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Meet: Filipino stunt coordinator who trained ‘The Batman’ lead stars for fight scenes

With nearly 30 years of experience, Filipino-American stunt coordinator Robert Alonzo is the man behind the thrilling fight scenes in Warner Bros.’ “The Batman” starring Robert Pattinson and Zoë Kravitz whom he personally trained.

Photo from Warner Bros

Under the helm of Alonzo, Robert Pattinson had to learn arnis, the national martial art of the Philippines, for the role of Batman in order to “eliminate anticipatory movement and heighten his close proximity reactivity.”

Robert Pattinson shared in an interview working with Alonzo: “Rob [Alonzo] has a great style. You learn certain signature moves, which you can build into different patterns really quickly.”

According to Alonzo, the design of the legendary DC Comics character’s outfit was also important in distinguishing Pattinson’s action style from that of past Batman performers. He points out that older costumes had a cowl and a cape that restricted movement.

Robert Alonzo was born in Manila, Philippines but moved to the United States with his family at the age of 10. His father Dionisio is from Cagayan, while his mother Julieta is from Tarlac.

The Filipino stuntman has worked over 200 projects in Hollywood for television, commercials, music videos, and film and his broad work in front of and behind the camera includes training the likes of Dwayne Johnson, Tom Cruise, Mark Walberg, Jeremy Renner, and Jake Gyllenhaal just to name a few. And with his stint in The Batman movie, Hollywood actors Robert Pattinson and Zoe Kravitz add to his star-studded list.

Photo from Warner Bros

Cebu logs 35 new cases on March 13

On Sunday 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 13, 2022.

The whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and Cebu Province — recorded 35 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 31 new recoveries, and 0 new deaths. Cebu’s total active cases slightly increased to 1,159 (from 1,154).

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 53,682 (+22 new)
– Total recoveries: 51,353 (+14 new)
– Total deaths: 1,676 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 653

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 17,030 (+6 new)
– Total recoveries: 16,474 (+14 new)
– Total deaths: 506 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 50

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 15,402 (+4 new)
– Total recoveries: 14,856 (+3 new)
– Total deaths: 493 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 53

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 46,103 (+3 new)
– Total recoveries: 42,911 (+0 new)
– Total deaths: 2,789 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 403

SUMMARY OF COVID-19 CASES IN CEBU:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 1,159 (from 1,154)
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 132,217 (+35 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 125,594 (+31 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 5,464 (+0 new)

A total of 981 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.

DOH-7 FULL REPORT (CENTRAL VISAYAS):

LOOK! LeBron x Nike Dunk Low ‘Fruity Pebbles’

As LeBron James and Nike continue to push the design boundaries of the “Fruity Pebbles” line, the cereal fad appears to be here to stay.

A Nike Dunk Low iteration for 2022 has been added to the collaboration. The Swoosh is accentuated in blue beside the collars and is constructed with a crisp, white leather foundation with red overlays.

The same blue tint can be found on the heel, which also features LeBron James’ King James insignia in white. The shoe’s color scheme complements the brand’s primary color motifs, which can be found on the tongue tags, insoles, and laces. The sneaker will be packaged in its own unique co-branded packaging.

Photo from zsneakerheadz on Instagram

The LeBron x Nike Dunk Low “Fruity Pebbles” has yet to be announced, but it is scheduled to appear later this year. Keep an eye on Nike for additional information.

The retail price tag is set at USD 160 (~PHP 8,000) and is expected to be released globally including the Philippines not later than May 2022.

Reel to Real Cebuano Celebrities and their Partners

Yes, love teams could be fun, especially if these teams go from reel to real, real quick.

However, if you want #RelationshipGoals, a real-life couple who have spent years together while being in the spotlight is the ‘real’ thing. Breakups every now and then sure is what celebrities most-likely eat for breakfast. Because of them being public figures, not everyone gets to understand the situation.

So, when we see couples who have withstand the test of time and fame, we couldn’t help but be in awe. Cebuanos must be so proud because most of the couples who have succeeded hurdles are their fellow Cebuanos.

