Cebu City thrives with improved infrastructure, cultural growth

CEBU, often called the Queen City of the South, is undergoing significant infrastructure developments, highlighting its commitment to growth and sustainability.These projects span various sectors from transportation and education to environmental conservation and tourism, shaping Cebu into a dynamic and resilient city. Infrastructure advancements and economic impactCebu's infrastructure landscape is rapidly evolving with several key projects to enhance connectivity and urban development. The Cebu Provincial Government has recently approved phase 2 of the Santa Fe Port project on Bantayan Island. This initiative aims to enhance ecological preservation and boost tourism opportunities.The phase 2, costing over P110 million, includes the construction of a reinforced concrete deck with roll-on/roll-off facilities and gangway amenities for motorized boats. This upgrade addresses environmental concerns by allowing water and sand to flow naturally, preserving the island's allure. Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia has announced in June 2023 that the Cebu Port Authority approves the request of the Province of Cebu for the capitol to construct a new and environmentally friendly port in Santa Fe.The Port of Cebu facilitates the movement of goods and services not only within the Philippines but also to and from international destinations. The port's modern facilities and strategic location enhance Cebu's status as a key logistics hub in the region.In Tudela, around P13 million worth of infrastructure projects have been inaugurated, including a light-emitting diode wall and perimeter fence, enhancing public amenities and safety.Tudela Mayor Greman Solante praises the collaboration with the provincial government, noting improvements despite challenges in infrastructure development.Environmental sustainability initiativesCebu leads in environmental conservation through eco-friendly ordinances and restoration projects across the province. In northern Cebu, four local government units have passed eco-friendly ordinances, aimed at environmental protection.Third District Board Member John Ismael Borgonia has presented these ordinances from Consolacion, Carmen, Sogod and Danao City, emphasizing the need for environmental consciousness across all age groups.In Carmen, Ordinance 073 Series of 2024 mandates waste segregation at the source with penalties for violations, aiming to improve waste management at the household level. The municipality of Consolacion strengthens its Plastic Regulation Ordinance while Sogod bans single-use plastics under Ordinance 01-2024, targeting plastic waste reduction through reusable materials. Meanwhile, Danao City has introduced two significant ordinances: 20024-17-107 for wildlife conservation and 2024-17-110 to declare schools as pollution-free areas.Efforts to preserve cultural landmarks also contribute to environmental sustainability. Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority's increased funding of P100 million for the restoration of Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church in Sibonga aims not only to safeguard historical sites but also to promote cultural tourism. Garcia reaffirms the importance of preserving heritage, stating: "We will make everything look good. It's just a matter of extreme urgency."Cultural promotion and community developmentCebu's rich cultural heritage is celebrated through various initiatives that promote local arts, crafts and traditions. At the Cebu Provincial Capitol, a recent fashion show by Furne One Amato showcases garments made from indigenous Filipino fabrics, highlighting the province's vibrant textile heritage. This collection is a tribute to Filipino craftsmanship and cultural diversity.Amato presents the signature colors of the T'boli, the indigenous people of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. The runway has been adorned in black and red, showcasing the intricate and modern designs made from T'boli fabrics, accented with crystals and brass. This final segment celebrates the craftsmanship and mystique of Mindanao.Tourists planning to visit Bantayan Island are in for a treat as King Aces Travel and Tours Service Inc. (Kattsi) announces the commencement of regular flights from Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) to Bantayan Island Airport, starting in August this year.Retired army general Gilbert Llanto, along with officials from Prime Aces Holdings Corp. and Kattsi, has met with Garcia to finalize details for the inaugural flight on August 28. The flights will use avions de transport régional or regional transport airplanes with a 72-seat capacity. It will fly from MCIA to Bantayan and vice versa twice a week, on Fridays and Sundays, in time for the influx of tourists for the weekend.Llanto expresses excitement about the accessibility boost for tourists, aiming to promote Bantayan Island's natural beauty.Balancing cultural heritage with modernity, Cebu offers a unique blend of old and new. Historic sites such as Magellan's Cross and Fort San Pedro stand as testaments to the city's rich past while modern shopping malls, entertainment centers and dining establishments showcase its contemporary vibe. Sports and social welfareCebu has hosted the 64th Palarong Pambansa, marking a return after 30 years and showcasing the province's capability in organizing national sporting events. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. praises Cebu's hospitality and organization, highlighting the event's role in promoting unity and national pride among Filipino youth.Marcos says: "The Palarong Pambansa stands as the country's pinnacle of national sporting events. Today, we continue this important legacy, celebrating not just games but also the unity, camaraderie and national pride that these games inspire."The Palarong Pambansa, established by Republic Act 10588, is organized by the Department of Education, the Philippine Sports Commission and the Department of the Interior and Local Government. It aims to promote sportsmanship and unity among young Filipino athletes while allowing them to experience Cebu's rich culture and scenic beauty.Meanwhile, the Cebu Provincial Government is also investing in educational infrastructure, planning to construct two-story, six-classroom buildings for Cebu Normal University's extension campuses in Catmon, Alegria and Argao.Economic boom amid challengesDespite global economic uncertainties, Cebu has shown remarkable economic resilience. The city's economic landscape is marked by robust growth in sectors such as information technology (IT), business process outsourcing and tourism.The Cebu IT Park remains a key player, attracting multinational companies and generating employment for thousands of Cebuanos.Following Garcia's successful visit to Russia, Cebu anticipates enhanced business collaborations in sectors such as finance and environmental initiatives. Garcia holds a meeting with Russia-Association of Southeast Asian Nations Business Council Chairman Ivan Polyakov and discusses business opportunities in Cebu Province that the organization members may be interested in.Among these opportunities is to acquire or partner with local financial institutions to facilitate easier transactions for Russians when visiting the Philippines as tourists or traveling for business.Garcia has also met with a Russian environmental operator on waste management on the possibility of investing in a waste-to-energy venture in Cebu Province.Digital transformationGarcia also spearheads digital innovations in social welfare, implementing a quick-response (QR) code system to streamline assistance distribution. Secretary Rex Gatchalian of the Department of Social Welfare and Development commends Cebu's initiative, noting its effectiveness in reaching vulnerable communities and promoting transparency.The QR code system — implemented through programs such as Sugbo Negosyo and Dasig Sugbo — ensures transparent and graft-free distribution of social welfare benefits.Cebu is embracing digital transformation with advancements in technology, shaping various aspects of life in the city. The adoption of smart city initiatives, digital services and e-governance platforms is enhancing urban living and improving public services. The digitalization of industries from finance to retail is driving economic growth and innovation.Cebu's prospects appear bright. The city is poised for continued growth with ongoing infrastructure projects, a thriving economy and a resilient community. The local government's focus on sustainable development and innovation ensures that Cebu will remain a key player in the Philippines' economic landscape.