What’s the frequency, Kenneth?

By: Dexter R. Matilla

KENNETH COBONPUE HAS always generated global buzz for his designs. His designs and awards have landed him appearances on European television and in editorial space in Newsweek, International Herald Tribune, Time, Wallpaper.

Lately the buzz or frequency he generates has been extreme, especially after he won top honors in the Design for Asia Awards, the region’s most prestigious award-giving body, and Hollywood actor Brad Pitt’s disclosure that he buys Cobonpue designs.

“Brad has actually been getting furniture from me for the past three years,” Cobonpue said. “I just never played it up because, to me, he is a client just like any other. The first pieces he got were standard off-the-factory-floor stuff. The later ones, in true Hollywood fashion, were of custom sizes and colors. Brad is known for his exquisite taste in furniture and architecture. In fact, he is planning to take time off soon from moviemaking to study architecture.”

Pitt will apparently get to appreciate more of Cobonpue’s works as Warner Brothers executives have asked the designer to produce a casino set for “Ocean’s 13,” the Brad Pitt-George Clooney-Matt Damon movie scheduled for release next year.

“I cannot disclose set details but Warner Brothers contacted my partner in the USA about a few pieces of furniture,” Cobonpue said. “We sent the set designers a catalog and they were bowled over. They ordered stuff to fill up an entire lounge for the set design, telling us that they have never ordered so much furniture from one company before.”

Movement 8

With Movement 8, an alliance of eight award-winning Filipino designers and manufacturers, Cobonpue shows new work every year in design shows from Paris to Shanghai. Having achieved so much never deterred him to pay homage to his roots. Following the example of his mentors, Cobonpue modestly shares his knowledge and skills with others who are interested in making a difference through design.

Growing up in a wooden Italian house in Cebu, Cobonpue would “wake up to the sound of nails and the songs of carpenters working” with his mother, Betty, making furniture in the backyard.

“She taught me the value of form and beauty,” Cobonpue said. “She knew early on that design was the key to making a difference.”

Cobonpue said he had no idea back then what being a designer meant.

“In high school, I designed everything from basketball uniforms to party invitations. I knew early on that I had an eye for design, but never dreamt where it would take me. I knew how to use design to get things I wanted. I was never good at sports when I was a kid. But I more than made up for that through music and design to get the girls.”

Cobonpue tried to banish the thought of becoming a designer at first. He had thought of becoming a writer, a sculptor, and, at one point, even a fashion designer. But he eventually chose to take up Industrial Design at Pratt Institute in New York.

“You could actually go to school to become an inventor, thinker, engineer and artist all in one,” Cobonpue explained. “It had to be for me.”

He added: “I remember sitting nights on my balcony as a student in New York looking at the skyline. I pictured the millions of tiny, lighted windows as people. I told myself that if I were to become a designer, I would have to make a difference in this world. And I wouldn’t stop until that window of mine becomes bolder and brighter than the rest.”

Awards

And this would be his driving force as he amassed an impressive lineup of awards including a Presidential Citation for embodying ideals of Asian Design given by President Macapagal-Arroyo; a Design Excellence Award during the 9th Annual IIDA/Hospitality Design Product Competition; and one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines in 2003.

One of the more prestigious honors he got was the Design for Asia Award. In a field of over 500 entries from more than 22 countries and regions, 12 were selected. His entry, the Lolah chair, was judged by a group of international designers and CEOs.

The press played up Cobonpue’s victory with this headline: “Low-tech rattan chair shares design award with Sony, Nokia and Samsung.”

“It took me a while to realize the absurdity of the situation… a handmade rattan chair sharing an award with a technologically advanced highly polished handphone,” Cobonpue said.

“But that’s the beauty about well-designed products. They may look different on the outside but they are usually born from a similar design philosophy. Every element of the design is there for a purpose.”

Cobonpue said he got the idea for the chair from a softly dented Coke can. Working on the shape for half a year and experimenting with different materials, he sought to come up with a chair that was light, strong, and beautiful. He was able to achieve this by developing a technique of slicing rattan with knife cutters and bending it to conform to a shape.

Form, function, inspiration

Cobonpue believes the challenge of being a designer is to design not only a beautiful object but a functional one as well.

Take for instance, his first creation, the Yin & Yang chair. Cobonpue regards it as a personal breakthrough in that it is rare a design draws so much press notice.

The design also adapts to any style at home. Because of this, it remains as one of his best-selling designs even after seven years.

Cobonpue’s inspirations come from everything and everyone around him. Objects such as fishing nets, bridges, cracks on the wall, and even a piece of bread become part of his imagination. “I like to think that through my work, they (the images) have all taken a life of their own,” he said.

Cobonpue said he believed Filipino talent and ingenuity could make all the difference in the creative industry.

