Cebú City and Province [Archive] - Page 133

dodong

August 18th, 2007, 03:00 PM

If Tomas was once proclaimed the best mayor in the Philippines, I now self-proclaim him as the worst

more than that, his arrogance seems to be contagious...some city councilors are now like him.

VICTORY PARTY OF TEAM PHILIPPINES: ALA Saddened By No-Show of City Dads

By Emmanuel B. Villaruel
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 17 Aug 2007

Well-loved sportsman Antonio "Bidoy" L. Aldeguer, acknowledged as the godfather of Cebu boxing, couldn't hide away his disappointment on the no-show of Cebu City officials they invited to grace the victory party of Team Philippines the other night at the Marriott Hotel.

In a gesture of courtesy that he had always been known for, Aldeguer invited City Mayor Tomas Osmeña and city councilors Sylvan "Jack" Jakosalem and Raul "Yayoy" Alcoseba to attend the simple bash he hosted for the ALA Boxing Team as tribute to their heroic conquest of Mexico in the Boxing World Cup recently.

But none of them came.

"It's so sad. None of the three City officials we invited came or even just drop by to congratulate the boys," lamented Aldeguer.

ALA Boxing Gym executive vice president Jerry Bandalan said Osmeña turned down the invitation due to prior commitments. Jakosalem confirmed his attendance, while Alcoseba promised to drop by, but both of them failed to make it to the memorable affair.

Mandaue City executives headed by Mayor Jonas Cortez (C) welcomed the victorious boxers.

"Maybe they didn't realize that this is a victory not only for the Philippines, but also for Cebu because these are all Cebu-based boxers," added the ALA Boxing Gym big boss obviously referring to Z "The Dream" Gorres, AJ "Bazooka" Banal, and Michael Domingo.

Gorres, whose masterful display of ring craftsmanship vaulted him to an eighth round TKO win over former WBC light flyweight champion Eric Ortiz to snatch the IBF Intercontinental super flyweight title, is from Brgy. Ibabao, Mandaue City.

Good thing that Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortez was there so personally extend his congratulations to the ALA Boys especially to Gorres for bringing honor to the Mandauehanons.

On the other hand, Banal, who scored an electrifying third round knockout of Jorge Cardenas, traces his roots from Corella, Bohol but was born and raised up in Brgy. Ermita, Cebu City.

In fact prior to being christened as "Bazooka", Banal was nicknamed "Batang Ermita" in his personal profile on philboxing.com and boxrec.com. At the moment, he is considered as the next big thing in RP boxing and no less than celebrated American trainer Freddie Roach described him as the best young prospect in the world.

For his part, Domingo hails from Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, but resides and made his mark in Cebu for three years now. He pulled off a stunner when he tamed the previously undefeated Miguel Roman by a lopsided unanimous decision.

Rey "Boom Boom" Bautista, the lone casualty of RP Team in six bouts against Mexico losing via a shocking first round knockout to WBO super bantamweight champion Daniel Ponce de Leon, is from Candijay, Bohol but is more popular here in the Queen City of the South.

Gerry Peñalosa, who dethroned Jhonny Gonzalez via a seventh round knockout to grab the WBO bantamweight crown, is from Negros Occidental, but carved his name in the hallowed portals of boxing here in Cebu under the guidance of Aldeguer and Rex "Wakee" Salud.

The sixth member of Team Philippines that brought home the gold and diamond-stuffed US$500,000 World Cup trophy is Diosdado Gabi, who was also impressive in chopping down Jose Angel Beranza. Gabi is from Davao City, making all the Filipino World Cup conquerors from the proud Bisaya-speaking territory.

LordCarnal

August 18th, 2007, 03:05 PM

They had to bring all of it across the Pacific Ocean?

Yup, I think so. The cement factory though was owned by an American. If I'm not mistaken I think it's APO Cement but I'm not sure.

rage@cebu

August 18th, 2007, 03:10 PM

Cebu Commercial Tower... it looks nice man xad. :)
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140707.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140685-1.jpg

animasola

August 18th, 2007, 03:17 PM

^^Wow, the CCT is actually looking great. :banana2:

sugbuanon

August 18th, 2007, 04:46 PM

Update for Ultima Residences Ramos Tower:

instead of 31-storeys it is changed into 33-storeys because they will add 2 floors for the penthouse...

Update for Crown Regency Hotel:

aside from drop tower/ slingshot tower ... there will be 2 or more rides to be installed in the Crown Regency Hotel... its like an amusement center up there

some of the rides will be pattern with this one

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u177/Jarenz_038/xscream.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u177/Jarenz_038/bigshot.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u177/Jarenz_038/bigshotnight2.jpg

visit this link:

http://www.stratospherehotel.com/tower_admission_prices.html

Good News:

The rides are open to the public but you must expect a higher price for this one...

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/IMG_4667.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/IMG_4663.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/IMG_4664.jpg

the rides of crown regency hotel are first of its kind in the country and second only in the world.. it will have the orbiter or the insanity ride [same with the 3rd pic posted by jarenz] and the rollercoaster-like ride called the edge.. the latter is no ordinary ride as the cart will spin/swing while circling around the track.. :cheers:

slimer

August 18th, 2007, 05:53 PM

^^malula man gai ko mosakay sa elevator sa club ultima nga glass, kana pa kaha lol...

@rage
nice perspective on your pics there.

chymera00

August 18th, 2007, 05:55 PM

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/IMG_4667.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/IMG_4663.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/IMG_4664.jpg

the rides of crown regency hotel are first of its kind in the country and second only in the world.. it will have the orbiter or the insanity ride [same with the 3rd pic posted by jarenz] and the rollercoaster-like ride called the edge.. the latter is no ordinary ride as the cart will spin/swing while circling around the track.. :cheers:
whoa!!!! very exciting ... I would like this development to happen, it's a very out of the usual kind of thing.

animasola

August 18th, 2007, 06:37 PM

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/IMG_4667.jpg

the rides of crown regency hotel are first of its kind in the country and second only in the world..

Bai, where is the first located at? Las Vegas?

achernar

August 18th, 2007, 11:40 PM

Any news kung kanus-a ang Plebiscite sa Naga? :banana:

Ady001

August 19th, 2007, 11:48 AM

Ngutana lang ko mga migo, naa bay maayo nga housing project dapit sa dakbayan nga barato? Kanang pwede tag 3k MA kada bulan? ingna lang ko please.

Sinjin P.

August 19th, 2007, 12:39 PM

As always, Ayala Center Cebu is photogenic.

By the way, the Suroy Suroy Cebu, Northern Heritage Escapade is set on August 30th to September 1st. Anyone who'll attend?

SleMarKen

August 19th, 2007, 02:44 PM

Yup, I think so. The cement factory though was owned by an American. If I'm not mistaken I think it's APO Cement but I'm not sure.

Yup, its APO. In fact, in one of the posts of the Golden Gate, there is a marker/plate that states that the cement used is from Cebu, Philippines.

Sinjin P.

August 19th, 2007, 02:57 PM

But the thing is, the APO Cement plant is contributing to the very high air pollution levels of Naga. Its very harmful according to the latest survey of the health department. Cebu City, meanwhile, is still at bearable levels, congratulations

dive-cebu

August 19th, 2007, 03:09 PM

^^ agree! done research in naga and there are a number of incidents of respiratory diseases because of the quarrying activities in the locality.

rustyboi

August 19th, 2007, 04:39 PM

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/IMG_4667.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/IMG_4663.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/IMG_4664.jpg

the rides of crown regency hotel are first of its kind in the country and second only in the world.. it will have the orbiter or the insanity ride [same with the 3rd pic posted by jarenz] and the rollercoaster-like ride called the edge.. the latter is no ordinary ride as the cart will spin/swing while circling around the track.. :cheers:

that is sooooooo wicked!!! darn, what's the target date of the rides? marvin, you're tasked to do the miniature thing? Congrats for a job well done! :cool:

good googly moogly, no doubt this will become a hit among tourists and locals alike! :rock:

eUkLid

August 19th, 2007, 09:07 PM

Date: Sun, 19 Aug 2007 15:43:00 +0100
From: Wayne <wjohns@BALITA.PH>
Subject: 19 - RP's 9th LRT system eyed for Cebu

If plans don't miscarry, Cebu will soon have a
modern, efficient and reliable light rail transit
(LRT) system to keep pace with rapid population growth and economic expansion.

Cebu Rep. Eduardo Gullas has filed House Bill
310, seeking the establishment of the province's
first LRT system, in order to ease heavy motor
vehicle traffic congestion in one of the country's fastest-growing urban hubs.

"There is no question Cebu desperately needs a
fast, safe, convenient and economical LRT
system," Gullas, a former Cebu provincial governor, said.

"This is the best time for the government to
invest in a new LRT system for Cebu, with the
peso strengthening against the US dollar," Gullas said.

"Two years ago, it would have cost us P55 billion
to put together a US$ 1-billion LRT system. Now,
it would cost us only P46 billion to put up the same project," he added.

Gullas' initiative came as the national
government prepared to reinforce Cebu's
infrastructure support under the Central Philippines Investment Program.

Under the program, Malacañang approved some
P60.8-billion worth of fresh public
infrastructure spending for Cebu up to 2010.

Of the amount, more than half or P33 billion
would be initially allocated for the proposed
Metro Cebu Mass Transportation System (MCMTS),
thus matching Gullas' initiative.

The MCMTS involves the construction of a modern
railway network from Talisay City to the
Municipality of Consolacion for the first phase,
and from Talisay to Carcar City and Consolacion
to Danao City for the second phase.

The system would be the country's ninth and the
first outside Metro Manila, which now has eight
LRT channels that are either fully operational,
under construction, or in the drawing boards.

Under Gullas' bill, the Department of
Transportation and Communications (DOTC) would be
required to prepare and execute a plan to
establish and operate the new LRT system.

The DOTC actually already has an initial plan to
build a US$ 1-billion LRT system for Metro Cebu.

The department earlier forged a
build-operate-transfer agreement with the AMA
Group of Holdings Corp. for the construction of a
71-kilometer, three-phased LRT system that would
run through Metro Cebu from Carcar in the south to Danao in the north.

However, project execution has been stalled, as
the DOTC has found it difficult to get lower
offers from other private contractors.

Meanwhile, the Central Philippines Investment
Program also includes P18.88 billion for Cebu's
seaports; P6.3 billion for Central Visayas' roads
and bridges; P1.9 billion for the region's
tourism infrastructure; and P749 million for airports. (PNA)

dodong

August 19th, 2007, 10:23 PM

PINOYmeat

August 20th, 2007, 03:30 AM

Find out why and how issues bugging the tourism industry can be addressed, and discover new investment opportunities from various experts in the field.

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01555.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 20th, 2007, 03:36 AM

Cebu tourism stakeholders to speak in Sun.Star forum

THE 4th Sun.Star Economic Forum (SEF) to be held on Thursday at Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, will feature panelists from the government, academe and business sectors who will give their ideas on new opportunities and industries that Cebu entrepreneurs could put their money in.

After National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) 7 Director Marlene Rodriguez unpacks the macroeconomic Philippine figures to make them more relevant to business planners in Cebu and Central Visayas, Minerva Yap, center manager of the Department of Trade and Industry 7-National Economic Research and Business Assistance Center, will give her thoughts on possible downstream industries or new products that may be formed from the complementation of existing products and industries in Cebu.

Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Francis Monera and University of San Carlos Office of Research Director Dr. Victorina H. Zosa will also be panel reactors to the Neda presentation in the morning.

In the afternoon, SM Investments Corp. director Gregory L. Domingo, who will speak on business opportunities in tourism in Cebu, will have Department of Tourism 7 Director Patria Aurora Roa, Mactan Island Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Efrain Pelaez Jr. and University of Cebu faculty member Adrian Agbon as panel reactors.

Other speakers of the SEF are Tourism Secretary Joseph Durano and Sabah’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Deputy Minister Datuk Karim Haji Bujang.

HERE (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/08/20/bus/cebu.tourism.stakeholders.to.speak.in.sun.star.forum..html)

miaka_cham

August 20th, 2007, 07:33 AM

cebu street scene.

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01554.jpg

i'm just wondering, when will these lamp posts be lighted again? it's worth millions ayt? then it's like being junked..tsk tsk..:(

ashton

August 20th, 2007, 07:40 AM

^ Oh that's too bad, I thought they're using it..

elantonio

August 20th, 2007, 10:42 AM

As always, Ayala Center Cebu is photogenic.

By the way, the Suroy Suroy Cebu, Northern Heritage Escapade is set on August 30th to September 1st. Anyone who'll attend?

For those that are interested, how much would it cost?

The Cebuano Exultor

August 20th, 2007, 01:58 PM

Once Crowne Regency opens I'm gonna go there as often as possible. :banana: It's gotta be the coolest hang-out place by then. :pepper:

slimer

August 20th, 2007, 03:02 PM

Pics taken today August 20, 2007

ACT
http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/5360/actsb1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

SM
http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/4293/sm1th2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/9394/sm2go7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img250.imageshack.us/img250/4545/sm3sg1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

rage@cebu

August 21st, 2007, 02:25 AM

diehardbisdak

August 21st, 2007, 03:58 AM

What is the name of the abandoned hotel next to SM Cebu? Why was it condemnded?

...supposedly, the hotel will carry the Sheraton brand...... and for the record, the hotel was not abandoned but it was only the agreement between Sheraton and SM went sour during Asian Finacial Crisis in the 90's....
FORTUNATELY, a month ago or so, SM Prime Holdings has closed deal with ACCOR Group whose one of the brands is Sofitel... hopefully, as reported in the news, it will be operational yet late next year....

leylander

August 21st, 2007, 04:00 AM

Grand Cenia hotel and residence

http://www.johngamer.com/cebu/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/112.jpg

25-storey residential and commercial project that occupies a 4211 sqm lot

Located along the corner of Archbishop Reyes and Solon Street, just across Cebu Business Center

Prime location since almost all major location is within its reach

the architecture of the building’s interior is mainly European in theme with clean lines that inject a “minimalist” sense to the space

commercial areas on the 1st – 3rd floors
parking areas on the basement, 4th, 5th and 6th floors
amenities and facilities are at the ground, 6th, and 7th floor. This includes
- function rooms - 3 stairwells
- swimming pool - bus parking for tourists
- coffee shop - pantry/kitchen to service function rooms
- business center, WiFi capable
- cistern tank - boiler
- backup power generator
- 2 service elevators
- 4 passenger elevators with security system
- pressurized fire exits
- individual water meters for residential condominium units
- valet parking for condotel and commercial units

Number of Rooms
432

Rate per Night
3,200.00

Occupancy
85%

Room Revenue / night
1,175,040.00

Room Revenue / month
35,251,200.00

Assuming Rate of Expenses at
65%

Condotel Area
11,187.08

Rental pool Income / sqm / month
1,102.87

Typical Area
24.27

Income / Unit / Month
26,766.71

Expected Annual Room Rate Increase
8%

Grand Cenia hotel and residence Elevator Lobby

http://www.johngamer.com/cebu/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/21.jpg

Grand Cenia Condotel Room

http://www.johngamer.com/cebu/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/31.jpg

Grand Cenia Business Center

http://www.johngamer.com/cebu/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/4.jpg

Grand Cenia Concierge

http://www.johngamer.com/cebu/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/5.jpg

grand cenia 7th floor plan

http://www.johngamer.com/cebu/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/6.jpg

grand cenia 19th and 25th floor plan

http://www.johngamer.com/cebu/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/8.jpg

from: www.johngamer.com/cebu

Sinjin P.

August 21st, 2007, 04:07 AM

better if they build a superhighway from Daan BANTAYAN to Santander... i can't find any economic benefits Cebu will get from the LRT system because it is only station to station (only benefits Metro Cebu) and Cebu's ridership is very small (the system will be bankrupt)...

we must cut travel time going to other parts of the island to entice more investors because these is what we really need... if ever we want Cebu to be progressive we must also invest our money wisely and not just waste it just for the sake of having a system that doesn't work... :cheers: let us government closer to the people in the whole island.

And for this to be a wise investment, the northern and southern tip of the proposed railway system should be connected to other Visayan islands :yes:

diehardbisdak

August 21st, 2007, 04:10 AM

ayala mall Cebu bigger than SM Cebu? correct me if im wrong:) ganda ng Ayala Cebu:banana:

...SM is way much bigger than Ayala Center.... more space will be added in SM with their on-going expansion... though, Ayala is also expanding but not as huge as SM's...

Sinjin P.

August 21st, 2007, 04:13 AM

...SM is way much bigger than Ayala Center.... more space will be added in SM with their on-going expansion... though, Ayala is also expanding but not as huge as SM's...

SM City Cebu's leasable area (before expansion) - 84,192 sqm.
Ayala Center Cebu's leasable area (before expansion) - 70,119 sqm.

SM City Cebu's leasable area (after expansion) - 101,192 sqm.
Ayala Center Cebu's leasable area (with Rustan's Building) - 77,119 sqm.
Ayala Center Cebu's leasable area (with Leisure Oasis) - 92,119 sqm.
Ayala Center Cebu's leasable area (with Annex 3) - 112,119 sqm.

;)

rage@cebu

August 21st, 2007, 04:16 AM

TGU Tower rising... blue and white crane.
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140735.jpg

i3 rising...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140739.jpg

almost done... Cebu Commercial tower.
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140741.jpg

gullas expansion...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140728.jpg

SM expansion... with SM tower hotel, Aurora tower and CIFC tower...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140732.jpg

Crown Regency Tower...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140730.jpg

citylights tower 3 dome...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140743.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140742.jpg

Ady001

August 21st, 2007, 05:38 AM

Guys, nagapangita kog house and lot nga barato sa Cebu ba. Kanang naa moy masuggest? Please PM me lang or text me... 09217773093.

richard24

August 21st, 2007, 05:46 AM

ey guys., tanong lang po., pano pumunta ng bora from cebu? kasi my friend is coming to bora from singapore., he's looking into the posibility of flying to cebu then to bora.,

dos compadres

August 21st, 2007, 06:07 AM

ey guys., tanong lang po., pano pumunta ng bora from cebu? kasi my friend is coming to bora from singapore., he's looking into the posibility of flying to cebu then to bora.,

Asian Spirit direct from Cebu to Caticlan. Cebu Pacific, Cebu to Kalibo. It's about 1.5 to 2 hours drive from Kalibo to Caticlan. 15 minutes by pumpboat from Caticlan to Bora.

richard24

August 21st, 2007, 10:55 AM

ahh., so there's a cebu-kalibo flight ng cebu pacific pala.., :) thanks., :)

slimer

August 21st, 2007, 02:33 PM

citylights tower 3 dome...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140743.jpg

the crane is smoking...:lol:

Coffee

August 21st, 2007, 03:11 PM

reancorbz84

August 21st, 2007, 04:22 PM

whew! grabeh na ka kuyaw sa cebu ron.... congratz to the cebuanos!

D'Watcher

August 21st, 2007, 04:54 PM

Cebu's progress is fast approaching, i always admire how cebu become the next alternative city of choice after manila, i really love to step my feet there and enjoy the living. It will be in my itenerary for sure the next time i go back to Manila.

chocolato1000

August 21st, 2007, 07:53 PM

keep learning from the follies of MM. ^^

ofw_cebu

August 21st, 2007, 08:29 PM

more updates fellow bisdaks . . keep them coming please.....daghan na kaayo nindot karon dah, siguro mabag o han ko kadiyot siguro kung mag suroy ko puhon inig uli . . . were we can have details on different condotels that are offered for investment purposes . . . ? ? ? similar sa Fort Boni and Makati condos ba. . . :)

marxman

August 22nd, 2007, 01:26 AM

Need more infos on condotels here in cebu... tnx...

leylander

August 22nd, 2007, 02:23 AM

@marxman... visit http://www.johngamer.com/cebu/

Onizuka01

August 22nd, 2007, 09:18 AM

Source: Sunstar Cebu

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Firm urges Cebuanos to do business through franchising

CEBUANOS who are considering small- and medium-scale business opportunities are encouraged to venture into franchising.

