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Cebu City News December 2016

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Aerial View of Metro Cebu

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

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Cebu City Cathedral
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Magellan's Cross in Cebu City
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Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.
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Mormon Temple Lahug cebu city philippines

Devotee City to cost City P1.3 million

By Razel V. Cuizon

AS part of the Sinulog 2017 preparations, the Cebu City Government earmarked some P1.3 million to set up the Devotee City.

The amount, which is charged to the City-sponsored activities, will be used to pay for the hauling of cargo containers and expenses for the food and other materials for volunteers in the facility.

Although the use of container vans is free, the City has to spend P540,000 for the hauling of the vans from the yard to the area where the Devotee City will be set up.

A total of 120 20-foot cargo containers will be put up at the Compaña Maritima compound across the Cebu City Hall for the Devotee City.

The facility will have electricity, a kitchen, free wi-fi, shower area, mess hall and a playground for children.

The organizers will prioritize devotees who come from towns and cities beyond Danao City in the north and Carcar City in the south, and those from other provinces.

Aside from the pilgrims, the City also allows street dwellers and vendors who sleep on the sidewalk near the Basilica del Sto. Nino and the parade route to stay at the facility.

Since 1995, the City has been providing temporary shelter to those who can’t afford to rent spaces in the city during the Sinulog.

Aside from the hauling fee, the City will also spend P299,900 for the food and water of the volunteers while another P200,000 will be spent for the cash incentives of City Hall personnel who will be asked to work beyond their regular working hours and during weekends.

Another P112,000 will be spent for the t-shirts of the volunteers while a total of P100,000 will be utilized to purchase additional construction materials.

Councilor Eugenio Gabuya Jr., who sponsored the resolution charging the amount to the City-sponsored activities, said Mayor Tomas Osmeña already approved the expenses.

Gabuya said that after the Sinulog Festival was judged as the Best Festival in the Philippines, the City is more keen on providing visitors an improved and decent billeting facility.

The Devotee City usually opens two days before the Sinulog Grand Parade, which is held every third Sunday of January.

Cebu vet office to conduct free rabies vaccination

By Vania Mae Lim (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries will conduct a free rabies vaccination for dogs around the barangays of Cebu City to prevent the growing case of rabies.

Cebu City Veterinarian Alice Utlang said the city has the most number of cases of rabies in dogs in Region 7.

About 50,000 doses of rabies vaccine worth P6 million were given by the Bureau of Animal Industry yesterday to the city, Utlang said.

She said barangays already have their schedules for the free vaccination that will start on January 2 until February 10.

Barangay officials will assign the area where the team would conduct the vaccination, use their service vehicles, and provide food for the volunteers and vaccinators.

Utlang said they trained vaccinators in each barangay to conduct the vaccination and have deputized citation ticket officers.

"After sa issuance sa citation ticket, mo-follow na sad ang atong population control. Bali magkapon ug ligate sa ana nga barangay. Sunod na pud, impounding na sad ana nga barangay aron full gyud ang atong implementation sa atong rabies control," Utlang said.

Utlang said that if the barangay would not cooperate and follow their assigned schedule, it will not be able to avail of the free service, unless the barangay would fully implement registration.

"Tagaan gihapon sila og bakuna, magbakuna gihapon ta sa ila pero dili na libre, mag-register na," Utlang said.

She also said there have been 18 cases of rabies in dogs recorded this year, five of which were stray dogs while the rest were house dogs.

"That's the reason why our main focus for vaccination is on the house dogs. House dogs nga free-roaming kay there are a lot of dogs right now in the city, owned pero dili confined. So mogawas-gawas, unya wala pa gyu'y bakuna, so mapaakan og rabison nga iro mao nang magka-rabies," Utlang said.

Based on records, among the barangays with rabies cases are Barangays Toong, Kinasang-an, Bonbon, Apas, Basak Pardo, Tejero, Cogon Pardo, Talamban, Kamputhaw, Duljo Fatima, San Antonio, Pahina Central, Mambaling, and Busay. According to Durinda Macasocol, Nurse III of the City Health Department, although the Department of Health provides medicines and vaccines, there is still a need for support from the local government.

"For Cebu City, mao nang mangita gyud ta og requirement like referrals from the health centers and voter's ID or certification para to make sure nga atoa gyu'ng lumulupyo diri sa Cebu City atong ma-cater," Macasocol said.

She said that as of the 3rd quarter this year, there were 9,383 cases of rabies with two deaths. Those casualties were from Barangays Toong and Busay.

"Kani diay silang nangamatay nga mga tawo wala gyud ni niadto sa bite treatment center, nagpabakuna. Og buot huna-hunaon, naa'y daghang libreng bakuna sa rabies sa tawo sa mga bite treatment center," Utlang said.

Macasocol said all animal bite centers in almost all cities and municipalities in the Philippines are provided with vaccines, so these can give free immunization for human patients.

She also reminded the public that if they were bitten by a stray dog, they should immediately go to a barangay health center to be immunized against tetanus. Utlang said patients would be evaluated there before they are endorsed to the bite treatment center at the City Health Department.

"If you are bitten by a dog unya ang iro bakunado, naa ra, maobserbaran ra, unya ang imong paak layo sa ulo, pwede ra i-delay ang imong pagpabakuna. Obserbahan sa ang iro, 7 to 14 days kay ang iro nga naa'y rabies gyud, maka-paak o wala, mamatay within 5 to 7 days," Utlang said.

Cebu City's 2017 Sinulog grand parade will be shorter, safer

(PNA), JBP/EB/EBP

CEBU CITY, Dec. 28 (PNA) -- The Cebu City government has shortened the 2017 Sinulog Grand Parade carousel route set on Jan. 17 next year from six to four kilometers, an official said.

Cebu City Councilor David Tumulak, who has been assigned by Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña to oversee the Sinulog Festival, said they intend to finish the parade by 4 p.m.. It will start at 9 in the morning.

Tumulak, who also chairs the Cebu City Council committee on peace and order, said there will also be separate assembly areas for contingents of the street dancing, float, puppeteer and 'higante' competitions.

"This will avoid crowding and to heighten security," he said.

He said the contingents will converge on Gen. Maxilom Avenue before heading to the Cebu City Sports Complex (CCSC) on Osmena Boulevard.

Participants of the street dancing will go from New Imus Road in Barangay Carreta going to CCSC via Fuente Osmeña.

