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Php 20 Rice? Yes, in Daanbantayan!

The local government unit (LGU) of the Municipality of Daanbantayan recently launched the Php 20.00 Rice Per Kilo Program, an initiative aimed at helping residents, especially those who cannot afford regular market prices. Rice is one of the primary staple foods in the country. In urban areas, rice consumption accounts for 93% to 95%, while in rural areas, about 71% of households still purchase rice from the market. On average, Filipinos consume approximately 118 kilograms of rice per year.

Photo from Municipality of Daanbantayan

Only Those With QR-Coded Beneficiary Cards Can Avail

 The LGU provides 10 kilos of rice per week to beneficiaries. To purchase the rice, all beneficiaries are required to present their QR code for verification. After the purchase, an official cash receipt will be issued as proof of payment.

Photo from Municipality of Daanbantayan

To secure a QR-coded Beneficiary Card, kindly submit your National ID or any valid government-issued ID to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) for processing.

Photo from Municipality of Daanbantayan

Priority Beneficiaries and Eligible Recipients

  • PRIORITY BENEFICIARIES
    • Persons with Disabilities (PWD)
    • Solo Parents
    • Senior Citizens
  • ELIGIBLE RECIPIENTS
    • Barangay Health Workers (BHW)
    • Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS)
    • Day Car e Workers (DCW)
    • GAD Focal Persons
    • BAHA Members
    • Barangay Tanods
    • Lupong Tagapamayapa Members
    • Traffic Enforcers
    • Public School Teachers (Teaching and Non-Teaching Staff)
    • DRRM Personnel
    • Bantay Dagat Volunteers
    • Public Hospital Workers
    • Barangay Officials
    • And other individuals who are assessed to be in urgent need

Just in Time for the Election, Says Netizens

Photo from Municipality of Daanbantayan
Photo from Municipality of Daanbantayan

Some netizens think that the LGU’s initiative was conveniently timed for the election. It does seem a bit sketchy. Are they up to something? Why did they schedule it for this month—was it just a coincidence? Well, we shouldn’t jump to conclusions yet, but it is a commendable initiative.

What about you? What are your thoughts on this?

Curveballs & Conspiracies: The ’90s Plot Twists That Left Us Reeling

It’s that time of the summer again where we stay indoors with a good thrilling movie playing…

Photo from Canva

Ah, the ’90s—a decade of some of the best movies ever made. From pop culture phenomena to spy thrillers and wild conspiracies, to discovering that the life you knew was actually the set of a reality show, the ’90s delivered unforgettable cinematic surprises. Let’s dive into the films that left us in disbelief after seeing them on the big screen.

Photo from Unsplash

The Sixth Sense (1999)

“I see dead people.”

Photo from IMDb

One of the most iconic lines of the decade, this quote became a staple of ’90s pop culture. The Sixth Sense, directed by M. Night Shyamalan and starring Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment, follows child psychologist Malcolm Crowe as he helps Cole Sear—a boy who claims he can see and communicate with the dead. Thanks to its masterful storytelling and shocking plot twist, the film became a cultural phenomenon.

Fight Club (1999)

“The first rule of Fight Club is: You do not talk about Fight Club.”

Photo from IMDb

Another ’90s cultural landmark, Fight Club is based on the novel by Chuck Palahniuk and directed by David Fincher. The psychological drama stars Edward Norton and Brad Pitt. The twist? They’re the same person. Tyler Durden is the protagonist’s alter ego—manifested by his suppressed emotions and frustrations as a way to escape his mundane life. With constant foreshadowing and a shocking climax, the film leaves viewers reeling.

The Truman Show (1998)

“I’m not a performer. I’m Truman Burbank!”

Photo from IMDb

What if your entire life was just a show? In this psychological comedy-drama, Jim Carrey plays Truman, a man who has unknowingly lived his entire life inside a massive reality TV set. As Truman begins to notice inconsistencies in his world, he slowly uncovers the truth and searches for a way to escape.

