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Magalong condemns character assassination

Baguio City, Inside Politics / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY – Mayor Benjamin Magalong has strongly denied that he pointed a gun at a businessman, instead he condemned the character assassination being carried out against him as the elections approached. “I never pointed a gun, Fred Go knows that,” Magalong said regarding the rumor that he pointed a gun at a businessman, in connection with the rumor that he owns big businesses in the city. It was learned that Magalong allegedly confronted Fred Go, the current owner of Good Taste, about why he did not tell the truth that he had no connection or that he (Magalong) was not the owner of Good Taste Restaurant. “I said I never transacted business with your family, all you have to tell the truth. He said he doesn’t want me to get involved in politics. I said it has nothing to do with politics, it is all about ethics and morals. I’m just showing that I’m fighting for you, look I’m under threat, that’s why my gun is here, look at my guns in front of me,” Magalong said. According to Magalong, he believes that this is all just character assassination and that he has been continuously being slandered since he took office as the city mayor. Magalong also said that they learned that someone hired several taxi drivers, including several senior citizens, to spread the word to the public every day that he owns the Parkway Condo and Medical Center; owns 200 taxi units and the Good Taste. The said business establishments have already made statements on their respective social media and denied any connection with the mayor. It was also learned that Magalong and Fred Go spoke again and both apologized to each other regarding the issue. The management of Good Taste has now issued a Notice to the Public stating that Magalong does not own the said popular and popular restaurant. Magalong also admitted that he now carries a gun, after confirming to him that he has a death threat. “I received a message from former Secretary Allen Capuyan, because I asked him for help on what this threat was to me. On February 19, he messaged me and said, Sir, be careful, the threat seems positive.” He said he was not afraid of the threat in any way to his life. “I was afraid of the safety of my family, what if they did something to me and hurt my family.” According to Magalong, he believes that his alleged opponent is trying to silence him in connection with his disclosure of his knowledge of government corruption. Magalong also stated that city hall employees have nothing to worry about, as security measures are in place inside and outside the building. By Zaldy Comanda

Aliño highlights Subic Bay’s Greenport vision in his 1st SOFA

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT—Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño recently delivered his first State of the Freeport Address (SOFA) at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) where he shared his accomplishments during the past year and moved on towards disclosing his aspiration of transforming Subic Bay into a Greenport city and a key player in the regional cruise industry. Speaking before the members and board of directors of the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC), officials from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), SBMA Directors, LGU officials, and other stakeholders, Aliño delivered the 17th SOFA in line with the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the SBFCC. In his address, Aliño revealed that the SBMA is positioning the SBF as a leader in sustainable port operations, highlighting the shore power system initiative that will reduce air pollution by 95%. “Our growth to be the Greenport city, driven by collaborative growth in business and investment, channels a new dimension to pursue our mandate. But this channel is not just the SBMA’s vision and mission, we will need your help, your partnership, and your commitment,” Alino stated. To support this vision, the SBMA is set to construct a dedicated cruise terminal within the next few years, further enhance its port facilities, and expand its international network through sister port agreements with the Port of San Diego in California, Osaka Port in Japan, and other key locations. He highlighted the SBMA’s success in regaining investors that have led to a surge in infrastructure investments, economic activities, and a plan to develop Subic Bay into a major regional cruise hub and stopover for cruise ships both as a home port and turnaround hub. Technological advancements to improve port navigation and security were also introduced with the installation of the country’s most advanced Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), which enhances real-time vessel monitoring and ensures safer, more efficient port operations. Aliño also cited the SBMA’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability into its development plans, ensuring that growth does not come at the expense of the country’s natural environment. He then outlined a series of projects aimed at boosting the Freeport’s position as a leading investment destination, including the development of new industrial parks, expansion of digital infrastructure to support the growing tech sector, and the establishment of Subic Bay as a hub for sustainable and green industries. Key accomplishments of the past year were reported, underscoring the SBMA’s dividend contribution to the national coffers which landed the agency in the top seven. “Aside from the dividends that we contribute to the national government, neighboring communities also get their share of revenues derived from corporate taxes. So I would like to thank our locators for paying your taxes because as you can see, here, your taxes go a long way especially in funding infrastructure projects in road rehabilitation and other development projects for our communities,” Alino said. He also discussed the expansion projects of two locators namely, Sanyo Denki and Nidec that are poised to generate a total of 6,500 jobs. Employment generation is a primary mandate of the agency that is anchored on the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) for 2023-2028 of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, to strengthen and build a good community here in Subic Bay by improving the quality of life of its stakeholders. “We hope that the plans and programs we have shared with you pave the way toward even more closer cooperation among us. Because in Subic, we care…for our shared future, and our shared aspiration of growth and progress for all,” he added. PHOTO CAPTION:

Green Guide: 7 Sustainable Habits to Practice at SM Supermalls

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

At SM Supermalls, going green is easy! Whether you’re shopping, dining, or simply strolling around, there are many ways to make eco-friendly choices. Here are seven simple habits to help reduce waste, conserve resources, and support sustainability during your next visit: Bring Your Own Reusable Bags Say no to plastic! Bring your own tote or cloth bag when shopping to reduce waste and keep plastic out of landfills. The best part? At SM Store and SM Supermarket, you won’t have to pay extra for a bag if you bring your own—saving money while saving the planet! Refill Your Water Bottle Stay hydrated the sustainable way! Instead of buying bottled water, bring your own tumbler and use the water refill stations at SM Foodcourt. This small switch helps cut down on plastic waste and is a cost-effective way to stay refreshed. Recycle at Designated Bins SM Supermalls provide recycling stations throughout the mall for paper, plastic, and even electronic waste. Disposing of items responsibly helps reduce landfill waste and supports a cleaner environment. Every small effort counts! Dispose of Old Electronic Devices Responsibly Have an old phone, charger, or other electronic accessories lying around? Look for the Electronic Devices and Accessories Disposal Bins at SM Cyberzone. These special bins ensure that e-waste is properly collected and recycled instead of ending up in landfills. Turn Trash into Cash SM Supermalls run a “Trash to Cash” recycling market where you can bring recyclable materials like paper, plastic, and metal in exchange for cash! This initiative promotes responsible waste disposal and gives recyclables a second life while rewarding your eco-friendly habits. Use E-Vehicle Charging Stations Driving an electric vehicle (EV)? SM Supermalls have E-Vehicle Charging Stations available for eco-conscious shoppers. Reduce your carbon footprint by switching to clean energy while you shop, dine, or run errands. Support Local and Sustainable Brands Check out pop-up markets and kiosks at SM Store that feature handmade, fair-trade, and upcycled products. Supporting local artisans and sustainable businesses helps reduce environmental impact and promotes ethical shopping practices. Which of these sustainable habits will you try on your next visit to SM Supermalls? Every small action contributes to a greener future—let’s shop smarter and greener together!

Suspek sa pagpatay sa Vice Mayor ng Cagayan, nadakip na

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

CAGAYAN — Nadakip na ng pulisya ang dalawang suspek na umano’y sangkot at nasa likod ng brutal na pagpatay kay Aparri Vice Mayor Rommel Alameda at sa lima nitong security escort sa bahagi ng Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya. Kinilala ang mga suspek na sina Alyas Ramon, lider ng isang Potential Private Armed Group (PPAGs), ng Brgy. Luna, Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija at si Alyas George, miyembro ng PPAGs, at residente ng Mallorca, San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija. Batay sa ekslusibong impormasyong nakalap ng CPIO-TeleRadyo, matapos ang isinagawang monitoring at beripikasyon sa kinaroroonan ng natukoy na mga suspek ay mabilis naman nilang isinilbi ang Warrant of Arrest laban sa mga ito. Ang Warrant of Arrest ay inilabas naman ng Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 28, Second Judicial Region, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya kung saan nahaharap ang mga ito sa anim na bilang ng kasong Murder at walang inirekomendang piyansa para sa kanilang pansamantalang Kalayaan. Ang matagumpay na pagkakadakip ng mga suspek ay pinangunahan ng Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), Cagayan Police Provincial Office (CPPO) Regional Intelligence Division 2 (RID2) katuwang ang pinagsanib na puwersa ng h CIDG Cagayan RFU2; RID-PRO3; PIU-Nueva Vizcaya PPO; PIU-Nueva Ecija PPO; RIU2; Aparri PS; NBI-Cagayan Valley Regional Office; Sta. Rosa Police Station, Nueva Ecija PPO; 1st PMFC Nueva Ecija; Bayombong Police Station, Nueva Vizcaya; at National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Region 2. Sa ngayon, tiniyak naman ng kapulisan na magpapatuloy pa ang paggulong ng imbestigasyon upang matukoy ang pagkakakilanlan ng posible pang kasabwat ng mga nahuling suspek sa karumaldumal na pagpatay. Matatandaang Pebrero 19, 2023 nang maiulat ang walang habas na pagpatay kay Vice Mayor Alameda kasama sina Abraham Ramos, Jr., John Duane Alameda, Alvin Abel, Ismael Nanay, Sr., Alexander Delos Angeles na tinaguriang Aparri 6.

Globe equips 3,000 students with digital safety lessons

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

Over 3,000 students from 15 schools across the country are now equipped with knowledge on digital safety, cybersecurity, and responsible AI use after taking part in Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) Learning Sessions in February, in line with the company’s long-going Safer Internet campaign. In keeping with its advocacy on responsible digital citizenship, Globe mobilized employee volunteers in the February rollout of DTP, in support of the Safer Internet Day theme “Digital Bayanihan, para Kabataang Ligtas at Protektado Online.” “Globe remains steadfast in its mission to create a secure and responsible digital space for Filipinos. By bringing DTP to the ground and educating the youth on cybersecurity and responsible AI use, we empower them to make informed choices and protect themselves online,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. For this year’s commemoration of Safer Internet Month, Globe collaborated with the National Coordination Center Against Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (NCC-OSAEC CSAEM), alongside key government agencies, non-government organizations, and child rights advocates. Among these were the Department of Education, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of the Interior and Local Government , Department of Justice, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Information Agency, the Philippine National Police, Save the Children, Stairway Foundation, Inc., The Asia Foundation – SaferKidsPH, UNICEF, and World Vision Philippines. Globe’s DTP Learning Sessions provided students with hands-on knowledge about cybersecurity, digital responsibility, and AI ethics. Participating institutions included: Computer Arts Technological College, Inc. Rosemont Hills Montessori College St. Vincent College Incorporated Bago City College Foundation University La Salle Ozamis University of Nueva Caceres Ramon Torres National High School Mapua Malayan Eastern Visayas State University Capiz National High School Saint Michael College of Caraga Benguet State University College of IT St. Paul University Philippines University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP) Beyond schools, Globe extended its training to select employees of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), reinforcing the importance of digital safety among public sector workers. Amplifying awareness through Team Globe of Good influencers Globe also strengthened its digital safety advocacy through its Globe of Good influencers, who shared engaging content on key online safety topics via social media, including: Recognizing and preventing Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) Cybersecurity best practices to safeguard personal information Proper SIM registration procedures to prevent fraud and unauthorized use Reporting spam and scam messages for a safer digital environment Reporting Channels for OSAEC and CSAEM in the Philippines If you suspect or witness cases of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) or Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Material (CSAEM), you may report them through the following channels: Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT): 1343 Action Line or report@iacat.gov.ph Philippine National Police – Women and Children Protection Center: (02) 8532-6690 Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD): 911 or 8888 National Bureau of Investigation – Anti-Human Trafficking Division: (02) 8525-4093 Globe continues to drive awareness and education efforts on digital safety, reinforcing its contribution to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) No. 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and No. 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through its sustained efforts, Globe hopes to bridge digital literacy gaps and protect communities from the rising threats of online exploitation.

