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12% VAT Increases on Disney+, Netflix, and other Digital Platforms

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The bigger the prices, the emptier our bank accounts.

Photo from Pexels

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act No. 12023, which implements a 12% VAT on digital services provided by foreign companies. This law targets various digital service providers, including those offering music, online advertising, software, and movies such as popular platforms like Disney+, Netflix, etc. The goal is to recoup revenue that has been lost due to unclear tax regulations on e-commerce, particularly from foreign entities serving Filipino consumers.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. indicated that while the VAT is set at 12%, this does not necessarily mean that prices will rise by that same percentage.

The law aims to enhance the BIR’s ability to collect VAT from foreign digital services, and the Department of Finance supports this move. Lumagui also mentioned that despite some recent shortfalls in collection targets, the BIR remains optimistic about its performance and plans to intensify enforcement efforts.

Now you know, expect additional prices of your membership fees, annual fees, or monthly fees of your favorite digital platforms because of this value added tax. The increase would go into effect on October 17, 2024.

Fame & Governance: Celebrity & Influencers Running for PH 2025 Election

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The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) officially started accepting certificates of candidacy (COC) on Tuesday, October 1, in preparation for the 2025 midterm elections.

This process marks the formal declaration of those seeking to run for various positions in the upcoming elections. Among the candidates are a notable number of celebrities from the entertainment industry, social media influencers, and beauty pageant figures who have decided to enter politics. With over 18,000 elective positions available at both the local and national levels, the 2025 elections promise to bring a diverse mix of candidates into the political arena.

Below are the list of celebrities and influencers who have filed for candidacy on the next election:

Arjo Atayde

The award-winning actor has officially filed his certificate of candidacy, seeking a second term as the representative of Quezon City’s first legislative district under the “Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas” party. If re-elected to the House of Representatives, he pledged to prioritize advancing the city’s flood control project, aiming to address one of its most pressing issues.

Alex Castro

The singer-actor is running for reelection as vice governor of the province, alongside his running mate, Daniel Fernando, who is seeking the governorship. Castro previously served in Bulacan’s Sangguniang Kabataan and Municipal Council (both for Marilao) and was a member of the Provincial Board for the fourth district. Their campaign focuses on continuing efforts to resolve Bulacan’s decades-old flooding issue.

Diwata

Social media personality Deo Balbuena, popularly known as Diwata and owner of Diwata Pares, is the fourth nominee of the Vendors Partylist. He humorously promised that if elected to Congress, he would offer “unli Pares” and free soft drinks in the House of Representatives. The partylist has committed to establishing a cooperative to provide vendors with easier access to necessary support, including assistance in securing a place to sell for those without one.

Marc Gamboa

The political vlogger behind the YouTube channel “Models of Manila TV” is running for senator, representing vloggers, online sellers, freelancers, and content creators. His platform includes plans to establish a dedicated office to combat fake news. In addition to supporting online sellers and content creators, he aims to create a 24/7 office focused on monitoring and reporting fake news.

Marco Gumabao

The actor is venturing into politics, having filed his certificate of candidacy for congressman in Camarines Sur’s fourth district. His bid is backed by the Villafuerte clan under the National Unity Party.

JC Parker

Former actress and Viva Hot Babe seeks reelection as the city councilor of Angeles, Pampanga.

Ion Perez

The “It’s Showtime” host is running for a counselor position in Concepcion, Tarlac, under the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC). His affiliation with the NPC highlights his commitment to forging strong alliances and serving with a broader sense of purpose.

Enzo Pineda

The actor, whose father Enrico previously served as a representative for the 1-Pacman Partylist in Congress, has filed his certificate of candidacy for councilor in Quezon City’s fifth district. When asked about his priority projects, Pineda mentioned that he has already been conducting medical missions across various barangays.

Rosmar Tan

The content creator and entrepreneur is running as an independent candidate for councilor in Manila’s first district. If elected, she plans to focus on initiatives such as providing maintenance medicines to senior citizens who cannot afford them.

Alfred Vargas

The actor-politician is running for reelection as councilor in Quezon City’s fifth district. He previously served three terms as the district’s congressman, and before that, a term as councilor for the city’s second district. He promises to prioritize public service over producing films, focusing fully on his role as councilor.

Who would you among these celebrity candidates; have you already decided? Keep that in mind until the 2025 Philippine general election, held on May 12, 2025.

Vote wisely!

