Theoretically Speaking

Behind every hit single is a musician’s career story. Filipino-American rapper DJ Virman of Far East Movement would know because he’s seen his fair share of chart-topping hits. Like any aspiring artists back in the day, his love for music expressed itself in the art of mixed-tapes, which landed him a career in the esteemed Power 106 radio station in L.A. Since then, he has spent years working in the music scene, alongside some of the most famous talents in rap and hip-hop known today. With so much insider-experience, DJ Virman dishes on some of the most surprising stories around musical hits, including their own international sensation “Like a G6”. Follow DJ Virman on IG at @virmizzle.

Filipino-American chef Erik Idos recounts his path into the culinary world, beginning with his rebellious childhood in L.A. and how he decided to pursue culinary school in San Francisco. It is in this sensorial world of cuisine that Erik found his vocation, which led to an amazing career at the prestigious Nobu 57. He started as the line cook, eventually working his way up to Executive Sous Chef at Nobu 57 San Diego, and finally to Executive Head Chef at Nobu Intercontinental Hong-Kong. Even after a decade into his successful career, Erik took a leap further by opening his very own restaurant chain Chino in Hong-Kong, and eventually in Manila. As Erik can attest, the job of a chef is exhausting and unglamorous; but if one truly loves their craft, everything is a blessing. Follow Erik on IG at @erikidos.

Hailing from Singapore, Amanda Scully goes by many accomplished accolades: brand builder, story-teller, and Maori healer. As one of the earliest purveyors of street-style culture, Amanda has immersed herself into the world of this vibrant, underground creative scene. In her early 20’s, she successfully co-founded the international clothing labels, the FALSE brand and Anti-Anti online store. Since then, she has made waves collaborating with multiple brands and talents. But despite the memorable highs and lows, the question remains for Amanda, “Who am I really?” The inquiry has since kicked-off Amanda’s journey into real self-healing, to unlock a life filled with more heart and intuition. Follow Amanda on IG at @amanda_scully.

Mong Alcaraz is a fixed name in the Philippine music and street-style scene. He is best known as the lead guitarist of bands ChicoSci, and Sandwich; the producer of social media video series Perea Street, plus the creative director and managing partner of D&D Custom Guitars. But before all that, he shares his humble, teen-drama laden beginnings as a struggling musician, filled with late-night gigs, brushes with metal music, and a lot of hard lessons. Within his story, a glimpse of the world in-between the CD generation, and the digital playlist age. Part nostalgia, and part motivational, Mong’s unique story is a musical artist’s hustle through the digital revolution, from musical albums, to hit singles, and finally to this “golden age of creativity”. Follow Mong on IG at @mongalcaraz.

In the Philippines, basketball is not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle, and oftentimes a dream to pursue. This holds true for Raoul Reinoso, Managing Director of SLAM Philippines, as well as the Co-Founder and Director of Special Projects at Titan, a unique lifestyle brand dedicated to the world of basketball. Prior to establishing Titan with his co-founders, Raoul worked as the Brand Connections Executive in Nike Philippines, and eventually, Nike South-East Asia, which he admits is the coveted position for most sports aficionados. But instead of sticking to his dream job, Raoul took the risk to pursue a dream business. This year, as Titan celebrates its 10th anniversary, he’s proved that big rewards come to those who shoot their shots. Follow Raoul on IG at @raoulreinoso.