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Anissa Heights: For discerning home seekers
DMCI Homes’ upcoming project in Pasay City reaffirms the property developer’s commitment to providing quality housing options for a diverse range of home seekers. “Anissa Heights exemplifies DMCI Homes’ dedication to delivering housing solutions that adapt to the market’s evolving needs,” DMCI vice president for Project Development Dennis Yap said. The soon-to-launch Anissa Heights is a residential condominium located in P. Zamora, Pasay City, that aims to cater to a broader audience of individuals and families, offering the opportunity to own a home in a prime urban location. It provides easy access to key areas, including the Bay City, and convenient connections to Makati City through EDSA and other major road networks. Future residents will also appreciate the convenience of a transit-oriented development with the nearby MRT-3 Taft Avenue and LRT-1 EDSA stations. ANISSA Heights Its 1,390 units range from a studio type (16 sqm-26sqm) to one bedroom (27.5 sqm), ideal for rental business (short-term or long-term). This one-tower, 34-storey modern development influenced by the concept of urban living also features a wide array of amenities, such as a swimming pool, fitness gym, multi-purpose court, open sky lounge, entertainment room, play area and landscaped gardens, providing a complete resort-like experience. “This new project stands as a testament to DMCI Homes’ vision to redefine urban living, making it accessible to a diverse range of individuals and families,” Yap added. DMCI Homes is the Philippines’ first Quadruple A real estate developer known for building quality resort-inspired communities in Mega Manila, Baguio, Boracay and Davao City. It has more than 60 properties in its portfolio since its launch in 1999. The post Anissa Heights: For discerning home seekers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Piso sale!
Cebu Pacific, the Philippines’ leading carrier, is giving every Juan an early Christmas gift as it brings back its trademark Piso Sale in time for the BER months. From 7 to 10 September, CEB travelers can book their flights to select domestic destinations including Bacolod, Cebu, Iloilo, Kalibo, and Laoag, and international destinations such as Ho Chi Minh City, Macau, Seoul, Singapore and Taipei for as low as P1 one-way base fare, exclusive of surcharges and other fees. The travel period will be from 1 April to 31 August 2024, allowing passengers to book ahead and score value-for-money fares. Aside from the Piso Sale, the airline is also offering a special 27-percent discount on CEB Transfers for all its routes serving Boracay, making travel to one of the world’s best island resorts much easier and more affordable. CEB currently flies to Boracay eight times daily from Manila, twice daily from Cebu, and six times weekly from Clark. CEB pioneered its trademark Piso Sale as early as 2004. Since then, many Filipinos have been able to fulfill their travel dreams and explore various local and international destinations through the airline’s signature promo. Passengers may use their existing Travel Funds to book flights and avail themselves of add-ons. CEB also offers multiple payment options, including payment centers, credit or debit cards and e-wallets. CEB currently flies to 35 domestic and 24 international destinations, spanning across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. The post Piso sale! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Championing ‘Sampaguita’ hospitality
Megaworld Hotels & Resorts is bringing in a Filipino touch to its signature brand of hospitality. Sampaguita, the Philippines’ national flower, is Megaworld’s new brand symbol in promoting sustainable tourism, hospitality and agriculture — all part of the company’s thrust toward providing a unique and proudly Filipino guest experience. “Megaworld Hotels & Resorts resonates with the values of the country’s national flower, namely love, honor, dignity and healing. We desire for our brand to stand out and touch the heart of every Filipino, and be the brand that one can be truly proud of. It’s our goal to be the hospitality chain whose story people can relate with because our journey mirrors what every Filipino undergoes, yet comes out stronger from,” Cleofe Albiso, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts managing director said. [caption id="attachment_181097" align="aligncenter" width="650"] SAVOY Hotel Manila.[/caption] She added, Sampaguita artworks will greet guests on entrance, with the staff donning the flower’s pins painted with colors of the Philippine flag. Guests will also get a whiff of a specially-concocted sampaguita scent with notes of fresh herbs, eucalyptus and peppermint during their stay. Exclusive and new dishes infused with sampaguita essence, such as salads, soups, mains and desserts, will be offered at the different Megaworld hotel restaurants and cafes. Meanwhile, guests who wish to have a soothing, relaxing massage can opt to use sampaguita massage oils in one of the spa’s or room service. They can also choose to end their session with a cup of SaMaRra tea with flavors of sampaguita, mango and tarragon to provide healing from the inside. [caption id="attachment_181098" align="aligncenter" width="1589"] Sampaguita, the Philippines’ national flower, is Megaworld’s new brand symbol in promoting sustainable tourism, hospitality and agriculture.[/caption] Reviving the Sampaguita industry Megaworld Hotels & Resorts has partnered with Dwellbeing, a sustainable, private enterprise led by visionary women. It provides jobs to challenged sectors of society by converting used bottles to create organic home cleaning products and scents. Through this, Dwellbeing is able to continue its advocacy of feeding families through “Project Pearls” that provide employment to the deaf and mute in partnership with the Hand and Heart Organization. Raw materials will be sourced in collaboration with the local government of San Pedro, Laguna, the “Sampaguita Capital of the Philippines.” [caption id="attachment_181099" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF MEGAWORLDBELMONT Manila.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_181100" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] HOTEL Lucky Chinatown.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_181101" align="aligncenter" width="1278"] RICHMONDE Tower.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_181102" align="aligncenter" width="700"] KINGSFORD Hotel Manila.[/caption] The sampaguita is part of MEGreen, Megaworld’s company-wide sustainability program that promotes the real estate developer’s commitment to providing patches of land dedicated to the planting of sampaguita in its townships across the country. Megaworld Hotels & Resorts has launched 18 hotel properties, 12 of which are operational while five more are in the pipeline including Savoy Palawan in San Vicente and Grand Westside Hotel in Parañaque City, poised to be the biggest hotel in the Philippines once it opens. The existing operational hotels with around 7,700 hotel room keys being managed and operated by the group include Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, Savoy Hotel Newport, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, Belmont Hotel Manila, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Belmont Hotel Mactan, Kingsford Hotel Manila, Twin Lakes Hotel in Tagaytay and Hotel Lucky Chinatown in Binondo, Manila. The post Championing ‘Sampaguita’ hospitality appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Online travel fair offers deals with no expiry dates
