Christmas 2021 Wishlist

It's the time of the year again when we receive the spirit of love, compassion and hope (and possibly generosity). Also, it's the season when I advocate to support local brands, attempt furoshiki or simply refrain from using gift wrappers that will just end up in the landfills and giving mindful gifts. Growing up, I've disliked giving out wish lists; it makes me feel materialistic and unappreciative of whatever the gift-giver will hand to me. But, now, after decades of receiving gifts that eventually gather dust somewhere, I realized it's okay to express what you really, really want.  (♫♪♫ So tell me what you want, what you really, really want...♪♪)

This year had been life-changing. After surviving severe COVID-19 (read: 17-day hospital stay), I have learned that self care is the best gift we can give ourselves EVERYDAY. And just like what Thich Nhat Hanh had said in his book, "To take care of ourselves is to take care of our whole community," This is what some working mommas (like me!) tend to forget. 

So, I shall attempt to make a round down of my wish list slash self care recommendation for us all:

1. Vimala font for my blogs

Since December 2020, I've been trying to change my life one sketch pad at a time. I've been learning to correct my hand grip (it's been wrong all my life!) and practice self-acknowledgement, among others, through cursive handwriting. So, I wish I can see Vimala letters on my blogs as well. 

W: The letter of the teacher

2. Sign up for this kind of Life Coaching 

I have benefitted from life coaching this year! And I would love to be coached  by Jennifer Crebin because.

3. To finally take home our own N4! We're almost there! 

Before the pandemic struck, I have been frequenting the nearest best house to get the warmth I badly needed. (In my consultation with Doc Brawner, he advised me that I need warmth. Long story.) I looove how this heating massage makes me feel relaxed while releasing toxins (without making me run and my knees cry out). After an 1-hour session, I can feel my back pains go away and just 3 consecutive days of use, I noticed the disappearance of dry spots on my arm. I can't wait to finally take home our own unit and for the healing that awaits me and my family.

4. The great outdoors! 

I was truly blessed to spend my birthday weekend in Indang, Cavite for some badly-needed date with Mother Nature. Took my daughter and our friends for a morning of forest school-ing and laughter and everything immune system-boosting! I'm glad that Tita Shawi allowed the kids-at-heart to hang out with the kids this time (during our first time to try this, us parents ended up having coffee while the kids explored the scenery) so we had our share of sunshine, fresh air and wet-look kodakan with awesome crown shyness as our background. 

Photo by Cheryl Fajardo

5. The FEELINGS kit (and possibly all the essential oils in the world!!!)

In pranic healing, we believe that a disease can be seen in the energy body even before it manifests itself on the physical body. As somebody who tend to soldier on, I knoooow I've been ignoring layers upon layers of sob stories by being too engrossed in crossing out tasks in my never-ending to-do list. I hardly pause to smell the tequila black coffee in front of me.

When I tested positive for COVID-19, I knew it was a reminder to release those pent-up thoughts. In traditional Chinese medicine, loneliness is associated with lungs and fear is connected to the kidneys (the latter I probably need to explain in a separate post). 

Thankfully, I got to experience the FEELINGS kit, and my heart truly sighed and wept for the declarations we had to say for each oil (Example: "I allow myself to connect with my inner child and regain my true essence back,"). Aside from this, I am truly indebted to the great souls who took the time to listen to my woes.

Photo by Roa Anne

Which leads me to my next point. I'd like to pay it forward. I'd like to host the same scenario and invite equally overwhelmed mommas or grieving friends or friends-of-friends for an afternoon of soul-baring, exchange of it's-okay-not-to-be-okay cries. In fact, I have long been imagining this kind of gathering, and, for moms, I wanted to provide activities for our kids to be busy with and happy adults to watch over them while we are engaged in this circle. Sighs. 

6. Sign up for Aromatherapy in Action!

Speaking of essential oils, why not take this healing experience deeper and dive into a study so I can help me and my community better? *sniffs Abundance essential oil so I can receive $997 out of nowhere*

7. Tea-rrific time at TWG!

Friends, please date me! This extrovert badly needs it!

8. More guyabano juice (for me) and dalandan juice (for my daughter)!

We looooove these drinks so much!

9. Fun designs for new bras!

Well, it seems that we will start to slowly return to the 'old' normal, and so I might not be alone in this need to unearth our forgotten armors. Mine took a long break and it could use another break. And puuuuh-lease, where can I find fun designs?

