If I only had the money, time, and the unlimited gate pass to get out of my house for yet another activity my mother would classify under “lakwatsa” (I prefer educational trip and cultivating activity), I would watch every show at the CCP.
Some people enjoy going to the theater to watch the Philippine’s finest performers sing, dance, or play their instruments. Some might prefer watching a play or a musical. Some might go to the CCP out of their love and enthusiasm for Philippine art and out of their desire to promote, develop, and protect Philippines culture while others might be barely awake, struggling to catch a few lines that they could use to make a reaction paper due the next morning.
Others prefer to stay outside and linger in the park.
The night is so alive outside the CCP. Couples speaking softly near the fountain, children playing in the grass, families lying on their mats under the trees, and people strolling around. If you walk a little father towards the Folk Arts Theater, you will see a big open space lines with bicycles and people riding in that open space with the voices of karaoke enthusiasts as their background.
If you are looking for a new way to spend your nights, if you are on a tight budget, or you just want to surprise yourself, your friends, or your date with a new experience, biking around the CCP might just be the break you need from all conventional night-outs.
For only P20.00 you can rent a bike for one hour. Sidecars are available for P40.00 and it is good for three people. You may also bring you own bike. For safety, just remember to stay within the marked areas. It is strongly advised to stay away from the Film Center not only because it is dark and spooky (it looks like ancient Egypt especially with those mummy cases things) but also because bicycles are confiscated by security guards in that area.
Parking is not a problem. Lots of parking are available for a flat rate of P30.00. Pay as you enter. Pay attention to the sign that reads “beware of bukas kotse gang.” Don’t forget to lock your doors.
Hungry? There a re a variety of foods in the complex. Barbeque and green mangoes are among the crowd favorites. Soft drinks and bottled water are available almost everywhere.
My family used to live in Pasay and the CCP is just one jeepney and one orange shuttle away from home. Now I live at the edge of NCR. I rarely go to the CCP for recreation. My childhood days were relived as the staff of [our magazine] went to the CCP biking area. I couldn’t resist those bikes lined up in front of me. I just had to hop on one even if it means riding in my high heels, not to mention getting my pants dirty from all the pedaling. And the grease. I really didn’t care anymore. This is one night I couldn’t miss to enjoy. I came across interesting characters during my short ride. A man was teaching a woman how to ride a bike. A father was doing the same to his young daughter. Children as well as teenagers were riding in groups. There were several going solo, just like me.
Despite the serene setting, I am occasionally worries that someone might just hit me from the sides, or from behind ore even head-on. People were just going everywhere, in no particular direction. I could be in danger. I had to get out of there. Besides, going around in circles, in one direction isn’t very fun. The night is young and I am 30 kilometers away from home. I didn’t want any tire marks on my clothes.
Riding outside is much easier and relatively safer. There are lanes you could (should) follow and humps that slow your speed when you are going to fast. Vendors seem to follow you everywhere. You won’t get hungry.
Biking around the CCP Complex is an inexpensive and relaxing way to spend you evening. It is also a good form of exercise. After watching a show at the CCP, why don’t you get on a bike and get in touch with nature and yourself?
You could even get some extra treats. February is the National Arts Month. The CCP has lined up free concerts at the open space in front of the fountain. Last weekend they featured Joey Ayala, Grace Nono, and other artists. Visit the CCP to find out who are next in line. And while you’re at it, try those bikes, there are at least a hundred of them waiting for you.
Along with the recent clamor for Stephen Speaks concert tickets came the realization that I haven’t been to any concert of that kind. I would like to believe that I had a normal childhood and my youth so far is okay and well spent but I’m beginning to wonder if I might be missing a lot. “ I haven’t been to any concert of a well-known international band or artist,” I carelessly declared to my boyfriend without considering and possible effects of my announcement. Realizing that I’m not being myself, I immediately discarded the idea of a further discussion. After a couple of days he told me that he is getting tickets for the Boyz 2 Men concert. I am not really enthusiastic about it instead, I suggested we just watch a show at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and avail of the student discount. Then we could go biking around the CCP complex afterwards. Sounds exciting. 
The CCP is one of the most beautiful sights along Roxas Boulevard especially at night when there is a show at the Main Theater. The fountain is then turned on. The water sparkles as it dances and catches the rays of colored lights that surround it. Couples are drawn to this romantic atmosphere. Children play on the grass and enjoys the view as well. Within a few minutes after sunset, motorists along Roxas Boulevard could see silhouettes against a glorious backdrop of lights and dancing water.
All in one cup
A family affair
Metamorphosis
Definitely not for kids
Singing the night away
Night out with drinks