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Alibaba Founder Jack Ma & Manny Pacquiao donate 50,000 test kits for COVID-19 in the Philippines

Alibaba founder, Jack Ma, and “Ang Pambanasang Kamao”, Manny Pacquiao, have joined hands to help in the fight against COVID-19.

With fear and panic currently spreading in the Philippines, it is really nice to hear that help and consideration are also flooding in our country.

Senator Manny Pacquiao and Chinese billionaire Jack Ma have partnered and pledged to donate 50,000 test kits for the novel corona virus, COVID-19.

“We’re excited to announce the Jack Ma Foundation, in partnership with Pacquiao Foundation is pledging 50,000 test kits to combat COVID-19 in the Philippines,”

Manny Pacquiao said in an Instagram post.

The sad case found earlier that the Department of Health only has 2,000 COVID-19 testing kits may have spurred people to take action and help as much as they can. 

“With everything that’s happening around the world today, there is no better time to unite and do whatever we can to help each other,”

Pacquiao added.

Our country is under a state of public health emergency, as it is great that we are receiving a lot of help, we should all do our part and stay home, stay safe and stay informed.

SM Group to donate P100 million aid for COVID-19 kits and supplies

SM Group, one of the biggest companies here in the Philippines, has announced that it will be donating P100 million to government hospitals. They are focusing to aid in the efforts against the COVID-19 outbreak, starting with the frontliners of the said global crisis, the health workers.

 “To ensure the safety of medical frontliners, SM is bringing in personal protective equipment (PPE) – face masks, gowns, visors, hoods, gloves, and shoe covers, as well as urgent medical supplies to help government hospitals who badly need them,”

said SM Prime’s Hans Sy.

The provision of this aid will be extended to the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), whose medical staffs are first in the line in the fight against COVID-19. It will also help the Research Institute for Tropical Management (RITM) under the Department of Health (DOH) who performs diagnostic testing for COVID-19. RITM can now release confirmatory results within 24-48 hours of receiving samples.

“SM is bringing in personal protective equipment (PPE)—face masks, gowns, visors, hoods, gloves, and shoe covers, as well as urgent medical supplies to help government hospitals who badly need them,” Sy added.

Other SM aids:

  • UP Medical Foundation Inc,- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and medical supplies to be distributed  to hospitals.
  • Manila Healthtek Inc. – partner to distribute 20,000 tests for free to government hospitals once approved.

List of Tourist Attractions in Cebu that are temporarily closed due to COVID-19

STAY AT HOME — this is what the Department of Health (DOH) strongly advise the public to stop the spread of Corona Virus 2019 or COVID-19 as it continues to rise every day.

With this, most municipalities in Cebu have announced the closure of some tourist spots, establishments and resorts. For your easy reference, here is the list of attractions that are temporarily closed until further notice.

Oslob

  • Whale Shark Activity Area
  • Tumalog Falls
  • Sumilon Island

Badian

  • Kawasan Falls
  • Canyoneering

Tabuelan

  • Maravilla public beach
  • ALL public & private beach resorts in Tabuelan

As of this writing, the municipalities of Balamban, Dalaguete, Daanbantayan, Bantayan Island, San Remigio, and Alcoy have not yet announced the closure of popular tourist attractions in their area.

Major Attractions in Cebu

Meanwhile, here are the temporary operating hours and/or social distancing implementations of major attractions in Cebu:

Anjo World Theme Park

Temporarily CLOSED until further notice.

WaterWorld Cebu

WaterWorld Cebu recently announced the temporary CLOSURE of the whole park, starting on March 16 until further notice.

Cebu Safari and Adventure Park

Temporarily CLOSED until further notice.

Cebu Ocean Park

(UPDATED) Temporarily CLOSED until further notice.

