Senator Chiz files bill to strengthen anti-drunk and drugged driving law

CEBU CITY – Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero filed Senate Bill No. 2078, “An Act Strengthening Mechanisms Against Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, Dangerous Drugs, and Other Similar Substances,” amending Republic Act 10586 or the Anti‑Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013 and to strengthen the country’s anti‑drunk and drugged driving law in response to mounting calls from road‑safety advocates and victims’ families for tougher enforcement and accountability.

Escudero said, bill intends to close enforcement gaps that have led to downgraded cases and delayed justice in fatal crashes such as the case that claimed the life of 23‑year‑old Cebuano entrepreneur Kingston Ralph Cheng early this year.

“Hindi dapat nagiging butas ng batas ang mabagal o kulang na aksyon sa mga insidente ng pagmamanehong lasing,” he stressed, adding that the bill directly addresses public frustration over weak enforcement, and the decade-old law must be updated to reflect present‑day realities and ensure swift, credible testing after road incidents.

This bill is about saving lives and restoring public trust in the law, citing the Cheng case in Cebu as a mirror of the lack of justice and trust to the country’s law enforcement capabilities.  The 19-hour delay in the conduct of the sobriety test and no breathalyzer/blood test after the crush, weakened the DUI charge against the suspect, Sean Andrew Pajarillo.

Cebu City lacked objective alcohol testing equipment and doctors used only the “Romberg test” — asking suspect to stand and checking if he sways and the NBI finding that the City lacks an objective alcohol test, this gap according to the NBI weakened the DUI charge against Pajarillo.

The result, Pajarillo tested negative for alcohol despite witness accounts and CCTV showing him leaving a bar intoxicated. Escudero bared that under SB 2078, law‑enforcement officers would be required to conduct field sobriety, breath, chemical, and drug screening tests within two hours of a crash resulting in injury or death. The bill also introduces administrative sanctions for officers who fail or refuse to perform these tests within the prescribed period to ensure accountability and compliance.

It further sets clear and definitive blood‑alcohol concentration thresholds anchored on vehicle type and driver classification, increases penalties under RA 10586 to restore the law’s deterrent effect while keeping sanctions proportionate, and upholds the integrity and reliability of evidence by minimizing opportunities for evasion or delay, the Senator noted.

Cebu advocates shout for Cheng’s justice

Senator Chiz acting urgently on the measure would honor victims like Cheng by ensuring that impaired driving is met with swift, consistent, and credible enforcement, he added that his bill mirrored the stricter thresholds outlined in House Bill 8939 filed recently by Cebu City Rep. and House Deputy Majority Leader Eduardo Rama Jr., which proposes a 0.00 percent limit for high‑risk groups and a 0.02 percent limit for private motorists.

Kingston's mother, Katherine Cheng said “no amount of remorse can bring him back” and wants case to prevent future tragedies.  The Cheng case is now on trial, but delays in sobriety testing, lack of breathalyzers, and evidence-sharing issues slowed proceedings.

The bottom line is Pajarillo remains out on bail while NBI and Ombudsman run separate probes into enforcement lapses. The family continues to reject “special treatment” claims and pushes for conviction + legal reforms.

“Kung may nasaktan o namatay, dapat awtomatiko at mabilis ang pagsusuri. Hindi puwedeng hintayin pang mawala ang ebidensya bago kumilos,” Escudero said and anti-drunk drugged driving advocates in Cebu as well as other parts of the country want this bill approved the soonest time. (Photos: FB & Google Images)

 

 

 

Cebu shows resilience, readiness for ASEAN Summit 2026

CEBU CITY -- A year after a major earthquake tested its foundations, Cebu is set to rise on the regional stage as it hosts key events for the ASEAN Summit 2026, with the “Queen City of the South” positioning itself as proof that beauty, business, and resilience can thrive together.

