EC Magazines Manila Edition 2025
16 WHAT’S INSIDE? TRENDS • Floral Step • Runway Irony
2025 MANILA EDITION
• Scent Vision • Court Classic
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LIVING
• Stone Chic
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SPECIAL FEATURE
• Metro Manila Uncovered
FASHION EDITORIAL • Meadow Grace
CONSTANTINE NIGHTINGDALE A prophetic wake-up call for modern believers, Constantine Nightingdale’s Explaining Cults in the Year of the Open Door 5784 and The End Game unveil the spiritual battles and urgent truths shaping our end-times reality
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EC Magazines | Manila Edition 2025
In a world teetering on the edge of cosmic disaster, Ancient Destiny: SHIP launches readers into a science fiction saga where ancient Martian refugees, lost Atlantean technology, and a mysterious orbiting spacecraft converge to rewrite humanity’s fate. When astronomers detect a massive interstellar object hurtling toward Earth—too large to deflect—the ship awakens, selecting a brilliant college student to become the next “Aristotle,” tasked with accelerating human advancement before time runs out. Led by a team of highly capable women, with a nominal male captain as figurehead, the mission blends modern empowerment with ancient wisdom. As secrets of Atlantis, Mars, and Earth’s forgotten past unravel, the race to escape a doomed planet begins. Visionary and provocative, Clark’s novel explores what it means to inherit knowledge, lead with intelligence, and survive with purpose.
$10.99 Paperback 978-1966473107
$17.99 Hardback 978-1966473114
$2.99
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$14.99 Paperback 978-1966473138
$20.99 Hardback 978-1966473145
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As Earth faces imminent destruction from a moon-sized interstellar object, humanity’s survival hinges on a daring evacuation plan. In Ancient Destiny: Escape from Earth , the second installment of Albert Lynn Clark’s visionary sci-fi saga, global powers unite to construct forty massive colony ships—each designed to carry 1,000 people to new worlds. Guided by SHIP, a sentient vessel left behind by ancient Martians, a young college freshman is chosen as its final captain, joining six expert female crew members to lead the mission. Together, they accelerate scientific breakthroughs in space travel, resource extraction, and planetary colonization. As Earth’s final days approach, 140,000 colonists prepare to launch into the unknown, driven by faith, ingenuity, and the hope of a second chance among the stars. Blending hard science with spiritual undertones, Clark’s narrative explores the moral and political complexities of survival, the legacy of Atlantis and Mars, and the enduring question: can humanity thrive beyond the planet it once called home?
In the third installment of the Ancient Destiny saga, humanity’s survival beyond Earth enters a new phase. Generations follows the descendants of the original colonists as they adapt to life on distant planets, guided by the legacy of SHIP—the sentient vessel that once saved them. As new crewmembers join the mission and scientific breakthroughs reshape their understanding of space travel, the team uncovers startling truths: the origins of SHIP, the secrets of the Library of Atlantis, and the deeper history of Martian civilization. But peace is short-lived. A mysterious enemy emerges, forcing the crew to confront moral dilemmas, leadership shifts, and the fragile bonds of interstellar community. When they return to Earth decades after its destruction, they face haunting remnants of the past—and the possibility of first contact with the Galactic Alliance.
Blending speculative science, philosophical inquiry, and bold character dynamics, Generations explores what it means to inherit knowledge, rebuild civilization, and define humanity’s place in the cosmos.
$13.99 Paperback 978-1966473169
$20.99 Hardback 978-1966473176
$2.99
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In Ancient Destiny: Survivors , the saga continues as humanity confronts the aftermath of Earth’s destruction. Twenty years after a catastrophic asteroid impact, the colony ships have long departed—but Earth wasn’t entirely lost. Against all odds, a small group of survivors endures, rebuilding a fragile civilization from the ruins. Meanwhile, SHIP—the sentient vessel that once led humanity’s escape—detects signs of life on the ravaged planet and returns to investigate. What it finds is both haunting and hopeful: remnants of human resilience, unexpected evolution, and traces of ancient Martian and Atlantean civilizations that once walked the Earth over 10,000 years ago. As the survivors reconnect with the interstellar community and confront the mysteries of their past, Survivors explores themes of endurance, rediscovery, and the enduring question of what it means to be human in a universe shaped by forgotten histories and cosmic forces.
$16.99 Paperback 978-1966473190
$22.99 Hardback 978-1966473206
$2.99
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Lightning and Thunder is a deeply personal memoir chronicling the extraordinary love story between Albert Lynn Clark and his wife—a journey marked by serendipity, devotion, and divine timing. From a childhood moment of love at first sight to a chance reunion during a lightning storm years later, their bond unfolds through decades of adventure, resilience, and seemingly miraculous events. Together, they travel across the United States and Europe, guided not by plans but by what feels like divine intervention. Their life is filled with coincidences too profound to ignore, and their love endures through trials, triumphs, and the quiet magic of everyday moments. When she passes away 46 years later—during a thunderclap that disables the hospital’s emergency power—the symbolism is impossible to miss.
This is not just a love story. It’s a testament to faith, destiny, and the enduring power of connection that transcends time and even death.
$12.99 Paperback 978-1966473220
$18.99 Hardback 978-1966473237
$2.99
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What if the next world war began not with bombs, but with silence?
