Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

Featuring works available for appreciation—and for keeps Now on full display until July 26, this year’s exhibit features more than 125 artists and more than 600 original artworks ranging from paintings and sketches to sculptures and mixed media pieces. Visitors can immerse themselves in an impressive collection of works that reflect the culture, stories, and soul of the region. After the 2024 Art Market brought home a Gold Stevie Award, this year’s edition returns with the same heart—celebrating diversity and making art more accessible to everyone. From long-time creatives to first-time exhibitors, Art for Everyone lives up to its name by giving space to a wide range of talent. Art for Everyone also carries a deeper purpose. The participating artists, through their organizers, are committed to giving back by sharing a portion of their sales with three organizations close to their hearts: Art Heals, Autism Philippines, and Helping Hands. This initiative turns every purchase into a meaningful act—supporting not only the artists but also causes that uplift and heal. Whether you’re a collector, an advocate, or simply looking for creative inspiration, Art for Everyone offers an opportunity to explore meaningful works, support local artists, and take home a piece of the community’s heart. Many of last year’s participating artists have returned, now joined by fresh names and creative voices from various sectors—further enriching this year’s exhibit. The opening also received strong support from the Creative Baguio City Council, with Ms. Marie Venus Tan, Co-Chairperson, in attendance. Adding to the meaningful start, Autism Hearts Philippines President Lissa Sobrepeña delivered a heartfelt message and presented SM City Baguio with a Plaque of Recognition for its continued support of inclusive and community-centered art initiatives. Among this year’s featured groups are the Pasakalye Group of Artists, Autism Hearts Philippines, Tam-Awan Village artists, Camp Folkswagen, and Sining Sa Tubig. Together, they represent a vibrant and diverse collective—a testament to the growing impact of SM’s continued support for the local creative community. Visit the exhibit at the SM City Baguio Atrium from July 14 to 26, 2025. Support local. Celebrate creativity. Be part of something meaningful.

NBI Bayombong District Office reports 2024 Accomplishment

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Bayombong District Office(BAYDO) presented its 2024 accomplishments in crime prevention and public safety during the Monday flag-raising ceremony at the Provincial Capitol, where they served as the event’s sponsor. Highlighting the NBI Bayombong District Office’s achievements, Virgilio C. Reganit ,head of NBI BAYDO detailed several key operations: Anti-Human Trafficking Operation in Barangay Homestead, Bambang: This operation targeted an illicit bar involved in trafficking women, including minors, for sexual exploitation. Five victims were rescued, and three perpetrators were arrested, showcasing the office’s dedication to protecting vulnerable individuals and prosecuting traffickers. Operation Pine Tree in Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya: Aiming to curb illegal logging, this operation led to the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of illegally sourced pine wood products, reinforcing the enforcement of environmental laws. Apprehension of Long-Time Fugitive in Lamut, Ifugao: After 22 years on the run, Felicisimo Arce, Jr., a homicide suspect from a 2001 case, was captured on July 3, 2024. His arrest was the result of meticulous tracking and coordination, bringing long-awaited justice to the victims’ families. Usurpation of Authority Case at Bayombong Convention Center: Omar P. Moreno was arrested on August 29, 2024, for falsely representing himself as a high-ranking government official. This operation highlighted NBI-BAYDO’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of public institutions. Destruction of Marijuana Plantation in Tinglayan, Kalinga: As part of “Oplan Green Gold III,” NBI-BAYDO, in collaboration with PDEA and other units, destroyed two large illegal marijuana plantations covering 15,400 square meters on August 16, 2024. This operation demonstrated the bureau’s firm stance against illegal drug activities. Search and Seizure for RA 4653 Violation (Used Clothing Ban): Acting on public complaints, NBI-BAYDO uncovered an illegal “Ukay-Ukay” warehouse in Bayombong. The lawful search on November 7, 2024, resulted in the arrest of Jeffrey R. Domingo and charges against Grazielle D. Domingo. Seized items were valued at approximately ₱3 million, underscoring efforts to protect public health and legal commerce. Reganit expressed his gratitude to the provincial government, led by Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, for their constant support. He concluded his report by reaffirming the NBI Bayombong District Office’s dedication to supporting Governor Gambito’s programs aimed at fostering a safe and orderly province.

