Sleep Health and Wellness Center opens at UC-Med in Cebu

CEBU – A Sleep Health and Wellness Center (SHWC) opened at Room 1206, 12^th Floor, University of Cebu-Medical Center (UCMed) in Mandaue City, with Atty. Augusto Go, UCMed Chairman, Dr. Armando Tan, Medical Director and Dr. Merci Angelie Letegio Uy, Head Pulmonologist, UCMed Sleep Health and Wellness Center leading the blessings and ribbon cutting ceremonies Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

Dr. Armando Tan highlighted the importance of sleep health and the role of a sleep lab in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders and the prevalence of sleep disorders in the Philippines, noting it ranks third globally in countries with worst sleep habits, with an average sleep duration of 6.13 hours per night, according to a study by Onebed.

Dr. Tan and Dr. Uy mentioned the importance of sleep health and the role of a sleep lab in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders, and the use of CPAP machines for treatment, the impact of weight on sleep, and the role of diet in sleep health.

“Sleep apnea, insomnia, and snoring are some significant issues, with snoring being a potential sign of obstructed airways.  The availability of pediatric pulmonologists and the importance of addressing sleep disorders early to prevent long-term health complications are equally part of Sleep Health and Wellness Center’s engagement services,” Dr. Uy said.

The Center provides sleep diagnosis, recommendations on foods and dietary habits that can improve sleep quality; explore the possibility of offering 24-hour sleep monitoring services for patients; ensure the availability of personnel to provide after-sales care and guidance on the use of CPAP machines and develop screening tools to help doctors identify patients who may benefit from a sleep study, Dr. Uy shared on the services of the center.

Prevalence of sleep disorders and their impact in daily lives

 Based on the study by Onebed, 56% of Filipinos experience sleep problems, making them the most sleepless people in Southeast Asia and 46% of Southeast Asians face sleep problems at least a few times a week. The most common sleep problems include--difficulty falling asleep at 49%; waking up often at night, 39% and irregular sleep and wake cycle, 38 percent.

Vulnerable groups of sleep disorders include medical students and residents report chronic partial loss of sleep and women factory workers are 32% more likely to experience mental health symptoms due to sleep problems.

 

Contractual workers or temporary workers are 2.33 times more likely to have frequent mental health symptoms, decreased sleep hours, poor sleep quality, and other health issues.

“These statistics highlight the need for awareness and action to address sleep disorders in the Philippines,” Dr. Tan said.

Dr. Uy explained the significance of having a Sleep Lab and its role in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, and even snoring, which can lead to serious health issues like hypertension and cardiac disease.

Sleep disorders and their impact on daily activities, leading to headaches, sleepiness, and even accidents, such as falling asleep while driving. Loud snoring can indicate obstructed airways, leading to oxygen drop and potential heart and brain issues, Dr. Uy said.

“It is very important to address sleep disorders early, especially in children, to prevent long-term health complications. Some patients can stop breathing for up to three minutes, leading to severe health risks like heart attacks and strokes,” the doctors explained.

The Sleep Health and Wellness Center, sleep lab and the use of CPAP machines are important tools for monitoring and treating sleep disorders, Dr. Tan said that the Center can provide prescriptions for machines and after-sales care to ensure proper use and maintenance.

The doctors at the Center underscored the need for a holistic approach to sleep health, including lifestyle changes and medical interventions and the need for comprehensive sleep studies to identify and treat various sleep disorders. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Silliman U calls for full accountability on spent wash spill into Tañon Strait Protected Seascape

DUMAGUETE CITY – Silliman University (SU) issued a statement expressing its deep concerns and solidarity with the communities and ecosystems affected by the catastrophic spill of untreated molasses wastewater into the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (TSPS), the Philippines’ largest marine protected area, encompassing more than 500,000 hectares between Negros and Cebu.

In its official statement shared to media, SU stands in solidarity with the affected communities and remains steadfast in its commitment to science-based environmental action, accountability, and ecological restoration.

On the evening of October 26, 2025, Silliman University received reports that the wastewater lagoon of Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) Bais Distillery collapsed, releasing large volumes of molasses-based ethanol wastewater (spent wash, vinasse, or stillage) into Bais Bay, which caused severe water discoloration, fish kills, and algal blooms, gravely threatening the ecological integrity and biodiversity of the Tañon Strait.

