ILOILO CITY: Development and Tourism

SM plans to build Park Inn by Radisson in Iloilo

2016-09-13T09:46:00.000+08:00

SM Prime Holdings Inc. might start the construction of Park Inn by Radisson hotel soon (4th phase of their project) here in Iloilo City after the completion of their 3rd phase project which is the twin tower BPO building beside Injap tower.

Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo will be a 150-room hotel which will reportedly rise at the back of SM City Iloilo adjacent to SM Southpoint Dining Strip. It is seen to complement the mall and keep up with the booming hotel industry in the city.

MORE UPDATE COMING UP SOON!

First Solar Plant in Western Visayas Inaugurated

2016-09-09T23:09:00.001+08:00

The first solar power plant established in the province of Iloilo and the entire Panay and Guimaras islands was formally inaugurated on last Thursday September 8, 2016.

Governor Arthur Defensor Sr was joined by Miag-ao Mayor Macario Napulan in gracing the inauguration of the 5.67 megawatt solar power plant of Cosmo Solar Energy Inc. (CSEI) in Brgy. Narat-an, Miag-ao.

CSEI President and Chief Executive Officer Rodolfo Golez, Jr. said the power plant, albeit small and startup, embodies the realization of a dream and the Filipino spirit of passion, craftsmanship and hard work.

He said the project was conceptualized in 2012 and with the help and support of the local government of Miag-ao and the province of Iloilo it has come to reality.

Golez recalled that they have encountered many hindrances along the way but because of the encouragement from Defensor and his business partners, he was able to overcome the obstacles.

Defensor thanked Golez and his group for investing in renewable energy in the province. He said solar power plants are a big help in addressing climate change.

Napulan also thanked CSEI for choosing the municipality of Miag-ao as the site of their project.
He said their municipality is proud to host the first ever solar power plant in this part of the country.

Golez disclosed that they have invested PHP745 million for the establishment of the solar power plant which sits on a 15-hectare property in Miag-ao.

He said CSEI is also planning to put up another solar power plant in the adjacent property which is already part of the town of San Joaquin.

Golez said the second phase intends to provide an additional 6.5 MW of solar power into the national grid.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded CSEI with a 25-year solar energy contract for the development of the facility.

Construction of 9.1 Trillion Euros "High Speed Bullet Train" to the Philippines will be funded by European Leaders

2016-08-13T17:33:00.001+08:00

Filipinos travelling to the provinces and relying on an airplane and a passenger ship are a thing of the past. Another alternative means of modern transportation is the planned construction of a "High-Speed Bullet Train" that can be used once it has been placed on the entire Philippine Archipelago.

A budget of 9.1 Trillion Euros is being allocated by the European Leaders to become a bullet train line system a reality for the Filipino people that will connect Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

The entire construction of the railway line system including the bullet train will be financed by the European Financial Intermediary, this is according to Retired Colonel Rodrigo Bonifacio.

High Speed Rail (HSR) delivers fast, efficient transportation. Commuters can save time, energy and money. HSR is extremely reliable and operates in all weather conditions. HSR is not subject to congestion, so it operates on schedule everyday without delay especially during rush hour and peak travel times.

HSR spurs the revitalization of cities by encouraging high density, mixed-use real estate development around the stations. HSR also fosters economic development in second-tier cities along train routes. HSR link cities together into integrated regions that can then function as a single stronger economy. HSR also expands visitor markets and tourism while increasing visitor spending.

Better connectivity now at Iloilo Airport

2016-08-13T12:35:00.004+08:00

The Iloilo Airport now promises better digital connectivity for travelers with the upgrade provided by PLDT and Smart Communications, a wireless subsidiary.

A press release from Smart said that this firing up of Smart Wifi will significantly improve the digital experience of travelers using the airport terminal.

With a bandwidth of up to 1 gigabit per second, Wifi users will have the best customer experience whether surfing the web or keeping connected with home or office while on travel.

“In this digital age, data connectivity is important. Especially when one is on the go,” said Eric r. Alberto, EVP for PLDT/Smart and President and CEO, ePLDT,

“With Smart Wifi, travelers get to enjoy a seamless digital experience for more productive and meaningful journeys,” Alberto added.

The installation of Smart Wifi in the Iloilo Airport came in the heels of similar events in Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City, Misamis Oriental’s Laguindingan Airport and Bacolod City’s Silay International Airport.

The Iloilo, Bacolod, Laguindingan and Davao airports are among the key transport hubs identified for the installation of Smart Wifi to bring the internet into the hands of more Filipinos all over the country.

“A tourist’s impression of a country is largely based on the first and last experience of his destination,” said Department of Transportation Undersecretary Roberto Lim during the deployment in Davao City’s airport.

