MyCebu.ph: Cebu News & Features - Re/Discovering Cebu, one story at a time

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Cebuano hotel expands to Bohol, breaks ground for Anda resort

MyCebu Partners

November 15, 2018 1:17 pm November 15, 2018

2 min read

A homegrown Cebuano hotel will bring its special brand of service to Bohol as it breaks ground for a two-level building in a recently acquired property in Anda that has…

Basadours brings colorful tales, artful activities to Naga children

November 15, 2018 4:40 am November 15, 2018

2 min read

Basadours Inc. rolled out a series of storytelling sessions last October to the children of the City of Naga who were displaced from their homes due to a landslide. The…

SM Seaside City Cebu marks start of Seaside Christmas with grand tree lighting, opening ceremony

November 14, 2018 11:50 am November 14, 2018

2 min read

A story of a dying village saved by a magical blue star with the help of an innocent child played out in the colorful costumes of underwater creatures marked the…

Mactan-Cebu International Airport named Asia-Pacific Medium Airport of the Year

November 14, 2018 2:48 am November 14, 2018

2 min read

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) was awarded the Asia-Pacific Medium Airport of the Year in the CAPA 2018 Asia Aviation Awards for Excellence. MCIA emerged top among airports with over…

Lauv to perform in Cebu as part of Asia Tour 2019

November 13, 2018 10:44 am November 13, 2018

2 min read

Independent singer, songwriter, producer, and pop visionary Lauv will return to Asia in May 2019 with a run of extensive dates throughout the region including a performance in Cebu on…

Dairy Queen brings best selling ice cream to Cebu

November 6, 2018 10:24 am November 6, 2018

3 min read

Touted as one of the most delicious ice cream brands in the world, Dairy Queen begins serving its signature soft serve products to Cebuanos as it simultaneously opens its SM…

Tretorn, Fantasy Sandals now in Res|Toe|Run lineup of brands

November 4, 2018 2:38 am November 4, 2018

3 min read

Those who grew up in the 90s will remember the popular Tretorn sneakers with the classic gullwing accent that were often the footwear choice in PE classes. The Primer Group…

Israel ambassador sees big potential for trade, tourism with Philippines

October 25, 2018 8:51 pm October 25, 2018

3 min read

Israel sees a big potential for stronger trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties with the Philippines, said new Israeli Ambassador Rafael Harpaz. An important role of government, he added, is to…

Events Lifestyle Travel

Hong Kong Disneyland offers wicked fun with Disney Halloween Time 2018

MyCebu Brand Content

October 25, 2018 9:21 am October 25, 2018

7 min read

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort presents the most wickedly fun celebration during Disney Halloween Time from September 13 to October 31, 2018. Halloween Town, where Jack Skellington and his mischievous friends…

Megaworld to build Spanish-inspired residential tower in The Mactan Newtown

October 23, 2018 3:17 pm October 23, 2018

3 min read

To be built in time to mark the 500th year of the circumnavigation of the world by the ship that inspired its name, the La Victoria Global Residences will add…

2 min read

Be ‘Merry & Bright’ as Marco Polo Plaza Cebu lights up Tree of Hope

November 17, 2018 11:07 am November 17, 2018

2 min read

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Help make people’s Christmas “Merry and Bright” and get the chance to win a round-trip to Hong Kong via Cathay Pacific by donating to Marco Polo Plaza Cebu’s Tree of…

Help make people’s Christmas “Merry and Bright” and get the chance to win a round-trip to Hong Kong via Cathay Pacific by donating to Marco Polo Plaza Cebu’s Tree of Hope.

Cebu City’s finest is inviting everyone to the lighting of the Tree of Hope on Saturday, November 17. The lighting of the Tree of Hope kicks off the Festive Season at the hotel with this year’s theme “Merry & Bright”.

Catch live performances from Cebu Center for Dance, GMA’s The Clash winner Golden Cañedo and finalists Anthony Rosaldo and Garrett Bolden. Have a photo taken with Mr. & Mrs. Claus as we count down together to the lighting of the Tree of Hope.

Marco Polo Plaza and GMA Kapuso Foundation have been partners for the past 9 years and a total of P1,344,181.57 in donations have already been raised. By donating to the Tree of Hope, you support various projects of GMA Kapuso Foundation such as the Unang Hakbang sa Kinabukasan Project, Give-A-Gift Project and many more.

By donating two or more Christmas balls, you can earn one raffle ticket for a chance to win a roundtrip ticket to Hong Kong care of Cathay Pacific.

Be part of this beautiful Christmas tradition and donate to the Tree of Hope for only P200 per Christmas ball from November 16 to January 6. All proceeds will be given to GMA Kapuso Foundation – one of the most accomplished non-government organizations in the Philippines whose mission is to uplift the lives of underprivileged Filipinos.

Join us as we light up our Tree of Hope and bring a Merry and Bright Christmas to one and all. Celebrate this Festive Season with your family and friends at Cebu City’s Finest – Marco Polo Plaza. (Press Release)

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2 min read

Marco Polo offers great debut, wedding deals at Kasalan at Kotilyon 2018

November 16, 2018 12:19 pm November 16, 2018

2 min read

2 min read

Get great discounts on room accommodations, Cafe Marco buffet, spa treatments, and special banquet packages for debuts and weddings by visiting the Marco Polo Plaza Cebu booth at the Kasalan…

Get great discounts on room accommodations, Cafe Marco buffet, spa treatments, and special banquet packages for debuts and weddings by visiting the Marco Polo Plaza Cebu booth at the Kasalan at Kotilyon 2018 – A Wedding and Debut Expo at the Ayala Center Cebu.

The expo opens today and will run until November 18.

Stay in the comforts of the Marco Polo Deluxe Room with a starting rate of P3,900 for room only or opt to stay with a sumptuous breakfast buffet for two waiting for you at the Café Marco at P4,300. Experience the superb Cafe Marco international buffet spread at a discounted rate of P650 net for breakfast, P1,080 net for lunch and P1,180 net for dinner.

Unwind and relax with discounted spa treatments at the Wellness Zone with spa packages starting at P600 and choose from Hilot Massage, Foot Reflexology, Foot Spa, Facial and Dead Salt Sea Scrub & Massage.

Ideal as gifts are Value Vouchers for rooms, spa and restaurant use are also available at increments of P1,000. For every P4,000 net purchase of the Value Vouchers, get a complimentary P1,000 voucher.

Planning your wedding for 2018 or 2019? Avail yourself of a 10% discount on our debut and wedding packages and choose two from our exclusive offers such as additional complimentary one night stay before or after the wedding, gift certificate for a Chocolate Indulgence Spa treatment for two persons, in-room Champagne Breakfast during hotel stay or waived clearing fee for the dessert buffet. This is only valid for new bookings with an initial deposit of P30,000 during the fair or until Nov. 18, 2018.

