Joyce Penas Pilarsky - Fil

fil-am who’s who
FEBRUARY 2014
Joyce Penas Pilarsky
Filipina Couture Designer
Rommel del Rosario
Young Entrepreneur
Lemuel Sison
50th Birthday Bash
Ron Richer
Stockbroker by Day
Arts Advocate by Night
In This Issue. . .
Organizations We Love
A Word from
The Editor
4
Rommel del Rosario, Young Entrepreneur
Cover Story: Joyce Penas Pilarsky
Lemuel Sison’s 50th Birthday Bash
Ron Richer, Financial Expert
Oliver Oliveros
Do the Right Thing
5
8
10
In Graduate School at New York University, my former Theory,
History, and Practice of Public Relations professor Fraiser Seitel,
who is often invited to talk on national television practical topics
such as media interview training for CEOs and executives and
effective crisis communication strategies, and the author of about
a dozen editions of “The Practice of Public Relations,” which
every public relations practitioner should read, has ingrained
in us—his former public relations students-cum-colleagues—to
“always do the right thing.” Follow that cardinal rule whether
you are in the midst of a stressful crisis, or smoothly running
a corporate social responsibility campaign, in order to build a
good reputation to any brand, personality, non-profit or for-profit
organization.
12
Photo by Rolan Gutierrez
Doing the right thing is not always easy—and not always
popular—but apparently doing the right thing is also the chosen
path to success of at least three of our featured personalities in
the latest issue of Fil-Am Who’s Who: Beauty queen-fashion
designer-environmentalist Joyce Penas Pilarsky, who may be
Germany-based, but still hires locals in the Philippines to breathe
life into her creative designs; prominent RDR Cargo’s Rommel
del Rosario, who’s never embarrassed that he has had his share
of bad business decisions, which made him wiser nonetheless;
and our very own “sheep—not wolf—of Wall Street” stockbroker
Ronald Richer, whose wealth management expertise is
something he has been proud to share among the stereotypical
struggling artists, who, unfortunately, are mostly clueless about
the business side of the arts. Good job, Joyce, Rommel, and
Ronald!
Renowned couture designer Joyce Penas Pilarsky graces the
cover of Fil-Am Who’s Who. Cover photo by Von Buenconsejo of
Speedlite Production, vonbuenconsejo.blogspot.com; hair & make
up by Guilly Valenzuela of Signature by Guillano
Kudos also to our truly hardworking Filipino-American performers
on Broadway Frenie Acoba, who plays Lavender, the best
friend of the precocious Matilda in Roald Dahl’s “Matilda” on
Broadway, which I saw on February 12, and Adam Jacobs,
who shines in the title role in Disney Theatrical Group’s latest
show on Broadway, “Aladdin,” which I saw on its first preview,
February 26. Expect vibrant choreography, countless costume
changes, literally grand entrances, and parodies of Disney’s own
franchises in “Aladdin.” Bring the whole family!
Lastly, congratulations to the people behind the Build A Shelter
Project—The Philippine Consulate General in New York,
Philippine Jesuit Foundation, and Gawad Kalinga—for raising
more than $223K in three months. The funds will be used
in rebuilding the lives of typhoon Haiyan survivors in Samar,
Philippines.
We invite Fil-Am Who’s Who readers to contribute articles,
letters, comments , or pictures. Please email submissions to
filamwhoswho@gmail.com.
We use information sources that we believe to be reliable, but do not warrant the accuracy of those sources.
Reasonable care is taken to ensure that Fil-Am Who’s Who articles and other information on the website are
up-to-date and accurate as possible, as of the publication date.
fil-am
who’s who
2 FIL-AM WHO’S WHO
FEBRUARY 2014
STAFF Editor-in-Chief Oliver Oliveros • Managing Editor Myrna Gutierrez • Layout Artist & Photo
Editor Rolan Gutierrez • Marketing/Sales Director & Columnist Ollie David • Marketing/ Sales
Executive & Columnist Prospero A. Lim, MD • Contributing Writer Maricar CP Hampton • Publisher
Fil-Am Who’s Who, Inc.
Copyright © 2013 Fil-Am Who’s Who, Incorporated. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without
permission is prohibited. Fil-Am Who’s Who invites you to contribute articles, letters, comments, or pictures to the
editor. Please email submissions to filamwhoswho@gmail.com. For advertising inquiries, please email
adsfilamwhoswho@gmail.com or call (732) 499-7995, (917) 502-9887, or (917) 502-9891.
KNOW THOSE
WHO LOVE YOU
L
Ollie’s
Grapevine
Ollie David
ove is the finest of all gifts. Embrace those who truly love
you because there are only few in a lifetime. Then return
that love tenfold, radiating it from the heart to fill their lives
as sunlight warms the darkest corners of the earth.
