Pimentel emphasized that this initiative helps ease the financial burden on Filipinos needing medical treatment.

“Every peso saved on medicine means more food on the table, more money for education, and a better quality of life for our citizens,” he added, urging the government to expand VAT exemptions to cover more essential medicines.

The newly VAT-exempt drugs include treatments for high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, and mental health conditions. These additions, such as rosuvastatin for cholesterol, sitagliptin + metformin for diabetes, and sertraline and quetiapine for mental health, join existing exemptions for cancer, tuberculosis, and kidney disease medications.

Pimentel, who voted for the bill’s approval in September 2024, welcomed the signing of the CREATE MORE Law in November, which strengthened tax incentives and lowered medicine prices.

“Yung VAT exemption ng mga psychiatric meds–maraming hindi nakakaalam. Ako po ang nag-push niyan noong BICAM kaya na-exempt ‘yan. Kaya we are in full support sa pag-focus natin sa how to alleviate the burden for families with children or relatives with mental health problems or conditions,” the senator said during the Marikina Candidate Forum on February 9, 2025.

As a strong advocate for affordable healthcare, Pimentel stressed the importance of properly implementing the VAT exemption to directly benefit consumers. “Having a law is not enough–we must guarantee that its impact is felt by the people. Medicine should be accessible and affordable for all,” he said.IMT

The post Pimentel hails VAT-Free drugs, urges broader coverage first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

Property giant Megaworld is further ramping up its office portfolio by investing P30-billion in the next five years to build new office buildings, as well as reinvent, reinvigorate, and reimagine its existing office developments in its various townships across the Philippines.

These new office developments will soon rise within Megaworld townships in Bulacan, Pampanga, Bacolod, Iloilo, Cebu, Davao, Metro Manila, and other new growth areas where Megaworld townships will be built. All these office developments will be LEED-registered and certified, and packed with sustainability features and several new amenities.

“We are optimistic about the office sector in the Philippines, particularly as more international companies continue to come in, either to establish their presence or expand their operations here. We see a significant spike in demand for office spaces, not just among BPO companies, but even from traditional tenants as well,” says Kevin L. Tan, president and CEO, Alliance Global Group, the parent company of Megaworld.

Just this year, Megaworld opened office towers in its provincial townships covering around 60,000 square meters of gross leasable area (GLA). These include Enterprise One in Iloilo Business Park, No. 1 Upper East in The Upper East Bacolod, and Pasudeco Tower in Capital Town Pampanga.

Within the year, the company is opening another 50,000 square meters of office inventory, particularly in Bacolod, Iloilo, and Cebu.

“The new office towers will highlight our continuing thrust towards embracing sustainability. We have been putting greater emphasis on this aspect of our business. This is part of our commitment to become more mindful about how we can help protect and preserve the environment together with our tenant partners,” says Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, president, Megaworld.

In 2024, Megaworld announced that it aims to have 2,000,000 square meters of gross leasable office space by 2030. Currently, the company has about 1.6 million square meters of leasable office space in its portfolio, making it the biggest office developer and lessor in the Philippines.

Megaworld has maintained its leadership status in the office market in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) with close to 900,000 square meters of office space in the entire district alone.

The post Megaworld to invest P30B to boost office portfolio first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

In a recent briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized the government’s commitment to bringing internet infrastructure to remote areas.

“Of course, hindi ganoon kadali ito lalo na sinabi mo nga liblib na lugar so kinakailangan talaga dito ng imprastraktura. Nabanggit din po na tayo ay maaaring makipag-ugnayan/makipag-collaborate sa mga pribadong korporasyon para po maisakatuparan ito,” said Castro.

She cited the importance of reliable internet to improve people’s lives. 

