Capiz to host 1st int'l triathlon on April 22-23, 2017

One major international sporting event will come to the Capiz next year as the province will host TriAksyon, a triathlon race scheduled on April 22-23, 2017.

Jose O. Borres, chairman of Capiz TriAksyon, revealed on a press conference held on December 12 at Villareal Stadium poolside that the event is expected to draw around 300 athletes from around the world.

"Triathletes from countries like Singapore and Hongkong have already inquired online, and signified their intention to join the competition," said Borres. "Also, we encourage each municipality in Capiz to form a team and join the event."

Aside from promoting sports to Capizeño, the purpose of the TriAksyon is for the tourism of the province.

"This activity will serve as promotion of Capiz being the ‘Seafood Capital of the Philippines’ and let other people around the globe know that Capiz still exists and has a lot to offer,” said Borres.

Borres further detailed that the TriAksyon competition will cover a route of 54 kilometers, passing through Roxas City and the town of Panay. Participants may join in the following categories: Trikids, Sprint, Standard, and Relay.




Registration will be done online, via official website www.capiztriaksyon.com. Registration fee ranges from P2,000 to 2,500.

He added that the organizers are already working out on bringing SEA Games gold medalist Claire Adorna and international triathlete Betsy Medalla to the event.

The triathlon will be one of the highlights of next year's Capiztahan, an annual commemoration of the foundation day of the province.

"I'm very excited with this triathlon, more so because we have help from private sector who will help the tourism of our province," said governor Tony del Rosario.

The provincial government will shell out funds for the event depending on proposals of the organizers, and it will be taken from the proposed P6 million budget intended for the whole Capiztahan Festival.



Provincial tourism and cultural affairs officer Alphonsus D. Tesoro said that aside from the main competition, the province will also hold peripheral activities to maximize the tourism impact of the event.

"We are planning to put up regional exposition that will be tied in to the triathlon," Tesoro said. "We'll make sure that there will be many side events, considering that this is also part of the Capiztahan."




The tourism office is now readying 1,197 individual hotel rooms in the province to accommodate the athletes and tourists who will be gracing the event.

The province will hold a grand launching of the Capiz TriAksyon 2017 in January to promote the event even more in the region, around the country and internationally.

Megaworld to open VIP Cinema at Festive Walk Mall Iloilo

How about watching your favorite blockbuster movie while resting on a comfortable recliner, with butler waiting for a push of a button to deliver you unlimited drinks and popcorn?

Ilonggos will soon enjoy the world class movie experience that Megaworld Corporation brings to its lifestyle malls with the opening of VIP Cinema middle of 2017 at the Festive Walk Mall in Iloilo Business Park (IBP).

Denisse Patricia C. Malong, senior leasing manager of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, divulged to us (Iloilo press and bloggers) this exciting development during the soft opening of the phase 1 of Festive Walk Parade on December 20, 2016.

"We have a total of 7 cinemas, 6 world class digital cinemas and one will be the VIP theater. The VIP theater is what we have in Manila in Uptown [Mall Bonifacio], in Eastwood it's Ultra 7, and we have it in Venice Grand Canal," Malong explained.

"So it has a LaZ Boy-type of seat, by couple, and then it has unlimited popcorn and drinks, and it has butler service. You just sit down, press a button and then a butler will come and ask you what you want."

The Festive Walk Mall with these amazing cinemas and other shops is expected to open its doors to Ilonggos mid-2017. It will be inter-connected to Annex (another set of buildings that is under construction) and the Parade via an access bridge.

The Festive Walk Parade is a 1.1-kilometer dining and shopping strip, the longest of such hub outside of Luzon. "The intention of the Parade is to be the center of nightlife in Iloilo," said Malong.

Initially, five tenants had soft opening at the Parade on Tuesday, namely, Grillers, 13th Street Espresso, Tinukib, Dulgies, and Biscocho House. A total of 25 shops will open at the phase 1 of the strip, some of which will start serving the next few weeks.

The grand opening of the Parade is tentatively set on January 17, 2017.




Megaworld IBP is a mixed-use master planned township development located in the old airport area in Mandurriao district, covering a total land area of 92.9 hectares. Currently it houses the world class Richmonde Hotel and Courtyard by Marriot, a host of BPO buildings, upscale restaurants, and the iconic Iloilo Convention Center.

I'm pretty sure you all can't wait to experience this VIP Cinema right here in the City of Love! Follow me on this blog or through my Facebook page and Twitter account for more exciting updates in Megaworld Iloilo Business Park.

Festive Walk Parade at Iloilo Business Park opens December 20

Brace yourselves Ilonggos for the longest dining and shopping strip in the City of Love as Festive Walk Parade will open at Megaworld Iloilo Business Park on December 20, 2016.

Festive Walk Parade is the centerpiece of the 72-hectare mixed-use township's leisure and lifestyle concept at Mandurriao district.

The 1.1-kilometer avenue will be home to most classy restaurants, bistros, retail shops and boutiques that will showcase the exciting culinary and entertainment adventures which will surely attract Ilonggos and visitors alike.

In their website, Megaworld IBP posted about this exciting destination:

"It is ensured to transform into an all-in-one shopping and dining strip, one of the longest in the country. Retail shops, bistros, boutiques, open parks and a serene environment will attract Ilonggos and visitors.There will be a space for serene ecology, wellness and scenic appreciation of the city life. The future BPO buildings, hotels, condominium towers and other commercial destinations in the township will provide a steady influx and movements of people within this leisure destination."

