Cebu Sun.Star

THE picturesque province of Bohol is poised to elevate its tourism landscape with the unwavering support of GCash, one of the leading mobile wallets in the country.

Through a range of innovative digital solutions, GCash aims to bolster the livelihoods of local government units (LGUs) and over 5,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) while enhancing the overall travel experience for visitors.

From seamless cashless transactions with Scan-To-Pay to accessible micro-loans through GLoan and comprehensive insurance coverage with GInsure, GCash's pioneering initiatives create a unified effort to boost Bohol's tourism and propel the province towards a thriving future.

These innovations aim to revitalize the local tourism industry in the province by integrating digital payment solutions into local tourism campaigns, ushering in a new era of cashless travel experiences.

'Sulong Turismo' is set to empower LGUs with famed tourist spots to adopt convenient cashless payments for various tourism-related transactions, such as travel bookings, accommodations, and retail shopping.

By leveraging digital tools and showcasing their wide-ranging benefits, the campaign aspires to enhance customer satisfaction, drive repeat visits, and invigorate the overall tourist experience throughout the region.

“We are proud to be a part of the Sulong Turismo initiative. Financial inclusion toward economic growth has always been the main goal of GCash. And we believe that this can be achieved through partnerships with both the public and private sectors, so that together we can present opportunities to business owners as well as consumers, for a safer, secure, convenient, and profitable payment solution that can boost the domestic tourism industry,” said GCash Chief Marketing Officer, Neil Trinidad.

The official inauguration of 'Sulong Turismo' commenced with a dynamic seminar and dialogue, where the advantages of a digitalized tourism industry were extensively discussed, focusing on LGUs boasting prominent tourist destinations.Driver of tourismThe Department of Tourism (DOT) unveiled exciting plans for infrastructure development, a dedicated tourism website, and a cutting-edge tourism app, all aimed at incentivizing tourism-related businesses to embrace digital payments and pave the way for growth in the sector.

Distinguished guests at the event included Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado; Department of Tourism Chief Tourism Officer for Central Visayas, Dr. Gelena Asis-Dimpas; Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Regional Head of Economic Affairs, Greg Baccay; Philippine Information Agency Head, Rey Anthony Chiu; Panglao City Vice Mayor Noel Hormachuelos; Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap; and GCash Chief Marketing Officer, Neil Trinidad.

Their presence underscored the importance of this initiative and highlighted the collective effort to drive the tourism industry forward.

During the event, the concept of a tourism circuit was unveiled, presenting a strategic route or itinerary that connects multiple tourist attractions within a specific region.

This structured approach aims to promote the region's diverse offerings and entice tourists to spend more time exploring unique destinations.

“The active participation of local businesses, including micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), market vendors, and transport groups, further exemplified the strong collaboration between the public and private sectors in propelling the region's tourism industry. We are very happy to be the first municipality to have pioneered this initiative and we are hoping that other municipalities would follow our lead,” said Governor Aumentado.Cashless digital tourismThe GCash app, available for free on Google Play and App Store, plays a central role in facilitating cashless transactions during travel.

Its user-friendly interface and secure payment features make it an ideal tool for tourists and businesses to embrace the digital revolution in the tourism industry.

'GCash Scan-To-Pay enables seamless payments and smoother business operations. It allows entrepreneurs and businesses to offer cashless transactions through a generated QR Code,' Cathlyn Pavia of GCash explained.

'This feature allows business owners to receive payments through cashless transactions. Merchants receive real-time texts on their smartphones when payments are made, enabling them to monitor transactions in their merchant portal, accept unlimited transactions daily, and even offer GGives and GCredit to their customers. These features facilitate more efficient day-to-day operations and open doors to potential increases in sales.'

To further support the aspirations of budding entrepreneurs, GCash offers GLoan, a hassle-free borrowing platform accessible through the GCash app.

With GLoan, eligible business owners can access instant cash of up to P125K without the burden of additional documents or collateral.

The loan amount is determined based on the individual's GScore—a reflection of their activity and usage of GCash's products and features.

'GLoan lets you enjoy low-interest rates starting at 1.59 percent per month, and you can pay your installments in 5, 6, 9, or 12 months. Once approved, the loan will be sent to your GCash wallet within minutes, so you can immediately use it,' Pavia said.

Additionally, GCash's commitment to comprehensive financial protection is evident through GInsure, an all-encompassing insurance marketplace within the app. Travelers, whether exploring locally or abroad, can find peace of mind with insurance policies ranging from travel, life, health, and more, offering coverage of up to P2.5Mn. With GInsure, individuals no longer need to fret about lost baggage, emergencies, or unforeseen inconveniences during their journeys.

With 'Sulong Turismo' paving the way for cashless digital tourism, Bohol is set to become a shining example of how technology and strategic partnerships can transform and elevate the travel experience.

As the campaign gains momentum, Bohol's picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality are now more accessible than ever, promising an unforgettable journey for travelers seeking to explore the wonders of this province.

