On October 1, 2024, the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño in Cebu implemented a strict dress code policy to end the practice of providing shawls to visitors wearing inappropriate attire for worship. Or to prevent them from wearing inappropriate attire for that matter.
Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto. NinoPhoto from Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino
This decision, announced by the Augustinian Friars, aims to maintain the sanctity and solemnity of the historic church. The policy specifies that inappropriate upper garments include:
Spaghetti straps
Tube tops
Sleeveless shirts
Tank tops
Crop tops
Inappropriate lower attire includes:
Short skirts
Low-waist pants
Ripped jeans
*Any kind of hats is also prohibited.
Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino
Despite the church’s dress code, why does this rule even exist? Shouldn’t we be able to use common sense and dress appropriately without being told? When we attend church, we are entering the house of God!
Dressing respectfully reflects our reverence for God and the sacredness of worship as we make a public covenant with Him; showing honor. Wearing an attire that goes against the dress code can be seen as a sign of disregard, reflecting a lack of respect for the Almighty. And for nonbelievers, it simply shows the lack of respect for other religions, cultures, and traditions.
To our dear Sugboanons, for the love of God—no pun intended, next time you enter the Basilica or any church around the world, it is in our common sense that we should wear proper attire; not because it’s a rule, but to show we respect God enough to call ourselves His worshippers and that we respect the beliefs of other people’s religion.
Over the past few years, gambling has been one of the most progressive industries in integrating innovations. Fintech and gambling software have combined in the recent past, and this has brought change, innovation, security, and efficiency in transactions. Fintech solutions are becoming more deeply embedded in gambling platforms, changing how players engage with online casinos, sportsbooks, and other betting sites. In this article, we will see how fusing the concept of fintech with gambling software is changing the face of online gaming and what it means for stakeholders.
1. The Rise of Fintech in Gambling: A New Approach in Transactions
Fintech has made it possible to develop new technologies in the financial sector with the aim of making the process of transacting faster, safer, and more convenient for consumers. In the gambling industry, these innovations have been quickly implemented as the players require quick, safe, and convenient financial transactions.
Digital Wallets and Instant Payments: E-wallets such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller have become increasingly popular among online gamblers. These wallets enable players to hold money, make deposits, and withdraw quickly compared to conventional methods. To gambling operators, integrating digital wallets is a value proposition to attract players using technology as their preferred mode of payment for convenience and quick transactions.
Cryptocurrency Integration: Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others have successfully penetrated the gambling industry. Cryptocurrencies rely on blockchain based on the transaction’s decentralization, transparency, and security. From players’ perspectives, this ensures privacy and lowers transaction charges. At the same time, it provides a platform through which operators can access players from different parts of the world without the interference of conventional banking systems. Also, since blockchain is unchangeable, all transactions are well protected to minimize fraud cases.
Instant Banking Solutions: Open banking APIs have brought instant banking features to the game, where a player can directly transfer money in real time. This removes the middlemen and reduces the costs of transactions, hence providing a smooth process for the players and operators. These solutions are especially attractive in markets where the use of digital wallets or cryptocurrencies is limited.
2. Enhancing Security: Fintech in the gambling software industry
On the same note, Fintech has a crucial role in the gambling industry, especially in boosting security features. In the online gaming environment where vast amounts of money are transacted, and people share private information, it is crucial to have measures to secure clients as well as service providers.
Advanced Encryption and Fraud Detection: Fintech has played a significant role in introducing enhanced methods of encryption to gambling platforms to make transactions as secure as possible. Encryption ensures that data in transit is secure and cannot be tampered with in any way, thus making it difficult for hackers to get through. Also, fintech solutions typically come with features that employ artificial intelligence and machine learning to detect and prevent fraud in real time. This ensures that the operators can safeguard their platforms and the players from any form of risk.
Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance: This is an essential concern for gambling operators, especially in regions with strong anti-money laundering laws. Fintech solutions help in the KYC processes that involve identifying players and preventing AML practices. This not only speeds up player onboarding but also minimizes the chance of the operators being penalized by regulators.
