LGBTQ+ lost a safe place as Today x Future announces closure

Thursday, June 18, 2020

LGBTQ+ lost a safe place as Today x Future announces closure - metroscene mag


It’s a sad day for the LGBTQ+ community as Cubao’s famous bar, Today x Future announced its closure.

For almost 12 years, the bar has become safe place very dear to every people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other sexual orientations and gender identities.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, the bar shared their gratitude for the community, “Thank you to all our promoters, our performers, our tireless staff and all our regulars, old and new. You have made our tiny abode the warmest, most nurturing nursery it can be.”



Read Today x Future’s full statement below:


Today x Future is closing.
After long days and nights of deliberation, wrestling options and way too much alcohol to cushion the emotion, we are left with the decision to say farewell.
We would have turned 12 years old but alas, the uncertainty has made it incredibly difficult. However, this isn’t a statement about sorrow and regrets and wishing things would have been different. This is a love letter—a love letter to all of you who have kept our Future shining bright for over a decade.
We don’t know what the future holds but we hold on to all the unforgettable memories. We’ll always remember them fondly, from the loud, endless singalongs and sardinas sayawan to the quiet moments when we realise how much we all mean to each other.
Thank you to all our promoters, our performers, our tireless staff and all our regulars, old and new. You have made our tiny abode the warmest, most nurturing nursery it can be.
As we close another chapter, we keep one open. Futur:st, our baby sibling in Poblacion will remain open as long as we can keep it that way. In the coming weeks, we will be announcing plans to welcome you back there in another shape and form, and we hope you can continue to support us and make it your second home.
We may not be able to throw Today x Future the closing party it truly deserved but we are throwing one last hurrah on June 27, with our online Pride celebration. More details to be announced in the coming days!
What is coming is better than what is gone? Who knows? Perhaps we’ll see you again in the near future ❤
We love you. We thank you. We will miss you.

As the nightclub closed its curtains, avid goers took to social media to share how Today x Future has become part of their lives.





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Wing it 'til you make it with the new STABILO x Sephora Collection

Wing it 'til you make it with the new STABILO x Sephora Collection - metroscene mag

If you’re going to ask any college student about their back to school must have, we guarantee that STABILO highlighters will make the list. Admit it or not, but those series of colorful highlighters do, well, almost anything.

Hell, you might have even thought of using it as an eye liner because its tips, were too perfect to draw wing eyeliner!

Well, get ready to satisfy your curiosity! STABILO highlighter and Sephora have teamed up to create a new beauty line that will bring you back to your college sleepless nights— less the stress, guaranteed.

Sephora x STABILO Felt tip Eyeliner is perfect for everyday makeup or a night out party with your friends! (or use it while studying, we wont judge.)



This collaboration puts its “dual line” capacities to the test with its intuitive applicator nib: create thin or thick lines, or even the most perfect winged liners!

The Felt tip Eyeliner collection has a variety of 4 intense and pigmented colors you can choose—the Ink Splash (black), Back-to-School (grey), Chocolate Break (dark brown) , and Summer Holiday(dark blue shade).

As of writing, Sephora x STABILO Collaboration is not yet available in the country but the felt eyeliner is priced at 15 Singaporean dollars, which is approximately P538. We can’t wait to have these babies !

Text by: Novie Nunez

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Let Jane De Leon and 8 Other Filipinas Tell You What It Means To Be Free

Wednesday, June 17, 2020


The coronavirus pandemic has changed everything around the world as  we know it . Routines were disrupted, travel plans were postponed, work and businesses were put on hold. But even with more than a billion people in lockdown,  one thing remains the same: The resilience of a woman. 
In a time when it’s difficult to feel free, MODESS understands how a lot of women may feel anxious, confused, and even powerless. That’s why while some of us worry and are afraid to face the challenges of the “new normal”, MODESS found nine inspiring women who remained empowered and positive amidst the pandemic. 

Jane De Leon
As the newest MODESS angel, Jane opened up about her preparations for an upcoming iconic role that was halted by the pandemic. “Tulad ng marami sa inyo, I had big plans for 2020,” but amidst the limitations, Jane focused her energy on working towards improving herself and her craft.

“I’m really excited to go back to shooting but for now, I push myself to train every day, and I take the time to really study my next role.” The 21-year-old actress has been sharing snippets of her workouts on social media and hinted about doing more vlogs on her YouTube channel.

 Patricia Prieto admitted
“When the ECQ started, my mental, physical, and emotional health were all over the place. I couldn’t workout, I couldn’t do anything,” cycling instructor Patricia Prieto admitted. When fitness gyms and studios closed at the start of the lockdown, the routines of women like Patricia, dance instructor Sam Corrales, yogi Sophie Albert, and fitness enthusiast Crisha Uy were disrupted. But these girls knew that they’re stronger and bigger than today’s challenges. “Eventually, I was able to come up with a new routine for myself. I now workout more consistently and have more strength and push to do a lot of things,” added Patricia. 