Silliman’s immediate response was to mobilize scientific teams to assess the environmental impacts in coordination with government agencies and local partners.  On November 1, 2025, a team from SU, in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (DENR-TSPS) and URC representatives, conducted a preliminary water quality assessment confirming oxygen depletion in the affected waters.

On November 2, 2025, another SU team with DENR-TSPS, URC, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Manjuyod Bantay Dagat carried out a rapid field assessment to determine the extent of the spill and severity of fish kills.

Preliminary results from on-site surveys and drone-based Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping indicated that the spent wash plume has affected between 4,494 and 6,000 hectares of marine and coastal waters as of October 31 and November 2, 2025, according to data from both SU and DENR-TSPS.

Localized fish kills were observed up to seven kilometers from the spill source. Interviews with fish pen and corral operators in Manjuyod revealed economic losses ranging from approximately PhP 1,000 to PhP 1.8 million per operator, along with extensive damage to seaweed farms during the peak of the fish kills on October 27, 2025.

 

These findings provide a scientific basis for guiding immediate response measures and supporting evidence-based rehabilitation and management strategies.

Actions and recommendations

The University continues to support the Department of Environment and Natural Resources -Negros Island - Siquijor Region (DENR-NIR) through ongoing water quality and biological assessments, technical advisories, and the formulation of rehabilitation plans.  These efforts address both immediate mitigation and long-term recovery, including habitat restoration, fisheries management, and livelihood revitalization. 

Silliman, in its official statement strongly recommends the urgent repair of the collapsed lagoon and containment structures, the implementation of transparent and regular water quality monitoring, and strengthened multi-sectoral coordination to prevent further ecological damage.

The University also highlights the need for strict compliance with environmental safety and pollution control standards to protect marine and coastal ecosystems, and it calls for full accountability and comprehensive restoration from all responsible parties to uphold environmental justice for the affected communities and ecosystems of the Tañon Strait. 

“The University urges collective vigilance, shared responsibility, and sustained stewardship of our common marine heritage so that the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape and the life it sustains may continue to thrive for generations to come,” the statement reads. (Photos: Google Images)

 

 

 

A lawyer sues a congressman, 7 mayors of Cebu’s 5th district over trip abroad

CEBU— Cebuano lawyer Julito Añora Jr. filed complaint criminal and administrative complaints at the Office of the Ombudsman for the Visayas on November 11, against congressman, Duke Frasco and seven mayors of Cebu’s 5^th district, alleging that these public officials violated the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019), the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (RA 6713), the Local Government Code (RA 7160), and the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 (RA 10121).

Atty. Añora said that his complaints against 5th district representative Duke Frasco and the seven mayors--Aljew Fernando Frasco of Liloan, Avis Ginoo-Monleon of Catmon, Alfredo Arquillano Jr. of San Francisco, Greman Solante of Tudela, Edgar Rama of Poro, Manuel Santiago of Pilar, and Felijur Quiño of Compostela, over their trips to Europe during Typhoon Tino.

“Public office is a public trust. Our people were drowning, our communities were suffering, and lives were being lost — yet our local leaders were abroad on a private trip.  This case is not about politics. It is about accountability.  We cannot excuse absence in times when presence is most needed. The people deserve justice. And the truth deserves to be told,” Añora said, in an interview with media here.

Añora said that his complaint is about reminding every public official that leadership is a responsibility, not a privilege to be enjoyed while their constituents are in crisis and that public officials are duty-bound to lead and protect their people in time of crisis

5^th District representative Duke Frasco, in his social media posts clarified that the London trip was part of the Philippine delegation to the World Travel Market (WTM) and that the Speaker through the Secretary-General of the House of Representatives officially approved his travel, and no government funds were used for the trip.

Frasco, in his various media interviews bared that they arrived in London on November 4 but immediately secured the earliest flight on November 5, arrived in Cebu on November 6 and went directly to ground zero in most affected barangays in Liloan.

With regards to the seven mayors who were with him to the London trip, Frasco said the Provincial government of Cebu, which has the power to approve and cancel travels, has actually approved of the trip.

On the allegations of neglecting to fulfil statutory obligations under the Local Government Code and the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act, are based on erroneous assumptions and misrepresentations of fact and law.  “These are legally misplaced,” Frasco said. (Photos: Facebook Posts of Anora & Frasco)

 

 

12th Meeting of Partners tackles challenges, habitats of East Asian-Australasian Flyway

MACTAN, Cebu—The 12^th Meeting of Partners (MOP12) of the East Asian–Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP) happening in Cebu, Philippines from November 8-14, 2025 at Shangrila Plaza in Mactan, brought together 42 partner organizations from all over the world to review progress, chart the partnership's future direction, and strengthen their shared mission to conserve migratory water birds and their habitats.

