Ink Talks: Tattoos that Speak Louder Than Words

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June 14, 2025

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Ink Talks: Tattoos that Speak Louder Than Words

It’s more than just art and aesthetics; it’s also a canvas for people’s stories to be told.

*Photo from Apo Whang Od’s Facebook Page*

In today’s society, where self-expression is celebrated, tattoo meanings have evolved into trends or expressions of rebellion. Tattoos have become powerful symbols that tell stories, convey identities, reflect personal reasons, and preserve heritage. Once, tattoos were considered taboo or a rebellious phase, but they have evolved into a celebration of much more meaningful self-expression. It has become more than just a body decoration or art. Body tattoos carry profound significance for those people who embrace them.

*Photo from Apo Whang Od’s Official Facebook Page*

Inked Heritage

Culturally, tattoos have played a significant role in many communities worldwide, serving as a connection to their ancestors and traditions. In the Philippines, the tattoo of the Kalinga people, known as Batok (hand-tapped tattoos), has gained attention from different parts of the globe. Apo Whang-od, the last traditional mambabatok in their community, became well-known internationally for her cultural practice preservation. The intricate patterns are traditionally earned through acts of bravery or challenges that provide experience, as younger generations revive their heritage. The tattoos are not just for decoration, but they also represent family lineage, social status, and achievements of a person.

Tattoo Carving Legends

Medusa Tattoo

In Greek mythology, Medusa was a cursed woman who could turn people to stone with just a glance. Mainly, women chose this design as a symbol of empowerment and survival, particularly for those people who experienced sexual assault. The Medusa tattoo has become a powerful statement, transforming a figure of fear into one of their strengths.

Dragon Tattoo

Dragon tattoo art across different cultures has different meanings. In Japanese, dragons symbolize wisdom, strength, and protection. Western-style dragon tattoos represent power, connection to fantasy, or rebellion. Dragon tattoos remain one of the most popular tattoo choices worldwide.

Semicolon Tattoo

The semicolon began as a simple punctuation mark but has become a global symbol of mental health awareness. The tattoo represents that a person’s story is not over, and it serves as a powerful reminder of survival and new hope. Millions of people have adopted this tattoo to show solidarity for those people who are struggling with depression.

Blackout Tattoo

A blackout tattoo covers a large area of solid black ink in your body, and this type of tattoo has become increasingly popular. Some people use them to cover old scars, hide old tattoos, or just appreciate the visual impact of them. This design challenges the traditional ideas on what a tattoo should look like.

Spider Web Tattoo

Traditionally, the Spider Web Tattoo is associated with prison time as each strand represents the years they served, but this tattoo has taken on a new meaning. People now see this symbol as a representation of being caught in life’s challenges and breaking free from toxic situations. The shifting of meaning shows the evolution of tattoos over time.

Lion Tattoo

Courage and leadership are the meanings associated with the lion tattoo, which symbolizes strength, bravery, and loyalty. Moreover, it is often related to the protection of loved ones and standing tall with pride.

Statement Through Ink

Despite the tattoo’s aesthetic appeal, it often serves as a reminder of personal journeys or political beliefs. People who experience and survive trauma might use tattoos to reclaim their bodies, covering the scar of their past with a beautiful design to represent that they are healing and stronger than ever before. In recent years, social activists have used tattoos as tools. For instance, the Black Lives Matter movement has inspired many people to get a fist tattoo as a symbol of solidarity and support.

As technology advances, so does the art of tattooing. Smart tattoos are being developed by researchers that can monitor a person’s health conditions by responding to the color-changing chemistry of the body. Inks made from natural ingredients are gaining popularity as people seek sustainable and safe alternatives. Research on temporary tattoos that can last for years is being explored as an option.

Tattooing evolved from a decorative art form to become a powerful statement and a means of storytelling. Whether the purpose is to honor cultural heritage, make a statement, or foster personal growth, each tattoo has a story to tell, not just by its appearance on the skin. As our society grows, the art of tattooing also grows. According to Michael Biondi, “Our bodies were printed as blank pages to be filled with the ink of our hearts.” The one constant is that tattoos will always be a means or a tool for people to express what they feel and what matters to them.

