Cebu City News January 2018

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View of Cebu City from the bay
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Aerial View of Cebu City
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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

Cash-rich SM2SM Run 8 launched

By Glen Dale Rosal

More than P1-Million worth of cash prizes will be given away in the upcoming SM2SM Run 8 this February 18.

This was announced in a press conference on Wednesday at the SM City Cebu that was attended by SM Prime Holdings Inc. Vice President Marissa Fernan, SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Markerting Jenjen Amigo, and race director Joel Baring.

The footrace starts and ends at the SM City Cebu and will feature 21k, 12k, 8k and 4k distances.

PH team tests Cebu’s best bowlers

(RSC)

NATIONAL team members started to arrive in Cebu for the 19th Bowlingplex Tenpin Association (BTA-Cebu) Sinulog Open National Tournament at the Gaisano Bowlingplex in Banilad, Cebu City.

The national players are expected to spice up the Masters’ event this year, and they want nothing less than the title.

National team member Kevin Cu said in an interview last Tuesday night that he’s always excited to play in Cebu.

“Of course, I want to be the champion,” said Cu when asked about his target for this tournament. “It will be a tough field because my teammates in the national team will be here, the national youth bowlers and also some former national team members.”

The 25-year-old Cu of PBAP-Bowlmart said that when he competes here, he plays all-out, knowing that there are formidable players who live in Cebu.

Cebuano Jomar Jumapao, also a member of the national team, will be back in the Sinulog Open National Tournament for the first time since 2012.

“I’m excited to be back playing here in my hometown,” said the 2009 Sinulog Open champion. “I’m hungry for another championship in this event, but I know there are a lot of strong contenders and it’s anybody’s game.”

Jumapao, 27, is now on his fourth year in the national team and is already based in Manila.

Jumapao said that the biggest competitions lined up for the national team this year are the Asian Games, World Men’s Championship and the Asian Bowling Championships.

For defending champion Aui Padawan, the three-week stint in Manila will be his driving force in his attempt to defend his title. Padawan recently tried out for the national team but failed to make the cut.

“In a way, the tryout was a confidence-booster for me. I get to play with them (national players) again, but this time it’s on my homecourt and I’m more familiar with the lanes,” said the 23-year-old Padawan.

“I was in Manila for three weeks; tried out for the national team and also I practiced there,” said Padawan, who sees patience in throws and consistency in good quality shots as the key in winning.

The other member of the national team who is in town already is Kenzo Umali.

BTA-Cebu president Bel Suelto Jr. said that the other players are still coming, including Bowling World Cup champion Krizziah Lyn Tabora. The final line-up of visiting players will be finalized today.

Meanwhile, in the ongoing qualifiers, Arthur Tapaya (1,373) leads the Masters’ Open and Suelto (1,270) leads the Masters’ Seniors as of Tuesday night.

ADB reviews Cebu City’s waste management system

By Odessa O. Leyson (FPL, The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — A consultant of Asian Development Bank is currently conducting assessment of the garbage management system of Cebu City.

Nida Cabrera, head of the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office, said the result will be used to come up a better system.

Cabrera said that ADB consultant Mott MacDonald has already started gathering data about the city’s generation of garbage and how it is being managed.

“Unya karon nagsugod na sila og kuha og data. Nagreview na sila sa atong data in terms og giunsa nato pagmanage atong basura,” she said.

The consultant will assess how best to provide solid waste management services to the population of the city.

Cabrera said MacDonald’s team will do a pre-feasibility study in Cebu City for three months. After the pre-feasibility study, a final study will be conducted within the period of six months.

The ADB earlier granted the city government’s request to fund the P40 million needed for the feasibility study of a new solid waste management system through public-private partnership program.

Cabrera said the advantage of having this study is that the city government will be guided on how to effectively manage the gabage in the absence of an operational landfill.

“Usa gyud we will be guided unsaon pag-manage ang basura kay problema man gyud ni. One of the biggest issues sa siyudad kay karon man ato giatubang,” she said.

She said the consultant had already talked with the mayor on the matter. In fact, Mayor Tomas Osmeña wants MacDonald to recommend a reliable and sustainable technology for the city.

Osmeña said he has two requirements that must be considered — reliability and affordability.

“The highest criteria is reliability, it’s another way of saying I don’t want to experiment with the latest style because it might not work…So reliability is not the most advance system but the most reliable system that we can work on,” he said.

Cabrera said MacDonald will help the city’s technical team in reviewing the at least 17 proposals for the establishment of waste-to-energy facility at the Inayawan landfill.

The proponents include Best Trade Company, Metro Pacific of Pangilinan Group, New Sky, NECO, JFA from Yokohama, and Western Power, among others.

The establishment of WTE facility at the controversial landfill was part of the rehabilitation plan of the city government.

Seminary formators in Cebu City to tackle ways to improve priesthood

By Ador Vincent S. Mayol (Senior Reporter, Cebu Daily News)

CEBU CITY — At least 400 seminary formators in the Philippines gathered in Cebu City to discuss the implementation of new guidelines to improve the quality of priests in response to new and emerging challenges of modern society.

Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, chair of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines’ (CBCP) Episcopal Commission on Seminaries, said professors in various seminaries in the country had to sit down and come up with a draft on how they would carry out the updated standards of seminary formation released by the Vatican in 2016.

“Our concern is the formation of future priests. As disciples of the Lord, we never stop learning. We should nurture and maximize the gift of priestly vocation,” he said in a press conference shortly after the Mass to welcome participants of the five-day conference that started on Monday, Jan. 22, at the IC3 Convention Center.

Among those who attended the gathering were Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia, the Papal Nuncio to the Philippines; Archbishop Jorge Carlos Patron Wong, the secretary of the Vatican’s Congregation of the Clergy; and Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma.

Also present were about 30 bishops led by Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles, president of the CBCP, and at least 400 seminary formators.

Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle is expected to join the conference in the coming days.

