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Manila’s Finest: Moira Lang on Memory, Policing and the Quiet Arrival of Martial Law

loriehalliday@gmail.com — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:33:16 +0000

By Veronica Pedrosa

By the time “Manila’s Finest” reached Philippine cinemas last Christmas, it was an anomaly. A slow burn, character-driven film set in the late 1960s—years before Ferdinand Marcos formally declared martial law—it arrived in a commercial film landscape dominated by spectacle, comedy and easy sentiment.

And yet, against the odds, it seems to have found its audience.��

Co-written and co-produced by filmmaker Moira Lang, “Manila’s Finest” has since picked up awards and strong word-of-mouth, praised for its restraint and emotional weight.

Rather than retelling history through an explicitly political lens, with speeches and slogans, the film inhabits the everyday lives of Manila police officers at a moment when the institutions meant to protect the public were quietly beginning to change.

For Lang, that approach is deliberate—and deeply personal.

From independent cinema to an unlikely Christmas release

Lang is no stranger to independent filmmaking. Her first producing credit, “The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros” (2005), became a landmark of Philippine queer cinema, screening at Sundance, Berlin and beyond.

This year, more than two decades on, it returns to the Berlinale as part of the Teddy Awards’ 40th anniversary retrospective—a reminder that Philippine art cinema has long been alive, if often working at the margins.

She later co-produced Lav Diaz’s “Norte, the End of History,” the four-hour epic inspired by Dostoyevsky’s “Crime and Punishment,” that cemented her reputation internationally. For many viewers outside the Philippines, Norte was a revelation: a film unafraid of long silences, moral ambiguity and class fracture.

That same sensibility runs through “Manila’s Finest,” even if the film’s origins were unexpectedly modest.

“It began with a Facebook post,” Lang recalls. “A friend living abroad wrote a long, intimate reflection about a policeman in late-1960s Manila—a tribute filled with anecdotes and quiet affection. The subject, it turned out, was his father, a member of the Manila Police Department, then popularly known as “Manila’s Finest.”

Reading it, Lang immediately saw cinematic potential. “I thought: this has to be a personal story,” she says. “But the bigger story is what’s happening around them that they don’t yet see.”

Manila as a testing ground

As Lang researched the period, a pattern emerged. Long before the official declaration of martial law in 1972, the signs were already there: curfews, protests, creeping militarisation, and the growing presence of the Metropolitan Command or METROCOM encroaching on civilian policing.

METROCOM was a specialized unit of the Philippine Constabulary created by President Ferdinand Marcos on July 14, 1967, through Executive Order No. 76.

“In a way, Manila became a testing ground,” she explains. “You could see how far the state could go. It was a microcosm of what was about to happen to the whole country.”

Crucially, “Manila’s Finest” never centres Marcos himself, or any of the powerful figures behind the scenes. Instead, the camera stays with the policemen—men who still believed they were serving their communities, who remembered a time when people felt warmth rather than fear when they saw a uniform.

“That’s what moved me,” Lang says. “A time when people still had affection for the police. And how that affection slowly erodes.”

The tragedy of the film lies in what the characters cannot yet recognise. The political shifts are there—in rumours, in absences, in offhand remarks—but by the time the changes become undeniable, they are already in place.

“At some point,” Lang says, “when you finally realise what’s happening, it’s already too late.”

Making the film—against the odds

From a producer’s standpoint, “Manila’s Finest” was a hard sell. A period piece. No obvious commercial hook. Too bleak to be a “feel-good” film, yet too grounded to sit comfortably as art house fare.

Even Lang was sceptical when MediaQuest, the production company backing the film, suggested submitting it to the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF)—a Christmas festival synonymous with mass-appeal releases.

“I told them, ‘Are you crazy?’” she laughs. “It’s not a Christmas movie.”

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What changed everything was the involvement of star actor Piolo Pascual, who responded strongly to the script and agreed to attach his name to the project. With deadlines looming, Lang and her collaborators—including veteran writer Michiko Yamamoto—rushed to complete the screenplay in a matter of weeks.

Against expectations, the film was selected.

It looks and sounds terrific. The art direction, production design and musical score wonderfully evoke a bygone era with an affectionate but open-eyed nostalgia. Lang shared the deeply romantic playlist of kundimans from the era with me when I commented on the careful curation of music in the film.

It reclaims “Dahil Sa Iyo [Because Of You],” from the fatigue of overuse in Imelda Marcos’ political rallies back in the velvet tones of Diomedes Maturan. Leopoldo Silos’ “Filipino Offbeat Cha cha cha” is another perfectly placed track in the movie that lifts and colors the emotional narrative and somehow gives it back to ordinary people who lived through those turbulent years.

