Collectors quickly snapped up the Sinulog Festival commemorative coin shortly after its release. Interest surged as soon as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas made it available to the public. Read on for the full story behind the coin’s swift sellout and what comes next.
First in a New Series
Photo from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
The Sinulog coin marks the opening release of the BSP’s Pista sa Pilipinas Commemorative Coin Series. The program will feature 12 silver coins celebrating major Philippine festivals. One commemorative design is set for release every month throughout 2026.
Design Rooted in Cebu Tradition
Photo from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
The coin highlights Cebu’s iconic Sinulog Festival with an image of a female dancer holding the Sto. Niño. Surrounding details include the Sinulog icon, ornate patterns, and crowns. A diamond motif represents January, the month when the festival is traditionally celebrated.
Why the Coin Costs More
Photo from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
While the coin carries a legal tender value of P100, it is sold for P5,000 due to its silver composition. The BSP set the mintage at 3,000 pieces per design, making each release highly limited. These coins are intended mainly for collectors rather than daily circulation.
Strong Demand From Collectors
Photo from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
Demand surged as collectors and hobbyists moved quickly to secure the limited edition piece. BSP enforced a one-coin-per-customer rule for each design to ensure fair access. Online purchases were also offered, with buyers notified by email once their coins were ready for pickup.
Restock Update Pending
The BSP has confirmed that the Sinulog Festival Commemorative Coin is temporarily out of stock. Updates on availability will be shared through official BSP channels and its festival coin page. The strong response signals growing interest in cultural collectibles honoring Philippine heritage.
White sand, calm waters, and long beach days don’t have to come with resort prices. South Cebu is packed with public beaches where entrance fees are almost pocket change and the views stay priceless. From Dalaguete down to Badian, these spots prove you can travel slow, simple, and smart, read on for the full guide and step-by-step directions you can actually follow.
Dalaguete Beach Park (Casay Beach)
Photo from Kc KcPhoto from Kc Kc
Casay Beach in Dalaguete is a low-key coastal stop with gentle waves and a relaxed local feel. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quiet swim, a shaded break, and a beach that doesn’t feel commercial. The shoreline is clean, the water is clear, and the crowd is usually light on weekdays.
By Car: Drive south via Cebu South Road, enter Dalaguete town, then head toward Barangay Casay. Follow local signs going to the beach area.
By Commute: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, ride a Ceres bus bound for Dalaguete or Oslob (₱100–₱130). Tell the conductor to drop you near Casay. From the highway, walk or take a tricycle for ₱10–₱20.
Basdaku White Beach & Panagsama Beach (Moalboal)
Photo from Formossa DollPhoto from Formossa Doll
Moalboal offers two different beach moods in one town. Basdaku has a long white sand stretch perfect for swimming and sunset walks, while Panagsama is known for snorkeling and the sardine run just a few meters from shore. Both areas have public access that stays budget-friendly.
Photo from Jazzy Mcphee NacarPhoto from Jazzy Mcphee Nacar
How to Get There?
Location: Moalboal, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Drive straight to Moalboal town proper. Follow signs going to Basdaku Beach or Panagsama Beach. Public areas charge only ₱10–₱20 or none at all.
By Commute: Take a bus from Cebu South Terminal to Moalboal (around ₱150). From the town center, Panagsama is walkable, while Basdaku is a short tricycle ride away.
Lambug Beach (Badian)
Photo from Fa Ti Ma
Lambug Beach is quieter and less polished, which is exactly its charm. The sand is soft, the water stays clear, and the beach feels wide and open, especially on non-peak days. It’s a favorite for campers and travelers who want space and calm.
Photo from Fa Ti MaPhoto from Fa Ti Ma
How to Get There?
Location: Brgy. Lambug, Badian, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: From Badian town proper, turn toward the coastal road leading to Lambug. Follow the narrow road until you reach the beach area.
By Commute: Ride a bus bound for Moalboal or Badian (₱150). From the highway, take a habal-habal or tricycle to Lambug Beach for ₱50–₱80.
