Mactan Cebu International Airport is well-known among locals and foreigners alike as the beginning and end of a travel experience. Honing their name and experience since 1966, MCIA earns the title as the first airline in the Philippines to be globally accredited by the Airports Council International during the ACI Customer Experience Global Summit last September 6, 2023.
Photo from Mactan-Cebu International Airport Facebook Page
Earning this prestige from a prominent international aviation council is a huge deal both for MCIA and Philippine tourism. Aviation industries are becoming more and more competitive as the COVID-19 pandemic has recently lifted, and being accredited by the ACI strengthens MCIA’s claim as an excellent and globally competent airline.
The ACI is the body which keeps airlines in check in terms of health protocols, security, and the like. Back in 2021, The Mactan Cebu International Airport received the Airport Health Accreditation from the council for their proactive and excellent work in keeping travel as safe as possible.
Photo from Mactan-Cebu International Airport Facebook PagePhoto from Mactan-Cebu International Airport Facebook Page
Now, with their strong resistance from plateauing regarding their great efforts in achieving excellence and great service, the MCIA continued to improve itself in taking initiative in ensuring customer satisfaction. Being the first in the Philippines to be awarded this recognition, the tourism department congratulated MCIA and acknowledged it as a great inspiration for achieving such a milestone.
Soon, Bantayan Island will be at par with the most luxurious vacation destinations around the world.
It’s official: the Ocoy Hotel & Villas finally breaks ground, marking a new era of luxury living on the beautiful island of Bantayan with a staggering 9.3 hectares of land property. Last September 6, 2023, the PhilSwiss United Holding Corp. unveiled its prestigious development project at Brgy. Okoy, Santa Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu.
The event was graced by the presence of PhilSwiss United Holding Corp Chairman Heinz Zimmermann, Hans Chua (PhilSwiss President), Stephan Roemer (PhilSwiss Director), Lily Udomkunnatum (PhilSwiss Director), Oscar Chua (PhilSwiss Director), Yvonne Sabordo (PhilSwiss Director), Atty. Abel Montejo (PhilSwiss Director/Legal Council), Dr. Francis Escario (Shareholder), Kresta Tizon (PhlSwiss Sales and Director), Denise Chua, Architect Ed Calma (Designer), Jocelyn Sapina, and Jorena Etrata.
Governor Gwendolyn Garcia was also present during the groundbreaking along with DOT Regional Director Shalimar Tamaro, Santa Fe Vice Mayor Greleigh P. Cabrera, and other Santa Fe Bantayan Officials.
Order of VIPs from left to right: PhilSwiss Director Oscar Chua, PhilSwiss Director Lily Udomkunnatum, PhilSwiss Director and Founder Stephan Roemer, PhilSwiss President Hans Chua, Department of Tourism Region 7, Chief Tourism Operations Officer Tourism Regulations Division, Judy Dela Cruz Gabato, PhilSwiss Chairman Heinz Zimmerman, Cebu Province Governor Hon. Gwendolyn Garcia, Mayor Ithamar Espinosa of Santa Fe represented by Vice Mayor Greleigh Cabrera, Mayor Arthur Despi of Bantayan, represented by his Executive Assistant Mary Joan Danao, Architect Ed Calma
A Glimpse of the Ocoy Hotel & Villas
The Ocoy Hotel & Villas will become a sophisticated and luxurious paradise for those looking to invest in ocean-side villas. There will be 101 luxury pool villas designed down to every detail to provide elegant and modern accommodation. The villas will also be automated to provide a more convenient experience.
The Ocoy Hotel & Villas’ design is from the great mind of world-renowned architect Ed Calma. The design will also incorporate sustainability plans to preserve the natural beauty of the area’s mangroves, lagoon, beaches, and wildlife.
The Villas come in 4 types such as:
Beachfront Villa Diamond Lux
Stunning Ocean View and private beach access
Beachfront Villa Platinum Lux
A view of the stunning mangroves
Beach Villa Golden Lux
Directly on the Beach
Garden Villa Golden Lux
Private pool
Rooftop terrace/garden
Here are other five-star amenities to expect at the Ocoy Hotel & Villas
Cliff Restaurant
The restaurants will feature both local and international culinary delights.
Clubhouse (with Bar, Entertainment Area, Restaurant and Lounge Type Reception)
Wellness and Spa Facilities
Basketball Court
Tennis Court
Kids’ club and family pool
Water Sports Amenities
“Every aspect of The Ocoy Hotel & Villas has been meticulously crafted to provide an unparalleled experience,”
said Heinz Zimmermann, Chairman of the PhilSwiss United Holding Corporation.