For more information on 'Sulong Turismo' and the GCash app, visit www.gcash.com.ph. (SPONSORED CONTENT)

Officially, it takes an hour after the first half whistle for a football match to end, including the 15-minute break. But that hour between the whistles ending the first half and full-time against New Zealand seemed like an eternity.

An hour or so before the match, I went with some office mates as they lit candles at the Santiago Apostle Church in Badian, which was celebrating its fiesta. I thought of lighting one, too, but decided against it.

I may not be religious, but when it comes to sports—especially the national football teams—I am certainly superstitious and one of my superstitions is you never involve The Guy above.

Minutes before the match, a fellow writer whom I was planning to catch the final Filipinas game against Norway with said he couldn’t make it. I didn’t reply nor acknowledge his message for an hour before he sent it, I also informed a staff member of Jeff Cheng—who was assisting us to get to New Zealand—that I couldn’t make it. I thought it was a lucky coincidence.

After New Zealand had us backpedaling early, Sarina Bolden had her moment.

First attempt. 1-0 Philippines. It was magical. Her shout was for us all—the guys and gals in the stadium, the folks on press row, those in watch parties and those who couldn’t shout while stuck in offices following the game on mobile.

Then the second half happened. New Zealand upped the pressure but the ladies were up to it, especially Olivia McDaniel. There was that sequence when the home team seemed to be zeroing in, getting free headers, including one from a corner kick played to the middle.

How quick the Ferns were in the second half. After Sara Eggesvik lost the ball near the New Zealand box, McDaniel was forced to come out of her box to stop an attack.

We’ve had our bad luck as a sporting nation, the Robbery in Atlanta 96 involving Mansueto Velasco against Daniel Petrov being one of them. But on July 25, 2023 Lady Luck was on our side.

In the 65th, Jacqui Hand hit the post with rebound going straight to McDaniel and two minutes later Hannah Wilkinson’s header sailed past McDaniel only to be disallowed because of an earlier offside, thanks to VAR.

I’ve long ceased trying to understand offside VAR calls but at that moment, I whispered a message of thanks. There were some comical moments, too. Carleigh Frilles, a late sub, collected an errant goal kick but her harried shot went nowhere and minutes later, she failed to see the offside flag and played on.

But the second half belonged to McDaniel. You know the saying that your life flashes before you just before you die? I think the football life of Filipino fans flashed before them when the fourth official showed there were five added minutes.

I had visions of all sorts of headlines, thankfully our No. 1 was there. A reflex save on Grace Jale’s shot kept us ahead, a save that reminded me of Gordon Banks against Pele and of Emiliano Martinez’s save against France. Considering the circumstances and moment, that was the greatest save by a Filipino keeper, ever.

And I think it was fitting that our longest hour ended with McDaniel kicking the ball high in the air.

THE Nest Workspaces-2013 demolished the Harley Davidson-2014, 84-61, in Division C of the 26th Sacred Heart Ateneo Alumni Basketball Athletic Association basketball tournament on July 26, 2023 at the Magis Eagles Arena in Mandaue City.

Batch 2013 took control of the game in the second canto, where they unleashed a 23-10 salvo to turn the tide firmly in their favor. Batch 2013 was so dominant they pushed their lead to a high of 27 at 84-57 not long before the final buzzer sounded.

Batch 2013’s guards had their way with Batch 2014’s defense as Rendell Senining and Arc Gabriel Araw-Araw had 18 points apiece, the former adding nine rebounds, three assists and two steals.

Fletcher Galvez and Emman Malazarte added 12 markers apiece as Batch 2013 remained undefeated in this competition.

In the other Division C game, the reigning champions Heritage Supreme Land Developer-2012 got their first win of the season after beating Batch 2020, 76-64. Rev-Rev Diputado had 20 points while Maverick Suarez and Dave Wilson Yu tallied 11 markers apiece. (JNP)

WIDELY acclaimed for quality weekend buffets, Cafe Marco introduces a new Indo-Malay section to spice up its popular weekend offering, with flavors heating up from the kitchens of Indonesia and Malaysia.

The buffet’s new Asian section is a collaboration between native Malaysian chef Kenny Yong and Amina Bint Ahmad Alonto, who comes from years of experience in Jakarta learning Indonesia’s culinary tradition.

The result is “Sedap!” (Malay for delicious) a flavorful Indo-Malay experience blending a tableau of flavors and spices from the Middle East and India, and nuances of Chinese influence.

Think sambal, satays, curries, beef rendang, laksa, baku teh, Malay-style Hainanese chicken rice and more.

The Indo-Malay fare is a welcome addition to the hotel’s international weekend buffets, from Friday lunch to Sunday brunch until Aug. 13, 2023.