“The meeting of partners here is focused on the importance of governance, compliance, and strategic planning in business and conservation efforts. Key outcomes include discussions on illegal hunting, green energy, and the new youth task force—partnerships and biodiversity,” Jennifer George of EAAFP at the press conference Monday, November 10 at Shangrila.

George said that EAAFP site managers identify key messages for partners, emphasizing community and indigenous roles in change while the Biodiversity Management Bureau highlights habitat loss and the need for protected area management.

Anchored on the theme, “Weaving Connections: Celebrating Migration, Traditional Knowledge, and Innovation across our Flyway", the event shall focus on uniting diverse communities, fostering scientific innovation, and honoring shared traditional knowledge across the Flyway.

Key activities of MOP12 in Cebu include the discussion on the development of the Flyway Site Network, ensuring internationally important wetlands are sustainably managed, George added that partners will also exchange experiences, forge new collaborations and strategize actions by creating working groups and task forces.

Participants to the MOP12 will have an excursion and visit the Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary, a Ramsar site and one of the Philippines' most important areas for migratory water birds.

What is a Flyway?

George said that the EAAFP is composed of 42 organizations, including national governments, intergovernmental agencies, international NGOs, and private enterprises, working together to protect migratory water birds and their habitats across the East Asian-Australasian Flyway.

The term "Flyway" refers to a flight path or route used by migratory birds, such as water birds, between their breeding and wintering grounds. The East Asian-Australasian Flyway is a specific route used by millions of migratory birds, stretching from the Arctic tundra of Siberia and Alaska, through East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australasia, to Antarctica, George explained. 

She added that the Flyway concept recognizes that these birds don't recognize national borders and rely on a network of habitats, including wetlands, coastlines, and other ecosystems, to complete their annual migrations. By conserving and managing these habitats, the EAAFP aims to protect the migratory birds and the ecosystems they depend on.

“Think of it like a superhighway for birds - the Flyway is a vital route that connects breeding, feeding, and wintering grounds, and the EAAFP is working to keep this highway safe and healthy for the birds!” George said.

According to Amy Fraenkel of the Convention on Migratory Species, the UN Convention on Migratory Species stressed ecological connectivity for migratory species survival and climate change mitigation. She noted the Asian Development Bank's role in nature-sensitive development, underscoring the importance of partnerships in conservation and development.

Fraenjet mentioned three key action items of the MOP12: to bring forward three more protected sites in the Philippines to highlight the importance of migratory seabirds and birds; identify the sites that are important for migratory species and work across governments, experts, and local communities to protect them; and commit to making development sensitive and aware of its impact on migratory species and their habitats.

                       Challenges facing the East Asian-Australasian Flyway

The East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF) is facing significant challenges, with many migratory bird species experiencing population declines. Some areas of concerns include habitat loss, threatened species, protection gaps, human impact and conservation efforts.

Mariglo Laririt, regional director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) underscored the importance of highlighting and acknowledging habitat loss and protected area management.  The focus is on protected areas and the need for governance that works effectively.

Habitat Loss: Rapid urbanization, agriculture expansion, and infrastructure development have led to widespread habitat loss and degradation, threatening the survival of migratory water birds.  

Threatened Species: The EAAF has the highest proportion of threatened migratory birds at 19% with species like the Spoon-billed Sandpiper and Baer's Pochard critically endangered.

Protection Gaps: Only 15.63% of stopover sites are covered by protected areas, leaving many critical habitats vulnerable to destruction.

Human Impact: Human activities like hunting, pollution, and climate change exacerbate the decline of migratory bird populations.

Conservation Efforts: Initiatives like the Regional Flyway Initiative and the East Asian-Australasian Flyway Partnership aim to conserve migratory water birds and their habitats, but more work is needed to address the scale and urgency of the issue. 

