One of the adulting things to consider in the Philippines is paying for your SSS.
Social Security System (SSS) is an insurance program that can help us through unexpected circumstances such as sickness, maternity, old age, and death. Which is why it has become a necessity for every Filipino as a social protection service.
Photo from Unsplash
Now if you are creating your own career path or just having an unemployed gap, there is no need to worry for your future as you can still enjoy benefits from SSS through voluntary membership.
There are two ways to change your status from employed to voluntary. There is the first one which is very easy and hassle-free via online or if you find it hard or complicated to transact online then you can physically visit any SSS branch.
1. Log in to My.SSS portal
Just login to the My.SSS portal and generate a Payment Reference Number (PRN). Choose “Voluntary’’ or “OFW” as your membership type. This will automatically change your status after the contribution is paid.
You can go to any payment centers nationwide or pay it online for less hassle via GCash.
Photo from SSS Official Website
2. Personally go to the nearest SSS branch office
Check the box that says “Voluntary” under “Type of Payor”, membership status will be updated when the payment is posted.
For Nonworking spouse, put a check mark next to “Non-Working Spouse” on the E-4 form and provide your spouse’s CRN or SSS number and monthly income along with his signature of agreement to your SSS membership.
Photo from Ma. Teresa Barola
Being a voluntary member is just the same as being employed when it comes to the series of benefits which includes:
Sickness
Maternity
Disability
Retirement
Death
Funeral
Salary Loan
There is no harm and all good to being prepared. So don’t be afraid or hesitate to pay for your SSS contributions.
2022 is coming to an end and so is the year of the water tiger. In just a few days, we will welcome 2023 which lands on the Year of the Water Rabbit. The official start of the Lunar New Year of the Water Rabbit is on January 22, 2023.
Feng Shui experts have now identified and interpreted what we have to look forward to in 2023.
Symbol of patience and luck
Photo from Unsplash
The Rabbit, according to Chinese Astrology, symbolized both patience and luck. During this year, we will have peace and success. All zodiac signs will have a good year during this time. The zodiac signs will be lucky in love, career, and overall health.
What the Year of the Rabbits means
Photo from Unsplash
2022 has been a year of different emotions. However, this year, there will be less anger and more calmness and relaxation. Furthermore, money won’t be an issue as it comes smoothly this year. Rabbits are known to be good at handling money which is why 2023 is a great year to receive financial blessings.
The year will be peaceful for all zodiac signs and decision-making will also come without difficulty.
Year of the Rabbit for people born in the Rabbit Sign
Photo from Unsplash
People who are born in the Rabbit sign will have a good year too. They are calm and decisive beings which helps them solve prickly situations. This year, they will have luck with their finances.
Additionally, the rabbits will have an abundant relationship with the Dragon, Ox, and Monkey. However, they have to watch out for the Rooster and Tiger. Moreover, those who are born in the year of the rabbit will most likely irritate the God of Age which is why extra caution is also advised.
2023 Year of the Rabbit Lucky Elements
Photo from Riot Games
Here is the list of Lucky elements during the year of the Rabbit to strengthen your fortune.
Lucky Numbers: 5,7,9 and numbers that have them
Lucky Days: 15th, 27th, and 30th of each month of the Chinese Lunar Year
Lucky Month: March
Lucky Colors: Blue, Green, Yellow, and Black
Lucky Directions: Southwest, West, and Northwest.
Who are lucky in the Year of the Rabbit?
The luckiest signs during the year of the rabbit are the Goat, Pig, and Dog. They will be financially blessed. It is also a good year for their businesses since it is believed that their career will prosper.
Who are unlucky in the Year of the Rabbit?
Those born in the year of the Rooster should be extra cautious in the year 2023. This is because Roosters are the enemies of rabbits. Roosters need to work harder if they want to be prosperous in the year of the Rabbit.
Perfect Year to Establish Relationships
Photo from Unsplash
2023 will be filled with positive emotions. Because of this, making connections and establishing romantic relationships are good during this year. 2023 is also the perfect year to chase your dreams and your passion.
