Congratulations to 30 year of SSI @ssilifeph To our Lola Glecy to Tita Merl to Tita Nedy and Anton @antonhuang111 Thank you #PASSIONFORWARD #ssilife #ssigroupinc#h2hssi #h2hcelebrations
CURATING WITH PASSION
SSI celebrates 30 years with the country’s most #PassionForward
Passion has been the driving force of Stores Specialists, Inc. (SSI) Group, the leading luxury retailer in the Philippines. For 30 years, the company has tirelessly worked on bringing the best of lifestyle to the country through its curated selection of brands from all over the world. From being a retail company, SSI has evolved into a tastemaker and curator for Filipinos—a multi-faceted provider of diverse merchandise reaching a broader market and influencing the lifestyles and preferences of the many.
As it celebrates a new milestone, SSI has launched the “The Curated Life” campaign earlier this year; with the aim to inspire, enable, indulge, and rally its consumers to pursue a life well-lived. More than just a campaign, The Curated Life is anchored on passion in particular, for living to the fullest and striving only for the best.
SSI moves forward and elevates the definition of enhancing lives as the company brings together over 30 individuals—diverse purveyors from various industries—who continue to share in their vision, those who live the curated life as well as champion it through creativity, ingenuity, and commitment to their craft. Whether it be in advocacy, art, business, design, fashion, lifestyle, or social enterprise, these individuals put their passions forward and inspire today’s generation in ways that exceed expectations, always pushing boundaries and elevating the Filipino lifestyle to a class of its own.
To capture the essence of the company’s mission through its #PassionForward campaign and featured personalities—who just like SSI are forging new paths to the curated life—SSI has collaborated with renowned author and lifestyle journalist, AA Patawaran, who shared his literary prowess to tell the story of passions.
In his essay, AA quips, “Beyond retail, the specialty stores opened up a universe of possibilities not only to shoppers but also to passersby who, even without any intention of buying, might have had the impression that here, under our little patch of sky, the whole wide world was suddenly within reach.”
He adds, “What unites all the varying specialty and lifestyle concepts under the SSI Group is their ability to elevate taste, amplify desire, awaken aspiration, and empower the drive for self-actualization.”
The launch of the #PassionForward campaign will also showcase a photo exhibit by recognized industry photographers Mark Nicdao, Kai Huang, and Cyrus Panganiban, together with photographer hobbyists Kyla Olives, and film director Paul Soriano.
Putting passions forward has been an SSI advocacy through the years, and it continues in this tradition by maintaining partnerships with industry leaders and trendsetters who shape the Filipino style and lifestyle for the better, including showcasing new talents who are driven by passion, whether for service, community, fashion, business, or the arts. With #PassionForward, SSI champions The Curated Life by inspiring every Filipino to choose well, be better, and live a life well-lived—a life that’s well-curated.
In the words of AA Patawaran, “This year, the SSI Group celebrates thirty years of knowing what matters to the Filipino consumer, thirty years of curating life of passion for the Filipino. It invites you to celebrate the milestone by living your very own curated life.” He adds, “It’s making life better and better still by rallying more of us to put our passions forward and to curate our every moment with the things and the thoughts that will bring to us the best life we can imagine.”
#PASSIONFORWARD PERSONALITIES
Mariana Zobel de Ayala, Deputy Head, Ayala Malls
For Mariana, Deputy Head of Ayala Malls, the mall is more than just a place to shop and eat. It’s a shared space for experiences. Whether it’s excitement, wonder, amazement, happiness or relief, malls are special to Filipinos because it’s here where memories are made. “Our hope is to be a home for both every day and milestone moments for the Filipino – a breath of payday fresh air during a busy week, bonding time over a birthday or graduation celebration, or an easy stop during a busy commute – a place for both special memories and everyday relief,” says Mariana.
