It feels like a bittersweet blend of nostalgia and sadness…
Morisette Amon is back with her latest single, “Ihilak Lang Na,” a beautiful collaboration with the talented Cebuano musician and playwright, Jude Gitamondoc, who composed the song, with lyrics by Therese Villarante.
A Song Born from the Pandemic
Jude Gitamondoc shared that the song was written during the pandemic, a time when many felt isolated and lonely. Therese Villarante crafted the lyrics with Morisette’s unique and melancholic voice in mind, but Jude initially doubted that the label would consider the song—it seemed like a distant dream especially considering the current trend in P-Pop. However, fate has a way of rewarding those who patiently waited. So, in a surprising twist, Therese submitted a demo of the song without Jude knowing, and soon after, he received the thrilling news that Morisette’s label had chosen his work; marking it as one of the year-end blessings that highlighted his talent and his team’s dedication.
The Lyrics
FIRST STANZA Human na pud imung salida Hurot na pud ang imung katawa Walay naghuwat sa balay Unsa man diay? Di na ka batang gamay
Hiposa na ang imong kinan-an Ug pil-a na ang imong linabhan Layo imung ginikanan Ug bug-at ang imong dughan
CHORUS Ihilak lang na Kon banha ang hunahuna Ihilak lang na Huwata and adlawn luyo sa imohang bintana Ihilak lang na
SECOND STANZA Buhii nang mga nibiya Kalimti nang mga damgong guba Tambali ang mga samad Panalipdi ng kasingkasing mong bukad
CHORUS Ihilak lang na Kon banha ang hunahuna Ihilak lang na Huwata and adlawn luyo sa imohang bintana Ihilak lang na
Ihilak lang na (3x)
Trapohi na imong mga luha Barug diha nga murag wala Ikaw ra usa sa balay Unsa man diay? Di na ka batang gamay.
Honest Review
Morisette Amon’s song “Ihilak Lang Na” is a powerful song about pain and vulnerability. From the very first note, I felt the depth of emotion in her voice. Even though the pandemic may be behind us, the song’s message remains relevant—especially for those going through the complexities of adulthood, where solitude can feel like an overwhelming and never-ending challenge.
The lyrics captured the necessity of expressing our emotions, reminding us that it’s okay to cry and seek help. The song has a haunting tune that gives a deep sense of longing and resilience, reflecting the struggle to breathe and find meaning in the middle of life’s problems. “Ihilak Lang Na” is not just a song; it’s an anthem for anyone facing their battles, urging us all to embrace our feelings and keep moving forward, just as what the last stanza said, “Trapohi na imong mga luha, barug diha nga murag wala.”
As the clock strikes twelve and bid farewell to 2024, a few hotels in Cebu are planning to host a New Year’s eve party. Enjoy the New year with enchanting party favors and awe-provoking moments at these hotels and celebrate the New Year with newfound joy and hopeful prosperity. Here are the hotels in Cebu who are offering New Year’s eve parties:
Bai Hotel Cebu
Photo from Bai Hotel Cebu
The Bai Hotel in Cebu is set to host a New Year’s eve celebration that will have their guests spellbound. Aptly titled “Magic Moment,” this enchanting event promises a night of captivating entertainment, tantalizing canapès, and a firework display that will leave on-lookers starry-eyed. Match up with the party’s mystical ambiance by wearing your favorite fairy costume and sprinkling some pixie dust as they welcome 2025.
Twilight Rooftop Lounge and Bar will transform into a veritable wonderland. Guests will be greeted with an open bar serving a mystical selection of cocktails, local beers, iced tea, and chilled juices—the perfect way to set the mood for a magical evening.
Exact Location: Ouano Avenue, corner C.D.Seno, Mandaue City, 6014 Cebu
By Car: You can ride your car heading to Robinsons Galleria, and then going straight to Parkmall, Bai Hotel is just a 2 minute walk.
Shangri-la Mactan, Cebu
Photo from Shang-ri La Mactan Cebu
Who wants to go to a luau and wear their best tropical theme costume? Shangri-la hotel is celebrating the New Year with a Toasts and Tropics Gala Dinner. You get access to an elegant gala dinner with a tropical theme, live entertainment, and access to a countdown party. The countdown party will have a beach party atmosphere that consists of live DJ performances, and countdown festivities by the beach creating a memorable experience with your friends and family.
