At 55, Filipino mountaineer Lito de Veterbo has officially set the Guinness World Record for the Fastest Crossing of the Philippines on Foot, walking from the northern tip of Luzon to the southern end of Mindanao.
Purpose Over Pace
Photo from Lito De Veterbo
For five months, he walked 16–18 km a day, mostly alone. His mission: to spread the message of Leave No Trace, urging Filipinos to protect the outdoors that protect us.
The Recognition
Photo from Lito De Veterbo
On October 22, Guinness World Records formally acknowledged his achievement, placing both his name, and the Filipino spirit of endurance, on the global stage.
Walking With Meaning
Photo from Lito De Veterbo
Known in the outdoor community as “Mr. LNT,” de Viterbo’s journey wasn’t about competition. It was about commitment, respect for the land, and disciplined advocacy.
A Legacy in Every Step
Photo from Lito De Veterbo
Communities welcomed him, LGUs joined him, and strangers became friends. His feat reminds us that preparation beats fear and purpose beats fatigue.
Honoring the Man
Photo from Lito De Veterbo
Sir Lito de Viterbo’s journey proves that greatness is built step by step, with humility, clarity, and unwavering resolve. Mabuhay ka, Sir Lito.
Across TikTok, Instagram, and weekend pop-ups, a growing number of Gen Z adults are proudly buying plushies, cartoon hoodies, Pokémon merch, and tiny collectibles like Sonny Angels. What looks like “kiddie shopping” from the outside has evolved into a cultural shift rooted in self-soothing and nostalgia.
According to mental health advocates and consumer behavior researchers, many young adults are turning to childhood symbols as comfort items in a stressful and unstable world. Economic uncertainty, social pressure, and digital burnout have made nostalgia a coping tool, one that’s cute, comforting, and conveniently available at checkout.
Why Gen Z Reaches Backward
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Psychologists like Sohini Rohra and play therapy experts such as Beatrix Aileen Sison explain that reconnecting with childlike joy can be part of emotional regulation and inner child healing. Growing up in a hyper-digital, hyper-critical environment pushed many young people to mature too quickly. Reclaiming childhood objects becomes a way to slow down and feel safe again. According to mental health insights, nostalgia can reduce stress, increase feelings of belonging, and offer emotional grounding in moments of anxiety.
The Stress Relief Effect
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Nostalgic objects work because they transport the brain back to a time that felt easier and more predictable. Mental health professionals note that this kind of emotional recall can soothe stress responses and help the brain relax. Small habits, like eating childhood snacks or collecting tiny figurines, become rituals that provide comfort. For young adults juggling career pressure, relationship confusion, financial worry, and constant online comparison, these rituals offer pockets of joy and control.
Self-Care, Rebranded
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Gen Z has also redefined self-care. Instead of spa days and silent retreats, self-care now includes cartoon-print pajamas, blind-box toys, and merchandise from childhood franchises. According to lifestyle trend analyses, today’s young adults prioritize emotional connection over luxury. A ₱500 trinket that sparks serotonin can feel more “worth it” than a traditional self-care purchase. It’s playful. It’s personal. It’s a rebellion against the idea that adulthood has to be joyless, polished, or serious 24/7.
When Healing Turns Into Overspending
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But the trend has a downside. Financial experts warn that emotional spending, even in the name of “healing”, can become impulsive and avoidant. With constant trend cycles and social feeds showing new releases every week, nostalgia can turn into a shopping trap. Retail therapy offers a quick dopamine hit, but it doesn’t resolve long-term stress. According to behavioral finance studies, emotional spending can create guilt, which then fuels more stress, a loop that leaves young adults stuck between healing and debt.
Finding Balance
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Inner child healing doesn’t require a growing shelf of collectibles. Psychologists emphasize balance, playful habits, mindful spending, and emotional awareness. Nostalgia can be healing when it’s intentional, not compulsive. The goal isn’t to live in the past, but to integrate the best parts of childhood into an adult life that feels full, supported, and joyful.
The Bottom Line
Gen Z isn’t “immature” for buying plushies and toys. They’re responding to a world that demands resilience too early and too often. Nostalgic spending can be healing, as long as it doesn’t become a coping mechanism that empties wallets in the name of wellness. Healing your inner child is valid. Just don’t let that inner child steal your debit card.
Thinking about quitting before the year ends? Here’s a twist many employees don’t expect: you’re still entitled to your 13th month pay, no drama, no loopholes, no problem.
It’s Guaranteed by Law
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Under DOLE rules and Presidential Decree No. 851, all rank-and-file employees must receive 13th month pay, even if they resign or are terminated before December.
Who Qualifies?
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Anyone who isn’t a managerial employee and has worked at least one month during the year is entitled to the benefit. Managers may receive it only if the employer chooses to grant it.
How It’s Computed
The amount is 1/12 of your total basic salary for the year. Example: If someone earns ₱20,000 monthly and worked three months, they receive ₱5,000.
When You Should Receive It
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Employers must release the 13th month pay on or before December 24. If you resign, it should be given along with your final pay within 30 days.
Not a Christmas Bonus
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The 13th month pay is mandatory by law. The Christmas bonus? Completely optional and up to your employer.
There’s a new fire in the world of dried fruits, and it’s coming straight from Cebu. Profood International Corporation, the country’s leading producer of dried fruits and tropical products, has just unveiled its newest innovation: the Cebu Brand Spicy Dried Mango, a bold reinvention of the world-renowned Cebu Dried Mango.
This exciting new product brings together two Filipino favorites, the natural sweetness of premium Carabao mangoes and the fiery thrill of proprietary blend locally sourced chili powder, creating a one-of-a-kind flavor experience that’s sweet, spicy, and unmistakably Filipino.
Where Tradition Meets Adventure
Photo from Profood International Corporation
The Cebu Brand Spicy Dried Mango was born from a simple but daring idea: to blend tradition and innovation. While staying true to the classic taste that made Cebu dried mangoes famous across the globe, Profood wanted to offer something new for today’s modern, thrill-seeking consumers.
This product isn’t just a twist, it’s a statement. It represents how Profood continues to evolve with food trends, crafting products that excite global taste buds while honoring its Cebuano roots.
From Cebu to the World
Photo from Profood International Corporation
Founded by the Uy family in 1978, Profood International Corporation started as a small family business in Cebu and has grown into a global leader in dried fruits, preserves, juices, purees, and concentrates. Today, it exports to over 50 countries across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, the Caribbean, and Oceania.
Behind this success is an unrelenting focus on quality and consistency. With factories in Cebu, Bulacan, and Davao, Profood ensures a year-round supply of the freshest tropical fruits, the very same fruits used to make every pack of Cebu Brand Spicy Dried Mango.
Certified World-Class Quality
Photo from Profood International Corporation
Every bite of Cebu Brand Spicy Dried Mango is backed by decades of expertise and rigorous standards. Profood holds multiple international certifications — ISO 9001:2015, HACCP, Kosher, Halal, and BRCGS — ensuring that every product meets global benchmarks in safety and quality.
Each pack undergoes shelf-life and microbiological testing, guaranteeing that the signature balance of sweetness and heat stays perfectly preserved for consumers everywhere.
The Home of the Original Dried Mango
Photo from Profood International Corporation
While Profood continues to innovate, it never forgets where it started, Cebu. Visitors can experience this legacy firsthand at the Profood Gallery Mango Museum and Giftshoppe in Mandaue City.
Other Information:
The Giftshoppe, opens Monday to Saturday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, offers the full range of Profood products and uniquely Filipino souvenirs, including, of course, the trailblazing Cebu Brand Spicy Dried Mango.
Find the Heat Near You
The Cebu Brand Spicy Dried Mango is available at:
• TikTok Shop
• Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark, Mactan Cebu
• SM Hypermarkets, SM Supermarkets, and SM Savemores
• Ayala Center Cebu and Ayala Malls Central Bloc Metro Supermarkets
• Pacific Mall Mandaue Metro Supermarket
• Shangs Island Town Center Metro Fresh and Easy
• LG Garden Walk Mactan Metro Supermarket
• Cash and Carry, Landmark, Makati Supermart, South Supermarkets
• VJANDEP Pastel of Camiguin outlets and Airport Souvenir Shops
The New Taste of Cebu Pride
Photo from Profood International Corporation
With its perfect fusion of sweet and spicy, the Cebu Brand Spicy Dried Mango redefines what it means to enjoy a Filipino classic. It’s not just a snack, it’s a celebration of Filipino creativity, craftsmanship, and flavor innovation.
From the heart of Cebu to the rest of the world, Profood International Corporation continues to lead the way, proving that even a beloved classic can still surprise, delight, and turn up the heat.
Ready to tick off your dream destinations without emptying your wallet? Cebu Pacific’s 11.11 PISO Sale lets you fly to top local and international spots for as low as ₱1 one-way base fare, but only for a limited time.
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Sale Details You Shouldn’t Miss
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The promo runs until November 15, 2025, and covers flights from June 1 to October 31, 2026. This deal includes favorite local destinations like Siargao, Boracay, and Cebu, plus international getaways such as Tokyo, Hong Kong, Bali, and Dubai.
What the ₱1 Fare Covers
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Each ticket comes with a 7 kg hand-carry baggage allowance. However, domestic fares exclude Web Admin Fee, 12% VAT, terminal fees, and fuel surcharge. For international flights, expect additional fees such as a ₱550 terminal fee and fuel surcharges.
Did you know that you don’t necessarily need a Senior Citizen ID to enjoy senior discounts in the Philippines? That’s right! The law allows senior citizens to enjoy benefits even if they don’t have their official ID, as long as they can prove their age.
Valid IDs Are Enough
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According to the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 (Republic Act No. 9994), a senior citizen can avail of discounts with any valid government-issued ID that shows their date of birth. This includes:
• Passport
• Driver’s license
• SSS, GSIS, or PhilHealth ID
• Voter’s ID
As long as the ID proves the holder is 60 years or older, establishments are legally obliged to grant the discount.
Businesses Must Comply
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Businesses that refuse to honor this law may face legal consequences. Senior citizens have the right to 20% off on basic goods and services, and establishments are reminded to respect these rights. Refusing a senior discount without proper reason could be considered a violation of the law.
Why This Matters
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Many seniors rely on these discounts to manage daily expenses, especially for essentials like medicine, food, and transportation. Knowing that a Senior Citizen ID is not the only acceptable proof can save time, reduce stress, and ensure seniors continue to access their rightful benefits.
Quick Tip
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If you’re a senior citizen without an ID, always carry a government-issued document with your birthdate. Show it at the counter, and you should get your discount without hassle.
When Typhoon Tino dumped days’ worth of rain across Cebu, the city once again faced familiar scenes, streets turning into rivers, cars stalled mid-road, and residents wading through murky floodwaters. But in the middle of it all, one place quietly held its ground: Cebu Business Park (CBP).
While nearby areas struggled with flash floods, CBP stayed surprisingly dry. It wasn’t luck, it was planning done right. The CBP Redevelopment Project, launched back in 2022, has been upgrading the business district’s drainage and infrastructure to make it stronger and more climate-ready. And this week, we saw exactly why that investment matters.
Not Just Another Construction Project
Photo from Cebu Business Park
CBP’s ongoing redevelopment isn’t your usual “cosmetic upgrade.” It’s a multi-phased mission to modernize everything from underground drainage pipes to catch basins and stormwater outflows. The goal? To build a community that can handle growth and storms, literally.
While many areas of Cebu were dealing with ankle-deep floods after Typhoon Tino, CBP’s newly upgraded system kept the business district’s roads clear and functional. Residents and office workers barely noticed what could’ve been another major flood event.
The Difference Between Reaction and Preparation
Photo from Josh F. Almonte
Here’s the thing, Cebu isn’t new to flood control projects. Billions have been poured into drainage systems across the city. Yet every major storm seems to prove that something’s still not right. Pipes clog, projects stall, and floodwaters rise.
CBP shows what can happen when planning isn’t just on paper. Its management didn’t wait for another disaster to happen. They studied drainage maps, upgraded weak spots, and coordinated with the community. That’s proactive urban management, not just a post-typhoon cleanup.
What the Rest of Cebu Can Learn
Photo from Cebu Business Park
CBP’s progress is a wake-up call. If one community can future-proof itself, so can others. The formula isn’t complicated, consistent upgrades, transparent communication, and long-term vision. Instead of quick fixes, it’s about investing in systems that actually work when the skies open up.
With climate change bringing stronger and more frequent typhoons, Cebu needs more than drainage promises. It needs working models, and CBP is showing us one right now.
Building the Cebu We Deserve
Photo from Cebu Business Park
CBP isn’t perfect, construction is still ongoing, and yes, there are moments of inconvenience. But when Typhoon Tino came, the results spoke for themselves. The area stayed safe, dry, and operational, proving that resilience starts from preparation, not panic.
If Cebu wants to stop flooding every year, maybe it’s time we stop looking elsewhere for solutions and start learning from within. Because sometimes, the best example of progress is already right in our backyard.
High in the misty mountains of Barangay Cantabaco, Toledo City, lies a quiet village that has become a haven for climbers. The road leading up is steep and rough, flanked by bamboo houses perched on the slopes and forests that seem to drop away into mist.
Life here is simple, locals grow vegetables, raise chickens and cows, and live far from the bustle of city life. Yet this peaceful hillside community hides one of the most exciting climbing destinations in the Philippines. The warmth of the villagers and the serene landscape make the journey as memorable as the climb itself.
The Local Spirit and Climbing Potential
Photo grab from Google Maps
What makes Cantabaco truly special is the relationship between climbers and the local community. Filipino climbers who first bolted routes here made sure to involve and befriend the villagers, showing them the value of the climbing scene. In turn, the locals have embraced the sport, helping maintain access and welcoming climbers from around the world. Though development is slow, new routes continue to appear, and the area remains one of the best climbing spots in Southeast Asia.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
Photo grab from Google Maps
Cantabaco is more than just a climbing destination, it’s a glimpse into Cebu’s mountain life, where simplicity meets adventure. The routes are world-class, the setting is breathtaking, and the people are genuinely kind. Whether you come for the challenge of the limestone or the quiet beauty of the countryside, Cantabaco offers both. For any climber exploring the Philippines, this small but extraordinary village deserves a firm place on your map.
Photo grab from Google Maps
How To Get There?
Location: Barangay Cantabaco, Toledo City
By Car: From Cebu City, drive west toward Toledo City for about an hour and a half. After reaching the main highway near Lutopan, take the steep, winding dirt road that leads up to Barangay Cantabaco. The road can be narrow with sharp turns and sheer drops on the side, so it’s best to use a sturdy vehicle or 4×4. The drive may be nerve-wracking at times, but the view of forested valleys and small farms along the way makes it worth it.
By Commute: For those traveling by public transport, head to Cebu City’s South Bus Terminal or V-hire terminal and take a bus or van bound for Toledo or Lutopan. Ask to be dropped off at Silangan Chapel or near Springpark Resort in Cantabaco. From there, hire a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) for a ten-minute ride to the village proper. Once you arrive, it’s only a short five-minute walk to the cliff, cross a small creek, pay the ten-peso climber fee at the building with the billiards table, then follow the trail behind it until you reach the base of the limestone wall.
Cebu is no stranger to culinary creativity, but when it comes to sisig, the city has taken the sizzling Pampanga original and turned it into something truly its own. From all-day-everyday diners to hidden foodie gems tucked inside city corners, these spots are serving up the crunch, the spice, and the unmistakable umami that make sisig the dish Filipinos can’t resist. Here are three must-try places for your next Cebu food crawl.
1. Sisig Haven
Photo from Sisig Haven Facebook Page
Located along L. Jayme Street in Mandaue City, Sisig Haven has earned a cult following for its inventive takes on the classic. Regulars swear by their Sisig Teriyaki, a sweet-savory twist that hits all the right notes, while the Sisigwarma, a shawarma-style wrap filled with meaty goodness, is a crowd favorite for those on the go. If you’re with friends, the Sisig Platter is perfect for sharing over cold drinks.
