August 8, 2008 (08-08-08) is considered to be one of the luckiest dates in Chinese astrology as it brings together a lucky combination of three 8’s (the luckiest number in Chinese astrology) in a single date.

So, why is the number 8 considered lucky in the minds of Chinese people? The main reason has to do with the pronunciation of the word for the number 8 in China. It is pronounced “ba” and sounds like the word for prosperity which is pronounced “fa”. Another reason why the number 8 could be considered lucky is because it is a perfect symmetrical shape. You can cut the number 8 in half vertically or horizontally, and both halves mirror themselves perfectly. Perfect symmetry lends itself to perfect balance. In Chinese Astrology, perfect balance is considered the ideal. (Source: Online Chinese Astrology)

In consonance with this, I give to you a special post: Akihiro Macieira Sato. Akihiro is a 21-year old model of Japanese and Brazilian descent. The 6′1″-tall model has graced pages of several magazines in Thailand and is now taking Manila by storm. He is presently driving our local fashion industry at a frenzy – being cast for tv commercials, print ads and fashion shows left and right, making him one of the hottest commodities in the Philippines today. His career in the Philippines is currently being handled by Mercator Models.

Photo credits: one of the best photographers in the country – Niccolo Cosme