Chapter 1: RomCom Recommendations for Newly Weds

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June 14, 2025

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Chapter 1: RomCom Recommendations for Newly Weds

Cuddle up with your partner and relax in their presence as you watch and recall memories of how you guys met through this list.

As the sparks fly when you first meet your partner, to unexpected adventures, experiencing it together makes it worthwhile. From meeting unexpectedly to building a journey full of memories. You might even have similar experiences, so snuggle up and choose your fighter! Emz

50 First Dates

The movie shows Henry, a marine veterinarian stationed in Hawaii, who falls for Lucy. Lucy has short-term memory loss due to a car accident. Because of this, Lucy wakes up thinking it’s the day of her accident and forgets the past. But with Henry, he is determined to be with her and find creative ways to make Lucy fall for him again.

Crazy, Stupid, Love

Cal Weaver who is a middle aged man has his life turned upside down when his wife Emily asks for a divorce after admitting to an affair. Distraught by the revelation, Cal meets Jacob Palmer who is known to be a smooth talking bachelor, helps Cal regain his confidence. While Jacob helps Cal, he unexpectedly falls in love with Hannah, who challenges his playboy lifestyle. As love, heartbreak, and challenges unfold, the characters’ lives connect which leads to unexpected family revelation.

Just Married

Tom and Sarah are newlyweds and went on their European honeymoon. But problems arose from their differences and a nosy ex that threatened their relationship that caused mishaps and chaos. Will their love overcome the challenges? Or will they give up and cause the end of their new marriage?

Leap Year

As she travels to Ireland, Anna Brady plans to propose to her boyfriend on leap day. But fate had other plans, the bad weather forced her to rely on Declan O’Callaghan who is a rugged inn keeper. With their trip across the country, an unplanned romance began, in which Anna questions her feelings and her original plan.

The Proposal

When faced with the possibility of deportation, the strict book editor Margaret Tate convinces her assistant Andrew Paxton to marry her. As they travel to Alaska to meet his family, their impromptu engagement turns to something real.

This list is a mix of romance, comedy, and heartwarming moments between partners making it the perfect selection for newly wedded couples who are looking for a good movie to watch and relax. With fate coming to play, whether it is bringing two people together, or letting them meet through difficult circumstances, each movie adds warmth to your shared experiences. So get comfortable, snuggle up, and let these movies fire up the love.

When You Can’t Move & Something’s Watching: Is It Sleep Paralysis or a Demon?

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June 13, 2025

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When You Can’t Move & Something’s Watching: Is It Sleep Paralysis or a Demon?

What is the fine line between dreaming and having a little demon visiting via sleep. Is it what people know as Sleep paralysis? Or is it a gateway to unknown beings like spirits?

Sleep paralysis is a temporary condition where a person is awake but is unable to move or speak, this occurs right before falling asleep or upon waking up. It happens when the body is caught between sleep stages, particularly Rem sleep, where the brain is active but the muscles remain relaxed. It is often caused by sleep deprivation or having irregular sleep schedules, high stress levels or anxiety, narcolepsy or other sleep disorders.

REM Sleep Explanation

REM Sleep refers to the repeating stages of sleep that include Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. Symptoms like being unable to move or speak despite being conscious, pressure on the chest or having difficulty in breathing, and feelings of fear or panic during the episode, hallucinations (seeing or sensing a presence in the room). REM sleep cycles involve multiple stages and paralysis often happen when the body struggles to transition smoothly between stages.

Now when superstitious beliefs and folklore tells us a different story or well a different experience are they hallucinations or are they actually there in the room with you? Many people interpret sleep paralysis as a supernatural experience where it stems from beliefs of entities that most humans cannot see. The Philippines is no exception to this.

