Monday, June 29, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
Cebu dancing inmates to perform 'Thriller' tribute for Jackson
MANILA, Philippines - On Saturday afternoon, more than 1,400 orange-clad Cebu inmates who gained worldwide attention for their rollicking “Thriller" performance on YouTube will pay their last respects to the late King of Pop.
“Everyone’s sad," Byron Garcia, provincial security consultant of the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC), told GMANews.TV in a phone interview.
“Malaki talaga si Michael Jackson sa programa namin. [Michael Jackson really played a big part in our program]," Garcia said.
Ever since the "dancing inmates" were reported by international news organizations, Garcia said inquisitive tourists have been drawn to the CPDRC. The image of Philippine convicts has never been the same since.
“Kung ‘di dahil sa kantang ‘Thriller’ ‘di magkakaroon ng global recognition ang mga inmates ng Cebu [If it weren’t for ‘Thriller’ the Cebu inmates wouldn’t have global recognition]."
If it weren’t for ‘Thriller’ the Cebu inmates wouldn’t have global recognition
– Byron Garcia, CPDRC
The CPDRC inmates perform every last Saturday of the month to almost 600 visitors for free. On June 27, they will stage a repeat of the Thriller dance routine that made them famous as a tribute to Jackson, who died of a heart attack Thursday in Los Angeles.
The moonwalking pop star drove the growth of music videos, vaulting cable channel MTV into the mainstream after the network’s launch in 1981. His 1982 hit "Thriller" spawned a John Landis-directed music video that MTV played every hour.
Fast-forward 25 years later and Garcia, who noticed that the inmates were bored with the usual morning exercise, sought the help of choreographer Vince Rosales and adapted Jackson’s iconic moves into a four-minute routine.
Crisanto “Dodong" Niere, the Cebu inmate who impersonates Jackson in the routine, said he was saddened by his idol’s sudden death.
"He is sad his idol died," an official from the CPDRC who spoke with Dodong told GMANews.TV. [See: Cebu inmate impersonator sad over Jackson’s death]
The video has since generated more than 23 million views after it was posted in 2007 and has even been hailed by TIME Magazine as one of the best viral videos of that year.
Garcia said the inmates’ popularity might gain another momentum as shocked fans continue to look online for anything that would remind them of Jackson.
The YouTube video that made Cebu inmates a household name has become a virtual epitaph for Jackson, where fans post their condolences. But Jackson’s fans logging on to watch the dancing inmates appeared overwhelmed with joy, at least for a while, after watching the 4-minute video.
“Stunning," Vidya said before posting “R.I.P to the King."
Source: GMA News
Read more!
“Everyone’s sad," Byron Garcia, provincial security consultant of the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC), told GMANews.TV in a phone interview.
“Malaki talaga si Michael Jackson sa programa namin. [Michael Jackson really played a big part in our program]," Garcia said.
Ever since the "dancing inmates" were reported by international news organizations, Garcia said inquisitive tourists have been drawn to the CPDRC. The image of Philippine convicts has never been the same since.
“Kung ‘di dahil sa kantang ‘Thriller’ ‘di magkakaroon ng global recognition ang mga inmates ng Cebu [If it weren’t for ‘Thriller’ the Cebu inmates wouldn’t have global recognition]."
If it weren’t for ‘Thriller’ the Cebu inmates wouldn’t have global recognition
– Byron Garcia, CPDRC
The CPDRC inmates perform every last Saturday of the month to almost 600 visitors for free. On June 27, they will stage a repeat of the Thriller dance routine that made them famous as a tribute to Jackson, who died of a heart attack Thursday in Los Angeles.
The moonwalking pop star drove the growth of music videos, vaulting cable channel MTV into the mainstream after the network’s launch in 1981. His 1982 hit "Thriller" spawned a John Landis-directed music video that MTV played every hour.
Fast-forward 25 years later and Garcia, who noticed that the inmates were bored with the usual morning exercise, sought the help of choreographer Vince Rosales and adapted Jackson’s iconic moves into a four-minute routine.
Crisanto “Dodong" Niere, the Cebu inmate who impersonates Jackson in the routine, said he was saddened by his idol’s sudden death.
"He is sad his idol died," an official from the CPDRC who spoke with Dodong told GMANews.TV. [See: Cebu inmate impersonator sad over Jackson’s death]
The video has since generated more than 23 million views after it was posted in 2007 and has even been hailed by TIME Magazine as one of the best viral videos of that year.
Garcia said the inmates’ popularity might gain another momentum as shocked fans continue to look online for anything that would remind them of Jackson.