Here, we have rounded up Cebuano celebrity couples who have continued to inspire us even up to this day.

1. Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli

The couple who have proven how powerful love could be. Mr. & Mrs. Guidicelli just recently tied the know in a secret wedding.

Though the parents of Sarah were against Cebuano actor, racer, and entrepreneur, Matteo, both have finally decided to prove their love for each and amidst all the issues and hindrances. Congratulations, AshMatt! We’re so happy for you.

2. Annabelle Rama and Eddie Gutierrez

Married since 1980, this lovely couple have proven that not unless you’ll give up will you lose your one true love.

According to reports, being married to Eddie Gutierrez was the dream of Cebuana, Annabelle Rama. Well I guess dreaming isn’t really that bad after all because they now have 6 handsome and beautiful children.

3. Kim Chiu and Xian Lim

Looking at the roster of ABS-CBN loveteams today, one pair that stands out is Xian Lim and Cebuana Kim Chiu.

This reel to real couple has been dominating the net by storm with their showing of love and affection to the public. I guess we all deserve one who’d show the world what it feels like to love and be loved too, right?

4. Kryz Uy-Young and Slater Young

This SKY (Slater Kryz Young) couple has been known for their travels. Slater, a graduate of PBB and Kryz, a fashion blogger and online influencer are both from Cebu.

They now have their famous SKYPOD, as what they term their humble abode and is expecting their first baby boy. Congratulations, both!

5. Kaye Abad and Paul Jake Castillo

Mr. & Mrs. Paul Jake Castillo have proven that love is always worth taking the risk. Paul Jake, a Cebuano entrepreneur rose to fame after PBB while Kaye is known for her acting prowess.

Both started off as friends and they never thought they’d end up together. Now, they have a wonderful son and we couldn’t wait to be witnessing more of their fitness journey photos online.

6. Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano

Cebuano Enrique Gil has been in a long-term with his reel and real-life partner, Liza Soberano. Both have admitted their relationship during an episode in Gandang Gabi Vice.

Liza and Quen have been dominating the internet with their beautiful and handsome faces. According to many, they’re both perfect for each other. All that we could ever hope for is for them to grow old together.

7. Isabel Oli and John Prats

After two weddings, Mr. & Mrs. Prats bore their first daughter who has grown to be such a beautiful girl.

Isabel, a beauty queen from Cebu rose to fame with her acting skills while John has been in the showbiz industry since hid childhood. Both have been so consistent in sharing the photos of their beautiful family online and we can’t help but feel happy for our fellow Cebuana’s newly-built family.

8. JK Labajo and Maureen Wroblewitz

Probably the youngest among all the couples enlisted, but never too young for love. Maureen is the first Filipina to win Asia’s Next Top Model while JK Labajo, was one of the talented teens who joined The Voice and was with Camp Kawayan.

Though both kept mum about their relationship until recently, JK and Maureen post photos of each other from time to time and we’re even happier to know that they’re both German. At least, they share something in common. Well, I guess it’s true after all, we all need a Cebuano/a.

The BEST-TASTING Lechon in Cebu

“Lechon! Lechon! Lechon mo diha.” The magic words we all want to hear.

Let’s admit it, there’s definitely no contest about it that the lechon in Cebu is hands-down the best and most delicious. This is because Cebu lechon is best known for its crunchy golden red skin and tender, juicy, flavorsome meat.

“Lechon” has already been considered as a national dish and has become a huge hit that gatherings, feasts, parties – or even a plain visit to Cebu will not be complete without having a taste of the finger-licking roasted suckling pig.

