This might not be the typical expat blog, written by a German expat, living in the Philippines since 1999. It's different. In English and in German. Check it out! Enjoy reading!
Dies mag' nun wirklich nicht der typische Auswandererblog eines Deutschen auf den Philippinen sein. Er soll etwas anders sein. In Englisch und in Deutsch! Viel Spass beim Lesen!
You plan to move to the Philippines? Wollen Sie auf den Philippinen leben?
There are REALLY TONS of websites telling us how, why, maybe why not and when you'll be able to move to the Philippines. I only love to tell and explain some things "between the lines". Enjoy reading, be informed, have fun and be entertained too!
Ja, es gibt tonnenweise Webseiten, die Ihnen sagen wie, warum, vielleicht warum nicht und wann Sie am besten auf die Philippinen auswandern könnten. Ich möchte Ihnen in Zukunft "zwischen den Zeilen" einige zusätzlichen Dinge berichten und erzählen. Viel Spass beim Lesen und Gute Unterhaltung!
Visitors of germanexpatinthephilippines/Besucher dieser Webseite.Ich liebe meine Flaggensammlung!
Every December, the Pantone Color Institute leads the way in predicting the trending hue for the coming year. For 2026, it veers away from deep and vibrant tones as it announces Pantone 11-4201 Cloud Dancer as its top pick.
A lofty white described as “a symbol of calming influence in a society,” Cloud Dancer promotes deep calm and concentration, giving the mind space to drift and creativity to flourish, opening the door to new ideas.
“At this time of transformation, when we are reimagining our future and our place in the world, Pantone 11-4201 Cloud Dancer is a discrete white hue offering a promise of clarity,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of Pantone Color Institute. “The cacophony that surrounds us has become overwhelming, making it harder to hear the voices of our inner selves. A conscious statement of simplification, Cloud Dancer enhances our focus, providing release from the distraction of external influences."
According to the Color Institute, Cloud Dancer “invites a space where function and feeling intertwine to build atmospheres of serenity and spaciousness, providing a refuge of visual cleanliness that inspires well-being and lightness.”
In selecting the Color of the Year, Pantone’s global team of experts studies color influences from various fields such as the film and fashion industries, travel destinations, design trends, and socio-economic conditions. More recently, they have also considered new technologies, materials, textures, and social media, among other factors, to determine the perfect hue for each year.
It started with a countdown. And as the numbers came close to the end, all I could think about was: after years of listening to their songs and writing about their journey, I’m about to witness Blackpink perform live. When Rosé, Lisa, Jisoo, and Jennie emerged onstage with their anthem “Kill This Love” in the background, the Philippine Arena wasn’t just filled with pink twinkling lights, but with pure joy and a celebration of how music moves people and transcends language—and I couldn’t believe I was part of that moment.
Blackpink members Rosé, Lisa, Jisoo, and Jennie send hearts to Blinks.
Pre-concert excitement
This is the third time South Korean girl group Blackpink has included the Philippines as one of its stops for their world tour, the first one in 2019 with “In Your Area,” followed by “Born Pink” in 2023. Like their last show, the “Deadline” World Tour was a two-day event, much to the delight of Filipino Blinks. I was lucky enough to be part of the first day of the concert on Nov. 22, 2025.
That day, the Philippine Arena in Bulacan was dressed in pink and black courtesy of the creative ensembles of fans. Despite the heat, everyone was all smiles, checking out their looks and applying makeup while sitting on the grassy lawns. Their giddiness was hard to hide, which eased my nerves as it was my first time attending their concert—and doing it alone.
Purchasing Blackpink merch made easier with Maya Black Visa Credit Card and Pink Glitter Edition Maya Visa Card
Visa and Maya’s photobooths
Visa and Maya’s photobooths
When the gates opened, some ran as fast as they could to get into the arena. Others, like myself, took time to check out the different booths in the venue. Visa and Maya set up various booths where Blinks could take snaps of their “Deadline” weekend and score a Vee bag charm after. I also made sure to visit the merchandise stall outside the arena and got a shirt, which I easily purchased with my Maya Visa card.
An ocean of pink hearts lit up the Philippine Arena.
