Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA-DOST) disclosed that there may be up to two tropical cyclones expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this month.
Photo from PAGASA Website
According to the state weather specialist, Rhea Torres, they are seeing two possibilities: the first showing a scenario wherein the tropical storm heads to a curve away from the PAR once it draws nearer; while, the second shows that if the storm’s entry point goes lower, it can hit parts of Eastern Visayas, MIMAROPA, Bicol, and Calabarzon. It then will exit to the West Philippine Sea and away from the PAR.
Photo from Johnrain Yburan
A Blessing Or An Upcoming Disaster?
PAGASA has forecasted an alarming heat index for this May, ranging between 42 degrees Celsius and 48 degrees Celsius; that’s higher than the average fever! Moreover, dams and water supplies are drying up, leading to issues in some provinces. With a typhoon on the horizon, the question arises: Will it be a blessing or a disaster in the making?
Photo from PAGASA Website
While typhoons often bring destruction and hardship, they can also have some positive effects, including:
Replenishing water sources: Typhoons can bring heavy rainfall, which replenishes our dams, rivers, reservoirs, rivers, and groundwater sources.
Cools the temperature: The intense rainfall and cloud covering the affected areas will temporarily lower temperatures and therefore, resulting in lower heat indexes during the summer months.
Agricultural benefits: The rainfall brought by the typhoon can provide the much-needed moisture for crops, helping the soil moisture levels be balanced after being dried out from the intense summer heat.
Photo from Canva
However, too much of anything is never good, especially when it comes to the amount of rainfall. It’s important to remember that a typhoon may also cause property damage, loss of life, and disruptions to livelihoods due to floods and landslides. Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritize safety measures and preparedness efforts to minimize the negative impacts of typhoons or tropical storms.
Photo from Canva
So, Sugboanons, do you think a typhoon is a benefit or a disadvantage? Share your thoughts below!
Reader’s Digest UK is officially shutting down after 86 years of operation as one of the trusted magazine publications in the United Kingdom.
Photo from Canva
The Reader’s Digest UK Editor-in-Chief of six (6) years, Eva Mackevic, posted on LinkedIn an announcement last April 29, 2024 that the magazine has reached its last page. According to Mackevic, one of the reasons for the closure was due to the financial crisis that the company continued to encounter in the striving industry.
“After 86 wonderful years, I am very sad to share that Reader’s Digest UK has come to an end.”
-Eva Mackevic
On their website, the company posted their farewell message to their readers:
Screengrab from Reader’s Digest Official Website
Although Reader’s Digest UK is halting their publication for printed magazines, they are pushing through digitizing their previous editions for the general public to easily peruse online. So, it’s not the end of their UK franchise after all.
Raise your hand if you’ve experienced a moment when you need a valid ID to get your first valid ID…
One of the challenges of adulting is securing a valid identification card that government offices will acknowledge. These IDs are crucial for various transactions, such as opening a bank account, applying for a job, or even just proving your identity. However, the processing time for these IDs can be a major hassle, often taking up to 1 to 2 years to be delivered to your doorstep!
But don’t fret, Sugboanons. We’ve got you covered with this list of valid IDs that you can get as soon as possible!
NBI Clearance
Photo from NBI Clearance Website
Processing Duration: 30 minutes
Validity: 1 Year
While not exactly an ID card, the NBI Clearance serves as a certificate or proof of your identity. It’s a straightforward process that can be completed in just 30 minutes. Simply set an appointment online at clearance.nbi.gov.ph, pay the fee at any e-pay center near you, visit the nearest NBI branch, present your NSO/PSA document and a supporting ID, and then wait for your clearance to be released. Your personal information, including your fingerprints, will be printed on a blue sheet of paper for legitimacy. You can even use your PhilHealth Membership Information to prove your identity.
Postal ID
Photo from Postal ID Ph Website
Processing Duration: 1 Week
Validity: 3 Years
The Postal ID is one of the quickest and easiest IDs to obtain. With just two requirements, Barangay Clearance and NSO Birth Certificate, you can have a legitimate identification card in just seven (7) business days! Simply present your documents at your nearest Postal Office, pay the processing fee of Php 500.00 (varies and may change depending on their latest policies), and wait a week for your ID to be ready for pickup.
