Cebu Sun.Star

MORE than 50 young boys from Barangay Tejero, Cebu City, were circumcised for free during the annual Operation Tuli on Monday, July 10, 2023, at Tejero Sports Complex.

The expected target for the operation is 100 children, in which boys ages seven years old and above are welcome as long as the child is willing to be circumcised.

Maria Luise Gonide, a barangay health worker, said the program started at 8 a.m. Monday and it will run until 5 p.m. on a first come, first served basis.

She said the patients will be given a doctor's prescription and medicine for free after the child’s operation.

“Hatagan ni sila og resita ug tambal, dayon tagaan na sila og instructions unsaon pagpa-inom,” she said.

(They will be given a prescription and medicine, then they will be given instructions on how to drink it.)

In case the wound would be infected, they can still consult the doctor every Tuesday, she added.

Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chairperson Jonathan Marasigan said the main objective of the operation is to prevent infection.

“Support ra jud mi, labi na sa mga bata kay para kini sa ilang kalusugan,” he said.

(We support it, especially for children, because it is for their health.)

A parent, who asked not be named, shared her sentiments on the event, “Nalipay ko kay wala nako’y gastohan.”

“Kulbaan ko pero gi assured ko nila kuya (health workers) na dili ra ni sakit. Aron sad na malalaki nako,” said an eight-year-old kid.

(I am really nervous but the health workers assured me that it wouldn’t be painful, so that I’ll be a fully grown man.)

Earlier Monday, the City Health workers also conducted dental check-ups and taught children on how to brush their teeth two to three times a day.

The Operation Tuli was purely funded by the Cebu City Government. (Judie Liza Alantoson, CNU Intern)

AN OFFICIAL of the Cebu City Government urged City Hall employees to unite and work together toward achieving the administration's Singapore-like vision.

Cebu City Administrator Collin Rosell said on Monday, July 10, 2023, that everyone should bring unity to push for more development and attain the dream toward a better Cebu.

"Tanan giawhag sa paghugpong aron sa katumanan sa atoang mga collective aspirations ug mga pangandoy. Kini maoy ato gyud nga tarongon pag-ayo, ipakita sa mga katawhan," he said.

(Everyone is encouraged to unite in order to fulfill our collective aspirations and dreams. We should work well and show it to the people.)

He also said that the Singapore-like vision of Mayor Michael Rama’s administration is the collective aspirations of the people and not the city's vision itself.

"Singapore-like Cebu City is not the city's vision but it's the collective aspirations of the people," he said.

He also said that the people have been contributing through actions for an enhanced government that benefit the present and future generations. (Camille Erika Butas, CNU Intern)

Thermal Visayas' mission to keep Toledo City’s ocean clean

OUR oceans have always been a formidable force. To the fishermen, on good days, the ocean feeds their families. To the tourists looking for a reprieve, the oceans are an escape. To the people of Toledo City, Cebu protecting and preserving the marine biodiversity in the coastal areas of the city is not just an afterthought but a must.

In 2022, diving enthusiasts from the local power plant operating in Toledo City, Therma Visayas Incorporated (TVI) under Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) explored the depths of their surrounding waters. To their surprise and dismay, it was not only beautiful corals and marine life that greeted them, but plastic wastes scattered on the seafloor.

An earnest desire to make a difference led to the birth of Scubasurero, an AboitizPower and TVI-led initiative that enjoined local government and people's initiative to do clean-ups not only along the shoreline and surface of the waters but also the submerged coastal areas near the TVI facilities and the Bato Marine Sanctuary. Quite appropriately, the coined word “Scubasurero” is a portmanteau combining the words 'scuba diving' and 'basurero' or garbage collector.

As a Scubasurero and one of the leaders of Bantay Dagat, Eugene pushes to be an agent of change by helping protect the waters of Barangay Bato.

