E-News | Elias J. TV. and Ms Beverly Shine Bright at Manila International Fashion Week 2025!

PARAÑAQUE CITY, NCR — Last June 8, 2025, the iconic Okada Manila became the ultimate runway for Manila International Fashion Week, and guess who stole the spotlight? None other than Elias J. Tv. together with the amazing Ma’am Beverly! 

Their presence was nothing short of spectacular—truly “ibang level” vibes all the way! The energy, the style, and the passion they brought to the event were unforgettable. We’re so proud to see such talent and dedication shining on a prestigious platform like this. Hats off to you both! 

Special shoutout to the wonderful Beverly P. Labadlabad for capturing these moments — your photos speak volumes and make us all want to be part of this fabulous celebration of fashion and creativity! 📸

Congrats again to Elias J. Tv., Ms. Beverly, and the whole team behind this spectacular showcase. Keep soaring higher! 🚀✨

Davao Biznes | Davao Drives Into History with Starbucks' First Mindanao Drive-Thru!

Starbucks Opens First Drive-Thru Store in Mindanao, Expands Presence in Davao City

Davao City, Philippines — Starbucks Philippines has officially opened its first drive-thru store in Mindanao, strategically located at the bustling Damosa Complex in Davao City. This new outlet marks the sixth branch in the city and represents a significant milestone in the brand’s regional expansion.

The new drive-thru concept aims to offer greater convenience to coffee lovers in Davao’s fast-growing urban landscape, catering to both loyal customers and new markets in one of Mindanao’s most economically dynamic areas.

Noey T. Lopez, President of Rustan Coffee Corporation—the official licensee of Starbucks in the Philippines—expressed his enthusiasm for the region’s promising market potential.

"I'm amazed how strong the business is here; it's really growing, even when we started. It’s a great sign—there’s so much opportunity, not just in Davao but across Mindanao," Lopez said.

The opening of the Damosa drive-thru store underscores Starbucks' commitment to evolving alongside the needs of its customers while contributing to the continued economic vibrancy of Davao City. With its sleek design, accessible location, and signature Starbucks experience, the new store is set to become a favorite stop for Dabawenyos on the go.

As Davao City continues to thrive as a commercial hub, the entry of innovative retail formats like the Starbucks drive-thru is a reflection of the region’s dynamic consumer landscape—and a strong signal of more to come.

Photo / source: Damosa Land official | Facebook 

#StarbucksPhilippines #DamosaLand #DavaoCity #Davao #Mindanao #MindaNOW #StarbucksDavao

CONSTRUCTION OF MINDANAO'S LONGEST BRIDGE NOW HALFWAY DONE

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Acting Secretary Roger G. Mercado is keen to make the most of his remaining few days as member of the Cabinet of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte administration. 

Secretary Mercado declared that although time is running out for the term of President Duterte will end this June 30, his duty to the public is far from over and will not take a pause in fulfilling the enormous job at DPWH of providing the Filipino people with quality infrastructure. 

The DPWH Chief together with Undersecretary and Build Build Build Chief Implementer Emil K. Sadain inspected on Wednesday, June 1, 2022 the on-going Panguil Bay Bridge Project, listed among the 119 infrastructure flagship projects under the “Build, Build, Build” Program. 

The two (2) officials were joined in the project visit by Undersecretary for Mindanao Operations Eugenio R. Pipo Jr.; Lanao Del Norte Governor Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo and Congresman Abdullah D. Dimaporo; Assistant Secretaries Ador G. Canlas, Antonio V. Molano Jr., Wilfredo S. Mallari, Mel John I. Verzosa and Rolito D. Manalo; and Project Director Sharif Madsmo H. Hasim and Project Manager Teresita V. Bauzon of DPWH Unified Project Management Office (UPMO) Roads Management Cluster 2 (Multilateral). 

When finished, the 3.17 kilometer two-way two-lane Panguil Bay Bridge, which will link Tangub City in Misamis Occidental with the Municipality of Tubod in Lanao del Norte, will be Mindanao’s longest bridge.

With funding assistance from South Korea, the ₱7.37 Billion project is being implemented by the DPWH UPMO Operations. 

Undersecretary Sadain, in-charge of DPWH UPMO Operations, reported in his briefing that the project has achieved 51.4 percent completion to date, recovering from the delays in the delivery of equipment and materials in 2020 brought about by the unprecedented impacts of the global coronavirus pandemic. 