Inside the arena, fans gathered to take photos and share stories and laughter. The perfect pregame, of course, was listening to Blackpink’s hits, which were played in the arena, hyping up everyone’s energy. Come 6 p.m., everyone in my section was seated, phones ready, and light sticks glowing, creating a sea of pink hearts. Then the lights dimmed and the countdown began.
Special moments on stage
Blackpink kicked off the concert’s Act 1 on a high note with hits such as “Kill This Love,” “Pink Venom,” and “How You Like That.” Flames, pyrotechnics, smoke machines, graphic backgrounds, and laser lights added spectacle to their performance.
Act 1 of the ‘Deadline’ concert featured many of Blackpink’s iconic anthems.
Act 2 put the spotlight on Jisoo and Lisa, as they performed their solo hits like “Earthquake” and “Your Love” for the former, and “Thunder” and “When I'm With You” for the latter.
The girls gathered again onstage for Act 3. It started with some of Blackpink’s fiercer, high-energy hits. But for me, the highlight of the act was their performance of “Stay” and “Lovesick Girls,” which presented a softer side of the members, somehow setting the tone for the upcoming moments.
Blackpink members sharing a moment onstage.
Jennie took the stage on her own to begin Act 4 with her “Starlight” and “Like Jennie” performances. Rosé’s solo set was more stripped down. Before taking the stage, she tried a Filipino snack, turon, and gave it a thumbs up. Perhaps the most vulnerable part of the concert was when Rosé powered through her “Number One Girl” with the help of Filipino Blinks. The singer confessed to being sick the night before and not having the confidence to be onstage.
“We took a little break, but now we are back,” Rosé said. “I must say, sometimes, I forget how to do things live. Some days, I don’t feel like Blackpink… But as we are rising, and you guys are cheering for us, it reminded me. You guys made me feel like Blackpink.”
Act 5 brought the girls back to the stage to perform their latest hits.
That was one of the many moments of the evening when Filipino Blinks were able to show love and support to Blackpink. Sometimes, it is not about them hitting every note or executing every move flawlessly onstage. Rosé, Jisoo, Lisa, and Jennie have touched their hearts beyond music, inspiring fans with their authenticity, resilience, and passion.
Act 5 was a party with their “Jump” song. In these last moments, the members took time to acknowledge the crowd, looking at the unique and quirky signboards, getting closer to fans, and waving as high as they could to make everyone feel seen. And when everyone thought it was over, the girls returned to the stage to give everyone a proper goodbye and thank you with “See U Later.”
Back together, stronger than ever
The “Deadline” World Tour was a special moment for Blinks as it marked the reunion of the four members after briefly pursuing solo paths. Each act of the concert was woven together with short videos of the girls on a road trip, from the urban jungle and Las Vegas to the Wild West. Throughout the concert, Blackpink also took fans on an emotional ride—one that reminded everyone of the power of music and coming together, no matter the situation.
Jennie, Rosé, Lisa, and Jisoo taking a bow and bidding Blinks farewell.
The Philippine Arena glowed in pink to celebrate the success of the ‘Deadline’ concert’s Day 1.
The concert’s first show in Bulacan was a shared space and moment filled with cheers, chants, and moments of pure bliss, proving that the bond between Blackpink and their fans remains unshakable—and I’m sure nobody can kill that love.
Saed El-Achkar, president of H&M’s Region East Asia and Greater China
On Sept. 19, 2025, at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Taguig City, guests from South Korea, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Singapore gathered to toast the unveiling of H&M’s fall-winter 2025 collections. The celebration began with a TikTok masterclass, followed by a showcase of the brand’s striking new pieces—all of which are now available in stores and online.
As the sun set over Manila, the soirée came alive with a runway show featuring ensembles infused with British nostalgia, ’90s grunge, and ’80s glamour. Joining the celebration was Saed El-Achkar, president of H&M’s Region East Asia and Greater China.