Senator Sonny Angara, Senator of the Republic of the Philippines and Tootsy Angara, Cluster Head for Sales, ABS-CBN Network
Through their work in public service and media as one and individually, they are able to pursue their advocacies centered on uplifting the lives of the Filipino people and fighting for the common good. “I think everyone can make a difference, especially in this day and age when voices can be heard. Now a tweet by a non-famous person can go viral if it touches a nerve. So I think people should have their own advocacies, be passionate about what they believe in, and make a stand,” says Sen. Angara.
Tootsy shares, “Be brave enough to care. A negative post can double depression, while a positive post can spread good vibes online. So try as much as possible to be a positive influence when you speak, when you write, and when you act. I think we can make a difference in our own little way.”
Nicole Andersson, Lifestyle and Travel Blogger
As a lifestyle and travel blogger, Nicole has found a platform to voice her thoughts. Through her digital presence, she aims to only spread positivity. “Style can inspire a generation because it helps you find your true self. Your sense of style is what makes you unique; it helps you stand out from other people.”
JP Anglo, Chef
Chef JP Anglo never backs down from a challenge, especially when it comes to satiating big appetites and exciting the palates of gourmands and foodies alike. Through his restaurants such as Mu Shu, Mai Po, and Sarsa, Anglo brings new fire and fervor to modern Asian cuisine. “What drives my success in the industry is commitment and passion,” says JP. “If you have passion, no matter the challenges, you’ll love going through them. And if you’re committed to a goal, you’ll always find the way to achieve it.” JP’s goal is to encourage Filipino chefs to make things from scratch: “The reward is far greater and the flavor, way better.”
Dindin Araneta, Lisa Periquet, and Trickie Lopa, Founders, Art Fair Philippines
Having founded Art Fair Philippines, Dindin, Lisa, and Trickie continue to serve an important role altogether pioneering the best in modern and contemporary Philippine visual art. Dindin shares, “Art moves forward in time, because it reflects change. Artists can be inspired or influenced by ideas, thoughts, or forms of the past. But by nature, they innovate, break rules, and find ways to express themselves in a contemporary setting, bringing about new perspectives and sensibilities.”
While for Lisa, “How can art not be a good thing? Art feeds the soul, it enriches life. For some, it is life itself. It is also a tool. Art helps one see the world in new ways. It feeds intellectual curiosity and satisfies aesthetic wants and needs.”
“As influential global art superstar Olafur Elliasson said, ‘You don’t step inside an art museum to escape the real world but to look even more closely at the real world.’ Artists can’t help but react to what they are confronted with. They are influenced by their histories, their upbringing, their milieu. And they bring this out in their work,” says Trickie.
Armie Jarin-Bennett, Nine Media Corporation/CNN Philippines President
As the President of Nine Media Corporation/CNN Philippines, Armie takes a stand and leads one of the biggest news agencies in the country with a firm hand committed to empowering the public with real, timely, and accurate information. “I’m really very passionate. When you’re passionate in what it is that you do, you can do the job well. Passion is what drives you to think outside the box. That passion allows for you to stay focused and be the best that you can possibly be in whatever career you’re in,” says Armie. Bennett’s passion stems from her sense of duty: “I always think of the people I serve. They drive me to do my job well. My motivation really is to make sure that my audience is able to receive the critical and very important information that can change and affect their daily lives.”
Mia Borromeo, Home and Travel Magazine Editor
With her keen eye and discerning taste, Home and Travel Magazine Editor Mia Borromeo helps aspiring individuals learn the art of transforming a house into a home. “I don’t think there are any hard and fast rules when it comes to curating or editing. Taste is really very personal and subjective. There is truth to the saying that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” says Mia. “What one considers “good taste” can vary from person to person and, even from one culture to another. Personally, I appreciate design that radiates understated elegance and simple luxury.”
Kenneth Cobonpue, Industrial Designer
World-renowned industrial designer Kenneth Cobonpue brings Filipino artistry and ingenuity to the global fore through his designs that are both whimsical and groundbreaking. “I love to take the materials I’ve selected and just experiment with them, almost like a couturier with fabric,” says Kenneth. “The handmade process we employ brings about a unique quality to each design. The materials we use have always been around, but it’s the way we use them that makes our pieces different.”
