An investigation revealed that 323 virus samples were reported missing from a Queensland laboratory in Australia due to a serious biosecurity breach back in 2021. Health Minister Tim Nicholls announced on December 9, 2024, that the breach was uncovered in August 2023, but it remains unclear whether the samples were destroyed or simply lost.
Photo from ABC
The problem began when the freezer meant to store the virus samples broke down, necessitating their transfer to a new secure location. However, Nicholls explained that the transfer was mishandled: the samples were moved to a functioning freezer without proper documentation. As a result, the materials may have been removed from secure storage and could now be unaccounted for.
No Reported Virus Cases in Australia
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Dr. John Gerrard, Queensland’s Chief Health Officer, reassured the public that there is a low risk of a widespread outbreak. He explained that the samples would have lost their infectious properties if kept outside of low-temperature freezers. “No Hendra or lyssavirus cases have been detected in humans in Queensland for the past five years, and no hantavirus infections have been reported in Australia,” he stated.
Photo from Canva
However, Dr. Paul Griffin, an infectious disease expert, expressed concerns about the laboratory’s integrity, stressing that a breach in storage should never have occurred. “Laboratories handling such dangerous pathogens typically have rigorous systems in place, so this kind of mistake should not happen,” he said.
Why Was the Public Not Informed Sooner?
Photo from Canva
Minister Nicholls acknowledged the lack of transparency and stated that it would also be part of the ongoing investigation as to why the public wasn’t notified until 2024. “These are all matters that the investigation will address,” he said.
The incident has raised questions about the transparency of state-funded institutions. Many people have speculated about what else may be hidden from the public, with some expressing concerns about the potential for a pandemic.
A mellow color that exudes a quiet confidence without being overly-flashy.
Photo from Canva
What’s up, mga Sugboanon? The Pantone Color Institute recently released the color of the year for 2025 and it’s the Mocha Mousse. Kabalo na gyud mi nga excited namo mag OOTD; but wait, what do you think are the best colors to pair with Mocha Mousse? I’m curious, too, and fear not, because here are some great tips from the experts.
Photo from Canva
Mocha Mousse is described as “an evocative soft brown that transports our senses into the pleasure and deliciousness it inspires.” A mellow brown hue that evokes the indulgence of cacao, chocolate, and coffee. This shade esteems a quiet confidence in its own understated luxury, without being overly attention grabbing. But how else can I wear this color aside from denim or knitwear? Here is a list that can help you inspire your wardrobe for the New Years:
Creamy Whites
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The color White is a neutral color palette that can provide a versatile foundation for understated luxury and bold statements. Myrrh Lao-to, a celebrity stylist said that the soft, creamy brown can be paired with creamy whites. It would also look cute with gold or brass, he added.
For Aldrin Ramos, a stylist who styles Rhian Ramos and Lovi Poe, “adding white can also make it look fresh and clean. You can always pair your outfit with any white staple available in your closet, leaving a classic and chic look that you can wear everyday.
Actress Max Collins put on her chic fall outfit, consisting of a black shirt, creamy white pants, and a mocha-colored coat from Sandro.
How about Black or Navy?
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Yes, we can! Adding Black and Dark Grey can make browns moodier.
“A black contrast to mocha mousse can turn into a serious and edgier look on your outfit,” Ramos said. It can also give off an interesting combination and add an elegant touch when mixing strong colors like navy and black in mocha mousse.
Maymay Entrata wore a sheer beige and black ensemble for the 2024 Fashion week.
Other Hues
Photo from Canva
Blue and brown are both complementary colors, but mint and soft pale blue can also be options, mentioned by Lao To, a celebrity stylist.
Chi Gibbs, a designer and Illustrator known for her knack for colors, mixed an all-brown look with green accessories and a pair of beige sneakers with touches of unique colors.
Chie Filomena paired her light blue button-down with a mocha colored coat during a trip to Hong Kong.
Photo from Canva
The neutral status of a brown allows it to complement not only other neutral colors like black, cream, and white as well as other earthy tones such as olive green. Lao To said that it can also balance out the brighter statement colors.
