Ah, New Year’s Eve! The grand finale of the year, a night filled with excitement, parties, and often, a hefty dose of pressure to celebrate in style. But let’s face it—sometimes the best way to welcome the new year is with a cozy blanket, a comfy bed, and a solid sleep-in session. If you’re feeling more “snooze” than “celebrate,” you’re definitely not alone!
Photo from Pexels
The Case for Comfy Celebrations
Let’s be real: adulthood can be overwhelming. Between work, family commitments, and endless to-do lists, the holiday season might feel like your only chance to catch up on some much-needed rest. So, if your idea of a perfect New Year’s celebration involves snuggling up and dozing off, go for it! It’s not about hating socializing or rejecting invitations; it’s about prioritizing your well-being and making choices that feel right for you.
Photo from Pexels
Embrace the Power of “Me Time”
Who says you need a wild party to celebrate? There are plenty of ways to spend the New Year that allow you to recharge and reflect. Here are some ideas to make your night-in feel special, according to me:
Reflect and Journal
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Grab a pen and a piece of paper—no new journal needed! Reflect on the past year: your highs, lows, unexpected surprises, and lessons learned. Let those feelings flow onto the page even if you dislike your handwriting. When you’re done, fold it up, seal it in an envelope, and stash it in your favorite spot. Come next New Year’s Eve, you’ll have a treasure trove of memories to look back on; whether you can read it properly or not!
Tackle the Dust Bunnies
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Yes, it’s time for some general cleaning! You might be surprised at how satisfying it can be to dust off that top shelf or reorganize your space. It’s a great way to start the year fresh—plus, you’ll feel accomplished and cozy in your tidy surroundings!
Create Your Own Charcuterie Board (or Order One!)
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Why not treat yourself to a delicious grazing board IN BED? Get creative and whip up a spread of your favorite snacks. But, if the thought of cutting up cheeses, arranging chocolates, or even just finding a board to put the ingredients in feels too tiring, don’t hesitate to order one online! Pair it with your favorite wine and enjoy your feast while lounging in your PJs with your favorite sitcom on.
People Watching—The Real-Life Edition
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Open your window, breathe in the fresh air, and watch the world go by. There’s something oddly soothing about observing the hustle and bustle of life outside. If it gets too chilly or you start to feel sleepy, just crawl back into bed—it’s your celebration after all!
So, as the clock strikes midnight, whether you’re snuggled under your blankets or dreaming away, know that you’re celebrating in your own way. Cheers to a fantastic year ahead—one nap at a time!
Liam Payne and his family will be getting the justice they deserve…
On Monday, the Argentina Justice Department shared to the media that they have prosecuted five suspects for the death of the One Direction star, Liam Payne, which included his “friend.”
Liam Payne’s Fall to Death
He fell unconsciously, and it was a preventable death, if he did not have the drugs in his system. Upon further investigation into Liam’s fall, it was concluded that there were individuals to be pointed at for his unfortunate circumstance, and these are their names:
Rogelio “Roger” Nores, an Argentinian businessman and Liam’s friend, has been charged with negligent homicide.
Braian Paiz, a hotel waiter, has been charged with supplying narcotics for payment.
Ezequiel Pereyra, also a hotel staff member, faces the same charge as Paiz.
Esteban Grassi, the hotel’s chief receptionist, has been charged with manslaughter.
Gilda Martin, the head of security, will also face a manslaughter charge.
Photo of Rogelio “Roger” Nores via ForbesPhoto of Braian Paiz
Liam’s case is not only common in the world of Hollywood, but anywhere. And as we get to know more and more about what transpired, we can only hope for one thing: that his soul rests in peace as justice is served.
Kanang makaingon sad ka ba nga “mura jud kag animal!”
We all have a little wild side in us, and our language reflects that! In Bisaya, there are some playful terms inspired by animals that capture human behaviors perfectly, such as the following:
Iring-Iring
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This term describes the flirty dance between two people who are interested in each other but haven’t quite made things official. It’s like the playful way cats flirt before deciding to be friends or more.
