Are you single? Have your friends ever done anything about it? Well, this guy’s friends are definitely doing something about it. Apparently, RQ is quite a catch, and his friends don’t really understand why he’s still single. As such, they have taken it upon themselves to help him find the right one. How? By creating a slideshow and uploading it on the Internet, of course. (They even have hashtags: #BeTheOne and #RQTheOneForHim)

Mark Uy shares that he decided to come up with this project to simply help out his friend. “He’s a good catch yet every time we ask him, his answer is “I haven’t found the right one yet”,” he explains. “So, you know, as his friends, we believe that it’s our responsibility to help him out find #TheOne.”

The slides start out simply enough, with a call-to-action asking if you are looking for The One:

It then follows with a picture of RQ (@rdquilala on Instagram), 25 years old, 5’7″ from Manila, Philippines:

And then we get to the part on why you might want to date RQ. Aside from it being in time for Valentine’s Day, the slide promises that he won’t play you (coz his small eyes can only look at one person at a time), mentions that he graduated from Benilde, and that he loves music.

Other reasons are because he loves to travel (n case you need an Instagram boyfriend), has taught his dog some tricks (and can therefore teach you how to love), is adventurous, and can drive for you (without driving you crazy):

Of course, his friends are looking out for him, too, making sure that whoever applies fit their friend’s standards:

And because advance sila magisip, they’ve even prepared you for RQ’s mom:

Our favorite part? The testimonials! :p

Mark adds, “I simply aim to see my friend happy because he has so much love to give and just in time for Valentine’s, right?”

Should you be interested in applying (seriously – these guys are serious), you may send your profile along with three photos and links to your social media accounts to rqtheoneforhim@­gmail.com

The post LOOK: These Guys are Helping Their Friend Meet ‘The One’ Through a Slideshow appeared first on When In Manila.

The World Health Organization (WHO) annually releases a list of the top ten threats to global health. This is done to highlight areas which need attention and to outline the progress which can be done. In 2019, the list ranges from the impacts of physical activity to the impacts of the environment on our health.

Perhaps one of the most worrying is the anti-vax movement or ‘vaccine hesitancy’, as called by the WHO. They describe it as “the reluctance or refusal to vaccinate despite the availability of vaccines.” There are a number of reasons behind this but the most prominent is the belief that the vaccination might in some way harm the child. A particular theory is that vaccinations cause autism in children.

While no scientific proof has ever explicitly made that link, vaccines have been evidenced to prevent 2-3 million deaths a year. The WHO predicts 1.5 million more lives could be saved if vaccine coverage improved. Meanwhile, the rise of the anti-vax movement coincides with a 30% rise of measles cases globally.

The state of Washington has actually just declared a public health emergency due to an outbreak of measles. It is highly maintained that similar outbreaks are likely to happen all over the world this 2019 if individuals remain unvaccinated. Some speculate that the recent spread of the flu here in Manila is related to the weakened immune systems of those without vaccinations.

Other threats listed by the WHO are as follows: air pollution and climate change, noncommunicable diseases, global influenza pandemic, fragile and vulnerable regions, antimicrobial resistance, Ebola and other high-threat pathogens, weak primary health care, dengue, and HIV.

Where do you stand on the vaccine debate?

Sources: WHO

The post The anti-vax movement ranks as one of the biggest threats to global health in 2019 appeared first on When In Manila.

The Suicide Squad, a sequel to 2016’s Suicide Squad, seems to be getting more priority from Warner Bros. than we expected. Although the first movie appeared to have not gotten the momentum that most of us expected, the studio is enlisting Guardians of the Galaxy director James Gunn to create the script and direct the movie.

With Gunn on board, we can expect something different from the upcoming movie. Additionally, with the title The Suicide Squad, it seems that the studio is trying to distance the upcoming movie from the old one.

We hope that Gunn does more than just duplicate the success of Guardians of the Galaxy.

Regarding the cast, there are no confirmations yet but there are rumors that point to featuring of a new group of villains. In the past, it was expected that characters like Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), Joker (Jared Leto), and Deadshot (Will Smith) would return on the new movie. However, since the studio appears to be trying to move away from the first movie and with Robbie’s Harley Quinn taking a more central role in Birds of Prey, there is a possibility that they might not be back.

Still, with Harley Quinn as one of the most recognizable characters in the movie, it is still possible that she might be considered to appear in the movie.

The Suicide Squad is expected to hit movie theaters on August 6, 2021.

Anything to add to this story? Share your thoughts with us.

The post ‘Suicide Squad 2’ release date confirmed appeared first on When In Manila.

There are two companies in China that are offering a “dating leave” for their unmarried female employees. The leave consists of extra eight days off in addition to their seven-day Lunar New Year break.

On January 21, Hangzhou Songcheng Performance and Hangzhou Songcheng Tourism Management made an announcement about this kind of leave. They followed the initiative of Dinglan Experimental Middle School, which offered a “love leave” to its single and childless educators last January 15.

According to The South China Morning Post, the “dating leave” is for unmarried female employees above the age of 30 who are not “front-line workers.” The companies that offered the said leave operate the Song Dynasty Town tourist attraction. They rationalized that some of their female employees have less contact with people outside.

“The ratio of men to women in our company is about the same,” Huang Lei, human resources manager of Hangzhou Songcheng Performance, was quoted as saying.  “Women employees mostly work in internal functional departments and some are show performers… some female staff have less contact with the outside world.”

Huang also mentioned that the “dating leave” is intended to provide female employees with more opportunities to interact with the opposite sex. Apparently, this kind of leave turned out to be a good idea because as it was received warmly by the employees.

In China, unmarried women over 30 are commonly regarded as “leftover women” or “shengnu” due to long-held conservative beliefs that women who remain unmarried beyond their mid-twenties are less desirable to men. The “dating leave” somewhat gave a spotlight on the harsh marriage opportunity among these women.

Although well-received, one commenter asked who would date the single women on leave if the men weren’t given the same kind of leave as well.

Hmmm. Seems like a good point?

Also, do you think this would be applicable in the Philippines?

Anything to add to this story? Share your thoughts with us.

The post These companies offer ‘dating leave’ to single female employees appeared first on When In Manila.

Looks like the Fast and Furious franchise is still not over. Fast and Furious 9 is under development and it has been reported that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson won’t be part of it.

Apparently, the actor is busy with another film, Hobbs and Shaw.

With this, looks like the producers of Fast and Furious 9 won’t have to deal with the drama of Tyrese Gibson walking if they choose The Rock over him. For those who aren’t aware of this, apparently, Tyrese gave an ultimatum of either him or The Rock on the next Fast and Furious movie.

View this post on Instagram

Hello world………. hello loyal fans and loved ones from OUR fast universe…….. I’m sorry to announce that if Dewayne is in Fast9 there will no more Roman Peirce – You mess with family and my daughters survival I mess with yours……… close your eyes dude you’re a “Clown”…… #CandyAssBitchMade All my real one…. Men on integrity… my real ones out here stand UP…… folks that GP to the gym and get big naturally #NoJuice #NoOJ spin off huh? Spin off these nuts selfish champ…… pause notice who’s got his arms around my shoulder and who’s standing alone – #OurChildrenMatter

A post shared by TYRESE (@tyrese) on Nov 1, 2017 at 9:46am PDT

Still, The Rock mentioned to MTV that he might return for Fast and Furious 10 at some point “down the road.” After all, as he says, there’s some “unfinished business between Hobbs and Dom” that they’ll have to work out if the two actors can agree to be in the same room together once again.