The film’s initial reception was mixed. Opening on Christmas Day, audiences distracted by holidays and reunions were unsure what to make of it. But as the weeks passed, something shifted. The film stayed in cinemas longer than expected, buoyed by word-of-mouth and a growing sense that it was speaking—quietly but clearly—to the present moment.

Lang remembers leaving early screenings unsure how audiences would respond. “That first week was hard,” she admits.

A film that resonates beyond the Philippines

Watching “Manila’s Finest” today, it’s hard not to draw parallels beyond Philippine history. Lang herself notes how the film resonates amid the global return of “strongman” politics—from the Philippines to the US and Europe.

“What’s happening in the system that’s supposed to protect the public,” she asks, “that turns it into something people fear?”

For Filipinos in the diaspora—particularly second- and third-generation viewers—the film offers a way back into history without didacticism. It invites reflection rather than demanding allegiance.
Lang is especially pleased when viewers catch small historical references, such as the subtle nod to Liliosa Hilao, the student activist whose death in custody became a turning point in opposition to the Marcos regime. These details, she says, are acts of remembrance.

“They honour the people of that time.”

What comes next

For now, Manila’s Finest has screened primarily in the Philippines. Lang and her team are submitting it to international festivals, hoping to premiere the film abroad later this year. The goal is clear: to bring the film to Filipinos overseas—and to non-Filipino audiences curious to understand the country beyond headlines.

“It’s not just about 1971,” Lang says. “It’s about how erosion happens—slowly, quietly—until one day everything is different.”

For viewers willing to sit with its silences, “Manila’s Finest” offers something increasingly rare: a film that trusts its audience to feel, remember and think.

About the Author

Veronica Pedrosa is an award-winning international journalist with more than 20 years of frontline experience. She has reported, anchored and produced for the world’s leading broadcasters, including Al Jazeera English, CNN International and BBC World News.

Her career also spans humanitarian advocacy and strategic communications, with extensive field experience, giving her deep insight into crisis communications, strategic messaging and the ethics of storytelling in emergency contexts.

The post Manila’s Finest: Moira Lang on Memory, Policing and the Quiet Arrival of Martial Law appeared first on 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��.

Special Filipino recipes for Valentine’s Day

loriehalliday@gmail.com — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000

By Lorie Halliday

St. Valentine’s Day is upon us again, and it’s a great time to celebrate the ones we love. Though some of us may still be recovering financially from the excesses of Christmas, there’s a way to mark the occasion without spending much, like making affordable, but delicious, homemade dishes.

Let’s find ways to��show how much people mean to us whenever we can. For Filipinos, one way we express love and care is through food. Whenever we meet a family member or a friend, we never fail to ask, “Kumain ka na (Have you eaten yet)?”��

For those who enjoy cooking or are willing to just give it a go, you are in for a treat! We’re sharing simple recipes that you can try at home. You can prepare these dishes using everyday, simple ingredients to share with your loved ones, or even as a treat for yourself.��

We have special recipes from devoted Filipino chefs Rex De Guzman and Mark Corbyn, which are sure to make your loved ones feel like royalty and ask you to make extras.

“I’m Rex, a Filipino chef and founder of Turo Turo Filipino Bar & Grill in London. My work focuses on showcasing Filipino food through bold flavours, shared dining and dishes that tell personal and cultural stories—bridging tradition with modern hospitality.

I chose Royale Bibingka because it represents indulgence at its best. It’s rich, soft and deeply comforting. It’s everything you want from a dessert meant to be shared. Unlike everyday bibingka, the royale version leans fully into decadence, with a luxurious texture that feels celebratory rather than casual.

This recipe also carries personal meaning for me. It’s something I learned from my partner, Angel Deduyo, and over time it’s become a dish I associate with warmth, generosity and togetherness. For me, that emotional connection makes it a perfect choice for Valentine’s—food that feels intimate, nostalgic and made with care.”

