Women of Creative Force advocate Social Change in their Personal Pursuits

Around the latter part of 2012, there used to be this Andy Warhol exhibit at the Hong Kong Museum of Art called “15 Minutes Eternal.” You’d enter through an escalator, which would be surrounded by a colorful awning showcasing some of Warhol’s well-known pieces. Once you get to the lobby, you have the option to get your picture taken, which would be displayed on-screen for a short amount of time before disappearing. The whole thing, of course, was a nod to his famous quote: “In the future, everybody in the world will be world-famous for 15 minutes.”

While we’re no longer sure whether Warhol had actually said that, it’s a statement that seems to resonate in today’s world. Life has gotten more convenient, but less meaningful. We are a people on auto-pilot, our minds often shooting out to other places or concerns every so often.

It’s not hard, then, to see why we often obsess about the concept of making an impact – we do not want to be a mere fleeting presence, a mere 15 minutes. After all, why be a brief face on a screen when you could be a Warhol?

But what does it mean to make an impact? And how do you create it? While there may not be a definitive answer to this, we’ve had a fair share of people who have defined it through their own means, by their own terms. And we’re fortunate to be living in their midst, rising stars who might well be immortalized far beyond 15 minutes. They, after all, are not in it for the fame. They go beyond the conventional boundaries of success, looking to do things according to what they believe in. They create impact because they transcend.

That said, here’s to the four ladies who continue to push boundaries. May their stories give us the courage to craft our own.

Words by Pam Musni and Photography by Kimberly dela Cruz & Jilson Tiu

AC Lalata

@aclalata

When asked what she loves most about working in a dance studio, AC Lalata is quick to note that she doesn't have one yet, but would love to have one. For her, a dance studio is what many dancers call home. "It is just one of the many tools that can help you [become] a better dancer. You create new stuff, make mistakes, and improve," she says.

And with a slate of projects this year, it's something that resonates now more than ever. A member of the critically-acclaimed Philippine All-Stars dance crew, she's currently working to bring Europe's biggest dance competition to the Philippines along with her partner and team, as well as doing a dance video project for an international online booking company.

That said, it's interesting to think then that prior to pursuing dance, AC had studied hair and makeup for almost two years, earning a diploma. She also worked as an account manager for three years at a multinational company. "Within those years, I juggled my corporate and dance life. It was really hard for me physically because I had to wake up early every day. And after work, I traveled for almost two hours [to get] to my dance training [before going] home late at night," she recalls.

The grind eventually took a toll on her, to the point that she was no longer happy with her work. "Everyday, my zombie mode went on for minutes. [Then the] minutes turned into hours, hours to days, days to weeks, then months. It was turned off only when I was on my way to dance [training]."

Eventually, AC left her job, as she began to feel the emptiness within her. "Family and dance were the things that made me happy then," she shares. For her, dancing gives her the freedom to express herself more artistically, as well as to learn and improve character.

But more importantly, for AC, it's a medium to help and inspire other aspiring dancers out there, as well as a way to delve into her advocacies and help make an impact. "In the dance community, we can keep making dance events, workshops, [and] concerts... just to bring people together, and to express ourselves and inspire each other [to] be better not [only] in dance, but in all aspects of life," she says. So aside from her other projects, she's out conducting dance workshops for the less fortunate, as well as feeding programs. "I use dance as a medium for [almost] all of my projects," she says. "For me, dance is a universal language that is very relatable to all people with different backgrounds."

But while it might seem a little overwhelming to balance all these projects – especially for those looking to break out into similar industries – AC noted that in the end, it's all about being yourself. "If you love what you're doing, just go for it. Don't let other people tell you what to do... you can only know and understand yourself better when you make that jump. It'll all be worth it," she explained.

Bea Constantino

@beaconstantino

The bustling hub of Poblacion is a treasure trove of sorts, with hole-in-the-wall establishments becoming of bonafide adventurers. It's the exact kind of spot that keeps one inspired, something that mixes the everyday and mundane with a new kind of gritty upon consequent explorations. Case in point is Alamat, a restaurant that puts focus on "Pinoy rebels with a cause," as per fashion stylist Bea Constantino. "[And] they serve my favorite Tausug dish done right, called Piyanggang or chicken in roasted coconut stew," she says.

