Technology has drastically advanced over the recent years, and various countries are already keeping up, including the Philippines.
Thus introducing the latest government-made super app called eGov PH!
Photo from DICT
eGovPH showcases new options pertaining to legal transactions for the Filipino public. It mainly deals with financial settlements for now, but more additions are to be expected in the future.
A ceremony was recently held for the release of this app, with Information and Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressing gratitude and hopefulness for the future of e-governance.
“This is what we are pushing for. This is what e-governance is about — to bring it all together, to make it simple and available and accessible,”
THE PRESIDENT SHARED,
Photo from Google Play
“I am very, very happy that we are going in this direction. There is another part of this that is extremely important, that is sometimes we do not talk about, and that is the lessening of corruption,”
HIGHLIGHTING ONCE AGAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF HONESTY AND TRANSPARENCY.
More developments are already in the works, implementing various options like E-Local Government Units (ELGU), E-Government Application (EGovApp), EGovpay, E- Travel, and E-cloud, along with other specific proposals.
Photo from Department of Information and Communications Technology – DICT Facebook Page
The app aims to make government services easier for everyone, all the while making strides to combat corruption deeply rooted in the authorities. Efficiency is the goal of innovation, hence inspiring people to strive and develop new things.
Is Canada one of the places on your bucket list? Or maybe it’s the country you want to migrate to. You know, it’s best if you go prepared. If it’s your first time going to Canada, there are things you might want to remember before you go.
Well, lucky you. We’ve compiled a list of some things you must consider before going on a vacation or moving to Canada. So grab your pen and paper because here are five things to expect while living in Canada.
1. Winter Clothing is a Must
Photo from Unsplash
If you plan on migrating to Canada, you must stock up on some winter clothing. And when we say winter clothing, we don’t just mean sweaters but insanely thick winter coats, gloves, and even boots. This is because Canada’s average temperature during winter time can go below zero. Moreover, the country’s temperature can be as low as -30°C or -40°C.
2. Canada is a Cultural Hot Pot
Toronto, Canada | Photo from Unsplash
Canada is one of the few countries that warmly welcome immigrants from all over the world. There is not much discrimination in Canada, and people of all races and religions are respected. Moreover, 20% of Canadians were born in a different country.
Because Canada is a cultural hot pot, best believe you will encounter people who speak different languages and have different religions and cultures.
3. Learn Canada’s Two Official Languages
Photo from Unsplash
You might wonder why Canadians living in Quebec, New Brunswick, and Yukon speak French while others speak full English. This is because Canada has two official languages: English and French.
There are even laws made to ensure that everyone speaks French in specific areas. Like British and Australian English, Canadian English is unique and can take quite a time to master. The most famous Canadian phrase is “eh.” Moreover, Canadians often say “sorry” when given the opportunity.
4. Smoke only to a Minimum.
Photo from Unsplash
If you are a heavy smoker, Canada might not be the best option unless you agree to keep it to a minimum. In Canada, smoking is prohibited in public spaces such as stores, offices, hospitals, and restaurants, among others. Even apartment buildings and rental complexes prohibit smoking.
Where can you smoke, you may ask? You are only allowed to smoke in your own home or vehicle, basically in non-shared spaces.
Working and moving to another country may be exciting; however, you still need to consider some factors. Being in another country also means adapting to what the people of that country are used to. It will be hard but not impossible if it’s your first time.
Cebu’s very own Hawker Center? Now this is something worth checking out.
Have you heard of a Hawker Center? It’s an open-air complex where different stalls operate and sell affordable food. Hawkers Centers are popular in Singapore, Hongkong, and Malaysia. And now, it’s here in the Queen City of the South.
Photo from Carbon Market Cebu Facebook Page
Introducing, The Barracks at Carbon Market. The Barracks had its soft launch on May 1, 2023 and its grand opening on May 12, the night of Gabii sa Kabilin. Ever since, people have been flocking and talking about the place and for good reason.
At The Barracks, you will be greeted by tons of food stalls. Feast your eyes with different food dishes and meals your inner foodie would love. The Barracks opens at 10 AM but if you want to get a livelier experience, head over there at night.
