DENR-EMB 7 lifts CDO of Binaliw landfill operation with strict environmental safety conditions

CEBU CITY-- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources--Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB 7) lifted the Cease and Desist Order (CDO) against Prime Integrated Waste Management Inc. for its Binaliw Sanitary Landfill Project on condition that the company must continue to meet the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) requirements to ensure incidents like the previous trash slide do not recur, and the completion of rehabilitation and stabilization work remains the top priority.

EMB Regional Director Atty. John Edward Ang said that the partial lifting is conditional after the company met key remediation and operational commitments. “Cebu has an urgent need for a functional waste disposal facility to handle the city’s waste, and our decision followed a careful evaluation of the company’s compliance measures that of balanced environmental safeguards with practical necessity.”

The partial lifting is conditional on continued adherence to the agreed rehabilitation plan and other mitigation measures, said Ang and EMB7 advised local officials for continued monitoring and further compliance checks as the facility completes stabilization and site restoration work.

EMB 7 issued an amendment, on March 31, 2026 to the project’s ECC allowing additional engineered components to strengthen the facility’s operational safety. These include the development of a new cell at the toe of the landfill (approximately 14,000 square meters with a capacity of 90,524 metric tons) and an interim cell (2,746 square meters with a capacity of 19,470.83 metric tons), among other enhancements.

The EMB also recognized the certification issued by the Local Government of Cebu, expressing its consent to the proposed operational modifications and rehabilitation strategies necessary for the facility’s recommissioning. This was further supported by the Sanggunian Bayan through Resolution No. 17-2624-2026.

It may be recalled that on February 23, 2026 the local council formally sought the assistance of DENR Region 7 to expedite the compliance of Prime Integrated Waste Management Inc. with rehabilitation requirements, enabling the safe resumption of operations under stricter environmental and safety protocols.

“This Office remains committed to closely monitoring the facility—particularly in terms of waste inputs and outputs.  We conduct regular site inspections to ensure that stabilization measures meet required standards and that leachate is properly managed,” Ang assured the public that strict monitoring remains in place.

He further emphasized the importance of multi-sectoral oversight and that his office continues to engage other stakeholders, including local government units and non-government organizations to actively participate in monitoring activities and help ensure full compliance and safety in all operations. (Photos: Google Images/Manila Standard)

 

 

 

All systems go for security, safety preparations for the ASEAN Summit in Cebu

CEBU CITY – Cebu is all set to host the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Leaders’ Summit, as the local organizing committee assured that security, traffic, and venue preparations are in place with the collective effort and dedication to represent the country well, expressing full confidence in the readiness for the high-level gathering in May.

“From a scale of 1 to 100, I would say we are 101% prepared in terms of security and safety of the delegates and guests in time for the ASEAN Summit with the high-level cooperation and coordination from civilians, national, regional, and local agencies, which has been crucial in ensuring smooth operations,” PCOL. Kim Molitas, PRO-7 ASEAN Spokesperson told this writer at the press briefing on security preparations, April 28 at the Capitol.  

Molitas confidently asserted that the preparations are at a maximum level, citing a year of experience and successful hosting of previous events, highlighting the provision of necessary documents and support from various authorities, including governors, mayors, and uniform services.

 

                                Security package and convoy run

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Presidential Security Command (PSC) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) explained that security protocols for high-level delegates, including the design of a specific security package comprising motorcycles, vehicles, backup vehicles, and possibly an ambulance are all in place to ensure the safety of heads of state and other ministers from their hotels to meeting areas.

“The convoy run is a practice to assess travel times and adjust routes for optimal security, not for VIP treatment but a security preparation.  It aims to maintain normalcy in daily operations while accommodating VIP travel. Post-convoy run assessments help in modifying routes and security measures as needed,” said Col. Joel Benedict Batara of the AFP.

The security team may need to break some rules to ensure the travel is as short as possible, and the convoy run helps in adjusting routes and security preparations based on assessments, said Col. Bert Nioda of the PSC adding that security preparation for these high-level events needs intelligence augmentation, contingency planning, and community information sharing.

“Key points included the adoption of Threat Assessment since last year, joint intelligence briefings at local, regional, and national levels, and the readiness of personnel from various regions,” Col. Nioda said.