If you can’t pass the planning stage of your dream vacation because you’re having difficulty finding a window of availability in your schedule or a common travel period with your companion/s while you’re all trying to find the best deals, then you shouldn’t miss this year’s September Online Sale put together by the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association. SOS is basically a travel fair, but done virtually for utmost convenience. As explained by HSMA vice president Amie Villena at the recent launch of SOS 2023, which she heads, all you have to do is visit their website and choose among the various deals their 87 property-members offer. You can buy one or more vouchers now and, since they don’t have expiry dates, you use any or all of them when needed. Just take note of the terms and conditions, including the blocked dates. [caption id="attachment_178857" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] STONE massage in Club Paradise Palawan.[/caption] The deals offered are in line with SOS 2023’s theme: ‘Eat. Stay. Love.’ So aside from discounted room stays, there are also weekend getaways, rejuvenation spa experiences and other recreational activities. Additionally, there are deals on restaurants, meetings and conferences packages and banquet occasions, such as weddings, birthdays and anniversaries. You can even mix and match your chosen deals, according to Villena, who’s also the director of sales and marketing at the Four Points by Sheraton Palawan Puerto Princesa. For instance, you can combine Cebu-Bohol deals, “therefore creating a unique itinerary for you and your friends or your family.” After purchasing the vouchers, you can then contact the hotel or resort when you’re ready to use them. “Domestic travelers can now start planning their vacations early as this allows them to catch seat sales, too,” said Loleth So, HSMA’s president who’s also area director of Sales and Marketing of Savoy and Belmont Hotel Manila Megaworld Hotels and Resorts. “That’s why SOS is very timely.” SOS participating hotels and resorts include: Acacia Hotel Manila, Belmont Hotel Manila, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila, Holiday Inn Express Manila, Newport City, Kingsford Hotel Manila, Marriott Hotel Manila, Okada Manila, Savoy Hotel Manila, Sheraton Manila, Solaire Resort, The Bellevue Manila, and The Heritage Hotel Manila in the Alabang/Pasay/Parañaque area; [caption id="attachment_178856" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] STAYCATION at Clark Marriott Hotel.[/caption] Alta Vista de Boracay, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay, Discovery Shores Boracay, Feliz Hotel Boracay, Hue Hotels and Resorts Boracay, Le Soleil de Boracay Hotel, Movenpick Resort & Spa Boracay, Patio Pacific Boracay, Savoy Hotel Boracay, and The Lind Boracay in Boracay; Armada Hotel Manila, Bayview Park Hotel, Dusit Thani Manila, Hotel Lucky Chinatown, I’M Hotel, New World Makati Hotel, One Pacific Place Serviced Residences, Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central, Seda Residences Makati, The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences, and Winford Resort and Casino Manila in the cities of Manila and Makati; Best Western Plus Metro Clark, Clark Marriott Hotel, Grand Sierra Pines Baguio, and Quest Plus Conference Center in Central Clark, SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western, AC Luxe Angeles City, and Swissotel Clark in North Luzon; Bai Hotel Cebu, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort, Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort, Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort, Fili Hotel Cebu - Nustar, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, MetroCentre Hotel and Convention Center, Mithi Resort and Spa, Modala Beach Resort, Quest Hotel Conference Center Cebu, The Bellevue Resort, Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino Mactan, and Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino in Cebu and Bohol; Bacau Bay Resort Coron, Club Paradise Palawan, Dusit Thani Hotels and Resorts Davao, Four Points by Sheraton Palawan Puerto Princesa, Seda Lio, Huni Lio, Lihim Resort, Miniloc Island Resort, The Oriental Leyte, and Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao in Palawan, Leyte, and Davao; Ace Hotel & Suites, B Hotel Quezon City, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Discovery Suites, F1 Hotel Manila, Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, Joy Nostalg Hotel and Suites Manila, Luxent Hotel, Novotel Suites Manila at Acqua, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Seda BGC, Seda Vertis North, and The Linden Suites in Quezon City and Ortigas; Acuatico Beach Resort, Acuaverde Beach Resort and Hotel, Anya Resort Tagaytay, Club Balai Isabel, Hotel Casiana Tagaytay, Pico Sands Hotel, Quest Hotel Tagaytay, Seda Nuvali, Summit Ridge Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel, and Twin Lakes Hotel in South Luzon. SOS 2023 is supported by the Department of Tourism, the Tourism Promotions Board, Atlantis and Isentia. It runs until 30 September. Visit www.HSMA.org.ph/SOS. The post Online travel fair offers deals with no expiry dates appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Close business, gov’t collab spur growth — Pascual
Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual is urging private entities to continuously work with the government in addressing issues crucial to economic recovery and growth. At the 3rd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Advisory Council meeting in Cebu City last Friday, Pascual said the partnership between the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation and the APEC Business Advisory Council is actually regarded by the Philippine government as a cornerstone of its vision for the country’s future. “It exemplifies the power of synergy — when government and business come together and connect, we lay the groundwork for a trade environment that is not just functional, but inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. This dynamic collaboration enables us to stay agile and responsive as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business and technology,” he said in a speech. In line with this year’s theme, “Equity, Sustainability, Opportunity,” ABAC Philippines focused on helping communities build back stronger through collective efforts. With critical goals to pursue, Secretary Pascual called for stronger partnership and collaboration among APEC Member Economies in crafting policy reforms that would spur economic growth. Areas of focus For this year’s work program, the ABAC will initially have these areas of focus: (1) Economic Integration Working Group; (2) Sustainable Growth Working Group; (3) Digital and Innovation Working Group; (4) Finance Task Force; and (5) Inclusion Task Force. Secretary Pascual has also commended the efforts of ABAC in shaping a strong, credible, and relevant World Trade Organization even as he recognized ABAC’s strong push toward the eventual realization of the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific. “The Philippines views the FTAAP as a mechanism to boost economic recovery in the region, especially for medium, small and micro-enterprises most affected by the pandemic. We thus support the immediate implementation of the FTAAP Agenda Work Plan which contributes to APEC’s sustainability and inclusion objectives,” he said. ABAC Philippines is currently focused on several initiatives including the promotion of the availability and accessibility of climate risk scenario information, the exploration of the viability of nuclear energy as a zero-carbon energy source, and other use cases under the Sustainable Growth Working Group. Further, it is working on enhancing cross-border data flow in financial services. For its part, the DTI is prioritizing (1) APEC’s Support for the Safe Passage of Maritime Crew in the Covid-19 Era, (2) Boracay Action Agenda to Globalize MSMEs, and (3) APEC Trade Repository. Aligned with this year’s ABAC meeting theme, the DTI aims to provide equal opportunities for all, promote regulations for environmental stewardship, and commit to fostering a digitally inclusive APEC community. The post Close business, gov’t collab spur growth — Pascual appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Transport hub to aid mall-goers
Megaworld Lifestyle Malls’ Lucky Chinatown’s transport hub is about to make travel easier for its customers going to and from the establishment. The mall, nestled in the heart of Binondo, has alleviated one of its customers’ concerns when it comes to its accessibility. The Filipino-Chinese community’s hub did not have a direct line to one of the bigger transport centers which is in Cubao, Quezon City. The transport hub has included additional jeepney routes going to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange via Taft Avenue and from PITX to Lucky Chinatown via Mabini. A van service has also been provided in the transport hub that goes directly to Sucat via the Coastal Road and vice versa. Lastly, TokTok riders were also included in the hub who can drop off customers at any point in Manila. Megaworld Lifestyle Malls is the retail and commercial development arm of Megaworld Corporation, one of the Philippines’ largest real estate companies. The Retail Asia Awards 2023 Marketing Initiative of the Year awardee’s mission is to make happiness and meaningful connections a lifestyle for its communities as the country’s premier developer of lifestyle destinations with exceptional designs, offerings, and experiences. There are currently 20 Megaworld Lifestyle Malls across the country. These include Eastwood Mall, Eastwood Citywalk, Lucky Chinatown, Uptown Bonifacio, Forbes Town, Venice Grand Canal, Newport Mall at Newport World Resorts, Southwoods Mall, Festive Walk Iloilo, Three Central Mall, Paseo Center, San Lorenzo Place Mall, Arcovia City, California Garden Square, The Clubhouse at Temple Drive, Greenhouse at Village Square Alabang, Alabang West Parade, Twin Lakes Shopping Village, Mactan Alfresco and Boracay Newcoast. The post Transport hub to aid mall-goers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
