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Cebu Island News, Cebu City (2026)

07/03/2026

BIR Kicks Off 2026 Visayas Tax Campaign, Draws Over 1,600 to Cebu Launch

CEBU CITY - The Bureau of Internal Revenue launched the Visayas leg of its 2026 Regional Tax Campaign on March 6, drawing more than 1,600 government officials, business leaders and taxpayers from across the region.

Led by BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza, the event marked the first time the agency rolled out its tax campaign through a cluster-based approach, bringing together BIR regional offices in the Visayas for a coordinated effort to strengthen tax administration and encourage voluntary compliance.

The campaign carries the theme "Mahusay na Serbisyo, Katumbas ng Buwis Mo," highlighting the agency's message that efficient public service should match the taxes paid by Filipinos.

In his keynote address, Mendoza said tax collection must go hand in hand with transparency, accountability and quality service.

He said the BIR continues to implement reforms under its DARES framework - Digital and Data Transformation, Audit Reform and Accountability, Revenue Collection and Base Protection, Employee Empowerment and Welfare Promotion, and Service Excellence and Stakeholder Engagement.

According to Mendoza, the strategy aims to modernize the bureau's digital systems, streamline procedures and improve services for taxpayers.

The commissioner also pointed to the Visayas as a major contributor to the national economy. Mendoza, who previously served as customs district collector at the Port of Cebu, said the region remains a key center for tourism, education and trade.

He noted that in 2024, the combined economy of Western Visayas, the Negros Island Region, Central Visayas and Eastern Visayas reached about P3.7 trillion.

"These resources come from the people," Mendoza said, adding that the government has the responsibility to collect taxes fairly and return them to the public through programs and services.

Among the officials who attended the event was Pamela Baricuatro, governor of Cebu Province. She voiced support for the campaign and stressed the need for responsible use of public funds.

Baricuatro said taxes paid by citizens should translate into improved health services, stronger communities and better public programs.

Earlier in the program, Douglas A. Rufino, regional director of BIR Revenue Region 13 - Central Visayas, welcomed participants and emphasized cooperation between the government and taxpayers to support economic growth.

The program also featured a presentation of the bureau's accomplishments in 2025 and the unveiling of the 2026 tax campaign logo and official campaign jingle.

Updates on BIR initiatives were presented by Christine Juliet R. Chua of Revenue Region 12 - Negros Island Region and Vener S. Baquiran, BIR deputy commissioner for operations. They discussed programs such as Buwis Challenge 2 and other priority reforms for 2026.

The event also recognized top individual and corporate taxpayers from BIR Revenue Regions 11 (Western Visayas), 12 (Negros Island Region), 13 (Central Visayas) and 14 (Eastern Visayas).

The Visayas kickoff is part of the nationwide rollout of the BIR's 2026 tax campaign, with similar events scheduled in North Luzon later this month. | via Shadne Genterone

07/03/2026

𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐚 𝟒-𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬? 𝐉𝐨𝐛 𝐎𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐬

As more countries experiment with a four-day work week, discussions are beginning to surface in the Philippines about whether such a system could improve productivity and work-life balance. But for thousands of Filipino workers—especially those employed under Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) arrangements in government—one key question remains:

Would fewer workdays mean less pay?

A Global Shift Toward Shorter Work Weeks

Around the world, governments and companies are testing shorter work weeks to address worker burnout, improve productivity, and strengthen family life. In countries such as Iceland, Belgium, Spain, and the United Kingdom, trials of a four-day work week have shown promising results, including higher productivity and improved employee well-being.

The typical model follows what experts call the 100-80-100 principle—workers receive 100% of their salary for 80% of the hours while maintaining 100% productivity.

For countries with strong labor protections and salary-based employment systems, the shift is relatively manageable. However, the Philippine labor landscape presents unique challenges.

The “No Work, No Pay” Reality

In the Philippines, many government workers are hired under Job Order (JO) or Contract of Service (COS) arrangements. Unlike regular employees, these workers:

Are paid based on days worked

Do not receive standard government benefits

Often operate under a “no work, no pay” system

Because of this structure, implementing a four-day work week without adjustments could potentially reduce the income of these workers, raising concerns about fairness and financial stability.

A reduction in working days could translate into less take-home pay, unless policies are specifically adjusted to protect these employees.

Possible Remedies and Policy Options

Labor experts and governance advocates say the four-day work week could still benefit the Philippines—but only with careful policy reforms.

