The second automated plate-making machine acquired by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has started operating, as part of the agency’s modernization efforts and fast-tracking of plates distribution.
The new plate-making robot, specifically for producing motorcycle license plates, is the second plate-making machine acquired by the LTO for its own Plate-Making Facility in Quezon City. The first machine is dedicated for the production of motor vehicle plates.
The machine is capable of manufacturing 450 motorcycle plates per hour in an efficient and systematic manner or 3,600 motorcycle plates in an eight-hour shift a day, and 7,200 motorcycle plates a day on a two-shift basis.
The machine, which will be manned by two LTO personnel, can produce a total of 158,400 motorcycle plates a month on a two-shift per day basis.
Transportation Secretary Art Tugade said that the arrival of the motorcycle plate-making machine will address the recurring problems in issuing motorcycle license plates, which occurred due to issues of backlogs in the past.
Meanwhile, LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Edgar Galvante explained that the newest plate-making machine will complement the existing plate-making machines at the LTO Plate-Making Facility to ensure a more efficient and swift motor vehicle and motorcycle plates production.
Established in April 2018, the LTO plate-making facility will expedite the production and distribution of license plates, which was used to be outsourced in the past.
There are more ways to experience and have fun in Cebu this summer.
Floating cottage adventures are fast-rising and sought-after activity among many Cebuanos this summer. It’s one way of enjoying the saltwater while chilling, eating, and drinking above water with family and friends – anytime, you can just jump off and swim away.
Here are six (6) places with floating cottages you can try in Cebu:
1. DAPDAP’S FLOATING COTTAGE (BADIAN)
Photo from RBA 360
Nearby attractions: Kawasan Falls & Canyoneering, Lambug White Beach
Dapdap’s Floating Cottages is located in Badian Bay near Badian Island where a sandy private beach lies near Pescador Island – somewhere along the coastline of Brgy. Bugas. It is a simple yet unique tourist destination that can be found in the northern part of Badian.
Photo from RBA 360
Photo from RBA 360
Photo from RBA 360
RATES:
Entrance fee: P150 per head
Inclusions: Life vest, boat ride from/to mainland and floating cottage
For safety purposes, 5 y/o and below are NOT allowed.
Exact location: Sitio Dapdap, Brgy. Bugas, Badian, Southern Cebu — 3-4 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From the South Bus Terminal, take a bus bound for Badian or Oslob. Inform the driver to drop you off at Sitio Dapdap’s waiting shed near the boundary of Badian and Moalboal. Bus fare is ₱150 (one-way, aircon bus).
2. OWAK FISHERMAN’S FLOATING COTTAGE (Asturias)
Photo from John Carl Dupal-ag
Located in Asturias, the Owak Fisherman’s Association’s newest floating cottage does not only allow you to have a panoramic view of the coastline, but also lets you see the wonders of the underwater.
For only 70 Pesos, you will get the chance to have the best of both worlds – feast your eyes of the beauty of the landscape of Asturias and be amazed by the wonders of the underworld.
Photo from John Carl Dupal-ag
Photo from John Carl Dupal-ag
Photo from John Carl Dupal-ag
Photo from John Carl Dupal-ag
Rates:
Floating cottage: P70 per head, good for 2 hours
Snorkeling: Bring your own snorkeling gears
Kayaking: P350 per hour
Dolphin Watching: P350 per head, good for 3hours (available at 6AM only)
OTHER INFORMATION:
Contact: Owak Fisherman’s Association 0970-234-5473 or 0970-234-5472.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Inside Asturias Beach house in Brgy. Owak, Asturias, Cebu
Take a V-hire from the Ayala terminal going to Tuburan. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Barangay Hall of Brgy. Owak. Fare is ₱130 /head (one-way). From there, ask anyone how to head to the floating cottage.
3. AKEISH BEACH FLOATING COTTAGE (MEDELLIN)
Photo from Vivian Pacaña Masong
Dine and have a good time at a cottage at sea!
Akeish Beach Floating Cottage offers a combined experience of dining and boating. If boating is too extreme and you’re getting too comfortable with dining the usual way, the floating cottage may be the perfect thing for you.
Photo from Vivian Pacaña Masong
Photo from Vivian Pacaña Masong
DAY USE:
₱200 per head
Open hours: depends on what time the customers arrive/start.
EXCLUSIVE USE (WHOLE COTTAGE)
₱4,500 for 12 hours, good for 15 persons
OTHER INFORMATION:
All bookings must be made in advance; no walk-in. Bookings must be confirmed at least 2-3 days prior.