Visit our booth at the lower ground floor of Ayala Center Cebu. For real time updates, like the Facebook page at facebook.com/marcopolocebu or follow on Twitter at @5StarInCebu. For more information, you can call (032) 253-1111 or visit www.marcopoloplazacebu.com. (Press Release)

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2 min read

Cebuano hotel expands to Bohol, breaks ground for Anda resort

MyCebu Partners

November 15, 2018 1:17 pm November 15, 2018

2 min read

2 min read

A homegrown Cebuano hotel will bring its special brand of service to Bohol as it breaks ground for a two-level building in a recently acquired property in Anda that has…

A homegrown Cebuano hotel will bring its special brand of service to Bohol as it breaks ground for a two-level building in a recently acquired property in Anda that has been renamed to Parklane East Coast Resort and Spa.

The management of Cebu Parklane International Hotel plans to add 60 modern rooms to its Anda resort’s existing 11 villas.

Held recently in Candabong, Anda, Bohol, the groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Anda Mayor Angelina Simacio and Tourism Officer Rouvien de Guzman as well barangay officials and the local police.

Parklane executives present included Parklane President and Board of Director Basil Ting, General Manager Cenelyn Manguilimotan, Engineer Neil Rom, Architect Rodney Co, and Parklane East Coast Resort and Spa Manager Lucky Daven Lim.

Parklane East Coast Resort and Spa

Groundbreaking in Anda, Bohol. (Photo from Parklane Facebook page)

Ultra modern Anda, Bohol resort

Parklane’s beachside resort in Anda, Bohol is projected to be fully operational by the last quarter of 2019. Aside from the additional contemporary rooms, it will have five swimming pools and state of the art amenities for corporate events and destination weddings, botanical gardens and sanctuary, recreational facilities, and even a spa and massage center with views of the Bohol sea.

The resort will offer such aqua sports activities as scuba diving and snorkeling and island tours to ensure that guests get a unique and distinct tropical experience. They are also assured of consistent high quality service at Parklane East Coast Resort and Spa.

Cebu Parklane International Hotel has been known as a brand that strongly stands for Cebu.

Special brand of Parklane hospitality

Its Bohol counterpart, the Parklane East Coast Resort and Spa, will also proudly represent the province and its rich culture, scenic ecotourism sites, and the hospitality and service that is distinctly Bol-anon.

Parklane East Coast Resort and Spa is a new tourist destination that combines the magic of the sea and the unending natural beauty that characterizes the mystical town of Anda.

For bookings and inquiries, please call +63.928.762.8730 or send email to [email protected].

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2 min read

Basadours brings colorful tales, artful activities to Naga children

November 15, 2018 4:40 am November 15, 2018

2 min read

2 min read

Basadours Inc. rolled out a series of storytelling sessions last October to the children of the City of Naga who were displaced from their homes due to a landslide. The…

Basadours Inc. rolled out a series of storytelling sessions last October to the children of the City of Naga who were displaced from their homes due to a landslide.

The month-long outreach project started on October 4 at the CEPOC Central Elementary School. The children listened in rapt attention as the Basadours animatedly read “Just Add Dirt” and “Bakawan” stories that teach the important values of cleanliness and environmental consciousness.

In the weeks that followed, Basadours visited other evacuation centers in Naga, including Central Elementary School on October 11, Naga National High School on October 13, and Enan Chiong Activity Center on October 20. Volunteer storytellers shared stories of hope and positive change in each stopover.

The month-long activity culminated on October 27 at the Naga Central School, where Basadours teamed up with three other organizations: Summerville (an annual summer workshop for children ages two to 13 years old), Kalinangan Youth Foundation (KALFI Lead), and Choose Tuesday. They brought the magic of storytelling as well as other engaging activities for children such as a play station, a coloring station, and an origami station.

Jo Belle Marabiles, executive director of Basadours, Inc., expressed her gratitude toward her companions and emphasized the power of storytelling among children.

“I thank my fellow Basadours for volunteering their time and effort for this endeavor in the true spirit of service and charity — giving their time, energy and pooling their resources for the children of Naga,” she said.

“Storytelling gives them something to think about. We aim to inspire them to hope for the better by reading and delivering children’s stories that will hopefully stay with them. We also hope that they live out the values from these stories or that they will love to read books as well,” added Marabiles.

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1 min read

National Book Store’s Book Binge Bazaar comes to Cebu

November 15, 2018 4:23 am November 15, 2018

1 min read

1 min read

National Book Store is bringing its Book Binge Bazaar to Cebu City for the first time. Thousands of books will be available for as low as P75 during the event….

National Book Store is bringing its Book Binge Bazaar to Cebu City for the first time. Thousands of books will be available for as low as P75 during the event. The bazaar will be held at Hall 1 and 2, Cebu Trade Hall, 3rd level, SM City Cebu, from 10 am to 9 pm on November 21, 22, and 25 and from 10 am to 10 pm on November 23 and 24.

Books will be available at five price points: P75, P125, P175, P275, and P375. The Book Binge Bazaar is the best place to stock up on great reads with its great prices. Fill your shelves with bestselling young adult titles like Rick Riordan’s The Heroes of Olympus and Tahereh Mafi’s Shatter Me series. Choose from a vast selection of fiction novels and inspiring reads.

Surprise kids with My Little Pony storybooks and DK workbooks. Continue your self-improvement and lifelong learning with guidebooks on work, travel, fashion, health, fitness, and many other topics.

Admission is free. Join the discussion online and share your hauls by using the hashtag #BookBingeBazaar. Connect with National Book Store on social media – @nationalbookstore on Instagram and @nbsalert on Facebook and Twitter.

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4 min read

PLDT, Smart fire up PH’s first 5G cell sites in Makati and Clark

November 14, 2018 10:12 pm November 14, 2018

4 min read

4 min read

Leading telecoms company and digital services provider PLDT and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have fired up the country’s first 5G cell sites in the Makati Central Business…

Leading telecoms company and digital services provider PLDT and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have fired up the country’s first 5G cell sites in the Makati Central Business District and at the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ) in Pampanga.

PLDT and Smart on-aired the first 5G cell site at the PLDT headquarters in Makati City with technology partner Huawei, while it also activated the first 5G cell site at the Clark Smart 5G City in the CFZ with technology partner Ericsson. The 5G cell sites are 3GPP standard compliant and are the first to be activated in the Philippines.

Among top global operators

“I am happy to announce that PLDT and Smart just fired up the first 5G cell sites in the country, putting the company alongside the first-tier operators in the world to have deployed live 5G base stations. This is part of our commitment to bring the most advanced technologies to the country,” said PLDT and Smart chair and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan.

By firing up a 5G cell site in a central business district, PLDT and Smart are looking to pilot 5G solutions catered to densely populated areas.

“With 5G resources now in place, we are looking at developing 5G solutions and applications for central business district areas like Makati, which host a dense population of businesses, people and advanced devices,” said Ernesto R. Alberto, PLDT and Smart Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer.

This is in line with PLDT and Smart’s recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Clark Development Corp. to transform the CFZ into the country’s first Smart 5G City.

Powerful platform for solutions

“With 5G cell sites now live and on-air, we are now set to test 5G’s powerful platform to develop solutions such as autonomous vehicles, connected fleets, and smart buildings and factories, and be able to deliver 5G services to our customers soon,” said Joachim Horn, PLDT-Smart chief technology and information advisor.