The Folklore behind it

The Nightmare Death Syndrome

The Bangungot is believed to be caused by malevolent spirits attacking a sleeping person, leading to suffocation or even deaths. Elders often say that when you eat heavy meals before bed, especially rice-based cuisine, it can trigger fatal episodes of Sudden Unexplained Nocturnal Death Syndrome (SUNDS). This folklore is known among Visayans and Tagalogs. The terms comes from the Tagalog words “bangon” which mean to rise and “ungol” which mean to moan, and it describes how victims appear to struggle before passing away

The Nightmare Demon

The Batibat is known to be a vengeful spirit that is said to inhabit old trees in Ilocano folklore. When trees are cut down and used for houses, the Batibat supposedly haunts the residents, sitting on their chest during sleep paralysis which prevents them from breathing. Like many others, some also believe that the Batibat encounters can lead to (SUNDS), making it a feared entity in Cebuano Folklore.

This makes a balanced blend made of supernatural entities and scientific research about sleep paralysis. Are they really just hallucinations of the minds? Or are they actually present there with you? Many have experiences that range over sleep paralysis while some encounter these entities and have even claimed to have seen them move and have felt their touch.

What’s in a Name? Danao City’s Streets & Their Almost Forgotten Origins

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June 13, 2025

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What’s in a Name? Danao City’s Streets & Their Almost Forgotten Origins

Where Every Street Tells a Story and Every Name Walks with History…

Photo from Danao City Tourism and Development Office Official Facebook Page

In a city known for its rich cultural history and thriving urban center, Danao City is the ideal destination. Each name of the street tells a story of our national heroes and great leaders, immortalizing their legacies. The city reaffirms its respect for history and educates future generations about the sacrifices that helped shape the nation’s and the city’s character. Explore the different street names in Danao City, which reflect the rich history of our country and city.

Groundwork Of Danao

The street name of Danao reflects the colonial past and the contributions of local leaders. The land of Danao was established as a city in 1961 through Republic Act No. 3028. From its rural roots to its urban growth, the town commemorated its past by naming its streets after individuals who shaped the national history and the city’s local development.

Revolution On The Roadway

Some streets in Danao are named after national heroes whose bravery and ideals shaped the country’s identity. These figures remind the locals and visitors alike of the nation’s deep-rooted fight for freedom and progress.

P. del Pilar Street – Named after Brigadier-General Pio del Pilar y Castañeda (1860–1931), a revolutionary military leader who played a key role in the Philippine Revolution.
Mabini Street – Honors Apolinario Mabini (1864–1903), the brilliant mind behind the Philippine Revolution and the first Prime Minister of the Philippines. This street is typically located near important government and commercial spaces.
Bonifacio Street – Carries the name of Andres Bonifacio (1863–1897), the founder of the Katipunan. His legacy as a revolutionary icon lives on in this major thoroughfare.
Rizal Street – Named after Dr. Jose Rizal (1861–1896), the national hero who advocated peaceful reform through education and literature. Like in many cities, this street is often a central hub of activity.

Local Legends in the Lanes

Danao’s growth wouldn’t be complete without honoring its trailblazers. Several streets in the city pay homage to local leaders who have made significant contributions to its governance and development.

Beatriz D. Durano Street – In tribute to Mayor Beatriz Duterte Durano (1907–1981), a matriarch of the influential Durano family, remembered for her service to the city.
C.M. Enriquez Street – Named after Carlos Manto Enriquez, a former municipal president who served during the early 20th century.
F. Ralota Street – Honors Francisco Ralota, also a former municipal president of Danao.
V. Buot Street – Named after Victoriano Buot, another respected leader who held office in Danao’s early years.
J.D.A. Street – Stands for Jovenal Durano Almendras, a key figure from the prominent Durano-Almendras family, whose influence helped shape Danao’s political and social direction.

The streets of Danao, Cebu, serve not only as a pathway for people and transportation, but they are also a reminder to everyone about the city’s historical richness and its cultural legacy. From the names of our national heroes, such as Rizal and Bonifacio, to local leaders like Durano and Enriquez, each of their names tells a story of what it means to sacrifice, lead, and serve as a guide for progress. As Danao continues to improve and grow, the street name will always serve as a testament to commemorate the leaders who have shaped our past and present.

