DPWH-7 welcomes its new regional director

CEBU CITY—The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Region VII has a new regional director, Engr. Simon Arias, whose appointment was made public by Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon on January 22, 2026 as part of the major shake up in 12 of the 17 regional district offices of the DPWH.

He replaced Danilo Villa, who was named as one of the DPWH regional directors undergoing a lifestyle check.  Arias is a former Catanduanes DEO District Engineer and a seasoned career official that continues to earn the confidence of national leadership as he assumes the post of Regional Director for DPWH Central Visayas (Region VII), marking a significant milestone in his decades-long public service career.

Engr. Arias’ appointment comes amid a broader government effort to strengthen accountability and performance within the DPWH, particularly following a nationwide reshuffling linked to flood control projects. His elevation to one of the department’s key regional leadership roles underscores institutional trust in his technical competence, administrative experience, and capacity to deliver results under pressure.

Arias is widely recognized for his tenure as District Engineer of the Albay 1st District Engineering Office, where he served for four years and maintained the district’s standing as a “Model DEO.” Under his leadership, the office received top performance awards at the regional level (Region V), reflecting effective project management, timely implementation, and adherence to standards.

Throughout his career, Arias has overseen the completion of numerous major infrastructure projects across the Bicol Region, including; Flood Mitigation and SIPAG Projects, such as the breakwater construction in Palnab, Virac, aimed at strengthening coastal protection; Educational Infrastructure, including multi-storey school buildings like the Capitolina O. Legaspi Memorial High School in Masbate, supporting access to quality education; and Road Network Improvements, notably the upgrading of key thoroughfares such as the Salog-Damacan Road in Albay, improving mobility and local economic activity.

During his assignment in Catanduanes, he served amid a period marked by leadership instability, where five district engineers rotated in just four years.  Reports at the time pointed to intense political pressure surrounding procurement processes and contractor preferences—conditions that contributed to frequent leadership changes rather than individual administrative failure.

In 2017, his office in Albay was also drawn into public scrutiny following concerns raised by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) over a proposed P7-billion Mayon Circumferential Road project that allegedly encroached on the volcano’s Permanent Danger Zone. The issue highlighted the complex balance between infrastructure development and environmental protection in hazard-prone areas.

Earlier in 2016, Arias was reportedly relieved from a post in Camarines Norte following allegations related to bidding and project implementation. He categorically denied the accusations, and no conviction or final adverse ruling was established against him.

In late 2025, he was among officials affected by a nationwide DPWH reshuffle tied to flood control reforms. Notably, while others faced suspension, Arias was later appointed to a higher leadership position, reinforcing the department’s assessment of his professional standing.

As Engr. Arias takes on his new role in Central Visayas, his career reflects the realities faced by long-serving public officials, marked by measurable accomplishments, challenging assignments, and continued trust from the institution he serves.

Clarification on Identity

The DPWH and concerned stakeholders emphasize that Engr. Simon N. Arias is not the same person as Florendo Arias, a former DPWH assistant director who was convicted in a separate and unrelated “ghost repair” graft case. Any attempt to associate Engr. Simon N. Arias with that case is factually incorrect and misleading.

Recently, Engr. Simon Arias with his team paid a courtesy call to Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival where they discuss concerns, updates, and shared responsibilities in improving public works for Cebu City.

According to Archival, the discussion covered the status of ongoing projects, planned developments, and practical ways to strengthen coordination between DPWH and the city, particularly in road works and other key infrastructure. (Photos: DPWH7/Cebu City PIO-FB)

 

MCIA welcomes 1.3M passengers in January 2026, highest record for a month in history

LAPULAPU CITY -- Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) sets all-time monthly passenger traffic record in January 2026 at 1.3M, marking a 15 percent increase compared to its 1.1 million passengers recorded during the same period in 2025 and the highest passenger traffic for a month recorded in history.

"This exceptional start to 2026 is a testament to the growing demand for Cebu as a global destination and a key transit hub.  Our strategic efforts to expand our network—bringing in new partners like Vietnam Airlines, Aero-K, Jetstar Airways and Firefly Airlines, and opening direct links to cities like Hanoi, Cheongju, Brisbane, and Macau—are bearing fruit,” said Athanasios Titonis, Chief Executive Officer of Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC).