Love is a journey, not a destination. Travel its path daily. Do
this and your troubles will be as fleeting as the wind.
Love is being happy for the other person when that person is
happy; or being sad for the other person when that person is
sad. Love is being together in good times, and being together
in bad times, too.
Love is the excitement that comes when planning and doing
things together; it is about giving and taking, and being patient
with each other’s needs and desires.
Love is knowing that the other person will always be with you
no matter what; or missing the other person when that person
is away.
Love is the source of life.
We are so happy to be back home from the medical mission
of the Philippine Medical Association of America (PMAA) in
Camarines Sur in the Philippines, the hometown of PMAA
President Ben Sales and his wife, Fe. The experience was very
rewarding and unforgettable. We were introduced to Camarines
Sur Polytechnic Colleges President Dr. Dulce Atian, and the
school’s band and very talented and beautiful cheerleaders;
Municipality of Nabua Mayor Delia Simbulan; and 5th District of
Camarines Sur Congressman Salvio Fortuno and his staff.
THE POWER OF LOVE
LOVE is the strongest and
most fulfilling emotion possible
It lets you share your goals, your desires,
your experiences
It lets you share your life with someone
It lets you be yourself with someone
who will always support you
It lets you speak your innermost feelings
to someone who understands you
It lets you feel tenderness and warmth – a wholesome that avoids loneliness
LOVE lets you feel complete
– Susan Polis Schutz
Mayor Simbulan, who is very lovely and energetic, and Dr.
Atian, who is gorgeous, witty, and brilliant, we sincerely thank
you from the bottom of our hearts. The food and entertainment
were first-rate!
Ollie’s Attendance Sheet Photos by Ollie David
Arrival at Naga Airport (L-R): Dr. Edgar Lerias, Ollie David,
PMAA President Dr. Ben Sales, Noel, Aniano Rabe
Dinner in Makati City: (L-R) Drs. Joe and Stella Evangelista, Dr.
Nancy Alcala, Dr. Elenita Binay (Vice President Binay’s wife),
Ollie David, Dr. Ramon Alcala, and Ms. Roxas
PMAA Pharmacy Dept.: Dr. Ned and Menchie Pulido, Fe Sales,
Nabua Mayor Delia Simbulan, Lee, Dr. Joe Quintos’ sister, Ollie
David, Dr. Joe Quintos, CSPC President Dr. Dulce Atian, and Dr.
Ben Sales
Welcome Dinner: Standing (L-R): Menchie Pulido, Dr. Prospero
Lim, Dr. Ben Sales, Nabua Mayor Delia Simbulan, CSPC
President Dr. Dulce Atian, Dr. Ned Pulido, Dr. Buddy Arguilla.
Seated (L-R): Rev. Fr. Mike Lagrimas, Aniano Rabe, Dr. Aida
Arguilla
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 4 FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 3
Organizations
We Love
GAWAD KALINGA
and
SIMBANG LINKOD NG BAYAN
Forging Ties In Building Houses for Typhoon Haiyan Survivors
G
Photos Courtesy of the Philippine Consulate General NY
awad Kalinga Community Development Inc. (GK), a
Philippine-based movement that envisions the end of
poverty for five million families by 2024, and Simbahang
Lingkod Ng Bayan (SLB), a nonpolitical, Philippine Jesuit
Foundation-led organization committed to the service of Filipinos
and the Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines, are devoted to
building 36 new houses, estimated at $107K, in Pinasuan, Hernani,
Eastern Samar, which was devastated by the recent “killer typhoon”
Haiyan (Yolanda).
Donation from Jaycees Philippines NY: (L-R) Co-conveners
Nimfa Tinana and Vivian Talambiras-Cruz, Shirley Domingo
and Sonny Ramirez of GK USA, Roger Alama, Consul General
Mario de Leon, Jaycees Philippines NY President Zultan
Bermudez, Deputy Consul General Zaldy Patron, Vice Consul
Khrys Corpuz, and Ferdinand Suba ESQ
Mario Lopez de Leon Jr., Philippine Consul General to New York,
recently visited the Philippines to personally attend the signing
of a memorandum of agreement between GK and SLB by way
of the Build A Shelter Project (BASP)-US Northeast movement,
which was launched in the aftermath of typhoon Haiyan to aid
the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the typhoon-affected
communities in central Philippines.
“We can now begin constructing the much needed permanent
shelters for the typhoon survivors in Hernani, Eastern Samar. I’m
extremely grateful to all organizations and individuals who have
donated to BASP, which will continue to raise funds to build more
villages in other areas such as in Giporlos, Eastern Samar,” says
Consul de Leon, whose office initiated the movement, together with
leaders from various Filipino American communities.
