Mactan Island News (2025)

15/01/2025

Cebu CCI to Lead Trade Mission to Osaka, Japan for Osaka Synergy 2025

The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is set to spearhead an exciting 5-day trade mission to Osaka, Japan, from February 23-27. This mission will participate in the highly anticipated Osaka Synergy 2025, featuring Japan’s premier expos in key industries.

As Japan’s third-largest city, Osaka is a dynamic hub renowned for its fusion of history, technology, and culinary innovation. Known as the “Nation’s Kitchen” for its vibrant street food culture, Osaka also stands as a beacon of technological advancements, offering countless opportunities for business development and industry growth. The Cebu delegation will explore potential collaborations, technology transfers, and cultural exchanges, all designed to benefit Cebu’s local industries.

This trade mission will bring delegates to four of Osaka’s leading exhibitions, including FooDtech Week, Food Hygiene Expo, INTERPHEX Week, and the Regenerative Medicine Expo. These expos will provide unique opportunities to engage with cutting-edge advancements in key sectors such as food production, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and regenerative medicine.

● FooDtech Week will spotlight technologies driving automation, digital transformation in food factories, and measures to prevent food loss, with solutions from Japan and across Asia.
● The Food Hygiene Expo is dedicated to innovations in food safety technologies and hygiene solutions.
● At INTERPHEX Week, delegates will attend exhibitions on manufacturing and packaging, pharmaceutical R&D and drug discovery, as well as pharma digital transformation.
● The Regenerative Medicine Expo will focus on culture media, reagents, incubators, cell research products, contract services, and licensing in the burgeoning field of regenerative medicine.

With a target of 50 delegates, the mission offers an exceptional opportunity for businesses to connect with industry leaders, discover cutting-edge technologies, and gain invaluable insights into global market trends.

Investment Fee: USD 1,800 (includes roundtrip airfare, hotel accommodation (twin/triple sharing), airport and inland transfers, travel tax, and visa processing).

In addition to the expos, delegates will also meet with Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), the Consulate General of the Philippines in Osaka, and the Osaka Business Promotions Center for further networking and business development opportunities.

For more information, please contact the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry at (032) 232 1421 to 24 and ask for Ms. Karen or visit our website at https://cebuchamber.org/.

15/01/2025

Viva Pit Senyor! Elevate your Sinulog 2025 experience with Globe

Cebu City is set to come alive once more as Sinulog 2025 returns in full force, and Globe is ready to elevate the celebration with engaging activities and robust network connectivity.

Kasama mo ang Globe in every meaningful moment with your loved ones as it ensures reliable connection and exciting rewards at the festival.

Sinulog is one of the biggest and most vibrant festivals in the Philippines, and Globe has been a steadfast supporter through the years. With its return to the Cebu City Sports Complex, Sinulog 2025 is expected to be grander than ever.

“Sinulog showcases how Globe’s reliable network and ecosystem supports meaningful connections and passions. Kasama mo kami in key locations of the festival as we bring our services closer to the community,” said Bianca Wong, Globe Vice President for Marketing.

Here’s what Globe has in store in this year’s Sinulog:

Sinulog Pop-Up Experiences at Mactan–Cebu International Airport

Globe kicks off the celebrations at the Mactan–Cebu International Airport from January 12-17, offering a warm welcome to tourists, balikbayans, and locals.

Guests arriving during the festival period may visit the Sinulog-themed booth featuring live performances from Sinulog Queens and traditional drumbeaters. Freebies such as exclusively-designed Sinulog pouches await those who avail of Globe Prepaid SIMs or top-ups worth PHP 500 and above.

To further engage customers, the first 100 users to download and register on the GlobeOne app each day will receive free Rewards points that they can use to redeem G Swipe offers.

Festival Experience and G Music Fest at Ayala Center Cebu
From January 17-19, Globe will host fun and exciting activities at Ayala Center Cebu.

At the mall’s Activity Center, Globe customers just need to answer an event survey for a chance to win an iPhone 16. The Swag Station will also allow attendees to pay with Rewards points to personalize their merchandise for a unique touch.