According to Mario G. Tamayo, PLDT-Smart Senior Vice President for Network Planning and Engineering, Smart is continuously upgrading its network’s Core and Transport elements, including upgrading to fiber the backhaul connecting the network’s cell sites around the country and deploying 5G-ready equipment in its ongoing nationwide LTE roll-out. In the CFZ, PLDT and Smart are also ramping up the roll-out of LTE in key areas and equipping all of them with 5G facilities in the coming months.

“I would like to congratulate PLDT and Smart for this momentous occasion as they lay the foundation for the network infrastructure, to take it to the next level as it enables the country to fully realize its ambition toward a more digitalized economy. I am very happy to be part of this partnership as we enable 5G capability in Smart network today,” said Ericsson’s Nunzio Mirtillo, Market Area Head for South East Asia, Oceania and India.

According to Arthur Wang, director of Huawei Philippines’ PLDT group account: “We are happy to partner with PLDT and Smart in helping bring 5G to PLDT-Smart. Through this partnership, we hope to continue developing more innovations to deliver digital services to PLDT and Smart customers.”

Powered by PH’s most extensive fibver network

Armed with both fixed and wireless infrastructure powered by the country’s most extensive fiber network now at over 221,000 kilometers, PLDT and Smart are best positioned to deploy 5G in the country.

5G opens up exciting possibilities for Internet of Things (IoT) applications and smart cities for Filipinos, particularly for the transport sector, traffic management, manufacturing, airport and mall operations, logistics and warehousing, retail, customer support, and smart homes, among others.

Apart from ultra-high speeds, the key features of 5G include enhanced mobile broadband services, massive machine type communications, and ultra-reliable and low-latency communications. (Press Release)

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2 min read

SM Seaside City Cebu marks start of Seaside Christmas with grand tree lighting, opening ceremony

November 14, 2018 11:50 am November 14, 2018

2 min read

2 min read

A story of a dying village saved by a magical blue star with the help of an innocent child played out in the colorful costumes of underwater creatures marked the…

A story of a dying village saved by a magical blue star with the help of an innocent child played out in the colorful costumes of underwater creatures marked the start of the Wonders of a Seaside Christmas at SM Seaside City Cebu.

The grand tree lighting ceremony and opening of sea-themed Christmas park last Saturday, November 10, started with a magical dance that developed into a powerful tale of destruction and redemption to the delight of guests, young and old alike. Beautiful music was provided by the University of Cebu Chorus.

The mall’s Christmas theme pays homage to its seaside location in the South Road Properties. It also highlights now more than ever the need to conserve and preserve Cebu’s marine resource.

Digital theater with immersive video

SM Seaside City Cebu unveiled a towering Christmas tree decorated with jellyfish and corals and complemented by a huge cake dome with a digital theater that tells the story of Ting, the Butanding, in immersive 360-degree video.

Stepping inside the cake dome is like diving deep underwater where you get to swim past corals and the sea anemone which serves as the home of the clownfish. As a narrator explains the world underwater, you see turtles, dolphins, and whale sharks glide by or overhead.

The best thing about this sea-rrific adventure is it’s absolutely free, though you may have to line up for your turn. Check out the video showing schedules below.

SM Seaside City Cebu Christmas events

SM Seaside City Cebu also lets you experience the best time of the year with the following fun-filled and exciting activities:

Santa Meet and Greet
Come and meet the merriest man of Christmas. Whisper your wishes to Santa Claus and you just might get them to come true — but only if you’re nice.
Every Wednesday until December 19. The last Meet and Greet with Santa is on December 25.
2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

SM Seaside City Christmas

Mallgoers have their photos taken with Santa.

The Wonders of Christmas: A Ballet Extravaganza
Enjoy Christmas stories acted out through the graceful movements of the dance. Witness dazzling performances by the Balletcenter Cebu.
November 14 | 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
November 15 | 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
November 28 | 6:30 p.m.
December 1 | 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

SM Seaside Christmas

IMMERSIVE SHOW. You shouldn’t miss The Great Butanding Show and its immersive video experience.

Ding: The Great Butanding Show
Meet Ding, the Great Butanding, inside the sweet and decadent Cake House Digital Theater.
Monday to Thursday | 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday to Sunday | 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Ding, The Great Butanding show

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2 min read

Mactan-Cebu International Airport named Asia-Pacific Medium Airport of the Year

November 14, 2018 2:48 am November 14, 2018

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The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) was awarded the Asia-Pacific Medium Airport of the Year in the CAPA 2018 Asia Aviation Awards for Excellence. MCIA emerged top among airports with over…

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) was awarded the Asia-Pacific Medium Airport of the Year in the CAPA 2018 Asia Aviation Awards for Excellence.

MCIA emerged top among airports with over 10 million annual passengers. It was awarded for having been “the biggest standout strategically,” having “established itself as a strategic leader,” and having “done the most to advance the progress of the aviation industry.”

CAPA’s Aviation Awards for Excellence, held in Singapore on November 8, is regarded as the pre-eminent awards for strategic excellence in aviation. It rewards airlines and airports that are not only successful but have also provided industry leadership in adjusting to a new environment.

MCIA Terminal 2

MCIA was selected for the successful opening of Terminal 2, which provides ample capacity to support international growth and offers the best airport passenger experience in the Philippines. Terminal 2 lifts the airport’s capacity from 4.5 million to 12.5 million. The terminal took only three years to build with construction beginning less than a year after the airport was transferred to a new private sector consortium consisting of India’s GMR and the Philippines’ Megawide.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport

Terminal 2 of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

Following the successful privatization, MCIA won CAPA’s Asia Pacific small airport of the year category in 2016. Annual traffic reached 10 million passengers in 2017, putting MCIA in the medium airport category. Total passenger traffic at Cebu grew at a consistent 14% clip in 2015, 2016 and 2017, and has accelerated this year, reaching 26% in the first eight months of 2018.

MCIA’s international traffic has more than doubled since 2014, when the airport handled only 1.7 million international passengers. International traffic grew 29% in 2017 to 3.1 million, and is on pace to exceed 5 million this year following 65% growth through the first eight months.

MCIA network

All three main Philippine airline groups have been pursuing rapid expansion at Cebu, which they are now using as an alternative hub for transfer traffic. The airport also has attracted eight new foreign airlines over the last three years, and is currently served by 16 foreign carriers. MCIA’s network has expanded rapidly, and currently consists of 24 international and 16 domestic destinations.

“The opening of the new international terminal follows a highly successful privatization, positioning the airport for rapid growth and making MCIA a model for other airports in the Philippines and throughout Asia as potential PPP (Public Private Partnership) opportunities are evaluated,” said Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority General Manager Steve Dicdican.