Conveners Nimfa Tinana, Vivian Talambiras-Cruz, and Dean
Suba with Consul General Mario de Leon at the launch of Build
A Shelter Project
“God is truly good! We have raised more than $223K so far,
while our initial goal for the project was only $10K,” adds Vivian
Talambiras-Cruz, a convener of BASP.
Donations came from K-Media, a radio network in Queens; Korea
Daily News’ 1004 Foundation; and other charitable institutions. Alex
Go, who hails from Giporlos, Eastern Samar, has also donated one
hectare of land in his hometown.
Memorandum of agreement signing: (Seated L-R) GK
Executive Director Luis Oquinena and SLB President Fr. Javy
Alpasa; (Standing L-R) Consul General Mario de Leon and GK
Chairman Tony Meloto
Prospective donors may still send donations payable to Philippine
Jesuit Foundation with “Yolanda Calamity Fund-Build A Shelter
Project” in the memo line c/o the Philippine Consulate General
Cultural Section at 556 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10036.
(L-R) Jose Ma. Montelibano (GK), Alex Go, Fr. Javy Alpasa
(SLB), Consul General Mario de Leon, Tony Meloto (GK), Luis
Oquinena (GK), and Jaja Oquinena (GK)
4 FIL-AM WHO’S WHO F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 4
For more information, email
phcongen.newyork@gmail.com.
Never Fear Making Mistakes
By Oliver Oliveros
Photo by Rolan Gutierrez
uccessful young
entrepreneur Rommel del
Rosario, whose fast-growing
freight shipping company’s name—
RDR Cargo and Logistics—is
based on his initials, does not
regret looking back at the mistakes
he made in the recent past because
as smart businessman as he is, he
has made mistakes; learned from
those experiences; and vowed to
never cross those blunders again.
“My first crack at freight shipping
business was only three years
ago; I was working as a distribution
agent for some people here in
New York, and I didn’t know
that those men were fly-by-night
operators,” del Rosario reveals to
Fil-Am Who’s Who. “It was a big
mistake. I wanted to make things
right. So I did my research and
forged partnership with LCSN.”
LCSN Express Movers Inc., which
is based in the Philippines, has
more than 10 years of professional
experience as a fully licensed
freight forwarding company. LICENSED AND ACCREDITED BY THE PHILIPPINE SHIPPERS BUREAU
YORK PA & Neighboring Twn
James Laygo - 717.654.3254
NEW YORK OFFICE:
39-12 A 63rd Street, Woodside NY
BERGENFIELD NJ OFFICE:
76 S. Washington Ave. Bergenfield NJ
JERSEY CITY NJ OFFICE :
449 Hoboken Ave. Jersey City NJ 07306
TOMS RIVER NJ
RJ SARILING ATIN
4561 Lakewood Rd. Toms River NJ 08755
NILO– 732.642.0513
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS
CONNECTICUT, UPSTE NY
SURE PINOY STORE
145 Water St. Quincy MA
JUN - 617.328.8880
339.793.0668
DELAWARE
BALAN STORE
867 S. Dupont Hway New Castle DE 19720 FORT WASHINGTON MD
BALAN– 302.757.1431
737 Cady drive,
Fort Washington MD 20744
MARYLAND NOTTINGHAM
NOLI– 301.248.8807
MANILA SEAFOOD & MARKET
(MD,DC,VA,GA, FL)
8836 Belair Rd. Nottingham MD 21236
LONG ISLAND
DON - 410.529.0663
FIESTA FOOD MARKET
14 W. Merrick Rd.
(Baltimore City, Baltimore County,
Valley Stream NY 11580
Hartford County & all over MD)
Buboy - 516.872.4677
Pete 443.527.2274
Finding an ally in LCSN, del
Rosario’s flagship company, RDR
Cargo and Logistics, was formed in
HERSHEY,Harrisburg,
Northern VA, DC, Montgomery
Mechanicsburg PA
Prince George County of MD
August 2011. From a small pop-up
Mimi-717.813.0538
ROCKY - 571.419.8489
store at Grand Avenue, Queens,
RDR Cargo has opened two stores
in New Jersey (one in Jersey City;
the other in Bergenfield, NJ) and a store in Woodside, Queens, whose combined accumulated packages can fill up an entire 40-foot
shipping container every week; has acquired a truck and four cargo vans; has signed up authorized distribution agents from coast to
coast; has begun offering various travel packages; and has been contemplating of expanding operations to the United Kingdom in a
span of nearly three short years!
