United Airlines (UA) has made aviation history by operating the first-ever Boeing 737 flight to land and depart from Cebu. On October 27, 2024, UA officially launched its partnership with Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), inaugurating direct, non-stop flights between Narita, Japan, and Cebu.
This milestone marks a significant development for Cebu, enhancing its global connectivity and boosting tourism and business opportunities. To celebrate the occasion, MCIA welcomed UA with a spectacular water cannon salute, signifying the arrival of new travel possibilities for the people of Cebu.
Photo from MCIA
Local officials, key stakeholders, and aviation experts gathered to witness the launch and express their enthusiasm for the new route. The direct flights will not only facilitate easier access to Japan but also encourage more international visitors to explore the beauty and culture of the Philippines, especially to our very own, Queen City of the South.
Photo from MCIAPhoto from MCIAPhoto from MCIAPhoto from MCIAPhoto from MCIA
With this new partnership, United Airlines aims to strengthen its presence in the Asia-Pacific region while offering passengers seamless travel experiences everyday; a proof that Cebu’s travel industry is growing.
Sugboanons, what do you think of this latest aviation partnership?
Sugboanons, are you ready to meet Ben, Mark, Paul, and Christian once again?
This Valentine’s Day, the beloved UK band A1 is set to light up the Queen City of the South with an evening filled with nostalgia and romance. Mark your calendars for February 14, 2025, Sugboanons, because the legends are back!
Photo from A1 Cebu
A1 burst onto the music scene in the late ’90s, quickly winning hearts with their catchy tunes and boyish charm. With hits like “Like A Rose,” “Everytime,” and “Take On Me,” they became the go-to in the playlists of many, alongside Backstreet Boys and NSYNC*.
Love is in the Air
What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a concert from A1? Whether you’re planning a romantic evening with a partner or a fun night out with friends, this concert is just what you need. So, here are the details for you to take note:
Venue: Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino
Date: February 14, 2024 at 8PM
Ticket Prices
VIP – Php 4,790.00
GOLD – Php 3,730.00
SILVER – Php 2,600.00
BRONZE (Free Seating) – Php 1,600.00
BALCONY – Php 850.00
Photo from A1 Cebu
So, Sugboanons, brush up your A1 hits now and get your tickets via SM Ticketing Outlets and Online!
Welp, looks like amidst the recent flops like “Morbius” and “Madame Web,” Sony is still determined to swing deeper into the Spider-Verse!
In the latest news, they’re pulling out all the stops with their latest addition: Spider-Man Noir! And who better to wear the mask of this not so new hero than the legendary Declaration of Independence and adventure-seeker Nicolas Cage?
A Cage-y Return to the Spotlight
Yes, you heard that right! The man who once stole the Declaration of Independence is now stepping into the shadows as the rugged, gun-toting Spider-Man Noir. If you thought Cage’s roles couldn’t get more intriguing, think again! Set photos are now around the internet, showing us a sneak peek at his dark, brooding take on the web-slinger, complete with a trench coat and an attitude that says, “Surprise attack!”
Who Is Spider-Man Noir?
Spider-Man Noir is not your average friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, he is a 1930s detective noir vibe mixed with superhero abilities. He exists in an alternate universe where crime runs rampant and the only thing darker than the night is the moral ambiguity of its heroes. Technically, he’s a hard-boiled detective fighting the forces of evil in a gritty, art-deco New York City.
An Expansion or Another Doomed-to-Fail Attempt?
Sony’s commitment to expanding the Spider-Verse means fans have even more reasons to get hyped, but many are still skeptical because of the recent films they have in relation to “Spider-Man” but not actually having an ACTUAL Spider-Man. So, it begs the question, could the Spider-Man Noir series be the dark horse that finally brings Sony a big win? Share your thoughts in the comments below, Sugboanons!
For a newbie in the industry, new words can be confusing…
An entry-level job is for people just starting in their careers. Usually, this means those who have zero years of work experience, such as fresh graduates. These jobs are a great way to learn the flow of the industry, gain skills, and grow professionally.
Understanding Job Levels
Here’s a quick guide to different job levels:
Entry Level: 0 years of experience. Ideal for new graduates or those new to the field.
Associate Level: 1 to 3 years of experience. This is where you start to build your skills.
Manager Level: 3 to 5 years of experience. You begin to take on more responsibility and lead projects.
Senior Manager Level: 5 to 7 years of experience. You’ll likely manage teams and make key decisions.
