As we celebrate Culinary Month, it’s a great opportunity to explore the Cebu tops culinary schools that provide exceptional training for future chefs. Cebu is known not just for its stunning views and history but also for its food culture.
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If you’re passionate about cooking and want to turn that passion into a career, here are some of the top culinary schools in Cebu for you to choose from:
American International Culinary & Hospitality Institute, Inc (AICHI)
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Located at The Sky Plaza Building, Cebu IT Park in Apas Cebu City. AICHI is a top choice for those pursuing careers in culinary arts and hospitality management. The school offers a variety of programs that combine hands-on cooking experience with business management training.
MIHCA Cebu
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The Magsaysay Center 2nd Floor, Magsaysay Avenue, Cebu City. MIHCA Cebu is renowned for its emphasis on practical training. The school’s programs cover essential cooking techniques, kitchen management and customer service providing students with real-world experience through internships.
International School for Culinary Arts and Hotel Management Cebu Inc. (ISCAHM Cebu)
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ISCAHM Cebu is located at Unit 603, 6th Floor, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City. This school offers comprehensive programs in culinary arts and hotel management, focusing on both cooking skills and hospitality training. The curriculum includes a mix of classroom instruction and practical kitchen work, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for various roles in the culinary and hospitality sectors.
MOST Institute Culinary School Cebu
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MOST Institute, also known as the Management and Organizational Science & Technology Institute, can be found on 2nd Floor, 5th Avenue Building, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City. The institute provides culinary programs that emphasize cooking and management skills. The hands-on curriculum prepares students to handle kitchen operations and run successful restaurants, making it an excellent choice for those interested in executive chef or restaurant owner roles.
International Culinary Arts Academy Cebu (ICAAC)
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The International Culinary Arts Academy Cebu (ICAAC) is located at Don Gervacio Quijada Street, Guadalupe 6000 Cebu City. ICAAC offers top-tier education in culinary disciplines, including baking and pastry, international cuisine, and kitchen management. With a focus on creativity and innovation, ICAAC provides students with both practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
It is the perfect time to consider these prominent institutions in Cebu. Each of these schools offers unique programs and resources to help you start a successful career in the culinary world. Cook for us aspiring chefs!!
Sugboanons, Wingman Unlimited Chicken just landed a new branch at the very heart of Talamban!
The tasty and affordable unli-chicken restaurant wrapped up their soft launching event with a bang as the month of July ended, complete with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Wingman CEO, Mr. Ram Mancelita, and a store blessing ceremony. It was a celebration worthy of their latest milestone.
Unli-Chicken for Only Php 299!
Now, you can feast on delicious unlimited chicken wings + fries + rice for as low as Php 299.00 per person! Whether it’s a family gathering, catching up with your BFFs, or even for just a quick lunch break with your classmates, Wingman is the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings!
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Promo rate: ₱299 per head, minimum of 2 persons
Kids below 4ft: ₱199 per head
Senior Citizens & PWDs: ₱239 per head
Solo diners: ₱399
FLAVORS
Garlic Parmesan
Honey Garlic
Buffalo (Spicy)
Teriyaki
Classic with Gravy
OTHER INFORMATION
Opening Hours: 11AM to 10PM daily (Last entry at 9PM)
Talamban Branch Location: 3F Talamban Times Square, Cebu City
By Commute: You may take either the 13C or 62B jeepney routes heading to Talamban and inform the driver that you’ll be dropping off at the Talamban Times Square. Upon arrival, head to the 3rd floor where you can find the new Wingman Unlimited Chicken restaurant.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Talamban Times Square” as your destination.
We will be the men who can’t be moved as we line for “The Script” tickets soon.
Photo from The Script
Start to save your money now because the Irish rock band, The Script, is returning to Manila this 2025. They will perform at the Araneta Coliseum on February 11, 2025 as part of their Satellites World Tour.
Photo from The Script
The Script visited Manila last September 2022 for their “Greatest Hits Tour,” and everyone loved their performance, so it’s a sure ball that this upcoming show will be even more exciting! But, hold your horses because tickets are yet to be disclosed on August 10, 2024 via Ticketnet by Wilbros Live.
