All systems go for Cebu Sinulog 2026

CEBU CITY – All systems go for the Sinulog Festival 2026, according to a multi-sector group organizing various activities and events from the daily Novena prayer from January 8 to the fluvial parade to the street dancing around the City and the showdown festival on January 18, 2026 at the Abellana Sports Complex, Cebu City.

In a Kapihan sa PIA on January 7, Elmer Labella, executive director, Sinulog Foundation Inc. and Rev. Fr. Jules Van Almerez, media liaison Basilica Minore del Santo Nino de Cebu told media that coordination meetings have been done tackling various aspects of security, safety, routes, guidelines relative to the religious events as well as the cultural side of Sinulog.

“We are expecting more than one to two million people, pilgrims, tourists, others on the Sinulog Festival Day on January 18 as has been experienced through the years from the early morning Novena to the Fluvial parade and the day itself.  We always pray for peaceful and fun-filled festivities, which the Sto. Nino always gives us good weather and peaceful celebration,” Fr. Jules said.

Fr. Jules asks the pilgrims to dress appropriately when attending the daily Novena and masses while the PNP and the Cebu Port Authority also remind the public to refrain from carrying big backpacks and other sharp items.  Stricter security checks are being implemented at the ports.

P/LTCol Franco Rudolf Oriol, deputy director for administration, Cebu City Police Office (CPPO) said that the PNP is deploying more than 1,700 police personnel with augmentation from the other law enforcement units to secure the people and the various Sinulog activities in the City.

“There is a need of a strategic, unified, and well-coordinated deployment of security forces to ensure a safe and meaningful celebration. The Police assures that final preparations for the Novenario are underway, including signages for entrance and exit around the Basilica,” Oriol said.

He requests devotees and pilgrims to respect the signages and to keep safety and spirit as top priorities, including the involvement of various tiers and tracking areas, with a focus on maintaining order and safety.

Meanwhile, Department of Tourism (DOT-7) OIC-regional director, Gelena Asis-Dimpas bared that the Sinulog is a tourism magnet with millions of tourists from all over the world are expected to come. She noted that almost always, there is an increase of tourists’ arrivals to Cebu every January by five to 10 percent.

Fr. Jules added that most governments in Cebu have expressed their intention to attend and sponsor the event, but he emphasized the importance of maintaining the religious nature of the celebration and avoiding any celebrity-focused events.

The Basilica expresses a welcoming attitude towards the city governments' participation, as long as it aligns with the religious theme and concludes with a focus on ensuring that the celebration remains a religious event, free from any secular influences, Fr. Jules said.

 

 

 

 

Cebu prepares for ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026

 CEBU CITY – More than 1,000 delegates, including some 500 senior ASEAN officials such as tourism ministers and representatives of national tourism organizations, as well as travel exhibitors, international buyers, and members of the media are expected to attend the ASEAN Tourism Forum set on January 26 to 30 in Mactan Island, Cebu, Philippines.

Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro and Cebu City mayor Nestor Archival jointly held a meeting, January 6 at the Capitol Gallery to coordinate and synchronize all preparations for Cebu’s hosting of the ATF with discussions focused on streamlining logistics and enhancing inter-agency collaboration for the seamless conduct of the event.

Included in the preparation agenda is the safety and security protocols of the visiting dignitaries, including foreign ministers and their spouses during both official functions and personal engagements, in accordance with diplomatic standards.

Baricuatro directed Dr. Joshua Brillantes, regional director of the Department of Health DOH-7) to work closely with the provincial government in forming medical teams that will provide on-call medical assistance to delegates throughout the forum.

“There is a need to complete all preparations ahead of the forum because Cebu is also busy with the preparations for the Sinulog festivities. Both mayor Archival and I are committed to make the ASEAN Tourism Forum event a successful one that can strengthen Cebu’s international pride as an investment and tourism hub not only in the country but throughout the ASEAN region,” Baricuatro said.

The ASEAN Tourism Forum is ASEAN’s premier annual gathering of tourism ministers, government officials, and industry stakeholders from its 11 member states—Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste.

The ATF aims to promote Southeast Asia as a single tourism destination, strengthen regional cooperation, and shape future tourism strategies through ministerial meetings, TRAVEX business exchanges, and discussions on sustainability and digital transformation.

Department of Tourism (DOT-7) OIC-regional director, Geleena Asis Dimpas presented the schedule of high-level meetings, including the ASEAN Tourism Conference, where regional and international experts will converge to discuss tourism trends, challenges, and opportunities.