“For the colorful peeps who want to make the statement with brights, can be with mustard yellow, lavender, mauve, or peach/coral,” He said.
If you like it subtle, just look at the interesting touches of purple on Nadine Lustre’s flowy high-neck dress by Patty Ang.
Other Brown Shades
Photo from Canva
The easiest way to wear the shade is to go monochromatic, if everything else fails. Mix and match mocha with caramel or taupe and also other browns like terracotta. It will look stylish when combined.
In order to achieve an ultra chic look, she would build a monochromatic look with all mocha mousse or make mocha mousse the colored footwear and then mix and match the mentioned colors, Lao To said.
Photo from Canva
Ramos also said the same thing, “adding that can also add variation instead of going some monotone.”
We love how Pia Wurtzbach styled her copper boxy, cropped blazer and baggy trousers and paired it well with a mocha colored inner top. To make it stand out, designer Patty Ang added colorful embellishments on the cuffs of Pia’s cuff blazer.
Lao To has also styled Julia Montes, also wore a pair of wide leg mocha trouser which were matched with a dark brown asymmetrical top.
That’s It!
Photo from Canva
That’s it, mga Sugbuanon! Naa na jud moy idea na makatabang sa inyoha para ma level up inyo OOTD. Now it is time for you to shine in your own outfit check and inspire your wardrobe for the New Years. Coming out from an emotionally charged year that is 2024, perhaps this soothing shade is just what everyone’s closet needs to start the new year in a more serene mode.
Hoy Marites, unsay latest? Naay upcoming horror movie ig 2025!
So, what is Final Destination: Bloodlines all about? Will it be worth the hype? Lemme explain. Final Destination: Bloodlines is an upcoming supernatural horror film and the sixth installment in the Final Destination film series. It is directed by Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein, the film was written by Guy Busick and Lori Evans Taylor. The new film was produced by New Line Cinema and it is scheduled to be released in the United States by Warner Bros. Pictures on May 16, 2025.
The cast members of this movie includes Tony Todd, Brec Bassinger, Teo Briones, Kaitlyn Santa Juana, Richard Harmon, Anna Lore, Owen Patrick Joyner, Max Lloyd-Jones, Rya Kihlstedt and Tinpo Lee.
Behind-the-scene shots of the castBehind-the-scene shots
Before the release of Final Destination 5 in 2015, actor Tony Todd said if the film were to be successful, two sequels would be filmed back to back. In 2019, New Line Cinema announced a development in the new installment for the Final Destination franchise. Patrick Melton and Marcus Dunstan wrote the script, re-imagining the franchise. The film would be set in the world of first responders, and feature EMTs, firefighters, and police officers. That October, series creator Jeffrey Reddick confirmed that the sixth film had been in the works prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The production had experienced delays due to the SAG-AFTRA strike in mid July 2023. However, in October 2021, the series creator revealed that the film will be different from the franchise’s formula since the film will focus on the character’s backstory. Filming instead took place in Canada from March 4 to May 13, 2024, with Christian Sebalt as their cinematographer.
Cebu Pacific, one of the leading budget airlines in the Philippines, is set to make your 2025 travel even more affordable with its much-anticipated 12.12 sale.
Photo from Ram Mancelita
For a limited time, the airline is offering one-way base fares starting as low as Php 88.00 for selected domestic and international destinations. However, it’s important to note that this offer applies only to the base fare and does not include additional fees or surcharges, which may vary depending on the chosen destination.
Photo from Ram Mancelita
The catch is that the booking window for this promotion is short, so for you to take advantage of these fares, you must book your tickets before Friday, December 13, 2024. The travel period for this promotion spans from June 1, 2025 to November 30, 2025, allowing you to secure your flights for the upcoming months. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting break in another city, this sale makes it easier than ever to find affordable flights to a variety of Instagram-worthy places.
Photo from Leah Yin
The 12.12 sale is expected to be highly popular, so travelers are encouraged to act quickly to grab the best deals before they’re gone. Nya, asa man ta next year, Sugboanons?