Recipe: Royal Bibingka – Glutinous Rice Cake

Ingredients

2 Whole eggs
175g Caster sugar
390g Coconut milk
45g Melted butter
210g Glutinous rice flour, sifted
50g Self-raising flour, sifted
Table Salt
100g Mild Cheddar cheese, grated

Method

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy for about 5 minutes. Gradually add the coconut milk and melted butter, and whisk together.
Meanwhile, sift and combine the self-raising flour and glutinous rice flour. Add the salt.
Add dry ingredients and combine well together to form the bibingka batter.
Quickly heat the banana leaves over an open flame until the oil starts to shine through. Be careful not to burn. (optional) – OR make a Cartouche with greaseproof paper.
Fill the skillet pans with about 200g of Bibingka mix.
Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C for approx 18-20 minutes until the top starts to brown and is almost cooked.
Top each bibingka with a good sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese.
Bake for a further 5-8 minutes until just set, and the cheese is well melted.
When cooked, remove the bibingka from the oven. Using a skewer, lightly poke holes around each bibingka.��
Meanwhile, in a pan, melt and boil together the unsalted butter with caster sugar, then brush and glaze each individual bibingka
Allow to cool at room temperature.

“I’m Mark Corbyn, the chef behind The Adobros, a Filipino catering company doing everything from private dinners to weddings, in London and across the country. When not in the kitchen, I love spending time with my wife, daughter and dog, and also write about Filipino food and culinary culture on my Substack, For the Love of Adobo.

Leche flan is one of my wife’s favourite desserts. So when I told her that I wanted to develop a recipe for The Adobros, she was very excited – but also very keen to taste test and ensure that I did a good job. I think I went through about four iterations before she was happy with the result, and now she always asks me to make extra whenever I have an order for leche flan. And indeed, I will be making it for her this Valentine’s weekend!”

Recipe: Leche Flan

Makes 1x 2lb loaf tin or regular-sized llanera (good for 3-4 servings)

Ingredients

For caramel
60g Sugar
15ml Water

For leche flan
5 Egg yolks
1 Egg white
198.5g (½ can) Condensed milk
205g (½ can) Evaporated milk
¼ tsp Vanilla extract or pandan extract

Method

Put the sugar in a small saucepan, then add the water. Wait until the sugar is fully hydrated.
Heat the sugar mixture on high, taking care not to stir it. Watch it carefully until it starts to brown at the edges – at this point, start to gently swirl it and allow the mixture to caramelise.
Once a dark golden brown colour and starting to smoke, take off the heat and immediately pour into the loaf tin or llanera, taking care to spread it evenly. You can bang the tin on the counter, to help disperse any bubbles. Leave to cool.
Mix the egg yolks, egg whites, vanilla/pandan extract, condensed milk and evaporated milk in a bowl, stirring vigorously with a spatula to mix well (without incorporating too much air).
Strain the custard mix into another bowl through a sieve, to remove air bubbles as well as to further mix everything.
Stir the custard mix a few times, then strain again into another bowl through a sieve, to further remove air bubbles and encourage smoothness.
Strain the custard mix a third and final time into the tin with the caramel base.
Heat the oven to 175c.
Cover the custard mix tray tightly with tin foil. Place the tray into a larger oven tray; add water to the oven tray until it is about halfway up the side of the custard mix tin.
Bake in the oven for at least 40 minutes.
Once 40 minutes is done, check the flan; if it has a solid-ish wiggle in the middle, it is done. If not, cover again and bake for another 5 minutes. Once ready, take out the oven, remove the foil and then leave to cool completely.
Run a knife around the edge of the leche flan. Flip the tray onto another tray; the leche flan should come out, and the caramel over it too.
Portion up and serve.

Here’s a recipe that my husband and I love to make for special weekends or to take with us on a long hike with our dog.

What is the difference between empanadas and pasties? Well, it seems to be mostly cultural. Both offer a combination of shortcrust pastry and delicious savoury fillings of meat, onions and vegetables. However, the empanada comes from Northern Spain and the pasty from South West England, which are not a million miles away from each other.��

The real origin of the dish is hard to pinpoint, and most cultures have a variation on this humble folded pie. The recipe probably originated in the Middle East and was brought by Spanish settlers to Latin America and the Philippines.��

This is a vegan version of the classic recipe, but feel free to replace the tofu with ground meat if you prefer. We will oven-bake these savoury pastries rather than deep-frying them, but the results will still be delicious.

One of the best things about this recipe is how it doesn’t require any expensive or hard-to-find ingredients. It will make four medium-sized empanadas, but feel free to double the ingredients and prepare more if you like.