Several possible solutions have been suggested:

1. Shift From Daily to Output-Based Pay

Instead of measuring work by days present, government agencies could adopt output-based performance systems, where compensation is tied to completed tasks and deliverables.

2. Convert JO and COS Positions to Regular Posts

Another long-term solution is the regularization of essential government positions, allowing workers to receive stable salaries and benefits rather than relying on daily compensation.

3. Maintain Pay While Compressing Hours

A compressed workweek—such as four longer workdays instead of five shorter ones—could allow workers to maintain the same number of total hours while enjoying longer rest periods.

4. Digitalization of Government Services

Modernizing government systems could significantly improve efficiency, allowing agencies to maintain productivity even with fewer working days.

Potential Benefits for Filipino Workers

If implemented properly, a four-day work week could bring several benefits:

Improved mental health and reduced burnout

Better work-life balance

Increased productivity

Reduced traffic congestion and commuting costs

For government employees, it could also lead to higher efficiency in public service delivery, especially if paired with digital reforms.

The Bigger Question: Reforming Work Culture

Experts say the discussion about a four-day work week should not only focus on reducing days but also on reforming how work is measured.

The Philippine workplace has traditionally emphasized hours spent at the office rather than actual output. Moving toward a productivity-based system could unlock both better government performance and improved worker welfare.

For job order and contract workers, however, the key lies in ensuring that labor protections evolve alongside any new work arrangements.

Without those safeguards, the dream of a shorter work week could unintentionally widen economic gaps.

But with the right reforms, analysts say the Philippines could transform the idea into an opportunity to modernize both governance and the workforce.

📩 𝙒𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙙? 𝙎𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙪𝙨 𝙖 𝙢𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙤𝙧 𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙞𝙡 𝙪𝙨 𝙖𝙩 𝙘𝙚𝙗𝙪𝙞𝙨𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙣𝙚𝙬𝙨@𝙜𝙢𝙖𝙞𝙡.𝙘𝙤𝙢 .

05/03/2026

𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮 𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝟑𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐏𝐢𝐬𝐨 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐞

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, continues to make travel dreams come true on its 30th anniversary as it brings back its signature Piso sale, giving travelers more opportunities to book low fares as the airline celebrates three decades in the skies.

From March 5 – 11, travelers may book flights to domestic and international destinations on sale for as low as PHP 1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges.

The travel period runs from November 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027, allowing guests to book CEB’s lowest fares in advance and visit their dream destinations during the holiday season.

For those planning local trips, travelers can fly to Bacolod, Cebu, Iloilo, and more. Whether it’s a quick city break, a food adventure, or an island getaway, these destinations provide convenient access to some of the country’s popular leisure spots.

Internationally, travelers can head to Hong Kong, Japan, and Thailand accessible via CEB’s major hubs across the Philippines.

From visiting temples and savoring local delicacies to shopping and exploring different cities, these destinations—and many more across CEB’s international network—offer plenty to look forward to.

For the whole month of March, travelers may also book flights to select destinations on sale for as low as PHP 30 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period for this promo runs from April 1 to November 30, 2026.

CEB flew its maiden voyage from Manila to Cebu on March 8, 1996. Since then, the airline has flown over 250 million passengers across its widest domestic and international network as it continues to offer affordable and accessible flights.

CEB currently operates in 35 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
For an enhanced travel experience, passengers may avail of Go Easy when booking and get discounts on check-in baggage and seat selection. Pre-ordered meals are also available online, with options including Beef Adobo, Grilled Chicken Wrap, and Pinoy Spaghetti.
CEB offers various payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets, to book flights and buy add-ons.

Visit www.cebupacificair.com or book directly via the Cebu Pacific app to secure your seats now.

Cebu Pacific Air

01/03/2026

𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲

The Cebu Provincial Government, through the Cebu Provincial Youth Development Office (CPYDO), successfully concluded Cebu Provincial Arts Month 2026 with a vibrant celebration of creativity, culture, and innovation at the Cebu Provincial Capitol Grounds on February 28.

The month-long observance culminated in a dynamic showcase that highlighted the artistic excellence and environmental consciousness of Cebuano youth. One of the major highlights of the evening was the first-ever “Bisti sa Paghiusa: Sustainable and Wearable Art Competition,” which gathered 18 participating local government units from across the province.

The competition placed young artists, designers, and storytellers at center stage, emphasizing sustainability while celebrating Cebu’s rich cultural heritage. Through innovative wearable art pieces crafted from eco-friendly and recycled materials, participants demonstrated that creativity can be both expressive and socially responsible.

