Laguindingan Int’l Airport strengthens Northern Mindanao connectivity, tourism growth

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY— The Laguindingan International Airport (LIA), operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Laguindingan Airport Corporation (ALAC) strengthens connectivity and positions the airport as the region’s primary gateway to its diverse tourism destinations, supporting the growth of tourism in Northern Mindanao.

“Air connectivity is a key enabler of tourism growth. By strengthening access to Northern Mindanao through Laguindingan International Airport, we help open the region to more travelers and opportunities while supporting local destinations and communities,” said AIC Airports Head of Strategy and Communications Christine Villanueva. 

Villanueva highlighted the important role airports play in enabling tourism development, at the Northern MIndanao Tourism Development Plan WriteShop organized through the partnership between the Department of Tourism (DOT) – Region 10 and the Asian Institute of Management – Dr. Andrew Tan Center for Tourism.

Serving as the main air gateway to Northern Mindanao, LIA connects travelers to some of the region’s most exciting attractions, from outdoor adventure sites and eco-tourism destinations to cultural and culinary experiences and the beautiful white sand beaches  across the provinces of the region.   The airport also provides the baseline infrastructure needed to scale these attractions for international and domestic markets.

“A clear tourism development plan is essential in guiding how Northern Mindanao can grow its tourism sector in a strategic and sustainable way. It ensures that our destinations are developed responsibly, that communities benefit from tourism opportunities, and that stakeholders—from government to private sector partners—are aligned in a shared vision for the region,” said DOT Region 10 Director Marie Elaine Unchuan.

 

The writeshop brought together tourism stakeholders to develop strategies for destination marketing, tourism product development, sustainability initiatives, and regional collaboration, efforts that will help enhance Northern Mindanao’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.

 

ALAC noted that the continued development of LIA is aligned with the broader goal of improving access to Northern Mindanao and supporting the region’s vision of becoming a vibrant hub for tourism, business, and investment.

 

Laguindingan International Airport (LIA) is the main gateway to Northern Mindanao, serving the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, and the provinces of Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte, and Bukidnon.  It is strategically located in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental.

LIA is fully owned and managed by Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) and was opened in June 2013.  LIA replaced the old Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro City, offering modern facilities designed to accommodate the region’s growing passenger and cargo demands. 

As part of AIC Airports’ assets, LIA is positioned to be a key regional hub supporting Mindanao’s trade, tourism, and economic development. (Photos: Aboitiz InfraCapital-LIA/Edilyth Maribojoc-Caloñge)

PBBM leads mass oathtaking of newly-promoted teachers, school heads of Cebu

CEBU CITY -- President Fredinand Marcos, Jr. officiated the mass oathtaking of newly-promoted teachers and school heads of the 44 municipalities Cebu Province with DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and Cebu governor, Pamela Baricuatro held at the IEC Convention Center, Cebu City.

In his speech, PBBM said that this ceremony reflects the teachers’ commitment to shaping young minds, strengthening their character, and guiding them towards a brighter, more progressive future.

“More than just an individual milestone, this promotion sends a message of hope and inspiration to thousands of teachers and principals who aspire to follow in your footsteps.  This occasion also signifies this Administration’s deep appreciation for the work that you do and our commitment to ensure that our teachers continue to receive the support and recognition that you all deserve,” Marcos said.

The President bared that for years, the Philippine educational system did not have higher positions and clear pathways for advancement, many public-school teachers had very limited opportunities for promotion.

“It took 10 to 20 years for a teacher to progress from Teacher I to Teacher III. Iyong nakasama po natin 30 taon naghintay, ang iba decades – three decades. And another equally lengthy period to move from Teacher III to Master Teacher I.  Because of this, many educators left and pursued administrative positions to receive higher compensation,” Marcos noted.

The Expanded Career Progression System and teachers’ welfare

Marcos added that to overcome these hurdles, the government implemented the Expanded Career Progression or ECP System for public school teachers, institutionalizing this reform in September 2025.  “I did this by signing into law the Career Progression System for Public School Teachers and the School Leaders Act,” the president added.

Under the ECP System, the teachers now have two clear pathways for advancement: Classroom Teaching and School Administration. More importantly, it created many positions such as Teacher IV to VII, Master Teacher V to VI, and School Principal V, providing teachers a clear career path and more opportunities.

Through reclassification, from August of 2025 to February 2026, the government has successfully promoted nearly 19,500 teachers and school heads all over the country. Today, in Cebu, Marcos bared that more than 300 teachers and principals, including 57 teachers who are about to retire.

“We also implemented several programs to promote teachers’ welfare. We have created over 61,500 teaching positions from 2022 to 2025. As of January 2026, 97 percent of these positions have already been filled,” PBBM revealed.

