Philippines News

AFTER performing quite strongly in May, Philippine manufacturers reported only a slight rise in output in June 2023 amid a softer expansion in new orders, according to S&P Global Philippines.

The headline S&P Global Philippines Manufacturing PMI reading for June 2023 registered 50.9, still above the no-change 50.0 mark for 17 successive months now. However, this is down from 52.2 in May, signaling the weakest improvement in the health of the sector since July 2022.

The PMI or Purchasing Managers’ Index is an index of the prevailing direction of economic trends in the manufacturing and service sectors. It consists of a diffusion index that summarizes whether market conditions, as viewed by purchasing managers, are expanding, staying the same, or contracting.

S&P Global in a new report said overall manufacturing growth in June was supported by continued expansion in production and factory orders. However, the rates of increase for both orders eased from May amid reports of weaker underlying demand trends.

The report observed that manufacturing output growth in June was only fractional and marked the weakest pace in upturn since the current uninterrupted run of expansion began in September 2022.

In addition, new orders received by goods producers across the Philippines also rose at a softer pace in June, the expansion driven by additional demand and new clients.

Foreign demand

Similarly, foreign demand for Filipino manufacturers goods also expanded last month. The continued expansion in order book volumes encouraged manufacturing firms to raise their buying activity for the 10th successive month in June.

Moreover, the rate at which input purchasing grew was the quickest seen in four months.

However, manufacturers registered a fresh fall in employment in reaction to a slower rise in output following a period of job creation in May.

“According to surveyed businesses, the renewed reduction in manufacturing employment was in part due to the non-replacement of voluntary leavers as well as some firms actively reducing their payroll numbers,” the report said.

Meantime, June data indicated a renewed lengthening of delivery times for inputs, although the deterioration in supplier performance was fractional overall. The slowdown comes after vendor performance improved last May, the first time it had done so since July 2019.

Price pressures dwindled in the latest survey period, as the rate of input price inflation slowed notably to the weakest recorded since October 2020. In turn, firms raised their average selling prices at the softest pace in just over two-and-a-half years.

Finally, manufacturing companies across the Philippines remained upbeat that production would rise over the coming months on the back of greater new sales. But despite rising to a five-month high, the level of positive sentiment was weaker than the series trend, noted the report.

“Going forward, the sector remains optimistic of growth in the coming 12 months. However, global headwinds could dampen the outlook for manufacturers in the Philippines,” it added. (PHILEXPORT)

Despite leaving the Sinulog Foundation and the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC), Ricky Ballesteros never stopped working for Sinulog and Cebu sports.

For most, Ricky was the face of the Sinulog, transforming the annual celebration into the world-class event it is now with his myriad of ideas, but for me, Ricky was that rare sportsman who strengthened the bond of the local sports community.

He was just starting at the CCSC, when I started writing for SunStar Cebu over two decades ago, and I’d regularly stop by his office. He’d never fail to give me tips and story ideas and later, when we got to know each other well, he’d give me tips on what the other writers were doing.

One time, while we were talking in his office, I noticed a document on his desk. It was upside down from my perspective, but I knew it was the financial report of the CCSC’s monthly earnings and I immediately knew the news value of such.

So I grabbed it and told him, “This will make a good story.”

It did and there was no attempt from him to hide it nor did he ask that I omit certain portions as some would. When the story broke out the next day, to the chagrin of the other reporters who got scooped, I sent him a message to thank him.

Most Palarong Pambansa venues are mothballed after the event but not the CCSC and I think it is no coincidence that it became the hub for the local sports community in Cebu. I’m not talking about the CCSC hosting tournaments for various events, I’m talking about it becoming the go-to venue for those who want to jog, practice martial arts, dance or what-have-you.

“Nananghid na ming Ricky,” is the usual reply whenever a new group props up at the CCSC.

There was a time when Ricky earned the ire of the football community when he banned the regular 4 p.m. matches at the “D” of the oval because some runners complained about getting hit.

He stood his ground and eventually, the Abellana boys grudgingly accepted his decision, which, looking back, was the financially sound one. The guys playing football enter the CCSC for free, while the joggers pay their way.

Ricky also changed the way events like the Milo Marathon and Little Olympics were done that I think other hosts began looking at Cebu for ideas. I think it is because of Ricky that Milo decided to hold a national version of their regional Olympics, making Cebu the first host.

During one opening ceremony that evoked scenes of the Summer Olympics, yes that Olympics, I overheard the next host saying, “Dili namo na kaya.”

I was looking forward to the resumption of the Milo Olympics to see Ricky’s innovations post-pandemic. But I guess, it wasn’t meant to be.

Late Saturday afternoon, I was shocked to read a tribute of him written by his niece. That couldn’t be true as I just read something from his account hours earlier. But later, multiple sources confirmed the news. Ricky collapsed in a mall and died in the hospital.

He was 57. So young, he still would have had decades of helping both the Sinulog and Cebu sports — his twin passions. I guess, it’s up to those who support both to continue his legacy by doing what Ricky did best.

