Tabla de contenidos para June 2022 en MEGA

As the old adage goes, “change is the only permanent thing in the world”. To be able to grow, one needs to step out of one’s comfort zone and take risks. This is especially true with MEGA, which had to go through a lot of changes to get to where it is today. To remain relevant after three decades is no easy feat and it takes openness and adaptability to survive. This is applicable not only in the world of publishing, but in any industry. The challenge is to recognize cultural shifts in the landscape and act swiftly. We live in a world that is constantly changing, so we have no choice but to evolve with it. For a publication like MEGA, which started 30 years ago, it is important…

1 Weaving Connections Self-taught and creative through and through, Adante Leyesa not only offers distinctively innovative handcrafted bejeweled accessories and bags, but also advocates for social entrepreneurship and partnerships with local artisans. He creates bold and outstanding pieces, revolutionizing the traditional beading, embroidery and tapestry to form his art and story. Intricate, unique, and stand-out are only some of the words we can use to describe his work. The designer’s creation is divided between one-of-a-kind personally inspired pieces and work that is custom-created through his frequent collaboration with clients. His pieces are formed using a variety of materials and elements: local weaves, wood, semi-precious stones, tiny beads, and metal chains; multi-step processes forming thoughts and feelings; discovery and craft; and story and art. Women with flair for haute couture and…

It’s Pride Month. With the LGBTQIA+ community celebrating loud and proud the sexuality, non-sexuality, and all the other beautiful parts of what one’s identity can be, it makes sense for the community to be the most welcoming and accepting space for anyone who is queer–at least, ideally, it should be. But many queer individuals could probably recall a time when they were shamed and cast out from their own communities. There are stories about transwomen and men being barred from joining support groups because they weren’t “real women or men”; non-binary people being overlooked; and, worst of all, there are some identities that are written off because they are deemed “too complicated.” This is what is called “gatekeeping,” a term used when people take it upon themselves to police the…

Taking pride in your personal appearance has long been synonymous with vanity. So this month, we’re clearing up that misconception because making an effort to look good is a form of taking pride. Remember: Vanity is superlative, pride is simply recognizing yourself. Have you ever had the urge to chop off your long locks so you could live your short-hair fantasy? Then go for it! Whilst you are at it, why not go for a beauty look that makes a statement. In Main Beauty, replace your rigid eyeliner looks with shapes that embrace a more carefree spirit. Doing what makes you happy is also key to having more confidence, which is what powerhouse moms Ina Raymundo, Aubrey Miles and Vina Morales show us in Fitness. While in Hot & Fresh…

Beauty is having a moment. We have gone through years of makeup and hair needing to look flawless, but today’s youth is bringing back the total freedom and joy that comes with expressing our identity through how we look. When it comes to hair, leave it to our up-and-coming hairstylists to shake up old beauty rules and unlock a whole new door to hairstyle possibilities. Some can make a blown-out mane look effortless, while others are experimenting with what our trusty straightening iron can create. But one thing they do have in common is that they are pushing the conversation around hair in ways both awe-inspiring and audacious. By taking what they learned from their mentors and creating their own techniques, their work is going beyond the surface of superficiality…

Being healthy is undoubtedly the new beauty currency. Over the pandemic, the wellness craze pushed for an even broader movement toward female empowerment found in working out. This extends to the moms who are taking control of their bodies and inspiring others along the way. Working out can provide the very foundations of self-care. We move to make our body and our mind feel good, to release the negative energy, and to refuel ourselves with positivity. However, with the seven-days-a-week job called motherhood, it’s close to a miracle for some moms to even find time to head to the gym. To get a few tips on balancing wellness and motherhood, we talked to mothers who reminded us that it doesn’t matter if you still have abs after giving birth or…

The next heirs of fashion are coming in geared up and fully loaded. It’s the season for all things fresh, young, and new. In this issue’s spotlight, we have Star Magic’s brightest young stars. Find out the story behind their rise to stardom and their vision for Philippine entertainment. And why, in this world where fame has become a commodity, they are still a force to be reckoned with. Let Main Fashion introduce you to minimalism’s revamped definition, and walk you through the College of Saint Benilde’s Graduation Show 2022 lookbook. The best street styles are also in, featuring the boldest hues in fine suit sets. With a stellar fashion generation ready to take its place, here’s one thing for sure: you wouldn’t want to miss any of this.…

