The former Boyzone member serenaded Cebu just in time for Valentine’s Day!
Ronan Keating admitted it was his first time performing on the Sugboanon stage as a solo artist. He recalled his early performances across Asia, noting that he first set foot in Cebu on August 29, 1997, when Boyzone performed at the New Cebu Coliseum. Now, returning to the Queen City of the South, Ronan was beyond excited to sing the songs he has written and evoke nostalgic memories with Boyzone hits.
No Matter What
With the new “Boyzone: No Matter What” documentary now out, Ronan shared his excitement for fans to know more about the band in their peak years, which includes their ups and downs, the estrangement of their former talent manager, Louis Walsh, and the death of Stephen Gately.
Photo from Tim Roney | Getty Images
According to his press interview, the band aims to have their story out of their hearts and thoughts, and for fans to know the truth. In the trailer, one member stated that amidst being in an audience of thousands, there were times when they felt more alone than ever—the cost of fame and fortune hitting them early on in their lives.
Life Is A Rollercoaster, Just Gotta Ride It
All the remaining former members of Boyzone are now leading individual lives. Keith Duffy has embraced the role of a philanthropist as he supports any cause related to autism awareness, Mikey Graham is enjoying life as a grandfather and family man, and Shane Lynch is active in various entertainment programs and reality shows. Meanwhile, Ronan Keating continues to stay in the spotlight of the stage, continuing his own path alone while still holding on to the dear old tunes of the band that sparked his beginnings.
Ronan’s enthusiasm was evident on stage as he performed songs he once sang with his bandmates, from the hit “When You Say Nothing at All” to the heart-wrenching “If Tomorrow Never Comes.” His steady journey on the rollercoaster of stardom and life proves that with resilience and passion, one can remain in the spotlight with pure intentions while continuing to grow alongside his fanbase over decades of performances.
A Timeless Valentine’s Day Gift from Ronan
“It’s like being thrown back in time, when I was in high school…” shared one Sugboanon who went to the Ronan Keating: A Valentine’s Special concert at the Waterfront Cebu Hotel and Casino last February 12, 2025.
The evening began with the romantic ballad “Baby Can I Hold You,” followed by a series of chart-topping hits and beloved covers, including the Bee Gees’ “Words,” “You Needed Me,” “The Way You Make Me Feel,” and Cat Stevens’ classic “Father and Son.”
Ronan brought kilig to his Sugboanon audience not only with his romantic voice but also with his skillful acoustic guitar playing, adding an even more magical and heartfelt moment perfect for Valentine’s Day.
We, Sugboanons, Want More!
One Ronan Keating concert is NEVER enough for the Sugboanon audience, and what’s even better if he comes back with the Boyzone with him, singing their tunes of nostalgia and 90’s covers. But, for now, guess we’ll just be hitting the loop button on our concert videos to reminisce and get a daily dose for our post-concert blues.
The national mapping agency shared that the Philippines has over 500 new islands, making the total number of islands in the archipelago to over 7, 600 from the outdated 7,107 islands.
The Philippine Geomatics Symposium and the National Mapping and Resource Information confirmed that there are 500 new islands in the Philippines through a Facebook post.
Photo from Canva
Using interferometric synthetic aperture radar (IFSAR) technology that NAMRIA obtained in 2013, the government agency found land features that may be considered islands.
Within three to five months of using IFSAR topographic maps and other data sources, Namria found that the original count of 7,107 islands were no longer accurate.
Photo from Canva
It took Namria more than two years to validate because some land features may just be rocks, islets, reefs, mangroves or sandbars.
Namria administrator Peter Tiangco said that the agency was exercising caution due to the implications of the new discovery.
The Dynamic Nature of Island Formation
Photo from Canva
An interesting aspect of the Philippines ever-changing landscape is the formation of new natural islands. Volcanic activity, tectonic movements, and sediment deposition are primary forces behind the creation of new landmasses. The Philippines is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to volcanic eruptions and seismic activities that can lead to the birth of new islands.
