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Paradise Found in Sumilon

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Paradise Found in Sumilon
Photo grab from Google Maps

Sumilon Island, located at the southeastern tip of Cebu, is a small yet stunning tropical haven. Known for its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, and the ever-changing sandbar, this island is Cebu’s first marine protected area, established in 1974. Its pristine landscapes, vibrant coral reefs, and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Marine Sanctuary and Wildlife

Photo grab from Google Maps

As Cebu’s first marine protected area, Sumilon Island is home to an abundance of marine life. Snorkelers and divers can encounter colorful corals, tropical fish, and occasionally blacktip sharks or whale sharks. The island also supports a variety of bird species, making it ideal for birdwatching. Beyond the water, visitors can explore a lagoon with mangroves, a historic lighthouse, natural caves, and even a small freshwater lake.

The Shifting Sandbar

Photo grab from Google Maps

One of Sumilon Island’s most iconic features is its sandbar. This stretch of white sand continuously shifts in shape and location depending on the tide and season, offering a new experience with every visit. Surrounded by turquoise waters, it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling. The sandbar’s unique beauty draws photographers and travelers from all over the world.

BlueWater Sumilon Island Resort

Photo grab from Google Maps

The island hosts a single resort, the BlueWater Sumilon Island Resort, which offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a variety of activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, and island hiking. For those not staying overnight, the resort also offers a day pass that includes access to the pool, sandbar, and boat transfers, making it convenient for day-trippers.

Photo grab from Google Maps

How to Get There?

Location: Oslob, Cebu, Philippines

  • By Car: Drive south to Bancogon Port. Ride a boat to Sumilon Island.
  • By Commute: From Cebu City, drive or take a bus to the South Bus Terminal in Cebu. From there, ride a bus to Oslob and ask to be dropped off at Bancogon Port. The boat ride to Sumilon Island takes about 7–10 minutes. Shared boats or “banka” rides are cost-effective options. From Dumaguete: Passengers can take a private or shared boat from Dumaguete to Sumilon Island. It’s also common to combine a visit with a trip to Oslob to swim with whale sharks.
Photo grab from Google Maps

The ideal time to visit Sumilon Island is during the dry season, from January to April, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm. Avoid the typhoon season (July to September), while moderate rain occurs from October to December. Planning your trip during the dry months ensures smooth boat rides and clearer waters for snorkeling and diving.

How Much Should You Really Spend on Christmas in the Philippines?

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How Much Should You Really Spend on Christmas in the Philippines?

Christmas in the Philippines is legendary, long, colorful, and heartwarming. From carolers in malls to families gathering for Noche Buena, Filipinos spare no effort to celebrate. But in a world where prices rise every year, one question keeps surfacing: how much should you ideally spend to have a joyful, stress-free Christmas?

Photo from Pexels.com

Understanding the Numbers

Photo from Pexels.com

Recent studies provide a snapshot of Filipino holiday spending:

  • On average, households spend ₱37,106 during the Christmas season, covering gifts, food, and décor (BWorld, 2021).
  • About 45% goes to meals like Noche Buena, while 48% is spent on gifts.
  • A more modest estimate shows some families spend around ₱13,400, though this figure is likely outdated due to rising inflation (Picodi.com).

Clearly, holiday spending can be a heavy financial burden for many families.

What the “Ideal Budget” Looks Like

Photo from Pip Limpios

The ideal budget varies depending on your household, priorities, and lifestyle. Here’s a practical guide:

  • Basic (₱10,000–₱15,000) – Covers a simple Noche Buena, minimal gifts, and basic decorations. Perfect for small households or those on a tight budget.
  • Comfortable (₱20,000–₱25,000) – Allows a decent meal, a few thoughtful gifts, and small festive touches. Suitable for young adults or small families wanting a meaningful but not extravagant celebration.
  • Middle-Class / Moderate (₱30,000–₱40,000) – Provides a proper festive meal, gifts for relatives and friends, and some decorations to make the home feel merry. Reflects the average spending of Filipino households.

For most working adults seeking a balance between joy and financial prudence, ₱25,000–₱35,000 is a realistic target.

Why This Budget Makes Sense

Photo from Pexels.com

Several factors make this range practical:

  • Inflation and rising food costs – Prices of basic goods have increased, making older estimates insufficient for a comfortable holiday.
  • Cultural priorities – Filipinos spend heavily on meals and gift-giving, including for relatives, godchildren, and even officemates.
  • Flexibility – This budget allows households to scale up or down depending on needs, without falling into financial stress.

By focusing on essentials like food and a few meaningful gifts, you can celebrate Christmas fully while staying financially responsible.

Christmas is about warmth, togetherness, and celebration, not how much you spend. With a thoughtful budget, every Filipino household can enjoy the season without financial stress.

Tommy Shelby Returns

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Tommy Shelby Returns
Photo from Peaky Blinders Facebook Page

The legendary gypsy gangster Tommy Shelby is back in a brand-new Peaky Blinders story. Fans of the original series will get to see the character return in Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, continuing the saga of early-1900s Birmingham.

Release Dates

Photo from Peaky Blinders Facebook Page

The movie will first appear in select cinemas on March 6, 2026, before hitting Netflix on March 20. This dual release allows both theatergoers and streaming audiences to experience the story.

Star Power

Photo from Peaky Blinders Facebook Page

Cillian Murphy, the Academy Award-winning actor, reprises his role as Tommy Shelby. His return ensures continuity and adds star appeal to the highly anticipated film.

Story Overview

Photo from Peaky Blinders Facebook Page

Details about the plot are being kept under wraps. Netflix describes the movie as an epic return to the Peaky Blinders world, promising action, intrigue, and drama in the familiar setting of Birmingham.

Visual Teasers

Photo from Peaky Blinders Facebook Page

Netflix has shared the first teaser art, giving fans a glimpse of the film’s atmosphere and style. The visuals suggest a continuation of the dark, stylish aesthetic that defined the original series.

Celebrating Christmas in The Christmas Capital of the South

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Celebrating Christmas in The Christmas Capital of the South
Photo from City Government of Naga, Cebu

City of Naga once again lived up to its title as the Christmas Capital of the South with the official opening of Pasko sa Naga 2025. The celebration began with the lighting of the city’s iconic Christmas Tree, a moment that signaled the start of the holiday season in southern Cebu.

A Beloved Annual Tradition

Photo from City Government of Naga, Cebu

The Christmas Tree lighting has long been a centerpiece of Pasko sa Naga. Held every year, the event brings together families, visitors, and communities who gather to witness the display that reflects the city’s strong Christmas culture.

Crowds from Across Cebu

Photo from City Government of Naga, Cebu

Thousands of spectators from different parts of Cebu flocked to Naga to take part in the festivities. The event transformed the city center into a lively space filled with lights, movement, and shared holiday excitement.

Spirit of Pasko sa Naga

Photo from City Government of Naga, Cebu

Pasko sa Naga continues to showcase the city’s dedication to celebrating Christmas with creativity and community pride. The opening night set the tone for weeks of activities that highlight tradition, unity, and the enduring joy of the season.

What to Eat After Simbang Gabi?

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What to Eat After Simbang Gabi?

Simbang Gabi, the cherished nine-day dawn mass tradition, is not only about faith but also about enjoying the special foods that come with it. Early mornings are made brighter with warm, comforting, and sweet Filipino delicacies that have become a holiday tradition. From rice cakes to hot drinks, these treats are perfect after attending the misa de gallo.

Puto Bumbong: A Purple Treat

Photo grab from Google Maps

Puto bumbong is a steamed purple rice cake made from pirurutong rice. It is served with butter or margarine, grated coconut, and muscovado sugar. Some variations add cheese on top, creating a sweet and slightly salty flavor combination. This colorful delicacy brings warmth and festive cheer to the early morning celebrations.

Bibingka: The Classic Rice Cake

Photo grab from Google Maps

Bibingka is a spongy rice cake baked in clay pots lined with banana leaves. It is topped with salted egg, cheese, and coconut. Its soft texture and rich toppings make it a favorite during the chilly mornings of Simbang Gabi. Bibingka is comforting and festive, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Sikwate: Thick and Rich Hot Chocolate

Photo grab from Google Maps

Sikwate is a traditional Filipino hot chocolate made from tablea or pure cacao tablets. Thick, rich, and slightly bitter, it balances the sweetness of rice cakes like puto bumbong and bibingka. A warm cup of sikwate adds a cozy and indulgent touch to the Simbang Gabi experience.

Taho: Sweet Soy Delight

Taho is a soft, warm snack made from silken tofu, arnibal (sweet syrup), and sago pearls. It is commonly sold by vendors in the early morning and is perfect for enjoying right after attending Simbang Gabi. Its gentle sweetness and comforting texture make it a simple yet satisfying choice.

Lugaw: Comfort in a Bowl

Photo grab from Google Maps

Lugaw is a rice porridge known for its warmth and soothing qualities, similar to chicken soup. It is often served to sick people but is also a popular Simbang Gabi food because of its hearty and comforting nature. Making lugaw at home is easy and allows for a homemade touch to the festive mornings.

Enjoying the Tradition

The foods of Simbang Gabi are more than just snacks, they are a celebration of Filipino culture, warmth, and togetherness. From sweet rice cakes to comforting porridge, these dishes make early mornings memorable and cozy. Sharing them with loved ones makes the holiday season even more special.

What Filipinos Are Playing Right Now – Most Popular Types of Gaming in the Philippines

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What Filipinos Are Playing Right Now – Most Popular Types of Gaming in the Philippines
Photo from Pixabay

Filipinos love to play, but it’s not an exaggeration – it’s actually backed by hard data. The gaming industry nearly reached $5 billion in the past year, with mobile games, esports, and online platforms at the top of the list.

Now, let’s check out what Filipinos are actually spending their time on!

Mobile Legends Turned the Philippines into a Huge Esports Fan

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang owns the Filipino gaming field. MPL Philippines Season 14 broke viewership records with 1.6 million peak viewers, which is up by 900,000 from the same season in 2023. Filipino teams such as Fnatic, ONIC Philippines, and Team Liquid compete at the highest level, and fans show up in impressive numbers.

The M5 World Championship in Manila drew more than 5 million viewers in December 2023 –that made it the most-watched MLBB event ever at the time. The M6 finals later hit 4.1 million peak viewers. MLBB racked up 475 million hours watched globally in 2024, and Filipino players and coaches now appear on international rosters across the Middle East and beyond.

But why does mobile gaming take the lead here? Well, it’s pretty simple – cheap data plans, affordable smartphones, and a young population. About 30 million Filipinos are between 10 and 24 years old – and that’s 28% of the country. Smartphone sales grew 6.1% over the year in 2024, with nearly 18 million units sold.

Online Casinos and E-Games Pull in Record Revenue

The E-Games and E-Bingo sector exploded in 2024 – revenue jumped 165% to PHP 154.51 billion, making up over 41% of all gross gaming revenue nationwide.

More players are discovering Philippines sites that have unrestricted access to live dealer tables, real money slots, and sports betting. GCash and crypto make deposits painless, while bonuses sweeten the deal – and everything works on mobile, so players aren’t tied to a desktop.

BingoPlus leads the charge, though. The livestream bingo platform surpassed 40 million registered users in 2024, which is double from the previous year. DigiPlus, its parent company, reported revenues soaring 306% to PHP 27.3 billion in 2023. The platform combines regular Filipino games such as tong-its and perya with some new, innovative features. Players deposit with GCash, watch live-streamed draws, and withdraw winnings straight to their e-wallets.

Licensed casinos still pulled in PHP 201 billion last year – but the biggest operators see where things are heading. Solaire, NUSTAR, and others are building online platforms to get online players, while PAGCOR reduced licensing fees to 30% of gross gaming revenue starting January 2025 to encourage more operators to go legit.

E-Sabong Stays Banned Despite Billion-Peso Potential

Not every gaming tradition survived the turn towards online. E-sabong, online cockfighting, brought more than PHP 6 billion per year before authorities banned it in 2022.

Regular sabong in physical cockpits remains legal, as the sport traces back centuries in Filipino culture – but online betting on cockfights is the door that stays shut. So, senators rejected revival proposals last year, calling e-sabong “far worse than POGOs” because it directly targeted ordinary Filipinos.

Some underground platforms still work illegally – PAGCOR found 789 active e-sabong operations in early 2024 despite the ban. But legitimate gaming companies have moved on. They’re chasing the e-bingo and online casino markets instead.

