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!
Don’t be like the rest of them, darling. —Coco Chanel
Tootsy Angara, James Reid, Trickie Lopa, Sarah Labati, Xandra Rocha Marcos, and Donny Pangilinan
In a dazzling confluence of culture, creativity, and charisma, Tatler Philippines mounted Tatler Asia’s grand reveal of Asia’s Most Stylish 2024 at The Gallery at Greenbelt 5, shining the spotlight on our very own stylesetters.
The Filipinos on the list were headed by Heart Evangelista, who sadly could not make it on account of Milan Fashion Week. Nevertheless, like Christian Tantoco and Carl Jan Cruz, who were also unable to attend, she was warmly acknowledged among the nine from the Philippines who have been counted among the most stylish in the region this year.
Let’s hear it for the six, whose presence at the grand reveal did make the evening sizzle with bold self-expression and creativity, a key criterion in the annual search.
Sam Thurman and Stephanie Zubiri
In a gown from Carl Jan Cruz’s “International Interbarangay 2023” collection, Trickie Lopa went up the stage at the recognition ceremony hosted by Stephanie Zubiri and Sam Thurman. Her eye for art, as co-founder of Art Fair Philippines, is reflected in the way she plays with her body as a canvas of expression.
Jessica Kienle Maxwell, Xandra Rocha Marcos, Shauna Jay Popple, and Isabel Francisco
Xandra Rocha wore “something fun, feminine, and flirty,” the keywords she used when she collaborated with Rajo Laurel on a dress custommade for the occasion.
Standing tall on towering Yves Saint Laurent stilettos and stunning in a Chynna Mamawal blazer and black lace bodysuit, Sarah Lahbati spoke of fashion as “a celebration of creativity and self-expression.”
Tootsy Angara wore joy, a pink cocktail dress adorned with bows and her heart on her sleeves. How to achieve her wearable optimism? “I surround myself with people I love.”
James Reid and Donny Pangilinan
James Reid took the spotlight in Bagasáo, a brand on the rise representing his advocacy for Filipino designers. “Representing local fashion on the global stage is both an honor and a source of pride,” he said.
In tip-to-toe Louis Vuitton, Donny Pangilinan brought his sisters Hannah and Ella Pangilinan along because, as he shared lightheartedly, they have been their worst critics when it comes to personal expression.
Hannah Pangilinan, Sarah Lahbati, Donny Pangilinan, and Ella Pangilinan
“These are the style connoisseurs who are never afraid to push boundaries and show us what true style means,” said Tatler Philippines’ managing director Irene Martel Francisco in her opening speech, which was more a reminder that while trends might come and go, authenticity and bold expression would forever reign supreme.
Camille Villar and Allana Montelibano
Patrick Coard, Antonio Ressano, and Scott Woodward
Marga Nograles, Techie Hagedorn, Rocio Olbes, and Jet Acuzar Atienza
Ricky Toledo, Junie Peña, Natalia Peña, and Chito Vijandre
Bayang Barrios is one of the Philippines’ most iconic folk musicians. She is known for her commitment to preserving indigenous culture and giving a voice to the Lumad, a collective term for indigenous groups in Mindanao.
Bayang Barrios
Ateneo de Davao University recently recognized singer Bayang Barrios as its 2024 recipient of the Fr. Theodore Daigler Award for Culture and Arts for her music and advocacies.
Gossip Girl was able to talk to Bayang, a Manobo Triber from Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, “It was a real surprise for me, and it’s an honor I’ll take with me forever. Mindanao Culture is in everything that I do. Our rights, particularly those of the indigenous tribespeople in the south, have always informed my craft.”
Bayang Barrios is one of the Philippines’ most iconic folk musicians. She is known for her commitment to preserving indigenous culture and giving a voice to the Lumad, a collective term for indigenous groups in Mindanao. Her music, which blends modern folk with traditional Indigenous sounds, is a celebration of the country’s diverse cultural heritage and a call for justice and recognition for marginalized communities. Bayang grew up in a region where traditions were deeply rooted in the daily lives of her people; she was immersed in the rich oral and musical traditions of the Manobo tribe. These early influences and her exposure to mainstream Filipino music would shape her distinct sound as an artist. Her family’s experience as part of a marginalized indigenous group deeply affected her worldview, and it became a defining force behind her music. She sought to create music that entertained and educated people about indigenous Filipinos' struggles and contributions. From my interview with Bayang, I was particularly struck with these powerful words from the arad-winning singer, “I am so lucky to have these opportunities, as they allow me to share not just my music, but the music of our Indigenous Peoples, their cultures and their significance to our national fabric, through my songs. I fervently hope that a New Morning dawns on every one of us, regardless of how dire a situation we may find ourselves in. We need to realize that the sun rises every day, and it is a gift of renewal that should never be taken for granted.”
