Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

BAGUIO CITY — Congressman Mauricio “Morris” G. Domogan, the representative of the Lone District of Baguio City, welcomed his election as chairperson of the House Special Committee on Bases Conversion. As a long time public servant, and also as a private citizen, of a district that has gone through complex relations with Bases Conversion Authority (BCDA), he considers his new role as an opportunity to explore legislative solutions that serve both the interests of Baguio and the goals of the government. As chairperson, he is tasked to lead the committee with the legislative oversight of the BCDA and the broader policy framework governing the conversion of former military lands to productive civilian purposes. The BCDA, created by Republic Act No. 7227 or the bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992, has the mandate to transform former U.S. military bases and other military lands into economic zones. BCDA is tasked to commercialize former military lands, attract investments, support modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and work with the host local government units on developmental activities. Specifically, his committee has the authority to scrutinize BCDA’s operations, including its programs, land dispositions, and relationships with the host communities. He is considered the right man for the job. As mayor of Baguio, he worked to create common ground, albeit tedious, with the BCDA to settle long-standing disputes on the lease terms of Camp John Hay, the city’s share of revenues, and the need to align development plans with Baguio’s environmental initiatives. Interestingly, many of the conditions he negotiated with the BCDA prior to the turnover of Camp John Hay – like the ðŸðŸµ ð—–ð—¼ð—»ð—±ð—¶ð˜ð—¶ð—¼ð—»ð—®ð—¹ð—¶ð˜ð—¶ð—²ð˜€ – remain in legal and bureaucratic limbo until the present day. With him at the helm of the committee, long simmering grievances among communities affected by the conversion of former military bases may now find a leader who has both the empathy and experience in addressing their concerns. Now that Congressman Mauricio G. Domogan takes on the national leadership role as chairperson of the House Special Committee on Bases Conversion, he will bring with him decades of institutional experience, a firsthand grasp of the issues, and a proven unwavering commitment to transparency, inclusivity and accountability. Under his leadership, there is renewed hope for the realization of an equitable base conversion – not just for Baguio, but for all affected host communities across the country.

‘Oplan Waras Plaka’, isinagawa ng DOTr-Cordillera

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

LA TRINIDAD,Benguet — Sa isang proactive na hakbang para i-streamline ang mga serbisyo ng gobyerno, ang Department of Transportation – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOTr-CAR) ay namahagi ng motorcycle license plates sa mga tauhan ng Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative (PRO CAR) bilang bahagi ng OPLAN WARAS PLAKA. Ang ceremonial distribution ay pinangunahan ni DOTr-CAR Regional Director Retired PBGen Glen Dumlao at PRO CAR Regional Director PBGen Ericson Dilag, na ginanap sa Masigasig Grandstand, Camp Major Bado Dangwa, noong Agosto 4. Sa programa ay 90 plaka ang ibinigay sa mga tauhan ng PNP at kanilang mga kaanak. Ang inisyatiba na ito ay umaayon sa panawagan ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. sa kanyang kamakailang State of the Nation Address (SONA) na humihimok sa mga ahensya na ilapit ang mga serbisyo sa publiko. Sa kanyang mensahe, pinatibay ni Dumlao ang pangako ng DOTr-CAR sa pagpapalawak ng pamamahagi ng plato sa pamamagitan ng paghahatid ng serbisyo sa mga kampo at istasyon ng pulisya, na tinitiyak ang mas mabilis, mas mahusay na serbisyo publiko. “Sa inyong lahat, tulungan po ninyo kami. Hindi namin ito magagawa nang mag-isa. Nagsisilbi kayong mga katuwang namin sa OPLAN WARAS PLAKA at bilang mahahalagang link sa komunidad,” he added. Ang diskarteng ito na hinimok ng komunidad, na sinusuportahan ng Department of Transportation – CAR, ay nag-aalis ng pangangailangan para sa mga indibidwal na mag-claim ng mga plates sa mga opisina ng DOTr, na makabuluhang nagpapahusay sa kaginhawahan at accessibility. Binibigyang-diin nito ang dedikasyon ng DOTr-CAR sa pagpapabuti ng paghahatid ng serbisyo sa pamamagitan ng pagpupulong sa mga mamamayan kung nasaan sila, pagpapasimple ng mga proseso, pagbabawas ng abala, at pagtaguyod sa misyon ng ahensya ng kahusayan, pagiging naa-access, at pakikiramay. Zaldy Comanda

Gov.Gambito takes bold stand for farmers amid palay price challenge

Uncategorized

Uncategorized / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday BAYOMBONG,Nueva Vizcaya,Philippines — In response to the challenges faced by farmers due to low palay prices, Nueva Vizcaya Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has vowed that the provincial government will take decisive action to alleviate their hardships. Gov. Gambito personally called for a dialogue yesterday(August 7) with farmers and other stakeholders in the agriculture sector to discuss potential solutions. During the dialogue, Gov. Gambito expressed his concern over the current situation, describing it as a “great injustice.” He stated, “What is happening to our farmers is a significant injustice, and my conscience cannot bear to stand by without taking action to help them.” “If the national government’s actions are insufficient to address the issues faced by our farmers, the provincial government will do everything possible to ease their suffering,” he added. Gov. Gambito highlighted the disparity between the low prices at which palay is purchased from farmers and the high prices at which rice is sold by traders, suggesting that there may be underlying issues in the processing chain. Discussions are already underway regarding funding for a Palay Processing Center, which will serve as a one-stop hub for farmers to process their harvest and sell directly to the provincial government at fair prices. “If the provincial government sets a good buying price, private traders will have no choice but to match it, otherwise they won’t have any palay to buy and sell. This will ensure our farmers are no longer forced to accept low prices for their hard work,” Gambito stressed. “There must be something wrong when palay is bought at a low price, but when it becomes rice, it is sold at a much higher price. Someone is profiting significantly at the expense of the farmers. There is an anomaly happening in between, and we want to uncover it so we can take the necessary steps to help our farmers,” the governor continued. Gov. Gambito emphasized the need for concrete actions rather than mere expressions of sympathy for the farmers’ plight. He expressed his determination to implement measures that will genuinely alleviate the farmers’ difficulties, as he finds it distressing to witness their dire conditions. Furthermore, Gov. Gambito warned that if any anomalies involving government officials are discovered, he will personally file charges against those responsible. The provincial government is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in addressing the issues affecting the agriculture sector. The governor’s plan aims to create a level playing field for Nueva Vizcaya’s agricultural sector and bring lasting benefits to local communities. “With these reforms, we are giving our farmers hope and a fighting chance,” Governor Gambito concluded. “Agriculture is the backbone of our province, and as governor, I am determined to see our farmers thrive.”

BM Imperial warns SP of legal risks in quarry permit endorsements

Region 5

Region 5 / Street Journal

LEGAZPI CITY, Albay, Philippines — Albay Board Member Harold Ong Imperial has warned the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) that endorsing quarry permit applications could expose the body to legal and administrative liability. In a privilege speech, Imperial argued that requiring SP endorsement or Certification of Non-Objection (CNO) for commercial sand and gravel (CSAG) permits violates executive authority under the Local Government Code. He stated that such actions conflict with Section 138 of RA 7160, which grants permit issuance exclusively to the provincial governor. Citing DILG issuances and legal opinions, Imperial explained that any requirement imposed by the SP amounts to an encroachment on executive powers. He also referenced Supreme Court rulings that declared similar legislative actions as ultra vires and therefore void. Imperial warned that the SP could face penalties under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act for interfering in functions reserved for the executive. He emphasized that this overreach could confuse investors, disrupt quarry operations, and weaken the governor’s ability to regulate the industry. To mitigate these risks, he proposed that the SP revoke any ordinance requiring its endorsement and cease accepting related requests. Imperial urged the body to focus on oversight functions, such as monitoring environmental compliance and regulating fees, without crossing into executive powers. He concluded by calling for lawful, accountable governance and for the SP to maintain its proper legislative role.

𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗮 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗥𝗥𝗠 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁 & 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗼 (𝗡𝗗𝗥𝗠) 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Office of Civil Defense-Cordillera Administrative Region (OCD-CAR) will be spearheading a 2-day Cordillera Regional DRRM Summit & Expo 2025 on August 11 to 12 at Ion Hotel, Baguio City. This is one of the biggest gatherings of DRRM practitioners, experts, decision-makers, and leaders in the Cordillera region. The activity aims to promote unity amongst government, private, and development/civil society sectors and empower them with proper knowledge and capacities in strengthening disaster resiliency efforts in the region while promoting people-centered/sensitive disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) and climate change adaptation and mitigation (CCAM) services and programs. In the summit, subject matter experts (SMEs) were invited to share latest DRRM updates, policies, good practices, and other opportunities. Here are the first two (2) speakers who will share their insights and expertise on topics, to wit: ENGR. CHARLES BRYAN C. CARAME, LDRRMO IV, Head, Baguio City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO): Engineering Solutions for Earthquake Preparedness: Good Practice on Infrastructure Development; and ATTY. NOEMI P. HUMILDE, Acting Assistant Regional Director, DBM-CAR: DBM-OCD Joint Circular No. 2025-01, “Implementing Guidelines on the Utilization of the Quick Response Fund (QRF) for FY 2025 GAA and Thereafter”. This year’s 37th NDRM theme, “ð—žð—¨ð— ð—œð—žð—œð—Ÿð—¢ð—¦ ð—½ð—®ð—¿ð—® ð˜€ð—® ð—žð—®ð—µð—®ð—»ð—±ð—®ð—®ð—», ð—žð—®ð—¹ð—¶ð—´ð˜ð—®ð˜€ð—®ð—», ð—®ð˜ ð—žð—®ð˜ð—®ð˜ð—®ð—´ð—®ð—»” affirms the Filipino people’s ongoing, collective commitment to disaster preparedness, safety and resilience–highlighting actions already being taken by individuals, communities, and institutions nationwide. More than a call to action, it reflects a dynamic, whole-of-nation approach that values continuous improvement, shared responsibility, and sustained collaboration across all sectors.

BCDA investments soar 64% to P53.5B, unlocking about 7,000 new jobs

Business

Business / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) recorded Php53.5 billion in approved investments during the first seven months of 2025, marking a 63.82 percent increase from the same period last year and solidifying BCDA’s position as one of the country’s top investment promotion agencies. These investments are expected to generate about 7,000 new jobs across BCDA-managed economic zones, particularly in New Clark City in Tarlac City and Camp John Hay in Baguio City, where investor activity significantly ramped up in the past months. BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said the strong performance reflects the growing investor confidence in BCDA’s master-planned developments. “These numbers represent opportunities for thousands of Filipinos and signal the private sector’s trust in our vision of building resilient, smart, and inclusive cities.” Major investors and partners that signed contracts with BCDA in the first seven months of the year are Science Park of the Philippines, Inc., Sta. Clara International–Saekyung Realty, and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for developments in New Clark City; as well as Ayala Land, Inc., Stern Real Estate, Top Taste and Trading, Inc., Amare La Cucina, and Prime Collective Corp. for developments in Camp John Hay. Compared to the first seven months of 2024, BCDA’s approved investments grew by 63.82%, while employment generation surged by 6.2%. This upward trajectory directly supports the Marcos Jr. administration’s eight-point socioeconomic agenda, particularly its goals of job creation, regional development, and improving the investment climate. By channeling investments beyond Metro Manila, BCDA plays a crucial role in decentralizing growth and building inclusive, future-ready communities across the Philippines. “As we drive progress in Central and Northern Luzon, we are proving that government-led development can attract private capital, unlock economic potential, and transform entire regions,” Bingcang said, adding that the state-run firm’s performance “underscores the growing momentum behind public-private partnerships in transforming government-owned developments into engines of economic growth.” BCDA, a government instrumentality vested with corporate powers under Republic Act 7227, remains a major force in creating economic opportunities in the country through its establishment of integrated developments, dynamic business centers, and vibrant communities.

BCDA fast-tracks Poro Point Seaport Modernization with PPP Center support

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LA UNION, Philippines– The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is advancing the long-term modernization of the San Fernando International Seaport in Poro Point in La Union, with critical support from the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center. The project secured provisional funding under the Project Development and Monitoring Facility (PDMF), a key step in transforming the terminal into a world-class gateway for Northern Luzon. Following the recent issuance of a technical assistance agreement, the BCDA and the PPP Center will jointly engage expert consultants to undertake the end-to-end preparation of the project under a PPP arrangement. This advisory package covers feasibility studies, market analysis, legal and financial structuring, PPP transaction support, and other related expenses, with an indicative budget of Php 74.90 million. The full redevelopment and modernization of the San Fernando International Seaport in Poro Point aims to transform the current bulk and break-bulk terminal into a world-class seaport equipped with modern port infrastructure and logistics systems. The project will enable full containerization, including container terminals and automated yard systems; install quay and yard cranes for faster cargo turnaround; expand storage and stacking areas; deploy advanced terminal operating systems, gate automation, and digital freight management; improve road and future rail connectivity for seamless cargo movement; as well as integrate gender, environmental, and climate safeguards into planning and design. “Northern Luzon has long been underserved by modern port infrastructure, limiting its ability to fully participate in global trade flows. This project is designed to change that by enabling full containerization, streamlining logistics, and anchoring regional industries to more competitive supply chains. It is a critical step in realizing Poro Point’s vision as a strategic economic gateway for Northern Luzon,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang. The project scope is divided into six phases, beginning with project inception and market assessment, followed by feasibility study and structuring, and assistance in securing government approvals. It will continue through the preparation of documents and PPP bidding support, and will conclude with post-contract signing advisory services. BCDA is eyeing to break ground on the Poro Point Seaport modernization by the second quarter of 2027, with full completion targeted by 2029. Once operational, the upgraded seaport will support regional industries in Pangasinan, La Union, and the Ilocos provinces as well as enhance Poro Point Freeport Zone’s appeal to logistics investors and export-oriented manufacturers here and abroad.