The YouTube video that made Cebu inmates a household name has become a virtual epitaph for Jackson, where fans post their condolences. But Jackson’s fans logging on to watch the dancing inmates appeared overwhelmed with joy, at least for a while, after watching the 4-minute video.
“Stunning," Vidya said before posting “R.I.P to the King."
Source: GMA News
Read more!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Cebu Pacific launches one way ‘Go Lite’ fare for its Cebu hub services
Value-airline Cebu Pacific (CEB) is offering a PHP286 one way ‘Go Lite’ fare for its Cebu hub flights to boost local tourism and trade amid the present economic slowdown.
The seat sale include flights from Manila to Cebu and Cebu to Bacolod, Boracay (Caticlan), Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Davao, Dipolog, Dumagete, Iloilo, Roxas, Siargao, and Zamboanga.
The promotional sale is for travel from 15-Jul-2009 to 31-Aug-2009. Sale is from 24-Jun to 26-Jun.
‘Go Lite’ fares are for passengers traveling with no check-in baggage. Passengers with check-in bags have to add P200 to the fare.
CEB vice president for marketing and distribution Candice Iyog said, “Our seat sale supports the government’s efforts to stimulate economic activity by promoting tourism which in turn supports the various local industries that depend on tourism growth. Cebu Pacific’s trademark low fares will allow both foreign and local tourists access to the many destinations our country has to offer.”
Source: Peanuts.aero
Read more!
The seat sale include flights from Manila to Cebu and Cebu to Bacolod, Boracay (Caticlan), Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Davao, Dipolog, Dumagete, Iloilo, Roxas, Siargao, and Zamboanga.
The promotional sale is for travel from 15-Jul-2009 to 31-Aug-2009. Sale is from 24-Jun to 26-Jun.
‘Go Lite’ fares are for passengers traveling with no check-in baggage. Passengers with check-in bags have to add P200 to the fare.
CEB vice president for marketing and distribution Candice Iyog said, “Our seat sale supports the government’s efforts to stimulate economic activity by promoting tourism which in turn supports the various local industries that depend on tourism growth. Cebu Pacific’s trademark low fares will allow both foreign and local tourists access to the many destinations our country has to offer.”
Source: Peanuts.aero
Read more!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Cebu tourism up 8.5% despite global crisis
Cebu posted an 8.51 percent growth in tourist arrivals despite the drop in key foreign markets at the onset of the global economic crisis last year, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said.
Tourism Undersecretary Phineas Alburo said Cebu drew close to 650,000 tourists out of the 3.13 million tourists that visited the country last year.
He said most of them were traditional visitors like Koreans, Japanese and Americans.
European tourists topped the country's arrivals with Russian tourists comprising 34 percent of the market followed by France with 19 percent and Great Britian with 10 percent.
“DOT’s efforts to diversify and offer new tourist products like adventure, diving and bird watching provided the impetus to stimulate increase in awareness of the country’s tourism potentials,” Alburo told local media at last week's Tourism Congress.
However, Alburo said the global crisis caused a significant drop in foreign tourist arrivals with Korean tourists declining by four percent and Japanese tourists by seven percent.
The number of Chinese tourists likewise dropped at 4.5 percent.
“Either people were losing jobs or people were not sure about their disposable income. In times like this, people tend to travel less far, less long and less expensive. They are staying in their home countries as domestic tourists,” he said.
Alburo said the DOT has shifted marketing efforts towards attracting more domestic tourists through events like the Philippine International Travel Fair (PITF) on June 25 to 27 at the Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.
The PITF is expected to gather 100 buyers worldwide to meet Philippine sellers of tourism packages, products and services.
Another event, the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) Mart on July 10 at Edsa Shangri-La Manila will set up foreign buyers with Philippine suppliers, Alburo said.
“Cautious but optimistic is the attitude of tourism players who believe that people will always travel for pleasure. The key word now is value in terms of what you get, for what you pay and your experience,” said Alburo.
While the H1N1 virus scare will affect tourism performance this year, Alburo said it is important that government is shown doing its best to contain the outbreak.
“What we are after now is image. Wearing masks affect the images because people will immediately react that the disease is not contained. This perception may lead to cancellation (of bookings and other travel plans),” he said.
Source: Cris Evert Lato Cebu Daily News
Read more!
Tourism Undersecretary Phineas Alburo said Cebu drew close to 650,000 tourists out of the 3.13 million tourists that visited the country last year.
He said most of them were traditional visitors like Koreans, Japanese and Americans.