Passport
Photo from Cebu Travel Agency Website
Processing Duration: 2 Weeks
Validity: 10 Years
Your passport is not just a travel document, it’s a valid ID that can take you anywhere! First-time passport holders only need two primary documents: your NSO/PSA Birth Certificate and a supporting ID such as a student ID. And if you pay for the rush processing fee, you will be able to receive your passport in just 14 business days! Along with your documents, prepare a passport application form and ensure you have already secured an appointment online.
So, what are you waiting for? Get those valid IDs now!
Let’s discover the tasty strawberry delicacies you can find in Cebu!
Fresh Strawberries & Jams
Photo from Pexels
Bursting with the perfect blend of the tanginess of strawberries and the sweetness of natural sugars, strawberry jams are the perfect summertime spread that you can have to any of your favorite pastries. And, why opt to buy canned options at the store when you can pick the strawberries yourself and have freshly made jams from a strawberry farm?
Photo from James Gleary Aaron
One of the must-visit strawberry farms in Cebu is Sergio’s Farm in Maloray, Dalaguete. And the best part is that they don’t use chemicals for nourishing their crops!
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Sergio’s Farm Dalaguete” as your destination.
Tanghulu
Photo from Tasting Table
The Chinese delicacy is already in Cebu and can easily be bought at Colon! The Kamagayan Food Park is where tons of different tanghulu or skewered fruits can be found. You can even dip the tanghulu in chocolate or honey, depending on the flavor that you prefer.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Strawberry Tanghulu – starts at Php 100.00
OTHER INFORMATION
Operating Hours: 6PM to 12MN
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: 7VXX+PXV, Junquera St, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
By Commute: From 138 Mall, go straight through Junquera St until you reach the area where shoe repair shops are lining the streets. The Kamagayan Food Park is located in-between.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Kamagayan Food Park” as your destination.
Strawberry Shortcake
Photo from Chocolate Cakes By Nicole’s Official Facebook Page
Birthdays and celebrations get better with a strawberry shortcake in hand! This classic dessert has three main components: a sweet biscuit or sponge cake base, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. Together, it makes a perfect combination of fluffy goodness paired with the sweet-tarty taste of strawberries. And if you want to have a cake to-go, then fret not because Chocolate Cakes By Nicole offers delivery packages for your special day!
Photo from Chocolate Cakes By Nicole’s Official Facebook Page
Exact Location: 2nd Level Alcoves Wing, Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: From Colon St., take the 14D jeepney route and tell the driver that you are dropping off at Ayala Center Cebu. Once you arrive at the terminal, head to the mall and go to the 2nd level at the Alcoves Wing. You can immediately spot the Chocolate Cakes By Nicole store in the area.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Ayala Center Cebu” as your destination.
Strawberry Coffee
Photo from Starbucks
The sweetness of strawberries and the bitterness of coffee grounds paired with the creamy taste of milk makes a blend of the perfect summer beverage! From frappes to the simple concoction of a strawberry macchiato, Cebu City got you covered.
Photo from Pexels
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Strawberry Coffee – price starts at Php 39.00 on selected coffee stalls.
Strawberry Frappes – price starts at Php 200.00 in coffee shops.
OTHER INFORMATION
There are several coffee shops where you can order strawberry beverages such as Don Macchiato’s, Uncle Brews, and even Starbucks. On the one hand, if you want uncaffeinated options, Thirsty and Starbucks also offer strawberry flavored drinks, best for kids and those who want a healthier beverage.
Strawberry Cheesecake
Photo from Cheezken’s Official Facebook Page
Why opt for the regular New York cheesecake when you can add some tasty strawberries on it? At Cheezken Cebu, they make budget-friendly delicious cheesecakes fit for anyone! You can even order their assorted cakes where you can get not one, not two, but up to 8 flavors in one!
Exact Location: Don Gervacio Quijada Street, Brgy. Guadalupe, Cebu City, Philippines
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Cheezken Cebu” as your destination.
