The city of Mandaue lies in a strategic location. From the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, it is the gateway to the cities and municipalities in the province. It is also just minutes away from the major growth points in the Metro Cebu area. The prime positioning of Mandaue has helped in fast-tracking progress in the city, being recognized as one of three highly-urbanized cities in Central Visayas1 and the industrial hub of the region. It is home to about 10,000 industrial and commercial locators2.

Mandaue continues to look to the future with multiple developments that will usher the city towards progress:  

Mantawi Residences

Mantawi Residences is RLC Residences’ first premium development in Cebu. It is strategically located in Ouano Avenue and promises spacious and smart home-upgraded units ranging from one to three bedrooms and penthouse suites. These units all come with loggia – an extended living space where soon-to-be homeowners can comfortably relax while appreciating the beautiful city skyline of Cebu.

Apart from these, residents will be treated to hyper-sized indoor and outdoor facilities spread out in 1.3 hectares of amenity area. These include beach-inspired swimming pools, landscaped areas, jogging trails, a pet park, a spa, and indoor amenities including a game room, a work lounge, and a private theater among others. 

Aside from elevating the lifestyles of its future residents, Mantawi Residences will also open its ground floor to house global brands and upscale dining areas that will level up commercial activities in the area. 

Metro Cebu Expressway

The Metro Cebu Expressway (MCE), a 56.9 km long project, is expected to solve the traffic congestion within Metro Cebu. The South to North expressway is divided into three segments including the Minglanilla – Cebu City – Mandaue/Consolacion Bdry portion; Mandaue/Consolacion Bdry. to Danao City section; and Naga City – Minglanilla component. 

Once completed, MCE aims to ease the movement of people and commerce in Metro Cebu’s Central Business Districts and economic/export and tourism zones. Providing mobility, MCE targets to drive economic growth across Cebu’s urban districts. 

Cebu Bus Rapid Transit 

Also on a mission to decongest roads is the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT), a bus service with dedicated routes traversing a 13.8-kilometer road. The project seeks to provide commuters with a faster alternative transportation to and from schools, workplaces, and other lifestyle centers. 

Under the project, buses will run on a priority lane- one in each opposite direction- while the rest of the lanes will be opened for mixed-use traffic. 

“Cebu is simply beaming with progress. The extensive transportation systems on the works promise great opportunities to Cebuanos and even greater returns for investors. These are also our considerations in bringing about Mantawi Residences right in Mandaue, so that our future residents can benefit from living right at the frontier of progress” says Karen Cesario, RLC Residences’ Senior Director,  Marketing Head and Chief Integration Officer. 

New Cebu International Container Port

Future development in Mandaue are all geared towards improving the quality of life thru economic progress, and the upcoming New Cebu International Container Port (NCICP) is no exception. This new project will be built on a reclaimed area in Consolacion and is set to help ease the state of doing business in the area through better infrastructure. Featuring a berthing facility that can accommodate two 2,000 twenty-foot equivalent unit vessels at the same time, NCICP is seen to aid in flourishing local business with competitive prices and increase economic opportunities for the residents once fully built and operational.

With its improved facilities and structures for containers with an inclusion of an access road and bridge, the NCICP is expected to ease the increasing volumes being handled by the Cebu International Port and enhance the flow of goods and services in the Visayas region. 

Premiere Waterfront Development by Global City Mandaue Corporation 

The Global City Mandaue Corporation is developing a 101-hectare premier waterfront project along the Mactan Channel. It will feature office spaces, malls, luxury retail options, hotels, resorts, and restaurants. Cultural spaces like galleries, museums, and libraries will also rise. Pocket parks, pathways, and playgrounds will complete the vibrant lifestyle experience.

The project had its groundbreaking in May of 2022. When it is completed, those living in Mantawi Residences will have access to a hub for business, culture, education, and entertainment. 

“Mandaue truly has a lot more to offer in the coming years and we can’t wait for our future homeowners at Mantawi Residences to say that they made the right choice,” remarks Cesario. 

To know more about Mantawi Residences, visit rlcresidences.com .

[1] https://psa.gov.ph/content/population-region-vii-central-visayas-based-2015-census-population

[2] https://www.mandauecity.gov.ph/ 

[3] https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/PPP/projs/metro_cebu 

[4] https://www.portcalls.com/higher-cost-for-new-cebu-container-port-project/

Araw Hospitality Group, the umbrella organization behind exciting concepts like Lihim Resorts in El Nido, Palawan, UNWND Boutique Hotel Chain, One Hagdan Villas, Kommons by Kamino in Boracay and more, announced a landmark partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) on September 4, 2023. The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was officially signed at a momentous event hosted at Mamser in UNWND Boutique Hotel.