Inspiration, after all, is key to her line of work. Being in the industry for 14 years, Bea has styled for the likes of Solenn Heusaff, Kim Jones, and Paris Hilton, all of which requires an understanding of their personality and what suits them. "I always think being given the opportunity to style someone is an opportunity to learn from your client or muse," she says. "The women I've worked with [are] quite the force when it comes to their respective fields... I feel like I learn more from them than they do from me as to what the latest trends are."

But it wasn't always like this. Prior to being a stylist, Bea was a full-time dancer, having gone to New York to study the craft. Coming home was another story. "I was kind of lost when I got back from New York – I always knew I wanted to be in the creative field, in my home, helping something. All that time, I had no clue what to do with my life," she says.

Eventually, through a contact in the publishing industry, she was able to secure a role as a fashion assistant. The rest was history. "I was in dire need of a job, anything at all, and so I stayed and ended up falling in love with this job," she notes. "I've always believed that all the small pieces of our life's small or big events will eventually form a bigger picture, and I feel like the pieces are coming together today... the fact that I can talk about living out my vision is just insane."

And she truly is living it out, if her current projects are any indication. "I'm currently working on a few advertising projects right now; each ad presents a different challenge," says Bea. And what keeps her inspired? "I'm usually inspired by projects that inspire dialogue – either a TV commercial I'm working on, or my clothing line, which I started last year," she says.

Nowadays, she's tapping into her Mindanaoan roots, being a "staunch supporter and advocate" of anything from the region. "My family comes from Zamboanga City and Sulu, and this has led me to this newfound path of providing, in my own way, a small voice to showcase my hometown's amazing culture and heritage by way of something I know well - fashion and textile," she notes.

Such is the case with her brand, Herman & Co., which features Tausug textiles. And for Bea, styling is an exchange of energy, or a way to help transform another person. "[So] why not use that voice to at least have conversations about becoming more awake and aware?" she says. "[Instead] of slapping on denim jeans on a client, why not go for sustainable denim? I'm not coming from a 'save the world' place, but [it's] basically [all about] injecting some substance and intention into what you do."

But in order to do this, you have to know what you are looking to achieve. It's something Bea knows well, and something she'd advise those looking to enter similar fields. "Get clarity on your intentions. What do you want to impart? What will your legacy be? How did you contribute to making something better?" she shares. "Once you've gotten a clearer perspective, reach out to people you admire and ask if you can apprentice, or work for them even. Always trust your journey."

Elena Ortega

@ortegaelena

Makati Cinema Square is a place that verges on being an underground darling and a historical artifact. On one hand, the mall hosts some old gems from the 80's, such as Emer's Food Center. On the other, it's become the haven for cool antiques and galleries, which have begun to gain popularity. It's no wonder that it's drawn a number of creative types – types such as Elena Ortega, model and photographer.

Perhaps you've seen her on Instagram, or through her other projects. After all, she's collaborated with brands and publications alike, such as the B/Blog and Commonwealth. Having begun her modeling career back in college, she's been on a roll ever since. And although her photography career had started off only last year, she's been featured by The MISSBISH Photography Workshop – an editorial platform that focuses on female-driven content – for her work.

But while it may be tempting to merely reduce such work to an aesthetic standpoint, Elena thinks otherwise. "To a certain degree, yes, modeling and photography are fields for aesthetic purposes," she says. "But you can definitely use these fields for social change as well."

For instance, she cites the Red Charity Gala – which she had been part of a few years back – an annual fashion event that highlights designs from Filipino designers and is meant to raise funds for the Philippine Red Cross. As for photography, she notes how it is a "big tool in social change," being instrumental to ads and campaigns for social affairs as well as bringing light to other issues, such as war, calamities, and more.

Elena herself has worked on a few photo series, some of which can be found on her website. And she's looking to do some more – perhaps on topics she keeps to heard like the younger generation. She particularly feels strongly about how social media and bad influences have affected behavior and way of thinking, along with the pressure brought upon young models in the industry.

With her experience in the two fields, she's got the chops to make it happen. She begun her modeling career after a batch-mate approached her during freshman orientation and asked if she wanted to model. Although shy, she eventually said yes, hoping to gain more confidence in herself. "I went with her to a casting and met her agent, and it started there. Man, I had so much fun," she recounts.

Photography, on the other hand, was something she'd always been interested in, having gone into it a few years after modeling. It was, however, only a little more than a year ago that she started to take it seriously. For her, the two elements go hand-in-hand. "Modeling has definitely helped me frame my subjects better... I know sometimes it's not easy for models to find their best angle, so I will adjust and be the one to move around instead," she answered when asked if her work in one field influences the other.