On Dec. 8, 2016, the Vatican’s Congregation of the Clergy issued a document, entitled “Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacerdotalis” or “The Gift of Priestly Vocation,” an updated instrument for the formation of priests.

Alminaza said the five-day convention in Cebu City was meant to come up with a policy that it more relevant and applicable in the Philippines.

“We hope to generate important materials that will become part of the inculturization of the guidelines for priestly vocation. We share our best practices and important lessons we learn. Please pray that we will be guided and that this coming together will not be in vain but will instead lead to the renewal of society,” he explained.

Archbishop Wong, for his part, said Pope Francis was informed about the gathering in Cebu.

“The Church of the Philippines and the people of this country are in the heart of the Holy Father. He hopes for the growth of priestly vocation. He wants to have priests who are pastors and shepherds who are formed in the humanity and heart of Jesus,” he said.

“We want to give future priests integral formation, not just intellectually and academically, but also improve the human and spiritual dimension because they are the future of the Church and the country. We want the best in them because they will multiply the gifts of God,” he added.

OFWs utilize the internet to hear Sinulog Masses

By May B. Miasco, Kristine Porpayas & Jheska Mhae Buton(The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — The weeklong celebration of the highly-anticipated feast honoring Sr. Santo Niño or the Holy Child Jesus extends beyond the islands of Cebu.

Cebu-born devotees who work and stay outside the country also take part in the festivity, including the religious activities, despite the distance that separates them from the celebration of faith and devotion.

Nichelle Lauron, who works in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and 47-year-old Maria Chona Labrada, who resides in the United States, took advantage of the modernized means of airing the novena Masses through Facebook live.

Lauron, from Barangay Inayawan, Cebu City, always logs online to view the live Masses celebrated for the nine-day novena of Santo Niño that started last January 11.

She participated with the Eucharistic celebration as she faces the altar while watching the online video completing the entire liturgical rites.

"Mokanta ko anang gozos makahilak gud ko. Ramdam kaayo nako si baby Niño bisag naa ko diri tungod kay makakita ko sa Misa ug lipay kaayo ko kay feeling nako naa ra ko diha nagsimba," she said.

The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu community, which is spearheading the annual feast, just introduced the live streaming via Facebook live.

She shared even her local employer, who is a Catholic too, joined her once in hearing the Mass through the live video.

She said she is a self-professed devotee of the Santo Niño, owing this from the deep religiosity her parents had taught her and to her siblings.

With her deep faith to the Holy Child, Lauron has been saying her prayers and one got answered that is her entry to work abroad that has been her long-time appeal.

What is more disheartening to her is that the feast day and the birthday of her mother fell on the same date yesterday. The feast is annually observed every third Sunday of January.

For Labrada, living in other country with different environment and different culture, one may lose in touch with his or her faith and beliefs as liturgical celebrations are also different compared to Masses here in Cebu.

“Our Mass here in America is more modern and is not as spiritual as the one you have there. Here in America, we don’t have any statue in any house as far as I knew. And the churches here are different too. Masses are not as solemn as we have in the Philippines,” she wrote in an online message conveyed to The FREEMAN.

She, too, professed that she was a devotee to Santo Niño as she was born and raised in Barangay Bulacao Pardo, Cebu City to parents who were baptized and practicing Catholics.

She was just 22 years old when she moved to the USA for further studies. She is now teaching there and now has three kids born in America.

She said she first got married for 20 years but to a man who did not believe in Jesus. She felt her husband was unhelpful of her faith and slowly she is losing grip of it.

Both got divorced and until she met another man who shares the same faith she used to have.

“He was the one who brought me back to our culture and to Santo Niño in Cebu where I came from and where all my family is a native of,” she said.

Over 3,000 devotees from the Province of Cebu occupied the Devotee City for this year's Fiesta Señor.

Fidel Magno, head of the Department of Manpower Development and Placement and in-charge of the registration, said a total of 3,131 individuals stayed in the Devotee City.

"Years back, daghan gyud kayos tanan. Last year, mga around 3,000, karon balik na sad og daghan," Magno told The FREEMAN.

Seaplane service at SRP starts operation

By Jean Marvette A. Demecillo (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — Seaplane operator Air Juan has launched its first seaplane services in Cebu City yesterday with a vow to let foreign and local tourists experience a convenient inter-island trips.

During the launching ceremony, Mayor Tomas Osmeña congratulated and welcomed the development as the services would help promote the city’s tourism industry as well as the travel destinations.

“This is very convenient and this service will make our SRP (South Road Properties) much more competitive,” he said.

The seaplane’s floating dock is located at the coastal area of Il Corso, a Filinvest Inc. property.

Osmeña believed that the services will further be expanded once the 8.25-kilometer Cebu-Cordova Bridge will be completed three years from now.

He also mentioned the upcoming P18-billion investment at SRP where a hotel, casino, and other world-class facilities will be developed. Freeman ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch:

“To ride a seaplane is more expensive than the commercial planes but if you think of it, from SRP to Panglao, it will only take 20 minutes,” he added.

Several people have tried the services yesterday with a fare of P1,000 for a 10 to 15-minute ride.

As of now, Air Juan President John Gutierrez said they will cater destinations from SRP to Malapascua Island, Sumilon Island, Kalanggaman Island, Gigantes, Lakawon, Camotes, Panglao, and Anda in Bohol in the first quarter of the year.

“We are not a budget airline. As a matter of fact, we are the most expensive out there but we are the most convenient,” he said.

Gutierrez said he is targeting to have a full-blown operation in March this year. But he said people can now book a flight and fly with Air Juan after the launching.

He admitted that the fare rates are relatively expensive as seaplane services would range between P2,000 to P4,000 per seat for the one-way travel.

“With seaplane, it’s a little more expensive again because of the overhead that we have. There are more expensive equipment and also, all our pilots are mostly expats,” he said.

Gutierrez said it is a scheduled carrier which can be booked online.

He vowed to expand its operations to Higantes Island, Catbalogan City, among other pristine locations that are not yet serviced.

The Department of Tourism has accredited Air Juan as a tourist transport provider.

