Chinito Wanders

Chinito Wanders See the world through my eyes and experiences. ✈️🍴🍽

I Just read about the news in Peru where tourists got stranded on the train to Machu Picchu because of a protest. I feel...
18/09/2025

I Just read about the news in Peru where tourists got stranded on the train to Machu Picchu because of a protest. I feel really lucky I was able to visit just a few months ago before this happened, and I truly hope nothing bad happened to the tourists caught in the situation.

Cebu Online News Press Corps Marks 3rd Anniversary with Coastal Clean-Up AdvocacyAs it marks its 3rd anniversary, the Ce...
18/09/2025

Cebu Online News Press Corps Marks 3rd Anniversary with Coastal Clean-Up Advocacy

As it marks its 3rd anniversary, the Cebu Online News Press Corps (CONPC) is rolling out a series of advocacy activities to show its commitment to being more than just a news organization.

Among the highlights is its partnership with the Dive and Clean-Up Club (DCC) for a Coastal and Underwater Clean-Up Dive in Mactan, Cebu. The activity will cover areas such as Marigondon, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort, and Shangri-La Mactan. The clean-up is part of the National Clean-Up Month observance this September.

The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) recently signed by CONPC Founder Robby Alugar of RMA News and DCC Founder Ludy Demecillo.

“Grateful for this partnership because I believe CONPC, being the official media partner of the Dive and Clean-Up Club, offers a valuable contribution in spreading the advocacy to dive for a cause,” said Ms. Demecillo.

“At DCC, we provide opportunities to become ocean warriors—to protect marine life and inspire others to care for the ocean in their own way,” she added.

For CONPC, this initiative underscores the important role of media in raising awareness and driving action.

“As members of the media and content creators, we have a responsibility beyond publishing content. Each of these steps brings us closer to our mission: using our platforms to promote advocacies that benefit the community and the environment,” said Alugar.

“Together, let us continue to make a difference—one advocacy at a time,"he added.

This collaboration shows how media organizations and advocacy groups can work together to champion meaningful causes, proving that even small actions can create a lasting impact.

Tbelle’s Roundtable and Launchpad Highlight Trends in the Workforce and Modern Work EnvironmentsCebu City, Philippines —...
18/09/2025

Tbelle’s Roundtable and Launchpad Highlight Trends in the Workforce and Modern Work Environments

Cebu City, Philippines — Tbelle, a leading name in Workforce Integration, recently brought together professionals, students, and industry experts for two signature events: The Roundtable and Launchpad. These gatherings focused on workplace trends shaping today’s organizations, while at the same time bridging the gap between classroom discussions and the real-world expectations graduates encounter as they enter the workforce.

At the center of both events were honest, timely conversations about where the world of work is heading, how the workplace is changing, and what people need, both in terms of skills and mindset to thrive. More than just talks, these events were about real connections, fresh insights, and inspiration for those navigating or preparing for their careers.

The Roundtable: Real Talk, Real Impact
The Roundtable serves as Tbelle’s space for professionals, freelancers, and digital workers to connect and exchange ideas. Unlike traditional conferences that focus on one-way lectures, The Roundtable creates a forum where they can share strategies, exchange best practices, and tackle pressing issues such as digital transformation, employee engagement, and remote team collaboration.

Participants left with actionable insights and, more importantly, a renewed sense of community. The exchange reinforced the idea that while the tools of work may evolve, success continues to rely on meaningful collaboration and shared learning.
“Work isn’t just about clocking in anymore; it’s about showing up with value,” said Belle Wiffen, CEO of Tbelle. “Companies need to create environments where people feel their purpose aligns with their performance. The future will belong to teams who connect deeply, communicate well, and collaborate with courage.”

Launchpad: Preparing Students for Tomorrow’s Workforce
Launchpad is Tbelle’s initiative created for students and young professionals. It gives them a front-row seat to learn from people who’ve been in the field and see what Workforce Integration looks like in real life. It’s more than just another career talk—Launchpad makes learning interactive and engaging, giving students a chance to ask bold questions and really dig into what it takes to succeed.

