This is the roundup of stories that came out in local publications today, Aug. 1.

Drinking ‘miracle water’ may lead to illness

After thousands of church-goers began trooping to the San Roque Chapel in Bask-Pardo to drink the supposedly ‘miracle water’ that started seeping from a crack in the wall, a health official issued the warning of the hazards of drinking unsafe water since the source of the water has not been determined yet.

A test should be conducted to determine whether the water is safe or not…we will also coordinate with the Cebu City Health office for updates. Rennan Cimafranca, DOH RESU 7 head.

Read: Cebu Daily News: Don’t drink miracle water.

Freeman: Priest to raise issue of ‘miracle water’ with Archbishop Palma

Related: Indian skeptic faces charges after proving ‘miracle water’ in Mumbai was from sewage pipe

Mayor Tomas’ pet project gets red light

After a Canadian expert said the P10.6 Bus Rapid Transit in Cebu was not a feasible move, the project faces further road bumps after the implementation was put on hold.

The new administration needs to be briefed on the status of the BRT, the causes of delays in the previous administration and what needs to be done. BRT Cebu Project Manager Atty. Rafael Yap.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: BRT Cebu faces more road blocks.

Cebu Daily News: Urban Planning professor says BRT not viable for Cebu

Stewardess entices ma with fake promo to kidnap boy

Michelle Collamar is now on hospital arrest after she allegedly enticed Gelyn Salimbaga with a fake promo in an attempt to kidnap her child last Saturday. Salimbaga said she and her one-month old baby were offered a ride by Collamar, who invited her to join a program for mothers that supposedly offered free groceries and cash. She was told to get the birth certificate of her child and when she left the boy in her car to retrieve it, she was no longer there when she returned.

A CCTV footage captured the car’s conduction sticker and they managed to trace the address of Collamar.

She was approached by the woman who was driving a red Hyundai Eon and who invited her to buy some groceries and allegedly offered her P1,000 as well. Dili unta siya mokuyog. Napugos siya’g sakay libot-silbot sil ana, storya-storya. Unya gisugo siya sa babaye nga ipakuha ang birth certificate sa bata. PO3 Cliffton Manogura of the Fuente Police Office.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: Stewardess who suffered miscarriage uses fake name, promo to kidnap one-month old from ma.

Other Cebu News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Business leaders seeks clear policy on ‘endo’

» Sun.Star Cebu: Contractuals struggle with five-month stins in agencies

» Sun.Star Cebu: Tokhang surrenderees under surveillance

» Sun.Star Cebu: Cosap to conduct follow-ups on Tokhang surrenderees

» Sun.Star Cebu: 8 foreigners resuced after boat conks out in Danao

» The Freeman: 8888, 911 hot-lines go operational today

» The Freeman: Church backs gov’t’s effort to help Tokhang surrenderees

» The Freeman: Capitol to hold aid to NGOs that failed to comply with COA policy

» The Freeman: Lapu-Lapu to start tight security for Ironman on Aug. 4

» The Freeman: Cebu City Council defers P10M allocation for Inayawan sans permit

» Cebu Daily News: Series of vigilante killings instill fear in drug pushers

» Cebu Daily News: COA says Capitol fails to remit P17.3 in taxes, GSIS premiums

» Cebu Daily News: Lack of trucks, unpaid collecters add to Cebu City’s garbage woes

» Cebu Daily News: Yoly to continue husband Teban’s work in Capitol

» Cebu Daily News: Pusher wounded in Marigondon buy-bust

Cebu Business News

» The Freeman: Presidential assistant for Visayas heads investment forum in Cebu

» The Freeman: Primary Properties open new market in Minglanilla

» Sun.Star Cebu: CCCI holds business summit for Bantayan

» Cebu Daily News: Rise of startups raises demand for co-working spaces in Cebu

» Cebu Daily News: Davide wants to convert airstrips in Northern Cebu to airports

Cebu Sports News

» Sun.Star Cebu: PHL team falls short in World Youth Bowling championships

» The Freeman: Tepora drops foe four times in first round, retains belt

» Cebu Daily News: Competitors test bike route for Ironman

Cebu Opinion

» Sun.Star Cebu Editorial: Caveat for digital learning

» Bong Wenceslao: Reality bites for Duterte, NDF

» Bobby Nalzaro: Questions raised on MCIAA lot deal

» Cheking Seares: Gov’t, not suspect, has burden of proof

» Anol Mongaya: Is PHL ready for peace

» Lelani P. Echaves: How can one be bored in this world?

» The Freeman Editorial: It’s time for a mass-transport system in Cebu

» Bobit Avila: Monday ceasefire ends on Friday

» Jerry Tundag: CPP’s duplicity exposed in failed ceasefire

This is the roundup of top Cebu news stories today, July 27, 2016.

CHR 7 to probe drug suspects death in police shootings

The Commission on Human Rights will investigate cases of extrajudicial killings of drug suspects in Region 7, 24 hours after President Rodrigo Duterte said “human rights shouldn’t be used to destroy a country.” Leo Villarino, the CHR-7 chief investigator, said they were ordered by their Manila office to investigate the deaths of drug suspects who were killed in “shootouts with policemen.”

We need to look into what police say are cases of shootouts. These investigations are covered by the memo from the CHR central office. We already sent subpoenas to concerned police units for them to provide us with their own investigation reports. Leo Villarino, CHR 7 chief investigator.

Read: Cebu Daily News: PRO7 chief welcomes CHR probe on death of drug pushers.

DILG to suspend mayors who fail in anti-drugs war

DILG secretary Ismael Sueno said mayors and governors may face administrative charges if they don’t support the campaign against illegal drugs. Sueno, who said they plan to put up four rehabilation centers in Cebu for the anti-drug effort, said the mayors and governors may face serious neglect of duty charges should the drug problem in their LGUs worsen after six months.

We will suspend them and we will lift their deputation powers over the police…By the end of December–the sixth month since our intensified campaign against illegal drugs started–we will go after mayors and governors in areas where illegal drugs are still rampant. And we will suspend them. DILG secretary Ismael Sueno.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: DILG secretary warns LGUs of penalties if they waver in fight against drugs.

Freeman: DILG secretary urges mayors, governors to take action against drugs

Cebu Daily News: Inept mayors, governors to lose Napolcom deputation powers.

Experts study rail options in Cebu

A team of experts from Singapore is doing a feasibility study for the proposed LRT plan in Cebu according to Michael Dino, the presidential assistant for the Visayas. The study for the LRT, announced by President Rodrigo Duterte in his SONA last Monday, is expected to be finished in October.

It’s a very good plan, to focus on the public transport system in Cebu. We’ve long wanted it to materialize. We in the local government units should also do our share. Here in the Province of Cebu, we will try our best to accomplish what the President wants. Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: Experts study LRT system in Cebu.

Freeman: Local leaders, businessmen welcome LRT plan for Cebu

Cebu Daily News: Dino says multi-billion LRT project in Cebu to be built through Private Public Partnership.

Other Cebu News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Officials respond to Duterte’s orders in SONA

» Sun.Star Cebu: Three dead in latest operations against drugs

» Sun.Star Cebu: Inmate walks away from jail by pretending to visitor

» Sun.Star Cebu: CCUVA members stage anti-Osmena rally in front of City Hall

» Sun.Star Cebu: Archdiocese to open doors to recovering addicts

» The Freeman: 4 men, including teen, among latest casualties in drug war

» The Freeman: City Council asks DILG to investigate Osmena’s ‘questionable memos’

» The Freeman: Cordova mayor’s husband files libel charges against radioman for ‘drug lord’ tag

» Cebu Daily News: Alcover wants Osmena probed for ordering recall of guns, vehicles

» Cebu Daily News: Confessed drug lord Barok now out of isolation

» Cebu Daily News: Central command welcomes truce with communist rebels

» Cebu Daily News: Cebuanos welcome Duterte’s plan to cut taxes.

