OntheLook

21/08/2025

In Celebration of Our 3rd Anniversary!
The Cebu Online News Press Corps supports the Cebu World Walks Against Dementia as part of our advocacy efforts — and we’re honored to be the official media partner for this meaningful cause.

🗓 Date: September 7, Sunday
📍 Venue: SM Seaside City Cebu, Cube Wing Atrium
🕐 Time: 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Let’s take steps together to raise awareness and support the fight against dementia. Walk with us and make a difference!

20/08/2025

Lights, Camera, Action: Cebu Chamber Rolls Out Creative Forum

The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is excited to announce the Creative Entertainment Business Forum on August 29–30, 2025, at Montebello Villa Hotel. Held as part of Cebu Business Month (CBM) 2025, this event highlights the creative entertainment industry’s powerful role in driving economic growth and cultural innovation in Cebu and the Visayas

This 2-day forum aims to connect local creative talents, entrepreneurs, and business leaders with international industry experts and investors—showcasing how the creative sector can complement traditional industries and open new frontiers for Cebu’s growth.

This must-attend conference offers an excellent opportunity to explore innovative trends, engage with key investors, and highlight Cebu’s growing role as a dynamic creative hub in the heart of Southeast Asia’s entertainment industry.

The event will explore how sectors like animation, gaming, film, digital content, and entertainment technology can spark job creation, attract investments, and position Cebu as the Creative Entertainment Hub of the Visayas.

Key topics include:
How the Creative Industry Can Boost Traditional Business
Cebu, the Creative Entertainment Hub of the Visayas
Entertainment Industry Conferences in the Philippines
Financing the Development of the Cebu Creative Ecosystem
How to Make Money in Entertainment Investment
The Southeast Asian Entertainment Industry
The Business of Japanese Anime and Games
International Support to Make Cebu a Creative Hub

Distinguished speakers from Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia will share insights on global trends and regional opportunities.

Day 1 Highlights
CCCI President Jay Yuvallos will kick off the forum with an inspiring keynote on how the creative industry can drive innovation and add value to traditional businesses. Former CCCI trustee Mario Panganiban will follow with a compelling presentation on Cebu’s strategic rise as the Creative Entertainment Hub of the Visayas.

Industry thought leaders from the Animation Council of the Philippines (ACPI), Game Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP), and SIKAP will share vital updates on national creative industry developments and upcoming events that are shaping the sector’s future.

Adding a dynamic close to the day’s conversations, Anderson Tan, founder of Anderson Management Capital, will deliver a powerful keynote on unlocking funding opportunities and building a sustainable financial ecosystem for Cebu’s creative sector.

The afternoon sessions promise high-impact insights, with Chan Gin Kai, CEO of Silver Media Group, and James Lo of Taktyl Studios revealing how investors and creators can capitalize on entertainment ventures. Rounding out the day, David Anthony Chan of HIP Studios will showcase original Filipino narratives with global appeal—highlighting the rich storytelling potential of Philippine creatives.
Day 2 of the Forum will spotlight the dynamic Southeast Asian entertainment landscape, featuring expert voices from the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. A highlight of the day, Takumi Furusato of LUDiMUS (Japan) will dive into The Business of Japanese Anime and Games, while Ikuko Kogiso of Creative Minds LLC will explore collaborative opportunities between Southeast Asia and Japan.

A cutting-edge Entertainment Technology Showcase will introduce breakthrough innovations in virtual production, AR/VR, and AI, demonstrating how technology is reshaping content creation and immersive storytelling.

Leaders from ACPI, GDAP, and SIKAP will update attendees on key industry trends and upcoming events shaping the creative sector’s future

Adding a global business perspective, Jens Knauber, COO of Gamigo, will discuss what it takes to set up an international game studio in Cebu, and why the city is ready for it. The ASEAN Secretariat will also give an overview of how the Southeast Asian creative economy is evolving and where Cebu fits in.

