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Coming home to a newly-improved Lanao del Sur
Marawi City is that one dreamy place that proves the Philippines has more to offer than meets the eye. [caption id="attachment_158168" align="aligncenter" width="525"] THE Islamic municipality of Tamparan has40 mosques.[/caption] Imagine seeing the iconic and age-old Lake Lanao flanked by two majestic mountain ranges and the Grand Mosque, the great Islamic sanctuary of the nation. Prior to the pandemic, these were the lone attractions drawing visitors to the capital of Lanao del Sur. For those desiring a tourist experience, a mere half-day in Marawi gave you everything you needed. Times have changed, however. During a recent return to my beloved hometown, I found myself pleasantly taken aback by the exquisite accommodations I was provided at the newly established Ridge Hotel. This modern marvel boasts an array of state-of-the-art indulgences, a culinary haven curated by a gifted chef, a reliable and uninterrupted WiFi connection, elegant function rooms and staff composed entirely of graduates in the fields of tourism and hotel management, epitomizing maximum professionalism. My invitation to the momentous launch of the month-long celebration commemorating the 64th founding anniversary of Lanao del Sur, extended personally by the honorable Governor Datu Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr., a longstanding friend, and his son, Vice Governor Mujam Adiong, granted me a very endearing visit. The distinguished presence of Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo as a special guest at the event further strengthened the shared kinship between the Philippines and Indonesia. Ambassador Widjojo noted that he felt a profound sense of belonging in the Philippines, given the shared commitment to the faith in Allah prevalent in the Muslim provinces of both nations. [caption id="attachment_158164" align="aligncenter" width="525"] indonesia Ambassador to the Philippines Agus Widjojo and Lanao Del Sur Governor Mamintal A. Adiong Jr.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_158166" align="aligncenter" width="525"] CHICKEN Satay with peanut sauce.PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/ALTITUDECAFE22[/caption] During this noteworthy occasion, the stunning performances of amateur talents and the captivating folk cultural ensemble known as Sining Kambayoka enraptured the audience. Their compelling Maranaw dances were accompanied by resonant melodies deriving from the kulintang ensemble. As the month unfolds, the province has laid out a comprehensive roster of events, including necessary medical outreach programs, magnetic agricultural exhibits, refreshing lake tours, a pivotal health summit and a scrumptious food festival, all to be held in the month of July. Trip down heaven road Indeed, my favorite one, Heaven Road, echoes the preferences of both locals and visitors alike. Nestled atop a panoramic hill, this majestic thoroughfare is adorned with charming cafés that gracefully connect Mindanao State University to the provincial capitol. The place shows Marawi’s ability to reinvent itself, seamlessly integrating current trends with the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. A common sight along Heaven Road is that of baristas in their taqiyah, or men’s prayer caps, and servers adorned in hijabs, the traditional headscarves worn by women. In fact, Heaven Road has become an irresistible muse for countless vloggers, who capture spectacular vistas of the surrounding landscape. On sun-drenched days, the ethereal clouds nearly graze the towering mountains, while after rainfall, a mystical mist envelops the terrain, thus explaining its moniker, Heaven Road. Aptly referred to as the “Baguio of Mindanao,” this sanctuary is well-known for its delicate climate and awe-inspiring sights of verdant forests, visible through the coffee shop windows. Earlier this year, the renowned Cebu-based chain, Bo’s Coffee, inaugurated its grandest Philippine outlet, sprawling across 1,000 square meters at Heaven Road. In addition to serving its signature homegrown coffee blends and refreshing cold beverages, this establishment boasts a panoramic 360-degree view of Marawi City. The exquisite interiors harmoniously incorporate traditional Meranaw architectural elements, such as the resplendent okir patterns, meticulously painted in vibrant hues along the facade. Its deign motifs ingeniously pay homage to the distinctive malong patterns. Haven Coffee and Tea, an establishment owned by a visionary entrepreneur hailing from Iligan City, has garnered significant attention on the social media platforms of the youthful Meranaw populace. Meticulously prepared to embody an original concept while fervently supporting local products and talent, this haven offers an unparalleled culinary experience. Its collection of lattés, rice meals, flavorful plates of pasta, delectable sandwiches, and sweet cakes are nothing short of extraordinary. Haven Coffee and Tea skillfully capitalizes on its sprawling al fresco dining area, affording patrons dazzling sceneries of the mountains during the day, and enchanting city lights after dusk. It is not uncommon to witness outdoor seminars hosted beneath sleek tents, as companies seek solace in the tranquil ambiance. As night descends, visitors are presented with a choice between submerging themselves in the melodious performances of live acoustic bands and Meranaw pop singers or opting for a quieter corner, where they can internalize the symphony of chirping crickets. Cafe Sindaw, renowned for its exquisite beverages and coffee offerings, goes beyond mere refreshments, upholding a hard-and-fast adherence to excellence. This reputable establishment prides itself on maintaining an impeccable standing among cafe shops in the city. In addition to its premium culinary offerings, Cafe Sindaw boasts a collection of fashionable function rooms, ideal for