People

How Rocky Dorjsembe Maintains A Strict Fitness Routine

With an impressive physique and many accolades earned in Crossfit competitions both local and international, it’s a surprise to find out Rocky Dorjsembe had only started learning the ropes of the program two years ago. The Mongolian is in Cebu to study, and in his free time, he was working as a coach in a local gym. “A Korean man visited and trained with us,” he recalls. “I was impressed by his strength and the physical abilities he demonstrated. I found out later he was a competitive Crossfitter.”

In his willingness to learn more about Crossfit, he decided to try it out by visiting Southside Fitness (formerly Crossfit Pintados), the first affiliate Crossfit box in Cebu. “After a short workout—only seven minutes of intense exercise that included pull-ups, push-ups and air squats—I was out of breath,” Rocky admits. “I realized I was not physically fit enough as a coach and fitness enthusiast.”

Adding to his fervor, he was stunned at how cheerful people were, and enjoyed the competitive but fun atmosphere that he had never experienced at regular gyms. “That feeling of community kept me going time and time again, until it became my second home.”

Now, Rocky is a Crossfit L1 Instructor at Southside Fitness, and considers the program as a sport and career. “I work out five days a week, with the other two being active rest days. A training day has about two to three hours of exercise,” he explains. “Crossfit promotes functional exercise, balancing body weight movements with cardiovascular endurance, stamina, physical strength and gymnastic agility.”

His regular exercise regimen includes working on strength through Olympic weightlifting programs. After that, he proceeds to metabolic conditioning, which combines cardio, weightlifting and gymnastic movements at high intensity for short periods of time or a specific number of rounds. On his rest days, he tries to help muscles recover through low-impact exercise like yoga or swimming.

Of course, working out isn’t the only aspect of the program—part of the discipline is the Paleo diet, popularly known as the caveman’s diet, which advocates natural food and more protein. “I try to follow this idea most of the time—a lot of protein, a bit of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a lot of fruits and vegetables,” Rocky says.

As a competitive athlete, Rocky also takes some dietary supplements and whey protein shakes to increase intake of vitamins and minerals. “A healthy diet is balanced, so occasionally I will enjoy pizza, a beer or ice cream,” he admits. “I am still a human who wants to enjoy life.”

Rocky has competed in several Crossfit competitions, which he continuously prepares for. “The main difference between regular training and training for a competition is focus and consistency,” Rocky explains. “Competition is mental, so I also make sure to prepare mentally.”

Despite having tried a number of different workouts before, Rocky particularly enjoys Crossfit for always keeping him on his toes. “I always want to try new things and combinations. Every day there is something different, so you will never be bored,” he shares, although he adds that the sense of community is something he appreciates. “One of the best things about choosing Crossfit is that motivation is everywhere. Every day I train, the other members are cheering me on to do my best.”

That sense of community, of course, is two-fold. “I am coaching now, and I can see that my achievements inspire others to achieve more,” Rocky continues. “Seeing how I can help others improve motivates me to keep coming back to this community. Really, it’s more like a family to me.”

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.