The floats and higantes will use Gen. Maxilom Avenue going to A. Soriano Avenue, while the puppeteers’ route will start from M.J. Cuenco Avenue to Gen. Maxilom Avenue.

"There will be no vehicles, puppeteers or floats along the strip for the dancers. Before the grand parade starts, there will be K9 units that will inspect the floats and all the service vehicles of the participants," Tumulak said.

Tumulak said they have prepared a security plan in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.

"Security will definitely be tighter starting Jan. 6, which is the opening of the Sinulog celebration. Rest assured, were giving safety and security to our spectators. Our security set up is different from previous years," Tumulak said.

SM scholars gather for general assembly

(PR)

Two hundred SM Foundation scholars gathered for their very first general assembly in Cebu last December 14 at the SM Seaside City Cebu.

The program started with a welcome message from Linda Atayde, SM Foundation executive director for education programs, sharing the motivating journey of SM founder and patriarch, Henry Sy Sr.

This was followed by four heart-felt testimonials from current SM Foundation technical-vocational scholars who shared the hardships they had to overcome and how the SM scholarship was an answer to their prayers.

With a renewed confidence for a brighter tomorrow, the scholars shared how much they look forward to help their own families as well. Two encouraging success stories from former SM Foundation college scholars gave the students much to look forward to when they complete their studies.

The highlight of the program was an inspirational message from SM Foundation Vice President for Plans and Programs Mario Deriquito, who shared four bite-sized lessons that the scholars can take with them in their journey.

First, Deriquito emphasized that each of the scholars should maximize their time as a student, of which their primary role is to learn. He stressed that learning is not only attained in the classroom but also outside, as it is important to volunteer in their respective communities.

Deriquito then underlined the importance of finding a good job that will enable each one to help themselves and their families.

Thirdly, Deriquito reminded the scholars that when the day comes that they are in the position to help, they should do so as the country needs a lot of good people.

Lastly, he pressed the importance of continuous learning and dreaming in order to carry on greater heights from this opportunity.

With a long but bright journey facing the SM scholars, Deriquito closed his message with a quote from J. Hudson Taylor: “I have always found three stages in every great work of God. First it is impossible. Then it is difficult. Then it is done.”

Of the 200 scholars, 165 were technical-vocational scholars taking up courses in Industrial Arts, Home Economics, Mechanical Technology and Automotive Technology in SM Foundation partner schools: Banilad Center for Professional Development, Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise, Don Bosco and School of Knowledge for Industrial Labor Leadership and Service. The SM scholars were also treated to a free movie screening of “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.”

SM Foundation helps uplift the quality of life of the communities where SM is present.

In Cebu alone, the foundation supports 169 college scholars aside from the 165 technical-vocational scholars. It has also built and donated four school buildings with a total of 14 fully furnished classrooms. It has renovated and refurbished two health centers and has conducted six medical missions. The foundation has also trained a total of 1,096 farmers under its Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan Farmers’ Training Program. Through SM Foundation’s Grow a Million Trees Program, 10,000 trees have been planted and are currently being cared for by its partner people’s organizations in the area.

Read more: http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/117136/sm-scholars-gather-general-assembly#ixzz4U3xQ1cwP Follow us: @inquirerdotnet on Twitter | inquirerdotnet on Facebook

Johndorf lines up 6 projects for 2017

(PR)

JOHNDORF Ventures Corp. (JVC) will be more aggressive in 2017, with at least six projects already lined up that are part of the P2 billion capital outlay the company had set aside for five years that began in 2013.

As the year of the fire rooster begins, the company will open and launch the fifth subdivision at the 12-hectare Johndorf township in Calawisan, its first project in mid-southeastern Cebu, and another in suburban Cebu City.

More housing developments are also in the pipeline in Mindanao for next year, said Michele D. Chiu-Bacungan, JVC sales and marketing manager.

One will be in Iligan City, where the company started 30 years ago, she said.

Another will be in Davao City, where the company aims to surpass the success of Portville Davao two years ago, she added.

JVC will also embark with its first project in General Santos City in southern Mindanao, she disclosed.

“2017 will be a big year for us,” remarked Bacungan.

The company had been aggressive this year developing two subdivisions in Cebu and embarking on a major project in Cagayan de Oro City.

As the year is about the close, the company is working with partner brokers and agents to sell out the remaining inventories of Portville Prime and Navona, Bacungan said.

Situated beside Portville Mactan in northeastern Lapu-Lapu City, JVC built Portville Prime in a 1.5-hectare property that is now a community of middle-class 2-storey affordable townhomes.

Portville Prime came as the company’s first attempt at offering an economic-to-middle class project with bigger dimensions than usual for the market category in terms of lot and floor areas, width of main and arterial roads, and more.

JVC developed Navona as the fourth of six subdivisions with a commercial hub planned for the township of Johndorf Calawisan in southwestern Mactan in a three-hectare property with 431 Asian-themed townhouses.

Midway this year, the company introduced Montierra Uptown in the capital of northern Mindanao, now the trademark of the company for economic-to-middle class housing that evolved from the Portville Prime experience.

Planned for 600 Asian townhomes, JVC is set to turn over units in the first tranche of phase one by the first quarter of 2017 in the 7.5-hectare project that will have wider roads, spacious homes, a grander clubhouse, and more amenities.

Johndorf has been building homes Filipinos aspire to have for 30 years now, and built along a legacy for its stakeholders, especially the homeowners. More than providing them with “sustainable communities that bring them a better life,” CEO Richard Lim said JVC also looked at the growth of its employees and those who have worked with the company through the years.

Cebu City Council approves funds for garbage collection

By Morexette Erram

The Cebu City council has authorized Mayor Tomas Osmeña to use the P9.2 million unspent funds of the previous administration to pay a private hauler or service provider to collect the city’s garbage and dump it in an authorized, final dumping site for garbage generated in the last weeks of December this year and in the first two weeks of January, 2017.

With a simple majority vote of eight of 15 councilors, the council acceded to Osmeña’s request to pass a resolution granting him the power to spend the city’s unspent funds last year, as an emergency measure to resolve, albeit temporarily the city’s garbage collection and disposal problem.

The mayor wants to hire a “feasible and legal” service provider to haul and collect the city’s garbage estimated at 500 tons per day.

The mayor attended the council’s special session yesterday.

Transfer stations

The money will also be spent to fund the operation of two garbage-transfer stations chosen by the city.

