Tired of counting sheep? This sleep method might just do the trick to help you fall asleep.
Photo from Unsplash
Let’s be real, unless we are absolutely exhausted, falling asleep can be difficult. Some of us might have a lot on our minds that prohibit us from sleeping. Moreover, there are also times that our body is tired, but our brain is wide awake.
You’ve tried lullabies, watching boring movies, and other means, yet you are still wide awake; what more can you do? Well, you can try the Military Sleep Method with a guaranteed 96% success rate.
Military Sleep Method Explained
No, you won’t be required to do Military exercises for this one.
Photo from Unsplash
According to some sources, the Military Sleep Method was developed by the US Military to help tired soldiers to get a good night’s sleep. However, the method is also mentioned in the book Relax and Win: Championship Performance, published in 1981.
The method recently went viral after uploaders claimed they could sleep in under 2 minutes. But does it work? The US military claims that it works 96% of the time to people who try it.
How to do the Military Sleep Method:
Relax your face, starting with your forehead, and work your way down
Relax your shoulder and hands as you drop them.
Remember to keep your breathing nice and steady.
Exhale and enable your chest to relax.
Relax your legs, starting with the right thigh, and work your way down to the calf and ankle. Do the same to the left leg.
Clear your mind and imagine you are somewhere peaceful or quiet. If your mind wanders, tell yourself, “Don’t think” for 10 seconds.
Photo from Unsplash
We all want to do something to be able to sleep immediately. Moreover, trying out the Military Sleep Method won’t hurt. Now that you know how to do it, it’s time to say good night and sweet dreams.
If you believe diet sodas are healthier than regular ones, you should rethink your life choices.
Photo from Unsplash
Soft drinks or sodas are the ultimate guilty pleasures. The feeling of cold, sweet, and caffeinated drinks is one of the best, especially on a hot day. Sodas mean sugar and an excess amount of sugar. Because of this, people turn towards diets or sugar-free products.
But then again, sugar-free does not mean healthy, especially now that one ingredient is declared a “possible” carcinogenic.
Aspartame Declared as Possible Carcinogenic
According to the study by the Food and Agriculture Organization Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the World Health Organization, aspartame, which is an artificial sweetener used as an alternative to sugar, is a “possible” carcinogenic ingredient.
Photo from Unsplash
When we say carcinogenic, it means it can cause cancer. Aside from sodas, Aspartame is also used for chewing gum, ice cream, and other diet drinks. Moreover, Aspartame can possibly cause hepatocellular carcinoma, a form of liver cancer.
“Considering the fact that there’s limited evidence for a single type of cancer in humans, plus limited evidence in the animal studies [and] the mechanistic studies, in our view, this is really more of a call to the research committee to try to better clarify and understand the carcinogenic hazard that may or may not be posed of aspartame consumption.”
Even if there is a lack of evidence as of this time, dieticians warn that it is possible when Aspartame is regularly consumed.
The World Health Organization also released a limit on aspartame consumption. If your weight is 70kg, nine to 14 sugar-free drinks are still acceptable, given that each can contain 200 to 300 milligrams of aspartame.
Photo from Unsplash
Aside from possibly resulting in cancer, too much consumption of products with aspartame can lead to kidney stones, diabetes, and many more sicknesses.
Giving into temptation and cravings is okay. However, going overboard with sweets, artificial flavorings, and sweeteners does more harm than good. If you have reached the end of this article, let this remind you to skip the diet sodas and drink water.
The Supreme Court affirmed the dismissal of the ₱1-B Ill-gotten Wealth case against the late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos, his wife Imelda Marcos, and cronies. The Marcoses used the cronies to acquire and conceal their ill-gotten wealth.
Photo from CineDiaz/Unico Entertainment
The ruling was made on March 29. However, the official statement was released on Wednesday, July 19, 2023. The September 2019 decision of the Sandigbayan to dismiss the case filed by the Presidential Commission on Good Government was affirmed by the high court. Moreover, the decision was due to lack of evidence.