Tingko Beach (Alcoy)
Photo from Ram Mancelita
Tingko Beach is one of Alcoy’s most accessible public beaches, known for its clean sand, clear water, and open picnic areas. It’s great for day trips, family outings, and simple beach lounging without resort rules.
Photo from Ram MancelitaPhoto from Ram Mancelita
How to Get There?
Location: Alcoy, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Drive south past Dalaguete, enter Alcoy town, and follow road signs going to Tingko Beach. Public sections are free or charge around ₱20.
By Commute: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, take a bus going to Oslob (₱150–₱180). Ask to be dropped off at Tingko Beach in Alcoy.
Stick to buses to keep transport costs low, choose public beach entrances, and eat at nearby carinderias where meals start at ₱50–₱100. Bringing your own water, snacks, and beach mat helps you avoid extra spending, especially on long beach days.
Swim for hours, snorkel near Moalboal if you have your own mask, watch sunsets from the shore, or simply walk barefoot along the sand. In South Cebu, the best beach memories are often the ones that cost almost nothing.
Valentine’s Day does not always need reservations or roses from a shop. For single people, planting a rose can be a calm and meaningful way to mark the season of love. Read the full article to learn how planting roses now can reward you with blooms you’ll proudly enjoy on Valentine’s Day.
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Why Roses Make Sense for Singles
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Roses grow best when given patience, care, and space, much like personal growth. Planting one becomes a promise to yourself, not a performance for anyone else. By Valentine’s season, the blooms feel earned.
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Timing It for Valentine’s Blooms
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Planting roses during cool but stable temperatures gives them time to settle and form strong roots. This early start helps the plant focus on healthy growth before flowering season begins. Well-established roots often lead to fuller blooms by February.
Finding the Perfect Spot
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Choose a sunny location where the rose can receive consistent light each day. Sun exposure plays a big role in how many flowers the plant will produce. A quiet corner of your garden or yard works best for steady growth.
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Soil That Supports New Beginnings
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Healthy roses start with loose, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Slightly acidic soil helps the plant absorb nutrients more efficiently. Good soil prevents stress that can delay blooming.
Planting with Care and Intention
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Handle the rose gently and give the roots enough space to spread naturally. Proper depth protects the graft union and supports long-term health. A carefully planted rose settles faster and grows stronger.
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Watering as a Daily Ritual
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Regular watering helps the roots establish before flowering begins. This simple routine becomes part of your day, even if you are planting alone. Consistent moisture leads to steady growth and future blooms.
Waiting for Valentine’s Reward
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As Valentine’s approaches, new leaves and buds signal that your effort paid off. The flowers may not arrive with a card, but they bloom because of you. Sometimes the best Valentine’s gift is one you grow yourself.
Dubai chewy chocolate has slowly become one of Cebu’s most talked-about desserts, driven by its thick texture, deep cocoa flavor, and the satisfying pull that comes with every bite. Unlike regular chocolate bars, this treat is meant to be dense, rich, and shared, often sliced open to show its soft center. What started as a social media curiosity is now a café staple, with local shops putting their own spin on the trend. Below are some of the most reliable places in Cebu where you can try Dubai chewy chocolate, complete with prices and clear directions. Read the full article to find out which spot best fits your taste and location.
The Usual Coffee
Photo from The Usual Coffee Facebook PagePhoto from The Usual Coffee Facebook Page
The Usual Coffee in Talamban is often mentioned when budget-friendly yet satisfying desserts come up. Their Dubai chewy chocolate keeps things solid, chocolate-forward bite that pairs well with their coffee menu. It’s a favorite among students and nearby residents who want a quick treat without overthinking it. The café’s relaxed setting makes it easy to drop by, whether you’re studying, meeting friends, or just passing through the area.
Photo from The Usual Coffee Facebook Page
Other Informations:
₱100 per piece
₱380 per box
11 AM to 10 PM
Available via Grab and Maxim
Photo from The Usual Coffee Facebook PagePhoto from The Usual Coffee Facebook Page
How to Get There?
Location: Talamban, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By car: Drive along Talamban Road toward the interior residential area; the café is accessible from the main road, with roadside parking available.
