Getting over the VDay Blues

http://www.interaksyon.com/lifestyle/631
By Ana Valenzuela · Tuesday, February 14, 2012 · 12:11 pm



February 14 is day of the year that singles shun the most. Comments such as “why celebrate, it is not even a holiday?”, “everybody’s got somebody but me,” and “kapag ba single malungkot, bakit lahat ba ng taken masaya?” would fill social networking sites.

After all, what makes this day so special? Why spend your hard earned money on roses, chocolates, and what not’s just to profess your undying love for someone. Isn’t Valentine’s Day supposed to be a saint’s feast day not a commercial hype to promote love and couples? According to research, $1.7 billion have been spent on flowers on Valentines Day in the US alone and $116.21 is the average money spent on a Valentine’s dinner date in 2011. Couldn’t you say that you love them each day and make those memories memorable?

Hey, I’m not being bitter. Even though I’ve been single most of my life, I get to enjoy Valentines Day with a date. Since high school, I’ve been spending Valentines Day with my barkada. It’s just us girls, the four of us together.

I remember the first time we spent Valentines together at my friend’s house, our usual tambayan. We cooked pasta, carbonara, and had chicken, and a bottle of wine. Last year’s date had a little bit more of tweaking as we were already working. We met early as we decided to do something special—feed and take care of children at the House of Joy in Tayuman. Afterwards, we had some pork-silog at one of my friend’s favorite carinderia at the University Belt, and got all made up and headed to Cloud 9 in Antipolo, to get a view overlooking the city.

There we were surprised by one of my friend’s partner. She had with her flowers, not only for my friend, but for all of us. She gave Mela a dozen hand-tied bouquet of roses, and to each of us, a single long stemmed rose. Now, I wonder, what is it that made this day so special that Doris would go out of the way to track us down, wait for the right moment to surprise us, particularly Mela, with flowers?

Especially since flowers cost more than a movie ticket or two on the day of hearts. On Dangwa Flower Market, a bouquet of assorted flowers, ranging from Malaysian mums, gerberas, and stargazers, would cost from P200 to P450. A bouquet of roses would run from P300 to P650 depending on whether you would like a teddy bear and a balloon to go with the flowers. A bulk of roses, usually two dozen, would cost P200, however the vendor did warn me that the price would increase by night and as Valentines day approaches. Apparently the cost of the flowers rises up three times the regular price.

If you are the type who does not like to haggle and order from a flower shop like Paraiso flowers, which has a store at Waltermart Makati or online through manilablooms.com, a dozen flowers cost about P2,500 to P8,000 depending on the type of flowers and the arrangement.

People go all out and spend thousands of money on Valentines Day and they make it so special like it’s their anniversary. (Heck, some people don’t even celebrate their anniversary.) A great tasting chocolate bar lik Machiavelli costs P125 per 25 grams. A room at the Manila Hotel runs between P7,250 to P18,250. You could also buy an airplane ticket to a local or Southeast Asia destination with that.

Khay, one of my barkada, spent her Valentines a week late last year. Her boyfriend of more than four years gave her bouquet of assorted flowers. Then, she and her boyfriend went up to Tagaytay and enjoyed the food and also each other’s company at the Greek Taverna. Although the celebration for the day of hearts was delayed, they still made the effort to do so.

It might be more than the smile that you see on your loved ones’ face. Couples would not save their money and look for the best gifts, reserve in the best restaurants so as to have a memorable evening together. It’s more than the cliché-ish answer: love, or to be more exact, part of that is.

Even though you are single, you are still expecting something out of February 14. Maybe from a secret admirer or maybe even a smile or a “hi” from an office crush. If not, then why bother with all the fuss about Valentine’s Day.

I may not feel the way couples feel on Valentines—so much in love with their pupils dilating. But, at least I feel special without having the need to spring for a high cost bouquet of roses or a Valentine’s gift for anybody. I maybe the only single person in the group, since time immemorial; still I thank my friends for making me feel that Valentines day is not all about the couples, but also a day to spend single blessedness. Who knows what we would do next this year?

Ten good things to do for the long weekend break

27-Oct-11, 1:34 PM | Ana Valenzuela, for InterAksyon.com

ANILA, Philippines - Flowers? Check. Candles? Check. Now that you're all set for the annual ritual of honoring your dearly departed, but are still opting to stay in the city over the long holiday, you could still have that relaxing, fun weekend break anyway. Here are some ideas to keep you going.

1. Get shokot to the max. Can’t get enough of the hit film Zombadings? Now, enter the Zombadings Shokot House at Eastwood City Walk. This house of horror will either scare you so much that you would race for the exit or make you laugh like the movie did. Open until October 31, from 5PM to 11PM. Entrance fee is P100. Midnight screenings are also scheduled at the Eastwood Mall Cinema on October 28 to 30, go if you haven’t seen it yet or go and watch it again and again! For more information, call 709-0888.

2. Much ado about Resorts World. What? You haven’t been to Resorts World Manila? Well, this weekend is the time to satisfy your curiosity to find out what’s all the fuss about Resorts World Manila. Check out its high-end bars, casinos and luxury malls, and while you’re at it, visit the Newport Mall for its Halloween Cocktail, held daily until November 15, and Grand Masquerade on October 30.

