Young society makes the cut

MANILA, Philippines - At the launch of Lifestyle Asia’s latest tome on society’s finest at Salon de Ning, Manila’s most fashionable and most charitable came to celebrate the book’s debut. Lifestyle Asia editor in chief Anna Sobrepeña sat down with YStyle to talk about the folks who made the cut.

YSTYLE: What’s the concept behind the book?

ANNA SOBREPEñA: Lifestyle Asia’s tagline is “living at its finest,” which finds expression in the articles on lives adhering to values of the highest order. This adherence to what is universally accepted as excellent has distinguished the stories in our monthly volume. Over the last few years, Lifestyle Asia has featured men and women who inspire with their generosity, integrity, passion, compassion, creativity and authentic goodness. It was not always easy to get them to agree to a feature. Many preferred to be under the radar and understandably so because true goodness doesn’t look for applause. Some of them have never appeared in any other magazine. This was our way of honoring them.

We can never have enough of good news and some of the best kind comes together in the Lifestyle Asia Platinum Circle. There are no perfect lives but we catch something from them that hopefully inspires and causes us to believe, to do something similar or to support.

Who are the people who made the cut and why? Just give us a few examples.

The people we have selected embody an elegance of spirit that separates the rich from the truly rich. It conveys an excellence that, while intangible, manifests in different aspects of their lives.

Rica Davila, chairman of Lapanday. Hers is a spirit-stirring story of negotiating through adversity without fanfare. Despite an incurable, sometimes painful medical condition, she has chosen to channel her energies productively instead of bewailing her lot. The capacity to accept what comes her way was born of a fortitude that elected not to dwell on the discomfort, limitations and feelings of aloneness.  It enabled her to take on the responsibility of steering the family enterprise when circumstances thrust her unexpectedly into the position. She has successfully managed to grow the business bigger than it was when she assumed (control), despite having no business background.

George Ty, group chairman, Metrobank Group of Properties. Dr. Ty believes in sharing the benefits of the business conglomerate’s success with the community and has institutionalized this in what is reputedly the largest philanthropic organization in the country, The Metrobank Foundation. The long-running programs that recognize the best in the fields of education, art and law enforcement reflect his life philosophy which espouses excellence in all endeavors.

Rosanna Fores, CEO, Hijo Resources Corporation. Rosanna Tuason Fores was drawn to developing a community in Davao that would establish and enshrine the dignity of the Filipino people through decent living conditions and self-respecting occupations which would allow them to be self sustaining. Her active life in Manila as a public servant notwithstanding, she passionately pursues the vision of spurring Mindanao into realizing its potential and contributing to the growth of the country.

What defines Philippine society today? How has it changed in the past few years?

Much has been said about the deterioration of social and moral conditions but it is in the deepest darkness that light shines greater. Doing good never really went out of style and an increasing number are embracing it as a way of life. People want to help and holding up authentic efforts in that direction encourages others likewise.

Technology, globalization and travel have expanded horizons and opportunities. Hopefully, it contributes to a less parochial perspective and a realization that we all affect each other. It is in our best interests to enable each other to realize our potentials and work for the common good.

I noticed that there were quite a few young folks in the book. What makes them stand out at such a young age?

The choice for the young men and women was hinged on reasonable grounds for expecting future excellence. One or the other showed a sense of purpose and direction, strength of character, some measure of selflessness, confidence, honesty which were conveyed in an expressed goal or involvement in an environment, charity or civic program, organization or volunteer work. I am personally pleased that some of them are defining themselves at a younger age. Where others may think they are too young, we have those such as Paolo Delgado and Alex Eduque who are applying ideas, energies and idealism with enthusiasm and deliberateness.

The Dizons seem to be a particular favorite. Are you particular fans of their work? Are they celebrated alumni of Lifestyle Asia?

I first met them when doing a story for a different publication and have since acquired pieces for my personal collection. We featured them on the cover of Lifestyle Asia four years ago when they celebrated an anniversary. That they have spanned three generations in the business speaks of the quality of their work. The Dizon women design jewelry that is premium, exceptional and unique. These are the same qualities of the Lifestyle Asia Platinum Circle.

It was so named because “platinum” conveys the premium that they are and “circle” because this is an archetypal symbol of an inclusiveness of the universe. The nature of the excellence of our selected persons makes this circle inclusive rather than excluding because generosity enjoins and hopefully extends beyond one’s reach.

What should people expect from the upcoming issues of Lifestyle Asia? Anything exciting?

I have an amazing team that aspires for excellence in every issue. That has become the standard and I tell them to compete only with our last issue so, yes, there are fresh takes on our monthly themes. The travel issue should have a few surprises. The luxury issue brings something new to the table and the June issue could be our best living issue yet. We have redesigned some pages, added new sections and are collaborating with likeminded persons/companies/groups, which should give our readers a takeaway that adds up to more than just a leisure read.

Next year will be our 25th anniversary and preparations are being made to mark it in a memorable way.