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USD33M solar power facility to rise in New Clark City 

Environment

Advancing New Clark City’s goal of fostering sustainable development, Sindicatum C-Solar Power Inc. (SCSPI), a subsidiary of Singapore-based renewable energy developer Gurīn Energy Pte Ltd, has started the construction of a USD33 million solar photovoltaic power plant within the rising metropolis, with completion targeted by next year. On 11 April 2025, SCSPI and Gurīn Energy, joined by the Department of Energy (DOE), Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and Union Bank of the Philippines, broke ground for the Capas Solar Power Project on a 40-hectare lot within New Clark City, marking the official start of the facility’s construction. “[T]he Philippines has one of the most exciting opportunities for renewable energy in the world. Here in Capas, Tarlac, with the support of the BCDA, the local government, and the stakeholders in our community, we wanted to show our commitment to our workplans by having this groundbreaking [ceremony],” said Jose Rafael R. Mendoza, president of SCSPI and country manager of Gurīn Energy. “Putting together a solar facility requires work not only from the developer, but cooperation with multiple stakeholders. It truly is a combination of multiple talents. And we’re very pleased to share this moment with you so that we continue to deliver a lasting impact for the progress of the Philippines,” he added. With a total investment commitment of USD33 million, the facility will have a total capacity of 38.81 megawatts peak (31.25 megawatts alternating current) upon its completion, which is targeted by January 2026. The power plant will be connected to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ substation in Concepcion, Tarlac via a 69-kilovolt transmission line. The project seeks to boost the renewable sector’s share in the Philippines’ total energy mix, and to address the power requirements of locators and residents in New Clark City and the Tarlac province. “This proposed solar project would definitely add to our target of achieving 35% of renewable energy share in the power generation mix by 2030…With this renewable energy plant, which will be operational by next year, it will add significant energy generation, especially to the Luzon grid,” said Ruby B. de Guzman, assistant director of DOE’s Renewable Energy Management Bureau. Erwin Kenneth R. Peralta, vice president for Investment Promotions and Marketing of the BCDA, added: “This solar power project will not only generate the energy for New Clark City, but will also bring skills, employment and economic prosperity to the local community, proving that progress can go hand in hand with innovation and sustainability.” On 10 September 2015, the BCDA and SCSPI entered into an agreement for the 25-year lease of  the property in New Clark City for the development of the solar photovoltaic power plant. In June 2023, SCSPI informed the BCDA of changes in its ownership structure after Gurīn Energy acquired its holding company, Capas Investment Pte. Ltd from Sindicatum Renewable Energy Company Pte. Ltd.,   Gurīn Energy, backed by New Zealand-based Infratil Ltd., is a renewable energy provider with investments in several wind and solar energy projects across Asia, including the Philippines. The company’s Capas Solar Power Project is seen to build up the renewable energy market in the Central Luzon, contributing to the national government’s goal of increasing renewable energy’s share in the country’s energy generation mix to 30% by year 2030 and 50% by 2040. It is also aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal No. 7, which is ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.        

PAPTELCO echoes PCTO position on potential national security issues if Konektadong Pinoy bill is enacted into law

NCR

MANILA, Philippines  – The Philippine Association of Private Telecommunications Companies (PAPTELCO), an organization of independent  telecommunications companies providing connectivity in farflung provinces, warned the government that the national security risk from the Konektadong Pinoy bill (Senate Bill 2699)is a real concern. “This is not just a concern of the large telecommunications players that own the cable landing stations and international gateway facilities, but also small telecommunication companies like us. The country’s national security is everyone’s concern,” said Atty. Normandy Baldovino Jr., president of PAPTELCO. In the Coffee and Connections event of the Philippine Information & Communications Technology Organization held last April 7, the Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) called out certain provisions in the Konektadong Pinoy bill that will be detrimental to both the Philippine’s national security and Filipino consumers, specifically the removal of the requirement for a Congressional franchise for new telecommunications players entering the Philippines, the watering down of the regulatory duties of the National Telecommunications Commission to an administrative one, the lack of vetting of new telecommunications players, and the lack of a requirement for new telecommunications players to be cybersecure prior to operating in the Philippines. Atty. Baldovino believes these shortcomings should be addressed in the bill and not just in the implementing rules and regulations. “We can’t sacrifice the country’s national security. While the Konektadong Pinoy bill has good intentions, it may have adverse effects down the road similar to when the government legalized Philippine Offshore Gaming Corporations (POGO). We have to correct the bill itself to ensure there is nothing lost when it comes to the implementing rules and regulations,” he said. Under the bill, foreign-controlled companies are allowed to control critical information infrastructure (CII) essential for national security, without any financial, technical or legal checking. New players are also allowed a grace period of one to three years after start of operations to have cyber security in place. This despite the high incidence of hacking in the Philippines. The Konektadong Pinoy bill is a priority measure by the current administration that aims to expand internet access in the country by easing the entry of new players in the data transmission industry. The Konektadong Pinoy Act was passed by the Senate on third and final reading last February 7, 2025, right before Congress went into recess and is slated for the bicameral conference committee once Congress resumes sessions in June.