“I am delighted that the work is now progressing at a faster pace using state-of-the-art engineering equipment and adopting modern technology in bridge construction”, added Secretary Mercado.  

The bridge project that has gained the full support of the Provincial Government of Lanao Del Norte and Misamis Occidental has an established Multi-Partite Monitoring Team to properly monitor and successfully implement the Panguil Bay Bridge Project. 

Targetted for completion by December 2023, the Panguil Bay Bridge Project will make commuting easier as it will only take 7 minutes from Tangub to Tubod compared to 1 hour and 30 minutes via Roll-On Roll-Off vessels operating from Ozamis to Mucas or land travel through Panguil Bay road of 2 to 2 and a half hours over a total length of 100 kilometers. 

Source and Photos: 

Department of Public Works and Highways

Economy | Mindanao Star Bus to travel in Islamic City of Marawi

A Star will shine bright to the Islamic City.

Last November 2021, LTFRB Region XI opened a franchise application under the Memorandum Circular No. 2021-072 with a route of Davao City - Marawi City via Kalilangan/Talakag/Cagayan De Oro City/Iligan City

This 431-kilometer route will connect Davao City to the Islamic City of Marawi, this route will be beneficial to both cities as the latter is still recovering from the ashes from the war that ravaged the city 5 years ago. 

It will also boost the inter-regional connections and progress as this route will traverse 3 regions of Mindanao, namely the Davao Region, Northern Mindanao, and BARMM. It will also help the people of BARMM especially the people of Marawi City to different aspects of life and opportunities in neighboring cities and help them to recover from the damages of war that flattened the city in 2017.

On December 1 of the same year, LTFRB Region 11 declared the Mindanao Star Bus Transport Inc. as the winner and pioneer company that will serve this newly-opened Friendship Route, utilizing fifteen (15) units of Viking Series 11th Generation Airconditioned Bus units and Kinglong XMQ6107AYW Non-Airconditioned Bus Units.

Official schedule of trips from Mindanao Star Bus:

DAVAO CITY - MARAWI CITY

5:00 A.M 

7:00 A.M

9:00 A.M

MARAWI CITY - DAVAO CITY

5:00 A.M

7:00 A.M

9:00 A.M

FARE: 800 (For Non-Airconditioned Bus).

950 (Airconditioned Bus)

For more questions in inquiries, please do visit the official Facebook page of Mindanao Star Bus Transit Inc.

(https://www.facebook.com/msbti)

About the bus:

Mindanao Star 15686

Manufacturer: Vallacar Transit Incorporated - Transport Engineering and Bus Body Assembly Plant (VTI-TEBBAP)

Bus Model: Viking 11th Generation

Chassis: Hino RK8J-SUA

Engine: Hino J08E-UB

Former route: Davao City - Cotabato City

New route: Davao City - Marawi City Via Kalilangan/Talakag/Cagayan De Oro City/Iligan City

📷 Jed Tekz Mendoza

News | Davaoeño Discriminated in another City of Mindanao due to Covid19

Davao City, Davao
A fellow Davaoeño who's name is Bong Chavez experienced discrimination in Valencia City, Bukidnon due to covid 19 number of infection in Davao City.

In his post in Facebook account, and he quote,
"I’m discriminated today. I stop over to have lunch and I'm excited to be in a mall feeling the normality. When I enter the main entrance as usual you show your company ID as protocol. The guard check it. While checking and looking at me. She said your from Davao sir?, Yes miss and I'm proud in saying it! She told me you cannot enter the mall and I ask her and why? That’s the advise of the management. I didn’t argue anymore the line is long already I’m causing traffic. I move away and ask my self.. Before if your from Davao City and visiting different places people are very welcoming and hospitable. But now,  time change... Fellow Dabawenyo let’s embrace this new normal. This is due to covid 19 no. of infected persons in Davao City. It’s a fact!"

Photo: Bong Chavez / Facebook 

AgriBusiness | Asian Fruit Market in Mindanao

Infront of the Abreeza Mall

DAVAO CITY, Philippines
-- Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr. early on shared his vision that Davao is the "largest fruit market" in this part of the world. Following through, our department and its infrastructure arm, Tourism Infrastructure Enterprise Authority (TIEZA), and ACCENDO Commercial Corporation, owning company of Abreeza Mall in Davao City, have signed an agreement to put up the Asian Fruit Market (Phase 1) in Abreeza Mall, Davao City, Mindanao.

