Struggle is celebrated in THE Clothing's Summer 2016 Collection

Local streetwear scene staple THE Clothing ends the month of April with their Summer 2016 Delivery 2 Collection. This drop consists of four shirts that center around two themes. Up first is the ACAB, a commentary on the common misconception about skating being a ragtag's tomfoolery of choice. It features an artist's rendition of two cops beating down a skater. The next one is a reminder to the independents, the Carry Your Own Cross. Here, THE focuses on the struggle as an integral part of forging one's own path. The collection is now available at their shop in Unit 4A, Cubao Expo, Gen.Romulo Ave, Quezon City.

A flawless blend of musicality through Snowflake Obsidian by Kidthrones and Curtismith

Straight off recently released EPs, Logiclub producer Eric Trono a.k.a Kidthrones and celebrated hiphop rookie, Curtismith, have dropped their first collaboration with "Snowflake Obsidian". The former debuted his first EP, entitled "IKIGAI" in the recently concluded Malasimbo Festival, while the latter has just released his Lookin Up music video from his follow-up EP, Failing Forward. Kidthrones' penchant for ambient synth-pop and new age hip hop, laced with hints of sounds from nature and the city are unmistakably present in the track. This, coupled with Curtismith's seamless flow of words and relentless rhyme and rhythm make for a smooth and sultry single we never knew we needed.

She-one-in-a-milla. Snowflake obsidian. Listen for yourself and have this song stuck in your head for hours on end.

Tropical Paradise courtesy of Herschel Supply Co. Spring/Summer 2016

The summer season is officially in place, not only because the unavoidable burning weather is felt daily, but also because of the various Spring/Summer collections being launched nonstop. And to join the launching party, the internationally-acclaimed lifestyle carry brand, Herschel Supply Co. just recently released their collection for the season. Filled with colors and patterns, the pieces in the collection embody the beauty and atmosphere of spring and summer through vibrant skies and palm fringed sanctuaries. The designs are carefully made to fit their classic silhouettes, alongside new ones like the Iona, Bamfield, and more. The collection also comes with other offerings under their headwear and accessories departments, plus a selection from this season's Herschel Supply Co. Studio Collection. Find the full line in all Herschel Supply Co. stores and retailers nationwide.

A Spotlight on Almusal at the Madrid Fusion Manila 2016 Visayas Regional Lunch

Photos from Pepper.ph

Madrid Fusion Manila is the first and only Asian edition of the most important international gastronomy congress in the world that is held annually in Madrid since 2003. MFM's first edition with the theme: "The Philippines and Spain: A 300-year Gastronomic Journey", was only held last year; and for 2016, the theme: "The Manila Galleon: East meets West" was tackled with presentations from distinguished guests coming from different parts of the globe. What made the event more exciting, however, were the regional lunches featuring the iconic dishes of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

On Day 2 of the three-day congress, Visayan traditional dishes took center stage. Knowing that Almusal (breakfast) has a special place in the hearts of Filipinos, however, the lunch had it for the sub-theme. Dishes that are traditionally seen on a Visayan breakfast table were given modern and innovative takes, transforming the "simple and humble" into sophisticated profiles. Where else would one see a lamb version of the traditional tapa or a Wagyu beef version brined in coffee and coco sugar? Or Dinuguan Longganisa and Sisig fritters? Take a closer look on the dishes gracing this sumptuous buffet here.

Chefs who presented include: Chefs Margarita Fores, Francis Lim, Rob Pengson, and Don Colmenares. Pedro Brewcrafters and Magnum Opus coffee, on the other hand, took over the beverages.

Kitama Wagyu Beef Tapa Brined in Coffee and Coco Sugar with Pickled Kamias and Quail Egg 

by Chef Francis Lim

 Dinuguan Longganisa at Puto by Chef Ed Bugia

Sisig Fritters with Spicy Herb Duck Aiolo by Chef Karla Mendoza

Local Independent Films made more accessible through iflix

Local independent films were hard to come by - one had to wait for local film festivals, special movie screenings or events, for the slightest chance of even getting tickets - and for fans of these artists, both on and off the screen, these films aren't to be missed. Because of this, iflix provided a new platform for local independent cinema with #madeINDIEphilippines. Local indie films are now more accessible as supporters need not visit the nearest movie theater to catch the latest of Pinoy indie, they only have to go online and get on iflix. Local indie films such as Ang Kwento ni Mabuti, Ang Huling Cha Cha ni Anita, Dagitb, Thy Womb, Kinatay, etc. are now available for streaming.

#madeINDIEphilippines was launched last April 12 at Black Market with a screening of short films, musical performances by movie scorers and indie musicians, and a panel discussion featuring leaders of Philippine independent cinema: Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, Victor Villanueva, Sari Dalena, Armi Cacanindin, Wincy Ong, Albert Almendralejo, Mark Meily, and Bianca Balbuena.

Reese Lansangan sits down with Team Manila

Photos by Shutter Panda Photography and Andrea Beldua

Musician, collage artist, and all around creative Reese Lansangan continues to chase her passions, all the while having the spotlight shine on her. Team Manila recently sat down with Lansangan to answer a few questions about her herself and her music.

Reese has consistently been caught in the spotlight, whether it be for her art, her fashion sense, or her music. Lansangan recently lended her musical chops for Jason Magbanua’s nuptial video for Vic Sotto and Pauline Luna’s wedding. Written, performed, and arranged with the help of Choi Padilla and Allen Articulo, Reese Lansangan’s “Home” was the music used for the video. In her Facebook page, she said that “It's not every day that I am given the chance to tell a story other than my own silly thoughts and daily explorations,” and that “it's an honor to be allowed to paint their love story - in my own way.” Through her eclectic endeavors, she remains humble. Learn more about her in the interview with Team Manila here.

Check her Facebook page here and her website here.

Lightweight and Versatility with Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II Knit Collection

In a continuous development of the classic Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, the brand explores the knit with Chuck II with their newest collection. Inspired by music, festivals in particular, the colors used are direct representation of the kaleidoscopic lights seen in music shows and concerts. The collection comes in the All Star High and Low with exclusive colors. The pairs still boast the Lunarlon sockliner for extreme comfort, paired with knit material to become lightweight even more and adds flexibility to movement. The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II Knit Collection is now available in all Converse retailers nationwide.

Team Manila releases Urban Explorer Bags Collection

Team Manila has recently released its line of bags designed for the city traveler. TM's Urban Explorer bags are made of Cordura fabric which is known for its reliability and resilience - the right quality to withstand the hustle and bustle of the metro. Urban Explorer comes in different varieties: MNL Academy rucksack and backpack which come in two colors, and the Park Life utility pack, SQ pack, and messenger bag which come in three colors. In terms of tones, one can also choose from monochromatic to more vibrant palettes. Have a closer look at the collection here.