Let Catriona Gray tell you a thing or two about shape-shifting. The elasticity of her career is the ultimate framework: from being a Filipino-Scottish model hailing from Australia, to Miss World Philippines 2016, to singer with a degree in Music Theory, to a black-belted Choi Kwang Do martial artist, to Miss Universe 2018, it’s clear that the world-renowned beauty has the innate ability to change the trajectory of her life at will.
This trajectory has led the beauty queen to where she is now: post-Miss Universe reign, a professional host, culture and youth advocate, and most recently, the face of Belo Medical Group’s Thermage FLX, one of Belo’s most cutting-edge treatments to lift and contour the skin. And as the universe continues to witness her timeless beauty, Catriona has been a long-time client of Thermage FLX, one of the most-trusted skin-tightening treatments that provides lifted and contoured skin without surgery and downtime.
Before and beyond her reign, Catriona’s always been an advocate for authentic and imperfect beauty, which makes her Thermage FLX ambassadorship an ideal match to her approach to staying beautiful—one that sees nothing wrong with improvement in pursuit of beauty that’s timless. And compared to other non-invasive lift and contouring procedures, an improved face or body shape is something Thermage FLX is famously known to deliver. Using a non-invasive, cutting-edge Radiofrequency (RF) technology, Thermage FLX penetrates deep into the innermost layers of the skin, stimulating the formation of new collagen that makes skin look tighter and more glowing.
This is why aside from Catriona Gray, other celebrities have been going to Belo to get their Thermage FLX treatment for years: Anne Curtis, Alden Richards, Korina Sanchez, and Kryz Uy are some of them, and from the younger set, Bella Racelis, Claudia Barretto, Ivana Alawi, and Iñigo Pascual have been going regularly for Thermage FLX treatments to get a headstart on skin tightening before aging happens.
Thermage FLX may be a well-known machine available to many clinics locally and internationally, but know that this process of lifting and contouring is best left in the hands of experts who deliver quality treatment. This is the key difference of Belo Thermage FLX: with Belo, years of training and experience precede its expert medical staff, and the addition of Belo Exosomes as a top-up treatment to Thermage FLX (also known as Belo Zoom Lift™) ensures maximum results that add to already excellent skin service.
Let Belo Thermage FLX be another reason to look up to Catriona as a beauty and life icon: a progressive outlook on beauty and the boldness to shape her life, career and skin—in any way she wants to.
For a consultation, visit the Belo Cebu Clinic at Taft East Gate across Landers or check
Tied to simple joys and innocent pleasures, our childhood memories define our younger years. For many Cebuanos who grew up in the 90s or earlier,nostalgia is – well, literally sweet.
The memories we hold close to our hearts that we now often laugh at would have been incomplete without the delightful candies that filled our pockets and satisfied our sweet cravings.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane as we explore five of these beloved candies that continue to evoke a sense of homesickness and fondness even to this day!
1. Mik-Mik
Starting off with a classic. Who remembers getting messy with these?
Mik-Mik, the powdered candy in bright red or brown sachets, was a staple for kids in the past.
Photo from Maricris Marande
This delightful treat allowed you to pour the flavored powder directly into your mouth, creating a burst of sweetness that we all loved from powdered milk.
I’m sure we can all agree that we’ve stained our shirts every time we had these, even if we used the tiny straw that came with it.
The small size and vibrant packaging made it a popular choice for sharing and trading with friends during recess or after school.
2. Bobot
An old-fashioned favorite! I asked people what candy they miss most, and they often answered with this pack of candy-coated peanuts – Bobot.
The flavor is not actually different depending on what color you choose to eat first, but when I had these back then I would have sworn it was and that the yellow one tasted best. I’m sure I’m not alone.
Made by Highland Confectionery Mfg. Inc. in Mandaue City, this was all over Cebu. Sometimes when stores did not have coins for change, a small pack of Bobot with four nuts inside made it on our hands instead, but we didn’t complain.
