Cebú City and Province [Archive] - Page 136

flesh_is_weak

September 24th, 2007, 02:30 PM

^^ It would be absolutely great if Cebu could come up with a communications tower; ala Orient TV Pearl Tower [Shanghai], CN Tower [Toronto], Tokyo Tower [Tokyo], or Eiffel Tower [Paris]. It should be located beside Chateau de Busay or somewhere near that area.

That'd truly make Cebu, the proud owner of the first truly world-class skyline in Pinas. :banana: :pepper:

^ The Metro Manila skyline is a world class skyline by all means. I think you're trying to say that Philippine skylines lack "iconic" structures to complete the skylines. :yes:

IMO, a really tall commnications tower, although aesthetically pleasing, wont be that necessary in Cebu...CN Tower for example was built due to the fact that Toronto's high-rises and relative 'flatness' made it difficult to transmit TV signals...Cebu however still lacks a significant cluster of skyscrapers that could potentially block TV signals, and of course, there's always the majestic backdrop of mountains upon which a not so tall tower could do the trick of providing crystal clear transmissions...

if Cebu should have an iconic and tall tower, perhaps it could be an office tower/mixed used that not only rocks in height, but with a really cool design...(SSC-Cebu Corporate HQ? :))

Jarenz

September 24th, 2007, 05:10 PM

if Cebu should have an iconic and tall tower, perhaps it could be an office tower/mixed used that not only rocks in height, but with a really cool design...(SSC-Cebu Corporate HQ? :))

Soon!!!:lol: :lol: :lol:

animasola

September 24th, 2007, 05:48 PM

IMO we need something like the Space Needle of Seatle. :D

Ex!lE

September 25th, 2007, 01:54 AM

Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Cebu as ‘benchmark’ for growth (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/09/25/bus/cebu.as.benchmark.for.growth..html)

WITH their thrust to create a long-term development plan for Cebu, business sector representatives are initiating the formation of a “coalition foundation.”

The master plan, dubbed Cebu 2030, is geared at making Cebu a benchmark for economic growth and political stability, making it the most livable place in the country.

It also aims to highlight the province as the one with the most productive and educated workforce 23 years from now.

The two-day forum, which had the theme “Cebu-The Future is Ours,” sought to answer “What is it that we want Cebu to become by 2030?”

This was the proposal discussed during the vision and strategic planning forum or think tank chaired by economist Jesus Estanislao.

Estanislao said Cebu’s lack of a long-term development plan was what pushed the realization of the master plan.

“There is lack of coordination. Every person does his own way,” he said.

Cebu Business Club (CBC) president Dondi Joseph said the proposed Cebu 2030 is composed of steps that are “time-bound, measurable and actionable” and hopes to make Cebu as the model for good governance and government.

“We want to bring the Cebu 2030 to something more practical. It’s not going to be your normal strategic plan,” Joseph said.

Earlier, CBC identified five specific concerns affecting Cebu’s business environment, like the inadequacy of infrastructure and transportation, power shortage, water shortage, poor quality of education and the lack of good governance.

“This will be an updated and implementable strategy to push the development of Cebu into the most competitive and respected province in the Philippines,” Joseph said.

Solidarity

Estanislao said unity and solidarity of both private and public sectors will be among the most urgent issues that need to be addressed first.

Joseph expressed delight on the efforts of local government leaders, like Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña, who met with leaders in the business community to discuss viable long-term developments for Cebu.

Although the coalition was business sector-led, Joseph said the group does not limit itself to businessmen alone.

“This group does not want to work in spite of government but we want to function with the government and all other sectors
in Cebu,” he said. (MMM)

Ex!lE

September 25th, 2007, 02:18 AM

WAFS installed in Cebu by October To enhance weather prediction, safer air travel (http://www.mb.com.ph/PROV20070925103968.html)

MADEL R. SABATER

State weather bureau Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA — DOST) is set to install a World Area Forecast System (WAFS) in Cebu next month to help enhance the weather prediction en route an aircraft’s destination.

PAGASA officer-in-charge (OIC) of the Meteorological Telecommunication Section Jun Palcon said a WAFS is set "for installation" in Cebu this October.

WAFS is a software developed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) to improve quality and consistency of en route guidance provided for international aircraft operations.

Also called the Aviation Information System (AvIS), the WAFS provides "specialized weather data information to aviation operations, "including the early detection of hazardous weather systems, which could cause danger to air traffic."

It also features the provision of aeronautical data for regular flight operations, including the issuance of wind forecasts for the different air routes to "enable pilots and dispatchers calculate the expected fuel requirements of each flight."

The software includes wind and temperature forecasts from six to 36 hours in the future, updated at least twice daily; high-level significant weather charts; wind and temperature charts additional data, among others. The WAFS Global Satellite Broadcasts have been operational since 1996.

The WAFS in Cebu will be installed at the Mactan International Airport. PAGASA is developing Cebu as its redundant station.

A similar software will also be installed in Pampanga, particularly at the Clark International Airport, by the end of the year.

A WAFS is currently installed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Palcon said that no WAFS is yet to be installed in Mindanao area. However, the weather bureau intends to put up WAFS in all airports in the country to further enhance weather forecasting, particularly for the domestic and international aviation industries.

Earlier this month, the weather bureau had installed a "Visualization Processor software" in its Central Office in Quezon City which shortens plotting and analysis time, which PAGASA plotters and forecasters used to do manually.

A tropical cyclone module developed by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology was also installed at the PAGASA Central Office last month.

The Tropical Cyclone Module enables a very quick computation of tropical cyclone forecast track.

Other major softwares and receiving systems acquired by PAGASA this year include the Multi-Function Transport Satellite (MTSAT) receiving system, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) receiving system, and the Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectrodiometer (MODIS).

habagatcentral1

September 25th, 2007, 06:18 AM

great184

September 25th, 2007, 06:36 AM

pangdanon island... i was able to dive around the entire island... although the other side is full of fisherfolks! it is already part of Bohol Province...

Where in Bohol is pangdanon island located?

elantonio

September 25th, 2007, 08:17 AM

Mga bai,

Does anyone of you know how much does it cost to go to Islas Camotes? Is there a very spartan, very affordable yet comfy accommodation?

How to go there and what are the schedules of ferries available. Thanks kaayo! :)

Start ka sa Danao, dili sya ferry, may large pumboat dira going to Camotes. 150-200 man siguro to ang fare, 4 hours ang trip. Santiago bay resort is a nice place to visit. 1k man siguro to ila room, good for 4. Naay family didto nga duol sa beach nga mo-offer sila nga muluto so maka-save namo sa inyo foods.

Sinjin P.

September 25th, 2007, 08:37 AM

habagatcentral1

September 25th, 2007, 08:41 AM

^^ Mahal kaayo para sa shoestring budget nako Sinjin. I would prefer to go there unplanned and explore the place as it is (without those festivals or everything touristy...its quite artificial) in its raw and natural way of things.

Thanks for giving me the info @Elantonio and @Sinjin.:)

pnggirl

September 25th, 2007, 09:08 AM

wow ka nice sa cebu uy. I miss my city. Btw guys , i want to post something pero unsaon man? teach me please.

What do you mean to post something? Is it a photo/pictures? Sorry I dont know too girl. Can Somebody help islandergirl please?:dunno: :dunno:

islandergirl

September 25th, 2007, 09:25 AM

What do you mean to post something? Is it a photo/pictures? Sorry I dont know too girl. Can Somebody help islandergirl please?:dunno: :dunno:

Youre right girl, i want to post the interior part (renderng)of Parkmall@168 .We already saw the exterior , right? Its awesome guys.:banana: :banana: :banana: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :banana: :banana: :banana: Please help me guys on how to post a photo or pictures ?

Sinjin P.

September 25th, 2007, 09:26 AM

^ Here's a thorough tutorial on how to post photos here: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=458527 :)

islandergirl

September 25th, 2007, 09:29 AM

^ Here's a thorough tutorial on how to post photos here: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=458527 :)

Thanks Sinj , I will try .

PINOYmeat

September 25th, 2007, 09:29 AM

dang! post it post it! pleaaase! i'll wait for the it! i will not log out till i dont see the rendering. but hey, i hope its nice, pero kung mukhang tiangge lang din, awww, ok lang din :lol:

Sinjin P.

September 25th, 2007, 09:30 AM

^ Yeah, I'm also intrigued as to what we'll expect to see inside this much awaited Parkmall@168. Construction on the mall is really on full swing but I bet it won't open by December 2007.

PINOYmeat

September 25th, 2007, 09:34 AM

islander... i have an idea, i send mo na lang kaya sa akin then i'll do the honor of posting it :lol: (joke!) you should have the credits po, kaya bilis! heh

rage@cebu

September 25th, 2007, 09:38 AM

Sinjin P.

September 25th, 2007, 09:39 AM

^ The initial problem would be transportation but I am confident it would be attended to immediately now that a lot of establishments are silently mushrooming around the area

islandergirl

September 25th, 2007, 09:40 AM

islander... i have an idea, i send mo na lang kaya sa akin then i'll do the honor of posting it :lol: (joke!) you should have the credits po, kaya bilis! heh

sorry guys ha, naglisod man ko ug post uy, well what you do , is to open thier website ug makita ninyo didto ang iyang interiors . and please post it too, thanks.

Sinjin P.

September 25th, 2007, 09:41 AM

^ I'm having problems accessing their website :(

PINOYmeat

September 25th, 2007, 09:46 AM

whats their website... err, is this proper? posting their website here?

Sinjin P.

September 25th, 2007, 09:47 AM

www.parkmall168.com It doesn't load here :(

rage@cebu

September 25th, 2007, 09:47 AM

^ The initial problem would be transportation but I am confident it would be attended to immediately now that a lot of establishments are silently mushrooming around the area

it depends sa market. would you go sa NRA kung wala kang sariling transpo? it would be nice to hang.out where people like me hang.out... i usually hang.out nga sa Caltex Station, and i think the new mall wants to tap this market... "mga laagan" nga "palahubog" :cheers:

i cannot access their website xad...

PINOYmeat

September 25th, 2007, 10:42 AM

Asia, Europe top outsourcing destinations
Nineteen Asian, 12 East and Central European cities among Top 50 emerging outsourcing cities

NEW YORK, US: Asia and East Europe have emerged as the favored destinations for IT and BPO outsourcing, with 19 Asian and 12 East and Central European nations dominating the list of the Top 50 emerging outsourcing cities globally, according to the study revealed by Global Services, a magazine for global sourcing of IT and BPO services and Tholons, an investment advisory firm.

"Global Services sees the Top 50 emerging cities grabbing a much bigger chunk of the global IT and BPO services pie in the next three years," said Juhi Bhambal, editor of Global Services.

The study lists Bangalore, New Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), Manila NCR, Mumbai and Dublin as the top five cities that have established themselves as prime outsourcing cities by servicing the global corporate world for over a decade.

Five cities from India, three cities from China and two cities from Vietnam dominate the top 15 emerging destinations list. The top three emerging outsourcing cities world-wide from India are Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune. Kolkata at number five and Chandigarh at number nine are the other two Indian cities in the list, the report revealed.

The three hot cities for outsourcing from China are Shanghai at eight, Beijing at No. 10 and Shenzhen at No. 13. Vietnam's capital Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi at six and No. 12 respectively are the other emerging cities to feature in the list of top 15 cities.

Cebu City ( Philippines) at number four, Colombo at seven, Cairo at No. 11, Buenos Aires at No.14 and Sao Paulo (Brazil) at No.15 are the other hot destinations.

The study reveals that the outsourcers consider process maturity, availability of relevant skills and costs in the individual city as the top reasons before deciding on the location for IT and BPO services outsourcing.

Avinash Vashistha, chairman and CEO, Tholons, said, "With the demand-supply gap widening, newer tier II cities will play a critical role in re-engineered globalization models. Destinations will need to provide greater level of cost effectiveness and operational efficiency."

The research ranked the top 50 and profiled the top 15 emerging global cities for outsourcing. These are the ones that may not be top of mind for most companies; but nevertheless are well suited for specific IT and BPO functions. As there are some global outsourcing cities that stand as the clear winners, the study also ranks the top five obvious choices that need no introduction.

Six cities of the Top 50 emerging cities is from India, followed by five cities from China. Brazil, Philippines, USA with three cities, followed by Czechoslovakia, Mexico, Poland, Russia, UK and Vietnam housing two cities each. The top 11 countries offer 32 destinations among the Top 50 outsourcing.

HERE (http://www.ciol.com/content/25907100215.aspx)

tj_brewed

September 25th, 2007, 10:49 AM

Youre right girl, i want to post the interior part (renderng)of Parkmall@168 .We already saw the exterior , right? Its awesome guys.:banana: :banana: :banana: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :banana: :banana: :banana: Please help me guys on how to post a photo or pictures ?

Any idea on the rate of its rent? ei hope u can post the interior (rendering) :rock:

PINOYmeat

September 25th, 2007, 10:52 AM

in summary...

the top five cities that have established themselves as prime outsourcing cities

1.Bongalore
2.New Delhi
3.NCR (Manila)
4.Mumbai
5.Dublin

top 15 emerging destinations list

1.Chennai (india)
2.Hyderabad (india)
3.Pune (india)
4.Cebu (the philippines)
5.Kolkata (india)
6.Ho Chi Minh(vietnam)
7.Colombo (Sri Lanka)
8.Shanghai(china)
9.Chandigarh(india)
10.Beijing(china)
11.Cairo(Egypt)
12.Hanoi(vietnam)
13.Shenzhen(china)
14.Buenos Aires(Argentina)
15.Sao Paulo(Brazil)

tj_brewed

September 25th, 2007, 10:53 AM

^^ Im not sure if this has already been posted..or maybe late ako sa balita...pero kanina, when I passed by Gaisano Capital South, visible yung on going expansion nila. :rock:

It seems like the business community is busy with their business expansions! :cheers:

PINOYmeat

September 25th, 2007, 10:56 AM

Asia, Europe top outsourcing destinations
Nineteen Asian, 12 East and Central European cities among Top 50 emerging outsourcing cities

^^ there's a big difference compared to NeoIT's forecast (which included other philippine cities) but its comforting to know that cebu is still on the list!:banana: although its a different study than the NeoIT.

A vote of confidence for cebu's booming IT sector :cheers:

PINOYmeat

September 25th, 2007, 11:07 AM

Korean firm eyes Cebu for $120-M shipyard
By Jun P. Tagalog
Cebu Daily News
Last updated 01:18pm (Mla time) 09/25/2007

Cebu City, Philippines - A Korean company is planning to invest $120 million to build and develop another world-class shipyard in Cebu.

The company which is only introduced as NP, a temporary name, has sought the help of the Cebu Investment Promotions Center (CIPC) to look for an 80-hectare to 100-hectare coastal property with a five-meter seawater depth.

Joel Mari Yu, CIPC managing director, said Heung-Chul Kwon, Korean Embassy director in Manila, recently visited his office to seek help in trying to find the right location for the project in Cebu.

Yu said he relayed the plan of the Korean company to the office of Governor Gwendolyn Garcia through her Executive Assistant Beth Francia and to the office of Board Member Victor Maambong.

He said the Korean project will be as big as the Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu) Inc. in Balamban town in western Cebu, which is owned by Tsuneishi in Japan and the Aboitiz group.

“I hope that the province can help look for the big-size property. Definitely its investment is really huge,” Yu said.

Given the size of the site and the depth of seawaters needed of the project, Yu said he believed that one good coastal site for this is the southwest part of the province.