By Car: You can drive to Shangri-la hotel in 19 mins by car
Savoy Hotel, Mactan Newtown
Photo from Savoy Mactan
Enjoy the New Year’s eve countdown with a dinner buffet at the Savoy Hotel in Lapu-lapu city and have an immersive experience in celebrating the arrival of the new year, with live entertainment, a vibrant countdown, and stunning visual displays together with a lavish buffet and an amazing array of delicious dishes to enjoy as you celebrate the New Year’s eve festivities.
The set also includes a 2025 New Year Spectacle Room Package that consists of an overnight stay at a classic superior room, breakfast buffet for two, and a dinner buffet for two. The general access has passes for two people and a free calendar.
Exact Location: The Mactan Newtown, Newtown Blvd, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu
By Car: ride a car going to Mactan Newtown, and then straight to Savoy Hotel
Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort
Photo from Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort
Celebrate the New Year’s eve with a dinner buffet at the 5 Cien restaurant, with free flowing sparkling wine or draft beer, live entertainment, and 5 course set meñu at DIP Nikkei Restaurant: free access to a four course set meñu, free-flowing sparkling wine, and live entertainment. You can also get access to the countdown party that consist of free-flowing non-alcoholic beverages (soda, chilled juice), alcoholic beverages (red and white wines, cocktails, and local beer) with a live performance of a band, dance performances, and DJ entertainment with a firework display to ring in the New Year.
Photo from Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet at 5 Cien Restaurant:
Php 7,900 net per adult
Date: December 31, 2024| 6:00-10:00 PM
New Year’s Eve 5-Course Dinner at DIP Nikkei Restaurant
Exact Location: Punta Engaño Rd, Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City, 6015 Cebu
By Car: a town car from the airport to the resort takes about 11 minutes and costs between Php 1,000-1,200.
Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark
Photo from JPark Official Facebook Page
We have a New Year’s eve gala and countdown at Jpark Island Resort and Water complete with a lavish dinner buffet, unlimited beer, wine, and selected cocktails, and live entertainment with the FOJ band. The countdown party is at 10:00 PM to 1:00 AM with unlimited drinks, beats by DJ Sugar, and an electrifying party atmosphere.
Photo from JPark Official Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
The New Year’s Eve party rates is depending on the package you chose
What’s up mga Sugbuanon! Just a few more days, it’s finally New Year. Excited na ba mo para sa Bag ong Tuig? And you know what, what’s New Year without some fun and quirky Filipino traditions. And just like everyone else, Filipinos around the world mark the event as one of the year’s most special events.
In the Philippines, New Year celebrations are fun and exciting. Turning the entire country into a war zone, with fireworks set off with great abandon all over the place. There are some interesting traditions—some are also superstitious or associated with folk beliefs for the New Year.
For centuries, Filipinos have practiced various customs to greet the incoming year. Many do it with an expectant heart, cultivating optimism and looking forward to hopes for prosperity. The traditions have been passed down for generations and have Spanish and Chinese influences.
With Sugbo.ph, we would like to share with you the five quirky Filipino New Year traditions and practices that welcome the New Year:
Polka Dot Magic
For Filipinos, wearing anything round signifies prosperity. The polka dots epitomise money and fortune.
Jumping High When The Clock Strikes 12
Children are encouraged to jump as high as they can when the clock strikes twelve because old folks believe that it will help them grow taller.
Media Noche
New Year’s celebration for Filipinos isn’t complete without the old Filipino custom, Media Noche. During new year’s eve, Filipino families, relatives, and friends gather for a lavish midnight feast that symbolises their hopes for prosperity and an abundant year ahead. This tradition is most likely inherited from the Spaniards, who colonised the country for more than three hundred years.
A Variety of Round Shaped Fruits
For some it’s 12, 13, or 14—it doesn’t matter as long as you have round fruits on the table. Filipinos believe that round fruits are a symbol for prosperity and fortune. This tradition was inherited by the Chinese. The round fruits are often the centerpiece of the Media Noche. Fruits with thorns like pineapple, jackfruit, and durian are also avoided as thorns symbolize problems or obstacles.
Eat Sticky Rice To Strengthen Family Bond
Filipinos are known to be family oriented with very close family ties. They believe that eating food made from sticky rice like bibingka (a type of baked rice cake), biko (sweet rice cake), and tikoy (also known as nian gao, which is translated to Chinese New Year’s cake) will bind families together stronger and it is also believed to deliver prosperity.
That’s it!
That’s it mga Sugbuanon! As New Year is just right around the corner. May you continue to have a prosperous New Year celebration with your families as you celebrate with these fun and quirky practices and traditions.
We want to protect freedom of speech, but not an unlimited speech
That’s right, folks, the recent viral drama has turned legal.
