(SPOT.ph) Flavor comes first, of course, but there's something especially appealing about noshing on great eats while in a picturesque setting—especially one with a striking art-deco design and an even richer history. The next time the paella craving hits, consider taking a trip to the newest branch of Spanish establishment Las Flores at the Heritage Building right by Festival Mall.

Also read: 10 Great Places for Paella in Manila

Soak up the sights while noshing on hearty Spanish eats at the newest branch of Las Flores:

The Heritage Building, ICYDK, is no ordinary building. This close-to-a-century old landmark was formerly known as the Biological Production Services and goes all the way back to 1924, with some attributing its design to Juan Arellano or Juan Nakpil.

For their new branch, Las Flores goes for an elegant look and feel that's part-relaxed given its warm wooden tones, but also rightfully dignified, with Art Deco features and geometric lines mingling with playful details like patterned tiles and touches of greenery. Plus, as it's located on Festival Mall's Expansion Wing, you get privacy away from the mall crowd.

Food-wise, Las Flores hardly needs any introduction. Their paellas are topnotch—orders of the Paella Pollo y Cerdo (P1,145) with chicken, pork, and green beans and/or the Paella Pulpo (P1,015) with octopus are pretty much bound to please.

But you also don't want to miss their pintxos, tapas, and other small (yet impactful) plates—among which are the garlicky Gambas al Ajillo (P425), crisp-creamy Salmon y Salmon (P785), and savory-sweet Angus & Foie Minis (P1,245). It's also worth making room for meaty mains like the USDA Prime Rib Eye (P4,550/600 grams with baked potatoes and fresh herbs), or star seafood dishes like the Atun en Salsa Escabeche (P885) with tuna belly. Add in a round or two of their signature cocktails, and you've got the makings of a most memorable meal.

Las Flores is a Spanish restaurant owned by the Bistronomia group that opened in 2012. Their menu has evolved over the years, even expanding to offer breakfast items, but they continue to be known for their contemporary takes on Catalan eats.

Las Flores' Festival Mall branch is at the Heritage Building, UG/F Expansion Wing, Festival Mall, Civic Drive, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. For more information, check out Las Flores' Facebook page.

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(SPOT.ph) Zambales, a coastal province on the western seaboard of Luzon, is often top of mind when it comes to weekend getaways. Its interesting terrain makes sure that there's something to do for any type of traveler: private coves and nearby islands for beach-lovers, barreling waves for surfers, mountains and hills for hikers, and verdant land for campers. If you're looking for more reasons to visit Zambales, then this hidden gem might just be worth it: Mapanuepe Lake in San Marcelino.

This outdoor attraction at the foot of Mount Pinatubo features makes for perfect photographs, especially with the mountains in the background, Zambales' famous pine trees growing everywhere, carabaos grazing in all directions, and—of course—the placid lake that can easily calm your nerves. But this peaceful site has a rather tragic past.

History of Mapanuepe Lake

Mapanuepe Lake, much like the similarly gorgeous Pinatubo Lake, was formed following the cataclysmic eruption of Mount Pinatubo. The area was originally the Mapanuepe Valley, which was home to barangays Aglao, Buhawen, and Pili; and the Marella and Mapanuepe Rivers surrounding it. Both Marella and Mapanuepa drain into the Santo Tomas River, which leads to the West Philippine Sea.

After the eruption, the combination of heavy rainfall and volcanic debris produced lahar that flowed into Marella River and eventually blocked the Mapanuepe River. The rising waters ultimately submerged the Mapanuepe Valley and the whole towns in it, including a church tower. Visitors in the area can still see the tower's huge metal cross in the middle of the lake. Interestingly, studies show that the Mapanuepe Valley, even before it was turned into a lake after the 1991 event, was originally a lahar-formed lake from previous volcanic eruptions.

Also read:
Satellite Photos Show Pinatubo Lake's Formation After the 1991 Eruption
10 Resorts in Zambales Where You Can Work Remotely
10 Laid-Back Places to Stay in Zambales

What to Do

You can hop on a banca for a one-hour ride around the submerged Sta. Barbara Chapel (originally of Barangay Buhawen), then to the Mapanuepe Lake View Deck (in Barangay Aglao). Camping is also allowed in the surrounding grasslands in Aglao, just bring your own tent.

How to Get There

You can get on a bus to San Marcelino, Zambales and the ride takes about four hours. You can go to either Barangay Aglao or Barangay Buhawen by jeep. You can also bring a 4x4 and drive across the lahar-filled roads through the mountains.

(SPOT.ph) Tagaytay is a favorite out-of-town destination because of its proximity to Metro Manila so we’re not surprised if you already have your go-to restaurants when you’re in the area (some of which we’re sure you’ll find in our 10 Best Tagaytay Restaurants list!). But it’s never a bad idea to venture out of your comfort zone—especially when it comes to food. So on your next trip to Tagaytay, here are the 10 underrated food destinations you shouldn’t miss.

Also read:
This Al-Fresco Spot Is Your New Tagaytay Go-To for Farm-to-Table Dining
10 Private Cabins You Can Book in Tagaytay to Enjoy The Chilly Weather

These Tagaytay restaurants are some of the city's hidden gems:

Kuuma Kaakao Kaffe

Tagaytay’s chilly weather is the best time to have a steaming cup of hot choco, and you can get your fix at this underrated café. Kuuma Kaakao Kaffe offers Hot Chocolate not just in Classic (P95) but also in flavors like Peanut Butter (P115), Cinnamon (P115), Salted Caramel (P115), and even Mint (P105) or Basil (P105). You can get the drink iced, too, if you’re the type to have cold drinks no matter the weather. Pair your chocolate with their signature Bibingka (P40/solo, P150/pack of 4) which you can have topped with Cheese & Salted Egg, Ube, Leche Flan, or Macapuno or Puto Bumbong for Christmas-y vibes. If you’re feeling extra hungry, you can also fill up with their pasta and rice bowls—the Pininyahang Manok (P175) is not to be missed!

Kuuma Kaakao Kaffe is at Silang Junction South, Tagaytay City, Cavite.

Café Voi La

Vibrant interiors, colorful fixtures, and bright lanterns clue you in that you’re up for a Southeast Asian adventure at Café Voi La. There’s no need to go further than Tagaytay for a food trip around the region as this restaurant takes you around Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and the Philippines with their menu. Start your meal with a fresh Thai Pomelo Salad (P525) or Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls (P435) that are easy to polish off. For mains, have the Homestyle Chicken Pork Adobo (P495) or the Café Voi La Signature Curry (P635) which you can pair with Pineapple Fried Rice (P495) or Jasmine Rice (P100/small, P175/large). Cap off the meal with a Dessert Souffle (P295 to P395) or go the classically Asian route with Black Sticky Rice with Mango (P225) or Gula Melaka (P190). 

Café Voi La is at Crosswinds Resort Suites, Tagaytay City, Cavite.

Milagros Private Kitchen

For a meal that’s extra special, why not reserve a private lunch or dinner at Milagros Private Kitchen? Milagros Private Kitchen is located at the owner’s house with a dining area good for up to 24 guests and its own garden, so it almost feels like being invited to someone’s home for a good meal. Adding to the homey vibe is their menu of heirloom Filipino dishes with ingredients from Tagaytay’s local markets. You can fully customize your set menu depending on what you’re craving: We recommend the vibrant Kilawin na Tanigue marinated in citrus, the Milagros Mechado, a family recipe that features beef sirloin slow-cooked in tomatoes, and Crispy Tawilis, a Tagaytay staple that’s served here with a green mango ensalada and salted egg. 

Milagros Private Kitchen is at 1640 Maglave Drive, Barangay. Guinhawa South, Tagaytay City, Cavite. Reservations must be done 3 to 5 days in advance through 09174654617 or 09062043248.

Verdiview Restaurant

For classic Filipino food in hearty, family-friendly servings, head to Verdiview Restaurant. Lush greenery, bahay-kubo inspired dining nooks, and an indoor waterfall also makes you feel like you’re dining in nature. Nilagang Bulalo (P330/small, P600/large) is always a must when in Tagaytay, but you can also have the classic in a new form with their Sizzling Bulalo Steak (P480). Another must-try is the Sizzling Pork Sisig (P190), which you can wash down with ice-cold beer, thanks to their Beer Bucket Combos. 

Verdiview Restaurant is at Brgy. Luksuhin Ilaya (Tagaytay-Nasugbu Road Highway), Alfonso, Tagaytay City, Cavite. 

Rest-Art

Dining at Rest-Art is a feast both for your eyes and belly. The restaurant-slash-art-gallery regularly features art pieces by local artists, which you can also purchase. Or you can simply admire them while you chow down on their version of Tagaytay favorites like Special Bulalo (P469) and Tawilis (P180). If you’re just in the mood for coffee, check out their extensive menu which has the basics like Café Latte (P150) and Café Mocha (P160) to more fun drinks like a Strawberry Latte (P195/iced) and Ube Lava Latte (P195). 

Rest-Art is at Tagaytay-Calamba Road, Tagaytay City, Cavite.

