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Cebu Island News, Cebu City (2025)

28/08/2025

Governor Baricuatro Declines RDC-7 Nomination, Endorses Archival in the Spirit of Unity

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro gracefully declined her nomination for chairperson or co-chairperson of the Regional Development Council in Central Visayas (RDC-7), emphasizing unity among local leaders during the council’s special Full Council Organizational Meeting held Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the City Sports Club.

“Thank you very much for the nomination. However, I would like to give way to Cebu City Mayor Engineer Nestor Archival for the sake of unity. As People’s Governor, atong gusto panaghiusa. Gubot na kung tulo pami,” Baricuatro said, drawing applause and cheers from other members.

Her decision effectively narrowed the choices and prevented a council vote. Had she accepted the nomination, the RDC would have had to deliberate among three candidates: Baricuatro, Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, and Cebu City Mayor Archival.

With Baricuatro stepping aside, only Aumentado and Archival remained as nominees for RDC-7 chairperson. From the private sector, nominees for co-chairperson included Melisimo Agreo of Bohol and Melanie Ng of Cebu.

As provided under existing rules, the nominations will be forwarded to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who will appoint the official RDC-7 chairperson and co-chairperson.

The RDC serves as the highest policymaking and coordinating body for development planning in the region, aligning local priorities with the national government’s agenda to promote balanced and sustainable growth across Central Visayas.| via

27/08/2025

𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗡 𝗦𝗔 𝗦𝗨𝗚𝗕𝗢, 𝗡𝗢𝗧 𝗔 𝗣𝗥𝗜𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗬

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro announced during her weekly press conference on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 that the Hapitanan sa Sugbo or Tourist Rest Areas (TRA) project is no longer a priority for the provincial government, as her administration shifts focus to strengthening the healthcare system.

The Hapitanan facilities feature solar-powered amenities such as air-conditioned lounges, charging stations, tourist information centers, and restrooms with minimal fees. While the sites in Pinamungajan and Santander are fully operational and Camotes has begun construction, projects in Dumanjug, Balamban, Bogo, Pilar, Tudela, Madridejos, and Poro remain incomplete.

According to the governor, the ₱6 million allocated for each unfinished facility will be redirected to hospital upgrades and other health-related programs, which she considers a more urgent need for the province.

She also noted that some proposed locations, particularly in Pilar and Tudela, have yet to demonstrate strong tourism activity, making the projects less viable. In place of certain Hapitanan, the Capitol plans to establish People’s Food Centers, patterned after the Busay model, to provide farmers with direct access to consumers. | # CebuIslandnews

26/08/2025

LOOK: Traffic update as of 9:15 AM, Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at the northbound lane of the SRP viaduct in Cebu City.

23/08/2025

Governor Baricuatro Leads Two-Day Medical, Surgical, Dental, and Legal Mission in Balamban

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro arrived at the Balamban Provincial Hospital for a two-day series of medical surgeries and a caravan of services in the town, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, August 23–24, 2025.

Together with Provincial Administrator Ace Durano and Piso Health Consultant Nikki Catalan, Governor Baricuatro officially opened the Medical, Surgical, Dental, and Legal Mission on Saturday, August 23, at the Cebu Provincial Hospital in the Municipality of Balamban.

The mission aims to provide free medical and legal services to residents, particularly those in need of specialized care and support. Doctors, dentists, surgeons, and volunteer lawyers were mobilized to ensure that communities in the western part of Cebu can access essential health and legal assistance.

Governor Baricuatro emphasized that the activity reflects the provincial government’s continued commitment to deliver accessible and holistic services to its constituents.

“This mission is not only about providing treatment but also about showing our people that the government is here to listen, support, and care for them,” she said during the opening program.

The event forms part of the province’s ongoing health and community outreach initiatives, strengthening partnerships between government officials, healthcare professionals, and civic organizations.

The mission will run until Sunday, August 24, giving Balamban residents and neighboring towns the opportunity to avail themselves of free consultations, minor surgeries, dental check-ups, and legal advice.

18/08/2025

𝐄𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐬 𝐓𝐕 𝐓𝐨 𝐑𝐨𝐜𝐤 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮 𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟐𝟑

Cebu music fans are in for an unforgettable treat as Elias TV brings his much-anticipated concert to Waterworld Cebu on August 23, 2025

The event promises to be more than just a concert—it’s an experience. Audiences can look forward to electrifying performances, high-energy beats, and the unique thrill of enjoying live music in one of Cebu’s most exciting water-themed

For those looking for a night filled with music, entertainment, and the vibrant Cebu crowd, Elias TV Live at Waterworld is a must-see event.

