Published: August 05, 2026

Last Updated: August 13, 2026

Stephanie Zubiri on the Power of Healing, Love, and Lifting Others Up

by: The Beat Asia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
August 05, 2026

Last Updated:
August 13, 2026

There's an unspoken rule for women who seem to have it all together: you smile through pain, power through your struggles, and you definitely don't admit — out loud — that sometimes you just want to give up.

Stephanie Zubiri broke that rule. And now she's helping other women break it too.

For a little over two decades, Stephanie has built a multi-hyphenate career: travel and culture journalist, an award-winning author behind the "Feast With Me" cookbook and the "Chalky the Chameleon" children's book, a former magazine editor, TV host, and entrepreneur, and chef-owner of a restaurant, "Atelier 317."

Her stacked resume reads like a career most people spend a lifetime chasing.

Somewhere between it all, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Stephanie was quietly falling apart. Her marriage ended in 2019, leaving her to parent her two sons, Seb and Max, largely on her own — and to face depression, postpartum depression, and anxiety in a society that tells women to suffer in silence.

Stephanie in a lake — Photo from Instagram/ Stephanie Zubiri

Looking back, she wishes someone was there to tell her she wasn't alone. And that's who she's become for other women now.

Through her podcast, "Soulful Feasts," and the Soulful Journeys wellness retreats and workshops she now leads, Stephanie has turned her own healing — therapy, yoga, Reiki, meditation, and the slow, unglamorous work of rebuilding oneself — into a roadmap for women who don't know where to begin or are afraid to say out loud that they need help.

"There is something extraordinary that happens when one woman tells the truth," Stephanie tells The Beat Asia. "The moment one person says 'me too,' everyone else realizes they're not alone."

In this exclusive interview, The Beat Asia sits down with Soulful Feasts Founder Stephanie Zubiri to talk about her healing journey, why she chose to speak publicly about her darkest moments, the difference between generosity and self-abandonment, and what she'd say to any woman standing exactly where she once stood.

Stephanie with her kids — Photo from Instagram/ Stephanie Zubiri

You've spoken about battling depression, postpartum depression, and anxiety. Many women carry these and suffer in silence; what finally made you decide to speak about it openly?

It was really important for me to speak about it because when I was going through my own depression, nobody was really talking about it.

This was ten or twelve years ago, long before the pandemic. There wasn't nearly as much awareness around mental health as there is today. We were very much living in hustle culture, and I was raised with that mentality of: "Don't air your dirty laundry in public." You grin and bear it. Struggle was seen as a weakness.

I just remember feeling so incredibly alone. And even when I was exploring "new age" kind of healing modalities, I didn't feel like I could openly share because people wouldn't understand [then].

But even though we've made so much progress and mental health is far more openly discussed today, so many still carry shame around what they're going through. We still think we should brush it off, power through it, or simply pray harder. And while prayer, spirituality, and different healing practices can absolutely be part of the journey, the first step is really acceptance.

It's being able to say: "I'm struggling. I'm going through something," and then having the courage to ask for help.

That's especially true for women because we're often made to feel like we're not allowed to say certain things out loud. We're not allowed to admit that we're unhappy in our marriage, unhappy in our lives, that we want more, that we love our children but also want a career, or that we're simply confused about who we are and what we need.

By speaking honestly about my own experience, another woman might hear it and think that it's okay and they're not alone. We're allowed to not always be strong, to feel afraid, to want more, to not always be the rock and pillar of the family.

Our needs matter too.

Women are often expected to keep giving. How did you learn the difference between generosity and giving too much of yourself?

It's very simple: we give from our overflow. Now, I know that's much easier said than done.

A very concrete example is being generous with your time and emotional energy. Let's say you have someone who always comes to you with their problems. Generosity is sitting down with them and hearing them out, offering your presence and compassion, and maybe helping them think through possible solutions.

But solving the problem for them, constantly rescuing them, or repeatedly giving them money or other things at your own expense isn't always generosity. It's overgiving. And you need to ask yourself: "Why do we feel compelled to step in and save the day? Where is this coming from?"

The same is true emotionally. If someone is processing a situation that triggers your own trauma, then there may come a point where listening turns into reopening your own wounds. You can tell them that you care and you can spend time together, but they deserve support from someone who's equipped to help them.

That isn't abandoning someone. It's taking both of your well-being into consideration.

The line is simple: When does giving stop feeling expansive and start feeling depleting? When does it stop bringing joy and begin to feel like a burden? Only you can answer that; no one can draw that line for you. But generosity should leave your heart feeling open, not resentful.

How beautiful it is to be generous in spirit. But when the relationship becomes vampiric, when someone is constantly drawing from you without taking responsibility for their own healing or growth, that's no longer generosity. That's over-giving. And only you can decide where that boundary is.

You've said that we can't pour from an empty cup. For women who feel guilty about choosing themselves, what would you want them to understand about self-love and self-preservation?

Giving from our overflow means keeping our cup full. Because if we keep giving from our own cup, eventually it will empty. Eventually, we'll be drained. So it's important that we give from a place of fullness, knowing our needs are met, our energy is replenished, and we have the capacity to genuinely be there for someone else.

Self-love isn't selfish. It's the foundation that allows us to truly love everyone else. When we honor our own needs, we become more patient, more present, and more generous because we're no longer giving from a place of exhaustion.

Stephanie Full Moon Event Dinner — Photo from Instagram/ Stephanie Zubiri

There's often pressure to "bounce back" after difficult or complex life transitions. What did healing actually look like for you in practice?

Healing didn't look beautiful. It wasn't one breakthrough moment where suddenly everything was okay. It looked like therapy, yoga, Reiki, prayer, meditation. But it also looked like chowing down on pad thai while binge-watching sad movies. It mostly looked like crying on the bathroom floor. More importantly, it looked like asking for help when every part of me wanted to isolate.

It also meant learning to stop seeing healing as something I had to complete before I could start living again.

Healing isn't linear. It's cyclical. Some days you feel light and free, and other days, an old wound surprises you. That doesn't mean you've failed. It simply means another layer is asking to be seen.

Eventually, I stopped asking, "When will I be healed?" and started asking, "What is this moment asking me to learn?" And that changed everything.

After turning 40, you've spoken about learning to "hold space" for your body even on the days you don't feel your best. In a world that's constantly telling women to look younger or more put-together, what does self-love look like in your daily life?

Here's a funny story: I finally got a few strands of white hair on my temples. It started with one or two; I kept plucking them self-consciously. Then eventually, more sprouted, and I was like, "OMG, they're taking revenge!" I kept going back to the hairdresser to dye them. He told me to stop plucking, or they'll become wiry and unruly; just accept them, and we can manage them better. So while more grew and I do dye them, it no longer bothers me to see them. In fact, I look at them fondly and think: "Okay, my badge of honor. I am truly entering my wild woman and crone era."

Self-love isn't looking in the mirror and pretending to love every inch of myself every single day. It's choosing kindness. It's holding space for my body, especially on the days I don't feel my best.

This body has carried children. It has gone through grief. It has brought me joy. It's helped me get through some of the darkest moments of my life. The least I can do is meet it with compassion. It's not something to fix. It's my home, a temple I can care for.

You've said that "We only attract the kind of relationships that we think we deserve." How did you begin to believe you deserved more?

It began when I realized the relationship I have with myself sets the standard for every other relationship in my life. When I stopped abandoning myself, I also stopped accepting situations that required me to shrink. It's not that I suddenly became more confident overnight. I simply began listening to my soul more deeply. Little by little, I trusted my inner voice instead of my fears. And that's where self-worth really begins.

I often ask women to think of the person they love the most, someone they love unconditionally. Then I ask them: "Can you love yourself back in the same way? Can you see yourself the way you see this person? Can you value yourself the way you value them?" If the answer is no, then that's where the work begins.

Because all of our relationships are reflections of how we see and value ourselves. When a relationship asks you to shrink or compromise who you truly are, and you genuinely value yourself, you'll naturally push back. You'll say, "No, this is who I am. These are my needs." If the person in front of you truly loves you, they will hear you and see you and accept you for exactly who you are instead of trying to change you or project onto you who they want you to be.

You almost have to fight for your whole, unconditional presence in a relationship. Only when you truly love yourself in that way can you ask for that kind of love from someone else. Otherwise, you'll keep making yourself smaller. You'll keep accepting little compromises until one day you no longer recognize yourself.

And I think the key element here is trust. Trust that the person you love can hear your needs and they can love you for who you really are. If you're constantly afraid that they'll leave if they see the real you, that they'll get angry if you express what you need, or if you'll lose the relationship by being fully yourself, then perhaps that's a relationship worth questioning. And that applies not only to romantic relationships, but even to friendships, family, and more.

My invitation is this: be fearlessly yourself. And trust that love is far more powerful than fear.

