The International Monetary Fund (IMF), an international organization with the goal of global financial cooperation and international trade, anticipates the Philippines reaching a GDP growth rate of 6.4% by the year 2028. By the end of the year 2023, a growth rate of 5.3% is already projected.
Photo from Unsplash
Other than the IMF, the World Bank also anticipates the Philippines to be one of the fastest growing economies in Southeast Asia this year, just behind Cambodia. After the World Bank adjusted its GDP growth projection by virtue of global economic changes like inflation, the Philippines has comparatively stepped down its expansion last year, however still outpacing its other Southeast Asian counterparts.
According to the report by both international organizations, the Philippines stands at the 19th position overall internationally, projecting a GDP growth rate of 5.9%, while Cambodia takes the 14th spot with a growth rate of 6.1%.
Manila, Philippines | Photo from Unsplash
Key contributors to the growth of the Philippine economy were reported to be because of wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, and construction sectors.
Despite recent improvements in the economic situation of the country, the IMF also projects larger problems for the country in the times to come including increased borrowing costs from the World Bank, exchange rate increases, and more inflation.
Manila, Philippines | Photo from Unsplash
However, there are present international policies that help mitigate such problems, such as the recent reform in the Public Service act which allows full foreign ownership in public services which will encourage more investments. The World Bank recommends the region for the liberalization of trade, and for giving solutions to problems regarding infrastructure and skill issues, resulting in employment in East Asia and the Pacific.
With its Celtic roots, Halloween started as a pagan celebration to welcome the harvest season called Samhain /SAH-win/. At the time, people would wear costumes and gather around bonfires in order to ward off ghosts and evil spirits that might disrupt a bountiful harvest. It was adopted by the church in the eighth century when Pope Gregory III declared the 1st of November as All Saints’ Day, the day after Halloween (previously All Hallows’ Eve).
Moving forward, different cultures have adopted Halloween as well, or even just its concept in essence which reflects their respective traditions. Countries that have heavy Western influences may celebrate through costume parties and trick-or-treating. Latin American countries, on the other hand, usually focus on traditions that honor the dead because of their Catholic or Christian beliefs. Let’s go around the globe and explore how some areas celebrate Halloween!
Día de los Muertos in Latin America
Photo from Unsplash
Albeit not being identical to the Halloween that majority would think about when they hear the word, it is still noteworthy to talk about Día de los Muertos as it falls under the same umbrella of the theme of the dead, the supernatural, and it also falls under the same dates. After the declaration of the church for November 1st to be All Saints’ Day, Saint Odilo of Cluny declared the 2nd to be All Souls’ Day in the 11th century to honor the dead. In Latin American countries, Spain, and Mexico, they hold a three-day celebration beginning on October 31st in the belief that souls return to their respective homes during Halloween, as seen in the Disney film Coco (2017).
Coco (2017) basically sums up what it looks like in Latin countries during the holiday. Altars are put up, candles and incense lit, and the deceased are honored with flowers, food offerings, photographs, and the like. Some families celebrate by drinking, and letting bands play music.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow in America
Photo from Unsplash
Early settlers in America brought the first semblance of Halloween, and because of the puritan origins of early America, parties were only introduced in modern times as they originally carved pumpkins and lit candles to ward off evil spirits, similar to the Celtic tradition.
The Halloween tradition of trick-or-treating came in the mid-1800s when Irish immigrants brought their practice of dressing up and asking neighbors for food and money. This practice included pranks, which is now referred to as “trick” if the household chooses not to give treats. Out of routine, it has been the default for people to prepare candies for trick-or-treaters.
Moving to 1820, we get to see the biggest transformation of the holiday since half a century ago. This is because of Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow which focused a lot on the horror aspect of Halloween, becoming the first set of American ghost stories in relation to the holiday. This was quickly picked up by pop culture, even having its own franchise with the Hollywood cult classic, “Halloween” with the notorious Michael Myers.
