Real-Life Goddess - Elli Isaac

How I met Ziggy's mother? We first crossed paths during Saleng, my first benefit gig for Traveling Bonfires. The spoken word artists weren't in cue yet but we gave in to this lady's request to share her just-written poem to the Conspiracy crowd. With my long history of nocturnal exploits, I understood the urgency when she stated she had to leave for work that evening. Ok, ok. Open mic muna!

Our next series of benefit events for breast cancer awareness would not have been as memorable without her participation and generous support. Elli Isaac agreed to model, together with a breast cancer survivor, for the nude sketching session. The artworks from the renowned artists of Artventures@Conspiracy were exhibited during the benefit gig entitled Alab ng Dibdib. This time, Elli served as the host.

However, I wasn't able to return the favor by attending the book launching of Ipuipo sa Piging - Mga Tula at Isang Bidyula wherein her poetry was included. Again, graveyard shift got in the way. What amazes me is how we end up seeing each other in random events like the 2nd Manila Skafest and NU 107's farewell "party", among others.

Bumping into Elli during NU 107's last night on air
L-R: Danna, Elli and my newly-digital permed self

Lornadahl: We Pinays are bombarded with reminders that "white is right". Have you always been convinced that brown is beautiful?
Elli: I'm not really into skin color. But yeah, it's common to tag those white ass chicks to be really pretty.

Lornadahl: If you grew up thinking that only the mestizas are beautiful, how did you make a major mental turnaround and embrace the skin you're in?
Elli: It's my skin. It's me. Random people comment they love my skin color and I look like I just came back from the beach. Isn't that a luxury?

Lornadahl: So you never grew up thinking you're less attractive because of your skin color? You're lucky!
Elli: Do not get me wrong. I get oh-so fugly days most of the times. But it has nothing to do with my complexion.



Lornadahl: Did you ever try whitening products, too? Any rants and raves to share?
Elli: I'm not really into beauty products. I learned using makeup only a year ago when I modelled for a friend's make up class. I'm the type of woman who wakes up, smokes a cigarette, takes a bath, towels dry, fits in some clothes and leaves the house.

And face the world with laughter, yes?

Lornadahl: I used to think that being morena is limited to black outfits. I hated how I looked in white, pink, yellow and orange. How about you? Any colors you find unflattering for our skin type?
Elli: I try any color. Earth colors are still the best. I have to admit that my favorite color is pink and I love wearing it now. Just stop yourself wearing anything neon unless it's for a high fashion shoot.





And pink loves you back!

Lornadahl: Ouch. I had an episode of wearing neons in public. Haha! Don't you think it's a cool statement that non-celebrity morena women can feel like they're on high fashion shoot, too?
Elli: Of course! There's nothing wrong wearing what you feel like wearing, as long as you're able to carry yourself well. It has nothing to do with the people around you. As long as you're able to please yourself, you're good to go. Also, remember that when you're at your weirdest, you're wearing your true self. So just be yourself.

Lornadahl: Can you tell us what is your fashion style?
Elli: I like wearable clothes. Clothes that I could walk with, run with. I'm not into wearing heels. I'm into slippers, sneakers, and flats. My wardrobe is mainly composed of sando's and skirts too. I'm not into wearing jeans. I can't seem to find a perfect fit.

Lornadahl: Why is it hard for you to find jeans? Any particular problematic body part?
Elli: My hips and my waist seem to be not compatible with each other.

Lornadahl: Which celebrities serve as your fashion icons? Why?
Elli: I'm not good with names. And even if I am, I can't even name one. I'm not fond watching the boob tube nor checking magazines. I guess I have to say I have my hands up for Lady Gaga.

During the shoot for Victoria Court's Director's Cut Challenge, March 2010

Lornadahl: Do you think Pinoy men prefer mestizas over morenas?
Elli: Seriously, men prefer a woman who resembles their mom.

Lornadahl: How would you feel if fellow Pinoys call you "mukhang katulong" or "mukhang pokpok" because of your skin color?
Elli: I seriously don't care. Paulo Coelho said: What others think of you is none of your business.

