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BTC sa 2025:Sinimulan ang makabagong inisyatiba sa pamumuno ni Gladys Vergara

Baguio City

  Ang Baguio Tourism Council (BTC), na binubuo ng iba’t ibang sektor ng business community ng Baguio City—kabilang ang mga restaurant, hotel, inns, tour and travel agency, transport, arts, culture, media, sports and wellness, at education—ay nagdaos ng unang board meeting noong Pebrero 13, 2025 sa Function Hall, Shakey’s Baguio Restaurant, Kisad Road, Kisad Road, Baguio City. Sa pangunguna ni Gladys A. Vergara at dinaluhan ng mga honorary board members at sectoral heads, ang pulong ay sumaklaw sa mga pivotal updates, reports, at resolutions na humuhubog sa turismo ng Baguio sa darating na taon. Binuksan ni Vergara ang pagpupulong gamit ang Ulat ng kanyang Tagapangulo, na nag-highlight sa maraming tagumpay ng BTC noong 2024. Mula sa muling pagpapasigla sa turismo pagkatapos ng pandemya hanggang sa matagumpay na paglulunsad ng mga kaganapan, ang ulat ay nakatanggap ng nagkakaisang pag-apruba. Sinabi ni Secretary Engr. Aloysius Mapalo ang paglaki ng membership ng BTC, mahahalagang pagpupulong, resolusyon, at aktibidad, na nakakuha din ng pag-apruba ng board. Ipinagmamalaki ng Treasurer na si Mark Jefferson Ng na ang BTC ay nagkaroon ng pinakamahusay na season nito sa ngayon sa mga tuntunin ng pananalapi para sa 2025. Ang tagumpay na ito ay isang patunay ng lumalagong suporta sa publiko at pribadong suporta. VISITA at ATOP 2025 Project Update Sinabi ni Engr. Mapalo ang update sa VIS.I.T.A. (Visitor Information and Tourist Assistance) na proyekto, na may mahalagang papel sa World Ikat Textiles Symposium (WITS). Mga pagsisikap na pagsamahin ang VIS.I.T.A. sa opisyal na proseso ng pagpaparehistro ng ATOP 2025 ay isinasagawa, na may karagdagang pondo mula sa Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Ang Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines National Convention at Tourism National Pearl Awards ay iho-host ng Baguio City sa darating na Oktubre 2025. Ang mga delegado mula sa lahat ng rehiyon ay inaasahang magsasama-sama sa Baguio City para sa ATOP 2025. Itatampok ng kaganapang ito ang papel ng Baguio bilang isang nangungunang sentro ng turismo at ipapakita ang natatanging kultura at mga atraksyon nito sa pambansang madla. Sectoral Highlights • G.2 Sector (Accomodations, Ms. Aurora Alambra): Expressed gratitude for support on scam accommodation infomercials and their involvement in An Enchanted Baguio Christmas 2024. • G.3 Sector (Restaurants, Mr. Rocky Cating): Reported on active participation in the zero-waste economy initiative. • G.5 Sector (Hotels, Mr. Mark Jefferson Ng): Discussed ongoing work with an advertising agency for a political roadshow. • G.6 Sector (Mr. Lacambra): Proposed a city-central gallery for artists with an e-commerce platform linked to VIS.I.T.A. to boost local vendor sales. • G.7 Sector (Heritage, Culture, Arts and Media, Mr. Ferdinand Balanag): Announced the Montañosa Film Festival’s plans to go international by 2026, celebrating its 1st Runner Up award for Best Institutionalized Program for Arts and Culture and the #BreatheBaguio Tourism Video, Grand Winner award for Best Tourism Promotions Video at the 2024 ATP National Pearl Awards. • G.8 Sector (Tour Operators, Ms. Jennefer Baltazar): Introduced the “Breathe Baguio Package” and advocated for ordinances to regulate unauthorized tour guides. • G.9 Sector (Transportation, Mr. William Bumay-et): Proposed inviting civic groups to learn about BTC’s role, which was approved. Resolution and Initiatives The board approved several vital resolutions, including: • A request for the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to prioritize hiring Baguio or Cordillera residents. • Plans for an annual Driver’s Federation training event with LTFRB and the Baguio Police Traffic Division. • A resolution addressing the proliferation of fake PWD IDs, requesting city council intervention. New Projects and Upcoming Events The board endorsed several initiatives: • Support for the Push/Pull Bike Event on March, securing venue approval from the City Mayor’s Office. • Fund support allocations for the Montañosa Film Festival and for the Happy Paws Pet Park Opening Program. The board also acknowledged upcoming major events: • The accreditation of An Enchanted Baguio Christmas by the European Union. • The ongoing 50 Shades of Bloom photography exhibit. • A Medical Mission on February 18, 2025. Public Safety and MPOX Preparedness Hinimok ng BTC ang lahat ng sektor na manatiling mapagbantay tungkol sa MPOX at manatiling may kaalaman sa mga hakbang sa pag-iingat. Ang pagpupulong ay nagmarka ng isa pang produktibong sesyon sa patuloy na pagsisikap ng BTC na itaas ang industriya ng turismo ng Baguio at mapahusay ang pakikipag-ugnayan sa komunidad. Ang mga partikular na follow-up na aksyon ay binalangkas, kabilang ang pakikipag-ugnayan sa mga lokal na awtoridad sa mga hakbang sa kaligtasan ng publiko, karagdagang pagsasama ng VIS.I.T.A. sa mga pangunahing kaganapan, at patuloy na suporta para sa mga paparating na hakbangin.      

