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lifestyle

SCENE CITY | Royo takes oath as SIAPR governor

by Marilyn Roque June 21, 2026

written by Marilyn Roque

ATTENDING the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of Soroptimist International of the Americas Philippines Region (SIAPR) was not only exciting but an occasion we proudly experienced.

Adelina Cuizon Royo took her oath as the fourth governor elected from Davao City. She assumed the position previously held by Immediate Past Governor Marivic S. Paras.

Davao City has the honor of having three SIAPR governors in the past, namely, Patria Garcia-Montemayor, Gladys Tiongco, and Rosa Santos Munda.

It was also the 30^th Biennial Conference held at the EDSA Shangrila Hotel in Mandaluyong City on May 22 -25, 2025, attended by clubs from the various regions in the Philippines.

The theme of the conference was “Diamonds and Dreams.” The conference focused on the topic “Educated Women, Sustainable Solutions: A Blueprint for Future Generations.”

Election of regional officers for the next biennium took place on the last day of the conference, after which the plenary workshop was held. Michelle Burnet, SIA ED/CEO, gave updates during the afternoon session.

The installation of governor Adelina C. Royo was the highlight of the evening of May 25, when she delivered her acceptance speech.

Outgoing governor Marivic S. Paras handed over the bell and gavel and the Governor’s Medallion.

Royo’s thrust during her term is “responsible stewardship.” Soroptimist International is an organization that seeks to help women and girls improve their quality of life through education.

June 21, 2026 0 comments

Open Streets, Living Estates: Car-Free Sundays expand to Davao and Negros

by Contributor May 22, 2026

written by Contributor

Car-Free Sundays continue to evolve across Ayala Land’s estates, with the initiative recently expanding to Azuela Cove in Davao City and North Point in Talisay City, Negros—bringing the growing open-streets movement to new communities in Visayas and Mindanao.

More than just a weekend activity, Car-Free Sundays is steadily becoming a lifestyle habit—inviting people to slow down, move more actively, and rediscover their surroundings in a more meaningful way.

A Lifestyle-Driven Experience in Davao

At Azuela Cove, Car-Free Sundays takes on a vibrant, lifestyle-oriented character. Visitors can explore the estate through a range of mobility options—from vintage bicycles and tandem bikes to electric scooter rides—offering a fresh, recreational way to engage with its streets and parks.

The experience is both active and social, encouraging visitors to interact with the estate beyond the usual pace of city life. With its scenic setting and curated activities, Car-Free Sundays in Davao transforms movement into something leisurely, shareable, and enjoyable.

A Community Space in Negros

In contrast, North Point offers a more intimate, community-centered take. Surrounded by residential villages, the initiative provides a safe and accessible environment where families can walk, bike, and spend time together.

Here, Car-Free Sundays is less about programming and more about everyday use—becoming a natural extension of weekend routines for nearby residents. It reinforces the value of shared spaces in suburban settings, where people can gather and connect comfortably.

Cebu’s Strong Foundation

The expansion builds on the sustained success of Car-Free Sundays in Cebu Business Park and Cebu I.T. Park, where the initiative is approaching its third year.

In Cebu Business Park, growing participation has led to extended hours, with Car-Free Sundays now running until 5 p.m. The longer schedule has also opened opportunities for new experiences, including a Sunday market and outdoor pickleball sessions, adding more variety to the day.

Meanwhile, in Cebu I.T. Park, the initiative continues to draw a consistent mix of joggers, cyclists, pet owners, and families—reinforcing its identity as one of the most walkable and lifestyle-driven districts in the region.

From Makati to a Nationwide Movement

Car-Free Sundays traces its roots to Ayala Avenue in Makati, where it first transformed a busy urban corridor into a people-first space. What started as a bold experiment quickly became a weekly ritual for thousands—combining fitness, leisure, and community in one shared setting.

Over time, the initiative has expanded in both scale and experience, introducing new activities such as community sports and social fitness, while maintaining its core idea: creating space for people to move freely and connect.

Redefining Everyday Living

Across all its locations, Car-Free Sundays reflects a broader shift in how estates are experienced—not just as places to live or work, but as environments that support healthier, more connected lifestyles.