The company, which claimed to be the biggest seaplane operator in Southeast Asia, is also licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and Civil Aeronautics Board.

CCTO implements rerouting for today's procession

By Odessa O. Leyson (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO is reminding the public that there will be road closures and rerouting today to accommodate the solemn procession of the Sto. Niño.

CCTO operation's head Francisco "Isko" Ouano told The FREEMAN they will be closing the roads near the Sto. Niño Church at 10 a.m.

"Once kung magsugod na maghinay-hinay sad ta og close sa may Sanciangko, Rotunda and Fuente Osmeña, " he said.

The route of the solemn procession is from Basilica del Sto. Niño, then to Fuente Rotunda, right turn to General Maxilom Avenue, right turn to Imus New Road, left turn to M.J. Cuenco Avenue, right turn to F. Urdaneta Street, left turn to P. Burgos Street, right turn to Osmeña Boulevard, and then back to Basilica del Sto. Niño.

The procession will begin at 1 p.m. today.

Public utility jeepneys (PUJs) coming from Bulacao, Pardo and Basak passing along N. Bacalso Avenue shall follow the entire stretch, then make a right turn to V. Rama Extension, left turn to Tres de Abril Street, right turn to Lakandula Street, left turn to C. Padilla Street, right turn to Panganiban Street, right turn to Tupas Street, right turn to Tres de Abril Street, left turn to N. Bacalso Avenue, then back to their point of origin. Freeman ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch:

PUJs coming from Bulacao, Pardo, Alumnos, Inayawan and Basak passing along C. Padilla Street shall turn right to Carlock Street, left turn to Tupas Street, left turn to T. Abella Street, right turn to C. Padilla Street, right turn to Lakandula Street, right turn to Tupas Street, right turn to T. Abella Street, left turn to C. Padilla Street, and to their point of origin.

Jeepneys from Banawa, Capitol, Guadalupe, and Oprra passing along Osmeña Boulevard shall go straight along Osmeña Boulevard, then make a right turn to J. Llorente Street, right turn to Don Mariano Cui Street, then back to their usual route to their point of origin.

Further, jeepneys from Banawa, and Guadalupe, passing V. Rama Avenue, and B. Rodriguez Street shall turn right to Katipunan Street, left turn to A. Lopez Street, follow on to Tres de Abril Street, and make a left turn to N. Bacalso Avenue. Those with route numbers 06A and 06G shall then turn left to V. Rama Avenue, to their usual route.

PUJs coming from Lahug, Apas and Plaza Housing passing along N. Escario Street shall go on to N. Escario Street, then make a left turn to Juana Osmeña Street, right turn to J. Llorente Street, right turn to Osmeña Boulevard, then turn right to N. Escario Street and vice versa.

For those coming from Lahug, Apas and Plaza Housing passing along Gorordo Avenue shall go on to Gorordo Avenue then make a left turn to Cardinal Rosales Avenue, then make a U-turn at C. Rosales Avenue, right turn to Gorordo Avenue and back to their point of origin.

All jeepneys coming from Talamban and Pit-os upon reaching Ayala, while traversing along Gorordo Avenue will turn left to Cardinal Rosales Avenue, back to Ayala, to their usual route, then vice versa.

PUJs coming from Mabolo including route number 03B while traversing along Juan Luna Avenue shall go straight then turn right to A. Soriano Avenue, left turn to Gen. Maxilom Extension, right turn to D. Gaisano Street, left turn to T. Padilla Street, left turn to S. Osmeña Avenue, left turn to Gen. Maxilom Extension, right turn to J.C. Veyra Street, left turn to Juan Luna Avenue, to their usual route, then to their point of origin.

Jeepneys coming from Mandaue City passing along M.J. Cuenco Avenue while traversing along Cebu North Road shall turn left to Juan Luna Avenue, right turn to A. Soriano Avenue, left turn to Gen. Maxilom Extension right turn to D. Gaisano Street, left turn to T. Padilla Street, left turn to S. Osmeña Avenue, left turn to Gen. Maxilom Extension, right turn to A. Soriano Avenue, to their usual route, and then back to their point of origin.

All trucks, vans, trailers and other motor vehicles coming from the south going to SM City or to the northern areas shall pass through the South Road Properties (SRP) and then to Cebu South Coastal Road passing the tunnel, to Serging Osmeña Boulevard and then on to the North Reclamation Area.

All motor vehicles coming from Tabunok in Talisay City, Minglanilla, Naga City, San Fernando and Carcar who wishes to go the North Reclamation Area are advised to pass through the SRP Coastal Road.

Motor vehicles are also advised to follow the existing rerouting plan implemented with the beginning of the construction of the underpass along N. Bacalso Avenue.

Ouano said all riding public shall observe and follow the traffic signs installed along the re-routing areas to minimize traffic congestion.

He said private car owners are encouraged to park at designated parking areas so that their vehicles will not be clamped.

Today, Ouano is deploying at least 200 traffic enforcers outside the solemn procession route to man the traffic. There are also six mobile patrols that will be roaming around to monitor the traffic situation.

Devotee City opens today

By Teresa R. Tan, USC Intern (/MBG, The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — Devotees of the Señor Sto. Niño who are from far places and have no place to stay in Cebu City can now avail of free accommodation at the Devotee City which opens today.

It has been the practice of the city to establish a Devotee City to give free accommodation to pilgrims from neighboring provinces since 1995.

The city will prioritize those devotees who are living beyond Danao City in the north, Carcar City in the south, and other provinces outside Cebu.

Pilgrims who arrived before today’s launching were already accommodated.

Among them is Albing Gastador, a native of Bogo City.

Gastador, now in her 60s, has been a devotee of Señor Sto. Niño since highschool. Freeman ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch:

“Bisag walay kwarta, maningkamot gyud ko nga makabiyahe para makapanagkot,”said Gastador.

To date, her yearly panata has become a family tradition.

