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Short Sturya # 1 – Mark Munel
In this first Short Sturya, Mark Munel talks about his passion for art and mobile photography while imparting the lessons that life has given him. This year, he recently lost two significant people in his life who stood as important pillars that molded him into who he is today. As Mark Munel continues his journey in life, he finds comfort and inspiration in his artistic pursuits, specifically in mobile photography. Through his lens, he captures the beauty and resilience of the human spirit, often drawing…
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Ralph Barajan: True Courage in the Face of Adversity
When the M/V Siargao Princess began to sink on November 7, 2019, (former) Philippine Coast Guard officer and registered nurse Ralph Barajan took command—calming chaos, organizing survivors and helping save 62 lives. His bravery later earned the IMO Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea It was a bright, sunny morning on November 7, 2019, with clear skies and calm seas. The horizon looked peaceful, promising a smooth voyage to the passengers of the M/V Siargao Princess towards their destination in Sibonga, Cebu. Ralph Barajan was…
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How Jean Found True Love on a Plane: 7 Lessons for a Happy Marriage
An unexpected seat swap turned into a life partner—Jean shares what really sustains love beyond the butterflies “It all started with ‘Hi and Hello.’” As soon as Jean Cabatingan-Moore began narrating her story, it felt like I was watching the plot unfold straight out of a romantic movie. I couldn’t help but be reminded of the movie, “Love at First Sight.” Jean was on her way back home for the holidays and the hour-long flight from Manila to Bohol was the last leg of the…
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Sheryl Guir: An Embodiment of a Strong, Resilient Woman
From grief to grace, Sheryl chooses courage, community, and small daily wins to raise two daughters and rebuild a meaningful life When life gives you lemons, what do you do? The proverbial phrase tells us to make lemonade, but Sheryl Guir chooses to make Margaritas instead. This is how she transforms even the sourest and most bitter moments of her life into sources of strength, becoming the strong and resilient woman she is today. A Multifaceted Woman A single mom of two, Sheryl wears many…
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5 Lessons I Learned When My Dad Was in the ICU
The past month was undoubtedly a roller coaster ride full of challenges and emotional distress for me and my family. My dad was rushed to the hospital with a critical condition, and after a week, his condition worsened. We decided to transfer to another facility since we could no longer afford the bills. We spent another week at a government hospital and tried to remain resilient and optimistic throughout this ordeal. However, the Lord had other plans. My dad joined the Creator on September 4,…
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A Glimpse of Cebu’s Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark
Despite the strong, cold gusts of Super Typhoon Egay (Doksuri) ravaging the whole country, the cold weather didn’t stop vacationers from enjoying countless dips and dives at the Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. When we stepped into this luxury family destination, I was eager to see what this 5-star hotel and resort offered to what seemed like an unending drive of tourists (mostly Koreans). Thanks to the newly built CCLEX, the travel time from mainland Cebu to Mactan Island has been…
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Seven Breastfeeding Tips For First-time Moms, As Told By A Lactation Consultant
Breastfeeding is one obstacle many mothers find challenging to master, and I couldn’t agree more! As a first-time mom, I also had ups and downs trying to produce milk for my little one. The first month was a rollercoaster ride, but thanks to lactation consultant Janice Bustamante-Aton, I was able to sail through this new journey with ease. Every August, we celebrate National Breastfeeding Month. I had the privilege of speaking with Janice or “Ate Ja” about the challenges of breastfeeding, especially for first-time moms. While the…
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From Dreamer to Aesthetic Doctor: How Rovi Found Her True Calling
From Oncology track to aesthetic practice, Rovi chose work–life balance and the freedom to help patients feel confident—on their own terms Sometimes, life’s most profound decisions arise from the unlikeliest circumstances. Such is the case for the talented and sophisticated Rovi Valerie Baguhin-Cayetuna, MD, whose steadfast dedication to saving lives took an unexpected turn. Her journey is a testament that life’s truest fulfillment lies in embracing the unforeseen. Rovi, an epitome of grace and intellect, stood out wherever she went. Our paths crossed during high school,…
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Celebrating Fatherhood: A Tribute to the Unsung Heroes
Today, we celebrate a momentous day for the unsung heroes who have played a significant role in our lives–the fathers. They have been the backbone of our families, the ones who have worked day and night to provide for us, and the source of strength and the amusing (and sometimes corny) dad jokes that hold everything together. On this Father’s Day, let’s pay tribute to the remarkable contributions fathers have made in molding our lives and being the pillar of support we can always count…