“From the stunning architecture to the serene surroundings, this project is a tribute to both luxury and the natural beauty of Bantayan Island.”
The project timeline is 45 months, and after that, a new 5-star tourist destination will open. The Ocoy Hotel & Villas will revolutionize Santa Fe, Bantayan’s tourism. According to Yvonne Sabordo (PhilSwiss Director), they aim to put the magnificent Island on the radar of the world.
The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-VII (RTWPB-7) has released Wage No ROVII-24. The order states that minimum wage earners in the private sector in Region VII shall receive a P33.0 increase in their daily wage. The order will be effective on October 1, 2023.
In line with this, the new minimum wage rates now range from P415.00 to P468.00.
Because of the affected region’s existing socio-economic conditions, adjusting workers’ daily wages will help them with the increased cost of living.
According to the order passed by the board, the minimum wage rates are applied to normal working hours, not exceeding 8 hours of work a day. Moreover, regardless of position, designation, or status, the wage increase is applicable to all minimum wage earners.
The order also states that employers, corporations, trusts, firms, partnerships, and associations who do not follow the ordered increase “shall be dealt with pursuant to the provisions of Section 12 of Republic Act No. 6727, as amended by Republic Act No. 8188.
Apple is halted from selling the iPhone 12 due to its intense emission of electromagnetic radiation, as ordered by French regulators. Aside from that, existing handsets are to be fixed as well.
The ANFR tested the iPhone 12 in accredited labs and found that the body absorbed about 5.74 watts per kilogram of electromagnetic energy from the phone. The test was done through a simulation of the phone being held in hand or in the pocket.
The test proves that Apple’s iPhone 12 exceeds the European standard absorption rate of 4.0 watts per kilogram.
“Concerning phones already sold, Apple must in the briefest of delays, take corrective measures to bring the affected phones into compliance,” the ANFR stated on its website. “Otherwise, Apple will have to recall them.”
The order by the French regulators took effect on September 12, 2023.
If you want to know the exposure limits of different countries, you may head to this link.
Apple has yet to give a statement regarding their iPhone 12 products getting pulled out from shelves in France.
Everyone has a dream trip. However, traveling worldwide can be very expensive, from the cost of living, airline tickets, transportation, and accommodation.
But did you know that you are very lucky if you are a Filipino? A New Zealand visa can open the door to many exciting destinations, from the ancient ruins of Egypt to the snow-capped peaks of Georgia.
That’s right, it spares you from the hassle of applying for many visa applications because the New Zealand visa can give you access to other countries, including:
1. South Korea
South Korea | Photo from Unsplash
Visit the bustling metropolis of Seoul, South Korea.
Passengers traveling to Canada, the US, Australia, or New Zealand through South Korea or leaving Canada, the US, Australia, or New Zealand to travel to a third country through South Korea are permitted to stay for a maximum of 30 days with a multiple-entry visa issued by New Zealand.
2. Montenegro
Montenegro | Photo from Unsplash
Take in the stunning mountain scenery here, dear travelers, with your valid 30-day visa issued by New Zealand, Australia, Bulgaria, Ireland, Japan, Romania, USA, Canada, Ireland, Greece, United Kingdom, or a Schengen Member State.
3. Armenia
Armenia | Photo from Unsplash
Travel in Armenia opens a new world of excitement and is rich in history. Stay up here for 120 days with New Zealand-issued visas can purchase one at the airport for 15,000 AMD.
4. Egypt
Egypt | Photo from Unsplash
How about in Egypt? You will love to visit their incredible ancient architecture and learn about the history of one of the world’s largest civilizations.
Passengers may receive a visa on arrival for a stay of up to 30 days if they have a valid and used visa issued by New Zealand, the United States, Australia, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, or a Schengen Member State.
5. Georgia
Georgia | Photo from Unsplash
Take in the stunning mountain scenery here in Georgia. For 90 days out of every 180, travelers with valid New Zealand visas can enter Georgia without a visa.
6. United Kingdom
United Kingdom | Photo from Unsplash
Spend 24 hours in London and see some of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Passengers may request a 24-hour entry at London’s Heathrow Airport for a maximum of 24 hours, transit only if they have a multiple-entry visa granted by New Zealand. They must have a boarding card for their next journey, and they must only be flying to or from New Zealand.
7. Qatar
Qatar | Photo from Unsplash
Soak up the culture of Qatar and experience the Arabian Nights.