“(Initially), we proposed to the city council to authorize the mayor to sign the agreement, subject to an emergency procurement system, with a service provider that will provide the transfer station of the garbage and who will dump it into an authorized dumpsite. Unfortunately, no provider is able to provide the transfer station – which is very difficult,” said Francisco “Bimbo” Fernandez, the mayor’s executive assistant.

Since the potential private haulers were not able to identify transfer stations that they can use, he said it will have to be the Cebu City government that would provide these transfer stations.

Initially, they had planned on using the South Road Properties (SRP) lot beside the Pedro Calungsod Chapel and the Inayawan landfill but because of the Cease and Desist Order issued by the Court of Appeals, the city will have to look for another transfer station.

Fernandez, who attended the special session of the city council, reassured the body that they are looking for other options, that are technically and financially viable.

“We are constrained by law not only to take a closer look at that but also take a look into other options, and choose the best through using emergency processes,” Fernandez added.

The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB – 7) said that transfer stations must secure the necessary permits to protect the environment.

“Of course, we will have to act and obtain them as soon as possible,” said Fernandez.

Temporary dumpsite

Osmeña also presented his proposals to the EMB during a closed-door meeting.

He later announced the city’s plan to petition the CA to allow them to reuse the Inayawan landfill as a temporarily dumpsite until they can find a “more concrete solution” to the solid waste management problem of the city.

“What I wanted was that we’ll bid out for the whole year and let another transfer station (operate), and a service provider, to bid out the trucking so that we don’t have to worry about it for about a year and maybe bid it out again,” the mayor said. Osmeña also said that he had no choice but to continue dumping garbage in the city-owned lot at the South Road Properties (SRP).

He said officials of EMB -7 “ placed him in a situation where he has to dump the garbage without a landfill” and do it illegally by using the Inayawan landfill.

“I’m not going to break the law. I’d rather break the EMB rules and face the consequences than face graft and corruption,” the mayor said, reiterating his stand during the Council’s special session.

No Recommendations

The EMB declined to comment on the proposals presented by Osmeña during their technical meeting.

EMB – 7 regional director William Cuñado told reporters that his office has not given any recommendations on how the city can solve its garbage problem.

“We only act as a body providing technical assistance and support to the local government unit (LGU) on environmental aspects. In case the LGU violates any existing environmental laws, we will file a request for the National Solid Waste Commission (NSWC) to file administrative or criminal charges against them,” Cuñado said.

The NSWC is the sole bureau tasked to file complaints for environmental violations committed by LGUs before the Ombudsman.

Cuñado said they already sent their request to the NSWC, on the same day the CA issued the CDO last October.

“NSWC will determine and identify what appropriate actions, fines and penalties they (city government) have to deal with,” the EMB – 7 regional director added.

Adventures in the ‘Queen City’

By Claire Marie Algarme

CEBU, the oldest city in the Philippines, is one of my most visited places in the country.

My first trip there was when I was around 10 years old.

It was followed by our educational trip there when I was in high school.

Since I started working, business trips to Cebu were frequent.

And before this year is over, the last place I traveled to is Cebu, which is my last adventure for 2016.

Progress and development

As I passed along Cebu’s thoroughfares and small alleys, I have seen new buildings cropping up left and right.

There were recognizable scenes, yet there were several not-so-familiar areas, too that have captured my attention. Progress is definitely visible in this Queen City of the South.

It is so apparent that there was traffic congestion almost everywhere.

Taking a cab was quite a challenge as most of them were occupied.

The good thing though, I learned to take the jeepney from one point to another, despite not being so familiar with the route.

I like the number system in their jeeps, as it was easier to take note of which one I should hail and which ones I shouldn’t.

Cebu is a prime destination for business and leisure, given its various venues and facilities that can cater to large Mice (meetings, incentives, conferences and events) activities.

Mactan has many five-star resort hotels that provide the best services and amenities.

There are also more tourist attractions in the entire province, which are accessible by land or by sea.

Go north to Bantayan or south to Sumilon.

You can go snorkeling at Moalboal or canyoneering at Badian.

Fuente Osmeña

The center of the roundabout in Fuente Osmeña is now teeming with people as bazaars and eateries are set up inside.

When the sun goes down and the sky darkens, the place is abuzz with stalls starting to prepare their dinner offerings.

The whiff of food fills the vicinity. And where there’s smoke…there’s grilled food.

Families and friends enjoy a night picnic in Fuente Osmeña, invigorating the Christmas vibe.

There are also shows and performances that draw audience to Fuente, apart from the fountain and the Christmas tree as some of the wonderful attractions. Sto. Niño and the downtown area The downtown area, especially Colon Street, is a bit crowded.

The buildings are quite old but they hold a certain kind of allure.

It was like traveling back in time. When in Cebu City, never miss visiting the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu.

The church was damaged during the earthquake in 2013, but it has now been repaired.

I heard anticipated mass at the open-air pilgrim center.

At the end of the mass, devotees and pilgrims gather in the middle to wait for the final blessing by the priests and ministers.

The devotion to the Sto. Niño in Cebu has a rich history tracing back from the time of the arrival of Ferdinand Magellan and his crew in 1521.

This devotion is celebrated every January through the Sinulog Festival.

Cebu spots to hangout on Christmas season

By Aljun Cainghog (CIT-University Intern) [(AC/Sunnex)]

CHRISTMAS Day falls on a weekend and it is a perfect time when most of us spend the holiday break with our family and friends either at home or around the city.

If you’re looking for a place within Cebu City that offers good food, refreshments, music, and amusement rides, try these "most-visited" spots during Christmas season.

Fuente Osmeña Circle

The Fuente Osmeña Circle is perfect for families who don’t want to travel far from the city. Aside from the 125-feet iconic Christmas tree, stalls selling food, t-shirts, slippers, and other accessories are also an attraction in the area. Visitors can also enjoy their meals (or beers) while listening to live music played by local artists.

Kasadya sa SRP

Do you like carnival rides? If you do, then Kasadya sa SRP (South Road Properties) is the best place for you.

Every December, Kasadya sa SRP is open to everyone who loves to experience different carnival rides like the ferris wheel, roller coaster, merry-go-rounds, among others.

The carnival, which has food stalls situated outside, is open from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.; and is also open on December 24 and 25.

Just prepare P20 entrance fee for each person and fees (ranging from P20 to P50) if you want to enjoy the rides.

Plaza Independencia

While Plaza Independencia is a good hangout during the day as trees provide shade to visitors, it is also a dating venue as Christmas lights brighten the area during the night.

