Best Buddy-PH selects a Cebu school as chapter for inclusive elementary

 CEBU CITY – Best Buddy-Philippines and the Children’s Paradise Montessori School (CPMS) in Canduman, Mandaue City forged a collaborative partnership to pilot  inclusive elementary education program with other schools in Cebu especially for neuro-diverse children and adults.

“Best Buddies is a global initiative that fosters inclusion and friendship for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). It is a globally recognized initiative that promotes inclusion for individuals with IDD for over a decade now in the Philippines,” Michele Ressa Aventajado, Executive Director of Best Buddies Philippines has been at the helm of this transformative movement since its inception.

Aventajado said that Best Buddies-PH was founded with a mission to create opportunities for friendship, leadership, and employment. The program has touched the lives of countless individuals by fostering an inclusive community where everyone, regardless of ability, is valued.

Marivic Bathan, CPMS Founder and President, in an interview with the Cebu Online News Press Corps (CONPC) bared that this partnership is a collaboration long overdue because Best Buddies programs on inclusivity aligns well with CPMS’ commitment to inclusion since the founding of the school.

“We saw a lot of alignment with CPMS programs especially in inclusion and Best Buddies was looking for partner to pilot its elementary program in Cebu, that was not implemented yet because Best Buddies has not found a suitable partner until we have the chance to meet and discuss the possibilities of piloting elementary inclusive education program in Cebu,” Bathan shared.

Bathan explained that Best Buddies Philippines chose CPMS since it fosters an inclusive environment where students with and without disabilities learn and grow together. The school has been looking for a program that supports not only its current students, and alumni who continue to face challenges as they transition into adulthood.

Through this collaboration, CPMS will now serve as a Best Buddies chapter, spearheading both the elementary program and future initiatives that aim to provide ongoing support for individuals with IDD, she said.

Bathan emphasized the impact of Best Buddies' flagship pre-employment program, which complements CPMS's existing initiatives for young adults. With this partnership, the school hopes to continue promoting inclusion and support for students and their families, paving the way for a more inclusive community in Cebu.

"We further inclusion through three pillars: friendship, leadership, and employment. These pillars serve as the foundation for the program's activities, designed to empower individuals with IDD by connecting them with peers, mentors, and job opportunities," Aventajado explained.

Aventajado said that by partnering with CPMS, Best Buddies Philippines is piloting its elementary school program to create a nurturing space where students with and without disabilities can learn, grow, and thrive together.

Beyond the school partnerships, the program also engages parents, educators, and local businesses to create a broader understanding of inclusion.  Best Buddies Philippines’ aims to uplift individuals with IDD, and educate and involve the larger community through workshops, leadership seminars, and social events like the mini friendship walk.

In addition to the core pillars of friendship and leadership, Best Buddies is actively working on employment programs, ensuring that individuals with IDD are given the chance to contribute to society in meaningful ways.

"We're planting seeds of inclusion and these seeds, nurtured through partnerships with schools, businesses, and families, will help shape a future where individuals with disabilities are seen, heard, and fully embraced as vital members of society, Aventajado said.

Now that CPMS is already Best Buddies chapter in Cebu, Bathan said that plans are afoot to trailblaze the various programs to spread the word about inclusion in education and living, and how this can be done through the collaborative partnerships with the other schools in Cebu.

Best Buddies’ vision is clear, Aventajado said adding that inclusion isn’t just a goal; it’s a journey that requires the collective effort of everyone in the community. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

Medical, healthcare services in a mall?

CEBU CITY— Chong Hua Hospitals redefined medical and healthcare services in Cebu and the neighboring Visayas and Mindanao regions with the launching and opening of the Chong Hua Medical Mall, a 12-storey facility along J. Llorente Street, Capitol Site, Cebu City that serves as a one-stop destination, offering a wide range of clinical specialties, including radiology, cardiology, laboratory, and pharmacy services alongside over 300 doctors available from Monday to Saturday.

“Our goal is to provide accessible, convenient and topnotch health care for the people of Cebu, and neighboring islands all under one roof.  We mark the beginning of a new chapter in health care, one that emphasizes convenience, quality care and the wellbeing of every patient,” said Benito Gaisano, Chairman, Association Benevola De Cebu Inc. (ABDCI), in his opening message at the grand launch event on October 1.

Gaisano said that Chong Hua Medical Mall represents a bold new vision for healthcare in the region. It is more than just a facility, it is a gift to the community, a place where they bring together quality medical services, modern technology and commercial service in a patient-centered approach.