Lornadahl: Do you consider dark men sexy? Why or why not?
Elli: With men like Richard Gomez and John Estrada, YES.

Lornadahl: Do you think you are/were treated differently because you're morena?
Elli: Color has nothing to do with how you're being treated. It comes with attitude.

Lornadahl: And you are a strong, outspoken woman. Who would dare to treat you differently, right?
Elli: Well, I've been getting comments that I'm intimidating. Fact is, a conversation starts with a hi, but don't expect it to come from me because even if I really like someone, I wouldn't start a conversation with him.

Lornadahl: Do you think being morena is better when you're slim? Would it also work for plus-size women?
Elli: I've been both so I don't think there should be a comparison.

Lornadahl: Do you confront people when they call you names (ex. baluga, kirara, etc)?
Elli: Well, the mere fact that I'm gaining attention is something. I just have to silently thank them that they're spending time talking about me.

Lornadahl: How do dark people want to be called?
Elli: I prefer sun-kissed. It's posh.

Lornadahl: What's your secret for that even skin tone? I'm envious!!!
Elli: Nothing. I just take a bath regularly.

Lornadahl: Do you also have a preferred skin tone for your romantic partners?
Elli: No. It has never been something I look for. I dig for the attitude and the outlook in life. I want someone crazy.

Lornadahl: How do you convince your son that brown is beautiful?
Elli: We never talk about that.

Elli and Ziggy

Lornadahl: What if your son asks you to try whitening products? What would you tell him?
Elli: Verbatim: "Sige, bibilhin ko 'yan pero kukunin ko sa allowance mo. Wala kang pambili ng meryenda mo for the next 15 days. Ok lang?" I bet he'll say no.

Lornadahl: Tell us about your tattoo.
Elli: The tattoo was designed by my coworker-friend Duane Pascua and was given as a gift while I was pregnant way back in 2006. It has been years of me wanting a tattoo that will define me as a whole. Then I realized that Duane's drawing was my totality. I was a walking abstract - often misunderstood even as a mother.

Mother and child tattoo

Lornadahl: Who's your artist?
Elli: PhilTag founder Nero Nievo is my tattoo artist. I only have one skin so it's better having the tattoo done by one of the best and pioneers of the tattoo industry.

Ziggy's name on her wrist

Lornadahl: Do you still get insecure about your complexion? get intimidated when surrounded by mestizas?
Elli: Never occured to me.

Lornadahl: How do you deal with I'm-so-fugly/dark days?
Elli: This usually happens when I lack sleep so I sleep instead.

Lornadahl: There are so many morenas out there who still battle with skin acceptance. What would you tell them?..
Elli: I think there's a commercial that said: Embrace the skin you're in!



All photos were lifted from her Facebook account.

***End of the Interview***

Lipstick Of The Day: Unknown

Who says puta red lipstick is just for the mestizas? For the past couple of years, it gave me unparalleled satisfaction to apply this default lip color of mine and prove those non-believers wrong. Loud and lovely, that's how my lips always wanted to look like.

Lipstick: Beats me. I just nabbed it from my mum's collection.

Can somebody tell me what this lipstick is?

Excuse the smears. That's what you get when you pose for the camera after sipping too much almond lassi. Or is it indulging on the mushroom cheese masala? Next time, I'll check my reflection in the mirror before camwhoring. Pinkie promise!

Inspiration: MindyTV's and Cheryl Bong's lippie diaries.
Photos: Anne Plaza
Design: Kay Nielo

Real-Life Goddess - Apaul Tatlonghari-Bello

During that awkward stage called adolescence, we struggled to discover our own identity and experience self-acceptance and, most likely, started by looking for role models and/or friends to be associated with. Amidst the high school and college populace where almost everybody wants to stand out and/or leave a mark, I found inspiration from a particular schoolmate (sorry, fair-skinned best friends!) whose simple yet elegant example reminds me that beauty can be effortless. With her consistently delightful smiles and charming exterior, it was easy for me to consider Apaul Tatlonghari-Bello a girl crush way back in high school.