Growth. Learning. Excellence. These are the words Belle Mariano uses the most to bring to life the story of her nine-year journey in show business. Simultaneously getting her make-up done while conveying her thoughts, she never drifts away or loses track—much like she is in her career. At a tender age of nine, the He’s Into Her star was already keen on the direction she wanted to take in life. Offering more clarity to her juvenile influences, she recounts her love for performing: “Ever since I was young, I really wanted to entertain people. I was the type of kid who stood in front of family during reunions and just performed and sang my heart out.” Since then, Belle has pressed on and never looked back. Starting as a commercial…

Jayda Avanzado’s arrival brought a zing that immediately filled the entire room. You wouldn’t be able to take your eyes off of her. Her energy was captivating. Sinking into her thoughts was even more enthralling. The 18-year old singer displayed a tension of opposing forces that had the inevitable tendency to cue inspiration. Confident yet humble. Upbeat but not overbearing. Pragmatic but ever so hopeful. Jayda is not just a songwriter. She’s a storyteller who has a way with words that hooks and makes you really listen. And you can only figure that’s possible because her craft is rooted in such a deep standpoint. This is her story—so far. This is the tale of how Jayda bravely answers the “whats,” “whys,” and “hows” as she navigates this dog-eat-dog world. Starting…

One Wednesday morning, in the middle of a rainy Pasay City, a group of at least 40 people (we followed health and safety protocols, FYI) scurry around from one big hotel ballroom to the next, all focused on making this photo shoot a success. Success is indeed the right word to use because when you put six of the future A-listers in one frame, it’s a lot of work. Case in point: It took almost an hour for the team to get this one group photo right—that’s one in more than 10 concepts. We’re lucky our subjects for today’s shoot are such professionals, it’s evident they’ve prepared for this their whole young lives. When Belle, Andrea, Francine, Alexa, Jayda, and Charlie arrived—at different times during the day—the room turned gleeful.…

It seems fashion is finally overthrowing the mini-bag domination—a trend that Jacquemus’ diminutive Le Chiquito sparked in 2018—and offering oversized holdalls as a successor. Micro bags have long reigned supreme, but as we enter a new season, we’re asking ourselves if it’s time we swap out the minis for the maxis. It seems all the major brands are on board with this, too, as the Spring/Summer runways were bursting with Big Bag Energy. In New York, Peter Do showcased crescent-shaped cross-bodies that would fit everything else in between work and play. Over in Milan, the Fendace saw Donatella Versace and Kim Jones debut maximalist shoppers swathed in leopard print, faux fur accents, and Fendi’s Zucca monogram. Finally, in Paris, oversized top-flap shoulder bags hit it big time at Demna Gvasalia’s…

Iced blue, dragon fruit, banana, snow, and black—these bursts of colors come round with bubble-like curves and the iconic monogram in Louis Vuitton’s Bubblegram bag collection. Is your hue Over The Moon, Papillon, Alma, or Wallet on Strap? Crafted in Louis Vuitton ateliers using brand new design techniques, specific to each model, the Bubblegram bags are supple and soft to the touch, with a bouncy, cloud-like effect, much like its namesake. The shiny calfskin leather on each bag is embroidered with the maison’s monogram, giving it the original quilted look. Only the skill of Louis Vuitton’s artisans could pull off this play in depth. Did you know that more than 15,000 stitches are needed to embroider the Alma Bubblegram bag? Each model is hand-finished to ensure the utmost precision when…

1 CROWD FAVORITE Beauty vloggers can give some of the best makeup advice since they spend hours reviewing and testing products. Naturally, whenever a vlogger comes out with a beauty line, there can be pressure. But one local YouTuber who met those high expectations is Mae Layug of GRWM COSMETICS. Her makeup brand, which stands for “Get Ready With Me,” is specifically made to cater to Filipina beauty. With 12 shade options to choose from, their Radiance Tint Concealer (P348) covers complexions and undertones across the spectrum. The first product they launched, the Multi-Use Creamy Tint (P249), which can be used on the cheeks, eyes, and lips, also remains their best seller. Highly pigmented and blendable, these matte-finish tints easily serve up a whole makeup look. GRWM Cosmetics is available…

How did you overcome the initial challenges of entering the industry? JO: One of the challenges that I faced when I first entered the industry is people not believing in my capabilities just because I’m new and just starting my career. To overcome this, I just continued doing what I love and growing as a hairstylist to prove to them that I am more than what they think I am. CR: I’m a very shy person. I’m not much of a talker especially when I’m in a crowd of strangers. So, I had to overcome my anxiety so I can work and communicate with a team of creatives to make the look the best it could be. I also surround myself with people that I vibe with and that helps…