Director Level: 8 to 10 years of experience. This role involves strategic planning and overseeing departments.
Vice President (VP): More than 10 years of experience. VPs are responsible for major areas of the company and its direction.
Why Entry Level Matters
Entry-level jobs are important for anyone eager to start their career. They serve as a great foundation of experience and knowledge, allowing newbies to understand their industry better. These positions often come with training and mentorship, helping newcomers find their path and develop their skills.
It’s important to label job positions accurately, and for you to know what you’re applying for. And, speaking of ENTRY-LEVELS, we are looking for a Social Media Manager who can help us boost and manage our social media accounts! If you want to be part of Sugbo.ph, then send us your resume to our email address, [email protected] right away!
Stray dogs are becoming a nightmare for drivers. If someone accidentally hits and kills one, who does social media blame? Of course, the driver—because who could stay mad at the poor little creature that just lost its life?
This is a serious issue, especially for two-wheeler riders. Here’s a real example: A motorcycle driver recently got into an accident caused by stray dogs. It resulted in a fractured wrist, minor injuries, and fortunately, the damage to his vehicle was minimal. But it’s easy to imagine how things could have been much worse. Sadly, the dog didn’t survive.
IT’S NOT THE DRIVER’S FAULT
Photo from Pexels
Whenever news spreads about stray dogs killed on the road, social media floods with comments like, “Please, drive slowly,” or “They have families too.” But let’s face the facts—strays can cause accidents as well. No one considers the trauma the driver might go through after such incidents, especially when lives are on the line. It’s not just the driver’s fault; these dogs wander unpredictably on the streets, putting themselves and others at risk. If the media really cares about those street dogs so much, why not do something about it, like adopting them.
HERE’S A SOLUTION
Photo from Pexels
It’s time to shift the narrative. Instead of simply blaming drivers or romanticizing stray animals, a more balanced discussion is needed. The authorities seriously need to take some kind of initiative to keep them off the street and hopefully provide them safety and shelter instead of letting these animals and people suffer. An animal control system is very necessary. The city pound might seem harsh to you, but it’s often the only way to protect these animals. Don’t like the idea? Visit the pound and feel free to adopt—every rescued animal makes a difference.
Blaming drivers after accidents solves nothing and overlooks the root of the problem. To prevent future tragedies, both for people and animals, consider our thoughts we wrote above. Have any violent reactions, let us know in the comments.
Is the horror booth at Parkmall worth it this year?
It’s that spooky season again, Sugboanons! We couldn’t resist checking out “The Haunting” House of Horror at Parkmall, promising thrills and chills. Here’s what we thought:
The Thrill Is ON!
From the moment you step up to the entrance, a cast member knocks loudly on the walls, as if warning the ghouls inside of your arrival. Once you enter, the atmosphere changes dramatically. Eerie sounds fill the air, similar to that of the kid from “The Grudge.” You’ll hear loud thuds and a menacingly evil laughter echoing around you.
Our social media manager had her eyes shut the entire time—she was that scared! Haha! But, honestly, there are definitely moments that will make you scream, while others will leave you feeling your heart race with anticipation on what lurks beneath the dark areas and corners of the booth.
Overall, if you’re looking for a good scare, Parkmall delivers!
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Entrance Fee – Php 50.00/head
Photobooth – Php 50.00/head
OTHER INFORMATION
Ticket Booth is located at the G/F near Tiger Manju
No Refunds: Assess your comfort level before purchasing
Opening Dates: October 5 to November 3, 2024 (Monday to Sunday: 1pm – 9pm)
Recommended Age: 13 and above
Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin the exact location above or “Parkmall” as your destination.
By Commute: From SM City Cebu, ride a 01K jeepney at A. Soriano Ave., near the entrance across from the DIY building. The jeepney will lead you to its final stop; Parkmall.
Were they able to live up to the promise of a luxury stay?
Friday morning, we packed up and started our journey to have a weekend of team building where we booked a three-day, two-night stay at the Carmen Beach House & Villa. It was a place claiming to be Cebu’s “best-kept secret” as it offers topnotch private and exclusive accommodations; and so the question begs to be answered, is it really the best in the north?
We’re Heading North!
Tucked away in Luyang, Carmen, the place was surprisingly super easy to find! Just hop on a motorcycle from Carmen’s bus terminal and enjoy a 5 to 10-minute ride that brings you right to its doorstep. As you arrive, a metal entrance draped with dried native grasses greets you like a friendly wave, as if welcoming you to a well-deserved tropical getaway.