The Omagieca Mangrove Garden, located in Brgy. Oboob in Bantayan, Cebu, is a refreshing escape, a welcome change from the skyscrapers and pollution of the usual city life.
Photo from Minerva BenoitPhoto from Minerva Benoit
Mangroves At Every Side
Photo from @dnceballos via Instagram
As you enter this paradise, you’ll be greeted by the beauty of bright green mangrove trees and the feel of fresh air. You can then go on a walk, taking in the scenery and capturing memories with photos alongside the famous signs, “Camp Sawi” and “Camp Wagi.”
The experience becomes even more breathtaking as you continue to stroll to the end of the garden where you can find the exact spot in the film “Camp Sawi,” a movie about navigating the ups and downs of relationships.
Contributed by: 램보월
For adventure enthusiasts, you can also enjoy kayaking and boating, and when hunger strikes, you can dine at their onsite restaurant that serves delicious local Bantayan dishes.
Photo from Minerva BenoitPhoto from Minerva BenoitPhoto from Minerva Benoit
Beyond being a top tourist destination or an iconic film location, this mangrove garden is also a community project managed by barangay residents. It is operated by Omagieca, which stands for Ob-Ob Mangrove Garden Integrated Ecotourism Conservation Association, ensuring the sustainability and preservation of this beautiful natural environment.
Photo from Minerva BenoitPhoto by Bryan Kerk RuraPhoto from Minerva Benoit
Exact Location: Omagieca, Oboob Mangrove Garden, Bantayan Island, Northern Cebu – approx. 30 mins away from the port.
By Car: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Omagieca” in Bantayan Island. Parking space is available.
By Bus: Go to Cebu City North Bus Terminal and ride on a bus bound for Hagnaya. Estimated travel time is 3.5-4 hours. Once in Hagnaya Port, you will ride on a barge bound for Santa Fe port (travel time is approximately 1 hr). The Tourism Office in Santa Fe port will collect P30/person for all incoming guests to the Island as per ordinance approved by local and provincial councilors as Environmental or Ecological Fee. After that, ride a motorcycle or tricycle to Omagieca.
The solar system’s resident backburner, Pluto, is remembered today.
Pluto Day, celebrated on February 18th, marks the anniversary of the discovery of Pluto in 1930 by Clyde Tombaugh.
Once considered the ninth planet of our solar system, Pluto was reclassified as a “dwarf planet” in 2006.
Despite this controversial demotion, Pluto continues to capture the imagination of astronomers and space enthusiasts alike.
The Discovery of Pluto
The search for Pluto began in the 1840s when astronomers noticed unexplained irregularities in Uranus’ orbit.
Photo from the International Astronomical Union
Percival Lowell, an astronomer who believed another planet was influencing Uranus, initiated a search for “Planet X.” Unfortunately, he did not live to see its discovery.
In 1930, Clyde Tombaugh, working at the Lowell Observatory in Arizona, identified Pluto as the celestial body Lowell had been searching for.
Pluto was named by an 11-year-old English girl, Venetia Burney, who suggested the name after the Roman god of the underworld.
The name was fitting, as Pluto resides in the cold and dark outer regions of our solar system.
Why Was Pluto Demoted?
For over 75 years, Pluto enjoyed its status as the ninth planet of the solar system.
However, in 2006, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) redefined the criteria for what constitutes a planet. According to these new guidelines, a celestial body must:
Orbit the Sun
Be spherical in shape due to its own gravity
Clear its orbit of other debris
Pluto failed the third criterion, as its orbit overlaps with other objects in the Kuiper Belt.
As a result, Pluto was reclassified as a “dwarf planet,” much to the dismay of many Pluto fans.
Is Pluto Still There?
Despite its change in status, Pluto remains an essential part of our solar system.
It is located in the Kuiper Belt, about 3.67 billion miles from the Sun. Pluto has five known moons, including Charon, which is so large compared to Pluto that they are often considered a double dwarf planet system.