Tourism Rest Area itatayo sa Pangasinan

Region 1

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Pinangunahan nina Gov. Ramon V. Guico III, DoT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco, at TIEZA Assistant Chief Operations Officer Gregory A. Oller, ang groundbreaking ceremony ng itatayong Tourism Rest Area (TRA) sa may Capitol grounds, noong Pebrero 13. Nilagdaan din ng mga nabanggit na opisyal ang Memorandum of Agreement, bilang hudyat na maitayo ang tourism facility na magsisilbing convergence point kung saan ang mga dayuhan at lokal na bisita ay makakakuha ng impormasyon sa mga tourism sites, atraksyon, kung paano makarating sa mga lugar at accommodation sa Pangasinan. Si Gov. Guico, sa pasasalamat sa DOT at sa TIEZA para sa proyekto, ay nagsabi na ang lalawigan ay nakahanay na ng ilang game-changing tourism projects para sa Pangasinan. Sinabi ni Guico na ang mga proyekto sa turismo ay nasa deck, kabilang ang patuloy na pagpapaunlad ng Capitol Complex, na kinabibilangan ng higit sa 200-meter reflective pool at interactive fountain na matatagpuan sa likod ng gusali ng Kapitolyo. “Makakadagdag din ito sa mga proyekto ng ating kagalang-galang na kongresista na si Mark Cojuangco, na inuuna niya ang pagbaha, accessibility, at mga isyu sa lugar na ito. At ang Kapitolyo ay gumagawa ng mga plano na magpapalakas sa turismo at gawing mas maginhawa para sa ating mga bisita na bumisita sa Capitol Complex,” sabi ni Guico. Sinabi pa ni Guico na ang iba pang proyekto sa Kapitolyo ay ang pagtatayo ng 11-palapag na provincial capitol plaza na maglalaman ng mga opisina ng lokal at pambansang pamahalaan, isang 300-room hotel, at isang convention center na nagsimula na (Phase 1); ang pagtatayo ng mga ferry boat ride mula sa Limahong Channel dito hanggang sa Hundred Islands sa Alaminos City; at pinahusay na paradahan sa paligid ng Minor Basilica ng Manaoag, na binibisita ng humigit-kumulang lima hanggang walong milyong pilgrims taun-taon, bukod sa iba pa. Nakasaad sa MOA na ang TIEZA ang magpopondo sa konstruksyon, ang DOT ang magmomonitor at magsusuri sa proyekto, at ito ay ibabalik din sa probinsya kapag natapos na ang konstruksyon    

