Gov’t leaders, lawmakers convene to shape dev’t direction of Central Visayas

CEBU CITY – The Regional Development Council (RDC)-Central Visayas convened the members of the Joint RDC Executive and Advisory Committees, regional line agencies, local chief executives, and district representatives from across the region, at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City on February 9 for a high-level consultation and technical review of the region’s annual development budget alignment for presentation for the proposed national budget for 2027.

“We gather today not only to review numbers and proposals, but more importantly, to shape the development direction of Central Visayas for FY 2027 and beyond.   This consultation provides a vital platform for aligning our local and regional priorities with the national budget, ensuring that our plans translate into real, tangible outcomes for the people we serve,” Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro said, in her opening message as RDC-7 chair.

This is the first time that the House of Representatives conducted such high-level consultation to align regional projects with the national budget in coordination with the DepDev and RDC-7, which are now working to institutionalize this process.

Governor Baricuatro stressed that the consultation went beyond reviewing figures and proposals, framing it instead as a decisive moment for the region’s long-term direction, underscoring the need to align all local and regional priorities with the national budget so that government planning would produce real and measurable gains for communities.

Regional line agencies presented their respective priority programs, activities, and projects, highlighting both persistent development challenges and emerging opportunities across Central Visayas.  Baricuatro called on the region’s lawmakers to help move these priority investments forward, from proposal to funding and full implementation.

“By speaking with one strong regional voice and rallying behind a clear set of priorities, we strengthen our case for national support,” adding that unity and preparedness would demonstrate Central Visayas’ resolve to pursue development interventions with the greatest impact on people’s lives, Baricuatro stated.

Among those present at the consultative meeting, with Baricuatro as RDC-7 chair, were Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado, RDC Co-Chairperson Melanie Ng, DEPDev Regional Director Jennifer Bretaña, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, Mandue City Mayor Jonkie Ouano, as well as Central Visayas lawmakers, including Cebu City North District Representative Edu Rama, who hosted the event.

According to DEPDev-7 regional director, Jennifer Bretana that the consultation forms part of the RDC’s continuing effort to deepen coordination between regional agencies and national policymakers, reinforcing collaborative planning as a foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth in Central Visayas. (Photos: Cebu Capitol PIO)

Modernizing Cebu’s Carbon Market while preserving its cultural heritage

CEBU CITY –Is it possible to modernize Cebu’s historic Carbon Market, yet preserving its cultural heritage? Timeline is December 2026.

This seems to be the question and thoughts of many Cebuanos including those directly affected from the redevelopment of the Carbon Market in Cebu, a massive project aimed to transform the Carbon Market into a world-class marketplace, promoting it as a tourist destination while preserving its cultural heritage.

“The Carbon Redevelopment project is a 50-year joint venture agreement between the Cebu City Government and Megawide Construction Corporation, with CEBU2World (C2W) as the private partner.  We are on schedule for completion of the Carbon Market Main Building by December 2026,” said Louie Ferrer, president, CEBU2World, in an exclusive media briefing   on February 6 at the Puso Village Café.

Ferrer said that guiding principle of the Carbon Market Redevelopment is to ensure that no vendor is left behind.  C2W continues to work closely with the Cebu City Government, particularly through the Office of the City Markets, which oversees vendor matters, listings, and market operations.

All vendor-related processes are undertaken jointly with the City and the project aims to provide vendors with safer, cleaner, and more dignified working conditions, while maintaining market rates consistent with the 2017 Market Code, a city ordinance enacted by the City Council. 

“Rental fees for vendors will remain at P8.50 per square meter until 2028, based on the 2017 Market Code, and all registered regular and ambulant vendors will be accommodated in the new facility.  The project is a joint venture, which means C2W-Megawide serves as the development partner responsible for construction and certain operational components, while Cebu City retains ownership, regulatory authority, and policy oversight,” Ferrer added.

Key features of the modern Carbon Market include a multi-level, mixed-use development with various sections, including food and beverage selections, handicrafts, and other special finds showcasing Cebu's products.  The project includes a transportation hub, a water taxi connecting to Mactan-Cebu International Airport, and a parking facility and also features a waterfront activity plaza, a 24/7 Puso Village, and the Sto. Niño Chapel and Park, Ferrer shared.

CEBU2World Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager, Jynx Chanjueco presented the progress of the Carbon Market redevelopment project at the media briefing and with vendors in its past and recent consultations, showcasing proposed layouts and facilities using virtual reality (VR) technology.

Chanjueco bared that construction is progressing steadily through the use of precast technology, a modern building method that enables faster, more efficient, and more controlled construction compared to traditional approaches.  This significantly shortens timelines while ensuring consistency, durability, and safety, critical requirements for a major public infrastructure project such as Carbon Market.

He said that the design is rooted in Cebu’s Identity with the architectural design of the Carbon Redevelopment has been carefully developed to reflect Cebuano heritage and identity. Key design elements include: Black accents, referencing carbon or coal, in recognition of the market’s historic roots; and Terracotta tones and façade accents, inspired by materials commonly found in Bahay na Bato and other heritage structures.

“These elements ensure that modernization is not at the expense of character, but instead remains grounded in local history and context,” Chanjueco said.

Controversies, concerns and challenges

Ferrer acknowledged that any project of this caliber always has controversies and challenges in implementation.  For one, some vendors and groups have expressed concerns about the project's impact on their livelihoods and the potential for privatization, while some vendors oppose the project, citing potential privatization and increased fees.

“We have addressed these with series of consultations with the registered, ambulant and all types of vendors at the market and explained to them the project through briefings and detailed presentations and that all vendor concerns are being addressed,” Ferrer told the media.

He said that C2W is committed to relocating vendors to safer, cleaner, and more dignified working conditions.  Construction is ongoing, with some vendors already relocated to interim facilities to date.

The other issue is the legal challenge posed by Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña who has petitioned the Supreme Court to halt the project, citing alleged financial losses and lack of transparency, which is still pending at the Supreme Court as of this writing.

However, Ferrer is very optimistic and remains committed to the project, citing transparency and lawful agreements.  He cited Mayor Nestor Archival’s stance on the project, saying that his administration is pushing forward with the Carbon Market redevelopment project, despite ongoing controversies and legal challenges.

“My administration is focused on delivering development projects, including the Carbon Market redevelopment, while addressing vendor concerns and navigating legal challenges,” Archival was quoted in one of his press conferences at City Hall.  He said that he’s acting in the best interest of the city and its people, not just vendors and the project will modernize the market and improve vendor conditions, Archival emphasized. (Photos: C2W/MBCNewman/Google Images)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Baricuatro faces death threat, amid suspension of a local mayor

CEBU CITY—Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro, in her Facebook post on February 6 said she is currently facing serious death threats and intelligence reports indicate that a killer from Mindanao has been paid million to kill her, allegedly born out of the claims circulating from the opposition alleging that she abandoned or failed to assist Minglanilla Mayor Rajiv Enad following his suspension.

“What I am facing today is not only Basyang but also a demolition job. I never wanted to “patol” these FB post against me, but when it concerns one of my top-performing mayors, I feel the need to speak up for transparency and accountability.  I have nothing to do with the suspension of Mayor Rajiv of Minglanilla. I have no motive to do so. Such actions would only disrupt governance,” Baricuatro wrote on her post.

Baricuatro categorically denies the claims, stressing that such narratives are misleading and disregard the boundaries of law, due process, and good governance.  The governor emphasized that she had no involvement whatsoever in the suspension and no motive to instigate such action, noting that Mayor Enad is one of Cebu’s top-performing local chief executives.

The suspension of Mayor Enad is an administrative action carried out by the Office of the Ombudsman, an independent constitutional body, and is governed by existing laws and established procedures.

Mayor Enad, along with other Minglanilla officials from the previous term, was suspended for one-year effective February 2 after being found guilty of oppression and grave abuse of authority in connection with the alleged obstruction of business permits and safety plans that had already been approved by national experts.

As Governor of Cebu, Baricuatro said she is duty-bound to respect the rule of law and the independence of legal and administrative processes. Intervening or exerting influence in an ongoing disciplinary case would be improper and would undermine the principles of accountability and fairness expected of public officials.

“I have nothing to do with the suspension of Mayor Rajiv of Minglanilla. Such actions would only disrupt governance.   Leadership is not about political convenience or selective intervention.  It is about upholding the law, even when it is difficult, and ensuring that due process is respected by all regardless of position or affiliation,” Baricuatro emphasized.

The governor told the media that the allegations being circulated online appear to be part of a broader political tactic aimed at sowing division among mayors and destabilizing local governance in the province.  She urged the public and local officials not to be swayed by what she described as “unfounded whispers” and misinformation spreading on social media.

She called on local chief executives to remain united and not allow rumors to derail governance efforts and reiterated that her administration remains focused on its constitutional mandate-- ensuring stability in local governance, continuity of public services, and strict adherence to legal frameworks.

Portraying respect for due process as abandonment, she said, is a deliberate distortion meant to politicize a legal matter. “The success of the mayors is the success of Cebu,” expressing her commitment to continued cooperation between the Provincial Government and local governments across the province.(Photos: Pam Baricuatro. FB)

Baricuatro answers critics amid question on her political allegiance

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro told her critics that her leadership is beyond labels as they questioned her political allegiance as “not a true Duterte supporter,” saying that her critics view reflects a shallow and overly simplistic view of public service one that reduces leadership to slogans, personalities, and performative loyalty rather than substance, governance, and results.

“In a political climate where noise often outweighs nuance, such accusations miss the larger and more important truth-- Governor Pam’s record speaks louder than any label imposed by critics. She has consistently demonstrated congruence through action, not theatrics,” said a close supporter of Baricuatro.

Support for former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration should not be measured by constant public declarations or blind allegiance, but by alignment with the principles that defined his governance decisiveness, discipline, infrastructure development, public order, and service delivery, Baricuatro’s added.

It can be seen from the very first day of office that Baricuatro prioritized governance that is pragmatic, results-oriented, and responsive to the needs of the people. These are hallmarks of the Duterte era.  Her emphasis on infrastructure, local economic resilience, public safety, and intergovernmental coordination mirrors the administration’s push for strong local executives who govern with independence while supporting national objectives. This is not quiet opposition it is mature governance, her allies argued.

Critics often confuse independence with disloyalty. The Governor ability to work across political lines, engage with various national leaders, and assert the interests of her province should not be misconstrued as ideological betrayal. On the contrary, this reflects the very strength of leadership encouraged under the Duterte administration, that of local officials empowered to act in the best interest of their constituents without being shackled by factional politics, political observers stated.

Moreover, they said that true support is demonstrated during moments that require responsibility rather than rhetoric and Baricuatro has consistently upheld policies and initiatives that advance stability, development, and continuity—values that transcend administrations but were strongly emphasized during Duterte’s term. Her governance is rooted in institution-building, not personality politics.

It is also worth noting that the Duterte administration itself valued competence over compliance. Loyalty was never about constant affirmation; it was about delivering results. Governor Baricuatro’s leadership style—measured, firm, and focused—fits squarely within that framework.

Baricuatro’s supporters said that the question should not be whether Governor Pam fits a narrow definition of political loyalty, but whether she serves her people effectively. By that measure, attempts to discredit her as “not a true supporter” ring hollow.

Leadership is proven by outcomes, not hashtags. The governor said she has chosen the harder path, that of governing with substance, consistency, and integrity. (Photos: Pam Baricuatro FB)

 

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)