Eugene Matin-aw, a 41-year-old father of four, made it clear: his job as a team leader of the Bantay Dagat seaborne patrol and the Scubasurero program has changed and strengthened his views on protecting the oceans and the marine sanctuary in Barangay Bato.

“Importante ni, kay kung wala ang marine sanctuary, mawad-an isda ang Toledo. Ang atong kadagatan mawala, kay ari mana sila mu-produce ang isda og mga sperm mga semilia, ari sa marine sanctuary, sa corals. Mao na’y makuha pud sa atong mananagat, kay og wala’y sanctuary wala nay isda, wala na’y managat,” Eugene shared.

(This is very important because, without the marine sanctuary, Toledo will lose all its fish. Our marine life will be gone since the fish reproduce in the sanctuary and lay eggs on the corals. That’s the same fish that our fishermen catch. Without the sanctuary, there won’t be any fish, and there will no longer be fishermen [in these areas].)

Being a Scubasurero, Eugene’s daily life is now connected to the oceans. Aside from protecting the marine sanctuary, the program has given him the opportunity to provide for his family. With the honorarium and the fish they often receive, Eugene said that being a Bantay Dagat and Scubasurero gave him the chance to do something for the environment and for his family at the same time.

Eugene (right) leads his Bantay Dagat team in ensuring that the sanctuary is clean and well-protected.

Alwin Canonigo, head of the Bantay Dagat crew, said that in the early days of setting boundaries for the sanctuary, they received some kind of resistance from the people, with most of the complaints concerning no longer being allowed to collect seashells by the seashore. However, the people eventually realized the benefits.

“Ig-kadugay nakasabot sila na nindot kaayo na naay marine sanctuary kay ang isda dili mapuo. Karon bitaw ilang istorya nindot daghan na kaayong isda diri,” Alwin said.

(Eventually, they realized that it's good to have a marine sanctuary because the fish will not disappear completely. Now, they talk about the abundance of fish in the area.)

Noel Cabahug believes that taking care of the environment is necessary for survival. He joined the Scubasurero event in March to help clean up the Marine Sanctuary near TVI.

Meanwhile, for Vice-President and Facility head of TVI Noel Cabahug, diving deep and being part of the instigators of the program has given him a unique perspective on marine environment protection.

“I shared it with my son, na kini, mao ni atong i-maintain... This is ours. Without taking care of our environment, wala na ta. Wala na ta’y isda, wala na’y mahabilin nato nga isda,” Noel said, recalling the day when the coastal clean-up event happened.

(I shared with my son, that this is what we have to maintain... This is ours. Without taking care of our environment, we will also be gone. The fish will be gone, nothing will be left,”)

Therma Visayas Inc. employees along with other volunteers swam the waters of Brgy. Bato to collect trash underwater.

TVI and AboitizPower’s program, along with local government action, is one of the best ways to help preserve the environment in Toledo City, shared Toledo City Agriculture Head Estrella Bargamento.

“With Scubasurero na mutabang, ingon ani mani siya. Ang dili mabuhat sa LGU, mahug sad na mahal-mahal, unya ang uban kay voluntary baya na. Mahug siya og tinabangay nga ang ilang passion mahimo siyang importante og makatabang sa constituents dinhi na ang Bato Marine Sanctuary magpabilin siya nga limpyo,” Estrella said.

(With Scubasurero helping, they get to augment the things that the LGU cannot do with the high costs, especially since most of the divers are volunteers. It ends up being a collaboration, with their passions aligned with helping the constituents in keeping the Bato Marine Sanctuary clean.)

She hopes that neighboring towns and cities, and even the whole country, would adopt similar programs and see its progress in Toledo City.

Marigold Lebumfacil, reputation and stakeholder management specialist of TVI, said that their brainchild project has led to a collection of around 2.09 tons of waste with all of the clean-ups that they have done. She has witnessed how the program has changed the behavior of the local communities, and the ripples the program has created.

