In two days, tickets for the Hillsong Church London Worship Concert this coming November 2024 will go on sale!
Photo form Hillsong London’s Official X Page
Philippine Concerts just posted on social media the ticket details for the Hillsong concert to be held in the SM Mall of Asia Arena. In the post, it’s stated that the tickets will start going on sale this coming April 16, 2024 at 12 NN via SM Tickets.
Photo from Hillsong London’s Official X Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
General Admission – Php 865.00
Upper Box – Php 1,400.00
Floor – Php 1,730.00
Lower Box B – Php 2,160.00
Lower Box A – Php 2,530.00
Patron – Php 3,020.00
Photo from Philippine Concerts Official Facebook Page
1. Are there going to be seats? Yes, there will be seats for all ticket-holders except for those who will purchase the floor tickets.
2. Does the price include other fees already? Yes, prices are inclusive of SM ticketing charges. However, please be advised that price changes may occur without prior notice.
3. Where can I purchase tickets? You can buy your tickets at the SM Tickets website and authorized SM ticketing counters.
On the other hand, us Sugboanons will have to wait for the unveiling of the ticket information for the SM Seaside concert. But don’t worry because we’ll give you the latest updates immediately! So, stay tuned!
Unleash your inner explorer as you journey through Cebu City’s back country at Pamutan Grasslands!
Steep rocky hills and tall grass, the hike to Pamutan Grasslands is not for the faint of heart, especially when it gets rainy. So, before we dive into the wonderful nature escape of the Queen City of the South, let’s have a look at your must-haves first!
5 Hiking Must-Haves
Photo from Canva
1. Sun & Rain Protection
Don’t let the weather rain on your parade! With Pamutan’s open trails, you’ll want to be ready for anything—from scorching sun to surprise showers. Pack your trusty sunblock and raincoat alongside your cap and light jacket for a weatherproof trek!
2. Water & Food
Keep your energy levels high and your thirst quenched with plenty of water and snacks. Whether you’re hiking solo or with your squad, make sure to pack enough sustenance to keep those legs moving! Pro tip: Bring along some electrolyte powder to keep you feeling fresh and hydrated throughout your adventure.
3. Cash & Loose Change
When nature calls—or when you spot a cute trailside snack shack—you’ll want to be prepared! Make sure to stash some cash and loose change in your pocket for those impromptu pit stops. After all, who can resist a refreshing sip of fruit juice or a tasty treat along the way?
4. Hiking Essentials
It’s time to step up your gear game! While running shoes are A-OK, investing in a sturdy pair of hiking boots will give you extra support and traction on tricky terrains. Don’t forget your lightweight hiking bag and moisture-wicking pants for maximum comfort and convenience on the trail!
5. Garbage Bag
As you embark on your Pamutan adventure, don’t forget to pack the most underrated item of all: a trusty garbage bag! Not only does it come in handy for stashing your trash, but it can also double as a makeshift shelter, mat, or wet clothes container. Show Mother Nature some love by leaving the trails cleaner than you found them—because being a responsible laagan is all part of the fun!
The Pamutan Grasslands Trail
Now let’s check out on the route that you can take for your Pamutan Grasslands Trail:
Head to San Carlos Heights
From your starting point, it may take up to 2 hours to reach the top of San Carlos Heights. The view that will welcome you at the peak is the beautiful panoramic cityscape of Cebu.
Visit the Kawa Falls
The trek to Kawa Falls may pose a bit more of a challenge compared to the journey to San Carlos Heights, especially with the slippery terrain and rocky paths near the falls. But don’t let that deter you! Once you reach Kawa Falls and witness its majestic beauty, surrounded by cascading waters and serene surroundings, you’ll find yourself feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Welcome the Wide Pamutan Grasslands
Experience nature’s wonders in its purest form as you step into the untamed beauty of Pamutan Grasslands. The breeze dances through the swaying grass, while fast-moving clouds paint a beautiful canvas in the open sky. And the best part, you’ll see beyond cityscapes since at the peak, the view you’ll get is the mountains surrounding you.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Suggested Starting Point: Quiot Pardo, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Quiot Pardo” as your destination. Most hiking groups use the 7-Eleven store nearby as their meeting place since it is easy to spot.
So, pack up and ready your hiking boots! Let’s meet up at Pamutan Grasslands for a summer of adventure and natural wonders!
Get ready to shout “YIP, YIP!” as the highly-anticipated cast for the upcoming Avatar animated film has been announced!
