Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

NORTHERN SAMAR, Philippines — In the quiet farms of Northern Samar, abaca is more than just a crop; it is the primary source of income for many Nortehanon families. From planting to stripping the fiber, abaca farming provides food on the table and supports the education of children. Today, the province stands as one of the top abaca producers in Eastern Visayas, supplying nearly 65% of the region’s total output. In 2025 alone, Northern Samar produced 6,766.16 metric tons of fiber, reflecting the strength of an industry built on hard work and dedication. With more than 12,000 hectares of plantations, abaca in Northern Samar has evolved from a traditional crop into a symbol of growth and opportunity. The province has invested in processing centers, farmer training programs, and technical guidance, turning its abaca industry into a hub of livelihood, innovation, and sustainable development that benefits both local communities and the global market. Reinforcing this vision, the Provincial Government through the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO), in coordination with the Silvino Municipal Tourism Office, conducted a site inspection of Silvino Lubos, known for its rich abaca resources, as part of its initiative to establish the proposed Ibabao Abaca Industrial Park. The proposed site spanning 3 to 5 hectares, provides ample space for processing facilities and support infrastructure. Its strategic location and accessibility make it a strong candidate for abaca-based enterprises while also offering opportunities for farm tourism, such as farm visits, product demonstrations, and cultural experiences that benefit the local community. This initiative highlights the importance of inter-agency support in assessing the viability and potential of the project. With strong production output and emerging industrial opportunities, abaca is seen more than an economic crop but also a lifeline that sustains families, strengthens communities, and shapes the future of Northern Samar. From the hands of dedicated farmers to the industrial hubs, the abaca fiber continues to weave opportunities for generations of Nortehanons. Source: PEDIPO

DAR turns over farm equipment to Ifugao farmers’ group

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

IFUGAO, Philippines — The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has turned over P208,000 worth of farm machinery and equipment to a farmers’ organization in Barangay Aduyongan here, aiming to improve productivity and strengthen community-based agriculture. The assistance was granted on March 26 to the Aduyongan Agrarian Reform Farmers Organization (ARFO), an agrarian reform beneficiaries’ group supported by the DAR Provincial Office of Ifugao, led by Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Elpidio C. Santos. Funded under the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Program (CRFPSP) – Sustainable Livelihood Support for Disaster-Affected Areas (SLSDAA), the package includes two rotavators, two power sprayers, two water pumps, three brush cutters, and one pelletizer machine. Distributed equipment is expected to ease manual labor, speed up farm operations, and increase crop yields among members. “Dagituy nga naited ket arapaap tayo nga maaddaan iti gamit tapno iti kasta ket adda usaren tayo nga agtalon. Ket tatta nga addan, ikkan tayo kuma iti importansya dagituy nga equipment. Sapayla kuma ta babaen agituy nga naited nga FMEs ket ag-increase iti produksyon ti ani tayo nga farmers. Tulungan tayo daytuy nga organization tayo tapno ag thrive ken madi nga ag-fail,” said Barangay Captain Jose Balajo. thanked DAR for the support, saying the equipment had long been a goal of the organization. Chief Agrarian Reform Program Officer Leonor C. Bascos reminded the group that government assistance comes with responsibility, stressing the need to properly manage and maintain the equipment. She warned that failure to use the equipment effectively could lead to its reassignment to other beneficiaries. An orientation on the proper use of the machinery was conducted following the turnover to promote sustainability and accountability among members. A memorandum and trust agreement was also signed to formalize the responsibilities of both DAR and the farmers’ group in the use and safekeeping of the equipment. The turnover was witnessed by members of the community, including PARCCOM representatives.

