Youth Explosion : The Mayward Phenomenon

Edward Barber and MayMay Entrata take us on a romantic yet psychedelic stroll along the historic streets of Escolta in Manila, memorably juxtaposed with their signature youthful charms and refreshing, “feel-good” chemistry.

- Grace Diez

There’s something about Escolta in the city of Manila that simply provokes a feeling of nostalgia—a stirring in the heart to keep the memory of Old Manila alive in this fast-changing world. 

Looking past the heat and the frenetic quotidian activities along the streets of Escolta, the main street is beautifully marked with architectural landmarks boasting of art deco and neoclassical designs, transporting you to an era where art, history, and opulence seamlessly existed together and created glorious and historic moments.

Escolta was once the center of the Philippines’ many firsts—it was home to the country’s first elevator, first tranvia, first savings bank, and even the very first ice cream parlor. In the past, it was a vibrant street filled with vast potential that just faded with time. Thankfully, Escolta is now being revitalized with the arrival of young people seeing it as an ideal, cultural, and commercial hub for aspiring artists, giving the place a cool, hip vibe.

As soon as Pinoy Big Brother’s (PBB) rising stars Edward Barber and MayMay Entrata (“MayWard”) stepped onto the streets of Escolta, the dynamic duo enlivened the historic area, garbed in their fabulous Mark Bumgarner and Francis Libiran outfits while giving out fierce poses for the fashion shoot—at times happily dancing and twirling to fun ’70s music in-between shots. Clearly, they are each other’s mood maker.