She's Back!: Heart Evangelista in Paris Fashion Week

People wondered why she wasn't able to appear in the September 2025 - Spring-Summer 2026 seasons, but the real life crazy rich Asian did it for personal reasons and a serious health scare during those times. She's not hanging the stilettos anytime soon as she's back in Paris Fashion Week, fit to even walk the streets and venues of the shows. 

A week prior, she was sent to the hospital as she wasn't feeling well, but she wouldn't miss the Fall/Winter Haute Couture Paris shows for 2026-2027. It was slated from July 6-9, where over 30 fashion houses would showcase their greatest work including the much awaited designer Matthieu Blazy over at Chanel. 

Heart had to attend several shows and tried on a couple via fitting sessions which she showed on her social media accounts. She chose her shows well and prioritized those that have been so close to her heart, but knows she had to go back to Manila for her new programs. A few months ago, GMA announced "The People Have Spoken" which will be shown every Saturday on Kapuso channels. She's hosting the show and a LOT of people are excited about it! I guess it's a new era of Heart Evangelista and we're here for it! 

I remember back in January -February, Heart also was invited for several shows during. Paris Men's Fashion Week. She wasn't able to do that because of the same health scare and exhaustion, and pointed out how important it is to take care of your health. She also hinted how she should have not given her efforts for those who didn't even like her in the first place. Makes sense. I'm all for her goal of attending just those who would make her happy, and purpose. She also showcased Filipino designed jewelry in Paris (filled with lovely gem stones), which other influencers drooled over.

Heart recently appeared during the 75th Max Mara anniversary in Shanghai. She was there together with Hollywood stars like Michelle Yeoh and Katie Holmes. 

``

During her time in Paris Fashion Week, the shows were also graced by Zendaya, Blackpink's Lisa, Rihanna, Dua Lipa, Kate Moss, Aussie Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz and more. Heart might do this again in September for the Women's Spring Summer season. Go follow her social media accounts to see where Heart is going next! I'm so obsessed with the recent shows especially Schiaparelli, Hermes and Kenzo which she also adores! Oh I miss the scene! Can't wait for her to post more of her outfit changes and upcoming shows in Paris and perhaps, Milan too.

Spark Creative Shots with the LUMOS EVOKE Digital Camera [Review]

My passion for photography started at a young age as I've seen the work of masters here in Manila. Not divulging my age, I've seen them use film for most of the time and in 2010, I picked up my own digital camera to shoot runway and lifestyle events in the city. In the past, we had to go to establishments who have dark rooms to develop shots and print on photo paper. I still have a few cameras in my arsenal but if I'd want to experiment on filters, I usually depend on post processing with software for that. Good thing there's a new vintage style digital camera called LUMOS EVOKE.

I've had several LUMOS projectors in my home to watch movies and videos in off times (and it's all too pleasurable IMHO). The brand has seriously made technology accessible, but this new camera just fits right in my alley. I'm in that era of experimenting in shots. For me, taking a photo without a "look" defeats the purpose of being a photographer. 

In film, I had to use a slower shutter speed and lower exposure to use lights and have streaks in my portraits. To achieve the vintage look was a bit of an effort because you have to combine what you use as a camera, the film, the settings and the way you develop it. Although there's some in digital, much of it depends on post processing to achieve that "look" you want to see. The LUMOS EVOKE makes it easy because it's got 16 filters built in, which means all you need to do is shoot and transfer the shot to your laptop or phone to enjoy it.

Unboxing the LUMOS EVOKE

The LUMOS EVOKE comes in a classic white box that's got the image of the actual cam in front. Aside from the unit, this camera comes with a USB C charger, a micro USB adapter, the camera strap, neck strap, a card reader, a felt wipe and the user manual.

Here's what it looks like on video:

The LUMOS EVOKE Features

This is a thing of beauty. The color of the body is simply monochrome, but you can feel how they took time to design this chap, The grip naturally fits on the hand, the flash can be turned on with one button, as this also can take 4K at 30 FPS videos. The camera can take 64MP shots, and the built in 16 filters I mentioned gives you a ton of options if you want something different to come out of it. 

The LUMOS EVOKE also has a flip screen so you don't have to put in guess work when you're shooting in front of the camera (oh vlogging would be a cinch!). I would suggest to turn on the anti shake and auto focus functions especially if you've got shaky hands. It also has sufficient battery life, which means it'll last a long while if you're covering an event or traveling like I am too. When I'm with my family, I take a lot of photos which don't end up on social media. I usually keep it on albums for personal use, and show it to those who are very close to me. With the LUMOS EVOKE I get to have artsy looking shots and do that, including those that I use for coverage for the blog (including the celebrities you love!).