Globe intensifies fight against online child exploitation with NPI content blocking

NCR

Globe continues to reinforce its commitment to online safety by blocking non-photographic imagery (NPI) depicting child sexual abuse, including content generated through artificial intelligence (AI), computer-generated imagery (CGI), animation, and other non-live methods. From August 27, 2024, when Globe initiated NPI blocking, until December 31, Globe has restricted access to 374 URLs and 13 domains showing AI, CGI and other non-live child sexual abuse imagery flagged by its partner, the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF). The IWF has been leading the fight against child sexual abuse material, warning that exposure to such content—even in CGI or cartoon form—can cause significant harm to viewers and is illegal in many jurisdictions. The organization stresses that even accidental viewing of this material can have lasting psychological effects. “Our dedication to online safety drives us to proactively detect and block harmful content, ensuring children are protected from sexual exploitation and other digital threats. Through advanced filtering technologies, we strive to maintain a safer and more secure online space for all,” said Atty. Irish Krystle Salandanan-Almeida, Globe’s Chief Privacy Officer. Globe has invested over USD 2.7 million in advanced content filtering technologies to detect and prevent access to illegal content.  This is aligned with the Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009 (Republic Act 9775), which requires internet service providers (ISPs) to implement technologies that prevent access to and transmission of child sexual abuse and exploitation materials. Globe’s initiative to block NPI is part of its long-standing sustainability campaign, #MakeITSafePH, which actively raises awareness and educates users on online safety while equipping them with essential tools to navigate the digital world securely. Other than NPI, Globe blocked 3,096 domains containing child sexual abuse and exploitation materials from January to December 2024.

12 Van Vianen Artspace Artists bound for Paris

Lifestyle

Van Vianen Artspace is proud to announce that 12 extraordinary artists under its wing will showcase their masterpieces at Art Capital, Grand Palais in Paris, France, from February 18 to 22, 2025. This prestigious international stage will once again witness the brilliance of Filipino artistry, following in the footsteps of Marites Van Vianen, whose groundbreaking achievements have brought immense pride to the Philippines. Each artist has been meticulously selected for their exceptional talent, innovative techniques, and unique perspectives that celebrate both individuality and cultural heritage. Their participation underscores the unparalleled creativity and passion of Filipino artists, placing them at the forefront of the global art scene. Through this significant milestone, Van Vianen Artspace continues its mission of uplifting Filipino artists, giving them the opportunity to shine on the world stage and inspire a new generation of creatives. These artists will not only showcase their remarkable works but also carry the pride of the Philippines, proving once again that Filipino artistry knows no bounds. Stay tuned as these 12 visionaries bring the heart of Filipino art to Paris!    

24 Panagbenga cultural groups showcase culture and dance

Lifestyle

By Zaldy Comanda BAGUIO CITY – Twenty-four cultural dancers of the Cordillera showcased their rich culture and rhythmic artistry dance dubbed Rhythm of the Highlands as one of the signature highlights of the 29th Panagbenga Festival at the Melvin Football ground, Burnham Park, Baguio City, onFebruary 15. With the theme “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries,” the sound of gongs echoed as dances of various cultures and traditions were showcased to show the public the importance of the Cordillera tradition. Rhythm of the Highlands is a traditional event of the Panagbenga Festival, which empowers the rich culture of the Cordillera. The participants include SLSPI IP Socio-Cultural Dance Troupe, Binnadang Irisan Cultural Performing Group (BICPG/CCDG), Inubuan Cultural Performing Group, Tawid and Salig Cultural Dance Group, Gannay x SLSAH Dance Troupe, Kontad, Dang Dang-ay Cultural Performing Group, Iyaman Cultural Performing Group, Uschong Cultural Ensemble, SJDS Chuwe Me Cultural Dance Group. Litagwa Cultural Performing Group, Salibi Performing Group of Easter College, Ragsak Cultural Performing Group, Yaman di Gangsa (YDG) Performing Group, Bimaak Cultural Dance Troupe, Saeng Ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble, Dragon Treasure Cultural Performing Group, Gawis Culture and Arts Ensembles Company, Sakusak Musical Ensemble, e-Baguio Indigenous Cultural and the Arts Society Performing Group (e-BICAS Performing Group), Uggayam Cultural Performing Group, Dagdagup Cultural Dance Group (DDCD JSNHS Cultural Performing Group and Gasat Cultural Dance Group). After their presentations, Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Chairman For Life Atty. Mauricio Domogan announced the champion as Bimaak Cultural Dance Troupe, which received 98% from the judges. Saeng Ya Kasay was the 1st Runner-up — 96% and 2nd Runner-up Iyaman Cultural Performance Group – 93.33%. Bimaak Cultural Dance Troupe was also awarded the Special Award for Choreography and Saeng Ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble was awarded the Special Award for Attire and Props. Awardees will receive P100,000, P70,000, and P50,000 respectively. All other groups that participated will receive P40,000 each, except for one group that did not meet the minimum number of participants. According to the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFFI), the winner and selected cultural performance group will be included in the grand street dancing parade on February 22.          

P44.4-M shabu seized in Panabo City

Vis-Min

  Camp Sgt. Quintin M. Merecido, Buhangin, Davao City — A decisive joint anti-illegal drugs operation was conducted at Oakwood Residence Purok 2, Barangay New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte, that resulted in the arrest of two of the region’s top high-value individuals and the confiscation of 6.537 kilograms of suspected shabu with a Standard Drug Price (SDP) of P44,451,600.00 on February 15. The arrest was made against the regional-level top 1 and regional-level top 3 drug personalities listed in the regional priority 10 High-Value Individual (HVI). Following the arrest is the confiscation of the following evidence: six zip-sealed transparent plastic bags containing white crystalline substances containing suspected shabu, eight transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substances containing suspected shabu, one genuine 1000-peso bill with 199 machine copies of it, 200 machine copies of a 500-peso bill, one INFINIX smartphone, one weighing scale, and one gray plastic container. The arrested persons are now under the custody of the PNP DayNor Panabo MPS, Davao Norte Police Provincial Office (DNPPO) for proper disposition. A case is currently being prepared against them for violating R.A. 9165. With this, PRO 11 Regional Director Police Brig.Gen. Leon Victor Rosete sends his message to all drug peddlers that PRO 11 will not tolerate those who destroy lives for their own gain. “We will not waver in our fight against illegal drugs. We will be relentless in our pursuit of those who threaten the safety and the future of the people in the community, especially in the Davao Region,” he said. Further, Rosete congratulates the successful anti-illegal drugs operation led by the personnel of the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 11, together with personnel from the Regional Intelligence Division PRO 11, City Special Operations Group/City Drug Enforcement Unit, Panabo City Police Station, 2nd Davao Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd DNPMFC), Provincial Intelligence Unit-DNPPO, and Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