Stephanie meditating in the Himalayas — Photo from Instagram/ Stephanie Zubiri

You turned to Jungian therapy, yoga, Reiki, and meditation as pillars of your healing. For women who are just starting their journey, where would you suggest they begin?

Begin with one small act of honesty. Tell yourself. Tell someone. Tell a therapist. Tell a trusted friend. Healing doesn't begin with the perfect modality; it begins the moment you start pretending you're okay. For me, these were all important parts of my journey, but I don't believe there's one universal path. There are so many ways to heal, and the important thing is simply to begin.

I would also encourage people to spend time in nature or at least be inspired by it. Nature has this incredible ability to regulate our nervous system and remind us that everything moves in seasons. Sometimes moving in nature reconnects you to something much bigger than yourself.

And most importantly, don't try to do it alone. Healing isn't a solo journey; we all need people who can walk beside us.

Your work today seems rooted in connection and creating spaces for women to feel seen. What made you realize that community, not independence alone, was an important part of healing?

Healing doesn't happen in isolation. For the longest time, I thought strength meant figuring everything out on my own, and I thought asking for help somehow meant I had failed. But healing accelerated the moment I allowed other people to witness me, to be seen without judgment.

Women have gathered in circles for thousands of years. We heal through story, witnessing, remembering that we're not the only ones carrying grief, shame, or uncertainty. The moment one woman tells the truth, another woman finds permission to tell hers. The very first time I shared openly about my trauma with sexual abuse, other women did too. And together, we felt seen and held.

Community reminds us that we don't have to carry life alone, and wisdom unfolds in the power of the circle.

Soulful Feasts has grown into more than a podcast. It's become a space for women to reconnect with themselves. What kind of listener did you have in mind when you first created it?

Soulful Feasts began as a place for me to talk about the things I was curious about. It was a chance to meet people and experts I admired and have conversations I genuinely wanted to have. At first, it was really about nourishing the body, mind, and spirit.

Today, Soulful Feasts is really about nourishing the soul.

It's for the woman standing at the threshold, who has begun to feel the discomfort of growth. I often think of a snake shedding its skin. That process isn't graceful or comfortable. There's friction, resistance, and sometimes, even shame in letting go of the old version of yourself before you're fully certain of who you're becoming.

That's who I create Soulful Feasts for.

She's asking the difficult questions, navigating change — whether that's love, heartbreak, divorce, motherhood, career, identity, or purpose — and searching for what it means to become a whole, sovereign woman.

What conversations have surprised or changed you the most since starting it?

One conversation that will always stay with me was with Janine Khazaie, Founder of Massage Manila and Khozy Lounge. I had originally invited her to talk about her entrepreneurial "rags-to-riches" journey. Her son had been born prematurely, and they had gone completely bankrupt trying to keep him alive. She built everything from the ground up and today has created an incredibly successful business and a beautiful life for her family.

I thought that was going to be the conversation. Instead, she told me she wanted to talk about something else. She shared that she had been sexually abused by her stepfather throughout her childhood. I was completely floored by her extraordinary courage.

So many women have experienced sexual abuse or violence, yet so few feel able to speak about it openly. The shame is still often placed on the survivor instead of the perpetrator, and I think that's something we desperately need to change. Watching her reclaim her story with such honesty reminded me why these conversations matter.

Are there moments in your retreats and workshops that exemplify this energy of women gathering to reflect and heal together?

There is something extraordinary that happens when one woman tells the truth. Everyone realizes they're not alone. I've seen women arrive carrying decades of shame and leave with lifelong friendships.

One moment that stays with me happened during one of our retreats. A woman in her seventies, who had recently lost her husband, allowed herself to fully grieve in front of the group for the first time. There wasn't anyone trying to fix her or rush her through it. We simply witnessed her with love. That is the power of community.

Healing isn't found simply in advice. It's found in being deeply seen.

Stephanie in an Event — Photo from Instagram/ Stephanie Zubiri

If you could sit across from a woman who is, right now, in the place you were at your lowest, what would you say to her?

I would probably take her hands and say: "Girl, you are absolutely perfect just the way you are. Respect yourself. Honor the season that you're in. And know that you are not broken.

"You're just like a caterpillar in a chrysalis, in the midst of becoming this wonderful butterfly. And my dear, this cycle will come over and over again. You will keep transforming, alchemizing, and becoming more and more of yourself.

"Trust the process. Trust that you are not alone. Trust that so many have felt this way too. Please, speak up. Reach out. You will find help that is there. Support is there. Trust that people who truly love you will continue to love you throughout your different transformations, throughout your whole journey.

"Honor your soul. Take the space that you need. Give yourself the space to listen to the whispers of your soul. Hold your heart. Cherish your physical temple. And simply allow the unfolding of the beauty that is you."

You've said that "everything will happen in its own good time." And that there's no need to force or struggle, just flow. For the woman reading this who feels like she's running out of time to put herself back together, what's the one thing you want her to walk away believing?

Life isn't a race. Nature has never rushed a flower into bloom, and yet every season arrives exactly when it's meant to. We often think we're behind because we're comparing our timeline to someone else's, but your soul has its own timing.

Trust that even when nothing seems to be happening on the surface, so much is happening beneath it. Just because you can't see the blossom doesn't mean the roots aren't growing.

Everything that is meant for you will unfold in its own good time. Your only job is to keep showing up with an open heart and trust the unfolding.

Stephanie in a dance event — Photo from Instagram/ Stephanie Zubiri

You've worn so many hats over the years. Looking back, which version of yourself feels the most authentic today, and why?

The Stephanie that feels most authentic today is the one who can sit in her bathrobe with messy hair and not feel pressured to look or be like anyone else. I've stopped trying to fit myself into one consistent version of who I think I should be. Each different version of myself is true; each one reflects who I'm feeling or who I'm being in that moment.

We're made up of so many fragments of our lives. We're more like a mosaic, really. Or if you think of a jewel, we each have different facets and every one catches the light differently.

So the most authentic Stephanie today is the one who embraces the beautifully haphazard nature of her life.

She's the woman in stilettos, standing in a boardroom facilitating a workshop. She's in flowy yoga pants, holding space in a women's circle. She's in a bathrobe answering interview questions. She's in ratty shorts and unkempt hair, cooking dinner for her kids. She's the sensual woman dancing barefoot and howling at the moon.

All of those women are me. And all of them are authentic.

You've built a life that integrates spirituality, storytelling, motherhood, and advocacy. What does the next chapter of your story look like?

I'm constantly writing new chapters. For a long time, I used to chastise myself and think, "Why can't I just stick to one thing?" But I've really embraced the Manifesting Generator that I am. I love creating and crafting new projects. I've realized that storytelling can span so many different mediums, and I've finally given myself permission to express myself more freely.

That said, I've been working on a long-term project, a book that will be out early next year. I'm so excited to share it because I hope women will see parts of themselves in its pages and feel less alone.

Our Soulful Journeys retreats have become something I'm incredibly proud of. No wellness retreat is the same. But we have an upcoming one this October in Australia.

We're also preparing to launch our Hot & Healing Club, an online membership portal where people can access exclusive content and masterclasses, not just from me but from other practitioners.

The idea is to make this work far more accessible. Not everyone can join a retreat, but that shouldn't mean they can't continue their own journey. I hope the membership becomes another way of reminding people that transformation doesn't have to happen all at once. It can happen wherever you are, one small step at a time.

Stephanie Full Moon Event bonfire — Photo from Instagram/ Stephanie Zubiri

From Oct. 15 to 20, 2026, Stephanie is expanding her Soulful Journeys retreat series with "Enliven the Dream," a five-night pilgrimage through Queensland, Australia. The itinerary moves from three nights at Beechmont Estate to two nights at the Emporium Hotel South Bank in Brisbane.

Threaded through the retreat is Stephanie's Soulful Embodiment Practice, combined with Dreamtending. Guests can expect breathwork, meditation, forest bathing, and a series of Indigenous-led cultural experiences.

For more information and updates, follow Stephanie Zubiri and Soulful Feasts on Instagram.

Looking for the perfect place to gather, celebrate, or unwind? Discover and book standout venues across Asia with SPACES by The Beat Asia. Find your space today! Click here to explore SPACES.

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Manila/ The List/ Nightlife

Published: June 29, 2026

Pitch, Please: The Queer Table is Matchmaking in Polilya This July 11

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Instagram/ The Queer Table PH

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
June 29, 2026

Ditch the apps! The Queer Table PH is foregoing digital dating and turning matchmaking into a live event — and the pool is all queer women!

Manila-based LGBTQIA+ community organization is hosting "Pitch, Please," a live presentation night where attendees pitch their single sapphic friends to a room full of queer women. The event will take place on July 11, 2026 from 5 PM to 9 PM at Polilya in Poblacion, Makati City. Tickets are P450 and include one free drink.

