“Everyday is a bank account and our currency is time”
Photo by Canva
Everyone knows what this red envelope is all about but not a lot of people know the legend behind its symbolic status. What is an “Ang pao” and how did Filipinos start giving them away? In this article, we will find out more information about this iconic red envelope.
While not everyone in the country has Chinese descent, a lot of us do have cultural practices according to Lunar New Year—popularly known as Chinese New Year for the general population and the giving of angpao. But where did this all start?
The Legend Behind It All
Giving away money isn’t exactly a Chinese cultural practice but there’s an interesting story behind the red envelope. Have you heard about the legend of the demon Sui who preys on sleeping, innocent children during the Lunar New Year.
In an attempt to keep their child safe, a couple tried to keep their son’s eyes awake the whole night. However, the son’s eyes continued to droop more, regardless of their efforts. To protect their sleeping son, the mother snuck eight gold coins in a red envelope, so when the demon came to attack the child, the eight gold coins were disguised as the Eight Legendary Immortals and ended up blinding the demon with its piercing light.
Color, Design, and Significance
Photo by Canva
The color red is traditionally a representative of good fortune, energy, and blessings. Wrapping money in this color means that you’re wishing the recipient of all of those to the one who accepts. Its design also has some importance; the decoration on the angpao can hold many different wishes you have for the recipient, such as a long life, good health, prosperity, and general good luck.
However, there are also a few things that need to be avoided when putting the red envelope together. Denominations with the number 4 must be avoided, because “4” means death in Chinese. Putting coins in the red envelope is a big no-no since heavy coins can cause its material to tear.
The Pao Giving
Photo by Canva
There are also rules for who receives red envelope and how much should it be given:
Historically, the main recipients of getting a red envelope are elderly parents with grown kids and young children. The elderly parents are supposed to receive more money as a sign of best wishes from their older children and young kids receive it from their parents and grandparents to wish them good luck for the year to come.
It’s Not Angpao Season All The Time
For people who are wealthy and live comfortably, the angpao season never stops. However, if you are not in a financial position to do so (don’t force it). It’s okay to give a smaller amount or hold out until next year. Not everyone can give as much as they want, it’s not strictly necessary anymore.
When someone gives you an angpao, show thanks to whoever gives it to you by trying your best in living incredibly. Give back those positive energies to people who absolutely deserve it and make them happy.
Food is always a universal currency that many people can relate to whether it is cooking a home cooked meal at home or eating in a restaurant, it’s always that intimate gesture where people talk and connect to each other when eating and catching up on the latest updates in their lives.
Stepping into the Negros islands is like being on the crossroads of Filipino, Chinese, Spanish, and distinctly Negrense cuisines. Nothing is more drool-worthy when tasting their Chicken Inasal, lechon flavored with Batwan, a souring agent in Panay and Negros; together with their empanada and lumpia that has a touch of negrense flair. However, in this article, we will be exploring their Chinese cuisines and restaurants where we can celebrate Chinese New Year together:
Golden Fortune Seafood Restaurant
Photo from Golden Fortune Seafood Restaurant
The Golden Fortune Seafood Restaurant is a Chinatown classic casual dining restaurant where people love to reminisce about the fresh, delicious, and authentic Hong Kong dining experience. The restaurant features a diverse and authentic selection of Chinese to make their guests feel at home with their warm and cozy atmosphere.
Photo from Golden Fortune Seafood Restaurant
It even gets better as they serve live seafood in their well-maintained aquarium, with a varied must-try Ala Carte meñu, Shabu Shabu, a wide array of dimsum and delectable congees and many more. It’s giving “Pastilan! Kalami!”
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Photo from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PagePhoto from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PagePhoto from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PagePhoto from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PagePhoto from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PagePhoto from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PagePhoto from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PagePhoto from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PagePhoto from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PagePhoto from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook Page
SETS
Menu from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PageMenu from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PageMenu from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook PageMenu from the Golden Fortune Restaurant 福順樓 – Bacolod City Official Facebook Page
Exact Location: Luxur Place Hotel Cor. Magsaysay Lacson Ext., Bacolod City, Philippines
By Car: Navigate using Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to Golden Fortune Seafood Restaurant in Bacolod.