Bobot candies were a hit among Cebuano kids, with its unique blend of tangy sweetness and a pleasant surprise inside.
3. Tootsie Roll
This list would not be complete without mentioning the sweet and indulgent Tootsie Roll!
With its iconic cylindrical shape and faded brown wrapper despite its compact size, it was easily recognizable. A chocolatey goodness that we loved to share after recess.
Photo from Tootsie Roll Facebook Page
This is a classic American candy that found its way into the hearts of Cebuanos. We just somehow knew it was American – Tootsie Roll to a lot of us as kids was an experience in and of itself.
With its chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor, Tootsie Roll was a favorite delight that brought joy to many children.
4. Tira-Tira
Oh we are going way back in time.
An archetypal candy – the crumpled colored wax paper inside bags meant you had a delicious
treat before you got home. Who also had a classmate that sold these during recess?
Tira-Tira is a buttercrunch toffee that came wrapped in the aforementioned in the shape of a thin, long tube.
Did you know that its name was actually taken from a Spanish word for ‘pulling’? Because after the sugarcane juice is boiled, it goes through a process of pulling which is how the candy is formed.
5. Orange Swits
Orange Swits, another favorite! A tangy and zesty candy that is a burst of orange was beloved by Cebuano kids.
Photo from Lazada
Different from the candies mentioned above, this one is a chewy one! Straight to the point. These small sugar-coated jellies offered a strong citrus flavor that kept us coming back for more.
Up to this day, people still really search for it. Where can you get Orange Swits now in Cebu?
“Vintage” candies from Mik-Mik to Orange Swits hold a special place in the hearts of Cebuanos. If you find yourself yearning for a taste of the past, it’s worth exploring whether these beloved treats are still available. While time may have moved on, these candies can transport you back to your childhood, allowing you to relive the sweetness of those cherished moments. So, go ahead, search for these candies, and indulge in the sweet nostalgia that they bring!
The Maldives is one of the ultimate vacation destinations globally. And many of us dream of waking up to the beautiful aquamarine waters. This dream of ours might soon become a reality, thanks to AirAsia.
Maldives | Photo from Unsplash
AirAsia Philippines will soon offer fly-thru flights to the Maldives via Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The travel period will be from June 6 to December 14, 2023. However, as of date, AirAsia still has not released any updates on the prices and schedules.
The Beauty of the Maldives
When people ask, “What’s one of the most famous destination spots in the world?”, best believe many will say, “The Maldives.”
Maldives | Photo from Unsplash
The Maldives boasts its pristine beaches and its beautiful azure waters. From food to its unique and vibrant culture, the Maldives has a lot of great things to offer. It is also home to many resorts and islands where tourists can enjoy a tropical island getaway.
In the Maldives, happiness knows no bounds. It is a place of bliss and the ultimate escape to where the sun sets beautifully with the sea.
Keep your eyes peeled for AirAsia’s updates regarding the AirAsia Fly-thru flights to the Maldives, and turn your dreams into reality.
Do you have a bucket list yet? You know, that short – or maybe a lengthy yet epic – list of experiences you want to tick off before you “kick the bucket”. And one of the most common items found in anyone’s bucket list, especially the millennials, is skydiving — probably next to “traveling the world”.
For adrenaline junkies, there is no greater feeling than jumping out of a soaring plane at least 10,000 feet up in the sky, wind gushing through your face and the earth below rushing up to meet you. Exciting, eh? The best part is, you don’t need to fly to another country to experience skydiving — it’s here in the Queen City of the South, in the beautiful Bantayan Island to be exact.
Ready to check off the classic Bucket List Item Number One? Scroll down ’til the end to know the important details.
Skydive Greater Cebu, the only USPA (United States Parachute Association) Member dropzone in the Philippines, offers a personalized experience in a relaxed environment with the best Tandem Instructors in the industry.
A Tandem Skydive involves a student harnessed to a Tandem Instructor. Their team is not only dedicated to giving you the thrill of a lifetime, but strive to teach you the basic fundamentals of skydiving (exiting the plane, free fall, piloting the canopy, and landing).