The Asian Fruit Market (Phase 1) will be a short-term venue to showcase the agricultural produce of Mindanao particularly offering high value fruits, commercial crops, root crops, and vegetables. The project aims to encourage active involvement and participation of the farming communities in the regions of Mindanao and eventually establish in Mindanao one facility to be one of the largest fruit market exchange centers in Asia.

ACCENDO has expressed full support for the tourism efforts of the national government and specifically for the Asian Fruit Market (Phase 1) and will provide the DOT and TIEZA, free of charge, 1,538.94 sq. m. floor area located in front of the mall and across the Seda Abreeza Hotel.

The DOT through TIEZA shall build the market with designated areas for fresh fruits, processed and value-added products, and a common dining and events area that make for a vibrant convergence point for tourists the whole year round.

The project is also engaging the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Davao City Agriculture Office and the Davao City Tourism Operations Office.The Asian Fruit Market (Phase 1) will have spaces leased to producers and entrepreneurs from all over Mindanao and is scheduled to open in April 2016.")


source: Art Boncato | Facebook

Mindanao railway Duterte priority, says Alan Cayetano

by Germelina Lacorte | Inquirer Mindanao

Photo courtesy of Alan Peter Cayetano

DAVAO CITY, Philippines
— The Duterte-Cayetano tandem has revived the proposal for the 200-kilometer Mindanao Railway System, which had been planned to connect Mindanao’s food-producing regions to the country’s markets, such as Manila.
Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano said the railway system, which would provide low-cost transport system for food and agricultural commodities from Mindanao, would keep the country’s food prices low and affordable for people in big cities.
That is why, the railway system is on top of the priority list of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, if he wins as the country’s next President in the coming 2016 election, according to Cayetano, Duterte’s running mate.

“Landlocked agricultural areas like North Cotabato, Bukidnon, Agusan and Lanao del Sur with no access to ports or cargo-loading airports will greatly benefit from the Mindanao Railway System,” Cayetano said during a federalism forum in Kidapawan City.
 Efficient, low-cost

“The railway system will ensure efficient and low-cost transport of food commodities from agricultural areas like North Cotabato to the ports of Davao, General Santos City or Cagayan de Oro City,” Cayetano told banana farmers, who had earlier complained of the inadequate transport and shipping system in the province, and how a poor transport system damages their products even before they reach their markets.
Benefit farmers

Cayetano said an efficient and low-cost transport system, such as the Mindanao railway, would benefit farmers in Mindanao and would keep the country’s food prices low.
“It will be a priority project under the Duterte presidency because of its importance in ensuring low-cost food for the nation,” Cayetano said.
He said the proposed Mindanao Railway System had been studied and approved but did not materialize because no funds had been allocated to it by the national government.
Highly centralized

“The delay in the implementation of the railway system is another proof of how a highly centralized unitary government neglected the development of the countryside,” he said.
“Compared to the MRT, which costs P50 billion per line with the seventh line now under construction, the Mindanao Railway Project will only cost P75 billion,” Cayetano said.
North Cotabato is the country’s biggest producer of bananas for the local market, although some farmers in the town of M’lang have started exporting organic rice to Europe and other countries.

The province is also one of the biggest producers of raw and semiprocessed rubber products and oil palm despite farmers’ perennial complaints about their lack of access to a wharf or an airport. 


source: Inquirer.net

Life And Style | Bridal Carabao: A Unique Countryside Wedding Tradition from South Upi, Maguindanao

In the heart of the Philippine countryside, a beautiful and creative wedding tradition is capturing hearts and inspiring smiles, the Bridal Carabao.

This innovation, seen in South Upi, Maguindanao, replaces the usual bridal car with something far more meaningful and culturally rooted: a decorated carabao pulling a traditional wooden cart or sled, lovingly adorned with flowers, colorful fabrics, and native materials. The bride, often dressed in traditional or modest wedding attire and rides gracefully, turning her entrance into a moment of rustic elegance and rural pride.

More than just a charming visual, the Bridal Carabao symbolizes simplicity, sustainability, and respect for local heritage. In a time where weddings often chase extravagance, this humble alternative brings focus back to community values, cultural identity, and the beauty of slow, meaningful celebrations.

It’s a celebration not just of love, but also of tradition and ingenuity, a reminder that the most touching moments don’t always come from grandeur, but from the heart of the land and the people who cherish it.

South Upi’s Bridal Carabao is not just a ride but it’s a story, a statement, and a symbol of homegrown pride.