Photo from The Script
So, to get your rock veins pumping, here are the list of “The Script” classics for you to binge on:
Breakeven – This song is about the pain of a breakup.It talks about how hard it is when a relationship ends and how it feels like you’re trying to move on but still hurting.
The Man Who Can’t Be Moved – This song tells the story of a man who stays at a street corner, hoping his lost love will come back.Hes waiting there because it’s where they used to meet and he hopes she will find him there.
For the First Time – All about feeling happy and excited about starting something new in life. It’s a positive , uplifting song about fresh starts and new experiences.
Hall of Fame (feat. will.i.am) – This track is about working hard to achieve your dreams and making a big impact on the world.It encourages people to believe in themselves and reach for greatness.
Nothing – This song expresses feelings of emptiness and searching for something meaningful.Its about feeling like something is missing in your life and wanting to find that missing piece.
Rain – this song is about going through tough times and finding comfort.It uses rain as a metaphor for the struggles in life and it talks about finding peace and hope even when things are hard.
Photo from The Script
Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more updates on ticket sales, Sugboanons, and don’t miss your chance to once again see The Script live in Manila!
For many individuals, freelancing is an attractive arrangement that offers flexibility on diverse projects, control over their schedule, and the ability to choose clients and assignments. This level of freedom and independence has thus made freelancing a popular line of work for many professionals across various industries. However, with the growing popularity of this career path comes increased competition.
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Fortunately, you can stand out in this highly competitive market by working on improving your credibility. When you’re seen by potential clients as reliable, professional, and trustworthy, you are more likely to get hired, paid higher rates, and get referred to others. Moreover, established credibility can help you enjoy more consistent work and thus more stable earnings. Simply put, if you want a sustainable career as a freelancer, you must build and enhance your character and reputation.
From optimizing client payments through an online payment link to highlighting your skills and expertise in your online portfolio, explore these simple yet effective strategies to improve your credibility as a freelancer and ensure business success.
1. Ask for Reasonable Rates
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Setting the right rates is crucial for both attracting clients and ensuring you’re fairly compensated. It will show that you understand your market value and are confident in your skills, so make sure to set reasonable prices for every project.
If you’re uncertain about what constitutes a fair rate, research industry standards. You can also gain insights into current market rates from industry-specific forums. Also, when setting your rates, remember to factor in your experience, expertise, and the complexity of the work. If you’re just starting out in the industry, you might charge slightly lower prices to build your portfolio—but try not to go too low compared to the industry standards. As you gain more experience, your rates should also reflect your growing expertise.
2. Prepare a Contract for Every Project
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Another way you can improve your credibility is to provide a contract for every project, no matter how small. It protects you and your client by ensuring that both you and the client are on the same page, as well as demonstrating your commitment. A contract also sets a professional tone and indicates that you are organized and reliable.
When drafting a contract, make sure it has all the key elements, including the scope of work, deadlines, payment terms, and any other relevant details. Additionally, clearly define the deliverables, timelines, and milestones to avoid any misunderstandings.
3. Optimize Billing and Payment
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Efficient billing and payment processes are also key to maintaining a professional image. Consider using invoicing software to create professional invoices, track payments, and manage your finances efficiently. Additionally, use reliable payment solutions that offer security and convenience for both you and your clients.
For instance, fintech company Maya offers an online payment link product that lets you bill and accept card and wallet payments with ease. This works by assigning you a unique URL that you can then send to your clients via any messaging app. Once payment has been made, you’ll be notified through email or the app.
4. Create a Website or Online Portfolio
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If you want to enhance your credibility as a freelancer, make sure you have a professional website or online portfolio. This acts as a digital business card that showcases your skills, experience, and past work.
In terms of the content of your website, include a detailed portfolio of projects and case studies. Remember to highlight your best work and provide context to show the impact of your contributions. Additionally, keep your portfolio updated with your latest work. This demonstrates that you are active and engaged in your field, which further boosts your credibility and could attract potential clients.
