Milk tea lovers, we’ve got good news for you! We are here to save you from having to worry about what to bring to your Christmas Party with family or friends.
This craze has started even before tha pandemic. The milk tea craving is a drink everyone just couldn’t get enough of. And even if there are a lot of new openings, one cup isn’t just enough to quench our thirst for this sweet drink.
Share your obsession for this drink with your family and friends this Christmas and bring a gallon of milk tea during your party.
On December 15, Macao Imperial Tea will be offering its new Partea Gallon this Christmas season. For only P899, you will be able to share this sweet, caffeinated drink with 8 to 10 of your friends.
Branches of MIT in Cebu:
Ayala Central Bloc (now open)
Robinsons Fuente (now open)
SM Seaside City Cebu (re-opening to be announced)
SM City Cebu (re-opening to be announced)
Island Central Mall Mactan (new branch opening soon)
Wherever you are in the Philippines, you can get their ‘Partea Gallon’ because this is made available in all their branches. So, save the date and tell your family and friends that you’re bringing this for potluck. Good luck!
Fantasies have always been a way of escaping reality and have always provided comfort especially during lonely times.
El Paradisio offers the same dream-like escape with a private property that’s nestled kilometers away from the bustling metro.
El Paradisio sits atop a low-lying cliff with natural pools of the cool glistening ocean slapping the face of the rock. With interiors that are adorned with eccentric and nature-themed designs, El Paradisio fully immerses its guests in the peace and calm of Tabogon’s thriving wildlife.
The rooms are surrounded by lush plants and trees while also having a picturesque view of turquoise waters. Rustic furnitures made out of wood and other native materials also decorate the rooms, seemingly blending with the natural background.
Aside from a completely relaxing paradise, the resort is also surrounded by free-spirited fauna to go with the abundant flora. Arabian horses frolic on the grassy fields of El Paradisio, stomping around showing visitors that they own the place. They can occasionally be seen feeding on grass or just galloping around.
The horses are completely harmless and have been trained by the owner so guests don’t have to worry about any horse-related accidents. Moreover, everyone’s favorite four-legged friends are allowed to spend a stress-free vacation with their fur parents in the resort. A patio is also placed by the cliff serving a dual purpose – to enjoy the seabreeze and to have a VIP seat for the occasional turtle viewing.
Outside the comfortable spaces of the rooms, there are many spots in the resort that are perfect for meditating and just basking in the tranquil atmosphere. If guests prefer the verdant sceneries of the plants and trees, then they can lounge on the few wooden benches scattered around the resort or they can gather their friends around a campfire.
Sun loungers can also be found near the edge of the cliff for a panoramic view of the resort and the sea. They also have a swimming pool that’s also facing the ocean side with the same scenic view that’s improved by taking a refreshing dip in the salt pool water. Another alternative is dipping in the blue waters at the bottom teeming vibrant corals and various underwater creatures.
The natural atmosphere of El Paradisio will pair magnificently with the array of traditional Filipino dishes that they serve which can be eaten anywhere in the resort – in the comfort of the rooms, near the sea, or in the presence of nature. Cooking areas are also provided to give the guests the freedom of cooking their own food.
The untamed nature and exclusive space in El Paradisio will surely give one of the best and most relaxing tropical experiences in Cebu with 150,000 square meters of their sustainable eco-resort and various nature-themed activities and facilities.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
ROOM RATES:
Bahay Kubo Cottage: ₱6,000 per night, good for 5 persons w/ breakfast
Iguana Cottage: ₱4,500 per night, good for 2 persons w/ breakfast
Gate House Cottage: ₱4,000 per night, good for 2 persons w/ breakfast
Additional Guests: ₱500/person per night, w/o breakfast
A stay of 2 or more nights are given a 15% discount.
Exact location: Camoboan, Tabogon, Northern Cebu — approx. 3 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu North Bus Terminal. From the terminal, take a bus bound for Bogo and alight at the Damulog Crossing towards Tabogon. From Damulog crossing, someone can pick you up and take you directly to the resort for P1000 pesos so don’t forget to contact the resort beforehand.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “El Paradisio Resort” in Tabogon. Parking space is available upon arrival.
Commuting is about to drastically change and is bound to become easier for the residents of Lilo-an, Cebu and residents of the north.
Pier 88 is a joint project between the private sector, local government unit, and Archdiocese of Cebu. It is a P1-Billion seaport project that will be developed by the private company, Topline, on a 1-hectare property in Barangay Poblacion leased by the Archdiocese of Cebu. It will serve as a connection to Mactan and Cebu, the two major cities of the island. Not only will it be serving passengers but it will also be catering businesses as well.
