People

Most Wanted

This year’s set of bachelors project a singular sophistication that is too charming to resist.

This year’s set of bachelors project a singular sophistication that is too charming to resist.

A lot has been said about men who are impeccably dressed. And with the emergence of debonair characters on our TV screens—from Mad Men’s 1960’s collection of dapper advertising honchos who deliver lines while dressed in tailored three-piece suits and even the occasional hat, to the sharp-tongued and equally sharply dressed Harvey Specter on lawyer drama Suits—it’s clear that there’s a lot more to say.

Of course, it’s never just the clothes that make the man. What creates the magnetic pull to someone well-dressed is more than just the pants-shirt-jacket combination; what grabs attention, and eventually keeps it, is an attitude that is as important an accessory as a classic watch or thoroughly shined leather shoes—demonstrating a confidence that stems from success in various ventures and a determination to get further ahead.

This month, Zee Lifestyle features the men that Cebu will soon be going mad for—and not just for their broad shoulders and how good they look in sunglasses. What makes them really attractive is the success in their respective career endeavors at a generally young age, the passionate drive to do more for themselves and the place they now call home, and easygoing personalities that get them on everyone’s radar. And though said personalities are accessories enough, they up the ante with sunglasses and watches from Rudy Project, and sharp apparel from Marithé + François Girbaud. Truly, these five fashionable gentlemen are confident, competent and dedicated to what they do; and let’s be honest, the good looks don’t hurt either.

VINCE LAMPERT

It may seem that the way Vince Lampert landed in Cebu 11 years ago was an act of serendipity. He started his career with DEDON during the summer of 2001 in Luneburg, Germany packing products for German customer deliveries, when his efficiency garnered the attention of the company’s owner who sent him out of Germany for work. As fate would have had it, the next 24 hours found Vince in Cebu, where his fondness for the weather, culture and people was reason enough to stay. Now, the 29-year-old is the managing director of DEDON Cebu Manufacturing. But his determination means there’s still more to come. “Big ambition, big plans!”

What is your career mantra?

“Give more, expect less.” Whether it is personal or career wise, when you give more of yourself, it will come back to you a thousand fold… I see it as a kind of “pass it forward.” You pass on your kindness; in hopes that that person passes on kindness to another person.

What is the best quality you can offer a woman?

Integrity, it’s the total package. A man with integrity not just shows sincere unconditional love but also encompasses pure respect, adoration and all other values that make you a “real man.”

When you look at your old photos, what was your “what was I thinking?!” moment, fashion-wise?

Flashy/sporty mode. I was fully into soccer and playing my sport, practicing three times a week and having weekend games and tournaments. Wearing jeans and a polo shirt at that time was impossible for me.

We’re all still kids inside. What makes your inner child come out?

We all have an inner child in us and sometimes we need to get in touch with [our inner child] to enjoy and appreciate what life truly brings. I remember this quote from George Bernard Shaw that says, “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”

JONATHAN KENNEDY

Jonathan Kennedy began his career working at the front office of the Montreal Canadiens, but he always knew that he eventually wanted to start his own business. After several small web business ventures, Jon, along with partners JP Bisson and Diana Quartin, landed in Cebu last year with Clicking Labs, a company that offers marketing services for companies who want to create a strong online presence. But more than building a successful business, Clicking Labs credits their success over the past year to finding the right people for the job, and are dedicated to creating an empowering and happy work environment. Of course, Jon’s roots in sports remain—he also runs www.asportinglife.co, where he highlights the creative side to sports.

What is your career mantra?

Helping others along their paths somehow helps you along yours.

What’s next for you?

The next step is to work hard on developing a culture of happy and motivated employees. The Zappos.com model is one that many employers can benefit from. They built a billion dollar company on the concept of happy employees and outstanding customer service. We want to become the best place to work in the Philippines while reaching impressive growth and sales figures.

The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Do you agree?

Definitely. Nothing makes me happier than someone going out of their way to prepare a meal for me.

What’s your go-to aphrodisiac?

Sr. Pedro Lechon Manok

Which Mad Man are you?

Don Draper. I’m the creative problem solver, I love crisp white shirts and I’m somewhat of an online ad man.