Boosting Cebu culture and Cebu sports.

Rest well, Ricky Ballesteros.

KAI Sotto did not play a single second in Orlando Magic’s first game in the National Basketball Association (NBA) Summer League on Sunday, July 9, 2023, much to the dismay of Filipino basketball fans.

The 7-foot-3 Filipino was listed as Did Not Play-Coach’s Decision in the Magic’s 89-79 loss to the Detroit Pistons at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

Orlando only used 10 players, including Anthony Black and Jett Howard, the Nos. 6 and 11 picks in this year’s NBA Draft.

Detroit’s twin towers Jalen Duren and James Wiseman led the Pistons with 17 and 16 points, respectively.

Wiseman, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, also collected a game-high 11 rebounds.

Kevon Harris had 21 points from 8-of-13 shooting, while Black finished with 17 points, five rebounds, five assists and three steals for the Magic. (RSC)

FORMER ALA Boy Jess Rhey Waminal is in for another tough fight as he challenges undefeated Thai Thattana Luangphon for the World Boxing Council (WBC) Asia super bantamweight belt on July 29, 2023 at the Suamlum Night Bazaar in Ratchadaphisek, Thailand.

After a five-fight losing slump, the 28-year-old Waminal is back in form with two straight victories this year. He opened up 2023 with a majority-decision win over promising prospect Jhunrille Castino in Bohol. Waminal followed up that win with a sixth-round technical knockout of experienced Crison Omayao in Surigao del Norte.

Waminal is in for a very tough test against Luangphon.

The 26-year-old Luangphon is notorious for beating Filipino fighters. He has fought and beaten a total of nine Pinoy pugs -- Brian Lobetania, Jhon Gimeno, Jopher Marayan, Kevin Aseniero, Ken Jordan, Jelbirt Gomera, Jomar Fajardo, Alvin Medura and Matthew Arcillas. His last six fights were against Filipinos.

Luangphon is coming off a third-round stoppage of Waminal’s former teammate at the ALA Gym, Lobetania.

Luangphon is currently ranked No. 5 by the WBC in the super bantamweight division.

Waminal, a former amateur standout, is 16-8-1 with nine knockouts, while Luangphon is 21-0-1 with 15 knockouts. (EKA)

How is your ride?

The answers to this question color the daily struggles of the estimated 3.5 million commuters streaming in and out of Metro Cebu.

In the commuting lives of residents in Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu cities, jeepneys, or their modern alternatives, the bus-jeepneys (Beeps), hog the roads of their daily journeys.

Other vehicles for hire cater to specialized requirements. Taxis are for passengers who prefer their own company or have bulky parcels to transport. The fares are higher and considered only a necessity in an emergency by many wage-earners.

While the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is being installed, jeepneys still cling as kings of the roads in Metro Cebu.

The increasing ubiquity of Beeps remains a welcome sight, especially during the peak hours of commuting for school or work or when caught in a downpour and desperate to avoid flash floods and traffic jam.

These modernized versions of the colorful but often dilapidated or ill-maintained traditional jeepneys have been promoted as green alternatives, safer and kinder to the environment and to people.

With the capacity to accommodate more passengers without drastically raising the fare traditional jeepneys charge for the same distance covered, Beeps were welcomed as lifelines of modernization alleviating Cebu’s traffic woes when these first plied the routes in Cebu in 2019.

With traffic back to pre-pandemic normal, commuters tick off the benefits of Beeps as alternatives to inhaling traffic fumes or being sprayed by rain in open traditional jeepneys; squeezing past the forest of knees and legs of passengers seated near the entrance of traditional jeepneys; and paying the pricey fare of metered and smartphone-booked taxis, whose rates spike in the hours of a commuter’s greatest need.

Yet, the Beeps have also been transformed by ground realities in Metro Cebu, which has 3.5 million commuters competing for public transport that accounts only for 10 percent of road traffic, according to the Cebu City Transport Office in September 2022.

In the logic of the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program, traditional jeepneys will be replaced because these “vintage” vehicles contribute to almost half of airborne particulate matter, based on the 2018 study in Metro Manila conducted by the University of the Philippines National Center for Transportation Studies in Diliman.

Maintaining the performance and condition of the Beeps will be a challenge since it is observed frequently these days that passengers stand and crowd in the aisles. These occurrences take place even outside peak commuting hours.

Commuters may prefer to take a ride rather than wait for the next Beep. Beep drivers and conductors may take in extra passengers even though the PUV Modernization Program was projected to do away with the traditional jeepneys’ “boundary” system, which increased a driver’s take-home earnings by increasing trips and maximizing passengers.

Overcrowding in Beeps ironically reminds commuters of the illegal practice in the 1980s for traditional jeepney drivers or dispatchers to put wooden stools in the already limited aisles to fit two or more passengers, increasing people’s discomfort and risks of accidents.