Secure Payment Gateways: Fintech also helps gambling platforms become more secure by integrating secure payment gateways. These gateways perform the intermediary role between the player and the operator, facilitating the movement of funds while ensuring the information is securely stored. Through the integration of the fintech payment gateways, gambling sites can, therefore, provide their clients with multiple payment options while at the same time guaranteeing the safety of the transactions.
3. Improving User Experience
As competition is quite high in the sphere of online gambling, customer experience is one of the major factors that influence traffic and engagement. The advancement in the Fintech industry has significantly transformed clients’ experiences by increasing the number of payment methods, speeding up the transaction process, and increasing accessibility.
Omnichannel Payment Solutions: This is because gamers are not only restricted to desktops but also have access to mobile phones and tablets, making it easier for fintech to create omnichannel payment solutions. It enables players to deposit, place bets, and withdraw winnings easily, irrespective of the device they use, giving the players a uniform experience.
Personalized Financial Management: Some of the standard features of gambling software developed by fintech companies include the management of players’ funds. For instance, some platforms provide features that include individual spending restrictions, history of transactions, and budgeting facilities that assist the players in regulating their gambling activities. These tools are more useful when it comes to the prevention of problem gambling and to make sure that players do not exceed the amount they have set for themselves.
Global Accessibility: The integration of fintech solutions has helped to increase the accessibility of online gambling websites by accepting players from all over the world. Players from around the globe can deposit using their most convenient payment methods, including e-wallets, cryptocurrencies, or direct bank transfers. It has also led to expanding the operators’ markets as they can provide services to a broader audience.
4. Challenges and Opportunities: Future Development of Fintech and Gambling Industry
While integrating fintech and an online gambling software provider brings several opportunities, it also comes with risks that operators must address to remain relevant in the current and future markets.
Regulatory Compliance: With advancements in payment systems, fintech companies have introduced new methods and technologies into the market, which has called for constant changes in the frameworks put in place by regulatory bodies to check on the risks associated with these innovations. Gambling operators are responsible for monitoring these changes and ensuring they have not violated any rules and regulations, such as data protection, AML, and payment processing rules.
Adapting to New Technologies: Fintech is progressing at a very rapid rate, and this means that gambling operators have no choice but to keep on adapting to new technologies. For example, DeFi and NFTs can be considered promising trends and threats for the gambling sector. Firms that integrate such technologies in their operations will be in a better position than those that take longer to do so.
Balancing Security with User Experience: Security is a big concern, but it should not be at the cost of usability so that the user’s experience is not compromised. For instance, complicated authentication procedures may deter players and cause them to quit. It is up to the operators to strike the right balance between security and convenience, and this can only be done if they embrace the use of fintech solutions.
Conclusion
Fintech, along with gambling software, is thus paving the way for new advancements in the online gaming industry. These solutions are helpful for gambling operators as they have made transactions faster, more secure, and more convenient, thereby helping them compete with other operators in the market. It can be concluded that as the industry develops further, fintech technologies will be of higher importance for the further development of online gambling.
For players, it certainly translates to an improved, safer, easier, and more tailored experience. It opens up possibilities for operators to enter new markets, draw more customers, and be on the right side of regulations. With the two industries of fintech and gambling software moving closer together, the industry is ready for the future in which technology improves the gaming experience and changes how players approach online gambling sites.
Do you ever wonder how Sugbo.ph started? As we celebrate a decade of success, let’s take a journey back in time to uncover the origins of this digital magazine’s rise to fame across the province.
It all started with our founder, Ram Mancelita, and a simple idea. What began as a casual travel blog shared among him and his college friends, driven by their shared passion for adventure, soon blossomed into something much bigger. And because of this passionate talent they possess, Sugbo.ph was created; to help Sugboanons expand their travels and grow their businesses.