He added that Smart Wifi contributes to improving this experience and the success of having them come and visit again.

The Iloilo airport is the country’s fourth busiest airport and is regarded as one of the most beautiful airports, serving the provinces of Iloilo and Guimaras as well as the general area of Panay Island, and is an alternative gateway to the Manila-NAIA and Mactan-Cebu International Airports.

Smart Wifi will also be expanded to cover more public areas, like city halls, schools, hospitals, and establishments such as malls, restaurants, and coffee shops, amidst the increasing demand for more wifi hotspots in the country.

“Smart” metering soon to be available in Iloilo City

2016-08-02T22:31:00.000+08:00

Soon,Panay Electric Company (PECO), which holds the franchise to distribute power in this city, will soon be embarking on “smart” metering. “Accurate reading of meter readers has always been a contention between the consumer and the utility,” said Randy Pastolero, assistant vice president of PECO.

With the proposed automated metering scheme project, the reading of the meter will be done electronically right at the PECO office. It also has the capability to auto-reconnect and auto-disconnect without going to the site, he explained.

The project is spread in seven years and in 10 years PECO is planning to acquire 50,000 new meters.

Part of the project also is the prepaid metering that will work similar to prepaid cards used by telecommunication networks.

The plan as he cited the electric utility’s efforts on improving the “reliability” of its service.

It now has a usable capacity of 137 megawatts as against the peak demand of Iloilo City that happens only during the hottest period of the year, which is 107 megawatts.

Pastolero said that power outages in the city have been reduced by around 600 minutes this year.

“We have reduced number of outages through time and we aim to definitely reduce it further in cooperation with our power generators and suppliers,” he said.

PECO recorded some 14,000 minutes of power outages in 2010 down to more than 2,000 minutes in 2015.

Source: PNA

La Paz Batchoy goes International

2016-04-22T23:24:00.002+08:00

Iloilo's best-known signature dish will be showcased for the world to savor. The Department of Tourism (DOT)-6 said that “La Paz batchoy” will be featured in the World Street Food Congress and Jamboree (WFSC) which features the world’s finest hawker and food artisan.

WSFC is a symposium, conference and mega street feasting festival that gathers leading international hawkers, food curators, bloggers and greatest chefs to discuss about food innovation, culinary preservation and success stories that aim to influence and ignite the passion of people about food and culinary arts.

The event is hosted by DOT through the Tourism Promotions Board on April 20-24, 2016 at Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. DOT-6 Regional Director Atty. Helen J. Catalbas said One Visayas Cluster (Regions 6, 7, and 8) will showcase three dishes that best represent each region.

“The three regions were made to pass dishes that they believe will highlight the culinary experience of each region,” she said. La Paz batchoy of Iloilo was chosen to represent Western Visayas, Kinapusan (crispy pork) of Cebu for Central Visayas and Tahong Lumpia of Tacloban City for Eastern Visayas.

She said these dishes will be served to an estimated 800 to 1,000 people daily during the five-day event by Chef Dennis Jay Uy of Maximama Cucina Latina and former Corporate Executive Chef of Maribago Bluewater Resort and Spa and his sous chef.

Catalbas is looking forward to see those who will visit WSF Jamboree and attend WSFC visiting Western Visayas soon.

“Through serving La Paz Batchoy, anyone can have a glimpse of the rich and flavorful culture of Western Visayas and give them reasons to go and experience the region,” she said. DOT-6 organized Street Food Kulinarya Workshop in 2014-2015 with 328 street food vendors trained.

“With that and Iloilo offering Culinary tourism as one of its tourism product, hosting WSFC in the near future is not far from happening”, she added.

P1.7-B BPO Twin Tower soon to rise in Iloilo City

2016-04-05T21:03:00.003+08:00

All is set for the construction of an 18-story information technology building of SM City BPO Twin Tower costing P1.7 billion along the Iloilo diversion road to house a call center, other offices, and parking spaces.

The city council here has endorsed the project last March 8, 2016, as a requirement for the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) endorsement of a proposed economic zone for a Presidential Proclamation.

SP committee on trade, commerce and industry chair Candice Magdalane Tupas said the investment project is a big boost to the city, especially it is now ranked as an important area for the business process outsourcing (BPO) or call center industry.

A letter dated January 27, 2016 of SM City mall manager Gilbert Domingo requested for a city council endorsement required for PEZA endorsement. A consultative meeting with stakeholders was conducted on March 7 for the proposed construction of an 18-floor building.

The BPO Twin Tower is across the SM City Mall and besides the Injap Tower building.
An initial plan is to make the lower ground floor as a terminal or drop off and pick up station for public transport and the 2nd to 5th floor as parking areas for the SM clients.