Take good care of your relationships too. Make sure that you stabilize and harmonize the relationships that you have in order for them to prosper and develop.
Aside from relationships, this year is also great for couples who are trying to have a baby. The highest chance to conceive a boy is in the month of July, while to conceive a girl. Chances are high during the month of April.
Photo from Unsplash
2023 surely has a lot of exciting things in store for us, especially for those born under the year of the Rabbit. Of course, it is still important to remember that hard work will make dreams work, which is why no matter what zodiac sign you fall into, working harder and smarter this year is the key to long-term success.
Many Filipinos have made it a tradition to make new year’s resolutions as they enter a new year, where they look forward to changing personal aspects and achieving things.
Photo from Unsplash
There are many things you can choose to work on; if you’re having trouble deciding what kind of goals to create for yourself, here are five inspiring New Year’s resolution ideas to empower you in 2023.
1. Healthier Living
Getting in shape is among the most well-liked New Year’s resolutions, and there’s a solid reason for that: health is crucial! Start out modestly if you’re not used to exercising by resolving to go for a daily stroll across your neighborhood. Simply be sure you move your body and exercise every day, whatever you do.
Photo from Jan Carl Masbate Abad
You can also add the idea of having a healthier diet, as getting in shape and eating healthfully go hand in hand. Start with simple dietary adjustments, such as consuming more fruits and vegetables and fewer processed meals. You can gradually introduce more significant adjustments, such as making all your meals from scratch or quitting meat completely.
2. Less Utang, Bawas Gastos
Tired of having to live through your days from paycheck to paycheck? Now’s the time to change that and start making the right decisions about money! Taking charge of your life by making sensible financial decisions will truly liberate you from financial insecurity.
Photo from Jezreel Magallon
If you’re not used to saving money, start out modestly by allocating a fixed amount into a savings account or piggy bank each month. You can start investing your money in stocks, funds, or other long-term assets once you’ve accumulated some savings. The secret is to remain conscious of your spending and to never lose sight of your financial objectives.
3. Spending More Time with Family and Friends
Spending quality time with loved ones is a frequently undervalued but essential aspect of living a happy and full life. If you find that you are too busy to socialize, try organizing one night each week for a family game night at home with your kids or partner.
Photo from Unsplash
You can also go on a movie night or camping adventure with friends. When it’s not possible to meet up in person, you can utilize social media tools like Skype or Zoom to stay in touch with distant family members. What’s important is that you are able to give some of your time to your loved ones to keep the connection and bond together.
4. Less Chismis
Every interaction with another person has an effect on you, either enhancing or reducing your value. But somehow, along the way, you’ll inevitably hear some chismis, one way or another. Whether it’s between friends, family, or coworkers, chismis or gossip is a harmful kind of communication that may destroy any kind of connection.
Photo from Maricris Marande
Bottom line: Gossiping is nasty, hurtful, and damaging behavior that has to stop. In addition to that most people are unaware of the emotional harm they are doing to themselves on the inside. So, instead of focusing on gossip, why not pay attention to things that would benefit you more, right?
5. Enjoy Life More and Have a Positive Mindset
Have you ever heard the phrase “YOLO”? It means “you only live once,” which is both sad and accurate. This suggests that since we only have one life to live, we should make the most of it. Go tell your crush that you like him/her, pick up some new knowledge, and embark on the journey you’ve always wanted to have!
Photo from Unsplash
Having this resolution has the benefit of being a necessary first step in becoming a happier person. To enjoy life more, choose to do exciting, risky things you haven’t done before.
As we approach 2023, we sincerely hope that these motivational New Year’s resolution ideas have inspired and empowered you. Whatever goals you decide to set for yourself this year, keep in mind that the most important thing is to go forward slowly.
Long-lasting change doesn’t happen overnight, but if we concentrate on getting better every day, we’ll see results before we know it! Wishing everyone a wonderful new year ahead!
Love is sharing a password, this was a tweet from the official Netflix Twitter page back in 2017. However, with the current news on password sharing, the tweet did not age well.