The Cebu Provincial government, the cities of Cebu , Mandaue and Lapu-lapu, national agencies and the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) are aligning to welcome ASEAN ministers, investors, and dignitaries in the first quarter of 2026.  

While Manila remains the main summit venue, Cebu hosts high-level meetings on trade, creative industries, disaster resilience, and MSME development — sectors where the province has both expertise and a story to tell.

Cebu’s hosting comes just over a year after a strong quake in late 2025 shook parts of Central Visayas, damaging heritage structures and temporarily disrupting business in downtown Cebu City and parts of the south. But local leaders say the recovery has become part of Cebu’s pitch-- “As beautiful as ever” after the quake.

 “ASEAN will see that the Queen City of the South is as beautiful as ever — and stronger.  We rebuilt schools, churches, and markets faster because government and private sector moved as one. That’s the Cebuano spirit we want ASEAN to experience,” said Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival.  

Engineers and urban planners from Japan and Singapore who assisted in post-quake retrofitting will join a resilience forum during the Cebu leg.  Delegates are set to tour the newly reinforced Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, Fort San Pedro, and upgraded port facilities at Cebu International Port — all symbols of a city that preserved heritage while modernizing.

Cebu’s might: Trade, tech, and creatives

Under the theme “ASEAN: Connected, Resilient, Creative,” Cebu’s agenda leans into its economic strengths. The province contributes roughly six percent to national GDP and anchors the Visayas trade corridor.

Trade and logistics: With Cebu International Container Port (CICP) expansion and the Metro Cebu Expressway gaining ground, Cebu will showcase itself as a transshipment hub. A ministerial meeting on ASEAN supply chain integration is slated at NUSTAR Convention Center.

Creative industries: Home to game development studios, animators, and BPO-backed design firms, Cebu will host the ASEAN Creative Economy Dialogue that aims to position Cebuano talent as the region’s go-to for outsourcing and original IP.

 “From furniture to film, Cebu creates,” said CCCI President, Regan Rex King.

MSMEs and tourism: Post-quake tourism rebounded to 95% of pre-quake arrivals by Q4 2025, driven by Mactan-Cebu International Airport Terminal 2 and new direct flights.  A showcase on “Disaster-Resilient Tourism” will highlight how small resorts and tour operators bounced back, according to DOT-7 regional director Gelena Impas.

Security, infrastructure ready

The Philippine National Police Region (PNP-7) and AFP Central Command confirmed full security deployment, citing Cebu’s track record hosting APEC 2015 and ASEAN 2017 meetings. Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) has completed its ASEAN Fast Lane for delegates, while hotels from SRP to Mactan have been accredited under DOT’s “ASEAN-Ready” program.

Road upgrades along S. Osmeña Blvd. and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) will ease delegate movement. “We’ve stress-tested our traffic and emergency response systems since the quake. We’re ready,” said Office of Civil Defense (OCD-7) regional director, Joel Mamon.

For Cebuano business leaders, the summit is more than pageantry. The Philippines is pushing to cut its $2.3-billion pharmaceutical trade deficit and grow local manufacturing--goals where Cebu’s PEZA zones and planned “Pharmazones” play a role.  ASEAN meetings here will also tackle healthcare supply chains, a nod to lessons from both the pandemic and the 2025 quake.

“Hosting ASEAN is Cebu’s chance to show we’re not just a tourist spot. We’re a manufacturing base, a creative hub, and a model for bouncing back,” said a Cebuano businessman.

“We are capable,” said Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro emphasizing the importance of cooperation among government agencies, local government units, and the public in demonstrating Cebu’s capability as an international host.

Asked what to showcase to ASEAN delegates, Baricuatro cited lechon as a top choice, saying it reflects the province’s rich food heritage and hospitality, while Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival cited “Security remains the top priority,” adding that maintaining cleanliness and smooth traffic flow is equally crucial.