By commute: Take a Talamban-bound jeepney such as 62B or 62C, get off near the café area, then walk a short distance.
Merci
Photo from Cafe merci in cebu Facebook Page
Merci’s version of Dubai chewy chocolate leans toward a more refined café experience. Known for clean interiors and carefully plated desserts, this Banilad spot offers a richer take, especially with its strawberry-topped option that adds a light contrast to the chocolate’s intensity. It’s a popular choice for those meeting over coffee or looking for a dessert that feels a little more special without being overly formal.
Photo from Cafe merci in cebu Facebook Page
Other Information:
₱230 per piece
₱260 with strawberry
Monday to Thursday: 7 AM to 10 PM
Friday to Sunday: 7 AM to 12 MN
Photo from Cafe merci in cebu Facebook Page
How to Get There?
Location: Maria Luisa Road, Banilad, Cebu, Philippines
By car: From Banilad Road, drive toward Maria Luisa Road; the café is located along the stretch and is easy to spot.
By commute: Ride a Banilad- or Talamban-bound jeepney, get off near Maria Luisa Road, then walk or take a short habal-habal ride.
Photo from Cafe merci in cebu Facebook Page
Celso’s Crib
Photo grab from Celso’s Crib Cafe Facebook Page
Celso’s Crib brings a playful twist to the Dubai chewy chocolate trend, offering a matcha option alongside the classic version. The café is known for experimenting with flavors while keeping prices reasonable, which makes it appealing to younger crowds and regular café-hoppers. With multiple branches across Cebu, it’s one of the most accessible places to try the dessert, especially if you’re already near a mall or major road.
Photo grab from Celso’s Crib Cafe Facebook Page
Other Informations:
₱148 per piece
₱188 with matcha
Photo grab from Celso’s Crib Cafe Facebook PagePhoto grab from Celso’s Crib Cafe Facebook Page
How to Get There?
Location: The Atrium, SM J Mall, Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines
By car: Head to SM J Mall for the Atrium branch, which offers convenient mall parking.
By commute: Take jeepneys passing through AS Fortuna or Talamban routes and get off at SM J Mall or Abellana Street, depending on the branch.
Residente Café
Photo from Residente Cafe Facebook Page
Residente Café stands out for offering one of the most affordable Dubai chewy chocolate options in Cebu without sacrificing flavor. Located in Sambag 1, it’s a practical stop for city residents who want to try the trend without heading far north. Their bundle option makes it ideal for sharing, whether you’re bringing dessert home or ordering for a small group.
Photo from Residente Cafe Facebook Page
Other Informations:
₱95 per piece
₱375 per bundle (4 pieces)
11 AM to 10 PM
Other branch: Abellana St., Tintay, Brgy. Talamban, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
Photo from Residente Cafe Facebook PagePhoto from Residente Cafe Facebook Page
How to Get There?
Location: Urgello St., Sambag 1, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By car: Drive along Urgello Street in Sambag 1; the café is located along the road, with limited street parking nearby.
By commute: Ride jeepneys that pass through Urgello or Sambag areas, get off along Urgello Street, then walk a few minutes to the café.
Dubai chewy chocolate may have started as an online trend, but in Cebu, it has settled into something more lasting. From budget-friendly café counters to polished coffee spots, each version reflects the pace and taste of its neighborhood. Whether you’re after a quick bite, a dessert to share, or a café stop worth the drive, these spots show how a simple chocolate treat can become part of the city’s everyday food culture. As more cafés join the trend, one thing is clear—the chew is here to stay.
EXO is finally heading back to the Philippines, ending a long concert drought that left local fans waiting for years. The K-pop powerhouse confirmed a Manila stop as part of its newest world tour, sparking excitement across social media. For many EXO-Ls, the announcement feels like a long-overdue reunion.
A New Chapter on Stage
Photo from EXO Official Facebook Page
The group will bring its sixth concert tour, “EXO PLANET #6 – EXhOrizon,” to Asia following its kickoff shows in Seoul. This marks EXO’s first tour since all members completed their mandatory military service. The tour signals a fresh era for the group after years of limited group activities.
