JOURNAL | Counting the Days: A Reflection on Life, Purpose, and the Unexpected

It’s funny how life throws us curveballs when we least expect them. We go through our routines—waking up, going to work, complaining about the mundane—and then, out of nowhere, something happens that shakes our sense of normalcy to its core. 

The other day, I got news that left me speechless. A friend of mine, not someone I’m particularly close to, was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He’s in his late twenties, young and full of potential, and yet here he is, facing a challenge that no one should have to confront at that age. I couldn’t wrap my head around it. How is it that I spend so much of my energy sulking over trivial matters when people like him are grappling with life-threatening illnesses? 

HEALTH | Understanding Uric Acid: Causes, Complications, and Treatment Options

Uric acid is a natural waste product that forms when the body breaks down purines, substances found in some foods and drinks. Under normal conditions, the kidneys filter uric acid from the blood, and it is expelled through urine. However, when the body produces too much uric acid or fails to eliminate it efficiently, uric acid levels rise in the blood, leading to potential health complications such as gout, kidney stones, and in severe cases, kidney failure. This article explores what uric acid is, the potential complications caused by elevated uric acid levels, and treatment options to manage these conditions effectively.

PINK NOTES | That Thing About Group Fun

In Metro Manila and other urban areas, it's common for discreet men to seek physical gratification through various activities. While satisfaction varies from person to person, group encounters have become a popular choice for many. However, these activities don’t just come with personal or emotional considerations—they also carry significant legal implications. From privacy issues to potential legal risks associated with public indecency or solicitation, participants must be aware of the laws that govern these encounters. This article will explore the legal landscape surrounding group activities, shedding light on potential legal consequences, privacy concerns, and the protections available to individuals involved.

Related article - How to Organize Group Fun

Illegal ba ang Group Fun sa Pinas?

To answer the burning question: Illegal ba ang consensual na group fun sa Pilipinas? Ang simple answer: hindi, basta may tamang kondisyon. Sa ngayon, walang specific na batas sa Pilipinas na nagbabawal sa consensual activities sa pagitan ng mga adults, kabilang na ang group fun, hangga’t ginagawa ito sa pribadong lugar at hindi lumalabag sa ibang batas.

Dahil walang direktang probisyon sa Revised Penal Code o iba pang batas na nagsasabing bawal ito, legal ang consensual seggs sa pagitan ng mga adults (whether straight o gay) basta’t hindi ito nagiging sanhi ng public disturbance, prostitution, exploitation, o anumang ilegal na gawain. Ika nga, "What happens in private, stays in private!"

PINK NOTES | Dibah?! Hindi Lahat Ng Bekis Pare-Pareho: A Deep Dive (Or Shallow Dip) Into the Spectrum of Being Gay in 2024

Henlo, ghorl, beshies! Gather around, because today we are spilling some piping hot tea hotter than that last BGC drunk-driving fiasco or the latest Congress drama. Have you ever noticed na parang sa gay world, para kang nasa isang never-ending fashion show? Werk! Serve! Sashay! Pero, hindi lahat ay pasok sa isang standard of beauty. Akala mo ba, lahat tayo ay kailangan maging parang Calvin Klein model? Sis, hindi ganon!

Let's start with the obvious: hindi lahat ng bekis ay macho at mukhang pornstar.Yet, we live in a world where media (old and new) pushes the idea that gays should either look like a buffed Adonis. Kaloka! Traditional media, even social media, ang peg, promotes this idea that "hyper-masculine" gays get all the attention, the drinks, and... well, everything, from the club to the bathhouse to even Grindr’s thirsty DMs. Naka-influence talaga ang mga corporations na ‘yan—trying to make sure we buy their overpriced skincare, fashion, and gym memberships. They be like, “Gurl, don’t even think of showing up without looking like Piolo Pascual in a swimsuit ad.”

Read up on a related article:
The Problem with Pogi ( 29 June 2020 )

But is it really all that? Kailangan ba talaga na magka-abs at muscles galore para sumaya bilang bakla? Charot! Honestly, what we’re served on social media is a fantasy sold to us—sugar-coated in six-pack abs and Calvin Klein underwear. It’s like buying into a K-drama fantasy thinking you’re gonna end up with someone as gwapo as Park Seo Joon when, in reality, si kuya fishball vendor lang ang kakuwentuhan mo sa tapat ng tricycle terminal. 