Recipe: Vegan Empanadas / Pinoy Pasties

Ingredients

For the dough:

200g All-purpose flour (known as plain flour here in the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��)
100g vegan margarine, butter or any baking fat
Pinch of salt
2 Tablespoons of water

For the filling:

¼ red bell pepper
1 medium potato
1 medium carrot
1 medium onion
180g block of tofu
1 tablespoon soy sauce
A dash of pepper (white or black)
A quarter teaspoon of margarine for each pastry

Making the dough

First, we’ll mix up our dough ingredients. It’s actually better to make the pastry in advance and leave it in the fridge, which makes it easier to work with.��

Weigh the flour and margarine into a bowl, then rub the margarine into the flour until it looks like breadcrumbs.
Add a pinch of salt to the mixture. You can leave this out if you are using salted margarine or butter and prefer less salt.��
Add two tablespoons of water and stir with a silicon spatula or wooden spoon until the mixture forms a tight ball. This shouldn’t take too long, but if the mixture remains crumbly, add a little more water. Try not to knead or squash the dough too much, as this will make it chewy and bread-like.
When your dough is prepared, put it in a container and leave it in the fridge until ready to use.

Making the filling

Dice the potato, onion, bell pepper and carrot into small cubes, then combine them in a bowl, making sure they are evenly mixed.
In a bowl, crumble the tofu into small chunks and stir in the soy sauce. Heat a teaspoon of oil in a pan and fry the tofu on a medium heat for around five minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the texture is chewy.
Leave them to cool.

Making the empanadas

Season the potato, onion, carrot and bell pepper mixture with a little salt and pepper. White pepper is really good in empanadas, but if you don’t have it, just use black pepper. Add the fried tofu to this mixture and stir it well.
Heat your oven to 180°C and prepare a baking tray to place your empanadas on.��
Shaping the dough is the trickiest bit about making empanadas, but it’s also the most fun. I usually cut the dough ball into four even quarters, then roll them into balls.��
At this point, it’s important not to touch the dough too much because the heat from your hands will melt the margarine and make the dough sticky. Just spread a little flour on your counter, take one of the dough balls and squash it flat with your palm.��
Using a rolling pin (or the edge of a glass bottle), roll the dough ball into a circle about 5 mm thick. It doesn’t need to be perfect, but feel free to use a small plate to cut around if you find it easier.
Spoon a quarter of your vegetable and tofu mixture into the middle of the dough, leaving at least 1 to 2 cm space at the edge. Put a quarter teaspoon of margarine on top. This will help the vegetables cook inside the empanada.
Finally, fold one half over on top of the other and seal by crimping along the edge with a fork, or rolling the edge over as I have.
Place on your baking tray and cook in the middle of the oven for around 30 minutes.��

Make the day special by preparing bibingka and leche flan like a proper chef, baking our vegan empanadas (Pinoy pasties), or enjoying a meal out.��

After all, Filipinos always find a way to make any day a special day – as long as there’s good food and good company!

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Reframing Filipino attitudes towards fitness

Liezel Longboan — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:33:14 +0000

By Veronica Wilde

Why moving your body can feel harder than it should — and how we can change that, gently

As a health and fitness coach, I work with many Filipino mums and I hear the cultural challenges they face when it comes to health and fitness. I have a Filipino mum, and I’ve learned a lot from her over the years about resilience, sacrifice, and putting family first. Those values are deeply ingrained in me, and they shape not only how I live, but how I coach.

And while these values are something I respect and cherish, they can also quietly influence how we see health, fitness, and self-care, often without us even realising it.�� This isn’t about blame. It’s about understanding why certain habits exist — and how we can work with our culture, not against it.

Food as connection without the guilt

If you’re a Filipino mum, chances are you’ve grown up hearing some version of this:

“Anak, kain ka pa [Child, eat some more].”

For Filipinos, food is love. Food is care. Food is how we show up for one another. In many Filipino households, food sits at the centre of family life. Elders show care by offering more food. Saying no can feel disrespectful, ungrateful, or even hurtful.

I remember my mum telling my sister and me off for not finishing our food, reminding us that people in the Philippines were starving and that we should be grateful. That message sticks with you. Even as adults, it can create a deep sense of guilt around food, waste, and saying no.

I’ve coached women who feel torn between wanting to feel healthier and not wanting to offend family members. Others feel guilt for choosing smaller portions or different foods when everyone else is eating the same dishes.

One gentle reframe I often share is this: honouring your health does not mean rejecting your culture. It can look like balance, portion awareness, or choosing when and how often certain foods fit into your life — not cutting them out completely.

From self-sacrifice to self-care: Reclaiming your time

Another common theme I see is pride in being busy. Many Filipino mums are natural carers — for children, partners, elders, and extended family. Rest and personal time often come last.

