Experience a Revitalizing Journey to Filipino Heritage at Nawa: Exploring Herbalism, Authentic Wellness, and Paleo-Filipino Cuisine

CALATAGAN, PHILIPPINES – Nawa, deriving its name from the Filipino word for “wish,” emerges as an undiscovered treasure in the heart of Calatagan, serving as a cultural epicenter that celebrates the Philippine legacy. The sanctuary elegantly intertwines herbalism, authentic health regimens, and prehistoric Filipino gastronomy, providing a multifaceted approach to wellness.

The resort, a proud venture of the Araw Hospitality Group, reaffirms its commitment to time-tested wellness by championing herbalism, humanity’s earliest known form of medicine. Leveraging the abundant native Filipino herbs, Nawa serves as a conduit to nature’s healing secrets. The Herbal Apothecary is an integral part of the retreat, presenting traditional herbal remedies that include the sacred practice of smudging, a unique method of space purification through energy cleansing. Visitors are also invited to participate in the transformative Madre Kakau and Hapé ceremonies, harking back to Amazonian shamanic healing rituals.

Nawa’s commitment to fostering health also extends to a variety of wellness experiences. Accommodations offer roomy, breathable villas and teepee huts facing mountainsides, embodying an idyllic island atmosphere. The wellness center provides an array of services from a full-service spa, meditation studio, to a sauna and steam room, promoting indulgence and tranquility.

Moreover, the wellness studio caters to various activities such as yoga, mat Pilates, personal training, and circuit training, proven methodologies to invigorate latent energy, improve flexibility, and enhance movement and breath consciousness.

When it comes to gastronomic feasts, Nawa intertwines wellness with soul-nourishing food. Dining at Nawa transcends the ordinary, offering Paleo-inspired Filipino meals that resonate with the Philippine’s rich culinary customs by utilizing locally procured ingredients that merge outdoor elements indoors through earthen tones, natural finishing materials, and artisan-crafted ceramic ware.

Every aspect of Nawa’s mission to forge a harmonious healing community anchored in Filipino culture and traditions shines through its offerings. By crafting a space that promotes the conservation of mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, Nawa welcomes guests to initiate a wellness journey that forms an integral part of their existence. As visitors saunter through lush canopies and bask in the serene mountain ambiance, they are invited to rekindle their relationship with nature and their inner selves, leaving Nawa with rejuvenated vigor and a profound appreciation for the unique touch, hospitality, and care embodied in Filipino culture.

Embrace Luxury in Simplicity at One Hagdan Villas in Boracay

Nestled in a secluded location on Boracay Island, One Hagdan Villas offers guests a resort experience that is a step above luxury. Their curated collection of villas draws inspiration from the discerning traveler, ensuring world-class comfort, contemporary design, and unparalleled privacy as cornerstones of their reimagined villa experience.

Mirroring the ethos of LIHIM in El Nido, Palawan, One Hagdan Villas embraces the idea of ‘Luxury in Simplicity,’ offering an unapologetically secluded and intimate escape for the discerning traveler. Similar to its inspiration, the villa aims to be the perfect sanctuary for guests to rest, relax, and recharge, providing a discreet destination of choice.

Among the offerings in the Curated Villa Collection is BAITANG, an expansive villa covering 145 square meters with four bedrooms; the equally impressive HAKBANG villa which boasts of a generous space of 193 square meters and four bedrooms; and, BALUSTRE, an elegant villa spanning 156 square meters and featuring four inviting bedrooms.  Prices for these rooms start at Php 23,000.

Each villa is thoughtfully designed to reflect world-class comfort, contemporary aesthetics, and utmost privacy. Guests are invited to unwind in sprawling private spaces, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass that opens to breathtaking views of Boracay’s crystal waters and tropical landscapes. Here, simplicity is interwoven with luxury, creating a seamless blend of nature and refinement.

One Hagdan Villas takes luxury a step further with their curated services. Guests can enjoy the expertise of a private chef to provide customized culinary experiences in the comfort of their villa. Recently, it launched its in-room dining service, which features crave-worthy cuisine from Gana Restaurant. Pantry stocking services ensure that the guests’ preferred products are ready before arrival. For those looking to host a villa party, the Mobile Bar service offers a selection of classic cocktails, mocktails, and more. A private mixologist can also prepare creative libations for guests with their preferred bottles and mixers.

Moreover, each villa is thoughtfully configured with living areas, fully equipped kitchens, bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, spacious decks, private pools, and recreation areas. It caters to both restful relaxation and unforgettable gatherings, providing guests with an exceptional setting for every desire.

