Located in the highlands of Talisay City, Maghaway Transit is the newest hangout spot where city dwellers and weekend adventurers come to slow down, breathe in fresh mountain air, and enjoy sweeping views of Cebu’s coastline. With its chill, open-space vibe and rustic café feel, this elevated escape is perfect for coffee dates, barkada night-outs, or even a quick solo reset away from the buzz of the city.
Photo from FhilFoto by Teofilo Go Jr.
The Vibe
Photo from FhilFoto by Teofilo Go Jr.
Maghaway Transit combines the cool mountain breeze with the warmth of a cozy hangout. Think wooden benches, string lights, and an overlooking view of the sea and city lights, it’s the kind of spot that feels both refreshing during the day and magical at night.
Photo from FhilFoto by Teofilo Go Jr.
How to Get There?
By Car: From Cebu City, take the South Road Properties (SRP) going to Talisay. Head up via Maghaway Road, the same road leading to the famous mountain resorts, and just follow the signs going to Maghaway Transit. Parking is available for guests.
By Commute: From the city, ride a jeepney or bus bound for Talisay and drop off at Maghaway crossing. From there, take a habal-habal or motorcycle-for-hire that will bring you directly up to Maghaway Transit. The ride uphill is part of the adventure, giving you a preview of the mountain views ahead.
On August 18, 2025, Cebu woke up to streets turned into rivers. In Bulacao, Talisay City, floodwaters rose before sunrise, and by rush hour, Metro Cebu was paralyzed. What should have been an hour-long commute stretched into five. Cars stalled, workers were stranded, students waited endlessly. Cebu stood still, drenched not just in water, but in helplessness.
Social Media as a Lifeline
Photo from Unsplash
When the roads failed, people turned to their phones. Facebook became the city’s flood map. TikTok showed submerged underpasses. Messenger chats became rescue lines. For those with strong signals, information became protection. They warned others, avoided danger, and found comfort in knowing they weren’t alone. But those without signal were left in silence, isolated, cut off from the very lifeline that could have kept them safe.
Lives Interrupted, Voices Online
Photo from Unsplash
The flood did more than slow traffic, it disrupted lives. Workers lost wages, small businesses lost deliveries, and students lost learning hours. But online, communities worked to keep life moving. Parents shared updates about school suspensions. Entrepreneurs posted to reassure customers. Stranded commuters offered rides through group chats. In these moments, the online community became more than just voices, it became a force of solidarity, turning despair into shared strength.
The Government’s Broken Promises
Photo from Unsplash
Officials admitted what the people have long known, Cebu’s drainage system is outdated, unfit for the climate reality we live in. Councilor Dave Tumulak once again called for water impounding, desilting, and reforestation. Following the collapse of a P90-million riprap in Mandaue City, which destroyed five homes, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has ordered an immediate probe into flood control projects throughout the province. But how many times must the same words be repeated? How many more projects must fail before accountability is real? While people suffer, the cycle of promises and delays continues.
The Power of Connection and Engagement
Photo from Unsplash
Every flood reveals the cracks in our systems. It shows us how social media spreads faster than official advisories, how ordinary citizens rise where leadership falls short. But it also shows the power of positive engagement. They help strangers warn one another, mobilize help, and pressure leaders to act. Connectivity, when used responsibly, transforms fear into action, and frustration into hope.
A Call for Accountability and Change
Photo from Unsplash
This flood is not only nature’s doing, it is the result of neglect. Clogged waterways, failed projects, and weak planning have all added to the suffering. Filipinos should not have to rely on viral posts to know which roads are safe. We should not depend on memes and hashtags to demand what the government should already provide: safety, preparedness, and accountability. Reliable signal and strong online engagement must support government action, not replace it.
The flood of August 18 was a test of resilience. The people showed strength through connection, engagement, and solidarity. Now, the government must match that strength with accountability. Because without it, leadership is as dangerous as flood without warning.
