People

Dream Lover

What’s your ideal type? For this year’s Most Wanted Bachelors List, Zee Lifestyle finds five men who are the stuff dreams are made of. Hailing from all over the world, they now call Cebu home. It’s a showcase of smoldering gazes, half smiles and captivating accents—and who’s complaining? Certainly not us.

My dream girls is CRAZYADRIEN GUERREY, 26

In the two years that he’s lived in Cebu, this shy Brittany native takes a big bite out of life travelling around the country, learning new languages, making music and performing with his punk bands Rouge Tampax and The Penalties at the Peace Bar on weekend nights, and,of course, looking for that someone special. Adrien had decided to move to Cebu after visiting a friend who worked for Alliance Francaise, and worked at Macaron Tango Café before his current job as the head chef for La Maison Rose. On the dating front, however, he admits he’s yet to go on a crazy date, good or bad, that would be one for the books, but that might also be because he already knows what he wants—someone with a strong character, a radiant smile with a nice set of teeth and, something he admits with no hesitation, “a
nice butt!”.

Romantic or pragmatic? The French have romance in their blood. Joking aside though, I am both romantic and practical. It depends on the girl.

Habits you have that might take getting used to: I have the tendency to get too engrossed in my work that it takes me to long to reply to messages or pick up phone calls. Some girls don’t like that.

Pet peeves: I can’t stand anyone who has a bad attitude towards other people, as well as know-it-alls and pretentious girls.

Can most likely be seen at: Cooking at La Maison Rose, playing music at Peace Bar, and hanging out at Outpost, Tree Lounge, or even Mango sometimes for clubbing.

My dream girl is INTELLIGENTJOEL CLOTAS, 29

Just when you think he’s heavily flirting with you, or with everyone, think again: he’s Spanish—he’s just very naturally affectionate. Born and raised in Barcelona, Joel’s accent is thick and sexy, something he’s working hard to improve on as the next IELTS exams draw closer and he’s trying to secure a “skills visa.” An architect by profession, he drums up the next hot resort in Bohol, Boracay or Palawan at Gallego Architects; but by night, he’s Scrapyard Lounge’s resident DJ. “Cebu has a similar atmosphere with Barcelona,” he says, justifying why he feels so at home here. “It is a beach city and people enjoy the laidback life.”

Romantic or pragmatic: I’m romantic in most intimate moments, but I am not as sweet as a teddy bear every second.

Craziest date you’ve ever been on: It was more awkward. I dated a girl in Barcelona a while back, and over dinner she didn’t talk much at all, just answering me with a “yes” or “no.” It was very uncomfortable. When I arrived home, she sent me a really long message about her feelings, her dreams, our dinner—an amazing essay. She could be a great writer, but the date was over.

How important is “physical beauty” to you? I admit it is important to a certain point, but of course, looks are all but temporary. What eventually matters are your experiences together. Someone being uninteresting is far worse than not having the perfect body.

What a woman might want: I enjoy cooking, especially for a woman I’m into. It’s not just men whose hearts are won through their stomachs. I know women really love a man who can be their own personal chef.

My dream girl is SPONTANEOUS JESSE ELLIS, 29

“I’ve spent the last ten years travelling and would like to settle down,” said this cheerful Canadian, but he can’t help that his positive disposition and ambition has brought him places, including Cebu, where he came to expand his online business MyCheapWeek.com. He admits, though, that it’s high time to pour more resources into finding the one. His attention to detail and desire to always keep a girl happy is constantly put to the test, being an uncle to six nieces, and he is confident he won’t fail in this regard. As for his business, MyCheapWeek. com specializes in selling vacation rental weeks at discounts up to 75% less than Expedia or Orbitz, and Jesse has an entrepreneurial drive and desire to get ahead that keeps him on his toes. All that’s left now is finding someone to share the adventure with.

Romantic or pragmatic? I guess I would say I am romantic, but in a spontaneous and perhaps even goofy way.

Best dating lesson you’ve learned: Don’t get drunk before your date or make sure they are first because that way you can keep your charm.

Habits you have that might need adjusting to: Being self-employed, I need to go to bed and wake up earlier, and spread myself a bit thin most times. I am also a bit of a scatterbrain.

Can most often be seen at: During the work week, I am in IT Park, and during the weekend, I’m usually at Tree Lounge or Distillery—and if it’s a really late night, at Mango. When I get friends organized, I enjoy going to the beach or going boating.