TS Crising causes P1.1-M in damage to BENECO Infrastructure

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

By Laarni S. Ilagan Severe Tropical Storm Crising, intensified by the southwest monsoon, caused an estimated P1.165 million in damage to the infrastructure of the Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) to date, disrupting power supply across parts of its service area. As of 8:00 a.m. on Monday, July 22, BENECO reported significant damage to several components of its power distribution network. Three transformers—two in Tuba, Benguet (Tadiangan and Tabaan) and one in Apugan, Irisan in Baguio City—were damaged, amounting to P509,196.78. An additional P655,933.66 in losses came from 14 downed electric poles, including associated lines and protective devices. Consumers under four feeders (7, 8, 9, and 10) connected to the North Sanitary Camp (NSC) substation experienced the most severe power outages during the storm’s peak. By 10:00 a.m., full power had been restored to all barangays in Baguio City, with only a few isolated households still experiencing outages or low voltage issues. In Benguet, restoration efforts were also underway, with the town of Bokod reporting the lowest recovery rate at 78 percent. Other municipalities reached between 92 and 100 percent restoration. Total households restored at 97.2%, according to the Emeregency Response Team of BENECO. BENECO deployed additional linemen and equipment from its South Drive headquarters to support affected areas, particularly in far-flung municipalities where local contractors were initially mobilized. According to BENECO, most of the pole-related damage was caused by soil erosion and fallen trees brought about by continuous heavy rainfall. “Exercise utmost safety when working with our lines,” BENECO General Manager Melchor Licoben reminded field workers. “As much as we want to restore power immediately, we must prioritize everyone’s safety.” Licoben also urged BENECO employees to offer prayers for the ongoing restoration efforts and called on office-based staff to assist by providing updates to consumers.

Yap calls for online learning contingency

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

As suspension of classes continue brought about by the monsoon rains, Benguet Representative Eric Go Yap is pressing for online learning contingency in the hopes of helping curve learning crisis across the country. “It is high time to develop an online learning contingency for suspended classes. Hindi na pwede na ‘May Pasok’ or ‘Walang Pasok’ lang ang announcements. We should consider adding a category na shift to online learning when in-person classes are suspended. Hindi naman lagi, kasi minsan naman apektado din ang internet connection ng bagyo or other calamities,” said Yap. Yap added the possible shift to online learning could be one way of reducing educational crisis in the country, as some students in both private and public schools struggle to recover from lost lessons due to limited remedial programs and the absence of consistent alternatives during suspensions. While acknowledging that implementation will be difficult, Yap stressed the urgency of starting the transition which could help preserve the academic calendar, reduce backlogs, and maintain learning momentum, even amid frequent disruptions. “It can help maintain the academic calendar and reduce backlogs. Teachers din ang nahihirapan dahil dito. Ilang days a year ba ang average na nawawala because of disruptions? 30days? More? Masyadong marami yun. And there were instances na maaga ang suspension pero biglang maaliwalas ang weather throughout the day. So that should be taken into consideration as well,” the solon added. According to a report from the Department of Education, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) already recorded 35 class disruptions in 2024, accounting for the highest number of school days lost in the country, mainly due to natural disasters and calamities. “We are facing learning crisis. Frequent class suspensions will not help address this. We are a disaster-prone country, not to mention, marami din mga national and local holidays. There’s way too many disruptions,” added Yap. Several studies recently showed that the problem on class disruption have resulted to widening learning gaps, reduced engagement for both learners and teachers, increase in drop-out risk, and even teacher burnout as some educators are forced to compress lesson into fewer days. Yap said the shift to an online contingency mode is seen as a pragmatic solution, though not without challenges. “But this will not be easy, we need to prioritize and invest on better digital infrastructure, teachers should be prepared as well, and a shift of mindset should happen on our students so they are equally motivated and engaged even during online classes. Challenging and this will take time but should we not take action now,” Yap quipped.

Son of Kalinga as new Cordillera Top Cop

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

Son of Kalinga as new Cordillera Top Cop CAMP DANGWA,Benguet — Police Brig.Gen. Ericson Dilag has officially assumed his post as the new Regional Director of the Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO CAR) following the Turnover of Command Ceremony held at the PRO CAR Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Major Bado Dangwa, La Trinidad, Benguet on July 21. Dilag, a proud son of Kalinga, succeeded Brig.Gen. David Peredo,Jr.,who served with distinction as PRO CAR Regional Director for over two years. Acting Deputy Chief PNP for Operations,PLt.Gen.Alan Okubo,presided the ceremony and served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker. Okubo lauded both the outgoing and incoming regional directors for their steadfast leadership and dedicated service to the public. A highlight of the event was the passing of the PRO CAR command symbol and the turnover of the property equipment inventory book from the outgoing Regional Director to the incoming Regional Director, marking the formal transfer of leadership and responsibility. Peredo extended his heartfelt gratitude to all personnel and stakeholders for their unwavering support throughout his leadership. Dilag expressed his deep honor in taking on the leadership of PRO CAR. He pledged to sustain and build upon the gains of the command, calling for unity, professionalism, and unwavering dedication from all personnel as they continue to serve the Cordilleran community. He also affirmed his strong alignment with the vision and directives of PNP Chief, PGEN Nicolas D Torre III. The event was witnessed by key officers and representatives from various units of the PNP, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology-CAR, Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, Local Government Units, PNP Press Corps, PRO CAR Officers Ladies Club, Regional Advisory Group for Police Transformation and Development, and family members, relatives, and close friends of both the incoming and outgoing Regional Directors.

𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗨 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗶𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲-𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

DIFFUN, Quirino (PIA) – – Banana farmers in the Cagayan Valley region can now avail of high-yield banana varieties as Quirino State University–Banana Resources Research and Development Center (QSU-BRRDC) offers high-quality tissue-cultured banana plantlets at low price. Elizabeth R. Oppuer, QSU-BRRDC center chief, said the university initiative supports sustainable agriculture and farmers’ livelihood in Quirino and nearby provinces in the Cagayan Valley region. Oppuer assured that the plantlets sold at P45 each are disease-free, faster-fruiting, and higher-yielding compared to traditional planting materials. “They are ideal for high-density planting, ensuring uniform growth and quicker returns, making them a smart, science-based solution for local banana growers,” Oppuer explained. According to Henrey R. Ignacio, QSU-BRRDC research assistant, the available banana varieties include: Lakatan, which is sweet, firm, and harvestable within 10 months; Latundan, which is aromatic and fast-growing; Cardava, which is best for cooking and processing, ready in 18-20 months; and Cavendish, which is export-quality and globally in demand. Ignacio said those who are interested to inquire may contact 0917-636-2043 (Globe) or 0981-282-9430 (TNT). “Interested farmers must pick up their orders at the QSU-BRRDC facility, as the center currently does not offer delivery services. The number of plantlets a farmer can purchase depends on their available land area, ” Ignacio said. Furthermore, Ignacio said plant maturity varies by variety, and proper farm management significantly influences the harvesting period. The QSU-BRRDC also provides technical training and on-site assistance for banana farming, support for student researchers, On-the-Job Training, and Senior High School immersion programs. Aside from these, QSU also offers research partnerships with schools, Local Government Units, and private entities. (OTB/TCB/PIA-2, QUIRINO)

Cebu Pacific reaches 100th Aircraft Delivery with New A330neo, First in PH History

Business

Business / Street Journal

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading airline, has reached a historic milestone as it becomes the first local carrier to operate a 100-strong fleet with the delivery of its latest aircraft — a brand new A330neo. The A330neo is also the 12th aircraft of its kind to join CEB’s fleet, reinforcing the airline’s position as the largest A330neo operator in the Asia-Pacific. The 459-seater aircraft, which arrived in Manila from Airbus’ facility in Toulouse, France, is the second of four A330neos expected to join CEB’s fleet this year — the first of which arrived on March 28. CEB is expecting a total of seven aircraft to be delivered in 2025. “Reaching 100 aircraft is more than a milestone — it reflects our unwavering commitment to make air travel accessible to more Filipinos,” said Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer. “With a larger fleet, we’re able to operate more efficiently, enhance connectivity across the country and the region, and pass on the benefits of scale through even lower fares.” This milestone comes amid continued passenger growth. In June 2025, CEB flew a total of 2.2 million passengers, marking a 7.9% increase from the same month last year. From January to June, the airline has flown 13.9 million passengers, marking a 21% increase from 11.5 million in the first half of 2024. The A330neo provides CEB with the flexibility to serve regional and long-haul routes, as well as high-demand sectors. With increased range and capacity, the aircraft enables the airline to optimize its operations while maintaining cost efficiency. Airbus NEOs are the latest-generation aircraft that burn up to 25 percent less fuel per flight and produce less noise compared to the previous generation. The decrease in fuel consumption leads to a corresponding reduction in aircraft carbon emissions. CEB operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with its diversified fleet mix of 12 Airbus A330s, 40 Airbus A320s, 26 Airbus A321s, and 22 ATR turboprop aircraft, enabling the widest network coverage in the Philippines.