The New Horizons spacecraft provided stunning images of Pluto in 2015, revealing icy mountains, frozen plains, and a dynamic atmosphere.
Why Pluto Still Matters
Pluto Day is a reminder of human curiosity, scientific progress, and our ongoing quest to explore the universe.
So, on February 18th, take a moment to appreciate this distant world and all it represents!
Whether you believe Pluto should still be a planet or not, there’s no denying that it holds a special place in our cosmic history.
What’s the secret to longevity in these blue zones?
Dan Buettner
Blue Zone is a nonscientific word coined by Dan Buettner, an author who was studying areas of the world where people live exceptionally longer. It refers to the geographic regions that are home to the world’s oldest people.
As chronic diseases are becoming more common as we grow older, it is our lifestyle that plays a great impact. In this article, we will explore the common lifestyle features of the Blue Zones and why they are able to live longer.
The Five Known “Blue Zones”
They are called Blue Zones because when Buettner and his colleagues were searching these areas on the map, they drew blue circles on the map. In his book, Buettner described the Blue Zones:
Icaria (Greece): Icaria is an island in Greece where people eat a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil, red wine, and homegrown vegetables.
Ogliastra, Sardinia (Italy): The Ogliastra region of Sardinia is home to some of the oldest men in the world. They live in mountainous regions where they typically farm and drink lots of red wine.
Okinawa (Japan): Home to the world’s oldest women, who eat a variety of soy sauce based foods and practice tai chi, a meditative form of exercise.
Nicoya Peninsula (Costa Rica): The diet is composed of beans and corn tortillas. The people of this area regularly perform physical jobs at their old age and have a sense of purpose known as plan de vida.
The Seventh-day Adventists in Loma, Linda, California (USA): The Seventh-day Adventist are a very religious group of people. They are vegetarians and live in tight-knit communities.
Buettner may only discuss these places, but they are maybe unidentified areas in the world that can be considered as blue zones. Studies have found that these places contain high rates of nonagenarians and centenarians, who live up to 90 and 100 respectively.
Genetics can only account to 20% or 30% of longevity. Our environmental influences, including diet and lifestyle play a huge impact in determining our lifespan. Below are some diet and lifestyle factors that are common to people who live in these Blue Zones.
Diet and Lifestyle Factors
People who are living in the Blue Zones have one thing in common, they primarily eat a 95% plant-based diet and although they aren’t strict vegetarians, they only tend to eat meat around five times a month.
A myriad of studies have shown that avoiding processed meat and red meat can significantly reduce the risk of death from heart disease, cancer, and a number of causes. Instead, their diets are typically rich in the following:
Vegetables: A great source of fiber and many different vitamins and minerals. Eating more than five servings of fruits and vegetables a day can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, and death.
Legumes: Legumes include beans, lentils, peas, and chickpeas, which are rich in fiber and protein. A number of studies have shown that eating legumes is associated with lower mortality.
Whole grains: Rich in fiber and a high intake of whole grains can reduce blood pressure and is associated with reduced colorectal cancer and death from heart disease.
Nuts: Nuts are a great source of protein, fiber, and polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Complete with a healthy diet, they’re associated with reduced mortality and help reverse metabolic syndromes.
They are also some other dietary factors that define each of the blue zones. People in Icaria and Sardinia often eat fish, which is rich in omega-3 fats and important for heart and brain health.
80% Rule
Long-term calorie restrictions can also help with longevity. Eating fewer calories may be contributing to the longer lives in some of the Blue Zones. Before the 1960s, Okinawans were on a calorie deficit, meaning they ate less calories than they required. This eating habit contributed to living a long and healthy life.
Okinawans tend to follow the 80% rule, which they call “hara hachi bu” which means that they stop eating when they are 80% full, rather than 100%. This prevents them from overeating and increases feelings of fullness, compared to eating rapidly.
This is because hormones that make you feel full only reach their maximum blood levels twenty minutes after eating. Therefore, by eating slowly, you may feel full longer. They also eat the smallest meal in the afternoon and evening, not eating for the rest of the day.