Photo from Carbon Market Cebu Facebook PagePhoto from Carbon Market Cebu Facebook Page
Barbecue, street food, and different drinks, they are all available at Cebu’s new Hawker center. There are even shops selling weaved baskets and bags.
It’s also the ideal place to spend time with your family and friends. There’s good food, music, and company, what more can you ask for?
Looking for the newest place to spend your “laag” nights? Look no further because The Barracks is here.
Photo from Carbon Market Cebu Facebook PagePhoto from Carbon Market Cebu Facebook PagePhoto from Carbon Market Cebu Facebook Page
Do you long for a tranquil beach vacation where you can relax and take in the sun in style? This newly-opened place up north is the way to go!
Photo from North Cove Facebook Page
In the picture-perfect village of San Remigio, look no farther than North Cove, a recently opened beach house rental. This hidden gem offers an exclusive experience of solitude and elegance and is tucked away in front of a beautiful beach.
People looking for a break from the busy city life are catered to in North Cove. It offers the ideal blend of comfort and nature with its rustic charm and contemporary facilities. Let us find out more about what makes this beach house the fresh talk of the town!
Have the place all to yourselves
When you book North Cove, you can be assured of complete privacy. The entire property is all yours to enjoy, ensuring you a personalized experience for you and your loved ones. Be it for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a trip with friends, North Cove is the perfect setting.
Photo from North Cove Facebook PagePhoto from North Cove Facebook Page
North Cove’s pristine seashore is a wonderful sight to behold. It exemplifies a tropical paradise with its white sands and blue waters with foamy waves. This stretch of coastline allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature by providing a tranquil and seclusion from urban life.
Take in the breathtaking coastal scenery and make the most of your beach vacation. You can explore the crystalline waters at your own pace by using the kayaks, vests, and floaters that North Cove makes available to visitors. These amenities offer countless hours of entertainment and adventure, whether you’re an experienced water sports enthusiast or a beginner eager to try something new.
Relish in amenities designed for your comfort
Unwind to the comfort of your air-conditioned bedroom after a day spent exploring the beach or enjoying water sports. Four roomy and exquisitely furnished guestrooms at North Cove provide you a comfortable night’s sleep. Hot and cold showers are provided in every bedroom, allowing you to get ready and unwind in the utmost comfort.
North Cove never sacrifices entertainment. Disney+ is available on the TVs in every bedroom, offering many hours of family-friendly entertainment.
Photo from North Cove Facebook PagePhoto from North Cove Facebook Page
North Cove doesn’t sacrifice on contemporary comforts even if it endorses a rustic environment. The free Wi-Fi is available all over the place, so you may share your special moments with friends and family. The beach house also offers access to a fully functional kitchen.
North Cove is more than just a place to rent a beach house; it is a rustic haven of luxury with an unspoiled beauty. For those looking for an unforgettable beach getaway, then this is for you.
Pack your bags and get ready to discover San Remigio’s North Cove’s charm. This secluded oasis is waiting for you and your loved ones, providing an amazing escapade.
Reserve your stay right away, and let North Cove level up your average beach trip!
Photo from North Cove Facebook PagePhoto from North Cove Facebook PagePhoto from North Cove Facebook PagePhoto from North Cove Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
EXCLUSIVE USE:
P35,000 per night, maximum of 12 pax; minimum stay of 2 nights
Additional P1,500 per night per person; maximum 8 additional persons
Prices are subject to change
AMENITIES:
Exclusive use of the property
4 air-conditioned bedrooms with hot and cold showers
BY COMMUTE: : From the North Bus Terminal, take a bus to San Remigio. Once you arrive, you can ride a habal-habal and tell the driver to drop you off at North Cove in Bancasan.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “North Cove” in Bancasan, San Remigio. Parking space is available.
K-drama fans rejoice! You can now fly from Cebu to Daegu, where your favorite K-drama locations are located.
Photo from Mactan-Cebu International Airport Facebook Page
Are you planning to visit the Village of Nampyeong Moon Clan (Moon Lovers), Gyemyeong University Seongseo Campus (Boys Over Flowers), or Bongmu Park (It’s Okay, It’s Love)? You can now do so with JEJU Air’s Cebu-Daegu DAILY direct flights.