By Commute: From CV Ramos Drive, turn right heading to Taculing Road that intersects towards Magsaysay Avenue. Just a few kilometers, you’ll reach Lacson Street where the restaurant is located.
Shaobao Chinese Restaurant
Photo from Shaobao Chinese Restaurant
If you’re in Dumaguete City, you’ve got to check out Shaobao Restaurant on Siliman Ave Ext! This charming spot serves up a delicious range of Chinese dishes, from flavorful noodles to mouthwatering fried and steamed siopao, plus dumplings—both fried and boiled.
Photo from Shaobao Chinese RestaurantPhoto from Shaobao Chinese Restaurant
By Car: Navigate using Waze and Google Maps and set your destination to Shaobao restaurant.
By Commute: From the Ninoy Aquino Freedom Park, take the Negros South Road going to the Siliman University Church and continue walking til you reach San Juan Street where you’ll find restaurant.
Fat Choi Chinese Restaurant
Photo from Fat Choi Chinese Restaurant Official Facebook Page
If you’re craving delicious Chinese food, you’ve got to check out Fat Choi Chinese Restaurant! Tucked away in the Art District of Lopues Mandalagan, this spot specializes in takeout and delivery of all your favorite dishes. Just look for the eye-catching red and black exterior—it’s hard to miss!
Photo from Fat Choi Chinese Restaurant Official Facebook Page
Despite its small size, Fat Choi is making a big splash with its menu. Whether you’re in the mood for some classic dumplings or savory stir-fries, there’s something for everyone.
Photo from Fat Choi Chinese Restaurant Official Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Photo from Fat Choi Chinese Restaurant Official Facebook PagePhoto from Fat Choi Chinese Restaurant Official Facebook PagePhoto from Fat Choi Chinese Restaurant Official Facebook Page
Exact Location: The Art District, Lopues Mandalagan, Negros Occidental
By Car: Navigate using Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to Fat Choi Restaurant in Negros Occidental.
Apollo Restaurant
Nothing tastes more delicious than a Chinese food tray!
Photo from Apollo Restaurant
Apollo restaurant is a restaurant that has been selling Chinese food trays and catering since 1969. It is one of the best Chinese restaurants in Bacolod for many people to try. They have a separate menu for vegetarian and meat dishes in their catering services which we can request from the restaurant staff.
To know more details, you can reach out to them in the respective social media pages.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Photo from Apollo Restaurant Hilado – Capitol Shopping Official Facebook PagePhoto from Apollo Restaurant Hilado – Capitol Shopping Official Facebook PagePhoto from Apollo Restaurant Hilado – Capitol Shopping Official Facebook PagePhoto from Apollo Restaurant Hilado – Capitol Shopping Official Facebook Page
OTHER INFORMATION
Contact Number: 4354732 l 09616036774 l 09175771899
By Commute: At the crossing of Makiling St and Circumferential Road, take the route passing by Artillery Philippines until you reach the Immaculate Conception Parish and Shrine. From there, walk towards Fr. Gratian Murray AFSC Street until you’ll reach a curve where the restaurant is located.
By Car: In Bacolod, navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Irene Building” or the Apollo Restaurant Hilado-Capitol Shopping” as your destination.
Steam Kitchen
Photo from Steam Kitchen Official Facebook Page
Steam Kitchen is a Chinese restaurant that sells a variety of dumplings. So, why not? Everyone loves dumplings. The menu has also been updated with rice topping meals, soup, noodles platter and noodle soup. Go try them now!
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Photo from Steam Kitchen Facebook PagePhoto from Steam Kitchen Facebook PagePhoto from Steam Kitchen Facebook PagePhoto from Steam Kitchen Facebook PagePhoto from Steam Kitchen Facebook PagePhoto from Steam Kitchen Facebook Page
By Car: Navigate using Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to Steam Kitchen in Negros Occidental.