European tourists topped the country's arrivals with Russian tourists comprising 34 percent of the market followed by France with 19 percent and Great Britian with 10 percent.
“DOT’s efforts to diversify and offer new tourist products like adventure, diving and bird watching provided the impetus to stimulate increase in awareness of the country’s tourism potentials,” Alburo told local media at last week's Tourism Congress.
However, Alburo said the global crisis caused a significant drop in foreign tourist arrivals with Korean tourists declining by four percent and Japanese tourists by seven percent.
The number of Chinese tourists likewise dropped at 4.5 percent.
“Either people were losing jobs or people were not sure about their disposable income. In times like this, people tend to travel less far, less long and less expensive. They are staying in their home countries as domestic tourists,” he said.
Alburo said the DOT has shifted marketing efforts towards attracting more domestic tourists through events like the Philippine International Travel Fair (PITF) on June 25 to 27 at the Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.
The PITF is expected to gather 100 buyers worldwide to meet Philippine sellers of tourism packages, products and services.
Another event, the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) Mart on July 10 at Edsa Shangri-La Manila will set up foreign buyers with Philippine suppliers, Alburo said.
“Cautious but optimistic is the attitude of tourism players who believe that people will always travel for pleasure. The key word now is value in terms of what you get, for what you pay and your experience,” said Alburo.
While the H1N1 virus scare will affect tourism performance this year, Alburo said it is important that government is shown doing its best to contain the outbreak.
“What we are after now is image. Wearing masks affect the images because people will immediately react that the disease is not contained. This perception may lead to cancellation (of bookings and other travel plans),” he said.
Source: Cris Evert Lato Cebu Daily News
Read more!
Flourishing Real Estate Investment Opportunity in Cebu
Escalating number of tourists in Cebu paved way for an increase in foreign investment that flourished the real estate industry in the city.
Cebu has been considered as one historic city over the decades. The place holds the first traces of Christianity brought by the Spaniards and served as the capital for the early commercial trade. The rich natural resources that includes pristine forests and stunning white sand beaches has been effective in attracting tourists and potential investors making Philippine investment property prosper in the place.
Modern facilities have replaced the old and dilapidated buildings that quickly created an image of a convenient modern city. Foreign investment has driven the economy’s success paving way for real estate opportunities. Specialists from DSR Asset Management Ltd have been assisting investors as to what potential properties yield high returns on investment.
Property investment in Cebu such as the City Loft and Ramos Tower has brought the modern and luxurious dwelling style in order to address the increasing demands for quality condo hotel properties. Foreign ownership of condominium units and houses are permitted but the land remains leased for up to 50 years and must be renewed for another 25 years.
Buying a condominium unit can become a turnkey investment as well as hassle free and simple once an overseas property specialist is consulted. Aside from enjoying the modern facilities, proximity to schools and other establishments can also be benefited. Owning a property has never been this convenient.
Source: PR Log
Read more!
Cebu has been considered as one historic city over the decades. The place holds the first traces of Christianity brought by the Spaniards and served as the capital for the early commercial trade. The rich natural resources that includes pristine forests and stunning white sand beaches has been effective in attracting tourists and potential investors making Philippine investment property prosper in the place.
Modern facilities have replaced the old and dilapidated buildings that quickly created an image of a convenient modern city. Foreign investment has driven the economy’s success paving way for real estate opportunities. Specialists from DSR Asset Management Ltd have been assisting investors as to what potential properties yield high returns on investment.
Property investment in Cebu such as the City Loft and Ramos Tower has brought the modern and luxurious dwelling style in order to address the increasing demands for quality condo hotel properties. Foreign ownership of condominium units and houses are permitted but the land remains leased for up to 50 years and must be renewed for another 25 years.
Buying a condominium unit can become a turnkey investment as well as hassle free and simple once an overseas property specialist is consulted. Aside from enjoying the modern facilities, proximity to schools and other establishments can also be benefited. Owning a property has never been this convenient.
Source: PR Log
Read more!
Cebu mayors vow to close all open dumps in 30 days
CEBU CITY — Expect the shutdown of all existing open trash dumps in the province within the next 30 days as the provincial government and 47 municipal mayors have committed to hasten efforts to comply with Republic Act 9003, the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.
In lieu of the open dumps, the provincial government and the mayors agreed to jointly work for the establishment of a materials recovery facility (MRF) in every barangay as an initial measure of compliance.
Assistant Secretary Gerardo Calderon of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources cited Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia and all the 47 town mayors for their commitment and support to the Zero Basura Caravan, which enjoins provinces, cities and municipalities to actively take part in the national government’s campaign to close all existing open dumps.