According to Dr. Helen Po, President and CEO, Chong Hua Medical Mall that the facility integrates advanced medical services with unmatched convenience, comfort, and an exceptional patient experience. It brings together multiple healthcare services, specialty clinics, diagnostics and patient-focused amenities into one seamless environment. 

“Our strategic direction is clear, we aim to make healthcare more accessible and efficient by integrating these services into a single, easy and navigable space. Patients can consult their doctors, complete diagnostics tests, and receive treatment all in one visit,” she added.

What sets Chong Hua Medical Mall apart from other hospitals in Cebu

Dr. Joanne Cosin, Chief Operating Officer, Chong Hua Medical Mall bared that what sets the facility apart from other hospitals in Cebu, is its focus on convenience and preventive care. It's not just for those who are sick; it also caters to individuals seeking health monitoring and regular check-ups. Patients can easily walk in, even without a prior doctor's appointment, as medical experts are available to attend to their needs.

Cosin added that the medical mall allows those traveling from provinces or nearby islands to complete their healthcare journey within a day-consult with doctors, undergo tests with quick result releases, receive prescriptions, and return home the same day.

This is to be a seamless journey operational excellence at its best for being the best practices of the hospital towards the medical mall where everything from preventive, primaries, specialty, happens in one roof all in one day, hopefully, from diagnostics to consultations, to pharmacy to breakfast, lunch and dinner. “We hope for the patient to have a very seamless experience,” Cosin said.

Chong Hua Medical Mall embodies the trusted Chong Hua plan of medical care, known for its commitment for quality, compassionate service and a tradition of excellence that has been the cornerstone of healthcare in the region.

It is a symbol of Cong Hua’s commitment to raise healthcare standards.  Patients can seamlessly navigate between consultations, diagnostics, and commercial establishments like food outlets, bank, nail salon, and convenience store-all within the same facility.

The "Meds-to-Go" service enhances convenience by enabling patients to call or message the pharmacy, pre-order medications, pay online, and pick them up without delay. Digital integration also plays a significant role, with diagnostic results accessible online.

Patient records are also connected between Chong Hua Medical Mall and Chong Hua Hospitals, supporting advanced treatments, emergency services, and hospital admissions when needed.

Part of a broader healthcare ecosystem linked with Chong Hua Hospitals, the medical mall offers patients smooth inter-referrals among specialists, enhancing multidisciplinary care for complex health needs. This integration ensures comprehensive, coordinated, and efficient healthcare delivery.

Looking ahead

Dr. Cesar Quiza, Medical Director bared that Chong Hua Medical Mall soon to offer an ambulatory surgical clinic for day surgeries and a pharmacy drive-thru, adding another layer of service and convenience for patients.  Currently, the medical mall features a laboratory drive-thru, allowing patients to undergo laboratory tests without leaving their vehicles, further enhancing accessibility and ease of access.

Quiza said that Chong Hua Medical Mall emphasizes comfort and safety with spacious, air-conditioned waiting areas, and a mechanical air ventilation system that delivers clean air.   Accessibility is enhanced by multi-level parking that extends up to the 8th floor, complete with easy floor access, escalators up to the 4th floor, and patient assistants who guide and provide support to every visitor.

Guided by the vision to be the leading provider of quality healthcare in the Visayas and Mindanao, Chong Hua Medical Mall embodies the mission to deliver a patient-centered approach that emphasizes comfort and convenience. (Photos: MBCNewman & Chong Hua Medical Mall)

 

Volunteerism contributes P44.5B in PH’s GDP

CEBU CITY – Volunteerism contributes about 44.5B in the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), said the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)-Region VII citing a study in 2009 from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

NEDA-7 and the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) mounted the 1^st Central Visayas Volunteerism Exhibit 2024 on September 27 at the Seaview Wing Atrium, SM Seaside, Cebu City with more than 200 participants from some of the local government units (LGUs) here, regional line agencies (RLAs), State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), civil society organizations, private sector and higher educational institutions.

“The opportunity to be able to volunteer is actually one of the aspirations of the Filipinos as captured in our long-term collective vision for ourselves and for our country - the Ambisyon Natin 2040, of a matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na buhay” NEDA-7 regional director Jennifer Bretana talked about the value of volunteerism in her opening message during the event.

Bretana mentioned another study from the UN Volunteers in 2019 that governments recognize volunteers for its contribution as critical partners, whose inputs are essential development priorities; as innovators who bring new perspectives and ideas to the table and of their voluntary actions that strengthen the ability to reach the farthest behind first.

PNVSCA executive director, Donald James Gawe, in his keynote address told his audience that Volunteerism brings out the best in humanity by allowing people to offer their time, skills, and resources in the service of others. “Through volunteerism, we nurture the values of compassion, empathy, and civic duty-values that are essential in building a more resilient and inclusive society,” he said.