Calasa Falls, located deep in the jungles of Samboan, is a multi-tiered cascade that has mostly escaped mainstream tourists. Calasa doesn’t have established facilities or attract large crowds like its more well-known neighbors. Rather, it provides something of the raw beauty of the falls.
A Wild Beauty Off the Beaten Path
Photo from Narnilyn Catubig Tolentin
Already, the trip to Calasa Falls is an adventure. The fact that the road to the visitor center is cobbled indicates that this treasure has not yet been discovered by commercial tourists. According to residents, there are more waterfalls, natural pools, and even caves concealed upstream, making the river system surrounding Calasa a huge playground just waiting to be explored.
The Trek Experience
Photo from Narnilyn Catubig Tolentin
It takes thirty minutes to hike through steep pathways dotted with coconut trees and dense jungle to get to Calasa. The hike is fulfilling even though it’s not the easiest. Before the refreshing mist of the falls welcomes you, you’ll have amazing views of the Tañon Strait and even Negros Island in the distance.
By Car: From Cebu City, drive south along the Cebu South Road until you reach the town of Samboan (around 4 hours). Once in Poblacion, take the uphill road heading to Barangay Colase. The road leading to the visitor’s center is unpaved, so expect a rough ride, but parking is available near the jump-off point.
By Commute: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, take a Ceres bus bound for Samboan or Bato via Barili and alight at Samboan town proper. From there, hire a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) going to Barangay Colase, which will take you straight to the jump-off area of Calasa Falls.
Caring for pets doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag. Around Cebu, government-led veterinary services and public clinics are making it easier for pet owners to access affordable healthcare, while also addressing issues like stray management and animal welfare. Whether you’re in the city or out in the islands, here are the key public vet services every Cebuano pet parent should know about.
Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries (DVMF)
Photo from Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries
The DVMF is Cebu City’s frontline office for animal health and welfare. For just ₱200 per pet, owners can have their furry companions registered, a fee that already covers deworming, vitamins, a check-up, and anti-rabies vaccination. The office also facilitates low-cost spay and neuter services through barangay schedules, while managing stray dog impounding and adoption programs. It’s a hub for responsible pet ownership, blending accessibility with community care.
How To Get There?
Location: Xiamen St., Mabolo, Cebu City
By Car: Navigate Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries via Waze or GoogleMap.
By Commute: Ride any jeepney bound to SM City Cebu or Mabolo and walk to Xiamen Street where the office is located.
Mobile Veterinary Clinic (Rotating across Cebu City barangays)
Photo from Unsplash
Taking veterinary care directly to the people, the Cebu City government launched a Mobile Veterinary Clinic that regularly visits different barangays. The service provides free anti-rabies vaccinations and free spay and neuter procedures during scheduled stops. For pet owners unable to travel to the main DVMF office, this rolling clinic ensures essential healthcare is always within reach.
Provincial Veterinary Clinic in Camotes
Photo from Jayson Morata
Marking a milestone for the Philippines, the Provincial Veterinary Clinic in Camotes is recognized as the first public veterinary clinic in the country. Beyond the basics of vaccination and consultation, the clinic offers advanced services like surgery, x-rays, ultrasounds, and laboratory tests, all at subsidized rates. This initiative doesn’t just serve household pets, it’s also a lifeline for farmers and livestock owners in the island community.
How To Get There?
Location: Barangay Calmante, Tudela, Camotes Island
By Car: Drive to Danao Port, take the Ro-Ro ferry to Consuelo Port, Camotes, then head south by car to Tudela, Barangay Calmante, where the Provincial Veterinary Clinic is located
By Commute: From Cebu City, ride a bus or van at the North Bus Terminal to Danao Port, board a passenger ferry to Consuelo Port, Camotes, then take a motorcycle or habal-habal (motorbike taxi) to Tudela, Barangay Calmante, where the Provincial Veterinary Clinic is located.
