Well, it seems like we have luck on our side or at least the luck in having the ‘chance of wishing’ as a dramatic sight of the Perseid meteor shower will arrive this week.
The name Perseid comes from the constellation “Perseus” where it would seem to originate or radiates from it or also called a meteor shower’s radiant.
Look to the sky in the late evening and early morning hours on August 12-13 to witness its peak. The meteor shower will be observed from the constellation Perseus located on the eastern horizon.
The Perseid meteor shower is famous for its high hourly rate and bright meteors due to the Earth slamming into the debris left behind by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. For this year, we are expected to see at least 50 or more meteors during peak time according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Photo from
What to do to clearly see meteors?
Reduce amount of light pollution in your view
Don’t look at your phone
Give your eyes at least 15 minutes to adjust to the dark
The more sky you can see, the better
As most of the Philippines are now under stricter community quarantine classification because of the Delta variant threat, why don’t we look up to the sky and wish with all our hearts on the meteor showers for healing, peace, and the end of Covid-19.
A wild spirit with a soft heart and sweet soul as she describes herself in her Instagram account, Steffi Rose Pearson Aberasturi, the Undefeated Queen of Cebu is now making waves in the Miss Universe Philippines (MUP) 2021.
With her confidence, presence, walk and creative production, the beauty queen’s runway walk challenge video has stood out among all the beautiful ladies.
Representing the Province of Cebu, Steffi, 26, has never tasted defeat in all her pageant competitions which speaks of her determination to always make sure to come prepared in every single one of them. And when asked what her secret was to being undefeated, she answered “Faith”.
She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Tourism Management at the University of San Carlos and have experience working as an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher and a mentor at the Amore Modeling Institute in Cebu.
This Cebuana beauty is a 5-foot-7 stunner who chose “Compassion” when asked what was the most important quality of a Cebuana.
Her father is from Malitbog, Leyte, Philippines while her mother is from San Francisco in Mindanao, Philippines and has an older sister named Crystal Star.
A model, endorser, certified scuba diver and entrepreneur, she is a woman of many interests and passion.
As with her statement “Always slay with purpose”, the beauty queen recently launched #MyQueenderaStory and #MyKingderoStory. She features their brand or products in her social media accounts for free as her way of supporting local entrepreneurs. Here, every seller can share the story behind building a business during the pandemic.
Pageant History
Steffi is not new to the pageant world and have quite a list of accomplishments.
Sinulog Festival Queen 2011
Miss IPI 2012
Miss Campus Femme 2012
Miss Mandaue 2013
Miss Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) 2013 first runner-up.
Reyna ng Aliwan 2014
Miss Beauché International 2015
Binibining Cebu 2018-2019
There is a total of 4 Cebuana candidates in the MUP 2021 competition, aside from Steffi, we also have Beatrice Luigi Gomez (Cebu City), Jane Darren Genobisa (Carcar City), and Chiara Alix Lim (Mandaue City). We have to vote and cheer for them as their fellow cebuanos and prove that lahi rajud ang ka gwapa sa Cebuana.
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page
On Wednesday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of August 11, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 916 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 832 new recoveries, and 41 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 76,162, while the active cases increased to 11,686 (from 11,642).
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 32,802 (+271 new) – Total recoveries: 27,945 (+234 new) – Total deaths: 1,011 (+5 new) – Active cases: 3,846
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 9,910 (+125 new) – Total recoveries: 7,980 (+233 new) – Total deaths: 224 (+11 new) – Active cases: 1,706
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 9,199 (+157 new) – Total recoveries: 7,300 (+46 new) – Total deaths: 270 (+0 new) – Active cases: 1,629
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 24,251 (+363 new) – Total recoveries: 18,667 (+319 new) – Total deaths: 1,079 (+25 new) – Active cases: 4,505
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 11,686 (from 11,642)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 76,162 (+916 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 61,892(+832 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 2,584 (+41 new*)
A total of 3,861 laboratory results were released for today.
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.
Do you like coffee? How about brandy? If you have answered ‘Yes’ to both questions, something exciting is awaiting for your purchase.