hosting both formal and informal gatherings with an air of sophistication. Other esteemed cafés in the vicinity provide an extensive selection of milk teas, accompanied by delectable sinkers, as well as an assortment of cold beverages and delectable pastries. Altitude Café in Marawi City offers a captivating dining experience that combines elegance with Asian-inspired flavors. With a chic and contemporary interior, the spacious and well-lit dining area provides a serene ambiance for a casual brunch or stylish evening out. The menu showcases a fusion of Asian and Lanao Del Sur’s culinary traditions, skillfully prepared by gifted chefs. From rich stir-fries to exquisite pastas, each dish echoes a devotion to culinary distinction, using locally sourced ingredients to herald the unique flavors of Marawi. Additionally, the café’s soaring location provides breathtaking scenic sights of Marawi City’s landscapes, enhancing the overall dining experience. For those in search of treasured souvenirs, Sarimanok Road unveils a trove of shops offering exquisite Meranaw crafts, timeless antiques, and an array of dry goods. Moreover, a diverse range of eateries grace this avenue, expertly preparing tantalizing halal meals, capable of satiating the desires of non-Muslim visitors. Determined to maintain my early morning exercise routine, I embraced the opportunity to embark upon invigorating jogs around the MSU track oval. As I briskly traversed the circuit, I reveled in the crisp, refreshing weather and inhaled the pure, unpolluted air. During my leisurely moments, I sought solace in reconnecting with long-lost friends and cherished relatives. Observing the burgeoning prosperity and urbanity prevalent throughout the city filled me with an overwhelming sense of pride. Once accustomed to witnessing influential families accompanied by their entourage of armed enforcers, I was pleasantly surprised to encounter neatly attired security guards, and their radiant smiles as they graciously opened doors. Marawi City, now blossoming into a haven incorporating every aspect that tourists seek, effortlessly negates the need to venture into neighboring cities. Entrepreneurs, driven by an unwavering faith in Marawi City’s resurgence, continue to establish small businesses, actively extending employment opportunities to their less-fortunate kin. Young individuals, armed with a quality education, now opt to remain in Marawi, actively participating in the monumental task of rebuilding the economy. Likewise, healthcare professionals, driven by an unwavering commitment to serve their homeland, have chosen to dedicate their skills within the city’s borders, rather than seeking greener pastures abroad. Going back to Tamparan During my journey, a valuable opportunity presented itself to reconnect with friends spanning different generations. Curiosity led me to venture into Tamparan, the sole Islamic municipality, merely a brief 30-minute ride from Marawi. To my awe, Tamparan revealed itself as a dynamic community, embellished with an impressive line of 40 mosques and inhabited by residents sporting their Islamic attire. The determined strength of their faith was palpable. I had the privilege of conducting an interview and was assured by one of the locals that exploring Tamparan is a safe endeavor, owing to the commendable leadership of Mayor Juhar Dimaporo Disomimba. Tamparan envisions itself as the agro-ecotourism and commercial center of Lanao del Sur. It aims to cultivate a community of God-loving and empowered citizens who thrive in a peaceful, resilient, safe and ecologically-balanced environment. This vision is supported by a progressive and transparent governance system that fosters growth and development. Representative Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur eloquently encapsulates Marawi’s triumphant resurgence with an air of optimism, declaring, “Let us not only celebrate our past achievements but also embrace the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. The post Coming home to a newly-improved Lanao del Sur appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Rota, Magis Eagles big man, invited to NBA basketball camp in Abu Dhabi
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu (SHS-AdC) Magis Eagles’ big man Jelo Mar Rota received a very rare opportunity to represent the Philippines in 13th Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Asia Camp of the National Basketball Association (NBA) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates later this year. Rota, a native of Bantayan Island […] The post Rota, Magis Eagles big man, invited to NBA basketball camp in Abu Dhabi appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cebu tourism on the rebound
Cebu-based real estate and hospitality firm AppleONe Group Inc. has launched an aggressive expansion initiative to dovetail with the programs of the Department of Tourism to attract international visitors to sustain the recovery of the tourism industry — a sector of the economy that was among the hardest hit by the Covid-19 pandemic — and create more jobs. Based on the DoT data, Cebu province saw a jump in the number of local and foreign visitors in 2022 by 205 percent. Furthermore, it received a total of 2.8 million visitors last year, which is higher by a mile than 902,000 in 2021. This year, the DoT estimated foreign and local tourist arrivals at 1.9 million, but AppleOne is confident that the numbers will surpass the projection, especially with its aggressive efforts to attract more tourists now that the borders are open, flights are back to normal and people are on the lookout for the best revenge travel ideas. “We are in talks with several international luxury brands to help us deliver world-class service and convenience in real estate and tourism-related projects that are now under development within and outside our home market of Cebu,” Ray Manigsaca, president of AppleOne, said. “We have identified several areas