Local officials here also agreed to adopt measures for proper and safe closure as prescribed by the DENR and the National Solid Waste Management Commission of which Calderon is the executive director.
The Zero Basura Caravan is a joint nationwide project of the DENR, the NSWMC and the League of Municipalities of the Philippines.
In a statement, LMP national president Ramon Guico Jr. said the caravan has covered more than half its target.
“We have in fact already covered all regions in Luzon and almost done with the Visayas,” he said.
Looking at the critical role of the local government units in the garbage problem, proper waste management implementation and the climate change dilemma, the DENR, the Department of Health and the LMP are drawing together local chief executives from all over the country to comply with RA 9003 through a program dubbed as the “Interconnectivity Caravan: Strengthening and Empowering LMP Provincial Chapters”.
Highlighting the Zero Basura Caravan in LMP gatherings emphasize the significance and timeliness of the solid waste management campaign with the strategy on the 3-strike policy and the Zero Basura Program.
The caravan is also seen as a venue in strengthening the LGU-DENR partnership in sustaining the gains and addressing the challenges of the local government on solid waste management.
Source: Manila Bulletin
Read more!
In lieu of the open dumps, the provincial government and the mayors agreed to jointly work for the establishment of a materials recovery facility (MRF) in every barangay as an initial measure of compliance.
Assistant Secretary Gerardo Calderon of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources cited Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia and all the 47 town mayors for their commitment and support to the Zero Basura Caravan, which enjoins provinces, cities and municipalities to actively take part in the national government’s campaign to close all existing open dumps.
Local officials here also agreed to adopt measures for proper and safe closure as prescribed by the DENR and the National Solid Waste Management Commission of which Calderon is the executive director.
The Zero Basura Caravan is a joint nationwide project of the DENR, the NSWMC and the League of Municipalities of the Philippines.
In a statement, LMP national president Ramon Guico Jr. said the caravan has covered more than half its target.
“We have in fact already covered all regions in Luzon and almost done with the Visayas,” he said.
Looking at the critical role of the local government units in the garbage problem, proper waste management implementation and the climate change dilemma, the DENR, the Department of Health and the LMP are drawing together local chief executives from all over the country to comply with RA 9003 through a program dubbed as the “Interconnectivity Caravan: Strengthening and Empowering LMP Provincial Chapters”.
Highlighting the Zero Basura Caravan in LMP gatherings emphasize the significance and timeliness of the solid waste management campaign with the strategy on the 3-strike policy and the Zero Basura Program.
The caravan is also seen as a venue in strengthening the LGU-DENR partnership in sustaining the gains and addressing the challenges of the local government on solid waste management.
Source: Manila Bulletin
Read more!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
PLDT SME Nation, Smart whip up Cebu Storm launch
Packaging entrepreneurial necessities with mobility, PLDT SME Nation and Smart Corporate Business group launched the BlackBerry Storm in Cebu recently to provide entrepreneurs mobile ICT solutions.
As the need to become more mobile arises, the BlackBerry Storm unit, which comes for free under the Smart Plan 3500, affords entrepreneurs the competitive edge of being productive even out of the office.
PLDT SME Nation Marketing Head Amil Azurin said amid an economic crisis, small and medium enterprises have always been optimistic and continue to “persevere” and are determined to see growth.
“SMEs are starting to invest in technology to support their expansion plans. They turn technology into profit which in turn reduces their cost and increase market reach and efficiency.”
The SME sector employs 70 per cent of the labor force and contributes 32 per cent to the country’s gross domestic product. “The business sector, especially the younger generation, are more wiling to incorporate technology in their business since they understand the cost-efficiency it can generate,” said PLDT SME Nation Vice President and head Kat Luna-Abelarde. Smart Corporate Business Group Marketing Head Chet Alviz attests that, the BlackBerry’s new model will help its users get connected anytime and anywhere, and will fit the needs of today’s entrepreneurs.
The BlackBerry Storm integrates PLDT SME Nation business solutions like the PLDT Watcher, where live video feed from the IP camera device can be directly viewed from the phone.
Aside from being a mobile email device, the BlackBerry Storm also packs in a global positioning system, multimedia functions, a 3.2-megapixel camera, and mobile streaming, to name a few. For more info on what PLDT SME Nation can offer your business, visit www.pldtsme-nation.com.ph.
Source: Manila Bulletin
Read more!
As the need to become more mobile arises, the BlackBerry Storm unit, which comes for free under the Smart Plan 3500, affords entrepreneurs the competitive edge of being productive even out of the office.
