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The Devil Wears Prada Reunion at the 2024 SAG Awards

Those for pop culture really got their pens and papers out to commemorate an event that is one of the history books. Yes, Andrea Sachs, Emily Charlton, and EIC-excellency herself, Miranda Priestly reunited at the 2024 SAG Awards, almost two decades after the release of one of the most culturally-defining films of all time, The Devil Wears Prada.

Photo from Harper’s BAZAAR

The iconic trio graced the 2024 SAG Awards stage together for a brief yet iconic moment to present the award for Male Actor in a Comedy Series. Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt gagged everyone in the room with their reunion, humorously referencing the film in a sketch.

Hathaway and Blunt interacted with Streep with the same amount of delicacy, awkwardness, and fear as their characters did, with the two handing Streep the card and her glasses. Streep paused for a while, with Blunt responding with, “By all means, move at a glacial pace. You know that thrills me,” echoing a classic line from the film. 18 years after the film, the on-stage rendezvous truly sparked memories of what it was like to be in the film. The relationship formed between the women was evident, calling back to their chemistry which was what made the film a cinematic gem.

Photo from Vanity Fair

The heartwarming reunion follows their December 2023 get-together for Variety’s “Actors on Actors” series, where Blunt and Hathaway reminisced the profound impact the movie had on their lives. With both expressing their enthusiasm for a potential sequel, fans are left eagerly anticipating the possibility of another chapter in the beloved story that brought these talented stars together.

Photo from Cosmopolitan

PhilSA and BAFE Harness Satellite Technology for Growth: Revolutionizing Agriculture

Agriculture has always been the strongest forefront of the Philippine economy since time immemorial. This way of living is now entirely shifted in a groundbreaking move by the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) and the Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE), together starting an era in Nueva Ecija that makes use of satellite data.

Photo from CCAFS – CGIAR

In the province of Nueva Ecija, the agreement between the two agencies focuses on space technology in order to apply it to agricultural commodities and farm-to-market roads. This application will modernize the collection, analysis, and dissemination processes of the agricultural sector. The collaboration is also known as the Farm-to-Market Road and Agricultural Commodity Geodatabase and Remote Sensing Application Phase 1 (DigitalAgri Phase 1).

Even when our entire economy and normal lives lie on the backbone of the agricultural sector, it cannot be denied how the sector is struggling as well. Now, the innovative approach will revolutionize the landscape in ways beyond our imagination through improving market access, increasing productivity, as well as fortifying the strength of our agricultural systems. This is much needed for the farmers who work on the ground, making their jobs easier and more streamlined.

Photo from Philippine Space Agency

This process utilizes Earth observation satellites, providing crucial insights to guide farmers in assessing crop stage and health, estimating and predicting yields, detecting pests and diseases, and making use of land mapping. Farm-to-Market Road will now be monitored through encompassing road types, remote sensing, accessibility mapping, and infrastructure mapping.

Photo from Philippine Space Agency

Beyond data exchange, this collaboration is highly useful in making the sector more globally competent with more scientific support. Joint research, development, and operationalization activities will all be integrated in this initiative. This is poised to enhance oversight during emergencies through real-time monitoring and response capabilities, guaranteeing very effective data collection especially during disasters and calamities.

Photo from DPWH

PhilSA and BAFE pioneer such a significant change that is necessary in progressing the country’s agricultural sector, and Nueva Ecija is yet to witness the benefits of cutting-edge technology that will elevate the landscape to unprecedented heights. This will mark a significant milestone in the industry, and with its promising nature, other provinces in the Philippines might follow suit.

Durano Eco Farm and Spring Resort: A Relaxing Temptation in Carmen

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Sometimes, taking a break means taking a break from the beach too. If you agree, you might be looking for something new! 

Durano Eco Farm and Spring Resort’s cold spring await you! 

Photo from Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort Official Facebook Page

Cebu is not only known for its white sand beaches, falls, nightlife, and history, because nestled in the peaceful land of Carmen is one commonly uncommon cold spring with multi-level pools of eight.

Photo from Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort Official Facebook Page

The water is not the only thing that cools your body and mind off, because as you take a dip in the spring, your head becomes clearer because of the trees that surround the place to give you shade and a cool breeze. 

Photo from Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort Official Facebook Page

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Entrance fee:

P100 per adult

P50 per kid (9 y/o & below)  

Table: P300 per day 

Includes 4 chairs and a large umbrella

Day Cottage: P1,000 to P1,500 

Corkage: None

OTHER INFORMATION

Contact number: 0917-506-8335

Email address: [email protected]

Social: Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort 

HOW TO GET THERE

Exact location: Bgy. Corte, Carmen, Northern Cebu 

BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride any bus bound for Carmen or Sogod. Inform the driver to drop you off at Carmen Public Market. From there, ride a habal-habal and tell the driver to bring you to Durano Eco Farm.

