CAVITEX connector roads’ on-time completion gets fresh momentum from Presidential support

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The on-time completion of the two connector roads of the Cavitex Expressway (CAVITEX) has recently acquired fresh momentum, inspired by the expression of support by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., when he led the groundbreaking and inauguration of the three CAVITEX links or connector roads in different locations in one day.

“The Presidential declaration of support for these major infrastructure projects has energized us all in completing the projects on time, leaving no stone unturned to finish the job,” thus declared Raul L. Ignacio, president of the CAVITEX Infrastructure Corporation,” a subsidiary of the larger Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) of the MVP Group.

‘Final step to enhance transport infra. In his speech, President Marcos called the actions taken only last week as “the final step in completing the CAVITEX C5 Link Expressway, enhancing our transportation infrastructure network on behalf of countless motorists and passengers.” And “the [CAVITEX]-CALAX Link, originating from Kawit, Cavite, is a 1.2-kilometer connection whose length may be short, but its impact will be substantial. By establishing a direct connection to CALAX, we also ease the traffic congestion at the busy intersection of Tirona Highway and Centennial Road.” With this, we anticipate a significant improvement in the road network connectivity from Kawit to the greater CALABARZON region.

President Marcos and his transport-related Cabinet members were joined by Manuel V. Pangilinan, MPTC Chairman, Mr. Rogelio Singson, President and CEO of Metro Pacific Tollways, and Mr. Raul L. Ignacio, President and General Manager of Cavitex Infrastructure Corporation.

Two contractors: Beat the deadline. DMCI, under a P3.3 billion contract has committed to meet the construction deadline to finish Segment 3B, the final portion of the CAVITEX C5 Link, a six (6) lane 2.0 km expressway connecting CAVITEX at Paranaque in the West and C5 Road Taguig in the East. This segment will enable motorists to travel from Cavite to Taguig City, bypassing a number of service roads.

EEI will be completing the 1.3-km. dual 2-lane CAVITEX-CALAX Link Extension also in August 2025, envisioned to stimulate commerce and industry in Cavite, Laguna and Metro Manila.

“The Presidential imprimatur has resonated as the President’s marching orders for our CIC project managers and our two contractors to speed up the construction so that the two segments will be ready for full operations on August 2025,” Ignacio pointed out.

Right-of-way acquisition. For both construction projects, Ignacio earlier met his right-of-way (ROW) acquisition team in order to resolve all issues to ultimately clear the way for the road alignments and access roads. Progress has been made in CIC’s mix of persuasive initiatives addressed to project affected persons (PAPs) made up of legal, financial and communication strategies, Ignacio added.

At press time, the ROW status of Segment 3B of the C5 Link stands at 70.60 percent, leaving the CIC ROW project managers only 29.4 percent balance to finish the job, Ignacio added. On the other hand, the progress of the CAVITEX-CALAX Link ROW acquisition is ahead with 77.14 percent, leaving CIC only 22.86 percent to clear the way for this alignment.

“With this new impetus from the Palace, we will beat our construction deadline – and the winner is every motorist and passenger south of Metro Manila and beyond,” Ignacio said.

Viola Natividad Inspires Listeners to Embrace Hope and Purpose with New Single, “Dahil Sa ‘Yo”

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Singer-songwriter Viola Natividad offers a message of hope and redemption with the release of her new single, Dahil Sa ‘Yo—out now on all digital streaming platforms worldwide.

In Dahil Sa ‘Yo, the Christian contemporary artist speaks transparently about her personal relationship with God and takes the listeners on a journey of healing, embracing hope, and rising from the rubble. It’s the newest anthem to finding one’s meaning and purpose.

“I wrote the song ‘Dahil Sa ‘Yo’ reflecting on the kindness and faithfulness of God in my life. It's about how He transformed my shameful past into a life filled with hope and purpose,” Viola revealed. “When I look back on my previous feelings of failure and shame, I am reminded of how God turned things around, redeeming me from those dark and painful moments.”

Arranged by Stephen Tan, mixed and mastered by Jan Levi Sanchez, with backing vocals by Carlo Natividad and Stephen Tan, this hopeful ballad is Viola’s debut project with Reverb Worship PH, CBN Asia’s music arm.

Viola’s brand of music is no stranger to messages like these—as she has written and performed songs about faith—Muli, Ah Basta, and Bawat Tagumpay, Ikaw ang Nagbigay, to name a few. She hopes that with Dahil Sa ‘Yo, her ruminations about faith and personal experiences will also comfort anyone seeking truth and redemption.

“I hope that those who listen to the song are reminded that no matter how tough, shameful, or painful life may seem, there is always hope in the Lord. Life becomes meaningful and valuable through Him. He has the power to turn the ugly into beautiful, mend what's broken, bring clarity to confusion, and provide healing and restoration,” she said.

Join the journey of finding hope and purpose. Listen to Viola Natividad's Dahil Sa 'Yo—now available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and all major streaming platforms worldwide. Follow Reverb Worship PH on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for more updates.

Coffee Adventures in Vietnam

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Vietnam, the world's second-largest coffee producer, is a haven for coffee enthusiasts. The country's rich coffee culture, unique brewing techniques, and picturesque coffee farms provide a coffee adventure like no other. From bustling urban cafes to serene highland plantations, Vietnam offers an unparalleled coffee experience that blends tradition, innovation, and natural beauty.

The Historical Roots of Vietnamese Coffee

Coffee was introduced to Vietnam by French colonists in the 19th century. Initially grown in the northern regions, coffee cultivation spread to the central highlands, where the climate and soil proved ideal for robusta beans. Over time, coffee became an integral part of Vietnamese culture and economy, with the country becoming one of the largest coffee exporters globally.

Unique Vietnamese Coffee Culture

Ca Phe Sua Da: The Iconic Iced Coffee

One of the most beloved Vietnamese coffee beverages is Ca Phe Sua Da, or iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk. This drink epitomizes the fusion of bitter and sweet, robusta and dairy, hot and cold. It is made by brewing strong, dark coffee using a traditional Vietnamese drip filter, known as a phin. The hot coffee slowly drips into a glass containing sweetened condensed milk, which is then stirred and poured over ice. The result is a rich, creamy, and refreshing drink that is perfect for Vietnam's warm climate.

Egg Coffee: A Unique Culinary Delight

Another intriguing Vietnamese coffee creation is Ca Phe Trung, or egg coffee. This Hanoi specialty features a creamy, meringue-like froth made from egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk, which is whisked together and poured over robusta coffee. The drink, often enjoyed hot, combines the bitterness of coffee with the sweet, velvety texture of the egg mixture, creating a dessert-like experience that has captivated locals and tourists alike.

Coffee Lounges and Cafes

Vietnam's cities are home to a vibrant coffee scene, with numerous cafes offering a wide range of coffee styles. In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can find everything from traditional coffee houses to modern cafes serving innovative coffee concoctions. Many of these cafes provide a cozy atmosphere, where patrons can relax, socialize, or work while enjoying their coffee.

Exploring Coffee Plantations

The Central Highlands: The Heart of Coffee Production

For those looking to delve deeper into the world of Vietnamese coffee, a visit to the coffee plantations in the Central Highlands is a must. The provinces of Dak Lak, Lam Dong, and Gia Lai are the epicenters of coffee cultivation, producing the majority of the country's robusta beans. The region's lush, green landscapes and cool climate create ideal conditions for coffee growing.

Buon Ma Thuot: The Coffee Capital

Buon Ma Thuot, the capital of Dak Lak province, is often referred to as the coffee capital of Vietnam. Here, you can tour coffee farms, learn about the cultivation and harvesting processes, and sample freshly brewed coffee right at the source. Many farms offer guided tours, allowing visitors to experience the entire coffee production process, from bean to cup.

Dalat: The City of Eternal Spring

Dalat, located in the Lam Dong province, is another key coffee-growing region. Known for its temperate climate and scenic beauty, Dalat is often called the "City of Eternal Spring." The region produces high-quality arabica beans, which are prized for their mild flavor and aromatic profile. Visitors to Dalat can explore coffee farms, visit local roasteries, and enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Coffee Festivals and Events

Vietnam celebrates its coffee culture with various festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most notable is the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival, held biennially in Buon Ma Thuot. This festival showcases the region's coffee heritage, featuring exhibitions, competitions, and cultural performances. Visitors can participate in coffee tastings, barista workshops, and farm tours, making it an immersive experience for coffee lovers.

The Future of Vietnamese Coffee

As Vietnam continues to grow as a major player in the global coffee market, there is a growing emphasis on quality and sustainability. Many farmers are adopting sustainable farming practices to protect the environment and ensure the long-term viability of their crops. Additionally, there is an increasing focus on specialty coffee, with producers experimenting with different processing methods and cultivars to create unique and high-quality coffees.

Vietnam's coffee industry is also benefiting from a new generation of entrepreneurs and coffee enthusiasts who are passionate about promoting Vietnamese coffee both domestically and internationally. This dynamic and evolving coffee scene promises to offer even more exciting coffee adventures in the years to come.

Conclusion

Vietnam's coffee adventures offer a rich tapestry of experiences, from savoring traditional coffee drinks in bustling city cafes to exploring the serene beauty of highland plantations. The country's unique coffee culture, combined with its commitment to quality and sustainability, makes it a must-visit destination for any coffee lover. Whether you're a seasoned coffee aficionado or a curious traveler, Vietnam's coffee journey promises to be an unforgettable adventure.