Home Blog Page 12

Solana’s Recovery Fuels Final Chance To Get Into Solaxy’s Explosive Presale

Solana (SOL) is regaining momentum after a volatile week triggered by geopolitical tensions. With a 7% recovery over the last 24 hours and increasing adoption among institutions, the crypto community is paying close attention.

Meanwhile, Solaxy, a new layer-2 project built on Solana, is closing its record-breaking presale. This convergence of bullish market data and growing utility signals a strong opportunity for investors.

Resilience After Volatility: Solana Bounces Back

On June 11, Solana surprised analysts by rising to $168 despite the broader market pullback. The Israel-Iran conflict had triggered uncertainty across global financial markets, causing most digital assets to retrace. 

SOL was no exception in dropping its key support at $140. However, this level once again held firm, that has already shown strength last June 5. Since then, Solana has steadily climbed by 0.5% increase over seven days and a sharp 7% jump in just 24 hours.

This price action suggests that confidence is returning. With an RSI of 49, Solana remains in a neutral zone, offering a potential entry point for new investors. According to Coinglass, a net inflow of $17 million in SOL was recorded on June 15, 2025. Such capital movements often precede stronger price rallies, especially when supported by macro and on-chain fundamentals.

In the short term, to maintain its upward momentum, SOL needs to break through resistance levels at the $158 to $164 range. These levels have been especially volatile, as both resistance and support. 

This decisive breakout past $162 will allow Solana to target $185, hence, a key milestone that could signal the return of the bullish trend that was seen at the beginning of the year.

Solaxy’s Explosive Presale Nears Finale

While Solana regains traction, Solaxy is closing in on the final hours of its presale. This project aims to enhance the Solana ecosystem by introducing a faster, cheaper, and more scalable environment for decentralized applications and memecoin trading. 

Solaxy’s $SOLX token offers staking features that enable holders to earn passive income, combining functionality with financial incentives.

The market has responded positively. Solaxy has raised nearly $55 million, placing it among the most successful ICOs of 2025. Each $SOLX token is priced at $0.001766, and with only 5 days remaining in the presale, time is running out for early investors. Once the token lists on exchanges, its price is expected to rise, making now potentially the last opportunity to enter at a discounted rate.

The current momentum around Solana is not just retail-driven. Wall Street brokerage Cantor has begun covering three companies with treasury reserves held in SOL. These include DeFi Development (DFDV), Upexi (UPXI), and Sol Strategies (HODL). 

An “overweight” rating was assigned to all three, forecasting target prices at $45, $16, and $54 CAD, respectively. Thus, these endorsements reflect growing institutional confidence in Solana’s role in future financial infrastructure.

Why Solana is Preferred Over Ethereum

Cantor’s analysis positions Solana as a better treasury asset than Ethereum, citing faster transaction speeds, lower fees, and a growing developer base. Despite Ethereum’s larger market cap at roughly 2.5 times that of Solana, which the brokerage argues that Solana’s fundamentals provide a stronger long-term value proposition.

One of the key metrics that supports this view is the developer growth. Solana has recently surpassed Ethereum in attracting new developers, which signals a more vibrant and innovative ecosystem. This growth translates into more dApps, tools, and user-facing products that expand the blockchain’s real-world utility.

Valuation Premium for Solana Treasury Firms

Cantor’s report also suggests that companies holding SOL in their treasuries should be valued at a premium relative to their net asset value. This is due to the belief that Solana is not just a financial asset but a strategic technology stack for on-chain financial systems. In other words, Solana’s utility gives it value beyond its market price.

For investors, this is a critical insight. Solana’s adoption as a treasury asset implies an increased demand, a reduced circulating supply, and more stable price floors. Furthermore, companies leveraging Solana for the treasury purposes are more likely to receive higher market valuations, that benefits shareholders and drives further interest.

These developments come during the time when decentralized finance is gaining traction globally. When more companies and institutions move towards the on-chain solutions, the need for blockchain that are scalable, efficient, and low-cost become essential. 

Thus, Solana fits these requirements, making it the prime candidate serving the core infrastructure for future finance.

On the other hand, the retail investors that have broader institutional interest in Solana validates its long-term potential. Combining the near-term price recovery and projects like Solaxy launching within its ecosystem, a current environment offering multiple entry points for participation.

