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5 Self-Care Habits of Successful Women

We are surrounded by successful and empowered women from different walks of life every day. They are our lady bosses, our tough mothers and sisters, or even our “strong, independent” friends and partners, these successful women became who they are because they braved through life’s challenges. And so they ought to be celebrated. If you are an empowered woman yourself, then you deserve to be celebrated too!

But how do successful women make it through life’s tough challenges? Self-care! According to Michael Hyatt in an article by psychologytoday.com, he defines self-care as “the activities that make for a meaningful life outside of work, while contributing to better performance at work.” Your mind gains power from proper rest and recreation. So complement your hustle with self-care.

Here are 5 Self-Care Habits of Successful Women.

1. Retail Therapy

There’s no shame in retail therapy!

There’s just something about buying things for ourselves that makes it so comforting. No doubt, shopping can also be therapeutic for most successful women. 

Forme | Second Floor, Mountain Wing SM Seaside City Cebu
Get up to 50% off from participating stores all Wednesdays of March (click the photo for participating stores)

2. Spa Day

Keep calm and get your spa day on!

A spa is heaven for everyone especially to women. There’s no better pampering to a go-getter woman than a body massage. All the stress and worries physically and mentally reflect on our bodies, which is why it is important to take time for our muscles to relax.

Nuat Thai | Third Floor, Mountain Wing SM Seaside City Cebu

3. Mani-Pedi

Your hands and feet never take a day off, so take care of them.

“Wait till my nail polish dries and I’ll conquer the world.”

Mani-pedi is a routine for women. It’s for hygiene and of course, it gives us extra confidence in our daily battles with life. Give her confidence and there is nothing a woman can’t do.

Poshnails | Third Floor, Mountain Wing SM Seaside City Cebu

4. Comfort food

What diet? Go treat and reward yourself!

The word food itself gives comfort to people. Women indulgence in it like honey to a bee for it will certainly give you a dose of happy hormones. Having a comfort food is a stress reliever and eating it in the company of good friends will make it the perfect escape.

Snack Time | Second Floor, Mountain Wing SM Seaside City Cebu
https://www.facebook.com/smsscitycebu/posts/5746587682021590

5. Occasional catch-ups with friends

Go meet with friends and spread positivity!

A stroll will surely help lighten a woman’s mood. Especially with so many pretty things to look at and places to chill at. It’s the perfect end to a day where you can just sit and absorb the energy of the surroundings.

Live Acoustic Sessions every Friday & Saturday, 5PM at The Alfresco at The Tower Garden of SM Seaside City Cebu 

As a famous line once said: “Here’s to strong women. May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.” Let’s celebrate women and support them at SM Seaside City Cebu! Don’t forget to drop by the Women at Work Pop-up Market at the Mountain Wing Atrium from March 5 to 31!

March 5 – 31, 2021 | Mountain Wing Atrium SM Seaside City Cebu

For more details follow SM Seaside City Cebu’s Official Facebook Page and Instagram Page for more details.

How to get to SM Seaside?

Exact Location: SM Seaside City Cebu in South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City.

BY MYBUS: You can take a FREE MyBus ride from/to BDO Fuente Osmena. Or ride any MyBus from SM City Cebu, Talisay, Mandaue City, Parkmall. 

BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “SM Seaside City Cebu”. Parking space is free.

Granada Beach Resort: Luxury Beach-Side Escape in Boljoon

Beaches always excite us. The sound that the waves make as they kiss the shore is just therapeutic. No wonder why people have always considered the beaches as one of their options when considering a good place to unwind.

Boljoon shelters a place that you might want to include in your itinerary when travelling. Granada Beach Resort is an award-winning luxury beach-side retreat for whale sharks, waterfalls, relaxation and rejuvenation in South Cebu.

Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page

The place is perched on a peninsula where it boasts a panoramic view of the Bohol Sea. Its private beach will satiate all your sandy-skins-and-sandy-toes cravings plus an accessible reef for snorkeling where you can witness a showcase of the rich biodiversity underneath the waters of Boljoon.

During your stay here, you are guaranteed for a peaceful escape from the loads of stress. They have several accommodation types to choose from. Each accommodation type is perfected to suit your style and needs. Chic-designs? View across the swimming pool? Rustic furniture? Name it, Granada Beach Resort has it.

Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page

This adult-only boutique resort has amenities to complete the experience. Whether you choose to dine, drink, de-stress or dive, they have in store for you.