To cap off the forum, a high-level panel discussion with representatives from UNIDO ITPO Tokyo and the Philippine Trade Investment Center will explore international support mechanisms to help realize Cebu’s vision as a global creative hub.

As a strategic step toward putting Cebu on the global creative map, this forum reflects CCCI’s strong commitment to nurturing a creative ecosystem that is globally competitive, innovation-driven, and proudly rooted in local culture.

We invite creatives, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry advocates to join this unique gathering and help shape Cebu’s future as a leading hub for creativity and innovation.

For inquiries or to register, please contact the Cebu Chamber at (032) 232-1421 or email us at [email protected].

20/08/2025

Abellana National School Gears Up for Grand Reunion 2025: A Cowboy-Cowgirl Celebration of Friendship and Memories

The Abellana National School Alumni Federation Incorporated (ANSAFI) is calling on all proud alumni to saddle up for an unforgettable homecoming as it hosts its Grand Reunion 2025 on October 26, 2025, at the USJ-R Coliseum, Basak Campus.

This year’s theme promises a rootin’-tootin’ good time with a Cowboy and Cowgirl Attire dress code, setting the stage for a day of nostalgia, laughter, and renewed friendships.

From 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the coliseum will come alive with fun-filled games, exciting raffles, and surprise activities that guarantee to make this gathering a truly memorable one.

“Every reunion is a chance to relive the spirit of ANS - the camaraderie, the lessons, and the joy that shaped who we are today. We invite all alumni, from every batch, to be part of this celebration of heritage and unity,” said ANSAFI President Roy Melgo.

Alumni are encouraged to coordinate with their respective batch presidents for participation. A registration fee of just P150 ensures entry to a day packed with entertainment, bonding, and a chance to reconnect with long-lost classmates and mentors.

With a rich history of molding leaders, dreamers, and achievers, ANS remains a beacon of pride. This grand reunion will not only celebrate cherished memories but also strengthen the bonds that keep the Abellana spirit alive across generations.

Mark your calendars, shine those boots, and get ready to ride into a day of joy and connection, ANS style!

For inquiries and coordination, alumni are encouraged to reach out to their batch presidents or contact the ANSAFI secretariat.

20/08/2025

Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa Hosted “Clean Water, Clear Purpose” Coastal and Underwater Clean-Up Drive

Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa spearheaded a successful coastal and underwater clean-up last August 16 under the banner of “Clean Water, Clear Purpose,” a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at promoting marine conservation and environmental sustainability.

Bringing together around 50 volunteer divers from various backgrounds—including professional divers, business executives, and resort employees—the event marked a significant community collaboration in support of clean seas and marine biodiversity. Participants gathered as early as 6:30 AM to begin the clean-up operations along the coast and underwater areas near Tambuli.

The initiative is the third collaboration of the Dive and Clean Up Club with major Mactan resorts over the past three months. Previous successful clean-up drives were conducted at Mactan Newtown Beach, in partnership with Savoy Hotel and Belmont Hotel, and at Dusit Thani Mactan.

The clean up dive project was made possible through the partnership of E&Z Diving Center, which played a major role in organizing and executing the clean-up.

Participants were treated to a delicious breakfast and lunch buffet provided by Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa as a gesture of gratitude for their commitment to environmental stewardship.

As part of its expanding network and advocacy efforts, the Dive and Clean Up Club also signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Cebu Online News Press Corps (CONPC), officially designating the media organization as its official media partner. Representing CONPC was its founder, Mr. Robby Alugar, in support of the group’s Community Social Responsibility.

The event was made possible through the collaboration and support of several organizations and sponsors, including:
E&Z Diving Center, Scuba Schools International (SSI), Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving (PCSSD), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), Hat Quarter – which provided caps for all divers, Novellino Wines – which raffled off bottles as prizes, United Neon Advertising – for their promotional support.

Additionally, SSI and E&Z Diving Center offered 20 free Marine Ecology Online Courses, and 17 complimentary dive passes were also distributed to lucky participants—highlighting the event’s educational and experiential benefits.