“While it is truly disappointing that nothing has come of this case despite the lapse of 36 years spent in litigation, the Court agrees with the Sandigbayan that petitioner’s evidence is insufficient to support the allegations of its Expended Complaint by a preponderance of evidence,” the Supreme Court wrote.
The PCGG only submitted photocopies and they did not have proof of the original documents. Because of this, the Best Evidence Rule was violated.
Photo from CineDiaz/Unico Entertainment
What You Need to Know about the Case
The case was filed by the Presidential Commision on Good Government in 1987. By filing the case, the petitioners aimed to recover the ill-gotten wealth acquired by the late Ferdinand Marcos Sr., his wife Imelda, and their cronies such as Bienvenido Tantoco Sr., Bienvenido Tantoco Jr., estate of Gliceria Tantoco and Dominador Santiago.
The alleged ill-gotten wealth is made up of ₱609.27 million share stocks and ₱443.05 million for real properties. The PCGG also required the Marcoses and the cronies to pay temperate damages, nominal damages, and other expenses required to push through with the legal proceedings.
Would you rather stay by a fool’s side than lay by the poolside? Yup, that’s what we thought. Never trade these summer days at Fazenda de Faburada Ecofarm and Mountain Resort!
Photo from Jo Ian of The Weekend Photographer
This picturesque spot by the mountains of Cebu offers a sweet escape from all the bitter chaos of life. With its breathtaking views and lush greenery, this hidden gem is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those in search of peace and calm.
A Retreat in Nature’s Embrace
The resort is situated in Ronda, Cebu, surrounded by the province’s verdant hills and stunning landscapes. Their commitment to preserving the environment is evident throughout their grounds, as it blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings.
Accommodation options range from cozy cottages to spacious villas, all designed to provide guests with absolute comfort. Wake up to the melodious sounds of chirping birds and breathe in the crisp mountain air as you step onto your private balcony, which offers panoramic views of the beautiful countryside.
Photo from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Fazenda de Faburada Ecofarm and Mountain Resort Facebook PagePhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend Photographer
Outdoor Adventures and Relaxation
For those who love camping, you may bring your own tent and even enjoy the warmth of a bonfire and s’mores upon request!
Aside from that, the resort’s restaurant serves delectable dishes for hearty meals that you’ll surely love. And if you’re planning to have an event atop the mountains, they’d be glad to host you, too.
Satisfy your tropical desires and fill your summer album at Fazenda de Faburada Ecofarm and Mountain Resort, where you’ll think to yourself, “What a wonderful world!”
Photo from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend PhotographerPhoto from Jo Ian of The Weekend Photographer
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
Pool Side Room 1: P3000 per night
Pool Side Room 2: P3000 per night
Good for 2 persons
1 Queen-size Bed
Hot & Cold Shower
Air Conditioned
Free Wifi
Unlimited Use of Pool and other amenities
Complimentary Breakfast for 2
Main House Room 1: P5000 per night
Main House Room 2: P5000 per night
Main House Room 3: P5000 per night
Good for 6 persons
3 Queen-size Beds
Air Conditioned
Free Wifi
Unlimited Use of Pool and other amenities
DAY USE: P150 per person (P50 Consumable)
Free use of huts, tables, chairs, dirty kitchen, & other free amenities from 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
DAY USE + Infinity Pool: P250 per person
Unlimited use of Infinity Pool
Free use of huts, tables, chairs, dirty kitchen, & other free amenities from 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
CAMPING & OVERNIGHT: P500 per person
Bring your own tent
Use of open sleeping areas (Roofed)
Use of all FREE amenities
Inclusive of comforter/mattress, sheets, towel, beddings & toiletries
Checkout Time: 12:00 PM
Bonfire can be requested. Fire wood, skewered raw hotdog, marshmallow, etc. can be ordered.
The Philippine Trogon, also known as the Ibong Adarna, is an elusive bird that holds a significant place in Filipino folklore and stands as a symbol of beauty and mystery.
In a remarkable turn of events, avid birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts were treated to a rare sighting of the elusive bird, in the lush forests of Mindanao, surrounding Mount Apo.