5-star resort hotel soon to rise in Samal
Right down south of the Philippines, by the coasts of the largest resort city, is a grand resort to be unveiled by Discovery Hospitality Corporation. Discovery Samal is the newest five-star resort hotel in Davao del Norte by the redefined Discovery Resorts brand. Discovery Hospitality Corporation is the leading name in luxury hospitality management and services in the Philippines. For more than two decades, the group has produced and managed award-winning hotels and resorts across the country. Its portfolio includes the award-winning Discovery Shores Boracay and Club Paradise Palawan, which will both be rolling out their new faces in the coming months. The upcoming Discovery Samal is a state-of-the-art resort and destination that marries modern luxury with the innate beauty of the Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte. To be built and situated in a region so rich and vibrant with culture and life, it is set to put a spotlight on and lead the island for both tourism and business. Conveniently located five minutes away from Davao City, the sprawling resort features multiple levels of accommodations, from the nine private villas, each with its own dipping pool, to the 128 hotel suites, 15 executive suites and the most spacious and Grand Signature Suite. In collaboration with the renowned and respected architect Ed Ledesma and interior designer Manny Samson, these spaces are tastefully curated and developed with interiors where classic features meet modern accents. Any type of traveler, whether families, groups of friends, honeymooners or simply to unwind in a private space, is welcome, and comfort, privacy and grandeur await. From the levels of accommodation also come the different heights of activities for adventure seekers. Discovery Samal features the biggest stretch of resort beach in the whole of Samal. It has a large infinity pool for that beach club experience where cocktails and bites are served daily. Right up to the central villa area is another pool exclusive to villa guests, and further up to the hotel section is an expansive infinity pool for everyone to enjoy. All of these offer the most stunning views of the Davao Gulf and the city. [caption id="attachment_151758" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Photographs courtesy of DISCOVERY SAMAL | DISCOVERY Samal’s infinity pool.[/caption] Discovery Samal also offers a rich gastronomic experience through its five distinguished dining outlets, each with its own unique culinary concepts to provide a diverse range of flavors to satisfy any palate. From seafood specialty dining with morning catch to vibrant al fresco lounging with Haribar, a wide variety of flavors at The Shoreline, easy bites at Garden City Cafe, and an intimate specialty restaurant soon to open, each dining outlet is guaranteed to deliver world-class cuisine and exceptional service. Another central feature of the resort is its expansive convention venues that cater to various events, from corporate gatherings to grand celebrations. Equipped with advanced facilities that can accommodate up to 1,200 people, perfect for executive gatherings and elaborate destination weddings. Backed by more than 20 years of experience in championing Filipino hospitality, DHC has turned prime locations into dream destinations with its award-winning hotels and resorts as part of its shared services on product development, experience design, branding and pre-opening requirements, the group continues to seek and cultivate new developments as it forges iconic and forward-thinking brands and remarkable experiences that build superior value and leave a profound impact on travelers. The post 5-star resort hotel soon to rise in Samal appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Committed to equity, sustainability, opportunity
As the Philippines looks forward to hosting the ABAC 3 (Asean Business Advisory Council) meeting in Cebu, the Aboitiz group acts as a key driver in advancing the shared goals of equity, sustainability and opportunity. The invaluable expertise of Aboitiz president and CEO and ABAC PH member Sabin Aboitiz contribute significantly to the Aboitiz Group’s endeavors and enhance the alignment between ABAC's vision and strategies. Sabin Aboitiz demonstrates the Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to sustainability. The focus on exploring the viability of nuclear energy via small modular reactors highlights the Group's interest in advancing clean and efficient energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change. Additionally, the integration of climate risk scenarios underscores the Group's proactive approach to understanding and addressing the potential risks and challenges posed by climate change. "At Aboitiz, we believe that businesses have a crucial role to play in promoting equity, sustainability and opportunity," Sabin Aboitiz said. "Through our collective efforts, we are committed to making a positive impact on society and fostering a better future for all." Apart from being the pioneer of renewable energy in the Philippines with 1249.17MW of total net sellable renewable energy capacity, AboitizPower, the energy arm of the Aboitiz Group, has shown commitment in promoting equity and inclusion within the company. Testament to that is the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging program, which aims to push the envelope further in creating a safe and welcoming workplace for all. The DEIB program includes the establishment of resource networks for LGBT+, women at work, and “special life” team members, which include single parents and differently-abled workers. [caption id="attachment_149059" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Aboitiz Group drives Philippine development through inclusive growth. In Cebu City, reliable power empowers the town, improving lives and supporting economic growth and trade among APEC economies. Union Bank of the Philippines, led by Aboitiz, promotes financial inclusion through digital banking nationwide.[/caption] Group wide, Aboitiz also implements several initiatives that further celebrate diversity and maintain an inclusive workplace. Among these are information sessions and people stories for Women’s Month, Pride Month and Mental Health Month. The company also boasts a balanced representation of male and female team members, fostering an environment that values gender equality and provides equal opportunities for all. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, AboitizPower and Aboitiz InfraCapital are proud member companies of the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, a nonprofit organization advocating workplace gender equality. Aboitiz understands that the overall success of the company also depends on the individual success of the team members. And by creating a culture where everyone feels valued, respected and included, the Aboitiz group makes sure that no one is left behind in the journey toward progress. The Aboitiz-led UnionBank of the Philippines plays an important role in the group’s digitalization path, driven by its dedication to “Tech-Up Pilipinas” and fostering widespread economic growth. Environmental stewardship also lies at the core of Aboitiz’s efforts, as the company actively pursues environmentally responsible practices and solutions that meet the sustainable development goals set by the United Nations. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, the holding company of the Aboitiz Group, has placed sustainability at the forefront of its business strategy. The Aboitiz Cleanergy Park, located at the tip coast of Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City, is a huge part of Aboitiz's sustainability efforts. The eight-hectare biodiversity park serves as a haven for migratory and local birds, various mangrove species, a pawikan rescue center facility and a nesting ground for critically endangered sea turtles. By partnering with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Aboitiz continues to live out its sustainability efforts by also spearheading the protection and rehabilitation of Boracay Wetland No.4. As a linear urban park, the Boracay Wetland will offer a range of recreational activities that incorporate eco-friendly tourism designs, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Apart from biodiversity conservation, Aboitiz InfraCapital, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, advocates better water resource management via corporations like Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc. and LIMA Water Corporation. Apo Agua is building one of the Philippines’ largest private bulk water supply facilities in Davao City, which harnesses sustainable water sources and provides reliable water supply to the growing population of Davao City. The project not only ensures access to clean water but also supports the local economy and promotes environmental stewardship. The post Committed to equity, sustainability, opportunity appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Swiss welcome offers sweet respite
