Monday, October 1, 2007

Nothing Yet

There's nothing yet to post something controversial about Cebu's internet and IT scene. Though my previous questions about the whereabouts of what was once popular cebu based websites remained unanswered and so we just keep on speculating what had happened to them.

Just keep on visiting and post any controversial news and comments that you would like us to know.

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Forum Where?

The year 2003 was the onslaught of Cebu discussion boards and forums. But since the internet is an ever changing landscape and at the present times most of these have been overtaken with web 2.0 sites that provides for more inter-activity and greater internet user participation.

Again, what happened to these forums now;


www.teamrevindel.com
www.chikaground.net
www.artistsassembly.com


Where are they now.

Filmmaking Group

Where are the filmmaking groups in Cebu now? What have they produced so far? Any noteworthy news?

There used to be an event at Handuraw for showing of local indie films but hey Handuraw have closed their doors too. And so where have all the Cebuano filmmakers gone....

Change In Format

Since this blog has already acquired a new domain and so I would be changing its format from Cebu infoblog to a somesort of blog for blind items pertaining to Cebu. Here's for a start;

What happened now to a graphic multimedia company who used to do the graphic o.b.b of some of the local cable channel here in Cebu. Yes, they are good in creating eye popping graphics animation but where the hell they are now. I have checked their website site but it is no longer available.

Here's a hint, their animations used to be shown at the Fuente Osmeña video billboard.

Tuesday, September 4, 2007

Totally Cebu

Thanks for visiting. We have a new domain now. Please proceed to TotallyCebu.com

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

The Feast of Sinulog: Cebuano Heritage


Okay, now let’s see. The first time I saw the yearly celebration of Sinulog was on television and that was way back in the early 90’s. I was still a kid though and I didn’t know what it’s all about… but I did like the colors and choreographies.

Let’s take a little peak about the Sinulog festival’s history, briefly.

It began years ago back in April 7, 1521, to be precise, when a Portuguese explorer named Fernando de Magallanes landed in the beaches of the early Cebu. He was greeted by Rajah Humabon and in return, Magallanes presented an image of the child Jesus, a Santo Nino, to Humabon’s wife, Hara Humamay. Upon receiving the image, it was said that she danced with joy and, along with her, the townsmen followed. This was thought to be the first celebration of Sinulog.

Since then, the celebration has been forgotten until 1980 when the Cebuanos proclaimed the first actual celebration of Sinulog. From then on, year by year dancers from Cebu put on several costumes, masks, face paints and heavy presentation of dancing to honor the Santo Nino. Currently, this has paved way for several participants from several locations of the Philippines to take part of the festivity.

I have been able to take part with this celebration since we moved to Cebu in the early 90’s. The Sinulog parade begins in the early morning when the rerouting of jeepneys and several vehicle directions are posted on the newspapers as well as reports on local television. Me and my parents would normally embrace the long-distance walk from kilometers away to watch the live parade. Several places are jampacked; the malls, restaurants, hotels and others. The streets are flooded by people, captioned with the excitement and delight about the celebration. The fun starts whenever we arrive at the presentation spot where thousands of people flock together to watch several groups of dancers strut their stuff along with the Sinulog beat. This albeit the dreaded heat and the distance of what they are about to go.

At the end of the day, remnants of the celebration linger and it’s time for the people, who attended the celebration, to rest. But to all Cebuanos who have attended or watched the celebration, be it live or television, the excitement of the event is hinted anew and to expect the same celebration again the next year. Now, that’s something worth waiting for.

Sunday, August 19, 2007

Bisrock: The Elevation of Cebuano Music

The slow revolution of Cebuano music has elevated itself to become one of the most celebrated genres of today. Actually, through the years, I’ve been hearing songs from notable Cebuano singers/composers such as Max Surban and Yoyoy Villame and they do have talents as well as skills into making their songs match their personalities. And the melodies are contagious too. They do it naturally and it sticks to the minds of the people who have heard it. And lucky me, I do hear those kind of songs ever since I opened my eyes the first time.

Today, the modern Cebuano music, or popularly known as bisrock, has encouraged several Cebuanos to give the Cebuano language the full-blast back into the music scene. Especially for the young minds, this is an opportunity to contribute what they have to the vast world of music and not just simply do “cover songs” to boost their status to the higher rankings. Now all they have to do is to put their minds to the extent into making original Cebuano compositions that unfolds the discovery of creativeness that are dwelling inside the minds of every Cebuano.

Bisrock, is short for “bisaya na rock”. “Bisaya” is the Cebuano term for Cebuano language and this has proved to become the ultimate name for the new genre, that is, modern Cebuano music. Talented individuals have provided their own compositions and have notched up to be heard by everybody on the radio waves and especially to the whole world. This goes to show that Cebuanos are in for the ride and not to be left over. After all, the local scene has geared towards the unfolding of the new generation and bisrock is one of them.