By opening streets to people, even temporarily, these estates create opportunities for movement, interaction, and discovery. It turns ordinary roads into vibrant shared spaces—and a simple Sunday morning into something people can look forward to each week. With Davao and Negros now part of the network, Car-Free Sundays continues to grow—not just in reach, but in meaning—shaping more communities where wellness and connection are part of everyday life.

May 22, 2026 0 comments

Lifestyle

Mentor, apprentice hold back-to-back art exhibit at La Herencia

by Contributor April 12, 2026

written by Contributor

BY JOSHUA LEE SARDOMA & JAMAL MONTEROLA/DNSC Interns

THE BACK-TO-BACK exhibit “Paghandum, Pagduaw sa Dabaw,” featuring the works of Datu Bago Awardee Lito Pepito and Cebuano painter Orley Ypon, opened at the La Herencia Foyer in Davao City at 5 p.m. on April 10, 2026.

The exhibit centers on the artists’ distinct styles and evolving techniques, highlighting their individual approaches to contemporary Filipino art. The collection brings together a range of paintings that reflect both personal expression and artistic discipline.

Pepito’s works highlight his exploration of cubism, emphasizing form and structure in his compositions.

Ypon, who hails from Toledo, Cebu, presents pieces shaped by his continued engagement with artistic practice.

Their artistic connection traces back to 1998, when Ypon arrived in Davao City and was inspired to further immerse himself in art, with Pepito mentoring and guiding his development.

“Pag-abot nako sa Davao, diri ko na certified painter tungod sa akoang mentor Lito Pepito, iyaha kung gitagaan og luna diri sa Davao,” said Ypon, expressing his gratitude towards Pepito.

The mentor-student relationship between Pepito and Ypon is reflected in the dialogue between their artworks on display.

The exhibit also serves as a gathering of artists, drawing numerous friends and peers of the exhibitors to support and take part in the event.

In an interview, Ypon shared his inspiration, saying, “Ang inspiration nako kay mag pursigi ko sa akong art para masabtan nako ang art.”

April 12, 2026 0 comments

Lifestyle

WANDERLUST | Flocking to Five: ‘Birds in the Wild’ turns half a decade

by Ian Ray Garcia February 11, 2026

written by Ian Ray Garcia

WHAT BEGAN as a chance encounter and a shared passion has blossomed into one of the Philippines’ most enduring birdwatching traditions. On Saturday, Feb. 7, Big Year Davao and Malagos Garden Resort (MGR) celebrated five years of their “Birds in the Wild” partnership—a milestone that proves conservation is most effective when it’s a community affair.

The story of Big Year is one of persistence. Founded by a dedicated group of birders—British expatriate Pete Simpson alongside Sta Cruz tourism officer Julius Paner, educator Benito Anthony Pingoy, and field biologist/NGO worker Joshua Donato—the initiative sought to give birdwatching a platform in Davao.

*Julius Paner, Tonton Pingoy, Cha Puentespina, Joshua Donato and Michael Superio*

Big Year Davao got its name from a 2011 American film wherein, over the course of one year, the film’s protagonists crisscross North America in a quest to count more species of birds than anyone else.

Simpson, reflecting on the journey via video message from Negros Oriental, recalled a time around 15 years ago when he was the lone active birdwatcher in the city.

“A lot of people couldn’t relate to what we’re doing,” shared Pingoy. “We didn’t have a platform. As an educator, I wanted to influence my students and the community.”

*Dr Jun Arnao’s photo of an Orange-lined Sunbird, an endemic species*

The turning point came in early 2020 through a serendipitous meeting in Camiguin between Paner and MGR President Charisse Puentespina, when the idea of initiating a birdwatching activity in the resort was hatched. While the pandemic initially grounded their plans, a second “coincidental” encounter in Davao Oriental months later finally greenlit the project.

Surprisingly, the pandemic provided the perfect window. While the world slowed down, the birds kept singing. The group used the lockdown’s end to train Malagos personnel as in-house bird guides, officially launching a program that combined leisure with deep-rooted environmental awareness.

