Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

By Victor Martin BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya – Inaprubahan na sa komite ng senior citizen sa kongreso ang substitute bill para sa pagbibigay ng pension sa lahat ng mga senior citizen sa bansa. Sa naganap na ika-apat na regular meeting ng Committee on Senior Citizen sa pangunguna ni Committee Chair Milagros Magsaysay, agad na inaprubahan ng mga kongresista ang substitute bill para sa pag-amyenda sa Republic Act 7432 (The Senior Citizens Act) nitong Martes. Ayon kay Nueva Vizcaya Congressman Tim Cayton, saklaw ng naaprubahan na bill ang House Bill 2691 (Universal Social Pension) na kanyang inihain para sa buwanang pension ng lahat na mga senior citizen na may edad 60 pataas, anuman ang katayuan sa buhay. “Ang House Bill na ating inihain ay para sa lahat ng Senior Citizen sa bansa, mayaman man o mahirap, may tinatanggap man sa SSS, GSIS, PVAO o anuman ang katayuan sa buhay, lahat ay kasama bata’t nasa edad 60 pataas,” pahayag ni Cayton. Pinasalamatan din ni Cayton ang mga kapwa mambabatas na naghain ng kahalintulad na panukala para lalong mapagtibay at mapabilis ang pag-apruba sa substitute bill. Matatandaan na ang Universal Social Pension ang kauna-unahang inihain ni Cayton na House Bill sa kanyang unang araw sa kongreso matapos maupo bilang mambabatas ng Nueva Vizcaya. Bilang dating Mayor ng Dupax del Norte ng 9 na taon ay itinatag ni Cayton ang localized social pension noong 2016 na nagbibigay ng buwanang pesnsion sa lahat ng mga senior citizen sa kanyang bayan. Dahil dito ay itinanghal si Cayton bilang Most Outstanding Mayor of the Philippines noong 2023 sa larangan ng social services.

Firecracker seller caught in police entrapment

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Philippines – Joint personnel of the Regional Civil Security Unit of the Police Regional Office-1 nabbed a firecracker seller during an entrapment operation in Barangay San Nicolas, Candon City, Ilocos Sur, on December 16. According to PCol. Cherry Fajardo, chief of RCSU1, the 26-year-old man, a resident of San Esteban, Ilocos Sur, negotiated with them to sell firecrackers, so the entrapment was conducted with the help of other police agencies. The operation was conducted at around 5:35 p.m. in the aforementioned area and 105 pieces of Dart Bombs worth P4,200 were confiscated from the suspect and the boodle money and cash used in the entrapment were also recovered. According to Fajardo, the confiscated firecrackers were being smuggled and the suspect is facing charges for violation of Section 3 of RA 7183 (An Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution, and Use of Firecrackers and Other Pyrotechnic Devices), in relation to Section 6 of RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012). (By Zaldy Comanda)

Summit Galleria Cebu Brightens Christmas with Meaningful Stays

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

Book a Room, Support a Cause Summit Galleria Cebu is celebrating the Christmas season with a festive lineup of holiday offerings under the theme, “A Brighter Christmas Together.” In keeping with its annual tradition, the hotel is dedicated to making holiday celebrations more meaningful for its guests by supporting causes that foster shared experiences and aid communities in need. General Manager Melanie Arceo says, “We are offering special holiday room rates for family bonding and leisure escapes. The most significant feature of this campaign is our commitment to giving back by donating a portion of the revenue from every room booking throughout the holiday season to our partner advocacy, Children of Cebu Foundation. They provide a safe home for orphaned, abandoned, neglected children in Cebu and we are committed to giving them support.” She adds that Summit Galleria Cebu offers a variety of event space options, including its Ballroom, for reunions and celebrations. “Our welcoming venues simplify the process of holiday hosting for loved ones, friends, and colleagues — allowing everyone to focus on the joy of connection”, Arceo explains. In addition, the hotel offers the perfect gifts with a delectable variety of Christmas goodies and holiday hampers filled with premium treats and Christmas delights—ideal for sharing and savoring the season with family and friends. And on the most festive dates of the holidays—December 24, 25, and 31—guests can enjoy extraordinary buffet spreads at the brand’s signature Café Summit, featuring seasonal specialties and crowd favorites, creating a perfect backdrop for unforgettable family dining traditions. For dining reservations, please call 888-1777 or (0968) 635 7265. Room reservations for Summit Galleria Cebu can be made through: https://summithotels.ph/hotels/summit-galleria-cebu or through the Robinsons Hotels and Resorts app