Passengers can apply for electronic travel authorization (for a price of 100 QAR), which is suitable for a stay of up to 30 days from the date of issue if they have a valid Schengen, US, UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand visa.
But always remember that your visa must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in each country. You don’t want to be sent back to your country or delay your flight, right? Some instances require you to provide proof of onward travel. Some countries may have additional requirements, such as a health certificate or proof of vaccination.
It’s always best to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you’re visiting for the latest visa requirements. With a New Zealand visa in your passport, the world is your oyster! So start planning your next trip today and see all the amazing places you can visit.
The Force is definitely with actress Diana Lee Inosanto. From training with plastic lightsabers with her dad as a kid, she has now fully embodied the Star Wars fan experience in landing the role of Magistrate Morgan Elsbeth in the franchise’s series, Ahsoka.
Photo from Diana Lee Inosanto
The Coven of Morgan Elsbeth
In Ahsoka, the second season of The Mandalorian, we are introduced to the character played by Inosanto. Morgan Elsbeth is the coldhearted ally of Grand Admiral Thrawn and is one of the main villains in the season. Inosanto showcases her extensive skills through a battle with Rosario Dawson who plays the protagonist, Ahsoka, which the former promises to have more of later on in the season.
Photo from Diana Lee Inosanto
Admitting that she didn’t know more of her character before playing it, Inosanto reveals that the series aims to clear out the fog in front of Morgan, exploring more of her background as a member of the Nightsisters, also known as the Daughters of Dathomir, which is a coven of witches who practice dark magic and have great aptitude in war. Inosanto gives justice to the character with her menacing aura, and her prowess in combat.
Diana’s Martial Arts Background
Being the daughter of a legendary Filipino martial artist and training partner of Bruce Lee, Dan Inosanto, it is no surprise that Diana didn’t fall far from the apple tree. Growing up, she has studied many forms of martial arts including Jeet Kune Do, which is a hybrid martial art practiced and popularized by her godfather Bruce Lee, as well as Eskrima, the national sport of the Philippines.
Photo from Diana Lee InosantoPhoto from Diana Lee Inosanto
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Inosanto talked about how she and her father bonded over Star Wars after he took her and some of his students to see the film. Since then, they bought and used plastic lightsabers for training to live the Star Wars fantasy. Inosanto mentioned that the skills she has acquired since childhood and later on elevated as an adult professional are the primary reason why she got the villain role in the popular franchise.
Before playing Morgan Elsbeth, Inosanto put her name in the map of the action world through doing stunt work in numerous films and shows such as in Barb Wire (1996), and Star Trek: Enterprise (2002-2005). She has also choreographed fight scenes, including those in Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004).
Photo from Diana Lee Inosanto
Diana Lee Inosanto on Female Representation in Combat
One of the most notable things about Inosanto is the simultaneous overlapping and separation between her Hollywood career and love for martial arts. She mentioned in an interview with ABS-CBN News how even before stepping into show business, she has always paid her respects to her heritage and culture as a Filipino as it helped her become more empowered as someone in combat onscreen or off-screen.
Growing up, she iterated how she almost never saw female representation within warriors in mainstream media, but through her father’s teachings about Filipino history, she was able to see the diversity she sought for.
Photo from Diana Lee Inosanto
In the status quo, we see more examples of women in action in lieu of society becoming more progressive. Although not being the same in Inosanto’s time while maturing, she was able to see herself in the drawings on history books of women fighting both in pre-colonial and colonial times in the Philippines.
Now, it is refreshing to see Inosanto become the figure that she was looking for as a child to many young girls watching her onscreen.
“Having created a generation of crafters gives a feeling of personal accomplishment in the world of fast-paced digitalization”
– My Little Craft Corner.
Do you remember your home economics class where you learned cross-stitching and sewing? We would give our moms a list of craft materials for class, and excitement fills our bodies because it is that time of the year again when we can go to our favorite craft store.
But did you know that making crafts is not limited to the four walls of our classrooms? It can also become a hobby for those who love to create and let their imaginations run wild. Are you interested? Then it’s time to grab the materials, and we know just the place— My Little Craft Corner in SM Seaside City Cebu.
My Little Craft Corner: The Humble Beginning
Who would have thought that a woman’s passion for crafts led her to establish a beloved craft store in Cebu?
Ms. Lui Concepcion has always been interested in crafting since she was in the 4th grade. She said they made crafts for a school project, and she instantly fell in love.
