BusinessWeek National

23/01/2025

BusinessWeek National Feature (January 23, 2025)

22/01/2025

22/01/2025

CHEF CHUNG TIN EDDY WONG HEAD CHEF, MOTT 32 NUSTAR RESORT CEBU

Chung Tin Eddy Wong is a highly accomplished culinary professional with 40 years of expertise in creating exceptional dishes and managing kitchen operations. An alumnus of Ng Wah College, Chef Eddy has built a stellar reputation for his mastery in a variety of food cuisines, seamlessly blending technique and creativity to meet diverse culinary preferences.

From 2008 to 2023, he served as the Executive Sous Chef at New Feng Huang Seafood Restaurant, where he created innovative seafood menus that captivated diners while reflecting the restaurant's unique concept and market trends. He also developed new dishes inspired by seasonal ingredients and oversaw daily kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and taste.

Prior to this, Chef Eddy held the position of Executive Chinese Chef at Legenda Hotel and Casino in Subic Bay Freeport Zone from 1995 to 2008. During his tenure, he expertly managed kitchen operations, trained and supervised a diverse culinary team, and collaborated on continuously improving menu offerings to deliver exceptional dining experiences. Before that, as a Sous Chef at Subic Bay Resort and Casino from 1993 to 1994, he supported the Executive Chef in overseeing all aspects of the kitchen, including food preparation, cooking, and plating. He also contributed to menu planning and staff training, ensuring smooth workflows and timely service.

Earlier in his career, as a Second Cook at Regal Airport Hotel in Kowloon City from 1991 to 1993, Chef Eddy gained hands-on experience in food preparation and station management while supporting the efficient ex*****on of service.

Chef Eddy’s culinary expertise is marked by his ability to prepare a wide range of cuisines with a focus on quality, flavor, and presentation. He is highly proficient in developing innovative recipes and menus that cater to diverse culinary preferences while staying abreast of emerging trends. His experience in menu development includes incorporating seasonal ingredients, managing food costs, ensuring portion control, and optimizing inventory to maintain efficiency.

Throughout his illustrious career, Chung Tin Eddy Wong has remained dedicated to culinary excellence, inspiring his teams and delighting his patrons with a harmonious blend of tradition and modern innovation.

22/01/2025

BusinessWeek National Feature (January 22, 2025)

22/01/2025

BusinessWeek National Feature (January 22, 2025)

22/01/2025

TASTE CEBU 2025: A CULINARY JOURNEY THROUGH TIME AND BEYOND

Cebu, Philippines - Taste Cebu 2025 recently concluded a celebration of Cebu’s rich heritage and vibrant future in one unforgettable evening. A signature event by NUSTAR Resort Cebu, this year’s event was set in January in time for the Sinulog festivities, and was a unique collaboration between local artisan chefs, top culinary students from various schools and NUSTAR chefs in a stellar production blending tradition with innovation in Cebuano cuisine.

A Journey Through Cebu's Traditional Flavors

Over a thousand guests were treated to a feast set amid a backdrop depicting Cebu’s culinary history. The Grand Ballroom opened to a section evoking nostalgic Filipino design, with the ceiling swathed in Fili’s trademark solihiya pattern over a setting where guests revisited classic Cebuano dishes. All crafted with local ingredients, local artisan chefs presented heirloom dishes as Tuslob Buwa, Tinubaang Manok, Pochero, Empanada, Pungko-Pungko, and desserts such as Bingka sa Mandaue and Budbud Kabog.

This year’s event featured a live puso weaving installation and a 'Tuba Wall,' offering hands-on experiences. Guests learned to weave a traditional Cebuano rice pouch and explored creative cocktail variations made from tuba, a beloved local drink.