COVID-19

As the threat of the Coronavirus 2019 or COVID-19 rises everyday, and with 98 confirmed cases (as of this writing) here in the Philippines, the Cebu province has taken a proactive approach and is pulling all stops in protecting the island. Here’s everything you need to know about COVID-19 and its symptoms: https://sugbo.ph/2020/corona-virus-in-cebu/

With this, an Executive Order was issued for the implementation of the drastic but necessary measures to avoid the spread of the virus. For more information, head on to: https://sugbo.ph/2020/cebu-implements-drastic-measures/

If you are sick and think you have symptoms of COVID-19, seek medical attention, call the local Coronavirus Health Information Line for advice: 0922-397-2334 / 0943-568-3298 / (032) 402-3091 / (032) 402-1269. OR, go directly to the nearest hospital or medical center or see a doctor and seek medical attention.

Globe, Smart/PLDT, SKY announce 30-day bill payment extension

Now more than ever, communication is vital to our country.

The rise in the confirmed cases of COVID-19 virus has placed Cebu and most of the nation under community quarantine. It’s a restriction in the movement of people. In layman’s term, that is to stay indoors and stay at home.

With this, telecommunications companies have seen the importance to stay at home and stay informed, and have taken their part in helping us get through this global health crisis.

Globe, PLDT / Smart and SKY have announced that they will have a 30-day bill payment extension for all of its postpaid subscribers.

Truly a good news indeed and a great help to all their customers, especially to those people who are working at home and an encouragement to every Filipino to stay indoors.

You can now binge watch all your favorite Netflix series, stay connected with your family who are far away and be updated with everything that’s going on in the world.

Globe

“To help you remain connected with your loved ones, we are giving all Globe Postpaid (mobile and broadband), including business and enterprise customers nationwide, a 30-day bill payment extension from your due date.”

SMART/PLDT

“We’ve put in place a 30-day payment extension period for all our postpaid customers of PLDT Home, PLDT Enterprise, Smart & Sun Postpaid.”

SKY

“We support the need for the public to stay at home. We also understand your need to have an uninterrupted experience of your SKYCable and internet service. For this reason, we are extending your bill payment period by another 30 days.”

SM Seaside lights up in PH flag colors to cheer up Cebu amidst the COVID-19

SM Seaside City Cebu, the biggest shopping mall in Cebu, the biggest mall in Cebu, has lit up its iconic tower and cube on Sunday night, March 15, with the Philippine flag colors, red and blue.

This is said to be the mall’s way of lightening up the mood of Cebuanos amidst the COVID-19 outbreak.

On the other hand, SM Seaside City Cebu also announced the adjusted mall hours as a precautionary measure to stop the spread of COVID-19. SM City Cebu, SM Consolacion and other SM Supermalls nationwide (mostly), also follow the same mall schedule.

As the threat of the Coronavirus 2019 or COVID-19 rises everyday, and with 98 confirmed cases (as of this writing) here in the Philippines, the Cebu province has taken a proactive approach and is pulling all stops in protecting the island.

With this, an Executive Order was issued for the implementation of the drastic but necessary measures to avoid the spread of the virus. For more information, head on to: https://sugbo.ph/2020/cebu-implements-drastic-measures/

For real-time updates on COVID-19 in the Philippines, go to the official website of DOH Philippines or here: https://www.doh.gov.ph/2019-nCov

How to get to SM Seaside?

BY MYBUS: You can take a FREE MyBus ride from/to BDO Fuente Osmena. Or ride any MyBus from SM City Cebu, Talisay, Mandaue City, Parkmall. Check the routes & schedules here: https://sugbo.ph/2019/cebu-mybus-guide/

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

Cebu implements drastic measures to stop spread of COVID-19

“We can no longer stand idle while there is a clear and present danger.” -Gov. Gwen Garcia

As the threat of the Corona Virus 2019 or COVID-19 rises everyday, and with 98 confirmed cases (as of this writing) here in the Philippines, the Cebu province has taken a proactive approach and is pulling all stops in protecting the island.

Covid-19 was classified by the Department of Health (DOH) as a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern” and is primarily spread from person to person.

With this, an Executive Order was issued for the implementation of the drastic but necessary measures to avoid the spread of the virus.

It will be 30 days of strict control over passengers coming in through its airports and all seaports.

“As we close our seaports to ingress of passengers, we are not prohibiting Cebuanos to go out of Cebu, but if they go out, they will not be able to come back in 30 days,” said Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia.

We have curated here all the information discussed at the Sugbo News Live with Gov. Gwen Garcia.