Photo from Paramount
Set between the events of The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra, Paramount’s latest film will be released in October 2025, promising to bring back the magic of Aang’s world on the silver screen. But, this time, in a more mature age range of 20 to 30 years old.
In a thrilling twist, Filipino-American actor, Dave Bautista, who played Drax in Guardians of the Galaxy, is set to portray a mysterious villain, while the beloved character of Aang will be voiced by the talented Eric Nam, showcasing the hero’s journey into adulthood.
Photo of Drax from Marvel | Photo of Eric Nam from Eric Nam’s Official Page
Producing this epic adventure are directors Lauren Montgomery and William Matta, who are joining forces to bring Aang’s thrilling tale to life once more.
Titled “Aang: The Last Airbender,” this film marks the beginning of an exciting trilogy that digs deeper into the world of the Avatar filled with epic battles, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable characters.
Photo of Eric Nam from Eric Nam’s Official Facebook Page | Photo from Avatar: Legend of Korra
As the live-action series of Avatar: The Last Airbender continues its production for the 2nd and 3rd seasons, this bold leap into film territory serves to keep the flames of the Avatar fans alive.
It’s National Scrabble Day! And what best to celebrate it than by going through a cheat sheet of words that you can use on your next game?
Photo from Canva
But before we get to know the letter combinations that you can actually remember easily for any scrabble game, let’s first dive into the top winning words with the highest scores ever performed in a game of scrabble, according to Dictionary.com!
WORDS WITH HIGH RECORDED SCORES IN A SCRABBLE GAME
MUZJIKS
Photo from Canva
This word has the letters Z and J which individually already sum up a score of 18! And with the right bonus tile, the word MUZJIKS can get you up to 126 points! Also, it has a very simple definition, which is a term used to call a Russian peasant under a tsar.
FREEZING
Photo composed using Canva
Scoring an impressive 329 points, the word “FREEZING” is rooted in the Middle English term “fresen,” which meant to freeze. This word’s impact on the game is undeniable since you’ll be leaving your opponents frozen in shock as soon as you place it on the board with the bonus tiles.
QUIXOTRY
Photo from Canva
The word “quixotry” is used to define a wild, visionary idea which initially was derived from the great Spanish novel “Don Quixote”. The highest score recorder for this word was at 365 points!
CAZIQUES
Photo from Canva
Pronounced as (kəˈziːks), this word is a noun for Native American chefs. Its highest tile combination reached up to 392 points with the Q and Z doing the heavy lifting!
OXYPHENBUTAZONE
Photo composed using Canva
If you’re a medical professional, then you should use medical terms to win scrabble games, such as the word “OXYPHENBUTAZONE” which could win you up to 1,778 points! For those who are not familiar with it, the word is the name for an anti-inflammatory drug usually used for eye injuries.
Photo from Canva
SIMPLE WORDS WITH GREAT SCRABBLE SCORES
Now let’s get to the words that you can most-likely remember during your family board game nights:
AX – 9 points: A tool used for chopping wood.
ZAX – 19 points: A tool for cutting roof slates.
HAZY – 19 points: Cloudy or can’t be defined.
JEEZ – 20 points: An expression of surprise or disappointment.
ZAPPY – 21 points: Lively or energetic.
QWERTY – 21 points: Standard layout of letters on a keyboard.
QUIZ – 22 points: A test of knowledge.
JAZZY – 33 points: Resembling jazz.
Photo composed from Canva
Any other words that you can add to the list, Sugboanons? Then comment your winning scrabble entries below!
Tired of sacrificing the quality of your photos when sending it via messaging apps? Then, say farewell to pixelated pictures and hello to crystal-clear clarity with Facebook Messenger’s latest update!
Gone are the days of relying on Google Drive, Airdrop, or Bluetooth to preserve your photo’s sharpness. With just a few taps, anyone can now send High-Definition photos and up to 100MB directly through Messenger, without the fear of quality loss.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Open a Messenger chat box and tap the photo icon.
Photo from Official Meta Website
Step 2: Click the HD toggle on the upper right corner of the tab. If it’s your first time to access the HD toggle, then Facebook will greet you with a welcome message introducing the latest update of the app.
Photo from Official Meta Website
Step 3: Choose your photos and hit send!
Photo from Official Meta Website
It’s that simple!
Your influencer shots and aesthetic poses will now maintain their crispness and clarity, making sharing memories with friends and family even more enjoyable. And for us proud Sugboanons, it’s a game-changer, considering the Philippines ranks sixth in the world for most Facebook users in a country!
What If There’s No HD Toggle Button?
