Welcome to Bantayan Island! The land of stunning beaches and clear waters welcomes all walks of life for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
This island in Cebu features different views and activities for those willing to explore and adventure.
Photo from Donabel Sue Vasquez
Its newest spot is the Gilingan Rock, a formation found at Hilantagaan, Santa Fe, Bantayan Island.
Photo from Donabel Sue Vasquez
Carved by time and the elements, Gilingan Rock is a breathtaking natural wonder that adds another must-visit destination to Bantayan Island’s list of attractions.
A War-Torn Legacy
What makes Gilingan Rock even more fascinating is its history. During World War II, this solid rock formation was bombed, leaving it fractured and reshaped by the forces of war.
Photo from Canva
Over the decades, nature has continued its work, softening the harsh marks of destruction and turning the site into a unique and picturesque landmark.
Today, visitors marvel at its jagged edges and panoramic coastal views, a true testament to resilience and beauty emerging from history’s scars.
A Place for Adventure Seekers and Nature Lovers
Aside from its past, Gilingan Rock is also an exciting spot for exploration.
The rock formation offers stunning ocean views, making it a perfect place for photography enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Photo from Donabel Sue Vasquez
Climbing up its rugged terrain provides a rewarding vantage point where the blue waters of Bantayan stretch endlessly into the horizon.
For those who enjoy the thrill of the sea, the nearby waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The clear, turquoise waters surrounding Gilingan Rock make it an inviting spot to cool off after a day of island-hopping.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Hilantagaan Island, Santa Fe, Bantayan
By Commute: To reach Hilantagaan Island by commute, start your journey in Cebu City, which you can access by bus. From the North Bus Terminal, take a bus to Hagnaya Port, which takes about 3 to 4 hours.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, head north from Cebu City via the Cebu North Road, following signs to Hagnaya Port, which takes roughly 3 to 4 hours. At Hagnaya, you can park your car at the port and buy a ferry ticket to Santa Fe, Bantayan Island.
After arriving at Hagnaya, purchase a ferry ticket to Santa Fe, Bantayan Island, with a travel time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Once you reach Santa Fe, hire a local boat for a quick 15 to 20-minute ride to Hilantagaan Island.
For history buffs and adventure junkies out there, make sure to visit Gilingan Rock on Bantayan Island.
Don’t miss the chance to witness this rock formation’s beauty and its story of transformation.
Lights, camera, freedom! The annual Five Films for Freedom campaign is back, bringing powerful LGBTQIA+ stories to the global stage.
A partnership between the British Council and BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival, this initiative amplifies voices that challenge norms, break barriers, and celebrate authenticity.
This year’s lineup features five incredible short films from around the world, each retelling stories of self-discovery, love, and resilience.
And to make things even more exciting, the program also features an award-winning short film by a Filipino filmmaker.
Ready to dive into these must-watch films? Let’s roll.
1. Dragfox (UK): A Stop-Motion Journey of Self-Discovery
What happens when an 11-year-old child questioning their gender meets a mischievous, wise-cracking fox in drag?
Dragfox, directed by Lisa Ott, takes us on a whimsical, stop-motion adventure where young Sam learns to embrace their truest self.
Why Watch?
Voiced by the legendary Ian McKellen
A heartwarming mix of musical fantasy and queer storytelling
A celebration of self-expression, proving that “You can’t get being happy wrong”
2. If I Make It to the Morning (USA/China): Family, Secrets, and a Silent Goodbye
A single dinner can change everything. Andre Shen’s emotional drama follows Ziyi, a Chinese teenager touring colleges with her overbearing mother.
Staying with her progressive aunt in New York, she begins to imagine a future where she can finally be herself—until an unexpected conversation shifts the atmosphere.
Why Watch?
A subtle yet powerful portrayal of Asian familial expectations
A pivotal dinner scene where silence speaks louder than words
A stunningly emotional fireworks-lit moment that will stay with you
3. NGGAK!!! (Indonesia): Love in the Digital Age, But at What Cost?
Love, memes, and video games—sounds like the perfect relationship, right?
