TRAVEL | Boracay's Rehabilitation: A Double-Edged Sword Impacting Tourism

"While Boracay's rehabilitation has successfully addressed critical environmental issues, it has also transformed the island's identity."

Boracay, a jewel in the Philippines' tourism crown, has long been celebrated for its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife. However, the island's rapid development led to significant environmental degradation, prompting the Philippine government to take decisive action. In April 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered a six-month closure of Boracay to address these environmental concerns, describing the island as a "cesspool" due to untreated sewage being discharged into the sea. 

ARTICLE | The Power of Perceived Value: Unlocking the Psychology Behind Consumer Choices

Abstract | Perceived value is a psychological and marketing concept that plays a pivotal role in how individuals and brands position themselves in competitive landscapes. This article explores how perceived value influences consumer decisions, the underlying mechanisms, and its applications in personal branding and self-worth.

How do premium brands justify selling products at a markup of hundreds or even thousands of dollars compared to their lower-cost alternatives? The answer lies in perceived value—a consumer's subjective assessment of a product's worth, shaped by branding, marketing, and external influences. This principle extends beyond commodities to how individuals project and evaluate their own self-worth.

COMICS | Exploring Death in the Marvel and Sandman Universes: A Look at How the Multiverse and Its Characters Intersect

If you’re a Marvel fan who recently watched WandaVision or Agatha: House of Harkness (known as Agatha All Along), you may have come across fan theories or online discussions speculating about characters and crossovers in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). One question that’s been especially intriguing for fans of both Marvel and DC’s The Sandman is how the concept of "Death" plays out across these two iconic worlds. In other words, if the MCU has its own character representing "death," how does that relate to DC’s iconic figure of Death in The Sandman?

ON A DIFFERENT NOTE | Marriage? In This Economy?! How to Survive Love, Life, and Drama with a Sprinkle of Empathy

And just like that, two of my colleagues asked me if I was already married, and that question hit me hard—not because I hadn’t been asked before, but because it felt like a reflection of a broader societal expectation that no longer fits the world we live in. Why are people still fixated about marriage, especially in this kind of economy? It’s challenging enough to support yourself, let alone take on the responsibility of raising a family. For me, that question was not about love or relationships, but about survival in an increasingly harsh economic landscape.

JOURNAL | The Fishy Tragedy: A Late-Night Disaster in Corporate Hell

It’s 10 p.m., and you’ve just left the office—well, “escaped” might be the better word. You’ve been there so long that the janitors have already done their rounds *twice.* And no, you’re not one of those people who carries a sleek little laptop that fits nicely into a bag. Oh no. You have a full-on desktop setup—keyboard, mouse, *the works*. Because apparently, *someone* in IT thought, “You know what this person needs? A device that weighs as much as their hopes and dreams.” By the time you get home, it’s 11 p.m. You’re tired, you’re hungry, and you’re dreaming of sitting down, eating your dinner, and maybe staring at a wall for an hour in existential exhaustion. 

ARTICLE | The Illusion of Fame: Lessons from Liam Payne's Fall

We live in a world where fame and fortune are seen as the ultimate markers of success. Scroll through social media, and it feels like everyone who's “made it” must be living the dream: beautiful vacations, perfect friendships, and a life that seems nothing short of glamorous. I wanted to write about Liam Payne today, the former One Direction member, but to be honest, I'm not much of a fan. I don’t follow One Direction’s music closely, nor do I idolize the culture surrounding them. Yet, I can’t help but reflect on the haunting reality that surrounds celebrities like Payne. They have what many of us think we want: money, fame, fans. 

TRAVEL | Why Isn’t the Philippines a Top Tourist Destination for Europeans? Here’s What’s Holding It Back

Last week, I found myself chatting with some German clients who mentioned their visit to the Philippines a few years ago. While listening to them reminisce about their time in the country, it suddenly hit me—why isn’t the Philippines more popular among European tourists? The Philippines is brimming with natural beauty, from breathtaking beaches to lush landscapes, not to mention the warm, English-speaking locals. Yet, for some reason, the Philippines doesn’t seem to make it to the top of the list when it comes to European travel destinations.

It’s a question that begs an answer, especially when neighboring Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore are thriving in tourism. So, what’s holding the Philippines back from being a global tourist hub? 

THE QUIET CORNER | Endless Spiral of Distraction

Sometimes, we just need to clear our minds. It’s almost impossible to focus when there’s so much going on inside our heads. The more we think about it, the more we get lost in that spiral. It feels like trying to grab a cloud—you can’t catch it, and the more you try, the more you drift away.

We all know the routine: you sit down to focus on the task at hand, determined to be productive. But then, out of nowhere, your brain decides to take a trip—unconsciously, without your permission. "A quick break won’t hurt," you tell yourself. "Just a few minutes, right?" 

But those minutes have a sneaky way of turning into hours. Before you know it, the good part of the day has slipped away, and you’ve accomplished… nothing. Absolutely nothing. The same thing happens every day, and no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to break the cycle. It’s a frustrating loop—your mind drifts, you procrastinate, and the day fades without any progress. The spiral is real.

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.

