José Rizal’s final moments remain one of history’s most striking examples of courage. As the day of his execution approached, he showed a remarkable steadiness that set him apart from others in similar situations.
Calm Before the End
Photo from Wikipedia
Moments before his execution, a Spanish surgeon general checked Rizal’s pulse, finding it steady and normal. This moment revealed his extraordinary courage and mental control under extreme circumstances.
Unshakable Resolve
Rizal faced the firing squad without hesitation. Unlike many in his position, his body showed no sign of fear. His calmness reflected his preparation and inner strength, demonstrating a rare serenity in the face of death.
The Final Moment
Photo grab from Google Maps
As soldiers prepared for the execution, Rizal remained composed. His steady pulse symbolized more than physical calmness; it reflected his dedication to his ideals. The scene captured both the gravity of the event and his remarkable fortitude.
Enduring Legacy
Photo from National Historical Commission of the Philippines
Rizal’s poise in his final moments has remained a defining image of courage. It continues to inspire admiration and respect, emphasizing the power of conviction and the strength of character even in life’s most extreme tests.
Lean & Learn Health Foundation, a U.S.-based nonprofit founded by Cebuano nurses Lan Cabatingan and his wife, transformed a personal three-month NICU experience into a focused outreach for families facing neonatal care. The journey shaped the foundation’s commitment to practical, hospital-based support.
Support for Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center
The foundation donated 5,364 pieces of diapers to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu City. The donation directly benefits premature and critically ill newborns who rely on constant care and steady supplies.
Responding to Daily Hospital Needs
The visit highlighted daily pressures inside the NICU, including limited supplies and demanding nurse-to-patient ratios. Diapers remain a constant need, often covered out of pocket by staff. The donation helps close this gap and supports safer, cleaner care for infants.
Building Long-Term NICU Support
This initiative marks the foundation’s continuing commitment to NICU communities in Cebu. Lean & Learn Health Foundation aims to sustain support through donations, partnerships, and volunteer engagement with local healthcare units.
Media Contact and Outreach
For interviews, volunteer coordination, and partnerships, reach Lean & Learn Health Foundation via email at [email protected]. Direct contact is also available through Facebook and Instagram at Lean & Learn Health Foundation and @leanlearnhealthfoundation.
Bantayan Island is a haven for sun, sand, and serenity. Beyond the usual tourist spots, the island hides stretches of white sand, calm waters, and quiet corners that feel untouched. Whether you’re chasing a long walk along a sandbar, a hidden paradise, or a cozy cabana by the sea, these beaches promise a slice of tropical bliss.
1. Kota Beach – Walk Along the Shapeshifting Sandbar
Photo grab from Google Maps
Kota Beach is the iconic stretch of white sand in Sta. Fe, known for its long, ever-changing sandbar ideal for morning walks and paddleboarding. The beach is lined with resorts and eateries, making it easy to spend the whole day here.
How To Get There?
Location: Kota Beach, Santa Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu
By Car: From Cebu City, drive north via the Cebu North Road toward Hagnaya Port in San Remigio. Travel time is around 4–5 hours, depending on traffic. At Hagnaya Port, board a RoRo ferry to Santa Fe Port, which takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive at Santa Fe Port, Kota Beach is only 5–10 minutes away by car or tricycle. Some resorts, including Kota Beach Resort, offer free or paid port transfers—it’s best to confirm in advance.
By Commute: From Cebu City North Bus Terminal, take a Ceres bus or van bound for Hagnaya Port. The trip takes approximately 4–5 hours. At Hagnaya, ride a passenger ferry to Santa Fe Port (around 1 hour). From the port, you can take a tricycle to Kota Beach, which is a short ride. Select resorts along the beach may provide scheduled pick-up services from the port during daytime hours.
Photo grab from Google Maps
2. Paradise Beach (Sandira Beach) – Hidden Peace
Photo grab from Google Maps
Paradise Beach, also called Sandira Beach, is a secluded spot perfect for relaxing under coconut palms, swimming in clear waters, or snorkeling. It charges a small entrance fee and is best during the dry season (February to May) for calm seas.
