Aimed to raise awareness for a zombie apocalyptic future, the Zombie Awareness Month was established by the Zombie Research Society and is commemorated every month of May since 2007. The symbol for the event is a gray ribbon to signify the solidarity and preparedness of the community, as well as to celebrate the booming industry of zombie-related entertainment.
Photo from Canva
Ways to Celebrate Zombie Month with the Fam
Photo from Canva
There are many ways to celebrate the month of the undead with your family, and here are some of them:
Watch Z-O-M-B-I-E-S
Photo from Disney Plus Website
A musical about a zombie and a preppy human cheerleader falling in love? Disney got your back! They have a Z-O-M-B-I-E-S franchise which is a mix of fun colorful choreography and heartfelt messages about inclusivity. Also, the characters are not limited to zombies and humans because there are also werewolves, aliens, and the upcoming Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4 which will have vampires, too!
Join A Zombie Fun Run
Photo from The Zombie Fun Run Facebook Page
Why run on a normal 5k marathon when you can be chased by zombies? If that’s your bet, stay on the lookout for zombie fun run events where folks dressed as zombies will be running after you, prompting you to run faster. Most zombie fun runs even have additional competitions such as a costume contest where you’ll get more zombie freebies!
Eat Brains!
Photo from Sugbo.ph
No we don’t mean human brains, we meant the famous “Tuslob-Buwa!” Nowadays, you can avail unlimited tuslob-buwa at affordable prices ranging from Php 99.00 per head to Php 300.00! Also, you can even buy a tuslob-buwa package and have your own brain dinner at home with your family and friends.
Craft A Zombie
Photo from Canva
DIY projects are the hit this summer! So, get those crafting papers and glues out, and craft your own zombie apocalypse! You can make zombie masks, brains, and zombie medical syringes. And if you have a birthday party coming up, you can have a zombie-themed birthday bash where you can hire face painters to zombify the party-goers.
Bake Zombie Goods
Photo from My Sweet Fancy Cake Facebook Page
Zombie cookies, cakes, and brownies paired with cucumber juice will make a perfect merienda for your kids! You can also get creative by making zombie versions of normal foods or by simply buying edible green goods such as green wafers, bubblegum, and candy!
Kill Some Zombies!
Photo from Sugbo.ph
If you’re up for an adrenaline rush with your kids, head to SM Seaside and enjoy a game of virtual reality where you’re stuck in jail with zombies rushing around. You can play in twos or threes and bust some undead heads as a team!
So, Sugboanons, get zombified and celebrate Zombie Awareness Month this May with us by sharing your zombie photos to our social media accounts!
Get ready for an exploration in the world of carnivorous plants!
Photo from Canva
Carnivorous plants are often seen as nature’s intriguing predators. They have captivated the attention of nature enthusiasts and curious minds for centuries as experiments and studies about them remain active until today. These remarkable organisms have evolved throughout the years of existence. Now, let’s delve deeper to their fascinating nature and explore more about their world.
What is a Carnivorous Plant?
Photo from Canva
Carnivorous plants capture insects for supplementary nutrients. Carnivory in plants has evolved independently. They vaguely attract insects, setting it as a trap for their digestion. Small carnivorous plants may eat insects, but the bigger ones can eat small mammals. Their indigestion depends on their sizes.
Mechanisms of Capture
There are different methods that carnivorous plants do to capture their prey.
Pitfall Traps
Photo from Canva
This is used by pitcher-like carnivorous plants. They have modified leaves that are forming a pitfall trap filled with digestive enzymes.
Flypaper Traps
Photo from Canva
This specific trap is used by plants with glandular structures on their leaves which exude a sticky substance causing prey to get stuck. While this happens, their digestive enzymes will proceed breaking down the capture for absorption.
Snap Traps
Photo from Canva
Carnivorous plants that possess leaves that snap shut rapidly when triggered by prey. Once closed, its enzymes will break the capture down for digestion.
Bladder Traps
Photo from Canva
This kind of trap is used by carnivorous plants with tiny bladder-like structures that create a vacuum when it can sense prey, sucking them in for absorption.
Ecological Significance of Carnivorous Plants
While they are often seen as harmful plants for their unique adaptations and nature, they play a crucial role in the ecosystem. They contribute to the regulation of insect populations. Therefore, they influence the structure and dynamics of their habitat. Additionally, some carnivorous plants provide microhabitats for other organisms, further enhancing biodiversity.
