Cojuangco eyes nuclear energy, says part of PH’s energy plan

 CEBU CITY -- Pangasinan 2nd District Representative Mark Cojuangco seeks to integrate nuclear energy in the country’s national energy and development plan through his proposed House Bill # 8567 which prescribes incentives for the integration of nuclear energy into the country's electricity sector and outlining funding mechanisms and policy direction to accelerate the development of nuclear power, positioning it as a cornerstone of a more secure, stable, and economically resilient energy system.

"For decades, we have relied on energy sources that leave us vulnerable to global shocks and volatile prices. If we are serious about securing a stable and affordable energy future, we must take a clear and deliberate path forward. Nuclear energy must not be just an option; it is a necessity," said Cojuangco in a media briefing, April 24 at the Golden Peak Hotel, Cebu City.

He said that the proposal builds on the country's efforts to establish a strong nuclear regulatory framework following the enactment of the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilAtom) Act. While PhilAtom laid the foundation for the safe and secure use of nuclear energy, this measure marks the next critical step, shifting from readiness to implementation.

The proposal comes at a critical time, as instability in global oil markets continues to expose the Philippines' heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. Rising fuel costs are already driving up electricity prices, transportation expenses, and the cost of basic goods, posing risks to both economic growth and household welfare.

The proposed bill introduces targeted incentives and enabling financing structures and the bill aims to ensure that nuclear energy projects can be pursued efficiently and at scale, making it a viable long-term solution to the country's energy challenges, he added.

The measure also highlights the Philippines' untapped nuclear assets, including the Philippine Nuclear Power Plant (PNPP), a fully constructed and previously tested facility. According to Cojuangco, these assets represent not just sunk costs, but strategic opportunities to deliver affordable and reliable electricity.

"We are sitting on valuable infrastructure that can significantly lower electricity costs and reduce our dependence on imported fuels. The question is no longer whether nuclear energy is viable. It is whether we are willing to act," he added.

Cojuangco also emphasized that nuclear energy offers a unique advantage by providing consistent baseload power without greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike intermittent renewable sources that require backup systems, nuclear energy can operate independently, ensuring stability in the country's power supply while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

He added that with nuclear energy, the cost of electricity per kilowatt hour can be reduced to only PhP5.00/kwh. According to Meralco, the current electricity rate stands at PhP 13.82 per kwh, emphasizing that this reduction will impact the lives of every Filipino because it will mean that the household budget can be diverted to other essential expenses.

The bill also underscores the broader economic impact of adopting nuclear energy. By reducing reliance on imported coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG), the Philippines stands to save billions in foreign exchange while lowering electricity costs for businesses and households, enhancing competitiveness, attracting investments, and creating opportunities for jobs development.

"What we are seeing today is a clear reminder that our current energy system is not built for resilience. Nuclear energy provides a clean, cheap, and reliable solution that supports both economic growth and environmental sustainability.   We cannot afford to wait for another crisis before making the right decision. If we want to build a stronger, more independent Philippines, we must invest in solutions that will stand the test of time,” said Alpas Pinas Lead Convenor Gayle Certez.

Certez added that the need for decisive action has never been clearer. Nuclear energy is not just about powering homes; it is about empowering a nation. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

Special Feature: DENR-EMB7 confirms lifting cease-and-desist order against Monterraza

CEBU CITY – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources- Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) in Region 7confirmed on April 17, its lifting of the cessation of operations order (CDO) against the Monterrazas de Cebu development after the project proponent, The Mont Property Group, Inc., implemented corrective measures required under its Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).

 EMB- 7Regional Director Atty. John Edward Ang said the stoppage was lifted on the basis of documented remedial works, compliance milestones and settlement of penalties imposed under PD 1586, for violation of ECC Conditions.  Ang explained that the project proponent has constructed and enhanced 23 detention ponds with a combined capacity of approximately 52,468 cubic meters.

