This Week in Cebu (September 29 to October 5, 2019)

There is indeed a rainbow after the rain. In the case of the Queen City of the South, sunny weather comes right after the rain. Following somewhat gloomy weather for the past few weeks, sunny weather is expected at the start of the week in Cebu. But it’s still advisable to bring your umbrella since rain showers may come either in the morning or afternoon, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday. On these days, it’s best to avoid flood-prone areas in the city, including downtown Cebu and the Mambaling area. Old Sol will make a comeback on Thursday as partly sunny weather will continue until the weekend [1].

The Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (TEAM) implemented a new traffic scheme in one of the busiest intersections of the city. Motorists headed north through D.M. Cortes Street will have to turn right once they reach UN Avenue before passing through the U-turn slot under the Marcelo Fernan Bridge. After rejoining the traffic flow, they can make a right turn to the Cansaga Bridge or go straight to M.C. Briones Street. Meanwhile, southbound motorists coming from the Cansaga Bridge should turn right at the UN Avenue before making a left turn at P. Burgos Street. The new traffic scheme was implemented to prioritize motorists coming from the airport. TEAM executive director Florentino Nimor Jr. expects to finalize the scheme in a few days [2].

The “Going Green Campaign” of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) continues to gain ground. This comes as the private operator of the airport directed restaurants and retail stores of the airport to use eco-friendly containers. Andrew Harrison, chief executive advisor of GMR MEGAWIDE Cebu Airport Corporation (GMCAC), said the move was part of its commitment to environmental sustainability. He also said most of the concessionaires in Terminal 1 and 2 are now using biodegradable alternatives for their food containers, utensils, cups, and bags. This move has reduced its plastic waste by 30 percent since 2018. Moreover, 30 percent of the electricity needs of the airport come from 6,300 solar panels installed in Terminal 1. It is the first airport in the country using solar power for its electricity requirements [3].

Megaworld Corporation is planning to put up a two-level shopping mall in its Mactan Newtown estate. Chief strategy officer Kevin Tan said the booming tourism industry in Cebu holds more potential for the property giant. He added that the Megaworld Lifestyle Mall is inspired by the iconic coastline developments in South California. The PhP1.5-billion mall will feature a floor area of 30,000 square meters with a 1.4-hectare man-made lagoon in the center. It will innovate mall development and beach lifestyle in Cebu. The mall will also have four cinemas, a traveler’s lounge, a food hall, a view deck, and alfresco areas. Construction will start this year and expected project completion is in 2021 [4].

Resorts and hotels participating in the tourism program of the Cebu Provincial Capitol will receive help to enhance their services. Through its partner, Oyo Technology and Hospitality, the province will help enhance the amenities offered by resorts and hotels in component towns and cities. It will also provide the necessary training to boost services to meet international standards. Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia highlighted the importance of upgrading the local hospitality industry. Aside from the tourist spots, tourists should also be welcomed by clean amenities offered by resorts and hotels in Cebu. The move to upgrade the facilities and services is consistent with the move of the Capitol in promoting countryside tourism [5].

For the latest travel updates on the Queen City of the South, visit Yoorekka.