After years of anticipation from Cebu shoppers, it looks like MUJI is finally making its return to the Queen City of the South.

Local excitement has been building following reports that the beloved Japanese lifestyle retailer will soon open new branches in both SM City Cebu and Ayala Center Cebu, marking a highly anticipated comeback after its previous Cebu store closed several years ago. While MUJI Philippines has yet to announce the official opening dates and store details, news circulating within the local retail community has sparked enthusiasm among Cebuanos eager to shop their favorite minimalist essentials once again.

Why MUJI's Return Matters

MUJI has built a loyal following worldwide for its philosophy of simplicity, functionality, and sustainability.

Unlike many lifestyle brands that focus on flashy branding, MUJI lets its thoughtfully designed products speak for themselves. From stationery and organizers to skincare, apparel, kitchenware, travel accessories, and home essentials, the brand has become synonymous with quality everyday living.

For many Cebuanos, the closure of the original MUJI store in Ayala Center Cebu left a noticeable gap in the city's retail landscape. The original branch, which opened in 2014, was the first MUJI store outside Metro Manila and quickly became a favorite among shoppers seeking practical, minimalist products.

A New Era for Cebu Shopping

The return of MUJI comes at an exciting time for Cebu's retail industry.

Major shopping destinations across the city continue to expand by bringing internationally recognized brands closer to Visayas consumers. Recent developments at SM malls have introduced numerous first-in-Cebu retail and dining concepts, reflecting the city's growing purchasing power and evolving lifestyle preferences.

With MUJI expected to join this wave of expansion, shoppers will once again have convenient access to products that previously required trips to Metro Manila or online orders.

What Can Shoppers Expect?

Although official store layouts have not yet been announced, customers can likely expect MUJI's signature product categories, including:

Home organization and storage

Stationery and office supplies

Skincare and personal care

Clothing for men and women

Kitchen and dining essentials

Travel accessories

Food and snacks

Household items

Sustainable everyday products

MUJI continues to expand throughout the Philippines, recently opening new stores while introducing updated beauty collections, exclusive promotions, and expanded product selections.

Why Everyone Loves MUJI

MUJI has become much more than a retail store.

For many shoppers, it's a destination for finding calm in everyday life. Its clean aesthetic, practical designs, and emphasis on reducing unnecessary waste resonate with people looking to simplify their homes and routines.

Whether you're decorating your first condo, organizing your workspace, building your travel kit, or simply searching for high-quality everyday essentials, MUJI offers products designed with longevity and purpose in mind.

Excitement Continues to Grow

Social media and online communities have been buzzing with excitement over MUJI's return. Many longtime fans have expressed how much they've missed having a physical store in Cebu, while newer shoppers are eager to experience the brand for the first time without traveling outside the province.

As Cebu continues attracting more international brands, MUJI's comeback further reinforces the city's position as one of the country's fastest-growing retail and lifestyle destinations.

Stay Tuned

While shoppers await official confirmation of the grand opening dates and store locations, one thing is certain—MUJI's return is among the most anticipated retail developments in Cebu this year.

If you've been waiting to stock up on minimalist home essentials, Japanese stationery, skincare favorites, or travel accessories, it may not be long before you'll be shopping for them right here in Cebu.

We'll continue updating this article as soon as MUJI Philippines releases official announcements regarding opening schedules and store details.

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CEBU CITY — Balletcenter Cebu, one of the Philippines' longest-running dance institutions, is marking a historic milestone with Balletcenter Spectacular: 75 Years of Dance, a grand anniversary production set for June 27–28, 2026 at CenterStage, SM Seaside City Cebu.

This Sinulog season, SM Seaside City Cebu (Official) invites everyone to celebrate bigger, brighter, and bolder with AweSM Cebu 2026, a month-long lineup of festivities designed to let mallgoers max out their Sinulog experiences. Starting January 8, the city’s iconic seaside destination transforms into a vibrant hub where tradition, creativity, and today’s kind of celebration come together.