In its early days, Sugbo.ph was once from a modest office on the 2nd floor of the Eastern Shipping Lines Building, M.J. Cuenco Ave., Brgy. San Roque, Cebu City. But everything changed once the company experienced rapid growth, its original office could no longer meet their expanding needs, prompting a move to their current location at 3F-05 One Montage Tower, Archbishop Reyes Ave., Brgy. Kamputhaw, Cebu City. More space, a nicer office or a better location would make everything easier in improving the workforce.
It wasn’t just Ram who runs Sugbo.ph, it takes a dedicated team to build a successful company, and together they’ve made Sugbo.ph what it is today. Through their determined efforts to promote tourism and striving hard to be the most effective local influencer with a good purpose, Sugbo.ph grew into the thriving digital platform you know today—a leading magazine that highlights beloved tourist spots and proudly showcasing Cebu as one of the most must-visit destinations in the world.
ACHIEVEMENTS
Over the following years, Sugbo.ph was greatly met with numerous awards and achievements, appreciated for all their hard work to achieve successful results.
Sugbo.ph received a Plaque of Recognition from Healthy Pilipinas for their support of the DOH-CVCHD Health Promotion and Education initiatives, playing a vital role in promoting the Healthy Pilipinas campaign.
According to Alexa.com’s website rankings, Sugbo.ph earned the title of the #1 Cebu-focused blog with the highest reader traffic and visitor engagement.
At the Best Cebu Blogs Awards, Sugbo.ph was awarded as the Best Cebu Events/Entertainment Blog and named a Top Influencer.
Sugbo.ph was honored with the Social Media Advocacy of the Year award at the Globe Media Excellence Awards.
On November 18, 2022, Sugbo.ph was honored with a Plaque of Appreciation for their generous media partnership in the Cebu Business Month 2022, contributing to the success of CBM 2022: GO Cebu!
On April 12, 2024, Senior Manager Hannah Mae Abelgas was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by The Freeman Newspaper for her insightful participation as a panelist in the inaugural The Freeman Business Forum with the theme “Trends That Shape Cebu’s Tourism Landscape.”
On April 27, 2024, Sugbo.ph was awarded Best Cebu Digital Magazine at the 42nd People’s Choice Excellence Awards, held at City of Dreams Manila. Founder Ram Mancelita and Senior Manager Hannah Mae Abelgas accepted the award, expressing their gratitude and commitment to continuing the platform’s legacy.
[Center Left] Hannah Mae Abelgas, Sugbo Senior Manager; [Center Right] Ram Mancelita, Sugbo CEO
“I’m humbled by the extraordinary success that Sugbo.ph has achieved over the years. Through the team’s dedication to showcasing Cebu’s finest, Sugbo.ph has become a transformative force, inspiring and empowering our community. This is just the beginning of our remarkable journey in helping elevate the local scene to the world.
Ram Mancelita, Founder
HOW’S IT GOING
The progress of Sugbo.ph digital magazine has been quite promising. We are currently focusing on enhancing our content offerings and increasing audience engagement, as well as looking forward to more upcoming projects and strategic collaborations. But, one thing is for sure, Sugbo.ph will continue to be the platform made by Sugboanons and for the Sugboanons!
In an age dominated by digital marketing, the charm and effectiveness of traditional media still hold a significant place, especially for local businesses. One impactful tool that often gets overlooked is the print flyer. These colorful, engaging pieces of paper can convey a wealth of information and draw potential customers to your door. Let’s explore how leveraging print marketing can transform your local marketing strategy.
Capturing Attention in a Visual World
In a world where our eyes are glued to screens, print materials offer a refreshing change. Their tactile nature allows people to engage with your brand in a physical way. With vibrant colors and compelling designs, a well-crafted flyer can catch the eye of passersby and communicate your message quickly and effectively. Unlike digital ads that may be overlooked or ignored, a flyer can invite curiosity and prompt a closer look.