Rudolf Kotik, president and chief operating officer of RK Franchise Consul-tancy (RKFC), said participating in franchise expos provides a bigger chance for potential local entrepreneurs to establish linkages with franchisors.

“Franchising is growing and booming now,” Kotik told a press conference during the launching of the 8th Cebu Franchise Expo at the Neo-Neo Grill in Mabolo, Cebi City.

The three day franchise expo, in cooperation with RKFC and the Filipino International Franchise Association (Fifa), will open on Friday at the SM City Cebu Trade Hall.

Fifa is a non-profit organization that helps franchisees who have problems with their franchisors.

Expo

Kotik said 70 exhibitors, including eight franchising companies in Cebu, are joining the event.

He said this year’s expo is different from that of the previous year because of the participation of Cebu-grown party accessory and balloon maker Sparkles Balloons.

Other locally grown businesses that have ventured into franchising are Ink2Go, Laser Arts (laser engraving), Beefwich, and Gwen’z Sanwiches that, despite being Manila-based, are owned and managed by Cebuanos.

The expo will also feature businesses from other provinces like Banoks of Davao, Mama Maria of Bacolod, Cardinal Bake-shop of Surigao, Potato Madness of Bulacan and Save‘n Earn Cellshop of Bohol, among others.

Launching

Kotik said even advertisement companies like Rapid advertising and Ad and Promo Management (APM) from Davao will be launching their franchise businesses.

Apart from the increasing number of exhibitors, Kotik said the franchise expo’s success will be gauged by its ability to meet its objectives.

“All exhibitors must find what they’re looking for. In our case, more than 200 clients have developed into franchising,” he said.

Earlier Philippine Franchising Association chairperson Alegria Limjoco said franchising is the easiest way to start a business as franchisees, or those who buy the license to operate and use an established business name, get the assurance that the system of operation they are implementing has been proven to be successful. (MMM)

Onizuka01

August 22nd, 2007, 09:19 AM

Source: Sunstar Cebu

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Japanese guests’ arrival low

AN international hotel chain has blamed the lack of direct flights between Cebu and Japan for its lower-than-expected occupancy of Japanese guests.

Hilton Cebu Resort and Spa general manager Peter Hogh Pedersen said the hotel expected a significant growth in the number of Japanese guests after it hosted the Japanese delegation, which included Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, during the 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) summit in Cebu last January.

“We had high hopes after the Asean summit but sad to say, there’s not much improvement,” he said, adding that Hilton Cebu even participated in trade shows in Osaka and Tokyo, Japan.

Japanese guests account for about 20 percent of the hotel’s occupants, compared to the Koreans who make up 30 percent.

Department of Tourism 7 data shows that from January to June this year, 66,817 Japanese came to Cebu, registering a growth of almost 15 percent over the January-June 2006 figure of 58,243.

But Pedersen said Japanese tourists are probably discouraged from traveling with only four to five flights a week from Tokyo to Cebu — and six- to eight-hour travel time for those from Osaka who have to take a connecting flight to Tokyo then Cebu.

Accessibility

“With six to eight hours travel time, they might as well get a direct flight to Bali (Indonesia) or Phuket (Thailand,” he told Sun.Star Cebu.

Accessibility will remain to be the most vital factor in increasing foreign arrivals to Cebu, especially the Japanese, who are known to be heavy spenders, said Pedersen.

“They always stay at five-star hotels and spend for finer things in life, like the most expensive wine in a hotel,” he said.

Pedersen also said he will support efforts to increase direct flights from Osaka to Cebu which will cover Japan’s western coast.

Japanese from Osaka will have to take a plane to Tokyo where they will take another flight to Cebu.

In March this year, Tourism Secretary Joseph “Ace” Durano said Philippine Airlines will launch this year its Osaka-Cebu flight, which is expected to bring in more tourists from Japan’s second fastest growing outbound market.

In preparation for the possible influx of Japanese tourists, Pedersen said Hilton Cebu will hire Japanese native speakers and improve the hotel’s brochures and website to cater to this particular market segment.

These same marketing strategies are also needed to address the concerns of other foreign guests in the hotel, Pedersen said.

“We will have to look at new markets, in the meantime. It’s important not to put your eggs in one basket,” he said.

The Chinese and the Russians are considered growing markets of Cebu’s tourism industry. (MMM)

Onizuka01

August 22nd, 2007, 09:20 AM

Source: sunstar cebu

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Naga mulls tax holiday for SMEs, investors with locals as workers

THE Naga Municipal Government is planning to provide tax incentives to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that will hire town residents.

The move would encourage SMEs to prioritize residents in the hiring of workers, said Naga Mayor Valdemar Chiong.

“This would probably lessen the income of the local government unit (LGU) but what is important (is) that we can provide (more) job opportunities for the people in Naga,” he said in a mobile phone interview.

The mayor believes though that once Naga becomes a city, there would be more investors coming in, which will offset the effect of the tax holidays to SMEs.

He said SMEs that will qualify for the tax incentive are those with 80 percent of their workforce coming from Naga.

The tax incentive plan still needs the approval of the Municipal Council, though.

Chiong said he will forward the proposal to the Municipal Council shortly after the plebiscite for the town’s cityhood on Sept. 2.

He said he hopes the tax incentive program will be implemented next year.

The mayor revealed that a team is studying the mechanics of the incentive program, including the requirements for SMEs and other companies to avail themselves of the tax perks.

Among the factors to be considered are the size of the company’s workforce, amount of investment and the length of time it has been operating in the town.

The program will also have to ensure that hired residents will become regular workers and not just on a contractual basis, Chiong said.

To ensure that residents will have the skills required by companies and future investors, Chiong said the LGU will be conducting training courses.

He said he is also getting information on the type of investors that will be locating in Naga with the establishment of the SME Industrial Park in the area. (TEP)

Onizuka01

August 22nd, 2007, 09:39 AM

Software upgrade needed for security cameras – cops

By Jolene Bulambot
Cebu Daily News
Last updated 12:32pm (Mla time) 08/22/2007

Cebu City, Philippines - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) wants the security camera system installed last year in Metro Cebu upgraded before it is formally received from the contractor.

Engineer Jorge Sebastian, assistant director of the DPWH in Central Visayas (DPWH-7), said the police asked contractor Triton Communications Inc. to upgrade the system’s software that would allow images from the cameras to be enhanced to aid in investigations instead of just alerting policemen to ongoing crimes.

“We have to ask Triton to readjust their cameras to suit the purpose of the project,” Sebastian said.

The request was made after the security cameras were able to take images of robbers fleeing the La Nueva Supermart heist last week. Police, however, could not use the images to identify the robbers due to the inability of the system’s software to enhance the footage.

Sebastian said the camera system, installed throughout Metro Cebu for the 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit last January, is almost fully paid.

Of the P83 million bill for the project, only P8.3 million is still needed to be paid by the government.

Sebastian said the balance will not be released until Triton completes the software upgrade.

He said the Philippine National Police (PNP), which will own the camera system once it is fully paid, will inspect the system and the upgrades before the final payment is made.

“The PNP have the technical capacity to determine the efficiency of the cameras,” Sebastian said.

Chief Superintendent Ronald Roderos, deputy director for administration of the police in Central Visayas, said the footage of the fleeing La Nueva robbers had been saved, and may be enhanced later when the upgraded software had been installed.

“But as of now, our hands our tied,” Roderos said.

Chief Inspector Randy Pateno, who is in charge of the operations of the security cameras, said the image enhancement software might cost the government almost P1 million each.

He said the camera system already in place should be compatible with the additional software.

“But until we have the added software, the police can’t do anything to enhance the images,” Pateno said.

marxman

August 22nd, 2007, 11:33 AM

are there condotels i could invest on... tapos low lng yung monthly na pay??? how much is the down payment for that?

marxman

August 22nd, 2007, 11:43 AM

how about infos on mortgaged house, lots, condo units??? where can we find them??? tnx...

rage@cebu

August 22nd, 2007, 12:02 PM

habagatcentral1

August 22nd, 2007, 12:05 PM

ey guys., tanong lang po., pano pumunta ng bora from cebu? kasi my friend is coming to bora from singapore., he's looking into the posibility of flying to cebu then to bora.,

Aside from Asian Spirit you could also take the bus. From the South Bus Terminal take a Ceres bus to Bacolod (I think the barge crosses from Toledo to San Carlos in Negros Occidental), then you could proceed to Iloilo then onward to Caticlan. Don't know how much this costs or how long it takes but maybe it's cheaper than the plane... maybe. :p

But I would advise against bringing tourists to the South Bus Terminal because it is a wretched, wretched place.

P500 (approx) will be the rate from CEB-BCD including the ferry rate. Usually, its 6-8 hour trip, depending on where will you be exactly plying. If via Cadiz-Escalante, then it will take long. Via DonSalvador (only direct trip is at 5AM) will be only 2 hours from San Carlos City.

Then P150-P200 fare for fastcraft from BCD-ILO. From ILO-MPH (Caticlan), its an estimated P250 for a fare at the bus and a four hour ride via Kalibo.

Another is that you can take CebuPacific from CEB-KBO during MWFS and CEB-ILO daily.
Another is AsianSpirit directly to Caticlan.

Another is taking the ferry from CEB-ILO through an overnight trip. It is about P750-P800 in range.

Jimbu

August 22nd, 2007, 12:38 PM

Alvin hits Tom’s administration regarding crimes, Capitol issue (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Local%20News&p=52&type=2&sec=70&aid=20070820198)
The Freeman
Tuesday, August 21, 2007

Alvin Garcia, former mayor of Cebu City, yesterday criticized the city government’s capability against crimes and its handling of relationship with the provincial government.

Garcia, who attended a launching of the Movement for the Protection of People’s Rights group, assailed city authorities for failing to prevent the robbery of La Nueva Supermarket, which was just a few meters from City Hall.

Mayor Tomas Osmeña must act on better measures to improve the city’s peace and order situation while doing away with the so-called vigilantes, said Garcia.

It was not proper for Osmeña to alarm the public by warning financial institutions that the robbery groups would strike again anytime.

“What kind of leader is (Osmeña)? Why alarm the people that more are to come? We have a breakdown in the peace order…criminals have gone bolder, it happened close to the seat of power…we should invest in intelligence,” Garcia said.

Osmeña earlier blamed the businessmen for ignoring the city’s offer for them to invest in security and alarm system that would quickly alert authorities on robberies.

The mayor said the city already spent P2 million for the Mobile Alarm Remote System, a modern technology but which businessmen refused to subscribe because they said it was just a waste of money.

Garcia said that a better solution to the problem of criminality is a “just a humane society” and more opportunities for employment.

“Be good to the people…maybe a just a humane society and more job opportunities can solve criminality…criminality thrives in societies that are hopeless,” he said.

Garcia said that one venue that is full of employment opportunities is the Ciudad project of the provincial government.

The city made a wrong move in “preventing Ciudad from opening” because the project could provide 20,000 jobs to the Cebuanos, he said.

The best thing for the city to do now is to sit down with the province and talk things over. “We are quarreling with many people, and it’s not doing us any good,” Garcia said in deference to the present rift between Osmeña and Governor Gwen Garcia.

Ciudad is the Capitol’s “city within a city” project that is set to be an upscale commercial-tourist spot on a 2.8-hectare site along Gov. Cuenco Avenue.

The city had so far technically stopped the project when the city council approved a resolution to put on hold any planned development along the Banilad area pending a traffic impact study.

Councilor Augustus Pe Jr. said it served as warning to Capitol for its “unfair and sudden change of terms” in the negotiations of the land swap plan between the city and the province. — Joeberth M. Ocao/RAE

rage@cebu

August 22nd, 2007, 12:45 PM

TheAvenger

August 22nd, 2007, 01:09 PM

A taste of Kadangyan's ethno-tribal rock music

http://inquirer.promos.yahoo.com/inq/index.php?func_mode=play&vid=959203

eUkLid

August 22nd, 2007, 05:40 PM

words from a convicted corrupt city mayor... unsa kha to.o niya sa mga Cebu City residents, BOGO? pareha man gud cla sa iya cousin nga hangtud krn wla ghapon khbaw kung pila ang cost sa ilang "world class convention center"

hinuon iyaha man gud na ang SUNSTAR... hahay

hahay during his term na solve ba niya ang mga crime problems? iyahay lang ni silag palabwanay sa ilang mga "abilidad"

Coffee

August 22nd, 2007, 05:42 PM

He's right though. Tomas Osmeña is an asshole.

Jimbu

August 22nd, 2007, 06:39 PM

Council authorizes Tom to sell 31hectares of SRP (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Local%20News&p=52&type=2&sec=70&aid=20070822227)
The Freeman
Thursday, August 23, 2007

The Cebu City Council yesterday authorized Mayor Tomas Osmeña to sell 31.9 hectares of lots at the South Road Properties so the city could earn an amount of close to P4 billion to finance more projects.

The city legislators unanimously approved the resolution of councilor Joey Daluz, III to allow the mayor to dispose of properties through a public bidding and hope that such would be the start of SRP’s development.

Mayor Osmeña, who is now on an official trip to India to study the country’s clean and cheap airconditioning systems, said these properties are situated immediately after the viaduct or just across barangay Mambaling, a location he described to be “advantageous to buyers”.

The city would construct signage at the SRP worth P5.2 million and would spend P2.6 million for the landscape at the end of the viaduct, on the right portion of the SRP upon reaching the reclaimed properties from the city.

Osmeña said the properties located at the back where the welcome signage is to be constructed are the same 30 hectares of lots that are first to be sold through bidding.

It was learned from Daluz that the lots were already titled and registered with the Land Registration Authority under the name of the City of Cebu on September 22, 2005.

The mayor said any licensed real estate brokers who could help the city sell the lots at the SRP would be given a two-percent commission out of the proceeds of the sale.

If sale of lots is not done through a broker, the mayor said the commission intended for a broker would be donated to the Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation or to any charitable institution.

As of now, not even a single square meter of the 295 hectares of the reclaimed lots was sold, although an international filmmaker - the Bigfoot - has rented a two-hectare lot for only 40 US cents or about P26 for every square meter.

The city needs P1.7 million everyday to pay for its loan from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation.

Tinago barangay captain Joel Garganera earlier said the city could not sell the SRP lots to the public because until now the property is still being owned by the national government.

He claimed that the SRP lots are still not owned by the city because when President Arroyo issued a proclamation order transferring the ownership of the SRP to Cebu City, she made it without congressional authority. – Rene U. Borromeo/MEEV

Jimbu

August 22nd, 2007, 07:14 PM

200 families face eviction (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/08/23/news/200.families.face.eviction.html)
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Sun.Star

OVER 200 families in Barangay Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City are facing eviction amid the plan by business tycoon Lucio Tan to use his 40-hectare property for a community village fitted with two hotels, a supermarket and a department store.

Barangay Captain Angel Rodriguez admitted that Tan acquired the property that stretches in five sitios and nearly half of Punta Engano’s land area three years ago. But engineers and representatives from a Manila-based developer came last month to notify him about the intention of the businessman to use the property.

“I am a little bit worried, but I got the assurance of Congresswoman (Nerissa) Ruiz that she will help me on the problem,” Rodrigo said.

He said that before Tan starts the project, he will try to convince the businessman to help him develop a relocation site for the affected families.

The project is estimated to cost more than P1 billion. Although it will dislocate many families, Rodriguez welcomes it because it can turn Punta Engaño into a rich ba-rangay, like Barangays Poblacion, Basak and Pusok.

Benefits

“We will have more benefits on the economic side besides hindi naman namin pababayaan yong nga taong ma-dislocate (we will help those who will be evicted),” he said.

Punta Engaño is in the eastern tip of Lapu-Lapu and is among the low income earning barangays. Rodriguez, who is a strong political ally of former vice mayor Norma Patalinjug, has been serving the barangay for more than 10 years.

He said that with two hotels, a supermarket and department stores, tourists and local residents will no longer have to go to Pusok or Poblacion. (AIV)

marxman

August 23rd, 2007, 02:43 AM

yep he's an asshole id rather have an asshole tomas than an asshole alvin...

rage@cebu

August 23rd, 2007, 02:48 AM

LED screen... some old fotos. :) showcasing the city of cebu.
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1110846.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1110850.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1110847.jpg

rage@cebu

August 23rd, 2007, 02:51 AM

Cebu's provincial capitol...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1100747.jpg

Cebu's Malacanang... a typical customs building.
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1010051.jpg

rage@cebu

August 23rd, 2007, 03:08 AM

flickr finds... one of most awarded pics. :cheers: foto by: joannecurlah pic from shangri-la cebu...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/1184048233_498608a8ec_b1.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/1183953015_9e3fbf0fb3_b1.jpg

Wishbone7054

August 23rd, 2007, 04:02 AM

timz06

August 23rd, 2007, 09:10 AM

proposed three storey residential appartment along Salinas Drive extension

http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u9/timz06/Image04-1.jpg

:cheers:

Sinjin P.

August 23rd, 2007, 10:15 AM

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/5209/etonmactanzh0.jpg

ETON CITY MACTAN

Formerly known as the Coral Reef Resort, this 34-hectare tourism estate is home to residential towers, a five-star resort-hotel, luxury garden villas, condotels, and various commercial, institutional, and leisure-retirement developments. It also hosts the largest coastline in Mactan Island (Cebu), an inner lake, and a cove.

http://www.eton.com.ph/etonmactan.htm

achernar

August 23rd, 2007, 10:58 AM

hmmm... so September 2 diay ang plebiscite sa Naga...

Sinjin P.

August 23rd, 2007, 11:05 AM

^ Nice! :applause:

Wow, 4 plebiscites this year huh (Bogo, Carcar, Naga, Lapu-Lapu) and the 3 of them are for the conversion of municipalities into component cities. :)

Jimbu

August 23rd, 2007, 11:12 AM

Capitol courts Chinese bizmen into investing (http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/news/view_article.php?article_id=84243)
RECLAMATION, TRANSAXIAL HIGHWAY TOUTED

By Jolene Bulambot
Cebu Daily News
Last updated 12:23pm (Mla time) 08/23/2007

CEBU, Philippines - A delegation of 20 Chinese businessmen visited Cebu yesterday and met with Cebu provincial officials over the possibility of investing in the province.

The Wenzhou trade and investment delegation were treated to lunch at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC), during which provincial officials showed a video presentation of what Cebu had to offer.

“The delegation was so impressed with the presentation and the preparation by the Province of Cebu for their visit here,” said Ambassador Carlos Chan, the Philippines' trade and investment envoy to China.

Chan, who led the delegates in their visit to Cebu, said the chances of the businessmen investing in Cebu was “very high.”

The delegation, composed of 20 executives of Chinese companies, were briefed on the economic, industrial and tourism activities of the province.

They were presented with several potential investment opportunities in Cebu, including several reclamation areas.

They were also presented with an overview of the Transaxial Highway – a proposed 220-km, four-lane highway that would run through the length of the island.

Vice Gov. Gregorio Sanchez Jr., said the hopes of the provincial officials were high that the Chinese businessmen would invest in the highway, which would not only cut travel time between towns, but also provide access to potential economic zones.

