Flooding has become one of the most pressing concerns in Cebu, especially during heavy rains and typhoon season. But one of the biggest reasons behind this is something many people don’t often notice—our watersheds.

Watersheds affect how water travels from Cebu’s mountains down to our rivers, lowland barangays, and eventually the sea. Understanding how they work can help us protect our communities, support safer development, and care for our environment.

 What Is a Watershed?

A watershed is a land area where all rainwater and runoff flow into a common outlet, such as a river, creek, or coastline.

Think of it as Cebu’s natural drainage system. When it rains in the mountains of Busay or Talisay, the water flows down slopes, joins streams, enters major rivers like Guadalupe or Butuanon, and finally drains to the sea.

✔ Every hill, mountain, tree, and subdivision inside a watershed affects how water behaves.
✔ When watersheds are healthy, flooding is less severe.
✔ When they are damaged or blocked, flooding worsens.

 Major Watersheds in Cebu That Affect Flooding

Cebu has several important watersheds, but the most flood-prone are:

1. Guadalupe River Watershed (Cebu City)

Drains water from Busay, Lahug, Banawa, Kalunasan → flows into downtown Cebu.

2. Butuanon River Watershed (Mandaue, Consolacion)

Drains upland areas → floods AS Fortuna, Tipolo, Subangdaku.

3. Kinalumsan River Watershed (Labangon, Basak, Mambaling)

Leads to the southern coastline where flooding is common.

4. Mananga River Watershed (Talisay)

Affects Bulacao, Lawaan, and riverside barangays.

 How Watershed Problems Cause Flooding in Cebu

1. Steep Slopes = Fast Runoff

Central Cebu’s mountains create flash floods, especially during sudden downpours.

2. Deforestation & Land Development

Cutting trees or clearing areas for:

• subdivisions

• resorts

• road widening

• quarry sites

reduces natural water absorption.

➡️ Water rushes to lowland areas, flooding fast.

3. Clogged or Narrow Rivers

Trash, silt, informal structures, and construction waste reduce river capacity.

➡️ Even moderate rains cause rivers to overflow.

4. Urbanization in the Lowlands

Cities like Mandaue, Cebu City, and Talisay are flat, crowded, and concrete-heavy.

➡️ Less soil to absorb rain → water accumulates quickly.

5. Climate Change

Heavier, sudden rainfall overwhelms Cebu’s drainage systems.

🌱 How Protecting Watersheds Helps Reduce Flooding

Healthy watersheds:

• absorb more rainwater

• slow down water flow

• reduce erosion and landslides

• prevent river overflow

• protect urban communities

Solutions include:

• reforesting upland barangays

• regulating construction

• clearing rivers and creeks

• maintaining drainage systems

• protecting remaining green spaces

 Final Thoughts

Flooding in Cebu isn’t just a drainage or “baha” issue—it’s a watershed issue.
By understanding how water moves from the mountains to the sea, we can make better choices as a community and create safer, flood-resilient cities.

Cebu’s cafe scene keeps evolving, and if you’re on the lookout for spots that feel fresh, cozy, and totally Instagram-worthy, here are eight cafes in Cebu — mostly in Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue — that you’ll want to put on your list.

1. The Public Café — A Relaxing Coffee Spot Along M.L. Quezon Highway

Where: 2483 M.L. Quezon National Highway, Lapu-Lapu, Cebu Foodpanda+1
Vibe & What to Expect:

• A laid-back café that’s a chill space to unwind, work, or hang out. Restaurant Guru

• Their menu mixes Western comfort food (like pasta and grilled sandwiches) with café favorites — think frappes, smoothies, and milk teas. Foodpanda+1

• According to reviews, the staff is professional, and the place offers a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a quiet coffee or a weekend brunch. Restaurant Guru

Menu Picks:

• Try their grilled cheese sandwich or ham & cheese sandwich. Foodpanda

• For drinks: their matcha milk tea and salted caramel frappe are fan favorites

2. GraTEAtude Café — Mandaue’s Cozy Corner for Peaceful Moments

Where: 13 V.B. Cabahug Extension, Ilog, Mandaue, Cebu Top Rated
Vibe & What Makes It Special:

• This café feels like a hidden sanctuary in Mandaue — peaceful, cozy, and made for relaxing. Top Rated

• Several guests describe it as a “secret location … a place to unwind, eat, drink, and enjoy music.” Top Rated

• The cafe seems to lean into a slower, more intentional cafe experience, making it ideal for study sessions or deep conversations.