Meat & Sea: Kumedor Filipino Cuisine Restaurant in Lapu-Lapu

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Grilling season is prime time to steak your claim at Kumedor!

Are you hungry, Sugboanons? We can practically hear your stomach rumbling from here, so what are you in the mood for? We know the answer—a delicious Filipino cuisine in a unique setting.

Step into a Bali-inspired, clean, and orderly atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. Take the refreshing route to the home of the best chicken inasal and grilled ginabot. Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Kumedor offers a cozy ambiance that invites you to relax and enjoy every moment. Whether you’re dining with family, friends, or colleagues, Kumedor makes you feel right at home.

THE BEST-SELLING GINABOT

Kumedor takes pride in their Bacolod Chicken Inasal and in their signature dish—the Grilled Ginabot. Known for being the first to offer this delightful creation, it pairs beautifully with their homemade vinegar. Reviews praise this dish for being both juicy and crunchy, adding to its unique appeal.

Aside from that, you can also savor the taste of the ocean with their fin-tastic tuna recipes, while you relish the juiciness of their tender-iffic grilled pork. Kumedor offers a delightful array of your favorite Filipino dishes in a comfortable atmosphere, perfect for a satisfying family dinner. Once you try just one item from the menu, your taste buds will rejoice at the luscious twists that await. 

If you’re seeking a true culinary experience, Kumedor is a restaurant you won’t want to miss.

IS KUMEDOR PET-FRIENDLY?

As a matter of fact, yes! Kumedor is one of the most pet-friendly restaurants in all of Cebu. They welcome all breeds with open arms, and in fact, they have their own furry babies they take care of. There is nothing more important than dinner with your family, and your pets are your family. So, bring your furry friends of all shapes and sizes to enjoy a purr-fect meal together.

Kumedor Dogs: Wanda, Coffee, Bronski, Oreo, Mama dog

Additionally, they also care for local strays, so if you’re a kindhearted human being to animals, feel free to bring them inside. After all, anything is paw-sible!

Kumedor is more than just a fantastic restaurant; it’s the perfect venue for your private event. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, wedding reception, or corporate gathering, they’ll close the doors to the public for the day, ensuring your event is the top priority without any interruptions from customers coming and going. Enjoy an exclusive experience tailored just for you!

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

Set Meal + Java Rice

  • Bacolod Chicken Inasal Paa – Php 235.00
  • Bacolod Chicken Inasal Pecho – Php 265.00
  • Pork Barbecue 3pcs – Php 90.00
  • Pork Belly – Php 320.00
  • Tuna Panga – Php 295.00

Extras

  • Java Rice – Php 40.00
  • Plain Rice – Php 25.00

Appetizer

  • Calamari – Php 360.00
  • Sizzling Sisig – Php 270.00
  • Sizzling Tofu – Php 310.00
  • Chicken Wings (Garlic Parmesan) – Php 290.00

Platter

  • Chicken Inasal Paa 3pcs – Php 565.00
  • Chicken Inasal Pecho 3pcs – Php 650.00
  • Pork Belly – Php 290.00
  • Pork Barbecue 5pcs – Php 250.00
  • Grilled Ginabot 5pcs – Php 250.00
  • Tuna Panga – Php 265.00
  • Shrimp (Cajun Sauce, Butter Garlic, Alavar Sauce) – Php 490.00
  • Steamed Pompano – Php 550.00
  • Fried Pompano – Php 450.00
  • Kanto Fried Chicken 5pcs – Php 430.00
  • Lechon Kawali – Php 340.00

Soup

  • Sinigang Shrimp – Php 410.00
  • Sinigang Baboy – Php 380.00
  • Pochero – Php 780.00

Noodles

  • Batangas Lomi – Php 210.00
  • Pancit Guisado – Php 380.00

Veggies

  • Chopsuey – Php 280.00
  • Adobong Kangkong – Php 160.00

Coffee

  • Americano – Php 120.00
  • Iced Americano – Php 125.00
  • Latte – Php 130.00
  • Iced Latte – Php 135.00

Soda

  • Coke Regular/Zero – Php 90.00
  • Sprite – Php 90.00
  • Royal – Php 90.00

Juices

  • Fresh Calamansi – Php 95.00
  • Blue Lemonade – Php 95.00
  • Brewed Iced Tea – Php 95.00
  • Calamansi Can – Php 85.00
  • Four Seasons Can – Php 95.00
  • Mango Can – Php 95.00
  • Pineapple Can – Php 120.00
  • Blue Lemonade Pitcher – Php 290.00

Alcohol

  • Pilsen Can – Php 115.00
  • Red Horse Can – Php 150.00
  • San Miguel Premium Can – Php 150.00
  • Soji – Php 250.00

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Red Coco Town, Hadsan Complex Agus, Lapu-Lapu City, Philippines, 6016

  • By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps, and set your destination to “Kumedor, Red Coco Town.” They have a wide parking space for your car.