Corkage fee: None
Contact number: 0929-805-4888, 0966-819-0555
Email address: N/A
Facebook page: N/A
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location on Google maps: Kawit Public Market, Medellin, Northern Cebu — approx. 3 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From the Cebu City North Bus Terminal, ride on a bus bound for Kawit. Once in Kawit, tell the driver to drop you off at Kawit Public Market. From there, you can ride a habal-habal or walk your way to Kawit Beach.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Kawit Public Market” in Medellin, Cebu.
4. LA RITA FLOATING COTTAGE (CORDOVA)
Photo from Karla Mae Renegado
Hop onboard and let your stresses drift away on La Rita’s refined take on a floating cottage! Their spacious cottage has a huge floor area and offers guests a lot of room to move about while bonding with friends or family at sea.
The cottage is almost as big as a house, and is comprised of a dining area, the deck, a pool, and a comfort room.
Photo from La Rita’s Floating Cottage Facebook Page
Photo from La Rita’s Floating Cottage Facebook Page
Photo from La Rita’s Floating Cottage Facebook Page
Photo from La Rita’s Floating Cottage Facebook Page
Photo from La Rita’s Floating Cottage Facebook Page
RATES:
Weekday day use: ₱2,500, good for 20 persons; 25 with kids
Weekend day use: ₱3,000, same inclusions
Available hours: 8AM to 5PM
Down payment required for reservations: ₱500, paid through GCash, BPI, Palawan Express, Cebuana Lhuillier, etc.
OTHER INFORMATION:
Payment includes boat transfer from port to cottage and vice versa.
Exact location on Google maps: Bantayan Bay (near RoRo port), Sitio Bantayan, Poblacion, Cordova, Cebu – 40 minutes from the center of Cebu City
BY VAN: From SM City Cebu Van Terminal, ride a van going to Cordova. The van will drop you off at Gaisano Grand Mall Cordova and there, you may ride a tricycle or hail a taxi to Bantayan Bay.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Bantayan Port” in Cordova, Cebu.
5. TWIN FLOATING COTTAGE (CORDOVA)
Photo from Twin Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
Serene floating cottages in Cordova are perfect for families and friends who want to unwind, relax, and enjoy.
This floating cottage in Cordova comes with a mini pool, hammocks, a grilling area, portable toilet, and more.
Photo from Twin Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
Photo from Twin Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
Photo from Twin Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
Photo from Twin Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
Photo from Twin Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
Photo from Twin Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
RATES:
Weekday Rates:
P2,500 (20-25 pax)
P3,500 (30-40 pax)
P5,000 (40-50 pax)
Weekend Rates:
P3,000 (20-25 pax)
P4,000 (30-40 pax)
P6,000 (40-50 pax)
OTHER INFORMATION:
Rates above do not include boat transfer from port to cottage and vice versa.
Exact location on Google maps: Bantayan Bay (near RoRo port), Sitio Bantayan, Poblacion, Cordova, Cebu – 40 minutes from the center of Cebu City
BY VAN: From SM City Cebu Van Terminal, ride a van going to Cordova. The van will drop you off at Gaisano Grand Mall Cordova and there, you may ride a tricycle or hail a taxi to Bantayan Bay.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Bantayan Port” in Cordova, Cebu.
6. EL NERO FLOATING COTTAGE (CORDOVA)
Photo from El Nero Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
Bantayan Bay, Cordova, Cebu is a perfect recreational destination for those seeking a day’s get-away from regular routines. Perfect for families, friends, and colleagues who just want a good day out.
El Nero is among the trusted floating cottages in Cordova. Their floating cottages come with a mini pool with safety net for kids, grilling area, free life vests, among others.
Photo from El Nero Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
Photo from El Nero Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
Photo from El Nero Floating Cottage Cordova Facebook Page
RATES:
Weekday day use: ₱2,500, good for 20 persons; 25 with kids
Weekend day use: ₱3,000, same inclusions
Opening hours: 8AM to 5PM
OTHER INFORMATION:
Payment includes boat transfer from port to cottage and vice versa.
Exact location on Google maps: Bantayan Bay (near RoRo port), Sitio Bantayan, Poblacion, Cordova, Cebu – 40 minutes from the center of Cebu City
BY VAN: From SM City Cebu Van Terminal, ride a van going to Cordova. The van will drop you off at Gaisano Grand Mall Cordova and there, you may ride a tricycle or hail a taxi to Bantayan Bay.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Bantayan Port” in Cordova, Cebu.
