Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

By Danny Estacio LUCENA CITY, Quezon – Businessman and former Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson on Saturday, November 9, formally announced his senatorial bid for the 2025 national and local elections, highlighting his commitment to financial inclusion and transport modernization and the creation of Bangko ng Masa. Speaking at a press conference in SM City Lucena, Singson outlined his plans to empower Filipinos and drive economic growth. Singson’s flagship project, “Banko ng Masa,” aims to address the staggering statistic that 77% of Filipinos lack bank accounts and 95% do not have debit or credit cards. His plan seeks to provide every Filipino aged 18 and above with access to a bank account and a credit card, including Visa cards tailored to specific localities. Singson is also committed to making these e-jeepneys accessible to drivers through a unique financing scheme with zero down payments, zero collateral, and no interest. This initiative aims to empower jeepney drivers while addressing air pollution and traffic congestion. “My plan will not only help drivers earn more but also create a more sustainable and efficient transportation system for everyone,” he asserted. Singson pledged to support the financing scheme, particularly for Lucban Drivers and Tricycle Operators and the drivers and operator’s president is the only person to whom he makes transactions.

Baguio-based kickboxers commended anew

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY — City officials recently congratulated and commended Baguio-based kickboxers who won medals during the 2024 Asian Kickboxing Confederation (AKC) championships. In a resolution authored by Councilor Vladimir Cayabas, local legislators stated that the city government proudly recognizes and commends their outstanding achievement, together with their coach Bryan S. Olod, that brought pride and honor not only to the city but to the entire Asian nation and worldwide. Earlier, the 2024 Asian Kickboxing Confederation championships was held on October 6-13, 2024 at Phnom Penh, Cambodia promoted and organized by the prestigious kickboxing organization. Further, some 400 kickboxers from 20 countries participated in the prestigious international combat competition. Among those who represented the Philippines are home-grown and Baguio-based athletes who emerged victorious in their respective categories, namely, Gina Iniong-Araos – gold medalist in the 56-kilogram low kick category; Olympian Hergie T. Bacyadan – gold medalist in the 70-kilogram K1 category that paved the way for him to qualify for the 2024 World Games in Chengdu, China; and Carlo Von Bumina-ang – gold medalist in the 57-kilogram full contact category. Further, Honorio Banario was a silver medalist in the 75-kilogram K1 category while the Baguio-based athletes that brought home separate bronze medals are Claudine Veloso in the 52-kilogram K1 category, Daryl Chulipas in the 51-kilogram full contact category, Felex Dave Cantores in the 67-kilogram full contact category and Whinny Bayawon in the 57-kilogram kick light category. Copies of the approved resolution will be transmitted to the medalists for information, guidance, ready reference and further needed action.

International Cultural Diversity Organization art exhibit in Vienna

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

The evening lights at the Yunus Emre Institute in Vienna created a cozy atmosphere for the diverse crowd that came together to celebrate culture, heritage, and resilience. On September 25, 2024, this event highlighted a fantastic partnership between the International Cultural Diversity Organization (ICDO) and Filipino artists, featuring an exhibit called Cultural Diversity & Inclusion, curated by Norlie Meimban, ICDO’s Ambassador for the Arts. This exhibition was a key part of ICDO’s #SafeguardingDiversity initiative, now in its seventh year, dedicated to promoting cultural diversity around the globe. Inside the gallery, the energy was palpable as attendees from various backgrounds admired the artwork, which drew inspiration from Filipino mythology, pop culture, and abstract expressionism. Each piece offered a unique take on identity, connecting different generations and cultures. One area showcased the vibrant creations of Harold Khan, who brought Filipino mythology to life with stunning portraits of Amansinaya, the sea goddess. Her intense gaze and soothing oceanic hues seemed to create a bridge between the Philippines’ ancient stories and its dynamic, multicultural present. Nearby, striking depictions of second-generation Filipino-European teens illustrated their complex identities, with Khan’s brushwork capturing their feelings of belonging in a world of contrasts. In another part of the gallery, Norlie Meimban’s distinctive black-and-white portraits accented with gold captivated the audience. His subjects, though anonymous, exuded deep emotion, showcasing resilience and dignity. Each polished yet raw image invited viewers to reflect on the strength found within diversity. Adding a splash of color, Ejem Alarcon’s realist pop art drew people into a lively world where traditional Filipino symbols blended with modern themes. His whimsical yet bold creations particularly resonated with younger attendees. Adding vibrant contrast, Ejem Alarcon’s realist pop art pulled people into a colorful universe where traditional Filipino symbols merged with contemporary motifs. His work, whimsical yet bold, resonated with younger viewers who saw themselves reflected in the lively mix of old and new. In another corner, Jessielaine Punongbayan’s fluid abstract paintings unfolded like waves on a canvas. Her pieces spoke of fluidity, mirroring the adaptability required to navigate a multicultural identity. Swirling shapes and colors hinted at emotions unconfined by language or borders, giving viewers a sense of unity beyond words. Ela Andal’s street pop art added an urban edge to the gallery. Infused with European influences, her pieces were bold, unapologetic statements that spoke to the realities of city life and the blending of cultures. Her work was a celebration of grit and glamour, symbolizing the resilience required to thrive as a multicultural artist in a world that often struggles to embrace diversity. Prominent figures in cultural advocacy mingled with the crowd, including Josipa Palac, President of ICDO, and Marizel Rojas of ENFiD Austria, a staunch supporter of Filipino communities abroad. Neivi Martinez, the renowned Mexican soprano, graced the event, her melodious voice adding a touch of elegance and solidarity to the atmosphere. Nigerian artist Solomon Okpurukhre shared his perspective on the universality of art, engaging in heartfelt conversations about the importance of cultural representation. As the evening unfolded, the exhibition echoed with conversations about heritage, identity, and the power of art to amplify voices that are too often silenced. Each piece in the gallery conveyed the message that diversity is not just something to be tolerated but celebrated, and that inclusion is the foundation upon which vibrant societies are built. In the end, Cultural Diversity & Inclusion became more than an exhibit; it was a testament to the beauty of intersectional identities and the stories that emerge when cultures come together. The Filipino artists had left their mark not just on the gallery walls but on the hearts of all who attended, reminding everyone of the vital role art plays in safeguarding and celebrating the mosaic of human experiences worldwide.