The Cebu provincial government also plans to establish wind power generation facilities in certain towns.

In an interview after the meeting, Chan said that the businessmen wanted to see for themselves the reclamation projects in Cebu, including those in Cebu City, Mandaue City and the town of Cordova.

The delegates are scheduled to visit Tagbilaran City in Bohol today to study potential investments there.

Before coming to Cebu, the delegates met with Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim earlier this week.

Jimbu

August 23rd, 2007, 11:18 AM

Tomas O. given go signal to sell 32 hectares of SRP (http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/news/view_article.php?article_id=84238)

By Doris C. Bongcac
Cebu Daily News
Last updated 12:24pm (Mla time) 08/23/2007

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena can now dispose through a public bidding, close to 32-hectares of the 300-hectare South Road Properties.

This developed after the Cebu City Council gave Osmena the authority to market the lots and to “negotiate for an in behalf of the City of Cebu with any interested and qualified parties for the leasing or joint venture agreements of any of the properties in the South Road Properties”.

Councilor Jose Daluzsaid that with the council's authority, mayor Osmeña can now “maximize and efficiently market the properties (SRP)”.

“The City of Cebu has completed the construction of the 300-ha. South Reclamation Project which at present is considered as a prime property that will cater to investments like commercial, industrial and Information Technology related business,” said Daluz.

If sold even at a price of P12, 000 per sq. meters, Cebu City will earn at least P3 billion for the disposal of the 32-ha. property, said Osmeña in an earlier interview.

Mayor Osmeña who is now in a foreign trip said in an earlier interview that he wanted the 32-ha. lot bidded out to interested buyers before the year ends so that he could already start collecting proceeds from its sales next year.

Whatever revenues he will raise from its sales will be spent for the city's debt servicing, the implementation of development projects at the SRP and for other city initiated projects that will include his plan to open up an access road from the South Coastal Road to Alta Vista in Pardo.

The remaining 268-ha. of the 300-ha. SRP will be set for possible joint venture developments, he said.

While Osmeña is now in discussion with interested investors, he said that he is only waiting for the council to authorize him to already formalize negotiations for the disposal of the 32-ha. property that is up for sale.

Daluz submitted during the council session yesterday afternoon, a resolution authorizing Osmeña to already entertain possible buyers. It was approved by the Council.

betro

August 23rd, 2007, 11:51 AM

Cebu real estate boom driven by BPOs — Colliers

Business process outsourcing (BPO) continues to drive up demand for space in Cebu City, property consultancy firm Colliers International Philippines, Inc. said.

The Pioneer Center, the newest office space in Cebu

In a three-page report, Colliers sai d an estimated 80,000 square meters are currently being occupied by at least 17 BPO companies operating in Cebu.

This, as rental costs and labor availability have become issues in Metro Manila, it said.

Colliers said the office lease rate in Cebu City currently averages P313 per square meter per month, lower than the P1,018 per square meter per month office lease rate for the premium grade segment in Manila.

Asiatown IT Park is being transacted at an average of P413 per square meter per month while Ayala Land, Inc. project Cebu Business Park is on par with P399 per square meter per month.

The firm added, "the increasing vacancy in the downtown area coupled with insufficient floorplate and amenities has led to a rate of P278 per square meter, about 11% below the market average.

"Compared to master-planned developments, rents are currently at a 30% discount."

BPO firms that have branches in Cebu are eTelecare, Western Wats Philippines, NCR, TeleTech, 7/24 Care Inc., Xlibris, SYKES, Support Save, ePerformax, WSI Technologies, Inc., Innodata XML, Vanilla Networks, SPI, Accenture, Bigfoot Studios, People Support and Convergys.

Colliers noted office vacancy in Cebu City averaged 7.4%. Asiatown IT Park had the lowest vacancy of less than 1% due to increasing demand from the BPO industry.

The Cebu Business Park was nearing 7% while the downtown area was recorded at 16.4%.

"Variations in vacancy could be due to Asiatown IT Park is a natural choice for BPO occupiers due to its Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) IT Park status," it said.

The 24-hectare Asiatown IT Park was developed by listed Cebu Property Ventures and Development Corp., a subsidiary of Cebu Holdings, Inc. with the provincial government.

Colliers estimated the stock of office accommodation in Cebu City at 161,294 square meters.

It noted the last building to be completed was Pioneer Center in Cebu Business Park in the second quarter with an aggregate useable space of nearly 5,000 square meters.

"Since the 1990’s the stock of office space in Cebu has expanded by a compounded growth rate of 10% per annum. Office accommodation has traditionally been located in the downtown area. However, congestion and infrastructure concerns have led to expansion in master-planned developments like Cebu Business Park and Asiatown IT Park," it said.

Colliers noted a disparity in office space in Cebu in terms of quality. Grade A space accounts for only 36% of the stock at less than 60,000 square meters.

Office spaces are considered prime and grade A if located in prime or more luxurious buildings in key central business districts, if they have contiguous floor space of at least 2,000 square meters, if they are accredited by the PEZA, and if they have facilities and amenities required by big companies.

"To a certain extent, this will be alleviated with developments under construction. In the next 18 months, there are nine office developments slated to complete and would provide an additional 102,812 square meters of office accommodation. To date, this is the most significant amount of space to complete in the Cebu office market," Colliers said.

While the Cebu Holdings Center was the first building completed in 1993, the consultancy firm noted it was not until 1997 when lot owners started to add into the office stock.

It cited there are currently 10 buildings with an aggregate office space of nearly 57,000 square meters. Commercial land value is currently pegged at P29,500 per square meter. — Ruby Anne M. Rubio

betro

August 23rd, 2007, 11:55 AM

Group infuses $250M in power plant

A consortium of companies has committed to invest $250 million to expand and to modernize the facilities of the Toledo Power Plant in Cebu to address the foreseen higher power demand in the province.

The group is composed of Global Business Power Corp.; the Aboitiz family; Garcia-owned Vivant Corp.; and Taiwan-based Formosa group of companies.

Global Power, which is owned by the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co., will hold majority interest in the project.

"The consortium aims not only to provide adequate capacity, but also to ensure reliable and quality supply of power at competitive cost in the Visayas region," the consortium said in a statement.

"The modernization program is in progress while the expansion project will break ground first quarter of 2008 for completion in early 2010," it added.

The Toledo power plant supplies electricity to Visayan Electric Company, Inc., which is owned by the Aboitizes, and Cebu 3 Electric Cooperative, Inc.

The facility consists of a 70-megawatt (MW) coal plant and a 40-MW diesel plant.

The Formosa Group of Companies is the biggest private enterprise in Taiwan with a total capacity of more than 14,000 MW.

It has coal plants in Taiwan, United States, China, the Philippines and Vietnam.

Meanwhile, the Aboitiz family has interests in power, shipping, food and banking sectors.

It owns power assets through Aboitiz Power Corp., which engages in power generation and distribution.

Vivant is a listed holding firm that is engaged in diesel importation.

The group noted that power consumption in Cebu has been growing at about 9% per year.

"With the reopening of the Atlas Mining in Toledo City and the expansion of the Tsuneishi ship building facility in the neighboring Balamban town, additional power will be required in the area in the next three years," the group said.

Listed firm Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corp. recently resumed mining operations after a 13-year halt caused by weak copper prices, huge debts and floods.

Tsuneishi Heavy Industries is into shipbuilding and is one of the five locators at the West Cebu Industrial Park, developed by the Aboitiz-led Cebu Industrial Park Developers, Inc. in Balamban.

The Energy department expects demand for power in the Visayas to exceed supply in 2009 if no additional capacity comes onstream.

Visayas has a dependable capa-city of 1,514 megawatts.

In another development, two ranking officials of state-owned energy firms swapped positions.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, the Philippine National Oil Co.-Energy Development Corp. (PNOC-EDC) announced that its chairman, Antonio M. Cailao, has resigned from his post to join mother company PNOC as president.

He will be replacing concurrent PNOC head Pedro A. Aquino, Jr.

Mr. Aquino, meanwhile, has been appointed as PNOC-EDC chairman, a source from the parent company who declined to be named said.

Officials would not say why the Palace decided to swap the positions of Messrs. Aquino and Cailao.

The source, however, said it had nothing to do with the parent company’s reported opposition to the sale of PNOC-EDC’s 40% stake which is currently held by the government.

"The [PNOC] board has been supportive of the privatization efforts of the government," the source said.

PNOC-EDC is tasked to administer the country’s geothermal sources. It has facilities in Leyte, Luzon, Negros and Mindanao comprising a total installed capacity of 1,148 megawatts.

PNOC supervises the activities of its five subsidiaries, namely the PNOC-EDC, PNOC-Exploration Corp., the PNOC-Alternative Fuels Corp., PNOC-Shipping and Transport Corp. and PNOC-Development and Management Corp. — ADBR

habagatcentral1

August 23rd, 2007, 12:15 PM

Cebu real estate boom driven by BPOs — Colliers

Business process outsourcing (BPO) continues to drive up demand for space in Cebu City, property consultancy firm Colliers International Philippines, Inc. said.

I'm also hoping that with the rise of BPOs in Cebu, the real estate industry may also venture in low cost residences so that the employees of the said BPO and due to high influx of immigrants streaming to the Metro.

SleMarKen

August 23rd, 2007, 12:46 PM

Capitol courts Chinese bizmen into investing (http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/news/view_article.php?article_id=84243)
RECLAMATION, TRANSAXIAL HIGHWAY TOUTED

They were also presented with an overview of the Transaxial Highway – a proposed 220-km, four-lane highway that would run through the length of the island.

Vice Gov. Gregorio Sanchez Jr., said the hopes of the provincial officials were high that the Chinese businessmen would invest in the highway, which would not only cut travel time between towns, but also provide access to potential economic zones.

I thought that the talks with a Malaysian investor for the transaxial highway was a done deal.

animasola

August 23rd, 2007, 12:52 PM

^^Mao lagi... may unta 6-lanes na lang himuon oi. :D

Jimbu

August 23rd, 2007, 01:36 PM

I thought that the talks with a Malaysian investor for the transaxial highway was a done deal.

Capitol should ask the national government 50-50% sharing of the cost and considering the province cash surplus they can implement this project with national government help. This maybe a good project but if no BOT investors interested nothing will happen.

slimer

August 23rd, 2007, 02:01 PM

I think the group from Malaysia will construct the trans-axial hiway and the province will look for investors to fund it.

slimer

August 23rd, 2007, 02:01 PM

Sumilon Island (Cebu)

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/2208/sumilon1pd1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/3174/sumilon2hh2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/4290/sumilon3te0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/364/sumilon4jz6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

tj_brewed

August 23rd, 2007, 02:43 PM

I love Cebu because......

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a340/tj_brewed/CEBU/sancarlos.jpg

...it's picturesque!

PINOYmeat

August 23rd, 2007, 07:24 PM

a well lit walkway for commuters using a PUBLIC vehicle terminal (U/C lexmark's R&D, seen at the background along with cebu holdings and park tower condominium)

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01570.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 23rd, 2007, 07:39 PM

insular life building

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01581.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01580.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 23rd, 2007, 07:40 PM

inside rajah park hotel

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01587.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 23rd, 2007, 07:41 PM

the rivergate

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01582.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 23rd, 2007, 07:42 PM

casino filipino mural at rajah park hotel

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01586.jpg

leylander

August 24th, 2007, 02:42 AM

OT: Malu Fernandez has issued a statement (apology)! hehehe. wala lang. =)

diehardbisdak

August 24th, 2007, 02:57 AM

sugbuanon

August 24th, 2007, 04:48 AM

Durano seeks immediate expansion of MCIAA for 1M tourists by 2012

GOVERNMENT should start to expand the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) now if it wants to attract more tourists to Cebu, Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said.

The MCIA already exceeded its capacity last year and with the government’s efforts to increase tourist arrivals, the airport expansion should start now, he told industry players yesterday.

Durano made a presentation before stakeholders of the tourism industry in yesterday’s Sun.Star Economic Forum, and he said that the airport terminal already exceeded its capacity of 2.5 million.

Considering that his department targets one million foreign tourist arrivals in Cebu for 2012, on top of the domestic tourists, he said the terminal should have a capacity of 4.5 million or almost double the present capacity.

Now

“It is imperative that Mactan airport starts expanding today,” Durano said.

But Airport General Manager Danilo Augusto Francia said the combined capacity of MCIAA’s domestic and international terminals is 4.5 million people.

He made the clarification when asked for his reaction to Durano’s presentation at the forum.

Francia said they are now completing the terms of reference for the terminal expansion project.

The plan to improve the domestic and international terminals started with the proposal to construct two additional boarding bridges and tubes.

At least P60 million was allocated by MCIAA for the bridges and tubes that will protect passengers from rain or heat.

In his presentation, Durano showed how 2007 is considered a “monumental” year for Philippine tourism.

Gainer

For the first time, the country will be hosting more than three million foreign tourists based on arrivals from January to June.

In terms of tourist spending, the DOT is looking at some $3 billion or about P150 billion to be infused into the economy.

Cebu, which he considers a “primary gainer” of the country’s good tourism performance, will attract 500,000 foreign
tourists this year and will gain close to $1 billion in tourism receipts and close to 77,000 jobs.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) targets one million foreign tourists by 2012, which he said is “doable.”

To ensure this, Durano sees the need to promote Cebu in “high-growth and emerging markets.”

He cited that at present, Cebu’s foreign tourists are mostly from Korea, Japan and the United States so it’s time for Cebu to target China, Russia and India. (Indian tourists are the highest spenders in Singapore.)

Seeds

Aside from broadening the market base, Durano is proposing that Cebu also widens its product base by promoting Cebu as a destination for international meetings and as a “second home” destination.

He explained that being a second home destination, it does not mean serving as home for retirees but providing the rich people from cold countries a place to go to during the winter months.

Since not all hotel and resort rooms are good enough to be marketed internationally, Durano said private businesses will not go wrong in investing on this aspect.

He also sees the need to increase the number of direct flights to other countries and to make them regular. Improvements in airports outside Manila are also being pursued.

Aside from improving infrastructure, he said tourism-related courses must also be relevant to the needs of the industry. On this, the DOT will coordinate with the Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education Skills Authority.

“We can only harvest what we sow and sow we must. As we lay the seeds for the future growth of tourism in Cebu, the environment for tourism development has never been as ripe as it is today,” said Durano. (JPM/EOB)

sugbuanon

August 24th, 2007, 04:51 AM

Cebu ripe for tourism: Ace

A RECORD three million foreign tourists are projected to visit the Philippines this year, if the arrivals trend from January to June continues, making 2007 a potentially “monumental year,” Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said yesterday.

“In terms of tourist spending, apart from government receipts, we are looking at close to US$3 billion (about P150 billion) to be pumped into the economy,” Durano told participants at the Sun.Star Economic Forum 2007 yesterday at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel.

Cebuano entrepreneurs can push tourism further, said the former congressman, who appealed for support for the Cebu Tourism Vision.

Its target: attract one million foreign tourists to the province by 2012, which Durano admits would mean performing “at the higher end of the possible growth rate.” In the past three years, foreign arrivals in Cebu have grown between 10 and 13 percent. To hit its target, barely five years away, Cebu would have to draw in 13.25 percent more tourists every year.

He said it’s high time tourism players focused on high-growth emerging markets like China, Russia and India.

“I am confident that just by broadening our market base, we can hit our targets… (but) we also have to broaden the product base of Cebu. With the new business hotels and the Cebu International Convention Center, it’s about time Cebu promoted itself as a destination for international meetings,” said Durano.

Koreans top Cebu tourism market

KOREANS continue to dominate foreign arrivals in Cebu in the first half of the year, according to data from the Department of Tourism (DOT) 7.

Korean nationals visiting the province grew 58.43 percent from January to June this year, accounting for 37.64 percent in total visitor arrivals in the province.

In an interview with Sun.Star Cebu, Tourism Undersecretary Phineas Alburo said Cebu, and the rest of the country, continues to enjoy influx of Koreans, particularly the younger generation, who come first as tourists and then later decide to stay for several months to enhance their English proficiency in English-as-a-second-language (ESL) schools.

“Tourism in Cebu is still booming. You see foreigners everywhere in the province, especially in beach resorts and malls,” Alburo said.

Overall visitor arrival in Cebu grew 23.87 percent, totaling 748,006, in the first half of the year compared to the same period in 2006.

Total foreign arrivals reached 305,950 this year from 219,331 in January-June 2006 while domestic travelers increased to 442,056 from 384,530.

The Japanese and Americans are still the second and third top markets, respectively.

Japanese arrivals rose 14.72 percent from 58,243 in the first half of 2006 to 66,817 in the same period this year.

Americans coming to Cebu increased to 34,898, a 28.55 percent jump from 27,147 last year.

Europeans are considered a potential growth market for tourism because of their tendency to stay longer and their spending habits.

A total of 33,157 Europeans flocked to Cebu from January to June this year. Those from the United Kingdom topped the list with 6,695 tourists, followed by 6,391 Germans.

Alburo said the DOT 7 continues to intensify tourism marketing strategies through tourism missions in Europe.

He admitted, though, that improving accessibility — through increasing the number of international flights to Cebu and improving road and transport systsm — is a vital factor in increasing foreign arrivals.

The DOT 7 data also revealed that the number of visitors from the Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) region increased 90 percent in the first half of the year.

Asean tourists in the first six months of this year grew to 8,645 from 4,550 last year. The bulk of these arrivals are from Singapore with 4,335, followed by Malaysia and Thailand.

The number of Chinese tourists, perceived as one of the priority market for tourism, more than doubled to 6,863 this year from 3,268 in 2006.

More Chinese visitors, particularly from mainland China, are expected to visit Cebu as China Southern Airlines opened four chartered and regular direct and indirect flights from Shanghai to Cebu every week.

sugbuanon

August 24th, 2007, 04:56 AM

Dentists want to be part of RP medical tourism

AS government and industry try to position Cebu as a medical tourism destination, local dentists expressed their intentions to become part of the development.

A group of local dentists said that by improving their facilities and capabilities, Cebu’s position to become a hub for medical and dental tourism is not far from reality.

Dr. Andrea Arancillo, a periodontologist, said that apart from medical treatments, a lot of foreign patients flock to Cebu for dental care such as dental implants, periodontal surgery and multiple tooth extractions, among others.

“Foreigners have a low threshold for pain,” she said, adding that this is why some foreign patients undergo deep sedation when they have their gums and teeth treated here.

Dr. Gaston Batiller, who specializes in restorative dentistry, said that while he sees potentials in the Philippines’ dental tourism industry, the country lags behind Thailand and Singapore in terms of government support and acquisition of modern equipment.

Support

“In these countries, their facilities are (technologically) advanced because their government is supportive. Here, if we want to get dental scans for example, it’s too expensive. In Thailand, they can get it through tax incentives,” he told Sun.Star Cebu.

Arancillo said the trend in more developed countries is the development of dental hospitals.

While medical and dental tourism in Thailand and Singapore continue to develop, generating more dollar revenues, medical practitioners in the Philippines continue to fill up their “wish list,” said Batiller.

He is optimistic though that with the industry prodding government to see the benefits of medical and dental tourism, the Philippines will become a preferred destination among foreign patients.

This is not only because medical and dental treatment is more affordable here, but also because of the pool of world-class Filipino doctors, nurses and dentists.

To be able to take advantage of future developments in medical tourism, 23 doctors, including Arancillo and Batiller, and businessmen formed a consortium to establish the multi-million peso Dental Implant and Multi-disciplinary Oral Care (Di-moc) center.