As an additional tip, keep your website well-organized and visually appealing. Upload high-quality images and write clear, concise descriptions to highlight your best work. Finally, ensure your website is easy to navigate so it’s easier for potential clients to view your work on any platform.
5. Ask for Testimonials from Past Clients
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Testimonials are a powerful tool that can significantly enhance your credibility in the freelancing world. Particularly, positive feedback from past clients serves as social proof, showing that you have successfully delivered value to others.
When requesting reviews, don’t hesitate to ask satisfied clients. However, be mindful of the timing. Ideally, ask for a testimonial soon after successful project completion when the client’s positive experience is fresh. It’s also a good idea to make the process easy for them by providing a simple format or specific questions, so they can get back to you promptly. Once you have your testimonials, display them prominently on your website and other relevant platforms. This way, potential clients can easily access them and get an idea of your work and professionalism.
Improving your credibility as a freelancer is a journey that requires consistency, professionalism, and a strategic approach. Consider adopting these practices to enhance your professional reputation. These simple yet effective strategies can help you gain new clients, earn more, and ensure long-term success in your freelancing career.
Bisaya/Cebuano/Visayan is a dialect spoken as their mother tongue by more Filipinos in the country than the actual national language, more particularly in Visayas and Mindanao.
And though this still holds true, it has quite evolved during the years that some of the old words spoken are slowly being forgotten or entirely lost. A great reason for it is it may have been replaced by new words or a slang by the present generation.
As the world change so does the language spoken, may it be new words or mixed words. Now, there are just a few who knows or remembers these old words and not surprisingly most of them are the old folks.
Come take a scan on our list and see if you can recognize them. Some of them you might have encountered reading or on the news, some you may have heard from your parents or grandparents.
Photo from ieltscanadatest.com website
1. Tukma (adjective)
It is an adjective used for ideas, images, representations and expressions. It is characterized by the perfect conformity to fact or truth and I remember always hearing this on the local news.
Example: Sa tukmang panahon, maka uyab ra lage ka.
2. Talidhay (noun)
It is a noun that is described as a prolonged laughter. Like that infectious seemingly unending laughter from that one friend in every group.
Example: Grabe ug talidhay kay nakadaog sa Lotto.
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3. Tagubtob (noun)
It is characterized by resonance or resonating. It’s likened to a sound or energy that is deep and full and can be felt by the other person. You might have heard this as a lyric to a Bisaya song.
Example: Ang tagubtob sa iyang dughan.
4. Kulbahinam (adjective)
It is an adjective describing a surge of emotion, or of excitement. It’s english synonyms are sensational and thrilling. I don’t know if there’s a connection, but it reminds me of the common Cebuano word “kulba” meaning fear or nervousness which is also some kind of surge of emotion.
Example: Kulbahinam kaayo ang duwa bai.
5. Alimyon (noun)
It is a pleasant sweet olfactory property. It means a pleasant smell in layman’s term. “Humot” may have replaced it or it’s a different word on another level if that makes sense.
Example: Ang buwak nangalimyon sa ka humot.
Photo from unsplash.com by Ruslan Zh
6. Kasikas (noun)
It is characterized as a slight noise, like the noise of silk clothing or leaves blowing in the wind. You may have heard this word in radio dramas way back when it was the hype of entertainment in provinces.
Example: Hala may kasikas man sa gawas, ako daw gawson.
7. Kahidlaw (noun)
It is a feeling of deep longing. This longing may refer to romantic feelings or a simple craving. This might also be can be heard in a song or a Balak Bisaya.
Example: Ge hidlaw najud ko ug manga.
8. Huyuhoy (noun)
It is a cooling breeze from the sea. This one is being used more commonly than the others. You can hear them from older folks and even some younger ones. Maybe because there’s still no Cebuano word that can replace it.
Example: Kalami sa huyuhoy diri sa baybay.
9. Sagmuyo (verb)
It is an action word that means being depressed or deject and cast down. Being downhearted caused by loneliness or other things that can cause the lowering of your spirit. This is definitely being replaced by “naguol” or its English terms but sagmuyo feels like a little deeper than naguol.