Pitch, Please poster — Photo from Instagram/The Queer Table PH

The promise is simple: show up, build a presentation on your single sapphic best friend, and make the case to a roomful of queer women. Think of it as a pitch competition, except you might walk away with a date!

Candidates appearing on screen must be single queer women aged 25 and older. Everyone else is welcome to attend.

The event is organized by The Queer Table PH, a community organization built around creating intentional events and safe spaces for queer women. Their ethos is "You can sit with us."

Polilya, a Poblacion fixture since 2017, is known for their spin on classic cocktails, many using Filipino ingredients, and craft beers. One free drink is included with each ticket, and their menu offers plenty of options to set the mood before the evening's main feature.

As the Queer Table put it: "Let's get that third-wheel hitched so they can finally stop complaining about being single at 2 AM on a random Tuesday."

Registration is now open via the link in their bio.

For more updates and information, follow The Queer Table PH and Polilya on Instagram.

Pitch, Please by The Queer Table

Location: Polilya, 5767 Ebro St., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City

Date and Time: July 11, 5 to 9 PM

Admission Fee: P450 with one free drink

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Manila/ The List/ What's On

Published: May 04, 2026

Last Updated: May 06, 2026

Mother’s Day 2026: Notable Dining Experiences Around Manila

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Marco Polo Ortigas Manila

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
May 04, 2026

Last Updated:
May 06, 2026

Mother’s Day is often best marked not by grand gestures, but by thoughtful time spent together—unhurried conversations, shared dishes, and meals that invite lingering at the table.

Across Manila, hotels and restaurants are leaning into this sentiment with carefully planned dining experiences for 2026, ranging from celebratory brunches and expansive buffets to refined set menus and elegant dessert offerings.

This list brings together notable Mother’s Day specials around the city, each offering its own way to turn a meal into a meaningful occasion.

Marco Polo Ortigas Manila - Mother's Day Offers 2026

Marco Polo Ortigas Manila commemorates Mother’s Day with a curated lineup of dining, drinks, and dessert treats across the hotel. Highlights include “Made for Mom: A Cucina Celebration” from May 9 to 10, 2026, featuring an international buffet with chef-driven specialties, a flower bar, mocktail experience, photo booth, dessert grazing table, and live entertainment, with added perks for May 10 lunch guests; early-bird and regular rates apply.

Café Pronto rounds out the celebration with cakes, mini cakes, pralines, and scratch-card incentives for dessert gifting.

Marco Polo Ortigas Manila - Mother's Day Offers 2026 Marco Polo Ortigas Manila Sun, May 10 12:00 PM onwards Celebrate Mother’s Day with Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s “Made for Mom” dining lineup, featuring buffets on May 9–10, Cantonese set menus May 1–10, skyline drinks, and dessert gifting options.

Mirèio: Le Brunch De Maman

Mirèio at Raffles Makati presents “Le Brunch De Maman,” a special Mother’s Day Sunday brunch happening on May 10, 2026, from 12 PM to 2:30 PM.

The one-day experience showcases premium mains such as foie gras, lamb, and mud crabs, alongside other thoughtfully prepared dishes designed for a meaningful family celebration centered on food and togetherness. Priced at P6,000++ per person, the brunch is inclusive of VAT and subject to service charge and local taxes, with an optional endless cocktails and wine add-on starting at P2,500++.

Mirèio: Le Brunch De Maman MIRÈIO Sun, May 10 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM Celebrate Mother’s Day with “Le Brunch De Maman” at Mirèio, Raffles Makati, featuring an exquisite Sunday brunch with foie gras, lamb, and mud crabs on May 10, 2026.

Grand Hyatt Manila - Mother's Day Dining Celebration

Grand Hyatt Manila rolls out a selection of dining experiences this Mother's Day, available across the hotel throughout May. These include buffet promos on May 10, 2026 at The Grand Kitchen, Chinese set menus at No. 8 China House, a Merienda Cena buffet at The Lounge, and a seasonal Crab Paella at The Cellar from May 8 to 10. Additional offerings include Truffle Pizza at Pool House, dinner specials at The Peak Grill running through the end of the month, and gift-ready sweets from Florentine.

Grand Hyatt Manila - Mother's Day Dining Celebration Grand Hyatt Manila Sun, May 31 10:00 AM onwards Grand Hyatt Manila marks Mother’s Day with curated dining experiences across its restaurants, featuring special buffets, set menus, seasonal dishes, and sweet gift options available from May 1 to 31.

Flame Restaurant: For Mom, With Love

Flame Restaurant hosts a Mother’s Day buffet on May 10, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, priced at P3,800++ per person. The buffet includes artisan breads with house-made dips, a cold cuts and cheese selection, chilled seafood, house-cured salmon gravlax, and roasted U.S. prime rib, complemented by a dessert lineup of crème brûlée, maple pecan burnt cheesecake, chocolate velvet, and madeleines. Each mother is welcomed with a carnation, a glass of rosé, and madeleines, with the first 20 mothers receiving a P250 Laura Mercier voucher.

Flame Restaurant: For Mom, With Love Flame Restaurant Sun, May 10 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM Flame Restaurant presents a Mother’s Day buffet on May 10, 2026, featuring seasonal and signature highlights, thoughtful table touches for mums, and a curated midday dining experience in the city.

Edsa Shangri-La, Manila - 'Love, Served Daily' Mother's Day Celebration

Edsa Shangri‑La, Manila lines up a range of Mother’s Day dining options from May 8 to 10, 2026, spanning set menus, buffets, and afternoon tea across its restaurants. A limited-time dining incentive is available at HEAT, Senju, Summer Palace, Lobby Lounge, and Pool Bar, with qualifying spends earning a return food and beverage voucher.

The offerings include Cantonese set menus at Summer Palace, “A Pearl Affair” High Tea at Lobby Lounge, Japanese à la carte selections, and a Mother’s Day Matsuri Buffet at Senju, and buffet dining at HEAT.

Edsa Shangri-La, Manila - 'Love, Served Daily' Mother's Day Celebration Edsa Shangri-La, Manila Sun, May 31 12:00 PM onwards Edsa Shangri-La, Manila celebrates Mother’s Day from May 8 to 10, 2026, with dining experiences across its restaurants, complemented by a dining voucher offer with qualifying spend.

Alfred - Mother’s Day Lunch Buffet

Alfred at Makati Diamond Residences celebrates Mother’s Day with a sumptuous lunch buffet on May 10, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. The P3,200 net per person rate covers seafood and pasta dishes, grilled and baked mains, and a dedicated carving station with U.S. Angus ribeye, leg of lamb, and cochinillo, complete with assorted starters, salads, and cheese and charcuterie. The meal concludes with desserts such as baked cheesecake, strawberry mousse, macarons, brownies, ice cream, and fresh fruit. Alcoholic beverages are available as add-ons.

Alfred - Mother’s Day Lunch Buffet Alfred Sun, May 10 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM Alfred presents a Mother’s Day lunch buffet on May 10, 2026, featuring Angus ribeye, leg of lamb, cochinillo, seafood dishes, and classic desserts, served in a relaxed midday setting.

Solaire Resort: 'Her Perfect Weekend' Mother's Day Celebration

Solaire Resort delivers a refined set of Mother’s Day dining experiences on May 10, 2026. At Yakumi, guests can choose between “For the Heart of the Table,” an assisted Sunday brunch featuring sashimi, sushi, robatayaki, and teppanyaki specialties with drinks, or “A Course for Everything She Is,” a six-course set dinner by Chef Jin Suzuki spotlighting lobster and A5 wagyu. Meanwhile, Finestra’s “Brunch con Mamma” serves an assisted Italian brunch with seafood, pastas, carving station dishes, risotto, and aperitifs, with pool access included.

Solaire Resort: 'Her Perfect Weekend' Mother's Day Celebration Solaire Resort Sun, May 10
onwards Solaire Resort marks Mother’s Day with curated dining at Yakumi and Finestra, featuring Japanese tasting menus and Italian brunch experiences on May 10, 2026, designed for meaningful family celebrations.

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Manila/ Ohana/ Health & Wellness

Published: March 26, 2026

Guide to Understanding Women's Menstrual Cycle and Phases

by: The Beat Asia

Understanding Womens Menstrual Cycles and Phases

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
March 26, 2026

The female body isn’t random; it’s rhythmic — almost like clockwork that repeats and evolves each month. But the menstrual cycle is more than a routine. It’s a pattern of hormonal shifts that shape how the body feels and functions day-to-day. Across four phases, changes in estrogen and progesterone can influence energy levels, mood, skin, and overall well-being.

Yet for something so natural, it remains widely misunderstood. There’s an irony in how the female body is portrayed in the media — confusing, unpredictable, even baffling. In reality, many are still left with the same questions: what’s normal, what’s not, and when should you be concerned?