Photo from DENR Davao Facebook Page
Its appearance has sparked excitement among researchers, conservationists, and the local community, shedding light on the importance of protecting the rich biodiversity that thrives in the region.
Let’s take a look at why this avian species has captured the hearts of both locals and visitors to the archipelago.
Physical Characteristics
The Philippine Trogon is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 29 to 30 centimeters in length. It possesses a unique and striking appearance, with a combination of vivid colors that make it easily distinguishable.
Its back is brown, and its wings display barred patterns. It has a white undertail, a bill that is yellow with a blue base, and bare skin around the eye that is blue in color. The female of this species exhibits mustard-yellow underparts and an olive-brown head, while the male, with its remarkable appearance, showcases a black head, a pink chest, and a red belly. Unmistakable.
In Its Element
This beautiful species is endemic to the Philippines, meaning it is found exclusively in this Southeast Asian country. Its natural habitat includes primary and secondary forests, particularly those in lowland and montane areas.
Photo from DENR Davao Facebook Page
According to DENR, the bird is known to inhabit the vicinity of a dormant stratovolcano situated in the Southern Mindanao region. They can be found residing in the deeper parts of our forests, contentedly avoiding human presence.
Behavior and Diet
They are predominantly solitary and secretive birds, often remaining hidden among dense foliage. They have a slow and deliberate flight pattern, and when perched, they remain still for extended periods, making them challenging to spot.
They’re most active during the early morning and late afternoon, when they actively hunt for their preferred diet of insects, including beetles, ants, and caterpillars.
Cultural Significance
The Philippine Trogon holds a prominent place in Filipino folklore and literature. It is famously known as the Ibong Adarna, which inspired a popular epic poem of the same name.
In the story, the Ibong Adarna possesses magical qualities, including the ability to sing healing melodies that can cure any ailment. Its beautiful song is said to have the power to lull people to sleep or turn them into stone. This tale has been passed down through generations, serving as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of virtue.
Photo from DENR Davao Facebook Page
This recent rare encounter serves as a reminder of the fragility of our natural world and the importance of preserving the habitats that support extraordinary species like the Ibong Adarna.
As the local community and conservation organizations join forces, there is hope that these efforts will contribute to the long-term survival of this majestic bird and the flourishing ecosystems it calls home.
President Emmanuel Macron of France confirmed Jane Birkin’s death, calling her “a French icon” in a tweet. Birkin had been found dead at her home, as reported by French media. According to reports, the cause of death is her long battle with breast cancer.
Photo from Reporters Associes/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images
Jane Birkin, a British-born actress, and singer, died in Paris at the age of 76. She was born in London in December 1946, the daughter of British actress Judy Campbell and Royal Navy commander David Birkin, and had her debut on stage at the age of 17. After moving to Paris to work on the film Slogan, the actress found fame — and a lifelong residence — in France.
Photo from Loic Venance/AFP/Getty Images
She met the film’s star, French actor and singer-songwriter Serge Gainsbourg, on the set of the 1968 film, and they were together for 12 years before his death in 1991. During this time, Hermes CEO Jean-Louis Dumas noticed her struggling with another suitcase on a flight to London, spilling the contents all over the floor, as a result, Dumas created a bag inspired by her. Her contribution to the creation of the Birkin bag, one of fashion’s most enduring and iconic accessories, established her as a household celebrity. The Birkin bag was first introduced in 1984.
Birkin and Gainsbourg collaborated on a collaboration record named “Jane Birkin/Serge Gainsbourg” in 1969, which includes the controversially explicit song “Je t’aime… moi non plus,” and Birkin also starred in Gainsbourg’s 1976 film of the same name.
Birkin continued her artistic endeavors as an actor and singer after their separation in 1980. She has released numerous solo albums and has acted in films such as “Death on the Nile” and “Evil Under the Sun.”
