If you want to immerse in Chinese delicacies—especially Northern China’s famous tanghulu, you don’t need to fly to China because the ever-TikTok famous candy is finally in the Queen City of the South!
Photo from Rove.me
For as low as P100, you can finally taste one of China’s best, the tanghulu, thanks to “Strawberry Station Cebu.”
Photo from Strawberry Station – Cebu Official Facebook PagePhoto from Strawberry Station – Cebu Official Facebook PagePhoto from Strawberry Station – Cebu Official Facebook Page
But if you’re not just curious about what Tanghulus taste like, and are also a normal strawberry foodie, “Strawberry Station Cebu” still got you covered!
Photo from Strawberry Station – Cebu Official Facebook PagePhoto from Strawberry Station – Cebu Official Facebook PagePhoto from Strawberry Station – Cebu Official Facebook Page
Below are their food options and their corresponding prices:
The ongoing construction of the Divine Mercy Mountain for Prayer and Healing in Barangay Sirao, Cebu City lit reactions from the online community when CDN Digital posted pictures of monkeys wandering near the site. How do we balance spirituality, development, and environmental conservation?
Photo courtesy of Jun Alcover
Cebu City Councilor Pastor Alcover Jr. discovered the project on February 10, and learned that the construction is owned by Elena Juntilla, ongoing for nearly three years. Alcover comments that the religious site will become a new tourist spot, hence, benefiting locals like habal-habal drivers. Elena labels the project as “her gift to the community”.
Photo courtesy of Jun Alcover
Aside from the online community, Father Loreto Jaque also contrasts this enthusiasm. “Until when will we realize that spirituality is not just about constantly building statues where we kneel or recite the rosary, but rather, it should also be about caring for and appreciating the environment of non-human beings, like these monkeys,” he says on a Facebook post. The ongoing construction threatens the monkeys’ natural habitat, and since pictures started to resurface online, many raised questions regarding the ethical implications of putting religious structures before environmental conservation, including Father Jaque himself.
Photo courtesy of Jun AlcoverPhoto courtesy of Jun Alcover
Social media users are giving their two cents on the topic, saying that we already have enough and maybe too many tourist attractions in our area, much more religious structures. Some are saying that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) should look into this project and intervene.
As a response, Councilor Alcover acknowledges the disadvantages of the project, but goes on to say that the intention was never to harm the environment or displace the monkeys. He assures everyone that there is a caretaker in the construction that feeds the monkeys.
However, what happens to them after the construction is over? How will the monkeys be protected, and what measures will be taken to still care for them when the site is swarmed by tourists? The sustainability of what Councilor Alcover responded remains in question, and many continue to raise the importance of respecting and preserving the local ecosystem.
As someone who either wasn’t born yet or still didn’t have consciousness when Ayala had that pond layout instead of The Terraces, I haven’t witnessed it transform into something I am now familiar with today. Now, Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) is set to embark on a redevelopment, allocating ₱13 billion for four of its shopping districts: Glorietta and Greenbelt in Makati, TriNoma in Quezon City, and Ayala Center Cebu. The project starts this year and is envisioned to span over two years.
GloriettaGreenbeltTrinoma
ALI’s Senior Vice President, Mariana Zobel de Ayala, emphasizes the needs and preferences of their customer base. This redevelopment aims to bring something new, addressing their target market’s evolving expectations. Their focus now is to improve facades, navigation, and strategize better to engage with customers.
Similar to how the pond layout turned into what we know today as The Terraces, this renovation is to refresh the look and feel of the malls mentioned. ALI wants to utilize outdoor spaces to make it more accommodating by reconsidering shading and access points in order to create a seamless integration between the malls’ indoor and outdoor spaces.
With this, ALI guarantees customers that the renovation does not mean a halt in the malls’ operation. The development will happen in segments to make sure that the malls are still accessible.