Photo by Hon. Duke Frasco, Mayor of Liloan
GOOD NEWS FOR COMMUTERS AND BUSINESSES
The benefits of Pier 88 is two-pronged with it being an easy and alternative route for commuters as well as a gateway for business opportunities. About 10,000 people from Northern Cebu work in Mactan and the metro and a few of the residents are studying in schools and universities in the city. Before the construction of the pier, travelling to and from the city has become an everyday predicament for them and a common source of stress.
“It takes us one to two hours on the road. And it will take us longer if there will be accidents so this will really ease up our stress in commuting to the city,” expressed one of the residents.
ROUTES AND DAILY TRIPS
Three passenger ferries with a capacity of 300 will be utilized that will be traversing the channels going to Mactan and Cebu City. There will be 10 trips a day in both routes to accommodate the amount of passengers crossing.
These ferries will be docking at the Mactan Wharf near Mactan Export Processing Zone (MEPZ) for Mactan and at Pier 3 in the Cebu City Port for Cebu. Trips to Cebu and Mactan will soon be cut from 2 hours to 30-45 minutes by sea.
Topline Express (Passenger Boat)
GROUNDBREAKING AND TIMELINE
Groundbreaking for the development of Pier 88 was already done last March 2019 and attended by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, Liloan Mayor Christina Frasco, and Governor Gwendolyn Garcia.
Photo from ToplinePhoto by Hon. Duke Frasco, Mayor of Liloan
The port development is expected to have 3 phases and the first phase was finished between 2019 and 2020. Currently, construction works are being continued on the new port and is estimated to be completed around the third or fourth quarter of 2021.
The mountain of Calvary is a significant place in the bible where Jesus was crucified. The mountain also serves as a reminder of the love and sacrifice that Jesus Christ gave to save everyone from their sins.
Calvary Mountain Station of the Cross in Sirao is a place of worship that aims to remind its visitors of Jesus Christ’s love and devotion. The name “Calvary Mountain Stations of the Cross” was chosen to reflect the way of the cross and encourage believers to cherish and practice the values taught to us by the bible.
It was developed by the same faithful follower of Christ who felt a calling from God. In 2013, Miss Estrella Rigodon received a calling to develop a parcel of land in Sirao where she would be able to share God’s providence.
The very first structure to be developed was the giant Cross which now rests at the top of the chapel and serves as the most prominent feature of Calvary Mountain Stations of the Cross. From there, construction of the other parts of the worshipping place seemed to easily follow.
The first thing that greets visitors are serene angels that seemingly usher visitors to the different parts of Calvary Mountain Stations of the Cross. A fountain can be found to the right and at the left is Jesus Christ framed and standing on a large patch of grass. The main staircase is a straightforward path that leads visitors from the bottom all the way to the entrance of the chapel.
Rails and subtle inclines are also present on both sides of the main staircase to serve as alternative paths. Well-maintained plants and regularly trimmed grass contribute to the serenity of the place. The surroundings of the chapel are also blessed with vibrant plants and trees which breathe life into Calvary Mountain Stations of the Cross.
The environment of Calvary Mountain Stations of the Cross and the gentle breeze of Sirao are both great gifts from above that allow faithful followers to practice their faith in peace and reconnect with their souls.
Exact location: Sitio Langub, Brgy. Sirao, Cebu City — a few kilometers away from Sirao Flower Farm, 30 minutes from the city proper.
BY TAXI: Find your way to J.Y. Square in Lahug. It is the best place to go to since there are many options to choose from to get the Calvary Mountain Stations of the Cross. One of the easiest ways is to hail a taxi from J.Y. Square. The nearest landmark is the Sirao Flower Farm but it is still quite a ways away. Just ask the driver to head to Langub-Sirao road and you will eventually reach Calvary Mountain Stations of the Cross.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Calvary Mountain Stations of the Cross Stations of the Cross” in Sirao. Parking space is available upon arrival.
Did you know that Bubble Tea, also known as black pearl/boba, was invented in the 1980’s in Taiwan?
The “Milktea for life” motto has originated there so it’s no wonder that they serve the best of the best.
Here in Cebu, ITealicious brings Taiwan’s best as they offer premium Taiwan based milk tea and other products such as brewed teas and coffee.
