Baricuatro champions new era for women governance

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro is reshaping the narrative of leadership that proves strength is not define by gender, but by conviction, clarity and the courage to serve with purpose.

“Leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room.  It is about listening, understanding, and making firm decisions that uplift communities and protect the most vulnerable,” Baricuatro shared, in one of her weekly press briefings.

The governor noted that in a political landscape long defined by traditional power structures and as one of the few women to rise to the highest level of provincial leadership in Cebu, she wants to break the stereotypes in what has historically been a male-dominated space.

She said that in her administration, she demonstrates that empathy and decisiveness are not opposing forces, but complementary strengths that lead to more inclusive and responsive governance.

Baricuatro’s approach to redefine strength in public service challenges outdated perceptions that equate compassion with weakness.  Under her leadership, programs have been designed to address real-life concerns faced by families, women, and children, while maintaining disciplined fiscal management, infrastructure development, and public accountability.

Baricuatro presented her governance model blends, that of Decisive policy-making grounded in consultation and data; community-centered solutions that prioritize long-term social impact; firm leadership that ensures programs are implemented efficiently and with transparency.

This balance has earned her recognition as a leader who is neither “soft” nor symbolic, but strategic, results-driven, and deeply connected to the people she serves.  Central to Governor Baricuatro’s agenda is the belief that empowering women strengthens entire communities.

She added that her administration continues to champion women and child-focused initiatives; expand access to maternal healthcare and nutrition services; strengthen protection systems against violence and exploitation; support livelihood and skills programs for women-led households and promote education and safe environments for children and youth.

“These are not just social programs.  They are investments in the future stability and progress of our province. Our goal is not simply to open doors for women, it is to normalize their presence at every decision-making table,” she said.

Governor Baricuatro’s rise reflects a broader national shift toward more inclusive leadership—one that values collaboration as much as authority and recognizes that resilience can be expressed through both resolve and compassion.

By demonstrating that effective governance can be both empathetic and unyielding when necessary, she is paving the way for more women to step forward, participate, and lead.

As her administration continues to implement reforms and people-centered programs, Governor Baricuatro remains focused on building a model of governance that is transparent, equitable, and future-ready, one that proves leadership is defined not by tradition, but by impact. (Photos: Capitol PIO)

Oslob sea wardens, fisherfolks undergo financial literacy training

OSLOB, Cebu – Some 30 sea wardens and fisherfolks who are members of the Tan-awan Oslob Sea Wardens and Fishermen’s Association (TOSWFA) participated in a financial literacy training supported by the Cebu Provincial Tourism Office (CPTO) on February 19 at the Tan-awan Barangay Hall, Oslob town.

“Oslob is a popular tourism destination in Cebu because of our whale-shark watching and most of our fisherfolks here have been trained as sea wardens who earn from this livelihood.  It is important that they learn financial literacy to strengthen their communities and support sustainable tourism initiatives and practices,” Oslob mayor, Ronald Guaren said, in his welcome message.

The Provincial Tourism recognized that empowered stakeholders create stronger destinations. It said that by enhancing financial knowledge among local stakeholders, communities are better positioned to protect marine resources, deliver responsible tourism services and ensure that tourism growth remains inclusive and beneficial to both residents and visitors.

Jose Randy Lupango, president and chief executive officer of LogicForce Consultancy Corporation and a veteran of the hospitality and tourism industry facilitated the training.  Lupango, whose background includes serving as chief finance officer of Amici Initiati Incorporated, shared his expertise in fiscal responsibility and strategic planning with the participants.

Lupango has conducted management by Objectives training programs focused on guiding organizations and communities toward financial growth, stability and responsible money management.  He designed the training especially for sea wardens and fisherfolk who serve as stewards of Oslob’s marine tourism resources.

Scope of the training include budgeting, savings, income planning and responsible financial management. Organizers said equipping participants with practical financial skills helps strengthen economic resilience, reduce vulnerability and promote sustainable livelihoods for those directly contributing to Cebu’s coastal tourism industry.

 

Strategic leadership, engineering precision to speed up Cebu’s infra development

 CEBU CITY – Strategic leadership and engineering precision are working synchronicity of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Vince Dizon and Engr. Simon Arias to push and accelerate economic and infrastructure development of Cebu and Central Visayas.

Observers note that such professional alignment between Vince Dizon and Engr. Simon Arias stands as a model of strategic synchronicity where policy direction and on-the-ground execution move in deliberate, coordinated rhythm.