Emperador Coffee Brandy is soon to be available in the market. Buzzed to be released in September, the world-class maker of brandy is definitely making your life fun and hyped. Coffee and brandy definitely make the perfect blend.
Photo by Jolina Divino
Photo by Lorlyn Denosta Mationg
Apart from drinking it straight, you can enjoy it in many different ways;
Iced Coffee
coffee brandy
ice
Coffee Condensada
coffee brandy
condensada
Coffee Mocha
coffee brandy
chocolate drink
Iced Latte
coffee brandy
milk
ice
You see, apart from enjoying it straight up, you can mix it with different flavors to up your game. Nevertheless, I just hope you’ll not have the famous pandesal as your ‘pulutan’ because it might not be a good pair.
Nevertheless, don’t forget to tag us in your photos!
Senior citizens will be inoculated with J&J Janssen CoViD-19 Vaccine. They need not return for a 2nd dose.
Kindly continue to help us urge our citizens to register through PaBakunaTa.com that connects to http://vims.cebucity.gov.ph/page/register. We need the numbers in our registration data to justify continued and enough supply of vaccines. Thank you.
On Tuesday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of August 10, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 855 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 385 new recoveries, and 38 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 75,250, while the active cases increased to 11,642 (from 11,205).
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 32,530 (+331 new) – Total recoveries: 27,711 (+168 new) – Total deaths: 1,006 (+6 new) – Active cases: 3,813
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 9,786 (+145 new) – Total recoveries: 7,750 (+0 new) – Total deaths: 213 (+2 new) – Active cases: 1,823
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 9,043 (+99 new) – Total recoveries: 7,254 (+37 new) – Total deaths: 270 (+5 new) – Active cases: 1,519
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 23,891 (+280 new) – Total recoveries: 18,350 (+180 new) – Total deaths: 1,054 (+25 new) – Active cases: 4,487
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 11,642 (from 11,205)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 75,250 (+855 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 61,065 (+385 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 2,543 (+38 new*)
A total of 4,105 laboratory results were released for today.
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.
Rejoice! Finally, someone has said it. Johnson & Johnson works.
New results from a clinical trial called “Sisonke” in South Africa showed that a single dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, just one, made by Johnson & Johnson is highly effective in preventing severe illness and death from the Delta and Beta variants of the coronavirus.
These results were reported at a news conference by the South Africa’s Ministry of Health which is a breather for everyone as many have already been vaccinated and the ones planning to are anxious to have this brand of vaccine as to its rising question of efficacy.
J. & J. vaccine is now being administered to senior citizens and essential workers here in the Philippines, and with that many have worried as it was formerly reported that it doesn’t work against the Delta variant. Many speculated that one might need a booster shot or a mix of another vaccine brand for a 2nd dose which was proven wrong through the clinical trial.
One shot is enough and there’s no need for a booster and mixing brands have already been discouraged by doctors.
Efficacy against death from the Delta variant: up to 95%
Efficacy against hospitalization: up to 71%
Efficacy against Beta variant: up to 71%
The vaccine did slightly worse against the Beta variant, which is thought to be more adept at sidestepping the immune response than Delta.
With breakthrough infections occurrence:
mild symptoms: 96%, death: less than 0.05%
“We believe this vaccine is doing what it was designed to do, which was to stop people going to hospital and stop them ending in I.C.U.s and dying,” -Dr. Linda-Gail Bekker, co-lead of the study and director of the Desmond Tutu H.I.V. Centre at the University of Cape Town.
A very good news indeed for there will be less hesitation now for every Filipino to get vaccinated.
This Christmas season, there will only be one place for shoppers and tourists to go to for the best of Cebuano food and products: Carbon District’s Puso Village.
Carbon has long been an open secret among locals for its affordable prices; now, with the modernization project of the Cebu City local government and Cebu2World Inc. (C2W), locals as well as tourists can take advantage of Carbon’s famed barato prices while enjoying the best of Cebuano food and products – all in one destination!
The Puso Village will be one of the first attractions to open in the modernized Carbon District in the fourth quarter of this year. With canopies shaped like Cebu’s famous puso (hanging rice), this unique destination will feature new gastronomic adventures that showcase the best of Cebuano flavors. Those in need of retail therapy may also visit the Puso Village, as it will also house various local merchants that sell art, gifts, toys, gadgets, and clothing.