GUSTO NG MGA NEGOSYANTE ANG KAMAY NA BAKAL

by: Raymond Burgos | Abante Online News

Nagpahayag kamakailan ng pagkabahala ang mga nego­syante at mangangalakal sa Minda­nao na makakaepekto sa itatayong Bangsamoro entity ang naganap na pagmasaker sa 44 na commando ng Special Action Force sa Mamasapano, Maguindanao.


Nangangamba ang mga negosyante na dahil sa mabuway na peace and order sa dating Auto­nomous Region in Muslim Minda­nao ay malamang na magsiatrasan na ang mga nagpaplanong mamuhunan at magtayo ng negosyo sa nasabing rehiyon.


Kasabay ng pangamba at pagka­bahala ng mga negosyante sa Mindanao ang pagkadismaya sa administrasyon ni Pangulong Noynoy Aquino dahil sa kawalan nito ng direksyon at matigas na desisyon laban sa Moro Islamic Liberation Front at Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters na siyang mga nasa likod ng pananambang sa mga miyembro ng SAF noong Enero 25.


Kaya nga ikinatuwa ng mga taga-Mindanao ang pagsulpot ni Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte bilang posibleng kandidato sa pagka-pangulo sa 2016 at hindi nakakapagtakang suporta­do ng mga negosyante ang kanyang kandidatura.


Matagal na naging alkalde ng Davao City si Duterte at sa ilalim ng kanyang pamamahala ay nakamit ng syudad ang kaunlaran sa ekonomiya dala na rin ng kanyang istilo ng pamumuno na “kamay na bakal”.

Hindi naman maikakaila na peace and order ang unang inatupag ni Duterte kung kaya nalinis agad ang Davao City sa mga masasamang elemento gaya ng mga drug pusher, kidnapper at mga magnanakaw na siyang naging dahilan kung bakit naideklara ang syudad ni Duterte bilang “most livable,” “ most peaceful” at “most child-friendly city”.


Wala ring anomalya sa Davao City Hall sa ilalim ng admi­nistrasyon ni Duterte at mga negosyante na mismo ang magpa­patotoo na ang mayor’s permit ay nakukuha ng mga nego­syante sa loob ng 72 oras at walang lagay o padulas na ibinibigay sa mga opisyal ng city hall.


Si Duterte rin ang nagpatupad ng total ban sa mga paputok lalo na pagsasapit ang Pasko at Bagong Taon at lahat ay sumunod dito dahil batid nilang para ito sa kaligtasan ng mga bata at mga residente ng Davao City.


Mahigpit ding ipinapatupad ng Davao City ang speed li­mit na hanggang 60kph lang at ang liquor ban partikular sa mga menor de edad. May curfew din ang mga night spots at night club sa syudad ni Duterte at ito ay hanggang alas-dos lang ng madaling-araw para maiwasan ang sobrang kalasingan na nauuwi sa mga away at basag-ulo.


Maaaring totoong hindi pa desidido si Duterte sa pag­takbo sa 2016 bilang pangulo ng bansa. Ngunit sa natatanggap niyang suporta sa kanyang paglilibot, at dahil na rin sa mga problema ng bansa na kailangan ang isang matapang at may paninindigang mamumuno, malapit-lapit nang bumigay ang alkalde ng Davao City.


Hinahanap ng marami nating kababayan ang “kamay na bakal” na ang ibig sabihin ay pagkakaroon ng matigas na posisyon ng Pangulo sa MILF at ang kagyat na pagtugis sa mga BIFF na hindi kabahagi sa usapang pangkapayapaan.


Kailangan ng bayan ngayon ang “kamay na bakal”. Kaila­ngan ng Pilipinas ang kagaya ni Mayor Duterte na may kamay na bakal sa mga kriminal at malambot na puso sa mga mahi­hirap at biktima ng mga sakuna at pang-aapi.


Hindi sapat ang “tuwid na daan” ng administrasyong Aquino na salat sa pagkakaroon ng matibay na paninindigan at pagiging mapagpasya sa panahon ng krisis gaya ng insidente sa Mamasapano.


source: Abante.com.ph

BIGGEST FEDERALISM MEET SET IN DAVAO CITY MONDAY

By Manny Pinol

The advocacy to decentralize governance by creating Federal States in the different regions of the Philippines takes a giant leap Monday, Dec. 1, when several big names in the country's political, social, religious, civic and ethnic groups will meet for a Federalism Summit at the Grand Men Seng Hotel in Davao City.