In World War III – It Started with EMP , Albert Lynn Clark delivers a chilling vision of global conflict ignited by an unexpected strike: a third-world nation detonates nuclear warheads 300 miles above Earth, unleashing an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) that cripples electronics across the United States. As infrastructure collapses and internal chaos erupts, the world watches—and then pounces. While America reels, a coordinated assault unfolds: the Middle East launches a devastating attack on Europe, and China invades eastern Russia. With communication severed and military response delayed, global alliances fracture and the planet plunges into war. Based on research originally conducted for the Air Force Air War College, Clark’s novel blends military realism with prophetic insight. Written as “future history,” this sweeping narrative explores the fragility of modern civilization and the terrifying speed at which it can unravel. $21.99 Paperback 978-1966473251
$27.99 Hardback 978-1966473268
$4.99
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.. .. .. a heartfelt guide to spiritual growth
The Word That Loves You, Begin is a book that provides verses from the English Standard Version of the Holy Bible about six important topics. The chapters are The Fall, Forgiveness, Faith, Fruit of the Spirit, Finding Others for Salvation and Frequent Prayer. Study questions and commentaries related to each important topic are included. The purpose is to emphasize the topics as addressed by the Holy Bible and God’s Word. It hopes to encourage the reading of God’s Word and the Holy Bible. This book provides only a small example of what can be learned from reading the Holy Bible and God’s Word.
$16.99 Paperback 979-8385029129
$39.99 Hardback 979-8385029136
$6.99 eBook
From Where? is geared toward individuals who are unsatisfied with who or what they are. Those who are fed up with their life as it is and are dreamers by nature. We have the ability to escape from our reality to a place of more adventure. Even though that place is simply a dream location, it is an escape from what concerns you in your life.
$16.00 Paperback 979-8892110624
$9.99 eBook
Manila Edition 2025
ETHEL LEACH Managing Director GENER ZAFRA
Project Manager ALEX ROSS Marketing Fulfillment Manager CARLO RIVERA Editor EDGE JAVIER Art Director
COMING SOON Book Fairs FRANKFURTER BUCHMESSE 2025 October 16–20, 2025 Messe Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany LAS VEGAS BOOK FESTIVAL October 19, 2025 Historic Fifth Street School, Las Vegas
Maeve Elise is single, twenty-five, with no children. Her life should be simple- but it isn't. She has two jobs because they're necessary. With no siblings, she's very close to her widowed mother. Silently, her friends e's very close to her widowed mother. Silently, her friends wonder why she doesn't have a place of her own. Maeve seems content to live with her mom in their childhood home. What she doesn't tell anyone is that her mother has Alzheimer's. The income from her second job goes to the live in help that ensures her mother is never alone. To avoid heavy downtown traffic and wasted gas money, Maeve chooses to ride the Dallas Transient system to downtown traffic and wasted gas money, Maeve chooses to ride the Dallas Transient system to her full time job. What she doesn't know is that a handsome stranger is attracted to her gap- tooth beauty. Is Maeve destined to be busy and alone, or is the young man going to be part of her future?
$18.85 Paperback 978-1963735796
16 trends floral step runway irony CONTENTS
scent vision court classic 30 life hacks sober clarity 34 living stone chic 38 feature metro manila uncovered 54 travel verdant dreams alpine reverie 68 fashion meadow grace 88 back cover story james maiwurm
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$16.99 Paperback 978-1964035772
$6.99 eBook
In We're Overdosed , pharmacologist Barry Gold delivers a sweeping, sobering account of how opium evolved into the synthetic opioids fueling today’s global crisis. With clarity and urgency, he explores the origins of morphine, the rise of Big Pharma, and the devastating consequences of unchecked prescription practices. Drawing on decades of scientific insight, Gold offers a roadmap for reform—calling for federal legislation, global cooperation, and new treatments that offer hope for addiction recovery.
ART
Takashi Murakami’s Ohana Hatake blooms at Selfridges London FLORAL STEP
akashi Murakami’s iconic smiling blooms have landed in London— this time underfoot. His footwear label Ohana Hatake opens a vibrant summer pop-up today at The Corner Shop in Selfridges, running through August 24. True to its name, which translates to “field of flowers,” the collection centers on bold, cushy EVA slides stamped with Murakami’s signature flower. While the artist is no stranger to merchandise and high-profile collaborations, Ohana Hatake marks his first full-fledged fashion label. The project debuted at ComplexCon Las Vegas in late 2024 and later bloomed in Hong Kong with a T
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www.brian-oglesby.com
$16.99 Paperback 978-1967421251
$29.99 Hardback 978-1967421268
$9.99 eBook
In this powerful and eye-opening new edition of Progressives, Leftists, and Black America, author Brian Oglesby returns with an expanded and updated analysis of the real-world impact progressive policies have had on Black communities in the United States. With added chapters, refined arguments, and timely reflections on recent political and cultural shifts, this edition takes the conversation deeper than ever before. Oglesby unapologetically confronts the widely accepted belief that progressive and leftist ideologies have been beneficial to Black Americans. Instead, he offers a well-reasoned critique, exposing how decades of liberal policy-making have eroded family structures, weakened educational systems, and fostered generational dependence on government programs. From the breakdown of the nuclear family to the rise of identity politics, this book challenges readers to examine the unintended consequences of political loyalty and ideological conformity. This edition includes new material analyzing recent national events, shifts in party platforms, and the cultural narrative surrounding race, equity, and justice. Oglesby also addresses how faith, entrepreneurship, and personal responsibility can serve as pathways toward lasting empowerment and liberation. Passionate, data-driven, and deeply personal, Progressives, Leftists, and Black America is more than a political critique-it's a rallying cry for intellectual independence, cultural restoration, and a renewed vision for the future of Black America.
Whether you're a policymaker, educator, activist, or everyday citizen, this book will challenge your assumptions and expand your perspective.