The surge in passenger traffic reinforces the airport’s sustained demand for travel to Cebu, Titonis added that domestic traffic rose by 12 percent from its January 2025 traffic, while international traffic saw a remarkable 25 percent jump from the January 2025 traffic.

While the surge in passenger traffic can be attributed to the influx of tourists and returning Filipinos for the Sinulog festival, the opening of new international routes and the entry of new airline partners have significantly boosted connectivity, making Cebu more accessible to all passengers, Titonis added.

“We are committed to maintaining this momentum by ensuring that every passenger experiences the warmth and efficiency of MCIA,” Titonis said adding that in 2025, MCIA introduced eight new routes and welcomed new foreign-based airline partners such as Jetstar Airways, Vietnam Airlines, Firefly Airlines, and Aero-K.

Julius Neri, Jr., General Manager and CEO of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) expressed optimism that this upward trajectory continues as MCIA opens more doors to the world.  “These figures reflect the strong collaboration between the government and our private sector partners as the ideal entry point to the Philippines," Neri said.

In another development, MCIA officially receives Level 3 of the ACI Customer Experience Accreditation, advancing from our previous Level 2 recognition.  This achievement shows that MCIA is progressing from simply listening to passengers to actively engaging with them.  

At Level 3, MCIA improves customer experience by using passenger feedback, empowered staff, and expert teams to make lasting improvements. This means better experiences for passengers and a strong commitment to quality and service for our stakeholders.

Titonis added that MCIA continues to innovate with initiatives like CEBConnects, ensuring seamless transfers for the growing number of passengers utilizing Cebu as their hub.  He remains optimistic about sustaining this momentum, with more route launches and infrastructure enhancements in the pipeline for 2026.

“Your support makes this journey possible. We keep raising the bar for airport experience in the Philippines,” Titonis said. (Photos:MCIA)

Cebu City to make books, literacy resources more available to communities

CEBU CITY – Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival and Lost Books Cebu managing owner, Donald Villamero discussed lengthily on how the Cebu City Government and Lost Books Cebu can collaborate to come up with a project making books and other literacy resources more available and accessible to communities, especially in remote barangays of Cebu City.

Villamero, a staunch advocate for love of books and reading, visited City Hall on February 3 for a courtesy call to mayor Archival to pitch for his passion of expanding access to books and supporting local writers in the City. Villamero also owns the Lost Books Cebu Café at GF, CAO Mercado Bldg, Osmeña Blvd, Capitol Site, Cebu City.

“We welcome Donald Villamero for a meaningful discussion on how we can further support local writers and make books more accessible to our communities. It is encouraging to see initiatives that uplift Cebuano voices and bring local stories closer to readers,” mayor Archival said.

The discussion centered of initiatives that aim to bring books closer to communities, particularly in areas with limited access to reading materials.  They also talked about programs of the National Book Development Board, including Book Nook: Aklat Para sa Lahat, and possible areas of collaboration between the city government and private partners to support and expand similar efforts.

These programs are seen as vital in promoting literacy, nurturing a love for reading, and uplifting Cebuano stories and voices.  Archival said that he is ready to support, in a simple but meaningful way, such as the use of available personal vehicles to start with a mobile library, including logistical assistance to help pilot projects like mobile libraries and community book hubs.

“With collaboration, more and more children and families are given opportunities to learn and be inspired to learn,” Archival stated.

Villamero said he is beyond grateful for the opportunity to exchange ideas with mayor Archival on how they can cultivate the love of reading in the community.  “We look forward to collaborating with your office on your plans to set up more libraries and book nooks, and possibly a mobile library, which is so exciting,” he said, in his Facebook post.

Lost Books Cebu is known for curating and redistributing pre-loved and rare books, supporting local authors, and making books more affordable and accessible.  Selected titles from Lost Books Cebu are also available online, allowing readers to browse and purchase books even beyond physical pop-ups and community events.

