CEBU CITY – For three sun-filled days from July 25 to 27, Ayala Center Cebu became ground zero for tropical wanderlust as Sunlight Air’s Grand Travel Fest (GTF) brought energy, music, and massive travel deals right into the heart of the city.
Photo from Sugbo.ph
Celebrating the airline’s 6th anniversary, the event drew crowds of excited travelers, families, and influencers eager to catch the legendary ₱8 one-way base fares from Cebu to destinations like Coron, Siargao, and more.
Photo from Sugbo.phPhoto from Sugbo.ph
A Festival, Not Just a Fair
More than just discounts, GTF felt like a summer party. Guests were welcomed by tropical-themed booths, upbeat island music, and interactive games that gave the event a real festival feel.
Photo from Sugbo.ph
Live performances, a variety of fun games, giveaways, and surprise raffles kept the energy high, while enthusiastic staff helped guests book on-the-spot Fly + Stay + Dine packages at some of the Philippines’ top resorts.
Photo from Sugbo.ph
Exclusive Travel Perks
BPI and GCash stations were around with attendees taking advantage of bonus discounts and free baggage offers, while nearby booths offered up to 60% off on select hotels and travel essentials.
Photo from Sugbbo.phPhoto from Sugbo.phPhoto from Sugbo.ph
Attendees also got first dibs on discounted stays at Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort, and exclusive travel insurance bundles, making planning a trip feel effortless.
Photo from Sugbo.ph
Sunlight Air turned a simple promo into a vibrant celebration of travel. For everyone who joined, the Grand Travel Fest wasn’t just about booking flights, it was about getting inspired for their next island adventure.
Cebu offers a surprisingly diverse mix of running spots, from scenic coastal paths to urban loops and mountain trails. Here’s a curated guide to the best running areas in Cebu, tailored for different styles and fitness levels:
Urban & Accessible Running Spots
Cebu Business Park (CBP)
CBP is known for its clean, well-maintained roads and wide sidewalks, making it safe for long sprints or leisurely jogs. It’s centrally located just behind Ayala Center Cebu making it easy to access by foot, car, or public transport.
Photo by Cebu Business Park
Landscaped paths and open spaces offer a refreshing contrast to the city’s bustle, with tree-lined sidewalks and grassy fields perfect for warm-ups or cooldowns. The terrain is flat and pedestrian-friendly, ideal for both beginners and seasoned runners. The place is ideal for early morning or evening runs with minimal traffic and good lighting. Popular among professionals and casual joggers for its peaceful vibe.
Fuente Osmeña Circle
A short, circular path in the heart of Cebu City, Fuente Osmeña Circle is perfect for warm-ups, cool-downs, and fast jogs. With benches lining it and trees providing shade, it is a peaceful, easily accessible area for walking and relaxing.
Photo by Wikipedia
The central grass is perfect for individual stretches or group exercise, and it’s conveniently close to shopping centers, restaurants, and jeepney stations. peak activity from 4 a.m. Around 6 a.m., the park attracts a constant flow of joggers who appreciate its refreshing air and social setting.
Scenic & Coastal Routes
Il Corso Seaside Walkway
Photo from the Archives
The Il Corso Lifestyle Mall area features a scenic coastal jogging path that runs along the reclaimed South Road Properties (SRP). While the approach via CSCR Road may be urban and busy, the waterfront section itself is peaceful and breezy, offering panoramic sea views and a clean, paved loop of about 3 km. This route is popular among fitness enthusiasts for its accessibility and relaxing ambiance, especially during sunset runs.
CCLEX Bridge Pedestrian Lane
Opened in 2022, the Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) is one of the most iconic running routes in the country. Spanning 8.5 km, with a total route of up to 11.5 km one-way including access paths, this bridge offers breathtaking views of the Cebu Strait and the city skyline.
Photo by Wikipedia
The pedestrian lane is wide, well-maintained, and ideal for long-distance runners or those training for marathons. Early morning runs here are especially rewarding, with sunrise casting golden light across the water.
Trail & Mountain Running
Busay Hills (JY Square to Gaslamp Food Park)
A favorite for uphill training with panoramic views and fresh mountain air. Great for cardio and mental resets especially during sunrise. For those craving elevation and fresh air, Busay offers stunning mountain views and crisp breezes.
