

A peek between the covers: Quirky bookish customs of Southeast Asians
Reading may seem like a simple pastime, but in Southeast Asia, it’s more than just flipping pages. Across the region’s 11 countries, people have found creative and meaningful ways to celebrate books and storytelling. From social media trends to centuries-old manuscripts, here are fascinating customs that show how Southeast Asians bring literature to life. 1. From pocketbooks to Wattpad: The Philippines’ pop culture phenomenon Filipinos have a strong connection with stories—wh

Colin Cris Celestial
Aug 28


Gushes of Red
A poetic appeal for saving lives Weak limbs, slow heartbeat Eyes are too tired to glimpse, living but difficult to breathe Red flows are...

Colin Cris Celestial
Aug 13


Filipino viand or ulam that bring comfort during the rainy season
OMG! It’s raining cats and dogs! Cold air is creeping into every corner of the room. :( Filipinos often seek warmth and coziness when...

Colin Cris Celestial
Jul 16


Filipino work-from-home habits that boost rainy productivity
Uh-oh, it’s raining! But what about work? Work-from-home professionals in the Philippines often find their bed’s soft mattress calling...

Colin Cris Celestial
Jun 24


Old beliefs, new times: Filipino superstitions that still puzzle our lives
In the Filipino community, some traditions continue to influence daily life—no matter how unusual they may seem. Being told not to take a...

Colin Cris Celestial
Apr 26


The special journey
A reflective piece of a difficult journey to remember. The heat of the sun's rays touched my skin while I was struggling to breathe. The...

Colin Cris Celestial
Apr 17


Filipinos good-to-go tips to turn your break into a breakthrough
The value of growth can be grasped and experienced while you're on vacation, exploring new hobbies, experiencing rewarding moments, or...

Colin Cris Celestial
Mar 25


BPO in the Philippines: From job myths to career wins
One of the most common misconceptions about working in the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry in the Philippines is that it is a...

Colin Cris Celestial
Mar 10


The Unusual Past
I lost track of counting how many menacing gazes were transfixed on the powerful man who was standing firm and proud. Everybody...

Colin Cris Celestial
Feb 23


When the sun blazes or the rains pour: 5 ways to enjoy staying indoors
Filipinos continue to experience ever-changing weather patterns, from scorching hot days to sudden downpours and cool breezes. During...

Colin Cris Celestial
Jan 24


The Broken Bond
The sun visibly rises when the morning comes at quarter to 6. I had to sip silently on the edge of the mug filled with hot coffee while...

Colin Cris Celestial
Dec 16, 2024


Shadows of Memory
After embracing and genuinely exchanging smiles with each other, I suddenly notice a disturbing scene happening near our side. I saw one...

Colin Cris Celestial
Dec 10, 2024


Our True Love
Surreal and overwhelming time fleets over the years magical love was redeemed Our red strings feel everlasting holding each heart...

Colin Cris Celestial
Dec 6, 2024


An Odd Wish
One turn feels strange the world slows its spinning space as curious gaze met each other seeing one's reflection with puzzled and...

Colin Cris Celestial
Dec 2, 2024


Lies in You
It is no magic but purely resemblance of quest and guess Thinking about what the next steps are after the passing of yesterday having...

Colin Cris Celestial
Nov 19, 2024




