“Art for Cane” exhibit supports elderly with walking canes

CEBU CITY – Global Creators Festival with young Cebuano artists from the Art Gathering Exhibit Guild (GEG) in partnership with Simply Share Foundation, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).and Radisson Blu Cebu, launched “Art for Cane” exhibition at the hotel’s lower lobby from June 26 to July 31, 2026, aimed at empowering local emerging artists while providing mobility aid to vulnerable senior citizens.

Global Creators Festival founder Mary Jane Salomon said, the "Art for Cane" movement operates under the banner of creativity with accountability. The project transforms creative expression into a tool for restoring dignity to impoverished elderly individuals by funding the purchase of walking canes for senior citizens in remote communities.

The exhibition features an impressive collection of 400 artworks displayed in the lobby of Radisson Blu Cebu, to showcase primarily highlights pieces from young, authentic, emerging Cebuano artists, giving them vital exposure to both local patrons and international hotel guests.

In a poignant addition to the gallery, the exhibition also includes artworks created by Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), brought to the venue through a partnership with the BJMP officials.

“This is a break for them, the young emerging artists who make up most of the exhibitors.  Our initiative is to provide a platform where our artists can be discovered — not only by guests, but by locals who frequent restaurants or attend meetings here.  This opportunity for exhibition is something we believe will leave a lasting impact,” stated Ann Olalo, General Manager of Radisson Blu Cebu.

“Art for Cane” began earlier this year with artists from as far as Baguio, Naga, Cavite, and Cebu donating works in Manila, proceeds go toward providing walking canes to indigent senior citizens in remote communities who have difficulty accessing mobility support, according to Salomon.

“In just three months, from a simple idea, the initiative has evolved into a growing movement. We are able to identify recipients for art for people. Today, thank you for being here. I appreciate that there are 400 artworks in this edition,” Salomon said.

Now expanding its reach to Cebu, the campaign serves as the grand finale to the hotel’s activities for the month of June under its Responsible Business Program.  The exhibition also aligns with June activities for women and youth, with the group partnering with a Global Theatre School Festival to further empower young, authentic artists, Salomon added.

The event also honored veteran muralist and senior artist Jeff Kuan, who was recognized for his continued dedication to mentoring the younger generation of creators in Cebu.

The Simply Share Foundation, led by Dr. Nicole Catalan, serves as the conduit for the collaboration, ensuring that the proceeds from the art sales are directly translated into walking canes and distributed to properly identified elderly beneficiaries.

The "Art for Cane" exhibition is currently open to the public in the lobby of Radisson Blu Cebu from June 26 to July 31.  Radisson invites art enthusiasts and tech-forward philanthropists alike to support the local creative economy while giving back to the community's elders. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

MCIA opens OFW Lounge & Facilitation Center at MCIA-Terminal 2

LAPU-LAPU CITY – The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (AICAC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on June 26 to officially launch and open the new Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Lounge and Facilitation Center at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) Terminal 2, in a major push to elevate the welfare of the country's "modern-day heroes” --the OFWs.

"This is not just a waiting area with chairs, it is a space of care, a space of comfort, tangible proof of love. If OFWs go out to serve the world, their government must serve them first." said Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Atty. Hans Leo Cacdac.

These facilities are core components of MCIA’s CEB Balik program, a strategic initiative designed to establish a comprehensive support system for OFWs right at the airport. 

This facility establishes MCIA as the premier OFW gateway for the Visayas and Mindanao regions, delivering on a public-private partnership aimed at bringing premium comfort and simplified, one-stop government services directly to migrant workers.

Designed with the comfort and needs of OFWs in mind, the new facilities are strategically located to assist OFWs at both ends of their journey:

The OFW Lounge (Terminal 2 Departures Level near Gate 16): A dedicated space for departing OFWs waiting for their flights. It features comfortable seating, charging stations, and refreshments to ensure a relaxing environment before departure. OFWs can also access OWWA programs and services on-site, including OFW e-Card printing.

The OFW Facilitation Center (Terminal 2 Arrivals Level near pick-up area): Established in partnership with Cebu Pacific, this center operates as a one-stop-shop for returning and transiting OFWs. It allows OFWs to handle essential government transactions, such as the processing of Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs), right at the airport.

MCIAA General Manager and CEO Julius Neri, Jr. noted that this project is a testament that when the government and the private sector work hand-in-hand, so much can be achieved.  By centralizing these critical services needed by OFWs and providing a dedicated space for them, the burdens of their travel are significantly eased.