P7.1-B 2025 budget ng Pangasinan aprubado na

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Inaprubahan na ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Pangasinan ang P7.1 bilyong budget ng lalawigan para sa taong 2025. Nagpahayag ng matinding pasasalamat si Gobernador Ramon V. Guico III sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa pamumuno ni Vice Governor Mark Ronald Lambino gayundin ang mga department head sa kanilang todo-todong suporta. Ang inaprubahang 2025 Annual Budget na nagkakahalaga ng PhP 7,100,312,215.00 ay nagpakita ng malaking pagtaas kumpara sa P5,729,765,891.00 na badyet ng 2024 na may kapansin-pansing pagkakaiba na P1,370,546,324.00. Ang Provincial Board, sa regular na sesyon nito noong Oktubre 28, ay inaprubahan ang 2025 Annual Budget sa ilalim ng Appropriation Ordinance No. 5-2024, isang ordinansang nagpapatibay sa pangkalahatang pondo taunang badyet para sa operasyon ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Pangasinan mula Enero 1, 2025, upang Disyembre 31, 2025. Batay sa comparative data report, ang National Tax Allocation(NTA) na P4,969,145,891.00 noong 2024, ay tumaas sa P5,899,987,215.00 para sa 2025. Sa iba pang source, makikita sa record na mula P760,620,000.00 noong 2024, tumaas ito sa P1,200,325,000.00 para sa 2025. Samantala, ang buod ng mga paglalaan ay kinabibilangan ng Personal Services (features Implementation of the Salary Standardization Law VI (SSL of 2024), Anniversary Bonus at Medical Allowance); Pagpapanatili at Iba Pang Mga Gastusin sa Operating; Capital Outlay at Special Purpose Appropriation (ang buong probisyon ng mga kinakailangan sa badyet alinsunod sa Seksyon 324 ng Kodigo ng Lokal na Pamahalaan), hanggang sa: 5% LDRRMF na nagkakahalaga ng 350,015,611.00; 20% Development Fund na nagkakahalaga ng P1,179,997,443.00; at Other SPA sa halagang P1,283,306,831.00. Ang kabuuan nito ay kumakatawan sa 39.62% ng kabuuang iminungkahing badyet, na direktang mapupunta sa priority development o mga programa, proyekto, o aktibidad na nakatuon sa resulta na nakapaloob sa Annual Investment Program para sa CY 2025. Kasama rin sa taunang badyet ang mga tinantyang gastusin ayon sa sektor tulad ng sumusunod: mga pangkalahatang serbisyo: P2,680,755,275.00 (37.75%); serbisyong panlipunan: P3,032,256,191.00 (42.71%); Mga Serbisyong Pang-ekonomiya: P1,387,300,749.00 (19.54%) para sa kabuuang P 7,100,312,215.00. Naging thrust ni Gov. Guico at ng kanyang administrasyon na pataasin ang kita ng lalawigan. Alinsunod sa nasabing tulak, sinabi ni Gov.Guico III sa Budget Hearing noong Oktubre 24 na ang mga taga-Pangasinan ay nararapat na hindi bababa sa pinakamahusay na ang gayong epekto ay inilaan para sa CY 2025 at binanggit pa na ito ay ang unang pagkakataon sa kasaysayan ng Pangasinan na iminungkahi ang naturang budget para sa taunang operasyon ng lalawigan. “Noong kami ay nanunungkulan, ang thrust ni Gov. Guico at ng administrasyong ito ay dagdagan ang kita hindi lamang para umasa sa National Tax Allocation (NTA) kundi higit pa, nagtatrabaho ang aming makakaya upang mapabuti ang mga koleksyon, nagmungkahi ng napakaraming negosyong pang-ekonomiya, kahusayan sa pamamahala, at, kasabay nito, ang pagbibigay kapangyarihan sa mga empleyado dahil naniniwala kami na para makamit natin ang lahat ng ito, kailangan natin ang partisipasyon ng bawat Pangasinense, bawat empleyado ng Kapitolyo ng probinsiya, at ng sistema ng ating ospital. . Maging ang mga mababang empleyado ay may malaki at mahalagang bahagi sa pagkamit ng lahat ng ito,” dagdag ng gobernador. Nauna rito, ibinunyag din ng Punong Ehekutibo ng lalawigan na bahagi ng nasabing inaprubahang budget ay para sa pagtatayo ng gnome center, ang makasaysayang ‘first’ para sa Pangasinan, pagtatayo ng karagdagang school building para sa Pangasinan Polytechnic College (PPC), construction at acquisition. ng mga bagong ospital at higit pang mga sentro ng dialysis, at iba pang pasilidad sa imprastraktura. Gayundin, ang pagtaas ng badyet para sa corporate farming project gayundin para sa salt production project ay binibigyang priyoridad bilang karagdagan sa mas mataas na badyet para sa PPC scholarship at ang pagpapalawak ng healthcare system, lalo na ang GUICOnsulta o ang Government Unified Incentives for Medical Consultation,bukod sa iba pa. Ipinahayag din ni Gob. Guico na malaki ang pamumuhunan ng kanyang administrasyon sa healthcare system sa kanyang matatag na paniniwala na mahalaga ang kalusugan at dapat bigyan ng focus. Sa kasalukuyan, target ng paglulunsad ng preventive healthcare system ang humigit-kumulang dalawang milyon ng populasyon na mag-enrol sa PhilHealth’s Konsulta program sa pamamagitan ng GUICOnsulta ng lalawigan upang matugunan ang mga isyu sa pangangalagang pangkalusugan na bumabagabag sa Pangasinan at sa buong bansa. “Ito ay isang katibayan na tayo ay nasa tamang landas. Whatever commitment or promises that we have proposed tour provincemates, hindi po ito pangakong napapako. Ito po ay pangako na tangible, concrete, and very achievable,” the governor said.