In the Digital Art contest, Carcar City earned the People’s Choice Award, while the City of Naga emerged as champion. San Francisco secured first place, followed by Santa Fe in second place, Tuburan in third, and Bogo City in fourth.

The Digital Storytelling category also showcased compelling narratives and visual creativity. Carcar City once again received the People’s Choice Award. Pinamungajan claimed first place, with Oslob placing second, Barili third, and the City of Danao fourth.

Special awards were presented during the Bisti sa Paghiusa competition. Joshua Banquil of the Municipality of Argao was recognized as Best Make-Up Artist, while Eden Grace Mendez of Danao City received the Best Model award. In the Best Design and Designer category, Christian Angelo Lambojon of the Municipality of Oslob was named Grand Champion and Best Designer. Eljohn Traya of Tabuelan was declared first runner-up, and John Paul Alberca of Argao was awarded second runner-up.

The culminating event not only recognized the exceptional talents of participating local government units but also reaffirmed the Province’s strong commitment to empowering Cebuano youth and nurturing the local creative industry.

More than a competition, the evening served as a meaningful gathering that celebrated creativity as a living expression of Cebu’s heritage. It reinforced a shared vision of building a vibrant, youth-driven, and thriving creative community in the province.

Through initiatives such as Arts Month and Bisti sa Paghiusa, the Cebu Provincial Government continues to invest in platforms that inspire young Cebuanos to innovate, create, and take pride in their cultural identity. via Arlene Solis Chua

01/03/2026

𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮 𝐅𝐂 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐚, 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐅𝐋 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐠𝐧

Cebu Football Club kept its unbeaten run intact after dismantling Maharlika Taguig FC, 4-0, in second-round action of the Philippine Football League on Saturday, February 28, at the Dynamic Herb-Borromeo Sports Complex.

The Gentle Giants came out firing on all cylinders, striking early to seize control. Kaito Asano drew first blood in the 6th minute, pouncing on an opportunity to put the hosts ahead and set the tone for the night. Rhino Goutier doubled the cushion in the 17th minute with a clinical finish, leaving Maharlika on the back foot before they could settle into rhythm.

Maharlika’s uphill climb grew steeper after an early concussion forced them into a substitution, disrupting their game plan. The match turned scrappy as the tempo intensified, with both sides trading hard challenges and the referee flashing yellow cards to keep emotions in check.

After the restart, Maharlika attempted to regroup and tighten up defensively, looking to claw their way back into the contest. But Cebu FC dictated the pace, controlled possession, and patiently waited for openings. The dam finally broke in stoppage time as Clyde Vitualla buried a goal in the 90+3rd minute. Abou Sy then delivered the knockout blow in the 90+8th, putting the exclamation point on a dominant display.

Standing tall between the posts was veteran goalkeeper Rami Jeridi, who turned in a commanding performance to preserve the clean sheet. The night carried added significance as Jeridi marked his 600th professional appearance in style, earning Man of the Match honors.

“I thank Cebu Football Club for a good game. We had a strong performance against Maharlika. We started with focus and determination to win,” Jeridi said.

Head coach Glenn Ramos lauded his squad for grinding out their fourth straight victory.

“Despite players coming and going, this group has gelled quickly and developed strong chemistry. That teamwork is what matters,” Ramos said. “The players worked hard for this win, and we will double our efforts as we prepare for Kaya FC-Iloilo on March 14.”

Kaya FC-Iloilo, last season’s defending champions, loom as Cebu’s next major test.

For now, the Gentle Giants continue to ride a wave of momentum, blending attacking firepower with defensive steel. With confidence soaring and consistency on their side, Cebu FC looks every bit a contender as the PFL campaign gathers pace. | via Iste Sesante Leopoldo

25/02/2026

𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮; 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐏𝟖 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐬

Local boutique airline Sunlight Air is bringing back its much-anticipated Grand Travel Fest to Cebu from February 27 to March 1, 2026, offering travelers the chance to score domestic fares for as low as P8 one-way base fare.

The three-day travel fair will be held at The Activity Center of Ayala Center Cebu, welcoming mallgoers and travel enthusiasts eager to plan their next island getaway.

P8 Base Fares to Top Island Destinations
As part of the event’s exclusive offers, travelers can book one-way base fares from Cebu to Coron, Siargao, and Siquijor for as low as P8.