Also the former CEO of Recall Paintball franchise in Davao City, del Rosario, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and
Engineering from Ateneo de Davao University, attributes his relatively newfound business success in the city that never sleeps by
sticking to his planned goals; spending quality time in market research; hiring the right employees; and—once again—never fearing to
commit mistakes. “I have not failed. I have just found 10,000 ways that would not work,” del Rosario quotes Thomas Edison, who has
been an inspiration to the Filipino businessman.
Del Rosario, in fact, is honest enough to admit that shelling out about $30,000 from his own savings when his company led the recent
relief efforts in typhoon-stricken central Philippines was unforeseen, but could have been done with less money paid for extra labor
and transportation costs. “I have no regrets about doing it; but next time, I’ll just park several trucks in front of my stores, where people
can leave their donations, instead of having the trucks running around,” he says—a nugget of practical wisdom well said from an
inspirational entrepreneur who is indeed not afraid to take risks; bold enough to admit mistakes; and move on from them.
Rommel del Rosario extends his special thanks to LCSN Express Movers Inc., his partner, and family friends Jonathan Naniong and
Lenie Naniong.
Visit rdrcargo.com.
FEBRUARY 2014
FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 5
Young singer-pianist Reign Acedera entertains
guests at the Philippine Consul General’s
residence.
December
January
Rewind
PIDCI’s 2014 Grand Marshals Drs. Emilio and Fely Quines (leaning over the
sofa) were introduced during the “Evening with the Consul General.”
Rolan Gutierrez
Department of Tourism OIC Mitch Dy, Philippine Trade Rep. Michelle Sanchez,
and Philippine American Chamber of Commerce Board Member Agnes Jamora
Ria Serrano and Kay Habana at the latter’s first
F E B R U A R Y Klassic
2014
concert
“Christmas
with Kay Habana”
6soloFIL-AM
WHO’S WHO
Team Ugly Kitchen at Inuman at Pulutan trade event
“Haiyan” Fundraiser at Hilton, Staten Island (L-R) Steve Derodar, Aniano Rabe, Dr. Prospero Lim, Ollie David, Consul General de Leon,
Fe Martinez, Myrna Gutierrez, Marietta Lamar, Albert Diala, and Katherine Bartow
“Haiyan” Fundraiser at Hilton, Staten Island (L-R) Vice Consul Khrys Corpuz, Owners of Nicotra Group LLC and Hilton Garden Inn
Lois and Richard Nicotra, Consul General de Leon, Fe Martinez, Ollie David, and Myrna Gutierrez
Father Patrick Longalong delivers an inspirational talk at a fundraiser for
Paaralang Pinoy.
Fil-Am Press Club of New York’s induction of officers (L-R) Butch
F E B R U A R Y Rivera,
2 0 1 4 FIL-AM
Gata, Consul General de Leon, Monette
Momar
WHO’S WHOVisaya,
7
Tambi Wycoco, and Randy Gener
Joyce Penas Pilarsky
Filipina and Proud
By Maricar CP Hampton
Photos by Rolan Gutierrez
Multitalented artist and beauty queen Joyce Penas Pilarsky is living a purposeful life. In
fact, she continues to pursue her dreams and at the same time spread God’s love be it in
modeling, fashion and jewelry, design, visual arts, or writing a book with gusto!
Joyce believes commitment and dedication is the key to her success. “All I do is made with
a lot of love and passion,” she says.
Even as a young child, Joyce already showed a strong interest in the arts. “I was always singing. I used to play with my paper dolls and
draw beautiful clothes for them. I was also into painting. My school grades in the arts, music, and writing were my highest.”
Born and raised in the Philippines, she first worked as a flight attendant for Philippine Airlines and Saudi Arabian Airlines. She was also a
commercial and fashion model before becoming a prolific fashion and jewelry designer.
Last year, Joyce received the People’s Choice Award and named Miss International Ambassador at the 2013 MWI (Magnificent Women
Icons) International, the premier pageant for women over 35.
Joyce, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education, never really had any formal training in fashion designing; but with the
encouragement of her family and friends, she decided to make a jump into the fashion world. “Like I said earlier, I started designing for
my dolls and later for me and my family, and then for my friends. My friends
would always tell me that they loved my clothes; so they eventually asked me to
design for them. I have designed a lot of wedding dresses for my friends,” she
shares.
She continues, “I didn’t go to a fashion design school, but I read a lot about the
different designers that inspire me. But I don’t want to copy their work. I want to
have my own designs because I want to be me and not anybody else. I’m not
good with machines; I do everything by hand, which takes a lot of time.”
Today, she is making waves in the fashion industry by creating cocktail dresses,
gowns, and jewelry with a unique style. She describes her collection as colorful,
daring, and sophisticated. “My collections are always full of colors, which make
one happy. That’s the purpose of my fashion design: Make a woman happy
wearing my creation because it gives her confidence by looking sexy and
gorgeous at the same time elegant and stylish.