Dimpas said that beyond official meetings, delegates are offered curated tours showcasing Cebu and nearby destinations, including a heritage tour of Cebu City; island hopping in Lapu-Lapu City; leisure and golf activities in northern Cebu; heritage sites in southern Cebu; the Bojo River experience in Aloguinsan; the sardine run in Moalboal; Kawasan Falls in Badian, and a culinary and leisure tour in Bohol.

The regional directors of various national government agencies that form part of the organizing committees-- Department of Tourism (DOT), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Armed Forces of the Philippines, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and others attended the coordination meeting to ensure the efficient flow of all ATF-related activities. (Photos: Capitol PIO/FB)

UAP Cebu celebrates 50 years of shaping architectural profession in PH

CEBU CITY -- The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP)-Cebu Chapter celebrates its 50 years of shaping and pioneering the architectural profession in the Philippines though still facing the challenge of the stigma being an “invisible profession.” 

"We, architects are still facing the challenge of not being taken seriously as a legitimate profession, we are invisible within the construction and engineering industry in the country," said Architect Jose Mari Cañizarez, who had been a licensed practicing architect all his life and a Likha Gold Medal Awardee in his profession.

Cañizares said that people ask why should architects be paid when their designs are just drawings, or that they are not engineers. "Such gross misconception," he added.

UAP-Cebu Chapter marks its golden jubilee this January 2026 with the theme "Road to 50 Strong Years" to honor the past and designing the future.  It emphasizes the journey of elevating the profession in the various regions.in the country, said Arch. Johannesburg Frances Dy, Golden Anniversary Chairperson during the media launch on Monday, January 5.

 

Dy said, the theme is not just about celebrating a number but recognizing five decades of Skylines, communities shaped, and the integrity of Filipino architects. She emphasized the importance of architectural design in promoting community wellness, particularly through housing solutions for the poor to mitigate flood risks.

Canizares on the other hand highlighted the need for civic participation and community safety, suggesting that architects can help by reducing planning and stopping unconscious upland development.  He defined the architectural profession's readiness to respond in various capacities to community needs by outlining their commitment to training and ensuring structural stability, aiming to create sustainable environments for the people they serve.

According to Dy, the lineup of events begins on January 20 with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Redemptorist Church marking a moment of gratitude and reflection for the chapter. This will be followed by a Chapter Fellowship providing members an opportunity to reconnect and strengthen professional ties.

On January 23, the UAP Cebu Chapter formally opens its Exhibit at G Mall from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The exhibit aims to showcase architectural works, ideas, and initiatives that highlight the role of architects in nation-building and community development.

Continuing the festivities, UAP Cebu Chapter Family Day will be on January 24, designed to foster camaraderie among members and their families through fun and inclusive activities.  The week-long celebration culminates in a Gala Night on January 25 at Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, that will would gather members and distinguished guests for a night of recognition, fellowship, and celebration of the chapter’s achievements.

Challenges facing the architectural profession, construction industry

Ar. Melva Java,FUAP. Past UAP Cebu Chapter President, Former Dean, Univ. of San Carlos, Heritage Architect and one of the pillars of the chapter talked about the negative effects of development projects, including mining, on indigenous communities, leading to displacement and environmental damage.

“Homesteads are being destroyed, with houses floating in rivers due to improper planning and uncontrolled development.  I support Cebu City’s upland development moratorium until more studies are conducted and alternatives are explored. The construction industry is a significant contributor to climate change due to the materials used, such as glass, paints, steel, and concrete,” Java said.

There is need for architects and engineers to find sustainable construction materials that are closer to nature, like bamboo and trees. The Philippines' traditional construction methods used bamboo and trees, which respected nature and did not harm the environment, Java then called for a reduction in the carbon footprint caused by the construction industry, which is responsible for 40% of pollution.

“It is important to repair, restore and recycle instead of demolishing and constructing new buildings to mitigate pollution.  There is also challenge to preserve heritage structures in Cebu and in the country. Architects have a responsibility to keep these memories alive for future generations,” she added.

Ar. Zianne Nicah Amarga, current UAP-Cebu Chapter president mentioned that only lawyers and doctors are easily understood by the public, while architects are often mistakenly called engineers.  She explained that architects serve clients and must interpret their wishes, often involving collaboration with other professionals like structural and electrical engineers.

Clients often complain about the cost of architectural services, which attributes to the clients' lack of understanding of the value provided, Arch. Johannesburg Frances Dy said, “architects shape buildings and environment, which in turn shape society. They interpret clients/ dreams and we work with other professionals.”

Ar. Armund Claro, deputy chair for Task Force RA-9266 for UAP-Visayas told Manila Standard that there is a bigger challenge in the vision of implementing RA-9266 in every city and province in the country.  “This act mandates that only registered and licensed architects can practice architecture, protecting both the profession and the community, it is easier said than done,” he added.

