Many of us chase after the highs of life at an affordable price. The newly opened White Castle Events and Private Villa makes it within our reach.
Photo from White Castle Events And Private Villa – Cebu Facebook Page
Posh Provisions
In front of the castle-esque house is a wide garden space pavilion that is perfect for event venues. Parties and catering for 50-60 pax are allowed with food and drinks having no corkage fee.
If you are looking to spend some traditional Filipino family time, there is a karaoke machine that is free for use. To make things even more enjoyable, inflatable swimming pools are also accessible for both adults and kids.
Photo from White Castle Events And Private Villa – Cebu Facebook PagePhoto from White Castle Events And Private Villa – Cebu Facebook PagePhoto from White Castle Events And Private Villa – Cebu Facebook Page
If you prefer to just relax, 5 bedrooms with 2-3 beds each with their own comfort rooms are open for guests. The bedrooms are stylized as though it was summer in Italy; the windows were designed to face the garden to provide visitors with a warm ambience inside. You can connect to their WiFi from anywhere around the mansion. Caretakers are inside and can assist you should the need rises.
The private villa is your Italian-inspired venue. Standing with its pristine white walls, it looks as though it could be a background for a renaissance painting. That said, it is classy enough for eye candy and to grace your Instagram feed.
Photo from White Castle Events And Private Villa – Cebu Facebook PagePhoto from White Castle Events And Private Villa – Cebu Facebook PagePhoto from White Castle Events And Private Villa – Cebu Facebook PagePhoto from White Castle Events And Private Villa – Cebu Facebook PagePhoto from White Castle Events And Private Villa – Cebu Facebook Page
Exact location: 1205 Hernan Cortes St., Mandaue City, 6014 Cebu
BY CAR: If you are riding your own vehicle or hailing a Grab Car or taxi, just set your destination to “White Castle Events and Private Villa”. Parking space is available.
BY VAN: White Castle Events and Private Villa offers free pick-up and drop-off via van.
Chimp-skates looking for a wild experience? Look no further down south of Cebu!
Photo from Hagdan OSLOB WILD Monkeys Facebook Page
Aside from the great whale sharks, there are also beasties much smaller in size that you can find among the trees in barangay Hagdan, Oslob.
Having gone viral because of the television show Born to Be Wild, tourists flock to the location to see the highly successful primate species which are Philippine long-tailed macaque monkeys. The canyon has long been home to them, despite its history.
Photo from Hagdan OSLOB WILD Monkeys Facebook PagePhoto from Hagdan OSLOB WILD Monkeys Facebook Page
People seek the monkeys for the lively experience because of how interactive they are. They are given names and are well-taken care of by the attendants. They restored their habitat from how it used to be littered with trash.
The locals put great value in their precious natural heritage because of what it does for them. With support from organizations concerned with the conservation of wildlife, it showcases what nature can be and can do for those who seek its protection.
Photo from Hagdan OSLOB WILD Monkeys Facebook PagePhoto from Hagdan OSLOB WILD Monkeys Facebook PagePhoto from Hagdan OSLOB WILD Monkeys Facebook PagePhoto from Hagdan OSLOB WILD Monkeys Facebook Page
BY BUS: From the South Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound for Bato-Oslob. Inform the driver to drop you off at the ‘Monkey Viewing’ in Brgy. Hagdan, Oslob. It is only a few meters away from Hagdan Elementary School.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Oslob Wild Monkey Viewing” in Oslob. You can park your vehicles at the side of the road.
Dreams will only come true if one puts hard work into them.
Yet another inspiring success story of a person who gave his all to gain the life he has now. The secret ingredients to his success? Determination, hard work, and siomai.
Photo from Rated Korina YouTube Channel
Meet Henry Guruta, the millionaire who earns ₱1 Million a month. However, his success did not happen overnight. Let us know more about Henry Guruta’s story.
Growing up along the Train Tracks
Henry had a tough childhood. He grew up along the train tracks with his dad and two siblings. Unfortunately, Henry’s mother left the family when he was young. His father also had many vices, which is why Henry became the breadwinner of his family at such a young age.
Photo from Rated Korina YouTube Channel
To fund his education, as well as his family’s meals, Henry engaged in different jobs. He sold things on the street, became a fast food crew, and sold encyclopedias.
After graduating college, he moved to Nueva Ecija. He then met his wife, and they started a business together.