Archival has ordered a massive cleanup drive and infrastructure improvements to present the city as a model of urban discipline ahead of the ASEAN Tourism Forum. Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Ouano Jr. cited ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including road asphalting, improved street lighting, and solar installations along key transit routes.

“This is a momentous event. Cebu is featured among all the 82 provinces. Cebu has been chosen. That alone will inspire us to do our best, and let’s be hospitable to our guests. If there are delegates, give them a smile. Give them the warmest Cebuano welcome,” said the governor.

As banners go up along Osmeña Blvd. and Sinulog-style welcome dances are rehearsed, Cebu’s message to ASEAN is clear: The Queen City endured, rebuilt, and is ready to lead. The summit runs from in Manila, with Cebu hosting key ASEAN 2026 meetings on May 5-9, including the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit.

The International Media Center opens on May 5 at the Mactan World Museum.  Over 10,200 security personnel mobilized and due to the Middle East oil crisis, 650 preparatory meetings went virtual to save costs. (Photos: MBCNewman/Google Images)

Cebu Business Month 2026, builds momentum for Cebu’s biz sector

CEBU CITY – The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) launched its flagship project, the “Cebu Business Month (CBM) 2026” to build momentum for a more focused and future-ready Cebu with lineup of events to begin on May 22, 2026 and ends on November 25, 2026.

“When we say CBM 2026, we are not simply talking about a series of events on a calendar. We are talking about a movement: an intentional, coordinated, and collective effort to mobilize the full strength of Cebu’s business community toward something far greater than any one of us alone,” shared Bryan Yap, CBM 2026 chair, in his opening message at the press conference and launching event on April 24 at the Savoy Hotel Pavilion at Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City.

Yap bared that despite the uncertainties, CCCI put together a rich calendar of events: from summits on investment, technology, and tourism, to platforms that celebrate our youth, our creativity, and our identity as a city of good design and good business.

CCCI president, Regan Rex King emphasized that CBM is an apolitical organization that focuses on promoting Cebu and the Philippines to foster a thriving society, despite political noise. The organization remains committed to its mission regardless of external distractions.

“CBM has evolved from promoting messages to addressing economic needs, highlighting its adaptability, and we, at the Chamber continues to build Cebu’s business momentum with the “Padayon Cebu” slogan, a statement of humility and unity,” King told Manila Standard in a side interview after the press conference.

CBM 2026 events overview

Yap said that this year’s CBM is the 30^th year and it’s not just about continuing programs, it is about strengthening what already works—and pushing it further where it matters most. CBM 2026 officialy opens with the general membership meeting and induction of new officers and trustees on May 22, 2026 at the Skyhall, SM Seaside City Cebu. This event brings together CCCI members and partners in a unified start to the month-long program ahead.

BAICON 2026, is a major gathering of creators and digital influencers, highlighting the continued growth of the country’s digital entertainment and content economy to be held on May 29-31 at the Mactan Newtown.

Investment and Entrepreneurship Summit, A focused discussion between investors, business leaders, and MSMEs on real opportunities for growth, funding, and collaboration, on June 4, 2026 at the Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu.

Technology and Innovation Forum, A practical look at how emerging technologies, including AI, are being used in real business settings, on June 18 (venue:TBD).  This will be preceded by SOLUTIONFEST, where innovators develop solutions to real challenges in partnership with local government units.

Tourism and MICE Summit, a platform that highlights Cebu as a complete tourism and MICE destination, with a focus on strengthening coordination across the sector, on June 25, venue: TBD. 

July 2-4 usher in Business-in-Golf (BIG) Tournament at the Liloan Golf and Leisure.  This is an annual networking event that brings together business leaders in a more informal setting where relationships are strengthened outside of boardrooms.

Good Design, Good Business Summit follows on July 16-18 at the Oakridge Business Park & select sites. This is a three-day summit showing how design, planning, and infrastructure influence long-term business growth and community development.

