Millions of sardines washed up on the Coast of Ginatilan, Sitio Guilungsuran, Barangay Poblacion. According to Floramie Dacillo, this phenomenon happened for four consecutive days. The first beaching happened on February 11, up until February 14.
The coastline turned silver and fishermen flocked to the beach for a great catch that didn’t require a lot of effort. Videos resurfaced online, even reaching the international community on Twitter.
Tweet from @PicturesFoIder on X
Foreigners put their two scents regarding the phenomenon, saying how these occurrences are inexplicable and fascinating. Some are saying that this could be a bad omen preceding a tragedy.
Tweet from @tradingMaxiSL on X
In true Filipino fashion, locals also commented on the viral video, preaching repentance as things like this are characteristic to the Lord’s return. Some thanked the Lord for the blessings because of the profit this can give to local fishermen.
However, this begs the question; why is this actually happening?
The answer is simple, and it is definitely not a bad omen or a sign of the Last Judgment. Instead, this is a result of upwelling which occurs when cold water rises to the surface of the ocean. Winds blowing across the ocean surface push water away. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, “Water then rises up from beneath the surface to replace the water that was pushed away. This process is known as upwelling.”
Photo from National Ocean Service – NOAA
This is a perfectly natural occurrence, and areas where upwelling is common are usually good fishing grounds.
While it’s an interesting phenomenon to witness, it just so happens that the reason behind it is boring old science. Phew.
To take a break from the stressful world, we sometimes need to literally touch the grass, sleep with the sand beneath our backs as the wind lulls us to sleep. These mundane things help us ground ourselves to reality.
Photo from Pearl Beach Camp Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pearl Beach Camp Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pearl Beach Camp Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pearl Beach Camp Official Facebook Page
One of the best places that could ground us back into our reality is Pearl Beach Camp. Located in Medellin, Cebu, Pearl Beach Camp offers a huge campground with a front beach view. You can also bring and cook your food without a corkage fee!
Photo from Pearl Beach Camp Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pearl Beach Camp Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pearl Beach Camp Official Facebook Page
For campers with furbabies, you don’t need to worry about bringing them with you (or not) because Pearl Beach Camp is pet-friendly too! And if you don’t want to miss the world while you’re on a break, they also have a wifi you can connect to.
Photo from Pearl Beach Camp Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pearl Beach Camp Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pearl Beach Camp Official Facebook Page
Beyond camping grounds, they also offer some accommodation places you can stay in as stated below together with their other rates.
CAMPING ONLY RATE (overnight)
Adult – P250
Kids – P100
If you plan to bring your own vehicle, Pearl Beach Camp asks for a parking fee.
Car Park – P100
Motor Park – P50
DAY USE (7 am – 6 pm)
Adult – P100
Kids – P50
COTTAGE AND RENTAL RATES
Cabana Hut: P750
Canopy Tent: P500
Tables: P100 per table
Chairs: P50 per chair
Griller: P50 per piece
ROOM RATES
Car Camping – P250 per adult, P100 per 6 to 12 years old kids (6 years old and below are free)
Family House – P8,500 per night (6 years old and below are free)
good for 10 persons
Includes air conditioning
Includes Kitchen w/ stove and refrigerator
Includes Set of utensils
Includes Private toilet & bath
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Note: A 50% downpayment is a requirement and the remaining balance should be settled 2 days before the check-in date. Cash payments on the check-in date are not accepted.
Operating hours: 8 AM to 5 PM
Check-in time (for overnight stay): 2 PM
Check-out time (for overnight stay): 12NN (the next day)
Exact location: Lahug, Medellin, Northern Cebu; near Kawit – 3 to 3.5 hours from Cebu City
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound for Medellin. Tell the driver to drop you off at Quick Stop. From there, you can ride a motorcycle going to Pearl Beach Camp in Daanlungsod.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Pearl Beach Camping” in Medellin.
What comes with keeping up with all our multitudinous roles and responsibilities is the stress. And so, rest is also necessary to keep up our heads with the things that matter most. However, choosing the most tranquil place to go to is another stressor. But I know just the perfect place for you and it’s one bus ride away from the city!
Photo from Pangeas Beach Resort Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pangeas Beach Resort Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pangeas Beach Resort Official Facebook Page
Whether you find peace in your solitude, clear your head better with some company, or just want to have a moment with your family and friends, Pangeas Beach Resort can give that to you and more!