The start of the BPO Twin Tower and other offices is from the 6th until the 18th floor. The building is not solely for a call center but can be leased to other offices.

The SM management is preparing all documents for their prequalification clearance and is requesting only 20 percent of the total floor area to be declared as PEZA accredited area.

Construction will start as soon majority of the works at the SM Southpoint Expansion is finished. This is NOT an OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE from SM City Iloilo. Official PR will published when it comes out.

The target date of completion of the first six floors is in November 2017.

Iloilo international airport up for P30.4B expansion

2016-02-26T20:52:00.003+08:00

ILOILO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The Iloilo International Airport located in Cabatuan municipality, Iloilo is up for PHP30.40-billion massive rehabilitation and improvement soon as part of the 14 projects implemented through the public private partnership (PPP).

The 14 PPP projects have an estimated value of PHP556.56 billion include five regional airports, a prison facility, a port modernization and water project, expressway dike, two information technology (IT) projects and three rail projects.

Earlier, Senate President Franklin M. Drilon told the Ilonggos that the PPP projects are exempted from election ban by the Commission on Elections (Comelec). Drilon said the five regional airport projects under the PPP are being offered in two bundles.

The first covers the PHP20.26-billion Bacolod-Silay Airport and the PHP30.40-billion Iloilo Airport. The second bundle includes the PHP2.34-billion New Bohol (Panglao) Airport, PHP40.57-billion Davao Airport and the PHP14.62-billion Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental.

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has already started the bidding process and moved the date for the submission of bids, originally set on Feb. 29, to 30 calendar days from the issuance of the final concession agreement and instructions to bidders. The agreement stipulated that the winning bidders for each bundle will operate and maintain the airports for 30 years.

The private sector partner will also improve and expand the airports’ facilities. The groups pre-qualified to bid for the airport projects are the San Miguel Holdings Corp.-Incheon International Airport Consortium, Philippine Airports Consortium, Maya Consortium, GMR Infrastructure and Megawide Consortium, and the Filinvest-JATCO-Sojitz Consortium.

The projects are the PPP program’s second airport deal. In 2014, the government awarded the PHP17.52-billion Mactan-Cebu International Airport Passenger Terminal Building project to GMR Infrastructure and Megawide Consortium.

On the other hand, Malacañan assured that the resignation of PPP Center executive director Cosette Canilao and the Comelec ban would not affect the awarding of projects under the PPP. An Ilongga, Canilao is set to step down from her post effective March 8, to address pressing family concerns.

Iloilo City benefits from ICTO’s free public Wi-Fi

2016-02-16T11:30:00.000+08:00

The Information and Communications Technology Office (ICTO) has identified this city as first recipient of the Free Wi-Fi Internet Service Initiative in Western Visayas.

February 16, 2016, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) will be signed between Undersecretary Louis Napoleon C. Casambre and Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog to finalize the project implementation.

Elry Hortillosa, focal person for the project, said that they chose this city as pilot recipient because the bulk of their presence is in this area.

The free Wi-Fi access will be installed in the city’s public plazas, public library, hospitals, seaport and rural health centers.

Several access points will be installed in one area in anticipation of the bulk of users that are expected to avail of the free connection, he said.

Users may avail of 50MB, 100MB or 300MB data per day depending on the level of registration. They can register by browsing for the JuanKonek ID in their gadgets.

The installation of the connection is now going on and the services are expected to be readily available next month, he added.

The free Wi-Fi project is in line with the government’s “Internet for All campaign’” under the Philippine Digital Strategy of 2011 to 2016.

ICTO (Information and Communications Technology Office) is an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

Ilonggos to have a glimpse of Korean culture through Anseong Baudeogi Festival

2016-01-23T16:43:00.003+08:00

For the first time in the history of the Dinagyang Festival, spectators will be treated to a performance of a dance troupe from Anseong City's Baudeogi Festival in South Korea.

Some 20 members of the Anseong Municipal Namsadang Baudeugi Pungmuldan Troupe are now in Iloilo as guest performers during the Ati-ati tribes competition of the Dinagyang Festival on Sunday January 24, 2016.

The dance troupe was formed in an effort to preserve the tradition in Anseong, the home to Namsa, dang. Its performance provides an opportunity for everyone to better understand Korean culture through Namsadangnori, according to the Dinagyang Festival organizer.

The performance by a group from the Baudeogi Festival is a result of the signing of a Friendly City relation between the Anseong City and Iloilo City last year. In October last year, the Iloilo City sent its Dinagyang Festival to perform at the Anseong Baudeogi Festival. The delegation from South Korea is led by Mayor Hwang, EunSeong.

(UPDATE): Welcoming 10 cruise ships this year in Western Visayas

2016-01-16T01:11:00.000+08:00

The Department of Tourism (DOT-6) said Western Visayas is set to welcome 10 international cruise ships this year.