Hobbs & Shaw, where The Rock partners up with Jason Statham, will be in theaters this year. Fast And Furious 9 is set for a 2020 release.

Anything to add to this story? Share your thoughts with us.

The post ENTERTAINMENT: The Rock will not be part of ‘Fast and Furious 9’ appeared first on When In Manila.

After admitting that they are indeed “exclusively dating,” Maine Mendoza and Arjo Atayde were recently spotted together in Rockwell. The two were captured by AlDub fan @shngrrng, who shared a photo of them during their “mall date” and her thoughts on ArMaine’s dating news.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @shngrrng on Jan 28, 2019 at 5:55pm PST

She wrote on Instagram, “To MaiChard fans: I used to be a silent fan since 2015. With everything that has been happening right now, I know some of you [are] really having a hard time whether to give up or stay [in the fandom.]”

She added, “I was just watching MaiChard videos last night, and funny how fate happens to play with me. I saw M[aine] and the guy, [Arjo Atayde.] Nothing too sweet and everything was casual. But you would sense that there is really something between them. I know it is really really hard for the fandom to accept but this is reality, and sometimes life doesn’t work the way we want it to be… (and it’s sucks, I know.) Sometimes there are things in life that we can’t control from happening. But in career, love, and personal choices are the things that ONLY THEM [Alden and Maine] can control. I am not posting this to hurt anyone nor to give satisfaction to those fans of M[aine] and the guy, [Arjo.] I am here to stand as an example to everyone that even in the midst of hurting, we could still find the courage to give RESPECT to someone’s life. Like what Alden always says, RESPECT. RESPECT. RESPECT.”

Other AlDub fans also posted their own opinions regarding the recent dating news on Twitter. Some hope for Maine’s happiness.

Dear Arjo Atayde, please read my letter to you. Please be careful with Maine Mendoza’s heart. I can feel you have her heart now. Also, pls dont challenge the fans. There are fans who have mental problems & might hurt you & Maine. Guard yourselves! God bless u & Maine! Chill lang! pic.twitter.com/9szQ2m3U8d

— showbiz_news (@entertain29) January 22, 2019

Arjo Atayde admitted that he and Maine Mendoza are “exclusively dating”.

Goodbye Aldub, Hello ArDub!

— R (@rearevalo27) January 22, 2019

Respect their right to live as they want & love who their hearts choose. Audiences must mature w/ their idols & learn to separate screen from real life.Celebrate true love! #aldub #arjolovesmaine
Maine Mendoza, Arjo Atayde spotted https://t.co/e2PTg32LlF via @Pepalerts

— Frankly Brutal (@candidandhonest) January 30, 2019

I am rooting for Maine and Arjo! Be strong my loves! When the noise is prevalent, it’s still between the two of you! Love conquers all!@mainedcm @AtaydeArjo
Maine Mendoza

— Soc Jimenez (@socbjimenez) January 29, 2019

However this budding romance goes in the future, whether you end up together or not, at least today, I am grateful you stood up for @mainedcm and made it clear to the world what she means to you right now. @AtaydeArjo

— chill grandi (@grandiana1) January 22, 2019

While others still can’t believe that Maine is dating her current beau. As written by Instagram user @gladys_travel_fun via @shngrrng Instagram post, “Funny how a picture that shows a girl so uninterested and a guy who is looking sadly at a girl can be interpreted as a romantic date. Your interpretation is not objective but subjective. This is not an ADN [AlDub Nation] reaction. Show this picture to anyone who do not know them and they will say the same thing. Now, show me a picture of them gazing at each other and smiling with their eyes then I will believe everything this person says. Until then that is my opinion.”

What do you guys think? Is it time to welcome ArMaine, or is AlDub still your main fandom?

The post SPOTTED: Maine Mendoza and Arjo Atayde openly date in a local mall; AlDub Nation reacts appeared first on When In Manila.

How far can you go to make your favorite celebrity notice you? Australian singer Kelsy Karter would go beyond the usual. The 25-year-old soul singer just got a shocking birthday present for Harry Styles: a tattoo of the singer’s face on her whole cheek!

View this post on Instagram

mama, look what i made me do

A post shared by Kelsy Karter (@kelsykarter) on Jan 26, 2019 at 8:11pm PST

She wrote on Instagram, “Mama, look what I made me do.”

In an interview with ‘The Edge Afternoon Show,’ Kelsy talked about her tattoo. She explained, “I just wear my heart on my cheek and I couldn’t really control what went on from there.” She talked about why she likes Harry Styles, “As a fellow musician, I really respect what he’s doing for rock ‘n’ roll. I’m a female in the modern day movement of rock ‘n’ roll and he’s exposed the kids to sounds they might have not otherwise heard. Because he came from the pop world and did a rock ‘n’ roll album, it’s opened doors for people like me. I really respect what he’s doing and love what he’s doing – and he’s nice to look at.”

Aside from the tattoo, Kelsey also released the music video for her song titled “Harry,” just three days before the English singer-songwriter’s birthday. Harry Styles is celebrating his 24th birthday today, February 1.

What do you guys think, is it a yay or a nay?

The post Singer Kelsy Karter got a tattoo of Harry Styles’s face on her cheek, just in time for Harry’s birthday! appeared first on When In Manila.

‘Strong Woman Do Bong Soon’ co-stars Park Bo Young and Park Hyung Sik both admitted that they indeed have feelings for each other.

Photo from: Strong Girl Bong Soon

The actress confessed that she’s actually a fan of the Korean boy group ZE:A, Hyung Sik debuted as a member of the said group. In an interview, as reported by Korean entertainment site Koreaboo, the actress said: “I had my eye on Hyung Sik when he was an idol in ZE:A. I know all of the title tracks by heart, and Hyung Sik even personally quizzed me to see my knowledge of their songs.”

Hyung Sik seemed to be delighted by the fact that Bo Young actually likes their group’s songs. The actress added, “During our spare time, while filming ‘Strong Woman Do Bong Soon,’ Hyung Sik would often turn on some of ZE:A’s songs and dance to the tracks’ choreography.”

In a separate interview, as reported by Korean news portal Soompi, Hyung Sik also admitted that he actually “fell in love” with his leading lady. He explained, “I really loved Park Bo Young. She’s that lovable. Because she was the perfect Bong Soon, it was so natural for me to love her. I wanted to love her more but [the drama] unfortunately ended.”

‘Strong Woman Do Bong Soon’ aired back in February 2017 until April 2017. In the show, Park Bo Young portrayed Do Bong Soon, a girl with superhuman strength. While Park Hyung Sik played a rich CEO named Ahn Min Hyuk.

In the same interview, Hyung Sik explained that Park Bo Young was one of the main reasons why he accepted the role. He elaborated, “I felt that it would be stupid of me to say no to this kind of project. And then I learned that my co-star would be actress Park Bo Young, which is when I decided that I absolutely had to do this project. Everyone around me was very jealous.”