Pulp Fiction (1994)

Photo from IMDb

Considered one of the most influential films of the ’90s, Pulp Fiction shocked audiences with its unexpected plot turns and unconventional storytelling. Director Quentin Tarantino’s signature style—nonlinear narrative and razor-sharp dialogue—creates a film that feels like a puzzle, jumping between scenes until everything finally comes together.

Mission: Impossible (1996)

“Good morning, Mr. Hunt.”

Photo from IMDb

Directed by Brian De Palma, the first film in the Mission: Impossible franchise introduced audiences to the world of high-stakes espionage. The story follows Ethan Hunt, a spy who is framed for the deaths of his teammates and mentor, Jim Phelps. Filled with plot twists and betrayals, the movie keeps audiences guessing about who can be trusted as Hunt races to clear his name while evading capture by the Impossible Mission Force (IMF).

These unforgettable ’90s films didn’t just entertain, they redefined storytelling with twists that caught us completely off guard. So grab some popcorn, queue up your favorite titles, and get ready to relive the shock, suspense, and surprise all over again. And hey—don’t keep the twists to yourself. Share this list with a fellow movie lover and start a conversation about your favorite jaw-dropping moments!

From Shadows to Spotlight: Marvel’s Rogue Heroes Redefining Justice in Thunderbolts

Have you ever wondered what would happen if a group of rogue individuals came together to fight for justice—with a pinch of chaotic humor? Well, get ready to assemble because Thunderbolts is gearing up.

Photo from IMDb

Directed by Jake Schreier, Thunderbolts introduces a fresh concept where anti-heroes finally take center stage. The film is set to release on May 2, 2025. It follows Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, Taskmaster, and John Walker as they embark on a dangerous mission that forces them to confront the darkest corners of their pasts.

Rogue Team: The Redemption Arc

Photo from IMDb

Bring tissues—this movie dives deep into each character’s trauma and past. It explores the reasons behind their actions and their paths to redemption. With emotional depth and a darker tone, expect mature themes and a fair share of loss. There are spy-thriller elements, so make sure to stay until the end credits—because in true Marvel fashion, you never know what surprises await.

Bucky Barnes: The Hero Arc

Photo from Screen Rant

We’ve known Bucky Barnes as a sidekick and one of Steve Rogers’ closest friends. After his presumed death and subsequent brainwashing by Hydra, Bucky became an assassin—only to seek redemption and return as Steve’s ally. But this year, the Winter Soldier is no longer just a sidekick. Could Bucky be stepping up as the leader of this new anti-hero team, the Thunderbolts? We’ll find out in cinemas this May 2.

BBM: The Bucky Barnes Movement

Photo from Marvel

Speaking of Bucky—he’s undeniably dreamy, isn’t he? So, of course, Pinoys as we are, the “BBM” or Bucky Barnes Movement has taken off. Posters of Sebastian Stan’s character are displayed like campaign ads, with fliers being handed out as if he’s running for office. The other characters are featured too, but let’s be honest—if they were all running, we know who’d get our vote: Bucky Barnes!

Photo from Marvel

Thunderbolts reminds us that even the most unlikely heroes can find purpose in chaos. Their journey is messy, unpredictable, and far from perfect—but isn’t that what makes them human? Like us, they struggle, fail, and grow. And maybe—just maybe—there’s a Thunderbolt in all of us, waiting for a chance to rise.

Caohagan Island: The Little Island with Big Eco Vibes!

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An island paradise in Lapu-Lapu

Dawn Suzzaine Macapaz

Caohagan, sometimes spelled “Cawhagan,” is a charming little island with a land area of just about 0.05 square kilometers. But don’t let its size fool you—this tiny paradise packs a big punch! While fishing used to be the heart of the local economy, tourism has blossomed over the years. When you first step foot on the island, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the beach resorts, food stalls serving mouth-watering local treats, and friendly vendors selling fun souvenirs to help you take a piece of Caohagan home with you.