Among those expected to attend Monday are former President Fidel V. Ramos, former Cebu City Mayor Tommy Osmena, Archbishop Fernando Capalla, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, Ateneo de Davao President Fr. Joel Tabora and several incumbent Governors, Mayors and Congressmen from all over the country.

Bangsamoro and Tribal leaders along with representatives of Left-leaning groups are also expected to be present including members of the academe who will serve as reactors.

Unlike the unitary form of government which the country has now, the Federal system of government calls for the creation of states all over the country which will be defined not only by geographical boundaries but also cultural and socio-political commonalities.

While there are already two autonomous regions in the country, namely the Cordillera Autonomous Region and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, the governance powers have largely been limited and decision making, especially budgeting, is still made in Metro Manila.

The foremost example of a federal system of government is the United States of America which is composed of 50 States headed by State Governors with their own legislature, Supreme Court and State Police.

Each State, while covered by the American Constitution, could enact laws which are only applicable in their territory, the example of which is the passage of the law allowing same-sex marriage in several states while conservative states have rejected it.

The advocacy for Federalism recently gained more support following the discovery of massive misuse of government funds by national government officials highlighted by the Napoles Pork Barrel Scam and the Malampaya Gas Fund Anomaly.

The inequitable distribution and sharing of the national wealth and resource have also contributed to the growing demand to decentralize governance.

The one-day Federalism Summit will end with Davao City Mayor Duterte, one of the prime movers of the Federalism movement, delivering a keynote speech in the afternoon.

Crown Regency Hotel owner murdered in Davao City

DAVAO CITY
-- The owner of Crown Regency Hotel died after he was shot at close range by a lone gunman inside his building in Obrero, Davao City around 7 p.m. Thursday, police said.

Richard King, 56, was died in Davao City. According to the police reports, He was dining with his employees inside the Vital-C Building when the gunman entered and shot the victim on the head.The suspect immediately fled the scene on a black motorcycle that was waiting outside the building. Police are still investigating the incident.

King is a hotels and resorts magnet, He owns a chain of hotels and resorts located in key cities in the Philippines.

Photo : Cheche Abordo | DXAB Radyo

PUREGOLD JOB Opening in Butuan, AgusaNort, Caraga Region

DAVAO CITY, Davao, Philippines.
—  Puregold Price Club, Inc. is a chain of supermarkets in the Philippines established in 1998. It began when Puregold opened its first branch in  Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City. With the rise of Exclusive Membership on Affiliation to exclusive supermarket, Puregold opened its door to the buying public without membership requirements. This is the birth of continuous opening of Puregold stores in different parts of NCR (National Capital Region) and other parts of the nation.Presently, it has grown into a retail chain with more than 50 stores nationwide.

Puregold Price Club, Inc., with its competent employees, is serving its valued customers through its effective customer service program and competitive price scheme.


And they are hiring for: 

Store Managers (For Butuan, Agusan del Norte, Caraga Region)

Responsibilities: 

• Responsible for ensuring the success of the store operations in terms of sales and excellent customer service.

Requirements: 

• Candidate must possess at least a Bachelor's/College Degree in Business Studies/Administration/Management, Economics, Marketing, Commerce, Hospitality/Tourism/Hotel Management or equivalent.
• At least 1 year(s) of working experience in the related field is required for this position.
• Preferably 1-4 Yrs Experienced Employees specializing in Sales - Retail/General or equivalent. Job role in Supervisor/Team Lead or Management.
• 1 Full-Time position(s) available.

Warehouse Supervisors (For Butuan, Agusan del Norte, Caraga Region)

Responsibilities: 

• Responsible for ensuring smooth flow of all warehouse transactions and activities such as stocks monitoring and inventory.

Requirements: 

• Candidate must possess at least a Bachelor's/College Degree in Engineering (Industrial), Marketing or equivalent.
• At least 1 year(s) of working experience in the related field is required for this position.
• Preferably Supervisor / 5 Yrs & Up Experienced Employees specializing in Logistics/Supply Chain or equivalent. Job role in Warehouse Warehouse or Management.
• 1 Full-Time position(s) available.

Gate 1, KERR Bldg., Tabacalera Compound
900 D. Romualdez St. Ermita, Manila
recruitment@puregold.com.ph
Tel.no. (02) 524-4114 / (02) 523-9433

For more job opportunities visit: http://www.jobstreet.com/ph/puregold


Note:
Advertised on Jobstreet 7-16-13 | Application deadline on 9-14-13

BLUGRE COFFEE - Tagum City, Davao.

