Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

By Rachel Magday SOLANO,Nueva Vizcaya,Philippines — Mayor Philip A. Dacayo of Solano,Nueva Vizcaya has outlined a vision for the municipality’s growth and development as it works toward achieving cityhood. In a recent interview, Dacayo emphasized that while Solano is not yet a city, the local government is committed to providing services and benefits comparable to those of a city. “We may not be a city, but we will strive hard to deliver the services and privileges that a city can provide to its constituents. City is just a name or a branding,” he stated, reflecting his determination to enhance the community’s well-being. Solano is making significant progress in meeting the requirements for cityhood. The municipality has generated approximately 300 million pesos in local income and meets the land area criteria. However, Dacayo acknowledged that the population requirement remains a challenge. He clarified that, according to current laws, meeting either the population or income criteria is sufficient for cityhood eligibility. Dacayo also took pride in announcing that Solano is the only municipality in the province that is ISO certified in Quality Management System(QMS). This achievement underscores the local government’s commitment to maintaining high standards in service delivery and operational efficiency. Key investments are on the horizon for Solano, including the upcoming Camella subdivision, which is set to begin pre-selling in the coming months. Additionally, discussions are ongoing with Robinsons for the construction of a new mall, which is expected to create jobs and stimulate local economic growth. Dacayo highlighted the importance of activating Bagabag Airport, a priority for Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, which he believes will enhance connectivity and open up new opportunities for the municipality. He is also collaborating with Cagayan Valley Regional Tourism Council (CVRTC)Chair Ruth R. Padilla to work on various infrastructure projects for Solano. Acknowledging her connections, Dacayo believes that her support will be instrumental in securing funding for these initiatives. Plans are underway for a new four-story municipal or city hall, with an estimated budget of 400 to 500 million pesos. Congressman Timothy Joseph E. Cayton has pledged an initial fund of 150 million pesos to support the first phase of this project. Furthermore, a central terminal is planned to accommodate various national government offices, positioning Solano as an institutional center. As Solano moves forward in its development efforts, Mayor Dacayo emphasizes that the people of Solano deserve the best. He believes that the community should live up to its reputation as the best of Nueva Vizcaya, striving for excellence in services and opportunities for the Solanoans.

Cordillera cops responds to 225 incidents, apprehends 41 persons

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

CAMP DANGWA, Benguet,Philippines — The Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO CAR) successfully responded to a total of 225 incidents and apprehended 41 individuals between June 3 and July 30, 2025. This accomplishment is credited to their impressive five-minute average response time, which highlights the police force’s unwavering commitment to public safety. The majority of the police responses—198 in total—were to critical incidents such as vehicular accidents and cases of reckless imprudence resulting in physical injuries or damage to property. The remaining 27 operations led to the warrantless apprehension of 41 individuals. Among the different city and provincial offices, the Benguet Police Provincial Office (PPO) conducted the most operations with 95, leading to 17 arrests. The Baguio City Police Office followed with 60 operations and 14 arrests. The Abra PPO conducted 41 operations with two arrests, while the Kalinga PPO had 12 operations and one arrest. The Apayao PPO recorded 10 operations with five arrests, the Ifugao PPO had five operations with two arrests, and the Mountain Province PPO conducted two operations. These accomplishments highlights the effectiveness of PRO CAR’s five-minute response and its unwavering commitment to public safety. It also aligns with the call of Chief PNP, PGen Nicolas D Torre III, for a swift and responsive public service. PRO CAR cops remain prepared to respond swiftly to emergencies and critical incidents, consistently aiming to arrive at the scene within five minutes of a 911 call—upholding their mission to serve and protect the community.

Barangay AZKCO Nutrition Worker Marilyn Barren (right), awarded at Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Scholar (BNS(. At left photo, PB Jefferson Cheng awarded as 3rd place Outstanding in Barangay Nutrution.