“We are still the perceived design leaders on our part of the world, but it’s a title we need to defend more vigorously with each passing year,” Cobonpue said. “Our schools need to partner with the industry to know what’s out there and what can be done.”

Cobonpue also stressed the need for Filipino designers to read up, travel and expose themselves to other design geographies.

“Designers need to travel more,” he said. “I can’t stress enough the importance of global exposure. I have seen designers transform themselves from spending a week in Milan. As long as the design industry puts education and exposure as its priorities, we will go far.”

Originally published on August 21, 2006.

Negros: Lovely, dark and deep

By: Dexter R. Matilla

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL IS A province teeming with national treasures and cultural heritage sites. And it is for these reasons, among other things, that the region was chosen as special focus for this year’s National Heritage Month (NHM) Festival.

Journalists and National Commission for the Culture and Arts (NCCA) delegates from Manila were flown into the renowned City of Smiles via Air Philippines and billeted at the L’Fisher Hotel in Bacolod for the entire event.

Kicking off the festivities was the opening of the photo exhibit at the Robinsons Place Bacolod, which showcased vintage pictures of the entire province from the collection of longtime resident Joe Lopez.

In the afternoon, the “Aton Panublion (Our Heritage) Cultural Exhibit: Inside Ancestral Homes of Negros” was formally opened at the Sea Breeze Hotel.

On hand during the ribbon-cutting ceremony were NCCA chair Ambeth Ocampo, Tourism Undersecretary Edu Jarque, Negros Occidental Gov. Joseph Marañon and Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia.

Distinguished personalities present include Spanish Ambassador Ignacio Sagaz, Belgian Ambassador Gregoire Vardakis, French Ambassador Gerard Chesnel, Gloria Angara, Tony and Armita Rufino, Melanie Villar, Carrisa Lebron, and C.J. Moreno and Josefa “Paching” Puentevella, wife of Rep. Monico Puentevella. Msgr. Guillermo Gaston led the invocation rites. It should be noted that it was the first time that three different ambassadors were at an NHM event.

Showcased were items from the yesteryears including furniture, framed pictures and traditional clothes. Also on display were photos of ancestral homes that belonged to Bacolod’s Don Mariano Ramos and Dr. Mariano Yulo, the Montillas of Pulupandan Town, and those of Doña Enrica Alunan Lizares, Don Simplicio Lizares, and Gen. Aniceto Lacson, whose manor was once considered the Malacañang of the South.

Heritage tour

The following morning, guide Ramon “Mon” Hofileña, himself a proprietor of a heritage house, treated the visitors to a heritage tour starting with the Bernardino-Jalandoni Museum in Silay City, which is also considered as the Paris of Negros Occidental.

The museum gives guests an idea of how the rich and elite lived during the earlier times and how the “Negros, Sugar Bowl of the Philippines” title came to be.

Next stop was the Church of Saint Joseph the Worker at Victorias City, home of the Victorias Milling Co. Inc. Built in the late 1940s through the efforts of the Ossorio clan, the church has features that represent true Filipino talent and are true cultural treasures.

According to Hofileña, broken glasses gathered by residents of the mill were used in designing the mosaics that decorate the exterior of the church.

Inside, sculptures by Benjamin Valenciano were also something that raised a few eyebrows, especially from religious groups, during the time. Saints were, for the first time, depicted as having Filipino features.

But what could probably be considered as the church’s biggest attraction is the “Angry Christ” mural of Alfonso Ossorio (1916-1990). The colorful artwork—with the majority of the figures in shades of red and yellow—shows Jesus Christ in the middle, with His heart in the middle ablaze and surrounded by thorns, and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove descending upon Him. It the only one of its kind in the country; it was featured in Life Magazine.

In the afternoon, a short visit at Victorias Milling, which included a free taste of freshly milled sugar, preceded our visit to the Chapel of the Cartwheels in the town of Manapla. Just as the name implies, the chapel is composed mainly of cartwheels, including the cross where a Filipino-looking Jesus Christ is nailed with his hands slightly higher than usual.

It was then on to the Hofileña heritage house where Mon Hofileña’s collection of paintings by National Artists and one sketch of musical instruments—probably a school project by the looks of it—by Jose Rizal left us all in wonderment.

Following a quick printmaking workshop by Hofileña, the group moved on to the Balay Negrense Museum or the Don Victor F. Gastono Ancestral House.

Museum

Found in the heart of the small colonial city of Silay, the museum, entirely made of wood and stone, was constructed at the turn of the 20th century. A vast hall occupies the first floor and is connected with another large corridor in the second floor via a majestic stairway. Twelve bedrooms circle the space surrounded by shutters, hemmed in by carved transoms and permanently aired by trade winds.

