Over the past months, many brands have been on sale, offering huge discounts on retail items as a way to attract more customers and encourage them to buy at their physical stores.
OXYGEN at SM City Cebu has surely caught the attention of many Cebuanos after a post about the sale went viral on Facebook, primarily because there are fashion items now sold for as low as P99.
No pandemic can stop the island of Cebu from showcasing its world-class beauty. Published on October 6, Cebu has been recognized as this year’s best island in the continent of Asia by the prestigious travel magazine, Condé Nast Traveler.
Photo by Moon Ray
Condé Nast Traveler is a world-renowned, U.S.-based lifestyle and luxury travel magazine. Considered as the Emmy or Oscars for islands and cities, Condé Nast is currently on its 33rd edition of its online survey where approximately 600,000 registered voters from around the world decide and choose the world’s top countries, must-visit cities, and best islands every year.
The results of this massive worldwide voting is published annually on October (online) and November (in print).
Condé Nast’s category of Best Islands in the World: 2020 Readers’ Choice awards is divided per continent. In Asia, Cebu & Visayas Islands (merged together as one entry) gained the top spot with a rating of 95.83, closely followed by Sri Lanka with 95.45.
The magazine described Cebu as a tourist-magnet with its pristine beaches and world-class diving spots off the island’s northern coast attracting around 2 million tourists annually.
Aside from these, the rich culture and history of the island were also acknowledged, citing Cebu’s prominent Roman Catholic and Spanish influences.
The top attractions of Basilica Minore del Santo Niño and the Kawasan Falls in the southern town of Badian were also highlighted as some of the island’s most popular tourist spots.
Basilica Minore del Santo Niño
Basilica Minore del Santo Niño
Kawasan Falls | The Island Nomad
Kawasan Falls | The Island Nomad
Kawasan Falls
2020 Best Islands in Asia
Cebu & Visayas, Philippines 95.83
Sri Lanka 95.45
Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand 95.3
Palawan, Philippines 95.22
Siargao Island, Philippines 95.19
Boracay, Philippines 95.06
Lombok, Indonesia 94.59
Phuket, Thailand 94.12
Bali, Indonesia 93.27
Koh Samui, Thailand 92.73
It should be noted however that this is not Cebu’s first time to enter this prestigious list of the said magazine. In 2019, the island of Boracay bagged the top spot, with Cebu coming in on second place.
With these recognitions the Secretary of the Department of Tourism, Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, lauded the islands that made it to the list. Secretary Puyat emphasized that responsible and sustainable tourism will always be upheld by the DOT as the country moves toward tourism revival amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.
If you are one of the millions of Filipinos who missed watching quality shows from ABS-CBN on free television, we have good news for you!
A2Z, the newly rebranded Channel 11 following Zoe Broadcasting Network’s partnership with ABS-CBN, will be the new home of some Kapamilya programs on free television starting Saturday.
ABS-CBN shows on Free TV
Among the Kapamilya shows that are coming to the channel are “It’s Showtime” and “ASAP Natin To,” which will bring live entertainment on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
It’s Showtime (airing live beginning Saturday, October 10)
ASAP Natin ‘To (airing live beginning Sunday, October 11)
FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano (new episodes beginning Monday, October 12)
Walang Hanggang Paalam (new episodes beginning Monday, October 12)
Ang Sa Iyo ay Akin (new episodes beginning Monday, October 12)
Programs to air soon:
Paano Kita Mapapasalamatan
Iba ‘Yan
Magandang Buhay
I Can See Your Voice
MMK
Where to watch A2Z?
Cable/Satellite Provider
Channel Assignment
Coverage
Sky Cable
11
Mega Manila – Metro Manila, CAMANAVA, Rizal, South Luzon
Digital Regional – Baguio, Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, Dumaguete, GenSan, Davao
Cignal
20
Nationwide
G Sat
TBA
Nationwide
SatLite
TBA
Nationwide
Cablelink
77
Parañaque, Las Piñas
SunCable Rizal
5
Antipolo, Rizal
Alabat CATV
27
Alabat, Quezon
Atimonan CATV Systems
67
Atimonan – Quezon
Baywatch Cable TV Network
71
San Nicolas and Bay, Laguna
CableStar Inc.