Of course, the Festive Walk Parade is just a few steps away from other developments in the IBP such as the Festive Walk Mall (under constuction), BPO buildings, international hotels Marriott Courtyard Hotel and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo and the iconic Iloilo Convention Center.

I got an invitation for the opening on Tuesday, December 20, around 11 AM. Words going around that at least 10 stores will open on that day.

So expect to see updates on my Facebook page, probably a Facebook Live broadcast if the internet connection permits, as we tour around the shops that will open on Festive Walk Parade on that day.

Keep it here at Nonoynet.com, and see you at the newest shopping, dining and entertainment hub in Iloilo City, Festive Walk Parade!

S&R Membership Shopping opens 12th store in Iloilo

Finally, world class shopping galore can now be experienced by Ilonggos as S&R Membership Shopping opens its 12th store in the Philippines at Donato Pison Avenue, San Rafael Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

The big day for volume shoppers happened on Friday, December 16, and a day before that I was invited together with Iloilo media and bloggers for a press launch and tour around the store/warehouse which is located at the back of Plazuela Dos, near People's Condo.

S&R is a membership-shopping club modeled after the warehouse membership shopping chains in the United States. They provide imported merchandises to members at the best value for money prices.

Everybody's favorite at S&R: New York Style Pizza!

The store is well-loved for their Food Service station, which offers the popular New York Style Pizzas, calzones, churros, Blue Bunny Ice Creams, Clam Chowder, Rotiseserie and Southern Style Chicken, hotdogs, cheeseburgers, fries and more.

The gourmet selection of freshly baked breads, cakes and pastries is awesomely prepared using imported ingredients.

S&R VP for Operations Greg Kreyer talking to media and bloggers before the store tour.

Greg Kreyer, S&R vice president for operations, toured us around the warehouse, and we readily saw their wide range of imported groceries which are hard to find locally. One would surely love their selection of fruit juices, sodas, chocolates, snacks, spreads, condiments, canned goods, etc.

I came to the store looking for hard to find matcha tea, and I'm happy they have it.

They also have widest choices on health and beauty products, household essentials, quality produce such as fresh meat, fruits, vegetables, seafoods, frozen goods, and poultry on the highest grade.

I'm sure Iloilo restos are happy that S&R is finally here because of these quality meats.

Their line of home appliances and furnishings features trusted brands worldwide. They even have tires and automotive products, and a facility which offers free services exclusive to its members.

With the turnout of the pre-opening registration for membership, I am pretty sure that Ilonggos are very excited for the S&R opening.




"We are very happy to be in Iloilo. Iloilo will turnout to be the biggest membership signups prior to opening of any of our 12 warehouses," Kreyer said.

How to be a Member

S&R offers Gold Membership for individuals aged 18 years old and above, and Business Membership. Here are the requirements:

• Application form, which you may get at their store.
• 2 valid picture IDs.
• Fee of P700 annually for the the Gold Membership. You also get an extension card for your immediate family members for an annual fee of P400.
• Business Membership has higher fee of P900, with one free add-on card. Primary cardholder may add up to 3 extension cardholders.

So to register, you just go their store at San Rafael, fill out the application form, present your valid IDs and pay the membership fee. They will take your photo through the webcam, input your data at the computer, and then after a few minutes they will issue the membership card and give you the value coupons booklet.

Yes, I got my card! 

Membership benefits and perks are:
1. First pick imported name-brand merchandise
2. Exclusive deals and discounts
3. Unmatched everyday savings
4. Access to specialty services
5. Shopping privileges at ALL S&R branches nationwide

Here's the exact location of S&R Iloilo.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up for membership now, and experience world class shopping (and of course their delicious pizza!) at S&R Iloilo!

Esplanade River Ride to offer pedal boat rentals starting December 1

Ilonggos may now enjoy the scenic view of Iloilo River on a boat as Iloilo Esplanade River Ride will start offering pedal boat rentals starting December 1, 2016.

The Esplanade River Ride, managed by Ilonggo Recreation and Amusement Corp., announced that their colorful 6-seater pedal boats will treat Ilonggos and tourists to a guided river tour along the clean and beautiful stretch of Iloilo River.

According to their official Facebook page, the river tour will start at the installed floating pontoon docks at the Esplanade to nearby Carpenter's Bridge, and all the way to Iloilo City Hall Area.

Floating pontoon where the pedal boats will dock.

In guaranteeing the safety of passengers, the management said that their team has been trained and certified by Philippine Coast Guard on Water and Rescue Training.

They will also implement the following published rules and regulations, which are based on City government, Coast Guard and CENRO guidelines.

Rules on Pedal Boat Rentals

1. Wear your life jacket at all times. Your safety is our top priority.
2. Do not purposely rock the boat to cause it to capsize.
3. You are responsible for all damages you cause on the boat due to diligence.
4. Keep our river clean. There shall be a fine of P500 for any type of garbage thrown in the river.
5. No food and alcoholic drinks allowed in the boat. Fishing is strictly prohibited.
6. Pedal boats should be operated following a counter clockwise direction only.
7. Stationary boats must stay in the middle of the river away from the moving boats.
8. Boundaries: 25 meters away from Carpenter's Bridge and 25 meters away from Diversion Bridge.
9. Pedal boats are not allowed to dock anywhere except at the floating dock.
10. ABSOLUTELY NO SMOKING. Iloilo City is a smoke free city.
11. We have the right to refuse service to repeat violators/offenders of our rules.

Pedal boats at night. Photo by Celeste Deslate.

Iloilo Esplanade River Ride will operate from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM only.

Rates

Pedal boat rental is P480 Pesos per Boat per 30 minutes ( or P80 Pesos per person for 30 minutes). You can rent the boat by yourself or share it with your friends. Ticket booth is located at the Tabucan end of Iloilo Esplanade, in front of I AM Iloilo sign.

As a promo, Esplanade River Ride will offer FREE 30-minute ride on Wednesday, November 30 to all netizens who will share their announcement posted on Facebook.

So what are you waiting for, go to their Facebook page now and share their post to earn a free ride! See you there at Iloilo Esplanade!

S&R Iloilo to open December 2016

Ilonggos, the world class shopping experience is now within our reach as S&R Membership Shopping will open in San Rafael, Mandurriao this December 2016.

UPDATE: S&R Iloilo has officially announced that they will open the store on December 16, 10AM.

Facebook user Al Conte, one of those who worked for the project, posted in social media that S&R Iloilo will open on December 16.

S&R is a warehouse-type establishment that offers its club members high quality products and an experience of shopping in the U.S. as 70% of its stocks are American and imported brands. The rest of the items are locally made products, but still guarantees shoppers satisfaction, savings and value for membership.

The inventory includes food items, wines and liquors, meat products, bath and body products, towels, beddings, electronics, appliances, household items, and a lot more at very affordable prices.

S&R is also known worldwide for its Food Service, which offers vast array of options from pizzas to rice meals. Popular among shoppers are the New York-style pizzas and Blue Bunny Premium Ice Cream.

They also have club croissants, hotdogs, French fries, calzones, baked rolls, roast chicken with rice, cheese burgers and cinnamon churros, perfectly paired with their bottomless soda.

S&R Iloilo warehouse at Donato Pison Avenue, San Rafael, Mandurriao.

Membership

If you want to this great shopping experience at S&R Iloilo, you may sign up for Gold Membership now by filling up the application form (HERE) and bringing it together with 2 valid photo identification (I.D.) cards or documents to their office at San Rafael Mandurriao.




S&R Gold Membership costs P700 for the first year. One extension CARD per household is available for P400 for the first year. Membership is valid at all S&R locations around the country.

For inquiries, you may call membership department at (033) 3232701 or 3232702. See you at S&R Member Shopping Iloilo on December 16! [Photo credits: Al Conte Facebook]

H&M opens 1st store in Iloilo!

H&M Hennes & Mauritz, Inc. continues its fast growth in the country, as it opens its first store in Iloilo this month!

Opening to an exciting set of new shoppers in the fast-developing city of Iloilo, the over 1,800-square meter
store will open its doors in SM City on November 17.

“2016 has been an amazing year so far! Our stores in Cagayan de Oro and Davao have been welcomed with so much enthusiasm, and we are eager to reach out to more shoppers outside of the capital with our latest venture into SM City, Iloilo.

With the opening of our 19th store in the Philippines, we continue to strive to become the country’s destination for fashion and quality at the best price, in a sustainable way,” says Fredrik Famm, Country Manager for South East Asia.

Iloilo’s first H&M store will stand at more than 1,800 square meters will carry fashion for Ladies, Men, Kids, Divided, and H&M Sport. Within all of these the mindful shopper will find an array of Conscious and sustainably-produced products, and offer the option to donate used clothes to get a discount voucher they can use for their next purchase, courtesy of H&M’s Garment Collecting program.

The store will be fully operational at the height of the holiday shopping season, providing a wide array of choices for customers’ gifting needs. Highly recommended is the H&M Gift Card, reloadable with any value of your choice for as low as P300.

SM City Iloilo will open with great exclusive offers! In each store, gift cards of varying amounts from P300-P2,000 will be handed out to the first 200 in line, with a special prize of P5,000 for the first. The next 300 will walk away with special H&M umbrellas and tote bags.

A special treat also awaits stylish shoppers – 5 of the most fashionable people spotted in the queue before opening will be chosen and given P2,000 Gift Cards each.

H&M SM CITY ILOILO will open on November 17, with operating hours of 11am-10pm on the first day, and regular operating hours from 10am-10pm (following lengthened holiday shopping hours) resuming the day after.

LOOK: Waterworld Iloilo soon to open

The wait for the first water park in Iloilo City will soon be over as Waterworld Iloilo is readying its amenities for an exciting splashing adventure for Ilonggos!

Poised to become the newest tourism destination in the City of Love, Waterworld Iloilo will open at Centennial Resort Hotel And Convention Center in Alta Tierra Village, Jaro district.

Ms. Dyan Tiu See posted on Facebook some photos of the under construction park, and it looks like it will have plenty of indoor and outdoor water slides (with some as tall as 4-storey building), rides, and pools for the enjoyment of entire family.

Colorful and exciting water slides all over the park.

She captioned in one of the posts that it will also feature lazy river as one of the exciting recreations. The whole park will also be powered by solar energy.

Water slides as tall as 4-storey building.

Indoor slides perfect for those who don't want to be tanned by scorching summer sun.

Waterplay at Waterworld Iloilo.

Aerial view of the water park.

Funtasea indoor at Waterworld.

Waterworld goes solar!

The management is still mum on the tentative opening date, but based on photos posted online it may not take that long before we enjoy this amazing development.




Keep it here at Nonoynet.com and please Like my Facebook page for I will surely inform you on the opening date and the latest updates about Waterworld Iloilo. [Photo credits: Dyan Tiu See and Waterworld Iloilo Facebook]

Blind Ilongga wows in France Got Talent

A blind but very talented Ilongga brought her singing prowess to France, and once again wowed the audience in a reality television show France Got Talent.

Katchry Jewel Golbin, a 25-year-old native of Tapaz, Capiz, passed through the elimination round of the reality show with her French version of the musical hit "I dreamed a dream" by Les Miserables.

The audience and judges were astounded with her emotional performance, some even teary-eyed while listening to her. She got the standing ovation, and a ticket to the next round of the competition.

Golbin, also known as Alienette Cdfr in Facebook, also amazed viewers with her mastery of French language, which she only learned in the internet with the help of some friends.

Watch her performance:


In a Facebook post, Golbin thanked her followers "who supported me in the beginning of this extraordinary adventure."

"I'm counting on your presence to accompany me at the next step. I need you to help me achieve this dream fantastic!
Thanks to you, I saw a waking dream!! I love you."

Golbin went to Iloilo City National High School in Molo, and studied college in Central Philippine University in Jaro.

DOH Region 6 Online Recruitment for Healthcare Professionals

Once again, the Department of Health is hiring doctors, nurses, midwives, medical technologists, dentists and public health associates as part of Human Resource for Health (HRH) Deployment Program 2017. In Region 6, the initial registration for application is done online.

I'll show you how to do it below, based on my experience as I did trial registration.

DOH - HRH 2017 Program aims to improve local health systems that will support the country’s attainment of All for Health towards Health for All or “Lahat para sa Kalusugan tungo sa Kalusugan para sa Lahat” by hiring healthcare professionals to be deployed to rural health units, birthing homes and barangay health stations.

The program includes the following qualifications, and respective salaries:

• Nurse Deployment Project (NDP) for Nurses - Php 26,878.00
• Universal Health Care Implementers for Doctors - Php 56,000.00
• Dentist Deployment Project (DDP) for Dentists - 29,028.00
• Rural Health Midwives Placement Program (RHMPP) for Midwives - Php 14,931.00
• Medical Technologist Deployment Project (MTDP) for Medical Technologist - Php 24,887.00
• Public Health Associates Deployment Project (PHADP) for Bachelor’s Degree graduate of any health allied course - Php 19,940.00

The DOH Region 6 covers the provinces of Iloilo, Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Guimaras and Negros Occidental.

If you are interested, here's how to apply online. DOH-6 announces that online registration and application is only from October 29 to November 3, 2016.

DOH 6 Online Recruitment

1. Go to DOH Region VI Online Recruitment portal thru this direct link: DOH 6 Online Recruitment Program. You must have fast internet connection to access the site and avoid inconvenience. You will be directed to the page that lists down the requirements.

2. Click 'My Profile' link. The next page User Login Interface has the 'Sign In/Register' button, click it. Then the next page has two tabs, Sign In and Register. Of course, if it's your first time then you click the Register tab which will enable you to register an account by filling in your personal information such as Full Name, Email Address, and Password that you want. Click 'Sign Up' button.

3. Go to 'My Profile' link again. On the page that loads, click 'Application' button. This is where you submit your application. The form has selection for what program are you applying, other cadre you are interested in, your personal info such as date of birth, address, contact numbers, email. You may also give rating to their online application process. After filling it out, Submit your application.

4. Confirmation Slip should be on the next page. You Download, Print, and Sign it. Confirmation slips will serve as Examination Permit during qualifying exam. It looks like this:

That's it! Also, please read other information in the online portal such as requirements needed. The confirmation slip which is downloadable in Microsoft Word format has important information on instructions on the qualifying exam.




Please share your experience on the DOH 6 Online Recruitment Program portal below through our Facebook Comments section. For more information, you may contact DOH 6 HRD through the following:

DOH ROVI Human Resource Development Unit
dohrovi.hrdu@gmail.com
(033) 321-3673 local 127/ 321 -1036
www.ro6.doh.gov.ph

I hope this simple tutorial helps all of you nurses, doctors, medtechs, midwives, dentists, PHAs in your online application. Please share online for your friends who might be interested in this job opportunity. Don't forget to Like my Facebook page Nonoynet for more updates. [Photo credits: AsianHospital.com]

SM City Iloilo Southpoint expansion opens November 11

The ultimate shopping and entertainment destination in region has more to offer as SM City Iloilo opens its Southpoint Expansion on November 11, 2016!

SM City Iloilo Southpoint was first constructed as a two-story annex of the mall in 2009. It is now occupied by Starbucks and J.CO Coffee and Doughnuts.

The mall developer SM Prime Holdings then decided to turn the former parking space in the south portion of the mall into a 25,000-square meter floor area of dining strips and restaurants.

SM City Southpoint has open spaces covered with greens perfect for al fresco dining. The new building also has a bridge that connects the new edifice to the 3rd level of the main mall, right into the SM Cinema floor.

Here's the initial list of restaurants and coffee shops that will open at SM City Iloilo Southpoint:

• Niño's Burritos
• Bistro Ocean City
• San Jose Cafe
• The PitStop Restaurant (Mango Pizza)
• Vikings: Luxury-Buffet Restaurant
• Spicy Elements
• Charcoal Boy Grilled and Seafoods
• Jamie's Steakhouse
• Sweet Cravings
• Cafe Diem
• Pizzaro

Some of the shops and restaurants mentioned above will open on a later date. See you all at the opening of SM City Iloilo Southpoint Expansion on November 11!

Reminders for Oct. 23, 2016 Civil Service Exam takers

Civil Service Commission will administer the Career Service Exam - Paper and Pencil Test (CSE-PPT) on October 23, 2016 nationwide, with test centers in Iloilo, Bacolod and Kalibo. Here's some reminders issued by CSC Regional Office 6 for examinees this weekend.

The Public Assistance and Liaison Division issued the following advisory:

Reminders for Oct. 23, 2016 Career Service Exam

Examinees for the Career Service Examination- Pen and Paper Test (Professional and Subprofessional levels) scheduled on October 23, 2016 are advised that the gates of testing venues will be closed at 7:30AM during the examination day. Examinees that arrive later than 7:30AM will no longer be admitted. This is pursuant to Civil Service Commission Exam Advisory No. 14, s. 2016 dated October 7, 2016.

On the other hand, in accomplishing the Answer Sheet, examinees will be using only black ballpen in filing out all text fields and in shading answers. They should also wear proper attire during the examination. Sleeveless shirt/blouse, short pants, and slippers are not allowed.

Examinees are reminded to bring their Identification Card, preferably the same I.D. card presented during filing of application or present any of the accepted valid ID cards stated in Exam Advisory No. 14, s. 2016. In case the ID has no date of birth, the examinee should present his or her original Philippine Statistics Authority (formerly National Statistics Office) or Local Civil Registrar issued birth certificate printed on security paper.

CSC Regional Office VI previously announced that a total of 11,867 examinees will take the Professional test while 2,466 examinees will take the SubProfessional level test in Western Visayas.

If you are one of those who applied, you may check your school and room assignments in this post.

CSE-PPT examinees in the Iloilo will take the test at Iloilo National High School, Iloilo City National High School, Jaro National High School, Mandurriao National High School and West Visayas State University.

Iloilo International Airport ranks 12th in Asia!

Wow! Iloilo International Airport is now at 12th place in the recent survey of the Top 30 Best Airports in Asia in 2016, according to travel website.

The Guide to Sleeping in Airports (www.sleepinginairports.net) makes an annual ranking of the world's best and worst airports based on an online survey where travelers are asked to rate the services and facilities, terminal cleanliness, customer service and comfort of all the airports in the world.

In their recently published post dated October 15, 2016, Iloilo airport in Cabatuan is the highest ranking among 4 airports in the Philippines included in the Asia's Top 30. Mactan-Cebu International Airport is at no. 14, Clark International Airport at no. 15, and Davao International Airport at rank 26.

This is a big leap for Iloilo's pride as it jumped 9-notch higher after ranking at 21st last year!

In one of the reviews, traveler named as 'datrekker' commented that " Iloilo International Airport (ILO) is, at the moment, probably the best-looking and most efficient airport in the Philippines."

Changi Airport of Singapore maintains its place as the best airport in Asia and the world because, according to the site, its "terminals twinkle, the staff are exceptional, the amenities are boundless and navigation is nearly effortless."

Here's the complete list of Asia's best:

Top 30 Airports in Asia

1. Singapore Changi International Airport, Singapore (SIN)
2. Seoul Incheon International Airport, South Korea (ICN)
3. Tokyo Haneda International Airport, Japan (HND)
4. Taipei Taoyuan International Airport, Taiwan (TPE)
5. Osaka Kansai International Airport, Japan (KIX)
6. Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong (HKG)
7. Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia (KUL)
8. Tokyo Narita International Airport, Japan (NRT)
9. Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, India (BOM)
10. New Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport, India (DEL)
11. Nanjing Lukou International Airport, China (NKG)
12. Iloilo International Airport, Philippines (ILO)
13. Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, India (HDD)
14. Mactan–Cebu International Airport, Philippines (CEB)
15. Clark International Airport, Philippines (CRK)
16. Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport, India (BLR)
17. Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand (BKK)
18. Cochin International Airport, India (COK)
19. Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport, Vietnam (HAN)
20. Jakarta Soekarno–Hatta International Airport, Indonesia (CGK)
21. Surabaya Juanda International Airport, Indonesia (SUB)
22. David the Builder Kutaisi International Airport, Georgia (KUT)
23. Kualanamu International Airport, Indonesia (KNO)
24. Johor Bahru Senai International Airport, Malaysia (JHB)
25. Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport, Japan (NGO)
26. Davao Francisco Bangoy International Airport, Philippines (DVO)
27. Trivandrum International Airport, India (TRV)
28. Da Nang International Airport, Vietnam (DAD)
29. Kaohsiung International Airport, Taiwan (KHH)
30. Multan International Airport, Pakistan (MUX)

Ninoy Aquino International Airport is still on the Asia's worst list at no. 5. Survey respondents complain of the bullet-planting scam, frequent power outages, lapses in air conditioning, uncomfortable (and insufficient) seating and complicated terminal transfers, according to the website.

Anyway, congratulations to our very own Iloilo International Airport for being one of Asia's best!

Burger King opens at SM City Iloilo

The flame-grilled burger known the world over has come to Iloilo City as Burger King opens its doors to Ilonggos on Friday, 14 October 2016.

The first Burger King store in Iloilo will be serving their famous Whopper and other unique eats at 3rd floor (4th level) of SM City Iloilo, in a place vacated by computer stores near the Cinemas.

The Whopper is the signature hamburger of the chain, consisting of savory flame-grilled beef topped with juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, creamy mayonnaise, ketchup, crunchy pickles, and sliced white onions on a soft sesame seed bun.

As the only flame-grilled burger in the market, the Whopper is always extra juicy and ensures that it locks in the flavor to create the best burger experience that mall-goers in SM City Iloilo can now enjoy.

The Florida-based chain is also known for its must-try Four-Cheese Whopper, and its crispy, juicy, cutie Chicken Fries!

Ilonggos will surely line up at the opening of the newest store of Burger King, where Taste is truly King! See you there! [Photo by SM City Iloilo]

Civil Service Exam School Assignments in Region VI now out

Civil Service Commission (CSC) will conduct the Civil Service Exam Paper and Pencil Test (CSE-PPT) on October 23, 2016 nationwide, and in Region 6 the exam will be given at schools in Iloilo, Bacolod and Kalibo, Aklan.

Check out the list of approved examinees and their room and school assignments for both Professional and Subprofessional level below.

CSE-PPT is administered by the Commission to establish a Register of Eligibles (RoE) from which certification and appointment to first and second level positions in government service.

Based on the alpha list issued by CSC Regional Office in Western Visayas, a total of 11,867 examinees will take the Professional test while 2,466 examinees will take the SubProfessional level test.

If you are one of those who applied, you may check the Online Notice of School Assignment through this link provided by the CSC: http://enosa.csc.gov.ph/enosav3/. You need to fill in your Full Name, Email, Mobile Number, Date of Birth, Region and Exam level to get your listing. You may also opt to receive the notice of result of the exam.

If you have trouble accessing the portal, CSC Region VI has posted these spreedsheets:

• Professional level: http://bit.ly/2edBAn1
• SubProfessional level: http://bit.ly/2dJDjxu

Examinees are advised to have a print-out of their Notice of School Assignment using ONSA. If examinees cannot access the ONSA and/or still do not know their school assignment one week before examination day, they should coordinate and inquire directly with the CSC Regional/Field Office concerned.

Should you have any clarification, please visit or call the nearest CSC Field Office or you may call the Examination Services Division at (033) 321.1253.

Iloilo Examinees

Examinees in Iloilo will take the exam at 5 schools, namely: Iloilo National High School, Iloilo City National High School, Jaro National High School, Mandurriao National High School and West Visayas State University.

If you really want to have detailed directions, CSC Iloilo Field Office made maps of the schools and room assignments for easy location of the test takers on the exam day.


Also, take note of these reminders during the examination day:
Examinees should be at their assigned school early on examination day. Testing venues shall be open to examinees starting 6:00 a.m.
On the other hand, GATES OF TESTING VENUES SHALL BE CLOSED TO EXAMINEES AT 7:30 a.m. Examinees that arrive later than 7:30 a.m. shall NOT be admitted.

Examinees should bring the following items:
a. I.D. card – preferably the same I.D. card presented during filing of application, or any of the other accepted ID cards listed in Item D(3) above which must be valid i.e. not expired; Note: The NO I.D., NO EXAMINATION Rule is strictly implemented.
b. Original NSO Birth Certificate (if I.D. card has no date of birth);
c. Application Receipt with corresponding Official Receipt (if available);
d. Notice of School Assignment generated through ONSA (as applicable);
e. Dark Lead pencil/s and eraser/s; Ball Pen/s (Black or Blue); and
f. Clear bottled water, or preferred beverage (except alcoholic beverage) placed in clear/transparent container, and/or candies/biscuits, which shall be subject to inspection by the Room Examiner/Proctor.

I will also post updates on the CSE-PPT results once it is out approximately 41 days after the exam, according to Civil Service Commission. Keep it here by following my Facebook page Nonoynet.com.

UP High School Iloilo sets entrance exam for AY 2017- 2018

University of the Philippines in the Visayas (UPV) has announced that it will conduct entrance exams for UP High School Iloilo early December 2016 for Academic Year 2017-2018.

The dates of the admission tests for both senior and junior high school will be on:

• Junior High School: December 3, 2016
• Senior High School: December 4, 2016

Application forms are now available at the Principal’s Office, UP High School in Iloilo building, UP Visayas, Iloilo City Campus, or you may download it online below. Screening qualifications and documentary requirements can be found in the form:

• Junior High School Application Form (Grade 7)
• Senior High School Application Form (Grade 11)

You may reproduce/photocopy it and share with friends who also are interested to apply. Application and testing fee is at P170. The deadline for the submission of application forms is on November 25, 2016.




For further information, please contact the Principal’s Office at (033) 337-8517.

UP High School Iloilo is one of four UP-administered high schools that have shifted its academic calendar schedules to begin in August, in line with the goal of producing globally competitive students and having internationalized education standards.

PRC issues new CPD unit requirements for professionals

Unbeknownst to many, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) has already issued new guidelines regarding the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program including unit requirements for all registered and licensed professionals before renewal of licenses.

UPDATE: Full implementation of CPD requirement will be on first quarter of 2017.

PRC Resolution No. 2016-990, signed by chairman Teofilo S. Pilando, Jr. and commissioners Angeline T. Chua Chiaco and Yolana D. Reyes on June 28, 2016, introduces amendments to the revised guidelines and the procedures of implementation of CPD programs.

"The Commission finds the need to amend some provisions of the said guidelines in order to strengthen the implementation of the said guidelines," the Resolution stated.

The resolution is also in harmony with the recently passed Republic Act 10912 or the Continuing Professional Development Act of 2016 which states that CPD programs will be implemented in each of the regulated professions, and mandatory for the renewal of the Professional Identification Cards of all registered and licensed professionals under the regulation of the Professional Regulation Commission.

Sponsored by Senator Antonio Trillas III, the measure became a law last July 21, 2016.

Some of the amendments are as follows:

• Every Professional Regulatory Board (PRB) shall creat CPD Council composed of Chairperson and 2 members.
• CPD Council accredits Local CPD Providers (Individual/Sole Proprietor, Firm/Partnership/Corporation, or Government Institutions/Agencies) and Foreign CPD Providers.
• Registered and licensed professionals shall complete the required CPD units every three years.

CPD Unit Requirements

120 Credit Units: Accountancy

45 Credit Units: Aeronautical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Agriculture, Architecture, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Criminology, Customs Broker, Dentistry, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Environmental Planning, Fisheries, Forestry, Geodetic Engineering, Geology, Guidance and Counseling, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, Librarian, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Technology, Medicine, Metallurgical Engineering, Midwifery, Mining Engineering, Naval Architecture, Nursing, Nutrition and Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Professional Teachers, Psychology, Radiologic Technology, Real Estate Service, Respiratory Therapy, Sanitary Engineering, Social Work, Veterinary Medicine

30 Credit Units: Chemical Technician, Dental Technician, Dental Hygienist, Master Electrician, Electronics Technician, Master Plumbing, Certified Plant Mechanic, Medical Laboratory Technician, Metallurgical Plant Foreman, Mine/Mill/Quarry Foreman, Detailman, X-Ray Technician, Real Estate Sales Person

Here's the PRC Resolution in toto, including the matrix of CPD activities and the credit units for each participants involved:


Most professionals have negative reaction on this new requirement, for they see the measure as additional burden and expense out of their meager earnings.

How about those professionals working abroad, some are asking. Well, they may look for accredited Foreign CPD providers or take online programs whenever it becomes available.

The Resolution was published in major newspaper Philippine Star on July 21, 2016, and the date of effectivity started fifteen days after or on August 5, 2016.

Interestingly, PRC has updated their website with new layout and already included links for Continuing Professional Development, CPD Councils, Accredited Providers, Accredited Programs, etc. But those are still dead links, meaning, no data yet especially on the list of accredited CPD providers for each profession. I'll post it ever PRC make it available, so keep it here.

Your thoughts on this CPD unit requirements by PRC? Drop a comment below.

GSIS launches internet-based facility eGSISMO

Accessing your GSIS is now made even easier with the launching of Electronic GSIS Member Online (eGSISMO) facility.

The eGSISMO is a web-based facility that lets all active members of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) view their membership profile, service record, premium payments and statement of loan accounts in the internet.

With this new facility, you may now chech your GSIS records at the convenience of your home of office without the need to go to GSIS office.

Soon, eGSISMO will open other features for viewing such as tentative computation of retirement and social insurance benefits, dividend payments, claim and loan records and pensioners' data.

Registration

The registration for the eGSISMO is also online and is a breeze. Initially, active members should go to http://egsismo.gsis.gov.ph/, click the 'Sign Up' link and type in by their GSIS business partner (BP) number and date of birth.

BP numbers may be obtained from their office's agency authorized officer or electronic remittance file handler; any GSIS office; or GSIS Contact Center (847-4747).

The system is only accessible to members who are based in the Philippines. For inquiries on eGSISMO, members may visit the nearest GSIS office, call the GSIS Contact Center, or email gsiscares@gsis.gov.ph. (GSIS).



With eGSISMO, your just a click away from your records!

LOOK: SM Iloilo BPO Twin Tower

Take a look at the initial renderings of the much awaited SM City Iloilo BPO Twin Tower, which will rise along Diversion Road across the region's biggest mall!

Artist perspective of SM Iloilo BPO Twin Tower. Photo by SM Iloilo - BPO - NCBI.

SM Iloilo Twin Tower is an 18-floor information technology and business process outsourcing (BPO) building worth P1.7 billion that will house a call center, other offices, and parking spaces in Iloilo City.

In the initial plan, the lower ground floor will serve as terminal or drop off and pick up station for public transport and the 2nd to 5th floor as parking areas for the SM clients.

The BPO Twin Tower and other offices is from the 6th until the 18th floor.




Iloilo City Council has already endorsed the project as a requirement for the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) endorsement of a proposed economic zone for a Presidential Proclamation.

Dr. Candice Tupas, Committee on Trade, Commerce and Industry chairperson, said the investment project is a big boost to the city especially as it is now ranked as an important area for the BPO or call center industry.

Korean Film Festival 2016 opens at SM City Iloilo

Five blockbuster Korean films are now showing at SM City Iloilo Cinema 8 for free as the Korean Film Festival 2016 formally opened Thursday.

Themed "Strong Hearts", the movies feature characters with strong personalities; people who pursue their goals and desires with courage and determination. The movies are: Ode to My Father, Confession of Murder, How to Use Guys with Secret Tips, The Suspect, and Beauty Inside.

Organizers prepared cocktails catered by Esca's and Bonchon Chicken at the lobby of Cinema 8 before the opening ceremony and first screening of the movie Ode to My Father. The event was attended by distinguished guests which include members of Iloilo Korean community, executives of Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines, SM top executives, press and bloggers.

VIPs enjoy the cocktails at lobby of SM Cinema 8.

In a statement read by executive assistant Dominador Co, Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog said that "the 2016 Korean Film Festival 2016 will give Ilonggos and Korean an opportunity to come together and celebrate our respective cultures."

Executive assistant Dominador Co delivers the message of Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog.

"I am quite confident that the festival will further enhance the understanding of the diversity of Korean culture and provide a wider window and important platform in enhancing the cultural exchange and cooperation between South Korea and Iloilo City," Mabilog added.

Ilonggos and Korean mingle just before the start of the opening ceremony.

Mr. Gilber Domingo, SM City Iloilo mall manager, said that they are happy to share "critically-acclaimed samples of Korea's booming film industry."

"The blockbuster masterpieces to be shown in the next three days are perfect representations of Korea's passion for arts."

Here's the schedule for the screenings at Cinema 8:
September 22, Thursday
7:00PM - Ode to My Father

September 23, Friday
12:00PM - Confession of Murder
3:00PM - How to Use Guys with Secret Tips
6:00PM - The Suspect




September 24, Saturday
12:00PM - The Suspect
3:00PM - Beauty Inside
6:00PM - Ode to My Father

September 25, Sunday
12:00PM - How to Use Guys with Secret Tips
3:00PM - Confession of Murder
6:00PM - Beauty Inside



If you love Korean drama films, go for Ode to My Father, as it depicts modern Korean history from the 1950s to the present day. The movie tells the life of an ordinary man, as he experienced events such as the Hungnam evacuation of 1950 during the Korean War, the government’s decision to dispatch nurses and miners to Germany in the 1960s, and the Vietnam War.

Thanks SM City Iloilo for inviting me!

Those who want a light, feel-good movies should line up for How to Use Guys with Secret Tips, a wacky and charming tale of an overworked woman’s attempt to improve her relationship with men. Beauty Inside is also a good choice; it is about a furniture designer who wakes up in a different body everyday, regardless of age, gender, and nationality and how he could reunite with his special someone.

Crime and action film lovers may opt for Confession of Murder, which is about a man who confesses murders he committed by publishing a book and a detective who is searching for the author of the book; and The Suspect, which is about a North Korean agent who tries to uncover the volatile secrets hidden inside the eyeglasses of a dead man after he’s betrayed and has escaped.

Of course, you can watch all 5 films as admission is free.


Korean Film Festival 2016 is a joint partnership between the Korean Embassy’s Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines and SM Cinema. Other partners include the Korean Film Council (KOFIC), the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Film Cultural Exchange Program, the Korea Tourism Organization – Manila (KTO), and the Korea Copyright Commission.

F&E Autostore opens biggest service facility in Bacolod

The biggest and most advanced automotive store and service complex in Visayas and Palawan is now open as F&E Family of Stores lifts the roll-ups for the public opening of F&E Bacolod-Singcang Goodyear Autocare on September 17, 2016.

We went all the way to Bacolod to attend the media launching and grand opening party graced by Brazilian actor and model Daniel Matsunaga.

“This is our big gift to the Negrense motoring community after 23 strong years of patronage and trust they gave the F&E brand of service.” said Emmanuel S. Aguillon, Senior Vice President and Chief Finance Officer of F&E Group, the parent company of F&E Family of Stores (Automotive).

From the original 11 service bays, F&E Bacolod-Singcang has expanded to 33 service bays so that it can service more car owners which may avail of basic car services such as Wheel Alignment, Wheel Balancing, Tire mounting, Tire Rotation, Vulcanizing, Oil Change, Suspension and Transmission, Brake System, Engine Repaint, Tune-up, Clutch System, Steering System, Under chassis Repair, Cooling System, Belts, Air-conditioning, Electrical System, and Basic or Comprehensive Preventive Maintenance Services. Servicing is now further extended to Medium and Heavy Duty Trucks.

F&E Bacolod-Singcang Goodyear Autocare is also the Spare Parts and Service partner of Hino Trucks in Negros.

Vehicle owners in Bacolod and motorists visiting Bacolod can now avail of automotive service every day (Monday to Sunday) even on weekends when they are usually free from work schedule.

Recently, F&E added the Sunshine brand to its portfolio, making the company home to a nationwide distribution of world class brand of Automotive Service Equipment such as wheel aligner, wheel balancer, tire changer and lifter. This development leveraged the modernization of all 8 branded service centers operated by F&E in Panay, Negros and Palawan (Goodyear Autocares, Valvoline Service Centers and a Bridgestone Service Center).

Leading the battery of innovative technology available at the new F&E Bacolod-Singcang Goodyear Autocare is Sunshine 3D 360 Degrees Wheel Aligner. This compact and portable digital alignment system can move from one service bay to another and point at any direction with auto adjust laser bar resulting to improved precision – making sure your wheels are at the right angle and your tires get even tread wear and optimum mileage. (Also available at F&E Iloilo-Buen Viaje.)

The new All Brand Car Scanner is now available and can get modern vehicle diagnosis at the fingertips. This technology, usually offered at brand specific franchise car dealers is now available at F&E for all brands of modern cars, pick-up trucks and SUVs. Motorists get the peace of mind knowing the vehicle is running in good shape and adjustments are made before things get worse. (Also available at branches in Panay.)

To make F&E a truly one-stop-shop for automotive care, the following services now join the portfolio: Brake Lathe, Repainting, Collision Repair and Car Wash.

F&E Bacolod also has a Motoring Family Lounge and Café, where parents, friends and even kids can choose from a variety of corners to stretch out, play, grab a snack or a full meal. It has a full cafe, play nook for children and even a comfy massage chair for waiting customers.

“At F&E, the joyful journey and safety of the family is at the center of everything that we do. We work passionately to deliver value that connects generations to their dreams and to champion every journey," Filamie S. Aguillon, CEO and General Manager of F&E Group said during the press briefing.

F&E Bacolod-Singcang Goodyear Autocare opens at 8:00 am until 5:00 pm, Monday to Sunday. For information, please call +63 34 433 1163 or 433 1181, Telefax +63 34 707 2725 or 708 8371.