EVENTS | Highlights of QC Pride 2024 - From March to Cancellation Due to Rain

Here's a quick rundown of this year's QC Pride: From the long marching lanes of people showing support for various causes and social issues, to the heavy downpour that caused the cancellation of the concert, to the ruckus caused by those who came only to see BINI, this year’s event was certainly more colorful, albeit wet.

ARTICLE | How to Organize Group Fun

Throwing a Group Fun event is like planning the ultimate soirée – it takes flair, finesse, and a whole lot of fabulous! In this article, we provide a detailed guide to organizing these gatherings. It emphasizes meticulous planning by a dedicated team, effective marketing strategies via social media and targeted ads, careful screening of attendees to ensure a curated guest list, clear communication of event rules beforehand, and the execution of a structured and engaging event program. 

MOVIE REVIEW | Atlas (2024) - J.Lo's 'Atlas': A Star Power Misfire in a Predictable Plot

Seeing J.Lo in "Atlas" left me with mixed feelings. The last movie of hers that I genuinely enjoyed was "Maid In Manhattan." While I’m not an avid fan, I have to admit that Jennifer Lopez has undeniable acting skills. Unfortunately, "Atlas" wasn't the right project to showcase her talent. 

TV SERIES | House of the Dragon, Season 2 - Episode 1: A Son for a Son

After a two-year hiatus, "House of the Dragon" Season 2 has finally premiered, and its first episode, "A Son for a Son," proves that the wait was well worth it. Drawing heavily from the book chapter "Blood and Cheese," this episode sets the stage for a season brimming with tension and drama. Warning: spoilers ahead.

TV SERIES | House of the Dragon - Season 2: Who's Who This Season?

As the anticipation for Season 2 of "House of the Dragon" builds, fans of the "Game of Thrones" prequel are eager to dive deeper into the world of Westeros. Set nearly 200 years before the events of "Game of Thrones," "House of the Dragon" explores the Targaryen dynasty at the height of its power. With a rich tapestry of characters, the show promises more political intrigue, epic battles, and, of course, dragons. Let’s take an exhaustive look at the key players set to dominate Season 2.

JOURNAL | Halfway Through 2024

Here we are, right in the middle of 2024, which means the "BER" months are just around the corner again. This year has been tough in many ways, and I've realized that rushing to achieve our goals doesn't really help. With the current economy, starting a new job means it could take 6 to 12 months just to recover from debts and obligations. But despite everything, life is good. I have a roof over my head, and everyone in the family is healthy. People say it's better to live in the present, but I often catch myself worrying about the future. Maybe I should listen to Louise Hay's affirmation videos more often—they really help me stay calm and focused.

ARTICLE | The Rise and Fall of Gay Malate - Manila's Queer Mecca

When we talk about PRIDE in the Philippines, we cannot ignore Malate - the cradle of gay safe space in Manila until its eventual demise in the early 2000s. The younger generation will never know how cool it was to spend Friday nights in this small alley of the Orosa-Nakpil intersection, where the entire gay population of Manila flocked.

Read more about my encounters in Che'Lu 
https://www.pinoyinthecity.com/2009/10/last-night-i-lost-my-cellphone-at-chelu.html

ARTICLE | Pride and Progress: Celebrating Pride Month and Addressing the HIV Crisis in the Philippines

It's Pride Month once again—a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and take pride in the progress we have made together. Since the first Pride March, we have come a long way in our fight for equality and acceptance. The history of the Pride March dates back to June 28, 1970, when the first official march was held in New York City to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. These riots began on June 28, 1969, when police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village. The patrons, tired of constant harassment and discrimination, fought back, leading to several days of protests and clashes with law enforcement. This uprising is widely regarded as the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

ARTICLE | How to Make Friends, Gays Online Ask

In today’s digital age, forging genuine relationships can feel like navigating a maze, especially within the gay community. Younger generations often find themselves wondering how to turn online encounters into meaningful connections. Whether you're looking for friendship or romance, here are some simple tips to help you build and maintain these relationships.

MOVIE REVIEW | Looking (2014)

What's great about "Looking" is how it shows gay life in San Francisco in a relatable way. It covers different ethnicities and groups within the gay community, making it both fun to watch and informative. It talks about things like sexual roles and relationships in a positive light, and even touches on HIV awareness without getting too heavy. It's important to talk about stuff like HIV prevention and treatment, especially with how many cases there are worldwide.

TRAVEL | Party People in Puerto Galera 2024

This year holds the promise of another exhilarating Holy Week getaway, and there's no better destination than Puerto Galera. It's akin to the Fire Island experience for Pinoy gays, and during this time, White Beach transforms into a vibrant hub bustling with individuals from diverse backgrounds and body types. Yet, what truly makes Puerto Galera shine during this season is the unique convergence of people of all shapes and sizes within the LGBTQ+ community, creating an ideal atmosphere for forging connections and fostering new friendships.

TRAVEL | Crazy New Year's Adventure: Navigating Crowds and Chaos in the UAE

Last week was incredibly hectic for me; it seemed like every moment was accounted for, leaving me with little time for anything else. My schedule felt condensed, as if seven days were squeezed into just a few hours. The constant walking, back-to-back lunches, and navigating the bustling streets of Dubai made it an overwhelming experience. Reflecting on it now, I can confidently say that I won't be taking on such a packed agenda again anytime soon.