In the dining room, the table of red narra is set with fine porcelain, French silver and orchids from the nearby garden. An epitome of the colonial lifestyle, it multiplies the effects with vegetable ornaments, leaf motifs and floral designs in sculpted wood against pale blue paneling.

After a hearty dinner at the museum compliments of Silay Mayor Carlo Gamban, a cultural presentation presented by very talented young performers ensued.

On the final day of the tour, the equally enchanting Silliman University Kahayag Dance Troupe treated the group to another cultural dance number at the Sylvia Manor where Mayor Leonardia hosted lunch afterwards.

As the sun began to set, the Tourism and Performing Arts Society (Tapas) Inc. staged the Ilonggo zarzuela “Dandansoy-Ang Gugma ni Dansoy kag Rosing” or Dansoy’s Love for Rosing. It is based on a true story that happened in the early 1900s when sugar was the prime economy of the island of Negros. Dansoy, a farm worker, meets Rosing, the daughter of an “encargado” (plantation manager) who fell in love despite their social status differences.

“The zarzuela is a wonderful thing,” said Bambi Harper. “Let us hope and pray that this tradition will continue to prosper.”

Capping the night off was the Governor’s Dinner at the Social Hall of the Provincial Capitol.

Although the activities-filled stay was short, the entire event allowed me to have a greater appreciation how wonderful Negros Occidental is. Because more than just a city of smiles, more than a city of cultural heritage, and more than just being a sugar bowl of the Philippines, Negros Occidental is a place that anyone anywhere could consider their home away from home.

Originally published on  June 19, 2006.

Maximum technology allows big leap

By: Dexter R. Matilla

WHEN Nike gave birth to the Nike Air and Air Max technology 25 years ago, the innovations were considered a revolution. Never before had there been any other technology dedicated to comfort and performance in an athletic shoe.

Avid fans of the Air Max shoe consider models from 1987, 1990, 1993 (first to have fully-visible heel Air unit), 1995 (first to have visible forefoot air), 1997, 1998, and 2003 as collectibles.

The year 2006 can likewise be considered another revolutionary year with the introduction of the Air Max 360. With a cushioning system that features 360 degrees of Max Air cushioning, the AM360 is probably the closest one can ever get to experiencing total and extreme comfort whether walking or running.

“The launch of Nike Air Max 360 marks the next evolution of Air, reinforcing our leadership in technology and innovation,” said Nike Philippines marketing manager Deeda Pama. “Catering to the everyday athlete, Air Max serves to provide premium cushioning for the active, providing comfort and performance at every level. Nike Philippines is proud to be part of the global launch and in offering local consumers an opportunity to run on air.”Withstanding wear and tear

Having a foamless midsole dramatically reduces weight and increases durability. Foam midsoles generally last for about 300 to 500 miles before their shock-absorbing properties deteriorate. But since the AM360 has been engineered to withstand the wear and tear that befall most running shoes, the cushioning will feel the same even after extensive usage.

According to Martin Lotti, Global Footwear designer of the AM360, “Air Max 360 is all about air… and air is all about cushioning. That’s truly the heritage of Nike-bringing innovation and superior cushioning technology to the consumer. That was certainly the goal for the Air Max 360.”

Martin was able to frame the newly-engineered full-length Max Air unit and eliminate all foam by utilizing the rand, a common design element identified from the Air Max lineage.

He believes in the “less-is-more” ideal, creating a visual hierarchy that lets the Max Air unit stand out. Though it seems simple from a distance, the AM360 has intriguing details-from the laser edging to the Nike Air timeline on the shoe’s sock liner-that are certainly a feast for the eyes.

A complete reflectivity upper makes for maximum exposure in low light conditions while deep flex grooves and beveled heel enhance natural motion characteristics. Add to that the fact that the Max Air unit in the AM360 is tuned specifically for gender and shoe size that ensure added precision in impact protection.

Taking it a step farther, the AM360’s dynamic-fit inner-sleeve provides a soft, seamless interior that helps eliminate abrasion while the outer synthetic leather panels provide structure and support. The laser-cuts in the upper provide breathable comfort without the weight issue. Having said that, the AM360 is the lightest full Air Max shoe to date at 13 oz or 368.5 g.

And if that’s not enough, just keep in mind that 360 degrees is equal to one revolution, which the AM360 truly encompasses. Indeed, the revolution for the Air Max technology has come full circle as it is the first shoe that gives you the sensation of running (or walking) on air.

Originally published on February 1, 2006.

Life, learning and basketball

By: Dexter R. Matilla

FOR some time now, the And 1 Mix Tape Tour has been going all over the world and spreading the good news about basketball, teaching, molding and transforming the game we’ve all grown to love.

End result? Some unforgettable memories are made whichever court they step on.