PLDT SME Nation Marketing Head Amil Azurin said amid an economic crisis, small and medium enterprises have always been optimistic and continue to “persevere” and are determined to see growth.
“SMEs are starting to invest in technology to support their expansion plans. They turn technology into profit which in turn reduces their cost and increase market reach and efficiency.”
The SME sector employs 70 per cent of the labor force and contributes 32 per cent to the country’s gross domestic product. “The business sector, especially the younger generation, are more wiling to incorporate technology in their business since they understand the cost-efficiency it can generate,” said PLDT SME Nation Vice President and head Kat Luna-Abelarde. Smart Corporate Business Group Marketing Head Chet Alviz attests that, the BlackBerry’s new model will help its users get connected anytime and anywhere, and will fit the needs of today’s entrepreneurs.
The BlackBerry Storm integrates PLDT SME Nation business solutions like the PLDT Watcher, where live video feed from the IP camera device can be directly viewed from the phone.
Aside from being a mobile email device, the BlackBerry Storm also packs in a global positioning system, multimedia functions, a 3.2-megapixel camera, and mobile streaming, to name a few. For more info on what PLDT SME Nation can offer your business, visit www.pldtsme-nation.com.ph.
Source: Manila Bulletin
Read more!
Cebu university suspends classes due to H1N1
3 students with flu, Visayas count at 21
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Three students from the University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue campus (UC-LM) were confirmed to have the Influenza A(H1N1) virus, forcing the suspension of classes there until June 28, according to regional advisories from the Department of Health (DoH).
This brought to 21 the total number of A(H1N1) patients in the Visayas – 12 in Central Visayas, six in Western Visayas, and three in Eastern Visayas, the DoH said.
The UC-LM also quarantined for 10 days 600 marine and nautical students who lived in the same dormitory with the three others who had the disease.
Another new case, a 20-year-old American from San Diego, California, tested positive for A(H1N1) after arrival in Bacolod City on June 9.
Bacolod City health officials are tracing the American patient’s contacts.
In Iloilo City, Mayor Jerry Treñas placed himself under a week-long quarantine to avoid the possibility of spreading the A(H1N1) virus, after arriving from the United States last Thursday.
Reached by phone at his house in Mandurriao District, Treñas said he was heeding the advice of the DoH to avoid crowds and refrain from being in close with other persons during the quarantine period.
Source: Phil. Daily Inquirer
Read more!
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Three students from the University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue campus (UC-LM) were confirmed to have the Influenza A(H1N1) virus, forcing the suspension of classes there until June 28, according to regional advisories from the Department of Health (DoH).
This brought to 21 the total number of A(H1N1) patients in the Visayas – 12 in Central Visayas, six in Western Visayas, and three in Eastern Visayas, the DoH said.
The UC-LM also quarantined for 10 days 600 marine and nautical students who lived in the same dormitory with the three others who had the disease.
Another new case, a 20-year-old American from San Diego, California, tested positive for A(H1N1) after arrival in Bacolod City on June 9.
Bacolod City health officials are tracing the American patient’s contacts.
In Iloilo City, Mayor Jerry Treñas placed himself under a week-long quarantine to avoid the possibility of spreading the A(H1N1) virus, after arriving from the United States last Thursday.
Reached by phone at his house in Mandurriao District, Treñas said he was heeding the advice of the DoH to avoid crowds and refrain from being in close with other persons during the quarantine period.
Source: Phil. Daily Inquirer
Read more!
Cebu energy project signs P16-B loan package
CEBU Energy Development Corp. (CEDC), the power arm of the Metrobank Group, said on Friday it completed the financing package for its P22-billion clean-coal power plant in Toledo, Cebu, in a bid to alleviate the power situation in the Visayas.
CEDC is a joint venture among Global Business Power Corp. of the Metrobank Group, Aboitiz Power Corp. Vivant Corp., and Formosa Heavy Industries (FHI) of Taiwan.
In a statement, CEDC said 11 banks and insurance companies pledged to lend CEDC P16 billion over 12 years in the deal arranged by investment bank First Metro Investment Corp. last week.
CEDC said the loan is already considered the largest peso-denominated project financing in the Philippines to date.
CEDC’s power project gives a much-needed shot in the arm to Trade Secretary Peter Favila’s economic-stimulus initiative that calls for the private sector to contribute P100 billion.
“The new power plant is also CEDC’s response to President Arroyo’s calls for the expansion of power-generation capacity, particularly in Cebu and the Visayas,” said Jesus Alcordo, CEDC president.
He added the plant will have a generating capacity of 246 megawatts.