The ponds, EMB said, are engineered to contain and regulate surface runoff, attenuate peak flows, and help mitigate potential flooding impacts on downstream communities.  According to Ang, on-site inspections verified pond excavation, embankment stabilization, inlet and outlet control structures, sediment traps, and site stabilization measures such as vegetative cover and erosion-control blankets.  

Key corrective actions implemented by Monterraza included the construction and enhancement of 23 detention ponds strategically located across the development site to intercept surface run off. It also established approximately 52,468 cubic meters of detention capacity to hold rain run-off and prevent flooding in downstream areas. 

Monterraza also installed inlet/outlet control structures and sediment traps to improve water quality and prolong the operational life of the detention system, and site stabilization measures as vegetative cover and erosion control blankets to minimize soil loss.  “While the structural measures represent a meaningful step toward reducing flood risk, continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure long-term effectiveness.

EMB Region 7recognizes the importance of timely remedial action to protect communities and the environment.  The detention ponds and associated measures represent a meaningful step toward mitigating flood risk, but continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure long-term effectiveness,” Ang stated. 

EMB-7 has instructed Monterrazas to submit as-built drawings, operation and maintenance plans, and hydrologic monitoring data, and has required a regular maintenance schedule for sediment removal, vegetation management, and structural inspections. 

Ang bared that EMB-7 outlined its next steps to ensure compliance and performance with its ongoing monitoring of the detention ponds’ performance during rainfall events and review hydrologic data submitted by the proponent.   Should monitoring reveal deficiencies or insufficient capacity under extreme conditions, EMB will require additional mitigation measures and set timelines for corrective action.  

Monterraza development details and controversial issues 

Monterrazas de Cebu or Monterraza is an upscale rice-terraces-inspired residential development on upland Barangay Guadalupe developed by Genvi Development Corporation/Mont Property Group with Chief Strategic Officer Slater Young as its project ambassador.  

Based on EMB’s report obtained by this writer, construction was suspended since November 2025 due to DENR stoppage order 2752, when the project came under fire after Typhoon Tino in late 2025 caused massive flooding in communities at the base of the mountain, especially along Banawa Creek.  

Residents and officials blamed increased surface runoff from the hillside development due to earth-moving and vegetation removal.  On November 7, 2025, DENR-EMB7 launched its probe with technical experts to assess ECC compliance, slope stability, and drainage systems, and by November 12, 2025, EMB7 issued the stoppage order due certain violations. 

According to EMB’s findings, Monterraza was guilty of cutting trees in 2022 without any tree-cutting permit from the government and that out of over 700 trees, only 11 remained uncut.  The Bureau also said that the developer failed 10 out of 33 Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) conditions. 

Further reports indicated that Monterraza did not have discharge permit, a violation under the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 and it has inadequate retention ponds with only 12 built/to be built versus planned 15+.DENR said 18,500 cubic meters capacity are not enough for water retention.

EMB-7 said Monterraza breached several laws such as PD-705 Revised Forestry Code, PD-1586 Environmental Impact Statement System. In December 2025, EMB-7 filed criminal complaints against Monterraza for breaking forestry laws. DENR-EMB7 “will not hesitate to enforce corrective actions, including suspension, penalties, or other legal remedies,” it said. 

Cebu City probe and findings 

The Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CCENRO) headed by Engr. Editha Peros said her office did not receive any application for a tree-cutting permit from Monterraza, and on March 3, 2026, Peros asked Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival to stop construction because the developer lacks earth-moving and tree-cutting permits. 

Office of the Building Official (OBO)-Cebu City Chief, Architect Florante Catalan bared that the developer secured all OBO permits, adding that environmental issues are not within its job and referred the matter to CCENTRO. 

On November 10, 2025, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival ordered a City-led inspection separate from the DENR probe.  The City requested for the DENR-EMB findings for clarification, and found that on August 26, 2025, they met with Slater Young to discuss flood control CSR projects--including detention ponds, drainage improvements, Quijada Drive upgrades. The meeting now drew scrutiny. 

