Paul Garcia blog, Pitogo (2025)

08/07/2025

THIS IS A HACKED ACCOUNT. NINAKAW NI PAUL GARCIA BLOG!

BEWARE!
PinasMoRin: Here’s my new Page, if you need the PinasMoRin style of content:

https://www.facebook.com/share/16viWj7A1T/?mibextid=wwXIfr

07/07/2025

📍 The Jewel: Gokongwei Group’s Bold Vision for a Philippine Icon

The Gokongwei Group, through Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC), has launched “The Jewel”, a ₱25-billion landmark development poised to redefine the Mandaluyong skyline and elevate the Philippines’ architectural presence in Asia. Inspired by global icons like Marina Bay Sands, Petronas Twin Towers, and Taipei 101, this project is envisioned as a symbol of Filipino ingenuity and ambition.

🏙️ Project Overview

• Location: Corner of EDSA and Pioneer Street, Mandaluyong City (former Forum Robinsons site)
• Size: 2.5 hectares
• Target Completion: 2026
Components:
• Four premium office towers named after diamond cuts: Asscher, Trilliant, Marquise, and Peruzzi - collectively known as the ATMP Towers
• A modern lifestyle mall at the base
• 8-meter-high art installations featuring the Philippine eagle, tamaraw, tarsier, and butanding as symbolic “way finders”

🌟 Design & Vision

• Architectural design aims to rival Asia’s most iconic structures
• Features 12-meter-high lobbies and world-class amenities
• Emphasizes accessibility, visibility, and affinity — making it a magnet for global business and tourism
• Positioned to become a **cultural and commercial landmark** for Metro Manila

🏢 Impact on Nearby Communities

Residents of nearby Axis Residences and Gateway Regency Complex - both within walking distance — stand to benefit from:
• Enhanced property values
• Proximity to upscale retail and business hubs
• A more vibrant, walkable urban environment

📣 RLC Leadership Speaks

“ There has not been a single development in the Philippines that’s been able to stand out and keep up with such majestic structures. And with this, we present to you: “The Jewel”.
— Jericho Go, RLC SVP and Business Unit GM

Together, we stride confidently into the future, establishing new benchmarks and crafting spaces that surpass expectations.”
— Lance Gokongwei, RLC President and CEO

Info Source:
Rappler’s full feature on The Jewel
https://www.rappler.com/business/robinsons-land-gokongwei-launch-the-jewel-january-2024/
Manila Bulletin’s coverage of the launch
https://mb.com.ph/2024/1/31/robinsons-land-corporation-launches-the-jewel-manila-s-next-architectural-landmark

07/07/2025

📍 Samal-Davao Bridge Construction Continues Amid Environmental Legal Challenge

Despite the Supreme Court’s issuance of a Writ of Kalikasan on July 1, 2025, the *mDepartment of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has confirmed that construction of the ₱23.52-billion Samal Island–Davao City Connector (SIDC) Bridge is ongoing.

⚖️ What Is the Writ of Kalikasan?
A Writ of Kalikasan is a legal remedy under Philippine law that protects the constitutional right to a balanced and healthful ecology. It was granted in response to a petition filed by environmental advocates who claim the bridge construction is “causing actual, serious, and irreversible damage” to coral reefs in Paradise Reef (Samal) and the Hizon Marine Protected Area (Davao City).

🏗️ DPWH’s Position
- The DPWH emphasized that the project secured all required permits, including an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), before construction began.
- The agency stated that construction will continue unless halted by a Temporary Environmental Protection Order (TEPO) or similar directive from a competent court.
- As of June 2025, the project is 38% complete, with all foundation works finished on the Samal side and marine section, and Davao-side works nearing completion.

🌉 Project Overview
- Length: 4.76 kilometers
- Design: Toll-free, four-lane extradosed bridge
- Funding: Official Development Assistance (ODA) from China
- Completion Target: 2028
- Purpose: Reduce travel time between Davao City and Samal from 30 minutes (by ferry) to 5 minutes (by land)

🌱 Environmental & Legal Developments
- The Supreme Court ordered the DPWH, DENR, and other agencies to submit a verified return within 10 days of receiving the writ.
- The petitioners’ request for a TEPO has been referred to the Court of Appeals in Cagayan de Oro, which will decide whether to temporarily halt construction.

This case highlights the ongoing tension between infrastructure development and environmental protection. 🌉🌿🇵🇭

06/07/2025

📍 Educational Giant of the South: 🎓 University of Cebu Tops PH Private Universities

The University of Cebu (UC) has emerged as the largest private university in the Philippines, now serving over 60,000 students across five dynamic campuses: UC Main, Banilad, Lapu‑Lapu–Mandaue, Pardo‑Talisay, and the UC Maritime Education and Training Center.