Bela Padilla
Mika Salamanca
Malaysia’s Eyka Farhana, Juwei Teoh, and Jestinna Kuan
Camille Co
Laureen Uy
Michelle Dee
Catriona Gray
Singapore’s Rachel Wong, Tyler Ten, and Willabelle Ong
Jung Jin Young
Chie Filomeno
Vietnam’s Tran Tieu Vy, Doan Thien An, and Nguyen Cao Ky Duyen
LA Aguinaldo
“I want to say a huge thank you to all of you for being with us here today,” Saed said as he raised a toast. “You are an incredible support to us on the journey H&M is on—to liberate fashion for the many—and you make sure that we are accessible to everyone. We are also inspiring people around the world, and you’ve played an incredible role in that.”
Lea Salonga as The Witch, Mikkie Volante as the Baker's Wife, and Nyoy Volante as the Baker in Theatre Group Asia's "Into the Woods." (Photo by Mark Alvarez)
By John Legaspi
Published Aug 12, 2025 03:47 pm
Ever since the announcement of its stellar cast, Theatre Group Asia’s (TGA) production of “Into The Wood” has had Filipinos spellbound—to the point that there are barely any tickets left to purchase. This reimagining of the beloved Stephen Sondheim musical features a cast of global Filipino artists, led by Eugene Domingo, Nyoy Volante, and internationally acclaimed thespians Arielle Jacobs, Josh Dela Cruz, and Tony Award-winner Lea Salonga, among others.
Sarah Facuri, Tex Ordoñez-De Leon, and Kakki Teodoro
Sarah Facuri, Tex Ordoñez-De Leon, and Kakki Teodoro
Josh Dela Cruz
Josh Dela Cruz
Lea Salonga
Lea Salonga
Nyoy and Mikkie Volante
Nyoy and Mikkie Volante
Clint Ramos and Chari Arespacochaga
Clint Ramos and Chari Arespacochaga
Eugene Domingo
Eugene Domingo
Teetin Villanueva
Teetin Villanueva
Rody Vera
Rody Vera
On Aug. 7, 2025, the curtains rose at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City. Leading the celebration were TGA’s overall artistic and creative director, Clint Ramos, and the musical’s director, Chari Arespacochaga. They welcomed Filipino fans eager to witness the crossroads of beloved fairy tales—infused with a distinct Filipino soul.
Through theater, TGA honors the depth and richness of Philippine history and culture, creating a space where Filipinos resonate within a global context. Its vision includes bridging gaps and fostering connections among Filipinos in the international theater community to present world-class productions by Filipinos, for Filipinos.
Christopher Mohnani and Arielle Jacobs
Christopher Mohnani and Arielle Jacobs
Mariana Zobel de Ayala and son
Mariana Zobel de Ayala and son
Nic Chien and Joyce Oreña
Nic Chien and Joyce Oreña
Fernando and Kit Zobel de Ayala with their son Alvaro and daughter Sylvia
Fernando and Kit Zobel de Ayala with their son Alvaro and daughter Sylvia
Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos
Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos
Carol Garcia, Alice Eduardo, and Pops Fernandez
Carol Garcia, Alice Eduardo, and Pops Fernandez
Adelbert Abrigonda, Iza Calzado, and Ricky Lee
Adelbert Abrigonda, Iza Calzado, and Ricky Lee
Morissette Amon and Joreen Bautista
Morissette Amon and Joreen Bautista
Martina Campos and Abby Binay
Martina Campos and Abby Binay
Cristina and Bea Elizalde
Cristina and Bea Elizalde
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and Keri Zamora
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and Keri Zamora
Crickette and Donnie Tantoco
Crickette and Donnie Tantoco
As “Into The Woods” continues its run, audiences can look forward to a production that not only entertains but also uplifts the collective Filipino voice—boldly weaving tradition, innovation, and identity into every note, step, and scene.
From his Eucharistic Mass at Luneta to his time in Tacloban, here are some highlights from the Pontiff’s visit, as captured in the pages of the Manila Bulletin.
Pope Francis, the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church and the first pontiff from Latin America, passed away peacefully in the Vatican early this morning at the age of 88. The Holy See confirmed his death in an official statement, noting that he died surrounded by close aides and in the presence of prayer.
