Valentine's Day in Manila: Free & Budget-Friendly Date Ideas You’ll Love

Your furbabies might be due for a shopping spree!

Heads up, fur parents and beloved hoomans! Spectrum Fair Manila is holding its very first Pawsome Pet Fair of 2025, this Apr. 12 to 13, 2025, at Paseo de Roxas, Makati City.

From 8 AM to 8 PM, you can enjoy over 50 of the finest treats, toys, and goodies for you, your pets, and more at this pet fair! There’s bound to be goodies for everyone — for our furry friends, fellow pet owners, and animal lovers! You can even just come along to see all the cute pets!

And who knows, you might even bring home a cute kitty from the Cats of Legaspi Village adoption booth! 

Come on and eat, shop, and lounge about while listening to some smooth tunes this weekend! 

Here is the list of merchants for the upcoming Pawsome Pet Fair this weekend: 

Pets & Lifestyle

• Ruff Treats
• Pupsicles
• The Pet Club
• Posh Pets
• Better Paws
• Chuyo Paws
• Treatos by Joey
• The Moon Project
• Trademark Pets
• XKins
• Ruffsack PH
• Pretty Puppy and Co.
• Primitive Pack
• Little Lion Treats
• Pet Friendly’s
• Pupperwear
• Haru Haru
• Le Bubu Pets
• Isla Marikit
• Happy Pet Products
• Gentle Paws
• Happy Hounds
• Gentle Walker
• Yobear & Co.
• Spoiled Pets Club
• Nood
• Happy Life Organics
• Fil Dog Scarf
• Club Thread
• Dear Pets
• Doggy Potion
• Buddy Duggy
• Clifford & Felix
• Cats of Legaspi Village
• Bonapetreat
• Boop MNL
• Bowhouse
• PB & J Photo Booth

Food & Drinks

• Hungry Homies
• Old Boy Bakery
• Oola Halo
• The Good Poison
• Yello Soft Serve
• Taiwan Fried Bao
• Carlos’ Bakery
• Sweet Kamote
• Craft Pulp MNL
• Cha Bar
• Tapakasarap
• Egg Tarts Manila
• WKND Coffee
• The Blue Apron
• JD’s Takoyaki
• Frocho MNL
• Crave It
• Stirreras
• Rooftop Kitchen
• Happy Brew Kombucha
• Fabio’s Sausage and Pasta Bar

Join in the paw-ty and treat your furbabies to something good! Follow Spectrum Fair Manila on their Facebook and Instagram pages for more events and updates!

Location: Paseo de Roxas, Makati City

Time: 8 AM to 8 PM

Admission: Free

With violent earthquakes wreaking havoc across Southeast Asia recently, discussions about “The Big One” have resurfaced online, instigating worry among netizens — specifically among Filipinos, as the country is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it vulnerable to powerful earthquakes. 

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) recently conducted a study that projects that a 7.2-magnitude earthquake along the West Valley Fault could happen in our lifetime. This 100-kilometer-long active fault line runs along several provinces, such as Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna, and Cavite, including populated cities within Metro Manila. 

“The Big One” is projected to cause widespread destruction, including the collapse of at least 168,000 buildings, and claim a total of 50,000 lives. 

However, PHIVOLCS continues to remind the public that these are not predictions but scientific projections or possible scenarios, as there is no technology that could accurately predict when or where an earthquake will happen. They shared in a post that people should be discerning with the information they read online and monitor the official pages of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for developments and updates.

If you’re unsure what to do should a tragedy like this hit your area, don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! By taking the right steps before, during, and after an earthquake, you can minimize risks and protect yourself and your loved ones. 

What to Do Before

1. Discern your location and create an emergency plan

It’s important to know where your home is located and determine whether or not it’s situated along an active fault or is prone to collapse. We recommend doing a hazard assessment via HazardHunter PH, which will analyze if your location is prone to seismic, volcanic, or hydrometeorologic hazards. You can also use the PHIVOLCS self-check tool, “How Safe is My House?" mobile application, to evaluate the safety of your home from earthquakes. You can download it for free on the App Store.

It's also important to know your emergency exit routes and safe spaces. If you’re near the water, know where the highest point is in your area. Most properties, local government units (LGUs), and barangays have disaster preparedness plans, so make sure to familiarize yourself with them and know your designated evacuation sites. 

2. Locate and learn to use disaster essentials

Learn how to turn off the gas, electricity, and water in your home, and know where the first aid kit, fire extinguishers, alarms, and communication devices are stashed. 

