I. The Story so Far 

Since our beginnings in April 2017, we've aimed to create a space where people could be themselves without fear of repercussions—a place where "What happens at Filthy Friday stays at Filthy Friday." This principle was the cornerstone of our early days, fostering an environment of freedom and authenticity. Over time, our journey didn’t always follow a straight path. We explored different avenues, sometimes veering from our original ethos by embracing the allure of social media and user-generated content. We believed it could enhance our community, but we realized that this shift was pulling us away from the very essence that made Filthy Friday unique. 

II. Screw the Algorithm 

Today, we are rapidly becoming ‘tech-vexed’-–relentlessly seduced by computerized life, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Let’s face it--we've all been sucked into it at some point. We've all felt that emptiness, that 'junktime' dragging us down. By now, it’s clear: if the medium is the message, then social media's message is dangerous and potentially destructive. Its maze of selfies, humblebrags, and endless ads commodifies our attention and destroys our focus. It replaces what matters with what doesn’t and hijacks our sense of identity and capacity for deep, meaningful connections—the foundations of human life. 

But it doesn't have to be that way. It's not just possible—it’s necessary—to step off the treadmill of triviality and focus on what truly matters. In a world overloaded with digital noise and shallow connections, we’ve decided to shake things up. We're cutting through the clutter, breaking down distractions, and reclaiming authenticity by dismantling the superficial and building something real--our own brand of creative rebellion. 

It's time to make a stand. We're going against the grain, choosing not to feed the cycle of meaningless content. We believe algorithms are not--and should not be--the gods of our age. Our worth will not be determined by them. Our story won’t be told by them.  

III. What Truly Matters 

So, instead of wasting our energy chasing likes and followers, we're focusing on what truly matters: Building Real Connections: We're teaming up with people and organizations that spread joy and strengthen our community. Supporting local football clubs like Bocas FC and Unión Bocas Isla (UBI) isn't just about sports—it's about bringing people together and celebrating what makes us unique. 

Investing in the Future: Big words, bigger actions. We support Escuela Solarte and run a Breakfast Program that feeds over 70 kids throughout the school year, putting our money where our mouth is and investing in a brighter future. 

Partnership with XYZ organization

Partnership with XYZ agency 

Bro Business Network? 

Creating Authentic Experiences: Our events are about raw, unfiltered fun—no filters, no fake smiles, just pure joy. Rooted in Panamanian and Bocas culture and enriched by influences from around the world, we're focused on music, connection, and moments that make you feel alive. 

IV. Our (Anti) Social Media Approach 

Our journey taught us valuable lessons. While we once gave a big space to user-generated content in our strategy, we discovered that true connection isn't found through a screen. In all honesty, we’ve never really liked influencers. Actually, we've always felt the pull to limit phone use at our events, even implementing it during several months of 2022. These efforts weren't just reactions but reflections of our core belief that genuine experiences trump digital representations. 

Now, we're reaffirming our commitment to our original ethos: 

Less Is More: We'll use social media for what it's good for—letting you know when and where the party is, answering your questions, and that's about it. No spam, no fluff, no mindless scrolling required. 

Quality Over Quantity: If we share something, it's because it matters—not because we're trying to game the system. 

Real Interaction: We prefer high-fives over likes, real conversations over comments, and unforgettable experiences over forgettable posts. We crave the magic that happens when people come together—the spontaneous laughter, the shared stories, the electric energy that can't be captured through a screen. 

V. Word of Mouth. Full stop. 

We believe that when something's real, you talk about it—in person. When experiences resonate, they don't need a hashtag to make an impact. We're counting on you to share your stories because they meant something to you—not because we asked you to tag us, but because we're all part of this journey toward something real. 

VI. Question Everything—Including Us 

Here at Filthy Friday, we've got nothing to hide. We embrace the bravery of self-defense against the pull of ignorance. We believe our world needs to wake up from its cultural and intellectual slumber before we sleepwalk into an Orwellian dystopia. 

But above all, we're not here to preach or pretend we've got all the answers. In the spirit that dates back to the Buddha himself, we encourage you to question everything—even this manifesto. Think for yourself, challenge the establishment, and don't wait for anyone—including us—to tell you how to live your life. 

In true punk spirit, we're all in this together, figuring it out as we go. As Joe Strummer said, “The future is unwritten.” Let's write it together. 

VII. Closing the Circle 

Our evolution has been a journey of discovery—a sometimes winding road that has led us back to our foundational values. We're closing the circle, not by erasing the past, but by embracing it as part of our story. This return signifies our maturity, confidence, and certainty in who we are and what we stand for. 

VIII. Moving Forward Together 

This isn't just a manifesto; it's an invitation. By aligning our actions with our beliefs, we're not just building a community—we 're starting a movement that values substance over superficiality. What we’re doing is countercultural, because it challenges the very core of our socioeconomic machinery –-the quick-fix, instant-results model to which so many of our lives are tethered. But we’re willing to take the risk. And we invite you to take it with us. As Merchants of Happiness, we're choosing real-world connections over virtual impressions. But we can't do this alone. Together, we can spark a change that resonates far beyond our shores. 

IX. Your Call  

The choice is yours: keep scrolling through curated illusions, or dive into authentic experiences that make you feel truly alive. We're here in Bocas del Toro, making waves—literally and figuratively—and we'd love for you to be part of it. Just remember: What happens at Filthy Friday stays at Filthy Friday! 

There is a vibrant world beyond this screen. We’re waiting for you there.  

With Love, 

The Filthy Friday Family