Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

All roads now lead to the Capitol Complex

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan —The redevelopment of the Capitol Complex will be the next big thing in Pangasinan. This, after the test run of the Reflecting Pool last May 1 that gives a glimpse of the vision of Gov. Ramon Guico III, which will showcase the Capitol grounds as one of the go-to places in Pangasinan. The reflecting pool and interactive fountain project, which is part of the Basic Infrastructure Project (BIP) Construction of Multi-Purpose Facility or the Common Park Center, will give an unobstructed view from the shore to the Provincial Capitol building. The brainchild project of Governor Guico may not even be half finished yet, but spectators are already amazed by the spectacular view it offers, especially made perfect during dusk. Project Features The reflecting pool is guided by an illuminated gentle stream of water, a symbol of continuity and consistency inspired by the natural wonders of the Lingayen Gulf and salt beds. It measures 200 by 22 meters, which is significantly bigger than Baguio’s Wright Park Reflecting Pool, which has a dimension of 100 by 5 meters. Based on its project design, a formal stretch of walkway will be built. There will be a pathway for joggers and bikers as well as safe walkways for elders and persons with disability. Also part of the redevelopment project is the Heritage Park, where the war relics will be placed. Last April, Gov. Guico partnered with the Philippine Veterans Bank and the Philippine World War II Memorial Foundation to ensure that the project would be carried on smoothly. The project aims to give rightful honors to World War II veterans and to encourage the province’s youth to know the role they played in the liberation of the country in 1945. To address the perennial flooding at the Capitol Complex, the drainage system will be improved. (Ruby F. Rayat/ Photo: Joey Olimpo PIMRO)

Statement of Mayor Magalong on PBBM’s Call for Courtesy Resignations

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

As a public servant and advocate for good governance, I welcome President Bongbong Marcos’ call for courtesy resignations of cabinet secretaries, viewing it as a demonstration of his commitment to reform. When we met in 2018, prior to the filing of his candidacy for the presidency, he expressed his desire to redeem his father’s name, and his most recent initiative is a step in that direction. To build on this momentum and restore trust and integrity in government, I propose the following measures to strengthen the fight against corruption: Abolish congressional pork barrel allocations in executive departments like DPWH, DSWD, DOLE, DOH, etc., ensuring transparency and accountability in resource allocation. Shield departmental appointments, particularly in frontline departments like DPWH, from congressional interference to ensure merit-based selections. Eliminate the practice of “percentages” of corrupt politicians in public projects and other forms of corruption that undermine public trust. ALL TRANSPARENCY IN THE BIDDING PROCESS TO PREEMPT RIGGED BIDDINGS THAT ONLY BENEFIT CORRUPT POLITICIANS (AND THEIR RELATIVES) WHO ARE CONTRACTORS AND SUPPLIERS. Hold corrupt politicians accountable through swift and impartial prosecution. Remove congressional control over programs like AKAP, AICS, MAIP, TUPAD, CHED, and TESDA scholarships, ensuring these resources directly benefit the people WITH FULL TRANSPARENCY and without partisan influence. While call for courtesy resignations is a welcome start, it is crucial that we continue to push for meaningful and GENUINE reforms. By working together, we can make Good Governance the standard in public service, prioritizing the welfare of the Filipino people above all else. BENJAMIN B. MAGALONG Public Servant

SM Prime Group wins big at the Philippine Leadership Awards 2025

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SMPHI), SM Supermalls, and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) have been honored as among the Philippines’ Best Employer Brands for 2025. This recognition underscores the group’s unwavering commitment to excellence in people management. “Being recognized as the Best Employer Brand affirms our commitment to creating opportunities for every employee to experience ‘More to Life’ — by empowering our people, enriching lives, and shaping a better future for the communities we serve,” said Jeffrey Lim, President of SMPHI. “This achievement was further strengthened by the individual recognition received by some of our Human Resources (HR) leaders, whose vision and dedication have been instrumental in building improvements in employee experience across the SM Prime Group.” The accolade highlights SM Prime Group’s collective efforts in promoting a workplace culture that champions growth, collaboration, and inclusivity. Across its diverse businesses—from integrated property development to retail and residential services—SM Prime Group continues to implement strategies and initiatives designed to enhance the employee experience while achieving organizational goals. Key initiatives such as digital learning platforms, employee wellness programs, coaching and mentoring, career mobility pathways, and community engagement activities have cultivated an environment where employees can learn, lead, and make a meaningful impact. These efforts not only contribute to individual growth but also promote a sense of belonging and purpose within the organization. This achievement was further validated by the individual awards received by some of SM Prime Group’s HR Heads: Cheryll Ruth Agsaoay, Senior Vice President-HR of SM Supermalls, was recognized as the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of the year; Margarita Castaneda, Vice President-HR of SM Prime Holdings, was honored as Top HR Icon; and Rhodora de Leon, Senior Assistant Vice President-HR of SMDC, was recognized among the Top Most HR Leaders. Additionally, Jay Rodriguez, Head for Recruitment and Employer Branding, and Clark del Carmen, Head for Digital Employee Experience, both from SM Supermalls, received individual recognitions for HR Super Achiever and Visionary Leader awards, respectively.