On Fridays, lunch and dinner groups enjoy the 4+1 Foodie Friday offer, where every four full-paying guests entitle the fifth person to dine free. Children under 12 years receive a 50 percent discount. Reservations are highly recommended. (PR)

CEBU’S dance scene reached a fever pitch of excitement as “Red Bull Dance Your Style” made its debut in Metro Cebu with an electrifying qualifier event, Saturday, July 15, 2023, at Trademark Cebu.

The energy was palpable as 16 exceptional dancers took to the stage showcasing their unique styles and unrestrained creativity. “Red Bull Dance Your Style,” renowned for celebrating individuality and diversity in dance, proved to be a perfect platform for dancers to unleash their improvisational skills and freestyle moves, allowing their passion for dance to shine.

In an awe-inspiring display of talent, Shihan Maui, affectionately known as Baby Titan, emerged as the champion of the regional qualifier. His performance left the audience in awe, combining precision, artistic expression, and a distinct style that captivated everyone in attendance.

In an interview, Maui expressed his elation, stating that winning the “Red Bull Dance Your Style” regional tournament fulfilled a lifelong dream. He reminisced about his childhood fascination with the power of dance and the thrill of competition, emphasizing that this victory symbolized the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in his abilities.

The competition in Cebu was fierce, with three other standout performers earning their places in the top 4. JPY, Taw and Nemesis showcased exceptional talent, securing their spots as they left an indelible mark on the dance floor. Notably, Nemesis stood out as the sole female finalist, breaking barriers and demonstrating that dance knows no gender boundaries.

The regional qualifiers in the country’s capital, Manila, took place July 22 at URBN QC. Cebu’s representatives will join the winners of that event in the National Finals in September. The Top 4 finalists from each regional qualifier will compete for the ultimate prize—a coveted spot in the “Red Bull Dance Your Style” World Finals, which will take place in Frankfurt, Germany in November.

“Red Bull Dance Your Style” has undoubtedly ignited a wave of enthusiasm among dancers and dance enthusiasts across the country. Its unique approach to celebrating individuality, creativity and diverse dance styles has invigorated the dance community, uniting performers from different regions in their shared passion for dance.

As the competition continues to unfold, it remains a testament to the power of dance in transcending boundaries, inspiring dreams and uniting people from all walks of life.

Red Bull’s commitment to supporting sports, culture and high-energy events has once again demonstrated that dance is a force that can empower and uplift, creating unforgettable moments that resonate far beyond the dance floor.

It is one of the rare instances in pop culture when two starkly different films are being shown on the same day. People are on the edge of their seats to see which one will emerge triumphant at the Box Office.

This is the case of “Barbenheimer,” an internet phrase succinctly coined for two of recent cinema’s highly anticipated films, vying for a place in pop culture history.

Needless to say, the “Barbenheimer” fever was felt all over. Whether you’re a casual online surfer or an ordinary citizen looking for a good time on the big screen, the impalpable frenzy by those who were more than eager to watch either one of the films—or both—is unmissable.

“Barbie” (directed by Academy Award-nominated director Greta Gerwig) and “Oppenheimer” (directed by multiple Academy Award-winner Christopher Nolan) were both released in Philippine theaters on July 19, 2023, and the rest of the world caught up as the two films finally showed in the United States two days later.

It is not uncommon for studios to release two or more films of different genres on the same date. For example, “The Dark Knight” and “Mamma Mia!” were both released on the same date, July 18, 2008, and both movies went on to become sensational blockbuster hits.

However, with the rise of social media, “Barbenheimer” has become an unprecedented offline and online phenomenon. Memes spurted left and right weeks before their scheduled release (showcasing the famous “Barbie” all-pink fantasy and the “Oppenheimer” dark subject about the creation of the first atomic bomb). The anticipation of both films gradually built and revived the magic of cinema as people streamed from their homes to their local theaters to not only watch but also experience this phenomenon themselves.

Both films tackle completely different subjects. The showing of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” is indeed a cinematic rivalry that the world hasn’t seen for more than a decade. However, rivalry or no rivalry, and regardless of how the world is making this out to be, both movies are masterpieces in their own right.

From Nolan’s impeccable visualization and complex but compelling storytelling of one of history’s most important scientific figures to Gerwig’s lighthearted and humor-injected approach to retelling the story of the world-famous Barbie doll, it is a clear indication that audiences are beyond eager to see more diverse subjects from esteemed directors.

Nolan and Gerwig, without a doubt, are breathing life into a faltering industry in the era of digital streaming plus the possibility of a terrifying takeover of artificial intelligence. Other than being a phenomenon that the world hasn’t seen in a while, “Barbenheimer” serves as a reminder of how cinema should be—an experience that should engulf your mind, heart, body and soul.

They were all saying that Europe was wrapped in a heat wave. Nobody told me about London. The morning after our arrival, we ventured out for a walk at the nearby Kensington Gardens, clad only in shorts and our Walk and Talk exercise shirt. The moment we stepped out, I was ready to run back to the hotel for shelter. It was cold. Fifteen degrees cold.

Pride kept me going, shivering and all especially when the wind blew under an overcast sky. After about 30 minutes, my body began to adjust and for a while I tried to act like a local to whom 15 degrees was mild just like 30 degrees was mild to us at the Cebu City Sports Center.

But then very fine drops of rain fell from the frowning sky and the wind began to blow again even if so gently. I did not run for cover, however. I just shivered again. I am a visitor, unused to outdoor temperatures below 28 degrees, but a proud one.

Earlier that morning I read about the Commission on Audit (COA) being on a roll, picking on local government units whose officials they found to be less careful (note that I didn’t say negligent, away from home I am at my Christian best) with public money.

I applaud the COA. Local officials grumble about the commission being good at nothing except at finding fault. But that is precisely an audit’s reason for being: to find faults or exceptions. Ask any auditor in government or in private practice.

They’re not there poring over financial books and records of transactions to determine who is/are deserving of a trophy for the most compliant with government spending rules and regulations. If public officials want a pat on the back for hurdling an audit “with flying colors,” they have to seek it elsewhere.

Be that as it may, there is an area that the COA should look into for balance. As far as I can remember, the agency has not even once called out a government office for failing to pay suppliers, contractors and non-tenured workers on time. Why? Is it ideal government spending practice to renege in the payment of just and legitimate obligations?

In Cebu City, I don’t think there is any administration that can claim to have always paid their job order employees promptly. In many instances, these workers had to wait for six months before they were finally paid. By then, they were already buried in debt. What have they done to deserve maltreatment?

Promoting social justice may not be an express COA mandate under the constitution but ensuring good governance is, and if the two should meet, if the COA should make them meet, it would be beautiful.

As for contractors and suppliers, in many instances the government appears so intent in driving them bankrupt, you’d think it is an official policy. I used to run a small shop that made sports uniforms in the late seventies. One summer, City Hall ordered basketball and other uniforms. We finished them in time for their tournament but we were not paid for so long, I decided to close shop.

The failure to pay obligations promptly is what drives businessmen to charge the government more than they do other customers. They have to recover the cost of money. Many others go even farther: they refuse to do business with the government.

What is concerning about this is that it opens opportunities for corruption. The cost of money that drives overpricing may be made to include commissions to employees or officials to assure faster payment. It also narrows down the field of contractors to those who have deeper pockets although with inferior competence or experience.

All that we’re asking is for the COA to categorically declare that the practice of not paying government’s debts on time is as criminal, anomalous and irregular as incurring them without observing procurement protocols. After that, let the appropriate government agencies, on their own or by a complaint, take over.

Maybe in the next audit cycle, please?

RICO and Giove May Cortina have been together for almost 25 years now but never got the chance to get married.

In an interview Thursday, July 27, 2023, the couple said they never got a chance to have a wedding ceremony since they prioritize their children's studies and needs.

Rico and Giove May were among the 54 couples who availed themselves of the Mandaue City Government’s mass wedding program on July 27, 2023.

They said they met when they were teens. Giove May was 16 years old then, while Rico was 20.

Asked about their secret for a long lasting relationship, the couple said “understanding each other” is what helped them survive their relationship.

“Mosabot ra siya sa akong kamaldita (He understands my bad attitude),” said Giove May.

Another couple, Jail Officer 1 Mave Ledesma Sarabosing, 25, and Patrolman Arnel Sarabosing, 29, said they were happy to finally get the chance to have a wedding ceremony.

They thanked Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes for spearheading the “Kasalan ng Bayan” of the City Government.

Ledesma and Sarabosing said they met during their board exams and they have been together for three years now.

Cortes, members of the Mandaue City Council and department heads of City Hall led Thursday’s mass wedding.

Cortes advised the newlyweds to always love each other even in difficult times. 'A happy wife, a happy life,' he said.

The couples were also given wedding cakes and rings, among others.

Cortes said he will make sure that there will be a mass wedding every year. (Cherry Ann Virador, Benedicto College intern)

AT LEAST three persons, including an American national, were arrested when the authorities raided a drug den in Purok 4, Barangay Manga, Tagbilaran City, Bohol at around 7:40 p.m. on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.

The suspects were identified as Esrom Jenkins alias AJ, 42, an American national and alleged drug den maintainer, Jude Benis Bantog, 42, the operation’s target and fisherman from barangay Ubujan in the same city, and April Valiente Ighot, 28, a drug den visitor and fisherman from Barangay Ubujan.

The raid was conducted by the operatives of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA 7), Bohol Police Provincial Office and Tagbilaran City Police Station.

Seized from the suspects were 15 packs of alleged shabu weighing 15 grams with a standard drug price of P102,000, buy-bust money, identification cards and drug paraphernalia.

The American national allegedly rented an apartment in Barangay Manga, which he allegedly used as a hideout with other drug users, according to PDEA 7 information officer Leia Alcantara.

After learning about Jenkins and Bantog's unlawful drug-related conduct from their source, they subjected them to a two-week case buildup.

Alcantara claimed that they also learned that the American national had been residing in the apartment for seven months, despite the fact that he had been residing in Bohol for eight years and had been moving from one place to another.

The suspects are being held at the Tagbilaran City Police Station, while charges in violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 have been filed against them.(AYB, TPT)

RMA Cargo Logistics offers its Direct Consolidation Service, aimed at simplifying and streamlining the process of importing goods from China to Cebu for local business owners.

This service marks a significant milestone in the company's commitment to facilitating international trade and empowering local businesses to thrive in the global market.

Importing goods from China has long been a crucial aspect of Cebu's business landscape, providing an avenue for entrepreneurs to access high-quality products and cater to the diverse needs of the Philippine market. However, the logistics involved in importing can often be complex, time-consuming, and costly, posing challenges to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking to expand their operations.

This service enables local business owners to consolidate their shipments from various suppliers in China, efficiently managing freight, and significantly reducing shipping costs and transit times.

The key features of RMA Cargo Logistics' Direct Consolidation Service include:

Efficient Shipment Management: Through meticulous planning and strategic coordination, RMA Cargo Logistics ensures the proper monitoring and coordinating of shipments from different suppliers in China, optimizing the efficiency of the entire logistics process.

Cost Savings: Through our direct consolidation service from China to Cebu, import businesses can now benefit from reduced shipping costs, making it more economically viable to import goods and expand their product offerings.

Timely Delivery: The streamlined process enables faster transit times, ensuring that business owners receive their shipments promptly, enabling them to restock inventories or launch new products with greater agility.

Customized Solutions: RMA Cargo Logistics offers personalized consolidation plans, tailored to meet the specific needs of each business, ensuring a seamless experience and fostering long-term partnerships.

Romel Aropo, CEO and President of RMA Group of Companies, expressed his enthusiasm for this service, saying: 'Our Direct Consolidation Service is a game-changer for local businesses in Cebu. We understand the challenges they face in importing goods from China, and our goal is to simplify the process, making it cost-effective, reliable, and hassle-free. This service is a testament to our commitment to supporting the growth of Cebu's business community.'

RMA Cargo Logistics reaffirms its position as an industry leader for 22 years now, continuously innovating to meet the ever-evolving needs of its customers. As the logistics landscape continues to evolve, RMA Cargo Logistics remains steadfast in its mission to provide solutions that empower local businesses and contribute to the overall growth of Cebu's economy.

For more information about RMA Cargo Logistics and their Consolidation Service, please visit https://www.facebook.com/rmacargo or Viber them at +63 921 237 2678. (PR)

THE Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex transformed its stadium into a magnificent venue for mass wedding that saw 54 couples exchanging their “I dos” on Thursday, July 27, 2023.

Dubbed “Mandaue Nuptials,” the mass wedding was held as part of the city’s celebration of its 54th City's Charter Anniversary on August 1.

There were originally 55 couples who registered for the mass wedding, but one pair failed to show up during the ceremony Thursday.

The mass wedding was organized by the City Government for couples who have long been in a relationship but do not have the means to have their own weddings.

'Tinuod gyud noh atong gihatagan og importansya ang panaghiusa sa couples...there is no such thing as a perfect marriage, hinaot nga ilang palawman ang ilang pag sinabtanay,' said Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes during the ceremony.

(It is true that we should give importance to the union of couples...there is no such thing as a perfect marriage; hopefully, they will deepen theirs with understanding.)

Aside from the free venue and food, the Mandaue City Government also gave each couple cake and wine, along with a bag of rice and a new chopping board as gifts.

The mass wedding will be one of Mandaue City's annual activities for its Charter Day.

'Ato na gyud siguraduhon noh nga kada tuig duna na gyud ta'y mass wedding nga ipahigayon for Charter Day,' said Cortes.

(We will make sure that we will have a mass wedding every year during our city's Charter Day.) (Chrys Chelsea Bernales, UP Cebu Intern)

A MOTORCYCLE-for-hire (habal-habal) driver was in critical condition after he was shot multiple times in Sitio Binabag, Barangay Estaca, Compostela town, northern Cebu past midnight on Thursday, July 27, 2023.

The victim was identified as Ruben Cano Mahinay, 53, single, from Barangay Tamiao of the said municipality.

He was rushed to a hospital in Danao City, but was later transferred to the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) in Cebu City for further treatment.

Patrolman Renan Relampagos of the Compostela Police Station told SunStar Cebu that the victim was delivering a passenger when an unidentified person approached him and shot him five times.

The lone shooter fled after the victim collapsed to the ground.

The police are still determining the motive of the crime.(GPL, TPT)

PRIVATE companies in Central Visayas were encouraged to set up lactation stations for working moms as the country celebrates the National Nutrition Month with the theme “Healthy Diet Gawing Affordable for All.”

In a Zoom interview with SunStar's Beyond the Headlines, Norre Jean Delos Santos, nutrition officer of Nutritional Councilor-Central Visayas, said providing lactation tations for working mothers is under a provision of Republic Act 10028 or 'Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009.'

The law states that companies must provide private, clean, sanitary and well-ventilated room or areas in the workplace or public places where nursing mothers can wash up, breast feed, or express their milk comfortably and store it afterward.

Delos Santos said this law has been adopted in Cebu's public places such as malls with the backing of regional policies, making sure it was imposed.

'Asking our members of the regional nutrition committee to monitor, support and encourage companies. Kita naas government mao ang mag una para mosunod ning mga private sector,' Delos Santos said.

(Asking our members of the regional nutrition committee to monitor, support and encourage companies. We in the government should spearhead the implementation so that the private sectors will follow.)

Breastfeeding is the first line of defense and protection for babies. It lowers the risks against short- and long-term diseases.

A mother of four, Jeanelyn Condino, 36, said breastfeeding in public was a struggle for her, as her four children were breastfed.

She said that whenever they travel, she always look for a place for lactation as she needs to breastfeed her baby, but there was not enough or adequate place for it.

Condino hopes that more accessible lactation stations will be added in public places for the privacy of the mothers and their babies.

SunStar Cebu has reached out to the Department of Labor and Employment to determine the number of companies that may have implemented the law, but is still awaiting response as of this posting Thursday afternoon, July 27, 2023. (Erica Abella, CNU intern)

THE Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) has declared the man in the photo that they recently shared online as the person of interest (POI) in the brutal murder of Rhea Mae Tocmo after a witness came forward to confirm his identification.

According to CCPO Chief Colonel Ireneo Dalogdog, the purpose of the call is to identify the individual in the photo in order to shed light on the ongoing police investigation and solve the death of Tocmo.

A native of Jasaan town in Misamis Oriental, the 19-year-old Tocmo was found dead and wrapped inside a cardboard box left on the roadside in Sitio Mohon, Barangay Tisa, Cebu City on July 17, 2023.

She arrived in Cebu last June 11 to find a job.

Dalogdog revealed that the POI sold the victim's cell phone at a store in the downtown area.

Two days after purchasing the item, the buyer, who requested anonymity, accessed the mobile phone's gallery and discovered Rhea Mae's photos, whose images he had previously seen on social media and who had been murdered and dumped in Tisa.

He then went to the Labangon police station to turn over the cellphone and gave information about the seller.

The buyer claimed that the POI first went to a shop in the Carbon area to have the victim's phone unlocked but was charged P800, which he felt to be extremely expensive, leading him to decide to sell the phone to the buyer for P2,500, but the latter asked to reduce the price to P1,700, which the former agreed.

According to the buyer, the POI initially went to a store in the Carbon area to have the victim's phone unlocked, but was charged P800, which he found to be very expensive, prompting him to decide to sell the phone to the buyer for P2,500.

However, the buyer later requested a price reduction to P1,700, to which the POI consented.

'Ang unang gi attempt niya is iyahang ipa-unlock kasi naka lock ang cellphone eh, so nangutana pilay bayad niingon man nga P800 wala guro siyay ikabayad niadto siya sa usa pero mao gihapon ang bayad up to the point nga ni-decide siya nga ibaligya sa P2,500 nya gihangyo sad siya og P1,700 mao to gibaligya nalang gyud niya. after two days anha pa na discover sa buyer na ang kato diay nga cellphone mao diay to ang gipanag-iya sa biktima nga si Rhea Mae Tocmo,' Dalogdog said.

(He first wanted to unlock the cellphone and was told the payment is P800, but since he may not have had money to pay, he tried another one but he was charged the same amount up to the point that he decided to sell it for P2,500, which was reduced to P1,700. The buyer learned that the phone belonged to the victim, Rhea Mae Tocmo, after two days).

The mobile phone is now in the custody of the PNP Forensic Unit 7 and it is scheduled to be submitted to the PNP Cybercrime Unit-7.

Dalogdog advised the public to inform them right away if they have knowledge on the POI.(AYB, TPT)

THREE residents of Lapu-Lapu City received P10,000 cash each for submitting themselves to a free circumcision despite their age.

The recipients, ages 22, 25, and 28, got circumcised along with 927 others at Hoopsdome, Lapu-Lapu City on Thursday, July 27, 2023.

They volunteered to be circumcised after Mayor Junard Chan posted on Facebook that he will give a P10,000 bonus to any 20-year-old and above individuals who will take part in the circumcision program.

'P10,000 bonus sa kadtong magpatuli nga 20 pataas ang edad. Walay apo ni Lapu-Lapu nga pisot,' said Chan in his Facebook post.

(P10,000 bonus for 20 years old and above who will get circumcised. Lapu-Lapu has no uncircumcised grandsons.)

The circumcision program started on July 26 and will run for three days.

The recipients also received free medicines, free ice cream, and free food.