Carrying more than the capacity of seated passengers may take its toll on the working conditions of Beeps. Often, Beep conductors pick up passengers along the route instead of only at designated bus stops. Due to this practice of picking up passengers like traditional jeepneys, the doors of the Beeps are kept open, overworking the air-conditioning unit.

Passengers in a standing-room Beep that is only minimally cooled by the air-conditioning unit can only fan themselves and think of the old days when a breeze freely wafted in and out of open traditional jeepneys.

Public transport in Cebu has yet to come up with a better commuters’ rating for the age-old question: “How is your ride?”

ABOITIZ Group has partnered with various government agencies to help create resilient, disaster-ready and climate-smart communities.

It recently held a five-day training to craft an enhanced and science-based Local Climate Change Action Plan (LCCAP) in Barangay Bato, Toledo City, Cebu, the host community of AboitizPower Corp. (AbotiziPower) subsidiary Therma Visayas Inc. (TVI).

Aside from AbotizPower-TVI, Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV), the AEV Sustainability Team and the Aboitiz Foundation also joined forces with the Climate Change Commission (CCC), the Toledo City Government, the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development for the training.

Toledo City Mayor Marjorie “Joie” Perales was grateful that the event was held in the city.

“I am very thankful to the Aboitiz Group and the Climate Change Commission for conducting this LCCAP training workshop in Toledo City,” said Perales. “This will upgrade the skills of our local responders and improve our readiness for disasters. I know that our people will truly benefit from this.”

Members of the Toledo City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, City Environment and Natural Resources, City Planning and Development Office, City Engineering Office, City Agriculture Office and Barangays Bato, Cabitoonan and Awihao participated in the planning sessions and learned how to develop their capabilities in climate change resilience.

Upskilling

The participants were equipped with knowledge based on methods and strategies to produce targeted and responsive climate action plans. They were also upskilled in developing risk-mitigating LCCAPs anchored on science and evidence-based analysis, which includes biodiversity and ecosystem-based adaptation interventions.

“We recognize that our communities and local governments are at the forefront of the climate crisis,” said CCC executive director Romell Antonio Cuenca.

“It is imperative for local government units (LGUs) to be prepared for the challenges of the changing climate. LGUs should invest more in crafting and planning appropriate measures to adapt to climate impacts. That is why CCC and Aboitiz came all the way here to Toledo to increase the technical capacity of our LGUs, so that they can develop their local climate change action plans, which will serve as their pathway to resiliency,” he added.

Ronaldo Ramos, president and chief operating officer of AboitizPower Thermal Group (VisMin), believes that this project could spark transformation in Toledo City and that it can be replicated in all the other communities where AboitizPower thermal assets operate.

“We believe that by bolstering Toledo City’s climate resilience and adaptation, we can ensure the continuity of our mission to energize Cebu and the Visayas, and, more importantly, secure a sustainable future for Toledo. We’re optimistic about the completion of their LCCAP this year,” said Ramos.

At the national level, the LCCAP training workshop aligns with certain tenets of the Philippine Development Plan, including establishing livable communities, strengthening social protection, and accelerating climate action and strengthening disaster resilience.

Sustainable development

Through this project, Aboitiz Group said it also supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on reducing inequalities (SDG 10), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), and Climate Action (SDG 13) at a global level.

“Our partnership serves as a catalyst for the ongoing development and seamless integration of our communities’ Local Climate Change Action Plans into their local government practices. This remarkable initiative not only propels the Aboitiz Group’s ESG goals forward but also resonates with our core purpose of Advancing Business and Communities,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, AEV first vice president and chief sustainability and reputation officer.

“This strong public-private partnership between Aboitiz and the Climate Change Commission is a culmination of over four years of collaboration. We wanted a program that was sustainable for all partners, and where the value of a science-based LCCAP benefitted our stakeholder communities beyond this year,” said Mirchelle Pinpin-de Guzman, assistant vice president for Corporate External Relations and Climate Smart Program lead at AEV.

“As for CCC, the program enables them to expand their Information Education Campaign reach through our business units’ operations in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao,” de Guzman added.

As the Aboitiz Group undergoes its great transformation to become the Philippines’ first Techglomerate, it said it is taking on challenges with a renewed entrepreneurial mindset, gaining recognition as a partner of choice for innovation and future-ready solutions.

In a world where traditional schooling has long been the norm, there are individuals who dare to challenge the status quo and pave the way for alternative educational approaches.

One such visionary is Maria Milagros “Mimi” Borbajo, a former preschool teacher here in Cebu and a former special education teacher in Dubai. After 10 years of teaching abroad, Mimi and her husband Marck decided to return to the Philippines with her then one-year-old baby in 2020, in the midst of the pandemic.

Back when she was teaching in Dubai, she had felt a certain lack and dissatisfaction about her “noble” profession. She grew tired of the same old ways of teaching and felt that children’s natural curiosity and learning through play need to be fully supported.