The And 1 Mix Tape Tour continues to grow. True ballers of all ages collect DVDs of the Mix Tapes, trying to learn the skills of their favorite And 1 players and at the same time, creating their own.

For the second straight year, through the efforts of Relzbach Ventures, the And 1 Mix Tape Tour brought its wares to Philippine soil and awed those who went to the Araneta Coliseum to watch the players live.

Not that the final score was really important. And 1 cruised to a lopsided victory. Anthony “Half-Man, Half-Amazing” Heyward, however, praised the Filipino players who passed the open run and faced the And 1 players.

“They didn’t quit. They didn’t stop playing. The fans would have noticed it and that would be it,” Heyward said.

Heyward came to the country along with Robert “50” Martin, Tony “Go Get It” Jones, Waliyy “Main Event” Dixon, Jamar “Pharmacist” Davis, Lonnie “Prime Objective” Harrell, the “Professor” Grayson Scott Butcher, and Dennis “Spyda” Chism.

“High Octane” came with the And 1 delegation but had to go ahead to Australia due to back pains. Also, among those who came were And 1 public relations director Mandy Murphy, former Philippine Basketball Association Shell import Steve Burtt, and the tour’s official court emcee Duke Tango.

Baller-teacher

But among the players who came, it was Heyward who had a story to tell. The man more popular as “Half-Man, Half-Amazing” definitely lived up to his moniker on and off the court.

Before he became “Half-Man, Half-Amazing” Heyward was a teacher. For nine years, the 6’6” Heyward was teaching in Brooklyn New York. He recalled being introduced to the And 1 style of play six years ago by Waliyy “Main Event” Dixon.

“Since then, I’ve been a part of the team,” he said.

Of course, teaching still meant a lot to him. There were times he couldn’t join the And 1 tour because he was teaching full-time for 10 months.

“I would just join them when school was out,” he said.

His discipline defines Heyward’s personality as a basketball player and as a teacher. Sometimes, his two personas mix. During half-time in the Araneta game, Heyward and his And 1 teammates threw freebies at the audience. As Heyward was standing under the basket, waiting for his cue, someone from the crowd crept up behind him and stole the miniature ball he was holding.

Slowly, with a stern look on his face, Heyward made his way to where the unruly person was and without saying a word, asked for the ball back.

“I wanted that guy to realize that it was not the right thing to do,” Heyward explained. “I guess the teacher in me just came out at that moment.”

Lessons

The day of their flight to the tour’s next stop, Australia, the And 1 delegation paid a visit to an orphanage.

“It felt really good being there,” Heyward said. “I’ve been dealing with kids all my life and it’s a truly wonderful experience to be able to reach out to them and see the smiles on their faces.”

Before leaving, I asked Heyward if there were any similarities between playing basketball and teaching.

“When you step into the court, if you pay attention to a good basketball player, you’ll learn new things, skills, tricks. If you step into the classroom and pay attention to the teacher, you’ll also learn new stuff,” he said.

What’s the best lesson he has learned as a person, a teacher and as a basketball player? “Never stop believing in yourself. You always learn something new everyday until the day you die, so never back down from challenges.”

Originally published on January 11, 2006.

Mutant madness can be “X”-citing

By: Dexter R. Matilla

ONE word best sums up “X-Men 2” (or simply “X2”): exhilarating.

When “X-Men” director Brian Singer started production on the sequel, he wanted it to be more than just a “traditional sequel.” So it’s not surprising that in “X2,” Singer lets all hell break loose.

Picking up from where the film left off three years ago, “X2” tells the mutant nation’s continuing struggle for acceptance.

Things get more complicated for the mutants after an unidentified assailant, who has the ability to teleport, tries to assassinate the US president. After discovering that the assailant is a mutant, the public panics and pushes for a Mutant Registration Act.

Prof. Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart) then asks Storm (Halle Berry) and Jean Grey (Famke Janssen) to track down the mutant Nightcrawler (Alan Cumming) for questioning.

The attack stirs the pot even more between the humans and the mutants. Enter William Stryker (Brian Cox), who heads the mutant assault that attacks Xavier’s Mansion, disguised as a school for gifted youngsters.

Left to defend the mansion and the younger mutants are Wolverine (Hugh Jackman), Rogue (Anna Paquin) and Iceman (Shawn Ashmore). A plot by Stryker leads to the capture of Cyclops (James Marsden) and Xavier.

Wolverine, Rogue and Iceman escape and later form an unlikely alliance with their archenemy, the newly escaped Magneto (Ian McKellen) and the metamorph Mystique (Rebecca Romjin-Stamos).

Aside from the mutants’ struggle for acceptance, there is Wolverine’s quest to find out more about his past, which is somehow connected with Stryker’s.

Wolverine’s character is undoubtedly the pivot that holds both “X-Men” films as he continues to look for clues regarding his mysterious past.

