This Week in Cebu (June 12 to 18, 2016)

The increase in rainfall comes as the Department of Interior and Local Government calls on local government units (LGUs) to prepare for the rainy season. The LGUs were encouraged to implement disaster preparedness measures amid the declaration of the start of the rainy season by the state weather bureau PAGASA.

The continuing repair of the first Mandaue-Mactan bridge makes it necessary for passengers headed to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport to leave earlier than usual to avoid missing their flights. The repair of the bridge is expected to be completed by August 29, 2016, which is ahead of its target completion date of December 23, 2016.

Traffic within the city is also expected to be heavy with the opening of classes for all public schools and some private schools on June 13. Other private schools were given permission by the Department of Education (DepEd) to open not later than the last day of August 2016.

MyBus announced an extended route in cooperation with the Mandaue City government to cater to Mandaue City residents. The new route starts at SM City Cebu up to the Mandaue City Hall with stops at University of Cebu Medical Center, Chong Hua Hospital Mandaue & Cancer Center, Parkmall, J Centre Mall, Shell station along A. Del Rosario Avenue, Big Hotel and the North Bus Terminal. Bus schedule is from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM with a 20-minute interval in between buses. Fare is PhP25 for regular passengers and PhP20 for students, senior citizens, and persons with disability.

On June 12, 2016, the Philippines will celebrate its 118th Independence Day. This national holiday commemorates the day when the Act of Declaration of Independence was read out by General Emilio Aguinaldo in Kawit, Cavite. Independence Day was previously celebrated on July 4 prior to Proclamation No. 28, s. 1962 of President Disodado Macapagal that set the date on June 12. Republic Act No. 4166 of 1964 formally designated June 12 of every year as the official date for celebrating Philippine Independence.

In Cebu, SM Malls will conduct a flag-raising ceremony on June 12 to celebrate the Philippine Independence Day. This flag-raising ceremony for Independence Day is an annual practice of SM Malls nationwide. In Cebu, several private and government organizations and local celebrities grace this event. Those who will go to SM Malls on June 12 can also look forward to discounts on selected items and Pinoy-themed entertainment shows in honor of the occasion.

On June 18, 2016, the TOYOfest Philippines will hold a gathering of Toyota enthusiasts at the Sugbo parking ground in the South Road Properties in Cebu City. The first Toyofest held outside of Metro Manila, the event aims to bring together Toyota automotive enthusiasts around the country. It will also feature the 2nd leg of the Cebu Autocross Championship. Entrance fee to the event is at PhP1,000, which includes a TOYOfest t-shirt, cap, stickers, and freebies from the sponsors. The event is scheduled to start at 9:00 AM.