Posts Tagged ‘judge’

Project Runway Philippines Season 2!

Monday, August 10th, 2009

The long wait is almost over! On August 12, the first episode of Project Runway Philippines (PRP) Season 2 will be shown on ETC at 10pm. I am super excited for this season as the productions values were amplified a couple of levels higher. The lighting alone made everyone look 10 years younger!  LOL!

Solar TV (the company  responsible for bringing PRP to our islands) recently hosted major launch party at the Embassy club.  Guests were treated to a sneak peak at episode one and let me tell you, it’s going to be a PHENOMENAL season! This year’s batch of designers are so diverse, they come from so many backgrounds. We have dance instructors, graphic designers, interior designers, theater actors, dancers, and even an accountant – all hungry to be the next Philippine design sensation! I promise you that it will be a really fabulous show! Please write it down on all your calendars to watch the show!

 These are the super talented batch of designers of Project Runway Philippines Season 2!

These are the super talented designers for Project Runway Philippines Season 2!

 I was asked to come to the party at exactly 7pm!  I thing I was really early as I have never ever seen the Embassy this bare!  LOL!  It was all good though as I got to see the Interior details of the club up close.  I never noticed how nice the wood carved details on the walls were.

I was asked to come to the party at exactly 7pm! I think I was really early, as I have never ever seen the Embassy this bare! LOL! It was all good though, as I got to see the interior details of the club up close. I never noticed how nice the wood carved details on the walls were.

 My Co-Judge Apples Aberin looking so fresh and young!  Flew in from China just to be at the party!  She is now head of Global PR for Ponds!  My GOD!  I am now going to buy a box of ponds and sleep in it , if it will make me  look this amazing!  (FYI Apples is 41! )

My co-judge Apples Aberin looking so fresh and young! Flew in from China just to be at the party! She is now head of Global PR for Ponds! My GOD! I am now going to buy a box of Ponds and sleep in it , if it will make me look this amazing! (FYI: Apples is 41! )

 Amina Aranaz-Alunan whose fashion school SOFA sponsors the show.  ( The designers do all their work at the school) was there with my dear friend Jojie Lloren.  Jojie is the fashion mentor/guru in the show!

Amina Aranaz-Alunan, whose fashion school SOFA sponsors the show (The designers do all their work at the school), was there with my dear friend Jojie Lloren. Jojie is the fashion mentor/guru in the show!

 PREVIEW's Style mavens were there in full force!  Editor in chief Pauline Suaco-Juan who was in a YSL mood was there with the sultry Liz Uy who I swear to all of you is so GORGEOUS!  OMG!  She  could make me straight!  LOL!

PREVIEW's style mavens were there in full force! Editor in chief Pauline Suaco-Juan who was in a YSL mood was there with the sultry Liz Uy, who I swear to all of you is so GORGEOUS! OMG! She could make me straight! LOL!

The beautiful Herrera girls were there in full force!  Teresa, Tina and Rosario!

The beautiful Herrera girls were there in full force! Teresa, Tina and Rosario!

The Star of Philippine Project Runway Philippines!  My beautiful friend Teresa Herrera!  She flew in from New York the night before just to attend the party!  She flies out again in 5 days for work!  Thats the life of a super fabulous JET-SET gal!  I adore her!

The Star of Project Runway Philippines! My beautiful friend Teresa Herrera! She flew in from New York the night before just to attend the party! She flies out again in 5 days for work! That's the life of a super fabulous JET-SET gal! I adore her!

HUGS!
RAJO!

My Life as a Judge

Monday, June 22nd, 2009

Many thanks to my friend Liza Ilarde of The Fashpack for texting me about the article that I wrote for the Sunday Inquirer Magazine last Sunday June 21.  If not for her, I would not have been able to know that my article came out.  If feels like I wrote it so long ago.  I just want to share with all of you my experience and my thoughts on being a judge on Project Runway Philippines in my article entitled “My Life as a Judge.” (Click the link to see it.)

Excerpt from article: "Just how do I judge beauty contests, people ask. By gut instincts depending on what makes me respond positively, I tell them. I also judge from the given brief, from the rationale behind each competition. If it’s a beauty contest, I look for what appeals to me. I look for balance in body proportion and features that make me sit up and take notice. For the most part I look for personality. Looks can only get you so far, but a fantastic personality and a great attitude can really take you places."

BIG HUGS!
RAJO!

Alluring Iloilo!

Saturday, June 20th, 2009

I have a soft place in my heart for Iloilo.  I have many wonderful friends from there and I always feel at home each time I visit.  The Ilonggo’s hospitality is probably the warmest I have felt in the country.  I was invited by Robinson’s mall for their Design Lab series.  It’s a local fashion design competition that helps promote the local weaves of the province, as well as expose the talents of their young designers.  The contest is already on its third year and it seems to get better and better each year.

