The contemporary praise and worship is returning to the Philippine stage this July 25 and 26, 2025 in Manila, SM Mall of Asia Arena, for their “Abundance Tour.”
Known for their lively hits “Turn It Up,” “Nothing Is Impossible,” “Endless Praise,” and many more, Planetshakers is set to bring a dynamic worship experience with a message of hope and inspiration. Tickets are yet to be posted as the sale period starts this coming April 3, 2025.
An Abundance of Worship
Planetshakers had been in the Philippines many times, and it can be noted that they visited the Queen City of the South just last year, February 2024 for their “Show Me Your Glory: Asia and Middle Eastern Tour” at SM Seaside Cebu Concert Grounds.
The concert featured a powerful collection of worship songs for the same album name, including “The Rock,” “We Raise,” “Worthy is the Lamb,” “Take Me Back,” “Blessed Be The Lord,” “The House,” “We Lift Up Jesus,” “Living In Me,” “Rejoice,” “The Love Of My Life,” “Supernatural Love,” “Eyes On You,” and “I Know You Can,” all celebrating faith and devotion.
So, Sugboanons, stay tuned as ticket details will be released soon, and we’ll see you at the arena!
Nestled in the heart of Carcar, Cebu, the Carcar City Museum stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and a chilling reminder of its dark past. While its exterior may suggest a quaint locale for afternoon tea, the stories within its walls tell a different tale.
Here is the horror behind the historical structure of the province…
A Beautiful Facade with a Dark History
Formerly known as the Philippine Health Service Dispensary, this two-story building witnessed horrific tortures inflicted on Filipinos during World War II by occupying Japanese forces.
At first glance, the museum’s white façade, adorned with light green filigree woodwork, exudes charm. A large, dry swimming pool lies in the back, a remnant of its days as a country club for the affluent. However, the history of this site is far from serene.
Before World War II, the building was transformed into a makeshift hospital during a cholera outbreak, later becoming the Philippine Health Service Dispensary.
When tourists walk through the museum, the large-planked dark mahogany stairs and black-and-white tiled hallways create an atmosphere of nostalgia.
This moment is interrupted only by the haunting memories embedded in its artifacts—pre-war photographs, vintage dresses, and antique furniture.
Historical Appearances & Unseen Presences
The dark history of Carcar City Museum does not end in the past as some tourists explain that they felt an inexplicable presence—a feminine energy, as if a woman were quietly observing.
This chilling account is just the beginning of its darker story.
Photo from KMJS October 28, 2019 Episode
During World War II, the dispensary became a site of unimaginable cruelty.
At the museum’s empty swimming pool, hundreds of Filipinos were bound and thrown in to drown–a grim testament to the atrocities committed here.
Local Legends & Experiences
The museum’s eerie reputation extends beyond its walls. A Cebuano traveler recounted their experience during a field trip in 2017.
Initially at ease, they felt an oppressive heaviness upon reaching the pool area, where a chilling sensation enveloped them.
Photo from Canva
Months later, they learned of the museum’s haunted history through a local television episode, confirming their unsettling feelings.
Photo from Canva
A Cultural Treasure
Despite its haunting past, the Carcar City Museum is a treasure trove of local history.
Housed in a beautifully restored building, it showcases artifacts that narrate the evolution of Carcar from its early settlements to its vibrant community today.
Visitors can freely explore the museum, with no entrance fees, though donations are encouraged for its upkeep. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide insights, ensuring an enriching educational experience.
If you want to visit the museum, you can look into the following details:
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Entrance Fee: FREE
OTHER INFORMATION
Opening Hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 8 AM to 5 PM
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Carcar Square, Carcar City, Cebu
By Commute: Carcar City is situated 40 kilometers south of Cebu City and can be reached in about an hour by public bus from the South Bus Terminal. Simply board any southbound bus heading to Oslob or Barili and request the driver or conductor to let you off at the junction near the church plaza, just before the Carcar Rotunda. For short trips around town, tricycle rides are available.