Cardholders of BPI and Robinsons Bank can enjoy additional perks, including:

- 20% off on Value and Plus fares
- 10 kg free baggage on select Lite fares
- 0% installment via FlexiPayZero

Pay up to three months later through FlexiPayLater

Sunlight Air will also offer its SmartPass vouchers at 10% off exclusively during the Grand Travel Fest Cebu. These vouchers may be redeemed at least five to 45 days before departure, making them ideal for travelers planning ahead.

Strong Industry Partnerships

The Grand Travel Fest Cebu 2026 is co-presented by Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation, Trip.com, and The Henry Hotels and Resorts.

Event visitors can also explore booths from Sunlight Air’s partner exhibitors, including Dito BizBayan, Hertz Philippines, Barista and Coffee Academy of Asia / Curve Coffee Collaborators, Sunlight Hotels and Resorts, Coco Grove Beach Dive & Spa Resort, One Root Hospitality, Starr Insurance, Suppuru Philippines, BlankCo Studio, and BPI.

Pre-registered guests via www.sunlightair.ph/gtf/
will receive free brewed coffee from Curve Coffee Collaborators upon entry. Admission to the event is free.

Expanding Seamless Island Travel

Sunlight Air operates as a domestic boutique airline in the Philippines, offering flights from its primary hubs in Clark and Cebu to key island destinations such as Siquijor, Coron (Busuanga), Siargao, and Boracay.

The airline operates a fleet of ATR 72-500 and ATR 72-600 aircraft, known for efficiency, reliability, and passenger comfort. With a focus on safety and personalized service, Sunlight Air continues to position itself as a preferred carrier for seamless and enjoyable island travel experiences.

For updates on the Grand Travel Fest and upcoming promotions, travelers may visit Sunlight Air’s official website and social media platforms.

21/02/2026

UC, DBP Seal P8-M Scholarship Deal for 40 Cebuano Students

CEBU CITY - Forty Cebuano students from low-income families will receive full college support after the University of Cebu formalized a scholarship partnership with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP).

The agreement was signed Feb. 19, 2026, at the UC Main Campus along Sanciangko Street. Leading the signing for UC were Chairman Augusto W. Go, Executive Vice Chancellor Manu Elijah Sarausad, and Scholarship Office Head Leonilo Oliva. Representing DBP were Senior Vice President Helbert Antoine A. Achay, Branch Banking Group Head for Central and Eastern Visayas; First Vice President Zandro Carlos P. Sison, Corporate Affairs Department Head; Cebu Branch Head Ryan B. Pastrana; and Corporate Social Responsibility Unit Head Alni Dorothy Alfa R. Emphasis.

The assistance will be granted under the DBP Integrated Scholastic Program for Inclusive and Responsive Education, or DBP INSPIRE. Around P8 million has been allocated for the initial batch of 40 scholars. Priority courses include engineering, sciences, information technology, accountancy and maritime programs.

The scholarship covers the full baccalaureate degree and extends support until the scholars complete their board examinations. Benefits include full tuition coverage and a monthly allowance to be released through the university.

Scholars were chosen by the University of Cebu based on academic performance and financial need. The program targets students from economically challenged households, strengthening efforts to make higher education more accessible in Cebu.

Officials from both institutions said the partnership is an investment in the region’s future professionals, giving deserving students a fair chance to succeed. | via Shadne Genterone

19/02/2026

PMA Alumni to Gather for 2026 Homecoming; Lifetime Achievement Awardees Named

The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) will host its much-anticipated Alumni Homecoming on February 21, 2026 (Saturday) at Fort Del Pilar in Baguio City, bringing together generations of Cavaliers in a celebration anchored on honor, unity, and excellence.

With the theme “Fostering Unity and Excellence: Strengthening Bonds and Advancing Traditions,” this year’s homecoming will highlight the Academy’s enduring core values of Honor, Patriotism, Professionalism, Commitment, and Excellence, as reflected in the official program
Lacson as Guest of Honor

Serving as Guest of Honor and Speaker is Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson, President Pro Tempore of the Senate of the Philippines. The program will open with arrival honors at 8:30 a.m. at the Sundial Area, followed by the traditional Alumni Parade at the Fajardo Grandstand

Highlights of the parade include the singing of the National Anthem, posting of class colors, trooping the line, and the singing of the PMA Alma Mater Song, “PMA, Oh Hail to Thee,” underscoring the Academy’s proud heritage and tradition

Lifetime Achievement Awardees

One of the major highlights of the homecoming is the awarding of distinguished alumni. Named as Lifetime Achievement Awardees are:

Cav Jose C. Lapus, Class of 1965

Cav Danilo A. Abinoja, Class of 1974

Cav Ferdinand S. Golez, Class of 1976

Cav Leopoldo N. Bataoil, Class of 1976

The Lifetime Achievement Award is among the highest recognitions conferred upon PMA alumni, honoring Cavaliers whose careers exemplify exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to the nation.