We are still yet to see the tangible result of ALI’s endeavors, and what technological advancements they are to integrate to our overall experience. As Cebuanos, this is something to look forward to in the next two years for a mall that’s so intricately woven within our lives, with so many of our memories tied to it. With this project, Ayala sets new benchmarks for retail experiences, grounding itself as one of the pioneers in their industry.
We all deserve a break from our hectic lives and most especially from our fast-paced surroundings.
Photo from Paharuhay Campsite Official Facebook PagePhoto from Paharuhay Campsite Official Facebook Page
But who said breaks also need to break pockets?
You don’t need to worry because the North offers breaks but pocket-friendly rates! With just as low as P200, you can already enjoy a day of peace here at Paharuhay Campsite!
Photo from Paharuhay Campsite Official Facebook PagePhoto from Paharuhay Campsite Official Facebook Page
Paharuhay Campsite offers you the best place to escape the chaos and enjoy the serenity of nature.
Below are their rates and their inclusions:
Matahom shared campground – P200/pax
Including Free breakfast
located at the upper part of the campsite
Must bring your tents
Photo from Paharuhay Campsite Official Website
Mahogany Grove shared campground – P200/pax
Including Free breakfast
located at the lower part of the campsite
Must bring your tents
Photo from Paharuhay Campsite Official Website
Tiny Cabin – P1,200 (3 pax)
Including free breakfast
Queen-sized full bedding set with pillow and blankets included
Mosquito Net also included
Photo from Paharuhay Campsite Official Website
Malinawon Teepee – ₱2,300 (2 pax)
Can also accommodate up to 4 pax maximum for P2,700
Sleeping mat provided for 2 more extra persons (add-on charges for pillow and blanket)
Toilet and shower rooms are provided per teepee.
Shared kitchen for cooking.
Food can be pre-ordered for hustle-free dining
Photo from Paharuhay Campsite Official Website
Paharuhay Peak Exclusive Camp – ₱3,000 (10 pax)
Free breakfast
360 degrees view of mountains and sea; perfect view for sunrise and sunset
Fully Equipped kitchen free of butane stove, rice cooker, refrigerator, pots and pans, plates and bowls, utensils, glasses, water dispenser, and 1 gallon of water.
Free use of freshwater pool and treehouse
Campers bring their tent
Photo from Paharuhay Campsite Official Website
Lulinghayaw Glamping Cabin (NEW) – ₱6,000
Including free breakfast for 8 pax
An overlooking balcony set-up for a unique chilling experience facing the mountains
Dedicated toilet/shower room
Full access to a shared kitchen with cookware, utensils, and ref
With bonfire place
Access to mini-pool
Nice view spots within the campsite (native swing, view deck, and giant hammock)
Hiking trail (downhill bike trail is also available)
Photo from Paharuhay Campsite Official Website
To confirm the booking of your desired room and camp package, they require a 50% down payment.
Want to know more information about Paharuhay Campsite?
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride a bus going to Tabogon. You can tell the driver to drop you off at the Paharuhay Campsite iCentre along Central Nautical Hwy. From there, you can ride a motorcycle inside the Paharuhay Campsite.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze and set your destination to Paharuhay Campsite, Central Nautical Hwy, Cebu City.
To vote is not only a right that Filipino citizens enjoy, it is also a responsibility. However, there are those people who wish to vote but cannot because they are not able to register.
Photo from The Guardian Nigeria
As a solution, the Commission on Elections Mandaue implemented the “Register Anywhere Program (RAP).”
This program allows non-Mandaue individuals to register in Mandaue for the upcoming 2025 midterm elections, especially for those individuals whose provinces necessitate a boat or plane as a mode of transportation.
Anna Fleur Gujilde, the Election Officer of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Mandaue said on Monday, February 12, 2024, that the Comelec plans to launch a pilot registration for the Register Anywhere Program (Rap) on February 27 at the University of San Carlos Talamban Campus and February 28 at Cebu Doctor’s University.
