As a nation colonized by the West, it’s no surprise that remnants of colonial mentality still exist, even if we’re able to develop positive customs and traits that we can call our own. From 1899 to 1946, the Philippines was colonized by the US and, before that, by Spain for more than 300 years. Though…
Metro Manila, otherwise known as the Philippines’ National Capital Region (NCR), is the country’s largest metropolitan area and home to the nation’s seat of power and commerce. Made up of 16 urbanized cities, the metropolis is the center of the country’s culture, education, and government, significantly impacting finance, commerce, media, technology, research, and education. Within…
Filipino street food is a vibrant and integral part of the country’s culinary landscape. You will find these delicious delicacies in urban centers and quiet provincial towns. The aroma of grilled meat, the sizzle of frying pans, and the colorful display of street vendors invite locals and tourists to indulge. In this guide, we shall…
When it comes to celebrating Christmas, no one can beat the Philippines. The yuletide-loving archipelago nation is best known for ushering in the Christmas season as early as September, playing Christmas tunes, and even decorating public spaces and homes with colorful lanterns and holiday decorations. Our penchant for the Christian holidays comes from the historical…
When visiting the major island of Luzon for the first time, most foreign and local tourists decide to book a flight to Manila and begin their journey from there. However, Clark International Airport has lately become a famous and convenient entry point that few travelers are familiar with. The airport is located in the bustling…
There’s something about a proper barong that brings out one’s inner elegance and poise. It’s a staple at weddings, debuts, and baptisms as an alternative to the tuxedo. It’s front and center at Senate hearings and Malacanang state dinners for foreign dignitaries. It can make even regular Filipinos look like influential VIPs in the right…
Any mention of Negros Occidental conjures up Bacolod chicken inasal and the famous Masskara Festival. But is the province only about the capital city and its smokey chicken delicacy? Or is there so much more when you step outside the city of smiles? The answer? A responding yes. Negros Occidental is more than just chicken…
Ancient martial arts techniques that have transcended through time, the world of Filipino martial arts has made its mark as one of the most effective close-combat techniques the world has ever known. Known for its adaptability, ingenuity, and fluidity of movements, FMA (Filipino Martial Arts) is practiced worldwide, incorporated in military training programs, and featured…
Churches are deeply woven into the fabric of Philippine culture, serving not only as places of worship but also as significant cultural landmarks. The influence of Christianity, particularly Roman Catholicism, is a cornerstone of Filipino identity, shaping the nation’s history, traditions from Lent to Christmas, and values that govern some of their daily lives. In…
Manila has solidified its position as one of the top destinations for after-dark entertainment after recently claiming the second spot in Time Out Travel’s list of the world’s best cities for nightlife. Known for its high-energy atmosphere and welcoming locals, the Philippine capital offers a nightlife experience unlike any other. Whether you’re a fan of…
In a testament to the Philippines’ natural beauty and global appeal, four of its islands have been named among the top 10 best islands in Asia in the prestigious 2024 Condé Nast Traveler (CNT) Readers’ Choice Awards. Boracay, Palawan, Cebu & the Visayan Islands, and Siargao all made the coveted list, chosen by over 500,000…
In a city like Manila, where coffee is the drink of choice for mid-afternoon snack times, afternoon tea is slowly becoming popular among the upscale crowd. Hotel lobby lounges have started offering afternoon tea to their guests, providing a relaxing alternative to crowded coffee shops around the metro. The concept of “afternoon tea” in the…
The Philippines is a nation with a rich cultural tapestry woven from centuries of history, where indigenous customs blend seamlessly with influences from various foreign cultures. This unique blend creates an identity that is distinctly Filipino, yet universally relatable. The cultural heritage of the Philippines is a living testament to the country’s dynamic history, where…
In today’s fast-paced world, the pursuit of work-life balance has become a growing concern, especially in countries where long working hours, low pay, and exhausting commutes are part of everyday life. Unfortunately, the Philippines has been identified as one of the worst countries in terms of work-life balance index, according to a study by Remote,…
While Filipinos are commonly known globally for their warm hospitality, resilience, rich cultural heritage, fantastic cuisine, and exceptional talent in arts and entertainment, Filipino designers are also gaining recognition in the global luxury fashion market with their remarkable creativity and craftsmanship that impress high-profile clients from European royalties to Hollywood celebrities. Brands like Aranáz, Filip…