Treating yourself to a luxurious casino and staycation at NUSTAR Resort and Casino? Well, you won’t have to worry about commuting to go there. The establishment still offers free shuttle services for its guests.
Photo from NUSTAR Resort Facebook Page
NUSTAR Resort released its updated schedule for several pick-up points in the city. The shuttle services are on a first-come, first-serve basis. However, if you are a member, you get to enjoy priority boarding. See the updated schedule of each pick-up location below.
Ayala Center Cebu (Cardinal Rosales Ave, near Rustans’ Department Store
10:00 AM
2:00 PM
6:00 PM
10:00 PM
Robinsons Fuente (Main Entrance)
10:30 AM
2:30 PM
6:30 PM
10:20 PM
2:00 AM
Summit Galleria Cebu (Main Entrance)
11:10 AM
3:10 PM
7:10 PM
10:40 PM
2:00 AM
NUSTAR Resort & Casino (Casino Lobby)
1:20 PM
5:20 PM
9:30 PM
1:30 AM
Photo from NUSTAR Resort Facebook PagePhoto from NUSTAR Resort Facebook Page
To become a member, you can visit the membership counter at NUSTAR to sign up for FREE. If you have any questions or concerns, you may call the 24/7 shuttle hotline at 0968 859 9727.
Free shuttle service to the hotel? Now that’s quality service.
“NO EXCUSES!” Legally blind student from CNU passes the LET 2023 and graduates as cum laude with flying colors!
Cyril Bergado, a fresh graduate from Cebu Normal University, is an intelligent and hard-working cebuana who has a difficult time seeing, due to problems with her impaired vision.
Photo from Gino Sumalinog
Yet even with her condition, Cyril still faced life head-on and worked herself off and has now graduated cum laude from CNU.
Cyril recognized her strengths above her disabilities, even when times were tough.
An instance of her amazing talents is when she took her LET board exam, where people thought she needed to use braille in order to answer the questions, yet aced it with just simple dictation!
Photo from Gino Sumalinog Photo from Gino Sumalinog
In addition to this achievement, Cyril is also known to be active in extracurricular activities, such as role plays and events. Her teacher even put her in a “Special and Inclusive Education” class, was asked to make a report, and as expected by everyone, she got full marks.
Even though she was the only girl in her batch to have visual problems, she did not see this as a flaw and used this as a source of motivation to work harder.
Through it all, her mother was supportive of her, and would always be there for her after every class, often waiting for her to finish their discussion in order to talk or take her home. Motherly love sure can help a child reach such great heights!
Photo from Gino Sumalinog
In the end, Cyril achieved the fruits of her hard work, graduating cum laude and passing her teacher board exam. She really took the phrase “No excuses” seriously and made it look easy. It just goes to show that everyone should strive to be as diligent as her whenever life seemingly becomes strenuous at times.
Aside from long lines and unattentive staff, one of the most annoying things about getting a driver’s license is the expensive medical certificates. But don’t worry; LTO has some good news for you.
Photo from Merx Mercado
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) announced on May 22, 2023, that they are setting the medical examination fees at P300 pesos. The fee applies to accredited medical clinics and health facilities.
“Hindi po natin maisasantabi ang maraming reklamo kaugnay ng sobrang mahal ng pagkuha ng medical certificate na ang iba ay nagbabayad ng P500 hanggang P700. Mabigat na ang halaga na ito para sa ating mga ordinaryong mamamayan”,
FORMER LTO CHIEF JAY ART TUGADE STATED.
On the same day, Tugade also announced his resignation.
Photo from LTO Facebook Page
Moreover, the P300 fee will cover the tests needed by student drivers, new non-professional drivers, and new conductors, as well as those who will renew and upgrade their licenses from non-professional to professional drivers.
LTO also noted that facilities and clinics that do not comply with the order would face penalties and suspensions such as:
First Offense: Accreditation suspension for up to 90 days with a P10,000 fine
Second Offense: Accreditation suspension for up to 180 days with a P15,000 fine
Third offense: Revocation of accreditation, perpetual disqualification as an LTO-accredited Medical clinic or health facility.
If you have an iPhone, you probably have a weekly Screen Time Report, and let’s be honest, we all are guilty of ignoring it.
