The Philippines ushered in the New Year with a noticeable absence of explosive celebrations, leaving many to wonder if they accidentally stumbled into a silent film version of their usual boisterous festivities. 

Gone are the days when the country resembled a war zone, as journalist Maria Ressa once vividly described. Perhaps, realizing that real fireworks are so last year, Filipinos decided to let go of the black powder and embrace a quieter, more refined approach to starting afresh.

However, fear not, dear countrymen, for the absence of gunpowder was compensated by the earth-shattering fireworks of celebrity breakups (both real and perceived) and a splattering of new romantic sparks. The glittering skies may have been devoid of explosions, but the celebrity romance scene made sure to compensate with its own brand of drama. As we navigate this Year of the Dragon, the real pyrotechnics will unfold in the realm of “who’s in and who’s out,” guaranteeing a year-long supply of juicy water cooler and Starbucks coffee conversations. 

Cheers to a quieter but equally tumultuous year ahead!

(Photo collage from social media screenshots)