ART
“True to its name, which translates to “field of flowers,” the collection centers on bold, cushy EVA slides stamped with Murakami’s signature flower.” playful faux garden installation. London now gets its own version: saturated colors, oversized graphics, and a backdrop designed for photos. The lineup features two styles the Ohana Full-Bloom slide — plush and graphic-heavy and the Minimalist slip-on — inspired by Japanese house slippers, with embossed motifs and petal-dotted soles The Corner Shop—home to past pop-ups from Loewe, Celine, and Jacquemus—proves a fitting stage for Murakami’s playful universe. But like any bouquet, this one won’t last long. The installation is open from August 4 to 24 only. EC Source: Ohana Hatake
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$13.99 Paperback 978-1998784813
In 2057, when the world is starved of oil and the whole globe is in the unrelenting grip of the World Council, NYCPD detective Nick Garvey has his plate murderously full, contending with: the assassination of the Vice President and four Secret Service agents; the vicious power struggle between President Lenora Allison and the Supreme Leader of the World Council, Jason Beck; the off-duty avenging of the brutalization of his estranged daughter by her live-in thug; the kidnapping of his granddaughter when he gets too close to the truth about Jason Beck's world- domination dirty tricks; and his confrontation with President Lenora Allison which leads to their joint setup in front of a firing squad; but other than that...
TRENDS
oschino has never shied away from wit, and this season the house takes its humor to new heights with the debut of the Helmet Bag. Introduced as part of the brand’s playful accessories lineup, the piece makes no attempt to blend quietly into the background—it is as much a work of pop art as it is a handbag. Rendered in the glossy silhouette of a motorcycle helmet, the design is an instant provocation: equal parts camp, couture, and cultural commentary. It taps into fashion’s ongoing flirtation with objects repurposed as luxury, and positions Moschino once again at the forefront of the conversation about how far whimsy can coexist with craftsmanship. The Helmet Bag’s form is executed with almost cinematic detail. Its polished resin shell gleams under the light, resembling the sleek lacquer of an actual motorbike helmet, while subtle leather trim provides a tactile counterbalance. Inside, a removable leather pouch grounds the object in utility, proving that Moschino’s surrealism still carries a heartbeat of practicality. But it is the chin strap—a detail faithfully borrowed from the original helmet—that transforms the bag into a masterstroke. Reengineered as a top handle, complete with a fully functional buckle closure, it turns irony into ingenuity, making the piece both wearable and witty. The result is not merely a handbag, but a visual pun: a wink to those who recognize Moschino’s long tradition of irreverence. Part of what makes the Helmet Bag so compelling is its layered symbolism. The motorcycle helmet has long stood for speed, freedom, and counterculture cool—a cultural artifact tied to rebellion and risk. By reimagining it as a glossy luxury bag, Moschino subverts that M
Moschino Turns The Motorcycle Helmet Into a Bag RUNWAY IRONY
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$13.99 Paperback
979-8896901143
$6.99 eBook
$19.95 Audiobook
It is 2058. NYPD detective Nick Garvey and Lenora Allison, President of the battered and reeling United States, are battling the many remnants of the murderous World Council. They must confront the forced introduction of a man-made, killer plague and the destruction of the newly created Friendship City.
President Allison succeeded in her fight to destroy the first plague only to learn a second more deadly one was imminent.
Ishmael, the mysterious new leader of the World Council, has decided to destroy Friendship City, an autonomous joining of Brownsville, Texas and Matamoros, Mexico, where the citizens are developing their own protective Bill of Rights.
President Allison asks Nick to fly from Houston, where his daughter is recovering from a coma, to the White House to help in the fight.
Can the second plague be destroyed? Why is Friendship City spiraling into chaos? Can Ishmael be destroyed?
Nick wrestles to find Ishmael but Ishmael finds him first. Capturing Nick, President Allison, Nick's family, and all others in his way, he forces them to sit in a circle, surrounded by rifles. Ishmael starts his countdown.
TRENDS
narrative, turning a symbol of grit into one of glamour. The gesture reflects the house’s DNA: founded by Franco Moschino in the 1980s as a critique of fashion’s self- seriousness, the brand has always thrived on satire, parody, and playful excess. The Helmet Bag continues that legacy, marrying surrealist humor with technical precision, reminding us that fashion can be both clever and covetable. The piece also resonates with the current mood in fashion, where accessories have increasingly become vehicles for storytelling. In a landscape saturated with functional minimalism, Moschino’s Helmet Bag offers a refreshing injection of drama and delight. It stands The Helmet Bag continues that legacy, marrying surrealist humor with technical precision, reminding us that fashion can be both clever and covetable. as a conversation starter—an accessory that demands explanation and admiration in equal measure. One can imagine it on the arm of a street style star outside Paris Fashion Week, or perched like sculpture in the corner of a collector’s wardrobe. At once practical and surreal, it invites its wearer not only to carry essentials but also to carry irony, to embody the Moschino ethos of living with tongue firmly in cheek. Priced at $2,895 and now available at Moschino.com, the Helmet Bag blurs the line between handbag and objet d’art. For the house, it is not simply an accessory launch but a manifesto: proof that fashion’s capacity for wit and provocation remains alive and well. In a world that often asks luxury to be serious, Moschino insists on laughter, delight, and the audacity to make the ordinary extraordinary. EC
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$8.99 Paperback 978-1966972181 $16.99 Hardback 978-1966972426
You is a poetic memoir that dares readers to look inward. Spanning over five decades of writing, Vane Lashua blends personal essays, political reflections, and lyrical meditations into a deeply intimate exploration of identity, memory, and meaning. Inspired by a formative encounter with W.H. Auden’s poetry, Lashua invites us to confront the “overfamiliar dense companion” within—ourselves. Across 75 chapters, the book meanders through childhood recollections, lost love, friendships, patriotism, and the quiet revelations found in nature and everyday life. Whether deconstructing gravity as a metaphor for connection or racing to catch a train in a moment of suburban chaos, Lashua’s voice is both whimsical and profound. You is not a traditional memoir—it’s a mirror, a reckoning, and a love letter to the unpredictable beauty of being human.