Let’s face it; even if we are aware or not, we are spending too much time scrolling on our smartphones. And guess what? We Filipinos have the highest average screen time.
Photo from Asterio Baja Bagayas III
According to a report by Electronics Hub, an electronics information website, we spend a third of our day scrolling on our phones. Filipinos have the highest digital dependence in Asia at 32.53%. In addition, our screen time is at 54.44%, which makes it the third-highest globally. Moreover, 70 million out of 110 million people in the Philippines are smartphone users.
Meanwhile, the Philippines ranks 8th at 21.91% regarding computer screen time. On the other hand, we spend about 21.91 percent on social media, which makes us the highest. Of course, gaming is included; Filipinos spend their time playing games at 8.75 percent.
Indeed, our phones are now an essential part of our life. We use it for work, school, and leisure. However, it does not mean we should become slaves of electronic devices. On the contrary, every once in a while, it is nice to let go of our phones, laptops, and computers and just enjoy the moment we have.
Photo from Unsplash
The next time you see your weekly screen time report, take that as a sign to put down your phone. The question is, will you be able to? Now, that’s a challenge.
For most Cebuanos, hearing the words “Royal Concourse” evokes a lot of good memories from the past.
Photos of what it once was recently started circulating online which reignited a wave of sentiment among locals who flooded the comments with their memories.
Photo from Joan Llamedo
Once located in Gorordo Avenue, the budget-friendly family buffet used to echo with laughter and joy among a sumptuous feast. This renowned restaurant has been a beloved establishment in Cebu City ever since it first opened its doors in 1992.
Sadly, in late 2017, the cherished Royal Concourse said goodbye for good, leaving a path of nostalgia and sentimental memories in its wake.
But just what makes Royal Concourse so cherished? Let us find out!
A witness to numerous special moments
Cebuanos held a particular place in their hearts for Royal Concourse. It became a popular gathering place because of its reputation as a low-cost family buffet.
The restaurant gave families the chance to indulge in a pleasant meal without going over budget because of its vast selection of meals, which included both regional specialties and foreign cuisine.
Photo from Louie John (Louie)Photo from Janet Elnas
Numerous reunions, anniversaries, and birthdays were commemorated in the welcoming atmosphere of Royal Concourse.
The location has held a wide variety of events over the years, from corporate banquets to intimate gatherings. For a lot of locals, it was the perfect location for weddings, conferences, and other social functions.
Forever etched in the hearts of those who experienced them are the memories made within the walls of Royal Concourse.
Closure and legacy
Maybe all good things must come to an end.
The end of an era was marked in 2017 when Royal Concourse closed its doors after 25 years of service in the Cebuano neighborhood.
Photo from francis familarPhoto from Nikki Kristine Villaro
The impact it had on Cebu’s culinary scene and the memories it sparked cannot be overwritten, despite the fact that the reasons for its closure are still unclear.
While new buffets have emerged throughout the city to fill the void, the nostalgia associated with Royal Concourse remains unmatched.
Even if its doors may be shut, the memories and experiences it gave us will always be cherished since they serve as a reminder of an era when people in Cebu enjoyed spending time together around the table.
Sugboanons! Are you connected to Starlink, or are you still lagging out?
The revolutionary SpaceX project Starlink has transformed global connectivity. Starlink proposes to deliver a high-speed internet connection to even the most remote regions of the earth via a constellation of thousands of tiny satellites orbiting the planet.
Photo from Starlink Website
Starlink has risen to the top of the satellite internet market because of SpaceX’s constant pursuit of technological improvements and dedication to pushing the limits of space exploration, promising a world where connectivity knows no bounds.
Starlink, which promised quicker and more dependable internet connectivity, has given the Philippines optimism since its installation in February of this year.
Starlink’s cutting-edge satellite technology holds the promise of bridging the nation’s long-standing digital divide, especially in rural areas with sparse traditional internet infrastructure.
Photo from Unsplash
Here are the updated prices for Starlink in the Philippines as of May.
Standard – P2,700/month
Starlink’s standard service for residential customers in one location.
Mobile – Regional – P3,300/month
With Starlink Regional for mobile, You can have the best service wherever you may be within your continent. Pause and unpause at any time.