In the spirit of LIHIM, One Hagdan Villas is a hidden gem of unparalleled villa luxury in Boracay. As guests step into their private address in paradise, they embark on an unforgettable journey of tranquility, where the essence of luxury lies in the beauty of simplicity.

With an ‘experience like no other’ approach, One Hagdan Villas invites guests to uncover a hidden gem of unparalleled villa luxury in Boracay. Reserve your private address in paradise today!

For inquiries and reservations, visit https://onehagdanvillas.com/, One Hagdan Villas on Facebook or email info@onehagdanvillas.com.

Mactan-Cebu Airport temporarily transfers all departures to Terminal 2

To ensure the safety of passengers and staff during emergency rectification and repairs of damaged structures caused by Typhoon Odette last December 16, 2021, GMR MEGAWIDE Cebu Airport Corporation (GMCAC) will transfer all departures for both Domestic and International flights to Terminal 2 (T2) beginning Sunday, January 16, 2022, 06:00 a.m. PHT. The damage to Terminal 1 (T1) has been far more extensive especially at T1 departure areas which requires an immediate rectification program which will last several months. In order to ensure that users and stakeholders of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) continue to experience a high level of service, safety and security, GMCAC will consolidate all departures in Terminal 2 for the duration of the rectification program.

Domestic arrivals will continue to arrive at T1 South Wing Arrivals as this area is the least damaged section of T1. International Arrivals will also continue to arrive at T2 Arrivals in order to remain fully compliant with the arrival health protocols set by the national government and Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF).

In summary, the following operational concept will be as follows for each terminal:

Terminal 1

  1. All Domestic Arrivals will arrive at T1 South Wing Baggage Reclaim.
  2. Domestic Arriving passengers will access T1 Baggage Reclaim Hall from T2 by connecting airside link bridge or be transported by bus, depending on their designated aircraft parking bay and proximity to the Domestic Baggage Reclaim Hall in T1.
  3. Domestic Arrivals Pick-up for vehicles will remain at T1 Transportation Hub.
  4. Airport Village will remain operational with selected shops open for the benefit of meeters and greeters.

Terminal 2

  1. All Domestic and International Departures will access the upper level of T2 Departures Drop-off with limited waiting time for drop-off to prevent congestion.
  2. Domestic and International passengers will check-in at T2 and proceed through final security check to proceed to their designated boarding gates.
  3. International passengers will be separated from Domestic passengers at entry to the designated international boarding gates which have Immigration Counters located at the entry to the designated gates. 
  4. All passengers (both Domestic and International) will have access to all facilities in T2. However, certain retail outlets specifically for international passengers, such as Duty Free, will not be open due to the very low volume of international departing passengers for now.
  5. International Arriving passengers will access T2 Bureau of Quarantine Verification Counters, Immigration Counters, Baggage Reclaim Hall, and Customs in compliance with the current IATF protocols for arriving international passengers. 

GMCAC will ensure adequate staff guidance and signage is in place to provide passengers with directions and information during the switchover period.

The consolidated mode of operations at T2 will remain so until rectification and repairs of both T1 and T2 have been completed. Passengers and stakeholders shall be notified in advance of any changes to the designated use of Terminals 1 and 2 prior to any change of operations.

Temporary Entry Restrictions for International Arrivals at Mactan-Cebu Airport

(Updated as of March 19, 2021) With reference to the clarification on temporary entry restrictions issued by the National Task Force (NTF) through Memorandum Circular No. 6, s. 2021 on March 18, 2021, only passengers under the following classifications shall be permitted entry into the country via Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) during the restricted period starting 00:01 of March 22, 2021 until 23:59 of April 21, 2021:

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Balik sa Bohol Online Sale to offer massive discounts (Travel requirements to Bohol)

As Bohol reopens its tourism industry, undoubtedly one of its main economic drivers, Bohol tourism stakeholders have collaborated to launch the first ever and biggest selling campaign, dubbed as Balik sa Bohol: Bohol Online Sale, which will run from February 21 to March 14, 2021. Noq is the best time to start planning a visit to the island for those itching to travel once more and enjoy breathtaking beaches, scenic hills, majestic rivers and spectacular dive sites or savor healthy food in an organic farm.

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Updated Arrival Protocols for International Passengers Arriving at Mactan-Cebu Airport

Pursuant to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) Resolution Nos. 96 and 97, all international passengers arriving at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) shall observe the following arrival protocols starting February 1, 2021

Pre-arrival Process

Before your scheduled arrival at MCIA, make sure to complete and ensure the following:

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Philippine Airlines Mid-Year 2020 Promo

We were all excited for 2020 but then, COVID-19 came like The Grinch who stole Christmas and put everything to a halt. But as we look forward to moving on with the new normal, Philippine Airlines, is launching their Mid-Year Special Offer on Monday, July 13, 2020, where travelers can enjoy safe skies and safe travels with the Heart of the Filipino.

