MOVE IT rolls out new branding promise of safety, reliability and professionalism

CEBU CITY -- Motorcycle taxi platform MOVE IT rolled out its new brand promise, “Keep Moving,” that is anchored on the importance of safe rides, reliable bookings, and professional moto-taxi standards in their operations, supported by technology, in a media MOVE IT launching event, February 5, 2026 at Cur8, BTC, Banilad Cebu City.

The brand promise is rooted in a reality many commuters know too well: the constant struggle of traffic. Rich Manuel, Driver Engagement Lead, emphasized the importance of safety, reliability, and professionalism in their operations. "The company ensures that bookings are respected and time is managed efficiently through advanced mapping and routing systems," Manuel said.

Real-time road conditions are considered to provide accurate ETAs and optimize pickup and drop-off points.  Back-to-back bookings are used to reduce idle time between rides, increasing productivity and service quality.  Enhanced Safety Features from pickup to drop-off, passengers are protected by various safety features designed for real-time scenarios, Manuel shared.

Manuel added that tools like "Share Your Drive" allow passengers to share trip details with others for added security.   A Safety Center is available for easy contact with authorities in case of emergencies.  Trips are monitored for unusual patterns, such as unexpected stops, to trigger proactive checks and ensure passenger safety.

According to Manuel that MOVE IT has enabled tools like "Audio Protect" to support the proper review of safety-related incidents.  These tools help establish credible context when resolving reports and maintaining high standards. “safety is non-negotiable and that speed-related safety measures are in place and over-speeding alerts are used to ensure that riders maintain safe driving speeds,” Manuel bared.

Manuel also said that the company encourages feedbacks from everyone to protect the platform and maintain high standards.  Reporting issues helps the company address any shortcomings and improve service quality.  

He highlighted the importance of professionalism with rider partners being screened, trained, and continuously reinforced on road discipline, service quality, and passenger courtesy. The company holds itself to the highest standards in the motor taxi industry to ensure a safe and reliable service.

MOVE IT’s “Keep Moving” promise is powered by a combination of industry-leading and platform-exclusive reliability tools like intelligent trip routing and rider matching, in-app safety safeguards, and a community of professional rider-partners. Together, these help commuters navigate the gridlock in metro cities with greater confidence.

MOVE IT highlighted reliability features designed to help commuters get served faster, while supporting rider-partner productivity on the road. The platform is powered by GrabMaps and Navigation, which helps deliver accurate ETAs, smarter pick-up and drop-off points, and routing that adapts to real-time road conditions.

In a media interview in Cebu, Thursday, MOVE IT recognized the role of the rider-partner and the community in reinforcing everyday professionalism standards on the road, from compliance requirements and protective gear to defensive driving and passenger courtesy.

MOVE IT currently serves key areas across Metro Cebu, including Cebu City, Mandaue City, Lapulapu City, Cordova, Liloan, Consolacion, Minglanilla, and Talisay City. (Photos: MOVE IT/MBCNewman)

DENR-7 reopens Virgin Island in Bohol, must adhere to Marine Tourism Guidelines

CENTRAL VISAYAS-- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Region VII, the Provincial Government of Bohol, the Local Government Unit of Panglao, and the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) reopened Puntod Island, which is frequently referred to as Virgin Island, within the Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS) on February 2, 2026 following the approval of PAMB Resolution No. 03, Series of 2026, lifting the temporary closure order that was imposed in 2024 due to reported incidents of coral vandalism at the Estaca snorkeling site in August 2024. 

The re-opening of Virgin Island is contingent upon strict adherence to the DENR Ecotourism Guidelines, Marine Tourism Guidelines, and existing environmental laws on sustainable and responsive ecotourism, as emphasized by DENR-7.

"The regulated reopening serves as a testament to our commitment to environmental protection,” said Laudemir Salac, Regional Executive Director of DENR-7 OIC and the Chairperson of PAMB as he reiterated the continued importance of environmental protection.

Salac stated that to guarantee the long-term preservation of Virgin Island's marine resources, tourism activities must adhere to the ecotourism guidelines of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Continuous monitoring is implemented to prevent environmental degradation, and clear regulations are enforced regarding visitor management, carrying capacity, waste management, and the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems, Salac said.

The temporary closure was implemented in response to reported incidents of coral vandalism at the Estaca snorkeling site in August 2024. In response, the DENR, in collaboration with the LGU-Panglao and partner agencies, immediately conducted investigations, identified the individuals involved, and initiated the filing of appropriate legal actions through the PIPS Protected Area Management Office (PAMO).

Key interventions were implemented during the closure period to enhance the safety of visitors and the protection of the site. The DENR CRERDEC and CDD-CMEMP with the PIPS PAMO conducted coral and site assessments, which included the installation of mooring buoys and navigational guides.

