MCIA welcomes Xiamen Air’s direct flight to Quanzhou, China

 LAPU-LAPU CITY – Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) welcomed the launch of Xiamen Air’s direct flights between Cebu, Philippines (CEB) and Quanzhou, China (JJN) starting on March 29, 2026 with twice-weekly service connects Central Visayas to China’s historic port city, boosting tourism and trade amid new visa-free policy.

“The launch of the Cebu-Quanzhou route reaffirms our mandate to drive economic growth in the region through robust aviation connectivity as the premier transfer hub in the Philippines.  We want to be more than just an entry point; we want to be the transit and transfer hub to the Philippine islands. By bridging Central Visayas directly with Fujian, we are opening up immense opportunities for local tourism operators, exporters, and businesses,” said Athanasios Titonis, Chief Executive Officer of Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC).

This highly anticipated route restores a vital air link between the Philippines' premier tourism and transfer gateway and Fujian Province’s major manufacturing and historic port hub. Xiamen Air will operate the Cebu-Quanzhou service with a Boeing 737-800 aircraft flying twice weekly, every Tuesday and Saturday, offering a seamless three-hour journey for both business and leisure travelers, Titonis shared.

Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro bared that the Cebu Provincial Government championed the reopening of this route following a recent diplomatic mission to Fujian Province, China in February when she met with officials to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two provinces.

“Today, that same spirit takes flight, bringing with it the new possibilities for tourism, trade, and people-to-people connection. Cebu has always been a gateway. We are open, dynamic, and forward-looking. With this renewed route, we continue that legacy in opening doors wider to the world, and strengthening our ties with our friends from Quanzhou and across China,” Baricuatro said.

The route’s resumption supports the Philippine government’s efforts to revitalize inbound tourism, following the recent implementation of a 14-day visa-free entry policy for eligible Chinese tourists.  The return of Xiamen Air further solidifies MCIA’s continuous drive to expand its international network and position Cebu as a highly competitive and accessible destination on the global stage, Baricuatro added.

Beyond tourism, this direct flight serves as a crucial bridge for commerce. Quanzhou is a recognized manufacturing powerhouse for textiles, footwear, and stone products, while Cebu remains the commercial and export center of the Visayas, Baricuatro stated.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) general manager Julius Neri, Jr., highlighted the route’s broader economic impact as the MCIAA continues to work closely with its private partners to ensure that Cebu remains an accessible, top-of-mind destination for international travelers.

“The MCIAA wholeheartedly welcomes the return of Xiamen Air’s Quanzhou service and with the recent easing of visa requirements, we are thrilled to welcome a new wave of travelers and provide them with a seamless, world-class transit experience with our signature Cebuano warmth,” Neri said.

A ceremonial cake-cutting marked the sweet tradition of celebrating the launch of a new route (Photos: MCIA/Capitol PIO)

PhilHealth partners with PSA to modernize systems, protect member benefits

CEBU CITY -- The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), March 26 to modernize the PhilHealth systems, prevent fraudulent claims, and ensure benefits reach every Filipino and for the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) co-location and the launch of PhilHealth Check Utility (PCU).

“Filipinos deserve a health insurance system that is modern, secure, and reliable. Through our partnership with the PSA, we are strengthening our systems, improving the accuracy of our records, and ensuring that every peso of the health fund supports legitimate claims and reaches every Filipino.   As we clean and modernize our systems, we remain committed to ensuring to ensuring that no eligible member is denied service. Our priority is to deliver services that are both secure and accessible for all,” said PhilHealth President and CEO, Dr. Edwin Mercado.

Mercado added that while safeguards are strengthened, access to benefits remains fully protected. Through the co-location initiative, PhilSys registration is available directly at selected PhilHealth offices, allowing members to register for their National ID while accessing PhilHealth services.

The PCU integrates PhilSys data to verify identities in real time, perform biometric liveness checks, and match records for accuracy, ensuring that only valid claims are processed. The system is fully integrated into key programs, including the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) and the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) benefit availment process, streamlining the patient journey from consultation to medicine access.