Desire

Mimi delved into research, particularly exploring Finland’s educational approach that trusts a child’s natural way of learning. Little did she know that her experiences and growing inquiries would ignite a passion within her to embark on a less-traveled educational path — one that would not only impact her professional life but also become a lifestyle as a mother.

Driven by her desire to create a meaningful difference for her own daughter, Mimi embarked on a journey of working with parents, mentoring them in embracing trust in their children’s abilities and nurturing their innate curiosity. She sought guidance from a trusted friend and life coach, participating in a masterclass on creating personalized programs.

During the masterclass, fate intervened as Mimi crossed paths with Sharon Cortez, the founder of Forest School Philippines. As Mimi absorbed Sharon’s passionate discourse on non-traditional learning approaches, she immediately felt a deep resonance with her own educational beliefs. The concept of a forest school, with its focus on hands-on experiences in nature, holistic development and child-led learning, captivated Mimi’s imagination.

Empowered with a shared vision, Mimi forged a partnership with Sharon, laying the groundwork for the establishment of Cebu’s first Forest School.

Experience

Mimi’s firsthand experience in conventional education made her acutely aware of its limitations and constraints. Her time as a special education teacher reinforced her understanding that each child possesses unique abilities and learns in their own way.

“What encouraged me more was witnessing my own daughter. That when I trust her innate desire for learning, everything follows. When she is interested in something, I don’t need to force her. I only need to support her to further her learning. Trust is also very important. Modesty aside, my daughter learned to hold a pen without me teaching her how to hold a pen. Instead, I gave her enough space to play, explore, and trusted her pace and readiness.”

Mimi is home educating and unschooling her daughter, providing her support through different resources that will support her child’s interests.

“I am not against schools and teachers by the way. I love my colleagues and the schools who gave me the opportunity to learn more about myself. I am grateful for them. I just believe that something more can be done for our educational system. Teachers play a big role. I know it can be challenging because sometimes or most of the time, teachers are left without a choice. But I believe that it takes a deeper understanding about how children learn for us to truly support them. We have a lot of passionate teachers. It is still a noble job, and they need our support.”

Mission

With her extensive experience and deep-rooted passion for education, Mimi embarked on a mission to introduce the Forest School philosophy to different families in Cebu. By courageously establishing the first Forest School in Cebu, Mimi seeks to provide a transformative educational experience that celebrates every child’s natural love for learning, fosters a love for nature, and equips children with essential life skills.

She launched Forest School Cebu in May 2021 in her husband’s private property, a farm and forested area, and they have been venturing into different outdoor green spaces where they can hold their sessions.

Mimi also launched Beach School Camp in October 2022 with a team of marine experts who are also aligned with her vision. Beach School Camp is an extended program of Forest School Cebu where they cover water geographies to support children’s curiosity in a beach setting. They do it two to three times a year.

Mimi has also been getting support from leading companies and organizations here in

Cebu like AboitizLand, McDonald’s, Baobao Babies Baby Shop and JCI Cebu Sinulog.

One of the key aspects of Forest School is the emphasis on fostering independence and providing ample space for children to explore. Forest School Cebu is an enrichment program, a holistic approach to learning that takes place in nature, where children take charge of their learning through play, exploration and risk taking. By allowing children to follow their interests, curiosity and risk taking, the program aims to raise resilient and independent individuals.

For Mimi Borbajo, Forest School is not just a profession; it is a calling, a lifestyle she can pass on to her daughter by embracing the non-traditional path of education, she aims to create a ripple effect that challenges the conventional norms and inspires others to think outside the box.

LOVE is supposed to be a beautiful and transformative experience. It has the power to heal wounds, mend broken hearts, and bring immense joy into our lives. But for some of us, the fear lingers in the back of our minds: will loving me be too difficult for someone?

This sentiment is not born out of self-pity or a lack of self-worth, but rather from a place of empathy and a genuine desire for harmonious relationships. It is an acknowledgment that we all come with our fair share of complexities, flaws, and baggage. We have scars that remind us of past experiences, insecurities that gnaw at our confidence, and vulnerabilities that make us question our worthiness of love.

When we say, “I hope that loving me isn’t the hardest thing anyone has to do,” we are not seeking perfection or asking for someone to fix us. Instead, we are expressing a yearning for understanding, patience, and acceptance from those who choose to embark on a journey of love with us. It is an appeal for compassion and a plea for kindness.

In a world that often glorifies effortless love stories and fairy-tale romances commonly seen on social media, it is important to remember that genuine relationships require work and dedication. They demand compromise, sacrifice, and a willingness to confront our own demons while supporting each other through the highs and lows of life. But when we fear that loving us may be an insurmountable task, it can be paralyzing, preventing us from fully embracing vulnerability and inhibiting the growth of a deep and meaningful connection.

This sentiment is not exclusive to those with visible scars or diagnosed conditions. It extends to all individuals who have ever felt different or struggled with self-acceptance. It encompasses those who have experienced heartbreak, trauma, or loss and carry the weight of their past experiences. It includes those who battle with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, as well as individuals who are still discovering their true selves.