Cebu Provincial Administrator Atty. Joseph Durano, speaking on behalf of governor Pamela Baricuatro, emphasized that the new facility is more than just a waiting area—it is a tangible recognition of the immense sacrifices and economic contributions of the country’s "modern-day heroes."

"Today, we are not simply opening a lounge; we are opening a space that recognizes the dignity, value, and contributions of the men and women who leave home in pursuit of a better future for their loved ones," Durano said during the opening ceremony.  

A Sanctuary of Comfort and Dignity

The newly opened facility is the third international OFW lounge in the country, building on the success of existing hubs in Manila that have already served over two million workers. Designed to mimic premium business-class lounges, the space offers departing and arriving OFWs comfortable seating, refreshments, charging stations, and a welcoming environment.

Additionally, a new partnership with SSP Mactan Cebu will grant the country's 2.7 million active OWWA e-card holders exclusive dining and retail discounts throughout the airport.

Beyond being a rest area, the facility doubles as an OFW Facilitation Center to eliminate the need for workers to travel to regional line agencies before their flights. Staffed by the DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the center provides:

Document Processing: Verification of Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs), exit clearances, and e-card printing.  On-Site Support: Pre-departure briefings, contract verification, and immediate arrival assistance.

DMW Secretary Cacdac emphasized that the government's mandate now strictly shields the worker "before departure, while overseas, and until return."

A Model of Public-Private Partnership

The center was realized through a seamless joint initiative among the DMW, OWWA, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (AICAC), and Cebu Pacific Air. Under the agreement, AICAC provided the prime space in Terminal 2 completely free of charge for five years, while Cebu Pacific partially financed the construction.

"We witness around 60,000 OFWs walk through our airport every year. We understand that our kababayans leave pieces of their hearts to build a better future. By bringing these essential services directly to Cebu, we are giving back what truly matters most—their precious time with their families and less lost time in transit,” said Ricia Vinelli Montejo, General Manager of Aboitiz InfraCapital.

Atty. Maria Cecilia Natividad, Vice President for Corporate Affairs at Cebu Pacific Air, reiterated the airline's commitment to making travel stress-free. By bringing these services closer to where OFWs travel, the centers make the processes simpler and faster. It is a reflection of what can be achieved when government and the private sector work with a common purpose, Natividad stated.

Extending 'Cebuano Charm'

Provincial Administrator Atty. Joseph Durano connected the launch to Cebu’s status as a regional icon of hospitality.

"Through this OFW lounge, we are extending our distinct Cebuano charm to our modern heroes. Know that Cebu stands with you," Durano said, adding that the MCIA Board remains heavily committed to maintaining the hub's standing as a best-in-class airport in the region.

Neri closed by reinforcing the airport’s long-term allegiance to the sector: "The feeling of dignity and pride that we give our workers is priceless. You will get 101% support from the MCIAA."

The Cebu launch is part of a broader directive by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to expand premium OFW dedicated spaces outside of Luzon, with Davao already operational and developments in Clark underway. (Photos: MBCNewman)

𝐁𝐎𝐂 Port of Cebu hosts Q2 CICAC meeting

CEBU CITY—The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Cebu convened its 2nd Quarter Local Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC) Meeting on 24 June 2026 at Summit Galleria Cebu, bringing together customs officials and industry stakeholders to discuss key developments and initiatives aimed at enhancing trade facilitation and customs administration.

The meeting featured presentations on several priority programs and system updates. Atty. Nicolas R. Kyamko III, Head Secretariat of the Super Green Lane (SGL) Program, discussed the Bureau's efforts to facilitate strategic investments through expedited customs processing. 

Meanwhile, Mr. Jonathan T. Soriano of the Management Information System and Technology Group (MISTG) provided updates on the Customs Processing System and other E2M-related concerns, while Mr. Antonio Puda of Ascent Solution Philippines, Inc. presented the latest developments on the Electronic Tracking of Containerized Cargo (E-TRACC) System.

The presentations highlighted the Port's ongoing initiatives to streamline customs procedures, improve system efficiency, and strengthen cargo monitoring. The discussions likewise provided stakeholders with an avenue to gain insights into current customs programs and developments that support a more efficient and predictable trading environment.

District Collector Alexandra Yap-Lumontad emphasized the importance of maintaining strong collaboration between the Bureau and the trade community, noting that sustained engagement and open communication are essential in advancing trade facilitation, promoting compliance, and supporting economic growth in the region.

