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LEADING WOMEN
To celebrate the 20 beautiful years of Zee Lifestyle as the ultimate source of lifestyle news in Cebu, we handpicked 12 strong and stylish women of Cebu from every age group. These women show us that independently building one’s strength of character and living one’s passion knows no age. From the beginning, Zee has always been empowering women, providing the Cebuanas a platform to express their beauty and confidence, share their passions, engage in economic and political participation which yields to viewing women with equality and respect that we deserve.
photography Jan Gonzales
creative director Melo Esguerra
art director Doro Barandino
sittings editor Shari Quimbo
beauty director Romero Vergara
makeup Arnauld, Janice Barillo and Nicko dela Peña
hair Jessie Egos and Jake Arias
fashion styling Clint Potestas
production assistants Patty Taboada and Katrina Labra
locale Marco Polo Plaza Hotel Cebu
Twelve women, two sets and one afternoon. That is how the Zee Lifestyle team decided to celebrate the title’s 20th anniversary issue—with a challenge that, in some ways, is one of our biggest productions yet.
The idea came along when publisher Eva Gullas and editor-at-large Melo Esguerra were discussing a cover story that would best represent the magazine’s history. From commissioning artistic depictions on Cebu to playing with the anniversary’s emerald theme, no idea had stuck until Melo suggested putting a series of women who had already been on the cover of Zee, again on the cover all together.
Oj Hofer and Margot Osmeña
Kryz Uy
Coming up with the list of names, of course, was no small feat. Our covers from the last 20 years have included several strong personalities—from philanthropists and politicians, to actors, and names to soon watch out for, our pages have seen them all. The challenge, then, was to come up with a list of women who had been driving forces in their respective fields when they had first appeared on the cover, and remain as powerful players even today.
Amparito Lhuillier, Kryz Uy, Alice Woolbright, Margot Osmeña and June Alegrado all wearing MIRANDA KONSTANTINIDOU
Photographer Jan Gonzales and creative director Melo Esguerra
With input from editors, both past and present, we rounded up 12 women from different age groups, fields and industries, who are all strong and passionate at whatever it is they do—Amparito Lhuillier, who remains the doyenne of Cebu society as a picture of elegance and class with her continuing efforts in business and social causes; the always-stylish Marguerite Lhuillier, herself an example of sophistication in all her efforts, whether business or otherwise; Margot Osmeña, who as a Cebu City Councilor has spearheaded many urban projects directed for the betterment of living in the city; hospitality mavens June Alegrado and Alice Woolbright, who are deeply involved in the rise of their brands, Bluewater properties and Beverly Hotel, respectively; Christina Garcia Frasco, the current Lilo-an Mayor advocating impressively progressive efforts in the area; former model Fiona King, now a major player in homegrown real estate with projects like Bloq Residences; the fitness enthusiast Danessa Onglatco who has espoused wellness with the opening of Yogahub; restaurateur Carla Yeung-McKowen who is behind the city’s hottest dining outlet, The Pig & Palm; designer Mia Arcenas, whose signature resort wear and accessories are representative of Cebu’s laid back lifestyle; Kym Maitland-Smith, who juggles efforts in swimsuit design through SOLTI Activewear and is building awareness for the vegan lifestyle; and Kryz Uy, whose online presence was a strong one even before fashion blogs were on anyone’s radar.
Kymberly Maitland-Smith
Makeup Artist Romero Vergara, June Alegrado and Hair Stylist Jessie Egos
An impressive bunch, for sure. These women properly embody the characteristics that Zee Lifestyle looks for in one who makes the cover—beauty, yes, but also elegance coupled with individuality, and always a strong drive to succeed in whatever efforts they are directed.
This, it turns out, was the fitting tribute to the years Zee has been Cebu’s premier lifestyle bible, as well as a sign of the things forthcoming. Our 12 cover stars may have been on our pages before, but if their current efforts are any indication, our pages will continue to see more of them in the future. And as continuing purveyors of what Cebu has to offer, Zee Lifestyle will happily be seeing them in the years to come.