By Commute: From the corner of Osmena Avenue and Western Nautical Highway, take the route going to Montinola Street heading to the J&T Express Victorias Warehouse. From there, turn right once you arrive at the corner of Debby’s Haus, then left at the first cross street. The restaurant will be located at the right side of the street.
Liloan is bordered on the northern part of Cebu by the town of Compostela, to the west of Cebu City, and the south of town in Consolacion. It is 18 kilometers from the city of Cebu. Not known to many locals and tourists, there’s a scenic spot that can serve as your tranquil escape and a perfect destination to chill, reflect, and reconnect to nature. A hidden gem away from the busy city and the best place to have a picnic or go camping.
There’s not many articles talking about this underrated space—however, the scenic spot has a YouTube channel that occasionally promotes the place and also a Facebook page that focuses on local travels.
Photo from Fatima C. De Leon
What to do?
Even though this underrated haven isn’t known to many people, there are a lot of activities that you can do in this tranquil escape. Apollo grounds is also a great place to have a picnic with your family and friends since the place offers scenic views of the sea,city lights, and also the mountains. You can relax and smell the fresh breeze by escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. Lastly, we can go car camping and try their coffee and pizza at Coffee Madness. This place has many things to offer for a beautiful piece of land.
A year of classic hairdos with an elevated sense of style
Photo from Pixabay
Leave the year 2024 with a new hairdo to update your entire look and birth a new beginning. Luckily, we got you guys covered as hair trends continue to dominate every year, and for 2025, we’re heading to elevated classics:
Ultra Short Bobs
Photo from Pixabay
People are getting bolder this year as they’re leaning into a shorter version of a bob. According to celebrity hairstylist, Jacob Rozenberg, they used to cut other people’s hair just grazing the shoulder but they have also seen other people go big. Bobs have always been a go-to hairdo during the year 2024, but a celebrity inspiration we could go for is the actress Lily Collins, where the bob hits the chin for a cool french girl look.
Side Parts
Millennials rejoice! We got a comeback!
Photo from Pixabay
Many hair experts have said that side parts will be getting a triumphant return. Celebrity hairstylist Lacy Redway, is excited for the comeback of side parts and swept away bangs as they are making a comeback. It will also have an added flip over than an actual part for curly and textured styles. For added playfulness, you can always pair a side part with a bombshell blowout.
Fairy Waves
Photo from Pixabay
Long hair is already striking alone but for 2025, we can add fairy waves for more romance and whimsy. For hair inspo, let’s look at Havana Rose Liu for her ethereal waves that cascades down to her waist.
Jane Birkin Bangs
Photo from Pixabay
Bangs have been a trend for a couple of years and we can attest with experimenting our looks with the beloved curtain bangs. However, Jane Birkin bangs will be huge for this year. A modernized version of a fringe as seen on Daisy Edgar-Jones who layered her bangs and parted down the center. Pro-tip: Use a texture spray to create separation, keep it gritty, and have a little texture.
90’s It Girl Blowout
A hair trend that says “Girl, I woke up like this”
Photo from Pixabay
The nineties hair trend has returned and we are not complaining. Celebrity hairstylists can reference our favorite supermodels Cindy Crawford and Kate Moss is a style that many will return to. An effortless and stylish way of styling your hair this year. Nothing can go wrong when opting for this new look. Don’t forget to add a volume spray if you want to add volume.
So, Sugboanons, magpatupi nata, because a new year is always a chance to try something new!
The Philippines is home to many diverse dishes in each region, it is always the highlight of every festival in every city or province as its culinary traditions flourish but there is one festival that stands out for its grandeur and significance—The Sinulog festival in Cebu. This festival is celebrated annually every year and it not only mesmerizes the colorful street dances but also the delicacies that we learn to love and enjoy.
Food is a universal currency that everyone can enjoy and spark a connection with a certain place or person. So, join me in this article as we venture into the world of Cebuano delicacies in the time of the Sinulog. Without further ado, here are the delicacies that are a must-have for everyone to try:
Carbon Market Cebu
How about a journey to the market?