“As Cebu and other growth center in the Visayas continue to evolve, we underscore the importance of alignment and collaboration in governance and development because transformative projects are rarely the result of singular leadership, but rather of complementary expertise working toward a unified goal, while maintaining integrity, safety, and community relevance,” a businessman and a political observer here said.

According to Dizon and Arias that strategic leadership and technical expertise are essential to delivering meaningful infrastructure and development outcomes.  Their collaboration reflects a shared philosophy that progress is most impactful when planning and execution are not isolated processes, but interconnected disciplines.

Dizon is known for driving large-scale programs with a focus on efficiency, accountability, and national development.  He brings a results-oriented framework that emphasizes speed without sacrificing sustainability.

Engr. Arias complements this approach with his engineering leadership that ensures infrastructure vision is translated into structurally sound, community-responsive, and technically precise implementation of programs and projects.

Their professional synergy has enabled smoother project coordination, reduced operational friction and enhanced responsiveness to local needs ensuring that initiatives are not only completed, but completed with purpose and long-term value in mind.

Both leaders demonstrate how infrastructure and development initiatives can move from blueprint to reality with clarity, discipline, and measurable outcomes. (Photos: DPWH/Google Images)

 

 

 

 

DOST-7 gears up for scholarship exam on February 21-22

CEBU CITY – The Department of Science and Technology Regional Office VII (DOST-7) gears up for the upcoming DOST Undergraduate Scholarship Examinations scheduled this weekend, February 21–22 by conducting an orientation briefing on February 19 at the Elena O. Diola Memorial Hall, Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu City for 2026 scholarship test personnel.

DOST-7 regional director Tristan Abando said the examinations are administered across 25 test centers in Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, requiring coordinated efforts from examination supervisors, room watchers, and technical support teams, with the testing center located at DOST-7, the Lahug S&T Complex, Sudlon, Cebu City.

Abando underscored the importance of preparedness and professionalism among test personnel as the agency welcome thousands of aspiring scholars aiming to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees.

The DOST Undergraduate Scholarships Program remains one of the agency’s flagship initiatives to nurture future scientists and innovators who will help drive national development.  DOST reports said that the 2025 DOST Scholarship Exam had 84,518 examinees nationwide with 215 testing centers across the country and about 10,907 qualifiers or 12.90 percent passing rate.

Eligible to take the exams are Grade 12 students (STEM or top 5% of non-STEM), graduates of senior high school, or those who haven't enrolled in college, with good moral character, good health, and no prior post-secondary units.  Exam coverage includes logical reasoning, English, Science, Mathematics, and Mechanical-Technical.

Total examinees for Central Visayas and Negros Island Regions are 8,763 with Cebu has 4,937; Bohol with 2,493; NegOr with 1,330 and Siquijor with three examinees.  There are 102,436 examinees nationwide this year. (Photos: DOST-7)

Sinag Liga Asya spotlights Cebu to host the SLA Jr. world basketball tourney

CEBU CITY-- Sinag Asya Sports Management & Promotions, also known as Sinag Liga Asya (SLA) to spotlight Cebu as host to the 2026 SLA Jr. World Showcase, a basketball tournament featuring 50 elite junior teams from the Philippines and abroad set to happen in Cebu on July 1 to 5, 2026.

“This is more than just a tournament. We are expecting a huge crowd from the local and foreign participating teams including the United Prep Canada, led by head coach Tony Tan; Teams from the United States, United Arab Emirates, Australia, Austria, and the United Kingdom and local teams from the Philippines, including squads from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao,” said Rocky Chan, SLA chairman at the press conference Wednesday, February 18 at Treewoods Residences, Apas, Cebu City.

Chan added that the tournament features different age categories, including Under-13, U-15, U-17, U-19, and U-21 divisions. Games are played across four major venues in Metro Cebu with the historic Cebu Coliseum to host the grand opening ceremony on July 1, where participating teams are expected to march in a colorful parade symbolizing unity and sportsmanship.

The succeeding five days (July 1-5) games are played at the Cebu Coliseum, Magnum Sports Complex, Sawang Calero Sports Complex and in Mandaue Sports Complex.  “It’s an opportunity for young athletes to experience international competition at an early stage and build friendships beyond borders,” Chan added.

