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JHMC and PDEA join forces for a safer John Hay Community

Baguio City

In a proactive effort to enhance barangay security, John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) President and CEO Manjit T. Singh Reandi recently met with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Director General Atty. Isagani Nerez to discuss strategies for strengthening safety measures within the John Hay reservation communities. Sharing a deep connection to their hometown, Baguio City, the two leaders agreed to underline the necessity of monitoring community vulnerabilities and adopting effective security actions to protect local residents. JHMC, for its part, conducts around-the-clock patrols to enforce community safety measures and guidelines, ensuring a more secure Camp John Hay. This latest collaboration, however, seeks to go even further by creating opportunities for synchronized programs, enhanced support for barangay safety campaigns, and awareness initiatives shaped by both law enforcement agencies—all while maintaining a strong commitment to community development goals    

Globe brings 5G and fiber closer to more Filipino homes

NCR

Globe is stepping up its efforts to make reliable, high-speed internet accessible to more Filipino households. By focusing on both fiber and 5G technologies, the company is working to deliver affordable, flexible, and high-quality connectivity to communities across the country. “Connectivity is an enabler of progress,” said Carl Cruz, Globe’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “By expanding our network infrastructure, we are unlocking access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for millions of Filipinos. Globe remains steadfast in working with industry partners and the government to ensure inclusive digital access.” What makes GFiber Prepaid (GFP) really stand out is how well it fits into the everyday lives of users. A lot of SEC D households prefer services that don’t tie them down with contracts or require big upfront payments. GFP gets that, offering a simple plug-and-play setup, reloadable options, and easy management through the GlobeOne app. Most users top up every 3 to 4 weeks, which keeps them connected without breaking the bank. It’s all about giving them the flexibility they need while keeping costs manageable. This focus on customer satisfaction is clearly making an impact. GFP’s Net Promoter Score (NPS) is an impressive 67, way above the Telco Industry average of 31 (Transaction NPS). It just goes to show how much users value not only the speed but the whole prepaid fiber experience. Customers appreciate the convenience and control it offers, making it a top pick for more Filipino households. Globe is also expanding reload options through AMAX and ECPay. This means users have more ways to stay connected, no matter what their routine looks like. On top of fiber connectivity, Globe is also pushing its 5G WiFi through Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). This tech makes it possible to deliver fast, reliable internet in places where fiber just isn’t practical, especially in underserved communities. This approach not only helps cover areas lacking fiber connectivity but also offloads traffic from Globe’s mobile network, improving overall service quality. Looking ahead, Globe has laid out a clear plan for 2025: expand access, deepen engagement, and enhance the customer experience. This approach ensures that both new and long-time users enjoy better connectivity designed around their needs. Globe is also working to close the digital gap in remote areas. The goal is to bring fiber connectivity to 100 more Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), giving people in these communities access to digital services that were previously out of reach. By the end of 2025, Globe plans to increase the number of cell sites in these areas from 600 to 700, helping more Filipinos stay online and connected. By prioritizing customer-first innovations and focusing on both fiber and 5G technologies, Globe is committed to providing better connectivity for more Filipino families—helping them thrive in today’s digital landscape.

