This “Mental Health Awareness Month,” the BTS Army is setting their support high around the Philippines.
Ca-amp Bangtan shared on their social media that as part of the “Purple Walk of Love” event, they will be lighting up the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) in purple to advocate for mental health awareness. This event, scheduled for September 7 and 8, 2024 at 6PM to 10PM, is a powerful display of solidarity. Fans of the global K-pop sensation BTS, known for their commitment to social causes, are coming together to use the iconic bridge as a canvas for their message.
Purple, the color chosen for this event, symbolizes support for mental health and is a nod to the BTS fan base, or the “ARMY.” By lighting up the CCLEX, they aim to draw attention to mental health issues, reduce stigma, and encourage open conversations about mental well-being.
So, Sugboanons, when you pass by CCLEX on the said dates, make sure to capture its beautiful lights and remember that what you’re seeing is not just a visual spectacle, but also a call to action in support for those in need of a lending ear. And if you want to join in on the advocacy, walk with the ARMY this coming September 8, 2024
In the Queen City of the South, a huge shift in primary health care is underway as Clinica Prime rises to the occasion in offering international standard care.
The Cebu-based holding company, the LH Paragon Group (LHPI), announced the rebranding of their healthcare subsidiary, Keralty Prime Cebu, Inc. (KPCI) to CLINICA PRIME CEBU, INC. (CPCI) effective last month, August 2024. The group became a fully Filipino-owned proprietary brand and is aiming to become the top in providing holistic patient-centered care across the Philippines!
We are ready to build and grow our own Filipino brand of primary health care, for the Filipino and by the Filipino
Edmun H. Liu, CLINICA PRIME Chairman and LHPI Group CFO
Established in 2004, the LH Paragon Group has continuously strengthened itself over the past four (4) years after partnering with Spain-based Keralty Global in 2020. The reason for Keralty’s exit from the Philippine-market is for them to focus on the US, Europe, and the Americas, marking an opening for LHPI’s opportunity to take over its shareholdings. Now with a renewed commitment and agreement, CLINICA PRIME is set as a 100% Filipino-owned brand with products and services comparable with the best around the world.
Photo from Clinica PrimePhoto from Clinica Prime
Continuing the Vision of a Patient-Centered Community
Photo from Clinica Prime
CLINICA PRIME is not just about high standards; it’s also about accessibility and maintaining a patient-centered community, providing all-around patient care, from adolescent wellness to geriatric care that’s tailored to each patient’s specialized needs.
It’s a collective journey to wellness and we take each step with our patients’ well-being in mind, in whatever stage of life they are in.
Dr. Bryan Albert T. Lim, CPCI President and Chief Medical Officer
Delivering accessible and effective high quality care is essential in every part of CLINICA PRIME’s vision and mission. Currently, they have three (3) multi-specialty clinics in Mandaue, Consolacion, and Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu with more expansions in the coming years to even greater strategic areas.
A Promising Future for Health Care in Cebu
With its grand opening, Clinica Prime marks the beginning of a new era in Filipino primary health care. And, as it continues to grow and evolve, it promises to be a beacon of excellence in the industry, championing the cause of improved health outcomes for all.
For us Sugboanons, this is more than just a new clinic; it’s a significant step towards a healthier and brighter future.
On September 4, 2024, Daisy Villa, the Head of Cebu City’s Health Department, emphasized the need to prepare quarantine facilities at the North Reclamation Area, also known as the Cebu City Quarantine Center (CCQC), in anticipation of potential MPOX cases.
Photo from Cebu City Public Information Office
Villa stressed that unlike during the initial COVID-19 surge when schools were used as quarantine centers, it’s crucial to use dedicated isolation facilities now to effectively contain the virus.
Photo from Cebu City Public Information Office
Meanwhile, City Councilor Jocelyn “Joy” Pesquera, Chairperson of the Committee on Health, expressed confidence that the Cebu City Medical Center is equipped to handle MPOX patients, including suspected cases. She noted that the Department of Health has been actively providing updates and information about MPOX in the Philippines, and reassured the public that there is no need to panic at this stage, as it is not yet an outbreak.
On the evening of September 4, 2024, residents of Cagayan were left astounded when the night sky lit up as an asteroid passed by before hitting our planet.
