In a recently released discussion paper, PIDS warned that many Philippine cities rank among the most vulnerable in Asia in terms of water security — a situation expected to worsen as climate change, rapid urbanization, and population growth intensify pressure on both surface and groundwater sources.

The study found that across 532 water districts nationwide, annual demand consistently exceeds effective supply, resulting in persistent service gaps even in areas where raw water is technically available.

An estimated 12.4 million Filipinos still lack access to safe water. While national water access stands at 87.7%, less than half of households have piped connections at home, and 332 municipalities remain classified as “water-less.”

According to data from the National Water Resources Board, the Philippines has an estimated annual groundwater supply of 20,200 million cubic meters (m³) and surface water supply of 206,230 million m³ — bringing total mean annual water availability to around 226,430 million m³.

Yet the report stressed that the country’s challenge is not primarily a lack of raw water, but deficiencies in infrastructure, governance, and sustainable management.

Rapid urban population growth, water pollution, inefficient usage, deforestation in critical watersheds, and saltwater intrusion due to excessive groundwater extraction are placing significant strain on supply — particularly in highly urbanized areas such as Metro Manila, Cebu City, and Davao City.

The paper, authored by PIDS supervising research specialist Adrian Agbon, noted that as the country’s population rose from 77 million in 2000 to over 103 million in 2016, annual per capita water availability fell sharply from 1,907 cubic meters to just 1,400 cubic meters.

Water quality is also deteriorating. Of the country’s 623 classified water bodies, only a small number meet the highest potable standard.

A major structural concern is the country’s heavy and growing dependence on groundwater — the primary source for most water districts. Increasing extraction heightens the risks of contamination, saline intrusion, falling water tables, and further degradation of water quality.

Governance fragmentation compounds the problem. Around 30 public sector agencies — at both national and local levels — share overlapping responsibilities for water quality, watershed management, irrigation, hydropower, sanitation, flood control, research, and supply. Weak coordination and overlapping mandates often delay permitting, infrastructure investments, and service expansion.

The study emphasized that addressing fragmented water governance must be a national priority.

“Securing the Philippines’ water future requires shifting from fragmented, source-specific responses toward integrated planning, stronger monitoring, and better-supported water service providers,” the paper stated.

To enhance long-term water security, the report recommends strengthening the institutional and technical capacity of water districts, expanding infrastructure investments, and improving groundwater and surface-water monitoring systems.

Among the proposed solutions are blended financing mechanisms — combining public grants with concessional loans — to support treatment facility upgrades, reduce distribution losses, and build climate-resilient infrastructure.

Ultimately, the study concluded, improving water service reliability will require tighter institutional coordination, strategic investments, and pricing and financing frameworks that balance affordability with long-term sustainability.

According to Roque, supermarkets inspected were fully compliant with the automatic price freeze covering essential goods such as sardines, instant noodles, bread, coffee, processed milk, salt, bottled water, candles, and laundry soap.

“Iyong mga presyong na-monitor natin ngayon are even below the prices set by the DTI, so maganda itong balita dahil sumusunod ang mga grocery at supermarket sa direktiba ng ating Pangulo tungkol sa nationwide price freeze for the next 60 days,” the trade chief said.

Roque, accompanied by central and regional officials, inspected several major retail establishments including Gaisano Grand Fiesta Mall in Talisay, GMall Supermarket on Soriano Avenue, SM Supermarket in Mabolo, and Pacific Mall Metro Supermarket in Mandaue. The team reported no major violations and observed sufficient inventory levels throughout all stores visited.

To strengthen consumer protection during the 60-day price freeze period, DTI has mobilized monitoring teams nationwide to conduct daily field inspections, particularly in typhoon-affected communities. As of November 10, the Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) also reported stable prices and adequate supply in Metro Manila after checking 75 firms across various districts.

Under Republic Act No. 7581, or the Price Act, prices of basic necessities automatically revert to prevailing levels and remain frozen for 60 days in areas declared under a state of calamity.