This collaborative effort stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when the private sector, government agencies, and civic organizations unite for a shared environmental cause.

19/08/2025

18/08/2025

Love, Loss, and What I Wore — more than just outfits, it’s about the stories stitched into every seam. From first dates to final goodbyes, this hilarious and heartfelt play unpacks the memories our clothes hold closest. 💔👗
Fresh from the press conference runway, the iconic work of Nora & Delia Ephron comes to Cebu last August 16–17, 2025 | 8PM at the Visayas Ballroom of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, directed by Charlene Virlouvet.

17/08/2025

HRRACI honors tourism and hospitality champions at CTHA Awards

NUSTAR Resort & Casino Cebu emerged as a big winner at the 2025 Cebu Tourism and Hospitality Awards (CTHA), taking home the Hotel and Resort Manager of the Year and Best Marketing Campaign of the Year award, while Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan was named Sustainability Champion of the Year. The August 13 ceremony at Ayala Center Cebu’s Activity Center was a lively affair, with supporters waving balloons and placards to cheer on their hotel’s finalists.

The annual event, organized by the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu, Inc. (HRRACI), celebrated industry professionals whose dedication, skill, and resilience have kept Cebu’s hospitality sector vibrant, even in the face of recent challenges.

Department of Tourism Central Visayas Regional Director Judy Gabato said the awards honor not just skills, but also the warmth and dedication that make guests feel at home in Cebu.

“The true measure of our success is not just in the number of arrivals or the beauty of our destinations, but in the people who welcome our guests and turn ordinary encounters into extraordinary memories,” RD Gabato said. “We look for resilience—the strength to rise above challenges and inspire others to do the same.”

She also highlighted the value of innovation, describing it as the courage to think differently and lead the industry toward a more sustainable and globally competitive future.

RD Gabato recognized every nominee for embodying these qualities, whether welcoming guests with warmth at the front of the house or working behind the scenes to keep operations running smoothly—each role contributing to the vibrant rhythm of hospitality.

HRRACI president Mia Singson-Leon said the awards were born out of the industry’s determination to honor those who went above and beyond during the pandemic and Typhoon Odette.

“Hoteliers showed up every day despite personal losses, delivering service the best way they could. This is our shout-out to the people behind the smiles, the care, and the excellence,” she said.

In her speech, Ms. Singson-Leon honored the resilience and excellence that define the people behind the industry.

“You are the backbone of the school's hospitality industry, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that every guest has an unforgettable experience. Your dedication, your passion, and your commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed,” she emphasized.

CTHA 2025 chairman Ron Manalang said the awards embody the industry’s mission to elevate Cebu’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.

“Together, we reaffirm our commitment to excellence, collaboration, and, of course, togetherness,” Manalang stressed, setting the tone for the gathering.

He reminded nominees that they are “already winners” with their dedication and growth. Manalang urged them to continue striving for excellence, to represent their brand with pride and passion, and to recognize that their achievements are rooted in the steadfast support of their hotel and the love of their families. Collectively, they are shaping a remarkable path toward success.

This year’s winners include:

Front of the House Employee of the Year: Jason D. Tampus, Belmont Hotel Mactan

Heart of the House Employee of the Year: Cresta R. Oba, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown

Supervisor of the Year: Lychiell Jane Alde, Bai Hotel Cebu

Hospitality and Tourism Educator of the Year: Welou Dil B. Diaz, University of Cebu-Main Campus

Hotel and Resort Manager of the Year: Key Ann B. Garcia, Nustar Resort & Casino Cebu

Sustainability Champion of the Year: Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan

Best Marketing Campaign of the Year: Nustar Resort & Casino Cebu

Since its inception, the CTHA has grown from 31 nominees in its first year to 55 this year, underscoring Cebu’s continued strength as a hub for world-class hospitality.