Photo from Omar Sharif Dilangalen Mamalinta on FacebookPhoto from Omar Sharif Dilangalen Mamalinta on Facebook
However, the only individuals allowed to participate in the RAP Pilot Testing are the students and school personnel in the said universities. However, Guijede said that the program might be launched in their office for the public.
The pilot testing is said to be attended by officials from COMELEC offices in other provinces such as Cebu and Lapu-Lapu. Guijada also said that there might also be other RAP locations announced for the program.
As Fred’s Place describes itself, it is where every moment feels like home, yet better. A lot of people’s idea of spending their time when there’s a long weekend is going to the beach. Where better to go than Bantayan?
Photo from Fred’s Place – Santa Fe Official Facebook Page
Of course, when planning a trip, expenses are always the most important. Lucky for you, Fred’s Place offers very affordable prices with tons of inclusions.
Accommodations
Fred’s Place offers a comfortable place to stay for you to rest and stop by from time to time as you explore what Bantayan boasts. With simple beds, clean sheets, and an airconditioned room, you’re guaranteed to have a homely stay that’s not too hard on the pockets.
Photo from Fred’s Place – Santa Fe Official Facebook Page
The rooms available are spacious and clean, with amenities that will leave you little to no space for worry.
The inclusions are the following:
Fully Air-conditioned rooms
With bathroom & toilet
Beach Access
Free Parking
Free Wi-fi access
Advantage in Proximity
Aside from their comfortable and affordable accommodations, Fred’s Place is also one of the best places to stay in when you’re in Bantayan. The beach is only 10 meters away from the hostel, so you don’t really have to travel that far to have a swim if you’re out of things to do for your itinerary. Furthermore, it is close to establishments nearby.
Photo from Fred’s Place – Santa Fe Official Facebook PagePhoto from Fred’s Place – Santa Fe Official Facebook Page
Right beside it is also a restaurant known for their pizza. If you’re not feeling like taking another trip after a long day, a short walk can already give you a full stomach!
Free Motorcycle Use
When you’re touring or having a vacation somewhere you don’t call home, the most convenient thing to do to save money is to rent a motorcycle. Taking a tricycle would be too pricey due to the amount of trips you’ll have to take to transfer from one place to another.
With that being said, you’d still have to search for establishments renting motorcycles, and bargaining with them for a considerable price. All of that would be non-existent at Fred’s Place.
With a booking for 2 nights and 3 days, you get free use of their motorcycle, alleviating you of the time, energy, and money to be spent if you had to rent. It really can’t be better than this!
Photo from Fred’s Place – Santa Fe Official Facebook Page
For your trip to Bantayan, make sure to check out Fred’s Place!
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
ROOM RATES: (or COTTAGE FEES)
For 2 nights and 3 days: ₱2,828 per head
For 1 night: ₱1,100 (price may vary depending on where you book as service fees may be charged in addition)
The Kansas City Chiefs have always been under the spotlight with their performance in the NFL. However, it is undeniable that their presence and impact reached a separate demographic, and to say the least, an even wider audience since Taylor Swift’s romance with the Chiefs’ tight end, Travis Kelce. As girlies and boys who are here for #TheCulture, another subject brought to attention is a member of the Chiefs who is of Filipino heritage, Nikko Remigio.
Photo from The Topeka Capital-JournalPhoto from CBS Sports
Nikko Remigio proudly carries his Filipino heritage. As he said, “I love being Filipino: The family dynamic, the music, the dancing and the get-togethers—where you know there’s going to be like a thousand trays of lumpia and massive pots of rice to go with pounds of meat and fried fish—and the next morning you know we’re going to heat those leftovers up, fry an egg and make that a Filipino breakfast.”
Photo from Kollective Hustle
The 24-year-old wide receiver’s father is a second-generation Filipino immigrant whose roots trace back to Iloilo and Muntinlupa. His mother, on the other hand, is a half-black and half-white woman from Southern California. With his mixed heritage, he talked about the struggles he faced in predominantly white settings, especially in the teams he has played for in the news engine of the University of California, Berkeley where he played college football.