Why Visit:

• It’s a great spot to step away from the hustle of city life while still being accessible.

• If you love tea (or just a calm coffee corner), this might be your new go-to.

3. The Giddy Goat Springwood — A Playful & Aesthetic Café in Mandaue

Where: Springwood District, Plaridel Street, Cambaro, Mandaue City islecebu.com+1
Vibe & Experience:

• This branch is more “cozy indoor seating” compared to their garden-style original. Facebook

• According to their Instagram, it’s a fun and “goat-themed” café, which suggests a playful, lighthearted branding. Instagram

• Their food and drink selection feels crafted for both coffee lovers and casual diners. Foodpanda

Highlights:

• Good place for dessert lovers or people looking for a café + ice cream hangout (some Giddy Goat branches do ice cream).

• Ideal for dates, small group hangs, or even just a chill solo afternoon.

4. Brewed Delights Café — The New Hangout for Coffee Purists in Mandaue North

Where: Mandaue North, Cebu
Vibe & What You Might Like:

• While I didn’t find many detailed online sources about Brewed Delights Café, it’s clearly part of the growing cafe wave in Mandaue.

• Based on the name, you can expect a strong focus on well-brewed coffee, relaxing ambiance, and perhaps light food fare.

Why It’s Worth Checking:

• As Mandaue North develops more lifestyle and hangout spots, Brewed Delights could become a favorite among locals.

• Good for those who prioritize coffee quality — possibly a specialty or artisan-brew type of place.

5. Board & Trays Café — Comfort Food + Coffee in One Homey Space

Where: P.J. Burgos Street, Brgy Alangalang, Mandaue City Tripadvisor+1
Vibe & What Makes It Special:

• A hybrid café and restaurant — it's not just about coffee but also hearty meals, pizzas, pasta, and comfort food. Facebook+2Facebook+2

• The ambiance is cozy and welcoming with a simple, homey style. Top Rated

• According to reviews, the food is “very good,” and the staff is friendly. Top Rated

Menu & Must-Tries:

• Their menu has rice meals, pasta, salads, and pizzas. Top Rated

• Drinks range from juices to coffee, and the pricing for their menu is relatively mid-tier for local cafés. Top Rated

Perfect For:

• Brunch or lunch with friends.

• A relaxed date or family hangout.

• Coffee + meal combo without going to a full restaurant.

6. Tons Café — A Hidden Gem Waiting to Be Discovered

Where: (Location unspecified, likely in Cebu / Mandaue)
Vibe & What It Might Be:

• I couldn’t find reliable online sources or recent reviews for Tons Café. It might be very new, niche, or still under the radar.

• Based on the name, it could lean toward a trendy café concept — possibly dessert-focused or a chill hangout.

Why It’s Interesting:

• Since there’s little information, this could be a “hidden gem” waiting to be discovered by local coffee lovers or content creators.

• Worth popping in (or scouting on Instagram / local directory) to see what their concept really is.

7. Psalms Café — A Faith-Inspired Space for Reflection & Good Coffee

Where: Door 11, Candelaria Arcade, A.C. Cortes, Mandaue City 
Vibe & What Stands Out:

• A warm, spiritual-inspired café — more than just a place for coffee, it feels like a “space to pause.” 

• Their Instagram shows that they’re creative with drink concoctions: matcha, ube drinks, salted caramel coffee, and banana pudding-inspired ones.

• offering “fresh brews, bold flavors” with a comforting, intentional energy. 

Why Go There:

• Perfect spot for reflection, studying, or a quiet conversation.

• Their pastries + coffee combo makes it ideal for brunch or afternoon tea.

• For those who appreciate a “third space” that’s both inspirational and relaxing.