Turning the Tables
Henry and his wife, Jean, started a siomai business together. They created their own recipe and constructed a stall near their house. Their siomai became a hit, and a few years later, they were able to grow their business. Henry’s siomai is not only delicious but also affordable.
Photo from Rated Korina YouTube ChannelPhoto from Rated Korina YouTube ChannelPhoto from Rated Korina YouTube Channel
The couple went from using their DIY stall to having about 500 branches throughout the Philippines. Because of their business, the Guruta couple now owns a siomai factory and 8 delivery trucks. Their lifestyle also upgraded, with four cars.
Who would have thought that choosing siomai for business would elevate someone’s life? Henry and Jean took the risk, and because of their positive attitudes and determination, they were able to turn the tables.
If you are looking for an ethereal out-of-this-world exposure, Carmen is the place to be.
2 hours away from the city, an escapade to Durano Eco Farm is an adventure amidst flora and fauna along with mystical green waters flowing out of cold springs in several multi-level pools located in the mountains.
Photo from Durano Eco Farm Facebook Page
Because of its location and the caretakers, healthy vegetation spreads along the private spring resort. The farm boasts their skillfully grown miniature trees which they have been collecting for a long time and have put together to form a bonsai garden.
They have picnic tables around the area wherein you can dine outdoors in scenic surroundings dominated by their assemblage of plant species which can be ideal for taking photographs.
Photo from Durano Eco Farm Facebook PagePhoto from Durano Eco Farm Facebook PagePhoto from Durano Eco Farm Facebook Page
A Breezy Lodge in The Trees
If you are looking to sleep under the stars amidst lush, green terrain, they also have a 3-level high mango treehouse that is available for an overnight stay.
The mango treehouse is air-conditioned for extra comfort, with a mini fridge provided for the guests. Living rooms and porches overlooking the forest and spring-fed pools are accessible.
To be surrounded by such flourishing scenery is perfect if you are looking for some time away from the bustling city and if you are wanting to reconnect with nature.
Photo from Durano Eco Farm Facebook PagePhoto from Durano Eco Farm Facebook PagePhoto from Durano Eco Farm Facebook PagePhoto from Durano Eco Farm Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Entrance fee: ₱100 per adult; ₱50 per kid below 10 years old
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride any bus bound for Carmen or Sogod. Inform the driver to drop you off at Carmen Public Market. Bus fare is ₱40 per person. From there, ride a habal-habal and tell the driver to bring you to Durano Eco Farm. Fare is ₱35. Travel time is around 15 minutes.
BY JEEP / MINIBUS: You can also ride a jeepney or mini-bus going to Carmen, from Sun Gold near the crossing in SM City Cebu. Inform the driver to drop you off at Carmen Public Market. Bus fare is ₱40 per person. From there, ride a habal-habal and tell the driver to bring you to Durano Eco Farm. Fare is ₱35. Travel time is around 15 minutes.
BY VAN: You can ride a v-hire from SM City Van Terminal. Inform the driver to drop you off at Carmen Public Market. Bus fare is ₱40 per person. From there, ride a habal-habal and tell the driver to bring you to Durano Eco Farm. Fare is ₱35. Travel time is around 15 minutes.
Starting a business can be taxing. Some people even worry about how big an investment it would be to start. However, a Man who proudly hails from Butuan was able to turn his life around with just ₱500 capital.
How did he do it? Let’s find out.
The Arnel Estorba Story
Who would have thought that a passion for cooking and a mere ₱500 investment would elevate this man’s life? Born and raised in Butuan, Arnel Estorba conquered Cebu for better opportunities. However, he was also one of the people affected by the pandemic.
During the lockdown, Arnel was also one of many people who started their own businesses. He felt the need to provide people with food, especially when most of us had to stay home.
Arnel also wanted to keep the essence of celebration through his cuisine, even during the lockdown. That is why he started his own food pack business.
According to Arnel, he only had ₱500 to start his food pack business during the onslaught of Covid-19. But he didn’t know how far the small capital would take him. He started the business on his own. He cooked and prepared all the food orders himself with the help of two working students.
Arnel’s business grew from selling food packs to food trays, eventually establishing Nelly’s Best. As his business elevated, he also provided jobs for those people, especially cooks, who got laid off during the pandemic. So not only does Arnel have a keen vision for his business, but he also thinks of the well-being of people who need a little help during the trying time.
The food entrepreneur now has about 40 to 50 employees who show their loyalty to him because of his generosity and good heart—no wonder he is blessed with the success he has now.