The infamy of Halloween and pop culture’s involvement with its loud echoes in status quo have led to Halloween becoming a festival of parties participated by teenagers and adults. Halloween parties are being held with people wearing costumes, holding raves and drinking booze.
Halloween in the Philippines
Photo from Unsplash
Having been colonized by both Spain and USA, Halloween in the Philippines is a love baby of two contrasting traditions of the aforementioned countries.
While the Philippines has a really rich culture and history of folklore regarding mythical creatures like the manananggal, kapre, tikbalang, and all of the story book characters you can think of, Halloween on the ground does not necessarily focus on these creatures in certain areas of the country, especially the more urbanized ones. This is with the exception of airing movies and shows on television, however, and decorations you see in the mall. Some people in the country even condemn the parading of these scary or mythical creatures since they think that such are demonic and disrespectful to the most practiced religion, Catholicism.
This is where the influence of Spain comes in. The most common practice in the Philippines during this season is definitely All Souls’ Day and All Saints’ Day. Being a very religious country, the Philippines spends Halloween through going to church, holding masses for the dead, and going to cemeteries to visit their deceased loved ones.
On the other hand, you can see the young lean more into the Western influences of Halloween. Bars and clubs during Halloween hold parties and Halloween costume competitions while everyone drinks to their hearts’ content.
Photo from Unsplash
Halloween has become a huge part of everyone’s cultures, wherever you may be in the world. Its importance to the public conscience is a reflection of people’s values regarding their loved ones, their connection to their culture, and the supernatural. However you may choose to celebrate it, remember that those whom you love will always be part of you, have fun, and have a happy Halloween.
You have seen the Little Mermaid, Dyesebel, and Aquamarine, yes? Have you noticed anything? The Mermen— always on the sidelines. Don’t you think it’s time to recognize the Mermen in stories and real life?
Here’s the truth— Wanting to be a Merman and being one does not make you less of a man. A person by the name of Ramonchito Cabanero is here to prove that. Ramonchito shows us that mermaiding is for everyone because the person behind Cebu’s Mermaiding Community is a MAN.
Ramonchito “Monching” Cabanero is a 31-year-old free diver and Merman. He is also the president of Bakhaw Adventure Team, a free diving and mermaiding group in Cebu. He had his certification in mermaiding at the Bali Mermaid School, where he trained for 12 days.
Where it All Started for Monching
Would you believe that the president of a free diving group did not know how to swim growing up and only learned through YouTube?
Well, you better believe it. Monching revealed that he did not know how to swim before learning how to do freediving. He said that YouTube played a huge part in his training. Moreover, Monching urged himself to learn to swim because he liked no-fins swimming, which required skills.
“As long as driven ka to learn, makaya ra jud”
, said Monching.
And just like that, learning how to swim opened doors for him, and he eventually became the president of Bakhaw Adventure Group.
King Triton in the form of a Cebuano
King Triton leads the Merpeople to greatness, and so does Monching, as he leads Cebu’s mermaiding community to greater heights. But how did he create the Bakhaw Adventure team?
Monching shared that before Bakhaw, he joined a freediving group in Argao. After two weeks, the group liked his performance, and they saw how he had the potential to become a leader. Their group expanded to which Monching was assigned as the City Chapter’s president.
Since people from the South established the freediving group, Monching wanted to focus on the city. Because of this, he decided to step down and develop his own group, which then became the Bakhaw Adventure Team.
Monching: Cebuano Merman
The first time Monching tried mermaiding, he did not like it.
According to him, despite being comfortable in the water, trying out the mermaid tail made it hard for him to stay there for more than a minute. However, things turned out differently after he suggested a mermaiding event for Cebu Ocean Park. He and his group trained for a few days, and once he performed mermaiding, he was instantly pulled to the art of it.
Destigmatizing Mermaiding as a Man
“There is always a space in mermaiding for every gender”
– Monching.
Monching shared how mermaids were always highlighted in the Merfolk community, and the mermen were always on the sidelines. But to this, he says, there is always a space for everyone. Monching emphasized that one can always do mermaiding; men can always be Mermen.
