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PhilHealth Dental Coverage for As Low As Php 1,000.00 Per Year?

Makasmile najud ta anig tarung, Sugboanons!

Photo from Canva

The Board of Directors of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) approved the expansion of services for dental coverage.

Health Secretary Teodroa Herbosa expressed the importance of oral care for Filipinos and to make it accessible in order to improve the country’s overall health care.

Photo from Canva

The following are the inclusions for the new dental coverage:

  • Emergency dental service
  • Oral examination
  • Dental cleaning
  • Flouride varnish application
  • Fissure sealants
  • Emergency tooth extraction
  • Dental consultations
  • Class V procedures

Dental Care for As Low As Php 1,000.00 Annually

Dental care will soon be available for as low as Php 1,000 annually. This package covers up to two visits per year, with a Php 300 payment per visit, and includes all essential services. PhilHealth members can also opt to add up to two more teeth annually for more complex procedures.

Photo from Canva

Other Better Benefits Aiming for Board Approval

Recently, PhilHealth has been actively exploring additional healthcare services to benefit Filipinos. With the approval of the new dental care coverage, we are now awaiting the announcement of the other four “Better Benefits” inclusions they shared:

  • Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) or heart attacks Continuum Care Package
  • Maple Syrup Urine Disease, Methylmalonic Acidemia/Propionic Acidemia, Galactosemia, Phenylketonuria, Gaucher Disease, Pompe Disease, Fabry Disease, MPS II (Hunter Syndrome), MPS IV (Morquio Syndrome), and Osteogenesis Imperfecta Health Care Package
  • Peritoneal Dialysis Additional Coverage Inclusion
  • Physical Rehabilitation Health Care Package

More detailed information will be disclosed by PhilHealth soon, so stay tuned mga tingsi-on nga Sugboanon!

Cebu Weather Forecast: Cloudy & Rainy Days Ahead

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Nabasa sad mu gabie, Sugboanons?

Photo from Canva

What a drenched day it is in Cebu! This week, we have generally experienced fair weather with no significant disturbances. That’s good news, right?

Photo from PAGASA

As of Friday, today, by the end of the week (Saturday), the weather will shift mostly from cloudy to cloudy skies with chances of scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms. PAGASA hasn’t monitored any low-pressure area currently yet, but stay updated by the news.

Photo from Canva

Temperatures today will slightly cool to a range of 27°C and 31°C. On Saturday, expect a cooler range of 25°C to 30°C. The hottest part of the day is between 10AM to 3PM. And tonight occasional downpours are expected. Wind will be light to moderate through the week, with coastal waters remaining calm to slightly rough.

Photo from Canva

Cebu has a chance of storms over the weekend. The public is advised to keep monitoring PAGASA updates, particularly for thunderstorm advisories, which are available on their Facebook page. You should stay informed, especially if planning outdoor activities.

Hush During Wicked: Here’s How The Philippines Earned Its Reputation As A Country With Great Singers

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99% of Filipinos can hold a tune; hi to the 1%, okay pa mu?

When the world hears the word “Filipinio,” only two things come to their minds- one is, best nurses, and two, best singers! But, how did we end up being known as the “Singing Country?” Well, we dug a bit into how it all came to be, and here’s a jist of it:

We had the harana tradition

Photo from canva

Although di na uso ang harana, we still do serenades when courting, just not blatantly in the middle of the street where the entire neighborhood will know of it, but it’s done discreetly, either through a private song rendition or via song request to a DJ.

We sing religiously (as a predominantly Catholic country)

Photo from canva

Masses are filled with songs, for almost every part of it. And because we’re a religious country, we have embraced hymns and choral music. In connection, the Philippines is also known as one of the countries who keeps bagging trophies and awards for international choral competitions; which is not a surprise at all!

Karaoke is in our genes

Photo from canva

Karaoke is our culture, regardless of where you are in the Philippines; be it in a public and private space. Because of that it has made singing accessible to anyone, whether you have formal training or not.