Lornadahl: We Pinays are bombarded with reminders that "white is right". Have you always been convinced that brown is beautiful?
Apaul: I am. I never wanted to be a mestiza. I am proud Pinay! I just love my own color. I realized that we are blessed to have this complexion. Whereas people in the West spend lots of time and money going to a tanning salon just to achieve this kind of complexion.

Where can I get THAT smile?

Lornadahl: Did you ever try whitening products, too? Any rants and raves to share?
Apaul:: Yes... but for a short period only. Since my mom and I back then shared the same things. Hmnm.. something to share? Could that be a yearning? The most practical way is just to accept your color/complexion. Instead of spending money in those whitening products, use it productively like sharing it with your family or the needy.

Lornadahl: I used to think that being morena is limited to black outfits. I hated how I looked in white, pink, yellow and orange. How about you? Any colors you find unflattering for our skin type
Apaul: Back then, I had the same issue. So instead stop dwelling on it! The perfect solution is to embrace it! Now I'm bold in using different colors and wearing various outfits. Would you believe that my favorite color is white?

Lornadahl: Can you tell us what is your fashion style?
Apaul: Usually, my wardrobe staples are refined and sophisticated. I want to look sexy without wearing ass-skimming or boob-flashing clothes. Something with laid back vibe and looks effortlessly cool.

Looking perfect in purple!


Apaul goes for the black-and-red combo I'm also fond of


All-black!

Lornadahl: Which celebrities serve as your fashion icons? Why?
Apaul: Locally, I like Angel Aquino and Pam Quiñones. For international, I love Alexa Chung. All of them are epitome of beauty and style! Undeniably gorgeous! They always wowed us with some beautifully pulled-together looks with a unique ability to stay ahead of the trends.

Lornadahl: Do you consider dark men sexy? Why or why not?
Apaul: Ofcourse! Dark men look HOT and APPEALING. Derek Ramsay is the perfect example. Indeed sizzling hot. But sexy is subjective. For me, sexy is a lot of things: guys with self-confidence, sense of humor, beautiful eyes, honesty, eloquence and presentable fashion sense.

Lornadahl: Do you think you are/were treated differently because you're morena?
Apaul: Now, differently in a nice way. Living in other country where majority of people are "white", you can easily draw attention. They just like it! They will find you pretty. However, I observed that when I joined a beauty contest way back in high school, usually the winner is a mestiza. And I wonder why the judges always find mestizas prettier than morenas.

Living in South Korea: Such a knock-out beauty vs. the pale Yoo-jin (from teleseries Winter Sonata)

Lornadahl: Do you think being morena is better when you're slim? Would it also work for plus-size women?
Apaul: Not really! In fact, plus-size women having this color can make you look slim. Being tan has an innate stigma of being sexy.

Lornadahl: I know you're a beach bum, too. Do you still go for sunbathing to become darker? Are you satisfied with your color already?
Apaul: I'm very much satisfied with my color. So I just enjoy the sun, whenever, wherever. I'm not afraid of getting dark.

Lovely white kaftan!

Lornadahl: Do you confront people when they call you names (ex. baluga, kirara, etc)
Apaul: I haven’t experienced this yet. If ever, I will just ignore them.

Lornadahl: How do dark people want to be called?
Apaul: F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S!

Lornadahl: Do you also have a preferred skin tone for your romantic partner?
Apaul: Before I met my partner, I have a criteria for men. I wanted someone mysterious-looking, tall, brown-skinned and all. But now, it's changed! Regardless of the appearance, I love my partner. Loving him makes my life complete.

Who's the lucky dude, you ask?

Lornadahl: Do you still get insecure about your complexion? get intimidated when surrounded by mestizas?
Apaul: No. Never!

Lornadahl: What's your secret for that even skin tone? I'm envious!
Apaul: Honestly, there's no secret. I do body scrub 3 times a week with an ordinary bath soap and body lotion everyday.

Lornadahl: How do you deal with I'm-so-fugly/dark days?
Apaul: There are really those days! When that thing strikes, I just focus on my strengths.