Located one hour away from the city, this resort is tucked in the rich soil of Liloan and is near the shore. The resort is also adorned with lustrous greens that would make you feel like you are lullabied by Mother Earth to take a rest. If you don’t want to take a dip in the beach, the resort also has a swimming pool as an alternative option.
Photo from Pangeas Beach Resort Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pangeas Beach Resort Official Facebook PagePhoto from Pangeas Beach Resort Official Facebook Page
To enjoy these peaceful luxuries, the resort asks for an affordable entrance fee per person!
They also have affordable cottages for family and friends! Or if you wish to make the most out of your short vacation the resort also has an overnight stay you could take advantage of for as low as P2,500.
Below are the accommodation rates that you must take note of:
Cottage Rates
Table (4 pax) – P200 per day
Single Cottage (4 pax) – P250 per day
Cottage (8 pax) – P400 per day
Cottage (9-10) – P500 per day
Cottage (30) – P2,500 per day
Overnight Rates
Standard Room – P2,500
Good for 2 pax
Breakfast Included
Family Room – P3,000
Good for 3 pax
Breakfast included
Double Standard Room – P4,000
Good for 4 pax
Breakfast included
Barkada Room – P10,000
Good for 12 pax
Without breakfast
FEES AND OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Entrance Fee: P150 per adult (Access to swimming pool, beach, lounge area, shower area)
Operating hours: 8 AM to 5 PM
Check-in time (for overnight stay): 2 PM
Check-out time (for overnight stay): 12NN (the next day)
OTHER INFORMATION
Corkage Fee
P20 per bottle for all beverage
P200, Lechon corkage
For extra beds (for overnight stay), P500 per head for an additional bed.
Exact Location: Pagutlan Suso, Tayud, Liloan, Cebu — 1-1.5 hour away from the city.
BY BUS: Ride any 25 or 27 jeepneys going to Liloan from the SM City Cebu Terminal or you can ride a v-hire going to Liloan from the SM City Cebu Terminal. Drop off at the church in Tayud Liloan where you can find a lot of tricycles. Ask around who can drive you to Pangeas.
BY CAR: If you’re driving your car, just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Pangeas Beach Resort”. Parking space is available.
In every nook and cranny of Philippine streets, there lies at least one sari-sari store.
According to the statistics report by the analytics startup, Packworks, there are at least 270,000 sari-sari stores nationwide. In the same report, they found that the sales earned by sari-sari stores increased by P8 billion in 2023. This is a 21.2% increase from the P6.6 billion sales in 2022.
Photo from Wikipedia
Similarly, the increase in sales is also directly proportional to the transactions of sari-sari transactions that reached 8.2 million in 2023; in 2022, the sari-sari store transactions were recorded to have climbed up to 7.2 million.
INSTANT PRODUCTS GARNERED HIGHEST SALES
Among all products, Packworks recorded that instant noodles, ready-to-heat products, recipe mix, and ready-to-cook goods are the products with high sales.
Photo from Inquirer Business
RURAL AREAS, HIGH SALES
It was also reported that places in the Philippines have the highest sales, especially the suburban and large rural areas in the Luzon areas.
The P8 Billion sales were led by Region IV-A which garnered P2.83 billion. This is followed by Region II having P1.82 billion sales. The third region with the highest sales is Region III with P1.58 billion.
Photo from One Balete
Meanwhile, Philippine urban especially the National Capital Region (NCR) came out fifth to bring the highest sales with P1 billion. Cebu comes sixth with P900 million in sales.
The regions with the lowest recorded sales are the Cordillera Administrative Region having P90 million, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao with around P3 million.
NOT CAUSED BY INFLATION
Contrary to assumptions, the recorded higher sales of sari-sari stores were not caused by inflation. Packworks clarified that it is driven by trends and major occasions such as the Holy Weeks and Christmas season.
Photo from Reuters
Also, Packworks added that sari-sari stores in rural and agricultural areas often gather higher sales because the people around these areas are often dependent on widely and easily accessible sari-sari stores than grocery establishments.
POV: You are riding a Kalesa to go from one museum to another on a starry night
That’s what Gabii sa Kabilin gives you!