10. A night with Adele (kahit virtual lang) and then we'll sing Spice Girls songs!

I have this feeling that singing (badly) and the ensuing laughing can help me strengthen my lungs (yep, I was told full recovery could take mooooonths). Don't you just miss belting out with your buddies? It doesn't have to be as grand as our #Spookyoke Night back in 2013, but it has to be THAT  fun! 

11. Bloggiversary celebration! 

Speaking of Pinay Curvies, I have completely forgotten that this blog has turned ten-year-old this year! I'm such a bad momma! Well, I'm blaming it on my inability to manage my time well and the determination to pursue bloggable ideas in recent years. Don't worry, I've started following this procrastination coach and I'll arm myself with planners this 2022. But right now, I would really like to celebrate 10 years even though most of the time I was rather inactive. Pwede ba 'yung tipo ng celebration na a-attend na lang ako? Hahaha!

A girl can dream, right?

Real-Life Goddess: Asher Ann Cabangon

Have you ever met a stranger and felt sooo drawn to her? I'm sure you can relate.

I met this beautiful stranger in a pranic healing center and spent time talking about energy bodies. Today, we finally get to talk about our physical bodies! 

I would like you to meet my dear friend, Asher.

Lornadahl: How would you describe your personal fashion style?

Asher: Very simple and comfortable. I usually wear sleeveless, plain and dark-colored t-shirts, shorts and leggings. But I am now transitioning into wearing dresses since I find it comfortable and more formal.

Lornadahl: Which celebrities serve as your style icons?

Asher: Actually, I don't have one since I am happy with the way I dress up.

Lornadahl: How hard is it to get clothes that fit you? Any particular body part that makes shopping extra challenging?

Asher: OMG! So hard! I rarely buy new clothes but when I see something that I like, I definitely go for it. However, I usually have a hard time fitting them in my bust, arms and legs. Ang ending, I can't buy it na since it doesn't fit me and it really feels frustrating 'coz I looked like suman.

Lornadahl: That's sad. How about accessories? What's the best for big women?

Asher: Hmmm...I think earrings. You can wear them without worrying that they won't fit your body. Also, it highlights your face especially when you tie up your hair.

Lornadahl: If you were to endorse a local clothing for big women, what would it be and why?

Asher: As I've said, I rarely buy new clothes so I don't usually have a local brand. But when it comes to sportswear, I recommend Decathlon since they have a variety of sizes that would fit me unlike our local brands.

Lornadahl: When you pick up a magazine or watch TV, do you see bodies that look like yours that aren't being desexualized, or used to signify laziness, ignorance or lack of self-control?

Asher: In magazines, NO! But now that social media is becoming a new platform for advertisements, YES! I am happy to see commercials and billboards that show plus size models! I really admire those companies that show the reality about our body especially women's.

Lornadahl: How do you deal with I'm-so-fat-and-ugly days?

Asher: I exercise or I eat ice cream! Either of the two, depending on my mood. Haha!

Lornadahl: Do you think a great number of Pinoy men appreciate big girls?

Asher: Not really. There may be some but most of them still like girls who have small waist, big boobs and butt. You can see it on social media. Men like and react more to sexy girls than big girls. 

Lornadahl: If you would appear on a billboard or magazine cover, how would you look like?

Asher: The way I am. No make-up, no accessories, wearing a nude color sando and shorts in a forest with waterfalls. Just like when Eve came to the world but not totally naked. Haha! Seriously, I just want to look natural, looking afar.

Lornadahl: What's the secret behind your self-confidence and body acceptance?

Asher: My only secret is just to be happy the way I am. If you keep listening to the people around you, to lose weight or to refrain from overeating, you will end up being frustrated. It's YOUR BODY! You are the only one who has the right to decide what you want to do with it. So choose to be happy without listening to other people's opinions. 

Lornadahl: For most people, including myself, acceptance took a long while. Tell us how your journey went. Any defining moment, any influential person in your life that made it happen?

Asher: It took me 3 years before I fully accepted the new me. Not to brag, but I used to be one of those girls who were idolized during my teens. There were times that I was afraid to attend meet-ups or reunions 'coz I don't want to be the topic and end up getting embarrassed. I even stopped posting pictures on social media 'coz I was afraid that old friends will criticize me. 

My defining moment was when I went to Masasa Beach in Batangas with my friends and my mom. I used to wear bra and shorts whenever I go to the beach but I was really hesitant to wear the usual outfit that time. There were boys and they might compare me to my friends. My friends loved taking sexy pictures and, as #SquadGoals, they want to pose along with them. But I wasn't really comfortable with it since I'm big. As expected, I kept hearing people's comments like I am a balyena and the likes. Then, my mom took off her rash guard and had her photos taken with me. So I told myself, "My mom can do it, so how can't I? I don't care anymore what other people will say. I'm here at the beach to have fun and I won't let their body-shaming comments get into me!" So there, that was the defining moment for me.