During the height of the Cross-stitch craze in 1994, Ms. Concepcion franchised Stitches N’ Things and opened at SM City Mabolo. However, by 1998, cross-stitch’s popularity waned, and interest in other crafts such as knitting, crochet, bargello, free-style embroidery, candle-making, and scrapbooking intensified. So there was a need to re-brand, and Stitches N’ Things transformed to Country Crafts, still at SM City.
During all the years that Country Crafts operated, they were able to gain loyal customers who grew up to become mothers themselves and who still purchase school and personal craft needs from the store.
It is incredible that not only did Country Crafts establish itself but also formed a heartwarming connection with loyal customers since the 90s. Country Crafts then created an online alternative named My Little Craft Corner in 2020. Unfortunately, because of the pandemic and the economic crunch that followed, Country Crafts stopped operations in 2022.
But guess what? Passion for crafts never dies. They continued their online store until they finally opened My Little Craft Corner retail outlet in Talisay City. And just last October, MLCC Kiosk at SM Seaside City Cebu welcomed once again its loyal hobbyists and customers.
My Little Craft Corner: Your One-Stop Shop for Crafting Needs
My Little Craft Corner offers all the necessary supplies for crafting, even those difficult to get your hands on. Aside from that, they also give FREE lessons in selected crafts such as:
Needlecraft
Crochet, Knitting
Free Style Embroidery
Embroidery on Plastic Canvas
Paper Crafts:
Flower Making,
Paper Embroidery
Craft Box Decoration
Decoupage
General Crafts
Macrame, Friendship Bracelet, Beadwork
Learning how to craft is fun at My Little Craft Corner. In addition, their staff are ready to help you to start or continue your crafting journey.
My Little Craft Corner also offers the following:
Gift Wrapping Supplies
Handmade, imported paper
Ordinary and special ribbons
Special Glue and Adhesives
Customized Framing
Free cost estimate for all kinds of framing
Of Crafting and Digitalization
Is crafting still relevant in this generation? To that, Ms. Lui Concepcion says yes. According to her, “the digital world makes crafts better and more interesting.” She learned that through digitalization, patterns come out brighter and more precise. Through digitalization, hobbyists can learn how to do different crafts through online instructional materials. Ms. Concepcion even mentioned trending crafts, such as Diamond Painting, Amigurumi, Polymer Clay jewelry making, and more. And what is most exciting is that a good variety of patterns from all over the world are now more accessible and a lot cheaper, even for free.
“Crafting will always be there,” This is what My Little Craft Corner believes in. Because of this, My Little Craft Corner is here for Cebuanos, every Filipino who is a hobbyist, and those who are interested in crafting.
“Hobbyists will come and go, so do fads and interests, but speaking from experience, it has become a way of life, like an old friend who has a calming effect and can be re-acquainted with again and again within a lifetime.”
– Ms. Lui Concepcion, My Little Craft Corner Owner.
My Little Craft Corner makes crafting more accessible and affordable for the Cebuano Masses. With a passion and drive to influence happiness through hand-brain activities, My Little Craft Corner helps shape the crafting community of Cebu one stitch at a time.
Head to My Little Craft Corner Cebu at SM Seaside City Cebu for all your crafting needs.
Exact location: 2nd level SM Seaside, Cebu City, Cebu City, Philippines
BY BUS: You can take a MyBus ride from/to BDO Fuente Osmena. 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. The Drop-off point is at the City Wing Entrance.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “SM Seaside City Cebu” in Cebu. Parking space is available.
Is your license expired, and you still can’t find the time to renew it? Then here’s some good news for you.
Photo from Land Transportation Office – Philippines Facebook Page
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) announced the automatic extension for driver’s licenses that expired from April 3, 2023, until April 1, 2023. According to LTO Chairman Vigor Mendoza, the expired licenses will be valid for a year until April 2, 2023, or until such time that the shortage in plastic cards has been resolved.
Photo from Land Transportation Office – Philippines Facebook Page
For drivers who have expired licenses from April 3, 2023, onwards, no penalties will be given. There is no need to head to the LTO office or pay for anything since the validity of the expired licenses is “automatically” extended.
Photo from Unsplash
Moreover, the official receipt of the driver’s license can also be used as a temporary paper license, as it is stamped with “Valid as Temporary Driver’s License Until Plastic Cars are Released. The receipt should also include:
Name of the issuing office and contact personnel
Name and signature of releasing officer
Screenshot of driver’s license card (front and back) printed at the back of the OR.
If you already have your electronic driver’s license, you can access it through the LTMS portal.
