48th ASEAN to tackle policy reforms on Myanmar

MACTAN NEWTOWN-- Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Deputy Assistant Secretary and ASEAN 2026 Spokesperson Dominic Xavier Imperial said “No consensus yet on Myanmar polls but engagement continues,” in a press briefing held on May 6 at the International Media Center in Mactan, Cebu along side Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Allan Gepty as part of coverage for the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings.

The main point, Imperial said, is that ASEAN has not reached any consensus with regard to the recognition of the results of the election in Myanmar.  Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing was elected president last month, formalizing his grip on power five years after the 2021 coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi.

ASEAN’s stance is to honor the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) to remain as the main framework for how ASEAN deals with Myanmar. The 5PC priorities include the cessation of violence + humanitarian assistance to Myanmar people and despite no consensus on the polls, there is still continued engagement within the ASEAN region with Myanmar, Imperial shared.

Why the Myanmar briefing matters?

According to Imperial, Myanmar is ASEAN’s biggest internal test: The bloc has been split on how to handle the junta since 2021. Imperial’s remarks confirm no breakthrough on election legitimacy. By reiterating the 5-Point Consensus, PH signaled it won’t abandon ASEAN’s existing peace roadmap despite pressure to take a harder line.

Imperial added that as 2026 chair, the Philippines is balancing “engagement” with Myanmar while upholding ASEAN’s principle of consensus. Current scoreboard, the 5PC still stuck, but PH used Cebu to shift from “criticism” to “confidence-building” with the Suu Kyi access.

Other ASEAN States’ response to PH’s Cebu proposal include current known positions such as Thailand is pushing for unilateral talks with Myanmar before Cebu and wants faster re-engagement.

Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore are typically hardliners and want to keep junta barred from summits until 5PC progress.  Cambodia and Laos tend to favor engagement with junta for border stability. 

Next likely updates and what to watch in Cebu is the joint statements from the May 7-8 Leaders’ Summit proper + Chairman’s Statement because this is where ASEAN formally responds to PH’s Suu Kyi proposal. Other bilateral meetings on Cebu sidelines, and the post-summit press conference from other Foreign Ministers.

 

 

 

RAPID International launches PH’s first ever EV Ambulance in Cebu

CEBU CITY – RAPID International launched in Cebu City its first ever Electric Vehicle (EV) Ambulance in the Philippines on May 4 at the Baywalk, Nustar Resort, Kawit Island in Cebu City, ensuring that this first EV ambulance is made available and committed for use at the 48^th ASEAN Leaders Summit, as already agreed with the committee.

“We are launching the first EV ambulance in the Philippines, aiming to reduce fossil fuel usage and contribute to environmental conservation while saving lives. The ambulance is a hybrid model, using both gasoline and diesel, and is equipped with basic life support as per circulars from the Department of Health (DOH),” said Rafael Enriquez, Executive Director of Rapid International Philippines and CEO of Rapid Ambulance Service and Rapid Air Ambulance, in a side interview before the launching and ribbon cutting ceremony.

Enriquez bared that RAPID is an International Organization with over 80,000 in membership.  RAPID Philippines operates its own Training Department and is currently accredited with the American Safety Health Institute (ASHI) and Department of Health (DOH) and it also operates the RAPID Ambulance Service operating over 35 ambulances and RAPID Air Ambulance with a fleet of Helicopter Ambulances and Airplane Ambulances.

RAPID is a Multi-Awarded and International Civic Humanitarian Organization with its umbrella organization operating as RAPID International Organization, with Volunteers and its Regular Force.  RAPID International Organization is a member of Air-Ambulance.org. It operates its own Ambulance Service with its website: RAPID-Ambulance.com. Always Ready 24/7 "To serve and save lives,” Enriquez added.

“RAPID Philippines was established on August 8, 2008 and today is present in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and has expanded to multiple countries across the globe. This first EV ambulance is the evolution from a single land ambulance to a fleet including fixed-wing and helicopter services,” said Allan Librando, National Chancellor of RAPID International.

Librando expressed pride in RAPID’s dynamic leadership and innovation and expansion from one ambulance to multiple land, air, and sea units and also marking the Philippines' first electric vehicle ambulance.

The launch of the country's first EV ambulance marks a significant step forward in innovation and sustainability for emergency services. The Auto Group, supplier of the EV ambulance celebrates Rapid International's commitment to community service and looks forward to a future where technology enhances emergency response.

Officials of RAPID International said that the introduction of the EV ambulance is described as a bold step towards innovation and a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable service. They envisioned a future where innovation meets service, and technology supports humanity.