IT Park branch (near Harrison Park, across Zerenity Hotel)IT Park branch (near Harrison Park, across Zerenity Hotel)
Affordable “me time”
Who said that having some “me time” should be expensive? ITealicious offers a variety of delicious Milk Teas and Coffee that would take all the stress away without stressing your budget too.
With their premium Taiwanese milk tea, a sit down with its nature feels and some good music, they have opened 9 branches all over Metro Cebu in just two years.
Staying at home? ITealicious is on foodpanda and GrabFood too!
Best-selling milk tea | Mactan (Wok Restaurant Maribago branch)AS Fortuna (across JCentre Mall)Guadalupe, Cebu City (Emilio Osmena St.)Subangdaku, Mandaue City (ADG IT center)Jones Ave.(beside 7-11 going to VCMC)
Creamy and Luscious
ITealicious has surely lived up to their name for their milkteas are creamy and oh so luscious. They are also very generous in their sinkers ensuring customer satisfaction. The Thai milk tea and Taro milk tea are a must-try for they are creating quite a buzz.
iTealicious is on foodpanda & Grabfood!Two cups are always better than one!
Chocolate & Coffee Goodness
Good news for those who utterly loves chocolates and are crazy for coffee for they can be a part of a perfectly balanced diet if managed well.
ITealicious also has milk teas with dark chocolate and Oreo that will boost your endorphin levels sky high and a coffee collection for your daily good coffee fix.
They also serve other drink products like Yakult fruit teas, brewed teas, refreshers and even has chia seeds as an add-on.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Best-sellers:
Dark chocolate milktea
Okinawa milktea
Wintermelon milktea
Menu:
Itealicious Cebu Branches:
APAS – IT Park – San Miguel Road, Apas, Cebu City, Cebu (near Harrison Park across Zerenity Hotel)
How to get there? Ride any jeepney going to IT Park. Drop off near the Avida Tower building (across Sugbo Mercado). From there, you will see a road in between Avida Tower and McDo. Walk a little for about 2-3 minutes then you will arrive at iTealicious Lahug branch, just few meters from Harrison Park.
SUBANGDAKU – ADG IT Center, Lopez Jaena Street, Mandaue City, Cebu
MACTAN – Gf Jinju Square bldg. Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City
GUADALUPE – Emilio Osmena St. (across Planet Vegis)
AS FORTUNA – Across J Centre Mall (beside Ngo Hiong Express)
CABANTAN – Cardinal Rosales Ave. (near Keppel)
JONES AVE. – 311 Conchita Building, Osmeña Blvd. Cebu City (beside 7-11 going to VCMC)
LABANGON – Katipunan St. Labangon Town Center (at Ho Ngohiong)
BULACAO – Highway Bulacao, Cebu City, 6000 (across Prince Warehouse Club at Ho Ngohiong)
Moalboal at the surface may look like a small town but dive under its waters and you will discover the rich marine life that resides in the coastal town.
One of the most famous marine events which can only be witnessed at this corner of Cebu is the Sardine Run – a natural phenomenon where large schools of sardines gather near the shore. The Sardine Run can be experienced just a few meters from the shores of Panagsama Beach along with the stunning view of vibrant corals and other underwater species.
At the heart of Panagsama Beach is the Savedra Beach BungalowsResort with many dive shops and restaurants just walking distances from the resort – one of its strongest advantages from the other nearby resorts. It has 10 rooms which are all equally peaceful and relaxing and fully equipped with air conditioning, hot/cold showers, and refrigerators.
Savedra Beach Bungalows Resort may even be considered as the “Diver’s retreat” due to its proximity to many dive shops and restos, making it really appealing and easy-to-reach after diving sessions. They even offer scuba diving packages which makes things much easier for divers and diving enthusiasts.
Aside from being a strategic location for divers, the bungalows still have the typical beach setup with a breathtaking view of the sea and an alluring beachfront that beckons guests to go for a swim.
Photo by Olesya Kovalenko
Moreover, since it is at the heart of Panagsama Beach, the bungalows sit at the perfect spot near the reef where turtles swim so snorkeling is an option for an activity.
Lastly and most importantly, the veranda just right outside the rooms has one of the best views with glistening turquoise waters and marvelous sunsets – the perfect view to end the day while reading a book or drinking beer.
