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Cebu’s AppleOne Enters Renewable Energy with Solar Farm Project in Mindanao

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Astronergy’s first project is a solar farm in Zamboanga del Norte spanning about 25 hectares and equipped with 10,000 solar panels.

Cebu-based AppleOne Group has entered the renewable energy sector with the launch of Astronergy, a new subsidiary focused on solar power generation.

Astronergy’s first project is a solar farm in Zamboanga del Norte spanning about 25 hectares and equipped with 10,000 solar panels.

The facility is expected to produce 7 megawatts (MW) of direct current in its initial phase and supply power to the regional grid under a power purchase agreement with Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative Inc. (ZANECO).

Now in the testing and commissioning stage, the solar farm is slated to be fully operational by September 2025.

AppleOne plans to expand capacity to 20–25 MW in future phases and connect to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to serve both regional and inter-island electricity demand.

“We’ve always been deliberate in where we grow the business,” said AppleOne Group President and CEO Ray Manigsaca. “Energy is a natural next step for us. We saw an opportunity to add value to our communities and support the country’s energy transition.”

The venture aligns with the Philippine government’s efforts to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and strengthen energy self-sufficiency.

A recent report from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) underscored the need to accelerate domestic renewable energy development to ensure long-term grid stability and affordability.

Beyond energy production, the project is expected to generate regional economic benefits including job creation and improved power reliability for local communities.

Zamboanga del Norte was selected for its available land, access to transmission lines, and scalability. While the current output is committed to ZANECO, AppleOne is exploring joint ventures and foreign partnerships to expand its renewable energy portfolio nationwide.

AppleOne is known for real estate and hospitality projects such as Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort and Mahi Center. Its entry into energy is part of a broader strategy to invest in sectors with long-term economic and social impact.

“Reliable power transforms how communities grow, how businesses operate, and how people live,” Manigsaca said. “That’s the kind of future we want to help build.”

CebuBusinessNews.ph

GIP to Acquire 40% stake in MCIA Owner Aboitiz InfraCapital

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Mactan Cebu International Airport, a portfolio company of Aboitiz InfraCapital. Photo: CebuBusinessNews.ph

Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), an infrastructure investment unit of BlackRock, is in advanced talks to acquire a 40% stake in Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC), the infrastructure arm of Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc (AEV), according to a disclosure.

The planned transaction, subject to due diligence and regulatory approvals, marks one of the largest foreign equity investments in Philippine infrastructure in recent years.

The strategic partnership underscores increased international investor interest in the country’s infrastructure sector, with both parties citing the potential to expand and modernize essential services.

AIC owns and operates assets in airports, water, economic estates, and telecommunications infrastructure.

The deal was discussed during a meeting in the United States between Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Aboitiz Group President and CEO Sabin Aboitiz, and GIP Chairman and CEO Bayo Ogunlesi.

“This collaboration marks a strong vote of confidence in the Philippines’ future. With global partners like GIP working alongside respected Filipino firms such as Aboitiz, we can build infrastructure that is more resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking,” President Marcos said in a statement.

AIC’s portfolio includes the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Laguindingan International Airport, and Bohol-Panglao International Airport. The firm also has holdings in bulk water supply projects, industrial estates, and telecom towers.

Its portfolio in Cebu also includes two industrial estates: the 63-hectare MEZ2 Estate in Lapu-Lapu City and the 540-hectare West Cebu Estate (WCE) in Balamban, home to shipbuilding and heavy industries.

MEZ2 Estate hosts 44 locators with a workforce of 14,000, while WCE accommodates 17 global firms employing over 14,000 skilled workers.

Both estates hold 5-Star BERDE District Certification, marking them as the first in Visayas and Mindanao to receive this recognition for sustainable industrial development.

“We are honored to explore this opportunity with Global Infrastructure Partners,” said Aboitiz. “Our shared vision of modern, world-class infrastructure aligns with the country’s ambitions for progress.”

GIP, which manages over $183 billion in assets, has a track record of investing in transport, energy, digital infrastructure, and utilities. Ogunlesi said the partnership would allow GIP to support the Philippines’ infrastructure growth and deliver services that benefit local communities.