And there is definitely no need to fret where to find one because lechon is available nearly in all corners of the island. But, if you want the best-tasting ones that will satisfy your gastronomic cravings, make sure to drop by any of these places:

Rico’s Lechon

  • Price range: P650 good for 2 people (approx)
  • Contact number: (032) 260 – 2443
  • Operating hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Take-out orders start as early as 6AM)
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Location: Mactan Promenade, Airport Road, Ibo, Lapu-Lapu City

CnT Lechon

  • Ave. Price: P450-500 good for 2 people
  • Operating hours: 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Phone number: (032) 233 – 5339
  • Social:
  • BRANCHES:
    – North Reclamation Area (across SM): 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM
    – 1377 Rama Ave., Guadalupe, Cebu City: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
    – 4th floor, Food Choices, Ayala Center Cebu: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
    – SM Seaside City Cebu: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Alejo’s Lechon

  • Ave. Price: P300-500 per kilo
  • Phone number: (032) 261 – 9162 / (032) 261 – 8575
  • Location: El Salvador, Labangon, Cebu City

House of Lechon

houseoflechoncapitol-2
houseoflechoncapitol-3
  • Ave. Price: P900 good for 2 people
  • Operating hours: 10:00AM – 10:00 PM
  • Phone number: (032) 231 – 0958
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Branches:
    – Acacia Street, Kamputhaw, Cebu City: 9AM to 10PM
    – Verandah, Ground Floor, Robinsons Galleria: 10AM to 10PM
    – Lawaan, Talisay City (near MyBus Terminal): 9AM to 10PM

Cang’s Lechon

  • Ave. price: 300-500 per kilo (approx.)
  • Phone number: (032) 232 – 8899
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Location: 6D Sanson Road, Lahug, Cebu City

Tatang’s Boneless Lechon

  • Ave. Price: P250 good for 2 people
  • Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Phone number: (032) 316 4719
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Location: Wilson Street, Lahug, Cebu City

Ayer’s Lechon

cebuayerslechon-9
ayerslechon
ayerslechoncebu
  • Ave. Price: P185-250 good for 2 people
  • Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Location:
    – 3/F SM CITY CEBU -260-7438
    – SM CITY CEBU SUPERMARKET – 0922-471-8604
    – 3/F SKYPARK SM SEASIDE – 231-9781
    – MACTAN AIRPORT DOMESTIC DEPARTURE – 233-5600
    – G/F ELIZABETH MALL – 253-5553
    – GAISANO CAPITAL SOUTH – 253-2116
    – 2/F i2 BLGD. IT PARK – 0923-734-0022
    – SKYRISE 1 BLDG. IT PARK – 238-1525
    – THE MACTAN NEWTOWN (ALFRESCO – 232-1475
    – MANGO AVENUE – 266-5705
    – 3/F JCENTER MALL (FOOD COURT)
    – GATE 777 ACROSS CEBU COUNTRY CLUB, BANILAD ROAD CEBU CITY (MAIN OFFICE) – (032) 231-7615 / 0922-826-8133 / 0927-440-6891

Carcar Lechon

Carcar lechons are found inside the public market and are usually ready for take-out. You can, however, choose to dine in one of the carenderias nearby and pair it with puso (hanging rice).

  • Location: Carcar Public Market – 2-3 hours away from the city
  • Ave. price: P400 per kilo

 The national dish “lechon” or roasted pig, regardless of how you want to enjoy it: whole, belly only or by kilo, you can be 100% sure that there are high-quality ones in Cebu that will surely satisfy your cravings.

Cebu logs 35 new cases on March 12

On Saturday 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 12, 2022.

The whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and Cebu Province — recorded 35 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 55 new recoveries, and 0 new deaths. Cebu’s total active cases declined to 1,154 (from 1,174).

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 53,660 (+17 new)
– Total recoveries: 51,339 (+25 new)
– Total deaths: 1,676 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 645

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 17,024 (+2 new)
– Total recoveries: 16,460 (+0 new)
– Total deaths: 506 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 58

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 15,398 (+3 new)
– Total recoveries: 14,853 (+2 new)
– Total deaths: 493 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 52

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 46,100 (+13 new)
– Total recoveries: 42,912 (+28 new)
– Total deaths: 2,789 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 399

SUMMARY OF COVID-19 CASES IN CEBU:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 1,154 (from 1,174)
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 132,182 (+35 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 125,564 (+55 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 5,464 (+0 new)

A total of 1,412 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.