What do you guys think? Would this be the birth of another reel-to-real couple?

The post Park Bo Young confessed that she also had “feelings” for Park Hyung Sik appeared first on When In Manila.

Words by Aira Mae Parado

Most of us have the same daily routine. We rise in the morning, head to school or work, hustle the daily grind. But some people have to deal with it the harder way. 

For people with disabilities or PWDs, the reality of daily life is different. There are some instances when even transport is hardly accessible to them. To address this, a group of young people known as Project SMILE, initiated a campaign called #PeopleWith, inclined to raising awareness, promoting inclusion, and empowering our Filipino PWDs. #PeopleWith basically recognizes PWDs beyond their disabilities. It acknowledges that they are also #PeopleWith skills, talents, strengths, and most importantly, journeys. That they also matter.

ALSO READ: You Can Have Your Selfie Up in an EDSA Billboard for Just P1,000

Project SMILE is a youth-led organization whose mission is to uplift the lives of neglected and underprivileged Filipinos. And to grant PWDs a much better and safer time on the road, Project SMILE partnered with Alyansa ng May Kapansanan na Nagmamaneho ng Sasakyan at Motor sa Pilipinas (ALKASAMOPI), pushing for the first-ever PWD-friendly tricycle in the country. It will not only provide them with better mobility, but also be their source of livelihood. PWDs can drive the tricycle themselves. 

The initial design and prototype of the PWD-friendly tricycle are primarily targeting wheelchair users. Compared with the regular tricycle, this model will allow wheelchairs to be easily rolled in, as the entrance will have ample space and will be lower. Project SMILE hopes to enhance our PWD commuters’ lives, especially given that most streets in Manila are very narrow and congested.

In line with this, Project SMILE would like to reach out for your help in making this PWD-friendly tricycle come to life. The ultimate objective is to put up at least one for each city in the Philippines.  Now that you know about this, will you Join the Ride? 

Help fund the country’s first ever PWD-friendly tricycle for just P100. Sign up here to donate, participate, and join the ride towards PWD inclusion: bit.ly/PeopleWith-JoinTheRide

For further campaign details, please visit Project SMILE through the links below.

Project Smile

www.facebook.com/pg/projectsmilephilippines
Instagram: @projectsmilephilippines

The post LOOK: Help Fund Philippines’ First Ever PWD-Friendly Tricycles for as Low as a P100 Donation appeared first on When In Manila.

A report by HootSuite and We Are Social finds that the Philippines tops the global list of internet users in terms of how many hours people spend a day online. The world internet usage index lists the Philippines’ average time spent on the internet as 10 hours a day.

Thailand and Indonesia join the Philippines in the top 5 ranking, making Southeast Asia “one of the most internet-addicted regions on the planet” according to the Guardian. Interestingly, the top 5 internet users were dominated by developing countries. Coming in second is Brazil, Thailand as third, Colombia as fourth, and Indonesia as fifth.

The country clocking in the least amount of hours a day is another Asian country — Japan. The national average amounted to only 3 hours and 45 minutes. However, the global average is 6.5 hours a day.

(RELATED: The Philippines Tops Adult Website’s List Five Years in a Row)

The study’s author says that the biggest takeaway from the report is the increased amount of internet users in 2018. Simon Kemp writes: “The big story in this year’s data is the accelerating growth in internet users. More than 360 million people came online for the first time in 2018, at an average rate of more than one million new users every day.”

Why do you think Filipinos spend so much time online? 

The post The Philippines ranks as the most internet-addicted country in the world appeared first on When In Manila.

I am a big believer in love. I am a spammer of heart emojis, I love to tell my friends I love them, I love writing down the names of all the people I was able to make smile that day. It’s not as if I’m cynical or like I don’t believe in love–I definitely do. But all things in balance–with those good, warm feelings there must also be its counterpart: Heartbreak.

Being heartbroken feels different for everybody. Some are angrier, some are sadder, some just don’t sleep. Break-ups can cause these emotions to really flare up and make themselves known until you’ve found yourself crying into your third pint of ice cream for the day. And while break-ups are never created equal, they almost always always suck.

And what’s worse? Break-ups near Valentine’s season. I personally love Valentine’s. I love hearing people plan stuff for the people they love. It’s sweet and makes me so happy. My favorite conversation I overheard the day before Valentine’s day was when someone said: “I made her a Disney love medley and I’m gonna ask her to be my girlfriend na.”

But for those of us who are broken-hearted after a break-up, it kind of sucks being reminded of how hurt we are and how in love other people are. You start to question what you did wrong, what happened, all that. And while it feels terrible, it doesn’t have to be.

But instead of wallowing in self-pity and despair (things I am particularly excellent at), here are some things you can do instead!

11. Surprise your friends

A lot of the time we’re occupied by how sad we are that we want to be the ones to get surprised with love and affection but, honestly, doing something for someone else feels just as good. Not to say that you should only look for the personal feeling of satisfaction when you do something for someone else, but making someone smile about how thoughtful you were being to them is just another bright spot altogether.

It’s easy to fall into a sadness pit and stay there but one way to shake yourself out of it is to try to actively make someone else happy. Let them know you’re thinking of them. Valentine’s isn’t just for romantic love, after all!

10. Volunteer for the day

Speaking of making someone else smile, why not volunteer somewhere? If your friends aren’t that into receiving gifts, there are tons of foundations and organizations that will always appreciate a helping hand. Having you there will make someone else’s Valentine’s day very very special.

(READ: http://www.wheninmanila.com/12-places-you-can-volunteer-in-manila/

9. Solo trip away from all the commercialized promos

Sometimes it’s hard to be surrounded by billboards and social media posts about Valentine’s coming up. Whether it’s a 2-in-1 romantic dinner promo or something, it just makes you think of your ex. And you really don’t need to deal with that negativity after a really terrible break-up.

How about pack up for a solo trip somewhere? Maybe an overnight stay or just a daytrip–whatever it is, rediscover yourself as a person you love, too. You can be your own Valentine! That bad break-up probably made you forget how nice it is to take care of yourself.

8. Catch up on sleep

Let’s be real, you probably haven’t slept. It’s hard going to bed when they’re on your mind all the time. I feel that. I don’t think I’ve slept properly either. And it’s even harder knowing that with every minute that passes, it’s another minute longer that you aren’t together anymore.

You need to rest. Big plans won’t make any difference if you’re terribly sleep-deprived. You need to care for yourself. You’re the one person you can rely on to start moving forward.

7. Treat yourself for the day

You listened to all these sweet plans and promises of what you’d do for Valentine’s Day only to be left in the dirt. Yikes. Now it feels like something you don’t wanna celebrate. But don’t let that stop you from treating yourself (responsibly)!

Maybe you wanna go shopping to forget, that’s perfectly fine. Or your favorite food? Go for it. “Table for one” doesn’t have to sound so bad–you don’t feel pressure to eat faster, make conversation, or even to wait for another person. It’s all you.

6. Treat your family to something nice

Speaking of treating someone, why not your family? They would definitely appreciate it! And it’ll give you lots of time to bond and laugh together, something they might have missed in the throes of your heartbreak. Spend some quality time with your family if you want–that might just help you out in the long run.