Itoy-Itoy
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Think of a puppy trying to win your heart. Itoy-itoy is when someone puts themselves in a lower position to seek affection or approval from someone else. It’s all about that sweet, submissive charm!
Minanok
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Ever notice how babies and chickens sometimes doze off with their eyes half-closed? That’s what minanok is all about. It’s that state of sleep where you’re not quite out, still keeping a little watch on the world.
Kigwa
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If you’ve ever seen a worm wriggling around, you’ll get the picture with what the term kigwa means. It describes someone who can’t sit still, always squirming and moving about, just like our squirmy little friends in the dirt.
Kabay-an
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This term captures the essence of riding. Whether it’s on a horse or something else, kabay-an refers to the act of riding on something, enjoying the experience, just like a cowboy on a trusty horse.
These Bisaya terms not only add color to our conversations but also remind us of the playful ways we express ourselves.
Ending the year isn’t complete without some juicy drama involving crime
Pool via Reuters
Luigi Mangione is a twenty-six year old suspect in the fatal shooting of UnitedHeathcare CEO Brian Thompson earlier this month—appeared in New York court Monday morning and pleaded not guilty of the eleven charges related to the shooting, including first degree murder in furtherance of terrorism.
THE UNITEDHEALTH CEO’S ASSASINATION
Pool via Reuters
Brian Thompson was the CEO of the health insurance division of the $550 billion in the UnitedHealth Group and was in New York city for an investor’s meeting. He was shot from behind just before 7 a.m. on December 4 outside of the New York Hilton Midtown—where the meeting was being held—and was hit in the back and right calf, after the suspect fled the area on foot and on an electric bike. Thompson, a Minnesota resident, served as the chief executive since April 2021 and had been with UnitedHealth group since 2004. A video of the suspect showed the suspect walking out behind Thompson—who did not have any security detail—before firing multiple times.
Prior to Mangione’s arrest, the police believed that the shooting was “a brazen attack” and searched New York city before saying that the suspect had left the city in a bus. Paulette Thompson, Thompson’s wife, told NBC News that there had been some threats but didn’t provide any details on what the threats were. Police have released several photos of the suspected shooter on Wednesday, after searching for the gunmen by utilizing diving teams in Central Park, flying helicopters, searching through security cameras in the area, maintaining drones and using dogs.
WHO IS THIS “TOO HOT FOR PRISON” CRIMINAL?
Pool via Reuters
The final known residence of Maryland native, Luigi Mangione, was Honolulu, Hawaii. Mangione appears to have attended the University of Pennsylvania, graduating with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in computer and information sciences after attending Gilman School for high school. She has no prior criminal history in New York or anywhere else in the nation. A LinkedIn page purporting to be Mangione’s details his internships at Firaxis Games and the John Hopkins Laboratory for Computational Sensing and Robotics before he started working as an engineer at TrueCar, a California-based online vehicle marketplace where he spent several years.
CATCHING AMERICA’S MOST WANTED MAN OF 2024
Mangione was recognized in a McDonald’s in Altoona and was reported to the local police, who then found he had “multiple fraudulent IDs,” a US passport, a firearm, and a suppressor similar to what was used in a murder and document that speaks both his motivation and mindset. He was quiet and shaking during the interrogation after being asked if he was in New York recently. Mangione got arrested in a hotel that was a 17 minute walk from the McDonald’s in Altoona after trying to get a room even though the hotel didn’t have any clean rooms. A hotel clerk told ABC News described him as cagey, just looking around, and making sure he wasn’t being watched as he was turned away.
Pool via Reuters
FEDERAL CASES & CHARGES OF LUIGI
Prosecutors have unsealed charges–including stalking, murder, and using a silencer in a crime of violence against Mangione on December 19. Mangione faces four several counts: murder through the use of a firearm, two stalking charges, and a firearms offense. The charges were brought by the US Attorney Office for the Southern District of New York and it could be a way for prosecutors to seek the death penalty, which is not an option with the state charges around him.
