Home Blog Page 72

From Elevate to Tapestry: Here Are Ai’s Favorite Words

0

It’s BIG Word Day! And what better way to celebrate it than by looking into the “highfalutin” words that Ai commonly uses!

Photo from Pexels

Ai or artificial intelligence is slowly taking over the world, including the sector of literature. However, similar to how us humans can sometimes reach a writer’s block, Ai also has tendencies in using repetitive words regardless of your varying prompts.

Photo from Canva

So, in no particular order, here are Ai’s favorite words according to AiPhraseFinders.com:

Tapestry

Definition: A type of fabric with designs formed by weaving colored threads.

Sample Sentence: Cebu is a tapestry of culture and heritage.

Photo from Canva

Elevate

Definition: To raise or lift to a higher position.

Sample Sentence: Elevate your camping experiences by heading to this island now!

Photo from Canva

Navigate

Definition: To plan and direct the route or to find one’s way through.

Sample Sentence: Navigate your way to the hotel by following the instructions of the tour guide.

Photo from Canva

Captivating

Definition: Used to describe someone or something that’s interesting or beautiful to look at.

Sample Sentence: The captivating views of sunset will make your vacation worth it.

Photo from Canva

Array

Definition: A display of variety

Sample Sentence: Bantayan Island has an array of beautiful marine life.

Photo from Canva

Embark

Definition: To go on a journey or board a ship

Sample Sentence: Let’s embark on the adventure of a lifetime!

Photo from Canva

Delve

Definition: To dig deeper or research more about a subject

Sample Sentence: Interesting stories will welcome you as we get to delve deeper into the history of Cebu.

Photo from Canva

Symphony

Definition: A musical composition for full orchestra or a group of items that goes in harmony with each other

Sample Sentence: A symphony of the sound of the crashing waves and sea breeze will be the music that will envelop your stay at the resort.

Photo from Canva

Vibrant

Definition: Colorful or full of energy

Sample Sentence: The Sinulog is one of the most-awaited and vibrant festival in the Philippines.

Photo from Canva

Diverse

Definition: Different types

Sample Sentence: The Queen City of the South is one of the most beautiful and diverse when it comes to its people and culture.

Photo from Canva

Have you noticed some of the words above when you used an Ai tool? Share those words in the comments below!

Top 50 Most Common Cebuano Surnames

From Abella to Ybáñez, let’s check out the Top 50 surnames in Cebu!

Photo from Canva

Cebuano surnames offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of Cebu, often tracing back to Spanish roots like the illustrious Caballero, referring to gallant gentlemen. Beyond mere labels, these names are often a blend of words, each carrying a story that whispers of our ancestors’ diverse origins and cultural legacies.

So, let’s get to know if your surname is one of the most common ones in the island of Cebu:

Top 10 Most Common Surnames

1st: Pepito

Meaning: “Jehovah increases” | Derived from the name “Jose” which is a Hispanic form of the Hebrew name “Joseph”

Photo from GMA

2nd: Flores

Meaning: plural of flowers in Spanish or Portuguese

Photo from Canva

3rd: Cañete

Meaning: small tube

Photo from Canva

4th: Fernández

Meaning: brave traveler | son of Fernando

Photo from Canva

5th: Ybáñez

Meaning: implies a pioneering spirit | a variant of Ibañez

Photo from Canva

6th: Sánchez

Meaning: son of Sancho | in Latin, it can be translated as “your holiness”

Photo from Canva

7th: Abella

Meaning: vapor or breath

Photo from Canva

8th: Baguio

Meaning: Derived from the word “bagiw” which means moss

Photo from Canva

9th: Gonzales

Meaning: battle or war

Photo from Canva

10th: Pérez

Meaning: breakthrough

Photo from Canva

Top 50 Most Common Surnames In Cebu

Why Are Surnames Important?

Surnames are important because they provide individuals with a distinct identity, connecting them to their family, heritage, and lineage. They help establish a sense of belonging within communities and make it easier for people to identify and relate to each other.