Sardine Run
Turtle Point | Ksenia Chu
Turtle Point | Rénat VAGNOTTI
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
ROOM RATES:
Standard Double Room: ₱1,935 per night, good for 2 persons
Standard Twin Room: ₱1,935 per night, good for 2 persons
Exact location: Panagsama Beach, Moalboal, Cebu — 3 to 4 hours away from the city
BY BUS: Find your way to Cebu South Bus Terminal (as of writing, located at Lantaw SRP). From the bus terminal, ride a bus bound for Bato-Barili. Travel time takes about 2.5 – 4 hours depending on the traffic in the city. Ask the driver to drop you off at Moalboal downtown. From Moalboal downtown, ride a tricycle going to Panagsama Beach. Upon arrival, you may ask around for directions going to Savedra Beach Bungalows Resort.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Savedra Beach Bungalows” in Moalboal, Cebu. Parking space is available upon arrival.
In this time and age of uncertainty, we could only wish for our dreams to come true. While it may sound cliché to others, some have also shared their sentiments on how ‘Law of Attraction’ has proven its ‘power’ to be true.
2020, specifically, has faced us with vast circumstances hence, this trend. The Law of Attraction trend has taught us that we can changed these circumstances through positive vibes. Though aspiring is common to most of us, a lot of celebrities whom we thought are already blessed with what they have, could also wish for more, for their fellows.
Miss Universe 2020 Rabiya Mateo just hopped into the bandwagon. She, despite winning the crown of the Philippines, is also hoping to bring home the crown of the universe to the country, for her countrymen.
Rabiya shared Sugbo.ph’s post with a caption: “5th MU crown for the PH!”
While we have all been cheering her on, may this make us support her even more. She’s preparing to bring us the 5th Miss Universe crown. We bet the stars in the universe will align for someone who is confidently beautiful, with a heart.
Rabiya Occeña Mateo (born November 14, 1996) is an Indian-Filipino model and beauty pageant titleholder from Iloilo City who was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2020.
Rabiya will represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2020 pageant which will be held in the first quarter of 2021.
Cebuanos will be the first to indulge in affordable, huge servings of comfort food favorites from an online-only restaurant serving you real comfort food goodness at www.snappy.com.ph.
With Snappy!’s aim to bring the best tasting and best value meals in a snap, it teamed up with Chef Bruce Lim to take all-time food favorites to the next level with chef-crafted creations, reinvented flavors, good value and big time servings.
Chef Bruce Lim was trained at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in London, and worked under world-renowned chef, Gordon Ramsay. He also hosted the Asian Food Channel’s The Boss and Tablescapes: Life on a Plate.
“The concept behind Snappy’s dishes is to take good flavors from my hometown and combine this with Cebuano favorites in a different way. Its flavors are familiar, we just take pride in the ingredients we use and how we serve it,”
Whether it’s an end-of-day treat for oneself, a dinner date at home, or a salu-salo with family, Snappy! offers a wide selection of meals fit for any occasion with prices starting at P88 to 388 for Snappy! Specials and Php 998 for Snappy! Celebration Meals good for 5 – 6 persons. Snappy! is also set to roll out meal plans next year.
Special menu:
Sticky Barbecue Ribs with Potato Salad – ₱388
6-pc. Snappy Fried Chicken with Potato Wedges – ₱388
Braised Pork with Garlic Noodles – ₱248
Butter Garlic Shrimps – ₱248
Chicken and Shrimp Chao Fan – ₱188
Crab Relleno – ₱168
Fried Pusit with Salted Egg Glaze – ₱198
Steamed Chicken with Mushrooms on Rice – ₱148
Crab Pincers – ₱168
Steamed Fried Rice – ₱88
Celebration meals
For Celebration Meals, choose either the Wild Wild West Celebration Meal with Barbecue Ribs, six pieces of Texas Barbecue Chicken, Potato Wedges, Potato Salad and Corn, or the Fiesta Celebration Meal with Aloha Pizza, six pieces of Snappy Fried Chicken, Potato Wedges and Spaghetti platter.
Yearning for a camping experience but can’t afford to go on leave for a few days and go to a far-flung area for some hardcore camping? Well, there’s actually a spot within Cebu City where you can camp overnight or for a day and experience probinsya life within a highly urbanized city.
The House of Gwapa Campsite is located in Barangay Bonbon, Cebu City. It’s approximately 30-45 minutes away from Lahug and is the perfect nature escape for those living in the city who want to go camping.
Photo by Mary Kristine Tam
The place looks like a well-kept backyard and farm that is surrounded by green mountainous terrain – a perfect spot for temporary isolation from the loud city noise.
The view here in the morning is that of the typical probinsya setting – wide green fields and mountains, birds chirping, far from the noise of vehicles, and best of all – the morning fog. Imagine sitting inside your tent and sipping a cup of coffee to this view. Now that’s what you call “being one with nature”.