Welcome to “The Suite Life,” which explores the world of hotels in and out of the Philippines. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious novice, I hope this column helps guide you to what hotels in the Philippines and beyond have to offer. From the bustling cityscape of Manila to the tranquil beaches of Boracay, it’s a journey through the best hotels, resorts and villas in the country and beyond to discover the most exciting and exotic hotels in the world. Pack your bags and join me on this exciting adventure as I share the hidden gems and ultimate destinations for your next getaway. Our first hotel for this month is the Swissötel Clark in Pampanga. [caption id="attachment_148661" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF Swissötel Clark | Swissötel Clark Pampanga.[/caption] Cheese and chocolate, watches and private banks — if there’s any country defined by these words, it’s Switzerland. Renowned for its punctuality and precision, the country is very well-known for its high-end horology. If you want to know how deep this characteristic runs within the country, Switzerland’s national hero, William Tell, is more famous for shooting an apple off his son’s head than his defense of Switzerland from many a tyrant. Such precision is what Tell and Switzerland are known for, and it’s this exact value that the Swiss carry into hospitality. [caption id="attachment_148662" align="aligncenter" width="525"] THE atrium.[/caption] Apart from what the history books will say about Switzerland, it’s also a place I’ve gotten to know up close. I lived in Neuchatel when my husband was taking his post-grad degree and got to imbibe in its culture and way of life, day in and out. It’s always in the details. These may seem minute or effortless, but they always add a thoughtful layer to the whole experience. Such touches abound at Swissötel Clark, and it definitely reminded me of the Swiss approach to doing things. The welcome: Located in the Clark Freeport Zone, I was surprised to find the hotel packed and buzzing. The lobby café was full, leaving no seats available, and the bright, bustling lobby was filled with people waiting — either for loved ones or colleagues — to be taken in by Swiss hospitality or having just finished a relaxing stay. The lobby was a walk away from the casino, leaving the vibrant lobby to shine all on its own. The room: Rooms and suites at Swissötel Clark welcome you with floor-to-ceiling views of the city or the mountains, flooding the room with natural light. A medley of creams, grays and browns, coupled with a king-size bed and Posturepedic mattress, high-speed Wi-Fi, cable and satellite TV channels, and USB charging stations provide a great sense of comfort for anyone looking to relax. The bathroom continues this philosophy with marble furnishings, a rain shower, and a soaking tub. Anyone looking for a more luxurious experience can upgrade to a Swiss Executive Lounge access suite with complimentary breakfast and refreshments. [caption id="attachment_148664" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PREMIUM room with king size bed.[/caption] The restaurants: I wasn’t able to try the breakfast because my alarm didn’t go off that morning, but I was able to try meals at Swissötel Clark’s two restaurants. Markt is their all-day dining buffet with incredible food. Initially conceived as an a la carte offering for diners to choose from, every station offers the full package with mains at every section, making them all stars in their own right. The hotel also has a permanent place on the menu for classic Swiss dishes like älplermagronen (Swiss macaroni and cheese with applesauce) and Zurich-style veal with mushrooms. [caption id="attachment_148663" align="aligncenter" width="525"] NASI, a contemporary restaurant that specializes in Filipino cuisine.[/caption] Ristorante Di Verona, on the other hand, is easily one of the best places to try modern and authentic Italian cuisine without leaving the country. With large, luxurious windows and al fresco seating, their spacious halls are filled with soothing Italian music and the noise of happy diners. They offer a fine selection of aperitifs, over 300 wines sourced from various regions of Europe, digestivos, and other Italian favorites, as well as their famous balsamico de Modena 25 anni 550, delightfully paired with Italian bread. Unique touches to the hotel: Details like the collar brooch and the shoe buckle of the doorman did not go unnoticed. The doorman is the first to greet visitors and serve as the best representation of the Swiss tradition of service. Their gear resembles the Appenzell costume designed by Ida Gout and the delicate brooch designed by goldsmith Sebastian Fassler shows a lot of care and thought for the kind of service they want to bring. The hotel itself also makes use of Appenzell design, the town famous for its mountain range. One must also have the Swissötel traditional cake with its notable ingredient of ground hazelnuts. Experiential for all senses that pull focus on their attention to what matters. The Spa: Swissötel Clark will launch their spa and Vitality suites soon. Every one of their six private suites will have its own gym equipment for guests to enjoy their fitness regimens in private. Swiss mindfulness podcasts, the Vitality kit, wellness treatments, and menus round out the entire experience for a great session. Outside, on the other hand, lets guests exercise with fresh air on bike and jogging paths as part of the hotel’s promotion of a healthy environment. I’m hearing that one of the managers hails from a 5-star hotel in Mandaluyong with a very good spa, who is also a professional therapist with a good grasp of wellness and treatments — a lot of which they can do themselves, so consider my expectations high. [caption id="attachment_148665" align="aligncenter" width="525"] VITALITY suite[/caption] Great food, comfortable rooms and fresh air for all — they did not miss a beat when it came to bringing Swiss hospitality to the country, even down to the finest details. Taking a trip up north to Pampanga is a great way to retreat from the city for a bit, made even better if you’re staying at Swissötel Clark. The post Swiss welcome offers sweet respite appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Manila Water pushes expansion program
Manila Water Company Inc., led by tycoon Enrique K. Razon Jr., will expand the local and international footprint of its business and services through partnerships and acquisitions. In an interview with reporters on Thursday, Manila Water chief administrative officer and head for international business Roberto Jose Locsin reiterated that the company “is on the right track” on its planned expansions. “There is a deliberate approach for expansion both domestically and abroad. In the Philippines, we would like to focus on highly-dense populations or the secondary and tertiary cities,” Locsin said. “We have conversations with LGUs (local government units) all across the country. I can’t mention anything specific because a lot of this is still under discussion,” he said. Locsin noted that Manila Water is particularly interested in pouring money into local water districts large enough to also promise good investment returns. The company pursues expansions through its subsidiary Manila Water Philippine Ventures, which has water services units serving Laguna, Boracay Island, Clark, Cebu, Zamboanga City and Tagum City. As for international expansion, Locsin said Manila Water aims to have a presence in areas where Razon’s International Container Services Inc. ports are located. Overseas foray next goal Overseas, Manila Water will focus on concession-based businesses under build-operate-own, build-operate-transfer, or public-private partnership bulk water supply schemes. “We have a very strong capability in industrial through our estate water business in the Philippines. Replicating that and consolidating that allows us to talk to a lot of people,” Locsin added. Manila Water is the East Zone concessionaire that provides water distribution and sewerage services in the East Zone which spans the cities of Makati, Mandaluyong, Pasig, Pateros, San Juan, Taguig, Marikina, most parts of Quezon City, portions of Manila; as well as the towns of Angono, Antipolo, Baras, Binangonan, Cainta, Cardona, Jala-Jala, Morong, Pililia, Rodriguez, San Mateo, Tanay, Taytay, and Teresa in Rizal province. The post Manila Water pushes expansion program appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Belmont Hotel Mactan: A home away from home