All services are accessible, but use is not permitted on the ocean.
Mobile – Global – P12,200/month
Global use of Starlink at any location with service coverage that is active throughout the land. The priority is below Standard and Priority customers, which may result in slower speeds during times wherein the service is of high usage.
Use is also still not permitted on the ocean for this, but along with Metered Mobile Priority data, ocean access can be purchased by the GB.
By switching to a mobile plan, you may be unable to change back to the Standard plan at your address.
Mobile – Priority 50GB – P15,394/month
Starlink can be accessible on the ocean or land across the globe while being prioritized, therefore resulting in faster speeds. After using Mobile Priority data, you can receive 50GB mobile data on land anywhere on the globe where Starlink has service.
Mobile – Priority 1TB – P61,576/month
Starlink can be accessible on the ocean or land across the globe while being prioritized, therefore resulting in faster speeds. After using Mobile Priority data, you can receive 1TB mobile data on land anywhere on the globe where Starlink has service.
Mobile – Priority 5TB – P307,885/month
Starlink can be accessible on the ocean or land across the globe while being prioritized, therefore resulting in faster speeds. For example, after using Mobile Priority data, you can receive 5TB mobile data on land anywhere on the globe where Starlink has service.
Priority 1TB – P12,992/month
Priority, high-speed service for companies and other high-demand consumers in one place, including priority support and public IP. Receive unlimited Standard data after using 1TB Priority data.
Priority 2TB – P25,872.00/month
Priority, high-speed service for companies and other high-demand consumers in one place, including priority support and public IP. Receive unlimited Standard data after using 2TB Priority data.
Priority 6TB – P77,392.00/month
Priority, high-speed service for companies and other high-demand consumers in one place, including priority support and public IP. Receive unlimited Standard data after using 6TB Priority data.
To Joshua Garcia, luxury has become a state of mind.
In the world of showbiz, many associate success with wealth; lavish lifestyles that incorporate everything expensive – from Italian gold jewelry to supercars – is the sign that you have accomplished much in life. However, the heartthrob has realized that maybe this way of living is not for him.
Photo from garciajoshuae on Instagram
Like many celebrities, Garcia was once enthralled by the glitz and glamor of life. When you are among stars, it is easy to get caught up in the allure of grandiosity. Although many dream of such a financial situation, many of us also fail to realize that the ideal life does not solely revolve around money, but in comfort.
Garcia’s newfound revelation caused him to downsize and simplify the way he lived.The actor disclosed that he had sold both his Dodge Challenger automobile and his Triumph Bonneville T150 motorcycle as he believed they were not practical to have in the Philippines. He stated that he believes he should stick to the things he really needs.
Photo from garciajoshuae on InstagramPhoto from garciajoshuae on Instagram
For many of us, parting ways with our investments can be something so challenging, especially when you have worked hard for it. However, Garcia’s transformative journey teaches us that true fulfillment lies in living a life aligned with our authentic selves, regardless of societal expectations.
Tell the guards to open up the gates as Disney’s Frozen transcends beyond the silver screen! Who is up for an icy blast?
Photo from Disney Parks YouTube Channel
If you are one of the many Filipino tourists who have been looking to travel to HongKong to visit the dearly beloved Disneyland, then you are in luck – a real life Arendelle is in the works!
Frozen-themed rides will be available throughout this new world of Frozen. It will be home to the iconic castle that you have seen on TV, along with Frozen-themed coasters that take you into an icy wonderland that looks as though Elsa herself made it.
Photo from Disney Parks YouTube ChannelPhoto from Disney Parks YouTube Channel
Apart from the rides, it is not called a theme park unless it involves stalls and restaurants that scream Frozen; these are also available for guests to explore!
In late 2022, we got a glimpse of what the theme park is set to be like, and now that we are nearing its opening November this year, we are getting closer to the icy wonderland being up for show.
Elsa did say to never go back as the past is in the past, but look forward to stepping inside the world of Frozen and spark your childhood joy with the magical wonders unfolding before your eyes!
Doi Cravin’s and Doi Palapa— unwrapping Moro food culture, one pater at a time.
