Senator Raffy Tulfo expressed his plans to expand bike lanes here in the Philippines. To do this, he is looking to introduce a new bill. The senator said that there is a need to establish a formal agency to take charge of implementing bike-related policies, rules, and regulations. This is to ensure the safety of all cyclists in the country.
Photo from Bishal Ale Magar
Why There is a Need for More Bike Lanes
Due to the pandemic and the recent price hikes of fuel, people are now choosing to use environmental-friendly transportation, in this case, bicycles.
With the current road situation in the Philippines, bikers have to share lanes with cars, buses, and even motorcycles. This can become extremely dangerous for all parties and can lead to many vehicular or road accidents.
Photo from Unsplash
More Information on the Bicycle Act
The Bicycle Act or Senate Bill 1698 pushes the idea of creating a local bikeway office. The office will oversee all construction and maintenance of infrastructures that are related to bikes. The city or municipal engineering office will be the one to supervise.
The local bikeway office is also expected to create bike lanes on all the main roads and highways due to the rise in bike usage.
The bill is said to follow a Social Weather Stations survey. According to the survey, about 87% of Filipinos prefer bicycles and public transportation to be prioritized on the road.
Photo from Bishal Ale Magar
The bill also includes the responsibilities and restrictions of cyclists. Some responsibilities are the following: Having one hand on the handlebar at all times; wearing a helmet properly; keeping personal items in a basket or rack; and not riding the bicycle on a sidewalk.
However, the Bikeways Office was pioneered by the Marikina City Council before Tulfo proposed the idea recently.
Should there be more bike lanes in the Philippines? Let us know in the comments.
This is your chance to apply for a full tuition scholarship from the SM Foundation.
The SM Foundation is now currently accepting scholarship applicants for the school year 2023 to 2024. The online application period started on February 1, 2023, and the deadline for the filing of the application is on March 30, 2023. If you are interested in filing your application, there are requirements you need to submit.
The following attachments should be present with the online application form:
Parent’s or Guardian’s 2019 income tax return/Certification of Non-Filing of Income/Certificate of Indigency
Latest Grade 12 Report Card
Birth Certificate
2×2 ID picture
Sketch of home to the nearest SM Mall
Priority Courses
Below is the list of courses prioritized by the SM Foundation.
BS in Computer Science
BS in Information Technology
BS in Electronics and Communications Engineering/ BS In Electronics Engineering/ BS in Electronics Engineering
BS in Computer Engineering
BS in Civil Engineering
BS in Electrical Engineering
BS in Mechanical Engineering
BS in Accountancy
BS in Accounting Technology
BS in Accounting Information Systems
BS in Internal Auditing
BSBA in Financial Management
BSBA in Management Accounting
BS in Elementary Education
BS in Secondary Education major in Biology, Chemistry, General Sciences, Physics, Mathematics, English
Photo from SM Foundation Website
List of Areas Covered by the Scholarship
Luzon:
NCR
Albay
Bataan
Batangas
Benguet
Bulacan
Cagayan
Camarines Norte
Camarines Sur
Cavite
Isabela
Laguna
Nueva Ecija
Palawan
Pampanga
Pangasinan
Sorsogon
Quezon
Rizal
Tarlac
Zambales
Visayas:
Capiz
Cebu
Iloilo
Leyte
Negros Occidental
Mindanao:
Agusan del Norte
Davao del Sur
Misamis Oriental
South Cotabato
Zamboanga del Sur
Scholarship Benefits
If you are one of the successful applicants, there are a lot of benefits for you such as the following:
Choice of specialization in accounting, information technology, engineering, and education;
You are entitled to Full Tuition;
You will receive a Monthly Allowance;
You will get part-time job opportunities during your semestral and Christmas break;
You will receive exclusive job offers with the SM group upon graduation; and
You will experience fun activities and enrichment programs.
Photo from SM Foundation Website
The Goal of the SMFI College Scholarship
The SM Foundation aims to help those students who cannot afford to go to college but are very much deserving to have a college education. The SMFI wants to help in creating a better future for successful applicants and their families.
Henry Sy, the founder, also believes that education is one of the best ways people can rise up from poverty. That is why the SM Foundation focuses on providing college and technical vocational scholarships to help the youth achieve the goals that they have.
If you have all the requirements, this scholarship grant might be your key to being able to go to college and provide a better life for your family and for yourself. Apply now!