The Beat Asia breaks down each cycle of the menstrual cycle, along with expert insights from Dr. Apple Manuel, OB-GYN at Kindred PH, to help unpack what to expect, what it means, and when it’s worth paying closer attention to your menstrual health.

Cycle Basics: The 411 on the Menstrual Cycle

Menstrual pads, a tampon, and a menstrual cup

Every cycle begins the same way — but never quite feels the same. To start, here is a quick rundown of each menstrual cycle phase, going a little deeper than what most of us learned back in elementary school.

The menstrual cycle typically occurs every 20 to 35 days, though it can vary from person to person. Some cycles may run longer or shorter — and all of these can still fall within a normal range.

Menstrual Phase

This is the first phase of the cycle, usually lasting one to five days, though it can extend up to seven. During this time, the uterus sheds its lining, which results in menstrual bleeding. Hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are at their lowest — often the cause of lower energy levels and a need for more rest.

Follicular Phase

Starting on the first day of menstruation and continuing long after it ends, the follicular phase is when the body begins preparing for ovulation. Estrogen levels gradually rise, helping rebuild the uterine lining and often bringing renewed energy and focus.

Ovulatory Phase

This is the middle of the cycle, when an egg is released from the ovary and when fertility is at its peak. Common signs include increased confidence, clearer skin, or a more social and outgoing mood.

Luteal Phase

After ovulation, progesterone levels continuously rise to support and prepare for a potential pregnancy. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, these hormone levels eventually drop, bringing the cycle back to menstruation. This is when women experience symptoms like bloating, mood changes, cramps, and fatigue — often associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

When the Body Talks: PMS

Sometimes, the body speaks louder through changes that you can feel, and ones that you might question. One commonly experienced condition during the cycle is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS).

Often misunderstood and unfairly reduced to being “emotional” or “moody,” PMS is a natural set of physical and emotional symptoms that occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. As hormone levels fluctuate — particularly estrogen and progesterone — the body may respond in different ways, from fatigue and bloating to cramps, tiredness, and mood changes.

For some, these symptoms are mild and manageable. For others, they can feel more intense and disruptive, sometimes requiring pain relief or additional care and support. While PMS is common, it’s important to note that when symptoms become severe enough to interfere with daily life and relationships, they may be linked to a more serious condition called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).

According to Dr. Apple Manuel, “There is a debilitation in the day-to-day activities if the patient has PMDD. It’s not PMS, but there are risk factors that can cause PMDD, such as mental health or triggers.”

Kindred PH: The Philippines’ First Hybrid Women’s Health Clinic

Entrance to a Kindred clinic — Photo from Website/Kindred PH

At a time when women’s health is finally taking up more space in conversations around overall well-being, Kindred PH stands at the forefront of a more modern, accessible approach to care.

Dubbed as the Philippines’ first hybrid women’s health clinic, Kindred PH serves as an all-in-one destination for women’s health — blending medical expertise with a more approachable, patient-centered experience. Located in malls, its clinics offer a more open, easygoing environment that invites women to step in, ask questions, and be heard.

From consultations and vaccinations to psychological care, Kindred PH provides a range of collaborative services, while also creating a space for women to better understand their bodies — on their own terms.

Understanding Fertility, Ovulation, and “Safe Days”

For those trying to understand their cycle patterns and what their body is trying to say, the next question is often about timing.

Today, many women turn to apps like Flo, Clue, Eve, and Apple or Samsung Health to track their cycles. According to Dr. Apple Manuel, these tools can be helpful, but they’re not 100% foolproof.

“Apps can track the cycle, especially if the patient has been using the app for more than six months,” she explained. “But it’s not perfect. It can help with tracking your menses and safe days, but it’s not 100% reliable. So, it’s better to have a backup method of contraception, rather than just relying on your app.”

A person holding a phone with a period tracker app

When it comes to the idea of “safe days,” many rely on online resources to guide their understanding. While the internet has made information more accessible, it can also be inconsistent or too general to apply to everyone.

“There are inaccuracies on the Internet, and there is info that doesn’t apply to every woman,” she added. “It is better to consult with an OB-GYN on how to track it, because it’s different for all women.”

There are several ways to track ovulation and fertility, including the calendar method, body temperature monitoring, and observing physical signs such as cervical mucus changes. While these methods are helpful, they are still most effective with the guidance of a healthcare professional.

This also applies to options for contraceptives. OB-GYNs also help in determining the best and safest birth control for their patients, as it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. “As an individual, you need to consult your doctor so you can also raise questions and to know what to expect when you start any birth control method,” said Dr. Apple.

A publicity material saying that "not one-size-fits-all" — Photo from Instagram/Kindred PH

Cycle Syncing and Lifestyle

Online, cycle syncing has become a kind of wellness language of its own — encouraging women to adjust their workouts, lifestyle, and nutrition based on different phases of the menstrual cycle, often with the goal of feeling or looking their best.

But according to Dr. Apple Manuel, it’s not something you necessarily need to follow.

“To me, this is just a social media fad,” she said. “When you read the books or studies, you don’t need to tailor your workouts to a specific phase in your cycle. The recommendation is to do 30-minutes of moderate physical activity, around four to five times a week.”

This can include running, spinning, dancing, or strength training — whatever feels sustainable or manageable. Rather than changing your workout routine or activity based on your cycle, Dr. Apple emphasizes that consistency is still more important.

“Not just for your cycles or for looking good, but for your general health. To prevent diseases like hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and so on.”

About birth control and its effects on a body’s natural cycles, Dr. Apple says that it’s not a permanent change. “Hormonal birth control only works during the times you’re using it,” she said.

“Some methods, like injectables, can change your bleeding pattern because they deliver a constant level of hormones,” she explained. “They prevent ovulation by maintaining steady hormone levels in the body, so ovulation doesn’t occur. As a result, your bleeding pattern may also change.”

For birth control pills, bleeding can still occur, but it is regulated by the consistent levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body rather than the normal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle. But once you stop taking the pills, the body returns to its natural cycle.

It’s also important to note that birth control pills only work for 24 hours, which means these birth control methods change your cycle when you’re taking them, or if you have had the shot.

Caring for Women During their Cycle

Three women smiling — Photo from Website/Kindred PH

Understanding the menstrual cycle isn’t just for those who experience it — it’s for everyone to know and better support their partners, wives, friends, and the women in their lives.

For a long time, menstruation has been negatively dismissed as a “women’s problem,” leaving many to deal with discomfort quietly and without much understanding. But that narrative is slowly shifting. Conversations around women’s health are becoming more open, allowing space for empathy, awareness, and better support.

According to Dr. Apple Manuel, support doesn’t have to be complicated — it simply starts with respect.

“You don’t need to know what phase your mother, friend, or whatever female is in,” she started. “Just treat her the same way with respect, and always be mindful of what to say and how you approach her. If she’s asking for support, then provide it — but it doesn’t really matter what phase she’s in.”

At the end of the day, understanding the cycle isn’t just about biology — it’s about recognizing that menstruation is a natural part of life, and showing up with care, awareness, and respect in ways that truly matter.

To learn more about their services and packages, visit the Kindred PH website and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Check out Kindred's locations on their website.

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Manila/ Ohana/ Health & Wellness

Published: March 16, 2026

Dying of the Summer Heat? Keep These Products in Your Bag to Keep Cool

by: The Beat Asia

Keep Cool and Fresh in the Heat with These Products

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
March 16, 2026

If you’ve been out and about recently, you’ve probably noticed how quickly the Philippines shifted from cool January mornings to full-on summer heat — back to regular programming.

While we do appreciate and romanticize warm days and golden sunlight, dealing with the heat daily can be quite a nuisance, especially for adults who are always on the go. To keep the summer heat at bay, here are some products that can help provide a bit of comfort and cool.

Portable Handheld Fan

A handheld fan — JisuLife Handheld Fan Pro 1 | Photos from Instagram and Shopee/JisuLife

If you’re a commuter, then you know that this is a must-have. There is nothing more annoying than having beads of sweat rolling down your neck and forehead, while waiting in line for god knows how long under the sweltering heat. As such, having a handy portable fan is a necessity — almost like an extra limb.

Portable hand-held fans like the Jisulife Handheld Fan Pro 1 are some of the more commonly used ones and can last for a whole day or two — definitely the best choice for commuters and for those who get hot easily.

Shop the Jisulife Handheld Fan Pro 1 on Shopee and Lazada.

Cooling Powder

Cooling Powders from SNAKE BRAND | Courtesy of SNAKE BRAND

Remember when our mothers used to put baby powder on our necks and backs when we were younger? They were definitely onto something then, because now we’re back to placing powders on our necks and backs with cooling powder!

Cooling powders are precisely what adults these days need, providing fast-acting relief and a feeling of freshness from the sweltering heat and heat rashes. Powders like SNAKE BRAND’s Cooling Powders are best to keep the heat at bay, offering several varieties that are calming, skin-loving, and made for all year round.