The Island of Sustainability

Despite its small size, Caohagan Island is home to around 694 residents (according to the 2020 census). And while the island may be tucked away, its people have figured out some pretty creative and sustainable ways to live. Many homes use solar panels for power, making the island a leader in eco-friendly solutions. The island is also no stranger to typhoons, like the Super-typhoon that hit in the past, but the community has always stayed strong and prepared.

Caohagan is a laid-back beach lover’s dream. With its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder it’s a favorite destination for travelers seeking peace and natural beauty. Besides the gorgeous beach, the local seafood markets offer fresh catches that’ll leave your taste buds doing a happy dance.

Kawabunga in Caohagan: Things to Do on the Island

Caohagan Island isn’t just about stunning views and a peaceful vibe—it’s also packed with exciting activities for every kind of traveler! Here’s a sneak peek at all the awesome things you can do while soaking up the island life:

Snorkeling

With your snorkel mask and flippers (if you have), you can already make the most out of your experience when you swim with the fishes. You get to see up close every living thing underwater, just don’t forget to bring your underwater camera for documentation because the natural marine world of Caohagan Island is worth every bit of kb of your memory.

Photo by Rudy A. Balbuena

Swimming and Sunbathing

If you go around the island, you can probably look for a swimming spot – though we suggest you go to the eastern part of the island.

There is a sandbar with a number of bamboo and cogon grass sprouting like mushrooms making you want to take photos and/or just enjoy the view.

Recreational Activities

On the other hand, if you’re the sporty type and you prefer playing ball games after swimming before relaxing, you can surely play ball games – basketball, volleyball, badminton and even board games! You can play whichever game you wish to.

Socialize

More than just visiting the island to swim, you already know that this island has residents hence, you can meet the locals. What better way to enjoy the place than exploring it like a child, right? Ask questions.

Seafood Market

Caohagan Island is the home of the fresh (and exotic) seafood at crazy affordable prices.

More than the aforementioned, to be on the island is already one for the books – great and relaxing!

RATES & HOW TO GET THERE?

RATES

  • Adult Entrance Fee: Php 200.00
  • Children Entrance Fee: Php 100.00
  • Island Hoping Tours: Starts at Php 2,150.00 to Php 9,050.00 per person, depending on the package.
  • A round-trip boat ride from Santa Rosa Wharf in Mactan: Php 500.00 to Php 1,000.00

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu — near Nalusuan Island in Olango.

  • By Commute: From Cebu City, take a taxi, Grab, or a jeepney to Maribago, Mactan Island. This is the usual jump-off point for island-hopping tours. Once in Maribago, you can rent a boat or join an island-hopping tour that includes Caohagan Island. The boat trip takes around 30 minutes, offering scenic views of the surrounding islands.

Everything You Need to Know About Digital Nomad Visas—As Approved By Pres. Marcos

Calling all digital nomads!

Sa panahon karon, freelance jobs are becoming more and more prevalent and have become the go-to option, both for Sugboanons and foreigners. Obviously, it’s one of the best choices for those who prefer a steady flow of income while being able to work from home or at a preferred location, as long as it’s outside the typical office setting. So, with the influx of foreign freelance workers, our dear President Marcos decided, why not offer Digital Nomad Visas—just like other countries do?

Photo from Pexels

What Is A Digital Nomad Visa?

In hindsight, a “Digital Nomad Visa” is a work permit, but as opposed to the regular work permit, this visa is specifically designed for those who work remotely and wish to live in a country for an extended period without being tied to a traditional office job. Before this kind of visa existed, freelancers and online entrepreneurs do their work in other countries under “tourist visas,” which is completely ILLEGAL! Why? Well, obviously it’s because tourist visas are intended for leisure travel, for a limited period of time. Therefore, you can’t accept or do any sort of work-related activities while under a tourist visa.