51st Nutrition Month Awardees Feted

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY – With the theme “Food at Nutrition Security Maging Priority! Sapat na Pagkain Karapatan Natin! of the 51st Nutrition month celebration, the Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS), Outstanding Barangay in Nutrition and Service Awardees were honored during the culminating program and awarding ceremonies at the Pedro Dumol Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) hall, on August 1. Executive Assistant Leandro Tabilog delivered Mayor Benjamin Magalong’s inspirational message wherein he expressed gratitude to the nutrition workers for alleviating the difficulties of the barangay constituents, even in times of inclement weather. The nutrition workers’ support most especially to the vulnerable: children, elderly and those with limited access to healthy food is well-appreciated, the mayor said. The cooperation, vigilance, and disaster preparedness is a reflection of a deeper spirit of service which spurs us all, to ensure that everyone has access to healthy food and clean water and safety year-round, the mayor ended. Outstanding BNS and their respective barangays are the following: Joana Caslangen of Atok Trail; Jonalyn Cadiay of Lokan Liwanag; Rowena Asperin of Burnham-Legarda; Demetria Padadac of Kias; Cayonila Esteban of Country Club; Merlinda Pulas of Andres Bonifacio; Marilyn Barren of AZCKO; Genaline Henson of Balsigan; Elizabeth Elefante of Upper Gen. Luna; Monalisa Bansan of Green Water Village; Evangeline Sherwin of Happy Hallow; Agnes Paleyan of Kias; Carla Castaneda of Upper Market Subdivision; Jocelyn Arroy of Pinsao Pilot; Melanie Chadsi-ing of Lower Quirino hill and Jovee Calsiman of Sto. Rosario. The five Outstanding Barangays in Nutrition with their respective Punong Barangays are: Atok Trail, PB Federico Codley; Aurora Hill Proper;PB May Gonzales; AZKCO, PB Jefferson Cheng; Dominican-Mirador, PB Carol Domogan and Victoria Village, PB Roger Balicha. Other awardees or finalist are Alfonso Tabora, PB Virginia Pugong; Andres Bonifacio, PB Janet Tiamzon; South Central Aurora Hill PB Levy Lloyd Orcales; Camdas PB Janet Floresca; City Camp Proper, PB Jaime Bustarde; Country Club, PB Nestor Almag; Dizon Subdivision, PB William Haight; Holy Ghost Proper, PB Murphy Maspil; Irisan, PB Arthur Carlos; Kayang Extension, PB Nerissa Bayan; Legarda-Burnham PB Teodoro Castro; Loakan-Liwanag, PB Abraham Urmaza; Lourdes Subdivision Proper, PB Rowena Gelisanga; Magsaysay Private road, Debbie Banagui; Outloook Drive, PB Isidro Aquino; Rizal Monument, PB Arnaldo Miranda: Lower Rock Quarry, PB Silvino Comina Jr,; Upper Rock Quarry, PB Joey David; San Antonio Village, PB Nicanor Nialla; SLU-SVP, PB Imelda Tibalao and Upper Quezon Hill, PB Dinah Campos. The outstanding Barangays in Nutrition awardees were evaluated and selected by the City Nutrition Evaluation Team (CNET) City Veterinary and Agriculture Office (CVAO) Supervising Agriculturist Marceline Tabelin, Department of Education (Dep-Ed) Nurse Cynthia Cadawan, and Dr. Judith Maingpis Tacudog of the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) Baguio Chapter. The Service awardees are; Merlyn Cacay of Irisan; Elizabeth Elefante of Upper General Luna; Christine Godoy of Scout Barrio; Gina Rose Lacatango of Pinget; Noemi Santillan of Sta. Scholastica; Eusebia Calderon of Pinsao Proper; Caria Castaneda of Upper Market; Beatriz Rita Dagul of Balsigan; Natividad Ramos of Asin Road; Mercedes Sito of Leonila Hill; Jovee Calsiman of Santo Rosario Valley and Flordeliza Comising of Central Guisad. The best community gardens were also awarded, as with the nutri-vlog challenge winners. As judged by CVAO Supervising Agriculturist Tabelin, Dep-Ed Nurse Cadawan, PDA officer Dr. Tacudog and City Social Welfare and Development Office Day Care worker Perla Rimaros; the Best Community Vegetable Gardens are from the barangays of Bakakeng Central, Camp 7, Happy Hollow, San Antonio, Atok Trail and Burnham Legarda. The Nutri-Vlog winners are from the districts of Campo Filipino, City Camp, Atab, Lucban and Loakan-Atok Trail. All health district personnel with their respective barangay officials attended, with the presence of Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda, Committee Chair on Social Services, Women and Urban Poor; and Councilor Elmer Datuin, Committee chair on Health and Sanitation, Ecology and Environmental Protection. – jgfianza, with reports from CHSO, Nutrition Division

