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Lost in the Gentle Roar of Bugasok Falls

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Lost in the Gentle Roar of Bugasok Falls
Photo from Julius Barrientos

If you’re looking for a destination that combines adventure, peace, and raw natural beauty, Bugasok Falls in Argao, Cebu should be on your list. Deep within the mountain barangay of Conalum, this underrated waterfall offers a peaceful escape where you can breathe in the crisp mountain air and listen to the soothing harmony of nature.

A Sanctuary Hidden in the Mountains

Photo from Julius Barrientos

Bugasok Falls is one of Argao’s best-kept secrets, a place where time seems to slow down and the noise of the city fades away. The journey begins through the rich forests and winding trails that lead to the rhythmic sound of water cascading down a rocky cliff. The falls are surrounded by towering trees and rich vegetation, creating a natural amphitheater that feels almost sacred.

The serenity of Bugasok makes it the perfect spot for reflection and relaxation. The cool mountain breeze, the noise of leaves dancing, and the symphony of birds all come together to offer a rare sense of calm. For nature lovers and peace seekers, it’s an ideal place to reset your mind and refresh your spirit.

The Journey to the Falls

Photo from Julius Barrientos

Getting to Bugasok Falls is an adventure in itself, and there are two ways to experience it.

For those who love trekking, the scenic route starts from the bridge in mainland Argao that crosses the river. The trail follows the riverside upstream, where you’ll pass through forested cliffs and large rock boulders. It’s often described as an “enchanted walk”, a journey where you’ll encounter unique plants, wildflowers, and the occasional native bird.

Make the Most of Your Argao Adventure

Photo from Charles Geverola Lasula

A trip to Bugasok Falls is best paired with a full-day exploration of Argao’s other attractions. You can visit a tablea factory to see how local cacao beans are roasted and molded into the traditional Cebuano chocolate known as “tablea.” The weaving industry in town showcases the artistry of local weavers who create intricate handwoven products. Don’t miss trying Argao’s famous torta, a sweet and fluffy native pastry that perfectly captures the town’s culinary heritage.

If you’re a fan of history, explore Argao’s Spanish-era pueblo, where stone structures, ancestral homes, and the old church still stand as silent witnesses to the town’s rich colonial past. You can also visit the mountain view deck, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, a perfect way to end your Argao adventure.

A Hidden Paradise Worth the Journey

Photo from Charles Geverola Lasula

Whether you choose to trek through forested trails or ride a habal-habal up winding mountain roads, Bugasok Falls offers a rare experience that blends adventure and serenity. Its unspoiled beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it one of Cebu’s true hidden gems.

In the heart of Argao’s mountains, Bugasok Falls invites you to disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself, one splash, one breath, and one moment at a time.

How to Get There?

Location: Barangay Conalum, Argao, Cebu, Philippines

  • By Car: From Cebu City, drive south via the Cebu South Road. The trip to Argao usually takes around two and a half to three hours, depending on traffic. Upon reaching the Argao town proper, head towards Barangay Conalum using local road signs or a navigation app like Google Maps. You can park your vehicle near the jump-off point and either continue the trek on foot or hire a habal-habal to take you closer to the falls.
  • By Commute: If you’re commuting, head to the South Bus Terminal in Cebu City and take a Ceres Bus bound for Argao. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Argao town proper. From there, hire a habal-habal to Barangay Cansuje or Conalum.
Photo from Charles Geverola Lasula

A 5-STAR AIRLINE ROUNDTRIP FROM MANILA TO TAIPEI FOR ₱13,600

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A 5-STAR AIRLINE ROUNDTRIP FROM MANILA TO TAIPEI FOR ₱13,600
Photo from Starlux Airlines Facebook Page

Who says flying with a five-star airline is only for the rich and fancy? This Christmas season, travelers are in for a surprise, roundtrip flights from Manila to Taipei for only ₱13,600 via Starlux Airlines, available from December 26 to 30. A luxury flight experience for less than what most budget airlines charge sounds impossible, but this deal proves otherwise.

Why Low-Cost Doesn’t Always Mean Cheaper

Photo from Starlux Airlines Facebook Page
Photo from Starlux Airlines Facebook Page

For years, many travelers believed that low-cost carriers were the only affordable way to fly. However, frequent travelers have started to realize that budget doesn’t always equal savings.