Lornadahl: How did you discover pranic healing? Was it part of your self-love or body acceptance journey?

Asher: I discovered pranic healing through my mom. She made me attend the courses which were very helpful for my whole being. Pranic healing is an energy school conducting meditation and healing. You're right, it's a big part of my self-love journey. I understand myself even more! I learned to forgive myself and to give more love to people who continue to criticize me. Also to be more kind to myself and other people. It made me realize that inner beauty is more important than being beautiful only on the outside. 

Lornadahl: True! I recall being drawn to you because you project this positive aura and you have this infectious smile! Sana all! So, what is beautiful about being big?

Asher: People can easily recognize you! Sometimes people mistook me as an expectant mom and they allow me skip the long queues. Haha! Kidding aside, I think I became prettier and sexier with the curves that I have right now. 

Lornadahl: How do you respond to the argument that obesity is unhealthy?

Asher: Actually, this may vary to different people. There are people who have underlying medical conditions which is why they can't lose weight. There are some who have eating disorders who can't control themselves. And there are people who have genetically obtained their body types. Some people may be skinny but has more medical problems than those with bigger bodies. I'm just saying that we have no right to judge other people without knowing their story. Yes, obesity is unhealthy but we must consider some factors before we blame them for being obese or unhealthy.

Lornadahl: Do you worry that, when you talk about feeling of sexual attraction, people are repelled or disgusted by the size of your body/

Asher: Yes, it's so humiliating! Some even tease you of who can possibly endure the sight of your body!

Lornadahl: How do you feel if people stare at you? yell degrading stuff at you? Do you ever experience that?

Asher: I'm not really comfortable when people stare at me even during my skinny days, how much more now. I experienced people say degrading stuff, this is common in public transportation. Especially in jeepney drivers who force you to move so they can squeeze in more passengers.

Lornadahl: Do you ever confront people? What happens when you do?

Asher: Rarely. It's okay for close friends to tease me. If random people, it's not okay. Some apologized to me and let them feel sorry for what they have done. But I let it go when I feel that it was a sincere apology.

Lornadahl: What do fat people want to be called?

Asher: The way they prefer to be called. We should ask. In my case, I want to be called by my name.

Lornadahl: Does a big woman's self-appreciation and self-love root from the culture/environment she's accustomed to? What can you say about Filipinas and their self-appreciation?

Asher: Somehow. Even if you have a strong belief in yourself, there are times when you will feel down because of the negative comments you hear from other people, including your relatives.

To Filipinas out there, build your confidence. We cannot expect from other people that they will boost ours. Sometimes it's our fellow Filipinos who drag us down. Crab mentality is still an ongoing issue. So, be your own happiness.

Lornadahl: Some big girls are unaware that they're beautiful and sexy. What would you tell them?

Asher: Start finding your inner beauty. Being kind to yourself is the first step. Appreciate the small things about you. Keep on reminding yourself everyday that you are beautiful. What you perceive in yourself is what others will perceive in you. Stay positive and believe in yourself!

.

MUSIC MONDAY: Peter Gabriel - My Body Is A Cage

♫♪♫ I'm living in an age ♪♪

♫♫ Whose name I don't know ♪♫

♪♫ Though the fear keeps me moving ♫♪♫ 

♪♫♪ Still my heart beats so slow ♫♫

This 2020, our own body has become a cage. Out fears took over; we can't afford to be generous of our own presence, to warm others with our smiles and embrace. And why not? There's too much uncertainty going on.

But, hey, fears weakens our immune system. Let's try to breathe deeper and imagine ourselves in a group hug while out in a park or in a sea shore. Do it now. And then tomorrow.

Allow me to share this verse and may it help you on our joint journey to health and normalcy:

Health Verse

O spirit of God—fill my I,

Fill my I within my soul,

On my soul bestow a strength’ning force,

Strength’ning force too for my heart,

For my heart that seeketh Thee,

Seeketh Thee with deepest longing,

Deepest longing for good health,

For good health and trust in life,

Trust in life that through my body streams,

Streams as precious gift divine,

Gift divine from Thee, O Spirit of God,

O Spirit of God, fill my I.