FROM LEFT Marguerite wears CARY SANTIAGO; June wears PHILIP RODRIGUEZ; Mia wears MIA ARCENAS; Kryz wears ELIZABETH HALLIE; Amparito wears MONIQUE LHUILLIER; Alice wears PHILIP RODRIGUEZ; Fiona wears VANIA ROMOFF; Margot wears PHILIP RODRIGUEZ; Danessa wears OJ HOFER; Carla wears ALICE+OLIVIA; Christina wears DINO LLOREN
(This article had already been published in Zee Lifestyle’s December 2016 Emerald Issue, “Leading Women” on pages 140-155.)
]]>Although leading a hectic social life, the couple also yearned for the warmth and intimacy of family and home. They were ready to build their dream house when they realized that their sprawling home of thirty years in the heart of the Cebu City was being hemmed in by high-rise developments.
They turned to the venerable architectural firm of Unson and Jacinto to turn what was the former site of the well-known Salakot House, owned by former Governor Lito Osmeña, into their new residence.
Hunkered on top of Maria Luisa hills, open to the breezes, the Lhuillier house rose on this site, a hectare and a half of land commanding a spectacular 180-degree view of the metropolis below. The Lhuilliers could not have gotten farther away from it.
A long driveway runs to the front of the house, and solid- Wood double doors open to a grand foyer. Inside, the house is divided along the lines of the couple’s strong personalities. The west wing on the main level is where the master suite is located, accessed through an expansive study cum library. The east wing houses the more public areas: the formal dining room and the service hall composed of several well-appointed kitchens, the lanai with several entertaining sections, and a beautifully landscaped garden with a pool and its own entertaining pavilion. On the second level are three elegant, monochrome-coordinated guest rooms for the visiting Lhuillier children—Monique, Yvette, and Charles, and their respective spouses. Michael, the second son, lives in a nearby house with his wife Joanna.
The décor throughout the house is stately and traditional but with an eclectic approach. The antique and art collections are of superb quality and demonstrate how, when a piece of art or furniture is isolated to reveal its true form, it takes on an energy of its own in a contained explosion of style. But in the end, as Michel and Amparito have admirably demonstrated, the most ideal discussions are personal. “I worked very closely with the architect Teng Jacinto and the interior designer Conrad Onglao, so that there is not one single area in this house that does not reflect my personal taste,” Amparito says with pride.
DETAILS
The Lhuilliers’ art collection was acquired over a span of several decades and encompasses many styles and periods. The prized piece, however, is hung in the master’s bedroom: a portrait of Amparito by her uncle Don Antonio Garcia Llamas. Done in oil in 1963, it was acquired much later from the Luis Araneta art collection. It defines the beauty and charm of the lady of the house. Amparito and Michel’s daughter Monique is a renowned fashion designer who now has her own stemware and china-service line. For the tea setting at their house, Amparito proudly uses Monique’s creation for Royal Doulton.
]]>With March being National Women’s Month and March 8 International Women’s Day, we found it fitting to pay tribute. These women are no strangers to our pages, and will probably be fixtures on it for years to come. It’s not just for their beauty or their keen sense of style, of course. It is their elegance and individuality, and the strong drive to succeed in whatever their efforts are directed.
Amparito Lhuillier
When were you first on the cover of Zee? The August-October issue in 1996
Any memorable experience with Zee? It’s definitely my favorite!
What would you change about Cebu? There’s nothing to be changed. I love Cebu!
Wearing Philip Rodriguez
Margot Osmeña
Do you remember your first Zee cover? I have only faint recollections about my Zee cover shoot–might be attributed to my senior years! If my memory serves me right, it was done in Teresin Mendezona’s house.
What do you love most about Cebu? When I first arrived in Cebu around 30 years ago, it became very obvious to me that there was this strong sense of pride. “This is our home” kind of feeling was apparent in the Cebuanos. As we move forward, I pray that this attitude is passed on to our children and their children.
Wearing Philip Rodriguez
Mia Arcenas
Do you remember your first Zee cover? The first time I was on the Zee cover was the time I got back from the US in 2010. I had just finished my degree at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, and I was starting my career in fashion. I remember wearing Puey Quiñones with my first ever collection of accessories called Free Structure, made with abstract brass wire, crystal quartz and satin ribbons. Jon Unson shot it, while the hair and makeup was done by Romero.
Any memorable experience with Zee? The most memorable experience I’ve had with the magazine was when they co-hosted my first ever gala at the Oakridge Pavilion in Cebu. Zee has always been a big supporter ever since, and it was very heartwarming to have their full support.
Wearing Mia Arcenas
Fiona King
Do you remember your first Zee cover? My first cover was way back in college, when I was featured as a model. It was an unforgettable experience, but I must admit that the second time was bigger for me. It was in February 25, and I was honored to be featured as a real estate developer. Indeed, it was personally significant for me because Zee had seen and recognized my own life’s changes and growth, and found these to be cover-worthy.
What do you love about Cebu? I’m glad Cebu presents more opportunities for Cebuanos to thrive, evolve and make a difference. Cebu has always been bursting with opportunities, but we have to look around now to see that Cebu has exponentially grown. It is a city where entrepreneurs, artists, visionaries and people from various disciplines can make a name for themselves and become global without having to start in Manila. It is a city where people have become prouder of who we are and what we can do, and this pride has helped us to really redefine the Cebuano spirit and boldly succeed from the home-front to the world.
Wearing Vania Romoff
June Alegrado
Do you remember your first Zee cover? The first time I was on the cover was with good friends Bernie Aboitiz and Rochelle del Rosario. We had so much fun we didn’t notice the time. It felt like a get-together. Working with the Zee team was amazing. They took good care of us and were very professional. Artists were assigned to do our hair and makeup, and we were given choices of clothes and sandals to wear. The photographer and stylist helped us relax and loosen up, making it easy for us to project and feel comfortable in front of the camera. It was one of my most enjoyable experiences.
Changes that you’re happy about? I’m glad cellphones now have internet access. It has definitely made life more convenient–from buying clothes and paying bills to researching and learning new things. Keeping in touch with people to meeting new people. Accessing our music library, reading books and watching movies. But the past part of the smartphone is the camera, and the fact that my children and I can talk face to face even when they’re so far away.
Wearing Jun Escario
Christina Garcia Frasco
Do you remember your first Zee cover? The year was 2008. At that time, I had been living in Manila for 10 years already for school and work, and really missed Cebu. It was a memorable experience being on the cover of a magazine for the first time. I’m glad it was Zee, because to me, the magazine represented the best of Cebu–and being a Cebuana in Manila, I of course was fiercely proud of my home province.
Changes in Cebu you’re happy about? I’m happy to see Cebu strike a balance between being a center for world-class talent and locally made products, while being open to the influx of global brands and massive development. Hopefully our infrastructure can catch up very soon.
Wearing Dino Lloren
Kryz Uy
Do you remember your first Zee cover? Yes, of course! I was on the cover for the Youth issue, and I remember very clearly discussing with (then editor) David Cua his chosen copy for the cover. “Who doesn’t know Kryz Uy?” He was so set on having that line and I was so shy about it!
Changes in Cebu you’re happy about? The city is progressing quickly and we’re building a lot of companies, brands and even personalities that are competing well globally. That’s definitely something to be proud of!
Wearing Miranda Konstantinidou
Marguerite Lhuillier
Do you remember your first Zee cover? It is always flattering to be asked to do a cover, and of course, I willingly obliged. I had a great and fun time preparing for the shoot, what with the wonderful group from Zee Lifestyle. Everyone made the experience extra special.
Wearing Cary Santiago
Carla Yeung-McKowen
Do you remember your first Zee cover? It was an unforgettably fun experience. I was surrounded by the creative geniuses of Cebu–Cary Santiago, in Kenneth Cobonpue’s showroom, and shot by Dan Ong!
A memorable experience with Zee? The latest shoot. Being with other Cebuano women who I think are superbly gorgeous and successful, coupled with the “village” of creative minds who choreographed everything–it had to be my most memorable experience with Zee.
Wearing Stella McCartney
Danessa Onglatco
Do you remember your first Zee cover? Yes, of course, as it was a memorable fantastic experience for me. It was my first time to be a cover girl in a magazine, plus considering Zee is the only lifestyle magazine in Cebu. I was really honored to be chosen. I would like to take this opportunity to thank one of Cebu’s top designer Philip Rodriguez for choosing me, Zee’s former editor Jing Ramos and publisher Eva Gullas.
Changes in Cebu you’re happy about? That Cebu has continuously grown to be a tourism destination worldwide, and has seen growth in other industries like hospitality, real estate and the different types of BPO’s.
Wearing Miranda Konstantinidou
Kym Maitland-Smith
Do you remember your first Zee cover? I was on the cover with my sister Divine for the October 2014 issue. It was a blast! We had so much fun shooting together, and everyone who participated from the makeup artists and stylists to the photographer and the location were all great. I remember rushing through the shoot because we had a flight to catch that morning, but everything went super smoothly. Divine and I were very happy with the photos and the article.
Wearing Miranda Konstantinidou
Alice Woolbright
Do you remember your first Zee cover? Yes, the November 2011 issue. It was a fun and relaxing Thanksgiving shoot with my sisters held at our ancestral home.
A memorable experience with Zee? My most treasured experience was the mother-daughter shoot. The timing was perfect as Erika was off to college that year.
Wearing Alexander McQueen
photography Jan Gonzales | creative direction Melo Esguerra | locale Marco Polo Plaza Cebu
Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, December-January 2017 issue.
]]>Guests were pampered with beauty treatments from La Mer and MAC throughout the afternoon, until they had to dress up for cocktail hour. A five-course degustation by Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa executive chef Frank Bohdan and a raffle of exciting prizes including round trip tickets to the Maldives with a stay at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa preceded the main event of the evening—an exclusive fashion show featuring the A/W 2018 collection of Miranda Konstantinidou. Free flowing champagne, caviar and cheese kept the party going until the early hours of the morning.
The Zee Lifestyle Emerald Ball is presented by Arthaland, in cooperation with Mercedes-Benz Cebu, Rustan’s and Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu. Special thanks go out to Dedon Island, La Mer, MAC, and Jo Malone London.
photography Oliver Echevarria and Ezekiel Sullano
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Zee Lifestyle’s December-January 2017 Anniversary Issue: Marguerite Lhuillier, June Alegrado, Mia Arcenas, Kryz Uy, Amparito Lhuillier, Alice Woolbright, Fiona King, Margot Osmeña, Kymberly Maitland-Smith, Carla Yeung McKowen, Danessa Onglatco and Christina Garcia Frasco (Photography by Jan Gonzales)
Over the years, the Queen City’s most remarkable men and women of substance have graced the cover of Cebu’s premier lifestyle bible. From cultural icon Maia Franco on the maiden issue all the way to the talented Matteo Guidicelli for this year’s Fashion Issue (and his fourth cover at that!), Zee Lifestyle has accumulated quite the diverse roster of personalities in its two decade run.
This month, Zee Lifestyle brings back twelve of the most memorable faces on the cover.
We catch up with hoteliers Alice Woolbright and June Alegrado, restauranteur Carla Yeung-McKowen, social media influencers Kryz Uy and Kymberly Maitland-Smith, politicians Christina Garcia Frasco and Margot Osmeña, real estate developer Fiona King, fashion designer Mia Arcenas, entrepreneurs Marguerite Lhuillier and Danessa Onglatco, and philanthropist Amparito Lhuillier, and see how far they’ve come since being on the cover of Zee Lifestyle.