“Flyways are crucial for migratory birds, connecting over 1,000 important sites across the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. These sites support 210 species of migratory water birds, the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the role of nature in combating climate change are crucial.  Overall, the EAAF is under significant pressure, and concerted conservation efforts are necessary to protect these incredible migratory birds and their habitats,” Fraenkel said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Musonda Mumba, Convention on Wetlands talked about intersectionality and development sensitivity adding to the point of ecological connectivity, emphasizing that nature knows no borders. Birds are used as indicator species, and the state of wetlands affects their migration. (Photos: MBCNewman/Google Images)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Viettel Cyber Security reveals 52M credentials in data breaches in PH

CEBU – One of Asia’s leading cybersecurity firms--Viettel Cyber Security revealed that the Philippines’ exposure to cyber threats has expanded to a recorded 49 percent in data breaches, exposing over 52M credentials in just three months for the third quarter of 2025.

 

“Cybersecurity isn’t about fear, it’s about foresight. As the Philippines accelerates towards digitalization faster than ever, the importance of security must not be overlooked. Organizations who innovate without the necessary protection in place become vulnerable to risks. Cybersecurity isn’t just a safeguard—it’s an enabler of sustainable digital growth,” said Thomas Luu, Country Manager at Viettel Cyber Security.

 Luu, speaking at a Cybersecurity Awareness Month forum, released its Q3 2025 Cyber Threat Landscape Report that underscores how the country’s rapid digital transformation continues to outpace its defenses. This positions Viettel Cyber Security as the first private company to release a quarterly cybersecurity assessment specific to the Philippines.

According to Luu, the report showed how nature of cyber threats is rapidly changing with 76 data breach incidents up 49% from Q2’s 51 cases; 4.3 Million compromised accounts, a 73% rise from 2.5 million last quarter; 7,656 phishing attacks — with 31% aimed at banking and finance and 27 new vulnerabilities, found in various platforms which are used every day in workplaces.

The report said that the healthcare sector has emerged as the top target for cybercriminals, driven by the growing value of patient data and the increasing adoption of digital health systems. Hospitals and clinics have become prime targets for ransomware attacks that can disrupt critical operations and compromise sensitive medical information.

Other sectors facing heightened risk include finance and e-commerce, which continue to be exploited through phishing, credential theft, and data exfiltration. Meanwhile, manufacturing, energy, and public services are most exposed to ransomware, supply-chain compromises, and advanced persistent threats (APTs).

Beyond institutions, more ordinary Filipinos are becoming victims to these threats. Leaked personal data is being reused in fake job listings, e-commerce scams, and fraudulent loan applications. People who reuse passwords across accounts are especially vulnerable, while small businesses are being hit with phishing invoices disguised as messages from legitimate suppliers.

Luu noted that AI and deepfake technologies have begun to reshape the anatomy of cyberattacks. Cybercriminals now use AI-generated videos, cloned voices, and fake executive communications to deceive employees and partners. Combined with AI-assisted malware, these attacks are faster, more targeted, and harder to detect—ushering in an era where deception has become industrialized.

The Need for Cyber Resilience

Viettel Cyber Security recommends a four-pronged strategy for companies to stay resilient amid growing cyberthreats. This includes regular patching and software updates to close known vulnerabilities, maintaining offline data backups supported by clear disaster recovery procedures, and continuous employee training to enhance awareness and minimize human error. Equally vital is round-the-clock threat monitoring or the use of managed Security Operations Center (SOC) services to ensure early detection and quick response to potential breaches.

“Cybersecurity has become a marker of leadership and trust, especially in an increasingly digital economy. At Viettel Cyber Security, we partner with organizations to build resilience through managed SOC services. Our SOC empowers businesses to enhance operational efficiency and security management, helping them overcome workforce constraints while ensuring 24/7 protection against evolving cyber threats,” Luu said.

To learn more about the Viettel Cyber Security and the Cyber Threat Landscape Report, visit https://viettelsecurity.com.

 

 

DSWD 7 strengthens awareness, advocacy against trafficking

CEBU CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Regional Field Office VII continues to strengthen its awareness and advocacy campaigns against the increasing number of Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), Trafficking in Persons, and Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC)
in the country.

“There is a critical need to enhance advocacy efforts with direct services. Beyond these services, we are also intensifying our advocacy efforts to combat trafficking, OSAEC, and gender-based violence, particularly VAWC. This is crucial because women and children continue to be highly vulnerable to these issues,” Shalaine Marie Lucero, DSWD7 regional director said in an interview. 

DSWD7 through the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking-Violence Against Women and their Children (IACAT7-VAWC) bared that as of August 31, 2025, the agency has assisted 179 individuals through the Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP), providing a total of ₱823,000.00 in aid.