Targeted Distribution for Maximum Impact
One of the greatest advantages of print marketing is the ability to distribute materials strategically. Whether you choose to hand them out at local events, include them in community newsletters, or place them in local businesses, targeted distribution can help you reach your desired audience. For instance, if you own a fitness studio, distributing flyers at local health fairs or gyms can directly connect you with individuals interested in your services.
Showcasing Your Unique Offerings
Printing flyersprovide an excellent platform to showcase your unique offerings. You can highlight special promotions, new products, or upcoming events in a visually appealing format. Using eye-catching graphics and concise, persuasive text can create an emotional connection with your audience, encouraging them to take action—whether that’s visiting your store, attending an event, or checking out your website.
Building Brand Awareness and Trust
Consistency in branding is crucial for any business, and print materials can help reinforce your brand identity. By using your brand colors, logos, and imagery, flyers can create a cohesive visual message that strengthens brand recognition. Furthermore, having a physical representation of your business can build trust with potential customers. A well-designed flyer signals professionalism and commitment, making people more likely to engage with your business.
Cost-Effective Marketing Solution
For small businesses or startups with limited marketing budgets, print marketing can be a cost-effective solution. Designing and printing flyers can be done on a relatively small budget, yet they can yield substantial returns when distributed effectively. With the right strategy, the investment can lead to increased foot traffic and sales.
The Final Touch
Incorporating print materials into your marketing strategy can elevate your business in ways that digital marketing alone may not achieve. By engaging customers physically, targeting your distribution, showcasing your offerings, and reinforcing your brand, you create a memorable experience that can drive action. Embracing traditional print marketing alongside digital efforts can lead to greater visibility and success in your local community.
Cebu! Get ready for a musical experience like no other! BIGWIN29 is excited to bring you FUSION: THE PHILIPPINE MUSIC FESTIVAL on October 5, 2024, live at City Di Mare. This spectacular event promises a celebration filled with exceptional performances, high-energy beats, and surprises that will leave you wanting more.
Headlined by some of the biggest stars in OPM
Prepare to be enchanted by heartfelt anthems from December Avenue and get all the feels while vibing to Zack Tabudlo’s greatest hits. Rising star Maki and P-Pop sensation Kaia will bring the heat on the stage and keep the crowds on their feet with their dynamic music too!
Adding a local touch to the festival, Cebu’s very own Karaoke World Championships (KWC) Philippine Winner, Francis Alinsonorin, will take the stage, together Cebu finalists Jovie Loon and Nica Jañola.
Cebu’s finest DJs, DJ Victor Jao, DJ Matt, and DJ Via Chan will light up the night with their beats – turning City Di Mare into a dance floor. The energy and beats of their sets is expected keep the vibe kicking!
Special appearance of El Presidente, Nadine Lustre
To top off the evening, BIGWIN29’s muse, Nadine Lustre, will captivate the audience as she graces the evening. BIGWIN29 will prepare a grand production number that promises to be the festival’s crowning highlight.
And that’s not all! BIGWIN29 will be giving away tons of prizes and giveaways, ensuring that every attendee has a chance to go home a winner.
FUSION is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of music, culture, and community crafted especially for Cebuanos. With a stellar lineup and unforgettable experiences, BIGWIN29 invites everyone to come together and play as one.
The New Channel or TNC, an alternative new media platform supports this event as its flagship project this year called Karaoke World Championships (KWC) Philippines.
There’s a common frustration in Cebu: the lack of a quick, unified emergency hotline. Every emergency hotline in Cebu City has individual cellphone and telephone numbers for each police station and hospital around the city. Instead of speed dialing one simple number, residents have had to memorize them all. In an emergency, that’s a major hassle—every second counts, and there’s no time to waste fumbling for the right number.
Photo from Canva
Well, good news! Cebu City announced that 911 Emergency Hotline is now ACTIVATED. Any emergency is accepted. You no longer need to dial a long 11-digit number—just press 9-1-1, easy to remember and available for both cellphones and landlines.
Photo from Canva
No load? No problem! You can still make the call, because emergencies shouldn’t wait for a trip to the store aron magpaload.