KALINGA SPORTS FEATURE: When a Small Gym Dreamer Made It to the MMA International Cage

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

KALINGA, Philippines — From Kalinga to International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), Alexander “The Dreamer” Tagure, Jr. proved that greatness doesn’t have to come from big cities or elite training camps. Sometimes, it also rises humble from the mountains, shaped by grit, discipline, and the fueling belief of a community. Representing the Philippines at the 2025 IMMAF World Youth MMA Championships in Abu Dhabi, Alexander stepped onto that world stage carrying not just his nation’s flag, but also the hopes of every young athlete training in small gyms wherever around the country. Hailing from Tribu Banwar, a small yet determined gym grounded in Tabuk City, Kalinga, known for shaping fighters with heart and discipline, Alexander’s journey was not really paved with privilege. His debut on the international stage was more than a personal milestone. It was a culmination of years of steady persistence, long hours of training after school, sessions with fellow young MMA dreamers, a deep trust in his coaches, and a promising journey they committed to. His participation in the IMMAF marked a proud moment not just for his province, but also for the broader community of local MMA athletes and enthusiasts who had followed and supported his progress from amateur bouts to national qualifiers. When the IMMAF Championships finally called, it felt like all their dreams were stepping into that cage with him. Alexander made a strong impression in his first bout, a close split decision that was all the more notable given it was his international debut. In the second fight, he was landing cleaner shots and looked poised for a win, according to Coach Erwin Tagure, but an armbar attempt from his opponent caught him. Due to the strain on his arm, Erwin decided to pull him from the competition as a precaution. Still, Alexander left a strong impression. ‘Proud of you, Alex, usap-usapan ang striking mo,’ ‘Grabe ang lakas ng striking,’ national MMA coaches said, echoing what many observed about how he carried himself against elite-level youth fighters from all over the world. And yes, it wasn’t just about the results, because for many back home, Alexander had already won. This wasn’t just a fight. It was a statement. “Congratulations, Alexander Tagure. At such a tender age, you strived hard to wave that Philippine banner in a sport we might still be young at,” another coach and pro-MMA fighter, Sharma Devaiah posted. For Kalinga, and for gyms like Tribu Banwar, and Alexander’s, this story is already inspiring a new generation of fighters who now know that yes, it is indeed possible that someone like them can make it international. The said IMMAF Youth World Championships, now on its sixth year with over 1,000 young athletes from more than 60 countries, is no small tournament. This is a clear path toward global recognition as UFC Executive Vice President and Head of International and Content, David Shaw, said, “You come to these championships as a stepping stone to the next level of your potential career.” And Alexander, like any young dreamer, is just getting started. The dream is far from over.//KB