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Istorya.Net




Southern Philippine’s premiere discussion/forums abode

Websites are the common places that we can entirely find out something about a certain subject and learn something about its history and background. Actually, I’ve been dwelling into a certain website that focuses mostly on my interests. I seem to be on the verge of lameness until I stumbled upon the development of discussion threads or message boards that discusses about the certain topics. The most interesting thing about this website is that, most of the members are Cebuanos. “Now this is new”, I said. I clicked the link and there popped out istorya.net/forums.

“istorya”, in English, meaning “talk” gave me the overall idea that it provides the opportunity for someone like me to jump on the bandwagon and get involved. Of course, it gives me a great feeling that a website like this exists, not only to the Cebuanos but to the world.

Istorya.net is actually more into just forums since they also feature several destinations and gives opportunity to every member to post their pictures and images to artistic values or simply share photos that captivates the Cebuano lifestyle. Also, the people of istorya.net not only posts their messages and views about certain subjects, they also provide help to the less fortunate ones who are struggling to keep themselves in their lives. Together with all these features, istorya.net continues to dominate the Cebuano online spot where some discovers great opportunities to discuss something like national and local politics, sports and recreations, share funny stories, great destinations for local and tourists and other things.

I started out back in October 2005 and, up to now, I still enjoy posting my point of views, especially about NBA basketball. I did explore some of the website’s other threads and there are a lot of people getting involved in several discussions. This goes to show that Cebuanos do have their own perspectives when it comes to certain things and that istorya.net is the place where they can share their views and converse, be it with sense or not.

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

University of San Carlos – Technological Center

Location: Talamban, Cebu City

It started with the idea, years ago, that the University of San Carlos – Technological Center,which is located in Talamban, was dubbed as the one of the most, if not, the most “coolest” place to be among several colleges. The rugged look, jagged attitude yet sophisticated lifestyle in college of USC-TC have embraced the popularity by standpoint from most students in the whole Cebu. Actually, I didn’t believe that idea until I got enrolled back in the year 2000, the year in which the controversial issue of ROTC rocked every university and college in the whole country. I had a choice to enroll either IT (Information Technology) or Fine Arts and I chose the latter since I had a bit of background in the sketching and drawing department. But, the real life is not always involved in the vast space of getting educated and getting involved with the art fiasco and other stuff since it is also about how you handle your life outside of the school and to get acquainted with the college life… and I have been able to learn what USC-TC is all about. However, that is for me to keep.

Fast forward seven years later, I found myself not able to cope with my studies albeit of some encouragements. But that doesn’t mean that I wasn’t able to learn something out of the experiences I have in that school, not to mention the relationships between the students and teachers, especially in the Fine Arts department. Also, there are also the issues that have brought certain conflict between the students and the school management but, I guess, who hasn’t? I didn’t always like the idea of not wearing tee shirts under my polo back in high school though and with institutions like these, they always have their rules and regulations to impose and for it to be followed according to the decree. Some of these can be somewhat hard to follow but, for me, these requirements enable us to follow certain rules in our lives thereon and how to deal with them effectively.

Anyway, I don’t want to be serious about going through the idea of living our lives and about sentimental subjects since I’m not that dead serious. I’m simply talking about my alma mater, the University of San Carlos – Technological Center, and several major college schools in Cebu, like University of Cebu, University of Visayas, South Western University and others, that gives us the opportunity to become better persons through learning not just our enrolled courses but also the gravity of significant experiences that we’ll obtain in and out of the school gates. Be it good or bad, the important thing is, we are able to distinguish what sort of chapter we are in and where should we be going next.

Table 7

Location: Lagoon Area of Ayala Center Cebu

First off, you may wonder a bit about what fusion cuisine/food is all about. Some people would think that it is the art of food; some would find it the creativity of food preparation that instills a little bit of blending at least two or three food cultures from any place of the planet. Actually, I researched a little bit about it and found out that those descriptions are true. Would it be nice to put a little bit of Carribean style with a sprinkle of Middle East ingredients and South American menus into something out of the ordinary special plate? Now, that’s way out of the ordinary.

However, I’m not going to delve into its long history since the definition is already there and it could go misleading to my intended subject. Anyway, I was a bit curious about this innovative style of “food art” and thought about trying it. Luckily, my girlfriend was able to spot this restaurant by the Ayala Center lagoon area called Table 7. So, we decided to go and try it out, one evening, to satisfy our curiosity and invest on some self image. The waitresses were accommodating when we arrived and they even let us transfer from table after table since it was too cold inside courtesy of their “full-blast” air conditioning (I don’t mean to be fussy but it was really that cold). Anyway, the waitress gave us the menu and we were able to order right only about 15-20 minutes later since we were asking each other what kind of food is this one and that one. We didn’t want to ask the waitress though since it’s a matter of surprise. So, she ordered the blue marlin and me, the tiger shrimps, since I’m fond of seafoods.