So paano na yung mga beshies na hindi nagge-gym araw-araw? I mean, kahit si Ate Vice, pumiyok na: “Iba-iba tayo ng trip at beauty!” Kaya relax ka lang dyan sa tabi, let’s talk about how you can be the best version of yourself—kahit na walang six-pack abs, walang gym selfies, at kahit simpleng kumusta ka? lang sa Tinder.

ARTICLE | The Complex Grief of Loss: Reflecting on the Passing of Maggie Smith

Today, the world was met with the heartbreaking news of Maggie Smith's passing. Known for her immense talent, spanning decades of exceptional performances, Smith left an indelible mark on both stage and screen. Her presence graced the likes of "Downton Abbey", "Harry Potter", and my personal favorite "Marigold Hotel" - a treasure trove of theater productions. Yet, beyond her iconic roles, this loss brings with it that familiar pang of sorrow that arises whenever someone passes away—whether it’s a celebrity or someone from the periphery of our own social circles.

EVENTS | Why Puerto Galera In The Philippines Is Perfect for Holy Week?

Holy Week in the Philippines is one of the most anticipated holidays, and for many Filipinos, it’s an opportunity for reflection, relaxation, and recreation. If you're looking for the perfect escape during this time, Puerto Galera is an excellent choice—particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. Here’s why.

You may also check out related articles on Puerto Galera

How to Get to Puerto Galera

https://www.pinoyinthecity.com/2023/12/travel-how-to-get-to-puerto-galera.html

Top 10 Best Accommodations in White Beach, Puerto Galera for Gay Men

https://www.pinoyinthecity.com/2023/11/travel-top-10-best-accommodations-in.html

EVENTS | Binibining Pilipinas 2024 - Results and Memes

The 60th edition of Binibining Pilipinas has just aired, and it was a spectacular event, especially with the gathering of past titleholders. The Philippines has a deep-rooted passion for pageantry, making this reunion a significant occasion. However, beyond the winners of this edition, the show was peppered with memorable and meme-worthy gaffes that added to the entertainment value. This is what makes watching Binibining Pilipinas so enjoyable. From the unexpected revelation of 500 peso worth of prizes to the notorious remarks of judge Gloria Diaz, let's take a recap of these highlights that made this year's event unforgettable.

TV SERIES | House of the Dragon, Season 2 - Episode 3: The Burning Mill

Alright, so for episode 3 of House of the Dragon, titled "The Burning Mill," which aired today, here are my thoughts. My initial reaction right after the episode ended was that it felt incredibly brief, like it just flew by. The story wasn't particularly gripping, but I found myself invested in how Rhaenyra would navigate her responsibilities to her house while trying to prevent the imminent war that is being foreshadowed in the narrative.

EVENT | Group Fun - Tanay Rizal - Aug 3, 2024

Feeling the need to escape the busy streets of Manila? We've got the perfect getaway for you! Join us on August 3rd for an overnight camping trip in the scenic Tanay, Rizal. It’s going to be a great time to meet new people, enjoy fun activities, and relax in nature. Here’s what you need to know.

TV SERIES | House of the Dragon, Season 2 - Episode 2: Rhaenyra the Cruel

House of the Dragon, Episode 2 gave us a lot to think about with its mix of politics, personal grudges, and complex characters. The episode’s focus on dialogue set up some big conflicts and showed us what drives the key players. Here’s a look at what we saw and where it might lead.

Power Plays and Politics

The argument between Aegon II Targaryen and Otto Hightower showed the growing tension in the royal court. Aegon II’s attempt to show his strength didn’t go as planned because Otto showed compassion for the innocent people hanged outside the castle. This was unexpected and made Otto’s character more interesting. Instead of being a typical power-hungry advisor, Otto seems to have a more complex personality. In future episodes, we might see Aegon II trying even harder to take control, possibly leading to drastic actions.