Screengrab from netizen Allan Madelar’s video of the falling asteroid
Asteroid 2024 RW1 was 1.3 meters in size and was the ninth asteroid that humankind has witnessed zooming past our skies before touchdown, approximately 3,140 km for its closest approach to Earth. The space agency confirmed that the asteroid was harmless due to its small size.
The asteroid, about 1 meter in size, was detected only hours before impact by NASA’s Catalina Sky Survey. Upon entry, it created a stunning fireball, visible across the skies of northern Luzon
PAGASA
In addition, the space agency also advised that there will be more to come with around the same size, every two weeks. According to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory of NASA, the next one will be on September 6, 2024, named the “2024 RF,” with a size comparison of a house measuring about 15 meters and will have a close proximity to our planet at 4,760,000 kilometers.
Screengrab from NASA
Beliefs Surrounding Asteroids & Celestial Objects
Many were in awe upon seeing the video captured by one netizen in Cagayan showing the asteroid’s fall. Some commented how the phenomenon reminded them of an animated movie entitled “Your Name,” while others shared their thoughts and beliefs about falling celestial objects. Why? Well, simply because in the olden times, and in some cultures nowadays, asteroids are considered harbingers of doom or good luck, depending on the belief. Some say that it’s a message from the gods, while others will head over to where the asteroid hits and take some parts of it as it is a tool for healing.
But, regardless, asteroids and celestial objects are truly a rare beauty of nature that if we witness them on our skies, we should take in the moment as it can be once in a lifetime.
Photo from Canva
So, Sugboanons, if you wanna learn more about asteroids, then visit NASA’s website and their live asteroid tracker; it’ll surely blow your mind knowing what may come next and when it will arrive.
Sugboanons, aside from having our own Cebu island bag the “Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination” award, we also got two hotel chains grabbing wins from the prestigious awarding ceremony of the “World Travel Awards 2024!”
Photo from the Department of Tourism Philippines
Philippines’ Leading Business Hotel 2024: bai Hotel Cebu
Photo from Bai Hotel Cebu
bai Hotel Cebu was honored as the “Philippines’ Leading Business Hotel 2024.” The hotel is located strategically between Mandaue and Cebu City, making it a great choice for travelers seeking comfort and efficiency.
Photo from Bai Hotel Cebu
Philippines’ Leading Family Resort 2024: Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu
Photo from Shangri-La Mactan Resort
In another significant recognition, Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu was named “Philippines’ Leading Family Resort 2024.” This luxurious resort continues to be a favorite among families and groups, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and exceptional service along its stunning beachfront setting.
Photo from Shangri-La Mactan Resort
These awards show Cebu’s growing reputation as a premier destination for both business and leisure travelers. With our island’s outstanding hotels and beautiful wedding venues, Cebu is truly making waves on the global stage. Once again, congratulations to bai Hotel Cebu and Shangri-La Mactan for bringing these prestigious honors to our island and to us, Sugboanons!
Photo from the World Travel Awards Official Website
Sugboanons, our beloved Cebu has been honored at the World Travel Award as “Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination 2024,” proving its growing appeal as a top location for dream weddings.
Photo by Reymund Mejica Requina
The 31st Annual World Travel Awards was hosted in our very own country, the Philippines, on September 3, 2024, at the City of Dreams in Manila. It is a recognition that serves to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.
Photo from Soulful StudioPhoto from Point 1998
The Winners: Asia’s Leading …
The gala was filled with successful celebrations as winners were announced to determine who’s the best amongst the rest in the field of travel. For Asia, below are the places who ranked high:
Vietnam: “Asia’s Leading Destination”
Ha Giang Province: “Asia’s Leading Regional Cultural Destination”
Ho Chi Minh City: “Asia’s Leading Business Travel Destination”
Hong Kong Tourism Board: “Asia’s Leading Tourist Board”
Cebu, Philippines: “Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination”
Bali: “Asia’s Most Romantic Destination”
Cebu’s recognition as “Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination 2024” invites couples to explore its enchanting offerings and experience a wedding that combines beauty, culture, and unparalleled service.
Photo from Carlo AbaquitaPhoto by Reymund Mejica Requina
Aside from the “World Travel Awards,” our own island is also nominated for “Most Desirable Region” by a UK Magazine! To show your support, cast your votes here, Sugboanons!