Lawyer Helen J. Catalbas, regional director of DOT-6, said MS Celebrity Millennium, carrying 2,138 passengers and 290 crew members, is scheduled to dock in Boracay Island on January 26.

On January 28, MS Nautica, ferrying 600 passengers, will visit the region.

Other international cruise vessels are the following:

MS Costa Victoria – January 29
Silver Seas Voyage – February 13
MS Silver Shadow – March 4
Insignia – April 18
SS Sapphire Princess – June 20
Legend of the Seas – September. 24
Hanseatic – October 8
Pacific Venus – November 9

According to Catalbas, there are already cruise ships that scheduled to arrive in the region next year and in 2018. These include the following:

Seabourn Sojourn – January 28, 2017 and March 22, 2018
MS Celebrity Constellation – February 14, 2017 and March 14, 2017
MS Crystal Symphony – February 28, 2017
MS Crystal Serenity – March 10, 2018

Catalbas said they are planning to construct a port for cruise ships this year.
The Iloilo City International Port in Barangay Loboc, La Paz district and another in northern Iloilo are being eyed for the project.

The regional director said they are just waiting for the recommendation of foreign cruise consultants who came here to make an assessment of the commercial port in Loboc and other potential facility.

“We are excited to know if which part of Western Visayas is feasible and have greater opportunity to be developed,” she said.

Before the plan rolls out, DOT will have to engage the local government unit (LGU) and other stakeholders through a consultation to get their opinion on the utilization of their ports for visiting cruise ships.

(UPDATE): Cruise ship terminal to open in Iloilo City...

2016-01-12T13:19:00.001+08:00

DOT Region 6 bares plan to construct a cruise ship terminal in Iloilo City

The project will be a joint venture between local investors and foreign cruise company

The DOT is expecting an increase in cruise ship tourists this year 2016

Iloilo City could soon be home to a cruise ship terminal in Western Visayas after the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 6 bared plan that Royal Caribbean Cruise is willing to enter a joint venture with local investors for the construction of the project.

Regional Director Atty. Helen Catalbas disclosed that Royal Caribbean Cruise is looking for destination that would accommodate some 4,500 to 6,000 guests.

At present, Boracay island can only cater to around 3,000. Catalbas added that representatives from the foreign cruise company has visited the city and has considered the Iloilo City International Port in Loboc, Lapaz and another location in the northern Iloilo as potential home to the cruise terminal.

“We are excited to know if which part of Western Visayas is feasible and have greater opportunity to be developed,”. As part of their preparation, Catalbas said the agency will be conducting a series of training sessions and seminars to improve the skills of workers who will be tapped in the cruise service.

Among those who will have to undergo training, the DOT official noted, include tourism personnel of local government units, taxi operators and drivers, front liners, technical marketing persons, and tour guides.

“We will do things indoor through trainings,”explained Catalbas. Last year, the country welcomed 40,000 cruise passengers and the DOT is expecting the number to increase to 50,000 this year.

Tourism Undersecretary Benito C. Bengzon, Jr estimated that a 2,000-passenger cruise ship calling on a Manila port could generate as much as $250,000 in revenue, while “turning around a ship of the same capacity between voyages” would generate some P1.2-M. Aside from Ilolio City and Boracay, DOT is also eyeing the ports in Subic in Zambales and Puerto Princesa in Palawan as another potential location for ocean passenger terminals.

“If we are going to upgrade or develop new ports, we must make sure they satisfy the minimum requirement for big ships,” Bengzon said; adding that a group of consultants has prepared a recommendation for the Philippines under the National Cruise Tourism Development Strategy.

Cruise ship terminal soon in Iloilo

2016-01-10T22:17:00.001+08:00

Luxurious cruise ships will soon be common sight in Iloilo as Department of Tourism (DOT) is planning to build a terminal for large fleet this 2016.

DOT-6 regional director Atty. Helen Catalbas said that they are targeting the Iloilo City International Port in Loboc, Lapaz and another one in northern Iloilo for the project.

Catalbas revealed that they are just waiting for the recommendation of foreign cruise consultants who came here to make an assessment of the commercial port in Loboc and other potential facility.

“We are excited to know if which part of Western Visayas is feasible and have greater opportunity to be developed,” she said.

However, prior the plan will be pushed, they still have to engage the local government unit (LGU) and other stakeholders to a consultation to get their opinion on the utilization of their port for visiting cruise ships.

Cruise ships during their call usually stay from six to 12 hours. The regional director disclosed that the Royal Caribbean is looking for a destination that could cater 4,500 to 6,000 guests.