CEDC claims that construction of the plant is well on its way, and is some 50-percent complete into the first of three power-generation units.
The unit is scheduled to be energized by the first quarter of 2010, with full commercial operation of the plant expected in the third quarter of 2010—the time that the power situation in Cebu and the Visayas moves from critical to actual shortage.
The new coal plant will be using the latest in clean-coal technology and is being built by FHI of Taiwan. FHI itself has a portfolio of modern, efficient and clean coal-fired power plants in Taiwan, the United States, Indonesia and the Philippines.
The clean-coal plant is envisioned to help solve the worsening power situation in the Visayas in general, and Cebu in particular. The Visayas and Cebu have been facing dwindling power reserves and insufficient peak capacity as early as 2008.
The plant is anticipated to supply the Balamban EnerZone, where Tsuneishi’s shipbuilding plant is being expanded, requiring not only more power but also reliable and quality energy.
Carmen Copper, which is now fully operational in the old Atlas Mining site, will also be a major beneficiary and is projected to create a tremendous multiplier effect as an economic-stimulus project.
Source: Paul Anthony A. Isla Business Mirror
Read more!
CEDC is a joint venture among Global Business Power Corp. of the Metrobank Group, Aboitiz Power Corp. Vivant Corp., and Formosa Heavy Industries (FHI) of Taiwan.
In a statement, CEDC said 11 banks and insurance companies pledged to lend CEDC P16 billion over 12 years in the deal arranged by investment bank First Metro Investment Corp. last week.
CEDC said the loan is already considered the largest peso-denominated project financing in the Philippines to date.
CEDC’s power project gives a much-needed shot in the arm to Trade Secretary Peter Favila’s economic-stimulus initiative that calls for the private sector to contribute P100 billion.
“The new power plant is also CEDC’s response to President Arroyo’s calls for the expansion of power-generation capacity, particularly in Cebu and the Visayas,” said Jesus Alcordo, CEDC president.
He added the plant will have a generating capacity of 246 megawatts.
CEDC claims that construction of the plant is well on its way, and is some 50-percent complete into the first of three power-generation units.
The unit is scheduled to be energized by the first quarter of 2010, with full commercial operation of the plant expected in the third quarter of 2010—the time that the power situation in Cebu and the Visayas moves from critical to actual shortage.
The new coal plant will be using the latest in clean-coal technology and is being built by FHI of Taiwan. FHI itself has a portfolio of modern, efficient and clean coal-fired power plants in Taiwan, the United States, Indonesia and the Philippines.
The clean-coal plant is envisioned to help solve the worsening power situation in the Visayas in general, and Cebu in particular. The Visayas and Cebu have been facing dwindling power reserves and insufficient peak capacity as early as 2008.
The plant is anticipated to supply the Balamban EnerZone, where Tsuneishi’s shipbuilding plant is being expanded, requiring not only more power but also reliable and quality energy.
Carmen Copper, which is now fully operational in the old Atlas Mining site, will also be a major beneficiary and is projected to create a tremendous multiplier effect as an economic-stimulus project.
Source: Paul Anthony A. Isla Business Mirror
Read more!
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Kapamilya and Kapuso in Cebu
Two prime media partners join the CCCI events in the spirit of tourism. On June 17, GMA-7 and SM sponsored the launching of People at the SM Cinema 1, with Kapuso artist, former StarStruck and Binibining Pilipinas 2009 finalist, Rich Asuncion, as guest celebrity.The prelude to the yearlong series of Success Stories (from July 2009-May 2010 hosted by 12 schools) featured successful entrepreneur Bunny Pages and performing artist Eva Santos (June 17); the June episode of People introduced a masahista/manicurista for 36 years, Estela Basata (June 17) and Joel Pulvera, resort owner from Camotes (June 19). Tomorrow, June 20, at the Ayala Center, the Cebu Business Month Musicfest will be hosted by ABS-CBN and Ayala, featuring a lot of Kapamilya celebrities headed by Anna Fegi. The event enhances Cebu as the Entertainment Hub. So, Kapamilya and Kapuso, be with us and enjoy the fun!
From food, sports to entertainment
The pre-CBM tourism survey revealed that the “explorable” areas for creative packages were food, sports/adventure, education, heritage/festivals and film/TV entertainment. Respondents believed that Cebu could enhance these areas to enrich domestic tourism.
Yesterday, the Tourism Congress focused on Cebu’s homegrown resources and people and invited local and national-based panelists and discussants to share their insights. Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia, the exponent of countryside tourism, gave the inspirational message. Tourism Undersecretary Phineas Alburo, DoT7 director Patria Aurora Roa and board member Agnes Magpale acted as panel and workshop resource persons.
