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Project update: Cebu BRT to partially operate by end 2021

The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, a P16.3 billion project, is set to start its first phase and partial operations by December 2021. The technical working group for the said project only has this month (September) to finalize its study and design.

The said project is a component of the planned Integrated Intermodal Transportation System (IITS) in the province of Cebu. Initiated by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), this project seeks to integrate a monorail system, a cable car system, and the BRT to provide efficient transportation and answer the worsening traffic in the province of Cebu.

This project is funded by the World Bank and Agence Francaise de Development and its project implementation is spearheaded by the DOTr and NEDA.

Project Phase

The BRT project has 2 phases. The first phase will span from N. Bacalso Avenue (located near the South Bus Terminal) up to the Provincial Capitol through the Osmena Boulevard. Whereas the second phase of the project, which traverses Bulacao, Talisay City (southern part of Cebu) to Talamban. (Northern part), is targeted to be fully operational by March 2022.

Photo from InfoCebu
Photo from InfoCebu
Photo from InfoCebu

Project delays

The Cebu BRT has already seen delays in the actual project implementation. Originally, the first phase was supposed to start last October 2016, only to be reset to December 2017, and eventually to January 2020.

Now, it seems that the project will be further delayed to December 2021.

With this, Congressman Raul del Mar of the Cebu City North District has recently made an appeal to the DOTr and NEDA to hasten the badly needed BRT project. He said that it seemed like the project has been stuck in the very slow bureaucratic process, with the said project already failing twice to meet its targeted deadlines.

According to del Mar, had the project only followed the original timelines, it would have been fully operational already on the first quarter of this year, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

A recent report from the DOTr claimed that the BRT project is still undergoing review of its engineering design. Afterwards, only then can the DOTr proceed with the procurement process. The Commission on Audit (COA) has likewise flagged the project for delays in implementation.

In COA’s 2019 consolidated report last September 8, 2020, the BRT project has already incurred a P29.48 million of commitment fees dating back from 2015 to 2019 due to the delays.

BRT Stations renders

Check out these artist renders of the proposed Cebu BRT stations by a famous Cebuano furniture designer, Kenneth Cobonpue.

BRT to partially operate by end 2021

Despite all these delays, Cebuanos are still very hopeful for the successful project implementation in order to address the worsening traffic not only Cebu City, but in the neighbouring cities and towns as well.

Cebu BRT will focus its operations initially in the south of Cebu and will be operating buses that will serve in preparation for the BRT’s operation.

The first phase of Cebu BRT is scheduled for completion by end 2021.

7 Amazing Projects in South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu’s Growing Bud

Cebu has been doing well recently in the industrial world as it pushes more and more innovations for all to experience, and indeed many of them became successful. One of its growing buds is the projects along the South Road Properties (SRP) as it welcomes locals and foreigners alike with new and exciting ventures.

Let’s take a step back and look at all the wonders that have been built as well as the future plans and projects of the SRP.

1. SM Seaside, Cebu’s biggest mall

With its majestic tower peeking through the clouds and its wavy design pattern of its windows, SM Seaside truly captivates the hearts of the Cebuano people. Constructed back in 2015, the mall now holds the record of the third largest mall in the Philippines and the ninth largest mall in the whole world. The mall contains 700+ shops within, making it one of the best shopping experiences.

2. Pedro Calungsod Church with an iconic design

an Pedro Calungsod, who was officially canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on October 21, 2012, has been adored by many Filipino catholics for his nobility and his dedication to his faith. To honor him, a church constructed back in 2012 was named after the saint near SM Seaside. Now, it attracts many churchgoers to SRP.

The church can comfortably sit 803 people. It has a Baptistry, an Adoration Chapel, a Multi-Purpose Area for various activities and meetings of the parishioners as well as a Children’s Room where children can stay while the mass is ongoing.

This beautiful church is SM’s gift to the Filipinos in honor of our first Cebuano saint, San Pedro Calungsod.

3. Cebu Ocean Park: VisMin’s first Oceanarium

Cebu has just recently been honored to have the largest aquarium in the Philippines: Cebu Ocean Park. Full of a variety of different-colored fishes and menacing-looking sharks, it is an underwater adventure worth taking. It is expected to host more and more fine specimens in their aquarium, so don’t miss it!