Modern Twists on Classic Favorites: NU Cebu's Culinary Students Shine

In partnership with various schools and institutions, top students
from prominent culinary schools in Cebu showcased modern interpretations of classic Cebuano dishes. Students from the University of San Jose – Recoletos presented Foam of Tinunuang Nangka with the Essence of Tinap-ang Isda and Fish Chicharon Nachos with Takyong Sisig, highlighting the unique Cebu snail. University of Cebu students offered Bam-I Vietnamese Spring Roll and Balbacua Xiao Long Bao. The University of Southern Philippines Foundation impressed with Shredded Lechon Paksiw and Ginabot Breaded Jalapeño Poppers. Students from the University of San Carlos introduced Nipa Delight and Kalabasang Torone, while the American International Culinary and Hospitality Institute showcased Masi with Mango-Strawberry Peanut Filling and Mango and Tablea Pie.

NUSTAR Chefs: Blending Heritage with Innovation

The 'Old Meets NU Cebu' tasting zone was led by NUSTAR’s Executive Chef Martin Rebolledo, alongside his team of talented chefs including Chef Rolando Macatangay, Chef Randell Mark Jugalbot, Chef Lloyd Rommel Cabalhin, Chef Angelo Belloso, Chef Genaro Moleño, Chef Alvin Antonio, and Chef Sherwin Cavada. Together, they presented a progressive take on well-loved Cebuano fare using modern culinary techniques for dishes like Beef & Reef Bulalo, Danggit Biscuit, and Dinuguan Tortas. A highlight of the evening was the Lechon Five Ways presentation, a Fili Café staple, featuring innovative renditions on Cebu's famous lechon, including lechon quesadilla and lechon with hoisin and leeks.

“At NUSTAR, we’re committed to curating a dining experience that celebrates Cebu’s heart and soul. By collaborating with both seasoned artisan chefs and promising culinary students, we’ve crafted the Taste Cebu menu to fuse tradition with innovation, creating exclusive dishes you can only experience here,” said Chef Martin Rebolledo.

Taste Cebu 2025 marked the start of an exciting culinary journey at NUSTAR, celebrating the rich flavors of Cebu and showcasing the talents of chefs who continue to shape its culinary future. In the coming months, special food offerings and promotions will be introduced including Lunar New Year menus from Mott 32, Huangdi, and Xin Tian Di. NUSTAR continues to position Cebu as a key food tourism destination with fresh and unique dining experiences. Visit nustar.ph for more information.

22/01/2025

SPOTTED: Share This Billboard and Win a Brand New HONOR X9c 5G

Hurry! Capture HONOR X9c 5G’s billboard along EDSA and you will get a chance to win a phone

Manila, Philippines, January 20, 2025 – Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines took pride with its first ever billboard. Staying to its innovative and out-of-the-box concepts, a mechanical billboard just for the toughest phone can be seen along
EDSA-Kamuning. Capture it and you might just win your very own HONOR X9c 5G!

"We’re very proud of our growth. We started two years ago, and our progress has been unstoppable. Now, we’re launching our very first billboard and we’ve got something for our HONOR fans. Spot and share to win an HONOR X9c 5G,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President
Stephen Cheng.

Spot and Win and HONOR X9c 5G Billboard Contest


From January 16 to 31, you can get a chance to WIN a brand-new HONOR X9c 5G in just three easy steps!

1. Like and Follow HONOR Philippines Social Media Pages (FB, IG, TikTok, X)

2. Take a video or photo of the HONOR X9c 5G billboard

3. Post and answer the question; "Why do you deserve to win an HONOR X9c 5G?" and tag three of your friends with the hashtags:

The winner will be announced on February 5, 2025 via HONOR PH’s Instagram Story.

A BRAND-NEW ROLEX DATEJUST Watch is still up for grabs when you pre-order HONOR X9c 5G until January 24 for only Php 16,999! Run to any HONOR Experience and Partner Store or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X9c_PR),
Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9c_PR)
and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X9c_PR).

For more affordable payment options, the HONOR X9c 5G is also available through installments via TikTok Paylater with the same freebies until January 24, 2025.

22/01/2025

BusinessWeek National Feature (January 22, 2025)

22/01/2025

2GO CFO Will Howell Expands Role as COO

Manila, Philippines, 20 January 2025 – 2GO Group, Inc., the country’s leading end-to-end shipping and logistics solutions provider, proudly announces the appointment of Will Howell to the expanded combined role of Group Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer. This appointment aim to streamline operations, enhance strategic decision making, and foster a more integrated approach to financial and operational management.



