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Hello my name is Rachelle Khylle R. Albastro, a BS Psychology 2nd Year Student in Mapua Malayan Colleges Mindanao. My nickname is Rae, because people say I am a ray of sunshine! As a proud Filipino, I love exploring different aspects of Philippine pop culture. First, one of my favorite sports to do is play volleyball, whether it's a friendly match with friends or a competitive game especially in School Tournaments. Second, when it comes to Philippine TV shows, I really enjoy watching Maria Clara at Ibarra because of its unique take on history and culture. Third, I'm also a big fan of Maki as his music always hits the right emotions and makes my playlists even better. Fourth, singing karaoke with my friends is one of my go-to pastimes; nothing beats belting out OPM hits and having a good laugh. Fifth, when it comes to Food, I can never say no to a warm, flavorful plate of chicken curry especially when my father occasionally cooks it for dinner. And lastly, when I want to bond with my cousins, our favorite board game to do is to play sungka, a classic Filipino board game that brings back childhood memories. And with all these things, it make me appreciate the beauty of Filipino culture even more!

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If there was a Philippine Pop Culture that I would feature, I would most definitely show my love of exploring. Especially through tourist spots in the Philippines, specifically with the beautiful beaches in Mindanao. From the crystal-clear waters of Siargao to the hidden gems of beaches in Samal Resorts, I enjoy discovering new places and experiencing the natural beauty of my country. Social media and travel vlogs often inspire me to visit trending destinations, making me appreciate how Filipino pop culture influences tourism. I also love how local beaches are often featured in movies and TV shows, making them even more exciting to visit. For me, traveling to these stunning spots isn’t just about relaxing but it is also a way to connect with Filipino culture and traditions.

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Exploring tourist spots, especially the stunning beaches of Mindanao, has become a significant part of contemporary Philippine pop culture, influencing social behavior, economy, and media trends. Framing this phenomenon through the Uses and Gratifications Theory, people engage in travel not only for leisure but also for self-expression, social interaction, and cultural appreciation. Social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram have transformed how Filipinos experience tourism, as many are motivated to visit destinations after seeing viral posts or celebrity endorsements. This shift has led to an increased demand for local travel, benefiting small businesses, promoting eco-tourism, and strengthening regional pride. Through the lens of pop culture, traveling becomes more than just an activity, as it turns into a shared experience that connects Filipinos to their heritage while also shaping new cultural narratives.

Moreover, this trend drives change in media and marketing, influencing how destinations are promoted and perceived. Local governments and tourism agencies now collaborate with influencers and content creators to showcase hidden gems, proving the power of pop culture in setting travel trends. The digital era allows Filipinos to be active participants in shaping tourism culture, as people rely on peer-generated content rather than traditional advertisements. This shift highlights how contemporary pop culture gives individuals greater control over what they consume and engage with, rather than simply being passive audiences. Ultimately, the rise of travel culture in the Philippines, especially in Mindanao, demonstrates how Uses and Gratifications Theory applies to modern tourism, where people seek entertainment, identity, and social belonging through their travel experiences.