The companies did not disclose the expected valuation or timeline for completion.

CebuBusinessNews.ph

Cebu City Eyes 24/7 LTO Office, Night Shift Transport Routes with DoTr

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Cebu City BPO
Cebu City Vice Mayor Tommy Osmeña and DoTr Secretary Vince Dizon. Photo: Tommy Osmeña's Facebook page.

Cebu City Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña said the city is working with the Department of Transportation (DoTr) to open a 24/7 Land Transportation Office (LTO) branch and develop public transit routes catering to night shift workers.

“Yesterday, I had the great opportunity to speak one on one with Sec. Vince Dizon of the Department of Transportation,” Osmeña said in a social media post. “In addition to the BRT, we spoke at length about the initiative known as ‘Mayor of the Night.’”

Osmeña said Cebu City could become the first in the country to operate an LTO office round the clock.

The one-stop shop, which may also include services from other national agencies such as the Social Security System (SSS) and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), is planned to open near IT Park to serve workers in the BPO sector and other night industries.

“We are working on bringing on board other national agencies such as SSS and the NBI as well. The first one-stop shop will be opened just across IT Park, where it can benefit many people who work at night,” he said.

Osmeña added that Transportation Secretary Dizon has offered support in establishing new public transit routes tailored for night shift workers.

“In addition, Sec. Dizon has graciously offered to help Cebu City establish new public transit routes specific to those who work night shifts,” he said. “The City Government is currently working with the barangays and major employers to collect data to determine where the new routes would be most effective.”

The plans are part of the city’s broader efforts to improve mobility and access to government services for workers outside standard business hours.

CebuBusinessNews.ph

Cebu Gov Baricuatro Probes Mother, Infant Death Amid Hospital Transfer

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Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro. Photo: Cebu Capitol PIO

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro said her administration is investigating the death of a mother and her newborn while in transit from Carcar Provincial Hospital to Talisay Hospital, as she appealed for public understanding amid calls for accountability.

“It’s heartbreaking what happened to the mother about to give birth and the infant who passed away while on their way to Talisay Hospital from Carcar Provincial Hospital. We are currently investigating the incident, and I want to assure everyone that we are taking this matter seriously,” Baricuatro said in a statement.

The incident has drawn public criticism over the quality of healthcare services in the province.

Baricuatro said her administration was not given a transition period and inherited a “neglected” healthcare system.

“My sincere appeal to the public is not to assign blame to my governance and administration at this early stage. Please understand that we were not given a transistion period and we inherited a healthcare system that has been neglected,” she said.

Baricuatro said she has already started releasing funds for district hospitals to procure medicines and supplies, and has initiated the hiring of additional medical personnel.

“In just 23 days as your governor, I’ve already started taking steps — releasing funds for district hospitals to purchase much-needed medications & supplies, and the immediate hiring of doctors, nurses and medical staff,” she said.

“Change doesn’t happen overnight, but I am committed to making things better for our community. I ask for your patience, understanding, and support as we work tirelessly to improve our healthcare system and prevent such tragedies in the future. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier province. Thank you,” Baricuatro added.

No official report has been released detailing the cause of death or the delay in emergency care. The Department of Health in Central Visayas said it is coordinating with local officials on the matter.

CebuBusinessNews.ph

Aboitiz Construction, BEST Launch Welding Training Program for Cebu Scholars

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Aboitiz Construction
Aboitiz Construction Partners with BEST to Train Cebu Scholars in Welding Courses

Aboitiz Construction, in collaboration with Aboitiz Foundation and Balamban Extensive Skills and Technology, Inc. (BEST), has launched a technical training program in welding for 11 scholars in Cebu, the company said in a statement.

The initiative offers courses in Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and aims to equip participants with TESDA-recognized certifications to enhance their employment prospects in the construction sector.

Scholars who complete the program may be deployed to Aboitiz Construction’s maintenance sites.

Karmine Andrea Ching, Senior Assistant Vice President for Business Transformation at Aboitiz Construction, said the program is designed not only to provide skills training but also to improve access to employment in the industry.

Romelito Mantuhac, President of BEST, said the partnership highlights the importance of collaboration in supporting workforce development and economic growth.