My dream girl is WILDFIRAAS BAASSIRI, 32

“I can’t pick just one; I love everything about women,” says Firas when asked about the part of a woman’s body that entices him the most. The Istanbul native, like his country of origin, exudes a beguiling aura that keeps people on their toes—with brooding eyes and a secretive smile that suggests surprises await when in his company. With a strong appetite for life, Firas loves to cook, engages in various fitness activities like extreme sports and martial arts, and encourages people to develop a healthier eating lifestyle. He does so as the chef and proprietor of Vegan’s Guild, a food kiosk set up every Saturday at the Banilad Town Center. Find out more about his passion for health and longevity on www.facebook.com/vegansguild.

A habit of yours that might need adjusting to: I’m quite frank. I feel the need to always say what’s on my mind regardless of who I’m talking to. Some people with that, but some people, especially here, might find it a little rude.

Best dating advice you’ve heard: Pay attention to details and small things that might seem trivial or insignificant, because the little things can matter the world to women.

Best dating lesson you’ve learned: It’s important not to rush into things because what’s meant to happen will happen.

How important is “physical beauty” to you? I’d say it is important but at the end of the day, it’s the chemistry that you have with your partner that matters most—and chemistry goes far beyond how attracted you are to one another personally.

My dream girl is SURPRISINGDAVID ORTEGA, 25

The French-Spanish David has been in Cebu for barely a year, but he’s gone on more bad, awkward and fake coffee and movie dates than he can care to count. But he keeps on, wanting to find that one special girl while keeping a positive outlook—“If they didn’t happen, I might just be a boring person with a dull life.” He’s adventurous, enjoys travel, learning new cultures and languages, and does a lot of sports while he’s not working as the marketing manager for Arcanys, a software development outsourcing company. “After all I have been through, I believe I am still a romantic—I left my country, my comfort zone, to be with someone here.” It didn’t work out, but he’s here and determined to make the most of it.

What a woman might want: I’m very caring and I cook. And I’m independent—I can take care of myself and my girl. If a woman wanted to have to take care of someone, she’d have a baby, but I am here to be her man. I am also confident, so I’m not the jealous type who tries to sneak into her phone or Facebook.

Craziest dating experience: It’s really disappointing to meet someone who is a total poser, but as far as posers go, I met someone online and agreed to meet. Not only did she turn out to be a he, but he was also unruly, despicable, extremely picky and so full of himself.

Best relationship advice you’ve heard: Don’t plan things too much. There is no real science to relationships. And do not impose. People want a relationship, not a dictatorship.

Best dating advice to give: Just go for it. You never know what will come out of a simple date. Also, being rejected is not the end of the world. Life goes on and so does love.

by Ian Baol
sittings editor Shari Quimbo
creative director David Jones Cua
photography Dan Douglas Ong
fashion stylist RENova Image and Style
assistant Lor Yutico
hair and make up Jessie Glova
assistants Ann Ramos, John Dare Bejelia and Rey Reyes
model Victoria Aviso (Wafer Models)
locale Radisson Blu Cebu Executive Suite

People

A Destination Wedding in Capiz; A Love Story in Focus

by Oj Hofer | photography by Pat Dy | styling by Romero Vergara | bridal gown & groom’s tuxedo by Oj Hofer

As June draws to a close—a month filled with vows, veils, and wedding bliss—it’s only fitting to end with a love story that began not in a chapel, but behind the lens of a camera. Meet the groom, Phillip Novo: a seasoned maritime officer commanding international vessels by profession, and a passionate hobbyist photographer in his downtime. Mr. Novo has captured countless scenes from around the world, but nothing compares to his candid portraiture study of the woman he would soon marry—Mitch Alianza—in a heartfelt ceremony at the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Roxas City, Capiz.

Philip keeps it classic in sun-washed Seychelles beige linen.

Mitch channels Persephone in a gown that blossoms with spring’s charm

Capiz became the couple’s destination of choice as an homage to the bride, who hails from the province. Historically, Capiz was the second Spanish settlement established in the Philippines. With its 80-kilometer coastline and a mesmerizing stretch of rivers and swamplands, the province offered a natural allure to the wedding party. Yet for the groom, it was more than scenery—it was about honoring his bride’s heritage and heart.

Their love story spans continents, email inboxes, and a few overpacked pieces of luggage. Phillip recalls their serendipitous encounter involving jumpsuits, hot air balloons, and the rhythm of a life lived in sync.

The Sacred Heart Shrine in Capiz, transformed into a lush tropical dreamscape.

Wicker baskets, solihiya chairs, and cascading greens brought understated elegance to the naturalistic reception at Istorya Forest Garden.

How did you meet Mitch?
Right after covering a friend’s wedding. I spotted her navigating the space with this quiet confidence. We didn’t even speak—just exchanged a look. Later came a few messages, a first date, and her walking toward me in a black jumpsuit. That moment? Unforgettable. I thought, “Ka-Vogue!”