Once you step inside the premises, you’ll stroll along a beautifully paved path, filled by tall plants and stone decors; it’s like walking into a scene from Alice in Wonderland! And when you reach the heart of the villa, a sparkling pool awaits, surrounded by charming houses that look like they jumped straight out of Disney’s “Encanto” movie as each one has the look of the magical “Casita” from its tan colors to the tisa roofing.
The Beach House & The Villa
Okay, let’s clear the air—these two spots are like apples and oranges; they are different! If you’re planning a getaway with all 15 of your bestest friends, the Beach Villa is your best bet. The Beach House, on the other hand, is a cozier option that fits a max of 8 guests, perfect for a more intimate hangout with your family. And because the properties have tons of space in each room, they can accommodate up to 30 people, combined! Imagine that; you can have a full party at the place and still have enough for more!
The VillaThe Beach House
Now, let’s talk about its pools! The Villa has a long, lush green pool, while the Beach House features a deeper blue kidney-shaped pool—ideal for those cannonballs! And don’t forget about the rental prices; they differ, too!
The Villa PoolThe Beach House Kidney Pool
So, with those differences in mind, the Villa was a no-brainer for us since our plan was for a team-building space to spread out and bond. But, if you want to book both, then you can, too, because both properties are connected to each other with a 4-meter wide gated wall!
No Cooking Necessary; You’ll Have Your Own Private Chef!
You won’t be singing to Nicki Minaj’s lines in “Hey Mama,” as you won’t be doing the cooking and the cleaning during your stay as they have an entire team to do that for you! That’s right, luxury is the name of the place and that’s what they offer with a dedicated team at your service.
Of course, the team requires you to leave all your worries about grocery shopping or bringing outside food so that they can work seamlessly. They will be the one who will make the daily meal plans and menu based on your budgets. All you have to do is kick back and relax while a private chef whips up meals inspired from local and Mediterranean cuisines; think seafood paella and warm sinigang paired with crispy lumpia!
Look at that pizza!
The Verdict
Our team had a fantastic time, and we’re giving this place a strong #SugboApproves, and here’s why:
First off, the accommodations were amazing—5 out of 5 for sure! Every corner felt cozy, and the beds? UGH, pure bliss when I laid on it! I finally had a good night’s sleep for the first time in a month, especially with the fluffy comforters and the wonderful views outside the windows.
The pool was impressively clean and spacious enough for all 15 of us to enjoy without a hitch, and the gazebo gave us a lovely spot to relax while watching the waves splash the rocks ashore. Also, if you’re looking for hot water to shower on, they have that, too!
And as for the food, when it comes to it, our expectations were met as the private chef cooked up some tasty meals for all of us! From our breakfast, lunch, and to our dinners, they served us freshly cooked seafood, warm soups, and Filipino-Mediterranean viands that we enjoyed with cold beverages!
We were also guaranteed that power interruptions won’t be a problem at all, since the property is powered by large power generation units to back us up. And as for the internet, they have the reliable Starlink internet and also the latest Google Mesh—perfect for busy buddies like us who still had to do meetings and update social media platforms to stay on top of our duties.
Overall, it was a delightful experience, and we’d definitely recommend it for a fun getaway, whether with your friends, family, relatives, or with a company team.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
BEACH VILLA.(Long green pool) – Php 35,000.00 per night, good for 15 pax
Extra guests in Beach Villa (5 max) – Php 1,500.00 per person per night.
BEACH HOUSE (Blue kidney pool) – Php 28,000.00 per night, good for 8 pax.
Extra guests in Beach House max 4 on a single mattress on floors – Php 1,500.00 per person.
NATIVE HOUSE – Php 8,000.00 per night for additional guests. No direct pool or beach access.
BOOKING INFORMATION
Check in time – 2pm
Check out time – 12 noon.
Minimum of 2 nights is required if booking includes a Friday, Saturday or a public holiday.
Single nights at weekends may be booked, subject to availability, within 5 days prior to the reservation date.
Rates include access to the property’s reliable Starlink internet connection.
Single rooms may be rented subject to availability for Php 7,500.00 per night.
Rates include a private chef and full team to help plan, shop and prepare all meals.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Carmen Beach House and Villa in Luyang, Carmen.”