SSS assures OFW members in the Middle East of uninterrupted digital access to benefits

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Social Security System (SSS) today assured its members in the Middle East that they can access benefits and services via digital platforms despite escalating regional conflicts. SSS President Robert Joseph M. de Claro highlighted the My.SSS Portal’s reliability, enabling Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to file benefit claims and loan applications without interruption, provided they meet qualifying conditions. For example, OFWs who were involuntarily separated can avail of unemployment benefit provided they meet the qualifying conditions and certified by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). “Even in these challenging times, our digital infrastructure ensures seamless service delivery,” de Claro said. “Members in the Middle East need not worry; they can manage their accounts safely from anywhere with internet access.” He noted that SSS pensioners in the region can comply with the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) using the recently launched Facial Authentication feature on the SSS website, www.sss.gov.ph. “A standout innovation is the ACOP Facial Authentication with Liveness Check, enabling secure identity verification from smartphones anywhere,” de Claro explained. “It reduces fraud risks and eliminates the need for travel amid the current security situation in the Middle East. These tools were purpose-built to empower OFWs, allowing transactions ‘whenever, wherever’ even in crisis zones.” As of December 2025, there are 1,476,645 OFWs covered with the SSS with 540,018 as active paying members. “We remain committed to supporting our OFWs through innovation and resilience, no matter the circumstances,” de Claro concluded.

Ceremonial signing of Deed of Donation marks a milestone for Quezon PPO

Region 4

Region 4 / Street Journal

QUEZON, Philippines – The Ceremonial Signing of the Deed of Donation with Acceptance for a lot for the Quezon Police Provincial Office (QPPO) was successfully held at the Visitor’s Lounge, Camp BGen Vicente P. Lim, Calamba City, Laguna. The momentous event was graced by PBGen Hansel Marantan, Acting Regional Director of PRO CALABARZON, together with the generous donor, Mrs. Merian H. Reyes, whose invaluable contribution made this milestone possible, alongside PCol Romulo Albacea, Provincial Director of Quezon PPO, and other distinguished guests and police personnel. The donated lot will serve as the future site of a new QPPO building, aimed at enhancing operational capability and strengthening police service delivery in the province of Quezon. Marantan emphasized the importance of community partnership, while Alvacea expressed gratitude to the donor, recognizing the contribution as a vital step toward a more capable and service-oriented police force. The ceremonial signing reflects unity, cooperation, and QPPO’s continued commitment to infrastructure development and effective public service.

Nueva Vizcaya tightens belt as fuel crisis deepens

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

Gov.Gambito warns of ‘Worst-Case Scenario’ By Rachel Magday NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines -‘ Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has ordered stricter austerity measures across the provincial government, warning of a potential “worst-case scenario” as surging fuel prices continue to strain the economy amid tensions in the Middle East. The directive came during an emergency meeting convened Monday with department heads to map out additional interventions to mitigate the deepening impact of the crisis on both government operations and vulnerable communities. Gambito called for disciplined spending and forward planning, urging officials to brace for prolonged economic strain. “Let us assume that we are moving toward a situation of scarcity. To sustain ourselves, we must save so that we have resources when they are most needed,” he said, stressing that the scenario, while extreme, remains possible if geopolitical tensions persist. Savings generated from the intensified austerity program, he said, will be redirected to fund financial assistance for vulnerable sectors, particularly those still recovering from recent calamities. “Many of our farmers are only beginning to recover from the effects of recent typhoons. Now they are confronted with another crisis,” the governor added. As part of intensified cost-cutting efforts, the provincial government is eyeing the suspension of non-essential programs, projects, and activities (PPAs), particularly those that can be deferred without compromising the office performance. These include capability-building initiatives and certain infrastructure projects that may be implemented in phases. From these measures, the province expects to generate savings, including an estimated ₱5 million specifically from the temporary suspension of capability-building activities. The provincial government is also considering scaling down the Grand Ammungan Festival, with proposals to shorten the celebration from five days to a single-day event. The festival has an allocated budget of ₱15 million, part of which could be realigned under the austerity program. Meanwhile, potential savings of around ₱5 million are being eyed from the temporary suspension of selected capability-building programs Earlier, the provincial government implemented a four-day workweek as an initial austerity measure. Meanwhile, financial assistance for the transport sector is currently being processed, with the provincial government allocating ₱18 million for the program. Additional support initiatives are also underway. The “Bagas ti Umili” program, with a budget of ₱17.2 million, is set to be rolled out next month. This is on top of the ₱80-million rice subsidy program funded by the national government and implemented at the provincial level. Support for the agriculture sector will also continue through the provision of agricultural inputs and seed subsidies. “Our people must feel that in the midst of this crisis, there is a government that genuinely cares for them”, Gov Gambito said. “We are dealing with a a very serious problem that affects everyone—perhaps even more severe than COVID-19. By providing assistance, we aim to restore the purchasing power of our citizens and help revive the local economy”.