Even Boracay Island can only accommodate 3,000, she said. The Royal Caribbean she added is even interested to partner with a private investor or local government unit in the establishment of a port.

Iloilo to attract big ticket investors

2015-12-14T23:35:00.001+08:00

The provincial government expects to attract large-ticket and capital-intensive investments from local and abroad in 2016 with the approval of a comprehensive and responsive Iloilo Provincial Investment and Incentives Code.

The amended investment and incentives code approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during their last session on Dec. 9 provides real property tax exemption to either new or expanding enterprises at a gradual rate within ten years of its commercial operation.

The tax incentive for registered enterprise here is in addition to privileges provided by the Local Government Code of 1991, Special Economic Zone Act of 1995 and Omnibus Investment Code and other pertinent laws.

The amendment is in response to Governor Arthur Defensor Sr.’s call to enhance the said ordinance to further promote Iloilo as a favorable investment destination in Philippines during his fifth State of the Province Address (SOPA) last Oct. 27, 2015.

“This is a realization of the governor's policy statement articulated in his last SOPA with the end in view of establishing economic zones in the province to generate more employment opportunities, more revenues, and alleviates [our people from] poverty,” said Provincial Administrator Raul Banias.

This will also provide a more stable environment to our investors as they start their operations. “We all know that new investments bring in fresh money to the local economy through jobs they create thus spurring economic activities and businesses to grow and thrive,” said Defensor.

The amended investment code applies to all direct investments in the province, including local and foreign, and resident and non-resident, but excluding portfolio investments. Portfolio investments are defined as cross border transactions and positions involving debt or equity securities, other than included in direct investment or reserve assets.

Aside from extending the period of availment of the incentives to 10 years, the other amendments feature the Powers and Functions of the Local Economic Development & Investment Promotion Center, the provision on Employment Preference for Ilonggos and the detailed Registration Requirements of those who will avail of the incentives.

Since the establishment of the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Unit late last year, a number of interested investors have been served, some of which are now in the feasibility study stage, according to Local Economic and Investment Promotion Officer Velma Jane Lao of the Provincial Planning and Development Office.

With all this development, Lao believed that the amended investment code will influence the investment decisions of local and foreign investors in agri-business, tourism-oriented enterprises, manufacturing, property development, information and communications technology or business process outsourcing, and services-oriented enterprises.

Php18-M rehabilitation of Iloilo Sports Complex completed

2015-12-14T23:27:00.000+08:00

The rehabilitation of the Iloilo Sports Complex worth Php18 million is now finished.

Provincial administrator Raul Banias said that the rubberizing of the track oval and lane painting was completed (December 12, 2015). Contractor with consultants from Taiwan and from Great Britain, has delivered the materials and finished the rubberized track oval. Also, the grass of the football field which was changed to another type of Bermuda grass from the United States of America (USA) has been continually taken cared of for the grass to further mature.

“Ideally, after one more month, the football field will be ready to be used for football competitions,” Banias said. The completion of the track oval is also timely for the conduct of integrated meet next week.

Another major improvement in the sports complex is the construction of football stadium lights slated first quarter of 2016. They are now looking for appropriate contractors who are experts in designing and building lights to undergo a competitive bidding process.

“Whoever will get the contract, they will design and install the football lights,” Banias said. The four high posts LED lights will comply with the lighting requirements of night football competitions.

After the integrated meet this December, the play courts that include the basketball court, volleyball court and tennis court will also be rehabilitated in 2016. “After all these rehabilitation and improvement, our playing grounds are up to the international standard already”.

Further, Banias said that Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Sr. is would like the dressing and rest rooms at the sports complex be of international standards.

“It is already included in the line- up and we hope to get funding for that in 2016,” Banias added.

‘Our Lady of the Iloilo River’ rules over Esplanade

2015-12-11T06:00:00.001+08:00

Iloilo Esplanade 2 is now a home to a painting of renowned Ilonggo artist Fernando Kabigting honoring Mother Mary.

Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, Councilor Joshua Alim, former Councilor Nielex Tupas, Kabigting and his wife, Menchu, and other friends of arts attended the unveiling and blessing of the painted image of Mother Mary dubbed as ‘Our Lady of the Iloilo River’ last December 8, which coincided with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary.

Reverend Father Esperidion Celis blessed the 12.8 – foot high painted image on old wood which was put on a pedestal at the Esplanade 2. Mabilog said when the plan was presented to him last summer he thought of no other best place where to put the image representing Mama Mary but on the Iloilo River.

“A good symbol, a good reminder to everyone who passes through here that through the blessings of God through Mama Mary we will receive more graces, more blessings from the Lord,” said Mabilog.