Businesses found violating the automatic price freeze may face administrative and criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to 10 years and fines of up to ₱1 million. Establishments selling beyond the mandated prevailing prices will be issued a Notice of Violation and required to submit a response within 48 hours.

The latest distribution is part of sustained support from both government and private sector partners as communities continue to deal with the typhoon’s heavy impact and the flooding that followed.

Employee-volunteers from San Miguel’s Cebu facilities distributed food packs — composed of San Miguel-produced goods and other essentials — across evacuation sites in Mandaue City, Cebu City, and the northern towns of Consolacion, Liloan, and Compostela.

SMC also deployed teams to provide clean, safe drinking water amid disrupted supply lines in several affected areas.

Local disaster officials report that many households remain displaced, with damaged homes and lost income delaying recovery efforts. Typhoon Tino hit just a month after a magnitude-6.9 earthquake rocked the province, worsening losses for families still trying to rebuild.

“Cebu has gone through challenges no community should experience in such quick succession. Our thoughts are with everyone there, including our own people, as they work to recover,” SMC Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang said.

Meanwhile, employees across the San Miguel Group are raising funds through the Tulong para sa Pagbangon initiative to support families affected not only by Typhoon Tino but also Typhoon Uwan in other parts of the country.

Frasco emphasized that public areas, commercial centers, hotels, and tourism sites not affected by the tremor have been declared safe for visitors. She added that the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) and Cebu’s major ports continue normal operations, ensuring that flights and ferry services remain undisrupted.

“We wish to clarify that here in the northern part of Cebu, relief efforts continue and many tourist sites remain closed. However, other parts of Cebu remain open to tourism. These include Mandaue City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan, and other areas in the south of the province,” Secretary Frasco told reporters.

She encouraged tourists to coordinate with tour operators and travel agencies for updated advisories. “Again, tuloy po ang turismo dito sa Cebu,” Frasco affirmed, stressing that reliable information and proper coordination are key for a safe and enjoyable visit.

In its latest advisory, the DOT noted that while Cebu remains under a state of calamity, visitors may continue exploring the central and southern parts of the province. Tourists are advised, however, to anticipate possible road closures, limited services, and ongoing inspections in some areas.

Attractions currently open to the public include canyoneering in Badian, island-hopping adventures in Moalboal, and visits to cultural landmarks such as the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in Cebu City and the Lapu-Lapu Shrine in Lapu-Lapu City.

Following the September 30 magnitude 6.9 earthquake, Secretary Frasco immediately returned to Cebu, accompanying President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other cabinet officials in conducting inspections. On October 4, she personally visited the hard-hit towns of Medellin and San Remigio, as well as ground zero in Bogo City, where she distributed ₱3,000 in personal financial aid to 50 affected tourism workers.

Frasco reaffirmed the DOT’s commitment to balancing safety and tourism continuity: “We remain vigilant, but we also want to reassure our tourists and tourism workers that Cebu is open and ready to welcome visitors. Tourism plays a vital role in recovery, and Cebu will continue to rise stronger.”

Cebu, long known for its beaches, heritage, and hospitality, is now emerging as one of the Philippines’ strongest stories in tourism and investment. With global recognition and rising market momentum, the Queen City of the South is gaining ground as a prime destination for both luxury travelers and property investors.

The Michelin Guide recently expanded its Philippine hotel list to 20 properties, naming Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort—developed by Cebu-based AppleOne Group—as one of the standouts. The recognition affirms Mactan’s growing status as a contender for global luxury living.

“Being included in the Michelin Guide shows how Cebu is setting new benchmarks for luxury hospitality. We are proud to put Mactan Island on the global stage with experiences that are rooted in place yet world-class in execution,” said Dottie Wurgler-Cronin, General Manager, Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort.

This recognition comes amid a global surge in branded residences, which command a 30–40% premium and are projected to grow by 70% in the next five years, according to Global Branded Residences (GBR). The Philippines is mirroring this trend, with Cebu leading growth as highlighted in the 2026 Philippine Hotel Industry Outlook by Leechiu Properties.