Panel talks and breakout sessions challenged attendees to think about what the future of work will really require things like adaptability, creativity, confidence, and strong personal values, not just technical skills. The big takeaway? It’s not just about your resume anymore. It’s about how well you connect with others and contribute to a team.
“Today’s students need more than just know-how,” said Angel Lou Pates, COO of Tbelle. “They need to be visionary, resilient, and confident. The latest workforce trends show that being flexible and creative matters just as much as being an expert. Launchpad helps students understand how to truly stand out in a global, fast-paced job market.”

Make It Matter: A Theme with Heart
Both The Roundtable and Launchpad are part of Tbelle’s 2025–2026 theme: “Make It Matter.” It’s a powerful reminder that even the smallest effort can lead to big results especially when it’s fueled by clarity, purpose, and boldness.
Together, these platforms show how committed Tbelle is to building a workforce that’s not just globally competitive but also grounded in strong human values.

About Tbelle
Tbelle is reimagining outsourcing through Workforce Integration. A model that focuses on strengthening the bonds between leaders, teams, and organizations. By aligning purpose, people and strategy, Tbelle helps companies build teams that are connected, mission-driven, and ready to thrive no matter where they are in the world.

Freelancers and digital professionals joined Tbelle’s Roundtable, together with CEO Belle Wiffen and COO & Keynote Speaker Angel Lou Pates, for meaningful conversations on the future of work and Workforce Integration.

Launchpad brought together students from SWU-Phinma alongside Tbelle CEO Belle Wiffen, COO Angel Lou Pates, the Tbelle Core Team, and Dean of the Business School, Steve Spencer — creating a space where ideas, purpose, and future-ready careers connect.

Aventus Medical Care Expands with Wellness Hub and UrbanRehab Branch in Calamba Residents of Calamba, Laguna, and nearby...
17/09/2025

Aventus Medical Care Expands with Wellness Hub and UrbanRehab Branch in Calamba

Residents of Calamba, Laguna, and nearby towns will now have closer access to comprehensive healthcare and rehabilitation services with the opening of the Aventus Medical Care Wellness Hub and UrbanRehab Calamba branch.

The facility aims to extend the same high-quality wellness and rehabilitation services offered in Makati to communities outside Metro Manila, said Dr. Edward Luna, Associate Director for Specialized Clinics at Aventus Medical Care.

Dr. Luna noted that Calamba, Laguna has a population exceeding 700,000 and a median age of just 24. “Calamba, Laguna is home to a youthful and expanding community with a pressing need for accessible healthcare. Beyond Calamba, we also seek to serve neighboring towns and communities where comprehensive medical services remain out of reach.”

This strategic move aims to duplicate premium wellness and rehabilitation experiences in Makati to a broader community. “By establishing a presence in Laguna, we hope to make holistic health and rehab care more accessible to residents outside the city, continuing our mission of promoting well-being in every community we serve,” Dr. Luna said.

He explained that a considerable number of our patients come from Laguna. “Traffic congestion and long travel times to major city centers can be overwhelming, especially for senior citizens,” Dr. Luna said. “We designed this facility to bring essential services closer to home.”

A Modern Approach to Healthcare

Unlike traditional medical facilities, the Wellness Hub offers an integrated model of care. Patients can consult a full lineup of specialists—including Internal Medicine, OB-GYN, and Cardiology—while benefiting from advanced diagnostics such as 2D Echo, Stress Test, and Ultrasound.

Rehabilitation services under UrbanRehab complement these offerings. Patients can access physical therapy, orthopedic rehabilitation, sports injury management, chronic pain therapy, and neurological rehabilitation, all under one roof.

“This kind of coordination allows us to provide holistic medical management,” Dr. Luna explained. “Patients can see different specialists without having to move between facilities, ensuring continuity of care and better health outcomes.”