Photo from Reg Lancaster/Hulton Archive/Getty ImagesPhoto from Reg Lancaster/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Birkin, who had lived in Paris since the late 1960s, had health issues in recent years. She had a stroke in September 2021 and had to cancel a series of concerts in March 2022 after injuring her shoulder.
IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL. With its fleet of trucks, Lalamove can deliver all kinds of items at a low cost, making them a reliable partner for businesses and users across the island of Cebu.
For nearly four years, on-demand delivery platform Lalamove has been a reliable delivery partner for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and non-corporate users in the island of Cebu. With its fast, simple and affordable delivery solutions and technologies, Lalamove has provided credible service to thousands of Cebuanos.
Kicking things up a notch in the island’s logistics scene, Lalamove brings its users the widest delivery coverage in Cebu, encompassing the entire island, for those who need reliable and affordable services for their bulk business delivery needs and shipments. Keeping the promise of prompt and hassle-free deliveries, the island-wide coverage of truck deliveries is now serviceable to more than 20 areas in Cebu including Argao, Boljoon, Oslob, and Santander in addition to Balamban, Carcar, Cebu City, Consolacion, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, Compostela, Liloan, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Naga, Pinamujangan, San Fernando, Talisay, Toledo, Cordova, Bogo, and Daanbantayan.
As several businesses continue to reach more Cebuanos, Lalamove sustains in offering a wide range of options to entrepreneurs with cost-efficient and extensive delivery services, which include motorcycle, sedan, MPV, and truck deliveries for businesses that need to transport bulk orders and large items.
Here are three reasons why Cebuano businesses should book Lalamove’s 4-wheeler to 6-wheeler truck delivery services.
Island-wide delivery services
Since launching their services in Cebu in 2018, Lalamove has continuously expanded its operations across the island. It now operates and fulfills same-day deliveries in all 16 towns and cities in the province, including Balamban, Carcar, Cebu City, Compostela, Consolacion, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, Liloan, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Naga, Pinamungajan, San Fernando, Talisay, Toledo, and Cordova. It also accepts inter-island deliveries.
Newly launched vehicle options in Cebu to suit any kind of business
Lalamove has a variety of vehicle options to cater to every business’ needs, may it be perishable goods, heavy equipment or large furniture. Their fleet of small and big haulers include 600kg/multicabs, 800kg, and 2,000kg pickup trucks, 1,000kg, 2,000kg aluminum trucks, as well as newly-launched 800kg pick-up vehicles, 6-wheel 3,000 closed van trucks and 7,000kg forward trucks, and a soon-to-be-launched 2,000kg pick up truck.
Affordable services to empower MSMEs
Lalamove offers low and unparalleled rates for its delivery services with base fares as low as P200 for pickup trucks, P280 for L300, P1,450 for 2,000kg aluminum trucks, and P1,900 to P4,800 for 6-wheel trucks. This gives businesses an edge by helping them save on costs while still fulfilling orders on time and with great care.
“Lalamove’s commitment to supporting and elevating business services and operations never stops. Our continuous expansion and vast fleet option provisions shows the on-demand delivery service platform’s dedication to progress and bringing MSMEs alongside the journey with us,”
SAID LALAMOVE PHILIPPINES’ MANAGING DIRECTOR, DJON NACARIO.
Move your business with Lalamove’s affordable truck delivery services. To learn more and sign up as a business partner, email [email protected] or contact 255-5252. For more information and updates, visit www.lalamove.com/en-ph/, download the Lalamove app or follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTokaccounts.
Digital banking has witnessed significant growth in the Philippines, revolutionizing the way people manage their finances. Offering convenience, accessibility, and competitive interest rates, digital banks have emerged as viable alternatives to traditional banking institutions.
These digital banks offer at least 2% interest rate versus traditional banks’ under 0.5%, making digital banks the best place to park your savings and earn a bit more. Perhaps every Peso counts, right?
Here’s a comprehensive list of the top 10 digital banks in the Philippines, with competitive interest rates.
1. Maybank Philippines
Maybank Philippines is a well-established digital bank that offers competitive interest rates on its savings accounts. The bank’s user-friendly mobile app and extensive branch network make it a popular choice among customers.