To hope that loving oneself isn’t the hardest thing anyone has to do is to wish for a world where empathy reigns supreme. It is an aspiration for a society that values emotional well-being, where open conversations about mental health are encouraged, and where people can be embraced for who they are, imperfections and all. It is a call to action for individuals to cultivate self-love and self-acceptance, and for society to extend a compassionate hand to those who may be struggling.

Dare to challenge the notion that loving someone should be easy. Instead of seeking effortless love, embrace the transformative power of loving and being loved through the struggles and complexities of life. It is in those moments of difficulty that our capacity for empathy, growth, and connection is truly tested. So, let us embark on the journey of love with open hearts and open minds, willing to confront our own biases and preconceptions, and redefine what it means to love unconditionally. By doing so, we may discover that the reward lies not in avoiding challenges, but in embracing them wholeheartedly and growing together as individuals and as a society.

KNOWN for bringing in innovative and groundbreaking advanced beauty procedures, Pearl Medical Aesthetics + Laser has expanded its expertise and heightened its rejuvenating experience with the grand opening of its newest wing at MSY Towers on June 29, 2023.

This marks an incredible milestone for its sixth anniversary in revolutionizing the skin health and beauty industry.

The skin clinic boasts state-of-the-art treatment rooms that are tailored to individual clients and couples.

Dr. Shahana Pearl V. Uy-Ang, chief executive officer, is elated to share that the clinic’s success lies in the vision of offering minimally invasive procedures by acquiring the latest international technology which makes them a premier destination for medical aesthetics and cosmetic laser treatments in the region.

“Understanding the importance of skin health and the desire to maintain natural beauty, we are committed to finding the latest revolutionary technologies to help clients with their minimally invasive beauty treatments and achieve the confidence that they desire,” said Uy-Ang.

Being at the forefront of the aesthetics industry, the skin clinic introduced its two latest treatment technologies that clients can avail themselves of: the EMFACE and ONDA.

EMFACE is a needle-free facial treatment that diminishes the appearances of wrinkles and tightens and lifts the skin in only 20 minutes.

This treatment is the world’s only needle-free facial treatment and this skin clinic is the first to offer it in the Visayas and Mindanao.

The company also introduced its latest non-invasive body contouring machine called the ONDA, which targets fats, cellulite, and skin laxity, guaranteeing instant and long-lasting results.

Since 2017, Pearl Medical Aesthetics + Laser has offered a plethora of treatments and technologies such as the Pearl Thermage FLX Face & Eyes, Pearl Sofwave, Pearl Hollywood Lift, and the Pearl Morpheus 8 Pro.

Time to rejuvenate and get that youthful glow from within at Pearl Medical Aesthetics + Laser.

Visit the skin clinic at MSY Tower, 7th floor, Pescadores Road, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City.

DREAMING of the picture-perfect wedding by the beach? Club Serena Resort in Moalboal, Cebu is the perfect place to say, “I do.”

With its stunning location, all-inclusive wedding packages, and dedicated team of experts, Club Serena Resort promises to make your special day an unforgettable experience.

Club Serena recently participated in the Kasalan sa Kotilyon 2023 wedding showcase at Ayala Center Cebu last June 30 to July 2.

General manager Rafael John Bautista, in an interview, said Club Serena seeks to be the premier resort for intimate destination weddings.

“We want to provide the best service in the best destination for couples to hold their weddings,” said Bautista.

What sets Club Serena apart is its exquisite wedding packages. The resort offers a range of options to suit every couple’s desires and preferences.

From indoor to beach weddings, Club Serena can accommodate up to 100 guests, ensuring an intimate and memorable celebration.

The team

Behind the scenes, a team of dedicated professionals brings the wedding vision to life.

Jaymar Enriquez - Location stylist

Jaymar Enriquez, the mastermind behind Enriquez Embellishments, discovered his flair for decorating at an early age. With a background in Hotel and Restaurant Management, his journey as a stylist began during his college years.

After gaining experience through various hotel projects and collaborations with establishments, he has become a trusted name in the events styling industry.

Gianne Paolo Anciano - Photographer and Videographer

Gianne Paolo Anciano, the skilled photographer and videographer of GPA Art & Photography, has been capturing moments of beauty and significance from a young age.

As an official photographer for prestigious events like Man of the Philippines, Queen of Cebu and Miss Universe Cebu Candidates, he has a keen eye for capturing the essence of every occasion.

Anciano’s photography expertise ranges from fashion editorials and local pageants to showcasing hotels and restaurants.

John Espinoza - Hair and Makeup Artist

John Espinoza, a freelance Makeup Artist based in Cebu, believes in the transformative power of makeup.

He specializes in enhancing the beauty of individuals for special occasions such as weddings, prenup photo shoots, films and commercials.

With experience in working in international and local movies, commercial shoots, print ad campaigns and fashion shows, Espinoza has honed his skills and expanded his expertise to cover various domains of makeup artistry.

