Cebu Sun.Star

THE Petro Gazz Angels battle Choco Mucho, looking to bolster their pursuit of the first semis ticket in Pool B of the Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Saturday, July 15, 2023.

After losing to Cignal last June 27, the Angels have racked up three wins in a row, including an incredible 20-25, 25-22, 25-12, 33-35, 15-9 victory over fellow semis contender and erstwhile unbeaten F2 Logistics Cargo Movers last Thursday.

With the HD Spikers dispatching the Farm Fresh Foxies in three, Petro Gazz, F2 Logistics and Cignal found themselves locked at 3-1 with Choco Mucho making it a four-way battle for the two berths with a 2-1 slate.

A victory by the Angels, however, will get them a spot in the next phase, a carry-over round, making the encounter so crucial for both teams. But a reversal will put Choco Mucho in a tie instead with the idle F2 Logistics and Cignal, jeopardizing the Angels’ semis bid in the mid-season conference of the league.

Cebuanas Grethcel Soltones and Sisi Rondina will square off in this marquee match-up.

Soltones came away with a career-best 31-point explosion, including key hits in the decider to anchor the Angels’ triumph over the Cargo Movers.

But Rondina is likewise playing in a zone. Despite their loss to F2 Logistics, the former UST hitter’s energy and leadership have inspired the rest and made the Flying Titans a clear semis contender. (JNP)

THREE regular white taxis and one yellow taxi have been impounded for violating their franchise conditions after the Land Transportation Office-Central Visayas (LTO 7) personnel caught them in the act of price contracting and picking up passengers outside the airport.

The LTO 7 Operations Division headed by Aden Belza said that three regular taxis were caught offering price contracting to passengers in the port in Cebu City, violating the provision of their franchise.

One yellow taxi was caught picking up passengers outside the airport. All these incidents happened on Friday, July 14, 2023.

As per the initial assessment of the LTO 7, all four will face a fine of P120,000 each, all units will be impounded for three months, and the drivers have been issued temporary operator's permit (TOP).

LTO 7 officer-in-charge (OIC) Regional Director Glen Galario has been firm in his priority campaign against colorum in the region.

Galario has instructed his law enforcement arm to go after the colorum operations of both motorcycles and motor vehicles in Central Visayas.

Galario stressed that one of the agency’s mandates is to ensure the compliance of every motorist on the existing laws relative to land transportation for the riding public and other road users to have a safer journey.

"We have been doing random roadside inspections and making sure that our taxi drivers are compliant. Our operations division is on top of this campaign as we continue to strictly implement this drive to eliminate any kinds of illegal activities present on our roads, especially the colorums. I have instructed them to do random roadside inspections to catch these culprits,” he said.

He added that LTO 7’s law enforcement will continue to implement “Oplan Isnabero,” or the crackdown against erring taxi drivers who refuse to render service to passengers in the strategic areas in the regions such as the ports.

“One of our focus areas is the ports, we have received reports and even experienced erring taxi drivers that refuse to give service because they want to contract passenger fares which is a violation of the JAO 2014-01,” he said.

Galario revealed that he had experienced having been denied such service. “For the public to trust the office, they should see that we are working for the people and implementing existing rules without favor.”

Under the Joint Administrative Order (JAO) 2014-01, “Refusal to render service to the public or convey passengers to destination” will result in a penalty and possible cancellation of their Certificate of Public Conveyance. (PR)

SOME residents of Barangay Basak Pardo have called for help due to a “never ending” problem on flooding, especially during heavy rainfall.

A resident, who asked not to be named, approached SunStar Cebu on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, to report that they have been enduring the flooding for several years.

Eleuterio Reqinto, 58, another resident in Sitio Fatima, Barangay Basak, Pardo, took the lead in initiating a weekly clean-up drive to somehow prevent flooding in the area.

“Ikapila na mi gapangayo og tabang sa taga barangay ani. Ikadaghan na jud pero wala ra silay action gihimo, igo ra mag kodak-kodak diha,” Eleuterio said.

(We have asked for help from the barangay, but they have not taken action, aside from taking photos of the situation.)

Another resident who refused to be named said: “Ang kanang kapitan diha sa barangay wa ra nay lihok, maski ikapila na mi diri nangayo og tabang, wala jud.”

(The barangay captain has not done anything no matter how many times we have asked for help.)

SunStar tried to contact Basak Pardo Barangay Captain Catalina Cabardo on Friday, July 14, but she could not be reached for comment on the allegations.

The area affected by flooding are Sitio Fatima, Japper 1 and Sitio Tangkongan 2.

These areas are flooded easily even during light rainfall and residents said it usually takes four to five days, or even a week, for the water to subside.

“Taga hawak gani ang tubig diari usahay. Baho pa jud kaayong canal and baha madugayan,” Eleuterio said.

(The water level here sometimes is waist-deep and the stench from the canal is so bad.)

“Grabe nangasakit na lang gani ni ang uban nga nipuyo diri. Gipang dengue, ang uban namatay tungod sa dengue. Gipangagod na lang gani mi diri tanan halos tungod aning tubig ug naa pod gani nay bedridden diha nga gipasaka na lang namo maski ari unta na siya sa ubos para dili maglisod,” he added.

(Some people who live here have gotten sick; some got dengue fever. Some also got Athlete’s Foot and we even need to transfer a bedridden resident upstairs due to the flooding.)

“Mao ni nga rason nga nangayo mi og tabang sa barangay nga ang mga kanal tarongon aron ang mga tubig dili mag pundo,” Eleuterio said.

(This is the reason why we sought help from the barangay in fixing the drainage system so that the water will not be stuck.) (Angel Leduna, CNU intern)

SOME members of the LGBTQ+ in Cebu found the “Ama Namin” drag performance of Pura Luka Vega as offensive and blasphemous.

In a tweet, drag queen Pura Luka Vega showed a video where he was performing as Jesus Christ, singing along with other people a remix of “Ama Namin” (The Lord’s Prayer), on July 10, 2023.

Emjee, who refused to give his full name, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, said it is not the song that lost its dignity, but the doer who mocked it.

“It is clearly offensive for the Catholics knowing that someone we adore and worship became an icon for entertainment,” said Emjee from Talisay City, Cebu.

“Blasphemy naman sya to consider kay bugal-bugal naman to (It was already considered blasphemy because the act was mockery). Wala naman niya giimitate or giemulate ang God figure ni Jesus (He was no longer imitating or emulating the God figure of Jesus),) he added.

Emjee also stressed that there was always a better way to entertain people without hurting the religious feelings or making fun of their beliefs.

Another member of the community from Dalaguete, Cebu who asked not to be named said every religious aspect should be respected and valued, and Vega’s action is an example of why LGBTQ+ does not deserve the Sogie bill.

The Sogie bill aims to end gender-based discrimination by penalizing people who discriminate people due to their Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Expression (Sogie).

“It is critical to handle such performances with sensitivity and respect, as they can be contentious and may upset certain people with religious views,” he said.

Choky Repollo from Naga, Cebu, a church server, said he was saddened to hear what happened.

He said giving respect to the beliefs of Catholics and other religions is simple and “common sense.”

“Is it necessary to be perfect for you to give respect to holy things not only to Catholics but also other religions?” he said.

Calyxto, not his real name, said he felt insulted because it was losing the sacredness and the value of the Lord’s Prayer.

“I think this is too much nga kani siya is part of freedom of expression, naa na siya below the belt (I think it’s too much that even this (Vega’s impersonation of Jesus) is part of freedom of expression, it’s already below the belt),” he said.

“Whether the intention is good or bad, since nanobra naman, so sayop gyud sya (Whether the intention is good or bad, since it’s too much, it is wrong),” he added.

Franco Francisco, a worship committee head in District II, questioned how people currently interact with the Lord and if they even understand the fundamentals of the Catholic faith.

"The community has been longing for others to respect our sexuality, yet in this case, we are the ones who are not respecting others' beliefs. The longer this is tolerated, the more people are unaware of our beliefs and respect," he said.

"As a catholic and a drag fan, I was disappointed and saddened to know that he used the image of Christ in the art form of drag. A reminder that anything can be a kind of art or drag, but we must consider our boundaries," he added.

Vega, in a tweet on July 13, 2023, said that he understands the perspectives of people on his performance.

“However, they shouldn’t tell me how I practice my faith or how I do my drag. That performance was not for you to begin with. It is my experience and my expression, of having been denied my rights,” Vega said. (GK Marie Dejacto, CNU Intern)

CEBU Governor Gwendolyn Garcia is asking the candidates for Pasigarbo sa Sugbo’s festival queen competition to limit their outfit to only five kilograms or less.

This came about as a result of observations that costume bearers found it difficult to dance and move around due of the weight of their costumes.

During a meeting with the mayors, choreographers, and provincial tourism officers at the Capitol on Thursday, July 13, 2023, Cebu Fifth District Board Member Andrei "Red" Duterte, chairman of the Committee on Tourism, said festival queen candidates often get weak easily and may even collapse because of their heavy attire.

Because of this, Garcia mandated that contestants for the festival queen competition and their costumes be weighed at the opening of One Cebu Expo.

"During the opening, i-weigh nato ang mga candidates so kahibaw nata unsay normal weight... you cannot add more than five kilos or 10 pounds," Garcia said on Thursday.

The candidates' frequently worn outfits are positioned with a steel rod so that the decorations are sturdy and not easily damaged.

Garcia advised the designers to use bamboo instead of a steel rod to make it lighter.

"Kana man gud uban ninyo design kabilya man gud inyo ibutang, karon mangita namo sa mga lightweight materials. Mag design man gud mo wala mo nag huna-huna sa nagdala, naghuna-huna mo sa pinakabongga. That affects your festival queen, so kung ato ning ma limit and sigurado nga i-limit. This is a challenge for you to look for more lightweight materials...kawayan ibutang," the governor said.

(Some of you used steel bars in your designs; now you look for lighter materials. When making a design, you don’t think of the wearer, but only its awesomeness. That affects your festival queen, so if we can limit and definitely limit it. This is a challenge for you to look for more lightweight materials like bamboo.)

In line with its desire to level up this year’s presentation, the Capitol will give a P2 million subsidy to every participating contingent from mainland Cebu and P2.5 million for those from surrounding islands.

The Pasigarbo Street Dancing and Grand Showdown Competition will showcase the different delicacies and tourist sites of the province.

Around 50 contingents coming from the different local government units in Cebu will join the event, which will be held on August 27 in Carcar City, southern Cebu. (ANV/TPT)

A MALL janitress in South Road Properties in Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City was detained after she was discovered stealing money from the donation box located at the supermarket section.

The event took place at 5:45 p.m. Thursday, July 13.

The suspect was identified as Christine Mae Tumamak, a 36-year-old single mother and MIMS Agency employee, who hails from Tabango, Leyte but currently staying in Barangay Pit-os, Cebu City.

Grevir Buyoc Ocubillo, a mall representative, said that the suspect entered the restroom after getting the money amounting P6,170 from the donation box.

But she was intercepted by a female guard who witnessed what she did.

Tumamak was turned over to Mambaling Police Station.

The money was also recovered from her possession. (AYB/TPT)

OVER 70 residents of Lapu-Lapu City have volunteered to donate blood during the bloodletting activity conducted by the Philippine Seven Corporation (7-Eleven), in partnership with the Lapu-Lapu City Government, Subnational Blood Center for Visayas, and National Voluntary Blood Services Program, on Friday, July 14, 2023.

