What's on MNL: Best Things to See, Do, Eat, & Drink on May 11-17, 2023

Ahh, another week is upon us, and you’re looking for cool things to get up to in Manila! We’ve saved you the hassle with The Beat Manila’s rundown of the best places to hit up and things to do right now—from blink-and-you'll-miss-it pop-up sights and new restaurant openings, to the hottest activities that you shouldn’t miss.

To keep your finger on the pulse of the city, follow The Beat Manila to see what’s best in store for the week ahead. 

1. ‘BOX, UNBOXED: Popping a Happy Place’

If you’re part of the ARMY, you’re in for a treat as SMDC Sun Mall and the University of Santo Tomas has an ongoing interior design exhibit featuring BTS! Inspired by UNICEF’s “Love Yourself” campaign, the art showcase features colorful paintings, furniture, and photos of the seven-member band that will surely put a smile on your face. Click here for more information.

When: 10 AM-7 PM, Until May 10

Where: SMDC Sun Mall, Welcome Rotonda, Quezon City

How much: Free

2. ‘Step Up Sa Pangarap’ Virtual Summit

Working students, this one’s for you! The Mapua Malayan Digital College is mounting a three-day virtual summit until Friday. Dubbed “Step Up Sa Pangarap,” the online event aims to equip working students with insights on how they can advance their career and achieve work-life balance. Experts such as Accenture’s Bryan Ordas and Concentrix Philippines’ Rica Jimenez will be speaking at the event to share their knowledge. Register through this link.

When: Until May 12

Where: Link will be sent via email after signing up for the event

How much: Free

3. TAM DokyuFest

Movie geeks who wish to learn more about the rich culture of the Philippines must attend Far Eastern University’s upcoming event. Dubbed “TAM DokyuFest,” the movie affair will showcase a series of eye-opening student-produced documentaries such as “Abante Babae,” “Barya Lang Po Sa Umaga,” “Beyond Spotlight,” “Nanay Tatay,” and more. Visit FEU’s website for more details.

When: Until May 12

Where: Far Eastern University, Nicanor Reyes Street, Sampaloc, Manila

How much: Free

4. ‘Evil Dead Rise’ Screening

The highly anticipated horror film “Evil Dead Rise” will finally be shown in Philippine cinemas this week. Starring Lily Sullivan, Alyssa Sutherland, and Morgan Davies, the Lee Cronin-directed film follows the story of two estranged sisters and their battle with flesh-possessing demons. It will be screened exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas. Purchase your ticket via SureSeats now.

When: Starting May 10

Where: Ayala Malls cinemas nationwide

How much: Starts at P470

5. Fully Booked Free Comic Day

Hey, bookworms! You’re invited to Fully Booked’s “Free Comic Book Day” this Saturday. Look forward to a flurry of graphic novels, art books, sci-fi comics, and Filipino-made titles with enchanting storylines that will transport you to new dimensions. Customers can get two free comic books each. For more information, follow Fully Booked on Facebook and Instagram.

When: 10 AM, May 13

Where: Fully Booked, Ground Floor, B6, Bonifacio High Street, Taguig, Metro Manila

How much: Free

6. BPI Career Fair Day

Looking for job opportunities? If you’ve always wanted to enter the industry of banking and finance, head over to Bank of the Philippine Island’s (BPI) forthcoming career fair day. Hiring professionals will be at the event to interview you on the spot, so make sure to research beforehand and wear your best formal attire to make a good impression. Go to BPI’s Facebook page for the latest updates.

When: 8 AM, May 13

Where: BPI Family Savings Building, 109 Dela Rosa cor. Paseo de Roxas St., Makati

How much: Free

7. Modeka Art Gallery

Love arts and culture? If yes, you’ll be happy to find out that Filipino artist Eugene Dominguez is running a life-altering exhibit at Modeka Art Gallery, where you can view photographs and paintings that depict his visions of self-awareness. Refreshing drinks will be served to art enthusiasts who will attend the event. Follow Modeka Art Gallery on Instagram for more information.

When: May 13 to June 3

Where: Modeka Art Gallery, Warehouse 20A La Fuerza 1 2241, Don Chino Roces Avenue, Makati

How much: Free

8. The Metrobank Fair

The inaugural Metrobank Fair is happening this weekend! If you’re on the hunt for the latest travel deals and food promotions, then go to Glorietta Palm Drive on Saturday as merchants such as AirAsia, Agoda, Philippine Airlines, and FoodPanda, just to name a few, will be there to offer the hottest travel and dining deals. Go to Metrobank’s website for more information.

When: May 11-14

Where: Glorietta Palm Drive, Ayala Center, Makati, Metro Manila

How much: Free entrance

9. French Food and Wine Festival

Vinos will spill onto the pavement of Paseo de Roxas this Sunday as wine connoisseurs gather at the French Food and Wine Festival. More than 50 vendors are expected to bring their wines, food, and artisanal products to all visitors to check out. As an added treat, moms will get a complimentary glass of sangria for Mothers’ Day! Click here to know more.

When: 2 PM onwards, May 13-14

Where: Paseo de Roxas, Makati City

How much: Free entrance

10. Mommy and Me Ballet Class

If you’re still looking for a fun activity to celebrate Mother’s Day, check out this ballet workshop at Shangri-La Plaza. Studio Dance by Lina is hosting a mom-and-daughter ballet session to give you and your little one the basics of one of the most graceful performance dances, while creating a unique bond through movements. For inquiries, contact 0917-1739-157.

When: 11:45 AM-12:45 PM, May 13

Where: Unit 566, Main Wing, Shangri-La Plaza, EDSA cor. Shaw Blvd., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

How much: N/A

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