In the same article, Remigio expresses his love and acknowledgement for his Filipino heritage, reflecting on a trip to the Philippines with his family as he shared his experience in connecting with his heritage and finally getting to see this side of his cultural ancestry which is a lot different than the environment he had grown used to in America.
Photo from AtoZ Sports
Remigio moved to Fresno State University as a graduate transfer in 2022 after being in Berkeley. During his campaign, he remained undrafted. But soon after, his performance caught the attention of the Kansas City Chiefs, who were the reigning Super Bowl champions at the time. This led to him earning a spot in the team’s training camp. Remigio debuted in a match against the New Orleans Saints, in which he was able to show his prowess.
Photo from Kansas City Star
In August 2023, Remigio’s run hit a roadblock when he dislocated his shoulder, placing him on injured reserve. However, he remains optimistic about eventually returning to the field. Both Chiefs fans and Filipino supporters eagerly await to see Nikko Remigio in his element, returning to the field, his natural habitat.
Polarizing answers are often encountered when people are asked about receiving flowers. For others, to be given flowers makes them feel loved. Meanwhile, on the practical side of the spectrum is the amount of money that needs to be spent for it despite its ephemerality.
But when it comes to flower ephemerality, there have been types of flowers that do not wilt. These kinds of flowers have been around the internet, especially since Valentine’s Day is fast approaching.
MADE FROM SWEAT AND CALLOUSES
In the hustle and bustle, sweat, and vendors calling for your name to buy, there lies a section you’d mistake for a flower garden. But unlike flower gardens basked in the warmth of the sun or showered with love by the rain, the ones found in the Carbon Market are picked and chosen by calloused hands—proof of hard work, from the vendors with love to buyers who love.
EXTRAORDINARY FLOWERS
Stumbling upon stall after stall of flowers in the middle of the Carbon Market is the sole flower vendor who sells eternal flowers—the kind of flowers that never die like how love never does. Bouquets in rainbow, minimalist, monochrome, and maximalist styles for as low as P150 filled Jenny Bonghanoy’s stall inside Carbon Market in Cebu City.
What makes her stall stand out among others is the flower display, which is made of soap, satin, recycled leaves, cotton, and paper. The materials her flowers are made of make them bloom forever.
In a personal interview with Sugbo.ph, Bonghanoy answered that despite the flowers being artificial, there are still people who buy, and some even repurchase.
“Nang-order man sila karon nga year. maka-ingon sila nga, “ay wa jud siya nadaot. nakita ra gyud namo. Nadecorate pa gyud namo. nareuse pa gyud namo. Mao na” mao nay nakanindot sa ani,” Bonhanoy reminisced her favorite memory selling artificial flowers.
ARTIFICIAL FLOWERS ARE MERE FAKE FLOWERS
Artificial flowers are often perceived as fake or, worse, ingenuine. However, for flower sellers like Bonghanoy, artificial flowers mean long-lasting, which is one reason she has pursued selling artificial flowers since she started selling them on Valentine’s Day last year.
“Naa man guy uban nga “Ay, kani artificial” dili ni siya artificial. Pariha aning soap, soap rose, pero’g imo siyang i-kuan, molong last man gud siya. Naa man guy uban nga pang lifetime gali siya nga kuan, magamit pud nimo siya.”
Before selling these kinds of flowers, Bonghanoy has been selling fresh flowers. And even up to now, she’s still selling fresh flowers together with the artificial flowers.
As she prioritizes artificial flowers, she is also preparing her stocks in preparation for the influx of demand for this fast–approaching Valentine’s based on the positive turnout last Valentine’s.
“Satisfaction sa customer. nga masatisfy sila either kani lang, ingon lang atong mga buwak, mga dried lang dili jud siya fresh ba. Ang mindset tao ba, “Ay, artificial” so naay uban nga masatisfy ra jud sila magbalik-balik,”
Bonghanoy answered when asked about her favorite thing as a florist.