Additionally, the DENR -7 Team implemented the construction of a ticketing booth and the implementation of capacity-building activities, such as basic life support training, water safety training, and DOT accreditation for local boat operators.

The PAMB's decision to lift the temporary closure was predicated on the successful implementation of these interventions and the dedication of stakeholders to adhere to the Marine Tourism Guidelines that were adopted within the protected seascape.

Salac urged all stakeholders, including tour operators and visitors, to support environmental regulations and help maintain Virgin Island as a model of sustainable ecotourism in the PanglaoIsland Protected Seascape. (Photos: DENR-7)

FL Liza Marcos-Baricuatro meet necessary with Cebu’s role in ASEAN Summit 2026

CEBU CITY – The meeting between First Lady Liza Marcos and Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro was a necessary and official engagement relative to Cebu’s role as key host and logistics center during the ASEAN Summit 2026.

“This meeting was about work—about preparedness, coordination, and ensuring that Cebu delivers when called upon on the international stage.  That is the duty of the Governor, and that is exactly what was done,” Baricuatro explained to remove public speculations.

It was explained that the ASEAN Summit is not merely a diplomatic gathering but a global platform that places the host province under international scrutiny. For Cebu, this means demonstrating competence, efficiency, and readiness across multiple sectors, from public safety to hospitality and urban mobility. Strategic alignment between national and provincial leadership is therefore indispensable.

Baricuatro is responsible of ensuring that the province is fully prepared to meet the international standards required for an event of this magnitude. This responsibility encompasses close coordination with national leadership and relevant agencies on critical areas such as security planning, infrastructure readiness, transportation systems, protocol management, and the overall operational capacity of Cebu to host foreign heads of state and high-level delegations.

The First Lady, on the other hand, plays an active role in national initiatives involving cultural representation, social development, and inter-agency coordination for major international events and she has to engage with Governor Baricuatro to ensure that national objectives are seamlessly translated into effective provincial execution.

The discussion between the ladies focused on harmonizing efforts, streamlining coordination, and reinforcing Cebu’s preparedness to support the broader goals of the Philippine government during the summit.  Baricuatro emphasized that engagements with national leaders form a fundamental part of governance, particularly when the province is entrusted with responsibilities that carry both national and international significance.

The Provincial Government of Cebu affirmed that all actions taken in relation to the ASEAN Summit are anchored on public interest, institutional coordination, and the long-term development and global positioning of the province. Preparations are being carried out with a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and the lasting benefits that such a global event brings to Cebu and its people.

Cebu’s strategic importance in the Visayas region makes such high-level coordination not optional but essential. As a central hub for commerce, tourism, and international connectivity, the province is expected to function as a reliable anchor for summit-related activities.

The meeting underscored Cebu’s readiness and reaffirmed its role as a capable and dependable partner in hosting major international gatherings, as the Province is committed to professionalism, transparency, and effective governance as it fulfills its role in the ASEAN Summit, confident in its ability to represent the province and the country with competence and distinction on the international stage. (Photos: Baricuatro-FB)

 

 

 

CitySavings helps build, refurbish 30+ schools nationwide in 2025

 CEBU CITY -- City Savings Bank (CitySavings), the thrift bank arm of the Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines helped build and refurbish more than 30 learning spaces nationwide in 2025, as the bank’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative promoting quality education in the country.

CitySavings President and CEO Manuel Santiago, Jr shared that the Bank remains steadfast in its commitment to actively support DepEd’s programs, by co-creating safe and empowered learning spaces.  “We are investing in the future of every Filipino learner,” Santiago added.

The transformed learning spaces benefit more than 2,500 teachers and nearly 44,000 learners, aligning with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) five-point agenda to address basic education challenges.

CitySavings significantly contributed to major construction projects in 2025 in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and other community partners in major construction projects in Bashoy Elementary School in Kabayan, Benguet, and Santiago South Central School in Santiago City, Isabela.

The project also reached several schools in Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Bulacan, Tarlac, Laguna, Albay, Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Southern Leyte, Davao del Norte, South Cotabato, Lanao del Norte, and Surigao del Norte for repairs and refurbishments, Santiago bared.

Melozar Dizon, principal of Santiago South Central School, Santiago City, Isabela expressed their gratitude to City Savings Bank for its unwavering support that goes beyond infrastructure, she added that it inspires hope and a positive change and leaves a lasting impact on the lives of learners and the entire school community.

City Savings Bank also repaired the damaged classroom roofing at Old Fabrica Elementary School in La Castellana, Negros Occidental, helping restore a safe and conducive learning environment for educators and learners affected by the Mt. Kanlaon eruption.