Culinary guru Jessica Avila, Hotel Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu’s Marco Protacio as resource persons, with discussants Roy Abraham (Marriot) and Dr. Nestor Alonzo (Freeman) engaged in an interactive workshop in Food Tourism, moderated by Aissa de la Cruz.. They discerned how hotels, resorts, restaurants and small players could develop creative food tourism packages. Invited guest Jay Gamboa (executive chef for Cirkulo and Milky Way and director for education of Les Toques Blanches Philippines) shared his insights in international culinary tests where the Philippines won accolades during the morning panel discussion.
The Workshop on Sports/Adventure Tourism will see varied activities which invite a growing number of tourists. Marget Villarica (Destination Specialists) and Fr. Tito Soquino, OSA, provide the framework on their ecology-based projects in the morning session to prepare workshop resource persons Martin Naussbaumer (Sea Explorers), Paulo Garcia (Airsoft) and Glenn Soco; discussants Fr. Charlito Orobia, OAR, (Sea Knights-Stewards), Golly Talens (Hilton), Angelita Panaguiton (Plantation Bay), Jenny Franco (Travelvision) and Hember Mendoza (Waterfront Casino Mactan).
Meanwhile, educator Fr. Dionisio Miranda, SVD (USC), talks about some concerns about the sustainability of some tourism programs; resource persons Dr. Candelario Aytona and Dr. Tina Barba of Commission on Higher Education 7; and Rosanna Urdaneta, Tesda; with discussants Dean Edgar, Detoya, (University of San Jose Recoletos), Dr. Efren Valiente (Benedicto College), Dr. Alicia Cabatingan (University of Southern Philippines), Apolonio Dedamo (University of San Carlos) and Prof. Ernesto Golosino (Holy Name University-Bohol) discuss how to match skills of human resources with the needs of the industry.
Natural and Historical Landmarks/Festivals. Resource persons DoT 7 director Patria Aurora Roa; Magpale and Mayen Tan with discussants Alice Queblatin, Cecille Saa and Val Sandiego look into creative perks featuring landmarks and festivals with moderator Vince Escario. In the morning, Ivan Man Dy shares his experiences in the Old Manila Walk.
Film/TV/entertainment and performing arts. Discussants Roger Serna and Dr. Teodie Dumam-ag of Sun Star Entertainment and USJR Masscom respectively; Nathalie Tomada (Freeman) and Jose Gatino Nacario (Academe) engage in a lilting review of the local talents of Cebu, moderated by Jane Abella of ABS-CBN. In the morning, Matt Lubetich of Big Foot analyzes Cebu’s resources for film/entertainment. An added feature are the insights of Rosvi Gaetos to show how M.I.C.E. helps domestic tourism.
Drivers of tourism
Pioneers in tourism entrepreneurship and leadership; dynamic achievers in the travel industry; and success in the practice of the tourism profession, not to mention their support of the CCCI tourism events for more than a decade, will all take the center stage.
The Grand Kasangga sa Tourism tribute will be accorded to DoT 7 director Dawnie Roa and Magpale. The posthumous award goes to practitioner, the late Marilou Pintor, who, as Margaret Ang said, “worked hard to push the first Cebu-Hong Kong Cathay Pacific direct flight, when she was working in this airline!”
Special citations will be conferred on Tourism Department, CHED and Marisa Fernan as enduring partners of CCCI tourism events.
Source: Mila C. Espina Manila Standard
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Thursday, June 18, 2009
Lapu-Lapu Shrine
The Lapu-Lapu shrine is a 20-meter bronze statue in Punta Engaño, Mactan Island, Cebu, Philippines, erected in honor of Datu Lapu-Lapu, a native chieftain who defeated Spanish soldiers, and Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in the Battle of Mactan on 1521.
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Parkmall: Cebu's newest lifestyle destination
MANILA, Philippines - Parkmall, Cebu’s newest lifestyle destination, continues to attract discerning mallgoers, thanks to its ideal location, wide range of stores and facilities that set it apart from other malls.Conveniently located 15 minutes away from the Mactan International Airport and just a stones’ throw away from the port of Cebu, Parkmall encompasses a total lifestyle experience with the right blend of a lush, landscaped park and ample parking spaces that offer a convenient shopping experience.
It boasts of having Save More, Cebu’s most spacious and complete grocery store, and the Kids Village, one of Cebu’s biggest indoor playgrounds.