How To Get There?
Location: L. Jayme Street, Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Take the Cebu-Mandaue route via A.S. Fortune Road and turn right into L. Jayme Street; parking is available along nearby side roads.
By Commute: If you’re commuting, hop on a jeepney bound for Mandaue proper (Tabok, Paknaan, or Looc routes) and ask the driver to drop you at L. Jayme. From there, it’s just a short walk to this sizzling spot.
2. Chef G House of Sisig 24/7
Photo from Mark Rosal
Open round the clock on Lorega Street, Cebu City, Chef G House of Sisig 24/7 is a haven for midnight eaters and early risers alike. This all-day sisig sanctuary doesn’t stop at the usual pork plate, try their Sisig Shang Rice, a flavorful fusion of sisig and fried rice, or go big with their Sizzling Overload. Whether you’re coming from a night out or a long day at work, this spot promises the comfort of crispy, sizzling perfection at any hour.
How to get there?
Location: Lorega Street, Cebu City, Philippines
By car: Head towards Gorordo Avenue and turn onto Lorega Street, a few minutes away from Ayala Center Cebu or IT Park.
By Commute: Jeepneys passing through Gorordo or the Capitol area can drop you near Lorega; a quick walk takes you right to the restaurant’s doorstep.
3. Sisig 101 Pardo
Photo from Sisig 101 Facebook Page
If you’re craving the OG sisig experience with a few tasty twists, Sisig 101 along E. Sabellano Street, Pardo, Cebu City delivers the goods. Their Classic Pork Sisig is crispy, savory, and perfectly seasoned, while the Chicken Sisig and Sisig Shawarma Wrap keep things exciting. It’s a neighborhood favorite for locals who know exactly where to go for that late-night craving, rain or shine.
How To Get There?
Location: E. Sabellano Street, Pardo, Cebu City, Philippines
By car: Drive down to the southern part of Cebu via N. Bacalso Avenue, then turn into E. Sabellano Street. Limited roadside parking is available nearby.
By Commute: Ride any jeepney headed to Pardo or Lusimba, ask to be dropped near Pardo Parish Church, and walk to the restaurant.
Whether you’re a devoted sisig lover or just discovering its smoky, crispy allure, Cebu has a plate (or sizzling platter) waiting for you. From the inventive to the timeless, these three spots capture the soul of Filipino street-side dining, served with heat, heart, and a side of rice.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is becoming an alarming health issue among Filipino children. Reports from the Department of Health (DOH) show a rise in pediatric cases.
The growing number of young patients reflects a broader problem linked to changing lifestyles, poor nutrition, and limited awareness about kidney health.
Government Response and Action
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The recent visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to a young dialysis patient at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) in Quezon City highlighted the urgent need for stronger preventive measures. The government has since directed the DOH to intensify efforts against CKD through early detection, public awareness, and improved access to healthcare services for children at risk.
The Main Causes of CKD
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Health experts point to diabetes and hypertension as the leading causes of kidney failure in the country. These conditions, once rare among children, are now appearing earlier due to unhealthy eating habits and lack of physical activity. Preventing these illnesses early on is crucial to reducing future CKD cases and ensuring better long-term kidney health.
What Happens in Chronic Kidney Disease
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Chronic Kidney Disease occurs when the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. In its early stages, CKD often has no symptoms, allowing it to progress silently. As the disease worsens, harmful substances build up in the body, leading to fatigue, swelling, and other complications. Without treatment, CKD can progress to kidney failure, requiring lifelong dialysis or a kidney transplant.
How CKD Is Diagnosed
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Early detection can make a significant difference in managing CKD. Simple medical tests are used to identify the condition, including urine tests to detect protein or blood, blood tests to measure creatinine and estimate the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and ultrasound scans to check for structural problems in the kidneys. Regular screening is especially important for children with a family history of kidney disease or congenital kidney issues.