On January 19, from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., the Ayala Center Cebu Terraces will be the center of an unforgettable evening as Globe presents G Music Fest, featuring local and national talents, including Syd Hartha, Shoti, Mandaue Nights, and more.

Empowering the Youth Through Education Initiatives
Beyond the festivities, Globe continues to champion educational programs through G-Gantic Goals, a program that engages Globe customers to support various causes, from addressing involuntary hunger to bridging the digital divide.

Lahug Elementary School - Cebu City together with four other G-Gantic Goals school partners in Luzon will benefit from 100 Huawei devices and digital learning demonstrations in partnership with Khan Academy and Ayala Foundation, underscoring Globe’s commitment to empowering the next generation student leaders.
As Sinulog 2025 comes near, Globe invites everyone to as they revel in Cebu’s most beloved festival.

For more details on Globe’s Sinulog activities, follow Globe’s official Sinulog 2025 event page and stay tuned for exciting updates.

11/01/2025

In a display of unwavering dedication to public service, Mayor Junard "Ahong" Chan braved heavy rain Tuesday night to oversee a critical drainage project in Barangay Babag and personally supervise the progress of a crucial drainage pipe-laying project.

“Matag gabii atong tan-awon ilang trabaho kay narrow ang road mao nga pinaspasay ang trabaho,” said Mayor Chan on his social media page.

Despite the torrential downpour that began at 11:43 PM, Mayor Chan remained on-site, ensuring the uninterrupted continuation of the project throughout the night along Babag Road, near Hanniyah Subdivision.

His commitment stemmed from the need to minimize disruption to motorists who rely on the narrow road during daytime hours.

“Atong gi-pressure gyud og maayo ang contractor, nga magtinabangay ta, ato ning paspasan ang trabaho kay mao ning gusto sa atong kaigsuonan Oponganon, nga mamenos ta sa perwisyo sa pag-agi ning karsadaha,” the mayor said, explaining why they need to work fast at night and make the road passable during the day.

To expedite the project, three heavy equipment units were deployed from 9:30 PM to 5:30 AM, focusing on rock-breaking, excavation, pipe-laying, and road reinstatement.

Mayor Chan emphasized the urgency of the project, highlighting its importance to the residents of Lapu-Lapu City, specifically in that area, as the drainage outfall is a mangrove area beside Hanniyah Subdivision and across Babag Church.

He stressed the need for swift action to alleviate the persistent flooding issues that have plagued Sitio Kalolo and Timpolok.

The Babag pipeline is a critical component of the larger drainage system, connecting to ongoing drainage works in Kalolo and Timpolok, which are critical flood-prone areas.

Unfazed by the downpour, Mayor Chan urged the project team to persevere despite the challenging conditions.

He underscored the project's significance in mitigating flood risks and improving the overall quality of life for the residents of Lapu-Lapu City.

“Nibunok ang uwan diri, pwerteng bunok pero dili nato ig-sapayan nga mobunok ang uwan, basta padayon ang trabaho, way hunong ang trabaho bisan unsa ka kusog ang uwan mga kaigsuonan, para lang madali ang paghuman sa drainage project diri sa barangay Babag, padung sa barangay Calawisan, ngadto na sa barangay Canjulao,” Mayor Chan said.

Acknowledging the potential inconvenience caused by the nighttime construction, Mayor Chan appealed for understanding from the residents of Barangay Babag.

“Mangayo ko sa pagsabot sa lumolupyo diri sa barangay Babag, diin mag breaker gyud, ang kagahi sa bato, mga kaigsuonan, mao na kinahanglan ang breaker, medyo saba, pero mohangyo lang gyud ko, mangayo ko og dispensa, mangayo ko ninyo og pasaylo, unsaon man nga kinahanglan gyud nato, labi na karon nga ting-uwan mga kaigsuonan, di ta gusto nga maglunop ang atong syudad sa Lapu-Lapu, atoang i-address ang problema sa baha,” Mayor Chan said on his social media page while standing in the heavy downpour.