How much does it really cost?
Let’s cut the chase. Just keep on reading if you want to know more about the details.
RATE: ₱21,500 per person.
INCLUSIONS:
A brief instructional class – A single Tandem Skydive harnessed to one of their professional Tandem Instructors
Hand cam captured photos and videos (raw copies), please bring at-least 4GB of storage device (USB)
Enjoy a beautiful canopy descent overlooking the breath taking view of Bantayan Island.
Optional:
Outside video / 3rd person P8,000
Beach landing upon availability
Things to know for your first Tandem Skydive:
Your first Tandem Skydive will be a breeze! -Skydive Greater Cebu will supply the most up-to-date Tandem Equipment
You will receive personal instruction using the most modern training techniques available
All of our Tandem Instructors are certified by the United States Parachute Association (USPA).
There is a 250lb weight limit -Please wear comfortable clothing and a good pair of shoes here.
Divers must be above 18 years of age.
All divers are required to sign a liability waiver form that informs them of the risks of the dive.
People with neck, shoulder and back problems are advised against sky diving.
– You can take a Ceres bus from Cebu North Bus Terminal (Near SM City Cebu) going to Hagnaya (San Remigio). Travel time is 3-4 hours, fare is around ₱200 for air-conditioned. The bus will direct you to HAGNAYA port where you will ride a Ferry going to Santa Fe (Bantayan Island). Travel time is another 1 hour, fare is ₱170. Then contact Skydive Greater Cebu so they can fetch you at Santa Fe Port going to the drop zone.
Ferry Schedule is from 3am – 5pm only with every hour interval. You must leave Cebu City 1PM the latest to catch the last trip of Ferry in Hagnaya Port.
2. By Van/Taxi and Ferry:
– For hassle free, convenient and faster trip, you can arrange a pick up with Skydive Greater Cebu in Mactan International Airport or within Metro Cebu going to HAGNAYA PORT. Travel time is 2-3 hours plus 1 hour for the ferry. For 1-3 person = ₱2,500 (Vios Taxi), one-way not including ferry fare (₱170 /head). For 4-10 persons = ₱4,000 (Toyota Hi-Ace Van), one-way not including ferry fare.
If you wish to return to Cebu City the same day of your jump, the driver can wait for you at Hagnaya Port for a minimal waiting fee. Rate same as above.
Ferry Schedule is from 3am – 5pm only with every hour interval. You must leave Cebu City 1PM the latest to catch the last trip of Ferry in Hagnaya Port.
To a lot of us – pets are more than animals; they are members of our families that bring us happiness and affection.
There is nothing quite as enjoyable as having your animal friend by your side when dining out.
But getting lucky with a restaurant that does not mind having you bring them with you may frequently feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.
However, there are hidden havens where pets are warmly welcomed! In the city of Cebu, these restaurants provide a distinctive and welcoming experience that enables pet owners to enjoy delectable meals while cherishing special times with their cherished pets!
Here are 5 pet-friendly restaurants in the metropolis.
1. AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna
As a place for rest and rejuvenation in a city where saunas are hard to come by, AYO AYO stands out.
However, this location is more than simply a place to relax; it is a combination of various experiences that will leave you wanting more.
Photo from AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna Facebook Page
Photo from AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna Facebook Page
Photo from AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna Facebook Page
Photo from AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna Facebook Page
Photo from AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna Facebook Page
Photo from AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna Facebook Page
Photo from AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna Facebook Page
Photo from AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna Facebook Page
Photo from AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna Facebook Page
Prepare your taste buds for a gourmet adventure as you enter the cafe’s pleasant setting. A delicious variety of Japanese dishes, with a touch of Italian-inspired creativity, are available at the AYO AYO Cafe. Enjoy chewy udon noodles that have been redesigned with mouthwatering Italian tastes that will surprise your tongue. Don’t forget to try their signature gyozas, which are packed with flavorful fillings that will leave you wanting more.