Iloilo is home to many of our talented young designers, like Eric de Los Santos who is making waves in Manila.  In fact, his dress is on the June 2009 cover of Preview.  It is also the home base of the Louis Claparols, another very talented fashion designer.  I flew in on a really beautiful day and totally enjoyed myself.  Here is a pictionary of my day in Iloilo.

The rain suddenly stopped when we landed in the brand new airport of Iloilo!  I was so impressed with their airport its like a mini version of Manila!  Sigh...I wish the rest of the provinces would improve their local airports.
The rain suddenly stopped when we landed at the brand new airport of Iloilo! I was so impressed with their airport; it’s like a mini-version of Manila! Sigh…I wish the rest of the provinces would improve their local airports.

Inside the terminal!
Inside the terminal!

We then headed of to have an early lunch at Breakthrough.  It is the best sea food restaurant in the province!
We then headed of to have an early lunch at Breakthrough. It is the best seafood restaurant in the province!
Some art-chorva shots. LOL!

Some art-chorva shots. LOL!

 Bumped into some fine super fashion ladies in the airport who were also judging the design contest.  Artist and fashion designer Patty Eustaquio and Super Stylish-FIERCE to the nth degree Daryl Chang.  FYI.. They were suppose to fly home that night but I convinced them to stay the whole day.  We had such a fantastic time.

Bumped into some fine super fashion ladies in the airport who were also judging the design contest. Artist and fashion designer Patty Eustaquio and Super Stylish-FIERCE to the nth degree Daryl Chang. FYI: They were supposed to fly home that night, but I convinced them to stay the whole day. We had such a fantastic time.

 Patty shows me her Cannon G10!  We both love this Camera!

Patty shows me her Cannon G10! We both love this camera!

 The spread at Breakthrough was mouth watering.  This is grilled hito or catfish.

The spread at Breakthrough was mouthwatering. This is grilled hito or catfish.

Steamed giant prawns anyone?

Steamed giant prawns anyone?

When you eating sea food you have to have SINAMAK.  A local vinegar with chilies and spices.  It provides the much needed kick!

When you're eating seafood, you have to have SINAMAK, which is local vinegar with chilies and spices. It provides the much needed kick!

Some artful vegetables.

Some artful vegetables.

Lobster was available too.

Lobster was available too.

 J-adore the patterns.. .  HMMMM.....this could be the start of summer 2010.

J'adore the patterns.. . HMMMM.....this could be the start of summer 2010.

 Daryl Chang and my Palangga Eric de Los Santos.  He always gives us the best hospitality when we are there.

Daryl Chang and my palangga Eric de Los Santos. He always gives us the best hospitality when we are there.

 this was so yummy!  But I forgot what kind of fish it was?  Can anyone tell me?

This was so yummy! But I forgot what kind of fish it was! Can anyone tell me?

Baked scallops with garlic.

Baked scallops with garlic.

 After lunch I saw this man carrying selling some native sweets on his back.  I had to take a photo of him and his wares.  Its so super cool!

After lunch I saw this man carrying selling some native sweets on his back. I had to take a photo of him and his wares. It's so super cool!

Loved his packaging!

Loved his packaging!

 They are small bamboo cups with banana covering.

They are small bamboo cups with banana covering.

 inside it was a thick coconut and sugar mixture that was just the perfect size.  It was the best way to end a really beautiful meal.

Inside it was a thick coconut and sugar mixture that was just the perfect size. It was the best way to end a really beautiful meal.

HUGS!
RAJO!

Superbods Finals!

Tuesday, May 5th, 2009

This is the last installment of my Century Superbods weekend.  The final event was held at the Pearl of the Pacific.  Robby Carmona and his team at SAGA did a phenomenal job!  Despite the tremendous amount of rain that showered that evening, the entire production went on with out a single hiccup!  The show was fantastic!  A lot of people can learn a thing or two from watching that show -  it was tight and swift without a dull moment.  I had a a great time judging the contest.  I am certain that everyone had a fabulous time!

 The SUPER FIERCE...Joey Mead hosted the evening!  I just adore this woman!  I have known her for more that 10 years and she just gets more beautiful with each passing year.

The SUPER FIERCE...Joey Mead hosted the evening! I just adore this woman! I have known her for more that 10 years and she just gets more beautiful with each passing year.

 Here we are being briefed before the start of the competition.

Here we are being briefed before the start of the competition.

 I passed the backstage before the show and took a shot at the boys before the did their opening number!  Good luck sailors!  LOL!

