Deck the Halls: Hotels for Your Upcoming Christmas Parties

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November 27, 2024

Moana is back!

The long-awaited sequel since its announcement is finally here! Moana 2 is now playing in theaters nationwide, offering a thrilling new adventure filled with action, magic, humor, and voyaging. Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, all making their feature directorial debuts, this sequel brings back beloved characters Moana and Maui, along with a new crew as they embark on an exciting wayfinding mission across the vast ocean.

Set three years after the events of the first film, Moana 2 sees Moana receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, prompting her to assemble her own crew. She reunites with the demigod Maui, and together they set sail to the far reaches of Oceania to break a curse placed by the god Nalo on the hidden island of Motufetu—an island that once served as a hub for the people of the ocean. Along the way, they face both old and new adversaries, including the mischievous Kakamora and the powerful underworld goddess Matangi.

What new adventures and challenges await Moana and her crew? Find out now, in theaters near you. Grab your popcorn, your favorite drink, and prepare for an unforgettable cinematic experience. Early reviews have already generated excitement, with the film earning positive feedback from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, 70% of 86 critics’ reviews are favorable, with an average rating of 6.3/10. The consensus reads: “Riding high on a wave of stunning animation, even when its story runs adrift, Moana 2 isn’t quite as inspired as the original, but still delights as a colorful adventure.”

Whether you’re craving an epic oceanic journey or simply seeking a fun and entertaining film, Moana 2 promises to lift your spirits and add a splash of excitement to your movie night. Be the first to watch, free from spoilers from those who watched the first screening.

Clamping to Begin in Talisay this December, CT-TODA Announces

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November 26, 2024

Starting this December, the City of Talisay Traffic Operations and Development Authority (CT-TODA) will begin clamping vehicles that are illegally parked on the streets of Talisay. This move is part of the city’s efforts to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.

Photo from City of Talisay Traffic Operations & Development Authority Official Facebook Page

To help avoid fines and penalties, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reminded the public to follow proper parking regulations starting now. This encourages drivers to be mindful of traffic laws to prevent their vehicles from being clamped.

In a recent update posted on social media, CT-TODA also announced that they have received new equipment to enforce the clamping operation. These include 20 clamps for sedans and 10 for trucks, ensuring that all types of vehicles will be covered.

Residents and drivers are advised to park responsibly and observe traffic rules to avoid the inconvenience of having their vehicles clamped.

foodpanda Expands to Naga to Meet Delivery Demand

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November 26, 2024

Online food and grocery delivery platform foodpanda has expanded its reach in Cebu, and is now available in the city of Naga.

With this latest move, customers in these areas can now access foodpanda’s wide range of services, including food delivery and pick-up.

Snehasis Despande, Director of Operations at foodpanda Philippines, explained that this location was selected in response to increasing demand from both customers and merchants. “We’ve observed that residents and visitors in this area have already been opening the app but unable to order because we’re not yet present there,” he noted.

In the same way, many merchants who have partnered with foodpanda have experienced significant growth in their business. “On the restaurant side, our existing partner vendors are often requesting if we can also be present in areas where they have other branches, because for these vendors, they usually utilize foodpanda as a marketing tool and revenue stream,” Despande added.

Additionally, their delivery service provider Delivery Hero Logistics Philippines, Inc. (DHLPI) also partners with freelancer riders to offer four types of delivery options including motorcycles, bicycles, e-scooters, and walkers. “These transport modes allow for efficient deliveries, providing flexible earning opportunities for the local driver community,” Despande added.

With its expansion, foodpanda is also adding to its operations more areas in Dagupan, Batangas, Nueva Vizcaya, Pampanga and Bulacan.

Despande emphasized that the company continues to assess the needs of different regions, cities, and municipalities to identify expansion opportunities. “We aim to bring fast and convenient delivery services to areas where there is a growing demand from both customers and merchants,” he said.

For new app users in the newly launched areas, foodpanda will offer various promotions, including free delivery during the initial launch period, as part of its efforts to encourage more people to experience its services.

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About foodpanda:

foodpanda is an on-demand food and grocery platform, dedicated to helping customers get their tasty favorites fast. Since its creation, it has grown to more than 170,000 partner restaurants in more than 400 cities across 11 Asian markets. foodpanda is a subsidiary under Delivery Hero, a worldwide leader of the food delivery industry.

foodpanda Philippines is dedicated to bringing food lovers their favorite meals from curated local restaurants in the Philippines. It currently operates in 150 cities and municipalities across the country and is continuously expanding. For more information, visit www.foodpanda.ph.

