Japan has set a new global benchmark for internet speed after researchers successfully transmitted data at 1.02 petabits per second, equal to more than 125 terabytes every second. The achievement was made by scientists from National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, marking the fastest data transmission ever recorded over a long distance.
Distance Meets Power
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The data traveled across 1,808 kilometers of optical fiber, proving that extreme speed can be sustained over real-world distances. This range is comparable to traveling across an entire country, not just inside a laboratory. The total data-distance product reached 1.86 exabits per second per kilometer, the highest ever achieved in fiber communication.
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The 19-Core Fiber Breakthrough
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At the heart of the record is a 19-core optical fiber, designed to carry far more data than standard single-core fibers. Despite its advanced design, the cable has the same thickness as existing fiber cables, about 0.125 millimeters, meaning it can fit into today’s infrastructure without major changes.
How the Transmission Worked
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Researchers used 180 parallel data streams, sent through looping fiber paths that repeated the journey 21 times to simulate long-distance travel. Advanced signal amplification kept the data stable and clear across the full route. This balance of speed and stability is what set the new record apart from earlier attempts.
Why It Matters
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At this speed, it would be possible to download the entire English Wikipedia thousands of times in one second or stream millions of ultra-high-definition videos at once. The technology could support future 5G and 6G networks, large-scale cloud systems, and fast-moving AI platforms that depend on massive data flow.
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From Research to Reality
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The fiber itself was developed by Sumitomo Electric, while the transmission system was built by NICT with international partners. Although this speed is not yet available to the public, the experiment proves that future ultra-fast networks can run on cables already installed around the world.
Starting 2026, travel plans for Filipinos are set to become easier as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) includes the Philippines (Philippines) in its visa-free entry program. This update allows qualified travelers to visit Canada (Canada) without applying for a traditional visitor visa, marking a major shift in travel access.
Photo from Pixabay
From Visa to eTA
Instead of paying the usual CAD 100 visa fee, eligible Filipinos may now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization or eTA. The eTA costs only CAD 7, roughly P301, making short trips more affordable and less time-consuming to prepare.
Photo from Pixabay
Countries on the 2026 Visa-Free List
Along with the Philippines, several other nations are included in the new visa-free entry list. These are Thailand, Argentina, Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, Seychelles, Uruguay, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. Citizens of these countries may apply under the same eTA system.
Photo from Pixabay
Who Can Apply
The eTA is available only to known travelers. This includes Filipinos who have held a Canadian visitor visa within the past 10 years or those who currently have a valid non-immigrant visa for the United States. Travelers must enter Canada by air, as cruise ship arrivals still require a regular visa.
Photo from Pixabay
Application and Payment Details
Applying for an eTA requires a valid passport, an active email address, and a credit or debit card. Once approved, the eTA is electronically linked to the passport and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires. Philippine payment options such as GCash, Maya, BPI, and BDO automatically convert the fee, usually totaling around P305 to P320 due to bank charges.
What This Means for Future Travel
This visa-free update opens more travel opportunities for Filipinos, especially for short visits, family trips, and tourism. With fewer requirements and lower costs, Canada becomes a more reachable destination for qualified travelers starting 2026.
As Sinulog season unfolds, AweSM Cebu 2026 takes celebration to exhilarating new heights, turning SM City Cebu, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall into interconnected stages of devotion, creativity, and festivity. Carefully designed to build momentum as Sinulog week approaches, the campaign layers experiences that grow in scale, emotion, and excitement, bringing the heart of the festival closer to the people.
Photo from SM Supermalls Cebu
Created for families, food lovers, creatives, pet parents, and festival fans alike, AweSM Cebu 2026 elevates everyday mall moments into a city-wide Sinulog gala, where faith meets flair, culture meets community, and celebration reaches its fullest expression.
Launched in 2019, AweSM Cebu is SM Supermalls’ signature celebration of Cebuano culture, creativity, and community. Held every Sinulog season, the campaign transforms SM malls into dynamic venues for culture, music, gastronomy, fashion, and family-friendly experiences. Through the years, AweSM Cebu has grown into a city-wide tradition, bringing the many colors, rhythms, and stories of Sinulog together, and allowing everyone to experience the festival spirit under one roof.
Photo from SM Supermalls Cebu
SM City Cebu: Where Sinulog Energy Peaks
At SM City Cebu, the celebration surges into full festival mode. Here, shopping, immersive installations, dance, and star power collide, creating an atmosphere that mirrors the pulse of Sinulog at its liveliest.
