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It’s no secret that the Philippines is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, boasting natural wonders that make it a paradise for adventure seekers and lovers of the outdoors. Just recently, Siargao was selected among the best places to visit in Southeast Asia with its killer waves that make it the top surfing spot in the region. This month, the Philippines adds another badge of honor to its growing list of tourism recognitions and accolades.
Founded by Mr. Jason Chong in 2009, the DTR Show is the No. 1 Brand Diving Expo in Asia, attracting more than 450,000 professional buyers and visitors from over 65 countries worldwide. It has been held in several Asian cities such as Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Taipei, with the aim of further developing diving industries in the Asia Pacific region and fostering awareness for marine conservation.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) took to social media on Aug. 15 and announced that the country bagged the Best Diving Destination Award along with the Best Tourism Promotion Partnership Award.
The Office of the Department of Tourism in Beijing (PDOT-Beijing) led the country’s participation at the event and was joined by twelve dive shops, resorts, and liveaboards from the country.
Philippine Ambassador Jaime A. FlorCruz stated that dive tourism contributed over P73 billion to the Philippine economy in 2023, which is double the revenue compared to 2022. With this, Ambassador Jaime stated that they are “determined to project” the Philippines as the “World’s Premiere Dive Destination.”
At the showcase, Mr. Ernesto Teston, Assistant Tourism Attaché of PDOT-Beijing presented the top Philippine Dive destinations spots, while Ms. Sheena Anjeli Botiwey, Head of the North Asia Division of the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, introduced the diving companies in the Philippines to Chinese clients.
Earlier this year, DOT announced that they would be pushing groundbreaking projects this year, including hyperbaric chambers in select regions in the country. This plan aims to expand the Philippines' diving portfolio and to guarantee that every diver experiences the marine wonders of the Philippines safely.
Additionally, The Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving (PCSSD) is also actively developing dive sites across the country and has already audited over 120 destinations.
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Great news, travelers! If you’re planning to visit Vietnam’s stunning coastline, Philippine Airlines (PAL) has got you covered as they're set to beginoperating flights between Manila and Da Nang fromJuly 1, 2025.
The Philippine flag carrier announced on Apr. 7 that it will be mounting a new thrice-weekly service, starting with late morning and early afternoon departure schedules.
PR 585 (Manila to Da Nang) will fly every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, departing from Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 11:10 AM and arriving in Da Nang at 12:45 PM. Its return leg, PR 586 (Da Nang to Manila), will operate on the same days, departing Da Nang at 1:35 PM and arriving in Manila at 5:10 PM. It will be deploying Airbus A321 aircraft, which can accommodate up to 199 passengers. PAL will also give travelers the choice of Business Class and Economy Class services.
Photo from Facebook/Philippine Airlines
“We at Philippine Airlines are excited to strengthen our close relationship with the Vietnamese people with the introduction of direct Manila-Da Nang flights,” said Capt. Stanley K. Ng, PAL President and Chief Operating Officer. “PAL is committed to offering greater connectivity and promoting tourism and commerce between our capital city and the central Vietnamese heartland. We look forward to welcoming more leisure and business travelers onboard our flights to Da Nang.”
The new route is PAL’s third major expansion move in Vietnam this year, with the Manila-Hanoi-Manila route being recently upgraded to a daily service and the new flights between Cebu and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) set to launch on May 2.
Da Nang is the commercial and educational center of Vietnam, and is considered one of its most important port cities. This coastal destination offers tourists a chance to immerse themselves in rich history, picturesque beaches, and modern attractions and landmarks such as the famed Marble Mountains and Golden Bridge. Several UNESCO World Heritage sites are also within a hundred kilometers of the city, including Hoi An Old Town, the fabled Imperial City of Hue, and My Son ruins.
Don’t miss this chance to explore this lively coastal destination, and book your flights today via their website. You can also book through the mobile app, contact the PAL Hotline at (+632) 8855-8888, or reach out to their preferred ticketing offices or travel agents.
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Reaching Canada won’t take almost a day’s worth of flights anymore.
Air Canada, the flagship carrier of Canada, says Kumusta! to the Philippines and inaugurated its newest international flights linking Vancouver and Manila on Apr. 3, 2025, further solidifying its presence in Southeast Asia. This service also positions Air Canada as the only North American airline presently serving the most destinations non-stop in Southeast Asia.
The Philippines is Air Canada’s 12th destination in the Asia Pacific region and is the airline’s third Southeast Asian destination, following Bangkok in 2022 and Singapore in 2024. The news was first announced during the celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Canada-Philippines diplomatic relations in December 2024.