Ebdane officially opens 33rd Asia Pacific Regional Scout Jamboree

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

By Ruben A. Veloria BOTOLAN, Zambales, Philippines — Designated Camp Chief and Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. on Monday officially opened the 33rd Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Jamboree in Scout Camp Kainomayan in Barangay San Juan, this town. Gov. Ebdane welcome the 25,000 scout leaders and support individuals of “different nations and culture united by service and shared commitment in shaping our better future” come together to join one of the biggest scout jamboree in the history of scouting in the world. “Today is historical event as scouts from 19 nations of different languages, culture and religion, come together, reminding us that unity and cooperation can overcome differences,” Gov. Ebdane said. Gov. Ebdane noted that the jamboree is more than a gathering, but a training ground for future leaders, “who will protect the environment, strengthen community, promote peace, and to face of challenges with courage and compassion.” Meanwhile, APR Scout Committee Chairperson Dato’ Dr. Mohd Zin Bin Bidin lauded the local provincial government headed by Gov. Ebdane for the “vibrant, massive and incredible scout jamboree site. “Thank you Mr. Governor and Camp Chief Ebdane for giving the 33rd Asia Pacific Regional Scout Jamboree a truly ‘biggest open-classroom in the world,” said Bidin. The scout jamboree will run until December 21 with a program and activities designed to enhance skills development, nature adventure, cultural exchange and social learnings and friendship. “Make the best of this jamboree, as you make new friends and experiences,” Bidin said. Based on Boy Scout of the Philippines (BSP) website, among the delegations for the event, include Bangladesh, Fiji, Hong Kong, South Korea, TGA Scouts of China, Brunei Darussalam, Maldives, USA, Canada, Kuwait, and the host country, the Philippines which will be sending the biggest delegation. On her part, Rep. Doris “Nanay Bing” Maniquiz (Zambales, (2nd Dist.) expressed her gratitude for a dream come true. “Among the first dream of mine is to bring the 33rd APR Scout Jamboree to Zambales, to make history that will be written in history books and archives,” she said, as she thanked Gov. Ebdane and Zambales Provincial Engineering and Infrastructure Development (ZPEID) Consultant Engineer Domingo Mariano. In mid-2025, Gov. Ebdane commissioned Engr Mariano to plan and construct the best camp site for the 33rd APR Scout Jamboree. In response, Engr. Mariano created in merely 118 days the Scout Camp Kainomayan Jamboree site defeating time, six typhoons, 10 hours of power outage, lack of materials and manpower. The result: a 62-ha. Jamboree complex complimented with roads and six bridges with signage, huge mess hall, clinics and emergency posts with ambulances on stand-by, security post which monitors a network of 94 CCTV, and a Grand Arena Camp which can accommodate 30,000 participants, a parking space to handle 600 units of bus, and the installation of seven power transformers for electric power supply. The camp site is divided into seven smaller APR villages or sub-camps, with each sub-camp is complemented with comfort rooms, bath-wash with shower, and laundry area, water and electricity supplies, and spacious grounds. Earlier, a Holy Mass was celebrated in the Religious Pavilion, and was followed by the unveiling of the BSP 33rd Asia Pacific Regional Scot Jamboree totem pole o which both events were graced by Camp Chief and Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., and other BSP Officials.

Shared Responsibility, Shared Security: Strengthening Cloud Resilience in the Philippines