BY JEEP / MINIBUS: You can also ride a jeepney or mini-bus going to Carmen, from Sun Gold near the crossing in SM City Cebu. Inform the driver to drop you off at Carmen Public Market. From there, ride a habal-habal and tell the driver to bring you to Durano Eco Farm.

BY CAR: For convenience, bring your own vehicle and navigate via Waze. Just search for “Durano Ecofarm and Spring Resort”. The resort is located 15-20 minutes from the main road. 

Bamboo House Resort: A Serene Resort Experience in Moalboal

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Who could say no to Moalboal’s long shoreline, crystal clear waters, and fine white sand? 

I know a one-day Moalboal vacation is unsatisfying, so don’t worry because we have the best place where you can stay for 2 days or more! 

Photo from Bamboo House Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Bamboo House Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Bamboo House Resort Official Facebook Page

Bamboo House Resort is a 15-minute walk from Basdaku Beach. It does not only provide shelter at an affordable price, but it also embodies what our slow days should be like.

In this resort, you can truly feel that you are on a vacation because the rooms are made of bamboo resembling nipa hits. Some even have their extension porch where guests can sit and relax. 

Photo from Bamboo House Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Bamboo House Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Bamboo House Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Bamboo House Resort Official Facebook Page

The common tables in the open area are also made of bamboo where you can hang out with your friends and family! Eating food is allowed at these common tables in the open area.

What makes it comfier is that their common space has trees that protect guests from the scorching heat and provide fresh air at the same time that sets your brain to comfort. At night, the shade provider becomes a tree right out of a fairytale because it is illuminated with beautiful lights. 

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Fan Rooms 

  • 700php for 2 pax
  • 800 for 2 pax
  • 900 for 2 pax
  • 1000 for 3 pax
  • 1,400php for 4pax
  • 1,600 for 4 pax
  • 2,900 for 8 pax 

Note: Extra is P300 per head

Aircon Rooms

  • P1,150 for 2 pax 
  • P1,600 for 4 pax 

Note: Extra is P350 per head. 

OTHER INFORMATION

Corkage fee: P20 per head

Contact numbers: 0943 097 5404

Email address: [email protected]

Facebook Page: Bamboo House Resort

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Saavedra, Moalboal, Cebu 

BY BUS: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, ride a bus for Moalboal via Barili/Badian. Ask the driver to drop you off at Gaisano Grand Mall where you can ride tricycle (for groups) or mortorcyle (solo) going to Bamboo House Resort.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Moalboal Bamboo House Saavedra Basdaku” in Moalboal. Parking space is available.

Filipino Gordon Cormier As Aang In Avatar: The Last Airbender

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Together, let’s witness Avatar Aang trying to master the four elements and restore peace. 

The classic animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender revisits our childhood memories because its live-action is finally released on Netflix! 

Photo from Netflix Media Center

But hold up, before you watch the film, did you know that Gordon Cormier who took the role of Avatar Aang is a Filipino-Canadian? 

ALL ABOUT GORDON CORMIER 

Gordon Kyle Diez Cormier, who starred in the film as Avatar Aang was only 11 during the film’s shoot. However, he started his career in the field as early as nine years old when he auditioned for commercials. 

Photo fro, IMDb

His debut role was in the 2017 American comedy-drama series “Get Shorty”. He also had appearances in the 2018 sci-fi series Lost in Space and the fantasy miniseries “The Stand.”

Although he was born and raised in Vancouver, Canada, the young boy never forgot the Philippines—which he considers his homeland, despite only visiting the country thrice. Gordon is half-Filipino because his mother is a Filipina. 

PREPARATION OF CORMIER FOR THE ROLE

During his interview, Cormier admits he has watched the series 35 times in preparation for his shoot.

Photo from Superfest Film Festival

As for Avatar Aang’s character, Cormier can easily tap into his happy and childlike personality with no sweat. His enthusiasm did not only radiate during his interview, but even Cormier himself could say that they both share similar characteristics. However, Cormier did admit that he struggled in pulling off the emotional parts of the film.

Photo from Deseret News

Not only did Cormier prepare for the live-action, but the other members of the cast as well. Together, they underwent boot camp training for six weeks for martial arts and bending.

Avatar: The Last Airbender is about Avatar Aang, the last Air Nomad, and the next Avatar. With the help of his friends Katara and Sokka, they try to restore balance and harmony among the world’s four nations. The series has eight episodes on Netflix. 

