After-Death care, a nagging problem yet a growing industry in Cebu, PH

CEBU CITY – After-death care continues to be a nagging problem in urban cities, like Cebu with high costs associated with funeral services and scarcity of public burial sites, remain a challenge for many families yet, the after-death care industry is growing, driven by increasing demand for funeral and cremation services not only in Cebu but in many urban places in the Philippines.

According to this industry stakeholders, in a sales pitch in Cebu on March 17 at the True Vine Garden Columbary in Cebu, that the Philippines funeral home and funeral service market trend is expected to grow, with a forecasted revenue of P44.75 billion in 2026, up from P27 billion in 2025.   Cremation services are gaining popularity, especially in urban areas like Cebu, due to limited land availability and lower costs.

Traditional wake and burial services remain prevalent, influenced by cultural and religious preferences, however, high costs remain a challenge for the middle-income and low-income families living in the urban centers.

Key players in the after-death care industry like True Vine Garden Columbary (TVGC) in Cebu, Haven of Peace Memorial Garden (HOP) and Cosmopolitan Climbs Life Plan Inc. (CCLPI) and St. Peter’s Memorial Plans have partnered to offer integrated memorial services and pre-need plans in Cebu, while the government has enacted the Free Funeral Services Act (RA 12309), providing free funeral services to indigent families.

The growing awareness of pre-need planning and memorial services with government initiatives and partnerships between funeral service providers aim to improve accessibility and affordability presents opportunities for industry growth, the industry players said.

After-death care industry's impact at the local scene

According to Allan Ballesteros, Business Development Director of True Vine Garden Columbary in Cebu, a new concept in memorial spaces is taking root in the heart of Cebu as True Vine Garden Columbary continues to gain strong market traction, offering families a serene garden setting to honor and remember their departed loved ones.

“Cebu City is rapidly urbanizing, and the reality is that available space for traditional burials is becoming increasingly scarce.  At the same time, cremation rates are steadily rising. True Vine Garden Columbary offers families a dignified and accessible alternative — a peaceful garden space where they can continue to visit, remember, and celebrate the lives of their loved ones,” Ballesteros said in an exclusive interview with this writer.

He noted that the strong sales momentum since the project’s launch in 2023 reflects how the concept resonates with modern families.  The project responds to the growing challenges faced by highly urbanized cities like Cebu, adding that cremation and columbarium have been steadily transforming the traditional image of after-death care by introducing a beautifully landscaped garden sanctuary within the city, a place designed not only for remembrance but also for reflection and celebration of life.

“Since we broke ground in November 2023, the market response has been overwhelming. We are seeing strong demand not only from families in Cebu, but also from investors and buyers abroad who recognize the long-term value of memorial spaces in prime urban locations,” bared Joseph So Jr., Managing Director of True Vine Garden Columbary.

The project represents a shift in how memorial spaces are designed and experienced. Traditionally, memorial spaces can feel cold or somber, it creates a place filled with greenery, light, and thoughtful design — a place that feels peaceful, comforting, and alive, Joseph So added.

True Vine Garden Columbary and all other similar columbaries in Cebu have drawn interest not only from end-users, but also from wholesale investors and overseas buyers, recognizing both the emotional value and long-term investment potential of memorial spaces located within the city.

According to the industry key players, the demand and response from the market to this new shift have been remarkable, they said that columbarium sales continue to attract buyers especially now that most have included pet columbary, which is making brisk sales, reflecting the growing desire among pet owners to give their beloved companions a dignified resting place.

“Remembrance should not only be about grief. It should also be about gratitude, reflection, and honoring the legacy of those who came before us.  Encouraged by the response in Cebu, we are also exploring opportunities to bring the True Vine concept to major cities in the Visayas and Mindanao, where the demand for modern memorial spaces is also growing,” So added. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

Visayan Electric restores electricity for Cebu Ultima Residences after 13 months of impasse'

CEBU CITY – Resident owners of Cebu Ultima Residences gathered for a thanksgiving mass and a fellowship to celebrate the successful reconnection to the power grid of Visayan Electric Company, the restoration of their electricity after 13 months and five days of no power due to a conflict between the developer, Fuente Triangle Development Corp., and issues with power utility Visayan Electric Company (VECO).