The program is part of Aboitiz Construction’s broader workforce development efforts.

Earlier this year, 13 scholars in Bukidnon completed Pipefitting Metallic NC II training in partnership with Maces Training Institute, with graduates set to be deployed to a site in Surigao del Norte.

Aboitiz Construction is the construction arm of the Aboitiz Group, operating across industrial, infrastructure, and maintenance sectors.

CebuBusinessNews.ph

Primeworld Land Expands Into Hotels With Hilton Garden Inn in Cebu

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Primeworld
Primeworld CEO Sherwin Uy

Primeworld Land Holdings Inc. is adding a hotel to its flagship township project in Mactan, Cebu, with the planned development of a Hilton Garden Inn as it expands its footprint in the Visayas.

Primeworld CEO Sherwin Uy said the company has partnered with Hilton to build a 151-room hotel within the 4.5-hectare Primeworld District in Barangay Agus. The hotel, targeted for completion in 2028, will be the firm’s first venture into hospitality.

“We don’t have beachfront access, but we’ve created a resort-living environment with pools and amenities,” Uy said. “Having a hotel elevates the community we’re building and benefits our investors.”

The hotel will rise alongside the township’s residential towers. Primeworld recently launched the third tower of its 10-story condominium development, adding 328 units. Two towers have been completed and turned over. The full master plan includes eight residential buildings.

“Cebu has the best airport. There is definitely a market here,” Uy said, citing Mactan’s draw for leisure and long-term stays.

In Cebu City, the company will begin turnover next month of Primeworld Point, a 22-story condominium in Lahug with 386 units. It also plans to launch Primeworld Pinnacle, a 30-story project with around 500 units on V. Rama Avenue in Guadalupe, later this year.

Primeworld plans to launch four projects in 2025, including new developments in Cebu, alongside ongoing projects in Bulacan and Tarlac.

CebuBusinessNews.ph

Aboitiz-led Advisory Council Backs E-Governance Act, Streamlined Infra Approvals

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Aboitiz
Sabin M. Aboitiz (left), lead convenor of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) and CEO of Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) in conversation with Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) President Jay Yuvallos during the “Investment Forum,” as part of the Cebu Business Month (CBM 2025) event held at Nustar Cebu.

The business advisory council to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is urging faster digitisation of government services and a fundamental overhaul of infrastructure approvals as part of a pragmatic approach to tackling corruption and inefficiencies in the Philippine bureaucracy.

Sabin M. Aboitiz, lead convenor of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) and CEO of Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) , laid out the council’s reform priorities during the “Investment Forum,” as part of the Cebu Business Month (CBM 2025) event held at Nustar Cebu, Wednesday.

Addressing concerns raised by co-Cebuano entrepreneur Bunny Pages over persistent corruption and concentration of wealth, Aboitiz signalled that the council’s strategy hinges on solution-driven policymaking rather than broad accusations.

“We haven’t told the President directly that corruption exists, but we know he’s aware and committed to addressing it,” Aboitiz said. “Our focus is on actionable reforms—digitisation is one of the most effective structural tools to reduce corruption.”

According to Aboitiz center to the council’s agenda is the proposed E-Governance Act, which would mandate digital transformation across all government agencies under a fixed timeline.

The bill aims to enhance transparency and reduce bureaucratic discretion—widely seen as a key driver of rent-seeking behavior.

“Digitization removes layers of manual processing, which is where most inefficiencies and opportunities for corruption thrive,” Aboitiz said. “With the right systems in place, we can reduce human discretion, improve accountability, and deliver services faster.”

PSAC, composed of 32 chief executives across various industries, meets regularly with President Marcos and key cabinet officials. Aboitiz underscored that the council avoids presenting issues without offering corresponding policy solutions.

“It’s not helpful to simply highlight problems. We aim to bring forward recommendations grounded in industry experience and field data.”

Beyond digitisation, Aboitiz also flagged the need to streamline approvals for nationally significant infrastructure projects, particularly in the energy and logistics sectors.

PSAC is pushing for regulatory reforms that would bypass local government unit (LGU) approvals for projects deemed critical to national development—such as transmission lines.

