I SPY.

MANILA, Philippines - If the sweat trickling down my back is not an indication that summer is officially here, then the eagerness to down ice cold beers from 3 p.m. onwards definitely makes it official.

Of course, if we were all beautiful dirty rich, then day jobs would be a foreign concept, but as it is, the quench for uninhibitedness can only be satisfied when the sun goes down. Thank goodness for alternative spots that offer an indie night out when you’re just too freakin’ tired to put on killer heels and a sweet disposition. Admit it, we need those gritty moments sometimes, and for us here in the CBD of accessibility, in other words Makati, The Collective offers just that and more.

Saturday saw me and the friends at this warehouse-turned-hangout destination. It was sweaty, dancey, drinkies at B side with Dubstep DJ sets and drinks that came in teapots. Clustered around the open courtyard were spaces that served as galleries and stores selling everything from bespoke clothes, to toys to vinyl records. Interesting! Aiming for a lifestyle community, The Collective isn’t fully open yet with some areas still under construction, but as it is, it’s already heaving, with an easy free-spirited vibe and no pretensions. Great. Because all you need to worry about now is getting smashed, busting out those moves, and generally just letting go and having fun.

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The Collective is at 7274 Malugay St. San Antonio Village, Makati.