Napa 

Napa is another must-visit if you find yourself at Crosswinds Resort Suites. The restaurant takes inspiration from Napa Valley’s vineyards with quaint and rustic interiors and an al-fresco area that offers a picturesque view of the surrounding lush forest. It even gets cozier at night with the fairy lights. Of course, Napa offers an extensive wine selection which you can have with a Deli & Cheese Platter (P900). The mains here are extra hefty though so it’s best to come hungry. Fill up with a Long Drive Breakfast (P525) complete with all your morning faves—sausages, bacon, waffles, and egg—or sink your teeth into the juicy Truffle Burger (P415). You also can’t go wrong with a Rustic Margherita Pizza (P570/10-inch, P770-14-inch) and Garlic Parmesan Wings (P455).

Napa is at Crosswinds Resort Suites, Tagaytay City, Cavite.

Cheza’s Restaurant Walastik

When in Tagaytay, it’s a must to dine at a restaurant with a great view of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. Cheza’s Restaurant Walastik offers exactly that—though if their patio dining area overlooking Taal Lake gets too crowded, having your meal inside isn’t so bad, too, thanks to the cozy, homey ambiance. You can find Tagaytay classics at this restaurant like Taal Lake Deep Fried Tawilis (P280) and Beef Shank Bulalo (P840) as well as family favorites like pasta, pizza, and burgers.

Cheza’s Restaurant Walastik is at Tagaytay-Nasugbu Road, Alfonso, Tagaytay City, Cavite.

Dahon at Mesa

Another restaurant that offers a great view of Taal Lake and Volcano is Dahon at Mesa, but the real attraction here is the Boodle Fight Feast (P2,650). Prepare to get messy as you dig in a spread that includes fried tawilis, crispy fried tilapia, garlic buttered shrimp, roast chicken, lechon kawali, grilled squid, lumpiang shanghai, ensaladang itlog na pula, and, of course, five cups of rice. This comes with a dessert of the day, too, so better leave room for that no matter how hard it sounds. The Boodle Fight Feast also comes in a feast good for 10 (P5,250) and even for two (P1,200). If you’re not up for a boodle fight, you can also have their mains a la carte, like the Special Bulalo (P580) and Crispy Pata (P650).

Dahon at Mesa is at 105 Tagaytay - Nasugbu Highway 4120 Tagaytay City, Cavite.

Trattoria Mario Mio

If you’re in the mood for proper Italian fare in Tagaytay, Trattoria Mario Mio is a must-visit. This charming Italian restaurant is owned by Paolo Nesi of L’Opera Ristorante, so you know you and your taste buds are in good hands. Featuring distressed brick walls, patterned tiles, and wooden fixtures, Trattoria Mario Mio feels like dining at the home of an Italian nonna, immediately setting the mood for what they have to offer—which is plenty. Start off with a Cestino di Parmigiano con Bresaula, Mango e Parmigiano (P410) or a crispy Parmesan cheese basket filled with Bresaula dried beef and fresh mango served with arugula.  For pasta, get the decadent Tortelli d' Anatra Al Profumo di Tartufo (P485) with homemade duck-filled ravioli in truffle sauce, while for pizza you can’t go wrong with the Mario Mio Pizza (P450), the house pizza with spiced salami, anchovies, blue cheese, and mozzarella. 

Trattoria Mario Mio is at Km 48, Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City, Cavite.

Deli de San Honore

Deli de San Honore may be part of our 10 Best Tagaytay Restaurants list but this spot is still pretty underrated in our books. The deli immediately catches the eye with their clean and minimalist look with potted plants adding to the homey vibe. While the deli may look small from the outside, the deli also houses an al-fresco dining area in their garden at the back. Deli de San Honore first started as a bakeshop and deli, but now they are also a restaurant with a menu of comfort food by Chef Jeremy Joson. The Herb de Provence Porkchop (P380) with garlic rice, French beans, and sweet pickle chips is a must-try, as well as the D’ Deli’s signature brick oven pizza (P480) with jambon blanc, truffle oil, arugula, and egg. 

Deli de San Honore is at 9060 Zambal Road, Barangay Neogan, Tagaytay City.

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(SPOT.ph) What comes to mind when you think of Laguna? That’s right: nature, cool winds, hot springs, the smell of flowers, and damp grass. An earthy getaway near bustling, urban activity. Despite the rapid urbanization of some areas, most of Laguna still remains as pristine and earth-friendly as it had been decades ago, making it ideal for mental detoxes and staycations. What better way to realign yourself than at a cozy cafe serving authentic, natural coffee products? What better way to refocus than spending time closer to nature?

We’ve gathered this list of underrated, under-the-radar cafes and coffee shops in different areas of Laguna for you to pick from. So settle down, grab a cup of coffee, and forget everything else in the world.

Also read: 10 Cafés in Cebu That Can Put You in a Productive Mood

These local coffee shops in Laguna ought to be on your bucket list for your next roadtrip:

Owl Fab Cafe

Green plants and monochromatic interiors greet you as you step inside this restaurant and cafe. There’s even a table with a row of swings for seats, making it a perfect place to unwind as well as to work or study. You can also unleash your inner diva—or just destress and belt your heart out—by singing karaoke with friends or family in their private VIP room.

Owl Fab Caffe serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. They offer both Western and Filipino food. Aside from their frappes and lattes, they have a variety of flavored milk-tea drinks too.

Owl Fab Caffe is at 2/F Trimacs Building, San Agustin, Alaminos, Laguna.

Patis Tito Garden Café

Surrounded by lush, fragrant greenery and flora, Patis Tito makes for a perfect getaway from stress and urban life. Wide windows with colored glass panels and wooden furniture accentuate its interiors. Enjoy their versions of local delicacies such as vegetarian kare-kare, sinigang na bangus, and Filipino-style fried chicken along with their fresh fruit juices and teas. Patis Tito is also known for their desserts that include the Turon Con Latik (a.k.a. turon with bits of coconut milk residue).

Set meals are also available for big groups ranging from P1,300 to P2,200 per pax.

Patis Tito Garden Cafe is at 285 Santa Cruz, San Pablo City, Laguna.

Bertie's Artisan Bakeshop

A small, charming, au naturale bakery and café with wooden exteriors and interiors, Bertie’s Artisan Bakeshop offers a hearty retreat from the business of life. Whether you opt for indoor dining or al fresco, you will get to enjoy the same delightful treats.

This bakery is well known for the sweet yet delicate-tasting baked products. Start with a hearty meal of pasta, sandwiches, or pizza. Afterwards, try their strawberry walnut brownies, old-fashioned moist chocolate cake, or pumpkin cinnamon rolls. These are just some of their specialties—but they’ve got plenty others that you can choose from.

Bertie’s Artisan Bakeshop is at Bucal Bypass Road, Calamba, Laguna.

Siento Café

Awash in shades of cream and teal, Siento Café seems humble and chic all at once. Its wooden interiors and indoor plants instantly make you feel at home. However, its relaxing allure also helps you focus on what you need to do. No wonder it’s popular among students of nearby schools such as the Los Baños campus of the University of the Philippines.

Siento Cafe brews up rich-tasting coffee drinks, indulgent frappes and shakes, and delightful yet good-for-you fruit drinks. They offer fairly affordable pasta dishes, sandwiches, and fries as well, ranging from P110 to P155. You may choose to dine in or go al fresco.

Siento Café is at 10697 Elon-elon Street, Santa Fe Subdivision College, Los Baños, Laguna.

Sulyap Gallery Café - Boutique Hotel and Restaurant

With a distinct Spanish-era Filipino charm, Sulyap Gallery Café takes you back into the past. This restaurant is part of a small boutique hotel and bed-and-breakfast surrounded by nature and filled with antique decorations and furniture. Enjoy its Insta-worthy scenery while delighting yourself with their food servings. Most of their menu includes traditional Filipino food, including Ginataang Baka (beef and papaya drenched in coconut milk) and Crispy Tilapia with oyster sauce. But they serve delicious fusion food too, including the Pasta con Chorizo (Spanish chorizo pasta) and their specialty, Tulingan Pasta, which is pasta with flaked tuna.

Sulyap Gallery Cafe - Boutique Hotel and Restaurant is at Barangay Del Remedio, Cocoland Compound, San Pablo City, Laguna.

Hugoteara Cafe

If there’s one thing that makes Hugoteara Cafe stand out among the other places in this list, it’s their penchant for all things chees. From their cheesecakes to their Cheesecake Series milk tea, Hugoteara offers creamy and cheesy drinks, treats, and sweets fit for any occasion. Hugoteara also mixes up Cucumber Lemonade juices (starts at P30)—perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.

Another creative thing about Hugoteara’s menu are their titles for milk tea flavors and sizes. Instead of Regular, Large, and Extra Large, you get Single, Dating, and Taken. The milk tea flavors have memorably long titles such as Ang lovelife ko parang dagat, maalat (Sea Salt Caramel) and Ikaw at Ako, Match Tayo (Matcha). The milk teas, frappes, and juices get more expensive the better your romantic situation is, but all prices range in between P30 to P170.

Hugoteara Cafe is located at 39 S. Cajudo Street, Brgy. Magdalo 4021 Famy, Laguna.

Popoy’s Kapihan

Named after their house doggo Popoy, this cozy little garden cafe is an unexpected haven surrounded by lush natural scenery and sounds. You can pet Popoy and other dogs while savoring a cup of hot or iced coconut coffee, their speciality, which is best paired with cheesecake. The slices of pandesal in their Ham and Egg Sandwich suit well with cappuccino and make for a wonderful breakfast treat. They also serve cheesy, delectable thin-crust pizzas.

