Baricuatro allots P110M Kawasan Falls rehab, welcomes Balamban ecozone expansion

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro personally turned over the P110M check to Badian Mayor Jerome Christian Librando over the weekend, June 14 as part of the Cebu Provincial Government’s commitment for the rehabilitation and restoration of Kawasan Falls in Badian, an urgent need to revitalize one the most popular natural tourism attractions in Cebu.

“The rehabilitation project goes beyond tourism development. The protection of Kawasan Falls is closely linked to the welfare of local communities whose livelihoods depend on the destination. Thousands of tourism workers, local guides, transport operators, small business owners, and their families benefit from the steady flow of visitors to the area,” Baricuatro said.

Baricuatro, joined Badian mayor Librando in an inspection at the site to asses the extent of the rehabilitation work needed at the Kawasan Falls.  The rehabilitation seeks to ensure that the destination can continue to welcome visitors while preserving its natural beauty and ecological value.

 

The funds support is intended for the critical interventions at restoring the environmental integrity of Kawasan Falls, improving safety measures, and strengthening the site's resilience against future challenges, Baricuatro added.

Kawasan Falls is one of Cebu’s premier tourist destinations and it plays a critical role in the local economy of Badian and neighboring towns. The rehabilitation is expected to ensure jobs generation, strengthen sustainable tourism, and promote responsible environmental stewardship, Baricuatro noted.

“We want to ensure that Kawasan Falls is a safe and sustainable destination for future generations,” the governor said.

Meanwhile, the 64.7 hectares expansion of the West Cebu Industrial Park–Special Economic Zone (WCIP-SEZ) in Balamban, Cebu augurs well for the province’s economic growth, boosting investments, jobs and business.

“The expanded ecozone would accommodate more locators and generate greater economic activity and of course, it will generate more revenue. If we can accommodate more locators, then so much the better," Baricuatro said at her regular press briefing on June 10 at the Capitol.

Baricuatro welcomes and supports these kinds of developments, provided they are sustainable and do not come at the expense of the environment.  The additional land would help address the growing space requirements of both current and prospective investors.

The expansion of the WCIP-SEZ was formalized through Proclamation No. 1288 signed on June 3, 2026, upon the recommendation of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA). The additional area consists of two parcels of land in Barangay Buanoy, Balamban.

Baricuatro noted that with the inclusion of the new properties, the existing 540-hectare Cebu Special Economic Zone within the West Cebu Industrial Park now expands to more than 600 hectares.  The ecozone is home to Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu), Inc., and a host of other industries. (Photos: Capitol PIO & Google Images)

 

Senator Chiz suggests to explore non-tax revenue options to help support national priorities

CEBU CITY -- Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero suggests that national government should consider non‑tax revenue options, including the bidding out of exploration and production agreements over the country’s indigenous coal resources to help generate additional funds while supporting ongoing fiscal and development priorities.

Escudero made this statement as economic managers continue to study ways to strengthen revenue generation to sustain social protection programs, energy transition efforts, and long‑term fiscal stability.

Currently, several tax proposals remain under review as part of the government’s broader fiscal strategy. Among the measures being examined are adjustments to excise taxes on sweetened beverages and certain food products, the Motor Vehicle Road User’s Tax (MVRUT), and the proposed excise tax on single-use plastics (SUPs).

 

Escudero has consistently maintained that new taxes should be a last resort, emphasizing the importance of efficient revenue collection and the full utilization of existing non‑tax opportunities.

“In lieu of new taxes, the government should maximize the resources it already owns. Bidding out exploration and sharing agreements over our indigenous coal reserves is a practical way to raise revenues without imposing additional burdens on the public,” he said.

Escudero noted that the Philippines has long‑identified coal‑bearing areas in Cagayan, Isabela, and parts of South Cotabato and Sarangani, which can be offered to the private sector through transparent and competitive bidding, since these areas remain underdeveloped despite their potential to contribute to national revenues.