Expansion Plans

The opening in Calamba marks another milestone in Aventus Medical Care’s growth strategy. Beyond Laguna, the company is looking to expand to other strategic locations further strengthening its presence as a leader in community-based healthcare.

“Our goal is to keep bridging healthcare gaps across the country,” Dr. Luna emphasized. “Wherever people need us, that’s where we aim to be.”

Dive and Clean up Club Supports National Clean up MonthIn support to the National Clean up Month, Dive and Clean up Club...
17/09/2025

Dive and Clean up Club Supports National Clean up Month

In support to the National Clean up Month, Dive and Clean up Club (DCC) organized a coastal and underwater clean up initiative on September 13, 2025 in Marigondon, Lapu-Lapu City. DCC and its partners gathered at E&Z Diving Center as the venue for the coastal clean up, training and entry point for the underwater clean up.

It was a full-packed event with four (4) different activities that made it purposeful, meaningful, impactful and enjoyable.

First activity was a coastal clean up in partnership with the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris (RCCGM) which was headed by Past President Myra Urbiztondo. The Rotary Club’s Areas of Focus of promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), saving mothers and children, supporting education, growing local economies also includes protecting the environment. Thus, RCCGM is very much aligned to DCC’s advocacy to help protect Mother Earth, particularly the marine life.

The second activity was a collaboration with Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau - Coastal Resources and Ecotourism Research, Development, and Extension Center (ERDB-CRERDEC) for a talk and training conducted by Roxie Diaz on Monitoring and Surveillance of Crown-of Thorns Seastars (MaSCoTS) and methods in controlling their population outbreaks. These crown-of-thorns starfish (CoTS) can cause significant harm to coral reefs by consuming vast amounts of living coral polyps, leaving behind barren underwater landscapes. The outbreak can lead to extensive reef degradation and loss of coral cover, which can take many years to recover. The divers were taught how to report CoTS sightings online thru MaSCoTS and how to conduct culling activities thru injections using household vinegar, which has been proven effective for the mortality of the CoTS without harming other non-target species and does not pose a threat to the surroundings.

In the third activity, an unforgettable Discovery Scuba Dive (DSD) was experienced for free by some of the event partners. E&Z Diving Center through the owner Glenn Delos Santos provided the suits and gears while DCC dive instructors Ikuo Atuel and Mary Glo Villacastin conducted the training and guided the new divers. The wonderful experience helped them appreciate better why coastal and underwater clean up dives are significant, apart from having an enjoyable time in the ocean through scuba diving.

In the fourth and main activity, the DCC divers together with E&Z divers and ERDB-CRERDEC divers, went for underwater clean up dive. Those in DSD was also enjoined to help in picking up trash in the course of their Discovery Scuba Dive. Around 40 divers participated in the underwater clean up drive. Some found crown-of-thorns starfish and successfully injected them with vinegar for population control. Some divers were fascinated with their first time diving experience in Marigondon area.

All the scuba divers returned safely from the dive and certificates of appreciation were prepared by Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, and signed by General Manager, Patrick Manthe. Furthermore, two (2) Day Use vouchers with P1,500 consumable each voucher at the 5-star resort Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan are raffled off to the lucky divers who will enjoy one of the best beaches in the island of Mactan with stunning ocean view and infinity pool, plus world-class flavors and hospitality.

Those activities were achieved and made memorable with the valuable support of other partners:

*Cebu Online News Press Corps (CONPC) has been our media partner in DCC in promoting its events. Special mention to the founder Robby Alugar.
*The Mall at NUSTAR gave away gift items for all the DCC divers.
*Manabox provided free taste of their delicious fresh salad, spring rolls and fresh juices.
*Novellino, the number 1 wine in the Philippines, added enjoyment of the camaraderie with their wines.
*Sea Drifters and United Neon Advertising Inc prepared the event e-poster and DCC banner, respectively.
*Thinking Cap Production Studios set the event to a new level with a professional video production.
*The City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) helped in the sorting and disposing the trash collected.