Stephanie Zubiri Crespi, Author of Feast With Me, Travel, Food, and Lifestyle Journalist
Whether it be through the meals one creates and partakes of, or the exciting adventures one heads to, author and travel, food and lifestyle journalist Stephanie Zubiri Crespi inspires all to live a fuller life. “I think the Philippines has so much to offer in terms of creativity and craftsmanship. The biggest challenge for the local industry now is how to avoid doing the same thing every year and to avoid copying each other. What tends to happen is if there’s a trend, everyone will follow. I think we need to encourage our designers to really open up and think outside of the box,” says Steph.
Ernest Cu, President and CEO, Globe Telecom
Multi-awarded Globe Telecom President and CEO Ernest Cu remains to be one of the most powerful telecommunication executives in the world due to his firm yet flexible leadership and inspiring vision. “As a leader, I won’t make a decision for you, because that disfranchises you and it moves the accountability from that person to myself,” says Ernest. “The person who has the project should own that decision and be responsible for its outcome. My job is to empower that individual and provide the support needed.”
Sofia Zobel Elizalde, Founder and Managing Director, STEPS Dance Studio
Sofia Zobel Elizalde, Founder and Director of Steps Dance Studio and Steps Dance Project, aims to celebrate the history of Filipino dance, while promoting and shaping its exciting future. “Dance is definitely part of our heritage. We have so many beautiful dances from the Philippines that really speak of who we are as Filipinos,” says Sofia. “I’ve always felt that Filipino dancers are unique. Filipinos move in a very specific way, and they put so much soul into their movement. When you watch a Filipino dance, there is a deep emotion and elegance that has you entranced. They capture you because they dance from the soul.”
Aryanna Epperson, Creative Director, Always Sunday
Creative director Aryanna Epperson believes in the philosophy of simplicity and advocates self-love and self-care through her fledgling beauty brand, Always Sunday. “There is this misconception that liking makeup or skincare is shallow and vain, but I think makeup and beauty are just so empowering,” says Aryanna. “Self-care is so important. We give all this love to others, but we must not forget to love ourselves first — so why not start with a good beauty routine?” With beauty as her passion, her mission is to empower Filipinas by simplifying it and keeping it fun and accessible to all.
Heart Evangelista-Escudero, Artist
From showbiz sweetheart to international style icon and artist, Heart Evangelista-Escudero is ever-evolving and has become the new face of the modern woman — one who is empowered, outspoken and confident in exploring her creative genius. “Fashion inspires people. I am inspired when I see an amazing individual dressed up like she doesn’t care about the world,” says Heart. “That’s what I love about fashion: it’s women inspiring other women to feel good about themselves. That’s already a purpose — to inspire other people to be comfortable with the way they look and dressing up the way they want to dress up. It’s a simple movement; it’s inspiring people to feel good.”
Irene Martel Francisco, Managing Director, Philippine Tatler
As managing director of the Philippine Tatler, Irene Martel Francisco ensures that she keeps readers abreast of the global movements in luxury lifestyle. “I think luxury continues to retain its appeal, though its definition has evolved,” says Irene. “It used to be perceived as only the most-costly items are luxurious, but now it is more fluid. Luxury can also mean allowing us the time to enjoy these products and services.”
Tricia Gosingtian-Gabunada, Blogging Pioneer
A pioneer in the blogging community, Tricia has not only become a style purveyor, but also one of the most influential figures in the digital sphere. Her passion for fashion stems from the belief that it is transformative. “I love supporting brands with strong convictions and empowering messages, because fashion is transformative,” says Tricia. “I treat it like a shield, something that makes me feel stronger and more confident, and something that can protect me from negativity. We buy clothes that fit our daily life; a day’s mood can change depending on what we wear. We are able to make such decisions, because we are who we are, and fashion helps us in expressing that.”