By Car: If you’re traveling by car, Carcar City is approximately 40 kilometers south of Cebu City, making for a straightforward drive that typically takes about an hour. You can take the Cebu South Road. Just follow the signs to Carcar, and once you arrive, parking is available near the church plaza and the Carcar Rotunda.
As you wander through its halls, you may feel the weight of history pressing down, reminding you of the lives lived and lost within its walls.
Whether you’re drawn by curiosity or a thirst for knowledge, this haunted site promises an unforgettable experience that lingers long after you leave.
Cebu’s art scene is a living, breathing canvas–one that thrives in the hands of artists who draw inspiration from everyday life, nostalgia, and the rich cultural fabric of the island.
Cebuano creatives are shaping a movement that is both uniquely local and universally resonant.
More than just making art, these artists are storytellers, weaving Cebuano identity into their works.
But beyond the art itself lies a shared vision of fostering a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable creative community for both emerging and seasoned artists.
What does it mean to create art in Cebu today? Through the perspectives of these artists, we explore the heart of the city’s growing art movement, the struggles they face, and the hopes they carry for the future.
Art as a Reflection of Identity
For Bee and Sky of Skybuzz Express, art is a way to spread joy. Inspired by nature, fandoms, and personal moments, Bee infuses a playful, upbeat energy into their works. Meanwhile, Sky’s love for colorful palettes and cute everyday things translates into merchandise that resonates with others.
Their approach is simple but powerful–using Cebuano language and humor to create art that feels familiar and relatable.
Whether through stickers or prints, their goal remains the same: to make people happy and leave them with a smile.
Similarly, SAFAD Student Council’s collaboration with Suite Hue reflects the deep connection between art, community, and identity.
Their Valentine’s Day event sparked a creative synergy that led to more projects celebrating student individuality. From designing mascots inspired by the campus cats to crafting budget-friendly stickers that serve as conversation starters, their work embodies the intersection of art and student life.
It’s about fostering a sense of belonging–one that extends beyond the classroom and into a shared creative space.
Art as a Personal and Political Statement
For Peony on Fire, art began as a deeply personal endeavor, evolving from Disney-inspired aesthetics to explicit Cebuano themes.
Over time, their work took on a more introspective tone, tackling themes of identity, womanhood, and social issues. While political art remains a challenge, Peony believes in starting with personal narratives—stories that one day may grow into larger conversations about society.
Through her work, she hopes to empower younger artists, encouraging them to find their voice and use art as a medium for self-expression and advocacy.
Bastinuod takes a different approach by using pop art as a means of cultural reclamation. Inspired by comic-style visuals, their work carries heavy themes but remains engaging and accessible.
They challenge the notion that Filipino aesthetics are outdated or unrefined by injecting local elements into a genre often dominated by Western influences.
For them, embracing Cebuano culture through art is not just a choice–it’s a statement of pride and a call to action for others to do the same.
Art as an Ever-Growing Movement
Leanderthal, a pop surrealist sculptor and digital illustrator, highlights the need for more physical exhibition spaces in Cebu. While online platforms provide exposure, nothing compares to the experience of seeing an artwork in person.
His maximalist compositions, filled with intricate details and layered meanings, invite viewers to engage with his work beyond a single glance. He envisions a Cebu where emerging artists have access to spaces that allow their creativity to flourish, making art more visible and accessible to the community.
Despite their unique styles and inspirations, all these artists share a common hope: to see Cebu’s art scene grow beyond its current limitations.
They dream of a future where Cebuano art is not just a niche but a recognized and celebrated part of the larger creative industry.
From con-goers to collectors, they hope to see more people supporting local artists–not just as consumers but as active participants in the movement.
Looking Forward: The Future of Cebuano Art
The road ahead is not without challenges. From the struggle of finding exhibition spaces to the ongoing battle of making art sustainable, Cebuano artists continue to push forward, driven by their love for their craft and community.
Yet, despite the roadblocks, there is an undeniable momentum fueled by passion, collaboration, and a deep-rooted pride in being Cebuano.
In Cebu’s art scene, Cebuano artists are carving out a space where their voices can be heard and their visions can thrive.