Committed to Cultural Sensitivity and Socio-Economic Development

A new benchmark has been achieved in the Philippine hospitality industry as the Araw Hospitality Group and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) have signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA). This agreement will create opportunities for Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) in the locations where Araw Hospitality Group hotels, resorts, and restaurants are situated.

The event was graced by Araw Hospitality Group’s CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier, COO Cornelio V. Caedo, and CSR Champion and Corporate Wellness Manager Cybille Barcebal; while NCIP was represented by Chairperson Allen A. Capuyan, Acting Director Glenda Pua, and Commissioner Gaspar A. Cayat (via Zoom).

The event's theme, "A Tapestry of Harmony," symbolizing their unity and shared vision of a hospitality industry that works towards a more inclusive future for the Philippines' ICCs and IPs. This groundbreaking partnership is committed to IPs and ICCs in various aspects such as livelihood, training, and business opportunities. The collaboration is based on a multi-pronged approach:

A historic agreement was reached between Araw Hospitality Group and NCIP. The MOA was signed by (from L-R): Araw Hospitality Group COO Cornelio V. Caedo,  Araw Hospitality Group CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier, NCIP Chairperson Allen A. Capuyan an  Acting NCIP Director Glenda Pua.

• Livelihood Opportunities: Araw Hospitality Group will extend livelihood and business opportunities in its vast service sectors like resorts, hotels, bars, and restaurants, specifically for qualified ICCs and IPs to enhance their socio-economic status.
• Fair Trade: Araw Hospitality Group pledges to purchase goods from ICCs and IPs at fair market value under the agreement, thereby appreciating the artisans' unique skills and craftsmanship.
• Capacity-Building: The partnership will initiate projects aimed at improving the economic and social well-being of selected ICCs and IPs, focusing on skills development and capacity-building.
• Nurturing Ingenuity: Additional programs are in the pipeline to harness the innate creativity and talents of ICCs and IPs, propelling them toward greater self-sufficiency and community development.

NCIP Director Glenda Pua expressed her gratitude to Araw Hospitality Group, stating, “We heavily rely on partnerships, and we cannot do it without private sector partners like Araw. They serve as our multiplier in creating more opportunities, eradicating poverty, and promoting the beauty and wonders of indigenous communities.”

Meanwhile, Jean Henri Lhuillier hopes that Araw Hospitality Group’s partnership with NCIP becomes a symbol for other hospitality institutions to follow. He explains, “The ICC/IP community is truly the essence of a true Filipino, and I believe that with all our assets spread throughout the country, we can help tell their story and provide a reason why our assets are located there. We will ensure that all our clients who visit our major hotel brands, Lihim, UNWND, and Kommons, learn about the NCIP and the IP communities living in those areas."

A fresh breed of triathletes and stand out performances will be revealed in the first ever IRONMAN-branded race in Dapitan

DAPITAN, Zamboanga del Norte (September 8, 2023) – The 5150® Triathon Dapitan and Go for Gold Sunrise Sprint will be the first IRONMAN®-branded events to be held in the heritage city of Dapitan in Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. Dapitan will be the stage for both new and seasoned athletes – perfect for a fast course on a welcoming distance equalling 51 kilometers. The 1.5km swim starts near the Punto del Desembarco De Rizal along Sunset Blvd., with a 40km bike course, taking cyclists towards Dapitan City Hall and the Dipolog-Oroquieta National Road. The 10km run course will then send the athletes back to Punto del Desembarco, passing by historical landmarks.

“We are excited to be the only race to combine, in this depth, an event to celebrate our heritage and sports. It is the perfect opportunity for families and the community to get together and to honor our past, experience life in the present, and to encourage our youth and greater community for a future in sports,” said Dapitan City Mayor Seth “Bullet” Jalosjos. “Dapitan has a rich history and is now becoming a destination for sports tourism.”

“We are honored to organize events that highlight the achievements of our fellow Filipinos in the special place where our National Hero spent possibly his most productive years,” Princess Galura, Regional Director of The IRONMAN Group Philippines said of the event. “Only in Dapitan will the local athletes have the opportunity to be awarded with transformative prize money, which will support them in their pursuit for excellence in their field,” she added.  A total of P870,000.00 Prize Money is at stake for the 22 categories. 

Along with the 5150 Triathlon, the Go for Gold Sunrise Sprint welcomes competitive athletes for the shorter course and those who are new to the sport. With a distance of 750m swim, 20km bike, and a 5km run, this distance will cater to a wide range of athletes. Powerball Vice President for Marketing, Jeremy Go, whose company has supported the Sunrise Sprint for many years, is looking forward to local athletes joining the race.  “There are many strong athletes in Mindanao, and we are looking forward to discovering in Dapitan some emerging stars in the field,” Go said.