CL journos launch ‘Save Sierra Madre, Save Lives, Save the Future’ photo exhibit/competition

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

BONGABON, Nueva Ecija—The Central Luzon Media-Citizen Council (CLMCC) and the Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) launched on Saturday here the “Save Sierra Madre, Save Lives, Save the Future” photo exhibit competition that aims to raise public awareness on the need for a concerted effort to help protect the Sierra Madre mountain ranges from devastation. Mel Ciriaco, from Nueva Ecija and one of the Immediate Past Presidents of the CLMA-Region 3 led a tree planting activity at the foot of the Sierra Madre mountain in Barangay Labi in this town before the official kick-off of the project. Central Luzon and adjacent regions have been very blessed because of the protection endowed by the Sierra Madre mountain ranges, the CLMCC and the CLMA said in a statement. In the most recent typhoons in 2024 and in the previous years, the bulk and the peaks of the pristine Sierra Madre that spans the whole Luzon Island had protected and saved residents from the whips of catastrophes. Ironically, this very own nature everyone in the region nest as sanctuary, particularly the indigenous people is preyed on by forces, and now faces high risk of devastation. Its forest while shielding the regions from calamities is being denuded and which has been the cause of flash floods and major flooding in the downstream provinces, towns and cities scoring lives, destroying properties and leaving us with an overall economic turmoil due primarily to agricultural and infrastructural damages, the statement also said. “As Central Luzon journalists, not only through the might of our pen that we can advocate on the plight to save and protect Sierra Madre. Through “Save Sierra Madre, Save Lives, Save the Future” Photo Exhibit/Competition, we, the Central Luzon Media-Citizen Council (CLMCC) and the Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) reinforce a strong campaign for public’s awareness of the needed protection and preservation of our sacred nature, God’s constant reminder of His love to mankind,” the statement further stated. The project, according to Carmela Reyes-Estrope, also aims to generate funds for the much-needed upliftment of the professional and accountability capabilities, including the social welfare needs of the media members of the CLMCC and the CLMA including other media people in the region. CLMCC together with other media-citizen councils in different regions and provinces in the country were established in 2022 through the Philippine Press Institute (PPI) and the International Media Support (IMS). The Media-Citizen Council is aimed to serve as a mediation and conciliation table between media members who are subjects of libel and cyberlibel complaints and the complaining aggrieved parties against their news articles and reports. Led by Atty. Jo Clemente of Tarlac Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) as CLMCC Chairman of the Board, other key officers of the councils have underwent a one week training for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) by the Office of the ADR of the Department of Justice in July last year. The council has as staple members other than the media the legal, who are members of the IBP, business, academe, youth and church and as primary partners, the local government units, the police and the military and other key sectors. Deng Pangilinan, current president of CLMA Region 3 said the photo competition runs from March 1-June 30, 2025 and is open to all amateur and professional, media and non-media members including students using DSLR, manual or mirrorless camera. Submission of entries is on July 16-30. The pre-selected winning entries will be displayed in a two-week exhibit from August 16-31 at SM San Fernando. Awarding will be on August 31 at SAM SSAN Fernando. First prize winner will receive P50,000, second prize P40,000, third prize P30,000, fourth prize P20,000 and fifth prize P10,000 and trophy. All media members except the organizing committees are disqualified from joining the competition. Caesar “Bong” Lacson, founding proponent of CLMA said the winning entries will also be featured in similar exhibits in other SM malls in Central and Northern Luzon where Sierra Madre mountain ranges also span. All interested parties are required to like and follow the social media pages of CLMA and CLMCC to also see the regular updates about the photo exhibit and competition and other activities of the groups.

