Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is undertaking more financial relief measures for its stakeholders as discussed in a public consultation at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) here on May 11, 2026. SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Support Services Atty. Ramon O. Agregado said that these temporary measures, stipulated in Board Resolution No. 26-04-1768, and approved on April 21, extend financial relief to affected Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ) stakeholders. This action responds to Executive Order No. 110 by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., which declared the entire country under a State of National Energy Emergency. These measures include a 50% reduction in the Road Users’ Fee (RUF); the suspension of the Environment and Tourism Administrative Fee (ETAF); free renewal of SBMA IDs in electronic ID (e-ID) format for SBF workers; a reduction of fees for renewing SBMA IDs in physical card format; and the implementation of the Economic Relief Assistance Program (ERA 4) for locators here. Agregado said that the RUF is imposed only on Class 3 vehicles such as trucks, heavy equipment, and other vehicles except mass transit buses with a 45-passenger seating capacity, that utilize the road on a daily, monthly, or annual basis to partially recover the cost of repairing and maintaining the SBF road network. “Please note that the RUF has not been adjusted since 1997 despite inflation and the fact that the prices of services and materials have increased numerous times throughout the years. Notwithstanding the above, the SBMA Board of Directors likewise approved in the same Resolution to defer the implementation of the programmed increase or adjustment of the RUF,” he added. Meanwhile, ETAF, which covers all guests with short-term stays in SBFZ Accommodation Establishments, is suspended. These establishments include hotels, inns, daily rental housing facilities, condotels, and all other such establishments. Other tourism establishments include restaurants, wellness centers, massage and health spas, golf courses, beach resorts, and theme parks, and all other tourism-related establishments, except duty-free shops and retail stores. “The SBMA Board of Directors, through Resolution No. 26-04-1789, approved the temporary suspension of ETAF payments effective 24 April 2026. The same Resolution provides that the temporary suspension of ETAF payments shall remain in effect until otherwise lifted or modified by the SBMA Board of Directors,” Agregado said. He added that to provide tangible financial relief specifically targeted to and in support of SBF workers, SBMA is launching the SBMA e-ID for renewals and temporarily waiving renewal fees for workers who opt for the e-ID instead of a physical card. The Board also approved, through Resolution No. 26-04-1788, the temporary adjustment or reduction of the fee for the renewal of the SBMA ID of SBF workers who opted for a physical card instead of the e-ID format, from ₱200.00 to ₱130.00. This adjustment shall be effective upon receipt of a positive review by the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel. The Board has also approved the ERA4 through Resolution No. 26-04-1784, allowing SBF locators a 50% deferral of payment for monthly lease rental/sublease share billing for a maximum period of six months, starting in May 2026. “Locators will be allowed to pay half of their monthly billing without penalty for late payment for billings issued by the Accounting Department from May to October 2026, provided they have no past-due accounts as of April 30, 2026,” the SBMA official said. The 2026 Middle East war has triggered the largest global oil supply disruption in history, with over barrels per day lost in March due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Fuel prices have skyrocketed—jet fuel doubled in price by April—causing severe shortages, rationing in Asian nations like Sri Lanka and the Philippines, and widespread economic fallout. President Marcos signed Executive Order (EO) No. 110, s. 2026 on March 24, 2026, declaring a State of National Energy Emergency in the Philippines. This move was prompted by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East that threaten global oil supply, and it aims to ensure energy stability, control prices, and protect consumers through a “whole-of-government” approach.

Benguet son appointed as BPPO provincial director

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, Philippines – A native of Benguet was appointed as the new provincial director of the Benguet Provincial Office, in a simple Assumption of Command Ceremony at the Benguet PPO Conference Hall, Camp Major Bado Dangwa, La Trinidad, Benguet, on May 13. PCol. Dionisio D. Bonoy, native of Itogon, Benguet, joyfully received the command flag from PROCAR Regional Director Ericson Dilag, in welcoming the new leadership of the province, witnessed by Governor Melchor Diclas, command groups and chiefs of police of the 13 municipalities of the province. Upon assuming office, Bonoy expressed his commitment to give his full leadership effort to the men and women of Benguet PPO. In his message, Bonoy said he recognized the challenges of leadership and assured the public that he will continue to strengthen collaboration with the Local Government Unit, to ensure fair administration and police-centered services. Dilag also congratulated the new director and expressed confidence that he will fulfill his role of leading the Benguet PPO towards continuous development, improved public services, and effective law enforcement.