Final Hours: Act Now or Miss Out on $SOLX

The Solaxy presale, in particular, offers an alternative way to gain exposure to Solana’s growth. By investing in $SOLX tokens, users can benefit from the expansion of Solana-based services while also earning staking rewards. The project’s dual appeal is functional and financial has helped it attract millions in funding in a short period.

However, this window is closing quickly. In just about two hours left before the presale ends, potential investors should act quickly in securing the $SOLX at its current price. After this phase, token availability will shift to the open market, where pricing is often subject to volatility and higher demand.

The meeting of these events makes a bullish scenario for Solana. From price rebound and solid technical support to institutional investment and ecosystem growth, SOL is indicating it’s ready to go into a new growth cycle.

Solana’s Multi-Dimensional Growth

Solana’s resurgence is supported by both short-term momentum and long-term fundamentals. The project is no longer just an Ethereum competitor but rather, is carving out its own identity as a cornerstone of decentralized finance. 

The institutional confidence grows and innovative projects emerge within its ecosystem, where Solana is positioning itself at the forefront of the next wave of blockchain adoption.

Investors looking to diversify or strengthen their crypto portfolios must closely consider the current developments. The combination of Solana’s technical strengths, favorable market structure, and ecosystem growth presents a compelling case for entry before the next rally leaves latecomers behind.

K-pop Buzz: Super Junior’s PH Comeback, BTS Done With Military, Enhypen Wins Again

For their 20th anniversary, Super Junior celebrates with a world tour ‘Super Show 10” and is officially back on the road. 

After debuting in 2005, the kpop group Super Junior celebrates their 20th anniversary with a world tour from their biggest hits and new track albums from their upcoming album Super Junior 25 that is set to release on July 8, 2025. 

The Super Show 10

The “Super Show 10” concert will take place in the SM Mall of Asia Arena on October 4, 2025 (Saturday). Ticket details regarding the concert haven’t been released yet, but local promoter Pulp Live world is expected to announce them soon. So  be on the lookout for any updates, they brought Super Junior to the Philippines back in 2010 and are known for organizing K-pop events.

Other Kpop News 

As of now Cebu doesn’t have any events coming related to kpop, but Robinsons Galleria Ortigas in Pasig City, Metro Manila, has a celebration about the K-culture and features:

  • K-pop Cover Dance Festivals, where finalists will compete to represent the Philippines in Korea
  • Performances by graduates of the 2025 K-pop Academy
  • Fan booths, K-variety inspired games and exclusive merch giveaways
  • A booth by KCOPA to raise awareness about copyright in digital fan content.
Photo from Robinsons Galleria’s Facebook Page

BTS Completes Military Service

By June 21, 2025, all seven members of BTS have officially completed their mandatory military service, with Suga 

being the last to be discharged. The timing aligns with BTS Festa 2025, with their 12th debut anniversary celebration, 

and fans are buzzing about a potential full group comeback later this year. 

Enhypen’s second win for “Bad Desire (With or Without You)” 

The Kpop group Enhypen bags a win at KBS’s Music Bank aired on June 13, 2025 and it’s a standout moment in their current promotion cycle. The song has beaten SEVENTEEN’S “Thunder” that scored 15, 416 points. They performed both “Bad Desire” and “Helium”, delivering a powerful stage that had ENGENEs cheering worldwide.

Twice’s Sana & BTS’s J-Hope on YouTube

The guest episode is for the Youtube talk show “Sana’s Fridge Interview” where J-Hope will be seen on episode 8. In the video, snippets were shown of their conversation about their early years in their idol careers. They both relate their experiences as they are both third generation idols that debuted around the same time, the idols recall the similarities between the two groups, with J-Hope expressing that they took photos together and even danced Super Junior’s “Sorry Sorry” together and shared light hearted banter including Sana cheekily  asking “Can I call you oppa?” that had left J-hope flustered.

A Schist-orical Discovery: Cebu’s Hidden Jurassic Treasure

Before the islands rose, the Tunlob Schist already had a story to tell.

