ILOILO CITY, Iloilo, Philippines — The city government of Iloilo has launched a campaign to be included as one of the seven wonder cities of the world. Iloilo is one of 17 Philippine cities from more than 1,000 cities in 220 countries nominated for the first phase of New7Wonders Cities. “We’re honored to be in the list,” said Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog who only knew of the nomination by reading the Manila Bulletin. The qualification phase will be from March 7 to November 23. Mabilog urged Ilonggos around the world to start voting online for the inclusion of Iloilo in the qualification phase. (Tara Yap)

Triathlon Mecca

CEBU CITY (PNA) — Cebu has the best potential to become the “mecca” of triathlon, a businessman and triathlete said. Chris Aldeguer, Vellum chief executive officer and president, said he has this in mind when Cebu hosts the Cobra Ironman 70.3 Philippines on August 5 at the Shangri-La’s Mactan Island Resort and Spa in Lapu-Lapu City in Mactan, Cebu. ”Wherever the Ironman is held, the city automatically becomes the capital of triathlon. Ironman is like organizing 100 local triathlon races,” Aldeguer said. The Cobra Ironman 70.3, held in Camarines Sur in previous years, is considered the biggest and most prestigious triathlon event in the country.

Fashion Designers

KALIBO, Aklan (PNA) — Several Filipino fashion designers were cited by the British Fashion Council (BFC) during the International Fashion Week that took place recently. The event was part of the Fashion 2012 program celebrating the Year of the Olympics and the Paralympics and to honor the values of international respect, excellence, equality and friendship. Lesley Mobo, who hails from Aklan and is now a noted fashion designer in London, said the Filipino couturiers who participated in International Fashion Week were Mitch Dulce (hats), Aren Pe (owner of Sole Service, shoes); and Jerome Lorico (fashion designer, knitwear).

Bike Run

DUMAGUETE CITY (PNA) — Big bikers from all over the country were expected to converge Saturday in Negros Oriental for a cause. Initiated by Rep. Pryde Henry Teves of the 3rd district of Negros Oriental, president of the OGBU bikers in Negros Oriental, the big bikers were to donate school supplies, toys, slippers and the like to public school children in selected schools in his district. Dumaguete Councilor Dan Leon, a member of the host big bikers club, said around 150 big bikers from the Visayas and Mindanao have been invited to join the “Ride for the Children” which started from Dumaguete.

Crackdown

ILOILO CITY (PNA) — The Iloilo City government will continuing its crackdown on vandals using spray paint. Last Friday, after barangay officials caught red-handed three minors vandalizing the walls at Barangay Ortiz, City Proper. Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog advised the minors, who were brought to his office, to refrain from repeating the offense reminding them they would be arrested next time. The minors were made to erase their graffiti. The City Hall also reminded stores in the metropolis about the regulation on the sale of aerosol spray paints to minors. All establishments selling aerosol spray paints must register and keep a record of sales, including name of customer, address, date of purchase, color of aerosol paint and purpose of purchase.