The meeting between Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro and First Lady Liza Marcos was a necessary and official engagement directly aligned with Cebu’s mandated role in the preparations for the ASEAN Summit, where the province is positioned as a key host and logistics center. As the duly elected Governor of Cebu, Baricuatro bears the responsibility of ensuring that the province is fully prepared to meet the international standards required for an event of this magnitude. This resp

Cebu reinforced its growing stature as a leading meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) destination in Southeast Asia with the official launch of the Cebu MICE Guidebook during the ASEAN Tourism Forum’s Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), held at the Mactan Expo in Mactan Newtown. The guidebook was unveiled at a pivotal moment, coinciding with one of the region’s most influential tourism gatherings, attended by delegates from different ASEAN countries, senior governm

Chinese Consul General Zhang Zhen led a New Year media briefing in Cebu, outlining China’s major developments, diplomatic priorities, and relations with the Philippines, while underscoring the role of media in fostering mutual understanding between the two countries. In her briefing, Zhang highlighted China’s achievements under the 14th Five-Year Plan, describing 2025 as “a pivotal year for China as it successfully concluded the 14th Five-Year Plan, a milestone in its moderni

Bayfront Hotel Cebu proudly invites travelers, families, and staycation seekers to experience remarkable value and heartfelt Cebuano hospitality at the Cebu Travel Catalogue International 2026, happening on February 13–15, 2026 at Ayala Center Cebu, Booth 108 (near Marks & Spencer). Set against the vibrant backdrop of one of the region’s most anticipated travel events, Bayfront Hotel Cebu presents an exclusive collection of staycation and dining offers designed to elevate eve

The JCI Senate Philippines formally inducted Robert Go as its National President and launched its five flagship projects for 2026 during the organization’s 58th National Convention (NatCon 2026) and Joint Induction and Turnover Ceremonies held at Seda Ayala Center Cebu last January 30, 2026. More than 200 delegates, including JCI Senators, members, partners, and guests from across the country, attended the national gathering, which highlighted leadership transition, fellowshi

In the world of public service, where scrutiny is constant and pressure comes with every signature, longevity is not accidental. For Engr. Simon N. Arias, newly appointed Regional Director of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Central Visayas (Region VII), a decades-long career has been shaped by quiet consistency, technical discipline, and an ability to navigate some of the most demanding assignments in government. His recent appointment places him at the hel

Team SRP Lines of the University of the Philippines Cebu as the first CEB-i Hacks winner Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) successfully concluded its CEB-i Hacks innovation challenge with a high-stakes Demo Day held last January 24, 2025. The event marked the culmination of the 24-week journey where the brightest young minds in Cebu harnessed the power of Artificial Intelligence to reimagine the province’s travel and tourism landscape. CEB-i Hacks demonstrated the im

SM J Mall and Clothes for Life brought Cebu’s fashion and creative scene together with “Vested in Devotion,” a runway showcase celebrating faith, craftsmanship, and homegrown talent. Held at The Atrium on January 31, 2026, the event marked the grand culmination of the AweSM Cebu experience and Sinulog festivities, blending culture, creativity, and community in one immersive celebration. Designers interpreted devotion through modern silhouettes, meticulous craftsmanship, and s

Leading developer in VisMin Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI) in partnership with the Archdiocese of Cebu officiallyopens the newly developed Patria de Cebu located at the heart of Cebu’s heritage trail on P. Burgos Street, Cebu City. Situated in an expansive 21,000 square meter combinedgross floor area, Patria De Cebu is a fully integrated mixed-use development featuring a shopping center, offices and an international hotel in Cebu’s downtown area. Its new look retains the main P

This article by May Dedicatoria was published on www.philstar.com in collaboration with GCash. Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone and drivers of the economy, comprising 99.6% of all business establishments in the country and generating 67% of total employment —according to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. McNester Food Products owner Rebecca Tubongbanua and Parolas Guimaras owner Rhodora Garunita They are the heart of local communities—creating jobs,