DSWD, Nueva Vizcaya government strengthen disaster response

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

By Ben Moses Ebreo BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines (PIA) — The provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Cagayan Valley have signed an agreement for the management of a warehouse facility to further strengthen disaster response and mitigation efforts in the province. The agreement covers the turnover and management of the warehouse facility under a 30-year usufruct arrangement. Under the pact, the facility will be used for the storage and prepositioning of Family Food Packs (FFPs), non-food items, ready-to-eat food packs, and other relief commodities intended for disaster-affected communities. The agreement also allows the DSWD to utilize the warehouse for 30 years without transfer of ownership, ensuring the long-term and sustainable use of the facility in support of disaster response and social protection operations in the province. “This is a big help in strengthening the Department’s logistics capacity and ensuring the timely delivery of humanitarian assistance to disaster-affected families in the province and nearby areas,” DSWD Regional Director Lucia Suyu-Alan said. She also thanked Governor Jose Gambito for the continued support and partnership in advancing the Department’s mandate to protect and promote the welfare of poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged sectors. Last year, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian vowed to strengthen the agency’s logistics capability in the province to bring government services closer to communities in need, especially during disasters and calamities. The warehouse facility is expected to enhance the province’s preparedness and response capability during emergencies and ensure faster delivery of relief assistance to affected residents. (OTB/BME/PIA Nueva Vizcaya)

Lal-lo unveils heritage tourism sites to boost culture, community growth

Region 2, Tourism / Health

Region 2, Tourism / Health / Street Journal

By Oliver T. Baccay LALLO, Cagayan, Philippines (PIA) —- The municipal government of Lal-lo, Cagayan, has officially inaugurated the historic Tocolana Church Ruins and the restored Evangelization Cross, marking a major milestone in the town’s heritage conservation and tourism development initiatives. Mayor Florence Oliver Pascual described the projects as more than cultural landmarks, emphasizing their role in driving local economic growth and creating opportunities for residents. “Tourism is livelihood. It is development translated into opportunities for the communities. This is why we continue to invest in this sector,” Mayor Pascual said, adding that heritage preservation is a ‘forward-thinking investment’ in the municipality’s future. Department of Tourism Cagayan Valley Regional Director Troy Alexander Miano commended the local government’s efforts, describing the initiative as a model for community-based tourism development in the region. Vice Mayor Maria Olivia B. Pascual highlighted the historical and spiritual significance of the restored Evangelization Cross, located in front of the Santo Domingo de Guzman Parish Church. She noted that the cross serves as a powerful reminder of Lal-lo’s rich heritage. Formerly known as Nueva Segovia, the town was one of the first four cities established in the Philippines and the original home of the Our Lady of Piat. “This pilgrimage site stands as an invitation to experience the spirit that continues to sustain our people,” she said. Municipal Tourism Officer Rebecca Bautista said the project reflects the municipality’s commitment to safeguarding its tangible cultural heritage while positioning Lal-lo as a destination for cultural, historical, and adventure tourism. She added that the local government is preparing additional development phases aimed at improving the surrounding landscape and enhancing the overall visitor experience. Meanwhile, Sally Vitug, supervising tourism officer of the province of Cagayan, described the new pilgrimage sites in Lal-lo as a strong manifestation of the local government’s dedication to advancing tourism in the province. She said the initiative aligns with Governor Edgar Alipay’s priority agenda on tourism promotion and economic development. Fr. Antonio Pintucan also expressed gratitude to the local government for bringing the project to fruition. He offered a prayer that the church ruins and Evangelization Cross may continue to inspire hope, peace, healing, and blessings for parishioners and visitors alike. (OTB/PIA Region 2)