The growth of the monthly “Birds in the Wild” activity, held every first Saturday, has been nothing short of remarkable. In their first year, they’ve identified about 10 or 15 birds within the resort. To date, the bird count is now up to 82. Moreover, MGR has welcomed over 4,000 guests in their birdwatching activity in the last 5 years.

”Those are really good numbers and a good experience for all of us to be able to share it with all of you,” Puentespina proudly said during the celebration.

For the Puentespina family, this anniversary is more than a corporate milestone; it is a tribute. The advocacy honors the late Dr. Roberto “Bo” Puentespina Jr., a renowned veterinarian and staunch bird conservationist. “Our advocacy for the environment is his,” Puentespina noted. “It’s very personal for my brother, so we’d also like to remember him today.”

*MGR has welcomed more than 4,000 birdwatching enthusiasts since 2021*

To commemorate the 5th year, Malagos Chocolate added a delicious twist to the festivities. Rex Puentespina unveiled six new chocolate variants, featuring labels adorned with photos of birds found within the resort—including the elusive Southern Silvery Kingfisher. It’s a literal taste of conservation, blending Davao’s world-class cacao with its vibrant avian heritage.

As Big Year Davao enters its next half-decade, the message is clear: whether through a lens or a chocolate bar, protecting nature is a journey worth taking—one bird at a time.

February 11, 2026 0 comments

Lifestyle

WANDERLUST | Davao’s Filipino-Chinese community gallops into the Year of the Horse

by Ian Ray Garcia February 2, 2026

written by Ian Ray Garcia

THE SPIRIT of vitality and renewal filled the air as the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Davao hosted an advanced celebration for the Lunar New Year on Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Red Lantern Seafoods Restaurant.

The festive gathering, held to welcome the Year of the Horse, brought together prominent members of the Filipino-Chinese community, the Davao Federation of Overseas Chinese Associations, and representatives from the Confucius Institute at Ateneo de Davao University.

Consul General Zhao Xiuzhen opened the ceremony by reflecting on the “surreal” global landscape of 2025, noting the rapid socio-economic and environmental shifts witnessed worldwide.

Despite these challenges, she highlighted China’s unwavering stability and technological prowess. She emphasized that China continues to embrace the world with an open attitude, bolstered by a booming economy and a heightened sense of national pride.

In her address, she expressed deep gratitude to the local associations for their tireless service to the communities of Davao and the wider Mindanao region, reminding those present that their motherland remains a steadfast pillar of support.

The activity also featured a keynote address from Mr. Shi Xianyou, President of the Association of Davao Filipino-Chinese Communities, who detailed the long-standing collaboration between his organization, the Consulate General, and the Southern Fujian Federation of Overseas Chinese Associations.

He highlighted their recent humanitarian efforts, including the provision of disaster relief supplies following earthquakes in Tangshan’s Nanhu Lake and in Manay, Davao Oriental. Furthermore, he noted the association’s role in the construction of the Magbok Huizhong Friendship School in Tulunan, Cotabato, as a testament to their commitment to local development.

Mr. Shi also expressed his gratitude to the Consulate General for providing the guidance necessary to formalize the federation’s constitution and standardize its operations. He pledged continued support for future initiatives, urging the community to “unleash the boundless energy of galloping horses” and contribute to the ongoing rejuvenation of the nation. He spoke of the horse as a symbol of a bold, enterprising spirit—qualities that resonate deeply with the community’s goals for the coming year.

The event served not only as a cultural milestone but also as a reaffirmation of the strong bonds between the overseas Chinese community and their homeland. The Year of the Horse is welcomed in Davao with the hope that its inherent strength will drive further success and prosperity for all.

February 2, 2026 0 comments

Lifestyle

ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026 Opens at Historic Mactan Shrine in Cebu

by Ian Ray Garcia January 30, 2026

written by Ian Ray Garcia

THE PHILIPPINES officially welcomed the Southeast Asian tourism ministers, together with 271 buyers from 50 countries, 124 sellers, 222 exhibitors, and members of the international media as the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026 opened on January 28 at the historic Liberty Shrine in the Island of Mactan, Cebu.