Photo from Canva
As they continue to inspire nature enthusiasts and curious scientists from their intricate trapping mechanisms and contribution to the ecosystem, this serves as a reminder of nature’s endless capacity for innovation and adaptation. We must strive to comprehend these types of plants as we gain valuable insights into the complexity and beauty of the natural world, as well as be knowledgeable about their purpose.
Sugboanons, get ready as the world-renowned mouth-watering steakhouse and superstore are opening new branches in Cebu!
Photo from Wolfgang Steakhouse PH Official Facebook Page
Wolfgang Steakhouse and Landers Superstore will be landing in Mactan Newtown soon, bringing more options to the growing supercity of Cebu Island.
Landers Superstore Adds A Mactan Branch
Photo from Landers PH Official Website
Landers Superstore stands as one of the premier grocery destinations in the Philippines, with a network of over ten branches across the country. Known for its commitment to quality and excellence, the brand prides itself on offering fresh goods and exceptional services to its members. Whether it’s premium produce, gourmet delicacies, or household essentials, Landers Superstore aims to meet the diverse needs of Sugboanons while providing a seamless shopping experience.
Mactan Newtown Welcomes Wolfgang
With just five branches throughout the country; Newport World Resorts, The Podium, Ortigas, Bonifacio Global City, City Of Dreams, Araneta City, Boracay New Coast, each location offers patrons a chance to enjoy its steakhouse exquisite experience. And now, the culinary empire heads to another premiere site, the Mactan Newtown.
With their doors set to open soon, us Sugboanons can expect nothing short of scrumptious flavors and impeccable service from the newest addition to Cebu’s dining scene. While famed for their dry-aged to perfection steaks, Wolfgang Steakhouse is set to elevate their traditions, drawing inspiration from the stunning seascape of Mactan paired with international cuisines.
Photo from Wolfgang Steakhouse PH Official Facebook Page
The Wolfgang Steakhouse Five-star Menu
As we anticipate the launching of the Wolfgang Steakhouse Mactan branch, let’s dive into their five-star worthy menu options for us to get a gist of what they can offer:
PORTERHOUSE – ₱ 9,376.00
Photo from Wolfgang Steakhouse Official Website
NEW YORK-STYLE CHEESECAKE – ₱ 398.00
MASHED POTATOES – ₱ 398.00
Photo from Wolfgang Steakhouse Official Website
GRILLED SALMON – ₱ 1,488.00
Photo from Wolfgang Steakhouse Official Website
CAESAR SALAD – ₱ 698.00
Photo from Wolfgang Steakhouse Official Website
SIZZLING CANADIAN BACON – ₱ 298.00
Photo from Wolfgang Steakhouse Official Website
So, Sugboanons, prepare for a culinary and shopping adventure as Mactan Newtown unveils their newest partners for lifestyle and dining soon! See you there!
Anyone, including our lovers, have the ability to lie. How do we spot when someone’s lying?
Photo from Canva
On a daily basis, everyone has the capability to lie. Is it possible for us to spot liars? The answer is, yes! There are various studies that concluded we can spot when someone is lying.
Photo from Canva
Detecting when someone is lying can help us navigate relationships, negotiations, and various social situations more effectively. However, spotting liars can be challenging. It takes a lot of time to master the skill of detecting liars as there are skilled deceivers that can be adept at masking their falsehoods.
Here is a comprehensive guide on how to spot a liar.
Pay attention to nonverbal cues.
Photo from Canva
Nonverbal communication often reveals more than words alone. Spot for signs of nervousness such as fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, too much gulping, changes in pitch and tone. When someone is lying, they may display a forceful calm expression or smile, and other micro-expression of discomfort and fear.
Look out for avoidance tactics.
Photo from Canva
Liars often attempt to steer the conversation away from the topic on hand or use vague language to evade straightforward questions. They may also become defensive when pressed for details. They may not talk a lot about it to avoid it, but they may also talk too much as they try to defend themselves.
Inconsistency in speech.
Photo from Canva
This is one of the most obvious signs of deception is inconsistency in the liar’s narrative. Observe the details and timelines, and be wary of the story they are telling. Made-up stories often end up with contradicting statements.
Listen to your gut reaction.