Example: Sus na sagmuyo jud ko kay na disgrasya akong kauban.
10. Hamtong (adjective)
It is an adjective which means an adult. A period of time in your life after believed to be your full development or state of maturity.
Example: Si Marlon kay usa na ka hamtong nga ulitaw.
To be able to successfully write this article, I had to consult with my mother on these words and how to use them. I was a bit shocked really as she is familiar with all of them, kudos to my mom. Maybe there is still hope to these deep and beautiful old words, they might not be forgotten entirely if we appreciate them more.
Nangita mog way entrance fee nga white sand beach? Ari na sa Maravilla Beach Resort!
Maravilla in Cebu, Philippines is a special place that not many people know about. It is known for its beautiful beaches and peaceful atmosphere, making it perfect for relaxing getaway with friends and family
Maravilla has calm beaches with softer white sand and clear blue waters. You can relax on the beach, watch stunning sunsets and take peaceful walks along the shore. The people in Maravilla are very welcoming. You can experience local Filipino culture and try delicious local food. The community is eager to share their traditions and stories with visitors.
THINGS TO DO
There are plenty of activities in Maravilla for nature lovers
You can snorkel in the colorful coral reefs,
Go on boat tours to explore nearby islands,
Hike through the lush forests to discover hidden waterfalls and amazing views
Maravilla cares about preserving its natural beauty. They work hard to keep the beaches and forests clean and support efforts to protect marine life. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of their impact and help keep Maravilla beautiful.
By Bus: Ride a bus from North Bus Terminal going to Tabuelan Public Market and From Tabuelan Public Market, hire a motorcycle, known locally as a habal-habal, to take you to Maravilla Tabuelan.
By V-Hire: Ride a vhire from Ayala Mall Cebu going to Tuburan Public Market and From Tuburan Public Market, hire a motorcycle, known locally as a habal-habal, to take you to Maravilla Tabuelan.
By Car: Use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Maravilla Public Beach” in Tabuelan Cebu. Follow the directions provided by the navigation app until you reach your destination.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or an adventure, Maravilla has something for everyone. Enjoy the peaceful beaches, taste delicious local food, and make unforgettable memories in this hidden paradise in Cebu.
Discover Maravilla, where you can relax, explore nature, and experience the warmth of Filipino hospitality.
If you’re looking for an outfit to make a memorable impression at WORLD TOUR BORN PINK film, why not take inspiration from Blackpink’s iconic styles?
Here are some Blackpink-inspired outfits for your movie screening for your inspiration:
Lisa’s Lillies Street Style
Photo by lalalalisa_m via Instagram
For a standout look, start with a black leather skirt. It’s stylish and shows off your shape. Pair the skirt with a simple tee. You can choose a plain white tee or one with a cool design to keep it fresh and fun. Add a sleek blazer on top. It makes the outfit look more polished and smart. Choose a blazer that fits well but isn’t too tight.
Finish the look with knee-high boots that reach just below your knee. Black boots with a chunky heel work well and make your legs look longer. Add some chunky jewelry to give the outfit extra style. Big necklaces, bold rings, or large hoop earrings will stand out nicely. Choose silver or gold depending on what you like.
Photo by lalalalisa_m via InstagramPhoto by lalalalisa_m via InstagramPhoto by lalalalisa_m via Instagram
Style your hair to match the bold outfit. Loose waves, a neat ponytail, or a chic bun all work well. For makeup, go for dramatic eyeliner or a bold lip to keep the edgy vibe.
The Jennie Posie Style
Photo by @jennierubyjane via Instagram
Wear the jacket with high-waisted shorts or a skirt in the same color. This keeps your outfit looking smooth and neat. Put on thigh-high boots that match the color of your outfit. These boots are trendy and make your legs look longer.
Photo by @jennierubyjane via InstagramPhoto by @jennierubyjane via InstagramPhoto by @jennierubyjane via Instagram
Add some layered necklaces for a touch of elegance. Choose a few different necklaces to make the outfit shine. This look is perfect for a sophisticated and stylish appearance, whether you’re going to an event or just want to look great.