As this creative movement grows, one thing remains certain: Cebu’s art scene is here to stay, and it’s only getting started.
Do you still remember those days that people would go to any mall to buy froyos, which was the best alternative option, and is way more tasty and customizable, a healthy dessert. It sure does bring us back down memory lane.
BRRRR, is it cold in here or what? The first froyo shop on the list is 18 Degrees, yes you heard it right Degrees from the temperature and a required freezing point for yogurts to achieve its creamy and light consistency, wow so soft. You can choose 32 toppings for your yogurt and the shop also features the do-it-yourself. They also offer a wide array of frozen snacks and other desserts. The shop was established in 2020, owned by Cebuans. A naturally sweetened, fat-free, and gluten-free yogurt in Talamban.
Exact Location: The Verve Point, Talamban, Cebu City
By Commute: You can ride a 13C or 13B Jeepney at the PAG-IBIG Fund Office. Get off at the Skin Doctors Clinic. They’re in the same building and your location is near the University of San Carlos- Talamban Campus.
By Car: Utilizing your Waze or Google Maps, please set your destination to 18 Degrees at Gov. M. Cuenco, Banilad. There is ample parking.
Eba! Eba! Naa na ang imong gi order nga prutas gikan kang Adan. Don’t worry, the fruits are not forbidden. Prutasan ni Adan is known for having the best froyo in the city and offers a selection of ready-made ice cream flavors, and it introduces new varieties of flavors every month. Prutasan ni Adan offers a variety of fresh fruits such as mangoes and strawberries. The shop has two branches, Banilad Town Center and Tancor Residences in Barangay Kasambagan. And you can also order it in Grab Food.
Exact Location: Tancor 1 residences Gen Lim St, Villa Aurora Kasambagan, Cebu City
By Commute: You can ride a 13C jeepney at Ayala heading to Kasambagan. Tell the driver that you are going to Tancor residences for Prutasan ni Adan.
By Car: Utilize Waze or Google Maps, set your destination to Prutasan ni Adan or Tancor Residences. Parking spots are available.
Kuku by Don Machiattos
A healthy treat with an affordable price. Don Macchiatos is a small coffee hub that was known for its affordable price and high-quality coffee. Its success has spawned several business, which includes Kuku Frozen Yogurt, a yogurt shop that is also selling high-quality yogurts with reasonable prices. The froyo shop is notable because of their matcha-flavored yogurt and claims that it is 100% authentic. Hmmm, thinking about it makes me want to try Kuku by Don Mac.
Exact Location: MH Aznar Street Sambag 2 Urgello, Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: You can ride a jeepney going to Urgello. Kuku is just a walking distance from the Don Macchiatos office in Urgello.
By Car: Using Waze or Google Maps, please set your destination to Don Macchiatos Office. Kuku is just a walking distance away from the Don Macchiattos.
I think I’ll take yogurt neat, not too sweet, not too sour, just right. This Yogurt House garnered attention as the best yogurt shop in Cebu City. Their soft serve yogurt has a balanced flavor, not too sweet and not too sour. They offer various toppings which blend well in any froyo.
TAH-MEE Yummy Yogurt for my TUMMY! Is yummy for the tummy, they offer a healthy variety of fresh toppings, delightful crunches and mouth-watering syrups. Their unique “Double The Froyo Forever” is a strategy that allows customers to enjoy more yogurt for less, making it a favorite among many. So if you are in the mood for a refreshingly healthy treat, Tah-Mee Frozen Yogurt is worth a visit! TAH-MEE makes my tummy Hungry!
Exact Location: 4th Floor , New Wing, ayala center cebu, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
By Taxi/Grab: The most convenient way is to take a taxi or book a Grab ride. Just input the destination as “Tah-Mee Frozen Yogurt” and you’ll be on your way.
By Jeepney: You can take a jeepney Ayala Center Cebu, as Tah-Mee has branches in both locations. Once you arrive at the mall, you can easily find the Tah-Mee Frozen Yogurt shop.