Claro emphasized the importance of professional practice and the role of architects in ensuring environmental protection. The act also includes provisions for educating the public and schools about professional practice standards. He also said that the country lacks the political will in implementing the act, mentioning that some NGOs have already started the advocacy process.

“The act is easier to implement in Manila and provinces compared to other areas in the Visayas and Mindanao as he mentioned the personal and practice experience of millennials in the field of architecture. The act aims to protect the professional practice of architects and ensure that only qualified individuals can practice,” Claro added.

Ar. Amarga and Ar. Dy acknowledged the public’s lack of respect for the profession, emphasizing that their work goes beyond aesthetics and serves a purpose. They mentioned the importance of collaboration with architects, particularly with the government, but notes that often, their inputs are not taken seriously.

“Architects design with a specific purpose, not just to make things look beautiful, but to serve a functional and practical need. It is therefore important to check with the Philippine Regulatory Commission (PRC) identification and the importance of professional registration and licensing in ensuring quality and safety in design and legal practice,” Dy said.

 

 

3rd KAPATIK World Tattoo Expo happening on January 24-25 in Cebu City

CEBU – Over 250 tattoo artists from all over the world are expected to participate in the 3^rd KAPATIK World Tattoo Expo happening on January 24-25 at the International Eucharistic Convention Center Cebu (IC3) in Cebu City, Philippines.

 

In a media launch on January 3, 2026, Ronnie Macapagal, event producer and a pioneer in the tattoo industry in the Visayas and Mindanao region bared that the two-day event will feature at least 200 booths and up to 250 tattoo artists, with an estimated daily foot traffic of 1,500 to 3,000 spectators and tattoo enthusiasts.

“Tattoo artists/participants are coming from various countries, including Taiwan, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, Korea, India, Australia, France, Austria, Netherlands, and Israel and that the biggest group is from Taiwan, with a total of 45 participants,” Macapagal said.

Macapagal added that this year’s KAPATIK World Tattoo Expo brings in internationally acclaimed board of judges; live music and DJ performances; Bike and motor show; free vaccination and HIV testing from the Department of Health; showcase of Cebu's tourist destinations; live mural or painting exhibit, body painting, and graffiti.

Competition categories include the Best of Day 1 - Black & Gray; Best in Show; Best in Neotrad; Best in Realism; Best in Oriental; Best in Micro Realism; Best in Back Piece; Best in Leg Piece; Best in Arm/Sleeves; Best in Blackwork; Best New Artist; and Best in Hand Poke/Tap.

Cash awards await the winners in the various categories with prizes ranging from P100K, P50K and P30K for best in show, 2^nd and 3^rd placers.  The competitions also offer opportunities for models, some of whom are paid, to work with artists.

“We invite and encourage local artists to participate in the competitions with the global nature of the event and share their personal experiences of receiving offers from artists at events, specifically the interest of foreign tattoo artists in our local talents,” Macapagal said.

Dee Dee Villegas, a tattoo artist and host of the media launch, encouraged everyone to get the inside scoop on KAPATIK World Tattoo Expo 2026, now in its 3rd year highlighting Tattoo competition categories including the Doce Pares Filipino Martial Arts; KAPATIK Babe; Cebuano local band performances; DOH Seminar on tattoo safety & HIV awareness and the pioneers of the first Patik Festival.

Villegas said, the KAPATIK Babe is like a beauty pageant featuring women in tattoos while the Cebu Doce Pares Filipino Martial Arts evokes a special presentation adding context to the historical overview and the native roots and prominence of tattooing in the Filipino culture.

Macapagal added that one of the goals of the event is to promote the local community of tattoo artists and the art of tattooing as well as attracting local tattoo enthusiasts and curious individuals, side by side with well-known international tattoo artists.

“This is one of the biggest events in the world, it is not just a competition but also an opportunity for learning and networking with tattoo artists with diverse backgrounds of the participants, including many American artists. The competition includes various categories with multiple prizes for different positions. We encourage everyone, especially local tattoo artists to take advantage of the opportunities provided by this event,” Macapagal concluded. (Photos: KAPATIK FB/MBCNewman)

Bethel Insurance pays out over P12M to policyholders hit by typhoon Tino

CEBU CITY-- Bethel General Insurance and Surety Corporation paid out more than ₱12 million to its policyholders whose vehicles were declared total losses after Typhoon Tino, with the Cebu regional office processed the first claims and additional releases scheduled in the coming weeks.