This is something I live myself. I’m a mum to two teenage girls, and I also care for my own mum, often from afar. Like many women, I juggle work, parenting, emotional labour, and family responsibilities across generations – dealing with the latest “ate” based family drama from the motherland, I’m sure plenty of OFW and Filipinos like you will relate!

Exercise can often feel like a luxury, or worse, something selfish. But when movement is framed as another thing to add to an already full plate, it’s no surprise it gets pushed aside. That’s why I believe movement has to fit into real life — not wait for life to calm down.

Movement as medicine: Making fitness fit your Filipino lifestyle

Health doesn’t need to look like gym memberships, strict diets, or all-or-nothing routines.

For many Filipinos, sustainable fitness looks like:

Walking while catching up with family on the phone
Strength exercises at home using your own bodyweight
Dancing (like zumba) in the kitchen — because let’s be honest, Filipinos love to dance!

Short routines that fit between school runs and work

We don’t always realise it, but movement is already part of our culture. We celebrate through dance. We express joy through music. We move together.

I was reminded of this recently while listening to a Ted talk by psychiatrist Dr John Ratey, who speaks about how movement isn’t just good for the body — it’s essential for the brain. He describes exercise as “medicine” for mental health, improving mood, focus, and resilience.

That really stuck with me, especially when I think about women who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or constantly tired. Movement doesn’t have to be intense to be effective — it just has to be consistent and human.

If fitness has ever felt like something that wasn’t for you, it may not be about motivation or discipline at all. It may be about culture, expectations, and years of putting everyone else first.

Sometimes the most powerful shift is giving yourself permission to matter too.

About the Author

Veronica Wilde

Veronica “V” Wilde is a UK-based women’s health and fitness coach with over 20 years of experience. Both of her parents were born and raised in the Philippines, and her Filipino heritage strongly shapes her values around family, resilience, and community.

She specialises in helping busy women build strength, confidence, and sustainable habits through realistic training, lifestyle support, and accountability/habit based coaching. Connect with her on Instagram or Facebook.

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Savour the love: Where to book your Pinoy Valentine’s date in the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��

loriehalliday@gmail.com — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 12:27:36 +0000

This is sponsored content from D'Cocina, Lamesa Filipino Scottish Restaurant and APO Restobar.

Love is on the menu! Skip the last-minute stress and discover three dining spots perfect for Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or a ‘Galentine’s’ feast with friends, here is where to book for a memorable Pinoy dining experience.

is one of the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��’s top Filipino restaurants in the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� with locations in Greater Manchester, Birmingham and London. Check out their Filipino brunch, especially the classic silog, with tapa or longganisa.

��※��ǳ��Բ� is a lively Filipino restaurant in the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� serving food that’s rooted in flavour, comfort and authenticity. Inspired by the street food and home cooking of the Philippines, the menu features smoky barbecued meats, grilled skewers and a variety of well-loved Filipino favourites made for sharing.

It’s the kind of place where dishes arrive at the table to be enjoyed together, conversations run long, and everyone feels welcome. With its relaxed atmosphere and oh-so delicious food, ��※��ǳ��Բ� offers an easygoing introduction to Filipino cuisine—and a spot you’ll want to come back to again and again.

For those of you in Scotland, there’s in Perth to serve up the Filipino food you’ve been craving for. Bring everyone you love and sample the restaurant’s fusion of Scottish and Filipino cuisines. You’ll find Filipino favourites such as tuna kinilaw and Filipino tuna ceviche, as well as unique creations such as the restaurant’s Stornoway black pudding scotch egg and tapas dishes.

How about a comedy show, live music or karaoke, while enjoying your favourite Filipino dishes for a Valentine’s treat? You can laugh or sing along, while getting competitive in a “kamayan” (eating with your hands) at in London. Try their bestsellers, such as sisig, pata and chicharon bulaklak. This place has covered not just the delicious food, but all the fun for you, so check out its !��

Whether you’re dining at one of our picks or cooking a special feast at home, we’d love to see how the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� Filipino community celebrates love. Tag us in your photos @TinigUK or use the hashtag #TinigUKValentine for a chance to be featured in our and accounts!

The post Savour the love: Where to book your Pinoy Valentine’s date in the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� appeared first on 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��.

Your voice, our future: Take the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� Reader Survey 2026

Liezel Longboan — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 15:29:42 +0000

99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� will celebrate its sixth anniversary as a community social enterprise in 2026. This year, we are taking a bold step to refocus our mission so we can make a deeper, more meaningful difference to Filipinos across the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��. We can only do this by hearing directly from you.

