Have you heard of the changes in the Service Charge Law mandated by DOLE?
Photo from People Management
On February 1, 2024, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) revised implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 11360 which now requires establishments to distribute service charges collected among all employees equally. This change sparked a spirited debate among hospitality and restaurant industry employees, as this policy shift directly impacts them. While some backed the change, others advocated higher wages, mainly because some establishments include service charges as part of their employees’ take-home pay. A few businesses opted to forego the service charge collection altogether to promote equality in the workplace, with Bai Hotel being one notable example.
Photo from bai Hotel Cebu Official Facebook Page
Today, March 15, 2024, Bai Hotel Cebu announced on social media its decision to implement a “No Service Charge Policy” for all its products and services starting March 19, 2024. The hotel’s management stated that this decision reflects its dedication and integrity to providing quality performance and services without depending on additional fees.
Netizens’ reactions to Bai’s latest advisory were divided. Some expressed their concerns about the employees’ well-being. One commented that the establishment should raise the pay for staff welfare, and another voiced that the decision may increase employee turnover, while others applauded Bai for taking the step.
What’s your take on Bai Hotel Cebu’s decision? Did they make the right move, or did the management place themselves in a tough spot?
Get ready, Sugboanons! It’s time to pack up and head to where the dreamy sunset and white sands meet: Santa Fe, Bantayan Island!
In time for the Lenten Season’s long weekend, EB Aznar Shipping Corporation (EBASCO) gets back into action as they offer budget-friendly trips from Kawit, Medellin Cebu to Santa Fe, Bantayan Island and back. Now you can experience dining in paradise at Santa Fe’s best restaurants and resorts without breaking your bank to get there!
Photo from Barkota
Starting today, March 15, 2024, you can travel to Bantayan Island for as low as Php250.00. And if you’re a student, senior citizen, or a child, then expect discounted rates.
*Rates are subjected to change without prior notice.
BOARDING GUIDELINES
Make sure to have physical tickets on-hand and a valid ID to present upon boarding. E-Tickets must be printed. A copy of the birth certificate of minors must be provided.
OSCA ID (This is required for the senior citizen discount).
Company ID or Student ID (must have a signature/stamp for the current school term)
Pregnant and/or passengers must present a valid medical certificate dated at least 5 days before departure and a signed waiver stating the passenger’s fitness for sea travel.
Expired tickets will not be refunded.
CARGO GUIDELINES
A printed copy of the ticket/voucher must be secured and presented.
A photocopy of the vehicle’s OR/CR should be available for verification purposes.
Settle port fees before entering the pier for inspection:
Vehicle with Driver: RoRo Terminal Fee
Vehicle without Driver: Wharfage Fee (payment due to the origin port authority and another payment due to the destination port authority
Note: Vehicles without drivers may incur an additional “Handling Fee” upon claiming at the destination port. Please make sure to prepare all necessary documents upon claiming.
PRE-LOADING / INSPECTION
Cut-off period must be followed as slots will be released for those not available after the cut-off time.
WHERE TO BUY THE TICKETS?
Tickets for both passenger and cargo shipping needs can be bought online via EBASCO’s website and at designated ticketing outlets.
Exact Address: 2nd Flr., Manoling Bldg., V. Gullas St., Brgy. San Roque, Cebu City, Philippines
BY COMMUTE: From SM City Cebu, take the 01K jeepney with a route going to Colon St. Cebu City and inform the driver that you’ll be dropping off at the Cebu Technological University – Main Campus or YASCO Motor Parts. After the residential house beside YASCO Motor Parts, you can find a commercial building, which is the Manoling Building where EBASCO’s office is located.
BY CAR: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps by pinning the location of “Aznar Shipping Corporation.”
The stars will align once again as the Star Magic hosts the 2024 Star Magical Prom! The event will be shown live on YouTube today, March 14, 2024, at 6 PM, Manila Time.