Current banned flights and ships

  • Manila
  • Dumaguete
  • Cagayan de Oro
  • Other places with confirmed cases

Banned flights and ships starting March 16 (12:01am)

  • Clark
  • Legazpi
  • Cagayan de Oro

Banned flights and ships starting March 17 (12:01am)

  • ALL domestic flights (Arriving in Cebu)
  • All sea travel (Arriving in Cebu)

Curfew  

  • Cebu province: 10PM to 5AM
  • Cebu City: 8PM to 5AM
  • Lapu-Lapu City: 10PM to 5AM

Classes Suspended

  • ALL LEVELS
  • Coverage: All of Cebu Province (towns & cities)

Closed Establishments

  • Movie houses
  • cockpits
  • gyms
  • museums
  • cultural and sports centers

New Operating Hours

  • Cebu province: allowed to open until 9PM
  • Cebu City: allowed to open until 8PM
  • Lapu-Lapu City: allowed to open until 8PM
  • Coverage:
    • Malls
    • Restaurants
    • Cafes
    • Bars
    • Shopping centers

Gatherings are cancelled

  • Sports activities
  • Other gatherings

Others

  • Free movement of cargoes shall continue
  • Mandatory quarantine of passengers will now include Spain in addition to those who have passed by Iran and Italy
  • Policemen will be deployed in all airports and seaports to monitor arrivals and ensure strict implementation of the rules.
  • Religious leaders are encouraged to practice social distancing in all their religious activities

Enhanced Community Quarantine

On March 26, 2020, the Cebu Province, including independent cities – Cebu City, Mandaue City and Lapu-Lapu City, has been placed under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ).

What is an Enhanced Community Quarantine?

Under “general community quarantine”, people are generally limited to “accessing basic necessities and work” while uniformed personnel and quarantine officers are present at border points.

The second level is called “enhanced community quarantine” which generally means:

  • Strict home quarantine (going out for no valid reason is strictly not allowed)
  • Suspended public transportation (may vary per city)
  • Food and health services will be regulated
  • Arriving international flights are strictly not allowed. Departing flights are still allowed.
  • More uniformed personnel (with the help of AFP and PNP) will help implement the ECQ.

NOTE: The specific guidelines of the Cebu province and the individual cities in Cebu (Cebu City, Mandaue City, Lapu-Lapu City) may differ.

Banks, ATM machines, supermarkets, and pharmacies will still be open. Government offices will still continue to operate, as well as other private companies in the food and beverages industry, medicine, banks, telecos, and BPOs but with a minimum number of employees.

Effectivity:

  • Cebu Province – Effective today as stated by Gov. Gwen Garcia
  • Cebu City – 12:00 NN, March 28, 2020 until 12:00NN of April 28, 2020 or unless sooner lifted or withdrawn
  • Mandaue City – 12:01 AM, March 29, 2020
  • Lapu-Lapu City – 12:01 AM, March 29, 2020

ORATIO IMPERATA for COVID-19

Prayer against COVID-19.

COVID-19 Cebu

As the threat of the Coronavirus 2019 or COVID-19 rises everyday, and with 98 confirmed cases (as of this writing) here in the Philippines, the Cebu province has taken a proactive approach and is pulling all stops in protecting the island. Here’s everything you need to know about COVID-19 and its symptoms: https://sugbo.ph/2020/corona-virus-in-cebu/

With this, an Executive Order was issued for the implementation of the drastic but necessary measures to avoid the spread of the virus. For more information, head on to: https://sugbo.ph/2020/cebu-implements-drastic-measures/

If you are sick and think you have symptoms of COVID-19, seek medical attention, call the local Coronavirus Health Information Line for advice: 0922-397-2334 / 0943-568-3298 / (032) 402-3091 / (032) 402-1269. OR, go directly to the nearest hospital or medical center or see a doctor and seek medical attention.

Here’s why you should hand-wash more than just using alcohol or sanitizers

If you have not bought more than 5 bottles of alcohol or hand sanitizers, fret not because according to research, soap is one of the most, if not the most, effective ways to fight COVID-19.