“Nowadays, using the internet is not just a luxury – it’s a necessity. If we can improve the access of all the Filipino people to internet, it will definitely improve the livelihood—not only the livelihood, even the intellectual capacity of every Filipino,” according to her.IMT

The post Gov’t seeks private sector ties to improve Internet service first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss, especially as we age. This condition occurs when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, affecting daily activities and making it difficult to see clearly. Symptoms of cataract include blurry vision, sensitivity to light or glare, faded colors, and double vision. Cataracts typically develop due to the eye’s natural aging process, especially for individuals aged 60 and above. This gradual progression often goes unnoticed for months or even years, eventually leading to impaired vision.

While aging is a primary cause, cataracts can also result from eye injuries, extreme heat, severe inflammation, or metabolic diseases such as diabetes. Borough Lasik Center offers advanced cataract treatment with Z Laser Lens Replacement, providing a safer, more precise, and bladeless solution for individuals with cataracts or severe refractive errors.

“Cataracts are a natural part of aging, but that does not mean it’s the end of your vision,” says Dr. Ches Heredia, CEO and Refractive Surgeon of Borough Lasik Center. “Many don’t realize they have cataracts until their daily life is affected. The good news is that with advanced technology in eye care, cataract treatment is safer and more effective”, he added.

Laser vs Conventional Surgery: Which is Right for You?

Cataracts and severe refractive errors can make everyday tasks like reading, driving, and recognizing faces challenging. While glasses and contact lenses offer temporary help, they don’t address the underlying issue.

Undergoing cataract surgery restores clear vision by replacing a cloudy or dysfunctional lens with a premium intraocular lens (IOL) tailored to each patient. Conventional cataract surgery involves using a manual blade to create an incision and open the lens capsule, an effective method but dependent on the surgeon’s hand. On the other hand, Z Laser Lens Replacement is a laser-assisted procedure that offers greater precision, less discomfort and faster recovery compared to conventional cataract surgery.

This procedure is ideal for individuals who:

▪️Struggle with cataracts that affect daily activities
▪️Experience double vision that glasses cannot fully correct
▪️Want to reduce or eliminate dependence on prescription eyewear

With advanced laser technology, this procedure ensures sharper and enhanced visual outcomes with a more comfortable recovery.

Revolutionizing Eye Care with Z Laser Lens Replacement — The FIRST & ONLY in Visayas

As the first and only provider of Z Laser Lens Replacement (Femto Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery) in Visayas, BLC sets a new standard in cataract surgery and lens implants with the latest Swiss technology, Ziemer FEMTO LDV Z8. This state-of-the-art technology enables bladeless procedures like Z Laser Lens Replacement to start a new era of cataract care.

With unmatched accuracy and faster recovery, this procedure allows individuals with cataracts to regain clear eyesight without relying on progressive lenses. By utilizing this advanced laser technology, patients will experience improved clarity and long-term results.

According to Mr. Karlo Sanchez, General Manager at Borough Lasik Center, the launch of Z Laser Lens Replacement marks a major step forward in expanding advanced eye care nationwide. “By introducing this cutting-edge laser technology to Visayas and soon to Mindanao, BLC is making premium eye care more accessible to Hiligaynons and other regions. This procedure ensures a more precise and safer way to restore vision for individuals with cataracts or high prescriptions, offering faster recovery and long-lasting results. It is our commitment to bring advanced eye care closer to all Filipinos and continue transforming lives through clearer vision.

The Game-Changing Benefit of Z Laser Lens Replacement

Imagine waking up every day with sharp vision—no more searching for progressive lenses. Z Laser Lens Replacement not only restores clarity but also brings a renewed sense of confidence and freedom. You will be able to see as if you were young again, fulfill daily tasks with ease and enjoy your everyday life.

Borough Lasik Center remains committed to delivering innovative and effective vision correction solutions. With world-class surgeons, advanced technology, and personalized patient care, BLC continues to transform lives through clearer vision.

“We are very proud of what we do here in BLC”, says Dr. Heredia. “From our first cataract patient here in the clinic, the surgery was a breeze, removing hard cataracts has never been easier with the use of the best technology like the Z8. We also performed the Phaco procedure and implanted Multifocal Intraocular Lens (IOL), giving the patient the freedom to see clearly at near, immediate, and far distances. As the first and only clinic in Western Visayas to offer Z Laser Lens Replacement, we invite you to join us. Give us a call, and we will see you here in the clinic.”