Gastador said her devotion to the Holy Child Jesus was even strengthened after her daughter was almost hit with a falling debris while saving their mini Sto. Niño image when the super typhoon Yolanda hit the northern part of Cebu.

She said Señor Sto. Niño has always helped in their daily endeavors. It was also through the help of the ‘miraculous’ Child Jesus that her daughter was healed from asthma, said Gastador.

“Gipangaliya gyud na nako nga hatagan og baskog na lawas ako anak, kaluoy sa Diyos karun uban na siya nako magpasalamat,” said Gastador.

To cover their expenses, they have been selling hats, bottled waters and candles every Sinulog.

Devotee City located at the back of Campania Maritima can accommodate up to 3,000 pilgrims.

The city government planned to put 120 container vans but due to the limited space, there are only 88 vans in the area now.

The amenities include free water, electricity, portable toilets, shower, sink and a public WIFI.

According to Devotee City 2018 chairman Engr. Roberto Cabarrubias, there will also be medics on stand-by to provide medicines and respond to emergencies, volunteer doctors, and Women’s desk to provide security.

A nightly entertainment, free food and drinks will also be provided by sponsors.

Cabarrubias advised those who want to register to bring IDs and bus, boat or plane ticket since registration is on a first come, first serve basis.

He also reminded the devotees not to bring any forms of liquors and sharp materials within the vicinity.

The devotees will be allowed to stay in the Devotee City until Monday morning, said Cabarrubias.

Cebu City then and now is grand finale theme

By Jean Marvette A. Demecillo, Odessa O. Leyson (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — This year’s Sinulog grand finale will be a dance drama musical dubbed as “Kita sa Sugbo” depicting how Cebu started and how it is today, a way of reminding the people of how the highly urbanized area evolved from Spanish colonization.

“This year, we have this concept that is very Cebuano. We start with a lola (grandmother) with young kids. She opens a book and tells a story of what was Cebu before, the old times of Cebu,” Victor Cuenco, choreographer told The FREEMAN.

He said after the dramatization, the performers will be showing how the City of Cebu looks like at present.

To effectively present the Cebu City now, they will be exhibiting the three major projects of the city government. These are the Cebu-Bus Rapid Transit, Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway and the Call Center City.

Cuenco said they came up with the idea after Sinulog Executive Committee chairman Councilor David Tumulak suggested to them to have a concept that showcases the ongoing projects of the city.

Cuenco said the last part of the grand finale performance would be a thanksgiving to Señor Santo Niño for making the city a progressive place. Freeman ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch:

Around 260 performers are tapped for the grand finale which will run for about 25 minutes.

Cuenco said the singers will be performing live Cebu’s Pop Music.A fireworks display will cap the Sinulog Grand Parade.

Cuenco said the grand finale is estimated to cost more than P 300, 000.

Meanwhile, minor changes will be implemented for the smooth flow of the 38th Sinulog Grand Parade on Sunday.

Tumulak, also the chairman of Sinulog Foundation Inc. executive committee, said the mass at the sports complex will be moved from the original schedule of 7 a.m. to 8 a.m.

Tumulak, however, stressed that there is no threat to security during the Sinulog celebration as of press time.

He revealed the National Telecommunications Commission is ready to implement the cellular phone signal shutdown if needed and if asked by the police.

There are only 30 contingents who will perform on Sunday.

Tumulak said there are two barangays that backed out due to budget constraints such as Lahug Cultural Dance Troupe and Barangay Cogon Pardo –Barangay mayor’s Office.

He said the organizer is hoping to start the grand parade at 9:30 a.m. and to finish at 4:30 p.m.

There are 45 entries for the float category, 25 entries for higante categories, and eight entries for puppeteers category.

He also reminded the public that barangay environmental officers will be going around to apprehend those who will be caught throwing their garbage anywhere.

Ten local government units in Cebu province will send their emergency responders to assist during the Sinulog.

Starting yesterday, the local disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) responders of Liloan were deployed at the Devotee City.

The other teams will come for the procession and grand parade while there will be teams on standby in case there are devotees who will need medical attention. - Lorraine MitziAmbrad and Ashlee Love Marzon

Unique fun run in Cebu on March 25

By Glendale G. Rosal

A traditional garment worn in various countries in south Asia will be highlighted in an upcoming running event in Cebu.

The Lunghi Run, slated March 25 starting at the Vibo Place in Escario Street in Cebu City, features the lunghi garment—also spelled as lungi— that is similar to a sarong which is wrapped around the waist and extending to the ankles and worn in countries such as India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Thailand.

The event is organized by Lunghi Runners-Singapore spearheaded by Ali Akbar, the TAD Runners of Willie Estepa and Hello Kitty Runner-Cebu of Annie Penaroya. ADVERTISEMENT

Akbar, who first organized the run in 2013 in Singapore, started the Lunghi Run because he wanted to promote friendship and respect among races with the proceeds going to a charity. Akbar also finds running in a lunghi comfortable.

“We used this concept to raise awareness about unity. That we are all humans regardless of religion and race,” said Akbar in a press launching last Monday evening at the Cebu Grand Hotel.

Proceeds of the run will go to the running grassroots program of JPD of coach John Philip Dueñas and Cebu marathon Olympian and 2017 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games gold medalist Mary Joy Tabal.

“This is not just an ordinary run. You run for fun, you run for fitness, or you run with different goals, but with this event, you are not only running, but you are helping kids to reach their goals, to reach their dreams,” said Tabal.

The running event features 12-kilometer and 6k distances. Registration fee is P650 for the 12k distance and P550 for the 6k.

“I am very grateful that the Lunghi Run has chosen our grassroots program to be their beneficiary as this will be a big help in further training the kids as well as in identifying their potential,” said Dueñas.

Apart from the race singlet, participants will also get a lunghi with different patterns and designs. A waist pouch will be given to the first 200 registrants in the 12k or until January 30, whichever comes first.

“I have not tried wearing lunghi (while running) but I am planning to try one and record it on video so that everyone can see how it is wearing lunghi while running. I think it’s going to be fun wearing one while running,” Tabal said.