Ben&Ben takes album tour to Baguio Concert in August

Lifestyle

Lifestyle / Street Journal

The band’s first solo show in the City of Pines BAGUIO CITY — The country’s biggest folk-pop band Ben&Ben is resuming the Philippine leg of its The Traveller Across Dimensions album tour in August, adding Baguio City to its previously announced Bacolod City and Davao City stops. The Baguio City show will take place on August 23 at the John Hay Convention Center, sandwiched between the Bacolod show on August 16 at the University of St. La Salle Coliseum and the Davao show on August 30 at the Holy Cross of Davao College Gymnasium. As part of the lead-up to these shows, the band performed a one-night-only concert at the Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, California on July 12. The album tour made its first stop in Cebu City on May 24, but succeeding shows slated in June had to be rescheduled to allow drummer Jam Villanueva to rest and recover from De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis and Drummer’s Wrist on her left hand. During that challenging period, while proceeding with their prior commitments and supporting Jam in her healing, the band reflected on their own journey together, the relationship they had built with Liwanag over the past eight years, and the purpose that they and their music served. “We have grown together as a band and as people, but we know that there is still a lot of room for improvement. What we have realized over the past weeks is that when we are faced with seemingly impossible challenges, we are led to a very important moment of realization. At this moment, we begin to understand that one of the ways we can overcome our struggle is by understanding the purpose of everything that we do,” Ben & Ben said. Living with purpose aligns with the message of The Traveller Across Dimensions. The concept album follows the story of Liwanag, the Traveller, as she journeys through innocence, struggle, and maturity. She writes 12 songs along the way, which relate her experiences in each of the Dimensions. The songs reflect the various experiences of the band members over the past several years and showcase their growth as people, as songwriters, and as musicians. “A life of purpose entails a journey of self-discovery, struggle, growth, meaningful connections, and positive contribution. All these have been part of Liwanag’s journey, and part of ours as well. Seeing the songs come alive on stage will allow you to appreciate that journey, that purpose, even more. We would love for you to be part of our shows,” the band further said. During their concert tour, the nine-piece band will perform tracks from The Traveller Across Dimensions, mixed with their biggest hits. Their latest single Saranggola is also part of the setlist. Since its release in April, Saranggola has slowly gained status as this generation’s friendship anthem. The band also announced that for the Philippine leg of their album tour, they will be partnering with non-government organizations that align with their advocacies and their purpose. These partners will be announced once all arrangements are finalized. The Baguio leg of The Traveller Across Dimensions Tour is made possible through a partnership with DuckWorld, a consultancy and management agency specializing in business strategies and solutions for sports and the creative industries. About Ben&Ben Ben&Ben is a multi-awarded Filipino band known for their anthemic sound and electrifying live performances. With critically acclaimed albums that set records in streaming and sales, the nine-piece collective explores personal, emotional, and socio-political themes with underlying messages of human connection, courage, hope, and vulnerability. In less than a decade, they’ve managed to shape an entire generation’s cultural awakening through music that uplifts, inspires, and invites introspection. The band’s songs also serve as both a mirror and a compass, which guide listeners on a journey of self-discovery. [Photo taken from The Traveller Across Dimensions Cebu Concert. Photo Credit: Perci Mansueto]

Grade 10 student kinidnap,ginahasa sa Baguio

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY – Nahaharap ngayon sa kasong kidnapping with rape ang isang 35-anyos na instructor ng isang unibersidad sa lungsod kaugnay sa umano’y pagkidnap at panggagahasa sa isang 14-anyos na Grade 10 student noong Hulyo 9. Ayon sa Baguio City Police Office, matapos ang masusing imbestigasyon ay ipinasa na nila ang kaso sa tanggapan ng City Prosecutor’s Office noong Hulyo 14, habang ang suspek na kanilang nadakip ay nasa kustodiya ng PS 10 at ililipat sa Baguio City Jail kapag nakumpleto ang mga dokumento. Sa imbestigasyon ng pulisya, sinabi ng dalagitang si Jessica (hindi tunay na pangalan), na naglalakad siya patungo sa paaralan sa tabi ng Baguio Wright Park Fountain, Barangay Lualhati, dakong alas-8:20 ng umaga noong Hulyo 9, nang huminto sa kanyang harapan ang isang hindi kilalang sasakyan. Ayon sa biktima, inakala niya na kilala siya ng driver, kaya siya ay lumapit sa sasakyan, subalit bigla umano siyang hinablot ng suspek at tinakpan ng panyo ang bibig at ilong na naging sanhi ng pagkawala niya ng malay. Nang magising siya ng alas-10 ng umaga, siya ay nag-iisa sa isang hindi pamilyar na silid sa isang lodge sa Bakakeng Central na hubo’t hubad. “She felt pain on her private parts and her legs are shaking. She dressed and went out of the room, (walked along the highway) and called her class adviser who then contacted Police Station 3 then coordinated with PS 10,” police said. Mabilis na nagsagawa ng follow-up investigation ang mga tauhan ng PS10 at natukoy ang pagkakakilanlan ng suspek na humantong sa pagkakaaresto nito.

Author name: Street Journal

SM City Baguio Spotlights Local Creativity Through Art for Everyone