Adaptive re-use of the Yusay Mansion for SM Molo

When word was finally out that the Yusay/Consing Mansion property was bought by the SM Group (specifically its Hypermarket division), many Ilonggos feared for that the stunning mansion would soon just exist in photos.

Yusay Mansion photo by Bob Hammerslag

But this development across Molo Plaza will usher in what is currently being done in most parts of Iloilo's Calle Real (and some heritage places in the Philippines like Vigan and Intramuros in Manila). Based on a post Skyscrapercity Iloilo forum, last year SM Group hired Archt. Augusto Villalon and in partnership with tropiks design studio, they came up of ways of conserving the Yusay Mansion despite the development of the retail giant within the lot.

Officially announcing its plan to preserve the mansion this August

The approach is an Adaptive Re-Use as a Retail/ Museum for Kultura wherein Iloilo local products will be showcased. Retail shops will surround the old house and the big front lawn will be a continuation of the Molo Park in front.

As a footnote, the plan above is still not final as there could still be some changes to this. But the good news is heritage conservation is now part of the development even for retail giants like SM. And as heritage is big and is now part of the consciousness of the Ilonggos, preserving the past while making some big present development is way to go for a brighter future for the Ilonggos.

Connie Carillo Diversified Farm in Bingawan: Helping Sustaining a Healthy Community Through Farm Schools

The area around the town of Bingawan, the edge of the central portion of the province is where it ends and the town of Tapaz, Capiz province begins and is very much another unsung corner of Iloilo with warm, friendly, welcoming people. Bingawan has some rich farming land and farming is at the heart of its village life. The landscapes are gorgeous here; with gentle pastures, to the high mountains. The area offers some beautiful hikes and bike trails across its lovely rolling meadows, woodland and a few working farms. The town would be less touristic than its neighboring towns but is well worth exploring. If you are concerned about how organic can contribute to benefit our shared environment, promote fair relationships and a good quality of life for all involved, then a trip to Connie Carillo Diversified Farm is for you. With the governments’ efforts to improve the knowledge and technical skills of the farmers, the Connie Carillo Diversified Fa

Cebu Pacific Improves Travel Fund, Voucher Policies

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading airline, makes significant improvements in its customer policies by offering non-expiring travel fund and extending the validity of travel voucher to provide passengers with better travel experience. Effective August 1, 2023, CEB rolled out the following changes: 1. NO EXPIRATION OF TRAVEL FUNDS . Previously, travel funds were valid for six (6) months from the date of conversion. However, under the new policy, travel funds will no longer have an expiration date. Passengers can now use their travel funds as a virtual wallet to pay for new bookings or add-ons in the future without any time constraints. In addition, those with a MyCebuPacific account can use their non-expiring travel funds not only for themselves but also for booking flights on behalf of their family members or friends, adding an element of convenience and support for their loved ones' travel arrangements. 2. LONGER TRAVEL

Building a Healthier Future Together: LG PH Donates to West Visayas State University Medical Center

LG Philippines affirms its commitment to build a better community with its recent CSR initiative in Iloilo. The activity was spearheaded by LG, together with Mark Vincent Fabresis from ML Laundry Equipment and Supply and BigWash. 2 sets of Giant C Max and 2 sets of Titan C Max washers and dryers were donated to West Visayas State University Medical Center (WVSU-MC) in Region VI, modernizing their laundry facilities. The turnover event, held on July 20, 2023, was attended by representatives from WVSU-MC, LG, and BigWash, highlighting the collective effort to enhance healthcare services in the region. L-R: Mr. Paul Rizzel Ledesma - Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Julio H. Lacao Jr.- Head of Linen Section, West Visayas State University Medical Center, Dr. Dave Endel R. Gelito III - Medical Chief II, West Visayas State University Medical Center, Dr. Celina C. Gelada - Vice President for Medical and Allied Services, West Visayas State University Medical Center, Mr. Philip Lee - Big Wash Director

ILOILO: HEART of the PHILIPPINES

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