He explained the necessity of using heavy machinery, such as rock breakers, to overcome the challenging terrain. He sincerely apologized for any disturbances caused by the construction noise but reiterated the project's critical role in addressing the city's flooding woes.

Mayor Chan's hands-on approach and unwavering commitment to serving his constituents, even in the face of adversity, exemplify his dedication to improving the lives of the people of Lapu-Lapu City.

His leadership and determination inspire confidence that the drainage project will be completed efficiently and effectively, bringing much-needed relief to flood-affected communities. |via Lapu-Lapu City Information Office

10/01/2025

Best Photography with Flagship Performance Unfolded on the HUAWEI Mate X6

HUAWEI is gearing up to raise the bar for foldable phones with the upcoming launch of its newest addition to the HUAWEI Mate foldable series, the HUAWEI Mate X6. As an all-rounded and advanced smartphone, the HUAWEI Mate X6 brings significant updates to display, camera, durability, user experience, and more.

Hailed as a “breakthrough technology from inside to out, bringing consumers a fully innovative foldable screen experience,” the HUAWEI Mate X6 allows users to capture breathtaking images, enjoy immersive visuals, and seamlessly multitask on the go — all in a style that they will love to flaunt.

Classics Never Go Out of Style

The HUAWEI Mate X6 is designed to make a statement. Inspired by the exploration of the universe, the phone combines futuristic design with innovation. Its design reminiscent of the space-age orbit symbolizes the infinite possibility of the future, while presenting a sleek and refined aesthetic.

The phone remains ultra-lightweight and slim, weighing just 239g and measuring 9.85mm when folded. With its quad-curve frame and elegantly rounded edges, the HUAWEI Mate X6 delivers a comfortable grip transforming the possibilities of the foldable smartphone design. Crafted with Micro-Nano 3D Topography, the HUAWEI Mate X6’s vegan leather options in Nebula Red and Black offers a smooth, elegant, anti-fingerprint finish for a refined and comfort driven-user experience. Its ultra-reflective optical coating adds a radiant glow to the device.

The phone’s foldable design lends itself to a bigger, brighter dual-screen display. It features the HUAWEI X-True™ Display technology, which delivers high-brightness, and true-to-color visuals on both interior and exterior screens. The phone boasts a 6.45-inch OLED exterior screen with 2440x1080 resolution and 2,500-nit peak brightness, as well as a 7.93-inch OLED interior screen with 2440x2240 resolution and 1,800-nit peak brightness. Both screens offer stunning clarity and an LTPO 2.0 adaptive refresh rate of 1-120Hz for smooth visuals and efficient energy. The HUAWEI Mate X6 supports up to 1440Hz PWM dimming to reduce eye strain in low-light conditions, making sure users get an immersive, fatigue-free viewing experience whether they are reading or browsing.

Remarkable Reliability from Inside Out

The HUAWEI Mate X6 transforms foldable phone architecture and optimizes the phone’s internal space. Under the hood, the phone’s innovative distributed architecture delivers a huge leap in network, cooling, and durability. The distribution of RF units increases overall signal strength by 60% . It also leads to an improved reliability, communication, signal perception, and heat management, while maintaining the phone’s slim and lightweight profile.

The phone is built for durability with advanced materials and technologies. Its exterior screen is protected by 2nd Generation KUNLUN Glass, which offers greater drop resistance. The inner screen features a carbon fiber inner screen plate to enhance stiffness and deformation resistance. The phone’s aviation-grade aluminum middle frame increases strength and provides excellent impact protection. The innovative materials, such as ultra-high thermal conductivity graphene and heat source separation, allow HUAWEI Mate X6 to have efficient cooling, with the heat dissipation area increased by 30% . Even for scenarios such as playing mobile games and making video calls simultaneously, HUAWEI Mate X6 can guarantee a good performance.