Photo from Philippine National Police Academy – Justice, Integrity, Service Facebook Page
The PNPA Cadetship Program is officially accepting admissions for those interested in the scholarship program. The PNPA Cadetship Program is a 4-year tutoring program to prepare those looking to take up a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Degree.
There is a need for recruits to take the PNPA Cadet Admission Test to fully prepare for the selection. Just like any other scholarship program, there are qualifications for PNPA admission.
Qualifications
Must be a Natural-born Filipino Citizen
Must be 18-22 years old before June 1, 2024
Must at least be a Senior High School Graduate and/or have complied with all graduation requirements before July 30, 2024
Must have a Normal BMI
Single with NO parental obligation
Must be 5’2 for males and 5’0 for females
This is in accordance with the R.A. 11549
Must be physically and mentally fit to undergo intense training
Must have good moral character
No pending complaint or case that involves crimes against the state
Must NOT be a former cadet of the PNPA and other service academies
Never been dismissed for cause from any private or government
Photo from Philippine National Police Academy – Justice, Integrity, Service Facebook Page
Benefits and Privileges
What are the possible benefits and privileges you can get when you join the program? One of the benefits is you will be able to work as a public authority researcher. Another great thing about the scholarship is that the program gives a complete scholarship award for a long period of time when it comes to preparation and teaching. There are compensations and reimbursements.
You won’t have to spend money on school, clothes, food, and conveniences. You will also get remittances. And right after graduation, you will get hired into government employment.
Photo from Philippine National Police Academy – Justice, Integrity, Service Facebook Page
Opportunities come and go but this scholarship from the PNPA Cadetship Program is the exact chance you need to fulfill your dreams of serving the state.
For more information, head over to the Philippine National Police Academy’s Facebook page or click here to be redirected to their post.
Strutting down with grace, sophistication, and power- Lukresia definitely dominated the catwalk
Photo from thirdworldbb on Instagram
Lukresia or known online as thirdworldbb, raises the bar as she walked for Mugler at the famous and most anticipated Paris Fashion Week. The Queer model became a hot topic, literally and figuratively, after she was seen walking the runway wearing a tasseled top and leather pants with zipped cutouts.
With her hair sleeked back into a ponytail, Lukresia was ready to take on the catwalk and set it a blaze. Fueled with professionalism and passion, people cannot get enough of Lukresia’s powerful vibe as she raises the LGBTQ Flag on international runways.
Who is thirdworldbb or Lukresia?
Lukresia or thridworldbb is a Cebu-based model and designer. She previously worked with Mugler before walking for the same brand during Paris Fashion Week. In one of her Instagram photos, Lukresia sports a black Mugler bodysuit.
Photo from thirdworldbb on InstagramPhoto from thirdworldbb on Instagram
The model is also famous for reclaiming the word “Bayot” and turning it positive again. In the Visayas, the word “bayot” which means gay, has been used as a negative term pertaining to people part of the LGBTQ Community.
Lukresia openly embraced the word and made it her own, showcasing that she is a proud member of the LGBTQ Community and that being “bayot” is far from negative. .
Gaining fans and supporters on both the local and international scene, Lukresia is definitely not done with her runway domination and we are absolutely here for it. Walking and slaying one runway at a time- Lukresia truly raises both Cebuano and Filipino Pride.
Here’s a pleasant job opportunity for English Teachers!
The Ministry of Education in Taiwan is looking to hire 450 international English Teachers by 2023. The teachers will help provide the students an English-speaking environment. Local teachers will also be able to elevate their English teaching skills.
Taipei, Taiwan | Photo from Unsplash
Are you interested in becoming an English Teacher in Taiwan? Here are the things you should know before applying.
Benefits
The monthly salary for the teaching program starts at NTD 65,230 or about ₱117,739.14. Aside from the salary, you will also have travel stipend, and health insurance among others. The salary is based on the applicants highest educational degree and how long their full-time teaching experience is.
To apply, you need to be a native English Speaker with a bachelor’s degree. You must also not have any criminal record.
Photo from Unsplash
Who is Eligible?
Here are the requirements you need to possess in order to be deemed eligible.
Foreign English Teacher
You must be from a country or nation where English is a common Language.
Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher that is accredited by a university or college.
Note: There is a list of accredited universities and colleges provided by the Ministry of Education. You can check them out here.
