MCIA inks MOA with Mactan Wharf, Supercat for air-sea connectivity

LAPULAPU CITY – The Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA), Mactan Wharf Corporation and The Supercat Fast Ferry Corporation signed a memorandum of agreement on February 27 at the MCIA VIP Lounge for seamless travel within Central Visayas through the CEB+ initiative of MCIA.

“After launching Cebu Connects-- our air to air connectivity product in June, now we have CEB+, the air to sea connectivity to the islands around Cebu. This is the second pillar of our strategy to be the main and premier gateway for tourism in the Philippines,” Aboitiz Infracapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC) CEO, Athanasios Titonis bared.

Titonis said that this partnership is a big step towards transforming Philippine travel experience.  After the implementation of the first transfer hub Cebu Connects in June last year, the CEB+ is a landmark initiative that captures MCIA’s vision to become the “Main Tourism Transfer Gateway” in the country as it streamlines airport to seaport connectivity to reach key island destinations in Central Visayas.

The passenger journey is designed in a seamless manner by providing passengers with a shuttle service from MCIA to Mactan Wharf. The short 5-minute drive then takes passengers to immediate boarding on the Supercat Ferry towards their destinations.

Aldwin Uy- Deputy Chief Operations Officer of ACAC, Eugene Erik Lapasaran Lim- President of Mactan Wharf and Shane Antony Arante- General Manager of Supercat led the partnership signing and said they are committed to provide travelers with efficient, safe, and convenient connections starting with Cebu to Bohol, and in the future, Siquijor, Camotes, and beyond. (Photos: MCIA/Christine Villanueva)

6 health facilities in CV now offers mental health package benefit with PhilHealth

CEBU CITY – PhilHealth now includes mental health in its package benefits through the PhilHealth's Outpatient Benefits Package for Mental Health under PhilHealth Circular 2023-0018 that can be accessed by members and dependents aged 10 and above at the six health facilities in Central Visayas.

To date, the following facilities are the accredited Outpatient Mental Health Package Providers in Central Visayas--Badian Primary Care Health Facility in Badian, Cebu (General Mental Health Services); Borbon Rural Health Unit in Borbon, Cebu (General Mental Health Services); City of Bogo Health Office in Bogo City, Cebu (General Mental Health Services); Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center in Tagbilaran City, Bohol (both General Mental Health & Specialty Mental Health Services); Medellin Rural Health Unit in Medellin, Cebu (General Mental Health Services) and San Remigio Mental Health Facility in San Remigio, Cebu (General Mental Health Services).

The above health facilities in Central Visayas offer services encompassing initial assessments, follow-up consultations, diagnostic tests, and psychosocial support. It covers conditions such as depression, psychosis, epilepsy, child and adolescent mental and behavioral disorders, dementia, and self-harm or suicide risks, among others.

As such, those requiring specialized care are provided with access to interventions from psychiatrists, neurologists, and psychologists. PhilHealth provides annual coverage of Php 9,000 for general mental health services and Php 16,000 for specialized care.

Members can access these benefits at any accredited facility that provides general mental health services. These facilities include rural health units (RHUs), city or municipal health offices, level 1 and 2 hospitals, Department of Health (DOH) Medicine Access Program-mental health access sites, and standalone mental health clinics.

On the other hand, specialized mental health services can be accessed at accredited Level 2 and 3 hospitals with specialized staff, custodial care facilities, and national specialty centers identified by the Department of Health (DOH).

Beyond the Mental Health package, PhilHealth encourages individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or mental health distress to utilize readily available 24/7 crisis hotlines, including the National Center for Mental Health hotline at 0917-899 8727 or 989-8727, for immediate counseling.

PhilHealth remains committed to strengthening the nation's mental health service infrastructure and ensuring that quality care is accessible to all Filipinos needing them. For more questions on the MH benefit package and other benefits, members can call the following 24/7 touch points: (02) 866-225-88; mobile numbers 0998-857-2957, 0968-865-4670, 0917-1275987 or 0917-1109812.