Breakthrough Foldable Photography

Beyond its elegant aesthetics, the HUAWEI Mate X6 captures the world at its best. With its TÜV Color Accuracy and Stability Certified Ultra Aperture XMAGE Camera, the HUAWEI Mate X6 sets a new benchmark for foldable smartphones. This camera system combines multiple lenses: a 50MP Ultra Aperture Camera with a variable 1.4 to F4.0 aperture, a 48MP Telephoto Micro Camera with 4X optical zoom and super macro capabilities, and a 40MP Ultra-Wide Angle Camera. The HUAWEI Mate X6 features the world’s first adjustable aperture feature on a foldable smartphone, with the adjustable 10-size physical aperture of the Ultra Aperture Camera. This allows for optimized photography settings in various conditions. From low-light environments to fast-moving subjects, the HUAWEI Mate X6 can adjust the aperture to offer clear and beautifully detailed shots in any scenario.

The Moving Picture feature enables users to have fun effects on their photos, including multiple exposures and long exposure.

The HUAWEI Mate X6 also features an Ultra Chroma Camera, which improves color accuracy and allows users to capture true-to-life images with a 120% increase in color precision. The HUAWEI Mate X6 takes photos with vibrant, accurate colors even in challenging lighting conditions.

Leading Immersive Large-Screen Experience

Complimenting the phone’s engineering, the HUAWEI Mate X6 features an advanced ecosystem that takes foldable innovation and user experience to the next level. The HUAWEI Mate X6 offers features such as Smart-Multi Windows, Vertical and Horizontal Views, and the Adaptive UI Engine to significantly improve the dual-screen’s efficiency. The Live Multi-Task feature offers a new way to multi-task efficiently, allowing users to run up to three apps simultaneously on the expanded screen. Whether they are browsing on Google Chrome, hailing a ride on Grab, or conducting financial transactions via BDO Online, the phone allows users to easily switch between them for seamless multitasking.

The phone also introduces fun features such as the Emoji Crush, an interactive theme that reacts to user gestures, and Air Hoops, a gesture-controlled game that can be played instantly without unlocking the phone.

Unfold the Future with the HUAWEI Mate X6: Launching in January 2025

The HUAWEI Mate X6 guarantees a unique, foldable smartphone experience that will change users’ outlook on smartphone convenience. Unfold the universe right at the palm of your hand with the HUAWEI Mate X6, slated to launch in the Philippines this January 2025.

10/01/2025

NGCP MARKS FRUITFUL 2024, EYES COMPLETION OF KEY PROJECTS SOON

Several milestones marked NGCP’s achievements in 2024, following the completion of four major grid projects that have significantly bolstered the reliability of the country’s grid infrastructure.

In January, NGCP inaugurated the Mindanao-Visayas Interconnection Project (MVIP), the Cebu- Negros-Panay 230-kiloVolt (kV) backbone in April, and the Mariveles-Hermosa-San Jose 500kV Line in July.

Capping its fruitful year, NGCP also fully completed the Cebu-Bohol Interconnection Project last September. The CBIP plays a crucial role in improving transmission services and grid stability in Central Visayas and helps develop the transmission highway in Cebu, the load center of Visayas, through a new line that will transmit power in and out of the province.

“These achievements reflect NGCP’s strong commitment to advancing our grid infrastructure to ensure a more stable and resilient power supply for households, businesses, and industries,” NGCP said.

Aside from the completion of big-ticket projects, NGCP provided better service at a lower cost, charging only P0.55 centavos per KWH, compared to P0.74 under TransCo. The amount is equivalent to just 3.39 percent of the electricity bill, while generation and distribution charges make up its bulk with 53.17 percent and 21.81 percent, respectively.

Since NGCP took over the transmission operations from TransCo in 2009, outages went down by 82 percent, reflecting the significant improvement in the efficiency and reliability of the country’s grid under its watch.
Amid the successful year, NGCP is not resting on its laurels as it intends to complete more projects in the coming years, including the New Antipolo 230kV Substation in Rizal, Laguindingan 230kV Substation in Misamis Oriental, and substation upgrading, voltage improvement, and reliability projects in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Other projects scheduled for completion, barring any further right-of-way, permitting, and other external delays, include the Tuguegarao–Lal-lo (Magapit) 230kV Transmission Line, Ambuklao- Binga-San Manuel 230kV Line, Western Luzon 500kV Backbone Stage 2, Marilao Extra High Voltage Substation, Tuy 500/230 kV Project Stage 1, Nabas-Caticlan-Boracay 138kV Line, Cebu- Lapu Lapu 230kV Transmission Line, Lapu Lapu 230kV Substation Project, Tacurong- Kalamansig 69 kV Transmission Line Project, and other upgrading projects.
“Despite challenges being encountered in right-of-way acquisition and permitting, with the support of relevant government agencies, we are optimistic that we are on track to finish these projects in the pipeline,” said NGCP.

