If you want enemies to lovers, a trope yet a forbidden love that conquers all kinds of things, you’ll like Red, White, and Royal Blue.
The story follows Alez, the son of the US president and Prince Henry of the United Kingdom. The two are forced to be “friends” after crashing the Prince’s older brother’s wedding. But, as the pair grow closer, their love for each other blossoms, which pushes them into a whirlwind of a secret romance.
Photo from IMDb
Past Lives
Past Lives revolves around the story of a woman who tries to remember and reconnect with her crush back when she was a kid. Although the movie dwells more on romance than comedy, it’s still a good watch.
Photo from IMDb
Anyone But You
We can’t get enough of the beautiful Sydney Sweeney. The Euphoria actress stars in this romance-comedy called Anyone but You. The story is about Bea and Ben, who went on a first date yet didn’t quite have a blossoming romance. However, fate decided to play with them when they meet at a wedding in Australia and play “girlfriend and boyfriend.”
Photo from IMDb
Ghosted
It’s great to see Captain America back on screen again, this time in a romantic comedy. Chris Evans plays Cole, who falls in love with a woman named Samie, played by Ana de Armas. Unbeknownst to him, Sadie is a secret agent. In this tale of love, Cole finds himself saving the world with his crush.
Photo from IMDb
Elemental
This is an adorable story of yet another forbidden love that knows no bounds. Elemental follows the story of Amber, a woman of fire, who befriends a water guy. Despite being of different elements, they actually have a lot of things in common.
Photo from IMDb
Third World Romance
Pinoy romcoms, anyone? Third World Romance is a glimpse of reality. Charlie Dizon plays an outspoken cashier who falls in love with a chill grocery bagger. The couple navigates relationships in a world where everything comes at a cost.
What a lot of people don’t realize is that being single is amazing. With the premium given to relationships (and marriage as an extension), it’s not their fault that they may see singlehood as a sad fact, or one that constitutes “being left behind”. Recently, more people are embracing it, giving it a laugh, and practically echoing the 2015 “forever alone” rhetoric. While it’s fun to witness, it’s still sad to see that people defaultly deem singlehood as a phase, like a tragedy people would say “You’ll get over it soon” about.
Photo from Unsplash
Personally, I would say the happiest years of my life were when I only had myself to worry about. Of course it’s not a blanket policy, and I do see the value in relationships. But we all just have to understand that we shouldn’t hinge our happiness upon being with someone. You are perfectly fine being alone.
Now, a recent study has shown that long-term singles share common values such as creativity, independence, and freedom. The research uncovered that individuals who aren’t in a relationship prioritize things that might be overlooked because of society’s emphasis on romance and the necessity to make it your #1. Not being constantly boggled by the traditional notions of romance, single people, as per the study, have their minds on personal goals, family and platonic relationships, and mental and physical health.
Photo from Unsplash
Currently, 40% of adults in the U.S. are single, actively choosing the life of riding solo. This is a significant increase compared to previous years. Bella DePaulo, a 69 year old residing in Santa Barbara California, has spent her entire life unpartnered and mentioned that embracing one’s individuality brings an unparalleled fulfillment and psychological richness. Even today, singlehood is still stigmatized, but the study behind embracing what should be a moment of self-discovery and seeing the world in a way that no one is directly in your periphery helps people realize how much of a blessing being alone is.
Photo from Unsplash
Making your lover your everything is never a good way to go. What this dive into singlehood shows is the importance of tapping onto the different realms of life that involve love, just not a romantic one. The research further showed how singles have stronger social ties and involvement with their communities, and this is the very thing relationships are likely to blindspot people. Depending on a partner for everything cannot satisfy your needs and will most likely burden them while making yourself unable to stand without their presence. Building communities is something that is often overlooked because of how romantic love lies to us and makes us feel that it is all that we need.
This is in no way a cautionary tale that tells you to break up with your lover if you have one. It is very possible to be in a healthy relationship where both individuals have their own life and respective support systems outside of each other. What both the study and this article is telling you is that if you’re taken, you can learn a thing or two from single people who truly embrace a life that is not in conjunction with another person. A relationship is not a leash. And if you’re single, you don’t have to keep waiting. Enjoy yourself. Life is so big.