3. Prepare an emergency supply kit

PHIVOLCS suggests preparing an emergency supply kit that would last around three days (72 hours). Make sure this bag is stashed in an accessible area so you can easily grab it and go should an earthquake occur. Items you should include in your emergency pack are:

• First aid kit
• Food
• Bottled water
• Flashlight and spare batteries
• Battery-operated radio
• Whistle
• Knife
• Candles and matches, lighter
• Blankets, spare clothes, and shoes
• Rope (at least 7 meters)
• Toiletries
• Permanent marker, pen, and paper
• Emergency contact information
• Important documents
• Cash
• Medication (for those with special needs)
• Baby food (if necessary)

4. Earthquake-proof your home

Violent quakes will undoubtedly move things around. Secure heavy furniture to the walls, such as cabinets, bookshelves, and large appliances. It’s also helpful to ensure that electrical outlets and gas lines are properly maintained to prevent sparking fires during an earthquake. 

5. Monitor developments and stay updated

Catch real-time updates on seismic activities by following PHIVOLCS on Facebook and X (Formerly Twitter). You can also follow credible news sources online to stay informed, as well as government agencies that often release hazard maps and preparedness guidelines.  

What to Do During

If you’re indoors when an earthquake occurs, remain calm and stay where you are. Perform the DUCK/DROP, COVER, and HOLD technique. Drop down and take cover under a sturdy table. If this is unavailable, protect your head and neck until the shaking stops. Make sure to steer clear of hanging and heavy furniture such as chandeliers and shelves, and stay away from windows, mirrors, or anything that could fall and shatter. 

If you’re outside, locate the closest open space free from buildings, powerlines, trees, or anything that could collapse. If you’re driving at the time of the earthquake, park to the side and evacuate the car. Steer clear of mountainsides as they could corrode, and don’t attempt to cross bridges, overpasses, or flyovers. 

If you’re near the sea, find a high point and move as far away as you can from the water, for powerful quakes could cause tsunamis. Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings until the tremors cease. Always remember that you’re safety is a priority. Leave your belongings behind and ensure you get to the evacuation sites. 

What to Do After

1. Check for injuries and proceed to the evacuation centers

Check yourself and others for injuries and perform first aid if needed. Prioritize children, pregnant women, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and seniors. 

If medical help is required, find the nearest evacuation site or call the emergency hotline. You can find a list of National 911 emergency contacts here. Find the trunk and direct lines for your city, and make sure to have these numbers in your contact list. We recommend having a physical copy of these numbers inside your emergency kits, as saving them solely on your phone won’t be useful should the device run out of battery. 

If you’re trapped somewhere, remain calm. Use a whistle or flashlight to make yourself visible to rescuers. Also, cover your mouth and nose to keep from inhaling smoke and debris. 

2. Expect and be prepared for aftershocks

Earthquakes can often be followed by aftershocks, which can be as strong as the initial tremors. Remember to stay alert during this time. 

If you’re inside, some infrastructure might have already been weakened by the first wave, so be careful of falling debris. If you’re outdoors, remain in an open area away from anything that could fall or collapse. Check for water, gas leaks, toxic spills, electrical and other damages. For those in coastal locations, find higher ground immediately.  

3. Stay informed

Communication lines may be disrupted, which is where battery-operated radios may come in handy. Listen in for updates from authorities regarding aftershocks and evacuation orders. If you happen to have your mobile phones on you, conserve battery as much as possible and only use them for emergencies. 

We hope this list has equipped you for when disaster strikes. Stay safe, folks!

While many companies are shifting their focus to increasing gender and ethnic diversity, there are still industries out there that are heavily male-dominated. This includes aviation, where careers like aircraft piloting are taken by more males than females. According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the participation of women holding positions as pilots, air traffic controllers, and maintenance technicians has only increased from 4.5% globally in 2016 to 4.9% in 2021. It goes without saying that women have a long way to go in the aviation industry with certain barriers like the cost of training and how “women are often held to a different standard.” 

But that doesn’t mean they’re giving up. Times are changing, and though it’s at a slow pace, we are seeing an increase in women in male-dominated careers. In 2023, CEO Magazine reported that the Philippines ranked 10th among countries with the highest number of women CEOs, but other industries, like aviation, are a little tougher to crack, with approximately only 6% of women pilots worldwide, according to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). 

This Women’s Month, we sat down with Cello Santos Custodio, an airline pilot and mom, to talk about breaking barriers in the aviation industry, the significant contributions they make in the industry, and how she manages her work and family life.

An Unexpected Detour

Cello is currently a pilot for Philippine Airlines (PAL), the country’s flagship carrier. Now 29 years old, she’s been with the company for over seven years, starting as a First Officer flying their Turboprop planes from the Q300 to the Q400 to now flying the Airbus 320/321. 