Archival and Villamero also discussed initial steps including partnerships with groups like Lost Books Cebu and exploring innovative approaches such as mobile libraries to reach more residents, especially children and families. 

Archival also bared that as part of the City’s goal to make learning more accessible, he wants the City Council to revisit the policy direction on having a public library in every barangay and identifying practical steps to help move this forward. (Photos: Cebu City PIO)

 

 

Converge engages with Aeta community in Pampanga

CEBU CITY-- Converge ICT Solutions Inc. (Converge) recently engaged with an Aeta community in Angeles City, Pampanga, through a day of tree-planting and outreach activities aimed at creating lasting, positive impact at the grassroots level, in collaboration with the Fraternal Order of Eagles – Kandili Chapter and the all-women volunteer organization Inner Wheel Club of Taguig.

The initiatives support the local government’s watershed reforestation efforts while also helping strengthen the livelihood opportunities of farmers in the community and Converge sowed 300 fruit bearing seedlings in the Sapangbato Watershed.

After the tree planting, the said organizations also conducted a medical mission to bring essential health and dental services directly to residents. Members of the Inner Wheel Club of Taguig gave a health education session on proper oral hygiene, provided basic dental care services, and distributed hygiene kits to community members as part of the outreach.

Converge and the Philippine Eagles also distributed grocery packs, medicines and vitamins, including garments to help address the immediate needs of the families in Sitio Target, Sapangbato.

“This initiative reflects our shared goal of supporting communities in ways that respond to their needs. By working together with other organizations, we were able to do so much for the environment, for the people’s livelihoods, and also in promoting the health and well-being of the community, all in one meaningful effort,” said Converge VP and Head of Corporate Communications and Public Relations Jay-Anne Encarnado.

The engagement of Converge with Sitio Sapangbato builds on an earlier effort where 1,000 mandarin and coffee seedlings were sowed by its employees last year as part of its Women’s Month celebration, led by the mentors and mentees of its women’s leadership program, Grace Under Pressure: MentorSHE.

Overall, Converge planted a total of 4,700 seedlings for the watershed in 2025 in partnership with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Angeles City, Pampanga. The sustainability commitment of Converge includes a strong focus on creating positive community impact, which the company fulfills by engaging with marginalized communities through the capabilities of its business. (Photos: Converge)

JCI Senate Philippines launches flagship projects in Cebu

CEBU CITY – The JCI Senate Philippines launched its five flagship projects for 2026 in Cebu City during its 58^th National Convention (NatCon 2026) and Joint Induction and Turnover ceremonies on January 30 at Seda Ayala Center Cebu with JCI Senators and members of the JCI community across the country for a day of fellowship, leadership, and celebration.

“The launching of the flagship project in Cebu is very significant for me because I am from Cebu and I’m leading the JCI Senate Philippines and its community this year, as its president.  We gathered more than 200-300 delegates, guests, members and partners to celebrate the gains we had and to continue with JCI’s various program advocacies hence, we launch it here,” shared Robert Go, JCI Senate Philippines president, in a side interview before the events.

The official induction of Robert Go as JCI Senate Philippines President at the NatCon 2026 marked the formal transition of national leadership and the start of a new term focused on service and impact with the launching of the five flagship projects here.

Go said that these five projects highlight JACI’s continuing commitment to nation-building through professional excellence, values formation, environmental sustainability, and public service recognition. “While the NatCon 2026 reaffirmed the JCI Senate Philippines’ role as a dynamic organization dedicated to developing leaders and creating positive change throughout the country,” he added.

At the flagship project launch, Go mentioned that JCI Senate Philippines has successfully implemented significant major projects and programs, and for 2026, these five flagship projects are the focus.

The five flagship projects

First of the five-flagship project is the Outstanding Filipino Physicians (TOFP) Awards, which recognize Filipino doctors who have chosen to practice in the Philippines despite opportunities abroad. The program honors physicians for their patriotism, dedication to the medical profession, and service to underserved communities, helping address the country’s ongoing medical brain drain.

