Gov’t needs to step up community awareness on availability of healthcare services

CEBU CITY – Healthcare service providers in Cebu said that there is a great need for government to step up its communication, education, information and awareness campaign on its healthcare services program, specifically on the implementation of the Universal Health Law (UHL) and the availability and benefits of the YAKAP-PhilHealth programs at the community level.

 

“One of our frustrations and challenges as well is the lack of awareness among families in the barangays in Cebu on the availability and benefits of the government’s healthcare programs in the Philippines,” noted Lorylie Manalili Cabalquinto, COO of Oras Punto Diagnostics by Pulyn, during its opening and blessings of its 2^nd clinic branch in Cebu City.

 

Cabalquinto told Manila Standard that Oras Punto Diagnostics paid 80 percent of the healthcare costs to its clients in 2016, contracting it with the 2019 program that offers free healthcare from the government’s PhilHealth program, she emphasized the need for better dissemination of information about these programs.

 

According to Cabalquinto, the government’s PhilHealth-YAKAP programs are practically available in all public and private hospitals and healthcare provider clinics in the country, like Oras Punto. 

 

“Information about these healthcare services and programs in remote areas is very much lacking.  Major challenge we face particularly among Filipino communities is that they are hesitant about diagnostics, thinking that they have to pay for all these health tests,” she shared.

 

Despite efforts to provide free medicine worth P20,000, fear and lack of awareness hinder participation from communities.  There's a need for increased outreach and education before any medical missions, Cabalquinto added.

 

Mia Faye Cabalquinto, a US-based, long-time nurse and healthcare practitioner and one of the owners of Oras Punto, highlighted the emotional impact and fulfillment she experienced in providing healthcare to families in remote barangays in Cebu, underscoring the government’s YAKAP-PhilHealth program impact.

 

She bared that Oras Punto Diagnostic Center embraced fully the YAKAP-PhilHealth availability and benefits for its clients at the center and in its mobile diagnostic clinic in communities around Cebu.  “We want to help.  Despite outreach efforts, there is a significant fear barrier that prevents people from participating, even when free resources are available,” Mia Faye said.

 

Lorylie on the other hand mentioned that Oras Punto offers the P20,000 worth of free medicine as provided in the YAKAP-PhilHealth program, but registration is necessary to access these resources.  “The need for continued outreach and education to overcome these fears and increase participation is necessary,” she added.

 

Lorylie acknowledged the importance of these efforts, indicating that they are essential for the success of the program, and she thanked all its doctors and members for their contribution, and their role in raising awareness and educating the community through its diagnostic center and the mobile clinic.

 

“We underscore the need for ongoing awareness campaigns to address the fears and misconceptions within the community,” she said.

 

Matt Marvin Cabalquinto knows this. As President of Oras Punto Diagnostics, he built the center around one simple conviction: healthcare should reach people where they are, when they need it.  "We saw many people delaying check-ups due to cost, distance, or inconvenience. We wanted to change that,” he said.

 

The name says it all. Oras Punto—exact timing. It means providing accurate and reliable healthcare services exactly when patients need them most, and with the government’s full healthcare programs supporting private healthcare providers, health packages are here and fuly available to Cebuanos.

 

 

 

 

 

Bohol Panglao Int’l Airport marks int’l tourism, welcomes first chartered flight from Japan

PANGLAO, Bohol-- Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) welcomed the first chartered flight from Japan in May 2026 with 163 Japanese tourists arriving via the first-ever chartered flight from Narita, Japan to Panglao, Bohol operated by Cebu Pacific via 5J8811, marking the beginning of international tourism and connectivity expansion.

“This is a very encouraging development for Bohol. We are hopeful that this chartered flight will pave the way for regular international arrivals, particularly from Japan, which has always been a valued tourism market for us,” said Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, at the arrival ceremony.

Aumentado said that the arrival signals a renewed interest from the Japanese market and underscores Bohol’s growing appeal as a premier destination for international travelers and is optimistic about this development, emphasizing its importance in boosting the local tourism and the economy.

Driving this initiative forward is Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corporation (ABAC), the operator of BPIA. Joining the Governor’s official delegation during the September 2025 Bohol Business Mission to Japan, ABAC held exclusive talks with charter flight organizer JTB Corporation.

