This Week in Metro Manila (February 12-18, 2018)

What makes Chinese New Year different is that its date varies per year depending on the lunar calendar. In the Philippines, the Chinese New Year celebration is not limited to Chinese people, as Filipinos also celebrate the occasion by flocking to Binondo for the countdown with their friends and families. Usually, areas with a vast Filipino-Chinese community hold dragon dances and other Chinese New Year events during the countdown and on the day itself.

Love is in the air this Wednesday! During Valentine’s Day, couples traditionally give each other presents as tokens of appreciation. Usual gifts include a box of chocolate (extra points if it’s heart-shaped), teddy bears, heart-shaped balloons, and a bouquet of roses. A plethora of red-colored and heart-shaped items will be all over several establishments in Metro Manila as Filipinos celebrate this day.

Northbound commuters or tourists heading somewhere near Quezon City should brace themselves for possible heavy traffic coming their way as the 1st quarter of the National Earthquake Drill will occur on February 15. The drill will be held at the Quezon Memorial Circle from 2:00 PM onwards. It is a government project that aims to ensure that civilians would be prepared for “The Big One”—an expected mega earthquake that can hit Manila anytime soon.

There are various foods that represent Chinese cuisine, such as noodles, dimsum, and spring rolls, but on the eve of Chinese New Year, dumplings are the staples that have to be served. Usually, it is made of minced meat and chopped chives wrapped in a dough skin. The fillings vary from ground chicken, minced pork, ground beef, vegetables, or minced shrimp.

Dumplings can be found in several Chinese restaurants all over Manila for those who want to try the classic Chinese dish.

Read: Top 8 Chinese Restaurants in Metro Manila 2018

Lovebirds have a lucky chance to book hotel rooms for their Valentine’s celebration. According to booking websites, there are still many available rooms from various hotels from different parts of Metro Manila. Valentine’s room packages are also offered to twosomes who plan to have staycations within the week.

Read: 5 Tempting Hotel Promos You Can Book for Valentine’s Day 2018

Besides the spark between couples, there will also be sparks coming from the dazzling fireworks display on the countdown celebration of Chinese New Year. In addition to Binondo, some major hotel and casinos in the Metro will hold parties with fireworks displays to celebrate the occasion.

Valentine’s Day will be extra cold to single people out there not only figuratively, but literally. As February goes on, colder winds are expected to persist. However, it also expected to be a little sunny as well, which is great for picnic dates and other outdoor activities. Couples heading outside should wear light clothing during the day as it can be a bit warm on the afternoons with the temperature starting at 29 °C with the highest at 32 °C.

Those who will be having a fancy dinner date at a luxurious rooftop restaurant or stargazing date should brace themselves for chilly breezes as the temperature ranges from 22 °C to 25 °C. Bringing a cardigan or any additional layer of clothing can help in coping with the cold.