Photo from Josh Almonte
It’s a favorite for endurance training and mental resets, with natural terrain that challenges the body and clears the mind.
Photo from Josh Almonte
Pamutan Grasslands & Spartan Trail
Located north of Cebu, these trails offer rolling hills and forested paths. They’re perfect for trail runners seeking solitude and elevation gain.
Photo from the Archives
Tips for Cebu Runners
The best time to jog is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and traffic. Wearing light, breathable clothing and durable shoes for humid conditions helps you feel more comfortable on your run. Remember to stick to well-lit areas, hydrate often, and consider running with a buddy or group.
So when you decide to go for a run, remember the tips and take your pick from the list.
Photo booths in Cebu have evolved from a party essential to a must-have experience in a city that is teeming with creativity, culture, and lively events. Photobooths throughout Cebu, from slick, contemporary studios to oddball themed sets at gatherings, are revolutionizing the way we take pictures. Whether you’re at a wedding, birthday party, business function, or just stopping by a hip cafe, these pop-up photo places instantly add flare and happiness to any occasion.
Photo from Freepik
Pop And Pose
360 Events Cebu
Screengrab from 360 Events Cebu
Offers different variants of modern booths that include a 360 video booth, RetroBooth, Magazine Booth, London Booth, Vogue Booth, and AI Face Swap. Remembered by the sleek setups, instant digital sharing, and premium backdrops. Their setups are sleek, fully digital, and social media-ready, with instant sharing via QR code, Airdrop, SMS, or email. Packages range with options for unlimited sessions, LED lighting, and professional attendants. Ideal for luxury events and stylish parties.
A highly rated photobooth for service quality and reliability. C&J offers 360 videobooths, onsite studio booths with prints, and classic photobooth setups. Known for reliable service and high-quality output, they’re a favorite for birthdays, school events, and intimate gatherings. With a 4.8/5 rating on Facebook, they’re praised for friendly staff and clean layouts.
Location: Block 1 Lot 1 Casa Rosita Homes, Paseo Arcenas, Cebu City, Philippines
By Car: Drive to Banawa via V. Rama or M. Velez Street, turn onto R. Duterte Street, then enter Paseo Arcenas. Inside Arcenas Estate, follow signs to Casa Rosita Homes, Block 1 Lot 1
By Commute: Ride a jeepney or 1-R multicab bound for Banawa from downtown Cebu (like Colon or Fuente). Get off at R. Duterte Street, near Paseo Arcenas. From there, walk or take a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) up the road to Arcenas Estate. Enter the gate and follow directions to Casa Rosita Homes.
Photoline SM City Cebu
Conveniently located inside a major mall, Photoline offers walk-in photobooth services and instant prints. Perfect for spontaneous shoots, mall-based events, or quick keepsakes during shopping trips.
Location: SM Cebu 3rd Floor Beside Department store.North Reclamation Area. Cebu City
By Car: Navigate SM Cebu via Waze or GoogleMaps
By Commute: Ride a jeepney like 01K, 03Q, 10H, or 04L from downtown Cebu directly to SM. You can also take an air-conditioned MyBus from terminals near Fuente, IT Park, or Parkmall. Both options drop you off or near the mall’s main entrance.
A real-life Pokémon adventure is finally happening
Big news for every 90s kid and certified Pokémon fan: Japan is set to open the world’s first permanent Pokémon theme park in Tokyo by spring 2026. Named PokePark Kanto, this much-awaited attraction will rise inside Yomiuri Land, one of Tokyo’s largest amusement parks.
Photo from GoNintendo
This is not just another pop-up or limited-time installation, this is the real deal. For the first time ever, fans will get to experience the Pokémon world in an actual physical space, complete with themed areas, rides, and exclusive merchandise.
What to Expect at PokePark Kanto
Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization
Park’s Two Main Zones
The Pokémon Forest
A spacious, nature-inspired area designed to feel like the wild zones from the game. Visitors can walk through a lush environment that brings the early adventure vibes of the Pokémon series to life.
