Standalone

What do you like most about your work?
Coming up with new ideas. My current company gives me more freedom to develop ideas, which is important because we approach marketing from the standpoint of branding rather than communications, which ensures that all our work is consistent with the client’s identity.

We know Christmas is a major celebration in the Philippines, where you’re from—did you get to travel home for the holidays?
I didn’t get to do that, unfortunately, but I got to visit in November to attend my friend’s wedding. I’ve been in Singapore with my family for about 20 years, but they just moved back about a year ago and I’ve been living on my own ever since.

What’s it like, living by yourself?
It’s a very different experience—there’s a lot more adulting to do, for one! Without my family around, I have to worry about things like bills and taxes, and managing my daily expenses. It can be tough being on my own, but it’s given me opportunities to be more responsible.

What’s a dish from home that you miss?
I have a sweet tooth, so one thing I really miss is halo-halo, which is essentially a Filipino version of ice kachang, with things like creme brûlée, ice cream, and jelly on top of shaved ice.

If you could live alone somewhere for the rest of your life, where would it be and why?
There’re a few places that are on my travel bucket list. I’d say India, especially Mumbai, because there’s so much culture and tradition that I want to experience.