The ceremony commenced with the traditional banging of the gong led by Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco. Following this symbolic gesture, the Secretary was joined by her fellow tourism ministers from across the ASEAN member states for the symbolic ASEAN handshake, signaling the start of the region’s most influential tourism event.

*Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cindy K. Chan*

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos graced the program, standing alongside the visiting ministers for a commemorative photo that captured the spirit of regional solidarity. The evening was further enriched by cultural performers from Cebu, who captivated the delegates with song and dance numbers that showcased the island province’s heritage and storied past.

During the event, Frasco delivered the keynote message on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., highlighting the significance of the forum’s long-standing history.

”We are committed to advancing our collective interests and to steering our region toward shared growth. This year is especially meaningful as the ATF marks its 45th year since its inauguration in Malaysia in 1981,” she said.

*Frasco leads the ceremonial banging of the gong*

The Secretary further noted that a major milestone of this year’s forum is the completion and adoption of the ASEAN Tourism Sector Plan 2026-2030. This roadmap is designed to set a unified course for sustainable and inclusive tourism, aiming to enrich visitor experiences and empower local enterprises to ensure the region remains a global leader in travel.

During her welcome remarks, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cindy K. Chan emphasized that tourism’s impact extends far beyond simple numerical data.

Cultural performances by Cebuano artists

*DOT regional directors at the historic Mactan Shrine*

”Tourism is more than an economic sector. It sustains livelihood, supports local economy and enterprises, preserves cultural heritage, and strengthens community identity. When guided by sustainability and inclusion, tourism becomes a force that benefits both visitors and host communities,” said Mayor Chan.

This year marks the third time the Philippines has hosted the ATF, following successful runs in Davao City in 2006 and Manila in 2016. Over the decades, the forum has evolved into a vital platform for cooperation, fostering the partnerships and policies that position tourism as a primary driver of opportunity for Southeast Asian economies.

January 30, 2026 0 comments

Lifestyle

WANDERLUST | Cebu Pacific soars into its third decade

by Ian Ray Garcia January 27, 2026

written by Ian Ray Garcia

MARKING three decades of democratizing air travel in the Philippines, Cebu Pacific officially kicked off its 30th anniversary on Jan. 23 at the Manila Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom. The event, aptly titled “Ang Travel Vibes,” transported guests back to the 90s—the period when the airline took its maiden flight—with a nostalgic program that highlighted 90s pop culture.

Hosted by actress, singer, and 90s icon Jolina Magdangal, alongside Zia Marquez, the program showcased a retrospective journey of the airline’s transformation from a bold newcomer into a market leader.

*Program host Jolina Magdangal serenades Cebuano content creator Carlo Olano*

The kickoff celebration featured insights from the airline’s executives regarding the human stories behind their triumph. Candice Iyog, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, emphasized that the airline has remained successful by staying true to its original goal of bringing flight within reach of the common Filipino.

”We look back at our journey, one that has been fueled by a commitment to provide a value service to everyone who ever dreamed of taking a flight to find work, to see family, to explore new places, and to seek new opportunities,” Iyog said during her address. “Behind these 30 years is not just growth, but a belief that travel is a key enabler to commerce, communities, and connection. And behind that belief are people.”

Chief marketing and customer experience officer Candice Iyog

This sentiment was echoed by president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao, who reminisced about the airline’s humble beginnings before highlighting its record-breaking performance.

In 2025, Cebu Pacific flew close to 27 million passengers, marking the highest volume in both the airline’s and Philippine aviation’s history. This achievement is a stark contrast to its first year of operations back in 2007, when the airline flew just five and a half million passengers, illustrating an exponential trajectory of growth.

”Every flight carries more than just passengers, but rather it carries hopes, reunions, firsts, and futures,” Lao added. “At Cebu Pacific, growth isn’t just measured in aircraft or destinations—it’s really measured in the number of dreams we help take flight.”

The airline’s 30-year history is punctuated by several industry-defining milestones. Since its first Manila-Cebu flight in 1996, Cebu Pacific has consistently broken barriers in the country, especially when it pioneered the “low-fare, great value” model.

In the mid-2000s, the airline introduced e-ticketing and revolutionized the industry with its signature “piso sale”, making air travel accessible to millions who had never flown before.