Everything I Need to Re-learn, I Learnt in Kindergarten

Who would have thought that a desk jockey like me would end up being a kindergarten assistant teacher? I admit I have avoided babysitting duties ever since I nearly lost grip of my newborn cousin headfirst on a cemented ground back in the early 90's. Even after giving birth, I felt fearful tears blurred my vision and had to delegate the supposedly blissful task of bathing my daughter to my experienced mother. Fast forward today: I am acting as loco parentis of not one, but about twenty young children. What gives?

Having a child of your own will make you retrace your steps to your own childhood. If I breastfeed too long, will my daughter show up in school carrying a milk bottle like I did? Should she go to school early like everyone else or should she show up when she turns six-year-old like I did...and end up breaking a pencil on Day 1 since four- and five-year-olds outpaced her in writing As in a sheet of lined paper?

The next thing I knew, those baby steps turned into giant leaps, and I found myself opting for a career change with lots of trembling. I was convinced my daughter is asking me to follow in the footsteps of our countless foremothers - something that my mother asked me to veer away from. 

That's probably enough flashback for you. This is going to be a long read, so let me begin sharing what I have finally re-learned and embraced in my surreal return in kindergarten:

1. White is Nice!

Like what I have disclosed here, I am too clumsy to be charming in white. Even avoided wearing white on my wedding day! White outfits are hardly welcome in my closet, so imagine my worry when they said kindergarten teachers should wear pastels and plain whites, the latter being necessary when we are to perform puppet shows.

My mentor, Tita Marie, said kindergarten teachers should personify angels, making it ideal that we wear light-colored, flowing dresses underneath our aprons. What's more, I learned that, in a Waldorf school, what a teacher knows is just a bonus. What truly matters is who she is. A teacher stands as a loving authority worthy of imitation and his/her personality influences young children on who they will become. I've heard of this countless times before, but it finally became experiential knowledge when my students' playtime or my daughter's drawings mirrored my own thoughts or feelings (even if they were suppressed). And I've seen older students who took after their Main Teacher. 

So it took me a lot of conviction to wear whites in and outside the classroom. And the pressure to channel celestial beings made it doubly difficult. And the heavens heard me: it's the children instead who taught me. When they get soaked in the mud, they shower and change. When they get stained, they shrug it off. It's not permanent, anyway. So why can't I do the same? 

One time, when I thought I left my worries behind before I stepped inside the classroom, I was dumbfounded when this child shouted, "TEACHER, LET GO!" Of course, he meant that I should relinquish him as he swings on the ropes, but it felt different. It haunted me for days and nights until I started to loosen up.

 

NOTE: These outfits were NOT worn inside the classroom. 

2. Take Off Your Armor.

Suddenly, I found myself bare-faced. Gone were my signature dangling earrings, pussy red lipsticks, vanilla-scented lotion and cucumber-and-melon cologne. Well, it's really not advisable to wear jewelry in the presence of young children to prevent any torn earlobes, scratches and the likes, and I have been trained in that since my daughter arrived. 

But I confess I struggled in getting rid of my make-up and scents. See, I have been accustomed to centralized air conditioning since my first job in 2003 and my overactive sweat glands sobbed hard when I discovered our classrooms will be well-ventilated. But artificial odors in colognes and other products were not recommended for young children. It's the first of the twelve senses that would prompt them to make judgments and they are not yet ripe for early intellectualization. 

This is also the point when I truly realized why I love bright red lipsticks, aside from the fact that I find reds extremely attractive. Upon deep introspection, I realized that I hated my dark lips and I wanted to hide them! But, just like my belly rolls and other flaws, it is a part of who I am and I will not allow something like this prevent me from performing my duties to the children of the world. 

And so I decided to let go. This is my face and my face wants to do an Alicia Keys Appreciation Day every school day, whenever I feel like it. It was liberating!

New me: Bare face, bare feet and covered all over

3. Finding the Silver Lining.

Little did I know that I would be calm over the appearance of my salt and pepper hair. I recall going gaga upon seeing the first wave of silver hair during graduate school (2005-2009) and heaving a huge sigh of relief when they disappeared. 

It's making a loud comeback this year and I welcomed it as a manifestation of wisdom creeping in. I just hope I can live up to it! If I don't, then I'll forgive myself. Which is something these lovely children can generously give me. What have I done right to finally learn to laugh again and cease taking myself too seriously?

Why I'm Rooting for Nadine Lustre

When my fellow plus size women and/or post-pregnancy mums get bashed for wearing swimsuits in the beach, it is always initially infuriating. Then I calm down and remind myself that most people are still not ready. But when the likes of Nadine Lustre gets a seemingly endless round of nasty remarks for doing so, I can't help but feel appalled and sad for them. So who are the select ones 'allowed' to be seen donning a bikini? Are we talking about a small fraction of the world population? That's nuts.