Since the event is a fun run, no winners will be declared. However, finishers will get a finishers medal made in Singapore.

Interested participants can call Penaroya at 0925-558-8600 or Estepa at 0933-329-5308 or send a message to the Lunghi Run Cebu Facebook page.

Cebu City council proposes: Bike lanes in new roads

By Jean Marvette A. Demecillo (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — All new or proposed expansions of roads and bridges in Cebu City will soon have bike lanes if the proposed legislation will be approved.

City Councilor Eugenio Gabuya, Jr. proposed to mandate the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to integrate bike lanes in the planning, design, and construction or expansion of bridges and roads in the city.

“The ordinance aims to serve as springboard to more sustainable environmental solutions to prevent Cebu City from further deterioration,” reads a portion of the measure.

Gabuya said there is a need to improve the welfare of all pedestrians, cyclists and other non-motorized commuters.

The proposed legislation also seeks to encourage the residents of the city to use a bicycle as an alternative mode of transportation and to reduce traffic weaving.

Gabuya defined ‘bike lane’ as a part of the road which is for the exclusive use of people riding bicycles. Freeman ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch:

“It shall be made of a bike-friendly material, separated by a physical barrier and be clearly identified with signs and or pavement markings or reflectorized painted lanes,” he said, emphasizing that motor vehicles will not be allowed to use the bike lanes.

Under Section 7 of the proposed ordinance, the DPWH is asked to implement the ordinance for national roads, while the city’s Department of Engineering and Public Works and City Planning Office will enforce the ordinance for city’s roads.

During the public hearing on January 9, the proponent of the 8.5-kilometer Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) assured members of the Cebu City Council that there is a bike lane as well as lanes for the pedestrian.

Engineer Allan Alfon, president of Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway Corp (CCLEC), said the P22.6 billion project will integrate a 1.7-meter-wide lane for bikers and cyclists and another 1.7-meter-wide lane for pedestrians and joggers.

Alfon said the bridge will have two lanes in each direction and will feature the main navigation span bridge, along with viaduct approach bridges, a causeway, roadway and toll facilities.

He also announced that the CCLEC has given the Notice to Proceed last January 8 to start the Design and Build Contract to Cebu Link Joint Venture (CLJV), a joint venture of Spain-based ACCIONA Construccion SA, and Philippines-based First Balfour Inc. and D. M. Consunji Inc.

City Administrator Nigel Paul Villarete, an urban planner and bike enthusiast, gave a 10-page personal comment and recommendations on the proposed legislation.

Villarete suggested that the proposed ordinance be seen as a transport ordinance with secondary benefits to health and ecology.

“While it can be argued that it does not matter whether the policy for Bike Lanes are based on a Transport Policy or a Health Policy or an Environmental Policy, the correct and appropriate policy direction would impact tremendously the kind of concept, program, plans, and projects that the city will pursue and execute in the future,” he said.

He said that the city already has an existing City Ordinance No. 2408 also known as “An Ordinance Providing for Shared Priority Bike Lanes in Designated Roads in Cebu City, Establishing Appropriate Traffic Rules and Regulations and providing funds and penalties for violations thereof.”

Villarete said road sharing is only applicable to roads with 10 lanes, stressing that he wanted to have protected bike lanes to provide safety for bikers.

With this, he said he is asking the City Council to adopt a protected bike lane concept policy instead of road-sharing.

“The Bike Lane Ordinance should be implemented under the right policy, with sound economic viability, and with environmentally sustainable transport in mind,” he added.

Bathalad Cebu sets annual convention on Jan. 28

(SunStar Cebu)

THE Bathalan-ong Halad sa Dagang (Bathalad) Cebu, a group of creative writers, will hold its annual convention on Jan. 28 at Handuraw Pizza Cafe in White Gold Complex, North Reclamation Area, Cebu City, from 1 to 5 p.m.

Cheeno Borden, Palanca awardee and Bathlad Cebu official, will give a lecture on poetry.

The highlights of the convention include the awarding ceremonies of “Bathalad Sugbo Tigi sa Sinuwatay 2017,” election of new officers and poetry reading as tribute to the late poet Melchor Yburan, who was the first writer inducted in 1989 Bathalad Cebu Hall of Fame for poetry.

Dr. Melquiadito M. Allego, Bathalad founder who is now living in the United States, will join in the convention, give the prizes to the winning writers and deliver a speech.

The sponsors of this literary event are Handuraw Pizza White Gold for the venue and, for the literary writing contests, Dr. Mel Allego and wife Thelma (poetry), Dr. Juvenal Jabil (short story), Dr. Aurorita Lariosa-Dayon with Atty. Arielita Lariosa-Lagman (one-act play) and Evalinda Lariosa Despo (essay). The sponsors of the contests are living abroad, particularly in the United States and Singapore.

The literary writing contest was organized by the council of past presidents of Bathalad Cebu. They are Ernesto D. Lariosa (chairman-internal), Vicente Bandillo (chairman-external), Lamberto Ceballos (vice chairman) and Rogelio Pono, Mike Obenieta, Antonio Allego, Josua Cabrera, Goddy Ypon, Genica Mijares and Jeremiah Bondoc (members).

The theme of the convention is “Way Kutas nga Pagpadayon sa Kalambuan sa Katitikang Sugbuanon.”

Bathalad Cebu’s current officials are Rolando R. Morallo, president; Karla Quimsing, vice president; Kevin A. Lagunda, secretary; Romeo Nicolas Bonsocan, treasurer; Richellet Chan, auditor; Roehl Joseph Dazo and CD “Cheeno” Borden, information officers.

All members of Bathalad Cebu are invited to join the annual convention and the event is open to non-members who are interested in Cebuano literature.

SKY, Star Media Group bring Sinulog 2018 online

(The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — Leading cable and broadband provider SKY has partnered with The Philippine Star Media Group in bringing the 2018 Sinulog Festival to the entire nation and to Filipinos around the world.

The partnership was signed last January 10, 2018 at the Star Media Group building in Cebu City.