According to the fact sheet of the planned project prepared by the Korea desk at the Board of Investment (BOI), the total investment of this business is $120 million.

The Korean company aims to build at least eight ships a year after three years of operation.

According to its business plan, the firm plans to build ships of up to 70,000 tons (deadweight tonnage or DWT).

The shipbuilding firm also plans to hire at least 1,500 workers.

Two requirements for the shipbuilding factory site is the accessibility to the main road and the availability of skilled workers.

Based on its company information, the Korean company is one of the medium size construction firms in Korea. The firm's total sales last year was $215 million.

HERE (http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/enterprise/view_article.php?article_id=90591)

ivanhenares

September 25th, 2007, 11:41 AM

We heard on September 23 that Atty. Leto Sato sold his more than
100-year-old ancestral house for Php 30 million to Lucio
Tan/Philippine National Bank. This house is located on one of the
corners of the National Highway and the Carcar town plaza.

*We heard that PNB will demolish the house to put up a bank. According
to the grapevine, Atty. Sato said that he will sue anybody who tries
to stop him from demolishing his house.* Recently, Sato demolished a
new wooden staircase attached to the azotea. There is no other work
going on now that I could see.

One of our Heritage (CHCS) members, who works for the Carcar lgu,
talked to Mayor Patrick Barcenas about this issue. He told Barcenas
that the reason the DPWH road widening didn't push through was the
presence of the heritage houses on the National Highway. Barcenas
asked him what to do and he said, "ask Heritage". Barcenas didn't
reply.

We don't have any more details but will try to get more information
when it becomes available. CHCS members will try to talk to Atty.
Sato's family and from other sources including finding somebody at PNB
who can verify their house purchase and sale conditions.

The house was under court litigation. One of the Jaen family heirs
(former house owners) filed a lawsuit against the Sato. I don't know
the specifics of the lawsuit but it appears from the latest
development that both parties settled. Otherwise, how else could the
sale happen if the papers weren't in order.

For background, the Sato house was one of the five more than one
hundred year old ancestral houses on the National Highway that the
DPWH wanted to demolish for their road-widening project 2002. This
house is significant in Carcar and Cebu history because it was where
the Philippine Revolutionary leader in Cebu -- General Leon Kilat (aka
Panteleon Villegas) was assassinated in 1898. It is also the largest
Carcar ancestral house with excellent architectural handiwork and
details.

*We have a Carcar heritage ordinance, passed in 2005, protecting our
heritage structures and sites but I don't know if Barcenas or the lgu
will take any action to prevent a demolition even of a major heritage
house located in our old town center.*

The lgu has no inventory of heritage structures according to one our
city councilors. Nestor Velez, MD told me this more than one month ago
when I acted as their lgu guide when Henry Schumacher of the European
Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines passed through Carcar.
Councilor Velez is also the vice-chairman of the lgu's Tourism
Committee chaired by Carcar's new vice-mayor Nicepuro Apura.

Atty. Sato has the right to sell his ancestral house. My only issue
and concern is the possible demolition and its implications with a
Carcar heritage ordinance in place. This development is a decisive
test for implementing the ordinance and on the Carcar lgu's resolve to
enforce the law. This ordinance is the only local law protecting
heritage structures and sites in all of Cebu province.

I believe that we have to do something to support the heritage
ordinance since the Sato house is protected under law. I'm afraid that
if the Sato house is demolished the four other heritage houses on the
National Highway or in Carcar's heritage zones may follow.

I hope that there is still a means to save the house for adaptive
reuse. I know that one very large ancestral house in Luzon was
converted into a bank. It is still a bank but open for visitors to
view.

Do you think that heritage conservation advocates in Cebu and at the
national level can find a way to work with the new owners and discuss
adaptive reuse of this house? Can we find a way to talk to the local,
provincial and national governments to find the means to save the
house?

*Does anyone have a PNB contact or a contact with Lucio Tan's staff to
confirm the sale?* We have to get all the facts together from all the
concerned parties before taking any action.

You may recall that the Carcar Heritage Conservation Society (CHCS)
formed in 2002 because of the road-widening issue on the National
Highway specifically to save those five ancestral houses and the
Carcar Kiosko and Rotunda.

Do you think it is still possible to have a win-win situation for
heritage conservation and adaptive reuse with the new owners? If so,
how can we make this happen before the lgu issues a demolition permit?
I'd appreciate any of your thoughts on how to proceed to save the
house for adaptive reuse.

Jerry Martin Alfafara
External VP and PRO
CHCS

PS - This development/issue is sure to hit the papers etc. because of
the issues involved and the house's importance to Carcar and Cebu
history. It's also a very negative development for Cebu's heritage
conservation movement if the demolition occurs since Carcar has a
heritage ordinance.

tj_brewed

September 25th, 2007, 01:24 PM

^^ there's a big difference compared to NeoIT's forecast (which included other philippine cities) but its comforting to know that cebu is still on the list!:banana: although its a different study than the NeoIT.

A vote of confidence for cebu's booming IT sector :cheers:

I agree! :okay: it's great to have these surveys with consistent results. A vote of confidence indeed...... :cheers:

tj_brewed

September 25th, 2007, 01:28 PM

tj_brewed

September 25th, 2007, 01:29 PM

Busay skyline (but still under Brgy. Apas territory)...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1160132.jpg

Cebu's talls...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1160131.jpg

Beautiful!!! yey! weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee :rock:

SleMarKen

September 25th, 2007, 07:15 PM

Cebu Boardwalk Mall
09.25.07

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk1.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk2.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk3.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk4.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk5.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk6.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk7.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk8.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk9.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk10.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk11.jpg

SleMarKen

September 25th, 2007, 07:43 PM

All tied up: The Jerry-built cladding of CDU
09.25.07

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCCDU.jpg

If you can't fix it, tie it! hahahaha :lol:

SleMarKen

September 25th, 2007, 07:49 PM

Quest Homes
09.25.07

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCQuest01.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCQuest02.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCQuest03.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCQuest04.jpg

Parkmall
09.25.07

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCParkmall01.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCParkmall02.jpg

SleMarKen

September 25th, 2007, 08:11 PM

The CBP Clusters
09.25.07

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCCBPCluster01.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCCBPCluster02.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCCBPCluster03.jpg

Innove

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCInnove01.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCInnove02.jpg

Keppel

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCKeppel01.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCKeppel02.jpg

Crown Regency

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCCrown01.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCCrown02.jpg

hiiamdib

September 25th, 2007, 08:53 PM

^^ The tower is turning up pretty good. i like the connection between the towers. :cheers:

reggiedoc

September 25th, 2007, 11:58 PM

Thank you, guys for the latest pictures on Cebu. Future looks so bright!

Ex!lE

September 26th, 2007, 02:14 AM

Korean lenders to fund power project in Cebu (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=49&type=2&sec=27&aid=2007092551)
By Donnabelle L. Gatdula
Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Korea Electric Power Corp. (Kepco) and SPC Power Corp. will tap Korea Development Bank and Korea Export-Import Bank to finance the construction of their 200-megawatt coal-fired power plant project in Cebu.

Company sources told reporters that the financing from the Korean lending institutions will constitute bulk of the project cost. The remaining balance will be borrowed through a syndicated loan from Citibank N. A.

“Majority of the project’s financing will be coming from Korean lenders and this will be supplemented by a loan from Citibank,” an industry source said.

The project cost, the sources said, could reach over $300 million due to the increasing cost of materials and equipment.

If funding will be firmed up soon, the two power firms are likely to start the construction of the coal-fueled power plant next month.

Kepco is under pressure to put up the plant since the project is expected to help augment the expected power shortage (ECs) in the Visayas in 2010.

But sources said the company is still awaiting the signing of some bilateral contracts with offtakers, mostly electric cooperatives (ECs) in Negros and Cebu .

If they would be able to complete the signing with at least seven ECs in the next two months, the construction will take about 36 to 42 months before it would be completed.

“We are in the process of signing the contracts with off-takers/electric cooperatives. Without these bilateral contracts, we cannot push through with the construction,” a company official said.

He said they are also still waiting for the approval of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). “We’re still waiting for the ERC’s approval on our contract with our first electric cooperative partner Noceco (Negros Occidental Electric Cooperative).”

The company said it would need to sign at least 180 megawatts worth of supply contracts before proceeding with the project. The contract will last up to 10 years at P4.30 per kilowatthour (kwh).

Kepco broke ground for the Naga coal-fired power plant in 2005. The company took more than a year to get necessary permits and seal the supply contracts.

The Naga project will utilize clean coal technology that limits nitrogen oxide and sulfur oxide emissions at environmentally-friendly levels.

diehardbisdak

September 26th, 2007, 05:22 AM

CICC - flickr pic by @earljohn

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1330/1438781256_58ac1d70be_b.jpg

diehardbisdak

September 26th, 2007, 05:24 AM

Great Wall of Cebu...heheheh! - flickr pic by @bonicole

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1434/1437650576_e71bd4487a_o.jpg

diehardbisdak

September 26th, 2007, 05:26 AM

Citylight's 4th Tower is rising... - flickr pic by @bonicole

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1038/1437653624_5497b4731f_o.jpg

diehardbisdak

September 26th, 2007, 05:29 AM

...CEBU! is not "opaw", it's so green! - flickr pic by @bonicole

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1376/1436786291_80fd5192f1_o.jpg

diehardbisdak

September 26th, 2007, 05:44 AM

...the mighty W.C.C.H. & Casino - flickr pic by @wabsyu11

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1431/1432376842_2d1ad3fed9_o.jpg

daks2003

September 26th, 2007, 05:46 AM

what company runs the Cebu Boardwalk Mall?

All tied up: The Jerry-built cladding of CDU
09.25.07

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCCDU.jpg

SleMarKen

September 26th, 2007, 05:48 AM

^^

FF Cruz.

And that pic is CDU.

Sinjin P.

September 26th, 2007, 07:14 AM

:puke: @ CDU's cladding.

Since they were so much in a hurry, look at what happened. And now some cladded portions are sticking out like sore thumbs.

SleMarKen

September 26th, 2007, 07:17 AM

^^

yeah since they were like racing with CICC back then. i wonder if the claddings of CICC will suffer the same fate.

Sinjin P.

September 26th, 2007, 07:20 AM

^ Um, well the CICC has survived that tropical depression in 2006 so it might have been built well :D

rage@cebu

September 26th, 2007, 07:44 AM

hans boy

September 26th, 2007, 07:46 AM

SSC Cebu maniniyot photographer peeps...

I passed by Crown Regency Hotel and Suites awhile ago, the Starbucks at the ground floor already have the usual Starbucks singnage in place and there's also a streamer that says "brewing soon!" Please take some pictures for the usual hard evidence from SSC Cebu.

Finally, Starbucks will give Bo's and Gloria Jeans along Jones Avenue a run for their money eventhough it's quite far from the 2 coffee shops.

rage@cebu

September 26th, 2007, 07:46 AM

hans boy

September 26th, 2007, 08:06 AM

^^

Me Too! I Love It!

islandergirl

September 26th, 2007, 09:03 AM

Jarenz

September 26th, 2007, 10:22 AM

Nice Updates to all....

animasola

September 26th, 2007, 11:27 AM

I hope they clean the waters near NRA, I mean at least clear it of ships and stuff.

The Cebuano Exultor

September 26th, 2007, 11:35 AM

I mean at least clear it of ships and stuff.

^^ That would be impossible to pursue since there are some ships that dock at quays in Lapu-Lapu City. Furthermore, ships aren't that bad a sight really. It'd even add more to the bussling scene in our waterfront. Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor and Singapore's Marina Bay both have, precisely the same aura as our waterfront's. :yes:

Lito

September 26th, 2007, 11:40 AM

White sand in Moalboal.. sarap mag swimming

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/5379/pic033ok5.jpg

Lito

September 26th, 2007, 11:44 AM

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/6650/pic012yx9.jpg

habagatcentral1

September 26th, 2007, 11:44 AM

^^ Is that Negros on the other side?

Lito

September 26th, 2007, 11:49 AM

^^ ^^ yeah.. tama ka pards.. at tanaw na tanaw sa Moalboal ang bubong ng bahay sa gilid ng bundok. malapit na talaga ito sa Negros...
Try ninyo magpunta dyan... ang tahimik, ma relax ka talaga at saka kung mahilig ka sa diving eh mawiwili ka dito sa ilalim ng tubig ganda talaga:banana:

Lito

September 26th, 2007, 11:50 AM

Actually noong bumalik kami ng Cebu City... umikot pa kami sa Boljoon ang lapit na pala nito sa Siquijor... ang maganda sa Boljoon yung tubig ng dagat halos katabi na lang ng highway ang linaw ng tubig...

Lito

September 26th, 2007, 11:51 AM

I hope they clean the waters near NRA, I mean at least clear it of ships and stuff.

pwede nilang gawin siguro ang ginagawa sa Tagbilaran.. kahit may mga ships na dumadaong makikita mo dami isda sa gilid at ang linaw ng tubig walang lumulutang ng langis...

The Cebuano Exultor

September 26th, 2007, 11:52 AM

^^ Yup. :yes:

Notice how close Negros Island seems to appear. It's actually quite far [roughly 16 kilometers away]. This is because Oriental Negros has really high mountains. :yes:

habagatcentral1

September 26th, 2007, 11:56 AM

^^ And in Toledo City, you can see Mount Kanlaon. In Iloilo City, you can see Mount Kanlaon's silhouette. It brings to conclusion that Visayas is a compact archipelago. :D

PINOYmeat

September 26th, 2007, 12:09 PM

^^ pano kaya pag sumabog ng pagkalakas lakas ang mt. kanlaon? we would be wishing na were not so compact siguro :lol: (knock on wood)

PINOYmeat

September 26th, 2007, 12:18 PM

Drishti Gears Up to Capitalize on Filipino Contact Center Market Growth
September 26,2007 12:00 AM EST

"We are very excited to see the progress Drishti Philippines has made. Our priority is to make people aware of DACX™ Contact Center Suite and advantages that follow from an IP-based solution," said Grace Tirol, Director, Sales and Marketing at Drishti Philippines Inc. She also mentioned that Drishti is considering setting up a regional office in Cebu. "Cebu has already got serious players and we believe it will play an important role in making Philippines a world class BPO provider."

Mr. Jaypee Anunciacion, CEO of Sourcehub, a premier call centers in Cebu, said, "We are proud to be the first call center in Cebu to use DACX™ Contact Center Suite. With its comprehensive monitoring, reporting, and lead management, we have achieved higher call volumes, improved process efficiency and better workforce management. After we evaluated many solutions, we realized that Drishti's was the best. It has exceeded our expectations and positively impacted our business that we have recommended our associates in the call center industry to use Drishti's technology."

MORE HERE (http://www.financevisor.com/market/news_detail.aspx?rid=58045)

habagatcentral1

September 26th, 2007, 12:19 PM

^^ pano kaya pag sumabog ng pagkalakas lakas ang mt. kanlaon? we would be wishing na were not so sompact siguro :lol: (knock on wood)

Hehe!! Good thing it doesn't erupt violently based on its history.

PINOYmeat

September 26th, 2007, 12:22 PM

Kenney: American businessmen not bothered by political noise in RP

American businessmen and investors are not bothered by the fresh political noise in the Philippines brought about by the controversial National Broadband Network (NBN) project, the alleged destabilization plots against the Arroyo administration, and the guilty verdict against former President Joseph Estrada.

