Still life

“Be still. Stillness reveals the secrets of eternity.” – Lao Tzu

In this age of advanced technology, constant movement, and endless noise, stillness is the ultimate luxury. Embracing stillness helps us reconnect with ourselves and find deeper meaning in our daily lives. Having time for solitude and reflection is a powerful antidote to feeling overwhelmed and restless. Modern life’s endless distractions keep us from being focused on our true life purpose.

Regular periods of quiet can transform ordinary experiences into lasting insights. True insight and happiness often come from carving out moments to sit still and reflect. The ability to slow down has been rare and precious, but thanks to my good friend Pinky Tobiano, I was able to relax and have some down time for yoga and much-needed spa therapy at The Farm at San Benito.

Hosted by Swiss Proli Natural, a proudly all-Filipino wellness company, the retreat brought together special guests for a transformative journey into wellness, self-care, and meaningful connection. The Farm at San Benito is a lush sanctuary perfect for this kind of healing. Together with other guests like Maxene Magalona, we were encouraged to ground ourselves, heal, and transform. Swiss Proli Natural is led by actress and entrepreneur Julia Montes (CEO), alongside visionary founders Pianne Sinfuego, Karrel Sinfuego, Juancho Robles, Mac Merla, and chemist Pinky Tobiano. The brand proudly collaborated with Swiss scientists to develop its line of science-based wellness products.

From left: Alfred Huang, father of the bride; Grace Huang, mother of the bride; Maybelle Huang-Tan, bride; Andrew Tan, groom; and Lin Tan, mother of the groom

From left: Lysandra Tan, Candice Tan, Melissa Dee, Erika Ty, Christina Huang, Armelie Go-Patalud, Krichelle Ching, Janine Gesalem, Maybelle Huang-Tan, Drew Tan, Antonio Tan, JC Genato, Hans Lim, Brian Huang, Erick Chua, Earl Keh, Jason Tan, Ron Lim, and Clement Huang

At the heart of the retreat was Swiss Proli Lean Quick—Apple Cider Vinegar gummies enriched with vitamin C, folic acid, and vitamin B12. This daily supplement is designed to support heart health, manage cholesterol, aid in fatty liver prevention, and assist with weight management.

At our special weekend, we were given Swiss Proli Night Gummies to promote better sleep, relaxation, and refreshed mornings. The new gummies combine natural, science-backed ingredients that help calm the mind and prepare the body for rest.

“As a chemist, I wanted every ingredient to work synergistically with the body’s natural rhythm,” shared Pinky. “Melatonin and adaptogens like ashwagandha, reishi, and Valerian root have been scientifically studied for their calming properties. Together, they ease the mind into balance for restorative sleep and fresher mornings.”

After months of taking Swiss Proli Lean Quick and Night Gummies, I feel healthier and refreshed, like I have more energy to attend all my events and gatherings. The latest was the heartfelt wedding ceremony of Drew Tan and Maybelle Huang-Tan.

A wedding that felt like home

The wedding of Drew and Maybelle was a beautiful celebration of love rediscovered and intentionally chosen. Set against a day that unfolded with quiet beauty and deep meaning, the couple was surrounded by family and friends who have walked closely with them through every chapter of their journey, especially the road that led them back to one another.

More than a celebration, the day felt like a homecoming. Every detail reflected purpose, gratitude, and reverence for the relationships that have shaped their lives. From the warmth of shared laughter to the tenderness of exchanged vows, the atmosphere was filled with love that felt both gentle and deeply rooted. The presence of loved ones who traveled from near and far served as a living testament to the community that carried and supported the couple through seasons of growth, waiting, and faith.

Each embrace, prayer, and well-wish added to a collective sense of thanksgiving for a love that endured time and circumstance. In a celebration marked by intention, Drew and Maybelle’s wedding day stood as a reminder that the most beautiful unions are those built on gratitude, grace, and the courage to begin again together.

Tessa Prieto arrives in Maserati’s Hybrid, the Ghibli

Sofia Andres and Daniel Miranda arrives in Maserati’s Supercar, the MC20

Dong Ronquillo, Irene Nubla, Sea Princess, and Melanie Tan

Starry Valentine’s

Love and compassion are powerful forces for change that could make a positive difference in one’s life.

I celebrated the weekend of Valentine’s Day with a very special and exciting experience with Maserati Philippines. The prestigious Italian car brand, headed here in the Philippines by Modena Motorsports, Inc. president Sam Verzosa, teamed up with Michelin Guide restaurants for an extraordinary journey through Manila.

Zooming through the streets of Manila in a fleet of Maseratis, we went on a multi-stop journey across the country’s Michelin-starred restaurants in Maserati Legacy Circle: A Michelin Journey.

The fleet of luxury cars featured the marque’s super car, the MC20; its first-ever SUV, the Levante; and their newest model, the Grecale. It also included Maserati’s first-ever electrified sedan, the Ghibli Hybrid. My partner Irene Nubla and I rode the Ghibli Hybrid for a truly elevated ride through the city.

Josh Boutwood, PJ Caña, Karmina De Ungria, Irene Nubla, Michael Tan, Dong Ronquillo, Tessa Prieto, Carry and Mark Gorriceta, Sam Verzosa, Kylie Verzosa, Sofia Andres, and Daniel Miranda

Atty. Mark Gorriceta and Carry Gorriceta

Dong Ronquillo, Maxene Magalona, Pinky Tobiano, Sea Princess, Rosan Cruz, and Bianca Manalo

As the fleet arrived at Kása Palma, conversations about the very best in automotives came in. The restaurant’s focus on culinary artistry on their modern takes on Filipino dishes echoed Maserati’s DNA of providing modern design through their luxury automotive craftsmanship. Among those who joined conversations included Daniel Miranda, who drove Maserati’s supercar, the MC20, together with Sofia Andres; Sola founder & beauty queen Kylie Verzosa; Elba owner Michael Tan, together with his wife, vice president for Sterling Bank of Asia, Melanie Tan; and Esquire editor in chief PJ Caña, and Happily Ever Marketing founder Karmina De Ungria—who all rode the Maserati’s latest model, the Grecale. Maserati’s first-ever SUV, the Levante, was driven by Atty. Mark Gorriceta who was joined by his wife, Carry Gorriceta.

At our final stop, the fleet arrived at the 11th street of Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, lining the street with Maseratis. For desserts and cocktails, Gallery by Chele was the destination. With the emblematic trident atop Gallery’s Coco Loco and Petit Four, a toast was in order. Sam closed the night with thanks and fervor for continuing the marque’s strive for craftsmanship, performance, design, and innovation.

In between all these exciting events and new beginnings, it still remains vital to our own personal wellness to find moments of stillness and calm. The name of the game is balance! Filling our time with new experiences and connections is good, but remember that, at the end of the day, we must always return to ourselves.