In attendance were SKY Cebu’s General Manager Kino Sarabosing, The Freeman General Manager Melandro Mendoza, and The Freeman Editor-in-chief Archie Modequillo.

The Star Media Group’s regional news groups, The Freeman and Banat News, will host SKY’s official YouTube page coverage of the annual festival on its digital platforms and will supplement SKY’s coverage with the latest and most comprehensive news updates.

Coverage will also be mirrored in the Star Media Group’s official site, philstar.com.

SKY’s official YouTube coverage includes the Sinulog Festival Queen Coronation Night on January 19 at 6 p.m., the Sinulog Grand Parade on January 21 at 7 a.m., and the Sinulog Awarding Ceremony on January 22 at 1 p.m. Freeman ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch:

Meanwhile, SKY subscribers in Mega Manila can watch the live coverage of the events on channel 211 (SD) and 243 (HD), while subscribers in Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, Baguio, Davao, General Santos, and Dumaguete can watch on channel 64 (SD) and 702 (HD).

SKYdirect subscribers may also view it on channel 46. It may also be viewed through SKY on Demand.

More information about the live coverage can be found at www.myksy.com.ph/sinulog.

Devotee City opens January 19

By Odessa O. Leyson (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — The Devotee City intended for Señor Sto. Niño pilgrims coming from other provinces and municipalities will officially open on January 19.

Department of Public Services (DPS) Head Roberto Cabarrubias told reporters that his personnel started putting up the other night at least 100 container vans which will serve as temporary shelter for the pilgrims who are not from the city.

"Pag 8 o'clock sa gabii until 3 sa buntag, ilahang gi-install ang container vans, ilaha sab ni gilimpyohan para ma-stayhan sa mga taw," he said.

They have requested 120 container vans from the 2GO cargo firm, however, only 100 were available for occupancy.

The capacity of all the available container vans is 2,000 individuals.

With this, Cabarrubias said the city government will be preparing at least seven additional tents to those who will not be accommodated in the container vans. Freeman ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch:

He added that the DPS is eyeing to design each container van as double deck so that they can accommodate more people.

Cabarrubias said they are expecting that more numbers of pilgrims will be sheltered at the Devotee City.

"Nag-expect ta nga modaghan ron kay last year 2,800 man to, unya naa baya toy bagyo maong wala kaayo nidagsa ang uban. So, karon okay raman basin daghan," he said.

Sinulog 2018 goes high-tech with mobile app

By Luel Galarpe (PNA)

CEBU CITY -- Sinulog 2018 is reaching out to digital-savvy millennials and the younger Generation Z with the launch of a mobile companion for devotees and revelers.

“Just search and download ‘Sinulog 2018’ in Google Play or the App Store and install the app in your smartphones,” said Cebu City Councilor and Sinulog 2018 Executive Committee chairman Dave Tumulak on Friday.

“This is your must-have digital pal or buddy who will help you move around the country’s grandest celebration -- Cebu’s Sinulog Festival 2018.”

“Mayor Tommy Osmeña pushed this during a Sinulog Foundation board meeting last December. He shared his vision of reaching out and making Sinulog 2018 relevant to new generations of digital Cebuanos. With the millennials growing up, we are also welcoming our Generation Z,” Tumulak added.

“Thus, you might have already noticed our sleeker Sinulog Foundation website. Our Facebook page has grown exponentially, thanks to our social media team. We are coordinating 24/7 with the social media teams of the Cebu Provincial Capitol and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). We also reached out to Cebu’s blogging community,” the city dad added.

The Sinulog 2018 app was scheduled to be launched in simple ceremonies during the opening program of “Kalingawan sa Plaza” at Plaza Independencia Friday night.

According to Tumulak, the mobile app will help you plot your Sinulog route and schedule amid the myriad of religious-cultural activities every day during the Sinulog Festival week.

Through the app, one can access basic information about the various Sinulog activities and specifics like the parade contingents, maps of the official route, and where to party.

News about important announcements and developments as it happens can also be accessed through the app and the app user can immediately share what’s happening with friends and relatives here and abroad via social media.

Lastly, app users can vote for their favorite Festival Queen 2018 candidate through the “Festival Queen App Users’ Choice.”

The app description in Google Play Store says: “The Sinulog 2018 app provides you with the information you need to enjoy a festival that celebrates the birth of Christianity in Southeast Asia. The Festival combines both East and West as it celebrates a native dance of worship called the Sinulog which is dedicated to Señor Sto. Niño, the Holy Child Jesus of the Christian world.”

P1.3 million earmarked for ‘Devotee City’

By Jean Marvette A. Demecillo (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City government has earmarked P1.3 million to set up the Devotee City at the Compania Maritima compound.

City Councilor Eugenio Gabuya, Jr., deputy mayor for public services, said the city is now preparing the 2,000-square meter area at the back of the Senior Citizen’s Park in Barangay Ermita, across the City Hall, where the 120 container vans will be placed.

“We are hoping to install all the vans within the week to accommodate our pilgrims kay mag-start na ang novena masses,” he told The FREEMAN.

He said the city in coordination with the Cebu provincial government will continue accommodating the devotees from far-flung provinces who want to pay homage to the Holy Child on His feast day.

Gabuya said the 120 container vans will cater to at least 3,000 pilgrims for free.

To those who want to avail of free accommodation, he said, should present a bus or boat ticket as proof for the registration.

Once they have registered, the pilgrims would be given an identification card and assigned to a container van where they could stay.

Each container van can accommodate between 30 to 50 people.

The city government will provide basic services, which include portable toilets, dirty kitchen, shower rooms, water and electricity, among others.

The city government has been setting up the Devotee City since 1995.

The city will prioritize those devotees who are living beyond Danao City in the north, Carcar City in the south, and from other provinces.

“Atong gi-transfer sa luyo sa Senior Citizen’s Park kay ang sauna nga lugar sa Compania Maritima daghan naman mga stores nag open bati pud kon atong i-block ilang view,” Gabuya said.