Photo from STAR MAGIC Official Facebook Page
Dubbed “The Fairytale Beginning,” the event will feature the talents of Star Magic and the most awaited awarding of the 2024 Prom King and Queen. Last year, the pairing of DonBelle, Donny Pangilinan, and Belle Mariano won the crown. So, for this year’s title, who’s your bias love team you deem deserving?
FranSeth – Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin
On February 10, 2024, Seth Fedelin set the world in a frenzy of kilig after he made a promposal to Francine Diaz on-stage during their show in Dubai. Seth said to Francine, “Mas mataas pa diyan ang pagmamahal ko sa’yo bilang katrabaho,” and then proceeded to hand her a rose to ask her to be his prom date.
The video circulated online, leading to fans gushing over the love team. However, Star Magic released a video showing that Seth did the first promposal in the desert of Sharjah two days before the stage promposal. This fueled fans’ speculation even more about the two’s real relationship status. Although, Seth did mention during the promposal that he values her as a workmate, so, there’s that!
CrizVey – Harvey Bautista and Criza Taa
With over 1.3 million viewers on TikTok, CrizVey turned viral after Harvey Bautista surprised Criza Taa with a bouquet and a dinner date overlooking the skyline.
The pair started their love team journey as they co-starred in Zoomers, where they played each other’s love interests. Due to their on-screen chemistry, the two garnered tons of fans and supporters, which marked the beginning of their love team name, “CrizVey.” However, the pair also made clear to their fans that they’re both single and ready to date but not dating in real life.
KDLex – KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad
KD Estrada whipped up the perfect recipe for a unique promposal as he chose the culinary route to surprise Alexa Illacad.
It took two delicious dishes and the help of Cola, their adorable furbaby, to pull off the promposal. KD attached a tiny message to Cola, which was then immediately delivered to Alexa as the pup entered the room. After several cuddles with her furbaby, Alexa answered, “Yes! A hundred percent. How can I say no to this?”
Photo from Metro.Style
Although the two are often seen together on holidays and vacations, they both claim to still be in the courting phase and not yet dating. But who knows after the cameras roll, right?
Kei Kurosawa and Krstyl Ball, Vivoree and Brent Manalo, and many other love teams are going to the Star Magical Prom 2024. Regardless of how the ladies were proposed to, it was the gesture that mattered. But the question remains: Who will you vote for the winning love team to hold the crowns of Prom King and Prom Queen for 2024? And who will complete the Royal Awardees as the Prince and Princess of freshmen, sophomores, and seniors?
Hey, Girlie! Our girl-to-girl talk today is the two F words.
As in Fashion and Fun!
Because girls always want to have SM fun, and what is fun without Fashion?
And who said style glow-up needs to be expensive? This Women’s Month, SM ensures that you glow more by enjoying 50% OFF at your favorite shops here at SM Seaside all Wednesdays of March (March 6, 13, 20, 17)
However, another stressful battle is discovering your style in a world full of coquette, Y2K, and old-money fashion styles.
To save you from this kind of trouble, we’ve listed helpful tips to save you time, effort, and resources in finding your THE ONE because you deserve to glow more, Girlie!
WORK ON YOUR CAPSULE WARDROBE
Grandiose tops and bottoms aside, you must first make sure that you have at least one basic clothing for each fit in your wardrobe. Recheck if you have a plain white tee, an elegant black dress, a pair of jeans, and basic tops in neutral colors.
To elevate the look you may also need at least one classic blazer and one denim jacket.
Investing in a capsule collection of mix-and-match basics helps us unleash our creativity and make it look like we’re put together.
For as low as P399, you can already get hold of some basics missing in your wardrobe from OXGN’s collection.
OXGN | Second Level, Mountain Wing | SM Seaside City Cebu
ACCESSORIZE
A not-so-secret that fashion girlies do to emphasize some parts of the overall fit and look put-together is by putting the right accessories in the right places. It’s also a great trick for bringing balance to a look that otherwise might not work—like a layered necklace or a chunky ring from BIG Jewelry.