Gawe commended NEDA-7 for putting up the very first volunteerism exhibit in Central Visayas and also the first in the country.  He said that volunteerism is not just about the act of giving. It is about the sense of ownership, responsibility, and solidarity that binds people together as citizens.

“The path to a better world cannot be built on passive hope alone. Real change requires collective action, and volunteers are at the forefront of this effort. Their work brings hope to life and transforms it into tangible, positive change within communities. Volunteers are the hands that lift, the hearts that care, and the voices that inspire action,” Gawe said.

About 15 partner government agencies, schools and universities, volunteers’ organizations and students were on hand to exhibit their respective products, services and programs for volunteerism where the students and other and walk-in participants inquired on the process of volunteerism.

At the Couch Conversation, foreign and local volunteers from Cebu, Bohol, NegOr and Siquijor shared their experiences and challenges they encounter while doing volunteer work.  They spoke of a common bond and the sense of bayanihan, hospitality and grateful attitude among Filipinos.  

“As we look towards the future, it is imperative that we continue to inspire more citizens and organizations to take an active role in their communities. Volunteerism, in essence, is the very embodiment of bayanihan--the collective effort of Filipinos to help one another in times of need. This spirit of unity and cooperation is what will drive us forward in our pursuit of sustainable development and progress,” Gawe concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

China’s progress boosts confidence of developing countries to modernization

CEBU CITY – The People’s Republic of China, for the past 75 years has found the right path for modernization with its fast-economic development and long-term social stability that boosts the confidence of developing countries to push for modernization.

Consul General Zhang Zhen of the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Cebu said in her keynote message at the celebration of the 75^th Founding Anniversary of the People’s Republic of China on September 27 at the Grand Ballroom, Marcopolo Plaza Hotel Cebu, with more than 500 guests composed of local government officials, businessmen and different chambers of commerce in Central Visayas and the media in attendance.

“Chinese modernization benefits the world. China is a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development and a champion of international order. China took the lead in proposing and acting on the five principles of peaceful coexistence,” Consul Zhen said.

 China’s modernization is peaceful and it has never waged war but goes all out to help fellow developing countries, she went on that her country is the largest contributor to UN peacekeepers; the largest contributor to the core budget of the Convention on Biological Diversity and its Protocols; the largest contributor to world economic growth; the main trading partner of nearly 200 economies in the world.

Consul Zhen describes China’s modernization as people-centered, green being in harmony with humanity and nature, peaceful as it is the builder of world peace, contributes to global development and champion of international order.

China’s strong economy reflects confidence of the int’l community

According to Consul Zhen, China’s GDP, in the first half of 2024 grew by five percent with the total volume of imports and exports of goods increased by 6.1 percent and the number of new foreign-funded enterprises increased by 14.2 percent year-on-year (YOY).

The Consul bared that in July this year, the Communist Party of China (CPC), in its 3^rd plenary session of its 2oth Central Committee inked more than 300 reform tasks and came up with a new blueprint for more comprehensive reforms to advance the country’s modernization.

“A more open China with high-quality development will bring more development opportunities to all countries in the world, especially neighboring countries. China adheres to the policy of developing friendship and partnership with neighbors, and acts on the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness,” Zhen said in an interview with this writer.

PH-China celebrates nearly 50 years of friendship

In 2025 marks the 50^th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines maintaining a forward-looking trend in its bilateral relations that continue to yield many fruits in various fields of cooperation.

History showed that as long both countries honor the original commitment to diplomatic ties, properly manage differences, the road of cooperation will be even broader, benefitting both Chinese and Filipinos.

Cebu City acting mayor, Raymund Alvin Garcia congratulated the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Cebu for its 75^th Founding Anniversary and said that it was a momentous occasion that represents not only the resilience and progress of a great nation but also the enduring friendship that binds both Chinese and Filipinos together.

“The history between Cebu and the Chinese people runs very deeply stretching back to centuries before the arrival of the Spaniards.  Our ancestors traded shared knowledge and forged bonds that laid the foundation for a relationship that transcends borders and cultures,” Garcia said.

He added that as both nations stand together in commemoration of China’s remarkable journey this is also reflection on the deep historical ties that link both communities. It is through these connections that both nations see the potentials or even a stronger collaboration in the future, one rooted to mutual respect, shared aspirations and a vision of prosperity for both our nations.

May this milestone serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength that unity brings. Let’s continue to work together not only as a nation but also as communities Cebu City and China towards deeper understanding, meaningful partnership and a future where both peoples triumph side by side, Garcia added.