The transmission grid operator renewed its appeal for the swift resolution and approval of applications filed with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), which affects the company’s operations. As a highly regulated entity, NGCP needs the ERC’s approval to implement its projects and to recover the costs spent in building these transmission facilities.

“We remain hopeful that the ERC will support our efforts by ensuring a timely and fair recovery for our capital expenditure. This recovery is vital to sustaining our investment in enhancing the reliability and capacity of our energy infrastructure,” NGCP remarked.|

10/01/2025

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF CCLEX FOR AIA CEBU CITY MARATHON 2025

For those traveling between Cebu City and the Island of Mactan, please be advised that the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) will be temporarily closed on Saturday, January 11, 2025, from 10:00 PM until 9:00 AM on Sunday, January 12, 2025. This closure is to accommodate the AIA Cebu City Marathon (CCM) 2025, which will be held on January 12, 2025 at SM Seaside City Cebu.

The marathon, one of the country’s largest and most prestigious running events, will feature over 12,000 participants from more than 40 countries, marking the biggest turnout in the history of the race. The runners will compete across various categories, including the challenging 42K, 25K, 12K, and 6K distances, with the CCLEX forming part of the scenic route.

Organized by the Cebu Executive Runners Club (CERC), the AIA Cebu City Marathon has become an iconic event in Cebu’s sports calendar. This year, a record-breaking 3,127 runners are set to take on the grueling 42-kilometer race, while the 25K category leads the pack with 6,165 entries. The 12K race has attracted 2,090 participants, and the 6K fun run will see 893 runners.

A Record-Breaking Event This year’s AIA Cebu City Marathon will be the largest since its inception in 2008, surpassing last year’s participation of 8,800 runners. The marathon’s growing popularity is a testament to Cebu’s rising status as a premier running destination. The event also provides a unique opportunity for runners to experience the breathtaking views of the Cebu Strait and the cityscape, with the CCLEX serving as a major highlight of the race route.

In an exciting development, the 2025 CCM will be officially registered with the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), making it a qualifying race for major international marathons. This new milestone is expected to attract even more elite runners in the future, further elevating the event's stature.

Race Expo and Kit Claiming

The Race Expo and Kit Claiming for participants are ongoing at the Mountain Wing of SM Seaside, Cebu. The expo is open Friday, January 10, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and will conclude Saturday, January 11, from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM. All runners are encouraged to claim their race kits early to avoid the last-minute rush.

Race Day: January 12, 2025 On race day, the gun start will take place at 12:30 AM, with a cutoff time of eight hours for all categories. Cash prizes and exclusive goodies await the top finishers.

42K Winners: The champion will receive P40,000, with second to fifth place taking home P20,000, P15,000, P10,000, and P7,500, respectively.

25K Winners: The top 5 will win P20,000, P10,000, P7,500, P5,000, and P3,000.

12K Winners: The top finishers in the 12K category will be awarded P10,000, P8,000, P5,000, P3,000, and P2,000.

6K Winners: The top 5 runners in the 6K race will receive P5,000, P4,000, P3,000, P2,000, and P1,000.

In addition to the cash prizes, there will be a Best Costume Prize, which will be awarded to the most creatively dressed runner. All participants will also be entered into a surprise raffle with exciting prizes to be won.

Important Notice for Motorists traveling between Cebu City and Mactan are advised to plan ahead and use alternate routes due to the temporary closure of CCLEX.