For Sekar and Bebi, their bliss is shattered when Sekar’s mother calls with devastating news: she’s being set up for an arranged marriage.
Directed by Oktania Hamdani and Winner Wijaya, this film captures the tension between tradition and identity in Indonesia’s conservative society.
Why Watch?
A unique storytelling format that blends screen recordings and real-time chats
A raw, emotional take on coming out in a conservative family
A stark look at the “exorcism” of LGBTQIA+ individuals in certain cultures
4. We’ll Go Down in History (UK): The Game-Changing Trans Football Club
Who says football isn’t for everyone? TRUK United, a UK-based trans football team, is on a mission to prove otherwise.
This documentary by Cameron Richards and Charlie Tidmas follows the highs and lows of the club’s journey, showing how sports can be a refuge in a world rife with discrimination.
Why Watch?
A real-life story about breaking barriers in sports
Features inspiring trans athletes fighting for inclusivity
A bold stand against rising transphobia in the UK and beyond
5. Wait, Wait, Now! (New Zealand): When the Closet Becomes a Stage
For best friends Alex and Sam, a quiet night at home turns into a glamorous runway of self-expression.
But when their parents unexpectedly return, will their secret world come crashing down? Directed by Ramon Te Wake, this film perfectly captures the euphoria of queer joy—and the fear of losing it.
Why Watch?
A heartfelt exploration of queer teenage experiences
A visually stunning drag performance scene
Ends with an unexpected twist—parents who steal the show
Special Feature: The Filipino Masterpiece “The River That Never Ends”
A bonus treat for Filipino audiences: JT Trinidad’s“The River That Never Ends” is making waves in the global film scene, winning accolades at Berlin NewGen, Singapore International Film Festival, and JOGJA NETPAC.
Set in a changing riverside town, the film follows Baby, a transwoman juggling work as a companion-for-hire while caring for her aging father. As the city transforms, Baby begins to realize that she, too, is being left behind.
Why Watch?
A powerful commentary on trans identity and urban isolation
Stunning cinematography that blends realism with poetic storytelling
A Filipino director making a global impact
Watch Five Films for Freedom Online
Didn’t make it to the screening in Cebu? You can still be part of the movement. Watch all five films for free online through the British Council website at Five Films For Freedom | British Council Arts.
Experience these powerful stories, share them with others, and stand in solidarity with LGBTQIA+ communities worldwide.
The Five Films for Freedom is ultimately a celebration of diverse narratives and a reminder of cinema’s power to spark empathy, courage, and change.
It doesn’t matter if you’re an ally or part of the LGBTQIA+ community, these films will leave you reflecting on the true meaning of freedom.
So, ready to be inspired? Grab your popcorn and let’s watch history unfold on the big screen.
Meet the 5 Guardians of Alegria, a mind-boggling underwater attraction that has divers and explorers hooked.
Who put them there? What do they mean? The mystery just adds to the thrill of the dive.
The Mystery Behind the 5 Guardians of Alegria
Alegria, a coastal town in southern Cebu, is already a treasure trove of natural wonders… from majestic waterfalls and lush hiking trails to thriving coral reefs.
However, in recent years, an enigmatic new attraction has surfaced: five life-sized statues resting beneath the ocean waves.
Local legend tells of a mysterious traveler who once settled in Alegria and sculpted the five figures: Poseidon, Medusa, a Templar Knight, Buddha, and Mother Mary.
Why he created them and what they symbolize remains unknown. Some believe the statues were meant to guard the coastal town from harm, while others think they serve as protectors of the marine ecosystem.
Adding to the intrigue, it is said that a Catholic priest once blessed the relics before mysteriously vanishing. The statues then disappeared–only to be rediscovered in 2020 within the coral-rich waters of Santa Filomena.
A Diver’s Dream: Exploring the Underwater Guardians
For those eager to uncover the secrets of the 5 Guardians, Alegria Dive Resort offers the perfect gateway to this submerged wonder. Located just 25 kilometers from Moalboal, the resort caters to both seasoned and novice divers alike.
Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a surreal underwater experience, swimming alongside vibrant marine life and the enigmatic stone figures that have become an artificial reef teeming with aquatic biodiversity.
Aside from its thrilling dive adventures, Alegria Dive Resort provides PADI-certified diving courses, snorkeling excursions, and comfortable accommodations for travelers who wish to extend their stay.
With its crystal-clear waters and thriving marine ecosystem, the dive site surrounding the 5 Guardians of Alegria is a must-visit for underwater enthusiasts.
Experience the Magic of Alegria
Alegria remains one of Cebu’s best-kept secrets, an oasis untouched by mass tourism yet brimming with rich natural and cultural beauty.
Hopefully, the mystique of the 5 Guardians in this coastal town will offer you an unforgettable escape. If not, you have other stops to visit at Alegria.
Photo from Aira Queency Bontilao
Have you encountered other hidden gems in Cebu?
Share your discoveries with us on social media and let’s continue unveiling the wonders of our beautiful islands!
What if a cat could predict when someone was about to pass away?
Photo from Steere House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Official Facebook Page
It sounds like the plot of a mystical movie, but for Oscar, a feline resident at Steere House Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Rhode Island, it was simply a part of his daily rounds.
For 17 years, this unassuming piebald cat comforted the dying, offering them quiet companionship in their final hours.
Photo from Steere House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Official Facebook Page
It wasn’t long before the staff at Steere House noticed something remarkable–Oscar only sought out patients who were at the very end of life, curling up beside them as if standing vigil.
In over 100 cases, his predictions were eerily accurate… Here’s what we know about Oscar!
The Mysterious Beginnings of a Special Cat
Photo from Steere House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Official Facebook Page
When Oscar arrived at Steere House in 2005, he wasn’t exactly the social butterfly of the feline world.
He was aloof, preferred solitude, and often sought refuge in supply closets or under beds. Unlike the other therapy cats, he had little interest in receiving affection from residents or staff. But then, something changed.
Oscar began making unexpected visits to certain patients, settling down beside them in bed or sitting by their window.
What seemed like random feline behavior soon revealed a pattern: within hours of his visits, the residents he chose to spend time with would pass away.
At first, the staff thought it was a coincidence. Once it happened 20, then 30, then over 100 times, they knew Oscar possessed an extraordinary ability.
So reliable was his sense that when Oscar settled with a patient, the staff would call their family, giving them precious time to say goodbye.
The Explanation Behind the Special Ability
Photo from Steere House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Official Facebook Page
The question that perplexed doctors, researchers, and pet lovers alike was: how did Oscar know when death was near?
Dr. David Dosa, a geriatrician at Steere House, speculated that Oscar might be detecting biochemical changes in the body. As cells begin to break down, they release specific scents that animals with heightened senses–like cats–might be able to perceive.
Similar to how dogs can sniff out cancer, Oscar may have had a keen ability to sense when the body was shutting down.
Others believe there may be a deeper, more intuitive connection at play. Some even likened him to a spiritual guardian, offering solace to those transitioning from life.
Regardless of the scientific explanations, Oscar’s presence brought comfort, not fear.
Families expressed gratitude for his silent companionship, finding peace in the idea that their loved ones weren’t alone in their final moments.
The Enduring Legacy of the Extraordinary Gift
Photo from Steere House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Official Facebook Page
Over the years, Oscar’s story gained worldwide attention. Dr. Dosa chronicled his incredible gift in his book, Making Rounds with Oscar: The Extraordinary Gift of an Ordinary Cat.
In 2022, after 17 years of service, Oscar passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, mystery, and comfort.
Though no other cat has been documented with such an ability, Oscar’s story reminds us of the profound ways animals can touch our lives–even in death.
Whether you believe Oscar had a scientific gift, a spiritual calling, or simply a unique habit, one thing is undeniable: he made a difference. And in the end, isn’t that what truly matters?
How about other cat lovers out there? Have you noticed any special abilities from your feline besties?
Tired of swiping left on dating apps? Maybe matchmaking is the perfect solution for you.
Just like the upcoming A24 Film Materialists, matchmaking is the premium service sought after by many bachelors. This will soon expose the lengths to which men are willing to go just to find the love of their love.