 

Cebu Business News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Local leaders laud Duterte’s move for faster, free Internet

» The Freeman: CCCI head lauds DU30’s plan to provide financing for MSMEs

» The Freeman: Analyst changes projection for PHL telecom industry

» Cebu Daily News: Tax reform will make PHL more competitive

 

Cebu Sports News

» Sun.Star Cebu: SWU Cobras returns to Cesafi high school basketball

» The Freeman: Tapales eyes world title in Thailand fight

» Cebu Daily News: USJ-R to play with just 10 men in Cesafi basketball

 

Cebu Opinion

» Sun.Star Cebu: Does PHL have the resources to fulfill DU30’s promises?

» Orlando Carvajal: Duterte shows his bias for the poor in Sona

» Bong Wenceslao: Du30’s unilateral ceasefire pins CPP in a corner

» Bobby Nalzaro: Duterte changes stance on media

» The Freeman editorial: Did Duterte clear Peter Lim in SONA?

» Korina Sanchez: Duterte stays true to form in first SONA

» Jerry Tundag: Don’t question silence over EJK, instead pay more attention to it

This is the roundup of top Cebu news stories today, July 26, 2016.

 

Finally, mass transit in Cebu

President Rodrigo Duterte promised the traffic-suffering residents of Cebu and Davao will finally get a respite, promising a mass transit system will be realized in his term of office.

“ We shall pursue rail projects in Manila and the major key points in the country. I am not bragging; this is for real. Six years, this will get done. I assure because it is going to materialize. Rail projects like the Davao transit system, the Cebu transit system.” President Rodrigo Duterte.

“ We welcome that. I was very happy to hear that because he mentioned Mindanao first and I was hoping that he would also mention Cebu, which he did. He mentioned us. We can expect that we will not be forgotten.” Rep. Raul del Mar.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: Duterte vows to put up mass transit systems in Cebu, Davao

 

SONA gets positive response in Cebu

President Rodrigo Duterte went beyond the projected 38-minute limit of his first State of the Nation Address, which had people laughing instead of moving them to tears as promised by Malacanang. However, the almost two-hour long speech was received well by local leaders and the local business community.

“I’m definitely glad that President Duterte said he will pursue a more equitable and more efficient tax system to foster investment and job creation. This will level the playing field with our Asean neighbors and foster global competitiveness. He also vowed to cut processing time for permits and licenses. We look forward to the realization of these plans.” Melanie Ng, president of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

“He was really straightforward. He’s really coming out strong. Maybe he’s really the person we’ve been needing all this time…I’m just happy there were no more curses.” Cebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: Local leaders happy with Duterte’s first SONA.

Cebu Daily News: Local politicos laud Duterte’s move to end vindictiveness.

Residents rescue baby dumped in Lapu-Lapu.

Residents rescued a newborn who was placed inside a box and abandoned in front of a sari-sari store in Barangay Pajo, Lapu-Lapu City.

“I didn’t notice at first because I was busy. My neighbor called my attention when he heard a noise.” Mussah Ustal, resident who rescued abandoned baby.

Read: Freeman: Cops to probe identity of mother of abandoned baby.

Other Cebu News

» Sun.Star Cebu: DU30 vows no let-up in war against drugs

» Sun.Star Cebu: Undermanned PRC Mandaue overwhelmed by sheer number of LET applicants

» Sun.Star Cebu: PRO 7 chief admits, group offered services to finish off pushers

» Sun.Star Cebu: Tommy goes on leave, appoints Labella, City Admin as acting mayors

» Sun.Star Cebu: Another pusher bites the dust in Tejero

» Sun.Star Cebu: Mandaue demolishes 73 structures in Mahiga Creek

» The Freeman: Capitol OKs scholarship of PWDs, children of drug surrenderees.

» The Freeman: 40 of Cebu City’s barangay captains sign manifesto against illegal drugs

» The Freeman: 12 die in weekend operations against drugs

» The Freeman: Lawyer clarifies, none of 57 special bodies in Cebu City hall was abolished

» Cebu Daily News: SONA rallyists satisfied with Duterte’s SONA

» Cebu Daily News: What income? Funeral homes see no profit amidst rise of casualties in war against drugs

» Cebu Daily News: Barangay captains hope Tomas reconsiders decision on cash aid, recall of vehicles

» Cebu Daily News: Chief PNP shows funny side in viral video

» Cebu Daily News: PRO 7 head turns down offer by vigilantes to go after drug pushers

Cebu Business News

» The Freeman: AXA sees bullish growth in millenial market

» the Freeman: Mactan airport sees 12 percent increase in traffic

» Sun.Star Cebu: AXA opens ninth branch in Tagbilaran

» Sun.Star Cebu: Metro Gaisano to open new branch in Bais City

Cebu Sports News

» The Freeman: Top bets dominate Shell Cebu chess tournament

» Sun.Star Cebu: Kenyan Olympic medalist helps Tabal prepare for Rio marathon

» Cebu Daily News: Cebuano represents PHL in international karatedo tournament

Cebu Opinion

» The Freeman editorial: Will 911 work in Cebu?

» Atty. Ian Mantijacon: Will bureaucrats follow Duterte FOI?

» Ruben Almendras: Filipinas getting more empowered

» Atty. Josephus Jimenez: Duterte delivers one of the best SONAs

» Bobit Avila: Federalism promotes better governance

» Cheking Seares: Does silence over killings show indifference?

» Nini B. Cabaero: Visayas in the Sona

» Sun.Star Cebu Editorial: Democratic institutions face test in Duterte admin

» Publio Briones: Brilliant director overthought Sona

This is the roundup of top Cebu news stories today, July 21, 2016.

Good news for Cebu, Capitol to offer free WiFi access all over province

SIXTH district board member Thadeo Jovito “Jonki” Ouano wants Cebu Province to provide free WiFi access in all public places in Cebu. The proposed ordinance, which will get a P5 million funding if approved, hopes to establish free WiFi hotspots in areas owned by Cebu Province, including health centers, hospitals, state colleges, libraries, gymnasiums and terminals.

I see the need for it, especially now where most of us get our information from the internet, from the weather, traffic and news updates. Personally, I get 90 percent of the information that I need through the internet. Sixth District Board member Thadeo Jovito Ouano.

Read: Cebu Province eyes free WiFi access in public areas.

 

Mayor Osmeña says no to offer to head Metro Cebu board

Cebu City mayor Tomas Osmeña declined Liberal Party ally and Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III’s offer to head the Metro Cebu Development and Coordinating Board, saying the post is too time consuming. The offer was Davide’s reaction to Osmeña’s announcement that he will have Cebu City pull out of MCDCB, saying the Mega Cebu program is a “waste of time and resources.”

I don’t want to be part of that. Six years, what projects have they done? I just want to tell you something that the biggest players in the Philippines responded because what I have to say make sense. What I see out of Mega Cebu is all dreaming. It’s a wish list. Floating in the Sky. Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena.

Read: Freeman: Tomas says no to offer to be MCDB chairman.

Sun.Star Cebu: Tom spurns offer to head Metro Cebu board.

 

Chinese tourist caught with shabu in Mactan airport

A Chinese tourist from Hunan City, on her third visit to Cebu since January this year, was caught with 11 packs of shabu worth P6.2 million in her luggagge. Speaking through an interpreter, Zhou Liming claimed she had no idea the drugs were in the luggage as a friend only requested that she bring it with her and hand it to a Filipino couple.