LA VISTA – BAR & BITES BISTRO

Their in-house bar and bistro serves breakfast and an all-day dining menu. You can choose from light bites, local and international cuisines, or daily blackboard specials. Whatever you choose, you are promised with a delightful mouth-watering dining experience. Each dish is cooked to order and prepared with global culinary flair from local fresh produce and seafood.

Or how about making new friends over a cocktail at the bar, or enjoy a glass of locally brewed craft on draft after a day of South Cebu adventure?

Photo from Granada Beach Resort
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page

The bistro’s ambience is hyped with warm lighting and soft music plus a thatched roof and a fresh ocean breeze. Allow yourself to be spoiled with the tranquil view across the beach and bay and the luscious choices on their menu.

MALINAW SPA

Need some kneading on the back and joints? Malinaw Spa can ease-away your stress and tiredness to the natural rhythm of the waves. Their spa offers variety of treatments including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. It’s in an over-water deck that is open to the ocean for a unique and secluded massage. While your therapist relieves any physical tension, the sound of the sea will gently relax your senses for a true feeling of meditation.

Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page

SNORKELLING AND SCUBA DIVING

Few steps off the resort’s private beach, you will find yourself in an underwater world of coral reef.

As a Marine Protected Area, the reef is teeming with aquatic life. They provide complimentary snorkeling equipment for you to discover the numerous species of fish and turtles. Just be sure to avoid any actions that will harm the area and the species.

Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Granada Beach Resort Facebook Page

Their resident PADI instructor can help you enjoy the reef in more depth. You can take your first breaths underwater with a Discover Scuba Diving experience, open-up a world of diving by achieving a PADI Open Water Diver certification or choose to refresh your dive skills and knowledge if you’re already a certified diver.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

ROOM RATES: 

  • Garden Suite: P3,990 per night
    • 1 queen-size bed, good for 2 persons
    • A secluded getaway, Garden Suite has all you need. Offering picturesque views across the swimming pool and garden, this private suite features a vaulted ceiling and thatched roof. The custom-made hardwood queen-size bed with pillow-top mattress is complemented by a wrap-around sofa, rustic furnishings and a rainfall shower.
Photo from Granada Beach Resort
  • Deluxe Room: P3,775 per night
    • 2 queen-size bed, good for 4 persons
    • Their Deluxe Room offers comfort and space, whether you’re a party of 2, 3 or 4. The combination of shabby-chic beach house décor with two custom-made hardwood queen-size beds makes this room the perfect base to escape, explore and experience southern Cebu. Located on the upper terrace with views of the coastline, Deluxe Room also features a corner sofa, a private balcony overlooking the forest, a rainfall shower and modern amenities.
Photo from Granada Beach Resort
  • Luxury Room: P3,625 per night
    • 1 queen-size bed, good for 2 persons
    • Luxury Rooms are furnished with couples in mind and provide views from the upper terrace of the ocean and southern Cebu coastline. A hand-made four-poster queen-size bed with a pillow-top mattress brings a touch of romance to each room. And the ambience is completed by locally produced furniture, modern amenities, a rainfall shower and a private balcony overlooking the forest.
Photo from Granada Beach Resort
  • Terrace Room: P3,300 per night
    • 1 queen-size bed + 1 single bed, good for 3 pesons
    • A hardwood queen-size bed and a single bed make the Terrace Rooms extremely flexible for 2 or 3 guests. Easy access to the ground-floor terrace and swimming pool, locally produced furniture, modern amenities, a rainfall shower and a private balcony in the garden all add to the popularity of the Terrace Rooms.
Photo from Granada Beach Resort
  • Superior Room: P2,990
    • 3 single beds, good for 3 persons
    • The beds are hand-made, contrasting with the white-painted shabby-chic décor and locally produced rustic furniture. Modern amenities, a rainfall shower, and a private balcony overlooking the forest complete the room. And the best part? The views from the upper terrace across the ocean to your next adventure.
Photo from Granada Beach Resort

Note: These are the room rates as shown on the resort’s website as of 11/27/2020 for a 12/3/2020 to 12/4/2020 (Deluxe, Luxury, Terrace, Superior) and 1/3/2021 to 1/4/2021 (Garden Suites) reservation. Please note that room rates may vary depending on the season. Also, all advertised room rates are based on double occupancy (2 persons). Unless otherwise stated, advertised rates are inclusive of breakfast for 2 persons and all government taxes of the Philippines. Advertised ‘non-refundable’ rates exclude breakfast, which can be purchased at the resort.

