From a host in local TV variety show to a lead starrer in a top-rating television series, Dabawenya actress Bangs Garcia is definitely making a significant leap in Philippine showbiz. In the latest edition of M (Life and Living in Mindanao) Magazine, Bangs bares her hits and misses, her triumphs and ordeals as she continues to pursue her dreams.

Joining Bangs in the pages of M Magazine’s ninth issue are esteemed Mindanawon civic leaders, Atty. Leoncio “Nonoy” Villa Abrille and Irene “Inday” Morada Santiago; together with Sulu’s top visual artist, Rameer Amilasan Tawasil; and Indonesian Consul General Lalu Malik Partanawa, who shares his country’s longtime friendship with Mindanao.

Thrilled to travel around Mindanao? Get some tips on where and what’s new to explore on the island, such as wakeboarding in Mindanao’s first wakeboard park; nature-tripping in Lake Sebu; conquering the peak of Bukidnon’s Mt. Kitanglad; braving the wild waters of Cagayan de Oro; making a stopover at Tandag City; or joining the epic voyage of the Balangays.

Flip through the fashion section and be mesmerized by award-winning photographer Rhonson Ng’s underwater glam shots of Davao’s top mannequins; and Niko Villegas’ dazzling images, featuring the gem-inspired designs of Egay Ayag, Joao Tarepe, Patahian, and Argento de Salvador, as modeled by Mutya ng Dabaw 2010 Janelle Tee. What’s more, Davao’s premier houses of style, Rue Chephri and Martish, unveil their latest chic and elegant collections of designer brands in this issue.

Also in this issue are fascinating pieces on Zamboanga’s sardine canning industry, Davao del Sur’s healthy coconut products, Butuan’s AQEM theater in education, plus a spotlight on Mindanao’s entertainment and wellness enclaves, parties and festive events, contemporary lifestyle, and many more.

M Magazine, Mindanao’s first and only travel and lifestyle quarterly publication, is available in all National Bookstore, Fully Booked, Power Books, Forewords, and Christian Ventures outlets; and in more than 200 bookstores and magazine stands nationwide. In Davao City, get your copies of M Magazine at Babasahin (Victoria Plaza, SM City, NCCC Mall, Gaisano Mall), MetroLifestyle Complex (Bo’s Coffee, Krua Thai, Metro Gym), National Bookstore (Gaisano Mall, SM City), Farfalla Pasta Bar, Gaisano Mall Supermarket, Lachi’s, Basti’s Coffee, Agencia Nina Jewelry (Victoria Plaza, JP Laurel, Bankerohan, Gaisano South, Gaisano Mall), ProMark and Davao Periodicals outlets.