Sembrano, nakiisa sa foundation day ng City Camp Proper

Inside Politics

Nakiisa si comebacking city councilor candidate Elaine Sembrano, kasama si re-electionist Atty Elmer Datuin sa Induction at Oathtaking nag mga bagong opisyales ng M.O.V.E Fatherhood City Camp Proper Chapter Officers and members.Hinikayat ni Sembrano ang ang samahan na maging matatag at responsible sa mga programa para sa barangay. Pag nakabalik sa konseho, nangako din si Sembrano ng suporta sa anumang programa ng samahan. Ang okasyon ay kasabay ng ika- 57 Foundation Day ng Barangya City Camp Proper, BaguioCity.

MAGARA tamdem para sa kinabukasan ng Baguio

Inside Politics

BAGUIO CITY—Sa harap ng nagbabagong political landscape sa Baguio City, isang bagong pag-asa ang lumitaw. Ang pag-asang ito ay hindi umaasa sa mga recycled na pangako o pamilyar na mga personalidad sa pulitika. Isa itong pangitain—isang pangitain na pinagsasama ang hindi natitinag na determinasyon ni Gladys Vergara sa nasubok sa labanang pamumuno ni Mayor Benjamin Magalong. Sama-sama, nabuo nila ang MAGARA tandem—isang partnership na nakaugat sa progresibong pamamahala at walang humpay na paghahangad ng serbisyo publiko. Ang agenda ni Vergara ay isa sa pasulong na pag-iisip, na idinisenyo upang itulak ang Baguio sa isang kinabukasan kung saan ang pagbabago at pagpapanatili ay magkakasabay. Naiisip niya ang isang moderno, berdeng Baguio, ang matalinong imprastraktura, eco-friendly na urban planning, at mga pampublikong espasyong pinapagana ng solar. Sinusuportahan niya ang mga lokal na negosyo, pagsasanay sa trabaho, at mga sentro ng kabuhayan para sa mga kababaihan, matatanda, at PWD. Itinataguyod niya ang napapanatiling turismo, pangangalaga sa pamana, at pinalawak na access sa edukasyon, mga iskolarsip, at mga programa sa kabataan. Sa pangangalagang pangkalusugan, itinataguyod niya ang mga pinahusay na serbisyo, pangangalaga sa kalusugan ng isip, at sosyal na pabahay. Ang kanyang kampanyang “Glad to be Green” ay nakatuon sa renewable energy, waste management, at reforestation. Itinutulak niya ang Charter reform, digital governance, at barangay empowerment, at sinusuportahan ang jeepney modernization sa pamamagitan ng tulong pinansyal. Tinutugunan din ni Vergara ang mga karapatan sa lupa at mga proteksyon ng Katutubo, na nagtataguyod para sa mga nararapat na paghahabol at inklusibong pamamahala. Katabi niya si Mayor Magalong, isang lider na nagpakita ng katatagan at transparency noong panahon niya bilang alkalde. Dahil sa reputasyon ni Magalong sa paglaban sa katiwalian at pagsusulong ng mabuting pamamahala, siya ang perpektong katuwang ni Vergara, na tinitiyak na ang kanilang tandem ay magiging puwersa para sa pagbabago sa Baguio. Bagama’t hindi opisyal na tumatakbo bilang magka-tandem sina Magalong at Vergara ang kanilang ibinahaging pananaw para sa Baguio, ang kanilang paggalang sa isa’t isa, at ang kanilang malalim na pagmamahal para sa lungsod ay bumubuo ng isang bono na mas malakas kaysa sa anumang poster ng kampanya. Ito ay isang tahimik na alyansa na binuo sa layunin, hindi pulitika at sa likod ng alyansang ito ay isang bagay na mas makapangyarihan: isang kilusang pinasimulan ng boluntaryo, na pinasimulan ng adbokasiya na nagliliyab sa mga barangay ng Baguio. Kung wala ang karaniwang makinarya o kagalakan, ang kampanyang MAGARA ay nagkakaroon ng tunay na momentum—pinupuno ng mga mamamayang pagod na sa mga lumang pangako at inspirasyon ng mga bagong posibilidad. Ito ay hindi lamang isang kampanya. Isa itong tulak na pinapagana ng mga tao para sa matalino, inklusibo, at walang kompromisong pamumuno. Isang tahimik na rebolusyon na pinamumunuan ng mga boluntaryo, tagabuo ng komunidad, at pang-araw-araw na residente na naniniwalang mas karapat-dapat ang Baguio. Baguio deserves more than what the old guards can offer. Oras na para pumili ng mga pinunong mas nangangarap, naglilingkod nang mas mahusay, at namumuno nang mas matalino. Ang MAGARA vision ay hindi lamang isang kampanya—ito ay isang kilusan. At ito ay isang karapat-dapat na paniwalaan. (PR)

Globe Connectivity Trailblazer Bill Luz: Transforming cities through digital inclusion

Lifestyle

Guillermo “Bill” Luz has long been a catalyst for urban transformation, advocating for more intelligent and resilient cities where connectivity is a fundamental right, not a privilege. As Chairman of Liveable Cities Philippines and Chief Resilience Officer of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, Luz has championed digital access as a core component of sustainable urban development. His leadership and advocacy earned him Globe’s Connectivity Trailblazer Award, which recognizes individuals who push the boundaries of connectivity to bridge the digital divide and expand equitable internet access.  This award is part of the company’s inaugural Connectivity Champions program, which honors individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing digital inclusion. Luz was distinguished for his unwavering dedication to embedding technology in urban planning, ensuring digital-enabled government services, and strengthening connectivity in disaster-prone areas to facilitate emergency response. A former co-chairman of the National Competitiveness Council (2011-2018), Luz played an important role in forging partnerships between government agencies and the private sector to accelerate digital infrastructure development. His leadership in the Liveable Cities Program has encouraged cities to embrace technologies that improve service delivery, promote economic growth, and build resilient communities. For Luz, connectivity must be as accessible and essential as electricity and water. “Just in the same way that when you walk into a building or a home and occupy it, you can turn on your power and turn on your water, it would be great if we could turn on connectivity the same way. Just open an account, no additional wiring, no additional gadgets, we can connect straight to WiFi and to the internet,” he said. Luz has seen firsthand how digital infrastructure transforms cities and empowers communities. He underscores how integrating technology into services can improve efficiency and accessibility. “Online platforms make it easier to access government services, from processing permits to paying bills, saving time, and reducing bureaucracy. In healthcare, telemedicine and digital health records improve access to medical services and streamline patient care,” said Luz. Education also stands to gain significantly from digital adoption. “E-learning platforms expand opportunities for students. Public safety is enhanced through smart surveillance and emergency response systems that react faster and more effectively. Even utilities like water and electricity become more reliable with intelligent grids that monitor usage and prevent outages,” Luz shared. A Call for Collective Action Luz believes that bridging the digital divide requires true collaboration between government agencies, private companies, and civil society. “One of the key successes was fostering genuine collaboration and open dialogue between government agencies and private sector players. By bringing everyone to the table early, we were able to align on common goals and address challenges together,” he notes. He warned that failing to act today would widen the digital divide. “Connectivity is going to shape our future in ways we can’t fully imagine yet. It’s already changing how we work, learn, shop, and interact. As technology keeps evolving, more jobs, services, and even everyday activities will depend on reliable internet access. If we don’t prepare for that now, we risk widening the gap between those who have access and those who don’t. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in digital infrastructure today and ensure that people have the skills to use it,” he concludes. Through the Connectivity Trailblazer Award, Globe reaffirms its commitment to fostering digital inclusion and supporting leaders like Luz who are paving the way for a more connected and empowered nation.