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Natalio Bacalso Avenue, Boljoon, Southern Cebu, 6024, Philippines — approx. 3.5 hours away from Cebu City.

BY BUS: Go to the Cebu South Bus Terminal and take a bus for Oslob, Liloan Port or Bato. Tell the driver you want to get off at the South Granada signpost. The place is a short 500m walk from the main road. You can also alight in Boljoon town and ask a tricycle to bring you the Granada Beach Resort. Total travel time is around 3-4 hours.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Granada Beach Resort” in Boljoon. Parking space is available.

Cebu logs 388 new cases on March 4

On Thursday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of March 4, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 388 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 200 new recoveries, and 8 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 37,492, while the active cases increased to 6,359 (from 6,179).

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 18,134 (+143 new)
– Total recoveries: 14,063 (+39 new)
– Total deaths: 755 (+2 new)
– Active cases: 3,316

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 4,384 (+51 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,385 (+59 new)
– Total deaths: 125 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 874

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 4,394 (+68 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,276 (+42 new)
– Total deaths: 185 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 933

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 10,580 (+126 new)
– Total recoveries: 8,863 (+60 new)
– Total deaths: 481 (+5 new)
– Active cases: 1,236

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 6,359
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 37,492 (+388 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 29,587 (+200 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,546 (+8 new*)

A total of 3,609 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.

DOH-7 Full Report (Central Visayas):

2021 Guide: Getting a BIR/TIN ID in Cebu

Being employed in the Philippines means that you need to secure a TIN or a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the BIR or Bureau of Internal Revenue. Moreover, securing a TIN is not limited to employees but those who wish to start a business or a corporation.

It should be noted that most companies these days are the ones who would process their employees’ TIN after filling up some forms but if you want to do it yourself, following these steps can get you started.

Who Can Apply for a TIN

Certain individuals and entities can only secure TIN as long as they belong to the category below:

  1. Self-employed and mixed income individuals
  2. Individuals or employees earning purely compensation income
  3. Corporations, partnerships, including government agencies and instrumentalities (GAI), Local Government Units (LGUs)
  4. One time taxpayers with no previously issued TIN
  5. Persons registering under Executive Order 98 (those securing TIN to transact with government offices.
  6. Estates and trusts

Requirements

Depending on your classification, the requirements and steps may vary in securing your TIN. Read carefully below the classifications of individuals and entities on how to secure your TIN as well as the documents needed.

FOR SELF EMPLOYED AND MIXED INCOME INDIVIDUALS

  1. Filled-up BIR Form 1901
  2. Photocopy of Mayor’s Permit, or duly received Application for Business Permit if still on process
  3. NSO Birth Certificate
  4. Marriage Contract (if applicable)
  5. Professional Regulation Commission ID (if applicable)
  6. Occupational Tax Receipt or Professional Tax Receipt
  7. Contract or Company Certificate of Employment
  8. Other documents which may include the following, if applicable:
  9. Contract of Lease
  10. DTI Certificate of Registration for Business Name
  11. Proof of registration/permit to operate from economic development authorities
  12. Franchise agreement
  13. Sworn statement of capital
  14. Working permit for non-resident
  15. Waiver of husband to claim additional exemption
  16. NSO Birth Certificate of declared dependents

FOR INDIVIDUALS EARNING PURELY COMPENSATION INCOME

  1. Filled-up BIR Form 1902
  2. NSO Birth Certificate or any valid ID bearing applicant’s complete name, birth date and signature
  3. Certificate of Employment
  4. Marriage Contract (if applicable)

FOR CORPORATIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS including GOCCs, GAI and LGUs

  1. Filled-up BIR Form 1903
  2. Certificate of Registration issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC); articles of incorporation/partnership
  3. Mayor’s Permit
  4. Other documents which may include the following, if applicable:
  5. Contract of lease
  6. Certificate of authority if Barangay Micro Business Enterprise registered
  7. Franchise agreement
  8. License to do business in the Philippines, if a resident foreign corporation
  9. Proof of registration from economic development authorities

For cooperatives, a copy of Certificate of Registration from Cooperative Development Authority

  • For GOCCs, GAI and LGUs; copy of the Unit of Agency’s Charter

FOR ONE TIME TAXPAYERS (WITH NO PREVIOUSLY ISSUED TIN)

  1. Filled-up BIR FORM 1904
  2. NSO Birth Certificate or any valid ID bearing the applicant’s complete name, address, birth date, and signature
  3. Marriage Contract, if applicable

Procedure for Applying TIN

For Self Employed and Mixed Income Individuals

  1. Fill up BIR form 1901 submit it along with other requirements needed by the RDO.
  2. At the Authorized Agent Banks of the RDO, pay the annual registration fee of Php 500.
  1. Pay the Documentary Stamp Tax (Php15) and other certification fees as may be deemed necessary.
  2. Wait for the RDO to issue your Certificate of Registration.

For Individuals Earning Purely Compensation Income

  1. Fill up BIR form 1902 provided and submit it along with other requirements needed by the employer.
  2. The employer will then fill in the necessary sections of the form.
  3. The form will then be forwarded to the RDO having jurisdiction over the place of work where the employee is expected to report.

For Corporations and Partnerships

  1. Fill up BIR form 1903 and together with the required documents, submit it to the Revenue District Office or RDO.
  2. At the Authorized Agent Banks of the RDO, pay the annual registration fee of Php 500.
  1. Pay the Documentary Stamp Tax (Php15) and other certification fees as may be deemed necessary.
  2. Wait for the RDO to issue your Certificate of Registration.
  3. For corporations, Documentary Stamp Tax on the Articles of Incorporation must be paid within 5 days after the close of the month following the date of issuance of the same Articles.

For One Time Taxpayers

  1. Fill up BIR form 1903 and together with the required documents, submit it to the Revenue District Office or RDO.
  2. Be informed that there for one-time taxpayers, there may be different steps. depending on the jurisdiction and nature of the transactions. To be sure ask the officers available for the proper procedure.

Revenue District Offices in Cebu

  • REVENUE DISTRICT NO. 80 (RDO-80) – Revenue District Office No. 80 – Mandaue City
  • REVENUE DISTRICT NO. 81 (RDO-81) – Revenue District Office No. 81 – Cebu City North
  • REVENUE DISTRICT NO. 82 (RDO-82) – Revenue District Office No. 82 – Cebu City South
  • REVENUE DISTRICT NO. 83 (RDO-83) – Revenue District Office No. 83 – Talisay, Cebu

Securing a TIN is a basic requirement and an individual should only get theirs once. Having more than one can be held as a criminal offense, and having granted this number is a privilege.

Create Happy Memories at Kasadya Beach in Ronda

“Kasadya” is a Cebuano word that means lively or happy and the calm and peaceful atmosphere that Kasadya Beach possesses will surely bring about everyone’s inner happiness.

Kasadya Beach is a long strip of white sand by the roadside of Brgy. Sta. Cruz in Ronda. The cluster of coconut trees dotting the white sandy shores will remind visitors of the majestic Boracay. Combine this stunning view with the quietness of Ronda and the refreshing breeze from the sea and Kasadya Beach becomes a haven of relaxation.

Photo by Ralph Ray Maribao
Photo by Ralph Ray Maribao
Photo by Aljin Romo

Spanning 6 kilometers of pure white sand and lining the edges of Ronda, Kasadya Beach is truly a wonder already by itself. This is the reason why this public beach is frequented by many locals and other Cebuanos to calm their nerves or simply just appreciate something beautiful.

It is a famous spot for picnics or get-togethers with friends, family, and other loved ones since it doesn’t require any fees. Some groups even bring their own tables and chairs, hunker down in their own comfortable spaces, and have a good laugh with the company.

Photo by Kenneth Verzosa
Photo by Kenneth Verzosa
Photo by Kenneth Verzosa

Due to the fame that Kasadya Beach has gotten from various groups of people, the local government of Ronda decided to give attention to the care and beautification of Kasadya Beach.

The biggest project that the local government unit has implemented for Kasadya Beach is the installation of the floating cottage to allow visitors to fully experience the beauty of Kasadya Beach – from the shore to the sea. And just like any typical beach in Cebu, Kasadya Beach possesses the same refreshing turquoise waters that are perfect for shaking out the heat.