Manila Dates Confirmed
Photo from EXO Official Facebook Page
EXO is scheduled to perform in Manila on July 4 and July 5 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The Philippine stop was further confirmed after local promoter PULP Live World reposted the official tour announcement. Ticket prices, seat plans, and fan benefits are still expected to be announced.
Why This Return Matters
Photo from EXO Official Facebook Page
The group last held a concert in the Philippines in August 2019 during “EXO PLANET #5 – The EXplOration.” That show featured only six members, as others were completing military service or pursuing activities abroad. A planned 2020 return was later canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recent Visits And Solo Moments
Photo from EXO Official Facebook Page
While a full-group concert was absent, EXO members continued to visit the Philippines individually for solo shows and fan meetings. These appearances kept the group connected with Filipino fans over the years. Still, many waited for the moment they would reunite on one stage.
Tour Meets New Music
Photo from EXO Official Facebook Page
“EXhOrizon” follows the release of EXO’s eighth album, “REVERXE,” which marked the group’s latest comeback. Six members participated in the album, while Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin remain in a contract dispute with SM Entertainment. The release also reunited EXO with Chinese member Lay for the first time since 2021.
Legacy That Endures
Photo from EXO Official Facebook Page
Since debuting in 2012, EXO has built a reputation as one of K-pop’s most influential boy groups. The group is known for hits like “Growl,” “Monster,” “Love Shot,” and the seasonal favorite “The First Snow.” With their Manila return, EXO adds another milestone to a career shaped by global fandom and lasting impact.
Badian, Cebu offers more than just canyoneering. In the mountain roads and rural barangays are two refreshing nature spots worth visiting in one trip: Badian Highlands in Brgy. Talayong and Basak Falls in Brgy. Basak. One gives you wide, open mountain views above the clouds, while the other offers a calm waterfall experience far from tourist crowds, perfect for travelers looking for nature without the noise.
Photo from Joey Argawanon
A Mountain View Worth the Ride
Photo from Joey Argawanon
Located along the Dalaguete–Mantolongon–Badian Road, Badian Highlands is an open view deck sitting approximately 1,640 feet above sea level. The area offers sweeping views of Badian Bay, the Tañon Strait, and Negros Island on clear days. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit, when the sky and mountains glow in soft natural colors.
What Makes Badian Highlands Special
Photo from Joey Argawanon
Badian Highlands is classified as a no-build zone, meaning no permanent structures are allowed. This keeps the area open, clean, and natural. Visitors come to walk, jog, bike, or simply enjoy the cool mountain air. Despite gaining attention, the place remains peaceful and uncrowded compared to other Cebu viewpoints.
By Car: From Cebu City, drive south via the Cebu South Road to Badian proper, a trip of about 106 kilometers or roughly 3 hours. From the National Highway, turn toward the Dalaguete–Mantolongon–Badian Road. The uphill drive to Badian Highlands is around 7.8 kilometers and takes about 15 minutes. The road is paved but steep, making private vehicles or motorcycles the best option.
By Commute: Ride a southbound bus from Cebu City South Bus Terminal to Badian. Once in the town proper, hire a habal-habal going up to Badian Highlands. Fares may be higher due to the steep climb, so it’s best to settle the price before riding.
Basak Falls, Badian: A waterfall in Barangay Basak
Photo from Julyka-mae Cediño Abendan
Basak Falls in Barangay Basak is a low-key waterfall often missed by travelers heading to more popular attractions. Some locals compare it to Kawasan, but Basak Falls stands out for its calm atmosphere, clean water, and lack of commercial development. There is no entrance fee, and the area remains largely untouched.
Why Basak Falls Is Worth Visiting
Photo from Julyka-mae Cediño Abendan
The falls sits near the access road leading to a hydro power plant, which keeps tourist traffic low. Clear water flows into natural rock pools, making it ideal for a quick dip or a quiet rest stop. Visitors are encouraged to observe leave no trace practices to help preserve the area.