Rates:

  •  Journey Experience
    • ₱600 per head on weekdays
    • ₱800 per head on weekends per head for adults and kids.
    • Children below 2ft are free of charge.
  • Sea Trek – ₱1,200
  • Crocodile Cage – ₱2,000
  • Fish spa – ₱100 per 20 mins.
  • Swim w/ the Sting ray – ₱1,000

Other Information

4. Il Corso: Cebu’s Resort-style Mall

ilcorso-lifestylemall-cebu
Photo by Caloy Ramirez

Filinvest’s Il Corso brands itself as a lifestyle mall that will cater to your lifestyle needs. The mall has just opened recently and thus does not contain much just yet, but it will indeed provide more services in the near future. Right now, there are restaurants available so drop by and feel the luxurious lifestyle.

  • Regular mall hours: 7AM to 10PM daily
  • Contact number: (032) 232-0085

5. Seaside Arena: Cebu’s largest indoor arena

Official render

Back around 2017, there were talks of making an arena in SRP but was foiled by politics. Now, Mayor Edgar Labella has brought back once again the idea of an arena back in October during his 100 Days of Service speech, to which he calls it the Seaside Arena.

It will have a seating capacity of 16,000 and is expected to be completed by 2025.

  • Groundbreaking date: January 29, 2020
  • Target completion date: 2025
  • Location: Near SM Seaside City Cebu

6. Isla dela Victoria: Cebu’s integrated casino-resort

Isla dela Victoria is a world-class development under construction on Kawit Island. It has been invested 25 billion pesos and is already approved by Mayor Edgar Labella. It will include restaurants, malls, casinos, parks, and more. Right now, it is the biggest project in SRP and will surely be an amazing sight to see.

  • Location: South Road Properties, Cebu City (near IL Corso)
  • Groundbreaking date: August 21, 2018
  • Target completion date: Q4, 2021

7. CCLEX: Cebu’s longest bridge

CCLEX CSCR on ramp & off ramp
CCLEX CSCR on ramp & off ramp

The P30-billion project which will beef up Cebu’s road network to provide motorists safe and comfortable travel experience, is also expected to help spur economic growth and boost investments not just in Cebu City and Cordova Municipality, but also in the entire Cebu Province and Visayas region.

Among the iconic features of CCLEX, which is envisioned to be among the landmarks in Cebu when finished in 2021, is a lighted cross on all four sides on top of the two 145-meter tall main pylons.

As of August 2020, the construction of the 8.5-kilometer Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) is halfway through for its 2021 completion target date.

  • Location: South Road Properties, Cebu City (near SM Seaside)
  • Groundbreaking date: January 8, 2018
  • Target completion date: Q4, 2021

Cascades Nature Park: Lush green paradise in Compostela

Make way for Compostela’s newest attraction!

Cascades Nature Park is a perfect mix of scenic natural landscapes and high-end amenities. Taking pride as Compostela’s largest outdoor venue for practically any event you can think of, Cascades Nature Park sure is gonna give your dream event a green touch.

They just had their soft opening last September 15, 2020, and while some of their amenities are still being finished, their pool and lake are already available for use.

Cascades Nature Park can cater to any large event – garden-themed weddings and reception, team buildings, concerts, debuts, and photoshoots – you name it! Over 6 hectares in size, Cascades Nature Park has a lot of amenities.

This includes an islet located in the center of a lake (perfect spot for exchanging of vows). You can go fishing in the lake or rent out a kayak, paddle board, canoe, or a pedal boat. They also have a 600-square meter swimming pool (one of the largest in Cebu) for pool lovers.

Amenities:

  • Huge swimming pool
  • Water Activities
    • Kayaks
    • Paddle Boards
    • 3-person canoe
    • Pedal Boat
  • Unique Island
    • Island in the middle of our Lake
    • Perfect stage for weddings, concerts, or performances
    • Seating surrounding the outside of the lake with a perfect view of the island
  • Large Open Fields
  • Bar and Grill
  • Games
    • Boche Ball
    • Volleyball (coming soon)
    • Soccer
    • Playing Cards
  • Big Lake with Fishing
    • Walking Path – 285 Meters around the Lake
    • Casitas and Cabanas
    • Central Island – The perfect stage for any event!
    • Water Activities
    • Fish include: Tilapia
  • Private Cabanas
    • Up to 10 People per Cabana. Good for Day use only; not valid for overnight stay.
  • Covered Facilities

Cascades Nature Park can be booked for exclusive events but non-exclusive reservations are accepted too.