📅 When:August 23, 2025
📍 Where:Waterworld Cebu

🎟️ Tickets are now available. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind concert experience!

18/08/2025

𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐄𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥

Cebu Province is taking a significant step toward revitalizing its sports development program with plans to establish the Cebu Provincial Sports Council—an initiative that seeks to unite sports leaders and organizations across the province.

Assistant Provincial Administrator Aldwin Empaces met with representatives from the Cebu Volleyball Association and Cebu United Football Club on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the Capitol Conference Room to begin discussions on the council’s creation.

The move marks the start of a long-term vision to harness sports as a driver of personal growth, character building, and community development.

The provincial government had earlier created the Cebu Province Sports Commission in 2013 through an ordinance sponsored by the late Provincial Board Member Raul “Yayoy” Alcoseba, but the body became inactive in 2019.

According to Empaces, the proposed Sports Council will be composed of leaders from different disciplines—including basketball, volleyball, football, tennis, table tennis, baseball, and softball, among others. Unlike previous efforts limited to organizing tournaments, the council will spearhead year-round grassroots training programs aimed at developing athletic skills while instilling values such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience.

“Governor Pam Baricuatro is not only after the skills developed but also the character built among the participants,” Empaces said, stressing that inclusivity will be a core principle of the program.
He noted that the opportunities will not only cater to student-athletes but will also extend to out-of-school youth, offering them chances to discover their potential while motivating them to return to education.

By nurturing both talent and character, the initiative aims to produce well-rounded individuals who can excel not only in sports but also in life. Beyond individual development, officials believe the council will strengthen Cebu’s competitiveness in national events such as the Palarong Pambansa.

With a more structured and collaborative framework for sports development, Cebu Province envisions a unified sports community that can serve as a model for other provinces.

The establishment of the Cebu Provincial Sports Council represents more than athletic competition—it is about building champions on and off the field, fostering unity, and shaping the next generation of leaders through the power of sports. |

08/08/2025

IRONMAN 70.3 Returns to Lapu-Lapu with Strong Support from Cebu Province

As Lapu-Lapu City celebrates 11 years of hosting the prestigious IRONMAN 70.3, Cebu once again extends its warm hospitality to elite triathletes and sports enthusiasts from around the world.

Cebu Provincial Information Officer Ainjeliz Dela Torre-Arong welcomed 15 professional triathletes—mostly from Australia and New Zealand, many of whom are returning competitors—during a press conference at Belmont Hotel, Mactan Newtown. These pros are among over 1,400 participants from more than 50 countries expected to compete in this Sunday’s race, August 10.

“Today, you may feel like a guest, but after the race, we hope you feel at home right here in Cebu,” said Arong. She emphasized that Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro, currently in Camotes Island for a two-day medical mission, views IRONMAN 70.3 as a powerful driver of both tourism and the local sports economy.

Joining Arong at the press event were key partners and stakeholders including Atty. Rose Versoza of CCLEX, Faye Alonzo of 2Go, ABC President and Basak Barangay Captain Jasmin Chan-Olmstead, Princess Galura of Sunrise Events, Inc., Cleofe Albiso of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, and Lapu-Lapu City OIC Tourism Officer Garry Lao. The event was presented by Megaworld.

A Showcase of Grit, Culture, and Hospitality

More than just a race, the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu celebrates athletic excellence and highlights the city’s rich cultural heritage and tourism appeal. With its world-class beaches, historical landmarks, vibrant festivals, and the signature warmth of the Oponganon community, Lapu-Lapu City has earned its place as a favorite among triathletes.

One of the most iconic features of this year’s race is the 90-kilometer bike leg along the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX)—the country’s longest and tallest bridge. Spanning 8.9 kilometers, CCLEX offers scenic coastal views that are both breathtaking and challenging, testing each athlete’s stamina, focus, and mental toughness.

Road to the World Championship in Nice, France

Beyond medals and podium finishes, this year’s IRONMAN 70.3 offers Filipino triathletes a coveted opportunity: 35 qualifying slots each for men and women in the age-group categories for the 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Nice, France.

The Mactan Newtown racecourse, where the event is staged, serves as a stepping stone for local athletes aiming to compete on the sport’s grandest international stage. Nice, which last hosted the championship in 2019, promises a demanding yet visually stunning course along the French Riviera. For many Filipino competitors, earning a slot is not just a goal—it’s the culmination of years of training, sacrifice, and dedication.

