VP 2019-07 DARREN ESPANTO DIGITAL

VP/SPOTLIGHT 

YONG MUHAJIL: 

DIGITAL PRINCE 

BY JANVIN BRUA 

VP/TRAVEL 

NEW CAMIGUIN 

TOURISM AD SHOWS 

HOW STUDENTS CAN 

MAKE THE MOST OF 

THEIR FREE TIME 

BY NIKKI MENESES 

VP/LIFESTYLE 

SHARP PHILIPPINES 

LAUNCHES 

REVOLUTIONARY 

SOLUTIONS FOR A 

BETTER LIFE! 

VP/FASHION 

BREAKING BOUNDARIES 

OF GENDERED STYLE 

BY SHAWN KLIFF SACAL 

TRAVEL• LIFESTYLE• ENTERTAINMENT 

www.villagepipol.com | 1

VP/EDITORIAL 

VP 

EDITORIAL 

EVOLUTION 

RED ENTERTAINMENT, INC., THE COMPANY THAT PUBLISHED THE 1 ST 

RED ENTERTAINMENT, INC., THE COMPANY THAT PUBLISHED THE 1 ST 

FREE ONLINE AND PRINTED NEWS MAGAZINE IN THE PHILIPPINES, 

VILLAGE PIPOL, WAS ESTABLISHED ON OCTOBER 2007. #CHEERS! 

Generation Z is driven and optimistic. They embrace diversity and equality 

in gender, race, and religion — making them the generation of open hearts 

and unprejudiced minds. The rise of Gen Z is evident and the society is slowly 

interpreting their distinctive characteristics: independent, confident, and 

passionate. 

Aside from being technology advanced and internet-savvy, Gen Zers can offer 

something bigger to society. With their ability to learn fast and their deep 

understanding of what is happening to the world, the possibility of changing the 

world is realizable. We, as the older generation, have this responsibility to guide 

them and to bring out the best in them. Through our wisdom, let’s pave the way for 

them. 

This July 2019, we are proud to feature two of the most promising stars of this 

generation. Total performer Darren Espanto graced our cover, sharing his journey 

to stardom. The 18-year-old singer-actor entered the industry with genuine 

enthusiasm, which evolved into a passionate drive to do more. 

Meanwhile, VP/Spotlight highlights Yong Muhajil, a young passionate man who 

is now making his own name in the vlogging industry. With his determination 

to succeed and his humility, Yong surely knows where he is going. He may not 

be perfect but he is natural—he speaks with sincerity, and that alone made him 

unforgettable. A good character makes a great man and he is a perfect example, no 

doubt. 

Grab your July 2019 issue now. 

“Innovation is change that unlocks new value” 

Village Pipol – The Evolution of Advertising! 

Richie de Quina 

PUBLISHER 

#VPTEAM 

PUBLISHER 

RICHIE DE QUIÑA 

GWYNN CRISOSTOMO 

MANAGING EDITOR 

JOHN LUKE CHICA 

PR & MARKETING MANAGER 

JOSH AUSTRIA 

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 

JIM REYNOLD ZAMORA 

DIGITAL MANAGER PHILIP ANDAYA 

DIGITAL LAYOUT MANAGER ARTIST FRAME PHILIP ANDAYA RIVAS 

EDITORIAL LAYOUT ASSISTANTS ARTISTS LARA FRAME TOLDANES RIVAS 

JANVIN ZISA BLANCA BRUA 

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS LARA TOLDANES 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS LORD JANVIN HARVEY BRUA MONTEROSO 

ANGELA GRACE BALTAN BALTAN 

JEZREL SANTILLAN 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS HYACINTH SHAWN KLIFF LUDIVICO SACAL 

SHAWN NIKKI MENESES KLIFF SACAL 

PHOTOGRAPHERS DOOKIE GIO MARASIGAN DUCAY 

KENNETH WIL JOLINDON TANGONAN 

RAPHAEL RXANDY CAPINPIN YU 

VIDEOGRAPHERS RAYMOND JASPER LAWAN CABALHIN 

JIMMY DONNA CRUZ REY 

MAKE-UP ART DIRECTOR ARTISTS ANTHEA JOBO NACPIL BUENO 

MAKE-UP ARTISTS JANELL MABETH CAPUCHINO 

CONCEPCION 

APRIL JANELL IBAÑEZ CAPUCHINO 

STYLISTS VAN RODEL MERCADO BRIÑAS 

JANNO ARNEL ZULIETA STYLES 

HAIR STYLISTS MYCKE BENJ BARUS ARCANO LEDESMA III 

HAIR STYLIST JAYMAR MYCKE ARCANO LAHAYLAHAY 

RON VEGAROS 

RED Entertainment, Inc. 

Unit 419 & 420 One Oasis Hub B Building M, 

Ortigas Ext. Ave., Brgy. Sta. Lucia, Pasig City 1600 

For Inquiries: 

(02) 218-8683 | 0917-844-5981 

info@villagepipol.com 

info.villagepipol@gmail.com 

www.villagepipol.com 

MEDIA PARTNER 

A PART OF RED ENTERTAINMENT, INC. 

2 | VILLAGE PIPOL MNP @villagepipol



VP/TRAVEL 

In partnership with Skyjet Airlines, Nathaniel Castro Productions 

produced an advertisement entitled “Hanggang Saan Ka Kayang 

Dalhin ng Free Time mo?” that featured the new direct flight 

that now connects Manila and Camiguin—an island province 

located in Bohol Sea that is part of the Northern Mindanao 

Region. 