The inside pages also have the ladies decked head to toe in Miranda Konstantinidou. In preparation for her first ever fashion show in Cebu at the Emerald Ball, the Greek-German designer talks about her Cebu-manufactured pieces and how the city has become her home.
Zee Lifestyle’s December-January 2017 Anniversary Issue: The Emerald Ball
Alongside Miranda, Zee Lifestyle pays tribute to Kenneth Cobonpue, Philip Rodriguez, Cary Santiago, Arcy Gayatin, Vito Selma, Jun Escario, Monique Lhuillier and Lyndon Neri—eight Cebuano designers who have made a mark and become the most respected names in their respective industries in the past twenty years.
Additionally, girls-of-the-moment Stephanie Sharpe, Krishtal Freeland, Yasmine Sarlak and Alyssa Sacal and Cebu’s most promising talents Christina Linaban, Jarra Angbetic, Jonas Pacifico, and Chai Fonacier, Ted Paraiso, Maria Gigante and Samantha Solidum of Sutukil Sauce talk about being the city’s new breed, and why everyone should watch out for them.
Read more in Zee Lifestyle’s Anniversary Issue, out on stands this month. Grab your copies at National Bookstore and Fully Booked. For subscriptions, click here, or download the Magzter app on your device and search for ‘Zee Lifestyle’.
]]>The ceremony was led by the President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Elizabeth Sy, Cebu Province Governor Hon. Hilario Davide III, Jobel Davide, Executive Vice President Peggy Angeles together with Radisson Blu Cebu General Manager Laurent Boisdron.
The hotel lobby was filled with the harmonious voices and classical performances of soprano Iona Ventocilla, leading musical theater artist Arman Ferrer, the world-renowned Mandaue Children’s choir conducted by Dennis Sugarol, the University of the Visayas Chorale and Charlene Nogra.
Marking the festivity with joy and goodwill, the hotel also launched the 30 Days of Giving, a month long give back project of the hotel’s Responsible Business together with partner organizations, Vicente Sotto Memorial Hospital Children’s Ward, My Refuge House an aftercare shelter for rescued survivors of sexual abuse, exploitation and trafficking, Island Rescue Organization (IRO) for rescued animals and Basadours, a volunteer group of storytellers and reading advocates.
To kick off the campaign, for every attendance the hotel will be matching the number with a corresponding pair of slippers. The evening ended with over 300 pieces of slippers to be donated to Alpaco and Mainit Elementary School in Naga City. Guests can also make their donations by making a purchase of the Signature Afternoon High Tea or a gingerbread house. Books and toys are also accepted at the Giving Corner located at the hotel lobby.
RADISSON BLU CEBU
Sergio Osmeña cor. Juan Luna St.
6332. 402 9999 | website | Facebook
Besides showcasing the fashion from labels such as Aidan Mattox, Adrianna Papell, David Meister and Jessica Howard, the fashion show also unveiled Fashion Forum’s Cebuana style influencers—Zee Lifestyle editor Patty Taboada, businesswomen Susan Chua and Maureen Sanchez; master aesthetician Dianne Gandionco-Huang, florist Pinky Chang, architect Gerlie Ang, Rotary District 3860 District Governor Mary Ann Alcordo-Solomon, and philanthropist Amparito Lhuillier. The ladies were escorted by dashing gentlemen, most of whom were wearing suits and tuxedos from the SM Department Store.
The opening saw many of Cebu’s foodies in attendance as they sampled the British chef’s creations.
]]>Just like any other new restaurant in town, it can get overwhelming to decide what to have, especially with The Pig & Palm’s selection of mouthwatering dishes. With Zee Lifestyle present at the media launch right after it opened, we give you some of the early favorites that’ll definitely keep you coming back for more.
SQUID CRACKERS
Squid crackers, potato aioli and black onion
Don’t be wary of the black color! The squid crackers, potato aioli and black onion is a light appetizer, with the dip bringing out the unique flavors of the squid. This would surely stave off the hunger pangs while making you look forward to the other courses.
CHICKEN KARAAGE
Chicken karaage and sriracha mayonnaise
When you have sriracha mayonnaise, you can’t really go wrong with anything… especially not with The Pig & Palm’s chicken karaage. It’s a slightly heavier appetizer so tasty that you’re going to want to keep grabbing seconds. This, or the main courses? Yep, this definitely makes setting priorities difficult.
OLD-FASHIONED PORK TERRINE
Old-fashioned pork terrine, pistachio, “onion-onion & onion”
The old-fashioned pork terrine is pleasantly cold to the taste buds, the temperature allowing for an irresistible burst of flavor. Just like the karaage, this loaf is quite the delicious treat that would easily make you decide to have it as a main course. And, no, we can’t really blame anyone for that.
KINILAW
Kinilaw of shrimp, calamansi, pickled papaya, chili and coconut
Every Cebuano knows what kinilaw is. Jason Atherton elevates this delicacy of sorts with a fresh take, serving the kinilaw on shells set on a bed of ice. The zesty flavors brought about by the calamansi makes this dish ridiculously addicting.
ROASTED SUCKLING PORK
Roasted suckling pork, soya onion gravy, apple, mustard leaf
Sure, call it lechon, but you’ll have to admit this is roasted pork unlike anything else before. The meat is temptingly tender, the skin roasted to that perfect crisp, and that soya onion gravy is a surprising twist that makes a lot of sense. If there’s a star in Atherton’s Pig & Palm menu, this would definitely be it.
Do you agree with our list? Sound off in the comments with your other recommendations!
See photos from The Pig & Palm’s grand opening below:
THE PIG & PALM
Open Tuesday to Sunday
8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
MSY Tower, Cebu Business Park
website | 63. 929 481 4668
Zee Lifestyle’s August-September 2016 Fashion Issue: Matteo Guidicelli (Photography by Jan Gonzales/Styling by Roland Magalang of Bergamo/Grooming by Sheryl Songsong)
Gracing the cover is the Cebuano charmer Matteo Guidicelli. An actor, singer and athlete, Matteo talks about his life in the limelight, intimate details about his relationship with a certain pop princess, and gearing up for the future with Sun Life Asset Management.
With the Philippines’ fashion industry evolving, it’s only appropriate to focus on homegrown talents, from the pioneering efforts of Jennifer Rimaz and Dexter Alazas to utilize local fabrics, to the various fashion-related endeavors of Celyn Sala, Jojo Martinez, Abegail Sanchez and Darren Morandante.
Young Cebuano talents also take the spotlight, with designers Free Barbusa, IA Coca, Rachel Rama, Rachelle Lim, Danica Hermoso, July Gelantaga-an, Dannah Paclibar and Janine Reserv showcasing their most promising pieces. Kiko Kintanar, Edward James Castro, Ixa Escario and Bree Esplanada also inject a bit of art into their designs, inspired by artists Thom Jopson, Daot, Golda King and Kenichi Wani.
Meanwhile, the most respected names in Cebu fashion Arcy Gayatin, Philip Rodriguez and Cary Santiago, with the special participation of Jun Escario, sit down with fashion editor OJ Hofer for a challenge—determining the city’s style setters. Timeless beauties Annie Aboitiz, Margot Osmeña, Rosebud Sala, Teresin Mendezona and Amparito Lhuillier lead the roster of Cebu’s most fashionable, along with Danessa Onglatco, Fiona King, Christine Taylor-Pelaez, Jenifer Martinez and Christina Garcia-Frasco.
Read all these and more on Zee Lifestyle’s Fashion Issue, out this month. Grab your copies at National Bookstore and Fully Booked. For subscriptions, click here or download Magzter on your mobile device.
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