He explained that properly structured agreements can provide substantial upfront payments and steady annual income for the government through work program commitments and the state’s share from future production.

Escudero said his own economic estimates show the scale of the opportunity. “If done correctly and competitively, these agreements can yield up to one trillion pesos upfront, and around seventy to one hundred billion pesos every year in non‑tax revenues,” he pointed out.

He added that tapping indigenous energy resources can complement the country’s long‑term energy and development goals, and hopes that government continues to explore non‑tax options alongside existing revenue measures to help support national priorities while being mindful of the public’s capacity to absorb new taxes.

Move Better Together: The Future of Metro Cebu Transport

​Part 1: A Metro Cebu That Moves Better Together

CEBU CITY— Metro Cebu is no longer just growing—it is expanding at a pace that is steadily reshaping how people live, work, and move across the region.

Every day, thousands of commuters travel across cities from north to south and back again: from residential communities to business districts, from schools to industrial zones, and from coastal towns to inland centers of activity. This constant flow of movement reflects a thriving metropolitan economy—but it also highlights a mounting challenge that residents experience daily: worsening traffic congestion, limited transport options, and longer travel times that affect productivity and quality of life.

As urban development continues to spread outward, the pressure on Metro Cebu’s transport network becomes even more evident. Key roads are carrying volumes far beyond their intended capacity, while public transport systems struggle to fully meet the demands of a rapidly growing population. In many areas, mobility is no longer just about convenience—it has become a critical factor that shapes access to opportunities, services, and economic participation.

Recognizing this, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 7 is looking beyond traditional infrastructure solutions. Instead of focusing solely on adding or widening roads, the agency is exploring long-term transport concepts that aim to reimagine how movement happens across the entire metropolitan area.

These emerging strategies emphasize connectivity over isolated projects. The focus is on strengthening north-to-south corridors while also developing lateral mobility solutions that link cities and municipalities more efficiently. By improving how different transport systems and routes connect with one another, the goal is to create a more seamless travel experience across Metro Cebu.

This approach reflects a shift in thinking—from simply building infrastructure to building an integrated transport network. One that supports not just current demand, but anticipates future growth, population expansion, and the continued rise of urban activity across the region.

Ultimately, the vision is clear: to create a Metro Cebu that moves better together. A region where mobility is more efficient, travel is more predictable, and development is supported by a transport system designed not just for today—but for the future of a rapidly growing metropolitan center. 

SM J Mall hosts ‘NAGARE’ for “Arts from All” 2026 initiative in Cebu

CEBU CITY –The SM J Mall in Mandaue City hosted “NAGARE”, a Japanese-inspired art installation at the Izakaya Terrace on June 8, featuring nine koi fish, crafted from 5,000 collected plastic bottles for the “Arts for All 2026” initiative of SM Supermalls in the Visayas.

NAGARE is a Japanese word meaning "flow" or "current, describing the art installation with the nine koi fish moving together as one current, they represent the power of unity and the shared journey toward growth and positive change.

The koi fish, in Japanese culture is a symbol of perseverance, resilience, and transformation.  Crafted from over 5,000 plastic bottles and other discarded materials, the artwork transforms into a powerful expression of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Eric Valenzuela, SM J Mall manager, in his opening message welcomed guests, partners, artists, media, colleagues, and the public to SMJ Mall, highlighting the significance of the event, presenting it as a region-wide initiative of SM Super Malls in the Visayas, focusing on transforming community action into meaningful works of art.

“The campaign aims to foster appreciation for creativity and sustainability through collective efforts from shoppers, partners, artists, and advocates. More than 40,000 plastic bottles were gathered and transformed into nine remarkable installations across various malls in the Visayas,” Valenzuela said.

He said that SMJ Mall believes its spaces can be platformed for inspiration, learning, and positive change, beyond just shopping and leisure. The installation was created through the collaboration of artist and designer D’oro Barandino, Project Tapuk, and JCI Cebu, demonstrating how art can inspire awareness and meaningful community action to inspire a more sustainable future.

