You can’t go wrong with the classic, but it doesn’t hurt to explore unique versions of the well-loved Italian dessert. If you’re hankering for a new but equally decadent take, don’t tira-miss this – local family-owned bakery The Tiramisu Bar offers a Hazelnut Tiramisu that fans of both will go nuts for!

Tiramisu Bar’s Hazelnut Tiramisu spoke to me the most, as a hazelnut lover myself. Delicately balancing the flavors of strong espresso, chocolate, and hazelnut well, the sophisticated and cohesive dessert still allows the hazelnut components to shine, in order to set itself apart from the regular tiramisu. It almost stands as its own kind of dessert, but doesn’t stray too far away from the basics of a good tiramisu.

Coffee is still used to soak the savoiardi until soft and moist, providing a substantial base to the hazelnut-flavored mascarpone on top. In between is a textural layer of praline feuilette, which provides an addictive crunch and slight sweetness from the milk chocolate – it’s similar to crushed crispy crepes. Silky mascarpone cream finishes everything off, garnished with freshly-roasted hazelnuts on top for an added bite. It’s like a Ferrero Rocher in tiramisu form, but with a more subdued sweetness that isn’t overpowering. One baby slice is not enough!

“Hazelnut is my favorite nut and gelato flavor. I always get nocciola at every gelato shop, no fail. I’m also a big fan of French cakes that have a crunchy praline feuilletine base, so I figured, why not put all my favorite elements into a tiramisu?” Tiramisu Bar told Rappler, sharing that the inspiration for their new flavors is usually found in their favorite gelato shops.

The small size for Hazelnut Tiramisu costs P990, while the medium size costs P1,890. The former is good for 2-3 pax, while the medium is good for 4-6.

All about tiramisu

Also on Tiramisu Bar’s menu is a Dark Chocolate Orange Tiramisu, made with a generous serving of Italian mascarpone, espresso-soaked savoiardi, and a rich layer of velvety dark chocolate ganache, infused with fresh orange rind. If you’re not a fan of dark chocolate and orange together, this might be too experimental for you, but if you are – by all means, try this out! The orange zest adds a subtly zingy contrast to the deep, dark chocolate. It costs P890 for the small and P1,690 for the medium size.

Of course, Tiramisu Bar also offers the Classic at P790 for the small and P1,490 for the medium.

Tiramisu generally costs a bit more than the usual dessert, because every layer requires a lot of “care and attention,” as Tiramisu Bar shared. Each layer of each flavor is meticulously prepared one by one, and then assembled one at time, which is a cool feat, considering that none of Tiramisu Bar’s owners have any prior F&B experience. Both brother and sister studied Mechanical Engineering and Economics at the University of the Philippines Diliman, respectively. Their mother, who works in the transportation industry, helps with R&D.

“We decided to start Tiramisu Bar after a few trips to Italy. It’s one of our favorite desserts and we were frustrated we couldn’t find anything in Manila that we really liked, so we began making them at home. Initially we were just making it for ourselves and sharing with friends and family, but they encouraged us to turn it into a business,” they said. The owners planned to launch it after their last trip to Italy in 2019, but delayed it due to the pandemic. Operations began in December 2020.

The Tiramisu Bar’s commissary is located in San Juan City, and is also called the Stone House, because of its “interesting bungalow structure made of adobe stone that kind of reminds people of Intramuros,” Tiramisu Bar shared. As of now, the business is delivery-only, but plans of holding pop-ups and physical shops are in the works.

To order from Tiramisu Bar, you can message them on Instagram. – Rappler.com

ibis is one of the hospitality brands of the Accor Group, the same company behind Novotel in Araneta City, Fairmont in Makati (under Ayala group), Mövenpick in Cebu and in Boracay, and MGallery in Manila. 

Accor categorizes its Novotel brand as “midscale” and its ibis brand as “economy” or three-star. Worldwide, there are ibis hotels with a red logo, ibis Styles with a green logo, and ibis Budget with a blue logo.

The one in Araneta City is ibis Styles, the top ibis brand. Construction of the P2-billion, 15-story hotel started in January 2020. It will have 286 rooms or 22 rooms per floor when fully completed by the second half of 2024, employing around 200 people. It is expected to be half-completed by May.

Only its first five floors and its French restaurant, Le Bistro, are open for now. ibis Style’s front desk and Le Bistro are accessible via Gateway Mall 2’s fourth and fifth floors respectively, on the mall’s north side. When the mall is closed, guests can enter via the hotel’s ground floor entrance on the north side of Gateway 2. 