TRENDS
LOEWE Perfumes Brings Scent to Canvas with Ignasi Monreal SCENT VISION
OEWE Perfumes has enlisted Spanish artist Ignasi Monreal to reimagine five of its cult-favorite candles, transforming fragrance into a visual medium. The collaboration turns the house’s Home Scents line—Ivy, Tomato, Marijuana, Beetroot, and Oregano—into digital paintings that invite viewers to not just smell, but see scent. Rather than illustrating the candles literally, Monreal captures their L
LOEWE’s vision of craft pushed into the contemporary. Having previously collaborated with the brand on ready-to- wear campaigns, the artist now extends LOEWE Perfumes into a more imaginative register, where scent becomes story, and candles unfold into immersive worlds. By bringing art into its olfactory universe, LOEWE underscores its pursuit of fragrance as a holistic experience: not simply worn or lit, but lived, seen, and felt. EC Source: fashionography
atmosphere. Ivy coils thick and wild around terracotta, suggesting growth overtaking structure. Tomato ignites in flames, more heat than harvest. Marijuana reflects back in mirrored symmetry, playing with perception. Beetroot exhales smoke that curls into LOEWE’s anagram. Oregano, by contrast, rests softly in pastel pools, its flame calmly centered. Monreal’s signature style—a dialogue between classical painting and digital realism—aligns seamlessly with
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$25.99 Paperback 978-1685568139
$9.99 eBook
$19.95 Audiobook
WHY SHOULD I READ THIS BOOK? THIS BOOK WILL HELP YOU BE READY FOR THE TIMES WE LIVE IN NOW!
Are you ready for what's already happening? Forerunner of the mark of the beast, 666, is here Microchipping humans-all your information on something the size of a rice grain Financial collapse, cashless society, one world order, one world religion
COVID-19, Delta, Omnicron, B1 & B2 Variants, and monkeypox Satan, Antichrist, and the False Prophet are already among us Rapture of the Christian Church-soon!
Global food & water shortages War on Israel for total destruction Seven-year Tribulation & Second Coming of Christ One thousand years of Millennial Reign & The Great White Throne of Judgment
TRENDS
Marc Jacobs Enters the Low Profile Sneaker Game COURT CLASSIC
arc Jacobs steps confidently into the low-profile sneaker market with the introduction of the 72 Spring, a court-inspired silhouette anchoring the brand’s Fall 2025 is elevated by a sturdy rubber sole and a dual-density insole that focuses on comfort and support, making it an easy everyday option that doesn’t sacrifice style. More than just another retro-leaning release, the 72 Spring captures the brand’s nuanced approach to reinterpreting classics for a contemporary audience. M collection. Designed to bridge lifestyle wear and performance sensibility, the sneaker reflects Jacobs’ ability to balance nostalgia with modern versatility. Its streamlined form
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TRENDS
What sets the sneaker apart is the thoughtful range of materials and finishes that allow it to adapt across moods and wardrobes. The mesh with suede inserts introduces breathability and structure, perfect for active wearers seeking lightness. A full- suede option leans into tonal sophistication, offering a polished, monochromatic look ideal for dressed-up casual. For those drawn to bolder, sharper lines, stitched faux leather delivers a graphic edge, while the frayed denim finish adds a textured, lived-in casual appeal that reflects current fashion’s embrace of imperfections. The carefully chosen palette amplifies this versatility—starting with understated shades of white and black for timeless wear, then expanding into daring hues like daisy yellow multi and raspberry pink multi for those who want their sneakers to stand out as style statements. The launch also arrives at a moment when low-cut, vintage-inspired sneakers dominate both retail shelves and designer runways, placing Marc Jacobs in the center of the cultural dialogue surrounding footwear. By referencing classic court shoes but stripping them back with Jacobs’ signature refinement, the 72 Spring delivers a look that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Beyond footwear, the sneaker becomes a key player in the brand’s larger Fall 2025 campaign, styled alongside signature bags and ready-to-wear pieces, reinforcing its position not just as a shoe but as an integrated part of the Marc Jacobs aesthetic. Available now at marcjacobs. com and select boutiques, the 72 Spring underscores the house’s continued expansion into lifestyle categories while remaining rooted in its playful yet polished design DNA. It’s more than just a sneaker—it’s a new step in how Marc Jacobs frames everyday essentials as fashion-driven icons. EC
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Bertha The Ordinary Chicken is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the quiet strength and emotional depth of one seemingly ordinary hen. Inspired by Danna Southwell’s real-life love of raising chickens, the story gently explores themes of belonging, rejection, and unconditional love. Through Bertha’s journey, young readers discover that even the most overlooked among us carry wisdom, warmth, and the power to nurture. With tender illustrations and a message that resonates across generations, this book reminds us that being “ordinary” can be truly extraordinary.