Currently, however, she's taking the time to develop herself after an eye-opening past year. "In the past, I was one to get easily swayed by my companions, and sometimes these companions weren't the best examples," she notes.

After all, for Elena, in order to use your talents for social good, you need to figure out what you believe in and what you need to do about it. And it's something that doesn't happen overnight. "It's a process, I know," she says. "As long as you keep exploring and following your passions, then you'll be alright."

Jess Connelly

@jessconnelly

Jess Connelly thrives on creating music. Or anything related to it, be it her own share of tracks or their accompanying music videos. It is something that's been in her for as long as she could remember. She started writing at the age of 13, which was around the same time her mother had brought her to her first studio session. The singing came much earlier. "Music is the only thing I was ever I was ever good at, to be honest," she says.

Nowadays, you'll find Jess on various features and campaigns for her contributions to the music industry, as well as a slew of gigs. It seems like a long run from the kid who idolized Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and N*SYNC, but Jess notes how parts of those still endure in her current practice, especially her teen self's tastes. "In my teens, I gravitated more towards all forms of urban music. That style resonated with me the most and influences my sound until now," she says.

Getting to that point wasn't easy, however. Jess notes how she was always told that what she did wasn't possible, and that the only way to make a living off music was to join showbiz. While she did dabble into showbiz for a while, she realized it wasn't for her, and wanted to get into performing and music instead. "My best friend knew of a band who needed a new frontwoman, [so] I jumped straight into writing and gigging with them," she notes, when talking about her origins as a musician. "I gained a lot of experience through that, but my heart wasn't in the music. I [then] met producers through my friends within the scene, and started making and performing my own music."

With this experience, Jess is looking to change the mentality when it comes to succeeding in the music industry, as well as how others view artistry in the Philippines. "You don't need a co-sign from a TV network, or sell out to make a living. Quantity does not equal quality," she notes. Instead of content, for instance, she's noticed that in the Philippines others would rather chase social media numbers or 'virality.' "I want to influence people to do their own thing and go for it – not just in regards to music, but whatever you're passionate about. If I settled on all the people who told me 'no,' I wouldn't be where I am right now."

And it's this sentiment that shines with her upcoming project, the JCON mixtape, which will have about 10 tracks on it. Being Jess' first full-length project, it's looking to represent who she is as an artist. "The first songs I released were received well, but I feel like they barely represent who I really am," she says. "JCON is what my friends call me, and I want my listeners to get to know me better."

But while it also serves as a showcase of how she's developed over the course of her music career, it's also a testament to what keeps her up on her game – sticking to her guns. "I'm 100% independent, and my music has reached places and people beyond here, purely because I am consistent in what I believe in," says Jess. "I want the youth to know they have choices and don't have to stick to what they're told. If that means using my music to get that point across, I'm all for it."

On Progress and Taking a Step towards our Passions

Progress is an arbitrary concept. In its simplest form, it means ‘an onward movement’ or ‘to move forward’. Unfortunately, a lot of people feel stuck in a rut because they think that progress is always limited to something grand, like a promotion at work or hitting a big life goal. Either that or they fall in a trail of self-doubt with every nudge towards progress, especially in a generation where likes have become the seal of approval and comparing oneself to others just seems a little to inevitable.

It’s important to remember that progress is a personal love affair and includes every small step we take, whether it is our constant pursuit for new experiences or an attempt at the things that we are interested in or passionate about – and this is the exact message that Johnnie Walker wants to convey in its latest initiative. With the JohnnieWeekend Creators Lab series, Johnnie Walker is leading the way in inspiring this new generation to keep walking by providing new experiences and venues where like-minded people can come together and grow their passions and craft. Comprised of creative workshops and community events, the JohnnieWeekend Creators Lab series is done in collaboration with trailblazers who have made their marks in their respective fields, and who will inspire others to do so.

For the first installment of the series, Johnnie Walker teamed up with Marvin Conanan and Deej Fabian to shine the light on local photography and music. These two esteemed artists have contributed greatly to the elevation of the local creative culture to a global scale. Through his establishment of PURVEYR, an online magazine, Marvin has created a tangible outlet where Philippine creatives are recognized and revered. Deej, on the other hand, sheds light on Filipino musicians through his film work, having partnered with artists from the Logiclub collective and more.