Are you ready for your next northern staycation in Cebu? This resort in Danao City offers beachside elegance.
Located in Sabang, Danao City with its highly desirable beachfront, Playa Norte is ideal for those who want a good swim, kayaking, or recovery trip by the sea.
Photo from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook Page
Furnished in a modern tropical theme, Playa Norte is perfect for family get-togethers, barkada getaways, or even intimate team buildings as the resort can accommodate up to 15 people.
Explore a small rockpool formation within the property and enjoy spectacular ocean views from the balcony!
The beach house can comfortably accommodate 10 up to a maximum of 15 guests. It features two (2) seaview bedrooms: the master’s bedroom has a king bed, a double deck (full bed + single bed), a sofa bed, a private bathroom, and a balcony overlooking the sea; the second bedroom has three (3) double deckers (full bed + single bed in three sets) with its own bathroom and own deck facing the sea.
Photo from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook Page
AMENITIES:
Fully Equipped Kitchen
Airconditioned Living and Dining Areas with an Old piano, Powder Room, and a Seaview Balcony
Beach Front Access
Free Kayak Use
50mbps WiFi
Multiple Outdoor Lounge Areas w Electrical Outlets
Grilling Area
4-Slot Car Park
24/7 Inhouse Staff Assistance
Photo from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook PagePhoto from Playa Norte Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Exclusive Rate:
Exclusive use of the house
Good for up to 10 persons
With breakfast
Rate: P13,500 per night
Extra persons: P1,000 per head (13y/o up) / P500 per head (3-12y/o)
Contact information and inquiries are made via Airbnb only.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Sabang, Danao City, Northern Cebu — 1.5-2 hours away from the city.
The host will be providing you with the complete instructions on how to get there. Below directions will just give you an idea of the transportation options.
BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu North Bus Terminal, ride a bus/van bound for Carmen, Catmon, Sogod, Borbon, or any bus/van bound for the north. You can ask the driver to just drop you off at Danao City proper. From there, you can ride a tricycle or habal-habal going to Playa Norte.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Playa Norte” in Danao City. Parking space is available upon arrival.
When one would talk about fast-food here in the Philippines, famous brands like Jollibee, McDo, Chowking, and many more would be the first names that would come into mind. But in Cebu, the case is quite different for some people, especially when it comes to Orange Brutus – the iconic fast-food chain every Cebuano loves.
Photo from Orange Brutus Facebook PagePhoto from Orange Brutus Facebook Page
For more than 40 years, Orange Brutus serves as the original (OG) Cebuano fast-food chain, having existed way before famous fast-food brands like Jollibee did.
First opened in the 1980s with its first branch at the former Fairmart Department Store in Colon Street, Orange Brutus was run by two young Cebuano entrepreneurs – by introducing a hamburger and shake fast fast-food concept.
This was relatively a bold step at that time, as it was new to Cebuanos in that decade. Eventually, the store became known as the Orange Brutus and was well-received by Cebuanos, particularly to their tasty hamburgers and fresh shakes.
Orange Brutus then decided to focus on pleasing the Cebuano family as their target market, where they developed other products such as spaghetti, hotdogs, cakes and many more and with this growth, many outlets within Cebu has since opened. Today, they currently have 19 outlets serving their loyal patrons all over Cebu.
Photo from Orange Brutus Facebook Page
BESTSELLERS
Perhaps, their most famous serving today is their Sizzling Burger Steak, their iconic Orange Brutus burger patty served in a sizzling plate with an ample amount of veggies and rice. Their signature gravy that comes along with the sizzling burger steak is definitely the reason Cebuano really loved this version of burger steak.
Photo from Orange Brutus Facebook PagePhoto from Orange Brutus Facebook Page
Speaking of dessert, Orange Brutus also has their own selections when it comes to cakes. Their best-selling moist chocolate cake, aptly called “Chocolate Monster” is well-known locally, where it managed to land in “top chocolates cakes in Cebu” lists for many years now.
They also deviate from today’s popular fast-food chains by opting to healthier oils that are used in cooking their fried items. Their famous burgers are also charbroiled to ensure that meat products are low in cholesterol and are never pre-cooked. Raw materials go through a chemical-free process called ozonation, which eliminates all unwanted bacteria, harmful hormones, pesticides and enzymes.