By Commute: From the North Bus Terminal, take the bus bound to Carmen. Fare starts at Php 75.00 and above, depending on the type of bus, whether it’s the aircon or non-aircon option. Once you arrive at the Carmen Bus Stop, take a motorcycle or habal-habal going to the beach house. Fare starts at Php 20.00. Overall travel time will range between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic.
The Tagbo Festival, also known as the Panagbagat Festival, is a vibrant cultural and religious celebration held in honor of Sto. Niño de Poro in Poro, Cebu, Philippines. This festival commemorates the legendary origins of the town, which was founded through the unification of previously feuding tribes. With the arrival of Spanish colonization and Christianization, the local community embraced a deep devotion to the Holy Child.
Photo from Cebu Provincial Tourism Office
Running from October 20 to 31, the festival features a variety of activities, including sports, street dancing competitions, showdowns, and announcing the next festival king and queen.
WHAT’S IT DOING NOW?
Photo from Panagbagat Festival Sa Poro
Today, October 25, in celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Municipality of Poro, in collaboration with the Rural Health Unit and the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation, is hosting a tote bag painting contest titled “Beautiful Totes of the Mind.” The artworks created will be sold, with proceeds directed toward purchasing mental health medications.
Engaging in creative activities is beneficial for our mental health and well-being, fostering positive emotions, reducing depressive symptoms, alleviating stress, decreasing anxiety, and even enhancing immune system function.
This evening, we will also feature “Religious Nite,” they will honor Birhen sa Rosario.
Photo from Panagbagat Festival Sa Poro
WHAT’S NEXT?
Photo from Cebu Provincial Tourism Office
Get ready for an exciting lineup of activities leading up to October 31! On that day, a surprise live band will perform at the Poro Municipal Gym. Tomorrow, don’t miss the street dancing festival, which will take place from Western Poblacion to Poro Central School. Later in the evening, join them for a grand ritual showdown, followed by the pageant to crown the next Panagbagat Festival King and Queen.
Photo from Panagbagat Festival Sa PoroPhoto from Panagbagat Festival Sa PoroPhoto from Panagbagat Festival Sa PoroPhoto from Panagbagat Festival Sa PoroPhoto from Panagbagat Festival Sa PoroPhoto from Panagbagat Festival Sa Poro
HISTORY OF TAGBO FESTIVAL
The Tagbo Festival derives its name from the word “tagbo,” meaning rendezvous or meeting, which reflects the town’s origins according to oral tradition. Historically, the island was divided into two factions: the farmers of Tag-Anito and the fishermen of Maktang, who had long been at odds.
Their conflicts were exacerbated by the threat of Moro raiders, who frequently attacked their settlements, burning homes and capturing residents. Faced with this common enemy, the two groups were compelled to put aside their differences. A man named Panganuron took the initiative to bring them together, facilitating a meeting that resolved their longstanding enmity and united them in the fight against their shared threat.
Originally, the island was called Pulo, meaning “island,” and later referred to as Poro upon the arrival of the Spaniards. It was during this time that devotion to Sto. Niño began to flourish.
The Tagbo Festival was established in 1976 to honor Sto. Niño, whose image is enshrined in the 19th-century Sto. Niño Parish Church.
When you believe in yourself, anything is possible. Just do what you do best, conduct a superstition. Silly or not, we wish you the best of luck on your exams!
Photo from Canva
You’re at a point in life where you no longer rely on your mommy and daddy’s wallets and credit cards. That’s why you need to pass the board exams because it’s time for you to grow up. Now, let’s keep it real: what’s the worst that could happen if you fail? You can still keep your jobs, you’re still standing on your own two feet. But passing the board exams is BIG. Like REAL BIG! It opens doors to bigger opportunities—and, yes, better pay. That’s why you desperately need to pass!
We know, we’re laying it on too thick and making you a bit anxious. We just want to see if brutal motivation would get you moving. Did it work?
If not, here’s a softer nudge: Try, try, try until you succeed. If you’re already at 3 tries, maybe it’s time to add a strategy aside from studying. Do you ever believe in superstitions? Many Filipinos did several superstitious methods they made up in order to pass the exams, and guess what? It worked… somehow. If you like to give it a try, here we list below some exam superstitions board exam passers shared for future examinees. These would help you pass… possibly;
THE RED UNDERWEAR
Photo from Canva
In Filipino culture, red is often associated with luck and good fortune, which is why many examinees choose to wear new red underwear on exam day. The belief is that red attracts positive energy and wards off negative influences.