Where Filipino Gaming Goes from Here

The government is betting big on regulated online gaming. PAGCOR transformed into a pure regulatory body in 2025, focusing on oversight rather than running its own casinos. Licensing fees dropped, compliance requirements tightened, and the goal is simple: grow legal gaming while choking out illegal operators.

The E-Games sector generated PHP 114.83 billion in just the first half of 2025, crossing $2 billion for the first time ever.

Filipino gamers aren’t slowing down – and whether they’re grinding ranked matches in Mobile Legends, betting on livestreamed bingo, or spinning slots from their phones, the appetite keeps growing. The infrastructure exists, the players are very active, and the industry is only getting bigger.

Himbabawud Falls Adventure for First Time Visitors

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Himbabawud Falls Adventure for First Time Visitors
Photo from Jomar Alinabon

Himbabawud Falls is a breathtaking waterfall destination just 40 minutes from Cebu City.  Located in the mountains of Busay, this natural wonder features a series of cascading falls perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a quick escape from the city. The trek to the falls begins at Lava Mountain River Farm and takes around 45 minutes through a rocky river trail, offering scenic views and a refreshing adventure along the way.

Photo from Jomar Alinabon

Staying Overnight at Lava Mountain River Farm

Photo from Jomar Alinabon

For those wanting to extend the adventure, Lava Mountain River Farm offers Bali-style huts and a stunning pool. Accommodation is surprisingly comfortable and provides a peaceful escape from the city hustle. Booking ahead is recommended, especially on weekends when the farm can get busy.

Photo from Jomar Alinabon

How to Get There?

Location: Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines

  • By Car: From Cebu City, drive up the mountains passing the turn-off to TOPS lookout and Temple of Leah. Continue descending into Busay and follow the Google Maps directions to Lava Mountain River Farm. The roads are steep and winding, so drive carefully. Once at the farm, park your car and prepare for the river trek to the falls.
  • By Commute: If commuting, take a jeepney or habal-habal heading to Busay from Cebu City. Ask the driver to drop you near Lava Mountain River Farm. From there, you’ll still need to walk and trek through the river for about 45 minutes to reach Himbabawud Falls. Hiring a local guide is highly recommended for safety on the slippery trail.

Classic Filipino Games for a Fun Christmas Party

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Classic Filipino Games for a Fun Christmas Party
Photo from Pexels.com

Christmas in the Philippines is always full of laughter, food, and festive activities. One of the most exciting ways to celebrate is by playing traditional Filipino games that bring friends and family together. These games are easy to set up, fun for all ages, and perfect for creating lasting memories during the holiday season.

Paskong Pinoy Henyo

Photo from Pexels.com

Paskong Pinoy Henyo is a fun guessing game for all ages. Players write Filipino Christmas-related words like parol, bibingka, or Simbang Gabi on sticky notes and place them on each other’s foreheads. The person with the note guesses the word by asking yes-or-no questions, using only “Oo,” “Hindi,” or “Pwede” as answers. This game encourages teamwork, quick thinking, and lots of laughter.

Pabitin for Kids

Pabitin is a favorite game for children during Christmas. A bamboo rack filled with treats or small toys is hung and lowered slowly, while kids jump to grab the goodies. This game brings excitement and friendly competition to young players, making the party lively and colorful.

Christmas Charades and Pictionary

Photo from Pexels.com

These classic party games get a holiday twist during Christmas. Players either act out or draw Christmas movies, carols, or Filipino traditions. Both games encourage creativity, humor, and teamwork while keeping the Christmas spirit alive.

Bring Me

Photo from Pexels.com

Bring Me is an energetic game that tests speed and observation. The host calls out an item, such as “Bring me a red phone!” or “Bring me a driver’s license!” Players race to find the item and present it first. Unusual or tricky requests make the game even more exciting for participants of all ages.

Hep Hep Hooray

Hep Hep Hooray is a lively chant-based game. Players take turns following the host’s instructions: one player shouts “Hep Hep” with hands clapping below the waist, and the next player says “Hooray!” with hands raised. Mistakes eliminate players, and the last person standing wins. It is energetic, simple, and full of fun.