Rosé Fanses Vibe
Photo by @roses_are_rosie via Instagram
For a gentle and romantic look, choose a pastel-colored dress. Look for one with flowy or delicate details to keep it soft and pretty. Pair the dress with ankle boots or strappy sandals, depending on the weather and your preference. Both options add a nice touch to the outfit.
Style your hair in soft waves to complete the look. This adds a dreamy and romantic feel to your appearance.
Photo by @roses_are_rosie via InstagramPhoto by @roses_are_rosie via InstagramPhoto by @roses_are_rosie via Instagram
This outfit is perfect for a charming and elegant look, whether you’re going to a special event or just want to feel effortlessly beautiful.
Jisoo Classic or the It’s me chichi Look
Photo by @sooyaaa_ via Instagram
For a sophisticated style, pick an elegant dress or a fitted jumpsuit. Both options give a classy and polished appearance. Pair it with heeled boots or pumps to add a touch of glamor and make your outfit stand out.
Photo by @sooyaaa_ via InstagramPhoto by @sooyaaa_ via InstagramPhoto by @sooyaaa_ via Instagram
Keep your accessories minimal and refined. Choose simple, elegant pieces to let the outfit’s style shine without distraction. This look is perfect for any event where you want to appear both stylish and graceful.
Photo from @blackpinkofficial via Instagram
No matter which outfit you will wear, if you know how to handle and slay it you can shine! Each look shows a different side of their unique fashion, so you can choose one that matches your personal style. Have fun in the BLACKPINK’s Born Pink World Tour and enjoy the film, Sugboanon BLINKS!
We all have times when we feel down and think badly about ourselves; but the words we use matter a lot to us as they can change how we feel and what we do.
Photo by Ram Mancelita
By not saying these negative things to yourself, you can feel better and be stronger:
Dili ko good enough
Photo by Ken Nacion
Believe in yourself! You have the skills and qualities needed to succeed and be happy, so take time to think about your strengths and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they might seem.
Dili na nako kaya
Photo from Ken Nacion
Try to think positively. Remember that you can learn and grow. Every problem or challenge is a chance to improve and become a better version of you. Yes, it can overwhelm you and sometimes everything seems to hurt, but be a grape and be willing to be turned into wine through a rigorous pressing process.
Failure ko
Photo from Ken Nacion
Understand that failing is a normal part of life and everyone makes mistakes. These help you learn important lessons and become stronger, and soon enough, you’ll be the one who holds the wisdom for younger generations to follow your lead.
Dili nako deserve i-love
Photo from Ken Nacion
Know that everyone, including you, deserves love and care. Avoid being too hard on yourself; Believe that you are worthy of love and affection. It is also important to remember that one will have a hard time finding love if that person has deprived oneself from loving thy own.
Dili nako malipay gyud
Photo by Ken Nacion
Happiness is something you can find in many different ways. Instead of thinking you can’t be happy, look for things that bring you joy and satisfaction. According to Marie Kondo, you should ask yourself, “Does this bring joy?,” and if not, then opt for other options or ways that’ll improve your mood and bring you joy each day. For instance, if your boring old breakfast of eggs no longer satisfies your palate, then go out and find a meal that you’re excited about.
Dili ko maayo parehas sa uban
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Comparing yourself to others is not helpful. Focus on your own unique strengths and achievements. Your path is different from others. Who knows? Someone out there is also looking at you as they see your growth relevant to motivate them in life. So, be your own motivator and comparison.
Nganong dili ko perfect
Photo by Ken Nacion
Perfection is not realistic and can stop you from growing. Embrace your imperfections and see them as chances to learn more about yourself and improve.
Dili nako mausab
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Change is always happening. Accept it as something good in your life. Believe that you can adapt, learn new things, and grow.
Dili ko importante
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Remember that you have value and that you make a positive difference in the lives of others. Your thoughts, actions, and presence are meaningful.
Dili nako ma achieve akong goals
Photo by Reann Gatuteo
Replace doubt with confidence. Break your goals into small, manageable steps. Trust that you can make progress and succeed over time.