Highlights and Schedule:
• Sinulogtopia with Islands Souvenirs
January 3–28
Lower Ground, Main Mall
A festive retail space inspired by Sinulog colors, patterns, and pride.
• GLOW CITY: Sinulog Centerpiece
January 8–21
North Wing Atrium
A visually striking installation that sets the tone for the season.
• AweSM Glow Dance Competition
January 17
North Wing
High-energy performances spotlighting Cebuano talent and rhythm.
• Coco Martin Live Mall Show
January 17
Lower Ground, Main Mall
A crowd-drawing moment with one of Philippine television’s biggest stars.
• Kapuso Stars Mall Show
January 18
Main Mall
Bringing fan-favorite Kapuso personalities closer to Sinulog revelers.
Grand Spectacle:
• ILLUMINIGHT: Sinulog Drone & Pyro Show
January 18, 7:00 PM
Fronting the North Wing Expansion Building
A dazzling fusion of lights, technology, and fireworks marking Sinulog’s peak.
Photo from SM Supermalls Cebu
SM Seaside City Cebu: Faith, Flavor, and Festive Grandeur
Serving as the cultural and emotional anchor of AweSM Cebu 2026, SM Seaside City Cebu brings together devotion, Cebuano flavors, and large-scale celebrations—reflecting the deeper soul of Sinulog.
Photo from SM Supermalls Cebu
Highlights and Schedule:
• Sto. Niño Exhibit
January 8–28
Cube Wing Atrium
A reverent space honoring faith, tradition, and devotion.
• AweSM Lechon Fest
January 12–18
Seaview Wing Atrium
A showcase of Cebu’s most iconic culinary pride.
• Nakakalokal Goes to SM Seaside
January 16–18
Mountain Wing Atrium
Featuring proudly Cebuano and homegrown brands.
• Sinulog Kapamilya Caravan
January 17
Concert Grounds
A star-powered celebration with beloved Kapamilya personalities.
• AweSM Petstival
January 24
Mountain Wing Atrium
Giving fur parents and pets their own Sinulog moment.
Grand Spectacle:
• AweSM Skypark Grand Pyro Display
January 18, 9:00 PM
Skypark
A breathtaking fireworks display illuminating the Cebu skyline.
Photo from SM Supermalls Cebu
SM J Mall: Devotion Interpreted Through Art and Fashion
At SM J Mall, the Sinulog celebration unfolds in a more reflective and artistic rhythm, spotlighting how faith inspires creativity, movement, and design.
Photo from SM Supermalls Cebu
Highlights and Schedule:
• Vested in Devotion: Cebu’s Fashion in Faith
January 9–31
The Atrium, Upper Ground
An exhibit showcasing faith-inspired Cebuano fashion.
• Vested in Devotion: Rhythms of Cebu
January 18
The Atrium
Exploring music and movement rooted in devotion.
• Vested in Devotion: Runway Edition
January 31
The Atrium
A culminating fashion showcase blending tradition and modern design.
• AweSM Mask Painting
January 10
Kyureto Art Space, Second Level
A hands-on creative experience inspired by Sinulog imagery.
AweSM Cebu Sale 2026
Shoppers can enjoy festive deals and Sinulog-season finds through the AweSM Cebu Sale 2026:
• January 12–18
Participating stores at SM City Cebu, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall
Photo from SM Supermalls Cebu
A City-Wide Sinulog Finale
On January 18, AweSM Cebu 2026 culminates in a synchronized celebration across the city, where drone displays, fireworks, music, and crowd energy converge. From SM City Cebu’s sky-lit spectacle to SM Seaside’s grand pyro display, the finale delivers a powerful reminder of what Sinulog stands for: faith, unity, creativity, and joy, celebrated at maximum scale.
Sinulog 2026 is set to be one of Cebu City’s most organized and safe festivals yet. With millions of devotees and tourists expected, organizers are focusing on public safety, smooth traffic flow, and uninterrupted communication for everyone involved.
No Signal Jamming
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For the first time in several years, mobile signals will remain active throughout the festival. This allows emergency responders, media personnel, and participants to communicate freely, ensuring faster coordination and response during the grand parade and other events.