Of the 179 served, 123 were victim-survivors of OSAEC, 33 were victims of sexual exploitation, 16 were cases of debt bondage, and seven individuals were intercepted, Lucero said that DSWD7 is collaborating with LGUs to monitor the families and communities on possible unreported cases. “The victims must be identified and assisted as soon as possible,” she added.

DSWD7 and the IACAT7-VAWC worked closely with the law enforcement agencies in conducting rescue operations, while several cases were referred by LGUs for intervention because trafficked individuals undergo assessment by social workers to determine appropriate interventions, Lucero said.

Labor Trafficking, a major concern in the region

According to Lucero, Labor Trafficking remains a major concern in the region as seen in the the 2023 Sulu Case, where victims, many from the island communities in the region, were rescued from Tubba Lubok Island after being deceived into joining large-scale fishing operations and subjected to exploitative labor conditions.

In 2024, DSWD 7 also provided assistance to foreign nationals rescued from illegal POGO operations in Lapu-Lapu City. Both foreign and local victims were provided with appropriate assistance.  Fishermen rescued from Sulu arrive at the Cebu City Port, while foreign nationals from illegal POGO operations in Lapu-Lapu City receive psychosocial counseling.

Fishermen rescued from Sulu arrive at the Cebu City Port, while foreign nationals from illegal POGO operations in Lapu-Lapu City receive psychosocial counseling.

Despite intensified efforts, cases of OSAEC and the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) remain prevalent in communities, with data showing a continuing upward trend. To ensure support, RRPTP provides social welfare services for victims and their families, including livelihood, medical, and educational assistance.

It also offers employment and skills training, logistical support during court hearings, and psychosocial counseling during rescue operations.  Victims are also accommodated in temporary shelters through DSWD 7’s facilities, such as the Haven for Women, Home for Girls, Reception and Study Center for Children, and the Center for Women and Children.

Lucero said that in expanding advocacy reach, DSWD7 promotes awareness through community forums, radio and television programs, and advocacy caravans in schools, amplifying public awareness and rallying support.

“We do not only aim to reduce and prevent cases of trafficking and abuse but also empower the public through increased awareness,” Lucero explained.

She concluded that by making people informed and given access to reporting mechanisms, the greater the chances of reducing the number of victim-survivors referred to the agency for intervention. (Photos: DSWD7/Kerwin Macopia)

 

PBBM commits continued support for typhoon victims in Cebu

CEBU -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. committed the national government’s full and continued support for the people of Cebu seeing firsthand the devastation caused by Typhoon Tino and expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of lives, assuring affected families that the government will continue to assist them in recovering from the disaster.

"As long as the national government is needed, we will be here. We are not leaving. I made the same promise to Cebu, your Governor and your Mayor, that as long as the government, the national government is needed, we will be here. We are not leaving,” speaking after the situation briefing at the Cebu Provincial Capitol, Friday, November 7.

Marcos vowed to help the families of those with casualty, helping them to recover, to put back on their feet and do what the government can to make up for the loss that they suffered.  Prior to the briefing at Capitol, the President visited Liloan town and the City of Talisay to oversee the relief and recovery efforts being conducted by various government agencies.

The President said aside from providing the essential needs such as food and water to displaced families, the government will also extend financial assistance to those whose homes were damaged—P5,00 for partially damaged houses and P10,000 for those completely damaged houses.  Medical teams have also been deployed to treat injuries and prevent disease outbreaks in evacuation centers.

Marcos noted that the primary damage from the typhoon came from severe flooding rather than strong winds. He said the existing flood control structures, such as dikes and protective barriers, were damaged by the volume of rainfall.

The briefing at the Capitol also discussed the government’s relocation plans for families living in no-build zones. He said coordination with local government units (LGUs) is ongoing to identify safe relocation sites and provide temporary shelters for those who cannot return to their homes yet.

Meanwhile, the President reminded local officials to remain vigilant and prepared, even though the incoming weather disturbance is not expected to directly affect the Visayas region.

“Sa tingin namin, hindi naman yata dadaan dito sa Visayas pero mag-ingat pa rin lahat. At hindi natin alam dahil kami kung minsan lumilipat. Kami naman ngayon, Northern Luzon and Central Luzon ang nag-aabang para dito sa Uwan na parating,” Marcos said.

Severe Tropical Storm Fung-wong is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Friday midnight or early Saturday morning. It will be called Uwan locally. (Photos/PR: PND/PIA/Capitol PIO)