Bohol-Panglao Int'l Airport modernization to boost Bohol, CV tourism industry

PANGLAO, Bohol— The immediate take over of the Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) to Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. (AIC) and the planned capacity upgrade of the airport are prime factors to boost the tourism industry and the overall economy of Bohol and the entire Central Visayas. 

“The modernization of BPIA is not just about upgrading infrastructure—it’s about enabling the continued rise of Bohol as a vibrant tourism and economic hub in the Visayas. We are proud to support the province’s aspirations through transformative infrastructure ecosystems such as BPIA,” AIC President and CEO Cosette Canilao said.

Canilao shared that under a 30-year concession agreement, AIC, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, formally takes over operations of BPIA in June 2025.  Upon turnover, BPIA will join the award-winning Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu and Laguindingan International Airport in Misamis Oriental as members of AIC’s growing aviation portfolio, she added. 

AIC is set to implement a ₱4.53B  investment plan that includes the expansion of BPIA’s passenger terminal building, installation of modern aviation systems, and enhancements to airside and landside facilities.

Within 1–2 years of takeover, AIC aims to boost BPIA’s current capacity from two million to 2.5 million passengers annually, with future expansions pushing capacity to 3.9 million passengers per year by 2030, the press statement said. 

“This project reinforces our goal of elevating airport experiences while contributing to local economies. We look forward to bringing our proven track record at MCIA to Bohol and working with stakeholders to unlock the full potential of the province’s ‘Green Gateway to the World’ and deliver unique Boholano hospitality in our service,” AIC Vice President and Head of Airports Business Rafael Aboitiz bared. 

BPIA’s transformation is expected to serve as a critical enabler of growth for Bohol and Central Visayas, Aboitiz added and BPIA, MCIA, and LIA are part of AIC’s broader strategy to develop and manage infrastructure assets that deliver topnotch Filipino hospitality, better and smoother travel, and seamless connectivity across the Philippines.

According to the PSA report, Bohol’s transportation and storage sector grew by 20.4% in 2023, while accommodation and food services surged by 27.9%, underscoring the province’s readiness for increased tourist arrivals and business activity.

The modernization of BPIA will complement Bohol’s economic priorities previously identified by the Bohol Provincial Planning and Development Office (BPPDO) which include sustainable tourism, climate-smart agriculture, and micro-enterprise growth.

As a unit of the Aboitiz Group techglomerate, AIC is leveraging its expertise in infrastructure and technology to drive sustainable growth in the country’s aviation sector. (Photos: AIC/Franz Dela Fuente)

Understanding the impact of tariffs in Cebu and Philippine exports

CEBU CITY—The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) in partnership with the University of San Carlos and the City of Cebu, hosted Economic Forum 2.0 on May 23, at the Rigney Hall in Talamban Campus on the theme, “Economic Crossroads: Tariff challenges and opportunities for the Philippines” with top caliber local economist speakers to call attention on the importance of the private sector, the business community and the civic society organizations in deepening the understanding on the impact of trade policy shifts and identify opportunities for the Philippines’ sustainable economic growth.

“The forum aimed to address the critical topic of tariff challenges and opportunities facing the Philippines’ economy and a platform to deepen the understanding of the tariff changes, gauge the implications for Philippine exports and the broader economy and identify strategies for resilience, innovation, and competitiveness in a post-tariff global environment,” CCCI president, Jay Yuvallos said in his opening message. 

It is a crucial platform for dialogue among economists, business leaders, and stakeholders to navigate the complex “economic crossroads” presented by current tariff challenges and opportunities for the Philippines, Yuvallos added. 

The imposition of U.S. tariffs in 2025 has sparked renewed concern among Southeast Asian economies, and the Philippines is no exception. Facing a 17 percent tariff under Washington’s new reciprocal tariff framework, the country finds itself reassessing its position within global value chains. 

“The implications are far-reaching – for exporters, policymakers, and especially foreign investors evaluating long-term potential in the Philippine economy,” Yuvallos said. 

The presence of prominent economists speakers from the University of Asia; Dr. Bryan To, OBE Senior Fellow, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and Robert Dan Roces, Senior Assistant Vice President & Economist, SM Investments Corporation suggested a deep dive into the implications of current and proposed tariff policies on various sectors of the Philippine economy. 