Behind the Mermaiding Community in Cebu is a Man
You would think that the mermaid community in Cebu is run by a girl, but on the contrary, a man leads it.
Monching expressed how happy he is because of it. He did not expect to lead a group of extraordinary people and to be the only man who leads a mermaiding group in the Philippines. He also feels flattered after Bakhaw was recognized as a mermaiding group in Cebu during his leadership.
Bakhaw Adventure Team Initiatives
With his presidency, Monching has also started initiatives with the rest of the Bakhaw Adventure Team.
Every year, they do the Heart Meal project, distributing hot meals to people, and everything is from their pockets.
Moreover, Monching and Bakhaw Adventure Team are looking to launch the “Adopt a Baby Diver program,” where they adopt scholars from the fishing community in Cebu and help them with their education until the scholars graduate high school.
Aside from that, the Bakhaw Adventure Team also plays a part in clean-up drives for marine conservation.
Bakhaw Adventure Team also has mermaiding classes. If you wish to join, you may contact them through their Facebook page, Bakhaw Adventure Team.
The Art of Mermaiding is about Making People Happy
When asked what his favorite thing about mermaiding is, Monching replied that it’s making people smile. Nothing beats the joy of healing a person’s inner child. When they see kids jump in excitement, moms running to capture a glimpse of the mermaids, and see the elderly smile, it brings them joy knowing that they are the reason for that.
Monching shared how they dreamt about being something when they grew up, and now that they have, they are passing that dream to other people.
“Even little boys, it inspires them to be someone when they grow up. Maka happy na ma happy sila. Fulfilling kaayo siya.”
– Monching
The Cebuano Merman even has a message for everyone who wants to become a mermaid,
“Start with a dream of becoming something. If you want to become a mermaid, you can always be one. Don’t let other people’s mindset get to you. It’s YOUR happiness.”
Let Monching be your inspiration to become something that you’ve always wanted to be. Regardless of your gender, age, and roots, you are always welcome to pursue what your heart desires.
SM Seaside City Cebu is gearing up for fun, immersive, and experiential holidays— the mall sports magical and sparkly designs to give mall-goers an enchanting Christmas experience. With festive lights and different Christmas attractions, SM Seaside is ready to provide you with the merriest Christmas ever.
SM Seaside City Cebu welcomes shoppers to its Moon & Dreams Christmas Park, where different bucket-list destinations are waiting for you. Here are the things you can expect:
1. Seaside Squirrel Squad Meet & Greet
Meet the coolest squad in town — The Seaside Squirrel Squad! You will get to meet these adorable squirrels every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2 PM, 4 PM, and 6 PM until December 31.
Share the holiday excitement with them and create even cuter memories.
2. Seaside Santa Squad Meet & Greet
Of course, holiday cheers are not complete without the Ho-ho-howsome Seaside Santa Squad. Give them a big hug every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2 PM, 4 PM, and 6 PM until December 31.
3. Christmas Storytime with Mrs. Claus
Yey! Mrs. Claus is here too! SM Seaside says, “Let your dreams take flight to the North Pole” with Mrs. Claus as she shares a magical Christmas story with everyone!
Catch Mrs. Claus every Sunday from 4 PM to 5 PM until December 31
4. Bears of Joy
Christmas is also about sharing and giving. Make someone smile this Christmas with Bears of Joy. Buy a pair of Bear of Joy; one is for you, and the other one will be donated to a child.
The bears will be available from November 2023 to January 7, 2023
5. Christmas Dream Park
Experience a dreamy Christmas with the Christmas Dream Park, where different imaginative destinations await.
Tunnel of Imagination
The “Tunnel of Imagination” is a place where your mind can “explore the depths of creativity and inspiration.” Your senses will awaken inside the tunnel as you are greeted with vibrant colors and magical melodies all around.
The Tunnel of Imagination is where dreams come to life, and the impossible becomes possible. Experience a journey of discovery and wonder inside the Tunnel of Imagination.