Echo Of Freedom: The Undying Spirit Of Independence Day

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June 12, 2025

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Echo Of Freedom: The Undying Spirit Of Independence Day

More than a regular holiday, Independence Day is the heartbeat of Filipino pride, resilience, and remembrance.

Every year on June 12, the Philippines commemorates its Independence Day, which marks the country’s freedom from Spanish colonial rule in 1898. The holiday serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and the struggles of our heroes who shaped our nation’s freedom. For many, it is a day of national pride, marked by flag-raising ceremonies, parades, performances, and a reflection on our nation’s struggles and journey. But in today’s society, where many nations, just like the Philippines, have achieved freedom, the relevance of Independence Day seems unclear to some people. In this globalized world, some questions may arise, like what is the point of celebrating Independence Day in the modern age?

A Look From The Past

The journey to Philippine independence was marked by sacrifice and courage. The commemoration of Independence Day traces its roots to a crucial moment in history. After 333 years of Spanish domination, the day marks the moment when our ancestors fought against colonization to break free from foreign rule and establish their independence and sovereignty on June 12, 1898. Filipino revolutionaries, led by figures like Emilio Aguinaldo, Andres Bonifacio, and Jose Rizal, fought for the freedom of every Filipino individual. However, the Filipinos’ freedom was not easily maintained. The Philippines faced subsequent colonization by the Americans and Japanese before entirely securing its independence. The official and internationally recognized Philippine Independence was granted on July 4, 1946. It was under the former President Diosdado Macapagal that June 12 was declared the official Independence Day to honor the 1898 declaration. The Declaration of Independence in Cavite was a triumphant moment, ensuring that future generations could live without the fear of domination.

Freedom In The New Age

In these days where national identities are being overshadowed by globalization, celebrating Independence Day remains essential. Honoring the past and remembering the sacrifices of those heroes who fought for our freedom is a worthy effort that deserves to be celebrated and remembered. It teaches us the importance of unity and the ongoing fight for better justice. The day of independence reminds us of what it means to be a Filipino, promoting patriotism and solidarity in the face of modern challenges. By reflecting on how far the Filipinos have come, we must constantly remind ourselves of the preciousness of freedom and our responsibility to preserve it. The courage of past generations inspires Filipinos to continue fighting for justice, progress, and true independence.

Independence Day is more than just a holiday that we celebrate every year. Still, it is a living memory of the battles we Filipinos fought through and those Filipinos who lost their lives for the freedom of the Philippines. In this modern society, where much history can fade with many distractions, this celebration ensures that Filipinos will never forget their past. To quote Jose Rizal, “Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinangalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan.”

Should A Customer Clean as They Go? Cebu City CLAYGO Ordinance Says YES!

Policy or Law

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June 12, 2025

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Should A Customer Clean as They Go? Cebu City CLAYGO Ordinance Says YES!

Should cleaning up after dining be the customers’ job? Cebu City’s CLAYGO ordinance ignites a debate on cleanliness, responsibility, and service.

Ordinance No.2709, also known as the “CLAYGO Ordinance of 2023”, stirred a discussion among the locals and visitors alike. The CLAYGO, or “Clean As You Go,” encourages customers to clean up or tidy their tables after dining at places like fast-food chains, bakeries, cafeterias, and similar establishments within the city. The ordinance promotes a much cleaner space and accountability, but it also raises a few considerations on both sides of the issue.

No Mess Left Behind

Claygo promotes a positive impact on public hygiene and personal discipline of people in the city. With the high rise of a growing population and the busy food industry, maintaining cleanliness can be challenging in establishments. The ordinance aims to promote cleanliness and shared responsibilities between staff and customers, thereby reducing the burden on workers while instilling a habit of environmental awareness. By asking customers to dispose of their waste properly when returning their trays, CLAYGO also enhances the customer experience by making dining a cleaner and more enjoyable experience.