The island’s peaceful atmosphere, its untouched environment, 

and its relatively ideal size for exploration make it the perfect 

vacation spot for tourists who want the perfect getaway from 

the stresses of reality, or for those who simply want to get 

adventurous and explore the island’s beauty. And for the first 

time after years, travel time to the mentioned vacation spot in 

the Philippines is finally made shorter. Thanks to the new direct 

flight line, vacationers wanting to get a taste of Camiguin no 

longer have to worry about the long hours of travel when they 

consider travelling there. 

NEW CAMIGUIN 

TOURISM AD 

SHOWS HOW STUDENTS CAN 

MAKE THE MOST OF THEIR 

FREE TIME 

By Nikki Meneses 

Going back to the different social media 

trends that went viral, one would likely 

recall the famous challenge where 

students made the most out of their 

vacant period by going to different 

vacation spots such as beaches, resorts, 

and other places. Many others joined the 

bandwagon and did their best to be extra 

with their posts, going as far as stepping 

up the social media challenge by taking 

social media-worthy photos abroad, still 

proudly sporting their school uniforms. 

This eventually became the inspiration 

for the storyboard of the airline's new 

advertisement, making it the ultimate 

#squadgoals for every barkada out there 

wanting to spend their free time together. 

In addition, the video was patterned to 

the mentioned social media trend to show 

how quick it is now for tourists to reach 

the beloved travel destination, making 

it easy even for students to utilize their 

vacant period in visiting Camiguin. 

Despite the limited people and resources 

available for shooting the video, the 

production team behind the airline’s new 

advertisement still managed to make the 

shoot as creative as possible. Nathaniel 

Castro is the owner and founder of the 

stated film production. During the shoot, 

he was the director, drone operator, 

storyboard creator, and the cameraman, 

all-in-one for the production team. The 

rest of the production team members also 

lent a hand in the creation of this famous 

advertisement. They became the actors 

for the two-day shoot, showcasing some 

of the breathtaking locations in Camiguin. 


The viral advertisement is now Skyjet 

Airline’s most viewed video, with over 

488,000 views on Facebook and over 

144,000 views on Youtube, and has 

been garnering positive comments 

and reactions from netizens. Last 

2017, another Camiguin Tourism 

Advertisement had also gone viral 

after viewers were touched with 

the video’s story of a chatty tourist, 

whose journey was led by a mute 

tourist guide. 

SOME OF THE BREATHTAKING PLACES 

FEATURED IN THE NEW CAMIGUIN 

TOURISM ADVERTISEMENT! 

Nathaniel Castro Productions, 

the brainchild behind the famous 

advertisement, is a start-up film 

production specializing in same 

day edit, slide show creation, 

documentaries & other professional 

services. As a production team full 

of millennials with the passion and 

fire to stand out, Nathaniel Castro 

Productions envisions to be more 

adventurous and creative while also 

showcasing the strong millennial spirit 

in all of its crafts. 

Nathaniel Castro Productions would 

also like to formally give thanks to Sto. 

Nino National High School Paranaque 

for its participation in shooting the 

Skyjet Airlines Camiguin Tourism 

advertisement 



NOVEL DERMATOLOGY & 

COSMETIC SURGICENTER 

IS THE FUTURE OF BEAUTY 

BY JANVIN BRUA 

There is more than a love story when a Dermatologist marries a Cosmetic Surgeon 

and eventually joined forces for the love of beauty and wellness. Novel Dermatology & 

Cosmetic Surgicenter will prove that you can achieve your desired results with the care 

of two loving professional beauty doctors! 

History and branches 

Dermatologist Dra. Ma. Christina L. Tanciangco-Javier already made her 

name in the industry almost 2 decades ago. In 2002, she already started 

with her first clinic Tanciangco’s Derm-Med Center after her dermatology 

residency training. After treating patients with skin diseases in her 

hometown, she then married Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Julio P. Javier II in 2003. 

Dr. Javier’s hometown, Las Piñas City, is where they opened their second 

branch with a bigger and improved facility. Finally in 2010, Dr. finished his 

training in General Cosmetic Surgery. That sparkled the evolution of their 

clinic into Novel Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgicenter. For those of you 

who are wondering, Növel came from a Hungarian word which means 

enhance. This is because both doctors believed that each and every human 

being possess their own version of beauty. 

Last July 2016, they officially started penetrating the business capital of the 

Philippines, Makati City. They became easily accessible now to their clients 

here in the Metro. 

Your face and body can be as good as new once you got the chance to 

experience the Novel touch. The married doctors will make sure that you will 

not spend too much on what services and products you deserve. 

“You don’t want to change anything. You want to be 

beautiful na unique” 

Their clinics specializes Surgical and Non- 

Surgical Cosmetic and Dermatological Services. 

Dra. Javier will take care of your hair, skin, and 

nails and all other Non-Surgical Dermatological 

Services. They have the common services like 

Wart Removal, Diamond Peel, Photo-Acne Facial, 

etc. To know more about their dermatological 

services, you can check it here! 

While Dr. Javier makes sure Cosmetic Surgery 

will run as smooth sailing as possible. If you're 

planning to schedule an appointment for a 

surgical enhancement, then check this full list of 

their cosmetic surgery offerings here! 