School Head Dennis Calataro of Old Fabrica Elementary School, La Castellana, Negros Occidental said that the Bank’s assistance came in when resources were scarce and the needs were many.  “This act was not just about providing materials; it was about giving our learners a safe space to dream, learn, and grow despite the disaster that had shaken our community,” he said.

In Davao del Norte, the Bank has also helped repair a school clinic at Panabo City National High School in Davao del Norte. Principal Manuel Esperanza, gushed at the more comfortable and fully-functional school clinic.

For 2026, CitySavings reaffirms its support for DepEd’s Adopt-a-School Program (ASP) to contribute to more classroom construction and repair projects, with the aim to reach as many learners as possible.  Santiago said that the Bank continues to provide relevant, accessible, and sustainable CSR programs that elevate the lives of the people it serves, especially the education sector. (Photos: CitySavings)

 

 

 

 

 

DPWH-7 welcomes its new regional director

CEBU CITY—The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Region VII has a new regional director, Engr. Simon Arias, whose appointment was made public by Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon on January 22, 2026 as part of the major shake up in 12 of the 17 regional district offices of the DPWH.

He replaced Danilo Villa, who was named as one of the DPWH regional directors undergoing a lifestyle check.  Arias is a former Catanduanes DEO District Engineer and a seasoned career official that continues to earn the confidence of national leadership as he assumes the post of Regional Director for DPWH Central Visayas (Region VII), marking a significant milestone in his decades-long public service career.

Engr. Arias’ appointment comes amid a broader government effort to strengthen accountability and performance within the DPWH, particularly following a nationwide reshuffling linked to flood control projects. His elevation to one of the department’s key regional leadership roles underscores institutional trust in his technical competence, administrative experience, and capacity to deliver results under pressure.

Arias is widely recognized for his tenure as District Engineer of the Albay 1st District Engineering Office, where he served for four years and maintained the district’s standing as a “Model DEO.” Under his leadership, the office received top performance awards at the regional level (Region V), reflecting effective project management, timely implementation, and adherence to standards.

Throughout his career, Arias has overseen the completion of numerous major infrastructure projects across the Bicol Region, including; Flood Mitigation and SIPAG Projects, such as the breakwater construction in Palnab, Virac, aimed at strengthening coastal protection; Educational Infrastructure, including multi-storey school buildings like the Capitolina O. Legaspi Memorial High School in Masbate, supporting access to quality education; and Road Network Improvements, notably the upgrading of key thoroughfares such as the Salog-Damacan Road in Albay, improving mobility and local economic activity.

During his assignment in Catanduanes, he served amid a period marked by leadership instability, where five district engineers rotated in just four years.  Reports at the time pointed to intense political pressure surrounding procurement processes and contractor preferences—conditions that contributed to frequent leadership changes rather than individual administrative failure.

In 2017, his office in Albay was also drawn into public scrutiny following concerns raised by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) over a proposed P7-billion Mayon Circumferential Road project that allegedly encroached on the volcano’s Permanent Danger Zone. The issue highlighted the complex balance between infrastructure development and environmental protection in hazard-prone areas.

Earlier in 2016, Arias was reportedly relieved from a post in Camarines Norte following allegations related to bidding and project implementation. He categorically denied the accusations, and no conviction or final adverse ruling was established against him.

In late 2025, he was among officials affected by a nationwide DPWH reshuffle tied to flood control reforms. Notably, while others faced suspension, Arias was later appointed to a higher leadership position, reinforcing the department’s assessment of his professional standing.

As Engr. Arias takes on his new role in Central Visayas, his career reflects the realities faced by long-serving public officials, marked by measurable accomplishments, challenging assignments, and continued trust from the institution he serves.

Clarification on Identity

The DPWH and concerned stakeholders emphasize that Engr. Simon N. Arias is not the same person as Florendo Arias, a former DPWH assistant director who was convicted in a separate and unrelated “ghost repair” graft case. Any attempt to associate Engr. Simon N. Arias with that case is factually incorrect and misleading.

Recently, Engr. Simon Arias with his team paid a courtesy call to Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival where they discuss concerns, updates, and shared responsibilities in improving public works for Cebu City.

According to Archival, the discussion covered the status of ongoing projects, planned developments, and practical ways to strengthen coordination between DPWH and the city, particularly in road works and other key infrastructure. (Photos: DPWH7/Cebu City PIO-FB)

 

MCIA welcomes 1.3M passengers in January 2026, highest record for a month in history

LAPULAPU CITY -- Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) sets all-time monthly passenger traffic record in January 2026 at 1.3M, marking a 15 percent increase compared to its 1.1 million passengers recorded during the same period in 2025 and the highest passenger traffic for a month recorded in history.