Popoy’s Kapihan can be found in the RBR Garden along Manila South Road, Los Baños, Laguna.

Santan Cafe

Along the highway, this charming little café is a hidden gem and a relatively private sanctuary from the rush and bustle of the world just outside it. Outside, you can see hectares of farm lands. Explore the small gardens filled with colorful flowers and healthy plants which you can buy and take home. Purchase charms, sprays, and hand-painted recycled materials such as pencil holders and flat plates from the shelves of the adjacent giftship. But what makes this place so special, aside from its privacy, is the food, and their affordable prices for the quality of their taste. Their fruity-herby Passionfruit with Tarragon juice (P75) is highly recommended.

Santan Cafe is located along the National Highway, Barangay Dayap, 4012 Calauan, Laguna.

Jardín de Joie

Though more of a restaurant than a café, Jardin de Joie goes all the way when it comes to variety. Their saffron-infused Seafood Paella is packed with flavor from shrimps, mussels, and clams, among other seafood. Their servings of pasta make for memorable lunches—Chicken Florentine and Seafood Aglio Olio are common favorites. They also have a wide selection of coffee-based, cream-based, ice-blended drinks, and fruit teas.

Jardin de Joie is an ideal place for unwinding after a long road trip because of its proximity to nature and its breathtaking interior design. Plants accentuate the pretty and tranquil landscape. The interiors are a lush white with hints of simple elegance and fairy-tale charm.

Jardin de Joie is located at 5024 National Hi-way, Maahas, Los Baños, Laguna.

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(SPOT.ph) The city of Baybay in Leyte was recently hit by a landslide—destroying homes and even the lives of a number of locals. Among those affected is Malyn, a team member of Manila-based restaurant Bad Bird who lost her home and family of 15—extended family members included—due to the incident. With that, the establishment is donating 100% of its proceeds tomorrow, April 13, to help Malyn out.

Also read: What It’s Like to Cook for Frontliners, Straight From a Chef

Help out a member of the Bad Bird team while getting your fill of their famous chicken:

You can opt to order via dine-in or delivery—for the latter, options include ordering straight from their website or coursing your orders through GrabFood or Foodpanda. Consider this your excuse to sate that hankering for their famous Umami Fried Chicken—not that you need an excuse, but there's nothing like the warm and fuzzy feeling of knowing you're helping others out while getting your fried-chicken fix too. 

"Any amount will help. Malyn will appreciate any kind of support that goes her way in this difficult time," Lowbrow Casual Restaurants writes in a social media post. And if you'd prefer to help Malyn directly, you've also got the option to send your donations straight to store manager (and friend of Malyn) Alma via GCash at 0926-016-5624.

Bad Bird is a homegrown restaurant from the Lowbrow Casual Restaurants group. They're best known for their Umami Fried Chicken and other feisty eats with East-Asian influences.

Bad Bird is at 3/F Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. For delivery orders, visit the Bad Bird section of Eat Lowbrow's website or find Bad Bird on GrabFood or Foodpanda. You can also check out Lowbrow Casual Restaurants' Facebook page.

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(SPOT.ph) Summer is here and with that comes a long list of what are hopefully some exciting travel plans. And while we’re sure that you want to hit up beach spots and mountains or maybe even start traveling out of the country again, there's one thing that’ll always be a constant no matter where you choose to go: the need for  great tunes to keep you company on your trips.

Also read: 10 Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers to Level Up Your Beach Playlist

There are probably a ton of other things on your list of travel essentials, but today we’re putting the spotlight on mini Bluetooth speakers that’ll be the perfect companions on the road and in far-off destinations. And if you’re someone who wants to pack light, we’ve made sure to round up only speakers that are small enough to fit on the palm of your hand. You'll have no problem packing these in your suitcase and bringing them everywhere you go!

Here are 10 mini Bluetooth speakers that are perfect for your summer travels:

JBL Clip 4 (P3,549)

The JBL Clip 4 is an ultra-portable waterproof speaker that packs a punch. The handy design lets you clip the speaker to your backpack so you aren’t using up valuable bag space when traveling with it. As far as sound quality goes, you can expect JBL’s classic punchy bass and rich audio, so you can keep the tunes going no matter where you are. 

See a list of JBL retailers.

Lexon Mino+ BT Speakers (P1,990)

This Bluetooth speaker by Lexon is tiny enough to be pocketed, but don’t let its size fool you: you get a full 3W sound output in a fun-sized package that promises up to three hours of playtime when fully charged. But if you want to keep your sounds going, the Lexon Mino+ also has wireless charging capabilities—so if you already have wireless chargers for other devices, that’s just one less cable to bring around during your travels.

Available on the Rustan's website.

Sony XB13 XTRA BASS Portable Wireless Speaker (P2,999)

This portable wireless speaker from Sony is the perfect companion for the adventurer that likes their bass thumping. You won’t believe the powerful sound that comes from such a tiny package. It features a clever design that lets you hang the speaker however you want—whether it’s from your wrist, on your backpack, or way up high from a beach umbrella—and still make sure the sound points directly at you. One of the best parts? It’s waterproof and dustproof, so you can bring it literally anywhere!

Available online; see a list of Sony retailers.

Anker Soundcore Mini 3 Pro (P2,495)

The Anker Soundcore Mini is a wonderful addition to any of your summer adventures. For one thing, like all the other wireless speakers on this list, it’s compact enough to fit even the tightest corners of your backpack, but it doesn’t sacrifice sound quality. In fact, the Anker Soundcore Mini comes complete with access to the Soundcore App, letting you customize your sound however you like. It’s also waterproof and has an impressive 15 hours of playtime when fully charged, so you don’t need to constantly keep it charging throughout the day.

Available online.

Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker Mini (P699)

Xiaomi’s Mi Bluetooth Speaker Mini might only be small enough to fit the inside of your palm, but it delivers rich tones that defy its size. The design is super sleek, simple, and unassuming, so you won’t have to worry about any bells and whistles you might not really need. The best part? It’s one of the most affordable devices on this list.

Available on Lazada.

Philips Wireless Rechargeable Bluetooth Speaker (P2,490)

Here’s a wireless Bluetooth speaker from Philips you’ll want to add to your wish list. Featuring all-day battery life and a water-resistant level that's up to a meter in depth, you’ll be able to take this party-sized package out to any of your summer destinations this year. It also has a discreet and solid build with a powerful sound to boot, so you can be sure this palm-sized speaker will last a long time.

Available on Lazada.

Miniso A109 Metal Low Bass Wireless Speaker (P599)

Want another option that won’t break the bank? Good news: Miniso also carries portable speakers that’ll fit your palm. The A109 Metal Low Bass delivers exactly on what its name suggests: a low bass that’s perfect for the music lover who wants to feel their tunes pulsing around them. 

See a list of Miniso stores.

realme Cobble Bluetooth Speaker (P1,590)

The Cobble Bluetooth Speaker from realme is a petite, stone-shaped device that lets you bring a party anywhere. It has a 5W dynamic bass-boost driver so you can get powerful sounds in any setting. Plus, if you want to get more out of the speaker, you can easily switch between three different equalizer presets—Bass, Dynamic, and Bright—using the realme Link app.

Available on Lazada.

iFrogz Coda Portable Wireless Speaker (P990)

The iFrogz Coda Portable Wireless Speaker is a fantastic value-for-money device since you get everything you might be looking for in a straightforward, palm-sized pack—and it's under P1,000. It comes with single-button controls and no frills. Plus, it can support up to four hours of playtime on average. The 40mm drivers also give this tiny package the power to create some room-filling sounds, and it also has microphone capabilities in case you ever need to take a call while your phone’s connected to the speaker.

Available on Digital Walker's website.

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen (P20,500)

The Beosound A1 from Bang & Olufsen is easily the priciest on this list, but it’s for good reason. This petite speaker comes tightly packed with some impressive features like a best-in-class 18-hour battery life (up to a whopping 43 hours on low volume!), peak power of 2x140 watts, and an aptXTM adaptive codec to improve sound performance, so you get topnotch audio quality. The Beosound also comes fully equipped with omnidirectional microphones and Alexa-compatibility if you’re ever in need of a voice assistant. 

Available online.

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(SPOT.ph) With the lifting of most restrictions as well as the rush of excitement to travel again, people are now heading out of town and hitting the beach. There are the most popular ones like the White Beach on Boracay Island, Lio Beach in El Nido, and Sabangan Beach in Puerto Galera.  But if you're looking for a more private space, you can book an Airbnb in a small coastal town called Villa Ilaya in Atimonan, Quezon. Rates for this property start at P18,000.

You can book the entire place, which can fit up to 16 people in its 11 bedrooms with either two beds or two mattresses each. There are no other resorts nearby so guests are guaranteed some peace and quiet if they want to lounge around the beach, take a nap in one of the hammocks under the coconut trees, or take a dip in the resort's swimming pool. There's also a mini-pier where you can catch some crabs, boats that are available for guests, and stand-up paddleboards that you can use.

As of writing, roads leading to the property are still under construction, so guests are transported to the Airbnb through a 15-minute boat ride.

Also read:
10 Private Villas You Can Book in Laguna
10 Places to Stay in Batangas for Every Budget

Fuel your wanderlust with more photos of this beach Airbnb:

This beachfront Airbnb is in Villa Ilaya, Atimonan, Quezon. Rates start at P18,000. For more information, visit Airbnb's website.