Although it’s considered “economy,” Rowell Recinto, senior management consultant of Araneta City, told Rappler on Tuesday, March 12 the hotel is “more a businessman’s hotel, more three-and-a-half [star].” 

ibis Styles’ room rate is around P3,000-plus a night if you book in March and April. Most of the other 3-star hotels in Quezon City have lower rates. 

In France and other parts of Europe, ibis is pronounced as eebees, but in the Philippines, it’s pronounced as ay-bis to avoid sounding like ipis, the Filipino word for cockroach. Many other countries outside Europe also pronounce it as ay-bis.

There are 675 ibis Styles hotels worldwide as of December 2023 with a total of 72,567 rooms. 

Each ibis Styles has a “unique and inspired theme” with a “photo spot” where guests can take photos and share them on social media. 

And since it’s in Araneta City, known worldwide for its Big Dome, now branded as Smart Araneta Coliseum, its photo spots are three big boxing-glove lounge chairs where people can sit or lie down for selfies.  

Araneta Coliseum is where the historic boxing bout between American boxers Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, dubbed “Thrilla in Manila,” was held on October 1, 1975. It’s considered one of the greatest boxing matches in the sport’s history with both boxers fighting a brutal match which Ali won. (READ: Pulling no punches: Carlos Padilla on refereeing the Thrilla in Manila)

The ground floor of the hotel has a red-and-white boxing-glove lounge chair with a black-and-white wallpaper of the boxing match in the background. At the fourth floor of ibis Styles, which is also its main lobby, are two brown-and-mocha boxing-glove lounge chairs with an artwork of the words “The Show Must Go On” placed on the wall in between the gloves, plus a gold-plated studio light beside the right glove. 

ibis Style’s restaurant, Le Bistro, with a patisserie, is now open daily for all-day dining. It serves French and European dishes such as French Onion Soup and crepes. 

ibis has six function rooms that can already be booked. Its roof deck will have an overhanging swimming pool as well as a bar where Metro Manila’s skyline will be visible. It is expected to open in the next couple of weeks, Recinto said.

The Accor Group says ibis is the world’s “leading economy brand” with a footprint of over 1,400 hotels globally, mostly in Europe. It has high brand awareness in France, Denmark, United Kingdom, Australia, and Britain. One of its flagships hotels is ibis Barcelona Center, which was inspired by the renowned Spanish architect and designer Antoni Gaudi. – Rappler.com

ALSO ON RAPPLER

• Long time coming: Palenque offers Philippine regional cuisine from north to south
• ‘Mini-Disneyland’: Araneta Group reopens Fiesta Carnival in time for Christmas 2023
• Tab Baldwin says historic Araneta Coliseum makes for ‘special’ FIBA World Cup
• LOOK BACK: Araneta Coliseum’s most iconic events
• The Thrilla in Manila: Behind the scenes and beyond the fight

The Philippines – which was named the World’s Leading Dive Destination for the fifth consecutive year by the 2023 World Travel Awards – is home to the most beautiful reefs and diverse marine life, cared for by tourism professionals who are passionate about offering amazing diving experiences for all.

Whether you’re just a dive beginner or a more seasoned one, it’s a must to visit the top four diving destinations in the Philippines, declared by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), in partnership with travel platform Klook.

Cebu

Some of the best aquatic and beach activities can be found in Cebu, and PADI recommends the Discover Scuba Diving in Moalboal with PADI 5 Star CDC program for those diving for the first time.

The “Discovery Dive” is all about the basics – tourists are provided with equipment and an easy introduction before exploring the ocean. A full immersive experience is guaranteed under expert supervision, complete with sightseeing of different habitats and the learning of different fish.

Dumaguete

Located in Central Visayas, Dumaguete is known for many things – silvanas, fresh seafood, scenic sights, the colorful Buglasan Festival, ancestral houses, churches, coffee shops, and its water activities and flourishing marine life.

For those not too keen on diving, PADI and Klook recommend snorkeling, a water activity that’s just as fun. The Full Day Snorkeling Wonders with PADI 5 Star Center Tour explores the crystal-clear waters that surround the island of Danjugan, and the chance to discover first-hand Julien’s Wreck, which is situated in front of Dumaguete’s famous Turtle Island.