"We recognize the importance of accessible mental health services for every Filipino. Kaya naman, katuwang din natin ang Kagawaran ng Kalusugan sa patuloy pang pagpapalawig ng ating mga serbisyo para sakalusugang pangkaisipan. We are calling for more providers to participate and make these services within reach of Filipinos with mental health struggles," PhilHealth Acting President and CEO, Dr. Edwin Mercado said.

Alyansa eyes transformative growth for Cebu

CEBU CITY — Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, the Senate slate endorsed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., vows to drive good governance, economic growth, and sustainability in Cebu ahead of the 2025 elections.

“With Cebu as a Visayas powerhouse, Alyansa will help fuel its potential and lead the region’s progress. We will deliver solutions from urban centers to rural communities,” said Navotas City Rep. Toby Tiangco, Alyansa’s campaign manager.

Alyansa is composed of former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Makati City Mayor Abby Binay, Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Senator Pia Cayetano, former Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, Senator Lito Lapid, Senator Imee Marcos, former Senator Manny Pacquiao, former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, Senator Francis “Tol” Tolentino, ACT-CIS Representative and former Social Welfare Secretary Erwin Tulfo, and Deputy Speaker Camille Villar.

Alyansa pledges to close infrastructure gaps, boost economic opportunities, and improve public services while upholding transparency and accountability.

The coalition prioritizes infrastructure upgrades, focusing on transportation, disaster resilience and investment-driven job creation.

Education and healthcare are also top priorities, ensuring schools prepare the youth for the future and medical services remain accessible.

“The Cebu we envision connects communities, grows businesses, and ensures no one is left behind,” Tiangco said. ( Photos: Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas)

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JPark celebrates Women’s Month with "The Brides at Triton Wedding Expo 2025”

LAPULAPU CITY – JPark Island Resort and Waterpark, Mactan celebrates Women’s Month with its biggest event--"The Brides at Triton Wedding Expo 2025” that kicked off with a media briefing presentation and conference on March 3 at the Triton Ballroom with more than 50 media, content creators, Vloggers, bloggers and guests in attendance. 

“The Brides at Triton Wedding Expo 2025, JPark management team chose to hold this year’s event in March 15-16 in time for Women’s Month as our way of celebrating the women in their most memorable milestone of becoming a bride.  We want to celebrate the brides, the grooms, honeymoons, we want to give them an unforgettable wedding,” Antoinette Elmido, JPark Area Director of Sales said, in her opening message at the press conference.

Elmido bared that there are already 74 registered exhibitors of various categories that are involved in the various phases of the wedding process that would showcase their products, designs and services during the 2-day event, with a special participation of an all-women designers to showcase their respective personal bridal/wedding ensemble with this year’s theme, “Embrace You.”

“Embrace You!” “Embrace your love story!” is the perfect theme for brides and grooms to be for this year’s #TheBridesAtTriton #WeddingExpo2025 as it returns with an experience that speaks straight to the heart, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the hotel, Elmido added.

This two-day wedding expo happening on March 15-16, 2025 invites couples to celebrate their individuality in the enchantment of a grand ballroom or in the intimate spell of a beach ceremony

What to expect at The Bride at Triton Wedding Expo 2025

The Brides at Triton Wedding Expo 2025 is key to creating every couple’s dream wedding that begins delicate selection of top-tier wedding vendors, renowned designers, florists, and planners who can bring that wedding vision to life.

 

“Every bride, every groom and every love story are unique.  There are diverse taste of the brides’ choices and their significant challenge and so our job is to find ways to expand and add more features to the annual event to make each wedding unique and memorable.  The focus is to ensure that the guests and couple never forget the wedding, which requires continuous improvement and innovation,” Brian Connelly, GM & VP for Operations, JPark Island Resorts and Waterpark Mactan said in an interview with this writer.

Every love story is unique and so should the wedding be that celebrates it, said Kristine CK Mangapis, director of revenue management, JPark.  The series of inspiring workshops help the couples to embrace themselves, who truly they are as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

Couples get to weave their own magic and curate meaningful connections at the event with an exciting lineup of workshops and exclusive showcases that ensures every aspect of wedding planning, from beauty and fashion to gifts and marriage preparation, tickles the heart, Mangapis shared.

