Do you mind being called a MILF?
Ha ha ha! Bahala sila. Para sa akin this is another role. I can do this, and I can do a lot more things. I’m an empowered woman no matter what I do.
But really, you don’t look like a mom. We mean, with that face and that body…
Thank you. Yun din nga ang sabi ng husband ko. So when he saw Xander’s works pumayag na agad siya. He’s proud that I’m posing for FHM.
Of course, being Amor Powers adds up something to your sex appeal.
Yes, that was five years ago. But as I’ve said I don’t want to maintain one image. Gusto ko puwede akong maging mother, other woman, girlfriend ng bata. At para pagtanda ko, I have something to keep and say, “Wow, I posed for FHM!”
One of the things which a Cougar must come to grips with is the fact that her body may not be in the best of shape forever. Try as she might, the cougar is battling against age and gravity. So with this, it comes as no surprise that more cougars are trying what may be their stab at being the model they've always wanted to be.
Enter the world of Budoir Portraiture.
Jean Garcia did it for FHM, and so did Dina Bonnevie. While you may not really land the pages of FHM, Maxim, Uno, or Rogue, bear in mind that a budoir portrait session will be the closest to that same experience.
And why should a cougar have a budoir photo session?
Well, besides giving you an opportunity to be naked in a situation where you would normally be clothed, being photographed naked will yield a souvenir that you can use as inspiration. Even so, it should be as flattering as possible: The idea is to provide a sense of pride and possibility. As a tip, stick to black and white--it’s less distracting than color, and you’ll see fewer irregularities in skin tone--and use soft, diffused light to soften any lumps, bumps, or other imperfections on your skin.
So now that I've mentioned black and white, I am now reminded of what it was like in high school to pose before Toch Arellano. Girl, Toch was the best!
If Toch were still alive today, I'd be sure he'd raise his eyebrows in thinking that the high school seniors of the Bagets era would make a beeline to his studio in Eisenhower St. to have budoir sessions.
In the next post, we'll tell you how to handle yourself in a budoir session.
Yes, sounds like fun, and if he is charming, intellectually curious, kind to others, has a good sense of humor it just might lead to “gonna make it after all.” Women can date whom they want, when they want and get called just “women.” Though I will not date any man 10 years younger and any boy as young as my 18-year-old son.—Michele Sison, designer, Michele Sison et Kleid; widow with a teenage son
Cougar! What a provocative name for an older woman with a much younger man as prey. I’ve been free to date for the last 10 years, but no, I wouldn’t care to date a much younger man. I do not enjoy the prospect of becoming a sugar mommy, for what else would a much younger man want with an old cow like me? I know it’s just a date, but I’m sensitive to what people might say and will never be able to explain to my conservative children. A woman should always behave her age, especially if she has children who look up to her as a model.—Erlinda Enriquez Panlilio, writer; widow
No, I will not go out with anyone younger by more than five years. I’ve always liked the wisdom, wordliness and finesse of older men.—Leah Caringal, managing director, Green Bulb PR; happily singleopen to fun and action
While I’d much rather date an older man or someone my age, I wouldn’t discount datingsomeone younger. If a young, confident stud could transform playful banter into intellectually engaging conversation, why not? Plus, he’d most likely be already impressed with who you are and what you’ve accomplished without having you try so hard.—Zo Aguila, editor in chief, Cosmopolitan magazine; single and loving it
Even if I were free to date now, I wouldn’t go out with a much younger man. I have four children, I don’t think I can handle a fifth.—Kaye Tinga, philanthropist- socialite; married
Yes, more out of curiosity than anything else. I’ve been associated with older men ever since I can remember so it might be exciting to break out of the mold once in a while. Although the maximum [age] I would probably go is 10 years my junior. [Any younger] than that would be way too much work and for the more adventurous woman I guess—I can’t imagine what our conversations would be like! Or maybe I shouldn’t judge too hastily and just need to get my feet wet first. Ask me again in a few years.—Malu Francisco, retail executive; single with two adult kids
Why not? As long as the guy knows how to differentiate the mother from her daughters. And the affair should not cost me anything. —Annie Ringor, managing director, Bridges@Com; widow with two daughters
I would date a younger man but it depends how much younger. Young people can be fun and interesting and give off a nice vibe and energy. That can’t be a bad thing. Actually age isn’t a big deal because there are also immature older men. The age difference just shouldn’t look too obvious or awkward.—Chiqui Mabanta, restaurateur, Corner Tree Café and Mexicali; single