“If you’re building a national transmission line and have to secure approvals from every LGU it crosses, delays are inevitable,” he said, adding that removing that layer for national projects is essential to reduce friction and prevent localised rent-seeking.

This approach marks a shift in how the private sector engages with government—moving from passive advocacy to more direct policy collaboration, Aboitiz added.

CebuBusinessNews.ph

Philippines Faces Surge in NFC-Based Fraud – Resecurity

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Resecurity
Photo by Philipp Katzenberger on Unsplash.

The Philippines is facing a sharp rise in near-field communication (NFC)-based fraud driven by sophisticated Chinese cybercriminal groups, cybersecurity firm Resecurity said, warning the surge threatens the integrity of the country’s fast-growing digital payments ecosystem.

In a report, Resecurity said dark web activity linked to Chinese actors targeting the Philippine financial system rose 230% in the second quarter of 2025 from a year earlier, as attackers exploited vulnerabilities in contactless payment platforms such as GCash, Maya, and BDO Pay.

Cybercriminals are using Host Card Emulation (HCE) and tools like Z-NFC and Track2NFC to simulate contactless card transactions with stolen data, bypassing authentication protocols.

Fraudulent point-of-sale (POS) terminals equipped with eSIMs have processed up to $80,000 in daily illicit payments, the report said.

The firm traced many attacks to Chinese crime syndicates like the “Smishing Triad,” which operate via Crime-as-a-Service models.

Tools, phishing kits, and stolen Philippine-issued card data are distributed through Telegram bots including “Panda Shop” and “Hulk Vault.” One underground shop listed over 7,700 compromised cards issued by Philippine banks.

The report also highlighted increased collaboration between foreign cybercriminals and local operators, who recruit money mules to set up fake businesses or install rogue POS devices in retail and food outlets, facilitating the covert movement of stolen funds.

With a digital fraud rate of 13.4%—150% above the global average, according to TransUnion—Resecurity urged regulators and financial institutions to adopt behavioral analytics, tighten merchant verification, and expand threat intelligence sharing.

The firm warned that current cybersecurity defenses are struggling to keep up with the rapid evolution of NFC-related fraud, potentially eroding trust in digital payments and posing broader risks to the Philippine financial system.

Cebu Business News

SSS Cracks Down on Camotes Firms

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The Social Security System (SSS) has moved to enforce stricter compliance across Camotes Island, Cebu, targeting 12 business establishments in San Francisco and Poro for failing to fulfill their statutory obligations under the Social Security Act of 2018.

The campaign, led by SSS Acting Vice President for Visayas Central 1 Division Eric A. Coronado, forms part of the agency’s Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) program.

Notices of violation were issued to the non-compliant establishments, with the SSS pressing for immediate rectification to secure the welfare of 45 registered employees.

“As tourism fuels economic momentum in Camotes Island, the SSS is stepping in to ensure that social protection keeps pace with growth,” Coronado said.

Preliminary findings show that most of the violators operate within the island’s food and leisure sector—businesses that have been in operation for an average of five years and collectively employ over 40 workers.

The broader Camotes area hosts 111 registered employers across its four municipalities, covering a total workforce of 714.

Coronado underscored the need for greater accountability within the island’s hospitality-driven economy, saying the RACE campaign aims to “promote responsible business practices and ensure sustained operations with adequate protection for member-employees.”

In parallel with enforcement, the SSS extended mobile services to the island through its E-Wheels program.

Over 100 residents from Barangay Consuelo and surrounding areas in San Francisco availed themselves of services such as account verifications, records updating, and digital access support including password resets.

“Our two-day deployment saved residents the cost and inconvenience of traveling to SSS offices in Poro or Danao City,” Coronado noted.

Camotes Island, located roughly 75 kilometers east of Cebu City, is composed of the municipalities of Poro, San Francisco, Tudela, and Pilar.

Its growing tourism and service economy has drawn increased scrutiny from regulators aiming to safeguard worker welfare in emerging tourism destinations.

Cebu Business News

Primer Group Targets Gen Z with Shopping App

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Primer Group

The Primer Group of Companies, a major Philippine lifestyle retailer and distributor, is ramping up its presence in Visayas and Mindanao and preparing to launch a dedicated digital shopping app, as it targets the country’s growing base of millennial and Gen Z consumers with evolving spending habits.