Don’t worry if you haven’t seen it yet on your end — it’s still rolling out to the app’s users, but rest assured, it’ll reach your device soon enough. The best part? No need to fuss about reinstalling the app since it’s all happening automatically.
So, Sugboanons, let’s hear your thoughts on this exciting HD update by sharing your thoughts in the comments section below!
Craving for some authentic quesadillas and tacos? Then the Queen City of the South got you covered!
Photo from Canva
Cebu City boasts an array of top-notch Mexican restaurants and diners that cater to diverse palates and preferences. From the authentic flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine to its colorful culture, these establishments offer a journey that delights diners and keeps them coming back for more. So, let’s get to know the must-try Mexican restaurants within the heart of the city!
1. La Lucha Taqueria
Nestled within the vibrant Mango Square, La Lucha Taqueria stands as a Mexican culinary gem, delighting taste buds since its beginnings in 2012. At the heart of their menu is their best-selling tacos and burritos that brings their diners straight to the bustling streets of Mexico because of its authentic flavors and spices.
Exact Location: La Lucha Taqueria, Mango Square, Juana Osmena St, Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: From Colon St, take the jeepney route number 17C which passes through Mango Ave where you can find the restaurant.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “La Lucha Taqueria” as your destination.
2. Maya Mexican Restaurant
Maya Mexican Restaurant is a celebration of Mexico’s diverse and vibrant flavors. From the classic tacos, enchiladas, and tamales to regional specialties and innovative creations of fusion cuisines, each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. Each ingredient is locally sourced whenever possible, and traditional cooking techniques are honored to ensure the authentic Mexican taste.
Exact Location: Crossroads, Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: From Colon St, take the jeepney route number 13C which passes through Crossroads. Upon arrival, inquire to the guard where the Maya Mexican Restaurant is located.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Crossroads Maya Mexican Restaurant” as your destination.
3. Red Lizard
At Red Lizard, simplicity reigns supreme. Their philosophy revolves around straightforward, no-frills dining that lets the flavors do the talking. Step inside, and you’re instantly transported to the vibrant streets of Mexico, with a dash of that laid-back taco culture from sunny Southern California.
Exact Location: Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: From Colon St, take the jeepney route number 14D which stops at the Terminal infront of Ayala Center Cebu. Then, you can head to the level 4 near the Cinema where you can find the Red Lizard restaurant.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Red Lizard” as your destination.
4. Pueblo Mexicano
What sets Pueblo Mexicano apart is their dedication to giving a whole Mexican experience to their diners. Each item in their menu ensures that each bite bursts with authentic Mexican flair that surprises the taste buds and satisfies the soul.
Exact Location: Banilad Town Center, Gov. M.Cuenco Ave., Banilad, Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: From Colon St, take the jeepney route number 13C which transports you to the Banilad Town Center where the restaurant is located.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Pueblo Mexicano” as your destination.
5. Dogueros Mexican Cantina
Dogueros Mexican Cantina offers a unique experience to its diner as its store looks like a repurposed shipping container great for outdoor dining. They offer both dine in and take out of their delectable Mexican menu.
Exact Location: Queensland Manor, Rahmann Street, Mango Avenue Cebu City, Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: From Colon St, take the jeepney route number 17C which passes through Mango Avenue.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Dogueros Mexican Cantina” as your destination.
Whether you’re craving classic tacos, savory burritos, or refreshing margaritas, you’re sure to find a Mexican dining experience in Cebu City. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to celebrar with these must-try Mexican restaurants!
Located in the enchanting embrace of Cebu lies Liloan, dubbed as the “Light of the North.” This picturesque municipality is filled with beautiful architecture, rich histories, and legends that whisper of ancient mysteries. Among these tales, one stands out in the imagination of the townsfolk: the legend of the gigantic fish said to dwell beneath the sacred grounds of the San Fernando El Rey parish.
Photo by Berny B
THE ORIGINS OF LILOAN
The very name “Liloan” evokes a sense of intrigue, derived from the Visayan word “Lilo,” meaning whirlpool. It’s a fitting name because the area is renowned for its swirling whirlpools and churning currents that dance on the waters. Yet, the origins of these natural wonders are as diverse as the tales spun around them.
Photo from Canva
Scientific minds may attribute the whirlpools to geological formations and underwater currents, but when you go deeper into the realm of myth and legends, you’ll find interesting ancient lore. According to local tales, the whirlpools are the handiwork of a mystical fish where its physical state remains unseen to mortal eyes.