The interest rate offered by Maybank Philippines is dependent on your account balance. For balances up to PHP500,000, you can enjoy an annual interest rate of 8%. However, for balances exceeding PHP500,000, the interest rate drops to 0.25% per annum.
Photo from Maybank Philippines
2. GOTyme Bank
GoTyme Bank presents a 5% per annum interest rate through Go Save, accompanied by the tagline, “No missions. No limits. Just simple, secure, and sustainable savings.”
Go Save offers two automation tools for faster savings. Auto-save transfers funds to your savings account automatically on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Save the Change rounds up transactions made with your GoTyme Bank Visa debit card to the nearest PHP 10 or PHP 100, depositing the extra amount into your Go Save account.
Photo from GOTyme Bank Facebook Page
3. CIMB
CIMB Bank offers an impressive interest rate on their savings account, which is higher than most traditional banks. Their digital platform provides a seamless banking experience, allowing customers to easily manage their accounts and perform transactions.
Customers who already have an UpSave or GSave account and maintain an average daily balance (ADB) of PHP 200,000 or higher are eligible for a special interest rate offer of 6% per annum.
Photo from CIMB Bank
4. Netbank
Netbank offers varying interest rates based on the account opening date. Accounts opened between December 21, 2022, and January 17, 2023, enjoy a fixed interest rate of 6.5% per annum until August 2023, regardless of market conditions. For accounts opened on or after March 24, 2023, or existing accounts not earning the 6.5% interest rate, a 4% interest rate per annum applies to the balance.
Notably, Netbank sets itself apart from other banks by not imposing a rate cap on its savings accounts. This means that the interest rate on your account can fluctuate based on prevailing market conditions, allowing for potential increases or decreases.
Photo from Netbank Facebook Page
5. Tonik
Tonik Digital Bank stands out for its compelling interest rates and excellent customer service. Its fully digital banking platform offers savings accounts with attractive rates, making it a reliable option for savers.
By default, Tonik savings account offers 1% per annum interest rate. However, Tonik introduces “Stashes,” similar to Maya Goals, with an attractive 4% per annum interest rate for individual stashes where users can create up to five stashes and share them with friends or family through a group stash. The group stash, involving at least two participants and the stash owner, earns an even higher interest rate of up to 4.5% per annum.
Photo from Tonik
6. Maya Goals
Maya Goals in the Maya app allows you to allocate funds for specific aspirations such as a new car or house. You can create up to 5 goal accounts with a guaranteed competitive interest rate of 6% per annum on balances up to PHP 1 million. Balances over PHP 1 million do not earn interest.
To be eligible for the 6% interest rate, you must perform a monthly transaction with your Maya account. Transactions can include money transfers, bill payments, or purchases. Furthermore, using your Maya account for online shopping provides the chance to earn bonus interest.
Photo from Maya Bank
7. Maya Savings
Maya Savings offers a user-friendly mobile app, providing Filipinos with convenient and accessible banking. With a few taps on their smartphones, users can open accounts, manage transactions, and track finances. This convenience boosts accessibility, particularly for individuals in remote areas or with limited access to traditional banking services.
One standout feature of Maya Savings is the Maya Goals feature. These goal accounts come with a guaranteed interest rate of 6% per annum on balances up to PHP 1 million, motivating users to save and grow their money.
Photo from Maya Bank
8. SeaBank
SeaBank PH offers a daily credited interest rate of up to 5% per annum. This applies to account balances up to PHP 250,000. Balances above PHP 250,000 receive a competitive interest rate of 3% per annum. The new rate was implemented on March 15, 2023.
SeaBank accounts stand out with no mandatory maintaining balance or lock-in period. Account opening is free, requiring only one valid ID for verification. Moreover, users can easily transfer funds from ShopeePay to SeaBank at any time without any charges.
Photo from SeaBank
9. UNO Digital Bank
UNO Digital Bank offers a maximum interest rate of 4.25% per annum. For balances below PHP 5,000.00, the base interest rate is 3.50% gross per annum. Balances ranging from PHP 5,000.00 to PHP 4,999,999.99 qualify for a step-up interest rate of 4.25% gross per annum.