BIG Jewelry | Second Level, Cube Wing | SM Seaside City Cebu
EXPERIMENT WITH COLORS
Color the monochromatic world of fashion with your colored fits!
If you’re nervous about adding color to your look, you may start with just one colorful piece, and keep the rest of your look neutral.
As you go along the journey of putting color, you’ll slowly know which color works together for you and which does not.
U.S. Polo Assn. is the best starter for a pop of color in your fit.
U.S. Polo Assn. | Second Level, City Wing | SM Seaside City Cebu
MIX AND MATCH PATTERNS
Matchy -matchy textures are out, Patterns are in!
If you want to go with a bolder fashion statement, matching textures and patterns is the best move for you!
However, I know that for some this is a scary move to pull especially for girlies who are still discovering which style suits them. The tip for newbies is to start with small details such as stripes and low-key textures like leather and knits, adding in the sequins and paisleys in small amounts like a scarf, tie, or clutch.
You can score fits with patterns and textures at Forme with a 50% discount on selected items.
Forme | Second Level, Mountain Wing | SM Seaside City Cebu
This Women’s Month, let’s remember that we are women who can be anything we want to be as long as we dress up the part. And these tips will surely help you achieve your glow.
What are you waiting for? Head to SM Seaside today and #KeepGlowingAtSM!
For more details, follow SM Seaside City Cebu’s Facebook and Instagram Page.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: SM Seaside City Cebu in South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City.
BY COMMUTE: You can take a FREE MyBus ride from/to BDO Fuente Osmena from 8:20 AM to 10:00 PM. You can also ride any MyBus from SM City Cebu, Talisay, Mandaue City, Parkmall, and any Cibus to get to and from SM Seaside City Cebu Drop-off point is at the City Wing Entrance.
BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “SM Seaside City Cebu.” Parking space is free.
As someone who has never tried Malatang before, Yang Hero set the bar so high for me after trying their exquisite dishes. Named after half of the owners who is Vincent Yang, and (whose last name is 杨) a Chinese Surname associated to “warrior/hero” during the Song Dynasty, Yang Hero has something new to offer to all the foodies out there.
On February 18, the grand opening of Yang Hero’s second branch took place in Parkmall. Not only was their menu delectably excellent, but the interior was one you don’t see every day in any other restaurant.
As Chinese as it can be, every corner is filled with red with multiple figures of traditional and modern murals and Chinese inscriptions in neon. Look up and you’ll see a multitude of lit lanterns and a ceiling, like going to a lantern festival in Chinese provinces.
Yang Hero offers affordable and authentic Sichuan food, directly putting Mainland Chinese cuisine on our local tables. This is the place where we can finally have a taste of malatang, exclusively originating from the owners’ hometown of Sichuan, named after its key ingredient, mala. This is a combination of Sichuan pepper and dried chili pepper- which is essentially a numbing spicy soup. Yang Hero, however, toned down the spices as not many Filipinos can take heat as much as people in other cultures who are very accustomed to it in their cuisine. Committed to their target market, Yang Hero tailored their menu to the average Filipino taste buds.
Diners get to choose the ingredients they want for their malatang, weighing everything they picked on the counter to avoid food waste, as this has been the problem of their previous system when customers kept putting ingredients without finishing their bowls. All the ingredients used in Yang Hero, except for the seafood and vegetables, are all imported from China. Expect a mind-blowing bowl of malatang soup with their premium ingredients at a very affordable price.
The affordability of everything in their menu sets Yang Hero apart from its counterparts. The recipes are authentic, the ingredients are high-grade, and you won’t quite have the taste and experience it offers anywhere else.
Menu:
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
OPENING HOURS
Parkmall Branch: 10 AM to 11 PM
Exact Location: Park Mall, Enclave Garden, Ouano Ave, Reclamation Area, Mandaue City
IT Park Branch: 11 AM to 11 PM
Exact Location: Ayala Malls, Central Bloc, 11, Garden Row, Cebu City
SM Seaside Branch: 10 AM to 9 PM(SUN-THURS)/10 PM (FRI-SAT)
Parkmall Branch: Ride 01K in Colon Street. The last stop of the jeepney would be the Parkmall Terminal before going back to Colon, and you will be dropped off exactly at the mall.