I passed backstage before the show and took a shot of the boys before they did their opening number! Good luck sailors! LOL!

 Each winner would be getting 500,000 bones!  And a bevy of other prizes.. not sure what the rest of the prizes were....perhaps a lifetime supply yummy tuna?

Each winner would be getting 500,000 bones! And a bevy of other prizes.. not sure what the rest of the prizes were....perhaps a lifetime supply of yummy tuna?

 It was raining like cats and dogs during the contest!  The opening number had a nautical flavor.

It was raining like cats and dogs during the contest! The opening number had a nautical flavor.

You had to give it to the contestants because its not easy to project on a wet stage.  Here is Halley who was one of the models in project runway with the super cute Terrence Lloyd.

You had to give it to the contestants because it's not easy to project on a wet stage. Here is Halley, who was one of the models in Project Runway, with the super cute Terrence Lloyd.

 this is Rey Talosig.  I hear that apart from being hot he is also super smart.  I was told that he play a mean classical guitar.

This is Rey Talosig. I hear that apart from being hot, he is also super smart. I was told that he plays a mean classical guitar.

 Terrence Lloyd was a crowd favorite as their would be shrieks of delight when he would come forward.

Terrence Lloyd was a crowd favorite, as there would be shrieks of delight when he would come forward.

 The cool opening number!  I loved the staging!  Those LED screens are fantastic, I wonder if that would work in a living room? LOL!

The cool opening number! I loved the staging! Those LED screens are fantastic. I wonder if that would work in a living room? LOL!

 This guy is Laxie Villar, he nice  had Filipino features.

This guy is Laxie Villar. He nice had Filipino features.

Terrence Loyd is only 19 years old and his body type is actually the trend now with male models.  Its this lean look that everyone is looking for.

Terrence Loyd is only 19 years old and his body type is actually the trend now with male models. It's this lean look that everyone is looking for.

 Van Victor Leano was already my favorite from the start.  I like his proportion and personality.  I actually went to the century superbods web site to check him out.  Happy to find out that he is from La Salle.  My alma matter!

Van Victor Leano was already my favorite from the start. I like his proportion and personality. I actually went to the Century Superbods web site to check him out. Happy to find out that he is from La Salle. My alma matter!

 David Nagtalon also was also a crowd favorite!  He had the loudest applause from the audience.

David Nagtalon also was also a crowd favorite! He had the loudest applause from the audience.

 Ervic Vijandre is a basketball player. I hear that his ex girlfriend is the BEEYOOTIFUL.. Marian Rivera.

Ervic Vijandre is a basketball player. I hear that his ex-girlfriend is the BEEYOOTIFUL.. Marian Rivera.

 Martin Richard is HOT!  period.

Martin Richard is HOT! period.

This is Theresa Fenger. I thought that she was really pretty.  They created pairs of contestants so that they came out at a faster pace.

This is Theresa Fenger. I thought that she was really pretty. They created pairs of contestants so that they came out at a faster pace.

 The required question and answer portion.  This normally would make me cringe inside but I was really impressed with most of the contestants as they were smart, witty and really charming. ( Rey Talosig bagged the 2nd runner up prize)

The required question and answer portion. This normally would make me cringe inside, but I was really impressed with most of the contestants as they were smart, witty and really charming. (Rey Talosig bagged the 2nd runner up prize.)

Van Victor sailed through his question with ease.

Van Victor sailed through his question with ease.

David was very naughty and witty!

David was very naughty and witty!

 Ervic actually impressed me too.  I hope that hey put the show out on TV as it was a really good show.

Ervic actually impressed me too. I hope that they put the show out on TV, as it was a really good show.

 Martin also did well.  Funny how I don't have any of the female contestants pictures  in my camera!  LOL!  ( Martin Richard won 1st runner up)

Martin also did well. Funny how I don't have any of the female contestants pictures in my camera! LOL! ( Martin Richard won 1st runner up.)

They had the best dancers for the intermission.  I loved the energy.  I think they are called the pinoy all stars?

They had the best dancers for the intermission. I loved the energy. I think they are called the Pinoy All-Stars?

 Van Victor Leano won the contest!  He was my choice!  LOL!

Van Victor Leano won the contest! He was my choice! LOL!

 This is your 2009 SUPERBODS winners...Theresa Fenger and Van Victor Leano!  Congratulations!!! Well done!!!

This is your 2009 SUPERBODS winners...Theresa Fenger and Van Victor Leano! Congratulations!!! Well done!!!

I just wanted to share with you Joem Bascom!  I hung out with him at the after party and I am convinced that he is going to be the next big thing in SHOWBIZ!   He was totally nice and just an all around fantastic person!