As the COVID-19 cases in the Philippines continue to rise and fear sweeps the whole nation, Filipinos want to make sure to be prepared in case of a total lockdown. Hence, residents flock from one supermarket to the other to buy supplies and hoard alcohol and sanitizers. However, did you know that more than alcohol and hand sanitizers, doctors encourage for you to wash your hands with soap and water?

Yes, soap, being a consumer product, plays a critical role to our great world-wide battle to send to the drain the pandemic, COVID-19. With soap and water, you are not only going to wash COVID-19 down the drain, you are helping in killing the virus.

Why is this so?

The COVID-19 can be spread with the use of our hands. If someone is sick, mucus and viral particles could be sticking to our hands. Our hands could pick up droplets containing the virus and could unfortunately enter our bodies once we use our hands to touch our face. That is why, our hands are our frontliners in our campaign to fight COVID-19.

According to the World Health Organization, there are two measures to effectively fight COVID-19; social isolation and cleaning our hands.

If you have access to a sink or water and soap, always make it a habit to do so. Wash your hands with soap and water. Not only alcohol or hand sanitizer. Not just water. Wash your hands with soap and water.

Parents should teach their children how to hand-wash properly

According to resident Doctor Margaret Pajanel of Ospital ng Manila: “To make it simple: Soap is made of fat and the key that holds the virus together is the lipid layer on the outside. So to break the lipid layer, the soap will disassemble it and the virus falls apart.”

Dr. Pajanel clarified that soap, alcohol, and hand sanitizer could all help in fighting the virus. However, it’s always SOAP > ALCOHOL > SOAP. Therefore, if you have access to soap and water, always consider it before the on-the-go alternatives, alcohol and sanitizer.

How to hand-wash properly (by DOH Philippines)

Proper Hygiene Check List

COVID-19 Cebu

As the threat of the Coronavirus 2019 or COVID-19 rises every day, the Cebu province has taken a proactive approach and is pulling all stops in protecting the island. Here’s everything you need to know about COVID-19 and its symptoms: https://sugbo.ph/2020/corona-virus-in-cebu/

With this, an Executive Order was issued for the implementation of the drastic but necessary measures to avoid the spread of the virus. For more information, head on to: https://sugbo.ph/2020/cebu-implements-drastic-measures/

If you are sick and think you have symptoms of COVID-19, seek medical attention, call the local Coronavirus Health Information Line for advice: 0922-397-2334 / 0943-568-3298 / (032) 402-3091 / (032) 402-1269.

Cebuana Beauty Queens vying for Miss Universe Philippines 2020

In an annual countdown, a number of beauty pageants happen across the country. Each event would never be complete without representatives from the country’s pageant powerhouse – Cebu. One of the most anticipated events of all this year is the Miss Universe Philippines, it is a national pageant which aims to select a representative to compete in the prestigious international pageant – Miss Universe.

Last 2019, Philippines was represented by Ms. Gazini Ganados, a confidently proud Cebuana, in the Miss Universe 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. This year, three strong, smart, and beautiful Cebuanas, namely Tracy Maureen Perez, Apriel Smith, and Lou Dominique Piczon, are on the run to becoming the country’s next representative in the grandest international pageant after having been selected as official candidates for the first edition of Miss Universe Philippines.

Let’s get to know more about Cebu’s three gorgeous representatives.

1. Lou Dominique Piczon

Piczon, a 24-year old Cebuana diva, has racked several titles before being crowned as Binibining Cebu Heritage 2018 and also becoming an official candidate on this year’s Miss Universe Philippines. She was USJR’s Ms. Intramural 2014, Reyna ng Aliwan 2016, Ms. Summer Queen 2013 first runner-up, and many more

2. Tracy Maureen Perez

Perez’s first ever pageant was Miss TC 2011 which happened when she was in college. And with her intelligence, wit, and dedication, she undoubtedly won. Perez is an Industrial Engineering student in the University of San Carlos.

She has won several titles and has achieved so much before she participated in national pageants. She was Binibining Cebu Charity 2018, and placed 2nd runner-up during Miss Cebu in 2016, and was also one of the Top 12 in Miss World 2019. This year, she will represent Cebu City in Miss Universe Philippines.