Photo from Canva
If you feel discomfort, or feel that something’s off and doesn’t sit right, it is worthy to explore further and listen to what your guts are trying to tell you. However, it is still important to be cautious and not to rely solely on your intuition as it can sometimes be influenced by prejudices.
Baseline Behaviour
Photo from Canva
Understanding someone’s behavior will make it easier to spot deviations and change which can indicate deception. Look for changes in their demeanor, speech patterns, and even body language that seem off and out of character.
Let us not forget that in reality, there is no universally recognized indicator that someone is lying. All of the indications, behaviors, and indicators that experts have related to lying are merely cues that may disclose whether or not a person is telling the truth. Remember that no single indicator is foolproof, but fusing multiple strategies can increase the chances of accurate identification of lies.
Get to know the empowered woman behind the business legacy of Titay’s!
She’s an actress, producer, coach, gamer, and Chief Operating Officer of Titay’s. But, when stripped off of her titles, we wonder: Who is Margo?
We asked the powerhouse of a woman herself and with a humble smile, she said, “I’m just a regular human being just trying to get by every single day and live her life the best way she can.”
Who Is Margo?
Margarita Domingo Frasco a.k.a Margo is a proud Liloanon and legacy-holder of Titay’s Rosquillos. Outside the bustling rosquillos kitchen walls, she is also a dynamic mastermind as she spearheads stage plays and even stars in productions herself.
During our interview, Margo reflected on the concept of role models, expressing humility and gratitude towards her family and friends.” They’ve molded me and inspired me in so many ways. Again, I am just trying to get by in life just like everybody else, but I hope that the people that I admire will eventually be proud of me.”
I basically look up to my family; they are 80% of the reason who I am today.
Margo Frasco
In a heartfelt reflection, Margo shared her thoughts on success, stating its subjective nature and her ongoing quest for personal growth. We asked who she wished could have seen her recent success and she deeply revealed her longing for her late father, “I know my father is looking down at me, hopefully guiding me every single day, I wish he was still here to see my achievements. I wish he was here to guide me in my falters, in my mistakes, to hug me.”
“I think he was taken too soon from me. He’s basically the person whom I wish is still here with me and to say “Well done, you’ve done your best”.”, she shared the profound impact of his late father’s absence on her journey with emotional honesty.
On Answering The Curtain Call
Easy Money: A Murder Mystery Dinner Cebu Official Facebook Page
Starred in both local and international stage productions, Margo has extensive experiences when it comes to the theater scene.
Easy Money: A Murder Mystery Dinner Cebu Official Facebook Page
“It’s a moment in my life I get to become who I am not,” said Margo when we asked her about her passion. “I will never become a doctor, police officer, teacher, astronaut, president, and so many other things. But taking that role, I get to become that character for a moment. I get to study how they are and how they think; then I go back to reality.”
You’d get to be someone you’re not for a moment, something to divert from what is the now.
Margo Frasco
Photo from Margarita Frasco
Margo’s thespian days started in elementary and in a hilarious throwback moment, she spilled the beans about her unforgettable piano school recital in Sto. Niño. “Everyone was like, “What? That’s not right!” and then I stood up and took a bow. I wish I did practice coz that’s a bad memory! But I got through it; I think that’s some way to look at it. And I performed! I acted like I knew and I didn’t know what I was doing,” recalled Margo.
For the hundreds of roles she had played, Margo shared that her favorites were her roles as the Wicked Witch of the West and the Hyena from a Lion King production, “How do you study an animal? How do you study a witch? It’s all in the imagination,” she answered and added, “As the hyena, the challenge was more on the hair-teasing part; they had to make my hair poofy. Then as the Wicked Witch, I’m always conscious about my behind so I had to rehearse that over and over again. How am I supposed to melt and not really show my behind?”
I’m always the tough one, but I am a Disney princess!
Margo Frasco
On talking about being typecasted, Margo shared that her usual roles were being the rough-cookie, “I’m always, always typecasted. I’m always the tough one, but I am a Disney princess!” I think it’s just how I look and maybe sometimes how I carry myself. But, I’m always the tough one; always the military one! When do I get to become like the girl that gets asked out? I’m always the one asking out! But it’s okay.”
Photo from Siddhartha The Musical
The Life of A COO
Photo from Titay’s Official Facebook Page
Started off as a simple small business, Titay’s has since boomed into one of the biggest in Cebu and the Philippine’s food industry because of its nostalgic and unique products. We asked Margo about the secret ingredient of the family-owned business’s success and she smiled, “Love, dedication, continuation.”