By Bus: If you prefer taking a bus, you can look for routes that pass by SM City Cebu or Ayala Center Cebu. These malls are popular landmarks, so most buses will have stops there.
Ayaw gyud ko payaw-ya-wa kay di gyud ko mo undang og yaw-yaw sa kalami sa IlaoIlao. IlaoIlao pronounced as yao yao is a Spanish frozen yogurt franchise. IlaoIlao offers various delicious toppings and sauces that surely can make you gobble the rich and healthy flavors.
Exact Location: Upper Ground Floor, SM City Cebu, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
By Car or Taxi: The fastest and most convenient way is to take a car or taxi. The ride takes about 8-9 minutes.
By Bus: You can take a taxi to Cebu Home Builders N. Bacalso, then transfer to a bus heading to SM Seaside Terminal. This option takes approximately 25-29 minutes.
Same Yogurts, Different Days, times may change, but there are a lot of new trendy dessert shops and bars that are showing up everywhere.
Drag excellence takes center stage as Precious Paula Nicole, Minty Fresh, Shewarma, and more light up the stage in this sizzling summer tour!
Expect a night of fierce performances, stunning looks, and nonstop entertainment.
Location: Seda Ayala Center
DM Beyond Limits Events Production for tickets: 09759736844
April 29: WERQ The World 2025
Ready to slay your day away, RuPaul’s Drag Race stars are coming to Cebu for the ultimate drag extravaganza!
Hosted by Sasha Velour and featuring top drag queens like Jaida Essence Hall and Jorgeous, this show is a must-see for fans of glitz, glamour, and jaw-dropping performances.
Hearing this name back in 2012 made people run for their lives out of fear of a tsunami.
This is just one of the many times when Cebuanos thought it was the end of their time on Earth.
Here are the monumental moments when Cebu “survived” the end of the world.
February 2012: Chona Mae or Tsunami?
This was one of those classic Facebook chain messages that spread like wildfire.
People thought it was some kind of prophecy or warning, but in reality, it was just another case of internet hysteria.
This fake news circulated around Facebook along the lines of “mag-ampo mo, kay muabot na si Chona Mae ug kataposan na sa kalibutan!”
Photo from Canva
The next time you believe these posts, make sure to check their source!
Is there proof? Any scientific explanation? If none, then that’s your sign to keep calm.
December 2012: Maya Apocalypse Prediction
Who could forget this one? The whole world was on edge because of misinterpretations of the Mayan calendar.
Photo from Canva
People thought that the world was supposed to “end” in 2012 because of this.
In Cebu, some people even prepared survival kits, but in the end, we just ended up having a normal day.
Photo from Canva
Some Cebuanos feasted on some lechon with a “survival party” from this hoax information.
2020-2023: COVID-19 Pandemic
Remember the face masks and face shields, the vaccines, and the lockdowns?
Photo from Canva
Well, hopefully, you got vaccinated even if the world did not end when the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic spread around the world.
From ECQs and checkpoints to endless swab tests and “ayaw’g gawas kung dili importante,” this truly felt like the end of the world for many.
Despite surviving this era, people were still, and continuously, affected by the economic decline and healthcare issues until today.
Photo from Canva
Asteroid Impact in 2032?
After surviving three doomsdays, the Earth is about to allegedly get hit by another one.
Scientists are monitoring Asteroid YR4, but as with most asteroid threats–there’s a high chance it won’t land.
Photo from Canva
This is still something people love to speculate about, Cebuanos especially.
There are seven years to go before this theory gets officially debunked, but the science community continues to convince the people that there is nothing to worry about.
Congratulations to Cebu for surviving until now! There are still many years to go–and just like the COVID-19 pandemic, Cebuanos must fight against the disinformation epidemic.
How about you, are there any “end of the world” moments you encountered? Share them down below!
The 19th Congress passed a bill promoting the rights of ambulant vendors in the country during its Third Regular Session last February 3.
Entitled “An Act Providing for the Rights of Informal Ambulant Vendors,” the bill seeks to recognize the informal sector by ensuring measures to protect their livelihood.