Have you ever encountered a steamed rice dish wrapped in banana leaves with shredded meat? If you have, that dish is called Pater, which is Maguindanao’s heritage dish. Many people have tried recreating the dish and adding twists, but the original is still a crowd favorite.
If you love Pater, then you need to try it with Palapa. Palapa is a condiment that is put on top of Pater, adding a spicy kick and elevating the dish. Speaking of which, there is a new HALAL food restaurant in Cebu that specializes in one of the best Pater, Palapa, and Pares — Doi Cravin’s.
Doi Cravin’s: Bringing a Piece of Mindanao to Cebu
Doi Cravin’s is the place for faultless and authentic Pater, Palapa, and Pares. Their chef hails proudly from Mindanao and is a master of creating traditional Mindanao dishes. Moreover, they offer different kinds of Pater such as Beef, Tuna, and Chicken.
And, of course, the meal would not be complete without adding a pinch of Palapa to the Pater. Team Sugboph was given a fantastic chance to try the popular combo, and here’s what we think.
We tried the Chicken Pater, and the dish definitely hit a home run. The steamed rice was soft and packed with flavor. The scent of Banana leaf was infused in the rice, giving it an aromatic scent and a subtle banana leaf flavor.
And the shredded chicken was also “chef’s kiss”. It was savory, full of flavor, and went perfectly well with the rice. The Pater itself was already so good, but the Palapa by Doi Palapa made it ten times better.
The correct way to eat Pater with Palapa is to mix them both together. When we took the first bite, our taste buds immediately welcomed an explosion of flavors. The Palapa added an intense spice to the Pater, which complemented its sweet and salty taste. It also had a strong ginger flavor.
Initially, we thought that there were chilies in there. However, the owner shared that what gives the Palapa its spiciness is the ‘Sakurab.’ Sakurab is a kind of shallot that is native to the Lanao provinces of Mindanao.
The meal was very filling, and every bite was heavenly.
Aside from the Pater and Palapa, they also offer Beef Pares, Fried Chicken Rice with Palapa, and many more. They even serve desserts that are new every week. Other than that, Customers can also purchase their own jar of Doi Palapa.
Homey Restaurant Vibe
Doi Cravin’s has a physical branch located in Mandaue. You will be greeted by a homey vibe when you enter the establishment. The owner expressed that he wanted the customers to feel at home. He also wants everyone who visits the restaurant to feel comfortable while they enjoy their meal.
There are plenty of chairs and tables available. Diners can also see tons and tons of Doi Palapa jars as they are displayed on a shelf.
The owner also added that he would add art pieces to represent and showcase Mindanao’s beauty.
Doi Cravin’s with Doi Palapa is bringing the taste of Mindanao closer to Cebuanos, and we are here for it. Head over to Doi Cravin’s and savor the spicy goodness of authentic Maranao Palapa and Pater. With that said, ready to take on the heat?
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Best-sellers:
Chicken Pater with Palapa
Beef Pater with Palapa
Tuna Pater with Palapa
Beef Pater with Palapa
Other Information:
Opening hours: 8AM to 11PM Mondays to Thursdays; 8AM to 2AM Fridays and Saturdays; 3PM to 11PM on Sundays
There is more to food than just how good it tastes. The whole process involved while making the dish is what makes every bite worth it.
This particular restaurant in Cebu will make you want to appreciate the food in its entirety as they introduce conventional flavors and international grilling to the Filipino palate.
Are you ready to dine? Then make your way to ROCKS Grill & Tavern.
Experience a “Comfy” Luxury at ROCKS Grill & Tavern
Let’s talk about ROCKS Grill & Tavern’s look and ambiance. The restaurant’s exterior is all matte black, and on the wall, you’ll see “ROCKS By Mona.” It’s simple yet mysteriously sophisticated.
Meanwhile, when you enter the establishment, you are greeted by a beautiful interior of black and gold. The seats also have a hint of the colors mentioned above, and the tables sport a marble look.
According to Chef Mona, the restaurant’s owner, she wanted an interior that’s simple and clean. In addition, as you go in, you will see a Wood waterfall as the centerpiece. Chef Mona also shared that she wanted to incorporate a touch of nature so people could experience it while dining in the city.
Diners can also choose to sit by the grill area so they can get a first-hand look at how the dishes are prepared. But wait, there’s more! Soon, ROCKS Grill and Tavern will be introducing big meats and diners can also witness how they are preapred up close.
ROCKS Grill & Tavern’s location gives it a hint of exclusivity. However, it is a bit hard to find, but that’s part of the whole experience. Because once you find the restaurant, tasting the food makes the travel worth it.
ROCKS Grill & Tavern Introduces a Deeper Level of Flavor
They say there is a difference between truly tasting and just eating, and at ROCKS Grill & Tavern, you will encounter dishes that bring out the authenticity of taste. Team Sugbo.ph had the amazing opportunity to try out the restaurant’s “Must Eat,” which was a great experience.
Going Loco for Tacos
For starters, we took a bite of their Tacos. Of course, we’ve had tacos before, but the ones at ROCKS Grill & Tavern were definitely different. Every part of the Taco tasted fresh, from the corn shell to the grilled bits of meat, to fresh onions and herbs.
Chef Mona shared that they take pride in their all-natural ingredients and recipes that are made from scratch. Instead of using regular and pre-made taco shells, they use corn flour. What makes the tacos at ROCK’s Grill & Tavern different is that the taco shell itself already has flavor. The taco was also a bit charred on the side, which elevated the taste. The salsa was also very fresh.
A Little Bit of Everything in One Plate
We were served two kinds of food boards: the Mini Board (Jamaican Chicken) and the Beast Board.
The Jamaican Chicken from the Mini Board was new to our taste buds. It was spicy, sweet, and had a hint of smokiness. The chicken was also incredibly tender. Meanwhile, the beast board caught us by surprise because it got a little bit of everything on one plate.
The beast board comprised smoked bacon, sausage, potatoes, ribs, and grilled pineapples with cinnamon. The ribs were tender and juicy, and packed with flavor. The sausages were really good too. But the star of the show was definitely the smoked bacon.
The smoked bacon was entirely different from store-bought ones. Each bacon had layers and layers of smokiness. The more you chew, the more the flavor comes out. Chef Mona also shared how the meat used for the bacon is marinated for a week. This allows the meat to fully soak up the flavor. After marinating, the meat is then smoked for 12 hours and up.
Also, good news for spicy lovers! Almost all of their dishes have a bit of a kick to them—especially the tacos. But don’t worry, if you aren’t a fan of spicy food, you can always mellow the heat down with the grilled pineapple with cinnamon. The pineapple’s sweetness perfectly combats the spiciness of the dish.
Of Ocean and Spicy Salsa
And, of course, we had to try something from their seafood menu. So we got to taste their grilled oyster with spicy salsa. The oysters were grilled perfectly, and the salsa was a literal punch to the palate, in a good way.
Premium Margarita, A Tacos best pair
What’s the best drink to pair tacos with? Premium Margarita, of course. The Margarita at ROCKS Grill & Tavern is made with premium Mexican tequila as a base. They also add fresh lime to the mix.
Aside from a Margarita, the restaurant also offers different cocktails, coffee drinks, and more, such as Burnt Mallows Coffee, Tiramisu Coffee, Forbidden Fruit, and Coco Strawberry & Cream.
Chef Mona guarantees that all their dishes are made from natural ingredients. There are no preservatives added. From the marinades and the sauces, everything is made from scratch.
At ROCKS Grill & Tavern, Timing and Feeling is Everything
But how does ROCKS Grill & Tavern maintain the level of flavor of their dishes? You could say the two most important ingredients are timing and feelings. The cooks at ROCKS Grill & Tavern, especially Chef Mona, pour their hearts and soul into cooking each and every dish.
Chef Mona said that when cooking, the person should really feel good on that day.
You’ve heard people tell you not to cook on a bad day because it affects the taste of the food; it turns out they were absolutely correct.
At ROCKS Grill & Tavern, you are not only paying for the food, but you are paying for the whole experience. It is a great place to socialize, have fun, and spend time with people who matter to you the most while indulging in incredible eats that will make you appreciate food.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
MUST TRY:
Mini Board Jamaican
Taco Solo
Beast Board
Grilled Oyster
Margarita
Other Information:
Opening hours: 3 PM to 12MN on Tuesdays to Sundays