Shops and Rides Area
This section will feature interactive attractions, themed shops, and rides. While exact details haven’t been revealed yet, fans can expect creative experiences based on iconic Pokémon.
From exploring the “tall grass” to grabbing rare collectibles, the park is expected to deliver a fully immersive experience.
Perfect for Your Next Japan Trip
Planning a future barkada trip or family vacation? You might want to schedule it around spring 2026. PokePark Kanto is expected to be a major tourist magnet, ideal for fans, collectors, gamers, and anyone curious about the Pokémon craze.
Photo from Modern Design Furniture
With Tokyo just a few hours away by plane from Cebu, this theme park could easily be the highlight of your next international adventure.
Photo from GettyImage
Other Information
Location: Yomiuri Land, Tokyo
Opening: Spring 2026
Size: 2.6 hectares (6.4 acres)
Highlights: Pokémon forest, themed rides, merchandise shops, immersive zones
Ready to catch ‘em all — in real life?
Stay tuned for more updates as the park’s opening gets closer. PokePark Kanto is not just a trip, it’s a throwback, a fantasy, and a once-in-a-lifetime adventure rolled into one.
Jollibee, the beloved Filipino fast food chain, has once again clinched the top spot for best fast food fried chicken in the United States, according to USA Today’s 10Best article. For the second year running, the Filipino pride has surpassed big-name American favorites, securing its place at the top of the list.
Photo from Jollibee USA
From its humble beginnings in the Philippines to becoming an international sensation, Jollibee continues to impress diners with its signature dishes, such as Chickenjoy, golden, crispy, and famously juicy fried chicken paired with silky gravy and hearty sides.
Outfrying the Competition
Photo from Jollibee USA
In the latest USA Today poll, Jollibee edged out major chicken players in the US like Popeyes, Chick-fil-A, and KFC. Taking second place was Guatemalan chain Pollo Campero, followed by Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken. Other contenders like Church’s Texas Chicken, Krispy Krunchy Chicken, and Golden Chick rounded out the list.
The Global Rise of Filipino Flavor
With over 103 stores in North America and more than 1,700 locations worldwide, Jollibee is now the largest and fastest-growing Asian restaurant company globally. It continues to expand its footprint in cities like New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, London, Milan, Dubai, and more, bringing Filipino flavor to a truly global audience.
Photo from Jollibee USA
Jollibee’s presence in the US is more than a business move, it’s a cultural milestone. It represents a fusion of Filipino heritage and global appeal, introducing traditional tastes like fried chicken with rice and gravy, sweet-style spaghetti, and buttered corn to new markets.
Photo from Jollibee USA
A Win for Every Pinoy
Jollibee’s consecutive recognition in a major US poll is not just about food, it’s a win for Filipino pride on an international stage. As it continues to break barriers and reach new audiences, it carries with it the essence of Filipino joy, community, and comfort.
Photo from Jollibee USA
In a world where fast food is abundant, Jollibee’s success story proves that authenticity, quality, and heart can make a brand stand out, even in the most competitive markets.
Deep in the southern mountains of Cebu lies a road that demands respect: Manipis Cliff. As its name suggests, nipis means “thin” or “narrow” in Cebuano, this winding stretch cuts through rugged cliffs and thick forest, connecting the cities of Toledo and Talisay. More than just a road, it’s a ride through nature’s raw beauty and danger.
Where History Meets Terrain
Built during the World War II era, Manipis Road began as a military access route carved into the mountain by engineers. Today, it remains a functional road for locals, but over time, it has gained a reputation as one of Cebu’s most thrilling mountain passes.
Twisting uphill through cliffs and drops, the road gives a clear message: this is not your average drive.
What You’ll See Along the Way
Despite its intimidating layout, Manipis offers stunning views and peaceful nature spots.
Here are some of its highlights:
• Minglanilla Man-Made Forest – Rows of tall pine, mahogany, and bamboo trees line this refreshing green corridor.
• Roadside Waterfalls – Especially after the rain, the hills reveal gentle waterfalls that cool the air and add charm.
• Campinsa Highlands – This quiet camping area, often called “Little Switzerland,” is known for its cool breeze and relaxing views.
These quiet corners give travelers a chance to pause and admire the natural side of Cebu far from city noise.