5. EAT!!!

Honestly, food solves everything.

4. Buy a bath bomb and soak in the bath

Tbh it’s pretty satisfying to watch one of those heart bath bombs dissapear into the water. Also because it’s heart-shaped. Jk. But what better day to make yourself all pampered and lovely than Valentine’s? Aside from your birthday, of course. And, really, any day you feel like reminding yourself that you’re the star.

3. Read

What better way to get your mind off someone than to read? Immerse yourself in another world, one where you’re a witch/wizard or where you’re a crime detective about to crack the case. It’ll do so much good for you!

2. Take care of yourself

This is so important. Maybe in the process of the break-up, you weren’t taking care of yourself even at the most basic level. Get rid of the booze. Stock up your fridge. Take a good shower. Moisturize. Remind yourself that you are worthy with or without a significant other. You are beautiful and strong and you’ve made it this far and you should be proud of yourself.

1. If applicable, wish them well

If it was particularly bad and they did something truly awful to you then you don’t have to. That’s why I say “if applicable.” Maybe things didn’t turn out well but you still care, wish them well. You don’t have to contact them or reach out, but just in your mind. Just hope they’re doing okay, don’t linger too much, and move forward. You loved them once upon a time.

What are you going to be doing this Valentine’s day? Let us know! 

The post What should you do for Valentine’s after a bad break-up? appeared first on When In Manila.

Words by: Kiana Palacios

As the Lunar New Year fast approaches, it’s important to take note of what to avoid to ensure you’ll able to receive the fortune that comes with the new year. Here’s a quick list of the 15 things you and your family should avoid doing to keep the good luck in your favor for the whole year round!

ALSO READ: 9 Ways to Attract Money Into Your Life, According to Feng Shui

via GIPHY

15. Don’t start the new year without cleaning your house thoroughly

It’s a must to clean the house BEFORE the new year as it drives away all the bad luck from the year before. Sweeping the house DURING the new year is sweeping away the all good luck you are bound to receive for the rest of the year.

14. Avoid the number 4

The Chinese word for number 4 (四-si) also means death in Chinese culture. Most of the time, Chinese people even go as far as not saying the word at all. They believe that by saying it, they might jinx their fortune and even wish death upon the people around them.

13. Don’t do the laundry

Laundry on the first two days of the year is a big no since it’s believed to be the birthday of the water god 水神 (ShuiShen). By washing the laundry on these days, you might be putting yourself in the “naughty” list of Shuishen and bestowing a lot of bad luck on yourself.

via GIPHY

12. Don’t wash and cut your hair

It’s believed that washing hair is washing away your fortune. Cutting of hair is also considered taboo, as scissors and other sharp objects are believed to cut your stream of success and wealth.

11. Don’t take any medicine (unless you really need to)

Unless you’re chronically ill or with any serious disease, taking medicine on New Year’s day puts you on the list for sicknesses all throughout the year. Going to the doctor’s, undergoing surgery, and getting shots are also considered taboo.

10. Don’t reuse old clothes

New red clothes mean good luck and a fresh start. So why not take it as an excuse to go shopping?

via GIPHY

9. Avoid monochrome fashion

Be sure though to wear red and other bright colors since white, black and other dark colors are associated with death, mourning, and funerals.

8. Avoid crying and fighting

Crying, unless under special circumstances, is said to bring bad luck to the family. All problems should also be resolved peacefully to ensure a smooth new year.

via GIPHY

7. Women: Don’t leave your house

For women, going out during the new year is a sign of bad luck. Married daughters are also not allowed to visit their parents as it’s believed to bring bad luck and economic hardship, although men are free to do whatever they want. Yikes!

6. Avoid negative words

Words like death, poor, kill, ghost, etc. are to be avoided to not jinx yourself and your family this new year.

5. Don’t break anything, especially ceramics and glass

If you do, you break your connection with prosperity and fortune. But if it can’t be avoided, be sure to wrap the shards in red paper while whispering 岁岁平安 (sui sui ping an) which means peace and security. After the new year, you must throw the shards in a lake or river.

via GIPHY

4. Don’t sleep before midnight

It’s a must to let out fireworks while waiting for the new year to scare off bad spirits and Nian, the New Year monster. By going to bed early, you might miss out on being able to welcome the new year!

via GIPHY

3. Don’t give New Year blessings to someone still in bed or asleep 

If they’re still in bed when you wish them a “Happy New Year,” this would put them in a year of being bed-ridden. Wait for them to get out of bed first to not put them in a fate of being bossed around and rushed for the rest of the year. Don’t be afraid to sleep in!

2. Don’t give gifts with bad meanings in Chinese culture

Avoid gifts like clocks, scissors, and pears, you might be wishing bad luck for the recipient of the gift instead!

1. Don’t give odd numbers in ampaos 

All even numbers are said to be good luck (except number 4!). Avoid amounts with number 3, 5, and 7. Any value with the number 8 is always a safe bet!

via GIPHY

Keep these 15 in mind as you celebrate the Lunar New Year. Wishing you and your family a prosperous and blessed new year ahead!  Happy Chinese New Year!

The post Want to Have a Prosperous Lunar New Year? Here are 15 Things you need to Know appeared first on When In Manila.

How crazy have you gone over a celebrity sighting in Manila? We’ve heard and seen fans of Korean stars go absolutely crazy during their meet-and-greets, but this time, fans also went crazy when Korean girl group BLACKPINK arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Friday night.

Here are some tweets of the fans who were there to witness the crazy spectacle:

FILO BLINKS ARE NOW CHEERING FOR BLACKPINK. KAHIT WALA PA YUNG MGA REYNA, NAGKAKAGULO NA TALAGA #BLACKPINKINYOURAREAMANILA #BLACKPINKinMANILA pic.twitter.com/E7jRY0UBWj

— MAVSnoban ໒(ᓀ‸ᓂ)७ (@IamMadi_101) February 1, 2019

Sobrang nakakadisappoint po talaga :( #BLACKPINKinMANILA #BLACKPINKinManila pic.twitter.com/8yhBByf60o

— 리아 매 (@lalaliyaa) February 1, 2019

The crowd is getting wild wowww!! #BLACKPINKinManila pic.twitter.com/DKYY10Mwp7

— Jendeukie (@quiambaoangelu) February 1, 2019

This is absurd PH blinks. Very disappointing. #BLACKPINKinMANILA #MabuhayBLACKPINK pic.twitter.com/nKv85IsRi6

— D-DAY!!! (@beulinkeudeul) February 1, 2019

Wild #BLACKPINKinMANILA pic.twitter.com/4g9zSfUNnD

— JENDEUKIE (@jenlisacruise) February 1, 2019

Apparently, some fans were trying to jump over the barricades, while others even got on cars just to see their idols. In fact, things became so chaotic that airport officials had to look for another exit for the group to go through. BLACKPINK’s concert at the Mall of Asia is currently ongoing and we certainly hope the crowd there isn’t as crazy as it was last night!

How crazy have you gone in front of your idols? Have you witnessed anything similar to this? Share your stories with us!

The post LOOK: These Tweets Show Fans Going Crazy Over BLACKPINK As They Arrive in Manila appeared first on When In Manila.