Low-cost airline rates often look appealing at first glance, but those displayed prices are typically just the base fares. Taxes, terminal fees, and other surcharges come later and can significantly increase the total. When comparing airlines, it’s always best to look at the final price, not just the advertised fare.

Another hidden cost comes with baggage. Budget carriers usually exclude check-in luggage, and while some travelers can manage with carry-ons, most can’t, especially during winter or when shopping abroad. Purchasing additional baggage allowance can easily drive the total fare beyond that of a full-service airline.

The Full-Service Advantage

Photo from Starlux Airlines Facebook Page
Photo from Starlux Airlines Facebook Page

Flying with a five-star airline like Starlux offers more than just prestige. It comes with inclusions that make traveling convenient and stress-free, checked baggage, in-flight meals, and flexible rebooking policies are all part of the standard fare.

Beyond these practical benefits, the experience itself is more comfortable. Passengers enjoy better service, more legroom, and a smoother journey overall. For long trips or family vacations, that comfort can make all the difference.

The Smart Traveler’s Takeaway

Photo from Starlux Airlines Facebook Page

This isn’t about dismissing low-cost carriers, they remain a great option for short, simple trips. But it’s a reminder for travelers to always compare before booking. Sometimes, the full-service option can be not only more comfortable but also more affordable in the long run.

So before clicking “book” on that budget fare, take a moment to explore what premium airlines are offering. Affordable luxury is not a myth, and with deals like this Manila-to-Taipei roundtrip for ₱13,600, it’s proof that five-star travel can fit your budget too.

CCAD 2025: The Rise of Cebu’s Creative Renaissance

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CCAD 2025: The Rise of Cebu’s Creative Renaissance

In the vibrant heart of the Visayas, where heritage and modernity converge, Cebu once again crowns itself as the country’s creative capital. The Cebu Culture, Art and Design Foundation (CCAD) unveils its grand cultural trifecta, the Visayas Art Fair, the Bodega Design Caravan, and the Blue Mango Awards, a luxurious celebration of artistry, craftsmanship, and imagination that reaffirms Cebu’s prestige as a UNESCO Creative City of Design and a luminous force in the Philippine creative economy.

At the helm of this cultural renaissance is CCAD’s distinguished Board of Trustees: Overall Chairperson Maria Luisa “Mari” Booth, President Christina Borromeo-Gaston, Vice President Kenneth Cobonpue, Corporate Secretary and Visayas Art Fair Chairwoman Lorenza “Laurie” Boquiren, Auditor Carlo Cordaro, and Press Relations Officer and Blue Mango & Affiliates Chairperson Butch Carungay. Visionaries and vanguards of design, they continue to Connect, Create, and Cultivate, their collective leadership shaping a legacy that elevates Filipino creativity from the islands to the international stage.

The Visayas Art Fair

Marking its fifth glorious year on November 13–16, 2025 at Oakridge Business Park, the Visayas Art Fair once again becomes the epicenter of culture and conversation. In partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), this landmark fair gathers 246 artists, 25 galleries, and a roster of luminaries from across the Visayas, Luzon, Mindanao, and Korea, creating a rare and radiant convergence of regional and global expression.

This year’s Featured Artist of the Year, Gil Francis Maningo, leads with brilliance, headlining “PASINAYA,” a back-to-back exhibition with Marian devotee and mixed-media artist Danny Rayos del Sol. Through masterful gold leaf, figurative elegance, and spiritual devotion, their works offer a transcendent dialogue between muse and Madonna, between earthly beauty and celestial light. Gold becomes not simply material, but metaphor, faith, femininity, and Filipino artistry illuminated.

The Bodega Design Caravan

Returning to the Oakridge Pavilion with refined elegance, the Bodega Design Caravan transforms interiors, fashion, cuisine, and craftsmanship into a sensorial journey. Under the creative direction of Christina Borromeo-Gaston, the Caravan celebrates the soul of Visayan design: brave, forward-thinking, and beautifully Filipino.

This year introduces Culinary Canvas, where cuisine is elevated into performance, and the Cebu Literary Festival, where words and design meet in one inspired narrative. With 66 design exhibitors and 31 literary exhibitors, the Pavilion becomes a living gallery of objects, textures, flavors, and ideas, proof that design is not merely seen, but felt.

The Blue Mango Awards

Culminating the celebration, the Blue Mango Awards distinguish leaders whose work moves the industry forward, visionaries of innovation, sustainability, heritage, and social impact. Their triumphs echo a singular truth: Filipino design is world-class, purposeful, and enduring.