Day passes are available for those who want to enjoy the amenities for a day. Take note that interested guests must make a reservation first before going to Cascades Nature Park. For now, they are limiting visitors to 150 at a time. Same-day reservations for daytime passes are also allowed.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

DAY USE:

  • Adults: P200 per head
  • Children: P160 per head (for children ages 3-12, seniors, PWDs)
  • 2 years old and below: FREE
  • Day pass entrance fees are inclusive of parking fee, tables and chairs, and use of all public facilities including the swimming pool and lake

COTTAGE FEES:

  • Casita (poolside or lakeside): P500 (good for 6 people; day use only)
  • Cabana: P1,000 (good for 10 people)
  • Shade tent: P250 (only for use in open field or lawn)

Other fees:

  • Kayak: P150/hour
  • Paddle board: P150/hour
  • Canoe: P200/hour
  • Fishing: P200/kilo (black tilapia); P450/kilo (orange tilapia); bring your own fishing poles.
  • Fish feeding: P10/bag

Note:

  • Outside food is allowed. But the management requires the visitors to take home and dispose their garbage properly. Guests are encouraged to bring their own trash bag.
  • Alcohol from outside are not allowed. You can buy at their bar.
  • Loud music in the pool or lake area is not allowed.
  • To make a reservation for weddings, corporate events, team buildings, concerts, and other celebrations, contact them with the links below.

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: St.Francis Subdiviision, Barangay Magay, Compostela, Northern Cebu — approx. 1.5 hours away from Cebu City.

BY COMMUTE: From SM City Cebu, you can ride:
– Vhire going to Danao ETT: 1 hour and 10 minutes Fare: ₱50
– Or jeep going to Danao (27 = Jeep Number) Fare: ₱20-25
…just tell the driver to drop you off at “Skina Buluang”.

From there, there are motorbikes or halal-habal and tricycles at the skina, tell them that you’re going to “Cascades Nature Park”. Fare is ₱10-20 per head.

BY CAR: Head on to Compostela and stop at Magay Elementary School. Right across the school is the St. Francis Subdivision. Enter the subdivision and drive straight through the pawn shop. Upon arriving at the pawn shop, make a left turn and you will see Cascades Nature Park.

LOOK: New premium black taxis in Cebu

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Have you seen those sleek black taxis roaming around Cebu?

Yes, you’ve heard it right. Taxis. Premium taxi service that are part of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

These premium taxis have started operating in Cebu to answer the need of riding in a safe, comfortable, and reliable public transport service. This program aims to provide a reasonably priced option with high-end safety and comfort features.

Black Taxis with Silver and Gold markings

Premium taxis are classified into two types: silver and gold. The color classification is determined by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in consideration to displacement or power rating, leg room, luggage compartment and many more.

Silver markings

Flagdown Rate: P50

Passengers:

  • 4 passengers for Sedan;
  • 6 passengers for Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPV); and
  • 7 passengers for Utility Vans (UV)

Gold markings

Flagdown Rate: P60

Passengers:

  • 4 passengers for both Sedan and Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV)
  • 7 passengers with pilot seats for the Utility Vans (Premium)

Modern Taxi Features

  • Free internet access for passengers,
  • Closed circuit television (CCTV)
  • On-board navigation system (GPS) or Global Mobile Satellite System (GMSS).
  • A ride-hailing service app (Grab, MiCab, Hirna, and Hype)
  • Dashboard and occupancy cameras with continuous recording of the past 24 hours of operation.

Score items for P199 at this Forever 21 branch in Cebu City

Now that more people are allowed to go out and more workers have reported back to the office, we may need new clothes or outfits to wear for different occasions. But with the pandemic going on, you might also be looking to shop for new stuff without spending too much.

Good news! SM City Cebu announced on its Facebook Page that Forever 21 – SM City Cebu is on End-of-Season sale where you can score fashion items for as low as P199.

Here are some photos posted from SM City Cebu FB Page:

Forever 21 at SM City Cebu is open from Mondays to Sundays, 10AM to 8PM, at the 2nd Level, The Northwing.

When going out, make sure to observe the following:

  • Quarantine pass or Certificate of Employment (COE) is required to enter the mall.
  • Must wear a face mask and face shield at all times.
  • Observe physical distancing.

Also don’t forget to wash your hands frequently and disinfect thoroughly as soon as you get home.