At the center of this momentum is The Residences at Sheraton Cebu Mactan, which offers buyers not just ownership but access to resort amenities and the prestige of the Sheraton brand.

“The demand for branded residences reflects a shift in how people invest. They want lifestyle and long-term value. With Cebu’s rise as a luxury hub, The Residences at Sheraton Cebu Mactan delivers both,” said Leif Bajarias, CFO, AppleOne Group.

For travelers, Cebu promises world-class experiences. For investors, it signals a market on the rise—making Cebu one of the Philippines’ most attractive destinations for tourism and real estate.

Recognizing the adverse economic and income impact of the pandemic on Filipinos wherein more than 50 percent of the MSMEs have closed down, and the need to recover is empirical, Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI) unveiled WorkNook, its first co-working space, at Base Line Center located along Juana Osmeña Street in Cebu City.

Given the growing confidence of investors in the Philippines and Cebu being one of the key provincial cities that boasts its growing investors from both foreign and local companies, including start-up entrepreneurs, CLI sees the need to support them by establishing WorkNook, Cebu’s newest co-working spaces hub.

It noted that this will encourage more freelancers, small businesses, and students to develop their enterprising spirit. At the same time, have their professional office space equipped with high-speed internet, office-grade furniture, secure lockers, and a pantry with coffee where they can work, hold meetings, and collaborate with the members of the WorkNook community, among others.

“WorkNook reflects our vision of creating spaces where today’s professionals can thrive,” said Joanna Soberano-Bergundthal, CLI’s SVP for Marketing and Leasing. “We’re excited to contribute to Cebu’s dynamic remote work and business scene.”

Meeting Cebu’s Growing Demand for Flexible Workspaces

A study by Cisco conducted in 2022 revealed that 37% of Filipino workers feel traditional office setups limit their potential, highlighting the need for spaces like WorkNook. “Our goal is to support professionals seeking alternatives to working from home in a modern, positive work environment,” Soberano-Bergundthal added.

Designed with productivity and comfort in mind, WorkNook offers “ A fresh way to work” with its modern, fresh aesthetic and a variety of amenities tailored to different professional needs. These include private offices for teams and groups, co-working spaces for individuals, and fully equipped meeting rooms for discussions or presentations. It also boasts high-speed internet, office-grade furniture, secure lockers, and a pantry with coffee. 

Flexible workspaces are available at competitive introductory rates starting at ₱250 for half day, ₱350 for whole day, ₱1,800/weekly, ₱5,500/monthly and affordable rates for private office spaces at ₱9,000/monthly, dedicated seats at ₱7,500/monthly, and meeting rooms of various sizes for 4-hour use designed for professionals and teams. 

WorkNook is strategically located at Base Line Center, a modern mixed-use development where professionals can enjoy comfort and convenience situated along Ascott branded hotels Citadines Cebu City and lyf Cebu City, residential condominiums, an office building and various dining and leisure options, seamlessly blending work and relaxation.

WorkNook also marks a milestone in CLI’s business diversification. Known for its expertise in residential, office, and mixed-use developments, CLI has seen significant growth in its commercial leasing portfolio. The company reported a 47% year-on-year increase in leasing revenues, with 9,219 sqm of new leasable space in its portfolio. WorkNook contributes to this expansion, along with an additional 32,196 sqm of leasable space in the pipeline.

WorkNook is open Monday to Saturdays, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and 24/7 access to private offices. For more information, visit the CLI website or contact the WorkNook team at https://worknook.ph/.

Revered poet, John Donne composed the poem “No man is an island” to depict the importance of community, of being with others, and the tragedy of being alone. To be part of a community contributes to our wellbeing, and encourages us to collaborate with others in creating an environment that espouses a sense of belongingness, security and purpose.

This is what lyf aims to achieve when they bring to Cebu City a co-living and community-centric service that exudes with vibrance, energy and positivity as they officially opened on January 16, not just to welcome the New Year but also to seize the opportunities in the auspicious Year of the Dragon.