For many, a hotel is synonymous to comfort and relaxation, offering people luxurious amenities for a memorable and hassle-free stay. For Belmont Hotel Mactan, these experiences are taken to the next level as it extends incomparable services and first-rate amenities that not only embody class and elegance but also add convenience into the total hotel experience. Belmont Hotel Mactan in Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Cebu, is the third hotel to open under Megaworld Hotels and Resorts’ homegrown hotel chain in the country. Under its business and leisure or “bleisure” label, Belmont Hotel Mactan is also the second hotel (after Savoy Hotel) that sits on the 30-hectare The Mactan Newtown township. Yes, Megaworld’s townships have always been known as a city within a city that amazingly brings everything together — upscale condominiums, lifestyle malls, commercial establishments, office towers, banks, learning institutions and more — in one mixed-used development. That’s why Belmont Hotel Mactan guests in The Mactan Newtown, particularly the business travelers, are assured of this rare convenience because almost everything they need while staying at the hotel is within their reach. “Guests surely find it efficient to stay within the heart of a 30-hectare lifestyle and business hub of the township,” says Johnson Del Valle, Belmont Hotel Mactan general manager. [caption id="attachment_145632" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH BY VANGIE BAGA-REYES | JOHNSON del Valle (left) Belmont Hotel Mactan general manager, and Harold Geronimo, Megaworld’s vice president for public relations and media affairs.[/caption] Home away from home The 20-story hotel is poised as a business travelers’ home away from home while staying in the beguiling island of Mactan. Located along Newtown Boulevard and just beside Savoy Hotel Mactan, Belmont Hotel Mactan features 550 guestrooms and suites with three room categories, namely, Junior Suite (50 sqm), Deluxe Premium (36 sqm) and Superior (26 sqm). It also has seven rooms dedicated for guests with special needs. [caption id="attachment_145629" align="aligncenter" width="525"] DELUXE Premier[/caption] All rooms are fully equipped with essential amenities, such as an in-room electronic safety box, wall-mounted TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, a minibar and wireless Internet connection. [caption id="attachment_145630" align="aligncenter" width="525"] BELMONT Café, the hotel’s all-day dining outlet offering Asian and Mediterranean dishes.[/caption] Interestingly, most units feature expansive views of the Magellan Bay and the Hilutungan Channel, a deep-water channel that separates Mactan Island from Olango Island. With regards to its location, guests arriving via Cebu International Airport will only take at least 15 minutes to reach the hotel. Del Valle says Belmont provides a logical choice for guests with a business mindset. “Since we opened, we host mainly guests who visit the area for business,” he shares. “The hotel features facilities built specifically for MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions), team-building, networking and corporate celebrations across our four available function rooms that can accommodate a maximum of capacity 120 guests down to 30 guests.” These function spaces are equipped with smart-control projectors and sound systems. “The Mactan Island is populated by hotels and resorts focusing heavily on leisure and wellness, so we are very excited to bring a new kind of hospitality experience through Belmont Hotel Mactan,” says Cleofe Albiso, managing director of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts. “Just like the first two Belmont Hotel properties in Newport City in Pasay and Boracay Newcoast in Aklan, Belmont Hotel Mactan will host guests who are in the area for both business and leisure.” She adds: “They can expect the usual topnotch amenities that enable rest and relaxation, but because we want to address the need for Mactan to be MICE-ready we have also built here facilities for business events. Coupled with the Megaworld brand of hospitality, we are very proud to say this kind of experience is something that cannot be found anywhere else on this side of Cebu.” Rich history Stepping inside the lobby, Belmont Hotel becomes a tribute to Cebu’s festive culture, landmarks, marine life, rich history as showcased through numerous art installations. For instance, colorful headdresses used in Cebu’s Sinulog are displayed in the walls of its all-day dining outlet, Belmont Café; Cebu’s finest handcrafted guitars in different sizes and colors are mounted in the chic hangout spot, Zabana Bar; and the room’s wall art paper features popular things Cebu is known for, from guitars to its delicacies, such as otap and puso (rice wrapped and boiled in woven coconut leaves). To relax and unwind, the central amenity area on the third floor has the swimming pool and kiddie pool, female and male wet and dry sauna, outdoor lounge with elevated deck, fitness center and viewing deck where guests can marvel at the beauty of the nearby sea and the rest of the township and the Mactan Island. In terms of food outlets, guests can also savor a variety of cuisines and delicacies from the hotel’s three food and beverage outlets. Belmont Café offers a wide variety of Asian and Mediterranean dishes, as well as other local delicacies. Just a few steps away from Belmont Café is the Zabana Bar, where guests can enjoy a selection of cocktails and refreshing beverages. [caption id="attachment_145635" align="aligncenter" width="525"] FITNESS center.[/caption] Over on the third floor is the Float Pool Bar, where guests can sample a variety of snacks and beverages as they lounge and take a refreshing plunge at the swimming pool. Belmont Hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the Mactan Newtown Beach, and about five-minute walk away from the Mactan Alfresco, a hawker-type dining destination. “While in the area, don’t forget to visit the notable tourist sites much like the Mactan Shrine where the iconic 20-meter statue of Lapu-Lapu stands or the Sto. Nino de Cebu Mactan Parish Church which is noted to be shaped like the Magellan’s hat,” shares Del Valle. Largest hotel operator With the opening of Belmont Hotel, alongside Savoy Hotel, Megaworld Hotels and Resorts now has a combined room keys of 1,100, the largest number of room keys in the entire Mactan Island. At the same time, it makes Megaworld the largest developer and operator in the entire Cebu province today. “Belmont means Beautiful Mountain in French,” says Harold Geronimo, Megaworld’s vice president for public relations and media affairs. “It was a name created by our chairman Dr. Andrew L. Tan when we launched the first Belmont Hotel in Newport City. He fell in love with the name. He just wanted to create a new brand for Megaworld Hotels and Resorts because the first brand that we introduced was Richmonde Hotel. The second brand was Belmont.” The first Belmont Hotel was opened in 2015 at Newport City in Pasay City. It was followed by Belmont Hotel Boracay. Soon, the fourth Belmont Hotel will open in Iloilo City. Geronimo adds that Belmont Hotel will complement the Savoy Hotel inside the township because the vision of Megaworld is to be able to expand its portfolio of hotels in Mactan Island. They want to cater to more business and leisure travelers. “When we open Savoy Hotel, we notice there has been a high demand for those types of travelers who want to do business meetings here, as well as families and tourists who are on vacation in Mactan Island. We want to cater to both that’s why we are adding more rooms.” Belmont Hotel is still in the process of coordinating with the Department of Tourism for the hotel-star rating. The post Belmont Hotel Mactan: A home away from home appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Visayan growth
