Save these dates, March 14-16 for Int’l Travel Festival 2025 in Cebu

CEBU CITY—Save these dates—March 14-16 for the International Travel Festival (ITF) 2025 in Cebu at the Pacific Grand Ballroom Waterfront Cebu City Hotel to celebrate “A Decade of Travel Inspirations" as this year’s theme of ITF 2025.

Tim Tio of MyEventology, in his welcome message during the ITF 2025 Media Launch, February 18 at Harolds Evotel said that this is 10^th year that MyEventology hosts the International Travel Festival (ITF) that aimed at fostering travel dreams and connecting travel enthusiasts, industry leaders, and dreamers.

“We reflect on the initial vision to create a global travel community, emphasizing the expo's evolution into a dynamic hub for travel enthusiasts, industry leaders, and dreamers.  Despite the pandemic's impact on travel, the industry demonstrated resilience and innovation, making the world more accessible,” Tio added.

He attributed the success of ITF to the support of exhibitors, sponsors, partners, and attendees who share a passion for travel and its transformative power and he envisions continued growth with new technologies, sustainable initiatives, and fresh opportunities, encouraging everyone to shape the future of travel and thanking them for their contributions to the journey.

Department of Tourism (DOT-7) assistant regional director, Gelena Asis-Dimpas on the other hand congratulated MyEventology for holding the annual ITF and celebrating its 10-year anniversary, highlighting its evolution from a space for adventure to a community of explorers and a platform for partnerships.

“I recall the energy and excitement of ITF 2024, with the presence of 189 vibrant booths representing destinations from across the Philippines and beyond.  ITF 2024 saw 50,000 visitors, resulting in P250M in on-site sales and P350M in sales leads, indicating the industry's recovery and growth,” Dimpas bared.

Dimpas noted the importance of the stories and connections made at ITF, which go beyond just the destinations visited. The profound impact of ITF on local communities, highlighting how it supports local guides, transport operators, and small-scale entrepreneurs.

She mentioned specific examples, such as a local guide in Cebu who uses tourism income to send her children to school and transport operators who rely on tourist arrivals for their livelihood. ITF is described as a lifeline for countless individuals across the tourism value chain, from ground workers to top executives.

“The multiplier effect of tourism is tremendous with ITF playing a crucial role in connecting travelers with local stakeholders and supporting community growth,” Dimpas added.

What to expect at the ITF 2025?

MyEventology bared that ITF 2025 has registered over 100 exhibitors and nearly 200 booths to bring the best deals, exclusive packages and thrilling experiences from airlines, hotels, resorts, travel agencies, visa specialists, tourism boards, and more - all under one roof!

ITF 2025 unveils again FOUR spectacular programs to elevate the travel experience:

·       March 13: Cebu Travel Exchange (CTX) - Before the main event, top tourism professionals gather at the 6th edition of this business-to-business networking event at the Arctic Room, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel at 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM. This is where partnerships are forged, collaborations take flight and the future of travel is shaped.

·         March 15: Tourism Students Day (TSD) - A high energy showdown featuring Cebu's top universities and colleges in Tourism and Hospitality! Watch students compete in tour guiding, quiz bowls, essay writing, dance performances and more - proving that the future of travel is bright and unstoppable.

·    March 14-16: IT Food City - What's travel without food? All three days, indulge in a gastronomic adventure at the destination food court featuring mouthwatering flavors from around the world! Because experiencing a place isn't complete without tasting its cuisine.

·       ITF 2025: More Than a Festival - It's a Movement! This isn't just an event; it's a celebration of cultures, destinations and unforgettable experiences. Whether one is a wanderlust-filled traveler, an industry expert, or a foodie in search of global flavors, ITF 2025 is the place to be. 

“Special mention to the incredible team behind ITF and sustaining it, providing a space for the travel community to connect, collaborate, and dream bigger. May I call on the audience to share the news and spread excitement about ITF 2025 because of the event’s potential to support communities, livelihoods, and dreams,” Dimpas said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

Special Feature: iACADEMY Cebu: The hub, the future of digital creative transformation in PH

CEBU CITY—The rapid growth of the digital technology and the emerging creative culture and the arts industry in Cebu as well as its geographic location, create a demand for highly specialized education and courses for skilled content creators and industry-ready professionals to lead and nurture the next generation of innovators, blending creativity and technology to meet global demands. 

“iACADEMY Cebu is it!  We provide a global standard of education at iACADEMY Cebu, ensuring our students are not only industry-ready but also globally adaptable in their fields.  The Academy integrates global standards into its curriculum, ensuring that students acquire essential skills such as critical thinking, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication,” Mitch Andaya, Vice President for Academic Affairs and College Dean told some members of the Cebu Online News Press Corps (CONPC), in an exclusive interview.

Andaya shared that through collaborations with global tech and creative companies, the institution not only enriches its educational offerings but also directly influences Cebu’s workforce dynamics, preparing graduates to excel in a globalized job market.

iACADEMY Cebu is located at the Filinvest Cebu Cyber Tower 2, Salinas Drive corner W. Geonzon St., Brgy. Apas, Lahug, Cebu City occupying 1,500 square meters of space that can accommodate up to 500 students.  The school has grown to 235 students from about 20 when it opened here in 2023 and now employs 18 practicing professionals as faculty members, ensuring that teaching is based on real-world experience rather than textbooks, Andaya bared.

“iACADEMY main campus started in Makati in 2002 while the Cebu branch has been operational for about two years now and yet, we are growing exponentially because we believe we are at the forefront of the digital transformation in the region.  Our school fosters leaders who blend artistry with technological prowess to drive future industries forward,” Andaya added.

The institution is more than ready to establish Cebu as a top choice for graduates who are prepared for the industry, making sure that its former students help enhance the city's image as a center for innovation, business, and digital success, he noted.

What makes iACADEMY Cebu top of the digital heap?

iACADEMY Cebu is already making waves in the education sector by offering specialized programs that align with the evolving needs of the workforce. With an impressive 96 percent job placement rate for its graduates, the institution stands out as a premier choice for students aspiring to excel in technology, design, and business, Andaya revealed.

In a quick tour of the facility, meeting and chatting with some of the students, this writer noted the uniqueness and diverse quality and ambiance of the school.  Andaya bared that the school offers diverse programs designed to equip students with the skills required by today’s dynamic industries.

Its popular programs include Animation, Multimedia Arts and Design, Software Engineering, Game Development, and Real Estate Management. These fields are in high demand, and iACADEMY ensures that students receive top-tier education to prepare them for competitive careers.

The school also takes pride in providing an unparalleled learning environment with high-tech laboratories that rival those of professional studios. The campus features cutting-edge amenities, including a Cintiq room, a lightbox room, a green room, multimedia and computer laboratories, and a modern student lounge.

Animation students, for example, work with advanced drawing tablets similar to those used by professionals at Disney and Pixar.  Additionally, each student has access to an EBSCO account, providing a wealth of over 250,000 e-books to support their learning.

iACADEMY also goes beyond the standards set by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), offering an additional 500 to 600 hours of training to ensure students exceed industry expectations, Andaya said.

“We were offering programs that were not available in traditional universities. In Makati, we were the first to offer a software engineering program, and now, in Cebu, we continue our mission of being a catalyst for innovative education,” Andaya said.

iACADEMY Cebu facilitates global internships and specialized programs that empower students to gain invaluable international experience and broaden their horizons. With a strong focus on producing globally competitive graduates, the institution equips students with the skills and insights needed to excel in diverse environments.

The success stories of the school’s alumni—who have made significant impacts in various fields are a testament to iACADEMY Cebu’s commitment to fostering talent that can thrive on a global stage, making a meaningful contribution to the international community.

Spyke Matthew Lim and Edwell John Cotejar, both in their second year of Software Engineering, attest to iACADEMY’s supportive learning environment. They praise the institution for its hands-on approach, flexible learning schedules, and the invaluable insights shared by their professors.

With tuition fees ranging from PHP 70,000 to PHP 85,000 per term, iACADEMY Cebu provides an investment in quality education that translates into high employability and career success.

As iACADEMY Cebu continues its upward trajectory, the institution remains committed to shaping future game changers—students who will redefine industries with their skills, creativity, and innovation and prepares future leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs, leaving an indelible mark on the educational landscape of Cebu and beyond. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

TVET Micro-Credentialing empowers Filipino workforce with future-ready skills

CEBU CITY – The Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA)- Qualifications and Standards Office began conducting the Zonal Deployment for Visayas on TVET Micro-Credentialing in January 2025 to prepare and empower the Filipino workforce through skilling, reskilling and upskilling for them to meet the evolving industry demands.

“This is just the beginning. We put so much emphasis on the crucial role of the industry associations and partners in the implementation of the Micro-credentialing for TESDA to quickly respond to their emerging needs,” TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez said in his message that was delivered virtually at the opening of the program.

Rosanna Urdaneta, TESDA Deputy Director General for Policies and Planning highlighted the essential roles of industry, academe and government in reinforcing the nation's workforce. Micro-Credentialing has a transformative potential for the workforce.  “Micro-credentials are more than just training—they are a strategic investment in the future of our people and our nation,” she remarked.

El Cid Castillo, Executive Director of the Qualifications and Standards Office led the deployment efforts, ensuring a seamless rollout of the micro-credentialing program. Micro-Credentialing is an important pace toward equipping Filipino learners with the precise skills and credentials required to excel in today’s dynamic job market, he said.

Castillo added that TVET Micro-Credentials offer a flexible, modular, and stackable framework that allows individuals to acquire specialized competencies in direct response to the current skills and certification needs of the industry.

This approach not only enhances career prospects but also supports the continuous development and lifelong learning of a future-ready workforce. Participants gained valuable insights into the micro-credential packaging rules and the registration process—critical steps in ensuring the program’s success, Castillo bared.

The event drew together TESDA officials both from the national, regional and provincial focal persons and high officials to discuss various needs, skills, insights, roles rules and regulations on Tech-Vocational education sector vis-à-vis industry needs and
demands. 

It also expanded its reach with the participation of Industry TVET Boards, TVI associations, Regional and Provincial TESDC members and other key industry stakeholders, including the various chambers of commerce and industry in Cebu, the Regional Development Council (RDC) in the region, DTI-7, Cebu Contractors Association and other TEC-Voc/TVET industry organizations.

                                 

The TVET-Micro-Credentialing in Cebu will also be done in other regions in the country this year, meeting with all industry stakeholders to introduce and promote the micro-credentialing initiative. (Photos: TESDA7)

 

 

 

 

 

DOST opens Metals and Engineering Innovation Center at NORSU

DUMAGUETE CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) opened the Metals and Engineering Innovation Center (MEIC) at the Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), with the first MEIC launched at the Technological University of the Philippines-Visayas, marking the second MEIC in Negros Island Region (NIR) in February this year.

"What does science and technology mean to you? The essence of science and technology signifies innovation, opportunity, and progress. We want to ensure that these are not just aspirations but realities.  We need to make sure that universities now go beyond publication. These are not simply big toys for big boys but big toys for you to make an impact. Go beyond teaching, extend as much assistance as possible,” DOST Secretary Renato Solidum gave a thought-provoking message assuring his continued support for the MEIC.

According to Engr. Robert Dizon, Executive Director of DOST-MIRDC, the center is part of an initiative by the Department of Science and Technology’s Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) to bring advanced metalworking technology and support to local businesses and industries in the NIR.

"The inspiration of the MEIC is the Food Innovation Centers (FICs) all over the country.  The DOST aims to set up MEICs across the country to provide much-needed assistance and innovation to local industries because MEICs are equipped with CNC machines, laser cutters, and computer-aided designing tools,” Dizon bared.

Dr. Edwin Romano Jr., NORSU Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, expressed confidence in the center’s impact, stating that the MEIC at NORSU will be a source of pride for NIR.

The new MEIC can help local businesses through design, fabrication, and machine-building services.  It can also become a place for research, helping companies create new products, parts, and equipment.  “By working with universities and industry leaders, the MEIC will drive collaboration and growth in the region,” he added.

Engr. Rowen Gelonga, OIC Director of NIR said that the facility is primarily for the private sector to have a higher level of competitiveness in business and industry and he also reaffirmed NIR's support for the facility, noting its multiple functions and ongoing discussions for collaboration with TESDA.

Training and Hands-On Learning for Students

Dr. Leah Buendia, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development highlighted the center's role as a "hands-on learning hub," noting that the province has a strong focus on manufacturing and sugar processing.

Buendia said that MEIC is also a hub to train students and faculty in specialized skills for metalworking and engineering. Students will have the chance to use professional-grade equipment, gaining practical experience that will help them in their future careers. Faculty members will also receive training to enhance their expertise, creating a pool of skilled professionals who can offer solutions to local businesses.

"Every time we visit the regions, we are sad that many of the equipment that we use are imported.  Our question is: How can we be self-sufficient in supplying the machinery requirement of the country?  The establishment of the MEIC will help us become self-reliant in supplying the needs of our stakeholder,” DOST Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang underscored the broader significance of the MEIC.

NORSU President Noel Marjon Yasi expressed his gratitude to the DOST for selecting NORSU to set up the 2^nd MEIC in the region promising to produce highly-skilled graduates because of the presence of the center.  With the opening of the MEIC, local businesses, students, and faculty now have new opportunities to work together and advance the metals and engineering fields in the region. (Photos: DOST7/Dayien Lizada)

 

Cebu Travel Catalog Int’l 2025 raises over P100M estimated revenues, offers “travel beyond limits” experiences

CEBU CITY –More than P100M estimated revenues raised from the three-day Cebu Travel Catalogue International (CTCI) 2025 on February 14-16 at the Atrium of Ayala Mall Cebu, with about 80 participating brands representing airlines, tourism boards, hotels, and travel agencies in Central Visayas with an estimated overall mall foot traffic of more than 120,000 walk-in crowd and clients inquiring, buying and booking for travel opportunities, exclusive deals/promos for future travels and immersive experiences.

This is the 9^th CTCI hosted by the Cebu Tours and Travel Alliance (CTTA) in collaboration with DOT Region 7, Cebu City Tourism Commission, CATOS, and Ayala Center Cebu with this year’s theme. “Travel Beyond Limits” to continuously showcase CTCI to be the leading gateway for Cebuanos and Filipinos to turn travel dreams into reality.

“This year, we are encouraging travelers to push past boundaries and seek adventure without hesitation. Our shared passion for travel transcends borders and brings people together in extraordinary ways. For nine years, CTCI has served as a gateway to new journeys, connecting travelers with destinations that inspire and experiences that transform,” CTTA President Alan Carvajal said at the CTCI opening event.

Baby Dy, CTCI 2025 chairperson encourages everyone to embark on another exciting journey in the world of travel and tourism as she declared the event open on February 14, Valentine’s Day.  “Embrace the limitless wonders that await. Keep your eyes open and your hearts ready, for the world is vast, beautiful, and waiting to be explored,” Dy added.

The 3-day event was replete with exclusive airfare and travel package deals, interactive booth experiences, and engaging activities such as a Valentine Travel Concert, a thrilling Travel Auction, and exclusive promos from participating exhibitors.

Dy mentioned that major airlines like Philippine Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Cathay Pacific offered special fares, while top resorts and hotels including Cebu Safari & Adventure Park, Club Wyndham, Golden Sands Destination Resorts, The Reef Island Resort, and NUSTAR Hotel Cebu put up exciting vacation packages. Event services were further enhanced by RCBC, Amadeus, and PLDT.

Clients’ engaging comments about CTCI exhibition

Several families this writer met and asked what they think of the event said, “grabe kaayo kay daghang travel promos and sales, especially those high-end hotels and resorts as well as air promo tickets to various destinations in the world.”

A retired couple from Barili town gushed at the “unbelievably low prices and promos” from airline tickets and resorts accommodations.  The couple bought tickets and vacation accommodation for Palawan, Taiwan and Korea.  “We will spend some of our retirement benefits to travel together since our kids have their own families. It’s our time to travel and be totally free!” they told this writer.

“Karon na jud ko maka experience og Palawan and Japan, kay these are my dream countries,” said a young newly-married couple. “Next year, Korea, China, Canada, mag savings sa mi,” they said.

The most engaging comments from the crowd include; “We always look forward to these kinds of events because we realize, we can afford to travel kay daghan man promos and deals.”  “Those high-end hotels and resorts that we think are expensive, they offer lower or even lowest rates that are very affordable for middle-income workers like us,” a group of young ladies said.

Suffice it to say that the 9^th CTCI 2025 opened and closed with a bang describing it as a gateway to new journeys, connecting travelers with inspiring destinations and transformative experiences. The travel industry's innovation and adaptation are highlighted, ensuring the industry remains vibrant and primed for new memories.

Judy Gabato, Department of Tourism (DOT) Region VII regional director aptly described CTCI 2025 as a testament to the enduring power of tourism, emphasizing its role in global travel, economic growth, and community development.

“I express my gratitude to the organizers, exhibitors, and participants for their commitment to strengthening the Cebu tourism industry and wish for the fair to inspire more collaborations, innovations, and adventures, aiming for a positive impact on the lives of Filipinos,” Gabato said. (Photos: MBCNewman)