New Chinese Lunar Calendar, new luck and new opportunities. What new things do you want to achieve this year? If you’re curious about what your sign has in store for you this Chinese New Year, whether in money, career, or finding ~The One~, read ahead to learn what’s in the stars for you this Year of the Pig, according to your Chinese zodiac sign.

ALSO READ: 9 Ways to Attract Money Into Your Life, According to Feng Shui

Year of the Rat

Born in the years: 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008

Love: In this Year of the Pig, Rats will have a good people relationship. Socializing, dating, hang-outs, and even traveling are in the stars for you! But, this doesn’t mean you will just easily find the love of your life. And if you do find someone, there might be some obstructions along the way, particularly some “competitors”. Yikes! But, as always, just face the situation with courage, be positive, and most all, just be yourself.

If you are already in a relationship, spend more time with your partner and don’t forget to give them your attention and appreciation.

Wealth: Rats’ luck in money this coming new year is neither bad nor good, but at least it’s just fair. And since it’s just fair, be careful of lending money to your friends or relatives. Try to avoid it if you can! Also be careful with putting money into investments. Think twice and really study them before pushing full ahead. The money you give out might not return, so spend or invest very wisely.

Career: Rats and Pigs are like-minded, and so in this Year of the Pig, those born in the Year of the Rat will get a little push in their career life this coming Chinese new year. Keep your eyes peeled. Good career opportunities might right be ahead of you! You can attain good career achievements. It is even luckier if you partner or collaborate with Pigs in projects or businesses.

Year of the Cow

Born in the years: 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

Love: Cows, this is a good year for your love life. For singles, go on out there, meet people, and socialize. This is a good year for you to actively look for your soul mate! The stars are on your side. There is a chance you might find your ~match~ this year. *Fingers crossed*

If you are in a relationship or are married, still thank the stars because the Year of the Pig is going to be a love-filled, harmonious year for you and your S.O. And what better blessing is there in life than that?

Wealth: Get ready to celebrate, Cows. The Year of the Pig will bring you lots of money-making opportunities. So be ready to jump on those chances! But, as much as prosperity is towards your way, don’t forget to stay humble and be careful of how you handle your money. Will the flow heading towards you, you can easily get overwhelmed, that might cause you losses eventually.

Career: Good news. The Year of the Pig is a good year for you, which means good luck is also heading your way career-wise. There will be career and money opportunities, as long as you also do the work. A new job opportunity or promotion may also be offered to you, and when this happens, consider taking it on. It has a possibility to be good for you.

Year of the Tiger

Born in the years: 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

Love: If you’ve been looking for the “the one”, sorry Tiger, but you might need some more time to find your one true love. Your people relationship is good though, so you should take advantage of this and go socialize. Although it might not be easy to find an intimate relationship, hang out with people born in the Year of the Horse as they will be lucky for you and might have better chances finding your perfect companion.

For those in relationships or are married, spend more quality time with your partner and prioritize romance. You should also try to go on a romantic trip.

Wealth: Sorry, Tigers, but the Year of the Pig doesn’t seem to bring you much luck in the money department. Try not to invest in projects or businesses with Pigs, too, as this might not succeed and cause you money losses. Take care of your expenses this year, and make sure you don’t jump into investments too quickly.

Career: There are no big changes or opportunities in the horizon for you this Year of the Pig, so if you’re pretty satisfied with where you are now then not much is going to change. Career luck is not very promising. Therefore, if you are presented with a job opportunity, you might want to think twice before accepting. You could be better off taking a pass. If you are experiencing a burden at work then you could take the new job offer, however it might take time for you to build your reputation again in this new venture.

Year of the Rabbit

Born in the years: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011

Love: If you are single and are on the lookout for love, elders who support you might introduce you to a potential partner. Hop on the chance, but as always, trust your gut. Don’t do it if you feel pressured, or you’re just not that comfortable with the other person. That just means they are not the suitable companion for you.

If you are in a relationship or are married, you will feel more harmony in your relationship this Year of the Pig. Married couples should devote more time to married life, and don’t forget to always express appreciation towards the other person.

Wealth: The Year of the Pig doesn’t bring in much luck to Rabbits when it comes to money, but it doesn’t mean it’s hopeless. If you’re looking for opportunities to make money, don’t be afraid to look for help. People born in the Year of the Snake can bring you good luck and money, as they are good advisers when it comes to money matters.

Career: If you’re aiming for a major career breakthrough, it might be more time before that actually happens. Although for any work troubles, you can count on someone to help and guide you. Keep building a good working relationship with people in your same age bracket, like friends, colleagues, or from any social group. Also, don’t be quick to dismiss an opportunity of relocation, if someone offers you a job in a different place or city.

Year of the Dragon

Born in the years: 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012

Love: Single? That might not be the case for any longer. Dragon, you have a good chance at finding your true love this year. Put yourself out there, and actively participate in social gatherings to meet people. The love of your life might show up in front of you any time.

Those in relationships might feel a little need for freedom, so don’t forget to just be open with your partner and understand each others’ needs. Those who are married might find their partners more attentive to your marriage life. Appreciate this and maybe plan to go on a romantic trip.

Wealth: Fortune is looking good for you this coming Year of the Pig, Dragons. However, remember to not be too greedy facing all the money luck that might be coming your way. You can ask other people for help and guidance if you don’t know how to manage money well. People born in the Year of the Horse will be willing to help you, and can even invest with you.

Career: Good career opportunities is also headed your way, and since you are also looking to be lucky in the wealth department, this means your new career opportunities might will bring you good income. However, with a busier career also comes added pressure and work. Just stay positive and keep in mind that this is all for your career growth.

Year of the Snake

Born in the years: 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013

Love: Single ladies, put your hands up. The Year of the Pig presents a good opportunity for you to find a companion this year. However, single men might not be as lucky, as they might have to wait a bit more until they find the woman for them. Snakes and Pigs are not friends, and therefore this Year of the Pig might mean inharmonious love relationships.

Males in relationships should be patient towards their partners and avoid quarrel, although females in relationships have more solid relationships. For married couples, you and your partner should remember to be respectful of each other, keep a good relationship, and share the housework.

Wealth: The Year of the Pig might not be too lucky for Snakes this year in terms of money, so just remember to be conservative in your spendings and investments. You will have good luck in career though, so don’t worry about having a steady income.

Career: The Year of the Pig brings in many career opportunities for you, Snakes, although don’t think they’re all going to be easy or harmonious. They might come with some pressure, but you should be able to handle the challenge if you put in the work. You will learn a lot of new knowledge and experience in these coming job opportunities, which in the end will all be useful to you now and in the future.

The rest of the horoscope readings on the next page!

The post Year of the Pig: Here is Your 2019 Chinese New Year Horoscope, According to Your Zodiac Sign appeared first on When In Manila.

It looks like the news of the Manila Bay clean up has made a lot of people excited — maybe too excited. Last February 3 there were several photos taken of a public crowd in Manila Bay, with several of them even swimming in the water. This comes on the heels of the Manila city government disallowing individuals to swim in the bay.