Denise became a trending topic before the holidays when BJ Pascual related a stressful experience he had while working with her team. BJ mentioned that Denise’s team canceled the day before their scheduled shoot. After the viral video went viral, Denise announced that she would be taking a social media break.
OPM singer Denise Julia has spoken once again after fashion photographer BJ Pascual posted multiple screenshots to share his side of the story. This stemmed from a revelation made by BJ in a video podcast naming Denise as the “worst celebrity” he has worked with.
On X, Denise quoted BJ’s screenshots with a full screen recording of the messages between her manager, John Vincent Salcedo, and the fashion photographer’s manager, Pearl Acuesta. The OPM singer shared the whole conversation for “full transparency as we have nothing to hide.”
“We went into this wanting to work with you—we were genuine fans and we’re so excited about this collaboration,” Denise began.
Denise also explained that they have been upfront with their budget for the music video, the photoshoot, the album art, the trailer, and the press photos from the beginning. Furthermore, she said that she had also rescheduled the entire release date so that she could work with BJ and respect his time.
Denise Julia said that her manager suggested solutions and new dates to push through with the shoot so that “no one’s effort goes to waste.”
“What hurts the most is seeing my character publicly attacked over something that’s not out of my control but is a business negotiation between our managers and conversations that should’ve stayed private. You targeted me to bring me down,” she said.
She also added, “I thought this was something we had agreed on to talk about in person. We are now in contact with our legal team about a defamation suit. I hate that this had to go this way when it didn’t have to.”
Recently, vlogger Killa Kush deleted BJ’s video guesting on the Bad B*tch Podcast. This episode contained BJ’s revelation about Denise. “Killa Kush deleted her BJ Pascual vid? Oop,” one user said on X. Denise quoted the tweet and said, “Damn at least delete mine and my best friend’s too.
As of this writing, Killa just deleted Denise and her best friend and creative director Carissa King’s guesting on the podcast.
The Cebuano business scene has so much potential. All it needs is to meet their market where they are.
Today’s consumer is all about convenience and being digital-first, from immersing themselves in promotional content to purchasing their needs and wants, which is why businesses need to step up their game. They need to be present in all aspects necessary, and that includes an ecommerce platform.
This inspired the partnership of TikTok, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), and the Department of Trade and Industry – Central Visayas (DTI Region 7) with the Republiq Group of Companies (RGC) to bring the Cebuano business world “RGC Brings TikTok to Cebu!”
Entrepreneurs, members of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and creators graced the Grand Ballroom of NUSTAR Resort and Casino on December 9, 2024 for a learning session about creating and sustaining a TikTok Shop, market trends and insights, sales strategies and more to future-proof their businesses.
Among the speakers for the event were Anj Mendoza and Niks Fojas from TikTok who introduced the crowd to TikTok Shop and its features to help them get started. Believing in the possibilities that await Cebuano business ventures, the introduction to the basics of the ecommerce platform was just a start to what more TikTok can offer to help grow them.
The event was also supported and attended by the CCCI President Jay Yuvallos, MCCI President Mark Anthony Ynoc, and DTI Region 7 Regional Director Maria Elena Arbon as they held talks with the audience about the plans and programs of each institution to advocate in nurturing businesses in Cebu together with partners.
Dimples Romana, entrepreneur and digital creator, was also one of the speakers for the event who shared to the crowd her experience being on both sides of the coin. She gave emphasis on doing things with passion and innovation, and the significance of businesses adapting to the digital space.
RGC Brings TikTok to Cebu marks the first step for upgrading businesses for this generation and along with its success, it also hopes to be one of many more to come because learning never stops.