Palawan

The popular tourist beach destination is also home to the best diving sites, specifically in El Nido and Coron. The Explore El Nido’s Best Dive sites with PADI 5 Star Center Tour offers a leveled up Fun Dive experience, where beginner and professional divers can receive personalized attention from experienced divers, high-end Scubapro gear, and a spacious local dive boat equipped with a shade, a toilet, and even a kitchen.

Some of the best diving spots in El Nido include Nat Nat, Twin Rocks, Paradise Beach, South Miniloc, Dilumacad Island, West Entalula Wall, and Popolcan West.

Puerto Galera

The Mindoro town’s diving experiences cater to both beginner divers or casual tourists looking to snorkel or enjoy a refresher dive, and also to more experienced divers who want to take Advanced Courses.

The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver in Puerto Galera is tailored for open-water divers who want to improve their diving skills – professional divers will offer lessons on underwater navigation, buoyancy
control, and deep diving. Through these programs, you can earn more credits towards your own PADI specialty certifications!

Where in the Philippines do you dream of diving next? – Rappler.com

Kitchen 143 now heads out of the home kitchen and visits old and new favorite restaurants in and out of Metro Manila.

In this episode, Kitchen 143 host Michelle Aventajado of Momma ‘N Manila heads to the 32nd floor of Westin Manila in Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong for some delightful Spanish cuisine. Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez is a new partnership between the renowned chef and Westin.

Joining her live are Chef Chele Gonzalez himself, Westin General manager Alexander Dietzsch, and Cantabria’s chef de Cuisine Ivan Saiz Sordo.

Visit our Instagram page to get a chance to win one of five gift certificates worth P2,000! Don’t forget to download the Rappler Communities app and join the food and travel channel to have a chat with fellow foodies.

Download the Rappler Communities app available on web, iOS, and Android. – Rappler.com

Liza’s smile felt genuine — not just the kind worn for flashing cameras and eager eyes. It had the feeling of authenticity that could only stem from sincere gratitude and contentment to be at the point in her life she was currently in. 

For a brief 26 hours, Filipina actress Liza Soberano returned to the Philippines for a special event with Maya. Liza, on Tuesday, March 5, launched her new campaign with the Philippine digital bank — marking another milestone in their prosperous relationship. This time, she teamed up with Golden Globe and BAFTA-nominated actress Dolly de Leon in a new film to promote Maya’s unique e-banking experience. 

In this interview, Rappler catches up with the newly-minted Hollywood actress. Here, Liza talks about her experience working on the film Lisa Frankenstein, her liberating partnership with Maya, and all that she has learned about herself along the way. — Rappler.com

Big and rising names from Hollywood gathered on Monday morning, March 11 (Sunday night, March 10 in the US) at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, USA, for the 2024 Oscars. 

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Arguably one of the biggest events in Hollywood, the Oscars signal the nearing culmination of a months-long awards season. Oppenheimer, the atomic bomb drama by Christopher Nolan, led this year’s nominations with 13 nods. Jimmy Kimmel is hosting the ceremony.

But aside from the winners, audiences also look forward to the Oscars red carpet as their favorite stars arrive in their glitziest and glammed-up ensembles.

Here are some of the celebrities who delivered stunning red carpet looks for Oscars 2024:

Cillian Murphy

Michelle Yeoh

Cynthia Erivo

Bradley Cooper

Emma Stone

Jennifer Lawrence

Emily Blunt

Margot Robbie

Ryan Gosling

Vanessa Hudgens

Zendaya

Jessica Lange

Issa Rae

Lupita Nyong’O

Charlize Theron

Florence Pugh

Olivia Munn

Ariana Grande

Hailee Steinfield

Jack Quiad

– Rappler.com

Must Read

Strong silhouettes, sparkles dominate Oscars 2024 red carpet

Anatomy of a Fall best actress nominee Sandra Huller donned a black gown with a dramatic neckline, as did actresses Eva Longoria and Rita Moreno. Cynthia Erivo donned a green gown with large cap sleeves that led to a train down the back. 

Poor Things best actress nominee Emma Stone wore a light green outfit with a flared, strapless bodice. 

America Ferrera, a best supporting actress nominee for Barbie, wore a sparkly pink form-fitting gown.

Midnight blue was also popular among women, like Killers of the Flower Moon best actress nominee Lily Gladstone, Nyad best actress nominee Annette Bening and co-star and best supporting actress nominee Jodie Foster. 

Several men also broke with tradition. While many wore the standard black tuxedo, several went in other directions. 

Rustin best actor nominee Colman Domingo wore a silver button tuxedo, complete with a brooch on his bow tie. 