Photo from Cheezken’s Official Facebook Page
With all the varieties of strawberry-flavored goodness that Cebu has to offer, you’ll be sure to have a delicious summer ahead! So, what are you waiting for, Sugboanons? Order and grab a taste now!
Sit, let it go, inhale, and exhale your thoughts away in these relaxing places that you can find in the Queen City of the South!
Photo from Pexels
In this fast-paced world, it’s important to find a place of rest and relaxation. Good thing that Cebu has those places, and most of them are free too!
What Is Meditation?
Photo from Pexels
Meditation is a practice of mindfulness to calm our senses and state. The simple process of inhaling and exhaling can help you maintain your balance, stabilize your emotions, and keep your inner peace. Although inspired by ancient philosophies and different religions, meditating does not require anyone to be religious nor to convert.
Photo from Pexels
Top Places to Meditate In Cebu
Here are some of the areas in Cebu where you can lay your yoga mats and breathe in fresh air:
Dawata Wellness
Photo from Dawata Wellness Official Facebook Page
One of the top wellness centers in Cebu is Dawata Wellness where they welcome their yoga practitioners and guests with open arms. Aside from yoga and meditation, they also conduct donation drives and community service activities. So, if you want to not only cleanse your chakra but also reach out to the community, then Dawata Wellness will be your best bet!
Photo from Dawata Wellness Official Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Daily Class
Drop-In | Single Class – Php 420.00
Bring-A-New Friend – Php 370.00
Introductory Rates
3 Class Pass – Php 900.00
1 Week Unlimited – Php 1,750.00
1 Month Unlimited – Php 4,000.00
Beginners Starter Pass
3 Class Pass – Php 900.00
1 Week Unlimited Pass – Php 1,250.00
10 Class Pass – Php 3,000.00
Class Pass
3 Class Pass – Php 2,000.00
10 Class Pass – Php 3,500.00
20 Class Pass – Php 6,000.00
1 Month Yoga Unlimited – Php 5,500.00
Dawata Warrior Membership – Php 15,000.00
Private Yoga Package
One-on-One (In-Studio) – Php 1,500.00
5 Private Yoga Classes – Php 6,000.00
Small Group (max of 5) – Php 3,000.00
OTHER INFORMATION
Operating Hours: 6AM to 9PM on Mondays | 6AM to 10PM from Tuesday to Sunday
Exact Location: Ground Floor, Zenith Central, Lot 2, Block 10, Luzon Ave., Cebu Business Park
By Commute: From Colon St., take the 14D jeepney route and inform the driver that you’ll be dropping off at Cebu Business Park. Then, when you drop off at the Ayala Terminal, turn right to Luzon Ave, then left to Negros Rd., and finally left onto Bantayan Rd where you can find Zenith Central.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Dawata Wellness Yoga” as your destination.
Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Buddhist Temple
Photo from Lenie Lañojan
This Buddhist Temple is located in the busy streets of V. Rama, but you wouldn’t expect how beautiful and peaceful it is once you step into its doors.
Photo from Lenie Lañojan
The Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Buddhist Temple is one of the many branches of the worldwide Sangha of Fo Guang Shan in Taiwan. The temple offers various services including promoting and educating practitioners on Dharma, meditation, and other cultural activities. And the best part is that they hold meditation classes in the temple for free every Thursday at 7PM! All that’s left for you to do is be present, in mind and body.
By Commute: From Colon St., take the 06C jeepney route and tell the driver that you’ll be dropping off at Guang Ming College nearby Brigada News FM. You can immediately spot the temple’s gates or arch on the left side of the road. Once you arrive, climb to the main entrance where you can find a guardhouse and inquire directly to the guard about the meditation class at the temple.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Guang Ming College” or “Fo Guang Shan Temple” as your destination. There is ample parking space inside.
Mt. Kan-Irag
Photo by Ariel Alegado
Although it is known as the go-to camping site of Cebuanos, Mt. Kan-Irag can also be for those who seek to meditate beyond the hustle and bustle of Cebu City. The air above the Kan-Irag is fresh and it also has wide landscapes that can ease your eyes while you inhale and exhale your stresses away.