They also specializes in non-invasive facial 

rejuvenation. For those of you who are not familiar 

with this term, it is a treatment where you don't 

need to undergo surgery just to achieve surgical 

changes. This is a more high-end procedure that 

enables clients not to suffer from "after-surgery" 

effect. With this in mind, this treatments do not 

offer lifetime results unlike surgeries 

Check out their Non-invasive Facial Rejuvenation 

Treatments here 

So the next time you feel like visiting a 

dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon for your 

own aesthetic satisfaction, why not try Novel 

Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgicenter! 

-Dr. Ma. Christina Tanciangco-Javier. 


VP/EVENTS 

Sharp Philippines 

Corporation (SPC) 

has been providing a better 

and convenient life for 

everyone for more than 37 

years. They truly becomes 

the leading appliance 

brand here in the country. 

The brand continues to 

commit high-quality and 

innovative products. Sharp 

launched revolutionary 

products last July 2 at 

the Shangri-La the Fort‘s 

Grand Ballroom. 

SHARP BETTER SOLUTION 

FOR A BETTER LIFE 

Sharp’s Media Launch 

Hosting the launch, Giselle Sanchez energized the crowd during the morning event. Chief Executive Officer Yoshihiro 

Hashimoto started the launch with a warm opening remark and thanked the support they received from media and 

bloggers. President and General Manager Kazuo Kito presented how Sharp Philippines performed drastically well 

throughout the years. He also introduced game-changing products which fall into four categories: Entertainment, 

Business Solutions, Clean & Comfort and Health & Beauty. 

Entertainment Solution 

Sharp Philippines is changing the world with 8K technology. It delivers 

clear and high-definition images that has the potential to eventually change 

the society. It develops and expands into sectors such as broadcasting, 

healthcare, security, and education. Sharp leverages 8K Ecosystem strategy 

while developing the 8k according each company’s strengths. 

The 8K Ecosystem is finally in the Filipino market with the Sharp 2nd 

generation 8K TV (8T-C80/70/60AX1). The 8K LED TV has impressive features 

that give every Filipino household a chance to level up. This has the 8K AI 

Revelation Engine which analyzes and coverts contents up to 8K picture 

quality, resulting in clear and high-definition videos. It has the brand’s original 

panel with IGZO, an extremely high resolution with around 33-million pixels 

delivering crystal clear images. 

AQUOS 8K LED TV already succeeded in Japan, making society better as it 

is being used in the medical, security, and education field. Just like in Japan, 

Sharp expects this technology to enhance industry and business possibilities 

in the Philippines. Aside from this, the brand proudly offers newest audio 

category which expands customers’ viewing experience with AQUOS Sound 

Partner. This offers ear-free and hands-free personal audio. SS1 remains 

suitable for enjoying music while being alert of your surrounding and SX7 is to 

add more immersive experience through acoustic vibration system. 



VP/ EVENTS 

Business Solution 

As technology evolves, there comes the need to upgrade the tools we already use in 

organization and enterprises. With this in mind, Sharp launched their new set of B2B 

AQUOS TV, which remains a perfect part for signage in retail and and product AVPs 

in the office. This leads to Sharp acquiring Toshiba Dynabook and introducing it in 

the Filipino market. These professional LCD products are available in four models: 

The All-in-One Display has a professional LCD display monitor with built-in SoC 

(system on a chip) technology for a versatile digital signage solutions. 

The Video Wall Display is a signange display monitor using Sharp’s Advanced UCCT 

(Universal Colour Calibration Technology) for superbly colour-accurate, dynamic 

video walls for inspiring signage. 

4K B2B AQUOS is a digital display monitor in a 4K resolution which is built for an 

eye-catching signage. 

Sharp Big Pad is an interactive display monitor that can become a smart and 

powerful partner to boost your collaboration in business meeting. 

Clean & Comfort 

Filipinos started to give importance to hygiene and comfort in 

households. We now value the clean and fresh air we breathe inside our 

homes. With this in mind, Sharp showcased their Plasmacluster Ion 

Technology, which purifies the air with positive and negative ions, 

deactivates airborne mould, viruses, dust mite allergens, and bacteria. 

This technology is present in the AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things) 

J-Tech Inverter which purifies the air, eliminates odor, removes static, and 

keeps the skin moisturized. 

Health & Beauty 

Sharp knows that its consumers’ demands on health and beauty have started to 

evolve. They now offer products that meet their needs and objectives with fast and 

cost-effective solutions. With that said, they introduced Healsio Hotcook, which 

is an automatic cooker promoting healthy cooking. You won’t even need to stir the 

food you would want to cook as it already has a stirrer inside that does the work for 

you. This has a total of 330 stirring patterns and different functions to cook your 

food and dessert. 

Aside from Healsio Hotcook, Sharp also introduced Vacuum Blender, which 

minimizes oxidation-retain vitamins and minerals of fruit and vegetables. This makes 

it perfect for health conscious Filipinos. 

For the beauty section, Sharp introduced beautéA that has a new line-up for beauty 

appliances including Hair Iron, Blower, and Curling Iron with a Plasmacluster 

technology. This lessens the dirt and prevent hair damage. This also includes a 

massager where it reduces the sebum which causes dry scalp. 




VP/COVER 

GOES ONWARDS 

AND UPWARDS 

Darren Espanto 

With no one and nothing stopping him, Darren Espanto will continue going onwards and upwards. 