Photo from Fatima Buenaflor Servano

Deep beneath Cebu’s bustling cities and rolling hills lies a geological treasure. The Tunlob Schist is a rock formation dating back to the Jurassic period (approximately 201-145 million years ago). The discovery of this ancient metamorphic rock offers a glimpse into the Philippines’ prehistoric origins, revealing clues about the region’s tectonic evolution. Found within the Pandan Formation, this rock is a key piece in understanding how the Philippine archipelago formed through the collision of the ancient oceanic plates.

Photo from from Trecia Marette

Plates First Danced

The Tunlob Schist is part of the Pandan Formation, a late Cretaceous geological unit in Cebu, composed of metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. Schist is a medium-grade metamorphic rock, meaning it was transformed under intense heat and pressure underground within the Earth’s crust. This discovery suggests that the Island was once part of a dynamic tectonic boundary, where plates collided and subducted millions of years ago. Studies indicate that the Tunlob Schist contains minerals and geochemical signatures associated with the Australian continental margin. It means that Cebu’s rocks may have originated from ancient fragments of the Australian crust. Making the Schist a crucial piece of evidence in reconstructing the Philippines’ geological history.

Photo by Deberly Llanos

Under Press

The fascinating metamorphic rock, Tunlob Schist, is formed under the intense pressure likely due to subduction, where tectonic plates slide beneath one another. Composed of minerals such as chlorite, muscovite, and quartz, its composition suggests it originated from deep-sea sediments or volcanic rocks that underwent significant transformation over millions of years. The surrounding Pandan Formation dates back to the Late Cretaceous period. The rock itself may be older, possibly dating back to the Jurassic era, based on geological comparisons with similar rock formations in the region. The Tunlob Schist is exposed in areas where erosion has stripped away the younger layer of rocks, revealing the hidden relics of the Earth’s dynamic past.

Photo by Deberly Llanos

Proof Written In Stones

The discovery of Tunlob Schist serves as a geological time capsule, offering invaluable insights into the Philippines’ history. The presence of the rock helps scientists trace the origin of the archipelago’s tectonic origin, revealing connections to the continent of Australia and an ancient ocean basin. Moreover, studying this rock enhances our understanding of how our island is shaped based on subduction and the mountain-building process. For geologists and rock enthusiasts alike, the Tunlob Schist is a rare and tangible link to the Jurassic era, making it a remarkable discovery and a national treasure here in Cebu.

As research continues, the Tunlob Schist stands as a witness to Cebu’s ancient past, from a time when dinosaurs still roamed the Philippine island as it was still forming. The Jurassic-age rock may reveal valuable information and secrets about the force that formed our majestic Island as we know it today.  For those who seek to uncover the mysteries beneath our feet, Cebu’s geological wonders offer a fascinating journey through deep time.

Reopening Its Doors: Cebu City Public Library Is Open Again!

The safest place for students to study just announced its reopening soon!

Photo from Pexels

The Cebu City Public Library (CCPL) holds a special place in the hearts of Cebuanos. Its transformation into a 24 hour facility began with a simple Facebook comment from a student at Cebu Institute of Technology University (CIT-U), asking then-Mayor Tomas Osmeña if the library could stay open round-the-clock. That request sparked a movement that led to upgraded facilities and extended hours to better serve the community. Now, following a long pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CCPL has officially announced its reopening. For students seeking a peaceful, cost-free space to study, and for freelancers or professionals in need of a quiet place to work, the library offers a welcoming and accessible environment for all.

Photo from the Cebu City Public Library Facebook Page

Anong Meron?

The Library is located on Osmeña Boulevard in Cebu City, 6000, and all those seeking information are welcome to enter for free. The facilities provide free wifi access, electric outlets where users may bring extension wires, computers with wifi connections for research and web searches, and reading places for students, freelancers, and researchers, which also include a book library of over 25,000 titles.

Photo from the Cebu City Public Library Facebook Page
Photo from Tommy Osmena
Photo from Tommy Osmena

What Netizens Think

In a facebook post from Cebu City’s current Mayor, Nestor Archival, comments from the post garnered positive feedback from fellow cebuanos commenting their thanks and appreciation of opening up the library’s doors. Commenters who are beneficiaries of the 24 hour open library commented their thanks as they have studied in the library after their job until the wee hours of the morning. The move to open up the library has touched the hearts of many, with some netizens even sharing their experiences and expressing their thanks as they share how the public library had given them a quiet place for either a study place, a workplace, and even a safety sanctuary.

How to Get There?

Exact Location: G/F, Rizal Memorial Library and Museum Bldg, Osmeña Blvd, Lungsod ng Cebu.

  • By Commute: You can ride any PUJ that will pass through the capitol, 14D, 04H, 17D and many more. Then ask the driver to drop you off at Fuente Circle or Cebu Normal University then the library is just a short wa;l from there.
  • By Car: If you’re driving, you can use google maps or waze and simply navigate toward Osmeña Blvd and look for the Rizal Memorial Library and Museum Building. There’s limited street parking nearby, so it’s best to arrive early or use nearby paid parking lots.

Plot Twist!: PH Animation Breakthrough Of The Series “Sun Chaser”

Sun Chaser blazes a trail for Filipino animation, turning myths into global magic.

Photo from Annecy Festival 

The Philippines is making waves in the global animation scene for the upcoming release of “Sun Chaser,” crafted by Bobby Pontillas and Bernard Badion. The series is a Filipino animation produced by Toon City Animation, which follows its selection at the prestigious Annecy International Film Festival 2025. Even before its official release, the animated show is already generating international buzz, signaling a promising future for the Philippine animation industry.

Alamat Mode: Activate!

Sun Chaser is an original fantasy-adventure series that combines Philippine mythology with modern elements. The plot follows Jordan Santos, a teenager who thought it would be a chill summer but takes a wild turn when a threat plunges onto the island, causing chaos. As he discovers a power awakening within him, he must rise to his legacy, which he never knew existed, and protect the balance between the spirit and the human world to achieve peace. The series incorporates traditional Filipino art style with modern animation techniques.

Where To Watch

The details for the distribution on the platform have not been confirmed yet, as the production is still ongoing. However, the series has been selected at Annecy (A global animation market), which suggests the series is attracting international interest, making it likely available in major streaming services or can be broadcast on a channel once the series is finished. The series is expected to be released in 2025, but no confirmed date for the actual viewing has been announced. 

Kwento Ng Bayan, Hype Ng Mundo

The animated series “Sun Chaser” represents global recognition, cultural showcase, industry growth, and creative inspiration. The series is selected for Annecy, which proves Filipino animation can compete in the international market. It also showcases Filipino culture, which explores the country’s mythology and artistry, while demonstrating the capabilities of Filipino animation studios. The prior release of the series encouraged more original Filipino animated artists to work hard and be recognized.

Photos from Catsuka’s Facebook Page

The global representation of the Philippines by the series “Sun Chaser” stands as a testament to the growing industry of Philippine animation on the world stage. As the series is being completed and is ready to compete and debut locally and internationally, it promises not just entertainment but also to elevate the country’s position in the global animation industry. With its unique Filipino perspective and execution, “Sun Chaser” may be a new dawn for Philippine animation.

Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 WNBA Commissioner’s Cup

The 2025 WNBA Commissioner’s Cup is already shaping up to be one of the most dynamic midseason competitions in the league’s history. Taking place from June 1 to June 17, with the final scheduled for July 1, this year’s edition carries higher stakes, deeper rivalries, and a new wave of emerging talent. It’s more than just a tournament – it’s a proving ground for teams pushing toward playoff form and for players aiming to define their legacy. To help you stay on top of the action, the experts at 1xBet have prepared this in-depth overview of everything you need to know.

The format of the Commissioner’s Cup is unique within the WNBA. Though the Cup games are part of the regular season, they hold a separate standing and purpose. Each team plays a series of designated Cup games against conference rivals – five games in the Eastern Conference, six in the Western Conference due to a different number of teams. The two teams with the best record in these Cup matchups from each conference advance to the final. If teams are tied, the league uses head-to-head results, point differential, and if necessary, a coin toss to break the tie.

This year, the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx have emerged as early favorites. Liberty remain undefeated in Cup play, showcasing elite synergy from Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Jonquel Jones. The Lynx, equally impressive, have dominated the West with an 8-0 Cup record led by Napheesa Collier’s all-around brilliance and solid contributions from Natisha Hiedeman. Meanwhile, teams like the Phoenix Mercury are experimenting with new rotations, giving rising players like Lexie Held space to shine, while perennial contenders like the Las Vegas Aces struggle to regain their footing.

Beyond the competition itself, the Cup continues to serve a broader mission. Sponsored by Coinbase, the tournament features a prize pool of $500,000, with an additional $120,000 in crypto bonuses. Every player participating in the final receives $5,000 in cryptocurrency. But perhaps more impactful is the charitable angle: each WNBA team partners with a local nonprofit organization, and every Cup win adds a financial contribution to their cause, blending high-stakes basketball with meaningful community impact.

The Commissioner’s Cup also plays a key role in shaping the playoff race. With 44 regular-season games this year, the Cup schedule forces teams to test their depth and flexibility early in the season. Coaches must balance short-term tactical gains with long-term development, giving younger players the chance to gain valuable experience under pressure. For fans, it offers a glimpse into how playoff teams are being built- not just through star power, but through consistency, chemistry, and purpose.

Looking ahead, the final on July 1 will be hosted by the team with the best overall Cup record. If current trends hold, a Liberty vs. Lynx matchup seems inevitable – two franchises that have invested in long-term roster building and tactical versatility. But with plenty of Cup games still to be played, surprises are still on the table, especially with emerging talents like Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever) and Angel Reese (Chicago Sky) making their mark.

As the WNBA continues to evolve in scope, audience, and ambition, the Commissioner’s Cup has proven itself as more than a novelty. It’s a strategic barometer for the league’s top teams and a storytelling engine for its rising stars. Whether you’re watching for the high-level play, the emotional stakes, or the social impact, this year’s tournament is delivering on all fronts- and we’ll be watching closely as the road to July 1 unfolds.

The Reef Island Resort Mactan Unveils an Elevated 3D/2N Couples & Family Escape  

STAY. EAT. RELAX. REPEAT.

Mactan, Cebu — Escape the routine and embrace the rhythm of the sea. Whether you’re craving a  quiet retreat with your partner or making memories with the little ones, The Reef Island Resort Mactan invites you to unwind with a beautifully curated 3-day, 2-night getaway — just minutes from home, yet  a world away. 

With rates starting at PHP 19,900+, you can enjoy a luxury island experience — without leaving Cebu. 

Nestled along Mactan’s white-sand shores and offering uninterrupted views of the Hilutungan  Channel and Olango Island, The Reef is where everyday life slows down. Here, luxury meets ease — spacious oceanfront rooms, calm waters, and thoughtful experiences designed to bring you closer to  what matters most. 

COUPLES RETREAT – from PHP 19,900+  

Celebrate time together with a 2-night stay in a Deluxe Room, designed for rest, romance, and  coastal charm. 

• Wake up to daily buffet breakfast for two 

• Enjoy PHP 2,000 in dining credits across our restaurants 

• Let go of stress with a one-hour massage each 

• Indulge in a wine and tropical fruit welcome platter 

• Plus, a complimentary minibar to enjoy at your leisure 

FAMILY ADD-ON – Just PHP 2,999+  

Bringing the kids? Add joy to your escape with a seamless family upgrade (for up to 2 children under 12 years old). 

• Kids stay comfortably in your room for two nights 

• Start their day with daily breakfast made for little appetites 

• Let them explore with unlimited access to The Kids Club & Arcade 

• Need a breather? Enjoy a one-hour babysitting service (with advance booking) • Plus, a molding clay kit to spark creativity and keep little hands busy 

MAKE IT LAST LONGER  

• Couples: PHP 7,000+ per additional night 

• Families: PHP 8,000+ per additional night 

Additional nights include breakfast.

EXPERIENCE MORE DURING YOUR STAY 

From morning dips to sunset paddleboarding, your stay includes full access to: 

• White-sand beachfront & infinity pool 

• Non-motorized water sports (kayaks, paddleboards) 

• Pickleball courts & fully equipped gym 

• Family lounges, and more 

Booking & Stay Period:  

June 15 – September 30, 2025 

Terms & Conditions:  

• Rates inclusive of taxes; 10% service charge applies 

• Valid for a 3D/2N stay 

• Family add-on applies to 2 adults + 2 children (under 12 years old) 

• Dining credits are non-refundable and non-convertible 

• Babysitting service must be booked in advance 

• Offer subject to availability; prior reservations required 

Ask us about our full range of room categories.  