in other parts of the Visayas and Mindanao for our future development projects and diversification efforts,” he added. But the company said they are not ready to divulge any details yet, as these are all still in the works, and “we’ll be more than happy to share them with the public once AppleOne has inked these agreements and started on the projects.” Future projects “As of now we cannot yet disclose our future projects, but this year, and in the coming years, we are working on luxury developments in and outside Cebu,” the company said in an email message. AppleOne is looking to replicate in other parts of the Visayas and Mindanao, its brand of luxurious hotels as it aims to embark on partnerships that will uphold the company’s vision. Manigsaca said the company has engaged Marriott International, an internationally recognized hospitality brand, to ensure that The Residences at Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort, which sits along a stretch of white sand beach, offers modern conveniences and five-star hotel amenities. Mahi Center, meantime, is AppleOne’s response to the need to advance the information technology industry in Lapu-Lapu City. Mahi Center also offers well-curated retail experiences via a boutique mall, office spaces for IT businesses with direct access to the mall and a business hotel from global hotel brand Marriott International which will be Fairfield by Marriott Mactan, the first in the country. Central Visayas welcomed 3.6 million foreign and local tourists in 2022, more than triple the 1.2 million recorded in 2021. Cebu accounted for 2.7 million of those visitors in Central Visayas, underscoring its status as one of the premier tourist destinations in the Philippines. Manigsaca and his wife, Venus, founded AppleOne in Cebu City 12 years ago to diversify their then 17-year-old construction company, VenRay, which focused on building roads and bridges. The post Cebu tourism on the rebound appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Alcover wants city’s local breeders to take advantage of ASF-situation, pig supply shortage
CEBU CITY, Philippines– While Cebu island closed its borders from swine and pork products coming from regions and areas with reported African Swine Fever (ASF) cases, a councilor here sees this as an opportunity for local breeders to supply commercial pigs for ‘competitive advantage.’ Cebu City Councilor Pastor Alcover, Jr., in his privilege speech, during […] The post Alcover wants city’s local breeders to take advantage of ASF-situation, pig supply shortage appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Bohol suspends inbound non-essential travels from Aug. 6 to Aug. 20
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Starting August 6, 2021, Bohol will be temporarily closing its borders for inbound non-essential travels. Bohol Governor Arthur Yap on Tuesday, August 3, issued Executive Order (EO) No. 37, ordering the suspension of air and sea travel from August 6 until August 20. Yap, in his EO, said that halting the […] The post Bohol suspends inbound non-essential travels from Aug. 6 to Aug. 20 appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cebu City to allow inter-LGU jeepneys by the end of January
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu City government will finally open its borders to inter-local government units (LGU) jeepneys after a monthlong review on the operation of jeepneys in the city. Councilor James Cuenco said in a phone conference that Mayor Edgardo Labella will release an executive order by the end of January 2021 to […] The post Cebu City to allow inter-LGU jeepneys by the end of January appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
CCPO to strictly patrol city’s borders
DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental — The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) will again start to closely monitor persons who will be entering the city. This is in line with the strict enforcement of minimum health standard protocols following the order of Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella in light of the recent surge in COVID-19 cases […] The post CCPO to strictly patrol city’s borders appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Labella closes Cebu City borders for non-essential entry, q-pass coding returns on Nov. 16
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cebu City will be closing its borders to individuals who have no essential purpose to visit the city amid the spike of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases starting 5:01 a.m. on November 16, 2020. Mayor Edgardo Labella announced the border restrictions on the evening of Saturday, November 14, 2020, after the […] The post Labella closes Cebu City borders for non-essential entry, q-pass coding returns on Nov. 16 appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Garcia checks borders on 1st day of strict border controls in Cebu
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Despite the drizzle this afternoon, June 26, 2020, Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia still pushed through with the inspection of the borders between Cebu province and Cebu City on the first day of the implementation of the reinstitution of stricter border controls under the Executive Order No. 17-H. Together with Police Colonel […] The post Garcia checks borders on 1st day of strict border controls in Cebu appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cebu to Rearrange Setup of Border Control
Governor Gwendolyn Garcia on Tuesday ordered to rearrange the strict border control with the capital city, as Cebu province’s contribution to Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu’s efforts in addressing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) contagion here. Garcia issued Executive Order No. 17-H, saying that “there is an urgent need to reinstitute the strict controls of borders defined […].....»»