He said, to address the administrative burdens that are being placed on teachers, the government created non-teaching positions: 23,500 Administrative Officer (AO) II positions and 1,500 Project Development Officer I (PO) positions during the same period and as of January, this year, almost 100 percent of these positions have already also been filled.

Starting School Year of last year until 2026, the government also released the full PhP10,000 teaching allowance, the president said.  All of this has opened new doors for career advancement for teachers and for school personnel, the government is addressing long-standing barriers to professional growth, strengthening morale within our education sector, Marcos added. (Photos: Sec.Angara Facebook/Google Images)

 

 

 

PBBM inspects, leads turnover of Learning Continuity Space in Cebu

BOGO CITY -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. with Education Secretary Sonny Angara, led the turnover and inspection on Monday, March 16 of the Learning Continuity Space (LCS) at the Marcelo B. Fernan-Polambato Elementary School in Bogo City, Cebu as part of government initiatives to support learning continuity following the devastating September 2025 earthquake in Cebu province.

The modular classrooms, costing approximately P1.65 million each, were designed to protect students and teachers and can withstand extraordinary conditions and each LCS can accommodate 40 students.

Built using durable steel structures, the LCS is equipped with a solar power supply, an Internet connection, and a comfort room in every unit, according to its proponents, Internet connectivity is important for children’s digital learning and for ensuring easy access to other online educational resources.

Aside from inspecting the LCS at the Marcelo B. Fernan-Polambato Elementary School, President Marcos also led the rollout of the YAKAP at Kalinga Caravan during the visit.  The initiatives support learning continuity and provide primary healthcare services to students, teachers, and the local community. (Photos: RTVM/Google Images)

PBBM inaugurates Mactan Expo Center in Lapu-Lapu City

LAPU-LAPU CITY – President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. led the inauguration of the Mactan Expo Center today, March 16 at the Mactan Expo Center site at the Newtown Mactan in Lapu-lapu City with Megaworld Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, President and CEO of Alliance Global Group, Kevin Tan with Congressman Ahong Chan, Lapulapu mayor Cindi Chan and other guests.

“This is for MICE and Lapu-lapu City is lucky that you have it in here in your town because this will be a big draw for all kinds of activities,” PBBM said, in his keynote message, recognizing that there are things that the private sector does well and partnership with the private sector to get things done in speed and well.

Cebu is well known around the world, Marcos said and the reason for that is not only because Cebu is a beautiful place, but its warmth, its generosity, kindness, continues to show the world the true meaning of Filipino hospitality. “Now, pinapalakas natin ang turismo sa Cebu dito sa pagbukas nitong Mactan Expo,” the president added.

The Mactan Expo Center, its tourism impact

The Mactan Expo Center is a state-of-the-art convention facility and a two-level standalone center located in The Mactan Newtown, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines designed to host large-scale international events, including meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).

Its key features include the main plenary hall that can accommodate over 2,500 guests, with a pillar-free design for unobstructed views.  Facilities are spacious pre-function areas, exclusive VIP rooms, meeting rooms, and a showroom.

The Expo Center is very accessible, near Mactan-Cebu International Airport (10-15 minutes away) and adjacent to resorts and hotels. Its design incorporates Cebuano artistry and cultural references, featuring local textures, marine motifs, and indigenous craft patterns.

The Expo Center hosted its first major event, the ASEAN Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) in February and will host the 48th ASEAN Leaders' Summit in May 2026.  It is expected to boost tourism, business, and investments in the region, creating economic opportunities for local communities.

The Mactan Expo Center was built by Megaworld Corporation, a leading property developer in the Philippines, as part of its 30 Expo Center, which is part of The Mactan Newtown, a 30-hectare mixed-use development.

“This is a big boost to our tourism industry. We have to develop our tourism industry. We have such competition around our region.  But we have the single advantage. And that is what we have come to call in the tourism industry here in the Philippines – the Filipino smile. And that is something that everybody appreciates,” PBBM said.

The President congratulated and thanked the Megaworld with Kevin Tan for putting up this facility, “not only is it good looking, it is functional and it is ready, it is open for business. And so, all we now have to do is to get ourselves organized, make sure that everything goes well. And so long as we get a good start with the ASEAN Summit which begins on the 8th of May, then I'm sure that there's nowhere to go but up,” Marcos concluded. (Photos: Google Images/Mactan Newtown FB/IG)

 

Ford Philanthropy, GK launch disaster preparedness hub in Cebu

TALISAY CITY, Cebu— Ford Motor Company’s Ford Philanthropy and Gawad Kalinga (GK) launched on March 13 a “Disaster Preparedness Hub” at the Mananga Riverside GK Village community in Talisay City, Cebu Province as part of Ford’s ongoing community service programs, which have been in partnership with Gawad Kalinga since 2013.