Since 2020, 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� has worked to be a vibrant voice and essential hub for the Filipino community. We have shared original stories and insights, organised relevant events and training, and sought to reflect the rich and diverse experiences of the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� Filipino diaspora. Now, as we step into 2026, we are excited to launch a major new initiative: the first-ever .

What’s the aim of the survey?

Our community is changing, and so are its needs and interests. We want to be sure that the direction we take truly reflects what matters most to you. To serve you better, we need to understand your priorities, concerns, and aspirations.

Filipinos are rarely asked about our views as a community. This marks a pivotal moment — our commitment to staying relevant, impactful, and genuinely representative of Filipino voices across Britain.

What do we want to know?

We’d like to hear about the things that matter to you most:

How can we better support you as a Filipino living in the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��?
What stories do you want to read?
Which issues or topics are you most interested in — and why?
If 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� could offer one key service, what should it be?

How long is the survey?

The takes just 3–5 minutes. Your responses are confidential and will be used only to help improve our services for Filipinos and the wider Southeast Asian community in Britain.

What can I get out of the survey?

As a thank you for your time, participants who share their email will be entered into a prize draw to win a logo or business card design service, or 250 printed business cards worth £50 from Rise Research. You’ll also receive a complimentary PDF guide, How to Write an Effective Press Release, prepared by Liezel Longboan.

What does this mean for our community?

Your feedback will directly shape:

Our mission: helping us deliver the services and stories that truly matter to you.
Our future work: guiding who we collaborate with and how we develop community projects.
Community representation: ensuring Filipino voices, concerns, and achievements from all UK regions are heard and highlighted.

Together, we can ensure that 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� remains a powerful, positive force for Filipinos in the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� for many years to come.

Complete the today!

The post Your voice, our future: Take the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� Reader Survey 2026 appeared first on 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��.

Karaoke culture: Filipino voices needed

Liezel Longboan — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:02:06 +0000

Image generated by Gemini / Google AI

British filmmaker Craig Ellis with experiences across the BBC, Channel 4 and Discovery is creating an international documentary that explores karaoke’s deep roots in Filipino life. He is keen to understand what has been described as “My Way killings” with real context rather than sensationalism.

Craig wants to hear from the following:

Filipino and Filipino British journalists

Community members who understand karaoke culture

People with lived experience in the Philippines

Creatives who celebrate Filipiino identity and representation

This is an early development project with no obligation at this stage. Any future involvement or payment will be discussed in line with broadcast protocols.

Help ensure Filipino voices lead this story.

Please contact Craig at craigellis803@gmail.com

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A gentle start to January: How to build movement into your day

Liezel Longboan — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 11:06:07 +0000

By Veronica Wilde

January can feel like a strange month.

There’s pressure to start fresh, set big goals and “fix” everything — but many of us are still tired from December. The cold mornings don’t help and neither does the idea that we need a new gym gear or expensive memberships to begin again. As a health and fitness coach, I consider January as a time when I remind people of one thing above all else: be gentle with yourself.

This is not the month for extremes. It’s the month for small starts.

The most common challenge I see

One of the biggest challenges people face isn’t lack of motivation — it’s finding time.

“I’m too busy.”
“I don’t know where to fit it in.”
“I’ll start properly when life calms down.”

If you’re Filipino, this may sound familiar. Family comes first. Work is demanding. We look after everyone else before ourselves. Exercise often feels like a luxury rather than a necessity. But movement doesn’t need to mean long gym sessions or spending more money. It simply needs to be built into the life you already have.

Start where you are, not where you think you should be

One client I worked with last year came to me full of January enthusiasm. She planned five workouts a week, strict food rules and daily steps. Two weeks later, she was exhausted and frustrated.

We stripped everything back. Instead of five workouts, we agreed on two short home strength sessions, a 15-minute walk most days and five minutes of stretching in the evening. That was it and it worked!

No gym. No extra cost. No pressure.

Three months later, she was still consistent — had dropped body fat and was feeling stronger than she had in years. Small steps worked because they were realistic.

What gentle movement can look like

Movement does not have to be intense to be effective. Some of the most powerful habits are also the simplest: a 10–15 minute walk after lunch, stretching while watching TV, standing up and moving every hour or even the awareness of moving more in the house, or a short home workout using bodyweight.

Even five minutes counts, especially in January.

I’ve been in the fitness industry for over 20 years, and even I don’t go all-in in January. My routine is simple: I do some stretching and a quick workout before the day starts. I walk whenever I can and have short, focused strength sessions. I listen to my energy rather than forcing it. This is particularly important for women around their cycle.