WRITTEN BY Angela Grace Baltan 

PRODUCER | ANGELA GRACE BALTAN PHOTOGRAPHER | GIO MARASIGAN VIDEOGRAPHER | DONNA REY 

ASSISTED BY PATRICIA YSABEL TORRES STYLIST | RODEL BRINAS ASSISTED BY KIMMY GUEVARRA, JESSA GREGORIOS, 

AND JOEY BUENAOBRA GROOMING | MABETH CONCEPCION ASSISTED BY BRYAN SANDERS FASHION DESIGNERS | MOSES BERAMO, JOJO BRAGAIS, 

RUBRI | MCA MUSIC INC. RICKY ILACAD CEO MCA MUSIC INC. | NEIL GREGORIO SENIOR DOMESTIC LABEL DIRECTOR | KERWIN ROSETE 

ARTIST MANAGER | JACKIELOU DELOS SANTOS ROAD MANAGER 



On Vivoree, Juan Paolo Francisco 

On CK, Rosbert Villar and Moses Beramo 



Music is surely the strongest form of magic. It gives a soul 

to the universe and becomes the language that doesn’t 

speak in particular words. It speaks to us with emotions 

through melody and rhythm. Keeping the foundation of joy 

and love alive in us, music dissolves one’s perplexities and purifies their 

character and sensibilities. 

DARREN SPEAKS THE UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE 

Delivering these feelings with raw talent and powerful vocals, Darren 

Espanto lets music communicate what the lyrics convey. He wows 

his audience with every song he performs. Definitely wise beyond his 

years, he talks with sharp wit and clever perception. 

At such a young age, Darren entered the industry with genuine 

enthusiasm, which evolved into a passionate drive to do more. He 

gives credit to his parents for inspiring him to become the acclaimed 

performer that he is today. 

“As a kid, I always enjoyed watching other performers po sa TV doing 

what they love which is singing. Doon po talaga ako na-influence sa 

panunuod sa kanila and also, ‘yung parents ko po kasi mahilig rin silang 

kumanta sa karaoke. Pinapakanta rin po nila ako. It has always been my 

dream talaga to perform here in the music industry.” 

Performing for a huge amount of people across the globe takes nerve 

and courage. With true grit, Darren learns through practice as a means 

of inviting the perfection desired. Despite his fame, he still experiences 

performance anxiety with clammy and shaky hands. 

“Before I go on stage, I always feel like I’m going to throw up. Minsan 

nanginginig ako, minsan sobrang lamig ng kamay ko… I don’t really deal 

with it. I just let it happen because when I go on the stage, it goes away 

naturally kasi ‘yung energy po ng crowd and ‘yung vibe nila.” 

12 | VILLAGE PIPOL MNP @villagepipol 


DARREN AS 

AN ARTIST 

Creating music isn’t just staring at a river and 

telling your audience what you see. It’s stepping 

into the river, joining the flow and absorbing the 

temperature as the sun lightly kisses your skin. 

Darren gets involved in the creative process of 

his music, its videos, and the message it should 

convey. 

“I like getting involved in the creative process 

ng paggawa ng music videos and ng kanta. I 

think it’s important for an artist to be involved in 

such kasi it’s your own image din. It’s your own 

branding, the way you want to present yourself to 

the world.” 

Music travels from one mouth to another’s 

ears, and from one person to a whole audience. 

Darren’s audience isn’t just in the Philippines but 

also out of the country. As a performer, he can 

travel to different countries and performing for 

Filipino all around the globe. 

“My favorite part of being a singer… is I get to 

travel and perform in different countries. So, 

I’ve been to almost all the continents and dream 

destinations na gusto kong mapuntahan. It’s so 

nice to be able to see all of the Filipinos in each 

country and to be able to perform for them and 

to be able to live my dream po talaga.” 



DARREN BECOMES A 

WORLDWIDE SUCCESS 

“I get to inspire other people din. It’s 

cool seeing them na minsan ginagaya 

nila ‘yung mga ginagawa ko. It’s 

something that I have always dreamed 

of din: to inspire others.” 

Speaking of his experiences in 

traveling the world and performing 

for Filipinos across the globe, Darren 

appeared and showed his finesse on 

the hit Chinese show Singer 2019. He 

stepped on the stage for a special 

performance during its finale. 

“I felt very nervous po kaming apat 

na sumalang,” referring to his fellow 

performers Russian singer Polina 

Gagarina, Kazakhstani child singer 

Daneliya Tuleshova and Chinese 

rapper, Air. They performed We 

Are The World and their whole 

performance made waves of positive 

and optimistic feedback. 

Darren felt like an electric current 

flowed through him with thrilling 

and galvanizing fire of enthusiasm. 

An animated jolt of a sudden charge 

coursed through his veins during their 

performance. 

DARREN DOESN’T LET HIS MUSIC GET LOCKED UP 

INSIDE OF HIM. HE RELEASES ITS BEAUTY AND 

TENDERNESS, UTILIZING IT TO ACHIEVE ONE OF HIS 

DREAMS: TO INSPIRE OTHERS. 

“Ako po talagang… feeling ko parang 

na-ground ka, ‘yung buong katawan 

ko ganun po ‘yung pakiramdam bago 

ako sumalang sa stage. Sobrang ang 

lamig ng kamay ko and everything 

but it was really a great experience 

to be able to sing in a different 

country and on television, as well… 

Sobrang na-proud din po ako sa sarili 

ko kasi siyempre parang I pulled it 

off. Masaya po ako sa reaction ng 

tao na nagustuhan pala nila. I felt 

really loved by, of course, ‘yung mga 

kababayan po natin, fellow Pinoys 

kasi they supported me din kahit hindi 

naman ako sumali.” 