I think the challenge now is to strengthen the capability to detect illegal drugs for departing passengers. It’s easier to detect drugs from arriving passengers because of the Customs X-ray and PDEA k-9 dogs. Paul Villarete, MCIA general manager.

Read: Freeman: Chinese tourist from Hong Kong nabbed with P6 million worth of shabu in luggage.

Cebu Daily News: Cops to probe Chinese tourist’s contacts in Cebu.

 

Other Cebu News

» Sun.Star Cebu: 75 police station chiefs in region 7 face relief over failure to meet target in war against drugs

» Sun.Star Cebu: Suspected pusher shot dead in front of friends

» Sun.Star Cebu: Three fall in drug busts in Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City

» Sun.Star Cebu: 229 surrenderees in Sogod to undergo rehab

» Sun.Star Cebu: Swat cop accused of manhandling worker denies allegations

» The Freeman: Cebu City can’t order reblocking of Capitol area affected by fire

» The Freeman: Lawyer assaulted by vice mayor’s wife determined to pursue case

» The Freeman: Team Rama councilors host forum to gather people’s sentiments vs. Tomas

» Cebu Daily News: COA chides Capitol—why spend P1 million for food?

» Cebu Daily News: Malacanang sa Sugbu to reopen in October

» Cebu Daily News: PRO 7 orders 126 police precints to restart Oplan TokHang

» Cebu Daily News: Couple convicted for trafficking own children

Cebu Business News

» Sun.Star Cebu: DOT to reconvene tourism council to address industry issues

» Sun.Star Cebu: Smart promotes satellite services

» The Freeman: Investors’ confidence on Duterte good for PHL economy

» The Freeman: DOE urges NPC to address electric coops’ concerns

» Cebu Daily News: Gov’t urge to reduce greenhouse gases in other areas.

 

Cebu Sports News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Mr. Coffee holds first football cup at DBTC on Aug. 21

» The Freeman: Wekaf world championships start today in JCenter Mall

» Cebu Daily News: Y101 Cup to offer new format, bigger prizes

 

Cebu Opinion

» Sun.Star Cebu Editorial: Power play at Cebu City Hall

» Publio Briones: Why not follow law on plastic ban?

» Bong Wenceslao: Despite Supreme Court acquittal, Arroy can’t claim she is spotless

» Checking Seares: Aguilar’s simple solution not so simple

» Freeman Editorial: Osmena should be the leader he was elected to be

» Atty. Josephus Jimenez: PHL should stop sending domestic helpers abroad

This is the roundup of top Cebu news stories that came out today, July 20, 2016.

 

Cebu City council authorizes Labella to attend Mega Cebu board meetings.

A privilege speech by Councilor Raymond Garcia led to the Cebu City council voting, 11-6, to authorize Vice Mayor Edgardo Labella to attend the Metro Cebu Development Coordinating Board meetings. The speech was a reaction to Mayor Tomas Osmena’s announcement that he doesn’t want Cebu City to be a part of Mega Cebu. The resolution will authorize Vice Mayor Labella to represent the council and not Cebu City.

If we do not attend such discussions, then I fear that we will be left out in important discussions and plans outlined for our great city…No man is an island and in like manner, no city can solve its problems by itself. Cebu City Councilor Raymond Garcia.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: Cebu City Council authorizes VM Labella to attend Metro Cebu Board meetings.

Cebu Daily News: Gov. Davide urges Tomas to reconsider stance vs. Metro Cebu board.

 

Strong winds batter boat

Sudden strong winds sank a passenger boat in Lapu-Lapu City an damaged a cargo ship and other pump boats in the City of Naga. Eleven passengers and three crew members of the Nathan Express, which conked out at 2:05 p.m, was just five meters away from the shore when it was hit by big waves.

Kusug gyud kaayo ang hangin ug dako ang bawod. Naghinay-hinay ug sulod ang tubig mao tong nitikyaob ang pump boat. Ug wala unta to namatay ang makina, maka-maneuver ra unto to. Dili to masudlan ug tubig. PO1 Marlou Bretania of the Mactan Police Station.

Sun.Star Cebu: Pump boat sinks five meters off shore due to strong waves.

Cebu Daily News: Strong winds uproot tree in Talamban.

Freeman: Heavy rains point to presence of La Nina

 

War vs. drugs update: Lim confident of clearing name.

Cebuano businessman Peter Lim, publicly named by President Rodrigo Duterte as a drug lord, is confident of clearing his name from the accusation. Lim, who met Duterte last week in Davao, said he will comply with the president’s instructions in submitting himself to an investigation.

Yes, I will go to the NBI (Manila) to comply with the president’s instructions to have myself investigated so they could help me clear my name…so I’m submitting myself freely to the NBI. Peter Lim.

Read: Freeman: Peter Lim says Sen. Tito Sotto identified real Peter Lim the drug lord in 1997 privilege speech.
Related News.
Sun.Star Cebu: New Cebu City police chief vows zero tolerance for erring cops.

Sun.Star Cebu: Reshuffling sees 29 Central Visayas cops getting combat assignments.

Cebu Daily News: PNP Chief reassigns relieved cops to lead fight against Moro rebels.

 

Other Cebu News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Capitol fire razes 70 houses

» Sun.Star Cebu: Mandaue City postpones issuance of fines against plastic ban violators

» Sun.Star Cebu: Talisay Swat officer in trouble after alleged mauling

» Sun.Star Cebu: Talisay City creates committee to solve traffic problem

» Cebu Daily News: Davide urges PNP chief to name mayors, cops involved in drug trade

» Cebu Daily News: Dr. Duterte returns as CCMC head

» Cebu Daily News: Council questions Tomas’ order creating Barangay Mayors Office

» Cebu Daily News: 26 of 27 journalists test negative for drugs

 

Cebu Business News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Plastic ban raises demand for bags for fish, meat products

» Sun.Star Cebu: AppleOne Properties to venture into low-cost housing

» The Freeman: Asian Development Bank predicts slowdown of PHL growth for rest of 2016

» Cebu Daily News: Report shows spike in number of Chinese tourists to Cebu

 

Cebu Sports News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Cebuana Olympian thankful for increase in allowance for Rio

» The Freeman: PHL out to reclaim overall title in Wekaf Championships

» Cebu Daily News: Prodigal Lancer wants to return, UV boss says no

 

Cebu Opinion

» Sun.Star Cebu Editorial. PHL’s favorite tag team—Rody and Bato

» Orlando Carvajal: Tomas Osmena’s alarming actions

» Bong Wenceslao: Tomas is angrier than ever

» Bobby Nalzaro: Tomas is as vindictive as before

» Januar Yap: Amend the 10 commandments

» The Freeman Editorial: Peter Lim episode is the new narrative

» Jerry Tundag: Change should also come in sports

 

This is the roundup of top Cebu news stories today, July 19, 2016.

 

DOH reports 159 percent increase in dengue cases

The first half of the year saw a 159 percent increase in dengue cases in Region 7, with most victims belonging to the 6 to 10 years old bracket. There were 6,066 dengue cases and 49 deaths from Jan. 1 to June 18 this year, a significant increase from last year’s number of 2,340 cases and 12 deaths.

We just had El Nino. Atong gi-emphasize sa atong katawhan nga ayaw mo kapanatag o relax nga El Nino wala’y dengue. Because there are still breeding places, fewer maybe, and these mosquitoes naa sila’y peculiar properties or pamatasan nga kung tag-init kay mas paspas sila mangitlog. Province Health Officer Dr. Cynthia Genosolango.

Read: Freeman: Region 7 sees 159 perence hike in Dengue cases.