For orders and inquiries, you can contact them at (032) 520-2969 or 0936-106-9571. You can also order via SM City Cebu’s Pabili service: gosm.link/SMCC_PS_YourCityShopper

For updates, you can follow the official Facebook Page of SM City Cebu (Official).

https://www.facebook.com/smcitycebuofficial/posts/4753483954676597

Soon to rise: Medellin Airport

On their 138th Charter Anniversary in 2019, Mayor Joven Mondigo Jr. shared his dream for a better Medellin – a new airport that will open the gates of the town to more opportunities.

The town of Medellin is considered as the “sugar bowl” of Cebu. The town has been relying on farming as a source of revenue for years but they have also started to recognize their potential as an economic and industrial zone.

Although the main source of income for the locals in Medellin is sugar cane, their production has also started to decline and it has put them in a tight spot. The addition of an airport in Medellin will be able to help the town get back on its feet and also provide more opportunities for the locals with the possible increase in tourism and other jobs in the new airport.

They have already spent P3 million pesos to secure a 10-hectare lot in Brgy. Caputatan Sur to be the site where the airport will be. They have also earmarked P100 million for the construction of the new airport.

With the collaboration of Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Municipal Engineer and Assessor Office, the idea was put into action and is already underway.

Latest update

As of August 7, 2020, the runway components of the Medellin airport were already being finalized and constructions are to start in 2021. Additionally, there are also plans of erecting an aviation school within the property and it has already been allocated a budget of P12 million. 

https://www.facebook.com/medellin.cebu/posts/1647128625436416

With the construction of the new airport along with their new seaport, Medellin is expecting an influx of tourists, visitors, and business ventures to the town because it will make Medellin much more accessible from many places.

Opening the town to more people will not only bring the town a new source of income but it will also introduce more people to the wonders that Medellin has. It may even encourage many locals to stay and work in the comforts of their hometown instead of looking for other opportunities in faraway places.

RDC-7 approves CNU-VSMMC, Cebu’s first state-funded Medical School

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Every young, brilliant mind aspiring to be a doctor in Cebu now has the chance to fulfill that dream regardless of financial status.

Addressing the need for doctors in rural areas, the Cebu Normal University-Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (CNU-VSMMC) College of Medicine will be the first state-funded higher education institution offering a Doctor of Medicine degree in Central Visayas.

The proposed institution will provide free education to financially challenged but deserving students, offering them a 5-year double degree Doctor of Medicine Program with Masters in Public Health Governance. It will be situated inside the compound at the Medical Center’s Cancer Center of the VCMMC.

The Regional Development Council Central Visayas (RDC 7) has already approved the CNU-VSMMC College of Medicine, with the program planned to start on Academic Year 2021-2022 with 50 pioneering students.

“Allow the university to handle all academic aspects of the degree while the hospital will provide the training, instructions, and teaching support to the students.”- Evelyn Castro, SDC chairperson

The CNU and VSMMC entered into a consortium agreement following that:

CNU

  • Degree-granting institution
  • Approval, monitoring and evaluation of academic policies
  • Quality assurance in program implementation

VSMMC

  • Program implementation and other necessary operations
  • Provides teaching and non-teaching practitioners from their team of consultants
  • Provides physical plant and required facilities

The graduates will then be required to render five years of service to government health centers, especially the rural health units. In hopes that the degree holders will not only be competent in patient care but also as a transformative leader.

MyBus to only accept MyBus card cashless payment starting October

In compliance with the guidelines of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Infectious Diseases (IATF), MyBus shall utilize MyBus Card as the sole payment mode for bus fare effective October 1, 2020 (Thursday) for select routes.

These routes include:

  • October 1, 2020 for Route 1 (SM City Cebu-Parkmall to SM Seaside City-Maritima)
  • October 19, 2020 (Monday) for Route 2 (Talisay to SM Seaside City)
  • October 26, 2020 (Monday) for Route 3 (Talisay to Parkmall).

In preparation, MyBus stations are currently selling MyBus Cards and implementing a contactless reload procedure for MyBus cardholders while MyBus units are already accepting MyBus Card as payment mode, on top of the mandated minimum health standards for public transportation.

MyBus Card makes riding MyBus faster (skip the long payment line), safer (keep cash inside card), and easier (simply tap to pay and take a seat), as compared to paying for bus fare in cash.

Aside from paying for MyBus fare, MyBus Card can be also used to pay cashless at The SM Store and SM Supermarket in SM City Cebu, SM Hypermarket (Mandaue City), and in select SM Savemore Market branches.