First, they served our soup then our food 20-25 minutes later, which could be forever if you’re alone but I’m with my girlfriend just talking about how great the ambiance is inside. And there on our table, the fine impression of food art was served with its distinctive presentation and the conclusion on what fusion cuisine is all about. Fortunately, me and my girlfriend tried to fathom what the deal is all about since we both know our art aesthetics after 4-5 years of studying Fine Arts. Unfortunately though, my empty tummy made it more complicated so we simply tried it out. My first taste was a bit of confusing since, of course, it’s a mixture of different food cultures. Bite after bite, we were able to finish the whole plate and started staring at each other.

The critique? Fine food and luscious taste with the essence of food innovation and art appreciation doesn’t always please everybody. We were quite pleased, yes… or more, that is, if only their food serving is actually quite filling on first glance, at least for me. But anyway, the idea of food cuisine is, indeed, not for me, my girlfriend and to those who simply like to munch and gulp than the attractiveness or beauty of the menu… but that doesn’t mean that it’s disappointing. It is more of like, in Advertising terms, for the higher target market and for those who anoint food for art.

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Sunburst Fried Chicken SM

We usually dine at Sunburst specially after an exhausting spree at the mall. Sounds like spending millions. I have not tried their other food offerings as we usually ask for the chicken Sunduo and Solo. These are chicken combo meals served with some sliced potato usually in three and a coleslaw. The difference between Sundou and Solo is just the number of chicken parts served. Well, you can ask for which part or parts to be served as I usually go for the drumstick and the thigh.

Food preparation will take about 10 to 20 minutes but we don't have any complain as the chickens are served right from the pan. It is served in oozing glory with the aroma of chicken's cholesterol but its ok as I do practice balance diet. To prep up our starving stomach while waiting for the main course, sometimes we ask for a mushroom soap which I guess decent enough to taste like mushroom. Hey, Im not an expert on food but they are served just as fine. Its not a gastronomic delight but good enough to fill your empty stomach.

The interior design is acceptable as the wooden chair and tables somehow complements with every other fixtures within the restaurant and that includes the waiters' uniform. Yellow is their color theme like the "sunburst" of course.

The only thing that I can't stand with Sunburst SM is the slow service particularly on billings. At their Mandaue branch the bill arrives in just a matter of seconds since they have a fully automated ordering and billing system. Why couldn't they implement it at their SM branch which I guess is serving greater number of customers.

Saturday, July 21, 2007

Strange but True

Cebuanos really excel in performing arts where ever or who ever they are. I could not hold my amazement when I stumbled upon a foreign website that features the story of 1500 prisoner from Cebu Provincial jail doing the Michael Jackson's thriller. Truly, I am dumbfounded.

This video from youtube is gaining global attention as I did a search which ended with a lot of weblinks relating to it. It generated a lot of buzz and some witty comments like these; "This is even better than my Oops... I Did It Again video.,"Oooohhh! What a bunch of "Smooth Criminals!" and this "Just, wow. What with the U.S.'s burgeoning prison population and the popularity of So You Think You Can Dance-type reality shows, I see a lot of potential here!". Just watch it.

Friday, July 20, 2007

Channel 36 RCTV

There a lot of Cebu based local cable channels and one them is Real Cebu Television or RCTV for short. Not much of a choice though as I am not fond of watching their shows except for some strange one like "Smol Tym" of Budoy.

There's nothing much to say except that their programming is geared towards commercials rather than a regular show. That is why I could not last more than two minutes without changing to another channel. One of my friend once told me that watching RCTV for an hour can make you buy a memorial park lot. Their major advertisers are park developers though. Anyway, we have to understand that because thats their only way to earn a living and I think they still need the support of the Cebuano populace to keep going. Perhaps in the future they will rehash their programming once advertisers are coming in. Thats it.

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

OutPost


I was invited by a friend of mine to witness his band perform in a restobar aptly called "The Outpost". The place is nice as it was once a residence and so it doesn't look and feel the same as with other restobars in town. They have different setting area to choose from. You can choose to watch a band perform inside, an enclosed place, with a loud head banging sound or you and your friends can have it outside where a japanese style table awaits you. I am not sure if it was a Japanese kind as I have only observed some people are squatting or setting in a yoga position while having a booze. Just watch for the rain though they have a covered area if you simply want to eat and savor their foods. I haven't tried their restaurant yet as I have only ordered a glass of tea which tastes like tea. Maybe soon I will.