Yes, of course, there’s a secret recipe but something that really goes this far our dedication to get this far.
Margo Frasco
On inheriting the business, Margo responded with glee as she shared how her family and grandparents never forced the idea and position to any of them, “We’re very fortunate that my parents and grandparents never forced us and always gave us the liberty to do what we want to. And I think that’s the reason why we do what we do now.”
Photo from Titay’s Official Facebook Page
Four generations have managed the rosquillos empire and recently, Margo shared that their fifth generation is also participating in the business venture, “We want to make it last for another 117 years. Our responsibility now is to make it easier for the next generations and make it a livelihood for the people.”
With new businesses in the scene, Margo shared a tip for small business owners: gratefulness and giving 100% each day. She also gave us a glimpse on what to expect for the upcoming 2024 Rosquillos Festival which she states that they will put on a great show to entertain everyone during the celebration. “I want people to remember the true meaning of the festival: San Fernando El Rey. It should be beyond just the events but also the commemoration of our patron saint in Liloan,” Margo added.
Balancing Between Work & Play
Photo from Siddhartha Training Program
Prioritization is Margo’s superpower when it comes to balancing her career as a COO and thespian with her personal life. She also expressed the importance of life and to take time for everything saying, “Lumalabay rajud ang tanan. We just get so wrapped up with things that sometimes we forget to just relax for a moment and be grateful. We always pray and ask God, “Lord, please I need this. Help me with this!”, yet sometimes we forget that we’re asking too much; we forget that He’s given us so much without even asking for it.”
Even though there’s a lot of things that we need, we forget what we have.
Margo Frasco
Humbly, Margo would not call herself a “successful person” as she sees that there are still a lot of things she needs to improve. Nonetheless, she gave advice to aspiring business owners, actors, and those who aim to follow in her footsteps: “Do what your heart desires. Just keep trying and trying. Even the people we look up to have also endured hardships, and I don’t believe life is a contest or a competition. Life is about the journey and not the destination.”
You have to hit rock bottom before you go up, and there’s no other way but up!
Margo Frasco
To close the interview, we asked Margo a set of questions gathered from her theater students about her favorite things, and here’s how it went:
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Know any inspiring Cebuanos? Send their stories to us now for the world to know.
Are you itching to start a small business, but confused where to begin? This is an initial guide for you!
Photo from Canva
In the field of entrepreneurship, taking small steps is always essential. With the right mixture of passion, dedication, market research, creativity, and industriousness, the possibilities for launching a successful small business are endless. Whether you only want extra income or are honing your entrepreneurial skills, these small business ideas are perfect for you!
Here are 5 innovative small business ideas to inspire your next big move.
1. Ukay Business
Photo from Canva
Starting an ukay business or secondhand clothes can be an awesome way to start for several reasons.
Low Initial Investment: By sourcing pre-loved clothing items, your inventory costs can be lower compared to buying brand-new clothing items. This allows you to have a minimal capital investment.
Appealing to Budget-Meal Enjoyers: There are a lot of budget conscious people who love to thrift and dress fashionably.
Impactful on Sustainability and Environment: Running this business can actually help our environment since you are giving a new life to clothing items that would have ended up in landfills.
An Opportunity to Express and Expound Creativity: You can take this business to the next level by customizing second-hand clothes and adding art to it.
2. Milk Tea Business
Photo from Canva
Here are various compelling reasons why this is a good business idea.
Low Overhead Costs: Milk Tea ingredients are affordable, and the equipment needed to prepare this is simple and inexpensive.
Profit Margins: Regardless of its low overhead costs, this business can yield a good profit margin since its mark up is generally high, especially considering the lost cost of ingredients. By competitively pricing your product and managing your business efficiently, you generate a solid foundation of profits while maintaining affordability to your target consumers.
High in Demand: This type of drink has been high in demand for years. Its unique taste and appealing visual representation really draw the attention of your possible target market.
3. Food Truck
Photo from Canva
Starting a food truck business can be a great start if you are an aspiring entrepreneur.
Flexibility and Mobility: A food truck has the ability to move from one place to another without so much hustle.