The Dive and Clean up Club (DCC) with its advocacy to dive for a cause - help protect the marine life, is a newly-formed dive community with diverse members from all walks of life - professional divers, businessmen, private and government employees, self-employed and even retirees. For the past four (4) months, they have done four (4) clean up dives already. For this month, there are two (2) more collaborations to come for the International Clean Up Day. With the slogan “One clean-up dive at a time”, DCC Founder Ludy Vilma Demecillo, hopes to make this advocacy sustainable with the help of private and government partners and individuals as she believes that together we can make the ocean cleaner and heal

MOVE IT commits to UN road-safety agenda, highlights People-Powered, Tech-Secured approach Manila, Philippines, Septembe...
17/09/2025

MOVE IT commits to UN road-safety agenda, highlights People-Powered, Tech-Secured approach

Manila, Philippines, September 17, 2025 – MOVE IT signed a United Nations Statement of Commitment on Road Safety, where General Manager Wayne Jacinto spotlighted the company’s two-pronged safety approach, “Driver-Led, Tech-Reinforced,” as the cornerstone of its program during a meeting with UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety Jean Todt and UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines Arnaud Peral.

“The protection we promise riders and passengers is engineered into both the people on the road and the systems that back them,” Jacinto said. He detailed an end-to-end regimen — skills assessments, background checks, vehicle evaluations, and continuous upskilling — anchored on MOVE IT’s driver-quality program “Pasado Bago Pasada”. This is paired with real-time safeguards, including Overspeeding Alerts, Fatigue Nudges, and Trip Monitoring, promoting a safety-first culture among its rider-partners. “Our aim is clear: high professional standards for riders powered by innovative technology,” he added.

By joining the UN Statement of Commitment to Improving Road Safety, MOVE IT and other road safety stakeholders pledged to pursue evidence-based safety standards, issuance of quality gear, and promote a safety-first mindset and behavior on the road. The commitment also calls for active support of regulatory measures designed to enhance road safety and protect workers in the transport and delivery sectors.

Jacinto was joined at the event by EJ Dela Vega, Chief Commercial Officer of Grab Philippines, who framed the move within Grab’s longer safety arc. “Road safety was the genesis of our platform more than a decade ago, and that same discipline guides Grab Deliveries today,” Dela Vega said. “We back our partners with continuous road-safety training, regular in-app prompts and skills assessments, and routing technologies that help ensure every trip — and every delivery — ends safely.” He added that Grab will continue to work with government, peers, and global advocates as a “co-champion” of road safety.

(In photo are MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto and Grab Philippines Chief Commercial Officer EJ Dela Vega as they join UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety Jean Todt and UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines Arnaud Peral in the signing of the Statement of Commitment on Road Safety. Also present are Department of Health Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa and Department of Transportation Undersecretary Ramon Reyes.)

HINDI LAHAT NG BUMIBISITA SA ABROAD NG KAMAG ANAK AY MAGPAPA GASTA.I am perfectly comfortable traveling on my own, and I...
16/09/2025

HINDI LAHAT NG BUMIBISITA SA ABROAD NG KAMAG ANAK AY MAGPAPA GASTA.

I am perfectly comfortable traveling on my own, and I truly enjoy every aspect of the experience. There is a profound sense of freedom in being able to explore a new country independently—choosing where to go, what to do, and where to dine without having to consider anyone else.

When I reach out during my travels, it is simply because I wish to reconnect with you—whether family, friends, or relatives. My intention is to catch up, strengthen bonds, and perhaps create new memorable experiences together. It is never with the expectation of receiving free accommodation, food, or tours. I am fully capable of covering my own expenses and have no desire to impose on others.

That said, if you extend your generosity during a reunion, I will accept it with gratitude, as it is both a kind gesture and a common courtesy when welcoming a guest. I extend the same thoughtfulness whenever I have the opportunity to host you. However, please be assured that I do not expect anyone to take on the responsibility of covering my entire stay or expenses.