Rediscover the joy of slowing down, savoring the moment, and making it all about you — only at The  Reef Island Resort Mactan.

VISA-Free Extended: Taiwan Says Tara Na for Pinoy Travelers

Tara G! Taiwan gives the green light to more Pinoy flight visa-free until 2026.

Photo from Pexels

Taiwan has officially announced the extension of its visa-free entry program for Philippine passport holders. The schedule of the end policy was initially set to expire on July 31, 2025, but it will now continue starting from August 1  through July 31, 2026. The move aims to strengthen tourism and cultural exchange between Taiwan and the Philippines, while providing a greater convenience for Filipino tourists and workers.

Photo from Pexels

Ready, Get Set, Book!

Taiwan implemented visa-free entry for Filipinos in 2017 as part of its effort to boost tourism and create ties with Southeast Asian nations. The policy has been extended many times due to its positive impact on both travel and economic exchanges. The latest announcement regarding an extension was made by the Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), ensuring that Filipinos can continue to enjoy a hassle-free visit for another year.

Photo from Pexels

Travel Deets

Filipino passport holders can stay in Taiwan for up to 14 days without a visa under this program, even though they must meet specific requirements, such as having a valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity), a confirmed return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and no criminal record. Taiwan has become a popular tourist destination for Filipinos, offering a diverse range of attractions, including Taipei 101, night markets, and scenic spots that are ideal for photography enthusiasts. The visa-free policy has contributed to the rising number of Filipinos visiting the country, with over 400,000 traveling to Taiwan in recent years. The evidence shows the effectiveness of the policy in contributing to Taiwan’s tourism.

Photo from Unsplash.com | Captured by Andrew Haimerl Photo from Unsplash.com | Captured by Y.K

Bond Beyond Borders

The extension of Taiwan’s visa-free policy is beneficial to both countries, as it boosts tourism, strengthens ties, and supports overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). More Filipinos can explore Taiwan’s diverse cuisine, culture, and attractions without the hassle of visa applications. Many can now enjoy stress-free travel to Taiwan, whether alone, with family, or with friends, and every experience is unique as you explore Taiwan’s wonders. Enhancing travel opportunities promotes people-to-people exchanges and economic cooperation. The Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) in Taiwan can take advantage of the policy for short visits. As both countries interact, it strengthens the bond and connection between people.

With the extension of visa-free travel to Taiwan, they reaffirm their commitment to maintaining a friendly relationship between the two countries, making travel much more accessible and hassle-free. Filipino tourists planning a trip to Taiwan can now enjoy smooth entry until mid-2026, making it an ideal time to experience the beauty and culture of Taiwan. Take this chance to experience different cultures, enjoy food trips, and capture some views you’ve never seen before.

Cebu Heritage Monument: Cebu’s History in Statues

Unbeknown to many travelers and visitors to the Queen City of the South, the rich history of Cebu City is actually displayed in a certain district and in plain sight.

Photo by Lenie Lanojan

Standing gloriously in the busy streets of Parian, this amalgamation of Cebu’s most significant and symbolic events, structure, and people retell the story of the Queen City through a tableau of concrete, brass, bronze, and steel statues.

Cebu-Heritage-Monument

It is the proud work of Cebuano artist Eduardo Castrillo and was finished in just 3 years, from July 1997 until its inauguration in December 2000, with the help of the late Senator Marcelo Fernan and pooled donations from private individuals and organizations.

Photo by Lenie Lanojan

The monument artistically displays key historical figures, events and structures that involve Cebu. Erected at the center of the monument is the famous Magellan’s Cross which marked the acceptance of Roman Catholicism in the country. Other scenes and events depicted in Heritage Monument are the arrival of Ferdinand Magellan and the Spanish colonizers, baptism of Rajah Jumabon, the Battle of Mactan between Lapu-Lapu and Magellan, and a procession of the Sto. Niño.

Heritage of Cebu Monument (Photo by dhead)

Famous religious structures in Cebu such as the Basilica del Santo Niño, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, and St. John the Baptist Church present as well. Finally, historical Cebuano figures such as the late president Sergio Osmeña, Sr. and the recently beatified Pedro Calungsod have also been immortalized.