Lornadahl: There are so many morenas out there who still battle with skin acceptance. What would you tell them?
Apaul: POSITIVE SELF AFFIRMATIONS, DAILY! At first, it'll feel like you're lying to yourself! I know it sounds crazy, but it works, I'm telling you from experience to be comfortable with who you are and how you look. What matters is that you are beautiful and you deserve to feel that and be happy with yourself! No need to be imprisoned by insecurity.

Who else will tell you how beautiful you are? Say it now and make it a daily habit!

All photos are from Apaul's Facebook page.

***End of Interview***

Love the Morena Skin You're In!

It is depressing that it took a white guy like Paul Morrow to diligently research on our ancient writing system and even dedicate this website for it. It is equally sad to watch videos of foreigners who teach Filipinos and other nationalities alike the complex Filipino Martial Arts. And, just like what Filipino-Canadian entertainer Mikey Bustos recounted in the video below, a number of Caucasians actually spend a fortune to look bronzed.

So why is it damn hard for us to love the skin we're in? Why does it have to take foreigners to appreciate our natural gifts?

Just like most of you, I grew up being told that white is right and brown is macho. It doesn't help either that my mother and grandmother take pride in their complexion and whatever better treatments they enjoy for such. My father, on the other hand, calls foreign seas as his home most of the time. His stage father moments involved cheering me on for my dramatic monologues and other performances. Anything but beauty contests - official or mere role-plays.

But the most damaging for any 7-year-old kid to hear was:

"Di ka kagandahan, di ka maputi, di ka payat at wala ka ring alam sa gawaing bahay. Iwasan mo na lang magka-peklat para makapag-asawa ka pa balang-araw".
[You're hardly beautiful, skinny, fair-skinned and domesticated. You might as well avoid getting skin blemishes so you'd get hitched someday,"]

That statement robbed me of a child's zest for misadventures. I never got curious about riding a bike; all I could imagine was falling from it and getting bruised. I never donned neon prints either as I imagine I would be the laughingstock in class. I even had episodes of allergies for trying various skin whitening products. Evidently, I spent the rest of my salad days in bondage and negativity. I felt sure that better days will never come to pass. For being unattached at 28, I may be proving my grandmother right.

I can't stand my appearance in all angles. There was no way I can deny my pango nose, the dark contours of my lips, my dark skin and everything else that goes with my Pinay identity.

But this self-loathing magically ended one fateful day way back in 2005. I can't pin down what exactly made me realize that brown is beautiful, but I felt it during one of my earliest domestic travels, in exposure to carefree kolehiyalas in UP-Diliman and for other factors that I may be unable to identify at this point.

Now my skin grew darker than before. But I won't trade each beach bumming and sunbathing opportunities for anything. My closet? You'd have to put on your sunglasses before you unlock it. A wide array of bright colors awaits! My skin had earned too many battle scars for the past months, too. Again, I wouldn't ask for substitution during one of those heated badminton games with friends. Most importantly, I can't wait for new adventures to try and see how it will reflect on my skin.

It felt it was high time to step out of the dark and tell the world I'm a queen in my own right, too! Mabuhay ang mga morena!

All photos by Toni Cruz.

Real Life Goddess - Leslie Ann Canlas

When I think of Women's Day, I get reminded of Sushmita Sen's winning answer to the question, "What is the essence of being a woman?" She emphasized on a woman's ability to demonstrate care for others and share herself to the world. Although I do not dismiss it as a typical beauty queen response, I find it equally important for women to take care of themselves and address the issues that prevent us from loving ourselves fully.

I am so honored to introduce a great woman who takes pride in her full figure who incidentally happens to be a beauty queen! Let's give it up for Leslie Ann Canlas!

Leslie's glorious moment.

Lornadahl: Congratulations on winning Miss Bilbiling Mandaluyong 2011! Can you tell us something about this pageant? How many years na siyang ongoing? And how come we don't have that in Bacoor, Cavite?
Leslie: Thank you. Miss Bilbiling Mandaluyong is a beauty contest for plump women. If I’m not mistaken, had been around 25 years. Why don’t you have it in Bacoor? That I cannot answer. Hahaha!