Barbie best supporting actor nominee Ryan Gosling wore a suit with sparkly trim and no tie. Maestro best actor nominee Bradley Cooper also skipped the tie, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson appeared in a teal shiny suit and no tie. 

And a few of the women opted for a pantsuit, like best director nominee Justine Triet for Anatomy of a Fall, who chose a suit decorated with sparkly lines. 

Another accessory on the carpet were red pins calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, spotted on songwriting siblings Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell and actor Mark Ruffalo. 

Members of the Osage Nation, who will sing the nominated best song from Killers of the Flower Moon, came to the red carpet in colorful tribal dress. – Rappler.com

Here’s a Japan travel bucket list you might want to follow (or add to).

• Mt. Fuji – This mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Japan. You can go hiking during the summer or simply view it from Lake Kawaguchiko. On clear days, you can see it from various viewpoints in Tokyo.

• Shibuya Scramble Crossing – Who would’ve thought that watching people or partaking in crossing the street would be quite an experience? This crosswalk in Tokyo is one of the wildest and most famous. Go during peak hours and either watch from above or partake in the chaos.

• Hachiko Statue – This extremely loyal dog is commemorated with a statue near Shibuya Station. Have a few snaps to have a nice memory of your trip to Tokyo.

• Meiji Shrine – This shrine is dedicated to the former Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Construction concluded in the 1920s but was later rebuilt because of the damage World War II caused. This shrine is surrounded by trees and has a calming ambiance which contrasts with the everyday hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

• Shinjuku Gyoen – Tokyo is a sprawling concrete jungle with towers and skyscrapers dotting its cityscape. Amid all of this are green spaces like Shinjuku Gyoen. Take a break from the metropolis and soak in a piece of nature in the city. This park is also a great place to see the cherry blossoms.

• Sensō-ji Temple – Asakusa, Tokyo is a throwback to the city’s ancient times. One of its main landmarks is the Senso-ji Temple. The shrine dates to 645AD and has retained its original look over the centuries. It’s also lined with multiple shops that sell food and all sorts of items and souvenirs.

• Check out Harajuku – If you’re into fashion and the latest trends, walk around Harajuku. Here you’ll find various shops and maybe get inspiration for your next OOTD.

• Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine – This renowned shrine is several centuries old and is characterized by its many torii gates. Toyotomi Hideyoshi donated the striking Romon Gate you’ll see at the entrance in 1589. You can follow the hiking trail up to the viewpoint.

• Himeji Castle – Also known as White Heron Castle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must when you visit Japan. It’s a well-preserved and maintained castle that’s both striking and historically significant. It is one of Japan’s 12 original castles that was not destroyed by natural disasters and wars. 

• Lake Kawaguchiko – This destination is an easy day trip from Tokyo because of its accessibility by train and bus. It’s a resort town with plenty of scenic views of Mt. Fuji. You can go biking or simply walk around the trails to get picture perfect views of Mt. Fuji. One of the best viewing spots is in Chureito Pagoda. 

• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – This centuries old temple is one of Kyoto’s most popular destinations. It used to be a shogun’s retirement villa before it became a Zen Buddhist temple. It serves as a beautiful foreground to its surroundings.

• Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) – This Zen temple is patterned after Kinkaku-ji. It was a center of contemporary culture during its time. Like many temples in Kyoto, this complex is surrounded by nature which creates a tranquil ambiance. 

• Higashiyama District – Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s history by exploring Higashiyama. The district has well-preserved traditional shops and that makes you feel like you’re stepping into a time warp. You’ll most likely see locals and tourists alike wearing kimonos as they walk around.

• Explore Gion – History lovers will enjoy exploring Gion district in Kyoto. The area is lined with traditional architecture, restaurants, and teahouses. Drop by Chion-in Temple while exploring.

• Arashiyama – This destination might seem touristy, but it’s a noteworthy addition to your Kyoto itinerary. The Bamboo Grove is one of the most photographed spots while the Tenryu-ji Temple is a notable historic and cultural attraction.

• Matsumoto Castle – This is another complete and fetching original Japanese castle. One of its unique features is that it has both a turret and secondary donjon connected to its main keep. The castle area is a popular cherry blossoms viewing spot. Make sure to check out the castle at night as well. 

• Kiyomizudera – This temple is one of the most renowned in the country (it’s also in Kyoto). It dates to the 8th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best time to visit the temple is during spring and autumn. You’ll see cherry blossoms in spring while autumn showcases a variety of colors.

