Sheresh Eunice Cortes

SHERESH CORTES SAMPLE WORKS -- WRITTEN FOR: PERSONAL BLOG A FOREIGNER IN THE LAND OF THE FORGETFUL Most of the time, I feel some kind of disconnection from my generation, if not from humans in general. Perhaps this is caused by the diminishing wonder in most people as they enter the world of adulthood, or such that comes with the realization that the world has its terrible parts. Although at some point, I, too, am guilty of this – I have become one with the forgetful and have not taken notice of life’s charm for a while. I can’t blame people. It’s very unchallenging to hate the world. If you’re not careful, you could easily become some sort of a machine who wakes up to the same day and sleeps on the same night for the rest of your life, which is one of the scariest and saddest things that could happen. I have met so many people who are exactly like that. They walk in such a manner as though they are always late for something. They do not bother to look up, or to look outside, that a sun rises and sets without their awareness. Such are the people who have gone blind. But you can fight this threatening loss, no matter how long you journey in life. It is by remembrance and further exploration that one can battle against forgetfulness. Needless to say, these require deliberate actions. This may mean slowing down, taking a necessary short pause. I must warn you, though. In the land of the forgetful, many raise their brows on whoever refuses to be like the rest. They call those who see things that they don’t many names – weird, alien, crazy. But you must not lose heart. In the land of the forgetful, blessed are those who are blind to the ordinary – the only blindness one should possess. And if you never stop praying, seeking, and waiting, you will come across people who will stir your fascination and passion in life. Build connections with such souls. They are beneficial in maintaining the magic in your journey. Sometimes, they are the magic. Sometimes, they are home. WRITTEN FOR: NEIL'S KITCHEN NEIL'S KITCHEN STORY To revolutionize Filipino cuisine was what Chef Neil Ramos had in mind when he brought Neil’s Kitchen into being. This desire is made evident by the dishes on their menu which are crafted with such thought and intricacy to arouse one’s senses. The dream began to emerge in 2007 when Chef Neil was still living in the United States, far from the kitchen of his home. Burdened by his observance that the Filipino cuisine was inadequately represented abroad, what with the lack of artistic touch, Chef Neil went back to the Philippines in 2008 and ventured into the food industry a year later. Neil’s Kitchen was first introduced as an upscale catering operation in Ayala Alabang Village for six years, persistently refining its trade and carving its name in South’s food scene. In 2015, Neil’s Kitchen found its home in Westgate Alabang and has since become the distinguished restaurant that it is now. Neil’s Kitchen takes pride in the fact that it has landed in the Top 10 Restaurants in the South only six months after its establishment and has never left the list since then. Today, Neil’s Kitchen remains one of the highest rated restaurants in Metro Manila. More to that, the restaurant has constantly displayed strong growth in terms of its sales since it first opened in 2015 despite staying in its sole building through these years. At the core of Neil’s Kitchen is the virtue that deems the restaurant as a home extension and everyone as its family members, from the staff to the guests. This, together with its aim to reinvent classic Filipino comfort food into sophisticated dishes that satisfy both the eye and the palate, Neil’s Kitchen is ready to represent Filipino cuisine in the global stage. WRITTEN FOR: NEIL'S KITCHEN NEIL'S KITCHEN MISSION Neil’s Kitchen commits to bring creative life into classic Filipino comfort food, modernizing every dish by treating each as a work of art that stimulates one’s senses. Despite being modernized, Neil’s Kitchen assures to retain the Filipino identity in its gastronomic fare. This, matched with an excellent customer service, is how Neil’s Kitchen will carry out its ultimate goal: to increase the value and appreciation for Filipino cuisine in the local and global food scene. NEIL'S KITCHEN VISION Neil’s Kitchen sees itself as one of the prime Filipino restaurants to revolutionize one’s dining experience by providing dishes that are contemporary, but at the same time reminiscent still of Filipino home. Neil’s Kitchen strives to expand both locally and internationally, ushering the Filipino cuisine in a renewed recognition as one that satisfies the eye and the palate of not just its own people, but of all nationalities as well. WRITTEN FOR: NEIL'S KITCHEN WRITTEN FOR: APPLICATION EXAM WONDER WOMAN: BATTLING INJUSTICE BY LOVE (1/2) While most superheroes are noted for their otherworldly strength, Patty Jenkins’ Wonder Woman sets itself apart by taking the spotlight from the heroine’s divine power and into her greatest weapon: empathy. Wonder Woman has since changed the superhero landscape and inspired women as early as 1975 when it was first produced as a TV series. Years after, here comes the first standalone female superhero film that gives a right balance of action and heart. This 2017 live-action film of one of the most iconic superheroes has received acclaim from audiences around the world. It is currently the highest grossing film directed by a woman. It stars Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman/Diana Prince who lives in a place called Paradise Island inhabited by women who are trained Amazon fighters. Growing up, Diana watches in fascination as her aunt Antiope (Robin Wright) educates the young women of the island in fighting. Her mother, Queen Hippolyta (Connie Nielsen), constantly stops