The Cebu City Council on Feb 3, 2026 approved a request from OBO to issue cease-and-desist order (CDO) due to lacking permits and on March 10, 2026, the City Council approved tighter monitoring after the executive session. “They have the authority to issue the CDO because they failed to comply with the submission of these permits,” said City Councilor Sisinio  Andales while Councilor Joel Garganera explained the runoff issue that it “becomes like the flush of a toilet—it goes straight into the drainage system.”

Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña also said that development is fine but proper planning is essential to prevent water from rushing into the lowland neighborhoods. 

Guadalupe Barangay Captain Apol Ross Enriquez demanded a full-scale technical review of Monterraza’s drainage systems and water retention ponds which findings revealed that an unusually high surface run off from the project may have contributed to flooding, soil saturation, and slope instability downstream. 

Invoking the Local Gov’t Code to protect community safety, the Barangay Council led by Enriquez asked for community dialogue with developer presenting all permits, engineering plans, flood mitigation measures and the council passed the motion en masse for the CDO against Monterraza on November 5, 2025. 

Developer side and netizens reactions 

Developer Genvi/Mont Property Group denied cutting 700 trees without permits and told inspectors on January 12, 2026 that construction was already suspended since November 2025 and current work only for repairing retention ponds.  

In an executive session on March 10, 2026, the developer also denied violating the stop work order. Said earth-moving was in a different part of property not covered by CDO, and the site is shared with another developer, and it claimed that ponds are 80 percent larger than what the law requires.  Slater Young, in his several interviews in2023, allayed concerns and assured the government that the project is designed with sustainability. 

Meanwhile, ordinary people and netizens' reactions towards the Monterraza project were triggered after Typhoon Tino flash floods that allegedly blamed the Monterraza development causing the floods which went viral. 

Residents near the project were worried about their safety because removing vegetation makes rainwater flow down much faster, increasing flood and landslide risks. Environmental advocates on the other hand called for greater transparency and accountability in approving and monitoring of large-scale hillside developments.  Homes and businesses affected claimed that Banawa Creek area downstream reported flooding, soil saturation, slope instability. 

DENR-EMB7 final technical evaluation report and its findings on drainage, slope stability, retention ponds, and ECC compliance will be submitted to the Cebu City Gov’t and other regulatory agencies for references and continuous monitoring of the Monterrazas de Cebu.  

Baricuatro: Cebu is 80% ready for ASEAN Summit 2026 on May 7-8

CEBU CITY- Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro declared that Cebu is 80 percent ready for the  48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Cebu on May 7 to 8, 2026 to happen primarily in Lapu-lapu City.

“As head of the Cebu Organizing Committee, I should say that 80% ready nata,” Gov. Baricuatro said during the press briefing of the Cebu Provincial Organizing Committee (POC), today, April 23 at the Capitol. 

Baricuatro, joined by Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival and Mandaue City Mayor Jonkie Ouano, Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office chief Nagiel Bañacia and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 7 Director Simon Arias, who also provided updates on preparations within their respective jurisdictions.

With security, infrastructure, and emergency systems nearing full operational capacity, Cebu Province is entering the final stretch of preparations for the ASEAN Summit, signaling readiness to host one of the region’s most high-level diplomatic gatherings.

The summit is expected to gather in Cebu the heads of state of the 11 ASEAN member states—Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam—to discuss various areas of cooperation and emerging regional issues.

The summit is expected to have spillover effects in neighboring Cebu and Mandaue cities. Around 3,000 delegates—including official representatives, support staff, and members of the international media—are expected to attend.

“As far as the security is concerned, 80% complete na with enhanced measures, emergency response systems and hospital Code Blue readiness in place.  It’s safe to say that in Cebu, we are ready,” Baricuatro added.

The governor noted that several ministerial meetings initially scheduled to be held in Cebu have been canceled or shifted to virtual platforms due to the ongoing Middle East conflict. However, the Leaders’ Summit will proceed as planned.

“This is a momentous event. Cebu being featured over all the 82 provinces; kita’y napilian. That alone would inspire us nga we will do our best nga let’s be hospitable to our guests, give them the warmest Cebuano welcome,” she said. 