Only recently, a beach volleyball sand court was constructed, which cements Parkmall’s reputation as Cebu’s one-stop place for shopping, leisure and recreation.
The sand court makes quality beach volley action easily accessible to more people, while helping to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.
The newly opened Parkmall is no stranger to major events. Barely a year since it opened, Parkmall marketing manager Tony Tiu says Parkmall has already played host to some of Cebu’s hot-ticket events like the 13th Bob Marley Festival, OZR Motor Grand Prix Racing, Cebu Auto Cross Competition, First Cebu Airsoft Competition, the first Cebu Reggae Festival, and the Visayas leg of the Nestea Fit Beach Volley National Circuit ’09, the summer’s biggest event.
Indeed, the intense beach volleyball tournaments featuring Visayas’ best collegiate beach volley teams and the highly successful Nestea Fit Summer Street Party that featured creations by noted designer PJ Arañador and a party that showcased Driven Manila DJs David Ardiente and Miko Syquia complemented Parkmall’s thrust as the mall to see and be seen at in Cebu.
Source: Philstar
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Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Nalusuan Island Resort
Nalusuan Island has been a well-established destination on the local island circuit for years. The owners of the island have designated the area surrounding Nalusuan Island as a Marine Sanctuary for several years.The swimming area is well protected so it's excellent for kids.
Upon arrival on the island you pass by a large man-made salt water pool that contains a variety of local marine life, Sea Turtles, Lapu-Lapu (a local species of grouper) and other species can be observed.
Other Amenities include:
• Jet Ski rentals
• Snorkeling
• Swimming
• Bar/Restaurant
Source: Cebu Island Adventures
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BOC to enforce new system for Peza shipments in Cebu
THE Bureau of Customs will enforce a new procedure in the Cebu International Port and Mactan International Airport starting later this month on economic-zone shipments for the effective implementation of the Automated Cargo Transfer System.According to Customs Memorandum Order 24-2009, approved by BOC Commissioner Napoleon Morales last week, the new order will be enforced on Philippine Economic Zone Authority-registered locators and importers starting next week.
Under the new regulation, the BOC will no longer require Customs Peza Warehousing Entry, Transshipment Permit, Transit Cargo Manifest, Boatnote, Mission Order and Telegram in cargo declaration and transfer. The government would instead require the use of Import Entry Internal Revenue Declaration (IEIRD)-Transit for the particulars of the import shipments.
Ecozone enterprises, meanwhile, will have to lodge the IEIRD-Transits using the Single-Administrative Document through any of the BOC-accredited value-added service providers as the BOC will no longer accept entries lodged manually.
Only ecozone enterprises and customs brokers with active registration in the old automated customs operating system can lodge electronic transit declarations.
Ecozone enterprises are also required to post a one-time surety bond issued by a surety company accredited by the BOC, which will serve as guarantee of payment of taxes and duties.
The value of the bond should be equivalent to the average duties and taxes due on importations of the ecozone enterprise for a period of three days.
This is based on the total duties and taxes due on its actual importations during the three-month period immediately prior to its posting of the bond.
BOC may also require an ecozone locator to increase the value of the bond at the end of a semester, upon determination of a significant increase in the level of its actual importations in order to ensure that its surety bond provides adequate coverage of taxes and duties due on its current importations.
The locator is also required to pay BOC cargo transfer fees for the transit goods.
This will only be available through automatic debit from a pre-payment account that they have established in a bank branch designated by BOC’s Port of Mactan collector.
“For tax and duty-exempt import shipments arriving by sea at the Cebu International Port, the transit declaration should be electronically lodged with the Port of Mactan through the VASPs,” BOC said. It added that the processing will be the same as those cargoes shipped through air.
Source: VG Cabuag Business Mirror
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Malapascua Island - Diving Video
First Video Collection of Malapascua Island.
Malapascua Island is situated in Daanbantayan, Cebu.
Malapascua is a tiny island, only about 2.5 kilometers long and 1km wide, located across a shallow strait from the northernmost tip of mainland Cebu island. The island is covered by the insular barangay of Logon (part of the Daanbantayan municipality), with eight hamlets.
As a diving destination, Malapascua was "discovered" fairly recently, only in the early 90s. The island was first known for its wide white sand beach, known as Bounty Beach; it has become known for its beautiful coral gardens and excellent dive spots nearby, including Monad Shoal, an underwater plateau where thresher sharks and manta rays can be sighted on a regular basis. To date, this is the only place in the world where divers can reliably sight thresher sharks.
Most of the islanders derive their livelihood from tourism, while some still rely on sustenance fishing and farming.
Source: Wikipedia
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