These government-backed veterinary services highlight Cebu’s growing commitment to both pet owners and animal welfare. With a blend of affordability and accessibility, they ensure that proper care is no longer out of reach for the everyday Cebuano. From free barangay vaccinations to the country’s pioneering public vet clinic, Cebu still has a long way to go in terms of improving the healthcare of our furbabies, these free and affordable clinics are a stepping stone in achieving a pet friendly community.
Cebu’s history once again comes alive inside the coral-stone walls of Museo Sugbo, as the city’s provincial museum officially reopens to the public. More than just a museum, this heritage site was once the Carcel de Cebu, the provincial jail built in 1871, and today it stands as a gateway to Cebu’s colorful past.
Photo from Jobers Reynes Bersales
Stories Within the Walls
Photo from Jobers Reynes Bersales
Inside, visitors can walk through a series of galleries that narrate the island’s story, from pre-colonial beginnings and the Spanish era, to World War II struggles and Cebu’s modern-day heritage. Each room holds artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that connect us to the lives of those who came before. Beyond the displays, the building itself feels alive with memory, its very walls carrying echoes of history.
Photo from Jobers Reynes Bersales
Other Informations:
Museo Sugbo offers an affordable cultural journey for everyone.
• ₱50 – Regular Visitors
• ₱25 – Students, Senior Citizens, and PWDs
How to Get There?
Location: M.J. Cuenco Avenue, Brgy. Tejero, Cebu City
By Car: From Cebu City proper, drive along M.J. Cuenco Avenue heading north. Museo Sugbo is located in Barangay Tejero, just a few minutes away from Plaza Independencia and Fort San Pedro. Parking is available nearby.
By Commute: Take a jeepney bound for M.J. Cuenco or Pier Area, and ask to be dropped off near Museo Sugbo in Tejero. You can also ride a taxi or Grab for a more convenient trip straight to the entrance.
Photo from Jobers Reynes Bersales
Whether you’re a student eager to learn about Cebu’s roots, a history buff tracing the island’s milestones, or a traveler looking for something beyond the beaches, Museo Sugbo is a must-visit cultural gem. Step inside, slow down, and let history unfold before your eyes.
After months of anticipation, the country’s tallest mountain is finally welcoming back adventurers. Mt. Apo, the “Grandfather of Philippine Mountains,” will officially reopen on September 1, 2025, bringing with it a renewed promise of breathtaking trails, rich biodiversity, and unforgettable sunrises above the clouds.
Photo from archive
A Long-Awaited Comeback
Photo from archive
Mt. Apo has always been more than just a climb, it’s a rite of passage for hikers and nature lovers across the country. With its closure, many outdoor enthusiasts had put their summit dreams on hold. Now, with safety protocols and conservation measures in place, the reopening signals not only the return of tourism but also the celebration of nature’s resilience.
Photo from archive
What to Expect
Photo from archive
Trekkers can look forward to revitalized trails, improved eco-guidelines, and a stronger focus on sustainable tourism. Local guides and communities are preparing to welcome climbers back, ensuring that every step taken on the mountain also helps preserve its natural beauty. From the towering boulders to its mossy forests, Mt. Apo’s trails remain a playground for the adventurous spirit.
How To Get There?
By Car: From Davao City, you can drive to trail jump-off points such as Kidapawan, Sta. Cruz, or Digos City, each about 2–3 hours away depending on your chosen route. Local tourism offices coordinate guides and permits for climbers.
By Commute: From Davao City, buses and vans are available to Kidapawan, Sta. Cruz, or Digos, where you can connect with accredited guides and secure necessary permits before starting your trek.
Photo from archive
Climbing Mt. Apo it’s about the journey and an achievement. The trails test endurance, the views humble the soul, and the summit sunrise rewards every ounce of effort. For many, this reopening marks a personal challenge reignited, a long-delayed dream finally within reach.