DARREN CELEBRATES HIS FIFTH YEAR OF SUCCESS 

Despite his success, Darren still wants 

to prove himself to others. At such 

a young age, he already garnered 

millions of fans as he ventures to the 

top. The thought of other talented 

people coming in the same industry as 

him makes Darren strive even harder 

to stay at the summit of his success. 

“I think every day [I still try to prove myself 

to others], especially in the music industry, 

you have to keep improving your craft po 

and sa lahat ng ginagawa mo… At any 

moment, pwede kang palitan, eh. Ang 

dami nang pumapasok na mga bagong 

singers, of course, atsaka mga bagong 

artista. So, it’s something na you have to 

keep working on kahit feeling mong okay 

ka na kung nasaan ka ngayon. You should 

set a standard for yourself and just keep 

on… pushing yourself.” 

As Darren grows up, he obviously would 

go through puberty. His voice started to 

change where one’s pitch suddenly drops 

and deepens. Scientifically, it is usually 

happens along with the larynx where the 

vocal cords grow significantly longer and 

thicker. This affected a full year of his 

career as he needed to adjust to it. 

“Thankful po ako na ‘yung boses ko ‘di siya 

biglaang bumaba na it was gradual. Pero 

meron talagang isang year na hindi ko 

alam kung anong gagawin ko kasi nawala 

‘yung falcetto ko. Tapos, hindi po ako 

maka-birit na and then, dadaan ka pala 

talaga doon para mag-adjust. So after 

niyang mag-adjust, I started doing vocal 

coaching. Ayun po, nakatulong rin and I 

got my falcetto back and also, ‘yung range 

ko mas lumawak. Kasi, dati puro nasa 

taas lang. Ngayon, parehong taas atsaka 

baba.” 



D 

DARREN AS A TRIPLE-THREAT 

Above all, Darren doesn’t stop with singing and 

performing. He becomes a full triple-threat as he 

debuted as an actor through The Hows of Us, which 

also starred Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla. This 

is under Cathy Garcia-Molina’s direction and Star 

Cinema’s production. He played Kathryn’s younger 

brother, who has a difficulty in seeing. He comes 

along with her sister to look for their father overseas 

who never came back for them. 

After his stint in the movie, he received offers for 

movies and television shows. However, his schedule 

never seems to match with the opportunity. Darren, 

on the other hand, would want to work on his acting if 

he decides to continue down the road. 

“Actually after po ng The Hows of Us, I got offers po 

for teleseryes and movies. Pero ‘yung schedule ko rin 

po, hindi sumasakto. I also want to probably work on 

acting din bago isalang kasi ‘yung THOU biglaan lang 

pong binigay ‘yung role din. If I am going to do another 

project, I’d like to siguro do workshops muna din.” 

Darren has nothing but kind words to Kathryn, Daniel, 

and Direk Cathy. In fact, he expressed how they truly 

helped him through the new process. Kathryn and 

Daniel had a lot to input in conveying his feelings and 

emotions without even saying it. Direk Cathy, on the 

other hand, let him relish as his character and it would 

be his job to figure out how that person manages their 

emotion. 

“Sobrang gaan po katrabaho ng lahat, especially Ate 

Kath and Kuya DJ. Tinutulungan nila ako sa pag-deliver 

ng emotion atsaka ng linya. Si Direk Cathy po… 

hindi niya sasabihin kung anong dapat gawin mo, eh. 

She will put you in the place that your character is in 

and then, i-figure out kung anong emotion mo dapat.” 

“That really helped po talaga so parang workshop as 

it was going on. Actually habang nagfi-film kami, nung 

parang sixth day ko na parang naisip ko na I could 

have done na ‘yung first day ko na mas ganito, mas 

ganun. Kasi sinasanay ko palang ‘yung sarili ko nung 

first week, eh. Nung medyo nasanay na ako, ‘Ah, sana 

ganito ‘yung ginawa ko.’ Pero I’m still happy on how it 

turned out.” 

“Actually after po ng The Hows of Us, I got offers po 

for teleseryes and movies. Pero ‘yung schedule ko rin 

po, hindi sumasakto. I also want to probably work on 

acting din bago isalang kasi ‘yung THOU biglaan lang 

pong binigay ‘yung role din. If I am going to do another 

project, I’d like to siguro do workshops muna din.” 

Darren has nothing but kind words to Kathryn, Daniel, 

and Direk Cathy. In fact, he expressed how they truly 

helped him through the new process. Kathryn and 

Daniel had a lot to input in conveying his feelings and 

emotions without even saying it. Direk Cathy, on the 

other hand, let him relish as his character and it would 

be his job to figure out how that person manages their 

emotion. 

“Sobrang gaan po katrabaho ng lahat, especially Ate 

Kath and Kuya DJ. Tinutulungan nila ako sa pag-deliver 

ng emotion atsaka ng linya. Si Direk Cathy po… 

hindi niya sasabihin kung anong dapat gawin mo, eh. 

She will put you in the place that your character is in 

and then, i-figure out kung anong emotion mo dapat.” 

“That really helped po talaga so parang workshop as 

it was going on. Actually habang nagfi-film kami, nung 

parang sixth day ko na parang naisip ko na I could 

have done na ‘yung first day ko na mas ganito, mas 

ganun. Kasi sinasanay ko palang ‘yung sarili ko nung 

first week, eh. Nung medyo nasanay na ako, ‘Ah, sana 

ganito ‘yung ginawa ko.’ Pero I’m still happy on how it 

turned out.” 