“The Brides at Triton Wedding Expo 2025 is here to create with you, memories that last a lifetime. We believe your journey begins in searching for inspiration and collaborating with the best in the industry as we celebrate love in all its forms,” Dexter Alazas, creative director and representative of the participating designers revealed.

According to Alazas, for brides-to-be who want to glow with confidence, Jessie Glova's masterclass Soft Glam for '7 Do', offers expert tips on achieving a timeless and radiant prenup look.  Floral enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the artistry of blooms with First of April's Petals & Passion workshop, exploring the beauty and emotion behind floral arrangements.

Thoughtful gifting takes center stage with Dazzle Gift Cebu's Curate, Create, & Celebrate, helping guests craft personalized presents that add a heartfelt touch to any occasion.   Fashion lovers will be captivated by Claudia Yeung's Sea Collection by BEZZA a stunning runway presentation featuring a mix of professional models and real brides-to-be, Alazas added.

The grand finale, Timeless Ties: A Celebration of You, will showcase Cebu's top designers, including Valerie Alvez, Marichu Tan, Arcy Gayatin, Pinky Magalona, Jessica Ouano, Yoko Sato, and Rachel Rama, in a breathtaking tribute to love and heritage.

JPark offers an extravaganza of a wedding experience

“To make the experience even more special, Jpark Island Resort is offering exclusive Tides of Love Celebrations tailored for couples ready to say ‘I do’.  The Unforgettable Unions wedding reception package presents discounted rates starting at P1,800 per person, complete with a stunning venue, exquisite dining, and exciting perks,” Jehd Ombos, senior sales manager of JPark shared.

Ombos said that early bookers can even score a free 3-day, 2-night stay at Jpark Alona, Panglao, Bohol.  For those dreaming of a picturesque ceremony, the Verdant Vows wedding ceremony package offers a beautiful beachfront or garden setup at a special promo rate of P40,000.

For couples looking to escape to a romantic paradise, the Love and Luxe honeymoon offer invites newlyweds to indulge in a luxurious stay at Jpark's Pool Villa or Mactan Suite Ocean View, with discounted rates and added freebies.  This includes an intimate seaside dinner, a bottle of wine, and a romantic room setup, Ombos added.

“Join us on March 15-16, 2025 at Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark, Mactan, Cebu, and Embrace You.  For more details and registration, visit our official Facebook page. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSctfZQqIkU7H5IZnrkdWmA6_aNUMTHXX6qhrxk4amFES7S03w/viewform?usp=sharing,” Ombos concluded(Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

Independent Senate aspirant launches APM campaign in Cebu

CEBU CITY -- Independent senatorial aspirant Allen Capuyan launches campaign bid in Cebu province, March 4 with a call-to-action plan of highlighting the “Agenda ng Pilipinas Movement” (APM), a grass-root driven advocacy and issue-based manner of addressing concerns of the people.

“I purposely bring and launch my campaign in Cebu Province because the Cebuano voters hold a unique opportunity to shape the Senate’s future composition with my belief and advocacy on the People’s Agenda First, a platform that challenges traditional politics by prioritizing practical solutions over political alliances.  I Believe that my agenda is worth considering,” Capuyan said in a press conference on March 4 at the MO2 resto bar in Mandaue City with his Cebuano supporters rallying behind him.

Capuyan bared that his vision when elected to the Senate is to push his People’s Agenda First platform-- a government that listens, adapts, and delivers tangible solutions to the public’s most pressing concerns. This is an issue-based approach to governance.

Known for his leadership in national security and indigenous rights, Capuyan aims to translate his experience into policies that directly impact everyday Filipinos.  With Cebu as his starting point, he is rallying support for the Agenda ng Pilipinas Movement (APM)—a grassroots initiative focused on empowering local communities.

4-point reasons Capuyan should be in the Senate

According to Capuyan's campaign team, the aspirant laid out four reasons why Cebuanos must vote for him at the Senate:  A Track Record of Problem-Solving-- Capuyan has built a reputation as a decisive leader. As Assistant General Manager of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), he was instrumental in eliminating the “tanim-bala” extortion scheme which targeted unsuspecting travelers.