This is the season to listen to the 300 voices that filled the room as Cebu’s finest choral groups united in celebration of the World Choral Day at SM Seaside. In this article, we would like to introduce to you the top eight performing groups who brought the holiday spirit to life with their beautiful voices. Ing ana jud ang Pinoy! Dili magpapildi.
Photo from SM SeasidePhoto from SM SeasidePhoto from SM Seaside
Los Cantantes Cebu
Photo from SM Seaside
Los Cantantes Cebu is a community based choral group whose sole purpose is to serve the Lord with their burning passion in music. The choral group has a YouTube channel that features their performances in various competitions and also has their own Apple and Spotify playlist that has their top songs and covers. The choral group also posts their relatable content on Tiktok and Instagram about their daily life as a choir group and song covers.
UP Serenata
Photo from SM Seaside
UP Serenata is the official choral group of the University of the Philippines-Cebu and it is composed of students and alumni from the university. The choral group’s repertoire predominantly comprises Cebuano music with the advocacy to sustain, continue, and propagate Cebuano culture, inside and outside of the Philippines. Under the leadership of Doctor Catherine Rodel, the group has not only won numerous awards throughout the years, but also continually makes an effort to help non-governmental organizations by having fundraising concerts.
Photo from SM Seaside
In 2017, UP Serenata firstly partnered UP Ambassadors (UPSA), one of the best leading choirs in the country for their concert at the International Eucharistic Convention. The UP Ambassadors under the leadership of Professor Edgardo Manguiat, have also reaped several awards abroad. UP Serenata placed second place at Gawad Pangulo Choral Competition and “Best Interpretation of a Contest Piece.” In 2016, the choral group had their first Broadway concert entitled “Music of the Night” in celebration of its 16th founding anniversary and for the benefit of the orphans of My Refuge House Ministry. For more than 16 years, Serenata has garnered awards, won different contests, and performed several benefit concerts.
Photo from SM Seaside
Koro Teknoy
Photo from SM Seaside
Koro Teknoy is the official choral group of the Cebu Institute of Technology – University. The choral group proudly participated in the celebration of World Choral Day at SM Seaside along with other fellow chorister groups to kick off the holiday season. On December 4, they recently partnered with Rotaract of Metro Cebu Institute of Technology University for Project Solis in making an effort to create positive change. Koro Teknoy has also performed in various events in Cebu City.
Huni Habagat
Photo from SM Seaside
Huni Habagat is the official choral group of the University of Southern Philippines Foundation. Other than being one of the participants in the World Choral Day Celebration, the choral group has also recently performed at the M Lhuillier Christmas Tree Lighting on December 3. Huni Habagat also has a Spotify and Apple playlist where you can listen to their rendition “Mahal Ka Namin, O Senor Santo Nino.”
CTU Choristers
Photo from SM Seaside
CTU Choristers come with the introduction “We Sing, We Serve, We Perform” as the choral group of the Cebu Technological University – Main Campus. The group had the honor of joining their fellow choristers on stage for the World Choral Day Celebration at SM Seaside. The special day became even more meaningful as we celebrated the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, reflecting on gratitude and faith while lifting their voices on a song. Underdogs in the past years, in 2017, the choral group headed to nationals after their win against the defending champions against another Cebu State University.
CNU Chorale
Photo from SM Seaside
The CNU Chorale live by their mantra, “We sing to express, not to impress” other than being the choral group of the Cebu Normal University, one of the oldest institutions in Cebu. True to their mantra, the CNU Chorale achieved remarkable success this year at the 13th Bali International Choir Festival, marking their first international competition with a series of outstanding performances that reaped mutiple prestigious awards.
Photo from SM Seaside
This series of awards afforded them a spot to the Grand Prix, a significant recognition that placed them among the best choirs in the competition. They made history by winning the first ever Conductors Choice Awards in the BICF, received by their talented adviser and conductor Ms. Darlane Yap. CNU Chorale success highlights the rich cultural and musical heritage of Cebu on the international stage.