Photo from Canva

Whether you’re familiar with its meaning or not, it’s essential to honor and uphold your surname, keeping the spirit of your lineage alive. Share with us in the comments below the stories behind your surnames and the places you believe your first ancestors called home in Cebu. Let’s celebrate the diverse backgrounds of our heritage together!

#MakeItReal: The Most Budget-Friendly Smartphone Is Set to Launch This April 2024!

Sugboanons, are you ready to make it real? If you are, then buckle up as there will be an amazing and spectaculiar new product from Realme!

As technology continues to expand in the running time, this latest product in the smartphone market is set to change the boundaries of innovation. Realme will soon launch a new  product with an array of features that can please your eyes!

Preview of Realme’s Unreleased Phone

The color of the phone which is Woodland Green embraces tranquility. This hue is effortlessly captivating and easily blends to soothing tones in our environment, and clothes as well! It has a gradient finish on the back panel, giving it a distinct look that transitions between different colors, making an eye-catching effect when light hits its surface. It has a semi-matte finish. Moreover, the camera outline is inspired by trendy and fashionable watches, and the scuplt of the phone fits snugly in the hand, ensuring a comfortable grip when in use. 

We Tried It & Here’s What We Think

Holding Realme’s new product feels like you are cradling a piece of magic; it is totally an overall package! It comes with a charger and a tool for a SIM tray. The phone’s structure feels smooth, and fits nicely in the hand. And, the screen is the best part! It is broad which makes it perfect for gaming and watching movies. Also, the phone has efficient power management techniques within its software to optimize battery usage and maximize longevity; it charges quickly! Overall, we loved the performance of Realme’s new unit.  

Realme truly has an unwavering commitment to provide high quality products for their users to enjoy. With their products’ battery life and aesthetically pleasing design, it never fails to give satisfaction to consumers.

Join Realme as they will be releasing a new product this April 25, 2024 that will keep pace with our bustling lives. With cameras that capture our most cherished moments with unparalleled clarity and software that feels like a trusted companion guiding us through the digital landscape, Realme has become more than just a brand – it’s a lifestyle.

Exploring Cebu’s Dynamic Music Productions

Buckle up, music enthusiasts! As we embark on a sonic adventure through the electrifying landscape of local music productions. 

Cebu has various music events showcasing different genres of music. What’s more amazing? The fact that the productions behind these events are truly passionate about helping and supporting local musicians to start and expand their careers, as well as create a better music community. 

Here are 5 music event productions in Cebu City that are aiming for a comprehensive music industry.

1. OldFart Production

This was conceptualized and launched last 2022. Their main objective is to support and showcase local musicians with potential by providing them opportunities to share their talents, especially those with original compositions. OldFart Production organizes music events in any genre as long as these musicians perform with passion and dedication to their crafts.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

  • Door Fee: starts at Php 150.00. Stay tuned on their Facebook page for updates. 

OTHER INFORMATION

2. Tabz Musika Local

They started just last year as a house production of TabzSizzlers Music and Resto. They aim to bring out the young generation of local musicians by offering them exposure and experience that will help them improve their skills and capabilities, and serve as their home. Moreover, they want to bring all musicians together without any specifications on their music genre.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

  • Door Fee: Free of charge. Stay tuned on their Facebook page for updates.

OTHER INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: F. Cabahug St. Brgy. Kasambagan Panagdait, Cebu City

  • By Car: Navigate via Google Maps or Waze and pin “Tabzsizzlers Music and Resto” as your destination.

3. Weird Emily Production

It is funny to think that the idea of starting this production was impulsively created during a smoke break last 2017. It was just a random thought they had. Unexpectedly, after their first event, they received messages from local bands wanting to collaborate with them. They wholeheartedly accepted those who approached, and started organizing more events to promote various local bands in all genres.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

  • Door Fee: Free of charge. Stay tuned on their Facebook page for updates. 

OTHER INFORMATION

4. BlaxkBox 6000 Productions

BlaxBox 6000 Productions started last November 2022 because they wanted to produce a Christmas gig for the punk/hardcore underground scene. It was supposed to be a one-time event, but fortunately, they had more events after that, leading them to expand. Fun fact: The people running this production are all women. Their main intent is to unite local bands in the music scene, and unify different genres of music. They are also aiming for a safe and friendly environment to build a strong foundation of camaraderie in the music industry. Anything that revolves around their music preferences such as punk, ska, hardcore, metalcore, and emo will be their point of focus. 