The 4th Cebu Tourism and Hospitality Awards (CTHA) is in Partnership with Ayala Center Cebu, Powered by Ng Khai and Endorsed by DOT Region VII. The event is also supported by the following sponsors: Converge, Seda Hotels Cebu of AyalaLand Hospitality, Globalinens Worldwide Inc., NUSTAR Resort & Casino Cebu, Cebu Pacific, Club Serena Resort, Marina Seaview, Radisson Blu Cebu, bai Hotel Cebu, TravelCare, Delsan Office Systems Corporation, Mora, Sanchez, Meñoza and Associates as Official auditor and tabulator, Scoring Software provided by ALB IT Solutions, Logistics by AZUL Handyman, Coordination by AZUL MARKETING & EVENTS PHILIPPINES, RMA News and the Cebu Online News Press Corps as Media Partners.

16/08/2025

World Travel Expo 2025 at Ayala Activity Center Ayala Center Cebu from August 15 to 17, 2025.
Golden Prince Hotel and Suites will have a 60 percent OFF on Bundle Savings and Room Deals, plus 30 percent OFF on Weekend Dinner Buffets, all in one epic event. Visit now!

16/08/2025

A warm welcome, exciting reveals, and the perfect blend of good food, fresh dining highlights, and a sneak peek at what’s next for CAFE bai and the Lobby Lounge filled tonight’s celebration at bai Hotel. Vibrant energy, fantastic company, and new offerings that were absolutely worth the buzz. 🥂

14/08/2025

Outstanding Tourism and Hospitality Awardees to be Honored today

The Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu, Inc. (HRRACI) will announce and honor the winners of the 4th Cebu Tourism & Hospitality Awards (CTHA) on August 13, 2025, at 4 p.m. at the Ayala Center Cebu Activity Center.

The annual event celebrates individuals and institutions whose contributions have elevated Cebu’s tourism and hospitality industry. Finalists have been named across several categories, including Hospitality and Tourism Educator of the Year, Front of the House Employee of the Year, Heart of the House Employee of the Year, Supervisor of the Year, Hotel and Resort Manager of the Year, Best Marketing Campaign of the Year, and Sustainability Champion of the Year.

Before the awards ceremony, guests will have a chance to score big savings through the One-Day Hotel Deals, running from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Ayala Center Cebu Activity Center. The event features exclusive offers from some of Cebu’s premier hotels, resorts, and travel service providers, giving visitors the perfect opportunity to book stays or dining experiences at special rates available for one day only.

Participating establishments include Nustar Resort Cebu, offering rooms starting at ₱8,000 net/night and dining vouchers from ₱1,200 net; Seda with rooms at ₱3,700 net/night plus a ₱1,000 dining voucher on a “4 plus 1” deal; and Quest Hotel with rooms at ₱2,800 net/night and buffet rates starting at ₱750 net.

bai Hotel Cebu is offering rooms at ₱2,888 net/night and buffets starting at ₱1,088 net, while Radisson Blu Cebu has rooms from ₱5,500 net/night, buffet for two starting at ₱3,000, and spa treatments at ₱1,800.

Guests can also book at Club Serena Resort from ₱6,825 net/night or enjoy ₱1,000 dining vouchers on a “5 plus 1” promo at Marina Seaview.

TravelCare will extend discounted tour packages and their customers can avail USD100 Cashback Promo while Globalinens Worldwide Inc. will showcase their hotel essentials.

With offers like these, the One-Day Hotel Deals is more than just a side event—it’s a rare opportunity for both locals and visitors to enjoy Cebu’s top hospitality experiences at exceptional prices.

During the ceremony, HRRAC President Mia Singson Leon will deliver the opening remarks. Department of Tourism Regional Director Judy Gabato will share an inspirational message, while CTHA chair Ron Manalang will explain the awards’ purpose and vision.

The highlight of the evening will be the announcement of this year’s winners.

This year’s finalists include:

Hospitality and Tourism Educator of the Year: Marifel Aiva Y. Ferraren – University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue and Welou Dil B. Diaz – University of Cebu – Main Campus.