• Dotonbori – Osaka is a foodie’s destination with plenty of authentic and scrumptious Japanese food to choose from. You’ll have plenty of options from sit-down restaurants to food stalls while exploring the area. One of the reasons people visit this area is because of the neon-lit Glico Man. Make sure to take photos!

• Osaka Castle – This castle dates to 1583 and was the largest castle at the time of its completion. Toyotomi Hideyoshi had this castle built. The castle has undergone many renovations and reconstruction over the centuries. Like many other Japanese castles, this one is also a popular cherry blossoms viewing spot.

• Kamikochi – This park provides nature lovers with hiking trails and scenic views. The Japanese Alps loom over Kamikochi and makes for a spectacular background for photos. Climb one of the peaks or simply go on a leisurely walk leading to ponds and a marsh.

• Shirakawa-go – If you’re looking to see the countryside, don’t forget to include Shirakawa-go in your itinerary. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Gifu’s quaint and beautiful farmhouses. The latter was designed and built to withstand the freezing and snowy winter months.

• Nara Park – This park is home to numerous deer and historic buildings. You can feed the deer but once you do, a few will start following you.

• Todaiji Temple – This temple complex dates to the 8th century. The temple’s main hall is home to one of the largest Buddha bronze statues in the country. 

• Kamakura – This city is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo. Its most visited attraction is the huge bronze statue of Buddha. It dates to the 13^th century and has survived multiple natural disasters. Kamakura draws visitors because of its beaches, Enoshima, and ancient buildings and structures.

• Universal Studios Japan – If you like theme parks, this one in Osaka is the place to be. Universal Studios Japan provides you with several rides to enjoy and revive your inner child. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of USJ’s most famous attractions. 

• Tokyo Disneyland – Disneyland is a dream destination for both kids and the kids at heart. This huge theme park has plenty of rides (and long lines) to fill your day. Don’t forget to watch the fireworks at night.

• Nagasaki – This city is one of the places where the Americans dropped the atom bomb. The devastation the bombing caused lasted for years. However, fast forward to today, Nagasaki is a bustling industrial city. You’ll find monuments and museums about the city’s most harrowing event. Nagasaki also has a long history that goes beyond the atom bomb. It’s one of the places that was open to foreign trade centuries ago. Check out the Peace Park, Oura Church, Glover Garden, and Mount Inasa (for the night views).

• Hiroshima – This is another city that experienced the devastation of the atom bomb. Like Nagasaki, Hiroshima has overcome its harrowing experience and is now a popular tourist destination. Some of the museums and monuments in the city display the long-lasting effects of radiation and the initial chaos the bomb inflicted. They also showcase the hope and aspiration to eliminate weapons of mass destruction. Some of the highlights of your trip include the Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden, and Peace Park just to name a few.

• Miyajima – This island is a popular day trip from Hiroshima. You can follow the scenic walking trails to different parts of the island. Two of the island’s most famous attractions are the historic Itsukushima Shrine and the torii gate that looks like its floating on the sea.

• Sapporo – This city is famous for its winter Snow Festival. You’ll find a variety of snow statues and sculptures during your visit. 

• Yokohama – This city is a possible day trip from Tokyo. One of the reasons visitors and locals make their way here is to see a giant Gundam move.

Japan has several other places you can add to your itinerary. These are just some of the bucket list-worthy destinations you might want to consider for your upcoming trip. Regardless of the season you visit, Japan is a country you’ll love. – Rappler.com

Joshua Berida is a writer that loves to travel. He blogs at www.thewanderingjuan.net.

#ShareAsia highlights the best and most sought-after experiences in the Asia-Pacific region. It’s a content and resource hub for tourists and locals alike seeking new, exciting experiences in the region.

The joint effort of Art Informal, Blanc, The Drawing Room, Finale Art File, Galleria Duemila, MO_Space, Underground, Vinyl on Vinyl, and West Gallery champions innovative ideas adapting to ever-changing cultural landscapes, challenging the working model and consumption of art. Each gallery provides a distinct focus and specific angles unique to its aesthetic, generating a melting pot of dynamic visions supplementing one another. ALT Philippines offers a glimpse of how community comes to be in an inspiring display of togetherness — a uniting effort empowering everyone without exception.

Thoroughly researched and meticulously planned by established veterans in the scene, the Contemporary Art Collective makes certain to amplify the artist’s voice, organically leading to a deeper connection to the art public. “We aim to rouse audience participation and more in-depth discussion within an intimate setting,” shares the collective. In observing how constant societal change can foster new formats, they build a new central space for connectivity in the art world.