Mr. Howell has been instrumental in partnering with 2GO’s Business Units to drive financial and operational discipline that has helped 2GO achieve growth and profitability for three consecutive years. He supported investing in assets across 2GO’s Business Units, as well as divestitures or closers of non-performing businesses, and improving the Company’s cash flows and financial position.



"I am honored to take on this expanded role at 2GO," said Mr. Howell. "Achieving sustainable growth and profitability has been incredibly rewarding. We worked hard to enhance efficiency and improve service delivery, positioning the Company as a leader in the Philippine logistics industry. I am excited for what 2025 brings and shall work closely with our employees, partners, and stakeholders to create even greater value for our customers," he adds.



In 2024, 2GO achieved several key milestones that underscored its position as the Philippines’ leading logistics provider. These include the addition of three large ROPAX vessels to service freight and travel growth in VISMIN, the successful expansion of its cold chain and ISO tank services and improved operational efficiency across its last mile courier and parcel deliveries and forwarding services. These accomplishments highlight 2GO’s unwavering commitment to innovation and customer-centricity driven by a strong leadership team.



Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and CEO of 2GO, expressed his confidence in Howell’s ability to lead in his expanded role. "Will’s leadership has been a guiding spirit in strengthening 2GO’s financial and operational foundation. I am excited to see how he will continue to drive the company’s ambition and purpose in his new capacity."



For more information about 2GO, visit 2go.com.ph.

Photo caption: William Howell, as Chief Operating Officer for 2GO Group, Inc.

22/01/2025

Green Planet Corp inaugurates DOST-funded renewable energy processing plant in MisOr

Providing an innovative and sustainable solution to the waste problem of Misamis Oriental, Green Planet Renewable Energy Corp (GPREC) partnered with the Department of Science and Technology - X (DOST-X) to refurbish a pyrolysis plant that turns used tires and plastic into valuable industrial fuel oil.

The company inaugurated the DOST-funded pyrolysis plant on January 10, 2025, in Naawan, Misamis Oriental. It is a one-of-a-kind processing plant in Misamis Oriental that showcases the transformative power of pyrolysis technology. This innovation provides an eco-friendly approach to waste management and aligns with DOST's commitment to promoting a circular economy.

The fuel oil produced through pyrolysis is suitable for generating heat and steam. It is a cheaper substitute for conventional fuels used in industrial boilers and furnaces.

"We do believe that with the valuable efforts of the incumbent leadership of the Department of Science and Technology Region X. We would say, this is not the last support we need from your office, as we are much confident that DOST is a government agency that appropriately makes use of science and technology to resolve perennial problems felt and looming nation-wide", said Fernando M. Sebial, Chief Operating Officer of GPREC, underscoring the importance of DOST's support in the establishment of the pyrolysis plant.

Processing used tires and plastic waste into fuel oil is just the 1st phase of the company's operation. GPREC plans to expand as a garbage processor of all sorts of garbage other than used tires for interested LGUs and the envisioned "Garbage to Power" facility in the locality.

In 2024, GPREC received DOST-X's assistance through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) to upgrade major parts of the plant. The plant's capacity was increased from three to five tons to improve its efficiency and production volume by 33.33% and 140%, respectively. The increase will allow the firm to cater to more manufacturing plants in need of cheaper alternative fuel for operations.

Aside from generating wealth, this project's long-term impact is sustainability for possible options to manage current wastes in Northern Mindanao.

This project underscores DOST’s commitment to promoting a circular path in managing our resources and a green economy for sustainability, one of the key messages from the recently concluded 2024 National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week last November 27 - December 01, 2024.

To learn more about DOST SETUP, message or call the DOST SETUP hotline at 0917-857-9285 or our official page, DOST 10. (John Paulo R. Tumala/DOSTMisamis Oriental)

22/01/2025

Cebu Pacific Kicks Off Direct Manila – Sapporo Flights

CEB is the largest airline connecting Philippines and Japan

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines' leading carrier, on Thursday flew its maiden flight from Manila to Sapporo, making it the only airline to offer direct flights between the two cities and solidifying its position as the largest airline connecting Philippines
and Japan.