(SPOT.ph) Sony Pictures’ Morbius is currently out in cinemas and introduces the wider audience to Morbius, the Living Vampire, a classic Spider-Man foe from Marvel Comics. The relatively standalone origin story hints at wider connections to Tom Hardy’s Venom and the rest of the Spider-Verse—and since it's in the headline, note that there will be major spoilers ahead. The movie explicitly presents Morbius encountering Michael Keaton’s Vulture from the Marvel Cinematic Universe in a post-credits scene.

Movie audiences want to know what’s coming up for the Spider-Verse, especially after Spider-Man: No Way Home and the film's introduction of the live-action multiverse. Will Andrew Garfield have a third Spider-Man film? What’s Vulture doing in Morbius? We answer these below as we lay out Sony Pictures’ slate of Marvel movies.

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Part One)

Immediately, what to look forward to next is Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Part One) which drops on October 7. A sequel to the highly acclaimed animated film, Across the Spider-Verse reunites us with Miles Morales and Gwen Stacy, as they venture through different universes and dimensions, while encountering more Spider-people such as Spider-Man 2099 (played by Oscar Isaac) and Spider-Woman (played by Issa Rae).

The film is not likely to crossover with the likes of Tom Holland’s Spider-Man or Jared Leto’s Michael Morbius, but given that the first film was what introduced the concept of the Spider-Verse to film audiences, this sequel will likely push the boundaries of what we think is possible within Spider-Man multiverse.

Kraven the Hunter

The next live-action film set within the same universe as Venom and Morbius will be Kraven the Hunter, dropping on January 13, 2023. Aaron Taylor-Johnson will be portraying the titular character, who is one of Spider-Man’s most recognizable villains from the comics. Kraven is particulary infamous for hunting down the wall-crawler in the storyline "Kraven's Last Hunt" from 1987.

It will be interesting to see how the film plays out without Kraven hunting down Spider-Man. Place your bets on whether or not he will set out to hunt the alien Venom or Morbius the Living Vampire, eventually leading to them forming the Sinister Six together.

Madame Web

While no release date is set, our last film confirmed to be in production is Madame Web. Dakota Johnson (Fifty Shades of Grey) portrays the relatively obscure Marvel character, while Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria) has also been cast. Not much else is known about the film, but given that in the comics, Madame Web’s psychic powers partly emanate from the Web of Life and Destiny—a multiversal construct that connects and gives power to all Spider-People across different universes—there’s a high probability that we'll see the events of the film affect all Spider-characters ranging from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the Venom-verse, and the animated universes.

Spider-Man: Freshman Year

The animated series Spider-Man: Freshman Year will have to keep fans tempered as they eagerly await Tom Holland’s fourth Spider-Man film. The Disney+ series will be a prequel to Captain America: Civil War, where Tom Holland first appeared as the MCU’s wall-crawler, and will pay homage to the classic Spider-Man comics as it explores Peter’s first year in high school and early days as the friendly, neighborhood Spider-Man.

Possible Sinister Six Movie

Sony Pictures has been wanting to produce a team-up film of villains for nearly a decade now. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 teased a Sinister Six roster partially featuring Green Goblin, Doctor Octopus, Rhino, and Vulture as four of the six members, but after the Spider-Man series was rebooted into the MCU, Sony set their sights on the successful Venom series being the catalyst of their Sinister Six plans.

After the events of Morbius, the Sinister Six team shaping up within the Venom-verse appears to consist of Tom Hardy’s Venom, Jared Leto’s Morbius, and Michael Keaton’s Vulture. With Kraven the Hunter also confirmed to be set within the same universe, that leaves only two more villains to be introduced before a team-up film is likely to occur.

Fans theorize that a Spider-Man could exist within the Venom-verse, and that it could be Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Man in particular. Recall that specific universe's generally darker tone, which managed to smoothly blend in lighter moments of slapstick comedy. Fans would also like to see Garfield’s Spider-Man fight Hardy’s Venom, due to the remark Garfield’s Peter made in Spider-Man: No Way Home that he was the only Spider-Man between the three who had not fought an alien.

Morbius is now showing in cinemas. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Part One) comes out on October 7th, 2022, with Part Two expected to arrive in 2023. Kraven the Hunter drops in cinemas on January 13, 2023.

(SPOT.ph) There are many reasons to buy a drawstring bag: They’re super practical, very lightweight, can be worn with practically anything, and they’re becoming more and more stylish. Drawstring bags have that chill, laid-back vibe because of their simple, hassle-free design—just tighten up the drawcords to close and loosen them to open. But that’s not to say that the styles you can get them in are limited. These days, you can find drawstring bags that can be worn in a variety of ways. Plus, with the summer season waving at us, the practicality of drawstring bags is exactly what you need for a hassle-free experience—they’re great for walks, workouts, beach trips, and more!

If you’re ready to go hands-free, check out these 10 stylish drawstring bags for summer:

U Drawstring Shoulder Bag (P1,490) from Uniqlo

In case you didn’t know, Uniqlo has drawstring bags that come in a stylish yet functional design that’s perfect for everyday wear. The way the top part folds over the rest of the bag gives it a nice laid-back vibe and a slight slow-living feel. The bag comes in three neutral colors: Green, Beige, and Black.

Available online and at Uniqlo stores nationwide.

Wrap Drawstring Pocketable Bag (P695) MUJI

Toss this pocketable drawstring bag from MUJI in your purse the next time you go for a grocery run. It’s spacious enough to carry a basketful of items, but our favorite thing about it is that it’s chic enough to go with any outfit! Its slim straps give the bag a touch of sophistication.

Available online; see a list of MUJI stores.

Drawstring Backpack (P1,900) from Adidas

This pretty pink backpack from Adidas got even daintier with its cute drawstring opening. The bag features shiny satin fabric that elevates a sporty look. Fun fact: This adorable bag is partly made from recycled materials generated from production waste, great if you’ve been looking for sustainable items to add to your wardrobe.

Available online; see a list of Adidas stores.

Undeniable Sackpack 2.0 (P1,395) from Under Armour

If you hate dealing with zippers on backpacks, this sackpack from Under Armour is perfect for you. This bag gives you easy, hassle-free access to your things, which makes it a great bag for gym-goers and people who are always on the move. It even has a pocket for your favorite tumbler so you can stay hydrated while you’re out and about! 

Available online; see a list of Under Armour stores.

Heritage Gym Sack (P945) from Nike

Looking for a no-nonsense bag that has ample storage for your everyday essentials? Nike’s Heritage Gym Sack is right up your alley. This lightweight drawstring bag comes in a soft blue hue that’ll add a splash of color to your workout looks! It’s great for when you’re going for a nice walk outside or for running quick errands. The bag features zipper pockets on the sides to help you store small items like your phone, keys, and cards.

Available on Lazada.

Hinabol Drawstring Bags (P495) from Frankie & Friends

You can effortlessly add some local flair to your look with these drawstring bags from Frankie & Friends. The bags feature beautiful one-of-a-kind woven Hinabol fabric handmade by the Higaonon Tribe of Bukidnon. These drawstring bags are spacious enough for everyday use and are a great way to promote and support local.

Available online.

Training Essentials Gym Sack (P695) from Reebok

Gone are the days when you had to lug around a huge and bulky gym bag for an hour-long gym session. All you really need is a durable drawstring bag like this gym sack from Reebok. It can carry your necessities like a towel, a change of clothes, and other essentials like hand sanitizers and a water bottle. It comes in two colors: White and Canyon Coral.

Available on Shop SM.

Phase Gym Bag No. 2 (P500) from Puma

Here’s another no-nonsense drawstring bag to add to your rotation: Puma’s Phase Gym Bag No. 2 comes in a simple black design with Puma’s branding emblazoned along the bottom of the bag, giving it a sporty look. It’ll pair well with your athleisure looks!

Available on Lazada.

League Bench Bag (P898) from Vans

We don’t know about you, but if you ask us, punk is definitely not dead. In fact, this Vans drawstring bag is the perfect accessory for your skater-chic looks. Apart from its cool aesthetic, this lightweight drawstring bag has ample space for your everyday things and lets you go hands-free for a relaxed day out.

Available online.

Bozer Cross Body Bag (P2,190) from The North Face

If you’re looking for a bag that you can do a lot of looks with, The North Face’s Bozer Cross Body Bag can be worn in a variety of ways. It’s small enough to be worn hanging around your neck! You can also wear it around your waist and over your shoulder—the possibilities are endless with this cute drawstring bag. It also features a stash pocket that you can use to store your keys and cards for easy access. Inside, it has Ripstop pockets that let you secure your valuables. Plus, it’s water-repellent—no need to worry about your stuff getting wet!

Available online; see a list of The North Face stores.

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(SPOT.ph) Isabela de Basilan, or more formally Isabela City, is like the proverbial box of chocolates come to life: you’re definitely in for a most pleasant series of surprises. While geographically removed from the rest of the Zamboanga Peninsula and actually located on Basilan Island, this city in Basilan is still administratively part of Region IX. Not to be mistaken with the province of Isabela in Cagayan Valley in the north, it is located in the Philippines’ southern regions—an area often misunderstood, sometimes even feared. There’s little wonder then why the area is among the least visited in the country despite its natural beauty and remarkable cultural diversity.