Some of Nadine Lustre's post about her recent getaway

[Seeing these actually makes me wanna run to the beach, too.]

And all keyboard warriors unite to find faults in her body and her bikini. 

Photo lifted from Google Images.

Just like how Boy Abunda reacted to these photos, I find Nadine Lustre sexy...in a holistic way. I like how she often smiles and how she makes my bungisngis self want to laugh along with her. Her hair is beautiful and I like how she seems to prefer it tied up in a ponytail when she's off-duty. I appreciate her morena skin (and I hope she keeps it, in spite of this). And her eyes! And her clavicle! And her legs! To put it simply, I find her beautiful and yet very relatable. So why criticize her for having stretch marks, baby fats, unflattering bra and God knows what else when you can most likely see the same thing/s on your body? And why look down on her as if having Pinay attributes is something to be ashamed of?

In the book Team Real, Nadine Lustre admits she finds herself ordinary-looking and even went on naming her flaws. The thing is, she embraces her body - assets or imperfections alike. For someone who has a longer list of so-called 'factory defects' and probably longer history of body-shaming and self-doubt, I find it truly mature for a 22-year-old to embody self-acceptance. It took me longer to fully love and celebrate my own, you know.

Now let's go beyond the physical. I've seen a million behind-the-scene clips, I've watched her in press cons and I've seen her in the flesh once and and I can say that there's more to love about this woman. 

 Let's hear it from this guy. 

Now let's hear it from Ms. Personality herself.

You gotta love this girl. Simple pero rock. There's a lot of testimonials saying how independent, down-to-earth, accommodating and warm she is. On- and off-cam, mind you. They say she'll drive herself to work and carry her own stuff to the set. She can't say no to requests for photo opps. And I could just imagine how she can light up the entire room when she walks in. By now, you've probably seen photos of how involved she is in home renovations or household chores. In this day and age wherein self-entitlement somehow becomes more common than common sense, I consider this a welcome change. 

Plus I find her really smart (watch her interviews and you'll know what I mean) and talented. I like the quality of her singing voice, her comic timing and I'm particularly impressed with her photography and editing skills. Seriously, I can hardly wait for the follow-up music video to this! Much respect for stars with behind-the-cam aspirations, too. Fans calling her a "game changer" must be right; she's truly someone tomorrow's generations could emulate. 

But, wait. There's more! Nadine Lustre sometimes explodes...and she's not scared to express it. If it were true that talo ang pikon, then she's probably not frightened to lose. How fierce! For me, it's always better to be honest if you're hurt or pissed off than give everyone a false impression. She's as real as it gets and, if it were true that everything she does is merely publicity stunts, I'm sure she'll eventually get tired of being someone she's not. And it's OK if you don't share my opinion.

One of her 'patola' moments...that ironically made me appreciate her more.

I've read so many demeaning comments directed to her in so many who-wore-it-better polls and showbiz articles and I'm actually shocked they never run out of negative things to say. This lady hardly deserves it! Sure, some of her poses look kinda awkward and some of her portrayals calls for improvement, but I choose to appreciate her for who she is and I refuse to compare or associate her with somebody else. I choose to be inspired by how she reminds us that beauty and sexiness can't be tied to our flesh alone. I choose to laud her for giving her best now and for aiming to be a better artist tomorrow. I choose to look forward to the days she'll remain grounded while being able to entertain us in a different level and at the same time motivate us plain Janes and 'pangets' that we can reach our dreams, too. That's why I'm rooting for her, not just for FHM or any award-giving bodies. I'm rooting for her success in all aspects in life. Achieve na achieve!

And for the bashers, I don't expect this short blog entry will make you change your minds about Nadine Lustre. But I appeal for you all to watch your thoughts and be more careful in judging others. After all, your hurtful words reflect more about you - your background, your issues, etc. Let's just agree to disagree and refrain from spreading negativity. And if you don't like what you see on TV and billboards, then just look away. Stop the hate!

Spread love!