This piece is being written as I traverse the Visayan region which is carrying greater prospects for future economic growth. For the past months, I’ve written on Mindanao and Central Luzon and how these regions have experienced rapid development thanks to the nationally elected political leaders who hail from their provinces, Vice President Sara Duterte and the former president now Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, respectively. At times neglected in the discussions is the Visayas region. This time around, I was able to spend time in Iloilo and Cebu – both highly urbanized regional growth areas outside of Metro Manila. Iloilo is a wonderful city as it exists harmoniously with its bodies of water. Esplanades and walkways allow everyone to enjoy the river, which serves as a leisure area, transportation hub, and entry for goods, which is quite uncommon in the Philippines. Usually, Philippine rivers are either for people or for goods, not both, since our rivers are easily polluted. But in Iloilo, as well as neighboring Guimaras, their rivers bring life to the province. The only eyesore in Iloilo would be the “sinking” Ungka flyover located in Pavia. This project cost the government P680 million but it was closed shortly after it opened because motorists experienced a “wavy” sensation while driving on it. It was later learned that some of its pillars were sinking at the rate of two centimeters per day. A study showed it would take an estimated P250 million to repair the flyover and make it safely usable to the public. One reason to be excited about Iloilo should be the proposed revival of the Panay Railway, which was mentioned by President Bongbong Marcos Jr. in his SoNA last year and included in the Infrastructure Flagship Projects approved by NEDA. On this trip, I learned that Panay used to have a working railway that connected Iloilo City to Roxas City, and that plans for its revival would further connect Iloilo to Caticlan thus, the resort island of Boracay. Imagine having tourists land in Boracay, spend a few days there, then take a train to Iloilo where they would further be immersed in Philippine culture in one of the oldest cities of the country. Cebu is an established gem of a city, with traffic nearing Manila levels. Walking around Cebu feels like being in Alabang or BGC. One thing missing in Cebu is tollways to connect its cities and municipalities. This may change soon with the inclusion of the Metro Cebu Expressway in the NEDA-approved IFPs. The 72-kilometer project, once completed, will connect Naga City to Danao City, cutting travel time from three hours to 50 minutes. The project was started years ago, but only a reported five kilometers of it have been finished so far due to lack of funding. At this rate of budget allocation, it will take 20 years to finish it. Now, the project will continue and be finished sooner via a PPP arrangement after Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. — the same company that built the iconic Cebu Cordova Link Expressway bridge — has expressed interest in it. Whenever I visit Cebu, it seems that a major development had taken place. This time was no different. Even in Iloilo, there are new buildings erected almost monthly. One notable building is the 14-story Stronghold Insurance Building in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, an area surrounded by Ayala, SM, Vista Land, and Megaworld developments. As this Administration has heralded, this time the purpose is to “Build, Better, More” for the benefit of all Filipinos nationwide. For comments, email him at darren.dejesus@gmail.com. The post Visayan growth appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Wolfgang s Steakhouse opens 4th Philippine branch, to open soon in Araneta City, Boracay
Premier United States-based steakhouse Wolfgang's Steakhouse has opened its fourth branch in the Philippines with two new ones planned by 2024......»»
Wolfgang Steakhouse Grill opens city of dreams branch, expands menu
The name alone sounds expensive and intimidating, but the owners of Wolfgang Steakhouse Grill swear it’s because they serve only the finest food. Known for its signature USDA prime dry-aged steak, the chain has opened a fourth restaurant in the Philippines with more grilled items on offer — the better to encourage people who love first-rate food and a relaxed atmosphere The new Wolfgang Steakhouse Grill at the City of Dreams Manila in Parañaque City had a grand launch Tuesday night attended by the founder himself, Wolfgang Zwiener, accompanied by wife Elena and son Peter, now the president of the world-renowned Wolfgang’s Steakhouse. The event was also graced by its local managing partners led by Raymund Magdaluyo (Red Crab Group of Restaurants) and Leina Bolinas (Excello Restaurant Management Group). The resto’s other outlets are in Resorts World Manila in Pasay City, Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City and The Podium in Mandaluyong City. This is also the 32nd location of Wolfgang Steakhouse worldwide. What makes this new location extra special is that this is the only Wolfgang Steakhouse with grilled offerings. New grilled dishes have been added to the menu for diners to order from brunch to late night, such as Grilled Barbecue Short Ribs, Dry-Aged Brisket Pastrami, Beef Tartar and Grilled Lemon Caper Chicken. “Wolfgang Steakhouse is a classic steakhouse that serves the finest beef,” said Peter in his brief speech. “Here at the Grill, we are able to introduce more dishes using the different parts of the cow and the various ways of preparing it. This gives us an opportunity to offer those who want to eat other interesting and flavorful dishes, such as Lomo Saltado (a Peruvian dish) and chicken dishes. But, the good thing is, we still offer the regular full menu of Wolfgang Steakhouse.” Peter reflected on how the restaurant has come a long way from its first outlet in Manila in 2016. “Thanks to our fabulous partners like Raymund Magdaluyo and Leina Bolinas and their team,” Peter said. “We were very fortunate. I still remember the day I met Raymund in Japan after he called me to say he had a fabulous dinner at Wolfgang on Christmas Eve. He told me a beautiful story about his family and how they had a great dinner there. He told me he wanted to have Wolfgang Steakhouse in the Philippines. And it came to fruition many years later.” “After the pandemic, we are coming out stronger and we want to grow more rapidly in the Philippines and offer our steaks to everyone,” he added. Elegant, contemporary Boasting an intimate and cozy atmosphere with dark wooden interiors and an old-world charm, the 350-square-meter steakhouse features an intimate whisky lounge and impressive wine cellar. Popular among its steaks are the short loin, porterhouse and rib-eye. “Grill means basically direct fire. We offer more grilled items,” said Magdaluyo, adding that, “for us, the actual concept of the grill is that this place is a bit casual. Upscale but casual. Meaning, you can come as you are. You can wear shorts or beach wear and that’s perfectly fine.” Magdaluyo also shared that another Wolfgang Steakhouse Grill, with a sports grill theme, is opening at the Araneta Coliseum by October. “It’s a 40-seater place to serve the Quezon City market,” he said. Turn to page C18 Meanwhile, Wolfgang Steakhouse in Boracay will open in February 2024 at Megaworld’s Belmont Hotel, according to Magdaluyo. The steakhouse, overlooking the beach, can accommodate about 50 diners. [caption id="attachment_133452" align="aligncenter" width="1707"] photograph courtesy of wolfgang steakhouse grillBURRATA Salad.[/caption] Menu The Grill’s new offerings include the fall-off-the-bone Grilled Baby Back Ribs, Lomo Saltado (marinated strips of sirloin with onions and tomatoes) and Grilled Barbecue Short Ribs. Salad options have also been updated with Classic Wedge Salad, Burrata Salad and Arugula Salad. The USDA Prime Dry-Aged Porterhouse Steak remains a meat lover’s dream: thick, tender, juicy and formidable right down to the very last bite. The resto’s all-time favorites include Creamed Spinach, Steak Fries, Burger Sliders, Filet Mignon, Shrimp and Lobster Cocktails and Fresh Oysters on the Half Shell, while among the must-try desserts are the New York-Style Cheesecake, Apple Strudel, Key Lime Pie and Hot Fudge Sundae. Wolfgang Steakhouse Grill is on the upper ground floor of City of Dreams Manila, Paranaque City, It is open daily, 11 am-12 mn. Visit www.wolfgangssteakhouse.ph. Meanwhile, Wolfgang Steakhouse in Boracay will open in February 2024 at Megaworld’s Belmont Hotel, according to Magdaluyo. The steakhouse, overlooking the beach, can accommodate about 50 diners. The post Wolfgang Steakhouse Grill opens city of dreams branch, expands menu appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Leave your devices to Power Mac