The city also boasts a unique culinary tradition that highlights Sama and Tausug cuisines. The gastronomic scene is so unique that the Department of Tourism has included Isabela de Basilan in its "Mangan Ne, Come Ta, Kaon Ta Food Crawl Circuit." This culinary circuit aims to feature the diverse cuisines of the Zamboanga Peninsula and celebrate inclusivity and cultural exchange through food. 

For those of you looking to explore a more off-the-beaten-path and be rewarded with an enriching experience, you may want to include Isabela de Basilan on your must-visit list. 

Also read:
10 Exciting Things to Do in Zamboanga City
10 Exciting Things to Do in Camiguin

Here are recommended activities for you to get the most out of your visit to Isabela de Basilan:

Bask in the sun at Malamawi Beach Resort 

Considered one of Basilan’s top destinations, Malamawi Beach Resort takes pride in its stretch of white-sand beach and aquamarine waters. The 11-hectare property is mostly developed with accommodations, a restaurant, and water activities from jet skiing to scuba diving.

Just outside the resort is a trail to one of Malamawi’s highest points that offer scenic views of the Basilan Strait and its smattering of islets. The surrounding mountain is a birdwatcher’s paradise with sightings of hornbills, bulbuls, hawks, and other species that draw bird lovers from other parts of the world. 

Sample Tausug and Sulu cuisine at Marang-Marang Floating Cottages 

One of the tourism initiatives of the local government unit of Isabela de Basilan is Marang-Marang Floating Cottages. The twin cottages are situated within a protected area of mangroves, about a 20-minute boat ride from the main transportation hub of Port Isabela. 

The highlight of every visit to the cottages is the Sama and Tausug feast prepared by a local association of Sama Banguingui women. The Sama Banguigui is an indigenous group known to reside mostly in coastal areas. 

The gastronomic spread consists mainly of freshly caught fish and seafood, sweets, and fruits cooked in the Sama and Tausug way. These two culinary traditions are distinct in that they are influenced by neighboring Southeast Asian countries and the different ethnolinguistic groups across the Sulu Archipelago. 

Cruise along the tranquil mangroves of Marang-Marang 

After having your fill of Sama and Tausug food, you can hop back on your outrigger boat and glide across the peaceful mangroves of Marang-Marang. The cruise gives one an idea of how the locals go about their daily lives as some traditional houses on stilts are built in the area. 

More than a taste of authentic Sama and Tausug cuisine and a cruise amid mangroves, a visit to Marang-Marang helps augment the livelihood of the local Sama Banguigui community who mostly rely on the bounty of the sea for their everyday needs. 

Say a little prayer at Santa Isabel Cathedral 

First built in 1850 by Augustinian Recollects, Santa Isabel Cathedral has weathered a fire, two earthquakes, and a bombing. To this day, it remains one of the centers of Christianity in Basilan. 

The cathedral is famous for the immense mosaic at the main altar that depicts Jesus Christ and his disciples sans Judas Iscariot. Every stone used in the mosaic was sourced from Spain as well as the pure gold used in Jesus’ halo. 

The church’s dalle de varre (French for “slab of glass”) on its eastern façade is also quite remarkable. The vibrant stained glass is one of only a few of such kind in the country. 

Visit GAMABA Awardee Uwang Ahadas in Lamitan 

About an hour away from Isabela de Basilan is the city of Lamitan, the de jure capital of Basilan. The province is home to the Yakan, an indigenous group of people considered one of the finest weavers in the whole of Southeast Asia. The Yakans are known for their creativity; it’s no surprise then that Lamitan has the distinction of having two Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) awardees—folk musician Uwang Ahadas and master weaver Ambalang Ausalin. 

Visitors going on a day trip to Lamitan can visit Ahadas in Barangay Buahan and get to know how the 76-year-old native has passed on his knowledge to a younger breed of musicians despite being almost completely blind. He is recognized as a GAMABA awardee for his exceptional skill in playing several Yakan musical instruments and ensuring that his people’s musical tradition lives on. 

Pay tribute to Yakan Master Weaver Ambalang Ausalin 

After visiting Uwang Ahadas, travelers may proceed to nearby Parangbasak where Yakan master weaver Ambalang Ausalin, who passed away in February 2022, used to live. Ausalin was bestowed the GAMABA award for her unparalleled skill and artistry in Yakan weaving and for making sure that the culture of weaving continues to thrive. 

Her residence doubles as a weaving center where guests can watch Yakan weavers who are busy working at the loom. Visitors can also purchase vibrant and intricate weaves from table runners to placemats, scarves to bags. Every purchase helps in ensuring the livelihood of the weavers and the survival of their craft. 

Take a refreshing dip at Bulingan Falls 

What this waterfall lacks in height it makes up for in its unique beauty. Bulingan Falls is known for its rock formations that are jutting out at different angles giving the illusion of a pipe organ. The cascading water flows through moss-covered stones into a natural pool where visitors can spend the entire day relaxing. Guests with energy to spare can trek upstream and see the falls from above. 

Bulingan Falls is also located in Lamitan, which is not administratively part of Region IX-Zamboanga Peninsula and is about an hour away from Isabela de Basilan. 

Hop on a sunset cruise across Isabela Channel

Most visitors to Isabela de Basilan pass through Port Isabela upon arrival. They are greeted with a rather tiny yet bustling port with an almost steady stream of people and a busy waterway with outriggers zipping to and fro, especially before dusk. 

The area is an excellent spot to watch the sun dip on the horizon so it’s a good idea to get on one of the boats and give the city’s Sakayan Sunset Cruise across Isabela Channel a go. More than a breathtaking sunset, the cruise gives you a look into the daily commuting lives of locals who cross the channel to go to work and back home every day. 

Feast on street food along the boulevard 

If all the posing and picture taking during the sunset cruise made you hungry, then cap the day off by going on a food crawl along James Strong Boulevard. Enjoy an array of street food and traditional fares in any of the around 40 hawkers lining the narrow boulevard.  

The cruise and the food stalls form part of the LGUs efforts in helping the local economy recover from the pandemic through strengthened tourism initiatives.  

Mingle with the locals 

Being a convergence point of various cultures means that no trip to Isabela de Basilan is complete without getting to know the locals. Hang out at James Strong Boulevard and talk to the boatmen or have a quick chat with the Yakan weavers at the Sumagdang Culture Hub. 

These little interactions can afford visitors a more intimate look into one of the most culturally rich cities in the country—and maybe, just maybe, give them a deeper insight into and appreciation for a frequently misunderstood place that has so many beautiful things to offer. 

How to Get There 

Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and Philippine Airlines all fly direct from Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila to Zamboanga International Airport in Zamboanga City. Alternatively, you can travel by land and water (2GO Travel) from Manila to Zamboanga for 47 hours. 

From Zamboanga International Airport, you may take a jeepney bound for Canelar and head to Zamboanga City Port. Then, you may hop on a fast craft or ferry boat to Isabela or Lamitan. 

Travelers are advised to coordinate with the City Tourism Office for a more seamless trip. 

(SPOT.ph) For the first time in two years, leisure travel is once again at an all-time high during the Philippines' driest season. People are flocking to Boracay, which is often top of mind for its powdery white sand and beach party vibe. If you're looking to book a room, Coast Boracay's newest campaign "Let The Fun Shine" features discounted room rates for up to 25% off for stays until September.

Also read:
The Most Scenic Places in Boracay for a Picture-Perfect Sunset
10 Places to Stay in Boracay for Every Budget
10 IG-Worthy Food Spots in Boracay Not to Miss on Your Next Visit

Rates at this Boracay Resort

Rates start at P6,000++ for a Deluxe Room, P7,000++ for a Premier Room, P11,500 for a One-Bedroom Suite, and P12,500 for a Loft Suite. These prices come with daily breakfast for two and land and boat transfers to and from Caticlan Airport.

Coast's claim-to-fame is its whimsical interiors with accents of white and blue, which complement the laid-back vibe of the resort. It's all too tempting to just plop down on the comfortable bed and binge-watch your favorite Netflix series through the room's smart TV. But before you waste your day indoors, the floor-to-ceiling glass windows are there to give you a glimpse of what you'd be missing: their swimming pools. A three-foot dipping pool with a pool bar, a two-foot kiddie pool, and a four-foot lap pool. The couches also make perfect spots for profile photos. The resort's other facilities include a gym (because you don't want to miss a workout!) and a massage room (for full-on relaxation).

Coast Boracay is in Station 2, Barangay Balabag, Malay, Aklan. Promo rates start at P6,000. For more information, visit Coast Boracay's website.

Australia is a favorite destination among OFWs, and over 300,000 Filipinos call it home. With its strong Filipino community, it's still a surprise that the land Down Under doesn't have a Jollibee branch. But that might soon change.

Jollibee Opening New Store Location in Australia

After years of hopeful speculation, Filipinos in Australia might finally get to taste Jollibee without having to fly back to the Philippines. Philtimes.com.au, Australia's Filipino newspaper, reports that Jollibee is in the process of constructing its first Australian store in Campbelltown, a suburb just outside of Sydney in New South Wales. Campbelltown boasts a bustling Filipino-Australian community, with Filipinos comprising the third-largest population of residents born outside of Australia.