Most of the donors were aged 24 to 50 years old, although people as young as 16 were allowed to donate blood as long as they have their parent’s consent.

Delsie Dungog Salgado, Nurse II and a blood coordinator from Lapu-Lapu City Health, said the activity Friday aimed to gather 300 donors.

“We can help people who need blood. We do not only celebrate the 7-Eleven Day but we give importance to life,” she said in the vernacular.

She added that personnel from the Department of Health (DOH) collected and processed the blood, while the Philippine Red Cross was also involved.

Dr. Mar Carlo Alcontin, Medical Officer III from the DOH, stressed the importance of the activity, saying: “Kumbaga sa atong mga pamilya, patients or individuals na nanginahanglan og dogo, naa tay pundo aron sad makahatag ta dayon.”

(For our families, patients or individuals who need blood, we can easily give blood as we have stocks.)

“One bag of blood can save three lives,” said Melvin Ygoña, regional HR generalist.

He said 7-Eleven is the primary sponsor of the event as part of its nationwide anniversary celebration.

“Nag hatod ra man unta ko sa akong bata diri sa basketball court unya nakakita man ko ani, ni try ko og pa screening nya naka pasar, maong nag pa kuha na lang ko,” said Filomeno Tumabiene, a resident of Barangay Babag 2.

(I was just sending my child here at the basketball court and then I saw the activity. I tried and passed the screening, so I donated blood.)

He added that he can help save lives by participating in the activity. He hoped that the bloodletting activity will continue in the future.

A teenager, who asked not to be named, said: “Nalipay ko na naka donate ko. Kana bitaw na feeling na mo uli ka na satisfied.”

(I am happy that I donated blood. You know that feeling of satisfaction.)

The bloodletting activity will also be held in Olango Island on July 21, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Organizers said the donor must have enough sleep for at least six hours or more, must not take antibiotics within the week, and must be weighing 50 kilograms or above. (Judie Liza Alantoson, CNU Intern)

TWELVE of the 101 dogs that were rescued from an abandoned house in the mountain barangay of Adlaon in Cebu City have survived, said the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries on Friday, July 14, 2023.

Dr. Jessica Maribojoc, head of DVMF, said that eight of the 12 dogs were already adopted by some residents, while the remaining four are also candidates for adoption.

“Naa pay upat (dogs) nahabilin. Ang duha is adoptable na gyud ni sila kay nalahi man to sila. So hangtud sa naay mu-adopt, it’s up to them na gyud kung maka survive sila or dili,” she said.

(There are four (dogs) left, two of them are adoptable because they were separated. So until someone adopts, it's really up to them if they can survive or not. )

She stressed that two of the four dogs will be placed under observation.

“With regard sa duha (dogs), adto na namo siya gi insert sa atong rehab (rehabilitation). If di gihapon sila muduol sa atong mga caretakers, nya based sa atong assessment, of course, possible nga candidate pud sila for euthanasia,” Maribojoc said.

(With regard to the two (dogs), we have already included them in our rehabilitation. If they still do not approach our caretakers, based on our assessment, of course, it is possible that they are also candidates for euthanasia.)

It was reported in June this year that 29 dogs had passed away naturally, while the remaining were candidates for euthanasia.

Maribojoc said she is hoping that the remaining four dogs will survive until they will be fit for adoption.

She assured that the case against the couple who abandoned the animals was already processed and they are just waiting for the decision from the prosecutor's office.

The couple, Lorna Oberes and her partner Edwin Casas, and their unidentified caretakers were charged before the prosecutor’s office for allegedly committing cruel acts against animals. (Kimberly Goc-ong, CNU Intern)

THE bodies of two minors who vanished on Thursday, July 13, 2023, while swimming off Barangay Panadtaran in San Fernando town, southern Cebu, were found early on Friday, July 14.

Jozel Apao, 13, and Frances Ramayrat, 16, both residents of Barangay Tungo in the said municipality, were identified as the victims.

They were discovered floating near the area where they swam.

According to Rommel Pinatil, head of the San Fernando Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (SFDRRMO), they received reports about the drowning incident past noon on Thursday.

Pinatil said the fishermen were already searching for the victims when they arrived at the area past 1 p.m.

The members of the Bureau of Fire, Coast Guard and Bantay Dagat and barangay tanods also helped in the search and rescue effort, which had to be stopped around 6 p.m. due to big waves and murky waters.

Jozel's mother, Michelle Apao, complained that the rescue team lacked equipment when they got to the scene.

She said one of the members of SFDRRMO even told her to go to the police station to report the incident even though they are the ones having the capability to contact the police using their portable radio.

The victims' families also expressed dissatisfaction with the SFDRMMO for failing to look after them while they awaited word of their sons' whereabouts throughout the search and rescue effort.

When questioned about the allegation, however, Pinatil claimed to be unaware of it and asserted that in times of emergency, they will respond immediately, carry equipment, and contact the police, firemen, barangay tanods and the members of Bantay Dagat for assistance.

He did, however, acknowledge that they, like other agencies, lack equipment, so they look for solutions to the issue so they can perform their task.

“Nanghawa mi dinhi gabii naman. Unsa may pasabot ninyo pagabihian mi ninyo dinhia? Wala naman mi mahimo kay tungod sa bawod sa dagat unya ngit-ngit sad. Dili nalang diay mi mo uli sa among balay aron magpahuway?” Pinatil answered.

(It was already night when we left here. What do you mean letting us stay here until the evening? We were powerless to act because of the big waves and then it was dark. Don't we just go home and rest?). (BBT, TPT)

NIKKI De Moura, 19, a Filipino-Brazilian model from Cagayan de Oro City in Northern Mindanao, was crowned the Miss Grand Philippines 2023 during the pageant held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay Thursday night, July 13, 2023.

