1. Ina Ayala
This loving mum and wife who has graced our cover and pages many times is an accomplished equestrienne with international triumphs to her name. She loves the arts, has taken to photography as a hobby, and travels extensively.
"Manila is a city that I understand. It has many facets—bright ones, dark ones—but once you have seen and experienced each of them, you discover what makes the city tick. And then it becomes pretty hard to forget."
RESTAURANTS: The Last Chukker at the Manila Polo Club, not only because it’s my sister’s, but it’s a place you would see me and my family eat at a lot. M Dining for the prawn and chorizo pasta, and the cotechino chips.
HOTEL: The Manila Hotel is truly special, having so much history and importance in our city’s story. Manila Peninsula, as its lobby holds a lot of seasonal celebrations. It is also a great after-party venue.
GYM: The Manila Polo Club stables’ Big Arena is the best place to burn calories, while sitting on a charming horse to boot.
DESIGNERS: Inno Sotto for formal wear; the late Pitoy Moreno, as well as Lulu Tan Gan for Filipiniana; Bea Valdes, Celestina, Rafe, and Aranaz for accessories. For furniture: Kenneth Cobonpue, Vito Selma, and Budji Layug.
FAVOURITE SPOT IN THE COUNTRY: Coron, Palawan—hands down!
A PLACE YOU WOULD LIKE TO VISIT: Siargao, as I’d like to see what all the hype is all about.
WHERE WOULD YOU TAKE FOREIGN GUESTS? I would start with a welcome drink at the roof deck of Manila House, then host a Filipino-themed dinner at its Anahaw Room. I would make sure they visit the many pop-up stores in the city for local clothes, accessories, and homeware. For crafts, I would take them to Balikbayan Handicrafts, Tesoros, and Silahis Arts. I would encourage them to visit Intramuros; show off our beautiful Manila Bay sunset at the Sofitel poolside. For a taste of Filipino hospitality, I would invite them at home and for an unforgettable experience, I would prepare a decadent [but civilised] boodle fight. Can’t get more unforgettable than that!