Recognition of Cavalier Awardees and Jubilarians

In addition to the Lifetime Achievement Awardees, several alumni will receive Cavalier Awards across various fields, including Command and Administration, Staff Functions, Army, Naval and Air Operations, Police and Coast Guard Operations, Private Enterprise, Alumni Affairs, Science and Technology, Education and Social Development, Global Security and Development, and Special Operations

The ceremony will also feature the donning of medallions to jubilarians: the Diamond Jubilarians (Class of ’66), Golden Jubilarians (Class of ’76), and Silver Jubilarians (Class of ’01), marking milestone anniversaries since their graduation

Upholding the PMA Vision

As stated in the PMA Charter Statement included in the official program, the Academy envisions reaching international standards in producing principled and competent military officers by 2028

Its mission remains steadfast: to instruct, train, and develop cadets who possess the character and military skills essential for a progressive military career.

The 2026 Alumni Homecoming is not only a reunion of classes but a reaffirmation of the Academy’s enduring commitment to shaping leaders of integrity, courage, and loyalty — values that continue to guide PMA graduates in service to the country.

Video from Philippine Military Academy "Face-Bok"

19/02/2026

Experience Japan’s most vibrant summer with Philippine Airlines’ special fares

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) invites travelers to welcome the season of sun‑soaked adventures with a limited-time seat sale to Japan, with one-way Economy base fares starting at just USD 84, running until February 20, 2026.

Travel period begins on June 1, 2026, making it the perfect opportunity to experience Japan in early summer – a season filled with color, culture and unforgettable getaways.

PAL flies nonstop to Japan from Manila, serving Tokyo Haneda, Tokyo Narita, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Sapporo — and from Cebu with direct flights to Osaka and Tokyo Narita.

Immerse in Japan’s summer festivals and fireworks season, where the streets come alive with traditional performances and charming displays light up the night sky.

Passengers can expect their journeys to be even more memorable when flying with PAL, where heartfelt Filipino hospitality is matched by consistently reliable service. This commitment to excellence is proven by PAL's recognition from global aviation analytics firm Cirium as the top on-time performer among Asia-Pacific carriers for 2025—ensuring travelers can depend on PAL to deliver punctual and hassle-free flights.

Start mapping out the summer adventure you’ve been dreaming of. Book through the PAL website at www.philippineairlines.com, PAL mobile app, PAL hotline at (+63) 8855 8888, or via your preferred ticketing offices or travel agents. Visit https://flights.philippineairlines.com/en-ph/ for more information.

For more updates, travel inspiration, and exclusive offers, follow PAL on social media and join the conversation using . Connect with us on Facebook @/PhilippineAirlines, and on Instagram, IG Reels, and IG Stories at . For fun and engaging travel content, check us out on TikTok at Philippine Airlines

14/02/2026

𝐍𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑 𝐒𝐤𝐲𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐤 𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮 𝐍𝐨𝐰 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧, 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮’𝐬 𝐒𝐤𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞

Cebu’s skyline has reached new heights with the official opening of the NUSTAR Skydeck Cebu on February 1, 2026. Located at the highest floor of NUSTAR Hotel Cebu, the newest attraction of NUSTAR Resort Cebu offers guests a breathtaking, 360-degree perspective of the city, coastline, and surrounding waters.

Designed as a semi-circular glass walkway that extends from the tower’s façade, the Skydeck rises more than 100 meters above sea level, delivering an exhilarating yet secure experience. From this vantage point, visitors can take in sweeping views of Cebu City’s urban landscape on one side and the vast blue expanse of the sea on the other — a rare panorama that captures the island’s vibrant contrast of city and shore.

More than just a viewing deck, the NUSTAR Skydeck introduces a themed “surrealism” journey from the moment guests arrive.
Immersive design elements, playful sky- and ocean-inspired visuals, and ambient installations build anticipation before guests step onto the glass walkway. The experience blends art, architecture, and scenery, transforming a simple sightseeing stop into a multisensory attraction.