Jimmy Thai, chief executive officer (CEO) and co-founder of Primer Group, said the company remains bullish on the domestic retail landscape, driven by rising discretionary spending, particularly among younger, tech-savvy consumers.

“There’s strong momentum in offline sales, but the fastest growth is now coming from online,” Thai said in an interview.

“We are preparing to launch an omni-channel platform that complements our physical store footprint, especially in areas where mall penetration remains limited,” he added.

Currently, around 55 percent of Primer’s retail footprint is concentrated in Metro Manila, while 45 percent lies outside.

The company aims to tilt this balance by investing in emerging urban centers in the Visayas and Mindanao regions and enhancing its logistics and digital infrastructure to better serve non-metro consumers.

While e-commerce is becoming increasingly vital, Thai noted that brick-and-mortar stores remain key revenue generators.

“In terms of contribution, offline sales still take the lion’s share,” he said, reiterating that growth is undeniably coming from online channels, especially with the new generation of consumers who are more mobile, discerning, and brand-conscious.

Founded in 1985, the Primer Group of Companies has evolved into a regional powerhouse with a portfolio of over a dozen international brands across Southeast Asia, and more than 100 key brands in the Philippines alone.

The group is behind the distribution and retail of labels such as The North Face, Columbia, DC Shoes, Herschel, Delsey, and FitFlop, among others.

Primer also operates concept and incubation stores like “The Travel Club,”which curates travel and lifestyle products under a single roof.

“We are promoting outdoor living as a new lifestyle,” said Thai, adding that categories such as sportswear, trail and hiking gear, and functional fashion are converging. “There’s a thin line now between running and hiking shoes. Sportswear and outdoor gear are starting to crisscross.”

New footwear categories and recent distribution deals—such as with Converse and Mizuno—further strengthen Primer’s growing sports and performance segment.

Commenting on growing scrutiny over global brands sourcing from China, Thai noted that Primer evaluates potential partners based not on their manufacturing origin but on brand values. “There’s no bias in the origin. We look at the philosophy of the brand—its sustainability, innovation, and identity,” he said.

Among Primer’s wholly owned brands is Sledgers, a French-born footwear label founded in 1921.

In line with its push to reinvigorate legacy brands, Primer recently unveiled a redesigned Sledgers store at Ayala Center Cebu—marking two decades since the brand first entered the City.

The new store concept draws inspiration from classic gentlemen’s lounges, featuring sleek design and curated collections aimed at younger consumers.

“We want to modernize the Sledgers brand while retaining its classic European roots,” Thai said. “This is part of our strategy to refresh heritage brands and make them more relevant to today’s market.”

Other brands under Primer’s direct portfolio include World Traveler, Trek, BackJoy, and several in-house outdoor and lifestyle labels, many of which are incubated in multi-brand concept stores before being spun off into standalone shops.

Primer’s regional ambition stretches beyond Philippine borders. With distribution networks across Southeast Asia, the company is positioning itself as a platform for lifestyle innovation in tropical markets.

“We are building not just retail channels, but a lifestyle ecosystem. One that’s agile, experience-driven, and anchored in what Asian consumers want,” Thai said.

As digital infrastructure improves and younger consumers become more influential in shaping brand strategies, Primer’s hybrid retail model—with its combination of incubation stores, digital platforms, and regional reach—could serve as a blueprint for modern retail growth in Southeast Asia.

Cebu Business News 

National University Launches Cebu Campus

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Johanna Minglana Executive / Administrative Director, NU Cebu

National University (NU), a member of the SM Group and one of the Philippines’ oldest private universities, has officially opened its 13th campus in the country—and its first in Central Visayas—as it marks its 125th anniversary and ramps up its regional expansion.

Strategically located in the North Wing of SM City Cebu, NU Cebu spans over 25,000 square meters across six levels and is designed to accommodate up to 14,000 students. The campus represents a significant investment in the region’s education sector and supports NU’s goal of providing accessible, affordable, and industry-relevant education outside Metro Manila.