Angelo Laririt, Founder and Administrator, Potter’s Place School, El Nido
Mariglo Laririt, Director of Sustainability, Ten Knots Development Corporation
Angelo believes that promoting a more conscientious lifestyle begins with education. Through his school, he helps nurture a new generation of good stewards. He says, “What difference do we want to make and what are we willing to give and give up? These are questions that people at different stages in life may ask themselves, and the answers will help determine the choices we make.” While living a lifestyle that is in line with his values, he espouses his passion and advocacy of providing education to the youth. “Strive for excellence and authenticity in everything that you do, and people will start ‘listening’ to your life.”
A staunch advocate of sustainability, Mariglo has built retreats and communities that espouse the values of living green. As Director of Sustainability of Ten Knots Development Corporation, she inspires others to embrace a more conscientious way of living. “Small pebbles of habits can contribute to big ripples of change,” says Mariglo. “The natural environment is a shared resource — most people want to extract value, but how many want to give back?”
Royal Pineda, BUDJI+ROYAL Architecture+Design Principal Architect+CEO
Budji Layug, BUDJI+ROYAL Architecture+Design Principal Designer+Chairman
Royal Pineda and Budji Layug of BUDJI+ROYAL Architecture+Design are a dynamic duo, known for their innovative green designs that use natural, sustainable materials weaved into a modern aesthetic. Today, the two go beyond designing home spaces and are taking on a dream project: building a modern city, beginning with the Clark International Airport. As their passion for design is evident in their craft, both believe in the transformative power of good design, and how, it can be a gateway to the world. “The Philippine design aesthetic can definitely grow in prominence, especially since our design is very natural – from the materials we use to the cultural influences that take shape in our spaces. It also reflects our personality as a people. We are very welcoming and open and that’s interpreted in the very spaces we occupy, and how we live,” says Budji. As for Royal, he believes that “inspired design should always be a take-off for betterment. Sometimes, “inspired design” becomes a glorified term for copying a design.” He adds, “For us, inspired design is about building from a particular inspiration and creating a better product. There always has to be that element of championing to make something better. It’s an evolution from the previous inspiration.”
Krie Lopez, Founder and CEO, Messy Bessy
Krie Lopez, Founder and CEO of Messy Bessy, believes that businesses can thrive not only with the drive of profitability, but also of compassion. With Messy Bessy, Lopez employs at risk youth and shows other enterprises how meaningful change can be achieved through an inclusive business model. “With Messy Bessy and our products, we look at promoting a green lifestyle as the right thing versus as just another marketing strategy,” says Krie. “It’s the intrinsic goal when it comes to our products: to create value and enable others to lead greener, more conscientious lifestyles.” She adds, “Messy Bessy is really trying to encourage other businesses to do what we’re doing, which is to take in young adults into the work force. The biggest way we can encourage change is by setting the example and inspiring others to follow suit.”
Millet Mananquil, Lifestyle Editor, Philippine Star
An enduring force in lifestyle publishing, Millet Mananquil has been helping create and curate stories for decades as the lifestyle editor of the Philippine Star. With her boundless knowledge on all things lifestyle, Mananquil is a curator and trendsetter in a league of her own. Her journalist roots and acute sense of fashion combined allow her to create stories that are at once relatable and inspiring. She says, “Discerning readers can tell between mere hype and real stories. True journalism begins with the search for truth.” And when it comes to fashion, she tells it like it is: “I got a nice black cotton T-shirt from Zara with pink feathers on the hem. For me, it is a metaphor for how the lifestyle market has evolved.”
Lesley Mobo, Fashion Designer
Globally acclaimed fashion designer Lesley Mobo is no longer simply thinking about what’s in store for his next collection or runway show; he’s thinking of how to inspire a new breed of designers — those who are brave enough to be original and who seek innovation in their craft. “Fashion shapes culture. It’s a two-way mirror, everything in fashion is a reflection of what is happening around us,” says Lesley. “And it can also be a barometer of cultural movement and cultural changes.” Believing that divergent thinking is part of everyday life, he is passionate about bringing out the creative potential in individuals by mastering his own craft.