Dress Code in Basilica Should Be Your Common Sense, Not a Rule

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Dress to impress our dear St. Niño.

On October 1, 2024, the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño in Cebu implemented a strict dress code policy to end the practice of providing shawls to visitors wearing inappropriate attire for worship. Or to prevent them from wearing inappropriate attire for that matter.

Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino
Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino

This decision, announced by the Augustinian Friars, aims to maintain the sanctity and solemnity of the historic church. The policy specifies that inappropriate upper garments include:

  • Spaghetti straps
  • Tube tops
  • Sleeveless shirts
  • Tank tops
  • Crop tops

Inappropriate lower attire includes:

  • Short skirts
  • Low-waist pants
  • Ripped jeans

*Any kind of hats is also prohibited.

Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino

Despite the church’s dress code, why does this rule even exist? Shouldn’t we be able to use common sense and dress appropriately without being told? When we attend church, we are entering the house of God!

Dressing respectfully reflects our reverence for God and the sacredness of worship as we make a public covenant with Him; showing honor. Wearing an attire that goes against the dress code can be seen as a sign of disregard, reflecting a lack of respect for the Almighty. And for nonbelievers, it simply shows the lack of respect for other religions, cultures, and traditions.

To our dear Sugboanons, for the love of God—no pun intended, next time you enter the Basilica or any church around the world, it is in our common sense that we should wear proper attire; not because it’s a rule, but to show we respect God enough to call ourselves His worshippers and that we respect the beliefs of other people’s religion.

Betting on Innovation: How Fintech is Revolutionizing Gambling Software

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Over the past few years, gambling has been one of the most progressive industries in integrating innovations. Fintech and gambling software have combined in the recent past, and this has brought change, innovation, security, and efficiency in transactions. Fintech solutions are becoming more deeply embedded in gambling platforms, changing how players engage with online casinos, sportsbooks, and other betting sites. In this article, we will see how fusing the concept of fintech with gambling software is changing the face of online gaming and what it means for stakeholders.

1. The Rise of Fintech in Gambling: A New Approach in Transactions

Fintech has made it possible to develop new technologies in the financial sector with the aim of making the process of transacting faster, safer, and more convenient for consumers. In the gambling industry, these innovations have been quickly implemented as the players require quick, safe, and convenient financial transactions.

Digital Wallets and Instant Payments: E-wallets such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller have become increasingly popular among online gamblers. These wallets enable players to hold money, make deposits, and withdraw quickly compared to conventional methods. To gambling operators, integrating digital wallets is a value proposition to attract players using technology as their preferred mode of payment for convenience and quick transactions.

Cryptocurrency Integration: Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others have successfully penetrated the gambling industry. Cryptocurrencies rely on blockchain based on the transaction’s decentralization, transparency, and security. From players’ perspectives, this ensures privacy and lowers transaction charges. At the same time, it provides a platform through which operators can access players from different parts of the world without the interference of conventional banking systems. Also, since blockchain is unchangeable, all transactions are well protected to minimize fraud cases.

Instant Banking Solutions: Open banking APIs have brought instant banking features to the game, where a player can directly transfer money in real time. This removes the middlemen and reduces the costs of transactions, hence providing a smooth process for the players and operators. These solutions are especially attractive in markets where the use of digital wallets or cryptocurrencies is limited.

2. Enhancing Security: Fintech in the gambling software industry

On the same note, Fintech has a crucial role in the gambling industry, especially in boosting security features. In the online gaming environment where vast amounts of money are transacted, and people share private information, it is crucial to have measures to secure clients as well as service providers.

Advanced Encryption and Fraud Detection: Fintech has played a significant role in introducing enhanced methods of encryption to gambling platforms to make transactions as secure as possible. Encryption ensures that data in transit is secure and cannot be tampered with in any way, thus making it difficult for hackers to get through. Also, fintech solutions typically come with features that employ artificial intelligence and machine learning to detect and prevent fraud in real time. This ensures that the operators can safeguard their platforms and the players from any form of risk.

Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance: This is an essential concern for gambling operators, especially in regions with strong anti-money laundering laws. Fintech solutions help in the KYC processes that involve identifying players and preventing AML practices. This not only speeds up player onboarding but also minimizes the chance of the operators being penalized by regulators.

Secure Payment Gateways: Fintech also helps gambling platforms become more secure by integrating secure payment gateways. These gateways perform the intermediary role between the player and the operator, facilitating the movement of funds while ensuring the information is securely stored. Through the integration of the fintech payment gateways, gambling sites can, therefore, provide their clients with multiple payment options while at the same time guaranteeing the safety of the transactions.

3. Improving User Experience 

As competition is quite high in the sphere of online gambling, customer experience is one of the major factors that influence traffic and engagement. The advancement in the Fintech industry has significantly transformed clients’ experiences by increasing the number of payment methods, speeding up the transaction process, and increasing accessibility.

Omnichannel Payment Solutions: This is because gamers are not only restricted to desktops but also have access to mobile phones and tablets, making it easier for fintech to create omnichannel payment solutions. It enables players to deposit, place bets, and withdraw winnings easily, irrespective of the device they use, giving the players a uniform experience.

Personalized Financial Management: Some of the standard features of gambling software developed by fintech companies include the management of players’ funds. For instance, some platforms provide features that include individual spending restrictions, history of transactions, and budgeting facilities that assist the players in regulating their gambling activities. These tools are more useful when it comes to the prevention of problem gambling and to make sure that players do not exceed the amount they have set for themselves.

Global Accessibility: The integration of fintech solutions has helped to increase the accessibility of online gambling websites by accepting players from all over the world. Players from around the globe can deposit using their most convenient payment methods, including e-wallets, cryptocurrencies, or direct bank transfers. It has also led to expanding the operators’ markets as they can provide services to a broader audience.

4. Challenges and Opportunities: Future Development of Fintech and Gambling Industry

While integrating fintech and an online gambling software provider brings several opportunities, it also comes with risks that operators must address to remain relevant in the current and future markets.

Regulatory Compliance: With advancements in payment systems, fintech companies have introduced new methods and technologies into the market, which has called for constant changes in the frameworks put in place by regulatory bodies to check on the risks associated with these innovations. Gambling operators are responsible for monitoring these changes and ensuring they have not violated any rules and regulations, such as data protection, AML, and payment processing rules.

Adapting to New Technologies: Fintech is progressing at a very rapid rate, and this means that gambling operators have no choice but to keep on adapting to new technologies. For example, DeFi and NFTs can be considered promising trends and threats for the gambling sector. Firms that integrate such technologies in their operations will be in a better position than those that take longer to do so.

Balancing Security with User Experience: Security is a big concern, but it should not be at the cost of usability so that the user’s experience is not compromised. For instance, complicated authentication procedures may deter players and cause them to quit. It is up to the operators to strike the right balance between security and convenience, and this can only be done if they embrace the use of fintech solutions.

Conclusion

Fintech, along with gambling software, is thus paving the way for new advancements in the online gaming industry. These solutions are helpful for gambling operators as they have made transactions faster, more secure, and more convenient, thereby helping them compete with other operators in the market. It can be concluded that as the industry develops further, fintech technologies will be of higher importance for the further development of online gambling.

For players, it certainly translates to an improved, safer, easier, and more tailored experience. It opens up possibilities for operators to enter new markets, draw more customers, and be on the right side of regulations. With the two industries of fintech and gambling software moving closer together, the industry is ready for the future in which technology improves the gaming experience and changes how players approach online gambling sites.

The History of Sugbo.ph: A Toast to a Decade of Growth and Success

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A-10-tion, Sugboanons, we are turning 10!

Do you ever wonder how Sugbo.ph started? As we celebrate a decade of success, let’s take a journey back in time to uncover the origins of this digital magazine’s rise to fame across the province.

It all started with our founder, Ram Mancelita, and a simple idea. What began as a casual travel blog shared among him and his college friends, driven by their shared passion for adventure, soon blossomed into something much bigger. And because of this passionate talent they possess, Sugbo.ph was created; to help Sugboanons expand their travels and grow their businesses.