With such a fast course, the Bagong Bayani category was established, which was formerly known as the Filipino Elite.  The Dapitan race will see competitive athletes who have represented the Philippines in international races and has made a mark in the current Philippine triathlon scene.  The likes of Kim Mangrobang, Fer Casares, Rambo Chicano, Maynard Pecson, Raymund Torio, Bea Quiambao, Raven Faith Alcoseba and Kim Remolino will be part of the 23-strong Bagong Bayani field.

Jeremy Go - Vice President for Marketing of Powerball Marketing and Logistics Corp, Princess Galura - President and General Manager of Sunrise Events Inc., Mayor Frederick Seth "Bullet" Jalosjos - Dapitan City Mayor, Svetlana Jalosjos-De Leon - President RomGarJal Resort Properties - Dakak Park and Beach Resort.

Festival events for participants and their families are organized to delight, amuse and educate. Heritage tour sessions are available on Friday afternoon and the Tertulia con Tito George on Saturday. The Tertulia is a seated discourse and afternoon tea with George Aseniero, grandson of Rizal's Dapitan student, Jose Aseniero. A costumed Fun Run is also scheduled on Saturday afternoon. The Noli Run pays homage to Rizal, referencing his works in costumes from the era of his works. Registration for the 4km run is at P650 pesos, along with unique inclusions and a total of P20,000.00 prize money for the Best Costume awardees.

To offer the optimal environment for the athletes and their families for the weekend, The Registration and Expo is located in the world-class Dakak Park and Beach Resort.  The local government of Dapitan has negotiated that entrance for participants, families and their support crew.  This will be waived on Sept 8-9. The spacious grounds and excellent ventilation will offer a comfortable experience to everyone in attendance.  On Sept 10 (Sunday), participants and families will still continue to experience Dakak at 50% off entrance fee at P500 with P150 consumable for food & drinks. Dakak is a must visit, capping off the weekend’s cultural and historical experience in Dapitan. The resort offers activities such as PADI diving, banana boat, jet skiing, Airsoft games, ATVs, horse-back riding, and ziplining at affordable packages. 

The 5150 Dapitan is a part of the year-long 5150 and Sprint program of Sunrise Events which provides three beautiful venues, each with its own character, bundled with a short triathlon race, that is both fun and challenging, fit for any beginner of the sport.

The 5150 Dapitan and Go For Gold Sunrise Sprint is supported by the local government of Dapitan City, Go for Gold for Sunrise Sprint, Active, Rudy Project, Sante Barley, Nature’s Spring Water, Manila Bulletin and Tempo.


For more information about the 2023 5150 Triathlon in Dapitan, please visit https:// www.ironman.com/5150-dapitan-philippines or email sai.mayol@ironman.com. For more information about the Sunrise Sprint, visit https://www.goforgold.sunrisesprint.com For more information about the IRONMAN TriClub program, registering a club or affiliating with your team, visit www.ironman.com/triclubs. For more information on the IRONMAN® brand and global event series, please visit www.ironman.com.

About The IRONMAN Group  

The IRONMAN Group operates a global portfolio of events that includes the IRONMAN® Triathlon Series, the IRONMAN® 70.3®Triathlon Series, 5150™ Triathlon Series, the Rock ‘n’ Roll® Running Series, IRONKIDS®, World Triathlon Championship Series, premier running events including the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon™ and City2Surf®, UTMB® World Series trail-running events including the Canyons Endurance Runs™ by UTMB®, Tarawera Ultra by UTMB® and Ultra-Trail Australia™ by UTMB®, Epic Series™ mountain bike races including the Absa Cape Epic®, road cycling events including Haute Route®, and other multisport races. The IRONMAN Group is the largest operator of mass participation sports in the world and provides more than a million participants annually the benefits of endurance sports through the company’s vast offerings. Catering to the full athlete experience, the company portfolio also includes FulGaz® virtual cycling, the most realistic indoor riding experience connected fitness application aimed at preparing athletes for real-world events. Since the inception of the iconic IRONMAN® brand and its first event in 1978, athletes have proven that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE® by crossing finish lines around the world. Beginning as a single race, The IRONMAN Group has grown to become a global sensation with hundreds of events across 55+ countries. The IRONMAN Group is owned by Advance, a private, family-owned business, and Orkila Capital, a growth equity firm focused on building great brands. For more information, visit www.ironman.com/about-ironman-group.

About Sunrise Events

In the Philippines, Sunrise Events is the company behind the IRONMAN® brand and races. It is the company that owns and produces all the IRONMAN® and IRONMAN® 70.3® races in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The multi-awarded and consistently sold-out IRONMAN® 70.3® Philippines in Cebu is considered the Crown Jewel of Asia and won as Best Spectator Award at the IRONMAN® World Championship in Kona, Hawai'i in 2018. 