You must have a state-issued teaching license or certificate
Provide a criminal record certificate issued after January 1, 2023 from relevant authorities in your home country.
Certificate must include your name, date of issuance, and a statement that says the applicant has no criminal record.
If you have a dual nationality, use the foreign nationality to apply.
Foreign English Teaching assistant
You must be from a country or nation where English is a common Langauge
Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher that is accredited by a university or college. You may also hold a bachelor’s degree related to the field with 2 years of relevant work experience. You can also have a bachelor’s degree from accredited university or college within the top 500 World University Rankings
Note: There is a list of the top 500 accredited universities and colleges provided by the Ministry of Education. You can check them out here.
Provide a criminal record certificate issued after January 1, 2023 from relevant authorities in your home country.
Certificate must include your name, date of issuance, and a statement that says the applicant has no criminal record.
How to Apply
To apply as a foreign instructor. You must apply online through here. The deadline is a rolling basis. Applicants are expected to arrive before the TFETP orientation which takes place between mid August or the end of August.
Photo from Unsplash
A Few Reminders
If you do not have any prior teaching experience, you are highly advised to provide teaching qualifications that are certified by the Republic of China (Taiwan) Embassies or you must be verified by an accredited credential evaluation Agency.
Here is the list of accredited credential evaluation agency:
World Education Service
National Association of Credential Evaluation Service
Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada
International Credential Evaluation Service
Why is Taiwan Hiring International English Teachers?
By 2030, Taiwan aims to make English the country’s second language.To make that possible, Taiwan has their own English teaching program.
Photo from Job Opportunities PH
To level up the number of foreign English teachers and teaching assistants, the Taiwanese Ministry of Education founded the Taiwan Foreign English Teacher Program. The program was established to make teaching accessible for primary and secondary Taiwanese students in the country.
This is the reason why Taiwan needs skillful international English Teachers and who knows, you could be the exact person they are looking for. Apply now.
Undeniably, Bantayan Island has definitely one of the best beaches in the Philippines; no wonder, it’s a go-to tourist destination in Cebu. Its most popular municipality is Santa Fe where you can find the fine, pristine white sand beach and stroll around other beautiful attractions just within the vicinity.
STA. FE, BANTAYAN’S MAIN ATTRACTIONS
Before anything else, we strongly suggest to rent a motorbike which only costs P300 for 24 hours to fully enjoy and roam around the Bantayan Island at your own pace. There are many rentals available, you can ask around.
Alternatively, there are many habal-habals or motorbikes in the island but it gets costly in the long run if you plan to visit the following spots (around P50-80 per head per destination).
Resort hopping is a MUST DO activity in Bantayan, to really make the most out of your stay in the island. Later, we will share some recommendations on where to stay that’s budget-friendly.
• KOTA BEACH with & Mini Sandbar (Resort Hopping)
Photo by Cheryl Navarro of Sugbo.phPhoto by Cheryl Navarro of Sugbo.phPhoto by Ram Mancelita
Technically, there’s an entrance of P50 per head among visitors who are not checked in. But this can be waived when you eat in their restaurant. And sometimes, some staff are generous enough to allow guests to enter with no entrance fees and let them enjoy the beach.
With or without the entrance fee, you will never regret visiting this paradise. Because surely, your Bantayan experience won’t be complete without this.
• OGTONG CAVE IN STA. FE BEACH CLUB (Resort Hopping)
Photo by Ram MancelitaPhoto by Cheryl Navarro
There’s an entrance fee of P200 per head, which already includes access to the outdoor pool and Ogtong Cave. When it gets scorching hot outside, it’s much better to swim in the cave that feels very cool and chill.
• PARADISE BEACH RESORT (Resort Hopping)
Photo by Karl Hubert SoonPhoto by Karl Hubert Soon
Technically, there’s an entrance fee of P50 per head. But there are cases, when it doesn’t get too crowded, they consider of not charging any entrance fee. See those beautiful rock formations fronting the pristine white beach of Bantayan? P50 is nothing compared to the unforgettable experience.
• MARLINS BEACH RESORT (Resort Hopping)
There’s an entrance fee of P50 per head only. At times, entrance is given for free especially during low season.
• MANGROVE ECO PARK
Photo by Chichi RoblesPhoto by Louise
Walk with nature at Mangrove Eco Park. Entrance fee is only P50 per head.