The first flight from Canada, flight AC017, departed from Air Canada’s Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Pacific Hub on Apr. 2, 2025, at 1:55 AM, and arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) on Apr. 3, 2025, at 6:04 AM.
Upon its arrival, flight AC017 was welcomed with a water salute by local authorities and a cultural performance by Banda Kawayan Pilipinas by the Philippine Department of Tourism. Festive celebrations also took place at the departure gate before flight AC018 departed, with key government officials present and departing passengers being gifted commemorative luggage tags.
“We are proud to be the only Canadian carrier flying to the Philippines, building on the longstanding ties between our countries to make visiting family and friends, conducting business, or heading on vacation more convenient than ever. With more than one million Filipinos living in Canada representing an important market, direct air services are a catalyst to facilitating tourism, trade and connectivity, and represent the fastest way of travelling to Manila,” said Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning, & President, Cargo.
“The new route from Vancouver to Manila is welcome news for British Columbians and will help better connect the more than 170,000 Filipino Canadians living here with their loved ones,” said BC Premier David Eby.
Air Canada will be flying thrice a week for the month of April and will be increasing its frequency to four times a week for their year-round service starting May. They will be flying on their flagship Boeing 787 Dreamline aircraft.
Air Canada Manila – Vancouver Nonstop Flight Media Press Conference
Air Canada unveiled its newest international route from Vancouver to Manila at a media press conference held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom on Apr. 3, 2025.
Present at the conference were Rocky Lo, Managing Director of International Sales at Air Canada, Kiyo Weiss, Senior Director of Sales – Asia Pacific at Air Canada, and Hon Lam, Regional General Manager in Hong Kong and Southern China at Air Canada.
Two Filipino-Canadian Air Canada employees with Hon Lam, Rocky Lo, and Kiyo Weiss for a photo op at the Press Conference last April 3, 2025 | Photo by The Beat Asia
When asked on why Air Canada had chosen the Philippines as its 3rd Southeast Asian destination, Rocky Lo, Air Canada’s Managing Director of International Sales said, “There are one million people in Canada with Filipino descent according to the 2021 Canadian census, so we know that this will help a lot of Canadian with Filipino descent to come home to visit their friends and relatives, as well as people bringing their friends and family from the Philippines to visit Canada.”
He also said, “A new route is more than a new route, it’s connecting two nations together. It’s connecting friendships, connecting family, connecting business. I’m looking forward to this new route and how it will create memories for our friends in the Philippines.”
Hon Lam, Air Canada’s Regional Manager in Hong Kong and Southern China echoed this sentiment and said, “We are here to bring not just the two nations, but the two cultures together, and we are actually as much of an ambassador of Canadian culture and also to bring Filipino culture to Canada.”
Special promotional prices for flights from Manila to Canada are available until Apr. 10, 2025. Customers and interested flyers can visit Air Canada’s website or contact their travel agents for more information.
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Japan has long been a favorite destination among Filipino travelers. From its iconic neon-lit cities and breathtaking natural landmarks, there’s just so much to see, do, and discover there, making it the ideal travel destination no matter what the season.
Filipinos hoping to make their hanami (flower viewing) dreams come true this Sakura season should know about some changes in the visa application process.
StartingApr. 7, travelers will need to process their Japan visas via the new Japan Visa Application Centre (JVAC), handled by VFS Global. These centers are located in five cities across the country, including Manila, Cebu, and Davao. This shift intends to make the application process more efficient, and ensure that more Filipinos will be able to make that Japan trip a reality without delays or stress.
Ready to explore the Land of the Rising Sun? Don’t be intimidated by the change, because we’re here to walk you through the process. Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to apply for your Japan visa today at the new JVAC.
STEP 1 – Identify Your Visa Type
Like in any travel documentation, it’s important to know the visa type your trip requires and to check whether you’re eligible for it. There are three types you can apply for via the new JVAC: Temporary Visitor (90 Days), Long Term Stay, and Temporary Visitor (Multiple Entry). Also, take note that the VFS will collect a service fee of P520 for each visa application.
If you’re planning on visiting for holiday or business purposes (without reward or pay), this is the visa type for you. Temporary Visitor visas for Philippine nationals are free of charge, and allow you to stay for a maximum of 90 days.