Photo c/o Wilmie Ursal

While the clean-up efforts have shown noticeable progress so far, the Department of Health (DOH) warns that this does not mean the waters can be considered ‘clean’ just yet. Health Undersecretary Rolando Enrique Domingo stated: “We advise them to wait until water tests can show that it is safe for swim­ming. After cleaning the beach, the water will still have to be tested to see if it is safe for swimming. Laboratory tests will show the level of coliform in the water and tell us if it is within accept­able levels.”

As of the last test done by the DOH, the bay’s fecal coliform level was 3.3 million times above the standard 100 mpn. At this level, it’s highly likely for individuals to contract water-borne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, typhoid, dysentery, skin diseases and eye infection.

Took a walk around Manila Bay.

The place is crowded. Lots of people watches the Manila bay sunset. They're also watching the kids swimming in the bay, which is still dirty, unsafe and dangerous by the way.

The shoreline is clean. The water isn't.#manilabay #manila pic.twitter.com/UVACj09tK9

— Dave (@DVERMRZ) February 3, 2019

Francis Martinez, MMDA’s Metro Parkway Cleaning Group head, also had this to say: “From dito po, mga 300 meters… maitim pa. Maitim pa ‘yung dagat kaya hindi pa pwedeng paliguan. May mga basura pa po ‘yan sa ilalim.” (From this point [the shore] until about 300 meters. The water is still murky and cannot be swam in. There is still trash at the bottom.)

Oh My God!! It's good to see people enjoying the Manila Bay this weekend but guys pls.beware of swimming in the water..ang taas pa ng fecal coliform dyan..Ok lang siguro mag sun bathing.. Calling #DOH #DENR and othe gov't agencies..#ManilaBay #NotSafetoSwim #WeekendinManailaBay pic.twitter.com/e32Xga96y9

— Ree Amante (@realree888) February 3, 2019

(Before vs After: What Manila Bay looks like post-clean up and how we can keep it this way)

Efforts to clean-up Manila Bay continue. Further clean-up sessions will be held each Saturday for the foreseeable future and will hopefully continue to see a loyal group of volunteers.

Are you brave enough to take a dip in Manila Bay? 

The post LOOK: Beachgoers swim in Manila Bay despite it being a public health hazard appeared first on When In Manila.

Leaving home to study or work is always a difficult thing. Whether out of choice or necessity, you are setting off from your comfort zone to challenge yourself in a new environment. Surviving in these situations is feat enough, which is why we celebrate truly thriving in them. This is especially true for Janelle Panganiban who graduated with the highest Latin honors from the prestigious New York University.

Janelle Panganiban is a member of the Gaddang indigenous group from Isabela. She graduated summa cum laude while juggling 3 majors: Global Public Health, Public Policy, and Sociology (Honors).  She was also a recipient of the prestigious Alexander L. Shluger Award for Excellence in Sociology. This award is given to Sociology majors who have ‘excelled in his or her study of this subject’. On top of this, Panganiban was a Founder’s Day awardee of her graduating class, meaning she was one of the top-ranking baccalaureate graduates.

On her academic success, Panganiban shares that: “I didn’t feel like I did anything extraordinary. I was just studying what I loved studying. It was less for me and more for my family who was more excited than I was. I was passionate about getting out of the bubble and I realized all the new ideas that were out there. I learned to love learning.”

For her, excellence was a byproduct of learning. Putting her education first and prioritizing knowledge was what led to her academic standing and not the other way around. She says: “Academic success is the time when I read a book that confronted my perspectives or when my professor and classmates challenged my opinions and debated with me. In other words, I achieved academic excellence by constantly questioning the norm and expanding my mindset. This is what I’ve learned to love and enjoy.”

As advice to any Filipino who is still a work-in-progress, she had this to say: “Remain curious, step out of your comfort zone, and engage in conversation. In our world that’s growing more and more divided, I still have hope that we can find ways to transcend our differences.”

When asked where she goes from here she states: “As a Filipino, I feel like I have the obligation to bring all of these back to the Philippines and at the same time, as a descendant of the Gaddangs, I find myself impassioned for indigenous resurgence as a step to combat the long and embedded history of colonization.”

She hopes that this is something we can all remember and embody in our journeys. The things that we do and the deeds we accomplish can always be dedicated towards something bigger than ourselves. Panganiban reminds us: “Never forget that you are a Filipino—huwag kalilimutan ang pinanggalingan. Saan mang bahagi ng mundo tayo makarating, ang Pilipinas pa rin sana ang ating balikan. Mangarap nang hindi lang para sasarili, kung hindi na rin para sa bayan.” 

(Never forget that you are a Filipino — do not forget where you came from. Wherever we end up in this world, I hope we will always return to the Philippines. Our ambitions should not only be for ourselves, but for the nation as well.)

Panganiban is the daughter Representative Jose T. Panganiban, Jr. of ANAC-IP Party list and Mayor Lourdes S. Panganiban of Angadangan, Isabela. She was also one of the awardees in the 6th annual Philippine Graduation (PGRAD) at the Philippine Center in New York.

(INSPIRING: Filipino Harvard law graduate dedicates his career to pro-bono legal work for the poor)

Do you have anything to add to this story? Let us know in the comments! 

The post This Filipina from an Isabela tribe graduated summa cum laude from NYU! appeared first on When In Manila.

Ah, yes. The Great Wall. Often our own version of Romeo and Juliet, many couples either climb it, succumb to it, or are stopped by it. And it’s always hard to hear stories about thwarted love. But sometimes, we have those victorious stories! Victories don’t always mean they get together and stay together but they at least learn and walk away better people.

Here are some of our favorites!

1. The “what if?”

There’s this guy I met when we were undergrads and at first I didn’t really pay attention to him. But he really made an effort to talk to me and bond with me because we happened to be classmates in 4 classes. Anyway turns out he’s this really great guy. He’s super charming and incredibly smart and sweet and all that. We got really close because we were together all the time.

We learned a lot about each other and one of the things I did learn was that he comes from a really traditional Chinese family so he has a great wall. So even if I knew I was starting to have feelings and even if I knew there was something there, I backed off. I respect him so much and I know how painful it is for people to go through trials of being with someone with a great wall. And he’s one of the most incredible people I’ve ever met, so I don’t want to hurt him and I don’t ever want it to come down to me versus his family because a part of me knows how selfish that is. And I know that could ruin a lot of things.

My family met him and they really like him too and they said that I made the right choice. And so there, we’re friends and I’m happy with that but I’ll always wonder “what if?” y’know?

2. Loving from afar

Well, there is this girl I love, she’s always so nice and kind to me. When I first met her I was struck [like lightning.] Then as days went by I started to fall in love with her even more. But I knew that she had a great wall because she said: “I need to find a pure Chinese guy.” That’s when I knew I didn’t have a chance.

So instead, I became the brother she needed in her life, the brother who could help and be there for her. Even though until now I still love her, I decided that because I love her so much I’ll let her go and I know that one day she will find that one person who can love her unconditionally.

I hope that wherever she goes, I want her to know that I’ll always love her.

3. Yikes

Had myself set up for prom. Morena yung girl. Parents said nope you’re taking your cousin to prom. It was embarrassing to have to tell the guy who set me up that my parents said no. Also heard na umiyak si girl after. Ouch.