Despite the stiff competition in the fashion scene, Joyce’s creations have gained
international recognition in Paris, Germany, and the United States.
Recently, she mounted not one but two fashion shows at the Brooklyn Fashion
Week. “According to the directors of the fashion event, they received thousands
of applications from different designers around the world, but they only invited a
few that’s why I was honored and proud to showcase my work here,” she says.
In New York, Joyce chose to incorporate the Filipino flare by making use of
native materials. “I used pina, abaca, and habing Iloco fabrics. I wanted to show
wearable daywear and something ‘sexy’ that you can wear to a dinner date.”
In creating her designs, Joyce gets her inspiration from nature and everything
around her. “For wearable day and evening dresses, I use very nice colors; do a
lot of embroideries; and use stones and sequins. I use insects and birds as motif
for bracelets and necklaces that match the flowers on my dresses.”
Accomplished as she is, Joyce always tries to give back to her kababayans.
She has been hiring Filipino women as weavers and embroiders for her many
projects. “I purposely use local materials because a lot of Filipino women ask for
my help to give them jobs as skilled workers. In doing so, these women can send
their children to school, and we can further promote Filipino products.”
Asked how she plans to connect to the discriminating taste
of Filipino Americans in New York? “Being a Filipina myself,
I’m positive that they will support me. I would be designing
more Filipiniana dresses here because you have a lot of functions
and parties that showcase our mestiza gowns,” she says.
Away for the all the glitz and glamour of the fashion world, Joyce,
together with husband, Gunter, a successful businessman, is
actively involved in the Joyce and Gunter Pilarsky Foundation,
which supports aid projects in the Philippines and other countries.
The second of seven children of lawyer Felix Million Penas and
Soledad Javellana Nonato Penas, Joyce never ceases to dream
big. In 2012, she became an author of the health book “YSG!
Young, Sexy & Gorgeous!” which introduces the concept of good
health as the basis of staying young and beautiful. Proceeds of the
book, now available on Amazon.com, go to a vocational school in
Bustos, Bulacan.
This year, she plans to put up a one-woman show in Manila
showcasing all her creations. “There are many things I still want
to do. But of course I pray for it a lot because the Good Lord
might have other plans for me. It is always God who makes things
happen,” she says.
Joyce Penas Pilarsky
Couture Designer
Scandic Palace
4291 Emilia St. Palanan, Makati City
Philippines: (02)-511-0620
Mobile: 09178201954
Germany : +00491727623806
www.joycepilarsky.com/
www.facebook.com/JPPDaringCollections
twitter.com/JPilarsky
Photos by Shawn Punch
FEBRUARY 2014
FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 9
Milestones
& Moments
L
Medical Technologist
LEMUEL SISON
Celebrates 50th Birthday
By Oliver Oliveros
Photos by Rolan Gutierrez
Seasoned medical technologist Lemuel Sison, who is originally
from Manila, Philippines, and has been working with Nassau
University Medical Center’s microbiology department for more
than 20 years, stylishly celebrated his 50th birthday with his family,
friends, and co-workers in Long Island’s premier event venue
Verdi’s at Westbury last December.
Lemuel Sison
Partaking the sumptuous array of food and non-stop
entertainment, which reached fever pitch with the eye-popping
belly dancing by a professional talent and Lemuel’s wife, Vannie,
were the who’s who in attendance that included Philippine
Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI) President Fe Martinez;
PIDCI Directors Ollie David, Margie Wisotsky, and Dr. Prospero
Lim; Garden State Filipino American Association President Francis
Sison; United Team Maharlika President Rene Ballenas, who also
emceed the jovial party; and friends from the various pathology
departments of Nassau University Medical Center, Sunrise
Medical Laboratory, Quest Diagnostics, Core Lab of North Shore,
and New York Hospital Queens.
Lemuel, the fourth child of Mr. and Mrs. Leopoldo Sison who hail
from Iloilo and Mindoro, Philippines, respectively, graduated from
the Adventist University of the Philippines (formerly Philippine
Union College) with a bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology.
After graduation, he soon landed his first job at Saint Luke’s
Medical Center in Manila.
First dance set to the music of
“Now & Forever” by Richard Marx
In the United States, he has built his medical technology-focused
career starting with the Queens General Hospital, which eventually
led him to a more long-term employment at Nassau University
Medical Center, where he has been immersed with the rapidly
changing world of clinical microbiology.
Lemuel balances his
successful medical career
and volunteer work with
a happy family life.