De Moura bested 29 other candidates from different parts of the Philippines.

Other title holders were Herlene Budol of Angono, Rizal; Michelle Arceo of Bagumbayan, Quezon; and Francine Reyes of Tarlac City.

Budol was crowned Miss Philippines Tourism 2023, Arceo was Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas 2023, and Reyes was named Miss Eco Teen Philippines 2023.

First runner-up was Shanon Tampo of Caloocan City, and second runner-up was Charie Sergio of Caluya, Antique.

The other ladies who made it to the Top 10 were Dayanara Maurer (Pampanga, Skin Element ambassador), Rona Lalaine Lopez (Pangasinan), Aeroz Ganiban (Nueva Ecija), and Maria Gail Tobes (Northern Samar, Miss Bench Body).

De Moura, as this year’s Miss Grand Philippines, will compete for the Miss Grand International title in Vietnam on October 25, 2023.

De Moura is not new to pageantry, as before her Miss Grand Philippines stint, she was named Miss Teen Philippines 2019 at 15 years old.

The Filipino-Brazilian beauty queen also has a rich background in modeling.

She was the youngest girl at 17 who joined the SupermodelMe Revolution Season 6, which is an Asian-based modeling competition show.

Her extensive experience in modeling and pageantry became her strength and power throughout the Miss Grand Philippines 2023 pageant, as she garnered special titles, such as Miss Photogenic, Miss Bench, Skin Elements Ambassador, and Miss Philippine Airlines.

In her message, De Moura said: “Coming from Mindanao, where the stigma of no peace often characterizes our identity. I am angry. No, I am infuriated by violence and war and that is a pointless disregard to not only human life but human dignity.”

She emphasized the importance of stopping war and violence and moving forward to peace-making, peacekeeping, and peace building.

Asked what slogan she would create if given the chance to promote the Philippines, De Moura answered: “It would be to Love the Philippines. I think being a Brazilian and Filipina, makes me love both cultures, both heritage and two different traditions and so I am proud to say that I love the Philippines despite having its flaws.”

Warm greetings poured in for the newly crowned Miss Grand Philippines from her friends and family from Cagayan de Oro who described De Moura as “humble,” “goofy,” “talkative,” and “spontaneous lady.”

Budol, in the question and answer portion, used an interpreter to help her translate her answer into English.

She was asked about her take on the most urgent problem in the Filipino youth sector and how she plans to address it.

“Para sa akin, ang pinakamalubhang problema ngayon ng mga kabataan ay ang edukasyon. Dahil ang kailangan ng mga kabataan ngayon ay edukasyon para mamulat sa kinabukasan at naniniwala pa rin po ako sa kasabihan na ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan at para maging pangdayo tayo, taas noo dahil Pilipino tayo kagaya ko, maliit lang ang bansa ko pero pinagmamalaki ko,” she said.

(For me, the most serious problem facing young people today is education. Because what the young people need today is education to be aware of the future and I still believe in the saying that the youth is the hope of the motherland and for us to be able to compete in the international scene, we must be proud as Filipinos like me. My country is small but I'm proud of it.)

All of the winners in the pageant received their corresponding cash prizes, a management contract with ALV Pageant Circle, and movie deals with Octo Arts Films and ALV Films. (Erica Abella, CNU Intern)

FARMERS and suppliers from Barangay Cabadiangan, Liloan in northern Cebu can now experience faster and safer travel after the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) built a P14.9 million farm-to-market road in the area.

The newly concreted 824-meter-long road gives farmers more convenient access to transport their fresh produce to market centers in Liloan and Consolacion, as well as major cities like Cebu, Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu, the DPWH said in a statement last week.

The department cited barangay resident Ma. Sandra Dellera as saying the road has not only sped up residents' delivery of various products to buyers but also provided the barangay's students with a safer and easier route to school.

The road was built by the DPWH Cebu 5th District Engineering Office. (CTL)

SEVERAL vendors at the Carbon Market Cebu’s (CMC) interim building expressed their gratitude after a foul smell that has been bothering them for almost a week has been finally addressed by the administrator and private contractor and market developer Megawide Construction Corporation.

As of Friday morning, July 14, 2023, the septic tank has shown no signs of overflowing despite the heavy rainfall the previous days.

“Karon buntag wala na gyu’y baho, pasalamat gyud mi nga gi-mano-mano og habwa nila gabie,” said a 52-year-old lady vegetable vendor and member of the United Vendors Organization of Carbon Market (UVOC) on Friday.

(This morning, there hasn’t been a foul smell, we are thankful that they manually drained it [septic tank] last night).

She, however, requested anonymity.

In line with the problem, the Carbon market’s management wants to strictly enforce the Oplan Disiplina program by punishing the violators to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.

“Karon ra gyud na sya nahitabo na ingon ana. Kana di nila tarungon og labay ang basura mao na ilang gi-declog,” said a lady market supervisor who refused to be named.

(Instances like this just happened now. They do not properly throw their garbage, that’s why they are declogging.)

“Mao na di gyud malikayan nga naa gyu’y basura sama sa bottled water, napkin, tissue sa drainage,” she added.

(It is inevitable that there are garbage such as bottled water, sanitary pads, and tissue in the drainage.)

However, this does not prove that the garbage around the area is from the vendors of CMC, since they implement proper waste management in the interim building.

She added that garbage pick-up is being monitored from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily.

On the other hand, there has been no further damage observed in the property and Megawide has not yet released their official statement on the septic tank issue.

CMC urged everyone from the Carbon community to practice proper garbage disposal and to avoid littering in the area to maintain cleanliness.

