Fearless in 2024
Instead of making New Year’s resolutions, I prefer to think of a good phrase or word that could guide me through the year. Choosing doesn’t come easy since there’s so much to choose from, but the words “gratitude, persistence, letting go” kept bouncing back. Finally, I settled on this word: fearless.
In light of what the world is going through, with its economic uncertainties coupled with the social, cultural and political upheavals, trepidation and fear are natural feelings. Sometimes, staying home and curling up in bed is much better. But life isn’t meant to be lived that way. So, I have etched in my heart that 2024 will be a year of not being afraid of what the future will hold. There is undoubtedly a Godly force that has guided us and will continually do so. In my case, I know that He has taken me this far and will continue until the end.
We all need to focus on that more and dim out the noise, negativity, hatred, etc. That doesn’t mean one is oblivious or doesn’t care about what’s happening around us, but it’s far more important for our mental state and soul not to be afraid and trust that God has everything in control.
At the centre of this first issue of 2024 is a man whose career spans almost three decades and who celebrates his birthday this month. An icon of showbiz for his good looks, acting prowess and gentlemanliness, Piolo Pascual is this generation’s true male superstar, one whose career and stardom no one of his generation has attained. Most of his contemporaries have flown the coop or retired, but his star keeps shining ever so brightly.
In this spellbinding photo shoot, the creative photography genius BJ Pascual (no relation) was inspired by Francis Bacon’s paintings. BJ collaborated with set designer Princess Barretto to develop a spectacular design. The result was beyond stunning. It was so good that we had to give the feature more pages than usual.
We hope that Piolo keeps inspiring and reaching the goals he set. May he remain a beacon of light for the entertainment industry and other sectors of society.
In this issue, we also have 20 pages on the recently concluded Tatler Ball, where we raised more than 17 million pesos for Project Inclusion Network. We awarded three individuals who have made a tremendous earmark in society: Maria Ressa, Kenneth Cobonpue and Dolly de Leon. We also highlight the Asia Tatler Ball, graced by David Beckham and significant influencers in the region, including our very own Small Laude, accompanied by her hubby, Philip.
We have compelling articles you can’t miss, from the Ramon Magsaysay Awards, the country’s rise as a hub for in vitro fertilisation, and the return of grand weddings to Kara Alikpala’s Emmy-nominated film on illegal logging.
So, we are off to a great start! We want to maintain the same excellence Tatler is known for and raise this bar this year.
We earnestly hope and pray that 2024 will be a year when the country will truly shine in all socio-economic sectors, not just for some but for all.
Happy New Year! Be fearless and always keep the faith.