Every spring, a familiar pattern is in Filipino travel data: Japan tops the list, again and again. According to recent insights from travel platform Klook, Japan remains the most sought-after spring destination among Filipino travelers; a title it has held for several years running, and one that shows no signs of slipping.

Colorism in the Philippines isn't some vague, unsourced prejudice. It has a documented origin: centuries of Spanish and American colonization positioned lighter skin as closer to power, education, and respectability, while darker skin, the typical skin of farmers, laborers, and the working class, was coded as ‘lesser.’

Paris Olympian John Cabang Tolentino wins bronze in the 110m hurdles at the 2026 Asian Games, ending a decades-long medal drought for Filipino male hurdlers.