Photo by Mark Balmores/The Manila Bulletin
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, the Pontiff captured the hearts of countless devotees—many of them Filipinos. That’s why, in January 2015, Filipinos went all out to see and hear Pope Francis during his first visit to the country. As “The Exponent of Philippine Progress,” the Manila Bulletin followed him wherever he went, chronicling the inspiring moments of his five-day visit.
Day 1: Jan. 15, 2015 Former President Benigno Aquino III, together with nine-year-old Lanie Ortillo, welcomed Pope Francis at Villamor Airbase.
The Manila Bulletin Jan. 16, 2015 front page
Day 2: Jan. 16, 2015 Pope Francis visits Malacañan Palace.
The Manila Bulletin Jan. 17, 2015 front page
Pope Francis waves at the crowd from the Popemobile on his way to Manila Cathedral.
Day 3: Jan. 17, 2015 Pope Francis steps down from a Philippine Airlines plane to visit the survivors of Typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban, Leyte.
The Manila Bulletin Jan. 18, 2015 front pageThe Manila Bulletin - Visayas News section. Jan. 18, 2015
“I will walk with you all with my heart… I have no words to tell you,” Pope Francis said. “Let us look to Christ. He is the Lord. He understands us because He underwent all the trials that we have experienced.”
Day 4: Jan. 18, 2015 Around six million people attend Pope Francis’ Eucharistic Mass at Luneta.
Hannah Pangilinan is known for many things—her style, her family, and her social media influence. But what she’s truly passionate about is running. She discovered how running could bring her closer to her family and help her shed the weight she gained during the pandemic.
Hannah Pangilinan
Eventually, it became part of her routine—but with a whole new meaning. Running became a way for her to build a deeper relationship with herself and others.
“Once the family bonding was achieved and the weight slowly left, I was left with the habit of running, and the why completely changed,” Hannah says. “I realized it was something that inspired all the other habits in my life to become better. It gave me better headspace, the chance to bond with like-minded people, and sightsee through fun runs.”
Hannah in one of Just One Fun Run
This realization encouraged her to start her own running club. Dubbed Just One, the club aims to break down misconceptions and the sense of exclusivity that often surrounds running groups. A person can be part of the community simply by showing up. For Hannah, Just One rewards presence—no matter your pace or your reason why.
In a conversation with Style Weekend, Hannah shares more about her running journey, what makes Just One a club for everyone, and how running can be one of the best ways to connect with people.
First of all, what sparked your interest in running? Is it something you share with your family? Running has always been a means to an end. It was the sport I had to do to join my family in triathlons when I was nine, and the fastest way I imagined I could shed the pandemic weight when I was 20.
Once the family bonding was achieved and the weight slowly left, I was left with the habit of running—and the why completely changed. I realized it was something that inspired all the other habits in my life to become better. It gave me better headspace, the chance to bond with like-minded people, and the opportunity to sightsee through fun runs.
Can you tell us the story behind Just One? How long has it been operating, and who are the people behind it? Just One represents my belief in the big things in life starting with small beginnings. Sometimes, we only see people’s successes, which makes starting feel so far from who we want to become. But it all begins with just one dream, one goal, one idea, or one step that brings us closer to life’s many finish lines.
The verse Zechariah 4:10 is etched on the back of every medal from last year’s run: “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.”
This is the core belief behind everything this movement was—and has become. It’s what inspired me to run my first marathon. It started with one workout, one decision to sign up, and one friend who encouraged me to run with her. I wanted to spread this message to help people overcome the fear of starting their fitness journeys and break down the intimidation that running clubs and fun runs often bring.
We started last year as a small running club of 15 people, and we've since grown into a community of 21,000 online. It seems others have embraced the message just as much as I have.
What sets Just One Fun Run apart from other running communities in the metro? Just One is a community for both seasoned and beginner runners. It highlights how running can break down the stigma and exclusivity often tied to fitness. With our running club, you're part of the community simply by being there—not because you earned it or qualified. We reward those who show up, no matter their pace or reason why.
Unlike other running clubs that meet weekly in a single location, Just One hosts pop-up runs once a month in different parts of the Philippines. This helps connect runners who share the same values and energy around running.
We’re also guided by elite running coach Ani de Leon, who ensures that participants in our Open Runs and Fun Runs receive proper guidance to run well and safely.