Talk about responsible drinking, in Halloween Cocktails,11 participating restaurants have concocted drinks---and a portion of each sale will go to Alay sa mga may Kapansanan Association Inc. Feeling thirsty now? Get the gang together for drinks tonight and go resto-hopping for drink like Johnny Chow's Bloodfire, Crisostomo's Sisa's Ghost, New Orleans Diablo Mojito, and UCC Cafe Terrace's Vampire's Kiss, to name a few. Resorts World is located at Newport Boulevard, Newport City, Cybertourism Zone, Pasay City.

3. Hide in style. Stop worrying about household stuff (yes, washing dishes or making up your bed for a change!) and pamper your family with a stay at a luxury hotel like Acacia Hotel. The newest five-star hotel in Alabang comes with all the deluxe amenities you’ll ever need; reviews have raved about its efficient and warm service. The swimming pool, gym, and spa areas, however, are still non-operational. Till end of October, the hotel’s deluxe rooms are at P4,888 nett or 55 percent off the published rates. On October 30, the hotel has planned its Creep-tacular Forest Halloween Party at its new Samanae activity center. Acacia Hotel is at 5400 Asia Drive corner Commerce Avenue, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinglupa. For inquiries and reservations, call (632) 720-2000 and (632) 588-5888.

4. Get lost in space. Explore outer space at the Hotel InterContinental Manila’s Grand Ballroom and party with extra-terrestrials and space heroes. The hotel provides a lot of games, activities---trick or treats to arts and crafts--and of course, good food. The hotel is located at 1 Ayala Avenue, Edsa. For information call (632) 793-7000.

5. Sit back, relax, watch a movie. Scare each other’s wits out, and go see the horror and suspense flick that topped the US Box office weekend (and toppled Hugh Jackman’s latest starrer, Real Steel) Paranormal Activity 3. Although it is the third movie from the franchise, it is actually a prequel as it is set 18 years before the first two films. Paranormal Activity 3 is sure to be a spine-tingling treat for the Halloween. If a scary movie is too much, then the Three Musketeers would fill your weekend. The movie stars Orlando Bloom, Mila Jovovich, Luke Evans, and Logan Lerman.

6. Watch The Sound of Music. The Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT) at Resorts World Manila is alive with the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein, as it stages the well-loved and award wining Broadway musical. Joana Ampil and Cris Villonco star as Maria, while Audie Gemora alternates with Ed Feist as Captain Georg von Trapp. The show will run until December 11, 2011. Show times are 8 PM on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays; 3 PM and 8 PM on Saturdays and 3 PM on Sundays. For ticket reservations and inquiries, visit any Ticketworld outlet or the Resorts World Manila Box Office.

7. See Peter Pan fly. Catch some fairy dust at the Meralco Theater, Ortigas as Repertory Philippines and Stages presents Peter Pan. In the lead role is Sam Concepcion, who plays the boy who never grows up. He shares the stage with Menchu Lauchengco, Jaime Del Mundo, Tippy Dos Santos and Cara Barredo, among others. Show time is on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00PM, with a matinee show on Saturdays and Sundays at 3:30PM. The play runs till October 30. For more information call Repertory Philippines at (632) 571-6926 or (632) 571-4941.

8. See a concert. Spend the night of October30 listening to the relaxing music of international superstar, Jason Mraz. The singer-songwriter will have a one-night show at the Araneta Colisuem where he will perform hits like “I’m Yours” and “Lucky”. Tickets are priced at P800 to P3,500. For more information call Ticketnet at 911-5555.

9. Listen to orchestra music. The Cultural Center of the Philippines presents Greenilda versus the Litterbugs: A Halloween Family Concert on October 30, 2:30 PM at the CCP Little Theater. The concert features the Metro Manila Concert Orchestra led by Josefino Chino Toledo. Let your kids learn about orchestra music and environmental conservation. For more information and ticket reservations, call the CCP Marketing Office at 8321125. Students can enjoy a 50-percent discount while seniors get 20 percent off. Ticket prices range from P500 to P800.

10. Can’t beat ‘em, then party! But, of course, if you enjoy the thrill of seeing people in their scariest costumes and just having a good time, then join the parties scattered all over the metro. One big gig to go to is Black Party Manila 2011 at Orosa corner Nakpil Streets in Malate, Manila. Fun starts at 10 PM.

Fairy Tales Do Come True

Duchess Catherine Fairy Tales Do Come True By ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA MOD June 2011 Some fairy tales start with “Once upon a time, in a faraway land...” This one starts in 2001 at the University of St. Andrews where William, second in line to the throne of Commonwealth realms, was taking up geography, and Catherine Elizabeth Middleton was studying History of Art.