The historic Fort San Pedro that stood inside the park completes the romantic scene. The park opens at 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. from Mondays to Friday and 5 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free.

Night Market

If you’re looking for best deal of clothes, toys, accessories, and other Christmas gift items, head to the night market located at downtown Colon Street (from corner Jakosalem Street up to Mabini Street).

Just don't forget to haggle to get the best deals.

Sugbo Mercado

If you're on a hunt for mouth-watering food and refreshments with reasonable prices, visit Sugbo Mercado.

Sugbo Mercado-SRP Branch will not be open this weekend. But its branch in I.T. Park is open from December 20 to 23 from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., while its branch at the Cebu Business Park is open from 4 p.m. to 12 midnight. All branches will resume their operations on January 5, 2017.

Cebu City to open a business permit office in Robinsons Galleria Cebu in 2017

By John Carlo Villaruel (USJR Intern)

Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña and Robinsons Land Regional operations manager Floramie Vega signed today a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that will allow the city government to operate a business permit office at Robinsons Galleria Cebu.

Under the MOA, which was signed at the mayor’s office, Robinsons Land will be offering an area located on the ground floor of Robinsons Galleria where businessmen can renew their business permits in the next three years, or from 2017 to 2019.

“Project Venue” will begin operations on January 2. The office will be open from 9 a.m. to 12 midnight.

Robinsons Galleria Cebu, one of the biggest mall projects in the country of Robinsons Land, is located in Maxilom Avenue Extension, North Reclamation Area, Cebu City.


Anyeong to Coffee Bay at SM Seaside City Cebu

(PR)

COFFEE Bay at SM Seaside City Cebu offers one of the best coffee and fresh pastries in the city with main ingredients sourced from Korea.

Coffee Bay has a wide array of coffee and specialty drink and one must try CB’s iced coffee and iced lemonade that taste differently good than the usual.

The coffee shop is also famous for their popping real slices of banana on the top with flavors that go along with mango, strawberry, and chocolate.

Aside from coffee, desserts are also available like CB’s shaved ice which is best paired with their best-selling bread, the Cube bread with variants such as choco, choco banana, strawberry, and caramel.

The irresistible bagels and cream cheese are just mouthwatering. One can choose one of CB’s colorful bagels with choices of cream cheese flavors like Oreo, cranberry, mango, and choco.

The Korean brand Coffee Bay’s first store in Cebu is at the second floor of SM Seaside City Cebu’s City Wing. Hurry and get your free eco-tumbler for every purchase of any pastry and drink products.

River Tourism Committee beneficial to towns – PB

By Kristine B. Quintas (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Provincial Board's committee on laws has concurred that the creation of the Alegria-Badian River Tourism Committee is "beneficial" to both the municipalities of Alegria and Badian despite the latter's opposition.

The committee, chaired by Board Member Raul Bacaltos, said Executive Order No. 2-2016 issued by Governor Hilario Davide III is "mutually beneficial to the two local government units concerned, more particularly in the aspect of tourism."

"Hence, adherence thereto is strongly recommended," it added.

The committee also said that the issuance of the EO is consistent with the province's mandate as a supervisory authority over its component cities and municipalities.

The local government unit of Badian has opposed the creation of a tourism committee because it reportedly "doesn't serve (for) the best interest of both towns."

Badian Mayor Carmencita Lumain earlier said the EO only favors their neighboring town, Alegria.

"We want a fair and unbiased resolve and we find this latest executive order prejudicial to our right of existence as an autonomous local government unit," reads the November 24 position paper Lumain submitted to Davide.

She said the rule stipulated in the EO that all canyoneering activities will start in Compostela, Alegria town and will end in Kawasan, Badian is "biased and subservient to Alegria's original plan to expand their clout on other territorial grounds."

Badian wants an entrance point in Barangay Sulsugan.

Lumain also said Alegria has been persistently insisting on the "legal supremacy: of the latest cadastral survey conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources "to be able to expand their political territory in order to serve their vested interests."

According to Alegria Mayor Verna Magallon, the result of the survey showed that the whole stretch of Kanlaob River belongs to Alegria.

In a resolution, the Alegria town Council backed the result of the relocation survey, which identifies the official boundary between Alegria and Badian. The survey was conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Geodetic Engineer James Fuentes of DENR conducted a survey that led to the preparation of a "Sketch Plan of Can-yoneering as prepared for Sulsugan, Badian and Compostela, Alegria.

The resolution was referred to the PB, which referred the same to the committee on laws and review on ordinances for comments and review.

The committee on laws said the passage of the resolution is within the prescribed powers of the town pursuant to Section 18 of the Republic Act 7160.

"(The approval of the resolution) is a prerogative of the Sanggunian concerned," it said.

It further recommended for the "approval" of the town's resolution.

Cebu City cops prepare security plan for Sinulog 2017

(PNA), LAP/EB/EDS

CEBU CITY, Dec. 19 (PNA) -- The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) is preparing a security plan for the Sinulog 2017 celebration which falls on the third Sunday of January, an official said.

Chief Insp. David Señor, CCPO operations division chief, said the preparation includes a walk-through of the Sinulog Grand Parade route which was conducted on Sunday.

Senor said he was accompanied in the walk-through inspection by the station commanders, the engineering department, the sponsors and the Cebu City Government.

Senor said he noted some minor obstacles in the parade route, but he assured the public that the Sinulog will push through.

“There will be a clearing operation three weeks before the Sinulog. Piles of construction materials that were placed after the road construction will be cleared, together with ambulant vendors and telephone cables,” he said.

Señor said five judging areas will be put up along the routes.

The assembly area will start with the contingents from Barangay Carreta to the area in front of the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC) on P. Del Rosario up to N. Bacalso Ave.

It will cover the area of Sector 6, 7 and 8 where there will be no judges.

Almost 2,000 security personnel, which includes uniformed men, police in civilian clothes, university students, military, as well as the local government units, will be deployed for crowd control.

City Hall maps out hybrid train route

By Jose Santino S. Bunachita

Cebu City Hall came out with a proposed route for the 40-meter hybrid electric road train donated by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

Ma. Theresa Sederiosa, Cebu City’s investment promotions officer, said the route will start at the impounding facility of the Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) in the North Reclamation Area (NRA) where the vehicle is currently being kept.

From there, it will traverse S. Osmeña Road and turn right at the corner near Robinsons Galleria Cebu and then turn left again to the New Imus Road.