MUSIC MONDAY: Daysha Edewi - What If I Knew I Was Beautiful…

"You say I don't know I'm beautiful
But what if I did?
What if I looked in the mirror and actually liked what I saw?
Make-up or no make-up, flaws and all
What if I woke up really feeling myself
And could pose a selfie on Instagram without any self-doubt
No questions, contemplations or hesitations
Because the only person's confirmation I would need... is my own"

Beautiful words for YOU, beautiful woman! :) 

15 Local Kikay Brands To Support

This 2015, I encourage you to to look for local brands to support and pass on your raves to family, friends and online followers. Allow me to contextualize this friendly reminder: Buying from local businesses makes you assist work-from-home nanays put food on the table, tatays pay mortgage or kuyas pag college tuition instead of helping bossings or country managers purchase his third home away from home. Besides, gone were the days when our own products hardly look enticingly world-class and only foreign consumers can enjoy our finest exports. Let me give you 15 reasons to believe in tatak Pilipino.

1.) Human Heart Nature

If you've been following this blog, you'll notice that I mention this brand a lot and you've probably read my disclosure that I'm a dealer myself. See, true to their core values as pro-Philippines, pro-poor and pro-environment, Human Heart Nature has been producing all-natural personal care products using locally-sourced and ethically-acquired materials and employing Gawad Kalinga residents and farmers since 2008. 

As a testament to the safety and effectiveness of their products, particularly their best-selling items like sunflower beauty oil (read: 23-in-1 miracle worker for pimples, stretch marks, dull hair, sun burn, eye bags, insect bites, dark lips and more!), hair care and facial wash and toners, their following continue to rise after every product release. In the recent years, they introduced their mineral make-up line comprised of the popular pressed powder, mineral blush and tinted lip balms. And they refused to rest on their laurels; PR Manager Tish Martinez-Castillo says they release spanking new products every 8 weeks and they offer improved formulations for existing products depending on clients' feedback and requests. 

Nurse/dealer Edzel Love Suobiron, for instance, loves the latest batch of Mineral ColorCreme lipsticks the most for its creamy feel on her lips and for being the perfect match for her dusky skin tone. And speaking of, Human Heart Nature does NOT intend to come up with whitening products because they believe in the awesomeness of the kayumanggi skin. Awesome, right?

Some of Human Heart Nature's best-selling items. Photos lifted from the website.

2.) Milea Bath and Body Wellness 

Edilee Omoyon was just making natural soaps and moisturizers for her son who's long battling with skin asthma. Little did she know that her intensive research would lead to creation of soaps as requested by family, friends and eventually clients, thus giving birth to Milea. This journey made her build more products for All Organics (bath and baby), Milea Baby (baby products), Milea Mineral Make-Up (chemical-free cosmetics) and Coco Bee (bee products). You guessed it right. Her solution for skin asthma, particularly the goat's milk honey oatmeal soap, and lemongrass facial toner (works as make-up remover, too) are the most in-demand items. In their cosmetic line, clients are raving about bee propolis concealer stick, metallic powder eye shadow (available in 14 shades), powder blusher (available in 5 colors) and sassy lip creme (available in 10 shades).

When asked what makes Milea different from other organic brands, Edilee says they do not mass produce to ensure customers will get to use fresh cosmetics. They also grow their own raw materials in Milea Bee Farm in San Jose, Batangas. In fact, Edilee allows "beesita sa bukid" for interested parties. 

Milea's most-requested products. Photos lifted from the official website.

3.) Rags2Riches

It takes gifted eye to see fashion in scraps of cloth, yes? But don't be quick to conclude; Rags2Riches founder Reese Fernandez has a bigger fashion statement: she asks YOU to wear your compassion.

I recall being moved during her turn to speak about her enterprise during this social marketing bootcamp. Upon realizing how middlemen exploited the rug-weavers in Payatas (controlled access to the market hence so little profit), the team opted to empower these artisans and train them to make creative fashion pieces and, eventually, home decors, using upcycled scraps, organic and indigenous materials. They even teamed up with big names like Rajo Laurel, Oliver Tolentino, Amina Aranaz-Alunan and Olivia d’Aboville to give their handwoven handbags, wallets, purses, wristlets and others an appealing touch.

Today, R2R continues to expand and lift talented Filipino artisans from poverty. After all, her company’s philosophy is firmly rooted on People (quality of life + quality of dreams), Planet (shared home and shared future), Profit (surplus for sustainability) and Positive Influence (belief in the power of generosity).

Some of R2R's awesome designs. Photos from their fanpage.

4.) Jacinto & Lirio
Did you know that production of leather necessitates slaughter of billion animals every year? These industries also use dangerous chemicals like mineral salts, formaldehyde and coal-tar derivatives, among others. Read about it here. Good thing Filipino innovators discovered that the stalk of water hyacinth or water lilies can be turned into a leather-like material!