This major opportunity she is mentioning is not only her new award but also that she is back in the concert arena as she stages her second solo show, “Bagong Umaga,” at the Music Museum on Oct. 26.
Bayang Barrios tells me that she is so blessed to be able to feature her brand of music in the 2024 concert scene, “World Music and especially Filipino music has its place in pop culture, and I am so happy to see many new bands and artists infuse their music with elements that are 'sariling atin'! I hope many of your readers of the Manila Bulletin will come to see the show. Mike and I are very proud of the music we have prepared for it, some re-imaginings of my songs, also of classic OPM, and new material we wrote for a new album we’re releasing later this year.” Mike Villegas is the better half of Bayang Barrios. The Rizal Underground guitarist who popularized the songs 'Sabado Nights' and 'Bilanggo' has married Bayang Barrios for 22 years, “Mike and I have known each other for so long. We were boyfriend and girlfriend off and on for 11 years before tying the knot back in 2002. Bandmates, we wrote many songs together, such as 'Bagong Umaga,' which made it to the 1996 Metropop. Although it didn’t place, it has shone like a beacon all these years for us, with its many shared triumphs in chorale competitions worldwide. When we got married in 2002, it was the same year I won the 2002 Metropop with my entry, “Malayo Man Malapit Din”, while Mike placed 2nd with 'Pretend That I Don’t Love You!' We’ve co-produced many albums since, under my record label, which incidentally bears the name of our one and only child, our daughter Mayumi. She was diagnosed with mild autism, but she’s coping, and she was blessed with perfect pitch! She is a real blessing, a beautiful symbol of God’s love for Mike and myself.”
Throughout her career, Bayang Barrios has used her platform to advocate for indigenous people's rights and raise awareness of their plight. The Lumad, in particular, have faced displacement and violence due to ongoing conflicts over land in Mindanao. Through her music, Bayang Barrios has highlighted their struggles, often singing in her native dialect to emphasize the importance of cultural preservation. Truly, Bayang Barrios is a champion of the indigenous rights of Mindanao tribes and environmental activism.
MANILA, Philippines — Lakbay Magazine, a premiere bi-monthly publication dedicated to the vibrant tourism and hospitality sectors of the country, and the world, was officially launched through an intimate ceremony at its office in Lucky Chinatown Hotel.
"We are thrilled to launch Lakbay, a publication that embodies the spirit of Philippine tourism and hospitality. Our goal is to showcase the beauty, culture, and unique experiences that our country offers; inspiring both local and international travelers to explore and appreciate the Philippine destinations more," enthused Enrico Sy, chairman of the magazine's board of directors.
Manila vice mayor Yul Servo, Taytay vice mayor Pia Cabral, and Department of Tourism's accreditation officer-in-charge Dmitriv Ivannovich were among the dignitaries who graced the occasion.
"The support we have received from the hotel industry and business sector is truly heartwarming. Today, we celebrate not just the launch of a magazine but also the continuous growth of our country's tourism industry," said Lualhati Fausto, executive editor and founder of Lakbay.
Lakbay Magazine aims to be the leading source of information and inspiration for travelers and industry professionals by offering insightful articles, captivating photography, and comprehensive guides to the best destinations, accommodations, and experiences in and around the Philippines' 7,147 islands.
While reading up on the art of drag and the club called Rampa, it’s possible that you will encounter new terms or words like “AFAB” and “AMAB,” “bear,” “watermelon” and “hyperfeminine.”
This article will not only attempt to best explain them to you but also make you realize that there’s more to drag than dressing up and performing in highly stylized ways.
Club owner RS Francisco
Rampa started because club owner RS Francisco said he wanted to build “a safe place” for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. His friends suggested that he invite the Divine Divas, one of the most celebrated drag trios in the country, to be coowners of this establishment located on Eugenio Lopez Drive in Quezon City.
Francisco, who had never been to a drag show before, said: “I thought they were talking about Zsa Zsa Padilla (who is also tagged as the ‘Divine Diva’). I really had no idea! I googled them and was surprised to discover how popular these three already are,” added Francisco, who is also an award-winning actor and film producer. He was referring to the drag trio Precious Paula Nicole, Viñas DeLuxe and Brigiding.
Zsa Zsa Padilla (center) with drag trio Brigiding, Precious Paula Nicole and Viñas DeLuxe
For the “lesbian market,” Francisco said he reached out to singer-actor Ice Seguerra and his partner Liza Dino, and convinced them to join the group. He then tapped Paulo Castro and Darryl Reciña as creative directors.
When Rampa opened to the public on Feb. 17, it became the first-ever drag club in Quezon City “that is inclusive and safe,” said Francisco.