Photo from Julyka-mae Cediño Abendan
How To Get There?
Location: Brgy. Basak, Badian, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: From Badian town proper, drive toward Barangay Basak and follow the road going to the CEBECO hydro power plant. Park at a designated safe area, then walk a short distance to reach the falls.
By Commute: From Badian poblacion, take a habal-habal to Barangay Basak and ask to be dropped off near the hydro power plant access road. A short trek will lead directly to Basak Falls. Wearing proper footwear is advised, especially during rainy days.
Travel plans usually begin with airfare and accommodation, but for Filipinos there is another cost: quietly waiting at the airport. A mandatory travel tax, paid separately from plane tickets, has long been part of outbound journeys. While many accept it as routine, renewed public attention is pushing the issue back into national discussion.
A Policy Rooted in History
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The travel tax did not appear overnight, as its origins go back to Republic Act No. 1678 passed in 1956. Its current structure was reinforced during the Marcos Sr. administration through Presidential Decree No. 1183 in 1977. What started as a tourism funding mechanism has since evolved into a regular requirement for departing travelers.
Who Pays and How Much
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The levy applies to Filipino citizens, permanent resident aliens, and foreign passport holders who have stayed in the country for more than one year. Today, economy class passengers pay P1,620, while first-class travelers are charged P2,700. Reduced and privileged rates exist, including special concessions for dependents of overseas Filipino workers.
Collections from the travel tax are divided among three government institutions. Half of the funds go to the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority to support tourism facilities and projects. The remaining share is split between the Commission on Higher Education for tourism-related courses and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts for cultural programs.
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Standing Alone in Southeast Asia
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Among Southeast Asian nations, the Philippines is the only country that still imposes a separate travel tax on its departing citizens. The ASEAN Tourism Agreement signed in 2002 encouraged member states to phase out similar levies to promote regional travel. Despite this commitment, the Philippine policy remains unchanged more than two decades later.
Lawmakers Push for Change
Photo from Senator Raffy Tulfo
Recent proposals in the Senate have reignited debate over the necessity of the tax. Measures filed by Senators Raffy Tulfo and Erwin Tulfo seek to exempt economy class passengers or abolish the levy entirely. Supporters argue that removing the tax could make travel more accessible and align the country with its regional neighbors.
The travel tax now sits at the crossroads of revenue generation and mobility rights. Critics see it as an added burden on ordinary travelers already facing rising costs. As Congress reviews proposed reforms, the question remains whether the policy still serves its original purpose in today’s travel landscape.
Busay Cave and Spring is one of those places locals quietly enjoy while travelers often miss. This underground spring is not just a beautiful spot, it is the main source of potable water for nearby communities. Clear, ice-cold, and framed by limestone walls, the cave offers a refreshing swim.
Photo from THS Adventures
A Natural Spring Inside a Cave
Photo from THS Adventures
At the cave entrance sits a natural rock pool filled with flowing spring water, clear enough to see straight to the bottom. The water stays cold even during peak summer, making it perfect after a long day under the Cebu sun. Locals often treat it like a community swimming pool, but the place still keeps its calm, low-key charm.
Photo from THS Adventures
Respect the Spring, Respect the Community
Photo from THS Adventures
This spring supplies drinking water to the town, so cleanliness is non-negotiable. Visitors are strongly encouraged to pack out all trash, refuse single-use plastics, and leave the place exactly as they found it. No loud music, no soap, no shampoo, just water, rock, and respect.
Photo from THS Adventures
Perfect Side Trip from Moalboal
Photo from THS AdventuresPhoto from Michelle B. Enriquez
Because of its location, Busay Spring and Cave fits perfectly into a South Cebu itinerary. It’s an easy add-on if you’re visiting Lambug Beach, Cambais Falls, or chasing waterfalls around Badian and Moalboal. Early morning or late afternoon visits are best for fewer people and cooler temperatures.