Stricter Performance Rules
Photo from Sugbo.ph
Contingents must follow precise schedules to avoid delays. Pre-judging of floats ensures all entries meet competition standards, while late arrivals will not be allowed to join the parade. These rules aim to keep the festivities running on time and maintain the quality of performances.
Parade and Event Schedule
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The grand parade will follow the same route as last year, with the main events happening at the Cebu City Sports Center. Programs are streamlined to conclude by 7 p.m., addressing past issues with extended festivities and oversized floats.
Safety and Security
Photo from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
Over 10,000 police personnel will be deployed to manage crowd control, traffic, and emergency response. Maritime security, intelligence sharing, and coordination with multiple agencies will safeguard devotees, tourists, and participants.
Religious Focus
Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu FB Page
The Sinulog Festival continues to honor the Sto. Niño. Floats and performances are required to maintain a strong religious representation, keeping the celebration true to its spiritual roots.
Visual Guidelines
Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu FB Page
Lighted or illuminated props are banned during performances to maintain visual consistency and prevent distractions. Organizers are also adding more mobile bleachers along the parade route to accommodate vulnerable groups.
Cebu City is full of students, freelancers, and young professionals always on the hunt for a perfect spot to sip coffee, grab a bite, or squeeze in some study time. Luckily, the city is dotted with cafés that are not just Instagram-worthy but also student-friendly, offering early hours, hearty meals, and cozy corners for work or study. Here are three must-visit spots you should check out.
Photo grab from Google Maps
ESS Cafe: Early Mornings Made Better
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ESS Cafe now opens its doors at 7:30 AM, giving students and professionals a head start for the day. Located at the 2nd floor of Montesclaros Building along Pelaez Street, right across USC Main, this café is ideal for a morning coffee or a quick breakfast bite. ESS Cafe serves rice meals, a variety of coffee, and non-coffee drinks, making it a versatile spot for early risers.
Photo grab from Google Maps
How To Get There?
Location: 2F Montesclaros Bldg., Pelaez St., Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Drive along Pelaez Street and look for Montesclaros Building across USC Main; parking is limited along the street.
By Commute: Jeepneys bound for USC or Colon drop passengers near the building, just a short walk uphill.
Quarter Cafe: Cozy Corners for Afternoon Study
Photo grab from Google Maps
Quarter Cafe welcomes visitors from 10 AM to 7 PM on weekdays and 11 AM to 7 PM on Saturdays, making it perfect for midday study sessions. Located along Junquera Street, Brgy. San Antonio, across from the Philippine Christian Gospel School, the café offers rice meals, pastries, coffee, and non-coffee drinks. Must-have include matcha frappe, Caramel Macchiato, and Spanish Latte.
Photo grab from Google Maps
How To Get There?
Location: Junquera Street, Brgy. San Antonio, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Driving along Junquera Street, you’ll find the café near the school landmark. By Commute: Ride jeepneys heading to San Antonio or Capitol and walk a short distance to reach the café.
Photo grab from Google Maps
10 Cafe: All-Day Comfort and Coffee
Photo grab from Google Maps
Open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM, 10 Cafe at 258-L Uytengsu Street, near 1075 Dormitel, is a haven for students needing a long study session. The menu features rice meals, fries, breakfast sandwiches, coffee, matcha, and non-coffee beverages, making it an all-day stop for meals and caffeine fixes.
Photo grab from Google Maps
How To Get There?
Location: 258-L Uytengsu Street, near 1075 Dormitel, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By Car, follow Uytengsu Street and watch for signage near 1075 Dormitel.
By Commute: Take jeepneys or habal-habal (motorbike taxi) to Uytengsu Street, then walk a few steps to reach the café.
Photo grab from Google Maps
Whether you’re an early bird, a midday hustler, or someone who thrives late into the evening, Cebu City has a coffee spot to match your schedule. Pack your laptop, grab your favorite drink, and make these cafés your go-to study or chill spots.
Cebu City will temporarily close the Cebu South Bus Terminal on January 18, 2026, in preparation for the Sinulog Grand Parade. The move is part of a wider traffic and transport plan designed to manage the large volume of people expected to attend the annual religious and cultural celebration.
The closure will be in effect for the duration of major Sinulog activities on the same day. Regular bus operations at the terminal will be suspended to allow the area to be reorganized for official and security use.