Baricuatro discussed the significance of the quantum tourism promotion event for Cebu, emphasizing its importance in boosting tourism with Cebu’s hosting the ASEAN Summit 2026.  She added that the event is described as a major promotion, highlighting Cebu and Manila as the primary focus among all provinces.

“Cebu is positioned as the second city outside of Manila, indicating its strategic importance in tourism.  Because of the national scope of the event, we confirm our role in supporting the Summit regardless of the specific agenda or requests from the delegates,” Baricuatro stated. 

12.0 Freedom Fest, very first biggest mountain rave at La Villa Francisco in Tacloban City

TACLOBAN CITY – The very first biggest mountain rave party is happening at the La Villa Francisco (LVF) at Barangay 100, Diit, Tacloban City on June 12, 2026 dubbed as “12.0 Freedom Fest”—a 12-hour meticulously curated journey to maximize the Philippine Independence Day holiday on a weekend.

“The planning and execution of the 12.0 Freedom Fest event aims to revitalize our La Villa Francisco, a premier mountain resort with affordable rates for the Taclobnons and nearby towns in Leyte.  The event is intended to be affordable and family-oriented, with a focus on expression and community,” said Jimmy Clemente, president & CEO of La Villa Francisco during the media launch and site facility tour in April 2026.

Clemente bared that the goal of re- establishing the resort to offer affordable family fun to Taclobanons and nearby towns and to open the facility to a broader audience, not just the local community, and hosting the 12.0 Freedom Fest rave party from 1:00PM on June 12 to 1:00AM on June 13 makes a difference and the impact on the overall image and marketing of La Villa Francisco. 

“The goal is to attract a more premium market, including the middle class, and ensure the event's success. We are aiming to accommodate over 3,000 people with three ticket categories: general admission, VIP, and BVIP, with the latter being further divided into two sections,” shared Ailhenne Zoe Cabalan, LVF operations manager.

Cabalan said that the event team and management are finalizing the ticket package rates and structure so that tickets are ready to go on sale on April 27 with publish social media announcements over the next few days on the official Facebook page detailing ticket sales timing and categories.

What to expect at the 12.0 Freedom Fest?

Elvira Torre, proprietor & CEO of Dreambox Multimedia Marketing Campaign Services explains that Freedom Fest is the definitive mountain rave, timed for June 12, the Philippine Independence Day long weekend, engineered as a perfect 12-hour experience from 3:30 PM to 3:30 AM, emphasizing the importance of expression through music and events. The celebration kicks off early as the gates open at 1:00 PM.

“Rising above the city, 12.0 Freedom Fest is More than a party, it is a strategic marketing initiative to elevate La Villa Francisco Mountain Resort, transitioning its mass-market appeal into Tacloban’s ultimate "High Ground" premium destination.  This immersive 12-hour journey is a meticulously programmed mountain takeover that marks the inauguration of an iconic tradition, kicking off a new era of resort activities,” Torre said.

12.0 Freedom Fest offers a seamless atmospheric transition from a premium sunset lounge session to a high-energy rave featuring an exclusive all-female headline DJ line-up, amplified by spectacular production and the explosive performances of the Rebel Force Dancers, Torre bared.

“We would like to transform the resort into a premier music festival destination and to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for large gatherings, kicking off with the highly anticipated 12.0 Freedom Fest, a 12-hour immersive music and lifestyle experience,” Torre said.

As the sun sets, the resort transitions into a high-energy nocturnal spectacle, starting with the relaxing sundown and golden hour grooves of local DJs Jong Garcia, NJR, and Nolit.  As the night progresses, the energy hits its peak with an explosive, all-female Manila DJ lineup featuring Mia Fernandez, Christine Alcantara, Lovezy, Jennifer Lee, and Dara Carmina. Amplified by the commanding presence of The Hype Syndicate (Aj Laranas, King John, and Ice Rosales) and the visual choreography of the Rebel Force Dancers.