He further said that this could not only be a holy place but also a place of reminder that through persistence and hardwork everything is possible. Notwithstanding the disability he incurred by stroke in 1999 that left his right hand paralyzed and left eye blind, Kabigting persevered and continued his craft and even mounted an exhibit this year featuring 30 of his newest art works at the Philippine Consulate in New York City.

Mabilog said the event is also a manifestation of what public and private partnership is all about in the city as the structure or the pedestal where the painted image sits was donated by Mr. Alfonso Tan and family. In her message on behalf of wheelchair-bound Fernando, Menchu said her family is very happy “that his wish to give a unique gift to Iloilo, a city he has cherished and called his home is now at hand.

This comes from his heart and whole-being”. She said the painted image is a work of art that manifests Fernando’s talent, his steadfast faith and his being a Filipino and this will forever be a symbol of his acknowledgement of the greatness of God and the many delightful intercessions of our Lady as well as his appreciation of the goodness of Ilonggos.

She likewise thanked individuals including Senate President Franklin Drilon for making the offering of Fernando to be a part of the Iloilo Esplanade. For former Councilor and now, National Youth Commission Executive Director, Nielex Tupas the event was not only a commemoration of the Feast of Immaculate Conception but also a celebration of public and private partnership for in this spot the city will have a new tourism destination, a heritage area and at the same time, a religious icon of the city.

Kabigting, an adopted son of the city, was recognized for his achievements and contributions in the field of arts during the 78th Charter Day celebration last August.

Construction of Php80-M Iloilo Regional Museum to start in 2016

2015-12-02T18:47:00.000+08:00

The construction of Phase 2 of the Php80 million regional museum in Iloilo will start in January 2016.

The phase 2 is the continuation of the Php20 million Phase 1 of the project that covers the retrofitting of the building that includes the preparation, foundation, preparation of columns and other additional structural work.

The second phase will convert the Old Iloilo Provincial Jail into a regional museum and will cover the construction of the dome and landscaping.

Last November 26, the National Museum's Bid and Awards Committee (BAC) finished the pre-bidding conference of the second phase.

A representative from the BAC said that they expect to open the bids on December 22 in order to award the project to a winning bidder by January 8. There are four bidders from Iloilo, Manila, Zamboanga and Pampanga that are expected to participate in the bidding process.

After the awarding of the winning bidder, the construction of the Phase 2 will immediately start and expected to be finished after 180 working days or six months. A Museum Park facing the river will also be constructed and an access road from Bonifacio drive where the said regional museum is located will be incorporated in the project.

WV joins NorthPhil Expo; flights between Iloilo-Clark proposed

2015-11-14T23:44:00.005+08:00

The Department of Tourism (DOT)-6 said that tourist attractions, facilities, and products of region 6 are showcased in the ongoing NorthPhil Expo at SM Clark, Pampanga.

In a media release, DOT-6 Regional Director Helen Catalbas said that the participation of Region 6 in this year’s event is part of DOT-6’s move to establish linkage between Iloilo and Clark by air.

“We are studying the possibility of having a direct flight between Clark International Airport and Iloilo International Airport,” she said.

She said that they are convincing airline companies to operate the route on at least a once-weekly basis as soon as evidence of its sustainability can be provided. At present, Clark and Kalibo in Aklan maintain regular flights with domestic and foreign tourists as passengers.

Catalbas further said that one of the ways to fill the growing number of rooms in Western Visayas is to increase the number of flights to the region. As of the latest count, Western Visayas has around 19,000 accommodation rooms.

“We have to aggressively market Western Visayas and continuously improve the tourist product and develop new ones if we want not only to get a bigger share of the Philippine tourist arrivals but be a major contributor to these arrivals”, she said.

DOT-6 is joined by the provinces of Guimaras, Aklan, Antique, Capiz and Negros Occidental in this year’s NorthPhil Expo.

The 2015 NorthPhil Expo, which kicked off today November 13 until 15, is a long-running tourism expo in North Philippines that has emerged as an international event.

Real property payments now online

2015-11-14T23:38:00.003+08:00

Tax payers in the province of Iloilo will have the option of paying online and avoid the inconvenience of waiting.

For the first time in the region, this is possible for real property taxpayers especially, as the local government has signed an agreement with the Landbank of the Philippines for use of the ePayment Portal.

Landbank’s ePayment Portal is internet based, designed to accept payments from taxpayers of the province, aimed at decreasing the direct and indirect costs as well associated with cash handling.

Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor said it is seen to de-clog traffic at the Treasurer’s Office and minimize operational costs. He added that taxpayers from far flung towns, like Carles, do not have to travel more than a hundred kilometers to go to the capitol to pay.

“This innovation will go a long way in improving the tax collection efficiency of the provincial government,” Defensor said. According to Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, this new system boosts Governor Defensor’s “reform and change” principle, for more transparent and convenient transactions.