“The lights are finally on,” one resident said during the gathering. “And with it comes hope for better days ahead.”

The power outage started due to VECO cutting off electricity to the building because of unpaid bills amounting to millions of pesos.  Over 392 units in San Marino Residences and around 270 units in Corinthians Residences were affected, leaving hundreds of residents without electricity.

Residents claimed they paid their dues to the condominium management, but VECO records showed outstanding balances. The developer denied mismanagement, saying it had advanced payments for utility bills.

The residents finally got power restored on March 14, 2026, after a 13-month wait, following collective efforts and interventions from local government officials. The resolution came after residents coordinated meetings, organized collective actions, and pursued discussions with stakeholders, including the developer, Fuente Triangle Development Corp., and Visayan Electric Company (VECO).

The residents' persistence paid off, and they were able to secure a permanent electrical connection to the power grid. The community came together to celebrate the milestone, marking it as a victory for their determination.

The case involved a conflict between the developer and VECO, which led to the power outage. However, with the help of government officials, regulatory agencies, and community leaders, the issue was eventually resolved.

For more than a year, unit owners endured difficult living conditions due to the absence of a formal power connection. The delay stemmed from an ongoing conflict involving the condominium’s developer, Fuente Triangle Development Corp., and issues surrounding compliance and coordination required for the building’s connection to the power utility.

Because of the impasse, residents were left in limbo. Many relied on temporary power sources, extension connections, or limited generator use to carry out basic daily tasks. Elevators, common areas, and residential units faced operational challenges, making everyday life far from the comfort that homeowners expected when they invested in the property.

What should have been a simple transition into their new homes became a test of patience and perseverance. Despite the challenges, the residents formed a close-knit community united by their shared goal: to secure reliable electricity for their homes.

When the lights finally turned on, it represented more than electricity—it was a victory for the residents’ determination.  The residents expressed heartfelt gratitude to the many individuals, government offices, and organizations that extended support and guidance throughout the long process.

They acknowledged the assistance and intervention of concerned officials and representatives from local government units, regulatory agencies, and community leaders who helped facilitate dialogue and find solutions that eventually led to the building’s successful connection to the power grid.

Residents said the outcome would not have been possible without the patience, cooperation, and goodwill of those who believed in their cause and worked with them toward a fair resolution.

Ultima Residences unit owners extends their deepest and enduring gratitude to the following: Atty. Aristotle Batuhan; Engr. Marcelo Canitan Jr, and Engr. Roger Montebon of MARR Engineering; Engr. Richard Alfafara, Engr. Patrick Salomon and Engr. Mark Anthony Kindica of VECO; Majot Rodolfo Macelo and Major June Calle of Probe Security Agency; Mr. Ed Juarez of Spectrum; Ms. Remedios K. Esparcia of MCRI; Architect Florante S. Catalan of OBO; Atty. Lourdes Dingle Barcenas, Mr. Ian Victor Thom, Raymond Lange Henke, Thierry Robert Cazayous, and Amy Barcenas Boutvine – Unit Owners. (Photos: Cebu Ultima Residences)

 

 

 

Baricuatro calls on multi-sector partnerships, solutions to Cebu’s waste problem

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro called on a multi-sector solution to the mounting waste problem of the Province that take its toll on its waste management efforts, acknowledging its inability to solve the problem alone.

Baricuatro issued this call at the launch of the “Understanding Choices Series” a new initiative that aims to tackle pressing issues through collaboration and partnerships with the private sector, civil society and the academe, on March 19 at the Marco Plaza Hotel, with the first leg of the series called “Cebu’s Waste Dilemma and Potential Solution-Interventions.”

“We need you. The government cannot do this alone and we look forward to collaboration, partnerships, and engagement that will result from this event,” Provincial Administrator Atty. Ace Durano appealed to the attendees that included Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, members of the Provincial Board and mayors from various towns and cities of the province.