Adaptable to Trends: This type of business is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging food trends and consumer preferences. You can quickly adjust your menu to popular food craze. This will also allow you to stay relevant to trends and appeal to changing tastes.
Wide Variety of Target Market: Upon having this business, you have an advantage of targeting multiple demographics and geographic areas.
4. Homemade Baking Business
Photo from Canva
Establishing this type or small business has various reasonable reasons why this is a good business idea.
Growth Potential and Scalability: You may be starting small, but this business has the potential for growth and scalability over time. As customers continuously demand, it can possibly expand your customer base and product line.
Low Startup Costs: This typically requires minimal startup costs since you can start this in your own kitchen, avoiding expenses like leasing commercial space or purchasing pricey equipment.
High Demand: There is a consistent demand for freshly baked goods, ranging from everyday treats to special occasions desserts. People of all ages enjoy indulging in homemade baked goods.
5. Sari-Sari Store
Photo from Canva
There are several convincing reasons why this is a smart business concept.
Local Demand and Accessibility: Sari-sari stores can cater the everyday needs of local communities. This provides them convenience and accessibility to sources of essential goods and household items. This type of store fulfills the immediate needs of the residents within walking distance.
Additional Revenue: Running this business can provide supplemental income to complement a bigger source of livelihood.
Cultural Significance: Sari-sari stores have always been a vital part of our Filipino culture. This reflects the spirit of bayanihan.
By embracing innovation, creativity, passion, and adaptability, small business owners can navigate challenges and capitalize on emerging trends to carve out in competitive markets. Each of these idea has the potential to grow and make a significant impact in our economy.
Shanghai’s Peppa Pig themed park and Singapore’s newest Sensoryscape are soon-to-open!
Photo from Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida Facebook Page
Photo from Sentosa Sensoryscape Website
Planning to travel to China and Singapore? Then you’re in luck as both countries have new attractions that they’ll soon launch for locals and tourists alike.
Sentosa Sensoryscape
Photo from Sentosa Sensoryscape Website
Photo from Sentosa Sensoryscape Website
Photo from Sentosa Sensoryscape Website
Photo from Sentosa Sensoryscape Website
Want to go on an extraordinary journey beyond your senses in Singapore? Look no further than Sentosa Sensoryscape, the latest sensation in town! This upcoming attraction promises an immersive experience like no other, and the best part? It’s absolutely free for all!
Explore its vast 30,000 square meters of wonder, where you’ll encounter captivating nature-inspired interactive art at every turn. You can dive into the mesmerizing underwater scenes brought by the Symphony Streams, engage with dynamic projections at Palate Playground, and be amazed by the vibrant light displays of the Lookout Loop. To enhance your adventure even further, don’t forget to download the ImagiNite app for an extra layer of augmented reality interactions.
OTHER INFORMATION
Opening Hours: 24 Hours Daily
ImagiNite Hours: 7:50 PM – 9:40 PM, Daily
Accessibility: Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible.
Photo from Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida Facebook Page
Photo from Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida Facebook Page
Photo from Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida Facebook Page
Photo from Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida Facebook Page
Northern Shanghai’s Chongming district is set to open the world’s largest and Asia’s very first Peppa Pig theme park this 2027! The project’s investment is beyond $331.16 million. Its goal is to become a global tourism destination and improve China’s economy. Hasbro and Max-Matching Entertainments Co. Ltd held a ceremony in Shanghai last Wednesday to commemorate the beginning of the project.
Why Peppa? Well, it’s because the British preschool cartoon series has become popular around the world because of its beloved characters, making it great for a kid-friendly themed park.
So, Sugboanon travelers, make sure to include these two in your next bucket list!
LANY fandom, are you ready for the 3-Day LANY Concert in Cebu?
Photo from LANY Facebook Page
If not, then we’ve got you covered!The alternative rock pop band LANY is adding another day to their A Beautiful Blur: World Tour in Cebu. They will now have a three-day concert to be held at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino from October 13 to 15, 2024!
A Beautiful Blur is the band’s fifth studio album, featuring tracks such as “Out of My League,” “Sugar & Cinnamon,” and “It Even Rains In LA.”
Photo from LANY Facebook Page
There are still months ahead before LANY comes to Cebu, so to prepare, here are some things to add to your checklist:
Ticket & Ticket-Holder
Photo from Live Nation Philippines Facebook Page
Of course, your concert tickets are at the top of our list! Make sure to only buy tickets from the official event partners of SMTickets and Live Nation PH or directly from SMTickets.com. Once you get your tickets, keep them safe by placing them inside a reliable ticket holder.