JP BISSON

Jean-Patrick Bisson must have entrepreneurship in his blood—starting out with lemonade stands at an early age in Canada before moving on to starting a landscaping company with friends in high school and selling items from China through the classified ads. The internet proved to be a turning point, with the inception of Clicking Labs, which he founded with Jon Kennedy and Diana Quartin. The business led them to Cebu, and over the past year, Clicking Labs has progressed to a new office and a growing staff of 50. In his downtime, JP enjoys reading and getting massages, although one of the things he enjoys most about Cebu is having the beach just a short drive away.

What advice do you have for the Filipino people to get to where you are now?

Focus, guts and a willingness to go the extra mile. I’ve spoken to many brilliant Cebuanos who would make great entrepreneurs but they often lack the confidence or the family support to make the leap and be willing to fail.

Who is your idol, career-wise?

I admire many entrepreneurs but Steve Jobs is at the top of that list. He built a company from his garage, got fired, then came back and pulled the biggest turnaround in business history.

Are you single?

I have a girlfriend who’s also my business party. Crazy? Yeah I know.

What is the best quality you can offer a woman?

Understanding that women are meant to be loved, not understood.

What sports do you play?

I love hockey. We’ve even started a ball hockey game every Wednesday night at the Apas Barangay basketball court. [Shameless plug!] In Canada, I used to snowboard but it’s been a while now.

SAM GULLAS

At 27, Gerald Anthony Gullas Jr, or Samsam, began his career learning the business before becoming the assistant vice-president for administration and finance at the University of the Visayas. Upon the behest of his grandfather and father, he spent the early days of his career being transferred to various departments; now, he assists the university’s administrators in managing the school. He also manages the university’s basketball teams, and is the basketball and sports commissioner for Talisay City. But one thing that’s really important is family. In fact, his decision to run for public office in the 2013 elections was inspired by his grandfather, Eddie Gullas.

What advice do you have for the Filipino people to get to where you are now?

Always trust family. They will always know what is best for you. You may argue along the way, but at the end of the day, they will always have your best interests at heart.

A way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Do you agree?

Yes! I think it comes from my shortcomings as a cook as well. As I always say, the microwave was and always will be the best invention for a single man.

What sports do you play?

Basketball. I used to practice with the UV basketball teams everyday but since I got injured last November, I haven’t played basketball. But hopefully I’ll be back soon.

What is your opinion on politics in the country?

I think we are going in the right direction. Filipinos are passionate. I am very sure that if all of us are united towards one common goal, like how we are during a Pacquiao fight, the Philippines will surely move forward.

We’re all still kids inside, what makes you inner child come out?

It definitely comes out when I’m with my brothers and sisters. I may be the oldest in a bunch of five but when I’m with them, I basically act like the youngest.

GIO PUCCINI

Half Italian, half Columbian Gio Puccini’s stay in the Philippines began as a vacation in neighboring provinces when he landed a job with ePerformax Contact Centers & BPO in Manila. His extended stay allowed more vacation time and Cebu quickly became one of his favorite destinations, which made his appointment as program director at the ePerformax office in Cebu a welcome assignment. However, most people might know him better as Gio Salvador, the name he adapted while sharing the screen with Boy Abunda, Aiai De Las Alas, Eugene Domingo, John Lloyd Cruz, among others as a model, host and actor. Now at 26, Gio has settled into the Philippine lifestyle comfortably, although he believes working on the beach would be a great addition to his routine.

How did you reach where you are in your career?

Sticking to what I believe in and verbalizing what has been thoroughly thought out—whether it’s an idea or solution to address challenges, issues and opportunities—has helped catapult my career. When you work in a company like ePerformax that values its people and believes that everyone’s opinions matters, I encourage everyone to speak up.

What is your career mantra?

Work hard, play hard. Be productive, healthy and happy.

What do you look for in a woman?

Nothing is more beautiful than an intelligent woman. I also love one who is good at time management, and is able to take off to visit a new area at a whim.

When you look at your old photos, what was your “what was I thinking?!” moment, fashion-wise?

Wearing camo cargo shorts. I was a nerd in high school, so it’s okay.

What sports do you play?

I’ll play anything although I’m not a pro. I just joined the ePerformax soccer team. In high school, I played water polo, which was tons of fun. I also like hobie catamarans, surfing, pretty much anything in the water.

by Shari Quimbo
sittings editor Katsy Borromeo
production manager David Jones Cua
creative director Mikey Sanchez
production assistant Philip Lapinid IV
hair and make-up Gari Son and Jomer Arances
photographer Jan Gonzales
locale The Rhine Suite and La Gondola at The Waterfront Hotel and Casino Lahug

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.