By Emmanuel Hamoy

Bulgari’s iconic Serpenti Collection is a testament to the maison’s ability to weave cultural symbolism and fine craftsmanship into jewelry and timepieces. Since its debut in the 1940s, the collection has embodied the elegance, mystique, and power of the serpent—a motif deeply rooted in mythology, art, and culture. In 2025, Bulgari’s Serpenti designs found renewed significance as the Chinese zodiac ushered in the Year of the Snake.

In Chinese astrology, the snake is revered as a symbol of wisdom, intuition, and transformation. Those born under the Year of the Snake are believed to possess a refined, enigmatic aura and an innate ability to adapt to life’s challenges. Bulgari’s Serpenti collection perfectly mirrors these qualities, blending the serpent’s sensual curves with bold design elements. Each piece—from coiling bracelets to striking necklaces and watches—captures the serpent’s duality as a figure of grace and strength.

The synergy between Bulgari’s craftsmanship and the symbolism of the snake was celebrated in 2013 with special edition Serpenti pieces. The designs showcased the maison’s expertise in combining colorful gemstones, intricate scales, and coiling shapes, echoing the serpent’s fluid movement and timeless allure. These creations paid tribute not only to the Chinese zodiac but also to Bulgari’s Italian heritage, renowned for its bold use of color and innovative designs.

Today, the Serpenti Collection remains an enduring icon of luxury and transformation. Its connection to the Year of the Snake enhances its allure for those who resonate with the snake’s symbolism, making it a coveted collection for connoisseurs and collectors alike. Through the Serpenti, Bulgari continues to celebrate the universal power of the serpent—a creature that transcends time, culture, and borders.

By Joanna Cuenco

June 13 – Cebu City | Danish lifestyle brand Flying Tiger Copenhagen has landed in Cebu, opening its first branch in the Philippines outside Metro Manila at the upper ground floor of SM Seaside City.  

Since its first store in Copenhagen in 1995, Flying Tiger has aimed to share products that not only look good, but make people feel good too. There’s something for everyone aged one to 100: toys, art materials, homeware, party supplies, workout gear, travel essentials, fashion accessories, and more. There will be fresh drops at the store every three to four weeks, so there’s always something exciting to look forward to and share with family and friends. 

Product designs range from minimalist and “aesthetic” to cute and kitschy. Find lifestyle essentials like food storage and home organizers, tea towels and toothbrush holders, to some awesome things you didn’t know you needed, like a handheld sewing machine and a beach chair for your phone. 

Even though the 200+ square meter space is fully stocked with hundreds of items, the store layout and neat display make it such a joy to look at all of the things and make the shopping experience easy and enjoyable. Flying Tiger believes a richer life does not cost a fortune, so items start at only P30, or even lower with some special promos.

The store opened with a traditional Danish cake-cutting ceremony with Jet Tan, Flying Tiger Copenhagen Store Operations Manager of APAC Region; Gladhys Rodriguez, Merchandising Manager of Flying Tiger Copenhagen Philippines; Billi Jin Esguerra-Perez, Marketing Manager of Flying Tiger Copenhagen Philippines; and JB Tan, Mall Manager of SM Seaside City Cebu. 

Zandra Len Salvador and Drew Sarmiento

Sarree Pimentel with Lian

Rizanne Tiongko, Joanna Cuenco and Anya Morrissey

Jen and Jas Sarmiento, Rere Dakay, Kirby Yu with Kayden

Jaja Chiongbian Rama with Sebi and Georgiana

Eleni Paray, Hazel Tirol and Mitchelle Lua

Flying Tiger is exclusively distributed in the Philippines by Stores Specialists, Inc., the country’s largest specialty retailer that handles a network of 593 stores and 94 brands, including some of the  most recognized names in the world.

Facebook: @FlyingTigerCopenhagenPH

Instagram: @flyingtigerph