But what if this isn’t just a fictional story? What if premium matchmaking services were already a reality?
Well, they are—right here in Cebu!
Matchmaking in Materialists and Cebu
In Materialists, Lucy is a high-end matchmaker in New York City, catering to wealthy clients who are willing to invest in love.
The film explores the complexities of love, status, and personal desires within the matchmaking industry.
Cebu, surprisingly, mirrors this premise in real life. Just like Lucy’s clients, many foreign men seek professional matchmaking services to find love, and Cebu is one of the premier destinations for such services.
There are also agencies that specialize in connecting foreign bachelors with Filipinas who are open to serious relationships and marriage.
Why Cebu Is the Ideal Matchmaking Destination
Photo from Pexels
Cebu has become a hotspot for matchmaking services because of its welcoming culture, strong English proficiency, and reputation for having some of the most beautiful and family-oriented women in the world.
Similar to how Lucy’s services are sought after by elites in Materialists, Cebu’s matchmaking industry attracts men who are serious about finding love without the unpredictability of modern dating apps.
Photo from Pexels
The Cebu Matchmaking Experience
Singles Vacations & Socials
Just like the exclusive weddings Lucy attends in Materialists, matchmaking services in Cebu offer social events where foreign men can meet multiple potential partners in an elegant setting.
Personal Introductions
Instead of swiping left and right, clients receive one-on-one matchmaking with handpicked partners who align with their preferences and values.
Luxurious Accommodations & Tours
The matchmaking experience is a full-package journey, including city tours, luxurious accommodations, and assistance with cultural integration.
Verified & Authentic Matches
Unlike the uncertainties of dating apps, Cebu’s matchmaking agencies verify all profiles, ensuring serious and genuine relationships.
Reality Meets Romance
Photo from Pexels
While Materialists explores the ups and downs of high-end matchmaking, Cebu’s services offer a tangible, real-world alternative for those tired of the dating app culture.
It doesn’t matter if you’re an elite businessman or someone still healing from the past, there’s a place for you in Cebu’s matchmaking scene.
So, if you’re ready to trade endless swiping for a premium matchmaking experience… Cebu might just be the place where you find your happily ever after.
Ever wondered what German coffee tastes like? HueMann is Cebu’s first café inspired by German coffee culture, and it’s making waves in the city’s coffee scene.
Looking for a nature trip right around the corner? Cebu got you covered!
Photo by Zidkenu Burda
Nature never disappoints–the Libo Hills in Barangay Lepanto, Alegria is proof of that.
This hidden gem is the perfect getaway for those seeking fresh air and breathtaking views.
Who knows… maybe a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life is just what you need amid this hot weather.
A Scenic Escape Like No Other
Photo from Nate Daichi Kaizen YamashitaPhoto from Nate Daichi Kaizen Yamashita
Tucked away in the highlands of Alegria, Libo Hills is often called the “Little Baguio of Alegria” due to its cool climate and foggy ambiance.
The rolling landscapes, rustic charm, and panoramic views make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, campers, and adventure seekers.
Libo Hills might just be the best place for you to rest your heart and calm your mind.
Best Reasons to Visit
Still not convinced? Well, here are our suggested activities for travelers!
Photo from Nate Daichi Kaizen Yamashita
First things first–the enchanting Horse Area, where you can explore scenic trails without spending a single peso. As you wander through, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views that overlook lush valleys, rolling hills, and picturesque countryside.
This location is perfect for camping and picnics, allowing you to enjoy an overnight stay under the stars or a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.
Photo from Nate Daichi Kaizen Yamashita
For wildlife enthusiasts, the area offers fantastic opportunities for birdwatching, where you can spot local bird species and diverse plant life in this untouched paradise.
With all of these activities, you’re bound to find a perfect match for your travel vibes. Hopefully, you’ll be going with the right company too!
Travel Tips for Tourists
Photo from Nate Daichi Kaizen YamashitaPhoto from Nate Daichi Kaizen Yamashita
Now that you’re well aware of the things you can do. It’s time to plan ahead to avoid mishaps and other difficulties during your visit.