Lornadahl: Wow, 25 years! That explains why it made it to the news. How will you promote health awareness among your constituents? And will you vie for the additional award [and hopefully cash prize] at the turn-over of your title next year?
Leslie: Honestly, I don’t have any idea yet as this is my first time. Hahaha. As far as I know, Kababaihang Kakaiba ng Mandaluyong (KKM) will create a program to promote health awareness which I will be part of. I am just not sure when it’ll be discussed to us. I’ll post it on Facebook once I learn how it works. Yes. It’s for free naman. So why not?

Ms. Bilbiling Mandaluyong 2011 and Ms. Mandaluyong 2011.

Lornadahl: How did the Question & Answer portion go? What was your winning answer? Did you ask for world peace, too?
Leslie: I can say that Q&A went well for me. Hahaha! It was sad that I forgot about world peace. Hmm...I guess I was too focused on what I can contribute to fight climate change – this was the question that helped me make it to the top 5.

But my favorite is the final question for the top 5: “Kung bibigyan ka ng pagkakataong makilala ang sarili mo noong sampung taong gulang ka pa lamang, ano ang sasabihin mo sa iyong sarili?”I answered “Ang sasabihin ko sa sarili ko… Ang ganda ganda ko! Why? Because it took me 7 years to accept and embrace how my body is shaped. Kung natanggap ko lang po sana ang katawan ko and na-convince ang sarili ko na maganda ako back when I was 10 years old, eh di sana mas mahaba pa po ang time na naging masaya ako. Thank you.”

Lornadahl: You know what, I agree with you. Life had been easier if we learn to accept our body earlier in life. And I’m sure your example can inspire the goddesses in rest out there to unleash their true selves. Anyway, how did you respond to the climate change question? We could really use a lot of reminders and proposed action plan.
Leslie: The question was “Ano ang maiaambag mo sa lumalalang suliranin ng climate change?” I answered “Ang pagtatanim ng puno and to encourage other people to do the same thing. Why? As we know, ang climate change ay sanhi ng global warming at nagkakaroon ng global warming because of too much carbon dioxide sa atmosphere and the only way to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen is to plant trees at isa pa ang oxygen ang nilalanghap natin para mabuhay. Thank you.”

Lornadahl: I notice you're into funky hairstyle. I want to experiment this year and chop my long curls for something reeeeally short. But it'd make my face look bigger and zits super obvious and I'm really a wash-and-go type of girl. What hairstyle would you recommend?
Leslie: I suggest you try first to cut it ‘not so short’ like inverted bob until you’d get the courage to cut it really really short. I used to have a long straight hair but I got bored with it so I worked hard to change it up. Hahaha.

Leslie in long hair. Photo by Simoun Andres.

From long straight hair, I had a medium layered hairstyle then when I realized that I look better with a short hair, I had it cut every 2 weeks until I got my hair this short. Also, coloring or highlighting your hair is one way you can enhance your personal traits within this hairstyle.

Modelling for Ricky Reyes as seen in Love ni Mister, Love ni Misis.

Lornadahl: Love your skin, too! What's your food for your skin?
Leslie: I just follow the golden “skin” rule. Hahaha! CTM – Cleaning, Toning and Moisturizing. And drink plenty of water everyday.

Lornadahl: How would you describe your personal fashion style?
Leslie: Hmm... Chic as this style defines a powerful confident look and sharp lines that seem to come together in an effortless way like Rihanna.

Unapologetically chic!

Lornadahl: Aside from Rihanna, which celebrities serve as your style icons?
Leslie: Mary Kate Olsen.

Lornadahl: What's the best fashion accessory for big women?
Leslie: Plus size women should go for chunky, larger, bold piece of jewelry as it will make a huge difference to look. This works for me.

Big earrings is love!