Starry Dreamscape
It’s not a Moon & Dreams Christmas Park without the Starry Dreamscape. The captivating installation pushes forth an enchanting experience that feeds your imagination and invites you to reach for the stars. Take a break from the bustling chaos of the outside world and revel in a place of peace and tranquility.
North Pole Express
No one is too old to believe in Santa Claus. The North Pole Express is a whimsical mailbox of enchantment where people can drop their wishes to Santa in the North Pole. Share your stories, wishes, and dreams with Mr. & Mrs. Claus and their little helpers this holiday season.
Santa may be right there waiting to bring your cherished wishes to the North Pole as it journeys to the night sky and passes through the twinkling stars and the radiant moon. As the spirit of Christmas draws closer, wishes and dreams may turn into reality for those who believe and keep an open heart.
Discover a world of holiday wonder at the Moon & Dreams Christmas Park of SM Seaside until January 7, 2024!
From gift shopping, dining deals to the grandest Christmas centerpiece, SM Seaside City Cebu
got everything you need to make this the happiest time in #AWorldOfExperienceAtSM. Take your festive spirit to new heights and delight in dreamy yuletide adventures.
Exact Location: SM Seaside City Cebu in South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City.
BY MYBUS: You can take a FREE MyBus ride from/to BDO Fuente Osmena from 8:20am to 10:00pm. You can also ride any MyBus from SM City Cebu, Talisay, Mandaue City, Parkmall, and any Cibus to get to and from SM Seaside City Cebu Drop-off point is at the City Wing Entrance.
BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “SM Seaside City Cebu.” Parking space is free.
For a budget-conscious person and an adrenaline junkie at the same time, it can be a bit tough to find the extreme and satisfying adventure in Cebu that fits our budget. But not too many people know about this interesting attraction in Medellin, a 3-4 hour drive going north and another 15-20 minute boat ride going to the island.
From the name itself, FUNtastic Island in Gibitngil promises a fun and adventure-filled getaway experience. It is a place to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze that will surely captivate your hearts. Really, the first time I saw the water surrounding the island it is really a wonderful thing to see.
Located in Gibitngil Island in Medellin, Northern Cebu, Funtastic Island has an entrance fee of ₱15 only, but the boat rental will cost you around ₱100-150 per person (roundtrip).
Photo by Darcy Duane Carungay
Photo by Baterplay Alarde Lepaopao
FUNtastic Activities To Do
Aside from chilling by the beach under their affordable cottages (₱200-500 per day), snorkeling and swimming, here are some of the funtastic activities you can do at Funtastic Island.
Cliff Jumping
You can go as high as 40-feet high, but you may also opt for the lower ones like the 20- and 30-feet.
Photo by Kenneth Goc-ong
Zip Line – ₱50
Photo by Cold Eena
Kayak – ₱200
Photo by Kelly Brown
Jeramel Paul Tapic
Rates & Other Information
Entrance fee: ₱15 each for adults and kids (with environmental fee)
Corkage fee: None
Cottage: ₱200, ₱300, ₱350, ₱400 & ₱500 per day
Overnight room (Fan): ₱1,500, good for 4pax
Kayak: ₱200 per hour
Life Vest: ₱50 per use
Zip Line: ₱50 per ride (one-way)
Boat rental: – ₱1,500 round-trip, good for 10 to 15 persons. – ₱1,000 round-trip, good for 4 persons and below. – You may opt to join with other groups. For boat rentals, contact 0933-302-6638 / 0956-984-2596.
Exact location: Gibitngil Island, Medellin, Northern Cebu — 3-4 hours away from Cebu City.
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride any bus or v-hire going to Kawit, Medellin. Bus fare is ₱180 per person, v-hire is ₱170 per person. Land travel is 3-4 hours. From there, ride a motor boat going to Gibitngil Island. Boat travel is 15-20 minutes.