Engineered to the highest safety standards, the structure provides ample space for visitors to pause, take photographs, and fully appreciate the scenery from above. Whether for sunset viewing, special occasions, or simply a new perspective of Cebu, the Skydeck adds a dynamic dimension to the city’s tourism and lifestyle offerings.

Introductory admission is priced at PHP 500 net per person. Tickets may be purchased online via e-ticket.nustar.ph or on-site at the NUSTAR Skydeck ticket booth located on the ground floor of NUSTAR Hotel Cebu.

About NUSTAR Resort Cebu

NUSTAR Resort Cebu, stylized as NUSTAR, is the first and only premier integrated resort in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
Owned and operated by Universal Hotels and Resorts, Inc., a member of the Gokongwei Group, the resort features world-class entertainment, luxury accommodations, diverse dining concepts, and curated retail experiences.

NUSTAR is home to the region’s largest gaming floor; The Mall — the first and only luxury shopping mall in the area; Fili Hotel; the ultra-luxury NUSTAR Hotel Cebu; The Boardwalk; the NUSTAR Skydeck; and the soon-to-open Grand Summit Hotel.
For more information, visit nustar.ph or call (032) 888 8282.

13/02/2026

Wander Beyond Borders: CTCI’s 10th Anniversary Travel Expo Ignites Global Adventures at Ayala Center Cebu

If you’ve been dreaming of your next passport stamp, sunset escape, or spontaneous weekend getaway, the Cebu Travel Catalog International (CTCI) 2026 is where your journey begins.

Now celebrating a decade of “Endless Journeys,” CTCI officially opened its milestone 10th edition on February 13 at Ayala Center Cebu, transforming the mall into a vibrant gateway to the world. With the theme “Wander Beyond Borders,” this year’s expo is not just a showcase—it’s an invitation to explore farther, travel smarter, and dream bigger.

From February 13 to 15, travelers can immerse themselves in a three-day celebration packed with exclusive travel deals, curated experiences, and meaningful conversations with the industry’s biggest names. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo soul-searching trip, CTCI offers something for every type of explorer.

Adding a spark of romance to the weekend is the Valentine’s Day Travelove Concert on February 14—perfect for couples mapping out their next love-filled destination. On February 15, visitors can gain valuable insights at the Travel Talk Show and take part in the much-awaited Travel Auction, where exciting travel packages go under the hammer for a cause. Proceeds from the auction will support students from a selected school, blending wanderlust with goodwill.

The event opened with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting led by key industry partners, symbolizing collaboration and renewed momentum in tourism. Present during the opening were leaders from Amadeus, Cebu Safari, Emirates, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Jpark Island Resort, and United Neon Advertising Inc.—a testament to the strong alliances powering this milestone year.

Travelers eager to level up their journeys should not miss WanderTalks on February 15 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Featuring Dr. Xavier Solis (), Tara Bontol (), and Sinjin Pineda (), the session promises real-life travel stories, practical hacks, and expert insights designed to inspire more meaningful adventures.

Over the past ten years, CTCI has grown from a regional travel fair into Cebu’s most trusted tourism platform, connecting global airlines, international tourism boards, top travel agencies, and luxury resorts under one roof. It continues to strengthen Cebu’s role as a dynamic hub linking the Philippines to the world.

“CTCI has grown because of ten years of shared journeys and strong partnerships, fueled by a collective passion for travel. Our milestone reminds us of how far we have come together,” said Cebu Travel and Tours Association (CTTA) President Alan Carvajal.

This year’s global lineup includes major airlines such as Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, Emirates, EVA Airways, STARLUX, Sunlight Air, and Turkish Airlines. International tourism boards like the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the Korea Tourism Organization are also present, alongside premier hotels, resorts, theme parks, travel agencies, banks, and insurance companies offering exclusive on-site promos.

Behind the success of CTCI 2026 is a powerful network of partners—from the Cebu City Government and the Department of Tourism to major sponsors including Turkish Airlines, Newport World Resorts, Philippine Airlines, Amadeus, Cebu Safari & Adventure Park, Emirates, and NUSTAR Resort Cebu, among many others.

As CTCI Chairperson Angelita Dy reaffirmed, the 10th anniversary is more than a celebration—it’s a commitment. “Now that we have reached ten years of Endless Journeys, we reaffirm our commitment to building global connections. We believe travel experiences should go beyond borders,” she said.

Open to the public at Ayala Center Cebu, CTCI 2026 is not just an expo—it’s where itineraries are born, bucket lists are rewritten, and new stories begin.

Because as the world comes closer, the journey continues.

Cebu Island News

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