Photo by Canva
Carbon Market is a place for locals to buy a wide selection of fresh produce at a cheap and affordable range. At night, it is packed with people as it has given vendors an opportunity to sell their products including many Cebuano delicacies, Sutukil food, and a variety of food stalls. Have you tried tuslob buwa?
Tuslob Buwa is a merienda staple and it literally means to dip in bubbles. The ingredients consist of pork brains, liver, and pork broth. It may not sound appetizing but don’t judge until you give it a try. It’s rich and savory flavor with a hint of smokiness and tastes like a liquefied sisig and it is eaten by sopping the stew in puso or hanging rice wrapped in coconut leaves.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
OPENING HOURS
Saturday & Sunday – 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
However, tenants may close early or stay long due to the traffic.
The classic stalls like Zagu, Santino’s and Fruitas are present in the Carbon Market. Meanwhile, new stalls have been added. Here are a few examples:
The Coffee Mobile
Seaside Scramble
Happy Sundae
Nine Tea Mobile
Sutukil Stalls (Sugba, Tuwa, Kilaw)
HOW TO GET THERE?
By Car: Waze and Google can be utilized, just enter Carbon Night Market Parking
A walking distance from Magellan’s park and Freedom Park
From Mactan-Cebu International Airport – You may hop into a taxi; fare is P180
AA Barbeque
A smoky and savory Filipino barbeque is on the list!
Photo by Canva
Have you heard of AA Barbeque? Experience Filipino goodness with a restaurant that serves a variety of short, grilled orders, and pa luto dishes in a casual and family-friendly restaurant. Filipino style barbeque is the creme dela creme where it serves a smoky, savory, and grilled barbeque that many locals and foreigners enjoy.
Filipino style barbeque is pork barbeque in a bamboo skewers that is marinated in a special mixture of spices and seasonings. In the Philippines, we normally grill over wood charcoal and dipped in a tail jar of spicy vinegar before eating.
By Car: Waze and Google Maps can be utilized and set your destination to AA Barbeque Consolacion
Pungko-Pungko sa Fuente
Photo by Ram Mancelita
I am excited to share with you a very popular way of eating in the Queen City of the South. It’s called Pungko-pungko, which means crouch and squat while you eat. Our favorite fried foods are served like fried sausage, lumpia, chicken, longganisa, pork chops and others. There are many pungko-pungko stalls in Cebu and the best ones are in Fuente. Aside from eating at an affordable range, it is also one of the best ways to socialize and eat with your friends while spending and talking about their meals.
The food is best served with vinegar, puso, and soft drinks. Their special vinegar is mixed with a lot of onions and chili. Micro businesses in Cebu are quite lucrative and it is open to a wide variety of people. It’s famous everywhere for workers, students, family, and even for events. Other than being cheap, it’s so good.
Rates & More Information
Price List:
Ginabot (chicharon bulaklak): P15
Fried Pork: P35
Crab Meat: P25
Puso (hanging rice): P4 per piece
Located right across Apple Tree Suites or behind Fuente Circle (near Hi-Precision Fuente), Pungko-pungko sa Fuente is open everyday from 6 AM to 10 PM.
How to get there?
Exact location: 52 A J Llorente Street, Cebu City. Just right across Apple Tree Suites or behind Fuente Circle, near Hi-Precision Fuente.
By Jeepney: Ride any jeepney going to Mango Ave. Drop off at National Book Store – Mango or Caltex Gas station. From there, walk a little further for 5-10 minutes from Century Plaza and then turn left on the first alley (before Century Plaza) and just follow the road until you have reached the place.
By Car: Waze and Google Maps can be utilized. Pin your location to Pungko-pungko sa Fuente. Parking is available.
Siomai sa Tisa
Photo by Canva
Do you like dumplings? Tisa is a city district in Cebu that specializes in making siomai. Siomai in the Philippines is a steamed chinese pork dumplings and one of the few Chinese names that retained their spelling since arriving here. It started out from a fad ten years ago where many people went to Tisa to eat their siomai at roadside eateries.