$15.99 Paperback 979-8893914849
LIFE HACKS
How a Temporary Break From Alcohol Eased My Anxiety SOBER CLARITY
never thought much about how closely alcohol and anxiety were linked in my life. To me, a drink was simply part of the routine—a glass of wine while cooking dinner, cocktails at a friend’s birthday, a beer after a long week. It was normal, harmless, and often even celebrated. But behind that casual habit, I started to notice something: the more I drank, the less at ease I actually felt. WHEN RELAXATION BACKFIRED At first, I thought alcohol was helping me relax. After all, it softened my edges at the end of a stressful day. But hours later, I would find myself lying awake in bed, my heart pounding, my mind racing through imaginary worries. The mornings were worse—groggy, tense, and already behind on the day. Instead of easing my stress, alcohol seemed to magnify it once the haze wore off. That realization came quietly, in small moments. One Sunday morning, after what was supposed to be a “fun night out,” I sat on my couch with a pounding head and an anxious chest, asking myself: Why I didn’t decide to quit drinking forever. I just wanted to press pause. A month off, I told myself. Nothing drastic, just an experiment. The first week was the hardest— not because I craved alcohol, but because I noticed how automatic the habit had become. Sitting down to dinner felt strange without a glass in hand. Saying no at social gatherings felt awkward at first. But the awkwardness passed quickly, and something else started to replace it. do I keep doing this? PRESSING PAUSE I
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$19.95 Paperback 979-8890437426 Howl and Listen is a gripping true story of personal collapse, spiritual defiance, and the unforeseen consequences of a desperate cry for justice. When a veteran insurance broker loses his business, his marriage, and his faith, he challenges God to step aside—demanding a confrontation with evil itself. But in a universe governed by free will, his words carry weight, and what he asks for, he receives. Raw and emotionally charged, Darrell Bacon’s memoir explores the power of spoken words, the reality of spiritual warfare, and the mercy that waits when we finally choose to listen $29.95 Hardback 979-8890437433 $9.99 eBook $17.99 Audiobook
LIFE HACKS
THE SURPRISING CALM By the second week, I was sleeping better than I had in years. The kind of sleep where you wake up and actually feel rested, not like you’ve been dragging yourself through the night. With better rest came sharper mornings, clearer thoughts, and—most surprisingly—less anxiety. I hadn’t realized how much alcohol had been fueling the very thing I was trying to quiet. Without it, my mood felt steadier. The constant background hum of unease dimmed. Even when stressful situations came up, I found myself handling them with a calmer head. I hadn’t realized how much alcohol had been fueling the very thing I was trying to quiet. Without it, my mood felt steadier. A NEW KIND OF CONNECTION Social events became a revelation. I worried at first that I’d feel left out, but the opposite happened. Without alcohol, I felt more present. Conversations stuck with me. I remembered the jokes, the little details, the genuine connections. I didn’t stumble through goodbyes or wake up the next morning piecing together the night. Instead, I left feeling lighter, not drained. WHAT THE BREAK TAUGHT ME That one-month pause showed me something I couldn’t unlearn: alcohol wasn’t helping me cope, it was holding me back. I didn’t decide to give it up entirely, but I did learn to approach it differently. When I do choose to drink now, it’s with intention, not out of habit. Most importantly, I found a new tool for my anxiety—not a substance, but a practice of listening to what my body and mind actually need. And sometimes, what they need most is simply a break. EC
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PROGNOSIS: DISASTER SECOND EDITION is a book about human induced environmental change and disease. Climate change, global warming and deforestation threaten human, animal, and plant populations with diseases more virulent than previously known. Most of this book deals with diseases influenced by climate change and how humans influence their creation and spread. This book will be useful as a reference on disease and environmental science, and as a call to action. Unless we take active measures now to stop pollution and greed, all life on the planet is doomed.
$43.99 Paperback 979-8893891379
$50.99 Hardback 979-8893566017
$3.99 eBook
LIVING
A French architect’s 657-square-foot apartment prioritizes stylish entertaining, blending compact design with clever details that make every gathering feel expansive. STONE CHIC
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Calacatta marble saturate the kitchen and bathroom, their tactile richness balancing the Haussmann moldings, cornices, and fireplace. Mirrors bounce light across beige-painted walls, amplifying depth and drama. The salvaged herringbone parquet leads into a culinary space that feels more like a chic Parisian brasserie—anchored by a quartzite-topped island framed in dark oak. “It had to feel graphic and elevated, but still light,” Rubel says.
three rooms into two. The result: an open kitchen facing the living room, cleverly doubling as a sleek bar. “The idea was to maximize the sense of space,” she explains. A mirrored archway now echoes the arched windows, softening the transition from entryway to salon while blending historic charm with contemporary edge. Natural materials define the transformation. Brazilian quartzite and
n the heart of Paris, Juliette Rubel has mastered the art of living beautifully in small spaces. Her 657-square- foot Haussmann-style apartment on Boulevard Richard Lenoir is less a pied-à-terre and more a stage for stylish entertaining, layered in stone, mirrors, and a touch of 1970s glam. An architect and interior designer by trade, Rubel stripped the apartment down to its bones, reimagining I
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LIVING