Photo from THS AdventuresPhoto from Michelle B. Enriquez
By Car: Drive south to Moalboal and continue until you reach Barangay Balabagon, the last barangay before Badian. After passing Balabagon Elementary School, look for a road on the left side before Balabagon Chapel. Turn left, follow the road going uphill toward Barangay Busay, and continue straight until you see signage for Busay Cave. Roads are slightly rough but passable for cars and motorcycles.
By Commute: From Cebu City South Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound for Oslob via Barili or Bato. Get off at Moalboal town proper. From there, hire a habal-habal or motorcycle taxi and tell the driver you’re going to Busay Spring and Cave in Barangay Busay. The ride takes around 20–30 minutes depending on road conditions.
Photo from Kim Jon Vin
Busay Spring and Cave proves that some of Cebu’s best experiences are the simplest ones. Cold water, quiet surroundings, and a reminder that nature only stays beautiful when people choose to take care of it, one visit at a time.
A proposed Senate measure is taking aim at the long-standing problem of Filipino travelers being offloaded at airports without clear justification. The bill seeks to ease the financial pain felt by passengers who miss flights due to extended immigration checks. It reflects growing concern over how pre-departure screening is being carried out.
Complaints Spark Action
Photo from Senator Raffy Tulfo Official Facebook Page
Senator Raffy Tulfo filed Senate Bill No. 1657 after his office received numerous reports from affected travelers. Many complained of inconsistent assessment standards and denied requests to review their documents. Several said they were left without a clear explanation for being barred from boarding.
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Missed Flights, Added Costs
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According to Tulfo, prolonged immigration interviews have caused some passengers to miss scheduled flights even without a court order. These delays often force travelers to pay for rebooking, new tickets, and other unexpected expenses. The senator stressed that many of those affected were not at fault.
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Balancing Security And Fairness
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The measure recognizes the Bureau of Immigration’s role in enforcing laws and preventing human trafficking. At the same time, it highlights the need to protect ordinary passengers from undue financial burden. Tulfo said public safety should not come at the expense of basic fairness.
What The Bill Covers
Photo from Senate of the Philippines Facebook Page
The proposed Passenger Protection and Reimbursement for Deferred Departures Act sets clear rules on who may be reimbursed. Passengers lacking required documents, those with court orders, or those linked to fraudulent papers or trafficking cases are excluded. Claims will be evaluated by the BI and reviewed with the Department of Justice’s anti-trafficking council.
From Policy to Protection
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While some airlines voluntarily offer refunds or rebooking, these are not required by current regulations. Tulfo’s bill aims to turn existing budget provisions into a permanent legal safeguard. If passed, it could reshape how offloading cases are handled and restore confidence among Filipino travelers.
BTS is set to return with a highly anticipated comeback concert that promises to be unforgettable. Excitement is building among fans worldwide as they await a performance full of energy and emotion. The group is preparing something truly special for their supporters.
Photo from BTS (방탄소년단) Official Facebook Page
New Music and Heartfelt Performances
Photo from BTS (방탄소년단) Official Facebook Page
The concert will feature the group’s latest music, with songs created closely by the members themselves. Each track reflects their personal journeys, emotions, and gratitude to ARMY. Fans can expect a performance that combines musical excellence with heartfelt storytelling.
Photo from BTS (방탄소년단) Official Facebook Page
World Tour and Global Reach
Photo from BTS (방탄소년단) Official Facebook Page
Following the concert, BTS will embark on a world tour, performing in several countries, including the Philippines. Fans in Asia and beyond are eagerly awaiting the chance to see the group live. This tour marks their first major performances after a long hiatus.
Photo from BTS (방탄소년단) Official Facebook Page
Full Concert Details
Photo from BTS (방탄소년단) Official Facebook Page
The free concert will take place on March 21, 2026, at Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square, following the release of BTS’s fifth full-length album, Arirang, on March 20. Organizers expect crowds of up to 200,000, with safety, traffic, and logistical measures in place. The event will include media art projections on historic landmarks and a live performance by BTS. The world tour continues at Goyang Stadium on April 9, and the Philippine leg is scheduled for March 13–14, 2027. Tickets for South Korea shows have already sold out, and Philippine ticketing details will be announced soon.
