2 PH cities--Dumaguete and Quezon join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network

 UNESCO-- Two more Philippine Cities join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.  Quezon City is now a UNESCO Creative City of Film and Dumaguete City is a UNESCO Creative City of Literature, UNESCO announced on October 31, on its Facebook page and website, UNESCO-Philippine National Commission.

These two cities make history as the first designations in their respective fields in the country. Quezon City also joins Ho Chi Minh City as Southeast Asia's first Creative Cities of Film, and Dumaguete City is among the first Creative Cities of Literature in Southeast Asia alongside Jakarta, the announcement reads.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay designated 58 Creative Cities, which now join the Organization's dedicated Network.  With these designations, the Network now includes 408 cities in more than 100 countries, recognized for their commitment to creative industries and cultural life.

UNESCO Creative Cities demonstrate that culture and creative industries can be concrete drivers of development, UNESCO director general said.  “By welcoming 58 new cities, we are strengthening a Network where creativity supports local initiatives, attracts investment and promotes social cohesion.”

Azoulay bared that this year, a new theme, Architecture, has been added to the seven existing ones: Crafts and Folk Art, Media Arts, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature and Music. These cities stand out for their active commitment to culture and creativity, as well as their innovative approaches to urban planning.

From Kisumu (Kenya) and New Orleans (United States of America), chosen for the vitality of their music industries, to Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) for Design, Matosinhos (Portugal) for Gastronomy, Giza (Egypt) for Film, Cuenca (Ecuador) for Gastronomy, Rovaniemi (Finland) for Architecture, Malang (Indonesia) for Media Arts and Aberystwyth (United Kingdom) for Literature, each city promotes a distinct cultural expertise, rooted in its territory and generating social cohesion and economic dynamism, the UNESCO said.

UNESCO said that the Creative Cities Network was launched by UNESCO in 2004 to support cities that leverage culture and creativity as drivers of development and promoting cultural enrichment. It is at the local level that this dynamic comes to life: by promoting skills, supporting creative professionals and involving residents, cities can create jobs, boost their economies and strengthen social cohesion.

By investing in cultural sectors—from Music to Design, Gastronomy and Media Arts—these cities are developing concrete strategies that meet local needs while contributing to major global goals, such as those outlined in the 2030 Agenda.

The Network encourages cooperation between cities, the sharing of experiences and the pooling of solutions. It allows members to inspire each other and strengthen the economic, social and environmental impact of their cultural policies.

UNESCO Creative Cities will be invited to participate in the Network's 2026 Annual Conference in Essaouira (Morocco), a Creative City for Music since 2019. For more information, visit its website—www.unesco.org. (Photos: UNESCO-Phil. National Commission/Silliman)

VestaHomes puts employee wellness in team building activity

CEBU CITY -- VestaHomes and Ausland Cebu Construction Inc. put employee wellness at the hear of its team building activity held on September 26-28 at Hayat Sky Towers, one of VestaHomes’properties. The event was designed not only to build skills and camaraderie but to reinforce the company’s commitment to employees’ mental, emotional, and professional wellness.

Founder Joe Satar opened the program by grounding the gathering in the company’s core values and principles, underscored unity, accountability, and care for one another, and reminded employees that regular team-building rituals are part of VestaHomes’ commitment to balance and belonging.

He framed these activities as chances to rest, reconnect, and recharge so employees can return to work healthier and more focused with activities include wellness through movement, collaboration, and reflection.

Participants joined an energizing Zumba session to boost morale and promote physical wellbeing. Team-building exercises included trust-building challenges, problem-solving games, and collaborative workshops that emphasized communication and mutual support.

Breakout sessions allowed departments to reflect on work-related priorities and wellbeing strategies, and a recognition segment to honor contributions across the team.

Deeper reflections on values and the company’s past came from Satar in a recent interview, where he expanded on what he wants every employee to live by: “Care for each other, be hardworking, and do not let anybody tell you that you don’t know what you are doing. Do not accept no for an answer. Dig through, and make sure that you’re going to be on top,” emphasizing confidence, mutual support, and resilience as part of employee wellbeing.

Satar also spoke about teamwork and the company’s humble beginnings. “VestaHomes started in a very humble way out of a very simple warehouse back in Sydney 15 years ago. Back home, people were telling me that VestaHomes would not survive after 12 months,” Satar shared.

However, he reflected on the achievements of VestaHomes today, becoming an international firm, and attributed his success to his team.  Vesta is an international company now, and would always create something that nobody else did.

“Our buildings and projects were not built by me. They were built by my team. We love and we always like to work with our team and build a future generation so Vesta can be always on the top,” he added.

He named La Menda Busay as the company’s first completed project and described Hayat Sky Towers as VestaHomes’ brand for short-stay, furnished apartments—a home away from home. “I wanted to have our team in this building so they can feel the hard work they have done to build this building. I wanted to tell our team thank you so much for your hard work. Now it is the time for you to enjoy,” he said.

The wellness message resonated with long-serving staff. Jerome Zerda, a draftsman who has been with the company for 10 years, reflected on how that culture of care has shaped his experience.

Now, VestaHomes is slated to open the following projects in the future: La Menda Nivel Hills at GMA Access Road in Busay, Cebu City; One- and two-bedroom units with amenities including a function hall, gym, scenic views, pools, and a game room. Ground floor opening is slated for March 2026.

La Menda Uptown in Barangay Hipodromo, Cebu City; Planned to feature one of Cebu City’s highest rooftop bars; Vesta Royale Heights in Barangay Kalunasan, Cebu City, and an exclusive subdivision development.

 HIJO by Vesta in Tagum. Envisioned as a 330-hectare city within a city with man-made rivers, villas, a forest reserve, a seven-star hotel, a marina, and commercial and entertainment areas, and a proposed subdivision in Bohol is also planned, offering single-storey one- and two-bedroom homes as well as townhouses.

“We are creating history here. A legacy you cannot buy with money. The Philippines is not a third-world country. It has the potential to rival USA, Dubai, and Sydney,” Satar said and thanked architects, engineers, and employees for their contributions.

The two-day team building was more than a work pause, it was a celebration of unity, growth, and shared purpose. With each new project and milestone, VestaHomes continues to demonstrate that its strength lies not only in delivering quality properties but also in building people, communities, and lasting bonds. (Photos: VestaHomes/Abigail Caruana)

Baricuatro now chairs RDC7, vows to push big-ticket infra

CEBU – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro now chairs the Regional Development Council (RDC-7) seen by many as her edge and added influence to advance major infrastructure projects in Cebu and Bohol.  

Her appointment as RDC7 chair sparked some discussions among the opposition and has drawn debate and skepticism from some quarters within the DDS community saying that she shouldn’t accept the appointment if she is a true DDS supporter.

“One important point: Malacañang is fully aware of my political affiliation. They appointed me anyway. This isn’t about them being partisan; it’s about what’s best for Cebu. If the DDS community sees partisan bias here, I ask you to judge by results and by the outcomes for our people, not by slogans,” Baricuatro wrote in her Facebook post.

She said that with her at the helm of RDC-7, her top priority infrastructure projects will be accelerated and made possible, including the Metro Cebu Expressway and Water security and other road diversion projects.

This is not about politics as usual. It’s about Cebu getting a unified, national-backed plan that speeds up real, tangible benefits for families—jobs, healthcare, roads, schools, and locally driven development, Baricuatro added.

“I am really committed to bring big programs and projects to Cebu,” she said at her regular media briefing on October 29 at the Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT) where she inspected the facility's readiness ahead of the expected influx of passengers for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

Baricuatro points to some key initiatives already in motion such as the feasibility study for the Talisay–Naga Diversion Road that has been approved, a key project she wants completed within her term as governor and she plans to push for it in future RDC meetings.

She said that once this coastal road diversion is completed, this would ease traffic congestion along Cebu’s southern corridor passing through Talisay City, Minglanilla, and the City of Naga, providing motorists with an alternate route to and from southern Cebu.

Among her other prio
rities are water system projects, the Metro Cebu Expressway connecting the City of Naga in the south to Danao City in the north, and additional diversion roads across the province.

Baricuatro also recognized that her new role requires her to look beyond Cebu’s interests and work for the development of the entire Central Visayas region. “As committed, I am to deliver the best programs for Cebu, I will also do my best for the whole Region 7,” she stated.

Baricuatro is set to take her oath in November before the President in Malacañang where she plans to discuss the region’s infrastructure priorities with the chief executive. Her primary goal is to promote the welfare of Cebu and the region.

The RDC is the highest policy-making body in the region and serves as the counterpart of the DEPDev Board at the subnational level. It coordinates and directs economic and social development efforts, ensuring local initiatives align with national development goals. (Photos: DepDev-FB)

 

MCIA: Cebu remains safe and open for tourism

LAPULAPU CITY – “Cebu remains a safe and welcoming destination for travelers,” says   Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) in its official statement released today, October 30,  adding that the recent earthquake’s impact was isolated to the northern part of Cebu, and the province in general continues to operate normally.

While it has seen a slight impact on passenger traffic, primarily among domestic travelers coming from Manila, this appears to be influenced by misleading depiction of the real situation which is unnecessary.  MCIA reassure everyone that the airport and Cebu’s tourism operations remain fully functional.

“We want to assure everyone that Cebu’s airport operations at MCIA remain safe and fully functional. Our facilities have been thoroughly inspected and cleared, and flights continue as scheduled. Passenger safety is always our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining seamless travel for everyone flying to and from Cebu. We invite travelers to continue exploring Cebu with confidence—the island is safe, vibrant, and very much open for tourism,” said Athanasios Titonis, CEO, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation.

Air traffic movement continues as normal, with no disruption to flights or operations. In fact, all international routes we recently announced—including Kuala Lumpur, Macau, Brisbane, and Hanoi—are proceeding as scheduled. Likewise, new domestic routes such as El Nido, Calbayog, and Siquijor are on track for launch, and some are actually operational already since this week, Titonis added.

MCIA hopes that the recent events will not dampen the strong momentum the MCIA and partners collectively built in growing tourism in Cebu.  MCIA encouraged travelers to continue exploring and experiencing the beauty, culture, and hospitality that Cebu is known for. Cebu is safe, open, and ready to welcome you.

“We at Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) continue to oversee the operations of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport at full capacity, with all facilities and runways cleared safe for use after thorough inspections. We immediately implemented our standard safety protocols to ensure that both our passengers and airport personnel are secure and well-assisted,” said Julius Neri., General Manager, MCIAA).

Neri assured the public, the airline partners and visitors that Cebu remains a resilient destination—ready to welcome travelers with confidence. The safety and comfort of everyone remain the highest priority.

The Mactan-Cebu airport management team continues to uphold the high standards of service that make MCIA one of the country’s premier gateways. With coordinated efforts and the renowned warmth of Cebuano hospitality, Cebu stands ready to receive guests from around the world, Neri said. (Photos: MCIA-FB)

 

Cebu powers the next wave of ‘Future-Ready’ industries

CEBU – Cebu’s strategic location, robust infrastructure, and exceptional talent base make it a prime destination for high-value industries that can drive inclusive development across the Visayas and beyond, with a strong foundation for growth, Cebu positioned itself to attract future-ready industries.

 

Cebu’s growing role in shaping the Philippines’ manufacturing and industrial future took center stage at the Cebu Industrial Summit 2025 on October 29 held at the Oakridge Pavilion, hosted by Aboitiz Economic Estates under the theme “Cebu: Powering the Next Wave of Philippine Industry.”

“Cebu’s foundation for the next wave of industrial growth has never been stronger. Its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and exceptional talent base make it a prime destination for high-value, future-ready industries and that Aboitiz Economic Estates is no longer simply a land developer, but a solutions provider, an enabler of enterprise and a partner in nation-building,” said Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, Aboitiz Land President and Aboitiz Economic Estates Head, in his opening message at the Summit.

De Mesa highlighted the transformation of Cebu from a manufacturing hub to a leading advanced production, logistics, and technology center and its strengths in driving industrial growth and to explore collaborative pathways that can position the region at the center of the Philippines’ next industrial era.

De Mesa said that the summit underscored how supportive policies, reliable infrastructure, and a skilled, globally competitive workforce are converging to redefine Cebu’s industrial landscape — strengthened by long-term partnerships between government and private sector enablers like Aboitiz Economic Estates.

“The impact extends beyond economic metrics, shaping communities and creating opportunities for future generations.  The economic estates in Cebu have become platforms for progress, fostering collaboration between industry leaders, local enterprises, and government partners,” he noted.

Cebu governor Pam Baricuatro reaffirmed the province’s commitment to building an ecosystem that empowers investors and communities alike, paving the way for inclusive and sustainable growth.  “Cebu stands at the dawn of another chapter — one where we rise once again to power the next wave of Philippine industry.  Our vision is to build industries that create not only profit but purpose, transforming Cebu into a model of sustainable, inclusive, and human-centered growth.”

PEZA Deputy Director General Maria Veronica Magsino on the other hand, emphasized the continuing reforms under CREATE MORE program which strengthen policy stability and reinforce investor confidence in the country’s economic zones.

Magsino said that PEZA’s ecozones continue to drive national growth, accounting for 54 percent of the country’s exports and over 4,300 operating enterprises nationwide. In Cebu alone, 50 ecozones have generated more than ₱321 billion in investments and over 217,000 jobs — a testament to the province’s resilience and potential as an industrial powerhouse.

Cebu Provincial Administrator Ace Durano spoke about the local government’s focus on enabling infrastructure and business support systems that attract investors and create long-term employment opportunities.

“We see ourselves as partners of industry in removing obstacles and enabling growth, by ddressing key issues such as reclamation and real property tax policies, and by improving provincial infrastructure, we are laying the groundwork for more sustainable and investor-friendly industrial development across Cebu.” Durano said.

The Cebu Industrial Summit 2025 reaffirmed that the province’s strength lies not only in its well-known service and tourism sectors but in its expanding, innovation-driven industrial base, one that continues to create meaningful employment and elevate the Philippines’ role in global manufacturing.  Government, investors and industry working together can unlock the next chapter of Cebu’s industrial story: one powered by innovation, partnership, and shared prosperity, Fernandez de Mesa concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

Baricuatro shares Cebu’s industrial growth vision

CEBU— Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro shared Cebu’s industrial growth vision to a group of stakeholders, various industry players and guests at the Cebu Industrial Summit on October 29 at Oakridge Pavilion, Oakridge Business Center in Mandaue City, hosted by the Aboitiz Economic Estates.

“Cebu today stands on solid ground. We may no longer be the country’s largest provincial economy, but we remain one of its strongest — a hub of trade, manufacturing, creativity, and innovation and more importantly, we are a province united by purpose, ready to transform our growth into something more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient,” said Baricuatro in her keynote message at the Summit.

To make this vision real, Baricuatro bared that Cebu is pursuing a new blueprint for industrial growth, one that combines strong infrastructure, sustainable innovation, and people-centered development.  Guided by its Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan (PDPFP), which is currently being updated, Cebu envisions that by 2035, the Province of Cebu will achieve balanced and inclusive growth.

Baricuatro added that secondary growth centers such as Danao City and Naga City make up the Metro Cebu corridor that will support industrial expansion in the area with adequate land and infrastructure for businesses and workers to back the existing north industrial corridors from Consolacion to Carmen.

Bogo City, San Remegio, Medellin, and Daanbantayan for the Northeast Corridor, with its vast lands, is ideal for development of renewable energy like Acciona’s 140-Megawatt solar farm.  Toledo City, Balamban and Pinamugajan for the West corridor will continue developing medium to heavy industries, integrated with neighboring corridors and the expanding Metro Cebu, the governor shared.

Baricuatro went on that Talisay City to Carcar on the other hand, focus on being an industrial corridor for the Southeast area while Bantayan and Camotes corridors will strengthen poultry and livestock production, and the Southwest corridors will sustain and diversify tourism, showcasing Cebu’s natural beauty, heritage, and culture.

Baricuatro describes Cebu’s blueprint a poly-centric development approach, with industrial corridors spreading progress and opportunities. She outlines her promise to ensure progress from urban centers to rural areas, emphasizing people, transparency, and collaboration as core principles.

Cebu is highlighted as a strong provincial economy, a hub of trade, manufacturing, creativity, and innovation, united by a common purpose. The province will prioritize human development, allocating over 30% of the proposed budget to healthcare.Key infrastructure projects, supported by international partners, include the Metro Cebu sewerage system and the fourth Cebu mountain bridge.

The coastal road will improve access to the upcoming international port in Consolation, and the Metro Cebu expressway will connect the entire island, Baricuatro emphasizes measuring progress by international standards, focusing on human development and environmental stewardship. 

“We stress the importance of partnership among government, the private sector, academia, civil society, and communities. We can not do it alone. The future of Cebu is envisioned as smart, sustainable, and inclusive, requiring collaboration to achieve this vision,” Baricuatro calls for working hand in hand to make Cebu a model of industrial excellence and human-centered growth.

The governor believes Cebu's story is just beginning anew, with the talent, drive, geography, and heart to lead in values and resilience. (Photos: MBCNewman & Capitol PIO FB)

Cebu holds ICT Congress 2025 for LGU digital transformation

CEBU – Cebu Province hosted the “Ato ang Sugbo: Uswag Digital — LGU ICT Congress 2025,” held at the Capitol Social Hall on October 27, with more than 40 local government units (LGUs) in Cebu and some 15 ICT private sector partners joined hands to bring together the brightest minds in technology governance and innovation after nine years of hiatus since the last ICT Congress in 2016.

“I know it’s been years since this has happened, so great job PICTO, DICT and other partners. And as I say, you have my all-out support kay kahiabwo ko ang uban dugay na gahulat nga mabalik ni nga klase nga gathering — one that reminds us how important it is to adapt, to learn, and to grow together,” Governor Pamela Baricuatro said, in her message at the event, commending the ICT community’s effort in reviving the Congress after nearly a decade.

Digital transformation is ultimately about people, not just technology.  Digital transformation isn’t just about gadgets or systems. It’s about people, Baricuatro said, she wants the LGUs to be confident and ready to embrace innovation.  “Technology should not replace compassion. It should amplify it. It should make our jobs easier so we can focus more on what matters most: serving our people,” the governor added.

The 2025 ICT Congress marked a major step forward for the Provincial Government of Cebu in its continuing efforts to strengthen local government digital transformation and inter-LGU collaboration. It is a vital platform for dialogue and partnership toward building a smarter, more connected, and future-ready Cebu, Baricuatro said.

Malcolm Sanchez, Provincial Board Member representing the Lone District of Mandaue, emphasized the importance of innovation-driven leadership in public service and the shared role of LGUs in driving Cebu’s digital agenda.

Paulo Uy, chairman of the Technical Working Group of the Provincial Information and Communications Technology Council (PICTC) presented the key highlights of the Congress that of an Executive Order creating the PICTC, that serves as the policy and coordinating body of the Provincial Government for ICT development and tasked to lead strategic initiatives on data integration, digital governance, and ICT infrastructure across the province.

The one-day Congress featured a series of technology updates and discussions from leading ICT experts and partners that talked about strengthening connectivity and digital infrastructure, the growing importance of data centers and cybersecurity, and the role of artificial intelligence in governance. Various sessions underscored how these technologies can support efficient service delivery, enhance transparency, and promote innovation and competitiveness within LGUs. 

Engr. Royden Rusiana of the DICT, in his closing message, encouraged sustained collaboration between the national and local governments, the private sector, and the community, reminding everyone that “digital transformation is not just about technology, but about people and partnerships.”

With the Provincial ICT Council set to convene soon, Cebu stands ready to lead the region in digital innovation, fostering smarter governance, stronger connectivity, and inclusive progress for every Cebuano. (Photos: Capitol PIO)

 

 

CPA all set for OPLAN BIYAHENG AYOS: UNDAS 2025

CEBU – All systems go for “OPLAN BIYAHENG AYOS: UNDAS 2025, says the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) as it expects a surge of travelers during All Saints and All Souls Day observance on November 1 and 2, with its implementation running from October 30 to November 4, 2025. 

CPA general Manager Francisco Comendador emphasized the agency’s commitment to passenger safety with the deployment of 24/7 security operations throughout the six-day period.  Over 261,000 passengers passed through Cebu Ports during UNDAS 2024. 

For 2025, the CPA anticipates a substantial increase in passenger volume as the holidays fall on a weekend, projecting the numbers to reach 350,000 or more across all ports in Cebu, Comendador said.

CPA, in coordination with the Cebu City government has installed ‘portalets’ outside passenger terminals serving as temporary sanitation facilities.  Explosive and narcotics detection dogs are also deployed in all port terminals to further strengthen security measures.

Inter-agency meeting to ensure implementation of UNDAS 2025

To ensure the safe, smooth and organized travel across the Visayas and Mindanao areas, CPA with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and other partner agencies met today, October 28 to finalize operational plans and implementation of the comprehensive measures to enhance security and streamline port operations.

Comendador bared that the team is monitoring the orderly movement of passengers, address reports of ticket scalping and overpricing of porterage fees within the port facilities. 

“To avoid those kinds of incidents, we strongly encourage passengers to book tickets early and make use of available online booking options offered by shipping companies.  This not only guarantees a legitimate ticket but also helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free boarding process,” he added.

Comendador said that CPA strictly enforces the “No Ticket, No ID, No Entry” policy allowing only passengers with valid tickets and proper identification to enter port premises at least two hours before departure.

For the safety and convenience of all travelers, Comendador informs the public that there are Malasakit Help Desks (MHDs) and first-aid stations in every terminal to assist passengers, respond to emergencies and address queries throughout travel period.

Status of ports in Northern Cebu

Comendador also informs the traveling public on the status of ports in northern Cebu—Maya Port in Daanbantayan and Carmen Port are now fully operational.  Kawit Port in Medellin and Polambato Port in Bogo City are still under limited operations.

Hagnaya Port in San Remigio remains operational, except during pepriods of highest tide, while Port of Sogod and Port of Tabogon are still closed for operations. 

For latest updates and advisories, follow CPA on Facebook.  For issues and concerns, message CPA’s official Facebook page or email publicaffairs@cpa.gov.ph. (Photos: CPA)