JEJU Air bridges travelers to other parts of South Korea aside from Seoul. Mactan-Cebu International Airport has announced the resumption of Cebu-Daegu-Cebu direct flights through JEJU Air.
Gimpo International Airport | Photo from Unsplash
Aside from the famous K-drama locations, Daegu is also renowned for its rich and ancient culture. In addition, the city is enriched with faultless attractions and mountains. It is also known as the City of Oriental Medicine because it is one of the few cities in South Korea that still offers the trade of oriental medicine.
In addition, Daegu has some of the best hiking spots with stunning views. If you love hiking, then add Daegu to your bucket list.
Photo from Mactan-Cebu International Airport Facebook Page
What are you waiting for? Book a flight to Daegu now with JEJU Air here. Who knows, you might meet your future Gu Jun-pyo, Prince Wang So, or Hae Soo.
It’s good to indulge in luxury and class every once in a while, and what better place to do it than Ambiance?
Ambiance is a resto-bar located in IT Park, Cebu. It’s a few steps from the walk and is not that hard to miss. If you hear acoustic music playing at night and see a place with a classy vibe to it,
best believe you are at the right place.
Ambiance is hitting two birds with one stone because it is both a restaurant and a bar. After eating a filling meal, you can go right on ahead and indulge in tasty cocktails as you drink the night away.
The only Chic and Classy Resto-bar in IT Park
Ambiance brings Chic and Classy to a whole new level with its incredible interior. If you want to drink at a place that has an unwinding environment, then Ambiance is the place to be.
With an interior made of wood, plant accents, and beautiful lights brightening up the place, Ambiance screams luxury and comfort. And to elevate the guests’ overall experience, the resto-bar also has an acoustic band that plays every night. The band creates an even more romantic atmosphere, playing light music while guests dine and drink.
A Taste of Western and Filipino Cuisine fused into one
Ambiance specializes in Western Filipino Cuisine, and the resto-bar has a variety of dishes that will tickle your taste buds. For some people, Ambiance is expensive, but what makes up for their pricey food is the incredibly huge serving per dish.
Almost all of Ambiance’s dishes are good for sharing and are worth the price. Ambiance prides itself on its best-selling food, such as the Antipasto Platter, a mix of pastrami, different cheeses, and more. The platter is good for three to four people.
For their sandwiches, the best-seller is their house specialty Ambiance Burger. And, of course, the experience is not complete without trying out all of the resto-bar’s steak dishes. Do you want a pro tip? You should order the Steak Platter, which is good for three to four people.
Drink the Night Away With Ambiance’s Flaming Cocktails
Do you want to see something cool? Then get the flaming cocktails. The bartender will stack the cocktail glasses into a pyramid, pour liquor over it, and sprinkle cinnamon. The smell and taste it’s exquisite.
Don’t forget; Ambiance also has Happy Hour every Monday to Thursday from 3 PM to 6 PM. The happy hour offers unlimited drinks on selected cocktails.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Best-sellers:
Antipasto Platter
Steak Platter
Ambiance Burger
Ambiance Signature Cocktails
Other Information:
Opening hours: 2 PM to 1 AM on Weekdays; 2 PM to 2 AM on Weekends
Exact location: Garden Row, Cebu IT Park, Cebu City (in line with Coffee Bean, Boy Zugba, and Sachi restaurant near AyalaMalls Central Bloc and The Walk)
BY BUS: Ride any beep or bus going to Cebu IT Park and ask the driver to drop you off at The Walk or Garden Row.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Ambiance and Style Bar” in IT Park. Parking space is available.
“Napakaraming inhinyero dito sa amin. Ngunit bakit tila walang natira?” (There are a lot of engineers here in our area. But why is it that’s there none of them left anymore?)
That’s a line from the song “Walang Natira” By Gloc 9, featuring Sheng Belmonte. The song talks about OFW, or Filipino, leaving their home country to get jobs abroad. A lot of Pinoys are trying their luck outside of the Philippines to get a stable job that pays well.
If you plan to work abroad, here are the top 7 in-demand Jobs for Filipinos outside the Philippines.
1. Engineering
Photo from Unsplash
We cannot have the state-of-the-art products we have now if it weren’t for engineers. This is why engineering is the first in-demand job on our list for Filipinos abroad. Civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers are needed because of the infrastructures being developed by different countries such as UAW, Australia, Japan, Kuwait, and Singapore.