78
San Mateo and Montalban – Rizal
Quezon Cable TV Network, Inc.
78
Real and Tignoan – Quezon
Claveria Agribased CableTV
42
Claveria – Cagayan
A2Z Channel on TV Plus
For ABS-CBN TV Plus owners, channel number will vary per (specific) area, including Cebu. Kindly follow the steps below:
Step 1: Press the ‘Scan’ button
Step 2: Once completed, you can find the ‘ZOEtv11’. This is the A2Z channel.
Don’t find it? Try these:
Re-scan 2-3 times more until you see the new channel.
Reposition the TV Plus antenna then re-scan. Do this until you find it.
If still unsuccessful, you may need to wait a bit more as A2Z Channel strengthens and expands its digital frequencies in provincial areas.
We always love to be on top. There’s just magic when you’re at the peak enjoying a panoramic view of the life below. No wonder why mountain climbers and trekkers always find joy when they reached the summit of the mountains they have conquered.
Therapeutic. Satisfying. Worth the trek. Tagaytay Hills in Toledo City is worth a try.
Photo by Larlo Ray
Also known as Mt. Tagaytay, Tagaytay Hills is located in Brgy. General Climaco in Toledo City, Cebu. It will not take long for one to reach the summit as the trail is generally gentle and not steep. For experienced mountaineers, this is a walk in the park but for the beginners, you might still have to catch breath while going to the top.
Nature lovers will fall in love with nature even more. On your way to the top, you will be greeted with picturesque scenery and rolling hills. Just wear enough skin protectives though since you will be hiking through an open field and the heat of the sun might be a little unbearable.
You can take breaks along the way so you can take a view of the location and take few pictures as well.
Photo by Jerlon Layon
Photo by Jerlon Layon
Photo by Jerlon Layon
The view from the top is just mesmerizing. The struggle during the ascent will all be worth it. Here, you’ll be able to see the famed Malubog Lake at aerial view. The lake already looks magnificent at a closer view and it displays another level of magnificence when view from an overlooking spot.
The peak of Tagaytay Hills is wide that you can even have a picnic lunch with your friends. If you wish to stay for the night, you can camp too in the area. Just bring your camping materials and enjoy the sea of stars above.
Photo by Larlo Ray
Photo by Larlo Ray
Photo by Larlo Ray
Photo by Larlo Ray
NOTE:
Locals often call Tagaytay Hill as “Old Bucao”. If you need directions to get there from the Barangay Hall, just ask the locals, and tell them that you are going to Old Bucao.
There’s a private game-farm property in the area and we don’t want to trespass that so always ask permission from the people before you take pictures.
Be ready with you sandals or slippers during the trip. You’ll be crossing streams of waters and climbing slippery rocks if you plan to have a side trip to other nearby attractions in the area like the Malubog Falls and the Malubog Lake.
Don’t make so much unnecessary noise.
Camp fire is not allowed. If you need to cook, bring your own butane stoves.
There are stores in the area that offer the food and drinks you’ll need for your trip.
Bring your own trash bags and leave the place with no trace.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Entrance fee: None as of the moment
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Brgy. Gen. Climaco in Toledo City – 50km from Cebu City
BY BUS: Take a bus from the South Bus Terminal (Fare: P60-90) that’s headed to Toledo City and ask the conductor that you want to be dropped off in the Julie’s Bakeshop in Brgy. Magdugo. Then take a habal-habal (P60/pair) going to Brgy. Gen. Climaco. When you get to the barangay, you can ask locals the way to Tagaytay Hills jump-off point.
One thing that’s good about the western influence is that when it comes to food, they don’t hold anything back.
Well, brace yourselves for straight from its western influence, the newly opened Cardams Kitchen+Bar in Carcar City (Cebu south) offers an abundance of good food, a relaxing dining place, and flowing drinks.
Cardams Kitchen+Bar takes pride on its rustic, industrial feel that would transport you to America, dining with all the vintage decors and its homey and island vibes.
It has the perfect ambiance for chilling with friends, family gatherings, friendly or romantic dates… anything! Cardams is definitely the restaurant that you will keep coming back for.