Unparalleled experience

Club Serena Resort aims to provide couples with an unparalleled wedding experience.

With its breathtaking venues, customizable packages, and a team of talented professionals, Club Serena Resort ensures that your special day will be truly unforgettable.

Say “I do” in paradise and let Club Serena Resort be the backdrop of your love story.

The forced evacuation came after authorities received reports that some residents had not moved to safer areas. 

The Western Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines reported last week that 48 boats believed to be part of the Chinese maritime militia were found around Iroquois Reef, also known as Del Pilar Reef, on June 30. 

New Zealand and the European Union's collaboration on research, science and innovation will mean greater access and opportunities for Kiwi researchers, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins and Minister of Research, Science and Innovation Ayesha Verrall announced.    

The Prime Minister and the EU President Ursula von der Ley

New Zealand and the European Union have overnight signed a ground-breaking Free Trade Agreement that will provide significant new trade access to our fourth-largest trading partner.

"The EU FTA will increase our exports to the EU by up to $1.8 billion per year by 2035," Chris Hipkins said.

"Tariff savings

Demand for new homes has dropped as families cannot afford increased mortgage costs, Halifax has said

House prices in the UK fell at the fastest annual rate seen in 12 years last month, Britain's major mortgage lender, Halifax, announced this week.

Prices for June dropped for the third month in a row by 2.6% ye

Demand for new homes has dropped as families cannot afford increased mortgage costs, Halifax has said

House prices in the UK fell at the fastest annual rate seen in 12 years last month, Britain's major mortgage lender, Halifax, announced this week.

Prices for June dropped for the third month in a row by 2.6% ye

Demand for new homes has dropped as families cannot afford increased mortgage costs, Halifax has said

House prices in the UK fell at the fastest annual rate seen in 12 years last month, Britain's major mortgage lender, Halifax, announced this week.

Prices for June dropped for the third month in a row by 2.6% ye

WITH the shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals in the country, an industry expert urged businesses to consider hiring and training women, students and veterans to help address the ongoing skills gap.

Alan Reyes, country manager of Fortinet Philippines, said tapping into these new talent pools will enhance the skills of companies’ current security teams to protect themselves from cyber threats.

“These are the underrepresented groups in the tech industry. Diversifying talents will help increase the number of qualified individuals to close the shortage,” he said.

According to the senior economic growth specialist of the United States Agency for International Development-Office of Economic Development Governance, John Avila, there are only around 200 cybersecurity professionals in the country.

Avila encouraged students and young professionals to look into the promising career in cybersecurity as this is a job that is in demand globally.

Reyes noted that understaffed security teams and a shortage of senior-level personnel make companies more vulnerable to breaches.

According to the Fortinet 2023 Global Cybersecurity Skills Gap report, 86 percent of information technology and cybersecurity decision-makers in the Philippines and Malaysia agreed that the skills shortage creates more cyber risks for their organizations, with over half admitting they struggle to recruit and retain qualified professionals for their security teams.

To address this, Reyes said companies can look to untapped communities, including women, veterans and students, and provide accessible cybersecurity training to those looking for a career change.

“By investing in these new talents, Filipino organizations can broaden their candidate pool and help build a stronger defense against cyber threats,” he said.

The (ISC)² 2022 Cybersecurity Workforce Study revealed that the Asia-Pacific region requires at least 2.2 million cybersecurity talents, leaving traditional candidates with cybersecurity degrees or relevant work experience unable to meet this demand alone.

“In the face of a severe skills shortage, retaining top talent is crucial for organizations in the Philippines. To achieve this, leaders must prioritize employee experience and job satisfaction by offering more opportunities for professional growth and skill development. One way to do this is by encouraging team members to take advantage of high-quality cybersecurity training and certification programs, such as those offered by the Fortinet Training Institute,” said Reyes.

The Network Security Expert program, with its self-paced and instructor-led training, provides eight levels of cybersecurity certification that cater to different skill levels.

“By investing in their employees’ growth, Filipino organizations can empower their team members to progress in their careers, while also providing a strong foundation for newcomers looking to build a career in the industry,” he said.

Moreover, to address the ongoing skills gap, colleges and universities are expanding their cybersecurity degree programs.

By partnering with these institutions, organizations can provide opportunities for students to acquire industry-recognized certifications even before graduation, ensuring a pipeline of qualified candidates to fill critical cybersecurity roles.

“The cybersecurity skills gap remains a significant challenge for organizations in the Philippines. However, by adopting innovative approaches such as investing in new talent, empowering current employees with professional growth opportunities, and partnering with educational institutions, Filipino organizations can address the skills shortage and build a vigorous defense against cyber threats,” said Reyes.

He added that doing all these will help companies ensure they are adequately equipped to face the more tech-related challenges and secure their critical digital assets.

DANAO City in northern Cebu is more than ready to accept local and foreign investments. It guarantees a huge market and public participation, and offers green initiatives, effective governance and business-friendly policies.