I just wanted to share with you Joem Bascom! I hung out with him at the afterparty and I am convinced that he is going to be the next big thing in SHOWBIZ! He was totally nice and just an all-around fantastic person!

HUGS!
RAJO!

Century Superbods!

Monday, May 4th, 2009

I just came back from Boracay for the Century Tuna Superbods competition. They asked me to be a judge this year and I could not say no! LOL! They had all the components of a fantastic weekend: the beach, the sun and 20 of the most beautiful human beings for me to peruse?! This was something that I was really looking forward to.

I will be posting 2 more entries on the events, as my photos are super exciting! Think eye candy for the soul! They had a really good batch of contestants this year. I heard they really combed through more than our 7,000 islands to come up with the finalists. In the meantime, this is how our day one turned out! Enjoy!

 I got a call from Nix that I better come early to the airport as Terminal 3 was CRAZY!  That being the labor day weekend and all that, everyone wanted to get out of town. In fact Nix missed his flight even if he was more than an hour and a half early in the airport!  It was really frustrating but make this a lesson for everyone if its one of these long holiday weekend get away come to the airport earlier!  Anyway...when I got there things got better as John (Mulaly) Avila  was in line with me and this made me smile!  LOL!  On a side note John was the very first winner of the Centruy super body contest in 2006!

I got a call from Nix that I better come early to the airport as Terminal 3 was CRAZY! That being the Labor Day weekend and all that, everyone wanted to get out of town. In fact, Nix missed his flight even if he was more than an hour and a half early in the airport! It was really frustrating, but make this a lesson for everyone: if it's one of these long holiday weekend getaways, come to the airport earlier! Anyway...when I got there, things got better as Jon (Mullaly) Avila was in line with me, and this made me smile! LOL! On a side note, Jon was the very first winner of the Centruy Superbods contest in 2006!

 Victor Magsaysay was also in the same flight with me.  We even sat together.  He is really nice and smart.  We talked about how he was ordained as a priest on TV and how this special that experience was.

Victor Basa was also in the same flight with me. We even sat together. He is really nice and smart. We talked about how he was ordained as a priest on TV and how this special that experience was.

 I spotted our Miss Universe Gloria Diaz who is also judging the contest with her nephew and her equally gorgeous daughter Isabel!

I spotted our Miss Universe Gloria Diaz, who is also judging the contest, with her nephew and her equally gorgeous daughter Isabel!

 Style Samurai spotting!  Daryl Chang!  Love this girls style!

Style Samurai spotting! Daryl Chang! Love this girl's style!

We stayed at the Pearl of the pacific!  We took the most scary elevator up to my super far room!  This elevator was almost like a fear factor challenge as it felt so unstable that my mind would like thing that any minute now the whole thing would collapse!

We stayed at the Pearl of the Pacific! We took the most scary elevator up to my super far room! This elevator was almost like a Fear Factor challenge, as it felt so unstable that my mind would, like, think that any minute now, the whole thing would collapse!

 This was my room!  It was nothing great but as least the aircon was cold and they had hot water!  I just wish that the management of this hotel would like take care of the facilities more.  It was my first time to stay at the Pearl of the pacific and I am afraid that it might be my last. I really try to find the positive in everything but this hotel was really a challenge.  I just want to say that Pearl of the pacific  overall NEEDS IMPROVEMENT!

This was my room! It was nothing great, but as least the aircon was cold and they had hot water! I just wish that the management of this hotel would, like, take care of the facilities more. It was my first time to stay at the Pearl of the Pacific and I am afraid that it might be my last. I really try to find the positive in everything, but this hotel was really a challenge. I just want to say that Pearl of the Pacific, overall, NEEDS IMPROVEMENT!

 If I did not want to take the scary elevator up to my room( which I would have to wait for like 10 minutes to take as we had to look for "ONE" elevator operator man to bring us up or down) I would have to walk  half a mountain.  Although I really did not mind this so much as the walk was good for me and the path was pretty.

If I did not want to take the scary elevator up to my room (which I would have to wait for like 10 minutes to take, as we had to look for "ONE" elevator operator man to bring us up or down), I would have to walk half a mountain. Although I really did not mind this so much, as the walk was good for me and the path was pretty.

 The path was lined with beautiful plants and the morning mist created this lovely image.

The path was lined with beautiful plants and the morning mist created this lovely image.

I adore Miss Gloria Diaz!  I bump into her every now and then and she just has the most magical personality!  Attention ladies and gents this is how we all must age!  With the utmost grace!  She is GORGEOUS!!!!

I adore Miss Gloria Diaz! I bump into her every now and then, and she just has the most magical personality! Attention, ladies and gents, this is how we all must age! With the utmost grace! She is GORGEOUS!!!!