At a time of industry upheaval, CAPA Aviation Awards winners are recognized for adopting strategies that offer new directions for others to take up. The CAPA Awards for Excellence are not driven by customer surveys or sponsorship. An independent panel of international judges researches the awards. (Press Release)

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2 min read

Lauv to perform in Cebu as part of Asia Tour 2019

November 13, 2018 10:44 am November 13, 2018

2 min read

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Independent singer, songwriter, producer, and pop visionary Lauv will return to Asia in May 2019 with a run of extensive dates throughout the region including a performance in Cebu on…

Independent singer, songwriter, producer, and pop visionary Lauv will return to Asia in May 2019 with a run of extensive dates throughout the region including a performance in Cebu on May 21.

Lauv is currently on a US headline tour and doing select dates opening for Ed Sheeran.

This will be Lauv’s third time returning to Asia, second run of headline dates after touring with Ed in the Fall of 2017.

The Philippine leg of the Lauv’s Asia Tour is produced by AEG Presents and Ovation Productions. Pre-sale of concert tickets starts Nov. 14 with general on-sale happening on Nov. 23.

Lauv has just released new single “There’s No Way” featuring Julia Michaels.

The single already has over 38 million streams and is featured on 32 Spotify New Music playlists. It has been added to the Hot Hits local Playlist across Spotify Asia and soaring up the local charts. The single has seen support from key international media, including MTV Global PUSH, Sirius Radio, Radio Disney, BBC Radio 1, Billboard, Rolling Stone, and countless others.

Lauv comes to Cebu in Philippine leg of Asian Tour 2019

The pair recently performed a stunning rendition of the single on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

This past summer, Lauv performed his hit single, “I Like Me Better,” on the Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon, as well as the 2018 Teen Choice Awards and 2018 MTV Video Music Awards.

The single reached the Top 10 of Top 40 US radio, and top 10 airplay hits around the globe including Australia, Germany, New Zealand, and more.

A highlight of his 2018 project “I met you when I was 18, ” the song recently went double platinum in the US, triple platinum in Australia, and platinum in multiple other markets. He has now surpassed well over 1 billion cumulative streams worldwide.

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3 min read

Dairy Queen brings best selling ice cream to Cebu

November 6, 2018 10:24 am November 6, 2018

3 min read

3 min read

Touted as one of the most delicious ice cream brands in the world, Dairy Queen begins serving its signature soft serve products to Cebuanos as it simultaneously opens its SM…

Touted as one of the most delicious ice cream brands in the world, Dairy Queen begins serving its signature soft serve products to Cebuanos as it simultaneously opens its SM City Cebu and Robinsons Cybergate branches today.

The Dairy Queen Cebu branches carry the bestselling Blizzard, which is soft serve ice cream mixed with such ingredients as fruit, chocolate chunks, cookie, and nuts, as well as ice cream cakes, ice cream sandwich, and dilly bar.

One of the unique features of the DQ Blizzard is it is served upside down and there are two reasons for this, according to Lorent Adrias, Chief Marketing Officer of Philippine Pizza, Inc. (PPI).

Dairy Queen Cebu

RED SPOON. Each serving of Dairy Queen comes with its iconic red spoon. A company official says customers have come to look at it as the “pathway to happiness.”

Served upside down

The brand wants to make the customer experience fun and at the same time show the quality of its ice cream, he added. Aside from Dairy Queen, PPI also holds the franchise for Pizza Hut and Taco Bell in the Philippines.

“Serving the Blizzard upside down is an affirmation of the quality of our ice cream. The thick and creamy consistency of the ice cream makes it possible,” Adrias also said.

Another Dairy Queen icon is the red spoon, which comes with every serving of soft serve ice cream. Customers have come to look at it as the “pathway to happiness,” he cited.

Dairy Queen Cebu

Dairy Queen’s ice cream sandwich.

Oldest franchise

Dairy Queen has been around for 78 years, making it the oldest franchise in the whole world, said the brand’s VP for Operations Erryl Ramos.

Including the two newly-opened branches in Cebu, DQ now has 108 stores all over the Philippines.

Ramos said during a media preview last night that he believes the opening sales for Cebu will surpass the highest store opening record held by SM City Clark.

Dairy Queen Cebu

CEBU BRANCHES. In Cebu, Dairy Queen is available in SM City Cebu (above) and Robinsons Cybergate.

Dairy Queen Cebu branches

The Dairy Queen Cebu stores are the first outside of Luzon, said Adrias, adding they decided to open here because the Cebuanos have been very active in asking for a DQ branch in Cebu on social media.

Adrian said they want Dairy Queen to be the Filipinos’ treat of choice for life’s little and big victories.

The SM City Cebu branch is located beside the newly renovated Pizza Hut restaurant. New Pizza Hut features include a different look, new menu, takeout window, and open kitchen. It can accommodate about a hundred customers.

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3 min read

Tretorn, Fantasy Sandals now in Res|Toe|Run lineup of brands

November 4, 2018 2:38 am November 4, 2018

3 min read

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Those who grew up in the 90s will remember the popular Tretorn sneakers with the classic gullwing accent that were often the footwear choice in PE classes. The Primer Group…

Those who grew up in the 90s will remember the popular Tretorn sneakers with the classic gullwing accent that were often the footwear choice in PE classes.

The Primer Group of Companies brings back to the Philippines the stylish whites manufactured in Sweden that now incorporate new technology innovations for maximum wear comfort.

Carlo Cecilio, Tretorn brand executive, said the company has upgraded its classic Nylites with EcoOrtholite technology that puts more support in the heel and ankle.

He added the gullwing accent now comes in more hues, including such school colors as yellow, blue, and green.

The Tretorn Nylite line, which offers leather and canvas choices and colors other than white, is available at all Res|Toe|Run outlets in Cebu.

Classic sneakers, chic sandals

According to Cecilio, the Primer Group continues to bring in more brands in line with its mission to provide an exciting range of comfortable footwear that will cater to different styles and personalities.

Aside from Tretorn, it now also carries chic and comfy leather sandals for women that are manufactured in Greece. Fantasy Sandals is produced by an established Greek brand that also makes leather bags.

The sandals have full polyurethane outsoles so they are lightweight and resistant to abrasions. Fantasy Sandals footwear also utilizes the bubble sole technology, where the air trapped during the moulding process provides extra cushioning. These are also available at Res|Toe|Run branches in Cebu.

The Res|Toe|Run stores, with its unique and out-of-the-box concepts and impressive selection of rare and iconic brands, has come to be a top-of-mind choice among the youth and the young at heart.

Your Kind of Comfort campaign

Knowing best that millennials value style as much as comfort when out shopping for the perfect pair, it comes up with the “Your Kind of Comfort” campaign for the season.

In the active comfort category, those who love engaging in various fitness activities can find such footwear brands as FitFlop, DC and People. On the other hand, lazy weekend mornings are best paired with easygoing footwear from Native and Faux Pas Paris.

Stylish comfort footwear offers a diverse mix of brands that embody edgy style without the wearer needing to sacrifice comfort. Check out the latest designs by Dr. Martens, Tretorn, Native, Regetta Canoe and FitFlop.

Believing that footwear must be comfortable no matter what the occasion, the polished comfort category carry styles that can fit a wide range of activities. Think Faux Pas Paris, Fantasy Sandals, FitFlop, Kickers, Sledgers, and Flossy for work, business meetings, and other special events.