Arianne Bautista and Erika Rabara
For travel enthusiasts Arianne Bautista and Erika Rabara, 2020 was supposed to be a year filled with trips and adventures. Despite the cancelled trips, these girls have found ways to keep doing what they love to do. For Arianne, it’s all about continuing to create good content and planning for future trips. Erika, on the other hand, allows her mind to travel by reading more about the different places that she wants to visit. “Being free to move today doesn’t have to be about physically travelling. It’s about how far you can travel with just your mind,” Erika shared.


#FreeToMoveWithModess: Read the inspiring letters that these unstoppable women wrote to themselves. From upper left to lower right: @samcor_, @patrciaprieto, @crishauy, @itsophiealbert, @iradeniseoyco, @erikarabara, @arianne, @iamrheabue  


Ira Oyco and Rhea Bue 
Like many business owners, Ira Oyco and Rhea Bue had to stop the operations of their shops for a while. While it was a difficult decision to make, these two women dealt with the situation like true girl bosses. Rhea and Ira turned their homes into makeshift studios to shoot their collections and studied the effects of the pandemic to online buyers in order to protect their businesses.
MODESS® offers a range of sanitary protection that caters to specific needs of women, so that nothing can stop them from making their move. MODESS® introduces its first and only flexi-move pad, the new MODESS® Body Adapt Longs. Designed with a unique body adapt shape, the new MODESS® Body Adapt Longs keeps its shape as you move for up to zero leaks so you can have 100% Freedom to Move. 

Text by: Novie Nunez
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Maria Ressa: ‘Stand up against any kind of attack against press freedom’

Monday, June 15, 2020


Defend Press Freedom


Today, June 15, 2020, Rappler CEO Maria Ressa and former researcher Reynaldo Santos Jr. found guilty of cyber libel and sentenced to minimum of six months to six years in jail under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.

In a press conference following the verdict, Ressa said, “it’s not unexpected and at the same time, we will keep fighting. It's a blow to us. It's also not an unexpected considering we are going to stand up against any kind of the attack against the press freedom.”

She also followed up, “I appeal to you, the journalists in this room, the Filipinos who are listening to protect your rights. We are meant to be a cautionary tale. We are meant to make you afraid. I appeal again, don't be afraid.”



In supporting the #DefendPressFreedom people show their thoughts, opinions, and verdict in social media to the case of Ressa and about the oppression of Press Freedom under the Duterte Administration.

People are not surprised nor disappointed hence, this is the chance to fight more and stand back against any kind of attack to the press freedom and against the power of this Administration.

“Sa mga Pilpinong nanunuod, hindi lang ito tungkol sa Rappler, hindi lang ito tungkol sa amin, tungkol po ito sainyo because freedom of the press is the foundation of every single right you have as a Filipino citizen.”

"If we can’t hold power to account, we can’t do anything. If we can’t do our jobs, then your rights will be lost" Ressa added.

Following the verdict, Harry Roque said, “The court decision should be respected.”

Hence, the injustice under Duterte Administration can be really seen over and versus in the case of Imelda Marcos and Mocha Uson.

#DefendPressFreedom




Text by: Novie Nuñez
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Here's Another Reason To Love SpongeBob Squarepants: He Is Gay!

Sunday, June 14, 2020

The Gays Are Winning!


In celebration of Pride month, Nickelodeon has officially shared that Bikini Bottom's most famous resident, SpongeBob SquarePants is a member of the LGBTQ community.

Earlier today, Nickelodeon tweeted this statement in celebration of Pride — which also features pictures of Korra from The Legend of Korra, actor Michael D. Cohen from Henry Danger:



Interestingly enough, SpongeBob's creator, Stephen Hillenburg, had also given his opinion on the issue in 2005, stating that SpongeBob, alongside his best friend Patrick Star, are asexual.

“It doesn’t have anything to do with what we’re trying to do,” Hillenburg told Reuters at the time.

“We never intended them to be gay. I consider them to be almost asexual. We’re just trying to be funny and this has got nothing to do with the show.”

He added that there are “more important issues to worry about. I really don’t pay much attention to this.”

Nickelodeon’s sent the internet into a frenzy on when it tweeted about LGBTQ pride month, prompting “SPONGEBOB GAY” to trend on Twitter world-wide.


Happy Pride Month Everyone! 




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The utter hypocrisy of Filipinos in the face of sex scandals

Friday, June 12, 2020

Sex Scandal - Metroscene Mag
Some Filipinos are sex predators! There, I said it. 

For sure there are those of you who probably disagree. But If that's the case, then at least I have your attention.