Do you have an emergency here in Cebu? Call 911 now!
Note: Prank calling 911 is illegal. You will face serious charges and the police would have to place you under arrest!
Consider yourself warned, Sugboanon. If you fail to follow this law, guess who’ll be laughing. Hint: it won’t be you.
Laag ta na!Asa ta kita?Dia na ko, ma’am. Asa ka dapit?
Photo from Ayala Center Cebu’s Official Facebook Page
These are the question we often ask a lot when looking for the perfect meet-up spots. Whether you’re planning to finally meet your online date face-to-face, or gathering with friends for an outing, or your Shopee delivery driver has arrived, but can’t seem to find where your address is, so you give him an easier landmark.
We asked our fellow Sugboanons for their top recommendations on the best meet-up spots here in Cebu. The responses varied—some tagged their friends, others responded with dark humor, but most provided us with some great suggestions.
Here are the top five meet-up spots in Cebu, according to our Sugboanons:
SKYWALK
Imagine a room-with-a-view, but instead of a room, it’s an open, elevated view of the city. Skywalks are perfect for this. One person stands on the higher level, getting a bird’s-eye view of where their partner could be. The partner below raises their hand, making it easier to spot each other.
If you’re looking for a quick way to find each other, a skywalk is the ideal choice. Cebu City has plenty of them! Just agree on which one to meet at, and you’re good to go.
AYALA TERRACES
Photo from Ayala Center Cebu’s Official Facebook Page
Located at Ayala Center Cebu, but the most specific meet-up area is the Ayala Terraces where the garden of aesthetic plants are, and an old acacia tree where you can sit and talk. The vibrant colors of flowers, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes provide a visually appealing backdrop for your meeting. This beauty can enhance the overall experience and create memorable moments.
Photo from Ayala Center Cebu’s Official Facebook Page
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: The Terraces, Ayala Center, Cebu City, Cebu
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin the exact location above as your destination.
By Commute: From SM City Cebu, ride a 04L jeepney and instruct the driver to drop off at The Terrace of Ayala Center Cebu.
7 ELEVEN
Photo from 7Eleven Philippines
It’s only a meet-up—not a serious date or anything—so any nearby 7/11 branch is an ideal spot. Picture this: you and your meet-up partner are deep in conversation, and before you know it, time flies. You might start feeling hungry, but luckily, there’s a store right nearby where you can grab snacks. If you’re meeting up with your friends here, those snacks can be perfect for your outing. Packing is everything. Plus, if your Shopee delivery driver needs a landmark, he’ll know exactly which 7/11 you’re referring to since it’s the closest one around.
FUENTE PLAZA
Photo contributed by Wendell Waffer
The Fuente Plazas is typically centrally located and easily accessible, making it convenient for people coming from different directions. With plenty of open space, the plaza allows you easy movement and offers various areas to sit and chat, whether on benches, grassy patches, or near the fountain. You need fresh air to breathe, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than surrounded by trees and greenery.
Photo by Rosever Banaay
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Fuente Osmena Circle, Don Mariano Cui St, Cebu City.
By Commute: You can ride any jeep that goes to Fuente Osmena Circle ( 03B, 04B, 04D, 04H, 06B, 06C, 06D, 06F, 06H, 07B, 07D, 07E, 12L, 14D,17B, 17D).
By Car: Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Larsian Sa Fuente.”
MAGELLAN’S CROSS
Photo by April Belga
Who knows? Your meet-up partner could be very religious. A religious monument like this could make a perfect meet-up spot due to their cultural significance. This iconic landmark is easy to locate, providing a recognizable gathering point for friends or family.
Photo by @mfg1691 via Instagram
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: P. Burgos St., Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By Walking: From the 1730 Jesuit House, head down the same street towards the Colon Obelisk. Continue walking straight until you reach P. Burgos Street. As you walk, you’ll pass the University of Southern Philippines Foundation. Keep going until you arrive at the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño. You can either enter the church to pass through and exit towards the Magellan’s Cross or simply go around the church, as the Cross is located just behind and outside the building.