P31.9-M Illegal drugs seized, 9 drug suspects arrested in Cordillera

CAR

CAR / Street Journal

CORDILLERA, Philippines — The regionwide implementation of intensified anti-illegal drug operations by the Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO CAR) resulted in the seizure of more than P31.9 million worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of nine drug personalities during a weeklong operation conducted from March 23 to 29, 2026. According to reports from the Regional Operations Division of PRO CAR, a total of 34 anti-illegal drug operations were carried out across the region. These included 27 marijuana eradication operations, three buy-bust operations, and four implementations of search warrants. As a result of these operations, 123,405 fully grown marijuana plants were destroyed, along with 57,735 grams of dried marijuana leaves and fruiting tops, while 55.68 grams of shabu were confiscated, with an overall Standard Drug Price of PhP31,987,824.00. In addition, the operations led to the arrest of nine drug personalities, all listed as Street Level Individuals (SLIs). They are now facing charges for violations of Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The most significant accomplishments were recorded in Benguet, where the Benguet Police Provincial Office (PPO) successfully destroyed marijuana plants amounting to PhP25,109,200.00, and in Kalinga, where the Kalinga PPO destroyed PhP6,500,000.00 worth of marijuana. Further, in Baguio City, the Baguio City Police Office confiscated suspected shabu worth of PhP326,120.00 and apprehended seven SLIs, and in Abra, the Abra PPO seized PhP30,328.00 worth of suspected shabu and arrested one SLI. Meanwhile, in Apayao, the Apayao PPO arrested one SLI and confiscated suspected shabu amounting to PhP2,176.00.

Baguio City to rollout P56-M rice assistance for indigent families

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Mayor Benjamin Magalong announced that the city government has received the P56 million fund allocation from the national government for the implementation of the Assistance to Indigent Individuals or Families – Food Assistance/Rice Distribution project intended to provide rice subsidies to indigent families in the city. Magalong directed the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWD) to expediting the grant to qualified families from the different barangays in the city. CSWD Officer Liza Bulayungan said they will prepare the project proposal, purchase request and other documentary requirements to immediately roll out the assistance. Magalong last February thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for including the city as beneficiary of the 2026 Local Government Support Fund-Financial Assistance (LGSF-FA) under the Bagong Pilipinas Rice Program. He assured that the distribution of the assistance in the City will be free from political color and influence noting that in the past, similar program was controlled by influential members of Congress. “No politics, no ‘epal’ this time. Purely assistance from the government to those in need,” Magalong reiterated. He also assured residents that proper guidelines will be followed to ensure fair identification of beneficiaries and accountable use of the funds. Further details on the implementation and distribution schedule will be announced as soon as available. The P56 million allocation for the city is part of the almost P58-billion LGSF allocation for 2026 which aims to provide direct support to needy families and communities nationwide. The amount is downloaded straight to the local government unit in a direct and digitized manner to ensure faster implementation.(Aileen P. Refuerzo-Baguio PIO)