Wide Selection of Good Food
Combining food and drinks can never go wrong when it comes to Cebuanos, which is why CardamsKitchen+Bar makes sure to serve only good food to pair it with, as they have their own in-house chef.
Cardams offers a wide selection of good food. They serve a fusion of Western, Italian and Asian food including a healthy serving of mouth-watering pizzas, unlimited chicken with finger-lickin flavors for only P215 and of course some all-time Filipino favorite dishes as well like Bicol express and Kare-Kare.
Unlimited chicken wings for ₱215
They also offer generous servings to all their food and don’t use MSG in any of it which is good news to health conscious customers.
Cardams Kitchen+Bar even now offers breakfast meals. And who would say no to that?
Milk & Beyond
All milk tea lovers will be delighted to know that there’s also a Milk tea station available inside the premises. Milk & Beyond will let your dining experience a whole lot sweeter and creamier.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Best-sellers:
Unli chicken rate with 4 sauces: ₱215
Rolled up Mac n Cheese Pizza Thick-crust Pizza: ₱310
Homemade Hawaiian Pizza: ₱190
Naan Beef Bread Samosa: ₱215
Other Information:
Opening hours: 6AM to 8:30PM daily (Mondays to Sundays)
Order good food straight to your homes as Cardams offers delivery in Carcar City and nearby areas like Barili, Sibonga, San Fernando, Naga City.
For orders and delivery, message them on Facebook or contact them at 0933-475-2148 / 0926-728-1960.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Poblacion I, San Jose Street, Carcar City (near Brgy. Pob. 1 Brgy. Hall) – approx. 2 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From the South Bus Terminal, ride a bus heading to Carcar City and ask the driver to drop you off at Carcar City rotonda. From there, you can ride a tricycle or habal-habal going to Cardams. The place is relatively new but residents are already familiar with the place.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your location to “Cardams Kitchen & Bar”. Parking space is available. Valet parking is also available on Fridays to Sundays.
The province of Cebu has been known to shelter several mountain peaks that had tickled the adventurous feet of Cebuanos and mountain trekkers coming from the different parts of the country. We have Osmeña Peak, Kandungaw Peak, and Mt. Naupa to name a few.
Tuburan, the largest municipaliy of Cebu, isn’t just about springs as its name implies but it also houses one of Cebu’s refreshing views from the top – Atabay Peak.
Atabay Peak is located in Brgy. Marmol, Tuburan, Cebu. Your habal-habal ride from the town proper to the jump off point will be filled with beautiful landscapes as you traverse the uphill roads.
The view from the top is a sight to behold. Visitors often take their photos while they’re on top of the rocky limestone formation found at the peak. The panoramic view of the green scenery and verdant hills make a good background for your photos.
But more than the photos, the breeze of the air and the scenery you’ll get here are something that soothe the deepest parts of you that yearns freedom from all the crazy things that have been going on lately; the parts that seek momentary pause from things that cause us unspeakable anxieties.
Unlike the famous mountain peaks that have been featured by most of the online sites, this one is different. The hike going to the peak from the base will only take more or less five minutes of your time. Just a walk in the park. A good starting point too for mountain trekking wannabes.
The peak’s accessibility might be the reason why locals and people from all over Cebu still flock the area.
The trail though can be quite tiring for some who are not used to mountain trekking, but it can be a good morning exercise. It’s bushy and amorseco plants are everywhere.
There is no entrance fee for your trek to Atabay Peak but there’s a donation box at the jump off point. Also, take extra caution when at the peak especially on the rock formation as the weather can be very windy and it might cause you to lose your balance. Lastly, leave no trace.
If you got extra time, you can also visit Marmol Cliff also found in Marmol, Tuburan.
BY COMMUTE: You can take a bus from the North or South Bus Terminal going to Tuburan. The trip will last up to 3 hours. You may also ride a V-Hire from the Ayala Center Terminal. Travel time for the second option is only 2 hours. Upon your arrival at Tuburan, look for a motorcycle taxi (habal-habal) that will take you to Atabay Peak. Travel time is less than 30 minutes, and the fare is P50 per person per way. One habal-habal can carry 3 passengers.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Atabay, Brgy. Marmol” in Tuburan. Ask around where to find the jump off point for Atabay Peak. Parking space is limited and you’ll need a well-conditioned vehicle, as you’ll be driving on a steep and winding road.