Valenzuela mentioned that Arts from All campaign received international recognition for its innovative approach to sustainability and community engagement. In 2025, the campaign earned a silver award at the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Maxi Awards, highlighting its ability to transform environmental responsibility into an immersive public art experience.

The campaign also garnered a bronze award at the Asia Pacific Stevie Awards, emphasizing the impact of turning plastic waste into art. These awards affirmed the potential of simple ideas to inspire communities and create meaningful environmental impact.

“We hope that NAGARE and the installations across SM Supermalls in the Visayas will inspire everyone to see sustainability as an opportunity for positive change,” Valenzuela added. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

Investment and Entrepreneurship Summit opens Cebu Business Month 2026

CEBU CITY – The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) officially opened its Cebu Business Month (CBM) 2026 with the “Investment and Entrepreneurship Summit” on June 4 with a call for stronger collaboration to position Cebu as a leading investment and innovation hub in the Philippines.

“The CBM 2026 Investment and Entrepreneurship Summit aims to foster intersections between investors, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and industry leaders to drive Cebu's economic growth. It emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships, entrepreneurship as a key driver for competitiveness, and the need for startups to scale,” said Harold Sy, chair of the Summit.

Sy bared that the Summit seeks to unlock immediate investment opportunities and continue the conversation through subsequent events. The ultimate goal is to turn these discussions into a movement that champions entrepreneurship as a collective focus for the Philippines' economic future.

CCCI president Regan Rex King opened the CBM 2026 Summit with a clear challenge--Cebu faces a choice - adapt to change or lead it.  With global tech disruption, shifting supply chains, and ecosystem-level competition, standing still is no longer neutral.

“Standing still means falling behind,” but King reminded delegates that Cebu isn’t starting from behind. “Built by entrepreneurs, risk-takers, and families who create opportunity, Cebu is strategically located, globally connected, and resilient,” he added.

The task now is to turn momentum into direction through CCCI’s “LEAD A-MUST with IMPACT” agenda:  Lift Cebu’s image, Engage communities for inclusive growth, Activate partnerships, and Develop talent. His call was simple - don’t be spectators, be builders. “Cebu does not wait for the future to arrive. A United Cebu helps shape it,” King noted.

King called for collective action among government, business, academe, entrepreneurs, and investors and urged stakeholders to work together in building a resilient, competitive, and future-ready Cebu.

CBM 2026 Chair Bryan Yap then translated that vision into a deliberate plan. He framed uncertainty as the starting point: the regions that win the next decade won’t be the strongest of the past, but those who see the shift coming and move deliberately.

” That is why CBM 2026 was designed as one connected master plan. Four summits, one question: Is Cebu ready for what comes next?” Yap asked. 

Starting with Investment and Entrepreneurship to capture opportunity and signal belief, then Tech & Innovation, MICE and Tourism, and Good Design, Good Business, Yap’s message built directly on King’s.

Yap highlighted the need for Cebu to adapt to changes driven by technology, investment trends, and global competition and emphasized that investment and entrepreneurship are crucial indicators of confidence in Cebu's future.

He then urged stakeholders to actively participate in shaping the province's economic direction and encouraged delegates to engage in all four CBM summits to gain a complete understanding of Cebu's development agenda. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

PH, Central Visayas economic performance outlook

CEBU CITY – The Philippine economy grew by 4.4 percent in 2025, down from 5.7 percent in 2024, with services contracting by 5.9 percent while Central Visayas, valued at 1.32 trillion, grew by 3.7 percent despite global and domestic headwinds, with key growth sectors include wholesale and retail, financial services, and human health, while manufacturing declined by 9 percent.

Evelyn Nacario-Castro, Assistant Regional Director of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev)-Region 7 presented the economic outlook of the country and Central Visayas at the Investment and Entrepreneurship Summit, June 4 at Radisson Blu Hotel hosted by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) as an opening salvo for the Cebu Business Months (CBM) 2026.