For base fares as low as P388 for domestic destinations and USD99 for international destinations, passengers can book their flights for travels from August 1, 2020 up to May 31, 2021.

Time to go back to our bucket list! Whether you’re flying home to your loved ones, going on essential business travels, or planning for that long overdue vacation, passengers may avail of these special fares from July 13 to 19, 2020.

To avail of the offer, passengers may book via  www.philippineairlines.com or call PAL Reservations at (+63 2) 8855 – 8888 or visit any PAL ticketing office or any partner travel agents or through the PAL mobile app.

New Normal, Same Heart

To ensure the safety and protection of all passengers, PAL is strictly implementing an all-out ‘Fly Safe’ set of new normal safety measures and practices – dubbed “New Normal, Same Heart” – that adopts international health and safety protocols while keeping the signature heartfelt service that the airline is known for.

Passengers are encouraged to check in on-line and arrive early at the airport to allocate extra time for new safety procedures. They are also required to wear face masks or facial coverings at all times – at the airport and throughout the flight – and observe physical distance whenever queueing in line or while seated at waiting areas at the airport.

The Philippine flag carrier is one of the first in the world to require cabin crew to wear full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while on board the flight; PAL’s cabin crew also undergo medical evaluation prior to their duty. PAL has modified its inflight meal and snack service, using sealed packaging instead of traditional meal arrangements. On top of these, PAL also offers Onboard Distancing Seat Options in Business Class, Premium Economy, and a designated zone of the Economy Class cabin for passengers
who wish to be extra safe when they fly.

All PAL aircraft are equipped with advanced cabin air systems that continuously infuse fresh air across the cabin (cabin air is replaced every 2 to 3 minutes), as well as High- Efficiency Particulate Air filters (or HEPA filters) that remove viruses, bacteria and other contaminants with 99.99% efficiency. The onboard air creates a controlled and cleaner environment comparable to hospital operating rooms that is safer than most enclosed public spaces.

The flag carrier has partially resumed regular commercial flights to various domestic destinations and key international cities in the US, Asia, Europe, Australia, the Middle East and Canada. PAL has also been operating special missions to repatriate stranded Filipinos and foreign nationals to and from different parts of the world, as well as all-cargo services to transport essential supplies across the Philippines and overseas.

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Sinulog Tribu sa Kabataan 2020 Winners

Formerly called the Sinulog sa Kabataan sa Dakbayan and more recently Sinulog sa Barangay, here are the winners of the recently concluded Sinulog Tribu sa Kabataan 2020.

Best in Musicality:

1st Place: Lumad Basakanon of Barangay Basak San Nicolas (P50,000)
2nd Place: Banauan Cultural Group of Barangay Guadalupe (P35,000)
3rd Place: Banay Labangon of Barangay Labangon (P25,000)
4th Place: Banay San Nicolas of Barangay San Nicolas Proper (P15,000)
5th Place: Banay Budlaan of Barangay Budlaan (P10,000)

Best in Costume:

Lumad Basakanon of Barangay Basak San Nicolas (P50,000)

Best in Streetdancing:

1st Place: Lumad Basakanon of Barangay Basak San Nicolas (P70,000)
2nd Place: Banay Labangon of Barangay San Nicolas Proper (P50,000)
3rd Place: Banay San Nicolas of Barangay San Nicolas Proper (P30,000)
4th Place: Banauan Cultural Group of Barangay Guadalupe (P20,000)
5th Place: Pundok Maampoong Cambihanon of Barangay Cambinocot (P10,000)

Best in Ritual Showdown:

GRAND CHAMPION: Lumad Basakanon of Barangay Basak San Nicolas (P400,000)

Lumad Basakanon of Barangay Basak San Nicolas

2nd Place: Banay Labangon of Barangay Labangon (P350,000)

Banay Labangon of Barangay Labangon

3rd Place: Banauan Cultural Group of Barangay Guadalupe (P300,000)

Banauan Cultural Group of Barangay Guadalupe

4th Place: Banay San Nicolas of Barangay San Nicolas Proper (P250,000)

5th Place: Banay Budlaan of Barangay Budlaan (P200,000)

6th Place: Pundok Maampoong Cambihanon of Barangay Cambinocot (P150,000)

7th Place: Tribu Mabolokon of Barangay Mabolo (P100,000)

Non-winners

Barangay Inayawan

Tribu Kinaiyahan

Barangay Sapangdaku