NU Cebu Executive Director Johanna Minglana said thousands of students have already enrolled in the newly opened campus. “We aim to provide quality education that is responsive to both the career aspirations of students and the needs of local industries,” she said. “Our course offerings are based on what students in Cebu are interested in, derived from an extensive market and student preference survey.”

NU Cebu currently offers an industry-aligned Senior High School program and undergraduate degrees in Accountancy, Architecture, Computer Science, Tourism Management, Psychology, and Medical Technology. Minglana noted that more programs are in the pipeline and will be added over the next few years, aligned with market trends and regional economic needs.

All faculty and staff are locally hired, and instructors are qualified based on Commission on Higher Education (CHED) standards, ensuring academic excellence across disciplines. This local hiring approach also reflects NU’s commitment to investing in Cebu’s professional and educational community.

As part of the SM Group, NU Cebu adopts the SM model of operational excellence and customer service, enhancing the student experience within a vibrant commercial setting. The partnership between education and retail opens opportunities for real-world learning through internships and potential industry collaborations.

Branded as the home of the “CebuaNU Bulldogs,” NU Cebu is more than just an academic institution. It aims to foster a values-driven academic environment grounded in discipline, hard work, and social responsibility—principles that define the Nationalian identity.

Founded in 1900, National University has grown into a multi-campus institution nationwide. The Cebu campus is the latest milestone in NU’s long-term strategy to build inclusive academic hubs in key regional cities, nurturing the next generation of Filipino professionals and leaders.

Cebu Business News

Cebu real estate sector urges newly elected officials to act on reform pledges

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Anthony O. Leuterio, president of A Better Real Estate Philippines (ABREP) and founder of property platform Filipino Homes.

Cebu’s real estate industry has called on newly elected local government officials to fulfill their campaign promises and address longstanding governance issues, as pressure mounts for reforms to drive economic growth.

Anthony O. Leuterio, president of A Better Real Estate Philippines (ABREP) and founder of Filipino Homes, said public expectations are rising for meaningful outcomes following the recent elections.

Leuterio urged local leaders to focus on systemic reforms such as universal healthcare and shift away from short-term financial aid programs like “ayuda” toward more sustainable economic initiatives. He also proposed the formation of an entrepreneurship committee to support small businesses and startups through training and access to capital.

He said stronger collaboration between the private sector and the government is necessary to create jobs and facilitate economic expansion. Leuterio also called for improved coordination between Cebu City and the Province to align development efforts.

In addition, Leuterio voiced support for the P20 rice subsidy program as a way to ease food insecurity among low-income families.

He highlighted tourism as a key area for investment, describing it as an underused national resource. Leuterio said enhanced promotional campaigns could help the Philippines generate revenues comparable to regional tourism leaders like Thailand and Vietnam.

His comments reflect growing demand from the business sector for newly installed officials to prioritize inclusive economic policies and strengthen the country’s competitiveness in the region.

CebuBusinessNews.ph

SM Supermalls Expands First-in-Cebu Dining Concepts Across Its Malls

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SM Supermalls is introducing a wave of first-in-Cebu dining experiences across its properties in the city, bringing in Michelin-recognized brands, globally renowned restaurants, and local culinary favorites as part of its effort to elevate Cebu’s food scene.

At SM Seaside City Cebu, one of the largest retail complexes in the Visayas, recent additions include Italian restaurant Cibo and Taiwanese chain Lugang Café. These join earlier international names such as Hawker Chan and Tim Ho Wan, both of which have received recognition from the Michelin Guide.

SM JMall is also expanding its culinary footprint with the Cebu debut of Hoshino Coffee, a Japanese café known for hand-drip coffee and soufflé pancakes, and Yakiniku Like, a solo-dining grill concept from Japan. The mall will also house Twist & Buckle, a churro specialist brand listed in the Michelin Guide for three consecutive years.

At SM City Cebu, the locally founded ABACA Baking Company has opened its first café concept within an SM mall, offering handcrafted pastries and Cebuano-rooted coffee blends. The mall will also see the launch of a Starbucks branch that incorporates native Filipino design elements—marking the brand’s first store of this kind in the country.

In the coming weeks, more brands are expected to open their first Cebu locations, including Ooma and Manam from The Moment Group, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse, and Nagi Izakaya. These additions are part of a broader strategy to offer diverse dining options that appeal to both local preferences and global trends.

SM Supermalls said the new offerings aim to cater to Cebu’s evolving lifestyle, providing options for solo diners, families, and food enthusiasts seeking both convenience and high-quality cuisine. – Cebu Business News

Philippine Airlines revitalizes pilot training with Airways Aviation partnership

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Philippine Airlines
Philippine Airlines Relaunches PAL Aviation School, Partners with Airways Aviation

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is set to relaunch its PAL Aviation School as a premier training hub for aspiring pilots, forging a strategic partnership with the globally renowned Airways Aviation Group.

The collaboration aims to deliver best-in-class pilot training, reinforcing PAL’s long-standing commitment to operational excellence, safety, and workforce development.

Following a rigorous evaluation, Airways Aviation’s Australia-based training academy was selected for its proven track record in providing high-quality, internationally recognized pilot training programs.

This partnership underscores PAL’s dedication to ensuring its cadets receive consistent, world-class instruction that adheres to the highest global aviation standards.

“Airways Aviation met our stringent requirements and demonstrated their robust emphasis on safety culture and competency-based training methodologies,” stated PAL President and Chief Operating Officer Capt. Stanley K. Ng. “We value the importance of in-house training in shaping pilots with a global outlook, armed with the exceptional skills and innovative spirit required to meet the challenges of the future.”

PAL OIC Executive Vice President – General Counsel Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez emphasized the broader vision, saying, “Our revitalized Aviation School will help develop this vital workforce: individuals who are not only outstanding in their craft but also globally minded citizens committed to building a sustainable future for aviation. This meaningful collaboration with Airways Aviation draws from the deep well of expertise and shared commitment to excellence that both our organizations are known for.”

The partnership also signifies a significant step in strengthening educational and training ties between the Philippines and Australia, bolstering both nations’ roles in cultivating a safer, more skilled, and resilient global aviation workforce.

Romy Hawatt, Founder and Chairman of Airways Aviation Group, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are honoured to be selected as the official training provider for the next generation of Philippine Airlines pilots. This partnership is not only a recognition of our global training capabilities but a testament to the shared values and vision that bind our two organizations. Together, we are investing in the future of aviation.”

Philippine Airlines has reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing local talent by integrating local investment with global best practices, ensuring its pilots are equipped to operate with the utmost safety and professionalism.

Janet Dalby, CEO Australasia and Pacific, Airways Aviation Group, added, “Our goal is to create a seamless, globally connected training experience that benefits cadets and the broader industry.

This collaboration allows us to support Philippine Airlines with the latest in aviation education technology, while also contributing to national workforce development objectives in the Philippines.”

Mr. Hawatt further highlighted the strategic nature of the alliance: “This is more than a training programme; it’s a strategic alliance built on trust, ambition, and a shared commitment to aviation excellence and sustainability.”

The initial cohort of cadets will begin their Foundation training and undergo assessment and selection processes in the Philippines. They will then proceed to Airways Aviation’s Australian campuses for further aviation theory and practical training, benefiting from comprehensive instruction delivered by expert faculty, industry-leading technology, and hands-on practical experience.

Cebu Business News

Aboitiz Infracapital gears up for expansion of Cebu airport

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Aboitiz Infracapital Cebu Airport Corp.
Photo by Anna Gru on Unsplash.

Aboitiz Infracapital Cebu Airport Corp. (ACAC), the operator of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), is actively pursuing expansion plans to accommodate the airport’s increasing passenger volume and to solidify Cebu’s position as a key gateway for both tourism and commerce.

ACAC is collaborating with Ricondo, an aviation consulting firm, to develop a comprehensive master plan for the airport’s future development.

The initiatives under consideration include expanding airport capacity and optimizing operations through the integration of advanced technologies.

Mactan-Cebu Airport Authority (MCIAA) General Manager Julius G. Neri expressed confidence that the master plan will set new benchmarks in airport development, paving the way for MCIA to become a global leader in air travel.

The expansion is a strategic response to the growing demand for air travel to and from Cebu, a major economic and tourism hub in the Philippines.

Cebu Business News

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