Required documentations vary depending on the purpose of the visit. You can find more information here. But for tourists, here are the documents that you’ll need:
A valid passport
Application Form (with 4.5×3.5 cm photo attached)
PSA issued Birth Certificate, issued within a year
PSA issued Marriage Certificate (for married applicants), issued within a year
Trip Itinerary
Bank Certificate (balance within the last six months must be shown)
Tax Payment Certificate (Form 2316 for employees) - Business owners must also submit proof of actual payment in addition to the BIR Tax Payment Certificate Form (copies acceptable)
Employment Certificate (for employees) - For business owners, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) “Certificate of Business Name Registration” and Mayor’s Permit from the City Hall must be submitted
School ID or Certificate of Enrollment in School (for students)
Some additional requirements:
If for any reason other than being a retiree, full-time housewife, or unemployed, you're unable to submit documents 6 and 7, you must submit a letter of explanation.
Document 3 is unnecessary if you have been granted a Japan visa before.
If a guarantor in the Philippines will shoulder all or a part of your expenses, a Guarantee Letter, Proof of relationship between applicant and guarantor, Bank Certificate, Tax Payment Certificate, and Employment Certificate must also be submitted.
Photo Specifications:
Your photo should have been taken no more than six months before the application time and should be a colored photo with a plain background.
The size is 45x35 mm and should clearly show your face.
If you’re applying for a multiple-entry visa, you also need to submit proof that you’re a frequent traveler with financial capacity, and the Request Form for a Multiple-Entry Visa. In addition to that, used Japan visas and landing permissions, as well as visas from G7 countries in the last three years, should also be submitted.
Once you’ve confirmed your visa type, it’s time to complete the application form. You can download them here.
Make sure to include all the information needed. It’s recommended to accomplish it in typewritten form for legibility, but if you’re doing it handwritten, make sure to write in print or block letters. Surnames should be capitalized, and boxes should be ticked with an “x.” For more tips on filling up the form, click here.
Once finished, print the form and attach your photo on the upper right side. Bring this form along with the other required documents to your chosen visa application center.
STEP 3 – Find a Center and Book Your Appointment
The first step is to create your VFS account here. This will grant you access to their booking portal. On the form, you’ll be asked to input details like your full name, nationality, contact number, passport number, appointment category (visa type), and preferred visa center. You can choose from any of the five cities below. All of the centers are open on weekdays from 7 AM to 4 PM, and accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards as modes of payment.
Makati City: Ground Floor, Makati Circuit Corporate Center Tower Two, AP. Reyes St. Brgy Carmona, Theater Drive Circuit, Makati City, 1207
Quezon City: Level 3 Gateway Tower Mall Araneta City Quezon City 0810
Parañaque City: Level 3, Parqal Mall, Building 5, Diokno Avenue corner Macapagal Boulevard, Paranaque City, Barangay Tambo, Postal Code- 1701, Metro Manila
Cebu City: Unit 9, 7th floor Faustina Center, Bonifacio District, Cabahug St. Kasambagan, Cebu City, 6000
Once you’ve filled in the necessary details, simply choose a date and time slot for your appointment. It’s important to note that applications only run until noon, so all appointment slots are in the mornings.
You can also add additional services to your booking, such as courier delivery for your passport (P370), Application tracking via SMS (P150), form-filling aid (P150), and visa ID photography (P180). There’s also premium lounge access for P1,500, which can make your visit more convenient as this includes beverages, a dedicated visa processing aid, a separate waiting room, and priority access.
Once you’ve confirmed your appointment, you can opt to pay for everything online or pay on-site on the day of your appointment. You will then receive an appointment confirmation email along with the letter of appointment, which you’ll need to print out and bring on the day. If you’re booking as a family or group, you will have to book individual appointments for each member.
STEP 4 – Submit Your Application On Site
Yes, you will need to submit your application in personat the visa application center of your choice. It’s advisable to be at your designated application center at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time to prevent delays and allow ample time for security checks, as well as allowances for last-minute changes.
Make sure to bring your original passport, your visa application form, and all the necessary documents (both original and photocopies). If you’ve availed of additional services and paid online, bring the receipt. The P520 service fee will also have to be paid on-site, so make sure to have cash on you.
Your biometric information will be collected during your visit, so expect to undergo a fingerprint scan and headshot as part of your application. It’s advisable to dress appropriately and confidently on the day. Since they will be taking your photo, don’t wear too much jewelry or heavy makeup. You also cannot wear sunglasses or head coverings unless these are worn for religious or ethical reasons.
Staff will be there to assist you through the process. Once you’ve finished, you’ll be given a receipt that contains your reference number along with your date of birth. You can use this information to track your application online. You will also receive an update in your registered email once a decision has been made about your application. You may also receive updates via SMS for an additional fee.
How long does it take?
Once you’re application forms, documents, and biometric information have been collected, your application is considered submitted and is subject to the embassy’s wait times, which may vary depending on your visa type.