4. The Taft-Katipunan distance

He was my crush for a while, then for my birthday, my friends made him greet me through text! After a few days of asking, he asked me to prom. Then we became each other’s first boyfriend/girlfriend. We were together end of junior year until the beginning of college, always fighting cause it was hard to see each other. His parents didn’t know about me, my parents didn’t like that it wasn’t a legal relationship for both sides. We kept breaking up and getting back together. Then one day at like 3 am he called me then I think he was crying? His mom found out, then we decided family first. It was hard also cause Katip-Taft “long distance” relationship. That was about 5 years ago, now he’s dating a Chinese girl. We don’t talk but I’m happy for him, he’ll always be my first love!

5. Love is real

I thought he liked my friend (who was also my blockmate) but it turns out he liked me. I didn’t know and I even asked him for help for this other guy. Then I chickened out. Pretty soon, in third year, he told me he liked me. But I told him yes and no. I think that’s what eased the Great Wall a little. The fact that one, I didn’t jump into it right away and two, we had 6 months to test the waters.

6. Not actually climbing the wall

The post People shared their best “Great Wall” stories with us and we believe love conquers all! appeared first on When In Manila.

If there is something that millennials love most, it’s freedom. Freedom to explore, freedom to roam and the freedom to pursue their passions. Though most millennials are in the office, many of them also find the time to be able to do whatever it is that they love to do.

As an on-the-go Millennial myself, I have always been on the lookout for gadgets that has great value for money and is something that will be useful for my work and for all the other things that I am passionate about.

With daily commute, I have to consider that the gadgets I use is something that I can carry around anywhere and has a long battery life. This applies to my mobile phone, camera, and laptop.

As for the laptop, I’ve always used something a little bulkier because I really thought that performance depends on the size. I need something that I can use the whole day for work and for my artworks afterward. It wouldn’t also hurt if I can use it to watch my favorite movies and series or to play music.

This is when we found the HP ENVY x360.

The HP ENVY x360 is a convertible PC, meaning it can be a laptop and a tablet. It’s 13-inches which are the right size for every millennial need. It looks very sleek and the Dark Ash Silver finish adheres to HP’s highest craftsmanship standards. It has a metal design and accents that scream durability.

It has the newest AMD processor and has the battery life of up to 11hours. It also has a fast charge feature that can juice up your laptop of up to 50% in approximately 45minutes. It also has AMD® RyzenTM and RadeonTM Vega graphics for that work and play lifestyle.

The screen is very responsive with its Corning® Gorilla® Glass NBTTM. There is also a quick log-in feature that uses the camera to capture the user’s face.

One of the best features of the HP ENVY x360 is the audio. It is packed with a Bang and Olufsen audio that enhanced the Quad HP speakers. It is the perfect match of the 4K UHD micro-edge display that will make your viewing (and working) experience better.

If you are a writer, you would love the edge-to-edge keyboard. It is very comfortable to use and has a little bounce feedback to add to your comfort. It is also backlit so you can use it properly even in low light conditions.

If you are working at a coffee shop, a co-working space or just even out of the comforts of your own office/home, you can avoid people watching your screen or seeing what you are doing with the HP Sure View privacy screen. You have the option to turn it on or off with just a press of a button.

You can use the HP ENVY x360 in 4 ways: laptop, watch in stand mode, tent mode and in tablet mode. This is perfect for the on-the-go millennial. Laptop for work, stand or tent for presenting and tablet for mobile working.

The tablet mode is perfect for the artists who need to doodle, edit and make graphics. It gives the user a comfortable gadget that will not break the bank.

What we love most about the HP ENVY x360 is how light and easy to bring it around. With the weekdays at the office, it’s easy to lug it around for your weekend travel. Without the hassle of bringing a laptop and a separate table for your needs. The tablet is also pretty light so you don’t have to worry hurting your shoulders or your back when bringing it anywhere you go.

Since we all have the fear of missing out (fomo), we love how the HP ENVY x360 has impeccable audio for our movie marathons or our binge-watching weekends.

The HP ENVY x360 has different accessories that you can buy depending on your requirement. They have the HP Envy Rechargeable Mouse 500, HP Spectre Tilt Recharge Pen and the HP Spectre 13.3.” Leather Sleeve in red or black

The HP ENVY x360 is a great laptop-tablet that is perfect for the on-the-go millennial because of its features. It is also an alternative if you want to buy a new laptop and a tablet. The unit retails for Php56,990 and Php 63,990. Available at HP Concept Stores and authorized HP Resellers nationwide.

HP

Website

Facebook

HP Flagship Store in Lazada

The post LOOK: Here’s the Laptop-Tablet For the on-the-go Millennial appeared first on When In Manila.

Words by: Miko Insame

Featured Photo: The Lakeside Collection

Photos from Instagram

Happy February, everyone! It’s the season of hearts and love is in the air as boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands, wives, and partners all around are feeling the festivity incoming on February 14.

But while some people have their significant other, what about all those people who might not have a date for the Day of Hearts? Well, worry not! Because among all this celebration for being single and happy on times like this, there is someone who’s been hoping for you to take them out on a special date…

…and they’ve been dying to take you out and spend some time with you.

DISCLAIMER: Valentine’s Day falls on a Thursday this year, so if you’ll be busy on the Day of Hearts itself, consider this a helpful guide for Valentine’s weekend.

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A post shared by goldenwoofs (@goldenwoofs) on Jan 28, 2019 at 7:00am PST

He’s been working up the courage to ask you out, you know. (Photo by: @goldenwoofs)

So don’t worry if you still don’t have plans for Valentine’s, keep reading for great ideas on how to spend it with your furry friend who might just end up loving you more than you anyone else can.

ALSO READ: These Narcotic Detection Dogs (NDDs) are now up for adoption!

Sleep In!

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A post shared by Karolina Turek (@karolinaturek) on Jan 11, 2019 at 8:48pm PST

Nothing beats waking up on your own time… except maybe waking up cuddling a furry friend of yours. (Photo by: @karolinaturek)

No date plans mean no need for you to set an alarm for the next morning so you can get ready doing whatever it is you have to do to impress your date. Take the opportunity to get some well-deserved Zs with your furry friend so you can wake up to your dog’s loving embrace. Even better, imagine how your dogs will feel when s/he is able to wake up next to his favorite person in the whole entire world.

Cook at home (For the both of you)!

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昨日の晩ゴハン #dinnerwithdog #サバ #鯖 #豚汁 #カボチャ #ぶどう #梨 #smoothcoatchihuahua #chiuahua #スムチー #hachi

A post shared by Ｈachi (@hachi_kawa) on Sep 22, 2018 at 5:58pm PDT

Forego restaurants that’ll charge you through the nose for a meal, make one for yourself (and your furry admirer)! (Photo by: @hachi_kawa)

You won’t need to head to a fancy-pants restaurant to impress your date for the day. All you’ll need is some simple and affordable recipes and pretty soon you’ll find yourself sitting across from the nicest meal partner of all. Don’t even worry if you can’t cook that well, your dog will love you despite that and will gladly appreciate a seat at the table and a big portion of their human’s cooking.

