I was on a recent visit to Manila and really needed a bangs trim (or so I thought). After having dinner at Jin Joo Glorietta 4, I casually mentioned my "need" to my relatives. A couple of them recommended that I get my quick fix at the Bench Fix Salon on the second floor. Up the stairs I went and was greeted by the receptionist, who mentioned that the price for the trim was PhP 500--no problem.
I was then pleasantly greeted by senior stylist Roland, who sat me in the chair and started chatting with me about why I was looking for a bangs trim. He began combing through my hair with his fingers, expertly analyzing the cut and the layers. I knew right then that he was no slouch--that he could make my cut much better. And voilà! He asked if I'd consider some shaping instead, as the rate was the same. Honestly, the price was secondary to me. I was already impressed with the way Roland handled my hair while analyzing it. So the answer was "Yes."
I love that there was a different person who shampooed my hair--the massage was amazing. I sadly forgot her name. She has been at this location for 10 years. I want to emphasize that her role is serving as a partner to Roland. She preps clients like me. She also did the blow‑dry after the cut, at which point Roland came back in and started doing finishing touches to my hair at the tail end of the drying.
The result? More life. More modern cut. More style. More swing. He didn't even remove an inch of length--just added shape overall. I loved it.
I wish I could be at this place every month. I then resolved to:
1. change my stylist when I get back to the US--someone who can follow this cut; and
2. return to this location on my next visit--asking for Roland in particular.
I also recommended him right away to a couple of relatives and friends in Manila.
What a find. read more