BY CAR: If you opt to bring your car, just navigate with Waze and pin your location to Kawit Medellin or to any beach resort nearby where you can park your car. You can try Kevin’s Beach Resort, Seahorse Tourist Inn or Emelia Hotel and Resort. Parking fee may range from ₱50 to ₱150 per day. From there, ask around where you can ride a boat going to Funtastic Island.
It is definitely already a Cebuano tradition to have the Colon Night Market as part of our Christmas season routine. This is similar to Cebuanos always having the giant Christmas tree in Fuente to look forward to in November. These are pieces of our local identity that are delicately weaved within our childhood, and growing up, they have always completed the holiday feeling.
On October 27, 2023, get ready for your vehicles to be rerouted because the Colon Night Market is back to parade the streets.
The Colon Night Market has always been a staple, especially for the working class who are very eager to check out what affordable goods are on sale. For those who need context, the night market is an all-around bazaar that sells all sorts of items like clothes, bags, jewelry, you name it!
The prices of goods during the night market start as low as Php 20, and it truly amplifies the Christmas spirit since the affordability almost feels like a gift.
But of course, let’s not forget one of the things that pull people into this place so much during the holiday season – Colon Street delicacies. If you live in the heart of the city, or at least have the responsibility of going there regularly, you can see vendors pushing carts of kwek-kwek, tempura, saang, street-side chicken, and of course, you can’t miss the resident shake stall just outside of Mcdonald’s across Novo. On normal days, these carts and stalls are scattered around the area. Some carts are also mobile, which means that they won’t be staying at one place the entire time. It is a lot more convenient for customers during night market season, because then you’d know where to find all of these stalls.
Still retaining their low prices, you can enjoy these Colon Street delicacies without having to scramble around to look for them as the wide array of choices are all present in the night market. It’s been waiting for you.
It really is a bliss to be able to walk through the different stalls and scout prospects of your purchase, with the experience being very reminiscent of when you were a child and every time you saw something you wanted, you’d just tug the edge of your mother’s shirt so she could buy it for you. The lights that vine over the entire place are nothing you haven’t already seen, but the nostalgia sure makes it all feel extraordinary.
As an adult, I don’t see Christmas the same way I used to as a child. But things like the Colon Night Market are fragments of my childhood that I just happen to occasionally meet every now and then which gently remind me, almost like a stranger poking my back, that, oh, Christmas is here.
The temporary closing of Kawasan Falls last June due to the renovations by virtue of Governor Gwendolyn Garcia’s directive has only kept Cebuanos and tourists alike at the edge of their seats. Kawasan Falls has long been a premier destination for those who plan to go canyoneering or simply go to a waterfall – if anything, Kawasan Falls has always been the first to come to mind whenever someone mentioned waterfalls to any local.
Photo from The Island Nomad / John Ray Aligato
Just yesterday (October 26, 2023), Kawasan Falls was finally reopened to the public as announced by the municipal tourism officer, Earl Vincent Endab. Not only have the premises been renovated, but the local government has also improved their standards for local businesses in order to ensure a smoother flow, as well as safer operations.
Private tour operators in the area have been required to meet government regulations, including registration with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), and a training program in order to better resume their roles. The estimated 900 tour guides and operators also now have insurance subsidized by the Capitol.
Photo from The Island Nomad / John Ray AligatoPhoto from The Island Nomad / John Ray Aligato
To visit Kawasan Falls, guests must make their bookings through the online portal of the Capitol, and they will then be referred to the local government unit (LGU) of Badian.
The new set of prices for activities in Kawasan Falls are as follows:
Entrance Fee: Php 200 good for 3 hours, Php 100 for the succeeding hours
Nicole Yance Borromeo is a Cebuana Beauty Queen who was crowned Miss Silka Cebu 2017, Miss Mandaue 2018, Sinulog Festival Queen 2019, Miss Teen Philippines 2019, Eat Bulaga’s Miss Millenial Philippines 2019, Binibining Pilipinas 2022, and Miss International 2023.
Congratulations, Nicole! You’ve made Cebu and the Philippines proud!