Alcohol Consume in Moderation
Alcohol is consumed moderately. There’s mixed evidence on whether drinking alcohol in moderation reduces the risk of death. The beneficial effect of moderate alcohol consumption is depending on the type of alcohol. Red wine may be the best type of alcohol, given that there are many antioxidants in grapes. It’s very common in Icaria and Sardinia to consume two glasses of red wine per day.
Antioxidants help prevent damage to DNA that can contribute to aging. Therefore, antioxidants are very important when it comes to longevity. Wine drinkers have a healthier lifestyle, with lower blood cholesterol and sleep quality.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise is another factor when it comes to aging. It doesn’t necessarily mean going to the gym, instead it is built in their lives. Gardening, walking, cooking, and other daily chores. A study on men from Sardinia found that their longer lives were associated with raising animals, living on steeper slopes, and walking longer distances.
Exercise can reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and death. A large study including over 600,000 people found that those doing exercise had a 20% lower mortality rate than those who did no physical activity.
Good Sleep
Adequate rest and a goodnight sleep also seem to be very important for living a long and healthy life. A number of studies have found that not getting enough sleep or too much sleep can significantly increase the risk of death, including from heart disease or stroke.
Seven hours is the optimal duration. Sleeping is a lot less or a lot more than that was associated with the increased risk of death. In the blue zones, people tend to not go to work at a set time. They sleep as much as their bodies tell them too.
It’s very common to have siesta time, it can reduce the risk of heart diseases and death may even reduce these risks. The length of the nap is also important. You can nap for thirty minutes or less. More than can increase risk of heart disease and death.
What Else?
Apart from a healthy lifestyle, they also have good social support, family, and being spiritual. By incorporating these lifestyle factors into your life, it may be a chance for you to live a full and happy life.
The Philippines is land to rich natural resources and superstitious practices. From folktales to legends, Filipinos associate nature with haunted myths–especially the Balete tree.
Photo by Ram Mancelita
As a member of the Ficus family and a relative of the Banyan tree, the Balete provides shade to those who seek shelter under its huge branches.
This tree is also allegedly home to supernatural guardians, but where did this belief come from?
Here is the rich history and persisting practices relating to the Balete tree!
Supernatural History
The grandeur and the tales surrounding the tree make it an iconic element of the country’s mystical heritage.
Filipino folktales suggest that the tree has a deep-rooted connection to supernatural beings such as the kapre, a mythical tree demon, tikbalang, creatures that are half human and half horse, and the white lady–all of whom are thought to reside within it.
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Many people caution against bringing Balete parts into their homes, fearing they could attract spirits.
In certain areas, sorcery rituals are performed around the tree’s roots.
Mystical Practices
With the spiritual beliefs associated with Balete, people conduct special ceremonies around this tree.
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Its origins trace back to the Taal Lake region, where it thrived and grew rapidly. Positioned by Taal Lake, it overlooks the renowned Taal Volcano, enhancing its cultural significance as a natural wonder and reflecting the area’s historical context.
A particularly notable Balete tree can be found at the OISCA Farm in Lumapao, Canlaon, Negros Oriental.
Estimated to be around 1,328 years old, it embodies a profound connection to indigenous cultures. The tree has almost transformed into a cave, providing shelter for various animals, symbolizing its role as a sacred guardian and its link between the earth and spiritual realms.
Indigenous Roots
The fall of its sacred lore goes all the way back to Spanish colonization with priests and friars preaching against superstitions.
According to Francisco Demetrio in his essay “The Engkanto Belief,” the phenomenon in the Philippines can be linked to the decline of the Babaylan following the arrival of Christianity.
It is believed that when candidates are discovered in this state, they are already possessed by spirits, marking the beginning of their journey as mediators between humans and the spirit world.