On Wednesday, US Ambassador to Manila Kristie Kenney told Camp Crame reporters that Americans doing business in the country are in fact "very enthusiastic," and that an investment-related event will even be held next week in Cebu.

"American business is very enthusiastic about what we do here. In fact, next week, I'm going to Cebu, we have an American showcase," Kenney said.

"The project we're launching next week in Cebu is American companies are here looking for Philippine partners to do business in the country. That's pretty exciting for me," she added.

Kenney said American businessmen and investors find the "quality of Filipino employees" as "second to none in the world," that is why they prefer it in the Philippines.

"It's a great place to do business because the quality of employees you get in the Philippines is second to none. Filipinos are energetic and dedicated. And so most of our companies are very happy here," she said.

Kenney said security is also a factor, giving credit to outgoing PNP chief Director General OScar Calderon, who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 on October 1.

"I also wanted to take this opportunity to personally congratulate Gen. Calderon as he concludes his tour of service as chief PNP and a lifetime service to the Filipino people and the Philippine nation," the US envoy said.

"Americans feel increasingly safer here in the Philippines. The PNP has done a wonderful job of looking after the really many difficult issues that face every police force in the world today," she went on.

She said she looks forward to working in the future with incoming PNP chief Deputy Director Gen. Avelino Razon Jr. - GMANews.TV

HERE (http://www.gmanews.tv/story/62000/Kenney-American-businessmen-not-bothered-by-political-noise-in-RP)

The Cebuano Exultor

September 26th, 2007, 12:28 PM

^^ That's definitely good news. :banana:

PINOYmeat

September 26th, 2007, 12:31 PM

^^ and good news keeps on coming for cebu!!! :banana:

PINOYmeat

September 26th, 2007, 12:36 PM

and were getting flooded by hotel proposals and projects :banana: ....

3 international groups eye no-frills hotel in RP
By MA. ELISA P. OSORIO

Three international hotel groups have expressed interest in building no frills hotels in the country through the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) hotel project.

In an interview, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) president Samie Lim said Ginger Hotel from India, European-based Accor Hotel and United Kingdom’s Yotel have already approached the proponents of the project in order build the ASEAN hotel.

The three hotel chains are interested in the project of the ASEAN member nations namely the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar and Malaysia.

The ASEAN hotel plans to build similar no frills hotels in the 10 member countries of the ASEAN.

According to Lim, the ASEAN ministers approved the ASEAN hotel concept last month after the meeting of the economic ministers in Manila.

“All the ASEAN hotels will have similar services and integrated marketing and advertising,” Lim explained. “They will also conduct a centralized training for the food and beverage staff.”

This, he said, is necessary in order to ensure that the services provided by all ASEAN hotels are consistent.

Also, Lim said there will be more than one ASEAN hotel per country. In the Philippines, he said there should be ASEAN hotels in all major tourist destinations like Cebu, Boracay, Bacolod, Baguio and Ilocos.

Lim further said that the owner of the franchise in the country must be a local. If this is not possible, he said at least a big chunk of the hotel franchise is owned by a resident. For example, the master franchise of the hotel must be 34 percent owned by locals.

Ginger is part of the Tata Group. Ginger hotels are built around a unique concept that provides facilities to meet the key needs of travellers at affordable rates. The primary objective behind the launch of these hotels is to provide a superior product offering and consistent experience to travelers, beyond the present offerings in the industry.

Meanwhile, the Accor Hotel group is currently operating in nearly 100 countries. It is the European leader in hotels and the global leader in corporate services. Yotel on the other hand is also a no frills hotel company operating in the United Kingdom.

HERE (http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storypage.aspx?StoryId=93958)

dive-cebu

September 26th, 2007, 12:53 PM

am i seing a Gaisano Country Mall Boardwalk Branch here? :lol: :lol:

Cebu Boardwalk Mall
09.25.07

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk1.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk6.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/SSCBoardwalk7.jpg

Sinjin P.

September 26th, 2007, 12:56 PM

^ It's absolutely better than GCM :yes:

dive-cebu

September 26th, 2007, 01:00 PM

not a question sinj... there are just some similarities between the 2 but in terms of location, cebu boardwalk has a very big advantage i believe.

The Cebuano Exultor

September 26th, 2007, 01:04 PM

I really the choice of railings that are being installed at the Cebu Boardwalk Mall. They're far better than those awfully tacky railings of SM Mall of Asia.

Sinjin P.

September 26th, 2007, 01:04 PM

Wait, so will this be an open air mall? Or just open air walkway and airconditioned shops?

dive-cebu

September 26th, 2007, 01:10 PM

^^ by the looks of it, shops would still be airconditioned... unless they want the diners and shopers feel that they're in a sauna

habagatcentral1

September 26th, 2007, 02:48 PM

^^ The problem with the area though is that there are days that the stench of Subangdaku Creek would encroach the area. We experienced it several times in CDU and it happens during hot and humid days.

I think the restos would resort into air-conditioning rather than leaving it open, or there are sections where there are areas for air-conditioned and non-aircon.

On the other hand, Quest Homes has opened its new stalls like Stats and several shops. I think, by the time I return here, there might be regular jeepneys plying Mandaue's Reclamation Area. Archt. Guanzon was right, CICC really became a catalyst of growth for this area, and so is the student population of CDU. (and balita nako morag naa property diha ang UC)

Sinjin P.

September 26th, 2007, 02:55 PM

^ So where's Ouano's promised cleanup of the Butuanon River :rant: Promises, promises, that fat pig! :puke:

habagatcentral1

September 26th, 2007, 02:59 PM

^^ Basi ipalimpyo nya kay Jonas ang kahugaw. :??

flesh_is_weak

September 26th, 2007, 03:14 PM

Boardwalk Mall is shaping up well...i cant wait till it's finished...it's probably gonna be my latest haunt :)

habagatcentral1

September 26th, 2007, 03:23 PM

Basta, it will be the newest tambayan of Dabert and his fellow collagues in blue, pink and white and the bow-tied, hehe!! :lol: Sayang, I won't be there for hanging out.

flesh_is_weak

September 26th, 2007, 03:29 PM

^^where's the amphitheater though? the old rendering used to have one...i wonder if it had been scrapped

slimer

September 26th, 2007, 03:49 PM

im excited about the boardwalk mall! it's beautiful. loved those materials they're using; the bricks, railings, and the landscaping is nice too!

ofw_cebu

September 26th, 2007, 06:01 PM

nice updates.....kanindot tan aw sa Cebu....booming dyud kaayo....

sugbuanon

September 26th, 2007, 06:54 PM

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/3034/cimg8725oq2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/5409/cimg8705fc1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

photos by: manuel gaerlan

ofw_cebu

September 26th, 2007, 07:06 PM

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/3034/cimg8725oq2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/5409/cimg8705fc1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

photos by: manuel gaerlan

asa ni dapit?

tj_brewed

September 26th, 2007, 07:29 PM

tj_brewed

September 26th, 2007, 07:46 PM

Gaisano to open 5 banks
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Sunstar Online Cebu

Wealthbank branches in the Visayas and Mindanao as the bank continues to enjoy growth in both deposits and loan.

Wealth Development Bank’s (Wealthbank) expansion can either be through merger or acquisition, said president Sabiniano Villamor.

He said company stockholders have approved the infusion of additional funds to strengthen the bank’s capital base in anticipation of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) approval of its plan to open more branches.

“This is expected shortly on the basis of the positive feedbacks recently received from (the) Supervision and Examination Department 3 (of the BSP) which reported (it has) completed the documentation,” he added.

He said the private development bank is waiting for the approval of the BSP “anytime this year” for the expansion program.

“Our target is to establish the five branches within six months after we get the approval. Selection of location will be given particular attention as well as the personnel requirements of each new branch to give the best service to clients in these areas,” Villamor said in an interview.

He said two of the additional branches will be located in Cebu, bringing Wealthbank’s total number of branches in the province to six.

Wealthbank’s existing branches are located at the Cebu Business Park, Ramos Street, Carbon Market area and in Mandaue City. Outside Cebu Province, Wealthbank has existing branches in Cagayan de Oro and Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

The bank also plans to open two additional branches in Davao — in Matina district and Sta.Ana, and the another one in Iloilo.

Taking advantage of the presence of Metro Gaisano department stores in Luzon, Villamor said Metro Manila has been identified as another target for expansion.

Metro Gaisano is the anchor store of Ayala’s Market Market mall in Taguig. The two other Metro Gaisano malls are in Legaspi City and Lucena.

In addition, Wealthbank is also fast-tracking its automatic teller machine project to complement the bank’s widening market coverage.

Wealthbank, formerly Danao City Development Bank (DCDB), was established in 1966.

In 2001, the BSP and the Securities and Exchange Commission approved the acquisition of DCDB by the Metro Gaisano group having increased its authorized capital to P500 million.

The Metro Gaisano group, also known as Vicsal Development Corp., is the bank’s majority shareholder while its equity partners are the Development Bank of the Philippines and the Land Bank of the Philippines.

Sinjin P.

September 27th, 2007, 12:12 AM

Basta, it will be the newest tambayan of Dabert and his fellow collagues in blue, pink and white and the bow-tied, hehe!! :lol: Sayang, I won't be there for hanging out.

I wont hangout there if I feel that the place isn't secured enough yet. Maybe only when more establishments mushroom around the area. For the meantime, stalkers can see me at Ayala, SM and Paseo :lol:

^^where's the amphitheater though? the old rendering used to have one...i wonder if it had been scrapped

Hmm, wasn't there a press release months ago that they'll be implementing their project by phases? :dunno:

leylander

September 27th, 2007, 02:31 AM

leylander

September 27th, 2007, 02:34 AM

waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa...kanindot! i love it! IMO, i like this more than Baywalk....IMO lang po ha..... Wow! Any idea if kelan to maopen to the public?

i think mas better pa gyud ni sa baywalk pud bay kay ang baywalk murag mga bangketa lang man gud. kani kay murag mas classy man siya tan-awon. mura man tog larsian ang baywalk. hehehe. IMO pud na ha. :lol:

ivanc

September 27th, 2007, 04:56 AM

Business
Manila-based beauty center to open 18th branch in Cebu

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Cebu’s good business prospects for beauty and wellness prompted skin care specialist Forever Flawless Face and Body Center to open its second biggest branch in the country in Cebu.

Cebu’s facility, a 123 square-meter center to be located at the SM City Cebu, expansion building—The Northwing, is the 18th branch of the six-year old Forever Flawless skin center chain. The biggest Forever Flawless Center is located at SM Megamall in Manila.

In a press interview with the company’s public relations manager Francis Albert D. Labora, he said that the market for beauty has grown tremendously in the Philippines in the recent years.

“Looking good is not already a luxury, its part of everyone’s need now,” he said adding that the market has expanded to the male segment, from the dominance of the female market in the past.

Despite the presence of skin care clinics and centers in Cebu, Labora said Forever Flawless, which is affiliated by the well-known Vicky Belo Group, has seen a great potential for growth here.

Vicky Belo is a consultant of the Forever Flawless, as it targets the mainstream market since it is a mall-based skin care center.

The center uses non-evasive beauty enhancement and treatments, like whitening and anti-aging injectables, pimple injection, skin peeling, among others.

After its entry in Cebu, Labora said the company will study closely its international expansion program through franchise deals, starting with Xiamen in China,Guam and Los Angeles, California.

At present, all the 17 outlets of Forever Flawless are owned by the company, including the upcoming Cebu center that is scheduled to open on November this year.

Next year, expansion of the skin care center will be through franchise deals, at it is projecting to open 15 more outlets in 2008.

Aside from venturing into franchise package next year, the company will also open Forever Flawless for Men centers that will offer specialized men beauty enhancement services. – Ehda M. Dagooc

Sinjin P.

September 27th, 2007, 05:10 AM

i think mas better pa gyud ni sa baywalk pud bay kay ang baywalk murag mga bangketa lang man gud. kani kay murag mas classy man siya tan-awon. mura man tog larsian ang baywalk. hehehe. IMO pud na ha. :lol:

Indeed. But the Mandaue City government should clean up Butuanon River and Subangdaku Creek before this lovely baby opens. :yes:

habagatcentral1

September 27th, 2007, 05:17 AM

asa ni dapit?

Marigondon Mactan bai...sa unsa man to nga resort nga gihilakan ato....Blue Wave Mactan? Please correct me if im wrong.

mwg12a

September 27th, 2007, 07:29 AM

Very nice Pictures!!! I think you guys are right here, based of Manila's board walk which is probably longer, but I cannot agree more that this one looks better.

animasola

September 27th, 2007, 08:12 AM

habagatcentral1

September 27th, 2007, 08:20 AM

^^ Sometimes. Especially during hot and humid days. CDU students smell like either like danggit or rotten egg. Unta palimyuhon na gud ang mga creeks nga galibot sa NRA.

SleMarKen

September 27th, 2007, 08:30 AM

The boardwalk is looking great! One question, does it smell bad in that area?

No it doesn't smell at all. Unlike SRP. :D

I hope they clean the waters near NRA, I mean at least clear it of ships and stuff.

According to one of the workers, the shipyards immediately surrounding the area were already sent notice to keep their ships at bay in their area and not in front of the mall.

SleMarKen

September 27th, 2007, 08:35 AM

T H E M A R I N A

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCSeaside.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCSeaside1.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCSeaside2.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCSeaside3.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCSeaside4.jpg

SleMarKen

September 27th, 2007, 08:38 AM

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/5051/lexmarkpanocopysx7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

slimer

September 27th, 2007, 03:55 PM

Marigondon Mactan bai...sa unsa man to nga resort nga gihilakan ato....Blue Wave Mactan? Please correct me if im wrong.

it's Blue Reef bai.

Sinjin P.

September 27th, 2007, 06:10 PM

Dili ko makatulog sa sobraan katugnaw karon diri (It's so fu*king cold right now so I can't sleep)

Anywayw, so is this the P20 million+ signage Mayor Thomas is talking about?
http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i120/gottlieber/srpsignage-1.jpg

*image sourced from CCF

The Cebuano Exultor

September 27th, 2007, 06:49 PM

That signage doesn't give justice to SRP at all! >( It looks cheap, IMHO. :no:

Sinjin P.

September 27th, 2007, 07:33 PM

Hey guys! Seriously, what is wrong with GCM? Aesthetically speaking, it looks great! It’s just the crowd. I'm not being an elitist but you guys know what I'm talking about. :D

The boardwalk is looking great! One question, does it smell bad in that area?

For me, there is nothing wrong with Gaisano Country Mall. Maybe others are just hesitant to express their admiration for GCM since it has been branded as "the yayas' mall" :lol:

That signage doesn't give justice to SRP at all! >( It looks cheap, IMHO. :no:

I don't think its done. Hmm.

Jimbu

September 27th, 2007, 10:11 PM

TeleTech maps out Visayas expansion (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=52&type=2&sec=71&aid=20070927210)
The Freeman
By Ehda M. Dagooc
Friday, September 28, 2007

The high level of English proficiency of call center agents in the Visayas has prompted inbound customer management call center, TeleTech to expand in the region with plans of opening sites in Tacloban, adding manpower in Cebu and Dumaguete facilities.

“Some of our clients are happier with our Cebu, Dumaguete and Bacolod operations, than in Metro Manila,” said Alejandro “AJ” Maralit, TeleTech executive director of program operations.

In a press conference held Wednesday, Maralit announced the company’s plan to add more 500 agents for its Cebu delivery center in Oakridge IT center in Mandaue City.