Durano echoed the governor’s policy of adopting a multi-sectoral approach to governance in addressing Cebu’s key issues, particularly solid waste management, which requires expertise and participation beyond the halls of the Capitol.

The “Understanding Choices Series” with its first leg on waste management and solutions, aims to assess ongoing initiatives, identify gaps, and craft evidence-based solutions to the province’s worsening garbage problem, Durano said.

Elizar Sabinay Jr. of the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) bared that similar sessions or summits will be held in the coming months, including Climate Action and Flood-Resilient Cebu in April, People in Governance in May, and the Cebu Education Summit in June.

“This is Cebu moving forward.  It will be science-based; it will be evidence-based; it will be based on consultations, participations, and collaborations not just with local government units but also with multi-stakeholders,” Sabinay said.

Part of the first leg summit was an exhibit featuring local and international solid waste solution providers, waste management technologies and best practices from around the world. Baricuatro led the ribbon cutting ceremony with all the summit participants composed of local government officials, national line agencies, solid waste management advocates, and various solution providers.

“Understanding Choices Series: Cebu’s Waste Dilemma and Potential Solution-Interventions,” is expected to guide the provincial government’s policy direction and programs in addressing cross-sectoral challenges, including climate resilience, governance, and education. (Photos: Capitol PIO)

 

 

KALAHI-CDD continues to empower communities in Guindulman, Bohol

GUINDULMAN, Bohol—The KALAHI- Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach continues to empower communities in Guindulman town in Bohol to lead in infrastructure development and institutionalized the community-driven approach in many of the town’s projects.

Before the institutionalization of the CDD approach, many barangays in Guindulman struggled with infrastructure often built without deep community consultation, resulting in projects that didn't fully address residents' most pressing needs.

Following the three-phase roadmap during the National Community Driven Development Program – Additional Financing (NCDDP-AF) modality from 2021 to 2024, the LGU moved from aligning plans and integrating needs into the Barangay Development Plan to the final stage of LGU adoption of projects.

To turn vision into reality, Guindulman LGU allocated P15.2M for Sub-Project Implementation (SPI) via the Municipal Annual Investment Plan with each participating barangay supported this investment by providing a P200K counterpart, bringing the overall investment to P19M .

Beyond physical infrastructure, the LGU invested in its greatest asset, its people. It allocated P5M in capability-building funds to ensure volunteers become competent, empowered managers of their community's development.  The transition to Phase 3- LGU-led implementation was marked with challenges but the mastery of the CDD system was very rewarding.

Phase 3 & 4 infra using the CDD approach

An access road project of the KKB-CDD Phase 3 implementation in Barangay Guio-ang in Guindulman town operating with full autonomy required the municipality to independently harmonize rigid bureaucracy with the demanding, participatory requirements of the CDD framework.

The Guindulman team has taken full ownership of the process. The team handled streamlining procurement and bridging technical gaps. The LGU proves it is no longer just a participant but a master of the CDD methodology.

The successful completion of Phase 3 marked a fundamental shift in Guindulman’s identity. The transition from "beneficiary" to "partner" changed everything.  By integrating Community-Driven Development (CDD) elements into the local planning process, the municipality achieved greater efficiency through community ownership, cultivated a new generation of local leaders, and delivered resilient infrastructure.

This success was reflected in 19 completed subprojects, including 10 access roads that enhanced mobility and market connectivity; six water systems that improved access to potable water; one solar streetlight installation with 11 posts; one box culvert; and a barangay CCTV system.

These initiatives reached 7,297 households and prioritized inclusivity by directly benefiting 610 Indigenous Peoples (IP) households in the barangays of Bayong and Biabas, helping bridge infrastructure development with social equity.

Recently, the LGU conducted a Municipal Development Council (MDC) meeting on February 4, 2026, for resource allocation for Phase 4 implementation. This move signifies that the “KALAHI-CDD way" is no longer an experiment; it is now the standard in community development projects.