 The weather unfortunately was quite dreary and the sun came out only once.  The grey skies thought could not dampen the joy of being in Paradise.

The weather, unfortunately, was quite dreary and the sun came out only once, but the gray skies could not dampen the joy of being in Paradise.

Isabel Daza was sand surfing that day and she obliged me with a photo!  Thanks sweets! FYI...She is now the image model of Century tuna.   PERFECT CHOICE!

Isabel Daza was sand surfing that day and she obliged me with a photo! Thanks sweets! FYI...She is now the image model of Century Tuna. PERFECT CHOICE!

 The shoreline of Boracay has now been tuned into a virtual bill board of boats.  What is your take on this?

The shoreline of Boracay has now been tuned into a virtual billboard of boats. What is your take on this?

 The director of the event!  My friend Robby Carmona!

The director of the event: my friend Robby Carmona!

 Bride and groom to be Ian King and Joey Mead!

Bride and groom to be Ian King and Joey Mead!

 One of the best photographers in the country!  Jun De Leon with his son Ija.  Jun was also a judge for the competition.

One of the best photographers in the country! Jun De Leon with his son Ija. Jun was also a judge for the competition.

I love the colors of summer. NIx with the ladies!  Joey and Phoemela!

I love the colors of summer. Nix with the ladies! Joey and Phoemela!

HUGS!

RAJO!

Miss Teen Beauty Pageant!

Tuesday, April 28th, 2009

While I was in Dumaguete recently, I was asked to judge the Negros Oriental Miss Teen Philippines 2009 beauty pageant.  I did not hesitate, as I was already there and I thought that it would be fun.  I have been watching these things since I was like a child, so it seems almost integral to our culture.

I had a great time and I was really impressed by the organizers, as they were really polished and professional.  My only beef would be that the girls were acting too rigid and stiff – it was as if they were not teenagers anymore.  They all had this “trained” quality about them that they ended up like beautiful robotic androids.  However, I was really stunned by the beautiful young ladies of my mother’s hometown!  Congratulations to the winners and I know that you will do very well in the finals!

 The opening number!  The girls represent the various provinces in Negros Oriental. Like Tanjay, Bais, Guihulngan  and many more.  They actually held local pageants then sent them to Dumaguete for the regionals. Its quite a professional event. When the organizers were explaining it to me it sounded like an olympic sport! LOL!

The opening number! The girls represent the various provinces in Negros Oriental. Like Tanjay, Bais, Guihulngan and many more. They actually held local pageants then sent them to Dumaguete for the regionals. It's quite a professional event. When the organizers were explaining it to me, it sounded like an Olympic sport! LOL!

 This is my friend Angelo Villanueva!  Here he is wearing the shades I got for him in the UKAY-UKAY!  I knew that it would fit him perfectly!  He is a fashion stylist and a fantastic DJ.  His DJ name is SUPERMODEL DIVA!

This is my friend Angelo Villanueva! Here he is, wearing the shades I got for him in the UKAY-UKAY! I knew that it would fit him perfectly! He is a fashion stylist and a fantastic DJ. His DJ name is SUPERMODEL DIVA!

 These girls stood out in the start of the contes.

These girls stood out in the start of the contest.

 I found this girl really pretty!  She is what you call a classic mestiza.

I found this girl really pretty! She is what you call a classic mestiza.

  This girl is Kaye, she was quite tall almost 5 foot 8' !  This made me notice her immediately.

This girl is Kaye, she was quite tall almost 5 foot 8! This made me notice her immediately.

 I was super impressed by the computer set up, making the tabulation more efficient.

I was super impressed by the computer setup, making the tabulation more efficient.

The cup-cake inspired gowns.  I was like telling myself.....RAJO.....BE NICE!

The cupcake-inspired gowns. I was like telling myself.....RAJO.....BE NICE!

This is Kaye she eventually  won the top prize!  She is really smart and spoke extremely well!

This is Kaye, who eventually won the top prize! She is really smart and spoke extremely well!

 I  found this young lady NICY from Bais  really refreshing, she was the only one that really made me think that she was 16!  She reminded me of Judy Ann Santos!  She won 1st Runner up!  She will also be going to the nationals.

I found this young lady NICY from Bais really refreshing. She was the only one that really made me think that she was 16! She reminded me of Judy Ann Santos! She won 1st Runner up! She will also be going to the nationals.

 This was last years winner!  OH.....She is also the daughter of my first cousin!  LOL!

This was last year's winner! OH.....She is also the daughter of my first cousin! LOL!

HUGS!
RAJO!

FAME: Part 3!