Photo from Spot.ph
Contrary to popular opinion, Metropolitan Cebu is not only about the hustle and bustle, tall towers, or malls. The city is also rich in cultural heritage and history.
And guess what? Gabii sa Kabilin 2024 is about to kickstart! In a Facebook post on Valentine’s Day, February 14, they announced this year’s Gabii sa Kabilin with the theme, “Beloved Bisaya.” which will be on May 10, 2024. The theme is explained as an inspiration from the Jesuit missionary, Francisco Ignacio Alcina.
Photo from Gabii sa Kabilin Official Facebook Page
“This year’s theme “Beloved Bisaya” takes inspiration from the Jesuit missionary, Francisco Ignacio Alcina, SJ, who spent many years with the natives of the Visayas Islands, whom he would call “my beloved Bisayans” while documenting the local Bisayan culture.”
HOW GABII SA KABILIN CAME TO BE
An initiative by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) in 2007, Gabii sa Kabilin (or “a night of heritage.”) aims to preserve Cebu’s rich culture and heritage. In a Facebook post, Gabii sa Kabilin also aims to encourage the public especially the Cebuanos to visit museums.
Photo from Gabii sa Kabilin Official Facebook PagePhoto from Gabii sa Kabilin Official Facebook Page
ACTIVITIES IN GABII SA KABILIN
From 6 PM – 12 AM, guests can visit at least 20 participating museums around Cebu primarily in the metro. On top of that, participating museums from neighboring cities such as Lapu-Lapu and Talisay can also be visited.
Photo from Gabii sa Kabilin Official Facebook PagePhoto from Gabii sa Kabilin Official Facebook PagePhoto from Gabii sa Kabilin Official Facebook Page
Each museum showcases works from historical to contemporary artists. Dance performances and cultural presentations are also presented in certain museums such as Casa Gorordo Museum which allows guests to immerse themselves in the experience of Cebu’s heritage and culture.
In the previous Gabii sa Kabilin in 2023, below are some of the participating museums and heritage.
Archdiocesan Shrine of San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish
Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
Basilica Minore del Santo Niño Museum
Cebu Archdiocesan Shrine of Jesus Nazareno Heritage of Faith Museum
Cebu City Museum
Yap-San Diego Ancestral House
Fort San Pedro
Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Temple
Mandaue City Presidencia
Museo Parian sa Sugbo – 1730 Jesuit House
Museo Sugbo
Museo de Talisay
Palm Grass Cebu Heritage Hotel
Sr. Ma Delia Coronel Folklife Museum
Sugbu Chinese Heritage Museum
University of the Philippines Cebu
University of San Carlos Museum
University of Southern Philippines Foundation Rizaliana Museum
HOW TO GET TICKETS
To participate in this year’s upcoming Gabii sa Kabilin, you need to purchase tickets. However, ticket costs and where to purchase them have not been announced yet.
But last year, regular tickets cost P300 inclusive of free shuttle service across sites and a complimentary tartanilla ride. They also offered a P200 worth-ticket exclusive of free shuttle service and tartanilla ride. Students, PWDs, and senior citizens can enjoy a P20 discount for their tickets.
To get updated on ticket selling and important announcements for Gabii sa Kabilin, you may visit and follow Gabii sa Kabilin Facebook Page.
Art allows us to free ourselves from the limits of reality and the world.
Collectively, the Art Fair Philippines 2024 highlighted various art forms at The Link Carpark in Makati last February 16 to 18, 2024.
ArtFairPH 2024 Exhibitor: Orange Project (@orangeproject_ph)ArtFairPH/Projects 2024 | Karen H. Montinola Selection: “Ceremonials” by Gean Brix Garcia
From February 16th and 18th, the organizer and team behind Art Fair PH showcased the creative artworks from both the local and international artist scene, including the topmost Philippine galleries such as Silverlens, Altromondo, and Modeka, among others; exhibitors from Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam also presented their works.
Here are some of the things you must look out for the entire duration of the art fair exhibition.
Pambabae Exhibition
This special exhibit highlighted the contribution of Filipina women modernist artists. The works featured in this exhibition were from the years 1969 to 1989 and featured modernists such as Ivi Avellana Cosio, Ileana Lee, Nelfa Querubin, Evelyn Collantes, Phyllis Zaballero, and Lilian Hwang.