With a total investment of P17,578,718.22, comprising P15.2M MLGU allocation, P1.9M in Barangay counterparts, and P478,718.22 in efficiency savings carried over from 2025.  By allocating resources for Phase 4, the LGU has formally committed to sustaining the gains of CDD, ensuring that the participatory "bayanihan" spirit is funded, protected, and expanded.

“This is what the people want. It is not merely what I want, nor what the LGU wants—this is what the community demands. As the MSWD Officer, our ultimate desire is to witness genuine development through the eyes of the people themselves,” said Enp. Ruben D. Boybanting, RSW, MSWDO/MCT-AC.

Marjon Cagas, BDC-TWG Chairperson and community volunteer at Barangay Catungawan Norte, said that seeing the put their own funds into the CDD process gave them confidence. It showed the community that 'Bayanihan' isn't just a tradition; it's how the local government actually works today.

"Entrusting the community is the key to achieving better results. Phase 4 is not just a continuation; it is our promise of a brighter future for the next generation,” added Engr. Cabrini Granada, Municipal Engineer.

Lessons learned from KALAHI-CDD system of development

Local implementers with the community volunteers shared that the greatest lesson they learned in Guindulman is that community empowerment is the best maintenance plan. Residents helped plan and build the sub-projects, they developed a sense of ownership that ensures these facilities will be protected for generations.

The LGU has successfully integrated these participatory tools into their permanent templates, ensuring that the KALAHI way is now simply the Guindulman way. This served as an inspiration for other municipalities. By navigating the hardships of Phase 3 and aggressively pursuing Phase 4 and beyond, they have proven that poverty is addressed not just through concrete and steel, but through the dignity of participation.

“Guindulman is no longer just a program site; it is a self-sustaining model of an empowered, community-led future,” Cagas said.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Laguindingan Int’l Airport strengthens Northern Mindanao connectivity, tourism growth

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY— The Laguindingan International Airport (LIA), operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Laguindingan Airport Corporation (ALAC) strengthens connectivity and positions the airport as the region’s primary gateway to its diverse tourism destinations, supporting the growth of tourism in Northern Mindanao.

“Air connectivity is a key enabler of tourism growth. By strengthening access to Northern Mindanao through Laguindingan International Airport, we help open the region to more travelers and opportunities while supporting local destinations and communities,” said AIC Airports Head of Strategy and Communications Christine Villanueva. 

Villanueva highlighted the important role airports play in enabling tourism development, at the Northern MIndanao Tourism Development Plan WriteShop organized through the partnership between the Department of Tourism (DOT) – Region 10 and the Asian Institute of Management – Dr. Andrew Tan Center for Tourism.

Serving as the main air gateway to Northern Mindanao, LIA connects travelers to some of the region’s most exciting attractions, from outdoor adventure sites and eco-tourism destinations to cultural and culinary experiences and the beautiful white sand beaches  across the provinces of the region.   The airport also provides the baseline infrastructure needed to scale these attractions for international and domestic markets.

“A clear tourism development plan is essential in guiding how Northern Mindanao can grow its tourism sector in a strategic and sustainable way. It ensures that our destinations are developed responsibly, that communities benefit from tourism opportunities, and that stakeholders—from government to private sector partners—are aligned in a shared vision for the region,” said DOT Region 10 Director Marie Elaine Unchuan.

 

The writeshop brought together tourism stakeholders to develop strategies for destination marketing, tourism product development, sustainability initiatives, and regional collaboration, efforts that will help enhance Northern Mindanao’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.

 

ALAC noted that the continued development of LIA is aligned with the broader goal of improving access to Northern Mindanao and supporting the region’s vision of becoming a vibrant hub for tourism, business, and investment.

 

Laguindingan International Airport (LIA) is the main gateway to Northern Mindanao, serving the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, and the provinces of Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte, and Bukidnon.  It is strategically located in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental.

LIA is fully owned and managed by Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) and was opened in June 2013.  LIA replaced the old Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro City, offering modern facilities designed to accommodate the region’s growing passenger and cargo demands. 