BYD Philippines opens Subic branch

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

Subic Bay Freeport—In line with its thrust to make this premier Freeport a carbon-neutral economic zone by 2030, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) opened its doors to BYD Philippines, with its newest branch here. During its grand opening on May 19, 2025, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the opening of China’s leading electric vehicle maker here solidifies the stance of the agency in making Subic Freeport carbon-neutral. He added that the Harmony Auto Philippines-operated branch of BYD will certainly sell a huge volume of electric vehicles that will significantly reduce harmful emissions, while making this premier Freeport its home. The BYD Subic Branch offers consumers an option for owning a vehicle that is eco-friendly and energy-efficient. The showroom cum service center offers the newest and the latest electric vehicles to residents of Central Luzon. Aliño, BYD Philippines Country Head Adam Hu, BYD Cars Philippines Managing Director Bob Palanca, and Harmony Auto Philippines General Manager Owen Meneses led the inauguration of the fifth franchise of the Chinese EV brand in the country. Also gracing the event were Bataan Congressman Albert Garcia, former Hermosa Mayor Joseph Anthony Inton, and Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr., as well as the SBMA Board of Directors as guests of honor. Subic Bay Freeport is equipped with various EV charging stations that are easily accessible to the public. One is located at the ACEA Subic Beach Resort; another at the Harbor Point Ayala Mall at the Rizal Highway; and one at the Unioil Petroleum Philippines Inc. Subic.

San Miguel Foods reports lower malnutrition rates in expanded health program

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

San Miguel Foods Inc. (SMFI) has reported a significant reduction in malnutrition among children covered by its expanded mother-and-child health program, “Happy si Mommy, Malusog si Baby,” now reaching over 1,000 beneficiaries in 24 barangays nationwide. Data from the program show that 89% of children enrolled have reached normal height and weight, underweight cases have dropped to 2%, and only 9% remain classified as malnourished. The initiative supports mothers and infants during the first 1,000 days of life — from pregnancy to age two — a critical period for early development and long-term health. Initially launched in 2022 in nine pilot barangays with 254 mother-and-child pairs, the program has since grown to cover more than 400 families in Luzon, over 300 in the Visayas, and more than 250 in Mindanao. The initiative is implemented in partnership with San Miguel Foundation (SMF), local government units, and private sector partners. It provides prenatal checkups, ultrasounds, maternal health education, and Mingo Meals — a fortified food made of rice, mung beans, and moringa, developed by the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) and produced by the Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation. “These are the kinds of outcomes we hope for when we commit to long-term, community-based work,” said San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang. “Good nutrition starts before birth, and we want to make sure mothers and children in underprivileged communities receive sustained support — not just one-time assistance.” In 2024, as the first batch of children transitioned to toddlerhood, San Miguel Foods distributed an additional three to six months’ worth of Mingo Meals in new flavors, designed to suit changing taste preferences. The program is part of San Miguel’s broader sustainability agenda, which includes a commitment to uplift the lives of 15 million Filipinos by 2030. Beyond direct health support, the program also focuses on training barangay health workers (BHWs). To date, 102 BHWs have been trained through webinars led by DOST-FNRI, covering topics such as breastfeeding, postpartum care, and early childhood nutrition. These health workers then cascade knowledge to participating mothers in their communities.

