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What You Missed In Art Fair PH 2024

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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.

  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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 Instagram
Photo from @artfairph on Instagram
Photo from @artfairph on Instagram
Photo 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.

Greece Is the First Orthodox Christian Country to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage

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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.

Tweet from @captainiberia on X

San Miguel Corp.-Led Consortium to Operate NAIA Rehabilitation Project

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.com
Photo 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.

Off-White™ opens door in NUSTAR Cebu City

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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. 

Press Contact:

Jaja Chiongbian-Rama
Bigseed PR & Events
Mobile: 0917-623-3000
Email: [email protected]

Mike Lumen
Bigseed PR & Events
Mobile: 0917-878-5129
Email: [email protected]

Alfonsa Tent Ground: A Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Oslob

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 Facebook
Photo from Alfonsa TENT Ground on Facebook
Photo from Alfonsa TENT Ground on Facebook
Photo 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 Facebook
Photo from Alfonsa TENT Ground on Facebook
Photo from Alfonsa TENT Ground on Facebook
Photo from Alfonsa TENT Ground on Facebook
Photo from Alfonsa TENT Ground on Facebook

Below are the room rates you can choose from based on your budget: 

  • Kamalig – P800
    • Good for 2 pax 
    • Nipa Hut
    • Entrance fee for 2 pax included
  • Tent rental (without inclusion) – P200
    • Good for 2 pax 
    • Entrance fee not included
  • Tent rental (with inclusion) – P400
    • Good for 2 pax 
    • Inclusions are: 1 banig, 1 blanket, 1 towel, and 2 cushion pillow
    • Entrance fee not included
  • Own Tent pitching – P100
    • Entrance fee not included 
  • Bamboo table – P200
    • Entrance fee not included
  • New Nipa House – P3,000
    • Good for 6 pax
    • Entrance fee included 

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)
  • Operating hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Corkage Fee: None
  • Contact Numbers: 0917 877 0769
  • Email Address: None
  • Facebook Page: Alfonsa Tent Ground

HOW TO GET THERE:

Exact Location: Natalio Bacalso Ave., Luka, Oslob, Cebu

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.

The Famous Tanghulu Finally In Town!

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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 Page
Photo from Strawberry Station – Cebu Official Facebook Page
Photo 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 Page
Photo from Strawberry Station – Cebu Official Facebook Page
Photo from Strawberry Station – Cebu Official Facebook Page

Below are their food options and their corresponding prices:

  • Pure strawberry juice – P25
  • Strawberry Tanghulu – P100 
  • Strawberry cup w/ chocolate dip – P100 
  • Strawberry dried fruit – P180
  • Strawberry jam (8oz) – P150
  • Strawberry jam – P230
  • Strawberry pack with chocolate dip – P270

RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION

DAY USE 

  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 PM to 12:00 MN

OTHER INFORMATION: 

HOW TO GET THERE

Exact Location: Chibogan sa Kamagayan, Colon Night Market, Cebu City, Philippines

BY COMMUTE: From Colon, you can ride any jeepney you can ride any jeepney that passes through Junquera St. such as:

  • 12G – Labangon to SM 
  • 10H – Bulacao to SM

And then, you can ask the driver to drop you off at the “V-Hire Southbound Terminal” that is beside the “Chibogan sa Kamagayan.”

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “V-Hire Southbound Terminal” which is beside the “Chibogan sa Kamagayan.”

Between Spirituality and Conservation: Monkeys in Divine Mercy Construction

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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 Alcover
Photo 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.

Ayala Allocates ₱13 Billion for Renovation – Including Ayala Center Cebu

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.

Glorietta
Greenbelt
Trinoma

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.

Paharuhay Campsite: An Affordable Getaway in the North

We all deserve a break from our hectic lives and most especially from our fast-paced surroundings. 

Photo from Paharuhay Campsite Official Facebook Page
Photo 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 Page
Photo 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?

MORE INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE 

EXACT LOCATION: Paharuhay Campsite, Central Nautical Hwy, Caduawan, Tabogon, Cebu, Philippines 6009

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. 

Mandaue Offers Election Registration to Non-Mandaue Individuals

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 Facebook
Photo 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.