Cebu Province ‘willing to help’ Cebu City but needs to close borders first
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia has assured that the province is willing to help Cebu City “in any way” amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) crisis but reiterates that it needs to close its borders for the city in the meantime to stop the spread of the infection. In a press conference this […] The post Cebu Province ‘willing to help’ Cebu City but needs to close borders first appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cebu closes borders with Cebu City anew
Cebu province is closing its borders with Cebu City again starting today in a bid to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 or COVID-19......»»
April ‘rock-bottom’ for aviation industry but initial signs of recovery seen
CEBU CITY, Philippines–A decline of 94.3 percent in international passenger demand last April was the lowest in the history of the aviation industry. A report published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) on June 3, 2020 found that April was a disastrous month for airline companies as countries shut their borders, effectively suspending operations […] The post April ‘rock-bottom’ for aviation industry but initial signs of recovery seen appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cebu City declares state of calamity in 28 mountain barangays due to el Niño
CEBU CITY, Philippines – In response to the escalating effects of the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, Cebu City has declared a “state of calamity” in 28 mountain barangays. This decision comes after a resolution was passed with reports of dwindling water sources and agricultural distress, prompting urgent measures to assist affected communities in the city. .....»»
CCLEX safety enhancements pushed after US bridge tragedy
Cebu City, Philippines — In light of recent events, a call for increased CCLEX safety measures has been made to the Cebu Cordova Link Expressway Corporation (CCLEC) by a Cebu City legislator. Councilor Rey Gealon penned a resolution urging CCLEC to implement precautionary measures at the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway to prevent disasters, considering the high.....»»
Church visits are allowed only until 10 p.m. – Police chief
CEBU CITY, Philippines – Church visits on Maundy Thursday will only be allowed until 10 p.m. the chief of the Cebu City police announced on Thursday, March 28. Police Colonel Ireneo B. Dalogdog, City Director of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) said that the public is not allowed inside religious places past 10:00 p.m......»»
Cebu topnotcher shares secret to success: Strong support system of family, friends
CEBU CITY, Philippines — A good support system of family and friends is Elijah Cabase’s secret to his placing 5th in the March 2024 Medical Technologists Licensure Examinations (MTLE). This 23-year-old University of Cebu-Banilad alumnus said that he was not even expecting to pass because he described himself as a confessed procrastinator — or one.....»»
Holy Week 2024: Tabor Hill in Talamban, experience the authentic essence of Via Crucis
CEBU CITY, Philippines – This Holy Week, the Via Crucis, also known as the Stations of the Cross, is one of the most practiced form of devotion among Catholics, particularly in the Philippines. The Via Crucis commemorates the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It typically involves a series of 14 stations.....»»
Capitol mulls putting ‘integrated south bus’ terminal in Talisay instead of at SRP
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Instead of at the South Road Properties (SRP), the new location of a new south bus terminal in Cebu might be in Talisay City. Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia on Wednesday, Mar. 27, said that they had received an unsolicited proposal of developing a brand new, south bus terminal. READ: Mayor Rama.....»»
Cebu bus terminals: 100,000 passengers expected on March 27
CEBU CITY, Philippines — At least 100,000 passengers are expected to flock to two of the biggest bus terminals here in Cebu for the Holy Week this year. As early as 7 a.m. on Holy Wednesday, dozens already queued for buses at the Cebu North Bus Terminal (CNBT) in the North Reclamation Area. READ MORE:.....»»