These discussions highlighted the airport's modern infrastructure and laid the groundwork for expanding Japanese tourist arrivals in Bohol.  Building on these engagements, ABAC also conducted on-site inspection in Tagbilaran in October to assess the readiness and adequacy of the airport’s Immigration, Customs, and Quarantine (ICQ) facilities—a crucial step in ensuring seamless international operations and passenger experience.

BPIA continues to enhance facilities, passengers’ arrival experiences

 “We are proud to support this milestone arrival made possible through our strong partnership with Cebu Pacific, the Provincial Government of Bohol, and our tourism partners in Japan,” BPIA General Manager Aldwin Uy highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration in enabling international connectivity.

 

BPIA officials and local tourism stakeholders welcomed the visiting Japanese tourists upon arrival, showcasing Boholano hospitality and culture, with a seamless and memorable arrival experience.  Uy shared that this charter flight demonstrates BPIA’s readiness to handle international traffic, connecting travelers to Bohol’s unique experiences and opportunities, while the airport continues to enhance its facilities and passenger experience to support stronger international operations.

Bohol-Panglao International Airport, known as the country’s first eco-airport, continues to play a vital role in enhancing connectivity and supporting the province’s tourism growth. By connecting travelers to destinations like Bohol, the airport helps open pathways to local communities, businesses, and experiences.

“With this milestone, we remain optimistic about further strengthening international air links and sustaining the upward trajectory of Bohol’s tourism sector and international connectivity,” Uy said. (Photos: BPIA/Edilyth Calogne)

Chiz asks DOF, BSP for a more responsive strategy

MANILA -- Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero called on the government, especially the Department of Finance (DOF), the Bangko Sentral Ng Pilipinas (BSP) to craft a more responsive strategy for Filipino families to cope with rising food cost.

Escudero issued this call as headline inflation climbed to 7.2 percent nationwide in April and reached 10.8 percent in Central Visayas and 9.9 percent in Zamboanga Peninsula, among the highest outside Metro Manila. 

Central Visayas’ double-digit spike and Zamboanga’s near double-digit rate highlight the urgency of coordinated action between fiscal and monetary authorities, noting that households and farmers are bearing the brunt of rising food, fuel, and transport costs, Escudero said.

“Bukod sa monitoring, kailangan natin ng agarang tugon para hindi tuluyang lamunin ng presyo ang kita ng mga pamilya, lalo na sa Visayas at Mindanao kung saan mayroon tayong pinakamataas na inflation rates,” he stressed. 

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that headline inflation accelerated sharply from 4.1 percent in March and just 1.4 percent a year earlier, with core inflation also rising to 3.9 percent. The surge was driven mainly by food, transport, and housing costs, underscoring broad pressures across the economy. 

Food inflation reached 6.1 percent, with rice climbing 13.7 percent and corn 21 percent, alongside higher costs for fish, seafood, and vegetables. Transport inflation jumped to 21.4 percent, while housing, electricity, gas, and fuels rose 8.2 percent. These increases were felt most in regions where logistics and agriculture are central to daily life. 

Outside the National Capital Region, inflation averaged 7.7 percent, with Central Visayas remaining the country’s inflation hotspot for the ninth straight month, posting a steep 10.8 percent driven by food and transport costs. Zamboanga Peninsula followed at 9.9 percent; Davao Region at 9.7 percent; SOCCSKSARGEN at 9.6 percent; and Caraga at 9.4 percent.

The lowest was recorded in Negros Island Region at 4.9 percent, showing wide disparities across the country.   While expressing confidence in the administration’s economic team, he stressed the need for tighter alignment between the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

“Improved coordination between fiscal and monetary authorities will be important in the coming months. By working closely with the DOF and the BSP, the government can craft a more responsive strategy that addresses pressures currently affecting the regions,” he pointed out.

“The fight against inflation must be felt most in the regions where families are struggling to keep pace with rising costs,” Escudero said.

48th ASEAN to tackle policy reforms on Myanmar

MACTAN NEWTOWN-- Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Deputy Assistant Secretary and ASEAN 2026 Spokesperson Dominic Xavier Imperial said “No consensus yet on Myanmar polls but engagement continues,” in a press briefing held on May 6 at the International Media Center in Mactan, Cebu along side Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Allan Gepty as part of coverage for the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings.

The main point, Imperial said, is that ASEAN has not reached any consensus with regard to the recognition of the results of the election in Myanmar.  Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing was elected president last month, formalizing his grip on power five years after the 2021 coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi.