Photo by Ariel Alegado
RATES & HOW TO GET THERE
RATES
Entrance Fee – ranges from Php 70.00 to Php 100.00, depending on the season and events
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Kang-irag Langob-Sirao, Cebu City
By Commute: From Colon St, take the 17B jeepney route and tell the driver that you are dropping off at J.Y Square Mall. Once you arrive, ride a motorcycle going to the Kan-Irag dropoff point and look for a guide who can take you up to the mountain. It can take up to 20 to 30 minutes to hike up to the camping site, but it’s going to be worth it due to its beautiful scenery.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Mt. Kan-Irag” as your destination.
Photo by Ariel Alegado
Meditation Tips
Aside from wearing comfortable clothes and bringing a bottle of water, here are some additional tips that you can keep in mind when you do your first meditation retreat:
Set a time limit
By setting a time limit, you enable yourself to have a more structured meditation practice. Also, remember that when you feel that what you’re doing is too much, then it probably already is.
Take notice for each part of your body
As you inhale and exhale, notice how each part of your body is responding to your breathing. Feel every inch, from your toes, to your temples.
Relax your wandering mind
It is normal that your mind will keep on wandering as you close your eyes for the first time. But, just continue breathing in and out, and be kind to yourself. Once you fully get the hang of relaxing, your mind will start being at peace.
Photo from Pexels
So, Sugboanons, what are you waiting for? Start your meditation journey now!
Be quirky in a world where fashion always has a touch of drama. Try out the nonchalant aesthetic!
What is Nonchalant?
Photo from Canva
Nonchalant is when someone acts like they don’t really care or aren’t bothered by something, even though they might be. They are typically the type of people who lack emotional intelligence, as they tend to maintain a laid-back demeanor even when facing situations that could provoke stress, frustration, or excitement. King energy, right?
Kidding aside. It does not necessarily lack emotional intelligence on its own though. Struggling to express emotions could be a coping mechanism. Some people may adopt a nonchalance as a way to manage stress or maintain composure in certain situations. However, constant pushing of your emotions away could potentially be a sign of emotional avoidance and immaturity, which may be related to low emotional intelligence.
Although being nonchalant is often a red flag in real-life situations as it could cause chaos and misunderstandings, some people are vaguely attracted to it. Why so? Well, to spice things up by only doing it for the plot! You know, to have something entertaining to share with their friends. So let’s start your guide on how to dress in a nonchalant way.
How to Dress Nonchalantly
Wear neutral colored shirts.
Photo from Canva
Neutral colors are the best colors to use as they perfectly represent being nonchalant. Earth tones, gray whites, black, and beige work well for a nonchalant style.
Go for loose fits.
Photo from Canva
Choose clothing with relaxed or slightly oversized fits for a laid-back vibe. Avoid clothing that is too tight or restrictive.
Keep it simple.
Photo from Canva
As you are radiating this quirky energy, you have to keep it simple and have a composed posture. Choose simple items such as solid-colored t-shirts, denim jeans, or casual shirts. Steer clear of clothing that’s too flashy or extravagant.
Accessorize sparingly.
Photo from Canva
You may add just a few accessories to improve your style by adding some watches or minimalist jewelry. Silver chains are the best accessories to use to express this demeanor.
Be confident.
Photo from Canva
The key to pulling off a nonchalant style is confidently owning your outfit. Embrace your unique style and attitude to effortlessly carry the look!
In conclusion, how you dress is just a visual representation complementing this specific attitude. Being nonchalant strangely became a trend, and yes, it is indeed true that some people find it attractive. They significantly romanticize this demeanor for some weird reasons.
Let us not forget that emotional intelligence plays an important role in our daily lives. Suppressing your emotions and stopping yourself from expressing it are unhealthy for your well-being. While this article may convey its message with a hint of sarcasm, it nonetheless underscores the importance of acknowledging these realities.
Public utility vehicles and transportation leaders in Cebu are warning commuters about the possibility of an increase in the minimum fare, which could go up to Php 40.00, compared to our current rate of Php 15.00!