“We are excited to introduce the Puso Village in the Carbon District in time for Christmas. This new dining and shopping complex is something that all Cebuanos can be proud of. It’s a new destination that is rich in history and culture, but at the same time modern, a perfect marriage between the past and the future,” said Cristina Angan, Director for C2W.
Puso Village will also be a haven for merchants and vendors with its opening expected to spur richer trade and generate more jobs in the retail and food industry. This milestone signals a new beginning for those who were badly affected by the pandemic, with C2W prioritizing homegrown businesses and products as locators.
“Many people are itching to go out and have fun, after being stuck at home for more than a year now. With the inoculation rates today, we are bullish that the public will be more confident to visit the Puso Village come Christmastime not just to enjoy the destination but also to support local Cebuano entrepreneurs. Of course, we will continue to adhere to the required health standards,” Angan said.
Cebuano Food and Products take center stage at Puso Village
A one-of-a-kind dining and shopping destination, the Puso Village will house a variety of mini-anchors that will showcase the artistic flair and flavorful palates of both local and national entrepreneurs.
With both open-air and airconditioned areas, Puso Village already has two food concepts to look forward to: the Food Avenue and Carbon’s very own Lechon Alley.
“The best of Cebuano tastes and delicacies will come together in Puso Village. The Food Avenue will not only showcase classic Cebuano dishes we all crave such as ginabot, ngohiong, larang, bakasi and pochero, it will also feature new food concepts by local entrepreneurs and international flavors to whet the appetite of every visitor,” said Angan.
Already generating some local buzz is the Lechon Alley – an entire street dedicated to the most quintessential and arguably best-loved of all Cebuano delicacies, the Cebu Lechon. Well-loved names will be joined by both new and homegrown brands to make Lechon Alley a true showcase of Cebu’s famous roast pig.
“Overall, the ambience is casual and relaxed. There will be selections for every taste and budget choice, whether you’re there for a quick merienda or an all-out dinner,” assured Angan. SuTuKil, a Bisdak dining experience featuring grills, stews, and the local version of ceviche, kinilaw; barbecues; and drinks and desserts will also be on offer.
The Puso Village’s distinct Cebuano setting is highlighted by an expansive view of the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway, the Mactan Channel, and the new Sto. Nino Chapel and Park.
The open-air chapel, which takes its shape from the crown of the Sto. Nino de Cebu, will be completed by the fourth quarter of the year and opened in time for Fiesta Señor Sto. Niño 2022. An eminent figure of the Holy Child – around 30 feet tall – will be set on the chapel roof, watching over devotees and the looking out over the Mactan Channel.
Cebu City’s must-see destination
“We’re opening at exactly the right time. Vaccinations are now in full swing in Cebu City, but we are still very careful about where we bring our families – we want large, open spaces where we can observe physical distancing. At Puso Village, you can all have that while still enjoying a wide selection of food and shopping at affordable prices. There’s no other destination like this in Cebu – it’s the must-see, must-visit location and it’s right here in the heart of our city,” concluded Angan.
On Monday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of August 9, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 634 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 483 new recoveries, and 39 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 74,396, while the active cases increased to 11,205 (from 11,073).
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 32,199 (+269 new) – Total recoveries: 27,543 (+242 new) – Total deaths: 1,000 (+13 new) – Active cases: 3,656
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 9,641 (+124 new) – Total recoveries: 7,751 (+0 new) – Total deaths: 211 (+1 new) – Active cases: 1,679
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 8,945 (+54 new) – Total recoveries: 7,217 (+41 new) – Total deaths: 266 (+0 new) – Active cases: 1,462
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 23,611 (+187 new) – Total recoveries: 18,174 (+200 new) – Total deaths: 1,029 (+25 new) – Active cases: 4,408
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 11,205 (from 11,073)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 74,396 (+634 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 60,685 (+483 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 2,506 (+39 new*)
A total of 2,705 laboratory results were released for today.
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.