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

  • Door Fee: starts at Php 150.00. Stay tuned on their Facebook page for updates. 

OTHER INFORMATION

5. Plug and Play Studio

Plug and Play studio was founded in 2013. It initially started as a website featuring bands. Around 2014, it evolved into an actual production. Their main objective is to raise donations through organizing indoor events for people who are affected by calamities. Amazing, right? Their main focus are rock’s sub-genres, specifically pop punk, emo, and metal. However, they are currently exploring ideas for pop music as they want to broaden their scope.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

RATES

  • Door Fee: starts at Php 300.00. Stay tuned on their Facebook page for updates. 

OTHER INFORMATION

These music productions have 2 things in common, which are abundantly clear; they are all passionate about helping local musicians, and dedicated to sculpt Cebu’s music community into a better music scene.

As we applaud these productions for their unwavering support and strong commitment to nurturing Cebu’s music industry, let us not forget that our support for them also plays an essential role in attaining their goal. Thus, let’s shower them with support for a more diverse and inclusive local musical landscape. 

Taste Tango: Flavored Crispy Chicken Skin to Try Out

Tempted by the idea of savoring powdered chicken skin with flavors bursting in your mouth? Look no further!

No one ever expected a collaboration between these 2 mighty brands that serve affordable, yet savory goodies! Another must-try treat.

Flavored Crispy Chicken Skin 

Potato Corner recently collaborated with Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar. The tandem produced flavored crispy chicken skin for only 149 pesos.

Lami na, sulit pa! 

Its irresistible look and budget-friendly price definitely makes it a perfect treat that is satisfying not only for our stomachs, but our wallets as well! Whether you’re sharing it with friends, enjoying it with loved ones, or indulging yourself solo, this savory snack will surely hit the spot! This is would also go well with some beer on the side while spilling tea with your barkadas. 

So what are you waiting for? Tara na! Embark a flavor-filled adventure like no other.

Let’s dig in, and experience the ultimate snacking sensation with Peri-Peri’s Crispy Chicken Skin partnered with Potato Corner’s flavors! 

JUST IN: Hillsong London Cebu Concert Ticket Prices Are Here!

Sugboanons! The Hillsong Church London Cebu concert details are here!

Photo from Hillsong Church X.com Official Page

One of the most-awaited concert in Cebu of this year has released the details for their tickets and seats today!

Photo from Hillsong Church X.com Official Page

This coming November 8, 2024 at 8PM, MYLE will present the worship team of Hillsong Church London on the stage of SM Seaside Cebu City Concert Grounds. They have early bird tickets with budget-friendly prices that concert-goers can purchase this April 24, 2024 at 12 noon until 11:59 AM of April 28, 2024. On the other hand, regular ticket prices will be available after the last day of the early bird sale.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Photo from SMTickets

EARLY BIRD RATES

Sale period: April 24, 12NN to April 28 11:59AM

  • VIP Seated – Php 2,590.00
  • Platinum – Php 1,300.00
  • Gold – Php 660.00
  • Silver – Php 360.00

REGULAR RATES

Sale period: April 28, 12NN onwards

  • VIP Seated – Php 3,000.00
  • Platinum – Php 1,620.00
  • Gold – Php 860.00
  • Silver – Php 560.00

WHERE TO BUY TICKETS?

Tickets will be available via SM Ticketing outlets and online. Make sure to only purchase tickets through authorized resellers and representatives of SM Tickets.

Photo from Hillsong Church X.com Official Page

Sugboanons, the wait is over so set the alarm for the early bird sales to secure your tickets before it gets sold out!

BINI Breaches 3M Monthly Listeners On Spotify, Surpassing SB19

BINI once again reached a milestone!

The eight-member group, known as the “Nation’s Girl Group” has become the rising P-Pop stars with the largest fan base on Spotify, surpassing SB19. 