Fantasy Sandals

Carlo Cecilio of the Primer Group of Companies talks about Tretorn and Fantasy Sandals in a media briefing in Cebu.

Res|Toe|Run branches

From ensuring the most optimal shopping experience all the way to housing the latest in comfortable footwear, Res|Toe|Run will always make sure that you enjoy nothing less than “Your Kind of Comfort.”

Res|Toe|Run branches may be found in the following locations: Banilad Town Centre, Ayala Center Cebu, and Robinsons Galleria Cebu. You may also shop for the latest footwear offers by Res|Toe|Run through its official e-commerce website, www.restoerun.ph.

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2 min read

National scientist Dr. Davide to speak in UP conference

November 1, 2018 5:11 pm November 1, 2018

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Dr. Romulo Davide, the multi-awarded national scientist, will be the guest speaker in a scientific conference on Nov. 23 at the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) headquarters in…

Dr. Romulo Davide, the multi-awarded national scientist, will be the guest speaker in a scientific conference on Nov. 23 at the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna.

The scientific conference dubbed “Couldn’t AGRI More: Harvesting S & T Knowledge” will run from 9 a.m. to 12 at the Audio-Visual Room of UPOU.

It is organized by the Masters of Development Communication students under the DEVC 263 Class (Scientific and Technical Communication) of Dr. Joanne Serrano.

“We are honored to have Dr. Davide in this scientific conference where he will talk about the Farmer-Scientist Training Program or FSTP, an initiative that he carried out since 1994 to help farmers gain productive and sustainable yield,” said Alnard Pagulayan, DEVC 263 class coordinator.

Dr. Davide is a Ramon Magsaysay awardee in 2012.

He was recognized by the board of trustees for his “steadfast passion in placing the power and discipline of science in the hands of Filipino farmers, who have consequently multiplied their yields, created productive farming communities, and rediscovered the dignity of their labor.”

In 1994, he was awarded “Outstanding Agricultural Scientist” by the Department of Agriculture. He used his award money to launch the FSTP in his home village of Colawin in Argao, southern Cebu.

According to the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, Dr. Davide’s discovery of a nematode-trapping fungi led to the development of BIOCON, “the first Philippine biological control product” used against pests attacking vegetables, fruits, rice and other crops.

BIOCON has proven to be a practical substitute to expensive and toxic chemical nematicides.

Dr. Davide spent his childhood in the farmlands of Argao, which he considers as his first laboratory. He is the older brother of former Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr.

From his years in the rural village, Dr. Davide learned about farming and the challenges faced by farmers which later proved to be advantageous in his pursuit to complete his Agriculture degree at UP Los Baños in 1957.

He later earned his M.Sc. in Plant Pathology from Oklahoma State University (1962) and his Ph.D. in Nematology-Plant Pathology from North Carolina State University (1965).

“Couldn’t AGRI More” is organized in partnership with San Miguel Corp. The conference is open to 20 limited slots to the public. For more details, please visit www.facebook.com/DevComTalks.

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Cebu City student council heads undergo workshop to improve leadership skills

November 1, 2018 4:40 pm November 1, 2018

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Presidents and representatives of Cebu City’s Supreme Student Councils (SSC) underwent workshops and dialogues over timely social issues during the annual SSC Training and Election of Officers in Wellcome Hotel…

Presidents and representatives of Cebu City’s Supreme Student Councils (SSC) underwent workshops and dialogues over timely social issues during the annual SSC Training and Election of Officers in Wellcome Hotel last October 29 to 30.

Working with SSC officers is one of the flagship programs of the Cebu City Local Youth Development Office (CCLYDO) and the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation of Cebu City.

The two-day summit embraced the theme, “Sugbuanon Student Leaders Gearing Towards a Better Tomorrow.”

The summit convened officers of student body organizations to solidify their roles as Cebuano youth leaders. It sought to make efficient the dissemination of training materials and good practices to organization members and make a lasting community impact.

Voice of the youth

Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena initiated conversations with the SSC officers through “Talk to Tommy,” where Osmeña emphasized leadership as an important factor in amplifying the voice of the youth in bringing about positive social change.

Other speakers of the event include Cris Evert Lato-Ruffolo, Alein Navares, Marco Romas and Magdalina Robinsons.

“Student leaders play crucial roles in our society because they will become inspirational and influential adult leaders. Their training, exposure and interaction as youth leaders will significantly contribution their brand of leadership in whatever field they choose to be involved in after school,” said Ruffolo, who delivered a talk on “Servant Leadership for Student Leaders.”

An important module covered during the summit was the Magna Carta for Students or more popularly known as the Student’s Rights and Welfare (STRAW) Bill. The STRAW Bill was discussed by Hendy Abendan.

Other modules covered during the two-day summit include policies on relevant issues such as the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance, youth and media, project management and servant leadership.

SSC Federation officials

Jowel Sollano of Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) was elected president of the SSC Federation.

Niño Jan Miole of University of Cebu-Banilad (UC Banilad) and Andre Pepito of St. Theresa’s College (STC) were elected vice president and secretary respectively. Kylle Pulmones of University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R), Adrian Aninon and Noel Mirambel of UC Main were chosen treasurer and focal persons.

“The coalition of these great young minds leads to the pursuit of change and the drive to contribute for the betterment of Cebu. This can only be realized if we function together with one heartbeat,” said Vice President-elect Niño Miole.

After the election, the SSC Federation discussed goals and potential projects by identifying relevant issues which are needed to be addressed.

In line with the Philippine Youth Development Plan, CCLYDO integrates proactive community involvement of the youth through the summit.

The summit aims to bridge gaps in knowledge and linkages. It also provides opportunities for training and immersion to promote unified action, especially among youth-serving organizations.

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Israel ambassador sees big potential for trade, tourism with Philippines

October 25, 2018 8:51 pm October 25, 2018

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Israel sees a big potential for stronger trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties with the Philippines, said new Israeli Ambassador Rafael Harpaz. An important role of government, he added, is to…

Israel sees a big potential for stronger trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties with the Philippines, said new Israeli Ambassador Rafael Harpaz.

An important role of government, he added, is to create the conditions for nurturing business and one way to do this is to cultivate good political relations with other nations.

He explained during his courtesy call to the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) that his activities in the Philippines, which involved meeting local executives and business groups, serve to complement the four-day visit of President Rodrigo Duterte in Israel.

Israeli Ambassador Rafael Harpaz

OPPORTUNITIES. Israeli Ambassador Rafael Harpaz talks about trade and tourism opportunities with officers of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) during a courtesy call last October 23. Beside Harpaz is CCCI vice president for external affairs and relations Charles Kenneth Co.

Harpaz said there were special agreements signed between Israel and the Philippines during that visit, including business to business and government to government deals. He mentioned the oil exploration agreement that the Philippine government entered into with an Israeli company.

Israel has a lot to offer the Philippines, from innovations in agriculture and water management to new technology products, the Israeli ambassador also said.