Emergency preparedness, response and medical emergencies are also crucial in the preparations. Office of Civil Defense (OCD-7) regional director, Joel Mamon explained that the team issued emergency response readiness, with heightened alert status among hospitals and university units.

The OCD, DOH team discussed about mitigation and maintenance response, coordinating with partners and agencies, and the deployment of staging areas, and mentioned the ongoing preparedness activities with various agencies and the capacitation of the security sector.

“Tabletop exercises and contingency planning with the Philippine National Police is important, including the expected percentage increase in power during the event and the possibility of outages,” Mamon said.

The team also look into the availability of delivery hotels and the movements of delegates, with tour packages available for delegates, including options for free or post-meeting tours and the possibility of delegates visiting other regions and islands, emphasizing the need for readiness.

               Preparation for ASEAN Summit and meeting venues

The local organizing committee conducted technical inspections with partners to assess the readiness of facilities for reliable power supply, including the Mantan Expo Center, the international media center, and the Shangri-La hotel.

Key findings include the Mactan Expo Center operating at 85% capacity, the need for road management and supplemental generation, and the implementation of N1 contingency measures to ensure reliable, stable, and secure power supply for the ASEAN Summit events.

Airport preparations include increased personnel and a lounge for guests. Implement the airport reception plan by deploying additional personnel at four bases and four terminals to handle approximately 3,000-5,000 arriving guests, with special attention to early and late flights, using briefings already conducted.

Inspections of venues and hotels are underway, with a focus on standards and guest services. Manpower is being deployed to ASEAN information desks at hotels, with shifts starting early and late. Tour packages are ready, including Michelin-recognized restaurants and island tours. Safety and security are emphasized, with coordination with local government units and tour operators. The goal is to host the summit on May 7-8 with seamless hospitality. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

CPA grants 50% discount on remittance share of Cebu domestic cargo handling service providers

CEBU CITY – The Cebu Port Authority (CPA) approved a 50 percent discount across the board to all CPA accredited Domestic Cargo Handling Service Providers operating in the Ports of Cebu, on the Domestic Cargo Handling Share to be remitted to the Authority, effective May 11, 2026 to July 10, 2026 to help mitigate the impact of the ongoing fuel crisis affecting the cargo handling sector. 

CPA Board Resolution No. 1383-2026 passed on April 17 during the Special Board Meeting of the Cebu Port Commission, prescribed the 50% discount.  This is an additional measure to aid partner cargo handling service providers operating at various CPA managed operated ports amid the ongoing energy crisis, following the posted Memorandum Circular No. 04-2026 last April 01, 2026.

CPA general manager Francisco Comendador III said that this measure is subject to periodic review, as part of CPA’s continued support to port stakeholders and the domestic cargo sector, adding that the CPA remains committed to ensuring the continuous and efficient delivery of port services while supporting the maritime industry and the commuting public during the ongoing fuel crisis.

Comendador, in his remarks at the Marine Expo this month, he bared that initial estimates revealed that nearly P2M in revenues that had been waived for the first two days of the implementation of the discounts and the suspension of terminal fees.

As of April 26, waived fees since April 18 amounted to P4.76M, about 65 percent of which accounts from the waived Passenger Terminal fees. The effect of the waived revenue is on the net income to be remitted annually to the national government as part of its mandate being a Government Owned and Controlled Corporation (GOCC), the CPA said.

Due to the waived revenues, CPA's remittance to the National Treasury might have a significant decrease if and when the economy will not bounce back to normal or higher port traffic in the next weeks or months.

Commendor added that CPA’s loss of income will not affect the quality of services provided to passengers. The Authority ensures the uninterrupted delivery of essential port services, including infrastructure maintenance, utilities, sanitation, security and emergency response. (Photos: CPA/Google Images)

 

 

 

 

DENR-Bohol confirms nesting of a Green Sea Turtle fronting a resort in Panglao

PANGLAO, Bohol-- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-7) in Bohol called on the public and the owners of a resort in Panglao, Bohol to help adequately protect the nesting site of a Green Sea Turtle situated along the shoreline fronting Henann Resort in Tawala, Panglao, Bohol, the stretch of coast leading to Amorita Resort is well known for its Green Sea Turtle Nesting. 