Mention Moalboal to almost any Cebuano, and they immediately know what’s up. It’s a magical place with amazing sights and scenic beaches, and a lot of locals and tourists frequent the place.
If you haven’t been there, you owe yourself the experience. Moalboal has some of the best waters in Cebu – it has clear waters, white sand beaches (most famously Basdaku White Beach), plus a rich and lively underwater scene! Today we’re taking a look at Panagsama Beach, a popular destination known for its wonderful waters.
Photo by Arnico Lumangyao Cartalla
Now at first glance, Panagsama Beach may seem like it doesn’t have much to offer. Its shoreline is crusted with rock and corals with shallow sand. At some areas, the water goes up to concrete slopes or platforms built by the beachside establishments. There isn’t much of a shore, but alas, the appeal of Panagsama is underneath its waters!
Upon arriving at the beach, right away you’ll notice the many boats parked in the shallows. These boats are all geared and ready to take visitors and tourists on a tour of the waters. Most of the boats are ready to go right away after you settle a price with the crew, but some of them are also reserved by private contact or booking. It’s best to arrange a boat with your resort or find a suki to save some money on boat trips.
Photo from Twin de los Reyes Facebook Page
Photo by JonnahAnn DeGuzman Tuplano
Photo by Jonalyn Terante
Photo by Jonalyn Terante
Photo from Twin de los Reyes Facebook Page
Photo from Twin de los Reyes Facebook Page
What is there to see in Panagsama?
One of the most talked about experiences in Moalboal is visiting Pescador Island. Only 20 minutes away from the beach, it’s home to a beautiful coral-covered reef top that gives way to a steep cliff into the deep sea. The reef is filled with different colorful small fish and sometimes turtles swim around the reef. Deeper down in Pescador dive sites, there are black corals, sea fans and sponges along with a wide variety of fish including snappers, scorpionfish, frog fish, triggers, stonefish, nudis, moray eels, and even barracuda!
A little closer to the coast this time is the famed sardine run. The sardines feed on plankton in massive schools that “run” every day, at any time of year. Millions of sardines swim in the waters near Panagsama Beach, and you can observe them from any angle – from the surface of the water with a snorkel, or beside the school underwater with diving equipment. The insane number of sardines sometimes changes the color of the water; it truly is a sight to behold!
Photo from Twin de los Reyes Facebook Page
Photo by Jubert Valmores
Photo by Jubert Valmores
Photo by Jubert Valmores
Photo by JonnahAnn DeGuzman Tuplano
Turtle Point | Ksenia Chu
Photo by Cori Loren Pino
If you’re interested in diving and exploring other sites, Moalboal has countless dive shops offering tours and even certification courses. Get a closer look at the different reefs and the rich marine life down under. Different sites offer different attractions and sea creatures, so consider going through Moalboal’s impressive list of over 19 dive sites!
The coastal town
Panagsama Beach is located in Basdiot along the western coast. Along the beach you’ll find countless restaurants and bars offering shelter and refreshments for swimmers and divers. The establishments are huddled around each other, only separated by the footpath and the roads, giving the whole coastline a quaint towny vibe.
Photo from Twin de los Reyes Facebook Page
Photo from Twin de los Reyes Facebook Page
Photo from Twin de los Reyes Facebook Page
Photo by Olesya Kovalenko
There are also numerous resorts offering stays in Panagsama. From backpacker rooms and lodges to fully-decked resorts, there’s something for every trip, dive, or vacation!
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Day Use:
Beach entrance fee: None
Other information
Plenty of accommodation is available within Panagsama Beach, from backpacker rooms to resorts. Prices range from ₱800 to ₱6,000 per night.
If you wish to have a private package tour, it would cost you roughly ₱1,500 to ₱2,000 for 4 to 6 people.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Panagsama Beach, Basdiot, Moalboal, Southern Cebu – 2.5 to 3 hours away from Cebu City.
BY COMMUTE: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound to Moalboal. Travel time takes 2.5 to 3 hours and costs around ₱150. From the bus stop downtown, you can hire a tricycle or a habal-habal to Panagsama beach for around ₱20 to ₱30 per person.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Panagsama Beach” in Moalboal, Cebu.