*Davao Team placed 2nd runner up in the Galawang 90s Dance Off*

By 2013, the airline expanded its reach into long-haul territory with flights to the Middle East, and it has since become a leader in sustainability by integrating fuel-efficient aircraft into its fleet.

Today, Cebu Pacific operates a vast network covering dozens of domestic and international destinations, continuing its legacy as the “everyJuan’s airline” while setting its sights on further global expansion.

January 27, 2026 0 comments

Lifestyle

SCENE CITY | Tara Francesca graduates Cum Laude

by Marilyn Roque January 9, 2026

written by Marilyn Roque

ANY MOTHER would feel proud and blessed with her daughter who finishes college and graduates with a degree, but not every mother can be as proud as Tamara Alsheri, who wrote on her Facebook wall ‘My heart is bursting!” after her daughter Tara Francesca Ramirez graduated from De La Salle University in Manila.

Tara’s grandmother, Mary Ann Tirol Kimpo Alsher, who also calls her “Franky,” is beaming with pride after attending her graduation ceremony, with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Biology, Major in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology – Cum Laude.

Sharing Tara’s touching words, which her Mom Tammy read, is our pride….

“By God’s grace alone. Thank you, DLSU, for four years I’ll remember long after these halls are behind me. My mom, Thamara, taught me to hold steady as life shifts around me, to trust the quiet wisdom of timing, and to take the leap, believing in the strength she saw in me long before I ever could. My dad, Francis, taught me to aspire far beyond what I can see, to keep humility close, and to trust that strength is built not in applause, but in faithful effort, long before it is ever seen. My grandparents were the haven I could always run to and be welcomed home; I hope my Lolo Gerry in heaven (a proud Lasallian!) is smiling at the newest Archer in the family. I once believed that strength meant standing alone, until I realized how much I owed to those beside me. To my friends, who turned Taft from strangeness into belonging, it was with you that these years at La Salle became whole. Forward, ever forward.”

Tamara, after reading her daughter’s post, replied, “I am very proud of the daughter you have become. I am right beside you as you continue your journey in life. God bless you and protect you, my Unica Hija. Love you to the moon and beyond!”

Tara spent her high school years in New York.

January 9, 2026 0 comments

Business

National Durian Industry Summit 2025 opens in Davao City

by Ian Ray Garcia November 26, 2025

written by Ian Ray Garcia

THE DISTINCTIVE aroma of opportunity filled the air at the Grand Men Seng Hotel on Tuesday, Nov. 25, as the National Durian Industry Summit 2025 officially opened, bringing together the country’s top agricultural leaders and stakeholders to chart the future of the “King of Fruits.”

The two-day summit kicked off with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting at the hotel lobby, led by Durian Industry Association of Davao City (DIADC) president Emmanuel Belviz. He was joined by key dignitaries including Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary Philip Yang, DA XI executive director Macario Gonzaga, Bureau of Plant Industry director Gerald Glenn Panganiban, and DOST XI regional director Dr. Anthony Sales.

Underscoring the international significance of the trade, Consul General of China Zhao Xiuzhen and Consul General of Malaysia Deddy Faisal Ahmad Salleh were also in attendance.

Hundreds of durian farmers, growers, processors, exporters, and researchers from across the Philippines gathered for the event, signaling a united front to elevate the Philippine durian on the world stage.

Gonzaga set the tone for the summit, emphasizing the government’s commitment to the sector.

”This is a strategic investment and the future of an industry that holds immense promise not only for Davao Region but for the entire country,” Gonzaga stated.

He affirmed that the DA recognizes the “bright, transformative” future of the industry, pledging continued support through the High-Value Crops Development Program. This includes market development, investment assistance, and aligned interventions that place durian farmers at the heart of agricultural progress.

During the opening program, Belviz presented a reality check regarding the Philippines’ standing in the global market. While global trade for durian is projected to reach a staggering 4.5 billion kilograms by 2030, the Philippines currently holds a small slice of the pie.

Belviz reported that as of 2023, Indonesia (39.36%), Thailand (31.49%), and Vietnam (17.02%) dominate world production, while the Philippines holds only a 1.67% production share. In terms of exports, Thailand leads with a massive 61.16% share, overshadowing the Philippines’ 0.306%.