Lornadahl: How do you deal with I'm-so-fat-and/or-ugly days?
Leslie: A pair of sunglasses is the key to success. Hahaha! My motto is to skip makeup in my 'ugly days'—but never leave home without sunglasses for you to still look sexy and super-stylish.

Lornadahl: Sunglasses sure work! My nose is a major problem area, though. Wala masyadong pango-friendly na shades! Dream ko pa mandin mag-aviator sunglasses. What would you recommend for me to wear instead?
Leslie: Hindi ka naman pango. But if you’re not really comfortable wearing sunglasses and don’t feel like wearing makeup, just make sure that your eyebrows are shaped as well as your eyelashes so that your eyes would look great even without a makeup. Lip balm is a must! So you’d have soft lips even without a lipstick.

Lornadahl: Would you agree that guys only chase after skinny women?
Leslie: NO! I must admit that men are initially attracted to a woman by her physical attributes but it's only after a man gets to know a woman that he will realize if he actually likes her on a deeper level. So don’t think that just because a guy doesn't fall for you right away, it doesn’t mean it can't happen eventually if you show your attractive qualities as a person.

Lornadahl: Are you modeling right now?
Leslie: Sometimes.

Lornadahl: That's nice! Have you done print ads or TV commercials?
Leslie: Haven’t done national ad campaign. But my photos were used by some photographers for their folios.

Photo by Ness Sarmiento III.


Photo by Zham Libunao.

Lornadahl: Nga pala, Artventures@Conspi do nude sketching in Conspiracy every Saturday. If you wanna pose for them, let me know. They're always on the lookout for new models.
Leslie: Nude talaga? Hahaha! Parang hindi pa ata ako ready dun. Gawin ko siguro yun pag preggy na ako.

Lornadahl: Diba? Parang kaya nga siya tinawag na privates eh. Haha! Pero may big women na who posed for them. Anyway, if you were to appear on a billboard or magazine cover, how would you look like?
Leslie: I want the cover or billboard to look FIERCE!

Lornadahl: When you say you want to appear fierce, do you mean not-so-feminine (as in flowing gowns) seductive or try-me-I’ll-kill-you androgynous?
Leslie: A little bit of androgynous but seductive. Confused? Hahaha! Just look at Naima Mora’s photos. There! That’s what I like!

Leslie likes lots of attitude!

Lornadahl: If you were to endorse a local clothing and lingerie brand for big women, what would it be and why?
Leslie: Plus Size section sa Landmark. I dunno the brand eh. Why? 'Coz it’s more affordable and stylish.

Lornadahl: I notice you're a beach bum, too. Where do you buy your swimwear? Or do you have them personalized?
Leslie: I usually buy my swimwear from Sassa (Landmark), Venus (Landmark) and Coco Cabana (SM). They got my size.

Lornadahl: Where are the top 3 best local beaches for big women to loosen up and don a bikini?
Leslie: Bolinao, Potipot and Bohol – not that crowded. I can relax, swim with my oh so fab 2 piece on. Just to share what I read from one of my friend’s blog, “Everybody is a bikini body, because no one should dictate which ones are allowed to wear one and which ones are not.”

Bo...linao!


Bo...hol!

Lornadahl: What's the secret behind your self-confidence and body acceptance?
Leslie: I get my confidence from my family and friends. They never fail to reassure me that I carry myself well. Thanks to them because they are so honest. When something does not look good on me, they tell me and when something looks good on me, they always give compliment. I owe my confidence and body acceptance to them as they made me feel comfortable with how my body is shaped.

Lornadahl: What is beautiful about being big? What is beautiful about being morena?
Leslie: Beautiful about being big and morena? One word: Everything!

Lornadahl: How do you respond to the argument that obesity is unhealthy?
Leslie: Regardless of your weight, if you don’t live a healthy life, it is still unhealthy.

Lornadahl: Is it true that big women have harder time to achieve orgasms?
Leslie: Hahahaha! Baka naman mabilis lang masyado ang partner nila. That’s all. Thank you!

Lornadahl: Given a chance, would you join reality shows like "The Biggest Loser" or "Thintervention with Jackie Warner"? Why or why not?
Leslie: Sure. If I don’t have work. So I would know how it feels like being in a reality show. Hahaha. That’s it.