Discussions and summary Insights from the forum

The discussions included on how tariffs affect import and export costs, competitiveness of local industries, consumer prices, and overall economic growth. While specific detailed discussions and recommendations are not yet widely available, insights can be drawn from the forum’s overarching theme and the expertise of its speakers. 

The diverse backgrounds of the speakers academic, international business, and local corporate suggested a comprehensive analysis, likely encompassing macro-economic trends, global trade dynamics, and specific business-level impacts within the Philippines. Their insights would have provided a multi-faceted view of the economic landscape.

On challenges, these could include increased costs for imported raw materials for local manufacturers; reduced competitiveness for Philippine exports due to reciprocal tariffs from trading partners; potential for inflation if tariffs drive up prices of imported goods and impact on specific industries reliant on international trade.

“A slightly depreciated currency supports exports and this is the best time to reposition our manufacturers and exporters. If we have one of the lowest export tariff rates, it is in the interest of many manufacturers to relocate to the Philippines, to relocate to Cebu and export to other countries like the US,” Dr. Ronilo Balbieran, Senior Economist, Environment Planner & Professor, University of Asia said.

 On opportunities might involve the protection for nascent local industries against cheaper imports; incentives for domestic production and value-adding activities; potential for negotiating favorable trade agreements that open new markets and attracting foreign direct investment by creating a more level playing field for local businesses.

 “We are looking at the possibility of using AI integrated into the business. When you are seeing an increase in hedging, hedging the exchange rate, or hedging the dollar, that’s when you know that the uncertainty is very high,” Robert Dan Roces, Senior Assistant Vice President & Economist, SM Investments Corporation, bared. 

Cebu’s role as a major economic hub in the Southern Philippines, discussions also focused on the specific implications of tariff policies for Cebuano businesses and industries, such as furniture, tourism, and IT-BPM, which have significant international exposure. 

Dr. Brian To, OBE, Senior Fellow, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania said, he will do his best for the City of Cebu, for the Province of Cebu, speaking on his role of supporting his wife, Governor Elect Pam Baricuatro. 

Potential suggestions from the forum 

Concrete recommendations from this forum are not yet published, but similar economic discussions often lead to suggestions that include—

1. Policy Adjustment. Recommendations for government to review and potentially adjust tariff rates to optimize economic benefits, balancing protection for local industries with the need for competitive imports.
2. Trade Negotiations: Emphasizing the importance of proactive engagement in international trade negotiations to secure favorable market access for Philippine products.
3. Industry Support: Proposals for targeted support programs for industries most affected by tariff changes, or those identified as having significant growth potential under new tariff regimes.
4. Diversification: Encouraging economic diversification to reduce reliance on specific sectors highly sensitive to global trade policies.
5. Ease of Doing Business: Continued efforts to streamline business processes and reduce bureaucratic hurdles, making it easier for businesses to navigate international trade regulations.

Event organizers said that this forum hopes to call attention and understand recommended strategies for Filipino exporters, manufacturers, and MSMEs as well as strengthening collaboration between public and private sectors because the ever-changing patterns and flows of global trade dynamics are influence by various factors like economic shifts, geopolitical events, and technological advancements. 

These dynamics shape the relationships between countries and affect their economic growth, development, and overall stability, CCCI concluded. (Photos: CCCI)

Preserving handloom weaving tradition in Argao with upgraded machines

ARGAO, Cebu— The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Central Visayas in partnership with Cebu Technological University (CTU) – Argao Campus, launched on May 20 the upgraded Shared Service Facility (SSF) for Handloom Weaving worth P4.034M to preserve Cebu’s rich handloom weaving tradition.

“Today’s launch is not just about equipment—it is a celebration of culture, innovation, and community resilience,” DTI 7 Acting-Regional Director Esperanza Melgar said at the ceremonial turnover at CTU-Argao Campus.

Melgar said, the SSF program is a flagship initiative of the DTI that aims to improve the productivity and efficiency of MSMEs by giving them access to better technologies and shared facilities. 

“The handloom weaving SSF in Argao was first launched in 2016 and turned over in 2022 and it continues to empowering rural artisans and reviving the almost-lost tradition of hablon—a form of traditional weaving with deep roots in Cebuano history,” Melgar shared. 

