A Day at Simala Shrine: A Spiritual Pause in the Middle of Life’s Chaos

Life gets loud sometimes. There are weeks when everything feels like a blur—deadlines, worries, and the constant pressure to keep going. That’s probably why my visit to Simala Shrine felt so different. It wasn’t just a trip; it was a pause—a deep breath for the soul.

I’d always heard about Simala Church in Sibonga, Cebu. Some call it miraculous, others describe it as majestic. But honestly, nothing quite prepares you for how it feels when you finally see it in person.

The first thing that caught my eye was the castle-like structure sitting peacefully atop a hill, surrounded by lush green. It looked like something out of a storybook. The architecture itself already pulls you into a sense of reverence. But the real beauty lies in the quiet moments you spend there.

I walked around slowly—no rush. Inside, people were praying, lighting candles, and writing down their petitions. The walls were lined with testimonies—letters of healing, passed board exams, restored relationships. You can’t help but feel something stir in your chest. Hope? Maybe. Gratitude? Definitely.

I said a little prayer, not just for myself but for everyone I love. Sometimes, that’s all you can do. And in a place like Simala, that simple act feels powerful.

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📍 How to Get to Simala Shrine, Sibonga, Cebu

If you're coming from Cebu City, here's how to reach Simala:

1. By Bus

   • Go to South Bus Terminal

   • Ride a bus bound for Bato via Oslob

   • Tell the conductor you’re getting off at Simala Church or Lindogon, Sibonga

   • Fare: Around ₱100–₱130

   • Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours

   • From the highway, you can ride a habal-habal (motorbike) to the shrine (₱20–₱40)

2. By Private Car

   • Use Google Maps or Waze

   • Search “Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, Sibonga”

   • There's parking near the church, but it can get full especially on weekends or holy days

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🙏 Planning Your Visit

• Dress modestly – long pants/skirts and covered shoulders are encouraged

• Bring a candle – or choose one there. Each color has a symbolic meaning for different prayers

• Go early – weekdays are quieter and give you space to reflect

• Stay hydrated – and bring a fan or umbrella, especially during hot days

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🎥 Watch My Simala Shrine Experience

If you're curious or planning your own trip, feel free to watch and journey with me here:

📌 Watch my YouTube Video Here – My Simala Shrine Visit

Don’t forget to like, comment, or share your own experience if you’ve been there too!

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I didn’t expect much from this trip, to be honest. But I came home with a quiet heart and a strange sense of peace. And in this crazy, fast-paced world, that’s a blessing in itself.

If you ever find yourself needing a reset, go visit Simala. Let your spirit breathe. 🌿

A Special Day to Remember: Xyza Brielle's Baptism — February 12, 2025

This blog post is definitely a little late—life’s been pretty hectic lately, and I’ve been swamped with work and everything else in between. But I didn’t want to let more time pass without sharing something truly special: my niece’s baptism, which took place last February 12, 2025.

It was a beautiful day filled with love, faith, and family. Watching this little one be welcomed into the Christian faith was such a heartfelt moment for all of us. From the ceremony to the soft giggles and the warm embraces, everything felt just right—like a gentle reminder of grace and new beginnings.

I put together a short video to capture the memories and share the joy of that day. It’s simple, but made with love. 

👉 Watch it HERE!

I hope you feel the same warmth and joy we all felt that day. Welcome to the faith, little one—your journey is just beginning, and you are so loved. 💧🤍

💸 SeaBank Credit: What You Need to Know Before You Apply

 

SeaBank has been one of the rising digital banks in the Philippines, offering simple and accessible financial services right from your mobile phone. Recently, they introduced a new feature called SeaBank Credit—a credit line you can tap into anytime you need extra funds. But what exactly is it, and is it worth trying?

Let’s dive into everything you need to know!

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📲 What is SeaBank Credit?

SeaBank Credit is a revolving credit line that’s available to selected users inside the SeaBank app. Instead of applying for a traditional loan, you’re given a pre-approved amount that you can access whenever needed. It’s like having a digital credit card, but simpler and often faster to use.

Once activated, you can borrow from your credit line, transfer it to your SeaBank wallet, and repay it based on your schedule and the app’s terms.