A Celebration Built on Partnership, Passion, And Purpose

With the support of the NCCA, DTI, Oakridge Realty and Development Corporation, Airspeed, The Company, and a constellation of creative and industry partners, CCAD continues to nurture a thriving ecosystem, one where collaboration blossoms, and culture becomes a catalyst.

A Golden Moment For The Islands

The 2025 Visayas Art Fair celebration is a movement, a living testament to who we are as creators, Filipinos, and visionaries of the islands. Through art, design, and cultural imagination, Cebu stands not only as a destination, but as a declaration, creativity is our inheritance, our identity, and our future.

Other Informations:

Ticket Prices:

General Admission – ₱170

3-Day Pass – ₱480

Senior Citizens, PWDs & Students (ID must be presented upon registration) – ₱150

Tickets available at: https://bit.ly/VisayasArtFairRegistration2025

More information:

Visayas Art Fair Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visayasartfair
Visayas Art Fair Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visayasartfair
Bodega Design Caravan: https://www.facebook.com/bodegadesigncaravan

Website: https://www.thevisayasartfair.com

M Lhuillier drops its Biggest Promo of the Year – Merry ML-yonaryo Raffle Promo!

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M Lhuillier drops its Biggest Promo of the Year – Merry ML-yonaryo Raffle Promo!

Get ready for the most wonderful time of the year, because M Lhuillier, the undisputed “Numero Uno ng Bayan” non-bank financial institution in the Philippines, is spreading massive cheer—and massive cash—with its Merry ML-yonaryo Raffle Promo! Forget your Christmas wish list. This year, you could be wishing for seven million reasons to celebrate!

Your Chance to Become a Millionaire!

That’s right, M Lhuillier is making not one, but seven lucky customers instant millionaires this holiday season! Imagine starting the new year with a PHP 1,000,000 extra boost—that’s the kind of Christmas magic M Lhuillier is bringing straight to you.

How to Get Your Raffle Entries

The best part? Earning a raffle entry is super easy, and you’re probably already doing it! Every eligible transaction you make with M Lhuillier helps you get closer to that grand prize.

Here are the services that qualify you for a chance to win:

  • ML Quick Cash Loan – Jewelry Sangla or Prenda, Renewal, and Redemption
  • Jewelry Purchases – Every P5,000 spent on M Lhuillier Jewellers Showroom items or during branch Subasta gets you an entry.
  • Home Loan – TCT/CCT Prenda or sangla, Renewal, and Redemption
  • Car Loan – OR/CR Sangla or prenda, Renewal, and Redemption
  • ML Kwarta Padala – Domestic Sendout only
  • ML Kwarta Padala – International Send and Receive transactions
  • Bills Payment
  • Insurance – In-branch purchase only
  • Game Top Up – Via branch or MCash

So whether you’re sending money to family, paying your utility bills, getting a quick loan, or finally buying that piece of jewelry you’ve been eyeing, you’re earning a shot at becoming a Merry ML-yonaryo!

Important! Validate Your Entry and Get the Raffle Ticket!

Make sure your entry is officially counted. Don’t forget to register to get your raffle ticket:

Look for the QR Code: After your qualifying transaction, scan the promo QR Code available in all M Lhuillier branches nationwide or on their digital ads, posters, flyers, and billboards.

Register Accurately: Fill out the online registration form completely and accurately using the details found on your transaction receipt.

Screenshot the Confirmation: Once your registration is complete, take a screenshot of the confirmation receipt. And make sure to keep your original transaction receipt. This is your proof of entry and your ticket to becoming a millionnaire!

Don’t skip the registration! Only verified entries will be included in the grand draw.

Key Dates to Remember

Mark your calendars! You have almost three full months to rack up as many entries as possible:
🗓️ Promo Period: October 5, 2025, to December 31, 2025

🗓️ Grand Draw: January 8, 2026

Don’t let this massive opportunity pass you by. Start transacting with M Lhuillier today and make this holiday season your most rewarding one yet! Seven lucky winners will be chosen to start 2026 with a plot twist, and one of them could be you!

Learn more about the promo and register thru this link: https://mlhuillier.com/raffle/ML-YonaryoRegistration

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-238749 Series of 2025

What M Lhuillier service will you use first to get your entry for the Merry ML-yonaryo Raffle Promo? Let us know in the comments below!