Photo from Unsplash
If you stop your fixation on looking for it, it’s more likely going to come to you at some point. And if it doesn’t, cite the great philosopher Ariana Grande and say “yes, and?”
In a shocking announcement. King Charles III is revealed to have cancer.
Photo from Middle East Eye
The king has been experiencing health issues since last month. Buckingham Palace announced that he would go to the hospital for a “corrective procedure. ”
On January 29, the king was discharged from the London Clinic and was reported to be better. However, he was also getting treatment for something else. The palace announced on Monday that the tests showed that the king had a “form of cancer.”
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
Moreover, no further details have been released as to what type of cancer it is. In addition, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that King Charles’ cancer was caught at an earlier time, and he will continue getting treatment until he makes a full recovery.
Photo from PBS
With this recent diagnosis, the King will be stepping down from his public duties to focus on recovery.
The Philippines reached a significant development with its record low unemployment rate of 3.1% as of December 2023, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reports. The positive trend reflected by the number is highly indicative of the labor market’s inherent resistance against economic fluctuations and is a sign of the country’s dedication to improvement.
Photo from Nikkei Asia
Arsenio Balisacan, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary, details other initiatives and interventions such as the Lifelong Learning Bill, Apprenticeship Bill, and the Enterprise Productivity Act, and expresses his support for the ongoing upward trend of the country’s labor market. Balicasan puts his trust in the government’s pursuit of legislations that will provide better foundations for economic development and prosperity and has confidence in the economic sector’s ever-increasing momentum.
Photo from @ambalisacan on X
Additionally, the youth underemployment rate rose from 11.6% to 9.2% in around the same time frame from the previous year.
Photo from Jobstreet
The record-low unemployment rate in December 2023 is the result of the government’s continuous intervention that is targeted at the root of the economic system, as well as the commitment to bettering the country’s flawed labor market. Crucial decisions in the form of policies, consistent regulations amongst labor institutions, and constant self-checking will determine whether the Philippines will be able to keep its growing momentum afloat.
As doors close, another door opens. It so happens that the one that closed was Bea Alonzo and Dominic Roque’s relationship.
Photo from Inquirer Entertainment
Bea and Dominic’s breakup was announced by the King of Talk, Boy Abunda, himself, in his “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” on Tuesday.
Photo from Dailymotion
Although he added that there is a high possibility that the couples are still trying to talk, reliable sources have confirmed that the two have broken up.
“As we talk today, yes, hiwalay po si Dominic at tsaka si Bea,” Tito boy said.
Photo from Rappler
It can be remembered that the couple, now broken up, got engaged in Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar Bataan on July 18, 2023. According to Tito Boy, Bea has returned the engagement ring to Dominic.
During the announcement, Tito Boy also addressed some rumors circulating about Dominic and Bea. One of the rumors is a speculated prenuptial agreement.
“Yung prenup po ay medyo na-shock po ako because ang pagkakaalam ko po, many months ago, napag-usapan ho ito sa aking pagkakaalam,” he said
Photo from Inquirer Entertainment
Tito Boy also clarified that the two did not have any fixed agreement on their wedding plans yet to debunk the rumors that it was going to be held in Tagaytay in April.
“As originally talked about, nag-ocular po ang dalawa, tama ho ‘yun, sa Europa. And may mga lumalabas na kuwento rin na they went to Japan, tama rin po ‘yun and I think they were trying to talk things out,” he said.
Tito Boy also called out people who baselessly judged or accused either Bea or Dominic of the break-up.
Photo from PEP.ph
“To me, napaka-judgmental po nun. Yes, you and I have the right to comment. Yes, we have the freedom of speech pero ako, I appeal for kindness,” Tito boy addressed to those who judge Bea or Dominic.
Although Apple just dropped their iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro last November 2023. iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro are looked forward to this year as well. However, rumors have been circulating about Apple’s first foldable Phone, the iPhone Flip.
Photo from T3
How come?
Other phone brands have already created their flip phones. Samsung for one, has already launched their Galaxy Foldables which is one of the hits in the market with their latest Galaxy Z Flip 5.