By listening closely to parents and families, Cebu Paradise Montessori School, Inc. is redefining its mission—placing mental health, compassionate parenting, and family resilience at the center of its journey toward 2030. During its mid-year parent review, founder Ms. Marivic Bathan invited families to reflect on their challenges in 2025 and their hopes and fears for 2026, especially for their children. What emerged was a shared concern about uncertainty and mental well-being

The East Asia Business Council (EABC) marked the handover of its Chairmanship on January 28, 2026, from Malaysia and China to the Philippines and Japan for 2026, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to practical private sector engagement in support of ASEAN Plus Three economic cooperation, regional trade and investment, and a stable and predictable business environment. The outgoing Chairmanship, led by Malaysia with China as Co-chair, provided a review of EABC’s 2025 work pr

The first ever premium branch of Espressooh Nail Spa has opened at One Paseo on Paseo Saturnino in Banilad, Cebu City. Jason Polloso, who holds the Cebu City franchise, says he opened the Espressooh One Paseo with an eye for making it a pampering dive for clientele in the Banilad area and other northern parts of Cebu City. Espressooh One Paseo offers premium nail services including bridal packages and spa parties that can be customized according to preferences. Other service

Contempo Property Holdings, Inc. and Sunberry Homes, Inc. successfully held their 2025 Sales Performance Awarding Ceremony on January 16, 2026, at the Sinulog Grand Ballroom, City Sports Club Cebu, honoring the dedication of their brokers, agents, and sellers whose collective efforts have driven the company’s continued growth. “We were naming a truth when we chose the theme ‘Rising Higher’ to highlight how ‘Together We Reach New Heights,’” CEO Beverly Dayanan said. “Our growt

The Cebu MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) Alliance officially launches the Cebu MICE Guidebook during the ASEAN Tourism Forum’s Travel Exchange at the Mactan Expo today, January 28, 2026. The unveiling followed the forum’s opening ceremonies and was attended by Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, Cebu MICE Alliance President Cleofe Albiso, Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer Margarita Nograles, and Cebu Chamber of Commerce and In

SM J Mall and Clothes for Life invite fashion enthusiasts and art and lifestyle aficionados to max out experiences and artistry at “Vested in Devotion: The Runway Edition” on January 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM at The Atrium, Upper Ground—an evening celebrating purpose-driven design and inspired craftsmanship, marking SM J Mall’s grand culmination of the AweSM Cebu experience for the Sinulog festivities. In partnership with Clothes for Life, the runway showcase features a compelli

In photo are, from left, Clarize Morito, Grab Philippines Head of Central Operations; Wayne Jacinto, MOVE IT General Manager; COCOLIFE Healthcare Division Head Atty. Alloysius Yebra; and First Vice President and Head of Sales and Marketing Department Christopher V. Tan following the signing of the memorandum of agreement between the on-demand service platforms and COCOLIFE. Grab Philippines and motorcycle taxi platform MOVE IT have expanded their emergency insurance support w

Mercure Mactan Cebu welcomes guests with a striking island-inspired façade and a signature Mercure monogram blending global sophistication with local character. Strategically located directly across the Mactan Expo, the official venue of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, Mercure Mactan Cebu welcomes international delegates with a stay that seamlessly connects global meetings, local culture, and island living. Set within the vibrant Mactan Newtown township, the hotel offers both p

Premium Thai-Made Engine and Gear Oil Now Available in Vismotor Corporation Dealerships Across the Visayas DANG LUBE, a premium engine and gear oil proudly made in Thailand, officially launches in the Philippines through its exclusive importer and distributor, Vismotor Corporation . The brand is now available in Vismotor Corporation dealerships across the Visayas, bringing high-quality motorcycle lubrication closer to riders in the region. Engineered for reliable performance,

The NUSTAR Skydeck Cebu will officially open on February 1, 2026, unveiling the integrated resort’s newest attraction at the highest floor of NUSTAR Hotel Cebu. Designed as a semi-circular glass walkway, the NUSTAR Skydeck offers guests an extraordinary vantage point from above, bringing the skyline, coastline, and open waters into full view. More than a tourist attraction, NUSTAR Skydeck offers a themed ‘surrealism’ journey from the moment guests arrive. Playful visuals and