Kate and William were only friends, taking up a subject or two together, up until Kate modeled in a student fashion show that made the prince notice her and tell a friend, “Wow! Kate’s hot!” A year after, their friendship blossomed into something special. They shared a flat for the last two years of their college life. Although they broke up in 2007, their friendship remained intact, as they had often been seen together. The couple announced their engagement on November 16 last year. Prince William proposed to Kate at a secluded lake by Mount Kenya. After years of romance, the couple said “I will” at the Westminster Abbey, where William’s grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, was wed, last April 29, 2011. The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Rowan Williams, officiated the ceremony. Like everyone else, William noticed how Kate looked in her Grace Kelly-inspired gown by Sarah Burton from Alexander McQueen. “You look beautiful,” William told his bride when she reached the altar. Kate followed the old adage. She had something old—the lace of her gown came from a 19th-century Irish tradition; something borrowed, which is a 1936 Cartier Halo tiara and was Queen Elizabeth II’s no less; something new—her diamond earrings were a gift from her parents; and something blue, which was a ribbon of blue interwoven into her gown. Meanwhile, William wore his Irish Guards Mounted Officer’s uniform in Guard of Honor Order with a Forage Cap. He had on a red tunic which featured the Irish Guards’ arrangement of buttons in groups of four, a gold and crimson sash, and gold sword slings, although he did not carry a sword. “We were supposed to have a small family affair,” Prince William said to Kate’s dad, Michael Francis Middleton. Unfortunately, their celebrity status forbade them to do so. Two thousand of the couple’s friends and family, and dignitaries watched them inside the abbey, and an estimated two billion from their television screens around the world. Kate’s wedding promise was similar to Princess Diana—“Love, comfort, honour, and keep” him, omitting the word obey from the vows. Kate’s sister, Pippa, was her maid of honor, while Harry, William’s brother, stood as his best man. People were trying to match the two up, but it seemed like they weren’t hit by Cupid’s arrows. Prince Harry reportedly told his on-and-off girlfriend, Chelsea Davy, “You’re next.” After their wedding, the newlyweds were given the title Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. TOTAL ESCAPE! THEIR wedding may be so public, but William and Kate, now known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, managed to escape to the islands of the Seychelles—specifically to the North Island—for their honeymoon. The Duke and Duchess weren’t the first celebs to seek the solace of Seychelles. Among those reported to have enjoyed the privacy of the romantic destination were Bill Gates, who was on Fregate Island; Paul McCartney and ex-wife Heather Mills on Cousin, another island in the Seychelles; and Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt on North Island. David and Victoria Beckham have also vacationed there. The islands boast of private villas, each with its own guest relations officer, a butler, and a chef all ready to give you, well, a royal treatment. Kate and William spent their first night as husband and wife at the Buckingham Palace. Then, days after, hand in hand, they walked to where a helicopter waited for them to ferry them to their honeymoon escape. Kate donned a light blue dress, dark jacket, and platform shoes, while William wore a casual pale blue shirt and navy jacket. The union of William and Kate has revitalized the British monarchy as hundreds of thousands cheered the couple throughout their wedding rites. Millions more watched the royal spectacle on television, witnessing the couple pledge “I will,” during the nuptial ceremonies at the Westminster Abbey, and delighting over the couple’s much awaited kiss—two kisses, actually—on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. Kate, escorted by her dad, rode a Rolls-Royce on her way to her altar date with William. At that exact moment, the sun lit her way, a sign, television hosts exclaimed, that the heavens must be blessing this royal union.

School Sweethearts

School Sweethearts
By ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA
Published MOD May 2011

THE school isn’t just an avenue for learning but for interaction. It is where students meet other students mostly their age to talk about school work and more often, their personal life. The interaction that they share in their daily activities build their emotional connection that they need to deal with the changes and problems that may come later on in life. Thus, the school makes for a perfect place to find a partner.
But does a campus romance ensure a lifelong commitment? Love Notes
Never Lonely
For keeps. Having a committed relationship guarantees you have someone to talk to and share the good and the bad moments with. Your boyfriend can bring out the best in you by being a study partner and reminding you of upcoming exams and due dates. He’d serve more of an inspiration rather than a distraction.
For kicks. Loving someone doesn’t always assure the kind of relationship that both of you are involved in. There might be constant fights over petty things that keep your relationship from any progression, whatsoever.

The social network
For keeps. Your group of friends suddenly grows when you have a boyfriend, because his friends become your friends as well.
For kicks. You both know that you are each other’s BF-GF, but also know of the other players in the field which you most of the time check out. Like, you constantly laugh at his best bud’s jokes, but fail to make out what is funny in what he says.

Spoiled Brat
For keeps. Need a cuddle? A hug? A boyfriend automatically spoils his girlfriend with one, sometimes even with material things.
For kicks. Being with your boyfriend all the time makes you more attached to him, more often than not, leaving no time for other matters. It is worse when you fail to see your friends or study for an exam, but can always squeeze him and his barkada into your schedule.

The Big Plans
For keeps. You know that you both are headed somewhere. So, talking about serious matters such as the future does not scare you both. This is good as it allows you to build something together.
For kicks. You have different interests and goals in life. Whenever he talks about the future, you simply nod your head and go with the flow of the conversation.

School Sweethearts

School Sweethearts By ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA Published MOD May 2011 THE school isn’t just an avenue for learning but for interaction. It is where students meet other students mostly their age to talk about school work and more often, their personal life. The interaction that they share in their daily activities build their emotional connection that they need to deal with the changes and problems that may come later on in life. Thus, the school makes for a perfect place to find a partner. But does a campus romance ensure a lifelong commitment?