TICKET RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Photo from Live Nation Philippines Facebook Page
Photo from Live Nation Philippines Facebook Page
RATES
Balcony (Free seating) – Php 3,500.00
Floor Left/Right (Standing)– Php 5,750.00
Floor Front (Standing) – Php 7,250.00
Early Entry Fan Package (Standing)– Php 11,100.00
Inclusions: One Php7,250.00 standing ticket, early entry to the venue (2nd tier, if GA), exclusive LANY “Early Entry” VIP laminate & lanyard, exclusive LANY sticker pack, exclusive LANY poster, and early access to the merch counter.
Star Club VIP Package (Standing)– Php 22,700.00
Inclusions: One Php 7,250.00 standing ticket, group photograph in front of the stage with LANY by a professional photographer (group of 10), access to an Intimate Stripped Performance by LANY, exclusive Q&A session with Jake & Paul, early entry to the venue (1st tier, if GA), exclusive LANY “Star Club” VIP laminate & lanyard, exclusive LANY sticker pack, exclusive LANY poster, and early access to the merch counter.
Exact Location: Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino, Salinas Dr, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines
By Commute: From Colon St., take the 17B jeepney route and tell the driver you’ll drop off at the Waterfront.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Waterfront Cebu” as your destination.
Concert Bag
Photo from Levi’s Website
Concert managements are strict with their policies, especially when bringing in bags! One way to ensure that all your valuables will be kept in one place is to bring a see-through mini bag. Remember that backpacks and large sling bags are not allowed inside the venue.
Phone & Powerbank
Photo from Canva
Cameras are also prohibited in concert venues unless you’re part of the media. So, make sure to bring along a phone with excellent camera features. You also have to fully charge your power bank to avoid battery issues before, during, and after the concert!
Strepsils & Candy
Photo from Canva
Regardless of who the artist will be performing in a concert, there will be parts where you’ll most likely yell or sing along to your favorite tunes. So, packing a throat lozenge can help you ensure that your vocals will be well-coated the entire time! If you think lozenges are too pricey, opt for mint candy, or any candy will do.
OOTD
Photo from Canva
You deserve to show up at the concert in your best LANY fit, so iron that LANY shirt and remember to wear comfortable shoes, especially since it is a “standing” venue, except for the balcony ticket holders.
Extra Money
Photo from Canva
Most concert grounds will not allow you to bring your water jugs and tumblers to ensure that no one will bring prohibited alcoholic beverages inside. But don’t fret—they do sell sealed mineral water outside the venue that you can bring in. Therefore, you should have enough cash and coins, along with a strong data connection, if you prefer to pay via e-transfers.
So, there you have it, LANY fanatics! If you think there’s more that we must include in our concert checklist, comment below. See you there!
Have you opened a cookie tin, but it turns out it was a sewing kit? Or how about an ice cream box when it was a container filled with fried fish?
Screengrab from Jo Koy’s Official Facebook Page
Jo Koy, a world-renowned Filipino comedian, previously shared a hilarious story about a cookie tin made as a makeshift sewing kit by his mom. Netizens laughed with the comedian and shared their experiences about their parents doing the same thing. But, the collective decision of parents throughout several generations, before social media, begs the question: WHY? Well, as it turns out, reusing tins goes way back to the time of war, when everyone was encouraged to recycle every bit of an item due to scarcity.
So, let’s dive into the different ways our Filipino mothers and fathers reuse containers and tins:
Danish Cookie Tins = Sewing Kits
Cookie Tin Photo from www.royal-dansk.com | Photo composed via Canva
With their round edges and durable material, Danish cookie tins became a staple to every home—not because they hold tasty cookies, but because they are home to sharp needles and pins. They’re the perfect DIY sewing kit container because they’re waterproof! Once you seal them tight, you’ll be sure your needles remain sharp and intact!
MY San Biscuit Box = Rice Container
Happy Time Biscuit Photo from snrshopping.com | Photo composed via Canva
Like the cookie tin, the MY San biscuit box is highly reliable for keeping what’s inside dry, such as the Filipino favorite: rice! Aside from being a rice container, it’s also used as a chair!