Photo from Canva
Gregory Perez, Head of the Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide Cebu, stated that the fare increase may be one outcome of the phase-out of traditional jeepneys to welcome more modern versions.
Why Is There A Fare Increase?
Photo from Canva
Here are two main reasons why we Sugboanons will be experiencing a possible fare hike in the coming months:
Unit price
Due to the plans of the Land Transportation Office to phase out all traditional public transportation units, jeepney owners will have to invest in modern jeepneys. The price of modern jeepneys ranges between ₱2.4M to ₱3M as opposed to the traditional jeepneys, which were only priced below ₱300K.
Fuel price
Photo from Canva
Almost every day, the Philippines encounters a fuel price increase due to the hike in crude oil prices. So, as a butterfly effect, the fuel cost will also affect the fare of public vehicles to compensate for each cent and peso.
Is Jeepney Modernization Beneficial for Filipinos?
The charm of traditional jeepneys is just that—charms. They physically embody traditional Filipino beauty, similar to the uniqueness of kalesas. However, because of their age, most traditional jeepneys emit more carbon dioxide than modern jeepneys, which can become a health and safety concern, not only for humans but also for Mother Nature.
Although Philippine government agencies are pushing for the jeepney modernization process more nowadays, it is essential to remember that they only look to phase out some traditional vehicles after some time. According to an interview last January 2024, the Land Transportation Franchising & Regulatory Board reassured the country that they would only require traditional jeepney vehicles that are aged 15 years old to pause operation in order to reduce pollution and accidents related to its old gears.
So, Sugboanons, what’s your take on the modernization of jeepneys and the upcoming fare hike? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
This May, Air Asia is offering budget-friendly one-way fares for as low as ₱5 as part of their 5.5 Seat Sale.
Photo from AirAsia Website
Starting today until May 5, 2024, you can secure low-fare tickets going to different travel destinations in the Philippines and abroad! All you have to do is go to the airline’s official website or to their accredited travel partners to buy your tickets.
Where Can Your ₱5 Bring You?
Here are the list of places that you can book a flight to for your next summer vacation, departing from Cebu:
Caticlan
Photo from Trip
One of the entry points to Boracay is Caticlan, Aklan. From the clear waters of Sanga-an River to the breathtaking Pantaleon Peak, it is no wonder that Caticlan is slowly rising as one of the top tourist attractions in Aklan. And with the affordable 5-peso one-way base fare, it will be a guarantee that your trip will not only be memorable but also affordable; leaving you more room to spend on the tasty delicacies of the island.
Puerto Princesa
Photo from TripAdvisor
Limestone caves and underwater rivers are some of the mesmerizing offers of Puerto Princesa. You can spot and swim with dolphins, turtles, and stingrays, while also enjoying the island’s vibrant corals.
Davao
Photo from Davao Medical School Foundation Inc.
Ever wanted to visit Mt. Apo? Then you’re in luck as the 5.5 Sale also includes Davao as one of the destinations for their 5-peso fares departing from Cebu! You can also go to the Durian Dome and the Davao River that seamlessly cuts through the urbanized city of the south.
Aside from the first-three places, there are also other destinations that you can book to avail the promotion such as Roxas City, Tacloban, and CDO for local travels while Taipei, Hong Kong, and Kota Kinabalu for your international trips.
Photo from AirAsia
So, Sugbuanons, what are you waiting for? Book your flights now!
Aimed to raise awareness for a zombie apocalyptic future, the Zombie Awareness Month was established by the Zombie Research Society and is commemorated every month of May since 2007. The symbol for the event is a gray ribbon to signify the solidarity and preparedness of the community, as well as to celebrate the booming industry of zombie-related entertainment.
Photo from Canva
Ways to Celebrate Zombie Month with the Fam
Photo from Canva
There are many ways to celebrate the month of the undead with your family, and here are some of them:
Watch Z-O-M-B-I-E-S
Photo from Disney Plus Website
A musical about a zombie and a preppy human cheerleader falling in love? Disney got your back! They have a Z-O-M-B-I-E-S franchise which is a mix of fun colorful choreography and heartfelt messages about inclusivity. Also, the characters are not limited to zombies and humans because there are also werewolves, aliens, and the upcoming Z-O-M-B-I-E-S 4 which will have vampires, too!