Customers can now enjoy the convenience of dropping off their Apple devices that need premium repair or maintenance service at select Power Mac Center or The Loop stores with a minimal shipping fee. Apart from accessibility, customers can trust that their precious devices are in good hands at Mobile Care Service Center—PMC’s Apple Authorized Service Provider — which will be handling all the necessary repair services with its Certified Engineers and exclusive access to genuine parts. The retail drop-off service is available for all Apple users in the Philippines who bought devices from Power Mac Center and other stores, whether in or out of warranty. Mobile Care Service Centers accept iPhone 7 series or later, MacBook Air early 2015 model or later, MacBook Pro 2017 model or later, and iMac 2017 model or later. “By maximizing the nationwide presence of our retail stores, we help more customers reach us faster when they find themselves in need of repair or maintenance services. This is a testament to Power Mac Center’s commitment as the go-to shop for all things Apple in the Philippines. We take pride in being able to provide premium and comprehensive services to all loyal Apple fans,” said Jim Laguio, PMC director for service. Power Mac Center drop-off locations include Luzon branches namely Robinsons Ilocos Norte, SM City Tuguegarao, Robinsons Tuguegarao, Robinsons La Union, SM City Urdaneta Central, SM City Pampanga, Harbor Point, Vista Mall Bataan, SM City Fairview, SM City San Lazaro, SM City Sta. Rosa, SM City San Pablo, SM City Bacoor, SM City Dasmariñas, Fora Mall, SM City Batangas, SM City Lipa, SM City Lucena, SM City Daet, SM City Legazpi, SM City Sorsogon, and SM City Puerto Princesa; SM City Roxas in the Visayas; and Robinsons Iligan in Mindanao. Meanwhile, The Loop drop-off locations are Xentro Mall Vigan, SM City Baguio, SM Center Dagupan, and SM City Calamba for Luzon branches; D’Mall Boracay in the Visayas; and SM City General Santos in Mindanao. New and upcoming stores may also be added in this list in the future. The post Leave your devices to Power Mac appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pampanga’s Best Western Plus redesigns for MICE tourism
The hotel industry shared the biggest burden from the lockdowns brought on by the two-year pandemic. This, however, forced hotel owners to redesign their facilities to cater to customers besides tourists. To appeal to more businesspeople, the four-star Best Western Plus hotel in Pampanga is upgrading into a lifestyle center and food destination. “The opening of the new wing of the Best Western Plus hotel came at the right time. We were building it and deciding almost every day as the pandemic unfolded. We had to decide, follow through and look past the pandemic,” Jack Uy, chairman and chief executive officer of Savers Group Holdings, Inc. told the Daily Tribune. Uy said the hotel is still being renovated to add retail shops after welcoming its first guests in March at the new wing with 186 rooms along MacArthur Highway, Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga. [caption id="attachment_131550" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Presidential Suite.[/caption] He said the hotel has expanded through its lifestyle center, which occupies an entire building floor and features modern, luxurious and globally branded appliances and furniture for home, office and industrial. These cater to customer segments consisting of businesspeople and those in the middle to upper socioeconomic classes with more sophisticated tastes and combine business and leisure. “We call this our lifestyle center. People now shop because they build a lifestyle more than fulfilling a need. So, they’re not looking for just one or two items but everything that matches their lifestyles, from the appliance to the furniture,” Uy said. [caption id="attachment_131551" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Conference Room.[/caption] Uy said most of their guests, or 70 percent, are corporate executives and staff from local and multinational firms who gather for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibits tourism. “Unlike other provinces, Pampanga does not have a lot of natural attractions like the beaches in Boracay or Palawan. That’s why over half of our visitors check in because of company meetings, events and team-building activities. It helps that we’re located near the airport and Clark Freeport Zone, an economic zone.” Property consultancy Colliers Philippines said Pampanga housed 36 percent of all offices in the country’s provinces. Information technology and business process outsourcing firms expanded outside Metro Manila in the first quarter of this year. This industry is expected to grow further by eight percent to 10 percent each year, as the Philippines has emerged as the world’s top IT-BPO destination, according to US-based Nexford University. [caption id="attachment_131552" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Lobby.[/caption] Last year, Colliers reported the Philippine Economic Zone Authority identified 42 ecozones in Central Luzon, including Pampanga, as the location for biotech centers, defense industrial complexes, halal and food production hubs, and jewelry parks, among others. The move is part of the government’s Philippine Development Plan 2023 to 2028. The hotel also features several restaurants serving international cuisines: Mexican at Cactus Jack Smokehouse, Japanese at Namari, and Hong Kong at Legend. “Most people also visit Pampanga as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines. But we want our local and foreign guests to have as diverse experiences as possible,” Uy said. The post Pampanga’s Best Western Plus redesigns for MICE tourism appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sunken optic cable network rolling out
Fibernet Construkt Corp. along with Internet service provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc., have submitted to the local government an unsolicited proposal to build a fully underground fiber optic cable network for Cebu City along the city’s South Road Properties’ main road. FKC is in the business of building and maintaining broadband infrastructure facilities for telecommunication operators and internet service providers In their meeting with Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, Converge chief executive officer and co-founder Dennis Anthony Uy, said he “could begin realizing Rama’s “dream of a city like Singapore for Cebu by placing all the lines of telecommunication companies (telcos) underground starting with those in the city’s main thoroughfares.” “He (Rama) asked me for my opinion. I told him it is too costly to put an underground cabling network for the whole of Cebu. It’s too expensive. Overhead expenses for underground cabling for power, for instance, is 10 to 15 times more. If you pass the costs on to consumers, they will raise a howl. So, I told him to start with telecommunications because that’s where you see a lot of ‘spaghetti wires.’ I think 50 percent of what you see are telecom wires which are no longer active,” said Uy in a media briefing during Converge’s official launch on Boracay Island recently. Bad experience “What happened during typhoon ‘Odette’ was a bad experience for Cebuanos. Utility posts were hit, and it took two months to put back on power,” he said. Thus, Uy is convinced that Cebu City badly needs to move all electricity and communication lines underground as part of its disaster resiliency strategy to prevent massive blackouts and connectivity losses during calamities like typhoons. For his part, FKC chief executive officer Jinho Kwon said FKC “intends to service the needs of the major telecommunications company and other service providers in Cebu City South Road Properties to enable them to provide full Telecommunication Broadband and Cable TV connectivity including Internet connectivity and other services in the said properties.” Unsolicited proposal Both Uy and Kwon personally went to Cebu City to present their unsolicited proposal to Rama. Kwon said the proposal is meant “ to support the Cebu City government’s direction to develop a Smart City with fully equipped and disaster resilient telecommunication network where information and communication technologies are utilized to increase operational efficiency and improve both quality of services and citizen welfare.” FKC is in the business of building and maintaining broadband infrastructure facilities for telecommunication operators and Internet providers. Moving power and telecommunication lines underground bolsters economic growth and ensures business continuity even during calamities, Uy and Kwon stressed. The post Sunken optic cable network rolling out appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Making the most of Philippine Summer
