Society darling, philanthropist, and multihyphenate Rocio Olbes-Ressano gave birth to twins just weeks before an enhanced community quarantine was imposed on Metro Manila and other regions in the Philippines. In conversation with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle’s AA Patawaran, she shares the best and the worst of her quarantine experience as well as her observations on human nature through the unfolding events of the pandemic. Motherhood is the latest of the many hats Rocio has been wearing and she took on the role of a new mother—and to twin sons!—under the most uncertain conditions, but of this role she is certain. “I don’t want my children to grow up in fear,” she says. “[Children must] grow up in an environment filled with joy, security, and happiness so that they can thrive. If I must explain what’s going on to my children, I would probably keep reiterating to them how safe they are.” #BeFullyInformed

For Cultural Center of the Philippines chairperson Margie Moran-Floirendo, the most valuable takeaway from the pandemic is that leaders must walk their talk. She explains that after a downturn, art companies can survive if their leaders are good crisis managers.

MB Lifestyle sub editor, Jane Kingsu-Cheng, chats with Ever Bilena's president and CEO, Dioceldo Sy, on the Filipino businessman's move to support his employees amid the enhanced community quarantine extension.  Mr. Sy had given all of his personnel their whole salary for April whether or not they reported to work. With this  bold and philanthropic gesture, we are reminded of author and spiritual master, Amit Ray's, quip, "In every crisis, doubt or confusion, take the higher path--the path of compassion, courage, understanding and love."

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