“Your challenge is water management and quality. We can help you with this. Our challenge is not having enough water so we developed new sources. Saving water is also in our DNA,” Mr. Harpaz added, citing that Israel also excels in agriculture. Food security is one area where Israel and the Philippines can work on together.

He said his country also appreciates the role of Filipino caregivers, and the two countries recently inked a deal to regulate their working conditions. It is also looking at opening the hotel industry to Filipino workers, he further said.

Israeli Ambassador Rafael Harpaz

TRADE LINKS. Israeli Ambassador Rafael Harpaz with officials of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

According to Mr. Harpaz, the two countries can also benefit from increased tourism activities, noting that Filipinos do not need a visa to visit Israel. Many Filipinos travel to Israel as part of a pilgrimage tour to the Holy Land.

He also said they’re working on having direct flights between the Philippines and Israel as one way of further boosting tourism, adding he is confident that it will serve to increase visitor arrivals in both countries.

Israel might not manufacture mobile phones but it is responsible for many applications running on these devices. Waze, after all, was created by an Israeli startup, which is also behind other technology products pertaining to travel, transportation, and finance.

The Philippines in general and Cebu in particular can benefit from big companies in Israel outsourcing the manufacture of new products born out of research and development in Israel.

Israeli Ambassador Rafael Harpaz

PRESS CONFERENCE. Israeli Ambassador Rafael Harpaz answers questions of Cebu journalists during a press conference after a courtesy call with the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry. With him are Honorary Consul of Israel in Cebu Emily Benedicto-Chioson (standing), his wife Shulamit, and Deputy Chief of Mission Yulia Rachinsky-Spivakov .

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Events Lifestyle Travel

Hong Kong Disneyland offers wicked fun with Disney Halloween Time 2018

MyCebu Brand Content

October 25, 2018 9:21 am October 25, 2018

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Hong Kong Disneyland Resort presents the most wickedly fun celebration during Disney Halloween Time from September 13 to October 31, 2018. Halloween Town, where Jack Skellington and his mischievous friends…

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort presents the most wickedly fun celebration during Disney Halloween Time from September 13 to October 31, 2018. Halloween Town, where Jack Skellington and his mischievous friends from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” wreaked havoc, will be recreated at the all-new “Journey to Halloween Town” immersive walkthrough experience, challenging brave souls to face down the “Pumpkin King” and his friends.

Disney friends and villains are getting ready for wicked encounters with guests at Mickey’s Halloween Time Street Party and Halloween Time Festival Gardens. Duffy’s newest friend, Cookie, will also show off her first Halloween attire and join the party. At night, the park will be hauntingly fun, when Disney villains come out to join Villains Night Out! Chapter 3 and turn the park upside down.

In true Disney Halloween fashion, an extensive range of themed merchandise and food and beverage items will be available, along with spooky Halloween decor and fun-filled recreation activities across the resort’s three themed hotels, ensuring that all Pinoy guests can enjoy a “play, shop, dine, and stay” getaway at HKDL this autumn.

Reliving “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” at the all-new “Journey to Halloween Town”

“Pumpkin King” Jack Skellington and Oogie Boogie from the stop-motion classic “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” will loom large at the Main Gate of the park to herald Disney Halloween Time 2018. Themed decorations will point the way to the brand-new walkthrough experience, “Journey to Halloween Town,” at The Pavilion.

Get ready for an unforgettable journey, filled with iconic music and scenes from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Venture into Dr. Finklestein’s Lab, where Jack Skellington’s friend Sally is desperate for guests’ help. Beware of the evil Oogie Boogie, out to trap guests in his lair. Brave guests are invited to find out if they have what it takes to tackle blood-curdling Halloween Town! And don’t miss the Jack Skellington and Friends Halloween Time Character Greeting.

Disney friends revel in the Halloween spirit all day long

Guests will experience the brighter side of Disney Halloween Time at Mickey’s Halloween Time Street Party. Every afternoon, Mickey, Minnie and Goofy will appear atop three giant Jack-o’-lantern whirlies with other Disney friends and a host of parade performers to greet guests and share the joy.

Guests should have their cameras ready to capture immersive Disney character greetings from day to night! Mickey, Minnie and the whole gang will be sporting their brand-new Halloween costumes – with a touch of regal purple – to embrace the spirit of the occasion. Duffy’s new friend, Cookie, will appear in her first Halloween outfit, marking her Halloween debut together with Duffy, ShellieMay, Gelatoni and StellaLou.

At Halloween Time Festival Gardens, Winnie the Pooh and other Disney friends, in their Halloween costumes, will greet guests for photos during the day. Young guests can also learn to make Jack Skellington-themed paper masks and then go trick-or-treating. After dark, the gardens will be taken over by Disney’s infamous baddies for some wicked fun for everyone.

Disney villains and spectacular shows add thrills to dark nights

The park atmosphere turns ominous as the sun goes down, when fearsome Disney villains come out in force to join Villains Night Out! Chapter 3. This year, Maleficent leads the malevolent Ursula, the Evil Queen and Jafar in the procession. They will be joined by Jack Skellington, Captain Hook, the Queen of Hearts and Cruella de Vil to cause merry mayhem as they march along Main Street, U.S.A. Do not miss the big finale, as Maleficent ends the show on a fiery high note.

Bringing a celebratory tone to the night time experience, guests can enjoy the vibrant and colorful “We Love Mickey!” Projection Show along Main Street, U.S.A. every evening! This surprise party pays tribute to Mickey Mouse’s major milestones and features his memorable classics, his full-color heyday, and a crazy kaleidoscope of Mickey in modern styles.

We Love Mickey Projection Show.

We Love Mickey Projection Show.

Spoiled for choice with extensive Halloween merchandise and F&B creations

A bumper line-up of close to 100 Halloween themed merchandise items, from apparel to accessories, toys and home décor, will keep guests busy hunting for favorite keepsakes. Limited-edition pins commemorating the 25th anniversary of “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” are definitely collectibles. The Duffy and Friends’ collection highlights their newest Halloween outfits, exclusive to HKDL. The reversible Tsum Tsum plush toys instantly change Disney friends into Halloween looks. The new HKDL-exclusive Boo collection introduces the fun of playing “peek-a-boo” to uncover a Disney character. Guests can also dress up as a family in the new apparel collection from the Mickey and Friends assortment.

More than 20 new Halloween-themed snacks and drinks will be introduced in the park and hotel restaurants. The Halloween Mickey Ring at Main Street Bakery will be sure to put anyone in the mood for Halloween, as will the new Sesame Egg Puff and Jack Marshmallow Vanilla Cookie, available at Outdoor Vending Carts. The Purple Myst and Green Devil Special Drink adds plenty of fizz to the occasion. At Crystal Lotus in the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, Jack’s Party dim sum set, featuring Jack’s Shrimp Dumpling, Crispy Pumpkin Scallop Puff and Mummy Vegetable Bun, looks almost too good to be devoured.

Why not take a breather from all the excitement and settle down for a character-themed Halloween set menu at Main Street Corner Cafe hosted by Coca-Cola? For a change of pace, enjoy a parent-child DIY cookie decoration activity while relaxing over a family buffet at Chef Mickey at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel.

