DOST7 hosts 1st media forum to address S&T communication challenges

CEBU CITY— The Department of Science and Technology (DOST-7) hosted the first of a series of quarterly media forum on May 22 at the DOST7 conference hall to address communication challenges related to Science and Technology issues, programs and concerns.

According to DOST7, the quarterly media forum is designed to bridge the gap of communication disconnect, engage and inform media in Cebu on the various programs, services, and upcoming events of DOST 7.

It aims to establish a strong and collaborative relationship with the media to ensure an effective information dissemination and public enlightenment on science and technology issues.

At the first forum, DOST 7 highlighted its key initiatives, shared insights on its projects, and outlined the schedule for upcoming events. This platform also served as an opportunity to discuss potential collaborations with media partners, particularly through radio and television programs, to enhance public understanding and interest in science and technology.

DOST 7 recognizes the need to work closely with media partners to bridge the gap between scientific communities and the general public. One of the goals of this initiative is to make science accessible and comprehensible, especially when dealing with complex scientific jargon.

The Media Forum also aims to foster a cooperative environment where the media can seek assistance and gain insights from DOST 7 on various science, technology, and innovation topics. This initiative not only enhance the accuracy of science reporting but also ensure that the public receives clear and reliable information.

Science and technology are critical drivers of innovation and progress. However, the technical nature of these fields often poses a communication challenge. Through this forum, complex concepts are simplified and the DOST7 can provide the necessary support to its media partners, thereby empowering them to better inform and engage their audiences.

The Media Forum is set to become a regular activity in DOST 7’s calendar, occurring every quarter to maintain a continuous and productive dialogue with the media practitioners. (Photos: DOST7-FB/Dayien Lizada) 

CCCI, PIVAC invites plant hobbyists to a training-workshop

CEBU CITY— The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and the Philippine Inno Ventures Agriculture Cooperative (PIVAC) invites plant hobbyists green thumbs and those already into non-commercial or commercial garden to a training-workshop on May 30, at 9:00 am at the Golden Prince Hotel & Suites.

“This is one set of PIVAC’s series of Agricultural Learning Sessions to empower those with “green thumbs” for future plant business, at the same time helping the soil of the planet heal itself through learning,” PIVAC chair, Benny Que said.

This Agri Learning Session is for Plant Propagation. The course will teach various, but simple techniques of growing plants and vegetables in your own backyard or farm lot like grafting and budding.

𝑺𝒆𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘: https://forms.gle/4o9uBax7PpL9WRqq6

For inquiries, please call Joshua Misa at 09055253544 or email joshua@cebuchamber.org

PLDT/Smart opens1st “Experience Hub” in the Visayas at a mall in Bohol

TAGBILARAN CITY— PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. officially opened the first PLDT and Smart “Experience Hub” in the Visayas at the Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City, Bohol on May 8, the first-of-its-kind facility that features an interactive smart home setup, allowing customers to reimagine a future-ready home for their families, powered by PLDT and Smart.

“This is a big achievement not only for PLDT and Smart, but also for Tagbilaran City. Whenever there’s a business opportunity in Tagbilaran, that also means livelihood opportunities for the Tagbilarahanons. You have the opportunity to help many more, not only in terms of connectivity and livelihood, but in so many other aspects. I am offering my hand in partnership, as the city government is on its way to digitalizing many of our government services.” Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap said, in her message at the event.

They can also explore some of the latest smart gadgets to improve their home and lifestyle. The store also features self-care kiosks to help customers discover the best mobile and home connectivity plans that are suited for their lifestyle, and entertainment areas to engage the customers.

At the PLDT and Smart “Experience Hub” in Tagbilaran, customers can avail of the latest promos of Smart Signature and PLDT Home fiber plans, or switch their mobile numbers to Smart and TNT. Knowledgeable store specialists are also ready to receive the customers to ensure a meaningful visit.

Lawrence Ginete, a Smart subscriber for more than 20 years was delighted after learning about the newly-opened PLDT and Smart Experience Hub.

“Opening the PLDT and Smart E-hub in one of the more popular malls in Tagbilaran City is very beneficial to customers because its location is very accessible and they can easily visit the hub to upgrade their services or pay their bills,”Ginete said.

Smart has also recently fired up several cell sites across Tagbilaran City and Bohol province, boosting the communication and connectivity services in the area.

“PLDT and Smart deploying new cellsites in Tagbilaran is a great development. That’s really the way to go, we have to promote not only consultative and participative governance, but we have to encourage our community to be active in terms of projects and programs in Tagbilaran,” Mayor Yap bared.