Next year, TeleTech’s expansion focus of expansion will be in Visayas, as the company’s 30 percent target growth in manpower pool will come from the region.

At present, its overall operations in the Philippines maintains a total of 13,000 employees, by next year the company targets to operate with 15,000 or more customer management services from its facilities in Visayas and Metro Manila.

Since the company has designed good employee-centric programs, it has experienced one of the lowest attrition rate in the industry, with an average of three percent a month. Its provincial sites, like in Dumaguete and Bacolod have much lower rate with about one percent a month.

The fast turnover of call center agents from one to the other is only one of the four reasons why some call center agents do not stay long in the job. He said going abroad, health concerns, and agents practicing their professions (like nurses, engineers), are the main reasons for the turnover of employees.

Unlike other call center firms, which suffered from high attrition rate, TeleTech is able to keep its employees and made them stay longer. Some have even reached three years in service, owing to the company’s unique program that takes care of its workforce.

One of its strategies aside from establishing a work-friendly office environment is to bring the facility nearer to residential areas, instead of locating in a business district, to provide easy access to employees.

TeleTech entered the Philippines in 2002. It maintains 10 sites in the Philippines, including facilities located in Metro Manila, Lipa City, Dumaguete and Bacolod, and Cebu.

“Expanding throughout the Philippines is an important part of our multi-shore strategy,” said Maulik Parekh, vice president and general manager of TeleTech’s Philippine operations.

“We have a broad base of clients seeking multiple levels of BPO support, and our continued growth in the Philippines allows us to offer expanded services to our rapidly growing client base all over the world,” Parekh added.

TeleTech is a leading global business outsourcing (BPO) company based in Denver, Colorado. It provides a full range of front-to-back office outsourced solutions including customer management, transaction-based processing, and database marketing services.

The company provides service to wide range of clientele in commercial, cable, satellite, insurance, retail chain, telecommunications, and airlines, among others. Most of its clients are in the Fortune 500 circle.

It has 46,000 employees worldwide and handles 2.7 million live customer interactions or calls over US$1 billion in commerce for its clients daily.

Ex!lE

September 28th, 2007, 02:07 AM

Success of travel fairs paves way for more conventions in Cebu (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=52&type=2&sec=71&aid=20070927208)

Friday, September 28, 2007

Impressed by the good working relationship between the Cebu provincial government and the tourism players in the private sector, the National Association of Independent Travel Agencies (Naitas) said there is a good chance for Cebu to host the biggest tourism conventions next year.

Naitas chairman Robert Lim Joseph said that the Philippine Travel Exchange, Philippine International Tourism Fair and International Tourism Congress next year might be held in Cebu simultaneously gathering thousands of tourism players around the world.

“What is inviting about Cebu is the private and governments sectors are working hand in hand together and convention delegates from all over the world are more assured of the security and their safety here,” said Joseph.

He explained that if bigger conventions will be held here, that would involve more foreign delegates, organizers like Naitas are confident of the safety for the delegates, saying “If something goes wrong, we know where to push the button.”

Joseph mentioned the success of the recently concluded Philippine Travel Exchange (PhilTex) organized by the Department of Tourism, which was held back to back with Naitas International Tourism Fair earlier this month.

He said the foreign delegates of the PhilTex were very impressed about Cebu, especially the commitment of the local government unit (LGU) here, to push the international tourism.

Joseph said Naitas will work with DOT, and other government agencies to bid for Cebu as the venue for next year’s PhilTex.

“Naitas will forcefully push Cebu again for the holding of the three events next year. This will be the biggest tourism event to be held in Cebu then,” he said in a press conference.

According to Joseph, the foreign buyers who attended this year’s PhilTex were amazed of Cebu’s tourism potential, adding that Cebu will continue to reap the benefits of being the host of the 12th ASEAN Summit, which was held early this year.

The delegates both in PhilTex, and the PITF were very impressed of Cebu. “They [delegates] did not expect what they saw. They only heard of Cebu as secondary city next to Manila, but when they were here, they were surprised of Cebu’s potential for international tourism.”

The presence of the international hotel brands, and the five star resorts is a plus for Cebu, that’s why Joseph said it would be very beneficial for Cebu to attract more international hotel chain to operate here.

He said Cebu has become an emerging international destination for high end tourists, it is important to invite more five-star hotel chains here, or resorts, aside from the existing ones. – Ehda M. Dagooc

leylander

September 28th, 2007, 02:39 AM

I don't think its done. Hmm.

yeah. i hope dili pa na final...:nuts:

SleMarKen

September 28th, 2007, 02:46 AM

That signage doesn't give justice to SRP at all! >( It looks cheap, IMHO. :no:

its not even finished yet.

Sinjin P.

September 28th, 2007, 06:36 AM

2 groups support Mactan chamber (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/09/28/news/2.groups.support.mactan.chamber.html)
By Allan I. Varquez
Sun.Star Staff Reporter

BUSINESSMAN Richard King yesterday challenged Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Arturo Radaza to a public debate on issues such as the failure of basic services and corruption in City Hall.

This is to prove who is telling the truth—the mayor or the Mactan Island Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI).

The church-based organization Dilaab, which guards against corruption in government, threw its support behind MICCI.

The group said it is concerned about the revelation of the purchase of overpriced personal computers and if the disparity of figures is confirmed, it will be another case of a grossly disadvantageous contract to the government and the public.

“We find it unacceptable for a local chief executive and his staff to muddle the call for transparency by deviating from the issues at hand. It is a cheap shot to caricature individuals, misleadingly comparing them to revered historical figures,” stated the Dilaab’s letter titled “Silent No More.”

“After all, corruption and good governance are matter of the heart, not appearances,” said Dilaab Foundation Inc. overall coordinating steward Fr. Carmelo Diola, who read the letter in a press conference at a local restaurant yesterday.

But Mayor Radaza said he is determined to implement the law by demolishing all the business structures of MICCI president Efrain Pelaez Jr. that violate the building code and other legal requirements.

“Wala ko magkomedya, tinuod-on nako pagpatuman ang balaod no matter what it takes (I am not joking. I will implement the law),” Radaza said in a short interview.

Of four business firms that City Hall plans to tear down for lack of building permit, only Island Souvenirs in Peza I in
Barangay Pusok is not owned by Pelaez.

The three others—Coral Point Beach and Yacht Club in Barangay Punta Engano, Marina Mall in Barangay Pusok, Mactan South Gate Mall in Barangay Basak (to be demolished)—are owned by Pelaez or are being rented.

The Cebu Business Club also issued a statement of support for Pelaez, saying the dysfunction of Lapu-Lapu City is not only physically evident, but it also suffers from a level of notoriety that can no longer be ignored.

It cited the allegedly overpriced lampposts for the Asean summit and the computer purchase.

Dondi Joseph, the club’s president, said it is regrettable that the city officials justify their misdeeds by attacking their critics rather than by answering the issues.

“As Cebuanos, we all embarrassed and angered by the non-performance of the Lapu-Lapu City Government,” he said.

City Hall also called Pelaez a tax evader for failing to settle P5,409,838 in business and realty taxes with Lapu-Lapu.

The dispute between Pelaez and City Hall worsened after the businessman filed a complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas Ombudsman last week.

Pelaez alleged that the 470 units of computers that Kein Enterprises had supplied to the City were overpriced by half.
The purchase cost the City Government about P23 million for the personal computers priced at P49,500 each.

Diola said Dilaab affirms the right of individuals and groups to demand accountability and transparency from government.

“After all, it is taxpayer’s money that the government is using. Far too long people victimized by corruption either remain silent, murmur in private or dance with the system,” he said in a letter.

But businessman Ernesto Aboitiz, also of Dilaab, suggested that if the group of Pelaez is sincere in its effort, they should help the ombudsman’s office by providing some private lawyers to hasten the investigation of overpriced computers.

“Unfortunately, this has been turned into a vendetta, but the most important is we stand for the right,” he said in the forum.

He said trading barbs with Lapu-Lapu officials and the possibility that the graft complaint might stay unresolved for sometime will tend to show that the case is indeed personal.

“Nothing will happen if we just keep issuing statements against statements. Let us help the anti-graft body hasten their work,” Aboitiz said in a separate talk.

What the f*ck Radaza!?!?!? :puke:

Sinjin P.

September 28th, 2007, 06:47 AM

COA: Cebu has highest equity, assets among LGUs nationwide (http://philstar.com/index.php?Local%20News&p=52&type=2&sec=70&aid=20070927239)

Friday, September 28, 2007

Cebu province has been adjudged as having the highest equity, assets and amount of cash in banks among local government units nationwide by the Commission on Audit.

Cebu’s outstanding financial performance was among the financial highlights of local government units for 2006 made public by the COA yesterday.

Based on the Consolidated Balance Sheet of the Local Governments as of December 31, Cebu topped ten other provinces with the highest current assets, substantial amount of cash in banks and with the highest equity growth. The country has 77 provinces, 115 cities and 1,453 municipalities,

Cebu registered an asset of P1,541.87 followed by Zamboanga del Norte with P1.043.75. In terms of substantial amount of cash in banks, Cebu has P1,015.74 followed by Zamboanga del Norte with P833.58.

In terms of total equity, Cebu has P10,807.70 followed by Rizal with P2,998.62.

However, Cebu ranked number four in liabilities and deferred credits with P864.63 while Nueva Ecija, Palawan and Negros Occidental ranks first, second and third, respectively.

Cebu also registered the second highest net income and expenses at P1,620.02 and P1,340.12. Bulacan topped in both income and expenses with P1,717.60 and P1,349.42.

Cebu also registered the second biggest share of the Internal Revenue Allotment with P1,069.78 while Pangasinan got the biggest with P1,164.26.

Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia told reporters that she does not care if Cebu ranks second in expenses, pointing out that what the province has right now will be utilized to address the needs of her constituents.

“It is incumbent upon us to use our resources to address the need of our constituents. We spend it for programs and projects that will directly benefit our people,” Garcia pointed out.

“In spite of having spent much, there is still so much to spent,” the governor added.

Message to the Freeman: Get a competent copywriter!

Sinjin P.

September 28th, 2007, 06:55 AM

Success of travel fairs paves way for more conventions in Cebu
(http://philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=52&type=2&sec=71&aid=20070927208)
Friday, September 28, 2007

Impressed by the good working relationship between the Cebu provincial government and the tourism players in the private sector, the National Association of Independent Travel Agencies (Naitas) said there is a good chance for Cebu to host the biggest tourism conventions next year.

Naitas chairman Robert Lim Joseph said that the Philippine Travel Exchange, Philippine International Tourism Fair and International Tourism Congress next year might be held in Cebu simultaneously gathering thousands of tourism players around the world.

“What is inviting about Cebu is the private and governments sectors are working hand in hand together and convention delegates from all over the world are more assured of the security and their safety here,” said Joseph.

He explained that if bigger conventions will be held here, that would involve more foreign delegates, organizers like Naitas are confident of the safety for the delegates, saying “If something goes wrong, we know where to push the button.”

Joseph mentioned the success of the recently concluded Philippine Travel Exchange (PhilTex) organized by the Department of Tourism, which was held back to back with Naitas International Tourism Fair earlier this month.

He said the foreign delegates of the PhilTex were very impressed about Cebu, especially the commitment of the local government unit (LGU) here, to push the international tourism.

Joseph said Naitas will work with DOT, and other government agencies to bid for Cebu as the venue for next year’s PhilTex.

“Naitas will forcefully push Cebu again for the holding of the three events next year. This will be the biggest tourism event to be held in Cebu then,” he said in a press conference.

According to Joseph, the foreign buyers who attended this year’s PhilTex were amazed of Cebu’s tourism potential, adding that Cebu will continue to reap the benefits of being the host of the 12th ASEAN Summit, which was held early this year.

The delegates both in PhilTex, and the PITF were very impressed of Cebu. “They [delegates] did not expect what they saw. They only heard of Cebu as secondary city next to Manila, but when they were here, they were surprised of Cebu’s potential for international tourism.”

The presence of the international hotel brands, and the five star resorts is a plus for Cebu, that’s why Joseph said it would be very beneficial for Cebu to attract more international hotel chain to operate here.

He said Cebu has become an emerging international destination for high end tourists, it is important to invite more five-star hotel chains here, or resorts, aside from the existing ones. –

hans boy

September 28th, 2007, 07:54 AM

rage@cebu

September 28th, 2007, 10:39 AM

Cebu's 6th Starbucks Coffee Shop is now open, located along Jones avenue, at the ground floor of Crown Regency Hotel & Towers. It was open at 8 in the morning, September 28 of 2007. Lucky 8, right?

SSC Cebu's maniniyot? Picture! Picture! Please!

i passed by @ starbucks gbie, pero na lowbat ang cam, daghan2x xad cya ug tawo... gkan ko Cebu coliseum after an event.

rage@cebu

September 28th, 2007, 10:47 AM

For me, there is nothing wrong with Gaisano Country Mall. Maybe others are just hesitant to express their admiration for GCM since it has been branded as "the yayas' mall" :lol:

i don't think it is a "yaya's mall" before and even after BTC came it is still the preferred mall to buy groceries and stuff by people from "Cebu City North".

you don't spend money because the place is nice, you spend because the things you need are there.

the thing is: im not a mall rat, tambay ra ko... :cheers: pero in fairness pra nko ang Banilad kay mura na ug Cubao. ang country mall kay mura ug farmers... hahahaha!

tj_brewed

September 28th, 2007, 10:51 AM

^^ I like the architecture of Gaisano Country Mall. It looked like that when I was still a kid....uhmmmmm when I was till 8 or 9 years old and it still is 'till today. There is something with its architecture which for me is eternally beautiful! kahit marami ng malls here in Cebu, I still love its design then, today, and probably tomorrow! :okay:

rage@cebu

September 28th, 2007, 11:18 AM

kinsa gnahan mu.kuyog sa Lunatrek ugma??? organized by Cebu Mountaineering Alliance. location kay BARILI.

ad2 lng mu sa Escario (acroos KUKUKS NEST) or UP area 9am... bring your own gear! bsta daghan climbers magtambay!

kung gusto mu.libre sa registration just contact me(SSC CEBU only)... khbaw naman mu ako number. pero i will be leaving early and not with the group kay mag set.up pa mi sa Sound system did2...

habagatcentral1

September 28th, 2007, 11:30 AM

For me, there is nothing wrong with Gaisano Country Mall. Maybe others are just hesitant to express their admiration for GCM since it has been branded as "the yayas' mall" :lol:

^^ Is there something wrong with being branded as "yaya's mall"? I don't think so! Because by the way you imply your statement, its quite degrading for our kasambahay. They do have a noble job too. :nono:

kinsa gnahan mu.kuyog sa Lunatrek ugma??? organized by Cebu Mountaineering Alliance. location kay BARILI.

ad2 lng mu sa Escario (acroos KUKUKS NEST) or UP area 9am... bring your own gear! bsta daghan climbers magtambay!

kung gusto mu.libre sa registration just contact me(SSC CEBU only)... khbaw naman mu ako number. pero i will be leaving early and not with the group kay mag set.up pa mi sa Sound system did2...

^^ Gaulan bai, nahan ko pero dili pud ko pwede. Text lang ko.

rage@cebu

September 28th, 2007, 12:13 PM

Gaulan bai, nahan ko pero dili pud ko pwede. Text lang ko.