• SUNRISE / SUNSET WATCHING
We are witnesses of the beautiful sunrise / sunset in Bantayan Island. It’s really one of the BEST I’ve seen in my life. Watch it by the seashore to appreciate it even more. it’s just breathtakingly beautiful.
Travel Requirements
The Cebu Provincial Government has eased the travel requirements, but they advise travelers to secure a prior appointment or booking confirmed from the desired resort or travel destination.
It’s also important to observe the minimum health requirements such as:
Must always wear face mask & face shield
Must always observe social distancing
If you’re from outside Cebu and wish to travel, a negative swab test and other travel documents are no longer needed in Cebu Province (including Bantayan Island), Mandaue City, and Lapu-Lapu City.
How to get to Bantayan Island?
Buses that will bring you to Bantayan Island are found at the North Bus Terminal (located at the open parking lot of SM City Cebu). Take the bus going to Hagnaya. Travel time is approximately 3 hours. From Hagnaya take the Express Ferry Boat to Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island. Travel time is approximately 1-hour ride to Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island. A Ro-Ro vessel from Hagnaya to Santa Fe is also available.
FARE
Bus – P175 per way / P350 roundtrip (20% discount for students, present School ID)
Ferry & Terminal Fee – P185 + 10 per way / P390 roundtrip
Fares may change without prior notice.
BUS SCHEDULE
Location: North Bus Terminal at the open parking lot of SM City Cebu
Bus Trip from North Bus Terminal (Cebu City) to Hagnaya Port: approx. 3.5-4 hours travel time
Ferry Trip
Ferry Trip from Hagnaya Port to Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island: approx. 1 hour travel time
11 Days. 10 Ports. 1 Amazing Holiday. Are you ready for your ultimate travel goals? Ready your wallets, too!
Take an unforgettable 11-day cruise through Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia on Norwegian Jewel. Leave the city behind and check out the intricate cave system at Subterranean River National Park in Puerto Princesa in the Philippines.
In Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), take a cycle rickshaw through pagodas, colonial architecture and vibrant markets. Walk through Singapore where traditional and modern architecture sit side-by-side in colorful Hindu temples and dramatic skyscrapers. Finally, a slice of paradise awaits you in Bali, Indonesia.
The famous Norwegian Jewel
Making a grand comeback, the Norwegian Jewel cruise will last for 11 days from November 30, 2023 to December 11, 2023. It will depart from the port of Manila and passengers will disembark in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Itinerary:
Boracay (Malay, Aklan)
Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Muara, Brunei Darussalam
Nha Thrang, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Singapore
Bintan Island, Indonesia
I’m sold, but how much?
The Norwegian Jewel offers much more than just ocean travel during your stay. You need to plan ahead for a variety of events, including Le Cirque Bijou’s acrobatic performances, comedy shows, and swimming in the pools and hot tubs. Additionally, food establishments and retail outlets are present.
This life-dream experience costs starting at $1,299 or about Php 71,000 per person.
This new coffee shop in Cebu will definitely free you from the stresses of work and life. Located in the heart of the city, C. Brew is a safe haven for people looking to get their daily drip of caffeine.
Here’s what C. Brew has to offer.
Coffee Forward Connection
The “C” in C. Brew stands for connection and community. This is because C. Brew is more than just a cafe, it is a brand that connects with the community one cup of coffee at a time.
Because of C. Brew’ strategic location, people, especially corporate workers, can unwind, catch up, and connect with friends and colleagues. If you are looking for the perfect place to meet up with friends or just enjoy self-compnay, you have to visit C. Brew Cafe.
Experience a Boho-Scandinavian Vibe
Peep through a hole-in-the-wall coffee shop in the city and you might never know what you’ll find. But with C.Brew, you’ll find both comfort and aesthetic.
C. Brew cafe definitely gives off a big and cozy energy. With its Boho-Scandinavian interior, the place definitely has that relaxing and homey vibe that you can’t get enough off. The cafe is complete with tables and chairs both indoors and outdoors to ensure a comfortable experience.
The whole place is definitely instagrammable with its lighting, decors, and little details that will level up your next Instagram photo.
High-Quality Coffee at a reasonable Price
On to the star of the show- C. Brew’s coffee drinks are hand-crafted and made from high-quality ingredients. Made with passion and love, all the drinks are quick to become everybody’s favorite and best sellers.