Cordillera records 1.9-M tourists in 2024

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

By Rose Frejane Cruz BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Tourism-Cordillera reported that a total of 1,983,511 million tourists flocked in Cordillera, mostly in the Summer Capital in 2024, compared to 1,685,133 million tourists in 2023. Tourists arriving in Baguio City last year accounted for more than 1.56 million or 78 percent of the more than 1.98 million arrivals recorded in the region last year. Based on the data, tourist arrivals in Mountain Province came second with 151,183 while arrivals in Kalinga came third with 132,771. Benguet had 67,428 tourist arrivals followed by Ifugao – 48,0811 arrivals, Apayao – 21,611 arrivals and Abra – 2,225 arrivals. According to DOT Regional Director Jovita Ganongan said that tourist arrivals in the region last year recorded a 17.71 percent increase compared to the more than 1,683 tourist arrivals last year. According to him, all provinces recorded a significant increase in both foreign and domestic tourist arrivals which contributed to an infusion of about P10.7 billion into the regional economy. Under the updated data on visitor spending by the tourism department, each foreign visitor spends about P7,000 daily at their destination while a domestic tourist spends about P4,000 daily. She pointed out that the region is targeting the international market to help significantly increase foreign tourist arrivals in various tourist destinations to further enhance the local economy. Last year, foreign tourists arrived in the region, accounting for just over two percent of the total tourist arrivals reported while domestic tourist arrivals reached over 97 percent.

Baguio, ICanServe Foundation strengthening the fight against breast cancer

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

Mayor Benjamin Magalong signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ICanServe Foundation Inc. on Friday, March 21. This partnership aims to strengthen breast cancer awareness, early detection, and patient care in Baguio City by enhancing the training of medical and barangay health workers. Through this collaboration, the City Government of Baguio and ICanServe Foundation will collaborate to provide education and training on Clinical Breast Examination and Patient Navigation. These efforts will help ensure that breast cancer cases are detected early and that patients receive the necessary support and guidance throughout their treatment journey. With this initiative, Baguio City strengthens its commitment to accessible and proactive healthcare for its residents. By empowering health workers and increasing public awareness, the city moves closer to creating a future where breast cancer is diagnosed early and treated with urgency and compassion.

Nominations now open for the 7th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

The 7th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards (PSTA) is officially accepting nominations, covering eighteen (18) categories. Recognizing excellence in the ever-evolving sports tourism industry, the PSTA honors private and government enterprises that successfully integrate sports and tourism, contributing to economic growth and community development across the Philippines. This prestigious award serves as a platform to showcase the outstanding contributions of organizations and individuals in advancing sports tourism nationwide. Nominees will be judged for their events, efforts, programs, marketing and management skills in organizing sports events as well as sports destination promotions for the period from January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024. Nomination is Free. Organizations or Individuals may be nominated for multiple categories. Nomination close on April 30,2025. The 6th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards, held in 2024 celebrated individuals, organizations, and destinations that have significantly shaped and elevated the sports tourism industry. Their unwavering dedication and innovation continue to inspire excellence in the field. Last year’s distinguished awardees included Puerto Princesa City as Organizer of the Year (Government), The Bellevue Resort as Hotel of the Year, and Dumaguete City as Emerging Destination of the Year. The City of Manila, through the Rock & Roll Running Series, was recognized for Destination Marketing of the Year, while the XXII FIBA Congress by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas was named MICE Event of the Year. Robinsons Malls received the award for Mall Sports Venue of the Year, and Milo Marathon was honored as Event of the Year (Domestic). Other awardees included Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas as Sports Association of the Year, Go For Gold as Charity Event of the Year, and Cebu Pacific Air as Airline of the Year. Tour de Cebu was recognized as Adventure Event of the Year, and MVP Sports Foundation received the Event Sponsorship of the Year award. The Mall of Asia Arena was named Venue of the Year, while Sunrise Events Inc. (Ironman) won Organizer of the Year (Private). The FIBA World Cup Manila was honored as Event of the Year (International), and Subic Bay Freeport Zone was named Destination of the Year. Notable individual recognitions included William “Butch” Ramirez as Sports Tourism Personality of the Year (Government) and Wilfred Uytengsu as Sports Tourism Personality of the Year (Private), with Clark Freeport Zone being inducted into the Hall of Fame. The PSTA remains committed to recognizing the significant contributions of the sports tourism sector in driving economic progress and fostering community development. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their nominations and showcase their achievements in the industry. Interested participants can submit their nominations through the official nomination form: https://forms.gle/SoTmSq4YiCEHyBZv8.

Author name: Street Journal