In its early days, Sugbo.ph was once from a modest office on the 2nd floor of the Eastern Shipping Lines Building, M.J. Cuenco Ave., Brgy. San Roque, Cebu City. But everything changed once the company experienced rapid growth, its original office could no longer meet their expanding needs, prompting a move to their current location at 3F-05 One Montage Tower, Archbishop Reyes Ave., Brgy. Kamputhaw, Cebu City. More space, a nicer office or a better location would make everything easier in improving the workforce.

It wasn’t just Ram who runs Sugbo.ph, it takes a dedicated team to build a successful company, and together they’ve made Sugbo.ph what it is today. Through their determined efforts to promote tourism and striving hard to be the most effective local influencer with a good purpose, Sugbo.ph grew into the thriving digital platform you know today—a leading magazine that highlights beloved tourist spots and proudly showcasing Cebu as one of the most must-visit destinations in the world.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Over the following years, Sugbo.ph was greatly met with numerous awards and achievements, appreciated for all their hard work to achieve successful results.

  • Sugbo.ph received a Plaque of Recognition from Healthy Pilipinas for their support of the DOH-CVCHD Health Promotion and Education initiatives, playing a vital role in promoting the Healthy Pilipinas campaign.
  • According to Alexa.com’s website rankings, Sugbo.ph earned the title of the #1 Cebu-focused blog with the highest reader traffic and visitor engagement.
  • At the Best Cebu Blogs Awards, Sugbo.ph was awarded as the Best Cebu Events/Entertainment Blog and named a Top Influencer.
  • Sugbo.ph was honored with the Social Media Advocacy of the Year award at the Globe Media Excellence Awards.
  • On November 18, 2022, Sugbo.ph was honored with a Plaque of Appreciation for their generous media partnership in the Cebu Business Month 2022, contributing to the success of CBM 2022: GO Cebu!
  • On April 12, 2024, Senior Manager Hannah Mae Abelgas was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by The Freeman Newspaper for her insightful participation as a panelist in the inaugural The Freeman Business Forum with the theme “Trends That Shape Cebu’s Tourism Landscape.”
  • On April 27, 2024, Sugbo.ph was awarded Best Cebu Digital Magazine at the 42nd People’s Choice Excellence Awards, held at City of Dreams Manila. Founder Ram Mancelita and Senior Manager Hannah Mae Abelgas accepted the award, expressing their gratitude and commitment to continuing the platform’s legacy.
[Center Left] Hannah Mae Abelgas, Sugbo Senior Manager; [Center Right] Ram Mancelita, Sugbo CEO

“I’m humbled by the extraordinary success that Sugbo.ph has achieved over the years. Through the team’s dedication to showcasing Cebu’s finest, Sugbo.ph has become a transformative force, inspiring and empowering our community. This is just the beginning of our remarkable journey in helping elevate the local scene to the world.

Ram Mancelita, Founder

HOW’S IT GOING

The progress of Sugbo.ph digital magazine has been quite promising. We are currently focusing on enhancing our content offerings and increasing audience engagement, as well as looking forward to more upcoming projects and strategic collaborations. But, one thing is for sure, Sugbo.ph will continue to be the platform made by Sugboanons and for the Sugboanons!

Happy 10th Anniversary, Sugbo.ph!

The Art of Local Marketing: Elevating Your Business

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In an age dominated by digital marketing, the charm and effectiveness of traditional media still hold a significant place, especially for local businesses. One impactful tool that often gets overlooked is the print flyer. These colorful, engaging pieces of paper can convey a wealth of information and draw potential customers to your door. Let’s explore how leveraging print marketing can transform your local marketing strategy.

Capturing Attention in a Visual World

In a world where our eyes are glued to screens, print materials offer a refreshing change. Their tactile nature allows people to engage with your brand in a physical way. With vibrant colors and compelling designs, a well-crafted flyer can catch the eye of passersby and communicate your message quickly and effectively. Unlike digital ads that may be overlooked or ignored, a flyer can invite curiosity and prompt a closer look.

Targeted Distribution for Maximum Impact

One of the greatest advantages of print marketing is the ability to distribute materials strategically. Whether you choose to hand them out at local events, include them in community newsletters, or place them in local businesses, targeted distribution can help you reach your desired audience. For instance, if you own a fitness studio, distributing flyers at local health fairs or gyms can directly connect you with individuals interested in your services.