The race also underscores IRONMAN’s continued commitment to gender equality in sports, with equal qualifying opportunities across all divisions.

Star-Studded Pro Line-Up

This year’s pro roster is headlined by 2023 IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu runner-up Sam Osborne of New Zealand. He is joined by top Australian contenders Caleb Noble, Calvin Amos, Brett Clifford, Josh Ferris, Tomasso Puccini, and Nicholas Free, as well as Kiwi powerhouse Mike Phillips.

The women’s elite division will feature New Zealand’s Samantha Kingsford and Australia’s Paige Cranage, bringing a strong mix of experience, skill, and youthful drive to the competition.

As Cebu ushers in a new decade of IRONMAN events, the 2025 edition of IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu promises not just an exciting race, but a celebration of resilience, global camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of triathlon. |

07/08/2025

WATCH: How a Small Cooperative Took the Big Leap Into Fish Farming to Support Gov. Pam Baricuatro’s Food Security Program 🎣🐟

The Kor Landa Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative (KLEMPC) dives into sustainable aquaculture with its new fish cage project in Agus, Lapu-Lapu City — helping feed communities while inspiring the next generation of Cebuanos to stay, farm, and build a future here instead of seeking opportunities abroad.

06/08/2025

UC WEBMASTERS OFF TO HOT START IN MAASIN CITY INTER-COLLEGIATE BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

The University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters opened their campaign with an 87-62 rout of PMI Colleges Bohol Sailors in the 1st Mayor Luz V. Mercado Inter-Collegiate Invitational Basketball Tournament on Wednesday, August 6, at the Maasin City Gym in Southern Leyte.

UC was ahead by only four, 26-22, after the first 10 minutes of play, but dropped an 18-7 bomb in the second period to rip the game apart, 44-29, halftime.

The Webmasters kept sending the Sailors into rough waters the rest of the way leading to a masterful 25-point demolition. | via University of Cebu Webmasters Basketball Team

06/08/2025

GOVERNOR BARICUATRO LEADS OPENING OF TWO NEW SUGBUCAS CENTERS IN CEBU

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro led the inauguration of two new Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services (SugBUCAS) centers located at the Capitol and Sudlon on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 — marking another milestone in the province’s push for accessible and quality healthcare.

Governor Baricuatro was joined by Vice Governor Glenn Soco and key officials from the Department of Health (DOH), including Assistant Secretary Atty. Christian Lel M. Saquilabon, cluster lead of the Health Regulations and Facility Development Cluster (HRFDC); Dr. Gerardo M. Aquino Jr., Medical Center Chief II of Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC); and Dr. Joshua Brillantes, Regional Director of DOH Central Visayas Center for Health Development (CVCHD).

Also in attendance were Cebu City Mayor Nestor Dionson Archival Sr., Provincial Board Member Stanley Caminero, Director IV of the DOH Health Facilities and Services Regulatory Bureau (HFSRB), Dr. Clive Tabuena, head of SUGBUCAS Capitol, and Dr. Gerardo Christopher Aquino, head of SUGBUCAS Sudlon.

The two new centers — SUGBUCAS Capitol and SUGBUCAS Sudlon — are the fourth and fifth SUGBUCAS facilities established in Cebu province.

The first center was launched in Carcar City on April 4, 2024, followed by the second in Bantayan Island on April 16, 2024.

Governor Baricuatro emphasized the importance of decentralizing health services, saying the SUGBUCAS centers are designed to decongest major hospitals and provide immediate outpatient care closer to communities. These facilities are equipped to handle urgent medical needs and minor procedures, complementing the province's larger health institutions.

SugBUCAS is a project under the Department of Health in Central Visayas (DOH 7) and is led by the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC).

05/08/2025

NGCP strengthens grid readiness with Annual Blackout Drills

NGCP continues to improve its grid response capabilities in case of large-scale power outages or system disturbances with the conduct of its annual Blackout Drills.
Conducted separately for the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao grids, the NGCP-led Blackout Drills aligns the contingency response of every player in the energy sector, particularly the generation plants.

With the theme “Blackout Readiness: Strengthening Response Capabilities,” the Annual Blackout Drill included both tabletop discussions and practical simulation exercises.

“Through these drills, NGCP can evaluate communication protocols, assess response times, and strengthen coordination efforts. We are able to identify weaknesses, if any, and address them proactively, in coordination with our partner stakeholders,” NGCP said.