ARREN GOES ONWARDS 

AND UPWARDS 

With his worldwide success, Darren continues 

his journey to the top. He acknowledges his busy 

schedule and hectic environment with a relaxing 

moment as a way to take care of himself mentally. 

He described his way of relaxation, which always 

includes taking a step back from the things that 

make him feel overwhelmed. 

“Mentally, gusto ko lang nagre-relax kasi diba, hindi mo naman maiiwasang maoverwhelm 

din and nabu-burnout talaga. Kahit sino naman, diba, sa trabaho. So, ang 

ginagawa ko po talaga, I like to relax [and] unwind. Minsan, may biglaang roadtrip lang, 

biglaang kain sa labas ganun. I guess [sometimes], I like to stay at home and binge watch 

or hang out with friends and family. I think it’s very important to surround yourself with 

positive vibes din since sobrang toxic rin ng industry minsan.” 

Of course, Darren admitted that the industry can be toxic sometimes. With that 

knowledge, he revealed how he deals with hate and backlash. Although he doesn’t 

particularly care when someone tries to tear him down, his parents do. His mother and 

father who just want the best for their 18-year-old son can’t handle the hate that their 

young child has to endure. 

“I do not respond to hate… Ako po talagang ever since pumasok ako sa showbiz, hindi 

po talaga ako na-bother sa bashers. ‘Yung parents ko sobrang gusto na nilang awayin… 

Sinasabi nila, ‘Hindi mo kasi alam ‘yung pakiramdam…’ Sabi ko naman, ‘It’s how you deal 

with the situation rin.’ Atsaka if nasa showbiz ka, it’s something that’s inevitable sa career 

na ito. Even if you’re not in showbiz, actually, people will still backstab you… judge you 

for… a lot of things.” 

With the amount of fans that he has, there are always people who would want to 

become a part of the music industry. Darren hoped they think about entering this world 

and he wished they push through rejections. 

“For me, if you’re going to want to go into the music industry, pag-isipan mo. Pag-isipan 

mo ng mabuti, isipin mo kung ano ‘yung mawawala sayo; siyempre ‘yung privacy mo. If 

this is really something na gusto mo, go for it and pursue your dreams. Siyempre you will 

get rejections along the way, pero that shouldn’t stop you from doing what you love. It 

should inspire you… to do better. That’s one way to help you improve, as well. Sing your 

heart out!” 

Darren truly and deeply loves his fans, of course. In fact, he holds on to many 

interactions with them, counting those as his favorites. He had a birthday concert at the 

Mall of Asia, seeing the people who had supported him since day one. 

“There’s so many that I hold on. I get to have parties with my fans so ang dami namin. 

Pero my favorite will always be yung sa MoA Arena na concert ko po, kasi birthday 

celebration ko. It was so nice to see everyone who supported me from The Voice. 

Nandoon silang lahat and parang isang malaking birthday party lang po talaga siya. It’s 

something I will always remember na ginawa ng fans ko para lang sa akin.” 

When asked about his messages to his fans, Darren felt confused why they choose to 

support him. However, he thanked them for the outpour of love and support they give 

him. He also hoped they cherish the friendship they built within their community. 

“’Uhm, bakit? Bakit ako ‘yung pinili niyong suportahan?“’ 

‘Yun po talaga ‘yung tinatanong ko minsan kasi ewan ko din kung anong ginawa ko para 

ma-deserve ‘yung suporta nila and all their love. Pero I’d like to thank them for all the 

efforts din na ginagawa nila po talaga. It’s crazy kasi dati, konti lang po sila. Ngayon, 

over the years, they’ve grown. Sobrang nakakatuwa kasi ‘yung mga hindi magkakakilala 

nagkikita sa mga events ko. Sa next events ko, magkakabarkada na sila… Ang sayang 

makita noon. They’re my inspiration, they’re the people that keep me going besides my 

parents and my friends.” 



DARREN LOVES HIS SUPPORTERS 

With his worldwide success, Darren continues his journey to the 

top. He acknowledges his busy schedule and hectic environment 

with a relaxing moment as a way to take care of himself mentally. He 

described his way of relaxation, which always includes taking a step 

back from the things that make him feel overwhelmed. 

“Mentally, gusto ko lang nagre-relax kasi diba, hindi mo naman 

maiiwasang ma-overwhelm din and nabu-burnout talaga. Kahit sino 

naman, diba, sa trabaho. So, ang ginagawa ko po talaga, I like to 

relax [and] unwind. Minsan, may biglaang roadtrip lang, biglaang kain 

sa labas ganun. I guess [sometimes], I like to stay at home and binge 

watch or hang out with friends and family. I think it’s very important 

to surround yourself with positive vibes din since sobrang toxic rin ng 

industry minsan.” 

Of course, Darren admitted that the industry can be toxic sometimes. 

With that knowledge, he revealed how he deals with hate and backlash. 

Although he doesn’t particularly care when someone tries to tear him 

down, his parents do. His mother and father who just want the best for 

their 18-year-old son can’t handle the hate that their young child has to 

endure. 

“I do not respond to hate… Ako po talagang ever since pumasok ako 

sa showbiz, hindi po talaga ako na-bother sa bashers. ‘Yung parents 

ko sobrang gusto na nilang awayin… Sinasabi nila, ‘Hindi mo kasi 

alam ‘yung pakiramdam…’ Sabi ko naman, ‘It’s how you deal with the 

situation rin.’ Atsaka if nasa showbiz ka, it’s something that’s inevitable 

sa career na ito. Even if you’re not in showbiz, actually, people will still 

backstab you… judge you for… a lot of things.” 