The event deeply roots itself in community. Interactive exhibits and collaborative installations encourage a sense of shared awe and expression. Artist talks delve deeper into their respective crafts. Different facets of art overlap in the integration of varying fields of practice. There is always something for everyone, a unique experience for all. In a partnership with UNIVERS, a silent auction of custom Moreau Paris bags was held with proceeds pledged to scholars of the Philippine High School for the Arts. It always circles back to community.

Sharing the same ethos, exhibiting artist Derek Tumala reveals how he establishes a collective practice and finds freedom in his creative identity.

For your consideration: An interview with Derek

Raymond: Can you walk us through your practice?

Derek: Currently I’m interested in ecological world-building, meaning my practice is centered in the interest of climate, nature, and ecology. Most of my recent works revolve around the idea of presenting ecological thinking in the contemporary, which is embedded in a complex system of colonial and capitalist legacies. These can come from a form of an exhibition, public program, even raves/party, community interaction, performance, publication, and research. My artistic expression does not entirely rely on physical material art production, in a way, to resist the capitalist impulse.

R: In what ways are you able to restructure knowledge and shape things constantly evolving?

D: By considering my art practice as public service, my impulse is to learn and understand how the world operates. I wanted to be able to transform my personal view into the universal. Restructuring knowledge in a sense of interconnecting aspects of life that are inherently understood as separate – like art and science, in which we are taught to be entirely separate. To restructure art and science together as a new way of thinking, I want to reconsider generating knowledge that is dynamic and inclusive.

There’s a movement recently that urges humanity to return to our simple ways of living, to reconsider what is progress. To reconsider indigenous and traditional knowledge, to create a language of inclusivity and to revisit our past to create a new future that is free from colonial and capitalist aspirations. This is where I want to situate my thought process.

R: I’ve noticed your exhibited work was a reassembly of reflective perspex taking an entirely different form. That’s sustainability in practice as well!

D: Yeah, I try to reconsider my art production processes by practicing sustainable ways of using material. To be honest, physical objects are the least of my interest in my art practice, but this is somehow essential in an art practice. If I could produce more intangible artworks like video and publication, I think I’ll pursue that more.

R: Is light a key element in a lot of your work? From solar energy to iridescence, in one way or another, there are always different properties of light in play.

D: Yes, light is essential in my work. I think this where my interest in the cinematic quality of raves and theater that draws me to it. Light is a vital part of my work and as much as possible is integrated into my exhibitions. I also was interested in video light projection and mapping, which I was able to transpire in some of my previous works.

R: Environmental ethics also seems to be a recurrent theme. Can you elaborate on this devotion?

D: Environmentalism as they call it is something that I want to pursue. After doing research on climate and ecology, most of our futures are grim and irreversible. We are already in the middle of an ecological crisis, and although I feel hopeless after knowing scientific information on our nature and climate, much of my interest now is to show how we are adapting in a changing world we live in now. Our relationship with nature is something we need to articulate more and more as we move through harsher conditions.

R: There is so much intention in what you create. What about the accidents? Have they been of benefit to your practice as well?

D: There’s an attempt [at] purity in what I do in my art practice. I want to see life as it is, the way I perceive it. So sometimes I feel like I’m over the place but in reality I’m just being myself. I guess we are trained to see art practices as one long linear consistent line that anything that goes against it is not part of the practice, or considered bad. And that is because there is an impulse of selling. An art practice somehow needed to be digestible to be understood. But I guess the less I care the more I feel like I’m doing the right thing.

R: What other avenues are you exploring now? What projects are you proudest of?

I think I want to do more research, more field work. After the MCAD Tropical Climate Forensics project, I think I can create works based on it for the next years. The Philippine narrative is rich but the interest is more on the “pity” side of things. There is more beauty still than horror. My last exhibition “winter high through the veins in search of hot weather” with Mano Gonzales in Edoweird is, I can say, I’m proud of because it presented another way of expression that is close to me – dance. And I was worried that it might be so far from my art practice, but after seeing the video work, I thought this is what exactly how I view my life today, somehow a ritual of disintegration and revival. On how it encapsulates my interest from fashion, rave to ecology. 

R: As an artist, you essentially dream new worlds into existence. How does that usually go for you?