Wanting to get the island paradise feeling of peace and serenity but on a budget?
Island Eco-Tourism Park in Olango Island is not just another tourist location. The place is full of vibrant and warm colors that will surely capture your heart. The sea breeze will get you hooked and the waves will draw you in. But if you think that’s all it offers, well you’re in for quite a surprise.
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
Bahay Kubo or Nipa hut is a Philippine culture icon and has earned its title due to its livable and comfortable space built by our ancestors before the influence of our colonizers.
Payag the perfect country house that will let you breath the province in all its rawness. One beautiful kamalig or as more commonly known as “payag” sits right in the plains of the beautiful island of Olango, at Asinan Eco-Tourism Park.
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
You can have an overnight stay on the payag itself or choose to rent a tent on its vast collection on the grounds.
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
There is a certain freedom on the activities that you can enjoy in the island but swimming on the sea and biking are the two most recommended.
Photo by Juleta Remulta Soon
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Fees:
Entrance Fee: ₱20 per head
Table Rental: ₱100 per day
Bike Rental: ₱10 per hour
Paddle Boat Rental: ₱100 per hour
Tropical fish viewing and boat renting: ₱30 per person
Overnight rates:
Overnight stay: P2,500, good for 15pax (for reservation)
Tent: P200 per night, good for 4 pax
Fares:
₱30 per person – Boat fee from Angasil Port to Olango Island Port (one-way)
₱10 per person – Terminal fee (one-way)
₱20 per person – Tricycle fare from Olango Island Port to San Vicente Marine Sanctuary
Exact Location: Sitio Sabang, Barangay Asinan, Olango Island, Lapu-Lapu City — approx. 2 hours away from the city.
Located in Brgy. Sabang, Olango Island, the Eco-Tourism Park is just a 20-minute boat ride away from mainland Mactan. You can also travel by bicycle to reach the area from Santa Rosa Port of Olango Island.
BY JEEPNEY: Ride any jeepney to SM City Cebu. From there, you can ride a 01K jeepney (near Sun Gold) going to Parkmall or if you are from Cebu City, you can ride 01K jeepney from Emall. When you get to Parkmall, ride a jeepney heading to Soong and drop off at Hilton port beside Movenpick Hotel. Fare is around ₱20 per person. Upon arrival, look for a boat towards Olango Island. Boat Fare is around ₱30 for a one-way trip.
In need of new clothes but on a budget? Good news! Well-loved Filipino clothing brand Penshoppe offers ‘OctoberBest Deals’ this October 2020.
You can get up to 70% OFF on great selections at most Penshoppe branches nationwide, including their stores in Cebu at SM Seaside, SM City Cebu, Ayala Center Cebu, Robinsons Galleria Cebu, among others.
We saw items sold for as low as P99, and shirts and sweatshirts for P299. Check out some of the items on sale:
When going out, make sure to observe the following:
Bring your quarantine pass or Certificate of Employment (COE) upon entry.
Must wear a face mask and face shield at all times.
Observe physical distancing.
Also don’t forget to wash your hands frequently and disinfect thoroughly as soon as you get home.
Many innovative ways have emerged to adapt to new routines and adhere to social distancing measures during the months-long quarantine. Food delivery services, for one, have become one of the most in-demand services.
On August 2020, Central Delivery by Landers brings back five of Cebu’s best and well-loved homegrown restaurants by launching their new service and commitment to safely deliver these cravings straight to one’s doorstep.
Pinoy food favorites from Kuya J
Kuya J’s Filipino specialties are ideal for a salu-salo at home with loved ones for any occasion. Feast on all-time favorites from their signature Kuya J Crispy Pata, Kare-Kare, Beef Caldereta, Lumpia Presko, to Ube Halo-Halo for dessert.
Kuya J SM Seaside branch is also open to serve for dine-in and takeout orders from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily. Kuya J is located at the Upper Ground Floor, Mountain Wing.