Photo by Keith Angelo Bacus
Photo by Kian Mahinay Vlogs
Photo by Kian Mahinay Vlogs
Photo by Sharmaine Campogan Pernia
Photo by Sharmaine Campogan Pernia

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

FEES

  • Entrance Fee: None as of the moment
  • Cottage Fee (Usage): P70 per person

NOTE: There are no cottages in the area but you can bring your own tables, chairs, or tents.

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Brgy. Sta. Cruz, Ronda, Southern Cebu — approx. 2 hours away from the city

BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Ride a bus that will pass by Ronda. You may ask the drivers which buses will pass by Ronda. Kasadya Beach is just by the side of the road. Just ask the driver to drop you off at Kasadya Beach.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Kasadya Road” in Ronda, Cebu. Just ask the locals for specific directions. Parking space is available upon arrival.

Cebu logs 426 new cases on March 3

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 March 3, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 426 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 261 new recoveries, and 14 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 37,105, while the active cases increased to 6,179 (from 6,025).

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 17,991 (+159 new)
– Total recoveries: 14,024 (+92 new)
– Total deaths: 753 (+6 new)
– Active cases: 3,214

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 4,333 (+65 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,327 (+30 new)
– Total deaths: 124 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 882

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 4,327 (+64 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,234 (+36 new)
– Total deaths: 185 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 908

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 10,454 (+138 new)
– Total recoveries: 8,803 (+103 new)
– Total deaths: 476 (+7 new)
– Active cases: 1,175

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 6,179
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 37,105 (+426 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 29,388 (+261 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,538 (+14 new*)

A total of 3,681 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.

DOH-7 Full Report (Central Visayas):

Meet Leo Borromeo, Cebu’s Phenomenal Young Speedcuber

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If you think you have already witnessed the best of Cebu, think again. There’s a Cebuano who is currently enjoying the limelight for bringing pride not only for Cebu, but for the entire country in the field of Rubik’s Cube solving.

He is so good in this craft that he can solve a Rubik’s cube puzzle before you can even finish reading this sentence.

He is Leo Borromeo, 10, who hails from Cebu and is the first Filipino to solve a Rubik’s cube in under six seconds in a competition in 2017. He continuously breaks records after defeating two older and top speedcubers – Tymon Kolasiński of Poland (the number one speedcuber in Europe) and Feliks Zemdegs (the current world’s greatest speedcuber) – in recent unofficial online speed cubing competitions.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND TRACK RECORD

To date, Leo has attended 26 WCA competitions. He currently ranks 10th in the world for 3×3 average (6.31 seconds) and 15th in the world for 3×3 OH average (11.01 seconds). Braving the time zone difference from the opposite side of the world, Leo is a two-time winner of Cubing at Home, a large ultra-competitive online speedcubing event series.

Photo by John Cañares

He began cubing in the Cebu Open 2015. He finished 28th in the competition, didn’t going past the first round. Two years after, he paved his way to the top and won the Cebu Open 2017, sealing it with a 7.83 single and 9.47 average.

His unforgettable competition, he said, was the 2018 Asian Championship held in Taipei, Taiwan where he was runner-up and beat Zemdegs in a 3x3x3 event.

#AsianChampionships2018 in Taipei, Taiwan
#AsianChampionships2018 in Taipei, Taiwan

In 2019, he competed in World Championships in Melbourne, Australia. Based on his current records in World Cubing Association, his fastest solve was 5.12 seconds and his fastest average is 6.31 seconds.

HOW DID THE INTEREST START?

Too much on the plate for a 10-year old, right?

Leo thinks cubing is fun and he likes the competitive aspect of it. He said he developed his interest in the said game after he watched a video of Zemdegs doing it in December 2014. At the age of 7, he started to self-learn and applied the techniques and steps he learned online since no one in his family is into this mental game.

His mom thought he could get into cubing since he was decent at building stuff with Legos.

LIFE OUTSIDE SPEEDCUBING

While it’s true that Leo has been so engrossed with Rubik’s cubing, he is still able to strike a good life-school-speedcubing balance.

He currently excels in his academics and in fact, is a math varsity at his school. Also, he considers football as his favorite sport and plays it whenever he can. The kid is also an avid fan of rock and metal bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, Metallica and Pantera among others.

He also plays guitar. Some of his favorite guitarists are Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Paul Gilbert, Jason Becker, and Nuno Bettencourt.

FUTURE PLANS

Three years from now, Leo said he hopes to still be cubing and to have a couple more records. He aims to improve his standings by joining official WCA competition after this pandemic end.