Rooted in its founding mission of “Education for All”, UC continues to democratize quality learning while building a community that empowers the next generation of Filipino leaders.

🔎 Key Highlights

✅ Over 60,000 enrollees, marking UC as the country’s biggest private university
✅ Founded in 1964, formerly known as Cebu College of Commerce
✅ Offers a diverse suite of programs in:
- Engineering and IT
- Business and Accountancy
- Health Sciences and Nursing
- Maritime Studies (flagship)
- Law, Criminology, and Customs Administration
✅ Recognized by PACU-COA with one of the highest numbers of accredited programs nationwide
✅ Consistently ranks among top producers of board exam topnotchers

🛠️ What’s New

📈 Sustained growth across regional campuses in Cebu City, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and Talisay
🌐 Expanded global linkages in maritime education and international training
🎓 Investments in digital learning and inclusive academic programs for underrepresented sectors

🌏 Why It Matters

🏆 Reinforces Cebu’s role as a center of academic excellence outside Metro Manila
🌍 Creates pathways for social mobility through accessible private education
🇵🇭 Symbolizes Filipino resilience, community upliftment, and educational innovation
📣 A proud beacon of Cebuano excellence and national transformation through learning

This isn’t just a university - it’s a movement for equitable, future-ready education in the Philippines.

📷: University of Cebu / InfoCebu via Destination PH
🔎 Info Source:
InfoCebu page (original story)

06/07/2025

₱20 RICE PROJECT IS 'HERE TO STAY' — PRESIDENT MARCOS VOWS EXPANSION NATIONWIDE

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has affirmed that the administration’s flagship ₱20 per kilo rice initiative will not only continue but will also expand to more public markets across the country. The declaration reinforces the government's commitment to accessible and affordable food for Filipino families.

📌 This is just the beginning, the President said, signaling deeper efforts to support the agricultural sector and stabilize prices.

06/07/2025

📍 MMSU Unveils 8th Rice Paddy Art to Promote Agri-Tourism and Food Security

On July 7, 2025, Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) in Batac City, Ilocos Norte will unveil its eighth rice paddy art installation, a creative fusion of agriculture, science, and cultural pride. The ceremonial transplanting of seedlings marks another milestone in MMSU’s ongoing partnership with the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice).

🔎 Key Details

✅ Paddy Art Composition
- Rice Varieties Used:
- IR 1552 – a traditional purple rice variety from Korea
- NSIC Rc 222 – a high-yielding in**ed green rice variety
- Location: In front of the MMSU Administration Building
- Technique: Uses the ‘anamorphosis principle’, a 3D art method where the image appears proportionate from a specific vantage point

✅ Purpose & Impact
- Promotes high-yielding rice varieties to support food security
- Boosts eco-tourism by attracting visitors to the university’s agri-tech showcase
- Inspires youth to pursue careers in modern agriculture and agri-innovation

✅ Institutional Collaboration
- Jointly implemented by MMSU and PhilRice-Batac
- Supported by students, faculty, and local government units
- Part of MMSU’s broader commitment to sustainable rural development and agricultural education

📊 Why It Matters
📌 Reinforces Ilocos Norte’s role as a hub for agri-tourism and innovation
📌 Celebrates Filipino creativity in merging science, culture, and sustainability
📌 Encourages community engagement and youth participation in agriculture

📷: MMSU / PhilRice
🔎 Info Sources:
Philippine News Agency](https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1230974
MMSU Official Website
https://www.mmsu.edu.ph/news/rice-paddy-art-at-mmsu-now-open

06/07/2025

🚢 New Ferry Service Opens Gateway Between Surigao and Southern Leyte

A major stride in inter-island connectivity has been realized with the launch of a new ferry service connecting Lipata Ferry Terminal in Surigao City and the scenic town of Padre Burgos in Southern Leyte. Operated by ALD Sea Transport, the MV ANNTHER 8 began its maiden voyage on June 24, 2025, enhancing both passenger mobility and cargo logistics between Mindanao and Eastern Visayas.

🌊 Why It Matters

- Strategic Connection: Strengthens access between Surigao del Norte and Southern Leyte—bridging two regions vital to tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
- Tourism Catalyst: Padre Burgos, famed for over 30 pristine dive sites and its coastal charm, is now more accessible than ever.
- Economic Stimulus: The vessel accommodates both travelers and freight, supporting commercial vehicles, agricultural logistics, and tourism services.