I prefer the exterior because I still can hear the band playing in a muted tone without damaging my sensitive ear. A nice place to wash your boredom away. By the way, Outpost is located at Nivel Hills.

A word caution though as it has a limited parking area. Just don't park your vehicle on the street as it might get towed. Lucky me, I was able to get on time while the towing crew of CITOM is about to pull my car away.

Spice Fusion


Spice Fusion, the only restaurant in Cebu that I have known to satisfy my craving for delicious Asian food. There's a lot to choose from as there are wide varieties of meat food to seafood being served. Likewise the food serving is generous. The ambiance is not that cozy but is just right for everyone who comes for the food and not for its architecture. The price is reasonable enough considering how the food is being prepared and served. If you plan to visit the place be there as early as possible as it is usually attacked by some hungry mob and might run out of table.

I could not describe how the food tastes but it is on the tip of my tongue. Just pay a visit and try it yourself. You will never regret it. I'll be back there soon.

Next: Outposts

Monday, July 16, 2007

Eksena.Net


There's only one Cebuano website I know that religiously support the Visayan Rock Music Scene. Eksena.Net is the name. The guy or people behind it must be full of zeal and enthusiasm as reflected by the way the site is being kept and maintained. I am deeply inspired by these people. Though some efforts can be seen by having it supported with online ads but I guess these are not enough to cover the expenses of maintaining this one of a kind Cebuano website. Perhaps in the future this site will earn what it deserves to.

I have not meet the guy or guys behind Eksena but I'm sure his or their sheer passion for Cebuano music, culture and art is what makes them tick. However, I have this vision that in the near future Eksena.Net will become one of the forerunners of Revolution. The Revolution of Visayan Music and Arts. Their effort will never go unnoticed.

5 Stars and Two Thumbs Up for the people or person behind Eksena.Net

Sunday, July 15, 2007

Western Union


Western Union service as provided by M.Lhuiller is really excellent. Just imagine being able to receive money from different parts of the world in minutes. And you have the option to receive it in local currency or from the currency of which the money is sent from. Likewise, it is faster to process and receive the fund as it would only take about 15 minutes though they require a valid Identification Card.

To make us feel good, Western Union customers are provided with an air conditioned room for safety and convenience. The service charge is reasonable enough as it is only about 12 percent of the total fund being transferred.

Saturday, July 14, 2007

Ayala On Stage


For the best theater experience in Cebu nothing beats Ayala On-stage. The comfy seats and nerve wracking Dolby system surround will give you the most value for your money. Likewise, the excellent seating configuration can make everyone enjoy the movie in its wide screen glory wherever they are seated inside the theater. Its is clean and smells good.

My latest experience with On Stage was during the screening of Die Hard 4.0. Though In my opinion the movie has not provided a very good climax but nevertheless the theater's supercharged sound system has given us the necessary adrenaline rush to keep our attention focused on the movie's action scenes.

Ayala Cebu On Stage

Parking at the Malls



Of the two big malls in the city, Ayala and SM, I think SM is more generous in providing their customers with ample parking space and that is for free. Likewise, their customer service is excellent not only they provide transport facilities to ferry customers from the parking area to the mall's entrance. They also have "umbrella people" on standby specially during heavy downpour. These people provides shelter from the rain while accompanying you from the mall's exit to where your vehicle is located. It is really a nice thing to know that we are pampered and that SM management should be commended for this. We know that SM expansion is not yet finished but they have not neglected their customers as they are still able to provide the best service they can afford. A basement parking is included in the expansion project and we don't know yet if they will be charging for parking fees. Another review for that soon.

Ayala on other hand, is not that sensitive enough to provide their customers with accessible free parking area. Yes, there are free parking space, two areas are designated for free parking, but its not that convenient as it is located far away from the mall's main entrance. Not to mention that it can only accommodate a limited number of vehicles. And they don't have those "umbrella guys" either nor a transport facility as provided by SM. Ayala's basement parking facility is good but it will cost you 20 pesos.

"Two Thumbs Up" for SM's excellent parking service.

Images are sourced from their respective websites:
http://www.smprime.com/Supermalls.php?MallsID=21
http://www.ayalamalls.com.ph/content/cebu.asp

Everything Cebu


Cebu is getting big and no question about it. We have international facilities here such as the Cebu International Convention Center. We have malls. We have world class resorts and five star hotels. Even renowned international corporations have started to relocate here. The city has a big potential to become one of Asia's business and tourism hub.

And so it is just about time to have a site that provides a first hand review of products and services that are offered and which can only be found in this lovely and vibrant city of ours.

You can make some contribution too.