The demand for engineers is still increasing over the years, which is why this is one of the most stable professions a person can have.
2. Hospitality-Related Work
Photo from Unsplash
Next is any Hospitality-related work such as bartending, being a waiter, concierge staff, and more. Of course, there are training centers available where you can enroll and get accredited. If you are interested in Hospitality-Related work, the training centers can help you choose the best country by helping you get to know the position and country profiles.
The countries that are in need of workers in Hospitality-related fields are UAE, United Kingdom, and Qatar, among others.
3. Healthcare
Photo from Unsplash
If you have family members or relatives who have nurses in their family, most of the time, these nurses are stationed abroad. This is because many Filipinos prefer to work overseas as a nurse. Aside from that, physical therapists and pharmacists are also in demand.
The US, Canada, and New Zealand are among the few that currently have staff shortages, which is why healthcare professionals are needed.
4. General Work
Photo from Unsplash
A lot of Filipinos also fly abroad to work as housekeepers and drivers. Some might think these jobs are the easiest, but that’s not the case. General work requires long work hours. That must be a dream, right? Working more means earning more. Wrong. These jobs have lower compensation than others.
5. Manufacturers
Photo from Unsplash
Manufacturing companies need a larger workforce to function better. For example, those in the electronics, automotive, and clothing industries require many employers to do the job. Moreover, in a manufacturing establishment, each worker is placed in a production team with its own tasks.
If you want to try your luck in the manufacturing business, you can head to Taiwan and China.
6. Teachers
Photo from Unsplash
If you have just passed the LPT licensure exam, this might be your sign to apply abroad. Filipino teachers are in-demand in Japan, China, South Korea, and Indonesia. Notice how most of these places use English as their second language. Filipinos are known to be excellent English speakers and are competent, which is why there is a need for more of them in the abovementioned countries.
7. Labor and Construction
Photo from Unsplash
And last but not least, Labor and Construction.
New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and the Middle East are looking for laborers and construction workers. Moreover, most countries target Filipinos because of their hardworking nature and top-tier skills.
Furthermore, many Filipinos work as welders, plumbers, electricians, and construction workers abroad because they are high-paying jobs.
We must make big sacrifices to have a better shot at a successful life. Unfortunately, one of these sacrifices is working away from our family. However, with all the opportunities abroad and the high-paying jobs, it’s a sacrifice most of us are willing to take.
Now that you know the top 7 in-demand jobs abroad for Filipinos, you might start considering which fits your skills best.
In an exciting development, Android users can now rejoice as WhatsApp brings the highly anticipated screen sharing feature to its platform.
Photo from Unsplash
The beta version of WhatsApp for Android allows selected beta testers to experience this long-awaited functionality. The feature is expected to gradually roll out to a wider user base in the coming days.
To utilize this new feature, users need to update their WhatsApp app to the latest version. Once updated, look for the icon resembling a phone with an arrow pointing outwards, conveniently located near other essential tools like muting.
Photo from Unsplash
Upon clicking the icon, users will be presented with a prompt asking, “Start recording or casting with WhatsApp?” and by selecting “Start now”, users can swiftly begin enjoying screen sharing.
In addition to this, WhatsApp is actively exploring additional features for Android users. Some potential additions include personalized usernames, allowing users to choose unique identifiers, and a “status archive” feature that enables businesses to archive and reuse their statuses beyond the standard 24-hour period.
These exciting developments signify WhatsApp’s commitment to continuously enhancing user experiences and expanding its versatile repertoire of tools.
Photo from Unsplash
With the introduction of screen sharing and the prospect of forthcoming features, WhatsApp remains at the forefront of revolutionizing communication, bringing convenience, interactivity, and creativity to millions of users worldwide.
Hope will never be silent! It’s officially the month of June.
Photo from Unsplash
The LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) community, their history, and their struggle for equal rights are recognized and celebrated during this month dedicated to Pride, an annual event that takes place all over the world.
The LGBTQ+ community comes together to spread awareness, and celebrate their identities and contributions during this time.
In this article, we delve into the captivating history behind Pride Month, unveiling its rich legacy and significance.