He is facing seven accusations connected to the carrying of firearms, one count of first degree murder in support of an act of terrorism, two counts of second degree murder (due to alleged terrorism and intentionality), and one count of possessing a forged instrument because of an alleged fraudulent ID in New York. Additionally, Mangione was first charged in Pennsylvania with forgery, illegal firearms possession, tampering with identification or documents, possession of criminal tools, and giving false identification to police authorities. He was ordered to be in arraignment on December 9 without bail and had been placed in a single cell with maximum custody level.
WHERE IS LUIGI NOW?
Mangione was reportedly taken to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, which is the only federal prison in New York city. It is also where Sean Diddy Combs is being held while he awaits trial in his federal sex trafficking case and disgraced mogul Sam Bankman-Fried is serving his 25 year sentence. MDC houses more than 1,300 inmates and is notorious for poor conditions and violence; multiple inmates have died because of injuries due to fighting in the facility.
NETIZENS: “HE MUST BE PLAYED BY DAVE FRANCO”
As soon as the CCTV images of Luigi Mangione were shared online, his striking facial features immediately caught the attention of thirsty netizens. Fans quickly began commenting that he was “too hot for prison” and expressed hopes that the police wouldn’t catch him—though they were mistaken.
Despite Luigi’s actions, the online buzz about his “handsomeness” only intensified. Many suggested that Dave Franco should play him in a potential series or movie about the assassination, citing their similar looks: thick brows, a mischievous smile, a fit physique, and a youthful appearance.
Adding to the intrigue, photos circulated online that compared his protection to the scene in Avengers where Loki is arrested. While fiction is far removed from reality, this prompted debates about why one man warranted so many guards. Some argued that the authorities were not afraid of Luigi escaping; rather, they were concerned about what he represented. The successful assassination of the CEO and Luigi’s failure to evade capture could lead to potential vigilante actions. This could result in either Luigi being targeted or the public, who supports his cause, rising up against the authorities.
So, where do you side on, Sugboanons? Share your thoughts below!
The Sinulog sa Lalawigan, a longstanding feature of the festival, has been officially replaced by the newly introduced Brass Band Competition, set to bring a dynamic and musical twist to this year’s celebration.
The Sinulog Foundation Inc. announced the shift as part of their efforts to revamp the hospital and offer fresh experiences for attendees. Scheduled for January 11, 2025, the Brass Band Competition promises to spotlight exceptional musical talent and creativity, further enhancing the exciting cultural experience for Sinulog.
There will be no Sinulog sa Lalawigan in 2025, but Sinulog Inc. Executive Director Elmer “Jojo” Labella announced on December 26, that the participating contingents of the Sinulog sa Lalawigan will directly perform in the Sinulog Grand Parade on January 19, 2025 at the Cebu City Sports’ Club.
Stay tuned for more updates as Sinulog 2025 approaches! Don’t miss anymore exclusive information for the most awaited event of the year.
We got some news for y’all! Hong Kong Microbiologist has a new warning
Photo from Canva
According to microbiologist, Yuen Kwok-yung said that another pandemic could exact far worse damage than Covid-19. This soft-spoken scientist is sometimes thought of as Hong Kong’s answer to top US health expert, Dr Fauci.
He told AFP at the city’s Queen Mary hospital, where he works and teaches, that both the public and world leaders must admit that another pandemic will come, and probably sooner than you anticipate.
Kwok-yung told AFP that the reason why he makes such a horrifying prediction is because you can see clearly the geopolitical, economic, and climatic changes are changing so rapidly. He warns in his new autobiography, “My Life in Medicine: A Hong Kong Journey,” that politicians must come to their senses and solve global existential threats.
Photo from Canva
While world leaders are more in “national and regional interests”, Yuen said that a rapidly changing climate coupled with emerging infectious diseases should be a top priority. “This is something we shouldn’t ignore,” he added.