Photo from CNET
IPHONE FLIP RELEASE DATE
Rumors about Apple’s first foldable phone have been circulating online for years—whether this is true or not remains a question. Despite the uncertainty of the iPhone Flip, what we know is that it is in the works, and well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo (via 9to5Mac) predicted that it will be launched around the year 2026 or 2027.
Tweet from @mingchikuo on X
IPHONE FLIP SIZE
Ming-Chi Kuo further predicted that the iPhone Flip will have an internal screen size is around 7 or 8 inches. If indeed the iPhone Flip is to have 8 8-inch internal screen size, this will make it larger than the Galaxy Z Fold 4 which has a 7.6-inch display.
Photo from Forbes
IPHONE FLIP LOOK
Rumor has it that Apple is testing two looks for the iPhone flip. The first one has the same look as the Samsung Galaxy Z fold series.
Photo from Cashkar
Meanwhile, the second look Apple is checking for their iPhone flip is the same as the newly released Google Pixel Fold.
Photo from Tech Advisor
The rumors about Apple’s very own iPhone flip spreads like wildfire, it is still important to note that these are mere rumors that should be taken with a grain of salt.
In the Philippines, healthcare is expensive; as they say, “mahal magkasakit.” This makes us realize that health should be a priority, especially for employees who work for a living.
If you are unsure or worried about not receiving a salary when you’re sick and absent from work, this is your guide to knowing your rights as an employee.
PHILIPPINE LAW FOR SICK LEAVE
The Philippine Labor Code does not explicitly specify anything about sick leave benefits, what it states is merely the five days of service incentive leaves (SIL) for every year of work, which can then be used for sick purposes.
Photo from CNBC
This means that the government does not implement sick leaves. It became the initiative of the companies to offer sick leaves as part of the employment contract or company policy. And because it is between the private company and the employee, the number of sick leaves and whether paid or not varies. Commonly, regular employees have 12 to 15 paid sick leaves.
Geneliza Aguilar, a Senior Human Resources (HR) Specialist clarified in an interview with Spot.ph that sick leaves are not mandated by law. It is only a discretionary benefit taken up by companies. Hence, the terms and conditions are provided variously by different companies.
“Sick leave is often considered a discretionary benefit, and it is not a mandatory requirement imposed by the government in many places. Employers may choose to provide sick leave as part of their benefits package, but the specific terms and conditions can vary widely between companies,” Aguilar said.
HOW TO USE YOUR SICK LEAVES
One thing about getting sick is that they just come right to your doorstep unannounced and this makes filing planned sick leave hard to do. However, this does not mean that filing a sick leave is complicated.
According to Aguilar, in filing a sick leave, employees must inform their employer sooner rather than later; the ideal time to do this is before the shift begins.
Photo from Caribbean Jobs
Because sick leave terms and conditions vary between companies, requirements to validate an application for sick leave also vary widely; some require medical certificates, especially for sick leaves that go beyond three consecutive days. Preparing a medical certificate also serves as evidence and increases the chance the application gets approved.
“This helps us validate the genuine need for extended leave and assists in maintaining a fair and consistent approach to leave management. Our primary concern is the well-being of our employees, and we strive to balance it with the operational needs of the organization,” Aguilar said.
WHAT IF I RAN OUT OF SICK LEAVES
Reverting to the Philippine Labor Code that vaguely states the leaves Filipino workers could enjoy, this now leaves us with another question. What do I do when I run out of sick leaves for the year?
Worry not because the Social Security System (SSS) has your back! When you have already exhausted all your paid sick leaves and service incentive leaves, you can apply for SSS Sickness Benefit where you can temporarily claim 90% of your regular salary.
Photo from Palawan News
The program, SSS Sickness Benefit by SSS pays for all the days you won’t be able to work—this includes weekends and holidays. However, it is important to note that it only covers your 120 days in one year.
To qualify for the SSS Sickness Benefit, you must be an SSS member and have paid at least three months of contributions within 12 months prior to having the sickness. It is also necessary that all paid leaves are already exhausted and still won’t be able to work for at least 4 days.
To apply, just inform your employer that you wish to apply for the SSS Sickness Benefit because they will be the ones to forward your application to the SSS.