“Kung maayo imong gi buhat, it always pays good Karma” (If what you do is good, it will always pay good Karma),
THE FOOD ENTREPRENEUR SHARED WITH OUR TEAM.
Conquering Hardships
Like other business owners, Arnel also experienced hardships he had to conquer. According to him, there was a time his business went down because of Typhoon Odette. As a result, all the order payments were returned to his customers.
Some business owners would have given up right then and there, but Arnel was not like other business owners. Instead of giving up, he still strived. Even during the days without a phone signal, he would find a way to communicate with his customers. And to Arnel’s delight, many people still wanted to order food packs and trays from him.
“There’s always a time na mu down ang business. Dili jud dapat mu undang (There will always be a time when businesses go down. You just have to keep going)”.
THESE WERE THE EXACT WORDS ARNEL TOLD SUGBOPH.
He also added that as long as people believe in your business, you will have a reason to keep going and never give up.
And before he knew it, he was able to buy two cars and now owns a condo unit in Cebu. Arnel was also able to renovate his parents and grandmother’s house through his determination and hard work.
Let Arnel be an inspiration for all of us. Starting your business venture can be scary. It will be hard, but no one said it is impossible. Arnel is the exact representation of a person who pays it forward. Whatever blessing he receives in life, he pays it forward by helping those in need.
We salute you and your good heart, Arnel. Kudos!
About Nelly’s Best
Nelly’s Best started out as an online food service which eventually grew into a physical branch. The food business offers customized trays according to the customer’s liking. The food is delicious, and the packages are incredibly affordable.
Nelly’s Best offers different food packages such as Lechon Packages, Lechon Belly’s Packages, Premium Seafoods, and Food Trays. Customers can order online via Nelly’s Best official Facebook Page. Nelly’s Best ensures to provide quality yet affordable meals to customers who plan to dine in at the physical branches.
Make sure to try out their best-sellers:
Lapaz Batchoy
Sisig
Humba with Egg
Bas-oy
Chicken Fillet
Breaded Porkchop
List of Nelly’s Best Branches:
UCLM
Belcris
UC Banilad
UC Mambaling
Lapu-Lapu
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Best-sellers:
Lapaz Batchoy
Sisig
Humba with Egg
Bas-oy
Chicken Fillet
Breaded Porkchop
Other Information:
Opening hours: 8 AM to 5 PM; Belcris Branch is open 24 hours a day
Virginia is lighting it up like dynamite as they announce their collaboration with TinyTAN!
Virginia Premium Hotdog is elevating its competitiveness by partnering up with TinyTAN. TinyTAN is a group of adorable characters which people easily fell in love with. The tiny characters are inspired by the unique characteristics of each BTS member.
Consumers will soon have their own TinyTAN RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook Ref Magnet Collectibles. You can collect all magnets with each TinyTAN Special Edition Virginia Premium Hotdog 1kg purchase.
Every purchase is a thrill of a surprise because you’ll never know which TinyTAN character you’re going to get.
So, where exactly can you purchase the products?
Grab your own TinyTAN Special Edition Virginia Premium Hotdog 1kg, available in different Virginia Factory Outlets, Supermarkets, Convenience Stores, and Online Stores.
Worried you might miss getting your own TinyTAN Special Edition Virginia Premium Hotdog 1kg? Don’t worry, there are available stocks at Virginia’s Factory outlets. You can also head to their website here for store locations.
Below is the list of Virginia Factory Outlets:
Pasig
Masbate
Jones
Iloilo
Davao
Gusa CDO
Guizo
Lapu-Lapu
Tisa
Bantayan Island
Tabunok
Cogon CDO
Butuan
Bukidnon
GenSan
Bacolod
Ozamis
Zamboanga
Pagadian
Tagum
That’s not all; Virginia Food has another activity up its sleeve. Watch out for an exciting Photobooth at the following locations!
FOR LUZON
Metro Market! Market!- April 14-17
Factory Outlet Pasig – April 27-29
FOR VISAYAS
Metro Ayala Cebu- April 10-16
Gaisano Grand Tabunok- April 21-22
Prince Asturias – April 28 – May 4
Price Isabel Leyte – May 1-7
Prince Abuyog Leyte – May 10-27
Prince Silay- April 21- May 20
Prince Bago- May 26-June 26
Prince La Carlota- June 30-Jul 31
Lee Plaza Hypermart Dumaguete- April 28-May12
Lee Plaza Supermart Dumaguete – May 15 – June 9
Prince Bayawan – June 12-24
Ilo-ilo Supermart Atrium – April 17-23
Ilo-ilo Supermart Ungka – April 24-30
SM Ilo-ilo – May 1-31
FOR MINDANAO
Factory Outlet Davao – April 27-29
Ororama Cogon, Cagayan De Oro City- May 1-15
Factory Outlet Gusa, Cagayan De Oro City- May 4-7
Lee Plaza Dipolog- April 28-May 28
Hotdogs have just gotten way cuter with the Virginia x TinyTAN collaboration we never thought we needed! What are you waiting for? Buy yours now!
Don’t forget to follow Virginia and TinyTAN on the following platforms for more updates about the collaboration.
AI has been the talk of the town these past few months, and for a good reason.
Many people are still skeptical when it comes to using artificial intelligence or AI. There have been conversations about how AI disrupts the normal flow of human activities. However, some still believe that AI makes people’s lives more convenient.
Photo from Unsplash
Companies are now using AI to their advantage; some are even hiring employees that have knowledge of using AI. This is also why there is a demand for AI learning skills. The Philippines even has a bill that seeks the creation and establishment of AI authority.
To help people learn more about generative AI, LinkedIn released about 100 courses for free. These courses are available from March 16 to June 30, 2023.
In the meantime, LinkedIn has rolled out 20 generative AI courses. Below is a list of learning topics to expect during LinkedIn’s online courses.
Generative AI
AI and Machine Learning (ML) Foundations
Responsible AI
Advanced AI
Applied AI
These learning courses range from beginner courses to courses related to the tech industry, HR, and market and sales.
Photo from Unsplash
LinkedIn has different AI experts such as Logan Kilpatrick, Lila Tretikov, and Xavi Amatrain.
If you have more time in your hands, why not spend it in a more productive way? Register to LinkedIn’s free generative AI courses today.
Is it a cafe? Is it a resort? Actually, it’s a little bit of both.
Photo from MarCia’s Facebook Page
MarCia’s Cebu is a cafe in Cebu that sports al fresco dining. Not only that, but it is also a place where guests can enjoy an exclusive day or overnight stay. The cafe resort is perfect if you want to chill or if you have plans to celebrate an intimate event.
Let’s see what MarCia’s has to offer
Appetizing Pizzas and More at MarCia’s Cafe
If you are looking for another CAFEscapading spot, you better head to MarCia’s. The cafe offers tons of food that will satisfy your cravings.
MarCia’s can whip up different types of Pizza for you, such as Pepperoni, Supreme, Hawaiian, and Four Cheese. They also have specialty Dishes like Humba w/ Egg, Pork Belly, Cheesy Pork Ribs, and more.
Photo from MarCia’s Facebook PagePhoto from MarCia’s Facebook Page
Are you a breakfast person? Then it’s your lucky day because MarCia’s serves All Day Breakfast. So you can grab a bite of Spamsilog, Tocilog, Hotsilog, Cornsilog, and Longsilog. Aside from meals, the cafe also offers appetizers like sisig, mozzarella sticks, and french fries.
Of course, it is not a cafe without coffee. At MarCia’s, customers can choose from a variety of coffee and non-coffee drinks. They have brewed coffee, cafe latte, Iced Mocha, and a lot more. There are also frappes, Milk Teas, and Fruit Juices available.
And the best part is you can enjoy all the delicious grub for an affordable price.
Photo from MarCia’s Facebook PagePhoto from MarCia’s Facebook Page
Enjoy an Exclusive Staycation in the comforts of the City
MarCia’s also offers an exclusive staycation venue. MarCia’s staycation sports air-conditioned rooms complete with single beds and bunk beds. It is the perfect place for a family and barkada getaway in the city.
Don’t forget to take a quick dip in their swimming pool. There are even pillows and tables by the pool area to chill and have fun. Immerse yourself in a terrific view of the mountains as you rest in the balcony area.
Guests are free to use the videoke machine, kitchen, and grilling station. MarCia’s has everything; what more can you ask for?
With MarCia’s, you don’t need to travel far to experience a one-of-a-kind staycation and cafe escapade. So what are you waiting for? Book now!
Photo from MarCia’s Facebook PagePhoto from MarCia’s Facebook PagePhoto from MarCia’s Facebook PagePhoto from MarCia’s Facebook PagePhoto from MarCia’s Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE: Group Rates
Good for 50 pax: ₱4,500 Monday to Thursday; ₱6,500 Friday to Sunday
CAFE OPENING HOURS
Opening hours: 9AM to 9PM daily
OVERNIGHT RATES:
Good for 14 pax: ₱8,500 per night Monday to Thursday; ₱10,500 per night Friday to Sunday
BY COMMUTE: Ride a jeepney or bus goint to Pit-os (62B or 62C). Once you’re in Pit-os proper, you can ride a habal-habal or motorcycle going to MarCia’s in Mabini.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “MarCia’s” in Kamansi, Mabini, Cebu. Parking space is available.
People say when one door closes, another one opens. This is precisely what happened to Cebuano Baker, Marlo Pimintel Lidot.
Photo from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook Page
Marlo Pimintel Lidot is a baker based in Cebu specializing in Artisan Bread. He went viral after posting his intricate design of the Last Supper and The Passion of Christ on baked bread. He posts all his work on the Artisan Bread Basket Online Store, where netizens can get a glimpse of his masterpieces.
During an interview, Marlo expressed how much he loved bread even before. However, before starting his Artisan Bread business, the baker was supposed to fly to Maldives for a job offer. Unfortunately, his dream of flying aboard was shelved because of the pandemic.
Photo from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook PagePhoto from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook PagePhoto from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook Page
But he did not let that get in the way of his dreams of becoming a success. Marlo turned his passion and liking for baking and creating artisan breads into a business. Thus, during the pandemic, the Artisan Bread Basket Online store was born during lockdowns.
Because of his talent, Marlo was also featured in an international food magazine from the UK, Cakes & Sugarcraft Magazine.
Marlo accepts orders from clients who want to taste and witness his artisan bread firsthand. Each artisan bread costs about ₱1,000, depending on the design and size. Customers can also request their own customized Artisan Bread.
Marlo’s artisan bread creations range from sourdough, baguette, rye bread, and multi-grain bread. The baker’s process of making the intricately designed bread is a long and slow process. He uses traditional techniques and ingredients that are high quality.
Photo from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook PagePhoto from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook Page
Marlo’s Humble Beginnings
Marlon was born and raised in Malabuyoc, Souther Cebu. He graduated from Cebu Technological University with a degree in BS Industrial Technology, majoring in Food Preparation and Services Technology.
Before starting his own artisan bread company, Marlo worked at Radisson Blue. Radisson Blue is one of Cebu’s five-star hotels.
Photo from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook PagePhoto from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook PagePhoto from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook PagePhoto from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook Page
Seeking better opportunities, Marlo applied for a job in the Maldives. However, Maldives declared a lockdown during the pandemic. Because of this, Marlo’s employer informed him that they would no longer continue his employment.
According to Marlo, despite the bad news, he still tried to find ways to get through the pandemic. He decided to become more positive and determined to continue baking.
Marlo is definitely the epitome of positivity. He turned his passion into something that will help him succeed in business and life. May Marlo inspire all of us, and despite the dark clouds, there is always a silver lining.
Photo from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook PagePhoto from Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook Page
Having fun at the beach does not need to be expensive. There are many beaches in Cebu that offer quality accommodations without breaking the bank.
Photo from Guafelli Beach Facebook Page
Guafelli Beach in San Remigio is a powdery white sand paradise in the northern part of Cebu. It boasts azure waters and affordable accommodations and amenities. The beach also offers a spacious ground where guests can walk along the shore and admire what the place has to offer.
Comfy Cottage Accommodation
Guafelli Beach offers simple accommodation. The accommodation includes a big close cottage, a small cottage, and a tent rental for an affordable price. There are chairs and tables provided as well.
It is good to note that guests should bring their own blankets and pillows since the beach only provides cottages and tents for those planning to stay overnight.
Photo from Guafelli Beach Facebook PagePhoto from Guafelli Beach Facebook PagePhoto from Guafelli Beach Facebook PagePhoto from Guafelli Beach Facebook PagePhoto from Guafelli Beach Facebook PagePhoto from Guafelli Beach Facebook PagePhoto from Guafelli Beach Facebook Page
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, take a bus to San Remigio. Once you arrive, you can ride a habal-habal and tell the driver to drop you off at Guafelli Beach in Anapog.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Guafelli” in San Remigio, Cebu. Parking space is available.