New Zealand health industry seeks more Pinoy workers

New Zealand’s Ambassador to the Philippines David Strachan said demand for Filipino workers in his country remains at an all time high as their country opens almost 11 nursing homes annually for their aging population. The ambassador,
who said he wants to forge closer ties with Cebu, said Filipino nurses are the most preferred in their fields, hopes more Pinoy join their healthcare industry.

New Zealand is already experiencing difficulties in recruiting medical practitioners and training specialists in geriatric care, and if training programs do not develop the skills needed to care for older people, then the health workforce is likely to face increased strain in delivering care as our population ages…taken overall, the projections suggest population aging will bring significant increases in the demand for both primary and hospital health services. New Zealand study on its health industry.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: New Zealand cites rising demand for Pinoy health workers.

Bato asks Tommy: Don’t abandon police

After confirming that some of the police officials in Cebu who were transferred were involved in the drug trade, Police Director General Ronald dela Rosa asked Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena not to abandon the police in its war against drugs. Osmena earlier said he will stop helping the police in the war against drugs due to the relief of former Cebu City police chief Senior Supt. Benjamin Santos.

Pasensya na Sir, kung nahiubos ka nga gipangtanggal namo ang imohang city director, ang imong mga pulis nga na-identify gyud sa illegal drug trade. Prangkahanay to, pasensiya na, ing-ani ka tininuod among kumbati run. PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: Bato hopes Osmena reconsiders abandoning war against drugs.

Freeman: Bato tells Tommy, please don’t abandon us.

Cebu Daily News: PNP chief confirms some relieved officials receive money from drug lords.

Other news on the war against drugs

Freeman: 2 pushers killed in latest anti-drug drive.

Sun.Star Cebu: Loot welcomes probe into island allegedly used for shabu lab.

Sun.Star Cebu: Bato says Duterte will reveal lists of mayors involved in drugs.

Sun.Star Cebu: Top drug personality in Sambag 1 surrenders to police.

Cebu Daily News: Retired justices join PNP legal team; vow to help cops with lawsuits

Cebu Daily News: Tommy dares DILG to sue him for abandoning war against drugs.

Cebu Daily News: PNP chief admits, there’s no evidence against Peter Lim.

Cebu Daily News: Defense Press Corps undergo drug testing.

Other Cebu News

» The Freeman: 3 Tejero students ‘possessed’

» The Freeman: Capitol sets aside P11.3 million to battle locusts

» Sun.Star Cebu: Mandaue City to issue citations vs. violators of plastic ban

» Sun.Star Cebu: JVR’s son faces libel charges for defaming former councilor

» Sun.Star Cebu: Anonymous group to reward cops in war against crime

» Sun.Star Cebu: Tommy ends financial aid to non BOPK barangays

» Cebu Daily News: Osmena says Labella has no right to represent city in Mega Cebu board

» Cebu Daily News: Capitol eyes scholarships for children of drug pushers, addicts

» Cebu Daily News: COA questions Cebu City’s failure to release real tax share of barangays

 

Cebu Business News

» The Freeman: BIR answers Duterte’s call to cut red tape, streamlines process for TCC issuance

» The Freeman: 711 reports 30 percent increase in profits for first half of 2016

» Sun.Star Cebu: Prince Hypermart to hold sari-sari store festival

» Cebu Daily News: DTI chief eyes P1 billion credit access to boost MSMEs

» Cebu Daily News: Cobonpue urges entrepreneurs to think of unique ideas

 

Cebu Sports News

» The Freeman: UC wins pre-season tilt in Cordova

» Cebu Daily News: Pinoy Aquaman prepares for English channel swim

 

Cebu Opinion

» The Freeman Editorial: Robredo should learn the art of political finesse

» Atty. Ian Manticajon: Extra-judicial killings an indictment against PHL judicial system

» Ruben Almendras: How to win against China?

» Atty. Josephus Jiminez: Why are vigilantes on the rise?

» Bobit Avila: Three million Filipinos are into drugs?

» Leo Lastimosa: Nikalit daghan ang eksperto kontra drugas

» Sun.Star Cebu Editorial: Cebu City leaving MDCDCB is not Metro Cebu’s loss

» Publio Briones: Osmena can now focus on other concerns

» Bong Wenceslao: How will former military man straighten out Talisay City traffic?

» Checking Seares: Case of Peter Lim getting more odd by the day

» Frank Malilong: Former mayor Mike Rama should just shut up

This is the roundup of top Cebu news stories today, July 18, 2016.

Pasil opposes P27-billion bridge because it will affect residents’ sleep, displace people

Barangay Pasil in Cebu City issued a resolution opposing the construction of the Cebu-Cordova bridge. The P27-billion, 8.25 kilometer bridge will use 7.5 meter of space in each side of the Guadalupe River and will displace residents in Barangay Pasil. One of the ramps that will connect to the bridge will be constructed at the South Coastal Road part of the Guadalupe River and that could displace people living in Sitios Lawis, Lawis Riverside, Concepcion Riverside and Tikaban Riverside. The council also said the construction of the mega-project could also disturb the sleep of the residents.

Barangay Pasil resists and defies the proposed construction of the third bridge that will traverse perpendicular along Guadalupe River. However, another venue will be more acceptable as a proposal. Barangay Pasil resolution.

Di man mi against sa improvement sa Guadalupe River, pero daghan lang gyud ang maapektaran. Dako kaayo na nga trabahoon. Madisturbo and tulog inig ka gabii kay saba na kaayo. Residential man ang naa sa coastal area. karon lang gani, madungog namo nang dagkong sakyanan gaagi sa SRP. Pasil Barangay captain Julius Guioguio.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: Pasil wants P27-billion Cebu-Cordova bridge moved, says construction will disturb residents’ sleep, displace residents too

The Freeman: Tomas says Cebu-Cordova bridge project won’t displace residents.

Cebu Daily News: Pasil issues resolution against construction of Cebu-Cordova bridge.

 

Whale watch stakeholders meet in Oslob

DENR officials will meet with officials of Oslob and the Provincial Government to come up with guidelines to regulate the whale watching industry in the Southern town. The meeting hopes to come up with measures to identify which activities will be prohibited since the International Union of Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species recently included whale sharks as endangered. Oslob Mayor Jose Tumulak Jr. said the dialogue should not be limited to governement officials.

The drivers of motorcycle-for-hire and jeepneys, as well as the resort owners and the residents of Tan-awan who rely on the whale-watching activities may also be affected. Oslob Mayor Jose Tumulak Jr.

Read: Cebu Daily News: DENR wants to regulate interaction with whale sharks in Oslob.

Will the real Peter Lim please give up?

PRO 7 director Chief Supt. Noli Talino wants the other Peter Lims to follow what the first Peter Lim did, surrender to President Rodrigo Duterte to clear his name. Lim, the Cebu-based businessman who has denied involvement in the drug trade despite being publicly mentioned by Duterte, met the president in Davao City last Friday to clear his name. There are 4,000 Peter Lims in the country, including 110 in Cebu based on Comelec records.

Kung inaakala nila sila ang tinutukoy na Peter Lim mag-surrender na sila. PRO 7 Chief Supt. Noli Talino.

 

Other War against drugs news

Sun.Star Cebu: Cuenco says DOJ, PNP failed to help Congress in probe 2001 against drug lords.

Sun.Star Cebu: Carcar police chief discloses threat, says drug lords have put bounty on cops due to anti-drug ops.

Freeman: Lapu Lapu mayor wants drug surrenderees to get jobs at Mactan airport construction

Cebu Daily News: Peter Lim, Duterte stood as sponsors in Cebu wedding.