Sapporo is CEB’s fifth destination in Japan, giving Filipinos more opportunities to explore the country with its strong international connectivity, signature low fares, and unbeatable seat sales. Aside from Sapporo, CEB also flies to Tokyo (Narita), Osaka,
Nagoya, and Fukuoka from Manila, Clark, or Cebu.

Starting January 16, CEB will operate direct flights between Manila and Sapporo thrice weekly, every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The flight departs from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) at 11:15 AM and arrives in Sapporo at 5:25 PM (local time).
From New Chitose International Airport, the flight takes off at 6:25 PM and lands in Manila at 11:20 PM (local time).

CEB’s direct service shortens the journey by up to five hours and offers passengers the opportunity to save up to 63% on airfare.

“Sapporo is a gem in Japan’s tourism landscape, renowned for its winter magic, stunning natural parks, and rich cultural heritage. We are excited to bring Sapporo much closer to our Filipino travelers in our commitment to make air travel even more accessible
and affordable for every Juan,” said Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer.

The launch of CEB’s newest international destination was marked by a festive ceremony at the NAIA Terminal 3, graced by Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines His Excellency Kazuya Endo, Philippine Transportation Undersecretary Bobby Lim, and Japan National
Tourism Organization Executive Director Makoto Watanabe.

“I would like to encourage everyone in the Philippines to come visit and make Hokkaido your next adventure. The Japanese government is actively working with the Philippine Department of Tourism to promote tourism and foster deeper cultural exchanges between
our two countries,” His Excellency Ambassador Kazuya Endo said in his speech during the maiden flight event.

The new direct flights to Sapporo also make it easier for travelers to explore the region’s popular winter activities. From skiing on powdery snow to experiencing the Sapporo Snow Festival, there's something for every Juan to experience. Visitors can also enjoy
freshly brewed beer at the Sapporo Beer Museum, stroll along the Otaru Canal, or relax in onsens to make the most of their trip.

Passengers may use their existing Travel Funds to book flights and avail themselves of other add-ons. CEB also offers other payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets.

CEB operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Photo Caption: Cebu Pacific, Department of Transportation, and Japan National Tourism Organization officials celebrate kickoff of Manila - Sapporo flight. [From left to right: Hisashi Kawamura, JNTO Director; Candice Iyog, CEB Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer; Makoto Watanabe, JNTO Executive Director; Endo Kazuya, Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines; Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer; Roberto Lim, DOTr Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports]

22/01/2025

Orbits Satellite Internet key to ending internet woes in PH

By: Ruffy Magbanua

MANILA — Orbits Satellite Corporation is poised to end the four identified problems of internet connectivity in the Philippines: Signal, Speed, Security and Affordability.

Orbits satellite internet will provide lasting solution to the country’s laggard internet connectivity following the recent launch of its satellite internet facility in December 2024 by Astranis in Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA.

Orbits Satellite Corporation President and CEO Augusto Baculio Jr said “our mission is to connect the unconnected regions of the country, providing them with the necessary internet connectivity to thrive in the Digital Age.

“Most of the internet pe*******on in the Philippines is confined only in metropolitan areas,” said Baculio, “outside of that, going to the inner communities, over mountains, across islands — that is where you have intermittent access to connectivity, or none at all.”

Getting these people connected is critically important, and that is why we are excited to partner with Astranis in this important and critical project to bring a dedicated internet satellite to the Philippines, Baculio said.

Orbits is a satellite services provider and the sister company of a local Philippine ISP, HTechCorp, which has over 20 years of experience in providing internet services to the country’s 7,641 islands.

Astranis is the world’s leading operator of dedicated communications satellites. Astranis had partnered with Orbits to bring to the country the first-ever dedicated internet satellite. The satellite internet will provide sufficient bandwidth to connect up to two million people across 5,000 remote and rural communities in the Philippines.