“They are already very aware that plastics are very harmful to the oceans. So far, with our monthly coastal cleanups, very active sila in supporting, and they even bring their own brooms, sacks, for the coastal clean-up.” Marigold said.

“It’s not for us, it’s for our future generations. I have kids, personally, it’s good that we started this kind of activity because if we keep doing this, it’s not only us that will benefit from this,” she added.

For the people behind Scubasurero, these are their promises and vision for the future, the marine environment, and the people of Toledo City.

Therma Visayas, Inc. (TVI) is one of the three coal-fired power plants in the country that houses a Coal Dome facility. It uses a state-of-the-art Circulating Fluidized Bed (CFB) and the Best Available Control Technology (BACT) to minimize coal dust emissions that can harm the atmosphere. (SPONSORED CONTENT)

THIS might be a bold claim, but there is great reason to believe that Filipino nurses are the most sought-after health care professionals in the world. In the United States, Middle East, Japan, Australia, most European countries, and several other countries worldwide, Filipino nurses are most loved by both patients and employers not only because of their proficiency in the English language, their competencies and their work ethic, but more so for the Filipino brand of nursing service which, more often than not, extends the “extra mile” in caring compassionately for their patients, especially those already in their twilight chapters.

Recognized for their contribution to the United Kingdom’s response to the coronavirus, Filipino Nurses Charito Romano and Minnie Klepacz were awarded the British Empire Medal in 2021. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II even wrote in a message to then President Rodrigo Duterte her commendation on the services of Filipino nurses in U.K., saying: “They bring exceptional care and comfort to their patients. I wanted to express my sincerest gratitude for their work, especially in response to the coronavirus.” Elsewhere in the world, Filipino nurses continue to shine, giving not only the basic health care which patients need, but sharing as well a part of themselves to offer compassion, comfort and care.

There are actually 951, 905 registered Filipino nurses, according to the Professional Regulation Commission. Out of this number, only 509,297 or 53.55 percent are in actual practice. Added to this, an estimated 19,000 Filipino nurses migrate every year to other countries which offer more substantial pay and incentives packages as well as opportunities for permanent residency for them and their families.

Who wouldn’t be lured with that chance at living better lives in better countries? The exodus of Filipino medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, continue to threaten the Philippine health care system. Unless the Department of Health can offer commensurable options, then we watch helplessly as our doctors and nurses flee.

I think it is utterly unfair for Filipino nurses choosing to work abroad to be labelled ungrateful or unpatriotic. If comparable opportunities can only be made available for them here, I am sure they would not decide to leave home. With costs of living rising disproportionately with work pay and incentives, we cannot blame the likes of Filipino nurses seeking broader and brighter horizons. The current shortage of nurses is at a high of about 106,000.

While legislation to advance the welfare and interest of our health care professionals are well underway, their flight continues. Recognizing the valuable contribution of Filipino nurses in sustaining the Philippine health care system may not be enough. Unless and until these professionals can clearly see a brighter ray of hope for them in their home country, they will continue to sacrifice being distant and missing time if it will mean better opportunities, better lives for their families. (SPONSORED CONTENT)

THE current water rate of the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) remains unchanged.

This is because the Local Water Utility Administration (LWUA) has yet to respond to MCWD’s proposal to increase the water tariff by 60 percent.

MCWD was initially set to implement the increase on July 1, 2023. However, pending the approval of LWUA, the government-owned and -controlled corporation (GOCC) cannot proceed with the rate changes.

Currently, MCWD charges P15.20 per cubic meter for the first 10 cubic meters in a month for residential consumers, with a minimum charge of P152. If the increase is granted, the minimum charge will be P243.

MCWD is also proposing a supplementary adjustment of 10 percent in 2024.

MCWD Chairman Jose Daluz III told SunStar Cebu on Sunday, July 9, that LWUA board has not yet convened to discuss MCWD’s application.