Traffic and Security Adjustments
Photo grab from Google Maps
The cleared terminal will be used as an orderly parking space for mayors and other elected officials attending Sinulog events. This setup is intended to prevent roadside parking that could cause heavy congestion along Natalio Bacalso Avenue and nearby streets.
Vehicle access near the Cebu City Sports Center, the venue of the Sinulog Ritual Showdown, will be strictly limited. Only emergency vehicles and select city officials will be allowed inside to ensure smooth traffic flow and faster emergency response.
Photo grab from Google Maps
Changes in Bus Operations
Photo grab from Google Maps
Southbound buses will continue operating but will be redirected to the El Pardo or Industrial Road area at the South Road Properties starting 3 a.m. on January 18. The temporary terminal will serve as the loading and unloading point for passengers traveling to southern Cebu.
Northbound bus operations will remain unchanged, with buses continuing to use their usual routes and terminals. This arrangement aims to minimize inconvenience for commuters while maintaining order during the festivities.
Photo grab from Google Maps
Transport Options for Devotees
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To support the movement of Sinulog attendees, at least 27 MyBus units will be deployed in both northern and southern parts of Cebu City. Operations will begin at 5 a.m. to accommodate devotees attending early morning novena activities.
Private vehicle owners are advised to avoid entering downtown Cebu, where most Sinulog activities will take place. Motorists are encouraged to park at nearby malls and transfer to MyBus services to reduce traffic and keep roads near the Basilica del Santo Niño clear.
The Philippines is taking a major step to safeguard animals with a P10-million budget dedicated to the Animal Welfare Supervision and Accreditation Program. The funding aims to improve care for rescued and sheltered animals while strengthening the organizations that protect them.
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P10 Million Boost for Animal Welfare
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The 2026 national budget officially includes the P10-million allocation to ensure animal welfare programs receive professional support and oversight. This marks a significant investment in the country’s efforts to prevent cruelty and neglect.
Professionalizing Enforcement
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The program focuses on professionalizing animal welfare enforcement. Standard procedures, trained personnel, and consistent law application will help ensure animals are protected and abusers are held accountable.
Supporting Organizations on the Ground
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Credible animal welfare organizations will benefit from the funding, enabling them to rescue, shelter, and rehabilitate animals more effectively. These groups are key players in reducing cruelty and neglect nationwide.
Family Advocacy at the Forefront
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Senator Francis Pangilinan’s family is deeply involved in animal welfare. His wife has long supported animal rescue initiatives, taking in rescued pets and raising funds for shelters. Their combined efforts show how personal advocacy can drive meaningful change.
Responding to Cruelty
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Animal abuse remains a pressing problem. In one case, a dog was beaten to death in Mountain Province while bystanders failed to intervene. Incidents like this underscore the need for stronger protections and public awareness.
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A Step Toward Change
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The new program provides a structured and well-funded approach to animal welfare. By supporting enforcement and local organizations, the government hopes to create safer spaces for animals and reduce cruelty across the country.
Kasadya Beach stretches for six kilometers of powdery white sand. A gentle cluster of coconut trees punctuates the shoreline, evoking the charm of Boracay but with fewer crowds. The calm ambiance and sea breeze make it a perfect escape for visitors seeking relaxation away from the busier tourist spots.
Why Visit Kasadya Beach
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Ronda may be a quiet, lesser-known town in southern Cebu, but its beach is a local favorite. The long stretch of sand and serene environment create a peaceful retreat, ideal for unwinding or enjoying a slow-paced afternoon by the sea. While it may not rival the island destinations in popularity, Kasadya Beach rewards those who seek off-the-beaten-path experiences with its natural beauty and tranquility.
Photo grab from Google Maps
Plan Your Trip
Photo grab from Google Maps
Whether you come for a brief visit or a full day by the shore, Kasadya Beach offers the perfect backdrop for leisure and reflection. Pack light, bring your essentials, and enjoy a soothing escape in one of Cebu’s understated coastal treasures.
By Car: Set your navigation app to “Kasadya Road, Ronda, Cebu” using Waze or Google Maps. Drive south via the main highway, and once in Brgy. Sta. Cruz, look for locals to confirm the exact spot. Ample parking is available for visitors, making a self-drive trip convenient and hassle-free.
By Commute: From Cebu City, head to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Board any bus that passes through Ronda; you can confirm with the driver to ensure the bus route includes the town. The beach is directly beside the main road, so simply ask the driver to drop you off at Kasadya Beach. The journey typically takes around two hours.