BINI: Continuously Making Waves in the P-Pop Industry

As of April 19, BINI has amassed 3.0 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Their continuous success led them to top SB19, the leading P-pop group. In line with the milestones they have reached, BINI is set to do their first-ever solo concert, scheduled thi June 28-30, 2024, entitled BINIverse.

The renowned female P-pop is known for their cheerful and catchy melodies that everyone can dance  to. Their top song on Spotify is “Pantropiko”, which currently has 23 million listens. This is also currently a TikTok dance craze which became a worldwide trend especially after UNIS did a cover of the song. 

With their captivating music and dance moves, they surpassed the rising P-pop group SB19. This extraordinary achievement marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Filipino pop music, which also represents the shift in the dynamics of the Filipino pop industry. 

As the girl group continues to soar and make history, BINI is poised to leave extraordinary marks on the music industry by inspiring and captivating audiences through their music.

So, Sugboanons, comment below your favorite BINI songs!

JUST IN SWIFTIES: Taylor Swift’s “The Tortured Poets Department” Has Been Released!

Swifties, the long wait is finally over!

Prepare to be whisked away as Taylor Swift, the reigning queen of pop, just released her 11th album entitled,  The Tortured Poet Department. 

The Tortured Poet Department

The renowned singer-songwriter is known for her vivid lyrics and captivating melodies. She is once again capturing the vulnerable spot of her listeners with her newly released album, delving into heartbreaks.

The Tortured Poet Department or TTPD sets out as testament of Taylor Swift’s evolution. She announced this during her speech when she won Album of the Year with her album “Midnights” at the last 66th Annual Grammy Awards.

TTPD is her first full break-up album. A melancholic introspection embodying Taylor Swift’s resilience and empowerment. Every song under this album delivers an empowering message of self-love and representation of vulnerability. These anthems surely touched the hearts of her listeners, even those with the coldest hearts.

Taylor Swift effortlessly weaved a deep and universally relatable narrative through this album. She never fails to capture the complexities of human emotions, especially the strong feelings we feel while healing through a break-up. 

With her latest album, she once again proves why she is the reigning queen of pop and one of the most influential artists in her generation. TTPD is a powerful exploration of human experience, showcasing her exceptional talent of crafting heart-rending and redolent music that resonates with listeners all over the world.

LOOK: The Country’s Largest Marine Protected Area Is In The Visayas!

Beautiful seascapes, deep waters, and thriving marine life is what this body of water in the Visayas has!

Photo from Canva

Known as the Tañon Strait, it is the separator of Cebu and Negros Islands in the Visayas region. It connects the Bohol and Visayan Seas together even if both waters are from opposing sides wherein the Visayan Sea is in the north while Bohol Sea’s in the south. Measuring up to 160 kilometers long and up to 27 kilometers wide, the strait became constant pathways for dolphins and whales to pass by.

A 5,000 Square Kilometer Body Of Water

Photo from Canva

For comparison, the entire Cebu island is 5,342 sq km in terms of land areas. Now imagine a body of water as large as the whole Cebu and is surrounding the island itself! That’s how wide the Tañon Strait is.

Because of the vast coverage of the strait and its blooming marine life, President Ramos passed the Proclamation No. 1234 of 1998 for its protection under the name Tañon Strait Protected Seascape.

Photo from Canva

Marine Life At The Strait

Based on the research done by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the other associated organizations protecting marine life, there are 11 different species of marine mammals that can be found in the strait, and here are some of them:

Sea cows

Photo from Canva

Also known as the mythical “dugong” in Filipino lore. Sea cows or manatees are relatives of elephants and they consume a vegetarian diet, so you don’t have to worry about them looking at you for dinner when you do get to swim with one of them.

Photo from Canva

Whales

Photo from Canva

Some of the species of whales spotted at the strait included the baleen, dwarf sperm whales, melon-headed whales, short-finned pilot whales, and the toothed whales. A rare sighting though would be the whale sharks!

Photo from Canva

Dolphins

Photo from Canva

There are several types of dolphins that can be seen at the strait such as the bottlenose dolphins, spinner dolphins, and the Irrawaddy dolphins.