Chan encouraged his constituents who are unable to attend to register for the next day.

He said they will conduct the circumcision from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. until July 28.

The City Government relaunched this “Libreng Tuli” program to accommodate and correspond to the children's needs.

To benefit, the registrant must be a Lapu-Lapu City resident, 7 years old and above, and should complete the pre-registration at the Barangay Health Centers to secure a slot.

Circumcision is the surgical process of removing the skin covering the tip of the male organ. In the Philippines, circumcision is seen as the boys’ rite of passage to adulthood, and health experts have been recommending it for boys due to its health benefits. (GK Marie Dejacto, CNU intern)

PREPARE for the upcoming school year with a hassle-free shopping experience at Robinsons Department Store. Offering an exclusive two-month promotion filled with enticing offers, discounts, and freebies, Robinsons Department Store is your go-to destination for all your back-to-school needs.

Discover a wide range of school items for up to 70 percent off. From uniforms and undergarments to trendy clothing lines, shoes, bags, food containers, school supplies, accessories, personal care products, and beauty items, Robinsons has everything your children need. Even high school and college students can take advantage of amazing deals on their favorite brands.

From July 15 to 31, 2023, receive a FREE lunch bag with every single-receipt purchase of P5,000 or more at any of the 51 Robinsons Department Store branches nationwide. This handy accessory will keep your little one's meals fresh and exciting throughout the school day.

Robinsons Department Store understands your budgeting needs. With a minimum single-receipt purchase of P3,000 and P5,000, enjoy the convenience of paying up to three months and six months later at zero percent interest. These flexible payment schemes are available from July 1 to August 31, in partnership with these participating banks: Bank of Commerce, BDO, BPI, Metrobank, PNB, RCBC, and Security Bank.

Exclusive rewards also await BPI Credit Cardholders! Make a minimum single-receipt straight payment of P5,000, and receive FREE P300 gift certificates. For a minimum single-receipt installment payment of P10,000, enjoy FREE P500 gift certificates.

Avail all these exciting offers, discounts, and freebies at any Robinsons Department Store near you. You can also shop online via GoCart, LazMall, and Shopee Mall. Enjoy the convenience of browsing and purchasing your back-to-school essentials with just a few clicks.

Make the most of your back-to-school shopping at Robinsons Department Store. With unbeatable offers, incredible discounts, and enticing freebies, you'll find everything you need to kick start the new academic year. Hurry and seize these amazing deals before August 31. Get ready for an exciting shopping adventure at Robinsons Department Store and set your children up for a successful school year! (SPONSORED CONTENT)

THE civil union that was supposed to take place in Carcar City on Wednesday, July 26, 2023 but was postponed because the marriage officiant was unavailable will now take place on August 1.

On the eve of the planned wedding, the mayor's secretary notified Lee Claire Cabo and her fiancé Paul Patrick Barawigan that the event had to be postponed because the marriage celebrant, Carcar City Mayor Patrick Barcenas, was still in Manila.

Due to this, the couple posted online about their disappointment, which later became viral.

Cabo claimed that they had already spent money for their clothes, food, rented a videoke machine, and invited their family and friends just to be informed that there would be no wedding.

Cabo said that their costs might have been high had they ordered a roasted pig.

“Sa pagkahibawo gyud nako ato nihilak gyud ko sir kay na-andam na baya tanan among besti, mga bisita naingnan na, ang kasal nalang gyud ang kulang,” matod ni Cabo.

(When I found out, sir, I really cried because all our clothes are readied, the guests have already been told, the only thing missing is the wedding).

The couple have been living together for eight years.

When Mayor Barcenas learned about the incident, he immediately called Cabo to apologize on Thursday, July 27.

He also promised to give the couple a roasted pig and attend their wedding reception.(BBT, TPT)

FOR nearly four years, the on-demand delivery platform Lalamove has been a reliable delivery partner for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and non-corporate users on the island of Cebu.

With its fast, simple, and affordable delivery solutions and technologies, Lalamove has provided credible service to thousands of Cebuanos.

Kicking things up a notch in the island’s logistics scene, Lalamove brings its users the most comprehensive delivery coverage in Cebu, encompassing the entire island, for those who need reliable and affordable services for their bulk business delivery needs and shipments.

Keeping the promise of prompt and hassle-free deliveries, the island-wide coverage of truck deliveries is now serviceable to more than 20 areas in Cebu including Argao, Boljoon, Oslob, and Santander.

This is in addition to Balamban, Carcar, Cebu City, Consolacion, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, Compostela, Liloan, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Naga, Pinamujangan, San Fernando, Talisay, Toledo, Cordova, Bogo, and Daanbantayan.

As several businesses continue to reach more Cebuanos, Lalamove sustains in offering a wide range of options to entrepreneurs with cost-efficient and extensive delivery services, which include motorcycle, sedan, MPV, and truck deliveries for businesses that need to transport bulk orders and large items.

