DOST-7 to mount the 2025 RSTW on April 23-25 focusing on region’s ‘Blue Economy’

CEBU CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Region 7 is set to mount the 2025 Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week  (RSTW) for Central Visayas on April 23-25 at Ayala Malls Central Bloc and Seda Central Bloc, Cebu City with a variety of events and activities including exhibits, forums, technology showcase, DOST scholars’ Olympiad, STI festival and more, bringing tech-driven solutions to the challenges face by the region’s marine and coastal industries.

“The 2025 RSTW for Central Visayas, hosted by Cebu is set to be the first of its kind in the Philippines this year and it will focus on the blue economy, with the AFOs Foundation's Fish Business Project as a key initiative to improve fisheries income and value chains,” DOST-7 officer-in-charge, Dr. Tristan Abando shared at the RSTW Media Launch on April 3 at a hotel here.

Abando said that the event aims to celebrate and showcase science, technology, and innovation initiatives across the region with the involvement of DOST, PAGASA and the Philippine Science High School, emphasizing the importance of marine safety, technical expertise, and student engagement in science and technology.

Despite its rich marine resources, Central Visayas’ coastal economy faces mounting challenges--declining fish stocks, inefficient supply chains, slow adoption of technology and the growing impact of natural hazards. These threats put coastal livelihoods and marine industries at risk, highlighting the urgent need for science-driven solutions, thus the 2025 RSTW focuses on the Central Visayas’ Blue Economy, Abando added.

What to expect at the RSTW at Ayala Central Bloc, April 23-25

 With the theme "Siyensya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan," this year’s RSTW will spark actionable discussions and introduce technologies that will transform the way people manage and maximize marine resources.

According to Abando, this year’s RSTW will provide a platform for collaboration and action that include the launching of the Central Visayas Blue Economy Agenda—Setting the roadmap for sustainability and resilience in the region’s marine-based industries:

 The FISH Visayas Forum—Presenting sustainable incomes for the fisherfolk and MSMEs not only in Fisheries but also in Food-related Value Chains; Technology Showcase or (Tekno Bida), featuring modern innovations designed to improve coastal resource management, aquaculture, and marine-based enterprises.

The Food Value Chain in the Blue Economy Forum – Addressing inefficiencies in production, logistics, and food preservation while exploring advancements in food technology. The Drone Technology Forum examines the role of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in monitoring, disaster response, and urban planning.

The AI and Automation in the Blue Economy, explores how artificial intelligence can optimize agriculture, fisheries, and marine transport.  The Scholars' Olympiad and Techno Salida, showcases the next generation of innovators through competitions and short films highlighting the impact of STI in practical challenges; and lastly the Youth STI Festival engages the next generation of scientists and innovators.

Expected to attend the 3-day RSTW in Cebu are students, MSMEs, industry leaders, LGUs and NGOs, tech community, student journalists, digital content creators and media. (Photos: MBCNewman)

16 startups in CV join as mentees for the 8th STARTUPISLAND.PH program

CEBU CITY—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 7 in collaboration with The Company and Dual Story, launched the 8^th cohort of the STARTUPISLAND.PH (SIPH) program with 16 startups from Central Visayas selected to undergo mentoring from seasoned mentors of the program from March 25 to May 15, 2025 with 15 business incubation modules.

“We are excited to welcome our Cohort 8 mentees as they embark on this transformative journey. Through this fifteen-module incubation program, they will receive expert guidance, refine their business models, and gain market access—paving the way for their startups to scale successfully,” DTI 7 Regional Director and STARTUPISLAND.PH co-founder Maria Elena Arbon said in her opening message at the launching event via zoom.

Arbon said that the SIPH program started in 2018 with the commitment to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the region and beyond and to build a legacy of supporting tech-driven and impact-focused ventures.

(Some of the mentors)

Among the new mentees are startups from Central Visayas, including Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, as well as founders from Iloilo and Davao, reflecting the program’s growing national reach. Arbon highlighted the program’s role in equipping startups with the tools, mentorship, and network to thrive in today’s competitive landscape

Joy Garingo Dela Serna of The Company Cebu, SIPH’s program partner and assistant coordinator, gave a comprehensive overview of the program, detailing its structure, invited mentors, accepted mentees, and fireside sessions.

SIPH’s comprehensive mentoring program is designed to provide hands-on support through seasoned mentors and industry experts.  Former SIPH mentee Christian Barral, CEO of SKLoud, also reflected on his experience as part of Cohort 7.

“From uncertainty to success—SKLoud’s journey wouldn’t have been possible without the invaluable mentorship of the SIPH Program. Through the guidance, insights, and mentorship we received from SIPH, we went from not knowing where to begin to reaching a milestone of 50 SK signups—a testament to how the right support system can turn dreams into reality,” Barral said.

Since its inception in 2018, STARTUPISLAND.PH has produced 57 graduates who have made remarkable strides in their respective industries.  Notably, OMG! Oh My Grocery PH, a SIPH graduate, recently earned recognition at the 2024 ASEAN-India Startup Festival for its contributions to the digital retail sector, exemplifying the impact and success of the program’s alumni.

(Some of the mentors)

With DTI Secretary Cristina Roque’s five-point priority agenda—focusing on digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence (AI), diversifying operations, funding, franchising, and mentoring, STARTUPISLAND.PH continues to serve as a vital platform for Filipino entrepreneurs to scale and succeed in today’s rapidly evolving business. (Photos: DTI7/Kyle)

BIR Region 13 optimistic to collect its tax goal of over P55B for 2025

CEBU CITY – The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)-Region 13 covering five revenue districts in the provinces of Cebu and Bohol, is very optimistic to reach its tax collection goal of P55,143,578,000.00 for 2025, having exceeded its tax collection goals for two consecutive years 2023 and 2024.

“In 2023, the region collected P42.6B exceeding the P41.9B goal and in 2024, we collected P49.1B, slightly surpassing the P48.82B target. Key strategies include monitoring taxpayer compliance, improving service through digitalization, and maintaining ISO certification,” Antonino Ilagan, regional director, Revenue Region 13 shared at the Kapihan sa PIA, April 2 at Seda Central Bloc, Cebu City.

Ilagan said that the goal for 2025 is set at over P55 billion, with a focus on maintaining and improving performance with all the district revenue units in the region are very much aware of the importance of monitoring compliance and providing excellent service to top taxpayers, who contribute 80% of the collection goal.

Tax compliance monitoring with the use of data-driven methods and are done on a monthly basis, email blasting and the enforcement activities are crucial for maintaining taxpayers’ compliance given the approaching April 15 tax filing deadline, he added.

 "The region focuses on digital transformation, with many e-services available, including online registration and one-time transaction appointments; the importance of monitoring compliance in the use of e-services to ensure their effective utilization; continuous development of employees through training and programs and bold enforcement activities are being planned to prevent smuggling and other illegal activities.  These are all embodied in the BIR’s four pillars of good governance,” Ilagan bared.

2024 Annual Income Tax Filing Updates

The Kapihan discussion further delved on the annual income tax filing updates.  Attorney Frank Joey Bayan revealed that the 2024 annual income tax filing will be electronic, with various payment options and electronic submission of attachments.

“The region is gearing towards full digitalization by 2028, with electronic filing systems available on the BIR website. Different modes of filing are now available, including all kinds of forms and tax software providers and modes of payment include electronic E-pay gateways, manual payments, and revenue collection agents, with specific limits and options for cash and check payments,” Atty. Bayan shared.

Bayan announced that per BIR Bank Bulletin # 2025-01 and 2025-02, all BIR authorized agent banks (AABs) shall accept out-of-district tax payments from taxpayers; accept tax returns/payments on two Saturdays, April 5 and April 12, 2025 and to extend banking hours up to 5:00pm from April 1 to 15, 2025 to accept tax returns/payments.

Attachments like annual financial statements must be submitted with the income tax returns.  The E-apps facility is available for electronic submission of attachments, with specific reference numbers required.  A message is sent to the enrolled email when attachments are successfully uploaded. “Accurate and timely submission of attachments is crucial to ensure proper processing of tax returns,” Atty. Bayan said.

Director Ilagan, in his parting statements, called on all taxpayers to start filing their tax returns this early to avoid penalties and urged them to visit the BIR district revenue offices for briefing of electronic filing of the annual income tax returns. 

(Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PAGCOR Photography contest 2025 is now open

CEBU CITY – The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) announces the opening of its Photography Contest 2025 with this year’s theme, “Infrastructure for Economic Development” and the contest is open to Filipino nationals only, professionals, amateurs and hobbyists can join.

“Participants must be at least 16 years old as of January 1, 2025.  PAGCOR employees and their relatives up to 2^nd degree of affinity and consanguinity are disqualified to join,” PAGCOR Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, Jing Arambulo told the media, content creators, bloggers and photo enthusiasts at a Photo Conference, March 31 at the Teatro of Waterfront Hotel Cebu.

Each participant can submit a maximum of three entries in a single category or submit one entry in each category as long as the total of entries do not exceed three.  Arambulo said that the system automatically rejects entries after the third entry is submitted by an individual participant.

Participants must register and submit entries through the contest website: www.pagcor.ph/photocon2025 or scan the QR code: Fill out all the needed information and submit all requirements to complete the registration.  Only duly registered participants may submit entries.

Photo requirements, contest categories, criteria for judging & prizes

The photos must be in landscape format and must have been taken between September 17, 2024 and July 31, 2025 only.  Entries in the Conventional Category must have at least 3872 pixels on the horizontal side.

Mobile and Drone Category entries must have at least 3072 pixels on the horizontal dside with at least 330 ppi resolution.  The photos must contain metadata for technical validation and entries that do not conform to the technical specifications are automatically disqualified.

This year’s Photography Contest has three categories: Conventional covers entries taken using digital cameras as single lens reflex (SLR), compact, point and shoot, bridge, mirrorless, frameless and rugged.

Mobile covers entries taken using mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, action cameras, 360 cameras and the like.  The Drone category covers entries taken using drone cameras and drone-mounted cameras.

Entries are judged according to the theme, composition, creativity and originality and image quality.  Prizes are as follow: P100,000 each for eight grand winners under the Conventional Category; P50,000 each for eight grand winners per category.

(Winners of the previous PAGCOR Photography Contests)

The theme, “Infrastructure for Economic Development” covers major infrastructure projects like highways, roads, bridges, air and seaports, water supply, flood control, irrigation, power plants, green energy infrastructure and internet connectivity, among others, that are key to Philippine economic growth. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

BisayaFlix, streaming platform showcasing Bisaya-language films, cultural content

CEBU CITY – BisayaFlix, an online streaming platform dedicated to Bisaya-language films, TV shows, and other cultural content launched its Mobile App, BisayaFlix.com on March 30 at SM Seaside City Cebu and now downloadable at Apple Store and Google Play for a subscription of P99 per month or P999/year.

“We are trying to create a platform to give Bisaya fillm production a place for all Bisaya movies to showcase.  BisayaFlix is an online streaming platform dedicated to Bisaya-language films, TV shows, and other cultural content.  Its primary purpose is to promote the Bisaya language and culture, offering a space for Bisaya speakers and those interested in the region's culture to access high-quality entertainment in their native language,” BisayaFlix founder and CEO, Elcid Camacho said in a text interview with this writer.

Camacho, a native of Bohol was inspired to create the BisayasFlix mobile app with the greatest desires to promote and preserve Bisaya language and culture, as well as to provide a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their talents to a wider audience.

Camacho's goal was to fill the gap in the entertainment market for Bisaya-language content. BisayaFlix celebrates Bisaya culture, language, and creativity through diverse media like films, series, music, and more, promoting the Bisaya identity and showcasing regional talent.

“BisayaFlix focuses on creating and curating content that reflects the culture and lifestyle of the Visayan and Mindanao regions of the Philippines. Join us in celebrating diversity, creativity, and the unique stories that define us!” He urged everyone to download and subscribe to the App.

BisayaFlix is available on multiple platforms, including its official website and mobile applications for both iOS and Android devices. It also has a strong presence on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, where users can access content and updates.

BisayaFlix caters and support local talent and film makers in the Visayas region

Sean Red Fernan COO of BisayaFlix shared that BisayaFlix caters to its audience by providing a platform for content in the Bisaya language, “something that has historically been underrepresented in mainstream media. It also ensures its content resonates with the cultural values, traditions, and humor of the Bisaya-speaking community,” he added.

Additionally, it offers a mix of genres such as drama, comedy, reality TV, and music that appeal to a broad audience. BisayaFlix has been steadily growing its subscriber base, with over 9,000 subscribers on its YouTube channel as of February 2025.

“The platform continues to expand its reach through its official mobile app, website, and social media presence, allowing viewers to access content anytime, anywhere. BisayaFlix has produced a variety of Bisaya-language content, including original TV series like Atong Storya, films such as Sugdan na Ang Sakit, and reality shows like Bisaya Icon,” Fernan shared.

The BisayaFlix team is composed of Jad Encarnacion, BisayaFlix Digital; Akiko Solon, chief finance officer; Sean Red Fernan, COO and Elcid Camacho, CEO.  The team’s dream is to actively support local talent by providing a platform for aspiring filmmakers, writers, actors, and crew members from the Visayas and Mindanao regions to showcase their work.

The BisayasFlix Team said, they collaborate with local artists and filmmakers, providing them with opportunities to reach a wider audience while contributing to the growth of the regional film industry. “BisayaFlix plays a crucial role in the preservation and promotion of Bisaya language and culture by producing content in Bisaya and showcasing regional stories,” the Team added.

According to Fernan, BisayaFlix offers a platform where viewers can connect with their heritage and language, helping to keep the Bisaya culture alive and relevant, especially in the age of digital media.

BisayaFlix envisions itself as a key player in diversifying the Philippine entertainment media landscape by offering a unique focus on Bisaya-language content.  It aims to be the leading platform for Bisaya entertainment, empowering local talent, and giving the Bisaya-speaking population a strong presence in the country’s media industry.

“The platform seeks to strengthen the cultural fabric of the Philippines by giving visibility to regional languages and stories,” Fernan said.

By offering content that is deeply rooted in the Bisaya language and culture, BisayaFlix has carved out a significant niche in the Philippine entertainment industry and continues to grow its influence in both local and international markets.(Photos: MBCNewman & Ian Javier)

 

Nearly 1000 participants join the 1st Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Cebu

CEBU CITY – Nearly 1,000 participants composed of teachers, advocates, educators, government officials, schools, parents, and students joined the first “Best Buddies Friendship Walk” on March 29 around Robinsons Galleria in Cebu to build a community that supports, advocates for the rights individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and help them find their place in society.

Children’s Paradise Montessori School (CPMS), in collaboration with Best Buddies Philippines, marked a major step forward for inclusivity by hosting the Friendship Walk in Cebu with the theme, "Steps of Hope, Strides of Friendship" to promote a more inclusive society.

“The goal is to make sure that everybody finds their place and that everybody's included, and that everybody is able to live with dignity.  Hopefully, every year, we hope to have everybody's Philippine friendship walk all over the country, bringing awareness, building community and inspiring people of all ages, abilities, walks of life, to make sure they provide a space for people with intellectual difficulties,” Best Buddies-Philippines Executive Director, Michelle Ressa-Aventajado told this writer at the opening of the event.

Aventajado bared that the Children's Paradise Montessori School (CPMS) in Mandaue City is leading the inclusive efforts in Central Visayas by mounting this first Friendship Walk event, celebrating 20 years of service and dedication to families, children, and students of all abilities.

This signature event emphasizes the commitment to supporting the children, young adults and family members of individuals with disabilities to be included in all facets of society, such as education, employment, and social activities, Aventajado said.

“As we embark on today's Friendship Walk, let's walk with purpose. Let's walk with the belief that every step we take is a step toward a future where everyone—regardless of ability—has a rightful place in our schools, workplaces, and society.  Let's take this energy beyond today. Let's continue the conversations, the collaborations, and the friendships that will turn this movement into a way of life,” CPMS president, Marivic Bathan said, in her opening message at the event.

Bathan said that at the heart of today's event is the belief that learners—ALL learners—deserve not just education, but also opportunities to grow, lead, and contribute to society. When people create inclusive environments, they do more than just provide access, they empower young people with confidence, leadership, and a sense of belonging.

“Together, we are building a future that is more inclusive, more compassionate, and more dynamic. A future where every learner is empowered to thrive.  We give them the tools to become dynamic citizens who can advocate for themselves and for others,” Bathan added.

 

The event concluded with an inspiring word from Mary Sue Cervantes Bathan, a 23-year-old with cerebral palsy and a member of the pioneering batch of Best Buddies Cebu. Having recently passed the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LPT), she shared her journey of overcoming self-doubt in traditional schools, where she often felt like she didn’t belong.  Returning to CPMS as a teacher now helped her embrace inclusivity and develop self-confidence.

“There’s no such thing as disability, only different abilities.  If you take one step for someone with a disability, you inspire them to be proud of who they are. Step up,” Mary Sue said. (Photos: CPMS/CONPC/MBCNewman)