Before anything else, always check the weather before heading out to ensure clear skies and great views.
Meanwhile, it’s also important to engage with locals. While we are here to suggest, it’s still important to consult with the people around the area so they can provide insights and guide you to the best spots.
Don’t forget to bring essentials such as food, water, and camping gear if you plan to stay overnight.
LAST BUT NOT THE LEAST: leave no trace! Together, let’s help keep Libo Hills clean and preserve its natural beauty.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Libo Hills, Lepanto, Alegria, Cebu
By Commute: Take a bus bound for Alegria from the South Bus Terminal in Cebu City. Upon arrival, hire a local habal-habal (motorcycle) or tricycle to take you to Libo Hills.
By Car: Drive south from Cebu City via Cebu South Road. Upon reaching Alegria, head toward Barangay Lepanto—signs and locals will guide you.
With this destination that offers peace, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure, Libo Hills is just the perfect escape for you.
So, pack your bags, embrace the cool mountain breeze, and let nature work its magic on you.
Have you been to Libo Hills? Share your experience with us!
Experience Awesome Intelligence with the latest Samsung Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G, allowing you to juggle your work, school, and lifestyle seamlessly in one device.
Samsung has finally dropped the new Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G phones, powered by Samsung’s groundbreaking Awesome Intelligence feature, making mobile AI for everyone via the Galaxy A Series.
Joining the Awesome release of the Galaxy A56 and A36, stars of the hit web series Ang Mutya ng Section E, Ashtine Olviga and Andres Muhlach, reveal how Awesome Intelligence has helped them juggle their newfound celebrity status with their everyday lives, showcasing how the Galaxy A series is the ultimate tool for keeping everything in balance.
With cutting-edge AI features like Circle to Search by Google, Enhanced Object Eraser, and Best Face (exclusive to the Galaxy A56), these latest devices in the Galaxy A series are designed to empower the youth in countless ways—whether it’s for content creation like Ashtine or boosting productivity like Andres.
Uncover exciting ways to empower creativity and a balanced lifestyle
After the immediate impact of their web series,Ashtine and Andres are now getting new projects left and right, and with that, new challenges to face. As a young actress, singer, former P-pop idol, and content creator – Ashtine is the definition of this era’s multi-talented it-girl. Meanwhile, Andres, an up-and-coming leading man, has taken his time carving out his unique path as the nation’s newest heartthrob. Many wonder: how are they handling everything?
Ashtine and Andres reveal their latest secret: Awesome Intelligence from Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G’s star AI features. Powered by One UI 7.0, Awesome Intelligence packs the standard of cool, easy-to-use AI tools that anyone can use in their daily tasks.
For our dream boy Andres, his favorite Awesome Intelligence feature is Circle to Search with Google. “Since I’d like to improve my Filipino, whenever I read my script I can circle it and get the translation instantly. I wouldn’t have to go on Google Translate to find the translation. I can just search it right on the spot,” he shared.
Capture a new era of content creation with Awesomeness
With her busy schedule and other showbiz commitments, fans are able to get a peek into Ashtine’s life offscreen through her daily vlogs. When it comes to capturing those moments, she’s all about the new camera experience in the Galaxy A series, with its powerful triple-camera system, including a 50MP main lens, 10-bit HDR front lens for bright, crisp selfies, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens on the Galaxy A56 5G.
Best Face, an exclusive Galaxy A56 AI feature, makes group photos a breeze by picking the best expressions from a motion photo. “I really like the Best Face feature because that’s really the problem with group photos, especially when I’m there. I can choose a better face angle for my photo,” Ashtine shared.
Ashtine expressed her amazement with the Enhanced Object Eraser, saying goodbye to unwanted objects in pictures just by circling them on the phone and erasing them. “I also liked the Enhanced Object Eraser because I like to take pictures wherever I can, so it’s a big deal to be able to edit out those things,”she commented.
Unleash peak performance and enjoy a longer battery life
Andres, a mobile gamer, was impressed by how much his gameplay is now smoother than ever with the Galaxy A56 5G’s Exynos 1580 chipset and the Galaxy A36’s Snapdragon® 6 Gen 3 Mobile Platform.