We established global recognition

The names of Lea Salonga, Charice Pempengco, Apl de Ap, Garry V. and Morisette Amon are some of the leading Filipino-bloods whom our international folks already know of. Due to that, we have music schools, local competitions, and live performance shows that help in improving our singing skills.

In sum, the Philippines’ reputation as a “singing country” is the result of its strong musical traditions, the widespread popularity of karaoke, a deep-rooted culture of performance, and the country’s natural vocal talents. So, ang pangutana, apil ba ka sa mga talented singing Sugboanons? 

Deck the Halls: Hotels for Your Upcoming Christmas Parties

As Christmas is coming pretty soon, the excitement to plan a memorable holiday celebration is hard to resist, especially with the Christmas break just around the corner. So, whether you’re organizing a festive gathering for your friends, employees, or a joyful family reunion, it’s the perfect time to create an unforgettable party that brings everyone together. But then, the question is: WHERE?

Photo from Waterfront Cebu Official Facebook Page

Finding the perfect venue for your Christmas party is one of the first—and most important—steps in creating a memorable holiday celebration. It’s essential to choose a space that not only fits your guest list but also reflects the spirit of the season, whether that means a cozy, winter-themed space or a grand ballroom filled with twinkling lights.

With so many options, here we list down hotels or resorts that offer special venues where you can celebrate that Christmas party your group’s been planning since last year.

DUSIT THANI

Photo from Dusit Thani Official Facebook Page

Celebrate the magic of a truly Filipino Christmas at Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, where heartfelt traditions and world-class hospitality come together to create an unforgettable holiday experience. From sumptuous festive feasts to exclusive room packages, thoughtful gift options, and beyond—every detail is crafted with joy. Their stunning venues have personalized event packages to ensure your celebration is nothing short of spectacular.

Photo from Dusit Thani Official Facebook Page

Join them in embracing the warmth of Paskong Pinoy, surrounded by family, friends, and the spirit of togetherness. Let Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu be the backdrop to your most memorable holiday season yet.

Photo from Dusit Thani Official Facebook Page
Photo from Dusit Thani Official Facebook Page
Photo from Dusit Thani Official Facebook Page

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

*Rates are subject to change according to venue and any supplementary fees.

Event Areas

  • Dusit Ballroom
    • Host up to 700 guests
    • 1,235 sq. m
  • Sampaguita
    • Host up to 50 guests
    • 95 sq. m
  • Orchid
    • Host up to 50 guests
    • 95 sq. m
  • Jasmine
    • Accommodate up to 50 guests
    • 100 sq. m
  • Lotus
    • Accommodate up to 50 guests
    • 100 sq. m

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Punta Engaño Road, Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City, Philippines

  • Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu is located on the northern tip of the Punta Engano Peninsula. It is easily accessible by land and sea transport, just 11 km from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and is accessible to nearby points of interest and popular island-hopping ports.
  • BY CAR: Navigate via Waze or Google map and pin the exact location above or “Dusit Thani Cebu” as your destination.

MAAYO HOTEL

Photo from Maayo Hotel’s Official Facebook Page

The Maayo Hotel offers a Grand Ballroom, combining elegance and versatility, making it the ideal venue for any event. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, convention, social gathering, or especially a spectacular Christmas Blowout Party, this spacious and adaptable space is designed to suit your needs.

Photo from Maayo Hotel’s Official Facebook Page

Equipped with a state-of-the-art audiovisual system, customizable lighting options, and a dedicated team of event specialists, Maayo Hotel ensures seamless planning and flawless execution. Whether the party you’re hosting is just a small gathering or a large-scale celebration, the Maayo Grand Ballroom guarantees a memorable and successful event.

Photo from Maayo Hotel’s Official Facebook Page

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

*Rates are subject to change according to venue and any supplementary fees.

  • Number of event venues: 2
  • Event space: 115 sq. m.
  • Room capacity: 350 people

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: 168 Plaridel Street, Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines

  • BY CAR: Navigate via Waze or Google map and pin the exact location above or “Maayo Hotel Mandaue” as your destination.

SHANGRI-LA

Photo from Shangri-La Mactan Cebu Official Facebook Page

Instead of finding a venue for the Christmas party, how about you just celebrate Christmas with a nice, mouthwatering dinner.