According to CMCs official Facebook page, violators will be made to pay fines between P500 and P2,000.

A citation ticket will also be issued to those who are caught not throwing their trash in the provided trash bins.

The Cebu City Police Office also conducts a 24/7 patrolling around the market. (CNU Interns Denise Mae Codis and Miguel Angelu Lumen)

THE Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)-Mandaue’s male dormitory is expected to move entirely to its new location in September this year.

Superintendent of Mandaue City Jail and attorney Jonathan Baltar stated on Friday, July 14, that although they were meant to move in by June, it has been postponed to September due to ongoing construction.

"Wala paman na install ang gipa request naku sa LGU (local government unit) nga mezzanine floor nga mao ila higdaan, unya on process pa sad ang embankment or tambak nga yuta para dili magbaha. At the same time mag-install pa hopefully masugdan karun katapusan ang admin office kay ug gi transfer last June, very congested ang PDLs (persons deprived of liberty) kung gamitun namu ang ubang selda as office ug clinic," Baltar explained.

(The LGU has not yet erected the mezzanine floor I requested, and work is still being done to build an embankment or mound of land to prevent floods. When we use other cells as offices and clinics after our transfer in June, the PDLs become quite crowded).

The new Mandaue City Jail is located in Sitio Dungguan, Barangay Basak.

Of its 1,549 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), at least 1,015 have already been transferred to the new facility, while 534 remain in the old one. (HIC)

AT LEAST four families or 17 individuals were evacuated in Sitio Langub, Barangay Buhisan, Cebu City due to a landslide caused by downpour on Thursday, July 13, 2023.

In a phone interview, Harold Alcontin, head of Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO), said the landslide occurred around 6 a.m. and none were hurt during the incident.

Alcontin said that two houses were damaged because of the sustained cracks. The foundation of the houses also collapsed.

The affected families were evacuated to the barangay hall and were provided food and non-food items by the Department of Social Welfare Services (DSWS).

Alcontin said that residents nearby were advised to be vigilant because the incident might happen again any time.

"Unstable pa gyud unya nag sige tag uwan uwan. As of now, wala pa tay gipabalik," he said.

(The area is still unstable because we keep on experiencing rains. As of now, the affected families are not yet allowed to go back to their respective houses.)

He also said that officials and responders of Barangay Buhisan are still monitoring the area, especially with the current weather conditions.

Buhisan was identified as a landslide-prone area. (Camille Erika Butas, CNU Intern)

THE percentage of married women using modern family planning methods has increased from 29 percent in 1993 to 45 percent in 2022, said the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Thursday, July 13, 2023.

The PSA said that this is based on the results of the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) that it conducted in collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAid).

The NDHS provides valuable insights into various aspects of family planning, violence against women, fertility rates, women's empowerment, and access to healthcare in Central Visayas.

Results of the study were presented to local media during an event at Golden Prince Hotel and Suites in Cebu City on Thursday.

Maria Lourdes A. Garillos, the Fertility and Family Planning Population Program officer, said there has been a significant rise in the use of modern family planning methods among married women in Central Visayas, and this is a positive trend toward the adoption of modern contraceptive methods in the region.

Modern methods include female sterilization, male sterilization, pill, IUD, injectable, condom, mucus/billings/ovulation methods, Standard Days Method and Lactational Amenorrhea Method.

The traditional methods include calendar method, rhythm or periodic abstinence, and withdrawal.

The survey also highlighted the need for continued efforts in promoting family planning education and services to unmarried sexually active women, as their contraceptive usage remains significantly lower compared to married women.

This underscores the importance of reaching out to this population and addressing the barriers they may face in accessing and using contraception, said Garillos.

She added that the unmet need for family planning in Central Visayas has decreased from 22 percent in 1993 to 13 percent in 2022, indicating improved access to contraception.

These findings underscore the ongoing importance of enhancing family planning services and information, she said.

Central Visayas has a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 2.0, indicating a declining population growth rate in the region.

Also, the survey revealed the desired family size among women aged 15-49, which is crucial for tailoring family planning programs to meet women's expectations and aspirations in the region.

Domestic violence

Leslie Marie Zuasula, the Women's Empowerment and Domestic Violence Senior Statistical specialist, said domestic violence also remained a concerning issue in the region.

Based on the survey, 19 percent of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence from their current or most recent husband or intimate partner. Additionally, 14 percent of women in the same age group have suffered from any form of violence within the past 12 months.

Women empowerment, access to healthcare services

The survey also examined different facets of women's empowerment such as earnings, decision-making, and negotiation of sexual relations.

The PSA said policymakers can use this information to create comprehensive programs that promote gender equality and safeguard women's rights.

The survey also revealed the difficulties women aged 15-49 face when accessing healthcare services.

PSA said understanding these challenges is crucial for developing strategies to improve healthcare access for women and ensure timely medical attention.

It added that the survey's findings will serve as a valuable foundation for policymakers, healthcare providers, and stakeholders to design programs that address women's specific needs and enhance their overall well-being in Central Visayas. (Ian Christopher Ostulano, NWSSU intern)

CENTRAL and Eastern Visayas may experience cloudy skies, light to moderate with at times heavy rains, and thunderstorms due to the enhanced southwest monsoon, an official said Friday, July 14, 2023.

Engr. Alfredo Quiblat, director of Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration in Central Visayas (Pagasa 7), said bad weather condition will prevail in the two regions until Saturday, July 15, 2023.

He said light to moderate and at times occasional heavy rainshowers are expected over Negros Oriental, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Leyte, and Samar with lightning and strong winds, and with a rainfall amount of between 5.5 to 7.5 millimeters within one to two hours.

Quiblat said the seas will also be rough waves due to moderate to strong winds from the enhanced southwest monsoon. This, he said, may be risky for small boats and beachgoers.