This was Mayor Thomas Mark “Mix” Durano’s assurance to players who want to invest and expand their business outside of Metro Cebu, during the Danao City Investment Forum at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel in Cebu City on Saturday, July 8, 2023.

In his speech, Durano said the forum was part of his administration’s thrust to make Danao City become “a model city of sustainable development in the Island of Cebu” for the next three years.

To achieve this, he unveiled four strategies: Economic Resiliency, Empowered Citizens, Eco-friendly/Livability, and the Effective and Efficient Governance.

“We need to be economic resilient, learning from the experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic... promote interactive good governance, being effective and efficient, and, lastly, purposefully promote and protect the environment,” he said.

The mayor pointed out that Danao City was identified as the next growth city in northern Cebu, based on the Metro Cebu Roadmap for Sustainable Urban Development of the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

To fast-track investments in the city, the local government unit activated the Danao City Investment and Promotions Center (DCIPC), Danao City Investment and Incentives Board (DCIIB) and Danao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCCI) last year.

Durano said these organizations will work together with the City Government by directly engaging and guiding the private sector and investors who want to expand in the city.

He said the City also aims to be more sustainable by prioritizing the environment.

He cited Danao City’s advantages, which include its huge market population, proximity to other municipalities that have an increasing population and accessibility to a port and terminal to Metro Cebu and other regions.

How to invest

DCIPC officer-in-charge Ramon “Red” Durano VI assured potential investors that in Danao City there will be no delays, as the DCIPC, DCIIB and DCCCI will be the designated platforms for them to inquire and collaborate with the City Government and industry leaders.

“If they want to see what it is like to invest in Danao, they can approach the chamber of commerce. If they want to know what Danao can offer, we have an investment and promotion center, and we have Danao City Investment and Incentives Board who makes the policies to make our city investment-attractive,” Durano VI told SunStar Cebu during the forum.

He said the City Government has also passed ordinances and resolutions that promote a more business-friendly policy to attract investors, including the Public-Private Partnership ordinance that sets the guidelines and the legal framework for the City to enter into contractual arrangements with the private sector.

He said they are also developing a platform to incentivize businesses and investors who will be venturing in the city.

He said they will hold more activities to further promote the city for potential investments.

Durano VI said the various educational scholarships and assistance programs offered by the City Government also guarantee a pool of talents in the city.

He is optimistic that they will be able to achieve the City’s goal of economic sustainable development.

Future projects

Danao City has 17 projects to boost the local economy, according to Ramon Gorre, officer in charge of the Danao City Planning and Development Office, during the forum.

One is the reconstruction of the Danao City Public Market, which was struck by fire in 2022. The new market, which will accommodate over 1,200 commercial stalls at affordable rates, is targeted for completion in 2024.

Chains of mini or satellite markets will be built in strategic locations across the city to bring goods and services closer to local households.

Gorre said land development has started for this project and will begin in Barangay Guinsay.

Another project is the construction of the Danao City Sports Complex, which will house an Olympic-sized swimming pool and an indoor basketball and volleyball court.

A Highland Leisure District is also being built that will house an 18-hole golf course.

He said the City is also building a three-story parking building in Barangay Poblacion that can cater to 350 cars and 300 motorcycles.

In addition, the project is open for partnership agreements and will offer commercial spaces and advertising boards that are available for lease to maximize potential revenue.

Gorre said the second phase of the Danao City Bulk Water Project will soon start.

The P30 million water supply project consists of a water dam that can hold about 25,000 cubic meters of surface water before flowing to the water treatment plant in Barangay Dinakot.

Gorre said the City Government also plans to add to its commercial and industrial sectors.

“With that, we are opening up and developing new commercial centers,” he said.

Gorre said the other projects lined up in the city are:

* A 400-hectare Industrial Zone;

* A 100-hectare Danao City Light Industrial Park Economic Zone Development;

* A circumferential road;

* A sea bus going from Danao to the cities of Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue;

* SM Prime Holdings Inc. in Barangay Taytay;

* Cebu Landmasters Casa Mira in Barangay Guinsay;

* A Cebudoc Group Township;

* Double Dragon Central Hub Danao Cebu;

* A Waste-to-Energy Plant Project; and

* A Toyota showroom.

Gorre said they are developing other sites for economic activities to flourish since Barangay Poblacion, which is the city’s commercial district, is already congested.

Incoming investors

Businesses have been relocating to the city, attracted by its stable economy, potential market and ease of doing business.

Dorothy Pinyoloya, chief executive officer (CEO) of TransitX, has invested US$759 million to manufacture podways in Danao City.

Transit X is an international firm that builds podways, a car-like suspended transportation.

“The reason why we chose Danao City is because it aligns with the ethics of our company and that is sustainability,” she said.

“Their public-private partnership has solidified our collaboration that we know the government will support us. We trust the City,” Pinyoloya added.

Michael Jimenez, CEO of Integrated Green Technology (IGT), has been in partnership with Danao City for more than eight years and currently has 12 waste-to-energy sites in the city.