Consul Zhen, on the other hand cited that Chinese and the Visayans or ‘Bisaya’ have the same values.  They are kind, open, diligent, intelligent and peace-loving people. Peace and development are their common aspirations. Chinese and Visayans/Bisaya have millennium-old exchanges and profound historical connections, people enjoy and carry on these legacies.

Many Chinese and Filipino-Chinese have been well integrated with the host country and made tremendous contributions to the local economy and society.  PH-China good-neighborliness, enduring friendship and win-win cooperation could bring tangible benefits to both sides.  

“I am looking forward that you all would continue to care and support China-Philippines relations. Let’s make joint efforts to steer clear of disruption, to strengthen communication and mutual understanding, to advance bilateral relations for common prosperity and lasting peace, for a better homeland in Asia!” Consul Zhen concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman)

TCIS pilots “Build It Right” info caravan in 4 barangays in Mandaue City

MANDAUE CITY -- Habitat for Humanity-Terwilliger Center for Innovations in Shelter (TCIS) initiated the Solid Home Barangay Caravan Workshop early this year under its “Build It Right” project selecting 50 low-income households from Barangays Pakna-an, Casuntingan, Canduman and Cabancalan in Mandaue City in partnerships with the local Housing and Urban Development Office (HUDO), PAGIBIG, Savers Depot, United Architect of the Philippines (UAP), private sector companies and other organizations.

“We started with Mandaue City because out of all the local government units (LGUs) in Cebu, Mandaue City is the most supportive with the “Solid Home-Build It Right” project with its HUDO as our partner,” Reggie Marie Barrientos, Specialist of Habitat for Humanity's Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter (TCIS) said in a press interview during the Solid Home Barangay Caravan Workshop on September 21 in Cabancalan, Mandaue City.

TCIS is testing this project in Mandaue and if it works here, hopefully it can further be expanded to the rest of Cebu and the entire Philippines. The target of the program are those homeowners that need more guidance as to access in information, building materials, products and services to build their home properly, Barrientos bared.

According to Christine Villanueva, project lead for Project Solid Home of Brand Bucket that there is this nagging challenge on how to educate and bring closer quality construction materials particularly for wall and foundation for the low-income household.

“Because they’re usually the ones who are not aware of what they should be buying or what they should use for them to have a solid home.   With that challenge in mind, we linked up with HUDO-Mandaue City to lead the caravan for the four barangays in Mandaue in partnership with PAGIBIG, Savers Depo, Arch. Hendrix Lato.  They have joined us in the four caravans and they each have roles to fulfil in the “Build It Right” education campaign,” Villanueva shared.

A glimpse at the Barangay Cabancalan Solid Home info caravan

Architect Hendrix Lato of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) led the “Build It Right” guides to better foundation and structural works, fire safety, moist and waterproofing, pest and infestation, light and ventilation for a solid home.

Architect Lato is the technical expert during every barangay caravan workshop translating the ‘Build It Right” guidelines into easy to explain tips that anyone can understand on how to build it right and how to build a solid home in his handwritten illustrations.

Ma. Shielo Monalem of Savers Home Depot is the project’s partner store with other partner stores at the barangays that are also part of the solid home program.  Their role basically is to educate the store clerks on how they can promote quality construction materials.

Barrientos said that Savers Home Depot allowed TCIS also to put merchandising materials in their stores which means that they are a solid home project partner.  Meanwhile, Ricardo Pareja of PAGIBIG discussed about the government’s ‘Pabahay’ program and its low housing financing through the PAGIBIG.

The Solid Home Barangay Caravan team always facilitated the event into a fun, easy interactive campaign with games, raffles and Q & A with prizes for every correct answer, to give tips on how to build and or renovate homes with proper advice and guidance at the most fun way.

According to Barrientos that when TCIS did the study in Mandaue City, they realized that at least 20-30 percent of low-income homes are substandard and walls and for the whole of Cebu, at least 30 percent of homes are without foundations and are even in need of retrofits.

The “Build It Right” guides campaign came in handy for a particular market segment, the “DIYers” those that build their homes bit by bit. “Because they’re doing it incrementally, they’re not doing it right,” Barrientos noted.

Villanueva also bared that the “Build It Right” campaign starts with the barangay info caravan, workshops to educate the homeowners first, then the next step is with the hardware stores; third step are the pandays, the masons or the carpenters. The program provides these groups with technical workshop and a little bit of incentive program as well to keep the engagement going.

“We hope that the caravans and the workshops we’ve been doing, we get to impart knowledge some of them common and some are rather technical, but we go after the objective which is to help low income households be aware and apply what we are teaching them to build a solid home,” Villanueva said. (Photos: MBCNewman)