But does it really have to be an underwear? It’s the color red that brings good luck, that’s the belief. To fully embrace the ritual, go all out! Wear everything red; Shirt, pants, shoes, socks, hats, eyeglasses, contact lenses, hair, watches, lipstick, earrings, rings, and the boldest of all, paint your whole body red.
THE BUBBLEGUM METHOD
Photo from Canva
This one is relatively new, and only a few people have heard of this. Chewing gum while studying and then chewing the same flavor while taking a test will help you remember what you studied. Not sure this is considered a superstition or a scientific fact, but studies show it works similarly to listening to music—both can enhance concentration and jog your memory. Just make sure to be consistent, using the same flavor or same song during both study sessions and exams for the best effect.
THE KICK-IT EFFECT
Photo from Canva
Kicking the chair in front of you before leaving the exam room is seen as a sign of completion and a wish for success. This gesture is believed to symbolize the completion of the exam and moving forward, hoping for a positive outcome. Don’t overdo it, a simple nudge will do. Whoever is sitting in the front row, we suggest you find a different examination ritual.
Once you leave the room, never look back. There’s literally no turning back, just look forward. What you must only look forward to is your results.
TEXTBOOK RITUAL
Photo from Canva
Can’t remember what you’re reading? Try this! Open your textbook and lay it over your head—let the knowledge flow down and soak right into your brain. Give it a moment to absorb and let the magic happen.
Still not working? No problem. Scoop a handful of air from between the pages and gently rub it over your head—just to make sure the essence sticks.
And if all else fails, here’s the last but not the least foolproof method; the best way to get a taste of knowledge is to consume it. Rip out the most important page and eat it (yes, really!). Put the knowledge inside of you—literally.
ONE SNAP, AND THAT’S A WRAP!
Photo from Canva
Breaking the pencil used during an exam is believed to prevent the need for a retake. This superstition suggests that snapping the pencil symbolizes the exam’s completion and wards off future tests. No more chances, and that’s a good thing because you already passed.
Unfortunately, if the exam requires you to use a ballpen, you need strong, muscular hands to break that piece of iron rod into half. You have no choice. Either you break it, or break down.
THE OBVIOUS CHOICE
Anxious about your board exam? Here’s an obvious idea; STUDY! If studying isn’t enough, study it hard! Like really, really HARD! That’s it.
Remember, while these rituals can offer comfort and reassurance, they are no substitute for thorough preparation and hard work. Your success ultimately rests on your knowledge, abilities, and determination.
Cebu City is continuing its traffic light modernization project, even though there are payment issues and legal concerns with the first two phases. The city government has set aside a P240 million budget for the third phase in the proposed 2025 budget.
Photo from Pexels
THE PROJECT STATUS SO FAR
Phase 1:
Covered 18 intersections
Cost: P232 million
90% of the cost has already been paid.
Phase 2:
Covers 27 intersections
Cost: P248 million
15% payment made so far, but the phase is not finished yet.
Phase 3:
Will cover 40 intersections with modern digital traffic lights.
Also includes AI-powered cameras to manage traffic better and underground cables for durability
Approval is still pending from the city’s Traffic Management Coordination Committee (TMCC).
There will be four phases in total, and Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia plans to complete them.
While Cebu City is pushing forward with modernizing its traffic lights, they are still dealing with unfinished payments, legal issues, and technical problems. The city wants to ensure that the system meets its needs before paying the suppliers in full.
WHY IS SO EXPENSIVE?
Photo from Pexels
Why invest a large sum of money like P240 million for traffic lights? Are traffic lights really that surprisingly expensive?
When you take in account all that is hidden behind them, including:
The controller
The wiring or radio communication to the central
The traffic central control equipment
The people maintaining them
The people counting cars to adjust the cycles
The officers used to backup when they fail
The equipment to allow safe crossing of emergency vehicles
The design and optimization of the network cycles
The traffic lights themselves and their sensors (which most people do not see)
Putting up traffic lights is more complicated than just attaching signal lights to poles. It involves several important steps to ensure everything works smoothly and safely. Like planning and preparation. Engineers need to carefully plan the placements of the lights based on traffic patterns.
Photo from Pexels
A typical traffic light installation can cost anywhere from P10 to P25 million per intersection, depending on complexity. Cost is usually relative, considering what is involved in components and installation, they are not actually surprisingly expensive at all—maybe for the transportation committee. They’re expensive because it requires careful planning, underground wiring, expert labor, and compliance with safety standards.