As part of AIC Airports’ assets, LIA is positioned to be a key regional hub supporting Mindanao’s trade, tourism, and economic development. (Photos: Aboitiz InfraCapital-LIA/Edilyth Maribojoc-Caloñge)

PBBM leads mass oathtaking of newly-promoted teachers, school heads of Cebu

CEBU CITY -- President Fredinand Marcos, Jr. officiated the mass oathtaking of newly-promoted teachers and school heads of the 44 municipalities Cebu Province with DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and Cebu governor, Pamela Baricuatro held at the IEC Convention Center, Cebu City.

In his speech, PBBM said that this ceremony reflects the teachers’ commitment to shaping young minds, strengthening their character, and guiding them towards a brighter, more progressive future.

“More than just an individual milestone, this promotion sends a message of hope and inspiration to thousands of teachers and principals who aspire to follow in your footsteps.  This occasion also signifies this Administration’s deep appreciation for the work that you do and our commitment to ensure that our teachers continue to receive the support and recognition that you all deserve,” Marcos said.

The President bared that for years, the Philippine educational system did not have higher positions and clear pathways for advancement, many public-school teachers had very limited opportunities for promotion.

“It took 10 to 20 years for a teacher to progress from Teacher I to Teacher III. Iyong nakasama po natin 30 taon naghintay, ang iba decades – three decades. And another equally lengthy period to move from Teacher III to Master Teacher I.  Because of this, many educators left and pursued administrative positions to receive higher compensation,” Marcos noted.

The Expanded Career Progression System and teachers’ welfare

Marcos added that to overcome these hurdles, the government implemented the Expanded Career Progression or ECP System for public school teachers, institutionalizing this reform in September 2025.  “I did this by signing into law the Career Progression System for Public School Teachers and the School Leaders Act,” the president added.

Under the ECP System, the teachers now have two clear pathways for advancement: Classroom Teaching and School Administration. More importantly, it created many positions such as Teacher IV to VII, Master Teacher V to VI, and School Principal V, providing teachers a clear career path and more opportunities.

Through reclassification, from August of 2025 to February 2026, the government has successfully promoted nearly 19,500 teachers and school heads all over the country. Today, in Cebu, Marcos bared that more than 300 teachers and principals, including 57 teachers who are about to retire.

“We also implemented several programs to promote teachers’ welfare. We have created over 61,500 teaching positions from 2022 to 2025. As of January 2026, 97 percent of these positions have already been filled,” PBBM revealed.

He said, to address the administrative burdens that are being placed on teachers, the government created non-teaching positions: 23,500 Administrative Officer (AO) II positions and 1,500 Project Development Officer I (PO) positions during the same period and as of January, this year, almost 100 percent of these positions have already also been filled.

Starting School Year of last year until 2026, the government also released the full PhP10,000 teaching allowance, the president said.  All of this has opened new doors for career advancement for teachers and for school personnel, the government is addressing long-standing barriers to professional growth, strengthening morale within our education sector, Marcos added. (Photos: Sec.Angara Facebook/Google Images)

 

 

 

PBBM inspects, leads turnover of Learning Continuity Space in Cebu

BOGO CITY -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. with Education Secretary Sonny Angara, led the turnover and inspection on Monday, March 16 of the Learning Continuity Space (LCS) at the Marcelo B. Fernan-Polambato Elementary School in Bogo City, Cebu as part of government initiatives to support learning continuity following the devastating September 2025 earthquake in Cebu province.

The modular classrooms, costing approximately P1.65 million each, were designed to protect students and teachers and can withstand extraordinary conditions and each LCS can accommodate 40 students.

Built using durable steel structures, the LCS is equipped with a solar power supply, an Internet connection, and a comfort room in every unit, according to its proponents, Internet connectivity is important for children’s digital learning and for ensuring easy access to other online educational resources.

Aside from inspecting the LCS at the Marcelo B. Fernan-Polambato Elementary School, President Marcos also led the rollout of the YAKAP at Kalinga Caravan during the visit.  The initiatives support learning continuity and provide primary healthcare services to students, teachers, and the local community. (Photos: RTVM/Google Images)