ALSO READ: Couple Shares Great Photos & Easy-Peasy Recipes On Instagram

Go for a long walk

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A post shared by Teh-o (테오) (@shiba.teh_o) on Feb 2, 2019 at 3:58am PST

‘

No places to be, just enjoy each other’s company. (Photo by: shiba.teh_o)

You know that cheesy and cliché people use, “I like long walks on the beach…”? Well, Manila’s a long way away from any beaches, but taking a long walk with each other gets you out of the house so you don’t spend too much time inside. Go and take a walk and find some time to appreciate how happy you’re making your dog feel, and let that make you (hopefully) just as happy too. There are a lot of parks and open areas that serve as a great place for your dog to zoom around, which is perfect given that the weather in February is supposed to get even chillier and less humid, according to PAG-ASA.

Watch a movie

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A post shared by bullterrier (@bullterrier.ig) on Jan 16, 2019 at 1:58pm PST

Who needs those sappy and sad rom-coms that leave you feeling lonely? Definitely not Bolt! (Or your dog for that matter) (Photo by: @bullterrier.ig)

Take your furry friend, pop some popcorn, pour yourself some nice rosé or crack open a beer, plop down on the couch, and watch some of your favorite movies. Are there movies on Netflix you’ve been dying to see, or some classics in your DVD collection that you’ve been meaning to rewatch? Watch those! You won’t have to deal with arguing over what movie to see because your dog will love whatever you choose anyway.

Get them a gift

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A post shared by Musik the Dawg (@musikdog) on Dec 13, 2018 at 10:43am PST

Your dog won’t demand chocolates or flowers, you know. (Photo by: @musikdog)

Your dog will give you their undivided attention and love even if it’s not Valentine’s Day. Heck, their whole world revolves around you, you know? So don’t you think it’d be nice to get them some of their favorite treats (or toys) to tell them that you’re grateful that they’re in your lives and that they make you feel loved even on the days when you feel like you’re not? They definitely deserve more than just that, but it’s a really good start.

End the day how you started it, with a snuggle

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A post shared by Zeus & Chloe the GSDs (@zeus__themoose) on Jan 2, 2019 at 8:06am PST

At the end of the day, hunker down and fall asleep with your furry friend. (Photo by: @zeus_themoose)

So it’s the end of the day, the dishes from this morning and afternoon have been washed, the weather today was fantastic when you went outside, the treats (or toys) you got weren’t expensive at all and your dog absolutely adored them (as with everything else you do), and the movie’s finished. Finish up your Valentine’s Day by snuggling down with your furry friend and petting them as you both slowly get sleepier and sleepier and eventually fade into sleep, with a soft, furry cuddle buddy by your side.

It’s usually said that we don’t deserve dogs, but a more optimistic spin on it would be that dogs deserve all the love we can give them and more, Valentine’s Day or otherwise.

Happy Valentine’s, everyone!

Will you be showing your dog some extra love this Valentine’s? Let us know!

The post Spend Valentine’s Day With The Goodest Special Someone Of All – Your Dog appeared first on When In Manila.

Words by Bea Lizarondo-Soliman

For those who are tired of the lackluster everyday, Filipino romantic-comedies (with its grand professions of love, its too-heartrending-to-forget one-liners, and its against-all-odds happy endings) may serve as a suitable fix!

However, while there is a long list of memorable romantic-comedy moments with the power to make its watchers’ hearts wrench, stomachs flutter, and interests heighten, there is also a long list of romantic-comedy moments that are so incredibly sappy and so incredibly unrealistic yet so incredibly overused, you can’t help but laugh! From two unlikely lovers working against the world to last-minute grand chases of passion, here are ten gasgas Filipino rom-com tropes that we all love to hate:

10. The Rich Boy and the Poor Girl

Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4nzw3UMvKU

He is a wealthy and successful entrepreneur in a high-end suit while she is but a lowly, provincial girl, bending over backwards in the hustle and bustle of the city for the sake of a humble, ultra-supportive family. He eventually falls in love with her, saying that she reminds him a simpler life, but how can they ever be together? They are from two completely different worlds! The celestial alignments forbid it! Their bank accounts differ by a couple of numbers!

Accompanying this star-crossed lovers trope is the ubiquitous wealthy man’s villainous mother, who does all she can to show that she disproves of her son’s partner, and the poor female lead’s feeling of insecurity, due to her lack of social and financial power, with a matching variation of the “you-would-be-better-off-with-someone-who-deserves-you” line (by which she usually means someone with money).

9. Pretend to Be My Partner

Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvMIwxZaGBg

Two characters, both that completely, even for the sake of life itself, cannot stand each other’s guts, pretend to be in a relationship for reasons that will benefit both of the characters. The usual motives for the one hiring a pretend partner are (1) to make someone else, usually a past lover, jealous or (2) to receive money from a dying relative whose dying wish is for the character to finally find true love (which is oddly specific), while the usual motive for the one being hired to accept is (1) to be paid with enough money to support said character’s family.

We must not forget that in this trope, the one being hired as a pretend partner will lay down a set of rules, which the other character will initially oppose to in disbelief, in the most dramatic manner possible–the last one of these rules being, of course, it’s forbidden to fall in love with each other, which they both eventually break. Despite the deceptive nature of the arrangement’s beginning, the relationship somehow ends with the lying lovers falling truly in love! Which I guess is completely normal and not-at-all sociopathic!

8. Comic Relief Best Friend

Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpQDbgmgtNI&list=PL9ASE0hIppCaJJibHNcENkad1xsYsim6Z&index=4

She is extroverted, delivers the funniest punchlines, presents the wackiest facial reactions, is dressed in kaleidoscopic clothing, and does not have an identity outside of being the female lead’s comical and trustworthy-to-death sidekick. For the majority of the film, this satellite character remains on-call and weirdly supportive of her best friend, and her lines and actions are solely to enhance the glowing halo around the female lead’s head. Despite the lack of information we know about this character, don’t you think it would be nice to see some things from her perspective for a change?

7. Boy Saves Girl

Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noJ5xXPD2T8

A bunch of hooligans, usually depicted by the Filipino rom-com society as dawned in monochromatic clothing and just casually hanging out in dark and smoky pathways, make indecent comments and proposals towards the female lead. When the female lead rejects or throws a snarky comment at them, the hooligans become aggressive.

Enters then the omniscient bad boy, who somehow just knows where the damsel might be and that she is in great distress! He, who at this point is possessed by the spirits of both Bruce Lee and Rocky Balboa, takes on the lecherous men in a physical fight, where he, on his own, ends up defeating the thugs–yes, all twenty-six of them.

6. Girl Attends to Boy’s Scars

Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noJ5xXPD2T8

For some reason, even though Mr. Bad Boy was able to come out from the fight scene seemingly scratch-less, he somehow ends up having some pretty bloody cuts that need to be seriously treated, and who else is there to serve as his personal medic and to give him professional medical attention? That’s right! The female lead!

Even though he can take a few punches to the stomach and a few kicks to the face, he winces dramatically every time his Florence Nightingale puts a washcloth to his battle scars. Next comes the dreadful line of the female lead telling him that ~he didn’t have to do what he did~, and though she disapproves of his actions, she gives him a tender “thank you” in the realization that he may not be the bad boy she thought he was after all; maybe he’s just misunderstood! (Also, this trope is a pretty good excuse to get the male lead shirtless.)

GO TO PAGE 2 TO SEE OTHER FILIPINO ROM-COM CLICHES

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