Some days that’s more. Some days it’s less. And that’s okay!

Consistency doesn’t come from doing the most — it comes from doing what you can, repeatedly.

Three gentle ways to begin this January

Movement is not punishment. Exercise is not something you earn after overeating in December. It’s not a punishment for enjoying lechon, bibingka, or family celebrations. Movement is a way to care for your body so it can support you — for work, for family and for life.

If you’re not sure where to start, try just one of these:

��

- Walk for 15 minutes most days (consistency isn’t perfection – everyday)

- Stretch for five minutes before bed

- Choose one or two days a week for structured movement

That’s enough! January is about laying foundations, not proving anything.

Instead of asking, “What’s the fastest way to get fit?” try asking, “What’s the smallest step I can take today?”

Small steps, done kindly and consistently, lead to lasting change.

I’d love your input

As this is my first health and fitness column for 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��, I’d love to hear from readers.

What health topics would you like covered this year? What would you title this article?

To say thank you, I’m offering one free coaching session to a reader who gets in touch — no pressure, no obligation — simply a chance to ask questions, reset habits, or gain clarity on what would actually work for you.

Disclaimer:
Content published by 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, financial or professional advice. While we aim to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties as to completeness or reliability. Readers should seek appropriate professional advice for their individual circumstances.

About the author

Veronica “V” Wilde is a UK-based women’s health and fitness coach with over 20 years of experience. Both of her parents were born and raised in the Philippines and her Filipino heritage strongly shapes her values around family, resilience, and community.

The post A gentle start to January: How to build movement into your day appeared first on 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��.

In pictures: Filipinos add colour to London New Year’s Day parade 2026

Liezel Longboan — Sat, 03 Jan 2026 08:50:14 +0000

Braving the cold January weather, 200 Filipinos came together on the streets of central London on New Year’s Day 2026 to represent the Filipino community across Britain. Community leaders, nurses, doctors, carers, teachers, solicitors, beauty queens, young Filipinos, and performers — the group reflected the diverse and vibrant histories and contributions that make up the Filipino presence in the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��.

Some 8,000 participants from 20 countries joined the parade, considered as one of the biggest New Year’s day events in the world.

Filipinos’ participation in the London New Year’s Day Parade was both a celebration and a statement of presence — Filipinos are here, contributing, and proud to be seen. Organised by Errol Isip with the help of community leaders in different fields, the delegation was supported by Filipino businesses.

All photos by Andrea Santoni.

The post In pictures: Filipinos add colour to London New Year’s Day parade 2026 appeared first on 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��.

Filipino educator Edison David awarded MBE

Liezel Longboan — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 13:33:05 +0000

Credit: Edison David

By Liezel Longboan

Edison David, a London‑based Filipino educator, has been named Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2025 New Year Honours List for his outstanding contribution to education in the United Kingdom.

In the honours list published in The Gazette, David was recognised for his work as at Granton Primary School in Lambeth.

David, 53, is believed to be the first Filipino British person to receive an MBE in the field of education. Filipino nurses Brenda Deocampo and have been previously honoured with MBEs for their contributions to the nursing profession.

This prestigious accolade acknowledges individuals whose sustained commitment and service have made a significant, long‑term impact on their communities and fields.

Credit: Edison David

Speaking to 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��, David said, “This means a lot for my mum. This is the best Christmas gift I could ever give her.” Currently on holiday in Tarlac City, Philippines, with his family, David said his mum Minda, who is 83 and a retired teacher, was overjoyed by the news.

From Tarlac to London

Born in Tarlac City, David began his career as a public school teacher, where he developed the values of resilience, dedication and belief in the transformative power of education that have guided his work abroad.

After moving to the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��, David rose through the ranks to become executive headteacher at two Outstanding-rated primary schools in London’s Lambeth borough. Under his leadership, these schools achieved notable improvements in academic performance and community engagement, particularly among disadvantaged pupils.

Service to British society

Beyond individual schools, David has served as a lead inspector for Ofsted, helping strengthen standards across the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��’s education system. He has also advised other school leaders as a school improvement consultant, supporting strategies to enhance teaching quality and foster inclusive learning environments.

David’s influence extends to national policy. He has contributed to advisory groups under the Department for Education, offering expertise on leadership reforms and school improvement strategies that have helped shape education policy in England.

Raising the flag for Filipino educators

Reflecting on the MBE, David emphasised that the award is a recognition not just of his work, but of Filipino educators worldwide. “This award is not just for me — it is for every Filipino teacher working tirelessly in classrooms, whether here or back home,” he said. “I hope it inspires more of us to dream boldly, lead with purpose, and carry the Philippine flag with pride.”