Photo from Unsplash
Netflix announced that in 2023, it will charge users who share their passwords with people outside of their own households. To do this, Netflix is set to launch a new feature on their subscription wherein users will be charged when they share their accounts with non-household members. This feature will be effective in selected countries.
Netflix allows password sharing between family members, however, there have been instances of passwords being shared between households. According to Netflix’s Product Innovation Director Chengyi Long, these actions are hindering the company from investing and improving their services.
Photo from Unsplash
In their terms of use, netflix prohibits users from sharing accounts but there were no additional charges when users do share passwords.
In Argentina, for users to share passwords, they can pay $1.70 or about ₱90 per month. Meanwhile, Dominican Republic, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala will be charged $2.99 or about ₱167 per month.
Netflix also announced that they will have options for users to still be able to access their accounts if they are away from home with their “Add to Home” Subscription.
Photo from Unsplash
What are your thoughts about Netflix charging its users for password sharing in between households?
What way to start 2023 than to list down your next travel destinations? It will be a new year full of new opportunities and new travel goals. Let 2023 be your year full of abundance, fun, and new amazing experiences outside of the Philippines.
Dubai, UAE | Photo from Unsplash
It is time to go out on fantastic adventures with family and friends, or even on your own with the following countries you can visit with direct flights from Cebu.
1. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok, Thailand – The city of Angels, should definitely be part of your 2023 travel destination list. Bangkok is famous for its cultural landmarks and its red-light districts. The nightlife scene in Bangkok is also something that you definitely have to experience in your lifetime.
Bangkok, Thailand | Photo from Unsplash
Bangkok, Thailand | Photo from Unsplash
Bangkok, Thailand | Photo from Unsplash
Bangkok, Thailand | Photo from Unsplash
Bangkok, Thailand | Photo from Unsplash
There are about 378 direct flights per week from Cebu to Bangkok
Here are the following airlines that offer Cebu to Thailand direct flights:
Philippines AirAsia
Cebu Pacific
Thai AirAsia
AirAsia
Scoot
2. South Korea
South Korea- the Land of the Morning Calm, is every K-drama and K-pop fan’s dream destination. Aside from Kpop Idols and Korean fried chicken, South Korea offers amazing cultures, clothing, and cuisine as well.
South Korea | Photo from Unsplash
South Korea | Photo from Unsplash
South Korea | Photo from Unsplash
South Korea | Photo from Unsplash
South Korea | Photo from Unsplash
One of the most visited places in South Korea is the Namsan Seoul Tower which offers a beautiful view of the city at night.
Here are the following Airlines that offer flights from Cebu to South Korea:
JEJUair
Incheon to Cebu/Cebu to Incheon
2x weekly (Tue&Fri)
JinAir
Incheon to Cebu/Cebu to Incheon
1x weekly
Asia Airlines
Incheon to Cebu/Cebu to Incheon
1x weekly (Monday)
3. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is Taiwan’s capital city. It boasts amazing temples that go back to the dynasties. Not only that, but it also has an array of Chinese art. Also, the cultural aspect successfully mixes with the city’s modern age.
Taipei, Tawian | Photo from Unsplash
Taipei, Tawian | Photo from Unsplash
Taipei, Tawian | Photo from Unsplash
Taipei, Tawian | Photo from Unsplash
There are also a lot of amazing restaurants in Taipei that offer amazing cuisines that are unique to your palette.
Here are the airlines that offer direct flights from Cebu to Taipei:
China Airlines
4x weekly (Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat)
EVA Air
Taipei to Cebu/Cebu to Taipei
1x weekly (Fri)
4. Hongkong
Hong Kong is not only famous for its thriving economy, but it is also a hot pot of amazing cultures. It is the culinary capital of Asia because of its delicious local dishes and food fusions from around the world.
Hongkong | Photo from Unsplash
Hongkong | Photo from Unsplash
Hongkong | Photo from Unsplash
Hongkong | Photo from Unsplash
Hongkong | Photo from Unsplash
If you love shopping, you will surely love Hong Kong since it is filled with luxurious shopping malls, trendy boutiques, and even traditional stores.
Here are the airlines that offer direct flights from Cebu to Hong Kong:
Cathay Pacific
Hong Kong to Cebu/Cebu to Hongkong
2x weekly (Tue & Fri)
Philippine Airlines
5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
See the Petronas Twin Towers in person and visit Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. KL offers amazing culture which is why it is considered one of Southeast Asia’s gems. There are also a lot of food varieties and flavorful Malaysian cuisine in the city.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Photo from Unsplash
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Photo from Unsplash
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Photo from Unsplash
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Photo from Unsplash
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Photo from Unsplash
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Photo from Unsplash
Here are the airlines that offer direct flights from Cebu to Kuala Lumpur:
AirAsia Philippines
3x weekly
6. Doha, Qatar
Doha, Qatar boasts its tradition and modernity. Not only that, but you will also find yourself enjoying fun outdoor activities from skydiving to scuba diving. Doha is also filled with amazing museums that capture different cultures.
Doha, Qatar | Photo from Re Joice
Doha, Qatar | Photo from Re Joice
Doha, Qatar | Photo from Re Joice
Doha, Qatar | Photo from Re Joice
Doha, Qatar | Photo from Re Joice
Doha, Qatar | Photo from Re Joice
Doha, Qatar | Photo from Re Joice
Doha, Qatar | Photo from Re Joice
Doha, Qatar | Photo from Re Joice
Doha, Qatar | Photo from Re Joice
Another thing to look forward to in Doha is its out-of-this-world architecture. You will see amazing skyscrapers and tall buildings.
Here are the airlines that offer direct flights from Cebu to Doha, Qatar
Qatar Airways
Doha to Cebu/Cebu to Doha
Daily flights
7. Los Angeles, CA
When you hear Los Angeles, you immediately think of Hollywood. However, there are other more things that Los Angeles can offer. Los Angeles is also known for its amazing beaches such as Santa Monica, Malibu, Venice Beach, and Long Beach.
Los Angeles, CA | Photo from Unsplash
Los Angeles, CA | Photo from Unsplash
Los Angeles, CA | Photo from Unsplash
Los Angeles, CA | Photo from Unsplash
Los Angeles, CA | Photo from Unsplash
Not only that, but in Los Angeles, you can also find yourself in the magical world of Universal Studios Hollywood.
Currently, the only airline that offers direct flights from Cebu to Los Angeles is Philippine Airlines.
8. Dubai, UAE
Last but definitely should not be the least on your list is Dubai. Dubai is one of the most famous destinations for the holidays. With its amazing skyscrapers, luxury life, and culture, Dubai boasts a lot of amazing things to offer to international tourists.
Dubai, UAE | Photo from Unsplash
Dubai, UAE | Photo from Unsplash
Dubai, UAE | Photo from Unsplash
Dubai, UAE | Photo from Unsplash
Dubai, UAE | Photo from Unsplash
Dubai, UAE | Photo from Unsplash
Dubai, UAE | Photo from Unsplash
Dubai is also famous for the Burj Khalifa which is one of the tallest buildings in the world. It has a great view of the city from high up.
Here are the airlines that offer Cebu to Dubai direct flights:
Emirates
Dubai to Cebu/Cebu to Dubai
What are you waiting for? Go and book your flight and turn your 2023 travel goals into reality!
It’s not too late to treat yourself or your loved ones to a brand-new phone. Phones do not have to be costly, they just need to be functional and have great features. There are phones that give you amazing performance without breaking your wallet and lucky for you, these phones are under ₱5,000.
Photo from POCO Global YouTube Channel
Get in, Sugboanon, we’re going shopping! Here are the 8 Best Android Phones of 2022 under PHP5,000.
1. Vivo Y02
Vivo Y02 is an entry-level smartphone that is perfect for basic use. It also sports an 8-megapixel main camera and a 5-megapixel front camera. It has a 6.51-inch display and provides its users with a bright and vibrant screen experience.
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
The phone does have 2GB RAM which limits the apps you can download. However, this is still great for people who do not use phones for heavy-duty work.
The Vivo Y02’s battery life is good for its price too. It can last 21 hours when in use. If you are a first-time android user, this phone is the one for you.
Redmi A1 is another basic android phone good for everyday use. It has a decent camera for its price and great battery life.
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
It has an all-plastic exterior but is equipped with a textured back panel giving it a sleek look that can withstand friction. The phone also sports an 8-megapixel main camera with a QVGA depth sensor and a 5-megapixel selfie camera.
Xiaomi launched another affordable but high-quality phone which is the Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro. The phone has decent performance for its price and has long-lasting battery life.
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
The Poco M4 Pro sports a 6.43-inch screen with 2400×1080 pixel 409 PPI and 90Hz AMOLED display. This allows its users to have a vibrant watching experience. It also comes in 3 different storage sizes: 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB.
The phone also offers a 64-megapixel rear camera and a 16-megapixel selfie camera. This phone is perfect for people who love taking pictures since it offers good-quality photos for its price.
Specs:
MediaTek Helio G96
6GB/8GB RAM
128/256GB storage
6.4-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display, 90hz refresh rate
64-megapixel f/1.8 main camera with PDAF, 8-megapixel f/2.2 ultra-wide-angle camera, 2-megapixel macro camera
16-megapixel f/2.25 selfie camera
4G
WiFi, Bluetooth 5.1, side-mounted fingerprint scanner
Another Android phone to add to your “New Year, New Phone” list is the realme C35. This phone sports both glowing green and Glowing black colors, which add to its aesthetic. The realme C3 sports a 50-megapixel main camera. Video recordings can run up to 1080p/30FPS for this phone.
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
The phone is also perfect for basic everyday tasks and even playing games. realme C35 runs smoothly and is good at multitasking.
Specs:
Unisoc Tiger 616 processor
4GB LPDDR4X RAM
64GB/128GB internal storage
6.6-inch Full HD+ IPS display, 180hz touch sampling
50-megapixel f/1.8 main camera with PDAF, 2-megapixel f/2.4 macro camera, 2-megapixel f/2.4 mono camera
8-megapixel f/2.0 selfie camera
4G, LTE
WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, side-mounted fingerprint scanner
The UMIDIGI A7s sports a full-on plastic build which is the basic material you can get for a wallet-friendly phone. However, the plastic build on the UMIDIGI is not tacky. Instead, it still gives the phone a good look.
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
The phone itself is of good quality. It offers an IPS LCD screen which allows its users to experience realistic images with good color quality.
The UMIDIGI A7 has a triple camera set up on the back. The rear camera has 13 megapixels while the front camera has 8 megapixels.
Although the phone is not known for its camera quality, it is popular for its amazing battery life. This is because the phone’s battery has a 4150mAh capacity.
The best feature of this phone is its infrared thermometer. This allows its users to take body temperatures quickly.
Oppo has been launching budget-friendly phones and their Reno8 Pro+ is one of them. This phone sports a minimalist and chic design. It is also fairly easy and comfortable to hold because of its flat design.
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Unlike other wallet-friendly android phones, the Oppo Reno8 pro+ is made of glass. This allows the phone to have a modern look which makes it look high-end.
The Reno8 Pro+ uses a Sony IMX766 50MP camera. It has an 8-megapixel wide-angle camera and a 2-megapixel camera. The front camera on the other hand is equipped with a 32-megapixel camera with autofocus.
Performance-wise, the Reno8 Pro’s shows no issues when apps are running in the background. What’s better is that you can even play games for hours and there is no heat buildup.
Specs:
Dimensions: 161.2 x 74.2 x 7.3 mm (6.35 x 2.92 x 0.29 in)
Weight: 183 g (6.46 oz)
Build: Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame
The realme CY21 has a two-tone diamond cut design. It is also textured which helps its users have a firm grip on the phone.
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
You also get a triple camera setup in the back as well as a fingerprint reader. The phone’s camera offers 13-megapixel rear cameras with 2-megapixel black and white lens and a 2-megapixel Macro lens. Meanwhile, it also has a front camera with 5 megapixels.
