EVENTS & LIFESTYLE

A few weeks ago, my boyfriend—a public health practitioner—picked me up from work. I had just hopped into his car when he casually mentioned that he was going to be on radio the next day—a morning show had invited him to talk about the new HIV and AIDS law. What?! I exclaimed. That’s awesome! I was so excited for him! I’ve always been so proud of him for his dedication to the Philippine healthcare system. I was also ecstatic because he was given a huge platform to educate and spread awareness.

But on our drive home, I realized that I’d never taken an HIV test, even though I supported the campaign against HIV stigma and discrimination. I even encouraged other people not to be ashamed to get tested. After all, we get all sorts of health-related tests done: breast exams, eye exams, urine tests, etc—so why be ashamed of an HIV test, right?

“But why have I not taken it?” I asked myself. Then began a series of monologues inside my head. “This isn’t right. I have to practice what I preach!” I knew I wanted to fully support the advocacy, so I decided that I wanted (read: needed) to have a test done. “Very well then. I’ll take the test. Tonight. And while I’m at it, I’ll educate myself more on the issue, too.

A self-proclaimed UNIQLO couple (we often wear head-to-toe UNIQLO outfits!),  Josh & I were so happy (delighted! ecstatic! overjoyed!) when we got passes to the exclusive preview of the upcoming collection . Keep reading to see this season’s hottest picks!

Bring this to your next wine and cheese sesh!

I'd always been curious about what goes inside the annual Art Fair—but I was always too intimidated to go. I didn't have an art degree, I don't know a lot of artists, heck, I can't even sculpt, or paint, or even draw anything worth framing in our own living room!

If I could, I would bask in the glory of pastels and glitters and fur. All day. Which is probably why my colleagues have already labelled me as "that kikay officemate", which I've eventually learned to embrace.