Forks Down, Burden Up

On the other hand, critics argue that cleaning up should not be left to the discretion of a paying customer, especially since there are some establishments where customer service is an integral part of the experience. Eating out should also include a level of comfort and service. Moreover, in terms of accessibility, not all customers may be physically capable of clearing their tables. A burden may be experienced by those who are pregnant, elderly, or those caring for small children. Some establishments require assistance for these groups, but enforcement may vary from one establishment to another.

Serving Clean & Fair

The implementation of the CLAYGO ordinance in Cebu City encourages people to shift their behavior, promoting a shared responsibility between staff and customers. While the benefits of the ordinance are clear in terms of cleanliness, it is also essential for business owners and city officials to ensure inclusivity for all, with proper signage, accessible facilities, and adequate staff training.

Context and flexibility are the key to any policy. For some people, cleaning up after themselves is a small gesture of kindness with benefits. For others, it is a matter of practicality and expectation. The one certain thing is that, whether you oppose or support the idea, everyone has a role to play in maintaining clean, respectful, and inclusive spaces for all.

Philippines Welcomes Indian Tourists with New Visa-Free Perks!

Lenie Lañojan

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June 11, 2025

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Philippines Welcomes Indian Tourists with New Visa-Free Perks!

Mubārakabādī to our Indian fellas for this new privilege in PH!

The Department of Foreign Affairs announced that starting June 8, 2025, Indian passport holders can now visit the Philippines visa-free. This is a big move to make travel smoother and welcome more tourists from India.

There are two ways Indian nationals can stay in PH, and it depends on their VISA status:

Standard 14-Day Stay

Got just an Indian passport? You’re good for a 14-day tourist stay—no visa required. Just make sure you’ve got:

A passport valid for at least 6 more months
Hotel booking confirmation
Proof you can support your stay
Return or onward ticket

Extended 30-Day Stay

If you have a valid visa or residence permit from the U.S., Japan, Australia, Canada, Schengen, Singapore, or the UK, you score a generous 30-day visa-free entry. Same basic requirements apply: 6‑month passport validity and your travel ticket.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

These visa-free stays are non-extendable and non-convertible. You can’t switch to a different status while you’re here.
You must not have any negative records with the Bureau of Immigration.
This applies at any Philippine port of entry—airports, seaports, you name it.

If you’re planning to stay longer, for work, study, or even transits, you’ll have to apply for the appropriate visa before you travel, through a Philippine embassy or consulate.

And for those eligible for e-Visas, that option is still available at evisa.gov.ph, but remember, it’s still not extendable or changeable while you’re here.

This two-tiered system helps everyone:

Short-trippers get to enjoy our beaches, food, and culture hassle-free.
Frequent flyers with those AJACSSUK visas have more time to explore and immerse in our culture.

So, if you’re an Indian passport-holder dreaming of island life, street food, or hikes, your trip just got easier! Just double check your documentation before you go, and you’re all set to enjoy 14 or 30 days of sights, sounds, and all the smiles the Philippines has to offer.

Colon Street: Named After a Colonizer, But Owned by Cebuanos

History

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June 11, 2025

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Colon Street: Named After a Colonizer, But Owned by Cebuanos

Di ka tinuod nga Sugboanon kung wa pa ka ka-agi sa Colon…

Colon is located in Cebu, in the downtown area with a historical landmark and significant commercial and cultural hub. It was founded and built by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, which started as a simple pathway that leads to a bustling center of business and culture. Colon was actually named after Christopher Columbos’ Spanish name Cristobal Colon where it became the heart of the business district.

In the 90’s, the mall culture of America made its way to the Philippines. Malls such as SM and Ayala began to rise in areas around Cebu City thus making it a competition to local stores. Despite time passing by, where malls and establishments branch out to different parts of Cebu, Colon still remains a historical and cultural landmark.

What to do sa Colon?

Exploring the historical landmarks gives visitors a more understanding of how Colon came to be.