Jacinto & Lirio founder, Noreen Bautista, collaborated with Cora Jacob (or Cora Jacobs as she is known globally), the renowned Filipino eco-chic bag designer and regarded as the pioneer of Philippine handbag design, for their first collection of plant leather bags. And the rest, as they say, is history. Aside from handbags, they now have made journals, iPad cases, planners and laptop wraps. And it's exciting to know what new items they'll come up with next!

Some of Jacinto & Lirio's bag and planner designs. Photos lifted from their official website.

5.) Ever Bilena
Ever wondered what's in sexy star Ellen Adarna's kikay kit and what particular cosmetic the award-winning actress Eugene Domingo hoards? It's Ever Bilena's lip and cheek tint! In her KrisTV guesting, Ellen swears by how it gives her a long-lasting natural-looking blush. Such a good steal for P135!

Ellen Adarna raves about her kikay must-have from Ever Bilena. Screenshots from YouTube. 

For make-up artist Danielle Leonardo, she appreciates the creamy texture of their black and brown eyeliners as it is truly easy for her to blend it with eye shadows. Also, she lauds their matte lipsticks, particularly the Pink Flame and Skin shades.

In a nutshell, most blog reviews spell satisfaction in how this household name can keep up with international brands and provide high-end quality for affordable price tag.

6.) FS Cosmetics, formerly known as F21 Cosmetics

Make-up artist Fanny Serrano's own cosmetic line had been getting the much-coveted nods from beauty awards since 2004. Their eyelash curler, for instance, is something beauty blogger Jolly considers a "nice dupe of Shu Uemura" happens to be a Cosmo Beauty Award winner in 2006 and 2009. Make-up artist Danielle Leonardo raves about the two-way cake for being good-to-go upon application and being as effective as M.A.C.'s studio fix powder. Both Jolly and Danielle adore their pigmented eye shadows; it's easy to blend, long-lasting, budget-friendly, plus it offers wide array of color options that complements the Pinay skin.

Fanny Serrano Cosmetics' award-winning products: concealers, eyelash curler and blush-on.

7.) Happy Skin Cosmetics
Everybody loves Happy Skin! Celebrities, beauty experts and bloggers here and abroad are raving about their high-quality products. Their fun, witty product names such as Don't Get Mad Get Even, Eye Need A Miracle, Eye Love View, Feeling Sculptacular, Shut Up And Kiss Me, along with their eye-catching packaging, delight make-up junkies. What's more, the products are true to their promises. The lippies are moisturizing, pigmented and long-lasting. Founders Jacqe Yuegtian-Gutierrez and Rissa Mananquil-Trillo truly know how to make Pinay skin happy.

Clever product names! Photos lifted from their website.

8.) Shoe Cycle
Do you know that burning rubber tires produces toxic pollutants that affect the air we breathe in? According to Green Living, there are approximately 2.1 million waste tires in Luzon alone every year. Such an alarming figure, right? Thanks to Shoe Cycle, those discarded tires get converted into comfortable and impressive footwear. Oxfords, boat shoes, espadrilles, sandals, name it - they've got it! Also, each "scraptire" is carefully handled by Marikina shoemakers, so you can count on its durability.

Check out Shoe Cycle's cool designs. Photos grabbed from their fanpage. 

9. Ono All-Natural Skin Care Products
It all started when Cebu-based May Pono found existing organic brands to be too expensive, prompting her to create her own soaps for personal use. All of a sudden, her Facebook posts started getting inquiries from interested buyers. Her soaps became an instant hit!

Raw vegan chef Lakapati Basa says, "Their products work well for me. The soaps are gentle and they are not ridden with chemicals plus the price is right." Imagine paying only P25 for soaps, P50 for deo cream, P50 for body butter and P50 for sunscreen lotion - all handmade, unscented and all-natural! They also have a wide variety of options to choose from - carrot-olive, olive cleanse, moringa lemongrass, milk, oat and rice, coffee and cream, papaya whitening, papaya-turmeric, olive-turmeric, olive tea tree, mangosteen, neem-lemongrass, aloe vera soaps and more!

Ono All-Natural Skin Care Products. Photos from their fanpage. 

10.) Belle & Cat Nail and Wax Studio
There are so many reasons to love this place! Friendly staff, cozy place plus a wide array of services to offer: nail care, facials, waxing, massage, hair and make-up, spa party packages and equally long list of nail polishes and nail art designs to choose from.

But, wait, there's more! Have you ever been in a situation that calls for emergency mani+pedi with polish then you suddenly realize you're wearing closed shoes? Well, Belle & Cat happens to be ready for that que horror moment. They actually sell flip flops! And they have consigned items from proudly-Pinoy brands such as Human Heart Nature, Simoy ng Haraya (try their 4-in-1 nail care fix!), Snoe Beauty and Leyende (they'll be re-launching their products soon!)