Showcasing Your Unique Offerings

Printing flyers provide an excellent platform to showcase your unique offerings. You can highlight special promotions, new products, or upcoming events in a visually appealing format. Using eye-catching graphics and concise, persuasive text can create an emotional connection with your audience, encouraging them to take action—whether that’s visiting your store, attending an event, or checking out your website.

Building Brand Awareness and Trust

Consistency in branding is crucial for any business, and print materials can help reinforce your brand identity. By using your brand colors, logos, and imagery, flyers can create a cohesive visual message that strengthens brand recognition. Furthermore, having a physical representation of your business can build trust with potential customers. A well-designed flyer signals professionalism and commitment, making people more likely to engage with your business.

Cost-Effective Marketing Solution

For small businesses or startups with limited marketing budgets, print marketing can be a cost-effective solution. Designing and printing flyers can be done on a relatively small budget, yet they can yield substantial returns when distributed effectively. With the right strategy, the investment can lead to increased foot traffic and sales.

The Final Touch

Incorporating print materials into your marketing strategy can elevate your business in ways that digital marketing alone may not achieve. By engaging customers physically, targeting your distribution, showcasing your offerings, and reinforcing your brand, you create a memorable experience that can drive action. Embracing traditional print marketing alongside digital efforts can lead to greater visibility and success in your local community.

Get Ready to Sing, Play, & Dance: BIGWIN29 Brings Fusion: The Philippine Music Festival to Cebu!

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Cebu! Get ready for a musical experience like no other! BIGWIN29 is excited to bring you FUSION: THE PHILIPPINE MUSIC FESTIVAL on October 5, 2024, live at City Di Mare. This spectacular event promises a celebration filled with exceptional performances, high-energy beats, and surprises that will leave you wanting more.

Headlined by some of the biggest stars in OPM

Prepare to be enchanted by heartfelt anthems from December Avenue and get all the feels while vibing to Zack Tabudlo’s greatest hits. Rising star Maki and P-Pop sensation Kaia will bring the heat on the stage and keep the crowds on their feet with their dynamic music too!

Adding a local touch to the festival, Cebu’s very own Karaoke World Championships (KWC) Philippine Winner, Francis Alinsonorin, will take the stage, together Cebu finalists Jovie Loon and Nica Jañola.

Cebu’s finest DJs, DJ Victor Jao, DJ Matt, and DJ Via Chan will light up the night with their beats – turning City Di Mare into a dance floor. The energy and beats of their sets is expected keep the vibe kicking!

Special appearance of El Presidente, Nadine Lustre

To top off the evening, BIGWIN29’s muse, Nadine Lustre, will captivate the audience as she graces the evening. BIGWIN29 will prepare a grand production number that promises to be the festival’s crowning highlight.

And that’s not all! BIGWIN29 will be giving away tons of prizes and giveaways, ensuring that every attendee has a chance to go home a winner.

FUSION is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of music, culture, and community crafted especially for Cebuanos. With a stellar lineup and unforgettable experiences, BIGWIN29 invites everyone to come together and play as one.

The New Channel or TNC, an alternative new media platform supports this event as its flagship project this year called Karaoke World Championships (KWC) Philippines. 

Mark your calendars for October 5, be at City Di Mare, and don’t miss out on this incredible event! For more details follow us on social media! Facebook: https://facebook.com/bigwin29 | Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigwin29_official/ | Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigwin29_official | Twitter: https://x.com/BIGWIN29_ph or visit their official website at www.bigwin29.com

Secure your tickets now at Ticketmelon: https://www.ticketmelon.com/praxis/fusion-cebu. 

For more FUSION stories, follow: https://thenewchannel.com/highlights/category/event/fusion-the-philippine-music-festival/

Let the music and winning moments begin! #BIGWIN29Fusion #FusionCebu 

Flash Dial: Cebu City Now Activates 911 Emergency Hotline

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“911, what is your emergency?”

Photo from Canva

There’s a common frustration in Cebu: the lack of a quick, unified emergency hotline. Every emergency hotline in Cebu City has individual cellphone and telephone numbers for each police station and hospital around the city. Instead of speed dialing one simple number, residents have had to memorize them all. In an emergency, that’s a major hassle—every second counts, and there’s no time to waste fumbling for the right number.

Photo from Canva

Well, good news! Cebu City announced that 911 Emergency Hotline is now ACTIVATED. Any emergency is accepted. You no longer need to dial a long 11-digit number—just press 9-1-1, easy to remember and available for both cellphones and landlines.