The system will give taxpayers the experience of electronic banking transactions of simply logging in to https://epaymentportal.landbank.com for speedy transactions.

The ePP facility also allows users to in quire in real time and download reports of successful payment transactions. Provincial Treasurer Melba Sullivan said the Provincial Treasurer’s office is moving into a cashless system where taxpayers do not have to bring their cash around, with a maximized use of technology which gives them 24/7 quality service.

“This is a testament of good governance, giving the people the assurance that their money is safe with us,” Sullivan said.

Dinagyang Festival to go GLOBAL

2015-10-29T18:33:00.006+08:00

The city government here is targeting more INTERNATIONAL EXPOSURE to the already world-renowned Dinagyang Festival in 2016.

City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, during the recently held official launching of the 2016 Dinagyang Festival edition, said that they are planning to bring Dinagyang to other countries to promote the city’s rich history and heritage.

“We should be more global and be more proud of what we have,” he said.

He said that historically, Dinagyang Festival has been to various destinations including New York, Los Angeles, Guam, Washington DC in the United States, Hong Kong, Japan, and Korea, among others.

He shared that during the APEC (Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation) summit recently held here, the Dinagyang Festival performers elicited the most thunderous applause from the foreign delegates.

Meanwhile, the city government, the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Inc. (IDFI) and the San Jose Parish Church signed a memorandum of agreement for the celebration of the 2016 festival edition.

The Ati Tribes competition which serves as the main highlight of the celebration is slated on January 24, 2016.

The Dinagyang Pamukaw is scheduled on Dec. 11, 2015 while the
Opening Salvo is on January 8, 2016.

The Kasadyahan Festival is on January 23, 2016 while
Fluvial Procession is set on January 20, 2016.

Two New Malls SOON TO RISE in Pavia

2015-10-15T18:00:00.000+08:00

Two malls are soon to rise in Pavia. Industry sources reveal between the municipality and the Gokongweis and the Cos. The Gokongweis own Robinsons Corporation. The Cos own Puregold Price Club a chain of 156 department stores that is said to be a threat to the crown of Henry Sy of SM Corporation as the nation’s king of retail industry. It’s owner Lucio Co is said to be very interested in Iloilo, same sources reveal.

To date, Robinson’s corporation is expanding its business base in Iloilo City . Recently, Puregold has acquired Eunilaine foodmarts and Grocer E supermarkets, boosting its number by 15 new stores.

The University of Iloilo (UI) Extension Campus in Ungka II, owned by the Lopez’s, will host the rise of the two malls. Since the campus is not being utilized anymore, the Lopez’s decided to sell the entire property. Also, some part of Ungka II Barangay Complex, including the Barangay Hall, Mini Market, Basketball Court and Health Center, will be moved adjacent to the area where it is currently located.

The plan was conceptualized late few years. It was the opening of the international flights in Iloilo Airport, the rapid growth of the residential subdivisions in the area and the newly opened circumferential road, 300 meters away from the site where the malls will be put up, that provided great influence for the project to come to life.

The airport is the key to the development of the establishments around Pavia. Pavia plays a big role in promoting tourism (in Western Visayas.) Tourists have to pass through the town in coming in and out of Iloilo. Hence, it will continue to grow as a premiere municipality of the Philippines with better economy and balanced environment.

City Mayor wants permanent APEC marker in Iloilo City

2015-10-15T16:48:00.001+08:00

Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog would like to have a permanent APEC marker placed in this city as a reminder of its successful hosting of the 2015 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings that concluded here on Oct 7, 2015.

"The city mayor said that names of all those who helped in the hosting will be etched at the back of the marker as time and again he expressed how proud he is that the international event was a success."

To recall, this city hosted three major meetings from September 21 until October 7, 2015 and one technical working group meeting in July.

As part of the preparations, the city tapped students and professional volunteers to assist in the various committees of the Iloilo Organizing Committee (IOC) and worked with their counterparts at the National Organizing Council (NOC).

The marker is similar to the 3D markers that were placed at the Iloilo Convention Center (ICC) and various places visited by APEC delegates.

Mabilog said that he already mentioned his plan to Ambassador Ma. Angelina Sta. Catalina, deputy director-general of the committee on conference management services of the 2015 APEC.

APEC delegates impressed with Ilonggo culture

2015-10-08T15:58:00.000+08:00

The similarities in culture have made some foreign delegates of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings here to immediately ‘feel at home’ in the city of Iloilo.

Carmen Azurin, a delegate from Peru, said that Filipinos and Peruvians share cultural similarities particularly in how they live their daily lives. “We were also a colony of Spain and we got our independence in 1821 but the influence of Spanish culture in our country is still there,” she said.