In Francisco Ignacio Alcina’s “History of the Bisayan Islands,” the Babaylans are portrayed as if they are in a trance-like state. Adorned with self-made ornaments and gold jewelry, they remain by the Balete tree, where the spirits that have summoned them bestow gifts such as healing and clairvoyance.
Local Lore
In Central Visayas, an impressive 400-year-old tree has withstood the test of time and has become a symbol of Siquijor province.
Photo by Ram Mancelita
The Balete tree holds significant historical importance for Siquijor. During the Spanish colonial era, it served as a gathering spot for locals to voice their grievances against the colonizers. Additionally, the tree provided refuge for Filipino revolutionaries during the Philippine Revolution.
At present, the Century-Old Balete Tree on Siquijor Island is a popular destination for tourists. Its impressive age and enchanting ambiance draw numerous visitors.
The Balete tree is more than just a natural wonder–it is a site of reflection and a sacred space shared by generations of Filipinos.
We could always walk on memory lane when millennials would flock to many malls, especially around the 2010s for the goal of finding a healthier alternative. What made froyo the best option was because you can customize it to your heart’s desires, which is why the tasty, healthy dessert is back!
Remember Red Mango in Ayala and Tutti Frutti in SM? They were our go-to yogurt spots. However time has changed, new trendy dessert bars are popping up everywhere, and we’ve got you covered for your yoghurt adventure:
18 Degrees
The first item on the list is 18 Degrees, a shop owned by Cebuans. Back in 2020, the proprietors opened a frozen yogurt shop on the second floor of Verve Point in Talamban because they intended to imitate the large number of froyo shops in Manila. Additionally, it is naturally sweetened, 97–99% fat-free, and gluten-free.
The store’s name is derived from the temperature in Fahrenheit that is required to produce the soft serve’s creamy and light consistency. We can pick from the 32 toppings and revive the yogurt shop’s do-it-yourself concept. They provide a variety of frozen snacks and desserts in addition to froyo.
Exact Location: The Verve Point, Talamban, Cebu City
By Commute: You can ride a 13C or 13B Jeepney at the PagIbig Fund Office. Get off at the Skin Doctors Clinic. They’re in the same building and your location is near the University of San Carlos- Talamban Campus.
By Car: Utilizing your Waze or Google Maps, please set your destination to 18 Degrees at Gov. M. Cuenco, Banilad. There is ample parking.
Prutasan ni Adan
In addition to being a supermarket where you can purchase fresh food and fruit, Prutasan ni Adan is renowned for having the best froyo in the city. In addition to providing a nutritious cup, Prutusan ni Adan also sells premade ice cream flavors with new variations each month.
Consumers can have a freshly produced soft serve yogurt while taking a break from their shopping. There are just ten toppings available, including fresh fruits like mangoes, kiwis, and strawberries. They have two branches: one in the Banilad Town Center and the other at Tancor Residences in Barangay Kasambagan. They are available at Grab Food.
Exact Location: Tancor 1 residences Gen Lim St, Villa Aurora Kasambagan, Cebu city
By Commute: You can ride a 13C jeepney at Ayala heading to Kasambagan. Tell the driver that you are going to Tancor residences for Prutasan ni Adan.
By Car: Utilize waze or Google Maps, set your destination to Prutasan ni Adan or Tancor Residences. Parking spots are available.
Kuku by Don Machiattos
Don Macchiatos is a small coffee hub that sells coffee at an affordable price. Its success spawned several secondary businesses, including Kuku Frozen Yogurt. Kuku continues in its pursuit of its parent company for affordable products, selling their yogurt for as low as 39 pesos for a plain cup, 59 pesos if you added syrup, and 99 pesos for two toppings and syrup.
This frozen yogurt shop stands out by serving matcha-flavored froyo, which they claimed to be 100% authentic.
Exact Location: MH Aznar Street Sambag 2 Urgello, Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: You can ride a jeepney going to Urgello. Kuku is just a walking distance from the Don Macchiatos office in Urgello.
By Car: Using waze or Google Maps, please set your destination to Don Macchiatos Office. Kuku is just a walking distance away from the Don Macchiattos.