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🚀 Why SeaBank Credit Is a Big Deal

• Convenience: Apply and access funds without visiting a bank.

• Speed: Some users report approvals within minutes.

• No Heavy Requirements: Most of the time, you only need your verified SeaBank account.

• Flexible Repayments: Pay based on what you use, not the full limit.

💸 Why Online Loan Apps (OLAs) Are Taking Off in the Philippines

In recent years, Online Loan Apps—or OLAs—have become incredibly popular across the Philippines. From students to small business owners, more Filipinos are turning to these digital lending platforms for fast, convenient financial solutions. But what exactly makes OLAs so appealing?

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📲 What Are Online Loan Apps?

OLAs are mobile or web-based platforms that allow users to apply for loans without having to go through the long, traditional bank processes. They usually require only a valid ID, mobile number, and a few minutes of your time.

🎥 Watch: My Video of Maya Personal Cash Loan

If you’re curious how one of these apps works in real life, I created a YouTube video where I share my experience using Maya’s Cash Loan feature—what the process was like, how much I borrowed, and my honest thoughts.

👉 Watch it here:

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🚀 Why Filipinos Love Online Loan Apps

Here are a few reasons why OLAs are trending in the Philippines:

✅ 1. Quick and Easy Process

Most apps offer loan approvals in as fast as 5–15 minutes. No long lines, no paperwork, and no need to visit a bank.

📱 2. Everything Is Done Online

All you need is your smartphone. Applications, approvals, disbursements, and repayments are all handled digitally.

🧾 3. Flexible Requirements

Unlike banks, OLAs don’t usually ask for payslips or high credit scores. This makes them more accessible, especially for freelancers and small business owners.

🔒 4. User-Friendly Apps

With clean interfaces and Taglish instructions, these apps are designed for all types of users—even those not tech-savvy.

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💡 Popular OLAs in the Philippines

Some well-known apps include:

• Maya Credit

• GCash GLoan

• Tala

• Cash-Express

• JuanHand

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📝 Final Thoughts

OLAs have made borrowing money more accessible for Filipinos—but as with any financial product, it’s important to borrow responsibly and always read the fine print.

Have you tried an online loan app before? Share your experience in the comments!

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What No One Tells You About Being a Freelancer in Pajamas

10 Things They Don’t Tell You About Working From Home and Being a Freelancer

The Remote Work Dream... and Reality

Working from home and freelancing full-time sounds like the dream, right? No commute, more freedom, and maybe even working from a beach in Cebu or a cozy café in Copenhagen. And honestly? A lot of it is amazing. But there’s a side no one talks about on LinkedIn — the weird, wonderful, and sometimes frustrating truths that come with this lifestyle.

After years of balancing client calls, strategy decks, coffee refills, and the occasional existential crisis from various corners of the world, here are the 10 things nobody really warns you about.

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1. Your Wi-Fi Speed Becomes a Core Personality Trait

SEO keyword: remote work setup, Wi-Fi for freelancers

Once you go remote, your relationship with internet speed hits a new level of intensity. You’ll learn to test download/upload like your life depends on it — because sometimes, it does. Especially when your client in London is waiting on a video call and your router decides to take a nap.

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2. You’re the Boss — And Also the IT Guy, Janitor, and HR

SEO keyword: freelance business tips, solopreneur struggles

You have full autonomy, but that means you’re also in charge of everything. Client onboarding, invoice chasing, email management, snack runs, printer errors — it’s all you. Empowering? Absolutely. Exhausting? Sometimes.

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3. Productivity Isn’t a Straight Line (It’s a Rollercoaster)

SEO keyword: productivity tips for freelancers, work from home motivation

One day, you’re in the zone knocking out projects like a machine. The next, you're reorganizing your Google Drive folders and watching videos about productivity... instead of being productive. The key? Learn your natural rhythm and build systems that work with your energy, not against it.

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4. People Think You’re Always Free Because You're Home

SEO keyword: work from home boundaries, remote work misconceptions

Friends and family assume "home" equals "available." You’ll get texts like, “Can you help me move a couch at 2PM?” or “Since you’re not doing anything…” Setting clear boundaries (and sometimes just turning your phone off) is essential.