Both Ashtine and Andres were also impressed with the Galaxy A56 and A36’s Super Fast Charge 2.0 technology support for 45W faster charging.
“Of course, because the battery is also long-lasting. I can use it for everyday use, especially when our schedule is busy. It’s so perfect that I don’t even think about running out of power,” Ashtine said.
Both the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G also have an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, along with advanced Corning® Glass, making them tougher and more durable than ever.
Aesthetic colors and safer browsing perfect for Gen Zs
For young people like Ashtine and Andres, it’s all about the #aesthetic. Ashtine was blown away by the new slim design of the Galaxy A56 and A36. Meanwhile, Andres loves that the edges are not too round, making it seamless to the touch.
Aside from the phone’s new design, the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G are also equipped with One UI 7.0 security and privacy upgrades, along with Samsung Knox, which provides security and protection for your sensitive data.
Ecstatic to be the new #TeamGalaxy members in class, Ashtine and Andres can’t wait to dive in and see what’s ahead. “I’m thrilled to be part of Team Galaxy, and experiencing Awesome Intelligence first hand with the latest Galaxy A series. I’m very excited, especially knowing that Samsung is leading the way for mobile AI to be accessible to all, ” said Andres.
Ashtine also couldn’t hide her excitement as she spoke about this milestone moment in her career. “It’s honestly such a big moment for me since this is my first endorsement, and I’m just so happy to be here. The support has been unreal, and I’m ready to take on this new chapter with the Galaxy A series, especially its Awesome Intelligence features!”
Find out how you can balance your busy schedule with the new Galaxy A series. The Galaxy A56 5G is available in Awesome Light Gray, Awesome Graphite, and Awesome Pink while you can grab the Galaxy A36 5G in Awesome Lavender, Awesome Black, and Awesome White at Samsung Experience Stores and partner retailers, and in the Samsung Online Store.
You may also purchase a P250 e-voucher to get a P1,500 discount on the Galaxy A56 and A36 through Samsung Reservation+. Vouchers are selling only until March 28, 2025, and can be redeemed at samsung.com starting March 28. For more information visit: http://smsng.co/ASeries-ReservationPlus(DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-217776 Series of 2025)
Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.
Ah inita uy! Aside from the rising heat index under the sun, the same heat can be found online.
Photo from Pexels
With heated discussions and arguments on social media, you may find yourself filled with anger–hotheaded in every sense of the word.
The current political climate has become more polarizing than ever, often leading to tension in friendships. Supporting different causes and politicians can create divides that challenge the bonds between friends.
Photo from Pexels
Still, how do you deal with different opinions and stances? To friend or unfriend on Facebook… that is the question.
Patronage Politics and Political Divide
Cebu is a hotbed for different political views ranging from right-wing supporters to leftists. Aside from these ideologies, there are also Cebuanos who are simply fond of politicians.
Photo from Pexels
This is commonly found in patronage politics, where voters support candidates based on material benefits and patronage.
Rooted in the complex networks of political families, clientelistic relationships, and political machinery, this phenomenon often leads to unconditional support for candidates-turned-politicians who citizens believe will serve them.
However, this may lead to an intense political divide among Cebuanos. Why, you may ask? Because of varying stances on the policies and governance of politicians, a polarizing effect among the citizens emerges.
This has become even more evident with the recent updates in the political realm. In fact, national politics and international relations directly affect Cebuanos regardless of who they support or what they advocate for.
From Facebook Friends to Friendship Over?
With the intensification of the political divide among Cebuanos, some may see this seeping into their friendships. One may say that you are who you surround yourself with, so some differences are bound to end up in fights or worse… friendship over.
Photo from Pexels
The topic of politics is a serious one, especially in dealing with policy-making and human rights, so it’s important to take things into consideration in applying this to friendships.
If you ever find your friend whose political views you don’t necessarily align with, ask yourself: is my friend worth struggling with? More so, is your political views worth struggling for?