For the first part of the MarvinxDeej collaboration, up-and-coming photographers were invited for an audio-visual exercise, where they were given a playlist to listen to and translate into visuals. Marvin and Deej put together a short playlist of local music by Asch, She's Only Sixteen and crwn for the photographers to listen to and immerse with while walking around Poblacion for an afternoon photowalk. This exercise, while fairly unfamiliar to the participants and their more traditional methods of craft, was able to tap into their psyche of inspiration and incite a new experience.

Part two was a culminating exhibit at Dulo MNL to showcase the works of 6 featured photographers - Alyssa Uy, Ryan Tionloc, Aly Mananquil, Renzo Navarro, Jilson Tiu, Poj Gearlan, as well as the other talented artists who participated in the creative audio-visual exercise. The exhibit served as a stepping stone for these artists to move forward with their passions, and at the same time, served as a venue for the community to come together and get inspiration from the creative diversity that transpired during the party.

By providing outlets for uninhibited self-expression and symbiotic relation, #JohnnieWeekend is able to present progress in a new light – one that is devoid of pretense and competition, where individuals can coexist at their own pace, whether it’s two steps forward or back.  Whether you’re a budding musician or a photographer with a veteran eye, Johnnie Walker believes that sharing your talents and passion can draw a bigger picture of inspiring others to do the same. But here, it’s not about figures or garnering Instagram hearts, it’s about inspiring each other and creating a sense of community and collaboration that fosters personal growth.

From food to film, music to sports – Johnnie Walker will continue to collaborate with local trailblazers from different fields. A new installment for the Johnnie Weekend Creators Lab series will be introduced every month, where anyone can come together, share their passions and thoughts over a glass of Johnnie Walker. To know more about Johnnie Weekend, you can check out the JohnnieWalkerPH page on Facebook for more details.

Mark Redito shares his lifelong pursuit of Sound and making people Dance

The beginnings of a melody echoed its way onto the wee hours of the morning. Louder and louder it grew, booming defiantly in the silence that followed. The plight of the drums, the sound of it. The houses next door groaned under its weight, finding the beginnings of a melody as mere noise. But the little drummer boy carried on, the drums and his heartbeat synchronized in its beating. 

Then, the little drummer boy delved further into musical pursuits. His years in school became a rhythmic blur, the band scene becoming his oyster. It was punk one day, and indie the next. He birthed another musical persona in the form of CocoLulu. Then out came Spazzkid. But these days, he is known by way of Mark Redito.

Illustration by Bryan Sochayseng

How he got here was a journey to self-discovery. It was one he traversed and explored out of curiosity. The decision to peruse the electronic music scene was hinged on realization, “A band set-up wasn’t an ideal fit for me because I had strong opinions and it takes a special person to really work with me on such a set-up. That actually pushed me to explore. How would it look like if I made music by myself?  That’s when I began learning software, recording myself, and I enjoyed it”. He was then inducted into Manila’s night life, far from being a fixture but gaining momentum all the same. 

"Maybe I can make this work? Maybe I can pursue this! How about I give myself a year or two to see where it goes." This was his train of thought circa ’06-’07. This was a man on a mission. This was someone who had a certain pursuit in mind; he was determined to find his true musical form. The search led him to hone his craft and study the discipline Stateside. Mark finished the program with a much affirmed stance. He knew it then, and more so now. Music was something his heart beats for. 

Spazzkid made his rounds on the World Wide Web, releasing tracks via SoundCloud. Canadian producer, Ryan Hemsworth, took notice and the next thing he knew, he was performing his first live show in L.A. Then, came the gigs he was booked for night after night. His track list expanded and so did his fanbase. He found himself touring in different cities, first in the U.S. and then in Asia. He looks back at where life has taken him with much fondness, “A highly memorable experience for me was when I was on tour with Giraffage two years ago. We played at a music hall which could fill around a thousand people. It was one of the biggest shows that I played. Just seeing this sea of people, it was beyond my wildest dreams. Just all these people to be cheering for you and dancing with you, and having a great time. It was a very humbling experience.”