ASEAN’s stance is to honor the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) to remain as the main framework for how ASEAN deals with Myanmar. The 5PC priorities include the cessation of violence + humanitarian assistance to Myanmar people and despite no consensus on the polls, there is still continued engagement within the ASEAN region with Myanmar, Imperial shared.

Why the Myanmar briefing matters?

According to Imperial, Myanmar is ASEAN’s biggest internal test: The bloc has been split on how to handle the junta since 2021. Imperial’s remarks confirm no breakthrough on election legitimacy. By reiterating the 5-Point Consensus, PH signaled it won’t abandon ASEAN’s existing peace roadmap despite pressure to take a harder line.

Imperial added that as 2026 chair, the Philippines is balancing “engagement” with Myanmar while upholding ASEAN’s principle of consensus. Current scoreboard, the 5PC still stuck, but PH used Cebu to shift from “criticism” to “confidence-building” with the Suu Kyi access.

Other ASEAN States’ response to PH’s Cebu proposal include current known positions such as Thailand is pushing for unilateral talks with Myanmar before Cebu and wants faster re-engagement.

Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore are typically hardliners and want to keep junta barred from summits until 5PC progress.  Cambodia and Laos tend to favor engagement with junta for border stability. 

Next likely updates and what to watch in Cebu is the joint statements from the May 7-8 Leaders’ Summit proper + Chairman’s Statement because this is where ASEAN formally responds to PH’s Suu Kyi proposal. Other bilateral meetings on Cebu sidelines, and the post-summit press conference from other Foreign Ministers.

 

 

 

RAPID International launches PH’s first ever EV Ambulance in Cebu

CEBU CITY – RAPID International launched in Cebu City its first ever Electric Vehicle (EV) Ambulance in the Philippines on May 4 at the Baywalk, Nustar Resort, Kawit Island in Cebu City, ensuring that this first EV ambulance is made available and committed for use at the 48^th ASEAN Leaders Summit, as already agreed with the committee.

“We are launching the first EV ambulance in the Philippines, aiming to reduce fossil fuel usage and contribute to environmental conservation while saving lives. The ambulance is a hybrid model, using both gasoline and diesel, and is equipped with basic life support as per circulars from the Department of Health (DOH),” said Rafael Enriquez, Executive Director of Rapid International Philippines and CEO of Rapid Ambulance Service and Rapid Air Ambulance, in a side interview before the launching and ribbon cutting ceremony.

Enriquez bared that RAPID is an International Organization with over 80,000 in membership.  RAPID Philippines operates its own Training Department and is currently accredited with the American Safety Health Institute (ASHI) and Department of Health (DOH) and it also operates the RAPID Ambulance Service operating over 35 ambulances and RAPID Air Ambulance with a fleet of Helicopter Ambulances and Airplane Ambulances.

RAPID is a Multi-Awarded and International Civic Humanitarian Organization with its umbrella organization operating as RAPID International Organization, with Volunteers and its Regular Force.  RAPID International Organization is a member of Air-Ambulance.org. It operates its own Ambulance Service with its website: RAPID-Ambulance.com. Always Ready 24/7 "To serve and save lives,” Enriquez added.

“RAPID Philippines was established on August 8, 2008 and today is present in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and has expanded to multiple countries across the globe. This first EV ambulance is the evolution from a single land ambulance to a fleet including fixed-wing and helicopter services,” said Allan Librando, National Chancellor of RAPID International.

Librando expressed pride in RAPID’s dynamic leadership and innovation and expansion from one ambulance to multiple land, air, and sea units and also marking the Philippines' first electric vehicle ambulance.

The launch of the country's first EV ambulance marks a significant step forward in innovation and sustainability for emergency services. The Auto Group, supplier of the EV ambulance celebrates Rapid International's commitment to community service and looks forward to a future where technology enhances emergency response.

Officials of RAPID International said that the introduction of the EV ambulance is described as a bold step towards innovation and a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable service. They envisioned a future where innovation meets service, and technology supports humanity.

“The goal is to build a faster, stronger, and more responsive future for communities, with Rapid International leading the way.  The introduction of the EV ambulance is our testament to innovation and sustainability, and the importance of technology in supporting humanity and building a better future in rescue and disaster response,” Librando said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

ICM opens for the 48th ASEAN Summit, NOC outlines Summit focus

MACTAN NEWTOWN -- The International Media Center (ICM) officially opens in Lapu-Lapu, Cebu, welcoming local and international media covering the 48th ASEAN Summit and related meetings, as the central hub for coverage that provides journalists with the space and support to report, broadcast, and tell the story of a Summit that brings the region together at a critical time.