How it works:

Through the foodpanda website or via the new iOS and Android apps, customers can enter their address and view a curated list of restaurants and shops serving their neighborhood. Once they have found their choice, they can place an order in the comfort of their home or office, paying online through foodpanda’s secure platform or via cash-on-delivery The order is then carefully prepared by the restaurant or shop, picked up by the foodpanda delivery partner and delivered straight to their doorstep.

Follow foodpanda on:

Facebook: foodpandaphilippines
Twitter: foodpanda_ph
Instagram: foodpanda_ph

Silent Nights: What Happened to Our Christmas Celebrations?

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November 25, 2024

Is our Christmas Spirit still alive? Observation suggests it’s fading away. What happened?

We used to be excited when this festive holiday came. But somehow we notice changes in how we celebrate it. Let’s see what those changes are;

CHRISTMAS CAROLING

Screengrab from Alex Gonzaga via YouTube

Christmas caroling is more than just a tradition—it’s an annual burst of joy, a heartfelt ritual that typically starts gradually around mid-September, and the closer it gets to Christmas, the more carolers come by until Christmas Eve. Groups of passionate carolers—often children—sing their hearts out as they move from house to house, spreading holiday cheer in exchange for small gifts, usually coins or sweet treats. For many, it’s a joyful way to share the Christmas spirit and, for some, a means to raise funds for the less fortunate.

Can you remember the warmth of hearing a familiar Christmas song drifting through the air as you walked down the street? The feeling of being swept up in the festive magic, even if it was just for a moment? That joy seemed endless. But now, something seems to have dimmed that holiday sparkle.

However, we don’t seem to find a lot of them coming nowadays. Where are we supposed to bring joy to now? Turns out the cause of all this is this new strict policy that discouraged passionate carolers to stop.

Where did all the carolers go? The once bustling streets, full of cheerful voices, are quieter than ever. Turns out, it’s not just a coincidence. The cause? A new, somewhat chilling policy from the Cebu City Government. Just as the season of good cheer kicks off, the city has enforced a “No Permit, No Caroling” rule. That’s right—if you want to sing for your supper (or a few pesos), you need a permit. According to the Cebu City Anti-Mendicancy Board, both unpermitted carolers must face a P1,000 fine. Yes, you read that correctly—a fine for sharing the holiday spirit.

To legally carol, aspiring singers are now required to head to the Business Permit Licensing Office (BPLO) at Cebu City Hall for official clearance. It’s no longer enough to just sing for joy; you need paperwork. And while carolers are allowed to serenade homes, offices, and stores, there’s a catch—subdivisions and private estates, with their own rules, are off-limits. So much for spreading cheer to every corner.

Caroling is supposed to be an act of spreading Christmas cheer. This isn’t a business that requires permits.

DECORATING OUR HOMES

Here’s what we noticed in Cebu today. There seems to be only less Sugboanons passionate enough to decorate their homes. Why is that? In the past, homes were brimming with twinkling lights and festive trees, with families gathered around the tree, soaking in the holiday spirit.

The good news is that in rural areas such as towns, villages, and other small settlements, Christmas cheer is still alive, with homes lit up and decorated. However, in the city, many homes are not as festive, especially when compared to the vibrant decorations found in offices, malls, parks, and other public places.

We spoke with a few neighbors, friends, and relatives who chose not to decorate their homes, and the most common reason was a lack of space for Christmas trees and belens. For many, the best they can manage is a few Christmas lights taped to walls and doors.

It kind of makes sense. A city may be wide with millions of people living in it, but is the area of the city big enough to fit everyone’s homes? In many urban areas, land is limited, and population density can be extremely high. For example, New York City has over 8 million residents living in just 302 square miles, making it one of the most densely populated cities in the U.S. As cities continue to grow, the challenge of fitting homes for millions becomes even more pressing, often leading to the rise of vertical living, like apartment buildings and skyscrapers, to maximize space.

One of the reasons homes in rural areas often have more room for decorations is the extra space they have to display them. While we can absolutely decorate our apartments in the city, sometimes it’s a matter of whether the space allows for it. If your tree fits comfortably, you’re lucky to have that extra space!

