James Cuenco

Attention, motorists! 🚗⛽️

Please be informed of an upcoming oil price hike starting Tuesday, September 24, 2024. Expect the following increases:

Gasoline: ₱1.00 - ₱1.30 per liter ⬆️
Diesel: ₱0.10 - ₱0.40 per liter ⬆️
Kerosene: ₱0.10 - ₱0.20 per liter ⬆️
The final price adjustment will be announced on Monday, September 23, 2024.

Kindly plan your fuel needs in advance.

Warm congratulations to the qualified beneficiaries from Cebu City South District who received financial assistance through the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP).

🚦 Cebu City Records Over 74,000 Traffic Violations in First Half of 2024 🚦

From January to June 2024, Cebu City recorded 74,371 traffic violations, mostly due to ignoring traffic signs. The top infractions include:

22,492 citations for “No Stopping Anytime”
21,804 for “No Left Turn”
10,755 for parking in clamping zones
Motorists were also cited for ignoring yellow lane markings (12,358) and parking on sidewalks (6,962). Public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and motorcycle owners were the most common offenders.

CCTO's Jounald Bautista reminds everyone to obey traffic signs for safety and reduce congestion. Let’s work together for safer roads!

Cebu City Council Seeks Better Public Transport at Port Area

The Cebu City Council has called on the Cebu Ports Authority (CPA) to improve public transportation access at the city's ports, following concerns raised by Councilor Rey Gealon. Vulnerable travelers, including the elderly, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities, face long walks to find transport, while some drivers exploit the situation by overcharging passengers.

The council urged acting Mayor Raymond Garcia to work with the CPA to restore the previous transport system at the terminal and called on agencies like the CCTO, CCPO, PNP-HPG, LTO, and LTFRB to address illegal practices by public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers.

Under the leadership of Mayor Alvin Garcia, Cebu City is making strides toward becoming a top destination in Asia. With ongoing investments at South Road Properties (SRP) and a strong focus on business growth, our city is on the path to greater prosperity. Magkahiusa ta alang sa kalambuan ug kaayohan sa tanan.

🌍 DID YOU KNOW? 🌍

Sister-City relationships are more than just partnerships—they're powerful bonds that bring cities together for meaningful change! 🌱✨ Cebu City and Haarlemmermer, Netherlands, have teamed up for inspiring projects, including:

🚑 ERUF: The Philippines' top rescue unit, equipped for SARS and even nuclear-biological threats.
💧 Water & Waste Management: Driving Cebu’s climate adaptation and environmental sustainability.
🏥 CCMC: A ₱1M donation towards rebuilding Cebu City Medical Center.

Together, we build stronger communities for a better tomorrow!

🚦 MMDA Calls for Improvements in Cebu City's Traffic Light System 🚦

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) found that Cebu City's "modern" traffic light system needs upgrades. Their report highlighted issues such as a lack of real-time traffic management and pedestrian safety concerns, where signals for pedestrians and vehicles overlap.

Key recommendations include:

Enhancing real-time traffic processing.
Improving pedestrian safety features.
Expanding the Command Center for better management.

Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera endorsed these recommendations, aiming to improve Cebu’s traffic system for smoother and safer roads.

📢 Exciting Opportunity Alert! 📢

Don’t miss out on the Barangay Job Fair this Saturday, September 28, 2024! 🎉

🕗 Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Barangay Pit-os Gym, Cebu City

Meet top employers like:

Teleperformance
Señor San Jose Franchising Corp.
Savemore
SM Supermarket
SM Hypermarket
Ace Hardware
SM Appliance
Staffwise Solutions, Inc.
Ruiz Derma
J & K Consulting Inc.
Vastrack Manpower Corp.
Topserve Service Solutions Inc.
Pages Holdings, Inc.
Meralco Industrial Engineering Services Corporation (MIESCOR)
What to Bring: ✅ Updated resume or biodata
✅ Business Casual/Professional Attire

Good luck sa atong mga trabahanteng Sugbuanon! 🤙🌟 Let’s make your career dreams a reality!

Cebu City to Transition Old Buses to Electric Vehicles

The Cebu City Government plans to replace its old bus fleet with electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce carbon emissions and fuel costs. Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia announced on September 16, 2024, that the city will initially phase out 15-20 buses, in line with Republic Act 11697, which mandates converting 10% of government fleets to EVs.

Garcia highlighted potential savings, with the city spending P10-15 million per month on fuel. While electricity costs may rise, the switch to EVs is expected to offer both financial and environmental benefits. The City is considering different procurement options, including purchasing electric buses or service fee arrangements.

Suspended Mayor Michael Rama and City Councilor Joel Garganera support the initiative, while further studies and consultations with suppliers are ongoing. No timeline for implementation has been set yet.