8. Wave Café — Calm, Crafted Drinks, and Serene Mactan Vibes

Where: Lapu-Lapu / Mactan, Cebu (Instagram: @wavecafecebu) Instagram
Vibe & What’s Unique:

• Described on IG as having “serene cafe energy” — it’s not loud, not too crowded, but very thoughtfully designed. Instagram

• They make syrups in-house, which suggests their drinks are creative and crafted with care. Instagram

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• According to local posts, their brewed coffee is “top-tier.” 

  “lami ilang coffee … probably best i have tried so far that brewed.” Reddit+1

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
   

Why Visit:

• A haven for coffee purists who want good-quality brewed coffee in a chill setting.

• Great for introspective mornings, journaling, or catching up with a friend in a calm space.

• If you like trying unique coffee-based drinks, their house-made syrups are a plus.

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Cebu’s café culture is no longer just about mall coffee shops — these eight cafés reflect a growing trend toward more intimate, thoughtful, and creative hangout spaces. Whether you're craving a hearty meal, a beautifully crafted drink, or simply a quiet corner to recharge, there’s something here for you.

Pro tips for exploring them:

• Bring a notebook or your laptop — many of these are conducive to work or study.

• Try visiting during “off-hours” (weekday mornings or afternoons) to fully enjoy the calm vibe.

• Take photos — these cafés have great aesthetic potential, from handcrafted drinks to cozy interiors.

Traveling is one of the best ways to reset your mind, discover new cultures, and enjoy a well-deserved break. Whether you’re escaping to the beach, exploring a mountain town, or flying abroad, having reliable travel gear makes a world of difference.

No matter how short or long your trip is, the right bags and accessories help you stay organized, stylish, and stress-free. Here’s your ultimate list of must-have travel essentials — handpicked for every kind of traveler.

 1. The All-Around Carry-On Backpack

If there’s one bag you should invest in, it’s a carry-on backpack that fits everything you need without weighing you down. Look for:

• Multiple compartments for clothes, gadgets, and travel documents.

• Laptop sleeves to keep your tech safe.

• Hidden pockets for cash and passports.

• Water-resistant fabric for unpredictable weather.

✨ Product Pick:
A 35L expandable travel backpack with built-in USB charging ports and adjustable straps. It’s sleek, lightweight, and fits perfectly in the overhead bin — ideal for solo travelers or moms on the go.

Why you’ll love it: It keeps you hands-free while juggling kids, luggage, or that much-needed cup of coffee.

 2. The Convertible Tote Bag

Every stylish traveler needs a tote bag that does more than just look good. A convertible tote can easily switch from a handbag to a backpack or crossbody, depending on your outfit or activity for the day.

Look for:

• Detachable straps

• Padded laptop sleeve

• Spacious main compartment for essentials

• Easy-access outer pocket for phone or wallet

✨ Product Pick:
A vegan leather tote with gold hardware and soft straps that won’t dig into your shoulders. Perfect for shopping days, cafe work sessions, or exploring new cities.

Why you’ll love it: It transitions effortlessly from airport fashion to brunch chic.

 3. The Compact Foldable Daypack

When you’re sightseeing or hiking, you need something light and packable. A foldable daypack is perfect for carrying water bottles, snacks, and souvenirs.

✨ Product Pick:
A waterproof nylon daypack that folds into its own pouch. It has adjustable padded straps and side mesh pockets for bottles.

Why you’ll love it: It saves space in your luggage and is perfect for spontaneous day trips.

 4. The Travel Vanity Organizer

For beauty lovers, a good vanity organizer is non-negotiable. Keep your skincare, makeup, and perfume safe in a multi-compartment travel case.

✨ Product Pick:
A portable hanging toiletry bag with clear zip compartments and a 360° swivel hook for easy access.

Why you’ll love it: No more digging through messy pouches — everything is neatly displayed and spill-proof.

 5. The Shoe Pouch & Laundry Bag Set

Packing shoes with clothes can be tricky (and a little messy!). A shoe pouch separates them neatly while keeping your clothes fresh. Add a laundry bag for worn clothes so you can unpack easily when you get home.