Therefore, if I reach out to see you while traveling, it is purely because I value our relationship and wish to spend meaningful time together.

Let us continue to celebrate the joy of traveling and the priceless opportunity it gives us to reconnect with our loved ones—family, friends, and relatives.

PS: Not a contractor, nor from a family of contractors. 😅

Cebu Goes Culinary 2025: Showcasing the best of local flavors and creativityMore than 740 culinary participants are gear...
15/09/2025

Cebu Goes Culinary 2025: Showcasing the best of local flavors and creativity

More than 740 culinary participants are gearing up for Cebu Goes Culinary 2025, the region’s largest culinary competition, set on September 26–27 at the Sky Hall of SM Seaside City Cebu.

Organized by the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu Inc. (HRRAC), this year’s event carries the theme “Balik Isla – Foraging in the Philippine Countryside.” The competition will feature 32 professional establishments and 18 hospitality schools from Cebu, Bacolod, Leyte, Ormoc, Camotes, Bohol, and Negros. There will be two categories— Professional and Student.

“Both groups will have the opportunity to showcase their skills,” said Carmela Malagar, co-chair of Cebu Goes Culinary 2025 and HRRAC corporate secretary. “To ensure fairness, contestants will not be identified by their institutions during the competition.”

Competitions

Participants will test their skills in 17 categories divided into five main clusters:

Battle Royale: Klasika Moderna Kulinarya – Sutukil

Compleat Chefs: Best Regional Ingredient, Best Traditional Recipe, Regional Pica-Pica, and Pantry Chef – Regional Vegetable or Fruit Salad

Culinary Flair: Flairtending, Cocktail Making, Mocktail Making, Coffee Concoction, Cacao Concoction, and Table Setting with Floral Centerpiece

Sweet Revenge: Kakanin – P**o Maya, Wedding Cake, Creative Cake Decoration, and Pralines

Special Competition by Potatoes USA – Pica-Pica Appetizer

The student category will have contestants from 18 schools while the professional category will showcase the talent of chefs and teams from 32 hotels, resorts, restaurants, and institutions.

Honoring local roots

“One of the core pillars of Cebu Goes Culinary 2025 is a deep respect for local produce,” Malagar explained. “We want contestants to not only cook with indigenous and seasonal ingredients, but to understand their roots — literally and culturally.”

To uphold this, participants are encouraged to source from local farmers, markets, and suppliers, ensuring every dish reflects the richness of Cebu’s culinary heritage. Judges scrutinize everything — from the tools used to the origin of each ingredient — and often engage contestants in conversations about their sourcing choices and techniques.

“Ultimately, the spotlight shines not just on the taste of the final dish, but on the integrity of every choice made along the way — reinforcing the value of Filipino flavors and sustainable culinary practices. Every sense is put to the test, culminating in the ultimate measure of excellence: taste,” Malagar emphasized.

To help contestants embrace the theme Balik Isla, HRRAC conducted a special briefing on September 9 with culinary advocate Chef Myrna Segismundo and Event Chairperson Julita Urbina of the Laguna Group, in partnership with Potatoes USA. The session highlighted the importance of rediscovering indigenous ingredients and telling the story of the countryside through food.

More than a competition

“Cebu Goes Culinary is a celebration of passion, perseverance, and talent,” said Alfred Reyes, HRRAC executive vice president and sponsorships chair. “For students, it’s a stepping stone to discover their potential. For professionals, it’s a chance to sharpen their skills and share their artistry.”

He emphasized that the competition helps shape future chefs and hoteliers by instilling discipline, resilience, and teamwork. Winners stand to gain more than just recognition — with scholarships, mentorships, and career-building opportunities on the line, they may also represent Cebu on national and global stages.

Reyes emphasized that the competition’s commitment to sustainability is equally vital. “By choosing to highlight indigenous ingredients, seasonal harvests, and traditional techniques, contestants bring sustainability to the forefront of modern dining,” he explained.