3. Apriel Smith

Smith, with her exquisitely beautiful skin, was hailed as “The Black Barbie of Cebu” by Danny Booc, her manager. This 23-year old beauty queen has been quite busy collecting titles and chasing her dreams at an early age. She was Miss Little Olympics 2010, Sinulog Festival Queen 2012, Miss Mandaue 3rd runner-up, Miss Dumanjug 2011, Miss Cebu City Olympics 2012, and the first-ever Binibing Cebu 2017. This year, Smith will be representing Cebu Province in Miss Universe Philippines.

Did you know? Piczon, Smith, and Perez are all handled by one of the well-known camps in the world of Philippine pageantry, the Aces and Queens.

Where to Watch?

Schedule of Events:

  • Preliminary Night: Friday, October 23, 2020 at 7PM
  • Pageant Night (Coronation): Sunday, October 25, 2020 at 9AM

Where to watch?

  • LIVE (9AM): Tickets for the Live online viewing can be purchased on KTX.ph
  • REPLAY (10:30PM): Replay will be shown on GMA-7 at 10:30PM

For the pageant updates, follow Miss Universe Philippines on Facebook.

Updates

OCTOBER 23, 2020 (PRELIMINARY NIGHT):

  • Mandaue City’s Lou Piczon wins Best National Costume
  • Cebu City’s Tracy Maureen Perez wins Miss Photogenic

Dao Falls: The majestic waterfall in Samboan

Chasing waterfalls is indeed one of the best hobbies any brave adventurer should experience.

Luckily, Cebu has no shortage when it comes to breathtaking waterfalls, particularly in the southern part. Samboan, a humble town in southern Cebu, boasts a variety of dazzling waterfalls and indeed, Dao Falls is one of the best.

Dao Falls Samboan Cebu (1)
Nat Luperte

Dao Falls’s unique magnificence makes it a perfect weekend destination. Visually stunning, not only your visual senses would surely be satisfied but as well as that much needed cold dip in fresh waters.

The trek towards the falls may be tricky and slippery but surely, it would be a rewarding one. Be noted that it would take at least 30 minutes to reach the cascade starting from the trailhead going to Barangay Suba.

Not only is Dao Falls considered the most beautiful in Samboan, but is also the tallest waterfall in the town, boasting an approximate height of 120 meters.

Rates & Other Information

  • Entrance fee: ₱20 per person
  • Tour guide: ₱100-200 per group (not required but recommended)

Note:

  • Overnight stay / camping is not allowed.
  • There is an available comfort room.
  • Food and refreshments can be purchased at the registration area. The place can sometimes get crowded during peak seasons.
  • Should you have any questions or concerns, you may contact the Samboan Municipal Office at (032) 479-4073.

How To Get There?

Exact location: Brgy. Suba, Samboan, southern Cebu — 3-4 hours away from the city.

BY BUS: From the Cebu South Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound to Bato/Liloan via Barili/Samboan and you can tell the driver to be dropped off at Dao Eskina. Estimated bus fare is ₱200.

Once you’re in Dao Eskina, you can take a tricycle or a habal-habal towards the trailhead. Fare is ₱20 per person for the both vehicles. Reaching the trailhead, you still have to trek for about half an hour to Dao Falls where you can pay the entrance fee. Be reminded that a tour guide, readily available for a tip-based rate, is required once you enter the premises.

Prioritizing Health Care: Top Hospitals in Metro Cebu

In this modern age we often overwork ourselves to the point where we turn our backs to the pillars of our body: our own health care. And quite recently, a lot of sicknesses and illnesses have come to wreck our own bodies. To avoid getting sick, we must never forget that our own health comes first, and to have a proper health care, a good hospital should cater to your needs.

1. Cebu Doctors’ University Hospital

Cebu Doctors’ University Hospital is both a medical tertiary education institution and a healthcare provider all in one. It gives future doctors and medical practitioners to have a more in-depth study and research by being on the actual field and having actual professional doctors as mentors and professors. Like Chong Hua Hospital, it has top-quality facilities and a humbling past, and it is continuing its vision and mission of providing quality health care.