Philip Barnes, Country General Manager, graced the grand opening and also joined by Rey Vergel Mulat, lyf Champion (Residence Manager) of lyf Cebu City; Mathias Bergundthal, Director of Hotels and Assets of Cebu Landmaster’s; Jose Franco Soberano, SEVP and COO of Cebu Landmaster’s; Jose Soberano III, ⁠Cebu Landmaster’s Chairman and CEO; Mike Rama, Mayor of Cebu City; Judy Gabato, Chief Tourism Operations Officer of DOT – Central Visayas; and Atty. Jocelyn Pesquerra, Cebu City Councilor. These notable individuals took the spotlight during the digital ribbon-cutting ceremony, setting the tone for an unforgettable travel experience.

lyf Cebu City is one of the properties developed by Cebu Landmasters INC., Visayas-based firm, alongside Citadines Cebu City, Citadines Bacolod City, and Citadines Paragon Davao.

lyf Cebu City also serves as the perfect launchpad for guests to effortlessly explore the bustling city. Situated just steps away from the property are lively bars, pubs, and social hotspots, offering a dynamic and exciting nightlife experience.

With lyf strategically located amidst the city’s pulse, guests can easily navigate to renowned social spots, ensuring that every corner of Cebu becomes an accessible playground for exploration, enjoyment, and fun to beat the humdrum of the daily work grind. And if you’re in business with pleasure, the place fits to a T for a perfect nightlife whether you’d like to sip a glass of wine or have a scalding hot cup of coffee.

If you just want to relax and enjoy your “me-time”, lyf also provides a haven for you where everything you need is there.

There’s a lot to explore and enjoy in the area such as a trendy bar, a cultural event, or a social gathering, the convenience of lyf’s central location ensures that guests are never far from the heartbeat of Cebu’s vibrant lifestyle.

Vibe with the crew today at lyf Cebu City today with their introduction rates starting at PHP3,000 for their “One Of A Kind” or “Side By Side” (good for two) rooms, their All Together 2BR for P5,500 (good for 4), or the 4BR for PHP10,000 (good for 6). Book your stay through their website at https://www.discoverasr.com/en/lyf/philippines/lyf-cebu-city.

With the upward trajectory in the demand for real estate property in the Philippines, whether as long term investment or quick return, the construction boom will support this gap.

According to KMC Savills’ Regional Office Briefing, the outlook for the country’s top cities of Cebu, Clark, Davao, Iloilo, and Bacolod remain resilient and are bound to reach the pre-pandemmic level in terms of demand.

Speaking in the briefing, KMC Savills Executive Director John Corpus discussed the general situation in Metro Cebu and h said, “The market is expected to withstand any supply pressure as the IT-BPM sector increases its presence in regional cities. Due to the recovery in demand, Cebu’s vacancy rate is forecasted to return to pre-pandemic levels by 2025.”

The country’s leading real estate brokerage and consultancy firm, also pointed out that the Cebu Fringe will likely delay this as the lack of leasing activity persists. However, they do not discount the possibility that a brisk upswing may happen if inventory in CBD and CITP decline rapidly. While In Metro Clark, the market continues to struggle with its vacancy rate rising to 33.6% in 1H/2023 as one of the few remaining vestiges of the POGO sector leaves. Office buildings outside of CFZ have performed better with their vacancy rate averaging 25.3% in the same period. Although the overall vacancy rate is higher than some submarkets in Metro Manila, leasing activity in Metro Clark has been healthier in the capital – albeit at specific locations only. In Davao, KMC Savills Associate Director Joshua De Las Alas reports that the city’’s overall vacancy rate dropped to 6.4% from 12.1% at the end of 2022.

The market has continuously outperformed expectations after the vacancy rate peaked at 21.9% in 3Q/2021. Davao remains one of the most affordable markets in the country amidst the influx of demand from outsourcing firms. Unlike the other office markets in VisMin, Davao still lacks a sizeable cluster of townships that can command above-average rates. However, KMC Savills forecasts that the current demand trend may be an opportunity for developers to rethink their strategy in the region.