Castro went on to say that in the first quarter of 2026, growth moderated to 2.8 percent due to domestic and global pressures, including the Middle East crisis. Unemployment in Central Visayas averaged 4.59 percent, lower than the national rate of 4.68 percent.  

Inflation was higher in Central Visayas due to geopolitical tensions and disasters, while future growth depends on energy diversification, improved logistics, and policy reforms. The region aims for stable growth, managed inflation, and sustained investments, she added.

      Challenges, growth drivers, macroeconomic indicators and labor statistics

Central Visayas faced challenges such as back-to-back typhoons, flood control scandals, and declining investor confidence.  The economy is heavily services-driven at 71 percent, followed by industry at 24 percent and agriculture at 4.8 percent.

Services continue to lead growth at 5.2 percent, while agriculture declined slightly, Castro noted that major contributors to the regional economy include wholesale and retail, financial insurance activities, real estate, and human health.

On macroeconomic indicators and labor stats, the Philippines labor market saw unemployment rise from five percent in March 2026 but remains competitive regionally, with unemployment rate in Central Visayas averaged at 4.59 percent in 2025, lower than the national average of 4.68 percent.

Indicators said that underemployment in Central Visayas was consistently lower than the national level, with rates of 9.7 percent and 13.7 percent respectively.  Inflation rates were higher in Central Visayas due to geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions from disasters, the report said.

Future growth outlook, strategic priorities

According to Castro that the economy is expected to grow but is shaped by global shocks and domestic challenges.  Central Visayas is particularly inflation-sensitive due to its geography and economic structure.

Key strategic priorities include energy diversification, improving transport and supply chains, and enhancing investor confidence through policy reforms. The region must also focus on diversifying agriculture into higher value segments and investing in skills, health, and education to build a competitive workforce, the report said.

“There are three possible paths for the region: moderate growth, downside scenario, and upside scenario.  In the baseline scenario, growth is expected to normalize to 4-5 percent, with moderate inflation and selective investments,” Castro added.

According to Castro, the downside scenario involves higher oil prices, global recession risks, and slower tourism growth, with potential unemployment rising in tourism-linked sectors.  The upside scenario sees oil prices stabilizing, logistics improvements, and manufacturing diversification, with growth reaching 5-6 percent.

“The future is uncertain, but the goal is to achieve stable growth, controlled regulation, and sustained investments.  Achieving this requires coordinated management, fiscal and structural policies, and strategic investments informed by timely statistics and data, Castro said.

The region must focus on innovation, collaboration, and the determination of all leaders to sustain and protect growth, with a call to action for all stakeholders to support the economic growth and development of Central Visayas, Castro concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF SENATOR FRANCIS ‘CHIZ’G. ESCUDERO

The current impasse in the Senate is untenable and unacceptable.

When political divisions become too extreme and obstruct our mandate, we must all have the courage to pause, gain perspective, reflect, consider and realize that we should put the  Senate, as the institution that we serve, above ourselves.

This is not a political contest. I am not taking sides. I am taking a stand for the Senate. My allegiance is not to any faction, personality, group or alliance. This is not about loyalty, betrayal, or choosing one group over the other—this is about duty.

Hindi ito usaping pampulitika. Wala akong sinasamahan o iniiwanang grupo, pangkat o paksyon. Hindi ko sinasabi na may mali o tama o may nagkulang o nagmalabis kaninuman. Ngunit hindi pwedeng manatili tayo sa ganitong sitwasyon. Ang naaapektuhan na ay ang mismong kakayahan ng Senado na gampanan ang kaniyang tungkulin sa bayan.

Ito ang rason at dahilan ng aking pasya ngayong araw na ito. Hinihiling ko ang inyong pag-unawa sa amin, kasabay ng inyong panalangin para sa inyong Senado na malampasan ang hamon na ito at patuloy na magampanan namin ang aming tungkulin sa inyo at sa sambayanan.