The Sison children: Kyle Martin, Leighvanni Allison, and Kevin Lester
10 FIL-AM WHO’S WHO
FEBRUARY 2014
Lemuel needing some help with the candles
A toast for good health by Lemuel’s youngest son Kyle
Emcee Rene Ballenas and wife Cynthia
Lemuel celebrates with friends
and colleagues from Nassau
University Medical Center,
Sunrise Medical Lab, New York
Hospital Queens, New York
University, Quest Diagnostics
and North Shore-LIJ pathology
departments.
A selfless volunteer in various Filipino American community projects, Lemuel balances his successful medical career and
volunteer work with a happy family life. He is married to blood donor specialist Vannie for 25 years, with whom he has
three wonderful children: Kevin Lester, who is attending St. John’s University in the Fall to pursue a degree in Homeland
and Corporate Security; Leighvanni Allison, who is studying economics and member of honor society Sigma Alpha Delta
at Baruch College; and Kyle Martin, who is a junior at Flushing High School, and a receiver-cornerback for the school’s
football varsity team.
During days off, Lemuel travels with his wife; sings; scuba dives; cuddles Maddie, the family’s four-year-old maltipoo; and
plays tennis and basketball with the Park Boys of NY.
FEBRUARY 2014
FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 11
RON
RICHER
Stockbroker by Day
Arts Advocate by Night
By Oliver Oliveros
M
anhattan stockbroker Ronald Richer, who
studied economics and film at Binghamton
University, a premier public university
in the Northeast, has his priorities right:
Grow his roster of affluent clients for his
lucrative, rewarding practice as a seasoned
stockbroker; raise his only daughter, Chloe, and his only son,
William, the best way that he can; and spread the joy of art
among fledgling artists and their arts’ current and prospective
consumers. In Richer’s own words, he aptly labels himself as
a “stockbroker by day, a happiness creator by night.”
Born and raised in the Philippines, Richer, whose parents died
when he was young, grew up living with his grandmother in
a household that did not tolerate spoilt behavior; rather, did
seek to encourage self reliance and independent thinking.
An early appreciation for the arts did engrave a soft spot for
artists in him as well.
A founder of two companies, For-Solutions, a web hosting and
email management company, and B&R Group, LLC, a license
distribution company for Zo-on Iceland, a sports apparel
company, Richer, on the one hand, believes that any working
professional, whether it be in the field of financial consulting,
or in the directly opposite field of non-profit community
volunteerism, should ultimately pursue what would make the
person happy. Richer’s newly established company Fashion
Art Music Movies Now (FAMMnow) does just that: FAMMnow
brings this happy balance to Richer’s family and work life.
“The company promotes happiness in our lives by helping
young, old, and transitional artists to showcase their work and
share snapshots of their happiest moments of passion.”
Photo by Rolan Gutierrez
Such insightful look at people and business, on the other hand,
has also made Richer a smart, trustworthy, and dependable stock
purchase strategist for the past 15 years among his more than
400 private clients gained through his longtime employer, Global
Arena Investment Management LLC, which provides innovative
investment strategies that use the latest asset allocation and risk
management techniques, which in turn can significantly reduce
risk, and generate a substantially higher return of investment.
“I started with not a single customer in 2001, 2004, and 2006
and built a customer base of more than 100 clients in each firm
I was involved with within 14 months by developing a strong
rapport with potential customers—finding their particular needs,
and matching their needs with specific products,” recalls Richer,
who is currently the vice president for Global Arena Investment
Management’s private client group.
“Every investor should be provided with a well-informed financial
advisor—someone whom the investor can confidently depend on
for only the unbiased, conflict-free wealth investment advice,” he
says.
For more information about
Global Arena Investment Management,
visit globalarenaim.com;
He continues, “Originally, I wanted to start a nonprofit
organization, but it got too crazy with the bureaucracy. So I decided to start a for-profit company where I could
fund everything and distribute the profit to people and/or
organizations that I believe need financial aid the most. My
definition of ‘charity’ is singularly defined—may be completely
different from yours. I prefer to veer away from donating to
‘traditional charities’. FAMMnow shares its funds directly to
the end recipient.”
12 FIL-AM WHO’S WHO
FEBRUARY 2014
for
FAMMnow, visit fammnow.com.
The World is
My Oyster
Dr. Prospero A. Lim
Medical Mission in Camarines Sur
This year the Philippine Medical Association of America’s (PMAA) medical mission pushed through
— amid earlier logistical issues — in Nabua, Camarines Sur, the hometown of PMAA President
Ben Sales Jr. on February 1 and 2. With our eyes fixed on our kababayans who needed medical
assistance, the ultimate trooper in us defied several inconveniences along the way; and it was
so worth it. Suffice it to say that the medical mission was one for the books and will not be easily
forgotten by some of the mission volunteers.