✨ Product Pick:
A travel set that includes waterproof shoe pouches, a laundry bag, and compression cubes to save space.

Why you’ll love it: It keeps your suitcase fresh and organized from start to finish.

 6. The Tech Organizer for Digital Nomads

Whether you’re a freelancer, content creator, or remote worker, keeping your gadgets organized while traveling is a must.

✨ Product Pick:
A compact tech case with elastic loops and mesh pockets for cords, power banks, SD cards, and adapters.

Why you’ll love it: It prevents tangles and makes recharging devices a breeze during layovers or long rides.

 7. The Travel Comfort Kit

A long journey deserves maximum comfort. Don’t forget a neck pillow, sleep mask, and foldable blanket to make every trip feel luxurious.

✨ Product Pick:
A 3-piece comfort set with memory foam support and breathable fabric.

Why you’ll love it: It makes napping on planes or buses so much easier — no stiff necks, just sweet dreams.

 8. The Sustainable Travel Set

If you love eco-friendly options, switch to reusable containers and bamboo travel utensils. Not only do they help the planet, but they also look minimalist and chic in your bag.

✨ Product Pick:
A silicone travel bottle set with refillable pouches, bamboo toothbrush, and mini toiletry jars.

Why you’ll love it: Sustainable, stylish, and perfect for mindful travelers.

✨ Packing Tip: Plan Smart, Travel Light

• Stick to neutrals and mix-and-match clothing to save space.

• Use compression cubes to organize your items by outfit or category.

• Always carry a foldable tote for last-minute shopping or souvenirs.

Remember, traveling light doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style — it’s about being intentional with what you bring.

Traveling is more than just reaching a destination — it’s about embracing new experiences, moments, and stories along the way. With the right bags and gear, you can travel with ease, confidence, and a touch of everyday elegance.

Whether you’re heading out for a weekend staycation or your dream international trip, pack smart, stay stylish, and enjoy the adventure that awaits you.

Forget boring book shopping—National Book Store is transforming the hunt for your next read into an epic adventure. Welcome to The National Hunt, a nationwide search where prizes are hidden inside books and on bookshelves, waiting for lucky readers to find them.

This isn't your average book hunt. Leading the charge is the all-new National Book Squad, a dream team of your favorite Gen Z celebrities: Mika Salamanca, Josh Ford, Kira Balinger, EsnyrRanollo, Will Ashley, and Ralph de Leon. Together, dropping clues across National Book Store branches and hiding special books for you to discover.

Your mission is simple: head to any participating National Book Store and keep an eye out for the exclusive books the National Book Squad has hidden. If you're lucky enough to find one, purchase it—you might just walk away with an incredible prize.

The rewards are anything but ordinary. We're talking major prizes like an Apple iPad, flight vouchers, a DJI Osmo 3, and so much more.

The hunt has already started online! Follow the National Book Squad on their socials for exclusive clues and behind-the-scenes content. Don't miss their videos—your first hint could be waiting there.

Are you ready to turn your next book shopping trip into a treasure hunt? 

Follow National Book Store on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for all the latest updates. 

Let the hunt begin!

Movie lovers in Cebu, the wait is over! SM City Cebu has officially unveiled the IMAX with Laser, bringing Cebuanos the most advanced and immersive cinema technology available today. If you thought watching on the big screen was already exciting, prepare to have your expectations blown away. 

SM City Cebu (SM Cinema) brings Back IMAX to SM City Cebu, Now Enhanced with Next-Generation Laser Technology 

photo credit: Galdh Beduya

photo credit: Elle's TV FB Page

Beginning with Jaws and Detective Conan: One-Eyed Flashback, Moviegoers Can Enjoy IMAX’s Most Advanced Theatre Experience 

SM Cinema announces the re-opening of its IMAX Theatre at SM City Cebu featuring the brand-new IMAX with Laser, a next generation laser projection and multi-channel sound system that delivers crystal clear, lifelike images and precision audio for a moviegoing experience unlike anything else. To mark its opening week on September 17–23, 2025, the new IMAX Cebu will be showcasing exclusive and comeback screenings of Jaws and Detective Conan: One-Eyed Flashback, giving audiences a fresh way to experience these films again in IMAX with Laser. 