Dimoc, located on Don Gil Garcia St., Cebu City, conducts dental implantation, periodontal surgery, endodontic therapy and oral prophylaxis, among others. The clinic is equipped with operating and recovery rooms and x-ray machines.

It is like a “one-stop shop” for dental needs and is the first in Visayas and Mindanao, said Dr. Clarissa Jane Fidellaga-Pe, who specializes in orthodentics or oral surgery.

The facility offers convenience and safety to patients who will no longer have to go to different places to undergo various treatments, said Arancillo.

Sinjin P.

August 24th, 2007, 06:03 AM

Sinjin P.

August 24th, 2007, 06:27 AM

Cebu to lead drive to lure tourists–DOT
(http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/0824&252007/headlines08.html)
By Marichu Mascarinas Echica
Special to BusinessMirror

CEBU CITY—Calling Cebu a “poster destination” because Cebu is always in posters that attract tourists to come and visit the Philippines, Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said Thursday Cebu is the one place in the country that is getting more tourists, both foreign and local, than any other destination in the country.

Speaking before participants from both the private and government sectors at the annual Sun Star Economic Forum held at the Marco Polo Hotel in Nivel Hills with the theme “Cebu Tourism: Moving Forward,” Durano listed two steps to keep Cebu a major player in the industry and realize his vision of having one million foreign tourists by 2012.

One, he said, was to promote Cebu in high-growth and emerging markets. If traditionally, Cebu’s highest foreign arrivals were Korea, Japan and the US, then we should also tap emerging markets such as China, Taiwan, India, Germany and Russia, he said. As initial efforts toward that goal, direct Shanghai (China)/Cebu flights were established; as well as direct flights to Russia for the first three months of the year. The target should be to regularize these flights, he said. India, too, is an untapped market. According to data from Singapore, which gets more than half a million Indian tourists, Indians have the highest spending habit among all their foreign tourists.

The second strategy, said Durano, is to promote Cebu as a destination for international meetings and as a second home for rich tourists. The Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) and several first-class resorts and hotels can serve as more than adequate venues for international meetings. The point would be to increase the construction of these infrastructure that meet international standards. As to promoting it as a “second home away from home”, Durano said he did not mean retirement homes. He meant vacation homes or second homes these rich people build as alternatives to their other home or homes located in cold climates. In Cebu, they could have homes with a “resort feel” or tropical ambience and it is cheaper too.

In other words, Cebu is a “value for money” destination.

To emphasize his point that Cebu is indeed the destination that leads, Durano announced he is bringing to Cebu for the first time the Philippine Travel Exchange(traditionally held in Manila) because all the major markets in Europe and Asia are sending, also for the first time, their travel buyers.

Sinjin P.

August 24th, 2007, 06:33 AM

Amorita: an unspoiled paradise in Bohol
(http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/0824&252007/economy05.html)
By Louise M. Francisco
Senior Researcher

BOHOL—After the successes of Microtel in Baguio in 2003 and in Boracay last year, the idea of venturing into a fully-owned, one-hectare cliff resort in Bohol under the brand name Amorita is the most strategic move for Hernandez-Del Pilar Group of Companies to continue its venture into the tourism and hospitality business with the support of Paramount Property Management Co., a Phinma company. Paramount is managing Amorita.

The idea of Amorita started a few years back when two children of the Hernandez family decided to strike it out on their own, independent from their parents, and asked permission to buy a lot and do business in Panglao, Bohol.

“I thought they will just buy 300 sq m of land, but when they brought us here, we can’t see the edge and told ourselves, ‘Who would live in this place?’” Amorita managing director Marivic del Pilar said in amazement.

Located on the balcony of Alona beach in barangay Tawala, Amorita offers a perfect site for hibernation and melting the stress from the busy lifestyles in the metropolis.

Since this unspoiled paradise is serviced by major flight carriers and travel and tour companies, how to come here is not much of a problem. Travel to this little haven takes an hour-and-a-half from Manila by plane and 30 minutes via land transport from the Tagbilaran airport.

Fine facilities

THE resort has six cosmopolitan-designed ocean-view villas and eight garden-view villas that will allow intimate visitors and honeymooners to feel the breeze from the sea while lying on a synthetic rattan recliner near a Jacuzzi.

Each room is fully air-conditioned with floor area of 150 sq m and boasts of a comfortable king-size bed, flat-screen television for entertainment, stock of wine in a minibar, a soothing veranda to gaze at the morning’s mesmerizing sunrise, a private landscape garden where colorful butterflies are fluttering and one can hear the chirping of birds from a distance, and other standard amenities.

For the excursionists in groups, 20 inviting de luxe rooms are provided.

Its infinity swimming pool is the most high-end facility loved by many of its occupants. Above the water is a platform of eight recliners that can soothe one’s back while tirelessly stargazing at nighttime, or it’s also an ideal site for watching the sunset in the afternoon amid the gentle flow of waves that kiss the shores.

Amorita’s cozy pavilion faces the long stretch of Alona Beach, where one can while away time sitting in rattan chairs and tables. Adjacent to it is a conference hall for business conferences and product presentations.

Healthy sumptuous food for the guests are masterly prepared by a chef and courteously served by the local community crews.

According to Rockly Jorolan, general manager, Amorita derived its name from the Spanish words amor, which means love, and rita, which means small. “For us, Amorita is like a baby, a small love, but its uppermost strategic site surrounded by numerable tourist spots in the entire Bohol will be its nurturer in order to grow.”

More than accommodation

Countryside tour, among Bohol’s main attractions, is also offered by Amorita to further lure visitors.

Among the finest views are the man-made forest, where small and huge mahogany trees are growing alongside roads; the Chocolate Hills called by Boholanos as their peanut Kisses; the Loboc Museam and Church; the stage of Loboc choir, which sings like angels in harmony; the Loboc River, where floating boat-restaurants cruise smoothly after diners have eaten and have been serenaded by local singers and musicians; the Baclayon Church, the second oldest church in the country; the blood compact site on top of a cliff side; and the Bohol Bee Farm, where European bees are cultured to get three times what the normal honey native bees can produce.

Though the scenic resort is not fully developed, Amorita’s dry-run operations have been very promising.

“We’re on soft operations and kept on adding more villas because it’s always not enough to accommodate all the bookings,” explained del Pilar.

“We’ll be having our phase-two operations next year to add 40 more de luxe rooms,” said del Pilar.

Adding more villas is carefully planned by its interior designer Lorrie Borja and its landscape artist Frank Borja. Amorita is targeting the European market, particularly the Germans and Russians, who travel in pairs and are fond of two-week stay.

In September this year, the resort will also offer its three-floor diving shop and school to amaze snorkelers and divers with the vast richness of sea creatures on Pamilacan and Balicasag islands, as well as the wellness spa to uplift the weary spirit of local and foreign visitors in October.

Meanwhile, the franchise holder of the Microtel Inn, the Phinma Group, enumerated its next expansion sites in the Philippines’ key major cities to continuously provide affordable and convenient accommodation to tourists and business travelers nationwide.

Microtel Davao is set to open on October 1 this year. Microtel Cebu and Cabanatuan will open on the first and second quarter of 2008, respectively. Mall of Asia will also have Microtel by 2009.

“We are now into location inquiry in Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan, for a possible opening also in 2009,” said Microtel sales and marketing manager Hannah Yulo.

Sinjin P.

August 24th, 2007, 07:10 AM

Kishanta development nears completion (http://sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/08/24/life/kishanta.development.nears.completion.html)

SITE development at Kishanta, the landmark Aboitizland, Inc. project in South Cebu, is nearing completion.

Engr. Perla Bataluna, Aboitizland, Inc.’s construction management team leader explained that the subdivision will have paved roads, streetlights and fully functional drainage systems before year-end.

As site development nears completion, vecinos (Spanish for neighbors, a term Aboitizland has coined to mean lot owners in their various projects) are now preparing to develop their respective properties.

The company is also preparing for the construction of its house and lot units at the Kishanta site. The house and lot packages will also be available before year-end, announced Leorelei Ylaya, marketing manager. Kishanta’s house-and-lot package will be offer “bigger-than-usual lot sizes and attractive pricing.”

There will be 100 house and lot units that will be offered within the Kishanta development, reflecting the Zen theme around which the subdivision has been planned. The structures will be constructed using top-of-the-line technology in keeping with Aboitizland’s commitment to quality, durability and aesthetic value.

Kishanta is located in the hills of Talisay City and has been dubbed Aboitizland’s “best offer yet” to businessmen, professionals and overseas Filipino workers in the Central Visayas region.

The project, planned around the tropical Zen design concept, makes full use of the lush greenery and fantastic views that surround it–the trees and mountains to the west, the landscapes of Cebu City to the north, southern Cebu to the south and the urban environment and Bohol Strait to the east.

Kishanta offers a holistic approach to life in a tropical setting. Its design makes thoughtful use of light and space, the calming breezes, clean and simple lines, the greenery and inspiring views.

The 15-hectare property features top-of-the-line amenities such as the clubhouse, party hall, playcourt and children’s playground, picnic area and a view deck with a 360-degree panorama.

Its design also includes an infinity pool, herbal garden, Zen park, foot and jogging paths, meditation area and exercise stations and provisions for a convenience store and spa facilities.

The clubhouse will be 70 percent complete by December. The landscaped entrance to the subdivision will be fully operational by then and parks and streetscapes will also take shape

Sinjin P.

August 24th, 2007, 07:12 AM

Monterrazas de Cebu (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Lifestyle&p=52&type=2&sec=74&aid=20070823259)

Friday, August 24, 2007

Behind the landmark Capitol sits a 200-hectare property characterized by eight contigous hills with a ridge spanning over three kilometers. This is the site of Landco Pacific Corporation’s largest and most ambitious mixed-used residential development – Monterrazas de Cebu, its joint-venture project with Cebu’s Genvi Development Corporation.

Prestige Address and Lifestyle

Monterrazas de Cebu is one of the most unique mountain communities in the Queen City of the South as it is the first and only umber exclusive residential mountain address to date. Choice lots are available for a very exclusive few. It promises breathtaking vistas of the city, the sea, the forests of Buhisan, and the nearby islands of Mactan and even Bohol. Located 335 meters above sea level, the development enjoys a cool mountain climate.

Aside from these natural attributes, the development blends timeless traditions with modern conveniences offering varied activities that will engage all five senses. Best-in-class amenities include a resort-inspired clubhouse, a one-of-a-kind clubhouse that will feature refreshing mountain infinity pools which will enhance the view from the “sky cabanas.” Completing the experience are fitness and health facilities which features multi-purpose courts for basketball, volleyball, badminton as well as jogging trails. A theme park is also part of the development providing a quiet sanctuary for homeowners to commune with nature or connect with their inner being.

Technology plays an integral part of the development philosophy as it answers the most important need of homeowners – safety and security. The gated community has a 24-hour state-of-the-art security system which includes electronically controlled entry system, integrated walkways, graded roadways and underground facility.

Since we are all living in the cyber space age and access to internet is a necessity more than a luxury, Monterrazas de Cebu is a WI-FI-ready community with a 24-hour internet. At Monterrazas de Cebu, you will find elegant homes that are part of the landscape. Parallel to this, the development envisions to revive the known Cebuano lifestyle of people-friendly neighborhoods and open public spaces. What’s even more exciting is the concept of cluster lots which is a very distinct Filipino trait. Monterrazas de Cebu will be the first and only development offering cluster lots designed to create exclusive compounds to tightly-knit Filipino families.

Here, you will begin your family legacy that will last for generations.

Take the first step toward your family’s legacy by calling (032) 231 3715.

Jarenz

August 24th, 2007, 08:40 AM

SleMarKen

August 24th, 2007, 11:34 AM

Amorita: an unspoiled paradise in Bohol
(http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/0824&252007/economy05.html)

Microtel Davao is set to open on October 1 this year. Microtel Cebu and Cabanatuan will open on the first and second quarter of 2008, respectively. Mall of Asia will also have Microtel by 2009.

How can they open on the first quarter of 2008 if they haven't even started the construction yet. :dunno:

achernar

August 24th, 2007, 02:06 PM

I'm hoping that cebu would have it's own theme park...like enchanted kingdom

but i think that wouldn't be possible in the near 10 years...

i wonder why they get rid of GLICOS in AYALA and FUNWORLD in SM?

flesh_is_weak

August 24th, 2007, 02:14 PM

Lucio Tan should get his hands out of Mactan...in fact everyone else looking forward to putting up an enclave for the elite-only in the island should look somewhere else...what Mactan Island needs is world-class development that can be enjoyed by everyone regardless of socio-economic status

ashton

August 24th, 2007, 02:37 PM

^ GLICOS yeah I remember.... the rides and all. haha

dabert

August 24th, 2007, 04:01 PM

UPDATE:

...there is an on-going clearing operation beside GAISANO SOUTH (Colon side)...the demolition activity covers a big area from the their makeshift baggage deposit center up to the shoe store (next to the cellphone stores) which is now also being demolished... the entire area is now fenced and cleared from sidewalk vendors.... i have not seen any rendering or signage yet about this new development..... guys, any idea?

i've also seen this development awhile ago. maybe it would indeed be an annex of Gaisano South.. it really is a huge area.

..

anyway, what i love about our thread is that it's frequently filled with substantial contents, articles, updates, and of course, stunning pictures.. yeah.. go CEBU! :D

Jarenz

August 24th, 2007, 05:54 PM

i've also seen this development awhile ago. maybe it would indeed be an annex of Gaisano South.. it really is a huge area.

..

anyway, what i love about our thread is that it's frequently filled with substantial contents, articles, updates, and of course, stunning pictures.. yeah.. go CEBU! :D

Im 60% sure with this one....because i heard this rumor last 2 months

Onizuka01

August 24th, 2007, 06:13 PM

Filipino engineer who worked on NASA projects comes home

Hopes to develop RP's aeronautics education

By Jolene Bulambot
Visayas Bureau
Last updated 08:57pm (Mla time) 08/19/2007

CEBU CITY, Philippines--After over two decades of working in the aerospace industry in the United States, Cebuano Ernesto Codina has decided to come home so he could help government develop the field of aeronautics.

Codina, a 67-year-old quality assurance engineer, has worked on projects, through private contractors, for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for 25 years as a quality assurance engineer.

He first worked as a senior manufacturing engineer for Ford Aerospace Corp. in 1979 and, then, he joined Raytheon Engineers and Constructors Division in 1986 as a manufacturing and quality assurance engineer.

Ford Aerospace designs, develops and manufactures mission control computer consoles and telecommunications equipment for space flight applications. Raytheon is a NASA contractor responsible for safety, reliability and quality assurance of hardware and equipment.

For his more than two decades with NASA, Codina said he was fortunate to be selected as one of the few engineers to design hardware for the astronauts.

One of the most important NASA projects he was involved in was the design of a jet pack in 1996 that would aid the astronauts during their space walk. The jet pack helps the astronaut propel them back to the spacecraft, said Codina, who was recognized Saturday by the University of San Carlos as one of its most outstanding alumni for 2007.

The project was very difficult since the US government gave them one year to design the hardware with only $1 billion budget, Codina recalled.

Working with NASA was a dream come true for Codina who dreamt of being part of the aerospace program as child. This was the reason he took up mechanical engineering. After he graduated in 1964, he worked with several companies in the Philippines until he migrated with his family to the US in 1969. He worked for several companies in the US and when his family moved to Texas, he applied for a job with Ford Aerospace, a NASA contractor.

But the ladder to success was difficult, according to Codina saying he had to hurdle a lot of trials before he was finally accepted in NASA.

But it was worth the trouble. He became the only Filipino who worked directly for NASA's space program while the other Filipinos were trained for other jobs, he said.

Codina retired in 2001 but he stayed on at Raytheon as a consultant for two years. He had been coming home for annual visits but he decided to stay for good.

Codina said he would love to help the government in establishing educational institutions that would offer aeronautics courses.

"I would like to contribute any of my engineering knowledge. I like to pass it back to my countrymen, as my way of helping the economy, helping the improve quality of life," he told the Philippine Daily Inquirer (parent company of INQUIRER.net) after the awarding ceremony.

Onizuka01

August 24th, 2007, 06:52 PM

I don't know if anyone of you here(SSC Cebu Forum) is a member of this website which I have just found out moments ago. I've seen pictures from there, wherein some members here has posted already.. The site features just all about Cebu.. I would want to copy the images but maybe some of the pictures are already posted here already before, I don't know if anyone here already goes to that website before I came in here.(ssc). :ohno:

This website:
http://www.ngkhai.net/cebupics/index.php

Heres just one of the many that I like, :cheers:

http://www.ngkhai.net/cebupics/albums/userpics/10203/thumb_city%20dawn.jpg

sugbuanon

August 24th, 2007, 07:10 PM

^^ i was once a contributor of ngkhai but its been months now since i stopped posting my pics in their website coz someone with the handle "Y2" had been grabbing some of my pics [probably here from ssc] and posted it there without my knowledge.. some of my pics that he posted even have my watermark/ signature.. tsk tsk

i had already emailed them to air my complaint but to no avail.. i still have to receive their reply..

PINOYmeat

August 24th, 2007, 07:42 PM

diehardbisdak

August 25th, 2007, 04:06 AM

i wonder why they get rid of GLICOS in AYALA and FUNWORLD in SM?

... i think it's self explanatory.... no profit, no business... di sila nag click sa Cebu...hehehhee! ...perhaps, nag click at first but as always, Cebuanos are "madaling magsawa"....

diehardbisdak

August 25th, 2007, 04:14 AM

UPDATE:

... aside from the fenced lot next to Security Bank in which according to the SSC source, another project but a midget one... there is another fenced lot next to the Ayala Condo TOWER 1 at CBP (at the corner of Samar Loop and Leyte Road....the road to the Hipodromo Exit) ...it's quite big...hmmmm... i wonder unsa na sab ni?

diehardbisdak

August 25th, 2007, 04:23 AM

UPDATE:

...there is a modern building under construction in the downtown area near the Carbon Area... it looks like there is a 2-level carpark.... they are now working on the 5th floor.... quite huge building but in a secluded area...

gonzahr22

August 25th, 2007, 04:27 AM

can anyone here pls post some new pictures of USC-TC..many thanks.. :)

diehardbisdak

August 25th, 2007, 04:29 AM

^^ paging @sugbuanon!

Onizuka01

August 25th, 2007, 04:43 AM

h3nry

August 25th, 2007, 05:11 AM

Oh Na miss ko na ang sugbo!!!
Sumilon Island (Cebu)

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/2208/sumilon1pd1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/3174/sumilon2hh2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/4290/sumilon3te0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/364/sumilon4jz6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

LordCarnal

August 25th, 2007, 06:02 AM

^^

Nakabantay bitaw ko Marvin, puros jud imoha pero gipang upload ni Y2... Diba siya man sad tung nag photo shop sa imo pic sa Bantayan tapos gibutangan niya ug name niya?

Photos by archi_marvin

The bridge
http://www.ngkhai.net/cebupics/albums/userpics/10071/bantayan%20001.jpg

For scale
http://www.ngkhai.net/cebupics/albums/userpics/10071/bantayan%20012.jpg

Park
http://www.ngkhai.net/cebupics/albums/userpics/10071/bantayan%20014.jpg

gonzahr22

August 25th, 2007, 09:33 AM

naa unta mag post dinhi ug mga pictures sa USC-TC.. hehehe.. hangyu lang. daghang salamat.

PINOYmeat

August 25th, 2007, 11:50 AM

Carvajal: Cebu tourism’s promise and reality
By Orlando P. Carvajal
Break Point

AT Sun.Star’s Economic Forum the other day, speakers cited glowing figures pointing to the phenomenal growth of Cebu’s tourism industry, making Cebu the number one tourist destination in the country. Undoubtedly reliable, the figures were truly encouraging for businessmen who must have seen a lot of promise in the present state of Cebu’s tourism industry.