Converge Global Business Receives HPE Philippines Service Provider of the Year

Business

Business / Street Journal

MANILA, Philippines — The corporate and large enterprise unit of leading fixed broadband and technology provider, Converge ICT Solutions Inc., – Converge Global Business – has been recognized with the Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) Philippines Service Provider of the Year Award for the fiscal year 2024, for demonstrating exceptional commitment and drive to accelerate the digitalization initiatives of large enterprises in the country. This recognition highlights the impressive journey of Converge as the fastest-growing fiber broadband and technology provider in the Philippines, now evolving into a full-fledged technology company that offers services beyond just connectivity solutions. Since 2024, Converge has been leveraging its extensive pure fiber network to deliver not just superior connectivity, but also integrated data center, enterprise, and network solutions that enable amazing digital experiences for its diverse clientele. “Receiving this award is a profound honor that truly celebrates the strategic, multi-year partnership between Converge and HPE. Together, we’ve consistently delivered innovative and impactful solutions, empowering our enterprise customers to truly thrive,” stated Lery Briones, VP for Marketing at Converge Global Business. “We are happy to bestow this award on Converge Global Business as a fitting recognition of their tireless work in pushing businesses to make their organizations future-ready in the areas of storage and networking,” said Jessica Powell-Bragas, HPE Country Leader for Commercial Sales. Among the products and solutions brought about by the partnership of Converge and HPE are on-premise storage solutions or cloud-based options. HPE is also the tech partner for Converge DRaaS or Disaster Recovery-as-a-Service offering. With unwavering dedication to pioneering innovation and delivering superior solutions, Converge consistently reinforces its position as a transformative force in the enterprise sector. The company stands as an essential partner, uniquely positioned to empower businesses in leading their digital transformation journeys and achieving unparalleled operational success, truly bringing fiber to the future.

Learning Center for Agrarian Reform beneficiaries, farmers to rise in Isabela

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

ILAGAN CITY, Isabela,Philippines — A new learning center dedicated to agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) and smallholder farmers will soon rise in Isabela, following a groundbreaking ceremony led by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Provincial Government of Isabela (PGI) on July 31. The site is located in front of the Isabela Sports Senior High School, behind the Isabela Sports Complex within the Capitol Compound in Alibagu, City of Ilagan. Leading the ceremony were DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, DAR R02 Director Primo C. Lara, Isabela Governor Rodito T. Albano, and several municipal mayors from the province. To commemorate the occasion, the officials placed a time capsule containing a copy of the project plan at the site. The project is funded by DAR under the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) Project, and will be implemented by the PGI. Key infrastructure components of the learning center include a training center and dormitory, processing center, product display center, administrative building, greenhouse facility, and a tissue culture laboratory. Once completed, the center is expected to benefit more than 166,000 ARBs, approximately 52,000 potential ARBs, and 467 Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) across 58 agrarian reform communities in the Cagayan Valley Region.

Mandaue reclamation to start — Wenceslao

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

The Mandaue City Reclamation project that will host a central business district and other amenities for the public will finally proceed shortly after more than 20 years of delay, Mandaue Land Consortium (MLC) said in a statement. The project was approved in 2001 and 2003 by then Mandaue Mayor Thadeo Ouano, Sr., the father of the current mayor, with MLC as the city’s joint-venture partner. MLC is a member of the Wenceslao Group of companies. The delay started when Jonas Cortes, who was mayor from 2007 to 2016, brought in another entity, Sultan 900 Consortium, which later assigned its rights to GlobalCity Mandaue Corp. (GMC) of former Cong. Mikee Romero, to reclaim the same area. In 2016, MLC went to the Construction Industry Arbitration Commission (CIAC) for arbitration and won. Mandaue City was ordered to honor its contract with MLC and to fully comply with its obligations to MLC. The CIAC order was final and executory. With then Mayor Luigi Quisumbing, the local government complied and issued a notice to proceed in 2019. That same year, however, Cortes won as mayor again and pushed for GMC. He was, however, dismissed from office by the Ombudsman in 2024 for cause. With Ouano Jr. as mayor now, MLC said the project can start as soon as permits and documentation requirements are obtained. MLC noted that the private parties Cortes tapped for the project went to a Pasig court to resolve their own differences. The court, however, was not informed that the CIAC already ruled in favor of MLC and that the city government had already issued a notice to proceed years back. MLC intervened but was told it was not a party to the case. The Supreme Court, however, said MLC will not be affected since “MLC is not an indispensable party because its interest in the controversy or subject matter is separable from the interest of Paradigm PH… and GMC.”