Photo from Canva

Fish

Photo from Canva

Pacific bluefin tunas, parrotfish, checked snappers, and groupers thrive at the Tañon Strait, and they serve the main source of livelihood for the fisherfolk.

Photo from Canva

Large Squid

Photo from Canva

Known by locals as the “dalupapa”, this large squid can grow up to 100 cm and can weigh up to 20kg! Locals wade through the waters of the strait at night since it is the time when the dalupapa can easily be caught.

The Legend Of The Whirlpool At Tañon Strait

Tañon Strait is known to have random bouts of whirlpools and this phenomenon became the reason for tales in Cebuano folklore.

Photo from Canva

According to mythology, Sinogo, one of the winged giant messengers of the supreme god Kaptan, stole a sacred shell that gives the power of shape-shifting. Punished for his theft, Sinogo fled west and used the shell to turn himself into a giant crocodile, seeking refuge in the waters between modern-day Cebu and Negros.

Photo from Canva

In anger, Kaptan struck Sinogo with lightning, condemning him to eternal imprisonment in what is now known as Tañon Strait. But, even though he betrayed Kaptan, the god preserved Sinogo’s sacred crocodile form out of love. So the legend goes that when whirlpools appear on the strait, it means that Sinogo is attempting his next escape.

Photo from Canva

Have you been to the Tañon Strait? If so, share with us your favorite memory and what marine life you were able to see under its vibrant waters!

1st Int’l College & Career Exposure: WISE Immigration & Study Services Partners Up With Ateneo de Cebu to Send Students Abroad

Canada is proud to create a milestone by welcoming the first and largest group of Senior High School students from Ateneo de Cebu, Cebu City, Philippines on its 1st International College and Career Exposure (iC2E) 2024.

Cebu City, Philippines – April 17, 2024 – Ateneo de Cebu (Sacred Heart School) in partnership with Niagara College from Welland, Ontario Canada is proud to announce the launch of the first-ever and largest Canadian Study Tour Program for Filipino Senior High School students. “The 1st International College and Career Exposure (iC2E) aims to provide opportunities for the students to integrate concepts, principles, skills and values developed from Senior High School core, applied and specialized subjects with a GLOCAL perspective wherein a global paradigm was applied in a local context.” explained by Mr. Hejie Suralta, the CAIRO Director of Ateneo de Cebu.

This innovative program offers high school students aged 14-18, with a focus on senior high schoolers, a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Canadian education, culture, and environment.

The 14-day program, taking place from April 23 to May 7, 2024, will be held at Niagara College’s Welland Campus in Ontario. Students will participate in a mix of morning lectures and workshops (3-5 hours) followed by afternoon tours and top Canadian university visits such as the University of Toronto, Brock University, Toronto Metropolitan University and University of Waterloo were among the Canadian universities who are eager to open their doors to the students They will also have the chance to interact with Canadian students and the local Filipino community.

This event also brought a new milestone to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Canada this year.

Ateneo de Cebu Paves the Way for Student Delegation

Four Seasons Immigration Services Inc., represented by the CEO, Ms. Leah Fe Balucan-Ybanez, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant actively represented Ateneo de Cebu delegates to ensure that all immigration-related involvements are properly adhered to. This program was initiated by the local immigration company, WISE IMMIGRATION AND STUDY SERVICES in collaboration with Ateneo de Cebu and Niagara College Canada to bring this program to life. After meetings with stakeholders at the prestigious high school, the first student delegation of 22 students and 2 teacher chaperones will embark on the inaugural Canadian Study Tour Program.

This program is a fantastic opportunity for Filipino students to test the waters of a first-world education system,” says Leah Fe Balucan-Ybañez, CEO of Four Seasons Immigration Services Inc. “We are thrilled to partner with Ateneo de Cebu and offer their students this unique experience.

About Four Seasons Immigration and Study Services Inc.

Four Seasons Immigration Services Inc. is dedicated to providing exceptional service in Canadian immigration and international education. Their commitment to professionalism, ethics, and quality of service ensures a positive impact on their clients’ lives.

Experience Canada for Yourself!

Contact Four Seasons Immigration and Wise Immigration and Study Services today to learn more about the Study Tour Program.

CONTACT INFORMATION