The move to incorporate electric buses into our city’s transport system is a forward-thinking initiative that not only complies with national laws but also demonstrates a true commitment to modernity and environmental stewardship.

Central Visayas Announces Wage Increase for Workers

The Central Visayas Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) has approved a daily minimum wage increase for private sector workers, effective October 2. Workers in key cities like Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu will see a wage hike of ₱33-₱43 per day, raising the minimum to ₱501. Other cities and municipalities will also benefit, with wages rising to ₱463 and ₱453, depending on location. This increase will directly impact around 1.2 million workers and enhance benefits such as the 13th-month pay and social security contributions.

Cebu City Council Approves P384M Supplemental Budget for 2024

The Cebu City Council has approved the second Supplemental Budget (SB2) for 2024, amounting to P384 million. Key allocations include:

P145 million for garbage collection and disposal.
P100 million for street paving projects.
P39 million for scholarships under the Office of the Mayor.
P70 million for medicines and health services at the City Health Department.
P26 million for ICT equipment at Cebu City Medical Center.

Councilor Nestor Archival raised concerns about prioritizing the construction of a material recovery facility (MRF) over additional garbage collection funding. The council plans to include the MRF in the 2025 Annual Budget.

📢 NOTICE TO ALL RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMERS 📢

Visayan Electric has announced a rate increase of P0.95 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the September-October billing period. This raises the electricity rate from P12.57 to P13.52 per kWh. For an average household consuming 200 kWh per month, this will mean an additional P190 on your electricity bill.

The adjustment is due to increased transmission charges from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), following the resumption of the Ancillary Services-Reserve Market (AS-RM). This service is essential in maintaining a stable and reliable power supply for all.

Additionally, the rate hike covers the final installment of deferred payments for power purchases made through the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) last May.

💡 We encourage everyone to be mindful of energy consumption to manage electricity costs during this period.

📣 KARONG ADLAWA: PWD Financial Assistance Distribution 📣

Karong adlawa, Setyembre 14, 2024, magsugod na ang pag-apod-apod sa financial assistance alang sa atong mga kaigsuonang Persons with Disabilities (PWD). Para sa mga mo-qualify ug gustong mo-claim sa ilang cash assistance, pakiandam ang mosunod:

1️⃣ Inyong PWD ID (original, dili photocopy)
2️⃣ Kaugalingong ballpen

Daghang salamat sa inyong kooperasyon! Padayon kita sa pagtinabangay para sa kaayohan sa atong tanan.

Cebu City Moves to Solve Mambaling’s Long-Standing Garbage Problem

The Cebu City government, led by Acting Mayor Raymond Garcia, has committed to addressing the long-standing garbage problem in Barangay Mambaling. Piles of trash have blocked waterways, causing flooding and health concerns. Garcia has ordered a massive clean-up, and plans are underway to relocate 21 affected families. Barangay officials are hopeful this issue, which has plagued the area for decades, will finally be resolved.

PSA Warns Against Unauthorized Printing of Digital National IDs

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has issued a warning against illegal printing of digital national IDs on PVC cards or any physical materials. PSA-7’s Engr. Felixberto M. Sato Jr. emphasized that the Digital National ID and ePhilID are already valid and do not require printing.

Under the Philippine Identification System Act (RA 11055), unauthorized production or tampering of the PhilID is punishable by 3 to 6 years of imprisonment and fines of up to P3 million. The PSA urges the public to avoid engaging in these illegal activities and to report any suspicious offers.

Councilor James Cuenco Backs Senator Binay's Call to Scrap Cebu BRT Project

Councilor James Cuenco has expressed his support for Senator Nancy Binay's call to terminate foreign-assisted projects, including the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT), due to mismanagement and right-of-way issues. Cuenco believes scrapping the CBRT could pave the way for a more comprehensive mass transport solution for Cebu, combining land-rail transit, mass rapid transit, subways, and expressways. While he acknowledges the complexities involved, Cuenco emphasizes the importance of addressing these challenges to avoid further delays and losses.

DOTr Embraces Green Transportation

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is advancing its Public Transport Modernization Program with the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) to cut carbon emissions and promote renewable energy. Undersecretary Jesus Ferdinand Ortega also announced enhancements like new bike lanes, electric trains, hybrid ferries, and solar panels for airport terminals. These initiatives aim to foster greener, more sustainable urban transport.

Labor Group Pushes for P150 Wage Hike

A Cebu-based labor group, Alyansa sa mga Mamumuo sa Sugbo-KMU, expressed doubts that the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board in Central Visayas (RTWPB 7) will approve the proposed P150 wage hike, despite public hearings. Group chairman Jaime Paglinawan noted that past indications from the government suggest only a minimal increase is likely, leaving workers struggling with rising costs.