Other Cebu News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Rama urges Metro Cebu board to forget Tomas, invite VM Labella in meetings

» Sun.Star Cebu: Madrid-based NGO to donate 15 computers to Bogo school

» Sun.Star Cebu: DENR urges LGUs to catch rainwater to prevent flood

» Sun.Star Cebu: 27 senior citizens survive bus accident in Pit-os

» Sun.Star Cebu: New Talisay traffic chief orders enforcers to go after illegal tricycles

» The Freeman: COA questions Capitol’s P16.6M loans to unlisted coops

» The Freeman: 35 families lose homes to Sunday blaze in Tejero

» Cebu Daily News: Cebuano mother helps fellow HIV positive individuals

 

Cebu Business News

» Sun.Star Cebu: BIR to close two shops for failing to pay right taxes

» Sun.Star Cebu: Architect urges officials to improve urban transport systems

» The Freeman: PHL external trade improves by 1.9 percent to $129.9 billion in 2015

» The Freeman: Survey shows problems of Philippine export industry

» The Freeman: PHL stock exchange to trade at 8,100 level this week

» Cebu Daily News:DOT wants PHL to be aggressive in hosting international events

» Cebu Daily News: New Zealand eyes Cebu’s education, tourism sectors

 

Cebu Sports News.

» The Freeman: ALA Boys whip foes in Idol 2

» Sun.Star Cebu: Cebuano bowlers ready to take on world’s best in World Youth Championships

» Cebu Daily News: USJ-R stuns UST to win Recoletos Cup

 

Cebu Opinion.

» Sun.Star Cebu: How will citizens deal with confessed addicts, pushers?

» Bong Wenceslao: Who is the real Peter Lim?

» Bobby Nalzaro: Peter Lim’s courage to face Duterte may help him

» Cheking Seares: Lim’s fate, guilty until proven innocent

» The Freeman Editorial: Our reward, in our 97th anniversary, is your story

» Bobit Avila: Cardinal Vidal scores PR coup after meeting Duterte

» Jerry Tundag: Column writing is instructive for both reader and writer

This is the roundup of stories that came out in local publications today, July 11, 2016.

Magazine names Cebu as 6th best island in the world.

A monthly travel magazine based in New York City has named Cebu as the sixth Best Island in the World based on its survey of its readers. Cebu got 88.65 points in the survey conducted by T+L and was described as an island offering “excelling diving and island-hopping.” T+L said hiking, swimming with whale sharks, and diving from the top of a waterfall are just a few of the activities visitors can try in Cebu.

“There is never a dull moment in Cebu…it is perfect for travelers who don’t want to spend a lot of money on recreational activities.” — T+L reader on World’s Best Awards survey.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: New York City travel magazine cites Cebu as sixth-best island in the world.

The World’s Best Islands according to T+L are:

1. Palawan, Philippines
2. Boracay, Philippines
3. Ischia, Italy
4. Waiheke Island, New Zealand
5. Santorini, Greece
6. Cebu, Philippines
7. Maui, Hawaii
8. Hilton Head, South Carolina
9. Kauai, Hawaii
10. Bali, Indonesia

 

SWAT cop caught in Toledo drug den

Just days after Toledo City mayor John Osmeña criticized his police officials of having no “balls” to go after illegal drugs, the city’s police force caught a SWAT officer suspected of coddling drug pushers in raid last Saturday night. P02 Ronjie Nadorra, who was assigned in Bogo City, is the first cop caught in the act in Cebu since President Rodrigo Duterte took office last June 30. He was formerly assigned at Naga City, but was transferred due to numerous advances and suspicions of drug use.

“In my own assessment, it was clear in his movements and expressions that he used drugs.” — Supt. Richard Oliver, Bogo Police Station Chief.

Read: Cebu Daily News: SWAT office caught sniffing shabu.

Sun.Star Cebu: Cop nabbed in Toledo drug bust.

Other news on the war against drugs

Sun.Star Cebu: Latest tally, 3 killed in anti-drug operations in Talisay, Dalaguete, Asturias.

Sun.Star Cebu: 175 yield to authorities in Minglanilla, vow to leave drug trade.

Sun.Star Cebu: Cuenco says 2006 probe did not clear Peter Lim.

Freeman: PRO 7 head wants 70 police chiefs to explain lax effort in battle vs. drugs.

Freeman: 3 days after vowing to leave drug trade, teen pusher nabbed with P367,000 worth of shabu.

Cebu Daily News: Intel chief says Jaguar’s right hand man has taken over drug trade.

Cebu Daily News: Drug den owner faces charge.

 

Cebu City Hall to hire new “non-partisan” teachers

Councilor Joy Young wants to replace 280 day care workers in Cebu City with college graduates who will then be told to stay off politics.  Young said the appointment of day care workers have become a political exercise and most are fielded during the campaign period.

“Every barangay elections, the day care workers are replaced. We trained them, then they are replaced, that’s why I’m angry. I warned them that I don’t want them to get involved in politics, if they are asked to join campaigns, they may as long as they don’t make much noise.” — Councilor Joy Young.

Read: The Freeman : 280 day care teachers to lose jobs.

COA suspends Cebu City’s cash incentive program

The COA wants the giving of P30,000 bonus to Cebu City Hall workers due to the absence of individual accomplishment, appraisal or evaluation reports from the Civil Service Commission. Under the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence, each regular and casual employee in Cebu City is entitled to P30,000 worth of bonus.

“Cash incentive granted should have been supported with individual evaluation reports assessing the performance and conduct of each employee by means of the agency Praise committee’s established system of incentives and awards.” —  COA in memo to Cebu City.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: COA blocks P30,000 incentive to Cebu City Hall workers
Cebu Daily News: City Hall must prove workers deserve P30,000 bonus–COA memo

Other Cebu News

» Sun.Star Cebu: 2 killed in street accidents

» Sun.Star Cebu: Gullas reinstates Dr. Bacaltos as Talisay College head

» Sun.Star Cebu: Osmeña wants probe on workers who use middlemen, cites mysterious P18M to ‘invisible’ supplier

» Sun.Star Cebu: Naga opens new Olympic-size swimming pool

» The Freeman: Barangay captain accused of coddling Jaguar seeks help from Team Rama

» The Freeman: Cebu City starts processing recipients of free medicine

» Cebu Daily News: As plastic ban starts, Mandaue urges wet market goers to bring own eco bags

 

Cebu Business News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Developers hope Robredo will streamline process for permit

» The Freeman: Asian Development Bank head backs DU30’s 10-point economic agenda

» The Freeman: Mandaue Chamber to consult members on city’s plastic ban

» Cebu Daily News: Tuburan’s fishing, farming sectors get boost from LGU

 

Cebu Sports News

» The Freeman: Mexican shatters Pagara’s unbeaten record, world title hopes

» Cebu Daily News: Pagara vows to comeback after crushing defeat

» Sun.Star Cebu: Olympian to make pro debut in Who’s Next boxing series

 

Cebu Opinion

» Sun.Star Cebu Editorial: Violence will only lead to more violence

» Bong Wenceslao: Osmeña should focus on governance, not influence peddling

» Cheking Seares: Who’s the real Peter Lim the drug lord?

» Anol Mongaya: Fr. Romano was also an anti-drugs advocate

» The Freeman Editorial: Robredo’s strange way into Duterte cabinet

» Bobit Avila: Did Noynoy allow PHL to become a narco-state?

» Korina Sanchez: Two more days until UN court releases judgement on West Philippine Sea.

» Jerry Tundag: Instead of probing police ops, Senate should summon PNoy first.

This is the roundup of top Cebu news stories today, July 7, 2016.