BCDA,CAAP to power CRK’s growth through enhanced air traffic operations

Region 3

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) inked a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the operations and maintenance of the Clark International Airport’s (CRK) air traffic services (ATS) and communication, navigation and surveillance (CNS) facilities, in a bid to augment its air traffic management. Under the MOA, BCDA, as the owner of the facilities, will shoulder the costs related to the procurement of parts and upkeep of ancillary equipment. CAAP, meanwhile, will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of CRK’s ATS and CNS facilities, ensuring the safe and efficient management of air traffic in and out of the airport. “CAAP’s deep-seated expertise in airport management, proven track record in ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency, and national mandate make them the ideal steward for this critical phase of CRK’s development,” said BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang. He added that BCDA and CAAP are closely coordinating for the study of a second runway in anticipation of the influx of flights from NAIA and additional investments from the cargo carriers. CAAP Director General Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario said, “this agreement will ensure that our air traffic services, navigation system and equipment are maintained and operated at the highest standard of safety and efficiency.” BCDA Chairperson Hilario B. Paredes said that aside from the rising number of domestic and international flights in CRK, there has been a surge in e-commerce demand which is driving expansion of logistics and delivery services. “To meet this demand, more and more logistics companies have chosen the CRK as their hub banking on its location in central Luzon and its accessibility. With the continued surge in tourism and logistics demand, prioritizing aviation safety, convenience and efficiency has become more crucial.” In 2024, CRK saw a 29% rise in flight operations, totaling 19,221 with 47% domestic and 53% international flights. The agreement between CAAP and BCDA will help improve air travel safety and efficiency at CRK by providing modern air navigation services and maintaining up-to-date equipment. This will allow fewer delays and safer travel, while also helping airlines and airport staff work more efficiently. In January 2019, the BCDA entered a concession agreement with the Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp. (LIPAD) for the operation and maintenance of CRK, granting the retention of the operations and maintenance of the ATS and CNS facilities with the agency. Pursuant to its mandate under Republic Act 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act, the BCDA operates and maintains public utilities and exercises oversight functions over the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone. To ensure efficient and effective control and management of CRK, the BCDA is spearheading expansion projects such as the construction of a second runway and other airport infrastructure upgrades. This development is in line with BCDA’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly No. 9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure and No. 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities.      

Congressional bet Florido to ban the use of plastic, tarpaulin as campaign materials

Region 4

By Danny Estacio   GENERAL LUNA, Quezon – Quezon Third District also known as Bondoc Peninsula congressional bet and this town Mayor Erwin Matt Florido that his priority bill once he won this 2025 elections is to file a bill that would prohibit the use of tarpaulins and plastic banners as campaign materials by candidates, said during his campaign sorties. Florido said that apart from harming the environment, it is also unfair to all candidates. He added that in the present electoral system, wealthy candidates benefit because they can spread thousands of tarpaulins, often exceeding the campaign spending limits, and often falsifying their Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE). He said that while candidates who are short of funds almost do not see any campaign materials on the streets. Because of this, the system becomes biased in favor of the wealthy. Florido said, “Instead of tarpaulins and plastic banners, a series of debates should be made mandatory for local and national candidates.” The candidates’ forum is where the true capabilities and platforms of each candidate can be seen, and the number of tarpaulins is not the basis for people’s votes. Using plastic campaign materials and the impact of this waste on our environment should not be ignored either—several tons of plastic waste are accumulated every election. Florido urges “we must change the way we campaign: make the distribution of flyers and leaflets, the use of online platforms, and attending debates and forums the main methods. This way, all candidates—rich or poor—will have an equal fight, and our environment will also benefit.”

P2.9-M project,pinasinayaan sa Oriental Mindoro

Region 4

Dalawang proyektong pang imprastraktura mula sa Pamahalaang Panlalawigan na may kabuuang halagang P2.9 milyon ang magkasunod na pinasinayaan sa Brgy. Evangelista sa bayan ng Naujan, noong Abril 22. Pinangunahan ni Governor Humerlito “Bon,z” A. Dolor at kaniyang maybahay Hiyas Govinda Ramos-Dolor ang ribbon cutting ceremony ng P1.5-M halaga ng Day Care Center at P1.4-M halaga ng Multi-Purpose Building ng Farmers’ Association. Ang okasyon ay sinaksihan nina  Board Member Alely Casubuan-Tan, Board Member Fay Ilano-Navarro, dating Provincial Administrator Doc Hubbert Christopher A. Dolor at Barangay Captain Cesar Pedrozo. Taos-pusong pasasalamat ang ipinaabot ni Barangay Captain Pedrozo sa administrasyon ni Governor Bonz dahil sa patuloy at walang sawang pagkalinga at pagtugon sa pangangailangan ng kanilang barangay. “Sa pagkakataong ito ay ako naman ang magpapaabot ng pasasalamat sa ating mga magsasaka sa Brgy. Evangelista sapagkat dahil sa inyo may pagkain ang ating mga mamamayan”, ang mensahe ng Gobernador. Nakiisa rin sa naturang gawain ang ilang myembro ng Sangguniang Bayan ng Naujan at iba pang mga opisyal.

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