🚍 MV ANNTHER 8
|Passenger Capacity: 387 persons (tourist & economy classes)
Vehicle Capacity: 18 units (10-wheeler trucks)

Fare (Tourist/Lying): ₱720 per head Fare (Economy/Lying): ₱450 per head
Other Seating Options:
500 (Aircon), ₱350 Economy seat)

Daily Trips: 1:00 AM & 1:00 PM departures
Travel Time: Approx. 3 hours

🚚 Vehicle Freight Services
Motorcycle (250cc and up): ₱2,500
Sedan, Multicab: ₱4,000
SUV, Van, Pick-up: ₱4,500
Commercial Van / Bongo Truck: ₱5,000
Medium Trucks: ₱7,500–₱12,000
Heavy Equipment (18–24 tons): ₱15,000–₱25,000 |

🛠️ Background & Build

- Year Built: 2024
- Origin: Zhejiang, China
- Previous Owner: Taizhou Xingzhou Shipping Company
- Acquired by: ALD Sea Transport
- Current Port of Operation: Puerto Nan Surigao

This development aligns with the Philippine Ports Authority'spush for greater interisland accessibility under the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ campaign. With safer, more frequent, and cost-effective sea travel, the MV ANNTHER 8 is more than just a vessel—it’s a bridge between progress and potential.

06/07/2025

🌍 2025 World Travel Index — Philippines’ Safest Cities

This list comes from the World Travel Index (WTI), which evaluates over 3,000 global cities using a comprehensive Safety Index. The index measures factors like daytime/nighttime safety, and the frequency of theft, violence, drugs, and scams .

⸻

🏆 Dumaguete: #1 in the Philippines
• Score: 81.36%, ranking 1,097th worldwide .
• Called the “City of Gentle People”, Dumaguete earned its top spot thanks to strong local initiatives—particularly collaboration between the city government, the Negros Oriental police (PRO‑NIR), and volunteers .
• The city boasts very low risks related to theft, drugs, violence, and scams. Both residents and tourists consistently report feeling very safe, whether day or night .

⸻

📋 Rest of the Top 10 (See image card)

⸻

✅ Why This Matters
• The ranking is based on actual visitor and resident perceptions, not assumptions.
• Dumaguete’s high score reflects a real sense of security—from well-lit streets to minimal petty crime.
• It highlights the successful public safety strategies: active policing, community involvement, and responsible local leadership .

⸻

✨ Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a safe travel destination in the Philippines for 2025, Dumaguete tops the charts with a notable margin. Davao, Bulacan, and Balanga also rank impressively—each scoring above 76%.

04/07/2025

📍 Island Luxury, Cebu Style: 🏝️ Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan

Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan continues to redefine tropical elegance in the Philippines, blending Balinese-inspired architecture with Cebuano warmth across its sprawling 6-hectare beachfront estate in Lapu-Lapu City. With recent upgrades and global recognition, it remains a crown jewel of Filipino hospitality.

🔎 Key Highlights

✅ 290 rooms and villas, including private pool villas and beachfront casitas
✅ Award-winning Aum Spa, hailed as the Philippines’ Best Resort Spa
✅ Dining destinations:
- Saffron Café – international buffet
- Enye by Chele Gonzalez – Spanish cuisine
- Azure Beach Club – cocktails by the sea
✅ Crimzone play area for kids and family-friendly amenities
✅ Infinity pool with panoramic views of Mactan waters
✅ Just 20 minutes from Mactan-Cebu International Airport

🛠️ What’s New

🛏️ Filinvest Hospitality Corp. is renovating **60 rooms** to elevate guest experience
🤖 Plans to integrate **AI-powered services** for smarter, more intuitive hospitality
🏨 Crimson Mactan is part of a growing portfolio including Crimson Boracay and Crimson Filinvest City Manila

🌏 Why It Matters

🌟 Listed in the Michelin Guide’s Recommended Hotels for luxury and intuitive service
🇵🇭 Showcases Filipino design, sustainability, and world-class hospitality
📣 Reinforces Cebu’s status as a premier tourism and wellness destination
🧳 Perfect for romantic escapes, family vacations, and solo retreats

This isn’t just a resort—it’s a sanctuary where Filipino excellence meets island serenity.

📷: Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan / Filinvest Hospitality
🔎 Info Source:
Crimson Hotel Official Site
http://www.crimsonhotel.com/mactan
Filinvest Hospitality Update
https://www.msn.com/en-ph/news/other/filinvest-hospitality-eyes-60-new-rooms-at-crimson-mactan/ar-AA1HQLiQ

04/07/2025

📍 Ramon Revilla Sr. Sports Arena Breaks Ground in Bacoor City

In a major push for inclusive infrastructure under the Bagong Pilipinas vision, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officially broke ground on the Ramon Revilla Sr. Sports Arena in Barangay Molino IV, Bacoor City, Cavite on July 4, 2025.

