BY ALEX ALAGON
Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc. and V-Green Charging Station Development Philippines, Inc. recently signed a strategic partnership to install electric vehicle (EV) chargers at strategic Phoenix stations nationwide, making Phoenix the first fuel company in the Philippines to collaborate with V-Green in expanding the country’s EV infrastructure.
Under the agreement, Phoenix will lease designated station spaces to V-Green for EV charger deployment. Three Phoenix station sites in Luzon are already under construction, with site visits for Cebu and Davao scheduled as part of the next phase.
The collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of clean and sustainable transportation in the Philippines, enabling more VinFast customers to access convenient charging points and supporting Green GSM’s rapidly growing EV taxi fleet.
“This is more than just a contract signing—it’s the beginning of a meaningful partnership,” said Kim Ira Cabaccang, General Manager for One Retail of Phoenix Petroleum. “We are proud to work with V-Green to enable more sustainable transport solutions. This move reflects our dual-energy approach, combining traditional fuels with emerging clean technologies to meet the evolving needs of Filipino commuters.”
“Our mission has always been to make green mobility accessible, scalable, and impactful,” said Luu Viet Hung, CEO of V-Green Philippines. “Partnering with Phoenix allows us to reach even more communities and build a nationwide charging network that supports our growing EV fleet.”
The partnership reflects Phoenix’s commitment to sustainability and its role in shaping the energy transition in the Philippines. Together, Phoenix and V-Green aim to create a future where mobility is both efficient and environmentally responsible.
PUERTO PRINCESA, Philippines — U.S. Marines with the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D) 25.3 Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) are joining the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for Exercise Alon 25, a bilateral amphibious training exercise conducted at locations across the islands of Palawan and Luzon, from August 15-29.
During Alon — meaning “wave” in Tagalog — the MRF-D MAGTF will provide a headquarters element, a reinforced rifle company, and an aviation detachment in support of training focused on strengthening maritime security, increasing combined capability, and enhancing interoperability among participating forces.
In total, over 3,600 personnel are participating in Exercise Alon 25 including members of the ADF and AFP, U.S. Marine Corps, and elements of the Royal Canadian Navy.
To kick off training, MRF-D MV-22B Ospreys assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 363 will transport Australian and Philippine special operations forces during military free-fall operations, allowing bilateral operators the opportunity to refine critical parachuting skillsets out the back of a novel airframe.
The MRF-D MAGTF is set to participate in a simulated Combined Joint Forcible Entry Operation (CJFEO) to demonstrate the full range of multinational military operations in realistic training scenarios. MRF-D MV-22B Ospreys will insert U.S. and Philippine ground forces alongside Philippine Black Hawk helicopters to simulate seizing key terrain while Philippine and Australian forces conduct a simultaneous amphibious raid. Both CJFEO events together will demonstrate a unified capability to project force, secure vital terrain and maintain regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
“The pivot from crisis response to Exercise Alon is a testament of the relationships we’ve built with our regional partners and another chance to prove them in the field,” said Col. Jason Armas, commanding officer of the MRF-D 25.3 MAGTF. “Operating with the ADF and AFP in the Philippines by sea, air, and on the ground sharpens our combined edge and ensures we can respond fast and hit hard when crises emerge in the Indo-Pacific.”
Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones AO CSC, Royal Australian Navy, emphasized the value of relationship building when conducting exercises such as Alon.
“Amidst all the capability and equipment we bring to Exercise Alon 25, the value of this training comes from the people-to-people links and the opportunity to exchange practices when we conduct an exercise of this scale.”
This year’s training will also incorporate subject matter expert exchanges and a multinational live-fire maritime strike exercise, with participating forces integrating command-and-control, aviation, logistics, and fires capabilities.
MANILA CITY, Philippines — Damosa Land, Inc. (DLI), the leading homegrown real estate developer in Mindanao, proudly emerged as the Best Boutique Developer at the 13th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, held on Aug. 15 at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila. The recognition marks a significant milestone for the Davao-based firm as it continues to elevate regional real estate to national prominence.
Now in its 13th year, the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards remains one of the country’s most respected real estate programs, honoring companies and developments that set the benchmark for excellence in architecture, sustainability, and innovation. This year’s ceremony cast a spotlight on the growing influence of developers beyond Metro Manila. “The market has expanded and diversified,” said Jules Kay, managing director of PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards. “Emerging destinations like Visayas and Mindanao are now leading the charge.”
Chairperson Cyndy Tan Jarabata also emphasized that developers embracing innovation and sustainability—while remaining rooted in cultural identity—are playing a vital role in shaping smarter, greener, and more livable communities across the Philippines.
Damosa Land was recognized across six major categories, reinforcing its position as a leading force in both residential and industrial development. “These awards are a celebration of our vision to create future-ready communities where sustainability is not a feature but a foundation,” said Ricardo “Cary” Lagdameo, president of Damosa Land. “We dedicate this recognition to our partners, stakeholders, and the communities who continue to inspire us to build better and more meaningfully across Mindanao.”
Championing Lifestyle, Innovation, and Livability in the South
Among Damosa Land’s award-winning projects is Kahi Estates, which took home Best Biophilic Landscape Design and Best Subdivision Development. This agri-residential enclave integrates over 100 trees, vegetable plots in each lot, and eco-friendly systems such as pervious pavers, rainwater catchments, and underground utilities. Designed to promote wellness and sustainability, Kahi reflects a future-forward model of subdivision living.
Also securing two major wins is Agriya Gardens, another rising subdivision within the 88-hectare masterplanned township in Panabo City – Agriya. Initially shortlisted in the regional category, the project stunned audiences by claiming both Best Housing Development (Metro Davao) and the national title of Best Housing Development (Philippines). Designed with California Mission-style architecture, the community offers both modern aesthetic appeal and environmental function in features such as permeable pavers, a detention pond, a one-kilometer linear park, solar-powered streetlights, and a community farm that will encourage residents to make eco-conscious living part of their everyday routine.
Over in Samal, Bridgeport Park was awarded Best Waterfront Condominium Development, building on its previous Highly Commended recognition in 2022. With panoramic views of the Davao Gulf, the city skyline, and Mt. Apo, the project blends Atlantic-inspired coastal charm with resort-style amenities, including a forest park and the island’s longest linear pool.
Meanwhile, Anflo Industrial Estate (AIE)—Mindanao’s premier agro-industrial hub—earned a Highly Commended recognition for Best Industrial Development. Strategically located and infrastructure-ready, AIE continues to attract investors while generating local employment and driving regional growth.
A Homegrown Vision With National Impact
More than just building properties, Damosa Land is building a movement—one that places sustainable growth, purposeful design, and community well-being at the core of real estate development. Its recent recognition among national peers affirms that regional developers like Damosa Land are not only capable of competing on a larger stage but are also helping shape the future of the industry.
With over two decades of experience, Damosa Land has long embedded sustainability into every aspect of its projects—well before it became an industry trend. From residential estates that honor the South’s agricultural heritage to industrial zones that enable long-term economic resilience, the company’s developments are rooted in a unified purpose: to build communities that are future-ready, resilient, and inclusive.
“Every project we build is a reflection of our promise to push progress forward with the next generation in mind, while remaining anchored in the values and culture of our region,” added Lagdameo. “We hope that as we continue to grow, more of the country sees what Mindanao has to offer—not just in beauty, but in opportunity.”
To learn more about Damosa Land’s award-winning developments, visit www.damosaland.com.
QUEZON CITY — The toxics watchdog group EcoWaste Coalition welcomed the progress in the ongoing efforts to develop a Chemical Control Order (CCO) regulating benzene, a known carcinogen, by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB).
As one of the 10 chemicals or groups of chemicals of major public health concern as identified by the World Health Organization (WHO), the group expressed optimism that the finalization and eventual promulgation of the CCO will contribute to the effective control on the use of benzene with the end view of reducing occupational and environmental exposure to this category one carcinogen, or a substance that can cause cancer in humans as per the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
The EcoWaste Coalition particularly welcomed the posting of the revised draft CCO for benzene on the EMB website for further public comments. “Unless no technically and economically feasible alternative for replacement is available,” the CCO “prohibits the importation, manufacture or use of benzene and benzene-containing mixtures in the following applications: paints, varnishes, coatings, solvents, and thinners; glues, contact cement and rubber goods; solutions for textiles, fabrics and leathers; inks and dyes; cleaning and degreasing agents; and toys and other children’s products.”
The group in November 2023 submitted pertinent comments to strengthen the original draft CCO, noting that its development and promulgation was in line with the newly adopted Global Framework on Chemicals – For a Planet Free of Harm from Chemicals and Waste (or the GFC), which seeks to “prevent or, where prevention is not feasible, minimize harm from chemicals and waste to protect the environment and human health, including that of vulnerable groups and workers.”
To better understand how benzene is regulated in other countries, the group reached out to partner groups in Asia-Pacific and in Europe. Relevant information on current regulatory controls provided by colleagues from India, Malaysia, South Korea, Australia, and the European Union was compiled and provided to the DENR-EMB.
As reflected in the revised draft CCO, the DENR-EMB has positively considered some of the suggestions provided by the EcoWaste Coalition, such as the following:
1. Prohibition on benzene and benzene-containing mixtures in “toys and other children’s products” to protect Filipino children who are particularly susceptible to risks and harms caused by benzene and other hazardous chemicals;
2. Replacement of the word “may” with “shall” in the provision tasking the DENR-EMB to develop a phase-out plan for the allowed uses of benzene as this will indicate the government’s commitment to green chemistry and show support to the GFC target on “the transition to safer and more sustainable chemical alternatives.”
3. Inclusion of “online marketplace and electronic commerce systems” in the section on liability to address the problem with the digital trade of controlled chemicals, particularly by unauthorized persons or entities.
4. Creation of a new section on “Coordination with Other Government Agencies” for better alignment of benzene-related policies and programs. This will, according to the group, “create better linkage across diverse sectors” (another GFC target), especially among government regulators.
Since the draft prohibition only applies “unless no technically and economically feasible alternative for replacement is available,” the EcoWaste Coalition reiterated its earlier proposal that juridical applicants should be required to provide information to the DENR-EMB on the risks and benefits of the proposed use of benzene and possible alternatives. Adding this in the “General Requirements and Procedures” will support the GFC target on “better transparency and access to information regarding chemicals and their associated risks,” the group said.
Finally, the EcoWaste Coalition suggested a periodic review of implementation of the CCO, with the participation of stakeholders, to assist the DENR-EMB in assessing the effectiveness of the order and the necessary measures to improve compliance and enforcement.
As stated by the WHO: “Human exposure to benzene has been associated with a range of acute and long-term adverse health effects and diseases, including cancer and haematological effects. Exposure can occur occupationally, in the general environment and in the home as a result of the ubiquitous use of benzene-containing petroleum products, including motor fuels and solvents. Active and passive exposure to tobacco smoke is also a significant source of exposure.”
“Public health actions are needed to reduce the exposure of both workers and the general population to benzene,” the WHO emphasized.
BINTANA Art Gallery proudly participated in the 3rd Recovery Championship 2025, a two-day golf tournament held on Aug. 16–17 at South Pacific Golf Course and Palos Verdes Golf Course.
The event gathered golf enthusiasts and advocates in celebration of Kadayawan 2025.
Bintana Art Gallery’s involvement underscored the value of partnerships between the arts and health-centered events.
The tournament concluded with an awards night and fellowship at the PWC Auditorium, where four paintings from the gallery were raffled off to lucky winners.
Team Bintana included Mindanao Times editorial cartoonist Alex Alagon, Engr. Rome Celecious, Engr. Rolando Albores, and Engr. Winnie Leano.
AN ESTABLISHED health infrastructure is an essential component in ensuring that health systems can respond effectively to current and emerging public health challenges. The DOH Davao People’s Resiliency for Renewed Development Building reflects this need.
Last Aug. 4, this building was officially inaugurated, celebrating service milestones and looking at the future of public health in the Davao Region.
The DOH Davao building is envisioned to support the evolving needs of the health sector by serving as a hub for health development in the region.
To solemnize the occasion, Fr. Primitivo S. Guinit, MI, and Fr. Dennis E. Morales, MI, led the blessing of the public spaces, rooms, ambulances, and transport vehicles of the facility.
Despite the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic constraints, the building stands as a product of the visionary leadership of DOH Undersecretary Dr. Abdullah B. Dumama Jr. and the collective perseverance of the leaders whom he guides.
The DOH Davao building adopts the Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE) Green Building Rating System to operate sustainably in all fronts. The five-storey building features, to name a few, a rainwater harvesting system, submeters to track utilities per floor, and natural ventilation to keep the building cool and energy-efficient. It also has a wellness urban garden, fitness facility, a child-minding center, and size-adaptive conference halls.
In his message, Dr. Dumama Jr. recognized the people behind the success of the project, commending their unwavering dedication to strengthening local health infrastructure.
“This building reflects our continued efforts to enhance local health systems and ensure that essential services remain within reach of the communities we serve,” Dr. Dumama said during the inauguration.
The activity was attended by health leaders from various DOH Centers for Health Development (CHDs) in the country: Dr. Annabelle P. Yumang, Director IV, Wester Visayas CHD; Atty. Jo David Z. Borces, Attorney III, Central Visayas CHD; Dr. Lenny Joy J. Rivera, OIC, Director IV, Zamboanga Peninsula CHD; Dr. Sulpicio Henry M. Legaspi, Jr., Director IV, Northern Mindanao CHD; Dr. Aristides Conception Tan, Director IV, Soccsksargen CHD; Dr. Sadaila K. Rak-in, Director IV, Caraga CHD; Dr. Ahmed-Fawardz A. Israel, Director II Head, Technical Services, MOH BARMM; and leaders and representatives from DOH retained hospitals and attached agencies, Provincial/City Health Offices, Provincial Department of Health Offices, former employees and retirees of DOH Davao, employees and guests.