IT Park Branch: Ride 17B or 17D and ask the driver to drop you off at Garden Row.
SM Seaside: You may wait for MyBus at BDO Fuente, or the nearest bus stop where SM’s buses wait for passengers, which will bring you directly to SM Seaside. You may also ride 08G/09G/10G and ask the driver to drop you off at the flyover in Mambaling. From there, you can ride a habal-habal going to SM Seaside.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Yang Hero” + the name of the branch you plan to go to.
This Women’s Month is a good time for solo artists in Kpop!
Chung Ha
Chung Ha broke her nearly two-year hiatus with the new single ‘EENIE MEENIE,’ which was released on March 11. With the goal of flipping a new chapter in her growth as an artist after her long hiatus, Chung Ha shared with her fans that her song explains her readiness to get to the new stage of her artistry and that each part of the lyrics shows her current state of mind.
Photo from Rolling Stone
Due to the ever-changing world of music and trends, Chung Ha admitted feeling lost and confused about what she would become. Experimenting with an entirely new sound, Chung Ha reached out to ATEEZ leader, Hongjoong, to man the ship as she tries to navigate the new waters in her career. With Hongjoong’s help, Chung Ha found her eagerness to test new limits and saw herself as a more mature version of herself.
Photo from InsertLive
Wendy
Red Velvet’s Wendy released her latest solo, “Wish You Hell,” which is her first album after almost three years of launching the mini-album, ‘Like Water,’ last April 2021. It will feature six tracks along with the title track.
Photo from The Bias List
Fans were both excited and skeptical about the release, especially after the music video teaser trailer was unveiled on March 11. Rocking an all-black ensemble, Wendy can be seen walking in a church, followed by a shot of her staring down at a coffin with a doppelganger of her but in an all-white outfit inside.
Photo from Genius
Some fans dubbed the artist “Wendy Lavigne,” a nod to the grungy pop-rock vibes of Avril Lavigne. Others interpreted the video as a mockery of the holy Catholic church or temple. Nevertheless, ReVeLuvs continually show their full support to Wendy despite skepticism.
YooA
Oh My Girl’s YooA will release her new single, “Borderline,” on March 14 at 6 PM. This will be her first-ever solo album after “Selfish” two years ago.
Photo from @MiracleDoe on X
One of the challenges that YooA encountered was her name. She stated that she wanted to keep her full name as her stage name, “Yoo Si-a.” However, the Korean music industry required more than just a name, but also an identity, which would later mark the beginning of a battle between YooA and her agency.
Photo from allkpop
Another challenge was YooA’s intent on pursuing a career beyond making music, such as acting. But, similar to her request to hold on to her name, her agency said no. This decision, however, did not prevent YooA from dreaming big and becoming a multitalented artist as she embarks on a new journey of self-discovery in the world of music and film.
Kim Nam Joo
Apink’s Kim Nam Joo will release her second solo single, ‘BAD,’ on March 18 at 6 PM. Because of her photos and videos exuding her bold attitude and confident aura, her single received heightened expectations.
Photo from Apink on YoutubePhoto from allkpop
Female soloist artists are significant to the growth of the Korean music industry, especially when pursuing their careers amidst critiques and bashers alike. With more and more female artists deciding to return to the music scene after years of cutting across rough waters and even rougher agencies, it will not take long for the rise of the era of the pinnacle of music led by strong, independent, and powerful women.
We’re entering the antihero era, as both the Joker and Venom installments are coming to cinemas this October 2024.
Joker 2: Folie a Deux
Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix will play the phenomenal characters of Harley Quinn and Joker in Joker 2: Folie a Deux. The highly anticipated first official trailer will be released on April 9, 2024, at CinemaCon.