With its strong participation and countryside theme, Cebu Goes Culinary 2025 is expected to once again put the spotlight on Cebu as a hub of talent, creativity, and world-class Filipino flavors. Cebu Goes Culinary, a biennial event, last took center stage in 2023 and is set to return with fresh talent and flavors in its upcoming edition.

Eat & Drink Big, Save More: Precious Brew’s Breakfast Promo Now AvailableBreakfast is the most important meal of the day...
12/09/2025

Eat & Drink Big, Save More: Precious Brew’s Breakfast Promo Now Available

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and Precious Brew Café is giving mornings a delicious upgrade with its new Unlimited Rice and Coffee Breakfast Promo, available daily from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for the whole month of September up to October.

The promo will unite coffee and unli-rice lovers as it highlights two Filipino breakfast staples: rice and coffee. Designed to be both comforting and energizing, the offering reflects the café’s goal of providing guests with a value-packed start to their day.

This initiative also complements the café’s broader vision of being a go-to destination for every meal. While already popular for lunch and dinner, Precious Brew Café aims to extend the same warmth and vibrancy to mornings. The breakfast promo helps strengthen the brand's identity as a full-day café experience where guests can drop by any time and feel at home.

The campaign is also about building new habits. By encouraging diners to come earlier in the day, the café hopes to become part of its patrons’ daily routines. Regulars can continue to enjoy their favorite dishes while taking advantage of the promo, while first-time visitors will find the unlimited rice and coffee a welcoming way to get to know the café.

PBC owner Ferro Lao explained that the promo is more than just an affordable breakfast deal. “This isn’t only about unlimited rice and coffee. It’s about creating a welcoming space where people can linger, connect, and enjoy a lifestyle experience—whether that’s at 8 a.m. for breakfast, noon for lunch, or in the evening for dinner.”

The Unlimited Rice and Coffee Breakfast Promo is now available at Precious Brew Café, making mornings heartier, warmer, and more inviting for everyone.

Beyond its daily dining experience, Precious Brew Café also caters to any occasion. The café offers chic, versatile space that can be styled to fit your precious moments.

To complement these events, the café offers food trays and packages that feature party favorites such as Carbonara, Crispy Pata, and Stuffed-Cheese Chicken, along with a selection of desserts and bilao meals for sharing. For coffee lovers, Precious Brew Café also provides a coffee cart package starting at ₱10,000 for 50 cups, perfect for weddings, corporate functions, and private parties looking to add a unique and memorable touch.

Make your days and special events more precious with Precious Brew Café.
Check them out here for exact location and reservations:

888 A.S. Fortuna St. Banilad, Mandaue City, Cebu
(032) 465-1796

1051 Hernan Cortes St. Subangdaku, Mandaue City, Cebu
(032) 507-9497
A.S. Fortuna
📍Google Map: ⁦https://maps.app.goo.gl/fxqz4P1Ftzw5ppsz9?g_st=com.google.maps.previ

Cebu Joins Global Movement in World Walks Against DementiaOver 500 participants gather at SM Seaside City Cebu to raise ...
10/09/2025

Cebu Joins Global Movement in World Walks Against Dementia

Over 500 participants gather at SM Seaside City Cebu to raise awareness, hope, and compassion

More than 500 Cebuanos came together on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at SM Seaside City Cebu to join the World Walks Against Dementia 2025, a global campaign uniting communities across 46 countries in raising awareness and compassion for those living with dementia.

The Cebu event was organized by the Purple Angel Global Dementia Awareness Movement, Cebu Children’s Paradise Montessori School, Inc. (CCPMSI), and the Institute for Dementia Care Asia (IDCA), with the support of SM Cares and SM Seaside City Cebu, which hosted the walk inside its mall premises. The Cebu Online News Press Corps is the official media partner of the event.

“A Promise to Care”

Leading the Cebu walk was Marivic Bathan, CCPMSI President and Purple Angel Ambassador for Cebu. She welcomed participants by affirming that the walk was more than just a symbolic gathering.