These are the answers you Sugboanons suggested. Are you ready to meet your dates? Pick one place suggested above and go. Don’t let your future “forever” keep on waiting!
One of the milestones you may be looking forward to, especially as a young adult or first-time earner, is getting your first credit card. If used responsibly, your card can be a helpful means to spread out the cost of big-ticket purchases through its installment plans, and it can also make purchases more convenient for you since you won’t have to worry about always bringing cash wherever you are in the Philippines.
Photo from Canva
With a card like the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by Maya, you can even obtain superb rewards like a 5% cashback on purchases from Landers Superstore, 2% cashback on your bills at dining establishments, and 1% cashback on other qualified transactions. A card like this one should be your go-to when spending on groceries and other essentials.
But before you start filling out that credit card application Philippines form, it’s important for you to do your research and shop around first to see which credit card possesses the best qualities and features for your needs. That being said, to get the most out of your very first credit card, here are some features that should be included on it:
1) No Annual Fee
As the term suggests, an annual fee is a yearly payment you make for being able to use your credit card. Annual fees vary depending on the type of card you have. For instance, credit cards that offer more lucrative rewards and benefits often have a higher annual fee compared to a regular credit card. Even though it’s only a once-a-year payment, it’s still an additional cost that you’d have to make room for on top of your other expenses.
To worry less about a cost like this one, look for a credit card with a no annual fees for life (NAFFL) offer. Some credit card providers offer this right off the bat, while some may attach certain conditions that you need to fulfill first to get that NAFFL feature. An example condition would be having to spend a certain amount 60 days after activating your card.
2) A Generous Rewards Program
When it comes to credit cards, a top feature you should always look for is how extensive its rewards program is. Some cards will allow you to earn points through each purchase to eventually get rewards such as vouchers, while others can give you cashback for making purchases in particular spending categories such as dining or online shopping. There are also cards that let you convert your points to miles, which will allow you to enjoy free flights and other travel discounts.
Make sure you choose a card with a rewards program that’s relevant to your spending habits and lifestyle. For example, if you’re the type who likes to spend on bulk deals for imported goods, Maya’s Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card would be a great fit for you. It’s also a breeze to review the rewards you’ve earned with the card, as you don’t have to wait for your billing statement at the end of the month just to count how many rewards you have and use them as soon as you’re able.
3) Card Security Safeguards
Security is a common concern among applicants getting their first credit cards. After all, while it may be convenient to use your credit card for online purchases and the like, you may also be worried about falling victim to cyber criminals who could steal your information and use your card to make fraudulent transactions.
You’ll want a credit card that comes with security features that you can truly rely on. Some examples include the ability to issue one-time passwords (OTPs), to block the card immediately if you suspect that a fraudulent purchase was made, and to send SMS alerts that notify you if your card has been used in any type of transaction.
The Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by Maya takes this a step further with a dynamic CVV that changes every 24 hours or whenever the opening screen is accessed again after being closed. It’s also easy to control your spending limits and review different types of transactions and, most importantly, block the card if it’s suspected of fraud.
4) Low Interest Rates
Some cards offer low or even zero interest rates within a specific period, allowing you to make big purchases without having to pay for them upfront. If you’re interested in using your credit card primarily for big purchases such as appliances, bulk items, or flights, then look for cards that have installment plans with low or zero interest.
Note that some credit cards offer this only for partner merchants, so check as well if the businesses you frequently purchase from are partnered with any credit card provider. These can be a big factor in your choice of card.
Do keep in mind that if you let your balance go unpaid for months, then you’d still be racking up those interest charges despite the low interest. Strive to stay on top of your credit card bills to ensure you won’t have to worry about paying more down the line.
5) No Difficulty Monitoring Transactions
A system for easily monitoring your transactions is another must-have feature for any credit card, as it allows you to review your transactions right away—either to better plan out your budget or simply to verify that no fraudulent purchases were made with your card.