Joel Palma, WWF-Philippines President and CEO
Joel Palma, President and CEO of WWF Philippines, is a passionate advocate who not only encourages the people to protect the environment, but invites them to fight for their own causes. “Some things that I enjoyed in my childhood are now novelties for my kids to enjoy, so we should really think about the future of our kids,” says Joel. “If we’re looking for a reason to act now, there’s no better drive than thinking about what we will leave behind for our kids and the future generations. We must give them a better environment.”
Secretary Berna Romulo Puyat, Department of Tourism
After serving as the Undersecretary of the Department of Agriculture, Bernadette Romulo Puyat is taking the reigns as the Secretary of Tourism, breathing new energy and re-instilling trust and credibility into the department with her fresh brand of leadership. She says, “When someone asked me if my dream was to become the DA Secretary, I said ‘No.’ In fact, my answer was, I think the cabinet member that has the best job is the DOT Secretary, because it’s so easy to sell the country.” As fate would have it, she now has the best job in the cabinet, albeit not the easiest one. Five months into her term, she is optimistic about the job and the country. “It’s tiring, but it’s just so nice to get to promote our country. I really love what I’m doing.” She adds, “If you love what you’re doing, you’re going to be passionate about it.”
Bruce Ricketts, Chef
One of Manila’s brightest chefs, Bruce Ricketts is a force to be reckoned with in the culinary world, having brought us new and exciting dining concepts such as Ooma, La Chinesca and Sensei Sushi, among others. He attributes his success to learning from mistakes, and his passion from purpose. “The mentality of success is realizing that taking that fall is not as heavy as it seems as you can always bounce back,” says Bruce. “There is so much more to learn about my industry every day and that’s what keeps me going. Passion and purpose come hand-in-hand. Purpose becomes easier to fulfill if you’re passionate about what you do.”
Thelma Sioson San Juan, Lifestyle Editor, Philippine Daily Inquirer
Thelma San Juan, the lifestyle editor of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, is an institution and authority, revered by many in the industry. As head of the lifestyle section, she helps shape public opinion and empowers readers with stories and information of relevance. With the fast-changing media landscape, she is passionate about the two forces that drive readership: consumers and content. She says, “It’s not technology, but content that is the game-changer today and the future (of news). So, as a publication, we have to craft, select, and deliver the content that the consumer, the end-user, and the brand can use. It all depends on the story that you have.”
Paulina Luz Sotto, Visual Artist
Paulina Luz Sotto comes from a distinguished family of artists, with no less than National Artist Arturo Luz as her grandfather. But she is confidently standing out on her own as an equally talented young artist with numerous solo exhibits to her name. She says, “Young artists now are just as passionate as those from previous generations. But it’s better for artists now because they have more opportunities. They have more avenues to really share what they make.”
Kevin L. Tan, CEO, Alliance Global Inc.
According to Kevin Tan, CEO of Alliance Global Inc., he’s not in the business of building malls and condos, but in shaping communities and lifestyles. With every new development and project that he leads, Tan aims to create a lasting impact. “My father taught us the value of hard work, integrity, humility and compassion for those who have less in life — and these are the very values we espouse in the company.” His passion? Transforming lives. “The core of our business is improving lives, creating value and transforming places. We aim to do this by giving people access to more comfortable and convenient lifestyles.”
Steven Tan, Chief Operating Officer, SM Supermalls
In a country driven greatly by mall culture, Steven Tan, has found the secret to competitive success – innovation. As COO of SM Supermalls, he encourages out-of-the-box thinking and is driven to provide patrons new, fresh and exciting experiences to be enjoyed at the mall. He says, “I have always felt strongly about innovation. In the fast-paced world of retail, you need to chase the new and the improved. In SM Supermalls, we carry a strong innovation mindset. It’s our credo to innovate to create a better tomorrow.” As the driving force behind SM Supermalls, he imparts his passion for innovation every day, by being both a role model and an enabler. He adds, “I firmly believe that when people work together with a common goal and understanding, it leads to excellence.”