As long as there is no approval from LWUA, the water rate will remain unchanged.

However, Daluz said they anticipate a response from LWUA within two or three months.

The proposed increase aims to cover the expenses of MCWD’s ongoing and upcoming projects, which will enhance the water district’s services.

MCWD information officer Minerva Gerodias said that from 2015 to the present, MCWD has spent P2.1 billion on expansion and rehabilitation projects to improve service, as well as P12 billion on operational expenses.

Daluz expressed hope for a positive response from LWUA, explaining that MCWD’s purchase and procurement of water supply costs are increasing. He also said that MCWD’s expenses will further rise once the water desalination project begins, which is expected to be operational by October.

Gerodias said MCWD is a self-liquidating GOCC, and does not receive subsidies from the National Government.

It has been eight years since MCWD last implemented a water tariff increase, and the planned increase for 2020 was not implemented due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

MCWD claims to offer the cheapest water rates in the entire country.

MCWD supplies water to the cities of Cebu, Talisay, Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu, as well as the towns of Cordova, Consolacion, Liloan and Compostela.

THE Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cebu’s (RCAC) proposal to establish new dioceses within its ecclesiastical jurisdiction has been approved by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) during its 126th plenary assembly.

Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma announced the development on “Sugbuswak,” the Archdiocese’s term for the creation of the new dioceses, in a short video clip posted on RCAC’s Facebook page on Sunday, July 9, 2023.

“Ang atong proposal bahin sa ‘Sugbuswak’ unanimously approved sa tanang mga obispo. Nalipay sila ning atong pangandoy,” he said.

(Our proposal regarding “Sugbuswak” was unanimously approved by all the bishops. They are pleased with our vision.)

The Diocese of Kalibo, Aklan is hosting the CBCP plenary assembly, which started on Saturday, July 8, and will end on Monday, July 10. During the said event,

Bishop Pablo Virgilio David of the Diocese of Kalookan was reelected to head the CBCP.

CBCP’s approval is just one of the requirements for Sugbuswak to prosper. After the CBCP’s approval, the Sugbuswak proposal will be forwarded to Rome for further approval.

“When we present it to Rome, it should be in a way that the many aspects of the division should already be well-prepared,” Palma said in an interview on Feb. 24, adding that the archdiocese must have an “adequate explanation” and “reason for the division.”

Palma expressed his hopes to SunStar Cebu last June 24 that the Vatican would grant approval for “Sugbuswak,” or the proposal to divide the largest archdiocese in the Philippines for better pastoral care.

By January, a detailed version of the archdiocese’s division plan is expected to be sent to the Vatican for examination and approval by the Pope.

The plan is to divide the archdiocese into three: the archdiocese as the mother church, one diocese in northern Cebu and one diocese in southern Cebu.

Palma said in an interview last July that Carcar City is being considered as the center of the planned diocese in the south.

The cities of Danao and Bogo are being considered as the center of the planned diocese in the north, he said.

Palma said there is a need to split the archdiocese because some of the faithful have to travel long distances to reach their respective parishes.

The Sugbuswak plan, he said, aims “to serve more people, especially the far-flung areas and islands in the province.”

Sugbuswak is a combination of several words: Sugbu, the native name of Cebu; “sugwak,” meaning to spurt, and “buswak,” meaning to bloom. / AML, KAL

ONLY 287 land titles were awarded to 204 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) from Cebu Province.

The awarding ceremony was held at Uypitching Multipurpose Hall, Valencia, Negros Oriental on Friday July 7, 2023, the same day President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law Republic Act 11593, or the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, which condones all unpaid amortizations, including interests and surcharges, for awarded lands under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law and other agrarian reform laws.

A total of 32,441 land titles were awarded to over 23,000 ARBs, including those from Cebu Province.

In Cebu, the titles for ARBs cover a total of 265,481 hectares, spread across eight local government units: Barili, Bogo City, Carcar City, Carmen, Catmon, Danao City, Medellin and Tabogon.