The project costs about P 4.034 million with the upgraded facility introducing three large crochet overlock sewing machines and a cutting-edge EEVA Loom Weaving Machine to strengthen the production capabilities and design innovation of the Hinablon sa Cebu social enterprise, currently supporting 33 weavers, 26 sewers, and 90 product finishers, impacting 149 families in the region.

The new EEVA loom, the first of its kind in the Philippines is equipped with eight shafts and treadles, integrates with WeavePoint, a specialized textile design software that enables advanced pattern-making, faster prototyping, and effective archiving of traditional designs. According to Melgar, its arrival marks a historic first for the Philippine textile sector and places Argao at the forefront of weaving innovation in the country.

HATEKA applications of this technology

One of the most inspiring applications of this technology is HATEKA, Hanyag sa Matematika, an extension project of CTU’s Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics. HATEKA bridges mathematics and traditional weaving to transform communities, preserve culture, and ignite creativity. 

In collaboration with Holistic Coalition of the Willing (HoliCOW), the Hinablon sa Cebu Center, and local weaving communities in Argao, HATEKA empowers students to apply mathematical principles such as symmetry, tessellations, and graph theory in designing textiles.

Using WeavePoint, students created 35 new weave designs, and successfully translated 17 of them into actual Hinablon fabrics, showcasing the potential of fusing tradition with innovation. The project also trained 37 student extensionists, produced 90 unique weave drafts, and launched a Weave Draft Directory to support ongoing design development, DTI-7 bared.

For its innovative approach, HATEKA was recently awarded the Red Award by the Good Design Award Philippines 2024 and was also recognized by the Good Design Award Japan 2024, Melgar said that this initiative aligns with DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque’s five-point agenda for SME development: Digitalization and AI, Diversification, Funding, Franchising, and Mentoring & Learning. 

“It also showcases DTI’s commitment to fostering heritage-based industries that are future-ready. The upgraded SSF for Handloom Weaving is not only a step forward in preserving cultural heritage—it is a beacon of innovation, community empowerment, and inclusive growth,” Melgar said.

The upgraded SSF in Argao marks the third major SSF launch in Cebu for 2025, having launched SSF for Milk Processing at the Arapal Livelihood Center in Bogo City on April 5 and the CIT-U AI FabLab in Cebu City on May 8 this year. 

DTI-7 establishes 176 SSF projects in Cebu

As of this writing, DTI-7 has established 176 cumulative SSF projects, with 102 turned over to cooperators with Cebu province accounting for 81 of these projects, representing 45% of the region’s SSF portfolio.

The SSF for Hand Loom Weaving at CTU – Argao has undergone multiple phases of enhancement since its initial establishment in 2016, with the goal of empowering local artisans and strengthening the region’s Gifts, Décor, and Housewares (GDH) sector. 

Initially funded with ₱825K the facility was equipped with several loom weaving machines of varying DPI specifications to support the production of handloom woven fabrics such as towels, fashion apparel, and diploma holders. 

Recognizing the potential of the weaving sector, DTI-7 added investments including the ₱1.8 million funding in 2018 for embroidery machines and digitizing software to integrate modern textile embellishment. 

In 2021, DTI-7 upgraded the project with a ₱1.998 million fund provided for advanced loom equipment, accessories, and prototype looms, significantly improving production efficiency and design innovation. 

Melgar said, these SSF investments position CTU-Argao as the leading institution for sustainable textile production and creative industry development in Southern Cebu.

“Together with CTU-Argao, LGU Argao, our local creatives, and community stakeholders, we continue to weave a future that is innovative, inclusive, and proudly Tatak Pinoy,” Melgar concluded. (Photos: CTU-Argao)

Three years of precious brew, connections

MANDAUE CITY-- Precious Brew Cafe (PBC) marks three years of brewing coffee that creates joy, comfort and connections within the community since the Café opened on May 17, 2022 at A.S. Fortuna in Mandaue City, and now celebrating its anniversary with the theme, “A Toast to 3 Years of Coffee and Connections.” 

“Our third anniversary is more than just a celebration of time—it’s a celebration of people, stories, and the connections made possible by coffee. We are incredibly grateful to our customers and community for the continued love and support,” Ferro Lao, Owner of Precious Brew Café said.

Lao shared that since they opened the Café three years ago, PBC has been more than just a coffee shop—it has become a favorite neighborhood hub for casual conversations, shared precious moments, and creative sparks over delicious food and perfectly crafted drinks.