One would think that wanting to fly a plane would’ve been fostered at a young age, but Cello never thought about becoming a pilot till her final year in college while working towards getting a degree in Business Administration with a major in Human Resource Management. During that time, she also ventured into pageantry and modeling, having won "Mutya ng Pasig" in 2014 and 1st Runner Up at the 2016 Miss Aviation Philippines pageant. She was also a competitive swimmer back in her early school days. With many experiences under her belt, we were fascinated to know why she decided to pursue becoming a pilot. 

“My dad is also a pilot, but growing up, I didn't see myself following in his footsteps,” she told The Beat Asia. “It was during my last year in college while doing my OJT (On-the-Job training) when I realized that field of work isn't for me.”

“Being in an office set up wasn’t something I see myself doing in the long run. So, I brought up the idea of being a flight attendant to my dad, but he offered me an option to take up flying school. I was hesitant at first since I had no plans of being a pilot, but after he talked me through it, I was fascinated by it! I became curious about the work and life behind the cockpit door. This curiosity fueled my journey into flight school.”

Today, she’s one of the 80 women pilots who fly for PAL, which represents 9% of their pilot roster. When asked if it was in any way tough to be a woman in her career, she replied, “I personally don’t see any difference between working with men or women. We are employed and trained based on our skills and not our gender. The pilot seat doesn't know any gender. But when I had a family of my own, that’s when I realized how tough it is to be a woman in this field.”

Cello mentioned some of the challenges she faced through the years, such as how women in general need more emotional understanding and social support, which the opposite sex often sees as a lack of competence in a job where there is little or no room for personal emotions. 

“I also see that women value work-life balance more, especially as they shoulder the greater share of child-bearing, caregiving and domestic responsibilities,” she added. 

In terms of overcoming these challenges, the pilot shared how these issues only fueled her determination. It pushed her to try harder and prove that she could do the job as well as any man. She mentioned how it’s not just about the job, but a matter of resilience. 

“As soon as I sit in the cockpit, the pilot in me becomes dominant, and I can easily focus on my work.”

On Balancing Flights and Family

Cello got married recently to fellow pilot and PAL Captain Luigi Custodio and has an adorable two-year-old son. Between being a pilot and mom, we could only imagine how tough it could be to handle both at once, but Cello sees this challenge as a blessing and trusts in her capabilities, which she also believes is an advantage for women in her industry.

“Women are good at multitasking, communication, and handling different personalities, which are essential in ensuring the safety of each flight.” 

She also shared how women serve as “equalizers in the workplace” and have the ability to break established norms and challenge existing assumptions that will eventually lead to new ideas for growth and equal opportunities, especially in male-dominated industries. 

When it comes to work-life balance, Cello admitted that it has been a challenge, especially since giving birth to her son. But she described this challenge as more of a matter of wanting to spend more time with him without sacrificing a career she loves. 

“It’s always painful to leave him behind. He begins to understand his mom has to go to work, and as I wear my uniform, he says, ‘You have work again?!’ and sometimes I can’t help but tear up,” she shared.

“Switching roles from a pilot to a mom after a long day of work is a challenge. Flying is a demanding job, and so is being a mom with all the stress and fatigue. Having a strong support system that understands the need to be rested before and after duty is so important. Luckily, I have the help of my mother, who takes care of my son when I’m away. I would never have been able to do this job without her help. Being a mother and an airline pilot has given me the best of both worlds. I get to continue doing what I love, but when I come home, I have a family to share my life with.” 

PAL has also been working towards building a more diverse workplace and gender-balanced workforce. In fact, the flag carrier recently pledged P10 million for aspiring women pilots through their Fly With Her initiative, which is aimed at increasing female representation in the airline’s pilot workforce. 

“When I was still starting in the industry, there were only 5% of the total population who are women. Now, I see that more women make up the workforce — not just as pilots, but flight mechanics, dispatchers, and others roles,” Cello said. “I get to fly with seasoned female captains and fellow moms whom I learn a lot from. Like our previous chief pilot of the Airbus fleet, she was the very first chief pilot in Asia! Every barrier we break and every step we take opens the way for future generations.”

Balancing life and work will always be challenging no matter what industry you’re in, and being a woman poses its own unique challenges, but Cello is determined to break stereotypes while also enjoying the blessing of being a mother and a wife.

“Give and show love no matter what,” she advised. “I am reminded of this by my 2-year-old son daily. Most of the time, I am gone the whole day, and I come home tired and irritated, but I’m always welcomed by a running little boy shouting 'Mama you’re back!' with lots of hugs and kisses. Sometimes, I lose my patience and get mad at him, but what do I get in return? Love. He always makes me feel like I am the most amazing person in the world. He shows me the kind of person that I need to become.”