“Ford Philanthropy is the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, focusing on supporting communities where they work, the organization partners with local organizations like Gawad Kalinga and dealers to bring in resources, including employees and dealer volunteers, vehicles, and support,” said Jane Holloway, Senior Manager, Ford Philanthropy.

Ford dealers assist in logistics and manpower, ensuring they are always ready to help in times of need, such as earthquakes or typhoons. Ford Philanthropy is not limited to transportation; it involves bringing all company resources to help communities, including building capabilities in hard-to-reach areas, Holloway shared.

Dan Bercasio, Executive Director of Gawad Kalinga bared that the “Disaster Preparedness Hub” at the Mananga Riverside, Talisay City is a partnership project with Ford Philanthropy after this GK Village here was severely hit by typhoon Tino in 2025.

“Gawad Kalinga has built around 3,000 communities across the Philippines, focusing on community development and disaster preparedness. Ford's involvement has been crucial in providing infrastructure, such as water systems, and enabling access to remote areas,” Bercasio said.

The “Disaster Preparedness Hub at GK Village in Mananga Riverside aims to provide support and resources for disaster preparedness and response in the community, especially because this community is situated beside the Mananga River which overflowed every time there are typhoons.

One of the GK beneficiaries recalled the Village’s nightmare during typhoon Tino where flood waters were strong and rose above there heads and most of their houses and belongings were destroyed.  “There was no place, like a multi-purpose building where people can temporarily stay, help one another,” a villager said.

Ford has been involved in various community development projects, including building homes, providing access to clean water, and offering medical and dental services, always in partnerships with communities like Gawad Kalinga, said Andre Borromeo, general manager, Fairlane Automotive Ventures, Inc, a Ford dealer in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Bercasio shared that during disasters, Ford's support has allowed Gawad Kalinga to act as first responders, aiding communities and even helping others. The partnership has been instrumental in strengthening communities and preparing them for future crises.

During typhoon Tino, GK beneficiaries at Mananga Riverside in Talisay City acknowledged how Ford helped build a water system for the community, which significantly improved the lives of residents who previously had to walk long distances to fetch water.

The partnership with Gawad Kalinga has enabled Ford to reach remote areas with no roads, demonstrating the power of collaboration, highlighting the importance of inviting partners and friends to support community efforts.

Ford and GK underscored the mutual benefits of the partnership, enhancing community resilience and response capabilities.  The Disaster Preparedness Hub is a project where Ford and GK can explore ways to further work together before a disaster strike to better prepare and respond.

The hub also secures community health and activities with the GK community in the area.  It now becomes a place where the GK Villagers can conduct disaster preparedness training with other Gawad Kalinga communities and simulate joint disaster response before a disaster strikes. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cebu hosts Pickle Fest 2026 with Young Aces Eye Asia on spotlight

CEBU CITY – Pickleball Championship League (PCL)-Asia hosts the Pickle Fest 2026 in Cebu, bannered by the PCL Rising Stars Under-19 Sectional Tournament, beginning March 11-14 at Net and Paddle courts at Sawang Calero, Cebu City, after the successful play in Davao City and in Manila.

Organizers believe Cebu’s hosting is both a celebration of the sport’s roots and a launching pad for its future. Pickleball’s growth over the last decade has been nothing short of phenomenal. From a single introductory clinic in Cebu to more than 320 clubs nationwide, the sport has truly captured the imagination of Filipino athletes, PCL Chairman Steve Kuhn said, in a press conference, March 10 at the Net and Paddle court facility.

“The successful staging in Davao showed the level of organization and talent we now have. With PCL Asia supporting the sectional pathway, our young players are no longer just competing locally — they are preparing to shine on the regional stage. The potential of our Filipino youth in pickleball is immense, and Cebu’s homecoming edition will once again prove that we can compete and excel in Asia,” said Richard Bachman, KAVC Operations Director.

The Young Aces Eye Asia team of four players, dreaming of bigger stages, are on the spotlight at the Pickle Fest 2026 Cebu.  Backed by PCL Asia, the Rising Stars U19 Sectional Tournament offers more than medals and bragging rights, it provides a structured development pathway for young athletes — featuring standardized rules, regional qualifiers, and cross-border competition culminating in a coveted berth to the PCL Asia Grand Finals on Hainan Island this April.

The recent Davao leg underscored the depth of emerging Filipino talent. Team Velaris, composed of Shesha Bree Biñas, Chrystelle Marjh Elisan, Izzy Lacida and Jacob Cagas edged the SABR squad 23-21 in a thrilling finale at Pickletown to clinch the gold medal and secure a slot in the Asia Grand Finals, Bachman shared.

Along with the qualification came a US$1,000 development grant from the Asia Elite Pickleball Academy, plus full support from PCL Asia covering airfare, accommodations and local transportation.   With registration ongoing, parents, schools, clubs and local communities are encouraged to rally behind the athletes and take part in what promises to be a landmark moment for the sport, Bachman added.

