This Week in Manila (June 6 to 12, 2016)

The Philippine Independence Day, June 12, falls on a Sunday. Nevertheless, there will still be an Independence Day celebration at the Rizal Park in Manila to be spearheaded by the Philippine Information Agency, the official communication arm of the Philippine Government. Among the activities planned include a flag raising and singing of the National Anthem, wreath-laying, and 21-gun salute. A run-for-a-cause and Hataw/Zumba exercises will also be part of the program.

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts is bringing colors to public places in Manila. Various activities from Chalk Art to Larong Pinoy and Kite-Making are to be held on weekends which started last May 28. Baybayin Writing and Calligraphy Workshop using Baybayin characters will be featured in this week’s event. More schedules of activities can be seen at The National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ Facebook Page.

The Filipinos’ innate love for food will always be there. Food enthusiasts will surely be excited about the 10th Manila Food and Beverage Expo (MAFBEX) at World Trade Center – East Wing Tent A on June 8 to 12, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The MAFBEX Events Management started the very first MAFBEX event ten years ago, aiming to elevate local cuisines to international level. Over 500 booths are expected to showcase Filipino and international food and drinks while celebrity chefs, executive chefs, and international chefs will be doing cooking demonstrations.

TOYCON is one of the most-awaited annual events by pop-culture fans all over the country. Just in time for their 15th year anniversary, they are holding the TOYCON 2016 + Pop Life FanXperience on June 10 to June 12, 2016 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay. Celebrity guests from local and international pop scenes can be expected in the event. One day pass ticket for adults is PhP500 while it’s PhP250 for kids. Also available is the Legend Pass worth Php10,000 that is good for three days admission, VIP seating, plus loads of exclusive freebies.

The Mabuhay lanes are express routes for private vehicles aimed to help decongest traffic in the city. Illegally parked vehicles and obstructions along Mabuhay lanes can be reported to MMDA through Viber and Twitter.

Rainy season is here, bringing intermittent showers in different parts of Metro Manila. Most rains can be expected in the late afternoons, with a couple of thunderstorms. It is recommended to bring an umbrella when planning to go outside because weather might abruptly change from fair to rainy.