These initiatives mark a significant step in PhilHealth’s digital transformation and modernization efforts, aligned with the Universal Health Care Act. By strengthening identity verification, improving data integrity, and streamlining processes, PhilHealth and PSA reaffirm their commitment to a more accountable, efficient, and people-centered health system for all Filipinos. (Photos: PhilHealth7)

MGB-7, PNP to intensify campaign against illegal mining in Central Visayas

 CEBU CITY – Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB)-Region VII has officially empowered members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), and the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CCENRO) through a new Order of Deputation to act as Deputy Environment and Natural Resources Officers (DENRO) to intensify campaign against illegal mining and quarrying in Central Visayas.

"We believe that the best way to safeguard our environment is through shared responsibility. Through the formal ‘deputization’ of law enforcement, we are strengthening our enforcement network to ensure the sustainable management of our mineral resources in the region," said OIC Regional Director Al Emil Berador.

Berador emphasized that the move is a strategic shift toward a "community-driven" approach to environmental stewardship and to intensify law enforcement in a unified front against these illegal activities across the region.

Through the order of deputation, these officers are now authorized to investigate, arrest violators, and seize illegally sourced minerals along with the conveyances, including trucks and heavy equipment used in these unauthorized activities, Berador added.

MGB-7 conducted the Enforcement Training on Anti-Illegal Mining to the newly deputized officers on March 18 with a firm understanding of mining laws, translating complex technical regulations into applicable field protocols.

Mining Claim Examiner Engr. Jacob Densing led a comprehensive session on the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (RA 7942), clarifying the vital distinctions between mining permits issued directly by the MGB/DENR and those issued by LGUs under devolved functions.

MGB-7 Legal Officer Atty. Gleen Revilla-Maravilla established the legal framework for their new roles as Deputy Environment and Natural Resources Officers (DENRO), focusing on strict protocols for the apprehension, arrest, and seizure of illegally sourced minerals and the conveyances such as trucks and heavy equipment used in unauthorized extractions.

This authority is grounded in Section 9 and 103 of RA 7942, DAO No. 2010-21, and the revised ‘deputization’ guidelines under DAO No. 2008-22. The training and oath-taking of the newly deputized personnel, were held on March 18 at the CIDG Conference Room in Camp Sotero Cabahug, Cebu City, marking their formal entry into the bureau's enforcement network.

Police Captain Joseph Elmer Cornea of the CIDG expressed gratitude for the training, noting that the “deputization” empowers the PNP to act decisively against environmental violators while ensuring all field operations remain within the bounds of the law. (Photos: MGB7/Google Images)

 

 

 

 

Fly via MCIA, the connectivity hub of leading airlines in PH

LAPU-LAPU CTY—Fly via Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), the connectivity hub of leading airlines in the country that continues to reinforce its role as the Philippines’ key transfer hub, connecting travelers efficiently to top destinations across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

“MCIA is fast becoming the Philippines’ most efficient and accessible transfer hub. Through our growing network and strong airline partnerships, we are making it easier for travelers to connect across the archipelago—while delivering a seamless, world-class airport experience that reflects the best of Filipino hospitality,” said AIC Vice President and Head of Airports Rafael Aboitiz.

With its growing network, increased flight frequencies and key airline partnerships, Cebu is becoming the go-to transfer point for travelers looking to reach top destinations efficiently.  MCIA serves as a strategic point for domestic travel with some exclusive routes and making it easier than ever for passengers to reach the Philippines’ most popular cities and island destinations.

Leading airlines strengthen Cebu hub operations

AirAsia Philippines’s Cebu hub operates in full swing with MCIA connecting Cebuanos to more destinations than ever before, both domestic and international.  Passengers can now fly directly from Cebu to Davao, Iloilo, and Caticlan with increased frequency and convenient schedules that make point-to-point travel faster and simpler.

Earlier morning flights from Cebu to Iloilo, between 6:30 AM and 7:55 AM, provide flexibility for business and leisure travelers alike. Afternoon departures to Caticlan, operating from 4:05 PM to 5:20 PM, offer seamless access to Boracay. In addition, AirAsia has increased its Cebu–Davao–Cebu route to 18 weekly flights, strengthening connectivity between Visayas and Mindanao.