Despite perennially reeling from the scorching heat, Filipinos nevertheless look forward to summer to take a break from the rigors of daily life and enjoy the sun, sand and sea. The months of March to May is always a time to enjoy the outdoors, as the Philippines, being a tropical country, is replete with summer destinations that local and foreign tourists go gaga about. Topping these getaway spots, hands down is the beach. With over 7,000 islands, the country boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Among the most popular are Boracay, Palawan and Siargao — all known for their crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands and stunning sunsets. [caption id="attachment_129829" align="aligncenter" width="525"] A boy ignoring warnings not to swim in polluted Manila Bay dives in to beat the summer heat as boats prepare for the fist annual regatta, 26 May 2002, aimed at increasing public awareness on the environment. The Philippine government has been taking steps to clean-up the historic bay, famed for its breath-taking sunsets, which has become a depository for trash and industrial waste in recent years. AFP PHOTO/Joel NITO (Photo by JOEL NITO / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_129827" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Tourists relax along a beach in Boracay island in Malay town, Aklan province, central Philippines on April 7, 2018. - The Philippine tourism industry scrambled on April 6 to manage the fallout from the temporary shutdown of its world-famous Boracay island, which threw into chaos trips planned by hundreds of thousands of tourists. (Photo by AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_129828" align="aligncenter" width="525"] A surfer takes advantage of the conditions at Big Wave Bay on the southern side of Hong Kong island 05 July 2001 as tyhoon 'Utor' heads nearer to the territory after lashing southern Taiwan and the Philippines. 'Utor' one of the biggest typhoons to hit the South China Sea in thirty years is expected to hit landfall in southern China tommorrow morning coming close to Hong Kong at the same time.AFP PHOTO/Peter PARKS (Photo by PETER PARKS / AFP)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_129830" align="aligncenter" width="525"] A tourist goes airborne while kite boarding in the waters of Boracay island on November 9, 2008. The white sand beach resort island is in center of controversy as investors and property owners accused the government of land grabbing following the 2006 proclamation by the Philippine government that the entire island belongs to the state. Boracay island located in central Philippines draws half a million tourists each year to its spectacular beaches, more than one sixth of tourist visitors to the country. AFP PHOTO/JAY DIRECTO (Photo by JAY DIRECTO / AFP)[/caption] Aside from the beach, summertime is a chance to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and island hopping. Tourists take advantage of the summer months to explore the natural beauty of the country. [caption id="attachment_129826" align="aligncenter" width="525"] This picture taken on October 12, 2019 shows members of Myanmar's national surfing team resting during a competition on Ngwe Saung beach in Irrawaddy division, ahead of the upcoming Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in the Philippines. - Competitive surfing was barely known in Myanmar a few years ago but a group of super-stoked dudes and dudettes from a local beach town are riding a wave of enthusiasm to the Southeast Asian Games for the first time ever. (Photo by Ye Aung THU / AFP)[/caption] Among the more popular hiking spots are Mt. Pulag, Mt. Batulao and Mt Pinatubo which all offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Of course, we should not forget that summer in the Philippines is also a time for festivities. One of the most celebrated festivals during this season is the Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, Quezon. The festival is held every May in honor of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. During the event, the town is decorated with colorful kiping (rice wafers) and other agricultural products. [caption id="attachment_129831" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Children on a float made of native materials and decorated with vegetables and rice stalks parade on the streets for a contest ahead of the annual "Pahiyas" harvest festival in the town of Lucban, in Quezon province, south of Manila, 14 May 2005. During the festival, residents use native plants, vegetable products and rice paper to decorate their floats, homes and vehicles in imaginative ways. AFP PHOTO/JAY DIRECTO (Photo by JAY DIRECTO / AFP)[/caption] Another popular festival during this time is the Kadayawan Festival in Davao City. The festival is held every August and is a celebration of the city’s bountiful harvest. It is a colorful event that features street dancing, music and a parade of flowers. Whatever one fancies to beat the summer heat, there is always something to look forward to hereabouts. Whether one wants to relax, go on an adventure or celebrate, one can find it here in a paradise even tourists call paradise. The post Making the most of Philippine Summer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Desalination needs private funding — group
Households in highly urbanized provinces can have more potable water from seawater through desalination only if the private sector is willing to subsidize the expensive project, an executive of Tubig Pilipinas said. “As of today, due to the high cost of desalination, it’s more feasible in areas, such as Boracay and Cebu where there are high commercial or industrial establishments that can subsidize the cost for the residential consumers,” Tubig Pilipinas president Ryan Yapkianwee said last Friday in an email to the Daily Tribune. It takes $1 million or about P55 million to set up a desalination plant to process 1,000 cubic meters of seawater each day, excluding water distribution equipment. Capital intensive To serve 300,000 people, a water provider must shell out $100 million for a larger desalination plant. Yapkianwee said Tubig Pilipinas supports the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to explore and adopt water technologies from the Middle Eastern countries to mitigate the impacts of climate change including longer drought. Yapkianwee added the government and the private sector must find ways to reduce the costs of desalinated water. “Despite the costly desalination, we are a believer that the most expensive water is having no water.” Saudi Arabia, for example, sources half of its need for potable water from desalinating the nearby Red Sea. A 2019 report by The New York Times says North Africa and many other countries in the Middle East were building more desalination plants as supplies from renewable water sources have declined. According to the United Nations, a person needs 350 gallons per day to live. In the Philippines, however, more than half, or 57 million out of 110 Filipinos lack access to potable water. In the meantime, Yapkianwee said Tubig Pilipinas are educating communities in rural areas to plant more trees to protect watersheds that store and direct the flow of water. “Trees prevent flooding by absorbing the water. On the other hand, it ensures you have sources of water in times of drought as the absorbed water goes to the rivers.” Yapkianwee shared that his water distributor and treatment company conducts regular tree planting in Mabatangen Watershed and Mount Dalara in Coron, Palawan as one of the 14 provinces Tubig Pilipinas will start serving this year. The others are Bacolod and Cadiz in Negros Occidental; Echahue, Isabela; San Jose City, Nueva Ecija; Sual, Labrador and Malasiqui in Pangasinan; Trece Martires, Cavite; Nabua, Camarines Sur; Mandaue, Cebu; Iloilo City; and Calbayog and Catbalogan in Samar. The post Desalination needs private funding — group appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Anda, Bohol resort owners want town’s environmental fee policy scratched
TAGBILARAN CITY — Resort owners in Anda, Bohol have opposed the implementation of a P30 environmental fee for every person entering the municipality known for its pristine white sand beaches. Resort owners Anastacio Daniel Jr. of Anda de Boracay, Edil Tan of Anda Global 1 & 2, and Filomina White of Bitoon White Beach asked Anda Mayor Angelina […] The post Anda, Bohol resort owners want town’s environmental fee policy scratched appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»