Front of the House Employee of the Year: Zestin Ann Fermilan (The Reef Island Resort Mactan Cebu), Ruby Luz Suliva (Radisson Blu Cebu), Michelle Balabat (bai Hotel Cebu), Stephanie Andrade (Seda Ayala Center Cebu), Jason Tampus (Belmont Hotel Mactan), Renie Pagliawan (Seda Central Bloc Cebu), Jelou Rojas (Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan), Rudy Palconit (Nustar Resort & Casino), and Angelo Sanchez (Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown).

Heart of the House Employee of the Year: Cresta Oba (Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown), Analyn Montifalcon (Tambuli Seaside Resort & Spa), Jay Korina Gabucan (Nustar Resort & Casino), Maria Arlene Cabello (bai Hotel Cebu), Shannia Reoma (Seda Central Bloc Cebu), Carl Vallenos (The Reef Island Resort Mactan Cebu), Armin Ros Franz Alutaya (Belmont Hotel Mactan), Arlito Sanopao Jr. (Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan), and Darson Saballa (Radisson Blu Cebu).

Supervisor of the Year: Michelle Yorong (Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown),Lychiell Jane Alde (bai Hotel Cebu), Lilibeth Suerte (Nustar Resort & Casino), Noella Ched Mayores (Seda Central Bloc Cebu), Pepito Bernal Jr. (Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort), William Gupit Jr. (Belmont Hotel Mactan), Jefferson Pilamen (Montebello Hotel), Aaron Mañago (Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan), and Norman Rabor (Radisson Blu Cebu).

Hotel and Resort Manager of the Year: Hanna Jane Cervantes (Seda Ayala Center Cebu), Florimie Dungog (Bluwater Maribago Beach Resort), Ruchy Baya (Belmont Hotel Mactan), Aljun Berdin (Nustar Resort & Casino), Carlo Rivera (bai Hotel Cebu), Kyle Aizon Jay Dini-ay (Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan), Jimmy Colina (Tambuli Seaside Resort & Spa), Michael Shane Kong (Montebello Hotel), Michael Angelo Peralta (Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort), Kay Ann Garcia (Nustar Resort & Casino), Ma. Shehla Khan (Seda Central Bloc Cebu), Dave Jones Teves (Citadines Cebu City), Jude Anthony Pangan (Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown), Mario Mata (Radisson Blu Cebu), and Joel Espina (Quest Hotel and Conference Center Cebu).

Best Marketing Campaign of the Year: Nustar Resort Cebu, Be Resort Mactan, and Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan.

Sustainability Champion of the Year: Bluewater Resorts, Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, Nustar Resort Cebu, Radisson Blu Cebu, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, The Reef Island Resort Mactan Cebu, and University of Cebu Banilad Campus.

The CTHA, now in its fourth year, continues to honor the people who make Cebu’s hospitality industry shine. Through their stories, HRRAC hopes to spark pride and professionalism throughout the community.

The 4th Cebu Tourism and Hospitality Awards (CTHA) is in Partnership with Ayala Center Cebu, Powered by Ng Khai and Endorsed by DOT Region VII. The event is also supported by the following sponsors: Converge, Seda Hotels Cebu of AyalaLand Hospitality, Globalinens Worldwide Inc., NUSTAR Resort & Casino Cebu, Cebu Pacific, Club Serena Resort, Marina Seaview, Radisson Blu Cebu, bai Hotel Cebu, TravelCare, Delsan Office Systems Corporation, Mora, Sanchez, Meñoza and Associates as Official auditor and tabulator, Scoring Software provided by ALB IT Solutions, RMA News and the Cebu Online News Press Corps as Media Partners.

10/08/2025

Bayfront Hotel Cebu Unveils Exclusive Travel Deals at World Travel Expo 2025

Bayfront Hotel Cebu Joins World Travel Expo 2025 – Exclusive Deals Await!