Shop the SNAKE BRAND The Cooling Powder on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, Watsons, and more.

Cooling Wipes

If powders aren’t your thing, then the next best thing to keep the heat at bay and to get rid of the sweat while outdoors is cooling wipes! Apart from being convenient and readily available anywhere, cooling wipes also provide instant hydration that revives dry skin and is gentle enough to be used constantly. Some even have skincare advantages, with ingredients like aloe vera often in the mix.

Brands like Giggles have their own versions of Cooling Wipes that provide comfort that every commuter needs with the heat — and are even wallet-friendly!

Shop the Giggles Multi-purpose Cooling Wipes on Shopee, Lazada, Watsons, and more.

Cooling UV Sunscreen

A bottle of aerosol sunscreen — Happy Skin 360° Cooling Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 PA++++ | Photos from Website and Instagram/Happy Skin

With the heat comes the need for protection. While most are still quite hesitant to reapply sunscreens on top of their makeup, some brands have come up with ways to do just that — without the need for sunscreen sticks.

Sunscreen sprays are an incredibly convenient way of reapplying SPF while on the go, offering a lightweight, fast-absorbing, and broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. They’re all made for sensitive skin and even provide hydration on the sunniest days.

Many local brands each have their own versions of sunscreen, but one thing that can make it even better is if it has cooling properties. Happy Skin has its 360° Cooling Sunscreen Spray, offering a top-to-toe sunscreen in aerosol form that is refreshing and hydrating, with cooling technology that calms irritated and sun-stressed skin.

Shop the Happy Skin 360° Cooling Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 PA++++ on Shopee and Lazada.

Cooling Mist

Cooling mists are just like cooling wipes — but in spray format. And just like the former, cooling mists are designed to hydrate and soothe the skin in hot weather and after sun exposure. It can be used on the face and body, offering an instant refreshing feeling all around to keep cool.

Brands like Pastel have convenient, pocket-sized bottles that provide a mild, refreshing scent, with a hint of menthol to add to the coolness. Don’t worry if it stings a little; it’s just the cold hitting the first time!

Shop the Pastel Cooling Spray on Shopee, Lazada, and Watsons.

Cooling Lotion

After a hot and humid day, there’s nothing better than a cool, comforting bath — and of course, a skincare routine to boot. If you want to keep the cool and fresh feeling even at home, consider applying a cooling lotion!

Often used for muscle recovery and post-sun exposure, cooling lotions also hydrate and calm the skin, with ingredients like aloe vera, menthol, and peppermint in the mix to provide a cooling sensation on the skin.

Human Nature has the Cooling Leg & Body Cream that is natural, mineral-free, moisturizing, and refreshing, leaving the skin healthier and soothed with the invigorating cooling sensation that’s perfect to chill out with after a day in the sun.

Shop the Human Nature Cooling Leg & Body Cream on Shopee, Lazada, and Watsons.

Cooling Setting Powder

A compact loose setting powder with a light blue top — Happy Skin Fresh Morning Dew Aqua Cooling Setting Powder | Photos from Instagram/Happy Skin

Keeping the cool isn’t limited to hand-held items, body mists, or creams! Recently, more beauty brands in the country have been formulating makeup products that have cooling effects and are great to use for the country’s tropical climate.

For those who wear makeup, we suggest replacing your regular powders with the Happy Skin Fresh Morning Dew Aqua Cooling Setting Powder, made with a unique 50% water and powder blend that provides a cool and refreshing sensation upon application, and finishes semi-matte on the skin.

The product is also infused with skin-caring ingredients like Cica, Hyaluronic Acid, and an Anti-Blue Light Technology that deflects damaging light from digital devices.

Shop the Happy Skin Fresh Morning Dew Aqua Cooling Setting Powder on the website, Shopee, and Lazada.

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Manila/ Ohana/ Health & Wellness

Published: February 26, 2026

Inclusive Gyms and Sports Clubs to Meet Your Match

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
February 26, 2026

When we think of gyms or sports clubs, we often associate them with male-dominated spaces. With logos and branding usually geared toward a masculine audience, it is not hard to see why. For women and LGBTQ+ individuals, such traditional environments may feel unwelcoming or intimidating. Fortunately, the world is gradually changing, even within the fitness industry. The Philippines, in particular, is seeing more spaces that actively prioritize inclusivity and representation. After all, we all just want to move, work out, and feel strong — free of judgment or discrimination.

Wellness and health have no gender, no status, and no limitations; they’re for everyone. And if you haven’t been sleeping under a rock, you know that "Heated Rivalry" is almost everyone’s latest favorite. The series tells a compelling story, blending the high stakes of professional sports with heartfelt queer romance. It also serves as a reminder that sports aren’t just for men (or straight men, as it turns out). With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most inclusive gyms and sports clubs in the country.

Kinetix Lab

Two women are in a gym with a wooden wall and clock. One is pushing a sled, appearing focused, while the other watches attentively — Photo from Instagram/Kinetix Lab

Kinetix Lab is a standout name in the fitness community for fostering an inclusive training environment, breaking stereotypes surrounding traditional gym culture. It supports all individuals, all with one goal in mind: to become stronger and healthier.

Recognizing that each individual has specific preferences when it comes to fitness, personalized training is what Kinetix Lab specializes in, catering to each client’s fitness goals. They also provide a supportive environment, complete with expert coaches who have relevant experience. They typically offer programs such as body recomposition, women’s health, corporate fitness, pre- and post-natal fitness, and athletic training.

To become a member, visit their website, select the "Book a Visit" option, and indicate your preferred branch. You can also follow them on Instagram for more updates and information.

Locations and Operating Hours:

UP Town Center: Level 2, Phase 1, U.P Town Center

Mondays to Fridays, from 6 AM to 9 PM; Saturdays to Sundays, from 8 AM to 9 PM

The Podium: 4th Floor, The Podium, Ortigas Business District, Mandaluyong

Mondays to Fridays, from 6 AM to 10 PM; Saturdays to Sundays, from 8 AM to 10 PM

One Ayala: L3 Junior Anchor, One Ayala Mall, Ayala Avenue, Makati City

Mondays to Thursdays, from 6 AM to 9 PM; Fridays, from 6 AM to 10 PM; and Saturdays to Sundays, from 8 AM to 10 PM

adidas Runners Manila

A community-based running group, adidas Runners Manila is a welcoming running group open to everyone. Led by Captain Nikki Torres, the group meets weekly, primarily at Adidas Two Parkade in Bonifacio Global City (with schedules occasionally updated on their platforms). In a sports scene that can still feel intimidating for many women and queer individuals, this community serves as a safe space for runners seeking inclusivity and support, where each member can find their tribe and feel secure in a club that’s encouraging, diverse, and judgment-free.

Who knows, you may even find your match (or a little healthy competition), à la Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, but for runners. To join the community, download the adidas Running: Run Tracker app on the App Store or Google Play Store, then sign up. From there, head to the “Community” section and select "adidas Runners Manila," where you can also check for updates on upcoming events.

You may also visit the Adidas Philippines website for more information on how to join, as well as their Facebook group.

Kerry Sports Manila

Smiling woman in a dimly lit fitness class rides a stationary bike — Photo from Instagram/Kerry Sports Manila

A person in a blue tank top dribbles a basketball on an indoor court — Photo from Website/Kerry Sports Manila

Kerry Sports Manila is a premium lifestyle hub where every fitness goal and journey is welcome. With over 8,000 square metres of fitness and recreational facilities, this go-to fitness destination is truly a “Find Your Space” haven for individuals seeking balance, strength, and a sense of community.

Everyone, regardless of fitness level or personal interests, is welcome. For gym operation hours, facilities, and information on how to become a member, you may refer to their website. You may also check out their Instagram page for other updates.

Location: Level 5 and 6, Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, 30th St. Cor. 5th Ave., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig 1634

RUNRIO Pride Run

Runners burst from the starting line at the Pride Run 2023 under a colorful arch amid a shower of confetti — Photo from Facebook/RUNRIO Pride Run

It couldn’t be more unapologetically gay than a run hosted annually — during Pride Month, no less. The RUNRIO Pride Run is an annual fun run that aims to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community while recognizing their ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.

The event brings together members of the community, allies, and advocates, all united in a vibrant and high-energy celebration of all things love and pride. And it’s more than just a race, as it symbolizes solidarity and the continued push for equal rights. It truly is one of the most colorful (if not the most colorful) running events in the country.

For updates on this year’s Pride Run, you may refer to their Instagram and Facebook pages.