“12.0 Freedom Fest highlights La Villa Francisco’s capability to host large-scale, premium audio-visual spectacles. Guests can immediately enjoy the resort facilities—including the pool, water slides, and expansive grounds—alongside interactive zones like The Glam Hub and a curated Food Village,” Clemente shared.

According to Clemente, guests walk through dynamic entry barricades into a space filled with lush summer colors, fluorescent neon accents, string lights, canopy-draped VIP corners, and colorful festival pole flags.

Torre shared a preview of what to expect at the event.  Arriving early at 1:00 PM means first dibs on the ultimate content haven. Highlight the 8x12ft event photo op wall, the self-shoot interactive photo booths (complete with unlimited polaroid prints and props), and lifestyle stations offering hair braiding and henna/face painting.

Tease the massive concessionaire setup. Guests can enjoy everything from classic ice cream and street food to pizza and customized crafts at the pop-up station. Never Go Thirsty. The party won't stop for a drink run, thanks to strategically placed satellite bars, brand activations, and beer stations covering the VVIP, VIP, Gen Ad, and pool areas.

Some VIP experience with the general admission (GA) Poolside and Mountain Side Canopy Lounge Reservation available for groups of 15 and 20 persons, VIP and VVIP Sections with premium seating complete with premium bottle service, exclusive satellite bar and waiter service, and the absolute best view of the 12-hour stage production especially for VVIP A Ticket Holders.

Key features of the 12.0 Freedom Fest include a 12-hour continuous entertainment with DJs from Cebu, MCs from Ozamis, Leyte and Manila, Hype Performers from Cebu, All-Female Manila DJ lineup, Merchandise and F&B Stalls, Activity Corners, Pool Foam Party, Giant Pool Slide and more!

Festival Attractions include Pool Foam Party, Interactive Photo Booths, Hair Braiding & Face Painting, Henna Stations, Food Village & Craft Pop-ups, Satellite Bars, CO2 & Confetti Spectacles.  Music Starts at 3:30 PM for the 12-Hour continuous entertainment with young professionals, tastemakers, and festival-goers looking for an elevated, high-energy highland escape.

Let’s tour La Villa Francisco Mountain Resort

Located just a short drive from the Tacloban City center, La Villa Francisco Mountain Resort is highly accessible for both local residents and out-of-town visitors. Guests looking for a seamless, hassle-free journey can easily book a ride directly to the resort using online ride-hailing platforms like Grab. For those commuting, standard public transportation options, including local buses are also readily available, making the highland escape completely within reach whether you are driving private or commuting.

Amenities cater to both children and adults. The Children’s Waterpark features water slides designed for younger guests, while adults can enjoy a swimming pool and a giant pool slide. Beyond these, guests can commune with nature through the resort’s landscaped garden, complete with walkways that are illuminated at night, offering a serene environment for evening strolls.

Today, La Villa Francisco features 17 rooms, including options for couples, small groups, and families.  Room types range from standard for two to triple and family rooms.  For larger groups, Casa Amistad and Casa Bonita can each accommodate up to 10 persons, offered at an overnight rate of P10,000 inclusive of breakfast.

These additions position the resort as an ideal venue for barkada getaways and family bonding experiences.  Complementing its accommodations is an on-site restaurant that serves both day visitors and overnight guests. Every weekend, the resort hosts Acoustic Night, where live band performances create a relaxed and social dining atmosphere.

The resort has also strengthened its position as an events destination. Its function hall can accommodate up to 500 guests, making it suitable for weddings, birthdays, and corporate gatherings. This large-capacity venue adds to its appeal as a go-to location for celebrations in the Tacloban area.

La Villa Francisco Mountain Resort offers visitors a refreshing escape where leisure and nature meet. Spread across 9.5 hectares of developed land within a 25-hectare property, the resort combines sweeping greenery, cool highland air, and modern amenities to create a destination where leisure meets nature.