In celebration of this milestone, PBC is giving a special discount during its Anniversary Week, beginning May 17—offering coffee lovers and loyal patrons a chance to enjoy their favorites for less, Lao bared.

Reinforcing PBC’s advocacy of creating a space that nurtures both creativity and community, it strengthens its customizable Event Packages for those looking for cozy spaces to hold their special events and immersive activities, such as birthdays, bridal showers, workshops or any event that brings together enthusiasts, hobbyists and creatives to bond over cups of precious coffee.

In addition to the dine-in experiences, PBC is happy to bring its coffee closer to their patrons through its all-new ‘Precious Coffee Cart’ packages—a mobile coffee experience, the perfect addition, for your corporate gatherings, weddings, and birthdays.

As PBC enters another exciting year, it remains committed to delivering warm experiences and inspired moments—one cup, one connection at a time.  “It is important to maintain a stable and appealing menu for our customer base,” Lao particularly noting the success of its Korean menu.

PBC is proud in its current state of menu and services which have been well-received by its customers.  The Café offers a complete meal, unlike other cafes which only serve drinks and pastries. 

Lao added that its focus on individual customers with the regular menu could change, indicating a possible shift towards a more diverse customer base, hinting the possibility of expanding its services and offerings to new locations, reflecting a strategic growth plan.

Follow @preciousbrewcafe on Facebook for updates, event schedules, and promos throughout the anniversary month. You may also contact PBC for inquiries via 09178783168. (Photos: MBCNewman & PBC)

Feature: Cebu seen as hub in medical tourism, aesthetic medicine in Southern PH

CEBU CITY—The beauty and aesthetics industry in Cebu are thriving and poised for continued growth, driven by an increasing demand for innovation, strategic partnerships, strong market for beauty and wellness services and treatments.

Cebu’s growing role as a hub for medical tourism and aesthetic medicine in the Southern Philippines continues to attract both professionals and clients seeking advanced treatments, and the city is becoming a key destination for beauty innovations, attracting international brands and investors.

Stakeholders in the beauty and aesthetics industry, in a medical tourism summit early this year, acknowledged that the sector is attracting more and more patients from the Visayas and Mindanao for aesthetic procedures and the industry is embracing advanced technologies like artificial intelligence in aesthetic treatments, with clinics introducing AI-powered devices for more precise and effective procedures.

“The Asia Pacific aesthetic medicine market is booming, and Cebu is benefiting from this trend as it attracts a growing number of beauty-conscious individuals seeking non-invasive and advanced treatments,” Ludivico Perez, Jr. of BTL Aesthetics Philippines said. 

BTL Aesthetics Philippines is a global company based in Prague and an exclusive distributor of some AI-driven, non-invasive and high-end machines in the country and now in Cebu.  Perez added that the industry is increasingly integrating wellness practices and holistic experiences, with clients seeking treatments that enhance both beauty and overall well-being.

Perez said, the industry is projected to see continued promising demand, with people willing to spend more on aesthetic services. This growth is attributed to increasing awareness and adoption of beauty and wellness treatments.

“The introduction of AI-powered aesthetic treatments, such as EMFace, Exion, EMSculpt Neo, Vanquish Me, Exilis Ultra 360, EmSella, EMTone and more from BTL Aesthetics, is revolutionizing non-invasive procedures. These machines use AI to enhance skin tightening, wrinkle reduction, and body contouring, providing personalized treatment plans and improved patient outcomes,” Perez bared.

Stakeholders and key players in the beauty/aesthetics industry and medical tourism sector continue to host industry-specific events, workshops and seminars to elevate brand profiles, facilitate knowledge sharing, and foster partnerships.

Beauty clinics in Cebu embracing high-end innovation, latest tech

Cebu businesses in the beauty and wellness sector are partnering with innovation hubs and companies that bring in non-invasive procedures to foster collaboration, expansion and operational efficiencies.

Ultra-Beauty Institute located at 296 V. Rama Avenue Calamba, Cebu City, managed by a renowned OB-GYN, hysteroscopic, laparoscopic, and cosmetic surgeon in Cebu, Dr. Melinda Chiong introduces several non-invasive, high-end, AI-powered tech machines for facial and body treatments.

“Non-invasive procedures are gaining popularity due to their quick results and minimal recovery time, drawing younger clients who view them as preventative measures, personalized aesthetic solutions in exclusive settings, catering to discerning customers seeking premium services,” Dr. Chiong told this writer.