Mula sa Tradisyon tungo sa Pagbabago — Kailangan sa Baguio

Baguio City, Inside Politics

Ang mga botante ay kadalasang bumoboto hindi lamang batay sa konsensiya, ngunit naiimpluwensyahan ng mga salik tulad ng name recall, na nagpapahintulot sa parehong mga pulitiko na muling lumitaw sa halalan pagkatapos ng halalan. Sa kabila ng kanilang katandaan, marami sa mga figure na ito ay matigas ang ulo na kumapit sa kapangyarihan, maging sa pambansa o lokal na antas. Ang walang katapusang cycle ng political comebacks na ito ay nagpapalakas sa mga dynasties, nakakasagabal sa sariwang pamumuno, at sa huli ay humahadlang sa pag-unlad ng bansa, na nag-i-trap sa political landscape sa isang estado ng stagnation. Sa kabilang banda, ang bansa ay agarang nangangailangan ng isang mas bata, mas may kakayahang henerasyon ng mga pinuno upang palitan ang mga overstaying na pulitiko na ginawa ang kanilang paulit-ulit na pagbalik sa isang plano sa pagreretiro—o mas masahol pa, isang panghabambuhay na karera ng pribilehiyong pampulitika. Ang mga nakabaon na figure na ito ay kumakapit sa kapangyarihan, tinatrato ang pampublikong tungkulin bilang isang personal na karapatan sa halip na isang tungkulin na maglingkod. Kung walang bagong pamumuno, magpapatuloy ang cycle ng self-serving governance, na mag-aalis sa bansa ng lakas, pagbabago, at integridad na kailangan para sa tunay na pag-unlad. Sa Baguio lamang, umuusbong ang isang bagong henerasyon ng mga dynamic, innovative, at compassionate na mga lider—mga indibidwal na may pananaw at kakayahan na humimok ng tunay na pag-unlad. Kabataang dugo, na ipinakita ng mga promising figure tulad nina Paolo Salvosa, Van Dicang, Pam Cariño, Glenn Gaerlan, Yuri Weygan, Eric Kelly, at Ron Perez—na namumukod-tanging pagganap ay makikita ngayon sa mga kamakailang survey—ay kumakatawan sa sariwang pamumuno na apurahang kailangan ng lungsod. Samantala, patuloy na lumalakas si Gladys Vergara, isang masugid na tagapagtaguyod para sa turismo, na lalong nagpapalakas sa panawagan para sa pagbabago. Ang mga indibidwal na ito ay tumatayo bilang pinakamahusay na mga alternatibo sa nakabaon na mga pulitiko na matagal nang itinuturing ang pampublikong opisina bilang kanilang personal na domain. Ngayon na ang panahon para lumaya mula sa pagwawalang-kilos at maghatid ng mga lider na mas inuuna ang tunay na serbisyo publiko kaysa sa pampulitikang kaligtasan. Ang tradisyunal na pulitika ay hindi kailanman isang paraan ng pasulong para sa Baguio—ang tunay na pag-unlad ay nagmumula sa pagpapaunlad ng inklusibo, solusyong-driven na pamumuno na inuuna ang kinabukasan ng lungsod. Apurahang kailangan natin ang isang bagong henerasyon ng mga pinuno—driven, innovative, at hindi nabibigatan ng mga kabiguan ng nakaraan. Ito ang mga indibidwal na puno ng mga sariwang ideya, na pinalakas ng lakas at determinasyon na ang mga kabataan lamang ang maaaring mag-alok. Sa tabi nila, ang isang dinamikong pangkat ng mga kabataan ngunit may mataas na kakayahan na mga indibidwal ay karapat-dapat sa isang lugar sa konseho ng lungsod—mga pinuno hindi lamang na may kakayahan kundi may matapang na pananaw na itulak ang Baguio na sumulong. Panahon na ng pagbabago. Dapat tayong lumaya mula sa pagwawalang-kilos at ipagkatiwala ang hinaharap sa mga mamumuno nang may layunin, integridad, at isang tunay na pangako na maglingkod.                        

KENNON ROAD-CAMP 2 ROAD REPAIR

CAR

  Motorists going up to Baguio City now easily negotiate the newly asphalted portion of a bypass road in Barangay Twin Peaks, Tuba, Benguet. Earlier , District Engineer Isagani Cayme, head of Benguet 1st Engineering District,DPWH-CAR leads the inspection in said area to facilitate the repair to ease traffic congestion and enhance safety together with his staff. Present are Engr. Henry Apostol ,chief of the Maintenance Section and Engineering Assistant Sean Payad. Repair works follow engineer Khadaffy Tanggol, regional director of the Department of Public Works and Highways in the Cordillera Administrative Region ( DPWH -CAR) advisory to motorists due to repairs.Photo by Primo Agatep/

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