According to data from the Department of Agrarian Reform, the breakdown of ARBs, titles and land area in hectares for each municipality and city is as follows: Barili -- 29 ARBs, 66 titles, 4.3328 hectares; Bogo City -- nine ARBs, 12 titles, 6.8877 hectares; Carcar City -- 16 ARBs, 17 titles, 3.5162 hectares; Carmen -- 10 ARBs, 11 titles, 25.1472 hectares; Catmon -- 45 ARBs, 23 titles, 31.4758 hectares; Medellin -- 40 ARBs, 82 titles, 95.1784 hectares; and Tabogon -- five ARBs, five titles, four hectares.

Seventy-one electronic land titles (e-titles) under the Support Parcelization of Lands for Individual Tilting project were given to 50 ARBs in Danao City, covering 50.0109 hectares of land.

A CHAMPION of Cebuano arts and culture, one of the pillars of the Sinulog Festival, and a great friend.

This is how some officials in Cebu City described Ricky Ballesteros, a former executive director of the Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) and renowned sports organizer who passed away on Saturday, July 8, 2023. He was 57.

According to reports, Ballesteros suffered a cardiac arrest while riding an elevator at a mall in Barangay Apas, Cebu City.

City Councilor Joel Garganera said on Sunday, July 9, that Ballesteros’ contributions to Cebu’s culture, arts and sports are well-known to many.

“May he be in office or not, his heart is embedded there,” said Garganera, who considered Ballesteros as a friend.

Garganera recalled that for the last three decades, conversations or meetings with Ballesteros were always “light and fun.”

Promoter of culture

Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera, who also chairs the Cebu City Tourism Commission, expressed gratitude for Ballesteros’ efforts in promoting Cebu’s culture to foreign countries, particularly to South Koreans.

“He was so passionate about promoting our culture, especially the Sinulog. We lost one of the people who constantly promote Cebu to the South Koreans,” said Pesquera in a text message to SunStar Cebu.

For his part, incumbent SFI executive director Elmer “Jojo” Labella said he admired Ballesteros and described him as a versatile man, acknowledging his instrumental role in the success of the Sinulog celebrations, including the workshops and seminars.

“He was a very close friend, so supportive of me when I was appointed as the new SFI executive director,” said Labella in a text message.

Ballesteros, a political science graduate from the University of the Visayas, was manager of the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) from 2001 to 2019. Ballesteros was also executive director of the SFI at the time.

Sinulog Festival

Ballesteros’ contributions and leadership elevated the Sinulog festival to become one of the largest and most prominent in the Philippines and Asia.

In a 2016 interview with SunStar Cebu, Ballesteros emphasized the importance of evaluating each Sinulog event and striving for improvements annually.

Under his guidance, various contests were introduced to enrich the Sinulog celebration, including the festival queen contest, street dancing category, free interpretation category, Sinulog-based category, and competitions such as the Sinulog photo contest, Sinulog Idol, Sinulog dance crew contest, DJ-mixing competition, music video contest, Sinulog documentary and short film festival, as well as the higante and puppeteer contests.

Throughout his tenure, Ballesteros embraced the consistent theme of “one beat, one dance, one vision” for the Sinulog festival.

Unsolved

His 18-year stint as CCSC manager was marred by the theft of P1.7 million in SFI and CCSC funds from a vault in the sports center’s office on Jan. 16, 2012, a day after the Sinulog Grand Parade. The crime remains unsolved.

He was SFI executive director for 15 years until his resignation in 2018, following allegations by then Cebu City mayor Tomas Osmeña of mishandling of SFI funds, which Ballesteros denied.

Ballesteros cited personal reasons for his resignation from the SFI, saying he was not getting any younger.

Other endeavors

Following his resignation, Ballesteros served as the president of the Korea Philippines Festival Cultural Exchange Association.