Tuesday, April 21st, 2009

The most exciting thing for me about FAME is the Home Furnishing section!  In my humble opinion, we are one of the best home furnishing designers in the world!  I really get so inspired when I am able to walk around FAME and just soak all the beautiful designs around me.  I am the type of judge  that would rather give everyone an award! LOL!  I took a gazillion photos but I really think that all of these images will inspire you and make you swell with pride inside!

This lamp is from EVOLVE designs.  I was really digging their recycled theme and I really think that evolves designer is really a genius!

This lamp is from EVOLVE designs. I was really digging their recycled theme and I really think that Evolve's designer is really a genius!

 I love this chair!  It is made form layers of cheese cloth!  I sat on this chair and it was so comfortable, this is also from evolve designs and their designer Is MILO NAVA!  I think he is truly brilliant!  If you want this chair shoot an email to evolvephilippines@gmail.com

I love this chair! It is made from layers of cheese cloth! I sat on this chair and it was so comfortable. It's also from Evolve Designs by MILO NAVA! I think he is truly brilliant! If you want this chair, shoot an email to evolvephilippines@gmail.com

Evolve also did this bottle cap lamp base!  I LOVE IT!  It could be a do it yourself product.  Now if only I can find the time to do crafty things like this.

Evolve also did this bottle cap lamp base! I LOVE IT! It could be a do-it-yourself product. Now if only I can find the time to do crafty things like this.

 These pillows were designed by Maricris Brias!  She is  TADECO!  I love the pattern and the texture of these pillows!

These pillows were designed by Maricris Brias! She is TADECO! I love the pattern and the texture of these pillows!

Tadeco also translated the pillows into area carpets.  I imagine this as a really cool print for fabric.  Ideas....ideas!  You can see more of Maricris's work at www.tadeco-homedecor.com

Tadeco also translated the pillows into area carpets. I imagine this as a really cool print for fabric. Ideas....ideas! You can see more of Maricris's work at www.tadeco-homedecor.com

These fabulous sculptures/outdoor furniture is from the very talented Ann Pamintuan!  I love her stuff!  These are from her lotus series and I promise myself that if and when I have my own garden I will definitely have an Ann Pamintuan in it! PROMISE!

These fabulous sculptures/outdoor furniture pieces are from the very talented Ann Pamintuan! I love her stuff! These are from her Lotus series and I promise myself that if and when I have my own garden, I will definitely have an Ann Pamintuan in it! PROMISE!

 Ann Pamintuan also showed some modern verve by using some plastic tubing for some of her pieces!  I loved how this where like space creatures!  LOL!

Ann Pamintuan also showed some modern verve by using some plastic tubing for some of her pieces! I loved how these pieces were like space creatures! LOL!

 I loved this booth!  They create products made  from fine bone china!  The company is called CSM international!  I really found their items so delicate and romantic.  If you like to see more of them you can email them at csmicorp@smartbro.net

I loved this booth! They create products made from fine bone china! The company is called CSM International! I really found their items so delicate and romantic. If you'd like to see more of them, you can email them at csmicorp@smartbro.net

 The lady on the left is Tess Pasola!  I call her the PAPER PRINCESS!  She does the most amazing things with paper!  I mean can you imagine that all of those tables, vases, vessels and what not are all made from paper?  Well...They are!  She has won several design awards internationally for her amazing designs!  I AM A FAN!

The lady on the left is Tess Pasola. I call her the PAPER PRINCESS! She does the most amazing things with paper! I mean, can you imagine that all of those tables, vases, vessels and what not are all made from paper? Well...they are! She has won several design awards internationally for her amazing designs! I AM A FAN!

 In the center of home decor fair, Eric Paras created these amazing tableaus that showcased several products.  I love the how it was like a symphony of shapes and textures all so very pleasing to the eye and to the touch!  One word STUNNING!

In the center of home decor fair, Eric Paras created these amazing tableaus that showcased several products. I love how it was like a symphony of shapes and textures - all so very pleasing to the eye and to the touch! One word: STUNNING!

 Another Eric Paras tableau!  I want that lamp on the extreme right hand of the photo!  WAIT!  I want everything in this photo!  WAAAH!

Another Eric Paras tableau! I want that lamp on the extreme right hand of the photo! WAIT! I want everything in this photo! WAAAH!

 I was so scared to sit on this chair but I was assured by the designer that it was really safe!  It was beautiful.  I thought that it reminded me of a game I used to play as a child. The wood peg game called JANGO?

I was so scared to sit on this chair, but I was assured by the designer that it was really safe! It was beautiful. I thought that it reminded me of a game I used to play as a child: the wood peg game called JENGA?

 They had several artists creating murals in the fair as I was walking around. I was not sure where they would go but I love street art and I find watching artists paint mesmerizing.