The road train will go straight to N. Bacalso Ave. and all the way until it reaches corner V. Rama Ave. where it will make a right turn.

It will then pass through B. Rodriguez St. and turn right to Osmeña Blvd. and turn left to P. Del Rosario St., going to Imus Road and all the way back to NRA.

“This was what was presented to us as the most probable route. This is the most feasible, but that can still change,” she told Cebu Daily News.

The road train arrived in Cebu last Wednesday morning, but it will take up to four weeks to be assembled by technicians from the DOST who will have to come back by January because of the holidays.

This is why the city targets to have the road train running already by mid-February.

The lack of a route with roads wide enough to accommodate the road train, the first of its kind for Cebu, is also a problem.

The road train is 2.5 meters wide and would basically occupy one whole lane of the road. It is composed of five coaches, which makes it 40 meters long in all.

The first coach carries the driver and the engine and can accommodate 30 passengers.

The second, third and fourth coaches can accommodate 40 to 50 passengers each.

The last coach carries only the batteries for the road train.

“It will not run for 24 hours, maybe at most nine to 10 hours a day. We are still coordinating with Citom (CCTO) for the final route. We are looking for one with less turns and less disruptions to existing traffic,” Sederiosa said.

She said riding the road train will be free of charge to the public.

Sederiosa said though that designated stops will have to be established along the route.

In a report they earlier sent to the DOST, CCTO Executive Director Rafael Yap said this route is the most favorable.

Based on the report, the CCTO said there are no passenger jeepneys picking up and dropping off passengers from the NRA and passing along the New Imus Road going to P. Del Rosario St. and V. Rama Ave.

The CCTO suggested three other routes but ruled them all as unfavorable for the road train.

The first suggestion will have the road train pass through Osmeña Blvd. from the Fuente Circle, turn left to P. Del Rosario St. to the New Imus Road, and turn left to Gen. Maxilom Ave. and back to Fuente Circle.

But the CCTO said there are already many passenger jeepneys passing through this route and the volume of vehicular traffic along Gen. Maxilom Ave. is already heavy.

The second proposed route starts from the Fuente Circle going to Gen. Maxilom Ave., to New Imus Road then to P. Del Rosario St. going all the way to N. Bacalso Ave. then turn right to V. Rama Ave. and turn right to B. Rodriguez St. back to Fuente Circle.

But since this route still passes through the heavily congested Gen. Maxilom Ave., CCTO said it’s not feasible.

The last proposal starts from JY Square in Barangay Lahug, going to Salinas Drive to Pope John Paul II Ave., then turn right to S. Osmeña Road then turn right to Gen. Maxilom Ave. then turn right to Gorordo Ave. back to JY Square.

But the CCTO said the roads in Salinas Drive and Pope John Paul II Ave. are too narrow and a portion of Gorordo Avenue experiences high traffic volume during peak hours.

Cebu hotel to hire 500 workers this month

By Dominic D. Yasay

Bai Hotel Cebu, the flagship project of local hotel developer and operator Bai Global Properties, is opening more than 500 job opportunities during its upcoming job fair on December 19.

In an exclusive interview with Cebu Daily News, Bai Hotel vice president for operations and general manager Alfred Reyes said that the hotel is looking for competent individuals with a passion for the hospitality industry.

He said they need to hire front office staff, receptionist, bell boys, telephone operators, waiters and waitresses, housekeeping staff, room cleaners, engineers, and sales and marketing associates and supervisors among others.

“As long as you have the right attitude and the passion to serve, you are welcome to join us,” said Reyes.

The job fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the meeting rooms A, B and C located on the third floor of SM City Cebu.

Applicants must bring their resume and application letter and are required to be in full business attire.

Female applicants are not allowed to wear sleeveless blouse, trousers and flat shoes.

City releases P3.2 million to scholars with honors

By Jean Marvette A. Demecillo with Vania Lim (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - At least 364 scholars of the Cebu City government for the years 2015 and 2016 received incentives yesterday totaling P3.2 million after graduating with honors.

Cebu City Scholarship Office Executive Assistant II Shine Alexis Antonio said for this year, one scholar graduated summa cum laude, while there are 19 magna cum laude scholars and the rest are cum laude graduates from different accredited schools.

The P3.2 million for the incentives is charged to the revised annual budget this year.

In 2015, Antonio said the city government was not able to release the incentives because of the issue on charging the budget to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation funds.

"Sa original ordinance, the original appropriation was supposedly under PAGCOR funds. However, the previous accounting office did not allow the charging to the PAGCOR funds," she said.

Under the ordinance, summa cum laude scholars will get P20,000 from the city government while magna cum laude scholars will get P15,000 and P10,000 for a cum laude graduate. Freeman ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch:

Lyka Remeticado of Asian College of Technology graduated summa cum laude with the degree Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Remeticado said poverty should never hinder anyone from reaching their goals, particularly finishing school.

Born to a tricycle driver and a housewife, Remeti-cado said apart from having luck on her side, determination has helped her go through all the problems she encountered while going to school.

"It is a wakeup call to all individuals, to all the aspiring students, to all the youth, nga there is no hindrance, whether what status you belong to in society — whether you are born rich, whether you are born poor, whether you're in your initial years or during your high school years, latagaw ka - wala ju'y maka-determine basta imo lang is you are going to do what you have to do, [and] what you want. Mu-come along ra na siya," she said.

Remeticado said she was motivated to do her best due to the opportunity given to her by the city government.

"Naa man gali laing tao nga naningkamot para kami makahuman, nganong kami nga gitagaan mu- back out na hinuon," she said.

Remeticado now works at a website designing company as a business development officer.

Mayor Tomas Osmeña has vowed to push for more aid to the city's scholars.

"Education will always be my priority," Osmeña said.

The mayor reiterated his plan to revoke the sale of giant developers at the South Road properties and sell it for a higher price to increase the scholarship grant of the city government.

The city's scholarship program started in 2010.

Through City Ordinance 2333, or the ordinance establishing the Cebu City scholarship program, City Hall grants a P10,000 per semester financial assistance to each qualified scholar.

Osmeña said he will find a way to increase the assistance from P10,000 to P50,000 per semester.

"Yes, P50,000 kada semester. Dili namo kaapil ana pero at least, atong tagaan og chance atong kabataan. Maningkamot gyud ko nga all our high school students will be able to go to college," he said.