Though no one can recall who started the siomai fad, siomai sa tisa has evolved into the Cebu standard for street-style pork dumplings. They’re accompanied by limonsito or vinegar, soy sauce, and chile-garlic oil that makes you want even more.
Rates & Other Information
Where:
A humble chain called D’Original Siomai sa Tisa claims to sell the original siomai sa Tisa in a more accessible location. It can be found in the intersection ride of Salinas Drive and Archbishop Reyes Avenue.
When:
This is virtually a 24 hours joint since it’s part of the main rows of eateries servicing IT Park, where there’s a high concentration of call-center offices.
How To Get There?
Exact location: Brgy. Tisa, Cebu City
By Car: Set your destination to Brgy. Tisa, Cebu and pin your location on Waze or Google Maps. Parking is available.
Lechon de Talisay
Going to the Queen City of the South wouldn’t be complete without lechon!
Photo by Canva
Lechon or roasted pig is mostly served during gatherings or events. However, you can get a budget meal of P100 and it is already served with puso, lechon, or dinaguan (pork blood stew). Talisay and Carcar are one of the best places to go in Cebu. Did you know that Cebu is hailed as the Lechon Capital in the Philippines? Our lechon doesn’t need sauce because it is slowly roasted to perfection and marinated with a special blend of spices and seasonings making the roasted pig tender and crispy.
In 2024, the Philippines hosted a new generation cyber sports festival, 1xFest, which transformed traditional perceptions of fan events in esports. The festival featured pubstomps in the Philippines, Myanmar, and Vietnam, strategically aligned with the finals of The International 2024 from September 4th to 15th. In the Philippines, the pubstomp extended over three days, drawing significant attention and participation from fans across the region.
A New Era for Esports Fans
1xFest is more than just an event; it’s a groundbreaking initiative by 1xBet designed to deeply immerse fans into the world of esports. The festival featured a series of Watch Party events timed with the finals of The International 2024. These events allowed fans, thousands of kilometers away from the main tournament in Copenhagen, to fully experience the thrilling moments of the competition.
Interactivity and Active Participation
The festival was highly interactive. Attendees could not only watch the games but also engage in various contests, from cosplay to TikTok dance challenges. The participation of well-known influencers like Eva Elfie, and the raffles of exclusive gaming items via Telegram channels, heightened engagement and interest in the event.
Success Statistics
Over three days, 1xFest attracted significant viewership: 2,112,000 views on Facebook and 3,810,000 views on YouTube. These figures are not just numbers – they reflect the deep interest and engagement of the fans.
Conclusion
1xFest demonstrated that esports events can be more than just spectacles; they can also be venues for community and culture development among fans in the Philippines. The festival strengthened the esports community by creating a new tradition of collective viewing of major tournaments and showed how sports events can unite people, regardless of geographical location.
Keep up with 1xBet news to always be informed about important events.
About 1xBet
With 17 years in the betting and gambling sector, 1xBet is a well-known global entity. Accessible in 70 languages, the platform attracts over three million users each month, offering an extensive range of sports betting and online casino options. 1xBet has established partnerships with prominent sports entities and figures, including FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, basketball sensation Kai Sotto, FIBA, Chris Newsome, and UFC legend José Aldo, underscoring its prestigious status in the international sports betting market.
Celebrate Love with an Evening of Enchanting Serenades
The ultimate Valentine’s experience awaits you as global music sensation Ronan Keating brings his timeless hits to Cebu for an unforgettable Valentine’s Special. Known for chart-topping classics like “When You Say Nothing at All” and “If Tomorrow Never Comes,” Ronan’s heartfelt music has touched fans worldwide, making this a night to remember for lovers and music enthusiasts alike. Celebrate the power of love swaying along to romantic anthems this February 12, 2025 at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
An Embrace of Romance and Nostalgia
Taking place at the heart of Cebu, this one-night-only concert promises to be the perfect prelude to Valentine’s Day. Even when you say nothing at all, Ronan’s soulful voice and captivating stage presence will surely envelop your evening with love, nostalgia, and musical brilliance.