Paglinawan emphasized the need for a substantial wage increase to help workers cope with inflation and criticized the government for lacking a clear plan to address low wages and widespread contractualization. He pointed out that while worker productivity has surged by 88% from 1989 to 2023, wages have dropped by 22%. In contrast, major corporations have seen profits double in recent years.

Despite these challenges, Paglinawan urged workers to form unions and push for better wages, rather than relying solely on the RTWPB for adjustments.

Cebu City Council Eyes Stipend Hike for Barangay Health Workers (BHWs)

The Cebu City Council is considering raising the monthly stipend of barangay health workers (BHWs) from P7,500 to P10,000. Councilor Mary Ann De los Santos authored the resolution, citing the sacrifices of BHWs, especially in remote areas where they often spend their own money to assist patients.

With over 900 BHWs across 80 barangays, the proposal is being reviewed by the City Treasurer’s Office. Acting Mayor Raymond Garcia acknowledged the importance of the hike but expressed concerns over the City’s financial capacity to fund it.

Malipayong makita nga pinaagi sa panaghiusa sa tanang nagtinabangay, daghan kita natabangan ug natagaan og maayong kaugmaon ang atong mga kabataan.

Happy Osmeña Day!

Today, we honor the life and legacy of one of Cebu's greatest leaders, President Sergio Osmeña Sr. His remarkable contributions to our country's independence and his dedication to public service continue to inspire us. Let us remember his wisdom and leadership as we work towards building a better future for all.

BARANGAY JOB FAIR ALERT!

Looking for job opportunities? Don’t miss the Barangay Job Fair happening on September 14, 2024 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Barangay Buhisan Basketball Court in Cebu City!

Here’s your chance to meet and apply directly with top employers such as: ✅ iPloy, OPC
✅ The Abaca Group
✅ Concentrix
✅ Easy Services Incorporation
✅ Staffwise Solutions
✅ Topserve Service Solutions, Inc.
✅ Savemore
✅ San Jose Bakeshop
✅ Cebu Laborlink
✅ Azpired, Inc.
✅ Synergic Manpower

👉 How to apply? Just bring your updated resume or bio-data, and come in formal attire.

Seize this opportunity and jumpstart your career! 💼💪 See you there!

Another productive session last Wednesday with my fellow councilors as we worked together to push forward ordinances that will benefit our beloved Cebu City. From transportation to public health, we tackled key issues and made strides towards a safer, more efficient, and thriving city. Grateful for the teamwork and commitment of my colleagues, as we continue to serve with dedication.

Gov. Gwen Garcia continues to elevate Cebu on the global stage, fostering partnerships with global leaders like Acciona. Her leadership and tireless work for sustainable growth bring us closer to a better Cebu for all. We are grateful for her dedication and commitment to progress, both here and abroad.

Councilor Defends Motorists Amid License Plate Delays

City Councilor Rey Gealon, in a privilege speech delivered on Wednesday, September 4, expressed his concern for these motorists, explaining that they were lining up to collect their license plates at the LTO satellite office and were not obstructing traffic flow in the area.

Gealon pointed out that the motorists should not be blamed for the lack of regular license plates, asserting that the responsibility falls on the Land Transportation Office (LTO). "Sala sa LTO, mga tawo nagsakripisyo (The people are suffering due to LTO’s mistake)," Gealon said during his speech.

The issue stems from a memorandum issued by the LTO Central Office, which prompted LTO 7 to announce last August 21 that it would begin apprehending and impounding vehicles still using temporary or improvised license plates by September 1. However, after widespread criticism from motorists and lawmakers, the LTO headquarters postponed the enforcement of the memorandum to December 31, 2024.

📷The Freeman

Rep. Eduardo Rama Jr. Pushes for Smarter Transport Solutions

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cebu City South Representative Edu Rama is pushing for more comprehensive transportation solutions to improve the city’s traffic situation. While expressing support for the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project during the Department of Transportation's (DOTr) 2025 budget hearing, Rama emphasized the need for additional transport systems to better serve Cebu's growing population.

DOTr responded positively, revealing that they are considering a subway project for Metro Cebu, which has gained endorsements from local government units. Rama remains optimistic about the swift completion of the BRT’s first phase, which will provide much-needed relief to the city’s traffic congestion.

MCWD Begins Water Expansion in Upland Cebu

Over 5,000 households in nine upland barangays of Cebu City will soon have access to water after the Metro Cebu Water District (MCWD) launched its long-awaited expansion projects in Barangays Guba and Agsungot. The groundbreaking, led by MCWD Chairman Atty. Joey Daluz III and Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, was delayed for over a year due to permit issues under the previous administration.

Garcia prioritized signing the pending permits, enabling the projects to proceed, benefiting residents in Barangays Guba, Agsungot, Budlaan, Pulangbato, Cambinocot, Binaliw, Pit-os, and Mabini. The expansion is expected to be completed within 200 days, providing long-awaited water access to these communities.