Now if you're keen to own one, they've got this on promo for only Php 4,999. Take the time to visit their site www.lumosprojector.ph/evoke to know more about this camera. I've got this in my bag ready to get creative, wish you get to experience what I've been doing lately. It's awesome!

See ANNE HATHAWAY Differently in MOTHER MARY

Just had the opportunity to watch MOTHER MARY, the Anne Hathaway and Michaela Coel artsy psycho drama thriller made for the cinema by David Lowery. This will be out in Philippine cinemas on April 22, but I'd love to tell you more about it before you'd dive in on the movie.

Anne plays the role of MOTHER MARY, an artist that's like a cross between Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift, who went bonkers and stopped in the middle of her success, and tried to find out what's making her lose track of her life. The film is like a hodgepodge of poetry lines + a visual feast of music, fashion, boldness, curses, artistry, confusion, weirdness, on being lost, style, fantasy and gore. Michaela Coel plays top fashion designer Sam, also MOTHER MARY's best friend and go to person for everything she wears on tour. The movie concentrates on their relationship, on finding out why she couldn't see that former spark that made her who she is as the pop star. This film is very cerebral, might scare some of how deep it is. You'll be a little uncomfortable on some scenes but I think it is essential on how it is presented. You'll hear some music from this generation's pop stars, intertwined with the story. My favorite line was when Anne's character said "I'm being dressed by everyone but it doesn't feel like me" and then Michaela replied "Tell me what you are feeling and I'll make that into a dress!"

It's a fashion spectacle, like fitting in a whole day of the Met Gala into the screen. It may take a while to get digested, but you'd be glad they took time to do it. I love Anne Hathaway in her previous roles, but this persona is certainly different even compared to her other dramatic roles. 

After seeing it, I get it. You'll also get to question your understanding after a few minutes which I think is the whole point of this movie. You won't be sticking to your realities, and might ask yourself very often (OMG WT* DID I JUST WATCH!). 

This is produced by A24 and released in the country by Creazion Studios International. I'd give a strong 4/5, and might suggest this for more mature fans of Anne Hathaway. It ain't Princess Diaries alright. It's like a living long form fashion editorial which I love. Go watch it!

JOSEPH MARCO at his PEAK, Celebrating His 3rd Year with HANFORD

Took the trip up north to cover the contract signing of actor/model Joseph Marco. The well loved man is on his third year with Hanford. 

The contract signing was witnessed by Dr. Victor N. Te the President, Ms. Sincerely C.Te the Executive Vice President, Ms. Sheena Ann Te-Tan the Vice President, Ms. Angelica Sangco the Sales And Marketing Manager, all of Mansfield International Incorporated. Present in the occasion was Ms. Katherine M. Liclican the President/ CEO of JKast Management Productions, Inc. (Joseph's management).

Dr. Victor N. Te welcomed us to the occasion. He said "This is the 3rd time we are signing Joseph Marco with Hanford. He is very intelligent, capable, dashing, fun, fearless, fresh, genuine and handsome. He's also very personable, quick witted, radiant, stylish, talented, unique, versatile, wholesome, has an x factor, youthful, and zesty. He is special, and our collaboration with him will have great success!"

Joseph replied "They chose to believe in me and that means everything to me. If you invest in me, I give back, I will always do my best. It's about comfort, confidence, and this is what Hanford stood for. For believing in me once again, thank you so much!"

Here's our conversation with him after the contract signing with the executives of Mansfield International Inc., the entity that owns HANFORD.

Joseph added "With HANFORD, every year our connection grows deeper. They made me own my craft in terms of the business, they really teach me the ropes. When you're given difficulties in life, you discover so much with yourself. Every year, I prepare a lot for them and the campaigns they include me in. I am bulking right now, last year, it took me months to get ready and I learn a lot doing that including nutrition, food, my lifestyle and working out. Soon, I want to have my own designs and I think it's the perfect time to do that. It's been amazing to spend 3 years with them, I am thankful, grateful and it's a powerful to be with a brand that trusts you. I feel like I'm at my peak, when you reach maturity, most of the distractions are muted. Right now, I don't waste time anymore so I make sure to work out and watch my diet. I have a personal cook, she cooks for me, it's part of the process because I want to challenge myself, to improve this time, stretch myself in setting the bar high!" 

Asked if he's wishing for anything, he says "I really think that the most valuable things in life are family, friends, self fulfillment, and finding your purpose. I am just grateful that I've passed that phase. When you learn how to be content, it's amazing. Always maintain your mental peace."

Congratulations Joseph Marco! You're killing it, and we can't wait to see what HANFORD is planning for your campaign this coming 2026. So far, it looks amazing from here!