The DOH Davao building features a design inspired by the Philippine Eagle’s beak, symbolizing guardianship and purpose. This embodies leadership and service—both rooted in pride, resilience, and compassion. (DOH Davao PR)
PHILHEALTH announces the nationwide launch of the enhanced PhilHealth Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (PhilHealth GAMOT), a comprehensive outpatient drug benefit package that covers essential medicines. PhilHealth GAMOT is a key part of the PhilHealth YAKAP Program, which President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. announced in his recent State of the Nation Address, underscoring this Administration’s vision of a healthier Philippines.
PhilHealth GAMOT includes 75 types of free medicines with an annual benefit limit of Php 20,000 per beneficiary. These medications are common treatments for a wide range of conditions, such as infections (anti-microbial), asthma and COPD, diabetes, high cholesterol (dyslipidemia), high blood pressure, and heart conditions (cardiology), and nervous system disorders, along with other supportive therapies.
To avail of the PhilHealth GAMOT, members should be registered in their PhilHealth YAKAP Clinic of choice. Following a thorough medical assessment, their primary care doctor will then issue a prescription containing a Unique Prescription Security Code (UPSC), as necessary. The beneficiary can then proceed to any GAMOT Facility and show the prescription and present any government-issued ID Card.
Currently, the accredited GAMOT Facilities are:
● Vidacure with branches in Muntinlupa City and Quezon City
● Pharma Gen Ventures Corp (Generika Drugstore) with branches in Parañaque City, Navotas City, Quezon City, and Taguig City
● CGD Medical Depot Inc. at Vertis North
● Chinese General Hospital
PhilHealth is actively expanding its network by engaging more partners to increase access for beneficiaries. In NCR, two other facilities have submitted their letter of intent to join the program.
PhilHealth Acting President and CEO Dr. Edwin M. Mercado reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to provide access to a comprehensive set of cost-effective and quality health services. “Noong 2023, nailunsad na natin ang PhilHealth GAMOT ngunit ito ay naisagawa lamang sa iilang probinsya. Kaya naman ngayon mas pinalawak na natin ito. Karapatan ng bawat Filipino na magkaroon ng access sa mga kinakailangang gamot nang hindi pinapasan ang mabigat na gastusin mula sa sariling bulsa.”, Dr. Mercado stated.
PhilHealth is also reminding all its members to keep their records updated to ensure seamless transactions when availing of benefits.
For more details on PhilHealth GAMOT, members may call PhilHealth’s 24/7 touch points at (02) 866-225-88 or at mobile numbers (Smart) 0998-857-2957, 0968-865-4670, (Globe) 0917-1275987 or 0917-1109812.
BY ALEX ALAGON
Go Hotels Bacolod has officially unveiled its fresh new identity as Go Hotels Plus Bacolod, ushering in a new era of travel comfort in the heart of the City of Smiles. The transformation introduces modern amenities, refreshed interiors, and enhanced guest experiences—all while staying true to the brand’s promise of budget-friendly stays.
“Today marks a significant milestone for Go Hotels Bacolod as we evolve into Go Hotels Plus,” said Joy De Mesa, Group Director of Sales and Marketing. “Our guests deserve comfort, style, and convenience, and this rebranding reflects our unwavering commitment to meeting those expectations.”
During the launch event, guests and media were treated to a firsthand look at the newly upgraded rooms, sampled signature local delicacies, and explored the hotel’s versatile function room—an ideal venue for Bacolod’s dynamic meetings sector. Designed to accommodate up to 50 guests, the facility offers a modern and flexible space perfect for business gatherings, corporate functions, and special celebrations.
Travelers can expect premium comfort with plush 100% cotton linens, chiropractic and hypoallergenic pillows, complimentary Wi-Fi across all 105 rooms, and in-room safety deposit boxes. The property’s strategic location offers easy access to Robinsons Place Bacolod, major transport hubs, and iconic city landmarks such as The Ruins, The Negros Museum and Lakawon Island
Guests eager to experience the upgrade can take advantage of introductory rates starting at ₱1,500 (Room Only) for Superior Rooms from July 11 to September 30—a generous markdown from the published rate of ₱3,019. Whether traveling for business or leisure, Go Hotels Plus Bacolod delivers unbeatable value in the heart of the city.
Go Hotels Plus Bacolod joins other Plus locations in Naga, Mandaluyong, and Tuguegarao, further strengthening the brand’s footprint as a smart travel choice across the Philippines.