She said that some traditional customs and practices have survived and these have enriched the cultures of both countries.

Wan Tze Chen, a delegate of Chinese-Taipei, said she is delighted to know the long-standing relationship between the Chinese and the Filipinos in Iloilo City. “I am happy that I am from Taiwan and we share something here in Iloilo,” she said.

During the city tour for APEC delegates, one of the stops was the Museo Iloilo where they were given a brief talk on how trade between the Chinese and the Filipinos in Iloilo has flourished.

Azurin said that she would like to come back, visit other interesting places in Iloilo, and try out other local delicacies. “I have not tried ‘batchoy’ but I have enjoyed some delicacies including a fish soup and pastries made with banana. My favorite is adobo,” she said.

On one hand, Chen said she would want to visit Iloilo again and witness the Dinagyang Festival next year with her family.

Vista Land to build P40B ‘Communicity’ in Iloilo

2015-10-04T00:41:00.000+08:00

Villar-led Vista Land and Lifescapes Inc. said that it would be expanding its Iloilo-based residential project into a “communicity” able to provide residents with everything they need.

In a disclosure, the company said the Vista City Iloilo development would be a flagship project for the Visayas, containing malls, hotels, buildings for the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry and hospitals.

It will be an expansion of the Savannah Glades project, which was the property firm’s first Iloilo development. Opened in September 2000, it now comprises seven residential enclaves covering over 300 hectares and is the largest residential community in Panay Island.

“The integration of the residential project with commercial development will complete Vista City Iloilo’s transformation into a communicity with adequate security and convenient transportation services,” Vista Land said.

Vista Land describes its “communicity” projects as “innovative masterplanned city developments designed to be completely self-contained, with vast properties that offer facilities, amenities, community structures and commercial establishments closer to a city than a mere residential village.”

The project value of Vista City Iloilo was estimated at P40 billion. It will cover about 500 hectares, spread over Oton, Pavia and San Miguel on Panay Island.

The developer said it had allocated at least 100 hectares for the city center, which will house BPO offices, shopping establishments and hotels. It will also have churches with a columbarium, events places and amusement parks.

Establishments located near the development include the University of the Philippines Visayas, Central Philippine University, University of San Agustin, and the West Visayas University; as well as the Western Visayas Medical Center and The Medical City Iloilo.

Vista Land noted that Iloilo City has been attracting major real estate industry players, is the regional capital and economic hub of the Western Visayas and is hosting Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation conferences this year.

Ombudsman grants BLUE Certificate to Iloilo City’s business process and licensing office

2015-10-04T00:18:00.000+08:00

The Office of the Ombudsman awarded this city government’s Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) with a Blue Certification Level 2 Award simultaneous with the launching of the Investment Ombudsman here.

The Blue Certification Award, which is similar to the International Standards Organization (ISO), is granted to local government units (LGUs) that have complied with business standards set under the Ombudsman's Blue Certification Program in addressing red tape issues.

Iloilo City was able to comply with 65 of the 87 business standards, thus earning the Level 2 award. The 87 business standards cover the order and proper management of LGU ranging from the application form, requirements, procedures, information technology−enabled system, citizens charter, customer’s convenience, anti−fixing mechanism, business permit, and continuous improvement.

“Today, we commit our full support and take the challenge to increase our level, from Level 2 to Level 3,” said Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog.

This city’s BPLO was the only LGU to be given the Level 2 certification outside of Metro Manila excluding Makati City. Nine assessors from the Office of the Ombudsman in Western Visayas led by acting director Atty. Philip C. Camiguing observed how the BPLO transacts business with its clients during the renewal of business permits in January this 2015.

The blue certificate will last until September 30, 2018. Meantime, the Investment Ombudsman in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Board of Investors (BOI) and the Business Community would like to ensure the good environment, security and order in business that will encourage the local and foreign investors to invest in the country.

Assistant Ombudsman Evelyn Baliton, during her presentation, showed that in 2015 the Philippines was cited to have the most number of procedures in Southeast Asia in terms of processing business documents. The procedures, requirements, customer orientation, proximity of offices, forms that are difficult to fill in are the reasons that lead businesses to deal with the “fixers” to facilitate their licenses.

However, Mabilog said that the processing of business permits in Iloilo takes only 30 minutes from three months in 2011, three days in 2012 and one day in 2013. “We encourage the investors if they would meet some obstacles in terms of investment or trade related complaints on government agency, they can always send their complaints or requests to the office of the Ombudsman.

We have our email account (IO@ombudsman.gov.ph) text (09266994703) or call ([+033] 508−9658) to the office of the Ombudsman,” said Camiguing. Investment Ombudsman encompasses even the smallest scale businesses like the sari−sari stores up to large scale business.