Jollibee's building proposal was first submitted to Campbelltown City Council in March 2021, and as of April 2022, its construction certificate is still pending. It might take a few more months before the first Jollibee is opened, but the latest report from Philtimes.com.au confirms it's in the pipeline. 

"We plan to open in Australia, but this is still in the early planning stage subject to several conditions," stated Jollibee Group when asked by Esquire for a comment. 

It's no secret that Jollibee has been aggressively expanding abroad as it aims to fulfill its mission to become one of the top five restaurant companies in the world. It recently opened its first two branches in Scotland and its first branch in Vancouver, Canada. There are even plans to open Jollibee branches in two iconic New York City locations: Grand Central Terminal and 1500 Broadway. The food giant is committed to expanding its European and North American presence. 

There are over 1,500 Jollibee stores in 17 countries, and over 5,900 Jollibee Food Corporation stores in 34 countries. Jollibee Food Corp. is made up of brands such as Jollibee, Chowking, Red Ribbon, The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, PHO24, and more. 

As it stands, Jollibee is currently considered the world's 13th largest fast-food chain, ranking higher than Dairy Queen, Tim Hortons, and Papa John's Pizza. 

(SPOT.ph) Back in the day, the break meant connecting your spiritual self with the Lord and let's face it, finding ways to keep occupied lest you die of boredom. Though perhaps by now, everyone agrees that the Holy Week break is that time of the year when everyone shuts down for a much-needed break. While most make plans as early as possible, there are those that tend to leave things at the last minute, case in point: you who might be reading this article.

Long weekend trips tend to take place outside of the Metro and while we do love ourselves a bit of sun and surf, most if not all the good spots are already fully booked in advance. Luckily, your Holy Week plans don’t have to take a pause as you can have your staycation and much-needed rest in Metro Manila.

Also read: Easter in the City: Where to Stay in the Metro for Holy Week 2022

Looking for an Airbnb in Manila? Check out this list for your last-minute staycation booking:

Luxurious & Spacious Suite

Malate, Manila City
www.airbnb.com/rooms/38329056
Rates start at P2,800

Located in Malate, this Airbnb comes with a bathtub, full kitchen, dining room, and living room. There's Netflix and super-fast Internet—perfect for your plan to binge-watch the latest shows. Just above Casino Filipino, it's an ideal spot if you want to play tourist in the City of Manila when there’s practically no one around. 

Japanese Animé House

Manila City
www.airbnb.com/rooms/39591251
Rates start at P1,450

If you’re missing Japan a little too much, then this Japanese Animé House is perfect for you. Live out your dream with the tatami floor carpet and cushions as you savor your take-out sushi or unlimited ramen. Should you be in the mood to explore the city, most of Old Manila’s iconic locations are within a 20-minute drive from the address. But if you’re aiming for a quick swim to beat the heat, then the swimming pool on the eighth floor is available for use daily with a P150 per head fee.

Container Home

Plainview, Mandaluyong City
www.airbnb.com/rooms/593967825911982148
Rates start at P800

This container home in Mandaluyong City is the perfect example of the statement "Looks can be deceiving." Located near City Hall, it offers an amazing view at night, an outdoor deck with a transparent dome, and a free breakfast of bread, jam, and coffee.

Casa Cuenco

Quezon City
www.airbnb.com/rooms/28675042
Rates start at P9,267

This classic '80s home might just be your new home away from home. Located near the famed food district that is Banawe, Casa Cuenco is a two-storey home that has four bedrooms—just what you need for a family staycation. Plus, you don't have to worry about waiting in line for the toilet as each bedroom has its own bathroom. It is also worth noting that guests are encouraged to bring their own towels, plates, cups, and cutlery as part of their safety protocols.

Giam Room

Highway Hills, Mandaluyong City
www.airbnb.com/rooms/44240570
Rates start at P1,098

Experience the island life aesthetic right in the middle of the Metro. This 18-square-meter studio space is perfect for couples that decide to stay in Manila at the last minute. It comes with a kitchenette, dining area, toiletries, as well as free use of Netflix. The rental also comes with a one-time breakfast which consists of bread, spreads, eggs, instant coffee, and two bottles of drinking water.

Restored Heritage Home

Poblacion, Makati City
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/32737138
Rates start at P11,467

If case you missed your chance to live out your Bridgerton dream, then perhaps this Restored Heritage Home will do the trick. Located in Poblacion, this seven-bedroom property was built in 1933 and was restored in 2015 by the owners. The space is well-ventilated and comes with a living room, kitchen nook, outdoor patio, and a small roof deck. And if you're worried about leaving your pets at home, you don't have to worry as this property is pet-friendly. Do take note that this is limited to two pets and must be small breeds. 

Exclusive Luxury Modern Home

Las Piñas City
www.airbnb.com/rooms/52445751
Rates start at P5,500

Found inside a secure, gated village, this two-bedroom property can be rented by groups who want to meet up for the weekend. Enjoy a bottle of ice-cold beer and a rack of ribs as you relax in the enclosed backyard, all without leaving Metro Manila. 

Valeo Tiny House

Quezon City
www.airbnb.com/rooms/52294833
Rates start at P7,815

This Airbnb property once went viral for its tiny-home aesthetic. Here's your chance to have it to yourself, at least for a weekend. The Old Balara property is now available for guests to stay in for short periods of time. With roughly a 100 square meter space of outdoor area and a small roof deck, you can't help but wish that your staycation becomes permanent as this is as relaxing as it can get without leaving town.

The Balilo Guesthouse

Caloocan City
www.airbnb.com/rooms/556100608602201189
Rates start at P15,543

There's something about spaces enclosed in glass that screams #aesthetic and The Balilo Guesthouse is no exemption. Tucked away in Caloocan City, the place features two loft-style glass cabins as well as a private pool that can easily make a statement on your Instagram feed. Cooking is not allowed inside the rooms but guests can use the microwave and air-fryer in the kitchen. 

Danupra Garden Deck

Veterans Village, Quezon City
www.airbnb.com/rooms/52172504
Rates start at P17,714

Those looking to spend some quality de-stressing need to look no further than Quezon City. With a maximum of 16 guests, this place has three bedrooms, a garden deck with an outdoor pool, a massage chair, as well as gym equipment located in the loft area of the property. 

PayMaya said on April 6 that their users can now buy and sell cryptocurrencies using the mobile app as they expand their digital finance services.

PayMaya users who wish to trade cryptocurrency tokens just need to have an upgraded account without extra cash in and cash out fees.

"We're excited to offer this new feature to our users - especially as more Filipinos become increasingly interested in cryptocurrency," said PayMaya Philippines president Shailesh Baidwan said in a statement.

PayMaya said that they developed the feature under their Invest platform together with Coinbase Institutional, the largest publicly traded crypto company globally.

Crypto coins and tokens that can be traded in PayMaya so far are Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Cardano (ADA), Chainlink (LINK), Uniswap (UNI), Solana (SOL), Quant (QNT), Polkadot (DOT), Polygon (MATIC), and Tether (USDT).

Also read:
Cracking the Code to Cryptocurrency: How to Start With Just a Few Hundreds
The Concise, Non-Boring Glossary for Cryptocurrency Newbies

Here's how to use the new PayMaya cryptocurrency feature:

How to buy crypto through PayMaya:

1. Tap "Crypto" on the PayMaya homepage.
2. Tap "Buy" on the bottom of the screen, then select the desired cryptocurrency.
3. Input the desired Philippine Peso amount you want to spend. You will see the equivalent cryptocurrency value based on an estimated market price. Tap"Next" on the upper right hand of the screen.
4. A "Confirm Purchase" tab will pop up. On this tab, you will see the amount in PHP you will be spending and the amount of cryptocurrency you will be receiving through this transaction. Once you have checked the details, you may confirm your purchase and slide to buy.
5. Once you purchase your desired cryptocurrency, the amount will reflect on your app's Crypto page.

How to sell crypto through PayMaya:

1. Tap "Crypto" on the PayMaya homepage.
2. Tap "Sell" on the bottom of the screen, then select the desired cryptocurrency.
3. Select a percentage value to sell a part of your currently owned asset. You will see the equivalent PHP value based on an estimated market price. Then tap "Next" on the upper right hand of the screen.
4. A "Confirm Sale" tab will pop up. On this tab, you will see the amount of cryptocurrency you will be selling and the amount of PHP you will be receiving through this transaction. Once you have checked the details, you may confirm your purchase and slide to sell.
5. You will automatically receive your earnings on your PayMaya wallet. Simply go to your app's home screen and check the amount. 

(SPOT.ph) If you're the type of person who likes to play board games with family and friends—because not every Saturday night needs to be dedicated to tequila—then you've probably tried your fair share of classics like Battleship, Trivial Pursuit, Scrabble, and perhaps the most quintessential example, Monopoly. The multi-player, economics-themed game revolves around buying and trading properties and developing houses and hotels, all with the goal of driving other players into bankruptcy.

Since being published by Parker Brothers in 1935, Monopoly has been released in a number of themed variations, all with the same basic objective, but with design and elements on the board changed to fit the theme. There have been Monopoly boards inspired by the TV series like Friends, Game of Thrones, Stranger Things, and Spongebob Squarepants, film franchises like Star Wars and Lord of the Rings, and even video games like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda—and yup, the board game continues to get new iterations. One of the latest Monopoly releases to hit the market features none other than the famous Japanese cartoon Hello Kitty.