2 days and 2 nights did2. wa pa xad ko khbaw sa terrain kay new site man cya monday na blik Cebu City. you have to survive. pero malingaw jud mo.

demented_pigeon

September 28th, 2007, 12:16 PM

^^ Is there something wrong with being branded as "yaya's mall"? I don't think so! Because by the way you imply your statement, its quite degrading for our kasambahay. They do have a noble job too. :nono:

^^ Gaulan bai, nahan ko pero dili pud ko pwede. Text lang ko.

exactly, and as what bernie has already written, kasambahay is the politically correct term.

Sinjin P.

September 28th, 2007, 12:18 PM

^^ Is there something wrong with being branded as "yaya's mall"? I don't think so! Because by the way you imply your statement, its quite degrading for our kasambahay. They do have a noble job too. :nono:

I was not representing myself but the general public. When I mention to people about GCM, this "yaya" thing immediately pops out. So we can't blame them for their opinions ;)

habagatcentral1

September 28th, 2007, 12:20 PM

^^ How degrading isn't it to use "yaya" in such manner? To think of it they're working hard to feed their families back home. And then the "general public" would blame the Tagalogs for saying Cebuanos or Bisayans are "yayas" while we ourselves have this kind of mentality in our own turf. :ohno: And to think of it, vast majority of our populace is MASA.

Ako, unsay labot kon ganahan ko sa GCM or other "yaya" or "pang-masa malls"? I even go to Colon to buy some stuff. Some rich people do that.

I'm quite very stingy when it comes to terms that may be degrading such as "servants" instead of "employees".

dive-cebu

September 28th, 2007, 12:41 PM

oh com'n sinj!!! are you serious when you're saying "GENERAL PUBLIC"? Maybe the general public you know are those who belong to your social class and not really the "MASA" which compose much of the general public, statistically. if you ask the MASA, do you think they have the same perception towards Gaisano Country Mall??? :bash:

I was not representing myself but the general public. When I mention to people about GCM, this "yaya" thing immediately pops out. So we can't blame them for their opinions ;)

Sinjin P.

September 28th, 2007, 12:43 PM

Well I'm saying general public because the people below the poverty line account to only 21% of the society. Thus the middle class can now be considered as the "general public". Please do correct me if I am wrong

habagatcentral1

September 28th, 2007, 12:49 PM

^^ Who said who? NSCB? Some people are even questioning their standard that a person can live for only P80 a year ago. Middle class? Remember, the middle class is also divided into several classes, the upper and the lower. A vast majority is still in the lower middle class and the middle class themselves generally doesn't care whether they'll go to so-called "Ayaya Malls". The peitit-bourgeoisis and the proletariat is still part of the masa as we know since they are the working class. They still comprise vast majority of our populace.

dive-cebu

September 28th, 2007, 01:08 PM

based on NSCB latest data, the poverty incidence in the philippines is still a high of 33%. even if this is less than 50% of the total population, we cannot safely assume as well that a big chunk of the population belongs to the middle class, because middle class are being sub-classified also. and in this sub-classification, a big number of them are still part of the "masa" or the "jolog" type... so they themselves won't think the way you perceive Gaisano Country Mall as a "YAYA" mall.

Sinjin P.

September 28th, 2007, 01:12 PM

so they themselves won't think the way you perceive Gaisano Country Mall as a "YAYA" mall.

Who said that I perceive Gaisano Country Mall as a yaya mall? I even go there frequently since there are a lot of good and affordable finds there. Learn how to read and understand please. As I said, I was basing my post on comments I hear when I mention the name, Gaisano Country Mall. And mind you, even those who are perceived to be poor would rather go to SM or Ayala than Gaisano Country Mall. Ewan ko nalang, this world is full of social climbers. Why can't they be real even to themselves? :ohno:

dive-cebu

September 28th, 2007, 01:25 PM

sinjin, i know how to read and in fact, i have deeper understanding than what you have... i'm not being biased because im much older than you but im saying this because im the one with more experience (in the corporate world that is) and more exposure. the way you're saying it, it's as if, you are just asking people about their perception on Gaisano Country Mall. But let me ask you, who are those people that you talk to? Do you rub elbows with the poor, huh? Did you ever try to visit and talk to people in depressed areas even in your own locality? i don't think so my friend! i did a lot of research in my college years sinj, and that was the time when my eyes and ears were opened to the realities of this country, esp on its state of poverty. it's not enough that you're reading books, go online, watch the news or hear it from other people. it requires first hand experience to have a clear understanding about their lives and i don't think you have done so much about it... so be careful with what you're saying, you're a kid and you have a lot of things to learn. just a piece of advice though. im not here to argue.

Who said that I perceive Gaisano Country Mall as a yaya mall? I even go there frequently since there are a lot of good and affordable finds there. Learn how to read and understand please. As I said, I was basing my post on comments I hear when I mention the name, Gaisano Country Mall. And mind you, even those who are perceived to be poor would rather go to SM or Ayala than Gaisano Country Mall. Ewan ko nalang, this world is full of social climbers. Why can't they be real even to themselves? :ohno:

SugarFreak

September 28th, 2007, 01:33 PM

cebu on the top of the world
http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t226/cosmosnegros/Picture32.jpg
http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t226/cosmosnegros/cebutop.jpg
(by karloil)

dabert

September 28th, 2007, 01:40 PM

tj_brewed

September 28th, 2007, 01:40 PM

^^ nice pix (of our beloved cebu) u got there sugarfreak! thnx for sharing :okay:

tj_brewed

September 28th, 2007, 01:46 PM

wala lang, it's only now that i realized.. malls are expanding like crazy! hehe
we've got SM (northwing), Ayala (Phases 1 to 3), Emall (Sanciangko side), JY Square IT Mall, Mactan Marina mall, Gaisano Tabunok (parking area side), and just recently, Gaisano Capital South..

not to mention the 2 u/c malls in Mandaue Recla, Boardwalk and Parkmall@168.. plus the 'wasted' Ciudad mall.. :D

Plus the constructions of pocket and strip malls in Mabolo, Mango, and IT Park :okay:

Sinjin P.

September 28th, 2007, 01:48 PM

@Div: So you're questioning me and you think I'm just blabbering here without experience? Well let me tell you, I've been to the depressed areas in Basak-San Nicolas, in Tipolo Mandaue and in other places I cannot remember for several social awareness activities where we had to walk through waist deep stagnant waters with floating garbage and had to clean poop of kids. I don't need to exaggerate. So I have the right to say to you that you're the one who should be careful of what you're saying. When our group asked the families where they would get their commodities, some said, from the public markets, and some said, from the shopping malls. When we asked them to be specific about the malls they're talking about, they said "Ayala (specifically Metro Ayala), Metro Colon and SM". Now we asked them about other malls such as Gaisano Country Mall, Happy Mart, etc., they themselves despised these places since they branded those are "yaya" malls and that they wouldn't want to be reminded of the miserable lives they are experiencing. So do you think that isn't enough? I could go back to those places and be a field journalist to record on video all that they say about their "kapwa" poor. I was really pissed when I realized the fact that they are poor and suffering and yet they have the courage to belittle the other poor people around them

EDIT: Before we go misunderstanding each other, let me add that I'm cool and we're on a healthy discussion and exchange of ideas mode :D

Sinjin P.

September 28th, 2007, 01:49 PM

wala lang, it's only now that i realized.. malls are expanding like crazy! hehe
we've got SM (northwing), Ayala (Phases 1 to 3), Emall (Sanciangko side), JY Square IT Mall, Mactan Marina mall, Gaisano Tabunok (parking area side), and just recently, Gaisano Capital South..

not to mention the 2 u/c malls in Mandaue Recla, Boardwalk and Parkmall@168.. plus the 'wasted' Ciudad mall.. :D

Yes, malls are expanding and mushrooming like crazy. I'm glad that the retail sector is finally addressing the lack of retail spaces in Cebu. :okay:

Mactan Marina Mall is expanding? As of the latest, I heard that our very respectable city mayor is planning to demolish MMM.

dabert

September 28th, 2007, 01:54 PM

^^ wasn't there a rendering showing the expansion of Marina mall? but it could be for BPO spaces only..

Sinjin P.

September 28th, 2007, 01:56 PM

^ That 10 or 11 storey structure? I think that is still on proposal stage.

Meanwhile, the only u/c in the area that I am aware of is the "Vidichi IT Complex" across Mactan Marina Mall and some other midrises along M.L. Quezon Avenue

habagatcentral1

September 28th, 2007, 02:19 PM

Who said that I perceive Gaisano Country Mall as a yaya mall? I even go there frequently since there are a lot of good and affordable finds there. Learn how to read and understand please. As I said, I was basing my post on comments I hear when I mention the name, Gaisano Country Mall. And mind you, even those who are perceived to be poor would rather go to SM or Ayala than Gaisano Country Mall. Ewan ko nalang, this world is full of social climbers. Why can't they be real even to themselves? :ohno:

@Div: So you're questioning me and you think I'm just blabbering here without experience? Well let me tell you, I've been to the depressed areas in Basak-San Nicolas, in Tipolo Mandaue and in other places I cannot remember for several social awareness activities where we had to walk through waist deep stagnant waters with floating garbage and had to clean poop of kids. I don't need to exaggerate. So I have the right to say to you that you're the one who should be careful of what you're saying. When our group asked the families where they would get their commodities, some said, from the public markets, and some said, from the shopping malls. When we asked them to be specific about the malls they're talking about, they said "Ayala (specifically Metro Ayala), Metro Colon and SM". Now we asked them about other malls such as Gaisano Country Mall, Happy Mart, etc., they themselves despised these places since they branded those are "yaya" malls and that they wouldn't want to be reminded of the miserable lives they are experiencing. So do you think that isn't enough? I could go back to those places and be a field journalist to record on video all that they say about their "kapwa" poor. I was really pissed when I realized the fact that they are poor and suffering and yet they have the courage to belittle the other poor people around them

EDIT: Before we go misunderstanding each other, let me add that I'm cool and we're on a healthy discussion and exchange of ideas mode :D

Idiosyncracies and social stratification! Haynaku! Darn social constructs and the lie called statistics! The reality is, there are a lot of poor people who can't even afford to eat 3 times a day.

I do not blame these people if they be going to these malls as they have the right to go there. Malls are free for all. I do not call them names. Why? What is it wrong if we have to say it Ayaya Malls?

A simple statement could lead to so many misunderstandings. Shall we be more "socially sensitive"?

Haynakupo! Social stratification. :bash: At times like these, its so nice to be a communist! I'm, so sorry but I'm very irritated with these "socially insensitive" statements.

animasola

September 28th, 2007, 02:44 PM

^^Actually... ganahan ko mahimo'g communist nation ang Pilipinas. :D
Opinyon lang, maayo unta wala'y masuko. :cheers:

That was OT. Mabuhi Sugbo!

flesh_is_weak

September 28th, 2007, 04:07 PM

leylander

September 28th, 2007, 04:48 PM

the moderator always blurts out the weirdest things. lol

SleMarKen

September 28th, 2007, 05:25 PM

sinj, is your avatar taken from this? just asking.

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCCebuHilton18.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/flickr/sinj.jpg

leylander

September 28th, 2007, 05:27 PM

^^ it kinda looks like it was taken from that photo. but who knows...

Jimbu

September 28th, 2007, 06:08 PM

Cebu no. 1 in assets, profits; 864-M ‘debt’ surprises gov (http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/news/view_article.php?article_id=91260)

By Suzzane Salva-Alueta
Cebu Daily News
Last updated 11:44am (Mla time) 09/28/2007

CEBU CITY, Philippines - Cebu Province ranked number one in terms of assets, cash in bank, and total equity among provinces in 2006, according to a report on the financial status of local governments published by the Commission on Audit (COA).

However, Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia expressed surprise at seeing that Cebu ranked 4th among provinces with the highest liabilities and deferred credits totaling P864.63 million.

“Nganong naa may liability nga kapin sa P800 million? (Why do we have a liability of more than P800 million?) Dios por Santo!” she asked Provincial Accountant Marieto Ypil after calling him into her office. “I-eksplikar na nga wala man tay debt, nganong naa man tay liability? (Explain why we would have liabilities when we don’t have any debts?)”

Ypil said he did not bring a breakdown of the COA’s report, but explained that the liability covers payables for the operations of the provincial government to different government units and outside creditors.

He also said that the liabilities included the provincial government’s payables at the end of 2006, funds for which were released in early 2007.

“It also includes unreleased checks that the claimants have yet to get from the treasurer, as well as checks committed to pay contractors as of Dec. 31, 2006, who haven’t been paid yet because their papers were still being processed,” he said.

The provincial accountant also said he included as liabilities financial assistance that the Capitol prepared for towns but were not released as of the end of 2006. To this, the governor reacted.

“How can that be a liability when that’s our own money? It is incumbent upon us to give it or not. It’s obviously a misappreciation of figures and interpretations of transactions. The financial assistance is based upon goodwill and the judgment of the governor. It’s the approval or disapproval of the governor, why should it be considered a liability?” the governor told Ypil.

Ypil admitted the error on the part of his office.

“Yes, that financial assistance to the LGUs was misrepresented. (The COA’s figures) does not represent debts... or loans. We do not have borrowings,” he said.

The governor pointed out that the same error was committed by the accounting office for the past four years and that she had already told the office to correct it.

In the COA’s Financial Highlights of Local Government Units for fiscal year 2006 published in the Philippine Daily Inquirer on Sept. 27, Cebu was first in total assets at P1.541 billion. It also had the most money stored in banks at P1.015 billion and was first in total equity at P10.807 billion.

The Cebu provincial government, which earlier bragged of its “zero debt,” was also the second biggest spender among the provinces, having spent P1.340 billion, and second biggest earner, profiting P1.620 billion. Bulacan topped both lists.

“It is incumbent upon us to use our resources to address the needs of our constituents, to spend it for programs and projects that would directly benefit our people,” said Garcia. “We must spend but we must spend wisely.”

“Lupigan man nato ang city, wala gud sila ma-lista (We beat Cebu City. They’re not even on any of the lists),” she said.

According to the COA, Cebu City failed to submit a financial statement for 2006.

Cebu City Administrator Francisco Fernandez told Cebu Daily News that City Hall encountered a number of problems that caused them to fail to submit a financial statement.

He cited an incompatibility of computer systems between City Hall and the COA.

“The problem boils down to the Electronic Accounting System used by COA,” Fernandez said.

According to Fernandez, the city had difficulties converting its account system to the system proposed by the COA. When City Hall started using the COA’s system, the “computers bogged down,” he said.

“We have not yet finished making a financial statement for 2006. We haven’t closed the books. People are working overtime to finish it,” he said.

He denied rumors that the city deliberately failed to submit a financial statement so as not to show that it was deep in debt.

“We don’t have any new debts. We’ve reached the point wherein we can no longer take out loans. Our debt for 2006 was a lot less than in previous years. We already paid P500 million for the SRP, as well as the condominium project of (former mayor) Alvin Garcia,” he said. “Cebu City has been religiously paying last years’ loans.”