Libre Lubong Nalapas na sa Balaod

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Libre Lubong Nalapas na sa Balaod
Photo from Congressman Duke Frasco Facebook Page

A new law promises to ease the financial burden of loss for thousands of poor Filipino families. Republic Act No. 12309, or the “Free Funeral Services Act,” has officially lapsed into law on September 28, 2025, after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. neither signed nor vetoed it within the 30-day period prescribed by the Constitution.

Under Article VI, Section 27(1) of the 1987 Constitution, a bill transmitted to the President automatically becomes law if no action is taken within 30 days. Although RA 12309 has not yet been published in the Official Gazette as of press time, it is now officially recognized as a law of the land.

A Lifeline in Times of Grief

Photo from Mayor Cindi King Chan

The Free Funeral Services Act seeks to institutionalize the assistance currently offered by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) under its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program.

Before RA 12309, the DSWD provided funeral aid ranging from ₱5,000 to ₱50,000, depending on the family’s financial need and documentation. With the new law, families identified as “in crisis situations”, including indigent households and those affected by disasters or emergencies, will receive a comprehensive funeral package at no cost.

This package will cover every essential aspect of the funeral process:

• Preparation of funeral documents

• Embalming

• Burial services

• Transportation of remains

• Cremation and inurnment

• Provision of a casket or urn

Who Can Avail of the Free Funeral Package?

Photo from Mayor Cindi King Chan

To qualify, beneficiaries must be validated by the DSWD as being in crisis or financially incapable. Families must submit the following documents to avail of the service:

• A valid ID of the deceased’s representative

• A death certificate issued by the hospital or local health office

• A funeral contract signed by the family representative, the funeral establishment, and authorized DSWD personnel

• A social case study report prepared by a DSWD social worker

Payments for the funeral establishments providing these services will be handled by the DSWD’s regional offices, upon approval of the regional director, based on the signed contract.

Funding and Implementation Challenges

The initial funding for RA 12309 will be drawn from the ₱44.75-billion AICS budget for 2025. However, the DSWD’s proposed budget for next year does not include a specific line item for the Free Funeral Services Act.

To address potential shortfalls, lawmakers have moved to increase the AICS budget for 2026, from ₱27 billion to ₱60 billion, to accommodate the new law’s implementation and sustain its funding requirements.

Despite this, some policymakers have raised concerns about how swiftly and efficiently the DSWD can roll out the program nationwide, especially given the agency’s existing caseload under AICS, which also covers medical, transportation, and educational aid.

From Congress to Law

Photo from Congressman Duke Frasco Facebook Page

The bill was first passed by the Senate during the 19th Congress as Senate Bill No. 2965 on June 2, 2025. The House of Representatives later adopted the Senate’s version as an amendment to its House Bill No. 102 on June 11.

The enrolled bill was transmitted to Malacañang on August 28, giving the President until September 27 to act. By choosing not to sign or veto it, President Marcos allowed the measure to lapse into law the following day, on September 28.

A Final Act of Compassion

Photo from Congressman Duke Frasco Facebook Page

For countless Filipinos who struggle to give their loved ones a dignified farewell, RA 12309 represents more than just financial relief, it is a gesture of compassion during life’s most painful moments.

As the DSWD prepares to roll out the program’s implementing rules and guidelines, the new law is seen as a crucial step toward dignity in death for the country’s poorest citizens, a reminder that even in mourning, no Filipino should be left behind.

Must-Try Cafés in Minglanilla, Cebu

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Must-Try Cafés in Minglanilla, Cebu

Looking for your next coffee adventure just south of Cebu City? Minglanilla is slowly brewing its name as a haven for café lovers, from mountain-view hangouts to artsy nooks with local poetry performances. Here are some must-visit cafés in Minglanilla that deserve a spot on your weekend café crawl list!

1. Links Café

Photo from Links Cafe

Hidden along Apostol Street, Links Café offers more than your usual caffeine fix. This cozy spot occasionally hosts live balak (poetry) performances, a uniquely Cebuano experience where art, emotion, and coffee blend beautifully. Whether you’re in the mood for quiet reflection or soulful entertainment, Links Café is a refreshing find.

How to Get There:

Location: Apostol St., Brgy. Calajoan, Minglanilla, Cebu

  • By Car: From South Road Properties (SRP), drive straight toward Minglanilla town proper, then take the Calajoan road. Apostol Street is a few minutes away from the highway.
  • By Commute: Ride a jeepney bound for Minglanilla or Naga and drop off at Calajoan. From there, take a short habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) ride to Apostol Street.