This year’s medical mission, which we regularly conduct, turned out to be successful. Thanks to all
the help of Ms. Delia Simbulan, Nabua’s town mayor; Dr. Dulce Atian, Camarines Sur Polytechnic
Colleges’ super energetic president, who also allowed us to use the school’s auditorium and avail
of the invaluable assistance of the school’s nursing students; Dr. Sales’ brother and relatives; and
Nabua’s elected town officials. Kudos to both Dr. Sales and his wife, Fe, for working so hard for the
success of the medical mission. At the mission center, we saw a good number of townspeople-patients, and provided much needed
medical services to them. Dr. Atian entertained us with her beautiful karaoke singing during lunch
breaks. The cultural entertainment prepared by Mayor Simbulan and her officials was truly something
to behold. It was extra special because we were joined by the Nabua locals who came to avail of our
free medical services earlier in the day.
After the medical mission, we toured the City of Naga and nearby places. On the next day we left for
Legazpi City and saw the beautiful Mayon Volcano—its perfect cone speaks of its glorious splendor!
We also visited Manila to spend the rest of our days in the Philippines on our own.
hAPPY
Happy
SHOOTING
Shooting
StarSTAR
Rolan
Rolan Gutierrez
Gutierrez
rolan gutier-
SHOOTER’S TIP
I took this picture of my
charming model Ria Martin
with her face leaning
diagonally, which was taken
at an event location in the
Bronx. I used my reliable
light source--my cell phone-to brighten up Ria’s face and
focused on her eye that was
closest to my lens. Ria’s
lovely painted bright red lips
have added an element of
attraction to this photo.
Happy shooting!
FEBRUARY 2014
FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 13
Community
Calendar
April 27
An Evening of OPM with Cecile Azarcon and Sounds of Manila
Synergy Productions and Marketing Inc. will pay tribute to the timeless
songs of OPM luminary Cecile Azarcon, featuring the multi-award
winning band Sounds of Manila, at Peter Norton Symphony Space, 2537
Broadway and 95 St, New York, NY at 7:00pm. Tickets $35, $45 and
$60. Call 212-864-5400.
March 15 PIDCI Grand Marshal Gala
Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI) will fete this
year’s Grand Marshals Drs. Emilio and Felicisima Quines at
7:00pm, World Astoria Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd, Astoria, NY. For
more information, contact Dr. Prospero Lim 347 248 5106, Ollie
David 732 499 7995, Nelia Ferrette 917 406 0839, or Angie Molina
718 875 2901.
May 17
Il Divo and Lea Salonga in Concert in Atlantic City
Tony winner and the Philippines’ pride Lea Salonga will join the operatic
pop vocal group Il Divo in concert at Borgata Event Center in Atlantic
City, NJ at 8:00pm. Tickets $75-$175, visit ildivo.com/us/events.
March 1
Piano and Flute Recital at National Opera Center
Filipino pianist Hector Martinez and flautist Stephen Josephs
will perform works by Bach, Hindemith, Messiaen, Chopin, and
Brahms, among others at the National Opera Center, 330 7 Ave,
New York, NY at 7:00pm. Tickets $15, call 212-796-8630.
March 23 Feast Day of San Pedro Calungsod
The Chapel of San Lorenzo Ruiz, 378 Broome St, New York, NY
will celebrate the feast day of San Pedro Calungsod: Novena at
1:00pm, Holy Mass at 2:15pm. For more information, email vicky.
baxa@gmail.com.
April 6
San Pedro Calungsod Procession, Mass, and Reception
Drs. Jose and Violeta Quintos invite you to the second annual
fiesta of San Pedro Calungsod. Msgr. Oscar Aquino, JCD will
be the main celebrant. The celebrations will start at 3:30 pm,
Immaculate Conception Church, 86-45 Edgerton Blvd, Jamaica
Estates, NY 11432
May 2
Miguel Braganza Celebrates 30 Years in Theater
Theater actor and performance coach Miguel Braganza will celebrate his
30th anniversary in the biz via SALAMAT, SALAMAT, NEW YORK dinner
show at Sheraton La Guardia East Hotel, 135-20 39 Ave, Flushing, NY at
7:30pm. Tickets $65 and VIP $125, call Debbie 551-998-8445 or Myrna
917-502-9887.
May 31
Deadline of Submission: 2014 Presidential Awards for Overseas Filipinos
The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) opens nominations for
the 11 Presidential Awards for Filipino individuals and organizations
overseas. For more information, visit presidentialawards.cfo.gov.ph.