Photo from IMDb
The upcoming sequel will focus on the comeback of the iconic DC antagonist. It will be the sole DC film that will hit the screens in 2024. Although the sequel seemed to be well-received by fans worldwide, a few still need to be convinced about the bold move that the producers are taking in possibly making the film a musical. On the other hand, some were open to a more imaginative storyline with musical features placed into it to avoid the plot’s predictability.
Photo from Ci-Lovers
Venom: The Last Dance
Mark your calendars for the return of Tom Hardy as Venom in the third installment, Venom: The Last Dance. Director Kelly Marcel has just revealed the official title and release date, October 25, 2024, promising another thrilling adventure.
Photo from IMDb
Fans were beyond excited about the new sequel, and there were rumors that there would finally be a Spider-Man character in the movie, which they hoped Andrew Garfield would play. The inclusion of Spider-Man fits into the multiversal-hopping of Venom after the previous two movies, Venom: Let There Be Carnage and Spider-Man: No Way Home, showed it being a possibility at the end-credits scenes. Considering that the film’s working title, before the official one was released, was “Orwell,” it fed fans more theories, including Venom manhunting its host, Eddie. Though the producers confirmed nothing, a commenter shared on Reddit.com an extremely detailed plot leak of Venom 3, of course, with a reminder to take each statement with a grain of salt.
Photo from SuperHeroHype
With Joker 2 featuring musical numbers and Venom 3 titled “The Last Dance,” it seems that both our antihero films will feature a tango between good and evil. So, what will you choose to watch first: the symbiote or the clown?
Sparking colorful conversations and making them shine is what Phonak Lumity is all about.
Manila Hearing Aid and Phonak introduce Lumity, their most advanced hearing platform. They are opening the door to “a world where people can create meaningful relationships and enjoy a greater state of social-emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being.”
Lumity, Phonak’s latest offering from its advanced and innovation-focused product line, offers an array of hearing-aid devices with cutting-edge technology. Hearing loss can greatly affect daily activities, but with Lumity, an active lifestyle can continue to be supported with its adaptability to any environment and listening conditions. The newest additions to the Lumity platform are equipped with the advanced Phonak SmartSpeech™ Technology, which prioritizes improved speech understanding and reduced listening effort.
With the evolution of hearing aids and becoming more lifestyle-centric, Lumity includes introducing its newer product Phonak Slim™, which matches the modern-day lifestyle & fashion sense but with state-of-the-art hearing amplification features.
Each Lumity device is fully rechargeable, equipped with the RogerDirect™ feature, and has universal Bluetooth compatibility.
Revolutionizing Conversations with Audéo Lumity’s Immersive Experience
The Audéo Lumity offers hearing aid users a combination of immersive conversations in any listening environment while promoting active lifestyles.
Benefits
State-of-the-art system: AutoSense Sky OS 5.0 and SmartSpeech™ Technology
Robust & secure housing to match your child’s lifestyle with indicator light
Enhanced connectivity for a seamless connection
When paired with Roger, Phonak Sky Lumity allows children to understand speech 32% better than hearing aids alone
Includes Phonak pediatric kit with care products & accessories
It offers a myriad of fun colors; Manila Hearing Aid’s best-selling colors are Beige, Electric Green, Carribean Pirate, and Precious Pink.
Empowering Young Ears: Sky Lumity’s Cutting-Edge Features
The Sky Lumity is Phonak’s flagship pediatric device equipped with the latest Lumity technology to support a child’s hearing & development.
Benefits
State-of-the-art system: AutoSense Sky OS 5.0 and SmartSpeech™ Technology
Robust & secure housing to match your child’s lifestyle with indicator light
Enhanced connectivity for a seamless connection
When paired with Roger, Phonak Sky Lumity allows children to understand speech 32% better than hearing aids alone
Includes Phonak pediatric kit with care products & accessories
It offers a myriad of fun colors; Manila Hearing Aid’s best-selling colors are Beige, Electric Green, Carribean Pirate, and Precious Pink.