The table-top presentations include discussions on black start services, actual restoration
experiences, blackout restoration guidelines and procedures, breakout sessions, and workshops focusing on area-specific blackout restoration highways. A simulation drill is held a week after the tabletop presentation to replicate an actual blackout scenario.

The activity was attended by stakeholders from the generation sector and distribution sector, as well as representatives from the Department of Energy (DOE) and Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM), National Power Corporation (NPC), National Transmission Corporation (TransCo), Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), Philippine Electricity Market Corporation (PEMC), Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP), Philippine Independent Power Producers Association Inc. (PIPPA), and National Electrification Administration (NEA).

One of NGCP’s main functions as the country’s transmission operator is to constantly enhance operational efficiency of power transmission network operations, particularly that of System Operations.

Photo by Arlene Solis Chua

04/08/2025

The 2025 Honda Riders’ Convention Comes Alive in Cebu with Unmatched Energy and Camaraderie

The Honda Riders’ Convention 2025 ignited the city of Cebu with adrenaline, unity, and innovation as Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) launched the first leg of its nationwide celebration. As the country’s No. 1 motorcycle manufacturer, Honda once again brought together thousands of riders from across the Visayas for a weekend that blended thrilling rides, cutting-edge technology, and the joy of being part of a passionate and growing community.

More than just an annual gathering, the Riders’ Convention has become a defining tradition for Honda motorcycle enthusiasts, club members, and long-time riders alike. With the energy high and excitement palpable, the Visayas leg proved why this event continues to capture the hearts of Honda fans nationwide.

The event opened with test rides that gave participants the rare chance to experience Honda’s latest Electric Vehicles and Big Bikes. From city cruisers to high-performance models, attendees took to the track, including those who challenged themselves in the Gymkhana Challenge aboard the dynamic Winner X. Whether seasoned riders or first-timers, everyone felt the unmistakable joy that comes with being in control of a Honda.

At the heart of the convention was the Honda Technology Center—an interactive zone where guests explored the brand’s most innovative features up close. Attendees got hands-on with the RoadSync connectivity on the ADV350 and PCX160, as well as Honda’s pioneering e-Clutch and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) systems found in the powerful X-ADV750. The showcase offered a glimpse into the smarter, smoother, and more connected future that Honda is shaping for riders everywhere.

Riders who journeyed from far-flung provinces were met with warm welcomes and recognition. The gathering celebrated not only machines, but also the spirit of community, highlighted by Club Recognition ceremonies for the most active and dedicated groups. This sense of brotherhood and shared identity remains one of the most powerful aspects of the Honda Riders’ Convention.

A major highlight of the day was the Motorshow, where custom-built and big bikes turned heads. Each motorcycle on display was a reflection of its owner’s personality and creativity, transforming the venue into a gallery of lifestyle, freedom, and self-expression on two wheels.

Meanwhile, the trade area became a hotspot for attendees, offering exclusive discounts and rider-only deals on gear, accessories, and more. From protective helmets to stylish riding apparel and performance parts, the shopping experience was just as thrilling as the rides themselves.

The main stage pulsed with non-stop excitement—from games and club shout-outs to generous raffles and entertainment. The atmosphere stayed electric throughout the day, keeping crowds engaged and energized until nightfall.

Capping off the event was an electrifying performance by Sponge Cola. The iconic Filipino rock band turned the entire convention into a concert party, igniting the crowd with hit after hit. The band’s high-energy set had riders singing along and waving their hands in the air, closing the day on an unforgettable high note that perfectly captured the spirit of the convention.

Adding to the day’s big moments was the official launch of the All-New Honda NAVi—a bold and compact scooter designed for fun, convenience, and daily urban adventures. With its unique styling, lightweight build, and mini-bike inspiration, the NAVi quickly became a crowd favorite. Its customizability, fuel efficiency, and street-smart design impressed local riders, many calling it “sulit,” “astig,” and a perfect match for both their personality and practical needs.

As the Honda Riders’ Convention gears up for its next stops in Mindanao and Luzon, one thing is certain: the Joy of Having a Honda is stronger than ever. This celebration isn’t just about the motorcycles—it’s about the freedom, friendships, and unforgettable memories made along the way.

Ride. Unite. Celebrate. That’s the Honda way.

For more information, visit [www.hondaph.com](http://www.hondaph.com) and follow Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. For inquiries, call (02)-8581-6700 to 6799 or 0917-884-6632.

Cebu Island News

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