Cebu has a way of drawing you in—the sunlit mornings by the shore, the bustling city life, the smell of good food that lingers in the air. And this August, Bayfront Hotel Cebu is bringing all that closer to you at the World Travel Expo 2025, happening on August 15–17, 2025, at Ayala Center Cebu (near Anta & Guess).

Think of it as the start of your next great getaway—a chance to book your dream city escape, plan that long-overdue family trip, or simply treat yourself to a stay that’s all about comfort and connection. At Booth A31, Bayfront Hotel Cebu is serving up exclusive travel deals designed to make your stay in the Queen City of the South effortless and unforgettable.

Exclusive World Travel Expo 2025 Deals:

Bayfront Hotel Cebu – North Reclamation

•Superior Room – Php 2,800/night with breakfast for two (from Php 5,100)
•Valid for stays until June 30, 2026

Bayfront Hotel Cebu – Capitol Site

•Classic Room – Php 2,500/night with breakfast for two (from Php 4,800)
•Valid for stays until June 30, 2026

Caja Kitchen Cebu – Weekend Lunch/Dinner Buffet

•Php 588 per person (from Php 649)
•Valid until November 30, 2025

This is more than just a booth—it’s a chance to visualize your next Cebu staycation, chat with the Bayfront team, and grab deals that give you more for less. Whether it’s waking up to a hearty breakfast before exploring the city, enjoying a cozy room in a prime location, or indulging in Caja Kitchen Cebu’s weekend buffet with friends and family, Bayfront Hotel Cebu has lined up offers that bring comfort, convenience, and value together.

Mark your calendars, gather your travel buddies, and make your way to World Travel Expo 2025 at Ayala Center Cebu. Drop by Booth A31 and let Bayfront Hotel Cebu help you plan a trip worth remembering without the hefty price tag.

09/08/2025

Precious Brew Café Opens New Branch with New Menu Favorites

Precious Brew Café marked a new chapter in its journey with the grand opening of its latest branch on July 27, 2025. The festivities began with a thanksgiving mass and blessing, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Hon. Ramonita Manatad, Barangay Captain of Subangdaku.

Guests were then serenaded by a live pianist from the music school above the café, Saint Thomas School of Music, setting a relaxing and refined tone to the day. The event was a true celebration of gratitude, good food, and growing community ties.

“We kept the program simple, but full of heart,” said Ferro Genevieve Lao, owner of Precious Brew Café. “Some of the most memorable moments were the spontaneous games and sing-alongs, it felt like one big family gathering.”

Precious Brew Cafe's new menu items and generous promos delighted its guests. The expanded menu now includes Beef Quesadilla, Nachos, Chicken Tenders, Truffle Cream Pasta, Baked Salmon, Cordon Bleu, Roast Beef, and a Revamped Pork Sisig. The new menu items were crafted based on customer feedback and are perfect for party trays or intimate gatherings.

“We’ve listened to what our customers loved and built on that. Some of our new dishes were chosen to strengthen our group and party menu offerings,” Lao shared.

Guests enjoyed a 30% discount on all food and drinks, and were treated to free pastries and drinks via a coffee cart stationed outside the building. Grand opening invitation cardholders received free beverages, while exclusive merchandise like umbrellas, fans, and pens were given away throughout the day.

The turnout was overwhelming, with walk-in guests filling the café later in the day, drawn in by the promos and cozy atmosphere. “We’re so grateful for the positive feedback,” Lao added. “People told us the food was delicious, the vibe was cozy, and the private area made them consider hosting small celebrations here.”

Looking ahead, the café has its sights set on exciting things. New drink offerings are in the pipeline, and the team is preparing for BER-month specials including seasonal pastries, party trays, and rental packages with event styling and buffet services. Additionally, the new branch boasts a larger parking area and will soon be available on food delivery platforms, making access even more convenient.

Precious Brew Café is now open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, offering a warm space for every foodie and coffee lovers.

📍 Find them here:
⁦https://maps.app.goo.gl/fxqz4P1Ftzw5ppsz9?g_st=com.google.maps.previ⁩