IMAX with Laser is set apart by its 4K laser projection system featuring a new optical engine and a suite of proprietary IMAX technology that delivers crystal clear images, increased resolution, deeper contrast, as well as the most distinct, exotic colors ever available on-screen. The experience also features next generation IMAX precision sound, delivering greater dynamic range and precision for the ultimate in audio immersion. 

SM Cinema also introduces several additional moviegoing enhancements including luxury plush rocker seating, redesigned entryways, and a total seating capacity of 363. 

Moviegoers can enjoy this redefined cinema experience with tickets priced at ₱850 for Regular admission and ₱990 for VIP admission, inclusive of popcorn and drinks. 

With IMAX with Laser, moviegoers at SM City Cebu can experience: 

• Crystal Clear IMAX Laser Projection: Increased resolution, sharper and brighter images, deeper contrasts, as well as the widest range of colors available to filmmakers to deliver the most life-like visuals for moviegoers. 

• Next Generation IMAX Precision Sound: Patented sound technology delivers striking clarity and depth alongside perfectly tuned sound and evenly distributed audio throughout the theatre. 

• IMAX Immersion by Design: Custom-designed theatres with stadium seating for clear vantage points at every seat, as well as custom screens for the brightest images. 

As part of SM Cinema’s grand launch of the IMAX with Laser at SM City Cebu on September 17, 2025, Jaws was digitally re-mastered specifically for the new system with proprietary IMAX DMR® (Digital Re-mastering) technology to take advantage of the increased sharpness, brightness, contrast, color, and other attributes it delivers. The process enhanced the image frame-by-frame and remixed the soundtrack to transport audiences beyond their seat and into the world of the film. The screening was held exclusively for invited media partners, key opinion leaders, and special guests, giving them first dibs on experiencing the all-new IMAX with Laser. 

With its cutting-edge technology and premium amenities, everyone is invited to catch the latest blockbusters and experience movies like never before at SM Cinema’s upgraded IMAX with Laser Theatre in SM City Cebu as it now stands as the premier cinema destination in the region. 

What Makes IMAX with Laser Different?

This isn’t just another movie theater upgrade — this is a full-on revolution in the way we experience films.

• Next-Level Visuals Say goodbye to dull, faded screens. IMAX with Laser uses laser projection technology to deliver the sharpest images, the deepest blacks, and colors that pop right off the screen. From the tiniest details to the biggest explosions, everything feels larger than life.

• Immersive Sound Imagine hearing every whisper, every note of music, and every explosion with crystal-clear precision. The IMAX signature sound system is designed to surround you completely — making you feel like you’re inside the film.

• Designed for Comfort The seating and theater layout are crafted to give you the best possible view, no matter where you’re seated. You don’t just watch the movie — you experience it.

Officially Open in Cebu

The launch of IMAX with Laser at SM City Cebu took place on September 17, 2025, marking another milestone for SM Cinema in bringing world-class entertainment to Filipino audiences.

From Hollywood blockbusters to epic adventures, Cebu moviegoers can now enjoy films the way directors intended — on a massive screen, powered by groundbreaking technology.

 Why You Should Check It Out

• Perfect for family bonding Bring the kids and watch their faces light up as they experience the magic of IMAX for the first time.

• Great for date nights Nothing beats the thrill of watching a jaw-dropping blockbuster together in the most cinematic way possible.

• Ideal for movie buffs If you love film, then you owe it to yourself to watch it in the format that offers the highest standard of cinema today.

What’s Showing?

Blockbusters, action films, superhero flicks, and even visually stunning documentaries will feel more alive here. Check out the current showtimes on SM Cinema Cebu’s official site or the SM Cinema app to see what’s playing in IMAX with Laser.

Be One of the First!

Don’t just hear about it from others — be one of the first in Cebu to experience this game-changing theater upgrade. Bring your family, your friends, or your significant other, and step into a new world of cinema at SM City Cebu IMAX with Laser.

The future of movie-watching has officially landed in Cebu — and it’s waiting for you at SM City Cebu.

