PBP, a party list organization bats for rural/barangay development

CEBU CITY – The Partido sa Bagong Pilipino (PBP), a party list organization bats for rural/barangay development through strategic legislation that prioritizes water resource management, affordable and accessible healthcare, Power and solar lights initiatives and roads/access to development.

Former Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Commissioner Atty. Goyo Larrazabal, and Beaver Lopez, Vice President and Board of Adviser of Rockwell Land are the standard bearers of the PBP Party List organization who presented their grassroots advocacy to media, content creators and bloggers in a greet and meet cum press conference on March 31 at Bayfront Hotel, NRA, Cebu City.

“Our legislative agenda is a vision for community impact and collaboration to make a positive difference in the lives of the people in the rural communities with the goal of improving the lives of Filipinos by 2028.  The success of the PBP rural development programs depend on the support and participation of all sectors,” Goyo Larrazabal said.

With the party slogan “Barangay ang Panalo,” PBP underscored its commitment to uplifting marginalized communities, particularly in coastal and rural communities, Larrazabal bared that clean water, healthcare, roads and access, including internet connectivity and electricity are basic needs but are wanting in the rural and barangay areas.

"I think the areas that we've been able to visit and talk to, relationships have already been established. That's why when we tell them that we're here to help, when we win, you win, who wins, the community wins. Because it's not just the LGUs, but the party list that came here will also help. I think that's a welcome to any of the LGUs and for us to be able to come in,” Beaver Lopez stated.

PBP advocacy and legislative agenda 

On the election process ad voters’ education:  According to Larrazabal that working with the Commission elections is important and stresses that public officials and candidates must ask questions about the details of the elections to clarify misconception about the machine not being connected to the web before the printing of the first few copies of Election Result Summaries (ERS).

Voters’ education road shows are equally important and the need for continuous questioning and verification of information provided by the Commission to ensure accuracy and readiness for election day.

“May I remind everyone that election day is May 12 and that final testing period takes place on May 2 to May 7.   People must be vigilant during the election day and the final testing period; for the deployment of electric paraphernalia and the printing of them.  There is a need for continuous questioning and verification of information to ensure transparency and readiness for the election,” Larrazabal stated.

Clean Water: A Fundamental Right: Addressing the persistent water crisis, PBP is pushing for the establishment of a Department of Water Resources to oversee policy implementation and institutional reforms. The party also proposes legislative measures to encourage barangay-level rainwater harvesting and stronger partnerships with NGOs to provide potable water.

Healthcare: Accessible and Preventive Solutions: Recognizing the lack of medical professionals in many barangays, PBP is pushing for the enhancement of the Department of Health’s “Doctors to the Barrio” program. Proposed legislation includes the expansion of DOH’s medical scholarship programs and ensuring at least one doctor per town, with a focus on highland and coastal areas. “We propose a bill to digitize the healthcare system in the Philippines in support of the universal healthcare," Larrazabal explained.

Roads and Access: Strengthening Barangay Connectivity: PBP aims to enhance infrastructure by ensuring better road networks to connect barangays, facilitating easier access to goods, services, and opportunities. Digital connectivity is also a priority to bridge the gap in technological access, to usher in and help assist the LGUs to strengthen the development of the barangays.

Electricity: Sustainable and Renewable Energy Solutions: PBP advocates for a mix of traditional and renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to ensure stable power supply in barangays. The Power, Stable Power, and Solar Lights program will provide short-term solutions, including solar lights for barangay halls and other public spaces, while working on long-term renewable energy adoption.

PBP party list seeks to improve on the delivery of basic government services to the barangay communities as these are the people who occupy the bulk of the Filipino society, those who need more government support and commitment to live better lives. (Photos: MBCNewman)

Lite Ferries inaugurates new boat for Dumaguete-Dipolog/Dapitan-Oslob, Cebu route

Lite Ferries inaugurates new boat for Dumaguete-Dipolog/Dapitan-Oslob, Cebu route

DIPOLOG CITY— Lite Shipping Corporation, operating under the brand name Lite Ferries, “Ang Barkong Bol-anon” launched and inaugurated its newly acquired vessel, the MV Lite Ferry 12 on April 5 at the Dipolog City Port for the pioneering status in the routes of Oslob, Cebu – Dumaguete City – Dapitan/Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte and vice versa. 

“Our family considers this vessel a blessing from God and a gift from the Almighty.  It is seen as a means to connect islands,” Lite Shipping Corporation owner, Lucio Lim said in his opening message at the launching event.

Lim acknowledged the Uy family for their long-term efforts in developing the Dipolog City Port project, which dates back to the father of the current mayor.   The vessel, deployed despite COVID-19 challenges, required significant logistical adjustments.  The vessel, with a shallow draft, needed additional modifications to fit the port’s infrastructure. 

“Currently, it is the only operating vessel between Zamboanga del Norte and other areas, benefiting car and truck drivers. There is hope for introducing a second vessel if the market situation warrants it,” Lim added. 

Lite Shipping Corporation is continually expanding and bringing in World Class brand new ships to its  fleet.  M/V Lite Ferry Twelve was built in China and completed in December 2024. This 72 meter long coast wise Ro-Ro ferry has a depth of 4.50 meters, breadth of 16.80 meters and a GRT of 3,390 tons, Lim bared. 

MV LiTE Ferry Twelve can accommodate 500 passengers in various accommodation and 20 ten-wheeler trucks plus 10 cars. It is classed by RINA of Italy and it has standard and tourist class accommodations with above MARINA standards on passage ways and bed bunks accommodation. 

M/V Lite Ferry Twelve will now serve the route with the following daily ferry service schedules:

 Cebu, Oslo  to Dumaguete City leaves at 10PM daily; Dumaguete City to Dipolog, at 1:00AM on M/WF/Sunday while Dumaguete City to Dapitan leaves at 1:00AM  on T/TH/Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Dipolog City to Dumaguete City leaves at 1:00PM on M/W/F/Sunday; Dapitan to Dumaguete City, at 1:00PM on T/TH/Saturday; and Dumaguete City to Oslob, Cebu leaves at 8:00PM daily. 

Farina Cunanan, regional director, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)-Region 9 celebrates the inauguration of Life Ferry 12, marking a significant milestone in regional connectivity and economic growth. 

“The ferry is seen as a symbol of progress and efficiency, serving the Zamboanga  Peninsula and connecting regions 9, 7, and 10.  The government and private sector collaboration is  crucial for maximizing maritime resources and creating a prosperous future, Cunanan said. 

Cunanan said local governments and officials already express their support and anticipate economic benefits, including increased local income and improved infrastructure. The ferry is also seen as a strategic investment for the region’s economic growth and connectivity with Malaysia, she added. 

Lite Ferries operates one of the youngest fleets in the country, with almost half of the fleet acquired brand new and 25% of the fleet below 20 years old upon acquisition. “This was the result of the company re-fleeting program the past 10 years,” Lim said. 

Lite Ferries operates in 32 destinations in 16 provinces under the brand name, Lite Ferries. It has been bridging the provinces of Sorsogon, Samar, Northern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Siquijor, Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental and Zamboanga del Norte. (Photos: MBCNewman)

Mayoral candidate vows to restore dignity in governance for Cebu City

 CEBU CITY – Mayoral aspirant and standard bearer of Partido Cebuano KBL, Yogi Filemon Ruiz vows to restore dignity in governance with his campaign platform on responsive, effective leadership and strong foundational governance for Cebu City.

“I pledge to bring a leadership style that is genuinely responsive to the needs of Cebuanos. What I will be bringing to the table, a brand of leadership that will be responsive to the needs of the people, a brand of leadership that will be for ability, that will be for competency, that will lead to prosperity,” Ruiz told the media at the kickoff of his campaign on March 28 at a hotel in Cebu City.

Ruiz presented his Framework of Governance—Economic Growth Drivers; Environment of Governance and Social Management.  He said, this is a pioneering approach that sets the stage for a new era in managing the Cebu City Government, a different path, one grounded in foundational governance principles that promise to transform initial pledges into lasting, effective results.

“I join the mayoral race as the fresh face of genuine, grassroots-centered leadership. Backed by a broad coalition of ordinary citizens, sectoral groups, and progressive community leaders, I offer a new beginning for Cebu, one anchored in transparency, inclusion, and safety,” Ruiz added.

Ruiz carries the voice of the unheard championing inclusive governance and creating opportunities for all, especially those marginalized by traditional politics. His leadership embodies a strong, strategic, and compassionate brand of governance designed to uplift every Cebuano, from the mountain barangays to the coastal sitios, his campaign materials read.

Grassroots approach to leadership and his plans for Cebu City

Unlike traditional politicians, Ruiz opted for a grassroots approach, engaging directly with barangays and sitios instead of relying on massive campaign materials.  He takes pride in following election rules and ensuring compliance with regulations regarding campaign materials.

Ruiz believes that listening to the concerns of Cebuanos firsthand allows for a governance approach that truly serves the people.  He envisions himself as a leader driven by empathy, one who understands the struggles of ordinary citizens and is committed to addressing their concerns with genuine care and decisive action.

His plans for Cebu City include key priorities such as addressing traffic congestion through a comprehensive master plan that includes enhanced training for traffic enforcers and the introduction of a monorail system as a more efficient alternative to the outdated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).  He emphasized that the monorail will complement existing jeepney drivers rather than replace them.

On waste management, Ruiz said he plans to standardized garbage trucks with readily available spare parts and enforce a strict "No Segregation, No Collection" policy to benefit both waste disposal efficiency and local farmers.

As a former regional director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA-7), Ruiz is also committed to making Cebu City the safest in the country.  Ruiz pledged to combat the widespread proliferation of illegal drugs in the city, emphasizing a firm yet compassionate approach to law enforcement and rehabilitation. 

“I am determined to restore Cebu City’s reputation as the "Queen City of the South" through improved governance and localized, sustainable development. I describe myself as a strict but fair leader, one who is friendly yet firm, and committed to prioritizing the needs of the people above politics,” Ruiz added.

Ruiz’ vision and campaign theme

Ruiz’s governance plan focuses on solving Cebu’s most pressing concerns, including flood control, waste disposal, traffic management, peace and order, healthcare, livelihood opportunities, and socialized housing.

He underscores the importance of strong foundational governance, highlighting the need to identify and address the root causes of the city's most pressing issues rather than merely treating their symptoms. 

Running under Partido Cebuano KBL, Ruiz is joined by a slate of councilor candidates who share his vision for a progressive and inclusive Cebu City.

For the North District, candidates include Ren Ranche, an award-winning entrepreneur focused on entrepreneurship, livelihood, and local economies; Clarissa Larry Otadoy, a longtime leader of a Cebu City Vendors Association advocating for market and trade development; and Niceforo Iroy, a licensed urban planner aiming to enhance urban planning while integrating tourism-driven economic growth.

In the South District, the councilor candidates are Susan Jaca Berido, a licensed pharmacist focusing on healthcare system development; Omar Kintanar, who aims to ensure quality education and workforce alignment; Bonel Balingit, founder of a Cebu-based auxiliary civilian volunteer organization advocating for peace, order, and disaster preparedness.

Also running for the South District are-- Atty. Renil Oliva, a government lawyer and career executive dedicated to socialized housing and food security programs; Arlene Salahuddin, an expert in inclusive development and minority representation; Vic Buendia, a former barangay captain committed to infrastructure expansion and improvement projects; and Emman Maranga, the youngest aspirant, who will push for youth development programs.

 With a track record of integrity, competence, and dedication, Yogi Filemon Ruiz remains steadfast in his commitment to a better Cebu City. His campaign is built on action, inclusivity, and genuine public service, making him a formidable contender in the 2025 mayoral race.

He urges all candidates to adhere to fair play and election rules, advocating for clean and truthful campaigning.  "Let us be fair. Let us be responsive sa panginahanglan sa katawhan. Fair in the sense nga nana man tay rules and regulations in place. Musunod lang ta," he concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

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)