Better Banking Rewards with Security Bank

 

Had a lovely morning at Shangrila Mall's atrium yesterday as Security Bank had all their people celebrate in "Ready, Set, Redeem!" which is a launch for their #BetterBankingRewards platform as part of their credit card perks. I think it's special because they really have designed it in a way where cardholders would be able to earn points easier, use their points with flexibility and enjoy the rewards conveniently instead of just being stagnantly there. With appealing promos and partner merchants as huge as the Mastercard network, you'll get to see and feel how rewarding it is to have one.

 

At the Shangrila Mall, they had different stations to exchange points into miles with different airline companies (You can exchange your existing rewards points from Security Bank to the preferred airline and buy the needed tickets you want. For international or domestic flights, partner airlines are accessible on the app), taught folks to also use it for hotel stays, had us watch Will Dasovich spend it like actual money to change his wardrobe, styled for a flight he's having in the afternoon. It was like using the points as convenient as cash. The #BetterBankingRewards is accessible through the Security Bank app or the website. Simply register and redeem rewards in over 100+ partner brands listed there. Whether you enjoy a day in a spa, flying, shopping, they've got lots of options for you to enjoy without spending a dime, just your points of course!

 

Rahul Rasal EVP and Retail Head of Security Bank says "Welcome to our partners, to Mastercard and Security Bank family. How many are married? Not Married? Do you believe in happy wife, happy life? A resounding Yes, but happy husband doesn't matter. I went on a vacation once, but had to call my bank to increase my limit, the kind person said it's okay, we can redeem your points to get you a room upgrade. That's when I felt the importance of rewards, you can do this on flights and hotels, and in a lot of merchants. We hope you too get a rewarding experience with Security Bank."

This doesn't only apply here, but internationally (so use your points and exchange them with other loyalty points smart!). You can also monitor your points spending in the same place. This convenience makes it a #BetterBankingRewards experience so if you apply for a Security Bank Credit Card today, you get to earn points like a pro. No wonder they've won awards for it! Head on to securitybank.com to know more.

BUM BLACK ARMY Takes Over Tenement

Taking on the huge task of revelry in the streets is BUM Black Army. Their utilitarian line has been put into one of the country's iconic basketball courts which has been a venue for grand murals forged by the locals and community. Previously, it has been a canvas for NBA superstars showcasing the Filipinos passion and individual stories. 

This is the same power that BUM Black Army wants to hold as folks from every walk of life wear their clothes. It's available at their site bumblackarmy.com or apps like Shopee, Lazada and TikTok. You may follow their FB page @officialbumph to know more about their movement. 

Take a look at this! 

World class, utilitarian, the coolest looking street wear in the market. That's BUM Black Army for you! 

The Grand Santacruzan at INTRAMUROS with The Runway Atelier

The Intramuros Administration, Department of Tourism, The Philippine Travel Agencies Association together with The Runway Atelier just held THE GRAND SANTACRUZAN at the Intramuros grounds today starting from Foro de Intramuros (in front of San Agustin Church) going to Puerto Real Gardens in Manila. 

The event was participated by Runway Atelier's models and artists, donning specially designed gowns to commemorate history and the Catholic faith. This is a yearly tradition for Filipinos to showcase its religious significance when Santa Elena tried to look for the holy cross. There will be models and escorts coming from The Runway Atelier participating in the procession, and it was so nice seeing them dressed in their gorgeous garbs and outfits, depicting iconic characters from scriptures. Last year (2024) THE GRAND SANTACRUZAN Reyna Elena was Karylle Tatlonghari and Rosa Mystica was her equally gorgeous Mom Zsazsa Padilla. 

Folks were at the venue as early as 3pm, and the crowd was a mix of foreign tourists, locals, people from the church, and relatives of those who were participating in the Santacruzan, They also walked around the Intramuros grounds and converged at the Puerta Real Gardens at the eastern part of the walled city. Faces did light up when they saw other participants, and it was so nice to see them wear their very detailed gowns, and suits for the consortes that evening. 

They gave special awards to Nazalea Vicera, Trixie Mariscotes. The Best Dressed Awards went to Marian Angeles, Anne Marie Tolentino, Criselle Ava Geronimo and Alynna Orfanel. Mr Photogenic Awards went to Ardie Matsada and Migs Casimiro. Ms Photogenic went to Zoe Shi and Lizzie Aguinaldo. The Crowd Favorite Award went to Rhianna Altos and Theodore Salgado. Mikael Collin also won Best Escort. Then they announced the Best in Arc Awards. 3rd Place went to Mikay Barruiz, 2nd Place was won by Alyanna Orphanel, and 1st Place went to Rhianna Alto and Theodore Salgado.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

Congratulations to all the winners and participants of this grand event. I heard there will be more things happening this month, make sure you follow The Runway Atelier social channels as they post events there regularly.