Further, Osmeña said he will also think of programs for out-of-school-youths.

Cebu City Triathlon set Jan. 29

By Glendale G. Rosal

THE THIRD edition of Cebu City Triathlon will be held on Jan. 29 next year at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC).

The only triathlon race that is held at the heart of Cebu City, the event is expected to draw 200 to 300 triathletes, who will compete in two categories — the sprint and relay categories.

The event will will feature a 750-meter swim, 20-kilometer bike and 5k run. The swimming pool at CCSC will be used for the swim portion while the bike and run events will traverse the city’s major thoroughfares.

Cebuana triathlete Aaliyah Mataragnon is the defending back-to-back champion in the women’s division, while Boholano Paul Jumamil dominated the men’s division last year.

Justin Chiongbian is the inaugural men’s division champion.

The event is organized by Cornerstone Group.

Registration for the race held in line with the Sinulog Festival celebration has already started.

Registrations fees are pegged at P2,800 for the sprint contest and P6,000 for the relay event.

To register, one may visit cornerstone8080events.com.

Cebu prelate to celebrate first Misa de Gallo at San Pedro Calungsod Shrine

(PNA), LAP/EB/EDS

CEBU CITY, Dec. 13 (PNA) -- Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma will celebrate on Friday, Dec. 16, the first Misa de Gallo at the San Pedro Calungsod Shrine on D. Jakosalem St., Cebu City.

Calungsod is the first Filipino saint from Cebu and the Visayas and only the second saint from the Philippines.

On Dec. 19, Palma will celebrate Misa de Gallo at the San Pedro Calungsod Quasi-Parish in Barangay Mojon, Sogod.

On the next day, he will celebrate it at the CCTN Chapel in Barangay Mabolo, Cebu City.

On Dec. 21, Palma will officiate the dawn mass at the Shrine of San Roque in Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City.

On Dec. 22, Palma’s Misa de Gallo will be at the San Isidro Labrador Parish in Barangay Garing, Consolacion.

On Dec. 23, Palma will celebrate it at the San Pedro Calungsod Parish in Sitio Pulambato, Barangay Talamban, Cebu City.

The Bag-ong Lungsaranon, the official newsletter of the Archdiocese of Cebu, said Palma urged parishes to discuss on five sub-themes focused on the current liturgical year.

These sub-themes are Metanoia, the changing of one’s self; Charismata, the various gifts coming from the spirit; Diakonia, the call to serve the poor and the oppressed; Koinonia, the communion of the faithful; and Eucharistia, the body of Christ.

Palma said the Pastoral Planning Board of the Archdiocese of Cebu is preparing the texts that will guide priests in discussing the five sub-themes during mass.

The tree amid the Terraces

By Jo Ann Sablad (Sunnex)

IN AYALA Center Cebu, different attractions, such as posh restaurants, different shops, fun-filled events, including the mall's landmark - The Terraces - will definitely catch your attention.

As you tread on the Terraces grounds, you would surely notice its centerpiece - an old, big tree that has become a common sight.

But little do mall goers know the story behind that lone acacia tree.

Ayala Center Cebu General Manager Celeste “Bong” Dy said the acacia tree is over 35 years old.

Even before the mall's construction 22 years ago, the tree stood on the same area, which was a golf course then, Dy said, adding that they have been very careful not to stress the tree so it won't die.

What made the tree the centerpiece of the Terraces is its story - a testament of sturdiness that stood the test of time.

From the years it spent in the golf course when golf players and caddies stayed under its shade during a game, to the years it spent as the mall’s masterpiece, new and fresh stories unfold and different hues of life happen within its surrounding, Dy said.

Donned with dazzling and colorful lights for the Ayala mall's Symphony of Lights this Christmas season, the acacia tree firmly stands to amaze the people around.

Veco opens new service center

(PR)

TO provide convenience to customers, the Visayan Electric Co. Inc. (Veco) will open a new service center at the ground floor of One Pavilion Mall in Banawa, Cebu City.

The newest Veco service branch will open on Dec. 12, 2016.

It will operate from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m, Monday to Sunday.

This will be Veco’s fourth satellite office, which maintains service centers in SM Consolacion, Tabunok, Talisay City (south extension office) and at SM City Cebu North Reclamation Area (full service center).

“This expansion is part of our goal in creating ease of doing business for our customers.

We aim to construct small offices all over Metro Cebu to cater to the needs of our customers and provide them a hassle-free experience,” Veco assistant vice president for customer retail services Bailey del Castillo said.

Cebu City inaugurates Php 84.5-M extension building for state hospital

(PNA),RMA/EB/RSM

CEBU CITY, Dec. 10 (PNA) -- The Cebu City government inaugurated on Friday the Php 84.5-million North District Hospital building in the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), the biggest state-run hospital in Cebu city.

The new four story building adds 130 beds to the public facility, increasing its capacity from 800 to 1,200 beds.

This was made possible with the passage of Republic Act (RA) 10770 last April 16, which was principally authored by Rep. Raul del Mar (Cebu City, north).

He first worked to upgrade the hospital’s bed capacity last June 22, 1998 from 400 to 800 beds, through RA 8658.

“His continuous efforts in upgrading VSMMC’s capacity have greatly contributed to making the hospital the biggest government-run tertiary, teaching/training medical center in the region,” said VSMMC medical director Dr. Gerardo Aquino.

Del Mar said it was his daughter, former north district congresswoman Rachel “Cutie” del Mar, who initiated the project in 2011.

Work on the project formally started last Dec. 19, 2011 and ended last Aug. 28 of this year.

Apart from the ongoing installation of its passenger elevator, the hospital is now 91 percent done and ready to accommodate constituents.

Del Mar said that with the hospital building connected to VSMMC, the facility’s personnel will be readily available to help those in need of treatment.

Drainage works go full swing

By Elias O. Baquero

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) yesterday said more drainage projects will be implemented in strategic areas in Cebu City to solve lingering floods during rainy days.

District Engr. Nicomedes Leonor, of the DPWH Cebu City Engineering District, said the drainage projects in Barangay Mabolo and D. Jakosalem St. are ongoing and may be completed early next year.

Leonor said these projects were facilitated by Rep. Raul del Mar (Cebu City North) and were funded in 2015 yet.

But these were delayed because Cebu City Hall refused to issue permits during the time of then mayor Michael Rama.