Photo from @artfairph on Instagram
Karen H. Montinola (KHM) Selection 10th Anniversary Show
Art Fair Philippines also featured the 10th anniversary of the Karen H. Montinola (KHM) Selection. This is a grant given by the Montinola family for emerging Filipino artists. Among all artists, the grant this year was awarded to Gean Brix Garcia.
An exhibit of other grant awardees was also highlighted as part of the celebration. Curated by Norman Crisologo, the grant awardees since 2014 Pio Abad, Mike Adrao (2015), Mac Valdezco (2016), Mark Valenzuela (2017), Alvin Zafra (2018), Liv Vinluan (2019), Carlo Villafuerte (2021), Melvin Guirhem (2022), and Faye Abantao (2023) were featured.
Photo from @artfairph on Instagram
Film at the Art Fair PH 2024
Art Fair PH has more things in store because not only did they feature artworks but they also showcased films such as NO SHOWING. Curated by filmmaker Moira Lang and co-presented by Archivo Gallery and Club Kino, NO SHOWING serves as an avenue for filmmakers and film enthusiasts to share their passion for film and discuss the current filmmaking scene in the Philippines.
Hence, It should be noted that this is NOT a film screening event because this event is a mere avenue for film conversations over any beverage preferred.
Photo from Art Fair Philippines Official Website
Talks at the Art Fair PH 2024
Except for the discussion about the love for film, other talks are also highlighted in Art Fair PH from creative juices to the collaboration of the arts and science.
Beyond showcasing Art Galleries, Film Discussions, and Talks on the matter of art, Performance Arts was also presented in the three-day art event such as ballet performances. Book signings were also experienced by the guests of the event by writers (Ran Manansala) and book illustrators (Doktor Karayom and Jose T. Gamboa).
Photo from @artfairph on InstagramPhoto from @artfairph on InstagramPhoto from @artfairph on InstagramPhoto from @artfairph on Instagram
Celebrating the various forms of art in Art Fair 2024 manifests the immense significance of all different types of art. And denies the popular concept that it can only be pinned against the wall. Art Fair PH made art as a form of experience and art is made from mundane things such as dancing or talking about one passion and finding critical means for its improvement.
The Greek parliament has now passed a groundbreaking law, being the first orthodox Christian country to legalize same-sex marriage. The landmark decision is definitely a significant victory for human rights in the country, shifting it towards a more inclusive and progressive society.
Photo from Daily Sabah
176 out of 300 lawmakers voted in favor for the legalization of same-sex marriage in the country on Thursday, following months of intense public political discourses that reflect majority of the citizens’ commitment to human rights. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis himself affirmed the outcome, labeling it as a “milestone for human rights” as Greece is dedicated to being a democratic nation that protects its stakeholders.
Same-sex couples in countries that do not recognize their marriage not only suffer from the lack of ability to get wed in and of itself, but also from the inability to legally adopt children. The legislation addresses this very issue, as same-sex couples now receive full parental recognition for their adoption. This is a huge shift from the previous legal framework that only gave this right to heterosexual couples.
Photo from Euractiv
However, surrogacy, similar to many nations in the world, still remains in question as the ethicality of it is still debatable. Prime Minister Mitsotakis mentioned how surrogacy is harmful to women as it turns them into “child-producing machines on demand.” Debates regarding the commodification of childbirth are at an all-time-high, however, the legislation still recognizes the status of an existing offspring, whether they are born or adopted via surrogacy abroad.
Photo from European Parliament – European Union
This is a huge win for the LGBTQ+ community, but considering how Greece is an orthodox country, many including the influential Greek Orthodox Church voiced out their opposition against the decision.
On the other side of the clash, X users celebrate this and are responding to homophobic sentiments, joking about how the ancient Greeks were very much gender fluid, and practiced homosexuality.
In a landscape-defining moment for the aviation sector, San Miguel Corporation wins the 15-year contract bid to manage NAIA. The responsibility was labeled as “upgrading one of the worst airports in the world.” This was announced by Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista on Friday.