She also added that working moms should push through and believe that they are capable of so much more than what people — or society — let on. For all the hardworking women reading this, we echo Cello’s words:

“We don’t have to stick to traditions. Everyone gets to choose what works for them and what makes them the happiest. I know these days are tiring and chaotic, but these are some of the best days of our lives. Enjoy it!”

Follow Cello Santos Custodio on Instagram to get a glimpse of her flight and family journeys. 

Heads up, fur parents! There’s a new pet spot on the block that's about to become your new favorite one-stop shop for quality pet goodies and grooming services!

Located in High Street South at the heart of Manila’s lifestyle capital Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Bubble-It-Yourself (BIY) is revolutionizing the way we care for our fur babies through a modern grooming hub that aims to solve all your pet bathing woes. This new hub is the sister company of Pretty Bubble Boutique, the country’s first pet boutique featuring teacup and toy breed dogs from South Korea for rehoming. 

Pet owners know that part of the many responsibilities of caring for animals is keeping them healthy and one way of doing this is by washing them weekly. We always want our fur babies to look their best and bathing them is one of the ways we show our love. However, it can get a bit challenging especially if you have large breeds that take up the entire shower room or have no bathtubs. Not to mention, all the hair and fur that block the drains and how owners often hurt their backs through the entire process.

BIY is here to address these issues as it is bringing the Philippines' first self-service pet bath kiosk, allowing you to give your pets the ultimate spa day, your way. 

“When I brought this, I thought of a self-laundry shop. At first, I never thought that it would work here in the Philippines since people here have house staff and helpers doing them,” shared Soyoung Shin, BIY’s Managing Director. “But now pet families are growing and more Filipinos are doing it by themselves. Here in BGC, a lot of condominium residents love to have this kind of service to save time, save costs, and use the new technology for their pets.”

BIY’s self-bathing kiosks (a.k.a. “Bubble Booths”) are truly remarkable, and The Beat Asia witnessed a live demonstration of how the state-of-the-art tech worked during their Grand Opening last Feb. 8. 

Each station is fully equipped with all your pet pampering needs and features a single kiosk that dispenses water with adjustable temperature and pressure, gentle and medicated shampoo and conditioner, and a blow dryer. There’s also a separate grooming table where you can brush your dogs, clean their ears, and even apply dog perfume using the hygiene products provided. The service also includes towels for your pets and aprons to keep yourself dry through the process.

Outside the Bubble Booths, you’ll also find three dryer machines of varying sizes where you can put your pets. Simply tap and let the machine do the drying for you. The BIY staff assured us that it’s completely safe and even a relaxing experience for your fur babies. The dryer rooms have negative ions that are designed to lessen fizziness and remove extra dirt, so you can be sure that by the time it’s over, your pets will look cuter and dapper than ever!

All kiosks are activated through a reloadable RFID card, which you can purchase from the store’s counter. Bathing sessions last for 20 minutes and are priced at P380. If you need to extend, you can tap once for an additional 10 minutes for P190. On the other hand, you use the dryer rooms for five minutes for only P100. 

If you wish to give your pets a traditional grooming treatment, a Makeover Salon is also available and is manned by professional groomers trained by Korean experts who can give your pets a stylish haircut. They also have ala carte grooming services such as nail cutting and filling, teeth cleaning, and face trimmings. Prices vary depending on pet size and start from P100 for small breeds and P250 for extra-large breeds. You can check out their price list on their Instagram page.

As if that isn’t amazing enough, BIY is also a pet shop housing a selection of premium goods such as pet food, grooming supplies, clothes, toys, and accessories — all imported from South Korea! The price range is quite affordable and at par with other local pet shops. Dog treats, for example, range from P100 to P300 while adorable dog harnesses with character designs start from P740. 

Another notable product is their pet pastries which are baked fresh daily! There are doughnuts for P200, carrot cake slices for P300, Petperos (biscuit sticks inspired by the famed Pepero chocolate pretzels), and chicken sausage rolls for P250! If you’re celebrating a barkday, they also have mini cakes (P550) and birthday cookies (P120) to make your fur babies feel extra special. 

“We brought the feeling of a mini convenience store for your pets,” Soyoung told The Beat Asia. “After bathing, you can just drop by to get treats for them. For cat or dog owners, they can always think of BIY to do your groceries for pet essentials.”

What are you waiting for? Give your fur babies a bubbly spa day by visiting BIY today! Reservations and walk-ins are welcome! 

For more information, you can contact them at +63 995 918 3000 or follow Bubble-It-Yourself on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more bubbly updates on exclusive perks and discounts.

Location: Bubble-It-Yourself, G/F High Street South Corporate Plaza, 26th St., BGC, Taguig

Operation Hours: Daily, from 8 AM to 10 PM