Tagum City, Davao

Blugre Coffee
—  Finally Blugre Coffee will open soon in Tagum City. You can have a lot of choices now if you are looking for a coffee shop in this booming city of Davao. Blugre Coffee is a Davao homegrown coffee shop which become a global brand today. And is located in Nicole 22nd Strip Building, Apokon Road, Tagum City. The shop is the former home of Cafe Wissie which is owned and managed by the Divinagracia Family who also own the franchise of Blugre in this side of Davao.

As of this moment, Blugre Coffee Tagum is so busy for the renovation of the shop to enhance the interior design to boost up the ambience for the incoming opening of the store.

Quick Facts:
Blugre Coffee was first established in Gaisano Mall of Davao way back in 1998 and followed the 2nd branch in Landco Corporate Center in Davao City.


Today, Blugre has made a name as the Best Coffee Shop in Davao City. And it is most famous for their durian coffee toppings, which is one of my favorite whenever I have my time to visit the store.

And in the coming years, we will expect more Blugre  stores, because the company had planned to open more branches in Davao, Mindanao and other parts of the country and likewise expanding the asian region.

The soon to open branch in Davao Region:
Nicole 22nd Strip Building, Tagum City - opens Feb. 22, 2013
Davao Doctor’s College Building, Davao City  - opens Feb. 28, 2013

BLUGRE Coffee branch in Matina Town Square (MTS), 

Photo courtesy of  BLUGRE website.

Davao City :

1. Landco Corporate Center (Bajada)
2. Matina Town Square (MTS)
3. SM City Davao (Ecoland)
4. SM Lanang Premier
5. Gaisano Mall of Davao
6. Abreeza Mall Corporate Center
7. Davao Doctor’s College (soon)

Other Mindanao Branches:

Tagum City:

1. Nicole 22nd Strip, Apokon Road (soon)

General Santos City:

1. Robinsons Gensan
2. SM City Gensan

Cagayan de Oro City:

1. Jacinto Street, Valencia Compound, CDO

BLUGRE COFFEE - CDO Branch

For more information, log on to www.blugre.com or visit any of the following Blugre stores in Mindanao.

News | New Province of Davao Occidental Takes Effect After Publication

Davao Occidental Officially Created as New Province

Davao City, Philippines
— The Davao Region marks a significant milestone with the creation of its newest province, Davao Occidental, under Republic Act No. 10360. The law was signed by former President Benigno Aquino III on January 14 and is set to take effect 15 days after its publication in national newspapers on Monday, January 21.

The establishment of Davao Occidental represents a major step toward strengthening local governance and accelerating development in the western part of Davao del Sur. The new province was formed through the division of Davao del Sur, with five municipalities from its second district now officially constituting Davao Occidental. These municipalities are Malita, Santa Maria, Don Marcelino, Jose Abad Santos, and Sarangani.

Meanwhile, the remaining municipalities previously under the second district like the Kiblawan, Malalag, and Sulop will be realigned with the first district of Davao del Sur, ensuring balanced representation and continued administrative efficiency.

The creation of Davao Occidental brings renewed hope for its people, as provincial status is expected to improve access to government services, enhance local autonomy, and open greater opportunities for economic growth and infrastructure development. With its rich natural resources, strong agricultural base, and resilient communities, the new province is poised to chart a future of inclusive progress and sustainable development.

As Davao Occidental begins this new chapter, local leaders and residents alike look forward to a province built on unity, opportunity, and a shared vision for a better tomorrow.

Quick Facts: Creation of Davao Occidental

Under Section 450 of the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended by Republic Act No. 9009, the creation of a province is subject to specific legal requirements. These include a minimum land area of 2,000 square kilometers, as certified by the Land Management Bureau; a population of at least 250,000, as certified by the National Statistics Office; and a minimum average annual income of ₱20 million.

Davao Occidental met and exceeded all these requirements. The new province has a total land area of 2,183.97 square kilometers, a population of 293,780 based on the 2010 census, and an average annual income of ₱113.22 million for the years 2008 and 2009.

As of 2012, the Philippines had a total of 80 provinces, while the Davao Region was composed of four provinces.

With the official creation of Davao Occidental, the total number of provinces in the country has increased to 81, and the Davao Region now has five provinces. These are Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, and the newly established Davao Occidental.