A Youth Summit, Business Icons Gallery and Consumer Expo to happen on July 24-25 at the SM Seaside City Cebu, with a gathering that connects young leaders with established business icons, alongside a consumer expo featuring local brands and entrepreneurs.

CBM 2026 ends with the Grand Chamber Awards and Fellowship Night on November 25 (Venue;TBD).  This is a recognition night honoring individuals, families, and organizations that have contributed to Cebu’s business and economic development.

CCCI president Regan King emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and investment in shaping Cebu's future, adding that CBM 2026 is not just an event series, involving various stakeholders like investors, entrepreneurs, and youth, is a movement.

“We acknowledge the significance of the CBM champions and the collective effort to make Cebu more connected, competitive, and compassionate. The event is a declaration of Cebu's proactive stance in shaping its own future,” King said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DENR-EMB 7 lifts CDO of Binaliw landfill operation with strict environmental safety conditions

CEBU CITY-- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources--Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB 7) lifted the Cease and Desist Order (CDO) against Prime Integrated Waste Management Inc. for its Binaliw Sanitary Landfill Project on condition that the company must continue to meet the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) requirements to ensure incidents like the previous trash slide do not recur, and the completion of rehabilitation and stabilization work remains the top priority.

EMB Regional Director Atty. John Edward Ang said that the partial lifting is conditional after the company met key remediation and operational commitments. “Cebu has an urgent need for a functional waste disposal facility to handle the city’s waste, and our decision followed a careful evaluation of the company’s compliance measures that of balanced environmental safeguards with practical necessity.”

The partial lifting is conditional on continued adherence to the agreed rehabilitation plan and other mitigation measures, said Ang and EMB7 advised local officials for continued monitoring and further compliance checks as the facility completes stabilization and site restoration work.

EMB 7 issued an amendment, on March 31, 2026 to the project’s ECC allowing additional engineered components to strengthen the facility’s operational safety. These include the development of a new cell at the toe of the landfill (approximately 14,000 square meters with a capacity of 90,524 metric tons) and an interim cell (2,746 square meters with a capacity of 19,470.83 metric tons), among other enhancements.

The EMB also recognized the certification issued by the Local Government of Cebu, expressing its consent to the proposed operational modifications and rehabilitation strategies necessary for the facility’s recommissioning. This was further supported by the Sanggunian Bayan through Resolution No. 17-2624-2026.

It may be recalled that on February 23, 2026 the local council formally sought the assistance of DENR Region 7 to expedite the compliance of Prime Integrated Waste Management Inc. with rehabilitation requirements, enabling the safe resumption of operations under stricter environmental and safety protocols.

“This Office remains committed to closely monitoring the facility—particularly in terms of waste inputs and outputs.  We conduct regular site inspections to ensure that stabilization measures meet required standards and that leachate is properly managed,” Ang assured the public that strict monitoring remains in place.

He further emphasized the importance of multi-sectoral oversight and that his office continues to engage other stakeholders, including local government units and non-government organizations to actively participate in monitoring activities and help ensure full compliance and safety in all operations. (Photos: Google Images/Manila Standard)

 

 

 

All systems go for security, safety preparations for the ASEAN Summit in Cebu

CEBU CITY – Cebu is all set to host the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Leaders’ Summit, as the local organizing committee assured that security, traffic, and venue preparations are in place with the collective effort and dedication to represent the country well, expressing full confidence in the readiness for the high-level gathering in May.

“From a scale of 1 to 100, I would say we are 101% prepared in terms of security and safety of the delegates and guests in time for the ASEAN Summit with the high-level cooperation and coordination from civilians, national, regional, and local agencies, which has been crucial in ensuring smooth operations,” PCOL. Kim Molitas, PRO-7 ASEAN Spokesperson told this writer at the press briefing on security preparations, April 28 at the Capitol.  

Molitas confidently asserted that the preparations are at a maximum level, citing a year of experience and successful hosting of previous events, highlighting the provision of necessary documents and support from various authorities, including governors, mayors, and uniform services.