“This nesting event is a positive indication that our coastal ecosystems in Bohol continue to provide support to marine biodiversity.  We're asking everyone, residents, visitors and coastal stakeholders – to help us keep this nest safe until the hatchlings make it to the sea,” said PENR Officer Wilson Henson, reminding everyone of the shared duty to protect these fragile habitats.

Green sea turtles are one of the world’s most iconic marine species and play a vital role in maintaining healthy seagrass beds and marine ecosystems. However, they are currently listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

Habitat loss, coastal development, pollution, illegal wildlife trade and climate change all threaten their populations. Thus, each successful nesting event is an important contribution to the survival of the species, Henson said.

According to Henson, local coordination channels reported first the citing of the turtle nest that was immediately confirmed by DENR-Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS), the Panglao Island Restoration and Rehabilitation Program (PIRRP), and the Philippine Coast Guard.

The nesting site lies within a known sea turtle nesting corridor along the coastal stretch going towards Libaong, highlighting the ecological importance of Panglao’s beaches as vital habitats for marine wildlife, the team added.

After confirmation, DENR Bohol responders immediately cordoned the area and established protective measures including temporary cover to prevent disturbance.  This will be replaced by a more suitable enclosure to ensure the nest is adequately protected. The management of the resort has also been advised to cut down on artificial lighting in the vicinity as too much lighting can disorient hatchlings and disturb nesting female sea turtles, Henson said.

“Every wildlife that builds a nest is a sign of hope, and also a call to action. Saving sea turtles is not only the government’s work but communities and partners working together.  With continued protection and good coastal management, we can give these species a fighting chance to survive and thrive,” DENR7 Regional Executive Director Laudemir Salac pointed out the need to work together to protect wildlife.

Henson bared that DENR and partner agencies continue to conduct regular monitoring. The eggs are believed to hatch in approximately 45 to 70 days, and heightened protection and monitoring will be put in place to ensure the safe emergence of the hatchlings.

Residents, tourists and stakeholders are urged to help protect this nesting site, and other similar sites, by not disturbing or coming into contact with the nesting area; not using flash photography and bright lights near the nesting site; disposing of waste properly to avoid marine pollution, and reporting any sightings of wildlife or concerns to local authorities.

“It's a good reminder of the fact that our coastal ecosystems are still alive and can renew themselves when they are protected.  With collective vigilance and responsible stewardship, we can ensure that these remarkable natural events continue to be witnessed by future generations,” Salac added. (Photos: DENR7 & Google Images)

 

Over 4,000 people join Angels Walk for Autism in Cebu

CEBU CITY— More than 4,000 Cebuanos joined this year’s Angels Walk for Autism nationwide today, April 26 at the SM Seaside, South Road Properties, Cebu City, simultaneous with other Angels’ Walks in Metro Manila, Mall of Asia Arena, and other major cities in the Philippines to move beyond awareness toward concrete inclusion. 

Led by the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) in partnership with SM Cares, the initiative highlights a growing national call for the urgent passage of the landmark National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Bill. 

Cebuano advocates are pushing for stronger policies that ensure access to services, coordinated support, and lifelong opportunities for Filipinos on the autism spectrum.

The walk features performances and talents highlighting the contributions of the autism community and its allies, as well as call for systemic inclusion through policy, partnerships, and support for Filipinos on the spectrum.

ASP believes that systemic inclusion begins with policy. Hence it advocates for the National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Bill which institutionalizes access to services, coordinated support, and lifelong inclusion for Filipinos on the autism spectrum.

On March 9, 2026, the Philippine Senate unanimously approved the National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Act (Senate Bill No. 1822) on third reading with a vote of 20 – 0. It has been transmitted to the House of Representatives for counterpart action.

According to ASP, “inclusion must translate into real opportunities - through inclusive education systems, skills development, and workplaces that adopt accessible and equitable hiring practices via strategic partnerships with the public and private sector.

Furthermore, it submits that “strong families ensure strong futures – but they need to be sustained with support through accessible services, community networks, and policies that ease the realities of caregiving. Therefore, compassionate, accessible human support systems must be established to empower Filipinos on the autism spectrum to achieve independence and make meaningful contributions.”

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) is a national, non-profit organization that works towards an environment that empowers persons in the autism spectrum to become the best of their potential -- self-reliant, independent, productive and socially accepted members of Philippine society. 