Well, let’s face it, as much as we like to insist that we’re a wholesome bunch, our actions pretty much speak for themselves.

Sorry to burst your bubble, but for the past consecutive years the Philippines has been one of the most sexually preoccupied countries in Asia, more than Japan. Pornhub stats can attest to that. Sexual crimes such as sextortion have been blatantly happening in the country,  but we've had enough. 

Welcome to our TED talk


In the country, people scour the depths of Facebook and Twitter just to find sex scandals— some people even ask video links publicly without thinking twice. Everytime a scandal gets leaked, Filipino men hunt on these contents like blood-thirsty hounds but no one bats an eye. It's disgusting.  

But what really makes my blood boil, is how these people justify their actions. In my observaion, when a sex scandal gets leaked, majority of these people always blame the woman involved. 

I have read tons of comments from people, calling the woman ‘pokpok’ or ‘haliparot’ and it's just not right. Some comments even condemns the woman by saying, “If she wants respect, she needs to respect herself first.” or "deserve niya yan" further imposing sexual objectification of Filipino women.

Well, sit down and let me school you: SHE IS NOT THE PROBLEM. People like you, who share and gobble up on these kinds of videos, are. The woman is clearly a victim. It is her body and yes, she can do whatever the hell she wants with it. It’s just that, people like you exist. 

What's more upsetting is that the public completely ignores the participation of men in it. It only proves that the country is also misogynistic. af.

Well, I got news for you. 


Many Filipinos might not know it, but sharing video scandals and illegal sex tapes online without the owner's consent is an actual crime. And  If caught, prosecuted, and convicted, offenders face jail time and hefty damages according to the 1987 Constitution. 

Women's alliance groups and networks such as Anakbayan Women, and Gabriela are only some of the many groups one can run to.

One of the things that I see why these certain problems in the country exist to this very day, is not because we lack ways to address it but simply because we refuse to address them at all. Up to this day, Filipinos still consider these issues as taboos, not realizing that it's causing more damage to our youth than ever.

Text by: Mark Baccay

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This Clothing Brand is changing the world, one ‘katcha’ at a time!

Tuesday, June 9, 2020



Thinking of going green (and every color in between) with your closet? Craftcha has got the goods: bags, shorts, pants, dusters, all made from eco-friendly ‘katcha’!

Craftcha is a micro-business enterprise that offers handcrafted products made from repurposed and upcycled materials. Some of their products include bed covers, kitchen towels, apron, foot rug, kitchen appliances cover, and gift packaging all made with sustainability in mind-- and quality, too!

“We started out as a small-time family business back in 2009. We were one of those who experienced the impact of Typhoon Ondoy in Metro Manila. Our experience inspired us to put up a business that advocates cloth waste management in minimizing plastic bag use.” says Ms. Merlita Manicad, founder of Craftcha in an interview with Metroscene Mag.





From 500 pesos as starting capital, Ms. Manicad started her business without knowing when or where it will take her. "Masipag, matiyaga, madiskarte, maparaan, praktikal, and creative" are the most often commendations of her customers to her brand.

Fashion but make it sustainable


Craftcha innovates and creates useful household goods not just made of flour sacks but also from scrap cloth, old clothes, old jeans, outdated clothing, and even from rice sacks as their new products.



“Given our story on how we started, as well as our goals, it is purpose-driven. Kakayanan natin na makapag inspire pa ng ibang mga tao at maniwala sila na madaming magagawa sa mga basurang tela. Sa tuwing nagbibigay suporta ang mga costumers natin sa mga little efforts ng brand sa pag lessen ng basura, at paniniwala sa mga nagagawa naming products. These are the little gestures and small deeds na nagke-create ng long term impact, that keep us going.” she added.

For more than a decade of crafting, the company have already contributed a lot in terms of sustainable living, taking pride in their slogan: “Craftcha – 99% upcycled goods, handcrafted for the love of nature.”

You can visit craftcha.ph on Facebook and Instagram or reach out to Ms. Merlita Manicad through email manicad.craftcha@yahoo.com to accommodate your inquiries.

Text by: Novie Nunez


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This Youtuber Makes Cooking Fun With Hilarious Kitchen Antics

Monday, June 8, 2020


If there’s one thing we all can agree on about being a Filipino, it’s that we are naturally funny with an appetite. We love to eat and laugh. But who would've thought food and humor would mix well? Luis Azcona and Sharlene Gumpal did.

Listening to Luis narrate his fiancé, Sharlene’s cooking videos is undeniably a comical breakthrough. Puns and jokes in the entire videos were hidden in between ingredients presentation, clumsy errors, and the fun process. "Hello sa inyo, mga bata!" impersonations. Vanilla jokes. Strawberries na nakipagsapalaran sa Maynila. Nanay ng almond. These are just a few of "Luis Azcona Videos'' hidden gems.

The 32-year-old music and video producer with a natural sense of humor, paves his way to an original social media content. His videos are very much unique and pure that it makes one unconsciously smile at a cooking tutorial. And he's not even trying too hard.

In an exclusive interview with Metroscene Mag, Luis and Sharlene unveils how they find inspiration and motivation to create this one-of-a-kind content.

Kitchen stories



Just like his real-life heroes, Anthony Bourdain and Elon Musk, Luis is a visionary and prefers to live in the moment. It’s a strategy he calls “just having fun.” According to him, his motivation comes from the fun that goes along with the entire process of filming.

“My motivation is the fun that we experience during production, and interacting with our subscribers," he said.

Creating unique and valuable content is a multifaceted challenge, and for our dear Sharlene, it's a challenge accepted.

“Na-cha-challenge 'yung inner artist ko, how I will execute in a creative way especially the plating. I look up to Joshua Weissman, Adam Liaw and Marion’s Kitchen. Mel Thompson for makeup,” she shared.
.


The imperfect recipe for perfection


One strength of their content is how they do not cut out the mistakes in cooking--in clumsy holding or filling, breaking eggs, or missing out an ingredient. It's an added ingredient to what makes it so natural. A testimony that says: one's flaws does not make one flawed. Otherwise, clean it up then grow from it.

“I think it's the fact that we don't hide the mistakes in the process. We are home cooks that make mistakes all the time and I think our viewers can resonate with that. Plus, I think the rhymes, the puns, the humour in the voice over instructions help too,” Luis answered as to what makes their content unique from others.

Aside from their online cooking shows, Luis first started uploading musical content, travel vlogs, and educational and witty videos like Tagalog-Bisaya Tutorials and Bokabularyo ni Yorme. Now, Sharlene's make-up tutorials made it to the ensemble still alongside Luis' funny remarks.



Dealing with the bad eggs


Although social media really gives everyone a platform to showcase their talents and creativity, it is also filled with bored trolls. Luckily, the couple is blessed with supportive and loving fans.

“Not really. There's maybe 1% of them. We're very lucky to have a nice, supportive community,” they answered when asked about handling online criticism.

A pinch of life lessons and a smidgen of wisdom


Just like in cooking, the couple have had their fair share of trial and error in terms of finding the right content that suits everyone's taste. The couple now has more than half a million followers on Facebook and almost eighty thousand subscribers on Youtube, and counting. The couple has proved that the secret to achieving success in one's life is doing what you love and loving what you do.

“Create what makes sense to you. If you're on a beach and you got a surfboard, make a surfing video. Obsessed with gardening? Gardening channel. And so on. That way, you will never fail, because if no one watches it, at least you had fun. Most of the time, fans can sense if the creator is having fun and that kind of appeal converts to shares and views.”

If you're reading this, know one thing or two: you love food or you just love watching videos in general. If that's the case, Luis and Sharelene's channel might just be the perfect thing for you!

The couple uploads their videos every week on  Facebook and Youtube.

Text by: Kyle Cadavez & Mark Baccay


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Tired of Being Angry? Voter registration officially resumes this July

Wednesday, June 3, 2020


It's time. 


The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) offices will be resuming its operations nationwide on June 1st, 2020 instituting the no face-to-face transaction policy. The COMELEC Spokesperson, James Jimenez posted a tweet last May 31, “The @COMELEC begins the phased resumption of its operations nationwide tomorrow, June 1, 2020 #COMELECSTAR #TuloySerbisyo”


On that note, voter’s registration will start on first of July confirming by James Jimenez via tweet reply to a citizen last May 28, “Voter registration resumes in July. June will be dedicated to, essentially retrofitting our offices and procedures to ensure the safety of both the public and our workers. Please hang on. #MagparehistroKa #VoterReg2020” In conformity with the strict implementation rules of COMELEC, “Always wear a facemask; Practice handwashing and hand hygiene frequently; Observe social distancing”


For the applicants, bring one valid ID (see the list below) and a filled out registration form (application form available here.)

List of Valid IDs


• Employee’s identification card (ID), with the signature of the employer or authorized representative;
• Postal ID ;
• PWD Discount ID;
• Student’s ID or library card, signed by the school authority;
• Senior Citizen’s ID;
• Driver’s license;
• NBI clearance;
• Passport;
• SSS/GSIS ID;
• Integrated Bar of the Philippine (IBP) ID;
• License issued by the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC);
• Certificate of Confirmation issued by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) in case of members of ICCs or IPs; and
• Any other valid ID

Register now and make a change for the future. We are the voice of this country! Vote wisely and do not forget that we are making our country better for us, for our future generations.

Text by: Novie Nunez

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