About the AweSM Cebu Campaign

Launched in 2019, the AweSM Cebu campaign is SM’s signature celebration of Cebuano culture, creativity, and community, transforming malls into vibrant hubs of entertainment, local artistry, and family-friendly experiences every Sinulog season. Each year, the campaign combines shopping, culture, music, gastronomy, and innovative showcases, positioning SM Supermalls as the ultimate destination for both Cebuanos and visitors seeking immersive Sinulog festivities. Over the years, AweSM Cebu has become a city-wide tradition that brings the many colors, rhythms, and flavors of the festival together—allowing everyone to experience the spirit of Sinulog under one roof.

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.

 In recent weeks, Cebu has been buzzing with conversations about flooding and corruption in government projects. Many people are frustrated, seeing funds meant for infrastructure wasted while families continue to suffer during heavy rains. Amid the frustration, it was refreshing to see Slater Young, a Cebuano businessman and former PBB winner, step up and volunteer to cooperate with the city’s flood control initiatives. His development, Monterrazas de Cebu, was even identified as one of the contributors to flooding. Instead of denying the issue, Slater publicly offered to work with the government and experts to find solutions. That spirit of accountability and community cooperation is exactly what we need.

Living in a busy and congested city has its perks—everything is within reach, businesses thrive, and the streets are full of life. But when heavy rain comes, we are all reminded of one big problem: flooding.

For many of us, it’s become normal to wade through knee-deep water during the rainy season. Stagnant water also attracts mosquitoes, produces foul odors, and damages our roads. It doesn’t have to stay this way. With the right plan, we can fix our drainage system and make our community safer and healthier.

The Problem

Our current drainage system is old, undersized, and often clogged with waste. In a congested city, water has nowhere to go when the pipes and canals are blocked. This leads to flooding even after just a short downpour.

 The Solution: An Integrated Drainage Project

Here’s a plan we can propose for our barangay and city leaders:

1. Main Drainage Canals

Widening and rehabilitating primary canals to carry rainwater away faster. Covered concrete canals with manholes will make them safer and easier to maintain.

2. Street-Level Gutters and Pipes

Installing proper gutters and underground pipes (RCPs) in our streets, with catch basins that trap silt and garbage before it clogs the system.

3. Household Connections

Allowing homes to connect properly to the drainage system (with filters or grease traps) so wastewater doesn’t cause pollution.

4. Pumping Stations

In low-lying flood-prone areas, sump pits with pumps can push excess water into bigger canals or rivers.

5. Green Solutions

Encouraging households to use rainwater tanks and adopting pocket gardens, permeable pavements, and bioswales to absorb water instead of letting it flood our streets.

🛠️ How It Can Be Done

• Survey & Mapping: Identify flood-prone zones and existing clogged drains.

• Engineering Study: Compute water flow during heavy rains to size the pipes and canals properly.

• Construction Phase: Build main drains first, then connect smaller ones.

• Maintenance: Regular declogging and a barangay-led clean-up program.

 Cost and Community Role

A drainage project is a big investment, but it’s worth it. A small street network (1 km) may cost around ₱15M–₱20M, while a larger community system could reach ₱100M or more.

But no matter how well it’s built, a drainage system will only work if we, the community, do our part. That means:

• Not throwing trash in the canals.

• Helping in clean-up drives.

• Reporting clogged drains early.

Urban Drainage Project Plan for a Congested City Area

1. Project Title

Integrated Drainage and Flood Control System for [Your City Area]

2. Objectives

• Reduce flooding in congested streets and residential areas.

• Improve public health by preventing stagnant water (mosquito breeding, foul odor).

• Ensure long-term sustainability through low-maintenance and resilient design.

3. Project Components

🔹 A. Primary Drainage Lines (Main Canals)

• Construct or rehabilitate concrete-lined drainage canals along main roads.

• Dimensions: 1.5–2.0 meters wide, 1.5 meters deep (adjust depending on area size & runoff volume).

• Cover canals with reinforced concrete slabs with manholes every 20–30 meters for maintenance.

🔹 B. Secondary Drainage (Street-Level Gutters & Pipes)

• Install U-shaped roadside gutters (30–40 cm wide).

• Connect to underground reinforced concrete pipes (RCP), minimum 600mm diameter.

• Provide catch basins (silt traps) at street corners to prevent clogging.