Several countries currently offer or presented the option of a digital nomad visa, such as Andorra, Dubai, Antigua and Barbuda, Ecuador, Aruba, Argentina, Estonia, Georgia, Norway, Portugal, Greece, Saint Lucia, Iceland, Seychelles, Malta, Thailand, Albania, Croatia, South Korea, Spain, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Cyprus, Romania, Cayman Islands, Montenegro, Mexico, Bahamas, Canada, Armenia, Barbados, Bermuda, Anguilla, Dominica, Curaçao, Belize, Japan, Indonesia, Uruguay, Panama, Taiwan, South Africa, Brazil, Malaysia, Turkey, and Namibia; and now, the Philippines is the newest addition!

Section 1. Digital Nomad Visa. The DFA is hereby authorized to issue Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs) to non-immigrant foreigners who desire to enter and/or stay in the country for a temporary period for the purpose of working remotely using digital technologies, and whose clients or employers are situated outside the Philippines.

Qualifications to Get a Digital Nomad Visa

To further tourism and economy in the country—that’s the main reason based on the executive order. To apply for the DNV, foreign nationals must comply with the following:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age;
  • Must show proof of remote work using digital technology;
  • Must show proof of sufficient income which is generated outside the Philippines;
  • Must show proof of no criminal record;
  • Must have health insurance valid for the period of the DNV;
  • Must be a national of a country that offers DNVs to Filipinos and where the Philippines has a Foreign Service Post (FSP);
  • Must not pose threat to the internal or external security of the Philippines; and
  • Must not be employed in the Philippines.
Photo from Pexels

Netizens Concerns Over Foreign Digital Nomad Visas

“What if the aliens take over?” asked one Netizen as many worried that this new policy may lead to possible displacement of local workers when companies prefer hiring remote foreign workers as opposed to locals. This would mean that there will be an imbalance in the freelance job market and unemployment rates may soar! Others also noted their concerns regarding the need for additional housing and transportation or public services as more and more foreigners come in, not just for a quick vacation but for employment. 

Nevertheless, there are also many who favor the decision of the President, for as long as proper rules and regulations are set to avoid the negative effects.

Photo from Pexels

How about you, Sugboanon? What do you think about the approval for offering foreigners “Digital Nomad Visas”? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Two New Gordon Ramsay Restaurants to Open at Mactan Newtown, Cebu

This is for the Sugboanons nga food trip ang go-to!

PHOTO-2025-04-08-22-07-19.jpg

Gordon Ramsay, an 8-Michelin-star holder known for his fine dining and casual dining restaurants, is set to launch two more food hubs in the Pearl of the Orient Seas—specifically at Mactan Newtown, Cebu!

Following the success of Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill Philippines at Newport World Resorts, the new restaurants will be in Lapu-Lapu City, featuring fresh concepts, including Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips and Street Burger by Gordon Ramsay. And guess what? These two will serve as the first-ever Philippine locations for both restaurants, set to be launched side by side this year!

The announcement follows Gordon Ramsay’s landmark first visit to Manila earlier this year, signaling the continued growth of the chef’s global restaurant portfolio in Asia. The two new dining concepts will offer casual, quality-driven menus that reflect Ramsay’s signature flair, all set against the backdrop of one of Cebu’s premier beach destinations.

Cebu is a dynamic center of tourism in the Philippines; and our township in Mactan Island is the perfect tourism hub in a prime location near the airport… The Mactan Newtown is also a vibrant commercial and leisure hub. With the entry of Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips and Street Burger by Gordon Ramsay, we will introduce dynamic dining concepts that will further enhance the township’s appeal, not just for visitors, but also for the growing community who live and work there.

Kevin L. Tan – Travellers International Hotel Group, Inc. (TIHGI) Executive Chairman

American and Brit Classics Back-to-Back at Newtown!

If you’re craving an over-the-counter-style restaurant serving variations of British classics, alongside crave-worthy Lobster & Shrimp, Dirty Chips, and decadent handcrafted milkshakes, then Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips should be on your bucket list. Right next door, Street Burger by Gordon Ramsay is flipping the script on the classic American diner with a bold lineup, including the much-hyped Idiot Burger, the G.F.C. (Gordon’s Fried Chicken) Burger, and the O.G.R. Burger, along with other fan favorites.