Giovannie Graciella Anquilo Tapong
The campsite has two payag where guests can hang out and chill. A designated space for tents is also located near the payag. Guests can use their dirty kitchen if they want to cook, complete with utensils and electricity. For a better experience, you can also do bonfire within the campsite.
For those who want to go on an adventure, the management also offers activities such as river trekking and chasing waterfalls. Just inform the caretaker and they’d be glad to assist you.
So if you want to temporarily disconnect from the city life and social media, House of Gwapa Campsite is one of the best options for you within Cebu City.
Giovannie Graciella Anquilo Tapong
Giovannie Graciella Anquilo Tapong
Giovannie Graciella Anquilo Tapong
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Exclusive
Camping fee: P3,500 (up to 10 campers; P150 per extra camper); Includes exclusive use of the camping site and its amenities. Ideal for team buildings, barkada getaways, etc.
Camp in: 1PM
Camp out: 11 AM
You can also bring your own tent but they also have some that can be rented at P200 (good for 2 campers).
Exact location: Sitio Basiong, Barangay Bonbon, Cebu City — going uphill, 3 km away from main road and will pass through not-so-concrete roads. 45 minutes to 1 hour away from the city.
There is no public vehicle that can take you directly to the resort. These are your options:
BY PRIVATE VEHICLE: You may need a private vehicle to get to the place. Then navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “House of Gwapa”. Ample parking space is available.
BY MOTORBIKE: You may also opt to ride a habal-habal from JY Square. It will cost around ₱150-200 per person; each motorbike can accommodate up to 2pax. Make sure to negotiate first before riding.
There is no better way to destress than to visit unspoiled pieces of nature. This new overlooking spot in the highlands of San Fernando may just be the ‘breath of fresh air’ we badly needed.
Buntod Campbar in Sitio Kaandany, Brgy. Tanañas boasts an exquisite view of San Fernando’s beautiful mountain ridges. The wide skyline, the lush green vegetation from afar, and the big chunks of clouds hovering just above the mountains create a therapeutic picture of nature.
The feels at night is also equally calming as that of the feels we get during daytime. Camping is allowed but you will have to bring your own camping gears and observe standard camping etiquettes to preserve the place’s laidback beauty. You can’t get a sound and peaceful sleep at night at just anywhere, but you can have it here at Buntod Campbar – right in the heart of nature.
Photo by Rannie Talotalo IIPhoto by Jaycel Generalao
And the fresh and cold breeze of air – this is really something that is missing in the metro where the air already reeks with harmful chemicals from smokes and other air pollutants. And when lucky enough especially during the cold season, you’ll be greeted with thick blankets of fog shrouding the place.
The mountains and the cottage made of bamboo materials create a good background for your photos.
Photo by Venus Lastimado
Photo by Venus Lastimado
Photo by Venus Lastimado
Photo by Venus Lastimado
Photo by Angel
Photo by Angel
There are hammocks placed in the area and there’s also a small store that sells light snacks. But as a tip, it would be better if you bring your own food so you can have a satisfying meal while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Photo by Jaycel Generalao
Bear in mind though to always dispose your trashes to the designated trash bins. Lastly, when it’s raining, the place can by slippery so take extra caution and wear appropriate footwears.
This place isn’t fully developed yet and there are still some amenities that need to be built but Buntod Campbar has a good potential to become one of San Fernando’s top tourist destination soon.
Photo by Venus Lastimado
Photo by Venus Lastimado
Photo by Angel
Photo by Angel
REMINDERS
No approved booking, no camping.
No face mask, no entry. Also, prepare to submit yourself for proper sanitation upon entry.
They are only accepting 6 group of campers with maximum members of five.
Limited rentable tents only (first come first serve basis)
1 tent – good for 4
2 tents – good for 2
There is no access of electricity in the area, so all campers are advised to bring their own portable source of power.
There is no available food as of now, but there are “chichirya” and soft drinks for sale. You can bring your own food.
Exact location: Sitio Kaanday, Tanañas, San Fernando, Cebu — approx. 2 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: Take a bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal and let the driver know you’re heading to San Fernando. Ask the driver to drop you off at eskina going to San Fernando Cemetery. From there, ride a habal-habal going to Buntod Campbar (15 mins travel time from the highway).
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “San Fernando Cemetery” in San Fernando, Cebu. From there, ask around how to get to Buntod Campbar (15 mins travel time from the highway).