If ma timingan, street performers are also present performing their talents for all to see.
Visitors can even go to the night market and experience the shops and stores that open at night. Pwede gali sa nightclubs if you’re into that.
Street foods offered at Colon street are not only delicious, but are also easy on the wallets. Gusto kag sulit nga pagkaon? Sa colon street na adto
Pwede sud mo visit sa Obelisk sa Colon to see its glory standing erect.
Sight seeing is also free as you roam around the street and marvel at the beauty of the remnants of history

Uga ug pitaka? Don’tchu worry, Colon is known to be budget friendly and has no entrance fee kaya unsa man imo gi hulat? Tara na!!

How to Get There?

Exact Location: Colon Street, Cebu City, Cebu, 6000

By Car: If you’re coming from the Cebu City Pier 1, you can exit onto S. Osmeña and drive straight to M.J. Cuenco Avenue. You will approach the Plaza Indepencia roundabout, take exit onto P. Burgos Street. Continue driving until you reach Osmeña Boulevard, then turn right. Just drive a few more blocks down and turn right again onto Colon Street.
By Commute: From the Cebu City Pier 1 look for a jeepney that has the 01B or 01C, which specifically runs through Pier 1-4 through Colon and back.

Stories That Slay: LGBTQ+ Books to Read This Pride 2025

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June 10, 2025

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Stories That Slay: LGBTQ+ Books to Read This Pride 2025

In June, we celebrate Pride Month – here are some books to read during this special time.

Pride month is a time to celebrate love, identity, and the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. As the celebration goes on, a meaningful way to honor this is by delving into stories that tells the beauty, complexity, and the strength of queer people. From feel-good romance to coming-of-age stories, these books are a way to capture the heart and experiences from different viewpoints of people.

Song of Achilles

The book “The Song of Achilles” was written by Madeline Miller, where we follow the narrative of Patroclus, an exiled prince who becomes the lover and companion of Achilles. The two boys grew up being trained by the centaur Chiron, and from this, their bond deepens into heartfelt love.

Photos from foliosociety.com | Illustrated by Julie Dillon

Red, White & Royal Blue

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston follows Alex Claremont-Diaz, the first son of President Ellen Claremont and Prince Henry of England. After their public clash, they orchestrate a faux friendship to resolve the issue. As they got to know each other, their relationship deepened in secret. Is the relationship worth the sacrifice? Lastly, how would you like people to remember you?

Screengrabs from the Red, White, and Royal Blue movie adaptation

Last Night at the Telegraph Club

The book “Last Night at the Telegraph Club” was written by Malinda Lo. The place was set in 1954 in San Francisco, where we follow a 17-year-old Lily Hu as she discovers feelings for another girl named Cath while exploring the Telegraph Club, a secretive lesbian bar scene. Lily must choose between living openly and true to her feelings or following her family’s expectations. The novel explores a powerful coming-of-age queer romance set in historical context.

Written in the Stars

Written in the Stars by Alexandria Bellefleur follows Elle Jones, a free-spirited astrologer, and Darcy Lowell, a pragmatic actuary. To stop their families’ matchmaking, they pretended to be a couple. As their agreement is set to end on New Year’s Eve, that unexpectedly leads to a much deeper attraction and intimacy. Will they remain a couple? Or will they end their pretend relationship and move on? The story includes personal growth and opposites attracting.

The Guncle

Steven Rowley wrote the novel “The Guncle”. It follows Gay Uncle Patrick, known as Guncle, who was once a famous sitcom star, who is living a quiet and reclusive life in Palm Springs until tragedy strikes. His sister-in-law dies, and his brother enters rehab, so Patrick ends up caring for his 9-year-old niece, Maisie, and 6-year-old nephew, Grant. As Patrick helps the kids with their grief, he is confronted with his past and losses. The novel explores the themes of family love and slice of life to understand what they truly mean.

In this Pride Month, if you are interested in reading these heartwarming stories. Here is the quick guide for their current price range:

The Song of Achilles is available for around ₱465–499;
Red, White & Royal Blue sells for ₱895;
Find Last Night at the Telegraph Club for approximately ₱595;
Written in the Stars ranges between ₱800 and ₱ 1,050;
The Guncle sells between ₱900 and ₱1,200.