🔹 C. Tertiary Drainage (Household Connections)

• Allow households and small businesses to connect their wastewater outlets to secondary drains (with grease traps/septic compliance to prevent clogging and pollution).

🔹 D. Pumping & Outfall System

• Since the area is congested, natural slope might be limited.

• Install sump pits with submersible pumps in flood-prone low-lying sections.

• Direct water to larger canals, rivers, or stormwater retention ponds.

🔹 E. Rainwater Harvesting & Green Solutions

• Encourage rainwater tanks at household level to reduce runoff load.

• Integrate pocket parks, bioswales, or permeable pavements in open areas to allow water infiltration.

4. Materials & Construction Methods

• Reinforced Concrete Pipes (RCPs) – for underground drainage lines.

• Precast box culverts – for large-volume main canals.

• Catch basins with silt traps – to filter solid waste.

• Manholes with steel covers – for access & maintenance.

• Non-return flap gates – at outfalls to prevent backflow from rivers.

5. Implementation Phases

1. Survey & Mapping

   • Identify flood-prone zones, natural water pathways, and existing clogged drains.

2. Design & Engineering Study

   • Compute peak stormwater flow (based on rainfall intensity).

   • Size the pipes and canals accordingly.

3. Community Relocation (if needed)

   • Work with LGU for easement clearing in extremely narrow streets.

4. Construction Phase

   • Begin with primary drains, then connect secondary and tertiary lines.

5. Maintenance Program

   • Quarterly declogging and desilting.

   • Community awareness campaign (no basura in drainage).

6. Estimated Costs (very rough guide for barangay-level project)

• Small street network (1 km of drainage): ₱15M–₱20M

• Larger community (5–10 km network): ₱80M–₱150M
  (Exact cost depends on land conditions, pipe sizes, excavation difficulty, and congestion.)

7. Community Involvement

• Barangay-led clean & maintain program.

• Households required to segregate waste to prevent canal clogging.

• Awareness drive: “Drainage is not basurahan.”

Flooding doesn’t just make us uncomfortable—it affects our health, our livelihood, and our safety. With a well-designed drainage project and the cooperation of everyone, our community can finally say goodbye to knee-deep floods every rainy season.

Like what we’ve seen with Slater Young’s openness to cooperate, it’s clear that solving flooding requires both accountability and teamwork—from the government, private sector, and ordinary citizens. Let’s bring this plan to our barangay and city council. Together, we can build a cleaner, safer, and flood-free Cebu.

Hey, fellow moms and Cebuano families! I just had to share this with you—Mandani Bay Boardwalk is now open and wow, it’s officially our new favorite weekend hangout! 

As a mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for places where my kids can run around freely, where we can breathe fresh air, and just enjoy each other’s company outside the house. Well, this spot ticks all the boxes! Located right along the beautiful Mactan Channel, the Mandani Bay Boardwalk isn’t just about stunning sunsets—it’s quickly becoming one of the best lifestyle spots for families in Cebu.

So let me share with you some fun, budget-friendly ways you and your kids can enjoy this beautiful new destination

Picnic by the Bay

We packed some homemade snacks, brought a comfy mat, and picked a cozy spot with a view of the sea. The breeze? So relaxing! The kids loved it, and I finally had some quiet time to sip my coffee while they munched and played.

💡 Mom tip: Go early morning or late afternoon—it’s cooler, less crowded, and the lighting is perfect for those quick family snaps.

photo credit: The Cebuano FB page

photo credit: The Cebuano FB page

Check Out Weekend Events

I heard they’ll be hosting weekend events soon—like open-air markets, acoustic nights, and cultural shows. Sounds like the perfect opportunity to enjoy something different without breaking the bank.

🎉 Bonus: Most events are free! And it's also a great way to support local businesses.

Sunset Walks = Core Memory Moments

I didn’t expect it, but our walk along the boardwalk turned out to be one of my favorite parts. The kids were calm (surprisingly 😂), and we watched the sky turn pink and orange while chatting about their week. So simple, but so special.

📸 Tip: Take photos! These moments are the ones we’ll want to look back on.

Space to Run and Be Kids

No playground? No problem! My kids were just happy to be in an open space where they could run, chase each other, and play with bubbles. Sometimes, the best playtime is the unstructured kind.