Sports Tourism Stakeholders meet in Iloilo City

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

The Sports Tourism Forum, to be held on June 5 in Iloilo City, will bring together dozens of professionals in the tourism, sports and education sectors. The one day event is jointly presented by the Department of Tourism Region VI, Sport Turismo Alliance, Inc, the Province of Iloilo and the City of Iloilo. About a hundred participants from across the country will be attending this forum to be held for the first time in Panay Island. ” This is a sports tourism MICE event and we are excited to present the best penal of speakers known in the industry,” revealed Charles Lim, the president of Sports Turismo Alliance, Inc – a non-stock, non-profit organization advocating sports tourism. Leading the distinguished speakers, is Assistant Secretary of the Department of Tourism, Roberto Alabado who is concurrently in charge of Sports Tourism as well as being DOT Regional Director for IVB. Other speakers include Princess Galura of Sunrise Events, Inc the organizers of the IRONMAN and 51.50 triathlons in the Philippines; Patrick Gregorio of DuckWorld PH, chief organizer of the recently revived MPTC Tour of Luzon; Jamelle Camba of multi sports tourism destination awardee, Subic Bay Freeport; Carlo Sampan, Assistant Vice President of Milo Sports Program; Celso Jimenez, Jr, Executive Director of the recently concluded National Big Bike Convention and Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts. “Numerous cities are seriously exploring to develop their cities into sports hubs to attract more tourists. There are many aspects to look into before this could happen,” explained Lim. “This is what this forum is all about. We are here to assist you in that process.” “Tourists visiting the Philippines for sports activities are increasing by large numbers,” added Lim. “We look forward to the synergy in developing sports tourism in the region. This forum shall be a big stepping stone towards this goal.” The Forum is also supported by top brands such as Cebu Pacific, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts and The Primer Group.

BCDA posts record-high P2.04B dividend,total remittances reach P5.2B as of May 2025

Business

Business / Street Journal

Dividends remitted by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to the national government reached a record-high of Php2.04 billion in 2025, marking a 30.68% jump from last year’s Php1.56 billion. This milestone underscores BCDA’s growing fiscal contribution driven by efficient revenue generation and expenditure management. The remittance, formally turned over to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) on 15 May 2025, represents 80% of the BCDA’s net earnings in 2024—well above the 50% minimum required by Republic Act 7656 (the Dividend Law), and exceeding the Department of Finance’s (DOF) call for government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) to remit at least 75% of their net income. This is on top of the Php3.13 billion remitted by the BCDA as a share of asset disposition proceeds collected in 2024, slated for distribution to several beneficiary agencies including the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This is also in addition to the Php46 million guarantee fees paid by the BCDA to the BTr in relation to the government’s loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency for the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway Project. Together, these figures bring the BCDA’s total remittance to the BTr to Php5.21 billion as of mid-May. “The BCDA’s record-high dividend remittance is a proof of the agency’s robust financial position, driven by our unwavering commitment to transform former military bases into bustling economic hubs through high-impact public-private partnerships,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang. “More than contributing to the state coffers, these dividends will provide crucial support for the national government’s programs and further fuel our collective efforts to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the country,” he added. The Dividend Law mandates all GOCCs to declare and remit at least 50% of their net earnings as dividends. To further boost the national government’s non-tax revenues, the DOF has asked GOCCs to raise this to at least 75%. The BCDA, pursuant to Republic Act 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act, is also mandated to contribute a portion of its income from the sale, lease or joint venture developments of former military camps in Metro Manila to the AFP for its modernization program, as well as other beneficiary agencies. Dividends remitted by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to the national government reached a record-high of Php2.04 billion in 2025, marking a 30.68% jump from last year’s Php1.56 billion. This milestone underscores BCDA’s growing fiscal contribution driven by efficient revenue generation and expenditure management. The remittance, formally turned over to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) on 15 May 2025, represents 80% of the BCDA’s net earnings in 2024—well above the 50% minimum required by Republic Act 7656 (the Dividend Law), and exceeding the Department of Finance’s (DOF) call for government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) to remit at least 75% of their net income. This is on top of the Php3.13 billion remitted by the BCDA as a share of asset disposition proceeds collected in 2024, slated for distribution to several beneficiary agencies including the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This is also in addition to the Php46 million guarantee fees paid by the BCDA to the BTr in relation to the government’s loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency for the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway Project. Together, these figures bring the BCDA’s total remittance to the BTr to Php5.21 billion as of mid-May. “The BCDA’s record-high dividend remittance is a proof of the agency’s robust financial position, driven by our unwavering commitment to transform former military bases into bustling economic hubs through high-impact public-private partnerships,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang. “More than contributing to the state coffers, these dividends will provide crucial support for the national government’s programs and further fuel our collective efforts to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the country,” he added. The Dividend Law mandates all GOCCs to declare and remit at least 50% of their net earnings as dividends. To further boost the national government’s non-tax revenues, the DOF has asked GOCCs to raise this to at least 75%. The BCDA, pursuant to Republic Act 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act, is also mandated to contribute a portion of its income from the sale, lease or joint venture developments of former military camps in Metro Manila to the AFP for its modernization program, as well as other beneficiary agencies.