He said the city will start accepting devotees next week, but those who will arrive this week will still be accommodated. The container vans, on the other hand, are expected to arrive today or tomorrow.

Gabuya said the launching of the Devotee City is scheduled for January 19 with a Mass at 4 p.m. at the Compania Maritima compound.

All set for 453rd Fiesta Señor

By Justin K. Vestil (SunStar Cebu)

THE 453rd Fiesta Señor will formally kick off at dawn tomorrow with a penitential walk for Jesus.

Starting at 4 a.m. Thursday, devotees will march the two-kilometer route from the Fuente Osmeña circle to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.

The dawn procession and the mass at 6 a.m. will mark the first day of the celebration of the Fiesta Señor and the nine-day novenas.

The opening mass after the procession will be led by Fr. Pacifico “Jun” Nohara, the rector of the Basilica and overall chairman of this year’s fiesta celebration.

In an interview, Nohara said they are now 100 percent ready for the nine-day novena masses.

He advised the faithful to follow the security and safety precautions being placed by the organizers to avoid any trouble inside the Basilica.

Prohibited items such as balloons will be strictly checked by security guards, Nohara said.

“Plastado na gyud tanan,” (Everything is in place) Nohara added.

For devotees who will be attending the opening salvo tomorrow, fiesta organizers said the main entrance of the Basilica at Osmeña Boulevard will only be used as a common exit.

Entrance gates towards the Basilica are located at D. Jakosalem and Burgos Streets; and near the Magellan’s Cross.

Cebu City boosts effort vs street dwellers

By Odessa O. Leyson (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — As the Sinulog Festival draws near, Cebu City’s Department of Social Welfare Services (DSWS) has intensified its daily rescue operation of street dwellers in the city.

“Mahulog nga double time ta kay sobra kadaghan ron ang street dwellers dinhi tungod sa Sinulog kay daghan man taw nga naa diri, makapangayo sila,” DSWS chairperson Lea Japson told reporters yesterday.

The street kids along with their parent sing carols in exchange for loose change outside public jeepneys, unmindful of the danger they pose to motorists.

“Naa'y mohangyo nga dili lang sila i-rescue kay after Sinulog mamauli naman sila diri. Pero with their humanitarian reason, dili gyud pwede, i-rescue gyud nato,” said Japson, a former city councilor.

She said they extended the usual hours of rescue operation to make sure that the streets are orderly and peaceful during the festival.

DSWS team in cooperation with the Anti-Mendicancy team, Task Force for Street Children, Women’s and Children Desk in Cebu City Police Station, barangay officials, and other non-government organizations start roaming the streets in the early afternoon until late at night.

Last week, they rescued more than 100 street dwellers at the main streets of the city, particularly along Fuente Osmeña, B. Rodriguez Street, and Manalili Street among others.

Since majority of the street dwellers are not from the city, DSWS are sending them back to their respective provinces. Those who are from the city are sheltered at the Parian Drop-in Center and Community Scouts Youth Guidance Center.

For profiling purposes, the DSWS team will gather basic information about the street dwellers which include names, age, addresses, among others during the rescue operation.

At least 166 street dwellers were rescued by DSWS last December 2017. Japson then reiterated that the problem of street dwellers is hard to deal with knowing that these individuals keep coming back to the streets.

On the other hand, Councilor Eugenio Gabuya Jr., who chairs the City Council's committee on public services, told The FREEMAN that container vans will be put up as Devotee City on the grounds of Compaña Maritima sometime this week.

He said they requested at least 120 container vans from 2GO cargo firm. The container vans accommodate at least 3,600 individuals.

The Devotee City is intended for pilgrims who don't have a place to stay during the Sinulog festivities.

Cebu City accredits 3,000 vendors for Sinulog 2018

(The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Government has accredited almost 3,000 vendors to sell their products during the Sinulog.

Division for the Welfare of the Urban Poor (DWUP) Operations Head Genevieve Alcoseba said the last day of the registration last Saturday had at least 764 vendors accredited.

The DWUP extended the registration last January 4 to 6 after the number of those who registered in December did not even reach 50 percent of their projected 2,000 vendors.

Alcoseba assured that the city can accommodate all the registered vendors, even if they have exceeded the projected number.

"Yes, pero Cebu City vendors atong priority as to the giving of primary locations," she said.

If the space along the Sinulog route is not enough, the DWUP will put them in the secondary locations, which are the areas that the Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) would close as routes for all types of vehicles.

At as of press time, Alcoseba could not yet determine what are these secondary locations for they have to coordinate with the CCTO.

"We still have to check kay mag-ocular because we still have to coordinate with CCTO sa mga road closures. Kay didto pud nato sila ipang butang," she said.

Within the week, the DWUP team will conduct an inspection on the areas the CCTO would identify in order to determine how many vendors will be accommodated at those routes.

Alcoseba said there is no standard stall size of the vendors but they prohibited the vendors to put up tents.

"Were allowing screens especially sa dry goods, Kung fruits or street food, small push carts. No folding bed, no tent, no latag-latag sa sidewalk. We are allowing umbrellas only during rain or extreme heat," she added.

The city government will issue identification cards to the registered vendors as a pass that they are accredited to sell. The expected date of the releasing of the IDs will be on January 15, 16 and 17.

Those caught selling without registration will have their merchandise confiscated.

The DWUP personnel, together with the Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification and Enhancement (PROBE) team, Philippine National Police, barangay tanods and other deputized volunteers, is tasked to check vendors’ registration.

These personnel will be stationed along the Sinulog route which carries the master list of accredited vendors.

The city government is doing this scheme in order to regulate the vendors during Sinulog in order to make the celebration orderly and peaceful.

Cebu City’s one-stop shop makes P34M in first 2 days

(RVC)

THE Cebu City Treasurer’s Office (CTO) collected P34 million in business taxes in the first two days of the renewal period this year.

Francisco Fernandez, the mayor’s executive assistant, said they expect more establishments to renew their permits this year, as the City has intensified its efforts to run after violators.