A Cebu-first: Where the heart sings
Always enamored by the support of his Filipino fans, Ronan now brings his romantic ballads to Cebu for the very first time. This rare and special moment undoubtedly reclaims Cebu as the destination “where the heart sings,” its past slogan showcasing Cebuanos’ warm and passionate souls. Visayas and non-Visayas fans can finally witness his legendary serenades differently, in a stunning growing hotspot for international music events.
Last Thing On My Mind is you missing this event
You should not miss out on this intimate moment! Ronan Keating’s Valentine’s Special in Cebu is more than just a concert; it’s a worthwhile journey. Whether you’re looking to surprise a loved one, celebrate with friends, or simply enjoy world-class music, this experience promises to leave lasting memories. Let your hearts be carried away into a nostalgic journey of his extensive discography.
Just like love, seize the ticket once it comes
Tickets will be available via https://ronankeating2025ph.lsquared.live/. Secure your spot to ensure you don’t let this one-of-a-kind Valentine’s celebration slip away.
Check out the ticket details below:
SVIP (with Meet and Greet) – Php 8,500
VIP (with Meet and Greet) – Php 7,500
Patron – Php 5,500
Gold – Php 4,500
Silver – Php 3,500
Balcony – Php 2,500
For Media Inquiries and Partnerships, please contact:
Stay tuned for updates by following L-Squared Productions on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Join the conversation online using the hashtag #RonanKeatingCebu.
About Ronan Keating
Ronan Keating, a celebrated artist and former member of the iconic group Boyzone, has enjoyed an illustrious solo career spanning over two decades. With multi-platinum albums and numerous awards to his name, Ronan continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his heartfelt ballads and magnetic performances that truly defined generations.
About L-Squared Productions, Inc.
L-Squared Productions, Inc. is dedicated to bringing world-class entertainment to the Philippines, curating exceptional live events that create unforgettable moments. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, L-Squared Productions, Inc. is a trusted name in the local events industry.
Make this Valentine’s season one to cherish with the Ronan Keating Valentine’s Special in Cebu. Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic—grab your tickets now!
Into the woods, but not too fast or what you wish, you lose at last.
Photo from Theatre Group Asia
The enchanting world of “Into the Woods” is about to come alive on stage in the Philippines, and with a new set of castmembers to look forward to.
Leading the cast is THE Leah Salonga, who will step into the role of the Witch. Joining her is the talented Filipino-American actress Arielle Jacobs, who will portray Cinderella.
Photo from Theatre Group Asia
As the production team gears up for its much-anticipated show, excitement is building among fans of musical theater. The combination of Salonga and Jacobs promises to bring a new energy to the beloved tale at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater this coming August.
Photo from Theatre Group Asia
Lea Returns On Stage After A 6-Year Theater Hiatus
Photo from Playbill
Lea Salonga, one of the most renowned theater actresses in the Philippines, and internationally, shared her excitement over her new role. According to her, it has been awhile since she starred on stage, “The last show I did in Manila was a Stephen Sondheim masterpiece. Now, I’m coming in ‘Into the Woods,’ yet another Sondheim masterpiece! If all I do for the rest of my life is to perform in Sondheim shows, I’ll be very happy.”
Many of us are very familiar with the event of a coronation of religious images. This is called the canonical coronation and these events are done to acknowledge the Marian and Christological images which have significant roles in fostering the faith of many people.
Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto Nino
As Sinulog weekend has just started, I would like to introduce to you the four canonically-crowned images of the Señor Santo Niño and their backstories. May these stories help you in your journey of faith and foster all that love and devotion to the Child Jesus.
Santo Bambino de Aracoeli
Photo from the Library of Congress Official Website
Provenance: Minor Basilica of Santa Maria Aracoeli, Rome, Italy.
Coronation date: May 2,1987
Pontificate: Pope Leo XIII
This statue of the Infant Jesus dates back from the fifteenth century is a wood carving that was made in Jerusalem by a Franciscan friar through the use of the Gethsemane olive tree. The miraculous image was forcibly thrown in the sea during a storm upon the friar’s return to Rome but miraculously arrived in the port of Livorno.