They had several artists creating murals in the fair as I was walking around. I was not sure where they would go, but I love street art and I find watching artists paint mesmerizing.

 This was the Kalikasan Crafts booth!  I found there work so seamless!  I mean I know that they were made from Iron and all that but I could not figure out how they were attached together as the joints were so clean!  This made their products so outstanding!

This was the Kalikasan Crafts booth! I found their work so seamless! I mean, I know that they were made from iron and all, that but I could not figure out how they were attached together, as the joints were so clean! This made their products so outstanding!

 Love this lamp!  One of the judges asked how the pieces of metal were attached and they said it was top secret!  I would keep it a secret too because these items were fantastic!

Love this lamp! One of the judges asked how the pieces of metal were attached, and they said it was top secret! I would keep it a secret too because these items were fantastic!

 These lamps were also so beautiful.  They were also created by Kalikasan crafts you can see more of their work at www.kalikasancrafts.com

These lamps were also so beautiful. They were also created by Kalikasan Crafts. You can see more of their work at www.kalikasancrafts.com

 This amazing set of lamps won the KATHA awards last year!  They were designed and created by BON ACE!

This amazing set of lamps won the KATHA awards last year! They were designed and created by BON ACE!

These are also bon ace's products!  I loved their booth as they had a fringed veil around the booth that gave a sense of mystery and transparency to the whole area.

These are also Bon Ace's products! I loved their booth as they had a fringed veil around it that gave a sense of mystery and transparency to the whole area.

 These mirrors/wall sculptures are from MCCA industrial corporation.  I love how it was arranged, I also admire the delicate workmanship.

These mirrors/wall sculptures are from MCCA Industrial Corporation. I love how it was arranged, and I also admire the delicate workmanship.

 This KATHA 2009 award for best boot goes to MCCA!  I though it was really an intelligent use of space and it really highlighted the products.

This KATHA 2009 Award for Best Boot goes to MCCA! I though it was really an intelligent use of space and it really highlighted the products.

 Another view of the winning booth, it was so logical and so easy to appreciate their products.  You can get in touch with MCCA through mcca@comclark.com

Another view of the winning booth. It was so logical and so easy to appreciate their products. You can get in touch with MCCA through mcca@comclark.com

 A close up of the lamp I want!  Its so nice!

A close up of the lamp I want! It's so nice!

Another beautiful tableau by Eric Paras.

Another beautiful tableau by Eric Paras.

This is the booth of evolve!  I love the serenity of the place!  I can live in that booth!  LOL!

This is the booth of Evolve! I love the serenity of the place! I can live in that booth! LOL!

 This is made from paper! I found the texture so interesting.  I wonder if it will translate into fabric?  HMMM?

This is made from paper! I found the texture so interesting. I wonder if it will translate into fabric? HMMM?

 masaeco is the company that does this amazing things with paper.

Masaeco is the company that does these amazing things with paper.

 more of the products of Masaeco.

More of the products of Masaeco.

 This was the booth of the Locsin group.  They always show strong pieces and this year was no exception.

This was the booth of the Locsin group. They always show strong pieces and this year was no exception.

 This picture frame/chair is the winner for the 2009 KATHA award for best product design for best home decor.  We had a tough time choosing a winner with all of the judges having their own personal favorites. Although we all decided to give it to this piece because it was really whimsical and original.  I tried sitting on the chair and it was cozy!  Congratulations to MAZE!

This picture frame/chair is the winner for the 2009 KATHA Award for Best Product Design for Best Home Decor. We had a tough time choosing a winner with all of the judges having their own personal favorites. Although we all decided to give it to this piece because it was really whimsical and original. I tried sitting on the chair and it was cozy! Congratulations to MAZE!

 I personally loved this piece.  It is made from BULALO bones!  Bulalo is the shank of the cow!  Apparently the company that designed this would collect the bones from waiters of various restaurants around the metropolis then they would clean them up, treat them and then create outstanding products such as this!  This design really moved me as it inspired me somehow. I know that it was really difficult to do and its quite expensive.  I am making a mental note to buy this for my new house!  In the mean time save muna ako!

I personally loved this piece. It is made from BULALO bones! Bulalo is the shank of the cow! Apparently the company that designed this would collect the bones from waiters of various restaurants around the metropolis then they would clean them up, treat them and then create outstanding products such as this! This design really moved me as it inspired me somehow. I know that it was really difficult to do and it's quite expensive. I am making a mental note to buy this for my new house! In the meantime, save muna ako!

ENJOY!
RAJO!

The Young Entrepreneur Awards!