DOH-7 FULL REPORT (CENTRAL VISAYAS):

Get to Know Jollibee’s Tony Tan Caktiong: Rags to Riches Story

A Filipino who doesn’t know Jollibee must be living under a rock at this point.

This fast-food chain has become a part of our lives so much, it’s practically part of Filipino culture. But do you know who owns it?

Photo from Lauro Montellano Jr./ Malacañang Photo Bureau/PNA, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The man behind Jollibee is Tony Tan Caktiong. He is a Filipino billionaire businessman who is the founder and chairman of Jollibee Foods Corporation, and the co-chairman of DoubleDragon Properties.

Forbes Magazine have ranked Tony Tan Caktiong as the 9th richest man in the Philippines as of January 2021, with a net worth of $2.4 billion.

Personal Information

  • Born on January 5, 1953
  • 3rd of seven siblings
  • Chiang Kai Shek Highschool
  • University of Santo Tomas- Chemical Engineering
  • Chinese parents are from Fuijan, China
Photo from Forbes

Their whole family migrated here in the Philippines. Unlike the wealth that he has today, he had a humbling beginning.  Born from a cook who used to work at a Buddhist temple, he experienced hardships early in his life.

Their hardworking parents though introduced them to business young, letting them help out at their family’s restaurant business in Davao. A family restaurant indeed as him and his siblings did everything from washing dishes to bussing tables and serving customers.

From this, they were able to attend prestigious schools and later on Tony followed his family’s path in business by franchising the Magnolia Ice Cream House. At just 22 years old, he opened Cubao Ice Cream House and Quiapo Ice Cream House.

Photo from TeaHub

After his first venture in the food industry, he finally created Jollibee in 1978 after listening to the people who didn’t really want to eat ice cream all the time. So, they served fried chicken which we all know no as our most loved Jollibee Chicken Joy. Aside from that they also served hamburgers and pinoy-style spaghetti much like how it is now. There are over a thousand Jollibee outlets all over the Philippines with it popping everywhere and even in several countries around the world.

Imagine starting from that small to the giant that is now the Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC). JFC already owns Greenwich, Chowking, Mang Inasal, Manong Pepe’s, and Red Ribbon as well.

Best and Affordable Cars Under P1 Million You Can Buy in 2022

With most COVID-19 restrictions starting to ease up, more and more companies are mandating their employees to work back to office after almost two years of resorting to the work-from-home arrangement. With this change, some may find it difficult to commute again. Finding the best and affordable cars might be in your mind right now if you’re one of those having that dilemma. Here are some of the suggested auto mobiles that are under one million pesos.

1. Toyota Raize

Toyota Raize has been a recent hit among car enthusiasts because of its sleek design and spacious interior. It’s easy to drive platform has also been praised by car critics, noting its flexibility in urban and rural driving. With a powerful CVT engine, Raize is a serious contender for those who want a decent vehicle, either for work or leisure.

Photo from Toyota Official Website
Toyota Raize Exterior Feature | Photo from Toyota Official Website
Toyota Raize Interiro Feature | Photo from Toyota Official Website
Toyota Raize Performance Feature | Photo from Toyota Official Website

Suggested Retail Price Range: P746,000 – P1.031 million

Available Variants: Toyota Raize 1.2 E MT, Toyota Raize 1.2 E CVT, Toyota Raize 1.2 G CVT

Toyota Raize Variants | Photo from Toyota Official Website

2. Toyota Vios

The Vios has been a staple in many Philippine roads, and you got to hand it to this model because of its reliability and durability. With many variants to choose from, the Vios is certainly a good car to choose if this is your starting car. Newer models are noted for being significant improvements over older models without compromising its overall quality.