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5. The Line Between Work and Life Gets Real Blurry

SEO keyword: work-life balance for freelancers, remote burnout

You’ll promise yourself you won’t check emails after dinner — and then find yourself replying at midnight. Working from home means your office is always right there. Create physical and mental separation, even if it’s just a different chair.

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6. Isolation Sneaks Up on You (Even If You’re an Introvert)

SEO keyword: freelancer mental health, remote work loneliness

No coworkers to chat with. No spontaneous coffee breaks. It’s peaceful... until it’s not. Virtual coworking, regular check-ins with fellow freelancers, or even working from a co-working space can make a huge difference.

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7. Clients Are Like Dating: There’s Ghosting, Chemistry, and Red Flags

SEO keyword: client communication tips, managing freelance clients

Every new client is a mini relationship. Some are dreamy. Some ghost you after the first project. And others? Red flags everywhere. Learn to trust your gut, set boundaries early, and always get things in writing.

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8. Your Calendar Becomes Your Lifeline

SEO keyword: time management for freelancers, freelance productivity tools

You’ll start scheduling everything: deep work blocks, walks, client calls, lunch, and even “do nothing” time. Without structure, the day runs you. With it, you run the day.

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9. You Redefine Success (And That’s a Good Thing)

SEO keyword: freelance career path, defining success as a freelancer

Success might not look like a 9-to-5 title or a corner office. It could be a client you believe in, a four-day workweek, or working remotely while spending time with your kids. Freelancing helps you design your own version of fulfillment.

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10. You Wouldn’t Trade It — But You're Still Figuring It Out

SEO keyword: freelancer journey, remote lifestyle challenges

Despite the chaos, the freedom is unmatched. You’re constantly learning, adjusting, growing — and that’s part of the magic. The freelance life isn’t always picture-perfect, but it’s real, and it's yours.

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Final Thoughts: Welcome to the Club

Working from home as a freelancer isn’t just a job shift — it’s a mindset shift. One where you wear many hats, make your own rules, and learn a lot (often the hard way). It’s not for everyone, but if you’re here for the journey, it can be incredibly rewarding.

👉 Over to you: What’s one thing you wish someone had told you before going remote or freelance? Drop it in the comments or share this with a friend who’s just getting started.

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Top 10 ESL Companies in the Philippines Hiring Online English Teachers in 2025

Are you a Filipino looking to teach English online in 2025? The demand for English teachers remains strong, especially in the Philippines, where many ESL companies actively hire local tutors. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just getting started, here are the top 10 ESL companies to consider this year:

❗️Please note that these pay rates are approximate and can vary based on various factors such as experience, teaching hours, and additional bonuses. Always check the company’s official website for the most current and detailed information.

1. Preply

Preply is a global tutoring platform that connects English teachers with students from all over the world. Filipino tutors appreciate its flexible schedule, competitive rates, and the ability to set your own prices. Whether you're focusing on conversation, business English, or test prep, Preply allows you to tailor lessons to your students' goals.

Pay Rate: $10 – $25 per hour (depends on your experience, ratings, and the price you set for lessons)

2. EF Education First

EF is a well-established name in the ESL world. They offer online English classes to both children and adults in Asia. Filipino teachers are often hired for their strong communication skills and cultural compatibility with Asian students. EF provides structured lesson plans and a steady stream of students.

Pay Rate: $14 – $20 per hour (depending on experience and position)

3. Cambly & Cambly Kids

Cambly is popular for its casual conversation-style teaching. You get paid per minute, and there’s no need to prepare formal lesson plans. Cambly Kids is its version for younger learners. These platforms are great for teachers who prefer a laid-back, flexible setup and want to work with students across different time zones.

Pay Rate: $10 – $12 per hour (Cambly pays per minute, roughly $0.17 – $0.20 per minute)

4. iTalki

iTalki gives you complete control: set your own rates, choose your schedule, and decide what you want to teach. Filipino teachers can offer conversational classes, grammar lessons, or even help with test preparation. It's a good option for freelancers looking for flexibility and independence.