Ice Cream Box = Fried Fish Container
Ice cream Photo from Selecta | Photo composed via Canva
Don’t be fooled by the delicious photo of ice cream on its cover—what’s inside will surprise you. Ice cream boxes are often filled with anything fried and then stuffed inside the refrigerator to preserve it for tomorrow’s dinner. So, before you get your spoon, check the box first!
Bottles = Oil Refill Container
C2 Photo from Shoppers Mart | Tanduay Photo from RumX | Photo composed via Canva
C2 and Tanduay bottles are the standard bottles used for refilling cooking oils. You can find them displayed in sari-sari stores or even in your own Filipino home. Usually, when we order from the store, we say “Isa ka lapad” to measure how many mL we want to buy.
1L Coke Bottles = Gasoline Container
Coca Cola Photo from Woolworths | Photo composed via Canva
When we used to buy gasoline to power our cooking stoves, we used 1L Coke bottles as gasoline containers. It’s a good thing this habit stopped because, considering the vulnerability of glass bottles, they may cause fires and accidents, especially when they spill over!
Paint Buckets = Water Buckets
Photo composed via Canva
After constructing a humble home, tons of large paint buckets were left in the area to clean up. So, instead of throwing it all away, our dear fathers reused the buckets as-is! The next day, you’ll see the bucket inside the banyo filled with water for your bath.
Anything else you want to add to the list? Share it in the comments below!
From opening your windows to simple breathing exercises – here are ways you can manage your stress at home!
Photo from Pexels
Despite being among the happiest nations, it’s concerning to learn that an estimated 154 million Filipinos are affected by depression, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). With the lingering stigma surrounding mental health, it’s crucial to find effective ways to cope with stress.
Photo from Pexels
So, as a fellow Filipino and Sugboanon, here are things you can do at home to relieve your stress:
Stop and breathe
Us Filipinos are prone to holding our breaths and hustling every hour, that’s why foreign countries prefer our services since we are known to be hardworking. Which is also why we often forget to take a minute and breathe, because we keep on making ourselves busy.
Photo from Pexels
You don’t have to lay down a yoga mat or even take a seat, just stop what you’re doing, relax, and take at least 10 deep breaths. According to studies, deep breaths allow your body to have better and regulated air flow, which affects how our mind works afterwards to reduce stress, anxiety, and calm our nerves.
Soak your feet
Get a small basin, put some table salt, pour in a mixture of hot and lukewarm water, and dip your toes in! Soaking your feet helps release toxins out of your body and relaxes it too, especially if your day job requires you to stand or walk for miles.
Photo from Pexels
Aside from the relaxing benefits of it, the soaking process also helps in exfoliating your skin and reducing inflammation. You can do this twice a week or during the weekends on your rest days.
Open your windows
Yes, it’s hot in Cebu right now but opening your windows to let the sunshine in helps in boosting your serotonin levels.
Photo from Pexels
It elevates your mood, so it’s best to welcome Mr. Sun early in the morning to have the additional brain power and happy pill.
Stretch like a cat
Oh the beauty of being a cat: no work, no bills to pay; just meowing the day away! And that’s why we must follow their stress-relieving exercise which is as simple as doing a bit of stretching.
Photo from Pexels
In yoga terms, the exercise is known as the “Cat-Cow” which focuses on strengthening your shoulders and back, and improving your blood circulation.
Drink water
Water has natural calming properties, which is why when one’s in an anxiety attack, a sip of water is often given.
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So, if you feel like your head’s about to explode from everything that’s happening around you, just step back, and take a sip of water. Listen to how your body reacts to the liquid and enjoy every trickle.
Lie on the floor
Our grandmas would scold us if we’re spotted lying on the floor! But, did you know that being on the floor is proven to be relaxing, according to science? Dr. Ellen Hendriksen, a clinical psychologist, confirmed that lying on the floor is beneficial because our postures are open and relaxed.
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While in the realm of energies, this action makes us more grounded to the Earth which in turn connects our rhythm to nature and regulates our stress response. So, the next time you want to cry your heart out of frustration, LIE ON THE FLOOR!
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These simple practices can go a long way in alleviating stress. However, if you find yourself overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Your mental health matters, and there’s always support available when you need it.
MENTAL HEALTH HELPLINES IN CEBU
Organization: Philippine Mental Health Association – Cebu Chapter