Looking ahead, the Clemente family plans to expand the resort’s offerings. Planned developments include additional villas and cottages, as well as new attractions such as a proposed kart zone and horseback-riding facilities. These enhancements aim to broaden the resort’s appeal while supporting the continued growth of tourism in Tacloban. (Photos: MBCN/LVF)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MCIA prepares for the ASEAN Summit 2026 in Cebu in May

LAPU-LAPU CITY – The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) with its private operator, the Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC) and the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), in coordination with the different agencies including the ASEAN National Organizing Committee (NOC), TIEZA Site Enhancement Team, and other law enforcement and security units activated a joint operational preparation plan for the upcoming ASEAN Summit 2026 in May, to ensure a seamless, secure, and world-class arrival and departure experience for the  Heads of States (HOS), international delegates, and global media.

In a joint media tour and briefing today, April 20, organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA-7), Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), and Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC), MCIA officials and the joint team shared its comprehensive preparations for the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Cebu in May.

"Our teams are executing a comprehensive operational plan to ensure our infrastructure and services are fully ready.  From refreshing our VIP Lounges to fine-tuning our airside operations, we are focused on connecting our guests to a better, more seamless experience that guarantees a smooth and vibrant journey for the delegates, without compromising the comfort of our regular passengers," shared Ricia Montejo, General Manager for Mactan-Cebu International Airport under Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation.

The unified approach highlights MCIA’s public-private partnership in delivering unparalleled service and showcasing the signature Cebuano hospitality on a global stage, MCIA team said that the preparations are done in several key areas at the airport.

First focus is a signature welcome reception by dedicated Passenger Service Assistants (PSAs) to hand out welcome leis and guide leaders through the facilities and a space for showcasing Filipino craftsmanship with locally-sourced furniture and lounge setup, highlighting local delicacies that reflect the Cebuano and Filipino cuisine to delight delegates.

MCIAA’s site enhancement and infrastructure projects

"Mactan-Cebu International Airport is deeply honored to serve as the first and last impression for the distinguished heads of state and delegates attending the ASEAN Leaders' Summit. Through our seamless coordination with ACAC, the local government, and national security agencies, we have laid out meticulous protocols that reflect the very best of Cebuano hospitality. We are fully prepared to welcome our Southeast Asian neighbors with warmth, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence,” said Julius Neri, Jr., MCIAA General Manager and CEO

Neri bared that part of its preparations, MCIAA has undertaken key site enhancement and infrastructure projects to ensure operational readiness and a world-class airport environment.  These include the improvement of the General Aviation Terminal Building and its perimeter fence, water tank restoration and water supply improvements, the repainting of General Aviation apron pavement markings, as well as the repainting of both primary and secondary perimeter fences.

MCIAA has also facilitated the designation of aircraft parking positions to ensure efficient airside operations and accommodate ASEAN-related flights. Further developments include the concreting and widening of the Ibo Access Road, complemented by street lighting and landscape enhancements, improving landside access, mobility, and overall airport aesthetics. In partnership with TIEZA, MCIAA also facilitated the installation of the LED wall at the General Aviation area, as well as lamp post banners and signages across the MCIA vicinity.

Neri shared that MCIAA has also procured ASEAN uniforms for its Liaison Officers and officials, in support of official facilitation.  These uniforms are sourced from Hinablon sa Argao, a community-based initiative under Cebu Technological University- Argao Campus that preserves Cebuano weaving traditions and supports local livelihoods; and Liong Garments, a Cebu-based manufacturer creating quality apparel with purpose.

“These are complemented with accessories crafted by local shell artisans from the Mactan Shrine Souvenir Vendors Association, showcasing Cebu’s culture and craftsmanship,” Neri added.

Meanwhile, in preparation for the vital movements of guests and delegates, ACAC executes critical site enhancements and operational requirements, including providing designated areas in Terminals 1 and 2 for ASEAN-assigned vehicles, handling the replacement of some lights, providing power supply at lounges, and overseeing the repainting of the ramp which completion is firmly scheduled on the last week of April. (Photos: MCIA/Google Images)