UC Chorus
Photo from SM Seaside
The UC Chorus is the official choral group of the University of Cebu, they’re also known as the “New Singing Ambassadors,” established in 1970 as a High School Glee Club which developed into an in-house Choral organization with members coming from the High School and different colleges. Its programs include “Production work for school programs; Outreach programs by performing in events outside of school; Technical Services” Sound System provision; promoting excellence by joining competitions; Development of music repertoire; income generating projects and formation of an artists’ cooperative.
Salazar Singing Ambassadors
Photo from SM Seaside
The Salazar Singing Ambassadors is a choral group from the Salazar Colleges of Science and Institute of Technology. This year, the SCSIT performers brought the beauty of Chinese culture and long-standing historical ties between the Filipino and Chinese communities through weaving diverse cultures through dance and music. Together with Sidlak Dance Troupe joins the Gabii sa Kabilin 2024 at the Fo Guang Shan Chu Un, a buddhist temple at the top of the hill in Rama Avenue, Cebu City.
Gabii sa Kabilin is a program established by RAFI in 2007 with the aim to preserve Cebu’s unique culture and traditions. This year’s Gabii sa Kabilin theme, “Padayon,” emphasizes why the Cebuano race, spirit, and personality have thrived in the face of several crises and hardships. The whole Salazarian community takes immense pride in nurturing talented individuals who never fail in showcasing their talent in various fields.
There’s really something in the waters of Cebu that brought these eight wonderful choral groups to shine in their own light this Christmas season as we celebrate “World Choral Day” and sharing the stage with their fellow choristers group is already an honor itself. It has brought great pride to our selves as Cebuanos, as we continue to nurture our passions every step of the way and represent our country in various competitions locally and abroad. This is just the tip of the iceberg as we continue to discover more on the musicality of Filipinos and the rewards they have reaped in the past.
A digital nomad is no stranger to Jomar Yee who probably passed your “for you” pages a multitude of times. What people probably don’t know is how his TikTok content about an umbrella led to extensive sales conversions for the brand. Businesses had to shift things around when digital platforms became the next big thing in marketing to stay relevant and competitive. Now, the digital space has evolved and another potential was unlocked for both enterprises and the market – ecommerce platforms like TikTok Shop. To a consumer, it’s a convenient and affordable way to acquire items. To brands, it’s an opportunity to reach a wider audience and boost sales. It is hard to pass out this budding possibility to to learn about how to effectively use TikTok and TikTok Shop for your business, on TikTok which is why RGC Brings TikTok to Cebu! The Republiq Group of Companies (RGC), in partnership with TikTok, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Department of Trade and Industry – Central Visayas, invites micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) for a chance to learn about building a TikTok Shop, market insights and trends, sales strategies, real-life ecommerce stories, and more from TikTok Shop representatives and key individuals in the business community.
Discover the world of ecommerce and grow your business with RGC Brings TikTok to Cebu this coming December 9, 2024 from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at The Grand Ballroom of NUSTAR Resort and Casino. For registration and more information, check out Republiq Group of Companies on Facebook.
Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 7, Fiesta Haraya Bai 2024 is a huge celebration of creativity and culture. There’s tons of exciting workshops and activities, all focused on the arts—think film, theater, music, animation, and so much more! If you didn’t make it today, don’t worry because the biggest events are happening this Saturday and Sunday, December 7 and 8, 2024.
So, let’s check out on the event’s programs for the weekend:
SATURDAY
Day 2 of Fiesta Haraya Bai Fair 2024 is all about the art of creation—whether it’s weaving stories for the stage or crafting plotlines for video games. One of the exciting highlights is a deep dive into the making of the new Cebuano musical, “Hopeless Romantics Inc.,” directed and written by Jude Gitamondoc. He’ll be sharing the magic behind the play’s music and how it all comes together, including the beautiful song “Breathe You,” originally sung by the talented, and now fashion icon, Heart Evangelista. It’s a chance to see the creative process firsthand and get a sneak peek into the making of the incredible musical which will be staged in February 2025!
Day 3 promises an unforgettable closing program, packed with exciting opportunities! You’ll have the chance to be mentored by the talented Dwende Winners, plus enjoy grand performances from the Knapsack Dancers. The day will also feature a showcase of incredible talents from Musika Haraya, all leading up to the grand Cebu Music Expo finale.