"This exceptional start to 2026 is a testament to the growing demand for Cebu as a global destination and a key transit hub.  Our strategic efforts to expand our network—bringing in new partners like Vietnam Airlines, Aero-K, Jetstar Airways and Firefly Airlines, and opening direct links to cities like Hanoi, Cheongju, Brisbane, and Macau—are bearing fruit,” said Athanasios Titonis, Chief Executive Officer of Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC).

The surge in passenger traffic reinforces the airport’s sustained demand for travel to Cebu, Titonis added that domestic traffic rose by 12 percent from its January 2025 traffic, while international traffic saw a remarkable 25 percent jump from the January 2025 traffic.

While the surge in passenger traffic can be attributed to the influx of tourists and returning Filipinos for the Sinulog festival, the opening of new international routes and the entry of new airline partners have significantly boosted connectivity, making Cebu more accessible to all passengers, Titonis added.

“We are committed to maintaining this momentum by ensuring that every passenger experiences the warmth and efficiency of MCIA,” Titonis said adding that in 2025, MCIA introduced eight new routes and welcomed new foreign-based airline partners such as Jetstar Airways, Vietnam Airlines, Firefly Airlines, and Aero-K.

Julius Neri, Jr., General Manager and CEO of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) expressed optimism that this upward trajectory continues as MCIA opens more doors to the world.  “These figures reflect the strong collaboration between the government and our private sector partners as the ideal entry point to the Philippines," Neri said.

In another development, MCIA officially receives Level 3 of the ACI Customer Experience Accreditation, advancing from our previous Level 2 recognition.  This achievement shows that MCIA is progressing from simply listening to passengers to actively engaging with them.  

At Level 3, MCIA improves customer experience by using passenger feedback, empowered staff, and expert teams to make lasting improvements. This means better experiences for passengers and a strong commitment to quality and service for our stakeholders.

Titonis added that MCIA continues to innovate with initiatives like CEBConnects, ensuring seamless transfers for the growing number of passengers utilizing Cebu as their hub.  He remains optimistic about sustaining this momentum, with more route launches and infrastructure enhancements in the pipeline for 2026.

“Your support makes this journey possible. We keep raising the bar for airport experience in the Philippines,” Titonis said. (Photos:MCIA)

Cebu City to make books, literacy resources more available to communities

CEBU CITY – Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival and Lost Books Cebu managing owner, Donald Villamero discussed lengthily on how the Cebu City Government and Lost Books Cebu can collaborate to come up with a project making books and other literacy resources more available and accessible to communities, especially in remote barangays of Cebu City.

Villamero, a staunch advocate for love of books and reading, visited City Hall on February 3 for a courtesy call to mayor Archival to pitch for his passion of expanding access to books and supporting local writers in the City. Villamero also owns the Lost Books Cebu Café at GF, CAO Mercado Bldg, Osmeña Blvd, Capitol Site, Cebu City.

“We welcome Donald Villamero for a meaningful discussion on how we can further support local writers and make books more accessible to our communities. It is encouraging to see initiatives that uplift Cebuano voices and bring local stories closer to readers,” mayor Archival said.

The discussion centered of initiatives that aim to bring books closer to communities, particularly in areas with limited access to reading materials.  They also talked about programs of the National Book Development Board, including Book Nook: Aklat Para sa Lahat, and possible areas of collaboration between the city government and private partners to support and expand similar efforts.

These programs are seen as vital in promoting literacy, nurturing a love for reading, and uplifting Cebuano stories and voices.  Archival said that he is ready to support, in a simple but meaningful way, such as the use of available personal vehicles to start with a mobile library, including logistical assistance to help pilot projects like mobile libraries and community book hubs.

“With collaboration, more and more children and families are given opportunities to learn and be inspired to learn,” Archival stated.

Villamero said he is beyond grateful for the opportunity to exchange ideas with mayor Archival on how they can cultivate the love of reading in the community.  “We look forward to collaborating with your office on your plans to set up more libraries and book nooks, and possibly a mobile library, which is so exciting,” he said, in his Facebook post.

Lost Books Cebu is known for curating and redistributing pre-loved and rare books, supporting local authors, and making books more affordable and accessible.  Selected titles from Lost Books Cebu are also available online, allowing readers to browse and purchase books even beyond physical pop-ups and community events.

Archival and Villamero also discussed initial steps including partnerships with groups like Lost Books Cebu and exploring innovative approaches such as mobile libraries to reach more residents, especially children and families. 

Archival also bared that as part of the City’s goal to make learning more accessible, he wants the City Council to revisit the policy direction on having a public library in every barangay and identifying practical steps to help move this forward. (Photos: Cebu City PIO)