The sector includes individuals who “sell goods or offer non-professional services without a fixed business location.”
Passage of House Bill No. 11337 establishes key policies in the recognition, promotion, and protection of ambulant vendors.
The “Magna Carta for Informal Ambulant Vendors” highlights the following rights:
Right to renewal of registration as informal ambulant vendors for such designated vending place, subject to said person’s continued qualification as an informal ambulant vendor;
Right to security of tenure in the designated vending place as assigned by the concerned LGU;
Right to be recognized in other LGUs upon securing a prior certificate from the other LGU; and
Right to social protection and safety nets, labor market programs, and social welfare interventions such as social security, health care, and insurance.
These rights are enjoyed by vendors registered with the local government depending on the city, municipality, or barangay where they are vending or intend to vend within its territorial jurisdiction.
Safety Measures
House Bill No. 11337 also safeguards informal ambulant vendors from unfair eviction or the demolition of their stalls without due process.
When relocation is required, local governments are obligated to offer temporary vending spaces.
Additionally, the bill mandates prior consultations and discussions–with authorities, informal ambulant vendors, police, and community members before any vending area is designated.
The legislation also “protects informal ambulant vendors from eviction without due process, and if no designated site is available, local governments must provide a temporary vending area.”
Opposition and Criticism
Despite its goals, other members of the House of Representatives opposed the bill’s provisions.
Gabriela Women’s Party Representative Arlene Brosas shared that the measures are vague and general in terms of “specific interventions, programs, and safety nets.”
The Congresswoman highlighted that such gaps are rooted in the lack of genuine representation from the affected sector.
Moreover, Brosas expressed that the registration process imposed on ambulant vendors may lead to displacement and loss of livelihood.
House Bill No. 11337 must then bridge this limitation with the proper implementation of the policies, including the movement of vendors.
This ensures that the ambulant vendors are not only recognized but also treated humanely–from prior notice and due process to safe relocation.
In Cebu, the policies under the bill may help alleviate the issues faced by market vendors and urban poor members once enacted properly.
This will only be made possible once proper consultations and discussions are done with the sector.
The vending industry, especially the informal ambulant vendors, can look forward to its official enactment once it passes the readings under the Second House, the Conference Committee, the authentication from the Speaker and Senate President, and the approval of the President.
Cebu is fast becoming a literary hub, attracting authors and thought leaders eager to engage with a vibrant community of readers and changemakers.
With its dynamic mix of students, academics, and book enthusiasts, the city provides a unique opportunity for authors to connect, inspire, and foster meaningful conversations.
This was proven by the recent book tour of the renowned Filipino lawyer, academic, and environmental policy expert Dean Tony La Viña.
By sharing his journey through writing, he encourages discourse on important national and personal narratives.
This only opens more doors for authors like Dean Tony to share their stories from Cebu to the world!
Cebu as a Prime Destination for Book Tours
Hosting book tours in Cebu allows authors to tap into an audience that values intellectual discussions, advocacy, and storytelling.
From universities like the University of the Philippines Cebu and the University of San Carlos to independent bookstores and cultural spaces, the city offers numerous venues where authors can engage directly with readers.
These events provide an opportunity to share insights, spark debates, and encourage a love for literature.
Lessons from “Ransomed by Love” in Cebu
A prime example of a successful book tour in Cebu is Dean Tony La Viña’s visit for “Ransomed by Love”.
Dean Tony is not only a respected lawyer and advocate but also a profound storyteller who uses literature as a means to inspire and educate.
His recent stop at a prestigious Cebu university highlighted the power of storytelling in shaping perspectives and inspiring change.
Events like these show that Cebu has the capacity to host intimate, impactful discussions where authors and readers connect beyond the pages of a book.
Opportunities for Authors and Readers
For authors, Cebu offers a platform to build a following, engage with a diverse audience, and amplify important messages.
Whether promoting a memoir, a novel, or an academic work, a book tour in Cebu allows writers to interact with students, scholars, and literature enthusiasts who are eager to listen, question, and reflect.