Specs:
Dimensions: 164.5 x 76 x 9.1 mm
Display: 6.5 inches, LCD, HD+
Storage: 32/64GB
Camera
Rear Camera: 13MP Main Camera + 2MP B&W lens + 2MP Macro lens; 1080P 30FPS
The Poco X3 Pro is perfect for you if you are into gaming. This phone offers its users great gaming performance. It has a powerful processor despite its budget-friendly price which is hard to find in other budget phones.
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Photo from Lazada
Poco X3 Pro sports a dual-tone design. It also has great protection because of its Corning’s Gorilla glass 6. Display-wise, the phone offers a decent picture quality that is also good enough for gaming.
The phone’s camera sports a 48-megapixel main camera and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide-angle-camera.
Are you looking for a new and relaxing Glamping spot in Cebu? Camp Paradisio in Tabogon offers a glamping experience for you and your family. That’s not all, they also have wallet-friendly options for a budget vacation.
Photo from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook Page
Camp Paradisio gives you a beautiful overlooking of the ocean as you relax and enjoy their camping site.
Accommodation and Amenities
Camp Paradisio is equipped with Cabanas and overnight cottages that can fit you and your whole family. All the Cabanas and overnight cottages have an electric fan and water sink. Of course, the camping experience is not complete without a camping grill. Worry not, all the cabanas and cottages are also equipped with a private grill.
The interior and exterior of the Cabanas and Cottages really give you the outdoor camping vibes.
Cabanas:
Cabana 1
Good for 20-25 pax
Cabana 2
Good for 30-35 pax
Cabana 3-5
Good for 15-20 pax
Mini Umbrella 1-3
Good for 4 pax
Photo from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook PagePhoto from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook PagePhoto from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook Page
Overnight Cottages/Rooms
Tent
Good for 2 pax
Family tent
Good for 4 pax
Pyramid 1
Good for 4 pax
Pyramid 2
Good for 2 pax
Pyramid 3
Good for 2 pax
Pyramid 4
Good for 4 pax
Pyramid 5
Good for 4 pax
Teepee
Good for 2 pax
Kamalig
Good for 12 pax
Chalet
Good for 8 pax
Tribe
Good for 16 pax
2 floors
They also serve Pinoy and American Breakfast upon request.
Photo from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook PagePhoto from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook PagePhoto from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook Page
Fun Water Activities
Camp Paradisio is not only limited to camping. They also have fun water activities for you to try such as:
Kayak
Stand Up Paddle
Pedal boat
Camping has never been more fun! Grab your camping bags and head to Camp Paradisio for your quick glamping getaway.
Photo from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook PagePhoto from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook PagePhoto from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook PagePhoto from Camp Paradisio Tabogon Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Entrance fee:
Adults: ₱150 Weekend/Holidays; ₱100 Weekdays
Children (4 feet below)
Opening hours: N/A
COTTAGE FEES
Cabana 1: ₱2,000 per day, good for 20-25 persons
Cabana 2: ₱2,500 per day, good for 30-35 persons
Cabana 3,4,5: ₱1,000 per day, good for 15-20 persons
BY BUS: from Cebu City, Take a yellow bus to Tabogon Poblacion ₱150 per person, from Terminal it’s 10 min by habal-habal to Camp Paradisio ₱70 per person.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Camp Paradisio” in Tabogon.
You know what they say, the first impression always lasts. And do you know what influences a first impression? Clothing.
Photo from Harvey Cenit
Clothing is a necessity since it brings warmth to people ever since the beginning of time when fur and leaves were used and wrapped around the body. Now, clothing comes in all shapes, sizes, and even designs. And as time passed by other accessories have been created to help people become presentable as well.
Fashion designers have emerged to bring clothing and jewelry to a whole new level. And proudly, some world-renowned fashion designers are from the Queen City of the South.
Here are 6 amazing and world-renowned Cebuano Fashion Designers.
1. Monique Lhuillier
Monique Lhuillier is a Filipino-French fashion designer who hails proudly from Cebu City, Cebu. Monique graduated from Saint Theresa’s College. She is the brain behind a popular bridal and ready-to-wear brand. Monique is internationally recognized as a designer.
Photo from Monique Lhuillier
Photo from Monique Lhuillier
Photo from Monique Lhuillier
Photo from Monique Lhuillier
Photo from Monique Lhuillier
She first established her brand, with her husband Tom Bugbee, in 1996. Now, their company is one of the leading fashion houses in America.
The Monique Lhuillier brand is famous for its luxury and femininity. A-list celebrities that are fans of Monique Lhuillier include Emma Stone, Blake Lively, Gwyneth Paltrow, Reese Witherspoon, Taylor Swift, and Jessica Alba. Even the former first ladies Michelle Obama and Melania Trump are among those who wear Monique Lhuillier.
2. Furne One Amato
Furne One Amato is a Dubai-based fashion designer. He was born in Cebu City. His fashion influence came from his birthplace which he described as a place full of cultural influences and innovations. Aside from his birthplace, he is also inspired by his mother’s and grandmother’s styles.
Photo from Furne One Amago
Photo from Furne One Amago
Photo from Furne One Amago
Photo from Furne One Amago
Photo from Furne One Amago
Furne’s fashion designs come from the culture that he is exposed to. His fashion creations helped him build his own label “Amato Couture”. Amato was launched in 2002 and fashion Elites all over UAE fell in love with his creations.
Furne’s fashion is described as fearless, chic, and not for the faint of heart. Celebrities who use Furne’s creations include Beyonce, Katy Perry, Jennifer Lopez, Nicki Minaj, Shakira, Nicole Scherzinger, and Jessie J.
3. Jann Bungcaras
Jann Barungcas is a young fashion designer who became known for his sustainable fashion wherein he uses discarded textiles from landfills.
He grew up in Cebu and Southern Leyte and graduated valedictorian in High School. According to his biography, his parents wanted him to be a doctor however his love for design made him pursue his dreams.
Photo from Jann Bungcaras Facebook Page
Photo from Jann Bungcaras Facebook Page
Photo from Jann Bungcaras Facebook Page
Photo from Jann Bungcaras Facebook Page
Photo from Jann Bungcaras Facebook Page
He is also a Bench Design Award alumni and was a semi-finalist in the Redress Design Awards which is a global competition. Jann’s fashion does not follow any gender construct and his designs can be worn by anyone. His collections are also historic, inspired by his love for Cebu’s history.
Famous people who have worn his designs are Ricky martin, Greyson Chance, Nadine Lustre, James Reid, Kyline Alcantara, Jache Manere, Brett Jackson, Rabiya Mateo, and Mari Jasmine among others.
4. Harvey Cenit
Harvey Cenit was born in Medellin Town, Cebu. He is an alumnus of the University of the Philippines Cebu and graduated with a degree in Fine Arts.
Harvey was named the Season 3 of Fashion Factor champion. The Fashion Factor is one of UAE’s largest fashion competitions. Aside from that, he also won an international award and was named Most Promising Fashion Designer of the Year during the 2016 Filipino Times Awards.
Photo from Harvey Cenit
Photo from Harvey Cenit
Photo from Harvey Cenit
Photo from Harvey Cenit
Photo from Harvey Cenit
Photo from Harvey Cenit
He is now the Head of Couture Designer for Al Aroosa Aniqah which is a UAE-based fashion house.
Famous celebrities who have worn Harvey Cenit’s designs are Lea Salonga, Maria Gigante, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, and Miss World 2021 Philippines Tracy Maureen Perez.
5. Susanne Verallo
On the aspects of Jewelry, A young Cebuana designer is making noise in the Big Apple, New York City. She is Susanne Verallo and she was born and based in Cebu City. She graduated from the University of San Carlos with a Bachelor’s degree in interior design. She also has a Master’s degree in product design from Domus Academy in Milan, Italy.
Photo from Susanne Verallo
Photo from Susanne Verallo
Photo from Susanne Verallo
Photo from Susanne Verallo
Photo from Susanne Verallo
Photo from Susanne Verallo
Susanne’s jewelry designs are from upcycled shell offcuts. Her daring designs are inspired by the Philippines’ heritage and have strong Filipino craftsmanship. Susanne sees to it that her jewelry collections will be loved by “women who are not afraid to stand out and make a statement” according to her website.
6. Cary Santiago
Another world-renowned fashion designer is Cary Santiago. He is the brain behind the magnificent gowns during the Mrs. UAE World.
Cary was born in Cebu and is the youngest child of a seamstress. He started creating his own designs at 15 and made ready-to-wear designs by 23. From a small rental place in Cebu to UAE, Santiago’s fashion designs are now famous all over the world.
Photo from Cary Santiago
Photo from Cary Santiago
Photo from Cary Santiago
Photo from Cary Santiago
Photo from Cary Santiago
His falcon-inspired gown which was worn by Debanjali Kamstra during the first Mrs. UAE world was named Most Exotic Costume.
Santiago has designed gowns and dresses for Miss Universe Philippines 2019 Gazini Ganados, Beyonce, Paris Hilton, Tyra Banks, Charo Santos-Concio, Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo, and Kris Aquino.
Cary Santiago also won the Most Creative Force Award from Philippine Tatler.
Cebu is definitely the hot pot of talented people, especially world-famous designers. Sugbuanons are definitely making waves in the international scene and we are all here for it!
Another great way to relax is to go out of town with family and friends. Lucky for you, you can rent the Mahogany house in Barili to yourselves. Enjoy the fresh and cooler temperatures of the area to beat the heat.
Photo from Mahogany House Facebook Page
Amenities and Accommodation
Mahogany House has a wide space where you can enjoy yourself with your companions. The place is big enough to accommodate 16 to 25 people which makes it a great place to celebrate events like birthdays, reunions, and even company outings.
Photo from Mahogany House Facebook Page
Great Outdoors
The mahogany house offers an experience closer to nature. The area is filled with greens and all kinds of plants which give off a cool vibe. The air is crisp and cool all around which you and your family will surely enjoy.
Relax at their pool deck and take a swim in their pool complete with a jacuzzi. The place is also equipped with mini cottages complete with tables and chairs.
They also have a treehouse with two hammocks and one tent for you to use and enjoy.
Photo from Mahogany House Facebook PagePhoto from Mahogany House Facebook PagePhoto from Mahogany House Facebook Page
Cozy and Native-style Cabin
The highlight of the Mahogany house is its Vacation house and native-style cabins. As you rent the whole place, you will have exclusive use of the cabins on the property.
Main Cabin
Has two (2) rooms: The Main room (w/bathroom) and the Tower Room (Fan room)
The Second Cabin
Has two (2) airconditioned rooms with two (2) bathrooms near the cabin
Each cabin is designed with a beautiful wooden interior and exterior. The ceiling also sports a rattan-inspired design.
There is a fully-functional kitchen complete with utensils, plates, glasses, a stove, a refrigerator, a rice cooker, a microwave, and more.
Photo from Mahogany House Facebook PagePhoto from Mahogany House Facebook PagePhoto from Mahogany House Facebook PagePhoto from Mahogany House Facebook Page
Outdoor Movie Night
They also have a campfire area where you can gather with your friends and family. You can even have an outdoor movie night as well since the place offers an outdoor movie screening.
What better way to spend your vacation than spending it with everyone you are close to, and Mahogany house is the perfect place for that.
Do not forget to book your reservations as the Mahogany house only has rental for the whole place.
Photo from Mahogany House Facebook PagePhoto from Mahogany House Facebook PagePhoto from Mahogany House Facebook PagePhoto from Mahogany House Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Entrance fee: N/A
Opening hours: N/A
EXCLUSIVE OVERNIGHT RATES:
Monday to Thursday: ₱12,500 per night, 16 pax
Friday: ₱13,500 per night, 16 pax
Sunday: ₱13,500 per night, 16 pax
Saturday and Holidays: ₱16,000 per night, 16 pax
PROMO RATES for January
January 3,4,5,9,10,11,12: ₱11,000 per night, 16 pax