How to Get There?
Location: Paradise Beach (Sandira Beach), Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu
By Car:From Sta. Fe town proper, drive north toward Barangay Okoy. The trip takes about 10–15 minutes. Parking is available near the beach entrance, after which you’ll walk a short footpath to reach the shore. The access road is narrow in some sections, so drive carefully.
By Commute: From Sta. Fe town proper, take a tricycle or habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) going to Paradise Beach or Sandira Beach. Travel time is around 10–15 minutes. You’ll be dropped off near the entrance, followed by a short walk along a footpath to the beach. Wearing comfortable footwear is recommended.
Photo grab from Google Maps
3. Amihan Beach – Serene Cabanas by the Sea
Photo grab from Google Maps
Amihan Beach is a boutique escape with bamboo cabanas and a calm, intimate atmosphere. Its simple, Filipino-inspired design blends with the tropical surroundings, offering spectacular sunrises and quiet mornings for swimming or reading by the shore.
How to Get There?
Location: Amihan Beach Resort, Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu
By Car: From Sta. Fe town proper, drive toward the beach area near Kota Beach. Amihan Beach Resort is located along the same coastal strip, just a few minutes from the town center. Travel time is about 5–10 minutes. Limited parking is available near the resort, so it’s best to arrive early during peak season.
By Commute:From Sta. Fe town proper or Santa Fe Port, take a tricycle going to Amihan Beach Resort or simply say Kota Beach area, as it is a well-known landmark nearby. The ride takes around 5–10 minutes. From the drop-off point, it’s a short walk to the beachfront.
Photo grab from Google Maps
Bantayan is more than a postcard-perfect island, it’s a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and explore beaches that feel like your own secret hideaway. Whether it’s the long sandbar at Kota, the hidden charm of Paradise Beach, or the serene cabanas of Amihan, each destination offers a distinct experience that will stay with you long after the sun sets.
The Filipino New Year is more than a festive gathering, as it is deeply rooted in traditions that welcome luck, prosperity, and togetherness. Through carefully chosen dishes served during Media Noche, families express their hopes for a fruitful and harmonious year ahead.
A Lucky Start to the Year
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Media Noche is a midnight feast shared with loved ones as the New Year begins. The foods prepared are believed to influence the months ahead, making the table a symbol of optimism and abundance.
Fruits That Invite Prosperity
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Twelve round fruits are a New Year staple, with each fruit representing one month of abundance. Apples, grapes, oranges, and melons resemble coins and reflect the wish for steady wealth throughout the year.
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Dishes That Represent Wealth and Plenty
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Pork dishes, especially lechon, symbolize abundance and a well-provided life. Green vegetables such as cabbage and leafy greens are linked to money and financial growth, while spring rolls and dumplings resemble gold bars and money pouches.
Food for Long Life and Good Health
Pancit is always present on the New Year table, with long noodles symbolizing a long and healthy life. Eggs are added to represent renewal, continuity, and fresh beginnings.
Meals That Strengthen Family Bonds
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Sticky rice cakes known as kakanin, including biko, suman, and bibingka, reflect the idea of good luck staying close. Their shared texture also represents unity and stronger family ties.
Foods Traditionally Avoided
Chicken and certain fish are often skipped because they scratch or scavenge for food, which is associated with hardship. Many families choose alternatives like shrimp dishes such as camaron rebosado to keep the symbolism positive.
Traditions That Complete the Feast
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Media Noche brings families together at midnight to share food and welcome the New Year. Wearing polka dots is also common, as circular patterns resemble coins and attract prosperity.
Photo from Pexels.com
Welcoming the Year with Hope
Traditional New Year foods reflect Filipino values of family, resilience, and optimism. By honoring these customs, families begin the year with shared meals, meaningful symbols, and hopeful intentions for the future.