With the amount of fans that he has, there are always people who 

would want to become a part of the music industry. Darren hoped 

they think about entering this world and he wished they push through 

rejections. 

“For me, if you’re going to want to go into the music industry, pag-isipan 

mo. Pag-isipan mo ng mabuti, isipin mo kung ano ‘yung mawawala 

sayo; siyempre ‘yung privacy mo. If this is really something na gusto mo, 

go for it and pursue your dreams. Siyempre you will get rejections along 

the way, pero that shouldn’t stop you from doing what you love. It should 

inspire you… to do better. That’s one way to help you improve, as well. 

Sing your heart out!” 

Darren truly and deeply loves his fans, of course. In fact, he holds on 

to many interactions with them, counting those as his favorites. He 

had a birthday concert at the Mall of Asia, seeing the people who had 

supported him since day one. 

“There’s so many that I hold on. I get to have parties with my fans so 

ang dami namin. Pero my favorite will always be yung sa MoA Arena 

na concert ko po, kasi birthday celebration ko. It was so nice to see 

everyone who supported me from The Voice. Nandoon silang lahat and 

parang isang malaking birthday party lang po talaga siya. It’s something I will always remember na ginawa ng fans ko para lang sa akin.” 

When asked about his messages to his fans, Darren felt confused why they choose to support him. However, he thanked them for the outpour of love and support they give 

him. He also hoped they cherish the friendship they built within their community. 

“’Uhm, bakit? Bakit ako ‘yung pinili niyong suportahan?“’ 

‘Yun po talaga ‘yung tinatanong ko minsan kasi ewan ko din kung anong ginawa ko para ma-deserve ‘yung suporta nila and all their love. Pero I’d like to thank them for all the 

efforts din na ginagawa nila po talaga. It’s crazy kasi dati, konti lang po sila. Ngayon, over the years, they’ve grown. Sobrang nakakatuwa kasi ‘yung mga hindi magkakakilala 

nagkikita sa mga events ko. Sa next events ko, magkakabarkada na sila… Ang sayang makita noon. They’re my inspiration, they’re the people that keep me going besides my 

parents and my friends.” 





VP 

SPOTLIGHT 

YONG 

MUHAJIL 

Digital Prince 

The moment you see the meek radiance in Yong Muhajil’s visage is the exact moment you’ll have a glimpse 

of the beautiful soul inside. He’s almost an angel whenever he blesses you with a sight of his gentle and 

heartening smile. But more than what meets the eye, this determined man will never run out of passion in 

his heart. Yong is never afraid to show how grateful he is for his family, friends, 

and people who supported him. 

Producer Janvin Brua | Photographer | Wilmark Jolindon Art Director | Jobo Nacpil Videographer | Jasper 

Lawan Stylists | Arnel Zulieta and Benj Barrus Ledesma III of Van Mercado Styling Team Makeup Artist | Janell 

Capuchino Hairstylist | Mycke Mortiz Arcano Special Thanks To Nenette Rustia, Star Magic, and Studio 206 


VP/SPOTLIGHT 


www.villagepipol.com | 21 | 21

HUMBLE 

BEGINNINGS 

The moment you see the meek radiance 

in Yong Muhajil’s visage is the exact 

moment you’ll have a glimpse of the 

beautiful soul inside. He’s almost an 

angel whenever he blesses you with a 

sight of his gentle and heartening smile. 

But more than what meets the eye, this 

determined man will never run out of 

passion in his heart. Yong is never afraid 

to show how grateful he is for his family, 

friends, and people who supported him. 

Before he was hailed as Pinoy Big 

Brother Lucky Season 7 3rd Big Placer, 

Yong went through a tough journey 

in his quest inside the famous yellow 

house. Their batch is undoubtedly one 

of the most remarkable ones — with the 

likes of Edward Barber, Tanner Mata, 

and Elisse Joson to name a few. The 

opportunity given by this show is one 

thing Yong will be forever grateful for. 

But when he auditioned for this show, 

he did not tell anyone — even his family. 

He only confessed it to his parents after 

receiving a confirmation as an official 

housemate. 

“Grateful ako na naging parte 

ako ng Pinoy Big Brother. 

Doon ako nagsimula at naging 

daan ‘yun para marating ko 

kung nasaan ako ngayon.” 


FAMILY FIRST 

Yong also made history as the first Tausug housemate 

in Big Brother’s house. His representation of his 

community is greatly needed in the media nowadays. 

But greater than this, the love for his family is what the 

general public should see and appreciate. 

Being in a family with 17 siblings in total, Yong 

strives to live up to his title: 

“Pag-A-Son ng Angkan ng Zamboanga” 

He may be living here in Manila with a sibling and 

some of his cousins, but there will always be one 

place he will call home. 

"Mahalagang mahalaga ang pamilya ko sa akin, 

kahit magkakalayo kami, nagsusuportahan kami sa 

isa’t isa.” 

Coming from a big household, he did not have a 

hard time mingling with a bunch of new faces — 

thanks to the lessons he learned living in a one big 

happy family. 

“Kasi ang dami niyo, iba-iba kayo ng ugali, matututo 

kang makisama at rumepeto kahit minsan hindi 

kayo pare-pareho ng opinyon kasi parte pa din kayo 

ng iisang pamilya.” 