2. Miggy’s Café Minglanilla

Photo from Miggy’s Cafe Minglanilla

If you’re chasing that island vibe, Miggy’s Café brings Siargao feels right to Minglanilla! With its relaxed tropical aesthetic, this café is perfect for late-night hangouts, iced coffee dates, or a chill study spot.

Other Information:

  • Mon–Fri 12:00 PM–12:00 AM
  • Sat–Sun 3:00 PM–12:00 MN

How to Get There:

Location: MH Selma St., Calajoan, Minglanilla, Cebu

  • By Car: From the national highway, enter MH Selma Street near Calajoan. The café is just a few minutes from the main road.
  • By Commute: Take a jeepney bound for Minglanilla and alight at Calajoan corner MH Selma. From there, it’s a short walk or habal-habal ride to the café.

3. Happy Sip Café

Photo from Happy Sip Cafe

Perched below Gullas Heights, Happy Sip Café offers a breathtaking overlooking view of Minglanilla’s mountain scenery, an ideal spot for sunset coffee sessions. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the view, makes every sip a little happier.

How to Get There:

Location: Cadulawan, Minglanilla (below Gullas Heights)

  • By Car: Drive up to Cadulawan via Gullas College of Medicine road, then head down the slope near Gullas Heights.
  • By Commute: Ride a jeepney to Minglanilla proper, then take a habal-habal to Cadulawan and tell the driver to drop you below Gullas Heights.

4. Povlato Café and Resto

Photo from Povlato Cafe & Resto

At Povlato Café and Resto, good food meets great service. With a wide menu and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s a local favorite for families and barkadas. Their hearty meals and sweet desserts are best enjoyed with company, and smiles are definitely part of the experience.

Other Information:

  • Mon–Fri 8:30 AM–10:00 PM
  • Sat 8:30 AM–11:00 PM

How to Get There:

Location: Jacob Commercial Building, Tungkop, near Midori Subdivision

  • By Car: From the Minglanilla highway, turn right at Tungkop Road near Midori Subdivision. The café is inside the Jacob Commercial Building.
  • By Commute: Ride a jeepney or tricycle to Tungkob and ask to be dropped near Midori Subdivision. The café is a short walk away.

5. The Selah Café

Photo from The Selah Cafe

The Selah Café is where comfort food meets cozy ambiance. From appetizers to rice bowls, sandwiches, and desserts, this café has something for every craving. Its modern yet homey vibe makes it a great spot for study dates or late-night catch-ups.

Other Information:

  • Mon–Fri 9:00 AM–12:00 AM
  • Sat 9:00 AM–10:00 PM
  • Sun 1:00 PM–10:00 PM

How to Get There:

Location: Minglanilla, Cebu

• By Car: Head south to Minglanilla town proper, then follow local directions via the main road.

• By Commute: Take a jeepney to Minglanilla and ask to be dropped off near the town center

Final Sip

Whether you’re in the mood for mountain views, poetry nights, or tropical café vibes, Minglanilla has it all. Each café offers something special, proving that great coffee and cozy corners aren’t just found in the city. So the next time you’re down south, make sure to stop by these must-try cafés and sip your way through Minglanilla!

Cebu City to Establish First Public Pet Cemetery

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Cebu City to Establish First Public Pet Cemetery
Photo from Unsplash

Cebu City is set to open its first public pet cemetery as part of its “Cebu City 2035” vision for a smart, sustainable, and inclusive metropolis. The initiative, introduced during Mayor Nestor Archival’s first 100 days in office, aims to provide a dignified resting place for pets regarded as family members by many Cebuanos.

Plans Still Underway

Photo from Mayor Nestor Archival FB Page

Details on the location, design, and timeline are still being finalized, but the project highlights the city’s goal of extending compassion to all forms of life. It seeks to promote responsible pet ownership while ensuring that animals are treated with respect even after death.

Growing Demand for Pet Aftercare

Photo from Unsplash

The plan comes as more pet owners in Cebu call for accessible cremation and burial services. Currently, only a few private facilities exist, including Golden Haven Memorial Park’s pet crematorium in Binaliw, the first in the Visayas and the third nationwide.

Addressing Improper Disposal

Phot from Unsplash

The proposed cemetery also responds to past incidents of improper pet disposal, which have raised health and environmental concerns. Decomposing remains left in public areas can pose risks to nearby residents and contribute to sanitation problems.