Ongoing Candidacy Application for 2014 Mrs. Kalayaan and Diwa ng Kalayaan Pageants
Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI) is accepting
candidacy applications for this year’s Mrs. Kalayaan (married or formerly
married Filipinas) and Diwa ng Kalayaan (single Filipinas) pageants. For more information, email Albert Diala at acdiala@aol.com or Rolly
Postadan at rolster299@ymail.com.
Photography
Photography
Videography
Videography
Public
Public Relations
Relations
Social
Social Media
Media Management
Management
Journal
Journal Design
Design &
& Print
Print Production
Production
Website
Website Design
Design &
& Development
Development
Event
Event Management
Management &
& Instant
Instant On-Site
On-Site Photos
Photos
917
917..502
502..9887
9887
filamwhoswho@gmail.com
filamwhoswho@gmail.com
www.filamwhoswho.com
www.filamwhoswho.com
WHO
We Are
We’re Now A One-Stop-Shop Media Company
Fil-Am Who’s Who, your
favorite lifestyle magazine, is
only one year old; but we feel
we have so much more to offer
beyond the magazine.
Thus we recently expanded our publishing company’s
products and services from the
monthly magazine to public relations
and social media management,
photography and videography, journal
and website production, and event
management, and instant photo
print services. Of note, our instant
photo print service has proved to be
a big hit at various Filipino-American
community events. Attendees to
these events are photographed by
professional photographer Rolan
Gutierrez; photo prints—enclosed in
classy cardboard frames—are made
available in just a few minutes for an
affordable price.
Dr. Prospero A. Lim
With more than 50 years of
combined experience in media
and communication, Fil-Am Who’s
Who Inc.’s experienced senior staff
members Oliver Oliveros, Rolan
Gutierrez, Joseph Pe, and Myrna
Gutierrez — under the able guidance
of Dr. Prospero Lim and Ollie David
— assure our growing list of clients
only quality outputs and consistent
communication campaigns from
corporate headshots to single, multiple
camera event coverage; from publicity
efforts to social media engagement;
Oliver Oliveros
and from brand positioning to
integrated marketing communications.
Dr. Prospero A. Lim, former
president of the University of Santo
Tomas Medical Association of New
York, has a private psychiatry practice
in Staten Island, where is he is a
longtime resident since the late ‘70s.
He has been a competent leader
for several organizations such as
the Philippine Independence Day
Council Inc., Knights of San Lorenzo,
Waray Community Association USA,
Katbaloganon Association USA,
Joseph Pe
Empire City Medical Lions Club,
Knights of Rizal-New York, San
Lorenzo Ruiz Association in America
and Philippine Medical Association in
America.
Ollie David is a multi-award winning retired math and science
teacher who taught at Newark Public Schools District for
nearly 40 years. She has been recognized as a distinguished
educator by “Who’s Who Among American Teachers” for
her sustained excellence in teaching. She has served as
chairperson of the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc.’s
grand marshal ball. She is also a medical volunteer for the
Philippine Medical Association of America.
Oliver Oliveros holds a master’s degree in public relations
and corporate communication from New York University. For
nearly 20 years now, he has been handling reputation and
media management for various
brands, including Pepsi and
Nickelodeon, Broadway shows and
stars, and international recording and
concert artists. Besides Fil-Am Who’s
Who, his column appears regularly
on BroadwayWorld.com, the largest
theater site on the Internet primarily
covering Broadway, London’s West
End, and regional and international
theater productions.
Ollie David
Rolan Gutierrez
Myrna Gutierrez
To engage our newest services
call 917-502-9887 or email
filamwhoswho@gmail.com
Rolan Gutierrez, a computer
programmer turned photographer
and print layout designer, began his
photography career as a landscape
photographer with the UP-Diliman
Mountaineers during his college days.
For so many years later, he has been
doing portraiture, event coverage, and
designing organizational publications.
He served as the official photographer
during 2013 Miss World Megan
Young’s recent visit to New York
and New Jersey, which successfully
raised funds for super typhoon Haiyan
victims in central Philippines.
Joseph Pe is a multi-award winning
filmmaker-videographer whose credits
include “What’s The T?” a 10-minute
documentary about transgenders in
San Francisco and New York City,
which won third place in the Scary
Cow Film Festival in San Francisco;
“Mata” (Eye), which won third place
in the 1999 Experimental Alternative
Film Festival at the Cultural Center
of the Philippines; and “Lost Paris
Tapes,” which was screened at the
Asian Film Festival and ABC No Rio
Gallery in New York City. He also
dabbles in acting in theater, television,
and film.
Lastly, our business manager Myrna
Gutierrez is a computer programmer,
who is also a sought-after community
organizer and entertainment producer.
Currently, she is the public relations
officer of PAGASA Social Foundation.
FEBRUARY 2014
FIL-AM WHO’S WHO 15
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