September is a special month for maritime enthusiasts and environmental advocates as it marks the celebration of MANAMo, the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month. This annual event showcases the importance of protecting our seas and promoting maritime safety. And for us Sugboanons, the Cebu Ports Authority (CPA) is the one spearheading the series of impactful activities aimed at boosting marine life and fostering maritime awareness.
Photo from the Cebu Port Authority’s Official Facebook Page
Based on the calendar of events listed on the official MANA Mo 2024 website, here are the activities that the Cebu Ports Authority (CPA) will be conducting:
September 20, 2024: Simultaneous Coastal and Ports Clean-Up
Photo from the Cebu Port Authority’s Official Facebook Page
Kickstarting the month’s activities, Cebu will witness a massive clean-up drive involving both public and private ports for a coordinated effort to clear our coastlines and port areas of debris and pollutants. This activity is crucial in preserving the marine environment and ensuring that our waters remain clean.
September 21, 2024: Mangrove Planting on Olango Island
Photo from the Cebu Port Authority’s Official Facebook Page
The focus shifts to one of the most essential ecosystems in the marine environment—mangroves. Volunteers and stakeholders will gather on Olango Island, Lapu-Lapu City, to engage in a mangrove planting activity as part of the goal to protect our coastal areas, provide habitat for marine life, and support biodiversity.
Photo from the Cebu Port Authority’s Official Facebook PagePhoto from the Cebu Port Authority’s Official Facebook Page
September 23, 2024: Opening Salvo of the National Maritime Week
Photo from the Cebu Port Authority’s Official Facebook Page
The celebration of the National Maritime Week will commence with a grand opening salvo at the CPA Sports Facility. This event will mark the beginning of a week dedicated to maritime awareness and activities, showcasing the commitment of the Cebu Ports Authority and its partners to maritime safety and environmental stewardship.
September 23, 2024: Simultaneous Blow of Ships’ Horns
Photo from the Cebu Port Authority’s Official Facebook Page
In a unique and symbolic gesture, ships across Cebu’s ports will simultaneously blow their horns for two minutes! This is to signal the start of the Maritime Week Celebration, highlighting the unity and solidarity of the maritime community in advocating for marine protection and awareness. This will also be followed by a culminating activity on September 27, 2024 at the CPA Sports Facility, CIP Complex, Cebu Baseport.
September 29, 2024: Wreath Laying Ceremony for Fallen Seafarers
Photo from the Cebu Port Authority’s Official Facebook Page
Concluding the MANA Mo 2024 activities, a solemn wreath-laying ceremony will be held to honor our fallen seafarers at the Tip Part of Passenger Building 2, Pier 3 of Cebu BasePort to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives at sea. This ceremony serves as a reminder of the risks faced by those who work on the waters and a remembrance to their sacrifice.
Photo from the Cebu Port Authority’s Official Facebook Page
Did you know that Cebu’s best kept secret is in Carmen?
Photo from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook Page
Yes, we couldn’t believe our eyes when we saw it too as with just a turn at a corner, we seemed to have been transported to a whole new country.
Located in Carmen, this private and exclusive luxury beach resort, Cebu Beach House and Villa, became our home for 3 days and 2 nights and we will share our memorable and restful experience here in this tell-all.
Mexican hacienda Homes
Photo from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook Page
We saw the pictures and we’ve read their website but nothing could have prepared us to the magnificence of the place in real life.
With the prominent hacienda architectural style that is common in Spain and Mexico, it felt like it wasn’t in the Philippines more so in Cebu.
These beautiful shade of orange villas we occupied had red clay roof tiles and uses heavy rustic wood accents to solidify the hacienda experience. You can wake up to the breathtaking view of the reflections of the trees and vast sky in the sparkling pool along with the view of the sea and the overall effect of the tint of orange in the atmosphere.
Photo from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook PagePhoto from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook PagePhoto from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook PagePhoto from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook Page
Mediterranean Vibes
Photo from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook Page
The place encourages a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere that you can definitely enjoy with your family and friends. It is reflected in the design of this style: from light outdoor furniture to wooden, forged and stone decor elements.
The Mediterranean style in interior design is characterized by simple and romantic aesthetics with light and warm tones in color scheme, as well as the extensive use of beautiful intricate wood pieces.
Sunny romance of Spain, the abundance of warm colors of Italy, the marine freshness of Greece and the spices of Morocco, the decoration in Mediterranean style will surely become the embodiment of all the above.