While you’ll always receive a monthly statement with a detailed list of your expenses during that billing period, having the option to monitor your transactions in real time through an app or online portal makes this process all the more convenient. Moreover, should there really be any unauthorized transactions in your history, then you can quickly act and notify your credit card provider rather than having to wait for your next billing statement to come.
Photo from Canva
With so many options available, it may be easy to experience choice fatigue when choosing a first credit card. However, if you’re clear on what features and benefits you’ll want to get out of it, it will be easier to narrow down your choices and end up with a card that you’ll genuinely enjoy using.
“To be honest, love teams are a phenomenon only created in the Philippines, only existing in the Philippines. And to box a woman like that is so dangerous actually for their mental health and also for their growth, not just as a professional but as an individual.” –Liza Soberano
It’s been nearly a year since the breakup of the popular Kathniel loveteam, three years since Jadine, and rumors suggest LizQuen quietly split two years ago. These breakups have sent shockwaves across the Philippines, with fans mourning like they’ve lost a close relative and pointing fingers in search of blame. From the perspective of the celebrities, what fans see is a devastating heartbreak, they see it as a newfound freedom.
TOXIC FANDOM
Fans have been head over heels by the onscreen chemistry of their favorite loveteams, believing in the perfect romantic partnerships they see in movies. Makes them forget that it’s all fictional and they’re just actors pretending to be boyfriend and girlfriend. Fans really couldn’t see it, could they? The whole point of acting is to be in character, meaning not being themselves, and that includes love; it’s what they do for a living. However, the public’s desire for these pairs to be a couple off-screen puts immense pressure on them, creating a toxic environment where personal choice becomes secondary to fan expectations.
While some love teams might have developed feelings for each other to pair up in reality, who knows what happens off-screen? Possibilities are they are truly in love with each other. What if they wanted to end the relationship a long time ago but didn’t go with it because they didn’t want to let the fans down? Or it turns out they never had any feelings for each other but only went into the relationship for the sake of the media. This obsession with maintaining these loveteam pairings is like a prison, keeping actors from experiencing real-life relationships on their own terms.
We are supposed to explore another relationship after the other so that we can find which one is truly who we are meant to be with, and we are taking away that experience from these actors. Celebrities are as ordinary as non-celebrities. They deserve the right to choose who they can and can’t date without any constraints of public opinion.
For those loveteams who have gone their separate ways, you’re free now, date whoever you want, we won’t judge. Love is not a career—it’s a choice your heart desires.
“Love is too beautiful to be hidden in the closet”
Photo from Pexels
Thailand has now officially legalized same-sex marriage starting this January 2025, making the first Southeast Asian country to pass this groundbreaking legislation
Known for its progressive stance on LGBT rights, Thailand has long been considered as one of the most gay-friendly countries in Asia, granting same-sex couples many of the same perfunctory rights as heterosexual couples. As friendly as they are, the country’s film industry grew wide popularity for making a variety of LGBT representations in their films, drawing kilig moments to Asian viewers. The country’s openness to queer narratives has been evident since the mid-90s.
Same-sex marriage has come to represent societal acceptance and inclusion of the queer community. In Thailand, the journey toward this milestone began with the Civil Partnership Bill, introduced in 2019. Despite multiple delays, including a major setback in February 2022, the bill was a critical first step in securing LGBT rights.
Now times have changed. The wait is over for Thailand’s queer community. King Maja Vajiralongkorn has signed a landmark marriage equality bill into law, and endorsed it last Tuesday, September 24th. The legislation is set to take full effect for 120 days, which is expected on January 23, 2025, allowing same-sex couples to register their marriages at last.
“Congratulations on everyone’s love,” Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra posted on X with a hashtag #LoveWins.
Photo by Creative Space Studio AHS | Coordination by Carlo Abaquita
So mga Sugboanons, after hearing this good news for Thailand, surely an important question has dawned on us Filipinos: should the Philippines follow Thailand’s steps? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