Not only the actual figures but the infrastructure development projects on stream and in the drawing boards of the Department of Tourism showed a lot of promise and had the letters I-N-V-E-S-T written all over them. Clearly, as Secretary of Tourism Joseph “Ace” Durano said, the time to invest in tourism is now.

At an even more fundamental level, the promise was defined by SM Investments Corp. Director Gregory Domingo when he said that tourism is the only industry that can be promoted to massively improve this country’s economy for the simple reason that all the islands in the archipelago have the potential to be a tourist stop.

Think about it. There is nothing in the horizon that tells us we can make the whole country a manufacturing center in the area like China. Some islands like possibly Cebu, can perhaps aspire to become a financial services or IT hub. But because we are an archipelago and nature has gifted us with the longest stretch of beaches anywhere else in the area, the whole archipelago and every part of it can definitely become a tourist spot.

HERE (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/08/25/oped/orlando.p..carvajal.break.point.html)

slimer

August 25th, 2007, 03:50 PM

some midgets under construction...
renderings are now posted on the site

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/6494/smareadr1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

rustyboi

August 25th, 2007, 04:41 PM

^^at first glance i thought it's "MARIKINA STOCK EXCHANGE". :lol:

cool sketch slimer, thanks for the updates :okay:

tj_brewed

August 25th, 2007, 06:29 PM

It's great to have establishments starting to fill up the NRA lots.......weeeeeeee......i hope that the developers of Park 168 would start their construction na rin.

flesh_is_weak

August 25th, 2007, 06:34 PM

^^but hopefully, it wont just be filled with midgets...a cluster of highrises on the harbor front is what Cebu needs to get the 'Hong Kong-look'...and with its close proximity to the seaport and the airport, it might as well become the city's new financial district, something like a new downtown--that is after the squatters are relocated

achernar

August 26th, 2007, 12:51 AM

asa naman tong plans to make a railway system for Cebu? nabasura na?

i think a railway system in cebu is never possible within the near future

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:02 AM

a colorful midget...

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01617.jpg

a tall icon

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01609.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:04 AM

progressive cebu... in a league of its own :cheers:

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01608.jpg
international banks at the financial capital of the south

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:11 AM

Malapascua: A new eco-tourism hotspot

IN ORDER to maximize the tourism potentials of Malapascua Island, Cebu, Rep. Benhur Salimbangon (fourth district) passed a bill declaring the island an eco-tourism destination.

Salimbangon said Ma-lapascua has been heralded as the “Virgin Boracay Island” and is considered a favorite tourist
destination among foreigners and locals.

The creation of eco-tourism destinations in the Philippines is needed since tourism is “the most potent and valuable industry” today, he said.

Thrusts

Addressing the issues on marketing, accessibility, infrastructure, product development and transportation to Malapascua, as well as the preservation of its natural resources, its natural beauty and local heritage were among the thrusts of the bill.

“The environmental attributes and rich natural resources of Malapascua apart from its natural beauty are what make it potentially an eco-tourism destination in the country,” Salimbangon said.

Among the provisions of the bill is the creation of an Eco-Tourism Task Force within the year from its approval. Its governing board shall be co-chaired by the congressman and the governor.

Members will be representatives from the environment department, tourism department, health department, the private sector, nongovernment organizations and the local government unit.

It will then task the tourism and environment departments to prepare an eco-tourism master plan and come up with the necessary rules and regulations to be approved by the President upon the recommendation of the board.

At the Capitol, Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia has ordered the dismantling of structures encroaching on the island’s 20-meter-easement zone.

Resort operators oppose the order. (MBG)

HERE (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/08/26/news/malapascua.a.new.eco.tourism.hotspot.html)

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:14 AM

the pag-ibig... not your ordinary government building

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01607.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:16 AM

eerie silence in gorordo ave...

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01605.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:17 AM

cebu's symbol of might and power

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01604.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01602.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:29 AM

koreans getting comfortable with cebu, theyre now behaving like locals :lol: :lol: :lol:

“We don’t need bad Koreans”: Rama takes issue with rowdy Koreans
By Wenna A. Berondo
Sunday, August 26, 2007

That Koreans now make up the biggest number of foreign arrivals in Cebu is not all boon to the local community.

Along with their increasing numbers is a corresponding increase in crimes and other forms of trouble involving Koreans and city officials are getting worried.

Cebu City Vice Mayor Michael Rama, who sits as chairman of the Police Coordinating and Advisory Council, said he is concerned by the increasing incidences of crimes either perpetrated by or victimizing Koreans that he plans to meet Augusto Go, the honorary consul of the Republic of Korea to discuss the matter.

Aside from Go, the vice mayor said he also plans to meet with representatives of Korean organizations in Cebu to find solutions to the problem.

“ We would talk on how we could have better relationships. I’m making myself available so we can talk about the problem, “ Rama said.

Rama said many of the incidents are born from excessive drinking, and while he understands that drinking is part of the Korean culture, Koreans in Cebu should not cause trouble here, considering that this is not their country but are mere guests here.

“ We may need them but we don’t need bad Koreans. If they misbehave, they should go through a certain process so they would know how to behave, ” Rama said.

Last month, a certain Taecheol Park, a native of Busan, South Korea, and a female Cebuano friend named Bona Benitez, were shot in Mabolo by unknown motorcycle-riding men. Police later suspected a love triangle, and pointed to another Korean as one of the assailants. The case was, however, never solved.

In an earlier incident, a group of Korean students flirted with disaster when they blocked a side road while drinking just as controversial policeman Adonis Dumpit happened to pass by in his car and an altercation ensued.

Dumpit has gained notoriety as a cop who is quick to the draw.

Another incident involved a drunk Korean who mauled a taxi driver on being asked for his fare. At the police station where he was taken, the drunk Korean went berserk and tried to fight with the police officers.

So regular have incidents become involving drunken Koreans that many locals have come to regard them as normal.

But not, it seems, to Rama.

Rama, while admitting that this may be so because Koreans also happen to be the biggest number of foreign nationals in the city, said this still does not give these foreign guests the right to be insensitive to local customs and sensibilities.

According to the South Korean Association in Cebu, there are up to 18,000 Koreans who fly in to Cebu every month. This does not include those who are staying longer as students at special language schools where they are learning English.

Schools teaching Koreans English have sprouted all over Cebu, and are catching up with the number of Korean restaurants or establishments that cater to a mainly Korean clientele.

But it is not only Koreans who are misbehaving. Some are also falling victims to local criminals.

Recently, a certain Young Suk Jeon, 30, was robbed and shot by two men on a motorcycle in Banilad after she refused to hand over her bag. Young had already finished her three-month English course but opted to stay because “ she could not get enough of the beautiful places in the province. “

Rama said he wants to talk with Go and the Korean organizations not only to discuss the issue on misbehaving Koreans but also to provide safety for them during their stay here in Cebu. (/JST )

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/freemanpic.jpg
typical scene at the basilica

HERE (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Local%20News&p=52&type=1&sec=70&op=40&om=57)

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:33 AM

cebu's 2nd branch of the international chain gloria jean's coffee

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01601.jpg

just in front is cebu's mighty bo's

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01597.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:35 AM

the new boulevard

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01600.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:37 AM

the newly opened jollibee at the boulevard, wow may jollibee... progressive na nga :lol: :lol: :lol:

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01598.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01599.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:44 AM

Tourism open to investments

TOURISM industry leaders have named language schools and events management services among the many viable business opportunities for local entrepreneurs who want to capitalize on the sector’s potential growth.

Tourism Secretary Joseph “Ace” Durano said providing tour packages, establishing English language schools, souvenir shops and manufacturing consumable souvenirs are also attractive investments even for small and medium businesses.

The famous Cebuano delicacy, otap, and other specialties can even gain more international popularity if repackaged in a certain way, he said.

“As long as you have the creativity and skill, you don’t need to have much capital to put up a business that will benefit the whole industry,” he said in an interview following his presentation of the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) outlook for Cebu during the Sun.Star Economic Forum last Thursday.

While Cebu needs more rooms to accommodate the DOT’s target of one million tourists by 2012, Durano said tourism investment potentials are not limited to the construction of hotels and resorts.

Small businesses

He said he is glad that there are several businesses that are conducting market studies to identify small-scale businesses which will complement the tourism industry’s growth.

He said Cebuano entrepreneurs with tour operating capabilities can form a consortium to develop creative tourism packages for foreign travelers.

But Alice Queblatin, president of the Cebu Association of Tour Operators, said there is no lack of tour operators in the province.

There is, however, a need for “novel ideas” to market Cebu as a leisure and cultural heritage destination, she added.

Durano said events management services will soon be a hit as he predicted an influx of meetings, incentives, conventions
and exhibitions (Mice) in Cebu.

Tourism Undersecretary Phineas Alburo said Cebu is in need of local events organizers who cater to the international Mice market. Most of the events organizers come from Metro Manila, he added.

The establishment of English-as-a-second-language (ESL) schools is another viable investment as the Philippines has become a training ground for Koreans, Japanese and Chinese who want to enhance their English proficiency, said Durano.

Repackaging souvenirs

The DOT officials believe that there is room for more souvenir shops in key tourism spots in Cebu.

Growth in foreign arrivals in Cebu, which rose by 39.49 percent in the first six months of the year compared to the same period in 2006, has continued to sustain the souvenir shop business even though they sell the same items, Alburo said.

Durano, however, recommended the repackaging of souvenir delicacies and pastries.

“For tourists who frequent the province, they see the same gift items year after year,” he said.

The usual packaging of well-known Cebuano delicacy, otap, for example, may be too bulky for foreigners.

“If they can repackage it with each piece of otap wrapped individually nga mora’g chocolate bar, then I think it’s good for foreigners,” Durano said.

Also during the Sun.Star Economic Forum, SM Investments Corp. director Gregory Domingo said property investors can cash in on the growth of Cebu’s tourism industry by putting up diverse accommodation types.

In his talk titled, “Business Opportunities in Tourism in Cebu,” he said the country lacks “good (yet) cheap” rooms for backpackers, as well as “good expensive accommodation” for high-end travelers.

Establishing a home-stay program, in which backpacker tourists stay in private homes, can also be income-generating for locals, said Datuk Karim Hj. Bujang, minister of tourism, culture and environment in Sabah, Malaysia.

“All you need is a decent room with nice beds and a clean bathroom and you’re all set,” he said during the forum.
(MMM)

HERE (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/08/25/bus/tourism.open.to.investments.html)

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:46 AM

cebu doctors university hospital and a christian church

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01596.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:51 AM

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 05:53 AM

A cute midget :cheers:

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01592.jpg

-= end =-

TagaCebu

August 26th, 2007, 08:23 AM

can anyone here pls post some new pictures of USC-TC..many thanks.. :)
http://www.usc.edu.ph/visiting_campus/campus_tour.jsp

You can take a peek at particular areas of U of SAN CARLOS each campus through virtual tour or a campus map (http://www.usc.edu.ph/visiting_campus/campus_tour.jsp) of the four campuses of USC.

Ady001

August 26th, 2007, 08:52 AM

one can easily tell this pic is in cebu judging from the dominant yellow flooding the street (yellow center islands, yellow road railings, yellow colored posts and yeah... good road markings, not just your typical BOYSEN):lol: :lol: :lol:

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01593.jpg

makabalo na jod ka... pag taga manila ka, pink tanan, sa Cebu yellow... hehehe...

Ang among jeep baya yellow kay pangalan sa akong papa kay Gilbert, which means yellow.

Sinjin P.

August 26th, 2007, 10:34 AM

It's great to have establishments starting to fill up the NRA lots.......weeeeeeee......i hope that the developers of Park 168 would start their construction na rin.

I just passed by Parkmall@168's site earlier and saw a busy digging activity. :)

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 11:08 AM

repost... cold morning

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/now2.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/cbd.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 11:11 AM

south coastal road viaduct

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/paulo6.jpg

cebu nights

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/Photo-0088.jpg

tj_brewed

August 26th, 2007, 11:14 AM

I just passed by Parkmall@168's site earlier and saw a busy digging activity. :)

It's bout time! thnx for the update sinj!

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 11:17 AM

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/IMG_1477.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 11:19 AM

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/dec5_98.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 26th, 2007, 11:21 AM

welcome sign at fuente osmeña
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/peejay_domek/cebu/welcomepic.jpg

achernar

August 26th, 2007, 01:03 PM

achernar

August 26th, 2007, 01:05 PM

‘Naga City’ poll to shut out 4T

RESIDENTS of Naga will get their chance on Sunday, Sept. 2, to show whether they approve their town’s conversion into a city, Cebu’s third this year alone.

However, at least 4,000 newly registered or reactivated voters of the town will not be able to participate.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec), in two resolutions promulgated last Thursday, set the calendar of activities as well as the rules for the Naga plebiscite.

Under the rules, only registered voters as of the May 14, 2007 national and local elections are qualified to vote during the plebiscite.

Naga had 44,643 registered voters as of May 14.

But after the continuing registration resumed, in preparation for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections this October, the number of registered voters has gone up to 49,131.

This means 4,488 cannot vote in next week’s plebiscite, confirmed Naga Election Officer Ferdinand Hortelano.

The precincts and polling places used in the May 14 elections will be the same precincts to be used on Sunday.

Hortelano said they are already prepared and have spread information in the different barangays. This is why he is expecting a high turnout.

Supplies like the official ballots and other materials for the plebiscite are expected to arrive on Thursday. The town has enough ballot boxes for the activity and these have been readied.

Hortelano plans to create canvassing sub-committees and several reception and custody groups so that that the proceedings will be fast.

The municipal plebiscite board of canvassers has to convene at 4 p.m. and Hortelano is projecting that at 8 p.m., they can proceed with the proclamation.

The carrying of firearms, including licensed ones, will be banned from Aug. 15 to Sept. 8, the town’s plebiscite period.

Those for or against the conversion have until Friday, Aug. 31, to campaign.

Naga Mayor Valdemar Chiong said they will start campaigning today by distributing leaflets to churchgoers.

Chiong is optimistic that the “yes” votes will win, but admitted he has apprehensions that residents might not take the time to join.

“Ang ato diha unsaon pag-motivate ang mga tawo nga mobotar kay usahay ra ba, passive kaayo ang mga tawo (Our challenge is to motivate the voters, because sometimes people can be so passive),” he said.

If Naga becomes a city, Chiong said an expected increase in its share of the Internal Revenue Allotment will allow officials to pursue projects like road improvements, water systems, a solid waste management facility, a Naga City College, a new market and a new public cemetery.

If voters approve the conversion, Naga will become the ninth city in Cebu (including Cebu City).

Last June, Bogo officially became a city and just last month, Carcar also became one.

Also last month, Lapu-Lapu City became a highly-urbanized city, which means it has ceased to be a component city of the Province of Cebu. (MBG)

tj_brewed

August 26th, 2007, 01:29 PM

where is this located?

Osmena Blvd. Right side if papuntang Capitol from Fuente Osmena Circle.

Jarenz

August 26th, 2007, 04:46 PM

Anita's

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u177/Jarenz_038/Anitas.jpg

miaka_cham

August 26th, 2007, 07:06 PM

Jimbu

August 26th, 2007, 09:55 PM

RobinLand to build IT building at Mandaue Reclamation Area (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=52&type=2&sec=71&aid=20070826211)
Monday, August 27, 2007
The Freeman

The shortage of building facilities in Cebu to host the rapidly growing Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and other Information Technology (IT) related investments, prompted businessman Edwin Robin to invest at least P300 million to build a 16-story IT building at the Mandaue Reclamation Area.

Newly formed RobinLand Inc. will establish another landmark at the Mandaue Reclamation called RobinLand Business Center (RBC) that will primarily cater to the needs of IT related investments in Cebu.

In an interview with Wilfredo Sa-a Jr., RobinLand Inc., business development manager, he said that the company is currently working on the requirements to make the high-rise building a registered IT building, that could provide tax perks, and other incentives to locators.

Sa-a said the company has already submitted the initial requirements to the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), so that the company can immediately provide incentives to locators upon completion, which is scheduled next year.

Earth-breaking activities to start the construction will start next month, Sa-a said. The company targets to finish the building by middle of 2008.

Sa-a said he will coordinate closely with the Cebu Investments and Promotions Center (CIPC) to attract building locators, especially big-names in the global IT industry.

The company has commissioned renowned architect Tessie Javier to design the building, Sa-a said. — Ehda M. Dago-oc

tj_brewed

August 26th, 2007, 11:41 PM

hi guys..i'm just wondering, do you happen to know about the IT complex (it's not a highrise though, but it's huge i think) that's U/C right now at lapulapu city?it's just right at the heart of the mactan(highway area)..^_^

thanks!

Vidichi? Across Mactan Marina Mall?

tj_brewed

August 26th, 2007, 11:43 PM

Ex!lE

August 27th, 2007, 03:21 AM

Monday, August 27, 2007
9 grads in Cebu top nursing test

NINE students from five schools in Cebu City are in the top 10 list of examinees who took the nursing board exams last June. For at least one of them, it was a happy surprise after the ordeal of being ordered to take the exams again.

Of the nine, three are from Velez College, two each from Southwestern University (SWU) and University of Cebu (UC), and one each from the Cebu Normal University (CNU) and the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC) College of Nursing.

An ecstatic Jennielyn Nuez told Sun.Star Cebu in a phone interview last night that she didn’t expect to become a topnotcher, considering that she chose to review on her own.

Nuez was among the 336 retakers who chose to take the entire test again, instead of just tests 3 and 5, after controversy marred the outcome of the 2006 nursing board exams which she earlier took. She placed ninth this year.

“Wow! Hala ka-amazing! Nganong ako man? Oh my God! Di ko ka-believe,” a shrieking Nuez said, adding that she really didn’t expect to be in the top 10 because this year’s exam was more difficult than the last.

Instead of just retaking two test items, Nuez said she decided to take the entire test instead, fearing her chances of landing a job might be jeopardized if potential employers would find out she was among those who took the 2006 exams.

UC’s Jundell Castardo landed fifth with an average of 86.8 percent. April Candy Kong of CNU and Santonin Yu of UC placed eighth, with an average of 86.2 percent.

At ninth spot are CCMC’s Michael Louise Cervantes, Jewey Ann Torrefranca of SWU, and Velez’s Brian Martin Tan and Jennielyn Nuez. They all scored an average of 86 percent.

Velez’s Gilbert Endriga and SWU’s Cyrus Man Paalisbo are at the 10th place, with 85.8 percent.

The nine are among the 61 examinees who landed in the top 10. Of the 64,909 who took the exams, only 31,275 passed; 248 of the 336 re-takers also passed.

Velez College of Nursing dean Liliosa Lumbab attributes the success of their three graduates their “individual capacities and the guidance” of the school, apart from the training program provided by the school’s own hospital.

But she said this is not the first time the college, which has been offering nursing since 1955, produced three topnotchers in a year.

“(I always tell the examinees) Trust your stock knowledge and your experiences in the clinical area since we know these are the core competencies that are in the test framework of the board exams,” she said.

She said that aside from a cash reward, jobs at Cebu Velez General Hospital are waiting for the three.

However, she admitted that she expects the passers, especially the topnotchers and the re-takers, to leave the country for jobs abroad.

For UC’s Castardo and Yu, university president Augusto Go, who was in Hong Kong when he heard the news last night, promised them P100,000 each, said UC-Banilad College of Nursing dean Helen Estrella.