Business

Business / Street Journal

Cloud computing now anchors the Philippines’ digital transformation, powering smarter banking, faster government services, and more connected businesses. But as cloud adoption accelerates, so does the question of accountability: who is truly responsible for keeping our data, applications, and systems secure? While cloud providers safeguard the underlying infrastructure, customers ultimately control their own data, configurations, and user access. This “shared responsibility” model is meant to balance trust and transparency, but in practice, it often creates gaps that attackers are quick to exploit. In a cloud-first Philippines, where information moves fluidly across hybrid and multi-cloud environments, human error remains the biggest vulnerability. The Local Threat Landscape The 2025 Fortinet–Cybersecurity Insiders State of Cloud Security Report highlights how confusion around shared responsibility remains one of the top risks for global organisations. Although providers secure the platforms, users, from enterprises to individual developers are accountable for what they build and host. In the Philippines, the challenge is amplified by the country’s rapid pace of digitalisation. The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) reported millions of malicious attempts against government systems in 2024, while the National Cybersecurity Plan 2023–2028 identified malware, data leaks, and compromised websites among the most frequent incidents. These numbers reveal a simple truth: while innovation is moving fast, security readiness is still catching up. Bridging the Human and Technical Divide Before the cloud, organizations controlled every part of their IT environment, from servers, networks, to user devices. Now, with workloads spread across multiple platforms and third-party providers, a single misconfiguration or overlooked access setting can open the door to an attack. Cloud providers are responsible for platform integrity, but users must secure what they put inside it. That includes managing access credentials, protecting stored data, and applying patches promptly. Yet breaches continue to occur because people assume “someone else” is responsible. This mindset must change. Technology alone cannot close the security gap. Weak passwords, over-privileged accounts, and outdated systems remain among the most common causes of exposure. Filipino companies must empower every employee, and not just the IT team to become a first line of defence. Cyber awareness should be part of everyday business culture, from the boardroom to the help desk. Building a Culture of Accountability Security begins with good governance and awareness. Enforcing multi-factor authentication and the principle of least privilege helps limit access to sensitive systems. Integrating security testing early into software development (DevSecOps) reduces vulnerabilities before deployment. Regular audits of configurations and permissions, especially in hybrid environments, prevent issues from going unnoticed. However, processes alone are not enough. The Philippines faces a growing shortage of cybersecurity professionals, compounded by uneven reporting on cyber incidents. This makes it harder for both public and private sectors to design effective defense strategies. To close this gap, leadership must make cybersecurity an organization-wide responsibility. Executives should champion clear governance frameworks for cloud security, invest in regular simulations and training, and ensure that accountability is shared across functions. Transparency through periodic reporting on vulnerabilities, vendor risks, and response plans, which builds trust and drives improvement. From Compliance to Confidence As cyber threats become more sophisticated, cloud and application security can no longer be treated as a compliance exercise. It must be seen as a pillar of digital trust and the foundation on which the country’s digital economy depends. The journey to a secure cloud ecosystem is not just about deploying technology; it’s about empowering people, enforcing governance, and embracing accountability at every level. When Filipino businesses, public agencies, and technology partners take collective ownership of cybersecurity, the Philippines moves closer to a cloud economy that is not only innovative but also resilient and trusted.

DILG-Baguio office garners major local governance awards

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government – Baguio City Field Office (DILG-BCFO) under Dir. Millicent B. Carino emerged as Champion in two major categories during the 2025 Saleng and Tsinelas ni Jesse Innovations Awards of DILG-CAR, Dec. 2, at Hotel Elizabeth, here. The DILG-BCFO was chosen as Best Provincial/Highly Urbanized City (HUC) Team under the 2025 Saleng Awards and Most Innovative Provincial/Highly Urbanized City Team under the 2025 Tsinelas ni Jesse Innovations Awards. Carino said these recognitions honor the team’s unwavering dedication, collective hard work, and innovative practices that continuously strengthen local governance across the region. The Best Provincial/HUC Team Award acknowledges exceptional teams whose initiatives and collaboration contribute significantly to effective and responsive local governance, while the Tsinelas ni Jesse Innovations Awards celebrate the enduring legacy of the late Sec. Jesse M. Robredo, whose iconic “tsinelas leadership” embodies humility, sincerity, and genuine service to the community. “The DILG-BCFO’s win reflects its commitment to these values through forward-thinking and impactful innovations,” she stressed. Carino, and former DILG-BCFO personnel Allan F. Ocal, and Joe Pablo M. Gernale were also recognized during the occasion for their exemplary efforts and dedication in ensuring the successful implementation of various DILG projects, programs, and activities. These include the Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards; Local Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children; Local Council for the Protection of Children; Seal of Good Local Governance for Barangay; and the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit. – Gaby B. Keith with DILG reports