Function meets finesse in her custom bench, which hides radiators, frames the apartment’s three windows, and morphs into casual seating for dinner parties. The dining table slides along it—an ingenious touch for a space where every inch matters. The quartzite resurfaces again on tabletops, floors, and walls, creating continuity through repetition. In the bathroom, Rubel fell for an imperfect slab of Calacatta marble, its bold beige-and-brown veining setting the mood. Paired with copper fixtures and waxed concrete, it’s a sensual retreat softened by smoked and rounded mirrors that riff on the apartment’s arches. The eclectic mix includes a Willy Rizzo coffee table, Verner Panton lighting, and a luminous Guy Bareff wall sculpture, all weaving into Rubel’s narrative of curves, lines, and playful geometry. Yet it’s not all neutral restraint. Rubel’s penchant for mauve steals the show: a lilac sofa and rug anchor the living room, glowing differently as daylight shifts. Pops of orange and green—in Saarinen chairs, a Gérard Schlosser painting, and sculptural lamps—inject a daring 1970s spirit. The eclectic mix includes a Willy Rizzo coffee table, Verner Panton lighting, and a luminous Guy Bareff wall sculpture, all weaving into Rubel’s narrative of curves, lines, and playful geometry. The effect? A home that feels larger than life despite its modest square footage, and undeniably Parisian: chic, intimate, and forever ready to entertain. EC
Source: Architectural Digest
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FEATURE
Explore the capital’s 12 cities—each with its own blend of history, culture, cuisine, and modern thrills waiting for you to discover. METRO MANILA UNCOVERED
eyond the turquoise seas and sun-kissed shores, the Philippines hides a dazzling secret: its heart beats strongest in the metropolis. Metro Manila isn’t just a layover— it’s a living, breathing canvas of history, gastronomy, and electric energy. From cobblestone streets and centuries-old churches to avant-garde art spaces, fashion- forward cafés, and rooftop soirées, this megacity has layers begging to be peeled. Whether you’re a culture connoisseur, foodie, or night owl, the capital will seduce you—one city at a time. QUEZON CITY: THE TRENDSETTER’S PLAYGROUND Scout Area Start in the buzzing Scout district, where every corner tempts with inventive plates and chic watering holes. By nightfall, Tomas Morato transforms into a cocktail lover’s dream, serving everything from gin botanicals to neon-lit parties. Maginhawa Street Whimsical cafés, artisanal desserts, and foodie-approved gems line this street like pearls on a string. Perfect for guilt-free grazing and casual gig nights courtesy of indie acts. MANILA: THE SOUL OF THE CITY National Museum of Fine Arts A trove of national treasures, from 19th- century masterworks to contemporary statements. Think Luna, Amorsolo, and more—curated to perfection. Arroceros Forest Park An emerald oasis in the chaos—a 2.2-hectare urban lung alive with over 3,000 trees and chirping avian residents. Intramuros History, but make it Instagrammable. Cobblestone lanes lead to gothic cathedrals, baroque forts, and photogenic courtyards. B
11th World Scout Jamboree Memorial Rotunda photo by JL San Pedro
Al fresco dining at Uptown
BGC
An aerial view of Manila Bay
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EC Magazines | Manila Edition 2025
www. reform ministry .com
In The Road Back To Kindness , Diane Ehrlich tells the gripping true story of Jennifer and her two grown children, who flee years of emotional and physical abuse. With their bank account drained and nowhere to turn, their survival hinges on a stranger’s timely intervention. This modern-day parable of the Good Samaritan explores the power of empathy, the reality of domestic violence, and the spiritual road each of us must choose—one paved with compassion, or one with cruelty.
$3.99 eBook
$7.99 Audiobook
$10.95 Paperback 979-8282996302
FEATURE
MAKATI: THE LUXE LABYRINTH Poblacion Makati after dark? All roads lead to Poblacion. From speakeasy-style lounges to bars that stay up with you till sunrise, this is the capital of cool. Ayala Museum Step into a dialogue between past and present—63 handcrafted dioramas narrate the nation’s story, while fine art lends the space a quiet gravitas. Makati Cinema Square A retro haunt for hobbyists and collectors. Think vinyl, thrift gems, and military curios—plus an enclave of Japanese eats just outside. LAS PIÑAS: THE SOUND OF HERITAGE St Joseph Parish Church The home of the legendary Bamboo Organ—a marvel of 19th-century craftsmanship that still fills the air with its hauntingly beautiful hymns. PARAÑAQUE: GREEN MEETS GRIT Parqal Mall A breath of fresh air—literally. This architectural stunner fuses open skies with boutique streetscapes for the ultimate weekend stroll. Las Piñas–Parañaque Wetland Park Birdwatcher’s paradise meets ecological jewel. Two islands, lush mangroves, and lagoons—but don’t forget your DENR permit. TAGUIG: THE POWER DISTRICT Bonifacio High Street Retail therapy meets alfresco elegance. Wide walkways, art installations, and weekend street closures make it the city’s favorite catwalk. Uptown The after-dark alter ego of BGC—high-octane nightlife in sleek, glass-wrapped spaces. PASAY: MANILA’S SHOWSTOPPER Manila Baywalk Catch the golden hour with Manila Bay as your backdrop. For the full cinematic experience, ride the SM MOA Eye and drink in a skyline bathed in amber. Cultural Center of the Philippines Where ballet pirouettes meet symphonic crescendos. The CCP remains the country’s cultural crown jewel.
Bridgetowne central park
Parqal Mall
Santuario del Cristo Parish in San Juan City
Festival Mall in Muntinlupa City
Lopez Memorial Museum in Pasay
Museo ng Muntinlupa
EC Magazines | Manila Edition 2025 40
La Mesa Eco Park in QC
Headaches: Why You Have Them, What You Can Do About Them by Dr. Egilius L.H. Spierings is a definitive guide for anyone seeking clarity, relief, and empowerment in the face of chronic headache pain. Drawing on over four decades of clinical, academic, and research expertise, Dr. Spierings—an internationally respected neurologist and pharmacologist—breaks down the science behind migraine, tension headache, cluster headache, and face pain. With a compassionate and accessible tone, he explains the neurological, psychological, and lifestyle factors that contribute to headache, while offering practical, evidence-based strategies for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management.