 

                                Security package and convoy run

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Presidential Security Command (PSC) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) explained that security protocols for high-level delegates, including the design of a specific security package comprising motorcycles, vehicles, backup vehicles, and possibly an ambulance are all in place to ensure the safety of heads of state and other ministers from their hotels to meeting areas.

“The convoy run is a practice to assess travel times and adjust routes for optimal security, not for VIP treatment but a security preparation.  It aims to maintain normalcy in daily operations while accommodating VIP travel. Post-convoy run assessments help in modifying routes and security measures as needed,” said Col. Joel Benedict Batara of the AFP.

The security team may need to break some rules to ensure the travel is as short as possible, and the convoy run helps in adjusting routes and security preparations based on assessments, said Col. Bert Nioda of the PSC adding that security preparation for these high-level events needs intelligence augmentation, contingency planning, and community information sharing.

“Key points included the adoption of Threat Assessment since last year, joint intelligence briefings at local, regional, and national levels, and the readiness of personnel from various regions,” Col. Nioda said.

Emergency preparedness, response and medical emergencies are also crucial in the preparations. Office of Civil Defense (OCD-7) regional director, Joel Mamon explained that the team issued emergency response readiness, with heightened alert status among hospitals and university units.

The OCD, DOH team discussed about mitigation and maintenance response, coordinating with partners and agencies, and the deployment of staging areas, and mentioned the ongoing preparedness activities with various agencies and the capacitation of the security sector.

“Tabletop exercises and contingency planning with the Philippine National Police is important, including the expected percentage increase in power during the event and the possibility of outages,” Mamon said.

The team also look into the availability of delivery hotels and the movements of delegates, with tour packages available for delegates, including options for free or post-meeting tours and the possibility of delegates visiting other regions and islands, emphasizing the need for readiness.

               Preparation for ASEAN Summit and meeting venues

The local organizing committee conducted technical inspections with partners to assess the readiness of facilities for reliable power supply, including the Mantan Expo Center, the international media center, and the Shangri-La hotel.

Key findings include the Mactan Expo Center operating at 85% capacity, the need for road management and supplemental generation, and the implementation of N1 contingency measures to ensure reliable, stable, and secure power supply for the ASEAN Summit events.

Airport preparations include increased personnel and a lounge for guests. Implement the airport reception plan by deploying additional personnel at four bases and four terminals to handle approximately 3,000-5,000 arriving guests, with special attention to early and late flights, using briefings already conducted.

Inspections of venues and hotels are underway, with a focus on standards and guest services. Manpower is being deployed to ASEAN information desks at hotels, with shifts starting early and late. Tour packages are ready, including Michelin-recognized restaurants and island tours. Safety and security are emphasized, with coordination with local government units and tour operators. The goal is to host the summit on May 7-8 with seamless hospitality. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

CPA grants 50% discount on remittance share of Cebu domestic cargo handling service providers

CEBU CITY – The Cebu Port Authority (CPA) approved a 50 percent discount across the board to all CPA accredited Domestic Cargo Handling Service Providers operating in the Ports of Cebu, on the Domestic Cargo Handling Share to be remitted to the Authority, effective May 11, 2026 to July 10, 2026 to help mitigate the impact of the ongoing fuel crisis affecting the cargo handling sector. 

CPA Board Resolution No. 1383-2026 passed on April 17 during the Special Board Meeting of the Cebu Port Commission, prescribed the 50% discount.  This is an additional measure to aid partner cargo handling service providers operating at various CPA managed operated ports amid the ongoing energy crisis, following the posted Memorandum Circular No. 04-2026 last April 01, 2026.

CPA general manager Francisco Comendador III said that this measure is subject to periodic review, as part of CPA’s continued support to port stakeholders and the domestic cargo sector, adding that the CPA remains committed to ensuring the continuous and efficient delivery of port services while supporting the maritime industry and the commuting public during the ongoing fuel crisis.