Ultra-Beauty Institute features its latest acquired machines-- he Emface Submentum and Eye Applicators, and the holistic body-enhancing benefits of Emsculpt NEO.  These are a revolutionary non-invasive treatment that lifts and tones the face by stimulating muscles and boosting collagen all without needles or downtime.

The new Emface Eye Applicator, designed to lift the delicate periorbital area, and the Submentum Applicator targets the chin and jawline for enhanced facial contouring.  “As a doctor and a mother, I’ve always believed in empowering women to feel strong, confident, and cared for, and that’s exactly what it’s all about—a celebration of beauty that goes beyond skin-deep,” Dr. Mia said.

One Nadela Medical Group with branches in Cebu City and Taguig, launched the EXION, an AI-Driven rejuvenation machine that combines monopolar radio frequency and targeted ultrasound to naturally boost hyaluronic acid production for an enhance skin hydration, lifting and toning.

“It’s like having a personalized beauty expert guiding your transformation every step of the way. This is the future of beauty—tailored, intelligent, and truly effective,”.Dr.Vinizzia Nina Nadela-Kong, owner of One Nadela Medical Cebu told this writer.

The machine is versatile. It can be used on various areas of the face and body, including the face, neck, décolletage, arms, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks and the device offers customizable treatment options to suit the unique needs of each client, Dr. Kong added.

According to Dr Mia and Dr. Vinizzia, there is a growing interest and demand for product innovation, access to cutting edge technology and beauty enhancements without needles and less Botox procedures, with consumers willing to pay more for better results.

Wellness integration, industry trends in PH

Industry data reports said, the Philippine skincare market is projected to grow from P51.8 billion in 2021 to P74.8 billion by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7 percent while the "clean beauty" trend is gaining momentum, with consumers seeking natural and sustainable products.

Reports from the Philippine’s beauty and personal care market trends said that premium beauty and personal care products are growth drivers, with social media influencers playing a key role in promoting industry developments.

Skin whitening products remain popular, with consumers seeking products containing ingredients like arbutin, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide. Color cosmetics, fragrances, and deodorants are also in high demand, driven by the return of busy, pre-pandemic lifestyles.

It said that more leading suppliers advanced energy-based aesthetic laser, RF devices are expanding their services nationwide and are registering 10 to 15 percent annual growth with loyal customer base, with 80 percent returning customers, the report said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

Nestor Archival, Cebu City’s new mayor

CEBU CITY – The Commission on Election (COMELEC) through the Board of Canvassers (BOC) proclaimed Engr. Nestor Archival, Sr. and Tomas Osmena as the new mayor and vice-mayor of Cebu City respectively on May 13 at the Cebu City Hall Social Hall with Archival garnering 256,197 and Osmena with 233,906 votes.

Archival’s votes surpassed his opponents, outgoing Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia and aspirant Yogi Ruiz, who conceded and congratulated him, few hours after 84.52 percent voter turnout, with 606,789 out of 721,469 registered voters casting their ballots and completed the canvassing of all 790 clustered precincts in Cebu City.

In a press conference after the proclamation, Archival vowed to implement free hospitalization for all Cebu City residents and introduce sustainable employment opportunities for vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and single parents.

 

He promised to increase Cebu City's revenue to P12 billion without raising taxes, focusing on improving tax collection efficiency to generate more funds for key government services.  Education, healthcare, and social welfare are his top priorities, including expediting the completion of the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC) and providing financial assistance to vulnerable sectors.

“As a longtime city councilor and with my experiences in policymaking and budgeting gives me an edge in managing effectively Cebu City’s resources,” Archival said.

Vice-Mayor elect Tommy Osmena on the other hand accepted the BOPK win ahead of the proclamation on Monday night.  “Believe it or not, the real hard part is coming. Now it lies upon Nestor and myself to fulfill the duty entrusted to us; to show that BOPK makes not empty promises, but guarantees,” he said.

According to Osmena, the duties and tasks ahead will be hard, tiring, but they can de done.  Together with everyone invested in this beautiful City, he said, “We will make Cebu City #1 again!”

Archival's win marks a significant shift in Cebu City politics, with his administration expected to prioritize the welfare of its residents. (Photos: Archival's FB posts)