The summer season is coming in hot as Counter-Strike 2 officially launches in Summer 2023.
Photo from CounterStrike on Twitter
On the official Counter-Strike Twitter account, they tweeted about how CS2 (Counter-Strike 2) is an “overhaul to every system, every piece of content, and every part of the C-S experience”.
Along with their official announcement, they teased new amazing features, especially with the smoke grenades. In CS2, smoke grenades have become dynamic. They can create 3D objects, react to lighting, grow to fill spaces, and more.
You can watch the video here:
Today we're excited to announce Counter-Strike 2. Counter-Strike 2 is an overhaul to every system, every piece of content, and every part of the C-S experience. First, let's talk about smoke grenades: pic.twitter.com/iTtguRHJ0S
The game’s visual has also been upgraded, and the maps have been reworked. Currently, only a few selected people have access to CS2’s limited test. The players are chosen based on recent playtime on Valve’s official servers, trust factors, and their Steam account standing.
Photo from CounterStrike on Twitter
The developers of CS2 are also urging gamers to be careful with scams. According to them, the Limited Tests can only be checked by launching CS:GO through Steam.
CS2 dawns a new era as it is the “largest technical leap forward in Counter-Strike’s History,” as expressed by Valve, the official developers of CS:GO.
Well, once this game officially launches, expect gamers to disappear from the face of the earth. Where to find them? Probably, in their gaming chairs, playing the revolutionary tactical first-person shooter game of the year.
Gcash rolls out a new security feature called DoubleSafe. Gcash DoubleSafe prevents unauthorized transactions through a selfie scan and additional OTP.
Photo from Unsplash
The selfie scan is only for fully verified users. The new feature makes use of facial recognition. With this feature, users can only access their account on a new device by scanning the owner’s face. In addition, DoubleSafe only activates when you log in to a new device.
Meanwhile, the additional OTP is for non-verified users, where a one-time code will be sent to their phone numbers.
DoubleSafe ensures that you are the only one who has access to your account on any device. If you remember, Gcash only had two-factor authentication: a one-time PIN (OTP) and a Mobile PIN (MPIN).
The feature is available to limited users as of now. However, Gcash assures users that it will soon be readily available for all.
Photo from GCash
How to link your device with Gcash DoubleSafe
Linking your device with Gcash DoubleSafe is fairly simple. You just have to follow the steps below:
For Fully Verified Users:
Open your Gcash App and input your mobile number. Tap Next
Tap send Code
Enter OTP
Tap MPIN Login and enter your MPIN
Prepare for your selfie scan and tap next
Take your selfie scan.
Note: Make sure your selfie is clear and has no other people in the background. Users must also show their entire face and wear proper attire. To ensure a successful selfie, wait for the camera to finish scanning your face.
Photo from GCash
For Non-Verified Users:
Open your Gcash App and input your mobile number. Tap Next
Tap send Code
Enter OTP
Tap MPIN Login and enter your MPIN
Enter the OTP
This move by Gcash further elevates and strengthens their anti-scam campaigns. Gcash also reminds the public to be vigilant. Refrain from opening unfamiliar links, never share personal information, and always double-check before purchasing through Gcash.
Head to the Gcash Help Center via the app or click here to report scams and other suspicious activities. Open chat with Gigi and choose the option “I want to report a scam.”
Leading Vismin developer Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI) through Sugbo Prime Estate, the company’s joint venture with the Fararrons Family, introduces its co-living brand set to open for occupancy in Q3 this year.
Located within Banilad High Street, a 7,500 sqm mixed-use property along Banilad Road in Cebu, The Pad Co-Living is CLI’s first co-living space built for Cebuano go-getters who are looking for a communal space and flexible housing option right at the heart of the bustling city.
The two-tower development features 256-room accommodation available for long-term dormitory stays and hostel bookings of up to 440 persons.
The Pad Co-Living highlights a flexible room arrangement for single, double or multi-sharing occupancy for up to 4 people. Its fully furnished rooms, curated amenities and soon-to-open retail outlets are purposely built to provide those who are looking for shared living spaces together with people who have similar values, passion, stories, and ambitions.
Designed to complement the lifestyle of a young hardworking Cebuanos, each 15 sqm unit at The Pad Co-Living is complete with a bed with mattress, an ensuite toilet and bath, work desk and chair, closet and air-conditioning.
The Pad Co-Living’s five-storey building is also adorned with an in-house roof deck lounge, a shared cooking area, 24/7 security, free wifi access ideal for those with remote work. Adjacent to the building is a rooftop restaurant and swimming pool for hostel guests.
Its strategic location along Banilad Road, Cebu City provides nearby access to central business districts, commercial and retail establishments and is structured along a national road, making it an easy walk or travel for future residents.
The property is a walk away from Cebu IT Park—a hub for Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) firms, and a ride away from top educational institutions.
CLI chairman and CEO Jose Soberano III said: “We’re happy to unveil our first venture into co living. The Pad will provide a secure transient home to young professionals like IT-BPO workers and students seeking a well-located, affordable housing that they will be proud of.
Cebu Landmasters has a total portfolio of 10 properties under CLI Hotels and Resorts.
EARLY BIRD PROMO
The Pad Co-Living is offering a limited promo and special discounts of up to 10% for early reservations made until June 2023, with a minimum of 3 months stay. Be the first to avail of this limited offer by visiting The Pad Co-Living’s official website at www.thepadcoliving.com or get the latest updates through its official Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/ThePadCoLiving
The Pad Co-Living is developed by Cebu Landmasters, Inc., and will be managed and operated by its hotel arm, CLI Hotels and Resorts.
For bookings and inquiries, you can email thepadcoliving@cebulandmasters or send a message through our social media pages.
Do you have your National ID already? Good for you! But if you still don’t have your National ID, patience is a virtue.
Photo from Unsplash
But in all seriousness, there are still many people who still have not received their National IDs. People are already starting to wonder what’s taking the process too long. So, why are the IDs taking too long to be delivered? When should you expect your national ID to Arrive?
The delivery of the PhilIDs may take up to six months. This is because of the huge number of registrations that the PSA is processing.
If you still haven’t received the plastic card, you can opt to download a printable version of your National ID. Then, simply go to the PhilSys website. Enter your reference number and other details.
Photo from PhilSys Government Website
You can also track your National ID’s status of availability. Visit the Philippine Postal Corp website and type in your transaction number, which you can find on the transaction slip given to you.
During the onslaught of Covid-19, China was one of the countries that imposed extensive lockdowns. But after three years, China opened its doors once again to tourists.
Forbidden City, Beijing, China | Photo from Unsplash
In a Facebook post, Huang Xilian, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, announced that China finally resumed issuing all types of visas for foreigners. The Visas included are tourism visas, port visas, and multiple visa-exemption Policies. The resumption of visa issuance started last March 15, 2023.
For those interested visa applicants, they may register through this link. Those who also plan to travel may consult with the Chinese Embassy in Manila and its consulates in Cebu, Laoag, and Davao. They can ask for the complete requirements and procedures.
Phoro from COVA Official Website
Moreover, China resumes the visa-exemption policy for Hainan, the visa-exemption cruise policy for Shanghai, visa-exemption policy for visitors to get to Guangdong from Hong Kong and Macau. In addition, the visa-exemption policy for ASEAN tour groups to Guilin and Guangxi also resumes.
According to Jaime FlorCruz, Philippine Ambassador to China, most of the people who applied for visas are tourists, students, and those traveling for business. He also added that they feel pressured since they still need more workforce to process the Visas. However, he assures everyone they are doing what they can to speed up the process.
Shanghai, China | Photo from Unsplash
China is ready to welcome Filipino tourists; you know what that means. So it’s time to pack your bags and say hello to the Great Wall of China.
Sky is the limit when it comes to the online world.
People have started using the online world to their advantage. Most people also created their own online businesses. Even celebrities began building their online shops to have another source of income aside from working in the entertainment industry. One of those celebrities is Nadine Luste.
Photo from Nadine Lustre Store Website
The actress owns two online stores, which she describes as an extension of herself. Nadine Lustre is the proud owner of nadinelustre.store and betty-blooms.com. Moreover, she sees to it that she focuses on handling her business.
Business is Blooming with betty-blooms.com
If you are a fan of Nadine, you might know that she loves plants. Her love for plants made her decide to open an online store called betty-blooms.com, where customers can purchase a variety of indoor plants. Not only that but there are also an array of products that are essential in taking care of plans.
Photo from Betty Blooms WebsitePhoto from Betty Blooms Website
Dress like Nadine with the nadinelustre.store
The actress’s second online store is nadinelustre., where she sells her preloved clothes and luster perfume. Nadine Lustre is a style icon, and her makeup game is absolutely strong, so she started an online store to share her love for fashion and makeup.
Photo from Nadine Lustre Store Website
Only the Luster Perfume and preloved clothes are available for purchase now. Nadine’s makeup collection is still in the works, but you can purchase it soon.
According to Nadine, her online businesses are extensions of her. She revealed that her businesses were launched through Shopboxo.
Shopboxo is a platform where entrepreneurs can start their online businesses with ease. Per Nadine, Shopboxo has helped her and made things easier as an online seller.
If you want to watch Nadine’s full interview, you can watch it below.
Nadine Lustre is not just a great actress but also a proud womenpreneur as she showcases her online businesses to Filipinos. Well, she’s not called president Nadine for nothing.
Have you heard of the news about a traveler who missed her flight because of a “lengthy” immigration interview? That’s something no one should ever go through.
Photo from Unplash
Just this month, a video of a girl who missed her flight because of Immigration went viral. Cham Tanteras shared her ridiculous experience with Immigration. According to her, the immigration officer even required her to present her yearbook and graduation photo. She had already missed her flight when she was finally allowed to travel.
Cham is one of many with a dreadful experience. Other Filipinos experienced the same thing. Yikes!
Many travelers have resorted to bringing diplomas and other documents to avoid going through what Tanteras did. So, what exactly should you bring to pass through Immigration? We have compiled a list of the different documents you must have.
Documents You Should Bring to Pass Through Immigration
Immigration officials require specific documents to ensure that travelers have the legal right to travel outside the country. See the list of essential documents you must prepare when leaving the Philippines.
1. Passport
When traveling abroad, a passport is a MUST. Your passport must be valid for six months from the date of departure. It must also have two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Make sure your passport is not damaged or altered.
Photo from Unplash
2. Visa
Some countries require a visa. You have to make sure that you have a valid visa. The visa must also be appropriate for your intended travel purpose. You should also have a transit visa if you are connecting to a different country.
Photo from Unplash
3. Return Ticket
Yes, a return ticket is also an important document. Some airlines and countries will ask you to present proof of onward travel. Return tickets can be in the form of a flight, bus, train tickets, or reservation confirmation. The ticket must be valid and show the date before your stay in your country’s destination expires.
Photo from Unplash
4. Travel Itinerary
As much as possible, you should have a detailed travel itinerary that includes the following:
Flights
Accommodations
Activities during your trip
A detailed travel itinerary can help your destination country’s immigration officials to understand your visiting purpose and duration.
Photo from Unplash
5. Proof of Financial Capacity
You should prepare a proof of financial capacity from bank statements to other financial documents. There are immigration officers in some countries that may ask for proof that you can fund your travel expenses during your stay. The amount required will depend on your stay’s duration and the activities you plan to do.
Photo from Unplash
6. Health Certificate
Some countries may still require a health certificate or a negative COVID-19 test result. Be sure to check the latest travel and entry requirements before traveling.
Photo from Unplash
7. Company ID
Sometimes Immigration officers ask for a company ID if you have one. This is to prove that you won’t apply for any job opportunities in the country you will be visiting.
Photo from Unplash
8. Address and Contact Number Abroad
Address and contact number abroad are needed when filling out immigration forms.
Just in case, here are other documents you may bring:
Hotel Reservation
Invitation Letter
Photocopy of Passport and Visa
Address and contact number of the Philippine Embassy in Your Destination Country
A Pen
Photo from Unplash
The abovementioned documents might seem like a lot and add weight, but it’s better to prepare. You know what they say, “Never go to war unprepared.”
Aside from Lechon, Tuslob Buwa, Puso, and various tourist spots, Cebu is also known for its talented artists. The city has dedicated art spaces where different types of art are celebrated, appreciated, and shared with the community.
Are you curious about where you can get a glimpse of amazing artworks in Cebu? And if you love art, you should keep on reading.
We compiled Cebu’s top 3 Must-Visit Art Spots to unleash your inner art critic.
1. Florentino’s Art Space
First on the list is Florentino’s Art Space. Tucked away from the city noise, Florentino’s Art Space is a safe haven for artists and art lovers alike. The art space is nestled in a modern and beautiful building with large windows. One of the best things about the art space is that there is plenty of natural light that enhances the surroundings.
Photo from Florentino’s Art Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Florentino’s Art Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Florentino’s Art Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Florentino’s Art Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Florentino’s Art Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Florentino’s Art Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Florentino’s Art Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Florentino’s Art Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Florentino’s Art Gallery Facebook Page
Of course, the stars of the show are the variety of artworks that showcase the creativity and talent of both established and up-and-coming artists. Florentino’s Art space also holds workshops for those who want to learn more about art and improve their skills.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Opening hours: 10AM to 8PM Friday, Sunday, and Holidays
OTHER INFORMATION:
Corkage fee: Fee applies to all outside food and drinks
Exact location: Km. 33, Transcentral Highway, Gaas, Balamban, Central Visayas, Philippines, Balamban, Philippines
BY BUS: From the South Bus Terminal, ride a V-Hire or bus to Balamban. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Balamban town proper. Next, ride a habal-habal to Gaas and instruct the driver to drop you off at Florentino’s Art Space.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Florentino’s Art Space” in Balamban. Parking space is available.
2. Qube Gallery
Qube Gallery is an art space located closer to the city. If you love contemporary art, then this art spot is for you. Visitors are greeted with an array of contemporary art collections, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and mixed media art.
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Photo from Qube Gallery Facebook Page
Qube Gallery also hosts exhibits, workshops, and art talks for the public. Not only that, but they also provide art consultations to clients. In addition, Qube Gallery is also a member of the gallery of Artsy, the world’s largest and premier online art marketplace.
Crossroads, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
BY COMMUTE: From Colon, ride 13C going to Banilad. Tell the driver to drop you off at Crossroads Banilad.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Crossroads” in Banilad, Cebu. Parking space is available.
3F, Design Center of Cebu A.S. Fortuna St. Mandaue City 6014
BY COMMUTE: From Colon, ride 13C going to Country Mall. From there, ride any jeepney passing by A.S. Fortuna Street and tell the driver to drop you off at the Design Center of Cebu.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Design Center of Cebu” in Mandaue. Parking space is available.
3. Casa Gorodo Museum
Last but definitely not least, Casa Gorordo Museum. Take a glimpse of the past at this beautifully restored 19th-century house. Casa Gorordo was once the home of Juan Gorordo, a wealthy merchant and the first Cebuano bishop of the Roman Catholic Church.
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
Photo from Casa Gorordo Museum Facebook Page
The museum exhibits different aspects of what Cebuano life was like during the colonial period. The museum has antique furniture, clothing, household items, religious artifacts, and even artwork.
If you like, the museum also has guided tours that give visitors a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Cebu.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Entrance Fee: ₱120 per adult, ₱80 for students
Opening hours: 9AM to 5PM Tuesday, Sunday, and Holidays
As citizens of the Philippines, Filipinos have taxes to pay. Taxes are our contributions to the country. This year’s filing for Income Tax Returns is only until APRIL 15.
Photo from Unsplash
To people’s surprise, filing an Income Tax Return is relatively easy. So if it’s your first time, worry not because we got you. You may want to work on it as soon as possible since this year’s filing for Income Tax Returns is only until APRIL 15.