About Advance     

Advance is a private, family-held business that owns and invests in companies across media, entertainment, technology, communications, education and other promising growth sectors. Our mission is to build the value of our companies over the long-term by fostering growth and innovation. Advance’s portfolio includes Condé Nast, Advance Local, Stage Entertainment, The IRONMAN Group, American City Business Journals, Leaders Group, Turnitin, and Pop. Together these operating companies employ more than 17,000 people in 29 countries. Advance is also among the largest shareholders in Charter Communications, Warner Bros. Discovery and Reddit. For more information visit www.advance.com.

Bold new partnership will transition Delfingen’s Cebu manufacturing operations to renewable energy, helping reduce the company’s carbon emissions 

ACEN’s portfolio of renewable energy assets, now reaching ~4,330 MW in capacity, will supply Delfingen with clean energy 

A bold step in both companies’ commitment to a sustainable future as it targets to avoid approximately 4,150 tons of carbon emissions throughout the duration of the contract 

French automotive supplier, Delfingen, renowned globally for its on-board networks protection solutions and fluid transfer tubing for vehicles, has boldly committed to a greener future, transitioning its Cebu manufacturing operations to a 100% renewable energy supply through a partnership with Ayala group’s ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES). This groundbreaking shift will significantly reduce the carbon emissions of Delfingen, making a substantial contribution to global climate change mitigation efforts.

Formerly powered by conventional sources, Delfingen made the decisive leap to fully renewable energy, utilizing the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP). This progressive government initiative empowers customers with an average demand of at least 100 kilowatts to source power from renewable sources, such as solar, wind and geothermal, and choose their renewable energy supplier over the local distribution utility operating within their region. 

Edmark Perez, Delfingen Cebu plant manager, said: "Our unwavering commitment to reducing our carbon footprint goes hand in hand with maintaining our products' global standards. As we transition to renewable energy, we not only contribute to environmental preservation but also bolster our customers' sustainability goals." 

Ela Mina, ACEN RES assistant vice president and head of account management, expressed deep pride and excitement at being chosen by Delfingen as their energy supplier and sustainability partner. "Our mission at ACEN RES is not just about simplifying the transition to renewables for businesses in the Philippines. It's about igniting a broader transformation in corporate sustainability, championing the use of renewable energy as a concrete step towards achieving ESG goals. Through this partnership with Delfingen, we are not only providing a more sustainable energy source, but also creating significant cost savings and fostering a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations." 

ACEN RES, the retail electricity arm of the Ayala Group, stands at the forefront of renewable energy solutions. As a licensed retail electricity supplier, ACEN RES powers businesses and industries through the RCOA and the GEOP, making a significant contribution to the reduction of global carbon emissions and reinforcing the critical importance of ESG considerations in businesses today. 

ACEN RES’ generation company, ACEN, continues to aggressively expand its portfolio across its key markets in Asia Pacific as part of its bold aspiration to reach 20 GW of renewables by 2030. 

About ACEN ACEN 

(PSE:ACEN) is the listed energy platform of the Ayala Group. The company has ~4,400 MW of attributable capacity from owned facilities in the Philippines, Australia, Vietnam, Indonesia and India, with a renewable share of 98%, which is among the highest in the region. 

ACEN’s aspiration is to be the largest listed renewables platform in Southeast Asia, with a goal of reaching 20 GW of renewables capacity by 2030. ACEN is committed to transition the company’s generation portfolio to 100% renewable energy by 2025 and to become a Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions company by 2050.

Cebu, Philippines — Big Bad Wolf Book Sale returns to take over Cebu! After a successful run in Manila, Big Bad Wolf will be bringing its biggest book sale to Cebu for the first time since 2019.

Big Bad Wolf Cebu

Cebu’s greatest event returns for a three-week sale from September 15 to October 1, 2023. Filipino book lovers can discover new and exclusive titles with the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale’s vast collection of all brand-new books discounted at up to 95% off. 

Big Bad Wolf in Cebu 2023

WHAT: Big Bad Wolf Takes Over Cebu

WHEN: September 15, 2023 to October 1, 2023 // 10:00AM - 10:00PM (daily)

WHERE: SM Seaside City Cebu, LG level, Cube Wing

Big Bad Wolf Cebu to be held at SM Seaside City

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf Book Sale’s current and upcoming book sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram). #BBWCEBU2023

About Big Bad Wolf Books

The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone.

One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them.

Currently, Big Bad Wolf’s book sales have toured 15 countries and 37 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates.