Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

By Ruben Veloria Subic Bay Freeport – A ₱4.135-billion multi-modal logistics and transport hub will soon rise in this premier Freeport as the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Subic Bay Freeport Grain Terminal Services, Inc. (SBFGTSI) partnered for the construction of this project. Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato Lee III and SBFGTSI Executive Vice President Lester C. Valdes recently signed the lease contracts and amendment to the existing contracts at the SBMA Corporate Boardroom on May 28, 2025. According to Lee, the construction of the multi-modal logistics and transport hub will integrate sections of San Bernardino Road within the Subic Port District and parts of the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA). The committed investment for the proposed development of these areas includes P660-million for Lot 4, P1.8-billion for Lot 5, P801-million for Lot 6, P20-million for Lot 7, and P854-million for Lot 8. These developments include a petroleum tank farm, grain storage, an airport logistics hub, dry storage and warehouse facilities, cold storage areas, a commercial and hospitality hub for cruise ships, and a new wharf for ultra-large cruise ships. This is also seen to generate employment for 798 workers. “This is a huge step for Subic Bay Freeport as it reaches its goal to have a more modern air and seaport which are expected to boost the port’s capacity, increase competitiveness, and generate more revenue,” Lee said.

Gov. Hamor, ipinangako ang transpormasyon sa bayan ng Matnog

Region 5

Region 5 / Street Journal

Isang makasaysayang araw ng pag-ikot ang isinagawa ni Governor Boboy Hamor sa bayan ng Matnog, katuwang si Mayor-elect Bobet Lee Rodrigueza, kung saan ipinaabot nito ang kanyang pangako ng full transformation para sa naturang bayan. Sa harap ng mga residente at lokal na opisyal, iginiit ni Governor Hamor ang kanyang buong suporta sa bagong administrasyon sa Matnog sa pamumuno ni Rodrigueza. Ayon sa gobernador, panahon na upang maisaayos ang Matnog sa ilalim ng isang pamahalaang tunay na para sa bayan. Isa sa mga pangunahing layunin ng bagong administrasyon ay ang pag-operate ng Matnog Community College, na matagal nang inaasam ng mga kabataan sa bayan. Buong suporta rin ang ipinangako ni Governor Hamor sa plano ni Mayor-elect Rodrigueza na isaayos at buhayin muli ang pampublikong palengke, na sentro ng kabuhayan para sa maraming Matnoganon. “Kapag maayos ang edukasyon at ang palengke, tiyak na mas mapapalakas natin ang kabuhayan at kinabukasan ng Matnog,” ani Governor Boboy. Bukod sa mga pangunahing proyekto, magandang balita rin ang ibinahagi ng gobernador: may nakahandang pondo na para sa pagtatayo ng proyektong pabahay sa kahabaan ng boulevard na sumasakop sa mga barangay ng Tabunan at Caloocan. Ang proyektong ito ay inaasahang magbibigay ng disenteng tirahan sa mga Matnoganon na higit na nangangailangan. Sa pagtatapos ng kanyang pagbisita, muling iginiit ni Governor Boboy ang kahalagahan ng pagkakaisa at kooperasyon ng bawat Matnoganon upang maisakatuparan ang inaasam na pagbabago. “Matagal na po nating pinapangarap ang maayos na pamahalaan para sa Matnog. Ngayon, nasa ating mga kamay na ang katuparan nito. Ang kapitolyo ay narito upang umagapay, pero ang tunay na pagbabago ay magsisimula sa ating pagkakaisa,” dagdag pa ng gobernador. (Sorsogon PIO)

“STAN para sa palay: Suporta sa Tanim at Ani Network ng Quezon”

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

The Lucban Municipal Agriculture Office, headed by MA Sonia O. Catchuela, hosted an Orientation on the Palay Procurement Program at the Lucban Municipal Hall on May 28. The activity was an initiative of the Provincial Agriculture Office, under the leadership of Ana Clarissa S. Mariano, DVSM, EnP. The primary participants and beneficiaries of the program were members of the Samahan ng Magsasaka ng Palay sa Lucban, Quezon, a federation comprising rice farmers associations from 22 barangays in the municipality. The activity aimed to inform and prepare local farmers for effective participation in the National Food Authority’s (NFA) procurement programs. The orientation was facilitated by the Agri Enterprise Development and Marketing Division, led by Division Head Mr. Sherwin Deloraya and Marketing Unit Head Mr. Philip Aldwin Co. The session was conducted by Fernando Sanque, Assistant Branch Manager of NFA Lucena Quezon, along with NFA staff members and classificator. To qualify for participation in the NFA’s palay procurement program, farmer associations must meet several compliance and eligibility requirements. They are required to maintain an active bank account to facilitate all financial transactions. Additionally, these associations must be legally registered with either the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), or the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). Furthermore, the palay to be sold must be newly harvested and properly dried, free from any pest infestation, and must comply with the 14% moisture content requirement set by the NFA. Additionally, the orientation featured a discussion on the Palay Marketing Assistance Program for Legislators and Local Government Units (PALLGU). This proposed initiative, supported by the presence of Municipal Councilor Hon. Reynante Abuyan, Chair of the Committee on Agriculture, is designed to assist local farmers through enhanced pricing and LGU-facilitated procurement strategies. The activity concluded with the partial composite sampling of palay from selected members of the federation. The remaining samples are scheduled for delivery to the NFA office on May 30, 2025.

AboitizPower to expand A.I use in Luzon,Visayas thermal assets

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

By Ruben A. Veloria The Transition Business Group (TBG) of Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) announced a strategic initiative to expand the application of artificial intelligence (A.I.) and data analytics to its coal-fired power plants in Luzon and Visayas. The move continues AboitizPower’s “Project Arkanghel”, which modernizes the company’s existing conventional power plants into smart ones, helping ensure plant availability and reliability. Full implementation of the project will be rolled out in phases. “The first phase of Project Arkanghel is up and running, currently in one of our circulating fluidized bed plants in Mindanao,” said AboitizPower TBG President and COO Celso Caballero III, referring to the 300-megawatt Therma South, Inc. in Davao City. “We’re completing implementation in the Visayas this year and moving to Luzon next year,” he added, making the announcement during Schneider Electric’s Innovation Day celebration. To recall, the 340-megawatt Therma Visayas, Inc. in Toledo City, Cebu was also named as one of the pioneer models for Project Arkanghel, while a site for Luzon has yet to be identified. Project Arkanghel features establishing a Unified Operations Center, equipped with digital twin technologies, early warning and anomaly detection systems, and an “end-to-end” complete integration live asset health monitoring system. This Center enables engineers to anticipate potential issues and optimize plant operations. A.I.-based systems have the potential to help maximize the efficiency of plants, which means lower heat rates, better fuel efficiency, reduced outage days and longer intervals between planned outages. With its data-driven intelligence, these systems enable engineers to do bolder and more accurate decision-making. In developing Project Arkanghel, AboitizPower partnered with Thailand-based company REPCO NEX Industrial Solutions. The project also utilizes AVEVA Predictive Analytics, a Schneider Electric solution, to analyze historical data, recognize patterns, and provide early warning detection. In the same event, Caballero cited the unique challenges faced by the Philippine energy sector, including rapidly growing energy demand, vulnerability to approximately 20 typhoons annually, and the persistent need for affordable power. The integration of A.I. and data analytics into its baseload power plant operations intends to help address these challenges. “Power demand growth aside, if your plants are more available, you will be able to build fewer plants in order to cover for shortages,” Caballero explained. The expansion of Project Arkanghel to AboitizPower’s coal plants in Luzon and Visayas is a pragmatic step in the company’s balanced energy mix strategy. It acknowledges the immediate need for stable, dependable and cost-effective baseload power while renewable energy capacities continue to grow. In step with the country’s ambitions for its energy mix, AboitizPower aims to grow its portfolio of generation assets with renewables and selected baseload builds. The Company seeks to increase its renewable energy portfolio from indigenous energy sources such as solar, hydro, geothermal, and wind. To date, AboitizPower, together with its partners, offers the largest renewable energy portfolio in the Philippines based on installed capacity under its operational control.(SJP)

Spanish Ambassador sees investment prospects in Subic Freeport

Business

Business / Street Journal

Subic Bay Freeport – The Ambassador of Spain to the Philippines, His Excellency Miguel Ultray Delgado visited this premier Freeport and explored opportunities for more Spanish companies to invest here. During his visit to Subic Bay Freeport on May 22, 2025, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) officials, led by Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño welcomed Ambassador Delgado at the administration building. The Embassy’s Trade and Economic Counsellor Silvia Torices de la Varga, Market Analyst Jose Primo Santos Mendoza, Economic and Commercial Attache’ Pedro González Lendínez, and Metalyset CEO Jose Moreno Sanchez Perez were part of the delegation. “Subic Bay stands now as a beacon of economic potential, and if it can sustain this progress, it can become a premier logistics and trade hub in Southeast Asia,” Delgado said. Delgado added that as proof of its progress, Subic Bay Freeport was named as among the best Economic Zones in the world in the White Paper study that the Spanish company IDOM is preparing, together with FEMOZA (World Free and Special Economic Zones Federation). According to Delgado, their visit came at a perfect time as the Spanish government takes an interest in Subic with several Spanish firms from a variety of sectors. “We have brought here the best possible example with Mr. Moreno and Metalyset, and we expect to bring more in the following years,” he added. Metalyset is an international technical and industrial services company founded in 2008 in Spain by professionals with extensive experience in the metalworking industry. The company has been continuously expanding and growing, developing increasingly large-scale projects until its international expansion in 2015. Meanwhile, Chairman Aliño said that the visit is a testament to the strong ties between the Philippines and Spain, as one of the most historic sites in the Subic Bay Freeport is the Spanish Gate, the original gate of Subic. Also present during the delegation’s visit is Xantheng Subic International Corporation Assistant to the CEO, Best Chang, who provided a glimpse of the various Taiwanese investments in Subic Freeport, including the Tipo High-tech Eco Park (THEP) and the Subic Bay Gateway Park (SBGP). Chairman Aliño thanked the Spanish government for its unwavering support in helping develop the Philippines into an economic powerhouse in the sectors of renewable energy, sustainable tourism, and maritime education. Ambassador Delgado said, “By leveraging our shared history and mutual aspirations, we can foster a future that embraces innovation and inclusivity. Subic Bay, with its storied past and promising future, stands as a symbol of our enduring friendship and shared commitment to progress.”

Life Builder Fellowship to subsidize the SSS contributions of church volunteers

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

CALUMPIT, Bulacan – The Social Security System (SSS) and Life Builder Fellowship formally sealed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) under the Contribution Subsidy Provider Program (CSPP). SSS Vice President for Luzon Central 2 Division Gloria Corazon Andrada said that Life Builder Fellowship pledged to sponsor the monthly SSS contributions of an initial group of ten dedicated volunteers for a minimum of six months, with plans to extend the support to more volunteers in the future. “Many volunteers generously give their time and effort without any compensation,” Andrada said. “Through partnerships like this, we ensure that no one is left behind when it comes to social protection,” she added. Once the CSPP beneficiaries meet the qualifying conditions, they will now gain access to SSS benefits such as sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, death and funeral, including loan privileges such as salary and calamity loan. “Life Builder Fellowship’s effort reflects the church’s holistic mission—providing not only spiritual guidance but also the long-term financial stability of its members through active social security membership. Their strong dedication in advancing social welfare is truly commendable,” Andrada said. Life Builder Fellowship’s Head Pastor Jesus Bagasin Jr. expressed his support for the initiative, stating, “We believe that serving God should not come at the cost of one’s future. By taking responsibility for our volunteers’ SSS contributions, we are not only fostering their spiritual growth but also securing their financial future. This is our way of honoring those who have tirelessly served the church and the broader community,” Bagasin concluded. The CSPP is a key initiative of the SSS designed to extend social protection to informal workers, low-income earners, and other vulnerable sectors. The program works by engaging individuals, organizations, or institutions willing to subsidize contributions on behalf of these members.

SM Supermalls and ASP ink partnership for autism-inclusive employment

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines—SM Supermalls has partnered with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) to create work opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum and help them succeed in the retail industry. This collaboration reflects SM’s enduring commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across its operations. This newly inked partnership builds on that legacy, ensuring more meaningful, sustainable roles for talents on the spectrum within the SM ecosystem. SM Markets pioneered autism-inclusive hiring back in 2016. A ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was held at Book Nook in SM Podium, marking the beginning of an inspiring new chapter in inclusive employment. Book Nook, a flagship community learning hub under SM Cares, will soon welcome individuals on the spectrum as Book Nook concierges, bringing SM’s inclusive vision to life in a space that champions learning,connection, and belonging. “Book Nook was always meant to be a space where everyone feels they belong,” Ms. Shereen T. Sy shared. “Through this initiative, we bring that vision into sharper focus—creating not just a library, but a living story of inclusion, empowerment, and opportunity.” The Autism Society Philippines is excited about this collaboration,” said Ms. Mona Magno Veluz, Country Manager of ASP Autism Works. “We need more companies carving a space for Filipinos with disabilities in their businesses, allowing them to contribute and grow.” The partnership is part of SM Cares’ broader advocacy for inclusive employment, which aims to create work environments where people with disabilities are welcomed and celebrated for their unique strengths. “At SM, inclusion is more than a policy—it’s our purpose,” said Mr. Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “This partnership with ASP reaffirms our commitment to being a ‘Mall for All’—a place where everyone can succeed and feel they belong.” SM Supermalls continues to redefine inclusive, compassionate public spaces—not just in its malls but in communities throughout the Philippines. Its strategic partnership with the ASP ensures that they are guided in best practices for recruiting, developing, and retaining talents on the autism spectrum.

Maharlika Livelihood Complex, nasa pamamahala na ng city government

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY – Pamamahalaan na ng city government ang operasyon ng 50 years-old Maharlika Livelihood Complex kasunod ng pormal na turnover ceremony na ginanap sa Maharlika Lobby, noong Mayo 28. Ang Human Settlements Development Corporation (HSDC), sa ilalim ng agriculture department ang namahala sa pasilidad sa loob ng 50 taon, ay pormal na ibinalik ang kontrol sa lungsod. Sinabi ni Mayor Benjamin Magalong na layunin ng lungsod na baguhin ang istruktura sa isang modelo ng sustainable, livable, inclusive, at locally empowered development. Binabalangkas niya ang mga plano upang muling pasiglahin at i-maximize ang potensyal ng Maharlika Complex. Tinitiyak din ni Magalong sa mga nangungupahan at negosyo sa complex na ang lungsod ay nakatuon sa pagprotekta sa kanilang mga interes, lalo na ang pagpigil sa mga kasanayan sa subleasing. Tinitiyak din niya na isang serye ng mga diyalogo at pampublikong konsultasyon ang isasagawa upang matiyak na ang mga nangungupahan at ang publiko ay kasangkot sa pagpaplano ng mga pagpapaunlad at pagbabago sa hinaharap sa complex. Batay sa data na nakuha ng lungsod mula sa kasalukuyang pamamahala ng Maharlika, mayroong higit sa 600 mga negosyo na matatagpuan sa istraktura. Gayunpaman, sa 600 na mga negosyo, mayroong ilang mga establisyimento na walang kinakailangang business permit mula sa lungsod, kaya’t ang City Treasury Office ay gumagawa ng nararapat na aksyon upang mapilitan ang mga nasabing negosyo na makuha ang kanilang mga permit mula sa lungsod. Sinabi ni City Budget Officer Leticia O. Clemente na kasalukuyang ginagawa ng transition team ang mga polisiya at guidelines na pansamantalang ipatutupad sa pangangasiwa at pamamahala ng pasilidad habang hinihintay ang pagkumpleto ng nabanggit na plano upang magkaroon rin ng pagpapatuloy sa operasyon ng umiiral na negosyo na matatagpuan sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng gusali. Ang ceremonial turnover ay dinaluhan nina Mayor Magalong, incoming Congressman Mauricio Domogan, Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan, HSDC General Manager Gen. Robert M. Arevalo, at Agriculture Secretary Francisco Laurel, na kinakatawan ni Undersecretary Engr. Roger V. Navarro, kasama ang mga miyembro ng Sangguniang Panlungsod at iba pang opisyal ng lungsod. (ZC)

Yap eyeing counter charge after 6th and 7th DQ cases

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Benguet Representative Eric Go Yap is mulling to file charges against those involved in the multi – disqualification charges filed before the Commission on Election against him. To date, seven disqualification cases have been filed against Yap, the latest which was forwarded as of this writing, from petitioners Cresencio Akia, Danny S. Montes, Patricio A. Ananayo, Demetrio A. Martin, Ceasar D. Sotelo, Luis B. Santiago, Bronson B. Sacpa, Valentin C. Leo, Ramos S. Guivac, Eleazar B. Narciso, Marcial E. Flores, Leonero C. Joseph, and Janielyn A. Takingan. “Another disqualification case was filed against me today, to date, it’s the seventh already. Again, the petition questions my citizenship but with no proof to back up their claims,” Yap said. Despite garnering a lopsided 144,093 votes, Yap’s proclamation was put on hold earlier following an order from Comelec due to a disqualification case filed before the May 12 election. “As mentioned previously, the petitioners will face serious charges. Our lawyers are drafting the charges already against every single one of them. Masyadong malaking damage na yung ginagawa nila and nararapat lang siguro na may pananagutan din sila sa ginagawa nila because this is no longer ethical and professional, ito po ay mockery na, pambababoy na sa proseso. It’s important to note na itong mga kaso po ay filed after the election, after malaman na kung sino ang pinili ng mga tao,” added Yap. Yesterday, May 27, Yap also received the sixth disqualification case filed be petitioners Rufino Soriano III and Agustina Igualdo Peter, both residents of Buguias, Benguet, also questioning the citizenship of the re-elected solon. ” We know who’s behind all these but we will deal with that later. Kailangan lang muna sagutin ang mga ito otherwise, we risk not having a sitting Benguet Representative come July 1st. We will hurdle these and the petitioners will have their day in the court after,” Yap said. (PR)

Author name: Street Journal

₱4.135-B multi-modal logistics, transport hub to rise in Subic Freeport