OTHER INFORMATION

How to get there?

Exact Location: Osmeña Blvd, Cebu City, 6000 (near Fuente Osmeña Circle)

BY JEEPNEY: Ride any jeepney going to Osemana Blvd or Capitol (e.g. From Guadalupe, ride 06B; From Colon, ride 07B or 14D; From Labangon ride 12L)

BY CAR: Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Cebu Doctors’ University Hospital”.

2. Chong Hua Hospital

Cebu City (Main)

A hospital owned and managed by Asociación Benévola de Cebú, Chong Hua Hospital prides itself on its state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. It has served the Filipinos since it was founded in 1909, and continues to improve in helping people with their health-related issues. The hospital could house quite a lot with their 660 beds. It is also very accessible as it is located in the heart of Cebu, the Fuente Osmeña Circle, although there is also one in Mandaue.

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Contact numbers: (032) 255-8000 (Cebu City branch) / 233-8000 (Mandaue Branch)
  • Email address: [email protected]
  • Website: www.chonghua.com.ph
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Locations:
    • 1: Don Mariano Cui Street, Fuente Osmeña Circle, Cebu City
    • 2: North Reclamation Area, Mandaue City, Cebu

How to get there?

Exact Location: Don Mariano Cui Street, Fuente Osmeña Circle, Cebu City (Main hospital)

BY JEEPNEY: Ride any jeepney going to Fuente Osmena Circle (e.g. if from Labangon, you can ride 12L; if from Guadalupe, 06C is available, and can also be ridden from Colon along with 14D.)

BY CAR: Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Chong Hua Hospital”.

3. Perpetual Succour Hospital

This hospital is a private and Catholic hospital owned and managed by the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres. Those who share the same faith would come here to let God be their doctor as well. As the church being their foundation, they pursue their aim to help people in their problems in health and wellness. The establishment is rich in history, dating back to World War II, and has helped people since.

OTHER INFORMATION

How to get there?

Exact Location: Gorordo Ave, Cebu City — only 5 minutes away from Ayala Center Cebu.

BY JEEPNEY: Ride any jeepney going to Gorordo Ave or General Maxilom Ave (e.g. From Guadalupe, ride 06H, drop off at the Golden Peak, and walk through Gorordo Ave and Gonzales Compound; From Colon, ride 13B and drop off at the corner of the Archbishop Reyes Ave and walk through the Gonzales Compound; From Labangon, ride 12L and drop off at the Iglesia ni Cristo Chapel and walk through Filimon Sotto Drive)

BY CAR: Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Perpetual Succour Hospital”.

4. Cebu Velez General Hospital

Cebu Velez General Hospital is in ways the same as Cebu Doctors’ University Hospital in the sense that they also have an educational institution: The Velez College. The hospital can cater many people, with an approximate minimum being 8000 patients annually. With students and pupils of medicine just nearby, it gives a proper chance of learning more accurately and continuing on the flames of medical service.

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Contact number: (032) 253-1871
  • Velez Medical Arts: (032) 412-0546, 232-0790, 0916-599-3899, 0922-514-2489
  • Email address: N/A
  • Website: N/A
  • Social: Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact Location: F. Ramos St, Cebu City, Cebu — only 5 minutes away from Fuente Osmena Circle.

BY JEEPNEY: Ride any jeepney going to F. Ramos St (e.g. From Guadalupe, ride 06B or 06C, drop off at Crown Regency Hotel at Osmena Blvd, and walk; From Colon, ride 04I; From Labangon ride 12I then 04I)

BY CAR: Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Cebu Velez General Hospital”.

5. Mactan Doctors Hospital

Mactan Doctors’ Hospital is a 151 bed tertiary private hospital offering a total healthcare provider to both local and foreign patients fully equipped with the latest cutting edge technology for your optimum diagnostic and therapeutic treatment.

It is conveniently located to cater patients in Basak, Lapu-Lapu City.

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Contact number: (032) 239-7002 to 7016
  • Email address: [email protected]
  • Website: cebudocgroup.com
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Exact Location: Marigondon road, Basak, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu — only 20 minutes away from Mactan Cebu International Airport.