Not only that, you won’t have to break your wallets for the exact same expensive taste of coffee. All of C. Brew’s products are at a reasonable price. Totally budget friendly.
Make sure to try out their Caffe Americano, Cappuccino, and Caffe Au Latte. They also have non-coffee drinks like the Classic Chocolate and their spritzers; Green Apple Campagna Iced Shaken and Tropical Passionfruit Iced Shaken.
Of course, your C.Brew experience is not complete without grabbing their “Must Try” drink which is their Espresso Mamba. The Espresso Mamba is an Espresso House Affogato and Espresso COn Pana Ala Black Forest.
Don’t forget to grab their seasonal drinks until February 15, 2023. Their Salted Caramel Toffee nut is definitely a treat
Have a great coffee-forward experience at C. Brew Cafe- Brewing connections, one coffee cup at a time.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Best-sellers:
Classic Chocolate (hot or iced)
Iced Caramel Macchiatto
White Chocolate Hazelnut Frappuccino
Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino
Americano (hot or iced)
Caramel Frappuccino
Iced White Chocolate Mocha
Green Apple Campagna
Menu:
Other Information:
Opening hours: 9AM to 7PM on Weekdayss; 10AM to 8PM on Saturdays; closed on Sundays
Exact location: GF La Florentina Pension House, Acacia St. Gorordo, Cebu City, Philippines. Walking Distance from the Golden Peak Hotel.
BY BUS:N/A
BY JEEPNEY: Ride any Jeepney going to Gorordo Avenue, it can be 17C.BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “La Florentina Pension House” in Cebu. Parking space is available.
The pain of losing a loved one does not only end in a death bed. There are people who struggle with financial problems when it comes to arranging funerals. The problems poor families face when it comes to organizing funerals are something others do not see and can be quite a struggle.
Photo from Unsplash
Because of this, there is a need to elevate the affected households’ burden. Which is why there is a senate bill that seeks to secure free funeral services for households that earn ₱15,000. Another requirement is that the household must not own any vehicle or property.
Although, this is not the first bill filed with the same intention. The Makabayan bloc consisting of France Castr (ACT Teachers’ Rep), Arlene Brosas (Gabriela Women’s Rep), Raoul Manuel (Kabataan Rep.) filed a bill in Congress which seeks to give discounted or free funeral services to families in need.
Photo from Unsplash
Who is the Author of The Bill?
The bill’s author is Senator Raffy Tulfo. He expressed that many poor families are both burdened with grief and financial stress that some would even opt to borrow money from others, such as lenders. The downside is the money lenders have high interest rates.
Yes, there is already burial assistance provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, however, Tulfo wants to establish a FREE burial and funeral services for the poor.
Photo from Unsplash
The free burial and funeral service would include funeral documents preparation, embalming, viewing, burial or cremation. A casket or urn should also be provided by accredited mortuaries.
A new metaverse app blew up on Twitter and Facebook as users posted their avatars in a self-designed 3D room. The app is called Bondee and it was developed by a tech firm in Singapore- Metadream.
What is with Bondee and why are people falling in love with the app? Let’s walk through it
Virtual Doll House
If owning a doll house becomes virtual, Bondee would be an exact representation. The app allows its users to dress up or customize their own 3D avatars. But unlike traditional dolls in a doll house, the avatars can do many things like sit down on the sofa and even lie in bed.
Photo from LJay Manayon
The avatars can even go clubbing or simply float around on a boat. Users are also able to design their own rooms. The app offers an array of virtual decorations and furniture to add a touch of “personality” to the rooms.
Be Virtual Neighbors with Friends
Bondee is a metaverse that stimulates the experience of living closer to your friends. There is an option for users to add their friends and visit each other’s “rooms” or “houses. Users can add up to 50 friends.
Photo from LJay ManayonPhoto from LJay Manayon
Bondee Controversy
There have been rumors that users’ credit card information is leaked through the app. However, according to Channel News Asia, Bondee denied the rumors and assured users that their data is safe and secure.
Photo from Bishal Ale Magar
Bondee might not be as intense as other games or apps but it sure is therapeutic. What caught people’s attention is they can add their own touches to the metaverse. Believe it or not, people love a good, cozy, and therapeutic app.
Photo from Bondee
Intrigued? You can download Bondee on both Google Play and Appstore.
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