Cebu Pacific also establishes Cebu as a central gateway to the Philippines’ most sought-after island destinations.  Direct flights from Cebu now include El Nido, Siargao, and Coron, alongside over 24 other domestic locations.

To meet peak summer travel demand, Cebu Pacific is adding 33 weekly flights from MCIA starting March 29, increasing access to Bacolod City, Boracay (via Caticlan), Butuan City, Cagayan de Oro City, Clark, Dumaguete City, Iloilo, Tacloban City, and El Nido.

By mid-June, weekly frequencies will reach up to 23 flights to Butuan City and 17 to Bacolod City. With 31 direct routes from Cebu and a domestic network spanning 35 destinations, MCIA offers travelers more options and convenience than ever.

A seamless hub for domestic, growing international travels

MCIA’s domestic network is complemented by its growing international connectivity, providing access to regional and global destinations.   The arrival of Philippine Airlines’ newest fleet, the Airbus A350-1000 at MCIA last March 12, is also highly significant. 

This aircraft is first of its kind in Asia and is among the world’s most advanced long-range wide-body aircraft, known for its fuel efficiency, quieter engines, and enhanced passenger comfort--perfect for long haul flights.

Passengers enjoy more direct routes, shorter travel times, and seamless transfers—positioning Cebu not just as a destination, but as a gateway linking people to the Philippines’ top cities and islands.  By flying via Cebu, passengers can reach the country’s best destinations efficiently, whether exploring Visayas cities, Mindanao hubs, or world-renowned islands.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA), and Laguindingan International Airport (LIA) are operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. (AIC) that makes travel smoother, faster and more connected. (Photos: MCIA/Google Images)

Rising digital scam in tourism, alarmed hotel/resort owners in Cebu

CEBU CITY – The increasing cases of tourists online booking scam has raised alarming concerns among the owners of hotels and resorts in Cebu with nearly 200 online booking scams reported, totaling more than P1.229M amount scammed in 2025, as the Department of Tourism (DOT)-Region VII reported at the launching of the Cebu and Bohol “Turista Iwas Scam” campaign, March 24 at Parklane International Hotel in Cebu City, in collaboration with the Hotel and Resorts Association in Cebu (HRRAC), PNP-Regional Anti-Cyber Crime Unit (RACU-7) and other tourism stakeholders in Central Visayas.

“For the past two days alone, more than 200,000 local and some foreign tourists that arrived in Bantayan Island resorts that don’t have bookings, not listed, because they went to the wrong or fake Facebook accounts.  Some are crying and they really felt bad that they were scammed which broke my heart,” Nelson Yuvallos, president, One Island Tourism Association in Bantayan Island and owner of Anika Island Resort in Santa Fe, Bantayan Island shared his experience at the Turista Iwas Scam launching event.

Yuvallos said that digital scam threat in tourism is really alarming and he raised an emotional appeal to the government and urged Congress to enact a law to stop Facebook scams; strengthen laws to counter online tourism scams and rapid takedown technology as essential part of effective law enforcement.

DOT-7 OIC-regional director, Gelena Asis-Dimpas said that the Turista Iwas Scam campaign aims to combat online fraud in tourism, which has led to financial losses and operational disruptions.

“The initiative aims to raise public awareness, promote verified booking platforms, and strengthen consumer confidence in accredited establishments. Key strategies include technological prevention, secure online payment channels, multi-sectoral coordination, education, and enforcement,” Dimpas added.

The program emphasizes collaboration among government agencies, law enforcement, the private sector, and media partners to safeguard the tourism industry's integrity in Central Visayas, particularly in Cebu and Bohol, she said.

In his opening message, PBGen Redrico Maranan of the Philippine National Police (PNP) suggested action items such as to equip local and international tourists with practical knowledge and tools to recognize red flags, avoid prominent schemes and confidently navigate their travel plans.   Create a culture of vigilance where scams have no place to try through continued partnership between the community and the PNP.

Maranan, (whose message was read by PCol. Enrico Figueroa, Chief, Regl Staff-PRO7) bared that the PNP has also received numerous complaints about scams on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.  He said that in response, the PNP, in partnership with the Department of Tourism Region 7, launched a campaign focused on prevention, awareness, and public empowerment.

A proposed law in Congress to address digital scam threat in the tourism industry

One important take away at the launching was the presentation of a draft law proposal by Atty. Cenelyn Manguilimotan Dalnay, Tourism Chair, European Chamber of Commerce (ECCP), HRRAC BOT and Commissioner, Cebu City Tourism Commission (CCTC) called the “Hotel & Resort Online Booking Anti-Scam Act” to be filed with Congress to address gaps in consumer protection, regulation, oversight, & dispute resolution for online transactions in the tourism industry.

According to Atty. Dalnay, she reviewed The Internet Transaction Act of 2023 and the Anti-Phishing Act of 2024 and noted gaps in consumer protection and the need for a dedicated e-Commerce Bureau under the DTI.

“The proposed measures include a mandatory official channels registry, rapid takedown mechanisms, payment protection measures, and evidence preservation. The goal is to complement existing laws like Internet Transaction Act and the Anti-Phishing Act to enhance enforcement, and establish an inter-agency task force to address digital scams affecting tourism and hospitality,” Dalnay shared.

She added that the proposed Hotel and Resort Online Booking Anti-Scam Act with Congress addresses gaps in consumer protection, regulation, oversight, and dispute resolution for online transactions in the tourism industry.

Establish a mandatory official channels registry for hotels, resorts, and tourism-facing establishments under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and create a rapid takedown and preservation mechanism where hotels, resorts, and victims can submit verified complaints of fraud to online platforms, which must take down the fraudulent content within 24-48 hours and preserve the evidence during the appeal process

Require payment providers, digital wallets, and payment service providers to implement fraud detection measures, provide a standardized victim reporting lane, and enable rapid escalation process for suspended accounts.  Mandate platforms and payment service providers to preserve relevant records for a minimum retention period and comply with subpoenas issued by competent authorities during fraud investigations.

Include administrative penalties for non-compliance with verification, takedown, and evidence preservation requirements by platforms and payment service providers, and establish an inter-agency task force between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to coordinate the implementation of the proposed act and provide standardized advisories to the public on booking scams.

Yuvallos and Atty. Dalnay emphasized the importance of the proposed law and the need for Congress to act quickly, as they highlighted the role of the European Chamber of Commerce in drafting a position paper to push the proposed law in Congress.

Yuvallos told Manila Standard that the proposed law has already been given to some Cebu Congressmen. “We are appealing to the Senators, Congressmen and the President to act immediately to help the tourism industry in the country.” (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

REDAS training to strengthen Cebu’s LGUs in disaster risk assessment capabilities

 CEBU CITY – The Cebu Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)- Region VII conducted the 5-day training on the Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System (REDAS) for the second batch of Cebu’s local government units (LGUs) on March 23-27 in Cebu City following the successful first batch training on March 9-13 this year.

DOST-7 regional director, Tristan Abando told this writer that the REDAS training is part of DOST’s Smart and Sustainable Communities program that aims to further strengthen the capabilities of all LGUs in disaster risk assessment and planning through the use of science-based tools.

“It is important to equip the local government units with science-based tools.  To build disaster-resilient communities starts with informed decision-making and the effective use of technologies like REDAS. Through lectures, hands-on exercises, and field activities, participants gained practical knowledge in hazard simulation, exposure database development, and impact assessment,” Abando said.

REDAS, a software developed by DOST-PHIVOLCS, generates hazard maps and estimates the potential impacts of hazards such as earthquakes, floods, severe wind, tsunami, and landslides. It is crucial for the LGUs to know how to use this tool, Abando added.

Meanwhile, DOST-7, Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) and the municipality of Alcantara, Cebu also convened on March 24 to initiate the Smart and Sustainable Alcantara Roadmap. 

The partnership builds on the strong foundation already established through the Alcantara “Communities with Access to Relevant and Equitable Primary Healthcare Services” (CARES) initiative which has spent the past year building local capacity and developing robust community health data.

Abando said that by harmonizing these existing efforts with DOST’s “SMART and Sustainable Cities and Communities” framework, the town aims to transition toward data-driven, tech-enabled governance.  “Based on the groundwork already completed, the roadmap identifies two critical starting points for the municipality-- Water Quality Testing Facility and Food and Nutrition Interventions.”

Alcantara town wants to establish a localized facility to ensure consistent access to safe, potable water, and deploy scientific solutions and DOST-developed technologies to combat malnutrition and bolster local food security. 

"We are taking the groundwork from Alcantara CARES and supercharging it with scientific interventions, such as knowledge in hazard simulation, exposure database development, and impact assessment,” the partners stated. (Photos: DOST-7)

 

 

 

EABC-PH chair urges Philippines to step up integration into regional economy

 CEBU CITY — East Asia Business Council (EABC) Philippines Chair Jay Yuvallos urged the country’s business sector to accelerate their integration into the regional economy as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) reshapes trade and supply chains across East Asia.

Yuvallos, speaking at a forum organized by the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), March 18 at Shangrila-The Fort said, the Philippines risks missing opportunities in the world’s largest trading bloc if it continues to approach regional integration with fragmented agenda and short-term thinking.

“This year, our focus at the East Asia Business Council Philippines is reinforcing trust, integration, and sustainability in the East Asian economic architecture.  The Philippines must view regional integration as a long-term national strategy that connects businesses to the wider East Asian economy,” Yuvallos said.

RCEP, which entered into force in 2022, brings together 15 Asia-Pacific economies and represents roughly 30 percent of global GDP, covering a market of around 2.3 billion people. The agreement is widely considered the world’s largest trading bloc and is expected to deepen regional economic integration through trade facilitation, investment flows, and supply chain connectivity.

Among the council’s key initiatives are RCEP awareness programs and business clinics, regional support units for enterprises navigating regional markets, value-chain mapping to accelerate MSME participation in RCEP, digital trade and payment platforms, and a circular economy toolkit aimed at promoting sustainable production systems.  “These initiatives are small steps, but when coordinated, they can create meaningful impact,” Yuvallos added.

Yuvallos pointed to Cebu as a practical example of how regional competitiveness can begin to take shape through ecosystem development and its economic corridors showing how different sectors can work together to build regional competitiveness.

Central Cebu serves as a hub for trade, services, and manufacturing, while other areas support industries such as shipbuilding, logistics, agro-industry, and tourism. The Cebu Investment Center further positions the province as a gateway for investment and business engagement across Asia, Yuvallos said drawing from his experience as Immediate Past President of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI).

“Cebu’s progress reveals the challenges facing the broader Philippine economy. We must overcome our biggest challenge: fragmentation.  Fragmented agenda, silos, and turf wars slow progress. The enemy is us.  Are we prepared to compete and participate in ASEAN, East Asia, and the wider RCEP economic block?” Yuvallos asked, adding that the need for stronger coordination is particularly urgent as the Philippines prepares to chair ASEAN in 2026.

He noted that neighboring economies such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam are aggressively positioning themselves within regional value chains, highlighting the urgency for the Philippines to strengthen its own economic strategy.

The country’s ASEAN chairmanship, he added, presents an opportunity to advance practical regional priorities that can open new opportunities for Filipino industries. The Philippines can push initiatives that create real opportunities for MSMEs, creative industries, and future-facing sectors such as semiconductors and critical minerals, he said.

Yuvallos also highlighted the importance of engaging young Filipinos aged 17 to 22, noting that this cohort will be entering leadership roles by 2036.  Drawing from his conversations with them, he said their responses reflected a sense of uncertainty but underscored the importance of accountability, transparency, and active participation in driving change.

“We must do something for our youth and the future.  Their insights remind us that the future belongs to the prepared, united, and empowered,” Yuvallos emphasized a long-term national vision anchored on the next generation. (Photos: CCCI)