The Park Social Closes For CBRT Project

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Sometimes, as much as we want to stay, some things force us to leave. 

In a social media post, the Park Social announced its IT Park closure after 6 years full of memories.

“It’s not a goodbye but a see you real soon! We’re saying goodbye to The Park Social as we embark on a new location real soon.”

Photo from The Park Social Official Facebook Page

NON-RENEWAL REASON FOR CLOSURE

The iconic resto bar closed on February 20, 2024, after it was not allowed by IT Park management to renew its lease. 

“We are willing to stay,” Philip Yieh, director of the Park Social said in an interview. He also mentioned that they have been in coordination with the IT Park management for more than a year but all they received were excuses from them.

Photo from The Park Social Official Facebook Page
Photo from The Park Social Official Facebook Page

Atty. Jun Montecillo, The Park Social’s corporate lawyer mentioned that among all the reasons and excuses given by the management is that their lot is one of the routes for the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit Project. 

70 WORKERS AFFECTED 

After The Park Social’s closure, this leaves us the question, what will happen to the 70 workers?

The management of The Park Social explained that half of the employees would be transferred to The Park Social Ayala Center Cebu branch. Meanwhile, the others will undergo short-term training from their international partners. However, the remaining employees will be dismissed.

NEW LOCATION

Fortunately, it is not a permanent farewell for The Park Social. They are only going to transfer locations. 

They believe that they have loyal customers and they hope for their continued support as they plan to open their new location this July. 

The Last Airbender Live-Action: Everything You Need to Know

The world was shaken since the first time they saw the official trailer of The Last Airbender live action. Expectations were high because of the highly improved visuals, as well as the casting (albeit the ATLA community is still at a divide regarding whether it’s a hit or miss.) Now, we finally get to see The Last Airbender live action in its element.

Photo from Rolling Stone

It has been almost two decades since its animated debut, Avatar: The Last Airbender. However, if you didn’t know, this isn’t the first time a live action version of the popular series is made. In 2010, an ill-fated version was released, directed by M. Night Shyamalan and produced by Paramount Pictures. This was negatively received by viewers, hence, the 2024 version definitely has bigger shoes to fill to satisfy a then-dissatisfied audience.

One main difference the 2024 version has compared to 2010 is that the remake has a culturally appropriate cast, promising a faithful recreation of the source material. From the impressive costuming, CGI that aligns with the narrative, to the detailed cast builds, the remake is very much anticipated by fans to see if it could live up to their expectations.

Photo from Vox

This February 22, 2024, Netflix finally released the live-action adaptation. One thing undeniable is the visually stunning cinematic experience it offers.

Creative Differences and Unknown Deviations

Prior to its release, deviations were already made known to fans such as the omission of the misguided character of Sokka. Fans expressed their disagreement against this decision, as this characteristic is necessary to show Sokka’s character growth, and how the journey and the entire gang slowly changed him. Complaints were raised, saying how detrimental it is for modern adaptations to change characters who will be perceived today as problematic, when in fact, these things are necessary for storytelling. Media isn’t only supposed to immediately show what’s right and only what’s right, but it should also teach audiences to be critical about the actions of characters. A similar discourse occurred when The Little Mermaid (2023) removed the “body language” line in Ursula’s villain solo, “Poor Unfortunate Souls”.

Photo from Deadline

The original creators of Avatar: The Last Airbender, Michael DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko also left the project in 2020 due to their objection to some of the decisions made for the remake. In spite of this, Netflix continued to bring Avatar to life with the creative team they have.

Photo from Syfy

As of now, the Rotten Tomatoes score for the first season stands at 59%, with an audience approval of 75%. Audience reception is still at a divide, with some saying that the changes are a disservice to the spirit of the original series, and the other half being grateful to get to experience watching the beloved show in a different format. At the end of the day, it’s still important to watch the show first in order to craft an objective opinion. Regardless of the mixed reviews, it’s still definitely worth the watch before we open our mouths.

₱8.1 Million Worth of Fossilized Giant Clam Shells Recovered in Palawan

As a tropical country blessed with countless natural resources, it is imperative for us to prioritize marine life conservation not only for reasons such as a boost in tourism hence the economy, but for preserving our environment in and of itself, even if it’s just the remains of what once was.

On February 14, The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced that local authorities recovered 336 pieces of fossilized giant mollusks in Barangay Sebaring, Balabac, Palawan. This is a significant milestone in conserving the remains of a past geological age. The giant clam shells have an estimated worth of ₱8.1 million.