Danao City has also been home to Cebu Mitsumi Inc. since 1989.

The Japanese-owned manufacturing firm produces “mobile devices, car electronics, medical devices, home and industrial applications, and wearable technology.”

It has nearly 20,000 employees. (EHP WITH DENISE MAE CODIS AND JUDIE LIZA ALANTOSON, CNU INTERNS)

THE Cebu City Government has increased the allocated budget for this year’s rehabilitation of barangay roads and thoroughfares from P70 million to P200 million, in a bid to also reduce road bottlenecks and traffic.

Councilor Jerry Guardo, committee on infrastructure chairman, told SunStar Cebu on Thursday, July 6, 2023, that the P100 million had already been awarded to Socor Construction Corp.

Guardo said 80 percent of P100 million will be spent for the rehabilitation of roads and bridges while the remaining 20 percent will be allocated for other structures like public parks, playgrounds and open basketball courts.

Meanwhile, the remaining P100 million is still on hold for the next bidding process for other projects.

The allocated budget for asphalt overlay will be deposited under the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) maintenance project.

Guardo explained that the City Government is focusing on the improvement of barangay and interior roads within the city including mountain barangays.

He said the DEPW will be the supervising agency for the “asphalt storm” project of the City Government.

He assured that the DEPW would accept requests from any barangay that wishes to have road asphalting in their area.

However, the DEPW would prioritize roads in dilapidated condition, Guardo added.

He said it will be Mayor Michael Rama who will choose which barangays need to be prioritized.

“The mayor will identify among those who have submitted requests coming from different barangays. He will choose who his priority is. If someone has been chosen, that will be the time when our contractor will start working,” Guardo said.

He explained the primary role of the DEPW is to classify dilapidated roads that need immediate interventions.

Contractor’s achievement

Apolo Dante, DEPW asphalting storm project head, told SunStar Cebu that Socor Construction has completed only two roads in Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, namely Golam Drive and Tandang Sora Street.

Golam Drive stretches up to 60 meters while Tandang Sora Street extends up to 300 meters.

Dante said almost all barangays in Cebu City have requested for road repair, especially with the advent of barangay elections.

Dante assured that even before the start of the asphalt storm project, the DEPW had already been doing road repairs in different barangays in Cebu City since January.

He said the DEPW has been implementing asphalting, patching, and retreading of roads as per priority scheduled based on request.

The DEPW has asphalted the following barangays: Mambaling (Sinulog Route and Stage), Basak San Nicolas (Alumnus Access road to SRP), Tejero (Tejero National HIgh School Ground), Zapatera (Tourism Office Ground), and Labangon (DSWD ground and Don Sergio Osmeña Sr. National High School).

The DEPW also implemented road retreading and patching in the following areas: Burgos St.,Barangay Sto. Niño; Alfonso Arcilla St.,Talamban; Sitio Kabulakan and Forest Hills Duterte St., in Guadalupe; Vestil St. BRT, and Bagsakan Entrance Road in Mambaling.

Traffic management

The Traffic Management Committee (TMC) Board has urged the DEPW to fully implement the asphalting of city streets since last year.

Kent Francesco Jongoy told SunStar Cebu on Monday, July 3, 2023, that the TMC board emphasized the importance of the quality of roads in many meetings the board had with the DEPW.

Jongoy said the efficiency of transportation sometimes depends on the quality of the city’s roads.

“This concern has been constantly raised by the TMC Board’s business sector headed by member Mike Jo,” Jongoy added.

Jongoy said potholes significantly increase travel time and create bottlenecks due to the drivers’ common attitude of avoiding them to prevent damage to their vehicles.

He shared that in one of his walk-throughs with Rama, the mayor emphasized the importance of having good quality roads in connection with the City’s vision to achieve a Singapore-like status.

“The current status of our streets is far from perfection,” Jongoy said.

However, he said the board is optimistic that city engineering offices, both local and national, can provide measures to maintain and improve the conditions of the roads.

He explained the TMC-Board’s primary functions under City Ordinance 1264 are to monitor and coordinate with national agencies in relation to the DEPW implementation of road infrastructure projects.

“Well, the only way toward development is through our roads in a compact city like ours,” Jongoy said.

Conversion

In April 2022, the Cebu City Government turned over nine roads, namely Sanciangko St., N. Escario St., Leon Kilat St., F. Ramos St., J. Alcantara St., P. del Rosario St., Junquera St., F. Vestil St. and A. Soriano St. to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for immediate implementation of asphalting of these roads.

Guardo said the City Government has requested for these roads to be converted from barangay roads to national roads.

“We endorsed those nine roads to be under the National Government, but we are still waiting for the approval. So what we did was to channel Congressman Eduardo Rama and Congresswoman Rachel Marguerite del Mar to file a bill to declare those as national roads,” he said.

He explained that once these roads are identified as national roads, the City will pass on its responsibility to the DPWH and all the maintenance will be at the latter’s expense.