“We are incredibly excited to give the Filipino people their own, dedicated satellite,” said Astranis CEO John Gedmark. “We expect this to be a critical piece of digital infrastructure that will help millions of people improve their lives,” Gedmark said.

Astranis satellite will be the first internet satellite ever dedicated to the Philippines, a country that is uniquely challenging to cover with traditional connectivity solutions like fiber, microwave, and large satellite systems.

Over 20 typhoons in the Philippines each year, and other natural disasters, challenge the Filipino people and prove the importance of resilient connectivity infrastructure, Gedmark said.

Given its geographic challenges, only 11,000 of the country’s 42,000 local communities are covered by fiber optics today, and many of those left unconnected are what the Philippine government has identified as Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA).

GIDA communities often do not have local hospitals and other public service institutions. Connecting these GIDA communities to reliable and affordable internet services is a major priority of the government. Astranis has been building dedicated, low-cost communications satellites to connect the unconnected with affordable internet access.

Each Astranis spacecraft operates from geostationary orbit (GEO) with a next-generation design of only 400 kg, utilizing a proprietary software-defined radio payload. This allows Astranis to provide dedicated satellites to small and medium-sized countries, Fortune 1000 companies, and other customers, as well as the US Government for national security applications.

Astranis had successfully set up its first satellite internet in Alaska. The Philippines will be the second recipient of satellite internet connectivity this year, Gedmark added.

21/01/2025

21/01/2025

OVER 17MILLION SMUGGLED CI******ES SEIZED IN TWO SEPARATE OPERATIONS

CAMP ALAGAR, Cagayan de Oro City - Police Regional Office 10 (PRO10) successfully intercepted smuggled ci******es valued at approximately P17 million in two separate operations conducted on January 19, 2025, in Lanao del Norte and Bukidnon.

At around 3:21 AM, personnel from the 1005th Mobile Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (RMFB 10), in coordination with Pantar Municipal Police Station (MPS), flagged down a blue Isuzu Canter truck based on intelligence from a reliable informant. The vehicle, suspected of transporting contraband from Malabang, Lanao del Sur, was found to contain smuggled ci******es during the inspection.

The driver was identified as alias “Raffy”, a 21-year-old resident of Brgy. Tangcal, Tugaya, Lanao del Sur.

Confiscated items include 82 Master Cases of Canon Ci******es, 31 Master Cases of Champion Ci******es, 590 Reams of Canon Ci******es, 120 Reams of Champion Ci******es, with a total estimated market value of PhP5,088,000.00.

The suspect is now under the custody of Pantar MPS for proper documentation and filing of charges for violations of R.A. 10643 (Government Health Warning Law) and R.A. 8293 (Intellectual Property Code).

The confiscated contraband and the vehicle will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs in Iligan City for further investigation and proper disposition.

Later at 2:20 PM, personnel from Dangcagan Municipal Police Station (MPS) conducted a checkpoint in Purok 1, Brgy. Lourdes, Dangcagan, Bukidnon, resulting in the apprehension of two individuals identified by their aliases as “Chris”, 26 years old resident of Zamboanga Sibugay, and “Ian”, 36 years old, resident of Zamboanga City.

While conducting checkpoint, police flagged down a truck loaded with alleged smuggled ci******es without pertinent documents.
Accordingly, the contraband originated from SND, Lanao del Norte, and was en route to Cagayan de Oro City.

Seized items were 300 Boxes of Cannon Menthol Ci******es, one Aluminum Wing Van Truck, with a total estimated market value of PhP12,000,000.00.

All Confiscated items will be properly turned over to BOC for proper disposition.

PBGEN JAYSEN C DE GUZMAN, Regional Director, PRO10, commended the dedication of the operating units and emphasized the importance of collaboration in combating illegal activities.

“We will continue to strengthen our efforts in the fight against smuggling and other illegal activities in Northern Mindanao. We urge everyone to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting suspicious activities to help us combat smuggling and other crimes,” he said.

SOURCE: RPIO PRO10

21/01/2025

BusinessWeek National Feature (January 21, 2025)