FROM MECHANIC TO BILLIONAIRE: The Untold Story of Ramon Ang

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

By Explore Unseen Travel PH He started fixing cars in Tondo… now he drives a billion-dollar empire. From grease to greatness — this is the story every dreamer needs to hear. Ramon S. Ang didn’t grow up with wealth, influence, or privilege. He was a young boy from Tondo, Manila — a place known more for its hustle than luxury. While others dreamed of fame, Ramon dreamed of engines. He would spend hours tinkering with machines, fascinated by how every part worked together to make something move. He didn’t know it then, but that fascination would be the first spark of a billion-peso empire. THE STRUGGLE YEARS Life wasn’t easy. He wasn’t born with connections or a famous last name. But what he did have — was grit. After finishing Mechanical Engineering at Far Eastern University, Ramon started as a small-time mechanic. Grease on his hands, sweat on his brow — yet, he never complained. He believed that every screw he turned was a step toward something greater. He learned not just how machines worked, but how people worked. He saw that business wasn’t only about brains or money — it was about understanding value and serving others. THE TURNING POINT His skills and determination caught the attention of Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco, one of the most powerful businessmen in the country. Conjuangco saw in Ramon something rare — not just intelligence, but integrity and drive. That mentorship changed everything. Ramon became Conjuangco’s trusted right-hand man in San Miguel Corporation (SMC) — a company once know only for beer. But under his leadership, SMC transformed into a powerhouse spanning infrastructure, energy fuel, and manufacturing. He didn’t just manage a company — he rebuilt an empire. THE HEART BEHIND THE BILLIONAIRE Even after all the success, Ramon Ang never forgot where he came from. When typhoons hit, when the pandemic struck, and when people lost jobs — he stepped up. He donated billions to rebuild communities, provided relief, and kept businesses running to protect employees. To him, “business is not just about profit — it’s about purpose.” He believes that when you take care of people, success follows naturally. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE STORY: Your background does not define your future. Skill and humility can open doors that money cannot. Leadership is not about power — it’s about people. From a mechanic in Tondo to a titan of industry, he proved that you don’t need to be born rich to build something great. You just need vision, grit, and the heart to serve others. Some of the companies of Ramon Ang now: San Miguel Corporation, Petron Corp, Top Frontier Investment Holdings Inc, SMC Global Power Holdings Corp., San Miguel Properties Inc., Eagle Cement Corporation and a stake in Ginebra San Miguel Inc.

Gambito joins Cagayan Valley leaders to back major infra push

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday Nueva Vizcaya Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito joined key political leaders from across Cagayan Valley in a meeting that rallied regional support for key infrastructure projects, including the proposed Cagayan Valley Super Highway and the Cagayan Valley River Basin projects. The meeting was led by Cagayan Governor Edgar Aglipay and House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” De Guzman Dy III, with the leaders pushing a unified agenda for a safer, more stable, and more progressive Cagayan Valley. Also present were Batanes Governor Ronald P. Aguto Jr., Isabela Governor Rodolfo T. Albano III, and Quirino Governor Dakila Carlo E. Cua. Joining them were Batanes Rep. Ciriaco B. Gato Jr., Cagayan 1st District Rep. Ramon C. Nolasco Sr., Cagayan 2nd District Rep. Baby Aline Vargas-Alfonso, Isabela 2nd District Rep. Ed Christopher S. Go, and Nueva Vizcaya Rep. Timothy Joseph E. Cayton. The gathering reinforced the region’s push to speak with “one voice” under Gov. Aglipay’s leadership as chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC) 02 and the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) 02, with the aim of speeding up decisions, strengthening security, and improving the delivery of government programs. During the meeting, One Cagayan Vision Team Head and Cagayan Third District Board Member Atty. Engelbert Caronan Jr. presented priority infrastructure initiatives in the region. Speaker Dy III said the projects can be realized if Cagayan Valley leaders remain united and work together, adding that the initiatives are expected to strengthen food and water security across the region. Gambito emphasized Nueva Vizcaya’s strategic role as the gateway to Cagayan Valley, saying improved road connectivity and water resource development would strengthen the movement of goods and people through the province and support the region’s farm output and investments. He said the projects are expected to cut travel time and transport costs, improve market access for agricultural products, and enhance the province’s position as a key entry point for trade and services going to and from the rest of Region 02.

Hike para sa Kalikasan

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

Maagang umakyat sina Gov. Mujiv Hataman sa Sampinit Peak noong nakaraang Sabado kasama ang local mountaineers at mga tauhan ng security sector para silipin ang kalagayan ng kagubatan at makita nang personal kung saan dapat higpitan ang proteksyon ng ating mga punò at watershed. Pagbaba, nagtipon sa Sampinit Complex ang provincial team kasama ang PENRO at OPAG, mga lider ng barangay at iba pang sektor para sa SAGIP Kalikasan BASILANatin stakeholders meeting. Pinag-usapan ang puso ng programa: proteksyon sa gubat, pagpigil at pagpapaliit ng pagputol ng mga punò, at pagbuo ng forest-friendly livelihood para sa komunidad tulad ng agroforestry, tree nurseries, eco-tour guiding at iba pang hanapbuhay na kayang sabayan ang pangangalaga sa kalikasan. Nagkasundo ang lahat sa iisang direksyon at kongkretong commitments para sa mas matatag na kagubatan at mas ligtas na mga pamayanan.

Author name: Street Journal

Universal Social Pension, lusot na sa komite ng Kongreso