David’s achievement also serves as a compelling reminder of the global influence of Filipino professionals. At a time when discussions on diversity, inclusion and representation are increasingly central to public discourse, his recognition underscores the vital role that educators from diverse backgrounds play in shaping the minds and futures of young learners worldwide.

The MBE will be formally conferred at a ceremony in the coming months. As the Filipino community celebrates this moment, Edison David’s story stands as a powerful testament to the contributions of Filipino talent on the world stage.

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Giant parol lights up Folkestone town centre

Liezel Longboan — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 11:54:08 +0000

From left: PTA officer Lauren James, Melissa Dizon, Saint Augustine headteacher Sarah Thomson and PTA officer Wynnona Kruger. Credit: Mel Dizon

A giant sustainable Christmas lantern inspired by the iconic Filipino parol is on public display in Folkestone, celebrating culture, community, and shared hope this festive season.

The project, titled Wish Upon a Giant Christmas Star, brought together local families, schools, businesses and volunteers, highlighting cultural diversity while giving children a platform to share their hopes for the future.

This year’s Giant Christmas Star features handwritten wishes from pupils of St Augustine Catholic Primary School in Hythe. Its outer finish is made from recycled Tesco bags, reinforcing the project’s message of environmental awareness and creative reuse.

Folkstone and Hythe MP Tony Vaughn visits the parol at the town centre.

A teacher helps a pupil stick his Christmas wish on the giant ecco-friendly parol.

“Among many Asian cultures, Filipinos remain one of the least visible in the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��. By sharing the parol, we invite our neighbours to know us better,” said Melissa Grace Dizon, community leader of the Folkestone & Hythe Filipino Community Network and lead organiser of the project.

“The parol reminds us that even in challenging times, we choose light, resilience, and a colourful future ahead,” she said.

The Filipino parol, derived from the Spanish word farol meaning lantern, traditionally symbolises the Star of Bethlehem and represents hope, unity, and guidance. Traditionally crafted from bamboo and paper, modern parols have evolved to include sustainable and recycled materials.

The handcrafted lantern is showcased at 53 Sandgate Road, Folkestone CT20 1NY (formerly Claire’s), in the heart of the town centre, and will remain on view throughout the Christmas period.

The Folkestone & Hythe Filipino Community Network (FHFCN) is a grassroots, community-led organisation dedicated to promoting Filipino culture, inclusion, and civic engagement across Folkestone, Hythe, and the wider Kent area.

Photo credit: Mel Dizon

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99re���߾�Ʒ����ŷ������

Manila’s Finest: Moira Lang on Memory, Policing and the Quiet Arrival of Martial Law

By Veronica Pedrosa

From independent cinema to an unlikely Christmas release

Manila as a testing ground

Making the film—against the odds

A film that resonates beyond the Philippines

What comes next

About the Author

Special Filipino recipes for Valentine’s Day

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Recipe: Royal Bibingka – Glutinous Rice Cake

Recipe: Leche Flan

Recipe: Vegan Empanadas / Pinoy Pasties

Reframing Filipino attitudes towards fitness

By Veronica Wilde

Why moving your body can feel harder than it should — and how we can change that, gently

Food as connection without the guilt

From self-sacrifice to self-care: Reclaiming your time

Movement as medicine: Making fitness fit your Filipino lifestyle

About the Author

Veronica Wilde

Savour the love: Where to book your Pinoy Valentine’s date in the 99re���߾�Ʒ����ŷ������

This is sponsored content from D'Cocina, Lamesa Filipino Scottish Restaurant and APO Restobar.

Your voice, our future: Take the 99re���߾�Ʒ����ŷ������ Reader Survey 2026

What’s the aim of the survey?

What do we want to know?

How long is the survey?

What can I get out of the survey?

What does this mean for our community?

Karaoke culture: Filipino voices needed

A gentle start to January: How to build movement into your day

By Veronica Wilde

The most common challenge I see

Start where you are, not where you think you should be

What gentle movement can look like

Three gentle ways to begin this January

I’d love your input

About the author

In pictures: Filipinos add colour to London New Year’s Day parade 2026

Filipino educator Edison David awarded MBE

By Liezel Longboan

Giant parol lights up Folkestone town centre

99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��

Savour the love: Where to book your Pinoy Valentine’s date in the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ��

Your voice, our future: Take the 99re��߾�Ʒ��ŷ�� Reader Survey 2026