To learn more about the BLC’s services, follow their official social media accounts, where you can also connect with their specialists for more information:

▪️Borough Lasik Center Visayas (Facebook)
▪️@blc.visayas (Instagram)
▪️ @docchesheredia (TikTok)

The post Bringing the future of cataract surgery to Western Visayas with Z Laser Lens Replacement! first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

PA Energy is empowering Filipinos to take control of their electricity bills with fixed-rate lease agreements spanning 2, 5, and 10 years. These plans cater to a wide range of energy needs, from small residential setups as low as 3kW (approximately 6 solar panels) to large-scale commercial installations reaching up to 1.1MW (an impressive 1,566 panels). Best of all, these plans require no downpayment and are collateral-free, making the transition to solar power even more seamless.

This innovative approach has already seen significant success across the region. Notably, PA Energy recently installed a 97.5kW rooftop solar facility for the Medicus Cancer Institute. This 10-year lease agreement exemplifies PA Energy’s lease-to-own model. After the 10-year period, the entire solar facility will be turned over to Medicus Cancer Institute completely free of charge, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of clean, self-generated electricity for years to come. PA Energy has also illuminated the Hua Siong College of Iloilo’s Ledesco and City Proper campuses under similar agreements, demonstrating their commitment to supporting educational institutions in their sustainability efforts and long-term asset ownership.

But the benefits aren’t exclusive to large consumers. PA Energy is making solar power a reality for everyday Filipinos through an accessible lease-to-own structure. For an incredibly affordable monthly payment of just Php 2,678.96 over a 10-year period, homeowners can avail of a 3kW solar system. This system is estimated to generate between 3,500 to 3,800 pesos worth of electricity per month, depending on weather conditions, potentially leading to immediate savings on their electricity bills. Importantly, at the end of the 10-year lease, the homeowner will own the entire solar system. The application process is designed to be straightforward, with simple requirements ensuring that more Filipinos can easily access this sustainable energy solution and ultimately own their power generation.

The 10-year lease package comes with added peace of mind, including free yearly maintenance to ensure optimal performance and acts of God insurance, protecting investments from unforeseen events during the lease period. Furthermore, the high-quality solar panels come with a robust performance warranty guaranteeing their functionality for 30 years, ensuring that even after the lease period, the owned system will continue to deliver significant value.

Staying ahead of the curve, PA Energy has also launched innovative hybrid battery plans. These systems not only allow users to harness solar energy during the day but also store excess power for use at night, providing continuous savings and crucial backup power during outages, with the same lease-to-own principle applying.

PA Energy prides itself on using only Tier 1 panels, recognized as the best quality in the market. They have recently transitioned to N-type panels, which offer superior efficiency and a slower rate of degradation compared to traditional P-type panels, ensuring customers get the most out of their solar investment for decades to come, both during and after the lease.

The company’s commitment to large-scale projects is evident in their recent accomplishment: the construction of a massive 1.1MW solar rooftop for SM Imus Cavite on behalf of Lykos Co. This project is a testament to PA Energy’s capabilities and their role in driving the adoption of renewable energy across various sectors. Lykos Co. is a joint venture between PA Energy, Mltvrs Ventures, and Dayone Capital Ventures Inc.

By offering accessible financing with no downpayment, no collateral, and simple requirements, coupled with a clear lease-to-own structure and high-quality solar solutions, PA Energy is not just providing electricity; they are empowering communities to become energy independent, reducing the burden of high energy costs, and paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future for the Philippines. For Ilonggos and Filipinos nationwide, the dream of affordable and clean energy, with the added benefit of eventual ownership, is now within reach, thanks to the innovative spirit and commitment of companies like PA Energy.