A recent study published in the Journal of Psychosexual Health suggests that women who rarely have sex may have a higher risk of dying earlier than those who are sexually active at least once a week. The research analyzed long-term health data from thousands of adults in the United States.
Study Based on National Health Data
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Researchers examined data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey collected between 2005 and 2010. The study followed 14,542 adults aged 20 to 59 and tracked all-cause mortality outcomes through 2015.
How Often Participants Had Sex
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Participants reported how many times they had vaginal or anal sex in the previous year. Researchers compared people who had sex less than once per week with those who had sex at least once weekly.
Higher Mortality Risk for Women
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The results showed that women who had sex less than once a week had a 70 percent higher risk of all-cause mortality during the follow-up period, even after adjusting for health and lifestyle factors.
Depression Amplifies the Risk
Among participants with depression, those who rarely had sex showed nearly a threefold increase in mortality risk compared to depressed individuals who had sex about once per week. This indicates that sexual activity may be closely linked to both mental and physical health.
Health Benefits Linked to Regular Sex
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Regular sexual activity has been associated with reduced stress, better mood, improved sleep, and better cardiovascular function. The study also found that people with low sexual frequency tended to have higher levels of inflammation in the body.
Once a Week May Be the Sweet Spot
The findings suggest that having sex about once per week may be enough to gain potential health benefits. Having sex more frequently did not show additional reductions in mortality risk.
Different Effects for Men
The study noted that sexual frequency may affect men and women differently. Very high sexual frequency in men was associated with increased mortality risk, showing that balance may be important.
Important Context to Remember
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The study does not prove that sex directly increases lifespan. Poor health can reduce sexual activity, which may partly explain the association. Relationship quality and sexual satisfaction were not included in the analysis.
The findings highlight sexual health as an important part of overall well-being and suggest it may deserve more attention in public health discussions, especially for women and people experiencing depression.
Fireworks are fun for humans, but terrifying for pets. Dogs, cats, and even small animals like rabbits have sensitive hearing, making loud booms overwhelming. Signs of stress include trembling, hiding, panting, pacing, whining, or destructive behavior. Avoid scolding; focus on creating calm and comfort.
Prepare a Safe Space
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Set up a cozy indoor area away from windows and doors. Use a quiet room, add familiar bedding, toys, and water. Playing soft music or white noise can help mask fireworks, and adding a piece of your clothing can provide extra comfort through your scent.
Exercise and Routine
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Take dogs for a walk and allow bathroom breaks before fireworks begin. Burning off energy beforehand can help pets relax. Keep routines consistent to reduce anxiety, especially on noisy nights.
Keep Pets Indoors and Secure
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All pets should stay inside during celebrations. Close windows and curtains, and check that doors and fences are secure. Make sure ID tags and microchip information are up to date in case your pet panics and tries to escape.
Distract and Comfort
Provide toys, puzzle feeders, or treats to divert attention. Use calming aids like anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers, or vet-approved supplements if needed. Maintain a calm demeanor to reassure pets without over-coddling.
After the Fireworks
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Check your yard for leftover debris and remove anything dangerous. Monitor pets for continued stress or unusual behavior and offer comfort as they recover from the night’s events.
Party Precautions
Keep food, alcohol, and chocolate out of reach. Guests should avoid giving table scraps, and doors should be watched carefully during comings and goings to prevent escapes.
Avoid exposing pets to fireworks if possible. Staying home with them in a secure, calm space is the best way to manage anxiety. Preparing in advance and following these steps ensures your furbabies start the New Year safe and stress-free.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, fireworks remain a popular way to welcome the year ahead with light and excitement. While these displays can add joy and color to the celebration, improper use can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and fires. Understanding and following basic firework safety guidelines is essential to ensure that the festivities remain fun, memorable, and safe for everyone involved.
Fireworks can make New Year’s Eve celebrations exciting, but safety should always come first. Only use fireworks if they are legal in your area, and make sure an experienced adult supervises the activity. Buy fireworks from reputable dealers and read the instructions carefully before lighting them. Keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby, light fireworks one at a time, and dispose of them as directed.