DTI-Region 7 has plenty more exciting events and activities lined up, especially as we approach the new year. So, if you’re craving more, make sure to support their upcoming programs and events, and take every opportunity to celebrate and embrace the rich and creative Filipino and Cebuano culture that makes us proud!
Danao City has recently been classified as a second-class income city, meaning it’s raking in between 1 billion and 1.3 billion Philippine pesos in revenue! This is more than just a shiny new title; it’s a clear sign of its booming economy and its irresistible charm for attracting investments!
Mayor Thomas Mark “Mix” Durano emphasizes that this upgrade will lead to increased optimism and efforts to draw investments in various sectors, particularly manufacturing and business process management (BPM). The classification is expected to benefit the community through job creation and sustainable growth initiatives.
Danao City has a history of industrial presence, with established companies like Cebu Mitsumi and Republic Cement contributing to its reputation as an investment destination. Mayor Durano mentions that his grandfather’s efforts in attracting industrial investments have had a lasting impact on the community.
Mayor Durano also unveiled a fantastic new addition to the city’s bustling business scene—a brand-new commissary for Jollibee Foods Corp., set to open its doors next year! This sprawling two-hectare facility is poised to meet the food processing needs of beloved brands like Jollibee, Mang Inasal, and Chowking across the Visayas. Best of all, it’s expected to create a whopping 600 jobs, bringing a wave of opportunity to the community!
But that’s not all! To supercharge industrial growth, Durano shared that the city has given the green light to its Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP), which carves out designated areas for agricultural, industrial, and agro-industrial development. A generous 300 hectares are now open for eager locators, complete with essential infrastructure like water and electricity already in place. With the city council’s approval secured, the plan is now awaiting the final nod at the provincial level. Exciting times are ahead!
Danao City aims to diversify its economy by ramping up its BPM sector! With 2,000 freshly trained graduates ready to dive into the BPM world, the city is buzzing with excitement over plans for a dedicated BPM facility. But that’s not all! A cutting-edge digitalization roadmap is in the works, transforming Danao into a vibrant IT-BPM hub. And to make remote work and online education a breeze, free internet access will soon blanket every barangay.
Overall, this upgrade sends a clear message: Danao City is not just dreaming of a brighter future—it’s making it happen! With a focus on boosting industrial capacity, attracting investment, and enhancing the livelihoods of its residents, the city is stepping boldly into a world of progress and optimism.
No, you can’t blame method acting for your real-life actions…such as cheating on your partner.
Photo from Pexels
Becoming an effective actor requires a wide range of skills, including the ability to disconnect from reality when performing. This is why there are many different acting techniques designed to help actors improve their craft, one of which is method acting.
Recently, the term gained attention after Anthony Jennings’ ex-girlfriend, Jamella Villanueva, shared “receipts” revealing his alleged affair with co-actor Maris Racal. According to Villanueva, Jennings believed that making his co-star feel loved and appreciated was the only way to ensure their work went smoothly and for his partner to perform well, especially since she was going through a tough time.
Method acting isn’t a new concept in the entertainment industry, and it’s not just Jennings who has used it to enhance his performance. However, not every method actor has ended up in a cheating scandal because of it.
Actors Who Opted for Method Acting
Let’s take a look at other actors who’ve taken method acting to extreme lengths to fully immerse themselves in their roles:
Mon Confiado
Mon Confiado, one of the most well-known method actors in the Philippines, shared that to authentically portray a “taong grasa” (a homeless person) in the film Sa Kabilang Dako, he spent a night on the streets without money, trying to survive as his character would.
Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro once took the streets as a cab driver for him to get to know what it’s like being one to characterize his role in “Taxi Driver.”
Sylvester Stallone
Sylvester Stallone pushed his co-actor to throw real punches during the Rocky films. The iconic scene where Rocky and Drago exchange real blows nearly cost Stallone his life. “Later that night, my heart started to swell, my blood pressure went up to 260, and I thought I was going to meet the angels. I had to be rushed to intensive care and flown from Canada to California,” Stallone recalled on Good Morning America.