Second initiative is the Greenlink. It establishes a global network of corporations and organizations committed to environmental protection and climate action. The program promotes sustainable practices such as energy conservation, waste segregation, paper reduction, tree planting, green architecture, and rainwater harvesting as part of everyday corporate and organizational policies.

Third, JCI Senate Philippines continues to strengthen its long-running values advocacy program, We Advocate Time Consciousness and Honesty (W.A.T.C.H.), in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and other education-related institutions.

The program aims to instill punctuality and honesty among Filipino youth and is implemented through free workshops for students and teachers nationwide. Presidential Proclamation No. 1782 declares the month of June as W.A.T.C.H. Month.

Fourth is the Kasambahay Kasambuhay Award: Inspiring Our Heroes, developed by JCI Senate Philippines in partnership with Palawan Express. The award recognizes Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), particularly household service workers, for their contributions and sacrifices while promoting Filipino values and encouraging employer support in host countries.

Completing the slate of flagship projects is The Outstanding Filipinos (TOFIL) Award, established in 1988 by the Philippine Jaycee Senate. The award honors Filipinos aged 41 and above whose exemplary achievements and contributions to society merit national recognition.

“We acknowledge leadership, networking, fellowship, training and training and service to the community as the enduring values of the JCI Senate.  NatCon 2026 also provided us the platform to strengthen cam camaraderie, recognize service, and reinforce the organization’s commitment to nation-building,” Go said.

 

 

MICE Alliance, CCCI and DOT launch Cebu MICE tourism guidebook

CEBU CITY – The Cebu MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) Alliance, the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) launched the “Cebu MICE Guidebook” on January 28 in time for the ASEAN Tourism Forum’s Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) event, a major component of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, held at the Mactan Expo, Newtown Mactan in Lapulapu City.

The Cebu MICE Guidebook is a 200-page comprehensive resource designed to promote Cebu as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). the guidebook consolidates information on Cebu's venues, facilities, accommodations, and service providers.

“The Cebu MICE Guidebook is a milestone we are pleased to celebrate with the Cebu MICE Alliance, Cebu chamber and all our partners in the tourism industry.  I commend the Cebu MICE Alliance and its members for the discipline and coordination behind this work. This guide reflects a shared commitment to professional standards, MARKET CLARITY and reliable delivery qualities that global partners and event organizers look for a destination as the first comprehensive mice guide for Cebu,” DOT secretary, Cristina Garcia-Frasco said in her keynote message.

She said that tis guidebook serves a clear purpose as in one reference, the venues, services, capabilities that position Cebu comparatively in the regional and international MICE market. It gives planners clarity, and it gives Cebu stronger visibility in global bidding.

The Department of Tourism and the tourism promotions board are proud partners in this effort. “We gladly supported the production and printing of the Cebu MICE Guidebook 2025 because competitive destinations require credible tools resources that present capability clearly and inspire confidence among global buyers,” Frasco added.

Cleofe Albiso, MICE Alliance president and managing director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts shared that the Cebu MICE Alliance was formed from a shared belief that Cebu’s greatest strength lies in collaboration. From the beginning, it was envisioned as a platform where public and private sectors move together—hotels, venues, suppliers, government agencies, and communities—guided by one purpose: to build a MICE destination that is competitive, inclusive, and future-ready.

“Today, we proudly launch the Cebu MICE Guidebook—a tangible expression of this shared vision. This project was motivated by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and its industry leaders, whose long-standing commitment has been to position Cebu as both a tourism and business hub and this guidebook was conceived during Cebu Business Month 2025,” Albiso recalled.

She added that the guidebook is designed as a strategic resource for international event planners, associations, and corporate organizers. It tells the story of a province ready to host gatherings that bring together people from different cultures, ideas, and purposes—done with care, professionalism, and heart.

Within the pages of the guidebook are nearly 300 establishments and service providers—hotels, venues, transportation partners, event organizers, and suppliers—each bringing mastery of their craft and deep local knowledge.