$29.95 Hardback 979-8887319223
$9.99 eBook
FEATURE
The facade of the Ayala Museum in Makati City (photo from The Ayala Foundation)
PASIG: THE URBAN OASIS Bridgetowne Central Park
Lush green meets striking steel. The park’s centerpiece? A towering 55-meter sculpture by Jefrë—perfect for your next artsy photo op. Lopez Museum and Library A sanctuary for the literary and art-inclined, featuring rare maps, Rizal’s writings, and works by Luna and Hidalgo. MANDALUYONG: THE QUIET CHIC Greenfield District A lifestyle pocket where cafés, open parks, and specialty gyms coexist in harmony. Bonus: Megamall and Shangri-La are a heartbeat away. SAN JUAN: THE TIMEKEEPER Pinaglabanan Shrine Park Jog past history—this green expanse commemorates the 1896 Revolution, flanked by museums echoing with Katipunan lore. Santuario del Santo Cristo Parish A relic of faith and fortitude, rebuilt time and again since the 1600s. Its centuries-old image of Santo Cristo still draws pilgrims in waves. MUNTINLUPA: THE SOUTHERN SOPHISTICATE Museo ng Muntinlupa Inspired by the humble salakab, this five- story space narrates a city’s transformation from lakeside fishing village to modern hub. Festival Mall & Filinvest City Not your average mall day—this is retail, riverside parks, and concert grounds in one sprawling playground. VALENZUELA: THE HIDDEN GEM Tagalag Fishing Village Bucolic bliss in the metro’s edge—cast a line, birdwatch, or simply unplug by the water. Museo Valenzuela Colonial architecture meets patriotic pride in this museum dedicated to revolutionary
The Bamboo Organ in the Saint Joseph Parish Church (photo by Philippine Information Agency)
The facade of the Cultural Center of the Philippines
The main gate of Fort Santiago in Manila, Philippines (photo by Jui-Chi Chan, GettyImages)
The facade of the National Museum of Fine Arts (photo by National Museum Gov)
The Nian Gao Cocktail at the Spirits Library in Poblacion
The Pinaglabanan Shrine
Valenzuela City Family Park
Wanderland at the Filinvest City Events Grounds
hero Dr. Pio Valenzuela. WHY METRO MANILA?
Because in this pulsating archipelago, the islands can wait. The capital is calling—and she’s dressed to impress. EC
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EC Magazines | Manila Edition 2025
The coming-out process has taught a gay man many lessons that are useful throughout his life. This book details the depth and range of these lessons which in combination with many of the unique life experiences, the gay man is actually well-prepared to successfully deal with his entrance into middle age and beyond. The sequential exercises facilitate a focused path for successful aging in comparison with other books on this topic. This book is unique in its exploration of the coming-out process and its relevance for a lifetime of successful aging. Though originally written and published in 2000 for gay men, the subsequent public response has shown that the exercises and the principles of aging are applicable to all people.
$ 21.00 Paperback
605 pages
$ 3.99 eBook
9798218071196
EC Magazines | London-Tucson Edition 2022 29
From nuclear engineer to joyful priest, Fr. Mark Lawlor’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this heartfelt collection of reflections, discover the quiet miracles, humorous detours, and profound lessons that shaped a life of service. Whether you're discerning your own path or simply seeking inspiration, these stories will uplift your spirit and remind you: joy is found not just in the destination, but in the walk itself.
$10.00 Paperback 979-8446346691
$8.00 eBook
$19.95 Audiobook
$12.95 Paperback 978-1098078317
Drawing from over fifty years of prayerful writing, My Life in Poetry and Love: Volume 1 is Gail Bard Coussoule’s heartfelt anthology of faith-based verses. Inspired by her encounters with friends, family, and strangers, Coussoule offers poems and prayers that speak to the power of divine grace, compassion, and spiritual resilience. Through ballroom dancing, volunteer work, and the joys and trials of family life, she found herself called to share God’s consoling message. This collection is a gentle companion for anyone seeking comfort, inspiration, and a deeper connection with their faith.
Who am I and why should you read my story? My name is Max Faraday. Nobody is going to believe me, but here I am putting it all down on paper. I am a man of two time periods. Forgive me, this sci-fi stuff is new to me.
A week or more ago, in July 2002, I came home for my 1982 high school class reunion. I was staying with my friend Jamie Scott and his family. On the way home from the reunion, we picked up his kids at the babysitter. Their little girl comes out and bounces a ball that tumbles out of her hands into the street. Just as we arrived, a car speeds up and my instincts take over. I pick her up and get her out of the way, but I was then hit by the speeding car! Stunned, I wake up in September 1978! I am a thirty-eight-year-old man in a fourteen-year-old's body! I can't tell anyone, or they would lock me up, thinking I'm crazy! I know I would.
So here I am in the eighth grade all over again. When I went to bed in 1978, I woke up in a coma in 2002, wondering about the driver who ran me over.
$14.99 Paperback
979-8893303308
$3.99 eBook
What happens when faith is weaponized? In this powerful memoir, Jim Valekis shares his journey from spiritual captivity to divine clarity. The Christian in the Cult is a wake-up call for anyone questioning the difference between religion and relationship—and a beacon of hope for those seeking Christ’s compassion beyond control.
$17.99 Paperback 978-1959658207
$32.99 Hardback 978-1637462478
$19.95 Audiobook
$8.99 eBook
Jim Valekis
$8.99 Paperback 979-8893916539
$15.99 Hardback 979-8893916546
$8.99
eBook
www.kellysbooknook.com
$15.00 Paperback 978-9363312678
Where every choice leads to a new reality, the concept of love and self-discovery takes on a whole new dimension... This captivating collection of poems follows a couple's journey across the globe, exploring the mysteries and ecstasies of love. Through their adventures, they confront loss, heartbreak, and disappointment, yet also embrace passion, hope, and the drive for change. Both advocates for a better world, their connection transcends the present, revealed through visions of their shared past lives and the intensity of their bond. Despite the recurring challenges they face in this lifetime, the narrator finds solace in the belief that their love endures across infinite timelines in this multiverse of endless possibilities. Through moments of despair and joy, the poems reflect a journey that's both timeless and uniquely profound.