He said the financial statement for 2006 is expected to be finished within two months. With Correspondent Diane G. Luar

TagaCebu

September 28th, 2007, 11:34 PM

http://www.bsp.gov.ph/statistics/keystat/ofw.htm
1997 to JULY 2007 OVERSEAS FILIPINOS' REMITTANCES BY COUNTRY, BY SOURCE

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view_article.php?article_id=67002
In 2006, OFWs sent back to their local beneficiaries $12.6 billion through the banking system alone. The central bank estimates that this amount is even understated by an average of 30 percent because of funds sent home through informal channels. At the low end, this means that as much as $4.2 billion in OFW funds were spent on the real estate sector last year--a figure that will rise further, given the central bank's expectations of as much as $14 billion in remittances for 2007. (http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view_article.php?article_id=67002)
------------------------------------------------------
http://www.arabnews.com/?page=4&section=0&article=84167&d=22&m=6&y=2006
"MANILA, 22 June 2006 — Remittances from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are expected to increase by another 20 percent this year, judging from the $3.7 billion sent through banking channels from January to April 2006, the Central Bank of the Philippines (BSP) has said. According to a BSP survey of households in Metro Manila, only 11 percent of OFW families attempt to invest in the stock market or engage in business. A larger 39 percent kept savings in banks and other depository institutions.
About 10 percent of households in Metro Manila have at least one OFW, the survey showed. Of these families, 91.3 percent received remittances in the past 12 months.
The survey also showed that nearly all — 95.5 percent — of the households used part of the remittances to buy food and pay for other domestic expenditures."
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=4&section=0&article=84167&d=22&m=6&y=2006)=======================================================

May I add to this:
While waiting for "uyab", business contact or just safely hanging out,
we can be aware what a Yaya really is.... we see in the mall might be:.
-a plastic CARD purchaser linked to foreign account
who does NOT wear NAME BRAND CLOTHES made in China.
-Yaya might need a wheelbarrow to carry all the CASH.
-an OFW housewife or a dark skinned worker from the Middle East,
-a sunburned and darkened Stateside person from the resort (a farm worker)
-a helper attending foreign kids, retiree/ balikbayan looking for an imported brand,
-a returning baby boomers who wants to see the price tag to divide to dollars.
-after shopping loads up an SUV.
SHOPPING TIPS:
Since Gaisano owns the store just like Wal-Mart the prices are assumed to be cheaper. For "canned goods", shop at smaller stores when prices go up, they are slower in changing it.
Shopping Centers are designed to make us feel rested, distracted and entertained. The shops, the celebrities and some who cannot even afford it will tell us what is the latest trend and good for us. Bring the whole family too.
It is just like going to Casinos they make us hope, spend and bet.

Look at the cemeteries they are now called Memorial. They said the fences are put up because everybody is dying to get in. "Modern" food preparations made more for consumption- eating for pleasure rather than nourishment and health are killing us with diseases common to western world. My parents, grandparents and aunts live up to near nineties. Both my brother and my sister did not make it to their retirement age due partly though they had w/ access were too late or no trusts in life extending science; of w/c developed western governments cannot even cover all their citizens.

The Ayala is like an upgrade with style of Tabo-an and Carbon.

With a nice freezer, Pasil in early mornings is still the best, cheapest and freshest for fish.
Talisay for meat. La Nueva, FOODARAMA and ROSITA’S for imported food and household.

Money is how you spend it. You can get richer too.

To OFW use of debit card from a Check Cashing outlets such "NETSPEND CARD" is the cheapest though not the safest. Cost only $3 (1.50 to deposit and 1.50 deduct to withdraw)
http://www.netspend.com...DO NOT USE IT AS A SAVINGS ACCOUNT. ...Leave NO MONEY when not in use. The purpose is full control. You can cancel it anytime or change PIN.
You have a choice of a VISA or MC card. No yearly fees. One time fee of $9.95 on sale $7 good for 4 yrs. Xerox it and send the original w/ a letter , pics or docu and put inside something like Hershey Bar or between unbendeable cardboard by Johnny Air...about $8 upto a pound or less ....and surely not by Post Office
Howto: e.g. to send $100 you need $103
Everytime before deposit change thru PC internet the PIN Number.
After that tell the beneficiary the new PIN, before it can be withdrawn.
Closest to whole amount + $1.50 must be withdrawn , it will cost $1.50 per withdrawal.
Leave $19.99 or less balance. AVOID ATM that charges to check balance.like CITIBANK does.
To avoid these Charges: Check website if withdrawal has been made and change the PIN.

great184

September 29th, 2007, 03:42 AM

Hi guys I was at Cebu last week for an entire day, was looking for a place to stay that night but ended up staying at this hostel near Golden Peak. that charged me 700 for overnight. Problem was that the amenities they had were sub-standard for the amount that I paid. Im planning to go there again this November can anyone give me tips on places to stay around the city for about the same price or lower. All i want are the basic amenities, especially a clean bathroom with preferably hot/cold shower.

blueguy

September 29th, 2007, 04:29 AM

Guys there's a new attarction at the SM Mall of Asia...

THE SCIENCE DISCOVERY CENTER...an interactive science museum equipped with the latest technology. May planetarium, earthquake simulation room, parang star trek...It will open on Oct. We were the first ones to tour the new attraction. Surely, it will be a crowd drawer. In fact it is now fully-booked up to Feb 2008!

great184

September 29th, 2007, 04:33 AM

One thing I noticed about cebu thats better than manila... The taxi drivers give change hehe :)

animasola

September 29th, 2007, 04:38 AM

^^Yessss.... and they don't take advantage of you whether it's raining, during dawn, having stops or when you're drunk. By taking advantage I mean the regular, "Boss pa dagdag/plus po" or "Ulitin natin ang metro".

Regarding your accommodation, why not SOGO? hehe... some motel or YMCA?

ofw_cebu

September 29th, 2007, 07:13 AM

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 07:55 AM

sinj, is your avatar taken from this? just asking.

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCCebuHilton18.jpg

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/flickr/sinj.jpg

Yes, from Kentaro's Flickr. :)

Guys there's a new attarction at the SM Mall of Asia...

THE SCIENCE DISCOVERY CENTER...an interactive science museum equipped with the latest technology. May planetarium, earthquake simulation room, parang star trek...It will open on Oct. We were the first ones to tour the new attraction. Surely, it will be a crowd drawer. In fact it is now fully-booked up to Feb 2008!

Nice, is it available to the public on April 2008? I might include that to my list of 2008 summer destinations

^^Yessss.... and they don't take advantage of you whether it's raining, during dawn, having stops or when you're drunk. By taking advantage I mean the regular, "Boss pa dagdag/plus po" or "Ulitin natin ang metro".

Regarding your accommodation, why not SOGO? hehe... some motel or YMCA?

Not entirely true. Most drivers ask dagdag especially if they assume that they'll get no passenger on their way back to the city. This is always my experience when riding a taxi from Cebu to Lapulapu

chixy

September 29th, 2007, 08:03 AM

ALAM NYO BA KUNG SAAN TO?

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a97/van1975/006.jpg

SIRIT?

wer d hell is this heavenly paradise?!...OMG!..ill add this to my vacation list..

chixy

September 29th, 2007, 08:08 AM

^^hehe! gutom na hinuon ko!!! yummy! parisan nlang ug emperador kay dili jud kadulot ang redhorse kung dra mag.inum! :cheers:

nindut kaayo magwedding dra kung naa ka budget... you will need 5 pumpboats kung naa kay 200 guests... :)

just wanna know where to ask details about staying in this island...i nid contact numbers..thanx!

puhleez!

ofw_cebu

September 29th, 2007, 08:15 AM

wer d hell is this heavenly paradise?!...OMG!..ill add this to my vacation list..

dili ba na siya island which is owned by the Ouanos daw, you can go there by pump boat, if am not mistaken, naka anha mi diha sauna, mingaw kaayo, pure white sand and experience wise, nindot....1,500 bayad namo for island hopping.....

SleMarKen

September 29th, 2007, 08:18 AM

S T A R B U C K S

Cebu's 6th located at the Crown Regency

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCStarbucks.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCStarbucks3.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCStarbucks2.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCStarbucks1.jpg

Jarenz

September 29th, 2007, 09:16 AM

People going to the mall doesn't represent their social preference...
All the malls is free for all...

it won't matter what they look like... and purpose/Intention in going to mall...

Were not like Manila....

chixy

September 29th, 2007, 09:34 AM

dang! post it post it! pleaaase! i'll wait for the it! i will not log out till i dont see the rendering. but hey, i hope its nice, pero kung mukhang tiangge lang din, awww, ok lang din :lol:

tiangge?!..ive heard their not connected to 168 in Manila..they got the 168 number from their address..and the Tiangge ur referring to is their Value Zone area..ok mn ilang stalls kay naa mn roll - up doors and its centralized airconditioned daw..:cheer:

chixy

September 29th, 2007, 09:43 AM

^ Yeah, I'm also intrigued as to what we'll expect to see inside this much awaited Parkmall@168. Construction on the mall is really on full swing but I bet it won't open by December 2007.

..i think ang full swing opening kay next yr na..by phasing mn daw ang ila opening..im not sure which area will be Phase 1 and Phase 2..:(

(attn:ALL SSC Maniniyot..pls post U/C of PARKMALL!)

chixy

September 29th, 2007, 09:50 AM

^^ hehehe! im also excited about the renderings inside the mall! another GRAND MALL for Cebu!!! hope the mall would be a BIG party place... pwede kaya open 24hrs??? meron naman maraming hotel at motel sa NRA.

hahaha!.yeah right.. 24hrs!..seeing from their billboard at the site..the food strip outside has separate entrance/exit..there's no need to pass inside the Mall..(sakto ba ko?!).. so if naa na mga coffee shops, restaurants and other food choices, pwd siguro late closing..if 24 hrs?..maybe.. hehehe!..

great184

September 29th, 2007, 10:19 AM

Thanks for the advice animasola and ofw_cebu, yup what i did look for was a pension-house or motel-type... hehe for nighttime activities...

rage@cebu

September 29th, 2007, 10:39 AM

just wanna know where to ask details about staying in this island...i nid contact numbers..thanx!

puhleez!

don't know about the contact details to book the island for special purposes, but im certain they do accept reservations... maybe you can ask your Hotel about going there or from pumpboat operators.

ninduta dri sa Barili, naa man smartbro sa bukid! people have internet connection here bsag layo kaayo sa town center!!!

Ex!lE

September 29th, 2007, 11:27 AM

don't know about the contact details to book the island for special purposes, but im certain they do accept reservations... maybe you can ask your Hotel about going there or from pumpboat operators.

ninduta dri sa Barili, naa man smartbro sa bukid! people have internet connection here bsag layo kaayo sa town center!!!

mao na target market sa smartbro, bai rage, nga maprovidan ug internet connection ang mga remote areas.

animasola

September 29th, 2007, 11:39 AM

^^Yep, areas with no phone connection. Pero competent ba ang surfing speeds dira sa bukid or pwerte sang hinaya? Hinay baya smart bro bisag sa Siudad. :(

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 11:43 AM

^ The speed of Smart BRO depends on how strong the signal for the Smart Mobile SIM is. Well, Smart has been claiming of having the widest coverage in the whole archipelago so, ummm, maybe.

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 11:46 AM

1000 posts.

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 11:49 AM

Welcome to Cebu's 63rd Thread!

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/9420/1454993973f176058b91byc4.jpg
Overview of Cebu City from the Tops Skyline Garden

by Setiritter (http://flickr.com/photos/setiritter/)

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 11:49 AM

The Interior of Parkmall@168

http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/6324/interior608x422vb5.jpg

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 11:52 AM

If you guys haven't noticed, the new SM logo has been partially put up at SM's Northwing.

We'll soon be saying goodbye to this SM City Cebu logo:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1208/1456451971_b3f334946f.jpg

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 11:59 AM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1183/1454102168_70ae7c0f5d.jpg
St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in Carcar, Cebu
by ianfelix (http://flickr.com/photos/ianfelix/)

-----
Who among the SSC Cebu forumers have been to this church recently? The last time I've been there, it was poorly maintained. That thing where they place holy water (what do you call that? :D) is full of mosquito larvae and lots of trash can be found inside the church and its surrounding grounds :)

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 12:00 PM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1036/1452912846_601b31b510_o.jpg
Santander, Cebu by HaZie ^_~ (http://flickr.com/photos/13552416@N03/)

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 12:04 PM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1386/1386580172_3cd41393be_b.jpg
Cebu! by ch!ppy (http://flickr.com/photos/chippys/)

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 12:05 PM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1437/1411721288_f2b2b3c383_b.jpg
Mandaue City Hospital by tads161984 (http://flickr.com/photos/13660673@N06/)

-----
Are there people using this facility? We always pass by MCH but we get the impression that the facility is not being used but maybe that's just because we're seeing just the facade of the hospital and the main entrance is at the back

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 12:09 PM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1368/1271485587_d27a57c2f5_o.jpg
Barili, Cebu by renidon (http://flickr.com/photos/87326646@N00/)

-----
Forumer rage@cebu is currently enjoying the beauty and austerity of the place :)

leylander

September 29th, 2007, 12:17 PM

happy 63 Cebu!

rage@cebu

September 29th, 2007, 12:25 PM

Forumer rage@cebu is currently enjoying the beauty and austerity of the place :)

its raining and super lamig!!! lunatrek unta pero wa pa jud koy nakit.an nga buwan kay tungod sa weather. thanks to Generoso and emperado brandy for keeping us warm up here!

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 12:28 PM

^ Chill, chill, sa ilalim ng buwan. :cheers:

rage@cebu

September 29th, 2007, 12:32 PM

^ Chill, chill, sa ilalim ng buwan. :cheers:

ni skwela ka gnha sinJ??? nagkita mu ni ton2x? Antonio Bande???

bugnaw jud kaayo. lingaw xad unta ug naa rko sa Cebu City kay nindut duwa ug poker krn., daghan bya tawo sa hideout krn! :cheers: pero ok ra kay panagsa rman xad ang climb.

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 12:34 PM

^ Oh, so you're friends with Tonton? Absent siya last week and classes today have been called-off since our instructor was scheduled for a check-up

Sinjin P.

September 29th, 2007, 12:49 PM

Update: After the renovation of the foodcourt of SM City Cebu, the replacement of the old floor tiles of the whole mall into new and modern tiles (similar to those at the Mall of Asia) has begun. I commend the management of SM for listening to the needs of their patrons. They have already addressed the problem of having to cross from the tip of the building to the other tip by providing lots of benches along the way, good job. Now, one more thing, I hope they add more comfort rooms. I like how the comfort rooms at Ayala are being positioned, very convenient ;)

rage@cebu

September 29th, 2007, 12:51 PM

^ Oh, so you're friends with Tonton? Absent siya last week and classes today have been called-off since our instructor was scheduled for a check-up

he's my barkada since elementary years @ USC-BS. nagpuyo man xad ko sa ilaha (most of the time).

cge2x kay bsig mahimu ni ug chatroom ang Cebu thread... hehehe!

blueguy

September 29th, 2007, 03:51 PM

flesh_is_weak

September 29th, 2007, 05:01 PM

its raining and super lamig!!! lunatrek unta pero wa pa jud koy nakit.an nga buwan kay tungod sa weather. thanks to Generoso and emperado brandy for keeping us warm up here!

mokuyog unta baya mi sa akong barkada anang lunatrek kung wala ta mi'y research

btw, functional na ang strabucks jones?

ofw_cebu

September 29th, 2007, 05:03 PM

para kang great18......and those who are asking about where to stay in Cebu, just check this link http://www.wayblima.com/cebu-web-directory/businesses-tourism-and-leisure-accommodation-facilities-city-accommodation.html or visit wayblima.com and surf through the site, you will find the details needed there.....

animasola

September 29th, 2007, 05:49 PM

@Jhaelnis

Beautiful Pics.

islandergirl

September 30th, 2007, 12:25 AM

The Interior of Parkmall@168

http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/6324/interior608x422vb5.jpg

sinj, mao ni siya unta ang ako nga i post. Salamat:banana: :banana: awesome .