Remember, the words you choose to say to yourself shape your reality and influence your actions. Choose words that empower and uplift yourself each day.
Molave Street has now become famous to creatives whether they be local or foreign within Cebu.
You’ve been coming to Molave Street enjoying its hustle and bustle during weekends, but have you ever wondered who is the genius behind Molave Community Marketplace? Well, it was none other than fellow Sugboanon Willow Hoods! But who is he?
WHO IS WILLOW HOODS?
Willow Hoods is a professional barber who is offering his expert services in the streets of Molave. He also has a love for fashion and retail. Furthermore, the man is also a loving husband and a doting father of a 5-year old child.
However, what really prompted him to start reviving Molave street and make it a community?
A FREE SPACE FOR CREATIVES
Creatives have always been confined by societal norms. Most of them have been given little to no support to start and pursue their field of passion and Willow Hoods experienced just that. According to him, way before starting Molave Community Marketplace, he has been doing pop-ups in different places in the country, but that became a struggle for him when he first acted out this notion.
I started with like zero budget and then I have to spend money just to do a pop up in mall. I pay for my air ticket just to do a pop up somewhere in Manila…So, I do my pop ups, while spending my own money and then doing my haircuts for free.
Willow Hoods
That struggle became an inspiration for him to start Molave Community Marketplace. He wanted to give a free space for people to start their passion projects, so that they will not have to go through the things he went through when he just started.
I saw the opportunity to provide space for people, for them to easily execute their projects in a way that they won’t really have a hard time. Like low capitalization, there’s no overhead, and all they have to do is bring in their table, and that’s it.
Willow Hoods
…This is a space for people who want to study their passion project. They get to learn how to set up a booth, they get to learn how to do customer service, customer, like they can experiment,” said Hoods.
In other words, Willow Hoods wanted to provide creatives a haven to explore their passion, while not worrying about high fees from setting up stalls alone. Nevertheless, it is not restricted to ‘art’ alone. Hoods further stated that “So, it doesn’t have any, like category, whether food, artists or creative in general, you can actually just experiment in this space.”
A BEGINNER VILLAGE
When playing MMORPG games, we normally don’t start going to places on the map with high level monsters. Instead, we are set up inside a beginner village to prepare us, amend our mistakes and guide us on the fundamentals of the game and Molave Community is built just like that.
Molave Community Marketplace is a place that aims to shape creatives to walk the road of success. It can become their starting point to step on the stairs of a higher and grander stage. Moreover, as a beginner cradle, Molave Community Marketplace is a place where people can make mistakes!
You are ok to make mistakes here sa Molave. We’re not living with perfection, but like we’re more into little progress.
Willow Hoods
Nevertheless, Willow Hoods encouraged everyone who wants to do what he does to just do it, because “there is no path until you walk it” and you are also helping our economy thrive.
A FASHION STREET?
For those people who have to Molave countless times already, they have already observed the fashion freedom of Molave Community Marketplace. Since most of the people who visit the place are dressed in a truly fabulous way! Nevertheless, Willow Hoods revealed that it was not his original intention for the community to be like that!
I brand Molave in a way that it shapes whether what year or what era it is. Murag mosabay ra sya ba. Walay intention na ‘oh I’m gonna make it a fashion street’. No, it wasn’t forced. It wasn’t like planned. It’s like, it just happened.
Willow Hoods
…All I can say is what you see, the people that come here are true, true to themselves. Like, they dress up, because they dress up like that, like, maybe authentic,” he further added.
He stated that he branded MCM like a person with no attachments and expectations to people. He further revealed that MCM started with a very niche market and targeted Cebuanos who are into the sub-culture. Which might also be the reason that the place became a fashion melting pot.
When you say subculture, those people really dress differently from what you will see normally every day.
Willow Hoods
— Willow Hoods is one of the few people who are truly hell-bent on pursuing their passion no matter the cost, believing that the results will gratify the pain that the losses had inflicted on them. Nevertheless, his story on how he started one of the most successful communities in the Metro will surely be an inspiration to young Cebuanos out there.