“The president had promised a car for first place. But this is more than what have expected,” she told Sun.Star Cebu.

Estrella said that they had high hopes Castardo and Yu would make it to the top 10. She said the two have been excelling in both curricular and extra-curricular activities.

UC’s administration also gave honors to UC-LapuLapu Mandaue (LM) College of Nursing dean Ramelita Romano, who passed away last July 15.

“This is really her dream—to produce placers,” Estrella said of Romano, who served UC-Main since 1988 and handled UC-LM’s college of nursing when it opened four years ago.

“She must be rejoicing in heaven,” said UC’s vice chancellor for academic affairs Dr. Erlinda Barcelo.

Barcelo also congratulated the dean and the college’s teachers for the results.

Estrella said the UC administration has taken extra measures to ensure its students are well-prepared for the board exam.

For one whole year, students were required to review in UC. Thirty days before the exam date, they were made to undergo a “closely guarded review scheme.”

This meant that students were made to stay in two seminaries within the city where further review sessions were held. Estrella said this was done to ensure that their students wouldn’t be distracted from their review.

Board passers will have their oath-taking on Oct. 2 at the Araneta Coliseum.

Those who failed may take again the exam this December and must submit their application forms from Sept. 17 to 28. (RCT/CYR)

PINOYmeat

August 27th, 2007, 03:47 AM

frsdh pics just this morning... (marco polo and citylights)

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01630.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 27th, 2007, 03:48 AM

sidewalk at the back of the IT park

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01629.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01628.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 27th, 2007, 03:50 AM

japanese (or is it korean?) restaurant at the IT park

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01627.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 27th, 2007, 03:50 AM

skyrise

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01626.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 27th, 2007, 03:52 AM

the back portion of the golden peak hotel gets a new coating (but still, its ugly) :nuts:

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01623.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 27th, 2007, 03:54 AM

perpetual succour hospital of the sisters of st. paul of chartres (SPC) is undergoing expansion

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01621.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01622.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 27th, 2007, 03:57 AM

European chamber developing website to help promote Cebu

CEBU will soon be a click away for potential European investors and tourists.

This, as the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) will launch early next month www.cebueuropeconnect.com, an online portal that presents Cebu as an investment and tourism hub in the Philippines, said the ECCP Cebu Business Council chairman Sabino Dapat.

“It will be the gateway for Europeans to do business in Cebu and vice versa. It will be a stepping stone to creating trade relations,” he said.

In the website presentation and press conference last Friday at the ECCP office in Cebu City, the chamber stressed that the website’s homepage is a platform specifically designed to promote business and leisure opportunities in the province.

Cebu will be “effective” being in the forefront of promoting the Philippines, said Jurgen Pesch, general manager of Christ Philippines Inc., manufacturer of leather and sheepskin garments operating inside the Mactan Economic Zone (MEZ) 1.

Tool

“Cebu as a brand is something special like Bali of Indonesia and Phuket of Thailand. It deserves direct promotion because there have not been enough tools to promote the island in the way it deserves,” Pesch said.

The website also features a fact sheet on why Cebu is a viable investment destination and information on key industries as well as events. It also contains a page on frequently asked questions about doing business in Cebu and provides links to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

ECCP membership and business development officer Pia Velasquez said another content dubbed, “Europe in Cebu,” will soon be added to the website and will feature testimonials of successful European businessmen in the province.

In the same development, Roselu Paloma, ECCP branch manager, called on industry associations of partner organizations like DTI, Cebu Investment Promotions Center, MEZ 1 and 2, and Philexport-Cebu to have themselves listed at no extra cost and help in promoting the website to their clients or partners, especially in Europe.

“This will only be successful if there’s a buy-in for partners and clients,” she said.

She also said businesses like hotels can also use the website to display their services through advertisements. She added that she is optimistic the website will help spur tourism-related activities in Cebu.

ECCP members in Cebu are involved in the fashion accessories, furniture, cable, leather goods, furnishings and software and information technology industries. (MMM)

HERE (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/08/27/bus/european.chamber.developing.website.to.help.promote.cebu.html)

Sinjin P.

August 27th, 2007, 05:29 AM

animasola

August 27th, 2007, 08:06 AM

^^Wasn't there a problem with the land title or something?

achernar

August 27th, 2007, 10:26 AM

para nako nindot na jud unta ang CEBU CITY... naa siyay capacity to become like HONG KONG or SINGAPORE pero naa jud 1 ka problem...

ang nakabati kay ang CEBU CITY wala jud urban planning... bati kaau ang routa sa karsada, mao nang traffic kaau... bati ang urban planning... ang mga residential area kay nasagol sa commercial districts and vice versa... i hope a solution would be made on this...

achernar

August 27th, 2007, 10:47 AM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1297/1247750416_0d863659eb.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1149/1246895893_c0e41a2680.jpg?v=0

limpyo kaau noh?

PINOYmeat

August 27th, 2007, 11:24 AM

slimer

August 27th, 2007, 01:22 PM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1149/1246895893_c0e41a2680.jpg?v=0

limpyo kaau noh?

where is this bai? yeah very clean.

LordCarnal

August 27th, 2007, 01:44 PM

Ex!lE

August 28th, 2007, 02:54 AM

Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Tourism fair organizers pick Cebu as venue

CAPITALIZING on the growth of the Philippines’ tourism industry, particularly in Cebu, international and local stakeholders are expected to flock to the Central Visayas province for the 1st Philippine International Tourism Fair (PITF) and the Travel Exchange simultaneously.

The PITF is organized by the National Association of Independent Travel Agencies (Naitas) while Phitex is being mobilized by the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corp. (PCVC), the marketing arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The event, which will be from Sept. 5 to 7 will be held at the Cebu International Convention Center and will gather around 150 European, American, Asian and Middle Eastern tour operators, corporate buyers, holiday specialists, tourism attaches and other foreign buyers from more than 25 countries.

Centerpiece

Naitas president Angel Ramos Bognot explained that the travel organization has chosen to hold the fair in Cebu because of the growing interest of the international market on Cebu both for leisure and business.

“Cebu is the centerpiece of our marketing program because it has the elements and ingredients of a perfect tourist destination. If we succeed in promoting and selling Cebu, definitely there will be renewed interest in other tourist destinations,” said Bognot, who is also this year’s PITF chairperson.

Discussions

She said this is the first time the Philippines will host an international travel trade event where the set-up will be business-to-business discussions.

The fair will be a combination of “tabletop” discussions between foreign and local buyers and sellers and a trade show where domestic and international entities could showcase their destinations.

Package

“The foreign buyers will explain what they want, what they need, how we can work with them and how we can do a tour package that is tailor-made for them. Through these meetings and interaction, local tour operators and organizers would be able to tap these foreign markets, especially new ones,” Bognot said in a statement furnished to Sun.Star Cebu.

While the first two days will be exclusive for trade buyers, the last day of the event will, however, be open to the public and is intended to promote domestic tourism.

“We would like people to know—from vendors to janitors, tricycle drivers and housewives—to understand that there is so much dignity in tourism activities so we always involve the community so (residents) can create a living through tourism. It’s a kind of multiplier effect to economy,” she said.

Concept

Buyers joining the event are from the United States, Germany, France, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Australia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, China, Korea, India and the United Arab Emirates, as shown by PCVC records since it is also incharge of inviting the foreign executives.

Ed Nuque, the event co-chairperson, said the concept of the PITF is similar to the travel fairs being held in countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, China and Europe.

“Many countries have their own international trade shows. We would like to start breaking into that market and, through the PITF, pave the way for a very successful positioning of the Philippines, specifically Cebu and Central Visayas,” Nuque said.

While, at present, DOT is concentrating on four major markets—Japan, Korea, China and North America—Bognot is optimistic that with the staging of the PITF, new foreign markets could be developed.

She added the three-day affair will spark more tourism-related activities for Central Philippines, particularly in Cebu, and may help DOT surpass its target of three million tourist arrivals this year. (MMM)

Ex!lE

August 28th, 2007, 03:01 AM

Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Capitol officials to attend tourism forum in Thailand

OFFICIALS of the Cebu Provincial Government will go to Thailand next week for the East Asia Tourism Forum (Eatof) where they will have a chance to market Cebu before representatives of at least 10 countries.

Cebu will also discuss with other Eatof-member countries the various tourism efforts within the region.

Meanwhile, the Cebu Province has already sold out all seats in its local tourism program, the Suroy-Suroy Sugbo Northern Escapade.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano had earlier said the local tourism industry is doing well, but it is better to expand Cebu’s tourism market beyond Korea, Japan, and the United States, which are on top of Cebu’s list of number of tourists.

Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia and provincial lawmakers will be accompanied by officers from the National Government and business sectors.

Leader

In this year’s assembly, the forum may also see Cebu emerge as leader among the members. This is because in last year’s forum, Gangwon Korea Gov. Kim Jun Sun, who founded the organization, appealed to Cebu to keep what could have been a “dying” organization, alive.

Provincial Board Member Agnes Magpale, head of the committee on tourism, said the “father of Eatof bequeathed” the organization to the Cebu governor. Magpale was one of those who worked with other countries when Eatof was formed in 1998.

Magpale had quoted Kim Jun Sun as saying that Cebu must “lead the way” before Eatof dies.

The Eatof was founded in 1998 to promote cooperation in East Asia in terms of tourism. It has nine members but other countries will be attending next week’s event including Australia, New Zealand, Laos, Cambodia and Brunei.

Members

The member provinces include Jilin, China; Tottori, Japan; Gangwon, Korea; Sarawak, Malaysia; Quang Ninh, Vietnam and this year’s host, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Aside from being able to discuss policies and forge agreements, Cebu’s delegation is expected to join a travel mart, where they can promote Cebu to travel representatives from participating countries.

Delegations from different countries, including Cebu, will also have presentations regarding various products produced from their localities.

“It is important to note that these events will be attended by Eatof delegates, travel and tourism representatives as well as members of the general public,” said Chiang Mai Gov. Vichai Srikwan in a letter to the Cebu Provincial Government.

Cebu’s lawmakers will also attend an “academic tourism symposium,” which will discuss the development and sustainability of tourism in East Asia. (JPM)

Sinjin P.

August 28th, 2007, 03:08 AM

P2.4-B resort to rise in Cebu (http://www.mb.com.ph/PROV20070828101446.html)

By MARS W. MOSQUEDA JR.

LAPU-LAPU CITY A foreign firm is eyeing to build a P2.4-billion, 616-room luxury tourist resort here that is expected to boost the province’s tourism industry and generate at least 1,209 jobs. Completion is in January 2009,

The announcement gave fresh hopes for the tourism industry in Cebu province that has been losing potential foreign in-bound tourist arrivals because of its shortage of hotel room accommodations during peak seasons.

Philippine BXT Corporation recently received a Board of Investment (BOI) Certificate of Registration from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) 7, granting the company full fiscal perks for the construction of a high-end tourist resort named the Imperial Palace Water Park and Spa.

The foreign-owned corporation said in a statement that the resort will be commercially operational in January 2009, and will generate at least 1, 209 job opportunities with annual payroll of R140.87 million.

The resort developer said that it will operate an "AAA" resort complete with amenities such as sports and recreational facilities, food and beverage, health and fitness facilities and other support facilities.

The firm will construct six medium-rise buildings, three 3-story townhouses, and 20 two-storey pool villas. It will have a total of 616 rooms.

The class "AAA" resort, currently under construction, with its world class guest rooms and facilities, is expected to provide a partial but substantial solution to the current room shortage problem of hotels and resorts in Cebu ’s tourism industry.

"Cebu, being a top tourist destination in the country, is reportedly experiencing problems of accommodating an increasing number of in-bound tourists from various parts of the world," the company statement said.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) endorsed this project to the BOI so it may be given a pioneer status, allowing the company to enjoy the full range of tax and other perks.

Recently, DOT Regional Director Patria Aurora Roa said the apparent room shortage problem in Cebu ’s hotels and resorts has discouraged the entry of more foreign high-end tourists to the island.

Tourism oriented projects, specifically tourist accommodation facilities, are included in the list of priority areas duly supported by government. Tourism oriented projects are in line with the government’s Medium-Term Development Plan for tourism and are included in this year’s Investments Priorities Plan.

The project falls under the government’s vision for Central Philippines to become the country’s tourism center.

The tourism industry and tourism-related projects such as hotels continues to be a top foreign exchange generator contributing to the growth of the Philippines economy.

Sinjin P.

August 28th, 2007, 03:11 AM

Cebu government eyes P3-B
proceeds from sale of reclaimed area
(http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/08282007/headlines02.html)
By Wilfredo Rodolfo III
Reporter

CEBU CITY—The city government hopes to raise at least P3 billion as it auctions off a portion of its 260-hectare reclaimed property off the Mactan Channel.

The city council last week gave Mayor Tomas Osmeña authority to sell 32 hectares of prime property at the South Road Properties (SRP) through public bidding. The council also allowed the mayor to start negotiating with other companies for a possible lease or joint-venture projects for the rest of the property.

Councilor Jose Daluz II told Business Mirror on Monday that the 32-hectare property, tagged lot 1-A, would be sold to one buyer. The terms of the bidding will be made public later this week, he added.

Daluz, the chairman of the council’s committee on finance, said City Hall is still deciding on the floor price for the property, but said it would be around P12,000 per square meter.

“This property is very valuable because it is the first lot you will see as you enter the SRP. This is very ideal for commercial businesses like malls,” Daluz said.

The money raised from auction will be used for debt servicing as well as for more development projects in SRP to make the property more attractive to investors. Some of the proceeds will also be used for the city’s services.

He said the second authorization given to the mayor would allow the chief executive to discuss terms with the companies interested in putting up commercial or industrial facilities in the area.

The financial terms of deals, however, would have to go through the City Council for ratification, Daluz said.

The SRP, completed in 2001, was built through a ¥6.7-billion loan obtained by the city government with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation. The biennial amortization would run up to 2020.

The national government then contributed about P10 billion for the Cebu South Coastal Road, which straddles through the SRP.

The city government, however, only officially sealed one deal: A four-hectare lease contract with Bigfoot Global Solutions, which plans to build a film studio on the reclaimed property.

Sinjin P.

August 28th, 2007, 03:12 AM

diehardbisdak

August 28th, 2007, 03:23 AM

...has anynone seen last night's airing of ABS-CBN's Current Affairs Program: NOYPI, 'IKAW BA 'TO Bai? (invades CEBU)..... buotan gyud mga Cebuano....hehehehehh!

SleMarKen

August 28th, 2007, 04:13 AM

^^Unsa may gi test sa mga taga Cebu bai?

Just wanna share pics here in Taipei.
Sa sidewalk ni sa usa ka street, pang tourist nya naay mga countries nga gi represent.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c201/Slerz/CIMG3993.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c201/Slerz/CIMG3991.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c201/Slerz/CIMG3987.jpg

Mootown

August 28th, 2007, 06:01 AM

...has anynone seen last night's airing of ABS-CBN's Current Affairs Program: NOYPI, 'IKAW BA 'TO Bai? (invades CEBU)..... buotan gyud mga Cebuano....hehehehehh!

Unsa may gi test sa mga taga Cebu bai?

Im going to try wake up early tomorrow morning and record noypi. I looked at the schedule for tomorrows TFC and noypi is at 6am ill try to wake up early and record it then ill post it on youtube so everyone can see here...

Sinjin P.

August 28th, 2007, 06:08 AM

Seriously, that Noypi: Ikaw ba 'to show and other similar shows should be placed on the primetime block (instead of those cheappo and dull soap operas).

rage@cebu

August 28th, 2007, 06:15 AM

Seriously, that Noypi: Ikaw ba 'to show and other similar shows should be placed on the primetime block (instead of those cheappo and dull soap operas).

only if you do own the station :lol: ... they know more how to market their shows.

Sinjin P.

August 28th, 2007, 06:17 AM

^ True. All those stations want is money, money, money. These shows (Noypi) could serve as good educational campaigns for the Pinoys :)

tj_brewed

August 28th, 2007, 06:30 AM

Ngutana lang ko mga migo, naa bay maayo nga housing project dapit sa dakbayan nga barato? Kanang pwede tag 3k MA kada bulan? ingna lang ko please.

^^ Yes...La Montana in the North and DECA in the South. it's less than 3k per month

Sinjin P.

August 28th, 2007, 06:33 AM

^ Lol. That Deca Homes in Talisay (or Minglanilla) and in Mactan have very aggressive marketing strategies. Every Sunday, may pamphlet about those projects na nilalagay sa ibabaw ng car namin :lol:

tj_brewed

August 28th, 2007, 06:49 AM

^^ yup...the floor area is kinda small baya pero ok na rin yun for typical Cebuanos who do not have the capacity to purchase properties from Sta Lucia, Taft, Ayala, Maria Luisa, Filinvest, Commonwealth and other mid to high end real estate developers.

Sinjin P.

August 28th, 2007, 08:59 AM

We will soon have a new 41,000sqm. Robinsons Mall

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/4305/robra7.jpg

elantonio

August 28th, 2007, 10:13 AM

Originally Posted by diehardbisdak View Post
...has anynone seen last night's airing of ABS-CBN's Current Affairs Program: NOYPI, 'IKAW BA 'TO Bai? (invades CEBU)..... buotan gyud mga Cebuano....hehehehehh! can see here...

Their social experiment on Taboan and Carbon came out surprisingly positive.

achernar

August 28th, 2007, 11:17 AM

We will soon have a new 41,000sqm. Robinsons Mall

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/4305/robra7.jpg

i don't understand the diagram.... what's the number (1) and the number (2)?

Sinjin P.

August 28th, 2007, 11:29 AM

^ That represents the quantity.

achernar

August 28th, 2007, 02:18 PM

leylander

August 28th, 2007, 02:42 PM

dili ba over na kadaghan ug cities for such a small island? sa ako lang na ha. you're free to get yourself heard. hehe

Coffee

August 28th, 2007, 03:21 PM

We will soon have a new 41,000sqm. Robinsons Mall

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/4305/robra7.jpg

Wow that is a horrible map of the Philippines. The arrows for Dumaguete and Bacolod are actually pointing at the Samar/Leyte area. :p

achernar

August 28th, 2007, 04:16 PM

dili ba over na kadaghan ug cities for such a small island? sa ako lang na ha. you're free to get yourself heard. hehe

unsa may problema ana???

it's an indicator of progress...:)

Jimbu

August 28th, 2007, 06:39 PM

Gaisano Capital eyeing expansions in the south (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=52&type=2&sec=71&aid=20070828185)
By Rhia de Pablo
The Freeman
Wednesday, August 29, 2007

As one of the pioneers in the retailing industry in Cebu, Gaisano shopping malls and supermarkets have become a household name having operated since early 70s and to keep with the pace of the changing times, the Gaisano Capital Group underscored future expansion and renovation plans.

In an exclusive interview with The Freeman, Gaisano Capital Group’s President Henry Sy Gaisano II revealed that soon by January they will start their renovation and expansion of the old Gaisano South in the city’s downtown area.

The Gaisano Capital Group’s Chief Executive Edmund Gaisano, Sr. belonged to the Gaisano clan who are known as the “Ayalas of the South” whose shopping malls are pervasive in the Visayas. The family matriarch Doña Modesta Gaisano founded the retail chain in the 1970s by opening a small restaurant-cum-shop on the ground floor of a rented house in Colon which later became the White Gold Department Store---predecessor of the Gaisano malls. Doña Modesta's five sons — David, Stephen, Henry, Victor, and John —helped her transform the business into a retail giant that it is today. In 1981, after the death of the matriarch, the corporation that ran the White Gold department stores was split into five, as the sons decided to go their separate ways but assigned territories to prevent family competition. Now, the family's mall chains are now run by the second-generation Gaisanos and their cousins.

As of the moment, Gaisano Capital Group has a new mall constructed in Pagadian which will be ready by next year. Henry Gaisano II also revealed that they will be opening up another branch in Tacloban City by next year to address the growing demand in the area as it is fast becoming urbanized and booming due to the influx of foreign tourist.

However, he pointed out that they are not yet eyeing future expansion plans in Cebu as they are focusing on expanding in the Southern regions first; but he says they are reviewing Cebu and not yet closing their options. He also said that the company is not threatened with the proliferation of new malls and commercial establishments in Cebu these days as they believe that, “we have a loyal market. They love us and we also love them and in return we provide them with more quality but affordable products.” He also emphasized that they believe in free enterprise and welcomes the friendly competition at hand.

The company these days is also focused on shifting to trendier fashion and coming up with unique but quality and affordable merchandise to cater to the growing demands of their target market which is the masses.

The Gaisano Capital Group now operates ten branches in Visayas and Mindanao, which includes: Fiesta Mall (Tabunok), Gaisano South, Gaisano Mactan, Gaisano Danao, Prince Club, and Carcar in Cebu.

flesh_is_weak

August 28th, 2007, 07:03 PM

Just wanna share pics here in Taipei.
Sa sidewalk ni sa usa ka street, pang tourist nya naay mga countries nga gi represent.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c201/Slerz/CIMG3993.jpg

kewl! looking at the pics, it seems that Manila is no longer the Philippines...Cebu is the Philippines...hehehe...kasagaran man gud Cebu ang naa na pics :)

Mootown

August 28th, 2007, 09:10 PM

...has anynone seen last night's airing of ABS-CBN's Current Affairs Program: NOYPI, 'IKAW BA 'TO Bai? (invades CEBU)..... buotan gyud mga Cebuano....hehehehehh!

^^Unsa may gi test sa mga taga Cebu bai?

Just wanna share pics here in Taipei.
Sa sidewalk ni sa usa ka street, pang tourist nya naay mga countries nga gi represent.

Noypi ikaw ba to?...
i woke up early this morning just to record this. This one is 25min long it went over the youtube limit of 10min so i uploaded it on to stage6.

http://stage6.divx.com/user/Videographer34/video/1576200/Noypi

needs divx to play

jrevalde

August 29th, 2007, 12:30 AM

^^tenk u beri much mootown

marxman

August 29th, 2007, 01:24 AM

yeah... many more cities in cebu... but hopefully the administrators of those soon to be cities have plans for the proper development...

i hope it will not follow the mistakes of cebu city(no proper urban plannng)

rage@cebu

August 29th, 2007, 03:12 AM

after Naga, maau unta ang Minglanilla na ang sunod na masyudad oi....

Ready na kaau ang MInglanilla... 1st class municipality na gud siya... one of the only two 1st-class municiplaities in Cebu at the present, together with Balamban.

Rep. Gullas, please hear this

pwede rxad... pero i hope the government will raise the income requirement to become a city, pwede na cguro 500M sa? ang income gni sa Cebu City real property tax lng ha kay 1.6Billion man gni...

rage@cebu

August 29th, 2007, 03:18 AM

this morning sa Banilad road... i have noticed the changes after implementation of new traffic schemes in the area (pero krn rko naka.picture), the chokepoints are the cause of concern... after the CITOM closed some chokepoints the traffic is flowing smoothly na. :cheers:

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140867.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1140865.jpg

the solution to put a flyover is good because it minimizes chokepoints in the area... most of the cars are just passing through the area rman gud....

jameslab8470

August 29th, 2007, 03:47 AM

rage@cebu

August 29th, 2007, 03:51 AM

Yup.. medyo okay gamay ang daloy ng trapik na sa Banilad road, except during 8:30 to 10 am, 2:30 to 3:30, and 4:pm to 6pm, but sometimes muabot to 7pm

Grabe gihapon ang trapik. pero at least, dili na 8 hours straight and traffic. hehee

that was 8am to 9am traffic bai while waiting for unionbank to open... gi.upload ra nko dri Netopia Banilad krn ang fotos... :)

diehardbisdak

August 29th, 2007, 04:17 AM

^^Unsa may gi test sa mga taga Cebu bai?

... left belonging like cellphones (all subjects passed this test)

... asking for directions / locations (all subject passed this test)

... giving back the change (money) after the customer forgot to ask for it...one lady from Larsian failed the test because she did not return the change even if the customer returned to the subject's store to buy another set of B-B-Q.... if not for the customer's reminder, she did not mind to give the money... the change is 80 pesos....

... lastly, there were questions being asked in the show about Cebu History: (a lot of people failed this test): For ex.: What date Magellan returned to Spain? (it's a trick question but most subjects answered: "i forgot my history subject") ..another question: What is Lapu-Lapu's family name? (no one was able to answer this question...one subject even answered, "city".....hehhehe!)
One scene when the crew was asking a boy: Who is that guy? (pointing to the statue of Lapu-Lapu)....the boy answered: Magellan?

Mootown

August 29th, 2007, 05:45 AM

... left belonging like cellphones (all subjects passed this test)

... asking for directions / locations (all subject passed this test)

... giving back the change (money) after the customer forgot to ask for it...one lady from Larsian failed the test because she did not return the change even if the customer returned to the subject's store to buy another set of B-B-Q.... if not for the customer's reminder, she did not mind to give the money... the change is 80 pesos....

... lastly, there were questions being asked in the show about Cebu History: (a lot of people failed this test): For ex.: What date Magellan returned to Spain? (it's a trick question but most subjects answered: "i forgot my history subject") ..another question: What is Lapu-Lapu's family name? (no one was able to answer this question...one subject even answered, "city".....hehhehe!)
One scene when the crew was asking a boy: Who is that guy? (pointing to the statue of Lapu-Lapu)....the boy answered: Magellan?

Heres the full video http://stage6.divx.com/user/Videographer34/video/1576200/Noypi

must have a divx player to play

Mootown

August 29th, 2007, 05:54 AM

^^tenk u beri much mootown
wala problema basta anything for cebu

Jarenz

August 29th, 2007, 07:41 AM

Jollibee in NRA

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u177/Jarenz_038/JollibeeNRA.jpg

slimer

August 29th, 2007, 01:16 PM

miaka_cham

August 29th, 2007, 02:08 PM

^_^ weee! thanks for the update @slimer! that's a good news indeed! ;)

@rage & @arnold, what's U/C at IT Park near CJRS bldg?(white fence) di ba you tried to ask when you went there? thanks! :)

Sinjin P.

August 29th, 2007, 03:01 PM

unsa may problema ana???

it's an indicator of progress...:)

No its not. Its like saying "Quality over Quantity" ;)

PINOYmeat

August 29th, 2007, 03:10 PM

cebu's tinagge! :lol: :lol: :lol:

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01643.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01642.jpg

PINOYmeat

August 29th, 2007, 03:25 PM

according to a taxi driver ive talked to a while ago, there is an ongoing hearing on the proposal for taxi's in cebu to issue receipts, this will be implemented daw next year... and it will be mandatory, i know some taxi's in cebu already issue receipts but if everything goes well, since it will be mandatory, all taxis in cebu will be issuing receipts na :banana:

PINOYmeat

August 29th, 2007, 04:31 PM

T4u8eYwVw6M

badian pa lang yan, just one of the many first class resorts in CEBU!

Onizuka01

August 29th, 2007, 07:48 PM

Source: Suntar
Thursday, August 30, 2007

Firm gets loan for condo

A Singapore-based property developer is confident it will be able to complete its high-end condominium project in Cebu next year.

This, after government-owned Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) granted the firm a loan amounting to P300 million.

“This signifies that the Philippine government helps in promoting foreign investments in the country by actively participating in the project,” said Syntech Properties Inc. (Syntech) chairman Eugene Yong Kon Yoon.

Syntech Properties Inc. and Cebu-grown contractor Primary Structures Corp. are the proponents of Citylights Gardens Condominium located in Nivel Hills, Barangay Busay, Cebu City.

Phase 2 of the project, estimated to be worth P1.3 billion, is set to be finished by the end of 2008. The P300-million loan from DBP will be used to partially finance the construction of the two towers in the second phase of the project.

Final phase

Towers 3 and 4, both 20-story buildings, will compose the second and final phase of the whole development.

The entire project has a combined investment of P2.3 billion.

Each tower in Phase 2 offers 108 units of two- and three-bedroom apartments. Sizes of the units range from 108 square meters to 140 square meters.

The 144 units comprising existing towers one and two, which were completed in 2000, have already been sold out, Yoon said.

He added that the buyers include local residents and foreigners who acquired the property mostly for rental purposes.

Rosalier Dagondon, DBP head for super region management office for Central Philippines 2, said the five-year term loan to Syntech is the first condominium-funded project of the bank in Cebu.

“Not biggest”

Syntech and DBP signed a finance loan agreement last Tuesday at the Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.

Dagondon said, though, the loan was “not the biggest in terms of amount.”

He said the bank’s financial assistance to Syntech is due to the company’s capacity to cater to dollar-earning markets, especially the overseas Filipino workers.

“We are involved in engagements that touch the lives of the people,” Dagondon said in an interview.

DBP supports long-term official development assistance funds to support projects in infrastructure and logistics, social services, micro and small medium enterprises, environment and commercial lending.

Yoon said after the project’s completion, Syntech will continue to look for high-end residential ventures in Cebu.

While he sees potentials in the condominium market, he said the demand for residential condominiums in Cebu is “slow.”:ohno:

“It’s not easy here, not like in Singapore where it’s dense,” he said.

This development, he said, prompted the modification of Syntech’s plan to construct only four towers instead of the seven
it originally planned. (MMM)

Onizuka01

August 29th, 2007, 07:51 PM

THE Chief Executive Officers (CEO) Club, a non-profit organization composed of top corporate decision-makers in the world, has chosen to expand its elite membership in the Philippines and will now start recruiting Cebuano CEOs.

“It’s a by-invitation only membership association,” CEO Club Philippines co-founder Susan Barlin said of the advocacy group that provides an opportunity for local and international CEOs from different industries to establish linkages and improve the quality and profitability of their enterprises through shared experience.

She said the Philippine chapter is the first in Southeast Asia.

“I believe now is the right time to open a chapter here because we have everything to offer plus more,” she said, citing the Filipinos’ hospitality, English proficiency, culture as well as the aggressiveness of the private and public sectors.

Barlin, in a press interview organized by the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corp. and the Department of Tourism 7 during the Filipiniana Night at the Marco Polo Plaza, said that because the club allows its members to expand globally by interacting directly with top executives from multinational companies, joining the group “is a chance that Cebuano CEOs shouldn’t miss.”

Qualifications

Barlin said CEOs who employ more than 100 people and have over P20 million in assets are qualified to join the club.

According to its website, members of the 30-year old entrepreneurial membership club are CEOs with businesses that earn above $2 million in annual sales. Its average club member has $20 million in annual sales. :nuts:

Membership fee is pegged at $250 annually.

The CEO Club has attracted international figures like Ted Turner, Fred Smith, Richard DeVos, Royal Little, Edson De Castro, Steve Forbes, Victor Kiam, David Neeleman, Pat McGovern, Michael Bloomberg and Donald Trump.

Its lifetime members are the founders of America Online, Jim Kimsey and Steve Case.

The club is comprised of more than 10,000 members from 25 delegations in the United States., Korea, United Arab Emirates and China.

Barlin, who was designated as a special envoy for investment and tourism promotion, said that because the club will be holding chapter meetings eight times a year, the Philippines and Cebu, in particular, can be a corporate meeting hub in Asia.

She said Cebu is a “very good candidate” with its proven track record as a business and leisure destination.

The next batch of CEO Club Philippines meetings will be held in Cebu this October.

Barlin also said the club is planning to develop a 70-hectare “CEO Island” in Buswanga, Palawan. The exclusive island will be venue of conferences of CEO Club chapters worldwide.:banana:

“Imagine holding meetings in your beach attire with your family members around,” she said.

She said the island is donated by Steve Tajanlangit while the development will be financed by the CEO Club Philippine chapter. It would be the first resort-type development by a chapter of the club, she added.

CEO Club Philippines has invited a hotel company to manage the island-resort as construction is expected to begin next year.

Barlin said the “CEO corporate island” will be another attraction, consisting of four villas, yachts and function rooms, among others. (MMM)

Ex!lE

August 30th, 2007, 02:43 AM

Cebu now adopts condo living
By Rhia de Pablo
Thursday, August 30, 2007

Due of the seeming change in the lifestyle and environment of Cebuanos, a mass housing developer believes that Cebu has achieved a level of urbanism and that the market is already appreciative of developments such as condominiums.

“Cebu is already catching up or if not in the center of international or world-class trend. I think the Cebu market has become sophisticated enough to appreciate condo living and that the place already achieved a certain level or sense or urbanism to a point that it has now become acceptable to live in a condominium,” said 8990 Housing Development Corporation’s President JJ B. Atencio in a recent interview with The Freeman.

The indications according to Atencio that the city has achieve urbanism is the change of Cebuano’s lifestyle and this urban phenomenon according to him could be accounted for by the observed practice of after hours shopping, proliferation of coffee shops and the high rate of “in-migration.”

“Today, supermarkets and shopping malls are full, there are lots of people eating out on ordinary days, restos are full on regular days, and it’s all because of a certain kind of lifestyle that is changing. The high rate of in-migration, the coming in of settlers from other places to relocate and live, brings in a lot of new and positive influences to Cebu that enables it to catch up with global trends,” he stressed.

He also added that “the general climate is booming and real estate is part of it. The boom in Cebu’s economy is an indication that Cebuanos are optimistic about their future and therefore they are already willing to invest in the real estate industry these days.”

So, seeing the huge potential advantage for real estate development at this point in time, 8990 Housing Development Corporation revealed future projects and its plan of going into medium rise condominium development. Atencio said that next year, they will be starting the construction of their four to five storey condominium building that would cater to the changing lifestyle of Cebuanos. The condos would be sold from one million pesos and below so as to still be aligned with their thrust of providing quality but affordable housing to the Filipino people.

For the past 18 years of operation in Cebu, 8990 Housing Development Corporation have had established strong presence in mass housing developments in Cebu with projects like the Deca Homes subdivisions located in Minglanilla, Danao, Mactan, Mandaue, Tisa, and Tunghaan.

“People are starting to realize that Cebu is not only a good place to relax and unwind but also an ideal place to work and live in,” Atencio said.

Ex!lE

August 30th, 2007, 02:47 AM

Mayor says wildlife conservation & industrialization can co-exist

Thursday, August 30, 2007

A group of wildlife enthusiasts has offered their expertise to help the city government preserve the wetland portion at the South Road Properties, which has already become a sanctuary to different kinds of migratory birds.

The offer of Wild Bird Club of the Philippines was very much welcomed by Mayor Tomas Osmeña, who said the city would do its best to preserve the wetland even if economic locators would occupy the 296-hectare facility in the future.

Osmeña admitted that one of his greatest fears is that the birds might be driven away once the investors are already occupying the area.

“We will try to keep where it is. We will set aside something for birds even if we develop SRP for the investors,” Osmeña said.

“We are the only real estate development in the country that attracted wildlife,” something he said he takes pride on.

“Ever since I’m a child, I have never seen a wild duck in Cebu City, not even in the province. Now it’s in the SRP,” he said.

With this, he said that the city would be spending around P100 million to develop the wetland portion at Pond B by deepening the excavation converting it into a small lake.

He said the city would develop it in such a way that when it rains, the water would be directed towards the excavation so there would be water in the area throughout the year for the birds.

In fact, Osmeña said that he is planning to go to Hong Kong to study how they attract wildlife even if they are considered one of the most industrialized countries in the world. “I think it is important that we look at the models, otherwise we will just be guessing,” he said.

Officials of the WBCP yesterday paid the mayor a visit at the City Hall to inform him on their preparations for the celebration of the 3rd Philippine Bird Festival on September 21-22 that would be hosted by Cebu City. The city government is one of the sponsors of the festival which is aimed at promoting wildlife awareness, especially birds.

Michael Lu, WBCP president, said they have chosen Cebu City to host the 3rd Bird Festival because Cebu is home to several endemic bird species, yet a very few people know about them. “We want to increase awareness of Cebuanos on birds,” he said. — Wenna A. Berondo/MEEV

diehardbisdak

August 30th, 2007, 03:43 AM

^^ hay, bisan unsa na lang nahuna-hunaan ni Tomas.... i hope unahon niya ang cleanliness and orderliness in the city...malipay gyud ko...hehehehhehe! ...gihugawan na kaayo ko sa atong siyudad sa sugbo....

dabert

August 30th, 2007, 07:41 AM

Another epidose of dabert's camfotography.. =D

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h110/dabert/Cebu%20Pics/2007_0830/xPIC005.jpg
Sheraton hotel soon to be managed by Accor Sofitel

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h110/dabert/Cebu%20Pics/2007_0830/xPIC009.jpg
hehe. SM Foodcourt. i think they recently changed their logo.

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h110/dabert/Cebu%20Pics/2007_0830/xPIC024.jpg
view from Golden Peak

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h110/dabert/Cebu%20Pics/2007_0830/xPIC022.jpg
another one

dabert

August 30th, 2007, 07:44 AM

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h110/dabert/Cebu%20Pics/2007_0830/xPIC015.jpg
this could be the result if only the widening of Escario st. extension pursued..

chixy

August 30th, 2007, 08:21 AM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1297/1247750416_0d863659eb.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1149/1246895893_c0e41a2680.jpg?v=0

limpyo kaau noh?

asa na dapita?:)

chixy

August 30th, 2007, 08:28 AM

i think the fire victims were already relocated to the other side...;)

chixy

August 30th, 2007, 08:33 AM

technoblaze

August 30th, 2007, 08:50 AM

^^
Quote:
Originally Posted by achernar
para nako nindot na jud unta ang CEBU CITY... naa siyay capacity to become like HONG KONG or SINGAPORE pero naa jud 1 ka problem...

ang nakabati kay ang CEBU CITY wala jud urban planning... bati kaau ang routa sa karsada, mao nang traffic kaau... bati ang urban planning... ang mga residential area kay nasagol sa commercial districts and vice versa... i hope a solution would be made on this...

korek...not only ang routa sa karsada also d drivers...bsag asa lng jud mu pick-up...grabeh jud kau ang pa-ugatay...but anyway, its der way of living...:ohno:

another problem: the sqatters beside the business parks... and the dirty utility wires of telephone companies.

animasola

August 30th, 2007, 11:13 AM

@dabert

great pics! nindot man diay ang view gikan sa golden peak.

I can imagine 10 years from now, the CBP will have more buildings and a shot from the same point and angle would be spectacular.

great184

August 30th, 2007, 11:56 AM

Carbon demolition Shanties destroyed; 50 families dislocated

By Diana Luar
Cebu Daily News
Last updated 11:30am (Mla time) 08/30/2007

CEBU City, Philippines - A Cebu City demolition team has removed all forms of obstruction which have delayed the construction of a ramp that will connect the three Carbon public market buildings.

The team tore open a fence that Young Builders Corp. built to cordon Unit II and demolished makeshift structures that some 50 urban poor families had built nearby.

The cleared area allows WT Construction to start the construction of a P135-million ramp from the vicinity of Quezon Boulevard to a portion of M. C. Briones Street.

But the demolition was enforced without providing the affected families with a relocation site.

“How can we build our homes when the city has yet to release the housing materials that they have promised us? They are very slow in processing the release of our housing materials but quick in demolishing our makeshift shanties,” said a resident.

Ermita barangay councilor Leopoldo Empedal said the families took shelter in Unit II after the May 8 fire that burned their shanties in sitio Bato. Yesterday's demolition left them with nowhere else to go, he said.

“I will discuss that (need for a relocation site) with (City Administrator Francisco) Bimbo (Fernandez). We can't push them back there (sitio Bato) because it's watery,” said Mayor Tomas Osmeña when sought for comment shortly after the demolition began at 10 a.m.

Children have been getting sick because of the unsanitary surroundings, the mayor said.

Osmeña said he wants sitio Bato which is located along the coastal area, covered with filling materials before he allows occupants to rebuild their burnt shanties.

Fernandez said Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation also wants to help the affected families build more decent housing units.

The city government also plans to build a school in the area, he said. But Fernandez said, it will take awhile before all these may be implemented since permits to reclaim land are required from the Public Estates Authority and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Clinton Bihoco, a butcher, said he lived in the makeshift shanty he built himself near unit II for at least four months. He and some neighbors watched as a bulldozer uprooted their shanties made from pieces of used lumber, bamboo poles and plastic.

Bihoco said he is worried about his family's safety now that their makeshift shanty has been demolished.

The mayor later allowed them to return to sitio Bato and ordered the filling up of the watery portion of sitio Bato pending their application for permits.

The mayor also scrapped plans to build a school there to allow Bato residents enough space to rebuild their shanties.

But the city will not budge on its decision to get rid of Young Builders which had worked on the foundation of Unit II during the administration of former mayor Alvin Garcia.

The previous administration wanted to rebuild Unit II that was burned by a fire in 1998.

Young Builders is charging the city government P6 million more than the P22 million project cost, but Osmeña will not pay.

Because of this, Young Builders has refused to vacate Unit II. They also installed GI sheets on Tuesday, to fence the area and prevent the entry of City Gall personnel.A bulldozer tore down the fence yesterday. / with reports from Reporter Doris C. Bongcac

dabert

August 30th, 2007, 12:27 PM

@dabert

great pics! nindot man diay ang view gikan sa golden peak.

I can imagine 10 years from now, the CBP will have more buildings and a shot from the same point and angle would be spectacular.

indeed.., i was actually on the rooftop when i took those. if only CBP was bigger in such a way that you would have to rotate your head 180 degress just to view all of it, then that's :nuts: hehe
but still, when you're facing the opposite side of the building, you can see that there still has much to be done with regards to shanties.. i hope the gov't can find an area where all squatters can be relocated. :)

Sinjin P.

August 30th, 2007, 12:40 PM

^ Nice photos David! Btw, does the rooftop give you a 360 degree view of the city?

flesh_is_weak

August 30th, 2007, 12:56 PM

i saw a large graffiti along Jones Avenue that said in bold red paint :KOREANS DIE!

dabert

August 30th, 2007, 01:22 PM

^ Nice photos David! Btw, does the rooftop give you a 360 degree view of the city?

nope because the structure that houses the tall antenna and the entrance to the rooftop is quite huge. so the main viewing deck of the rooftop only gives you just about 180 degrees. but you can still extend your body over the fence to view the hidden side. that's what i did when i took a pic of the CBP area. you know, when there's a will, there's a way.. ahehe :D

Sinjin P.

August 30th, 2007, 01:28 PM

Well I don't have a will, I'm afraid of heights :rofl:

habagatcentral1

August 30th, 2007, 01:51 PM

I heard that they will remove the Talamban jeepneys plying the route if the bus service proceeds.

And I also heard from ABSCBN that the displaced jeepneys will be relocated to new or underserved routes.

Hopefully one of the routes to be added will be the Mandaue Reclamation Area, because its quite isolated.

elantonio

August 30th, 2007, 02:14 PM

i saw a large graffiti along Jones Avenue that said in bold red paint :KOREANS DIE!

:ohno:
This gives a bad rap to Cebu.

rage@cebu

August 30th, 2007, 05:03 PM

good news! construction of this building has resumed. i passed by today and noticed some workers there.

gi.offeran gni mi nila ug contract nga 1Million para resto sapce sa building... we declined the offer knowing that the lot is govt. property from an insider... the lot is still in court unya bsin ma "quits" amu contract kung ma.daog ang government...

slimer

August 30th, 2007, 05:15 PM

that's the problem with the lots in lapulapu. no clear titles.

btw, there will be another jollibee branch set to open in fooda in consolacion.
grabe ning jolibee oist!

LordCarnal

August 30th, 2007, 06:29 PM

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h110/dabert/Cebu%20Pics/2007_0830/xPIC024.jpg
view from Golden Peak

Nice photos daBert, gamita nya tung cam sa SSC ay... ambot sad asa na tu karon, I think naa kay teacher Bernie, haha :nuts:

..

LordCarnal

August 30th, 2007, 06:32 PM

Photos by annewor (http://annewor.multiply.com) of Multiply.com

Waterfalls in Cebu City.. You can see this past Mr.A's.
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b396/arnoldsa/waterfalls.jpg

City view
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b396/arnoldsa/cebucityaerial.jpg

Citylights Condo
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b396/arnoldsa/citylights.jpg

Cebu Capitol
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b396/arnoldsa/capitol.jpg

Mactan Bridge
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b396/arnoldsa/mactan_bridge.jpg

tj_brewed

August 30th, 2007, 09:50 PM

"Millions of ants are killed everyday. Help save the ants from extinction! Ants
have animal rights too! "

^^ ahahahahahahahha :lol:

Ex!lE

August 31st, 2007, 02:29 AM

Cebu deemed good expansion site
By Ehda M. Dago-oc
Friday, August 31, 2007

TWELVE chief executive officers (CEOs) from various companies around the globe consider Cebu as a good investment site for expansion.

This after a group of CEOs visited the province in a two-day tour, which was part of the itinerary of the Philippine visit of the CEO Club International.

Cebu’s promising environment for leisure and investments caught the interest of the international league of decision makers as majority of the group heads Information Technology companies in their respective countries.

“I see a great potential in the Philippines, and I intend to do something in Cebu,” said Harikiram Vallurupalli president and CEO of RedSala Technologies, a software development company based in the United States.

Michael Dancin president of National Data Conversion, also based in the US, said he sees a huge potential in the Philippines, and Cebu has impressed him saying “I am excited about the prospects in the Philippines, and Cebu. I am thinking of expanding my operations here.”

The good English speaking people here and hospitality also impressed the president and CEO of a Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) head of Global Data Source, Doughlas Angelo Strouse.

Strouse said he is looking at the good labor forces in the Philippines, and his brief visit in Cebu fueled his interest to expand and set up operations in the country.

For his part, Tariq Ahmed Nizami, CEO of F. Kamber Holdings said “I love the hospitality and business environment in Cebu.”

The CEO Club International visit to the Philippines was hosted by the Department of Tourism (DOT), under the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC).

The Philippine visit was organized by Susan Barlin, co-founder of CEO Club Philippines, and owner of the Barlin Group of Companies in the US.

She said CEO Club International is going to take an aggressive move in Asia Pacific, using the Philippines as its point of entry.

The brief visit in Cebu which was partly leisure component turned into an investment exploration and building up of CEO Club International-Cebu chapter.

Other delegates included; David Trueblood, CEO of Millennium International, Peter Paragas, CEO of Paragas International Corporation, Patricia Ann Coleine, CEO of Coleine Consulting, Nadine Cino, CEO of Tyga Box, other delegates also were Filipino-Americans who are active in the CEO Club International and wives of the CEO delegates.
Other delegates were CEOs from companies based in India, USA, United Arab Emirates, and China.

In a welcome dinner hosted by DOT at the Marco Polo Plaza held early this week, the delegates were met by the leaders of the Cebu business community led by Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) president Francis O. Monera.
Cebuano businessman Manuel Osmeña, the owner of GoldLand Development Corporation (GDC), the company that developed the Cebu Hilton Resort and Spa, is eyed to lead the CEO International Club-Cebu Chapter.

CEO Club International is a 30-year old organization that started in New York. Now it has over 10,000 CEO members worldwide. It is the word’s oldest and largest non-profit educational association for CEOs and entrepreneurs. Membership is by invitation only.

Ex!lE

August 31st, 2007, 02:32 AM

Tomas eyes limiting height of buildings in Talamban area

Friday, August 31, 2007

After imposing a moratorium on development in the Banilad area, Mayor Tomas Osmeña now wants to implement a “break” in Talamban, which imposes height limitations on buildings constructed there.

The other day, the mayor has ordered the city planning office to limit all buildings that would be constructed in Talamban to four stories only to put a stop to “over development” in the northern part of the city.

Nigel Paul Villarete, city planning and development coordinator yesterday said that Osmeña had given him instructions to implement a break in Talamban by imposing height limitations on the buildings that would be constructed there.

Villarete told The Freeman that Mayor Osmeña wants a “controlled growth” in the Banilad-Talamban area to decongest traffic in the northern part of the city, specifically along Gov. Mariano Cuenco Avenue.

“This is based on the previous discussions that we have. He wanted to put development control in the area for controlled growth,” he said.

Villarete said that the mayor wants to implement the policy as soon as he comes up with specific guidelines on how to implement it, and get the approval of the City Council.

“The mayor wants to implement height limitations to buildings that would be constructed in Talamban because the higher the building, the bigger the traffic that it would generate,” Villarete added.

Earlier, Osmeña had also imposed a moratorium on major development projects in the Banilad area to regulate the development due to the “unbalanced growth” in the city.

He explained that for the past several years, “there were many developments along that narrow road” all the way up to Talamban and Pit-os.

In support to the mayor’s decision, the City Council passed a resolution freezing all developments in the Banilad area, including a plan by the provincial government to put up a commercial complex called Ciudad.

Villarete said that the mayor does not only want to limit the height of the buildings that would be constructed in the Banilad area but also to implement other measures to contain growth in the area.

However, Villarete said that he is still preparing the specific guidelines on how to implement them and these will be presented to the City Council for legislation.

Osmeña said the moratorium would stay while the City Traffic Operations Management is still conducting a traffic impact study in the area to determine the causes of the traffic congestion and how the city could address the problem.

At present, a portion of Gov. Cuenco Avenue from Mahiga Bridge near the Gaisano Country Mall to Foodland Complex is under the “No Fault Zone,” which means that all the traffic regulations of the city are implemented there.

Mayor Osmeña is also pushing for the construction of the P150 million flyover at the intersection of Foodland Complex and A.S. Fortuna Street, which he foresees as one of the solutions to the traffic problem in Banilad.

But the proposed project became controversial after it received strong opposition from the landowners and businessmen in the area who fear that it will affect their business establishments. — Wenna A. Berondo/QSB

Ex!lE

August 31st, 2007, 02:40 AM

Planners cite causes of traffic in City

Friday, August 31, 2007
The increase in the number of private and public utility vehicles plying city streets and the absence of road improvements for quite some time now is the cause of the traffic congestion in Cebu City.

This was the findings during a seminar-workshop on environmentally sustainable transport for Cebu City held at UP-Cebu College yesterday, which was attended by urban planning and traffic experts and planning and development officers of the cities of Cebu, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue and Talisay.

The participants said that fast-growing cities like Cebu should implement road improvements and try innovations to address traffic problems.

Cebu City planning and development coordinator Nigel Paul Villarete said that the car growth rate in Metro Manila is almost the same with Metro Cebu, being the second largest metropolis outside Luzon. He, however, said that there have been no road improvements here despite the increase in the car growth rate.

Dr. Noriel Christopher Tiglao, assistant professor of the National College of Public Administration and Governance of the University of the Philippines said that there is an increasing growth rates for private cars and motorcycles in Metro Manila and very high increase in number of for-hire motorcycles.

He cited that from 1990 to 1995, the growth rate of motorcycles stood at 7.8 percent from 50,159 in 1990 to 73,014 in 1995 while the growth rate of cars was at 6.7 percent from 297,094 in 1990 to 410,814 in 1995.

Data from the City Traffic Operations Management show that there are 8,329 public utility jeepneys; 5,788 taxi units and 952 buses and mini buses operating in Cebu City.

On the other hand, Mandaue City has 2,085 PUJs; 1211 tricycles; 597 motorcycles for hire and 220 buses.

The UP-National Center for Transportation Studies said Cebu City should develop cooperation with its neighboring cities and even the national government to effectively address the traffic problems.

Tiglao said that local governments like Cebu City, Mandaue City, Lapu-Lapu City and Talisay City should harmonize their traffic management policies to achieve greater transport network efficiency.

He added that these LGUs should cluster and work at the “meso” scale to find solutions to the traffic problems.

Villarete said Cebu City couldn’t make a traffic plan as a single entity because it has also to consider the traffic situation in its neighboring cities.

“We can’t plan in Cebu City as a single entity because we have to talk to Mandaue and Talisay because we are one. Whether we like it or not, we belong to the same island,” he said.

Most of the vehicles that cause traffic in Cebu City are from the neighboring cities and the province because Cebu City is the center of commerce and trade and most of the national government agencies are located here. — Wenna A. Berondo/QSB

habagatcentral1

August 31st, 2007, 04:23 AM

Nice photos daBert, gamita nya tung cam sa SSC ay... ambot sad asa na tu karon, I think naa kay teacher Bernie, haha :nuts:
..

Dong, naa man pud guro nimo. Kay ari ko Iloilo for 2 weeks now. Basin naa kay Mike. :)

Sinjin P.

August 31st, 2007, 04:58 AM

Do any of the SSC Cebu members have a DSLR camera?

Sinjin P.

August 31st, 2007, 06:03 AM

@Exile: Next time, please provide a link to the sources of your articles. Thanks :)

Woes ‘may wipe Lapu off map’ (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/08/31/news/woes.may.wipe.lapu.off.map..html)

IF these persist, the problems of garbage, squatting and corruption will put an end to Mactan Island’s success as a tourist destination, a business leader warned in a forum. :ohno:

Ephraim Pelaez, Mactan Island Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) president, said that resort owners are already starting to feel the impact. :ohno:

In a good governance forum at the University of Cebu last Wednesday, he urged local government officials to act, saying the island cannot remain a tourism magnet if initiatives are left solely to the private sector.

But Lapu-Lapu City Administrator Teodulo Ybañez, in a separate interview, said keeping the city clean and garbage-free is not an “all-government affair.”

“The City cannot do it alone. The people can do their part by carrying out waste segregation. We have dumping points along barangay roads. All they have to is bring the garbage to these sites. Garbage collection cannot be a house-to-house affair,” Ybañez said.

“We intend to implement the law (Solid Waste Management Act) and ordinances. Our efforts include meeting with stakeholders, barangay chiefs and collectors,” he said.

The MICCI has resorted to “affirmative action” to push the local government unit of Lapu-Lapu City into doing someting, but Pelaez said they “haven’t been as successful as they would have wanted to be.”

The business group took out one-page advertisements in local newspapers showing photographs of garbage piles in each of Lapu-Lapu’s barangays. :ohno:

Ybañez said City Hall has kept its doors open to Pelaez’s group. But until now, the businessman has yet to talk or meet with City Government officials, he added.

“He (Pelaez) is trying to destroy Mayor Arturo Radaza and the city itself. His move is counter-productive. We don’t want to engage in a media war. We are ready to talk to him. But he has not come to us yet,” the city administrator told Sun.Star Cebu.

In the same forum last Wednesday, Pelaez said the growth of tourism in Mactan has been purely because of the private sector.

“There is no government infrastructure for tourism there. There isn’t even a government information desk,” he said. :ohno: “It was only because we hosted the Asean Summit that Mactan got a few kilometers of asphalt. After (the summit), it was back to reality.” :ohno:

Pelaez said they’ve also tried to raise public awareness on the problem of squatting by showing in some public venues www.googlearth.com satellite photographs of “squatter colonies.” :bow:

In reaction, Ybañez said, “There are a lot of squatters. Look at Cebu, Mandaue or those in Luzon. Why single out Lapu-Lapu?”

“That’s the reality of the economic condition of the whole country, not just Lapu-Lapu,” he said. (I don't like this attitude of "they have so why can't we?" They have squatters so why can't we have squatters? :bash:)

Ybañez said the City Government also plans to develop the areas under the two Mactan bridges into an “ocean town.” Really? Or is this just another promise and pa-gwapo effect?

Squatting, Pelaez said, can be resolved by preventing existing colonies from further expanding and resettling them in places from the main tourism sector.

“The government has lost a lot of money in anomalous transactions. The amount would have gone a long way into resettlement,” he said, adding that one of those P85,000 Asean lampposts is enough to build one home with Gawad Kalinga.

The MICCI, he said, managed to secure accreditation from the anti-graft office as a Corruption Prevention Unit so they could monitor government transactions at City Hall, in an attempt to ensure public service.

“We are often given the runaround,” :ohno: Pelaez lamented.

He cited as example a letter they sent City Hall asking for copies of certain documents, in response to a survey showing how some businessmen allegedly have to pay certain officials to get a business permit.

“We get a letter telling us to get the document from somewhere else because it already got turned over. And when we contacted that agency, we were told that no such document has been turned over,” :bash: Pelaez said.

In one instance, Lapu-Lapu City Attorney Joseph Vincent Lim wrote the MICCI back and reportedly asked it to show proof that it is a legitimate corruption prevention unit accredited by the anti-graft office.

But Ybañez said corruption is present not just in the government but also in the private sector. He said Pelaez should also look at himself before criticizing the City Government.

“Take the case of Pelaez’s Marina Mall, look if the garbage there is segregated. As for Marina Mall Holdings, would you believe its capitalization is only P700,000?” Ybañez said in a phone interview.

In an earlier interview, Mayor Radaza said he has nothing against the business group and that he appreciates their concern and effort.

“But each of us should have an open mind to willingly help each other,” :okay:Radaza said.

Sinjin P.

August 31st, 2007, 06:22 AM

Marine sanctuary to be launched (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/08/31/life/marine.sanctuary.to.be.launched.html)

A five-hectare beachfront will be formally launched as a marine sanctuary on Sept. 1.

Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa Cebu’s marine sanctuary was formally established by the Lapu-Lapu City Council, which approved City Ordinance 425-B-2006 last Nov. 26.

The Shangri-La Marine Sanctuary Stewardship Group was formed and is composed of the resort, Scotty’s Action Sports Network and Dive Centre and Amores Charities Inc., which will share the responsibility of protecting the area.

An agreement with the Lapu-Lapu City government was signed to grant the group 15 years of stewardship rights for the sanctuary’s management.

“This partnership between Shangri-La’s Marine Sanctuary Stewardship Group and the City of Lapu-Lapu strengthens our mutual commitment as environmental stewards to ensure the safety and sustainability of our waters,” said Timothy Wright, general manager of Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa Cebu. “We are fully committed to helping protect and preserve the environment, and it is our belief that responsibility lies not just in offering excellent quality of service-related products, but more so in being good, proactive stewards of the very environment in which we operate.”

Project launch

Last Feb. 12, US Ambassador Kristie Kenney officially launched the Shangri-La Marine Sanctuary project, along with guest of honor, noted biologist and television celebrity, Professor David Bellamy.

Kenney, together with Wright, Lapu-Lapu City First Lady Paz Radaza and World Wildlife Fund president Lory Tan signed a ceremonial buoy which was then cast to the shore of the marine sanctuary.

After the ceremonial signing, the sanctuary was closed for six months to allow the corals to recover and for schools of fish to “breathe” and propagate.

The resort’s employees and guests were encouraged to participate in coral recovery programs and monthly sanctuary cleaning.