Photo from Shangri-La Mactan Cebu Official Facebook Page

This holiday, indulge in a culinary adventure where every dish captures the magic of the season and every bite tells a festive tale. Shangri-La has chefs with crafted menus inspired by the holiday’s finest flavors, each plate a celebration of Cebuano warmth and creativity.

Celebrate with loved ones in the captivating ambiance of their restaurants, where every detail sparkles with the joy of the season. Relish traditional Christmas favorites that bring back fond memories, alongside innovative dishes designed to delight your palate.

Photo from Shangri-La Mactan Cebu Official Facebook Page

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

Photo from Shangri-La Mactan Cebu Official Facebook Page

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Punta Engaño Rd, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu

  • BY BUS: Ride any bus/ PUJ going to Punta Engaño in Lapu-Lapu, and ask the driver to drop you off at the bus stop near Shangri-La Mactan Resort.
  • BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu” in Lapu-Lapu. Parking space is available.

WATERFRONT

Photo from Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino Official Facebook Page

Christmas this year for Waterfront Cebu offers another Christmas Party Package for their beloved guests—also for outside hotel guests. This package is designed for groups of 100 or more with everything you need—fun, festive, and hassle-free events.

Photo from Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino Official Facebook Page

You’ll enjoy a beautiful venue for four hours, complete with Christmas-themed table centerpieces that set the perfect holiday mood. Indulge in a deliciously managed buffet menu—all curated to satisfy your festive cravings.

Photo from Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino Official Facebook Page

Secure your slot now and make your holiday season truly magical!

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

Photo from Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino Official Facebook Page

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Salinas Dr, Lahug, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu

  • BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Waterfront Cebu”. Parking space is available.
  • BY COMMUTE: From SM City Cebu, ride a 04L jeepney and instruct the driver to drop you off at IT Park. Waterfront is just across the street

SAVOY HOTEL

Photo from Savoy Hotel Official Facebook Page

If you dreamt of celebrating your Christmas parties outdoors? Savoy Hotel provides theses perfect exclusive venues, featuring cozy natural settings, twinkling lights, and festive decorations. Make your holiday gatherings truly special!

Photo from Savoy Hotel Official Facebook Page

Catch up with friends in this special holiday while savoring the stunning views of the Mactan Newtown township. Or experience a party with nature’s touch at an open-air marquee overlooking Mactan Newtown Beach. Or just the usual exclusive indoor party featuring state-of-the-art audio-visual tools for a seamless and professional experience.

Photo from Savoy Hotel Official Facebook Page

Take your pick! Savoy Hotel has options you’d definitely want to experience.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

*Rates are subject to change according to venue and any supplementary fees.

Event Areas

  • Patio
  • Outdoor Tensile Tent
  • Function Hall 1
  • Function Hall 2

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: The Mactan Newtown, Newtown Blvd, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu

  • BY CAR: Navigate via Waze or Google map and pin the exact location above or “Savoy Hotel” as your destination.

These are the top choices we have so far. So, make your festivities shine with a place that combines ambiance, convenience, and a touch of magic this Christmas season, Sugboanons!

Moana 2 is Now Showing in Cinemas Nationwide!

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Moana is back!

Photo from Disney

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.

Photo from Disney

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.

Photo from Disney

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.”

Photo from Disney

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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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.

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

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.

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

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

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

Photo from Canva

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;

Photo from Canva

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.

Photo from Canva

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

Photo from Canva

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!

Photo from Canva

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

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

Photo from the National Museum of the Philippines Official Facebook Page

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.

Photo from the National Museum of the Philippines Official Facebook Page
Photo from the National Museum of the Philippines Official Facebook Page

VISIT THE EXHIBITION

Photo from the National Museum of the Philippines Official Facebook Page

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!

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

Photo from Canva

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

Photo from Canva

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

Photo from Canva

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

Photo from Canva

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

Photo from Canva

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

Photo from Canva

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

Photo from Canva

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.
Photo from Canva

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!