BWD calls on public to help protect water supply

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

Baguio folk told to put up more storage tanks BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Baguio Water District (BWD) is urging the public to strengthen water conservation efforts as the water utility intensifies measures to protect and sustain the city’s water supply amid the effects of prolonged dry conditions. BWD General Manager Engr. Salvador M. Royeca emphasized that while the district continues to implement contingency measures and optimizes available water sources, public cooperation remains vital in ensuring water supply throughout the dry season. “Water conservation should not only be practiced during El Niño. It must become part of our daily lifestyle because every drop of water saved helps extend supply availability and protect the environment,” GM Royeca said. Although Baguio City is far from experiencing a total water crisis, Royeca explained that the seasonal decline in water source yield continues to contribute to temporary supply shortages, particularly in identified challenging areas. “We are implementing measures to cushion the effects of the seasonal decline in water sources, although we cannot completely prevent it from occurring. Climate change has long been affecting our environment, and BWD remains committed to pursuing solutions that will help ensure water security for the public,” he added. As part of its ongoing preparations, BWD continues to closely monitor its facilities while fast-tracking the activation and commissioning of additional water sources to augment supply. At present, BWD operates seventy-five deep wells, four spring sources, two rainwater harvesting facilities, and two mini-bulk water suppliers, which collectively contribute to meeting the city’s water requirements. The district also continues to conduct leak detection and repair activities, manage equitable water distribution, and maintain 24/7 monitoring of water systems and facilities to help minimize service disruptions. Despite operational challenges brought about by declining source yield, BWD assured the public that proactive measures are continuously being undertaken to lessen the impact of dry conditions on water service delivery. BWD likewise encourages households and communities to adopt practical water-saving habits, such as promptly fixing or reporting leaks, minimizing unnecessary water use, reusing water whenever possible, and avoiding wasteful consumption. “Preparedness is not solely the responsibility of the water district. Water security is a shared responsibility between the utility and the community it serves,” GM Royeca emphasized. The BWD is also appealing to residents to put up more storage tanks in their respective homes to store water for their daily needs and prevent difficulties in accessing the potable water supply, especially during the summer season when there is a decline in supply from its sources. Royeca said there is no doubt that potable water supply from existing sources, such as deep wells, springs, and other open sources, declines during the summer season because there are no rains to recharge the aquifers. He said residents should start investing in the installation of water tanks and other suitable storage facilities in their homes and ensure that these are filled during their scheduled water supply to last until the next scheduled supply. Royeca reminded the public that BWD has released water supply schedules for residents in the different barangays during the summer season to ensure that the available supply is equitably distributed among consumers, as water balancing is now being employed to help maintain sufficient water supply. The BWD official pointed out that some residents have already invested in larger water tanks in their respective homes to maximize water storage during their supply schedule and ensure enough supply until the next schedule. He also reminded consumers to adopt water conservation measures to prevent wastage. He encouraged residents living in highly elevated areas of the city, who often experience low water pressure and limited supply during the summer season, to consider installing more water storage facilities to ensure the availability of water within their households until the next water supply schedule. Royeca expressed hope that more households will consider putting up additional water tanks and storage facilities in their homes so they can store more water for their daily needs, especially during the summer months.

Aboitiz Renewables equips Pangasinan communities to shield homes, livelihoods from El Niño wildfires

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

As a severe dry spell turns Northern Luzon’s grasslands into tinderboxes, Aboitiz Renewables, Inc., the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower), is putting fire prevention directly into the hands of the communities most at risk. The initiative, known as Project Kabisig sa Kabundukan, provides half a million pesos in specialized firefighting and agricultural equipment to nine People’s Organizations—not to fight fires after they ignite, but to stop them from spreading in the first place. By equipping local residents with the tools to create and maintain strategic firebreaks, the program shifts the strategy entirely: from reactive emergency response to proactive, community-led prevention. This urgency is grounded in hard data as the Bureau of Fire Protection records a significant spike in grassland fires across Pangasinan from 2024 to present, intensified by the prolonged absence of rain. Against this backdrop, Project Kabisig ng Kabundukan empowers local residents to safeguard their own homes, livelihood and the whole community before a single flame takes hold. At the core of this prevention effort is an equipment kit featuring 11 power sprayers, 45 high-capacity knapsack sprayers, 10 motorized grass cutters, and a range of industrial hand tools and personal protective equipment (PPE). These tools enable community members to clear dry vegetation and maintain firelines—strategic strips of land that deprive approaching wildfires of fuel before they can reach homes, farms, or other properties. The difference this makes is felt most directly by the farmers themselves. “When fire breaks out near our homes and farms, we can’t afford to stay idle. In Bugallon, we are surrounded by dry land. With these sprayers and cutters, we now have the capacity to stop a fire before it reaches our community.” Mandy De Leon Palma, 51, member of Aluklukan Village Farmers Association said. During the rainy season when fire risk is low, the same equipment keeps the 28 members of the Aluklukan Village Farmers Association going. The sprayers that protect their land from wildfires are the same ones watering their crops of rice (palay), corn, eggplant, squash, and string beans through the punishing summer heat. Palma describes the project as doing “double duty”: keeping fires at bay while keeping food on the table. “Through this community-driven fire mitigation campaign, we are strengthening the community’s capacity to protect their homes and their livelihood against fire,” says Leo D. Lungay, Vice President and General Manager of Solar and Wind Operations at Aboitiz Renewables. “By working hand-in-hand with local farmers, we ensure that while we generate clean energy for the nation, we also foster a resilient and fire-safe environment for the people of Pangasinan.” Project Kabisig ng Kabundukan reflects the company’s commitment to grow alongside its host communities—ensuring that renewable energy development translates into tangible safety and economic benefits for those living on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

Cebu Pacific Delivers Strong Q1 EBIT Driven by Record Passenger Volume

Business

Business / Street Journal

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading airline, reported a 10% year-on-year increase in total revenue for the first quarter, driven by an increase in seat capacity and sustained passenger demand. Total revenue for the quarter rose to ₱33.3 billion, supported by a 10% increase in seat capacity and sustained passenger demand across both domestic and international markets. CEB carried 7.5 million passengers, up 8% year-on-year, while maintaining a healthy seat load factor of 83.7%, reflecting effective capacity deployment and stable travel demand. Passenger revenue increased 6% to ₱22.5 billion, while ancillary revenue rose 19% to ₱9 billion, driven by continued improvements in ancillary yields. The airline’s cargo business also expanded, with cargo revenue growing 8% year-on-year to ₱1.8 billion, supported by higher widebody capacity. EBITDA rose 26% year-on-year to ₱8.4 billion, while operating income increased 54% to ₱3 billion. Cost discipline and improved operating efficiencies partially offset higher operating costs associated with fleet and capacity expansion. Core profitability improved, with core income before tax increasing to ₱1.3 billion from ₱325 million last year. Quarter-end peso depreciation resulted in non-core foreign exchange losses of ₱1.8 billion, resulting in a net loss of ₱400 million versus net income of ₱466 million in the prior year. Cebu Pacific ended the quarter with 101 aircraft in its fleet and a strong liquidity position, closing March 2026 with over ₱23 billion in cash, providing ample flexibility to manage near-term volatility while supporting strategic initiatives. “Our first‑quarter performance reflects the strength of our network and disciplined capacity deployment,” said Mike Szucs, Chief Executive Officer of Cebu Pacific. “As we navigate a more volatile operating environment amid higher fuel prices, we are taking a more cautious and measured approach focused on margin protection, prudent capacity deployment, and liquidity preservation. Our scale, fleet efficiency, and strong domestic network position us well to navigate near-term uncertainty while continuing to build long‑term value.”

PBBM Leads “Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” Program, Scholars’ Orientation at Clark Picnic Grounds

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

CLARK, Pampanga, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the “Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” Project and the Orientation of Presidential Scholars held at the Clark Picnic Grounds within the Clark Aviation Capital on Thursday, May 14. During the event, President Marcos shared words of encouragement and inspiration with the scholars and beneficiaries, while also overseeing the distribution of assistance under the government’s Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) initiatives. The “Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” Program aims to directly assist low-income families by empowering local government units to implement community-based support programs and essential public services. Held at the newly refurbished Clark Picnic Grounds, the event also highlighted the Clark International Airport Corporation’s (CIAC) ongoing efforts to develop the Clark Aviation Capital and advance its flagship infrastructure and urban renewal projects. “We are honored to welcome President Marcos Jr. and grateful for his recognition of the development initiatives being undertaken here in Clark,” said CIAC President and CEO Jojit Alcazar. As part of the program, 505 barangays in Pampanga and 33 barangays in Angeles City each received ₱200,000 in financial assistance. Under the guidelines of the initiative, half of the allocation, or ₱100,000 per barangay, will be earmarked for scholarship assistance. Each barangay will identify five student-beneficiaries who will receive ₱20,000 each, with priority given to students at risk of dropping out due to financial hardship. Twenty-two Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) presidents attended the ceremonial turnover of checks on behalf of their respective barangays, while around 400 scholars participated in the orientation program. In his message, President Marcos emphasized that the initiative seeks to strengthen barangays by equipping local officials with resources needed to address community needs and improve the delivery of basic services. The administration also continued its food security initiatives through the LGSF Rice Distribution Program, during which 1,500 Aeta beneficiaries received rice assistance. Last month, CIAC formally opened the refurbished Clark Picnic Grounds to the public as part of its Urban Renewal and Heritage Conservation Program, one of the agency’s seven flagship initiatives aimed at transforming Clark into a vibrant, modern, and inclusive public space.

Barangay in Lucena distributes cash fuel subsidy to legitimate tricycle drivers

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

By Danny Estacio LUCENA CITY, Philippines – The Sanguniang Barangay 8 of this city distributed to legitimate tricycle drivers with franchises fuel cash assistance on Wednesday, May 13, in this city. Village chairman Saymon Dy personally released the cash subsidy to the tricycle drivers at the barangay covered court. The fund was allocated by the Barangay council in support of their residents’ tricycle drivers. May this small amount of aid help you in your daily work and continue to support your efforts for your family and community, said Dy. Dy added that the program of the Sangguniang Barangay 8 is part of continued service and assistance to the residents. Recipients expressed thanks to Dy and the members of Sanguniang Barangay for their concern because of high petroleum prices.

Author name: Street Journal

SBMA considers more financial relief to stakeholders