The addition of Davao Occidental underscores the government’s commitment to decentralization, improved local governance, and inclusive regional development, marking a hopeful step forward for both the Davao Region and the nation as a whole.

| via SouthernDC Blog

Davao City gets Electronic Senior Citizen IDs

Davao City, Philippines
→ Seniors often need to present their ID cards in order to avail of senior citizen benefits and privileges. But the problem with these ID cards is that they are flimsy and have an expiry date that necessitates replacement every few years.

With the new electronic ID system, Davao City senior citizens only have to apply for these hard, durable, permanent plastic IDs once. And in addition to being senior citizen cards, these free IDs are also valid for other legal transactions. 

Updating the senior citizen database for Davao City bought about the by registration for the new ID cards bought the seniors another perk. Unlike in other cities in the Philippines where the seniors need to carry 3 booklets for their medicines, groceries and when purchasing of agricultural products, Davao seniors on now have an integrated senior citizen booklet for all their purchases.

To avail of the cards, seniors just need to bring their old ID cards to the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) along with the following requirements:

Filled-up application forms
1 x 1 Picture (Latest) 2 pieces
Residence Certificate – Current Year (Photo Copy)
Proof of age: ANY of the following
Birth Certificate
Baptismal Certificate
Voters ID
Voters Certification
Islamic Rite of Childbirth (ISLAM)
Joint Affidavit of Two Disinterested Person
Proof of Residency – BARANGAY CERTIFICATION

The OSCA started beta testing the new IDs last July 16. The OSCA officially started the replacement of senior citizen ID cards for senior residents in District 1 last September 3 and will last until October 31. Senior citizens from District 2 can start getting their cards from November 3 to 29 while District 3 senior residents can get their cards from December 3 to 21. OSCA will continue to replace senior citizen cards with RA 9994 at the back starting February 1, 2013

The OSCA plans to increase the number of senior citizen ID released per day by increasing the number of ID printing machines. They also plan to make the ID registration process more accessible, especially for homebound or seniors with disabilities, by launching mobile ID printing stations and ID registration caravans in the barangays.

Mr. Luis Moran, OSCA Chief of Staff, urges establishments all over the Philippines to respect both the new and old senior citizen cards. “We plan to eventually replace all the senior citizen cards in Davao City with the new electronic IDs. And senior citizens with the new IDs don’t have to worry as these cards will be recognized nationwide. Until further announcement, we at OSCA call upon all establishments to honor the old and new senior citizen cards and we encourage our seniors to get their cards as soon possible to avoid the crowds.”


copyright: GMA Network News



And to add more, check out this announcement from the
Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs Advisory (New Electronic ID System) in Davao City Gov't website , published on Sep. 10, 2012.

NEW ELECTRONIC ID SYSTEM SCHEDULE
Replacement of the Senior Citizens IDs with RA 7432 and RA 9257 at the back for:

• District 1 will be on September 3, 2012 until October 31, 2012
• District 2 will be on November 3-29, 2012
• District 3 on December 3-21, 2012

Replacement of Senior Citizens IDs with RA 9994 at the back will start on February 1, 2013 onwards.

Note:
All white Senior Citizens Identification Cards with RA 7432, RA 9257, and RA 9994 at the back are still valid and will be accepted until the schedules of the new electronic ID system replacement is finished.
Electronic ID system (E-Card) replacement and application will be conducted at the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs, Ground Floor, Sangguniang Panlungsod Bldg., Magallanes St., Davao City.
For inquiries you may contact 222-8061 or 295-7426.

Starbucks - Gensan soon to open

Update, September 20, 2012
The long wait is finally over.. STARBUCKS Gensan is NOW BREWING.
Located at the SMGS Al Fresco Strip.
Brewing time:  8:30 AM to 12:00 Midnight

Courtesy of SM City - General Santos Fb page

Courtesy of  SM City - General Santos Fb page

Starbucks Coffee
— The world's leading coffee shop is set to open in General Santos City at SM City, Gensan. Generals mark your calendar on the September 20th (Thursday), year 2012 for the much-awaited Grand Opening of the best coffee in the world.This will be the first ever Starbucks in South Central Mindanao brought to you by SM Shopping Mall. And this is also the third urban city in Mindanao area with Starbucks outlet, First in CDO with one outlet, in Davao with 2 outlet and now in Gensan with one outlet.

Courtesy of  SM City - General Santos Fb page

Congratulation and Enjoy Generals!!