Pay Rate: $10 – $30 per hour (depends on your experience and the rates you set)

5. SkimaTalk

This platform focuses on one-on-one lessons with adult learners. SkimaTalk is known for being beginner-friendly for new tutors. If you're just starting your ESL journey, this might be a great entry point.

Pay Rate: $8 – $12 per hour 

6. Engoo

Engoo is one of the most popular ESL companies among Filipino teachers. Based in Japan, Engoo offers consistent bookings, round-the-clock student demand, and pre-made lesson materials. It’s ideal for those who want structure without the hassle of creating lessons.

Pay Rate: $5 – $10 per hour (Engoo offers bonuses based on performance)

7. Lingoda

Lingoda is a Europe-based platform offering English classes for individuals and small groups. They cater to adult learners in Europe and South America. If you're comfortable teaching adults and working European hours, this can be a lucrative choice.

Pay Rate: $15 – $30

8. Open English

A well-known ESL company in Latin America, Open English hires Filipino tutors to teach both kids and adults. It’s an excellent platform if you’re interested in working with Spanish-speaking students.

Pay Rate: $12 – $18 per hour

9. Fluentbe

Fluentbe connects teachers with students in Europe. Their system includes group and private lessons, with provided lesson materials. It’s a great platform for teachers who enjoy more interaction and a classroom-like feel.

Pay Rate: $12 – $15 per hour 

10. Lyngo

Lyngo is another Japanese company that offers structured lessons to learners of all ages. They hire both native and non-native speakers and provide good training for new teachers.

Pay Rate: $8 – $12 per hour

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Final Thoughts

The ESL industry continues to offer incredible opportunities for Filipino teachers in 2025. Whether you're looking for flexibility, structure, or a particular student demographic, one of these companies is bound to be the right fit. Make sure to research each platform’s pay structure, requirements, and class formats to find what works best for your lifestyle and teaching style.

Ready to start your ESL journey? Let 2025 be the year you thrive in the online English teaching world!

📢 Want more tips and insights on teaching English online? Check out my YouTube channel Life's A Charm for more resources!

Work From Home: A Dream or a Disaster? ☕💻

Ah, working from home—the ultimate freedom fantasy! No more morning traffic, no more office drama, and best of all, no more pants (hello, comfy pajamas!). It sounds like a dream, right? Well, not so fast. While the WFH life comes with some serious perks—like rolling out of bed and into a Zoom call—it’s not for everyone. And if you’re thinking about diving in, you’d better have a Plan B, because let’s be real: this gig isn't always as stable as that 9-to-5 corporate job.

Not Everyone is Built for the WFH Life 🚀

Sure, working from home sounds fun until you realize your fridge is five steps away and suddenly, you're having lunch at 10 AM. Or maybe your "office" is also your living room, where your pet thinks your keyboard is their new napping spot. Distractions are everywhere, and without serious self-discipline, it’s easy to go from "I'll take a quick break" to binge-watching an entire Netflix series. Plus, some people genuinely thrive in an office environment, feeding off the energy of their coworkers. If you’re someone who needs constant human interaction or struggles with self-motivation, WFH might not be your best bet.

Job Security? Think Again. 🤷‍♂️

Unlike traditional corporate jobs, which often come with benefits, paid leave, and a steady paycheck, remote work—especially for freelancers and contract workers—can be as unpredictable as WiFi during a storm. One month, you're swimming in projects; the next, you're refreshing your inbox like it's a slot machine. Companies can cut budgets, projects can get canceled, and suddenly, you're left wondering if your skills can pay the bills. This is why having a backup plan (or multiple income streams!) is non-negotiable.

Final Thoughts: Love It or Leave It? 🎭

The truth is, working from home is a lifestyle, not just a job. It takes discipline, adaptability, and a little bit of luck. Some people thrive in this setup, loving the flexibility and independence, while others find themselves missing the structure of a traditional workplace. If you’re thinking about making the leap, make sure you’re prepared—mentally, financially, and with a solid backup plan. Otherwise, you might find yourself wishing for that old office desk (and maybe even the office coffee machine).

So, is WFH the dream life or a recipe for disaster? That depends on you. But hey, at least you don’t have to wear pants, right? 😆👖