THE COGTONG
During the Spanish era, the San Fernando El Rey parish became a landmark in Liloan. But beneath its solemn exterior, tales of mystery rose. There’s talk of tunnels running beneath the church, leading to the waters under the bridge.
Photo by Archie Mercader
Legend says that if you jump or step heavily on the church’s floors, you can feel something beneath: the chambers of the tunnel. And when the water under the bridge starts swirling, locals believe a massive creature is stirring.
Photo from Canva
Some think it might be the “cogtong” or goliath grouper fish—a giant of the sea capable of swallowing prey whole and could grow larger than humans.
Photo from Canva
The tale of the gigantic mythical fish isn’t confined to just Liloan—it’s a story that has spread across other towns in Cebu too. This mystery begs the question: could there truly be a giant, man-eating fish lurking unseen in our waters? And beyond that, how many more unsolved mysteries lie beneath the foundations of our historic churches and parishes?
Pets are one of the best companions a human being could have. Even without the ability to speak, their presence vaguely brings tranquility and could even lift up a person’s well-being.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), interacting with animals and having them around decrease levels of cortisol, a stress-related hormone and can even lower blood pressure. Other studies also found out that they can make a person feel less lonely, improve feelings of social support, and boost mood.
Photo from Canva
But wait, what are the top 5 cutest pets in the world according to science? We can all agree that we find our pets the most adorable animal in the world, which makes this ranking complicated to achieve.
However, a study conducted by MoneyBeach Insurance successfully figured out the top 5 cutest pets in the world with the use of the “golden ratio”. The research was based on the animal’s face, specifically ears, eyes, tongue, and nostrils.
Now, let’s figure out the results
Top 5: Dog
Photo from Canva
With a mesmerizing golden ratio averaging at 29.64%, it’s no surprise that humans share an unbreakable bond with dogs. In the Philippines, a staggering 17 million dogs roam the streets, ranging from pedigrees to the lovable domestic mixed-breeds known as “Aspins.” And in the bustling hub of Cebu City, a whopping 160,000 cherished doggos wag their tails in homes across the urban landscape!
Top 4: Hamster
Photo from Canva
With their adorable little legs and endearing beady eyes, hamsters have secured their place in the top four, boasting a captivating golden ratio of 31.46%! Often selected as a child’s first pet, hamsters offer a delightful choice for parents, as they are among the most organized and low-maintenance companions one could have.
Top 3: Rabbit
Photo from Canva
Imagine rabbits as the larger, more adventurous cousins of hamsters, sporting those iconic long, velvety ears. With an impressive golden ratio of 40.30%, it’s no surprise they hop their way into the hearts of millions, claiming the esteemed title of the third most adorable and beloved pets in the US.
Top 2: Ferret
Photo from Canva
Known for their mischievous antics and love for company, ferrets proudly seize the spotlight in second place, with a golden ratio of 46.20%! Picture this: a creature with the body of a cat and the irresistibly cute face of a hamster—that’s the magical blend of a ferret!
And for our winner:
Top 1: Cat
Photo from Canva
With an impressive golden ratio of 46.51%, cats won the crown for being the cutest pets in the world! According to science, cats have the same effects on humans as babies do and it is known as the “baby schema effect” due to their doe-eyed characteristics, button noses, and playful attributes.
As we celebrate National Pet Day, go and cuddle with your pets to show them love. Although not just today, every day is a National Pet Day for pet-owners. This day is just an extra opportunity to express our gratitude to the existence of our babies.
Despite having the research results for the top 5 cutest pets in the world, all existing pets are equal.
Ever wanted to visit Liloan? Then check out our bucket list for your next adventure in the town of whirling waters and delectable rosquillos!
Photo from Liveloveliloan Facebook Page
Liloan, dubbed as the Light Of The North, is not just a place, but also an experience. From its century-old architecture to its adrenaline-pumping water sports scene, every corner of this town is bursting with excitement. Join us as we dive into the heart of Liloan and discover the best it has to offer:
1. Bantayan Sa Hari
Immerse yourself in the local culture and history at Bantayan Sa Hari, a historic site that offers a glimpse into Liloan’s past. It is a century-old watchtower built during the Spanish era of 1857. The tower is located in Barangay Calero and was used in the old times to guard the local community.
Because it is a “forgotten” structure, expect that the journey towards the watchtower will be challenging. There will be scrubs, tiny ground caves or holes that may cause you to trip and fall, and a rocky road ahead.