Photo from Toyota Official Website
Toyota Vios Exterior Feature | Photo from Toyota Official Website
Toyota Vios Interior Feature | Photo from Toyota Official Website
Toyota Vios Performance Feature | Photo from Toyota Official Website

Suggested Retail Price Range: P681,000 – P1.02 million

Available Variants: Toyota Vios 1.3 J MT, Toyota Vios 1.3 E MT, Toyota Vios 1.3 E CVT, Toyota Vios 1.5 G MT, Toyota Vios 1.5 G CVT

Toyota Vios Variants | Photo from Toyota Official Website
Toyota Vios Variants | Photo from Toyota Official Website

3. Honda Brio

Known for its sleek and chic design, the Honda Brio is Honda’s entry-level offering, perfect for newbie drivers. The latest small hatchback features smaller exterior proportions. But make no mistake, the deceptively large cabin inside is a great surprise for those who have chosen it as their starting car.

Honda Brio | Photo from Honda Official Website
Honda Brio Exterior Feature | Photo from Honda Official Website
Honda Brio Exterior Feature | Photo from Honda Official Website
Honda Brio Exterior Feature | Photo from Honda Official Website

Suggested Retail Price Range: P601,000 – P735,000

Available Variants: Honda Brio RS CVT, Honda Brio RS Black Top CVT

Honda Brio Variants | Photo from Honda Official Website

4. Kia Stonic

With an exterior design that has bagged many awards, taking one look at Kia Stonic proves that it was worthy to win such awards. Its modern and sleek design is perfect for any city-body who choose to fit in, either in a corporate setup or just want to gallivant around the city. Stylish, elegant and classy, the Stonic has a competitive engine that would stand out among the listed here.

Kia Stonic | Photo from Kia Official Website
Kia Stonic Features | Photo from Kia Official Website
Kia Stonic Interior Feature | Photo from Kia Official Website
Kia Stonic Safety Feature | Photo from Kia Official Website

Suggested Retail Price Range: P765,000 – P955,000

Available Variants: Kia Stonic LX MT, Kia Stonic LX AT, Kia Stonic EX AT

5. Honda City

The Honda City is a classic when it comes to subcompact cars, with production that began as early as 1981. Today, the city is still roving around the Philippine roads, with newer models managing to impress and stand out among the rest. The Japanese technology incorporated in modern Honda City models prove to be a good factor for newbies in buying this one.

Honda City | Photo from Honda Official Website
Honda City Exterior Features | Photo from Honda Official Website
Honda City Exterior Features | Photo from Honda Official Website
Honda City Exterior Features | Photo from Honda Official Website

Suggested Retail Price Range: P848,000 – P1.058 million

Available Variants: Honda City 1.5 S MT, Honda City 1.5 V CVT, Honda City 1.5 S CVT

Honda City Variants | Photo from Honda Official Website

6. Toyota Wigo

Known as the trusted and ultimate starting car for many Filipinos, settling for a Wigo never fails as it is budget-friendly yet with a very durable and reliable overall design. Known for its simplicity and convenience, the Toyota Wigo is a good purchase especially if this is your first car purchase.

Photo from Toyota Official Website
Toyota Wigo Exterior Feature | Photo from Toyota Official Website
Toyota Wigo Interior Feature | Photo from Toyota Official Website
Toyota Wigo Comfort Feature | Photo from Toyota Official Website

Suggested Retail Price Range: P568,000 – P700,000

Available Variants: Toyota Wigo 1.0 TRD S AT

Toyota Wigo Available Variant | Photo from Toyota Official Website

7. Suzuki Ertiga

A seven-seater MPV with an affordable price, some say that settling for an Ertiga is definitely a steal especially for families with kids. Many consider Suzuki Ertiga as a decent choice for the modern Filipino family who can afford to buy a car – dropping the kids to school and going to work on one trip.

Suzuki Ertiga | Photo from Suzuki Official Website
Suzuki Ertiga Exterior Feature | Photo from Suzuki Official Website
Suzuki Ertiga Interior Feature | Photo from Suzuki Official Website
Suzuki Ertiga Interior Feature | Photo from Suzuki Official Website

Suggested Retail Price Range: P763,000 – P923,000

Available Variants: Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 GA MT, Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 GL MT, Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 GL AT

Suzuki Ertiga Color Variants | Photo from Suzuki Official Website

8. Geely Coolray

With a design that shouts confidence, intelligence and fashionable, the Geely Coolray is definitely here to bring back the fun in driving. Geely has employed over 500 people working on design from all over the world in five key studios: Shanghai, Coventry, Gothenburg, Barcelona and California, not to mention their technology matches this intricate design in terms of efficiency.