Avoid Firework Hazards
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Young children should never handle fireworks, including sparklers, which can burn as hot as 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid drinking alcohol while using fireworks, and never light them indoors or near other objects. Stand back immediately after lighting and never point fireworks at people. Avoid loose clothing, do not carry fireworks in pockets, and never set them off in glass or metal containers.
Prevent Fires and Injuries
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Do not light fireworks near homes or fire-prone areas. Never touch fireworks that have already been lit or failed to ignite. Prepare water or a fire extinguisher before lighting fireworks and take note of your nearest fire station in case of emergencies.
Clean Up Safely
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After the celebrations, do not immediately pick up fireworks that did not ignite. Avoid relighting partially used fireworks and always pour water on used or unused firecrackers before disposing of them. These steps prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.
Respond Quickly to Accidents
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In the event of a fire or injury, contact local authorities immediately. Quick action can prevent small accidents from turning into serious emergencies, ensuring a safe and happy New Year’s Eve for everyone.
Cebu isn’t just about white sand beaches and vibrant city life. Hidden in its highlands are majestic mountains offering everything from breathtaking sunrises and sea-of-clouds views to peaceful escapes from the busy streets. Whether you’re a first-time hiker or a seasoned adventurer, these six mountains in Cebu promise unique landscapes, Instagram-worthy vistas, and unforgettable experiences.
1. Casino Peak (Lugsangan Peak)
Photo grab from Google Maps
Casino Peak (aka Lugsangan Peak) is a mountain with rolling limestone mounds that rival Bohol’s Chocolate Hills. Less crowded than Osmeña Peak, it offers dramatic views of hills and the Tañon Strait. A favorite for those seeking adventure and serenity in one hike.
By car: Drive south via Cebu South Road to Sitio Lugsangan, Barangay Tabon, Dalaguete, and park near the village.
By commute: Take a southbound bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal to Dalaguete, then hire a habal‑habal to Sitio Lugsangan.
2. Mount Mago
Photo grab from Google Maps
Mount Mago is beginner-friendly, featuring gentle hills and large open grasslands. It’s known for the rare landmark where Carmen, Danao, and Tuburan meet and occasional magical sea-of-clouds views at sunrise.
How To Get There?
Location: Barangay Santican, Danao City, near Santican National High School.
By car: Drive north on Cebu North Road to Carmen, then follow signs to Barangay Santican.
By commute: From Cebu North Bus Terminal, take a bus to Carmen Public Market, then hire a habal‑habal to Barangay Santican (~₱100–₱120).
3. Mount Naupa
Photo grab from Google Maps
Mount Naupa is ideal for first-timers. Its grassy summit provides sweeping city and countryside views, cool breezes, and a peaceful campsite perfect for sunrise or sunset.
How To Get There?
Location: City of Naga, Cebu, Philippines
By car: Drive south via N. Bacalso Avenue to Naga City, then pin “Mt. Naupa / Cogon Chapel” on Maps for the trailhead.
By commute: Take a southbound bus to Naga City, get off near South General Hospital, then hire a habal‑habal to Barangay Cogon.
4. Mount Kan‑Irag
Photo grab from Google Maps
Closest to the metro, Mount Kan-Irag offers city-to-ridge views and varied trails, from easy paths to more technical climbs. It’s perfect for hikers wanting a quick adventure without leaving Cebu City.
How To Get There?
Location: Barangay Sirao, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By car: Drive to Barangay Toong / Sirao, park near the trailhead.
By commute: Take a jeepney or taxi to Sirao, then walk or hire a short habal‑habal to the trail start.
5. Osmeña Peak
Photo grab from Google Maps
Cebu’s highest peak at ~1,013 meters, Osmeña Peak boasts jagged limestone formations, cool temperatures, and panoramic coastal views. A must-visit classic, it’s both tourist-friendly and awe-inspiring.
By car: Drive south to Dalaguete, then follow signs to Barangay Mantalongon for the jump-off.
By commute: From Cebu City, take a bus to Mantalongon (last stop), then ride a habal‑habal to the trailhead.
6. Mount Magdook
Photo from Armon Abrinica
Mount Magdook is a quieter alternative to Mt. Naupa, offering peaceful trails and open vistas. While it lacks a formal campsite, it’s perfect for quick hikes and scenic photography.
How To Get There?
Location: City of Naga, Cebu, Philippines
By car: Drive via N. Bacalso Avenue to Naga City, then navigate to Tungkop / Pangilatan area.
By commute: Take a bus to Naga City / Tungkop, then hire a habal‑habal to the trailhead.
Cebu’s mountains offer more than just a hike, they’re a chance to see a different side of the island. From beginner-friendly trails like Mount Mago and Mount Naupa to iconic peaks like Osmeña and paradise like Casino Peak, there’s something for every adventurer. So lace up your hiking shoes, bring your camera, and explore the highlands of Cebu, you’ll return with memories as breathtaking as the views.
Mercado Peak, located in Upper Sampig, Mantalongon, Dalaguete, Cebu, offers a peaceful retreat from city life. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, this mountain destination is ideal for those seeking quiet and relaxation.
Cool Breezes and Scenic Views
Photo from Hazel Assuncion
The peak provides refreshing cool air and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy sweeping landscapes, watch clouds drift by, and feel a sense of calm away from the busy streets below.
Perfect for Outdoor Activities
Photo from Hazel Assuncion
Mercado Peak is well-suited for camping, stargazing, or catching the sunrise. Open spaces make it easy to set up tents, enjoy picnics, and spend time in nature. Nighttime offers clear skies perfect for observing stars.
A Family-Friendly Adventure
Photo from Hazel Assuncion
This mountain hideaway is suitable for friends and families alike. Whether hiking to the summit or relaxing in the fresh air, Mercado Peak provides an accessible and memorable outdoor experience for all ages.
By Car: From Dalaguete town proper, visitors can reach Mantalongon via local roads. The journey leads to Upper Sampig, where trails guide guests to the peak. The area is ideal for those seeking an easy escape without traveling far from Cebu.
By Commute: Ride a bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal to Dalaguete and tell the driver or conductor to drop you off Mantalongon.
On September 30, 2025, a 6.9-magnitude earthquake hit northern Cebu, destroying thousands of homes and affecting over 171,000 people.
Even in the chaos, Cebuanos quickly helped each other. Local governments, volunteers, and neighbors worked together to rescue families and provide aid. (pia.gov.ph)
Typhoon Hits — Spirit Doesn’t Break
Photo from Analisa Maratas
Just as recovery began, Typhoon Tino brought heavy rains and floods, causing more damage. (philstar.com)
Despite the challenges, Cebuanos showed resilience. Aid came from all over, NGOs, government agencies, and even private citizens stepped in to help. (ceci.org)
Cebuanos Helping Cebuanos
Photo from Capitol PIO
Cities like Davao sent food and volunteers to help families in need. (sunstar.com.ph)
Students built apps and websites to connect victims with resources. (gmanetwork.com)
Organizations like the Red Cross provided food, medical aid, and temporary shelters. (ifrc.org)
Even with so many challenges, the community never gave up.
Christmas in Cebu, A Celebration of Heart
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This year, Cebu’s Christmas is different. It’s not about big parties or gifts, it’s about people coming together:
Families and neighbors helping each other rebuild homes.
Volunteers continuing to provide food, support, and hope.
The spirit of “bayanihan” turning disaster into a reason to celebrate community.
In 2025, Cebu will have one of the most meaningful Christmases, because it’s about love, care, and the strong heart of its people.
The True Gift of Christmas
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Cebu’s disasters left scars, but they also revealed courage and kindness. This Christmas, the province shines, not with lights alone, but with the warmth of its people helping each other.