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Manila/ Ohana/ Relationships

Published: February 04, 2026

6 Fun Ways to Spend Galentine’s Day with Your Girlfriends

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Bumi and Ashe/Website

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
February 04, 2026

Valentine’s Day may get all the spotlight this February, but let’s not forget its equally iconic sister celebration: Galentine’s Day. Coined as a day to honor platonic love, Galentine’s is all about celebrating the women who show up for you: your constants, your group chat lifelines, and your ride-or-die girls. As the season of love rolls in, it’s a gentle reminder that romance isn’t the only relationship worth celebrating.

So before Feb. 14 fills up with dinner dates and rose bouquets, carve out Feb. 13 for something just as special. From indulgent brunches to feel-good pampering and cozy catch-ups around the city, here’s how you and your girlfriends can celebrate Galentine’s Day in Manila, no plus-ones required!

Catch Up Over Brunch

A photo of the Wildfour Restaurant facade — Photo from Facebook/Wildflour Restaurant

This year, Feb. 13 falls on a Friday, which means most of your girlfriends will be juggling work and errands. But that just makes it the perfect opportunity to carve out a little time to slow down together. And what better way to reconnect after a busy week than over a delicious brunch spread, good coffee, and stories worth savoring?

Some fantastic brunch spots to try around the city include Wildflour Cafe + Bakery, which offers a fantastic spread combining European pastries with Filipino favorites, such as the Croque Madame, Chorizo and Gambas, Blueberry and Ricotta Cheese Pancakes, Adobo Fried Rice, and the hearty Filipino Breakfast plate. They also have a wide selection of artisanal breads, cakes, and other confections that will surely add a lot more sweetness to your girl’s brunch out.

Follow Wildflour Restaurant on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: Wildflour Restaurant has several locations around Manila, including in BGC, Greenhills, Rockwell, The Podium, and Alabang. You can view their list of branches here.

Relax and Unwind with a Spa Retreat

A photo of the private suite with jacuzzi — Photo from Website/City of Dreams Manila

After weeks of deadlines, long commutes, and barely-there sleep, Galentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in a little self-care. A spa retreat lets you and your girlfriends trade endless notifications for calming scents, hushed conversations, and much-needed moments of rest. There’s nothing quite like unwinding side by side and letting the stress melt away.

Book a group massage, enjoy a facial session, or spend the afternoon moving between steam rooms and relaxation lounges. Many spas around Manila offer curated packages that make it easy to spend a few unrushed hours together. Nüwa Spa, for example, offers its signature suite experiences, which can be customized to your needs. It provides you with a private spa suite complete with an en-suite jacuzzi. These experiences start from P8,999 and include an indulgent milk bath, body polish, an aromatherapy massage, as well as healthy light meals that you can snack on.

They also have other services, from traditional Philippine Hilot massages, salon services, and facials. It’s the kind of shared experience that leaves everyone lighter, glowier, and more relaxed. You can check their full service menu here.

For reservations, contact +63 2800 8080. Follow Nüwa Hotel on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: Level 1, Nüwa Hotel, City of Dreams Manila, Asean Ave. cor. Roxas Blvd. Entertainment City, Parañaque City

Get Creative with a Craft Workshop

A group of girls in a pottery workshop — Photo from Website/Bumi and Ashe

If your circle loves creating, a craft workshop is a perfect way to celebrate Galentine’s Day.

There’s something wonderfully grounding about learning a new skill together. Think laughter over shared mistakes, the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands, and photos that capture the joy of the moment. Pottery classes are especially great for groups. It encourages conversation, playfulness, and a bit of friendly competition, like comparing whose mug turned out the cutest. Bumi and Ashe offers a variety of pottery workshops from wheel throwing to mug-making that are perfect for beginners.

This February, they’re even offering a special Galentine’s Day workshop package — a private experience where you can unwind, learn, and get your hands busy with your girlfriends. Not only does this package offer a pottery workshop, but you can also avail jewelry-making or rug tufting. The experience is priced at P2,950 per person and requires a minimum of 4 participants. You can book here.

For those who want a splash of color and creativity, try a painting class at Sip & Gogh. Think vibrant canvases, glasses raised, and step-by-step guidance from local artists as you bring your imagination to life. Whether you’re painting florals, cityscapes, or abstract designs, Sip & Gogh makes it easy and fun for beginners and seasoned painters alike. Open sessions start at P1,400 per person. You can book here.

Follow Bumi & Ashe on Instagram.

Follow Sip and Gogh on Facebook and Instagram.

Locations:

Bumi & Ashe Makati Branch: 7230 Malugay, Makati, 1209 Kalakhang Maynila (next to The Zone).
Bumi & Ashe Cubao Branch: 59a Cubao Expo Driveway, Cubao, Quezon City.
Sip and Gogh Century Mall: Century City, Kalayaan Ave. Salamanca St., Poblacion, Makati City.

Join a Food Crawl in Binondo

A photo of food spots in Chinatown Binondo — Photo from Website/Klook

They say food is a love language, and there’s no better place to speak it fluently than Binondo. With Chinese New Year falling on Feb. 17, the weekend before becomes the perfect time to gather your girlfriends and explore Manila’s oldest Chinatown, where traditions, flavors, and shared plates bring people closer together.

A Binondo food crawl is ideal for Galentine’s Day because it’s casual, joyful, and meant to be experienced as a group. All you need to do is come hungry, wear comfy shoes, and let the food (and your girls) lead the way! Hop from one beloved eatery to another, splitting orders of dumplings, noodles, hopia, and crispy lumpia, all while weaving through bustling streets filled with festive energy. With the city gearing up for the Lunar New Year, Binondo feels especially alive, making it the perfect backdrop for celebrating friendships.

You can book a tour on Klook here.

Location: Archdiocesan Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament - Santa Cruz, Plaza Sta. Cruz, Sta. Cruz, Manila City.

Get Lost in a Museum

A photo of an immersive art space — Photo from Website/Digital National Art Museum

If you’re looking for a Galentine’s Day plan that’s both meaningful and Instagram-worthy, consider spending the day exploring a museum together.

For something a little different, check out the Digital National Art Museum, which is an immersive space that blends art, light, and technology. With interactive installations, projected visuals, and dreamy digital landscapes, it offers a refreshing twist on the usual museum visit and plenty of great photo opportunities for your group!

Tickets are available on the Manila Ocean Park website (P670) and on Klook. You can also upgrade your passes to include a Tea Bar experience for P770.

Follow the Digital National Art Museum on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: Manila Ocean Park, Quirino Grandstand, Luneta, Manila City.

Go on a Daytime Adventure

A photo of Old Manila — Photo from Website/Klook

All those group trip ideas sitting in your group chat? This is your sign to finally make one of them happen!

Group trips don’t have to stay as plans that never make it past the chat, and they don’t have to involve long leaves or overnight stays either. You can start by booking half-day tours or local day trips around Manila.

From walking tours around Intramuros to evenscenic city escapes just a short drive away, day tours make it simple to experience something new together without the pressure of planning a full getaway. It’s all the fun of traveling — the shared discoveries, spontaneous photos, and inside jokes, minus the packing stress. Sometimes, all it takes is a few hours away from the everyday to turn “we should do this someday” into “remember when we did?”

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Manila/ The List/ What's On

Published: February 02, 2026

Love in the Lounge: Manila’s Most Romantic Hotel Lobbies for Lover's Day

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Shangri-La, Makati/Website

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
February 02, 2026

Valentine’s dates don’t always have to mean dressing up for a white-tablecloth dinner or fighting for reservations at the hottest restaurant in town. Romance can be elegant, chill, or downright swoon-worthy, and sometimes all it takes is a quiet afternoon to reconnect over tea, or a later meetup at a chic hotel lobby lounge where cocktails flow, the lights are low, and you can sneak in a few kisses between conversations.

This Valentine’s season, hotel lobbies in Manila are seriously bringing their A-game. Think live piano music, orchestral performances during afternoon tea, intimate cocktail corners, and lounges that feel made for lingering just a little longer with your person. Whether you’re going for a laid-back daytime date or a cozy evening with your significant other, these hotel lobbies make it easy to slow down, enjoy the moment, and just be together.

The Lobby at The Peninsula Manila

A photo of The Peninsula Manila Lobby — Photo from Website/The Peninsula Manila

We’re starting this list with one of the most iconic hotel lobbies in the city, known for its classic afternoon tea with live piano music through the afternoon and a string-jazz ensemble in the evenings over a candle-lit ambiance.

The Lobby has been a favorite meeting place for foreign guests and local residents since it opened in 1976, and with its majestic design and luxurious atmosphere, it’s the perfect venue if you want to treat your loved ones to something special.

On Feb. 14, 2026, couples can enjoy a four-course romantic dinner set featuring delicious dishes curated by Chef Jobellyn Barbasa. Highlights include the Yellowfin Tuna Tartare, the Palawan Lobster “Gratiné,” the Roasted Wagyu Beef Tenderloin, and a sweet Rose–Lychee Mousse Heart made with a raspberry jelly center and white chocolate glaze — the perfect end to a romantic evening with your lover.