Comendador, in his remarks at the Marine Expo this month, he bared that initial estimates revealed that nearly P2M in revenues that had been waived for the first two days of the implementation of the discounts and the suspension of terminal fees.

As of April 26, waived fees since April 18 amounted to P4.76M, about 65 percent of which accounts from the waived Passenger Terminal fees. The effect of the waived revenue is on the net income to be remitted annually to the national government as part of its mandate being a Government Owned and Controlled Corporation (GOCC), the CPA said.

Due to the waived revenues, CPA's remittance to the National Treasury might have a significant decrease if and when the economy will not bounce back to normal or higher port traffic in the next weeks or months.

Commendor added that CPA’s loss of income will not affect the quality of services provided to passengers. The Authority ensures the uninterrupted delivery of essential port services, including infrastructure maintenance, utilities, sanitation, security and emergency response. (Photos: CPA/Google Images)

 

 

 

 

DENR-Bohol confirms nesting of a Green Sea Turtle fronting a resort in Panglao

PANGLAO, Bohol-- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-7) in Bohol called on the public and the owners of a resort in Panglao, Bohol to help adequately protect the nesting site of a Green Sea Turtle situated along the shoreline fronting Henann Resort in Tawala, Panglao, Bohol, the stretch of coast leading to Amorita Resort is well known for its Green Sea Turtle Nesting. 

“This nesting event is a positive indication that our coastal ecosystems in Bohol continue to provide support to marine biodiversity.  We're asking everyone, residents, visitors and coastal stakeholders – to help us keep this nest safe until the hatchlings make it to the sea,” said PENR Officer Wilson Henson, reminding everyone of the shared duty to protect these fragile habitats.

Green sea turtles are one of the world’s most iconic marine species and play a vital role in maintaining healthy seagrass beds and marine ecosystems. However, they are currently listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

Habitat loss, coastal development, pollution, illegal wildlife trade and climate change all threaten their populations. Thus, each successful nesting event is an important contribution to the survival of the species, Henson said.

According to Henson, local coordination channels reported first the citing of the turtle nest that was immediately confirmed by DENR-Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS), the Panglao Island Restoration and Rehabilitation Program (PIRRP), and the Philippine Coast Guard.

The nesting site lies within a known sea turtle nesting corridor along the coastal stretch going towards Libaong, highlighting the ecological importance of Panglao’s beaches as vital habitats for marine wildlife, the team added.

After confirmation, DENR Bohol responders immediately cordoned the area and established protective measures including temporary cover to prevent disturbance.  This will be replaced by a more suitable enclosure to ensure the nest is adequately protected. The management of the resort has also been advised to cut down on artificial lighting in the vicinity as too much lighting can disorient hatchlings and disturb nesting female sea turtles, Henson said.

“Every wildlife that builds a nest is a sign of hope, and also a call to action. Saving sea turtles is not only the government’s work but communities and partners working together.  With continued protection and good coastal management, we can give these species a fighting chance to survive and thrive,” DENR7 Regional Executive Director Laudemir Salac pointed out the need to work together to protect wildlife.

Henson bared that DENR and partner agencies continue to conduct regular monitoring. The eggs are believed to hatch in approximately 45 to 70 days, and heightened protection and monitoring will be put in place to ensure the safe emergence of the hatchlings.

Residents, tourists and stakeholders are urged to help protect this nesting site, and other similar sites, by not disturbing or coming into contact with the nesting area; not using flash photography and bright lights near the nesting site; disposing of waste properly to avoid marine pollution, and reporting any sightings of wildlife or concerns to local authorities.

“It's a good reminder of the fact that our coastal ecosystems are still alive and can renew themselves when they are protected.  With collective vigilance and responsible stewardship, we can ensure that these remarkable natural events continue to be witnessed by future generations,” Salac added. (Photos: DENR7 & Google Images)