Joey Panlilio: It takes a long time to grow young

As he guides the visitor through the Museo De La Salle which depicts the home lifestyle of Filipino ilustrados during the Spanish era, Joe Rico gracefully shares details of how the furniture collection came mostly from his Panlilio family and Brother Andrew Gonzalez’ ancestors. Each curtain and chair in this showcase house in Dasmarinas, Cavite has a story behind it. Thanks to the energy, flair and meticulous attention to detail and historical accuracy of Joe Rico, this grand museo was conceived and built to serve as a reminder of a period in Philippine history.

Philippine STAR: Which living person do you admire most?

Joey Panlilio: Dead or living, I still admire Mother Teresa for her pure intentions. She is a complete antithesis of who I am.

Who or what is the greatest love of your life?

The pursuit of perfection in anything I do.

What sports do you like most?

Mostly mental exercises. I love to read. My best friends would be the printed word.

What book influenced your life?

The Voices of Silence by Andre Malraux is one of my favorites. It’s about how inanimate objects like paintings and sculptures can affect us. I love books on the fine arts, philosophy and decoration.

If you could change one thing in your life, what would that be?

I would love to have more time to travel. Visiting places gives me a chance to reinvent myself.

What is your greatest fear?

Something totally unexpected happening.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

Over-perfectionism. Sense of worrying that things might not be right in my world.

How do you start your day?

Lingering in bed, meditating on what is the meaning of life.

What is your motto?

It takes a long time to grow young.

What is your current state of mind?

Humorous. I always want to be happy.

If you were to die, who or what would you like to come back as?

An elegant creation.

What do you most value in your friends?

Urbanity. To be urbane is to be intelligent, witty, very secure, polished.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Obtaining anything my eyes fancy.

What words or phrases do you overuse?

Madly chic. Elegant.

What is the first thing you look at when you see a man?

His expression of total shock at seeing me.

Name a moment that brings back happy memories.

The whole stretch of the 1970s when I was in grade school and high school, La Salle.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

True peace of mind. Feeling that everything is okay.

Which living person do you most identify with?

There is only one Joey Panlilio. I am an original.

Which famous quotation would you have wanted to be the author of?

So many... in a field of poppies. "Exaggeration is the only reality." "Tell so-and-so I died for her sins." "One has to arrange to be born in Paris."

What is your favorite journey?

Once in a while, I go on a sentimental journey. It’s nice to look back. Reflect.

What sound do you love?

Silence.