Enjoy a complete Halloween resort vacation

Halloween fun extends to the resort hotels with a host of Halloween activities for hotel guests to enjoy. Young guests may unleash their creativity by making exclusive Disney handcrafts like tricky Jack door tag, learn to make towel Sally and tricky treaty candy bag. Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel and Disney Explorers Lodge will immerse young guests in challenging themed games.

All hotels will also be delightfully, frightfully decorated. Taking the magic up a notch, guests can enjoy the Halloween Wicked In-Room Overlay for HK$899 from September 13 onwards. The room decoration package includes amenities box, slippers, door sticker, a pumpkin hamper with candies, wicked hats, cookies, a plush toy plus priority admission pass to “Journey to Halloween Town” and Halloween Playtime exclusively for hotel guests for a complete Halloween resort vacation.

Magical experiences fill Hong Kong Disneyland day and night

Seasonal entertainment will continue at the resort for the rest of year as Mickey and friends will share Christmas carols for a heart-warming celebration of “A Disney Christmas” from November to January 1, 2019. Festive fun will be introduced as Christmas tree lighting and romantic snowfalls create magical experiences for guests.

A rich line-up of one-of-a-kind experiences fill the park with magic day and night. The transformation of Hong Kong Disneyland’s castle is fully underway. The brand-new live atmosphere stage show “Moana: A Homecoming Celebration” in Adventureland marked the celebration of the first exciting entertainment offering under HKDL’s multi-year expansion spanning from 2018 to 2023. Next year, an all-new attraction: “Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle!” the second Marvel ride-through experience at the resort – will debut as the park continues to expand its Marvel-themed area.

There is always something new to discover at HKDL, and guests from the Philippines are invited to visit the resort every season to experience Disney magic!

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CCCI recognized as most outstanding chamber in Visayas

October 23, 2018 3:55 pm October 23, 2018

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For its key role in accelerating business growth in Cebu, the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) was awarded the Most Outstanding Chamber in the Visayas. The award was…

For its key role in accelerating business growth in Cebu, the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) was awarded the Most Outstanding Chamber in the Visayas.

The award was given by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) during its 44th Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) last October 18 at the Manila Hotel.

CCCI outstanding chamber award

OUTSTANDING CHAMBER AWARD. President Rodrigo Duterte, assisted by PCCI Chairman George Barcelon and PCCI President Ma. Alegria Limjoco and other PCCI officers, hand the award for CCCI to President Antonio Chiu.

CCCI was cited for its exemplary leadership and dynamism, strong advocacy program, increased membership base, and effective delivery of services.

The award was handed over by President Rodrigo Duterte, along with PCCI officers.

CCCI special citation

SPECIAL CITATION. Receiving the award are CCCI President Antonio Chiu, Executive Director May Elizabeth Ybañez, and other CCCI staff.

CCCI was also given a special citation to recognize its pioneering efforts in education, training development and workforce capacity building by institutionalizing the establishment of the Assessment, Certification and Accreditation System (ACAS) unit.

The ACAS unit contributes to PCCI’s vision to empower our human resources by providing them with the skills, competencies, and qualifications that will lead to gainful employment or self-employment. (Press Release)

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Megaworld to build Spanish-inspired residential tower in The Mactan Newtown

October 23, 2018 3:17 pm October 23, 2018

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To be built in time to mark the 500th year of the circumnavigation of the world by the ship that inspired its name, the La Victoria Global Residences will add…

To be built in time to mark the 500th year of the circumnavigation of the world by the ship that inspired its name, the La Victoria Global Residences will add 181 units to the residential inventory at the 30-hectare township The Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City.

“We launch this tower 500 years after Magellan was appointed captain of Galleon Victoria’s expedition and we hope to complete this in 2022 when we commemorate the ship’s 500th year of circumnavigation,” said Megaworld Cebu Properties, Inc. President Noli Hernandez.

The building is the 4th residential tower at the township in Lapu-Lapu City. It will have 20 storeys with 181 units ranging from studio of up to 40 square meters, 1-bedroom units of up to 53 square meters, 2-bedroom units of up to 80 square meters, and 3-bedroom units of up to 118 square meters.

Megaworld La Victoria Global Residences Noli Hernandez

NEW RESIDENTIAL TOWER. Megaworld Cebu Properties, Inc. President Noli Hernandez with an artist’s rendering of the La Victoria Global Residences, the company’s 4th residential tower at The Mactan Newtown.

P1.5 billion projected sales

Hernandez said units will be sold starting at about P160,000 per square meter. He said the company projects total sales of the project to reach P1.5 billion.

All units will have their own balconies that face the sea and mountains, Hernandez said during the press announcement today in Cebu City.

The main lobby of La Victoria Global Residences “will be designed with elements and installations that are significant to the Spanish expedition,” he said.

He said that the tower will have an amenity deck at the 3rd level with an infinity pool and kiddie pool. It will also have a covered pool lounge and wooden sunbathing deck.

Megaworld La Victoria Global Residences

LAUNCHING. Megaworld Cebu Properties, Inc. President Noli Hernandez and Megaworld Corp. Senior Assistant Vice President and Head, PR & Media Affairs Harold Geronimo talk about La Victoria Global Residences during its launch in Cebu today.

Right in the center

“La Victoria is actually right in the center of the whole township. We are placing so much importance on this project not only because it signals the success of our township but also because of its historical significance,” he said.

Megaworld launched in 2011 its 1st residential development in the township, 8 Newtown Boulevard. It was named Best Luxury Condo Development in Cebu in the 2016 Philippines Property Awards and the Outstanding Residential High-Rise Development in the 2016 Real Estate and Property Awards by FIABCI-Philippines.

The following year, the company launched One Pacific Residence. This won the Best Residential Architectural Design in the 2017 Philippines Property Awards, the company said. In 2016, Megaworld launched One Manchester Place.

Most units, except for a very few, have been sold, said Hernandez.

La Victoria Global Residences at The Mactan Newtown.

La Victoria Global Residences at The Mactan Newtown.

More tourists expected

“We already sold out 3 residential projects and more foreign retirees still looked for properties in our townships. More people who found work inside the Mactan Newtown are also looking for their own residential spaces,” Hernandez said.

“In a few years we also expect more tourists to come to our townships as we bring our 2 Megaworld homegrown hotel brands: Savoy Hotel and Belmont Hotel to the Mactan Newtown,” he said.

The Mactan Newtown is Megaworld’s only township that has its own beachfront. The company said it hosts 10,000 BPO and office workers. It is also the location of the Lasallian-supervised Newtown School of Excellence.

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The Travel Club Trade-In Sale goes to Cebu, Davao

MyCebu Brand Content

October 21, 2018 3:08 am October 21, 2018

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Donate an old luggage and get up to 40% discount on top brands, as The Travel Club presents its highly-anticipated Trade-In Sale for the very first time in Cebu and…

Donate an old luggage and get up to 40% discount on top brands, as The Travel Club presents its highly-anticipated Trade-In Sale for the very first time in Cebu and Davao from October 25-28, 2018.