D: I have to constantly move, to constantly think. Learning does not stop, ever. I always think about fantasies, euphoria, dystopia, darkness, and lightness. I think it’s essential for me to be able to feel all of this. I have to meet people, experience life outside of my comfort zone. To go to remote places, reaching far-flung emotions, it’s all part of it. World-making is setting a stage, a cinema of how I build a life towards ecological practice with the consideration of pleasure and pain.

R: How do you avoid creative stagnation?

D: You don’t. When I feel like I cannot produce at a time, I allow myself to languish, to be introspective. I have to rest. I have to listen to my body and mind. The most beautiful act of resistance is to rest.

R: Lastly, what advice can you give young up-and-coming artists?

D: To be patient. Everything takes time to grow. Plant your seeds [in] places you want it to grow. Your most authentic work can grow in fallow soil, [it’s just in] how you take time to care for it. Being ecological is also being considerate to yourself.

– Rappler.com

I can understand the need to find your personal set of colors – I’m sure I’m not the only indecisive girly who’s stood in front of retail shelves, wondering which color top won’t wash me out. I’ve spent too much time at drugstores swatching on multiple concealers and blushes to find the shades that “seem” to work best for my skin’s unknown undertone.

This is where the art of color analysis comes to play – a fascinating world where science meets style. By unlocking a palette of color possibilities, this can help hue get to know your colors (and yourself) better! Thankfully, a trip to South Korea is not needed for this – certified color analyst Enzo Villacorta of Color Match is here to bring more color into his client’s lives, helping them embrace their personal rainbow, one shade at a time.

No shade – just love

Inspired by the K-beauty trend taking Seoul by storm and his hunger for creativity, Enzo – who started in theater, marketing, and branding, and is now in beauty content creation – trained under the Korean Standard Color System in South Korea in 2023 and brought his learnings to Metro Manila shortly after.

Needing to fulfill his creative drive and apply his many learned skills, Enzo realized that a lot of his interests gravitated towards telling stories. “I realized how important and underrated the role of colors plays in our lives,” he said.

A color analysis session will tell you which shades can bring out more life in you, and which ones don’t necessarily do you much justice. No shade thrown here, just the truth and a sense of empowerment to explore and play with color in your daily wardrobe, makeup looks, and even personal space. Plus, it’s a fun and in-depth learning experience that you can apply forever!

“My philosophy when it comes to personal color analysis is that we shouldn’t be adjusting to colors. People often think that color analysis is about restricting yourself on what you should and shouldn’t wear – but I see it more as using colors to your advantage,” Enzo said.

“If a client likes a certain color that doesn’t complement them so much, I’ll try to find a way to incorporate it into their wardrobe.”

Color analysis relies mostly on the principles of color theory and the science of human perception. Every individual has undertones in their skin that are usually either warm, cool, or neutral. These undertones interact differently with various colors, affecting how they appear against the skin. And it’s not just skin tone – the process also considers your eye color, hair color, and even personal image to determine the most flattering shades for you.

“My color analysis method is like a guide. I can’t dictate what you’re going to wear, but I can tell you why certain colors affect you a certain way. That way, you’re able to be more intentional and mindful when picking out colors,” Enzo said.

Are hue ready for this?

Every color analysis experience is deeply personal, and Enzo fosters a warm, non-judgmental, and intimate atmosphere where insightful conversations are encouraged. Think of it like a personal puzzle, where every pigment is a piece, and Enzo helps you find each piece and arrange them accordingly.

My session began with Enzo casually running me through what to expect for the next two hours. I was tasked to answer a personal info sheet – alongside a serving of tea and cookies – on my personal color preferences and personal image.

“A lot of people really think that it’s simply being told what they should and shouldn’t wear, so I like to set the tone early during my sessions,” Enzo said, making sure to inform his clients that sometimes cameras don’t always capture what we’re seeing in real life, so sometimes the changes we see in person aren’t always the same on camera.

The next step – which may be one of the most crucial – was finding out my undertone through a nifty skin-analyzing device, which helps Enzo compute the amount of redness and yellowness present in your skin, which determines the undertone.

After 30 years of existence, I finally found out that I was a cool-toned chick, and not the warm-toned woman I thought I was! This explained a lot, like why certain concealers weren’t covering my dark circles as well, or why I always gravitated towards pink shades of lipsticks and blush.

“People with deeper skin tones are told to only wear dark colors, people that are more fair are told that pastels suit them best— which isn’t always the case,” Enzo said as he proceeded to explain the basics of color analysis, color theory, and even the set of colors associated with the “personal image” I chose about myself (I chose spring, which shows “tender, “delicate,” “soft,” and “sensitive” pastel shades). I say: ACCURATE.