Photo from Orange Brutus Facebook PagePhoto from Orange Brutus Facebook Page
Having been hailed officially as a Cebuano pride, Orange Brutus’ continuous success is proof that they have really mastered pleasing the Cebuano palate. From previous generations, up to the current and in the future, Orange Brutus will continue to serve and be part of Cebuano traditions.
On Tuesday evening, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of March 29, 2022.
The whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and Cebu Province — recorded 17 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 45 new recoveries, and 0 new deaths. Cebu’s total active cases declined to 747 (from 775).
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 53,801 (+9 new) – Total recoveries: 51,657 (+12 new) – Total deaths: 1,690 (+0 new) – Active cases: 454
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 17,051 (+1 new) – Total recoveries: 16,523 (+3 new) – Total deaths: 511 (+0 new) – Active cases: 17
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 15,411 (+1 new) – Total recoveries: 14,894 (+3 new) – Total deaths: 497 (+0 new) – Active cases: 20
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 46,282 (+6 new) – Total recoveries: 43,212 (+27 new) – Total deaths: 2,814 (+0 new) – Active cases: 256
SUMMARY OF COVID-19 CASES IN CEBU:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 747 (from 775)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 132,545 (+17 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 126,286 (+45 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 5,512 (+0 new)
A total of 1,489 laboratory results were released.
NOTES from DOH-7:
*As per DOH-7, the additional deaths in the report are not due to the overnight spike in deaths but due to more accurate data collection and validating efforts. Not all of those deaths occurred today but occurred more than a week ago.
Reports maybe subject to change as these claims undergo thorough validation by the local healthcare offices and health personnel.
Good news for commuters from Consolacion and nearby areas.
Consolacion is one of the busiest towns in Cebu where the traffic on a regular day from the city to Consolacion takes at least 1.5 hours. But finally, after a long wait, MyBus will serve SM Consolacion starting on Friday, April 1 to provide comfortable public transportation to the commuters.
The best news is, MyBus is offering free rides from/to SM Consolacion from April 1 until further notice.
Here are the schedules and stops on the following routes:
Akeish Beach Floating Cottage offers a combined experience of dining and boating. If boating is too extreme and you’re getting too comfortable with dining the usual way, the floating cottage may be the perfect thing for you!
You and up to 14 of your friends can rent out an exclusive floating cottage and set to sea to eat, jive, and vibe on top of the waves. Located in Medellin, Akeish Beach Floating Cottage offers to take you out to the waters as you spend some quality time bonding with friends or family.
Photo by Vivian Pacaña Masong
Photo by Vivian Pacaña Masong
Photo by Vivian Pacaña Masong
The floating cottage itself is simple, yet accommodating.
As a centerpiece, a traditional cottage is built on the deck. The cottage consists of a rectangular table with benches on both long sides and a roof covering the whole sitting area. On one side of the cottage is a barricaded space that allows seawater in; it’s a pool that’s best for children and those who can’t swim. Opposite that side is a functioning toilet and changing room. It might fall short when compared to your usual staycation amenities in resorts, but this is truly all you need to have a good time at sea!
Photo by Vivian Pacaña Masong
Photo by Vivian Pacaña Masong
Photo by Vivian Pacaña Masong
The cottage is perfect for boodle fights, picnics, and even a bit of day drinking. Just be sure to keep safe, especially out in the water! You’re free to make use of the space however you like. You can take a dip while out in the waters, unwind on the deck, take a dip in the seawater pool, but remember to stick close to the cottage at all times.
Guests may bring any kind of food and recreation. As responsible laagans, just make sure to bring easily disposable food and drinks and trash bags. Keep safe and be mindful as well of the cottage when swimming in close proximity.
The host is accommodating is responds to inquiries promptly. For any reservations and bookings, make sure to reach the owner through the contact number.
Photo by Vivian Pacaña Masong
Photo by Vivian Pacaña Masong
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
₱200 per head
Open hours: depends on what time the customers arrive/start.
EXCLUSIVE USE (whole cottage)
₱4,500 for 12 hours, good for 15 persons
OTHER INFORMATION:
All bookings must be made in advance; no walk-in. Bookings must be confirmed at least 2-3 days prior.
Corkage fee: None
Contact number: 0929-805-4888, 0966-819-0555
Email address: N/A
Facebook page: N/A
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location on Google maps: Kawit Public Market, Medellin, Northern Cebu — approx. 3 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From the Cebu City North Bus Terminal, ride on a bus bound for Kawit. Once in Kawit, tell the driver to drop you off at Kawit Public Market. From there, you can ride a habal-habal or walk your way to Kawit Beach.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Kawit Public Market” in Medellin, Cebu.