The four-day event will happen in The Gallery at Ayala Center Cebu in Cebu and include the lineup of brands housed at The Travel Club: Delsey, Briggs and Riley, Traveler’s Choice, Victorinox, and World Traveler.

Established in 1992 as a premiere concept store that carries and impressive array of top-of-the-line products, The Travel Club is committed to making travel smooth and hassle-free.

Discount on travel gears

This season, it comes up with the Trade-In Sale as one way to connect with the travelling community.

Throughout the event, customers can donate their pre-loved luggage and bags in exchange for discounts of up to 40 percent on new travel gears.

In Davao, the sale will be held at The Travel Club store in Abreeza Mall.

For travelers with a penchant for adventure, The Travel Club also offers brands such as The North Face, Sea to Summit, Nalgene, and Eagle Creek.

To diversify its product range, the store also began carrying a range of lifestyle bags from brands like JanSport, Herschel, Granite Gear, Hedgren, Sakroots, and Healthy Back Bag. More than just a store, The Travel Club takes pride in providing travelers with insightful tips and helpful advice through store personnel who are adept in the field of travel.

Overseas Filipino workers

Apart from being a great opportunity to shop for new travel items, The Travel Club Trade-In Sale is also a chance for travelers to take part in a good cause. Teaming up with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the pre-loved items that will be turned-over to The Travel Club will be donated to the agency that looks after the welfare of overseas Filipino workers.

To avail of the exclusive discounts during The Travel Club Trade-In Sale, customers simply have to bring in their old luggage or bags such as business cases, laptop cases, messenger bags, shoulder bags, duffle bags, and backpacks.

The discounts will be on a one-to-one basis wherein one donated bag entails only one discount for a bag. Customers who will be bringing in items for trade-in can avail of special discounts on featured collections and items, which will range from 15% to up to 40% discount. However, the discount will be dependent on the item to be purchased and not on the traded-in item.

Discount voucher

Discounts are not valid in conjunction with any other ongoing store promotions and markdowns or on sale items. If a customer is unable to choose any item from the product selections at the venue, the sale number tags may be exchanged at the cashier for a 15% discount voucher valid in all The Travel Club branches nationwide. The voucher may be used until December 21, 2018 and cannot be converted into cash or exchanged for other items.

A one-stop shop for all kinds of travelers with varying needs and preferences, The Travel Club wants to ensure that everyone gets access to the best luggage and accessories to make their travel experiences comfortable and memorable.

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Accenture recognized for future-proofing workforce with digital skills

October 14, 2018 11:11 am October 14, 2018

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MANILA – Accenture is the recipient of the Talent Development Program award from the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP). The award recognizes Accenture’s ongoing employee…

MANILA – Accenture is the recipient of the Talent Development Program award from the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP). The award recognizes Accenture’s ongoing employee training and learning initiatives for new and emerging technologies in the digital economy.

Accenture was commended for developing learning roadmaps that leverage digital platforms, mobile solutions, and collaboration tools to help employees upskill and reskill faster. Programs range from virtual learning and online learning boards to playhouses and innovation competitions. In addition, the association noted the importance of Accenture’s collaboration with industry and the academic community to foster an innovative culture among its employees.

Accenture was among the six top companies named under IBPAP’s Talent Development Program this year.

Accenture Talent Development Program award

AWARD. Accenture’s Human Resources Lead in the Philippines, Ira Reyes (center) received the Talent Development Program award from the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) during the recent IBPAP HR Summit. Accenture was recognized for developing learning and training programs that enabled employees to become conversant in new and emerging technologies and job-ready in the digital economy. With her are (from left) Aleth De Las Armas, IBPAP Talent Development High Impact Program Lead for Talent Attraction; Tata Medado, IBPAP Talent Development High Impact Program Lead for Industry-Academe Partnership and APC President; Cathy Ileto, IBPAP Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees and Head of Technical Working Group on Country Competitiveness; and Monchito Ibrahim, Undersecretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology.

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Marco Polo Plaza Cebu tops Cebu Goes Culinary 2018

October 12, 2018 1:10 pm October 12, 2018

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Marco Polo Plaza Cebu reigned supreme in the recently concluded Cebu Goes Culinary 2018 held at SM Seaside Cebu. Cebu Goes Culinary happens every two years and the participants are…

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu reigned supreme in the recently concluded Cebu Goes Culinary 2018 held at SM Seaside Cebu.

Cebu Goes Culinary happens every two years and the participants are different hotels, schools and establishments that are members of HRRAC – Hotel Resort & Restaurant Association of Cebu.

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu Cebu Goes Culinary

HIGHEST AWARD. Marco Polo Plaza Cebu got a Gold with Distinction for Table Setting, which means all judges awarded them 100 points. Restaurant Supervisor Loren Paul Escalante said that his work was inspired by how his grandparents would do traditional dinner dates.

Bagging the Overall Champion award in the professional category, the hotel garnered medals and diplomas in 18 out of the 20 categories that they participated in.

The highest award of Gold with Distinction was given to the hotel’s team who participated in the category Table Setting. Restaurant Supervisor Loren Paul Escalante said that his work was inspired by how his grandparents would do traditional dinner dates. They are the only team in the entire competition (including in all the other categories) to have received Gold with Distinction, which means all judges awarded them 100 points.

“It feels amazing since it is so difficult to achieve a perfect score in Table Setting. The judges are very technical and traditional in terms of table appointments,” said Escalante.

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu Cebu goes Culinary

FOOD STYLING AND PHOTOGRAPHY. The hotel got a silver award for this entry.

Other categories that Marco Polo Plaza received awards are in the following – For gold: Entremetier, Happy Hour, Cocktail Mixing, Pralines and Baby Chocolate Cake. For silver: Modern Chef, Soup Bowl, Coffee Concoction, Plated Desserts, Food Styling & Photography, Creative Cake Deco, Flairtending, and Klasika Kulenarya. For Bronze: Pantry Chef, and finally for Diploma: Napkin Folding, Wedding Cake and Chef Wars.

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu Cebu Goes Culinary

OVERALL CHAMPION. Marco Polo Plaza Cebu was named overall champion in the professional category after its contingent got medals and diplomas in 18 of the 20 categories that it joined.

Marco Polo Plaza General Manager Brian Connelly shared a heart-warming message to the participants immediately after the awarding. He said, “Team, as you know I am not one for a loss of words. However, tonight I am struggling to find superlatives to describe my intense pride, sincere appreciation and professional respect for all of our associates who worked so hard to make this happen. A team is made of selfless individuals and leaders who together create a sum that is greater than the parts. Please allow me to extend my genuine heartfelt congratulations to all of those individuals who made today a hotel memory that will never be forgotten. After almost 30 years of being a General Manager, you have all made me the proudest I have ever been to be in a hotel team. Salamat.”

Marco Polo Plaza will feature some of the award-winning drinks and dishes at the hotel soon. (Press Release)

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu Cebu Goes Culinary

CHEF WARS. The Marco Polo Plaza Cebu team in action.

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