Yuen Kwok-yung is a globally recognised authority on coronavirus and other infectious diseases, but he also came from humble beginnings. Born in Hong Kong in the late 1950s, Kwok-yung grew up in a subdivided flat with his parents and three brothers. In 1981, he graduated from medical school and worked in the city’s public hospital, where doctors are paid less than in the public sector.
Yuen rose into popularity in 2003 after he and his team successfully isolated and identified acute respiratory syndrome, also known as SARS. Which was a vital step towards testing, diagnosing, and treating the disease, which emerged in Southern China and Hong Kong before spreading globally.
Photo from Canva
The virus nearly killed three hundred people in the city for two months, a toll second to Mainland China. That soon formed Yuen’s approach in handling the pandemic, which ripped through laxed vaccination, particularly among the elderly.
Every year, people talk about the fun tradition of eating grapes under the table at midnight for good luck and to maybe find love. So, after being single for four years, I decided to give it a try!
Photo from Canva
When the clock hit midnight, I chomped down 13 grapes, but I didn’t finish until about 2 or 3 minutes later. My heart was racing as I stood up, smiling, thinking I had done it right and set myself up for a lucky 2024. But guess what? Nothing happened! I realized I might have missed the point.
Photo from Canva
To help you avoid my grape mishap and maybe help me find my future partner by 2025, here’s what everyone online is saying about this fun tradition:
You should only eat 12, no more, no less. Each grape represents one month of luck.
All grapes must be consumed between 12:00:00 AM to 12:00:59 AM. I went beyond, it did not work for me, so, set a timer beforehand.
Your whole body should be under the table, not just your head.
You should wear red underwear if you want to find love, while green if you want wealth.
The color of the grapes won’t matter. You can choose whether it’s red or green, for as long as they’re seedless to avoid accidental choking.
Size doesn’t matter. It doesn’t mean that you’re eating tiny grapes, that you’ll be paired with someone tinier than you, or the opposite if you opt to eat moondrop grapes for a tall partner.
Photo from Canva
So here’s the catch: while you’re under the table munching on grapes when the clock strikes 12, you’ll miss out on other fun traditions that happen right at midnight, like jumping high to grow taller or shaking your wallet filled with coins for more prosperity. Therefore, as we get ready for 2025, think about what’s most important to you! Choose which tradition you want to prioritize—because in the end, it’s your choice that will shape what the new year brings.
Calling all wizards from different worlds, our time has come!
KBeam Events just shared on social media the greatest news that wizards and fantasy lovers have been waiting for in the Philippine archipelago—a two-day concert featuring the enchanting music of Harry Potter, the Lord of the Rings, and The Hobbit!
A Magical Two-Day Rendezvous
For July 7, 2025, wizards from Hogwarts and muggles alike can expect the bewitching music from Harry Potter on stage. And the best part is, WE’VE GOT A WEASLEY! One of the Weasleys will be joining as a special guest for the concert to be held at 5PM at the Manila Metropolitan Theater.
On the next day, July 8, 2025, Sir Christopher Lee’s voice will be the special feature for The Music of The Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit concert; still the same theater and the same show time. Talk about taking an auditory trip with Saruman the White!
The Magical Music of Harry Potter Live in Concert
Photo from KBeam Events Official Facebook Page
Date: July 7, 2025
Gates Open: 3:30 PM
Show Time: 5:00 PM
Venue: Manila Metropolitan Theater
Tickets will be available on January 3rd, 12PM at Ticketmelon.com
Photo from KBeam Events Official Facebook Page
The Music of The Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit
Photo from KBeam Events Official Facebook Page
Date: July 8, 2025
Gates Open: 3:30 PM
Show Time: 5:00 PM
Venue: Manila Metropolitan Theater
Tickets will be available on January 3rd, 12PM at Ticketmelon.com
Photo from KBeam Events Official Facebook Page
So, Sugboanons, stay tuned for when the tickets are available, and get ready to ACCIO your slot—because it takes only ONE ticket TO RULE your concert experience!
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