He brought the Sinulog to other countries, including South Korea, where the Sinulog won multiple times, most notably at the Daegu Powerful Festival.

Ballesteros was also known as a race organizer.

Ballesteros’ remains will lie at Our Lady of China Chapel, Sacred Heart Church on D. Jakosalem St. starting at 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Interment will take place at the Cebu Memorial Park in Barangay Banilad, Cebu City on Thursday, July 13. (JJL, JGS, CTL, FVQ)

A FORMER senator has voiced his concerns over alleged plans to move the 40-foot statue of Lapulapu, also known as the “Sentinel of Freedom,” located at the Rizal Park in Ermita, Manila.

Richard Gordon, chairman and chief executive officer of the Philippine Red Cross, is appealing to Filipinos, especially Cebuanos, to oppose this alleged initiative by the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP).

Gordon said in an online conference Sunday, July 9, 2023, that he had written a letter dated July 6 to NMP Director General Jeremy Barns, questioning the plan to move the monument, and telling him that the monument represents the bravery of Filipinos and must be protected.

“Without stating the obvious, I feel passionate about this issue. This is not merely about a monument and its location. It is about continuing to honor our country’s first known patriot and freedom fighter. It is about recognizing his example of fortitude, bravery and integrity, especially in these times of foreign and political bullying,” a portion of Gordon’s letter reads.

Gordon said that Barns met with Juan Sajid Imao, the sculptor of the monument, to inform him of NMP’s plans to relocate the monument to Orosa St. in Malate, Manila.

Unveiling

In February 2004, Lapulapu’s monument was unveiled at Rizal Park despite the objection from the National Historical Institute (now the National Historical Commission of the Philippines), which said the place is only for heroes who died there.

After the NHI objected, the late Raul del Mar (then representative of Cebu City’s North District) and Nerissa Soon-Ruiz (then representative of Cebu’s 6th District) filed a resolution urging former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to allow the monument to be erected there. It was not known whether that resolution prompted Arroyo to order to go ahead with the unveiling.

When he was still the tourism secretary in the Arroyo administration, Gordon brought up the idea of putting a Lapulapu statue at Rizal Park. He had already left his tourism post when the monument was unveiled.

The monument, which depicts Lapulapu standing guard, is a gift from South Korea to the Filipino people through the Korean Freedom League headed by its chairperson Kwon Jung-dal, a retired army general.

‘Unlawful’

According to Gordon, since the monument is located at Rizal Park, which is a heritage site, the NMP’s initiative violates Republic Act 10066, which aims to provide for the protection and preservation of the Philippine Cultural Heritage.

Gordon said the law took steps to preserve historic structures that are over 50 years old. It has been 68 years since the park was officially named Rizal Park in 1955.

Although Section 9 of the law enables the NMP to create a master plan for Rizal Park, Gordon argued that it is not exempt from the law.

Gordon said the dismantling, clearing and hauling works in the site have already removed the concrete steps of the Lapulapu monument.

“You can see the Lapulapu monument. It is standing there alone, they have already demolished the steps. It is all dust now,” he said while presenting the video to reporters.

Gordon expressed that he does not mind if the monument is renovated or improved as long as it remains in the same spot.

Calls for support

Gordon is asking the Filipino people, particularly those from Cebuano-speaking regions, to oppose the initiative to move the monument.

“I hope that people from Cebu, Leyte, Samar and Bohol, and folks in Mindanao, also in Luzon, to join us,” he said.

He believes that having the Lapulapu monument at Rizal Park is fitting since the hero represents the people from Visayas and Mindanao, while Rizal’s monument represents the people from Luzon.

“These should be known by the Cebuanos and other people. I do not have any other agenda here but to respect our history,” he added.

Only repair

Barns, in a letter sent to Gordon on June 30, said the monument will undergo repair after a technical assessment and consultation with the sculptor. It was discovered that the monument requires structural repairs related to its internal frame and foundation.