In Iloilo, KMC Savills Chief Operating Officer Cha Carbonell shared that the city’s overall vacancy rate rose to 8.1% after the completion of Cybergate Iloilo Tower 2 in Pavia. Grade B stock saw a massive drop in its vacancy rate to 13.1% from 22.7% at the end of 2022. The report is optimistic that vacancy rates should remain in single digits despite another 22,500 sq m of new office space in 2H/2023.

In Bacolod, market occupancy remained low with a vacancy rate of 13.5% as demand continued to struggle. Leasing activity may improve in the coming quarters as demand is expected to spill over from neighboring Iloilo. Conditions are expected to be static in the next term, but leasing activity has picked up in recent months. The report does not discount the possibility of demand accelerating in 2024 due to the tight conditions in Iloilo. Given how quickly demand poured into its neighboring city, similar action by the market is expected in Bacolod.

Overall, KMC Savills reports that the total office stock in Iloilo, Bacolod, and Davao are not as sizeable as Metro Cebu or Metro Clark, however, the increased demand for these markets should trigger developers to construct new Grade A office buildings or introduce new business districts. KMC Savills is optimistic that these markets will continue to grow with the expansion of the IT-BPM sector outside Metro Manila.

Called the “Saving and Internal Lending Communities,” or SILC, these saving and lending groups are composed of out-of-school youth trained by USAID’s Opportunity 2.0 project and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on technical-vocational skills as well as entrepreneurship.

USAID partnered with Catholic Relief Services Philippines to implement the savings and lending approach of SILC to give the youth essential skills in finance and business.  The youth work with their peers to pool their resources, save up for their needs, and have a support group as they venture into small enterprises.

USAID Philippines Director for Education Thomas LeBlanc said that these interventions “provide the out-of-school youth with a solid financial foundation so that they can work toward their dreams of pursuing further education, applying for jobs, or starting their own businesses.” 

The youth, organized in five cities, have saved a total of Php620,000 since January 2021.  To date, these groups have loaned out Php320,000 to support education, training, livelihood, and other emergency needs of its youth members.  To celebrate the successful pilot, USAID hosted a learning event on May 9-10 in Cebu to look at the program implementation in the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Cotabato, and Quezon City.   

As the host, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, who chairs the USAID-supported Youth Development Alliance in the city, acknowledged USAID as “a longtime partner in development” and thanked the program for “equipping the youth with the skills for us to be able to take on the challenges of the future.” 

A youth member of a SILC group in Quezon City, Jerhom Trigosa, shared how the group used their funds to invest in a small business with local urban farmers.  “We learned how to rotate and grow our savings through entrepreneurship.  We took a loan from our group savings to invest and create pumpkin cookie samples.  We wanted to help farmers in the community and also increase their sales as well as to promote healthier eating options.” 

USAID is looking to sustain and scale up this approach and content through a partnership with TESDA, which has used its local and community-based training institutions to support the youth groups across the country.

Be prepared to be captivated by the biggest wedding event: Cebu Wedding Expo 2022. As one of the grandest events of the year, we want to be able to promote more than just accessibility – having everyone get the chance to engage with their possible wedding organizers, suppliers, and partners to envision one of the biggest and most memorable days of their lives. We’ve got tons of perks awaiting you — apart from having everything you’ll ever need to plan your big day all in one place, guests can come and book on the spot and get a hold of exclusive deals! 

This year, we’ve chosen the theme: “Starry Starry Night.” Through this, we want to be able to convey a story to our beloved guests — that the sky’s the limit when it comes to envisioning their big day. We want to instill a feeling of importance and remind our guests that their big day will be all about them amidst all the glitter and glamor this event holds.

Showcasing nothing less than world class talents and couture pieces all in one stage, this year’s event also features “Gugma – Weddings at Waterfront” a bridal fashion show. Featuring the works of 25 local artists in collaboration with Cary Santiago. Through this, models will be walking the runway wearing none other than these designers’ stunning pieces — also something our guests can look forward to as they envision themselves walking the runway of their lives in partnership with Dia Gold and Iconique Mall, Colon.