Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

BAGUIO CITY – Muling kinatawan ni City Councilor Elmer Datuin ang Baguio City sa pandaigdigang yugto, sa pagkakataong ito ay iprinisinta ang gender equality initiatives ng lungsod. Sumali si Datuin sa isang workshop para sa Voluntary National Reviews at Local and Regional Government Assembly, isang kaugnay na kaganapan ng 12th Asia-Pacific Forum for Sustainable Development (APFSD) na ginanap sa Bangkok, Thailand, noong Pebrero 25, 2025, Bilang National Chairman for Advocacy ng Philippine Councilors League (PCL), nagsalita siya tungkol sa kahalagahan ng pagsusulong ng pagkakapantay-pantay ng kasarian at kung paano nagtrabaho ang Baguio City upang lumikha ng isang mas inclusive at gender-responsive na lungsod. Sa kanyang talumpati, ipinaliwanag ni Datuin na ang pamahalaang lungsod ay nag-institutionalize ng Gender and Development (GAD) Code sa pamamagitan ng Ordinance 66-2011 (as amended) upang matiyak na ang mga pagsasaalang-alang ng kasarian ay isinama sa paggawa ng patakaran, pagpaplano, pagbabadyet, pagpapatupad, pagsubaybay, at pagsusuri nito. Kasama sa mga partikular na programa sa ilalim ng Kodigong ito ang mga inisyatiba sa kapasidad, pagbabadyet na tumutugon sa kasarian, pagtatatag ng mga mekanismo ng pagsubaybay at pagsusuri, at aktibong pakikipag-ugnayan ng stakeholder. Binanggit din niya ang isang pagsusuri ng pag-unlad ng lungsod gamit ang mga tool sa pagtatasa. Ang unang lugar na tinasa ay gender mainstreaming. Sa lugar na ito, naabot ng lungsod ang antas 2 sa 5, na nangangahulugan na ang mga hakbangin ng kasarian ay nasa lugar ngunit hindi pa ganap na isinama sa lahat ng mga programa ng pamahalaan. Ang pangalawa ay ang pagiging tumutugon sa kasarian kung saan nakatanggap ang lungsod ng average na 3 sa 4, na nagsasaad na umiiral ang mga patakarang sensitibo sa kasarian ngunit hindi ganap na aktibo sa pagtugon sa mga isyung nauugnay sa kasarian. Upang matugunan ang mga puwang na ito, ang lungsod ay nagpatibay ng ilang mga estratehiya tulad ng muling pagbuo at pagpapalakas ng mga focal point ng GAD sa lahat ng departamento ng lungsod, pagsubaybay sa taunang plano at badyet ng GAD, pagtatasa ng pagganap ng departamento, at pagtatatag ng mga focal point ng GAD sa bawat barangay. Higit pa rito, binigyang-diin ni Datuin ang ilang mga konkretong programa na idinisenyo upang mapahusay ang pagkakapantay-pantay at kaligtasan ng kasarian sa lungsod. Ito ay ang GAD Section sa City Library, Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Desks, Dedicated Women and Children’s Unit sa Baguio City Police Office (BCPO), Ai-Powered Cameras at Smart City Command Center para mapahusay ang emergency response at pag-iwas sa krimen na nagpapaganda ng kaligtasan para sa kababaihan, LED Street Lighting Project, at Support for Women in the Creative Industry. Gayunpaman, kinilala ni Datuin ang ilang mga hadlang na humahadlang sa ganap na pagsasama-sama ng GAD tulad ng kakulangan ng na-update na data na pinaghiwa-hiwalay ng kasarian, mahinang pakikipagtulungan sa mga ahensya, mababang kamalayan sa mga karapatan ng kasarian, at limitadong mga mapagkukunan at tauhan. Upang malampasan ang mga hamong ito, iminungkahi ni Datuin ang mga sumusunod na estratehiya: pagpapatupad ng isang sistemang database na tumutugon sa kasarian, pagpapahusay ng mga pagsusumikap sa pagsubaybay ng plano at badyet ng GAD, pagtatatag ng isang nakatuong hotline para sa mga biktima ng karahasan na nakabatay sa kasarian, at pagpapahusay ng kamalayan ng publiko tungkol sa Magna Carta para sa kababaihan. Ipinahayag ni Datuin na ang Baguio City ay nananatiling nakatuon sa sustainable development, na sumusunod sa pambansa at pandaigdigang balangkas. Muli niyang pinagtibay ang dedikasyon ng lungsod sa pagbuo ng isang inclusive, resilient, at thriving community kung saan nananatiling priyoridad ang pagkakapantay-pantay ng kasarian. Ito ang kanyang ika-apat na paglahok sa internasyonal na fora sa sustainable development at governance. Dati niyang kinatawan ang Baguio City sa United Nations (UN) Water Conference sa New York, USA noong Marso 22, 2023, ang Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development sa Bangkok, Thailand noong Pebrero 19, 2024, at ang World Water Forum sa Bali noong Mayo 22, 2024 kung saan tinugunan niya ang mga isyu mula sa water governance hanggang sa poverty reduction.

