How Filipinos celebrate Valentine’s Day today

In the Philippines, Valentine’s Day holds a unique place among celebrations, similar to Christmas and New Year, despite not being an official holiday. Known for valuing strong bonds of family and friends, Filipinos celebrate Valentine’s Day to show affection to their loved ones.

In the same light, Filipinos are renowned for creativity in expressing love, from the classic harana to modern-day romantic dates. Whether spending an afternoon at the park or gathering in a fancy restaurant, Filipinos make the day a festive occasion to create unforgettable memories.

As early as the first week of February, the streets, shops, and establishments are adorned with heart decorations and flowers, creating an atmosphere of love. People flock to Dangwa Flower Market, one of the busiest areas in Manila during Valentine’s Day, to purchase bouquet arrangements by the dozens. Additionally, restaurants and dining destinations have been booked in advance, anticipating the influx of diners for Valentine’s Day.

“Valentine’s dates started early this year. Since Feb. 14 falls on a weekday—and on Ash Wednesday at that—we’ve noticed that many couples started celebrating as early as the previous weekend,” shared Spanky Hizon Enriquez of Restaurant Owners of the Philippines (Resto PH).

“We also expect this to be the most ‘normal’ Valentine’s since 2020. The fears of the pandemic have completely dissipated, and record numbers are expected in restaurants all over the country. Couples, and families, are ready to really go out and go all out this week, traffic notwithstanding,” he continued.

“The traditions still dominate on Valentine’s. Cafe Ysabel and Caruso offer classic menus for couples, with a fine selection of wine. The more intimate the setting, the better for couples,” Spanky said. “Chef-driven collaborations are the most interesting new trend: James Antolin x Buddy Trinidad x Carlo Miguel in a one-night-only event at Ikomai is certainly the most anticipated. And yes, so many restaurants and stores are offering strawberry-based desserts this year!”

As for Valentine’s gifts, Filipinos have distinct preferences, with money topping the list, according to a survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) conducted from Dec. 8 to 11, 2023. Filipinos also preferred love and companionship, receiving 11 percent of votes, flowers at 10 percent, and apparel at 9 percent.

SWS pointed out that both men and women expressed an equal desire for love and companionship. The survey also delved into the satisfaction levels of Filipinos with their love lives, revealing that the majority (58 percent) were “very happy with their love life.”

Whether expressing love through traditional gestures or embracing modern festivities, Filipinos continue to celebrate the essence of Valentine’s Day with enthusiasm and a commitment to creating lasting memories. — Rey G. Ilagan

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Credit belongs to: www.mb.com.ph