Acting City Treasurer Veronica Morelos said the amount was good, considering that they are still on the second day of the renewal period.

So far, more than a thousand business owners have renewed their business permits at the one-stop-shop at the Robinsons Galleria that the City opened last Jan. 3.

The one-stop-shop also accepts new applications of business permits, special permits and retirement of business.

It will be open until Jan. 26. Last year, the City shut down several establishments for failing to secure the necessary permits, including the three branches of Rico’s Lechon, which operated without business permits.

CH collects P34M in 2 days

By Jean Marvette A. Demecillo (The Freeman,/FPL , FREEMANNEWS)

CEBU, Philippines — At least P34 million was collected by the Cebu City Treasurer’s Office within the first two days of accepting new applications and renewal of business permits.

Acting City Treasurer Veronica Morelos said the office is hoping that all 35,000 existing businesses in the city will pay the right taxes to avoid legal problems with the city government and possible closure.

“Ang average businesses nga mo-secure og mayor’s business permit is 27,000 to 28,000 ra gyud as recorded in the previous years,” Morelos said.

Morelos said the city is targeting to collect P1.5 billion for the business tax this year. The city government has started accepting new applications and renewal of mayor’s business permit on January 3 at Robinsons Galleria Cebu.

Morelos reminded the businessmen to submit all requirements and secure permits until January 26 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Mondays to Saturdays except January 20. Failure to secure permits until January 26, a two percent interest per month and 25 percent surcharge and penalties will be imposed by the city.

Morelos said there will be massive inspection in February to check those businesses that have not secured permits. She said the inspection will ensure that all businesses that are operating in the city have secured permits.

Francisco Fernandez, executive assistant of Mayor Tomas Osmeña, said the city is expecting more businesses to pay their business taxes this year considering that the mayor has been serious in his fight against tax evaders.

“We are hoping nga makita sa atong mga businessmen nga seryoso ta sa pagpasirado kon dili gyod mobayad og buhis,” Fernandez said.

It was last year when Osmeña started shutting down establishments that are allegedly operating without permits. These include the 12 warehouses and one main office/store of Vic Enterprises; Abuhan branch along Ramos Street; two branches of the famous Rico’s Lechon, as well as its central commissary; Time Out Sports Bar; Jeshian Café; Ed’s Tambayan; and Chuva-Chuva.

The mayor earlier said that he is not going after businesses for as long as they pay the right taxes.

Cebu City Hall aims for drug-free workplace

(The Freeman/JBB, FREEMANNEWS)

CEBU, Philippines — More Cebu City Hall employees are expected to undergo surprise drug tests as the city aims for a drug-free working environment in 2018.

Leading by example, workers of Cebu City Office of Substance Abuse Prevention (COSAP) submitted to a surprise urinary drug test initiated by their own department last Wednesday morning.

“In the coming weeks and months, we will be conducting surprise drug tests. We will not stop until every department will be cleared from illegal drug,” COSAP head Garry Lao said.

The COSAP drug test which showed negative results for all 15 employees, including Lao himself, is the first among the many drug tests which will be initiated by the department.

The drug test involving his staff, said Lao, was conducted for transparency purposes and to assure the public that the workers in their department are living clean and healthy lifestyles.

He added that the initiative was done to show people that the city’s hopes of eliminating the drug problem is easier executed when it begins from the agency tasked to eradicate substance abuse.

As per Mayor Tomas Osmeña’s previous order, Cebu City Hall employees who are found to be positive for illegal drug use will be immediately terminated from office.

Lao further urged City Hall employees to uphold the ethical standards set by the law and to live a simple lifestyle.

Lao said they encourage City Hall workers who may be addicted to illegal substances to enroll in the city’s We Care Program.

This is a community-based rehabilitation program that treats its participants as ‘out-patients’ by giving them the privilege to come home to their families throughout the six-month treatment period.

“So far wala pa’y City Hall employee nga ni-submit ‘cause they think na if mo-submit sila ma-terminate ra man gihapon sila sa trabaho. They [city hall workers] are very welcome. This rehab program is much more willing to help individuals lessen their addiction through a fusion of interventions,” Lao said.

He also reminded city government workers that the best way to have a safe place to live is to foster a drug-free community. —

City to accept more proposals for Kawit infra

(RVC)

THE Cebu City Government will start accepting unsolicited proposals from other interested investors on the plan to have the Kawit Island at the South Road Properties (SRP) leased.

This, after the P18-billion proposal of Universal Hotels and Resorts Inc., the original proponent of the joint venture agreement for the Cebu City Integrated Resort in Kawit Island at the SRP has completed the negotiation for the project.

The joint venture selection committee (JVSC) chaired by City Administrator Nigel Paul Villarete has published the Final Notice for Invitation to Submit Comparative Proposals, which gives other interested investors the chance to submit their comparative proposals until Feb. 14.

Interested private entities may submit their comparative proposals, which include the notarized Expression of Interest (EOI) to the office of the Department of General Services in City Hall.

The EOI must contain an undertaking that the investor has completed a similar project and can secure the government approvals to implement all components of the project.

Francisco Fernandez said that for those who would want to challenge the proposal of the original proponent to see which has better offer for the City.

If there is a challenger, Fernandez, who is the representative of Mayor Tomas Osmeña to JVSC, said it will be reviewed and the original proponent will be given the chance to match it.

“We will review the proposal of the challenger and if their offer is superior, we will allow the original proponent to match it. We will conduct another review because we have to see which has a better offer that is beneficial to the City,” Fernandez said.

Earlier, Osmeña announced that JG Summit Holdings Inc. wants to lease the eight-hectare Kawit Island and invest P18 billion on a development in the area.

The firm wants to build a leisure hub with a 1,000-bed hotel in four towers, casino, convention center and restaurants, among others.

Universal Hotels and Resorts Inc., an affiliate of JG Summit, has secured an endorsement from the City Council to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. to develop and operate an integrated resort and casino in Kawit Island.

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