Lornadahl: What do you say to people who say you’re addicted to food?
Leslie: Lahat ng sobra masama!

Lornadahl: How do you feel if people stare at you? Yell degrading stuff at you? Do you ever experience that?
Leslie: If they stare at me, I always think na they’re staring at me because they find me sexy. They won’t look at me to begin with if I don’t get their attention that only means kapansin-pansin ako. Harharhar! Love your own sabi nga. I sometimes hear some people calling me “Mataba” or ‘Dabiana”, deadma lang! I just think na it’s not about me, it’s about them. I want to believe that they just want to take out whatever issues they have on me and will be satisfied if they see me affected. I’m sorry! I won’t give that satisfaction to them. Hehehe!

Lornadahl: Do you believe that thin privilege happens?
Leslie: Some but not all of ‘em. I mean, there’s no need for that person to put it in writing when everyone knows na it’s really happening. I want to think that it’s her/his way to convince him or herself that being thin is better that any other body size. I have this feeling that the person who wrote that checklist was defeated by a plus size man/woman in a certain area that’s why he/she came up with that checklist to make bawi. I want to ask him/her “Is there nothing else to be proud about yourself other than your skinny frame?”

Lornadahl: Some of the enumerated thin privileges worked against me. Don’t you get tired of media depicting big people as super lazy and super takaw? I’ve had my share of random strangers handing me brochures promoting diet plans and appetite suppressants and the likes. And guys laugh out when I express my desire to learn pole dancing. They’re so mean!
Leslie: Nah. At the end of the day, I’m still the one dealing with myself; their opinions don’t matter to me. As long as I’m happy and feel good about myself, that’s what really matters. Your body should not define you as a person. Big just means big. That’s it!

Brochures ba kamo? Hahaha.. Yeah. Lalo sa Megamall, sa may Fitness First. Well, I just ignored the with matching irap. It’s my way of saying “Excuse me! I don’t need that! If ever mag-gi-gym ako, hindi dahil sa brochure na 'yan but because I’m already decided to do it. I can decide on my own. Thank you. “ (This is the bitchy side of me)

Anyway, about sa pole dancing, they are not mean, they're stupid because they don't know na buntis nga nakakapag-pole dancing, tayo pa kaya!

Need proof?

Lornadahl: Do you ever confront people? What happens when you do?
Leslie: Confront people? When they call me rude names? Yes, if I’m in the mood. Hahaha. I just look at them and say “Kahit ganito katawan ko hindi ko ipagpapalit ang mukha ko sayo!" Hahaha!

Lornadahl: What do fat people want to be called?
Leslie: Voluptuous or plump.

Lornadahl: I believe you've done plenty of domestic travels. 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?
Leslie: Yes. As I have said, I get my self confidence from my family and friends, which I consider as part of environment I’m accustomed to, without them I will never feel comfortable about myself.

Lornadahl: Some big girls are unaware that they're beautiful and sexy. What would you tell them?
Leslie: Love yourself! Don’t let your body or physical attributes define the real beauty. It should come from within. Always feel good about yourself and the beauty will just show without any effort. Just aim for…an effortless beauty.

"I think the quality of sexiness comes from within. It is something that is in you or it isn't and it really doesn't have much to do with breasts or thighs or the pout of your lips."

--Sophia Loren.

Lornadahl: That’s easy for you to quote Sophia Loren. You ‘re naturally gifted with breasts and all-day pout on your lips! Hahaha! Seriously, you’re very beautiful and I’m so honored you agreed to appear in my humble blog. What's next for Ms. Bilbiling Mandaluyong 2011? Bb. Pilipinas 2011, maybe?
Leslie: Wow. Thank you! How I wish. Hahaha. But given the chance, I want to be a plus size model. I am still searching online where I can audition for that here in the Philippines. I don’t think we have that here kasi unlike in the US, UK and Canada. They really have model search for plus size women. That’s my next goal.

The heavyweight winners.

***End of the Interview***