Before joining the reality show, Yong knows how 

to do things on his own. As he put it into words, he 

learned it the hard way. He grew up helping his late 

father in feeding and taking care of their chickens. 

He also worked in a water station, and he did all of 

these things to ultimately help his parents. 

You can call Yong, in layman’s term, a family guy. 

Even if the opportunities are greater here in the 

city, the one thing he can’t trade for this luxury is his 

mother in Zamboanga. 

“Ang pagkakaiba lang nandoon ang nanay ko, 

pamilya ko.” 

There will always be pros and cons wherever you 

chose to stay. But, what’s more important is you are 

rooted to the core of your being, knowing where 

your heart should always be. 



THE MAKING OF 

DIGITAL PRINCE 

Inspiration is what drives Yong to do his current endeavor — vlogging. 

His co-PBB housemates-turned-vloggers are his biggest influence in this 

venture. 

“Sila Ate Baninay, Ate Aura, Kuya Jesi – lahat sila nag vlo-vlog at lahat 

sila nakainspire at nakatulong sa akin.” 

Seeing his brothers and sisters in Big Brother’s house fulfill their dreams 

through this platform made him realize a lot of things. Through vlogging, 

his authentic self shines through. Above all, he emphasizes that vlogging 

gives him the opportunity to showcase his truth. 

“Ngayon mas kilala ko na ‘yung sarili ko, alam ko kung ano ang totoo sa 

hindi. Lagi akong naka-focus sa blessings, good vibes lang. Masaya pag 

minahal ng mga tao ang totoong ikaw. Hindi mo kailangan magpanggap. 

Maging humble palagi. Ako pa rin si Yong, hindi ko tinitignan na mas 

lamang ako sa ibang tao.” 

His following on Instagram and Twitter is a solid 470k+ and 142k+, 

respectively. Yong also has 142k+ subscribers on his YouTube account, 

giving him the Silver Play Button. At the end of the day, he will not be 

called Digital Prince for nothing. 

Of course, every YouTuber has their own dream collaboration. For Yong, 

he wishes to do a video with two people who encouraged him to do 

vlogging — although Baninay Bautista and Will Dasovich are the ones 

who inspired him to enter the world of YouTube, they haven’t got the time 

to film a YouTube video together. 

Moreover, Yong wishes to join Alex Wasabi in a video, one of his 

international YouTuber idols. 

As he establishes his name on YouTube, let this be the perfect time to 

reign Yong Muhajil as a rising star in both entertainment and new media. 

The prince has now been crowned but that doesn’t stop there. As long 

as Yong keeps on doing the things he’s really passionate about, there will 

always be a bright future ahead of him. 

Yong Muhajil doesn’t need a sword or a shield to fight since it’s not 

always about blood and war. He got the charm that could shoot holes to 

every heart but his healing smile can fix it in an instant. Living a tough life 

taught him so much about life in general, metamorphosing him to a man 

of passion. This gentleman has the courage to tell his truth in the most 

light, relatable way. 

He is unstoppable yet unassuming, lionhearted yet receptive, relaxed yet 

charming. 

He is Yong Muhajil. 



BREAKING BOUNDERIES 

OF GENDERED STYLE 

Produced by Shawn Kliff Sacal 

PHOTOGRAPHER | RXANDY CAPINPIN STYLING | KEITH ANGELO HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST | LEI PONCE 

MODEL: THAIS AT WOMENS FOLIO 




Who are YOU? 

While that question seems out of context, your sense of identity plays an important role in fashion. It is, in fact, the very 

foundation why this industry exists: self-expression. Despite business moguls capitalizing on social constructs, a latest 

trend is taking over that blurs out any gender divide. 



Manila Fashion Festival menswear pieces shifts into 

parisienne fashion 




Recent years have witnessed a 

groundbreaking turn of events as labels 

welcome androgyny into their fold. Even Rei 

Kawakubo’s Comme De Garcons means “like 

a boy”. True enough, her Paris Fashion Week 

S/S 2020 screams unconventionality with 

men in skirts, dresses, and bloused sleeves. 

Alessandro Michele of Gucci and Miuccia of 

Prada opened such gates as well back in 2017. 

Although, is going beyond tradition and norms enough? 

Better yet, have we not mistaken it with crossdressing? 

The nuances of these terminologies often get confused 

and conflated, which is why it needs to be distinguished. 

How we define our style as androgynous might have misled 

us at some point. Apparently, it has been rather outdated 

considering how women have worn trousers for so long 

that it just doesn’t count anymore. Unisex, instead, would 

be an appropriate word. Moreover, technically-speaking, 

androgynous refers to how we meld or mute gender-specific 

apparel. As a result, it eliminates ‘reading’ of a person’s sex. 

What they wear would have nothing to say on the matter of 

gender or sexual roles. Simply put, how your aesthetic does 

not resemble both genders so much as resembling neither. 

On the other hand, let’s not forget how it is easier for 

women to take down the walls of exclusions as compared to 

men. At worst, the norm’s tacit approval of empowerment 

is considered an improvement. Freeing up men to be more 

fluid stands as a different hurdle on its own. This is seen to 

be rather demeaning and ridiculous (misogyny). 

In the end, clothing might prove as a matter of what genders 

share and what they take away from each other. Still, whether 

it’s androgyny, drag, or unisex? What we all crave for lies 

not in the subject of nomenclature but the lack thereof. 

Our creativity should lean closer to our identity without any 

specificity—as fashion should be.

VP 2019-07 DARREN ESPANTO DIGITAL

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