Not having decorations doesn’t mean you’ve lost your Christmas spirit—it just means you might be limited by the space in your home. But just because your space is limited, that doesn’t mean it should stop you from decorating. There’s always a way to maintain space. Who knows? It could be you Christmas miracle.

Kidlat Tahimik’s INDIO-GENIUS Exhibit Opens at Mactan Cebu Airport

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November 25, 2024

Get ready for a grand historical opening in Cebu!

Photo from the National Museum of the Philippines Official Facebook Page

It opens today! Kidlat Tahimik prepared his large-scale art installation that will be displayed at Mactan Cebu International Airport. These pieces are part of his “INDIO-GENIUS: 500 Taon ng Labanang Kultural (1921-2021)” exhibition, depicting his quirky retelling of our cultural struggles throughout history.

ABOUT THE INDO-GENIUS

This exhibition delves into the complex and ongoing struggle of the Filipino people to define their cultural identity over the past 500 years. The central questions it raises are: “What does it mean to be Filipino?” and “Where do we come from?”

It reflects on how, for centuries, Filipinos have struggled with their sense of self due to the powerful external influences that have shaped the country. These influences began when the West “discovered” the Philippines in 1521, which marked the start of colonization. The impact of this colonization was profound, leading to what is referred to as the “indio-zation” of Filipinos—a term that connects to how the indigenous population was often marginalized, labeled as “uncivilized,” or even “inferior” by colonizers. As a result, much of the Philippines’ native knowledge and cultural practices were erased or suppressed.

VISIT THE EXHIBITION

Come check out his wooden sculptures such as the iconic vessel, Tahimik’s interpretation of Magellan’s so-called “rediscovery of the Philippines. A replica of a galleon ship with Magellan standing at the prow alongside his slave, Enrique de Malacca.

MCIA invites all Sugboanons to witness their airport become an artistic gateway to Filipino heritage. Let’s celebrate Filipino culture and history!

Gift Ideas for Your Kinugos; Kay Pasko na Ninong & Ninang!

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November 24, 2024

Kana ganing wala kay anak, pero daghan kag kinugos—well, andam-andam na para Pasko, Ninong and Ninang!

At 28, I’ve been lucky enough to have two wonderful godsons, thanks to my closest friends who trust me with the responsibility of guiding and supporting their kids. While I may not fully grasp the gravity of this role, I’m on the lookout for gift ideas to make their holidays special. And what better way to find inspiration than scouring the internet and browsing through the Sugboanon marketplace?

Here are some affordable, thoughtful gift ideas for your godchildren that won’t break the bank:

Kid-Safe Art Materials

As an artist myself, I’m a firm believer in the power of creativity. Kids thrive when they can express themselves, and art is one of the best ways to do that. You can easily gift an art material set or create a DIY art basket filled with crayons, markers, colored pencils, and a stack of drawing paper or a small canvas. For younger children, you can opt for magic erasable boards to keep them busy and engaged while preventing any messes.

Where to Buy? National Bookstore or any local school supply store.
Tip: Be sure to choose non-toxic materials, as kids tend to put things in their mouths and touch their faces, and you want to ensure safety above all.
Budget: Can range between Php 500.00 and above, depending on the type of set.

Blocks and Building Toys

Who doesn’t love a good set of blocks? From building towers to creating little cities, these toys encourage problem-solving and creativity. Opt for wooden blocks, as they’re less likely to chip their paint compared to the colorful plastic ones. You can choose from classic building blocks, car-shaped blocks, or even shape-based blocks that promote learning while having fun.

Where to Buy? Toy stores or online marketplaces like Lazada or Shopee.
Tip: Always check for age-appropriate recommendations and ensure they’re child-safe.
Budget: Can range between Php 300.00 and above, depending on the type of set.

Interactive Books

As an avid reader, I believe in the power of storytelling. Books are not only a great way to introduce new words and concepts, but they also encourage children to develop a love for reading and help in improving their fluency. Interactive books that include sound effects, textures, or flaps to lift are great choices for keeping little ones engaged. These types of books make learning fun and memorable.

Where to Buy? Book stores like Fully Booked or even online.
Tip: Look for books with bright illustrations and a storyline suited for the child’s age.
Budget: Can range between Php 500.00 and above, depending on the type of book.