Leonor said the huge drainage project on Colon St. is now ready for implementation, but the contractor might be able to proceed by the end of January 2017 yet because of the “policy of no excavation” from Dec. 15, 2016 to January 2017 because of the Christmas season and Sinulog.

Leonor said the construction/rehabilitation of flood control structures on Juan Luna Ave., Mabolo, Cebu City is undertaken by contractor, Pragmatic Construction and Development Corp. The cost of the project is P58.3 million and the system is 1.5 kilometers long.

On the other hand, Leonor said the rehabilitation/reconstruction/upgrading of damaged paved national roads (National Secondary Road-Colon Street) is contracted by WTG Construction and Development Corp.

This project is funded by DPWH in the amount of P36.9 million with a length 192 linear meters.

Flooding Last July 1, Metro Cebu received a 55-mm. rainfall that caused flooding in various areas in Mandaue City, Cebu City and Talisay City, halting traffic for hours and stranded thousands of commuters.

Al Quiblat, chief of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Administration (Pagasa) in Mactan, said that the 55-mm. rainfall last July 1 was considered normal, compared to the daily volume during the rainy season in the last 30 years.

However, the floodis occurred due to inadequate drainage systems. This has prompted Presidential Assistant Michael Lloyd Dino to call a stakeholders’ meeting with the Metro Cebu Development and Coordinating Board (MCDCB) and DPWH Secretary Mark Villar last July 6.

They listened to complaints and suggestions in connection with the July 1 flood.

Meeting Dino, who informed President Rodrigo Duterte about floods, also ordered Villar to meet with the private sector leaders, mayors and Cebu congressmen so he will know their problems.

In that meeting, Villar promised to the Cebuanos that DPWH will implement the short-term solution to declog the drainage systems, and implement huge drainage projects in the long term.

DPWH implements PHP96.2M worth of road, drainage projects in Cebu City

(PNA), LAP/EB/EDS

CEBU CITY, Dec. 8 (PNA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has implemented some PHP96.2 million worth of drainage and road rehabilitation projects in Cebu City, an official said.

Engr. Nicomedes Leonor, DPWH Cebu City Engineering District chief, said these projects include the construction and rehabilitation of flood control projects in Mabolo and the rehabilitation of a portion of Colon Street, the oldest street in the Philippines.

Leonor said the flood control structures on Juan Luna Ave., Mabolo, Cebu City, which is undertaken by contractor Pragmatic Construction and Development Corp., is 1.5 kilometers long and costs PHP58.3 million.

Leonor said the rehabilitation of a 192-meter stretch of Colon St., undertaken by WTG Construction and Development Corp., costs PHP36.9 million.

Leonor said the drainage projects in Barangay Mabolo and D. Jakosalem St. are ongoing and may be completed early next year.

Leonor said these projects were facilitated by Rep. Raul del Mar (Cebu City North) and were funded in 2015 yet.

But these were delayed because Cebu City Hall refused to issue permits during the time of then Cebu City mayor Michael Rama.

Leonor said the huge drainage project on Colon St. is now ready for implementation, but the contractor might be able to proceed by the end of January 2017 yet because of the city’s “policy of no excavation” from Dec. 15, 2016 to January 2017 because of the Christmas season and Sinulog.

DSWD 7’s livelihood program produces 1,297 graduates

By Justin K. Vestil

LUREZEL Rallos, 37, didn’t regret when she decided to train as a security guard.

Despite her husband’s initial objections, Rallos said she pursued the training under the Centurion Security Agency after the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 7 offered to spend for her training and to help her find a job after her graduation.

After months of training, Rallos and 1,296 others graduated from the DSWD’s skills training, job-matching and employment facilitation program yesterday.

Rallos, a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pampamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) since 2011, availed herself of the program through the DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP).

Rizalina Patindol, DSWD 7 focal person for SLP, told reporters that through the program, they assisted Rallos and other 4Ps beneficiaries by finding them technical schools to train in as well as their employers.

Patindol said that all technical schools that provided training to the beneficiaries underwent bidding before they were chosen as service providers.

During the training, beneficiaries received a P20,000 stipend that served as their training fee, food and transportation allowances, lodging fee, money for uniforms and the licensing fee for security guards.

Aside from the training for security guards, the DSWD also offers programs, such as call center agents’ training, automotive services, beauty care services, housekeeping and massage services.

The SLP also includes micro-enterprising ventures, which will provide a seed capital to 4Ps beneficiaries to start their business.

In a separate interview, Maria Evelyn Macapobre, DSWD 7 director, that at least 27,000 4Ps beneficiaries have availed themselves of the SLP this year.

This number exceeds the regional agency’s annual target of 24,000 beneficiaries, said Macapobre.

For 2017, Macapobre said that the DSWD aims to facilitate 30,000 4Ps beneficiaries to enroll in the program.

Satellite registration mulled

By Rene U. Borromeo (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - The Commission on Elections in Cebu City is planning to hold a satellite registration in selected barangay to encourage voters to register early and not to wait for the deadline on April 29, 2017.

Cebu City Election Officer Marchel Sarno said that holding satellite registration would also help Persons with Disabilities, Internally Displaced Persons, and senior citizens because they do not need to travel anymore to the Comelec offices. IDPs are those voters who were forced to migrate from their place because of circumstances.

The Comelec is expecting more than 55 million voters in the October 23, 2017 barangay and SK elections. Sarno said only very few people have availed of the continuing registration.

"Dili pa gyud kaayo daghan ang nagparehestro karon, tingali naghuwat na sab sa deadline ug adto na sila mag-inilogay," said Sarno.

The Comelec will accept new registrants, transfer of precinct, re-activation of voter's records with change or correction of entries, and inclusion or reinstatement of records on the list of voters.

The continuing registration started last November 7 and will end on April 23, 2017. Minors who will turn 15 on October 23, 2017 will be accepted for registration for SK. Sarno said the Comelec is calling on the youth, as well as regular voters, to register now in their respective election offices for them to be counted in the barangay and SK elections next year. Freeman ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch:

He said that listing up early would spare the registrant from the inconvenience during the deadline. Sarno noticed that most of those who transferred their registration in the city are senior citizens from the nearby provinces.

He believes that this could be due to the P12,000 annual financial assistance that the city government is giving to the elderly in the city. (FREEMAN)

Traffic rerouting set for Guadalupe fiesta in Cebu

(CID/Sunnex)

THE Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) and the Traffic Patrol Group will implement a traffic re-routing scheme during the celebration of the Our Lady of Guadalupe de Cebu at 5 p.m. on Sunday, December 11.

With the help of the Cebu City Government and police, the riding public are reminded of the affected streets along the procession route from Guadalupe Shrine straight to V. Rama Ave., then left turn to Barangay Road (beside Barangay Hall), right turn to A. Abellana St., right turn to M. Velez St., left turn to V. Rama Ave. Upon reaching Happy Valley make a U-turn and back straight to Guadalupe Shrine.

The CCTO has released a map showing the procession route.

https://scontent.fceb2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/s526x395/15349689_566359036883296_7169755010340130915_n.jpg?oh=85b0f8cc34c2535a4aaba53d67d57ce2&oe=58C379C8

Another map was released showing the re-routing scheme of the public utility jeepneys.

https://scontent.fceb2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/p320x320/15241952_566358986883301_3145214784881344121_n.jpg?oh=fcee08afc1fe650ecceb8dd083aafb75&oe=58C70FED

Traffic re-routing:

1. All Guadalupe passenger jeep while traversing along Osmeña Blvd. shall turn left to N. Escario St., left turn to Don Gil Garcia St., left turn to Jose Avila St. right turn to Osmeña Blvd., then to their point of destination.

2. All Guadalupe passenger jeep while traversing along V. Rama Ave. shall turn right to B. Rodriguez St., all the way up to Fuente Osmeña, turn around and turn right to Osmeña Blvd., left turn to N. Escario St., left turn to Don Gil Garcia St., left turn to Jose Avila St. right turn to Osmeña Blvd., right turn to B. Rodriguez St., left turn to V. Rama Ave., then to their point of destination.

3. All Banawa passenger jeep while traversing along Osmeña Blvd. shall turn around Fuente Rotunda then right turn to B. Rodriguez St., right turn to V. Rama Ave., left turn to Happy Valley, right turn to Salvador St., straight to Duterte St., right turn to Fortich St., to Horseshoe Drive, left turn to Happy Valley, right turn to V. Rama Ave., then to their point of destination at Downtown Area.

4. Passenger jeep from Labangon with Route No. 12L while traversing along N. Escario St., shall turn left to Osmeña Blvd. straight to Fuente Rotunda, turn right to B. Rodriguez St., right turn to V. Rama Ave., left turn to Happy Valley, left turn to Salvador St., then to their point of destination.

5. All motor vehicles passing M. Velez St., while traversing to Duterte St., shall turn right to Fortich St., then to Horseshoe Drive, left turn to Happy Valley, right turn to V. Rama Ave., then to their point of destination at Downtown Area.

After the procession all passenger jeep going to Guadalupe Church passing V. Rama Ave., shall turn right to Barangay Road (beside Barangay Hall), right turn to A. Abellana St., then to their point of destination at Downtown Area.

During the fiesta celebration, all passenger jeep going to Guadalupe Church passing V. Rama Ave., shall turn right to Barangay Road (beside Barangay Hall), right turn to A. Abellana St., then to their point of destination. Parking of motor vehicles on both sides of V. Rama Ave. are not allowed from the intersection of V. Rama Ave./M. Velez St., up to Guadalupe Church Rotunda.

Barangay Road (beside Barangay Hall) shall be utilized as exit route from V. Rama Ave. going to A. Abellana St., while Bacayo St. and Singson Road shall be used as the entrance route from A. Abellana St. going to V. Rama Ave.

Motorists, drivers, and other road users are advised to follow the traffic signs installed on the re-routing area.

VSMMC sends more docs to upland brgys

By Razel V. Cuizon

TO provide more accessible health services to people in upland areas, the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) has provided additional doctors to Guba Community Hospital.

The doctors, who are under the Department of Family and Community Medicine of VSMMC, are tasked to entertain health cases in the out-patient department of the Cebu City Government-operated hospital in Guba.

Rep. Raul del Mar (Cebu City, north) worked on the project after seeing the need to provide immediate medical treatment for mountain barangay residents.

“We need all the help for complete medical services in Guba especially in times of emergency cases where time is of the essence,” del Mar said.

Half an hour

At present, when there are emergency cases in the mountain barangays, residents have to run to the nearest hospital, which is the North General Hospital.

Residents in Barangay Lusaran, one of the farthest upland villages in the north, need at least half an hour to travel to the hospital.

Del Mar signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with VSMMC, which was represented by Dr. Gerardo Aquino, the hospital’s chief.

VSMMC started providing out-patient medical services in the area last Thursday.

Diagnose

Under the MOA, on-duty doctors will perform physical examination on patients, diagnose their condition and provide direct counseling for a treatment plan.

They will also prescribe medication, perform minor surgeries and arrange for referrals for patients requiring services not offered there.

Advantageous

The program is advantageous on their part, Aquino said, since it will help decongest VSMMC.

“It will lessen the number of our patients because it’s like you’re already bringing the services there,” he said.

Mayor Tomas Osmeña thanked del Mar for the program.

He said he wants more people to be involved in Guba since during the previous years, about P12 million for medicines for Guba was not spent.

Sinulog wins 'Best Festival' in Philippines

(Sunnex)

THE Sinulog festival in Cebu City wins "Best Festival In the Philippines" during the 1st Choose Philippines Award held at Dolphy's Theater in ABS-CBN Compound in Quezon City.

Sinulog Foundation Inc. Executive Director Ricky Ballesteros said in his Facebook account that he shares the award with all the Cebuanos.

Other nominees were Kadayawan Festival of Davao City, Panagbenga Festival of Baguio City, Pahiyas Festival of Quezon Province, and Masskara Festival of Bacolod City.

Know more about Sinulog here

3 Cebu grads land in LET Top 10

(PNA), LAP/EB/EBP

CEBU CITY (PNA) -- Three graduates from Cebu, including two from a state college, landed in the Top 10 in the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) held on November 28.

Ian Christian Cosido, a summa cum laude graduate, placed fourth with a rating of 89.2 while Flordeliz Joy Pansag placed ninth with a rating of 88.20 percent.

Both graduated from the Cebu Normal University (CNU) in Cebu City.

Javee Cose Armamento, a graduate of the University of San Carlos (USC), also in Cebu City, placed eighth with a rating of 88.4 percent.

CNU’s College of Education dean Dr. Filomena Dayagbil said she was happy with the results.

She said they expected it since they’ve produced several topnotchers over the years.

“It’s an affirmation and we are so proud. It is normal for us to produce topnotchers,” she said.

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