In the first season of the TV talent show StarStruck, a young Filipina siren named Jennylyn Mercado captured the country’s attention when she took home the reality show’s first prize, giving her a taste of the stardom she would by this time be comfortably accustomed to. Since then her career has steadily followed the trajectory of a fireworks rocket as she released three albums from GMA Records and Viva Records that included popular hits such as “Sa Aking Panaginip,” “Moments Of Love,” a collaboration with Janno Gibbs, “Maybe This Time,” and “Kahit Sandali,” before she seamlessly merged into acting and subsequently garnered critical acclaim for her performances on television and film. Today, Jennylyn Mercado is arguably the biggest star in Philippine entertainment, or at the very least one of the biggest stars in the last five years. Her life has been an object of adoration, scrutiny, and desire for millions of Filipinos, who seem to obsess over her every move and share in the celebration of her success. In an exclusive interview with the superstar, HOLA! gets to know the person behind the celebrity, and indulges our readers with a truly inspiring story of triumph against all odds.

In another Hola! Exclusive, academy award-winning actress, Sandra Bullock introduces us to her beautiful adoptive children, Louis and Lalla. Sandra shares with us how she came to the decision to adopt again, the challenges she faced raising them, and what the future holds for their family.

Since this is the start of a brand new year, allow us to provide inspiration from successful personalities to help drive us for the next twelve months. First up is Sam Milby who has certainly come a long way from being a reality TV show star to being a singer and an actor, and is now celebrating 10 years in show business. Next is Ms. Philippines, Pia Wurtzbach who was recently crowned as the new Miss Universe after a 42-year wait for the title to be bestowed upon another Filipina. And rounding it up is Adele, who after three years makes a legendary return with an album that has won the hearts of fans the world over and quickly gaining a lot of new ones.

This year will definitely be another exciting year for fashion and design. Let us take a look at some of the most brilliant and creative minds who will usher in this year’s newest trends. We first take a look at Axel Dumas as he heads the iconic French luxury house Hermes and carries on more than 175 years of its legacy and passion for craftsmanship. We also get to chat with fashion designer Bettina Ocampo, once named by Elle.com as one of the “Most Stylish Women in New York,” and she shares with us how she is living her dream and conquering the fashion stage. Designer Alessandra Perez-Rubio chats with Hola! about her new label and how she culls inspiration from her roots and infuses traditional with modern touches in her fashion designs.

Finally, start the year right and look your absolute best as we give you the latest trends in fashion and design. We start off with renowned fashion brand Kate Spade, as their latest collection, doused with petal overlay designs and candied tones, ushers in the new season. Look amazing in the latest spring season inspired outfits, upgrade your style with the hottest accessories, and get to indulge in exquisite wine and jamon in one of the newest food places in town.

Don’t forget to grab a copy of this issue, as HOLA! Philippines offers a slice of the good life for only Php 195. HOLA! is available in both print and digital editions within Metro Manila and in key provincial retail outlets. Digital subscriptions are available via Zinio app for only $39.99/year, Buqo ₱1,799.00/year, and Magzter App for only ₱1872 /year; for print editions, e-mail subscriptions@holamag.ph. Follow HOLA! Philippines on Twitter and Instagram (@holamagph), join the conversation on Facebook (#holamagph), or visit ph.hola.com.