SBMA inaugurates ₱44M Upper Binictican bridge 

Region 3

Subic Bay Freeport – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has inaugurated and opened the ₱44-million new Upper Binictican Bridge at the Binictican Area of this premier Freeport on May 15, 2025. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the new Upper Binictican Bridge replaced the old structure that was built by the Americans in the 1960s when this Freeport was still a US Naval Base. Aliño added that the old bridge has already served motorists in this Freeport for more than 60 years now and should be replaced since it connects the residential area of Binictican to the rest of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. He further said that the SBMA Engineering Department and maintenance management company A. C. Ong conducted a structural investigation that revealed the old bridge was already in the advanced stage of deterioration due to long-term structural damage. A few years back, the SBMA and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the construction of a new bridge that will replace the old one. The SBMA’s Office of the Deputy Administrator (ODA) for Public Works and Technical Services Group (PWTSG) led the construction of the new bridge that was designed and supervised by the DPWH Bataan 1st District Engineering Office (DEO). PWTSG Deputy Administrator Engr. Marco Estabillo said that the construction commenced on May 8, 2024, and was foreseen to be completed by May 15, 2025. Estabillo further said that the new bridge design is a reinforced concrete deck girder (RCDG) bridge with a single span and two lanes. The bridge, meanwhile, will be supported by reinforced concrete abutments and a mat/ spread foundation due to the rocky/ boulder nature of the earth. The old bridge measured 17.30m in length, 7.30m in width with no sidewalks. Meanwhile, the new bridge, Estabillo added, is 22.80m in length, 7.32m in width with 1.11m sidewalks on both sides, and is now higher by 1.20 meters to prevent log clogging and higher river water capacity absorption during typhoons. “Transition roads will be regraded and repaved with six meters of Portland cement with asphalt overlay and extensions,” he said. The new bridge will now allow tourists to visit the Pamulaklakin Trail, one of the most visited areas of the Subic Bay Freeport since it is part of the Pastolan Ayta’s facility that allows tourists to experience outdoor life while learning survival skills from the Ayta instructors. (30)                  

SM Supermalls dominates 2025 APAC Stevie Awards

Lifestyle

SM Supermalls emerged victorious at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards, collecting an impressive array of accolades, including the prestigious Grand Stevie Award for Most Honored Organization of the Year — a historic recognition shared by SM Supermalls, SM Foundation, and SM Retail under the SM Group. With a total of 42 award points, the SM Group stood tall as the most celebrated organization across Asia-Pacific this year, solidifying its reputation as a trailblazer in innovation, sustainability, and meaningful community impact. SM Supermalls’ 12 Stevie Awards were formally received during the APAC Stevie Awards Banquet held on May 13 at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul, South Korea, by SM Supermalls’ Joaquin L. San Agustin, EVP for Marketing; Jefferson S. Suarez, Senior AVP for North Luzon Marketing; and, Richard A. Caluyo AVP for SM Cares, SM Family Entertainment Center, and Sports & Leisure Center Marketing. 𝗔 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 Leading with the Gold recognition was the SM Art Market, winning the Award for Innovation in the Use of Events. This initiative not only redefined the retail experience but also spotlighted Filipino creativity, turning mall spaces into vibrant hubs for local artisans and cultural expression. Garnering Silver awards, multiple programs across SM Malls captured attention for their impactful and purpose-driven initiatives: AweSM Visayas Festivals – Award for Innovation in Community Relations or Public Service Communications SM Davao’s Vibrant Kadayawan – Award for Innovation in the Use of Events SM Cares’ Energy Efficiency Journey – Saving Energy SM Cares’ Book Nook – Award for Innovation in Community Relations or Public Service Communications SM Cares’ Innovative CSR Impact – Innovative Achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility SM Job Fairs – Award for Innovation in Community Relations or Public Service Communications SM Megamall’s Maki-Holo Christmas Spectacle – Award for Innovation in Entertainment Events SM Prime continued its winning streak with Bronze recognitions for programs that showcased the group’s diversity in storytelling and outreach: SM 100 Days of Joy – Award for Innovation in Content Marketing/Branded Editorial SM Baguio’s Community Initiatives – Award for Innovation in Community Service or Public Relations SM Cares’ Global Youth Summit – Climate Protection and Sustainability Campaign of the Year SM Aura’s Sinag at Saya – Award for Innovation in the Use of Events “This recognition is a celebration of how we at SM strive to innovate and evolve to serve the ever-changing needs of our customers,” said San Agustin. “We dedicate this honor to every team member, partner, and community who make our mission of service come to life.” The Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards are the only business awards program that recognizes innovation in the workplace across the Asia-Pacific region. In 2025, the awards honored organizations from 23 markets, including Australia, China, India, Japan, the Philippines, and Vietnam, among others. With its 2025 wins, SM Supermalls reaffirms its standing not only as a retail leader, but also as a force for positive change in the Asia-Pacific region, fueled by innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering passion to uplift lives.