One of the newer frozen shops on the island is located in the Calyx Center at IT Park. The froyo shop opened in 2024 and it has garnered attention as one of the best yogurt shops in Cebu City. In one of the shop’s reviews: their soft serve yogurt is balanced, not too sour or sweet. It was even compared with Red Mango.
Customers can choose whether they want yogurt or matcha ice cream, with over thirty toppings to choose from, which blends well with the flavors of the froyo.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Medium (3 toppings) – Php 200.00
Large (4 toppings) – Php 230.00
Mega (5 Toppings, good for 3 to 4 people) – Php 600.00
Photo from One Central Hotel Official Facebook Page
Having a job is a blessing and can help individuals aim high with their financial plans. However, it’s essential to prioritize self-care and take time to relax and unwind. When the body is tired, it can lead to sickness, especially if warning signs are ignored.
For those seeking a rejuvenating escape, several staycation spots within twenty minutes of the oldest street in Cebu City offer high-quality services at affordable rates, such as:
ONE CENTRAL HOTEL & SUITES
Photo from One Central Hotel Official Facebook Page
One Central Highway is downtown Cebu’s premier business hotel, offering affordable luxury accommodations. The hotel welcomes the guests with the warmth of Filipino hospitality and a heart full of care — the kind of love that radiates in a Filipino home.
The hotel is situated beside Emall and across the University of Cebu campus. There are plenty of local carenderia or eateries that offer affordable and delicious food.
Photo from One Central Hotel Official Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
PROMO RATES
Photo from One Central Hotel Official Facebook PagePhoto from One Central Hotel Official Facebook Page
The GV Hotel is one of the fastest growing budget hotels in the Philippines. Its twenty-two branches are strategically located all over key places in the country. The GV Hotel Group has also become the largest provider of great value accommodations in the Philippine hospitality industry.
In 1990, the rapid expansion for Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao was just starting out and has become synonymous with quality, service, and value for money for tourists, sales agents, and the business market. The hotel caters to the basic needs of their guests while ensuring a safe stay.
Single Room – Php 1,700.00 with own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit
Standard Mat – Php 2,300.00 with own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit
Standard Twin – Php 2,300.00 with own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit
Deluxe Mat – Php 3,000.00 with city view, own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit
Deluxe Twin – Php 3,000.00 with city view, own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit
Deluxe Terrace Mat – Php 3,850.00 with balcony and city view, own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit
Deluxe Terrace Twin – Php 3,850.00 with balcony and city view, own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit
Deluxe Family for 3 Pax – Php 4,350.00 with own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit
Family Room for 5 Pax – Php 3,850.00 with own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit, however, it has no direct access to the elevator
Family Room for 8 Pax – Php 6,150.00 with own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit, however, it has no direct access to the elevator
Family Room for 10 Pax – Php 7,700.00 with own aircon, hot/cold shower, TV, private CR, and bathroom kit, however, it has no direct access to the elevator
Exact Location: Osmena Blvd. Corner Sanciangko St. Cebu City, Cebu, 6000, Philippines
By Commute: You can ride a 17C jeepney. The route of the jeepney is from Carbon to Apas and passes by GV Tower. GV Tower is just across One Central Hotel and the University of Cebu- Main Campus.
By Car: Please set your destination to GV Tower on Waze or Google Maps. Parking spots are available.
Looking for an ideal family-friendly hotel in Cebu City does not have to be difficult. Guest rooms are easy to book and Summit Galleria makes it easy for their visitors to access wifi online since free wifi is available. Guests can also take advantage of the added amenities offered by the hotel. They can enjoy the pool and also eat in an on-site restaurant. For convenience, there’s free parking.
Palm Grass Hotel offers their guests an array of room amenities including a minibar and air conditioning while also getting online easily. The hotel also offers a 24 hours front desk, room service, and 24 hour check in to make your visit even more pleasant. The hotel also has a fitness center and an on-site restaurant.
Exact Location: 68 General Junquera Street Barangay Kalubihan, Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: From 138 Mall, take a stroll heading to the Cosmopolitan Funeral Homes which is just a few steps across the mall. From there, you’ll pass by an apartment and a Corndog station where you can find the Palm Grass hotel located next to it.
By Car: Please set your destination to Palm Grass Hotel and make use of Waze or Google Maps.
Sampaguita Suites
Photo from Sampaguita Suites Plaza GarciaOfficial Facebook PagePhoto from Sampaguita Suites Plaza GarciaOfficial Facebook PagePhoto from Sampaguita Suites Plaza GarciaOfficial Facebook Page
The Sampaguita Suites is located a short distance from the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral and also Colon Street. Rooms at Sampaguita Suites offer air conditioning providing exceptional comfort and convenience. Wifi is also easily accessible and free.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Photo from One Central Hotel Official Facebook Page
As the Archdiocese of Cebu embraces the spirit of the Jubilee Year, a remarkable opportunity awaits the faithful: the Pilgrim Passport.
This unique spiritual guide is a companion for those embarking on a transformative journey through the designated Jubilee Churches.
With each stamp and prayer, believers will not only deepen their faith but also connect with the history that these sacred sites embody.
What is the Pilgrim Passport?
This Jubilee year, Cebu Commission on Worship (COW) and the Cebu Archdiocesan Digital Communications Ministry (CADComM) spearheaded the initiative on the spiritual guide.
The Pilgrim Passport, also known as the “credencial,” is an official document issued by a recognized pilgrim organization.
To enhance spiritual growth, the Pilgrim Passport is linked with the Hallow App, a global prayer platform.
By scanning the QR code located inside the cover, pilgrims can access a selection of prayers and reflections for a deeper and more prayerful experience, voiced by Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma himself.
This passport may be used in the Churches across Cebu.
Where are the Jubilee Churches located?
In Cebu, the Jubilee Churches are divided into different districts across the province.
Here are the Churches across the province:
Metro Cebu North
Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
Basilica Minore del Santo Niño
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Saint Therese of the Child Jesus
Parish and National Shrine of Virgen de Regla, Lapu-Lapu City
Metro Cebu South
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of San Nicolas de Tolentino
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Minglanilla
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Saint Francis of Assisi in Naga City
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Teresa de Avila, Talisay City
Southeast Cebu
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Saint Catherine of Alexandria in Carcar City
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Saint Michael Archangel in Argao
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Patrocinio de Maria in Boljoon
Parish of San Guillermo de Aquitania in Dalaguete
Southwest Cebu
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Saint Anne in Barili
Parish of Saint Gregory the Great in Ginatilan
Parish of Saint Francis of Assisi in Dumanjug
Parish of Saint Francis Xavier in Alegria
Northwest Cebu
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Saint John of Sahagun in Toledo City
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of San Antonio de Padua in Tuburan
Parish of Saint Francis of Assisi in Balamban
Parish of Santa Lucia in Asturias
Far North Cebu
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of San Vicente Ferrer in Bogo City
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima in Daanbantayan
Parish of Saint Peter in Bantayan
Mid-North and Near North Cebu
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Santiago in Compostela
Parish of Santo Tomas de Villanueva in Danao City
Parish of Saint Joseph in San Francisco (Camotes)
Parish and National Shrine of Saint Joseph in Mandaue City
Parish and Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Mandaue City
This passport gets stamped at pilgrimage sites as proof of visits to the Jubilee Churches.
Stamps are given at the Parish Offices before leaving the pilgrimage sites–a total of 15 visits warrants a Certificate and a token from the Church.
Where to Get the Passports?
For interested pilgrims, here are the locations where you can avail of the Pilgrim Passport:
You can get information at the respective Parish Office of the designated Jubilee Churches.
Information is available at the Commission on Worship, located on Legazpi St. beside Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral in Cebu City.
You can also visit the Archbishop’s Office at 234 D. Jakosalem St. in Cebu City for more information.
How to Avail the Stamps and Certificate?
The Pilgrim Passport may be used by following these instructions:
Pilgrims may stamp their passports at the Parish Office after each church visit, where the stamps are unique for every church.
To obtain the Pilgrimage Certificate, pilgrims must complete a form to be posted by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cebu and include photos of the passport’s biographical page along with the pages displaying the collected stamps.
Pilgrims who visit a minimum of 15 Jubilee Churches can request the Pilgrimage Certificate.
Those who visit all 31 Jubilee Churches will be awarded an additional token.
Embrace this opportunity to reflect, pray, and grow in faith, making your pilgrimage a memorable and profound experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned pilgrim or a first-time visitor, this initiative promises to enrich your spiritual journey in profound ways.
So, what are you waiting for? Inquire about the Pilgrim Passport at your nearest Parish Office now!
Rabies is a vaccine-preventable viral disease that affects the central nervous system. Ninety-nine cases of human rabies cases are caused by dogs and children between the age of five and fourteen are frequent victims.
Rabies can also infect mammals, including dogs, cats, livestock, and wildlife. It can also be spread via saliva usually through bites, scratches or a direct contact from the eyes, mouth or an open wound. Once symptoms appear, it is 100% fatal.This is also considered a neglected tropical disease affecting the marginalized population. Although we have vaccines that are effective for rabies, these are often inaccessible or unaffordable for those in need.
What are the Symptoms?
The incubation period is typically 2-3 months but may vary from one week to one year depending on the factors such as the location of the virus entry and viral load. Initial symptoms include fever, pain, and unusual or unexplained tingling on the wound site. If you ever get bitten by a cat or dog, please wash and disinfect the wound with soap and water and bandage the wound afterwards, then go directly to the hospital for an anti-rabies vaccine.
Two Types of Rabies Cases
Furious rabies: hyperactivity, excitable behavior, hallucinations, lack of coordination, fear of water and aerophobia. Death occurs a few days due to cardio-respiratory arrest.
Paralytic rabies: this form of rabies is longer and less dramatic. Twenty percent of the total number of human cases were caused by Paralytic rabies. Muscles gradually become paralysed, starting from the wound site. A coma slowly develops then death occurs eventually.
How to Prevent Rabies?
Vaccinating Dogs
Vaccinating dogs, including puppies through mass dog vaccination programs is the most cost-effective strategy for preventing rabies in people because it stops the transmission at its source.
Awareness
Public education for both children and adults on dog behaviour and bite prevention like what we should do when bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal, responsible pet ownership are essential extensions of rabies vaccination programmes.
Vaccinating People
Effective vaccines are available to immunize people both before and after potential exposures.
Cebu Statistics
In 2024, rabies cases surged by fifty percent in Cebu City. Half of 170,000 dogs are yet to be vaccinated. In the first half of 2024, DVMF already logged 13 cases, which almost doubled the seven cases that they recorded during 2023.
According to the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries, there are sanctions for pet owners with unvaccinated pets. Owners of unvaccinated dogs may be fined with P2,000. If a dog bites someone and dies, the owner may be fined with P5,000. This P5,000 fine is also imposed on owners whose pet dog tested positive for rabies.
Governor Gwen Garcia signs Memorandum No. 13-2025, mandating the Cebu Provincial Health Office and all 16 Capitol-run Provincial and District Hospitals to provide Anti-Rabies vaccines from one to four shots for free on February 6, 2025.
Philippines Statistics
Rabies is also a significant health concern in our country, with cases increasing every year. Here are some key statistical findings:
The Philippines is ranked sixth globally for rabies cases.
In 2023, there was a concerning increase in both cases and fatalities with fifty-five cases compared to fifty-one the previous year.
Most rabies cases in 2023 occurred in people aged 20 to 59.
72% of rabies cases in 2023 were in men.
In 2018, the Greater Manila Area and Region IV-B accounted for 23.61% and 1.3% of human rabies cases, respectively.