Geely Coolray | Photo from Geely Official Website
Geely Coolray Exterior Feature | Photo from Geely Official Website
Geely Coolray Exterior Feature | Photo from Geely Official Website
Geely Coolray Exterior Feature | Photo from Geely Official Website

Suggested Retail Price Range: P978,000 – P1.197 million

Available Variants: Geely Coolray Comfort, Geely Coolray Premium, Geely Coolray Sport

Note: SRP ranges are taken from zigwheels.ph

Cebu logs 32 new cases on March 11

On Friday 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 11, 2022.

The whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and Cebu Province — recorded 32 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 102 new recoveries, and 5 new deaths. Cebu’s total active cases declined to 1,174 (from 1,244).

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 53,643 (+13 new)
– Total recoveries: 51,314 (+29 new)
– Total deaths: 1,676 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 653

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 17,023 (+4 new)
– Total recoveries: 16,461 (+9 new)
– Total deaths: 506 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 56

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 15,395 (+2 new)
– Total recoveries: 14,851 (+22 new)
– Total deaths: 493 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 51

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 46,087 (+13 new)
– Total recoveries: 42,884 (+42 new)
– Total deaths: 2,789 (+3 new)
– Active cases: 414

SUMMARY OF COVID-19 CASES IN CEBU:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 1,174 (from 1,244)
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 132,148 (+32 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 125,510 (+102 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 5,464 (+5 new)

A total of 1,332 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.

DOH-7 FULL REPORT (CENTRAL VISAYAS):

Cebuano Market Helper “Kargador” tops ME Board exam

Mark Allen Armenion, 24-year-old who ranked 2nd in the recent Mechanical Engineering board exam, was in fact a market helper or kargador.

Hailing from Warwick Barracks, Carbon Market, Cebu City, Mark’s story is a true tale of perseverance as he faced a series of life’s hardships and emerged victorious.

Photo from The Professional Regulation Commission

He said he even thought that he won’t graduate because of all the hardships financially and in the family. He was constantly absent at school and got a failure in elementary and even high school.

He is the youngest of 4 children. His mother Marites Armenion, sells “uling” in Carbon while his father, Rene Armenion, works as a cook for lechon but his parents are separated.

Photo from Mark Allen Armenion

Education Background

Elementary: Mandaue City Central Elementary school (failed in 3rd grade)

High school: Mandaue City Comprehensive national Highschool (Failed in 3rd year)

                       : Tipolo National High School (Graduate)

Awards:

  • Best in math (Highschool)
  • National Quiz Champion in PSME Quiz Bowl 2018
  • Regional Quiz Champion in PSME Quiz Bowl 2018 & 2019
  • CESAFI math quiz bowl champion 2018 & 2019

While still a student in elementary and high school, he was also a market helper or kargador in Carbon so that he could earn a living.

He then attended the University of Cebu – Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue (UC-LM) and was a working student in his 2nd year.

But another trial came by as their house in Mandaue city was demolished which forced them to move back to Carbon. With the change in location, he changed schools as well and attended UC-main.

His family was very supportive no matter how much debt they have already.

And though he was very smart and has good grades, he didn’t get the title of Cum Laude as he was a transferee.

He admitted that he was aiming for the first place in the ME licensure exams and was a little bit disappointed as he prepared for almost 2 years for it.

Photo from Mark Allen Armenion

Armenion ranks 2nd with a score of 95.70 percent while the top 1 from VSU Baybay City had a score of 96.60, which is just a point away.

He was also honest enough to say that the cash incentives given to UC topnotchers were his driving force but his main inspiration was his parents.

“That was my mindset during my college days. Para if incase di nako ma beat, sure jud na mo land ko sa top list. Driving force to nakong premyo sa UC, and akong main inspiration is akoa jud parents,”

Mark Allen Armenion