Guillano Mariano Valenzuela, or Guilly, has always been an artist. In his teenage years, he was known as the painter in his batch, so much so that he remembers being excused from classes to join painting competitions. Little did he know, this talent would lead him to a different career: that of a makeup artist. Makeup was a passion he discovered in college, when her transgender woman cousin named Alexis asked Guilly to put makeup on her and imitate the style of gay beauty queens. While Guilly didn’t take the job seriously at the time, an unusual moment changed his life. Sometime in 2008, Guilly chanced upon a MEGA magazine issue with Georgina and Jessica Wilson on the cover. “I was really amazed by how they really look beautiful and…

This is no ordinary feat nor is it a mere celebration meant to only recognize existence. It carries more profoundness than just that. The commemoration is meant to honor the thousands of lives, billions of minutes, and immeasurable efforts that were dedicated to shaping the Star Magic of today. During this momentous milestone, the entertainment behemoth puts their people in the limelight. And mind you, this is no unique gesture. Instead, it’s only standard practice for Star Magic. For three decades now, the agency has continually put their biggest assets at the forefront: their people. “Of all the agencies available in the Philippines, why did you choose to join this one?” More often than not, those who were asked this question had answers that carry a central theme: care and…

Think about this: what drives you? For most, it is pure passion. Sometimes, it is tangible matters—possessions, wealth, and all things that scream opulence. No harm in that. But for Francine, it’s fear of claiming such grand dreams. Fear is a tool. And this 18-year-old star is well-versed in utilizing it to reach her zenith. Delving into her unconventional method of motivating herself, she shares, “Gusto ko po tinatakot ako ng pangarap ko para mas ma-challenge ako. Kasi kung hindi ako natatakot ng pangarap ko, masyadong maliit ’yon.” A force to be reckoned with, she cannot be impeded by fear, colossal responsibilities, nor a potential love in the future. She’s in it to win it. Despite achieving stardom already, the multi-talented artist is not immune to life’s blows. C’est la…

When Charlie Dizon welcomed me into her space, I immediately felt a connection. She was that affable. Like a stream, our conversation flowed freely. Her quips and sense of humor were enough to reel me in, but what truly hooked me was the unconventional narrative of her successful, colorful career. You’ll meet a lot of people along the way who are what you would dub as, “sigurista.” The type who would only engage when they’re 101% sure that the outcome they desire will come to fruition. In contrast, there are people like Charlie: the quintessential go-getters. And more often than not, the world favors the latter. The world rewards intrepid people for stepping out of their little squares equipped only with faith. Charlie’s story is exactly like that. It brims…

It’s no surprise that coffee is often paired with a long list of sweet delectables. There is even a science to how caffeine responds to sweetness. To a coffee connoisseur, however, your daily brew can be paired deliciously even with a savory dish. To bring together this celebration of taste, Nespresso collaborated with chef and restaurateur at Helm, Josh Boutwood, to create two dishes that seamlessly go well with the limited edition Master Origins Aged Sumatra and Papua New Guinea. ALL IN THE ROAST Robust and with a wonderful woody aroma, the Master Origins Aged Sumatra has a unique combination of body, depth, and flavor. The internationally-known chef paired it with a slow-cooked tender serving of short rib, cacao, and cauliflower. “We want it to be a little bit more…

Is there really no other way but up? Halfway through the year, things escalated faster than expected—and we are in no position to stop. This issue, we celebrate Filipinos with pivotal roles as innovators, leaders, and pioneers in fashion and style. Centered on social entrepreneurship, conscious production, and impactful advocacies, the space for new artists continues to expand and elevate in the local scene. But perhaps more than trying to reach for greater heights, we could instead dig deeper into our culture and stories to uncover a better understanding of our passion, identity, and purpose as creators of today.…

With places to go, people to see, and outfits to try, the outlook for the exuberant spring/ summer collections—where a plethora of positive and adventurous clothes get the spotlight—take a bigger and bolder turn. From maximum brights to body accentuating cuts, patterns, and textures, this season’s take on fantastical fashion is here to stay. BETWEEN THE LINES The staple stripes get reimagined with more variations than ever: color, width, and direction COLOR ME FREE If you’re not one for neutral hues, go bold and bright—there’s a whole spectrum to choose from MINI SKIRT SUITS Suits made for the heat? Let the minis do the talking MODERN GODDESS Sheer is here and skin is in, redefining sensuality through confidence in all forms TWISTED TRENCHES An ode to trenches and its infinite…