Apart from MyBus stations, MyBus Card can be reloaded at Customer Service (inside The SM Store) and Mall Information Booth in SM City Cebu and SM Seaside City.

You can get the MyBus Card now for only PHP 120 (with PHP 50 load) at MyBus stations in SM City Cebu (North Wing Open Parking 2), SM Seaside City (Mountain Wing Entrance), and Talisay City (MyBus Depot).

Also read:

Pacific Cebu Resort: The gorgeous beach paradise in Mactan

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If you feel like every day you’re dragging yourself to work, to school or wherever it is, you indeed need a break. But this time, you deserve something different, grand, and better.

Here’s one of the perfect spots in Mactan, a sweet diversion for a stressful week by spending it at Pacific Resort Cebu.

Pacific Cebu Resort Mactan
Pacific Cebu Resort Mactan (1)

Located in Brgy. Suba-basbas, Mactan, Cebu, Pacific Resort Cebu offers a warm atmosphere and delightful cuisines to all local and foreign guests. Not just that, every corner of the resort seems perfect and Instagrammable (even their restrooms).

The sceneries, the furniture, the staff, the rooms — this place is a paradise. It is also perfect for weddings, family gatherings our reunions, corporate events, and other special occasions.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Day Use Rates:

  • Day use hours: 9:00AM – 7:00PM only
  • Day use fee: ₱1,300 per adult, ₱650 per child (4 to 8 y/o)
  • Inclusions: Bath towel, Facility fee (pool, beach, beach volley court, basketball court, tennis court (with ball racket), gym, kids room), lunch Mon to Fri (ALA CARTE) consumable of ₱500 Sat, Sun, Holiday (Buffet)

Room Rates:

  • Online booking
  • Standard Room: ₱5,700 per night, good for 2pax
  • Superior Room:  ₱6,500 per night, good for 3pax
  • Deluxe Garden:  ₱7,500 per night, good for 3pax
  • Deluxe Ocean View Room:  ₱11,000 per night, good for 3pax
  • Garden Villa:  ₱12,000 per night, good for 3pax
  • Spa Villa:  ₱16,000 per night, good for 3pax
  • Family Suite:  ₱17,000 per night, good for 6pax
  • Bunk Room:  ₱11,000 per night, good for 6pax
    • Inclusions: Breakfast for single and double occupancy, Breakfast for 6 for Family Suite
    • ₱1,700 per night per excess person with buffet breakfast
    • ₱1,800 per night per excess person with buffet breakfast during peak/high seasons
    • Rates are subject to change without prior notice
    • Check-in/out Time: 2:00pm / 12:00pm

Other Information

  • Operating hours: Open 24/7
  • Corkage Fee: ₱200 per kilo of food, 50% of total receipt for outside snacks, ₱300 per case on assorted drinks or beer, ₱1,500 whole lechon
  • Online booking
  • Contact numbers: (032) 459 6608 / (032) 495 6601
  • Email address: [email protected]
  • Social: Facebook Page

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Suba-basbas, Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan, Cebu — 1.5-2 hours away from Cebu City, 30 minutes away from Mactan Airport.

BY VAN: From SM City Cebu, ride a v-hire going to Lapu-Lapu City / Mactan. Tell the driver to drop you off to Brgy. Suba-basbas. Fare is approximately ₱35 (one-way). From there, ride a habal-habal or tricycle going to the resort.

BY CAR: If you’re driving your own car, just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and pin your location to “Pacific Cebu Resort” or refer to the map below. Parking space is available.

Treat yourself and have a break.

UNLIMITED Dimsum at Ding How for P288 until September 30

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Cebuanos are big fans of Dimsum food. There’s just something distinct about the food the Dimsum Break Group of restaurants offers in Cebu.

If you couldn’t wait for Ding Qua Qua to reopen, its affiliate Ding How Dimsum will save the day! Their Ayala Malls Central Bloc branch in Cebu IT Park offers All-You-Can-Eat on our dimsum favorites daily from 2PM to 7PM for only P288.

This offer is only valid for the whole of September, so you better not miss this treat!

Official Promo Poster

Ding How Dimsum is located at 2/F Ayala Malls Central Bloc in Cebu IT Park⁣, Apas, Cebu City.

When going out, make sure to observe the following:

  • Quarantine pass or COE is required to enter the mall.
  • Must wear a face mask and face shield at all times.
  • Observe physical distancing.

Also don’t forget to wash your hands frequently and disinfect thoroughly as soon as you get home.