Dalawang iconic project itatayo sa Pangasinan

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN – Pinangunahan ni Gov. Ramon V. Guico III, kasama ang mga opisyal ng lalawigan ang groundbreaking ceremony kamakailan para simulan ang pagtatayo ng dalawang iconic project- sa loob ng Capitol Complex. Ito ay ang 1,500-seater Convention Center at ng 11-storey Government Center and Tower, na bahagi ng Capitol Redevelopment Project, isang legacy project ng administrasyong Guico na naglalayong pasiglahin ang pag-unlad ng ekonomiya at turismo sa Pangasinan. “We have to give credit to the people who also played a big role in making all of these happen. Sa ating mga department head at empleyado ng ating Provincial Capitol, maraming salamat po,” he said with FADZ Construction, Inc. President and CEO Nathaniel Mariano as witness. With the battle cry ‘Pangasinan, Ang Galing!, Guico added: ‘We are laying the foundation and planting the seeds for the near future and for the far future. Kaya, sa tingin ko, gagawin itong matalino ng administrasyong ito bilang tagabuo ng mahusay at bagong Pangasinan. Iyon ang gusto nating mangyari.” “Noong ang Team FADZ ay nagdisenyo ng gusaling ito (Government Center/Tower), nagsimula kami sa conventional foundation. Pagkatapos, sa pag-unlad namin, nang magsagawa kami ng pagsusuri sa lupa ay napagtanto namin na kailangan naming baguhin ang disenyo…ang tinatawag na spread footing o mat footing. Ngunit sinabi ng mga structural engineer na marami silang kinunsulta dahil kailangan nating tiyakin ang integridad at kaligtasan ng istraktura,” sabi ni Gov. Guico, na gustong makita ang Pangasinan mula sa Lingayen, bilang “`Singapore of the North.” Ang pamahalaang panlalawigan noong 2023 ay pumasok sa P6 bilyong Omnibus term loan mula sa Land Bank Philippines para pondohan ang mga priority development projects. Sa nasabing halaga, PhP4.3 bilyon ang inilaan para sa mga proyekto sa loob ng Capitol grounds. Ang ilan sa P1.8 bilyon ay nakalaan para sa pagtatayo ng government center na maglalaman ng mga tanggapan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan at mga ahensya ng pambansang pamahalaan. Isa pang P500 milyon ang inilaan para sa karagdagang pagpapahusay sa Provincial Capitol Complex. Magtatatag din ang lalawigan ng P500 milyon na corporate center para maglagay ng mga negosyo at commercial space na naglalayong pasiglahin ang lokal na aktibidad sa ekonomiya. Sinabi ni Guico na P758 milyon ang gagamitin para sa mga proyektong pangkalusugan at iba pang malaking tiket para sa lalawigan. Ang natitirang P700 milyon ay gagamitin para sa pagkuha ng lupa at pagtatayo ng iba pang pasilidad ng suporta. Sa muling pagpapaunlad ng Capitol Complex, tiniyak ng gobernador na ang makasaysayang gusali ng Kapitolyo ay mananatiling hindi nagagalaw at mananatili bilang pangunahing heritage site ng Pangasinan.

PMRB-Apayao approves Four Small-Scale Mining contracts in Conner

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

By Joyce Arian Soria – APIO The Provincial Government of Apayao, through the leadership of Governor Elias C. Bulut Jr. as the Co-chairperson of the PMRB Apayao, held a Provincial Mining Regulatory Board Meeting at the Lafaayette Luxury Suite, Baguio City, on February 26. The said meeting resulted in the approval and awarding of four Small Scale Mining Contracts of declared Minahang Bayan of Conner, Apayao. Regional Executive Director, Engr. Paquito T. Moreno of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) CAR, as well as Regional Director and Chairperson of PMRB Apayao, Fay W. Apil from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and Regional Director Jean Borromeo of the Environment Management Bureau (EMB) deliberated and weighed the merits of the approved contracts. It is said that the items in the contracts are expected to enhance mining operations while ensuring adherence to environmental standards. With a total of six contracts in place, Apayao province now has the most approved small-scale mining contracts in the Cordillera. This new development proves its dedication to promoting responsible mining and engaging local communities through sustainable economic development. Regional Executive Director, Engr. Paquito T.Moreno highlighted the importance of the responsibilities accompanying these new contracts, emphasizing the necessity for contractors to adhere to the terms and conditions specified. “The contract are great responsibility coming from the contractors to abide and comply with their terms and condition of their contracts at the same time for concern government agencies to monitor the compliance of the Environment Compliance Certificate (ECC) and to see to it that the product of this Minahang Bayan outreach will end up being sold at legitimate or accredited buying station for most of it is the Central Bank of the Philippines,” he added. Additionally, Regional Director and Chairperson of PMRB Apayao, Fay W. Apil expressed her gratitude to the Provincial Local Government of Apayao for its continued support to Small Scale Mining. The Minahang Bayan program, which seeks to grant small-scale miners legal access to mining rights, is intended to make mining safer and more organized, ultimately enhancing the livelihood prospects of residents in Conner and the surrounding communities. While Apayao seeks to become the leader in sustainable mining in the region, effective execution of these contracts will become a model for other provinces aimed to reconcile natural resource extraction and environmental conservation that it establishes its singular role as one of the Philippines’ Biosphere Reserves.

OFW Welfare Center building to rise in Nueva Vizcaya

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Rachel Magday In a recent courtesy call to the office of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, OFW Partylist Representative Marissa Delmar Magsino committed to providing funding for the construction of an Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Welfare Center building in Nueva Vizcaya. This initiative aims to offer a comfortable space for OFWs and their families to address their concerns and needs when visiting the provincial capitol. Representative Magsino’s pledge includes additional funding for livelihood and scholarship programs specifically for the children of OFWs in the province. One of the key topics discussed between the congresswoman and Governor Gambito was the importance of providing financial literacy orientation for OFWs. This program aims to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed investment decisions with the hard-earned money they have saved while working abroad. Gambito has tasked Dolly Rose C. Minas, head of the Public Employment Service Division, to prepare the necessary project proposals for the initiative. The establishment of the OFW Welfare Center building, located at the provincial capitol, is based on an ordinance authored by Board Member Elma Pinao-an Lejao. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to working together to implement various programs aimed at improving the conditions and support for OFWs in Nueva Vizcaya. The proposed welfare center building is set to become a vital resource for OFWs, providing them with a dedicated space to seek assistance and access various services, including financial literacy training to ensure their investments yield positive outcomes.

Globe expands high-speed connectivity with 587 new 5G sites in 2024

Business

Business / Street Journal

Globe further expanded its 5G network in 2024, deploying 587 new 5G sites across the Philippines as the company continues to invest in 5G technology with consistently rising demand for high-speed mobile services. This rollout resulted in 5G coverage reaching 98.69% of the National Capital Region and 96.95% of key cities throughout the Visayas and Mindanao, now serving approximately 106 towns. “With our enhanced 5G coverage, we are delivering improved mobile experiences to our customers,” said Joel Agustin, Globe’s Head of Service Planning and Engineering. “Our investments in network infrastructure reflect our dedication to providing equal access to the digital economy for all communities in the Philippines.” In December 2024 alone, over 9 million devices connected to Globe’s 5G network, showing the increasing reliance of consumers on fast and reliable connectivity. Globe is reinforcing its 5G leadership through hyper-personalization efforts, giving customers more to look forward to as activity in the 5G space is seen to gain momentum. Beyond its domestic efforts, Globe also broadened its global presence through partnerships with 168 inbound and 182 outbound 5G partners in 99 destinations, further solidifying its position in the international market. Globe’s 5G expansion is part of its ongoing network initiatives, which include the construction of 1,212 new cell sites and the enhancement of 4,613 existing mobile sites with LTE technology in 2024. The company also deployed 67,456 fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) lines, prioritizing the optimization of existing fiber resources in line with more efficient capital expenditure. Globe is increasing its builds this year to strengthen and improve its network, ensuring a smooth and reliable experience for customers everywhere while supporting economic progress and innovation.

Re-tooled Yap Benguet All –Stars set against PBA Motoclub

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Two former PBA standouts will re-enforce Benguet’s top basketball players with this year’s All – Star Games set March 1 at the Benguet Sports Complex gymnasium. After getting clobbered by a taller and more experienced motoclub, the Cong. Eric Go Yap Benguet All – Star led squad will find an unlikely ally, James Yap and Mark Pingris, to fortify their line -up and avenge their lopsided loss last year. “Because we lost last year in a blowout, I called on my ‘cousin’ to play. Although he is from Negros, he is still my cousin,” Yap said in jest. James, and Pingris will be joined by some of the top players of the Cong Eric Go Yap Congressional Cup – Benguet Basketball League led by most valuable player candidate Kim Padawag of Itogon, La Trinidad’s Will Kean Lee and Bryan Gravilez, first season’s most valuable player Cyril De Vera of Tuba siblings John Ray and Jhun Ric Buenaventura of Bokod together with Kyle Naisod and Yzer Neil Palispis of Kabayan. Itogon’s Lenz Antolino will also be in the line – up that includes Kurt Tamiray from Atok and Nicanor Menzi from Tublay, Rudolf Eilinger of Kapangan, scoring king Lindon De Guzman of Mankayan, Jerry Olsim from Buguias, and Bakun sharpshooter Ryan Contada. “As for me, I will be playing longer in the floor, so I will be better prepared,” added the two – term legislator. The PBA Motoclub will field JJ Helterbrand, Rico Maierhofer, brothers Ranidel and Yancy De Ocampo, Alex Cabagnot, Gary David, Cyrus Baguio, KG Canaleta, Jerwin Gaco and Ryan Araña. “So mark your calendars, free admission for all Benguet residents on a first come first served basis!” The All-stars comes before the finals of the Yap Cup, both basketball and volleyball. La Trinidad will defend against Itogon in men’s basketball, while unbeaten Sablan faces upstart Tuba in women’s volleyball. PR

Puerto Princesa City gears up for an action-packed Ironman@70.3 race weekend

Vis-Min

Vis-Min / Street Journal

PUERTO PRINCESA, Philippines – The vibrant city of Puerto Princesa is set to host an unforgettable weekend of endurance, community, and celebration as over 1,000 participants from more than 40 countries, across all three weekend events converge for the IRONMAN® 70.3 Puerto Princesa weekend starting February 27 – March 2, 2025. Beyond the main event, an array of races and festivities will engage participants of all ages and skill levels, making for a truly immersive multisport experience. The IRONMAN weekend coincies with the Balayong Festival which also commemorates the City’s Foundation day. A Weekend of Racing and Celebration The excitement kicks off on February 28 with the 2GO Princesa Run, a women-focused fitness event drawing over 300 participants. The following day, March 1, shines the spotlight on the next generation of endurance athletes with the RLC IRONKIDS Swim-Run and IRONKIDS Run, offering young competitors the chance to experience the thrill of racing. Meanwhile, the Sunrise Sprint, a short-distance triathlon, provides both beginners and seasoned athletes with a fast and accessible challenge. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere is Puerto Princesa’s Balayong Festival, a citywide celebration of its iconic cherry blossoms, further enhancing the festive race weekend experience for athletes and spectators alike. Puerto Princesa City Mayor Lucilo R. Bayron expressed his excitement for the upcoming race, highlighting its significance beyond just competition: “It is with great pride and excitement that we host the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa on March 2, 2025. This event is not just a test of endurance, strength, and determination but also a celebration of the unstoppable human spirit. We salute each and every one of you for the dedication and perseverance you have put into training for this prestigious race. This event is more than just a race; it is an opportunity to embrace new challenges, build friendships, and experience the heart and soul of our city.” Sunrise Events Inc. (SEI), the organizer of IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa, remains dedicated to providing top-tier race experiences that unite athletes and communities alike. Princess Galura, SEI President and Managing Director, emphasized the impact of the event: “At Sunrise Events, we are committed to delivering world-class races that not only challenge athletes but also inspire communities. IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa is a testament to the power of endurance sports in bringing people together—from elite competitors to first-time racers, from local supporters to international visitors. This race is more than just a test of physical limits; it is an opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of Puerto Princesa, embrace the warmth of its people, and celebrate the unbreakable human spirit. We are excited to welcome athletes from around the world and look forward to an unforgettable race weekend.” A Revamped and Faster Course for 2025 The 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa promises an exhilarating new race experience with a redesigned, faster, and more scenic course. Race Director Julian Valencia unveiled significant course enhancements, including a reconfigured bike leg and an all-new run route through the heart of the city. “We’ve refined our bike course to be not only faster but also more picturesque, and our new run course offers athletes an immersive experience of Puerto Princesa’s charm,” said Valencia. Athletes will take on the 1.9km swim, 90km bike, and 21km run, testing their endurance against a world-class field. Elite Competition on the Start Line The race will feature a competitive lineup of both local and international talent. Philippine standouts Mervin Santiago, Sebastian Julian Teves, and Jeremy Ruiz will battle for the podium in the men’s division, while Bianca Española, Mary Pauline Fornea, Nina Pascua, and Melody Amorin lead the charge in the women’s race. They will face top international contenders, including Thailand’s Anna Lobanova, Indonesia’s Citra Melati, Japan’s Mitsuki Tanaka-Tan, and the US’ Megan Brazell. Sunrise Events Philippines has also confirmed the participation of elite triathletes from South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Canada, Germany, South Africa, and beyond, adding to the race’s global prestige. Special Competitions and Awards The IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa will host the Badge Tally Competition, rewarding IRONMAN-affiliated TriClubs with points for every member who participates in the IRONMAN 70.3, 5150, and Sunrise Sprint events. These points contribute to cash rewards throughout the 2025 Triathlon Season. The Puerto Princesa Championship Awards will recognize outstanding achievements, offering: P50,000 each to the First Filipino Finisher (male and female) P200,000 to the IRONMAN-affiliated TriClub with the most participants in the IRONMAN 70.3 and Sunrise Sprint races Personalized Race Gear for Athletes Adding to the race-day excitement, LGR Athletic Wears Inc. introduces customizable athlete shirts, allowing participants to personalize their official race gear with their names and race numbers, creating a meaningful keepsake from this prestigious event. The 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 in Puerto Princesa is backed by Global Premier Partners – AG1, Breitling 1884, Fulgaz, Hoka, Hyperice, Qatar Airways, Roka, TicketSocket, TriDot, Zoot, wahoo; Supplier Partners Asia – Always Advancing, Compressport; Host City Puerto Princesa; Official Water Amlan; Official Electrolyte Beverage ion+; Sponsors LGr, Manila Bulletin, Tempo, Robinsons Supermarket, Sante, Teresa Marvel; Media Partners One sports+, Cignal, Sportograf. Organized and produced by Sunrise Events Inc. IRONMAN® 70.3 Puerto Princesa promises not only a true test of endurance, strength, and determination but also an unforgettable racing experience in a tropical paradise.