Finally, our Fun Run is now organized by the world-renowned The Bull Runner Dream Marathon—the first and only marathon dedicated to first- and second-time marathoners. With 14 years of experience, their mentorship has helped elevate both our community and the standards of Filipino running events.
In your opinion, what are the most common misconceptions that beginners have about running communities? Running communities are often seen as intimidating because they’re big groups of strangers. But I’ve found that everyone who shows up does so with the intention to connect. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to meet new people and stay accountable to your workout!
People think that you need to be athletic or a professional runner to join running communities, but with Just One, we have many pace groups to join. Lakwatsa, which is run walk; Sakto Lang, for the chill paces; Hataw, for the go-getters; and Banat, for the elites. Again, no matter what pace you run, you’ll find your place in the running club.
Aside from its health benefits, what do you love most about running? I love running because it’s the perfect metaphor for life. It’s taught me to put one foot in front of the other, to prepare, to persevere—and that community helps you go stronger and farther. There are countless life lessons I’ve picked up along the way.
Haruki Murakami says in his book, “I run, therefore I am.” That statement perfectly sums up how I feel. When I run, I’m reminded that I’m alive, that God gave me this capacity—and that I must use it for good, both for myself and others.
Beyond running, what else can participants look forward to at a Just One Fun Run event? Are there other activities they can join? The Just One Fun Run is happening on July 6, 2025, starting at 3 a.m. at Vermosa Sports Hub.
In the meantime, we invite runners to join our Open Runs, which are public runs held once a month in different locations. We announce the time and place of each pop-up on our Instagram (@runjustone) around two to three days before the event—so be sure to follow us for updates!
We also encourage everyone to engage with our socials for fun and informative running content.
What can we expect next from Just One Fun Run? You can expect a revamped version of last year’s experience—with more community engagement, the most fun and generous sponsors, and of course, me, Coach Ani, and the rest of the running club continuing to show up and support you in your running journey.
Curating a look for the summer season should always be fun, vibrant, and an invitation to adventure. But if fashion inspiration isn’t hitting you right now, you may want to take some stylish cues from the characters you see on film and TV. These characters aren’t just fashionable—they embody a mood, making summer dressing about more than just staying cool.
(Photo from academymuseum.org/Paramount Pictures)
Ripley and Dickie Despite its thriller genre, "The Talented Mr. Ripley" offers gents everywhere endless inspiration for laid-back yet suave looks—perfect for city strolls or coastal sailing. Dickie’s style screams old-school class with his sweater polo and white shorts. Ripley’s, on the other hand, is all about the timeless charm of wardrobe staples, from crisp button-downs to impeccably cut trousers.
We recommend: Perry Ellis’ striped short-sleeve woven camp shirt, casual short-sleeve shirt, and Vincent sneakers.
(Photo from HBO)
Saxon and Lochlan Ratliff Across all three seasons, "The White Lotus" has flawlessly captured the essence of dream-worthy travel through its costume design. The looks are all about next-level prints and bold color pairings—a total opposite of quiet luxury. In season three, the Ratliff brothers, Saxon and Lochlan, upped the ante for men’s resort wear with their playful choices in tops and swim shorts.
We recommend: Original Penguin’s hibiscus scene print swim shorts, Ecovero tropical leaf print shirt, and Ecovero sun check print shirt.Pjo
(Photo from Warner Bros. Pictures)
Tashi Duncan When it comes to sports luxe, one of the best references is the movie "Challengers." Its female lead, tennis player Tashi Duncan, demonstrates effortlessly chic style choices—thanks to the film’s costume designer, Jonathan Anderson. One of her most iconic looks is an all-white tennis ensemble, easily reinterpreted for the streets with just a few added accessories.
We recommend: Original Penguin’s Veronica dress, women’s color-block skort, and Veronica sleeveless polo.
For more style picks, head over to Original Penguin and Perry Ellis’ first-ever dual-brand store in the Philippines. Located at Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City, the new concept store features both brands’ latest collections, suited for any summer adventure.
Visit anthem.com.ph or follow @originalpenguinph, @perryellisph, and @anthemgroupph on Instagram to stay updated.