For more information about the race, please visit the AIA Cebu Marathon official page. |

08/01/2025

Cebu Pacific Secures Southeast Asia’s First Sustainability-Linked Loan for Low-Cost Airlines

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading airline, has made history by securing Southeast Asia’s first Sustainability-Linked Loan (SLL) for a low-cost carrier. This landmark deal highlights CEB’s commitment to decarbonizing its operations and reinforces its leadership in sustainable air travel within the region.

The loan was arranged by Crédit Agricole CIB and structured under a Japanese Operating Lease with Call Option (JOLCO). As part of the SLL, CEB has committed to performance targets aimed at reducing the carbon emission intensity of its aircraft fleet. Meeting these targets will result in financial incentives for the airline under the loan.

“Cebu Pacific’s first sustainability-linked aircraft financing is a milestone in our decarbonization journey, as the transaction supports the core element of our program—the modernization of our fleet towards more
advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft. With this deal, we want to emphasize that access to financing for sustainability initiatives is available and that Cebu Pacific is taking full advantage of such opportunities in our pursuit of being the decarbonization leader in the region,” said Mark Cezar, CEB Chief Financial Officer.

The loan has facilitated the acquisition of a brand-new Airbus A321neo, which was delivered to the airline on December 23, 2024. The new engine option (NEO) aircraft, with improved fuel efficiency compared to previous generations, will contribute to CEB’s carbon emission reduction goals as it progresses toward transitioning to an all-NEO fleet by 2028.

Crédit Agricole CIB, the corporate and investment banking arm of the Crédit Agricole Group, served as the sole Sustainability Advisor, JOLCO Arranger, and Mandated Lead Arranger for the debt.

“We are delighted to have been selected by Cebu Pacific to structure their first sustainability-linked aircraft financing. Crédit Agricole CIB is a pioneer in sustainable finance and as we are committed to supporting our clients in their decarbonization efforts, we have built-in a financial incentive mechanism rewarding the airline’s progress towards their net zero ambition. We hope this is the first of many more sustainability-linked centered collaborations with Cebu Pacific,” said Bertrand Rovetto, Crédit Agricole CIB Head of Aviation Group Asia-Pacific.

The SLL represents a critical step in CEB’s broader efforts to integrate sustainability into its financial and operational strategies. As the airline enters 2025, it aims to maintain its leadership in the domestic aviation sector, set a benchmark for the industry, and champion sustainable air travel.

07/01/2025

LOOK | Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard "Ahong" Chan personally assisted with the situation and provided emotional support to the family of Reynaldo Sagarino Fernandez, 37 years old, who had disappeared after going fishing on Sunday, January 05, 2025 in the waters of Barangay San Vicente, Olango Island.

The rescue team searching for Reynaldo consists of the Maritime Police, the Lapu-Lapu City Fire District-Emergency Medical Services, Coast Guard and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Lapu-Lapu City headed by Emeterio Bonghanoy, along with bantay dagat and volunteers.

The Lapu-Lapu City Rescue Team, together with PCol. Dyan Agustin, the City Director of the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office, and District Fire Marshal Supt. Tito Purgatorio, was also at Marigondon Port, where the body of Reynaldo was brought after being found underwater near Sulpa Island in Barangay San Vicente, to support and personally assess the rescue operation.

Meanwhile, Reynaldo’s brother, Eduardo Sagarino Fernandez Jr., a member of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and their mother, Emma Sagarino Fernandez, are at Marigondon Port awaiting the arrival of Reynaldo's body, deeply saddened by the tragic loss of their loved one. | via Lapu-Lapu City Information Office

07/01/2025

Island Runners: Join the FREE Daily Community Run for Fun and Friendship

If you’re looking to get active, meet new friends, and enjoy a daily run, the Island Runners community has you covered! This exciting, FREE community-run event invites individuals of all fitness levels to join in the fun from Monday to Friday, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Whether you're a seasoned runner or someone just starting out, the group offers an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome.

The community-run is not just about fitness – it’s about building connections, supporting each other, and making memories one step at a time. With daily runs hosted at various scenic venues around the island, participants will have the chance to explore new places while staying fit and having fun.

