Showing posts with label tourism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tourism. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

SM Prime plans to continue developing SM North Edsa

MALL operator SM Prime Inc. said it will continue to develop its first mall in the country—SM City North Edsa in Quezon City—as it continues to be its flagship mall despite building other bigger shopping malls in the country.
SM Prime Holdings President Hans Sy said the retail landscape in the last 30 years “has become more global and competitive where technology has forever changed the way we live and do things.”
“They said that SM City [North Edsa] would not succeed, but the mall was an instant success,” Sy said.
From a footprint of only 125,000 square meters on opening in 1985, it has grown in size to almost 498,000 sq m. 
From its original shoe-box design, the mall now draws an average foot traffic of 420,000 shoppers a day.
The company said its 30-year-old mall, which is also one of its biggest malls in terms of gross leasable area, will continue to grow “like a vibrant city as it adds more office spaces and a hospitality complex, a unique combination of high-end retail, dining and green spaces, highlighted by a series of five office towers connected by pedestrian sky bridges.”
The mall has gone through several redevelopments which began with the Car Park Plaza in 1988, the SM Annex in 1989, the Block in 2006, The Annex and Interior Zone in 2008, the Sky Garden in 2009 and Northlink in 2010.
In the past years, SM Prime also built new spaces for various concepts such as for business-process outsourcing (BPOs) companies and other private offices to further feed traffic into its malls, especially during weekdays. 
The North Link is a six-story building, while SM Cyber West Avenue is a 15-story building. Both buildings are meant for the BPOs, and are linked via bridge way to the mall.
It also built Grass Residences, a five-tower residential condominium building which stands on a 5-hectare property within the SM City North Edsa Complex.
“We have changed the Filipino lifestyle forever. Our malls are indeed as they are called—cities, places where families and friends gather to shop, eat out, have fun, and even do their business transactions and hear Mass. We have become part of the lives of millions of Filipinos,” Sy said.
Source: by BusinessMirror  / http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/sm-prime-plans-to-continue-developing-sm-north-edsa/

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

CEBU BUSINESS FORUM - SECTION ON MEDICAL TOURISM

June 22, 2006 - DTI-Cebu Chamber of Commerce's Business Month ended with a big bang today. The main venue is the convention center of Waterfront-Lahug where many activities happened simultaneously, including a very extensive exhibit of Cebu's major trade players and conferences in different venues on different aspects of Cebu Business.

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here

One of the bigger conference was the section on Medical Tourism. The existing major players in Cebu's infant medical tourism business presented interesting perspectives on the issue. Dr. Amores presented "Medical Tourism - the Experience at Cosmetic Surgery Center of Asia". A very interesting discussion followed the presentation.

It became too apparent during the conference that if ever the Philippines wants to get serious about medical tourism, it faces the serious task of institutionalizing this novel segment of medicine. It can start by integrating the disjointed (and at times haphazard) efforts of DTI, DOH and DOT.

Lasik eye surgery, Medical Tourism

cebumedicaltourism-eye-surgery

7 Days / 6 Nights

Rate: US$ 2,635

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here


Description:

A full service package of Lasik treatment, spa experience, relaxing stay in Cebu’s most popular hotels, cultural city tour and personal service by Cebu Health and Wellness representatives.

Inclusions:

  1. Pre-screening check-up, Lasik Procedure, Post-op check-up, Medicine Kit
  2. Hotel accommodation for 7 Days/ 6 Nights with breakfast: 4 Nights at Marco Polo Plaza Hotel | 2 Nights at Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, or equivalent De Luxe resort
  3. Arts, Culture and Heritage Tour
  4. A soothing Philippine spa experience for 1 person
  5. Airport assistance upon arrival and departure
  6. Car service to hospital or clinic for check- ups
  7. Personal Assistant – a Cebu Health and Wellness representative to set appointments and accompany the client for treatments.

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here



Cosmetic Dental - Cebu Medical tourism

cebumedicaltourism-dental-cosmetics15 Days City Stay

Rate: US$ 4,177

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here

Description:

You will smile away all the way after this smile holiday. A comprehensive diagnostics and dental treatment, combined with a relaxing stay in one of Cebu’s iconic city hotels, a culture and heritage tour and soothing spa experience and personal service.

Inclusions:

  1. Comprehensive Dental Check Up in a fully equipped Dental Clinic.
  2. Panoramic xray, oral prophylaxis, Porcelain Veneer and Bridges
  3. Treatment schedule as necessary
  4. Hotel Accommodation at MarcoPolo Plaza Hotel or equivalent hotel category
  5. Cebu City Culture and Heritage Tour
  6. A soothing Philippine Spa experience for 1 person
  7. Airport assistance upon arrival and departure
  8. Car service to hospital or clinic for check- ups
  9. Personal Assistant – a Cebu Health and Wellness representative to set appointments and accompany the client for treatments.


Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here



Success Story from Cebu Medical Tourist

“I’ve been wearing glasses and contacts for 16 years.
My poor vision was very frustrating and I was tired of relying on contacts and glasses.
It’s amazing how a few minutes completely change my life.
Thank you Cebu Doctors ‘University Hospital Centre for Sight and your wonderful staff.
You just gave me my priceless possession CLEAR VISION.”

Wilma M. Tuñacao, D.D.M
Tunacao Dental Clinic

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here

“I had been “half blind” all my life and never in my wildest dreams that could see clearly. I can’t live without my glasses or contact lenses before, it has always been a hassle for me and I could say its part of my lifestyle already, but when I found out that there was a remedy for my case, I’ve researched a lot and finally decided to undergo LASIK. After the surgery I felt amazed to see clearly all the things that’s surrounds me without the aid of glasses nor contact lenses and I am more confident now and I felt that this start of a new life. LASIK was really a life changing experience and this is one of the best decisions I made in my life. Thank you to your wonderful team for being so sympathetic and warm to their patients. Job well done for all the staff of Cebu Doctors’ University Hospital Centre for Sight!”

Honey Margaret Alviola –Lepalam
U.A.E.

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here


“In my life I had lot of decisions-but my decision to get a LASIK at Cebu Doctors’ Hospital Larrazabal Eye was definitely one of my best! The surgeon and his wonderful team are absolutely professional, lovely and made an excellent job. But the best is: I CAN SEE WITHOUT MY GLASSES! Thank you so much.”

Rouven Bӧse
Germany

In Cebu, my counterpart advised the dental services of Perpetual Succour Hospital. Dr. Clarissa made me a new tooth which till today makes my Dutch dentist jealous!

Klaas de Boer
The Netherlands

Alfons van DuijvenbodeThe resort and spa facilities in Cebu are amazing. A world class experience of premium service at incredibly low cost. I rate Cebu as one of the top destinations for the combination of holiday, health and wellness! It’s not only the quality standards and the natural beauty, it is most of all the hospitality of the people that give you an unforgettable experience.

Alfons van Duijvenbode
The Netherlands

Wouter PutThe dental procedures in the Perpetual Succour Dental Clinic were outstanding! High quality, extraordinary service and amazingly low cost. I can recommend the dental treatments wholeheartedly.

Wouter Put
The Netherlands

Cosmetic Medical Tourism

Smile Holiday – Dental Cosmetic

Smile Holiday – Dental Cosmetic

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here

15 Days City Stay
Rate: US$ 4,177
Description:…
You will smile away all the way after this smile holiday.

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here


Why Cebu for medical tourism?

Cebu is the Philippines top island destination. Branded by Conde Nast Travel Magazine as among the World’s top island destinations, Cebu prides itself on rich historical, and cultural heritage. Only a few minutes away from the city are numerous white sand beaches, crystal blue waters, and swaying palms, making Cebu a perfect destination for both business and leisure. Outside of the city are some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the world.

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here

Cebu is home to world class hotels, magnificent beach resorts and excellent Asian cuisine. Together with the people’s hospitality and state of the art medical, dental and health and wellness facilities, it forms one of the best destinations for medical tourism in the world.

Why Cebu for medical tourism?

  • Affordable cost of quality standards, comparable to US and to Europe
  • Cebuanos are known to be excellent caregivers, trained in the best schools in the country and abroad
  • Cebuanos have good command of the English language and high affinity with Western culture
  • Less waiting time with pre-arranged schedules for tests and procedures
  • Wide array of choices for tour and travel packages & world-class tourist facilities

Medical Tourism in the Philippines Come to the Wellness Islands!


Medical tourism in the Philippines is the practice of traveling to Cebu, Philippines to have a medical, dental, or surgical procedure performed, while at the same time touring, vacationing, and enjoying the country.

Most often the medical procedure is an elective one that is not immediately required under time limits.

medical tourism in the philippines

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here

The most common of these elective, non-time sensitive procedures in Cebu are dermatology (skin related), cosmetic or aesthetic surgery, routine dental services, aesthetic dental procedures, weight loss surgery, and opthalmology (eyesight related).

There are 2 primary reasons that you should consider medical tourism in the Philippines.

The high cost of health care in industrialized countries is often 10 or more times the cost of the same procedure in Cebu.

And the recent advances and improvements in technology has increased the standard of care available.

Also, there is a time factor that you neeed to consider if you live in a country with socialized health care such as Canada or some of the EU countries.

Some medical procedures in these countries may require a wait of a year or more. In Cebu, you can arrive on a certain day and within 2 or 3 days have the procedure performed.

Why have cosmetic surgery?

There is no doubt that most cultures are youth centered.

Maintaining a youthful appearance helps you in many ways. The most obvious advantage in maintaining a youthful appearance is your appeal to the opposite sex.

Whether you are single or married, attraction of your partner or potential partners is important to maintaining that magnetic sex appeal.

Looking good also helps you feel good about yourself! Studies have also shown that good looks are a factor in earning more money and receiving promotions at work.

Why Medical Tourism in the Philippines?

Cebu clearly has many advantages as a medical tourist destination.

English is widely spoken in Cebu and is the primary language of instruction in all of the universities.

Also, Filipinos have a natural tendency as excellent caregivers. This is partly due to the fact that there are no nursing homes here to care for the elderly, consequently family members must care for their parents and grandparents.

The low cost of the medical procedures, accommodations, food and transportation in Cebu make it a very attractive destination. There are also a large number of spas and massage centers to facilitate recovery and relaxation.

Finally, the medical staff often consists of personnel that have been trained in the U.S., Japan, or Singapore.

All in all, medical tourism in the Philippines, specifically Cebu, has several advantages to the medical tourist. So, come to the wellness island of Cebu and look good, feel good, and have a good time!

WHY INVEST IN CEBU?


* It is not just a promise or potential, Cebu demonstrated its capability with an excellent economic track record.

* It is the second largest city and fastest growing economy in the Philippines.

* Cebu’s export growth rate for the past 5 year has averaged close to 20 percent considerably higher than that of the country and any other province in the Philippines.

* It leads the country in export items such as furniture, fashion accessories, carrageenan and gifts, toys and housewares.

* It is the most accessible place in the Philippines, with more domestic air and sea linkages than Manila.

* Cebu is base to over 80 percent of inter-island shipping capacity in the Philippines.

* Cebu is the Tourism Gateway for the Central and Southern Philippines.

* It is not in an earthquake zone or typhoon belt, nor are there volcanoes in the island.

* Cebu has one of the best records for peace and order in the country.

* Its labor force is oriented towards non-agriculture lines and is one of the most productive in the country.

* The development of its infrastructure is balanced; it has all the ingredients necessary to be competitive and sustain investments. It is a cosmopolitan with all the support facilities and amenities needed for an ideal lifestyle.

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here

West Cebu Industrial Park (WCIP)
Location: Barangay Buanoy, Balamban
Area: 202 hectares
Developer: Cebu Industrial Park Developers, Inc.
Phone: (6332) 2320396 / 3332263
Fax: (6332) 2320395 / 2321029
Contact: Mr. Emmanuel Matuco

Mactan Economic Zone II
Location: Barangay Basak, Lapulapu City
Area: 63 hectares
Developer: AboitizLand, Inc.
Phone: (6332) 3404680 / 3404684
Fax: (6332) 3404670
Contact: Eduardo Pebenito, Operations Manager

South Road Properties
Location: South Coastal Road, Cebu City
Area: 300 hectares
Developer: Cebu City Government
Phone: Call CIPC : (6332) 2330811
Fax: (6332) 2330818

Asia Town IT Park
Location: Salinas Drive, Lahug, Cebu City
Area: 24 hectares
Developer: Cebu Property Ventures & Dev’t. Corp.
Phone: (6332) 4127257
Fax: (6332) 2315300
Contact: Raul Mananquil, Administrator

Cebu Light Industrial Park (CLIP)
Location: Barangay Basak, Lapulapu City
Area: 70 hectares
Developer: Science Park of the Phils.
Phone: (6332) 3407367 / 59
Fax: (6332) 3407350
Contact: Delo Y. Aton, Manager, Corp. Affairs

Taft IT Zone
Location: Mandaue City
Area: 5.7 hectares
Developer: Taft Property Ventures Development Corp.
Phone: (6332) 2315166 / 4157888
Contact: Fausto Lim

Mactan Economic Zone I
Location: Lapulapu City
Area: 150 hectares
Developer: PEZA
Phone: (6332) 3400595
Fax: (6332) 3400591
Contact: Sansaluna Pinagayao, Zone Administrator

New Cebu Township One/Cebu Techno Park
Location: Barangay Cantao-an, Naga, Cebu
Area: 50 hectares
Developer: MRC Allied Industries, Inc.
Phone: (6332) 2726572
Fax: (6332) 2726568
Contact: Engr. Rogelio Balajadia, Zone Administrator

MRI Ecozone
Location: Sabang, Danao City, Cebu
Area: 28.29 hectares
Developer: Mitsumi Realty, Inc.
Phone: (6332) 340-0607 or 255-0073
Contact: Edwin P. Alvero

WHY CEBU IS NO.1


Even before the Spanish colonization, Cebu already played a vital role in trade and commerce in Asia because the island has been gifted with a natural harbor. Its channel is deep enough to accommodate the flow of goods through international cargo sea vessels, and the Mactan island serves as protection from winds and current.

Invest Cebu Medical Tourism, click here

Cebu’s weather promises to be good for business because typhoon activities are minor and rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year. Moreover, the island is not located within any earthquake belt, there is no known active volcano, and its international airport has been large enough to connect the island to several continents.

The public administrators of the province have been known to be development-oriented, steering Cebu to greater heights by putting in place infrastructure facilities needed for economic growth.

Cebu has at least nine economic zones that offer to cut bureaucratic red tape by providing a much easier system for investors, plus incentives.

It is number one because of good fiscal management: it ranks highest among the country’s provinces in terms of assets and cash in bank.

Most importantly, Cebu ranks number one because of the current unity that has never been seen before in any province: unity among elected officials, unity among business groups, unity among its people, and unity between the private and public sectors.

There are many universities and other educational institutions that serve as magnet to students from other provinces, a major factor of a highly skilled and efficient workforce in Cebu.

Overall, Cebu continues to excel and investors are drawn to Cebu because of the culture of professionalism and craftsmanship among its people, the vast highly skilled manpower resources resilient amid trying times, its fair weather, relative peace and business-friendly atmosphere.

source: cebu province site

Special Resident Retiree's Visa, Benefits


Benefits


Once you are an SRRV Visa holder, it opens the door to vast opportunities and benefits. These include:

1. Option to Retire Permanently

• You may live, work and study in the Philippines

2. Multiple Entry Privileges

• You may travel outside the Philippines and re-enter anytime

3. Exemptions from:

• Income tax over your pension and annuities;
• Exit and re-entry permits of the Bureau of Immigration;
• Annual registration requirement of the Bureau of Immigration;
• Customs Duties and Taxes with regard to the importation of household goods and personal effects up to US$7,000.00;
• Travel tax, if you stay in the Philippines is less than one year from the last entry date; and
• I-Card

As an SRR Visa holder, the PRA can assist you in obtaining basic documents from other government agencies. These include, but are not limited to:

• Alien Employment Permit
• Driver's License
• Tax Exemption/Extension Certificate
• Tax Identification Number
• National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance


FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SRRVISA SERVICE, CALL (6332) 3181589 | +639173236123




Special Resident Retiree's Visa

Starting May 05, 2011, more SRRV options will be made available for you to choose from on how to Retire in the Philippines through the SRRV Products.

You can choose from the SRRV SMILE, the SRRV CLASSIC, SRRV HUMAN TOUCH, and the SRRV COURTESY.
Please refer to the table below for the requirements and the qualifications for each program Kindly coordinate with PRA thru email add inquiry@pra.gov.ph for complete details on the requirements for each SRRV option.

IMPLEMENTING DETAILS OF PRA PRODUCTS

(As of May 05, 2011)

REQUIREMENTS SRRV SMILE SRRV CLASSIC SRRV HUMAN TOUCH SRRV COURTESY
1. Age and Visa Deposit
  1. 35 Years Old & Above - US$20,000.00
NOTE: Additional Visa deposit - US$15,000.00 per dependent in excess of two (2).
  1. 35 - 49 Years Old - US$50,000.00
  2. 50 Years Old & Above:
  • Without Pension - US$20,000.00
  • With Pension - US$10,000.00

NOTE: Additional Visa deposit - US$15,000.00 per dependent in excess of two (2).

Show proof of monthly pension remitted to the Philippines (US$800.00 for single applicant and US$1,000.00 for married couples)*

  1. 35 years old & above = US$10,000.00
NOTE:
Retiree must:
  • Be shown to have a pre-existing condition (except contagious diseases) and in need of medical care and services.
  • Show proof of monthly pension remitted to the Philippines equal to at least US$1,500.00.
    1. 35 Years Old and above for Former Filipino citizens = US$1,500.00
    2. 50 Years Old and above for Ambassadors / Retired Diplomats who served in the Philippines = US$1,500.00

    NOTE: Additional Visa deposit - US$15,000.00 per dependent in excess of two (2) except for Former Filipinos.

    2. Convertibility of Deposits
    1. LOCKED-IN in the bank.
    • Inconvertible into investment.
    • Intended for end of term needs and obligations of retiree.
    • Withdrawable upon cancellation of SRR Visa.
    1. May be converted into investments.
    2. Total amount of Investment must be at least US$50,000.00 for conversion to be allowed.
    NOTE: For investment in condominium or long-term lease of House and Lot, units must be Ready For Occupancy.
    1. Same conditions prescribed under SMILE enrolment program.
    1. May be converted into investments.
    NOTE: For investment in condominium or long-term lease of House and Lot, units must be Ready For Occupancy.
    3. Application Fees
    1. US$1,400.00 for the Principal
    2. US$300.00 for each Spouse/Dependent
    NOTE: One-time payment only.
    1. US$1,400.00 for the Principal
    2. US$300.00 for each Spouse/Dependent
    NOTE: One-time payment only.
    1. US$1,400.00 for the Principal
    2. US$300.00 for each Spouse or Dependent
    NOTE: One-time payment only.
    1. US$1,400.00 for the Principal
    2. US$300.00 for each Spouse/Dependent
    NOTE: One-time payment only.
    4. Monetary Obligation/s
    1. US$360.00 Annual PRA Fee (APF) for Principal, Spouse, and (1) Child upon enrollment and every year thereafter.
    2. US$100.00 for each dependent in excess of two (2).
    1. US$360.00 Annual PRA Fee (APF) for Principal, Spouse, and (1) Child upon enrollment and every year thereafter.
    2. US$100.00 for each dependent in excess of two (2).
    NOTE: Previous fees, i.e. Visitorial Fee, Harmonization Fee & Management Fee are deemed waived.
    1. US$360.00 Annual PRA Fee (APF) upon enrollment and every year thereafter.
    NOTE: To cover one (1) dependent only.
    1. US$10.00 Annual PRA Fee (APF).
    5. Depository Bank
    1. PRA Designated Banks
    1. PRA Designated Banks
    1. PRA Designated Banks
    1. PRA Designated Banks
    6. Bank Account Name
    1. PRA
    1. PRA
    1. PRA
    1. PRA
    7. Documentary Requirements
    1. Duly accomplished SRRV Application Form.
    2. Original Passport with Valid Entry Visa
    3. Medical Examination Clearance
    4. Police Clearance and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
    5. ID Pictures - twelve (12) pieces of 2"x2"
    6. Additional Proof of Relationship for joining SPOUSE / CHILD.
    NOTE: All documents obtained / issued abroad must have an English translation and duly authenticated by the Philippine Embassy / Consular Office.
    1. Duly accomplished SRRV Application Form.
    2. Original Passport with Valid Entry Visa
    3. Medical Examination Clearance
    4. Police Clearance and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
    5. ID Pictures - twelve (12) pieces of 2"x2"
    6. Additional Proof of Relationship for joining SPOUSE / CHILD.
    7. Pension Documents*
    NOTE: All documents obtained / issued abroad must have an English translation and duly authenticated by the Philippine Embassy / Consular Office.
    1. Duly accomplished SRRV Application Form.
    2. Original Passport with Valid Entry Visa
    3. Medical Examination Clearance
    4. Police Clearance and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
    5. ID Pictures - twelve (12) pieces of 2"x2"
    6. Health Insurance Policy
    7. Pension Documents
    8. Additional Proof of Relationship for joining SPOUSE / CHILD.
    NOTE: All documents obtained / issued abroad must have an English translation and duly authenticated by the Philippine Embassy / Consular Office.
    1. Duly accomplished SRRV Application Form.
    2. Original Passport with Valid Entry Visa
    3. Medical Examination Clearance
    4. Police Clearance and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
    5. ID Pictures - twelve (12) pieces of 2"x2"
    6. Additional Proof of Relationship for joining SPOUSE / CHILD.
    NOTE: All documents obtained / issued abroad must have an English translation and duly authenticated by the Philippine Embassy / Consular Office.
    8. Payor 1. Principal Retiree or his Authorized Representative. 1. Principal Retiree or his Authorized Representative. 1. Principal Retiree or his Authorized Representative.

    * With Pension Scheme





    Monday, April 9, 2012

    Tourism, BPOs drive retail sector

    By Katlene O. Cacho

    Wednesday, April 4, 2012

    CEBU’s increasing po­pu­lation, the influx of foreign tourists and the acceleration of property development are the key drivers of its thriving retail industry, according to real estate advisor CB Richard Ellis Philippines (CBRE).

    “Given the prevailing consumer demand and its absorptive capacity, Metro Cebu is now the apple of the eye of both regional and national retailers,” CBRE said in a recent market study.

    INVEST in Medical Office Condominium, EARN GOOD CASH FLOW

    CBRE said Metro Cebu’s retail sector is buoyed by the expansion of the tourism industry, increased number of real estate developments, growth of the BPO sector and the other industries that thrive in the south.

    For 2011 and 2012, CBRE Philippines estimates about 120,000 square meters (sq.m) of new office space for BPO tenants, which could generate employment for about 19,000 workers. The firm said this provides the “cue to retailers to expand their business and partake of this growth opportunity.”

    Retail hub

    CBRE described Cebu as a maturing major retail hub in the southern Philippines that has the potential to become the newest retail destination in Asia, with the right push and consistent support from both public and private sectors.

    The study showed Cebu retailers are directly benefiting from the upsurge in tourist arrivals from shopping requirements as well as increased demand from the Horeca (hotels, restaurants and catering services) sector.

    The rapid build-up in property development (office space and residential) in Cebu has also helped the retail sector.

    Mixed use

    “The retail sector thrives with the proliferation of mixed use office-retail buildings and residential condominium developments. Retail sales growth will be buoyed by the demand coming from residents and employees,” the study said.

    CBRE Philippines estimates 49,400 sq.m of BPO space that will be completed in the next two years in Cebu IT Park.

    Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) Cebu former president Melanie Ng, in earlier interviews, said the performance of the sector despite global problems can be attributed to the increased purchasing power of Cebuanos, especially those employed in BPO and IT companies.

    The optimism of the sector, she added, is also evident in the number of new malls that will open soon and the continued entry of international brands.

    Forever 21, an American-owned fashion chain opened in Cebu last year. Fast Retailing Co. Ltd., on the other hand, is also eyeing Cebu for the second phase of Uniqlo’s expansion in the Philippines, according to reports.

    Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on April 05, 2012.

    Friday, February 24, 2012

    At last, I saw my Shangri-La


    By Arlene M. Perez (The Philippine Star) Updated February 19, 2012 12:00 AM

    Photo is loading...
    This is my idea of paradise in Cebu--the Shangri-La Mactan --with an endless stretch of white sand and clear water.
    | Zoom

    MANILA, Philippines - Months before my solo balikbayan trip to the Philippines, I was looking through Shangri-La Mactan Hotel’s awesome pictures on the web. My mind would wander around stunning shots of the hotel grounds,swimming pools and especially the beach.

    My fantasy became reality last year when, after landing in Manila, my relatives joined me on a short flight from Manila to Cebu. We were welcomed by the Shangri-La Mactan hotel staff at the Mactan International Airport and shuttled us to the resort. I was personally greeted by Mildred Amon, director of communications, as I was checking in with a welcome drink at The Ocean Wing.

    Everything turned out as beautiful as the photos on the web. My room was comfortable and spacious. I was greeted with a bowl of fresh fruits (including my favorite, mango!), a welcome beach bag with goodies from their local vendors and a breathtaking view of the beach. At night, after the staff turned down the bed, I got a pair of flip-flops too!


    Own your first Condo for as low as 3,500/month

    Everything here is so modern, so clean, so refreshing.

    Our stay included breakfast buffet either at the Acqua or Tides Restaurant, so I tried both places. On the buffet table was a variety of dishes meant to please American, European and Asian tastes. From garlic fried rice and dangit, to sushi and congee, what else could I ask for! Oh yes, let’s not forget the sweet mangoes! I must have eaten over a dozen mangoes per sitting. Yes, my dieting was also on vacation mode.

    The main lobby was simply grand, and I discovered that guests at The Ocean Wing have a separate lobby. At night, Shangri-La Mactan’s lounge comes alive with a band for listening or dancing the night away. The hotel’s garden was just amazing. I swam in two of their three swimming pools. The main pool had a waterslide that was just perfect for this family-friendly resort. The infinity pool is located next to the Acqua Restaurant. What can I say? The view was breathtaking.

    And so to bed, with suite dreams.

    Now let’s talk about the beach. It’s private! There’s white sand and clear water, so clear that you can see the colors of the fish. I don’t think there’s any other beach with whitesand in Cebu. They’ve got cabanas and a helpful staff for the water activities. Snorkeling was so much fun. I tried kayaking, too. It was my first time, but it was easy! As I was paddling, I started imagining the things that my kids would have enjoyed at the Shangri-La Mactan. I could see my twin girls, Alisal and Amanda, playing in the sand, and probably wished they could surf, too. Those two would have just stayed out on the beach until they turned unrecognizably dark. My son Christian would jet-ski, parasail and ride the banana boat for sure! Tony, my better half — who’s actually patiently taking care of the kids back in Southern California — and I would be paddling away in a two-seater kayak. So romantic! I really felt bad and guilty that I was enjoying this amazing resort without them.

    I tried two of Mactan Shangri-La's three swimming pools!

    The Buko Bar served buffet dinner, which included lechon, which is what Cebu is known for. Friday night was the Filipino Folk Dance show and a photo op with the dancers. Oh, and celebrities, too: I bumped into Dr. Elenita Binay, wife of the Philippine Vice President, and her son, Makati Mayor Junjun Binay at The Ocean Wing lobby. The Binays were there as special guests at a wedding.

    Back home in Los Angeles, I was chatting with my old high school friend in London through Facebook about this awesome resort. She told me that they’ve always wanted to see Cebu and stay at the Shangri-La Mactan. I told her I would never go back... without my family, that is.

    * * *

    Shangri-La Mactan Resort &Spa is located on Punta Engano Road, Lapu-Lapu City, 6015 Cebu, Philippines. For inquiries and reservations, call (63-32)231-0288; fax (63-32)231-1688; or visit www.shangri-la.com.

    Retirement facility seen to spur tourism growth


    By Ehda M. Dagooc (The Freeman) Updated February 24, 2012 12:00 AM View comments

    CEBU, Philippines - Although Cebu has yet to position itself as the premier “retirement” destination to attract the multi-million-dollar retiree market all over the world, the proposed establishment of a retirement facility could jumpstart Cebu’s potential in this market.

    Department of Trade and Industry Cebu Provincial Office (DTI-CPO) director Nelia F. Navarro lauded the decision of businessman and exporter Justin Uy to develop a 10-hectare Retirement Village in Consolacion that will be completed in the next five years.

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    According to Navarro despite the good environment for Cebu to catch the increasing number of international retirees looking for retirement homes in the tropical countries like the Philippines, there are still a lot of concerns that need to be worked out in order for Cebu to take off as the premier retirement destination.

    For one, she said it’s not effective to market Cebu as one, because of the lack of right facilities to accommodate the interested market. Besides, the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) also still has to review its policies in attracting this market, as well as encouraging the investors.

    Thus, Cebu at present is capitalizing on positioning Cebu as “Light Medical Tourism Destination”, instead of promoting the province as a “retirement destination.”

    Navarro said she will personally talk with Uy on this retirement village facility plan, and may also provide inputs on how it will be designed and done, based on her inspection in different facilities in the United States, and other countries.

    For the meantime, while the plan is still raw, Cebu will have to maximize its strength in the huge medical tourism market, which is to focus on providing services for the active retirees, who may not necessarily live in Cebu yet, but experience the place for vacation, leisure and some of their medical needs.

    In a separate interview with Cebu Health and Wellness Council (CHWC) vice chairperson Jenny Franco, she said that while Cebu is gaining popularity from overseas market in terms of light medical services such as dental, cosmetics, including wellness and leisure, it its marketing is focused on this proposition.

    At present, Cebu has to work on this advantage, while its capability to offer hard-core medical services such as Kidney transplant, among others can be done in Manila, Franco said.

    Cebu now is the top pick destination for light procedures in medical services, like executive check up, cosmetic treatment and surgery, dental, combined with leisure and wellness activities.

    This is what Cebu is banking on, in order to maximize its inviting environment for medical tourists, Franco said.

    CHWC is going to go full-blast in its campaign to promote Cebu as “LightMedical Tourism Destination.”

    Stakeholders, through the CHWC is now formulating a unified packages for medical tourists who seek minor medical services, at the same time wanting to enjoy and have “fun” while on medical vacation in Cebu.

    “We already have packages as an association, but we are enhancing it and add more activities,” said Franco adding that a website will also be set up to offer these packages online.

    Aside from the huge “balikbayan” market, Cebu is gaining popularity to medical tourism market from Singapore, Bahrain, Australia, United States, and Europe. (FREEMAN)



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