He said the impacts associated with these hazards include flash floods and landslides.

Pagasa 7 has been monitoring Tropical Depression Dodong, which made landfall at 3 a.m. Friday over Dinapigue in Isabela province in northern Luzon. As of 10 a.m. Friday, the center of Dodong was located in the vicinity of Alacapan, Cagayan.

Quiblat said Dodong is expected to move away from northern Luzon Friday afternoon or evening and head toward the West Philippine Sea, where it may strengthen into a tropical storm before exiting the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) on Saturday evening or Sunday morning.

As of Friday morning, at least 12 areas in Luzon have been placed until Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal Number 1 due to Tropical Depression Dodong. (AML)

THE Tourism Promotions Board (TBP) announced the return of Philippine Travel Exchange (Phitex) to Cebu in September this year.

TBP officer-in-charge Arnold Gonzales made the announcement during the second day of the VisMin Tourism Congress and Travel Sale on Friday, July 14, 2023, at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotels & Casinos.

He said Cebu is hosting Phitex once again after 16 years. The last time it hosted the same event was in 2007.

Gonzales said the tentative schedule for the travel fair is September 19-26, 2023.

Phitex is known to be the largest public travel trade event in the country. It has become a major annual marketing event that aims to strengthen the Philippines' brand image and promote tourism packages.

This year's event will feature a two-day face-to-face for the Travel Exchange (Travex), Phitex Educational Program (PEP), and Pre and Post-Event Tours for Buyers, targeting around 100 buyers and seller companies.

The event will also feature business-to-business meetings among buyers and investors from all around the world to promote the Philippine's tourism sector.

Invited international buyers will be from travel businesses that are looking to extend their reach in the Philippines for their travel programs.

The event also targets local buyers, or those from travel agencies or operators and travel trade associations.

Key prospects attending the event are required to register on the official website of TBP in order to participate in the Philippine Travel Exchange 2023. (Chrys Chelsea Bernales, UP Cebu Intern)

A PREGNANT woman who was about to deliver illegal substances to her live-in partner inside the Mandaue City Jail was taken into custody on Thursday, July 13, 2023.

The suspect was identified as Angelina Contapay Empleo, 21, a resident of Barangay Paknaan, Mandaue City.

Empleo, who is five months pregnant with her second child, was found carrying a substance believed to be shabu during inspection.

The five grams of “shabu” worth around P40,000 were discovered by Jail Officer 1 Ira Luz Balbin, who broke out the stitched edge of the face towel that she brought.

Balbin said Empleo admitted that she was instructed by her live-in partner to deliver the drugs to him.

But when asked who gave her the face towel, Empleo did not answer and kept crying. (BBT/TPT)

CEBU Business Months (CBM) is back to showcase why Cebu is a global player and a prime destination for tourism, new industries, and investments. With the launch of its 2023 theme "Cebu 'ta bai - Moving Forward. Shaping the Future," CBM 2023 aims to focus on Cebu’s Tourism, Entrepreneurship, Technology, and Creative Entertainment industries.

Meet the team behind CBM 2023: Charles Kenneth Co

Spearheaded by Charles Kenneth Co, President of Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Cebu Business Months is a year-long initiative organized by Cebu Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCCI) “to inspire, promote, and grow Cebu businesses”. Before becoming the president, Co served as Vice President for Membership Development & Chamber Growth in 2020. In 2018, he was the Vice President for the External Affairs and Relations Division, and in 2017, he became the overall Chairman of the Cebu Business Months. JP Chongbian

Alongside Co, JP Chongbian serves as the overall chairman for CBM 2023. Chongbian—also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sugbo Mercado Food Bazaar Inc.—served the Cebuanos as well during the pandemic through his Let’s Eat Bai food delivery app. Now, Chongbian is planning to change the Cebuano food industry landscape through Cur8, a modern Asian restaurant that elevates flavor profiles from Southeast Asia. Chongbian envisions to promote Cebu through their various dining experiences coupled with platforms for up-and-coming chefs. Georgia Felice “Jaja” Chiongbian-Rama

Georgia Felice “Jaja” Chiongbian-Rama is CBM 2023’s Publicity and Promotion chairperson. As the president of Bigseed PR and Events, a full-service integrated marketing company, creator, artist and talent management agency, Jaja has the marketing experience to onboard CBM 2023’s theme. Having been appointed in CCCI’s Cebu Business Mobilization Publicity and Promotions Committee in 2022 and 2023, Jaja Chongbian-Rama’s experience in publicity and promotion is without a doubt outstanding. Daniellane “Danna” Bacolod

Joining Jaja Chongbian-Rama in Publicity and Promotion is Daniellane “Danna” Bacolod. Danna is CBM 2023’s Publicity and Promotion Co-chair. Since her graduation at the University of San Carlos in and earning the outstanding leader award in 2015, Danna has already worked with several media outlets, celebrities, influencers, and key personalities. She also manages various events and collaborated with different. As the co-chair of publicity and promotion, Danna will be working together with Jaja to ensure that CBM 2023 reaches its target audiences. Kate Dychangco-Anzani

Kate Dychangco-Anzani is the President of La Cosa Nostra and Anzani International Hospitality Holding and the Vice President for Dychangco Group of Companies. In this year’s CBM 2023, she serves as the tourism chairperson. Holding three different degrees and one masters at Harvard Innovation Lab, Kate did not fail to use her expertise into practice as she became the resource speaker for TedX on the topic “How Sustainability, Flexibility, Adaptability & Creative Change is Needed Moving Forward” in April 2022. She is very active in championing food systems and food chain management sustainability as well as adamant in changing complexities of food, hospitality, and ecosystems in the future. Allen Andre Suarez