The findings are locally known as ‘taklobo’ or ‘manlet’. They were previously discreetly hidden under the sands of Palawan, and were immediately turned over to the barangay officials for temporary custody.

The retrieval operation is in line with the mandate of Republic Act No. 10654, also known as the Philippine Fisheries Code. Since conservation is the priority of this cause, harvesting, selling, and buying them are prohibited by law. Previously, the PCG also retrieved ₱18 million worth of fossilized giant clam shells in Dumaran, Palawan two years ago in 2022, and 80 tons of giant clams in Roxas, Palawan in the year prior.

Coastal View Resort: A Tropical Retreat in Sogod

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Another place that you need to add to your bucket list! 

Wake up to clear blue skies, ocean breeze, and the heat of the sun at Coastal View Resort at the heart of Sogod!

Photo from Coastal View Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Coastal View Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Coastal View Resort Official Facebook Page

Located in Northern Cebu, this resort will make sure that you will fall in love with life and nature again with its panoramic view of the ocean. 

Witnessing how the sun rises is also one of the most majestic if not romantic solemn activities you could do here at Coastal View Resort. If you want to ground yourself more with nature at night, stargazing or moongazing is also another activity that you can do.

Photo from Coastal View Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Coastal View Resort Official Facebook Page
Photo from Coastal View Resort Official Facebook Page

With just P100, you can already revel in the beauty of nature at Coastal View Resort.

They also offer cottages for family or friend gatherings. 

Cottage Rate:  

  • Umbrella Stall – P350 (6 px)
  • Kubo – P500 (10 Pax)
  • Gazebo 1 – P1,000 (15 pax)
  • Gazebo 2 – P1500 (20pax)
  • Table – P50 each
  • Chairs – P10 each
  • Videoke – P150/hr, free for exclusive
  • Exclusive – P7000  (30pax)

They also offer accommodation for overnight stays

Room Rates:

  • Room 1 – P2000 (2 pax)
    • 1 Bed 
  • Room 2 – P3500 (4 pax)
    • 2 Queen size bed

The resort also accommodates those who wish to use the resort as a function hall for parties of any sort.

RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION

DAY USE: 

Entrance Fee: P100 (3 years olds below are free)

Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

OTHER INFORMATION

Corkage Fee:  Drinks corkage P20 per bottle, P150 per case. No food corkage.

Contact Number: 0949 368 2499

Email Address: [email protected]

Facebook Page: Coastal View Resort

HOW TO GET THERE:

Exact location: Poblacion Sogod, Cebu

BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal. Look for the one heading to Sogod, and ask the driver to drop you off at Coastal View Resort in Sogod.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Coastal View Resort” in Sogod. Parking space is available.

Balud Cafe: A Tropical Sanctuary Cafe in Toledo

Sometimes, a cup of coffee is what we all need to keep our heads above water.

Balud Cafe gives this and more!

Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page
Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page
Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page

Nestled in the tranquil soil of Toledo, this tropical cafe offers a sanctuary not far from the heart of the City. To be wrapped around the lulling arms of the four corners of Balud Cafe ensures you can savor a slow day after a fast-paced week. 

The cafe’s earthy tones of brown, green, and white ground you with nature and reset your brain into rest mode. What makes this cafe more relaxing is that they are located by the beach and the overlooking view of Mt. Canlaon volcano, which makes it the best place to visit for sunrise and sunset viewing!

Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page
Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page
Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page

For as low as P120, you can already choose from their wide coffee and non-coffee options! From Americano to premium teas.

Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page

When I say more, they give more! Because they have a wide selection you can choose from. Coffee is not the only product they offer, they also offer breakfast and rice bowls for those who are hungry. 

Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page

For those who still cannot leave their responsibilities in the city, the cafe has a free for you! Mobile data also works around the area. 

Balud Cafe is also pet-friendly for those who want to bring their furbabies with them.

Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page
Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page
Photo from Balud Cafe Official Facebook Page

Parking space is also available for customers who’ll visit the cafe via private car.

RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION

DAY USE: 

Entrance Fee: NA

Operating Hours:

Monday to Friday – 11AM – 9PM

Saturday &Sunday – 8AM – 9PM

OTHER INFORMATION

Corkage Fee: NA

Contact Number: NA

Email Address: [email protected]

Facebook Page: Balud Cafe

Instagram Page: @balud.cafe

HOW TO GET THERE:

Exact location: Bato, Toledo

BY COMMUTE: Ride any tricycle/Habal2x from Toledo City going to barangay Bato, national high school. From there you can walk or ride sikad 5-10 mins to “Balud Cafe”. The Cafe is inside Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa!

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Sam Xander’s stone beach villa” in Toledo. The Cafe is in the exact same location.