However, when the balance exceeds PHP 5,000,000.00, the interest rate decreases to 1.00% gross per annum.
10. RCBC DiskarTech
DiskarTech, powered by Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), is a fast-growing digital banking app. While it primarily focuses on providing financial inclusion to the unbanked population, it also offers competitive interest rates on savings accounts.
It provides an impressive interest rate of 6.5% per annum, surpassing the typical interest rates offered by other banks, often below 1% per annum.
Online banking in the Philippines is transforming the way Filipinos manage their finances, offering convenience, accessibility, and attractive interest rates. These banks provide customers with an excellent platform to grow their savings and take charge of their transactions.
Whether you’re seeking higher interest rates or a more user-friendly banking experience, these banks can meet your needs, ensuring a secure and rewarding banking experience in the digital era.
Exciting news for travel enthusiasts! Siargao, a gorgeous island paradise in the Philippines, will be opening an international cruise ship terminal this year. For individuals wishing to explore Siargao and its surrounding islands, the opening of this port will increase accessibility and convenience.
Photo from Philippine Ports Authority
The Philippine Ports Authority will open a cruise ship terminal in Siargao in October. According to (PPA), Attorney General Manager Jay Santiago, the administration also plans on building cruise ports in other popular tourist locations around the archipelago, including Coron, Boracay, and Bohol, along with Camaguin.
Santiago says,
“Tourism is a catalyst for development in these areas and we need to provide cruise ship access to them.”
Siargao Island | Photo form UnsplashSiargao Island | Photo form Unsplash
According to Santiago, the number of maritime passengers in the country would climb by 50% this year, up from 52 million last year. PPA has also launched its Port Users and Locators Satisfaction Outlook, which will be rolled out in its 25 Port Management Offices this month to consistently meet the demands of stakeholders.
In the statement issued on the Philippine Ports Authority’s Facebook page, 30 new seaport projects were completed with funds generated internally by the PPA.
Photo from Philippine Ports Authority
Siargao, recognized as the Philippines’ surfing capital, has received worldwide recognition for its pure white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class waves. With the opening of the international cruise ship terminal, travelers from all over the world will be able to embark on a memorable sea adventure to this tropical paradise.
Property giant Megaworld is building a two-level standalone convention center inside its 30-hectare The Mactan Newtown township in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.
Set to rise just across the newly opened Belmont Hotel Mactan along Newtown Boulevard, the P1.5-billion Mactan Expo Center will offer almost a hectare of MICE space (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions).
The ground level will feature a convention hall that can accommodate up to 2,500 people for theatre-type set-up, and 1,600 people for banquet-style set-up. The convention hall can also be divided into three smaller halls that can accommodate around 700 to 900 persons per hall for theatre-style, and 500 to 600 persons per hall for banquet-style layout.
The 2,500-seating capacity Mactan Expo Center will further boost Cebu’s MICE tourism industry
The main convention hall will have its own expansive foyer and pre-function areas. The ground level will also have two drop-off areas, service kitchen area, cafes, and an event showroom, where expo center clients can check sample event set-ups and arrangements.
At the mezzanine level, the expo center will have two meeting rooms for smaller and intimate events. Each meeting room can accommodate up to 100 persons for banquet-style layout and around 150 persons for theatre-style layout. Both meeting rooms may be combined into a single venue.
The mezzanine level will also have its own pre-function area, as well as an outdoor balcony and storage rooms.
With its minimalist design that illuminates at night, the Mactan Expo Center’s façade will be complemented by interiors inspired by Cebu’s local culture, festivals, arts, flavors, nature scenes, and icons. Design elements will be mostly sourced locally.
“We hope to build another iconic landmark not just for Mactan but for the entire province of Cebu. This convention center will be a unique standalone structure that will help boost the province’s booming MICE industry,”
SAYS KEVIN L. TAN, CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER, MEGAWORLD.