By Commute: From Brgy. Calero Liloan, hire a motorcycle taxi who can take you to the watchtower. It is best to also get the services of a tour guide so you won’t be lost, especially since the watchtower is not a known landmark or structure by some.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps by pinning “Brgy. Calero, Liloan” as your destination. Then you can hike your way to the watchtower.
2. Papa Kit’s Marina & Fishing Lagoon
Gear up for some extreme fun at Papa Kit’s Marina & Fishing Lagoon, where you can try thrilling water sports like kayaking and wakeboarding. For a budget-friendly price, you’ll get the chance to zoom through their ziplines, ride the skybike, and roll in a hamster wheel that’s suspended above! But don’t worry if you’re not a fan of adrenaline-rushing activities because Papa Kit’s also have a space for you to relieve your stress, such as their fishing lagoon, restaurant, and a stress-wall. Aside from that, they also have rooms great for hosting events with a great view of the marina.
By Commute: From SM City Cebu’s Terminal, take the 27 jeepney with a route going to Liloan, Cebu and inform the driver that you’ll be heading to Papa Kit’s Liloan. If there’s no jeepney or you’re in a hurry, you can take a V-Hire instead which can cost up to Php100.00 per one way.
By Car: Spacious parking lot is available. To navigate, just pin “Papa Kit’s Marina” on Waze or Google Maps.
3. Munch on Masi & Rosquillos
Liloan, Cebu is the home of two amazing and delectable snacks: masi and rosquillos. Masi is a glutinous rice ball that’s filled with peanuts and muscovado sugar inside. It is sweet and tasty, best served hot. And the best part is that you find masi along the roads of Liloan and can even choose whether you’ll buy one pack or just one piece.
On the other hand, you can also find Titay’s Rosquillos in Liloan. It is a biscuit that looks like a ringlet or flower and has been the delicacy of the municipality since 1907.
Photo from Titay’s Facebook Page
Photo from Titay’s Facebook Page
Photo from Titay’s Facebook Page
Photo from Titay’s Facebook Page
Photo from Titay’s Facebook Page
Photo from Titay’s Facebook Page
Photo from Claire Cui-Bensi
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Masi Price – starts at Php 50.00 a set
Titay’s Rosquillos Price – starts at Php 95.00 a box
Titay’s Exact Location: Poblacion, Municipality of Liloan, 6002 Cebu, Philippines
By Commute: From SM City Cebu’s Terminal, take the 27 jeepney with a route going to Liloan, Cebu and tell the driver that you are heading to Poblacion Liloan where Titay’s is located.
By Car: Navigate using Waze or Google Maps and pin “Titay’s Liloan” as your destination.
4. La Vie Liloan Beach Club
The newest summer escape in the municipality is the La Vie Liloan Beach Club where you can enjoy the sound of the crashing waves, strong winds, and delicious spread of Filipino cuisine. Aside from that, they also have areas for pitching your tent by the beach! Or if you’re not up to the thought of camping, then you also have the option to rent a cottage for your friends and family!
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
MENU
RATES
ENTRANCE FEES:
Adult – Php 100.00 per pax
Senior Citizen / PWD – Php 60.00 per pax
Children Below 10 Years Old – Php 60.00 per pax
Pets – No fee
COTTAGE
Cottage Rental – Php 800.00, good for 12 pax
Additional Table – Php 300.00, with 4 extra chairs
Additional Chair – Php 20.00
CAMPING
Overnight Stay: Php 100.00 per pax
Dome Tent Space Charge – Php 300.00, good for 2 pax
Frame Tent Space Charge – Php 400.00, good for 4 pax
Car Camp/Multi-room Tent Space Charge – Php 600.00, good for 6 pax
OVERNIGHT INCLUSION
Common campfire
Common restroom with separate toilets for male & female
Shower usage
PARKING FEE
Motorcycle – Php 10.00
4-Wheels – Php 20.00
CORKAGE FEE
Outside foods except for lechon & drinks are free of corkage fees.
Whole Lechon – Php 500.00
Non-Alcoholic & Alcoholic Drinks – Php 500.00
OTHER INFORMATION
Beach Club Operating Hours: 7AM to 6PM
Restaurant Operating Hours: 11AM to 9PM, Monday to Thursday | 11AM to 10MN, Friday to Sunday
Tiki Bar Operating Hours: 6PM onwards, Friday to Sunday only
Camping Check-In Time: 3PM
Camping Check-Out Time: 2PM
Main gate will be closed by 12mn for safety purposes
Exact Location: Tiwasan Catarman, Liloan, Cebu (Going to Parola)
By Commute: From SM City Cebu’s Terminal, take the 27 jeepney with a route going to Liloan Church. Then, take a motorcycle taxi and tell the driver that you are heading to “Liloan Beach Club”.