Toward a Humane City

Photo from Unsplash

Once established, the public pet cemetery is expected to offer a respectful and affordable option for grieving families. The project symbolizes Cebu City’s broader commitment to compassion, sustainability, and inclusivity, values at the heart of its long-term development vision.

CASA MIRA TOWERS MANDAUE: GIVING MORE VALUE AT THE HEART OF THE CITY

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CASA MIRA TOWERS MANDAUE: GIVING MORE VALUE AT THE HEART OF THE CITY

A well-balanced lifestyle starts at home – a space to rest, recharge, and find joy in life’s meaningful moments. In a world where hectic schedules and long commutes can turn everyday into a rush, finding a home that supports both activity and relaxation is key to achieving a lifestyle that lets you balance your busy days with comfort and convenience.

Casa Mira Towers Mandaue by leading developer in Visayas and Mindanao Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI) is the perfect home for those who want MORE out of everyday living. This master planned community is designed to meet the needs of starting families, young professionals and empty-nesters whose lifestyle is always on-the-go.  

Ideal address that gives MORE space

Nestled at one of Cebu’s major growth centers, Mandaue City, the four-tower residential development is a short drive away from business establishments, transportation hubs, lifestyle destinations, and major thoroughfares for convenient accessibility within a dynamic community. 

Casa Mira Towers Mandaue showcases thoughtfully designed living spaces from studio units (20.13 sqm) and 1-Bedroom units (35.67 sqm), where residents and their families have more space to connect, relax, and thrive.

Designed to Live MORE

Within its community are generous “resort-inspired” amenities that allow residents to experience life without compromise. A clubhouse, adult and kiddie pool, fitness gym, play area, multi-function rooms, beautifully manicured parks and open spaces to greet homeowners who simply need a quick respite or winding down after a long day.

Located on its ground floor is a two-storey retail bloc to make grocery shopping and daily essentials within reach. This puts businesses and commercial shops closer to its homeowners. 

More retail and healthcare establishments are set to open soon, including Maxicare, Mr. DIY, Tuburan Coffee, Cookies and Dream, A Little Tea, Balai Pandesal, TUF, Body and Sole, among many.

It also promotes a safe and secure environment for its residents with enhanced safety features around the development, including 24/7 security, CCTV in common areas and is managed by its own CLI Property Management team.

Get MORE for your Investment

Every homeowner at Casa Mira Towers Mandaue assures they get MORE out of their urban living experience by transforming their dream home into a valuable investment that lasts. 

Unit prices start at P3.5 million and up to P6 million, with flexible payment options through bank payment and Pag-IBIG Financing.

By choosing a home that puts your convenience and personal growth first, you create the foundation to live a more balanced, fulfilling life every day.

Philippine Pavilion Wins Silver at Expo 2025 Osaka

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Philippine Pavilion Wins Silver at Expo 2025 Osaka
Photo from Lapu-Lapu City Information Office

The Philippine Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka has won the Silver Award for Exhibition Design, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) announced Monday. The award, given by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), honors outstanding self-built pavilions under 1,500 square meters.

Woven Together for a Better Future

Photo from Lapu-Lapu City Information Office

Under the theme “Nature, Culture & Community: Woven Together for a Better Future,” the pavilion has attracted over one million visitors since April. It showcased Filipino artistry, innovation, and heritage through interactive displays, AI-powered installations, and cultural exhibits.

Showcasing Filipino Craftsmanship

Photo from Lapu-Lapu City Information Office

The pavilion’s highlight was its live performance façade, featuring 200 handwoven panels made by artisans from all 18 Philippine regions, symbolizing unity and creativity. Inside were AI photobooths, a Hilot wellness corner, and the Habi Shop selling local crafts.

A Legacy That Lives On

Photo from Lapu-Lapu City Information Office

According to the TPB, parts of the pavilion will be brought home to the National Museum and displayed at the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Cebu in January 2026.

From April 13 to October 13, Expo 2025 Osaka became a proud moment for the Philippines proving that Filipino design and culture can truly shine on the world stage.

TIPS FOR FINDING SECURE ONLINE PLAY ACROSS THE PHILIPPINES

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TIPS FOR FINDING SECURE ONLINE PLAY ACROSS THE PHILIPPINES
Photo from Unsplash

Online play is a very popular activity in the Philippines. During the COVID-19 pandemic, people had to find alternative recreational activities that didn’t require stepping out of their houses and many turned to a variety of online games at the time. Online casinos, fantasy sports, video games and sports betting became centers of attraction for fun seekers in the Philippines.