Guests booking a dinner table on Valentine’s Day will also enjoy an inspiring musical performance by the acclaimed Battig Chamber Singers and Peninsula Strings, creating a truly memorable night filled with romance and music.

Dinner is served from 6:30 PM to 11 PM, and is priced at P5,990 per person.

The Peninsula Boutique is also putting up a pop-up kiosk at The Lobby, where you’ll find a display of luxurious chocolate hearts, love-inspired cakes, and bouquets of flowers to gift your loved ones this season.

Follow The Peninsula Manila on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram.

Location: The Peninsula Manila, Corner of Ayala and Makati Avenues, Makati City

Lobby Lounge at Makati Shangri-La

A photo of the Steeped in Love Afternoon Tea set — Photo from Website/Shangri-La, Makati

Elegant and sophisticated, the Lobby Lounge at Makati Shangri-La has tea service, snacks, and drinks. Weekends often feature live string or piano music during teatime hours, creating a romantic and relaxed ambience perfect for daytime dates.

This February, couples can enjoy their “Steeped in Love Afternoon Tea,” a Valentine's-themed afternoon tea set for two. The set is priced at P2,350 and is available every Friday to Sunday from 2 PM to 5 PM. You shouldn’t also miss their cocktail of the month — "Lovers’ Kiss,” available for the whole month of February for P480++.

For bookings, email dining.makati@shangri-la.com or call +63 28813 8888.

Follow Makati Shangri-La on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: Makati Shangri-La, Ayala Avenue Corner Makati Avenue 4/F, Makati City

High Street Lounge at Shangri-La, The Fort

A photo of an afternoon tea set — Photo from Facebook/Shangri-La, The Fort

High Street Lounge at Shangri-La The Fort is ideal for couples who want a Valentine’s date that feels stylish but not overly formal. With its spacious layout, plush seating, and relaxed lounge atmosphere, it works well for afternoon catch-ups that naturally stretch into early evening drinks.

For Valentine’s Day, the lounge is offering a special Afternoon Tea set for two, complete with sweet and savory bites and Valentine-themed cocktails, making it perfect for a laid-back yet romantic daytime date. This set is priced at P3,250 and is available from Feb. 6 to 15, 2026.

If you’re planning to turn things into a proper dinner date, right next door is the High Street Café, hosting a Valentine’s Day dinner buffet on Feb. 14. Guests can enjoy an indulgent international spread that’s great for couples who love variety and a lively dining experience. You can take your partner for a relaxing lunch for P2,300 per person or a romantic dinner for P3,800 per person, which also includes a Valentine’s cocktail.

Whether you’re starting with cocktails in the lounge or ending the night over a generous buffet, Valentine’s at Shangri-La The Fort is sure to make hearts melt. For reservations, email eats.slfm@shangri-la.com or call +63 917536 3287.

Follow Shangri-La, The Fort on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: Shangri-La The Fort, 30th Street corner 5th Avenue, Taguig City.

The Manila Hotel Lobby Lounge

The Lobby Lounge at The Manila Hotel offers a kind of old-world romance that feels instantly comforting and nostalgic. With its grand chandeliers, plush seating, and classic interiors, the space feels timeless and is perfect for couples who love a slower, more intimate kind of date. Soft live piano music often fills the lobby, making it ideal for lingering conversations over tea, coffee, or cocktails.

For Valentine’s, you and your partner can enjoy a classic Afternoon High Tea experience for two featuring a delightful selection of finely crafted pastries, savory bites, and sweet treats that go really well with premium teas. This set is priced at P1,888 and available from 11 AM to 6 PM.

For reservations, email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com or call +63 285270011, +63 25301500, or +63 9088761912.

Follow the Manila Hotel on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram.

Location: Manila Hotel, One Rizal Park, Manila City

The C Lounge at Conrad Manila Hotel

C Lounge at Conrad Manila is a sleek and stylish spot with a modern, sophisticated vibe, perfect for couples who love romance with a view. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook Manila Bay, letting in natural light during the day and city lights at night, creating a dreamy backdrop for any date. Soft live music, from piano to acoustic sets, complements the chic interiors and adds a relaxed, intimate feel. It’s perfect for afternoon or early evening dates, whether you’re easing into Valentine’s Day over a luxurious tea set or enjoying cocktails as the sun sets.

This romantic season, Conrad Manila is offering a Valentine’s themed set menu, which will be offered on the veranda on Feb. 13 to 15, 2026, from 6 PM to 9 PM. The dinner includes a bottle of wine, a bouquet, a box of pralines, and Conrad’s signature Carey plush toy. The dinner is available for P15,000++ per couple, but after Feb. 15, there is a minimum spend of P20,000++ per veranda table as it provides a view of the Pyromusical competition.

If you and your significant other are in the mood for some romantic drinks, you can spend time savoring their strawberry-inspired afternoon tea from 2 PM to 6 PM, priced at P3,288++ per set. The Afternoon Tea features a selection of sweet pastries, savory sandwiches, and their signature seared scallops with strawberry gazpacho.

Whether you’re planning a casual meet-up or a full romantic lounge experience, C Lounge provides a setting that’s modern, intimate, and effortlessly elegant.

For bookings, email conradmanila@conradhotels.com or call +632 8833 9999.

Follow Conrad Manila on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: Conrad Manila, Seaside Boulevard, Corner Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

The Writers Bar at Raffles Makati

A photo of cocktails and cold-cuts sampler — Photo from Website/Raffles Makati

This refined and intimate lounge feels like stepping into a cozy library with its rich wood tones, soft lighting, and the kind of calm energy that makes time slow down. The ambiance is elegant yet relaxed, making it great for evening dates or late‑night meetups where the star of the show is good conversation and handcrafted drinks.

This spot is perfect for couples who want something a bit different from the typical dinner scene. During the day, you can enjoy classic Heritage Afternoon Tea (P3,200 for two) with live piano or violin performances. The set includes savory delights, sweet delicacies, all paired well with coffee or tea.

In the evenings, the experience gets even more special with the “Curator’s Hour,” a curated wine pairing experience featuring unlimited servings of tea-based cocktails, as well as red, white, and sparkling wines paired with a cold‑cuts and cheese sampler platter. It’s a relaxed but elevated way to enjoy drinks together before or after your Valentine’s plans. This experience is priced at P3,200 per person and is available daily from 7 PM to 9 PM.

You can reserve your tables here.

Follow Raffles Makati on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: Raffles Makati, 1 Raffles Drive, Makati Avenue, Makati City

Lobby Lounge at Diamond Hotel Philippines

A photo of the Lobby Lounge at the Diamond Hotel — Photo from Website/Diamond Hotel Philippines

Lobby Lounge at the Diamond Hotel is a cozy, stylish spot perfect for couples who want to relax and reconnect. With comfy seating, soft lighting, and views of Manila Bay, it’s great for afternoon coffee, casual chats, or unwinding with a cocktail.

For Valentine’s Day, the Lobby Lounge steps it up with a special four-course dinner for two, paired with wine and live music. It’s perfect if you want a romantic night without the stuffiness of a formal restaurant. The dinner set is priced at P4,640 per person.

There are also sweet treats and themed desserts you can share or take home to extend the celebration. Whether you’re starting with coffee or ending with cocktails, the Lobby Lounge at Diamond Hotel gives couples a warm, relaxed, and intimate vibe that makes Valentine’s feel effortless and memorable.

You can book your tables here.

Follow Diamond Hotel Philippines on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.

Location: Diamond Hotel, Corner Roxas Boulevard & J Quintos Street, Manila City

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Manila/ Ohana/ Family

Published: February 02, 2026

From Tikoy to Red Outfits: Chinese New Year Traditions Filipinos Follow

by: The Beat Asia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
February 02, 2026

The connection between Chinese and Filipino communities dates back centuries, with trade and migration allowing traditions from both cultures to naturally blend. This shared history is most visible in Binondo, Manila’s Chinatown, recognized as the oldest Chinatown in the world. Over time, Chinese New Year customs have become part of Filipino life, practiced not just within the Chinese-Filipino community but in households across the country.

Today, many Filipinos continue to observe these traditions and superstitions in hopes of attracting good luck, prosperity, and a fresh start. Here are some Chinese New Year practices Filipinos still follow to welcome the new year.

Cleaning the House Before Chinese New Year

A photo of a couple of brooms — Photo from Pexels/Website

Many Filipino families clean their homes thoroughly before the Chinese New Year begins. The belief is that cleaning clears out bad luck from the past year.

However, once New Year’s Day arrives, cleaning is avoided to prevent luck from being swept away. The act of sweeping, in particular, is associated with sweeping wealth away.