Plus, if you're quite reluctant to have your Brazilian wax or full body massage done after a long, stressful day at work, their neat comfort room can help you relax and condition your mind for the rewarding experience that lies ahead. In case you didn't know you'll end up getting waxed that day, fret not. They have ready all-natural products for you.

Belle & Cat's cozy spot. Photos from their website.

Currently, they have temporarily ceased operations in their Esteban corner Dela Rosa Sts, Legaspi Village, Makati branch. They will soon unveil their new location, so stay tuned for their announcements.

11.) Manos Nail Lounge
Here's another great place to get pampered and enjoy peace and quiet. They offer mani+pedi, spa treatments, paraffin, massage and waxing services. You'll be delighted to know that they have mani+pedi services for men and divas-in-the-making (13-year-olds and below), too!

Sure, most nail salons provide refreshments for their patrons. But it's heartwarming to see that they purposely choose to offer only locally-grown coffee and tea, including the all-Filipino iced tea Bayani Brew. What's more, if you're not fashion or showbiz magazines, Manos has a handful of fictional reads to choose from. And if you're a 90's kid like me, you're in for a pleasant treat!

Everyday is throwback day in Manos!

12. Chubbly
Here's another brand that plus size fashionistas should know. As Aries de Guzman of Erzullie put it, "Chubbly rocks because Chami Viray, the designer behind it, is a passionate, explorative and highly imaginative person. It reflects on every piece that she makes." Since its launch in 2012, Chubbly had been producing both classic and edgy RTW clothes and accessories for plus size Pinays.

Recently, Chami collaborated with proudly-Filipino makers of artisan shoes, Risque Designs, for this year's collection. While Risque is known for its signature use of embroidery, wood-carving and hand-weaving and local fabrics, Chubbly x Risque designs are rather subdued, but equally eye-catching and chic!

 Here's a little throwback of Chubbly's earlier clothing designs. Photos obtained from their fanpage. 

Chubbly x Risque designs. Photo from Chami Viray.

13. Snoe Beauty
Snoe Beauty, the new breed of all-natural yet inexpensive make-up, started capturing the beauty market since its establishment in 2010. The wordplay in product name such as Stink Positive!, Eau La La, Awesome Poresome, reminds us of the typical Pinoy humor. According to make-up artist/blogger Maita Atienza-Diaz, their make-up is a good dupe for M.A.C.. In her review here, she noted how their powder blended well with her skin an how it suits all skin tones. And if you're the kind of consumer who checks the label, you'd be happy to know that Snoe Beauty takes pride in their chemical-free ingredients. They even dedicated a space in their website called snoepedia to give you an informed choice before you make that purchase. With their clever and well-designed packaging plus high-quality product line, it is no surprise that Snoe already embarked to conquer the world's attention.

Some of Snoe's beauty products. Photos lifted fro their website.

14. Ganchillyou
What comes to mind when you hear the word "crochet"? How about "crochet fashion accessories"? You should check out Bella Joy Bardollas's designs for Ganchillyou and see for yourself that, yes, it is possible! You have to hand it to this yarn whisperer on how she can whip up colorful, bohemian conversation pieces.

Some of Gancillyou's eye-catching designs. Photos lifted from their Instagram account. 

15. Apartment 8
Ever wondered where your favorite stars and bloggers get their fun and flirty wardrobe? The good news is, you can get hold of Apartment 8's sexy and highly-popular cut-outs, head-turning prints and other celebrated designs as easy as heart-ing a friend's Instagram post. If you prefer to make your own fashion ideas materialize, you may contact them to do so. And they also welcome visits in their shop in South Triangle, Quezon City and stores in Greenhills Shopping Center and The Ramp outlets.

There you go, 15 brands that we can be truly proud of. But, hey, the list of high-quality locally-made products doesn't end here. There's a LOT of proudly Pinoy-made products waiting to be discovered so always be on the lookout for the next kikay find or fashion-forward outfit and share your satisfactory statements about those items with matching #SupportLocalEconomy and/or #PinoyPride on your social media accounts. After all, our country's biggest contribution to the world would have to be our unparalleled artistry, enthutsiasm to serve, passion for pretty things and consistent online presence. Wait, that's four gifts to the world already! Well, that's how well we Pinoys rock!

NOTE: This article appeared on The Philippine Online Chronicles. Click, click!

Proudly made in the PH Part 1

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