2 Mandaue City Hall workers lose jobs over online game

TWO employees at the Mandaue City Hall lost their jobs after they were caught playing an online game during working hours. Mandaue City mayor Luigi Quisumbing, who posted a photo of the two on Facebook, said the two workers assigned at the City Planning and Development Office were caught playing Dota by an employee, who took a photo and sent it to his lawyer Mae Elaine Bathan.

“This photo of the incident was taken a few days ago, but we have been receiving reports that this has been the practice of some employees. we know who they are. They just lost their jobs this morning. I’m sure everybody knows that they should not be doing this.” — Mayor Luigi Quisumbing.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: Playing Dota at work leads to Mandaue City Hall workers’ dismissal.

Freeman: Quisumbing fires workers for playing online games at City Hall.

Build dams to battle floods

The Metro Cebu Development and Coordinating Board is recommending three things to battle the flooding menace in Cebu. Engr. Fortunato Sanchez Jr says Cebu needs to implement an integrated drainange network plan, resolve road right of way issues and to build big dams to battle floods.

“There is a dire need for all stakeholders to act on (drainage plan) esepcially as Cebu City is a densely-populated city made vulnerable to floods since it is surrounded by mountainous barangays. Rainwater from the sloped areas will seep through the city heading to the open sea.” — Engr. Fortunato Sanchez Jr.

Read: Freeman: Metro Cebu Development Board wants integrated drainage plan to battle flooding problems.

Cebu Daily News: DPWH secretary vows swift, relentless action to solve Cebu’s flooding, traffic woes.

Sun.Star Cebu: DPWH blames clogged drainage for Cebu’s flood menace.

Retired police general Loot is a multi-millionaire

Daanbantayan mayor and former police general Vicente Loot is a multi-millionaire with over P110 million assets, based on the latest SALN he filed. Loot, one of the five generals named by President Rodrigo Duterte who allegeldy protected drug lords, listed 10 vehicles, a sports car, two jet skis, a speedboat, 12 house and lot units, four agricultural lots, beach front properties, a lending company and a cockpit arena as some of the properties he owned when his wife Maria Luisa, the former Daanbantayan mayor, submitted a SALN in 2011.

“I really want to clear my name. Whatever they want to happen, I will oblige. And I welcome any investigation to be conducted just to find out the truth. I and my wife are used to being accused of being drug protectors by political opponents. We really don’t care about it. But this one is different. The accusations came from the mouth of the President and it hurts.” — Former police general Vicente Loot.

Read: Cebu Daily News. Daanbantayan mayor wants to meet DU30, PNP chief to clear name

Related News: Sun.Star Cebu: Talisay City mayor praises DU30, but urges public not to judge 5 generals.

Sun.Star Cebu: Gen. Loot vows to prove that he never coddled drug lords.

PRO 7 says 49 percent of barangays in Region 7 infested with drugs

Senior Supt. Rey Lyndon Lawas of PRO 7 said 1,189 of 2,446 barangays in Region 7 are infested with drugs based on their records in the first quarter of the year. In Cebu City, all 80 barangays face a drug proble, while in Mandaue 27 villages have junkies or drug pushers.

“There are identified drug users or drug pushers in these barangays.” — Senior Supt. Rey Lyndond Lawas.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: PRO 7 records show all barangays in Cebu City face drug menace.

Other news on the war against drugs

Sun.Star Cebu: 3 more pushers die in latest police ops in Bacayan, Lahug.

Sun.Star Cebu: Catmon mayor’s younger brother joins surrenderees in war vs. drugs.

Sun.Star Cebu: Toledo mayor wants Dumpit as police chief, cites lack of faith in current chief in battle vs. drugs.

Sun.Star Cebu: CIDG nabs minor, 6 others in drug rain in Lapu-Lapu City.

Freeman: Tomas questions removal of Commendador, threatens to stop anti-drug ops if PNP reshuffle continues.

Freeman: PNP’s operation tukhang nets 97 more pushers, users.

Cebu Daily News: PNP officers in Lapu undergo suprise drug test.

 

Other Cebu News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Pawnshop lose P88,000 in daring morning robbery in Lapu-Lapu City

» Sun.Star Cebu: Tomas cancels P12,500 transpo, communication allowances of department heads, other employees

» Sun.Star Cebu: Talisay City asks Capitol help to solve flooding problem

» Sun.Star Cebu: COA says Cebu City wasted P12 million by dealing with middlemen

» Cebu Daily News: NBI says Bohol priest did not commit suicide but was murdered

» Cebu Daily News: Tomas to tap former Cebu Investment Promotions Center head Joel Yu to manage South Road Properties

Cebu Business News

» Sun.Star Cebu: SilkAir vows to help PH boost tourism numbers

» Sun.Star Cebu: National economic board to deliberate on proposed P9.9 billion container port in Consolacion

» The Freeman: Think tank urges Duterte to ease restrictions on foreign ownership

» Cebu Daily News: Local leaders back gov’t plans for 24/7 work on government projects

» Cebu Daily News: Mandaue City business owners support mayor’s plan for total ban vs. plastic

Cebu Sports News

» Sun.Star Cebu: New Zealand eliminates Gilas Pilipinas

» The Freeman: Gallant Gilas loses to France

» The Freeman: Fun run backs Cebu Sports Commission’s grassroots program

» Cebu Daily News: Cebu Lady Dragons ready to defend turf

Cebu Opinion

» Bong Wenceslao: Tommy still creative as ever in making foes pay

» Checking Seares: Public shaming of generals, a ‘cruel and unusual punishment’

» Elias Espinoza: Is general Loot a victim of politics?

» Publio Briones: Online buzz over Duterte’s public shaming doesn’t reflect country’s true sentiment

» Bobit Avila: Indiscriminate throwing of garbage a major culprit in flood problem

» Cherry Ballescas: Flooding problem a blessing in disguise for Cebu

» Cebu Daily News editorial: Restoring public faith and trust

This is the roundup of top Cebu news stories today, July 5, 2016.

Osmeña’s unique idea: A Department of Fixers

Showing he is not afraid to offer unconventional ideas, Cebu City mayor Tomas Osmeña is planning to legitimize fixers and put up a Department of Fixers at Cebu City Hall to streamline operations and address concerns and complaints of people transacting there.

The new department will be regulated and controlled to prevent abuses said Osmeña, who likened it to how the Cebu Investment and Promotions Center was used to be run. He also said he will implement a “no wrong number policy’ and that people working City Hall should act like waiters and not pass off customers concerns if they are not directly related ot their job.

“You know that’s the way CIPC used to run. An investor comes in and they will fix it for you. Anything. Whatever your problem is, they will fix it for you. Is this attorney good? They’ll let you know. IS this contractor good? They’ll give you three to choose from. They make it user-friendly. City Hall will have something like that….They will be just like waiters. If City Hall were to run as a restaurant, people would complain because you go there and they would ask what you want. Hamburger sandwich? Sorry, I’m not the waiter for hamburger sandwich. Who’s the waiter for hamburger sandwich? I don’t know. It’s the same in City Hall. Here, you call any office. They’ll say it’s not my job. You ask who’s in charge? The answer’s always, I don’t know. Then they’ll keep redirecting you to person after person…What it should be like is this: you go to a restaurant and order hamburger? Sure! You want salad? Sure! Want lettuce, want bread, whatever? You want me to adjust the aircon?” — Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña.

Read: Cebu Daily News: A first in the country, Osmena to create Department of Fixers to address City Hall concerns.

Related News: Sun.Star Cebu: Osmena wants CPAs, lawyers and doctors in City Hall to resign if they can’t devote full time work to city.