For readers, these events provide a rare opportunity to meet authors and immerse themselves in discussions that enrich their perspectives.
It’s a chance to be part of a growing literary movement that values knowledge and meaningful dialogue.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Book Tours in Cebu
With the success of recent book tours, Cebu is proving itself to be more than just a tourist destination–it is a thriving intellectual and literary hub.
As more authors recognize the value of engaging with the Cebuano audience, the city is poised to host even more inspiring literary events in the future.
Whether you are an author looking to share your story or a reader eager to participate in enriching discussions, Cebu offers endless opportunities to celebrate literature and ideas.
Keep an eye out for upcoming book tours and be part of this exciting literary movement!
How about you, which author are you most excited to see in Cebu?
Have you ever seen people walking around with crosses painted on their forehead? This happens at least once in a year for Christians.
Photo from Annika Gordon/Unsplash
Receiving ashes on one’s forehead is a tradition in time for the beginning of the Lenten season–theannual Ash Wednesday.
Every year, this day symbolizes the first day of the liturgical season of Lent. This falls six and a half weeks before Easter in preparation of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday.
This 2025, Ash Wednesday falls on March 5! Before that day comes, here are important things you need to know before starting with your Lenten journey.
Origin and Biblical Significance
Did you know that Ash Wednesday dates back 11 centuries ago? While its history is not clear, the tradition has been practiced way earlier with the ancient Hebrew custom of wearing sackcloth and putting on ashes to repent.
The ashes are an important part of the Lenten journey, especially since it symbolizes death and repentance.
Ashes are said to equate to dust, while human flesh is composed of dust as mentioned in the Book of Genesis from the Holy Bible. Thus, this symbolism is akin to the return of human beings to dust after death.
Photo from Canva
Ultimately, the tradition focuses on human mortality and sinfulness–an opportunity for Christians to enter the Lenten season with repentance in practice.
Modern Lenten Traditions
The tradition of receiving ashes persisted until today with modern Churches preparing ashes out of palm branches.
Photo from Joey Argawanon
These come from the previous Palm Sunday when priests bless the palms brought by the churchgoers.
The palms are a significant reference to Jesus’ entry to Jerusalem: onlookers filling His pathway with palm branches.
Photo from Canva
Aside from the cross on one’s forehead, Christians also practice fasting and abstinence. What do these practices entail, you may ask?
Photo from Canva
These are the specific details of the acts of penance:
FASTING PRACTICES
For Roman Catholics, fasting is only advised for those ages 18 to 59.
Fasting with only one full meal and two smaller meals.
Snacking while fasting is allowed, but only if it is not a full meal.
Exemptions are made for those with special needs and restrictions.
ABSTINENCE PRACTICES
Young Catholics ages 14 and older must abstain from eating meat.
Abstinence is done on Ash Wednesday and Fridays of Lent until Good Friday.
Food to be abstained include meat, wine, oil, and dairy products.
Food allowed includes fish and other non-meat alternatives available.
Other forms of abstinence include giving up other food, distractions, and addictions.
The practices outlined above may help with physical health, but beyond that, fasting and abstinence is about creating space and relying on God instead of earthly comforts.
Photo from Canva
At the end of this journey, the acts of penance strengthen faith and discipline. This leads to a deepened relationship with God and heightened awareness of His presence.
Lenten Season Practices
In a predominantly Catholic country, most Filipinos and Cebuanos practice Lent. How about other Christian denominations and religions?
Photo from Canva
Well, here’s the thing! Aside from Catholics, other denominations like the Orthodox, Anglican Church, and Episcopal Church also observe Lent.
Even though Lent is not named nor observed in the Holy Bible, this journey is practiced by Christians who believe in repentance and humility.
This is primarily why Lenten practices persist–the Scripture calls for a life of worship and self-discipline that is most exemplified during the Lenten season.
By the end of the Lenten season, believers are said to experience spiritual renewal.
This is not only a beginning of change but an ongoing mission to transform the Good News into good deeds towards one another.
The Church leaves with a message for Christians to ponder upon: “Remember that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return.”