When did you know she was the one?
Honestly, from the start. I had just closed a big chapter of my life—career goals, family responsibilities—and when I held her hand for the first time, I didn’t want to let go. Everything just aligned.

You proposed in Turkey—why there?
Cappadocia. Picture it: fairy chimneys, floating hot air balloons, and this surreal landscape. It felt like a dream, and in that dream, I asked her to marry me.

Who plans your trips—beach bum or mountain guy?
I map out the adventures, and Mitch plans what we wear on them. She packs only what fits and flatters—and trust me, she always looks like she stepped out of a fashion editorial. Our luggage deserves its own Instagram.

If you had 10,000 lives, would you marry her each time?
Every single time. Even if we met in another galaxy.

What’s one quirky thing you love about her?
She’s endlessly resourceful. Whether it’s an outfit or a life goal, Mitch can pull it together like no one else. She’s sharp, creative, and once she sets her mind on something, there’s no stopping her.

What’s your message to Mitch as you set off on this next big adventure together?
Hi, Love—keep holding my hand. No matter how the winds blow, let’s keep making memories, telling stories, and seeing the world—together.

A Sky Full of Balloons, a Heart Full of Yes — Philip Proposes to Mitch in Magical Cappadocia

People

The Cardinals–an Amazing Gallery of Portraits on Cardinals in the Philippines by Artist Jun Impas

by Jing Ramos

With the recent death of Pope Francis on April 21, the Catholic Church is now focused on the election of the new Pontiff. The succeeding Pope will be challenged with continuing Pope Francis’ appointments and reforms, which leaned heavily on social justice and environmental issues.

According to the Code of Canon Law, the two most important functions of a Cardinal are to advise the Pope on matters of Church governance and global issues, and most importantly, to assume a vital role in electing a new Pope when the Holy See (Sede Vacante) is vacant.

In 6th-century Rome, the first individuals known as Cardinals were the deacons of the seven regions of the city. Since then, Cardinals have become a privileged group among the Roman clergy. It wasn’t until the 11th century that Cardinals were officially granted the right to elect a Pope. They were given the honor of wearing a red hat, which soon became their symbol. Often referred to as “Princes of the Church,” Cardinals wear distinctive red attire and are addressed as “Eminence,” a title that conveys dignity and respect.

Currently, one of the most favored contenders to continue Pope Francis’ progressive agenda is Cardinal Luis Tagle. He brings significant experience as the Pro-Prefect for the Section of the First Dicastery. Also serving as President of the Interdicasterial Commission for Consecrated Religious, Cardinal Tagle is the Grand Chancellor of the Pontifical Urbaniana University. Beyond his titles, he is widely known in the Vatican as a trusted figure within Pope Francis’ core group.

Cardinal Luis Tagle and artist Jun Impas

Jun Impas, a highly respected Cebuano visual artist known for his realistic paintings, shares his gallery of Filipino Cardinals. The artist’s accurate and detailed depictions capture not only the physical likeness but also the presence of his subjects. “As a realistic painter, my works revolve around human figures, religion, significant cultural events, and quintessential Filipino scenes. I believe in the beauty of the ordinary, and that the most touching and telling of any story is better felt when captured in infinite duration, as in a realism painting,” the artist concludes.

Cardinal Orlando Quevedo

Cardinal Archbishop Emeritus of Manila Gaudencio Borbon Cardinal Rosales

His Eminence Pablo Virgilio David, Cardinal Bishop of Caloocan

His Eminence Ricardo J. Vidal, Cardinal Archbishop of Cebu

Events

The First NUSTAR BALL

Janine Taylor, June Alegrado, Jackie Lotzof, Frances Siao, Ina Ronquillo and Christine Pelaez

The NUSTAR Ballroom, a magnificent venue at the NUSTAR Resort and Casino in Cebu, sets the stage for last night’s first-ever NUSTAR Ball.

Black was the color of night at the Zee table.

Glamorous guests from Manila and Cebu converged at the NUSTAR Ballroom, an exquisite venue within the NUSTAR Resort and Casino in Cebu. The evening unfolded with a seated 5-course dinner. The opulent feast started with Beetroot Salmon Gravlax, adorned with caper berries, caviar, set with delicate edible flowers; and a main course of Compressed Pork Belly with Crackling Skin and Baby Scallops. Another highlight was the auction of coveted items like Dior and YSL handbags, a limited-edition Bulgari watch, and an exclusive 2-night stay in Nustar’s opulent 3-bedroom villa—complete with a private pool and a dedicated butler. The charity evening benefited the Cameleon Association, an NGO based in Iloilo City created in 1997 that developed a global approach to act on the causes and effects of sexual violence against children.