Merch of Their Favorite Characters

I’ll never forget the Hello Kitty sofa set my godmother gave me when I was a child. It was the best thing ever! A fun way to delight your godchild is by gifting them something featuring their favorite characters—whether that’s a toy set, a plate, a tumbler, or a backpack. From Marvel superheroes to Disney princesses or Transformers, character-themed gifts are always a hit. Just be sure the items are made from food-safe materials for the sake of safety.

Where to Buy? Department stores or character merchandise shops.
Tip: Look for quality, safe, and durable materials, especially for food-related items.
Budget: Can range between Php 500.00 and above, depending on the type of merch.

A Memorabilia Keepsake for the Parents

This might not be a gift for the child immediately, but it’s something that will become a precious keepsake as they grow older. Consider gifting a treasure box, a personalized photo frame, or a memory book that captures a family handprint or meaningful moments. These items serve as sentimental mementos that parents can cherish, and one day, the child will look back on them with fond memories.

Where to Buy? Gift shops, online stores, or even DIY kits.
Tip: Personalize it by adding a special message or detail that reflects your relationship with the family.
Budget: Can range between Php 500.00 and above, depending on the type of set.

TIME – The Most Precious Gift

In this fast-paced world, we often find ourselves too busy to spend quality time with the ones we love. Sometimes, the best gift isn’t something material—it’s the gift of your presence. Instead of buying a physical gift, why not take your godchild out on an adventure? You could go ice skating, visit a theme park, or take a trip to the zoo. These experiences create lasting memories and will be something they’ll remember for years to come.

Tip: Plan something age-appropriate and ensure you capture lots of photos during the outing. Memories are priceless!
Budget: Can start at Php 250.00, depending on the activity.

Being a godparent is about being there for the child, offering guidance, and creating memories. This holiday season, instead of stressing over extravagant gifts, focus on giving thoughtful, meaningful presents that show you care—whether it’s through a fun activity, a creative gift, or a keepsake for their parents. Because after all, it’s not about how much you spend, but the love and thought behind the gesture. Happy gift hunting, mga Ninong and Ninang!

The Candle Vendors of Sto. Nino Church: A Story of Resilience and Heart

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November 24, 2024

There’s something incredibly moving about walking through the night, when the streets are quieter and the world seems to slow down. It was on one such evening, almost midnight, when I passed by the iconic Sto. Niño Church, a landmark in Cebu that’s rich with history. As I walked home, a familiar sight caught my attention—several candle vendors standing outside the church, humbly offering their candles to passing churchgoers and visitors. One night turned into a week, then a month, and still, I saw the same faces, standing in the same spots, waiting for a chance to make a sale.

Curiosity grew within me, and one evening, I decided to approach them with a simple question: “How are you?” A simple inquiry that opened up a world of stories, struggles, and deep resilience.

Ate Lony: A Journey of Survival

One of the vendors, Leonsia, or “Ate Lony,” shared that she had been selling candles since 2017. But in reality, she’s just one of the newer faces in a long line of vendors who have made this humble practice a part of their lives for generations. Some of them, she says, have been doing it since they were children.

Ate Lony spoke about the responsibilities that keep her on her feet every night. “Naa koy mga pamilya, naa koy PWD nga nagskwela nag college, 3rd year na siya” (I have a family to support, and I have a child with special needs who is studying in college. She’s in her third year now) she said. The quiet strength in her words was unmistakable, as was the determination in her eyes.

She told me that they usually pack up around 11 PM. For Ate Lony, candle selling is more than just a means of survival; it’s a way to support her family, including her child’s education. Before the pandemic, she had owned a small sari-sari store, but when it hit, she had to adapt, changing to selling candles to continue providing for her family. A widow living in Basak San Nicolas, Ate Lony is doing everything she can to make ends meet, and the candles she sells are more than just wax and wick; they are the light that fuels her family’s hope.

Ate Nene: The Struggles of the Night

Then there’s Ate Nene, or Hernita, a 70-year old candle vendor who has become a familiar face outside the Sto. Niño Church. She shared her story with me as well, and the challenges she faces became even more apparent. “Maabtan mig buntag kay sayo sa buntag, naa may mangarbon. Mao nga wa mi tugpahay,” (We sometimes go beyond the next morning because there are market goers who pass by at dawn. So, there are times when we don’t get much rest) she said.