Zsa Zsa Padilla
“I wasn’t a fan of drag, but I’ve learned to embrace it. If you visit Rampa, you’ll see that it’s like a Christmas party where people know everyone. It’s so unlike other places where people try to outshine each other—nagpapagandahan, nagpapataasan ng ihi. We actually encourage you to toast with people you’ve never met before. Also, females are frowned upon in other clubs. In Rampa, we welcome girls, straight people—even my mortal enemies are welcome—as long as they’re 18, they order and pay,” Francisco said, laughing.
Brigiding
Taking care of the community
Castro added that Rampa has partnered with the volunteer group LoveYourself Inc., “so that every party that we do is advocacy-based.” Inside Rampa is a LoveYourself booth for HIV testing. There are also booths for Flourish, the group’s mental health arm, and for Transcend, its transgender help arm. “We make sure Rampa being a safe space is not merely lip service. It’s really taking care of the entire community,” said Castro.
This month, Rampa organized a party called “Sampa,” which is also an open-mic event but for drag. “If you want to experience everything on stage—including the lights and visuals—just bring a USB,” said Castro. You have to preregister because only five can perform each night.
Club owner RS Francisco and Zsa Zsa Padilla
The team takes their much needed break Mondays and Tuesdays. They resume on Wednesday with “Spank,” which promotes good health, and safe and responsible sex. Thursdays are reserved for special events, such as “People Like Us,” which features lesbians and transmen, or “Spectacular! Spectacular!” which celebrates “plus size men and bears,” said Castro. In gay culture, “bears” refer to men who are noticeably hairy, and are muscular and bearded.
“Divine Saturday” parties are “drag heavy” and “fantastic,” said Castro. They are shows produced by the Divine Divas, no less.
Viñas DeLuxe
Art form
“Watermelon” parties on Friday nights are arguably the most interesting. For example, during Buwan ng Wika last August, the entire Watermelon cast was required to perform original Pilipino music (OPM). “’Watermelon’ is like an eternal summer party,” added Castro. “Also, while ‘watermelon’ sounds fresh, it’s also the symbol of Palestine. Mz. Chronicles did a performance carrying the theme, ‘Free Palestine,’ and it brought people to tears.”
Drag trio Divine Divas: Brigiding, Precious Paula Nicole and Viñas DeLuxe
“Drag is a powerful tool for storytelling, especially for the young generation. They have a lot to say and they are able to express these through drag as an art form,” Castro pointed out. “That’s what’s amazing about these kids. They’ve all turned into well-rounded artists. Not only can they lip sync, they can also do super dance, theater productions and even spoken word.”
Zymba Ding
Rampa’s home-grown artists are Kiari, Katana, Zymba Ding, Felicia Ding and Bomba Ding; as well as Neenja and Kieffy Nicole, who are tagged as “AFAB Queens,” and Eeygatha, who is a transgender woman.
AFAB means assigned female at birth (as opposed to AMAB, or assigned male at birth), said Castro.
Drag kings
“As drag became more mainstream, people’s minds became more open to the idea that drag can be for anyone. You can be born female and still do drag. As of now, our AFAB Queens are still doing ‘hyperfeminine’ drag, meaning, they put on makeup and hair to look hyper feminine. But for our lesbian party on Sept. 19, they debuted as ‘drag kings’ and presented a more masculine type of drag.”
Drag trio Divine Divas: Brigiding, Precious Paula Nicole and Viñas DeLuxe
Rampa was the first to hire AFAB performers, added Castro. “We will feature AMAB artists, too. They’re already in training. I still don’t know yet what type of drag they will be producing, but it’s safe to call everyone now as drag artists—not queens or kings. Your body is your canvas. It’s up to you what you want to do with it as you perform.”
As for Francisco, he said he is still discovering so much about the drag scene because of Rampa. “I grew up during the era of ‘girl, boy, bakla, tomboy’ and the term ‘ACDC.’ Also, I realized that there’s a lot more to learn about the Sogie (sexual orientation, gender identity and expression) bill and the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. I admit to not knowing a lot of things, even though I’m already a part of the community, what more for those who aren’t? That’s why we are welcoming everyone to Rampa. Here, you will learn a thing or two about respect, kindness and compassion.”
The San Miguel group—Ninoy Aquino International Airport’s (Naia) new caretaker—and the government are already drawing heavy flak after hiking parking fees on Oct. 1.
But this may just be the start.
New Naia Infrastructure Corp. general manager Angelito Alvarez told reporters on Thursday that they might introduce before the year ends a new fee to ease the flow of traffic at the crowded airport.
Alvarez said they were studying the possibility of imposing a penalty for vehicles overstaying along the terminal driveways to encourage quicker movement in and out of the airport.
San Miguel chief Ramon Ang earlier broached this idea because he observed that some family and friends picking up and dropping off their loved ones at the airport took a long time to move their cars, thus were causing traffic.
Should this new fee be approved, it will be implemented during the holiday season when passenger volume goes up—which also means more people waiting for their loved ones to arrive.