You’ve probably read about the upcoming Disney Cruise in Southeast Asia. But D23 just released new details about the cruise ship that will make you say, “Oh Gee!”
Photo from Disney Cruise Line
The Disney Southeast Asia Cruise Ship is dubbed the “Adventure.” The ship will sail from Singapore and Southeast Asia, the first for the Disney Cruise Line Fleet. According to Thomas Mazloum, President of Disney Signature Experiences, the ship is being worked on at the MV Werften shipyard in Germany. The Disney Adventure is about 208,000 tons.
What to Expect Aboard the Disney Cruise Ship
Mazloum teased Disney fans on what to expect during the cruise. According to him, the cruise ship will feature Disney services, storytelling, and entertainment that Disney fans “know and love.” Storytelling includes Disney, Pixar, and Marvel stories.
Photo from Disney Cruise LinePhoto from Disney Cruise LinePhoto from Disney Cruise Line
Disney Adventure will port in the Marina Bay area for five years in 2025. Families and visitors can expect an array of gastronomical cruise activities.
However, there has yet to be an announcement about the pricing and tour packages.
Disney Treasure to Set Sail in 2024
Another Disney Cruise ship is on the way and is setting sail in 2024. Disney Treasure gives off an adventure-like vibe and will feature Grand Halls that are inspired by the fictional Agrabah in Disney’s Aladdin.
The cruise ship has 1,256 cabins and suites with interiors inspired by Aladdin, Pocahontas, Finding Nemo, Up, Luca, and Encanto. Visitors can also expect different cruise activities such as Broadway-style shows, AquaMouse, and Sarabi.
Photo from Disney Cruise LinePhoto from Disney Cruise LinePhoto from Disney Cruise LinePhoto from Disney Cruise LinePhoto from Disney Cruise Line
Disney Treasure’s voyage will be on December 21, 2024. It will sail for seven nights from Port Canaveral, Florida.
Are you excited for the first-ever Disney Cruise in Southeast Asia? I know I am!
Most of us have imagined what it’s like to have one of those road trips that end with us falling asleep in the car. This is pictured somewhere that either has a lot of greens or a body of water nearby like in coming-of-age films. We can stop imagining it now and actually do it with Punta Anchora in Badian.
Photo from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook Page
The Punta Anchora Campsite
Punta Anchora’s edge over the other beautiful existing resorts in Cebu is a campground that allows campers to park their vehicles and set up camp onsite. Cars and motorcycles alike are allowed in for people to spend the night over; visitors can explore the beach and the compelling paradise of Punta Anchora, and camp outside or in their car to rest.
Photo from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook Page
Some amenities offered by Punta Anchora are the following:
Tents and mattresses are available for rent
6 available common bathrooms for the campers to use
Kitchen Utensils
Paddle Board
Kayak
Another feature that is highly notable about Punta Anchora other than its campground is their far from ordinary set of cottages and villas. Their A-Frame Cottage looks straight out of a children’s fantasy story book, and it has such a cozy aura with its warm light, low ceiling, and small but sufficient space. Their villas, on the other hand, have impeccable interiors that are not to be forgotten – marbled tiles, well-placed plants that give the place more life, and furniture that resemble mid-century modern styles – and further provide a feeling of comfort and luxury after a long day of travel and beach activities.
Photo from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook PagePhoto from Punta Anchora Badian Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Car Entrance: ₱500 for 2 pax, additional ₱100 per extra pax
Opening hours: N/A
CAMPING RATES:
Car Camping: ₱900 for 2 pax, additional ₱250 per extra pax
Motorcycle Camping: ₱600 for 2 pax, additional ₱250 per extra pax
ROOM RATES: (or COTTAGE FEES)
A-Frame Cottage: ₱1,800 per night, good for 2 persons. 2 additional pax allowed for ₱250 per head.
Barracuda Villa: ₱4,500 per night, good for 2 persons. 4 additional pax allowed for ₱1,000 per head.
Malasugi Villa: ₱6,000 per night, good for 2-4 persons
Pawikan Villa: ₱16,500 per night, good for 4-8 persons
BY BUS: If you’re in Cebu City, you may board a bus at the South Bus Terminal that is headed to Lambug, Badian. It will take approximately 3 hours to get there for Php 120 to Php 140 depending on the bus of your choice. Once you get to Lambug, you may take a motorcycle or a tricycle to Punta Anchora. Be sure to ask the driver first if they know where the location is since it is a relatively new site.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Punta Anchora” in Badian.