Allen Andre Suarez is CBM 2023’s Tourism Co-chairperson. As a third-generation entrepreneur, Andre has the background and experience in the business field. He is the owner of Brick Lane Doughnuts and has over 10 years of experience in real-estate. Andre has a diploma in culinary arts and a master’s degree in entrepreneurship. This dashing young entrepreneur is set to make Cebu’s tourism flourish as he spearheads Cebu Business Months together with Kate Dychangco-Anzani. Joselito “Boboi” Costas

Another distinguished individual co-chairing the tourism working team of CBM 2023 is Joselito “Boboi” Costas. Named as one of the inspiring Filipinos in 2016 by Philippine Airlines, Boboi does more than just inspiring Filipinos. He organized and led the transformation of the fishing village of Bojo, Aloguinsan, which gained several awards, one of which is being hailed as Best Tourism Village of the world by the United Nations World Tourism Organization in 2021. Boboi champions sustainable tourism focusing on rural tourism as a tool for resource conservation and poverty alleviation. Boboi, together with Kate and Andre, make up the tourism heads for CBM 2023. Ryan Tan Tu

Joining the CBM 2023 working team is Ryan Tan Tu. Ryan is CBM 2023’s ICT-BPM chairperson. With an extensive background in the field of technology and innovation, Ryan has been contributing to both the private and public sector with products and services relevant to societal needs. With his certifications in Viral, Social Media, Digital Marketing Planning, and Experiential Marketing, Ryan nurtures businesses to compete in the global marketplace of technology. Ryan Raymund Yu

Together with Tu, Ryan Raymund Yu is the founder, president and CEO of Fine Upgrades Computer and Gadgets Distribution and will be co-chairing the CBM 2023’s ICT-BPM working team. He is also the Chief Automation Designer of TechIsland Corp, a subsidiary company of Fine Upgrades Corp Umbrella focused on consulting and designing smart spaces. Raymund was also the past president of Association of Computer resellers, past vice president of and current communications officer of BNI Capital Cebu, board member of Cebu Road Heroes, member of rotary club of Cebu, and past vice president and member of Sacred Heart School - Hijas de Jesus Parents’ Association. April V. Ong Vaño

Completing the chairpersons for ICT-BPM working team is April V. Ong Vaño. April will be co-chairing the committee together with Ryan and Raymund. At her young age, April founded Collabox and My Soul Briefcase. She is an active key player in the local startup ecosystem and has worked with various key stakeholders in the region. One of her advocacies is building an ecosystem among innovators through collaborative projects. She is also a strong advocate for sustainability and economic empowerment. Together with Ryan and Raymund, April and the team will spearhead CBM 2023’s ICT-BPM committee, dedicated to growing organizations and creating value for local Cebuano businesses. Gretchen Choa

Gretchen Choa is this year’s CBM Chairperson for Entrepreneurship. With her experience as the Vice President of the Camden Trading Group, Gretchen has more than the entrepreneurial skills to spearhead the entrepreneurship working team. She has an extensive background in retail distribution, sales, and operations. During the pandemic, Gretchen and her friends formed Courage Cebu, a platform aiming to provide PPEs and food supply to medical frontliners and daily wage earners. Courage Cebu received a support amounting to P2.7 million pesos during the pandemic and P3.8 million pesos after the onslaught of typhoon Odette. Gretchen’s ability to sprout productivity is what CBM 2023 needs to inspire and equip future Cebuano entrepreneurs. Niko Basubas

Niko Basubas is CBM 2023’s Entrepreneurship Co-Chairman. He is the CEO and founder of Canbas Custom Furniture & Home Accessories, where they have a wide manufacturing capability along with a broad selection of materials including indigenous ones. With their highly skilled workforce and flexible approach, they aim to be a market leader in the home and office furnishings industry. Niko’s results-oriented approach has allowed him to be the best at creating sales and operational systems, processes, and policies. Lawrence Panganiban Another part of CBM 2023’s working team is Lawrence Panganiban, CBM 2023’s Creative Entertainment Industry Chairman. Having been involved in the development of the entertainment industry since 2014 through his animation service work and original content, he continues his creative endeavors as he founded the creative studio “Enigma Kai” and is the Chairman of the company as of 2022. He is also the founder of “Sugbo Entertainment Expo Cebu” (SEE CEBU) and Cebu Creative Entertainment Week. With his expertise and experience in the creative industry, he was appointed as the Committee Chairman for Creative Entertainment Industries in CBM 2022 and continues to do so for this year. Bryan O. Yap

Completing the CBM 2023 working team is Bryan O. Yap. Bryan is CBM 2023’s Creative Entertainment Industry Co-Chairperson. Bryan is the CEO and founder of the Republiq Group of Companies (RGC), VisMin’s largest Digital Transformation Agency focused on transforming business to become future-proof. A part of RGC is Ark Digital, its web development wing, Entertainment Republiq, its production wing, and Creative Republiq, its Branding, Design, and Social Media Wing. With Bryan’s experience in producing quality entertainment content, the creative entertainment industry wing of CBM 2023 is in good hands.

The exciting and revolutionary Cebu Business Months 2023 will highlight Cebu's advantages and potential in a variety of industries. By embracing the digital age, highlighting local talent, and encouraging collaboration, CBM aspires to inspire, promote, and grow Cebu's businesses through its engaging events. CBM is a symbol of the region's resiliency, adaptability, and steadfast spirit as Cebu advances and shapes its future. (SPONSORED CONTENT)

TECHNOLOGY business leaders based in Cebu and the Visayas & Mindanao regions are invited to attend or stream via Zoom the upcoming KPMG Innovation Summit 2023, at Fairmont, Makati on July 20, 2023.