Here are three reasons why Cebuano businesses should book Lalamove's 4-wheeler to 6-wheeler truck delivery services.

Island-wide delivery services

Since launching its services in Cebu in 2018, Lalamove has continuously expanded its operations across the island. It now operates and fulfills same-day deliveries in all 16 towns and cities in the province.

This includes Balamban, Carcar, Cebu City, Compostela, Consolacion, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, Liloan, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Naga, Pinamungajan, San Fernando, Talisay, Toledo, and Cordova. It also accepts inter-island deliveries.

Newly launched vehicle options in Cebu to suit any business

Lalamove has various vehicle options to cater to every business’ needs, whether perishable goods, heavy equipment, or large furniture.

Their fleet of small and big haulers include 600 kilograms (kg) muticab, 800 kg, and 2,000 kg pickup trucks, 1,000 kg, 2,000 kg aluminum trucks, as well as newly-launched 800kg pick-up vehicles, 6-wheel 3,000 closed van trucks and 7,000 kg forward trucks, and a soon-to-be-launched 2,000 kg pick-up truck.

Affordable services to empower MSMEs

Lalamove offers low and unparalleled rates for its delivery services with base fares as low as P200 for pickup trucks, P280 for L300, P1,450 for 2,000kg aluminum trucks, and P1,900 to P4,800 for 6-wheel trucks. This gives businesses an edge by helping them save on costs while still fulfilling orders promptly and carefully.

“Lalamove’s commitment to supporting and elevating business services and operations never stops. Our continuous expansion and vast fleet option provisions show the on-demand delivery service platform’s dedication to progress and bringing MSMEs alongside the journey with us,” said Lalamove Philippines’ Managing Director, Djon Nacario.

Move your business with Lalamove’s affordable truck delivery services.

To learn more and sign up as a business partner, email [email protected] or contact 255-5252. For more information and updates visit www.lalamove.com/en-ph/,download the Lalamove app, or follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. (SPONSORED CONTENT)

THE NEW Nissan Almera has everything you want in a sedan: cutting-edge style combined with innovative technology.

You can now start its engine from afar using your mobile phone and have immediate assistance in case of an emergency by just pressing an SOS button.

With the Almera’s latest technology, you can do a lot of things!

The New Nissan Almera now comes with “NissanConnect” Services—a new way to stay connected to your vehicle through your mobile phone, offering excitement and seamless connectivity that enables you to access some of its integrated features—a first in the market for subcompact sedans.

A three-year subscription to NissanConnect Services worth P30,000 is included with every purchase of the Almera VL variant.

NissanConnect Services allow you to start your car and even get the air-conditioning running with the Remote Engine Start/Stop feature, so it’s cool when you enter the cabin. Not sure if you locked your car? The Remote Lock/Unlock feature lets you conveniently double-check through your phone. But if your car gets broken into, Theft Alert will notify you whenever it detects any forced entry. In case of a collision or when the airbags deploy, the Almera's integrated emergency services can get you immediate assistance through features such as Automatic Collision Notification or the SOS Emergency Call Button.

The NissanConnect Services app also allows you to monitor your vehicle's health and reminds you of maintenance appointments.

On top of those, the New Nissan Almera also comes with the best of Nissan Intelligent Mobility like the Intelligent Around View Monitor with

Moving Object Detection, while adding new class-leading features such as Lane Departure Warning* and High Beam Assist* for a safer and more confident drive. Never run out of juice for your gadgets as it comes with a wireless charging pad** for added convenience.

With great technology comes great style. The New Nissan Almera updates its look with newly designed front and rear fascias, a new 16” alloy wheel design, and black leather interiors with dark blue contrast stitching. And to top it all off, it even comes with a Nissan 5-year warranty to give you peace of mind and convenience.

Elevate your drive with the latest in cutting-edge tech, wrapped in a stylish exterior. Experience a sedan that’s truly engineered for excitement: the New Nissan Almera.

Know more about the Almera here: www.nissan.ph/almera (SPONSORED CONTENT)

A PRIMARY health care facility with a 150-bed capacity is set to be constructed on a 6,000 square meter lot in Barangay Poblacion, City of Naga, southern Cebu by the end of 2024.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the facility was held on Thursday, July 27, 2023 at the Naga City Reclamation Area.

Mayor Valdemar Chiong told SunStar Cebu on July 27 that the facility’s projected cost would be P350 million.

Chiong said that the total budget for the new health center has been approved through a loan by the Development Bank of the Philippines.

He explained that this new facility is expected to provide improved healthcare services to the city’s constituents.

Chiong said that the office of Senator Francis Tolentino had also transferred P50 million through theC Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to begin the first phase of the construction.

The mayor did not give any comments when asked about the medical care that the new institution will offer to the residents.

He emphasized that the city is currently focusing on the construction of the facility.

Although the clinic would accept patients from nearby municipalities, Chiong said locals will be given preference. (AML, TPT)