UB,UC eye BCT crown as top hitter graduates

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

By Pigeon Lobien BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — With Jasmynne Polon finishing her degree at the Baguio College of Technology last summer, two former powerhouses are eyeing a return atop the Baguio-Benguet Educational Athletic Association women’s volleyball podium. University of Baguio and the University of the Cordilleras are dead set to make a return atop the podium of one of the two most sought for crowns in the BBEAL which is set to open either in September or October with the Baguio Central University as host. “It appears that they have intensified their training,” quipped BCT coach Jun Nisperos as he weighs on how to offset the absence of the hard-hitting Sablan, Benguet product. “She is a big loss and the other schools have seen a chance to end our reign,” he added in the vernacular. UB appears to be banking on a former Arellano University player who helped the school in its National College Athletic Association campaigns the past two years. “She is now eligible to play after a one-year residency,” said Nisperos as he now banks on his veterans – setter Abigail Cunanan, middle Shery Estal and outside hitter Hazel Macapinlac. Cunanan, who has taken over the captain position from Polon, is at her best after three years with the school. Nisperos also lost multi-tasker Shanel Toledo, who played her last game last May and who was part of Team Tuba which lost to Sablan in the finals of the Cong. Eric Go Yap Women’s Volleyball League “She wanted to graduate but I asked her to stay to give BCT another fighting chance,” said the BBEAL most bemedaled active coach. With Estal and Macapinlac backing the setter, Nisperos is confident that the Lady Atoms could win their fourth straight title, the fourth longest streak in the BBEAL after Saint Louis University’s eight straight and UC’s six straight during the early until the late 2000s. Nisperos has won a total of nine titles, six with UB where he played as setter during his college days of which four are with the women’s team and two more for the mean’s squad where current UB coach Jomar Guansing, the men’s defending champion, was his player. Polon, Estal and Cunanan played for Sablan in the inaugural women’s V-league where they emerged champion with Polon winning most valuable player during the regular season and finals and where Estal and Cunanan took the middle and setter awards.

U.S provides additional P13.8-M to help flood-affected families rebuild homes

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines —The U.S. government is providing an additional Php13.8 million ($250,000) in funding to deliver emergency shelter assistance and hygiene kits to more than 3,000 families, or approximately 15,800 persons, remaining in evacuation centers in Rizal, Laguna, Bulacan, and Pampanga following severe flooding in July. This latest assistance brings the total amount of U.S. humanitarian support for disaster response efforts in the Philippines to Php27.6 million ($500,000). Through this new tranche of funding, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Philippines’ Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will distribute shelter-grade tarpaulins, shelter repair kits, and essential household supplies to families whose homes were damaged or destroyed. Each shelter repair kit contains basic construction tools and materials to help families begin rebuilding their homes. To promote health and sanitation and improve living conditions in evacuation centers, families will also receive hygiene kits containing soap, buckets, and cleaning supplies. In addition to distributing relief items, IOM will also monitor the condition of hygiene and sanitation facilities to ensure the safety and wellbeing of affected families. “Although flooding has subsided in most areas, thousands of families remaining in evacuation centers continue to face significant challenges,” U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Y. Robert Ewing said. “We are grateful to be working alongside our partners, including IOM, the World Food Programme (WFP), the Philippines’ Office of Civil Defense, and the DSWD, to help affected families recover and rebuild.” The U.S. government earlier provided Php13.8 million ($250,000) in funding that supported WFP in delivering 47,700 DSWD family food packs that benefitted over 200,000 persons across Northern and Central Luzon. U.S. military air assets, alongside the Armed Forces of the Philippines, also supported Philippine-led operations to deliver 6,300 DSWD food packs for 18,000 persons in Batanes.

Author name: Street Journal

𝗗𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗴𝗮𝗻 n𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