From a core of 11 mothers in 1989, it has grown to 16,000 members spread across 106 chapters around the country today, aiming to establish institutional mechanisms to support neuro-diverse persons and their families.

The society is the prime mover of autism advocacy in the Philippines - a proponent of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which articulates basic principles of equality. It persuades leaders in the government and private sectors to include persons within the autism spectrum whenever they engineer laws, policies, and procedures. (Photos: MBCNewman) 

UC offers int’l internship, high-paying careers for its tourism students in Taiwan

CEBU CITY – The University of Cebu (UC) has finalized its international internship program in partnership with Dreamark TW, an organization that connects schools and partner hotels for tourism students to train in Taiwan’s hospitality industry, offering not only global exposure but also a promise of competitive earnings and long-term employment opportunities.

UC chairman Atty. Augusto Go told Manila Standard that the initiative builds on the university’s long-standing efforts to bring students beyond local training.   With 300 initial slots set for rollout, the program gives hope to UC’s around 800 graduating students in hospitality and tourism-related courses, some of whom may soon find themselves working in luxury hotels just a few hours away from home,

“This is not the first time we’ve sent students abroad,” Go said, citing previous programs in Europe, the United States, and Southeast Asia. “But Taiwan is even more practical. It is only two to three hours away, and parents can easily visit,” he noted.

That proximity makes overseas training more accessible, not just financially but emotionally, especially for families who want to stay connected while their children gain international experience, Go added.

                                      UC, Dreamark TW internship program

According to Dreamark TW legal counsel, Christopher San Pedro, the partnership allows students to undergo on-the-job training (OJT) in Taiwan for six months to one year, placing them in real-world hospitality environments, from front office operations to food and beverage services, in established hotels across key tourism destinations.

For students currently enrolled in UC’s TESDA-sponsored diploma programs, the opportunity is even more compelling: a direct pathway from free education to international experience, even a potentially stable, well-paying career, Go said.

San Pedro bared that more than the travel and exposure, what would excite many students is the earning potential. Participants in the program may receive a monthly allowance of around NT$29,500, equivalent to at least ₱50,000.

San Pedro added, about NT$5,000 will be deducted for accommodation. Some partner hotels may also provide meals and overtime pay, further increasing take-home income.  For many students, especially those from modest backgrounds, this transforms the internship from a requirement into a life-changing opportunity.

“Filipino students are highly regarded.  They are proficient in English and naturally service-oriented, which are qualities that hotels value. We connect students and schools with partner hotels to provide quality international internships that are now more accessible,” San Pedro said.

San Pedro noted that interns who perform well have a strong chance of being absorbed by their host companies after completing their OJT. A student who begins as an intern could transition into a full-time employee, he pointed out and demand for Filipino hospitality workers in Taiwan remains high, driven by their strong communication skills, facility with English and service-oriented mindset.

This is not just training. Students can actually earn while learning, Go said, expressing optimism about the program’s impact.  Applicants will undergo online interviews with prospective employers prior to deployment to ensure alignment between the student’s skills and the hotel’s requirements.

According to San Pedro, Dreamark TW has already deployed 272 Filipino interns to Taiwan, with hundreds more lined up for future batches through partnerships with institutions in Luzon.  With UC now joining the network, the program is expected to scale significantly, with long-term projections reaching up to 10,000 student beneficiaries in the next few years, San Pedro noted.

The initial batches, however, will begin modestly, targeting 300 to 400 students, allowing both UC and Dreamark TW to ensure quality training and proper support systems, San Pedro said.

For UC students, especially those in the TESDA-funded diploma programs, the timing could not be more aligned.  The scholars, many of whom were previously unable to afford college, are now receiving free education, allowances, and training, and may soon step into international internships that offer both experience and income, Go stated.

Go added that before deployment, the university will conduct on-site inspections and validations of partner facilities to ensure that training environments meet standards of safety, legitimacy, and quality.  “We will make sure that our students are placed in secure and credible establishments,” Go said.

Across UC’s five major campuses -- UC Main, Banilad, Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue (UCLM), METC Mambaling, and South (Pardo-Talisay), there are currently about 4,000 students enrolled in hospitality-related programs.  For these students, Taiwan is not just a destination but a promise that after years of study, sacrifice, and perseverance, something better is waiting, Go noted. (Photos: UC/Google Images)

 

 

 

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)