Sinjin P.

September 30th, 2007, 02:46 AM

Yes they will add...

Thank You. That will be a lot of help since SM will be where I will be schooling for the next 3 years or so. :happy:

mokuyog unta baya mi sa akong barkada anang lunatrek kung wala ta mi'y research

btw, functional na ang strabucks jones?

Yeah, Starbucks Jones is functional. I think there are photos posted in the previous Cebu thread and the Starbucks thread

Mootown

September 30th, 2007, 05:56 AM

http://www.cebuexhibition.com/main/

ofw_cebu

September 30th, 2007, 08:46 AM

Cebu fourth in list of top emerging BPO locations--survey

Agence France-Presse
Last updated 12:14pm (Mla time) 09/30/2007
Most Read
BANGALORE, India--Cebu in the Philippines has come in fourth in a list of 15 emerging outsourcing destinations for global companies, an industry report said Sunday.

However, India remains the favored technology outsourcing destination, according to the report, amid concerns a rising rupee and soaring wages would blunt the country's competitive edge.

A study by industry publication Global Services and investment advisory firm Tholons put the Indian cities of Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune at the top of a list of 15 destination.

Kolkata at number five and Chandigarh at number nine were the other two Indian locations on the list, which contained three Chinese and two Vietnamese cities as well.

The three hot cities for outsourcing from China were Shanghai at number eight, Beijing at 10 and Shenzhen at 13. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi were put at number six and number 12.

The Sri Lankan capital of Colombo at seven, Cairo at 11, Buenos Aires at 14 and Sao Paulo at 15, the study's sponsors said in a statement released in Bangalore.

The list is based on criteria such as scale and quality of workforce, financial infrastructure, risk environment and quality of life.

But it does not include established outsourcing locations such as Bangalore, the New Delhi capital region, Manila, Mumbai and Dublin that have had a decade's headstart.

Costs are surging in the prime cities in India, which has earned a reputation as the world's back office, as property values and rentals rise and wages increase at an annual pace of more than 15 percent amid a shortage of skilled employees.

Indian outsourcing firms are also feeling the pinch from an appreciating rupee, which dents dollar-billed earnings, forcing them to cut costs by expanding to less expensive locations.

"With the demand-supply gap widening, newer tier II cities will play a critical role in re-engineered globalisation models," said Tholons chairman Avinash Vashistha.

"Destinations will need to provide greater level of cost effectiveness and operational efficiency."

India's outsourcing companies have thrived by winning work from companies in the US and Europe that sought to tap the country's low costs and large employee pool by handing over jobs ranging from answering customers' calls to risk management and financial analysis.

Pure-play outsourcing firms account for about 10 percent of the $50 billion in revenue logged in the year ended March by the entire information technology industry, which also includes software giants such as Tata Consultancy and Infosys.

dabert

September 30th, 2007, 03:03 PM

parang newly-asphalted ang Basak-Pardo highway ah.. the other side still looks old though. :)

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h110/dabert/Cebu%20Pics/xPIC073.jpg

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h110/dabert/Cebu%20Pics/xPIC072.jpg

Sinjin P.

September 30th, 2007, 03:28 PM

^ Is that a mosque I'm seeing in the second pic?

animasola

September 30th, 2007, 04:08 PM

Whoah... I never knew we had a sizeable muslim population to sustain a Mosque.

leylander

September 30th, 2007, 06:59 PM

dili lang cebuano moslems muvisit ana nga mosque.

a huge number of moslem businessmen/students from mindanao who are in town for business, board exams, or work, go there.

daghan pud moslem sa may mambaling area up to sa may pasil dapit.

ubay2x gyud na sila. remember that time when manila was threatened by moslem extremist groups about bombings? mayor tom asked for the support of the moslem community in cebu. their leaders promised to keep cebu safe from terrorist threats.

http://static.flickr.com/125/320494158_826d90d127.jpg?v=0
http://static.flickr.com/129/320494252_5fb4d0b197.jpg?v=0

PINOYmeat

September 30th, 2007, 07:21 PM

Cebu 4th globally

CEBU landed number four among 15 emerging outsourcing destinations for global companies, according to an industry report.

India, though, remains the most favored technology outsourcing destination despite concerns that a rising rupee and soaring wages would blunt the country’s competitive edge.

A study by industry publication Global Services and investment advisory firm Tholons put the Indian cities of Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune at the top of a list of 15 emerging outsourcing destinations for global companies.

In an interview with Sun.Star Cebu, Cebu Investment Promotions Center (CIPC) executive director Joel Mari Yu said he expects Cebu to reach number one, as the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry here is rising compared to that in India.

Costs are surging in the prime cities in India, which has earned a reputation as the world’s back office, as property values and rentals rise and wages increase at an annual pace of more than 15 percent amid a shortage of skilled employees.

Indian outsourcing firms are also feeling the pinch from an appreciating rupee, which dents dollar-billed earnings, forcing them to cut costs by expanding to less expensive locations.

Demand outpaces supply

“With the demand-supply gap widening, newer tier II cities will play a critical role in reengineered globalization models,” said Tholons chairman Avinash Vashistha.

“Destinations will need to provide a greater level of cost effectiveness and operational efficiency.”

Kolkata at number five and Chandigarh at number nine were the other two Indian locations on the list, which contained three Chinese and two Vietnamese cities as well.

The three hot cities for outsourcing from China were Shanghai at number eight, Beijing at 10 and Shenzhen at 13. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi were put at number six and number 12.

The Sri Lankan capital of Colombo placed seventh, Cairo at 11, Buenos Aires at 14 and Sao Paulo at 15, the study’s sponsors said in a statement released in Bangalore yesterday.

The list is based on criteria such as scale and quality of workforce, financial infrastructure, risk environment and quality of life.

But it does not include established outsourcing locations such as Bangalore, the New Delhi capital region, Manila, Mumbai and Dublin that have had a decade’s headstart.

India’s outsourcing companies have thrived by winning work from companies in the United States and Europe that sought to tap the country’s low costs and large employee pool by handing over jobs ranging from answering customers’ calls to risk management and financial analysis.

Pure-play outsourcing firms account for about 10 percent of the $50 billion in revenue logged in the year ended March by the entire information technology industry, which also includes software giants such as Tata Consultancy and Infosys.

Spread

Yu said that among Third World countries, the Philippines has an edge in that Filipinos speak better English, or that which is closest to the American twang, compared to Indians, who have an accent.

But, he said, the government should start giving the industry more attention in policy direction to keep that advantage.

“It would be better that the industry would not be concentrated in Cebu alone but in other provinces as well so that qualified workers do not congregate in Cebu. And this entails better government planning involving other local government units,” Yu said.

In particular, he said, other places should offer English, computer technology and other information technology-related courses for a better-qualified pool of workers.

“Pero ang bottomline sweldo gihapon,” he said, however, adding that Cebu has lower labor cost compared to the competition.

He said the industry would not wither in the next five to six years even though only those with good oral communication skills, the willingness to work night shifts, and the stomach to accept insults (from customers) are suited for the job.

Yu also revealed another problem just came into focus.

He said that while workers are especially educated for IT-related jobs, their training does not include managerial and people skills so that they struggle when promoted to higher positions.

“There is also the need for schools to offer IT curricula that teach students to be more versatile IT workers,” he said in Cebuano. (AFP/With RHM)

HERE (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/10/01/news/cebu.4th.globally.html)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

mas nauna na naman ang SKYSCRAPERCITY-CEBU kaysa sa ibang publications like SSC (SunStarCebu) :lol:

diehardbisdak

September 30th, 2007, 07:36 PM

BMW opens new showroom in Lahug
The Freeman
Monday, October 1, 2007

To provide better service and access to their valued clients, BMW recently opened its new showroom at Nivel Hills in Lahug.

BMW’s Paolo Borromeo said that with their new showroom, guests and clients would no longer go downtown as they mostly live in nearby subdivisions.

The establishment he said amounted to about P12 million to P15 million total investments.

“We figured out that this is a better location and easier for our customers to visit because it’s accessible and closer to their homes plus it’s overlooking the city,” he said.

In terms of market share, BMW comprises 55% of luxury vehicle in the Philippines and it is considered as the number one in luxury cars. As Borromeo pointed out, this number just goes to show that auto consumers trust their brand and so he said that they are out to improve their service.

“We are coming up with great returns and Cebu is a big market,” Borromeo underscores.

But like other dealers, BMW also expressed that they are affected with the high rate of smuggling in the province. He said that unfortunately, Cebu has been earning a notorious reputation for being the smuggling hub of the country becoming the reason for a number of small dealers closing down causing unemployment to rise. He said that the growth of smuggling in the province was driven by free market.

He discussed that Region 7’s record shows that there were only about 5,000 sold vehicles by legitimate car dealers but LTO has recorded 25, 000 new registration in Cebu alone which leaves out a big reason for the industry to be alarmed. Borromeo said that this has greatly hurt the sales of the local industry’s legitimate dealers like them as illegitimate dealers are even selling more vehicles.

Borromeo urges the local government unit to look into these cases in order to protect the image of the province. “Cebu is such a beautiful place to become a smuggling hub,” he said. – Rhia de Pablo

here (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=52&type=2&sec=71&aid=20070930198)

diehardbisdak

September 30th, 2007, 08:06 PM

JCIP’s 59th National Convention: One Island, One Vision, One People
The Freeman
By Nym Wales R. Juezan
Monday, October 1, 2007

JCI cordially invites all their members, and also Philippines’ young leaders and entrepreneurs to come and join them on their 59th national convention to be held at Cebu International Convention Center from October 11-14, 2007.

JC officers from all over Philippines gave the media information regarding the organization, the events that are going to happen during their national convention, and the advantages of being a JCI member.

The goal of members is not solely focused on leadership, they have also been trained to initiate programs for community welfare. Being a Jaycee also gives training on Parliamentary Procedures, on being an effective leader and a team follower. The organization gives a chance for members to chair committees and enables them to have corporate social responsibility. “Walk the Talk” or putting words into action – that’s the JC motto. JCI also focuses on promulgating membership growth and potential by being more process-oriented rather than result oriented. On behalf of the organization, Mr. Apollo “Cocoy” Enriquez–JCIP National Director invites young adults to join Jaycees.

JCIP is the only leadership organization in the world and they also make it clear that in the process of becoming a better leader, members are allowed to commit mistakes.

The first Junior Chamber International was organized in St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.A. on October 13, 1915. On December 11, 1944, representatives from eight (8) nations met in Mexico City and the world organization—Junior Chamber International — was founded. In 1944, the movement crossed the Pacific and the Manila Jaycees was founded with the approval of its Constitution on December 20, 1947. By 1948, eleven new chapters were organized in the following key cities: Cebu, San Pablo, Bacolod, Zamboanga , Davao, iloilo, Lucena, Cabanatuan, Capiz, Cavite and Tacloban.

Through 56 years non-stop operations, the Jaycees survive mainly through the spirit of VOLUNTEERISM. Elected National Officers commit to shoulder in part all their traveling expenses related to national projects and institutionalized programs. All programs and projects are conducted on self-liquidating basis. Resource mobilization for projects and programs then becomes the main area of training in local, as well as national and international operations.

In line with the JCIP’s objective, their National Convention will also be an opportunity for them to conduct seminars related to leadership and training development, entrepreneurship cultivation and franchising.

Other events of JCIP’s 59th National Convention include “Adven-turista sa Sugbu,” which has the same plot as Jerry Bruckheimer’s “The Amazing Race,” a national badminton tournament and a bowling tournament.

here (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Lifestyle&p=52&type=2&sec=74&aid=20070930175)

diehardbisdak

September 30th, 2007, 08:35 PM

... competition in the coffee shop industry is getting better!

S T A R B U C K S

Cebu's 6th located at the Crown Regency

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCStarbucks.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCStarbucks3.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCStarbucks2.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h282/MarkiiBoi3/SSCStarbucks1.jpg

animasola

October 1st, 2007, 03:12 AM

Sinjin P.

October 1st, 2007, 03:36 AM

ubay2x gyud na sila. remember that time when manila was threatened by moslem extremist groups about bombings? mayor tom asked for the support of the moslem community in cebu. their leaders promised to keep cebu safe from terrorist threats.

True. The Moslem leaders also assured the gov't of the same thing during our hosting of the 12th ASEAN Summit

rage@cebu

October 1st, 2007, 05:19 AM

Wow! Is this their first showroom in Cebu?

they already have @ downtown near cityhall, they decided to put a showroom in NIVEL because HONDA and Ford have already established themselves in the area...

SleMarKen

October 1st, 2007, 07:56 AM

^^

yeah BMW's showrrom is nice, immediately across Honda and Ford.

SleMarKen

October 1st, 2007, 08:01 AM

mustang RAMOS TOWER og ULTIMA RES?

-slerz-

MarkiiBoi

October 1st, 2007, 08:09 AM

Ultima Residences is still working on the substructure while Ramos Tower hasn't done any excavations yet.

ashton

October 1st, 2007, 09:18 AM

^ Has anyone read about the news regarding Philippine Dream? :)

Sinjin P.

October 1st, 2007, 12:02 PM

^ Not me. What's it all about? Good news? :colgate:

ashton

October 1st, 2007, 12:24 PM

^ It was kinda good. I read from inq7.net but lost it. I think they're gonna reopen the casino floating hotel. :)

Sinjin P.

October 1st, 2007, 12:39 PM

^ I see.

City || Rover

*Sorry for the low quality pics. It was taken while I was just riding a speeding car. Cheers

Petron NRA Branch (Northbound)
*comment: Absolutely wrong location!

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/5826/pa010001vj4.jpg

Due to the southwestern monsoon, here's what happened to CDU's cladding
*comment: Same happened to the other side of the building.

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/7750/pa010004pb6.jpg

Cars at the CDU vicinity
*comment: And you're seeing the Cebu Boardwalk Mall at the background.

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/1655/pa010005zm1.jpg

SM City Cebu Northwing sporting the new logo
*comment: I like the predecessor better.

http://img106.imageshack.us/img106/2781/pa010006ai9.jpg

Cebu City's Red Intersections:

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/1581/pa010007bn9.jpg

http://img510.imageshack.us/img510/9761/pa010008hm9.jpg

Pathetic update for "The Gallery"

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/1703/pa010009ry2.jpg

diehardbisdak

October 1st, 2007, 12:49 PM

Wow! Is this their first showroom in Cebu?

...i don't think so it's their 1st

BMW opens new showroom in Lahug
The Freeman
Monday, October 1, 2007

To provide better service and access to their valued clients, BMW recently opened its new showroom at Nivel Hills in Lahug.

BMW’s Paolo Borromeo said that with their new showroom, guests and clients would no longer go downtown as they mostly live in nearby subdivisions.

Sinjin P.

October 1st, 2007, 12:51 PM

^ Yep, as rage said, they have one near the Cebu City Hall

they already have @ downtown near cityhall, they decided to put a showroom in NIVEL because HONDA and Ford have already established themselves in the area...

habagatcentral1

October 1st, 2007, 12:53 PM

^ I see.

City || Rover

Cars at the CDU vicinity
*comment: And you're seeing the Cebu Boardwalk Mall at the background.