You might like:
Starbucks Coffee - SM Lanang Premier

PHILHEALTH Run on Feb. 5, 2012

The Mindanao Run For Hope
— The first simultaneous running event in Mindanao.

Be part of the History in Mindanao..
This is for the benefit of Kids for Hope in SPMC's Children's Cancer Center and Blood Disease Unit.
With its theme "No Child Should Die in the Dawn of Life" .

PhilHealth Run: The Mindanao Run For Hope
Date: February 5, 2012
Assembly time: 4:30 AM
Deadline of Registration: Feb.4, 2012


Simultaneously Run in the following area of Mindanao:
Butuan
Davao
Cagayan de Oro
Koronadal
Marawi
Zamboanga

DAVAO REGION:

Date: February 05, 2012 at 5:00 AM
Venue: SM City Davao Parking Area - Quiampo Blvd., Ecoland, DC.
Race Category: 3k, 5k, 10k, 17k

REGISTRATION FEE
₱250 →3k
₱300 →5k
₱500 →10k  (with timing chip)
₱600 →17k  (with timing chip)

REGISTRATION CENTERS IN DAVAO REGION:

PhilHealth Regional Office XI – Davao City
R.C. Reyes Bldg., Quimpo Blvd.,
Davao City
 region11@philhealth.gov.ph
(082) 2962265 (fax)

Service Offices:

Tagum City, Davao del Norte
Gold City Complex, National Highway,
Tagum City, Davao del Norte
(084) 4003498 (fax)
(084) 2184825

Digos City, Davao Del Sur
Danilo Sy/ Gomzales Bldg. Aurora St.,
Digos City, Davao del Sur
(082) 5537247 (fax)

Mati City, Davao Oriental
Sunlite Commercial Bldg, Mabini St.,
Mati City, Davao Oriental
(087) 3884920 (fax)

Nabunturan, Compostela Valley Province
Cho Bldg., National Highway, Poblacion,
Nabunturan, Compostela Valley Province
(084) 3760692 (fax)

DEADLINE OF REGISTRATION
February 04, 2012

FOR MORE DETAILS
Jonas Joseph Angala
Mobile Phone:   0922 807 4411 (Sun)

Click the name of the City below for its complete details/info:
BUTUAN
DAVAO
CAGAYAN DE ORO
KORONADAL
MARAWI
ZAMBOANGA

Bo's Coffee and its branches in Davao region.

Davao City, Davao, Philippines.



Bo's Coffee History:

It all started with a bean bursting with the life force of personal passion and entrepreneurial energy.

In 1994, mr. Steve D. Benitez, President and CEO of Bo’s Coffee dreamt of sharing his coffee experience in the united Staes and euroope to the local market. June 1996 saw the opening of the first store of Bo’s Coffee at Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu City, Philippines.

It has since grown branching out into major urban areas of the Philippines. Bo’s Coffee now operates 34 outlets strategically located in Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, Iloilo, Bohol and Tacloban.

Driven by the vision to be the country’s premier specialty coffee bar, it plans to open more branches in the country.

A Philippine homegrown company started in Cebu, and now branching out nationwide. I admit that I love to hang out in coffee shops with my friends but i would say that i am not really a coffee addict. I just love this place because of its quite and superb ambience. It really fits to those people who love to have a chit chat or simply to socalized with thier friends. And besides, this place is a WiFi Hotspot so you can bring your tech gadget with you and browse there while sipping your fav'rite coffee or frappes.

Here in Davao City, Bo's Coffee has 3 branches as of 2011:

1. Bo's Coffee Metro Lifestyle Complex
F. Torres St. cor. Jacinto St.,
Davao City, PH

2. Bo's Coffee G/F SM City Davao
Quimpo Blvd., Ecoland, Matina,
Davao City, PH

3. Bo's Coffee Level 2, Abreeza Mall
JP Laurel Ave., Bajada, Davao City, PH

Anyway, a new branches of  Bo's Coffee is now open in Cotabato City (Alnor Complex, Sinsuat Ave. right across the Cotabato City Regional Hospital) and another one is set to open on mid-Sept. of 2011 in Solenad 2 (Nuvali).




Follow @boscoffee on Twitter.

@Metro Lifestyle Complex, F. Torres cor. Jacinto St., DC

Payment Method: Cash, Visa, Master Card
Estimated Budget: Php 150/meal



source: Bo's Coffee Company's website