Rodel Narvaez, public relations officer of the Durian Exporters Association of the Philippines, highlighted that while Davao Region contributes 75% of the country’s 70,000-80,000 metric ton annual yield, the industry faces significant hurdles. These include uncontrolled nursery practices, fragmentation of government efforts, climate change phenomena like La Niña, and a lack of a cohesive national strategy.

Narvaez also addressed quality concerns regarding the popular “Puyat” variety. While known for its strong flavor and excellent eating quality, it often faces issues with visual appeal—such as soft thorns, molds, and inconsistent maturity—which lowers its market value compared to competitors.

Consequently, global exports saw a decrease in 2024 due to China’s stricter quality controls and aggressive market competition.

Despite these challenges, the data shows an industry experiencing explosive growth. Narvaez noted that the Philippines’ world durian export volume has skyrocketed from a mere 540 metric tons in 2021 to 16,073 metric tons in 2024—representing a staggering 2,876.48% growth.

Infrastructure is also catching up. Belviz noted that the number of durian exporters in Davao has jumped from just four in 2023 to 23 in 2025. Furthermore, there are now 26 durian packing houses and 795 registered farms covering over 1,800 hectares.

Commercial success is already being realized. Just earlier this month, during the China International Import Expo in Shanghai on November 5, three Davao-based exporters clinched deals with Chinese importers worth US$36.6 million.

To sustain this momentum, Narvaez suggested establishing a distinct “National Identity” for Philippine durian, positioning its bold flavor profile as a premium standard while adhering to sustainable production practices.

Belviz added that while the export market is lucrative, the local market remains a sleeping giant with high potential due to currently low local consumption rates.

To date, Philippine durian has reached markets in China, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, the UAE, South Korea, Japan, the USA, Australia, the UK, and Taiwan. The industry is now eyeing entry into new territories, including New Zealand, Egypt, and Uzbekistan.

As the two-day summit continues, the focus remains clear: transforming the Philippine durian industry from a promising contender into a global powerhouse.

November 26, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

BPI holds media friendsgiving 2025

by Ian Ray Garcia November 19, 2025

written by Ian Ray Garcia

SEDA Abreeza Hotel transformed into a page straight out of a modern fairy tale as BPI Davao hosted its annual Media Friendsgiving 2025 under the enchanting theme “Once Upon a Dream” on Tuesday, November 18.

More than just a year-end toast, the gathering brought together Davao’s journalists, broadcasters, and content creators to celebrate 365 days of shared stories and trusted partnerships.

“This gathering is a way for us to celebrate our efforts to achieve our dreams, even if they’ve changed over time. Through your platforms, you help us tell wonderful stories of hope, innovation, and empowerment. You help us reach people where it matters most in their daily lives. And for that, we are truly grateful,” said Elena Torrijos, BPI Head of Public Affairs and Communications.

*BPI head of public affairs & communications Elena Torrijos*

In a video message, BPI president and CEO Jose Teodoro “TG” Limcaoco traced the bank’s own origin story back to 1851 and showed how that first dream still beats at its core.

*BPI president and CEO Jose Teodoro Limcaoco*

“We continue to dream of a nation where progress is inclusive, where technology empowers, and where sustainability secures the future for generations to come.”

BPI chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala followed with an equally stirring message, reaffirming the bank’s unwavering focus on sustainability, digitalization, financial inclusion, and nation-building. “We remain steadfast,” he said, “in creating an environment where every Filipino is empowered to do more, inspired by the same sense of possibility that all our childhood dreams once gave us.”

Of course, no fairy tale is complete without a feast—and BPI delivered not just a sumptuous dinner but also riotous games and generous giveaways led by head of external communications and media relations Joey Silvestre.

In a year that sometimes felt more like a plot twist than a dream sequence, BPI Davao’s Media Friendsgiving 2025 reminded everyone in the room of a simple truth: when storytellers and dream-makers sit at the same table, the next chapter is always worth writing. Here’s to 175 years of turning “once upon a time” into “and they lived prosperously ever after!”

November 19, 2025 0 comments

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