Assuming there are no issues with the documents and application, the processing time typically takes a minimum of six days from the day the application is received.
However, if the volume of submissions is high, it may take longer. It’s advised that you file your visas well in advance.
Once a decision has been made, you can pick up your passports at the JVAC if you didn’t avail the courier service. Pick-up times are usually in the afternoon and last until 4 PM. You will also need to bring a valid government ID.
If someone else is picking it up for you, a letter of authorization will be required, as well as a copy of your valid ID.
Some Tips
Create a checklist. To avoid forgetting anything, make a checklist. Organizethe documents based on the order mentioned in Step 1. An official from the center will be checking your documents prior to your entry, and this makes it easier for them to sift through the papers. Don’t staple your documents and keep everything in a clear envelope carrier for easier access.
Map your route and come early. Traffic doesn’t choose hours now, so it’s best to anticipate that your travel times may take longer than what Waze or Google Maps estimates. Look up parking spots beforehand if you're bringing a car, or map out your commute route in advance to avoid getting lost or delayed on your journey.
Prepare copies in advance. Although there are photocopy machines at the center, they will most likely be crowded. Don’t wait till the last minute to make copies of your documents.
Take a photo of your receipts. After everything has been submitted, take a snap of your invoice for backup.
FAQs
I want to go to Japan. Do I need a visa?
Philippine passport holders or nationals are required to apply for a visa to be allowed entry into the country. If you hold a different passport, you can check this list to confirm if you need to apply.
Is there an interview?
There is no interview. Your visit to the JVAC is mainly for submitting the application and biometric information collection.
How early should I apply for a visa?
As processing times vary, we advise starting your application within one to two months of your departure date. This allows you ample time to gather all the necessary documents and anticipate any delays with the embassy.
My visa application was denied. Can I get a reason?
Unfortunately, it is a common rule followed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic missions that the center cannot provide specific reasons for visa rejection.
For more information and inquiries, visit the VFS Global official website or contact them via email at [email protected]
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Discover Balesin Island Club’s luxurious offerings – accessible with just one exclusive membership.
Balesin Island Club proudly introduces Balesin Key, an exclusive membership offering made to redefine luxury living. Balesin Key expands Alphaland’s prestigious portfolio for its members, providing access to new destinations beyond Balesin Island – Balesin City and Balesin Pines.
Introducing Balesin City and Balesin Pines
Balesin City is a luxurious urban retreat where business and leisure seamlessly coexist. Formerly known as The City Club, the facility has everything for its members to enjoy, including business lounges, wide event spaces, and specialty restaurants, mostly the same restaurants found on Balesin Island. The property’s inclusive fitness and recreational facilities ensure that members’ well-being is never compromised. From indoor golf and pickleball to yoga and pilates, maintaining a fitness routine has never been easier.
Location: 4th to 6th Levels, Alphaland Makati Place 7232 Ayala Avenue Ext., 1209 Makati City
Balesin City | Courtesy of the Balesin Island Club
Balesin Pines, on the other hand, is a tranquil gateway for those craving fresh mountain air. With 18 luxury accommodations, an equipped gym, and the signature Leea Spa, relaxation is king at this mountainside retreat. Balesin Pines allows Balesin Key members to recharge in complete comfort, with nature’s soundtrack setting the mood for reflection and serenity.
Balesin Pines | Courtesy of the Balesin Island Club
One Key, Three Worlds
“Balesin Key is more than a membership; it’s our members’ passport to three extraordinary worlds that provide a complete lifestyle,” says Joanna Ongpin Duarte, Balesin Spokesperson.
“This new share allows members access to the tropical island escapes in Balesin Island, the cosmopolitan elegance of Balesin City, and the mountain serenity in Balesin Pines. Our members can experience seamless luxury across our three distinct properties with just one key.”
Elevated Expansions and Improvements
Balesin Island has elevated its appeal with beautifully refreshed villas, eco-friendly innovations, and a variety of leisure activities, making it the ultimate destination for both relaxation and adventure.
The villas in Balesin Village now feature a light, airy atmosphere with elegant finishes, expertly curated by Head of Design Rico Sison. Each villa represents the essence of island luxury, offering guests a serene and sophisticated retreat.
Courtesy of the Balesin Island Club
For those seeking nautical elegance, Balesin Island’s 38.5-meter superyacht M/Y Obsessions, now sports a sleek exterior with interior enhancements. Adventurous guests can delight in boat tours, including the scenic “Secret Beach” or “Turtle Cove” excursions, or try water sports like wakeboarding, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Marine life surrounding the island has also been thriving under Balesin’s coral reef rehabilitation program.