SM Group ramps up aid to families affected by monsoon rains, typhoons

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

In the wake of continuous rains and widespread flooding brought by Severe Tropical Storms Crising, Dante, Typhoon Emong, and the southwest monsoon, SM Foundation rolled out its Operation Tulong Express (OPTE) to provide immediate relief to affected communities across the country. In partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Markets, the Foundation distributed more than 18,800 Kalinga Packs, containing food and basic essentials. Relief operations covered several areas, including Metro Manila, Olongapo City, Bataan, Pampanga, Rizal, Pangasinan, Cavite, Tarlac City, La Union, Laguna, Cebu City. These were distributed in coordination with local government units and barangay officials. SM Foundation AVP for Livelihood and Outreach Program Cristie Angeles that the collaboration across SM’s business units added value to the effort and allowing for a quick response to the needs of the communities. Volunteers from SM Supermalls, SM Markets, and SM Foundation worked together to pack and distribute Kalinga packs to communities and households affected by recent storms. “Through OPTE, we make sure we are there for our communities not just in good times, but especially during crises,” Angeles said. “The dedication of our employees and partners allows us to respond quickly and compassionately when our fellow Filipinos need support the most.” OPTE is a social good program of SM Foundation, implemented in partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Markets. It is aimed at delivering immediate relief to SM’s host communities during calamities and emergencies. As of writing, relief operations are ongoing, with the SM Group preparing to continue the distribution in the coming days.

Salvosa pushes for Tech-Enhanced Citizen Participation

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

By Jordan G. Habbiling A proposed ordinance aims to transform governance in Baguio City by making it more inclusive, transparent, data-driven, and city-centered through the institutional use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI). Authored by freshly elected Councilor Paolo Raynor Salvosa, the proposed measure seeks to integrate AI into public consultation platforms, allowing the city to collect and analyze large volumes of citizen feedback, identify common concerns and consensus points, and guide evidence-based policy-making. Salvosa cited successful international models like the platforms and systems used by Taiwan, Canada, and Estonia which use AI to process citizen input and shape tech-related policies, interpret public sentiment in urban planning, and enhance service delivery. According to the proposed ordinance, online platforms will be widely used for the conduct of public consultations by the city government. However, AI systems must prioritize feedback from verified residents and voters and include residency verification tools in weighing public input. This prevents tourism-related feedback or outside influence from distorting governance decisions in order to preserve a policy-making mechanism that prioritizes the community. Such AI systems must be inclusive, simple, and feedback-driven. In terms of enhancing the accessibility of public records, the ordinance mandates that official documents such as ordinances, resolutions, and issuances be made available in machine-readable formats and not just scanned PDFs to enable AI-assisted search and filtering. This will also make data-mining more efficient for citizens and decision-makers. Likewise, the ordinance encourages pilot testing of AI tools and competitive partnerships with tech providers. It also encourages youth engagement through hackathons and design consultations. However, Salvosa emphasized that AI must serve the citizens and not the other way around. The ordinance proposes a human-centered design where AI supports and not replaces human decision-making. The ordinance also includes security measures like bot detection, deepfake identification, anomaly tracking, and sentiment analysis to safeguard platforms from manipulation; data privacy compliance, following the Data Privacy Act of 2012; and modern mechanisms to protect users from cyberbullying and digital harassment. The proposed ordinance has been approved on first reading by the Baguio City Council and referred to the Committee on Laws and Governance for review.

Author name: Street Journal

Solano Mayor highlights path to Cityhood and Local Development