Naida Lumity, Unleashing Power and Precision
The Naida Lumity is Phonak’s most powerful and robust hearing device among the Lumity series. It is equipped with the latest technology and features that prioritize speech understanding.
Benefits
Most suitable for severe to profound hearing loss hearing aid users
Powered by the new SmartSpeech™ Technology for enhanced speech clarity & sound quality
Combined with Roger microphones to maximize speech understanding in noise and over distance
Seamless automatic features; Motion Sensor Hearing, Dynamic Noise Cancellation, and more
Allows universal connectivity to different Bluetooth-enabled devices
Offers a myriad of colors; Manila Hearing Aid offers skin tone colors for a more discreet look
Most trusted hearing aid globally in managing profound hearing loss
Enhance Your Auditory Experience with CROS Lumity
The CROS Lumity is best for users with unaidable hearing loss in one ear. This advanced system benefits both CROS and BiCROS hearing aid users.
Benefits
Designed to meet the hearing needs of CROS (unaidable hearing loss in one ear) and BiCROS (good ear also diagnosed with hearing loss) users
Offers improved spatial awareness, thanks to SmartSpeech™ Technology
Improves speech intelligibility by 10dB SNR in diffuse noise compared to unaided
Universal connectivity through Bluetooth & RogerDirect
Compatible with Audéo Lumity, Naida Lumity PR, and Sky Lumity PR
It offers a personalized hearing experience with myPhonak & myPhonak Junior app
It offers a myriad of colors; Manila Hearing Aid offers skin tone colors for a more discreet look.
Elevate Your Style, Enhance Your Hearing: Slim Lumity
Are you looking for a sleeker, more stylish look for your hearing aid device? Say hello to the Phonak Slim Lumity. It’s everything you could ask for in a Lumity device but with a slimmer look.
Benefits
State-of-the-art ergonomic design to match the natural contour of your ears for optimal comfort
Comes with exclusive Phonak Slim Charger with unique left & right compartments
SmartSpeech™ Technology allows improved speech understanding and reduces listening effort
Has directional microphones with Binaural VoiceStream Technology and StereoZoom 2.0 features
Universal connectivity through Bluetooth & RogerDirect
Winner of Hearing Technology Innovator 2023 award for hearing aid design category
Navigate the listening world with confidence and invest in the Lumity hearing-aid line. Phonak Slim™ Lumity and many premium Lumity hearing aids are only available at the 16 Manila Hearing Aid Clinics nationwide. Book your first consultation here.
Phonak Slim™ Lumity and all premium hearing aids of Lumity are exclusively available at ALL 16 Manila Hearing Aid clinics nationwide. Take the first step and book online via manilahearingaid.com.ph/appointment
Craving for the most popular delicacies outside Cebu yet don’t have the time to travel southbound? Then, you’re in luck as the R’Cebu Expo 2024 will feature Cebu’s third district for its latest edition dubbed, “Ang Dalit sa Tersero Distrito”.
Photo from Cebu Provincial Tourism Office Official Facebook Page
Starting March 15 to 17, 2024, at 10AM – 9PM, Robinsons Galleria will be welcoming sellers and entrepreneurs from the third district: Aloguinsan, Asturias, Tuburan, Barili, Balamban, Toledo City, and Pinamungajan. A showcase of delectable food and drinks, along with exquisite handcrafted items will be displayed for purchase at the Level 1, Atrium.
The Humble Town of Aloguinsan
Known for its amazing attractions, such as the infamous Hermit’s Cove and river cruises, Aloguinsan is the municipality to go to for a quick water adventure getaway. Along with its beautiful natural wonders, the municipality also boasts the talents of its inhabitants as their local art scene continues to bloom. Also, they have their own delicacies to entice any foodie to visit their humble town.