IMT is a proud subscriber of PA Energy and uses clean energy for it’s operations. Give promocode IMTxPAENERGY to avail of discounts when inquiring from PA Energy.

The post PA Energy Brightens Futures, Breaks Barriers with Affordable Solar Rooftop Plans: Offering a Clear Path to Ownership first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

The province of Iloilo saw an inflation — the rate of increase in the prices of goods and services — of 4.5 percent in February, lower compared to Janaury’s 5.4 percent.

In Iloilo City, inflation also decelerated to 3.7 percent in February from 5.1 percent in January.

But when compared to same month in 2024, inflation in the province and the city accelerated from 2.1 percent and from 0.4 percent, respectively.

The province’s inflation in February this year was the highest in the region and the city came in second.

Bacolod City occupied the third spot with 3.3 percent, followed by Capiz (2.7 percent), Aklan (1.4 percent), Guimaras (0.6 percent) and Antique (0 percent).

Overall, the region posted an inflation of 2.7 percent in February, lower compared to 3.6 percent in January.

Miguel Gallego I, PSA-6 Statistical Specialist II, attributed the decrease to slower price increases in Food and Non-alcoholic Beverages, which saw inflation drop from 3.4 percent to 2.4 percent.

Other contributing factors were Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas, and Other Fuels (from 3.6 percent to 2.9 percent) and Restaurants and Accommodation Services (from 6 percent to 3.9 percent).

“Of the 13 major commodity groups, seven groups recorded lower or slower inflation rates in February 2025,” Gallego noted.

Inflation is computed based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures the average price of the standard basket of goods and services consumed by a household: food products, electricity, gas, and clothing.IMT

The post Iloilo posts slower inflation in February first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

This positive shift is primarily attributed to lower generation and transmission charges, a testament to MORE Power’s commitment to providing affordable and reliable electricity to its consumers.

A key factor in achieving this decrease is MORE Power’s strategic approach to energy procurement. 

The company has maximized its energy purchases from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), which now accounts for 57.5 percent of its generation mix. This strategy allows MORE Power to secure electricity at more competitive rates, ultimately benefiting consumers.

The lower rates this month will translate into tangible savings for households across Iloilo City. 

Consumers with an average monthly consumption of 200 per kWh can expect to save approximately P156 from their electricity bills.

“We are committed to providing our customers with the most affordable and reliable electricity possible,” MORE Power said in a social media post. 

“This rate reduction is a direct result of our strategic procurement practices and our commitment to delivering value to our consumers,” it added.

The post MORE Power slashes power rates for March first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

According to the provincial government, this development is expected to spur development projects and programs, financial grants, and other forms of assistance for Guimaras as well as adjustment of compensation for local government personnel.

From a fourth class province, Guimaras has attained a remarkable rise in the annual regular income for fiscal years 2021, 2022, and 2023.

The Department of Finance (DOF) classifies second class provinces as those which earned an average annual regular income of P900,000,000.00 or more, but less than P1,500,000,000.00.

Meanwhile, the income classification of the five municipalities in the province was also upgraded, with the town of Buenavista attaining first-class status.

The municipalities of Jordan and Nueva Valencia moved up from third-class to second-class category.

The municipality of San Lorenzo also advanced to third class category from fifth class municipality, and the municipality of Sibunag from fourth class to third-class category.AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo

The post Guimaras province attains second-class-income status first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

“The goal is to encourage developers to integrate local architectural aesthetics, ensuring that modernization goes hand-in-hand with cultural preservation and development,” said Councilor Rex Marcus Sarabia, the ordinances’ principal author.

Under Section 6, buildings must reflect Ilonggo cultural aesthetics or harmonize with heritage zone architecture to qualify for incentives.

The incentives apply to new commercial or mixed-commercial structures but exclude land taxes and already-incentivized heritage buildings under previous ordinances.

“Exterior aesthetics of buildings covered by the ordinance must be certified by the Iloilo City Cultural Heritage Conservation Council to be compliant with the parameters and criteria as stated in this ordinance,” part of the local legislation said.