Known locally as Kalo-Kalo, Mt. Lanaya is not your ordinary weekend hike. Standing at about 700 meters above sea level, this giant looms dramatically over the southern Cebu coastline. Unlike its neighboring mountain ranges, Lanaya is known for its sharp, forest-covered slopes that drop straight toward the Tañon Strait, making it a breathtaking yet humbling sight to behold.
Trails of Adventure
Photo from archive
There are two main trails leading to the summit, the Lumpan Trail and the Legaspi Trail. The Lumpan Trail is considered the easier route, perfect for those short on time or seeking a less demanding climb. Meanwhile, the Legaspi Trail challenges even seasoned hikers with steep inclines and rock scrambling sections.
The Reward at the Top
Photo from archive
After a grueling ascent, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views, from the lush mountain landscapes of Cebu to the vast blue waters of the Tañon Strait. On clear days, one can even spot the Negros mountains in the distance. Whether bathed in sunrise hues or a moody mist, the summit is always a picture-perfect payoff.
Photo from archive
How to Get There?
By Car: From Cebu City, drive south along the Cebu South Road passing Carcar and Barili until you reach Alegria town. Travel time takes around 3 to 4 hours, and you can ask locals for directions to the Lumpan or Legaspi Trail jump-off points.
By Commute: Ride a bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal bound for Bato via Barili and alight at Alegria town proper. From there, hire a habal-habal to take you directly to the chosen trailhead of Mt. Lanaya.
Photo from archive
Mt. Lanaya is a test of grit, patience, and endurance. The trails can be unforgiving, especially during gloomy weather, and certain sections demand a bit of rock climbing. Preparation is key, wear proper footwear, pack light but essential gear, and don’t forget to bring water and trail food.
Samboan, a quiet town in southern Cebu, is home to some of the island’s most stunning waterfalls, including one known as the “Hidden Falls.” Officially known as Binalayan Falls, this three-tier flow combines raw natural beauty with a touch of thrill, making it a must-see for both adventurers and day-trippers.
The Allure of the Hidden Falls
Photo from archive
The middle tier of Binalayan, which is referred to as the “Gatorade Pool” because of its dazzling blue-green waters, is its main attraction. Whether you’re swinging from a rope into the pool, falling over its cliffs, or simply cooling down in its delicious waters, this tier is where the majority of the action happens. Its distinctive color and inviting depths make it a favorite among swimmers and photographers.
Photo from archive
For the Adventurous at Heart
Photo from archive
Binalayan Falls is a playground for thrill-seekers as well as a place to unwind. Brave visitors frequently test their courage with cliff jumps of varied heights, with the tallest being one of the most daring in the region. While not for the faint of heart, it provides an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
If cliff jumping is not your style, the natural pools themselves are ideal for a relaxing swim. Binalayan offers a rare combination of quiet and adventure, with less crowds.
By Car: From Cebu City, drive south along the Cebu South Road until you reach Samboan town proper. Follow the signs leading to Binalayan Falls, parking areas are available near the jump-off point before the short trail walk.
By Commute: Take a Ceres bus bound for Samboan or Bato via Barili at Cebu South Bus Terminal. Ask the conductor to drop you off at the Binalayan Falls jump-off along the highway, then walk or take a quick habal-habal (motorbike taxi) ride to the entrance.
The August long holiday is the perfect excuse to rediscover Cebu City. With a mix of heritage, food, views, and family-friendly attractions, the city offers plenty of ways to make your weekend memorable, without having to leave town.
Heritage Strolls
Photo from archive
Start your holiday by walking through Cebu’s historic core. Visit the iconic Magellan’s Cross and step inside the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, home to the country’s oldest religious relic. Just a short walk away, the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral welcomes visitors daily until 5 PM. Wrap up your stroll at Fort San Pedro, a Spanish-era fort turned museum that’s open on weekends, perfect for brushing up on local history.