Something closely tied to pre-holiday cleaning is opening doors and windows, which is believed to allow good luck and prosperity to enter one’s home, especially at the start of the new year.

Watching Lion and Dragon Dances for Good Luck

A photo of lion and dragon dancers in the Philippines — Photo from Facebook/Philippine FeyHang Dragon and Lion Dance Group

Lion and dragon dances are believed to ward off evil spirits and attract prosperity. This is one tradition many Filipinos continue to uphold, often visiting establishments hosting these performances.

Many lion and dragon dance shows happen around Chinese NewYear’s Day or during the week leading up to it. Binondo’s Ongpin Street and the area around Lucky Chinatown Mall host performances throughout the day.

Other establishments, such as hotels and malls, also host this tradition as part of their Lunar New Year celebrations. The Peninsula Manila, for one, is welcoming the Year of the Horse with a Lion and Dragon dance performance at The Lobby on Feb. 17, 2026. This is accompanied by Chinese New Year-themed buffets and set menus, as well as specialty gift items available at their restaurants and boutique.

Similarly, shopping destinations like The Podium, Greenhills Mall, and Estancia will also have mall-wide performances on the day, as well as Instagram-worthy spots and other activities like drum performances, martial arts competitions, and mahjong nights.

The Peninsula Manila - Auspicious Beginnings of the Chinese New Year The Peninsula Manila Sun, March 1 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM Welcome the Chinese New Year at The Peninsula Manila with lion and dragon dances, Lo Hei prosperity rituals, dining sets, lavish buffets, and auspicious treats.

Feasting with Family and Serving Lucky Foods

A photo of a noodle dish — Photo from Website/The Peninsula Manila

Sharing a meal with family is a tradition both Chinese and Filipino cultures hold dear, and this becomes even more meaningful during the Chinese New Year. Filipino households often join in the Chinese custom of serving “lucky foods” or dishes that symbolize prosperity, health, and harmony for the year ahead.

Some of the most common dishes include noodles, which symbolize long life and are served uncut to preserve the “length” of life; Fish, representing abundance and served whole to ensure completeness; Tikoy (glutinous rice cake), which symbolizes unity and harmony; Spring rolls for wealth and prosperity; and Oranges for luck and good fortune.

For Filipino families celebrating Chinese New Year, these dishes are more than just food — they’re a shared experience, a way to bond with relatives over familiar tastes while honoring centuries-old traditions. Many households will intentionally prepare these foods, while some will book a table at a fancy restaurant to celebrate. Most hotels offer Chinese New Year-themed buffets or lunch and dinner set menus that are perfect for families and big groups.

At Belmont Manila, diners can celebrate Chinese New Year with the Emperor’s Set Menu (P2,026) at Café Belmont, a carefully curated feast designed to usher in good fortune. Starting Feb. 7, the hotel also kicks off the Lucky Tikoy Festival, featuring unique flavors such as Ube, Peach Mango, and Salted Egg, giving families and friends a delicious way to welcome the new year.

Giving and Receiving Red Envelopes (Ang Pao)

A photo of a woman holding red envelopes

Red envelopes filled with money are given as symbols of luck and prosperity. While traditionally given by elders, many Filipino families have adapted the practice to include godchildren, nieces, nephews, and even close friends.

When giving or receiving an ang pao, it’s common to say “Gong Xi Fa Cai,” a Cantonese greeting that literally wishes someone to “grow wealth,” or to have more money and prosperity in the coming year.

Gift giving is a common practice among Filipinos during this time, and while red envelopes are the most popular gifts, people also give tikoy to symbolize strengthening relationships and hampers to share blessings.

Hotel chains like the Shangri-La offer lavish hampers packed with exclusive gifts and delightful goodies. The Abundance Handbag Box (P3,188) at Shangri-La The Fort is a simple but lovely gift you can send to your loved ones. It features six pieces of Nian Gao of varying flavors, including black sesame and walnut, mango and peach gum, and purple sweet potato.

Makati Shangri-La is also offering an Abundance Hamper (P8,888) filled with festive favorites such as homemade egg yolk pastries, fortune cookies, fish-shaped rice cakes, Chinese tea, and more. You can browse more of their offerings here.

Wearing Red for Luck and Protection

A photo of models wearing red, mandarin collared tops — Photo from Facebook/Love, Bonito

Red is considered a powerful color during the Chinese New Year, believed to attract good fortune and ward off negative energy. For many Filipinos, wearing red clothing or accessories is more than just a nod to tradition. It’s a way to carry luck with them throughout the year, whether they’re attending celebrations, visiting family, or simply going about their day.

Fashion brands often embrace this tradition by releasing special Chinese New Year collections or capsule lines. Globally, Dr. Martens has swapped its iconic yellow stitching for bold red during the holiday, while luxury labels like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Dior roll out CNY-inspired pieces, from limited-edition handbags to festive footwear.

Singaporean brand Love, Bonito, recently released a Lunar New Year collection featuring festive silhouettes, Mandarin collars, and red or gold details. These capsule pieces make it easy for Filipinos to honor tradition while staying stylish, proving that red isn’t just symbolic… It’s a statement.

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Meet the UP Graduates Behind BiDaKidney, a Home Dialysis Device

BiDaKidney came out of your exposure to the realities of dialysis care in public healthcare settings. What made you realize this was a problem you wanted to solve?

When you first studied the dialysis process, which pain points stood out immediately? And which ones revealed themselves as you progressed?

The machine is meant to make dialysis easier not only for patients but also for family members and caregivers. How much did the caregiver experience influence the design?

For users who have little to no medical training, how is your device designed to cater to their capabilities?

You described BiDaKidney as a low-cost machine. What did "low-cost" mean to you during development?

Were you working toward a particular price point?

How difficult is it to keep a medical device affordable without compromising reliability, safety, or durability?

One of the planned improvements is battery-powered operation, specifically because of local power interruptions. What were the local realities here that affected your design decision?

Do you think medical technologies designed in wealthier nations sometimes overlook certain everyday realities and lived experiences of those in third-world countries?

How do you factor in quality of life when you're designing an engineering solution?

You developed BiDaKidney while still at the university level, but you're now talking about doing more. What has been the biggest shift in mindset as the project moves to becoming a medical product?

What parts of that transition feel the most daunting?

What have you had to learn that engineering school didn't necessarily prepare you for?

When you look at the scale of kidney disease in the country, where do you think engineering and design can realistically make the biggest difference?

Is the more urgent problem affordability, access, decentralizing treatment, reducing caregiver burden, or something else?

Where do you think technology alone reaches its limit?

Winning the James Dyson Award gives you funding to continue developing BiDaKidney. What are the biggest challenges ahead of you?

In line with that, how long do you think it will take to bring BiDaKidney to the market? Are you looking for additional support?

Beyond BiDaKidney, do you see yourselves continuing to work in healthcare engineering?

What were your initial thoughts when you were announced as the James Dyson Award winners?

What are your hopes and expectations with BiDaKidney and with your careers?

And what are you looking forward to as you advance to the international stage of the Dyson Award?

This Week's Event In Manila View more

This Week's Event In Manila

Stephanie Zubiri on the Power of Healing, Love, and Lifting Others Up

You've spoken about battling depression, postpartum depression, and anxiety. Many women carry these and suffer in silence; what finally made you decide to speak about it openly?

Women are often expected to keep giving. How did you learn the difference between generosity and giving too much of yourself?

You've said that we can't pour from an empty cup. For women who feel guilty about choosing themselves, what would you want them to understand about self-love and self-preservation?

There's often pressure to "bounce back" after difficult or complex life transitions. What did healing actually look like for you in practice?

After turning 40, you've spoken about learning to "hold space" for your body even on the days you don't feel your best. In a world that's constantly telling women to look younger or more put-together, what does self-love look like in your daily life?

You've said that "We only attract the kind of relationships that we think we deserve." How did you begin to believe you deserved more?

You turned to Jungian therapy, yoga, Reiki, and meditation as pillars of your healing. For women who are just starting their journey, where would you suggest they begin?

Your work today seems rooted in connection and creating spaces for women to feel seen. What made you realize that community, not independence alone, was an important part of healing?

Soulful Feasts has grown into more than a podcast. It's become a space for women to reconnect with themselves. What kind of listener did you have in mind when you first created it?

What conversations have surprised or changed you the most since starting it?

Are there moments in your retreats and workshops that exemplify this energy of women gathering to reflect and heal together?

If you could sit across from a woman who is, right now, in the place you were at your lowest, what would you say to her?

You've said that "everything will happen in its own good time." And that there's no need to force or struggle, just flow. For the woman reading this who feels like she's running out of time to put herself back together, what's the one thing you want her to walk away believing?

You've worn so many hats over the years. Looking back, which version of yourself feels the most authentic today, and why?

You've built a life that integrates spirituality, storytelling, motherhood, and advocacy. What does the next chapter of your story look like?

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