While the U19 division serves as the centerpiece, adult categories, from Novice to Low and High Intermediate and the Open division continue to fuel rivalries in men’s, women’s and mixed doubles, reflecting the sport’s expanding reach across age groups and skill levels, Tournament Director Ceasar Guinto told media.

Guinto said, Pickleball’s unique blend of tennis, badminton and table tennis played on a compact court with paddles and a perforated ball, has made it both accessible and intensely strategic. “The sport emphasizes reflexes, touch and teamwork as much as power.  Its inclusive nature has allowed schools, clubs and communities to quickly adopt the sport, accelerating its nationwide footprint,” he explained.

Also featured during the festival are adult competitions across all skill levels, underscoring pickleball’s inclusive appeal. Categories include:Newbie (2.0–2.99); Low Intermediate (3.0–3.49); High Intermediate (3.5–3.99) and Open Division

Events are held in men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles across 20+, 35+, and 50+ age brackets.  Registration fees are set at P12,000 for the U19 Rising Stars category and P3,000 for adult divisions.

For registration and details, visit: https://picklefest.kosmas.com.ph/ Participants may also follow the Pickle Fest 2026 Facebook page and PCL Asia channels for update. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

IFBA Singapore sees Cebu’s launchpad for local chocolate in the culinary world map

CEBU CITY—The International Food and Beverage Association (IFBA)-Singapore sees Cebu’s potential to become a global hospitality hub, leveraging unique culinary experiences with the local chocolate, called ‘Sikwate” to attract international partners and elevate Cebu’s position on the world map.

In a press conference on March 9, at the Casa de Cacao-The Chocolate Chamber (TCC), Casals Village in Mabolo, Cebu City, IFBA-Singapore president Cheong Hai Poh and Derrick Lee, Honorary President of the International Bartender Association (IBA) suggested a multi-polar system of alliances with all the cacao and chocolate entrepreneurs and stakeholders in Cebu.

Hai Poh asked about the significance of the Chocolate Chamber, especially in the context of other chambers like the Mandawi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) and the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) to connect global hospitality professionals and foster innovation.

“Cebu has all the necessary ingredients to support this initiative, with a growing industry sector and unique culinary creations, The Chocolate Chamber can be seen as a way to bridge global culinary culture and support Cebu's growing cacao and chocolate industry,” Hai Poh said.

He emphasized the mission of TCC to connect global hospitality professionals and build meaningful partnerships and highlighted Cebu as a city with a thriving culinary scene, with outlets that attract long queues for unique products, like the local “Sikwate” or chocolate.

Raquel Choa of The Chocolate Chamber shared that TCC aims to position Cebu on the world map by promoting its culinary culture and industry, focusing on the entire concept of passion on the local cacao by-products, especially the local “Sikwate” and how it can be used to elevate Cebu's position globally.

Strategic growth and trust in Asia-Pacific

Hai Poh talked about the long-term courtship of business in general, emphasizing the growth potential in Asia Pacific, particularly in Singapore which is highlighted as a stable and trustworthy market, making it a promising destination for brand expansion.

 

He advised TCC to establish its presence in Singapore first, leveraging the country's reputation for trustworthiness and mentioned the importance of Derrick Lee, the Honorary President of the International Bartender Association (IBA) in managing finance and supporting the IFBA, that could also be the key player in promoting TCC’s local chocolate as a unique beverage in the Asia-Pacific region.

Both IFBA and IBA suggested TCC and the “chocolate alliance” to establish and outline the strategic plan to create a Chocolate Academy in Singapore, which will bring a new perspective to the chocolate industry.

“The establishment of a chocolate chamber cafe in Singapore is expected to set a positive tone for the rest of ASEAN countries.  The International Bartender Association (IBA) is prepared to help identify potential investors or franchisees to expand the Chocolate Chamber,” Lee said.

Lee emphasized that TCC is not just a business union but a representation of the cacao/chocolate industry, which is crucial for global outreach.  He mentioned the need for businesses to adapt to new trends and strategies, such as sourcing cacao from civil countries for reprocessing.

The discussion underscored the importance of strategic supply chain planning to ensure business continuity and cost-effectiveness, Hai Poh reiterated the need for alliances to be set up in Cebu, with Raquel Choa and other individuals as potential initiators.  The importance of forming a strong alliance with relevant authorities to drive the food culture industry forward is very crucial, Hai Poh said.

“I use the analogy of chopsticks to illustrate the strength of unity, emphasizing that a bundle of chopsticks is stronger than a single one.  There is great need for collaboration to create a cohesive and impactful movement in the food culture industry, special mention on establishing chocolate café franchises as another unique beverage hub, similar to coffee, bubble tea, others,” Hai Poh concluded.