Prititit! The Sinulog festival is right around the corner! Excitement is in the air because it is finally that time of the year where we Sugbuanons are united by our faith and love for God. Aside from the extravagant parades and festivities, may we always be reminded of God’s love and our faith for Him. Here is the official schedule of events and activities:
Day One: January 9, 2025
Walk with Jesus ℅ Augustinian Missionaries – 4:00 am
(Route: Osmeña Blvd to Basilica)
Opening Salvo Mass – 5:00 am at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño
Day Two: January 10, 2025
Sinulog 2025: Opening Declaration Ceremonial Mass at 2:30 pm at the Basilica Pilgrim Center
Sinulog Launching Parade at 3:00 pm (Venue to be Announced)
Ceremonial Opening at 6:00 pm in Cebu City Sports Complex
KZ & Company Concert at 7:00 pm (Venue to be Announced)
Opening Ceremony at 7:00 pm in Fuente Osmeña
Sinulog Idol at 7:30 pm in Fuente Osmeña
Day Three: January 10-20, 2025
Sinulog Festival Nightly Shows at 6:00 pm in SRP, Fuente Osmeña and Plaza Independencia
Day Four: January 10-21, 2025
OSANino at 40 Exhibit by Order of Saint Augustine at SM Seaside (Mall Hours)
Day Five: January 10-28, 2025
Sto. Nino Exhibit at the Gallery, Ayala Center Cebu (Mall Hours)
Day Six: January 11, 2025
BRASS BAND PARADE with Majorettes – Same route as Sinulog sa Lalawigan at 2:00 pm
BRASS BAND Competition at 6:00 pm in Cebu City Sports Complex
Cultural Show – DEPED Cebu Province at 6:00 pm in Fuente Osmeña
Cultural Show – University of Cebu Dance Troupe at 8:00 pm in Plaza Independencia
Sinulog Idol at 7:30 pm in the Fuente Osmeña
Day Seven: January 12, 2025
Cebu Marathon at 12:00 MN in SM Seaside Cebu
Sinulog Sa Dakbayan at 2:00 pm in Cebu City Sports Complex
Cultural Show – MCSHS, MCSFA & UV at 6:00 pm in Fuente Osmeña
Cultural Show – TBA at 8:00 pm in Plaza Independencia
It’s finally that time of the year where we celebrate our faith and show our love to the Señor Santo Niño (The Child Jesus) as Cebu’s grandest festival is fast approaching. We are very excited to announce the official novena mass schedule for 2025:
“It’s not how expensive or cheap it is, it’s what the thought counts”
Photo from Canva
What’s up, mga Sugbuanons! Hapit najud ang Pasko and you know what that means? It’s finally that time of the year where we need our Christmas budgeting tips to buy presents for our loved ones. Everyone wants their fair share of gifts and treats, so much that all are also digging in their wallets and estimating the right amount that will fit with their shopping lists. With many stores and countless discounts, it would be safe to say that a critical part of managing one’s budget isn’t just the price, but rather the amount of items to be given.
So, without further ado, here are five unique gift ideas with 100 pesos:
Cellphone Holders
These things are among the cheapest. They cost nineteen pesos each and come in a range of sizes (fitting every type of cell phone) and colors, making them the ideal preppy gift for your buddies.
Cutesy Nail Files
These nail files are a great gift for stylish friends who are always on the road for grooming. They are small enough to fit in their purses and colorful enough to stand out. They are also reasonably priced, at sixty-six pesos for four files per package.
Bookmarks
Colorful bookmarks, which are commonly available in bookstores, are the ideal present for bookworms, and they come in different colors too. How cool is that? There are even magnetic options for you to choose from, or you can also make your own to have with a dash of sentimental value.
Lip Gloss
This item can be found in your local drugstores. If you have a friend who is fond of makeup? A single lip gloss is priced at eighty-nine pesos, they come in a variety of colors and scents.
Foldable Bags
Remember the movie Inception? These types of bags can be found in the stalls as a small bag. Unzip the bag and take the folded extra bag out of the bag. A perfect gift for a friend who is always on the go and this is only priced at eight-five pesos.
And that’s it mga Sugbuanon! I hope your Christmas is filled with so much joy and happiness in this season of giving. I hope these unique gift ideas will make your Christmas gift shopping less heavy on the wallet and give you many more blessings on Christmas day with family and friends.
Oakridge Business Park has been awarded the 2024 Bakawan Award, the highest recognition given by First Gen to its partners, for its commitment to environmental stewardship, decarbonization, and regeneration.
Photo from Oakridge Business Park
Presented during the Customer Appreciation Night on December 4, 2024, the award reflects Oakridge’s dedication to sustainability and its efforts in advancing renewable energy and green innovation. Oakridge was also named Customer of the Year, further highlighting its role in promoting environmental care and energy efficiency.
Photo from Oakridge Business ParkPhoto from Oakridge Business Park
“At Oakridge, sustainability is at the heart of what we do, and this recognition drives us to further build a greener, more resilient future,” said Anne Liu, President of Oakridge Business Park. “This award affirms our commitment to setting a standard for responsible energy use and environmental stewardship. We don’t just build for today, we build for tomorrow.”
The Bakawan Award, inspired by the resilience of mangroves, celebrates efforts that protect ecosystems, mitigate climate change, and foster biodiversity—principles that align closely with Oakridge’s sustainability practices.