With all the noise and mania that currently surround the country, the anxiety we feel because we have to live through constant uncertainty looms large. So, having a peaceful space away from all the chaos is a powerful thing. Most of the time, safe spaces pertain to a physical form, which we talk about in Home, where acclaimed designers teach us how to make our house, or even just one room in it, a sanctuary. While in Feature Story, discover the latest co-working space that is redefining productivity and catering to the unique needs of workers today. Safe spaces can also be as simple as a community where a group of people hold similar values and commit to consistently provide each other with a supportive, respectful environment. This is specifically…

Over the pandemic, we all tried a few home trends that may not look quite as fresh now as they once did, or perhaps we’ve accumulated unnecessary interior décor items that are now cluttering up our space. First, it was organizing the kitchen cupboards, then it was the bookshelves. Before we knew it, everything slowly turned into an obsession: decking out the home office with LED lights, several screens, and tech accessories, or filling the balcony with several overgrown plants and big pots. As we go through life, our home essentials are constantly changing. If you’re looking around your space and start feeling like you are no longer satisfied or inspired by it, it’s a sign to streamline your home. With the warm weather inviting us to tie back the…

Upon first look at the late start collaboration between La Prairie and Carla Chan titled Fading Space of Dawn, viewers are immediately mesmerized by the image of an ethereal light that glows around the Swiss Alps. But as time passes, viewers soon realize that the artwork isn’t simply about a beautiful golden hour. By blending physical and digital materials, Chan created a hybrid and immersive virtual landscape that allows viewers to see the Swiss Alps, from dusk until dawn, in real time. “I focused on the moment when nature disappears into the darkness and vanishes into the unseen,” Chan shares in our exclusive interview. “Using digital media, I created a space to reflect on nature and its future.” This second artistic partnership also coincides with the re-imagining of the brand’s…

HYDRATION NATION “The very first skincare product that SUNNIES FACE launched is the Dream Cream (P795). Packed with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides, this hybrid serum-gel cream acts like a big drink of water for the skin. Its vegan formula delivers sheer, non-greasy hydration that won’t clog your pores, and since it’s buildable, you can use it as a moisturizer, a primer, or as an overnight mask, and you’ll wake up glowing the next day.” PEEWEE REYES-ISIDRO, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF TROPICAL BUILT “My everyday morning routine always includes LUMINISCE’s Sunshade (P1380). This sunscreen doesn’t only provide protection from harmful UV rays, but its multipurpose formula also hydrates and leaves a glowing finish. It has additional ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide that strengthens the skin barrier and improves skin texture, and Japanese…

FREE FLOW A tool of the trade when it comes to graphic makeup is water-activated liners. They work best when it comes to painting on bold, opaque shapes and achieving symmetry Jeweled necklace by EDIT UNDERSTATEMENT A colored underliner is a captivating finishing detail that can give your eyes extra depth and mystery Crystal embellished hoop earrings by EDIT CUTTING EDGE Simple enough to try out but dramatic enough to stand out, a negative-space cat-eye is a great way to modernize your everyday look Gold hoop earrings by EDIT RED ARCHERS Aside from drawing on your lash line, ramp up the drama by adding a half-line on your lid. Start from the inner corners to really accentuate your eye shape Silver plated earrings by EDIT YELLOW POP Graphic eyeliners aren’t…

Unfiltered. Unadulterated. Genuine. These are the most fitting adjectives to represent Andrea Brillantes’ disposition during our short dialogue. Although said in a soft voice, her replies were wrapped in her tenacious spirit that was palpable. It was a rare treat indeed; it’s not often that you come across a public figure who listens intently, digs deep, and gives an answer in its rawest form. Each of her responses heralded authenticity. And I know it to be true because when she relayed her struggles, I felt her pain. When she offered me a slice of her dreams, I sensed a bona fide desire to simply live life happily. When she spoke, there was basis and truth—there was a silent demand to not just listen, but also to truly understand her point…

Alexa Ilacad is in it for the long run. She’s determined to stay the course and ready to strike while the iron’s hot. Talking to her proved just this. Each question thrown came back with a dignified response filled with sensible pride and a burning passion. Young and packed with wisdom at merely 22 years old, she’s already part of a crowd that’s touted to embody Star Magic’s future. Wondering how she was bestowed with such an arduous yet glorious responsibility? By realizing that life is no race. “I don’t really ask God, ‘Why them?’ I ask, ‘When me?’ So it made me realize that life is not a race and we all have different timelines in achieving our dreams or getting God’s promises for you,” she tells me. “So,…

STYLE TIP Unsure about brights? To start with, ease into the color-way by making use of bold colored accessories, like a bag or shoes, then make your way up the spectrum one key piece at a time. The trick here is to have fun!…