“Once water reaches the dashboard, the engine and systems are compromised. Repair costs exceed the car’s value.  Floodwaters rose unexpectedly in many areas, submerging cars past dashboard level. At that point, repairs are no longer practical,” Jecelyn Casquejo, Bethel General Insurance Regional Head said.

A resident in Consolacion town recalled crying as her nearly paid-off car was towed away. “I did not expect floodwaters to rise so high,” she said. Having insurance allowed her to recover its value. Friends without coverage, she added, “sold severely damaged vehicles at rock-bottom prices—one pick-up for as low as ₱20,000.” The experience also prompted her to consider insuring her home, which also sustained flood damage.

A housewife in Pit-os, Talamban said she felt relieved having renewed comprehensive insurance just weeks before the typhoon. When their motorcar insurance expired in July this year, they wanted to avail of the compulsory third-party liability (CTPL) to reduce costs, she explained. But after the September 30 earthquake, she decided to reinstate full coverage—a decision that proved timely.

Another policyholder from Liloan, whose home sits beside a river, said floodwaters rose rapidly and submerged both their car and the ground floor of their house. He only salvaged two appliances. Since the family car was insured the vehicle for loss or damage, Bethel General Insurance released a check equivalent to fair market value.

Insurance as a Safety Net

Casquejo had spoken to the Talisay Chamber of Commerce a few days before the typhoon, sharing lessons from Typhoon Yolanda. “During Yolanda, I was processing claims. I had clients who chose CTPL only or lower coverage to save money. But those who had full coverage recovered fast. They rebuilt their businesses or ordered new vehicles,” she recalled.  

She emphasized the role of insurance in recovery: “You can build a business over many years and lose it in just a wink of an eye. (The) insurance (sector) may be very small because there are only a few players, but we are the backbone of the economy. Without insurance, many businesses collapse after disasters. With it, they can recover right away.”

Licensed by the Insurance Commission, Bethel offers motor, fire, property, marine, casualty, engineering insurance, and bonds. The company, marking its 65th anniversary next April, started its Cebu presence in 2017 and now operates five branches across the province.

For Casquejo, the contrast between insured and uninsured losses remains stark. She always encouraged people to learn from experience.  In the aftermath of Typhoon Tino, Bethel’s swift payouts highlight insurance as a vital force—helping households and businesses absorb shocks, recover faster, and rebuild with confidence.

For more information, visit company’s FB page - https://www.facebook.com/people/Bethel-General-Insurance-and-Surety-Corp-Cebu/61553794344406/. (Photos: MBCNewman)

Baricuatro ends 2025 with 80 executive orders focusing on transparency, accountability

CEBU—Cebu governor, Pamela Baricuatro ended 2025 with 80 executive orders that mostly anchored on reforms, transparency, accountability and heightened healthcare services across the province, setting the tone for an administration that placed transparency and public accountability at the center of governance from its opening weeks. 

“We’re emphasizing the importance of transparency and good governance to ensure that public funds are spent efficiently and effectively for the benefit of the people,” the governor said.

Among the earliest and most consequential were executive orders that opened government processes to public scrutiny—including the full implementation of Freedom of Information (FOI) in the Provincial Government of Cebu and the mandatory livestreaming of procurement and bidding processes of the Bids and Awards Committees (BAC).

These measures institutionalized open access to information, reinforced ethical procurement, and positioned Cebu as a national model for transparent local governance—earning recognition from the Presidential Communications Office for its FOI guidelines.

Building on this transparency framework, the governor’s subsequent executive orders focused on institutional revival, systems reform, and crisis preparedness, reconstituting key councils, operationalizing long-dormant offices, and establishing mechanisms to ensure continuity of services—especially in health, disaster response, youth development, economic recovery, and public safety.

In one of her media briefing in 2025, Baricuatro expressed optimism in Cebu’s economic outlook for 2026 that are driven by increased investors’ interest and more new international flights, with the hosting of ASEAN 2026 and the international economic summit here in Cebu.

Baricuattro also bared that holding the Regional Development Council (RDC) chairmanship bodes well for Cebu, highlighting its role in economic development.  She mentioned that 30 projects were approved from the previous year and five major infrastructure projects have been recommended to the President for Cebu.

She said that the five major infrastructure projects include Talisay Road, Meganilla Road, the Metro Cebu Expressway, and the Mananga River flood control, hospital modernization and series of housing projects and the continuous rehabilitation and rebuilding of infrastructure and services from the aftermath of typhoons and earthquake that hit Cebu in 2025.

“It's going to be a promising year, also for Cebu, since investors are now coming to the province, and also more international flights are now open, these really help out with our economic activity,” Baricuatro said. (Photos: Cebu Capitol PIO/FB)