PGLU send off athletes for R1AA extend financial support

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LA UNION, Philippines — Excitement, determination and pride resonated in the hearts of La Union athletes as the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) hosted a grand send-off program on March 27, 2026 at the Speaker Pro Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center. A total of 995 student-athletes will represent the province in various sporting events during the upcoming Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) meet in Candon City from April 5 to 11, 2026, aiming to secure championship titles and bring honor to the province. They were accompanied by their coaches and parents, highlighting the strong support system that fuel their passion and determination. Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega led the program and vowed his full support for the delegation. He then encouraged the athletes to compete with discipline, perseverance, and unity, while promising sustained support for impactful youth programs, with a focus on sports. The Governor also spearheaded the distribution of allowances to the participating athletes to provide them the necessary financial support and adequate resources as they compete in the weeklong regional meet. Joining the Governor, Senator JV Ejercito, Board Members Chary Nisce, Joyce Abuan, Jeferson Fernando, and Gerard Ostrea, as well as Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President Harold Dave Sibuma and City of San Fernando Vice Mayor Pablo Ortega, were also present at the event. The send-off program shone a spotlight on the exceptional prowess and enduring dedication of the athletes, highlighting not only their ability but also the courage, perseverance, and pride that define their journey. The PGLU considers this initiative a vital effort toward empowering the youth, promoting sports, and cultivating discipline and community values among the younger generation.

PPPI and BCDA sign landmark agreement to establish pharma ecozones in Clark

Region 3

Region 3 / Street Journal

NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — The Philippine Pharma Procurement, Inc. (PPPI) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) officially entered into a strategic partnership on March 25, Wednesday, marking a significant leap toward transforming the Philippines into a regional hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and life sciences. The two agencies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to undertake a comprehensive collaborative study for the development of specialized pharmaceutical economic zones. The initiative will explore strategic business opportunities within the Clark Civil Aviation Complex (CCAC) in Pampanga and New Clark City in Tarlac. The signing sets in motion efforts to stimulate industrial development in these areas, particularly in pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical equipment production, cold chain logistics, and research and development. This is in sync with the Marcos administration’s goal of accelerating ecozone development to create jobs, attract investments, expand growth in regions outside Metro Manila, and support inclusive economic progress. Building a “factory-to-port” ecosystem The partnership seeks to address the Philippines’ long-standing reliance on imported medicines by creating a dedicated ecosystem for pharmaceutical manufacturing, research, and distribution. By integrating the world-class logistical advantages of the Clark airport complex with the industrial capacity of New Clark City, the BCDA and PPPI aim to create a seamless “factory-to-port” environment. This collaboration serves as a key expansion of PPPI’s vision for the national pharmaceutical industry. It directly complements PPPI’s ongoing partnership with the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) for the development of the Pharmaceutical Logistics Hub at CIAC. “This signing bridges the gap between logistics and manufacturing,” said PPPI President and CEO Maria Blanca Kim B. Lokin. “By studying the feasibility of specialized pharma-ecozones, we are not just building warehouses; we are creating a high-tech environment where research, production, and global distribution can thrive in one place.” Enhancing healthcare supply chains The study will focus on several high-impact areas designed to attract both global and local investment. It will begin with site identification, locating optimal areas within New Clark City and CCAC for state-of-the-art manufacturing plants and R&D laboratories. It will also emphasize logistical integration, leveraging Clark International Airport to ensure rapid, temperature-controlled transit of pharmaceutical products. Finally, the study will address incentive frameworks, creating a competitive environment to attract global pharmaceutical giants while supporting local drug manufacturers. “Developing pharmaceutical ecozones is a key priority for BCDA in Clark. By positioning Clark as an integral part of the country’s healthcare ecosystem, we are improving access to medicines, fostering innovation, and enhancing the nation’s capacity to meet healthcare needs. At the same time, this initiative supports high-value job creation, attracts investment, and stimulates inclusive and sustainable growth for the Philippines,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang. Economic and social impact Beyond healthcare, the development of these specialized zones is expected to be a major economic driver for Central Luzon. The project is projected to generate thousands of high-value jobs for Filipino scientists, pharmacists, and engineers, further strengthening the country’s specialized workforce.

Author name: Street Journal

Northern Samar weaves livelihood and opportunities through Abaca