“By wearing purple, we say we care, we remember, and we walk together,” Bathan said. “This is a promise to raise awareness, a promise to fight myths, a promise to care with dignity and respect, and above all, a promise to never let dementia steal the value and worth of a person’s life.”

Bathan also shared her personal journey, noting that her family has seniors in their 80s and 90s, including an aunt living with dementia. She underscored the potential of the Montessori approach to dementia care, which she first studied in Australia, and which CCPMSI now promotes alongside its education programs for children.

Medical Insights on Dementia

The walk also featured a talk by Dr. Jarungchai Anton “Toom” Vatanagul, Dean and Associate Professor IV at Cebu Normal University and Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center College of Medicine. A neurologist and proud Montessori parent, Dr. Vatanagul emphasized the importance of understanding dementia clearly.

He explained the difference between mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia:

MCI is an early stage of memory or cognitive loss, but individuals can still perform daily activities.

Dementia is diagnosed when memory or cognitive decline interferes with everyday living, such as dressing, bathing, or using a phone.

“Mere forgetfulness does not always equate to dementia,” he clarified. “In dementia, it is often the recent memory that is affected. People may forget today’s events but still recall songs by Karen Carpenter or Frank Sinatra.”

Using examples such as Bruce Willis (frontotemporal dementia), Robin Williams (Lewy Body Disease), and Ronald Reagan (Alzheimer’s Disease), Dr. Vatanagul emphasized that dementia can affect anyone — regardless of age, gender, or social status.

He also highlighted the urgency of the issue: by 2030, an estimated 1.4 million Filipinos will be living with dementia, making it a pressing national health concern.

The Seniors’ Perspective

Adding to the discussion, Jocelyn Tabotabo, Regional Director of the National Commission for Senior Citizens (NCSC) Region VII, provided a broader view of the challenges facing the country’s elderly population.

She reported that as of 2024, the Philippines has over 12 million senior citizens, projected to reach 14% of the population by 2030. Yet access to specialized care remains limited — only 27.6% have access to geriatric services, and Cebu City has just three geriatricians.

Other sobering statistics include:

57% of seniors live with physical disabilities

30% experience depression

10% suffer from neglect or abuse

“These are rising cases,” Tabotabo warned, stressing the importance of stronger support systems.

She outlined NCSC’s key programs, which include wellness, health, emergency, and livelihood services, with dementia prevention and control now among its priorities. The Commission is also working with local governments to establish Senior Citizens Community Care Centers, which will provide geriatric assessments, immunization programs for flu and pneumonia, and other essential services. Region VII already has four such centers in operation.

Walking Together

The Cebu walk drew participants from all walks of life — leaders, doctors, caregivers, youth, families, and seniors. International guests included Mr. Nobuyoshi Wake and Hiroshi Kaihata from Japan, operators of Montessori care homes in Okayama, who joined to witness Cebu’s commitment. Noemi Carmack, Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) USA-trained, experienced, and American Montessori Society (AMS) instructor, with her husband also joined the walk.

IDCA President & Head of St. Luke's Medical Center's Memory Center, Dr. Jacqueline Dominguez, Purple Angel Southeast Asia Operations Head, Jiil Arsenal, and INDAK Program Co-Founder, Jaypee Decena, flew in from Manila after the morning walk at UP Diliman. IDCA-Dumaguete Head, Dr. Justine Iway, joined the panel discussion.

As the sea of purple moved through the SM Seaside premises, the message of unity was clear. Bathan’s call resonated with the crowd:

“Are you ready to walk for hope? Are you ready to walk for compassion? Are you ready to walk for dignity? Then let us walk with courage. Let us walk with purpose, and let us walk together—because every step we take today is a step closer to a world where no one faces dementia alone.”

Cebu’s participation in this worldwide campaign affirmed a shared belief: dementia may touch lives, but it will never diminish them. Through awareness, compassion, and innovation, communities can ensure that every person living with dementia is treated with dignity, respect, and love.

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Cebu City

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