Vote-Buying sa Pilipinas tinawag na ‘Endemic’

Region 2

Maituturing na raw na “endemic” ang vote-buying sa Pilipinas matapos ang National and Local Elections (NLE) 2025, ayon sa European Union (EU) Election Observation Mission. Sa ginawang pananalaksik ng grupo na pinangunahan ng kanilang deputy chief observer na si Manuel Sanchez de Nogues, kabilang sa mga lugar sa bansa na naging talamak ang vote-buying sa nakalipas na eleksyon ang mga probinsiya ng Davao Oriental, Bohol, La Union, Palawan, Quezon, Siquijor, Zamboanga City, at Zamboanga del Sur provinces. Ayon pa kay de Nogues, marami aniya silang natanggap na report na pamimigay ng pera, ayuda o goods tulad ng pagkain na maituturing na vote-buying sa panahon ng eleksyon. Itinuturing naman ang matinding kahirapan sa bansa na siyang ugat ng malawakang pagbili ng boto sa Pilipinas. Bukod sa talamak na vote-buying, na obserbahan din ng European Union Election Observation Mission na ang mga pamilyang nasa politika ang nangingibabaw sa lokal na halalan. Pinuri naman ng European Union (EU) Election Observation Mission ang mataas na voter turnout sa bansa sa naganap na eleksyon 2025. (Reden Delos Santos)

Dalawang pulis patay sa kidlat

Region 4

Labis na ikinalungkot ng Police Regional Office-MIMAROPA ang pagkamatay ng dalawang dedikadong miyembro ng Regional Mobile Force Battalion na sina Pat Laudelino Samarita Lomio II at Pat Ruzzel Jay Ferrer Fontarum, na kapuwa na tinamaan ng kidlat sa malakas na pag-ulan habang isinasagawa ang kanilang mga tungkulin sa loob ng kampo sa Naujan, Oriental Mindoro noong gabi ng Mayo 14. Sa kabila ng agarang tulong at CPR na ibinigay ng mga kapwa opisyal, pareho silang idineklara na dead on arrival sa Mindoro Medical Center. Sa pahayag ni PBrig.Gen.Quesada, regional director, ang kanilang kalunos-lunos na pagkawala ay isang masakit na paalala ng mga tahimik na panganib na kinakaharap ng kapulisan sa paglilingkod sa bayan. “Sa ngalan ng PRO MIMAROPA, ipinaaabot namin ang aming lubos na pakikiramay sa kanilang mga pamilya at mga mahal sa buhay. Kami ay nakatuon sa pagbibigay ng buong tulong, benepisyo, at karangalan upang matiyak na ang kanilang mga sakripisyo ay nararapat na kinikilala at ang kanilang mga pamilya ay sinusuportahan sa mahirap na panahong ito.” Aniya, ang kanilang dedikasyon at katapangan ay hindi malilimutan. “Nawa’y magpahinga sila sa walang hanggang kapayapaan.”

3 metric-tons mahigpit na ipinapatupad pagdaan sa San Juanico bridge

Vis-Min

Mahigpit na ipinapatupad ngayon ng Department of Public Works and Highwat at iba pang mga law enforcement agencies ang three metric- tons vehicle weight limit  sa pagdaan sa San Juanico Bridge sa Samar, dahil sa natukoy na ‘structural vulnerabilities’ sa ilang bahagi ng tulay. Light vehicles lamang ang pinahihintulutang tumawid, na may kabuuang bigat na hindi lalampas sa 3 Metric-Tons. Bagamat hindi sakop ng jurisdiction ng Tacloban City ang pamamahala at maintenance sa San Juanico Bridge, aktibong nakikiisa rin ang ilang concerned departments sa pagpapanatili ng kaayusan sa trapiko at pag-alalay sa mga biyaherong naaabala ng kasalukuyang sitwasyon sa tulay. Nasa area na ang CGSO para magtayo ng mga Assistance centers, kasama ang TOMECO at Tacloban City Police Office para tumulong sa daloy trapiko at pag-alalay sa mga stranded na byahero. Ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Tacloban City, sa pamumuno ni Mayor Alfred Romualdez ay humihingi ng paumanhin at pag-unawa sa lahat ng mga kababayan na naabala. Pinayuhan ang mga biyaher,lalong-lalo na ang mga trucking na limitahan ang kargada upang hindi maabala sa pagbibiyahe padaan ng San Juanico Bridge.  