So, excited na ba ta Sugboanons? Then stay tuned for updates on the grand opening, and make sure to follow Gordon Ramsay’s Philippine locations on social media to be among the first to experience these exciting new dining concepts; ug magkita sad ta didto para makatilaw sa Michelin-star cuisines!

Thrill Things To Do In Cebu: Fuel Up Your Adrenaline

When the pulse races, the limits fade.

Photo from Kartzone Cebu

Fun, excitement, and thrills are the perfect ingredients for adventure and adrenaline. In Cebu, there are a lot of adventures to fuel your Epinephrine if you like thrills and extreme activities.

Skydiving

Photo from Skydive Cebu

3, 2, 1, Geronimo! How about watching the view of Cebu while jumping out of the plane? Why not try skydiving in Sta. Fe Cebu. Soar up above the island and watch it while descending. A perfect adventure to start for people who love the aerial view as well as the heights.

Photo from Skydive Cebu

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Photo from Skydive Cebu
Photo from Skydive Cebu

RATES

  • Standard: Php 24,500.00
  • Premium: Php 35, 000.00
  • Group Jump: Php 21,000.00

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Bantayan Island Airport, Santa Fe, Philippines

  • By commute: Head to the Cebu North Bus Terminal and take a Ceres bus bound for Hagnaya. The journey takes about 3–4 hours. At Hagnaya Port, board a ferry to Santa Fe, Bantayan Island. The ferry ride typically lasts 1–2 hours. Once you arrive in Santa Fe, you can take a tricycle or other local transport to Skydive Santa Fe.

Skywalking 

Photo from Sky Experience Adventure

Why walk the Earth when you can walk the sky? Aim higher! Another sky-related activity that you can try in Cebu is Skywalking. Go walk on a translucent floor and enjoy the view of Cebu up above on the top floor of the Queen Regency Hotel

Photo from Sky Experience Adventure

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Photo from Sky Experience Adventure

RATES

  • Adults: ₱650
  • Club Ultima Members: ₱500
  • Hotel Guests: ₱550
  • Kids (6 yrs and below): ₱550
  • Senior Citizens/PWD: ₱600

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Crown Regency Hotel & Towers, Osmeña Blvd, Cebu City, Philippines

  • By commute: If you’re near a jeepney route, look for one heading to Fuente Osmeña Circle. The hotel is just a short walk from there or by taxi the fastest and most convenient option. Simply input “Crown Regency Hotel & Towers” as your destination.
  • By Car: Head towards Gorordo Avenue, then turn onto Escario Street. Continue straight until you reach Osmeña Boulevard. The hotel is near Fuente Osmeña Circle. Type “Crown Regency Hotel & Towers” for your destination

Snorkeling

Photo from Alegria Dive Resort

From the Skies now let us dive. Alegria is nice place to snorkel in Cebu, why you may ask? Who does not want to snorkel where you can get to see the statues or the guardians of Alegria.

Photo from Alegria Dive Resort

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Photo from Alegria Dive Resort

RATES

  • For inquiries contact the Alegria Dive Resort

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Santander, Barili, Toledo Rd, Alegria, Philippines

  • By Bus: Head to the South Bus Terminal in Cebu City and take a bus bound for Alegria or Badian. The ride takes about 3-4 hours. Let the driver know you’re heading to Alegria Dive Resort, and they’ll drop you off nearby.
  • By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and take the Cebu South Road. The drive is scenic and takes approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic. Once you arrive in Alegria, the resort is located in Barangay Sta. Filomena. It’s always a good idea to contact the resort directly for specific directions or assistance.

Swimming with the Whale Sharks

Photo from Photo from Alegria Dive Resort

Whale, whale, whale… look who’s swimming into town! Is snorkeling still not enough to fill up your adrenaline level? How about swimming with sharks? Whale Sharks to be exact. It is going to be a a-fin-tastic experience.