Globe CEO Carl Cruz: ‘connectivity is a right—and we’re making it happen’

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

Globe is making it easier for Filipinos to be connected across the country by rolling out new technologies that improve both mobile and home internet experiences. As of March, Globe has expanded its 5G coverage to 98.71% in Metro Manila and 97.97% in key cities across the Visayas and Mindanao, thanks to the addition of 235 new 5G sites. This means faster, more reliable connections for millions of Filipinos who use their mobile phones anywhere from work to entertainment. These new sites are already supporting over 9.5 million 5G devices, helping make high-speed internet available to even more people across the country. “We’re focused on making sure Filipinos get the best mobile experience possible,” said Carl Cruz, Globe’s President and CEO. “This is about more than speed — it’s about making sure every Filipino, wherever they are, can tap into the future. It’s key for supporting future technologies like AI, and as the cost of 5G devices goes down, we want to make sure more people can access these advancements.” In the first quarter of this year, Globe built 487 new cell towers and upgraded 3,940 existing ones with LTE technology, making sure that the network stays strong, even during busy times. Plus, with new technology like 32T32R Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO), the network is becoming faster and more stable for customers in crowded areas. Globe is steadily changing the story. Under the Connectivity Plan Task Force (CPTF) led by the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), it has already switched on 600 new cell sites in geographically disadvantaged and isolated areas. From northern mountain provinces to island barangays in the south, each new site brings essential access to education, livelihood, health services, and hope. And the mission isn’t over. By the end of 2025, Globe aims to expand this further to 700 as part of a broader industry-wide movement to close the digital gap and ensure that no Filipino is left offline. Globe’s efforts have also been recognized globally. At the Mobile World Congress 2025, the company has been recognized as the Philippines’ Most Consistent Mobile Network from 2022 to 2024. Globe was also honored with the Excellent All-Optical Network for AI Enablement award for creating energy-efficient infrastructure that supports the needs of today’s digital world. “Connectivity is no longer a privilege, it’s a right,” Cruz added. “Globe is working to make sure that right is protected, expanded, and felt in every home and every pocket in this country.” With ongoing upgrades and continued expansion, Globe is ensuring millions of Filipinos have access to fast, reliable mobile and home internet while driving innovation and growth across the country.

DILG-CAR bag ‘Gold’ GAD Seal

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

The Department of the Interior and Local Government – Cordillera Administrative Region (DILG-CAR) was conferred the Gold Gender and Development (GAD) Seal for FY 2023 alongside four other Regional Offices during the Department’s GAD Seal Recognition Rites held at Sequoia Hotel in this city, on May 7, 2025. This recognition is the highest level under the DILG’s GAD Seal Certification Program. It is conferred to DILG Regional Offices that have consistently upheld the principles of Republic Act No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women by integrating gender and development in their systems, policies, operations, and service delivery. The GAD Seal Certification Program, initiated by DILG Region XII and adopted through DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2023-070, aims to institutionalize gender mainstreaming within the Department. The revised guidelines established uniform assessment indicators and introduced a three-tiered recognition system—Gold, Silver, and Bronze—corresponding to scores of 91–100 points, 81–90 points, and 70–80 points, respectively. The DILG-CAR earned the Gold Seal by institutionalizing a functional GAD Focal Point System (GFDS) and the Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI), establishing a GAD Database and GAD corner, conducting GAD-related trainings, providing GAD-related technical assistance to the local government units and other stakeholders, utilizing the 5% GAD budget, establishing necessary facilities and implementing various GAD-related initiatives. DILG-CAR Regional Director Araceli A. San Jose said that this seal exemplifies the Regional Office’s unwavering commitment to realizing GAD Plans and Budgets and translating these into tangible accomplishments. “This recognition shows that our commitment to gender and development is not just in documents or plans, but rather these are seen and felt as a hallmark of our organizational culture,” she said. This is the second GAD Seal for the DILG-CAR since 2022, and RD San Jose vowed to continue championing gender-responsive governance and inclusive public service in all DILG Field Operating Units and local government units across the region. “We will continue to lead by example in promoting local governments that are inclusive, respectful, and responsive to the needs of our communities,” RD San Jose said

Author name: Street Journal