Tagged “MAKING IT HAPPEN: From Innovative Ideas to Execution,” KPMG Philippines, one of the country’s leading professional services firms, looks forward to invigorating the business sector’s spirit of enterprise with game-changing discussions that zero in on innovation and technology. Global technology innovator For the first time, KPMG PH will also be granting a tech start-up the opportunity to represent the country at the KPMG Global Technology Innovator finals to be held in Lisbon, Portugal in November. Apart from potentially winning the competition on the global stage, the summit sets the stage for start-up companies to showcase their products and services and build meaningful connections with investors, industry experts, and fellow disruptors. KPMG Digital Government Center During the summit, participants both live and online will likewise witness the launch of Digital Government Center, a remarkable initiative aimed at driving digital transformation in government agencies and local government units.

The Digital Government Center is the firm’s one-stop shop for national government agencies and local government units to help them with their digital transformation journeys from crafting a strategy plan and road map to automatic services and processes to harnessing emerging technology to provide citizen-centric solutions to upskill civil servants through trainings and certifications. Smart cities panel Four hyper-specialized plenary sessions are underway at the KPMG Innovation Summit 2023: Smart Cities, ESG Technology, The Next Wave of Automation, and Industry Disruptors.

As the world continues to witness rapid urbanization and technological advancements, the concept of smart cities has emerged as a powerful solution to address the complex challenges faced by modern societies. These intelligent ecosystems leverage cutting-edge technologies to create sustainable, efficient, and livable environments.

Technology enterprises and tech start-ups will greatly benefit from the panel discussions led by Department of Information and Technology (DICT) Undersecretary David Almirol, KPMG Singapore Associate Director Abishek Dubey, Public-Private Partnership Center of the Philippines, Undersecretary and Executive Director Ma. Cynthia Hernandez, Microsoft Philippines National Technology and Security Officer Dale Jose, Asian Development Bank Digital Innovation and Architecture Division Director Ozzeir Khan and Aboitiz Data Innovation General Manager for Smart Cities Alvin Ng who are set to tackle Cities of the Future: Redefining Smart Cities.

The summit provides an avenue to listen and interact with these prime movers of Smart Cities as it places people at the core of sustainable development and ecological design, to improve quality of life and create a value network. Many industries are presently evolving into such cities opening themselves to both its challenges and opportunities.

Being one of the most fascinating subjects that have drawn interest within the business industry, panelists are expected to expound on how cities of the future apply information and communication technology to improve its infrastructure, public services and mobility.



KPMG Philippines Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Head of Advisory and Smart Cities panel discussion moderator Noel Bonoan says: “Though it may seem unattainable, the evolution to smart cities, many believe, has already begun. Smart cities are not just a distant vision. They are real and accessible, ready to solve urban challenges; from traffic decongestion to digital payment solutions, and collaborating with the Local Government Units, National Government Agencies and GOCCs. Partnership with the private sector, multilaterals, and other funding institutions are also key to realizing Smart City projects in the Philippines aimed at improving lives, attracting investments and enhancing economic competitiveness. Industry Disruptors panel Aside from prime movers of Smart Cities, another league of game- changers in technology worth listening to is the panel on Industry Disruptors: Game Changers in Tech.



KPMG Philippines Head of Deal Advisory and Industry Disruptors Panel Moderator Michael Arcatomy Guarin says: “Disruptors play a crucial role in driving innovation and growth across a variety of sectors such as financial, industrial, retail and healthcare. By embracing disruption, we can unlock new avenues for success, transform business models and stay ahead of rapidly changing market dynamics.”

Changing the rules that have been long established and institutionalized are always met with resistance, so it takes a disruptive stance to move things forward and make businesses more efficient. Whether it's adopting ESG models of technology to make businesses more efficient or introducing disruptive technology into the fold of tradition, disruptors are worth learning from to help solve problems may it be common or complicated.

Panelists for Industry Disruptors include Alliance of Tech Innovators for the Nation Lead Convenor and DICT former Undersecretary Mon Ibrahim, Fuse Lending President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tony Isidro, KPMG India Partner and Lead for Digital Advisory Sushant Rabra, and Mayani Co-founder and CEO JT Solis are all set to discuss how traditional industries are most affected by the pro-active gumption of disruptors who are changing the game through revolutionary technologies and innovation. ESG Technology and The Next Wave of Automation panels KPMG Philippines Advisory Partner and ESG Lead Kristine Aguirre leads the panel discussion on the industry’s important role in enabling ESG adoption to make it easier for businesses to embed ESG models into their operations. Joined by ESG Tech panelists Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary for Integrated Environmental Science Carlos Primo David, International Container Terminal Services, Inc. Head of Sustainability and Development Roy Luntayao, and KPMG India Director for Digital Strategy and ESG Technology Unaise Urfi will delve into how technologies offer solutions to address current ESG issues.

KPMG Philippines Head of Technology Consulting Jallain Marcel Manrique will facilitate the dialogue of Analytics Association of the Philippines President Michelle Alarcon, Department of Labor and Employment Asec. Paul Vincent Añover, Aboitiz Data Innovation CEO Dr. David Hardoon, Globe Telecom CIO Raul Macatangay, Concepcion Business Services President and COO Eric Sarmiento, and Robotic Process Automation Philippines Founder and President Allan Tan to shed light on the opportunities and risks that accompany this emerging wave of automation.

Witness the convergence of industry experts and technology leaders as they delve into groundbreaking innovations that are revolutionizing numerous business sectors. Be part of the conversation, where you can contribute your invaluable insights on how advanced technology is undeniably shaping the future.

Register and join the virtual KPMG Innovation Summit 2023 for FREE via this link: https://bit.ly/KPMGInnovationSummit2023_Registration.

Deadline of registration is on July 18, 2023, at 2 p.m. (SPONSORED CONTENT)