The event was also attended by Eden Techico, PLDT and Smart Vice President and Department Head for Retail Operations and Transformation and Alexis Winters, PLDT and Smart Assistant Vice President and Center Head for Regional Customer Development Visayas and Mindanao. (Photos: PLDT/Smart @Marylou Gocotano)

DOST-PHIVOLCS inaugurates cluster monitoring center for earthquake, tsunami in Cebu

SAN FERNANDO, Cebu-- The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) established and inaugurated on May 10, the PHIVOLCS Visayas Cluster Monitoring Center for Earthquake and Tsunami (PVCMCET) at Purok 11-Santan, Barangay North Poblacion, San Fernando, Cebu.

"The Philippines is always perceived as victims of disaster because we are always affected by natural hazards. But I firmly believe that through science and technology, as well as collaboration, we can become victors over disasters and not victims," DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said during the event.

The PVCMCET is a strategic state-of-the-art facility to ensure service continuity of DOST-PHIVOLCS national earthquake and tsunami monitoring operations in cases of major disruptions in key operations of the PHIVOLCS Data Receiving Center (DRC) in Quezon City. 

PVCMCET features near real-time display and monitoring of earthquake and tsunami using data from the Philippine Seismic Network (PSN). Currently, DOST-PHIVOLCS has 125 seismic stations with upgraded computer systems for data acquisition and processing, newly installed tools for decision support, mapping, and information dissemination that are capable of near real-time streaming of seismic waveforms and real-time instrumental intensity reporting. 

The Visayas cluster center is composed of nine staff-controlled seismic stations, 25 satellite-telemetered seismic stations, six sea level monitoring stations for tsunami detection, and seven community tsunami alerting stations.

The new PVCMCET serves as the epicenter of collaboration among national and local government units, the academe, and non-government organizations in the region.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and DOST-PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol led the inauguration and ribbon-cutting ceremony with guests from Region VII offices and stations. (Photos: DOST-PHILVOCS FB/Melissa Mae Tamayo)

 

CLI hosts Homefest 2024 in key cities in VisMin in May to June

CEBU CITY –The Cebu Landmasters Inc. (CLI) launched the CLI Homefest 2024 in Cebu Base Line Center on May 11 with some 15 banks and lending institutions on hand to assist prospective clients to realize their dream house with exciting promos and discounts for both sellers and homebuyers.

The “Homefest 2024” extends to key cities in the Visayas and Mindanao from May to June this year starting in Cebu on May 11 to Bacolod on May 18, Iloilo on May 25, Davao on June 8 and Cagayan de Oro on June 15. 

The CLI Homefest made its biggest comeback yet for its first ever on-ground event offering enticing promo discounts, exclusive deals, and flexible housing loan programs for select CLI properties including Casa Mira, Garden Series, and Premier Masters.

With over 100 developments in 16 key cities across Visayas and Mindanao, CLI’s portfolio of masterfully-planned sustainable communities has always been tailor fit to suit everyone’s needs for a home.

CLI’s flagship brand Casa Mira offers reasonably priced housing communities for every aspiring Filipino family, such as: Casa Mira South, Casa Mira Linao, Casa Mira Towers Mandaue, and Casa Mira Towers Guadalupe, to name a few.

Find the perfect sanctuary with CLI’s bestselling Garden series that features well-designed residences perfect for those dreaming of a home that fuses nature in a progressive urban setting like Mandtra Residences, Mivela Garden Residences, Mivesa Garden Residences and more.

 

For prime urban settings that embody premium lifestyle and world-class living, discover one-of-a-kind masterpieces from CLI Premier Masters with offerings like 38 Park Avenue, Masters Tower Cebu, Base Line Residences among many others.

Exclusive discounts and flexible housing loan programs

Through CLI Homefest 2024, finding the keys to your next chapter is easier with exclusive deals on-the-day for future homeowners who are ready to move-in or buy a CLI property. Great discounts await buyers and sellers if one reserves a unit during the event.  Avail of CLI’s take-out promos that give move-in discounts, pre-selling perks and flexible housing loan options with reliable partner banks.

Cebu Landmasters property is masterfully built in vibrant urban communities that offers livable spaces curated for everyone’s lifestyle.  Investing in a CLI property ensures safety and convenience with enhanced safety features such as 24/7 security, CCTV and generous amenities of garden enclaves, pool, play area and more.

CLI developments are also managed by its own property management arm to make sure its properties are well-maintained, and a reliable and hands-on customer relations team to address residents’ concerns. 

Owning a CLI property is also made convenient with an easy five-step buyer’s journey to guide potential buyers from reserving a unit to moving-in at their next CLI home.   To know more updates about the CLI Homefest, visit the official event page at https://bit.ly/3ydfI4J. (Photos: MBCNewman/CLI/Google Images)

 

A Day in the Life of a Multihyphenate

What is a multi-hyphenate? The dictionary describes it as a "person especially a celebrity, with several professions or skills, someone who does several different jobs, especially in the entertainment industry." 

Ryan Sulit – also known as Extra Rai – perfectly personifies tech-savviness and definitely a 'multi-hyphenate.'  A graphic artist, content creator, gamer, streamer, and shout-caster, a true-blue digital enthusiast, he has long been receiving the rewards of an integrated digital lifestyle, making full use of online platforms and tools to create a digital environment that allows him to earn, succeed, and enjoy all at the same time.

Rai balances all his pursuits, diligently checking off everything on his to-do list as he switches hats throughout the day. As a freelance artist, he has been designing creative promotional materials for a client abroad for nine years now, so it’s a must for him to beat all his deadlines and exceed expectations.

After several hours of serious work, he would then dive into the thrilling challenges of online games whether it's on Tekken 8, League of Legends, or Team fight Tactics.

A successful streamer in his own right, Rai currently boasts over 122,000 followers on his Facebook page, Extra Rai. He engages with his online community members by showcasing intense gameplay while entertaining them with his infectious energy and quick wit during his streams that usually last for two to five hours.

His day will not end there, though, for he's still yet to unleash his colorful commentaries in gaming – this time as a shout caster. With his trusty microphone in hand, he hosts different online gaming tournaments, including the likes of Rumble Royale x Riot Games Community Brawl, TFT Vegas Open Championships, Axie Classic World Championships, and TFT Remix Rumble Championships. And when not doing so, he delves into thought-provoking discussions in his podcast, The Extra 1%, on Spotify.

Through the lens of Rai's dynamic digital lifestyle, it is abundantly clear how the role of a fast and quality internet connection remained constant.  From gaming to streaming, graphic designing to shout casting, it serves as the backbone of the digital ecosystem he created that allows him to share his passions with the world.

Rai could not express enough how much of a blessing it is for him to have Converge FiberX as his connectivity partner. Looking at how his former provider failed to keep up with all his endeavors, he did not regret one bit making the switch to a more reliable connection provided by this fiber connectivity.

“It's a big deal for me not to get disconnected because, imagine, you're playing, you're hosting online, and suddenly you're cut off. It's happened to me many times before, and it's so frustrating. Now that I can do everything seamlessly without getting disconnected, I can finally do my job properly, and I'm extremely satisfied,” he said.

In summary, Rai exemplifies a modern-day content creator – versatile, innovative, and constantly pushing boundaries.  Behind every successful endeavor lies a robust fiber connectivity solution, ensuring that he can fully leverage his creative expression to succeed across multiple fronts.

“I made the switch a couple of years ago because my internet experience was no longer satisfactory, especially for the things I needed to do. What I did was switch to Converge, and I never looked back afterward,” he said. (Photos/PR: Converge)

Pares Pinoy is now ready for franchising

​CEBU CITY— “Beef Pares” or mostly called as PARES is a popular Filipino dish that consists of cube beef briskets simmered until tender and served with a flavorful soup.

The word PARES means PAIR because beef pares is best eaten when it is paired with rice. It’s often enjoyed with sauce such as calamansi (or lemon), and chili peppers for an added kick from your regular pares. Pares is a comforting and hearty meal that is commonly served in local eateries.

Pares Pinoy Cebu is a new style of beef pares with a remarkable twist to your normal beef pares. They have a delectable and wide range pares meals. They opened its first outlet on August 8, 2022 at Jesa IT Center at General Maxilom Ave., Cebu City

In less than 1 year Pares Pinoy was able to add two more branches in Colon and at Country mall. 

True to its tagline Pares Pinoy is definitely the “BEST PARES” for everyJUAN because of the wide-range and flavorful food they serve, the genuine and accommodating service that their staff provide, convenience of their location and comfortability of their store ambience that every JUAN would like to come back.

Due to the request of many of its customers, PARES PINOY CEBU opens its door for everyJUAN to FRANCHISE. It would not just benefit the Pares Industry but also its customer who are a bit far from its three branches.

Franchise information

Pares Pinoy Cebu manager Abigail Valencia bared that the franchise fee is P500,000.00 but now for only P260,000.00 with no royalty fee and no hidden charges.

This is inclusive of use of Trademark, Site Approval, Training of Franchisee and Staff, Procurement Program, Opening Assistance, Operations Manual Research & Development with total capital investment of P 1,344,750.00.

The initial franchise term of three years and continuation fee of 50% of current franchise fee. Required space is about 70sqm and for those interested, contact Gail Valencia at 0960 079 5155 or email her at parespinoyfranchise@gmail.com(Photos: MBCNewman)