🔎 Key Highlights

✅ Strategic Development
- Located on a 5.2-hectare property, with 1.42 hectares allocated for Phase 1
- Backed by a ₱250 million initial budget from the 2024 General Appropriations Act
- Completion targeted by December 2025

✅ Community-Centered Design
- Features include:
- Road network & sidewalks
- Outdoor covered court & open activity area
- Monument plaza, statue, benches, and decorative walls
- Plant boxes and lighting installations
- Designed to promote physical fitness, healthy living, and community unity

✅ Leadership & Legacy
- Named in honor of the late Senator Ramon Revilla Sr., a cultural icon and public servant
- Groundbreaking attended by Mayor Strike B. Revilla and Rep. Lani Mercado Revilla
- DPWH Region 4A Director Jovel G. Mendoza emphasized the arena as “an investment in the future of the community’s health, well-being, and unity”

📊 Why It Matters
📌 Aligns with the “Build Better More” infrastructure program
📌 Reinforces Bacoor’s role as a rising urban hub in Cavite
📌 Honors local heritage while advancing public wellness

📷: DPWH / Bacoor LGU
🔎 Info Source:
DPWH Official Announcement
https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/news/38025
Bacoor City Government Video Feature
https://bacoor.gov.ph/videos/groundbreaking-ceremony-of-ramon-revilla-sr-sports-arena/

04/07/2025

📍 ICC Rejects Duterte’s Bid to Disqualify Judges in Drug War Case

In a unanimous decision dated July 3, the International Criminal Court (ICC) denied former President Rodrigo Duterte’s request to disqualify two judges - Reine Alapini-Gansou and María del Socorro Flores Liera - from deliberating on his challenge to the ICC’s jurisdiction over alleged crimes against humanity committed during his administration’s war on drugs.

🔎 Key Highlights

✅ Judicial Independence Affirmed
- ICC ruled no appearance of bias or partiality in the judges’ prior rulings
- Judges are permitted to reassess jurisdictional issues at different stages of a case
- Decision clears the way for Pre-Trial Chamber I to proceed with jurisdictional review

✅ Case Background
- Duterte faces charges related to thousands of alleged extrajudicial killings from 2011 to 2019
- ICC maintains jurisdiction despite the Philippines’ withdrawal from the Rome Statute in 2019
- Duterte was surrendered to the ICC in March 2025 and remains in custody in The Hague

📊 Why It Matters
📌 Reinforces ICC’s commitment to impartial legal proceedings
📌 Signals continued momentum in the investigation of Duterte’s drug war
📌 Sets precedent for judicial conduct in international tribunals

📷: ICC / Philippine Star
🔎 Info Source:
ICC Official Case Page
https://www.icc-cpi.int/philippines/duterte
Manila Times Coverage
https://www.msn.com/en-ph/news/national/icc-rejects-duterte-bid-to-disqualify-judges-in-drug-war-case/ar-AA1HWrUn
Philippine News Agency Report
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1253582)

04/07/2025

📍 Thunder Consortium Wins P36B CBK Hydro Complex Auction

In a major boost for renewable energy in the Philippines, the Thunder Consortium - composed of Aboitiz Renewables Inc., Sumitomo Corp., and Electric Power Development Co. (J-Power) - has officially won the auction for the 797-megawatt Caliraya-Botocan-Kalayaan (CBK) hydroelectric power complex in Laguna. The winning bid of ₱36.266 billion far surpassed the ₱19.6 billion offer from the rival FGKW Consortium, backed by First Gen Prime Energy and Korea Water Resources Corp.

🔎 Key Highlights

✅ Strategic Asset Acquisition
- CBK complex includes Caliraya, Botocan, and Kalayaan I & II hydro plants
- Operates under a build-rehabilitate-operate-transfer agreement until 2026
- Vital to Luzon’s grid stability and renewable energy supply

✅ Global Collaboration
- Thunder Consortium combines Filipino leadership with Japanese expertise
- Marks a significant milestone in foreign investment in Philippine energy infrastructure
- Sumitomo and J-Power previously co-managed CBK under CBK Power Co. Ltd. since 2001

📊 Why It Matters
📌 Strengthens Aboitiz’s clean energy portfolio toward its 2030 goals
📌 Aligns with PSALM’s mandate to privatize assets and reduce liabilities
📌 Signals rising investor confidence in Philippine renewable energy

📷: CBK Power Company Ltd. / PSALM
🔎 Info Source:
BusinessWorld Overview
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2023/12/27/565526/sn-aboitiz-keen-on-cbk-hydro-plants/
Inquirer Biz Buzz Feature
https://business.inquirer.net/534083/biz-buzz-aboitiz-led-thunder-consortium-poised-to-bag-cbk
Philippine Star Coverage
https://qa.philstar.com/business/2025/07/04/2455288/aboitiz-lopez-groups-shortlisted-bid-laguna-hydropower-plant

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