But AYO AYO Cafe’s allure extends beyond its menu – meet Given, the endearing local golden retriever and the inspiration behind this wonderful place. Given brings an extra element of friendliness and joy to your stay with her happy tail-wagging and playful personality.
Pet owners can create memories and enjoy a comfortable atmosphere while spending quality time with their pet friends.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “AYO AYO Cafe & Sauna” in Guadalupe. Parking space is available.
2. Acacia Steakhouse
Meat lovers and their four-legged friends will find refuge at Acacia Steakhouse!
This steakhouse offers a dining experience that honors both human and animal carnivorous instincts in an open area that welcomes pets.
Steak is the center of attention at Acacia Steakhouse. This restaurant takes pride in serving exquisite steaks that will excite your taste buds thanks to its skill in the grilling arts and dedication to premium meat cuts. Each steak, whether it is a juicy sirloin or a tender ribeye, is masterfully grilled to perfection, guaranteeing a savory experience.
Photo from Acacia Steakhouse Facebook Page
Photo from Acacia Steakhouse Facebook Page
Photo from Acacia Steakhouse Facebook Page
Photo from Acacia Steakhouse Facebook Page
Photo from Acacia Steakhouse Facebook Page
Photo from Acacia Steakhouse Facebook Page
Photo from Acacia Steakhouse Facebook Page
Photo from Acacia Steakhouse Facebook Page
Photo from Acacia Steakhouse Facebook Page
But Acacia Steakhouse would not make it to this list if it were not pet-friendly. The steakhouse goes the extra mile to make sure that our furry friends may indulge in the meaty pleasures as well because they are aware that pets are natural carnivores.
Due to the menu’s particular selections for our canine companions, pet owners can savor the pleasure of dining with their cherished animals. Pets can enjoy their fair portion of the carnivorous feast, which includes sumptuous steaks and well-cooked meat bites.
Exact Location: Acacia Street, Green Valley Subdivision, Capitol, Cebu City
BY COMMUTE: Ride any jeep going to Osmeña Blvd and tell the driver to drop you off at Green Valley Subdivision. At Acacia Street, you can find Acacia Steakhouse.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Acacia Steakhouse” in Capitol.
3. IL Corso’s Food Yard
By the seaside, in lL Corso, there is a food yard booming with treats and life.
The pet-friendly food yard by the sea has its fair share of delicious foods that suit a variety of tastes and preferences. There is something to fulfill every craving, from locally-sourced seafood specialties to pizzas baked to perfection.
Photo from Il Corso Lifemalls Facebook Page
Photo from Il Corso Lifemalls Facebook Page
Photo from Il Corso Lifemalls Facebook Page
Photo from Il Corso Lifemalls Facebook Page
Photo from Il Corso Lifemalls Facebook Page
Photo from Il Corso Lifemalls Facebook Page
Photo from Il Corso Lifemalls Facebook Page
Even our animal pals are in for a treat at the pet-friendly food yard by the sea! Our friends are natural carnivores, therefore, the park can ensure they can also enjoy their portion of meaty treats.
IL Corso’s food yard offers a peaceful and welcoming environment for spending time with your beloved pets, even if they are not wanting to indulge in a meal. There are numerous designated play areas and open areas where your pets may run around, chase after balls, and socialize with other kind animals.
Exact Location: Il Corso, North Parking Area, South Road Properties, Cebu City — approx. 18-25 minutes away from SM City Cebu.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “IL Corso North Parking Area.” The estimated fare is ₱150-200 from SM City Cebu.
4. Charlie’s Cup
Charlie’s Cup is a wooden fantasy land! And who loves sticks more than a dog does?
Perched on the cliffs of Balamban amidst the spectacular scenery of Transcentral Highway, this gem that encapsulates beloved locals not only provides a breathtaking panoramic view but also warmly welcomes pets, making it a paradise for pet owners looking for magical moments in the embrace of nature.
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
Photo from Charlie’s Cup Facebook Page
At Charlie’s Cup, you can savor mouth-watering pastries and espresso drinks while taking in the breathtaking views that spread as far as the eye can see. The wooden building mixes in perfectly with the landscape, adding a natural charm that accentuates the cliffs of Balamban’s natural beauty.
Charlie’s Cup offers a calm haven to get away from the bustle of daily life, whether you’re looking for a moment of peace or a chance to make enduring memories with your pet.
People frequent Charlie’s Cup for its snacks and espressos, as well as the opportunity to spend time with their cherished dogs. Together, you can take in breathtaking vistas, savor the cooling breeze that caresses the cliffs, and create cherished memories that will live on in your hearts forever.
Exact Location: Brgy. Tabunan, Cebu City — just before the “Welcome to Balamban” sign, approx. 1 hour away from the city. It is located along the highway going to Balamban and just a few meters from “21 Kilometers Coffee”.
BY V-HIRE: From the Ayala Center Cebu PUV Terminal, take a v-hire going to Balamban. Tell the driver to drop you off at Charlie’s Cup in Brgy. Tabunan. Van fare is around P120 per head (one-way).
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Charlie’s Cup” in Brgy. Tabunan.
5. Chixboy Busay
Another one nestled in scenic hills, we have Chixboy Busay.
Chixboy Busay’s stunning offers an outdoor eating experience and a breathtaking city vista.
The welcoming environment that embraces both pet owners and their furry companions, delivering a wonderful experience for all, is what distinguishes the place – not just the view.
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
Photo form Chixboy Facebook Page
You can enjoy the scrumptious barbecues and delicious kwek-kwek (deep-fried quail eggs) while you indulge in the dazzling cityscape. This is especially true during the romantic evening hours. They can behold the sparkling lights in the open-air setting, which creates a captivating and energizing experience that will keep their tails wagging in ecstasy.
Allow the flavors to capture your taste buds, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing lights, and bask in the company of your companions. In this pet-friendly area where food brings out the life of the woods, the beauty of Busay and the joy of pet companionship intertwine to create an unforgettable dining experience.
Exact Location: Busay, Cebu City (near Temple of Leah) — 15-20 minutes away from JY Square or the main road.
BY HABAL-HABAL: Ride a motorbike (max of 2 persons per bike) near or surrounding from JY Square Mall in Lahug. It would cost only P100 per head per way – P150 for 2 people. You may need to pay more and schedule ahead if you want a ride back from the city. Inform the driver to drop you off at Chixboy restaurant.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Chixboy” in Busay.
Pet-friendly restaurants have evolved into more than just places to eat in a world where animals have a special place in our hearts; they have become havens for treasured moments and shared experiences.
They offer a setting where the link between people and their pets can blossom, where happy purrs and wagging tails mingle with mouthwatering tastes and captivating ambiance. So, as you set out on your next dining excursion, keep in mind to look for these pet-friendly gems, where our love for our pets is honored, and priceless memories are created.
If you are a fan of Filipino psychological films, you might have watched Aparisyon. The spine-chilling psychological movie earned its place in the hearts of Filipino Film enthusiasts with its touch on the gruesome history of the Philippines in the seventies.
But did you know that the brain behind the film is a transwoman?
Photo from isabelvsandoval on Instagram
Isabel Sandoval is a Cebuana filmmaker who is based in New York. She was born and raised in the Queen City of the South. She graduated from the University of San Carlos and earned her Master of Business Administration degree at New York University’s Stern School of Business. Sandoval is the first transwoman who participated in the Venice Film Festival with “Lingua Franca”.
She was also awarded Best Actress at the 18th International Cinephile Society Awards and the Pacific Meridian International Film Festival.
Isabel Sandoval’s Works
Isabel’s first notable film is Señorita, a film about a trans woman raising a kid while doing a political campaign. In addition, as mentioned above, Isabel Sandoval directed the film Aparisyon in 2012. She also produced and starred in the film Lingua Franca in 2019.
Photo from isabelvsandoval on Instagram
Lingua Franca was nominated for the John Cassavetes Award during the 2021 Independent Spirit Awards. In addition, the film won the award for best narrative feature during the Bentonville Film Festival.
Isabel recently was part of the Jury for the Queer Palm at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.
Isabel Sandoval finds her true self.
In an interview with Passerby magazine, Isabel explained that she did not realize she was trans until after moving to New York. She started a three-year soul-searching period. Finally, she decided to make and star in her first feature entitled “Señorita,” which she used to discover further that she is trans.
Photo from isabelvsandoval on Instagram
Isabel Sandoval embodies beauty, grace, and creativity as she navigates the film industry with her awe-inspiring feature films. She inspires aspiring filmmakers, especially trans filmmakers, who want to take risks to pursue a career in film.
More and more celebrities are getting involved with politics to the point that it is no longer a surprise and this story is no different.
SPOT.ph’s Ria Atayde was offered the position of being MMDA’s spokesperson, to which she “graciously agreed” to.
Photo from Ria Atayde on Instagram
Although she was exceptional at her job as a calendar girl, this proposition may open up new possibilities for Ria, as being the spokesperson means more responsibilities and puts her on the map for something much bigger.
What led to this recruitment?
The agency was looking for someone to fill in the missing spot of an assistant secretary, someone who could help lawyer Melissa Carunungan shoulder the work needed to be done within the MMDA. To which Ria Atayde was brought into the conversation.
Photo from Ria Atayde on Instagram
Ria has a great and credible background, having an amazing career in showbiz, dating back to her first acting debut in 2015 from the ABS-CBN series ‘Ningning’. As well as obtaining a degree in Communication Arts from De La Salle University.
“I think ‘yung work experience n’ya naman ay suited sa pagiging spokesperson at ‘yung pagiging celebrity n’ya ay beneficial sa agency so far as information dissemination is concerned, which is ‘yun naman ang main job ng isang spokesperson,” Artes stated.
Taking into account how she handles public backlash and bashing, Artes thinks she has the mental capabilities of a good spokesperson, adding more reason to hire her for the position.
Photo from Ria Atayde on Instagram
The way she took care of all the hate she received when she was announced as a calendar girl back in January, significantly solidified her qualification for the job, in Artes’ opinion.
His final remarks guarantee that she holds high value and can do great things for the agency.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) named Bohol Island the Philippines’ first Global Geopark.
Bohol, Philippines | Photo from Unsplash
According to UNESCO, “The island’s geological identity has been pieced together over 150 million years, as a period of tectonic turbulence has raised the island from the ocean depth”.
Moreover, the caves, sinkholes, cone karst, and the famous chocolate hills were spotlighted as what makes Bohol Island a geopark; also, UNESCO considered the Danajon Double Barrier Reef. The reef is a sporadic geological formation because it is the only one in the Philippines and Southeast Asia that is a double-barrier reef.
Bohol is also praised for its growing tourism, white sand beaches, diving spots, geological formations, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage.
Bohol, Philippines | Photo from Unsplash
Bohol is one of the newly announced Unesco Global Geoparks. Aside from the island, the following also made it to UNESCO’s list.
Caçapava Unesco Global Geopark in Brazil
Quarta Colônia Unesco Global Geopark in Brazil
Lavreotiki Unesco Global Geopark in Greece
Ijen Unesco Global Geopark in Indonesia
Maros Pangkep Unesco Global Geopark in Indonesia
Merangin Jambi Unesco Global Geopark in Indonesia
Raja Ampat Unesco Global Geopark in Indonesia
Aras Unesco Global Geopark in Iran
Tabas Unesco Global Geopark in Iran
Hakusan Tedorigawa Unesco Global Geopark in Japan
Kinabalu Uniesco Global Geopark in Malaysia
Waitaki Whitestone Unesco Global Geopark in New Zealand
Sunnhordland Unesco Global Geopark in Norway
Jeonbuk West Coast Unesco Global Geopark in the Republic Korea
Cabo Ortegal Unesco Global Geopark in Spain
Khorat Unesco Global Geopark in Thailand
Mourne Gullion Strangford Unesco Global Geopark in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Island
Bohol, Philippines | Photo from Unsplash
Bohol and the other destinations above are now part of UNESCO’S 195 Global Geoparks.
To someone who enjoys camping and the beach, it’s time to shake up that typical camping and beach escapade experience.
Camping on a beach, not to mention in an island, is something you should try. Not only will you get to have an easy reach of the water, but it also allows you to have a magnificent view of the stars above while the moonlight glitters on the water. Can you now imagine the beauty before going to sleep? Let’s bot forget waking up to an endless view of the water. What a sight!
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Photo from Tags Captures | Rhien Rosello Gonzaga
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Pasil Sandbar in Medellin offers the best of beach camping. And since it’s a public beach, entrance is FOR FREE. The sound of the waves and the white sandbar is all yours, FOR FREE.
Since it’s camping, you have to bring your own food, too. Since the island shows no sign of stores where you can buy your food, make sure to bring your own supply. However, places to cook are available in the area so, you may bring ready-to-cook meals.
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Photo by Chenee Cañete
The island has no electricity too. Perfect for those who would really want to disconnect from the harsh world of reality and reconnect with nature and her people. However, if you can’t live without one, you may bring your own powerbank and charged lamps and whatnot.
This is definitely not a fancy island where you can book a room or two. It is a sandbar where you can stay a night, in your own tent, and wake up to the white noise of the waves and pure nature. Make sure to bring your own tent so you can sleep with your own roof.
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Photo by Chenee Cañete
Photo by Chenee Cañete
OTHER INFORMATION
Contact Number: 0905 064 8326 | 0938 634 4890
HOW TO GET THERE
Exact Location: Pasil, Gibitngil Island, Medellin, Northern Cebu — approx. 3 hours travel from Cebu City.
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride any bus/mini bus to Kawit.Bus fare is ₱180 per person, v-hire is ₱170 per person. Ask to be dropped off at the corner of Brgy. Mahawak and take a tryke heading to the Port of Medellin. From there, take a motor boat to the island, which would approximately take 15-20 minutes from the port. Pump boat for rent is at P1500 for 15 PAX.
BY CAR: If you opt to bring your car, just navigate with Waze and pin your location to Kawit Medellin or to any beach resort nearby where you can park your car. You can try Kevin’s Beach Resort, Seahorse Tourist Inn or Emelia Hotel and Resort. Parking fee may range from ₱50 to ₱150 per day. From there, ask around where you can ride a boat going to Funtastic Island.
If there’s a song about Cebu that can hit us with intense Nostalgia, it would be the viral “Karaan nga Cebu.”
The song is written and performed by Cyrustanley, featuring Iping Amores. As the title suggests, the song revolves around how Cebuanos lived and how Cebu used to be before the pandemic. The song is catchy and has a nice beat to it. But what’s even better is that the lyrics exceptionally bring Sugboanons back to the past.
Cebu city skyline across body of water during sunset | Photo from Unsplash
“Tara mang lakaw ta, balikan ta, ang Cebu sauna” This is one of the lines from the song, as if the artists are calling fellow Cebuanos to reminisce about Cebu pre-covid. Not only that, but the lyrics also feature the famous delicacies of Cebu, like Lechon, Tuslob Buwa, and Siomai sa Tisa.
The song’s simplicity and genuineness are what made Sugboanons love it. It is a nudge to the everyday lives and escapades of the people living in the Queen City of the South.
However, the line that really stuck was “Kay sa akong pagmata, nahi-subo sa nakaplagan, naghinuktok sa akong kama, ngano kini damgo ra man?.” Those words embody how being able to experience Cebu was like a fever dream during the lockdown. If we’re being honest, we spent most of our days lying on our bed, thinking about when we could finally go out again.
Give these talented individuals the support they need and stream their song. Listen to the song here.