Daily Run Schedule & Venues:

Monday: Roro Port, Cordova
Tuesday: The Giddy Goat (Subabasbas, LLC)
Wednesday: Mactan Island Memorial Garden
Thursday: The Giddy Goat (Subabasbas, LLC)
Friday: Mactan Newtown

Membership Requirements:

For those looking to become official members of Island Runners, the following are the criteria for membership within three months:

10 Daily Runs
3 L*D (Long Slow Distance) Runs
This initiative is made possible with the support of several local businesses, each committed to promoting fitness, community, and well-being.

Island Runners’ Partners Include:

Donjjang Unlimited KBBQ Mactan
Marian's Brows 'n Lashes
Anytime Fitness Mactan
The Giddy Goat
Saint Dominic Savio International School
DAGAN CEBU
Megawear

So lace up your running shoes and join the Island Runners for an unforgettable experience of health, camaraderie, and fun! Whether you're running for fitness or friendship, there’s a place for you in the community.

04/01/2025

SAC-EAST HOSTS SIXTH HEALTH AND LEGAL MISSION IN CORDOVA

In a continuing effort to uplift underserved communities, the Skeptron Alumni of Cebu, Inc. (SAC)-East, in collaboration with the International Skeptron Alumni of Cebu (ISAC) and the Alpha Kappa Rho (AKRHO) Cordova Grand Council and Sorority, successfully hosted its sixth Legal Aid, Medical Mission, and Outreach Program in Barangay Bang Bang, Cordova in the island of Mactan.

The event, held at the newly constructed gym, ran from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM and provided health and legal services to 1,270 beneficiaries.

The initiative, spearheaded locally by ISAC East with AKRHO Cordova Grand Council led by Chairman Christopher Acebes co-organized the event by helping in ensuring the smooth and orderly delivery of free medical consultations, dental services, optical care, and legal assistance.

The program’s success highlighted the unwavering commitment of SAC-East and its partners to deliver much-needed aid to marginalized sectors.

Residents were able to access legal aid through a partnership with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Cebu City Chapter. Led by Atty. Mary Grace Casano, the IBP team offered free legal consultations, assisted with birth and civil registrations, and conducted notarizations as part of their comprehensive “womb-to-tomb” services. This partnership has been a cornerstone of SAC-East’s missions since 2021, reflecting a shared vision to address the legal needs of underserved communities.

Healthcare services were equally impactful. Dr. Joel Semblante, a veteran volunteer who has supported SAC’s missions since their inception, emphasized the importance of accessible medical care, particularly for low-income families. Dental services, led by Dr. Jocelle Arib of Smile ‘n Style Dental Clinic, addressed the often-overlooked issue of oral health, treating dozens of patients while raising awareness about dental hygiene. Optical services, under the leadership of Dr. Christine Fernandez Fabian of Mac Fernandez Fabian Corp, distributed over 200 eyeglasses and referred severe cases for further evaluation.

The program’s success was made possible through the coordinated efforts of SAC’s international and local chapters. ISAC Chairman Butz Booc (East Coast USA) and Vice-Chairman Raymund Flores (United Kingdom) spearheaded global support, with contributions from officers based in Australia, Qatar, and the United States. Locally, with th the support of the Local Government of the Municipality of Cordova and 6th District Congresswoman Daphne Lagon who extended her support by attending the event and endorsing future collaborations, aligning the initiative with her advocacy for accessible healthcare and legal services.

SAC-East Chairman Ricky Branzuela acknowledged the challenges of organizing the event, particularly in securing funding amid economic hardships faced by members. Despite these obstacles, the program thrived thanks to the unwavering support of international and local partners.

Looking ahead, SAC is exploring new avenues to expand its services. Plans are underway to introduce pet vaccination drives and establish follow-up care for medical patients, ensuring more comprehensive and sustained community support.

With six missions now completed, SAC-East remains steadfast in its commitment to bridging gaps in health and legal services. By fostering unity and compassion, SAC-East continues to be a beacon of hope for marginalized communities across Cebu and beyond. |via Jovelyn Degamo-Torrejas

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