If yes, then you might as well engage in discussion–not trolling nor bashing–to learn where each side is coming from. Who knows? You might find yourself understanding their stances without compromising your own.
After engaging in a single discussion, misunderstandings may still arise because it is hard for people to question their own beliefs and unlearn their stances. So, what you need to do is to remain tireless and immerse yourself in ceaseless persuasion.
In doing so, you might be able to support your friends in the right direction and tighten the bond that you two share.
Politics, after all, is not only a matter of governance–it affects personal lives too!
Tireless and Ceaseless in Struggling and Uniting
At the end of the day, your friendship is only a microcosm of a larger system out there. Whatever tension you might share, it only reflects the larger problem in Cebu and the Philippines.
Navigating friendships amidst political differences can be challenging, yet it is essential for fostering understanding and unity.
Remember that the bonds you share with friends reflect broader societal issues, so continue to struggle and unite.
Photo from Pexels
So, before you decide to click “unfriend,” take a moment to consider the value of those connections and the potential for growth.
Shoutout sa mga solo parents diyan! Nak, ano ulam?
True enough, solo parenting comes with its own set of challenges. But the good thing is that Mandaue City is stepping up to provide much-needed financial relief.
This initiative is designed to help lighten the financial load of raising children alone while ensuring that solo parents have access to basic necessities and opportunities.
A Bold Step Toward Financial Support
Mandaue City Councilor Jimmy Lumapas, the chairperson of the Committee on Social Service, has spearheaded the Solo Parents P1,000 Monthly Cash Subsidy Allowance Ordinance.
Screenshot from Google Map
This measure, which passed the first reading, is expected to gain final approval soon with the backing of multiple council members.
The ordinance aligns with the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act (RA 11861), which ensurest that solo parents receive financial aid to support their children’s education, healthcare, and daily needs.
With an estimated 900 to 1,000 registered solo parents in the city, this initiative aims to make financial support more accessible to Mandauehanons.
How Will the Subsidy Work?
Once the ordinance is fully approved, the PHP 12,000 annual subsidy will be disbursed in two tranches.
The First tranche will allocate PHP 6,000 in June. Meanwhile, the Second tranche will be the remaining PHP 6,000 in November.
This system ensures that solo parents receive consistent support without overwhelming city resources at once. The city government has allocated PHP 1 million per month for the program, ensuring its sustainability.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the subsidy, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Be a registered solo parent in Mandaue City with completed documentary requirements under RA 11861.
Have been validated as a solo parent for the calendar year.
Have an income at or below the poverty threshold, as determined by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
Be a resident of any of Mandaue’s 27 barangays, certified by the barangay chairperson.
Be a registered voter in Mandaue City and have participated in the last two elections.
Not be receiving any other government financial assistance, except for senior citizen and PWD benefits.
How to Avail the Subsidy?
Solo parents who meet the criteria must submit the following documents:
Certificate of attendance from a solo parent orientation seminar
Barangay-issued certificate of residency
Affidavit from two disinterested persons verifying residency
Voter’s registration record
Certificate of no employment or BIR Form No. 2316 for employed individuals
Social case study report prepared by the City Social Welfare and Services
Solo parents who transfer to another city must secure a Certificate of Change of Residence to continue receiving benefits.
However, once a solo parent remarries, their eligibility for the subsidy will end.
Additional Perks for Solo Parents
Even if a solo parent does not qualify for the PHP 1,000 subsidy, they can still access other benefits through their Solo Parent ID.
These benefits include a 10% discount at select stores and a 20% discount at partner educational institutions.
Councilor Lumapas emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “Raising a child, especially one in school, is no easy task. We hope this P1,000 monthly aid provides some relief to solo parents who need it the most.”
A Brighter Future for Solo Parents in Mandaue
This proposed ordinance only shows Mandaue City’s commitment to social welfare and community support.
By acknowledging the financial struggles of solo parents and offering tangible assistance, the city is creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for families.
With the expected approval of this measure, solo parents can look forward to a future with fewer financial worries and greater opportunities for themselves and their children.
How about you? Are you looking forward to applying for this subsidy?