Kelly Mowers
TRAVEL
Plucking tea leaves
From rolling tea hills and exotic gardens to jungle paths and tropical splendour, Sri Lanka reveals a beauty far beyond its famed beaches. VERDANT DREAMS by Rupert Parker
EC Magazines | Manila Edition 2025 54
A nod to Bevis legal family background
Stone steps lead to secret spots
their slopes dotted with shrines. On palm leaves, we etched words the way scribes once did centuries ago—an art form that felt like a whisper from the past. In jungle mud huts, women coaxed flavour from turmeric and tamarind, their curries rich with generations of memory. At Hiriwadunna, we drifted across a lotus- speckled reservoir in slender banana boats, fashioning sunhats from lily pads as if playing a part in a timeless ritual. Trincomalee offered its own theatre of devotion. At Koneswaram Temple, the sea crashed below cliffs as worshippers lit lamps to Shiva. Nearby, Tamil families welcomed us at Kanniya’s hot springs, their laughter mingling with the steam. Jaffna was a
ea, sun, and sand were not on the itinerary. Instead, “A Road Less Travelled” became our mantra. While the island basked in 30-degree heat, we veered inland,
mountains, rainforests dripping with green, coastal lagoons shimmering under the sun, and fertile plains where elephants still command the road. At every turn, there was human warmth to match the island’s natural generosity. Smiles greeted us, hands extended in hospitality, and the sense of belonging was immediate. RITUALS AND REVERENCE Our journey was punctuated with moments of profound stillness and joy. At Ridi Viharaya, an ancient Buddhist site, we sat cross-legged in a rock cave, meditating with a monk who spoke of impermanence and peace. Outside, the hills swelled with light,
S
trading the languor of the coast for the drama of peaks and plains, the intimacy of temples and gardens, and the pulse of a culture rooted deep in tradition. We began in Colombo and wound our way through the island’s cultural heart, heading northeast to Trincomalee before venturing north into Jaffna—still tender from its long civil war yet vibrantly alive. The return south along the western coast stitched together landscapes as varied as they were spellbinding: mist-veiled
EC Magazines | Manila Edition 2025 55
TRAVEL
revelation—markets fragrant with jackfruit, tables set with fiery crab curries, and streets where resilience itself seemed to walk alongside us. WILD ENCOUNTERS Sri Lanka’s wild heart beats loudest in Wilpattu National Park. From open jeeps, we traced jungle paths, our eyes adjusting to glimpses of bee-eaters darting like emeralds, and the shaggy silhouette of a sloth bear lumbering through the undergrowth. By night, the wetlands came alive with shadows: fruit bats wheeling against the stars, fishing cats slinking through reeds, and the elusive grey slender loris flashing in torchlight. At every turn, there was human warmth to match the island’s natural generosity. Smiles greeted us, hands extended in hospitality, and the sense of belonging was immediate. One morning, on the A6 highway, everything stopped. A herd of elephants emerged from the forest, calves sheltered between the legs of their mothers. Traffic waited in reverent silence as they crossed— an everyday miracle, yet unforgettable. GARDENS OF LEGACY If Sri Lanka is a living Eden, its gardens are its crown jewels. The Royal Botanic Gardens near Kandy, established in 1371 and reimagined under British hands, stretch across 147 acres of grandeur. Towering tropical trees shelter walkways, orchids bloom in delicate profusion, and borders of colour unfurl like brushstrokes across the landscape. Tea plantations roll into emerald waves, spice gardens perfume the air, and untamed tropical groves tangle with life. Yet it is in the private gardens of visionaries that the island’s most beguiling stories unfold. An hour from Colombo lies Brief Garden, the fantastical creation of Bevis Bawa. What began as a rubber estate was
On safari in Hurulu Eco Park
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EC Magazines | Manila Edition 2025
transformed over four decades into a labyrinth of “garden rooms” connected by winding paths. Sculptures, fountains, and follies punctuate the dense greenery: a Japanese moon gate, a Bacchus bird bath, a whimsical homoerotic figure peering mischievously from behind bamboo. The house at its heart feels alive with memory. Murals by artist Donald Friend depict Sri Lankan traditions in vivid strokes; books, photographs, and objets d’art capture the bohemian spirit of its creator. Here, Bevis entertained the world—avant- garde artists, literati, Hollywood legends like Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh, and even Queen Ingrid of Denmark. His humour, irreverence, and eye for beauty linger still, as if he might step out from behind a hedge with a sly grin. Nearby is Lunuganga, the country estate of Geoffrey Bawa—Bevis’s younger brother and one of Asia’s most influential architects. Where Brief is playful and eccentric, Lunuganga is lyrical and refined, a symphony of garden and architecture in perfect balance. Together, the two estates form a dialogue of creativity that continues to inspire Calamansi Cove Villas in Balapitiya. Inspired by Dooland de Silva, Bevis’s protégé, and later his son Dan, this sanctuary merges tropical design with ecological sensitivity. Villas are tucked into groves of palms and flowering araliya, mango and jackfruit trees, while King coconuts rise like guardians against salt and wind. The very name—Calamansi— evokes freshness. Its small citrus fruit, beloved in the Philippines, greets guests as a welcome drink, tart and sunlit, perfectly capturing the spirit of the place. Here, biodiversity is restored, privacy preserved, and the rhythm of coastal life flows with effortless grace. The Green Embrace generations. BY THE SEA The lineage extends to the coast at Sri Lanka is often remembered for its golden beaches, yet its true soul lies inland—in its gardens, forests, temples, and the generosity of its people. To walk its paths is to be enveloped in green, in history, in ritual, in flavour. It is to witness a landscape both ancient and ever-renewing.More than a destination, Sri Lanka is an embrace: lush, layered, and infinitely alive. EC
Entrance to Brief mural by Donald-Friend
The beach at Balapitiya
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