However, Gordon said that NMP’s plans regarding the monument remains unclear, whether they intend to tear it down, relocate it, or simply repair it.

Gordon said NMP had previously orchestrated the demolition of the giant geographical map of the country, known as the “Relief Map,” also located at the park, without public knowledge.

The removal of the “Relief Map” sparked controversy as it was initially said to undergo renovation but was ultimately demolished.

HOMEGROWN Prince Retail Group has collaborated with Relex Solutions, a market-leading supply chain and retail planning firm, to automate demand forecasting for its more than 70 supermarket stores nationwide.

The company said in a statement that its technological investment will strengthen its position to strategically expand its reach in remote areas across the Philippines.

Stefano Scandelli, an official at Relex Solutions, said that its “collaboration with Prince Retail is a great opportunity to show how Filipino companies can take advantage of automation and AI to realize further growth.”

“We are committed to helping more local retailers digitally transform their supply chains to remain relevant in today’s digital economy,” said Scandelli, senior vice president for Europe, Middle East and Africa and Asia Pacific.

Partnership

Prince Retail and Relex established their partnership at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, during which the access to essentials was crucial.

However, accessing retail channels in rural communities in the Philippines has always been challenging due to regional infrastructure hurdles, according to the company.

Prince Retail said its mission is to close this accessibility gap, adding that the pandemic’s emphasis on the problem only pushed it to finding means to reach and serve more marginalized people.

At the time, Prince Retail said it also faced persistent supply chain challenges that, if not resolved, posed a severe threat to the business’s financial viability.

Demand forecasting was an entirely manual process, leaving teams with significant risks for errors when internal variables and local developments such as lockdowns, shortages of raw materials, or adverse weather conditions occurred, it said.

Maintaining a steady and accurate inventory flow and optimizing operational costs in preparation for expansion was taxing, as almost every Prince Retail store was about 100 kilometers from the nearest port, the company said.

Prince Retail said implementing the Relex unified retail planning solution has enabled it to maximize their resources, streamline operational costs and processes, and improve service levels, even in the most far-flung stores.

The retailer said its forecasting and allocation teams can easily input and view inventory information on a single platform, including intricacies and constraints unique to a specific vendor or store. The result significantly reduces discrepancies brought by disparate, manual forecasting methods, it said.

Powered by AI

The platform, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), automates the complex and time-consuming decisions of calculating forecasts based on user data and harnesses machine learning to optimize predictions.

“Automating our demand forecasting helped us increase our availability by at least 10 percent, enabling us to flourish and deliver a better customer experience despite the uncertainties brought by the pandemic,” shared Rina Janine Go, chief merchandising, marketing and distribution officer at Prince Retail Group of Companies.

“The use of AI greatly supported us to improve our decision-making with data-driven insights that ultimately catalysed our growth and enabled us to serve our customers better than ever before. It helped us seamlessly expand, even with an online channel and other initiatives to reach more customers who were struggling with where to buy their essential necessities,” she added.

In 2021, the corporate group’s subsidiary, Prince Hypermart, partnered with the B2B application “My Suki” to launch an e-commerce app catering to the growing number of digital customers, particularly the large base of resellers who source their goods from Prince. The unified tool for demand forecasting allowed the retailer to seamlessly integrate inventory for both online and offline channels in real time.

Prince Retail said it is one of the organizations that quickly pivoted to digital when the pandemic occurred, advocating digital transformation for other homegrown businesses due to its positive impact on stakeholders.

“Agile digital transformation helped us to streamline our forecasting, better serve our existing customers, and even reach more of the market through our online shopping app — all contributing to the increased confidence and trust in our retail stores,” Go said.

“I believe it’s also equally important to recognize that investing in technological tools that enable us to move away from manual operations increases the digital skills of Filipino workers, which are essential to be future-ready,” Go said. (PR)

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.