Developments with an assessed value of P3 million to P15 million may avail of 10 percent incentives during the first and second year and 5 percent from the third to fifth year.

For those with a value of P15 million to P100 million, the tax incentive will be 15 percent in the first year, 10 percent in the second and third years, and 5 percent in the fourth and fifth years.

The incentive for buildings with an assessed value of P100 million and above includes 20 percent in the first year, 15 percent for the second year, 10 percent in the third year, and 5 percent in the fourth to fifth year.

After five years, buildings can re-apply for incentives if they remain compliant.

Applications are available at the Office of the Building Official, with the Iloilo City Cultural Heritage Conservation Council certifying compliance.

The ordinance, approved on Wednesday, takes effect 15 days after publication and posting in three public locations within Iloilo City.Perla Lena/PNA

The post City gov’t offers tax incentives for heritage-inspired buildings first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

See the World, Lead the Future

Women are at the forefront of industries, innovation, and social change. From leading businesses and medical breakthroughs to nurturing families and advocating for progress, they play a vital role in shaping the world. However, daily struggles with glasses and contact lenses can slow them down.

“For years, I have been bothered with my sight. It has been a hindrance to me, especially at work,” shares Ms. Norchel Vince Tingson, a Nurse at Borough Lasik Center and a LASIK patient. “When I got the opportunity to get LASIK, I undoubtedly grabbed it. LASIK instantly changed my life.”

Borough Lasik Center provides a lasting solution through transformative procedures like LASIK and CLEAR (Corneal Lenticule Extraction for Advanced Refraction). These advanced laser treatments correct refractive errors with precision, offering freedom from glasses and contact lenses. While LASIK reshapes the cornea to improve focus, CLEAR removes a small lenticule with a minimally invasive approach to achieve the same result. By restoring clear vision, BLC ensures that women can focus on what truly matters—whether it’s excelling at work, traveling with ease, or simply enjoying an active lifestyle.

With the latest in laser technology and a team of expert surgeons, BLC delivers world-class vision correction customized to every woman’s needs. A single procedure can enhance productivity, boost self-confidence, and improve overall quality of life.

Celebrate Women’s Month with the Gift of Clear Vision

In celebration of Women’s Month, BLC is offering special discounts on its vision correction treatments, making it easier for women to invest in themselves. Whether advancing in their careers, pursuing new opportunities or simply living without the inconvenience of glasses, these exclusive offers provide the opportunity to embrace life with clarity.

“Clear sight isn’t just about seeing, it’s about enabling women to thrive, achieve their goals, and take care of themselves and their loved ones without limitations. With the right eye care, they can focus on what truly matters—seeing life with clarity, comfort, and confidence,” says Dr. Tiffany Martinez, Optometrist at Borough Lasik Center Visayas.

Clear Vision, Bold Moves

From CEOs and entrepreneurs to healthcare workers and all professions, women lead fast-paced lives where every second counts. Navigating presentations, reading fine print, or performing intricate tasks, all demand clear vision. With sharper eyesight, women can move forward with greater precision, efficiency, and confidence.

“I love that I can wake up every day without having to look for my glasses,” Ms. Tingson adds. “I love that I no longer need to wear contact lenses on parties or occasions. And most of all, I enjoy the feeling of not having to worry about my vision. If you have been thinking of undergoing LASIK, I would highly recommend it. My only regret is I wish I would have done it sooner!”

Borough Lasik Center remains committed to providing high-quality eye care that supports women in achieving their full potential. By making vision correction more accessible, BLC empowers women to embrace opportunities, push boundaries, and take charge of their future.

Now is the time to invest in yourself. This Women’s Month, take the step toward clear vision and a limitless future!

To know more about the BLC’s services, follow their official social media accounts, where you can also connect with their specialists for more information:

● Borough Lasik Center Visayas (Facebook)
● @blc.visayas (Instagram)
● @docchesheredia (TikTok)

The post Borough Lasik Center celebrates International Women’s Month first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.