The Cebu Heritage Monument is also located in the historically significant Parian District – home to prominent families of the old Cebu and the center of trade between locals, Chinese, and Spanish Mestizos. It also served as the venue for lavish events organized by wealthy Chinese merchants. “Parian” was derived from the term “pari-pari” meaning “to barter or trade” which made the perfect name for the district. The rich history of the plaza can be seen from the 17th to 19th Century homes that are still standing up to this day.

Photo by Lenie Lanojan
Photo by Lenie Lanojan
Photo by Lenie Lanojan

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

ENTRANCE FEES

  • There are no entrance fees to the monument but donations for its upkeep are greatly appreciated.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Colon Street, Parian Plaza, Cebu City

  • BY JEEPNEY: From Colon Street in Downtown, Cebu City, take a jeep bound for SM and Pier. The jeep will pass by the monument. You may remind the driver to drop you off at the Cebu Heritage Monument.
  • BY TAXI/GRAB: Taxi cabs are quite familiar with the place. You may ride any taxi or book with an app.
  • BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to Cebu Heritage Monument. Ask locals for directions if you need help.

Map It, Track It, Hike It: Apps for Your Next Climb

I’m always climbing to reach you…

Photo by Sean Chavez

Have you ever thought of just disappearing into the trees for a while? When life gets busy, don’t forget to pause and take a breath. We all look for ways to keep us grounded, some take long walks, others unwind through yoga and many find peace in the slow, steady rhythm of a hike up the mountain. When the rest of the town, still fast asleep, you and maybe some friends all start your trek up the mountain. What makes it even better, is that you get to see the view with your hard work.

Photo by Sean Chavez
Photo by Sean Chavez

If you want to track your progress and explore trails as you hike, here’s a list of reliable apps that can guide you on your journey:

Strava

Once famous among runners and bikers, Strava now embraces hikers as well! The recently viral app Strava, has gained popularity to many runners in the social media space. With the new 2025 update, it now has a larger scale of features to use. Its route discovery uses AI to recommend hiking routes based on popular trails from its global community, their global heat maps also shows hikers where they have gone, assisting theme find well trodden or hidden paths depending on preference, but just be careful when you do so, with the flyover feature of the app, it shows you a replay of your trek up the mountain in a dynamic 3D map and share it with friends on social media. 

PinasPeaks

It is a Philippine based hiking app that is designed to guide users track, document, and share their mountain climb even despite lacking internet signal. It was made by a Filipino for Filipinos. The app was created by Jeffret Valednor, and the app is popular among local mountaineers who want to log their climbs, upload photos and videos to preserve their memories from the trail. It also has a tracker to record your track on summits and achievements. With the ability to add new mountains or trails via google forms. 

AllTrails

With casual hikers and seasoned hikers, the app offers access to over 450,00 curated trail maps worldwide and it includes detailed trail descriptions, elevation profiles, user photos, and reviews to help you choose the right path. With filters like trail difficulty, length or dog-friendliness makes it easy to personalize your adventure. While the free version covers the majority of the features, the Pro-upgrade unlocks offline maps, weather overlays, and wrong turn alerts, especially helpful in remote areas. 

Gaia GPS

Those who like backcountry exploration and mountaineering, the app is an advanced tool that provides high-resolution topographic, satellite, and National Geographic map layers. It excels in route planning, elevation tracking, and off the grid navigation, especially with its offline map access that is only available after upgrading to premium. Gaia (Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives) also includes weather forecasts, sunrise to sunset data, and even hunting or trail overlays for specialized use. If you want precise, control and a broad toolkit in one app, then Gaia is the app for you. 

PeakVisor

A mobile app that utilizes augmented reality and #d maps to identify nearby mountain peaks, display their names and elevations, provide other outdoor navigation tools. It’s designed to be a comprehensive tool for mountain exploration, offering features like peak identification, trail navigation, GPS tracking and more. The app also works offline, and its AR viewer turns into an educational experience, helping you connect with the geography around you in a visually dynamic way.

Photo by Sean Chavez

If you worry that the apps listed are paid, don’t worry, they offer free versions which still gives you access to basic features. Most have GPS tracking, waypoints, and activity feed available for free versions of the apps. So take on your mountaineering gears and tie up your shoes and use the apps on your journey. Happy Climbing!