Perhaps his strongest suit is his uncanny ability to make people dance. His previous monicker’s sound has been described as a sub-genre of new electronic music, a “lush glistening brand of synth-heavy arrangements”, as one would put it. Mark Redito credits his groovy tunes to several sources, attributing most of it to nostalgia. His playful aesthetic comes from growing up in an environment of video games, the soundtracks of which having seeped into his consciousness.  His music is also heavily characterized by Japanese pop with a nod to producer, Yasutaka Nakata. What’s surprising, however, is where he draws his inspiration from in the local pop culture scene. As it turns out, Eraserheads, the four-piece band that defined an era in Filipino music, played a huge part in his development as a solo artist. You don’t hear it in his musical make-up but the spirit it stands for is definitely there, “They’re the shit that I listen to, and I would say that they’ve been a big part in terms of songwriting and melody construction. It started from Ultramagneticpop which was very raw. It’s not the best quality but it’s full of energy. The pop songwriting on that one was really amazing”.

The tunes he puts out are by-products of a very systematic process. It’s borne of a healthy amount of discipline, a routine he doesn’t bother falling under. When he’s not on tour, he blocks off 2 to 3 hours on his daily to write music, explore certain sounds, make some loops, and experiment with his software. The man’s creativity is harnessed by the music he consumes. This is his unapologetic take—the method to his madness, if you may.  This habit-forming foray of his has bid him well. This has blessed him with a resplendent growth into his artistry. There’s a fine line between CocoLulu and Spazzkid, and a definite distinction to the current namesake he carries. His sound palette has noticeably evolved into an artist finding his identity to one who’s grown confident into his own skin. The common thread then lies in the recurring theme he has consciously sought to put out with his melodies, “It’s always been about acceptance and positivity and hope. My music seeks to give you a respite from whatever baggage you’re carrying for the moment. It gives you the license to let loose and forget about your worries for a bit.”

If there’s been a struggle to his craft, he doesn’t show it. Mark Redito is the kind of person who takes matters into his own hands. He shares how representing a minority has been a challenge in the context of America’s electronic scene. Nonetheless, he chooses to view it in the positive light of things. Among his noteworthy undertakings is Liquido, a regular party he hosts in L.A. The cause behind it is close to Redito’s heart. It’s a space where diversity is championed and features people of color, women, and LGBTQ line-ups among others. This year, he’s looking into branching Liquido outside its party stance, to make it more akin to a lifestyle. We hear there’s also a bunch of visual collaborations with filmmakers on the horizon. And definitely a new album in the works after the Asian leg of his tour.

His young thriving musical persona is not one that can be doubted. And his slow steady climb to the top makes the success that comes with it a whole lot sweeter. His body of work speaks for himself and so does his learnings, “Don’t be afraid to be yourself. I think that people don’t need to stress out too much about where they are in their creative pursuits or careers in that the process is there. Sometimes, you’re up, sometimes you’re down, but I want to encourage you to stick to it. To be unique, to stand apart from the crowd because it’s the only way people will remember you. Just by being you.”

That night, as I was browsing my social media feeds, I came across him again. He was spinning his set in XX XX in Manila for his Neurotropical Tour 2017. Even through the screen, I could see how everyone was transfixed by his presence. He was making them throw their hands up in the air, whisking them away to the dance floor; a respite to their worries in true fashion. There’s no doubt about his rhythm, the way he was making people feel. This was Mark Redito in action. 

And this, at long last, is his homecoming.

Photo from his XX XX performance

The Streetwear Comeback: UNSCHLD since 2007, till 2017 and beyond

I bought my first UNSCHLD piece in 2013. It was a dark blue denim jacket that had Alfred E. Neuman patched on the back and stylized like a pirate. It also had "MARAUDERS" embroidered on it. I wanted it in black denim but that was sold out. 

Words by Red Moraleta & Photos by Zaldine Alvaro

I was in high school back then. I wasn't the type to go out so I didn't know how to do many things that I've grown accustomed to now. This was my first online purchase. No physical interaction with the seller – just go to the bank, deposit the money, then the item's going to be shipped straight to your door. Pretty simple, but it was already a challenge for the younger me that hadn't done anything independently yet. For a lot of the more grown-up errands and tasks that I do now, streetwear was one of the reasons I learned to do them. Before I even had the faintest idea of what streetwear was, it already affected my life. The bold designs, the meaning, the enigmatic presence that the clothes represented, they spoke to me. UNSCHLD embodies what streetwear is and their comeback is further proof of what kind of impact they had on people and continue to have on them. Seeing them come back with a collection brought me back to my roots, like a lot of us.