Photo from the Vatican News
In the Philippines, devotion to the Santo Bambino de Aracoeli began when a replica was enshrined at the Parish of Our Lady of the Assumption in Maragondon, Cavite in 1986. His feast is celebrated every May 2.
Bambino Gesu de Arenzano
Photo from Santuario Gesù Bambino di Praga Official Website
Provenance: Minor Basilica of the Child Jesus of Arenzano, Genoa, Italy
Coronation date: February 24, 1924
Pontificate: Pope Pius XI
The image was donated by Marquise Delphina Gavotti of Savona, and was presented in the shrine in 1902, replacing the picture of the Infant Jesus of Prague brought by the Carmelite order on September 25, 1900. The feast of the image is celebrated every September 01 and various miracles have been reported by pilgrims.
Although there are no chapels, oratories, and parishes dedicated to the Bambino Gesu de Arenzano in the Philippines. Some Filipinos are members of the Pious Association of the Bambino Gesu de Arenzano.
Holy Infant of Prague
Photo from https://infantprague.org/
Provenance: Church of the Virgin Mary the Victorious – Shrine of the Child Jesus, Prague, Czech Republic
Coronation: September 6, 1924
Pontificate: Pope Pius XI
The statue of the Holy Infant of Prague was modeled by a pious friar inspired by a vision. It was once owned by the Pernstein family and given to the Carmelite Monastery in Prague by Polyxena of Lobkowicz in 1629. The infant Jesus is said to have appeared to Father Cyril, asking for his hands to be restored, promising blessings in the world.
In the Philippines, the devotion is popular, with notable shrines at the Abbey of Our Lady in Montserrat in Manila and the Chapel-shrine of the Holy Infant in Matina, Davao City.
Santo Niño de Cebu
Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto Nino
Provenance: Minor Basilica of Santo Niño de Cebu, Cebu
Coronation date: April 28, 1965
Pontificate: Pope St. Paul IV
The first religious figure in the Philippines brought by Ferdinand Magellan, was given to Humaymay (baptized as Queen Juana). Upon receiving the image, Reina Juana reportedly wept. After Magellan’s death in 1521, the image was initially attempted to be destroyed by natives but eventually venerated as a deity.
The Santo Niño de Cebu’s devotion was instrumental in spreading Christianity across the Philippines with replicas venerated in Batangas, Malitbog, Leyte, Biñan, Laguna, and Intramuros, Manila.
Cebu is a true metropolis of a city. A great place for adventure enthusiasts and seekers to enjoy because they can experience what they want in a few hours drive away. Did you know that you can have a fun family weekend in Oslob while surrounded with some wild monkeys? Look no further than the Oslob Macaque Encounter where you can up and close personal with wild long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat.
An Overview of the Monkey Sanctuary
Photos by Freepik
Oslob is a coastal town in Cebu province and also known for its beaches and marine life. There are so many things that you can do in this little town and one of those encounters is the unique experience that the Oslob Macaque Encounter offers their visitors. Here, visitors can observe and interact with wild long-tail macaques, locally known as “Monday,” in their natural habitat.
The sanctuary is managed by the Hagdan Oslob Monkey Protectors and Farmers Association (HOMPFA), is a haven for wild monkeys who are known for their friendly nature. Guided tours in the monkey sanctuary are offered for visitors to observe the wild monkeys up close without any barriers. The monkeys are visible on the national road and that makes everything convenient for tourists. This initiative also aids local farmers by allowing tourists to feed the monkeys and avoiding crop damage.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Operating Hours: Open Daily from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Exact Location: Sitio Bulak, Brgy. Hagdan, Oslob, Cebu City
By Car: if you’re driving, you can take the Southern Cebu Coastal Road and follow the signs to Oslob. It will take you 2-3 hours to drive from Cebu City.
By Public Transportation: for those relying on public transportation, you can take a bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal bound for Oslob. Once in Oslob, you can hire a tricycle or a motorbike taxi to reach Oslob Macaque.