However, as the number of online players grew, so did the risk involve. Cybercriminals saw this growth as an opportunity to milk unsuspecting fun seekers of their resources. In this article, we discuss how to enjoy secure online play in the Philippines and popular tactics used by cyber attackers.

How is the online gaming scene in the Philippines?

Photo from Unsplash

The Philippines has one of the largest online gaming populations in Southeast Asia. The online gaming options cut across a variety of choices. The entire gaming industry in the Philippines is regulated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). The corporation licenses locally operated online gaming platforms, ensuring that the gameplay is fair and that players’ money and personal details are protected.

However, some foreign platforms have targeted the Philippine market and are not regulated by the PAGCOR. While many of these offshore platforms are legitimate, others are not, which places players at risk. This is why security should be a primary concern for players whether they are using a local or offshore platform.

What should players look for to ensure secure gameplay?

1.   Verify the platform is licensed and regulated

Don’t sign up or deposit any money if you have not verified the legitimacy of the platform. If the platform is locally owned, you can check through the homepage for a PAGCOR sign, which signifies that they are under the oversight of PAGCOR. Alternatively, you can verify their license through the PAGCOR guarantee site, where the regulatory body lists gaming institutions under their oversight.

There are also legitimate online casinos in the Philippines that are regulated by foreign trustworthy bodies, such as the Malta Gaming Authority or the United Kingdom Gambling Commission, among others. https://www.askgamblers.com/online-casinos/countries/ph provides a list of some of the best ones. The licensing authority is usually found at the bottom of the homepage.

It is cause for concern when there is no licensing information on the platform, the bonuses are outrageously high, or the terms and conditions are poorly written. A regulated platform is obligated to offer fair games, fund protection and reliable dispute handling.

2.   Choose secure payment options

A study showed that Filipinos lost over $8bn in the 12 months between 2023 and 2024 due to insecure payment transactions. This is why it’s important to exercise due diligence to ascertain the credibility of a payment option before using it. A secure payment option is usually encrypted and has positive user reviews. The most popular secure payment options for online players in the Philippines are:

As a rule of thumb, do not enter your payment details if a padlock sign doesn’t appear on the website bar. The padlock sign indicates that the page uses SSL encryption, a protective feature.

Photo from Unsplash

3.   Get clues from real reviews of other users

Reviews can save you from a ton of regrets. While gaming platforms may have reviews on their sites, it is safer to use third-party platforms. Usually, social media forums are the best place to get honest feedback. Feedback could range from the stability of the platform to the promptness of payouts and how responsive their customer service is. You might also want to pay special attention to reviews that sound too promotional. If you feel something is odd, then it probably is.

4.   Test their customer service responsiveness

Usually, a platform that takes player security seriously is prompt in resolving inquiries and complaints from players. You can send a query to test their response. A credible platform should be available around the clock with multiple channels, such as phone, live chat and email.

5.   Use personal security practices

Despite using the services of secure gaming platforms, it is key that players take their personal security into their own hands. Whether it’s on a mobile device or a computer, there are antivirus and firewall programs that can protect your device during online gameplay. Also, to protect yourself from unauthorized logins, two-factor authentication can be of help.

Common security issues that online gamers in the Philippines face

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1.     Phishing scams and fake websites

Cybercriminals often trick unsuspecting players into submitting their personal login and financial details by mimicking authentic platforms and websites. Once these details fall into the wrong hands, they can be used to commit identity theft and fraud.

2.     Malware and spyware attacks

There are some pirated gaming platforms that are infected with spyware and malware that can steal the details of players.

3.     Weak data protection

Player details are one important point of discussion in the gaming industry. Some platforms store player details with weak encryption. This makes details like payment and login information susceptible to cyber theft.

4.     Unlicensed and rigged platforms

Offshore platforms often have the subtle privilege of bypassing the regulatory oversight of PAGCOR. Some of these platforms lack clear ownership or licensing information. In rare cases, they may manipulate results or use complex cash-out policies to deny players their winnings.

Your security starts with smart choices

No one should need to worry about their security while using an online gaming platform. Interestingly, not every online gaming platform offers tight security, even in the Philippines. To find the most secure sites, verify the platform is regulated and licensed, choose secure payment options, read real reviews from other users and test their responsiveness to customer questions.

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