New PRO 7 chief echoes President Duterte’s anti-drug push; 289 drug personalities give up

The strong anti-drug push nationwide has resulted to the surrender of thousands of suspects pushers and admitted users. In Cebu, 289 persons–inculding a 15-year-old fourth grader and a 16-year-old drop out–turn themselves in in Cebu (127), Mandaue (131) and Consolacion (31). Five of the top drug pushers in Consolacion were among those who surrendered.

“We believe that this is because of the presidentñs commitment to eradicate illegal drugs. We want to make sure that this change they undertake is a permanent one.” Mandaue City mayor Luigi Quisumbing.

“Kahadluk mani gud kay naa lang makita sa agianan nga nangamatay.” 38-year-old confessed pusher Jona Sepada.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: 289 drug personalities heed the call to surrender in Mandaue, Cebu and Consolacion.

Other anti-drug related news

» Sun.Star Cebu: In Carcar, Naga, 90 drug users, pushers surrender to police.

» Cebu Daily News: New PRO 7 director, a former SAF chief, urges cops with drug ties to quit now or be hunted.

» Cebu Daily News: Love of family pushes some pushers to surrender to cops.

» Cebu Daily News: PRO 7 director leads cops in surprise drug test.

» Cebu Daily News: Another drug dealer killed in operation by Lapu-Lapu police.

» The Freeman: Cop chief asks for help from community, barangay to battle drug menace.

» The Freeman: Teen, grand ma among drug suspects who yielded to cops

Mandaue, Cebu City present anti-flood solutions

Mandaue City Mayor Luigi Quisumbing wants the plastic-ban implemented strictly in his city, while Mayor Tomas Osmeña is looking at catchment basins in N. Bacalso to solve the flooding problem in both city. Though Quisumbing said garbage isn’t the main cause, he acknowledged that is one of the major causes of flooding in his city and he wants the plastic ban, delayed for six years, to be implemented soon.

Osmeña, on the other hand, the P700-million project in N. Bacalso will be implemented next year.

“This is already six years delayed. Whether we don one week, one month or one year of implementation, at the end of the day, we are going to do this. We have to do this. There is really no alternative. If we are not going to do this, well, we should only have ourselves to blame kung naay baha.” — Mandaue City Mayor Luigi Quisumbing.

“Why underneath N. Bacalso? Because there’s no right of way there, then the road will still be there on top of the water tank.” — Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena.

Sun.Star Cebu: Tomas, Luigi present solutions to flooding problems.

Other Cebu News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Public officials told, don’t be ignorant of the law, follow them

» Sun.Star Cebu: COA issues another red flag on City Hall, this time on P14M allowances

» Sun.Star Cebu: Norwegian, partner nabbed for forcing model to have sex with him

» Sun.Star Cebu: DPWH teams inspect creeks, flood-prone areas as storm approaches

» Sun.Star Cebu: Ombudsman asks 6 VSMMC top officials to explain involvement in scheme involving Philhealth funds

» Sun.Star Cebu: Davide declares failure of bidding on P200 million equipment deal

» Cebu Daily News: With typhoon looming, authorities prepare evacuation plans for fire victims in CICC

» Cebu Daily News: Butchoy unlikely to make landfall

» Cebu Daily News: Davide-supported Provincial Board vows to be independent

» Cebu Daily News: Mandaue traffic official receives reward for staying put despite heavy rain

» The Freeman: Malacanang declares July 6 a national holiday

» The Freeman: In lieu of Miss Cebu, Tomas wants to make Sinulog Festival Queen grander

 

Cebu Business News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Immigration expert says Pinoys still want to pursue American dream

» Sun.Star Cebu: Locals told to promote products to tourists

» Cebu Daily News: Business leaders welcome DTI push to promote MSMEs in mainstream market

» Cebu Daily News: Modernization push to benefit Cebuano agri-entrepeneurs

» The Freeman: Lamudi urges DU30 to reward green building developers in PHL

» The Freeman: New tourism chief should ask LGUs to revive local tourism councils

Cebu Sports News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Cesafi to continue life-preserving policies, require officials to learn CPR

» Sun.Star Cebu: CDU holds 11th edition of Cebu’s longest-running fun run

» Cebu Daily News: Valdez to hold volleyball clinic in Cebu

» Cebu Daily News: Cebu province to hold running, futsal tournament as part of annivesary celebration

» The Freeman: UST Tigers to join USJ-R basketball tournament

 

Cebu Opinion

» Sun.Star Cebu Editorial: Tomas needs to come up with long-term solution to flood problem

» Publio Briones: Why is long time Cebu official Tomas only saying now that Miss Cebu is elitist?

» Nini Cabaero: Pag-asa mobile apps help keep public informed

» Checking Seares: Instead of canceling Miss Cebu, why not privatize annual pageant?

» Cebu Daily News Editorial: Despite number of surrenderees, war on drugs is far from over

» Ricky Poca: Tomas, Digong’s new terms offer welcome developments

» Malou Apalisok: Tomas is scrapping Miss Cebu for the wrong reasons

» The Freeman Editorial: VP Leni must scrap bus rides, learn to be security conscious

» Atty. Joseph Jimenez: Brewing rebellion in Comelec.

» Ruben Almendras: Will Cebu traffic get worse like Manila’s?

» Rene Borromeo: Anugon kay gi-pulihan dayun si Comendador

This is the roundup of top Cebu news stories today, July 4, 2016.

You thought Friday’s flood was bad? Brace for more as storm approaches

JUST three days after a monstrous traffic jam caused by an hour-long heavy downpour, Cebuanos were advised to get ready for more heavy rainfall as tropical storm Butchoy enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility. Cebu and Mandaue—which suffered the worst of the floods last Friday—are already preparing their disaster response. Pag-asa said 217.7 mm of rainfall hit Cebu on July 1 and 2, which already exceeds the average for the month of July, which is 202 mm.

“On Tuesday, we will be on red alert. No more personnel on off duty. All personnel 24/7 on standby.” — Mandaue City’s DRRMC Chief Felix Suico

Read:

• Cebu Daily News: Cebu braces for more floods as storm approaches.
• Freeman: Mandaue City clears clogged canals in preparation for storm.

Mandaue, Cebu implement flood solution methods

After getting hit by one of the worst floods in recent memory, Mandaue City and Cebu City are implementing various methods to address the perennial problem. Cebu City is planning to add more water catchments in 28 mountain barangays, to stem the flow of water downtown, while Mandaue City will continue to dredge creeks and waterways. It has also banned the use of plastic in the city.

“Instead of having so much water like what happened last Friday, the catchments will serve as basins. The streaming water will likely be lesser.” — Engr. Josefya Ylanan, Cebu City Department of Engineering and Public Works head

Read:

• Sun.Star Cebu: Cebu wants more water catchments to control flooding.
• Cebu Daily News: Tomas says Rama blocked implementation of drainage master plan.

Quisumbing wants strict implementation of traffic rules

Mandaue City mayor is encouraging traffic enforcers to be strict in implementing traffic rules and to report to him those who use his name to get away with violations, even if these are his family members. Mandaue City is notorius for its traffic jams for years, worsened by the various road repairs being done in the city and rampant violations by PUJs and private cars.