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/1655/pa010005zm1.jpg

^^ And the supposed to be athletic oval on the north side of CDU Campus will be a parking lot instead. Thats according to rumors though. :D

diehardbisdak

October 1st, 2007, 01:02 PM

dive-cebu

October 1st, 2007, 01:05 PM

^^ got your point bai... the only way of knowing if it's the right location or not is, if the station would close down its operations there because of the stated reason... if not, then that might be a wrong observation...

LordCarnal

October 1st, 2007, 01:08 PM

^^

Regarding Phil. Dream Floating Hotel and Casino,

The winning bidder will bring the ship to another country daw.. :(

Sinjin P.

October 1st, 2007, 01:09 PM

^^ bai @sinj, what made you think that Petron Station is on a wrong location? ...NRA is flourishing with new businesses...so vehicles will soon be concentrated in that area... i assumed the franchisee/owner had made some studies on vehicular flows in that area or made a reasonable forecast before they invest their money...

Okay lets draw it in words. The first gasoline station to establish in the north bound area of the NRA is Caltex. Then some months earlier, Shell established their own station few meters before Caltex. So that's fine. But with Petron, they established their own station 400-600 meters ahead of the Caltex station and, there isn't any entry point to NRA at that area so all the vehicles that will pass by the new Petron station might have filled up their cars with gas at Caltex or Shell. It would have been better if Petron established their station at the southbound lane of the NRA. Just my 2 cents though.

EDIT: The station is open for some weeks now and basing on my photo:

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/5826/pa010001vj4.jpg

While if you compare it with Caltex and Shell, there aren't vehicles lining up at any time of day in this new Petron station

dabert

October 1st, 2007, 01:17 PM

^^ that photo might have been taken coincidentally when no cars were lining up for gas. everytime i pass by that area, i see that it's usually lined up with 2 or 3 cars. even jollibee mandaue recla branch, with a very unusual location, is frequently filled with fastfood lovers. :)

diehardbisdak

October 1st, 2007, 01:23 PM

..i believe in marketing that there is such thing as "you like apples but i like oranges" ...we can't deny, Petron has also its own patrons...

Okay lets draw it in words. The first gasoline station to establish in the north bound area of the NRA is Caltex. Then some months earlier, Shell established their own station few meters before Caltex. So that's fine. But with Petron, they established their own station 400-600 meters ahead of the Caltex station and, there isn't any entry point to NRA at that area so all the vehicles that will pass by the new Petron station might have filled up their cars with gas at Caltex or Shell. It would have been better if Petron established their station at the southbound lane of the NRA. Just my 2 cents though.

EDIT: The station is open for some weeks now and basing on my photo:

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/5826/pa010001vj4.jpg

While if you compare it with Caltex and Shell, there aren't vehicles lining up at any time of day in this new Petron station

Ex!lE

October 1st, 2007, 01:29 PM

I've heared that among the big 3 oil companies, Petron is the no.1 in terms of sales. Is this true?

PINOYmeat

October 1st, 2007, 01:30 PM

^^ at ang pagkaka alam ko, government vehicles get their fuels mostly at petron stations...

Sinjin P.

October 1st, 2007, 01:31 PM

..i believe in marketing that there is such thing as "you like apples but i like oranges" ...we can't deny, Petron has also its own patrons...

Well I must admit that I am a Petron fan. As much as I can, I always suggest to my parents to refill at Petron. That great love for Petron caused my equally great disappointment on their new establishment.

^^ that photo might have been taken coincidentally when no cars were lining up for gas. everytime i pass by that area, i see that it's usually lined up with 2 or 3 cars. even jollibee mandaue recla branch, with a very unusual location, is frequently filled with fastfood lovers. :)

Maybe so but the photo was taken at 5:24 pm, usually the peak for traffic conditions in the area. But I can't understand why you'd think that Jollibee is at a very unusual location. I'd say its at a perfect location since it is being sandwiched by 2 gas stations and it is the only fastfood outlet in the area. Assuming that drivers expect to encounter heavy traffic ahead, then they'd feast on the Jollibee meals first :lol: Its drive through facility adds even more convenience.

Anyway, here's the Google shot of the location of Petron compared to that of Shell and Caltex

http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/9682/petronal6.jpg

Assuming that all vehicles planning to refuel have already done so at either Caltex or Shell, some chances for Petron to have customers are the ff:

1. Vehicles to U-Turn at the Ouano Avenue Intersection
2. Vehicles to enter NRA (through Ouano Avenue) from the Cebu North Road
3. Vehicles from the CDU - CBM area
4. Spillover from Caltex and Shell :lol:

Anyway, lets not make this a big deal. I also believe that before establishing a business, a thorough study should be done in order to assure the success of the business. Its just me who thinks that Petron stands on a poor location ;)

PINOYmeat

October 1st, 2007, 01:34 PM

yesterday...

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01882-1.jpg

Ex!lE

October 1st, 2007, 01:34 PM

^^ at ang pagkaka alam ko, government vehicles get their fuels mostly at petron stations...

may share kasi ang national gov't sa petron, ewan lang kung hindi pa naibenta sa ibang investors.

PINOYmeat

October 1st, 2007, 01:38 PM

PINOYmeat

October 1st, 2007, 01:40 PM

From scratch to success: The Golden ABC story

FROM simple graphic design tees to a multi-brand empire that is the toast of the Filipino fashion retail industry, Golden ABC is barely unrecognizable from the company it was when it began in 1986.

Then an architecture student in Cebu, Bernie Liu started out with a simple wish to earn extra cash for his own pocket money. He thought building beautiful structures was the way to do it; today, as chief executive officer of Golden ABC, he has succeeded in building a fashion house that has become one of the country’s most formidable retail empires.

Liu’s enterprising spirit is one of the core values that drive the company. “Entrepreneurship is a mindset; it is a value that pushes one’s passion into something more than just a fire in your heart,” he shares. Liu’s inspiring words speak volumes of his entrepreneurial journey – a journey that has reaped recognition from the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship’s Go Negosyo, which recently heralded Liu as one of Cebu’s Ten Most Inspiring Entrepreneurs.

With over 20 years of retail success, Liu has seen Golden ABC, through its fair share of challenges to achieve breakthrough results. Penshoppe, Golden ABC’s flagship brand, was established amidst the political and economical turmoil of the 1986 EDSA Revolution.

The brand remained unfazed, expanding its operations and creating benchmarks in the industry by leveraging the latest innovations in retail technology.

With the steady growth of the flagship brand, Golden ABC was ready to make waves with a second brand. Oxygen was created in 1996, and 10 years later, it was awarded by the Philippine Retailers’ Association as Outstanding Filipino Retailer of the Year.

In 2002, Memo was created to respond to market demand for casual office wear. In just two years, it was cited as Most Promising Retailer of the Year by the Philippine Retailers’ Association. And just a few years back, Golden ABC successfully launched a fourth brand, ForMe, targeted specifically to women.

HERE (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/10/01/life/from.scratch.to.success.the.golden.abc.story.html)

Sinjin P.

October 1st, 2007, 01:40 PM

got this article in today's hardcopy of sunstar cebu, unfortunately, the article is not available online...

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01885.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x102/pinakamaldito/DSC01893.jpg

quick solution, heh! :lol:

its only more than a year old but already reaping awards

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu cited as "Hotel of the Year" (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/10/01/life/marco.polo.plaza.cebu.cited.as.hotel.of.the.year..html)

THE Marco Polo Plaza Cebu won the prestigious “Hotel of the Year” Award for 2006 –2007 from the Marco Polo Hotel Group.

Despite only being over a year old in operation, the eighth addition to the internationally-renowned hotel group received the highest scores in the hotel chain for business growth, creativity, quality of food and service, employee satisfaction, and guest satisfaction.

It was presented at the Marco Polo Hotel Group’s Marketing Conference recently held in Hong Kong.

The hotel also won the award for “Most Creative Hotel” for its innovative image enhancement efforts and food promotion.

The Marco Polo Hotels has a portfolio of 10 properties in Asia, exceptionally well located, convenient to the major landmarks and key attractions of Hong Kong, Beijing, Shenzhen and Xiamen in China, as well as Ho Chi Min in bustling Vietnam and the idyllic seaside cities of Cebu and Davao in the Philippines.

Each Marco Polo hotel is as distinctive and unique as the destination in which it resides, and continues to grow to be one of the leading hotel brands in the region. The chain is part of the Global Hotel Alliance group.

PINOYmeat

October 1st, 2007, 01:43 PM

^^^ :lol: meron palang online... sensya na...

Sinjin P.

October 1st, 2007, 01:47 PM

^ That's okay. Sometimes our local news papers update their online versions later than usual. (Especially Cebu Daily News :lol: )

diehardbisdak

October 1st, 2007, 01:50 PM

OT: ...share ko lang....my trip back to Riyadh via DOHA, QATAR

...my ride from Cebu to Doha Airport direct by Qatar Airways...the 2nd plane!
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1416/1463065748_aa29215848_o.jpg

...sana, magkakaron tayo ng ganito na terminal sa Cebu!
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1334/1463065738_db58bfbd79_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1027/1463094568_9ecc685e4c_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1167/1463094564_565495c901_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1103/1463065744_d5db6dfba5_o.jpg

FYI: Doha Airport has no tube at their terminal... all passengers embark/disembark at the plane's parking area... passengers are fetched by huge airport buses to and from the plane and the main terminal building....

diehardbisdak

October 1st, 2007, 03:16 PM

...Philippine's mightiest fast food chain!

NRA - Mandaue City branch
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1028/1462520349_06771d14b4_o.jpg

flesh_is_weak

October 1st, 2007, 04:57 PM

^^ And the supposed to be athletic oval on the north side of CDU Campus will be a parking lot instead. Thats according to rumors though. :D

well, at least you could be thankful that you wont 'turn into'--and smell like--dried fish after running around the vicinity of NRA :D

btw, depressing lagi tan-awon ang color sa Crown Regency...

diehardbisdak

October 1st, 2007, 10:59 PM

Cebu may edge out India in BPO: expert
Sun-Star Online
Tuesday, October 02, 2007

THERE is no way but up for Cebu, which may eventually displace India as the primary destination of global companies in terms of outsourcing, industry experts said.

This is the reason Cebu needs to be improve its competitiveness in information and communication technology (ICT).

“We will displace India and other countries in the world,” Julius Rumarate of Interface Computer College confidently said in a press conference yesterday at the Parklane Hotel.

He was referring to Cebu’s global ranking as one of the 15 emerging outsourcing destinations for global companies, according to an industry report. Cebu ranked fourth while three Indian cities topped the list.

This is good for Cebu, Mayor Tomas Osmeña said, but he warned that the lack of qualified BPO workers could hurt Cebu’s chances of performing better.

Osmeña said yesterday that the private sector and the City Government should continue to work together to improve the quality of the employees of business process outsourcing (BPO), an industry that is growing in Cebu at a phenomenal rate.

The mayor will go ahead with his plan to donate a two-hectare lot at the SRP to the University of the Philippines (UP) for a graduate studies facility for BPO workers.

Osmeña believes subsidized graduate studies and other features of the SRP will encourage more qualified Cebuanos to work in BPO companies.

“It’s nice to know what they think of us, that we rank very high. It will be good for Cebu and will attract more investors in the BPO industry because this shows we are getting the spotlight,” he said.

But to fare better in the ranking, the local government and the private sector have to work on two things: the demand for building space the quality of workers.

Osmeña projects the demand to reach 80 hectares by 2010. At present, Cebu does not have enough space for the industry and is only serving 15 call centers, research and development firms and other BPO companies.

Once fully occupied, the South Road Properties (SRP) will have space for BPO companies.

“We’re trying to put up a system that will make it more viable for them. The demand for outsourcing in the Philippines by 2010 will be 800,000 square meters of building space and that is beyond what private developers can provide,” he said.

Focus

“The focus should not only be on the people who want to build call centers, but how we encourage qualified people to apply for call center jobs because that’s where the problem is. Right now, only approximately two to three percent of those who applied are qualified,” the mayor continued.

Interface will organize an ICT Congress at the Cebu International Convention Center on Thursday, with the theme, “Bridging the Gap: Industry and the Academe.”

The gap being referred to is on the knowledge of ICT students as opposed to the needed skills among ICT companies.

Rumarate was not alone in his observation on Cebu’s ICT capability. Microsoft representative George Parilla said, “The gap is not so big anymore.”

“Being number four, that says a lot for Cebu and there is no other way but up,” Parilla said.

The two leading BPO industries in Cebu are call centers and medical transcription firms. Convergys Corp., a call center, also assured that Cebu will be able to sustain its standing or even surpass India, which is facing a rising cost of labor due to an appreciating the rupee.

“What happened in India will not happen to us. I don’t think the call center industry will move to another country because the talents here are what other countries want,” said Marjorie Villacarlos of Convergys.

Villacarlos said that since Convergys came in 2001, it has been growing and is even thinking of extending to Bacolod next year.

But she noted that the problem of the ICT gap between the academe and the industries.

“There is that problem of well-rounded ability. Most of those who are good in ICT do not have very good interactive skills and vice versa,” Villacarlos said.

This is where the Commission on Higher Education (Ched) and Department of Education (DepEd) come in.

Ched 7’s Dr. Jojo Ron-quillo said there are problems on expertise of the faculty to teach ICT and in the curricula offered in schools. The agency has offere faculty scholarships and added curriculum on advanced English and more ICT subjects.

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority 7 is also offering courses on ICT and English proficiency fitted for call center needs.

The ICT Congress aims to further cut the gap between the schools and the companies. (JGA/LCR)

here (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/10/02/news/cebu.may.edge.out.india.in.bpo.experts.html)

diehardbisdak

October 1st, 2007, 11:28 PM

Cebu firm supplies software needs in Japan
Cebu Daily News
Last updated 05:14pm (Mla time) 10/01/2007

Cebu City, Philippines - A Cebu-based software development company has penetrated the offshore market in Japan after five years of operation.

The Alliance Outsourcing and Software Development Inc. is developing application services for Japan based companies, said Sherwin D. Yu, Alliance technical director.

The Alliance Outsourcing and Software Development Inc. is a partner of IBM Philippines Inc.

The company has focused on maintaining the quality of its software products, Yu pointed out.

He said that Alliance was able to penetrate Japan after it has partnered with a Tokyo-based company last year.

The Alliance Outsourcing and Software Development Inc. was founded on April 1, 2000.

After two years, the company opened an office in Manila, mainly to focus on marketing of its products and services.

Alliance has a capitalization of $1 million.

In the Philippines, it has 170 people and 150 of them are engineers, developers and the rest are administration staffs.

Alliance is an ISO certified and CMM level 2 since last year and is targeting to improve at level 5 on 2011.

Yu admitted that the studies on global, regional and local demands made by IBM have helped Alliance a lot in penetrating the offshore market.

“We have talked with IBM in coming up with our local business solutions that fit for the local market,” he said.

Yu also expressed concern over the development and the service delivery capability of most small and medium businesses.

To address the problem, Alliance has set up a dedicated technical support team that provides solutions to the customers, he said in an interview.

Its packages of solutions available are the point of sales, enterprise resource planning and the customized software.

As far as its point of sales package is concerned, it has around 500 installations nationwide, ranging from boutiques, grocery system, food and beverage system, pharmacy system and enterprise resource planning package related to human resource, distribution and accounting system.

In his presentation during the IBM launching of its express advantage offerings, Yu did not anymore elaborate about its Japan operation. /Correspondent Jun P. Tagalog

here (http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/enterprise/view_article.php?article_id=91830)