The streetwear powerhouse was founded in 2007. The founders envisioned the brand to be an entirely different entity from the individuals who compose of it. To have a wholly different different persona. To exist on its own. Its name "Unschooled" is derived from their collective outlook in life; that the brand will not follow a certain school of thought. That it is self-taught. Stylized as UNSCHLD, the brand's beginnings can be traced to the early days of online selling. Their products back in those days were mostly graphics-centered. And where an actual physical shop wasn't present, Multiply was. (Multiply was an online social networking site that allowed users to share media. It was prominent pre-Facebook, it's where local independent businesses would set up their online stores for free. It officially halted its operations in 2013.) Operations were guerilla-like, its spread was by word of mouth. Clearly a formula that worked for them as they rose to prominence and established themselves. Now, they return perennially awaited by the community.

The lookbook, which was dropped in August 2017, brought out a frenzied excitement and anticipation for the brand that had wiped clean all of its posts all over their social media. Soon, a date for a pop-up was announced through an event poster. The strategic set-up brought forth a crowd itching at their palms to get a hold of UNSCHLD. The line outside Openspace – where the pop-up is located – started at around 1:17 PM and only grew longer from there as the afternoon went by.

I went around asking people about UNSCHLD. Both old and new customers had nothing but praises to say. Old customers told me their stories about how they got into UNSCHLD in the first place and why they anticipated this return. New customers shared what drew them to the pop-up.

Josh Subeldia, a long time follower of the brand, remembers idolizing Rjay Ty and points to him as his influence for supporting UNSCHLD. David De Jesus recalls his affinity with the brand which started from the Word Play events at Ronac Art Center where he would see the quality goods that the then Ronac-based store carried. (UNSCHLD had a shop in Ronac Art Center after closing Commune at Perea St., Makati City.) While KLTRD co-founder Mong Feliciano reminisces about UNSCHLD's early days in Perea St., where the same owners of the brand run the streetwear store, Commune. "It was the place to be at the time, around 2009-2010." he shares. All of them found out about UNSCHLD through physical interactions, one of the many reasons that made the brand's community flourish. While old customers experienced UNSCHLD first-hand, new customers like Argie Alcantara and Joey Coscolluela had to wait for this comeback release to get a piece for their own. Both of them found out about UNSCHLD when the brand was on hiatus, which is why they never got the opportunity to purchase pieces from the local streetwear pioneer. Argie, already wearing the cap he bought, says the wide variety of pieces and superb craftsmanship drew him to the launch of UNSCHLD's new collection. Joey tells us he found out about the pop-up from a friend and saw the opportunity to finally buy a piece from the brand he's only seen online. With streetwear and the internet fully acquainted, UNSCHLD has reached another resurgence for its community.

UNSCHLD's own – Julo de Guzman, owner, and Rjay Ty, manager, added a few things. When asked about the reason of UNSCHLD's hiatus, "UNSCHLD never stopped. Operations were always ongoing, it just seemed we were gone from the outside." they shared. And what more can we expect from the brand? "More streetwear staples that have the same trusted quality." they eagerly explain.

 

UNSCHLD's since grown from its inception, it is now revered as one of local streetwear's pioneers. Their humble roots of graphic tees have now expanded into full garments and accessories, so it's exciting to see where they're going next.

Creative's Travel Guide: 18 Hours in Siargao by Archie Geotina

Soak in some sun and fall in love with Siargao's amazing views and laid-back vibe. Siargao, in all its glory, has a reputation of being deemed as the surfing capital of the Philippines, understandably so, with countless of surfboards that have kissed the waves of its beaches and the amount of surfing spots it has to offer. But what do we really know of this surf-loving island besides its lively waves and the evidently sun-kissed skin of its locals and tourists? Artist Archie Geotina didn’t know much either, not until he packed his bags and started living there almost two years ago.

Back in Manila, Archie Geotina, better known as ‘chichimonster’, kept himself busy with freelance work as an artist. Working with different brands and doing art direction for different clients, Archie managed to fill his already thick portfolio with all the creative works he has done in the past. He also ventured out, owning a sewing shop that manufactures clothing for local and foreign brands, together with his partner. Needless to say, his life in the city was pretty productive and creatively-driven. However, for Archie, with the desire to breathe in a different type of air, moving to Siargao seemed like the most natural decision as he sees the hustle and bustle of Manila to be, in his own words, ‘repetitive’ and ‘mundane’. 