“The goal is to build a faster, stronger, and more responsive future for communities, with Rapid International leading the way.  The introduction of the EV ambulance is our testament to innovation and sustainability, and the importance of technology in supporting humanity and building a better future in rescue and disaster response,” Librando said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

ICM opens for the 48th ASEAN Summit, NOC outlines Summit focus

MACTAN NEWTOWN -- The International Media Center (ICM) officially opens in Lapu-Lapu, Cebu, welcoming local and international media covering the 48th ASEAN Summit and related meetings, as the central hub for coverage that provides journalists with the space and support to report, broadcast, and tell the story of a Summit that brings the region together at a critical time.

“President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who chairs this year’s ASEAN, is set to meet with leaders of ASEAN member states--Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam for the biannual summit, where pressing issues such as regional security, energy and food concerns, safety of ASEAN nationals and economic cooperation are expected to be discussed,” bared Hellen De La Vega, ASEAN 2026 National Organizing Council Director General for Operations.

De La Vega outlined the focus of the first summit on the Middle East crisis, including energy security, food security, and safe mobility for ASEAN nationals.  The Philippines' government agencies are working on strategic priorities under the ASEAN political security community pillar, led by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), with a framework called LEAD ASEAN.

For the ASEAN Economic Community pillar, led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the strategic priority framework is called SAIL ASEAN, focusing on trade and investment linkages, digital transformation, MSME development, creative economy, and sustainable and inclusive economies, De La Vega shared.

The ASEAN social, cultural community pillar, led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, has the strategic framework of RISE ASEAN, focusing on resilient and empowered families, inclusive development, smart youth and innovation, and environmentally sustainable food security.

According to De La Vega, the National Organizing Council has implemented a virtual meeting system at the Philippine International Convention Center, completing over 50 virtual preparatory meetings and scheduling 174 more to support the upcoming summit and address potential bad weather.

“We are inviting the media to stay at the IMC for the longest availability of coffee and to learn about the strategic priorities of LEAD, SAIL, and RISE ASEAN,” De La Vega said.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Dave Gomez on the other hand assured that it’s “All Systems Go” for ASEAN Summit.  He is confident that with adequate facilities, the IMC can provide a more comfortable environment for local and international media.

“More than 500 journalists ang magko-cover ng event, based from the accreditation numbers namin. Beginning today, magdadatingan na ‘yung mga kaibigan natin from the international media,” Gomez said. (Photos: MBCNewman & PND)

 

 

 

 

 

Converge powers PH’s hosting of ASEAN meetings

CEBU CITY -- Converge ICT Solutions Inc. was named an official connectivity partner of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for the Philippines’ hosting of key meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), providing 1-gigabit to 5-gigabit speed connectivity in meeting venues and key locations nationwide.

“We are proud to showcase our world-class connectivity to thousands of foreign delegates and Filipino government and business leaders gathering across the country for the slate of ASEAN meetings that the Philippines is hosting this year,” said Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy.

From the airports to meeting venues, Converge is supporting the ASEAN meetings with gigabit connectivity. Converge will also provide uninterrupted, 5-gigabit speeds to the biggest event in this series of meetings, the 48th ASEAN Summit, to be held in the newly-opened Mactan Expo Center this May, Uy added.

“Hosting the ASEAN Summit is a monumental undertaking that puts the eyes of the entire region on us, and seamless connectivity is the backbone of its success. We extend our deepest gratitude to Converge for their unwavering support and world-class service. Their commitment ensured that our delegates remained connected, proving once again that we can achieve great things through Digital Bayanihan and meet the highest international standards,” said DICT Secretary Henry Aguda.

Converge has so far powered up 11 sites across Metro Manila and Cebu. Aside from the Mactan Expo Center, Converge will also be deploying fiber-fast connectivity to selected hosting venues such as five-star hotels NuStar Integrated Hotel and Casino (Cebu), Diamond Hotel Manila Bay, The Peninsula Manila, and Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay, to name a few.

Underlining the importance of reliable broadband internet connectivity is the fact that the Philippines has moved 650 preparatory meetings online in the face of the national emergency on fuel. The 48th ASEAN Summit, where all leaders from the 11 member nations will be present, will continue as a face-to-face event.

“In line with our mission to utilize technology for the good of all, we will continue to strengthen our fiber network in Visayas and Mindanao. Like we’ve announced, we plan to roll out many more ports there this year to increase service coverage. This fortified network allows us to serve expansive venues such as the Mactan Expo Center and several hotels in Cebu,” Uy said.

Moreover, for delegates to experience brisk connectivity upon touchdown, Converge has fully opened the 10 Gbps capacity across all its access points in Ninoy Aquino International Airport terminals one, two, and three.

The Philippines’ hosting of ASEAN this year encompasses nearly all committee and working group meetings, up to the ministerial level and the Summit to be attended by the Heads of State of ASEAN members. (Photos: Google Images)

 

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)