The Stonewall incident
The roots of Pride Month can be traced back to the Stonewall Uprising in New York City in June 1969.
Photo from Getty Images via History Website
On the fateful night of June 28, as officers attempted yet another raid at the popular gay bar Stonewall Inn, the place became a focal point of resistance when the patrons – led by transgender women of color and other marginalized members of the community – decided to resist.
People both inside and outside of the pub stood up in a powerful and spontaneous act of defiance in response to the discriminatory treatment.
The resulting disputes between the police and the defiant crowd lasted for several nights and served as the catalyst for the Stonewall Uprising.
The sparked LGBTQ+ support movement
Members of the community who had been ostracized and silenced for a long time were inspired by the Stonewall events to demand their rights and dignity.
The Stonewall Uprising brought the injustices experienced by LGBTQ+ people into the public eye, opening the door for a larger social conversation about equality, prejudice, and the requirement for legal safeguards.
Photo from Unsplash
Generations of activists have carried on the fight for equality and acceptance as a result of the spark that Stonewall kindled within the LGBTQ+ community.
The rebellion marked a turning point in the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and spawned a new wave of LGBTQ+ action.
The first Pride marches took place in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago a year later, in June 1970, laying the groundwork for what would eventually become an annual event celebrated all across the world.
The LGBTQ+ advocacy in the Philippines
The LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines is active, expanding, and has made significant strides in recent years.
The nation has a strong history of LGBTQ+ activism, with numerous groups fighting for acceptance and equal rights. Every June, the Philippines celebrate Pride Month, which has evolved into a fun event that welcomes participants from all backgrounds.
Photo from Unsplash
The Metro Manila Pride March, which is held in the country’s bustling capital city, is the highlight of Pride Month in the Philippines.
They also serve as a means to foster understanding, promote inclusivity, and amplify LGBTQ+ voices.
The fight for LGBTQ+ acceptance and rights in the Philippines is still facing obstacles, despite the progress that has been made.
Pride Month is a significant time to commemorate the global LGBTQ+ community’s history, hardships, and accomplishments.
In order to build a more inclusive and welcoming society for all, it is essential to keep supporting and elevating the voices of the LGBTQ+ community as the movement advances, not only during Pride Month but all year long.
Photo from whitney_chewston on Instagram
We should be proud of who we are and who we love – just extra proud this month.
LazzieChat, a ground-breaking AI chatbot powered by OpenAI ChatGPT on Azure OpenAI Service, has been introduced by Lazada Group, one of the top eCommerce companies in the Philippines.
LazzieCha is the first of its kind in the region, and is set to revolutionize how users interact with the Lazada platform by offering effective and customized customer service.
Photo from Unsplash
With LazzieChat, Lazada users can now get answers to their questions about purchases in real-time, resulting in a streamlined and enjoyable shopping experience.
Lazada joins the ranks of Southeast Asian innovators in the use of artificial intelligence and natural language processing in chatbot technology by integrating ChatGPT with Azure OpenAI Service.
Furthermore, Lazada plans to expand LazzieChat’s language capabilities by introducing additional languages in the future, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all users.
To access LazzieChat, users can simply slide down from the home screen of the Lazada app, making it effortlessly convenient for customers to seek assistance and support whenever needed.
Photo from Lazada
By prioritizing user safety and maintaining high ethical standards, Lazada ensures that LazzieChat remains a reliable and trustworthy companion for shoppers.
The introduction of LazzieChat marks a significant milestone for Lazada and the eCommerce landscape in Southeast Asia.
Lazada is reinventing customer service and engagement by utilizing the capabilities of OpenAI ChatGPT on Azure OpenAI Service, offering a personalized and efficient shopping experience.
The eCommerce giant Lazada has a bright future as it continues to improve LazzieChat’s algorithms and broaden its language capabilities.
Photo from Orchan Huervas
With LazzieChat paving the way, Lazada is poised to firmly establish itself as a forerunner in Southeast Asia’s eCommerce sector, consistently setting the standard for innovation and customer service.
LazzieChat epitomizes the marriage of cutting-edge artificial intelligence and user-centric design in the fast changing digital landscape, enabling online shopping on Lazada an even more pleasurable and frictionless experience for people throughout Southeast Asia.