Guide to Filing Your Income Tax Return
Here’s a quick guide on how to file your income tax return.
What is an Income Tax Return (ITR)
According to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), income tax is a tax on an individual’s income, salary, or profit. The employer or a person often files the income tax return to report and pay all the necessary annual taxes.
Who is Required to File an Income Tax Return
In the Philippines, taxpayers are corporations, estates, trusts, or individuals.
Individuals are those who are Filipino residents with an income of more than ₱60,000 from profit sources inside or outside the Philippines. In addition, those who are employed, self-employed, or have mixed income are included on the list of individual taxpayers.
Meanwhile, non-resident Filipino citizens must also file an income tax return if their income sources are inside the Philippines. Aliens also getting income from the Philippines should also file an ITR.
Photo from Unsplash
Who are Exempted from Filing an Income Tax Return
There are instances where individuals are exempted from filing an ITR. Here is a list of exemptions:
None-resident Filipino Citizen working and living outside of the Philippines
Overseas Filipino Workers
Minimum Wage Earners
Who has the option to NOT file for an ITR?
Individuals with a gross income that’s not more than their personal exemptions
Those with compensation income is not more than ₱60,000 from an employer. Their income tax must be correctly withheld as well.
Individuals who have gone through the final withholding tax
Form 1700- For individuals earning compensation income, including non-business or non-profession-related earnings.
Form 1701- This form is for self-employed individuals, estates, and trusts.
Form 1702- You must fill out this form for corporations and partnerships.
All forms can be downloaded through the eBIRForms.
How to Fill Out Your Income Tax Return Forms
Note: For those who need to Fill out Form 1700, employers will be the ones who usually assist you.
Photo from Unsplash
For BIR Forms 1701 and 1702:
Fill out THREE (3) copies of the appropriate BIR From
Make sure to attach all required documents
Go to your RDO’s Authorized Agent Bank (AAB) and present your filled-out BIR forms and attachments. You also need to prepare your payment.
If there are no AABs in your location, you may go to a Revenu Collection Officer or an Authorized City or Municipal Treasurer within your RDO. Bring and present your BIR Forms with the attachments and payment.
You will receive a stamped and validated copy from the AAB teller, revenue collection officer, or city/municipal officer.
For those with no payment, refundable returns, and tax returns qualified for a second installment, you may submit your BIR ITR form and other requirements.
Photo from Unsplash
You may also file for an ITR online through the Electronic Filing and Payment System (eFPS). Moreover, payments are made through online banking or money transfers. Provide your email to receive a receipt of return.
Filing for an ITR may seem like an added stress but it’s actually a good thing. An ITR can be used when applying for bank loans or travel visa. Now that you know the steps to filing for your ITR, you better get started so you won’t miss the deadline on April 15.
The future is women-forward… the future is Female.
If you’ve been on Twitter or read business news updates, you might be familiar with ChatGPT. The tool has been widely used by different users and for a variety of purposes since its release.
Photo from Unsplash
What is ChatGPT?
ChatGPT is a large language model developed by OpenAI. It is based on the Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT). It is trained on a vast amount of text data. As a result, the AI can generate human-like responses to questions and commands.
ChatGPT is quite an intelligent one, huh? But who is the brain behind ChatGPT? Let’s find out.
Photo from Unsplash
Meet Mira Murati, The Woman Behind ChatGPT
You read that right. A woman leads the development of ChatGPT.
35-year-old Mira Murati hails proudly from San Francisco, California. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and graduated from Dartmouth College’s Thayer School of Engineering.
Mira has been working as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of OpenAI for four years. OpenAI is an AI research and deployment company. She and her team developed what is now one of the most used AI tools in the world, allowing people to gather any information that they need.
Photo from TIME
Women in tech, now that’s another reason to celebrate Women’s Month. Tech is an intimidating field to conquer, but it’s not something women can’t handle. So let’s give all the women in tech the proper recognition they deserve.