Chan said the SLA Jr. World Showcase event aims to provide a platform for young basketball talents to showcase their skills and compete with international teams; promote grassroots basketball development in the Philippines and abroad; foster sports tourism and cultural exchange among participating teams and provide opportunities for young athletes to compete and gain exposure.

Meanwhile, EJ Fiehl, Deputy Commissioner and JWS Tournament Director revealed that the status of basketball in remote barangays indicates a desire to build and develop players and efforts are being made to build and train players, with a focus on creating a new basketball system.

“There are still challenges but also greater opportunities in developing basketball talent in remote areas, and we appreciate the efforts being made to support basketball in the country, especially coming mostly from the private sector,” Fiehl said.

Cebu as a global stage for sports tourism

Billed as one of the most anticipated grassroots tournaments of the year, the SLA Jr. World Showcase brings together young athletes from across the country and various countries abroad, reinforcing Cebu’s standing as a premier sports tourism destination, said Rey Alao, President, SLA during the February 18 press conference in Cebu City.

Alao noted that the five-day tournament is expected to provide a global platform for rising basketball prospects to showcase their skills against international competition. Organizers emphasized that beyond the trophies and medals, the event seeks to promote sports development, discipline, and cultural exchange among the youth.

The event also aligns with broader efforts to strengthen grassroots basketball programs and inspire the next generation of Filipino athletes, Alao added that with its deep basketball culture and strong community support, Cebu provides the perfect backdrop for an event of this magnitude.

Local government representatives and the Department of Tourism (DOT) in the region reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the tournament’s success, highlighting its potential impact on local businesses, hospitality, and tourism sectors.

“We are very optimistic that the SLA Jr. World Showcase 2026 will not only deliver high-level competition but also leave a lasting legacy for youth basketball development in the region.  Cebu, in the next five days on July 1 to 5 becomes the global court, where young dreamers compete, cultures connect, and the future of basketball shines brightly under the Sinag Liga Asya banner,” Rocky Chan concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

Cebu joins Yakult 10-Miler Trilogy Run with Manila and Davao

CEBU CITY—The 2026 edition of Yakult 10-Miler run features a three-city series with Davao, Manila and now Cebu to reinforce its stature as the premier, professionally managed nationwide road running event and it stands as one of the longest-running and most respected road races in the Philippines presented by Yakult Philippines, Inc. and organized by Hyvesports.

“The move aligns with the company’s core mission of promoting wellness among Filipinos.  As part of our mission, we really wanted to expand good health towards the Filipino society. So, it would be a good opportunity for us, not only to concentrate in one area, but to expand our horizons,” said Michael Eric Ong, Yakult Philippines, Vice-President, at the press conference, February 18, at Seda Central Bloc, Cebu City.

Ong bared that the long-term vision of the event goes beyond product presence, focusing instead on sustained community engagement and wellness-driven initiatives in key urban centers nationwide. “We wanted to maintain our commitment in promoting good health to the Filipinos.  Of course, as a part of our long-term goal is to be able to make sure that Yakult is available by the brand, not only by the brand, but as well as our product, as well as our activities in all key cities."

With the official tagline, “34 Years Strong, Where an Iconic Run Meets a Commitment to Live Well and Run Strong,” the nationwide road race continues to inspire Filipinos to embrace active living and preventive healthcare as foundations of overall well-being, Ong added.

Justine Cordero-Em, CEO, HyveSports told media that for 34 years, Yakult has consistently promoted physical fitness, gut health, and balanced daily habits, which are key pillars in Yakult’s philosophy of preventive healthcare and emphasized the deeper meaning behind the event’s presence in the Queen City of the South.

“The Yakult 10-Miler returns in 2026, celebrating over three decades of unwavering advocacy for health and fitness in the country. I think it's the heritage that we all belong to one community, one country. And at the end of the day, you are part of this legacy,” Em said.

The 2026 edition features a three-city run series with the following schedules: ‎Davao Leg is on July 12, 2026 at the Davao Global Township.  The Cebu Leg happens on August 23, at the SM Seaside City Cebu and the Manila Leg is on October 18 at the SM Mall of Asia Complex.

Flagship distances and registration rates include the following: 16KM at P1,250; 10KM at P950; 5KM at P650 and 3KM at P650. This makes the event inclusive and open to runners of all fitness levels. It welcomes everyone, from professional athletes to amateur runners, fitness enthusiasts, families, and first-time participants, Justine Em added.