Photo from Efren Nolasco
Once approved, the salary from the said program will then be forwarded to the employer, which will be given to you.
No matter how we try to take care of our bodies, circumstances sometimes get us taken aback for having sickness. And it is important that we know the benefits that we are entitled to, especially when we get sick. This allows us to know exactly what measures we should take.
The United Arab Emirates has always been one of the top locations people want to pursue their careers in primarily because of the promising amount of salary working abroad gives. If being an assistant teacher is one of your passions, then this is the perfect opportunity that you can take.
Photo from State Department United Arab EmiratesPhoto from Truro College
In this job, you have the responsibility to provide crucial support in the classroom. While these responsibilities can vary depending on the education level you will be teaching and the policies in the institution, typical duties include making lesson plans, preparing materials for discussion, grading tests and assignments, monitoring student progress, and assisting students.
Photo from Truro College
The following are the qualifications for the job:
Preferably with a special education degree (SPED)
Bachelor’s Degree Graduate (Any field)
Minimum of 1 year teaching experience (A huge plus if it’s with students aged 0-10 years old)
Certificate of Employment from the employer (indicating 1 year of experience)
Letter of Experience with the employer’s stamp
Apostilled and attested School Credentials by DFA and UAE Embassy
How to Apply
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Certificate of Employment
Letter of Experience
Apostilled School Credentials
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Location
If you plan on applying onsite, the locations available are Cavite, Dubai, Bacolod, Cebu, or General Santos City. Afterwards, you are to submit your application to an email depending which respective office you have applied to.
Exact Location: Nine Key Management Consultancies, G-01, Mabrooka Bldg, Port Saeed Road, Muraqabbat, Deira Near Bakhit Centre, P.O.Box: 444175, Dubai, U.A.E.
Attach your resume to the email either in PDF or Word format. The cover letter is optional, but is certainly one that can improve your chances in your application. Here, you can explain why you’re interested in the job and why you’re the perfect fit for the position. Afterwards, you can send the email.
Elon Musk introduced the AI chatbot for X developed by xAI to offer a unique approach to users for their inquiries. Now, the cutting-edge AI chatbot is available to X Premium+ subscribers in the Philippines. Meet Grok.
Photo from EU Reporter
Grok is a fascinating take on applications or websites answering users’ questions. With its distinctive hint of sarcasm and human-like tone, it certainly is one that is interesting to witness.
Photo from Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto
Musk revealed Grok’s capabilities through a screenshot wherein it was asked how to make cocaine. The AI chatbot showcased its flexibility in handling queries by responding with both vagueness and sarcasm.
Furthermore, this revelation highlighted the chatbot’s real-time access to information regarding users’ tweets. This is what Musk referred to as Grok’s edge compared to other AI models such as ChatGPT.
You can now get the chance to talk to Grok for ₱1,190.
34-year-old Kris Tiffany Janson won the Miss Universe Philippines Cebu pageant and will compete on the national stage. The pageant was held last Saturday, February 3, at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Official Facebook Page
Janson also won the best evening gown. She also dominated the question and answer portion when she was asked to create a socially relevant headline in Cebu.
“If I were to create a headline, it would be ‘Cebu: Empowering Stronger Women’ because Cebu is known to be a very open city, and what I love about Cebu is that we are very welcoming and we empower our women. We build communities for stronger women, and that is the future universe that we can share with everyone,” said Janson.
Here is the complete list of winners for Miss Universe Philippines Cebu 2024.
Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Tourism 2024
Juvel Ducay of Bantayan Island
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Official Facebook Page
Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Heritage 2024
Mary Josephine Paaske of Talisay City
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Official Facebook Page
Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Charity 2024
Nica Zosa Nabua of Minglanilla
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Official Facebook Page
The Miss Philippines Cebu 2024
Natasha Testa of Lapu-Lapu City
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Official Facebook Page
First runner-up
Mipsen Galves of Carcar City
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Official Facebook Page
Second Runner-up
Thelma Suzanne Dayao of San Fernando
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Official Facebook Page
Congratulations to the newly crowned queens. Cebu is known to be the home of beauty queens who are not only beautiful but queens with wit and advocacies that can change the universe.
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Cebu Official Facebook Page