Furthermore, Wolverine’s relationship with Jean Grey goes to the hilt as they develop an even deeper connection.

Likewise, Mystique gets to show her witty side (as well as her real appearance) when Nightcrawler asks her why she chooses to keep her freakish look when she could take the appearance of anyone she wants. Mystique answers with a poker-faced, “Because I shouldn’t have to.”

Established as the central story in “X2” is Stryker’s hidden agenda against mutants. It will be revealed in the film how the rich and wealthy scientist-soldier blames mutants for the destruction of his family.

“What I love about Stryker is that he is a perfect example of a villain who is not involved in violence or terrorism because of the need for expansionism, or religion or even greed. His hate and bias are based on a deeply personal loss of some aspect of his family. Somewhere in the past some damage was done… some hit was taken… and now his desperation makes it easy for him to engage in war against those he thinks are responsible, ” says Singer.

Although his resentment for mutants is clearly depicted in the movie, Stryker employs the service of a mutant aide — Lady Deathstrike (Kelly Hu).

Armed with her martial arts skills, healing ability and adamantium nails, Deathstrike is an advanced and slicker version of Wolverine.

Nightcrawler has definitely got to be the main attraction of “X2.” His opening sequence in the film is so amazing that one would want to see it over and over again.

It is quite impressive how Singer and the rest of the production staff were able to bring the blue-skinned mutant’s teleportation abilities to life.

The accompanying “BAMPF!” — the sound effect used in the comic book — whenever Nightcrawler teleports, makes it even more appealing.

But Nightcrawler also plays a very important role in “X2,” as the X-Men will find his teleportation skills very useful especially in the later parts of the film.

Aside from Nightcrawler, an addition to the film is Pyro (Aaron Stanford). Among the junior X-Men’s, Pyro, who has the ability to manipulate fire (although he is not able to create it) is the most volatile type.

Compared to Iceman and Rogue, Pyro has no regard for rules and would rather have things done his way, thus paving the way for his crossover to the evil side.

Other X-characters given a glimpse in “X2” are Colossus (Daniel Cudmore), Kitty Pride (Katie Stuart), Jubilee (Kea Wong), and the fork-tongued Artie (Bryce Hodgson).

Exciting glimpse

Although the film is not exactly a perfect adaptation of the comic book story (since doing so would mean having to cramp all the other storylines into a two- or even three-hour film), it does however stay true to some other aspects of the X-Universe.

Diehard followers of the X-universe would also enjoy “X2” as the film gives a glimpse of a future storyline for the third “X-Men” installment.

Comic enthusiasts who have seen the movie would undeniably recognize Jean Grey’s exceptional powers in three instances, the last of which could very well lead to a “Phoenix Saga” storyline.

Other than that, the inclusion of other mutants also ups the ante in anticipation of future “X”-films.

Characters such as Gambit and Beast, as well as longer cinema minutes for the other junior X-Men, should be enough to keep fans on their toes for the film’s next chapter.

Originally published on September 23, 2005.

Like father, like daughters

By: Dexter R. MatillaTHE SAYING that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree stands true for multi-talented Filipino artist Edgar Doctor and his four daughters-Luningning, Lualhati, Amihan and Yasmin, as they took center stage in their first family exhibit, “Glimpses,” at the Philippine Center in New York City.

From May 23-June 3, New York City witnessed the creative genius of the Doctor family, from Edgar’s sculptures and paintings to his daughters’ skills in the visual arts, photography and jewelry design.

Over the years, Edgar Doctor’s metal sculptures and still-life paintings have been exhibited all over the country and in countries including Singapore, Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, and the United States.

According to Doctor, “art is neither a profession nor a vocation-it is life itself. Without it, I’m nothing.”

For the exhibit, Edgar’s well-known style of bringing life to the canvas, as well as sculptures, was in full view.

Stills, landscapes, and his piscean verve are brought to life in vibrant

watercolors, such as “Old Manila,” “Riverbanks” and “Rockfish.”

His creations earned him recognition in international competitions in France and in Chile in the same way that his sculptures won accolades from the Society of Philippine Sculptors and the Art Association of the Philippines. Because of this, Edgar was included in the 2000 Outstanding Artists and Designers of the 20th Century by the International Biographical Centre in Cambridge, England.

Sisters act

Taking after him, of course, are his daughters-Luningning, 33, and Lualhati, 27, Amihan, 24, and Yasmin, 21.

Luningning, a market research and product planning and control analyst for Rustan’s Marketing Corporation, fancies designing beaded and precious stone necklaces.

She also does photography along with Lualhati, a research executive for the advertising agency, Campaigns and Grey.

As kids, Luningning and Lualhati had been exposed to jewelry as their mother and grandmother had a vast collection of beaded jewelry. Because of this, according to them, they were able to appreciate the importance of heritage and antiquity.