Photo from Oakridge Business ParkPhoto from Oakridge Business ParkPhoto from Oakridge Business ParkPhoto from Oakridge Business Park
More than 50% of the business park’s development is dedicated to open spaces, underscoring Oakridge’s focus on environmental preservation. These areas are designed to create green landscapes that enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, and foster a healthier environment for both tenants and the community. Oakridge Business Park’s key sustainability initiatives include bike stations that promote eco-friendly commuting, rainwater harvesting systems to conserve water, and energy-efficient LED lighting that reduces energy consumption while maintaining high-quality lighting. Oakridge has also incorporated energy-regulated ventilation systems to ensure efficient airflow and minimize energy usage, further advancing its green infrastructure. Additionally, Oakridge has invested in solar-powered charging stations for gadgets, electric vehicle charging stations to support renewable energy use, and a waste-to-fuel program that converts waste into energy, reducing its environmental footprint.
Photo from Oakridge Business ParkPhoto from Oakridge Business ParkPhoto from Oakridge Business Park
“Sustainability is not just a goal—it’s ingrained in every aspect of our operations,” Liu added. “These initiatives aim to foster a sustainable environment for both our tenants and the wider community.”
This recognition underscores Oakridge’s leadership in sustainable practices and its role as a pioneer in advancing a decarbonized future. By integrating environmental care into its development and operations, Oakridge demonstrates how innovation and environmental responsibility can drive meaningful and lasting change.
Photo from Oakridge Business ParkPhoto from Oakridge Business ParkPhoto from Oakridge Business ParkPhoto from Oakridge Business ParkPhoto from Oakridge Business Park
About Oakridge Business Park
Nestled in the heart of Mandaue City, Oakridge Business Park is a masterfully planned development designed for progressive businesses and professionals. It features open spaces, diverse dining and lifestyle destinations, and versatile event venues such as Oakridge Pavilion, Oakridge Horizons, and Oakridge Executive Club.
With sustainability at its core, Oakridge integrates green infrastructure and eco-friendly initiatives, creating a resilient and thriving community. Its expansive open areas foster creativity, collaboration, and a unique sense of place, setting it apart as a vibrant hub for business, leisure, and events in Cebu.
Samsung is one of the top brands of smartphones who just never fails to amaze us in terms of its durability; but, the question is: Will the new Samsung Galaxy A16 live up to the hype established by its predecessors?
We’ve been using the Samsung Galaxy A16 for a few weeks now, and I have to say, I’m seriously impressed! As someone who’s always on the go, this phone has quickly become one of my daily companions, and here’s why I think it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in the market for a new device:
Great Display, Amazing Graphics
To begin with, the Super AMOLED display is a huge step forward. Every time I use my phone, be it scrolling through my social media, watching videos or playing games, the vibrant colors and sharpness are incomparable. The FHD+ resolution is a true game changer as it enhances the richness of the colors which are so real that they leap out of the screen. It’s the perfect screen for anyone who loves high-quality visuals, and I honestly can’t imagine going back to a regular screen after this.
Capturing Every Moment in Detail
When it comes to cameras, the Galaxy A16 definitely delivers. The 50MP main camera captures sharp, detailed photos that I’m proud to share on my socials. Plus, the 5MP ultra-wide camera is fantastic for group shots or wide landscapes, especially when I’m out enjoying the Christmas festivities here in Cebu. The 2MP macro camera is a fun touch for getting those super close-up shots, like the intricate details of a beautiful flower or a holiday treat. And for selfies, the 13MP front camera always gets me looking my best, no matter the lighting.
Performance That Keeps Up With You
We haven’t had an issue with lag or any form of slowdown with gaming or while streaming/multitasking due to the strength of the 2.4GHz processor. And while at it, the battery goes up to 5,000mAh: it lasts so long, giving us so many hours without needing to be recharged; and then when a recharge is necessary, Super Fast Charging does the whole task super quick, to take me straight back up to 100%.
The IP54 rating is a huge plus as well. When you’re someone who is always out and about, whether it’s exploring the streets of Cebu or caught in the occasional rain shower, and knowing that your phone is water and dust-resistant, is such a relief. Plus, with up to 6 generations of OS upgrades and 6 years of security maintenance, you’ll get the sense of safety that your device will stay fresh and secure for years to come.
Among all the phones with great performance, quality graphics, awesome photo taking ability, dependable operational performances factor, and all-day-long operation, Galaxy A16 by Samsung can be regarded as something close to a full-of-tech phone, be it for gaming, for content creation, or even for someone who just wants a trusty phone for regular use. It does tick all the boxes. Just trust me; you’ll always be happy with that and you can even choose one in Gold or Blue Black from the 5G variant, while LTE, on the other hand, is available in Black, Gray, and an online-exclusive Light green! Go for it and see how it fits into your routines!