In a day, he usually does around 400 solves of 3×3, 4×4, and 5×5. His goals for his next competition are a sub 6 3×3 average, a sub 5 3×3 single, a sub 20 4×4 single, a sub 26 4×4 average, and more.

“I tried to do my assignments first. Whenever, I have a time to break, I practice. Because of school, about two hours,” he added.

Because of the current pandemic, the live and in-person events of the WCA have been put on hold. However, some cubing vloggers such as the “LazerOMonkey” organized events like the Monkey League, which are done online.

WHAT IS SPEEDCUBING?

Speedcubing is an event or competition for persons who can competitively solve Rubik’s Cube, a 3D combination puzzle first invented in 1974.

For most of us, it only takes a genius to solve the cube in seconds. But Leo has a different take.

He doesn’t think intelligence plays a factor in speedcubing and that it is just a matter of constant practice. He further added that one can’t be a world-renowned speedcuber immediately as it is a process and that one needs to practice.

He also doesn’t think that a competitive mindset is necessary, but it definitely makes cubing more enjoyable – to challenge yourself against other cubers.

Cubing has also been the source of friendship for a lot of people including Leo. He confessed that most of the friends he has made from competitions are mostly Cebu speedcubers. There are also from Manila and some international top cubers like Tymon and Feliks.

At a young age, Leo Borromeo has already achieved a lot in the field of speedcubing and he certainly has a bright future ahead of him. Few years from now, we shouldn’t be surprised anymore if this kid is already rubbing elbows with the best of the best. He deserves the spotlight he’s on right now and he can prove it to us – in seconds.

Seafari Resort: Action-Packed Yet Refreshing Resort in Oslob

Your next visit to Oslob might just give you the extra kick you need.

Few minutes away from the well-known whale shark spot in town is a resort that treats you with both the refreshing vibes in a beach stay and the adventure thrills you get when canyoneering, mountain-trekking or diving.

Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page

Seafari Resort is an adventure resort tucked in a breathtaking cliff area in Brgy. Tanawan, Oslob. It prides itself for the luxurious and tranquil atmosphere its guests enjoy during the stay. Here you will find their swimming pools, air-conditioned rooms, studios and apartments with sea view which caters comfort and relaxation.

The catch? You need to traverse more than 200 steps down the cliff to access these amenities.

Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page
Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page

For some gastronomic adventure, you can enjoy the tasty dishes served at their in-house restaurant. They serve international food for breakfast, lunch and dinner at very affordable prices. Their chilled drinks and cocktails at their bar are must-tries too. Chillin’ by the poolside with the heavenly view of the sea becomes more rewarding with a sip of your favorite beer.

Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page

Aside from overnight stays, the resort also accepts long-term apartment rentals, from 3 – 6 – 12 months and more, all-inclusive for safe and healthy living, resort life at the beach and nature.

The best part of booking an accommodation at Seafari Resort is that they can arrange exciting excursion activities at reasonable prices so that you can enjoy the different top-rated tourist destinations in the southern parts of Cebu.

EXCITING EXCURSION ACTIVITIES

The place, being just a stone throw away from many must-visit spots in the south, also offers exciting day tour packages to these places. Check them out:

  • Diving (Whale Shark Area/Sumilon Island) – Seafari Resort can arrange this activity for your convenience so you can enjoy snorkeling under the waters of Sumilon Island and Oslob Whale Shark Area that are teeming with abundant marine biodiversity.
whale shark butanding oslob cebu
Photo by @xkflyaway via IG
  • Whale Shark Encounter – Whale shark watching in Cebu started last September 2011 and it became popular all over the world when the news hit in the internet last November 2011. Don’t miss to be fascinated with the friendly creatures of the sea as you enjoy watching and swimming with the friendly whale sharks in Oslob, Cebu.
Oslob Whale Shark Watching
  • Sumilon Island – Sumilon is a 24-hectare island located in the southeastern tip of Cebu that is a favorite spot for diving enthusiasts because of its marine flora and fauna species. Its white sand beaches are a venue for all beach sports and activities. It was declared a fish sanctuary in 1974 by the initiative of Silliman University Marine Reserve.
Sumilon Island Cebu (1)
Photo by @thomito12
  • Tumalog Falls – Another must-see and recently discovered place in Oslob is the exceptional beauty of Tumalog Falls. The falls have mini-umbrellas that create fine strands of cold, fresh water cascading on a rough mossy wall.
Photo by @sandywadingan via IG
  • Oslob-Boljoon Tour – Oslob-Boljoon Tour caters the round-trip transfer from the resort to places where most of the tourists love to visit aside from whale watching. This tour includes going to Oslob’s known Baluarte, Oslob Cuartel Heritage Park, Oslob Parish Church, Museo Oslob, Boljoon’s Eli Rock and Boljoon’s Church.
Photo by Besilda Paula
Photo by Roxette Abella
Photo by GL Wu
Photo by Miguel Buna
Photo by ED Mar
Photo by Ronex D Bonex
  • Aguinid Falls – Aguinid Falls is unique because it is not a single waterfall. Rather, it is a system of waterfalls that runs for a couple of kilometers along Tangbo River. Since it was promoted as an eco-tourism destination, locals and foreigners have witnessed this one-of-a-kind, multi-tiered waterfall system.
Photo by Liliosa Nilooban
  • Osmeña Peak – Osmeña Peak, the highest mountain in Cebu is a cluster of green jagged hills like a deformed twin of Chocolate Hills of Bohol hugging the shorelines of Badian. It is nestled in a serene town with low temperatures dotted with pine trees.
Photo by Joevercon Dugos
  • Kandungaw Peak/Strawberry Farm – Sergio’s Farm brings strawberries closer to Cebuanos. It is a farm with a goal to promote the cultivation among local farmers and consumption by Cebuanos of naturally-grown vegetables and fruits without the synthetic chemicals and fertilizers.
Kandungaw Peak
  • Kawasan Falls – Kawasan Falls is a three-layered waterfall system located at Barangay Matutinao. The water is fresh and crystal clear. The magical landscape of Kawasan Falls is very cool and refreshing – an ideal paradise to anyone who loves and want to get intimate with nature.
Kawasan Falls
  • Canyoneering Cebu – Canyoneering or Canyoning is the term used for traveling in canyons using a variety of techniques that may include other outdoor activities such as walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, rappelling, and swimming.
Photo from discover.cebu.gov.ph
  • Miraculous Shrine of Simala – Sacred and downright beautiful, the Simala Shrine is a splendid monastery with a medieval castle-like architecture. Known as a miraculous church, Simala Shrine is usually flocked with pilgrims who would pray and show their devotions to Mother Mary.
simala-ryan_serna
Photo by Ryan Solano Serna

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

DAY USE:

  • Entrance Fee: P750/person (w/ lunch plate)
  • Opening Hours: 10AM – 5PM

ALL INCLUSIVE USE:

  • Entrance Fee: P1,500/person (w/ breakfast, lunch/dinner plate, snack, (soft)drinks)
  • Opening Hours: 7AM – 10:30PM

ROOM RATES:

Photo from Seafari Resort Facebook Page

DESTINATION/ACTIVITIES PACKAGE RATES:

  • Whale Shark Area Diving: P3,500/person (diving w/ gear); P2800/person (diving w/o gear)
  • Sumilon Island Diving:
    • P3,000/person (1-hour dive); P4,000/person (2-hours dive)
    • Diving rate does not include the boat transfer therefore, guests are obliged to pay P1,700 for boat transfer to Sumilon dive spot
  • Whale Shark Encounter:
    • Viewing: P300/person (Filipinos); P500/person (Foreigners)
    • Snorkeling: P500/person (Filipinos); P1000/person (Foreigners)
  • Sumilon Island (Boat Rental):
    • P1,700 (1-4 persons)
    • P2,000 (5-8 persons)
    • P2,500 (9-12 persons)
    • P3,000 (13-16 persons)
    •  P3,500 (17-20 persons)
  • Tumalog Falls (Jeepney/Multicab): 
    • P400 (2 persons); P150/person (excess)
    • Entrance Fee included good for 1 hour
    • Excess waiting time: P100/30 mins
  • Oslob-Boljoon Tour (Jeepney/Multicab):
    • 1-3 persons: P1,500
    • 4-6 persons: P2,000
    • 7-9 persons: P2,500
    • 10-12 persons: P3,000
    • 13-15 persons: P3,500
    • Good for 3 hours; excess waiting time (P500/30 mins)
  • Aguinid Falls (Jeepney/Multicab): 
    • P1,500 (1-3 persons); P250/excess person
    • Good for 3 hours; excess waiting time P500/30 minutes
    • Includes entrance fee
  • Osmeña Peak (Jeepney/Multicab):
    • P2,500 (1-2 persons); P250/excess person
    • Good for 5 hours; excess waiting time (P500/30 minutes)
    • Includes entrance fee
  • Kandungaw Peak/Strawberry Farm with Osmeña Peak (Jeepney or Muticab)
    • P3,500 (1-2 persons); P250/excess person
    • Good for 6 hours
    • Includes entrance fee
  • Kawasan Falls (Jeepney/Multicab):
    • P2,000 (1-2 persons); P250/excess persons
    • Good for 6 hours; excess waiting time (P500/30 minutes)
  • Canyoneering Cebu (Jeepney/Multicab)
    • P5,500 (2 persons); P2,000/excess person
    • Good for 8 hours; excess waiting time (P500/30 minutes)
  • Miraculous Shrine
    • Option 1
      • Oslob to Sibonga and vice versa
      • P3,500 for 2 persons; P500/excess person
      • good for 2 hours
    • Option 2
      • From Cebu City and pass by the Shrine
      • P500/person
      • Good for 2 hours