Photo from PortCalls
The prestigious project was won over by the SMC SAP & Co. Consortium by offering a revenue-sharing proposal with a whopping 82.16% share extended to the government. With this, SMC is to make an upfront payment of P30 billion to the government, along with annual payments of P2 billion throughout the concession period. Other competitors were the GMR Consortium and the Manila International Airport Consortium, which were eventually bypassed by SMC’s bid.
Photo from Nikkei Asia
The efficiency of a Public-Private Partnership is definitely a note highlighted in this project. Transportation Undersecretary Timothy John Batan mentioned how the entire project development took shape in just one year, from the transaction advisory agreement with the Asian Development bank to the issuance of the notice of award.
What entails this upgrade is the reutilization of passenger terminals and vital airside facilities such as runways, airfield lighting, and aircraft parking areas. Apart from that, it also aims to enhance the overall travel experience by facilitating seamless intermodal transfers within the terminal. Improvements like increased parking availability, reliable airport facilities, and shorter wait times can be expected by passengers from this project. All of this, led by SMC, is initially to transpire on a 15-year concession period, and if necessary, will be extended by 10 years.
Photo from Hotels.comPhoto from The Star
The project has received optimism and support from government officials like Senator Grace Poe, who acknowledged the transformative potential it can bestow to NAIA. SMC-SAP & Company likewise declared its commitment, guaranteeing utmost collaboration and communication with the government and stakeholders to upraise the national airport to international standards.
Cebu City, February 15th — Off-WhiteTM is happy to announce that Virgil Abloh’s legacy is celebrated yet again in the Philippines, by the launch of Off-WhiteTM Cebu in NUSTAR Resort and Casino.
Opening to the public on 18th February 2024, Off-WhiteTM Cebu will be the third branch of the beloved brand in the country following the ones in Greenbelt and Rockwell. To celebrate this, Off-WhiteTM invited several of Cebu’s stylish crowd for a night of fashion, music and great time.
About Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh™
Established in 2013, Off-WhiteTM is defining the grey area between black and white as a color. Under the brand name, seasonal men’s and women’s clothing collections, objects, furniture, and publications are articulating a current cultural vision. Collections are embedded in a recurrent backstory, with an emphasis on creating garments that have an identity by design. With a design studio based in Milan, Italy, the label harnesses the country’s history and craftsmanship, yet offers a global perspective on design and trends. With a clear vision of splicing the reality of how clothes are worn with the artistic expression of high-fashion, creative director and designer Virgil Abloh explored concepts in the realm of youth culture in the contemporary context.
To be frugal while on a vacation means you are setting your priorities, and you can start with affordable accommodation!
Oslob is one of the renowned and most visited tourist destinations in Southern Cebu not only by Cebuano locals but also by tourists inside and outside the country. This leaves an impression that because of high demand, Oslob is an expensive place to vacation.
But with Alfonsa Tent Ground around, you don’t need to worry about thousands-worth of accommodation as you bask yourself in the warmth of the Oslob sun!
Photo from Alfonsa TENT Ground on FacebookPhoto from Alfonsa TENT Ground on FacebookPhoto from Alfonsa TENT Ground on FacebookPhoto from Alfonsa TENT Ground on Facebook
However, it is also important to note that Alfonsa Tent Ground is a beachside setup offering a comfortable tent place.
Not only does their location make you unwind from the busy hustle and bustle of the city, but their accommodation rates also ensure that you live your best beach life without splurging.
Photo from Alfonsa TENT Ground on FacebookPhoto from Alfonsa TENT Ground on FacebookPhoto from Alfonsa TENT Ground on FacebookPhoto from Alfonsa TENT Ground on FacebookPhoto from Alfonsa TENT Ground on Facebook
Below are the room rates you can choose from based on your budget:
For those who want to book accommodation, Alfonsa Tent Ground requires advance booking which will be confirmed upon full payment. Once paid, upon cancellation, payment is non-refundable.
FEES AND OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Entrance Fee: P30 (6 AM – 6 PM) and P60.00 (6PM-12NN)
BY BUS: Go to Cebu City South Bus Terminal and ride on a bus bound for Oslob. Tell the driver to drop you off at Luka Coffee Oslob. From there Alfonsa Tent Ground is only a minute’s walk. To make sure you may also ask the locales
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to Luka Coffee Oslob which is beside Alfonsa Tent Ground.