Enjoy the narratives that embrace love, identity, and self-discovery. Happy Pride and happy reading.

#TheSugboanon: The Ice Cream Man of Starbuks

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June 10, 2025

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#TheSugboanon: The Ice Cream Man of Starbuks

Upon the Spartan Trail, you’ll find a familiar face…

Long before the sun rises, while the city still sleeps and the mountains are in mist, a familiar figure begins his quiet climb up one of Cebu’s most visited hiking trails. No, he’s not just another hiker chasing the sunrise, he’s the man who brings cold, sweet joy to every tired soul on the trail.

Meet Kuya Rey

“Alas kwatro pa lang ng umaga, gising na ako. Umaakyat ako kasabay ng mga hikers,” Kuya Rey shares with a warm smile. “Minsan, umaabot ako hanggang tuktok ng trail. Kapag naubos na ang paninda ko, saka lang ako bababa.”

Carrying his humble cooler filled with ice cream, Kuya Rey climbs the same steep trails as everyone else, often in slippers or worn-out shoes. He journeys through the woods, his steps steady and familiar with the rhythm of the mountain. By the time most hikers are catching their breath at the halfway mark, he’s already found his favorite spot to set up, a perfect resting point where the cool breeze meets tired feet and growling stomachs.

And just like that, his P20 ice cream becomes a priceless moment for many.

A Dream Worth Climbing For

Despite the effort, the earnings are modest. “Mga 800 hanggang 900 pesos po. Minsan lampas, pero kadalasan, ganun lang,” he admits. “Sakto lang. Nakakabili pa rin ako ng bigas at ulam.”

But for Kuya Rey, it’s never just about the money. “Hindi lang ito tungkol sa kita. Dito ko nararamdaman na buhay pa rin ang mga pangarap,” he says.

Kita ko ang pagod sa mukha nila, pero kapag bibili sila ng ice cream ko, ay napapangiti sila.

He has become a source of joy and a quiet inspiration. A gentle reminder that simple things, like a cold treat on a hot trail, can create unexpected warmth. His presence has become part of the hiking experience itself, a moment of rest and reward.

When asked why he chose the mountain trails, despite the long walks and heavy loads, his answer comes with a spark of hope in his eyes as he shared that he wanted to thrive for his own family that he’s building with his partner.

Gusto kong maipakita na kahit simpleng tao lang ako, kaya kong magsikap para sa pangarap naming dalawa.

More Than Just a Vendor

In a world obsessed with shortcuts and success stories, Kuya Rey reminds us that there is beauty in slow climbs, in early mornings, and in honest work. He may not wear hiking gear or post selfies on summit stones, but in the eyes of many, he is a true legend of the trail.

So next time you find yourself hiking a mountain in Cebu, listen for the soft clang of a cooler and the familiar shout of “Ice cream yummy, ice cream good!”—and remember that behind every sweet scoop is a man chasing dreams, one step at a time.

Inked Heritage

Tattoo Carving Legends

Medusa Tattoo

Dragon Tattoo

Semicolon Tattoo

Blackout Tattoo

Spider Web Tattoo

Lion Tattoo

Statement Through Ink

50 First Dates

Crazy, Stupid, Love

Just Married

Leap Year

The Proposal

REM Sleep Explanation

The Folklore behind it

The Nightmare Death Syndrome

The Nightmare Demon

Groundwork Of Danao

Revolution On The Roadway

Local Legends in the Lanes

A Look From The Past

Freedom In The New Age

No Mess Left Behind

Forks Down, Burden Up

Serving Clean & Fair

Standard 14-Day Stay

Extended 30-Day Stay

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

What to do sa Colon?

How to Get There?

Song of Achilles

Red, White & Royal Blue

Last Night at the Telegraph Club

Written in the Stars

The Guncle

Meet Kuya Rey

A Dream Worth Climbing For

More Than Just a Vendor

Looking for something?