“Together, they represent a MICE ecosystem that is ready, reliable, and rooted in Cebuano hospitality.  For international planners, the Cebu MICE Guidebook offers something essential--confidence. It simplifies engagement, eases business transactions, and opens doors to trusted partners who understand both global standards and the unique character of Cebu,” Albiso noted

Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) president, Jay Yuvallos, in his staunch advocacy for multi-sector collaboration, the Cebu MICE Guidebook is a product of Cebuanos who have long championed initiatives positioning the province as both a tourism and business hub.

Yuvallos’ LEAD-A MUST advocacy of business leadership inspired private sector stakeholders and public agencies to spawn this MICE Guidebook for its timely release at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, to provide visitors and delegates with accommodation options available daily, a growing portfolio of venues, and an established mix of dining, retail, and lifestyle experiences, the destination is equipped to host events of varying scale and complexity while delivering memorable delegate experiences beyond the meeting room. 

According to CCCI that the launch of the Cebu MICE Guidebook signals Cebu’s steady evolution into a future-ready MICE destination, anchored on collaboration, service excellence, and community engagement. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

ATF 2026 launches the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan 2026-2030

CEBU CITY – Department of Tourism secretary, Cristina Garcia-Frasco led the launching of the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan (ATSP) 2026-2030, at today’s ASEAN Tourism Conference, January 29 at NUSTAR, Kawit Island, Cebu City, as the ATF 2026 nearing its conclusion.

“The conference is held in Cebu, a city known for its regional and international exchange, symbolizing the balance between openness and responsibility in tourism that plays a significant role in the Philippine economy, connecting regions, supporting employment, and linking social enterprises to global markets.  The conference aims to advance the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan 2026-2030, focusing on resilience, workforce development, seamless travel, digital transformation, product and market diversification, and sustainability,” DOT secretary Farsco said, in her keynote message.

Frasco highlights the historical significance of Cebu, where the ministerial understanding on ASEAN cooperation in tourism was signed in 1998.  The Philippines, as the chair of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, aims to advance regional collaboration and deliver tangible benefits to communities.

The ASEAN Tourism Conference provides a platform for dialogue, partnership, and cooperation among governments, industry, and stakeholders, addressing shared challenges and opportunities.  Malaysia's leadership as the chair of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025 is appreciated for sustaining momentum and advancing practical cooperation within the tourism sector, Frasco added.

Frasco introduced the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan 2026-2030 which focus on resilience, workforce development, seamless travel, digital transformation, product and market diversification, and sustainability.   The Philippines, as the lead country coordinator, has worked closely with ASEAN member states, dialog partners, the ASEAN Secretariat, and the ADB to sustain momentum and support implementation, she said.

“The plan aims to translate commitments into measurable outcomes, emphasizing the importance of partnerships and technical expertise. The role of local associations, especially from Cebu, is essential in regional strategies, ensuring strong local systems, upheld standards, developed skills, enabled connectivity, and advanced sustainability, Frasco added.

Scott Morris, Asian Development Bank (ADB) Vice President for East and Southeast Asia and the Pacific highlighted ADBs support and commitment to tourism as it has been participating in the first ministerial of the year.

“Since early 2000’s ADB has mobilized over $4 billion in tourism-related financing across the region and ADB's investments have supported destination infrastructure, product development, skills upgrading, and private sector growth.  ADB has about $3 billion pipeline in new tourism and tourism-enabling investments across ASEAN through 2030,” Morris bared.

Morris underscored tourism's resilience and dynamic role in Southeast Asia's growth noting it supports one in every 10 jobs and the rebound in international travel and the structural transformation of the tourism sector in ASEAN countries are exponential.

ADB's investments and strategic initiatives and support to the ATSP 2026-2030 are its commitment to tourism as drivers of inclusive growth, job creation, and regional integration is reiterated, Morris added that ADB supports ASEAN member states in preparing a regional tourism policy framework is highlighted.

“ADB's vision for the future of ASEAN tourism by 2045 aims to be a global leader in quality and high-value tourism and the plan provides a coordinated regional framework to guide the next phase of tourism development,” Morris concluded.

After the launching of the ATSP 2026-2030, the first session on ASEAN Tourism Recovery Coordination convened with Ministers from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Malaysia to discuss delivering the 2026‑2030 ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan.