PSAC-Tourism recommends policies to raise PH’s standing in global tourism landscape

CEBU CITY – The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC)-Tourism Sector recommended proposals to raise the country’s standing in the global tourism landscape, inspired by the success stories from India, China, Singapore and Thailand, during PSAC’s first meeting with President Marcos, Jr. in Malacanang this year, on January 18.

PSAC-Tourism proposed the temporary 30-day visa-free entry for tourists while streamlining the e-visa process and also suggested exploring third-party service providers to enhance the efficiency of the eVisa system.

The council also proposed accelerating public-private partnerships (PPP) for regional airports to drive international demand. This initiative aims to increase international airport connectivity and capacity for a broader range of international airlines and routes.

"Our recommendations are rooted in a collaborative effort to position the Philippines as a premier global tourism destination. By showcasing our unique culture, cuisines, and natural beauty, we believe we can create a holistic and unforgettable experience for tourists," PSAC lead convener and Aboitiz Group President/CEO Sabin Aboitiz said.

Aboitiz underscored the need for strategic initiatives to make the Philippines a top-tier tourist destination. The council emphasized the importance of attracting tourists and ensuring they have a compelling reason to stay, spend money, and return.

These proposals are a comprehensive campaign to showcase the rich tapestry of native cuisines and advocated for hosting major sporting events to create an immersive and engaging experience for visitors.

Recognizing the importance of the hotel industry, PSAC-Tourism suggested offering enhanced incentives to increase the hotel supply to compete with our neighboring countries. It also highlighted the importance of having a VAT refund scheme for tourists to attract more tourist arrivals and increase tourism receipts.

These proposals were discussed in a meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., with Aboitiz and PSAC Tourism members, Lance Gokongwei of JG Summit Holdings Inc., Lucio Tan III of LT Group, Rene Limcaoco of Hertz Philippines and Lourdes Josephine Gotianun-Yap of Filinvest Development Corporation.

The recommendations are aligned with President Marcos's vision for a consolidated and competitive Philippine tourism system and PSAC remains committed to working hand-in-hand with the government to implement these visionary initiatives and unlock the full potential of Philippine tourism. (Photos: RTVM/PSAC)

 

 

 

 

PH’s top industry-leading companies meet for “Carbon PH”

CEBU CITY – Top industry- leading companies in the Philippines met on January 17 to help address the country’s transitional aspirations for a lower carbon economy through investments in nature-based solutions, capacity building and inputs for policy development.

Dubbed as the Carbon PH initiative, saw the convergence of the game changers’ top companies and other private sector groups to collaborate to attain a more sustainable development, aligning all efforts to address climate change impacts through practical solutions and policy advocacy.

"The private sector plays a crucial role in implementing nature-based solutions. These companies bring forth the necessary resources, expertise, and innovation needed to drive and contribute to sustainable development," Aboitiz Group’s Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer, Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar highly noted the significance of private sector involvement in this program.

The Carbon PH initiative recognizes the private sector's pivotal role in implementing nature-based solutions as companies contribute essential resources, expertise, and innovation. Leading companies help set a powerful precedent for collaboration and the pursuit of a greener economy in the Philippines and beyond, Malvar added.

Malvar pointed out that the Carbon PH initiative signifies a historic milestone for the country as these leading companies join forces, they set a powerful precedent for corporate responsibility, collaboration, and the pursuit of a greener economy, marking a transformative step towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the Philippines.

According to the Carbon PH initiative, the synergies within the private sector are strategic that aims to enhance the scale and effectiveness of nature-based solutions. Based on their extensive experience in implementing sustainability initiatives, these companies are well-positioned to shape an enabling environment with policy recommendations supporting nature-based solutions.

The leading companies that participated in the Carbon PH meeting include Aboitiz Equity Ventures, UnionDigital Bank, Aboitiz Data Innovation, GT Capital Holdings, Foundation for Economic Freedom, Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, SM Investments Corporation, Jollibee Group Foundation, Sibol, SGV, Filinvest Development Utilities, Chroma Hospitality, Lucio Tan Group, JG Summit Holdings, Cebu Pacific, Research Triangle Institute International, and Coca-Cola Foundation. (Photos/PR: Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc./Lloyd Revilla)

 

 

 

 

Capture, enjoy Sinulog vibes at Golden Prince Hotel's “Sinulog Pasalamat Festival”

CEBU CITY –Celebrate the Sinulog fiesta at the comfort of the Golden Prince Hotel and Suites, away from the hassle and bustle of the crowded streets of Cebu from January 19 to 21 with the hotel’s “Sinulog Pasalamat Festival.

Sinulog is an annual festival dedicated to honoring the Santo Niño with a vibrant fusion of culture and religion every 3^rd Sunday of January in Cebu City and Golden Prince Hotel and Suites always welcome its guests with its unique festivities over the weekend to capture the essence of Sinulog in style.

“We want our guests to experience the beautiful chaos of Sinulog fiesta here at the hotel with music, dance, and wide array of culinary delights specifically curated by our chefs for our guests to experience that Sinulog vibes on the streets, yet at the comfort of the hotel premises in harmony with the city-wide revelry,” Benny Que, the hotel’s president said.

The Sinulog Pasalamat Festival kicks off today, January 19 with a heartwarming Thanksgiving ceremony at the hotel lobby with the Sinulog dance and musical performances by the talented Aurum Dance Troupe. Savor the happy hour at the Lanai with the hotel’s Merienda Fiesta and groove to the melodious tunes of an acoustic duo.

Bisperas sa Fiesta on January 20 where guests can explore the unique Sinulog items at Tindahan Ni Angkong, a one-stop-shop for local goods and delectable treats to the rhythms of the live Sinulog performances, Sinulog Espesyal Breakfast Buffet, or enjoy a scrumptious lunch at LeMon Restaurant.

At day’s end, indulge in another round of Merienda Fiesta; culinary delights of Sinugba sa Sugbu and again soak in the ambiance of Lanai Happy Hour and the Acoustic Duo Live Performance and capture all your precious moments at the Tada 360 Camera Booth.

Fiesta Sa Sugbo Festival happens on January 21. This is the grand culmination of the hotel’s Sinulog Fiesta Festival send-off with the Abyan Ensemble presenting an enchanting array of percussion and band performances.

Come for the mouthwatering barbecue treats at Sinugba sa Sugbu and the diverse offerings at the Street Food Festival, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of Drum Beaters and various captivating entertainment at the street-stretch just outside of the hotel.

Golden Prince Hotel and Suites is the ultimate destination to enjoy and capture the essence of the Sinulog festivities. Call (032) 233-8660, 0917-322-8660, or 0918-951-5498 for reservations or connect with the event through its Facebook page for more information and details of the Sinulog Pasalamat Festival. (Photos: Golden Prince Hotel & Suites FB)

 

 

18th Sinulog Fiesta Fair now at SM Seaside, January 17-29

CEBU CTY – The 18^th Sinulog Fiesta fair is now at the Seaview Wing Atrium, SM Seaside City Cebu mounted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Cebu, in collaboration with SM Supermalls, SM Seaside City Cebu and Paglaum South Events Management Services from January 17 to 29, 2024.

The Sinulog Fiesta Fair is an annual exhibition and selling event designed to address the market development needs of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). It offers a prominent commercial venue and shopping platform for these businesses to showcase their creatively crafted, high-quality, and affordable products, spanning both food and non-food items

DTI-7 regional director Ma. Elena Arbon, in her opening remarks said that the MSME exhibitors are beneficiaries of the DTI SME Development programs, including the One Town One Product (OTOP), Kapatid-Mentor Me (KMME), Shared Service Facilities (SSF) and other services.

“The fair showcases the newest product designs and innovative prototypes developed by MSMEs under the OTOP Program, focusing on product development, innovation, marketing, design, packaging, service processes, and market access,” Arbon added.

The fair features the participation of 48 diverse MSMEs from the province of Cebu, exhibitors from Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Negros Oriental, Palawan, and Quezon. This diverse representation contributes to the dynamic and vibrant atmosphere of the trade fair featuring product sectors that include housewares and home decors, fashion accessories, footwear, processed food/processed fruit & nuts (PFN), cacao, coffee, and coconut.

Cebu City Planning Office Department Head Ar. Joseph Michael Espina assured the MSMEs of the continued support from the Cebu City Government particularly emerging creatives, aligning with the vision to transform the city into a creative hub following its UNESCO City of Design designation.

SM Seaside City Mall Manager John Bryan Tan on the other hand, extends the commitment of SM Seaside City Cebu and its supermalls management to actively participate in more trade fairs that bolster local entrepreneurship.

The Sinulog Fiesta Fair 2024 promises to be a showcase of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, providing patrons with an opportunity to discover and support local businesses while immersing themselves in the festive ambiance of the event.

Present during the opening program were DTI7 Regional Director Ma. Elena Arbon, DTI7 Assistant Regional Director Hope Melgar, DTI Cebu Provincial Director Rose Mae Quiñanola, Cebu City Planning Office Department Head Ar. Joseph Michael Espina, and SM Seaside City Mall Manager John Bryan Tan, who led the ribbon-cutting ceremony. (Photos: DTI-7/Kyle)

 

 

 

 

 

 

DTI-Bohol opens its 22nd Negosyo Center in Loay

LOAY, Bohol—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Bohol Province opened its 22^nd Negosyo Center in Loay, Bohol on January 12, conveniently located at the town’s public market adding to the network of Negosyo Centers in the province.

The Negosyo Center Program of DTI is committed to promoting ease of doing business and facilitating access to services for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The Negosyo Center offers services like business registration, product development, access to finance, and business consultancy, among others.

The launch was made possible through the collaboration and partnerships among the Local Government of Loay, the MSMED Council and other key government agencies such as DOST, DILG, DA, and TESDA.

Official signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) highlighted the opening of the Negosyo Center in Loay.  The agreement outlines the objectives of the Negosyo Center and the roles and responsibilities of each program partners.

For more information on DTI programs and services offered through the Negosyo Center-Loay, contact Christine Mae Duca-Duan at christineduandti@gmail.com or call 09662738010. (Photos: DTI-Bohol/DTI-7/Kyle)

NNC7 urges LGUs in Central Visayas to enforce salt iodization law

CEBU CITY – The National Nutrition Council (NNC)-Region VII reiterates its push for the strict enforcement of RA-8172, An Act for Salt lodization Nationwide (ASIN Law) and urged local government units (LGUs) in Central Visayas to ensure the full implementation of the salt iodization in the market as the country observes Goiter Awareness Week every end of January.

“Salt is an effective vehicle for iodine and other nutrients as it is consumed at constant levels by the population.  With this, universal salt iodization is a recommended primary prevention method against the risk of iodine deficiency disorders,” Dr. Parolita Mission, NNC-7 Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator said.

Mission pointed out that iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) are felt mostly among the women of reproductive age whose neonates are at high risk of irreversible mental impairment if the women are iodine deficient before giving birth.

Another group of women susceptible to IDD are those providing breast milk to their children, as this may be the only source of iodine during the first six months of their children’s life, Mission added.

Iodine is a trace element needed for the synthesis of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. These hormones are important in the growth, development, and control of metabolic processes in the body. Lack of iodine can lead to iodine deficiency disorders (IDDs) like goiter, as well as irreversible brain damage in the fetus and infant and retarded psychomotor development in children.

She recommends for LGUs to develop and strictly enforce policies in a coordinated manner that support universal salt iodization to protect pregnant women and women of reproductive age from the risk of IDD through food fortification and dietary supplementation.

“This is a nutrition-specific initiative that supports the desired outcome of the 2023–2028 Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) to reduce all forms of malnutrition,” Mission said.

Mission added that the World Health Organization (WHO) endorses the Universal Salt Iodization (USI) which ensures that all salt for human and animal consumption is iodized including salt for food processing, as a global strategy to eliminate IDDs.

The NNC7, according to Mission had recommended the following policies to support the implementation of the ASIN LAW-- regulate the fortification of salt with iodine; ensure equitable access for all population groups particularly women needing iodine-fortified salt:  regulate the salt quality and content of products by food producers and distributors and to strengthen nutrition program leadership and local nutrition committees in all LGUs in the country. (Photos: NNC/Google Images)

 

CitySavings goes for coastal, marine life conservation for its CSR

CEBU CITY -- City Savings Bank (CitySavings), the thrift arm of Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) integrates a sustainability-driven approach in its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives through Coastal Clean-up, Mangrove, and Tree Planting activities as its pledge on coastal and marine life conservation and fight against climate change.

CitySavings officials had participated coastal clean-up at Lemery, Batangas to take care of its vibrant ecosystem and Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur to preserve marine life at Dumanquillas Bay Protected Landscape and Seascape (DBPLS) and in an international coastal clean-up in 2023.

The coastal clean-up in Lemery, Batangas and Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, CitySavings collected approximately 50 kg of debris from the coastal areas known for thriving fishing grounds and coastal resorts.  The clean-up was a vital activity to eliminate wastes that threaten the vibrant ecosystem the area.

The clean-up focus in Pagadian City was to protect the Dumanquillas Bay Protected Landscape and Seascape (DBPLS) that is essential for preserving flagship species like the rabbit fish or Kitong, CitySavings said.

Beyond banking, CitySavings pledged to continue with these coastal conservation initiatives and green growth in 2024 to reinforce its commitment to environmental protection.  The coastal clean-up initiative brought together employees, volunteers, and local communities, fostering a collaborative spirit to eliminate waste and debris from coastal areas.

Project SustainabiliTree: One Tree at A Time

To advance its contributions to sustainability, CitySavings rolled out two Project SustainabiliTree Programs in Medellin, Cebu, and Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte in collaboration with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) and the 4th Marine Brigade.

CitySavings facilitated the planting of 1,000 mangrove trees in Medellin, and 500 Narra and Agoo trees in Pasuquin respectively. Project SustainabiliTree stands as a visionary initiative aimed at battling deforestation, amplifying carbon sequestration, and nurturing green spaces within communities.

Volunteers from City Savings Bank along with the residents of the host community and stakeholders actively join the mangrove planting at Medellin, Cebu to expand the nesting grounds of bird species, and Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte to protect the watershed.

The mangroves planted in Medellin, Cebu, serve to expand nesting grounds for diverse bird species within the municipality, enriching its already thriving ecosystem. Similarly, the tree-growing initiative in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, plays a crucial role in reinstating the protective shield of the watershed in Vintar and Banban, Bangui.

All these efforts effectively minimize erosion, while concurrently boosting water yield for the neighboring communities and are pivotal in preserving the environment's natural beauty and ensuring its long-term health. (Photos: CitySavings/Jomes Kemuel Ibanez)