Later, as Executive Director of NTF-ELCAC, he spearheaded efforts against insurgent recruitment in rural areas.  Most recently, his tenure as Chairman of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) was marked by initiatives that improved education, livelihood, and land rights for indigenous communities. 

His approach to governance is proactive—identifying systemic failures and implementing practical reforms. Cebu, as a growing economic hub, would benefit from leaders who prioritize efficiency and accountability in public service. 

Standing Firm on Budget Priorities-- When the NCIP’s 2025 budget was cut by ₱400 million, Capuyan did not hesitate to challenge the decision. The reduction directly impacted programs related to education, livelihood, environmental protection, and community security—sectors that affect not only indigenous groups but also many rural communities in Cebu. 

His advocacy highlights a crucial issue: budget allocations must align with the needs of the people, not just bureaucratic preferences. With Cebu’s urban expansion and provincial development plans, Capuyan’s push for strategic funding could mean better infrastructure, stronger community programs, and more sustainable economic opportunities. 

A Call for Grassroots Participation--Capuyan is not just campaigning for votes—he is encouraging the public to engage in the policy-making process. The Agenda ng Pilipinas Movement (APM) is designed to gather insights directly from communities, ensuring that national policies reflect local realities. 

In Cebu, where industries such as tourism, trade, and technology are key economic drivers, this bottom-up approach could shape policies that address transportation challenges, business development, and job creation. His platform signals a shift from traditional politics to a governance model that values public input. 

Leadership Rooted in Action, Not Promises--Capuyan’s campaign does not revolve around rhetoric—it is built on a history of getting things done. Whether dismantling corruption schemes, securing indigenous rights, or protecting national security, his leadership style is results-driven. 

For Cebuano voters, this presents a critical question: Should we elect candidates based on speeches, or on their ability to implement real change? With a rapidly growing population and an economy that serves as a vital link between the Visayas and the rest of the country, Cebu needs senators who will champion policies that sustain growth while protecting local interests. 

“I encourage the people to speak up and voice out their agenda so that aspirants like me can hear and feel their conditions and align with how to serve them better when elected for the upper chamber,” Capuyan added as he wooed every Filipino to vote for him. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

Biz sector inks MOA with ACEBA for circular economy initiative in Cebu, PH

CEBU CITY – The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and the ASEAN Circular Economy Business Alliance (ACEBA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) and conducted an inaugural workshop on February 28 at Waterfront Hotel Cebu to introduce ACEBA, discuss the importance of the circular economy in Southeast Asia and formalize the adoption of the circular economy initiative in Cebu and in the Philippines.

Thomas THOMAS, Co-convener of ACEBA; Chairman of ARAIBA Sdn Bhd and senior expert, SWITCH-Asia, in his opening remarks introduced ACEBA as an initiative of ARAIBA Sdn Bhd, a purpose-driven, not-for-profit business organization that fosters inclusive and responsible business in ASEAN that was launched on July 22, 2024 in Jakarta, Indonesia, with the endorsement of the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Coordinating Committee on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (ACCMSME), the European Union Delegation to ASEAN, and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC).

“ACEBA is working towards building business leadership and guiding action for circular economy adoption by Southeast Asian businesses and positioning it as a regional agenda for responsible and inclusive business promotion and action, supporting evidence-based public and policy dialogue and knowledge sharing on the circular economy and related issues and concerns,” THOMAS shared.

THOMAS bared that the CCCI and ACEBA agree to develop a 3-year collaboration on circular economy initiatives with ACEBA’s role in sustainable waste management and the potential for ASEAN collaboration while the CCCI pushes to engage with its member companies to identify and showcase business cases for circular economy.

Part of the agreement is for CCCI and ASEBA to organize learning activities and provide guidance on circular economy for the business sector in Cebu while the Chamber engages with its members and other government agencies, both local and national for the need of innovative funding and the importance of continuous collaboration.