Christmas is the perfect time to play these traditional games. They are simple to set up, encourage laughter and interaction, and make any party more festive. With these games, everyone can join in the holiday cheer, creating joyful memories that last long after the season ends.

SWU Phinma Inaugurates Ramon V. Del Rosario (RVR) Building, Reinforcing Its Commitment to Accessible, World-Class Education

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SWU Phinma Inaugurates Ramon V. Del Rosario (RVR) Building, Reinforcing Its Commitment to Accessible, World-Class Education

Southwestern University (SWU) PHINMA officially inaugurated the Ramon V. Del Rosario (RVR) Building on December 12, 2025, at its Main Campus in Urgello, Cebu City. Rising prominently within the campus, the new structure signals a forward-looking chapter for the university, reinforcing its commitment to quality, accessible, and future-ready education.

Architecture with Purpose

Designed as the central hub for SWU PHINMA’s college programs, the RVR Building features modern classrooms, fully air-conditioned classrooms, and collaborative learning spaces designed to foster student engagement, creativity, and innovation. As a 10-floor academic hub, it is equipped to accommodate the University’s growing student population while providing flexible and inspiring spaces for learning. Every corner of the building reflects intentional design, spaces that go beyond functionality to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and meaningful academic engagement.

Honoring a Visionary Legacy

The building is named after Ramon V. Del Rosario, a visionary leader whose lifelong dedication to education and community empowerment has shaped generations. His values of excellence, leadership, and integrity are embedded in the very purpose of the structure, making the RVR Building a lasting tribute to an enduring educational legacy and the first of its kind within PHINMA Education.

A Moment Marked in Light

The inauguration was highlighted by a symbolic lighting ceremony, officially unveiling the RVR Building to the SWU PHINMA community. The event was witnessed by PHINMA Chairman and CEO Ramon R. Del Rosario Jr., together with his family, marking a meaningful and personal milestone in the institution’s history.

Leaders Behind the Milestone

University officials led by SWU PHINMA President Chito B. Salazar and Chief Operating Officer Cheryl Jane P. Chan joined PHINMA Education executives, administrators, and partners in celebrating the achievement. Their presence underscored the collective leadership and shared vision that brought the project to life.

Maria Teresa “Pinky” del Rosario Zeller, daughter of Ramon V. Del Rosario, highlighted that the building represents more than honoring her father’s name. She explained that it reflects his strong belief in education as something that should be accessible to all, giving children from any background the opportunity to shape their own future.

Spaces Built for Students

For the Cobra community, the RVR Building offers more than new classrooms, it provides an environment designed to support growth, collaboration, and personal development. The building empowers students to sharpen their skills, explore ideas, and prepare for their chosen paths with confidence.

A Symbol Beyond Structure

More than bricks and walls, the Ramon V. Del Rosario Building stands as a symbol of opportunity, ambition, and promise. As it becomes an integral part of campus life, it reflects SWU PHINMA’s mission to equip students not only for academic success, but also for meaningful impact in the communities they will one day serve.

Filipinas Continuing to Choose Foreign Spouses

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Filipinas Continuing to Choose Foreign Spouses
Photo from Pexels.com

Many Filipinas continue to build families abroad, as data from the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) shows an annual average of around 70,000 migrant unions. 

Despite fluctuations in recent years, the volume has largely remained steady and is expected to return to its usual levels.

Most Common Foreign Spouses

Photo from Pexels.com

CFO records indicate that Americans consistently rank as the top foreign partners of Filipinos. They are followed by Japanese nationals, with Australians, Canadians, and South Koreans completing the top five nationalities that Filipinos most often marry.

Where Most Migrants Come From

Photo from Pexels.com

The National Capital Region leads with the highest number of Filipino marriage migrants, accounting for more than a fifth of the total. Cebu and Cavite follow as major areas of origin, contributing thousands of individuals who move abroad to join their partners.

Age And Educational Background

Photo from Pexels.com

Filipino marriage migrants typically marry at around age 33. Most have completed either college or high school, and more than half are recorded as non-working at the time of migration, based on data from the past decade.

Migration Through Partnership

Marriage migrants are Filipinos who relocate overseas through foreign citizenship or visa pathways granted after marrying foreign nationals. These unions continue to shape migration trends, reflecting long-standing patterns in global partnerships involving Filipinos.

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