Wanna One is officially reuniting for a new group project. On January 2, Mnet confirmed that the members have agreed to return for a reality show, marking their first official activity as a group since their disbandment. The program is scheduled to air in the first half of 2026.
Photo from Wanna One 워너원 Official Facebook Page
A Teaser That Sparked Excitement
Photo from Wanna One 워너원 Official Facebook Page
Speculation began on January 1 when Mnet Plus released a short teaser titled 2026 Coming Soon. The clip featured the group’s well-known cassette tape symbol along with the words See You Again, a lyric from Spring Breeze. The teaser quickly caught the attention of fans and fueled reunion talks.
Photo from Wanna One 워너원 Official Facebook Page
Members Hint at a Reunion
Photo from Wanna One 워너원 Official Facebook Page
Interest grew stronger when several members, including Lee Daehwi, Park Jinyoung, Yoon Jisung, Hwang Minhyun, Ha Sungwoon, and Park Woojin, shared the teaser on their Instagram stories. Their posts added weight to the rumors and signaled that something meaningful was coming.
A Reality Show for Fans
Photo from Wanna One 워너원 Official Facebook Page
The reunion will take the form of a reality program, a format closely associated with Wanna One’s early success. The project was chosen as a way for the members to reconnect with fans and revisit the group dynamic that made them popular during their original run.
From Produce 101 to Global Fame
Photo from Wanna One 워너원 Official Facebook Page
Wanna One was formed through Mnet’s Produce 101 Season 2 and debuted in 2017. The group included 11 members: Kang Daniel, Park Jihoon, Yoon Jisung, Hwang Minhyun, Ong Seongwu, Kim Jaehwan, Bae Jinyoung, Lee Daehwi, Park Woojin, Lai Kuanlin, and Ha Sungwoon. Despite promoting for less than two years, the group became one of the biggest acts of its generation.
Photo from Wanna One 워너원 Official Facebook Page
Life After Disbandment
Photo from Wanna One 워너원 Official Facebook Page
The group officially disbanded in 2019 and last performed together at the 2021 Mnet Asia Music Awards. Since then, members have focused on solo careers and other group activities, including Minhyun with NU’EST and Daehwi and Woojin with AB6IX. Wanna One remains known for hit songs such as Energetic, Boomerang, and Spring Breeze, tracks that continue to define their legacy.
Photo from Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco is facing renewed public attention after a controversy involving a magazine cover that prominently featured her image instead of Philippine destinations. The issue quickly gained reaction online and sparked debate about the use of visibility and representation in tourism promotions.
The Social Media Spark
Photo from Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco
The controversy began when advertising and production executive Max Abasolo posted online about his disappointment over a magazine cover. He referenced the massive scope of tourism materials produced nationwide, pointing out that hundreds of tourist spots were documented, yet a portrait of the tourism secretary appeared on the cover instead. Although the post was later deleted, screenshots circulated widely and fueled criticism.
Magazine at the Center
Photo from Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco
The publication involved was the first issue of Philippine Topics, an 82-page free magazine released in December 2025. Produced by YJS Advertising and Marketing Corp. and printed by B-Ticket Inc., the magazine featured Frasco on its cover alongside a banner highlighting the Philippine Pavilion at the Osaka World Expo 2025. Several inside pages focused on the Department of Tourism, the secretary, and national tourism plans.
Public Reaction Online
Online discussions largely questioned why a government official was the main visual focus instead of travel destinations. Critics argued that tourism materials should prioritize landscapes, culture, and local experiences rather than personalities, especially when public tourism promotion is involved.
Department of Tourism Response
Photo from Department of Tourism
The Department of Tourism rejected claims that the magazine cover was a form of self-promotion by the secretary. The agency stated that it had no control over the magazine’s editorial decisions and did not provide or approve the photograph used on the cover. It emphasized that the publication is privately owned and independently produced.
Clarifying the Expo Coverage
Photo from Department of Tourism
According to the department, Philippine Topics independently covered activities related to the World Expo in Osaka, Japan. The DOT maintained that it neither commissioned nor paid for the magazine’s content, including the cover story, and had no role in selecting images or text.
Why the Issue Matters
Photo from Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco
The situation highlights ongoing public sensitivity around the use of images linked to public office. While the DOT denies any involvement, the incident has reopened discussions on transparency, boundaries, and how tourism promotion should visually represent the country rather than its officials.