On the set of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, David Holmes met with an unfortunate incident which paralyzed him due to a spinal injury.
Photo from Warner Bros. Pictures
Debilitated from the chest down, Holmes is set to talk about living with such a limiting disability as well as having grown up as a teen gymnast working as a stunt double in one of the biggest franchises from the very first film until the accident in 2009. This documentary will explore the coming of age of Holmes with personal footage and behind-the-scenes videos of his stunt work, and it will be executive-produced by Daniel Radcliffe himself.
The documentary will explore Holmes’ bond with Radcliffe over the next 10 years, expressing his gratitude to him as well as the medical staff who have helped him with this condition and its treatment all the way through. At large, the documentary will focus on the perspective of Holmes with themes of living with such a landscape-defining happenstance, growing up and making something out of what one is given.
“Being a stuntman was my calling in life, and doubling Harry was the best job in the world. In January 2009, I had a stunt rehearsal accident that changed my life forever. This film tells the story of, not just my achievements in front of camera, but also the challenges I face every day, and my overall attitude to life after suffering a broken neck,”
Holmes expresses in the announcement of his documentary.
Radcliffe has also mentioned his thoughts about stunt work and humanizes those who are in this line of work, highlighting how hard and risky it is.
“I think there’s a myth around stuntmen that they are just superhuman in some way,”
Radcliffe said of the podcast at the time.
Photo from davidholmes83 on Instagram
“When the public sees something really painful or horrible, they think it was a visual effect or that there’s some clever, safe way of doing it. Often that’s not the case.”
You can stream the documentary during its premiere on November 15 on HBO and Max. You can also do so on November 18 on NOW and Sky Documentaries.
Situated away from urban life, this campsite offers a tranquil haven for campers and nature lovers looking to disconnect and unwind. Gather around a crackling fire pit with your friends and family as you share stories and create lasting memories in this wonderful destination – The Tagbao River Camp.
Photo from Tagbao River Campground
The Camp’s Scenery
One of the most compelling reasons to visit a riverside campground is the breathtaking scenery it offers. Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of rippling water, surrounded by forests and different fauna that live in the area. Whether you’re an avid photographer or just someone who appreciates the beauty of the great outdoors, this is a haven for capturing stunning landscapes.
Photo from Juliron Fallera
Tagbao River
One of the standout features of Tagbao River Camp is its access to the crystal-clear waters of the Tagbao River. Most campsites are located in a mountainous area, but due to the geographical location of Tagbao, you’re also able to spend your days swimming in the cool, refreshing river aside from having your camping adventures.
Photo from Tagbao River Campground
Outdoor Activities
Riverside campgrounds are a gateway to a plethora of outdoor activities. From fishing and kayaking to hiking and wildlife watching, you’ll have no shortage of adventures to embark on. For anglers, the riverbanks often offer excellent fishing opportunities, while hikers can explore nearby trails that wind through the woods.
And while adventures abound at a riverside campground, it’s also a place where you can relax and unwind. Spend your days exploring, and your evenings by the campfire, roasting marshmallows, and gazing at the starry night sky. The tranquil atmosphere can provide the perfect escape.
Tagbao River Camp is a haven for adventurers, offering stunning natural beauty, a wide array of activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Experienced campers and novices alike, this is a great way to escape the city. So, pack your camping gear, gather your friends and family, and embark on a journey that will take you to the heart of nature’s beauty.
Photo from Juliron FalleraPhoto from Juliron FalleraPhoto from Juliron Fallera
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Entrance fee: ₱25 per head
ROOM RATES: (or COTTAGE FEES)
Tent Setup: ₱200
OTHER INFORMATION:
Corkage fee: None
Contact numbers: N/A
Email address: N/A
Facebook Page: N/A
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Tagbao River, Cebu
BY BUS: You can ride a bus that goes to Transcentral Highway. Ask to be dropped at Barangay Tap-Tap, and you may ride a habal-habal and get to the location by going straight and traveling 2-3 km until reaching Barangay Tagbao.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Tagbao River”