Cebuanos loves chicken. There is no doubt about that.
Most particularly, we enjoy just munching on those crunchy and flavorful chicken wings. One of the all-time favorites in the chicken wings industry though has finally opened their 4th branch in Cebu.
Located along Mango Avenue in Cebu City, NY Buffalo Brad’s has opened at the most accessible area in the heart of Cebu City. What’s more? They also offer very convenient – its first-ever – drive-thru service.
You can now just drive by with your friends and family for that rush lunch or dinner or even for picnics and get-togethers. Don’t worry for you can never go wrong as they have plenty of flavors that you can choose from. From those sweet and tasty chicken wings to the creamy and classic ones.
Brads Hot Wings Flavors
Classic Buffalo
Brad’s Gravy
Garlic Parmesan
Lemon Pepper
Honey Garlic
Honey Mustard
Pesto
Hickory
Barbecue Lime
Sweet Spicy
As a fast-food restaurant that serves a wide variety of delicious flavored chicken wings that every customer can choose from, the unique charm of Brad’s hot wings is in its name itself, the choice of how hot you want to take it.
Yes, the level of hotness as add-ons is quite famous as it has become both a challenge and a dream for those who are very into spicy food.
It is no joke though as the level goes from ‘moderate’ to ‘hot’ to ‘wild’ until the ‘insane’ level which I don’t know how people consume. This only attests though that despite the ‘insane’ level of hotness the chicken wings are still as tasty as it gets.
Ready your stomachs and palette Cebuanos for you can now enjoy the well-loved and trending Brads hot wings in different flavors among other food on their menu just inside the busy city.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Best-sellers:
Classic Buffalo
Garlic Parmesan
Honey Mustard
Menu:
Promo is valid on April 4-6, 2022
Cebu branches:
Mango Square Mall, Gen. Maxilom Ave., Cebu City (new)
Exact location: Mango Square, Mango Avenue, Cebu City
BY BUS: Ride any bus/PUJ going that will pass by Mango Square and tell the driver to drop you off there.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Mango Square” in Cebu City. Parking space is available.
Now open for franchise!
Established in 2016, New York Buffalo Brad’s Hot Wings opened its first branch in Garden Bloc, IT Park Cebu in the summer of 2017 where it offers ala carte Flavored Chicken Wings, Hotdogs, New York Burgers, Fries, Ribs, Pasta, and more.
Over the years, the brand has captured thousands of thousands of Cebuanos and still continues to attract new customers every day with now four (4) branches sprouting on the island of Cebu.
NY Buffalo Brad’s Hot Wings has finally opened its doors for franchising so you can turn your dream of a buffalo wings franchise into a reality! For franchise inquiries, contact them at 0917-703-7372 or email [email protected].
If you missed the seat sale from Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines, don’t fret as there’s more! AirAsia has launched the Super Summer highlighting the one-way base rates as low as P28.
Photo from Unsplash
Fly to your favorite summer destinations like Bohol, Dumaguete, Cebu, Puerto Princesa, Singapore, and many more AirAsia domestic and international destinations for as low as PHP 28 ONE-WAY BASE FARE! The travel period is from March 28 to September 30 and the sale is available until April 3, 2022.
As we move forward and learn to live with the virus, we should still not put our guards down. And vaccination, until we reach herd immunity, is key to finally ending the pandemic.
To achieve this, the Department of Health in Central Visayas (DOH-7) will conduct a three-day house-to-house immunization campaign across Cebu province’s towns and component cities, focusing on older residents.
Photo from Unsplash
Apart from the unvaccinated elderly, Dr. Jaime Bernadas, DOH-7 regional director, noted in a press conference on Monday that the enhanced campaign against coronavirus disease (Covid-19) also targets youngsters and individuals with comorbidities.
He stated that some areas remain unvaccinated which prompted the agency to launch the three-day regional vaccination efforts, with an emphasis on Cebu province’s municipalities and component cities, as a “final” effort to eliminate the spread of COVID-19.
Based on DOH’s data, Central Visayas has vaccinated 62.8 percent of the entire eligible population.
Photo from Unsplash
Only Cebu City and Lapu-Lapu City have met the required vaccination coverage for both the general population and the A2 category or senior citizens for a locality to transition to an Alert Level 1 status.
Cebu has the lowest vaccination coverage among the Central Visayas provinces, at 40%, compared to 45 percent in Negros Oriental, 50 percent in Bohol, and 88 percent in Siquijor.