“If anyone commits a violation and uses my name and you report it, I will give you a reward. If you catch my car or any of my family committing a violation and issue a citation, I will give an even bigger reward.” — Mandaue City Mayor Luigi Quisumbing

Read:

• Freeman: Quisumbing wants enforcers to go hard against traffic violators, including officials, family members.
• Cebu Daily News: Quisumbing promises rewards for enforcers who do their jobs well, and swift actions against those who don’t

 

Other Cebu News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Citing lack of funds, Tomas to stop staging of ‘elitist’ Miss Cebu

» Sun.Star Cebu: Cops kills pusher who tried to fight back during drug bust

» Sun.Star Cebu: Pinoys, Digong inspire American sculptor to make bust of president

» Sun.Star Cebu: Cops uproot P4.2 million worth of marijuana in Balamban

» Sun.Star Cebu: Scavengers elated by reopening of Inayawan dumpsite

» Sun.Star Cebu: Councilor Cabrera says City is looking for new dump site as part of closure plan for Inayawan

» Sun.Star Cebu: 12-year-old falls to his death in Carcar City waterfalls

» The Freeman: Malacanang to declare July 6 a national holiday

» The Freeman: Board authorizes Gov. Davide to sign deed of sale of 93-1

» Cebu Daily News: Anti-Marcos group refutes BBM’s allegations of cheating in Cebu

» Cebu Daily News: Morning fire damages Lapu-Lapu City apartment

» Cebu Daily News: Briton faces human trafficking charges for pimping seven women online

 

Cebu Business News

» Sun.Star Cebu: BPO sector to benefit from Duterte’s anti-crime drive

» Sun.Star Cebu: Exporters say ‘procedural lapses at home’ hinder growth

» The Freeman: Glenn Soco takes over as head of Mandaue Chamber of Commerce

» The Freeman: More Pinoys now into travel cruises

» Cebu Daily News: Deca homes founder cites understanding of market as secret to success

» Cebu Daily News: Cebu businessmen to send 10-man team to foster trade links with Canada

 

Cebu Sports

» The Freeman: Carcuevas rule Naga-Uling race

» Sun.Star Cebu: Ateneo accuses UV of punching player during pre-season tournament

» Cebu Daily News: Cebuana star to join FEU volleyball team

 

Cebu Opinion

» Bong Wenceslao: Friday’s rain was normal, imagine the chaos of ‘abnormally heavy rainfall’

» Bobby Nalzaro: Tracing the history of MCIAA’s multi-million peso deal

» Checking Seares: Nice quotes, but Duterte had no specifics during inaugural speech

» Anol Mongaya Mahiga Creek becoming a touchy political subject in light of recent flooding.

» Lelani Echavez: Rodrigo Duterte, an acquired taste for some

» Mike T. Limpag: Family appeals for help for injured player

» Jerry S. Tundag: Marcos may have lost but he has won the larger issue hounding family

» Bobit Avila: Flooding in Osmena proof of poor drainage

» Atty. Gloria Ramos: We all had a role in Cebu’s massive flooding

» Lloyd Suarez: Kita, dili si Duterte, angay musulbad sa problema sa basura.

» Rico Navarro: Gilas chases Olympic hoops dream

This is the roundup of top Cebu news stories today, July 1, 2016.

Let’s all dance to the tune of change.

Local leaders, and even the local chapters of militant groups, are echoing President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for change during his inauguration yesterday in Malacanang. Bayan-Central Visayas chairman Jaime Paglinawan said a coalition of farmers, workers, students, women, drivers and other sectors, have drafted a 15-point people’s agenda, which their counterparts in Manila presented to Duterte yesterday.

“Naglaum mi nga sa dihang paglingkod ni Duterte, maghatag og bag-ong color ug kinabuhi diha sa mamumuo, sa mga kabus ug ingon man sa atong ka-estyudyantehan nga ang mga palisiya dili unta kontra-katawhan, kon dili mga palisiya nga maghatag og kasiguraduhan ngadto sa mga katawhan.” — Father Ray Gelloagan, United Church of Christ in the Philippines.

“That (reducing red tape) is precisely what I wish the president will work on. It is Congress that passes all of these laws that is very hard to work with. So now, it is a mess. We’re going to change things. We don’t care if they have clearances. Just pay your taxes.” — Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena.

Read: Freeman: Militants pin hope on Duterte’s call for change.

Sun.Star Cebu: Cebuano politicos, business leaders support Digong’s call for change.

Related news:
Sun.Star Cebu: Tough-talking Digong vows to cut red tape in government, wants redundant processes removed

Cebu Daily News: CCCI head lauds Duterte’s strong message in inaugural speech.

Cebu Daily News: CA staff celebrate Duterte’s inauguration by showing unity.

Cebu Daily News: VP Robredo calls for national unity, vows to work for the poor.

Tomas to cut City Hall’s politicized payroll; cites ambulances having 20 personnel each as example of waste of funds

Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena warned employees that he will not be afraid to boot out employees caught for corruption, even if they are his appointees. Osmena said he has suspended almost 400 employees since his first year as mayor who were caught for corrupt practices. He also cited the Cebu City Medical Center as one of the most-corrupt department in City Hall, citing the numerous instances of medical supplies getting stolen.

I have the intention to bring down our payroll. It’s very bloated. Its so politicized and I don’t know what they are doing. For instance, every ambulance has 20 personnel. They can’t even fit inside the ambulance. — Mayor Tomas Osmena.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: Tomas Osmena warns City Hall workers he will go hard on corruption.

Cebu Daily News:Tomas vows to streamline City Hall operations, to get rid of unwanted employees.

 

Mike to sue for libel people who accused him of using drugs

Former Cebu City mayor Mike Rama said he and his family has been hurt by accusations that he is into drugs and coddled drug lords and is asking his allies to sue the accusers for libel. During a speech in the oath-taking of Team Rama councilors, the former mayor asked his allies–especially the lawyers–to check those who accused him of being into illegal drugs.

My family has been hurt, wounded and my relatives in America has been teeling me why I am not making an issue about it. Wala gyud ko magtuo jasta akong mga paryente, wala magtuo nga mamahimo kong addict after 24 years of serving the public. Former Cebu City mayor Mike Rama.

Read: Sun.Star Cebu: Rama asks allies’ help in filing libel case against accusers.

Freeman: Rama urges allies to continue fight in City Hall.

Other Cebu Stories

» Sun.Star Cebu: Rival camps in Barili sing song of unity

» Sun.Star Cebu: 84 pushers, addicts turn themselves in to Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu police as Digong takes office

» Sun.Star Cebu: Slain drug lord offered P5M to neutralize would-be killers

» Sun.Star Cebu: Davide promises to be transparent in new term

» The Freeman: Courts suspend hearings in July for records disposal

» The Freeman: Davide out at detractors in oath-taking speech

» The Freeman: PRO 7 chief urges addicts, pushers who surrender to bring drugs

» Cebu Daily News: Quisumbing to tackle traffic, garbage and drug problem as new Mandaue mayor

» Cebu Daily News: Veteran Sonny O won’t jump political parties

» Cebu Daily News: Gullas vows to improve Talisay’s services, promises free health care for seniors, PWDs

» Cebu Daily News: Self-confessed drug lord Barok gets unwanted Aussie as cell mate

 

Cebu Business News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Gaisano capital puts up new convention center to address rising demand

» Sun.Star Cebu: Megaworld to spend P10 billion for five hotels

» The Freeman: Cebu business leaders sing praises over Duterte’s speech

» Cebu Daily News: Investments, improved infrastructure to help Region 7 hit tourism target

 

Cebu Sports News

» Sun.Star Cebu: Rotarians hope to raise P9 million in anti-polio triathlon drive

» The Freeman: Pagara brothers hope to score twin victories in US card

» Cebu Daily News: SWU joins League of Champions

 

Cebu Opinion

» Orlando Carvajal: Jaguar’s generosity may have been for self-interest

» Bong Wenceslao: Robredo in for a challenging time as VP

» Cheking Seares: Duterte pulls surprise with vow to adhere to due process

» The Freeman editorial: Metro Cebu traffic needs special attention

» Jerry Tundag: Duterte hits the right notes in inaugural speech

» Bobit Avila: Duterte shows presidential side in inauguration