Also read:
10 Classic Board Games to Play on Your Phone If You Hate the Mess

Feast Your Eyes on the Hello Kitty and Friends Monopoly Board Game

This Sanrio-themed Monopoly board features a whimsical design decked out in vibrant colors and illustrations of Hello Kitty and her cute little friends including My Melody, Keroppi, Kuromi, the Little Twin Stars, Badtz-Maru, Tuxedo Sam, Cinnamoroll, and more. Not only do you see the characters printed onto the board itself, they also double as the game pieces instead of the usual racecar, top hat, thimble, and so on. Plus, in place of the usual properties on the board (Baltic Avenue, Mayfair, Park Lane, King’s Cross Station, and so on), you’ll find on-theme spots like Kuromi's Candy Shop, Little Twin Stars' Spa, Keroppi’s Mini Mart, Hello Kitty's Hotel, and more.

Along with the 28 title deed cards, you get 16 Adventure Cards and 16 Celebration Cards (in place of the Chance and Community Chest cards), two dice, 32 stars (instead of houses), 12 five-star certificates (in place of hotels) and Hello Kitty-themed money.

As of writing, the Hello Kitty and Friends Monopoly Board Game is not available locally, but we're crossing our fingers that we'll see the game on store shelves in the Philippines soon. For now, it's available on Sanrio's website and The Op Games' website for U.S. $39.99 (roughly P2,057).

For more information, log on to Sanrio's Facebook page.

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New K-drama fans might know Kim Sejeong as the feisty Do Ha-na from The Uncanny Counter or the animated Shin Ha-ri in Business Proposal, but before she catapulted to fame for her acting career, the 25-year-old first won over hearts as a K-pop idol.

In 2012, Sejeong tried to break into the industry by auditioning for the competition show K-pop Star. While she didn’t make it far, she would then become the talk of the nation four years later as a participant in the survival reality series Produce 101. According to the show’s mechanics, the final 11 contestants get to debut as an idol girl group after proving their worth in a series of challenges.

With her infectious cheerful personality, effortless dance skills, and soaring vocals, Sejeong swept the competition by ranking first or second each week against 100 other idol trainees. This feat eventually earned her the nickname “God Sejeong” as bestowed by the Korean public.

By the end of the program, Sejeong came in second place and finally debuted with her girl group I.O.I.. The group produced hits like Very Very Very and Downpour before having to disband a year later after their contract ended.

While in I.O.I., Sejeong also joined her company’s girl group Gugudan a year before she would make her official acting debut in School 2017. Now that’s a girl who can definitely do it all!

Sejeong fully embarked on a solo career in both acting and music when Gugudan parted ways in 2020. By then, the actress had cemented herself as a rising leading lady after top billing School 2017, I Wanna Hear Your Song, and landing a main role in the now record-breaking OCN drama The Uncanny Counter.

Thanks to her idol background, apart from appearing on screen, Sejeong is also occasionally asked to sing OSTs for K-dramas. This includes recording tracks for the shows she’s starred in like Meet Again in The Uncanny Counter and the acoustic version of Melomance’s Love Maybe for Business Proposal.

She’s also notably participated in the soundtracks of a number of hit K-dramas like Legend of the Blue Sea, Mr. Sunshine, Record of Youth, and Crash Landing on You. Yep, you definitely heard her sweet, melancholic voice in the background while watching Captain Ri and Yoon Se-ri fall in love. Her OST for CLOY titled All of My Days is currently her most streamed track on Spotify with over 16 million plays on the platform.

Take a listen to Sejeong's song below:

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This story originally appeared on Preview.ph. Minor edits have been made by the SPOT.ph editors.

(SPOT.ph) Raise your hand if you've skipped doing your skincare routine on more than one occasion during this pandemic. Some may express horror over your lack of self care, but we totally get it. Once in a while, there are just those days when you're too busy, too stressed, or too exhausted to trudge to the bathroom and do your daily routine—an especially difficult undertaking for those who have a bajillion products on their bathroom shelf waiting to be slathered on each night. But while K-Beauty has led us to believe that 10-step regimens are a must, did you know you don't actually need a ton of products and beauty tools on your shelf? In fact, if you ask Filipino cosmetics label The Unbranded Skincare, you can get by with as little as three.

Also read:
Beauty Basics: How to Read the Ingredients List on Your Skincare Products

Meet The Unbranded Skincare, a Beauty Brand That's All About Keeping Your Routine Simple

Like many a brand born during a pandemic, The Unbranded Skincare was conceived as a response to a sudden realization from its creators. "Being in a pandemic, we realized we got busier," says co-founder Mells Limcaoco, noting that in the past two years, folks just didn't have the time (or perhaps the energy) to complete every step in a 10-product routine. In place of those high maintenance routines, The Unbranded Skincare champions a beauty philosophy known as "skinimalism," which embraces a less-is-more approach. While most brands tend to have a bevy of products to cater to various skin concerns, The Unbranded only has three in its roster.

Now, keep in mind that just as 10-step routines aren't mandated by law, neither is a minimalist, three-step beauty regimen. But what The Unbranded encourages is knowing what exactly the essentials are before stocking up on every single skincare product you see in a notoriously oversaturated market. In their case, that means just a cleanser, a moisturizer, and a suncreen.

Here's everything you can get from their three-step product line:

The Unbranded Cleansing Wash (P575)

Cleansing—the first step in any skincare routine—not only removes makeup and dirt buildup on your face, but also preps the skin for all the nutrients and benefits that your toners, serums, and exfoliants will provide. The Unbranded's take on the product is made with squalane, an ingredient known to help restore lipidic barriers on the skin, helping keep it clean, refreshed, and moisturized.

The Unbranded Overnight Cream (P975)

Packed with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid (for boosting hydration), centella asiatica (which can improve blood circulation and sooth irritation), and vitamin B3 (a.k.a. the fan-favorite niacinamide), The Unbranded's Overnight Cream has an ultra-moisturizing formula that promises gentle skin repair.

The Unbranded Day Shield (P850)

No matter your skin type, sunscreen is an essential part of any beauty routine, minimalist or otherwise. The Unbranded Day Shield is a broad spectrum SPF that protects your complexion against the sun's harmful UV rays and even claims to shield your skn from pollution and other breakout-causing irritants.

The Unbranded Skincare is available on their website, Beauty Bar's website, Seek the Uniq's website, Lazada, and at Beauty Bar branches.

For more information, log on to The Unbranded Skincare's Facebook page.

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(SPOT.ph) Although Batangas is known for beaches, coffee, and great produce, the once-sleepy town is only now truly shaping up to be a quiet getaway—the possibilities are virtually endless for this historic area. Garden Bistro is the product of exactly that sort of lens, thanks to chef and restaurateur Grant Zuñiga, his mother, and her plants.

Also read: 10 Must-Visit Cafés in Manila Where You Can Chill Outdoors

Drop by this zen al-fresco restaurant on your next trip to Batangas:

No, really. “It started out with my mom’s plants,” says Zuñiga, gesturing to the absolute forest in the restaurant. We say “in,” but what we mean is, “under its roof”—the bistro manages to combine the best of both al fresco dining and what can only be described as a plant reserve in miniature. “She really has a green thumb, like, I’ve basically killed plants that she’s brought back to life. And she’s so enterprising that if you look,” he points to a pot that houses a thriving Monstera, “there are price tags. Because people always want to buy them.”

But more than the quintessential plantita’s dream come true—and even more than the pet grooming service right next door (so you can watch dogs get brushed!)—there is, of course, the food. There’s no particular theme other than what Zuñiga knows he likes to eat, and we can tell you today: We want whatever he’s having.

His training becomes evident in what other people might initially deem ordinary, such as the Bistro Buffalo Wings (P250). Taking the New York classic and making it more suitable to Filipino tastes—all while keeping it crisp yet juicy—means you could eat a plateful of the spicy-tangy-umami-sweet wings by yourself, if you’re nasty. No special amount of determination needed. Round it out with the Truffle Potato Wedges (P200), which give a softer sort of crunch, and a fluffiness within. They’ve got enough of an aromatic punch in both the potatoes and the aioli to take the wings’ heat down to a light simmer.

We’re already fans of the Spicy Beef Ribs (P300), whose profile probably falls somewhere between rendang, classic Filipino barbecue, and a particularly thick caldereta. We wish we could explain it better, but there’s something very hearty and Asian about this dish that’ll have you shoveling it into your mouth, regardless of who’s looking. You will not care. And you will care even less when you break your stride with the Crispy Calamari (P270).

Up for something more Italian-American? It’s the Chicken Parmigiana (P300) for you, then. There are few things more comforting than food of the sort that's intensely crunchy, salty, and obviously fried, then dunked and/or smothered in sauce. Throw in some melted cheese, because why not? One might think that this one could read homemade—the very mean might say “pedestrian”—but sometimes, the smartest move is the most obvious one. This combination of easy flavors and textures is not a fallback; it’s a backbone.

The ever-dependable fallback—at least for the indecisive diner—is pasta. This Carbonara (P250), like many, isn’t for purists. But the Zuñigas aren’t purists, and neither should you be, especially seeing as you’re eating pasta in Batangas. All that to say, yes, it has cream and mushrooms, and no, we’re not bothered by it. Let’s put it this way: you can ask for adobo in Sweden, and you’re not going to get what you have at home, but you’ll probably still like it. And what’s not to like about bacon, cream, and spaghetti? Yep, that’s what we thought.