Photo from Leny Rose Baguio
Hail the Queen of Bibingka Dawa
Asturias, Cebu, is the municipality where the Bibingka Dawa originated. Unlike the usual bibingka, the Asturian version includes a special ingredient known as the “dawa” or “millet,” which makes the delicacy more delicious and unique in texture. So, get ready to splurge on the “Bibingka Dawa” for this year’s R’Cebu Expo and all the other local treats of Asturias such as their healthy tablea and tasty chocolate desserts.
Photo from Cebu Provincial Tourism Office Official Facebook Page
Beyond the Tallest Falls of Cebu
The Municipality of Barili is well-known for having the tallest falls in Cebu, the Mantayupan Falls, and its dolphin watching activities. And, aside from their majestic and popular refreshing natural wonders, Barili is also home to the famous pinyato and salbaro that you can get at the R’Cebu Expo this Friday.
Where Natural Springs Are
Aside from the natural springs and attractions in Tuburan, Cebu, the municipality is also known as the birthplace of Cebu’s very first homegrown coffee. Merging its exquisite coffee beans and rich culture, coffee lovers will genuinely enjoy their varying caffeinated beverages and homemade crackers.
Photo from Cebu Provincial Tourism Office Official Facebook Page
The Municipality of Sweet & Savory
Balamban, Cebu is known for its artisanal taste which goes from sweet to savory through their crispy Balamban liempo to their Torta Balamban. These foodie treats and the municipality’s well-crafted wooden souvenirs can be bought at the expo.
Delicacies from the Copper City
Home to the country’s largest copper mine company, Toledo City prides itself as one of the fastest economically growing cities in the Philippines. The city is also the origin of the infamous “Puto Lancho” which is a sweet rice cake made from grounded young coconut and sugar.
Photo from Cebu Provincial Tourism Office Official Facebook Page
Municipality of Exquisite Dining Experience
Pinamungajan, Cebu, holds one of the most unique and exquisite dining experiences, specifically a restaurant that offers a dine-by-the-sea experience. Beyond that, they also offer delicious variations of Cebuano special delicacies that you can bring home as a pasalubong to your loved ones.
Photo from Cebu Provincial Tourism Office Official Facebook Page
So, whether you’re hunting for appetizing desserts and snacks or in need of a new fashion statement, the R’Cebu Expo 2024: Ang Dalit sa Tersero Distrito will be the place to go.
Ever wanted to sing, dance, and act on stage, but don’t know where to start your journey as an actor? Then, you’re in for a treat as Cebu’s theater scene continuously expands to cater to varied age ranges, from kids as young as 6 years old to young-at-heart fellas beyond the age of 50.
Nowadays, more and more people are introduced to the magic of theater, especially through Facebook and Instagram reels, and through the lip sync and dance challenges of TikTok. Acting prompts and even voice-over samples are posted on social media for anyone to try their skills. So, if you’re one of those talented “TikTokerists” or simply one who wants to learn more about theaters and plays, then it’s time to bring you into the real world as we dive into the list of theater groups that you can audition for:
2TinCans Philippines, Inc.
Photo from 2TinCans Philippines, Inc. Official Facebook Page
Established in 2014, 2TinCans Philippines Inc. is one of Cebu’s premier theaters that’s committed to entertainment, education, and empowerment. Over the past decade, the company has delivered and performed tons of straight plays and musicals, including their latest performance of “Seussical: The Musical” at the Siddhartha Theater.
Photo from 2TinCans Philippines, Inc. Official Facebook PagePhoto from 2TinCans Philippines, Inc. Official Facebook Page
As part of their March-May quarter program, 2TinCans Philippines Inc. has opened their official enrollment for their 2TinCans Theater Lab Workshops. The program teaches and encourages their trainees, along with their members, how to hone their skills and talents in singing, dancing, acting, and even theater management.