Assuming I were free, yes I would go out with a younger man, but no more than 10 years younger. First, they’ve got more energy. Second, I noticed that men mature a lot faster than they used to, so you get a fresh new perspective on life, politics, religion... And the fact that they show interest in an older woman shows that they are open to intellectual stimulation. And hey, a little spice never hurt! Ahh... I have the makings of a cougar!—Marla Moran Tañada, restaurateur, Café Mediterranean; married with two kids
Now at 33, no. I’m a different person now. But if I recall, when I was 27 I “dated” a 19-year-old, and his cousin who was also 19 right after. Haha! I have dated much older men, too. About 10 years my senior. Now the perfect fit, the man I’m dating is 35. We are at the same stage in our life, enjoying our youth and will be literally growing old together.—Tina Pamintuan, model, chef, restaurateur, L’incontro Ristorante Italiano; single
Assuming that I am in a position to still go dating, I don’t find anything wrong in going out with someone younger than me. If the chemistry’s there, why not? What’s important is that we get along well and we have the same appreciation of things. The relationship should be inspiring and fun and as long as there’s mutual love, trust and respect, age shouldn’t be a problem.—Antonette Villanueva Rodriguez, badminton enthusiast; married with two children
I’m two years older than my husband so yes, I would. Age is just a number. It doesn’t dictate maturity or love.—Sunshine Puey Pengson, chef, The Goose Station; married
Nope. Depends on my age. [When I’m] 50 [or older] definitely. [Now that I am still under] 40, I would rather go out with an older man since I want a man to take care of me instead of [me] taking care of a [him].—Pixie Sevilla Santos, chef-instructor, Magsaysay Institute of Hospitality and Culinary Arts; married with one daughter
Depends.—Millie Dizon, VP for marketing communications, SM; single
I’m fine as long as he’s a man who is striving for perfection in every aspect of his life. Basta not more than five years younger.—Ruby Gan, entrepreneur/power lifter; single with two adult sons
No, I want a mature man who can fascinate me with his brain. And I already have three kids, I don’t need another son to baby. Gusto ko ako naman ang alagaan.—Madge Lejano, makeup artist, single
No, because men are immature by nature. I’d rather go out with a guy my age or older.—Agoo Bengzon, beauty editor; married
Definitely yes... It will be wonderful to get fresh energy into the system. —Tessa Prieto-Valdes, columnist/host/interior designer; married
Age is nothing but a number, it’s the maturity that matters. I once dated someone who was much older than me but he turned out to be infantile.—Divine Lee, entrepreneur/ model; in a relationship
Yes, why not? As long as he can carry an intellectual conversation with me, age will never be a barrier.—Leah Salterio, publicist; regularly dating
Personally, I’d rather date a king than a prince charming.—Joyce Ramirez, publicist; single
No, they don’t know what they want in life. Older men are sexier—I married one.—Juana Manahan-Yupangco, writer; wife of sexy older man
Depends on his maturity level. I was asked out on a date by a younger guy and he took me bowling—with his family. Fail!—Maui Reyes-Drilon, advertising copywriter; married
Yes! The younger guys now have less hang-ups than those of my generation. They are all about having fun. Older, pretty women fascinate them as well. Would I marry one, though? Probably not.—Kinny Salas-Amparo, beauty columnist; married
Yes, I would consider it! Usually guys my age (29-30) are either taken or gay. It’s a little frustrating!—Kara Alberto, PR executive; single
Ten years younger? Why not? Malay mo mag-click. Pero kailangan maginoo siya pero medyo bastos, hindi KJ, hindi pa-impress at dapat may ipambabayad siya ng bill ng kinain namin otherwise magwo-walkout ako... Next, 10 years older please!”— Merci de Leon, physician; married
If I were single, why not? It’s just a date. Although I’ll do a little investigating first if it‘s really worth giving a try or not.—Hazel Vera de la Cruz, housewife
Yes, absolutely. Why not? I think I’m still too young to be called a cougar or MILF and I’m totally not an ageist! Though I’ve only dated a younger man once, I have always been friends with younger people in general so I can’t imagine holding a man’s age against him. Nowadays, age is just a number. Whatever their age, I’ll make sure to select men who are honest and genuine and who are who they claim to be. Age is no indicator of how decent a man is. —NJ Torres, publicist; single
Philippine Daily Inquirer First Posted 00:05:00 08/17/2008
MANILA, Philippines - (Thumbs up) When Imee Marcos attended the Inquirer Lifestyle fashion show at Peninsula recently, all eyes were on her. It wasn’t her drop-dead gorgeous buttercup-yellow ruffle dress. It was her eye-popping accessory: two tall, goodlooking guys who could be her sons’ age.