Bring a ball, kite, or just let them loose—it’s such a safe and open place.

Waterfront Eats

There are a few cafés and food stalls opening up, and I’m already eyeing one for our next visit. Whether it’s a cool drink or an early dinner by the bay, it’s a great way to wind down.

🍨 Kid-approved idea: End the day with halo-halo or ice cream. Trust me, it’ll be the cherry on top of a perfect day.

A Mini Nature Lesson

Since we were by the water, I used the chance to talk to my kids about ocean life, keeping our seas clean, and being responsible with our trash. We even brought a small eco bag to pick up any litter we saw. 💚

So Why Should You Visit?

Because it’s not just pretty—it’s practical for moms like us. It's a free, refreshing place in the city that feels like an escape. It encourages movement, real conversations, and good old-fashioned quality time.

In a world full of gadgets and rush, places like Mandani Bay Boardwalk are a breath of fresh air—literally and emotionally.

Whether it’s for a simple weekend outing, a mini celebration, or just to get your kids away from screens for a while—Mandani Bay Boardwalk is a must-visit.

It reminded me that joy doesn’t have to cost a lot. Sometimes, all you need is your family, a little sea breeze, and time well spent.

Have you been to Mandani Bay yet? If yes, share your experience with me—I’d love to know your favorite part!  And if not yet, maybe this weekend is the perfect time.

Hello, beautiful moms and inspiring women!

If you’ve been longing for a moment to just breathe, slow down, and pour back into yourself, I have something special to share. This October 17–19, 2025, the WSL Movement is bringing to Cebu an experience like no other—Soulscape 2025—happening at the breathtaking Soul Sierra in Babag, Cebu City.

Derived from the words “soul” and “escape”, Soulscape is exactly that—a soulful getaway to help you release burdens, embrace self-acceptance, and reconnect with optimism. It’s three days of pure nourishment for your heart, mind, and body.

A Movement for Healing and Creativity

At the heart of Soulscape is a powerful fusion of mindfulness, creativity, and advocacy. This vision came to life during an August 13 media press conference, with the event spearheaded by:

• Charlita Maitland Smith – Executive Producer & Soul Sierra owner

• Anne Angus – Line Producer, psychiatric nurse, and mental health advocate

• Joselo Cimafranca – WSL Movement Founder & Co-Producer

• Mae Anne Yee – Event Organizer

They’re creating a space where you can truly feel safe, inspired, and seen.

When Sadness Lingers – A Film with a Message

Filmed entirely in Cebu and starring award-winning actors Nonie Buencamino and Sylvia Sanchez, When Sadness Lingers tells a moving story about a family navigating the hidden struggles of mental health, love, and healing.

“This story will delve into the complexities of mental health—raising awareness and, we hope, helping people discover healthier ways to cope,” said Angus, whose years as a psychiatric nurse have shaped her advocacy. “Mental health remains a difficult topic, one many choose to avoid. It’s time to end the stigma—and we’re doing it through the transformative power of film.”

Why This is Perfect for Us Moms

We carry so much—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Soulscape offers a chance to step away from the demands of everyday life and simply be. Surrounded by nature, supported by community, and inspired by art, it’s the kind of experience that can refill your soul’s cup.

And let me tell you, Soul Sierra is magical. Nestled in the lush mountains of Cebu City, this botanical haven has gardens, a healing shala, camping spaces, and views that will make you forget your phone for a while. As Charlita Maitland Smith herself said, she embraced the WSL Movement immediately, believing in the deep value of nurturing one’s well-being—and she knew Soul Sierra was the perfect place to make that vision real.

Let’s Go Together!

Mark your calendars: October 17–19, 2025.
📍 Soul Sierra, Babag, Cebu City

For tickets and inquiries:
📱 0977-325-3916
📧 joselocimafranca@gmail.com or wsladvocates@gmail.com
🔗 Visit the WSL Movement Facebook page for updates.

Moms, this is more than just an event—it’s an invitation to heal, grow, and reconnect with who you are beyond all your roles. Bring a friend, or make new ones there. Let’s take this soulful escape together. 💖