Photo from archive
Family Fun
Photo from archive
Bringing the kids along? Cebu Ocean Park is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, weekends included. With Asia’s longest ocean tunnel and interactive exhibits, it’s a hit for both kids and adults. For a more relaxed family trip, you can also stroll around SM Seaside City Cebu (open 10 AM–9 PM daily) for skating, movies, or even just shopping with a sea view.
Night Eats & Chill
Photo from archive
No Cebu City weekend is complete without food. Sugbo Mercado, the city’s beloved night market at IT Park, opens daily from 4 PM to midnight, perfect for street food, local bites, and live music. For late-night chill, a drive up to Gullas Heights or TOPS gives you cool winds, sparkling city lights, and conversations that stretch until dawn.
Photo from archive
Refresh Your Mind
Photo from archive
For something different, check out the Cebu City Public Library (Rizal Memorial Library), a unique 24/7 cultural hub. It’s not your usual tourist stop, but it’s a quiet refuge for book lovers, students, or anyone wanting a peaceful night spot in the heart of the city.
The beauty of spending the holiday in Cebu City is convenience. You don’t need long drives or ferry rides, heritage, adventure, food, and nightlife are all within reach. Whether you want a cultural stroll in the morning, a highland sunset in the evening, or a food crawl at night, the city keeps its doors open for you this long weekend.
This August, let Cebu City be your destination, heritage by day, lights by night, and memories that last way beyond the holiday.
The AI wars are heating up, and three names keep sliding into the spotlight: OpenAI’s ChatGPT-5, Perplexity AI, and Google Gemini. Each one promises to be the smarter, faster, sharper digital sidekick. But here’s the catch, they don’t play the same game.
ChatGPT-5: The Overachiever With a Poker Face
Photo from Unsplash
OpenAI hyped ChatGPT-5 like it was the AI messiah. It came armed with a fancy “router” brain that picks the right submodel for the job, claiming up to 80% more accuracy than before. Need a research paper draft, event plan, or coding buddy? GPT-5 will crush it with efficiency.
But here’s the thing, people miss its predecessor’s soul. GPT-5 feels colder, corporate, and too polished. It’s like the coworker who always has the right answer but never joins you for after-work beers. Brilliant? Absolutely. Warm? Not really.
Perplexity: The Nerd Who Owns the Room
Photo grab from Perplexity.ai
Perplexity isn’t here to flirt. It’s here to fact-check your life. Imagine Google Search, but in AI form, every answer comes with receipts. It pulls straight from the internet, so you don’t just get an answer, you get the source trail too.
It’s unbeatable for breaking news, live updates, or niche rabbit holes. Want the latest on crypto crashes or who won last night’s FIBA match? Perplexity delivers in seconds. But don’t expect it to brainstorm your next novel. It’s a research assistant, not a muse.
Gemini: Google’s Smooth Operator
Photo grab from Gemini.ai
Then there’s Gemini, Google’s AI golden child. It doesn’t just answer questions, it slips into your digital life. Summarize that hour-long YouTube talk, draft a Gmail reply, or map your food crawl route in one go. Gemini feels like the AI that knows you best, mostly because… well, Google already does.
It’s friendlier than GPT-5, more creative than Perplexity, but not always razor-sharp. Still, its ecosystem superpower makes it ridiculously convenient. The trade-off? You’re trusting Big G with even more of your data.
Photo from Unsplash
Head-to-Head
• ChatGPT-5 – Best for deep problem-solving, writing, and coding. The professional’s AI.
• Perplexity – Best for research and fact-checking. The scholar’s AI.
• Gemini – Best for productivity and integration. The everyday user’s AI.
Photo from Unsplash
This isn’t just a tech rivalry, it’s a cultural tug of war. These AIs aren’t fighting for who can answer questions the fastest. They’re fighting for your trust, your time, and your data.
So, the real question isn’t which AI is the best. It’s which one you’ll let into your life. The straight-A student, the polished genius, or the smooth operator?
Pick your poison. The future of AI is already here, and it’s wearing three very different faces.