This just shows that love is not only glimpsed between lovers; it is also innate in mundane activities and interactions between normal people- between the florist and her customers, between co-vendors, and between florists and their crafts.
Although flower preference is each to his own, receiving flower bouquets formed of artificial flowers is heartwarming knowing it is made by people like Bonghanoy who gave every ounce of energy and every drop of sweat to embody love in a bouquet.
With Valentine’s Day nearly approaching, artificial flowers are one of the best ways of declaring your lifetime love to your other half because it does not die. For more information about Jenny Bonghanoy’s Bouquets, you may visit her stall in Carbon Market or contact her on her Facebook page, Sky Blooms Creations.
Every February 14, it has become customary to celebrate the day of hearts, Valentine’s Day. But who exactly is Valentine’s?
Photo from Vista Residences
The Legends of St. Valentine
The Catholic Church recognizes three Saints named Valentine or Valentinus. All three were martyred. Moreover, there are different versions of the legends of St. Valentine.
Photo from www.history.com
The first legend talks about how Valentine was a Roman priest during the third century. During those times, marriage was outlawed by Emperor Claudius II because he believed single men were better at being soldiers. Valentine thought the law was absurd and continued to wed young couples. However, when he was caught, he was sentenced to death.
The other version talks about Saint Valentine of Terni, who was also beheaded by Emperor Claudius II.
Photo from Hotel Fonte Cesia
Another legend says that when Valentine was in prison, he wrote a letter and signed it with, “From your Valentine.”
Photo from Poetry collection
Why is it Valentine’s Day on February 14?
Some people believe that it is the date of Valentine’s death. Quite creepy to celebrate love on the day of someone’s tragic demise. However, there are other people who think that the Christian church decided to align St. Valentine’s celebration in an attempt to “Christianize” the pagan festival called Lupercalia.
Photo from Wikipedia
Lupercalia is a pagan festival of fertility that is dedicated to the Roman god of agriculture, Faunus.
Guess the history of Valentine’s Day has its mysteries. But nonetheless, being able to celebrate the beauty of love is something we all should still look forward to. We all need a little love in this world because, through love, we can be better people.
Just in case you needed more reasons to travel to Japan, here’s exciting news for Pokémon enthusiasts!
The Pokémon Company has just unveiled their plans to give you the theme park of your dreams. ‘PokéPark KANTO’ will be brought to life within Tokyo’s Yomiuriland, giving you an immersive experience with the mesmerizing Tama Hills serving as the perfect backdrop.
The symbolic value of this choice of location for the theme park is that it traces back to the roots of the Pokémon franchise. This is an homage to the first release of the 1996 Pokémon Red and Green in the Kanto region. This truly establishes a tangible connection between fans and the origin of the franchise.
Photo from Dot Esports
With all that said, it is also worth noting that this isn’t Nintendo’s first attempt in making a Pokémon theme park. Japan initially had its own PokéPark back in 2005, while Taiwan followed suit in 2006. The latter, however, eventually closed due to lack of popularity. Nonetheless, it was mentioned how these previous ventures set a precedent in what not to do for future projects. ‘PokéPark KANTO’ remains a very promising prospect that will bring a magical experience for Pokémon fans worldwide.
Aside from that, Yomiuriland already features the Pokémon Wonder attraction, which is an outdoor adventure amusement park which invites guests to discover 50 different Pokémon characters crafted from acorns and leaves. Sitting on a 4,500 square meter forest, fans have never been in a more suitable place to “Catch ‘Em All!”
Photo from IGN
According to the Pokémon company, PokéPark KANTO is aimed towards creating a space where Pokémon fans worldwide can enjoy something they love that transcends barriers of nationality, region, and language — Pokémon is the only common ground they need in this case. This commitment is aligned with the company’s history of fostering Pokémon communities all around the world.
While no specific date has been announced for the construction of the theme park, fans can still count on the meticulous planning and execution required for projects like this despite the time it may take. Enthusiasts will, at the end of the day, be rewarded as this dream is in its works in turning into reality.