Wilcon Depot Inc. to adopt a park

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY — A Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Baguio, led by Mayor Benjie Magalong, and Wilcon Dept Inc., represented by William Belo, was inked on November 7. The MOA expresses the commitment of Wilcon Dept Inc. to support the City in improving the circle or street island located along the stretch of BGH Rotonda through the Adopt-A-Park program. Wilcon Dept Inc. will act as the park’s development partner. Additionally, the volunteer will assist in the park’s preservation, introduce improvements and development projects approved by CEPMO, ensure accessibility, and then finally turn over all accomplishments upon the revocation or termination of the agreement. Meanwhile, the city will exercise its authority to review and approve any programs and projects of the cooperative before its implementation. It will also supervise the execution of these, ensure the preservation and safeguarding of park facilities, allow the temporary setting up of the volunteer’s signage at the location, and enforce existing laws, rules, regulations, and ordinances on the management and operation of City parks. The Adopt-A-Park program allows government and non-government entities to participate in development activities for city parks. Photos by Eunice Tomacder

Joint operatives seizes kilos of shabu at Liloan Port

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

CAMP GOV. BANTUG, Maasin City – Authorities intercepted a large drug haul discovered in an abandoned vehicle during a port interdiction operation at the Liloan Ferry Terminal, Barangay San Roque, Liloan, Southern Leyte, early morning on November 8. At around 12:15 a.m, a composite team from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Southern Leyte Maritime Group (SLMG), Liloan Municipal Police Station (Liloan MPS), Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU) 8, Provincial Intelligence Unit and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) conducted a routine inspection of vehicles arriving from the MV Fast Cat M17, which had traveled from Surigao City, Surigao Del Norte. During the inspection, the team found an abandoned virgil grey Mitsubishi Montero with its engine running in the port’s marshalling area. Anticipating that the vehicle may be loaded with explosives, the interdiction team requested the assistance of the PCG K9 unit. The initial search for explosives, conducted in the presence of barangay officials from San Roque, Liloan, and employees of FastCat, yielded negative results. However, at around 1:50 a.m, PDEA agents conducted a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s interior and found three large bags in its compartment. A Narcotic Detection Dog indicated a positive alert for illegal drugs. Upon further examination, authorities confiscated a total of 57 large packs containing suspected illegal substances, estimated to weigh approximately one kilogram per pack. A follow-up investigation into the identity and whereabouts of the driver, based on the bill of lading, revealed that the driver is from Surigao, while the registered owner of the vehicle is from Carmen, Surigao del Sur. The joint team is currently conducting follow-up operations, backtracking the vehicle’s movements and, if necessary, initiating a hot pursuit of the driver. Col. Hector Enage, provincial director of the Southern Leyte Police Provincial Office, lauded the composite interdiction team for promptly executing the port operations as agreed upon during the Transit Guard meeting on September 25, 2024. “I am pleased to report that the team has successfully removed approximately 57 kilograms of illegal drugs from our streets,” he stated. “This significant seizure represents our commitment to protecting our communities and ensuring a safer environment for all.”