Photo from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook PagePhoto from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook PagePhoto from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook PagePhoto from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook PagePhoto from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook PagePhoto from Cebu Beach House and Villa Official Facebook Page
Food that are just a chef’s kiss
The open-plan kitchens of both The Beach House, The Beach Villa, and The Native Beach House are fully-fitted and well-stocked to whip up anything your heart desires. Should you decide to not lift a finger, a chef and five full time staff are around to cater to your needs. A menu is on-hand for suggestions and inspiration, while a local produce market is not too far away. Really, what you want to eat and when you want to eat are all up to you, and few private Cebu resorts have this arrangement on offer.
Your private chef is on-hand to cook a variety of mouth watering international dishes, from freshly caught crabs, to chicken madras curry, to home-made pasta, and pizzas in the wood-burning oven. We make an effort to source authentic (when available) international ingredients as well as the freshest local ingredients to create your tasty meals from scratch. We maintain a stock of food items such as fresh bread, pastas, milk, egg, and etc. as well as soft drinks, alcoholic beverages of various price ranges, and local beers. Drinks are kept at the right temperature, ready to be served as soon as you arrive.
All meals, food items, and beverages will be charged as consumed at very reasonable rates. While that special bottle of wine or champagne is exempted, a corkage applies on beverages brought in from outside the resort. Please contact us for our current stock list and/or let us know your preferences when you make your booking so we can stock accordingly.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
HOUSE RATES
Luxury Beach Villa: P30,000 per night, good for 15 persons
The Beach House: P25,000 per night, good for 8 persons
The Native Beach House: P6,000 per night, good for 2 persons
INCLUSIONS:
Welcome drinks upon arrival
Wifi access in all areas of the property
Use of sports equipment (i.e. mountain bikes & children’s kayaks)
1 private chef
5 full-time staff
OPTIONAL/ADDITIONAL:
Airport pick-up and/or drop off available (standard saloon or 9-seater van)
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Cebu Beach House Villa” in Carmen. Once you arrive in Carmen, from the south (Cebu City), turn right going to “Barangay Luyang” and just follow the road for about 5-10 minutes then you will find the beach house on your left. Parking space is available upon arrival. Don’t forget to make a reservation before going to the destination as they will assist you with the navigation, too.
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride any bus going to Carmen. Inform the driver to drop you off at Barangay Luyang in Carmen. Bus fare is ₱40 per person. From there, you can walk a little further going to the beach house. It’s best to communicate with the owner or property staff for transpo arrangements.
Heads up, travelers and foodies; NUSTAR is hosting their most awaited “Journey of Flavors” that offers tasty treats and luxurious prizes!
Photo from NUSTAR
The event not only promises delicious meals at discounted prices, but also gives you the chance to win luxurious trips for two to three of Asia’s most vibrant cities: Hong Kong, Singapore, and Narita; definitely an adventure that you wouldn’t want to miss!
Photo from NUSTAR
A Journey of Flavors
Photo from NUSTAR
NUSTAR’s “Journey of Flavors” is a celebration of cuisines, where every dish tells a story and every bite is a passport to a new destination. And, speaking of passports, the promotion grants each participant a “passport” that will bring each diner to different restaurants around the mall, such as:
ABACA Baking Company – Free coffee with every order of any Eggs Benedict (Smoked Ham, Slab Bacon, Smoked Salmon)
Barcino Wine Resto Bar – 5% discount on Paella Mixta con Azafran and Sangria pitcher (tinto or blanco) or a 10% discount on their Paella de Chorizo y Pollo and Sangria pitcher (tinto or blanco)
Cafe Laguna Cebu – 15% discount on the Crispy Pata Dish
Good Luck Hot Pot – 40% discount on the USA Angus Snowflake Beef Dish
Kazuwa Prime – 25% discount on 5 kinds of Sashimi Dishes
Koshima by Nonki – 20% discount on the Sushi Course
Yeonwha The Premium by Kaya – 20% discount on the Beef Stone Hot Pot Ser: 1 Beef Stone Hot Pot, 1 Beef Seaweed, 4pcs Beef Patties, 2 Rice, 2 Drinks, and Side Dishes
Taiwan Sha-bu Sha-bu – 15% discount on the Red House Group Set A which includes shrimps, lobsters, meatballs, beef, pork, and vegetables
Tom N Toms Coffee – Brunch Set Special which includes a choice of meat: bacon, ham, or sausage paired with a drink of choice whether Hot Americano, Iced Americano, Peach Iced Tea, Lemon Iced Tea.