Photo from Photo from Alegria Dive Resort

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Photo from Photo from Alegria Dive Resort

RATES

  • Watching from a Banca:
    • Locals: P300
    • Foreigners: P500
  • Snorkeling:
    • Locals: P500
    • Foreigners: P1,000
  • Diving:
    • Locals: P600
    • Foreigners: P1,500
  • Environmental Fee:
    • Locals: P500
    • Foreigners: P1,000 

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Natalio Bacalso Ave, Tan-Awan, Oslob, Philippines

  • By commute: Head to the Cebu South Bus Terminal and take a bus bound for Bato via Oslob. The ride takes about 3-4 hours.
  • By Car:   You can hire a private, which takes around 2-2.5 hours. And type “Oslob Whale Watching” on Google Maps or Waze app. 

Wakeboarding, Skybiking, and Ziplining

Photo from Cebu Wake Park

Are you still looking for extreme activities? How about trying at Papa Kits Marina and Fishing Lagoon? Wakeboarding, Skybiking they have it all you name it. Kitakits at Papa Kits!

Photo from Cebu Wake Park

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Photo from Cebu Wake Park
Photo from Cebu Wake Park

RATES

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location Papa Kits Marina and Fishing Lagoon, Liloan, Philippines

  • By commute: ake a bus bound for Danao City from the North Bus Terminal. Ask the driver to drop you off at Papa Kit’s in Liloan. Travel time is around 1-1.5 hours.
  • Ride a jeepney heading to Liloan from SM City Cebu or Colon. Once in Liloan, take a tricycle to Papa Kit’s.
  • By Commute:  A private car ride takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.

Karting

Photo from Kartzone Cebu

Pit for Fuel, pit for fuel, you are still low on adrenaline. How about karting? Relive and experience how to race on a kart like your favorite Formula 1 drivers. It makes your heart go DU DU DU Rut go MAX.

Photo from Kartzone Cebu

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Photo from Kartzone Cebu

RATES

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Kartzone Cebu, F Cabahug St. Panagdait Kasambagan Cebu City, Cebu City, Philippines

  • By commute: Take the 03A jeepney from areas like Carbon, Colon, or Mabolo. Ask the driver to drop you off near Sykes Asia or Burger King/Jollibee intersection in Panagdait. From there, it’s a short walk to Kartzone.
  • By car: A direct ride to Kartzone takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Just set your destination to Kartzone Cebu on your app or tell the driver it’s on F. Cabahug St., Kasambagan. Use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps and search for Kartzone Cebu. Parking is available on-site.

Have we filled up your adrenaline? Because we know we all have a blast on the amazing thrill activities in Cebu. What are your other amazing extreme activities in Cebu, we would like to hear about it.

Let the Conclave Decide, Don’t Campaign for Tagle; Says CBCP

“This is not the kind of election to campaign for someone…”

Photo from The Vatican

As speculation continues to build around the possibility of a having a new pope being elected, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued a reminder to the faithful: refrain from campaigning for Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, and any other cardinals.

Photo from The Vatican

In a recent interview with Radio Veritas, CBCP Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs executive secretary Fr. Jerome Secillano highlighted the importance of respecting the sacred and confidential nature of the papal conclave.

The independence of the electors should be respected, and the least that we can do is to pray for Cardinal Tagle and the rest of the cardinal-electors

CBCP Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs executive secretary Fr. Jerome Secillano

“It’s not prudent for the people to publicly push for Cardinal Tagle as the next pope since it may be misconstrued that the conclave can be influenced by outside forces if and when Cardinal Tagle indeed becomes the next pontiff.”

The process of choosing the next pope is not a political campaign, but a spiritual and solemn choice involving 120 cardinal-electors from around the world. With over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide awaiting the next leader of the Church, the conclave must remain free from external pressure and influence.

Photo from The Vatican

While the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic country, has a representation of three potentials in the College of Cardinals—Cardinal Tagle, Cardinal Jose Advincula, and Cardinal Orlando Quevedo—the CBCP urges us, Filipinos, to instead offer prayers rather than public endorsements.