Throughout the show, the chic former congresswoman sat wedged between the two hunks.. “Brazilians,” the information rippled across the ballroom.
If Marcos was out to start or emphasize a trend—as she had done in the ’80s—she succeeded. Gorgeous Brazilian guys make good eye candy these days, whether on the ramp (despite the threat of deportation faced by Brazilian models without the proper work permit), or off it.
Less conspicuous—but only because she arrived right before the show and disappeared just as quickly—was ex-model Bessie Badilla, who, while still quite stunning, created more stir for her arm candy than for her own statuesque form.
Now a widow (a very rich one), Bessie was escorted by a Mr. Brazil. Unfortunately, photographers never got to capture the moment.
Turned out, Badilla was chosen carnival queen in Sao Paolo early this year. There she met these pageant winners (video of her partying with them in Brazil is on YouTube). She had e-mailed to friends, telling them that some Brazilian pageant winners would be coming over. Marcos’ escorts were reportedly from that group. A couple of these men were here for modeling gigs.
Brazilian models-as-arm candy is the “a trend” in this town, said a fashion show director. They’re here to stay (the models) “kasi legal na sila,” he said, noting how the models have acquired the required documents.
A prominent social fixture, real estate heiress Divine Lee, has a Brazilian boyfriend, Adriano Cartuliares, who first came to the Philippines to work as a model. The two make a handsome couple.
In the frenetic night life, the Brazilians apparently also pump up the adrenaline.
“Oh you would be surprised!” the director said, emphatic. “If you see these Pinays in the bars, they’re all over these Brazilians.”
“They like the Filipinas,” said Badilla’s designer-friend. “You know how Pinays are, foreigner at guapo, so why not? Some of these women are rich, so these models get to meet many people in these women’s circles. They create a network. They know how to make PR.”
Filipinas had the “Taiwanese phase”—remember the F4, when everyone went gaga over the Taiwanese boys. Now it’s the Brazilian phase.
Voluptuous is beautiful
(Thumbs up) After the hot striptease of the world-famous Dita von Teese, we overheard women talking in the powder room of Shangri-La Makati where the Belo’s Venetian ball was held. Touching up her makeup, one matron turned to the other: “Pwede pa lang voluptuous, diet pa tayo nang diet.”
Correct. Voluptuous was the definition of beauty in the ’50s, when the Hollywood goddesses such as Marilyn Monroe set the world on fire. In the war era, there were the pin-up girls—bosomy, curvaceous hips, pouty lips—whose photos made the soldiers thrown to the war front, feel the home they were missing.
Von Teese represented that kind of beauty—not anorexic or ultra-thin, but with an hourglass figure (22-inch waistline), round hips, very full breasts.
What a reminder it was how the definition of physical beauty has been so tweaked to exult anorexia, such that women are literally starving themselves to death—or are going under the knife at Belo.
Beauty in Grades 5 or 6
(Thumbs up) When is a good time to finetune one’s concept of beauty?
Early, when kids are only in grade school. Unilever’s Dove has a unique campus tour/workshop for fifth and sixth graders. The kids are encouraged to express what, to them, is beautiful, and how they see themselves—beautiful or ugly.
“You’ll be surprised by the confessions they make,” says Dove brand manager Dennis Perez. “Some even cry when they say how they think they’re ugly. Or they cry when they are suddenly surprised that people find them beautiful even if they’re fat.”
The road to self-esteem and self-confidence is a long journey. It’s good to know there are campaigns such as Unilever’s which start at one’s childhood, a time when life is stolen, for some.
Ed Calma, architect at last
(Thumbs up)Pratt-trained Eduardo Calma has just passed the board exams for licensed architects in the Philippines and will be sworn in on Aug. 20.
Last year he and other design consultants were chastised by the United Architects of the Philippines for practising architecture and interior design without a license.
Despite the controversy, Calma went on to win the Sub-Zero and Wolf Kitchen Design Competition in Arizona. There are winners representing each continent. Calma is the second Filipino to win in the Asian category. Cara Marcelo won two years ago.
The contest consisted of the use of Sub-Zero refrigerators and Wolf burners in a kitchen that was stylish and functional. Calma’s entry—a huge kitchen in Forbes Park, that catered to a family that loved to entertain big.
The judges were impressed by the smooth flow of space, the warm color, the restrained aesthetics and the generous expanse of glass that enhances the enjoyment of the landscape while preparing the meals.
Frustrated Chavit
(Thumbs down) Talk has it that Chavit Singson is frustrated—yet again. He can’t seem to get his membership at Manila Polo Club approved, not even if he’s backed by no less than Iñigo Zobel. Can’t win them all.