Baguio nagwagi sa unang Muay Thai Elementary Division sa CARAA meet

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

LA TRINIDAD,Benguet – Matagumpay na nasungkit ng Baguio City ang kauna-unahang gintong medalya sa Muay Thai Elementary Division sa makasaysayang CARAA MEET 2025 na ginanap sa Benguet State University Open Gymnasium, noong Pebrero 25. Isa sa mga pangunahing bida sa kaganapang ito ay si Lara Czarina Langaoen, na nagpakitang-gilas sa kanyang talento. Matapos ang tatlong linggong masigasig na paghahanda mula sa City Meet, nakabawi si Lara at ipinakita ang kanyang kahusayan. Ang event na ito ay nagmarka ng bagong yugto sa sports ng rehiyon, na nagbigay-daan sa mga batang atleta na ipakita ang kanilang galing sa larangan ng Muay Thai. Noong nakaraang taon, wala pang elementary division para sa Muay Thai, kaya’t ito ang unang pagkakataon na naganap ang kompetisyon para sa mga kabataang atleta. Ayon kay Coach Marites Napudo, tatlong mahahalagang aspeto ang nag-ambag sa tagumpay ni Langaoen: ang consistency ng kanyang mga hakbang, ang tamang pag-memorize ng steps, at ang pagsabay sa beat ng musika. Sa kabila ng kinakailangang minimum na 3 minuto at maximum na 4 minuto para sa pagperform, nagawa ni Lara na tapusin ang kanyang laban sa 3 minuto at 37 segundo, na nagbigay sa kanya ng mataas na score na 90.66%. Si Lara ang nagwagi ng gintong medalya sa 9-10 years old female category, sinundan siya ng representative ng Tabuk City na si Alexandra Cos-agon na may oras na 3 minuto at 5 segundo at score na 88.66%, at pumangatlo si Skylar Shane Maganon mula sa Benguet na may oras na 3 minuto at 33 segundo at score na 86.66%. Ang pangarap ni Lara ay makamit ang gintong medalya, inspirasyon niya ang first Filipina Muay Thai World Champion na si Islay Erika Bomogao, na nagtagumpay sa 2023 IFMA Senior World Championship sa Bangkok, Thailand. “Pangarap ko po yun, inspired ako kay ate Islay Erika Bomogao,” pahayag ni Lara. Ayon kay Coach Napudo, patuloy ang suporta kay Lara sa kanyang training. “Palagi ko siyang pinapaalalahanan na dumalo sa training, maging on time, at sundin ang mga rules sa pagperform,” dagdag niya. Sa ngayon, wala pang Muay Thai Elementary Division sa Palarong Pambansa, kundi ito ay isang demo sport lamang. “Slowly siyang inaangat at hopefully by next year, magkakaroon na siya,” ani Coach Napudo. Ang pamilya ni Lara, lalo na ang kanyang mga tito at tita na mga Muay Thai athlete din, ang kanyang pinaghuhugutan ng lakas at inspirasyon. Para sa mga nais sundan ang kanyang yapak, nagbigay siya ng mensahe: “Kung gusto talaga nila ang Muay Thai, training talaga ang kailangan at syempre balansehin din ito kasabay ng pag-aaral.” Mula sa kanyang tagumpay, malinaw ang pangako ni Lara na ipagpatuloy ang kanyang paglalakbay sa Muay Thai, at umaasa na hindi lamang siya makilala sa lokal na antas kundi maging sa pambansang entablado. Ang kanyang kwento ay nagsisilbing inspirasyon sa mga batang atleta sa rehiyon na mangarap at magsikap para sa kanilang mga layunin. By Joshua Ebalane-UB Intern

SBMA sees more investments with CREATE MORE Act

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

Subic Bay Freeport – Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is now looking forward to more global investments after the bill on Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) was signed into law. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that with CREATE MORE, also known as Republic Act 12066, Subic Bay Freeport (SBF) will become a prime area for global investments. Aliño made this statement after the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the CREATE MORE Act was signed by Finance Secretary and Fiscal and Incentives Review Board (FIRB) chair Ralph Recto and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary and FIRB co-chair Ma Cristina Roque at the Department of Finance on February 17, 2025. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and FIRB Board Member Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick Go, and National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan witnessed the signing. “Now that the IRR for the CREATE MORE Act is signed, it’s back to work for us here in Subic Bay Freeport as we can now expect more foreign companies to invest here. This is certainly monumental since the IRR clarifies and refines the law’s smooth implementation provisions,” Aliño added. The official cited that the CREATE MORE Act includes provisions for investors, giving them the option to choose either the Special Corporate Income Tax of 5% or Enhanced Deductions. He said that more incentives will also be given to high-value investments with capitalization of more than P15 billion and in sectors that are considered import-substituting or export sales. He added that the CREATE MORE Act also provides additional relief to Registered Business Enterprises (RBEs) by reducing the Corporate Income Tax or CIT rate to 20% from 25%, with the law increasing the additional deduction on electricity from 50% to 100%. “Tourism-related investments in the SBF will also benefit from the CREATE MORE Act, with the SBMA providing an additional 50% deduction for expenses related to trade fairs and tourism reinvestments until 2034,” Aliño said.

Author name: Street Journal

Datuin, iprinisinta ang gender quality initiatives ng Baguio sa global stage