Join A Zombie Fun Run
Photo from The Zombie Fun Run Facebook Page
Why run on a normal 5k marathon when you can be chased by zombies? If that’s your bet, stay on the lookout for zombie fun run events where folks dressed as zombies will be running after you, prompting you to run faster. Most zombie fun runs even have additional competitions such as a costume contest where you’ll get more zombie freebies!
Eat Brains!
Photo from Sugbo.ph
No we don’t mean human brains, we meant the famous “Tuslob-Buwa!” Nowadays, you can avail unlimited tuslob-buwa at affordable prices ranging from Php 99.00 per head to Php 300.00! Also, you can even buy a tuslob-buwa package and have your own brain dinner at home with your family and friends.
Craft A Zombie
Photo from Canva
DIY projects are the hit this summer! So, get those crafting papers and glues out, and craft your own zombie apocalypse! You can make zombie masks, brains, and zombie medical syringes. And if you have a birthday party coming up, you can have a zombie-themed birthday bash where you can hire face painters to zombify the party-goers.
Bake Zombie Goods
Photo from My Sweet Fancy Cake Facebook Page
Zombie cookies, cakes, and brownies paired with cucumber juice will make a perfect merienda for your kids! You can also get creative by making zombie versions of normal foods or by simply buying edible green goods such as green wafers, bubblegum, and candy!
Kill Some Zombies!
Photo from Sugbo.ph
If you’re up for an adrenaline rush with your kids, head to SM Seaside and enjoy a game of virtual reality where you’re stuck in jail with zombies rushing around. You can play in twos or threes and bust some undead heads as a team!
So, Sugboanons, get zombified and celebrate Zombie Awareness Month this May with us by sharing your zombie photos to our social media accounts!
Get ready for an exploration in the world of carnivorous plants!
Photo from Canva
Carnivorous plants are often seen as nature’s intriguing predators. They have captivated the attention of nature enthusiasts and curious minds for centuries as experiments and studies about them remain active until today. These remarkable organisms have evolved throughout the years of existence. Now, let’s delve deeper to their fascinating nature and explore more about their world.
What is a Carnivorous Plant?
Photo from Canva
Carnivorous plants capture insects for supplementary nutrients. Carnivory in plants has evolved independently. They vaguely attract insects, setting it as a trap for their digestion. Small carnivorous plants may eat insects, but the bigger ones can eat small mammals. Their indigestion depends on their sizes.
Mechanisms of Capture
There are different methods that carnivorous plants do to capture their prey.
Pitfall Traps
Photo from Canva
This is used by pitcher-like carnivorous plants. They have modified leaves that are forming a pitfall trap filled with digestive enzymes.
Flypaper Traps
Photo from Canva
This specific trap is used by plants with glandular structures on their leaves which exude a sticky substance causing prey to get stuck. While this happens, their digestive enzymes will proceed breaking down the capture for absorption.
Snap Traps
Photo from Canva
Carnivorous plants that possess leaves that snap shut rapidly when triggered by prey. Once closed, its enzymes will break the capture down for digestion.
Bladder Traps
Photo from Canva
This kind of trap is used by carnivorous plants with tiny bladder-like structures that create a vacuum when it can sense prey, sucking them in for absorption.
Ecological Significance of Carnivorous Plants
While they are often seen as harmful plants for their unique adaptations and nature, they play a crucial role in the ecosystem. They contribute to the regulation of insect populations. Therefore, they influence the structure and dynamics of their habitat. Additionally, some carnivorous plants provide microhabitats for other organisms, further enhancing biodiversity.
Photo from Canva
As they continue to inspire nature enthusiasts and curious scientists from their intricate trapping mechanisms and contribution to the ecosystem, this serves as a reminder of nature’s endless capacity for innovation and adaptation. We must strive to comprehend these types of plants as we gain valuable insights into the complexity and beauty of the natural world, as well as be knowledgeable about their purpose.