“I wanted to challenge myself and I wanted my mind to grow. So I decided to change my mindset by changing my scenery. And everything around me and in me changed after that.” Archie shares. These days, he is still rooted in his creative activities – would fly back to Manila once a month for a huge project he is currently doing, as well us check up on his sewing shop back in the city. Together with all of these responsibilities, he now also works as the brand manager of Harana Surf Resort.

So with his background and time spent in Siargao, we are sure Archie's guide to the island would be really interesting. The list is composed of his recommended activities that one can do within 18 hours in the island, to experience its laid-back vibe, great community and a variety of food.

Words by Christia Ramos & Photography by Emmanuel Ybañez

6AM – 7AM: Wake up like a local

With the tourism in Siargao becoming a thriving scene, it’s best to come and watch the sun rise at the Cloud 9 tower to avoid the swarm of tourists later in the day. This way, you’ll get to witness the island in its purest form.

7AM – 8AM: Explore the island in style

For Archie, the best thing about Siargao is its lack of traffic, he would often drive around on his Honda TMX 155 brat while the island is asleep. After soaking in on an amazing view, why not rent a motorbike and explore the island for a much closer look while in motion and take advantage of the early hours to experience Siargao in its peaceful nature.

8AM – 10AM: Grab a hearty breakfast

Let Shaka or Harana Surf Resort fill you up with the most important meal of the day. After driving around, your appetite would've gone through the roof and a serving of some healthy breakfast from Shaka or a taste of the classic Filipino-style breakfast with a cup of the island's best coffee from Harana Surf Resort will do just the trick. 

While you're at it, go on ahead to Kawayan Gourmand for a taste of some legit croissants, but better go there early 'cause these things run out fast. However, if you're looking for a quick bite and cheap good food, go and look for Shat's or Dadang's by purok 3 and you'll find Archie's favorite and well-recommended carinderias.

Shaka 

Harana Surf Resort

10AM – 12PM: Surf like the locals do

After an hour full of great food, it's time to head on over to Malinao beach for a swim. It's a peaceful beach far from General Luna and it is less reef and more sand if you find the right spot.

Check the beach if surfing is possible. If the tides are right for the breaks that you want to surf in, go surf. Do not go to Siargao and not surf at least once. As a beginner, look for a SISA (Siargao Island Surfer's Association) certified surf instructor and get lessons at Cloud 9. Normally they will take you to a break called Jacking Horse, a good beginner break that works best during high tides. On lower tides the wave gets bigger and jacks up faster. 

12PM – 2PM: Feast on some fresh seafood 

You'd be hungry by now, so go with your friends and do some island hopping to Naked Island, Guyam and Daku. Before you head out, buy fish in the General Luna market and have it cooked in Daku island where you can rent cottages so you can relax under the shade. Normally you would spend 500 per head or 1,000 including food. 

2PM – 3PM: Get a glimpse of Siargao's natural beauty

I always tell people to explore the island away from General Luna, go to Tak Tak Falls or Pilar or Tangbayan Caves. See the island in all its untouched glory and see how peaceful it truly is. The road trip normally teaches tourists why they should respect the island. You realize these things when you explore. 

3PM – 4PM: Siesta time

The island will wear you down with all of the activities. So it's always good to have time to rest and slow down. 

4PM – 6PM: Snack, then go again

Grab a snack at CFC, Catagnan Fried Chicken. Then go back to the beach for a sunset surf. 

6PM – 8PM: Treat yourself with some more good food

Have some dinner at Kalinaw, although a bit on the higher ended price-point, the food and service in Kalinaw never disappoints. I recommend that you try their thin crust pizzas and specials.

8PM – 9PM: Bottom's up!

It's happy hour at Kermit's, so grab their mojitos, these drinks are buy one take one until 9pm so get them while you can.

9PM – 10PM: Sip or sleep

You're probably a little tipsy by now, but you can still head to Harana Surf Resort for some B52's and tequila shots if you're pre-gaming for a party. Or you could take a more relaxed route and get yourself some well-needed slumber.

10PM – 12AM: End the full day with a blast, if you're still up for it

Head to Viento Del Mar, Rhumbar or Jungle Disco for a glimpse of Siargao's nightlife. But you should really get some rest. All the activities that you did prior? That's only half of what you can do here.