In the end, the Church reminds us: it is the Holy Spirit who ultimately guides the decision, Sugboanons, and not the mass’ word of mouth.

The Newly Opened “Hapitanan sa Sugbo”

“Hunong sa gud ta kadyot ari.”

Photo from Cebu Provincial Tourism Office

On April 21, 2025, the newly built shop with a scenic view at the Sanayon View Deck in Santander finally opened its doors.

Photo from Local Government Unit of Santander

Hapitanan sa Sugbo: Santander is a Tourist Rest Area (TRA) funded to boost tourism and support the local economy of Santander. The 171.10-square-meter facility was built by the government and is the second of its kind in the region to be powered entirely by solar energy. It can accommodate approximately 40 guests at a time.

Photo from Local Government Unit of Santander

Airconditioned Lounge Areas

Photo from Cebu Provincial Tourism Office

Just pay a Php 10.00 fee — yes, you heard that right! For only ten pesos, you can use their modern-style restroom facilities, designed for everyone’s comfort.

Photo from Cebu Provincial Tourism Office

The lounges feature air conditioning, charging stations for travelers needing to power up their gadgets, a tourist information center, food stalls, coffee shops, and souvenir stores.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

  • Restroom Fee: Php 10.00

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Operating Hours: Open daily

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Santander, Cebu

  • By Commute: Board a bus bound for Santander. Look for buses heading to Bato via Oslob. The bus ride takes around 4 hours. Once in Santander, take a tricycle or motorcycle to Hapitanan sa Sugbo.
  • By Car: Santander is the southernmost town of Cebu, located just beyond Oslob. Drive through Talisay, Naga, San Fernando, Carcar, and Barili, following the coastal highway. Once in Santander, you can easily find Hapitanan sa Sugbo by asking locals or using navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze.

The newly opened Hapitanan sa Sugbo: Santander offers more than just a great facility and cozy lounges — it also boasts a stunning, breathtaking view of Sanayon. So, when you’re in Santander, don’t forget muhapit!

Heated Up: Signs Your Pet May Be Having a Heatstroke

Grabe najud ang init, Sugboanons!

Photo from Pexels

Now that the temperatures are rising, and at 38-Degrees Celsius at most, we crave the cold comfort of Halo-Halo, and any iced creamy desserts. But, aside from the vacation mode vibes that we’re turning on, there comes potential illnesses and medical conditions brought by the heat—such as the deadly heat stroke, and not just in humans, but also in pets.

What are the signs that your pet might be suffering from heatstroke?

Photo from Pexels

Check On Your Pets

Unlike us, pets can’t just grab a drink or turn on a fan. They rely on us to help them regulate their body temperatures. So it’s best to know the signs and act fast:

  • Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
  • Drooling more than usual
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Vomiting or diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
  • Bright red, pale, or bluish gums and tongue
  • Uncoordinated movement or collapse
  • Seizures (in extreme cases)
Photo from Pexels

What To Do If You Suspect a Heatstroke

Heatstroke can come on fast and is life-threatening if not addressed immediately. So, if you think your furbaby is overheating, here’s what you can do:

  • Move them to a cooler area immediately.
  • Offer cool (not ice-cold) water to drink.
  • Wet their body using a damp towel or place them near a fan.
  • Avoid using ice or very cold water—this can cause shock.
  • Go to the vet ASAP. Even if they seem better, internal damage may have occurred.
Photo from Pexels

Prevention is always better than cure, therefore, during this summer season, always remember to never leave your pet inside parked vehicles, even for a short time. You should also limit outdoor playtime during the hottest hours (10 AM to 4 PM). And most importantly, provide cool shade, cold water, and groom your pets regularly especially breeds with thick long fur.

Photo from Pexels

Pets are family, and they need extra care during the summer months. So while we’re out there living our best life under the sun, let’s not forget our furbabies need us.