The unpredictability of their work is something that weighs heavily on them, it’s a gamble of whether or not they’d sell a bunch each day. And one factor that added to their struggles were the street children who often outsell them. “Manggukod sila ug mga manglabay, mao nga mugamay amung halin,” (They run after customers and can take them away from our areas, resulting in fewer people to buy from our own candles) said Ate Nene.

Despite the struggles, there was no bitterness in her voice, only the quiet acceptance of the reality she faces as she shared that the children are also doing what they can to survive, similar to what they’re doing too. For Ate Nene, as with Ate Lony, the candles represent a steady source of income in uncertain times. They may not be able to sell much on some nights, but they persist, knowing that the following day might bring a brighter opportunity.

A Moment of Connection

It was on that same night, while I was talking to Ate Lony and Ate Nene, that something lighthearted and beautiful happened. As we exchanged stories, they learned each other’s real first names for the first time! I could see the surprise and delight in their eyes as they shared a laugh over the fact that they’d never actually introduced themselves by name, despite spending so many nights together at the same spot, since 2017. That simple moment of discovery, filled with laughter and smiles, was a reminder that even in the toughest of circumstances, there’s always room for joy.

As we continued to chat, I also shared a little piece of my own life with them. It felt like we were no longer strangers, but rather friends who had exchanged stories, each one of us carrying away something precious from the conversation. I left them with a new story to share, and in return, they gave me a piece of their lives—one that was filled with resilience, laughter, and hope.

The Resilience of the Candle Vendors

The stories of these candle vendors are not just about survival—they are stories of resilience. Every night, they stand in the shadow of the Sto. Niño Church, offering light to the faithful while also seeking the light that sustains their families. Their candles may be small, but the hope they carry is immeasurable.

What struck me the most was the sense of community among the vendors. They don’t just compete for customers; they support each other, understanding the struggles they face. They are a living testament to the spirit of perseverance, holding on to hope even when circumstances are less than favorable.

For these vendors, each candle they sell is more than just a product—it’s a symbol of their dedication to their families, to their future, and to their unbreakable spirit. Their stories, though often unseen, remind us that resilience can shine brightly in the most unlikely of places.

So, the next time you walk past Sto. Niño Church and see the candle vendors, take a moment to stop and ask them, “How are you?” You may be surprised by the strength, the hope, and the light that they offer, both in the candles they sell and in the stories they share. And who knows? You might just walk away with a new friend, and a new story to tell.

And as a last word of advice that they gave me, “Katawa rajud. Basta magsgeg katawa, mawa rajud ang problema.”

Are You Eligible for a 13th Month Pay?

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November 22, 2024

Kaya’t ibigay n’yo na ang aming Christmas bonus; pati na ang 13th month pay para lahat okey na okey!

In just a few weeks from now, ting-distribute na sa 13th month pay; pero ang pangutana, apil ba ka? We took a look at the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) latest post from November 21, 2024, which outlines the Labor Advisory on 13th month pay provisions. Here’s what you need to know:

1 Month Na Ba Ka Sa Companya?

According to the Labor Advisory No. 13, Series of 2024, “any rank-and-file employee in the private sector regardless of their position, designation, or employment status, and irrespective of the method by which their wages are paid, provided that they have worked for at least one (1) month during the calendar year.”

In short, if you’ve been with your company for a month or more, you are eligible for the 13th month pay!

Pila Ang 13th Month?

The minimum amount for the 13th month pay should be at least 1/12th of the total basic salary you received throughout the calendar year. “Basic salary” refers to your regular salary and does not include the bonuses, allowances, and other monetary benefits (such as the cash equivalent of your unused leaves), unless your contract specifies that these are included in your basic pay.

Kanu-a Makuha Dapat ang 13th Month Pay?

The 13th month pay must be given on or before December 24, 2024. No company is exempt from this rule. To ensure compliance, employers are required to submit a report to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) confirming they have provided the 13th month pay to their employees.

So, if you meet the eligibility requirements, get ready ug tara na dayun sa mga seat sale or andam na para magparebond, Sugboanons!

Your Ultimate 3-Day Trip Around Cebu: A Guide

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November 21, 2024