By Car: Navigate using Waze or Google Maps and pin “Liloan Beach Club” as your destination.
5. Rosquillos Festival
Experience the vibrant energy of Liloan at the annual Rosquillos Festival, where you can sample an array of local delicacies, enjoy live music and entertainment, and celebrate the town’s rich cultural heritage. Held every month of May to honor the municipality’s patron saint, San Ferdinand El Rey.
Photo from Department of Tourism- Philippines
Photo from Department of Tourism- Philippines
Photo from Department of Tourism- Philippines
Photo from Department of Tourism- Philippines
Photo from Department of Tourism- Philippines
WHAT TO EXPECT & HOW TO GET THERE
WHAT TO EXPECT
The Rosquillos Festival is Liloan’s biggest celebration so expect the following:
Closed roads – The national roads of Liloan will be closed from 12 noon til around 5 PM, so be sure to arrive at Poblacion early in the morning to avoid the traffic.
Street dancing – Dancers from different schools will be competing to be the festival champion of the event, so get your cameras ready to snap the beautiful costumes and headpieces of each delegate.
Food stalls – You will see the rosquillos delicacy sold everywhere along with other snacks, street foods, and freshly cooked seafood that you can enjoy during the festival.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Municipality of Liloan, 6002 Cebu, Philippines
By Commute: From Sun Gold Store, you can either take the jeepney route number 25 or ride the V-Hire at SM City Cebu. Inform the driver that you’re heading to San Fernando El Rey Church in Poblacion, Liloan, or the municipality town center.
By Car: Navigate using Waze or Google Maps and pin “Poblacion Liloan” as your destination.
Get ready for an adventure like no other as we go on a journey through the enchanting town of Liloan. Let the excitement begin!
Hailed as one of the most well-prepared and anticipated solar eclipses of the 21st century, the Great North American Eclipse became a global phenomenon that had everyone eagerly awaiting its arrival.
“It was a beautiful phenomenon,” shared one Twitter user from Texas who was lucky enough to witness the eclipse firsthand. Spanning nearly three hours, the event unfolded with some parts of the United States experiencing a total eclipse, while others witnessed only a partial eclipse. Although us Sugboanons missed out on this celestial show, let’s take a virtual journey through the experiences shared by our fellow kababayans abroad on social media.
Photo from NASA
A 360-degree sunset
Witnesses in the States where the total eclipse occurred have described an awe-inspiring spectacle as the skies transformed, plunging into darkness before the breathtaking hues of a sunset emerged along the horizon. The transition from daylight to dusk unfolded like a painting, captivating onlookers and leaving them in awe of nature’s wonders.
The crickets started chirping
According to scientific studies, some animals exhibit distressing symptoms of anxiety and panic during eclipses. Their behaviors are caused by confusion about the sudden darkness disrupting their usual daytime routine. Witnesses reported that the chirping of crickets filled the air as soon as the skies went dark.
The birds went silent
Just like the crickets and other animals, birds were profoundly affected by the solar eclipse. Not accustomed to nocturnal activities, birds fell silent during the eclipse’s totality, mistaking it for their usual nighttime rest. However, they resumed their chirping as soon as the sunlight returned.
The mosquitoes came out
A total eclipse not only affected the sky’s colors and sunlight but also caused a drop in temperatures, according to NASA. As temperatures cooled, mosquitoes emerged to seek their next meal. Eclipse onlookers were prepared with insect repellents to ward off these pesky insects.
The appearance of crescent shadows
During a solar eclipse’s totality, shadows from trees undergo a fascinating transformation. With only partial sunlight filtering through, the shadows take on a distinctive crescent shape due to the moon partially blocking the sunlight.
Photo from Agence France-Presse
Photo from Agence France-Presse
Photo from Agence France-Presse
Photo from Agence France-Presse
In conclusion, the Great North American Eclipse of the 21st century left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege to witness its celestial dance. From the breathtaking 360-degree sunset to the symphony of chirping crickets and the temporary silence of birds, the eclipse provided a moment of awe and wonder for all who experienced it. Even though we Sugboanons missed out on this celestial spectacle, we can still marvel at the photos and videos shared online. And even better is that it left us eagerly awaiting the next cosmic event to grace our skies, which will not be long since we have the upcoming total lunar eclipse this September 2025 and a solar eclipse in 2028