If all that wasn’t enough, there’s a secret dog park in the back. File your vacation leave and plan your route down to Batangas, ASAP. Garden Bistro, if nothing else, is a great first (and second, third, last) stop on your trip.

Photos by Majoy Siason

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(SPOT.ph) We all have our favorite pair of sneakers. Sure, there are the pairs that are known for their "classic" status (think the OG Stan Smiths or the all-white Air Force 1s) as well as those huge releases that seem to capture everyone’s attention (Yeezy 350s come to mind). But often, our real ride-or-die kicks are those that tend to leave an impression on us over time—through months or even years of wear, they prove just how comfortable, versatile, and stylish they can be. In the same way that our favorite foods are rarely the most popular, most expensive, or most extravagant—but rather the dishes that we always find ourselves coming back to—the sneakers closest to one’s heart are usually the most unsuspecting pairs. Often without us realizing, they become our most reliable companions—the kinds of lace-ups or slip-ons we know we can count on for any and all occasions. Thus, it’s no surprise that even the oldest, most worn-out sneakers in our personal collections can often be hard to let go of. 

With all that in mind, we, the SPOT.ph team, couldn’t help but wonder: What are our favorite sneakers, and why are they our favorites? What makes a pair of shoes stand out among all others, at least for a bunch of typical, 20- to 30-something Metro Manila natives? Below, we, a team of writers, editors, video producers, and social media managers, each sought to answer that question and figure out what exactly makes our most beloved sneakers so special to us. Keep in mind we set no limitations here—each member of the team was allowed to choose any style, any brand, any color, and so on, as long as they could explain why that one pair means so much to them.

In no particular order, these are the SPOT.ph team's picks for the best sneakers they own:

Mia, Associate Editor
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 Paraty in Navy

Retails for: P5,190

So, as you might be able to tell from the picture, this is my most loved pair of shoes. These Onitsuka Tiger sneaks—I think they're Mexico 66s but I can't recall or tell anymore—have taken me through a lot in life. From my college days to being a newbie in the workforce, through mall trips and outdoor treks, rainy days and Mondays, and all that, they've stood firmly by my side (or should I say, on my feet?).

What I love most about them is how comfy and efficient they are; you can easily slip them on and off, and the more I did it, the easier it got. Never mind that that may have messed with the pair’s appearance and structure. I mean, hey, both shoes are still holding up even after all these years, right? Wish I could say the same for my brain cells. Still, apart from the function, this pair definitely had form to them, too. They may look beat up now and it's high time to throw them out, but I'll probably keep them a few years more.

Available online; see a list of Onitsuka Tiger stores.

Christa, Section Editor for News, Arts, and Travel
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Floral Fusion in Himalayan Salt

Retails for: P3,190

I've been wearing Converse's signature "Chucks" since college (and by college, I mean the early 2000s) because of their no-nonsense look, especially with my usual pants-and-shirt combo. I used to have the classic high-cut pair in black and in dark blue with the All-Star patch, the low-top varieties, and other printed designs that came out through the years. But my current favorite is the Chuck Taylor All Star Floral Fusion, which is in a shade of muted pink with touches of floral prints—perfect even for nude-colored dresses. It's also from their All Star 70 series, which means it has thicker cushioning—something that many people complain about in the old models.

As of writing, the Chuck Taylor All Star Floral Fusion sneakers in Himalayan Salt are sold out online.

Trish, Section Editor for Eat + Drink
Asics Gel-Excite 6 Twist in Peach Petal/White

Retails for: Asics running shoes start at P4,590.

Cardio is a daily non-negotiable for me and in particular, I love doing the high-impact stuff (i.e., the kind that involves running, jumping, or basically bouncing off the ground) for about half an hour to an hour at a time. Given this, it’s imperative that I go for sneakers with good cushioning to absorb the shock, especially as I’ve experienced getting stress fractures multiple times in the past. Over the past few years (since 2018, I think!) I’ve been going with Asics' Gel-Excite line of sneakers as they feel uber-comfy and deliver that perfect sorta bouncy sensation. It almost feels like I’m bouncing on a trampoline as my feet land on and propel off the ground—be it our wooden floors at home, or the asphalt roads of the UP Academic Oval. I scored this Gel-Excite 6 pair off Zalora in 2020, as a backup to another pair of the exact same model, but in a different colorway. I didn’t get to use it until 2021 (when the other pair gave out for good), but since I did, it’s carried me through for a little over a year and to this day.

On one hand, the pair's still relatively clean considering I’ve been using it multiple times a day, every single day—probably because I’ve been working out only at home given the pandemic. But it’s definitely due to be replaced soon as there are already holes on the toe holes and the sole doesn’t feel as cushion-y anymore. As of writing, I’m literally just waiting for its replacement to arrive—its newer (and hopefully improved) sibling, the Asics Gel-Excite 8 (P4,690), also on Zalora!

As of writing, the Asics Gel-Excite 6 Twist sneakers in Peach Petal/White are no longer available on Asics Philippines' online channels.

Ashley, Section Editor for Shopping + Services
New Balance x STAUD 327 Sneakers

Retails for: P6,995

While this isn’t the reason I love these New Balance 327 sneakers—which were a part of their 2021 collaboration with STAUD—let me, first of all, say that I’ve never gotten so many compliments on a pair of shoes until I wore these. Even strangers on Instagram have told me how stylish they are and I can’t say I haven’t enjoyed the kind comments.

I’ve always been a no-frills sneaker kind of person—I’m not typically one for bulky silhouettes or bold colors, especially since I’m a pretty low-key dresser. However, these 327 sneakers really changed my mind about what kind of lace-ups I can pull off and how even non-minimalist shoes can fit my personal style. The pair features a mostly white-and-gray design with blue accents along the heel and on the N logo on the outer side. It’s finished off with a pretty hefty (but comfortable!) textured brown sole. When I first opened the shoe box, I had major heart eyes, which I wasn’t expecting. But while I wouldn’t call that moment love at first sight, I do think it was love at first wear. This is particularly because these kicks had zero break-in time—they fit well right away and didn’t cause chafing around my heel. And once I realized how good they looked with most of my usual tank-top-and-jeans ensembles, they quickly became my go-to. I’ve even purchased bags specifically to go with the sneakers because I love wearing them that much.

Now, nearly a year since I first got them, these sneakers are one of my most worn pairs and I almost always find myself reaching for them over other styles in my collection. I’ve already considered buying several other colorways and should this pair ever fall apart, I will likely repurchase without a second thought.

The New Balance x STAUD Collection is available at their store in R2, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati City.

Janelle, Video Content Producer
Superga 2750 Kids' Easylite Sneakers

Retails for: P2,250

This was the first pair of sneakers my boyfriend ever got me, which I absolutely loved. I adore the simplicity of the design—it is, after all, just a no-nonsense canvas sneaker. I also love how I can easily wear it with anything. It looks nice with pants, skirts, and dresses. In fact, I like it so much that I even bought another pair for myself when my first pair felt worn out. Plus, I got the second pair for just P500 online. They were on sale and I got the kids’ version in a size that fit me. Getting new Superga sneakers is probably going to be a yearly thing for me, although I'm thinking of switching to the Velcro version.

See a list of Superga stores.

Mig, Video Content Producer
Converse Chuck 70 Hi Vintage Canvas in Parchment/Garnet

Retails for: P4,390

I’ve been wearing Chuck Taylors since the day I realized I was old enough to style myself. I was a bit late compared to my peers, but that’s another story. Since then, I’ve gotten myself an array of high-cut styles for almost any occasion. I got an all-black pair for semi-formal events, maroon or blue iterations as my go-to's for everyday wear, and even special-edition versions for fun. Other than the style, the Chuck Taylor just felt the most comfortable and natural to me. As I’m a fan of personalized gear, I decided to buy a pair of off-white high-cut Converse as well as a fabric marker and spent a few weeks asking my friends to sign that pair before ever wearing it. At first, it was just a fun little project to have a one-of-a-kind pair of shoes that I can show off, but it ended up being a sentimental piece that I simply enjoy having in my collection. I use it on a few very special occasions, but otherwise, it hangs out in a special spot on my shoe rack.

Available on Lazada.

Marese, Social Media Strategist
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star in White Monochrome

Retails for: P3,190

I was always a sneakers type of person. Because of that, I have already tried out different kinds, but these All Star White Monochrome kicks will always be my favorite. They pair well with multiple styles depending on what I am in the mood to wear and just give off that sophisticated-but-effortless look that completes the whole ensemble. In addition, I can walk around for hours in these sneakers and never have to worry about my feet hurting. Overall, I will continue to recommend this style to those looking for sneakers that provide both comfort and style.

Available on Lazada.

Pat, Managing Editor
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 in Moon Rock/Vaporous Gray

Retails for: Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66 sneakers start at P5,990.

What I like about this pair is its comfort level. I can go for hours walking in them and my feet won’t hurt. Since they're mostly leather with just a tad bit of suede, they don't get dirty and can withstand the rainy season more compared to other styles—I hate it when my sneakers get wet because of the rain. Plus, the kicks have that purple-leaning gray-ish hue that makes them neutral, but at the same time, a statement pair.

As of writing, Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66 in Moon Rock/Vaporous Gray has been discontinued.

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