Aligned with the directives of Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, the Port of Cebu remains committed to strengthening stakeholder engagement and advancing reforms that support legitimate trade, revenue collection, and border protection.

PCSO turns over 18 ambulances to 10 Visayas Provinces

CEBU CITY – The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) turned over 18 Patient Transport Vehicles (PTVs) 10 provinces in the Visayas under its Medical Transport Vehicle Donation Program (MTVDP) on June 25, 2026, at Toyota Mabolo, Pope John Paul ll Avenue, Mabolo, Cebu City, in line with the Marcos administration’s healthcare agenda of bringing quality healthcare services closer to every Filipino.

PCSO general manager, Melquiades Robles said, in his message at the event that the these PTVs will help bring health care services closer to those who need them most, especially those living in remote and underserved communities.

“Likewise, the lotto shares that we will be released today will provide additional sources that can support programs, projects, and initiatives that improve the welfare of your constituents.  More importantly, this gathering serves as a reminder that every PCSO ticket purchased contributes to a greater purpose,” Robles said

These 18 PTVs represent a total investment of P38.502 million from PCSO and were turned over today to the local government units/provinces of Cebu, Bohol, Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Samar, Eastem Samar, Northemn Samar, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.

These are intended to augment the transport capabilities and enhance the delivery of healthcare services, especially in communities where access to hospitals and medical facilities remains a challenge, Robles added.

Toyota-Mabolo in Cebu has already completed distributing ambulances to the different cities and municipalities all over the Philippines. These are Toyota Hi-ace Commuter Deluxe with a 2.8 engine and each unit costs P2.2M to P2.3M and comes with stretcher, oxygen tank, wheelchair, BP monitor, first-aid kit, medicine cabinet, said Yvonne Bala, Toyota-Mabolo sales manager.

 

All of the recipients chose Toyota because of its durability, reliability, and if you are going to bring these vehicles to the provinces, it would be easy to maintain, even like a local mechanic knows how to maintain a Toyota vehicle, Bala added.

Robles bared that with this latest distribution, PCSO has now distributed a total of 1,731 PTVs to provinces, cities, municipalities, and government hospitals nationwide, further strengthening the agency's support for accessible and responsive healthcare services across the country.

PCSO’s goal is one ambulance for each city, municipality nationwide. For the Visayas, there have been three major batches recently including the Negros Island Region + Western Visayas with 82 PTVs in November 2025 at the Bacolod City Gov’t Center; 37 units for NIR--11 Negros Occidental, 22 Negros Oriental, 4 Siquijor; 45 units for Region 6--Aklan 7, Antique 8, Capiz 9, Iloilo 20, and one for Guimaras.

Eastern Visayas had 124 PTVs distributed on August 18, 2025 with Ormoc City led by PBBM, covering Leyte, Samar, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar. Many LGUs got ambulance for first time.  Aklan had 2 PTVs on June 1, 2026 turnover, Part of P26.5M package with medical equipment.

Robles added that the Medical Transport Vehicle Donation Program (MTVDP) is one of PCSO's key initiatives aimed at strengthening local healthcare systems and emergency medical response capabilities.

Through the donation of these PTVs, PCSO helps ensure the safe, efficient, and timely transport of patients, especially those residing in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. The program also supports provincial and local health facilities in responding to medical emergencies, disasters, recovery efforts, and rehabilitation activities.

Cebu Province Governor, Pamela Baricuatro thanked the PCSO for these PTVs, a true value of the collective efforts between the national and local government units to expand health programs to reach even more Filipinos in need of better health services, she said.

By providing these vehicles to local government units, PCSO reinforces its mission of delivering meaningful assistance to communities and improving access to essential healthcare services. The turnover underscores the agency's commitment to translating gaming revenues into programs that directly benefit Filipinos particularly those in need of medical and health-related support

Meanwhile, during the turnover event, the PCSO also distributed checks as lotto shares to select beneficiary local government units from PCSO's lotto revenues for the period of July to December 2025. 

The Province of Cebu received P694,180.45, while the Province of Eastern Samar received P276,825.94 and the Province of Leyte is set to receive P1,095,531.25. Tthe Province of Northern Samar received P986,794.95; thee Province of Negros Oriental received P253,414.53 and the Province of Siquijor received P53,737.56.   The City Government of Cebu received P2,169,768.96.

Robles said that these allocations show how PCSO gaming revenues are returned to communities, helping local governments fund programs and services for their constituents. (Photos: MBCNewman)