Love Notes Never Lonely For keeps. Having a committed relationship guarantees you have someone to talk to and share the good and the bad moments with. Your boyfriend can bring out the best in you by being a study partner and reminding you of upcoming exams and due dates. He’d serve more of an inspiration rather than a distraction. For kicks. Loving someone doesn’t always assure the kind of relationship that both of you are involved in. There might be constant fights over petty things that keep your relationship from any progression, whatsoever. The social network For keeps. Your group of friends suddenly grows when you have a boyfriend, because his friends become your friends as well. For kicks. You both know that you are each other’s BF-GF, but also know of the other players in the field which you most of the time check out. Like, you constantly laugh at his best bud’s jokes, but fail to make out what is funny in what he says. Spoiled Brat For keeps. Need a cuddle? A hug? A boyfriend automatically spoils his girlfriend with one, sometimes even with material things. For kicks. Being with your boyfriend all the time makes you more attached to him, more often than not, leaving no time for other matters. It is worse when you fail to see your friends or study for an exam, but can always squeeze him and his barkada into your schedule. The Big Plans For keeps. You know that you both are headed somewhere. So, talking about serious matters such as the future does not scare you both. This is good as it allows you to build something together. For kicks. You have different interests and goals in life. Whenever he talks about the future, you simply nod your head and go with the flow of the conversation.

Catch!

Catch!
By ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA
Photography by Angelight Classic Portaits

as MOD goes back to its tradition of featuring fresh faces, we feature four girls who toss a lot of promise. They’re running, jumping on their way to fitness, wellness, and, for sure, to fame and fortune. Catch them if you can! Meet Crissia Del Atienza, Abbygale Monderin, Monique Manuel, and Karina Tamminen. An Accountancy student at the University of Santo Tomas, Crissia was Miss Puerto Galera and represented the municipality at the Miss Philippines Earth 2010. Abbygale is a Nursing senior at World Citi Colleges and a Binibining Caloocan title-holder. Monique, who has been modeling for four years, represented Bataan during the Miss Earth 2009, where she ended as one of the runners-up, and is one of the candidates in this year’s Binibining Pilipinas. Finland-born Karina is a volunteer nurse.

MOD sits down with these four lovely ladies to talk about beauty, wellness, life, and everything in between.
MOD: How do you stay fit?
Karina: Gym, cardio, and muscle weights. Before, I was into martial arts, like krav maga. It’s self-defense, but it’s also a good exercise.
Monique: I do a lot of running. I try to do it maybe once a month. Back in grade school, I did a form of martial arts called Kuntaw. It’s founded by a Filipino, but it’s more popular in the Middle East. I made it to brown belt and I joined competitions as well. Unfortunately, one time during training, na-twist and na-dislocate yung knee ko. Since then, hindi na ako nakapag-martial arts. Nag-therapy ako for like a month for that. Thankfully, okay na yung left knee.
Abbygale: I jog every morning and then in the afternoon I play badminton.
Crissia: I don’t have time to go to the gym because I’m really focused on my studies. I just do a couple of exercises in our village, like jogging, because there is a field there. When I was in grade school, I was really into volleyball, but now I don’t have time for that anymore.




What’s your daily diet like?
C: I don’t have dinner.
A: No rice. I’ve stopped eating rice since June. Kasi ako, pag kumain ng rice, madami talaga. So far, I’ve lost 20 pounds with my no-rice diet. Iwas din sa chocolates and other sweets, and more on water. I drink more than 10 glasses of water a day.
M: Since I started working out at the gym last year, I’ve been following this diet program that comprises of more protein like meat and dairy products. As for meat, I just eat chicken, pero steamed lang. I have a cheat day naman eh. For five days, I have to follow my strict diet plan and I’ve managed to do just that. I eat carbohydrates as well, like rice. For your body to absorb the protein, it needs carbs. If you don’t eat carbs, the protein will be used by your body for energy. When you say diet, it should be healthy, like fruits, veggies, protein, and a little bit of carbs.
K: I don’t eat rice. It’s not that I don’t want to, but since I’m from Finland, our staple food is potatoes. Basically, I eat white meat and veggies. It is still weird for me—rice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
What’s the first thing you do in the morning?
M: First thing that I do in the morning, tignan ko yung sarili ko sa mirror for a while. Ha-ha. I also drink one glass of water. It started out just a habit, but then I heard that it’s good pala. You sleep for almost eight hours, your body burns a lot of fats, and then, when you wake up, hindi ka naman exhausted, but your body needs to be hydrated with water.
K: Same thing. Yeah, I drink water. At least three glasses of water.
C: First, I do a bit of stretching. My class kasi is at 7 a.m., so I have to prepare agad. Since I’m studying in UST and I live in Taguig, I really have to wake up early.
A: I read the Bible, drink lots of water, exercise, wipe my face with ice, and weigh myself because I’m weight-conscious.

How do you handle stress?
M: I worked in a corporate setting before so I know that stress is good for me. I don’t consider it as a pressure, although somehow nape-pressure ako. Emotionally, I think of it as a positive energy since when you’re stressed, you end up doing your best. It’s because you let stress drive you. When I’m stressed, the more I strive hard. I also pray at the same time. Somehow if you have that spiritual capacity, the more you can do your work and the more you can do it efficiently.
K: I agree with Monique, stress is good. But of course, too much stress is not healthy. In small amounts, it’s healthy for me as it keeps me motivated.
A: Whenever I’m stressed, I pray and read the Bible. Laughter also works.
C: Stress is inevitable, but as a student, I have to cope with it, simply because I need to be successful in every activity that I engage in. So I just look at it positively. I always smile and pray.
How do you cope with anger?
C: When I am angry, it’s really difficult for me to repress my feelings. I show it. When I’m angry, I say things that are not pleasing to the ears and might hurt others’ feelings. But there are times that I simply keep quiet and pray that it will pass.
A: I talk to God, ‘Lord, ano ba itong feelings na meron ako?’ I just want it to go away. Kung meron man akong taong nakagalit, I first say sorry to that person, and then to God. I don’t want to last a day without saying sorry to that certain person.
M: Before, I used to be a nagger. But as I grew older, I’ve learned to handle my anger because it won’t do you good eh. If you kindle your fire for a particular period of time, ikaw din yung talo, and I always think, what will happen after? What will be the consequence if I say this to that person? When I’m angry, I breathe and pray.
K: I can’t remember the last time that I’d been really, really angry. If I’m upset, I just stay quiet and think through the night instead of saying things I might regret later.


What keeps you going?
K: Faith in God.
M: It’s easier for a person to get a life, because somehow you are bound for the next day, but to get a meaningful life and for it to last a lifetime, it’s hard. It’s when your values come in. If you know your purpose in life, somehow you will prosper. So kung makakatulong yung ginagawa mo, every day, you work towards achieving that goal. My goal is to establish my own business. Every day is a factor towards achieving my goal.
C: For me life is a test. It is only a test.
M: Ang hard naman ng view mo sa life. He-he.
C: We can’t always be happy. There will always be obstacles to our happiness. All you have to do is stay strong and keep in mind that everything happens for a reason.
A: Life is a gift. Whatever mistake ang nagawa mo, there will always be tomorrow, para matama yun.

You will not go wrong when you are grounded on the right values’

You will not go wrong
when you are grounded
on the right values’

By ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA
Published MOD March 2011

SHE may be pushing 40, but Lucy Torres-Gomez still looks as radiant as the first time she graced our television screens in a shampoo commercial opposite her now husband, Richard Gomez. Lucy, who is, nowadays, wife, mother, TV host, and Congresswoman of her hometown Ormoc, Leyte, manages to stay energetic and youthful-looking as she attends to her responsibilities. She shares some of her life secrets to looking as beautiful as ever and living the good life.



Don’t fight the aging. “There are certain changes women my age can’t help dealing with. So although we already sweat the small stuff, we also become more mindful with the choices we make, especially when it comes to food and lifestyle. We may be past the insecurities of youth, but we also have to face the realities of aging.”

A good health supplement matters. “If you survived with little or no sleep in your teens or early 20s, lack of sleep at this age will immediately manifest its unflattering effects on your skin and energy level. I find the multivitamin supplement Immuvit, for example, helpful especially now that I have a busier schedule. It gives the maximum amount of health benefits women my age need.”

Make informed choices. “I stay out of the sun as much as I can and likewise use my eye cream religiously. Like with the vitamins and supplements I take, I am also mindful of what I put in my body. Like most women my age perhaps, I am forever reading labels and product briefs because I want to make informed choices.”

Eat healthy. “I have been eating brown rice for a few years now and have a better appreciation for fruits and vegetables. I like juice and I try to munch on healthy snacks like dried and fresh fruits and nuts.”

Control your binges. “I once read that our stomach is just about the size of a big fist and we are supposed to put just that much food into it at a time, too. I try to think of this when I am tempted to go on a binge. I also try to always eat fruits first, instead of last, as is the norm. I read that they have to be consumed first over fish or meat because they are easier to digest.”

Grab a quick nap. “If you have that sleep in the bag, then staying mentally alert is not a problem. I can say that I have also become an expert at taking naps whenever I can. Grabbing a quick doze really helps a lot when you have many responsibilities to attend to in a day.”

Find a happy space. “When I dance or do yoga, I feel totally carefree and energized. I feel like a child again. I feel so good about myself and my life and at that circumstance I actually feel I can take on anything. The natural high dancing gives me is the reason I keep going back to it. It makes for a happy space for me.”

Keep yourself grounded. “The world being so small and all, the very people you meet on your way up are also the ones you will meet on your way down. I also strongly believe that you will not go wrong when you are grounded on the right values.”

Home is where the heart is. “Family is important. I cannot say that often enough. The world can go all crazy, but as long as you have a family to go home to, a family to anchor you, you have a safe haven.”

Sexual Harassment: The Horror, the Horror

Sexual Harassment: The Horror, the Horror

By ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA

Published MOD October 2010 Halloween Issue

IT might happen in school, in the office, or even at your home.

“Sexual harassment is any behaviour or verbal expression that one find offensive,” according to Dr. Genuina Ranoy of St. Luke’s Medical Center. “It depends on the perception of the person. For some people, it is not sexual harassment because okay lang na ginagawa yun.”

A simple act of putting one’s arm over the shoulder when it is inappropriate and makes one of the parties involved uncomfortable can be an act of harassment.

MOD Collection

Check the Signs

Behavioural. There are times that it might seem obvious, like one’s stare might make you feel uncomfortable or has the interpretation of sexual advances. Or one creates a situation wherein you would be uncomfortable. Sometimes the victim cannot say anything because the harasser’s position is higher.

Verbal. “One example is being called in some terms of endearment, or maybe in a way that has a sexual connotation and inappropriate for you. It would only be sexual harassment if you do not like it,” says Dr. Ranoy.

Actions. “If a guy touches your private parts and he says it’s accidental but for you its not, that’s sexual harassment,” says Dr. Ranoy.

How To Cope with Harassment:

Say it. Dr. Ranoy says that you really have to say what you feel, like “’You’re going beyond boundaries,” so that the person would know. Tell him, because some people are not even aware that they are harassing other people. “

File a complaint. “Tell the authorities,” advises Dr. Ranoy. “That way, they would look into what you are saying and have the proper venues to discuss it.”

Don’t feel guilty. “People often say that it is the victim’s fault, especially if she dresses in a sexy way. ‘It is their fault as they are inviting,’ harassers would often say,” says Dr. Ranoy. “No, it’s not your fault. Don’t feel guilty about it. You did not like what was done to you.”

Check yourself. “Check the way you behave. Certain verbal expressions may be seducing. Maybe unconsciously you are being seductive,” says Dr. Ranoy. “Especially if there is a pattern that wherever you go you are being sexually harassed, ask yourself why. It is not necessarily the way you dress up, but the behaviour also. People might think that to you it is okay because you are inviting.”

Who's Afraid of Daiana Meneses?

Published MOD October 2010 Halloween Issue

By ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA

She may be your next-door television aswang. But no need to be afraid of Daiana Menezes.

She's juts here to do what she likes to do, to pursue her dreams even after several rejections.

“I got declined many times. I got told by several agencies I was not their type,” says Daiana Menezes, relating her start as a model in her home country Brazil. “People didn’t really accept me as a model because I was too short compared to the average model in Brazil. I am only 5’7 and most of the models are 5’10.” But rejection somehow opened windows of opportunities for the Brazilian beauty.

Daiana found another audience. “There was this other agency which does international work and they got me for Thailand,” she says. The agency said her features-- rosy, white skin, and sharp nose--fit well for the Asian market. Thus, she began working as a model in several countries—Hong Kong, China, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand. In 2006, she landed a shampoo commercial here in the Philippines.

“It was in 2007 that I decided I do not want to be modeling anymore. Adjust, get used to the place, and then leave--I got really tired of doing that. So when I got the chance to get a regular job here in the Philippines, I grabbed it. I love the country that’s why I decided to settle here. Eat Bulaga just came along,” she says, referring to the noon time show which made her popular.

She settled in Manila and had an easy time adjusting to the Philippine way of life. “Here in the Philippines, you have a mix of the Latin culture. You arealso kind of Americanized in a way, so it is easy for me to adjust here, ” says Daiana, adding that the Philippines is like Brazil in Asia. “I super feel at home. I could not even say na grabe ang traffic dito. Every country has its problems, ‘di ba?”

Apart from her hosting gig in Eat Bulaga, Daiana also plays as Vic Sotto’s leading lady in the TV5 sitcom Ang Darling Kong Aswang. She has nothing but praises for the comedian. “He is the most professional person I have ever worked with. He really knows when he has to joke, when he has to work,” she says. “Plus he doesn’t mix personal life with work. People don’t know that. People think that once you’re there, you’re going to get involved with him. No, it doesn’t work that way. He is such a professional guy on the set. Trabaho muna tayo.”

As for rumors that she’s the cause of a rift between lovebirds Vic and Pia Guanio, Daiana just look at them on a positive light. “I’m thankful about that issue because it will increase our ratings. Vic and I are just acting in the show but people think we are already having a relationship. So, wow, effective pala yung ginagawa namin sa show. I just take it as a compliment. Maybe people are thinking what we are doing is for real because we have good chemistry,” she says. “Plus, Pia is a good friend of mine. Pia was the one who recommended me to play the role of wife to Vic because she trusts me. We’re still friends.”

Daiana adds, “Vic teaches me a lot -- how to act, how to do the scene, position myself in front of the camera, every little detail -- which I think I wouldn’t learn if I was working with somebody else. He is a teacher.”

Even with all the intrigues, Daiana says that she doesn't miss anything back home, apart from her family.

“My dad, even if he was really well-off, he didn’t give me whatever I wanted. He made me work for it. That’s why when I first got here, I didn’t have a hard time working for what I wanted. Hindi naman mahirap. I’m used to taking a taxi for work. I make ipon. So I was able to buy two cars and my own place. In two and a half years, I have almost everything a 23-year-old person would want to achieve in life. So super blessed talaga ako,” she says.

Those agencies back home must be scratching their heads.

How to be a beautiful vamp

Do you work out?

I don’t go to the gym. I cannot afford to go to the gym because I have work and it wouldn’t be consistent and I’m tamad. I’m honestly really tamad to work out. But I control what I eat when I see that I’m gaining weight.

Beauty secrets?

The only thing I do is to remove my makeup before I sleep. Even if I get home really late and I’m so tired from work, I do that. And I really try to sleep, because if you get a good night’s sleep, you are going to look fresh the next day. But once you lose your sleep, you are going to lose years of your life.

Beauty regimen?

Water lang talaga. I remove my makeup with makeup remover. I use Dermaline soaps when I shower. I use their feminine wash. I’m Caucasian and our skin mature earlier than that of Asians. What I do is I go weekly to Dermaline and have my treatments there--facial masks and laser hair removal,

Beauty product you cannot live without?

I use Dermaline soaps a lot, like gluthathione soap. I would never leave home without mascara. Even if I don’t have any makeup on, you will always see my pilikmata--I make an effort to do so. I don’t even wear fake eyelashes. I really put on maraming mascara.

Who does your hair?

I’d rather do my hair than let a hairstylist do it because I know my hair better. Working as a model for five years has taught me how to fix my hair and do my makeup. I’m very particular with it, let me do it na lang. In Eat Bulaga, each of us do our own makeup. One time, when I was modeling for a fashion show, a hairstylist used an electric curler to curl my hair. But pinaso ako sa shoulders. I wanted to cry. So now, either I really know the hairstylist or I would just do my hairstyling.

Beauty Advice?

Don’t expose yourself to the sun without any sunblock, because you would get pimples, wrinkles, and freckles.

Derek Ramsay: Dodging Rumors

By ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA
MOD JULY 2010

A STAR’s popularity can be measured by the number of rumors floating around him. Derek Ramsay isn’t an exception, as he is hounded by rumors left and right.

“May issue na peke ang katawan ko, may issue din daw na may gay sex video ako,” says the Century endorser, used to all this brouhaha. “Wala akong tinatagong asawa sa ibang bansa, wala akong tinatagong anak that I know of, at wala din akong gay sex video.”

He adds, “’Yung pinaka-nakakatawa ay ‘yung peke daw yung katawan ko,” he says. Can’t blame him. After all, he worked out for his body? More than eating the right kind of food, he works on his physique through his passion for sports like ultimate Frisbee, and now mixed martial arts (MMA) in preparation for his role in the teleserye Magkaribal which started airing recently. "Nag-training kami sa URCC (Universal Reality Combat Championships). I had some good trainers sa Mojo Gym who helped me out. Parang crash course in MMA, which I really, really enjoyed. So when I get back from South Africa, I might step away from Frisbee for a while and strengthen my body through MMA. Parang wrestling, boxing, and ju-jitsu caught my interest," he says.

Derek’s calm approach to intrigues, however, stops once his family gets involved. And actress Angelica Panganiban, his longtime girlfriend, always seems to be dangled along, with some rumormongers insinuating she doesn’t get along with his family. According to Derek, not only him, but also his family, like the Rubi star.

“We’re not just partners, we’re also friends,” Derek says on what keeps his relationship with Angelica strong. “We help each other grow in our careers, given na ‘yun na you’re supposed to trust each other. Anyone can say that, but in our relationship, we let ourselves grow. I don’t set rules for Angel when she became my girlfriend, or when I became her boyfriend. I’m not going to set rules, if she wants to change for me, or if I want to change for her, we do that by ourselves. We don’t impose on each other. She’s growing as a person, as an actress. I’m growing as a person, I think. That’s the reason why happy ‘yung relationship namin.”

When Sex Hurts

When Sex Hurts

By ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA

Published MOD July 2010

SEX hurts. Many say it hurts the first time women do it. But then you’ve already done it several times, yet a feeling of discomfort and pain manages to outdo your sexual satisfaction.

This problem is called painful intercourse or dyspareunia. Dr. Judy Ann Uy-de Luna of the Obstetrics and Gynecology department of St. Luke's Medical Center, says, “Dyspareunia is a sexual dysfunction that frequently has an organic basis regardless if it’s your first time or not.”

Dyspareunia can be caused by many reasons. Says Dr. Uy-de Luna, “Factors such as poor lubrication results to vaginal dryness; vaginal infections; urethritis or inflammation of the urethra which is difficult urination; cystitis or inflammation of the urinary bladder; trigonitis, a condition of inflammation of the trigone region of the bladder; episiotomy or poorly healed vaginal lacerations; and diseases such as pelvic inflammatory disease and endometriosis can all be attributed to these organic causes.”

Lack of foreplay can also cause painful intercourse. “Sexual response problem or lack of arousal decreases the woman's ability to become sexually aroused and to become vaginally lubricated,” says Dr. Uy-de Luna. “It could also be secondary to Vaginismus or a condition that is secondary to involuntary spasm usually in the vaginal introital (or the opening of the vagina) and levator ani muscles resulting to painful or impossible penetration.”

Birth control pills not only affect ovulation as some side effects can cause certain mood swings. “Certain oral contraceptive pills can cause adverse mood changes such as depression, irritability, tension, and fatigue which affect a woman's sexual behavior,” Dr. Uy-de Luna warns.

One technique that Dr. Uy-de Luna recommends to lessen the pain is by experimenting with your sexual positions. “There are instances that dyspareunia can be relieved by changing coital position. Couples should be encouraged to experiment with female-dominant and side-by-side positions to see if the pain can be prevented,” she said.

If you experience pain during intercourse, it is wise to see your obstetrician immediately. Dr. Uy-de Luna also advises that the physician should obtain a careful history when the dyspareunia occurs, whether during insertion of the penis, at the mid-vagina during thrusting, or with deep penetration of the vault to pinpoint the organic cause and subsequently treat specific pathologic conditions.

Sarah Meier

Sarah Meier: ‘Modeling teaches valuable industry lessons’

BY ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA

MOD MAY 2010

MODELS who want to extend their careers beyond the runways, billboards, television commercials, and print ads should take their cue from Sarah Meier. Although she still books modeling stints, Sarah has proven that there’s more to her than her looks. Back when being a music channel video jock was the to-die-for job, Sarah was one of the most popular VJs. And then she got married, and had a kid.

“In those less hectic times, out of the public eye, I was visualizing, conceptualizing, and actualizing my next ten-year plan,” she says.

Now back in the spotlight, she hosts The Dollhouse, a daily morning show from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. on U92 FM with model Vicky Herrera. Although she’s proud of her work on radio, she is proudest when she’s being a wife and a mother. “Being a wife and mother are two of the most important, high-paying, rewarding, press-worthy job titles I will ever hold,” she says.

Radio Gaga. “People have been asking me why I decided to do radio after television, implying that it was some sort of a downgrade -- which makes me smile because shifting to radio was actually something I did to improve my hosting skills. As a VJ, you have distractions to help you get away with your job.You can smile, dress to impress, bounce around, and in the case of on-screen material, cut and ‘take two’ when you mess up o

r forget the information in your script. Radio is live. It's every day, and there’s always a responsibility to talk--in my case, for four hours--make sense, impart substance, and keep people entertained on a daily basis without sounding redundant or dated. I like to challenge. Radio deejay-ing is the boss of this next round that I'm going to enjoy conquering.”

Music’s on Her Radar. “As a daily morning rush hour show, The Dollhouse has a set list of songs that our programmer lines up for us. The order in which we play it on the show is up to us. Once in a while, we get away with highlighting some of our favorite tunes from past decades like on Throwback Thursdays, but generally we keep it current. We're such musically inclined jocks at U92 that you can tune in at any point and know that there is a real selector behind the booth and not just some robot.”

On-Air Mishaps. “Any given day, something can go wrong. I can forget to turn off somebody's microphone, or accidentally play a different song than I introduced. It's live, and that's the beauty of it. When I stop making mistakes, it means I'm ready to take on another challenge.”

Shifting Gears. “Shifting to the new studio and learning how to use the equipment came on the first day Vicky, my partner, and I moved to the morning shift, which means it was also the first time we had to wake up at 4 a.m. instead of come in for our 5 p.m. show, and the first time we had to be on air for four hours. Plus, we were the first two jocks on-air at the new station, so we felt like guinea pigs.”

Morning Person. “I think the thought of waking up at 4 a.m. was more daunting than actually doing it. I tried practising a week before, but we were still doing evening shift, and I just ended up exhausted. Now that I am a morning person, I feel like I maximize my day. I can be your alarm clock, instead of hitting the snooze button on mine.”

A Word on Modeling. “Modeling will teach you some of the most valuable lessons you may need to succeed in any industry--how to present yourself, the discipline of recognizing people's expectations and meeting them, being independent, personable, professional, flexible, and open minded provided you have your head screwed on straight. I've found that people who model for the wrong reasons like revenge, to prove something, or to nurse a self-esteem issue, end up with more problems than when they began. I think that's the long-term truth about modeling that nobody warns anybody about.”

The Only Job Title That Matters. “Being a wife and mother are two of the most important, high-paying, rewarding, press-worthy job titles I will ever hold, and investing quality time for family is essential in success, no matter what your job description is. But I am still both a businesswoman and a creative at heart, and so in those less hectic times, out of the public eye, I was visualizing, conceptualizing, and actualizing my next ten-year plan.”

A Healthy Daily Diet. “Eating is a soul-important quasi-luxury. The conversations and relationships formed over meals are wonderful; as is the love put into preparing them. As long as you have a healthy balance of proper eating and exercise, I've discovered that there is no more effective diet in the universe.”

The Vain Game When Your Man Is Prettier Than You

Love lowdown:

The Vain Game

When Your Man Is Prettier Than You

By ANA KRISTINE B. VALENZUELA

‘HOW do I look?’

Today, this seems to be a question uttered not only by women but even by men—men who are not necessarily gay, but are by all means straight.

Meet the metrosexuals-- men who pay more attention on their appearance. They are particular with their looks, be it the number of facial creams they use or the hair removal products that they have tried. Metrosexuals pamper themselves and shell out money, not only on cars and gadgets but also on their beauty products.

The thought of being with a man prettier than you may sound uncomfortable, but worry not. Here are the pros and cons of being with a metrosexual:

The downside: Metrosexuals are picky, even with little stuff such as their cologne and even—gasp—your lipstick color. Sometimes you find yourself trying to measure up to his appearance.

The upside: His being looks-conscious means he has a lot to offer, like being well-groomed and well-spoken. You can proudly show off your guy to either your friends or your ‘rents and not worry about what they would say about his appearance.

The downside: His prep time is longer than yours. You don’t know if it’s the number of hair products he uses or the number of times he changes clothes -- you still have to wait for him as you both get ready for the movies.

The upside: Salon bonding time. More men now prefer going to the salon rather than their trusty barber. Maybe it is because of services like hair spa, manicure, and foot spa, or maybe because they get to spend time with you.

The downside: Gay guys hit on him. Face it, not only is your guy good-looking, he also dresses well, attracting a lot of women and gays. Because of this you’ve already thrown more than dagger eyes to a lot of gay men for mistaking him to be a homo.

The upside: He is fashionably aware. This does not necessarily mean he knows the trends—if he does then he might just be with the gay guys flirting with him. Because of this, he can give you advice on what looks good on you!.

The Celebrity Metrosexuals

David Beckham

From changing hairstyles to shaved armpits, this soccer superstar is known as the ultimate metrosexual. He has redefined male style with his skin art and fashion sense, which complements his wife’s, Posh, just right.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers

This hunk known for playing King Henry VIII in the television film The Tudors, is also known for his love of beauty products, like Hugo Boss cologne, and high fashion, like Fendi. On-off again girlfriend Reena Hammer, heiress to a cosmetic line, must have an influence on him.

Zac Efron

The 17 Again star is said to be obsessed, not only with his longtime girlfriend Vanessa Hudgens, but also on foundation and eyeliner. His being well-groomed sometimes freaks out girlfriend Vanessa as he gets a little too fussy over a tiny hint of blemish.

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