Jim Carrey
Jim Carrey took his portrayal of Andy Kaufman in Man on the Moon to such extremes that the production crew grew frustrated with him for continuing to act like the comedian, even when the cameras were off.
Nicolas Cage
Nicolas Cage went to extreme lengths for his role as “Al Columbato” in Birdy. He pulled out his own teeth and wore the same bandages for five weeks. His dedication helped bring the film to life, winning the Grand Prix Spécial du Jury at the Cannes Film Festival, one of its highest honors.
Christian Bale
Christian Bale shed 62 pounds for his role in The Machinist, surviving on a diet of apples, coffee, water, cigarettes, and whiskey to portray his character.
Austin Butler
Austin Butler, as he plays the role of “Elvis Presley,” shared that he opted to take on an Elvis speaking voice to get to know and embrace the character, and soon he admitted that it took a toll on him, “You can lose touch with who you actually are. And I definitely had that when I finished Elvis — not knowing who I was.”
Jared Leto
Jared Leto took his commitment to the Joker role in The Suicide Squad to another level, allegedly sending his co-stars strange gifts like condoms and anal beads, just for fun.
There are other method actors, both in Hollywood and in the Philippine entertainment industry, however, the aforementioned are the notable ones who really caught the attention of the public. But the question is, should we add Jennings to the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below, Sugboanons!
At midnight on December 4, 2024, social media exploded when Jam Villanueva posted about the cheating allegations against her ex-boyfriend, Anthony Jennings—AND THERE WERE RECEIPTS!
Of course, netizens quickly took screenshots of the post and spread it across the internet, making it go viral. By the morning of the same day, people began commenting, and many started bringing up Maris Racal’s previous partner, Rico Blanco, as he remained silent on the matter.
The “receipts” Jam shared included several photos, showing proof of Anthony and Maris’s private moments, from their “hot” conversations and dating days to the denied allegations and broken promises of “never again.”
While Jam’s intention was likely to find peace of mind, her actions raised concerns from legal advisors, who warned that this could lead to a legal battle over libel and invasion of privacy.
In today’s world, where social media is a go-to platform for airing personal issues, discovering infidelity often prompts people to share private conversations online. But the question remains: even if you’re not married, is it okay to post the chats of your cheating partner?
Screengrab from Jamela Villanueva’s Instagram AccountScreengrab from Jamela Villanueva’s Instagram Account
Libel: The Risk of Defamation
Libel is a serious offense in the Philippines, and people, including those in the media, have faced legal action for it. In our country, and in many others, libel is considered a criminal act.
According to Article 353 of the Revised Penal Code, the offense is when someone publicly accuses another person of a crime that could damage their reputation. In connection, since Jam posted her accusations on social media, she may also be in violation of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. This law covers libel committed online, including on social media platforms and websites.
Therefore, if you post intimate or any sort of incriminating conversations that may harm other people’s reputation, you could be accused of libel in return, even if your claims are true. The Philippine law doesn’t give out free passes to the cheated for as long as what you shared and spread about defamed another party; and you may face up to four (4) years in jail for such an act.
Screengrab from Jamela Villanueva’s Instagram Account
Anti-Privacy Law: The Right to Privacy
In today’s world, protecting our privacy has become more important than ever. Along with the potential for a libel case, Jam’s actions may also violate Republic Act No. 10173, or the Data Privacy Act of 2012. This law ensures that individuals have the right to keep their personal information and communications private, including text messages, emails, and chats. It prevents the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive and private content, such as the chats Jam shared.
While posting and sharing private conversations, especially on social media, might seem like a normal response for many, there are other options that could have been considered. But, let’s be honest, if we were in her shoes, we might have found ourselves torn between sharing the truth and dealing with the hurt in private as well, and that’s understandable especially through all the hurt and anxiety one may have acquired during the messed up breakup. And, the fact that Maris and Anthony are public figures only added fuel to the fire as netizens began questioning Jam’s intentions, wondering if she was seeking the spotlight rather than just sharing her pain.
But, what do you think, Sugboanons? Should the scorned partner post proof of the cheating scandal or must it be kept between the involved parties only? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