Photo from NUSTAR
Win a Dream Trip for Two
The Journey of Flavors Passport
But here’s where it gets even more exciting: by participating in NUSTAR’s “Journey of Flavors,” you could win a dream trip to Hong Kong, Singapore, and Narita for you and a guest. That’s right—three incredible cities, all in one unforgettable getaway!
Photo from NUSTAR
So, how can you hop in on the journey? Well, here’s how:
Step 1: Present a single-receipt purchase of Php 3,000.00 at NUSTAR The Mall Concierge from any participating outlets of ABACA Baking Company, Barcino, Cafe Laguna, Good Luck Hot Pot, Kazuwa Prime, Koshima by Nonki, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar, Taiwan Sha-bu Sha-bu, Tom n Toms Coffee, and Yeonwha The Premium by Kaya. Upon presentation of the receipt, a passport will be given which contains the list of places that the passport-holder will have to go to to complete the stamps.
The Journey of Flavors Passport
Step 2: The passport-holder must order the Journey of Flavors special menu or dish from the participating stores to get a stamp.
Step 3: Completed passports should be presented and surrendered to The Mall Concierge.
Step 4: Completed passport-holders will pick from rolled prizes:
Two (2) roundtrip tickets for 2 via Cebu Pacific Cebu-Hongkong-Cebu
Two (2) roundtrip tickets for 2 via Cebu Pacific Cebu-Singapore-Cebu
Two (2) roundtrip tickets for 2 via Cebu Pacific Cebu-Narita-Cebu
Twenty (20) overnight stays for 2 with breakfasts at the Fili Hotel
Fifty (50) sets of NUSTAR Premier Cinema Pass valued at Php 500.00 and Timezone Passes valued at Php500.00
One-hundred (100) The Mall | NUSTAR branded luggage tags
Photo from NUSTARPhoto from NUSTAR
So what are you waiting for? Start your flavor journey today as the promo period only runs until September 15, 2024! Good luck, and may the best foodie wins, Sugboanons!
Sugboanons, we’ve got exciting news — DOON, a new and convenient car rental app, is now at Sugbo Mercado!
DOON is the Philippines’ first fully-insured peer-to-peer car sharing marketplace. Whether you’re looking to earn extra income by renting out your car or you need to rent a car for your next trip, DOON makes it happen with just a few clicks. The current state of car rentals in the Philippines leaves room for improvement, which is where this car rental app wants to step in. For car owners, vehicles tend to be an under-utilized, and a depreciating continuous expense. Did you know that the average car is parked 94% of the time? Instead of your car becoming a depreciating asset parked in your garage, you can list it on DOON to make some extra cash.
Looking for another source of income? Try renting out your car on DOON.
Earn Extra Income: By renting out your vehicle, you can turn an idle asset into a source of income.
Flexible Schedule: You have full control over when your car is available for rent. This flexibility allows you to rent out your car according to your schedule, ensuring that it doesn’t interfere with your personal use.
Easy to Manage: DOON is designed to make the rental process simple and hassle-free. You can easily manage bookings, track earnings, and communicate with renters directly through the platform.
Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: Thanks to DOON’s partnership with Pioneer Insurance, every trip booked through the app is insured, giving you the peace of mind that your car is protected against any potential damage or accidents.
Screened Renters: DOON’s thorough vetting process ensures that your car is rented out to responsible and verified individuals, reducing the risk of misuse or damage.
Host-Exclusive Benefits: Enjoy the benefits of Cartrack services, including real-time vehicle tracking, remote engine shutdown for theft prevention, and fuel consumption management. Plus, a free membership to the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) which offers emergency roadside assistance, fuel discounts, and discounted 24/7 ambulance service.
On top of all that, you keep 100% of your rental income. Now that sounds like a pretty good deal.
Let’s go DOON!
Experience the future of car rentals in Cebu. Visit DOON’s booth at Sugbo Mercado from August 13 to September 12, 2024, every Tuesday to Sunday. Their team will be happy to answer your questions and provide all the information you need to get started.
RATES & INFORMATION
Online Customer Service Operating Hours: 9AM to 6PM, Monday to Friday