Photo from Canva

No load? No problem! You can still make the call, because emergencies shouldn’t wait for a trip to the store aron magpaload.

Do you have an emergency here in Cebu? Call 911 now!

Note: Prank calling 911 is illegal. You will face serious charges and the police would have to place you under arrest!

Consider yourself warned, Sugboanon. If you fail to follow this law, guess who’ll be laughing. Hint: it won’t be you.

Cebu’s Best Meet-Up Spots, According to our Sugboanons

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Laag ta na! Asa ta kita? Dia na ko, ma’am. Asa ka dapit?

Photo from Ayala Center Cebu’s Official Facebook Page

These are the question we often ask a lot when looking for the perfect meet-up spots. Whether you’re planning to finally meet your online date face-to-face, or gathering with friends for an outing, or your Shopee delivery driver has arrived, but can’t seem to find where your address is, so you give him an easier landmark.

We asked our fellow Sugboanons for their top recommendations on the best meet-up spots here in Cebu. The responses varied—some tagged their friends, others responded with dark humor, but most provided us with some great suggestions. 

Here are the top five meet-up spots in Cebu, according to our Sugboanons:

SKYWALK

Imagine a room-with-a-view, but instead of a room, it’s an open, elevated view of the city. Skywalks are perfect for this. One person stands on the higher level, getting a bird’s-eye view of where their partner could be. The partner below raises their hand, making it easier to spot each other.

If you’re looking for a quick way to find each other, a skywalk is the ideal choice. Cebu City has plenty of them! Just agree on which one to meet at, and you’re good to go.

AYALA TERRACES

Photo from Ayala Center Cebu’s Official Facebook Page

Located at Ayala Center Cebu, but the most specific meet-up area is the Ayala Terraces where the garden of aesthetic plants are, and an old acacia tree where you can sit and talk. The vibrant colors of flowers, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes provide a visually appealing backdrop for your meeting. This beauty can enhance the overall experience and create memorable moments.

Photo from Ayala Center Cebu’s Official Facebook Page

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: The Terraces, Ayala Center, Cebu City, Cebu

  • By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin the exact location above as your destination. 
  • By Commute: From SM City Cebu, ride a 04L jeepney and instruct the driver to drop off at The Terrace of Ayala Center Cebu.

7 ELEVEN

Photo from 7Eleven Philippines

It’s only a meet-up—not a serious date or anything—so any nearby 7/11 branch is an ideal spot. Picture this: you and your meet-up partner are deep in conversation, and before you know it, time flies. You might start feeling hungry, but luckily, there’s a store right nearby where you can grab snacks. If you’re meeting up with your friends here, those snacks can be perfect for your outing. Packing is everything. Plus, if your Shopee delivery driver needs a landmark, he’ll know exactly which 7/11 you’re referring to since it’s the closest one around.

FUENTE PLAZA

Photo contributed by Wendell Waffer

The Fuente Plazas is typically centrally located and easily accessible, making it convenient for people coming from different directions. With plenty of open space, the plaza allows you easy movement and offers various areas to sit and chat, whether on benches, grassy patches, or near the fountain. You need fresh air to breathe, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than surrounded by trees and greenery.

Photo by Rosever Banaay

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Fuente Osmena Circle, Don Mariano Cui St, Cebu City.

  • By Commute: You can ride any jeep that goes to Fuente Osmena Circle ( 03B, 04B, 04D, 04H, 06B, 06C, 06D, 06F, 06H, 07B, 07D, 07E,  12L, 14D,17B, 17D).
  • By Car: Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Larsian Sa Fuente.”

MAGELLAN’S CROSS

Photo by April Belga

Who knows? Your meet-up partner could be very religious. A religious monument like this could make a perfect meet-up spot due to their cultural significance. This iconic landmark is easy to locate, providing a recognizable gathering point for friends or family.

Photo by @mfg1691 via Instagram

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: P. Burgos St., Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines

  • By Walking: From the 1730 Jesuit House, head down the same street towards the Colon Obelisk. Continue walking straight until you reach P. Burgos Street. As you walk, you’ll pass the University of Southern Philippines Foundation. Keep going until you arrive at the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño. You can either enter the church to pass through and exit towards the Magellan’s Cross or simply go around the church, as the Cross is located just behind and outside the building.

These are the answers you Sugboanons suggested. Are you ready to meet your dates? Pick one place suggested above and go. Don’t let your future “forever” keep on waiting!