A top view look into the Secret Beach Tour offered by Balesin Island | Courtesy of the Balesin Island Club
Foodies are in for a treat with revamped menus at Bali Warung, Costa del Sol Casa Grande, and Han-Gang Mama Lee, offering authentic flavors and memorable dining experiences. Classic Filipino dishes like the kilawin are still iconic must-tries at the Clubhouse Dining and Fish Fun.
Courtesy of the Balesin Island ClubCourtesy of the Balesin Island Club
Sustainability remains at the heart of Balesin’s evolution. By September, a solar farm is set to supply up to 60% of the island’s energy, reducing its carbon footprint.
In April, Hiraya Farm will start welcoming visitors for immersive farm tours. Balesin has partnered with Gourmet Farms to maximize the farm’s produce and efficiency based on the island’s food requirements. Guests can savor native snacks and fresh tea made from the island’s own produce, offering a delightful farm-to-table experience.
Balesin Island continues to stand out as a premier destination for guests, with its thoughtful blend of luxury and sustainability.
With Balesin Key, members can now enjoy seamless access to these unparalleled destinations, unlocking the freedom to choose how they live, work, and relax. It truly is not just a membership card — it’s an invitation to enter three worlds where luxury knows no bounds.
Welcome to a world where relaxation, recreation, and refined living come together effortlessly. Whether you’re closing deals in the city, enjoying picturesque sunsets by the shore, or finding peace and solace in the mountains, Balesin Key ensures that comfort and convenience in your happy places are always within reach.
All it takes is just one key to access a lifetime filled with ultimate getaways.
For more information, visit the Balesin Keywebsite, and follow their pages on Facebook and Instagram.
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The National Museum of Fine Arts is one of the Philippines’ premier museums, situated in the district of Ermita in Manila. This neoclassical structure is one of three neoclassical buildingscomprising the National Museum Complex.
Prior to being a museum, the building first served as the Legislative Building, formally opening the Second Regular Session of the 7th Philippine Legislature on July 16, 1926. In 1935, the building served as the backdrop of the proclamation of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the inauguration of then-President Manuel L. Quezon.
The building housed different legislative bodies in the Philippines from 1926 to 1972, and the Philippine Senate from 1987 to 1997. In 1945, the Old Legislative Building, along with the Department of Finance building, was heavily bombarded following the Battle of Manila, leaving the north and south wings of the building damaged. The two buildings were rebuilt from 1949 to 1950, following the original blueprints but with less interior and exterior ornamentation.
In 1998, the Old Legislative Building was turned over to the National Museum of the Philippines, with the Fine Arts Museum opening its doors in 2000.
The National Museum of Fine Arts is one of the most visited museums in Metro Manila. Recently, the National Museum of the Philippines announced that all their Central Complex and Regional Component Museums across the country will be open daily from 9 AM to 6 PMforfree to be more accessible to the public.
The museum currently houses 29 galleries and hallway exhibitions, where artworks and sculptures dating from the 19th century up to the present, as well as famous paintings from classical Filipino masters, National Artists, and leading modern artists, sculptors, and printmakers, are on display.
Some of the artworks on display in the museum are there for a limited-time period only, being on loan from government institutions, organizations, and individuals.
What to See at the National Museum of Fine Arts
Spoliarium (1884) by Juan Luna
Courtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines
This enormous painting by Juan Luna greets visitors at the Spoliarium Hall, and is one of the museum’s most prized possessions. The Spoliariumwon a gold medal (the first of three) at the Exposición Nacional de Bellas Artes in 1884. It depicts a despoiling scene in a Roman circus where dead gladiators are stripped of their weapons and clothing.
Where: Spoliarium Hall, 2F
Josephine Sleeping (between 1895-1896) by José Rizal
Photo by The Beat Asia
This sculpture by the Philippines’ foremost Filipino hero and nationalist, José Rizal, is the museum’s most recent acquisition, unveiled on the 128th anniversary of the hero’s martyrdom. The clay sculpture offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of José Rizal and his “ultimo amor,” Josephine Bracken, and is described by historian and curator Lisa Guerrero Nakpil as the “pinnacle of Rizal’s last four years in exile in Dapitan.”
Where: Spoliarium Hall, 2F
Filipino Struggles Throughout History (1968) by Carlos V. Francisco
Courtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines
This seven-panel masterpiece by National Artist Carlos “Botong” Francisco is the artist’s greatest surviving work, finished just a month before his death in 1969. The painting features the story of the Filipino people through the centuries, divided into seven paintings.
First painting: Pre-colonial Philippines, arrival of the Spanish, evangelization of the Philippines, the attack of Chinese pirate Limahong, and the Dutch and British invasions of Manila.