Now onto the main event: the draping! I was led to a fully set-up room with a long table of different fabric swatches laid out, a beauty mirror, chair, and a phone stand for time-lapse video-taking. Enzo’s fabrics and materials are all sourced from Korea, and the lights are specifically timplado according to science to showcase your real skin, Enzo says, which is why online consultations for color analysis aren’t advisable.

After tying my hair back and removing my makeup, I donned a white cape and let the colors do the talking!

Swatch and learn

The overall draping session typically lasts an hour – Enzo really took his going through every shade with me and its effect on my skin, while also answering my questions. At the beginning, Enzo instructed me to focus only on the apple of my face – the center area of my nose, cheeks, and undereyes – whenever a fabric is draped against my skin. Instantly and amazingly, I could see the impact of color on my skin!

The shades are categorized by seasons – Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter – and according to strength: soft, vivid, deep, dull, pale, and whitish. We went through each shade meticulously, and I could really see how two shades that look almost the same made a difference.

Some colors noticeably brought out the natural redness in my face, while others helped diminish it. Deeper and dull shades made my undereyes darker, while the lighter, more pale shades made my skin look more filtered and clear, even. Some brought upon a dullness, while other shades evened out my complexion. It was fascinating to see for myself!

We even did a makeup analysis, where Enzo “drapes” lipstick and blush shades to match, as well as hair colors (warm-toned and dark browns work well, apparently). The last part was the jewelry analysis, which was so helpful – apparently, I am not a silver girly, but a gold and rose gold one.

At the end of the session, I felt validated, affirmed, and excited to maximize my newfound colorful discoveries! Through Enzo’s work, we discovered that Summer Whitish shades work best for me – nudes, creams, pastel pinks, lavender, baby blue, pale yellows and greens – which are already the colors I love the most and have in my wardrobe. Included as well were Spring Pale and Autumn Soft shades.

I was also surprised to find out that Winter Vivid shades work on me too, which I’ve always discredited for being too dark and bold for myself. This then gave me the nudge to add new colors to my closet and inch out of my comfort zone with bright red, yellows, and royal blues!

My best colors were those of “high value and low-med chroma,” and as for monochromatic colors, white and light gray were my best friends. Enzo’s makeup recommendations are also extensive and very useful – he suggested a green primer/corrector for excessive redness, and even gave my K-standard foundation number of 20, as well as specific beauty brands and products.

Everything is visually presented in your own color board, and his makeup suggestions are also presented after your session. For me, spring colors are best (warm, corals, and peaches). He even checked out my makeup pouch and analyzed each beauty item, letting me know if the current concealer, cheek tint, or tinted lip balm I’m using are working for me.

“Color analysis isn’t a one-size-fits-all type of thing. When done right — it’s really such a personalized process, and in some ways it’s also very intimate,” Enzo said.

“It’s a really great feeling when I see people realize how good certain colors look on them. Growing up in the Philippines, I think a lot of people were taught to view colors in a somewhat stereotypical manner. That said, a lot of my previous clients have mentioned how good of an investment it was to do color analysis with me. Some of them even sent me updates on how they apply their personal colors, and it’s really such a wonderful feeling to see them looking so confident and happy,” Enzo added.

Admittedly, some clients come out more confused than excited – a lifetime of thinking black is your color can suddenly be challenged in just an hour, and some panic over the thought of overhauling their entire wardrobe. But that’s okay! It is a learning process, and as Enzo said, there is “no bad color” – it’s just about guiding you towards more coordinated color choices that reflect your best and most confident self better. Embrace the versatility!

Enzo’s Color Match packages cost P6,000 for the Basic Analysis, which includes the skin tone analysis and finding out your best and secondary colors. The Full Color Analysis (P8,000) includes makeup, hair, and accessory colors. You can also make your own package by choosing what to add to the basic analysis (ex. Basic Analysis + Makeup colors).

I can agree wholeheartedly that a color analysis session is a worth-it investment, especially if you’ve always been curious to try it out or are just looking for new ways to amp up your style. It’s an eye-opening and exciting experience that you will be able to carry with you your whole life – the knowledge you gain from Enzo is timeless and practical, and you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the vast world of color around us. And hey, it gives you an excuse to buy new clothes and makeup! – Rappler.com

You can check out Color Match by Enzo Villacorta on his Instagram page.