Timeless Chinese dishes from Majestic
Rich in flavor and history, Cebu’s well-loved Chinese Restaurant never fails to bring a sense of nostalgia with every taste. Its bestselling Patatim Seat, Majestic Fried Chicken, Braised Beef and Wanton Mami, and Lechon Macau are must-tries among its selection of Chinese classic food offerings.
Majestic Restaurant SM Seaside City Cebu branch is now open from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily. Majestic is located at the Second Floor, Seaview Wing.
Seafood delights from Isla Sugbu Seafood City
Indulge in the islands’ freshest catch from award-winning restaurant Isla Sugbu Seafood City’s lineup of seafood dishes. Mixed Seafood in Kare-Kare Sauce is an easy favorite, along with Calamari, Black Ink Squid Adobo, and Steamed Pompano with Chili Tausi.
Pizza, Burgers and Comfort Food from Landers Central
Enjoy a gastronomic trip to the “concrete jungle” right from home with Landers Central’s all-American comfort food offerings. Delight in its N.Y. Cheese Deluxe Pizza, Creamy Truffle Pasta and U.S. Angus Beef Burger, best topped with French Fries.
Sweet Treats and Pantry Staples from Dough & Co.
Treat yourself to a decadent snack from Dough & Co. and indulge in an assortment of desserts and pastries made only from the finest ingredients. Get your sweet fix with its Choco Chip Muffins, Marble Creme Cake, Raspberry White Choco Cookie, Cinnamon Roll, and Cacao Croissant.
To order, visit www.centraldelivery.ph, enter the delivery address and select a restaurant of choice. Deliveries are available daily within the cities of Cebu and some areas of Mandaue from 9AM to 8PM. For more information and updates, visit https://www.facebook.com/CentralDeliveryPH/.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shaken our lives in ways we could never imagine. Closure of our favorite restaurants, suspension of classes, even loss of someone else’s job, these changes are very evident. Because of the pandemic, looking for ways to survive has been scrutinizing, especially because going to offices to apply for your next job is almost close to impossible.
Why would you go through the scare of a possible contact and brave the outside world to reach your office when you can do so on your mobile or laptop and an internet connection? The days are here when searching and applying for a job can be conveniently done at home.
As we are about to embrace the new normal, businesses have slowly adapted to the new trend and applying for a job is now a walk in the park, especially thanks to virtual applications. Apply from home and get the chance to land that job you have always wanted.
Guess what? We have good news for you!
Jobstreet, Southeast Asia’s largest online employment marketplace, has everything you could ever ask for – a wide array of work-from-home (WFH) jobs and thousands of other job vacancies in search for your new career opportunity. There are even hundreds of vacancies in Cebu!
With Jobstreet, you need not to fret about visiting an office to send your resume and visiting yet again for the job interview. Jobstreet makes it easy and convenient for you! Just prepare your curriculum vitae and cover letter, and make sure your Jobstreet profile is updated so you are off to ace your next opportunity.
#WorkNow: Making the job search faster
#WorkNowis Jobstreet’s newest feature to help you find your next employer. Simply update your Jobstreet profile and add ‘#WorkNow’. Employers’ Human Resource persons will then be notified that you are ready to apply.
HOW TO UPDATE YOUR PROFILE?
Login to your Jobstreet account. Or sign up for an account at jobstreet.com.ph. Registration is free!
Click “Update My Profile”, then click “Additional Info”.
Go to the “Other Information” box at the lower part of the screen. Click the pencil icon to edit. And type in “#WorkNow”.
That’s it! Save your profile and you are good to go!
JOBS IN CEBU
Cebuanos need not to worry about being in various places. Whether you are residing in Cebu City, in Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, Lahug, or someplace else, Jobstreet has a job especially suited for you based on your preferred location.
Meanwhile, these are some of the Cebu-based companies who are looking for job applications like you. Find them here.
There are literally over 100 job vacancies in Cebu, and these can be conveniently applied online on Jobstreet. You do not need to go through all the hassle of a job application because Jobstreet has already made it easy for you.
Look for a job that suits you and your liking. With Jobstreet, you will surely make it through.