The Beauty Comes with Risks
While the scenery is rewarding, it’s important to recognize that Manipis Cliff is not built for casual or careless driving.
Photo by Samsam Gullas
The road is known for being:
• Extremely Narrow – In many areas, there’s barely enough space for two cars to pass. Larger vehicles struggle with the tight corners.
• Prone to Landslides – During or after rain, landslides can block or damage the road, sometimes trapping vehicles or causing long closures.
• Slippery When Wet – Rain turns the surface muddy or slick, making driving or biking difficult and dangerous.
• Poorly Lit – There are no streetlights, so nighttime travel is strongly discouraged.
• Limited Cell Signal – In some areas, mobile reception is weak or nonexistent, making emergencies harder to manage.
• Far from Help – The nearest hospitals or police stations are far from the cliffside. If something goes wrong, help may not arrive quickly.
Because of these risks, officials often close the road during heavy storms or after landslides.
Photo by Samsam Gullas
Tips for a Safe Visit
If you still want to explore Manipis Road, here’s how to do it safely:
• Visit in the morning when roads are dry and visibility is clear.
• Use a reliable vehicle with strong brakes and good tires.
• Let someone know your route before you go.
• Bring your supplies, especially water and snacks.
• Avoid traveling after dark or during bad weather.
Caution is not optional, it’s essential.
Manipis Cliff is not just a road, it’s an experience. It tests your focus and patience while offering peaceful escapes along the way. For some, it’s a path to challenge. For others, it’s a quiet reminder of how wild and beautiful Cebu’s mountains can be.
But whether you’re passing through for the view or taking the slow ride for the thrill, one thing is certain: Manipis demands your respect.
How To Get There?
Location: Manipis Rd., Toledo City
By Car: From Cebu City, drive south to Talisay via N. Bacalso Avenue, then turn right near Tabunok to enter Manipis Road. Follow the Mountain Road toward Toledo, using Google Maps or Waze for guidance. Drive with caution, it’s steep and narrow.
By Commute: Take a jeepney or bus to Talisay City, then ride a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) or local jeep going up Manipis Road toward Toledo. Ask locals at Tabunok Market or the terminal for the right rides
Mayana Peak in Naga City, Cebu is a lesser-known hiking destination that offers a rugged, off-the-grid adventure for those who crave raw nature and panoramic views. It’s tucked away in Barangay Mayana, a quiet upland community with an elevation of around 437 meters above sea level.
Photo from Unsplash
Mayana Peak is located in Barangay Mayana, Naga City, Cebu. It’s accessible via habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) from the highway, followed by a steep trek through forested trails and local farmland. The barangay itself is known for its scenic ridges and limestone formations, making it a natural playground for hikers.
The Trail to the Top
The trail to Mayana Peak is challenging, with loose soil, thorny plants, and dense vegetation, ideal for intermediate or seasoned hikers or those seeking a thrill. Near the summit, there’s a small cave locally known as Lapos-Lapos Cave though several caves in Cebu share this name and this adds a spelunking twist to the hike. The peak offers views of Balirong Ridge, parts of Negros Island, and the surrounding verdant mountains of Naga.
Photo from Unsplash
It’s not a commercialized site with no formal entrance fees or facilities, though some guides may request a modest donation. You’ll need a local guide, often sourced through the barangay hall or community contacts.
Before You Trek, Read This!
Barangay Mayana is listed by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Central Visaya (MGB-7) as having moderate to high landslide risk during 2018. So avoid hiking during or after rains due to potential landslide risks in the area.
Photo from Unsplash
Cultural & Community Notes
Mayana Peak is part of a growing interest in grassroots eco-tourism in Naga, with locals slowly opening up to hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Photo from Unsplash
The barangay has a population of around 1,460 residents as of 2020, and is regarded as one of the more peaceful and welcoming upland communities in Naga.
Photo from Google Maps
Tips for Visitors
Headlamps, gloves, and sturdy shoes are essential. Remember to pack your own food and water as there are no vendors or stores nearby. The trails often pass through private farmland and community spaces so also be mindful and respectful when passing. Hire a guide not just for safety, but to help navigate the unmarked paths and share local stories thus it is best to reach out ahead of time to secure a guide.
Mayana Peak is perfect for those who want to step off the beaten path and experience Cebu’s wild side.
How to get there
Exact Location:
By Commute: From Cebu City, head to the South Bus Terminal and board a bus bound for Toledo, Carcar, or Sibonga. Ask to be dropped off in Naga City. Alternatively, jeepneys from Bulacao or Pardo also travel to Naga. Once in Naga proper, hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to Barangay Mayana. Most hikers begin their trek at the basketball court near the highway, locally known as ‘Eskina Mayana’ — a familiar landmark and common jump-off point. It’s best to coordinate with barangay officials ahead of time to secure a guide or get updated trail conditions.
By Car: Drive south from Cebu City via Natalio Bacalso Avenue (N. Bacalso), passing through Minglanilla and San Fernando until you reach Naga. Look for signs pointing toward Balirong or Lutopan, which serve as upland reference points. Use Waze or Google Maps and search for “Balirong, Naga” or “Barangay Mayana.” From the highway, turn toward Sitio Panas and follow the road until you reach the basketball court — again, the usual jump-off site. Locals are generally helpful and can assist with directions if needed.
Cebu, Philippines — Clinica Prime takes a meaningful leap in its mission of “Wellness For Life” as it officially becomes a PhilHealth Konsulta (Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama) provider. With this new accreditation, the clinic strengthens its promise to deliver primary healthcare that’s not only accessible and affordable but rooted in compassion and preventive care. The move marks a significant step in making everyday wellness a reality for more Filipino families, especially in communities where consistent, quality medical support matters most.
No frills, no fluff, just healthcare that works for real people, where and when they need it.
Healthcare Where It Matters
Clinica Prime now welcomes PhilHealth Konsulta beneficiaries in three convenient Cebu locations: Oakridge Business Park in Mandaue, Orosia Food Park in Consolacion, and City Time Square in Lapu-Lapu.
With this setup, members can register at any branch and access services at whichever clinic is most accessible—a big help for working families, seniors, or patients juggling daily responsibilities.
Once registered, patients are entitled to:
• Free, unlimited primary care consultations
• Laboratory and diagnostic tests, based on DOH clinical guidelines
• Essential medicines, following DOH-approved treatment protocols
This means less waiting, fewer expenses, and more chances for early treatment.
Photo by Clinica Prime
“At Clinica Prime, we believe that healthcare should never be a privilege but a right,” says Dr. Bryan Albert Lim, President and Chief Medical Officer. “Becoming an accredited Konsulta provider allows us to live out this belief by giving more people access to quality care, regardless of background or status.”
A Human Approach to Health
In a healthcare system often overwhelmed by demand, Clinica Prime is aiming to create a more patient-centered experience. From the moment you register, the focus isn’t just on your symptoms, it’s on your overall wellness.
Photo by Clinica Prime
Every clinic is staffed by a compassionate, multidisciplinary team, backed by modern facilities and a streamlined process. For many patients, this means care that’s not only free, but also personal.
“The Konsulta Program is more than a government benefit. It’s an opportunity to build lasting relationships with our patients,” says Rocsan Bacalan, Director of Sales and Services. “We’re here not only to register patients but to guide them every step of the way with care, continuity, and compassion.”
Taking the First Step
The PhilHealth Konsulta Package, part of the Universal Health Care Act, is open to all members and their qualified dependents. Registration is simple: visit any Clinica Prime branch and complete your First Patient Encounter (FPE) to get started.
Photo by Clinica Prime
This first step sets up your medical profile and gives you access to your full Konsulta benefits. No need to navigate complex systems or deal with unclear instructions, Clinica Prime helps make the process easy and clear.
Beyond the Basics
Clinica Prime’s role doesn’t end with Konsulta. The clinics also offer diagnostics, health packages, and upcoming wellness programs designed to support everyday health needs, from regular checkups to proactive screenings.
It’s a step toward a bigger goal and that is to make wellness a part of daily life, not just a reaction to illness.
Your health matters. Your choice matters. Choose Clinica Prime.
Other Information
Visit bit.ly/CPCIKonsulta or scan the QR code to begin.
Trade the splash zone for the silence and find Kawasan’s hidden heartbeat.
The Kawasan Falls is a trek upstream to the source of the Matutinao River that presents a more immersive adventure, which unlike the crowded pools of Kawasan, this journey draws hikers, canyoneers, and nature lovers who prefer raw exploration. Early mornings are the ideal for hiking as they offer cooler temperatures and fewer distractions. The route follows the river backward, over boulders, crossing streams, and navigating jungle paths until reaching Kabukalan Spring, the hidden origin of the Matutinao.
Rock and Roam
Your adventure begins near Kawasan Falls’ first tier, where most visitors stop. The trail ascends to quieter, less-explored sections. The second and third tiers are serene, but the real challenge starts past them, narrower paths, steeper climbs, and unmarked stretches, and along the way, mini-waterfalls and secluded pools offer rest stops, while the jungle canopy provides shade.
Photo from Kawasan Falls Canyoneering’s Facebook PagePhoto from Kawasan Falls Canyoneering’s Facebook Page
The final reward is Kabukalan Spring, a crystal-clear water that bubbles from underground, untouched by commercialization. The spots also serve as the starting point for every canyoneering tour, but trekkers often stay here, as they soak in the tranquility before heading back.
Eco Logic in Motion
The Matutinao River is among Cebu’s cleanest waterways, which is sustained by strict environmental protections. Kabukalan Spring source feeds the iconic Kawasan Falls, which powers both tourism and local economies.
Photo from Kawasan Falls Canyoneering’s Facebook Page
Even though the lower sections thrive on visitor activity, the upper river remains a pristine sanctuary, as the conservation efforts, led by local groups and authorities, ensure the ecosystem stays healthy through regular clean-ups and sustainable tourism practices. This balance between adventure and preservation makes the trek not just a physical challenge for people, but also a lesson in having responsible travel.
Photo from Kawasan Falls Canyoneering’s Facebook PagePhoto from Kawasan Falls Canyoneering’s Facebook Page
‘Flora’ the Explorer
The river’s life cycle is revealed through the trek, from gentle springs to roaring falls. The surrounding forest is home to native plants like bamboo, wild orchids, and ferns, while freshwater fish dart through the clear currents.
The water’s clarity is a testament to its minimal human interference upstream, which makes the place much more scenic and attention-grabbing.It is advisable to bring sturdy footwear and a knowledgeable guide, as well as hydration, especially during the rainy season when water levels rise unpredictably. For those who take on the journey, they gain a deeper appreciation for Cebu’s hidden wilderness.
How To Get There?
Exact Location: Barangay Matutinao, Badian, Cebu
By Car: Take the main highway heading south via Cebu South Road, passing through towns like Minglanilla, San Fernando, Carcar, and Barili. Follow road signs leading to Moalboal and continue until reaching the town of Badian. Use navigation apps such as Google Maps or Waze for real-time directions and traffic updates. The drive typically takes around three to four hours, depending on road conditions. Look out for signage or local guides near Matutinao Church or the Kawasan Falls jump-off point.
By Commute: Head to the Cebu South Bus Terminal and take a bus bound for Badian. Inform the conductor that you are getting off at Matutinao in Badian, near the entrance to Kawasan Falls. The bus ride passes through multiple municipalities and usually takes around four hours. Once dropped off along the highway, it’s a short walk to the registration area and the trail leading to the falls and the Matutinao River trek.
Trekking to the source of the Matutinao River isn’t just about reaching a destination but it’s also about experiencing Cebu in its raw form. Away from the crowds and noise, you get to see where the river truly begins. It’s a reminder of how important it is to protect places like this, and how meaningful it can be to slow down, listen to nature, and just appreciate the beauty that’s still out there, waiting to be explored.
Tripadvisor. (n.d.). MATUTINAO RIVER (2025) All You Should Know BEFORE You Go (w/ Reviews). https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/Attraction_Review-g294261-d1774009-Reviews-Matutinao_River-Cebu_Island_Visayas.html
On August 2, 2027, a rare eclipse will turn day into night for 6 minutes. The sun’s corona will shine as the moon blocks its light. The best views are of North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. A must-see event for skywatchers!