“President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who chairs this year’s ASEAN, is set to meet with leaders of ASEAN member states--Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam for the biannual summit, where pressing issues such as regional security, energy and food concerns, safety of ASEAN nationals and economic cooperation are expected to be discussed,” bared Hellen De La Vega, ASEAN 2026 National Organizing Council Director General for Operations.

De La Vega outlined the focus of the first summit on the Middle East crisis, including energy security, food security, and safe mobility for ASEAN nationals.  The Philippines' government agencies are working on strategic priorities under the ASEAN political security community pillar, led by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), with a framework called LEAD ASEAN.

For the ASEAN Economic Community pillar, led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the strategic priority framework is called SAIL ASEAN, focusing on trade and investment linkages, digital transformation, MSME development, creative economy, and sustainable and inclusive economies, De La Vega shared.

The ASEAN social, cultural community pillar, led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, has the strategic framework of RISE ASEAN, focusing on resilient and empowered families, inclusive development, smart youth and innovation, and environmentally sustainable food security.

According to De La Vega, the National Organizing Council has implemented a virtual meeting system at the Philippine International Convention Center, completing over 50 virtual preparatory meetings and scheduling 174 more to support the upcoming summit and address potential bad weather.

“We are inviting the media to stay at the IMC for the longest availability of coffee and to learn about the strategic priorities of LEAD, SAIL, and RISE ASEAN,” De La Vega said.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Dave Gomez on the other hand assured that it’s “All Systems Go” for ASEAN Summit.  He is confident that with adequate facilities, the IMC can provide a more comfortable environment for local and international media.

“More than 500 journalists ang magko-cover ng event, based from the accreditation numbers namin. Beginning today, magdadatingan na ‘yung mga kaibigan natin from the international media,” Gomez said. (Photos: MBCNewman & PND)

 

 

 

 

 

Converge powers PH’s hosting of ASEAN meetings

CEBU CITY -- Converge ICT Solutions Inc. was named an official connectivity partner of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for the Philippines’ hosting of key meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), providing 1-gigabit to 5-gigabit speed connectivity in meeting venues and key locations nationwide.

“We are proud to showcase our world-class connectivity to thousands of foreign delegates and Filipino government and business leaders gathering across the country for the slate of ASEAN meetings that the Philippines is hosting this year,” said Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy.

From the airports to meeting venues, Converge is supporting the ASEAN meetings with gigabit connectivity. Converge will also provide uninterrupted, 5-gigabit speeds to the biggest event in this series of meetings, the 48th ASEAN Summit, to be held in the newly-opened Mactan Expo Center this May, Uy added.

“Hosting the ASEAN Summit is a monumental undertaking that puts the eyes of the entire region on us, and seamless connectivity is the backbone of its success. We extend our deepest gratitude to Converge for their unwavering support and world-class service. Their commitment ensured that our delegates remained connected, proving once again that we can achieve great things through Digital Bayanihan and meet the highest international standards,” said DICT Secretary Henry Aguda.

Converge has so far powered up 11 sites across Metro Manila and Cebu. Aside from the Mactan Expo Center, Converge will also be deploying fiber-fast connectivity to selected hosting venues such as five-star hotels NuStar Integrated Hotel and Casino (Cebu), Diamond Hotel Manila Bay, The Peninsula Manila, and Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay, to name a few.

Underlining the importance of reliable broadband internet connectivity is the fact that the Philippines has moved 650 preparatory meetings online in the face of the national emergency on fuel. The 48th ASEAN Summit, where all leaders from the 11 member nations will be present, will continue as a face-to-face event.

“In line with our mission to utilize technology for the good of all, we will continue to strengthen our fiber network in Visayas and Mindanao. Like we’ve announced, we plan to roll out many more ports there this year to increase service coverage. This fortified network allows us to serve expansive venues such as the Mactan Expo Center and several hotels in Cebu,” Uy said.

Moreover, for delegates to experience brisk connectivity upon touchdown, Converge has fully opened the 10 Gbps capacity across all its access points in Ninoy Aquino International Airport terminals one, two, and three.

The Philippines’ hosting of ASEAN this year encompasses nearly all committee and working group meetings, up to the ministerial level and the Summit to be attended by the Heads of State of ASEAN members. (Photos: Google Images)