Second painting: Francisco Baltazar or Balagtas and Dr. José Rizal surrounded by the characters of the books they wrote, analogizing the abuses of the Spaniards to Filipinos, and the execution of the GomBurZa by garrote in 1872.
Third painting: the establishment of the La Solidaridad, La Liga Filipina, the Katipunan, the execution of José Rizal, the Cry of Balintawak, the entry of the Americans into the Philippines, and the Japanese occupation of the Philippines.
This painting was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippinesin April 1996.
Where: Old Senate Hall, 3F
The International Rice Research Institute Series (1962) by Vicente S. Manansala
Courtesy of the National Museum of the PhilippinesCourtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines
These paintings by National Artist for Painting Vicente S. Manansala were commissioned by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), depicting rural life and small-town events in Los Baños, Laguna, in the transparent cubism style he is renowned for.
These are the first works by Manansala to be declared as National Cultural Treasures.
Where: Gallery XXII International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Hall, 3F
Una Bulaqueña (1895) by Juan Luna
Courtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines
A National Cultural Treasure, this painting is one of the many that Juan Luna painted when he returned to the Philippines in 1894. The woman in the painting was identified by the National Museum of the Philippines to be Emiliana Yriarte Trinidad.
Where: Gallery VI: Far East Bank and Trust Company – Andrés and Grace Luna de San Pedro Memorial Hall, 2F
Interieure d’un Café (Parisian Life) (1892) by Juan Luna
Courtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines
Painted in 1892, it is one of Juan Luna’s works from his time in Paris and from the period he was most active in the Philippines’ Propaganda Movement. This painting depicts a period in Luna’s painting career when he was moving away from the “dark colors of the academic palette” and adapted dispositions “increasingly lighter in color and mood.”
“Parisian Life” also gave a glimpse of Luna’s personal life in Paris, accompanied by two of his close friends, namely José Rizal and Ariston Bautista Lin.
Where: Gallery VI: Far East Bank and Trust Company – Andrés and Grace Luna de San Pedro Memorial Hall, 2F
La Venganza de la Madre (The Mother’s Revenge) (1894) by José Rizal
Courtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines
Another of José Rizal’s sculptures made in exile, it’s a depiction of a mother dog trying to rescue her pup from the bite of a crocodile. The National Museum interprets the sculpture as a symbolic representation of Filipino revolutionaries saving the defenseless countrymen from the clutches of Spanish rule.
Where: Gallery V: Dr. Jose Rizal Hall, 2F
Doxology (1993) by Julie Lluch
Courtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines
This piece is made up of two life-size figures made of terracotta. One of the figures is a self-portrait by Julie Lluch, resting on the floor with its hands clasped together as a representation of her hardships. The other figure has its arms and hands extended, and its eyes looking towards the sky as a form of prayer.
Julie Lluch is a renowned terracotta sculptor, her works exploring themes of femininity and societal norms.
Where: Gallery XXIX Philippine Modern Sculpture Hall, 4F
Philam Life Alcantara Relief Series (1961) by Jose P. Alcantara
Courtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines
The 1,536-meter Narra wood relief portrays Philippine history, culture, and folklore. The panels are spread throughout different halls in the National Museum of Fine Arts and had originally decorated the walls of the Philam Life Auditorium, located at UN Avenue, Ermita, until its transfer to the museum in 2019.
Where: Gallery XVI Philippine General Hospital Hall, 3F, and other parts of the museum.
Larawan Litrato, Foto- óleo and Picture Portraits in the Philippines (1891-1953)
Courtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines
Foto-óleowas an art form popular during the mid-19th to mid-20th centuries, popular most especially with middle-class and prominent Filipino families. This was done by hand-painting directly on black and white photographs to make them appear life-like and become visually appealing.
This special exhibition showcases some of these works from some of the old photo studios in Manila.
Where: Gallery VII Special Exhibition Hall, 2F
Harana in Manila (1955) by Arturo Rogerio Luz
Courtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines
One of the rarest works of Arturo Rogerio Luz, it is the only one he had done in this medium — Steuben crystal. It was part of the “Asian Artists in Crystal” at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC, and at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
Luz portrays the Philippine tradition of courtship or “Harana” with a man leading a group of musicians, presumably his friends, while the sun sets in Manila Bay. The National Museum of the Philippines describes the work as “representative of the artist’s guiding principle in doing art, which is unity, clarity, and simplicity.”
Where: Gallery XXIX Philippine Modern Sculpture Hall, 4F
National Museum of Fine Arts, Floors
Judiciary Floor
The House of Representatives Floor
Padre Burgos Entrance
The President Manuel Roxas Foyer
The Spoliarium Hall
Exhibition Galleries I to XII
The President Sergio Osmeña Function Hall
The Senate Floor
The President Manuel L. Quezon Foyer
Exhibition Galleries XIII to XXIV
The Senate Session Hall (Main Level)
The Senator Claro M. Recto Function Hall
The Executive Floor
The Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Senate Foyer
The Senate Session Hall (Mezzanine Level)
Exhibition Galleries XXV to XXIX
The President Jose P. Laurel Function Hall
Management Offices
How to Get There
The National Museum of Fine Arts is highly accessible by public transport, with jeepneys, buses, and the Light Rail Transit 1 (LRT 1).
LRT 1: Get off at United Nations Station or Central Terminal.
Bus: Alight at the Manila City Hall stop
Jeepney: Jeeps that carry the Mabini sign or from Kalaw will pass by the museum
Guidelines & Things to Remember
Baggage Counters are available upon entry. Prohibited items are listed on the National Museum of the Philippines' Instagram and on site.
Photography is allowed inside the museum, but the use of flash photography is strictlyprohibited.
Commercial/Professional photography should secure the necessary permits.
Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately inside the museum and should consider the sensitivities of others.
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Heads up, Chingus!Seo In Gukhas been officially named the Philippines’ Celebrity Tourism Ambassador for South Korea by the Department of Tourism (DOT).
Known for his work in various popular K-Dramas such as “Reply 1997” (2012) and “Doom At Your Service” (2021), Seo partners with DOT to promote the Philippines as a premiere destination for Korean travelers. DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco led the memorandum signing with the actor and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) at the DOT office in Makati City last Feb. 21.
As part of the agreement, Seo will participate in a series of promotional campaignsfeaturing Philippine tourist hotspots such as Boracay, Cebu, and Manila. He will also be engaging in digital content creation and immersive experiences to highlight the Philippines’ vibrant culture, natural beauty, and world-class hospitality.
Photo from The Department of Tourism/Facebook
This collaboration aligns with DOT’s current strategy to expand the country’s global tourism appeal by leveraging pop culture and social media influence. An actor and singer of Seo’s caliber means he has an extensive fanbase with whom they could connect and share the wonders of the islands. The singer-songwriter just held his first-ever fan meet in Southeast Asia in Manila last August 2023, proving his close ties with Filipino fans.
The actor expressed his gratitude at the meeting, as he promised to promote the Philippines and encourage more Koreans and other foreign nationalities to visit the country. His heartfelt message has been translated on DOT’s Facebook post:
“Thank you, and it feels very nice, and it’s an honor for me to be on this stage,” he said. “I really feel [a] big responsibility as a representative of and as a promoter for one country. I really really want to thank everyone for making this happen for me and I really want to say that I will give back all the love that you gave to me and I will be someone to promote the Philippines to others in the future. Thank you very much. Mahal ko kayo (I love you all).”
Photo from The Department of Tourism/FacebookPhoto from The Department of Tourism/Facebook
We don’t know about you, but we’re excited to see Seo play his most significant role yet!
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At first glance, walking around Metro Manila could be just like signing your death sentence — it’s that dangerous. Yet it remains a part of the daily lives of many, those with no choice but to skimp on convenience and those who would like to give Metro Manila’s streets a try.
If you thought that walking from one place to another in Metro Manila was impossible, then a group of students from De La Salle University-Manila (DLSU) would say the contrary.
Meet the "Chinito Walkers"— Irvin Ong, Bon Shi, and Idrian Lim — a trio currently making a case for a more walkable Metro Manila. Initiated by Irvin, who goes by the name JetNekko on social media, these students from DLSU-Manila regularly go on walks from their university to some place within Metro Manila to advocate that you can walk anywhere.
The Beat Manila got a chance to chat with the Chinito Walkers to get to know their motivations, realizations, and their thoughts on a more walkable Metro Manila. Read on to get to know them more and see how they feel about walking the streets of Metro Manila.
Hi Chinito Walkers! What is the motivation behind creating your content on TikTok?
JetNekko: Technically, I would say that I started the idea. We were having lunch on a normal school day — it was a Tuesday. Then, usually, we’d just go home via LRT. The LRT station nearest to DLSU is Vito Cruz, right? Then we’d go back to Bambang. On that day, the line to the LRT was ridiculously long, to the point that it stretched to the outside. What we usually do is walk to Quirino Station, which is a 5-minute walk, then take the LRT from there because the line and trains aren’t too crowded.
But it just came out of my mouth and I said, “What if we walk home?” Just for the experience. Then coincidentally, my song “Aking Sinta” hasn’t been released yet. So I thought, “What if I make a video of us walking from DLSU to Bambang, and then put my song in the background for extra promotions? ” I wasn’t an active content creator then, but I thought, “What if we just give it a try?” Then we did. It started as a joke, and now it’s something that we do.
Aside from being the Chinito Walkers, who are you guys behind the scenes?
Idrian: Well, basically we’re just a group of friends since high school. We all have our own lives — Irvin (JetNekko) does music, and Bon and I have our own hobbies and sports. With what Irvin mentioned earlier, no one really expected this to blow up. The next day after the video was uploaded, my friends were already sending it to me saying, “Why are you on TikTok?” And I asked the same thing because I didn’t know that Irvin was recording at the time.
JetNekko: It was pretty lowkey at the time, even Idrian didn’t know it was for a TikTok and thought that I was recording for personal reasons. It was just a timelapse compared to our videos now.
Idrian: We wanted to ride on the hype our first video got, so that’s why we’re here now.
Can you tell me any stories about your walks? Anything memorable or what you realized while doing your content?
Idrian: We realized a lot, there were also a couple of times when we almost got hit [by cars]. It was scary.
JetNekko: Our walk from DLSU to Ateneo [in Quezon City] was our hardest walk, and our longest walk so far. It was incredibly difficult because we experienced different weather in different hours. The first few hours were so hot, then it rained in the end. We didn’t have umbrellas; we were just walking in the rain. Our things and phones were wet, and we passed everything. There was a time when there was so much traffic, roads without any sidewalks, and parts where there was so much trash. Our main realization while doing this content is that the Philippines needs a lot of work in terms of urban planning and such.
What was the most random comment you’ve received on your social media?
JetNekko: There are people commenting that we should go to extremely far places like Tagaytay, Dasmariñas, [or] Baguio. It’s fun to look at because there are a lot of people talking about it and we have a lot of choices and places to choose from.
Do you receive negative comments about your walks?
Idrian: Only a few, those that say that we didn’t [actually] walk the entire thing. There are people doubting but other than that, none really.
JetNekko: There’s at least one person commenting on our videos saying that we have a lot of time. But actually…We plan it down to the point that we slowly lose our free time because we try to turn this hobby into something more serious.
Idrian: We’re having a hard time.
JetNekko: The other side that people don’t see is that we sacrifice a lot of time and effort for this, especially for editing. Editing takes so much to the point that the time for editing is much longer than our walks. I would edit it continuously because there’s a lot to do. It’s a new learning [experience] for us on how to balance our studies and content creation.
As avid walkers around Metro Manila, do you think that Metro Manila has the potential to become more walkable in the future? Why or why not?
Bon: Metro Manila has the potential to be walkable in the far future, as long as the people in charge finally see what’s happening and start doing things to make it better. The infrastructure and urban planning [of Metro Manila] definitely have the chance to become better.
JetNekko: I think there are two sides to this: the government and citizens should help each other out. It has to go hand in hand; it’s a bit impossible in the next five years, maybe in 10 years. We recently walked somewhere, and we didn’t see one clean river.
Idrian: We didn’t see any clean river, and they removed the sidewalks for the cars to have more space. So, I believe that it’s going to be possible in the far future, because it’s not going to take a short time to build sidewalks. For now, walking doesn’t seem to be a priority in city planning, so it will really take a long time.
Any future potential content for your “Chinito Walkers” page?
Idrian: We talked about moving our content to our main page on TikTok because our current walking series is on JetNekko’s. We do plan to make our group content on our page, but so far, we haven’t thought of anything.
Bon: Basically funny videos.
JetNekko: We keep hearing our friends saying that we’ll eventually run out of places to walk to. They keep asking, “Where are you going next? Won’t you run out of places?” From a content creator’s perspective, I feel like any type of content has its time, but we’re maximizing what we’ve created, and I think we’re the only ones doing this long walking series, and as of now it’s working and hyped; a lot of people are still watching. We’ll still continue our content; we’ll talk about creating new ones and we’re open to suggestions.
Where are you walking to next?
As of writing, their walk hasn’t been posted.
Idrian: We’re already struggling to fit three walks in one month.
JetNekko: Actually, we’re walking later. We’re also getting inquiries for collaborations, and as much as possible we try to fit them in our walks. What we can say is that it’s a university but stay tuned!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. To catch the Chinito Walkers on their next walk, follow JetNekko’s TikTok page, and follow the Chinito Walkers on their Instagram
and TikTok pages.
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