List of 2TinCans Philippines, Inc. Workshops in 2024:
Musical Theater for Kids, Teens, and Adults
Integrated Theater Arts for Kids and Teens
Acting Workshop for Adults
OTHER INFORMATION
Operating Hours: Ayala Mall Central Bloc store hours (10 AM to 9 PM)
Exact Location: 4F, Ayala Malls Central Bloc, Cebu City, Philippines
BY CAR: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and look up Ayala Mall Central Bloc located at I Villa Street, Cebu IT Park, Cebu City, Philippines. Once there, use the entrance near Dunkin Donuts for quicker access. Head to the 4th floor and turn right to a glass-paneled entry with a 2TinCans signage in front.
2. Siddhartha Ensemble Group
Filled with talented coaches and artists who have superb dedication towards theater arts, the Siddhartha Ensemble group is one of the top associations that not only train their members but also opens up opportunities for them to travel abroad to perform on stage.
With the Siddhartha Training Program, the organization aims to sponsor a number of scholars to improve their musical theater skills. In their Facebook announcement, they indicated that they will accept auditionees aged 18 to 30 years old with various experiences, whether you are a newbie in the field of theater or one who has a background of the workings in front and behind the curtains.
Photo from Siddhartha Training Program Official Facebook Page
During the 12-month training period, the selected trainees will undergo music, dance, acting, and performing arts classes for a well-rounded experience; making the soon-to-be artists “triple threats” in the industry. There will also be a 6-month community exposure wherein the artists will be showcasing their talents on different stages and audiences as part of the training.
Photo from Siddhartha Training Program Official Facebook PagePhoto from Siddhartha Training Program Official Facebook Page
So, if you are interested in getting a full scholarship focusing on theater and performing arts, feel free to reach out to the Siddhartha Ensemble group and send your auditions in.
International Shows Performed By The Siddhartha Ensemble:
Star & Cloud: The Musical – Performed in Taiwan after a successful World Premier last February 3 and 4 of this year, 2024 in Cebu.
Siddhartha: The Musical – Shown across the globe including an Off-Broadway performance in Manhattan, New York, a show in London, England, and several other countries around Africa, Asia, and Oceania.
Exact Location: Guang Ming College – Cebu, Chu Un Temple Drive, Englis V. Rama Ave., Cebu City, Philippines
BY COMMUTE: From Metro Colon, take the 06C jeepney since it’s the only one with a direct route that stops in front of Guang Ming College so you can tell the driver to drop you off at the location. Then, climb to the top of the sloped entrance where a guardhouse can be seen. You can inquire which building you have to go to for the theater program.
BY CAR: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and look up Guang Ming College. Ask the guard at the gate entrance about your intent to audition for the program so he can guide you to the right office.
3. Teatro de San Pedro Calungsod
Embracing the religious hearts of the Cebuano and elevating evangelization are the goals of Teatro de San Pedro Calungsod (TSPC). For their 1st and 2nd quarter wrap-up, the organization will be hosting shows with both their new and existing cast members.
Photo from Teatro de San Pedro Calungsod Official Facebook Page
This March 2024, a series of plays will be performed by the thespians of the TSPC within one production entitled, “Mga Dula sa Gugma”. Following the series will be the organization’s production of “Laptop” for the upcoming 1st Cebu International Theater Festival on July to be held at the Marcelo Fernan Press Center at Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu City, Philippines.
Photo from Teatro de San Pedro Calungsod Official Facebook PagePhoto from Teatro de San Pedro Calungsod Official Facebook Page
In addition, Teatro de San Pedro Calungsod also successfully launched a production of “Paklay Para Canta Misa” in Korea last September 2023 as the first-ever full-length Cebuano play shown in an international theater festival.
Exact Location: Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod, SM Seaside City Cebu Complex, South Road Properties, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
BY CAR: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and look up San Pedro Calungsod Chapel. You will be routed to the South Road Properties area where the main office of the organization is located.
There are still tons of theater groups out there that you can choose from. And if you’re not accepted on the first audition, then try again for the next season or visit other theater companies. You’ll never know, maybe the role or slot that you’ll land in will be the big break that you are waiting for. Break a leg, fellow thespian!