Monday, March 16th, 2009

Last week, I had the privilege to be a judge and the keynote speaker (NAKS!) at the HSBC Young Entrepreneur Awards!  This was such a special project for me, as I think of myself as half a businessman and half a designer. It is so important for me to make young people realize the value of business and that it’s not all pomp and pageantry.  I was asked by HSBC to judge the contest late last year, and it was a great experience.  There were almost a hundred applicants form various schools and universities in the Philippines and it was narrowed down to five for the grand finals!

The board of Judges were so impressive that I found myself  a bit insecure being part of the panel.  They were all pillars of the business industry, like Jaime Zobel, Lance Gokongwei, Alfred Xerez-Burgos and the like. (Proudly, I held my own, though. LOL! )

 The board of judges was stellar!  I mean 10 major individuals in the business industry!  HANEP talaga!

The board of judges was stellar! I mean, 10 major individuals in the business industry! HANEP talaga!

 I was so nervous when they asked me to be the key note speaker, all I could think of was....I am not worthy!  LOL!

I was so nervous when they asked me to be the keynote speaker. All I could think of was....I am not worthy! LOL!

The prizes were staggering!  That alone should inspire many others to join next year. A bit of trivia for you: 4 of the 5 finalists were from the Ateneo and the other one was from La Salle. However, most of the judges came from La Salle!  LOL!

Check out the prizes! I mean, that's a whole lot of money!

It was really a fantastic experience for me, as I was really nervous giving my speech. But I guess I did well, as they gave me a standing ovation after, and all the judges stood up, patted me on the back, and shook my hand. A proud moment in my life!

Here are some images and photos from the competition.  For all you students reading this, I suggest  you all join next year because it’s really a major opportunity!

This group was called the Atlantis group, they won 3rd place!  The business that they propose was using the janitor (pest) fish and changing this to fish meal to use a feed for hogs.(  they won 125,000.00 pesos and a study trip to Hong Kong!)

This group was called the Atlantis group. They won 3rd place! The business that they proposed was using the janitor (pest) fish and changing this to fish meal to use a feed for hogs. (They won 125,000.00 Pesos and a study trip to Hong Kong!)

 The panel of judges! To my left was Anton Huang (Vice President of Rustans and SSI he is the man who is giving us most of our fashion highlights like PRADA, GUCCI MARC JACOBS, ZARA and soon HERMES!!!  A big hug to you Anton) right next to him is Lance Gokongwei, the man is like a GENIUS!  He is the president of so many companies its a wonder how he can fit all of those in the day!

The panel of judges! To my left was Anton Huang (Vice President of Rustan's and SSI - he is the man who is giving us most of our fashion highlights like PRADA, GUCCI, MARC JACOBS, ZARA and soon, HERMES!!! A big hug to you, Anton!) Right next to him is Lance Gokongwei. The man is like a GENIUS! He is the president of so many companies - it's a wonder how he can fit all of those in the day!

 These kids wond the Eco-Business award!  They propose to turn coconut leaves into plates.

These kids won the Eco-Business award! They proposed to turn coconut leaves into plates.

 I liked this group a lot!  They are the Chains for change group, the business idea is to transform old clothes into fashionable hand bags!  I love how my advocacy RAGS TO RICHES inspired them!  They won the 2nd prize!!! ( 200,000.00 pesos and a  study trip to Hong Kong!  MAJOR DIBA!)

I liked this group a lot! They are the Chains for Change group, whose business idea is to transform old clothes into fashionable handbags! I love how my advocacy RAGS TO RICHES inspired them! They won the 2nd prize!!! (200,000.00 pesos and a study trip to Hong Kong! MAJOR DIBA!)

 The gold goes to the group called BELEAVERS!  The business idea was creating semi disposable plates from fallen coconut leaves!  I loved the energy of their presentation and the banter between the two presenters were really in-sync. I also like the BARONG tagalog outfit as the rest of the groups were in suits these young men stood out for me because they wore the national shirt!  Plus they really had a SOLID business idea!  For this they win a whopping 300,000.00 pesos!!!!  Plus the honor to represent the country in the international Young Entrepreneur Awards to be held in Hong Kong!  Congratulations guys!  I know that you will do very very well in the International finals!

The gold goes to the group called BELEAVERS! The business idea was creating semi-disposable plates from fallen coconut leaves! I loved the energy of their presentation and the banter between the two presenters were really in-sync. I also like the BARONG Tagalog outfits,as the rest of the groups were in suits. These young men stood out for me because they wore the national shirt! Plus they really had a SOLID business idea! For this, they win a whopping 300,000.00 pesos!!!! Plus the honor to represent the country in the international Young Entrepreneur Awards to be held in Hong Kong! Congratulations guys! I know that you will do very very well in the international finals!

HUGS!
RAJO!