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Exact location: Cuancua-ay, Tanawan, Oslob, Southern Cebu — approx. 3 from Cebu City.

BY BUS: Head to South Bus Terminal and take a Ceres Bus bound to Oslob. Inform the conductor that you are going to Seafari Resort.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Seafari Resort” in Oslob. Parking space is available.

Cebu logs 325 new cases on March 2

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 March 2, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 325 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 364 new recoveries, and 11 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 36,680, while the active cases decreased to 6,025 (from 6,074).

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 17,832 (+151 new)
– Total recoveries: 13,934 (+25 new)
– Total deaths: 747 (+9 new)
– Active cases: 3,151

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 4,268 (+41 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,297 (+78 new)
– Total deaths: 123 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 848

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 4,264 (+89 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,199 (+50 new)
– Total deaths: 185 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 880

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 10,316 (+44 new)
– Total recoveries: 8,701 (+211 new)
– Total deaths: 469 (+2 new)
– Active cases: 1,146

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 6,025
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 36,680 (+325 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 29,131 (+364 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,524 (+11 new*)

A total of 2,844 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.

DOH-7 Full Report (Central Visayas):

Ride the waves: Skimboarding in Asturias

Mother nature has certainly blessed Cebu with its abundance of beautiful  natural beaches and white sands. And it seems like it doesn’t just end there for with the rise of these attractions so does all the water activities that you can enjoy.

Skimboarding, also known as Skimming, can now be experienced in Asturias, Cebu. Located in Power Beach, this board sport is much similar to surfing only that this sport starts on the beach riding the thin waves using their momentum.

Photo from James Badili | Juan Victor Ilustrisimo | Jep Signe

Using a skimboard, which is much smaller than a surfboard and has no fins, they glide on the water’s surface while meeting an incoming breaking wave then ride it back to shore until it fades away.

Although there are injuries or bruises that comes with the sport, if the waters is calm and only produces small waves, there will be none of that and drowning is also nearly impossible because the sport is done in shallow waters.

Nevertheless, we should always be careful in every activity and we should all enjoy the sport safely.

Photo from James Badili | Juan Victor Ilustrisimo | Jep Signe
Photo from James Badili | Juan Victor Ilustrisimo | Jep Signe
Photo from James Badili | Juan Victor Ilustrisimo | Jep Signe
Photo from James Badili | Juan Victor Ilustrisimo | Jep Signe

Note: As policies frequently change due to the ongoing pandemic, it’s best to contact first the LGU’s Tourism Department prior to your visit.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES:

  • Entrance Fee: P20 per head
  • Skimboard Rental: P100 for 1 hour

Other Information:

  • Opening hours: 8AM to 5PM daily
  • Asturias Tourism LGU: 0923-160-7074
  • Email address: N/A
  • Facebook Page: N/A

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Power Beach, Tangad, Poblacion, Asturias, Northwestern Cebu — approx. 2 hours away from Cebu City.

BY VHIRE (via Transcentral Highway): Take a V-hire from the Ayala terminal and drop off at either the Asturias Municipal Hall or Asturias Central Elementary School. From there, ride a habal-habal (motorbike) going to Power Beach.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Power Beach” in Poblacion, Asturias.