A Taste of Italy: Grazie Bistro open at Grand Summit Hotel General Santos

Business

Grand Summit Hotel General Santos proudly announces the grand opening of Grazie Bistro, a specialty Italian dining concept that brings the flavors of Italy to the heart of Mindanao. This casual yet refined bistro offers guests an authentic Italian experience — from handmade pasta and pizzas to rich desserts, creamy gelato, and thoughtfully selected wines. “The idea for Grazie Bistro was born from a desire to bring something fresh and distinctive to General Santos,” said Mr. Jesse Raymond Chua, General Manager of Grand Summit Hotel General Santos. “Italian cuisine, with its warmth, artistry, and timeless appeal, felt like the perfect fit. It’s a celebration of flavor and culture”. Grazie Bistro features an open theater-style kitchen — a signature element that sets it apart from other dining venues in the city. Guest are not only served the rich, comforting flavors of Italy, but are also invited to witness the artistry behind each dish. As chefs prepare meals from scratch in full view, diners enjoy a multisensory experience that brings energy, transparency, and a deeper connection to the craft of cooking. Must-try highlights include Grazie’s signature handmade pizza and pasta, crafted using traditional methods and only the finest ingredients. Cap off your meal with a scoop of authentic Italian gelato, or pair your dish with a glass of Italian wine or a refreshing aperitivo for a truly indulgent experience. The name Grazie — which literally means “thank you” — reflects the bistro’s brand promise: to promote a positive environment by appreciating the joy of food in every bite. This spirit of gratitude transcends the plate, as we thank each guest for choosing to dine with us. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your love for Italian cuisine, Grazie Bistro promises a grand dining experience where tradition, passion, and gratitude come together. For reservations or inquiries, please visit https://grandsummithotels.ph, call +63 998 888 7788, or email us at reservations@summithotels.ph. About Grand Summit General Santos: Grand Summit Hotel General Santos is an upscale hotel under Robinsons Hotels & Resorts, offering elevated accommodations and curated experiences for both business and leisure travelers. Strategically located in the heart of General Santos City, the hotel features contemporary guest rooms, versatile function spaces, a grand ballroom, and exceptional dining concepts—all designed to provide warmth, comfort, and genuine hospitality.

Ret.US Navy educates SBF stakeholders on Box Jellyfish Awareness and Treatment

Region 3

Subic Bay Freeport – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Public Health and Safety Group (PHSD) has tapped the expertise of United States Navy retired Chief Petty Officer Michael Walls to educate stakeholders here on Box Jellyfish Awareness and Treatment. Around one hundred participants, mostly SBMA employees, locators, residents, guests, and other SBF stakeholders, Association of Ambulance Operators in Olongapo and Zambales, and other medical responders, especially locators in the beach resort business, took part in the seminar held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) on May 9, 2025 . According to Walls, they are expecting increased presence of box jellyfish infestation compared to previous years. “Stings from the box jellyfish can be fatal, especially in children,” Walls said. He expounded further by imparting ways on how to avoid incidents of jellyfish sting, as well as immediate treatment when subjected to such. Walls added that the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman-College of Science cited that the box jellyfish is known for its distinctive box-like appearance and potent venom that can cause potentially systemic effects, which if not immediately addressed, could be fatal. The Chironex yamaguchii, a dangerous species of box jellyfish known to originate from Japan, is also present in Philippine waters, as well as  in the Indo-Pacific and Western Pacific regions. Their tentacles can inflict extreme pain, cause skin injuries with welts, and even trigger heart attacks and death. The Box Jellyfish Awareness and Treatment seminar, which aims to promote critical knowledge that could help save lives in case of a box jellyfish sting, is part of the SBMA’s Public Health and Safety Group’s Health and Wellness Caravan.        

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