CONGRATULATIONS, Islay Erika Bomogao

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

CONGRATULATIONS, Islay Erika Bomogao Our Igorot pride just won her first ONE Championship fight against Fuu of Japan in a 100-pound catchweight bout by way of a clear-cut unanimous decision held Friday evening at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. We are very proud of you, Islay. Happy birthday, too.

SEC reminds corporations to clear their record as ECIP deadline draws near

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

Corporations have only less than a month left to clear their record and avoid higher fines and penalties for the late and non-filing of reportorial requirements to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Ending on November 30, the SEC Enhanced Compliance Incentive Plan (ECIP) under Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 13, Series of 2024 provides eligible corporations a final chance to regain their good standing and pay penalties at significantly lower rates. “With less than a month left before we officially close ECIP, we encourage noncompliant, suspended and revoked corporations to complete their applications to ensure the continuous operations of their businesses,” SEC Chairperson Emilio B. Aquino said. “We remind corporations that the submission of reportorial requirements is mandated by law, and failure to comply could result in the suspension or revocation of their corporate registration,” he added. Republic Act No. 11232, or the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines, requires all SEC-registered corporations to submit their annual financial statements (AFS) and General Information Sheets (GIS). Noncompliance could lead to the imposition of applicable fines and penalties and, for extreme cases, the suspension or revocation of corporate registration. This strips a company of the powers and privileges granted to a registered corporation, including separate juridical personality, limited liability, and perpetual existence, among others. Corporations who have incurred fines and penalties for the late or non-filing of their AFS or GIS, as well as noncompliance with MC No. 28, Series of 2020, which requires corporations to designate official and alternative contact details, may apply for ECIP. Page 2 of 2 Under the program, non-compliant corporations, including those under the delinquent status, shall pay only P20,000 to settle their fines and penalties for the covered violations, while suspended or revoked corporations will only have to pay 50% of their total assessed penalties, and a petition fee of P3,060 to lift their order of suspension/revocation. However, payment of the ECIP fees does not guarantee that corporations will automatically regain their good standing. Eligible corporations will have to submit their latest due AFS and GIS as part of their application. Suspended/revoked firms, meanwhile, will also have to submit their petition to lift the order of suspension or revocation, along with other supporting documents. Eligible corporations, which fail to avail of ECIP, will be subjected to the updated scale of fines and penalties that the SEC implemented in April through MC No. 6, Series of 2024. The new rates are around 900% to 1,900% higher compared to the previous rates that had been in place for more than two decades. The application process is fully online. To apply for ECIP, corporations should log in their respective accounts on the SEC Electronic Filing and Submission Tool (eFAST) and pay the fees through Electronic System for Payments to the SEC (eSPAYSEC).

Baguio’s top wanted person for 31 counts of theft, arrested in Pangasinan

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY — A 36-year-old male individual, identified as the Top 8 Most Wanted Person in the City of Baguio, was arrested during a coordinated police operation in Bulaoen East, Sison, Pangasinan on November 7, 2024. The operation was carried out by the joint forces of the City Intelligence Unit (CIU) along with the City Investigation and Detection Management Unit (CIDMU), BCPO Police Station 4, Regional Intelligence Division (RID) PRO CAR, City Intelligence Team Baguio RIU-14, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), Pangasinan Police Front Unit – Special Action Tracker Team 3, and the Sison Municipal Police Station. The individual, a married resident of Sison, Pangasinan, is facing charges for committing 31 counts of Theft. He was booked in Sison Municipal Police Station and will soon be transported to Baguio City Police Office, where he will face charges filed against him. The Baguio City Police Office, under the supervision of Col.Ruel Tagel,city director, continues to step up efforts to apprehend individuals with outstanding warrants as part of its commitment to public safety and public service.

Author name: Street Journal

Former Ilocos Sur Gov. Singson announces his senatorial bid in Quezon