I find it ridiculous because they bring me here to Spain because I’m innocent…and then they want me to assume the crime…How can I assume something I didn’t do? I can never admit guilt because I am not guilty.
Paco Larrañaga
Screengrab from “Jacqueline Comes Home”
On the night of July 1997, a gruesome crime will unfold involving the lives of two Cebuana adolescents that will shake the whole nation at its core.
The Disappearance of Chiong Sisters
Screengrab from “Jacqueline Comes Home”
One of the Chiong sisters remains missing up to this day and it has been 27 years already. But how did this all start? According to reports, the Chiong sisters were apparently hanging out in a well-renowned mall here in Cebu, when night came and they decided to take a bus to take them home.
10:30 PM, July 16, 1997, the Chiong sisters were waiting at a bus shed for their ride home. However, seven men were driven by madness and decided to abduct the two sisters. The family who had waited for the sisters to be home at 10:00 PM started to get worried and filed a campaign to find the allegedly missing sisters.
Nevertheless, the police never took the case seriously due to the age of the two, since it was common for people of their age to go missing for several days. Not until two days later when a body was found floating in the deep ravine in Tanawan, Carcar City, Cebu. It was the dead body of Marijoy Chiong.
The Crime and the Suspects
Screengrab from “Jacqueline Comes Home”
According to G.R. Nos. 138874-75, February 03, 2004, the case not only involved kidnapping, but also illegal detention and rape. The college beauty queen Chiong was gang-raped and murdered and thrown into the ravines to rot after the abduction. Her sister was then also gang-raped, but followed a completely different route after; she went missing and was never found again up to this day.
On the other hand, the hunt for the suspects had been quite short due to an investigator involved in the case. Pablo Labra II was not the chief investigator in the case, nevertheless, he was the one tasked to look into it.
Labra II had been under an intense scrutiny from the media and the public to provide a list of the people responsible for the crime that prompted him to look further into police records. Then, 7 suspects emerged under his arduous search.
Francisco Juan Larrañaga, alias Paco; Josman Aznar; Rowen Adlawan alias Wesley; Alberto Caño alias Allan Pahak; Ariel Balansag; and brothers James Andrew Uy alias “MM” and James Anthony Uy alias “Wang-Wang”, were then named the Chiong Seven.
In May 15, 1999, the Regional Trial Court Branch – 7 then ruled the alleged suspects as ‘guilty beyond reasonable doubt’ of the crimes of kidnapping and serious illegal detention. They were then granted to suffer ‘two reclusion perpetua’ plus damages. On February 03, 2004, the Supreme Court reaffirmed the decision of the Regional Trial Court while adding a heavier penalty — death by lethal injection.
The Chiong Sisters Are Actually Alive?
Although it has been found out that one of the sisters was actually dead while the other one was missing, many Filipinos are still skeptical about this fact due to some irregularities in the case.
An online article wrote that the case apparently had many coincidences and inconsistencies. One was Larrañaga’s involvement in the case. According to Rusia, Larrañaga was the crime’s mastermind. However, the day the sisters disappeared he was currently in attendance for his midterm exams.
Moreover, a few friends of Larrañaga testified that he cannot have a quick flight from Manila to Cebu after the exam since they were in a bar until 3 in the morning of the following day. Furthermore, there were no flight records of any Francisco Larrañaga traveling from Manila to Cebu on July 15, 1997.
Further proving this point, images of the Chiong sisters recently surfaced on the internet with a caption that the Chiong sisters are apparently ‘alive’. Social media posts from 2018 to 2020 have revealed that the sisters are apparently alive and well.
— The case of the Chiong sisters has left many Filipinos baffled and skeptical at the same time up to this day. Since the crime was ultimately brutal and inhumane, however, the evidence against the suspects, especially against Larrañaga, were too inconsistent to believe.
But, how about you Sugboanon, what do you think about this? Do you believe that Larrañaga was a victim of injustice or was it justice well-served? Do you also believe that the sisters are actually alive?