Justine shared that Participants in 16km (10-Mile) category will receive a Singlet, 16km Finisher’s Shirt, 16km Finisher’s Medal, Mr. Yakult Plushie and sponsors freebies.

For Early bird registration is until January 31, regular registration is until April 30 and last chance starts May 1.  For inquiries/registration go to https://registration.yakult10miler.com/register/34th-yakult-10-miler-trilogy-cebu.

According to Yasuyuki Yufune, Yakult Philippines, Inc. Executive Vice president that the Yakult 10-Miler is a nationwide movement that encourages Filipinos to take proactive steps toward long-term wellness through proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and healthy lifestyle habits.

‎Anchored on Yakult’s Shirota-ism philosophy, the event underscores the importance of gut health as a cornerstone of overall wellness. By promoting running as an accessible and sustainable form of exercise, the race empowers individuals, families, and communities to build healthier routines together, Yufune said.

Meanwhile, HyveSports, a premier sports and events management company in the Philippines, ensures that each leg of the Yakult 10-Miler delivers a safe, world-class race experience through professional race management standards and innovative event execution.

‎ Hyvesports officials, Julius Em, President and Justine Cordero-Em, Chief Executive Officer, their presence reflects hands-on leadership and a shared dedication to excellence in sports event management and athlete experience.

“What sets this event apart from the rest is its longevity and steadfast commitment. You can see the commitment, not only to a healthier lifestyle, but really a commitment to stick to what they want, what they believe in and what they truly value,” Justine Em said.

For 34 years strong, the Yakult 10-Miler remains where Filipinos come together to live well and run strong. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

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Cebu’s 11th International Travel Festival expects over 100 exhibitors this year

CEBU CITY – The International Travel Festival (ITF) marks its 11^th this year as the region's premier travel extravaganza and is expecting more than 100 exhibitors and 200 booths to showcase exclusive deals, packages and experiences from airlines, hotels, resorts, cruise lines, travel agencies, visa specialists and tourism boards, set to happen on March 13-15, 2026 at the Pacific Grand Ballroom of the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.

“For over a decade, ITF has been the ultimate stage where wanderlusts meet opportunity, and this year promises to be its most dynamic edition yet. For three thrilling days, Cebu becomes the epicenter of global travel as over 100 exhibitors and nearly 200 booths showcase ITF 2026, where journeys begin, connections are made and dreams take flight,” said Thannya Pino, one of the ITF organizers, in her opening remarks at the media launch on February 18 at Radisson Blu Hotel, Cebu City.

Pino added that ITF was founded in 2014 and it has grown into the region’s premier consumer event, it is more than a festival, the ITF has become a movement, a platform that connects communities, fosters partnerships and positions Cebu as a gateway to global travel opportunities.

Riza Marie Macaibay of the Department of Tourism (DOT)-Region VII described the ITF as an event that aims to inspire travelers to explore diverse destinations and promote sustainable tourism and mentioned the importance of the ITF in telling stories of travel and its impact on the community.

“Continue to work towards your role in fostering partnerships and celebrates 11 years of operation, expressing confidence in your future. Your theme this year, “Dream, Go. Live” encourages travelers to explore new destinations and experience diverse cultures,” Macaibay added.

Signature programs of ITF

The Cebu Travel Exchange (CTX) on March 12, is now on its 8th edition of this business to business (B2B) networking event that brings together top tourism professionals to forge partnerships, spark collaborations and shape the future of travel, from 12:00 NN to 05:00 PM at the Atlantic Hall of the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.

Tourism Students Day (TSD) on March 13-14, is a vibrant showcase of Cebu's brightest tourism and hospitality students featuring competitions in tour guiding, quiz bowls, cultural performances and more.

ITF Food City is “All Three Days” of gustatory feast, from Cebu’s crispy lechon to international favorites like pizza, ice cream, pastries.  “The ITF Food City is the passport to the comforts of home.  While pondering on the exclusive travel deals curated for you, we invite you to a warm space that celebrates the flavors Cebuanos turn to for joy, nostalgia and togetherness. A taste of home. A taste of the world,” organizers said.

The ITF Family Day on March 15 is a celebration of faith, fun and togetherness. On the last day of ITF, families are invited to gather for a special tradition—the ITF Family Day. This meaningful closing event begins with a Eucharistic celebration, offering a moment of thanksgiving and reflection for the journeys shared and the connections made, After the mass, the atmosphere shifts into pure joy and laughter with fun and activities for the little ones. (Photos: MBCNewman)