About IMAX with Laser at SM Cinema 

IMAX with Laser at SM Cinema redefines the movie-going experience with groundbreaking projection and sound technology. Featuring sharper images, deeper contrast, and the most lifelike colors paired with immersive audio, IMAX with Laser brings films to life in unparalleled clarity and scale. 

As part of SM Cinema’s expansion, SM Cinema is home to six IMAX with Laser theatres across the country, out of a total of eight IMAX branches nationwide — making it the leading provider of the IMAX experience in the Philippines. 

SM Cinema currently has eight IMAX locations across the Philippines: IMAX North EDSA, IMAX Megamall, IMAX Mall of Asia, IMAX Aura, IMAX Clark, IMAX Cebu, IMAX Iloilo, and IMAX Lanang. 

As the country’s largest cinema exhibitor, SM Cinema continues to push the boundaries of big-screen entertainment by giving Filipino audiences access to the most advanced cinematic technology in the world.

When we moved here down south, we attended church here at Gregory the Great Parish Church in Ginatilan. Nestled in a quiet coastal town, this centuries-old church isn’t just a place of worship—it’s a living reminder of Cebu’s rich Catholic heritage, a witness to historic events, and the inspiring story of San Pedro Calungsod, the second Filipino saint who traces his roots back to this town.

The Historical Significance of Ginatilan

Ginatilan may be small, but it holds a big place in Philippine Catholic history. The town is strongly connected with Pedro Calungsod, a young Visayan catechist and missionary who was martyred in the Marianas Islands in 1672. His bravery in defending the faith continues to inspire Catholics worldwide. Pilgrims often visit Ginatilan not only to admire its old church but also to connect with the spiritual legacy of this saint.

Historic Events Surrounding St. Gregory Parish

The parish was founded in 1829, during the Spanish colonial era, when Ginatilan was established as a separate town from Samboan. The church was constructed using coral stones and lime mortar, with labor from locals, under the supervision of Spanish friars.

Over the years, the church has stood witness to:

• Spanish Colonial Rule (1829–1898) The church was central to daily life, where faith and governance often went hand in hand. Festivals and church events brought the community together.

• The Philippine Revolution (1896–1898) Like many towns in Cebu, Ginatilan experienced upheavals, and the parish served as a refuge and spiritual anchor during times of uncertainty.

• World War II (1940s) Oral histories say that like other southern Cebu churches, St. Gregory Parish served as both a sanctuary for civilians and a silent witness to the Japanese occupation.

• Pedro Calungsod’s Canonization (2012) Although centuries after his martyrdom, his canonization turned Ginatilan into a pilgrimage site for devotees wanting to trace the saint’s roots.

Each generation of parishioners has helped preserve the church, making it not only a place of worship but also a heritage site that tells the story of resilience and faith.

The Architecture of St. Gregory Parish

Walking up to the church, the first thing you’ll notice is its classic Spanish colonial architecture. Its façade is simple yet imposing, built from coral stones, with a belfry that has guided parishioners for almost two centuries. Inside, the church preserves much of its old charm—arched ceilings, carved wooden retablos, and timeworn religious icons that have been part of countless processions and feast days.

The church stands as a cultural treasure, showing how faith and Filipino artistry combined to build something meant to last for generations.

A Family Pilgrimage Stop

Visiting St. Gregory the Great Parish was more than just sightseeing for us—it was a faith and history experience. Sitting in the pews, I reflected on Pedro Calungsod’s courage, the countless historic events this church had survived, and the role it continues to play in strengthening the faith of the community.

For our kids, it was also an opportunity to learn: not just about a saint, but about how history, culture, and faith shape who we are today.

Why You Should Visit

If you’re traveling around South Cebu, whether for beaches, waterfalls, or mountain adventures, make time to stop by St. Gregory the Great Parish in Ginatilan. It’s not just a church—it’s a historical landmark, a pilgrimage site, and a reminder of the enduring Filipino faith.

Travel Tip: Pair your visit with a trip to Inambakan Falls, just nearby, so you can immerse yourself in both the natural and spiritual beauty of Ginatilan.