Happy Ongpauco Tiu, Founder, Happy Concept Group
The culinary mastermind behind the Happy Concept Group, Happy aims to excite the Filipino palate with dishes that elevate traditional Pinoy flavors. She says, “It’s human nature that if we’re not happy with what we’re doing, we just move on. We don’t dwell; we don’t stay. So aside from loving what you do, time is essential to success or else you won’t last.”
Rissa Mananquil Trillo, Co-Founder and Chief Brand Officer, Happy Skin
Through her homegrown cosmetics brand, Happy Skin Co-Founder and Chief Brand Officer Rissa Mananquil Trillo is inspiring Filipina women to embrace their natural beauty by providing the tools and palettes that allow them to be happy and confident in their own skin. “I believe beauty today means being authentic—it means knowing who you are and sticking to it, even when the going gets tough,” says Rissa. “In a world that’s always encouraging division and negativity, it means being able to choose the right values, like kindness, honesty, and sacrificing for others — even in simple, small ways. But living in an era of 24/7 communication, there has never been a time where authenticity has been valued the way it is now. It is not enough to just look beautiful—who you are on the inside must also reflect the same kind of beauty — as it should be.”
Annette Gozon Valdes, President, GMA Films and GMA Worldwide
Annette Gozon Valdes, President of GMA Films and GMA Worldwide, continually seeks new ways to create engaging and innovative content, helping elevate local entertainment while ensuring that all audiences and markets are addressed. She says, “There are always basic things that people want, for example, food. We’ve always needed food, but of course, you have to innovate. You have to improve and give people something more. The same is true with content.”
It is in this spirit of innovation that her passion shines. “When you’re passionate about something, it will translate into the details. It’s because you try to push yourself more. Though passion is all-consuming, the good thing about it is it’s also inexhaustible. You’ll never tire of pushing yourself to the limit.”
Tessa Prieto Valdes, Style Purveyor
Host, columnist, and a style purveyor, Tessa Prieto-Valdes is truly one who inspires all to live big and without regrets. “Does style define a person? Yes and no. I think style helps to highlight your personality and give you the best first impression, but it will not define who you are. Your character will,” says Tessa. As one of the Philippines’ most enduring fashion icons, she continues to inspire with her bold sense of style. She adds, “For me, fashion is an expression of happiness. I have an eccentric style and people say that I’m the only one who can get away with wearing these things and I don’t mind. Your fashion is a reflection of who you are; it’s a statement you make to the world.”
Paloma Urquijo Zobel, Founder and Creative Director, PIOPIO
As Founder and Creative Director of PIOPIO, Paloma Urquijo Zobel aims to not only celebrate Filipino artistry, craftsmanship, and heritage, but also to protect it. She says, “I founded PIOPIO with the hopes of shining a light and bringing these textiles to the forefront. Similarly, Kalye Artisano is aimed at empowering the trade of local craftsmanship, while preserving and highlighting local identity.” Passionate about the arts, she believes that they are the keepers of our history and identity. She adds, “I hope that through our arts, we can help keep a sense of who we are and who we came from as we move forward.”
Visit www.ssilife.com.ph or follow @ssilifeph on Instagram for information.
About SSI Group, Inc:
SSI Group, Inc. is the leading specialty retailer in the Philippines with an extensive portfolio of established international brands that caters to all aspects of a quality lifestyle and is supported by a nationwide strategic retail presence. Leading the Philippine specialist retail market in terms of the size and breadth of its international brand portfolio and store footprint, SSI Group Inc. has also expanded its retail format offerings with its entry into e-commerce, unique restaurant concepts such as TWG and SaladStop!, and mall developments such as the premiere lifestyle destination Central Square.
SSI Group, 30 Years of the Curated Life
On its 30th year, the SSI Group partners with one of the world’s leading banks, Citibank, to bring the Curated Life to every Filipino with rewarding shopping experiences and perks. With a retail network of over 600 stores and various retail format offerings, the SSI Group continues to make an impact on the lifestyle values of its consumers, by inspiring, enabling, indulging, and rallying them to live a life well-lived—a life that’s well-curated.