“There is a need on the global adoption of circular economy principles and the role of government in fostering sustainability.  The economic and technological viability in the circular economy is very important because of the political nature of waste and its regionalization,” says Dr. Rene Van Berkel, Co-convenor, ACEBA;senior expert, SWITCH-Asia PSC, in a huddle with media after the CE information workshop.

Van Berkel noted the lack of a common understanding of the circular economy and the need for capacity building and operational tools for businesses for the cost savings and technical opportunities in the circular economy, citing examples of innovations in India and Indonesia that apply circular economy principles.

Challenges and opportunities in implementing circular economy in PH

There is a need for long-term contracts with local governments for waste treatment facilities which is the critical cost-benefit analysis required for full circularity.   The challenge of monetizing waste, noting that only 5-10 percent of waste can be easily monetized. 

ASEBA’s role in sustainable waste management is an enabler for the circular economy, but not synonymous with it, Van Berkel said and stressed the importance of designing products and services to reduce waste, mentioning the role of local governments in waste collection and the need for consumer responsibility.

According to Regan Rex King, CCCI VP for Cebu Business Mobilization and president of Ecothink Waste Solutions, Inc. that the Cebu Chamber representing 800 members can work closely with local governments and ACEBA for finding innovative funding solutions for startups, the importance of small wins to encourage community and financial institutions and the need to collect cases to identify enablers and impediments for businesses.

King said that there is a greater need for the Cebu Chamber to collaborate and align with government agencies’ circular economy programs like the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the various local government units specifically in the discussion on the potential for ASEAN collaboration on standardizing waste.

Wendel Ganhinhin, CCCI-VP for finance/admin services and managing partner, P&A Grant Thorton mentioned that there is an ongoing discussion on the creation of the national framework for adopting the circular economy in the Philippines and on Article 6.2 in the low carbon economy bill with emphasis on the need for government incentives and standards to support the circular economy.

Gahinhin talked about the lack of maturity of the Filipino economy and the need for a non-regulated approach and the crucial role of the private sector innovation in sustaining the circular economy.  The impact of consumer behavior on waste generation, adding the high turnover rate of clothing items among millennials.

“There is really a need to talk about the cost savings and business opportunities in the circular economy; the importance of sustainability in the EU Green Deal and sustainable procurement and for the momentum to drive the transition to a circular economy,” Ganhinhin said.

Market forces and ASEAN/global participation in circular economy

THOMAS mentions the critical role of governments in promoting sustainability and the compulsory sustainability reporting for listed companies in Southeast Asia and the impact of the Paris Agreement on government commitments. 

“We look at the importance of trailblazers in setting sustainability norms and the crucial role of government in providing data for legislators to participate in the discussions on the myriad concerns in the circular economy adoption and implementation in many countries,” THOMAS said.

THOMAS bared that ASEAN countries are already in the circular economy and ACEBA’s focus on ASEAN and the expansion to all members for the global adoption of circular economy action plans. Various countries have different approaches to circular economy policies and the need for collaboration and learning across different regions.

Aldie Garcia, CCCI-VP for business advocacy and policy mentioned that industry participation in the Philippines in the circular economy is still wanting and the need for documentation of businesses adopting circular economy practices, the challenges of identifying genuine circular economy practices and the importance of businesses doing the right thing for sustainability.

CCCI plans, efforts and next steps for the circular economy

“The MOU with ACEBA for a three-year commitment is the next step in the right direction,” Regan King said.  The Chamber will engage with businesses and suggest innovations especially for business cases and learning activities in the circular economy.

King mentioned the role of the Cebu Chamber in promoting obligatory enterprise practices and promote the learning process especially in the continuity of flagship projects and the importance of sustainability.

The value of the relationship between the Cebu Chamber and ACEBA promotes optimism about the future of the circular economy, highlighting the historical significance of Cebu in the circular economy movement, Aldie Garcia noted.

The CCCI-ACEBA partnership hopes to encourage business leadership and setting inspirational examples on the importance of innovation, with examples of innovative startups in biotechnology and their potential to contribute to the circular economy through new materials and recycling technologies,” Garcia added. (Photos: Minerva BC Newman)