They make it a point, however, to not produce similar pieces but instead make each one as unique as possible. “It kind of loses its rarity,” Lualhati explained.

As much as possible, the Doctor siblings prefer to use antique and one-of-a-kind beads and pendants for their pieces.

Their interest is not limited to this, however. Luningning and Lualhati enjoy taking photographs as much, with the former preferring landscapes while the latter is more into framing the human form.

“There’s more drama,” Lualhati explained.

On the other hand, Amihan and Yasmin seem to have taken after their father’s interest in paintings. Amihan is a BS Psychology graduate at the University of Santo Tomas and currently pursuing a degree in Nursing at the Philippine Women’s University while Yasmin is an AB Journalism student, also in UST.

Amihan gets her kick out of drawing caricatures of friends and family.

Aside from that, she also finds solace in writing poems, having participated in poetry clubs as a grade schooler, and she was also a member of the St. Scholastica’s Creative Writers Guild and the Varsitarian, UST’s official student publication.

Yasmin, meanwhile, is the closest, artistically-wise, to her father, specializing in textured artworks with the use of acrylic and spray paint.

“Glimpses” will be the second exhibit for Amihan and Yasmin after participating in an exhibit in 2004 for Ang-INK (Ang Illustrador ng Kabataan), titled “Meme Na.”

With the realization of “Glimpses” comes the affirmation that art is alive in the Doctor family.

Amihan said art has always been fun and interesting for the family of artists.

“It has to be,” she said. Luningning couldn’t agree more. “It gives us a certain sense of fulfillment and meaning.”

Originally published on June 6, 2005.

Sole Classic

By: Dexter R. Matilla

HISTORY in the making. Perhaps that’s the only way to describe the importance of the Air Jordan line not only in the market worldwide, but also in the consciousness of consumers for over two decades now.

Before the very first Air Jordan came to be, all basketball shoes were white. This fact only begins to describe the sheer magnitude of the changes that have occurred in the sport of basketball and in the athletic footwear industry ever since Michael Jordan entered the league. With Jordan’s arrival and the launch of the Air Jordan I in 1985, both the game and the industry have never been the same.

Each year, a new Air Jordan is born. With each model, the media, the industry and the buying public have met it with ever-increasing anticipation. People overseas would often camp out at their local shoe stores the night before the release of the latest Air Jordan shoe and pay retail just to be the first to own a pair.

Some would even purchase multiple pairs of multiple sizes, because they realize that the demand for such shoes are high and some people would pay more than double the retail price just to be able to own a pair.

Some, on the other hand, would simply buy two pairs of the same size, one to wear and one to keep as a spare. What other brand name has the ability to do that? None.

The release of the Air Jordan XX is another one for the record books. Designer Tinker Hatfield, the man responsible for the Air Jordan III to XV, is back. He was named one of the “Most Influential Designers” in Time Magazine’s list of 100 Artists and Entertainers of the Century (1998) and has worked closely with Jordan himself to introduce the most innovative footwear for the most discerning athletes and consumers.

Various designs

The Air Jordan XX is made of full grain leather and nubuck upper with detailed laser etching on the midfoot strap to celebrate the history of the brand. Some designs include the Black Cat, which is how Jordan is known by friends and opponents throughout the league because of his ferocity on the court; Pops, which is how Jordan’s father was known; a whistle in honor of Clifton Pop Herring, Jordan’s high school basketball coach; the six-fingered hand to commemorate Jordan’s six NBA championship rings; and a home plate symbolizing Jordan’s minor league baseball stint with the Birmingham Barons.

It also has a hidden lacing system for a lock-down performance fit. The heel and ankle system offers customizable support, while the memory foam-backed collar lining cushions the foot. An asymmetrical toe cap offers durability in key areas to protect against toe-drag.

The midsole has an internal shank plate for midfoot and arch support. It also has a full-length fabric-wrapped Phylon midsole that houses a new Independent Podular Suspension (IPS) teachnology, developed exclusively for the Air Jordan XX shoe.

This system strategically places 20 IPS columns of varying density Phylon beneath key performance areas of the foot. Resting directly above the outsole, the IPS is positioned for maximum efficiency in compression and dispersion of shock and energy, enabling quick and responsive reactions to the highest performance needs of basketball. The 20 herringbone pods on the outsole celebrate the heritage of the Air Jordan shoe line.

The Air Jordan XX made its debut during the NBA All-Star Weekend in Denver last February, worn by Team Jordan members Quentin Richardson of the Phoenix Suns, sophomore Carmelo Anthony of the Denver Nuggets and Ray Allen of the Seattle Supersonics.

Locally, Nike Philippines made two colorways of the Air Jordan XX available to the public recently-the white/varsity red-black and the black/silver, more popularly known to shoeheads as the Stealths.

No doubt die-hard Jordan fans will snap up this latest model as part of their collections. For those who do not yet own a pair of Air Jordans, getting a pair of Air Jordan XX is the best way to start.

It celebrates the past and anticipates the future that symbolizes the excellence embodied on and off the court by Michael Jordan-the greatest player to ever play basketball.

Originally published on April 11, 2005.

San Agustin wins Greenwich invitational

By: Dexter R. Matilla

NOBODY thought they would go as far as they did but Colegio San Agustin overcame the odds, and Immaculate Conception Academy, to crown themselves the first Greenwich Volleyball Invitational Tournament champions at the Caruncho gym in Pasig.

The stage was all set for an ICA celebration as they were up, 2-1, needing only one more set to seal the victory. But CSA put together a furious rally to win the set and force a rubber match for all the marbles. In the final set, both teams came out of their respective huddles with guns blazing. ICA seemed poised to put CSA’s efforts for naught as they were up, 16-15.

“I thought it was the end,” CSA coach Grace Vita said.

But her players had other things in mind, answering ICA’s every offensive with stifling defense. Its game was led by the tournament’s most valuable player, Ronagen Martinez. It eventually pulled off the nerve-wracking 21-19 victory.

“(I feel) overwhelmed, elated and very proud of my team,” Vita, who was named best coach, said.

“People always remember winners… and I thank my team, the girls and their parents because they came and gave their all-out support.”

Vita said the win wasn’t easy, as they had to face tough teams including Miriam, Immaculate Conception-Greenhills, and Hope Christian. For Martinez, who was also the tournament’s best blocker, winning the MVP award “came as a big surprise.”

“I’m very happy and it made my family and friends proud of me,” Martinez said.

The tournament was sponsored by Greenwich, Fruittella and the Philippine Daily Inquirer’s 2bU!.

Originally published on March 1, 2005.

Ball smart team for a basketball crazy nation

By: Dexter R. Matilla

AND 1 is streetball.

And the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour Team is the best group of streetballers alive.

Got your attention?

Good. Because if you were at the Araneta Coliseum when Dennis “Spyda” Chism captured a crazy alley oop from halfcourt, or when Aaron “AO” Owens broke his defenders’ ankles with his mean dribbling prowess, or when John “Helicopter” Humphrey did a between-the-legs tomahawk slam off the fastbreak, then you’d know it’s the truth.

Brandishing the basketball flair that made them famous worldwide, the AND 1 Mix Tape Team cruised to an easy 85-64 victory over the Crewsaders, composed of players from the Philippine Basketball League and several hand-picked ones from the open run held outside the arena prior to the game.

The Crewsaders, however, had their share of the spotlight as young Pinoy basketball wiz Nino Ventura held his own against his heroes AO and Jamar “Pharmacist” Davis, earning him the moniker “little wizard” from AND 1’s play-by-play emcee, Set Free.

Spreading the word

The day before the game, Relzbach Ventures, the local distributor of AND 1 products in the country, held a press conference at the Discovery Suites in Ortigas where the players were billeted.

The other players who came for the tour were Tony “Go Get It” Jones, Robert “50” Martin, Lonnie “Prime Objective” Harrell, Waliyy “Main Event” Dixon, John “High Octane” Harvey and Tyron “Alimoe” Evans.

AND 1 public relations director Mandy Murphy said they were surprised with the immense popularity of basketball in the Philippines. Likewise, they were even more surprised to see that the mix-tape style of play is growing here.

After the press conference, the AND 1 delegation made a trip to SM North Edsa to visit one of the AND 1 stores and sports shop Toby’s for autograph signing and photo opportunities.

On the bus back to the hotel, the players were like a bunch of happy campers. Pharmacist, Spyda, and 50 took turns talking thrash to each other.

Memorable quips that stuck in my mind include those from 50, who at first, was trying to doze off. He told Pharmacist, who had been laughing non-stop: “You’re laughin’ 24 hours, man. All you do is laugh–at the airport, at the hotel. Give it a rest.”

Spyda, who was seated at the back and is the newest member, likewise got a beating from 50. After seeing a huge billboard of AND 1 Mix Tape, 50 told him, “You’ll never get that poster shot, man.”

AO tried to acquaint himself with the locals by opening his window and asked motorists to watch the game the next day. I then told AO to say “Kumusta [how are you?]” to the people and if they asked him back, his reply would be “Mabuti. [Good.]” It came out something like “ma-boo-tey.”

Leaving a mark

Just like its National Basketball Association counterparts, the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour Team has a worldwide following that cannot be denied.

“Nowadays, if you would ask basketball-playing kids what they want to be when they grow up, they would no longer just answer ‘Be in the NBA’,” Murphy said.

“Now, they would tell you that they want to be a member of the AND 1 Mix Tape Team.”

In a basketball-crazy nation where unknowns make do with makeshift basketball courts on the streets, the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour visit definitely opened up doors for the talented to be recognized.

Murphy believes that organizing the tour not only meant introducing AND 1 products as made for streetballers, but also giving exposure to players who deserve it.

“They will definitely be back next year,” Relzbach Ventures president Bob Bachmann said.

Some have branded the AND 1 Mix Tape Team as modern-day Harlem Globetrotters with style. But A1 members beg to differ.

So keep it in mind. They ain’t hip-hop globetrottin’ harlems. Call them that, and you’d better be ready to look silly, end up with a ball thump on your head and get dashed.

Originally published on December 8, 2004.

The King James footwear

By: Dexter R. Matilla

WHEN 18-year-old LeBron James made his debut in the National Basketball Association, people did not know what to think about him. Some hated the upstart player, others just loved him.

The same thing happened with James’ first signature shoe, the Air Zoom Generation.

Niketalkers or NTers, an obscure group of shoeheads (people who love shoes so much) who frequent http://www.niketalk.com, cringed when they saw the prototype pictures months before Air Zoom’s release.

They couldn’t believe that the supposed “air” apparent was going to wear that shoe. But there were also those who took a liking to it, thereby branding the AZG as that year’s love it or hate it shoe.

Fast forward to 2004. People have seen what LeBron is capable of. They adore him now, and can’t wait to see what the kid has in store for his sophomore year.

At the same time, they can’t wait for the AZG’s successor. Many were thinking it would be named the Air Zoom Generation 2. But Nike has decided to go with Air Zoom LeBron 2, in the process stamping King James’ imprimatur on the shoe.

When pictures of the black/red/white LeBron 2 surfaced on various message boards, shoeheads immediately fell in love with it. And what’s there not to love?

The high-cut lightweight shoe, mainly black with accents of red and white, has removable straps for additional ankle support. The durable mesh material makes the shoe breathable and adjusts to your feet’s movements.

Making the LeBron 2 extra special are the laser etchings used for design, most noticeable of which are those of a lion’s head and LeBron’s logo.

Fear factor

Air Zoom LeBron 2 was recently unveiled in the Philippines, at a party held at the 40th floor of RCBC Plaza, Makati.

Video highlights of LeBron during his high school days at Saint Mary’s-Saint Vincent (SMSV) and his rookie year in the NBA were shown on a large screen.

On display, too, were LeBron’s shoes that came out last year. There were the low-cut Air Force 1s (in the Cavaliers and SVSM colorways) and there were the AZGs (the very limited-edition First Games, the Rookie Game wheats, and the general release white/black colorway).

And then the curtains parted. A basketball half-court, another video screen, and a mini-podium covered with black cloth meant there was more.

Sure enough, LeBron James appeared in the “Chamber of Fear,” a three-part television spot of 30 seconds each. Each spot showed LeBron overcoming one of five Chambers of Fear at a time — Hype, Temptation, Envy, Complacency and Self-Doubt.

In the first chamber, an ancient Shaolin Master’s eyes and hands flashed like cameras, depicting the hype and media coverage surrounding LeBron’s jump from high school up to the present.

Temptation that came along with fame, represented by a whirlwind of women, money, and diamonds, was next for LeBron. But he recognized this challenge and shattered the basketball backboard to avoid being distracted.

Then there were the Fo Shizzles, five martial artists symbolic of the people who envied LeBron. As the Fo Shizzles (modern slang for “for sure”) talked trash to LeBron and told him he “got no game,” King James silenced them with a single jump shot.

In the fourth chamber, LeBron confronted complacency. As multiple defenders tried to “cool” him off, he simply moved through the obstacles they threw at him and overcame the challenge.

Finally, in the last segment, LeBron found himself face-to-face with himself, albeit an anime version of him. When self-doubt reared its ugly head, LeBron just focused harder to conquer the challenge.

Prized pair

After the full 90-second spot, it was time to unveil the shoe. An emcee spoke on the mic and said something like, “All right people, here it is… What y’all been waitin’ for” and pulled back the black cloth.

Collective gasp. It was a beauty. Cameras clicked and lights flashed. Everybody took turns holding the pair in their hands until a Nike representative said, “We’ll be giving away a limited-edition pair of the LeBron 2. There were only 155 made. And the winner is… Ian Villanueva!”

Necks craned, and a lad in a black shirt ambled over to get his prized all-black limited-edition LeBron 2. All other prizes (LeBron Fo shizzle straps and baller bands) were mere consolations.

Never mind that only one guy won the limited-edition pair. LeBron 2’s out now and soon, every real baller is going to have a pair or two. Fo shizzle.

Originally published on November 24, 2004.