her from joining despite her desire to be trained and defeat Ares, who she believes started all the war, and is returning to bring greater harm. But Diana is headstrong that she eventually gets what she wants and turns out to possess unique strength than all the others. Later, she meets Steve Trevor (Chris Pine), an American spy from the world of men, and she decides sooner to come with him to end war. . WRITTEN FOR: APPLICATION EXAM WONDER WOMAN: BATTLING INJUSTICE BY LOVE (2/2) But more than the battle scenes in the film, what many found remarkable was Wonder Woman’s ability to feel deeply for others that it becomes her driving force to fight. In the foreword of the book, Wonder Woman: The Art and Making of the Film, Patty Jenkins writes, “Love. It’s difficult and requires great bravery and acceptance. But to be strong enough to love in the face of darkness is the thing that sets Wonder Woman apart from so many before her.” This is evident in many parts of the film. But one scene towards the end captures it perfectly when Ares convinces Diana that the world does not deserve her as they only perpetrate war, to which she answers, “It’s not about deserve; it’s about what you believe, and I believe in love. Only love will truly save the world”. The fact that she chose to fight for humankind despite having no direct experience of war or injustice just proves that empathy is part of her core. She fought simply because she felt the need to end their suffering. Wonder Woman has truly been an inspiration to everyone. In an article published in Entrepreneur, Patti Fletcher wrote about how Wonder Woman’s empathy could also be beneficial as a leadership approach. One of the most striking points is that a leader should take the time to understand his people and meet them where they are. Much like what Diana did. Another thing that the film wants to translate to the audience is equality. Therefore, Wonder Woman is not just a film for women. Gal Gadot says in an interview with Jake Taylor of Insights that it is for the boys too. It is for everyone. She says that it is also important for the boys to have a powerful female leader to help them grow and develop. This just goes to say that a female image is as vital as a male image for leadership, that there is as much knowledge people can get from women as from men. Because ultimately, we are all humans. And we could all learn from her that to battle injustice by love is possible, and perhaps, the most effective way of all. . WRITTEN FOR: TRAVELIFE MAGAZINE INTERNSHIP TASK THE MOST WONDROUS GOLDEN HOURS (1/3) The setting of the sun has been a daily event since time immemorial yet it has never ceased to astonish people until today. The reason lies in the proverb that no two sunsets are ever the same, which is probably why travelers have gone places to chase after such display of colors in the sky. Here, we have listed 9 different sunsets to add to your next bucket list. 1. Serengeti, Tanzania Popular among nature photographers, Serengeti sunset remains one of the most photographed sunsets. Many say it depicts a still from the film, Lion King. Head towards Serengeti plains and see that there’s no better way to end your wildlife adventure than to behold such sight of the fiery orange skies, with silhouettes of acacia trees and, if you are fortunate, wild animals crowding the view. serengeti.org/ 2. Isle of Skye, Scotland With its magnificent mountains and sea cliffs, Skye offers sunset views that are nothing short of spectacular. Travelers will not run out of activities to do in the island. They can choose to stay in hotels, or rent a self-catering cottage, take a romantic afternoon stroll by the beach, go on a boat trip, or camp in a tent or camper van as the skies burst its colors. isleofskye.com. 3. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi If you are looking for a luxurious comfort amidst the largest desert landscape, this resort is for you. It features a range of upscale amenities, as well as desert activities and services. You can opt to see the captivating sunset from your suite, go on a desert trek, or ride a camel over sand dunes. Whichever way, we assure you that it will be just as enchanting as the others. qasralsarab.anantara.com . WRITTEN FOR: TRAVELIFE MAGAZINE INTERNSHIP TASK THE MOST WONDROUS GOLDEN HOURS (2/3) 4. White Desert, Egypt White Desert is one of the crowd- favorite destinations in Egypt. This desert was a result of previous eruptions and sandstorms. Various odd-shaped rock formations are spread out across the desert, some resembling a mushroom or chicken. Travelers camp overnight amongst the calcium rock formations to witness the slow transition of colors in the horizon. egypt.travel/attractions/the-white-desert/ 5. Mauna Kea, Hawaii Mauna Kea is an inactive volcano which last erupted about 4000 years ago. It is Hawaii’s highest mountain, and the world’s tallest sea mountain, which is why travelers are required to be physically fit to trek here. It is also home to the biggest observatory in the world with its large array of astronomical equipment. Though popular for having the clearest skies for stargazing, this white-capped mountain also features a breathtaking sunset view. hawaii.com/big-island/attractions/mauna-kea/ 6. Angkor Wat, Cambodia Listed as a World Heritage Site, travelers from around the globe flock over Angkor Wat to witness its architectural magnificence. It remains one of the largest religious monuments in the world and one of Cambodia’s best preserved temples that symbolizes its cultural identity. One of the crowd-favorite activities in Angkor is the sunset viewing which you can witness from various vantage points, the most popular being Phnom Bakheng Temple. If you want to avoid the usual crowd noise, there are other alternative locations from which you can view Angkor’s famous golden hour. siemreapcambodia.org/angkor-wat/ . WRITTEN FOR: TRAVELIFE MAGAZINE INTERNSHIP TASK THE MOST WONDROUS GOLDEN HOURS (3/3) 7. Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia The vast stretch of Uyuni Salt Flats was formed from an ancient lake that had dried up and turned into a seemingly desert of salt deposits. During dry season, the salt flats form a hexagonal tile pattern which gives it a moonlike appearance. During winter or rainy season, the salt flats are covered with a thin layer of water that reflects the sky. Its wondrous sunsets add more to its ethereal beauty, which has awed travelers from around the world. No official site: boliviahop.com/discounts/salt-flat-tours-anddiscounts/ 8. Uluru (Ayers Rock), Australia Uluru, Australia’s best-known monolith, stands in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. During the golden hour, the monolith takes on a dramatic change of color depending on the hue of sunset. This is why the best time to observe Uluru is during sunrise or sunset, an activity that is popular amongst travelers. You can hike up the monolith or explore its base to witness it in a closer look. uluru-australia.com 9. Grand Canyon, Arizona The beauty of the Grand Canyon is arguably unrivaled in the world. It has been the most popular natural landmark of Arizona, and it is not difficult to understand why. The rocky walls that stretch more than 270 miles welcome you with the view of the Colorado River. Most travelers visit the place specifically to witness the sunset. Anywhere is a good spot to see it, although we suggest heading towards Shoshone Point as it gives a better vantage point to see the reflection of light against the canyon walls. visitarizona.com . WRITTEN FOR: TRAVELIFE MAGAZINE INTERNSHIP TASK VANITY SECTION MAKE UP FOR EVER STAY ON FLEEK Shape your brows into perfect arches with Make Up For Ever’s brow trio, The Brow Show. Define perfection with the Brow Liner by outlining your desired brows, groom without the sticky feel using the Brow Gel which has a gel formula containing acrylic polymer for an easier apply, and sculpt precisely with the Brow Pencil which comes in five different shades to match your natural brow tone. makeupforever.com/ph/en-ph . WELLNESS SECTION LUXURIOUS ESCAPE BRENNERS PARK-HOTEL & SPA Escape from the hustle and bustle in Villa Stephanie, Brenners’ 5 story spa facility that features 500-square-meter sauna, plunge pool, private gym, hamam, ladies sauna and a copperplated-walled treatment room where you can completely relax and disconnect from the cyber world. brenners.com AN EXCLUSIVE SERENITY HOTEL DU CAP-EDEN-ROC Enjoy an exclusive treatment in Spa Eden-Roc Sisley where you can choose to have your massage among the four elegant treatment rooms, in the hotel’s garden, or in the spa huts. It also features an elegant duo cabin with salt wall which makes use of light and inorganic salt to improve respiratory and regenerate skin cells. hotel-du-cap-eden-roc.com WRITTEN FOR: PERSONAL BLOG I WAS HERE (1/2) Wondrous revelations often burst forth from a stroke of serendipity – that is, for me. Last April, I visited Torrijos, a 4th-class municipality in the province of Marinduque. It took a three-hour ferry ride to reach Marinduque from Lucena Dalahican Port, and a couple of hours in jeepney/van ride to reach the quiet town of Torrijos. I stayed there for a whole week but, to my good fortune and misfortune, I was only able to stumble upon such a beautiful sight on my last day. I decided to spend my last afternoon in Torrijos at Freedom Park, a place that is ideal for leisurely strolls, or just a quiet moment of contemplation. It faces the sea that is connected to the nearby resort which is Poctoy White Beach, only in Freedom Park it is less crowded or completely desolate at all. That afternoon, I sat on a bench and looked out into the great expanse of water. It was quiet, only the distant laughter of two local kids trying to catch some fish and the gentle crash of waves against the rocky strand were heard. What a silence, I thought. And then, I stood up to look for a comfort room. I reached the other end of the park but did not find one. Instead, a backyard passage to an elementary school was what I discovered. I was hesitant at first, but the inner child in me insisted, “go on, go on!” So I did, and the next moment I was standing in the middle of a vast stretch of field surrounded by trees and mountains. I walked around until I reached the end of the property – a cliff overlooking the ocean. I stood still for some time, closed my eyes, basked in the summer sun, and felt the afternoon wind brush away the heat off my skin. I wondered if any student impatiently waits for lunch break or for class dismissal to behold such a sight. WRITTEN FOR: PERSONAL BLOG I WAS HERE (2/2) The place was desolate, just like the Freedom Park which was only a few walks away. I thought about the crowd in Poctoy White Beach, and wondered if they knew about this sight – same ocean, different perspective. The place whispered to me, “Something doesn’t need to be grand, to be looked at by many eyes, to be renowned for it to be beautiful. Sometimes, it is found in the most common of places, unnoticed by many, just waiting for someone to stop and say ‘I see you’”. I smiled. I started to walk back to Freedom Park. But I took one last glance before leaving. I might never return anymore. Summer would end and another school year would start. Students would graduate and another generation would run across the vast field. Some student, or some stranger such as I who would also trespass, would stand by the cliff, bask in the sun or soak in the rain. Time would pass. Many would never know. But the mountains, the ocean, the sun which would go on existing long after I’m gone, this they would know: on the summer of 2016, I was here.